By Siddhant Mohan, TwoCircles.net



With the disputed matter of Babri Masjid-Ram Janmbhoomi reaching the Indian Supreme Court, the movement, mediation and talks around it are taking unusual paths. In the latest episode, it was announced that a Ram Rajya Rath Yatra will start on February 13, Shivratri, from Ayodhya, and will conclude in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala on the day of Ram Navami.



A 28-feet large cart built on the proposed model of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will accompany the 41-day long Yatra. The cart, which is being called as Ram Rajya Rath approached Ayodhya on late Saturday from Mumbai.



Kerala-based Sree Ramadasa Mission Universal Society is behind this Yatra which will pass through Varanasi, Mirzapur, Chitrakoot, Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain and Nasik before ending at Ram Das Ashram in Thiruvananthapuram. The Yatra which is passing through the places of religious importance is aimed at gathering public support for the building of Ram Temple in Ayodhya on disputed site.



Sreesakti Saanthananda, the chief priest who is spearheading the Yatra, told media, Our mission is to ensure construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. With this objective, we are taking out the Rath Yatra. It will end at our ashram (Rama Das Ashram) in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala on Ram Navmi.



He further said, Lord Ram had to spend 14 years in exile. The gap between the two Rath Yatras in 2018 and 2019 will be around 14 months, while mentioning that in the year 2019, the Yatra will start again on Shivratri from Rameshwaram and will conclude in Ayodhya on Ram Navami.



However, what is more controversial than a mere Rath Yatra is that Yogi Adityanath, who heads the administration of Uttar Pradesh, has been asked to flag-off the march from Ayodhya on February 13. The confirmation from the CMs office is yet to come but the organizers have high hopes.



Saanthananda said, Besides Yogi, we are also expecting the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. He also expected the presence of several members of Vishwa Hindu Parishad, a Hindu extremist organization, and personnel involved in Ram Janmbhoomi movement in the 90s and 2000s.



Moreover, Vishwa Hindu Parishad is also set to celebrate its annual Ram Mahotsava in Ayodhya in March this year. The 14-day long Ram Mahotsava is scheduled to start on March 14, with a primary objective to intensify the movement along building Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

SUPPORT TWOCIRCLES HELP SUPPORT INDEPENDENT AND NON-PROFIT MEDIA. DONATE HEREBy TCN News



Jahangirabad(Barabanki): The students of Jahangirabad Institute of Technology (JIT) were on cloud nine after receiving their degrees at the third graduation ceremony of the institute run by Jahangirabad Educational Trust (JET).



The ceremony took place on Saturday, February 10 at the picturesque JIT campus, situated at an old fortress in Barabanki, about 40 kilometers from Lucknow.



Uttar Pradesh Minister of Women Welfare, Family Welfare, Maternity & Child Welfare and Tourism, Dr. Rita Bahuguna Joshi was the chief guest of the event.



A total of 59 students were given degrees and 11 students were awarded medals.



Nida Kafeel, student of B.tech. (Mechanical Engineering) bagged gold medal for scoring highest marks, while Shivam Roy, a student of B.tech (Civil Engineering) received a silver medal.



The program started with the recitation of Holy Quran and then JIT Tarana was sung by the students.





The Graduation Day -2018 was declared open by Professor Kailash Narayan Upadhyay, Pro. Vice Chancellor, AKTU, Lucknow.





Congratulating the graduates and their families, guest of honor Prof. Kailash Narayan Upadhyay Pro. Vice Chancellor of AKTU, Lucknow said that JIT Graduands should be called distinguished achievers who have the capacity and capability to change the country and change the world.





Welcoming the distinguished guests and august gathering, Brigadier Saiyad Ahmad Ali, Director, JIT presented a brief report of the College in which he touched upon the key achievements and initiatives that have been taken during the last academic year.He stressed that college pursues innovation with a passion, supports students in their innovative project works.



it is an ideal place for education, he told the gathering.



Guest of Honor Professor Sachchidanand Shukla, RML Awadh University, Faizabad congratulated all the graduate students. Addressing the graduates, Prof. Sachchidanand Shukla motivated them to work hard, be an incessant learner with an ability to critically analyze and handle the complex problems, which an Industry looks forward to in their employees.



Renowned Shia cleric Dr. Kalbe Sadik urged the student to achieve the education. He said that education is the panacea of all problems.



Chief Guest Dr. Rita Bahuguna Joshi, Cabinet Minister, UP Government praised JIT for imparting education in this remote area. She urged all the graduands to work for society.



We have the oldest civilization and you should be proud of it she added.



She said that UP government has started many startup programs and called investor to invest in UP for many project for job creation.



Manzoor Ghori, Founder Chairman, Jahangirabad Educational Trust Group of Institutions (JETGI) in his address said that education and training are key to success and impressed upon the graduates to stay involved in education-related activities.



At the end Dr. K M Rafi, principal JIT thanked all the guest and dignitaries. The Graduation ceremony was declared closed by Pro Vice-Chancellor, AKTU, Lucknow followed by the national anthem.



Jahangirabad Institute of Technology (JIT) under the umbrella of Jahangirabad Educational Trust Group of Institutions (JETGI) is promoted by a number of professionally successful Indians who have settled abroad and have come together to promote higher education with leadership skills to give back to the community.



Besides Engineering in Computer Science, Civil, Electronic, Electrical and Mechanical, JIT also offers MBA course. There is a separate Media Institute (JMI) that offers diploma and certificate courses in media and has the state of art studios and infrastructure.By Asrarul Haque Jeelani for TwoCircles.net

On Wednesday, a BJP MP Vinay Katiyar said that Muslims should not live in India and they should either go to the Pakistan or Bangladesh. This was not the first time someone has said Go to Pakistan to the Indian Muslims and given the current political climate in the country, it is unlikely to be the last. All these statements have one thing in common: Go to Pakistan might have been said in the context of political scenario and contemporary burning issues. The statement has been different, but the meaning has similar grounds. The phrase Go to Pakistan does not signify that the Muslims should go to Pakistan in reality. The main agenda of such statements is the creation of Mini Pakistan (Ghettos) within India. For instance, the Mumbai riots aftermath of Babri Masjid demolition in 1992-1993 and the Gujarat riot in 2002 created Mumbra-Kausa and Juhapura respectively. Many such examples of the creation of ghettos have been seen and there has been an influx of Muslim to the ghettos.

The incidents in Kasganj, Uttar Pradesh around Republic Day is a recent example of communal violence where the Muslim-dominated area was targeted with the slogan of Pakistan Murdabad as if that area is a part of Pakistan and Muslims are Pakistan-loving. From this incident, it is clear that the Muslim-dominated area has been seen as Mini Pakistan in right-wing ideology and it would be easy to ignite the communal violence by the tool of slogans, rumours or nationalism (Hindu Rashtra). Who created Pakistan: Jinnah, Gandhi, Nehru, Muslim League or the right-wing ideologues? The answer is not perfectly clear and has a different version of theory but the reason of creation of a mini-Pakistan within different cities of the country is not other than the right wing with the tool of communal violence, hatred, the culture of suspicion and creation of pushing factors to ghettos. But the question is why they want Mini Pakistan?

The segregated Jewish settlement from the rest of the population in the western world was called as Ghettos but in modern time every city has segregated informal settlements where poor and most backward community reside. Louis Wirth, a 20th-century American sociologist writes, It may be regarded as a form of accommodation through which a minority has effectually been subordinated to a dominant group. The ghetto exhibits at least one historical form of dealing with a dissenting minority within a larger population, and as such has served as an instrument of control.

The creation of ghettos of a particular community means the invention of the instrument of control, easy to subordinate and keep surveillance on the whole community. The pull factors of safety, security, similar feelings, homogenous culture along with push factors of social, political, legal pressure and systematic discrimination concentrated the minority in a small portion of land. In case of India, densely populated Muslim locality, pale of settlement has been seen in almost every city. Most of them are unauthorised, denied basic amenities and most importantly labelled as Mini Pakistan.

Go to Pakistan is a push factor of creating Ghettos within cities where minorities are denied of basic amenities and left to live in inhuman condition, inadequate spaces which further lead to exclusion and give them a second-grade citizen status of the country as it is the right wings prime objective. The process of othering, segregation, and isolation of one community is to understand them as second citizens and to deny the rights. Historically the persecution of one community has not been done with scattered population but to concentrated minority community thus the creation of ghetto is one step ahead towards the inhuman killings.

Go to Pakistan also means to push them to their spaces to purify the regions dominated by Hindu as Muslims are impure, beef eater and Malechh. The term Malechh denotes unclean and dirty. Yogi Aditya Nath has done Sudhi Karan before taking the chair of CM in U. P. In a recent incident, the members of Bharatiya Janata Party Yuva Morcha have sprinkled cow urine on the stage where actor Prakash Raj has spoken. The concept of purity and impurity has prevailed in our society, enshrined into our hierarchal society, unequal social stratification. The concept of purity and impurity has changed its forms but has not been eradicated from our social mentality. The consideration of purity and impurity is also a tool to control and push someone from the shared spaces.

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Go to Pakistan is not only a slogan. It is an attempt to create a conducive environment where hatred and fear can prevail which further leads to the push factor for the minority community. The final result is to create Mini Pakistan (ghetto) within India and to alienate one community from another.

The author is a student of M.Phil at the Jawaharlal University, DelhiAlex Masters, tragically died in 2015 by choking on his bottle of milk that his Godmother had propped up in his car seat, and then fell asleep an inquest heard.

Claire Sawyer used a blanket to prop the little boys bottle up, she then fell asleep on the sofa. When she woke, he dialled 999 and the baby was taken to the hospital.

History of drug abuse

The post-mortem found that the baby had inhaled milk into his lungs after being looked after by his Godmother overnight at Sawyers flat. She had a history of drug abuse.

Not charged

Alexs Mother was unaware that he was sleeping in a car seat at Sawyers flat.

The cause of death could not be determined as other injuries were found that could not be accounted for. As a result, Claire Sawyer was not charged.

It isnt illegal

It is not illegal to feed your baby in this way, but the Senior Lincolnshire Coroner Stuart Fisher has issued a warning to parents to supervise the baby if you choose to feed them using this method of propping up the bottle.

What is bottle propping?'

It is where you lean the bottle against a pillow/ cushion or object and the baby can feed themselves from it without you needing to hold them or the bottle to do so. When looking on parenting forums and threads such as Mumsnet it is a very controversial method with many warning of the risks.

Choking risk

Feeding your baby like this increases their chances of choking according to Share Care, especially if they are unsupervised. The liquid will continue to come out of the bottle until it is empty even if the baby does not want it to. The baby could end up breathing the milk in as it is more likely the baby will be laying down and so the milk could go down the babys trachea rather than the esophagus.

Infection

With a continuous flow of liquid, it could begin to pool in the babys ear leading to infection. If the baby is not supervised then it is unlikely they will be given the chance to burp, leading to wind problems.

This method is not featured in the NHS Bottle feeding guidelines or information, and although there are safe prop devices on the market many warn against the use of them.

It can be a world of conflicting advice when dealing with infant feeding. What some will deem acceptable and safe, others will be aghast at. The multiple arguments for breast vs bottle, when and what to wean older babies with, what bottles to use, can be confusing for parents.

Hands-free

Although the cause of Alex Masters death could not be found, the coroner has publicly warned against the dangers of using this method to feed your baby. While it does allow you to be hands free and not have to hold the baby and bottle it looks as though there are far more risks that outweigh that benefit. The lack of bonding time could also come into play when leaving babies to feed themselves.

Have you, or do you know someone who has used this method? What was your experience? What age do you feel a baby could feed themselves unsupervised, if ever?

We would love to hear your thoughts via our Child Health Channel.[February 12, 2018] PCCW Global and Youtap collaborate to deliver innovative mobile money payments acquiring and processing solution

HONG KONG and SINGAPORE, Feb. 13, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- PCCW Global, the international operating division of HKT, Hong Kong's premier telecommunications service provider, has entered into an agreement with Youtap, a leader in contactless mobile money payments processing for emerging markets that has been rigorously tested in emerging markets around the world. Under the agreement, PCCW Global will expand distribution of Youtap Pay and Youtap merchant acquisition services as a complement to HKT's Tap & Go payment solution. Youtap solutions have been specially developed to enable closed-loop payment, agency banking and disbursement services in-store, on the street and on the go. The agreement will allow PCCW Global to provide both existing and new clients with payment processing and merchant acquisition services designed to support customers transacting in a variety of different ways. Through this collaboration, carriers, MNOs and financial institutions served by PCCW Global will enjoy the benefits of an enhanced secure mobile payment processing platform which has been tested in some of the most challenging environments in the world. Communications service providers around the world are discovering the benefits of providing mobile payment solutions, and the collaboration adds an extremely flexible, scalable and easy-to-deploy single global payment platform to PCCW Global's existing service offering. Mr. Craig Price, Senior Vice President, International Projects, PCCW Global, said, "Our collaboration with Youtap, in combination with our existing deployment of HKT's Tap & Go platform, will enable PCCW Global customers to further expand their offer of an end-to-end payments solution regardless of the preferred method of payment. Our expanded mobile payment solutions are now uniquely positioned to overcome all the challenges associated with making contactless payments, and we expect the demontrable ease of operation which this new relationship brings to our offering will deliver real benefits to our customers around the world."



Mr. Chris Jones, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Youtap, said, "We believe that our platforms and expertise in emerging markets complement the reach, networks, and pedigree of PCCW Global and their Tap & Go solution. In leveraging our combined knowledge in the payments industry, we can deliver unparalleled experiences for both merchants and consumers alike." About PCCW Global

PCCW Global is the international operating division of HKT, Hong Kong's premier telecommunications service provider, which is majority-owned by PCCW Limited. Covering more than 3,000 cities and 150 countries, the PCCW Global network supports a portfolio of integrated global communications solutions which include Ethernet, IP, fiber and satellite transmission solutions, international voice and VoIPX services, managed network & security services and our expanding "as-a-service" solutions including OTT video and Unified Communications. PCCW Global is headquartered in Hong Kong, and maintains regional centers in Belgium, China, France, Greece, Japan, Korea, Singapore, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. To learn more about PCCW Global, please visit www.pccwglobal.com. About HKT HKT (SEHK: 6823) is Hong Kong's premier telecommunications service provider and leading operator in fixed-line, broadband and mobile communication services. It meets the needs of the Hong Kong public and local and international businesses with a wide range of services including local telephony, local data and broadband, international telecommunications, mobile, and other telecommunications businesses such as customer premises equipment sales, outsourcing, consulting, and contact centers. HKT offers a unique quadruple-play experience in Hong Kong delivering media content on its fixed-line, broadband Internet access and mobile platforms jointly with its parent company, PCCW Limited. HKT also provides a range of innovative and smart living services beyond connectivity to make the daily lives of customers more convenient, whether they are at home, in the workplace, or on the go. For more information, please visit www.hkt.com. About Youtap Youtap headquartered in Singapore is a global provider of contactless mobile payments processing, merchant acquiring and financial services software enabling mobile money and stored value wallet customers to tap and pay at any point of sale using any device. Youtap's secure NFC and QR code solutions support payment acceptance for contactless and non-contactless cards, NFC tags and wearables, and NFC phones. Youtap supports merchants, banks, MNOs and payment service providers by incorporating loyalty programs and other responsive functionalities that benefit both consumers and merchants. Website: https://www.youtap.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/youtap-limited

Twitter: https://twitter.com/youtap2pay SOURCE Youtap

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]Over the last week, one of the biggest headlines has involved the Domestic Violence allegations against Rob Porter, the now former White House staffer. After Donald Trump decided to cast doubt on the accusers, Kellyanne Conway was forced to come to his defense.

Conway on Trump

It was just last week when White House staffer Rob Porter resigned from his position after his alleged history of domestic violence resurfaced. It was first reported in the Daily Mail when Porter's two ex-wives spoke up about the alleged abuse, with one releasing an image of a black eye that reportedly occurred during the attack.

Porter has denied the allegations, but decided that he would step down in order to address the issues head on. In response, Donald Trump praised the work Porter had done for his administration, before later lashing out on Twitter to blame unfounded allegations for the downfall of many men.

Does Pres. Trump believe Rob Porter was falsely accused of domestic abuse? White House Counselor to the President @KellyannePolls says he believes "you have to consider all sides. He has said this in the past about incidents that relate to him as well." #ThisWeek pic.twitter.com/kPZSf88SJl  This Week (@ThisWeekABC) February 11, 2018

This issue was discussed during the February 11 edition of "this week" on ABC with Presidential Counsel Kellyanne Conway.

After host George Stephanopoulos brought up the "pattern" of behavior Donald Trump has displayed with women, Conway was quick to push back, even rhetorically asking why she was still in the White House if Trump was guilty of the allegations. "I, frankly, wouldnt work there if that were not the case," Conway said.

"I could be dozens of other places for lots of money," Kellyanne Conway went on to point out, before asking, "Why would someone like me and many other women be there?" Conway went on to describe Trump as an "excellent boss for women" and for "working mothers," while claiming he has "come to the aid of many women privately." Despite this, Conway did go on to personally admit during a CNN interview that she was "horrified" by the reported abuse and that she has "no reason not to believe" the allegations.

Instant backlash

In response to Kellyanne Conway's remarks, it didn't take long before the critics fired back. "Why do you even have her on the program? She doesn't know anything and lies or knows better and lies anyway. She is paid to obscure with alternate facts," one tweet read.

When he introduced her @KellyannePolls on the show I said, Why Why Why? She is such a waste of time. Wish she would just disappear into a hole somewhere far far away.  Renee Roveal (@RMRoveal) February 11, 2018

Why in the world do you interview this woman? Poor, poor reporting. Just stop. We know the answer to this question. Please stop giving these horrible people air time.  Carmen Oldenburg (@CarmenOldenburg) February 11, 2018

"No, Abuser in Chief doesnt care whether Porter is guilty of the allegations and wouldnt have fired him, had he not resigned," a follow-up tweet added.

"Sorry, I know it's not right but she might be more believable with a bag over her head rather than looking like a battered woman defending Trump," an additional tweet noted.

We can't believe a word that comes out of @KellyannePolls mouth. She tries to feed the public alternate facts. She is dishonest and cannot be trusted.  robert massenburg (@RobertThemass) February 11, 2018

By now when you bring on air that fog machine named Kellyanne  because that's who they offered  you are committing a hostile act against your viewers' understanding in order to protect your own professional conceit of even-handedness.  Sue Walker (@SueWalkercandis) February 11, 2018

Why is this woman ever on air? Claims she makes are consistently proven untrue within 24hours. She has zero credibility  Nancy Dooley (@NancyDooley16) February 11, 2018

"Why is this woman ever on air?

Claims she makes are consistently proven untrue within 24 hours. She has zero credibility," a Twitter user wrote. "We can't believe a word that comes out of Kellyanne's mouth. She tries to feed the public alternate facts. She is dishonest and cannot be trusted," yet another social media user added.On Saturday, two police officers were killed after engaging in a shootout with a suspect in Ohio. After Donald Trump gave his thoughts, some weren't impressed with his response.

Just spoke to @JohnKasich to express condolences and prayers to all for the horrible shooting of two great police officers from @WestervillePD. This is a true tragedy!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 11, 2018

Trump on Ohio shooting

Police officers Antony Morelli and Eric Joering responded to a reported domestic incident in Westerville, Ohio on Saturday night. A call was placed to 911 by a woman who was heard crying before hanging up, alerting dispatch to send the officers to the scene.

Once Morelli and Joering arrived, a shootout occurred, with Quentin Smith, described as a "violent criminal" by reports, shot the officers as his wife called 911 to inform them about what took place. Smith has since been taken into custody, according to Westerville Police Chief Joe Morbitzer. In addition, Smith had previously been convicted of burglary back in 2008 and was illegally possessing the gun he used during the shootout in question.

UPDATE: Two Westerville police officers were killed in

a shooting today. https://t.co/EVw0m5WU3O  Columbus Dispatch (@DispatchAlerts) February 10, 2018

On Sunday afternoon, Donald Trump addressed the incident during a tweet. "Just spoke to John Kasich to express condolences and prayers to all for the horrible shooting of two great police officers from WestervillePD," Trump tweeted out.

"This is a true tragedy!" he concluded. As expected, Trump's sympathies didn't go over well as many who oppose the current commander in chief decided to fire back, making note that there was still no mention of gun control.

Instant reaction

After Donald Trump posted his tweet about the police shooting in Ohio, the critics wasted no time giving thoughts of their own.

"Now do one for the white man who did the mass shooting in Las Vegas who's victims are still in the hospital or do only do them for illegals?" one tweet went on to read.

Impeach Trump  Reda Morjani (@RedaMor_) February 11, 2018

The real tragedy is the American people have to hear statements about real tragedies like this from YOU.#Resign #NationalDisgrace   Global Echo  #Resist // #SomethingBurger // (@EhhcoG) February 11, 2018

Your presidency is going he true tragedy. #resign #dotard  Melissa G Leitzan (@GLeitzan) February 11, 2018

"A fabulous leader!

Just ask Stormy Daniels, Melania and Barron," one Twitter user wrote. "Hey, remember when you wrongly claimed a Border Patrol agent was killed by an illegal immigrant (turns out, his death was an accident) and you insisted on stricter immigration measures and your Wall? It's weird how you don't demand gun control when police are killed by guns," a follow-up tweet noted.

Like he said last year, its his thoughts that count .   Alma (@glammaa1959) February 11, 2018

This summer a guy in Vegas wounded 517 people and killed 37. Talk about it.  MJG  (@MJGWrites) February 11, 2018

Hey, remember when you wrongly claimed a Border Patrol agent was killed by an illegal immigrant (turns out, his death was an accident) and you insisted on stricter immigration measures and your Wall?



It's weird how you don't demand gun control when police are killed by guns...  Pe Resists (@4everNeverTrump) February 11, 2018

"This summer a guy in Vegas wounded 517 people and killed 37.

Talk about it," an additional tweet stated. "Any action on guns? Or still hoping thoughts and prayers will shield the people you are supposed to be leading?" a social media user wondered. The negative reaction continued as the opposition to the entire Trump administration heats up.Over the last week, Donald Trump has been forced to deal with various issues that have negatively impacted his administration. In response, the president decided to deflect the blame onto his top target.

So many positive things going on for the U.S.A. and the Fake News Media just doesnt want to go there. Same negative stories over and over again! No wonder the People no longer trust the media, whose approval ratings are correctly at their lowest levels in history! #MAGA  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 11, 2018

Trump and Twitter

In recent days, the White House has been facing an onslaught of criticism due to a variety of issues.

From the drop in the stock market, to the latest revelations in the Russian investigation, to the resignation of two White House staffers over alleged domestic violence. In regards to now ex-White House staffer Rob Porter, Trump came under fire for brushing off the domestic violence reports, and instead decided to cast doubt on the accusers while praising Porter's time in the administration. Trump doubled down on his defense of Porter in a recent tweet where he blamed false allegations for ruining the careers and lives of many individuals.

This. Precisely this. "Because Trump himself is accused of assaulting dozens of women, theyve had to lower the bar for male behavior so that even he can meet it." https://t.co/11RU7e47mm  Ezra Klein (@ezraklein) February 9, 2018

Over the weekend, the headlines were dominated by the Rob Porter story, as well as the failing stock market and Trump's decision not to release the Democratic response to the infamous Nunes memo that many believe could debunk alleged falsehoods made by Rep.

Devin Nunes. In a tweet on February 11, Trump let off some steam. "So many positive things going on for the U.S.A. and the Fake News Media just doesnt want to go there," he tweeted.

"Same negative stories over and over again!" Donald Trump went on to add. "No wonder the People no longer trust the media, whose approval ratings are correctly at their lowest levels in history!" he concluded, despite the irony that the president's approval numbers are hovering around just 40 percent.

Backlash follows

After sending out his tweet, Donald Trump was bombarded with criticism. "Whatever you say, money laundering traitor," one tweet read.

You wish Fat Boy. America KNOWS your fake news is FAKE EXCUSE. Tick Tock Tick Tock   David Larry (@TheBlackSwan54) February 11, 2018

Whatever you say, money laundering traitor.   Nick Fury (@fury0810) February 11, 2018

"You wish Fat Boy.

America KNOWS your fake news is FAKE EXCUSE. Tick Tock Tick Tock," yet another tweet read. "Youre just making up lies as you go along," an additional tweet stated. "Tell Fox News to start telling the truth then. Problem solved!" a follow-up tweet noted. "Stock market crash, opioid epidemic, climate change, ballooning national debt. Yeah it's wonderful - and you are doing nothing about it!" a social media user wrote.

Stock market crash, opioid epidemic, climate change, ballooning national debt. Yeah it's wonderful - and you are doing nothing about it!  JDS (@jds9973) February 11, 2018

All negative stories seem to come from you. I don't trust you any farther than I can throw you.  LogicRules (@BigTexasSkyBlue) February 11, 2018

"All negative stories seem to come from you. I don't trust you any farther than I can throw you," a Twitter user added. The backlash continued as Trump's relationship with the media is showing no signs of improvement.Conservatives have always had mixed feelings toward SpaceXs Elon Musk. On the one hand, they tend to gravitate toward swashbuckling entrepreneurs who push the technological envelope while making lots of money. On the other hand, some on the right feel a little queasy about Musks dependence on government subsidies. His high profile schmoozing with then President Barack Obama in 2010, around the time that leader had killed NASAs deep space exploration program, did not help.

So how does the right wing feel about Musk launching a car into interplanetary space with the Falcon Heavy?

While some on the left sneered at it, even a writer for the Planetary Society, many on the right are pretty stoked by the launch.

Praising Elon Musk

The Washington Free Beacon, one of the national capitals three right-leaning newspaper, published a piece entitled, artfully, In Praise of Elon Musk. The piece noted that while President Barack Obama diminished the cause of space exploration when he canceled the Bush-era Constellation program, Musk and fellow business tycoons seem to have taken up the slack. The article also took up the theme of how nimble commercial space firms are running rings around the government. Where government regulation, bureaucracy, risk-aversion, inertia, and entropy limited the horizon of manned space exploration, the private space industry is abuzz with innovation, efficiencies, and entrepreneurship. The WFB also suggested that Musk may have burnished the sagging reputation of Silicon Valley, rocked recently by accusations of political correctness.

The National Review chimes in

The National Review, the venerable magazine founded by the late William F. Buckley, has run a series of positive articles heaping praise on Elon Musks Falcon Heavy feat. David French noted how the launch provided some much needed positive news and provided Americans with new hope that space exploration would, to use the well-worn phrase, make America great again.

Kevin Williamson noted that people like Elon Musk are making space exploration less expensive, a good thing in his view, making missions to Mars and a return to the moon within reach.

The New York Post heralds the birth of a new space race

The New York Post, the citys more right-leaning newspaper, praised the flight of the Falcon Heavy as well.

The paper noted that the launch might presage the start of a new space race, driven this time more by commercial interests than nationalistic pride, though one should not count the latter motive out.

The bottom line

Elon Musk has won a slew of friends on the conservative side of the political spectrum that hitherto had looked upon him with some skepticism. Will he be able to parlay that new support into contracts and support for his space-based ambitions? Stay tuned.Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site.

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Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349Hassan Rouhani has said too many people have been alienated by Irans ruling establishment and proposed holding a referendum in an attempt to heal divisions in a country recently struck by an outburst of public discontent. As The Guardian writes in an article "Hassan Rouhani proposes referendum to heal Iran's divisions", Iranian president said: When the revolution took place, we were all together and there were plenty of passengers on the train of the revolution; some of them wanted to get off the train themselves, and we got some of them off the train, whom we didnt have to.

Rouhani, who is at odds with hardliners, was speaking a month after protests over economic grievances spread spontaneously to as many as 80 cities, taking on a political dimension. The unrest resulted in the deaths of at least 25 protesters and jailing of more than 3,000 people, many of whom remain in prison.

Divisions in Irans political system have deepened and the opposition leaders Mir Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi remain under house arrest. The leader of the countrys reformist movement, Mohammad Khatami, faces severe restrictions on his political movements and even the former hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has become outspoken about the state of the repression. Today, we need everyone, including principlists, reformists, moderates and everyone who recognises the constitution, for the countrys development and progress, Rouhani said. The constitution should be our point of reference  If we disagree on some issues, we should refer to the article 59 [the constitutional article on holding referendums]. Rouhanis speech was largely aimed at his domestic audience, but he also talked about regional issues without directly addressing the confrontation over the weekend between the Syrian army and Iranian-backed forces, and Israeli fighter jets. The moderate cleric dismissed concerns over Irans regional behaviour and credited his country for the retreat of Islamic State. On the 2015 nuclear deal, under threat from Donald Trump, Rouhani said: The Americans have so far attempted to eliminate this important regional and international agreement, but to date, they have failed. Today, I declare that our nation is committed to its pledges until the day that the other side does so.Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's statement about the need to return Azerbaijani people to their historical lands in Yerevan, Zangezur and Geycha caused a wide response both inside and outside Azerbaijan. The political side of this statement is quite obvious: against the backdrop of Armenia's maximalist position in the negotiations on the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Azerbaijan is also stiffening its rhetoric. It would be naive to believe that Armenia's expansionism, elevated to state policy, faced by every country in the region in one form or another, will not provoke a reaction at some stage.

It is interesting, however, to watch reactions to the historical side of the issue. For example, a publicists, who obviously has nothing to do with historical science, wrote that Aliyev's words about Yerevan as a historically Azerbaijani land are scientifically false. The author either does not suspect, or tries to hide, that the lie is the negation of this fact, which was recognized even by the Armenian historians. For example, by George Bournoutian, who wrote that until the beginning of the XIX century the share of the Armenian population barely formed 20 percent of Yerevan and even after the mass immigration of Armenians and the parallel outcome of the Muslim population, Muslims remained the majority in the city until the beginning of the 20th century.

Count Ivan Paskevich twice noted in his notes that in 1828 three quarters of the population of the newly-conquered Erivan region were Mohammedans (in ethnic terms clearly not Arabs, not Indonesians, not Persians and not Uighurs, but Azerbaijanis were these 'Mohammedans' in the Erivan Khanate). It turns out that both Bournoutian and Paskevich (incidentally, a contemporary of the demographic composition of the Erivan region) "lied", since they dared to bring to us the result of the study of historical sources (in the case of Bournoutian) and their own observation (in the case of Paskevich). The "lie" was the almost ubiquitous Azerbaijani toponymy throughout the territory of the former Azerbaijani Khanate, on the basis of which the Armenian demographic majority had been later created by the efforts of the tsarist government within a century after its conquest.

In parallel, there was a process of armenization of the entire toponymy, which then continued during the Soviet era and ended with the final expulsion of the remains of the indigenous Azerbaijani population in 1988. And of course, it was just a "dream".

And, of course, the 1897 first census data was "invented" by the Azerbaijani population, according to which, even after 70 years of intensive immigration of the Armenian population from Persia and the Ottoman Empire to Erivan and the parallel outflow of the Muslim ("Caucasian-Tatar", ie Azerbaijani) population, the latter continued to be the majority in Erivan and Zangezur counties.

Perhaps the census workers were "secret agents" of the non-existed, but already conceived by "insidious and far-sighted" Azerbaijanis, which were hired to "distort" data in order that in 120 years their president could finally complete the century-long operation to "mislead" world public opinion on the basis of census data "falsified" in advance!

It is very symptomatic that the Armenian pseudo-historians, realizing that the "ancient Armenian" cities of Erivan, Khankendi and Shusha were founded not so long ago and not by Armenians, have started inventing absolutely ridiculous tales about the fact that Yerevan is older than Rome, and that "ancient" settlements (of course, "Armenian" ones) existed on the site of these cities long before Azerbaijani rulers centuries later "re-established" their new settlements on the ruins of the once existed "Armenian" cities on the same (!) place (as if there were no other places and it was "difficult" to build a new city in another place. For example, the myth that some centuries earlier there was a city in the place of Khankendi, of course an "Armenian" one, was first expressed by the President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan during his populist speech in Goris in 2010. As for Shushi, there also were articles of science fiction historians, as if the archeology of the city testifies that the founder of Panah was "not the first." As for Yerevan, there was a "stunning" thesis, against which even Yevgeny Petrosyan's jokes seems funny: as if it was not founded by Revan-Gul Khan (hence the name of the city), but there was the city of Erebuni in its place many thousands of years ago. Of course, these pseudo-historians prefer not to speak about the fact that the ruins of Urartian Erebuni are many kilometers from today's Yerevan (that is, there is no "hereditary" continuity) and ethnic Armenians had nothing to do with ethnic Urartians. But attempts to "de-Azerbaijaniize" the origin of these cities by searching deep underground for traces of the existence of some mythical (and by default "Armenian") settlements long before their foundation are taken seriously and assiduously.

I do not recall that those outraged with Aliyev's statement were just as indignant immediately after Sargsyan's speech in Goris and the publication of articles about the "thousand-year" history of young and founded by the Azerbaijani rulers, Shusha and Irevan, calling these theses "nonsense". From a scientific point of view, the denial of the fact of Erivan's establishment by the Azerbaijani ruler Revan-Gul Khan and Shusha's - by Panah Khan, as well as the fact of the Turkic demographic majority until the moment of the transfer of Erivan to Armenia in 1918 by the founders of the Republic of Azerbaijan and up to Susha's capture by the Armenian invaders in 1992 is complete incompetence. What might have been "nonsense" for someone, is a sad page of the history for millions of western Azerbaijanis, whose roots go to Zangezur, Daralayaz, Goychu and Erivan. The bones of ancestors left to lie in a lost homeland are not nonsense and myth for them. As well as the Azerbaijani fortress Erivan, completely erased from the face of the earth, on the site of which the modern city of Yerevan was built during the Soviet era, in which it is impossible to find any building, except for the Blue Mosque, built more than 100 years ago.

I do not know how much the Armenian side will benefit from this, but the Azerbaijani side will certainly not be the injured party. History, which, alas, was "raped" by everybody who can, and which will be clogged with another myth, will be the major sufferer from the rooting of pseudo-facts.A total of 1369 Syrian Kurdish Peoples Protection Units (YPG) have been killed since the launch of Turkeys Operation Olive Branch in the northern Syrian district of Afrin, the Turkish military said in a statement.

The Turkish General Staff said overnight airstrikes had destroyed 15 targets used as shelters, as well as ammunition depots and weapon pits.

According to information gathered from the region, 103 militants were killed on February 11, the Hurriyet Daily reported.

On January 20, Turkey launched the Operation Olive Branch along with elements of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) to clear YPG militants from the Afrin district of northwestern Syria.Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolence to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the recent An-148 plane crash near Moscow.

"I am deeply shocked by the news of the plane crash in the Moscow Region, which has claimed many lives," President Aliyev said in his letter.

On behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on his own behalf, he expressed his sincere condolences to Vladimir Putin, the families and friends of the deceased and the entire people of RussiaRussian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov said that Russia urges to avoid the escalation of tensions in the region after Israel's strikes on Syria.

"We call on everyone to be calm, to prevent a very dangerous escalation in countries of the region," RIA Novosti cited Bogdanov as saying.

The statement comes several days after Israeli Defense Forces released footage allegedly showing the downing of an Iranian drone by an Israeli attack helicopter and the subsequent airstrike against it on the Syrian soil.

The Israeli attack prompted response fire from the Syrian air defense systems. In the second wave of the attack, the Israeli forces struck 12 targets in Syria, including Syrian air defense batteries and Iranian military facilities, the country's Defense Forces (IDF) said.Shell, Total and British Petroleum are adjusting their operations to match the realities of an under-$60-barrel price in the long run, according to a new Fitch Ratings report.

The European oil majors are lowering dividends and spending to minimize breakeven points last year, Oil Price reported.

"The companies all generated neutral-to-positive free cash flows in 2017 after dividends, before mergers and acquisitions," according to their recently released annual results.

"Developments in their credit quality will largely depend on their ability to preserve financial flexibility, as oil prices are likely to remain volatile.

The Brent barrel averaged $55 last year, allowing the companies free capital to range from -$0.50 to $6.60 a unit, depending on the company. The upward shift is a major improvement compared to previous years.

Even when barrel costs stood above $100majors expenditures would cause the capital spread to vary between -$14 and -$3 per unit. The market crash has forced large corporations to cut excessive spending by refocusing efforts in the downstream and petrochemical sectors and enforcing scrip dividends.

"This should allow integrated oil companies to generate neutral-to-positive free cash flows through the cycle under our price deck assumptions, which supports their current ratings," Fitch said.

"We doubt that current prices will be sustained. Our base case is that the Brent price will fall from current levels and stabilize in the $50-60 per barrel range, as US shale production is set to increase further," Financial Tribune cited the report as saying.

BP expects the Brent barrel to reach a $50 average price in 2018 and reduce further to $35-40 by 2021, before a further nosedive to $30.Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili expressed his sadness over Russia's An-148 plane crash.

"My condolences to Russian people over the tragic passenger plain crash in Russia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families," the President wrote on his Facebook page.

Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili also offered his condolences to the Russian people earlier, Agenda.ge reported.

"Deeply saddened by the news of plane crash near Moscow. On behalf of the Government of Georgia, I express my condolences to the Russian people, and to the families and friends of the victims," Kvirikashvii said.

The Saratov Airlines regional jet disappeared from radar screens a few minutes after departing from Domodedovo Airport.

According to the Russian Transport Minister Maxim Sokolov no one out of 65 passengers and six crew members has survived the crash.OPEC said it expects demand for oil to grow faster than it originally expected in 2018, but the organization also sees supplies from beyond the producer group surging this year, driven by rising US output.

The cartel said it now sees non-OPEC production growing by 1.4 million barrels per day, up 250,000 bpd from its estimate in its last monthly report. It expects nations outside OPEC to pump a total of 59.26 million bpd this year, 320,000 bpd higher than its last forecast.

"According to the most recent assessment, the steady oil price recovery since summer 2017 and renewed interest in growth opportunities has led to oil majors catching up in terms of exploration activity this year, both in the shale industry and offshore deep water," OPEC said.

On the demand side, OPEC said it now expects the world's appetite for oil to grow by 1.59 million barrels a day, up 60,000 bpd from last month's forecast. That would put total global oil consumption at 98.6 million bpd in 2018.

"Cumulatively, between 2015 and 2017, the world has added around 5 mb/d of demand for oil products on the back of healthy economic conditions globally and a relatively steady product price environment," OPEC said.

"In line with the existing overhang, the market is only expected to return to balance towards the end of this year," CNBC cited OPEC as saying.

An associate professor of the Graduate School of Corporate Management of RANEPA, Ivan Kapitonov, speaking to Vestnik Kavkaza, noted that the increase in demand for oilwas due to the worldwide acceleration of the rate of economic growth. "First of all, we need to remember about the Chinese economy, which has increased growth rates. The EU economy traditionally increases its demand every year, and this year it is expected that the growth rates in some European countries will also exceed those planned. This will traditionally increase the demand for energy, in particular, for oil, which will partially compensate the increasing production in the US, if OPEC retains quotas for this year," the analyst explained.

At the same time, he noted that it is very difficult to say exactly how demand growth will compensate for the growing supply in view of the fact that the US continues to increase production.

"The US increased its output by 3 million barrels per day, but Iraq also added more than 2 million bpd. Such an increase is informational, it just pushes up oil prices. We should not say that it is fundamentally important for the market, but it contributes to the price increase due to financial factors," the expert concluded.

A leading analyst of the National Energy Security Fund, a lecturer at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Igor Yushkov, also said that a change in OPEC's forecast was informational. "Its goal was to make traders to buy futures. OPEC understands that there should be some positive signal for the market, to make traders to start buying futures. As a result, the demand will increase, which means there will be a shortage of oil on the market and the price will rise," the expert believes.

At the same time, he noted that it is impossible to answer the question of how much the growth in demand for 1.6 million barrels per day will compensate for the growth in supply. "But in general, I think American slate projects will not restore production at an accelerated pace, they see how unstable the market is," the analyst said.

Yushkov also noted that the restoration of oil shale production largely depends on external financing, as these projects become extremely risky and unprofitable if prices are unstable. "They take loans from banks, start to produce shale oil, shale gas. But when the price falls from $72 to $62 per barrel within a few days, banks consider such investments risky, so they give money at a high interest. Therefore, there is a problem that everyone is afraid to increase production volumes, because this is fraught with the risk of going bankrupt," Igor Yushkov concluded .The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group has called on the sides to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to take additional steps to reduce tensions, as agreed in Geneva, according to the statement of the OSCE MG, posted on its website.

The statement says that the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group - Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the USA, together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, met with President Ilham Aliyev in Baku on February 7 and President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan on February 9.

"In both capitals, they also held consultations with the respective Foreign Ministers. The Co-Chairs also travelled to Nagorno-Karabakh on February 9-11 and visited specific locations in the Zangelan, Kubatly, Agdam, Lachin, and Kelbajar districts," the statement reads.

The Co-Chairs underscored the importance of fulfilling, in good faith, all commitments undertaken during the October 2017 Summit in Geneva and at previous summits, in particular, Vienna and St. Petersburg.

According to the statement, the Co-Chairs also expressed deep concern over the recent loss of life on the Line of Contact. They called upon the sides to take additional steps to reduce tensions, as agreed in Geneva, and to respect the ceasefire, as well as to refrain from inflammatory statements and provocative actions.

"The Co-Chairs again reiterate their commitment to helping the sides find a peaceful solution to the conflict based on the core principles of the Helsinki Act, including the non-use of force, territorial integrity, and the equal rights and self-determination of peoples. The Co-Chairs welcomed the parties' expressed intention to continue intensive negotiations, taking into account the current electoral period," the statement adds.Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim questioned the seriousness of the US in the fight against terrorism and urged it again to drop its support for terror groups.

"The US, which we think as our NATO ally and years-long strategic partner, should pull itself together, and come to a proper decision," Yildirim said, speaking at a news conference alongside his Macedonian counterpart Zoran Zaev in Ankara.

"The US should see that fight against a terror group via another one does not comply with a states seriousness. It would be nice if the US could see that, if it doesnt then we will continue to do what is necessary," Anadolu Agency cited the PM as saying.

The US has long supported the PYD/PKK as a "reliable ally" in its fight against ISIS, despite strong objections from Ankara, which has documented that the organization is the Syrian branch of the terrorist PKK.Turkey has so far detained 666 people for social media posts and protests criticizing its military offensive in Syria's Afrin, the country's Interior Ministry said in a statement.

"Since the start of Operation Olive Branch, 666 people have been detained for spreading terrorist propaganda on social media," the statement says.

Turkey launched an air and ground offensive, dubbed Operation Olive Branch, against the Kurdish YPG militia in Syrias northwestern Afrin region on January 20.A Ukrainian citizen was detained in Simferopol on suspicion of espionage, the press service of Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) said.

"On February 11, 2018, Russias Federal Security Service detained Ukrainian citizen Alexander Davydenko in the city of Simferopol," TASS cited the press service as saying.

According to FSB, "the person in question was collecting information constituting state secrets about the activities of the Russian National Guard Service and the Federal Security Service, handing it over to Ukrainian special services, while such information leaks could damage Russias national security."The international community expresses condolences over the recent An-148 plane crash near Moscow.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolence to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I am deeply shocked by the news of the plane crash in the Moscow Region, which has claimed many lives. On behalf of the Azerbaijani people and on my own behalf, I am offering my sincere condolences to you, the families and friends of those who lost their lives and the entire people of Russia," President Aliyev wrote in the letter.

President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev extended his condolences over a passenger aircraft crash outside Moscow. 'On behalf of the people of Kazakhstan and myself personally, I express my deepest condolences to the families, relatives and friends of the victims," a message from President Nazarbayev to Russian President Vladimir Putin said.

President of Kyrgyzstan Sooronbai Zheenbekov, Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili, Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili and Kyrgyz President Zheenbekov also expressed their condolences.

"On behalf of the people of Kyrgyzstan and myself personally I extend my deepest condolences over multiple casualties as a result of the tragic airplane crash in the Moscow Region," Zheenbekov wrote.

Radio contact with the Antonov An-148 passenger plane operated by Saratov Airlines (flight 730 from Moscow to Orsk, Orenburg region) that departed from the Domodedovo airport at 14:24 Moscow time on Sunday was lost four minutes after the takeoff. Fragments of the plane were found near the village of Stepanovskoye in Moscow Regions Ramensky district. The aircraft was carrying a total of 71 people, including two foreign citizens from Switzerland and Azerbaijan and three children. According to preliminary data, no one has survivedHA NOI  The upcoming Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet) will be a profitable time for domestic travel companies and tour operators.

Many of them have already sold out more than half of their tours planned for Tet and foresee a growth of 12-30 per cent in business compared to last Tet.

Besides short-haul tours to some Asian countries such as Malaysia, Hong Kong and China, outbound tours to long-haul destinations, such as South Korea, Japan, Australia, the US and Dubai, are now favoured by many Vietnamese holidaygoers.

autu (Investment) newspaper quoted Nguyen Tien at, deputy director of TransViet, as saying that his company had sold out over 90 per cent of tours for Tet holidays, with buyers of long-haul outbound tours making up 20-30 per cent of the total.

Ta Thi Cam Vinh, who is in charge of outbound tours at BenThanh Tourist, said her companys tours to South Korea, Dubai and Australia were fully booked.

The number of customers booking overseas tours this Tet season has increased by 20-25 per cent. The cost of these tours has also gone up by 20 per cent due to higher air fares, Vinh told the Thoi bao kinh te Sai Gon (Sai Gon Economics Times) newspaper.

With sufficient airfares, we could sell more tours, thanks to local peoples demand for travelling, which is considered the highest in the past few years, she said.

Fiditour has also expressed optimism about the market, hoping the number of tour buyers will rise by 30-40 per cent over last Tet.

Tran Thi Bao Thu, director of marketing and communications at Fiditour, said tours to Australia, Europe and Dubai had been fully booked since the end of December 2017. The company had to add more seats in the tours to South Korea and Taiwan due to high demand.

Vietravel representatives told the au tu newspaper that the company expected to serve 38,000 tourists travelling overseas during the upcoming holiday season, up 20-25 per cent over last Tet.

The company had earlier introduced some tours taking tourists to India on chartered flights with a 30 per cent discount. This was to meet the Vietnamese peoples demand for spiritual tourism in the upcoming holidays.

Besides outbound tours, Vietravel has also launched Free&Easy tours, which comprise airfares and hotel rooms, for families to eight domestic destinations, including Hue, a Nang, Nha Trang and Phu Quoc.

It has also added spiritual visits to some temples in the north, such as Bai inh-Trang An, Tay Thien and But Thap, to its tours for Tet.

Say no to low-quality tours

Despite the peak demand for travelling during Tet, representatives of many tour providers said they would not compete by slashing prices while vowing to ensure quality of their tours.

Nguyen Hong ai, director of APT Travel, which reported all its tours to over 65 domestic and overseas destinations as booked, said his company had to sign contracts with partners three months ahead of Tet. The aim was to offer customers affordable tours as well as ensure tour quality during the peak period.

According to Vietravel reprentatives, the prices of tours for Tet are higher than in the normal period due to huge demand. However, if customers applied the promotions of tour providers, they could afford budget tours.  VNSHCM CITY  Though Viet Nam remains a big importer of textile feedstock and accessories from China, its rising exports to China is a promising sign, according to the Viet Nam National Textile and Garment Group.

Customs data shows imports from China in 2017 were high at US$9 billion, or 42.7 per cent of all textile-related imports, and 12 per cent higher than in 2016.

Viet Nam often imports raw materials also from South Korea and Taiwan. South Korean products cost a fourth of Chinese products while Taiwanese products cost a fifth.

Last year, Viet Nams imports from China included over $6 billion worth of silk, $2 billion worth of leather and $800 million worth of threads.

However, according to the Viet Nam Textile & Apparel Association (Vitas), textile exports to China have been rising steadily, going up from $2.2 billion in 2015 to $3.2 billion last year. Vitas expects the figure to continue rising.

Vitas said Chinas imports of Vietnamese textile products are not taxed because of the ASEAN  China Free Trade Area while imports from countries such as India and Pakistan incur a 35 per cent tax.

China is one of Viet Nams top five textile export markets.

Since that country has the worlds largest population, its market can be extensively segmented offering a great opportunity for local textile products.

Viet Nams textile and garment exports were worth $31 billion last year.  VNSThe Viet Nam Railway Corporation (VNR) hopes to raise at least VN139 billion (US$6.2 million) in 2018 from selling its ownership in 15 subsidiary and affiliate companies, reported online newspaper baodautu.vn. Photo tinnhanhchungkhoan.vn

HA NOI  The Viet Nam Railway Corporation (VNR) hopes to raise at least VN139 billion (US$6.2 million) in 2018 from selling its ownership in 15 subsidiary and affiliate companies, reported online newspaper baodautu.vn.

Deputy Transport Minister Nguyen Ngoc ong recently signed Document 1142/BGTVT-QLDN, approving VNRs selling of its holdings in those 15 companies.

The 15 companies have total charter capital of VN680.5 billion, and VNR holds one-fifth of the figure, equal to VN139.1 billion based on the face value of shares (VN10,000 per share).

Those firms are divided into three groups. Nine of them are those in which VNR had previously sold parts of its ownership, including Transport Investment and Construction Consultant JSC, a Nang Construction JSC and Railway Urban and Infrastructure Development Investment JSC.

Four of the 15 companies are those in which VNR had previously put its shares up for sale, but failed to draw attention from investors. Those included Railway Construction Corporation and Project 3 Construction and Investment JSC, which are traded on the stock market.

The remaining companies are mining business ong Mo Stone JSC and My Trang Stone JSC. VNR will make its first attempt to sell stakes in these two companies.

Though shares of these companies are apparently unattractive to investors, they are highly valued by securities firms. Shares of My Trang Stone JSC are valued at 11.2 times their face value, 4.2 times for ong Mo Stone JSC and 2.3 times for Railway Construction Corporation.

If the sales are carried out successfully, VNR could raise more than VN139 billion, to increase its spending on purchasing new rail cars and upgrade large railway stations this year.

The management board of VNR should ask for opinions from the finance and planning and investment ministries so that it could develop the plan to sell its shares in those companies, while assuring the deals comply with existing regulations and provide high income to the State budget, Deputy Minister ong said in the document.

In order to make the sales more attractive to investors, in November 2017, VNR proposed its divestment plans to the Ministry of Transport, including starting prices and offering methods.

Under the plan, VNR will offer shares in packages for bidding on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange and financial institutions, seeking to sell the remaining shares in the nine companies in which it had previously sold part of its ownership.

VNR will sell shares of the four firms that are traded on the stock market at market prices at the correct times. Also, the State-run railway corporation will offer shares of the two stone mining companies for sale on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange.

To declare the starting prices of the sale, VNR proposed that the Ministry of Transport allow it to use the share price valuations conducted by financial institutions.

According to ong, the divestment plans were also sent to the ministries of Finance and Planning and Investment to collect feedback.

In response, the Ministry of Planning and Investment said the plans may work well for the four companies trading on the stock market, and for ong Mo and My Trang stone miners, as they comply with the Governments Decree 91/2015/N-CP dated October 13, 2015 on management of State capital in businesses.

However, the planning and investment ministry raised some concerns over the divestment plans for the four companies in which VNR planned to sell shares on the Unlisted Public Company Market (UPCoM), as the market prices of the shares were lower than the face values.  VNSHA NOI  The gold prices of two Vietnamese gold bars on Monday significant increased from VN70,000 (US$3.07) to VN110,000 per tael, in line with the global trend.

The prices at Sai Gon Jewellery Holding Company (SJC) at 9am were trading at VN36.9 million per tael (buying rate) and VN37.14 million per tael (selling rate), up VN110,000 per tael compared to the previous recorded rate.

SJCs gold prices at Ha Nois DOJI Gold and Gemstone Group on Monday rose sharply, ranging from VN36.92 million to VN37.12 million per tael (buying and selling rates), up VN70,000 per tael compared to the previous rates.

Last week, SJCs gold price decreased for two consecutive sessions, with an adjustment of up to nearly VN200,000 per tael.

Similarly, the price of Rong Vang Thang Long gold on Mondays morning session increased VN100,000 per tael, with the purchase and sale price of this brand in the range of VN36.92-VN37.37 million per tael.

Currently, Rong Vang Thang Long continues to be more expensive than SJC brand by some VN230,000 per tael.

In the global market, gold price traded at some $1,325 per ounce, up $9 compared to the previous session and equivalent to VN36.03 million per tael when converted in the domestic exchange rate.

This price of gold in the world is now lower than the domestic SJC gold by some VN1.1 million per tael.

On Monday morning, the State Bank of Viet Nam announced the VN/US$ exchange rate of VN22,430 per US dollar on February 12, down 10 ong per US dollar from the previous session.  VNSHA NOI  Viet Nam earned some US$321 million from fruit and vegetable exports in January 2018, a year-on-year increase of 36.9 per cent, says the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD).

China, Japan, the United States and the Republic of Korea remained the biggest importers of Vietnamese fruits and vegetables in the month. Other markets with strongly soaring fruit and vegetable imports from Viet Nam were Japan (69.3 per cent), the United Arab Emirates (56.3 per cent) and China (52.4 per cent).

Viet Nam, meanwhile, imported $152 million worth of these commodities in January, of which fruits accounted for 76 per cent.

MARD said the domestic fruit market saw great fluctuations, with a rise in the price of dragon fruit in the Mekong Delta region.

The trend is expected to continue in the lead-up to the Tet (Lunar New Year) festival.

Prices of star apple and jack fruit also climbed up, reaching VN15,000 (US 7 cents) and VN43,000 ($1.9) per kg, due to increasing demand for these two fruits in the United States and China, respectively.

Meanwhile, the price of orange in the Mekong Delta region fell dramatically due to abundant supply and crop disease.

Prices of several vegetables also dropped in the Central Highlands province of Lam ong due to high supply fuelled by favourable weather.

For instance, the price fell by VN500 per kilo to VN3,000 for cabbage; by VN2,000 per kilo to VN8,000 for tomatoes, and by VN2,000 per kilo to VN20,000 for broccoli against the prices in the beginning of January 2018.

In 2017, Viet Nam achieved a year-on-year surge of 40.5 per cent in the export value of vegetables and fruits to $3.45 billion.  VNSHA NOI  The Government has issued the organisation and operation charter of the Viet Nam Chemical National Group (Vinachem).

Its chartered capital is now more than VN13.7 trillion (US$602.2 million). Its expected to be VN20 trillion by 2020.

The Government will hold 100 per cent of its charter capital.

Accordingly, Vinachem will be a one-member limited company and will operate under the Law on Enterprises and related laws besides the charter.

Vinachem will have the primary functions of investment and trading of State capital in the chemical sector, fertiliser and plant protection trade and petrochemical and mineral exploitation and processing. It can invest in its subsidiaries or associated companies.

Vinachems organisational structure will include a member council, general director, deputy general directors, surveyors, a chief accountant and an international auditing board.

The chairman of the member council will be appointed the Prime Minister based on the proposal of the Minister of Industry and Trade.

Vinachems general director will manage the daily activities of the group and take responsibility for any assigned tasks.

The general director will be chosen by the member council after getting approval from the ministry. Each general directors term will not exceed five years.  VNSViet Nam News

by Dr. Andres Sosa *

Lower back pain is a common issue during the two last trimesters of pregnancy. The female pelvic bone increases its diameter to allow the babys transit during labour. This process begins around the thirty fourth week. After birth, the pelvic ring closes, but usually does not reach its original size. This is the reason why many women with children notice a small increase in the size of their hips after pregnancy.

During the third trimester, the female pelvic bone opens like a hinge thanks to the sacroiliac joints that allow more space for the baby to descend and find a good position for delivery. This situation can cause severe pain on both sides of the lower back (sacroiliac joints) and the lower abdomen above the genitals (pubic area). This pain makes walking, sitting and sleeping very difficult.

It is important to say that this pelvic opening process is a normal biological change that prepares your body to have your baby in a natural way.

What can I do if I am pregnant and I have lower back pain?

Most painkillers are not recommended during pregnancy. Therefore, if you feel lower back pain, take a rest laying down on your left side for a couple of hours, meanwhile applying a warm bag or cushion on your lower back to relax the muscles. If this does not work, visit a doctor.

First, a gynaecologist/obstetrician needs to ensure that everything is all right with you and your baby. If all is well, you can be referred to an orthopedic surgeon, who can offer a safe option to treat the pain.

In the meantime, try to keep a good posture. This is difficult because your body is different and heavier, but you need to avoid flexing your hips as much as possible, specifically when trying to pick something up from the floor. Keep your back straight, no matter if you are walking, sitting or sleeping.

What might the orthopaedic surgeon offer?

An orthopaedic surgeon can offer a safe, quick and minimally-invasive pain management therapy directly applied to both of your sacroiliac joints. This procedure is 100 per cent safe for your baby and also for you because the applied medicines will not reach your bloodstgream. It is also safe after delivery for breast-feeding mothers who feel pain.

During the procedure you will feel the same as with any other injection, like a blood test or vaccination. Pain relief can be immediate and it may last for 60 to 90 days on average. Taking painkillers will be unnecessary and you will feel more comfortable while walking, sleeping or resting until the end of your pregnancy.  Family Medical Practice Vietnam

*Family Medical Practice Hanoi welcomes Dr. Andres Sosa to the medical team. Dr. Sosa is an orthopaedic surgeon trained in Italy, specialised in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal trauma (fractures, dislocations, wounds), degenerative joint diseases (osteoarthritis, spine disc herniation) and sport lesions (sprains, joint instability, tendon ruptures) with a particular and deep interest in upper limb, spine and knee. With two European master degrees and multiple courses overseas, Dr. Sosa is able to perform open surgery, internal fixation, shoulder/knee arthroscopy, external fixation, and joint replacement as well as non-surgical pain management therapies.

For more advice on any medical topics, visit Family Medical Practice Hanoi at: 298 I Kim Ma Street, Ba inh District. Tel: (024) 3843 0748. Email: hanoi@vietnammedicalpractice.com or http://www.vietnammedicalpractice.com

FMPs downtown Ho Chi Minh location is: Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan Street, District 1; 95 Thao ien Street, District 2. Tel: (028) 38227848. Email : hcmc@vietnammedicalpractice.com

FMP a Nang is located at 96-98 NguyenVan Linh Street, Hai Chau District, a Nang. Tel: (0236) 3582 699. Email: danang@vietnammedicalpractice.comTAIPEI  With watches made from cement, furniture fashioned from factory pipes, and accessories created from motorbike leather, Taiwanese designers are winning new fans at home and abroad with their own brand of industrial chic.

The style reflects the islands sprawling cities and aims to breathe new life into mundane materials more often found on building sites or in workshops.

Jewellery and watchmaker Sean Yu uses concrete for his products, starting out by making rings from the material.

After experimenting with different types of concrete, he now uses a mix similar to the formula used to construct buildings.

His latest top-selling item is a mechanical watch with a concrete surface in the shape of a spiral staircase. It launched last year and set a sales record on crowd-funding website Zeczec, raising over Tw$12 million ($400,000) in pre-orders.

Yu says his style is inspired by acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Ando, known for his masterly use of concrete.

"I design for myself and for like-minded people who are avant-garde and rebellious, and who like novel things," Yu said.

"What attracts me most about concrete is that when you treat an ordinary material well, you can deliver new values."

His products are also on sale in Britain, Japan and the United States.

Plumber-turned-interior designer Daniel Cheng uses iron piping to create everything from lights to shelves and sofa frames.

Cheng branched out into furniture design when he was seeking to expand his business and also uses steel bars, tyres, truck wheel rims and car seats for his creations.

"My inspirations are simple. I was a plumber and its something I worked with everyday," he said.

"I want to use my imagination to make something interesting and meaningful."

Cheng says most of his clients order custom-made products, with local celebrities among his fans, as well as businesses that have hired him to decorate restaurants, cafes and clothes shops.

Ginger Chang of the Taiwan Design Centre, which promotes local designers and brands, said the industrial look featuring cement, brass, aluminium and granite is increasingly popular as an interior design trend on the island.

"The public like fresh things and they are looking for something special in terms of materials. They like the one-of-a-kind feel," Chang said.

Consumers are also drawn by a green element to some of the industrial chic products.

Balance Wu says he wants to prevent motorcycle seat-pads and scrap leather from ending up as garbage, so uses them to create wallets, bags and accessories.

Theres no shortage of material  Taiwans cities are clogged with mopeds  and Wus creations are now sold in design shops from Taipei to New York.

"Motorcycle leather is a humble and durable material that has to withhold wind, rain and sun every day," says Wu, who co-designs the products with his wife Chin Yang.

"We are turning this durable material into products that can be used for a long time."  AFPHCM CITY  Delivery services, especially express delivery, are working hard in HCM City to meet the surge in demand for delivering goods in the run-up to Tet (Lunar New Year).

The volume of goods handled by post offices and private delivery companies has been increasing enormously.

North-South Delivery Company said the volume of goods it is delivering is up 30-40 per cent from normal days, and so it has expanded its payroll and employees are working overtime.

Tran Thi Thu Trang, owner of a clothing shop in District 3, said orders have doubled or tripled compared to normal days and she uses private delivery companies.

Nguyen Huu Thinh, deputy director of Vietnam Posts HCM City office, told the Tuoi tre (Youth) newspaper that delivery volumes are double compared to normal days.

Post offices have hired more workers and vehicles to meet the demand, he said.

Bui Quang Minh, owner of a garment factory in Tan Binh District, said, I received a complaint from a customer that a parcel arrived a week late because of delayed delivery by a private company.

So now he only uses the post office or buses to reduce delays and ensure parcels are undamaged, he said. In Viet Nam, passenger buses offer delivery services, with receivers required to come to the bus station to pick up their parcels.

Nguyen Trong Quynh, director of Phuc Thuan Thao Co Ltds HCM City office, said last December just before the New Year, his company had hired many additional buses to both carry passengers and deliver goods, whose volume had seen a huge increase.

Post office deadlines

For delivery before Tet, which falls on February 16 this year, the post office has stipulated a deadline for receiving parcels of February 10 if the sender is in the city and February 9 for outlying areas.

In case of express delivery, it has set a deadline of February 12 if the sender is an individual and February 11 for others.

Parcels received after the deadlines will be delivered only after February 21.  VNSHCM CITY  The production value per hectare of land in HCM City reached VN450 million (US$19,736) last year, an increase of 10.9 per cent compared to 2016, largely due to hi-tech methods, according to the citys Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The growth in the citys total agricultural production value last year was 2.2 times higher than the countrys average figure.

The Sai Gon Agriculture Biotech Corporation is one of many hi-tech companies that have seen increased production value.

Nguyen Hoai Nam, the companys director, told the Sai gon giai phong (Liberated Sai Gon) that the company had applied biofloc technology to shrimp farming in the outlying district of Can Gio since 2013.

Biofloc is waste water treatment system developed to mitigate disease in water in aquaculture facilities and farms.

Before breeding, water in the system is filtered and treated, and microorganisms are grown to maintain water quality by the uptake of nitrogen compounds. Shrimp grow for 30 to 60 days and then are cultured in ponds in a closed system.

Micro nanobubble oxygen generators, which are a new generation of efficient, energy-saving water treatment technology, are used in shrimp farms. The generators help provide a standard volume of oxygen for shrimp, which helps it breed successfully, Nam said.

Hi-tech applications in shrimp farming have helped produce profits since 2016, Nam said, adding that nearly 50 tonnes of shrimp have been harvested per hectare per crop.

The companys foreign clients took test samples before harvest, which showed that no antibiotics or banned chemicals were used during the breeding period.

Trang Quoc Dung of Nong Phat Company said the technology had helped raise productivity and quality of the companys honeydew melons, which are grown in membrane houses and watered by drip irrigation systems in Hoc Mon District.

The company plans to use hi-tech applications for more vegetables such as asparagus this year, Dung said.

According to the citys agriculture department, hi-tech methods are being used on 390ha of vegetable, flower and fruit cultivation.

The economic value from these kinds of vegetable has been VN1 billion to VN1.4 billion per ha every year. Nearly VN2 billion is earned from each ha of orchids annually.

Speaking at a recent conference on agricultural activities last year, Le Thanh Liem, vice chairman of the city Peoples Committee, said that such farms should be expanded into hi-tech agricultural zones.

He said the city should provide low-interest loans to encourage enterprises to invest in hi-tech agriculture. But many of them complain that they have difficulty accessing low-interest loans due to lacking of collaterals.

Moreover, companies must be certified to use hi-tech agricultural techniques in order to apply for loans for hi-tech agriculture purposes.

The Sai Gon Agriculture Biotech Corporation, for example, applied for the certification in 2016 but has yet to receive it.

Liem said that the city has policies to encourage enterprises and individuals to invest in this sector.

He instructed the citys agriculture department to work with the agriculture ministry and give guidance to enterprises on how they could benefit from these policies and receive certification.  VNSHA NOI  To better prepare for Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), the biggest holiday of the year, the State Bank of Viet Nam (SBV) and authorities where industrial zones locate have taken several solutions to deal with ATM overload.

According to data collected by commercial banks, about 80 per cent of transactions at ATMs are cash withdrawals. As people often receive wages and bonuses before Tet, the rising demand for cash can lead to crippling burdens for ATM machines in the days prior to the holiday.

N. T. Nga, a resident of ong a District, Ha Noi, told the Nong thon Ngay nay (Countryside Today) newspaper that to avoid the long queue of people waiting to do transactions, she had to withdraw money earlier, from February 8.

Meanwhile, ATMs in Bac Thang Long Industrial Zone, ong Anh District are under the huge pressure as workers want to withdraw money before heading home for Tet.

N. P. Thao, from the northern province of Vinh Phuc, a worker at the industrial zone, said ATM overloads happened annually during the holiday.

People plan to withdraw from VN15 million to 20 million (US$660 to 880) but the banks limit it at VN5 million ($220) per transaction so we have to wait. A lot of them have given up already, she said.

The workers have to wait 30 to 35 minutes to do transactions at ATMs. The situation is more serious at rush hours in the afternoon and days near Tet.

ao Minh Tu, deputy governor of the SBV, said that the bank would tighten cash management in all localities and be ready to mobilise resources to satisfy the demand for cash.

ao Thi Phuong, deputy director of SBV branch in Bac Ninh Province, stressed timely cash restocking is needed to prevent ATM overloads.

Commercial banks need to stock an adequate amount of cash to refill ATMs and collaborate with police to ensure security during the process, she said.

In Bac Giang Province, another hub of industrial zones, different solutions have been used to tackle the problem.

According to Tran Xuan Dung, deputy head of the provincial branch of Vietcombank, three additional machines are set up at Van Trung Industrial Zone.

Also, instead of transferring money to workers bank accounts, Bac Giang Texile Company asked Vietcombank to bring cash to its office and directly distribute year-end bonuses to some 6,000 workers.

At least, it reduces 6,000 people doing cash withdrawals and helps to ease the pressure on ATMs, said Dung.

The situation also happened in the southern province of Binh Duong, which is packed with industrial parks and processing zones, Vietnam News Agency reported. Workers, mostly from other provinces, queued up for long lines in front of ATMs. Many said they have come to several different ATMs at several locations to try their luck, but to no avail.

According to a Government decree, banks that let their ATMs remain broken, short of cash or other issues that inconvenience customers can be fined VN10-15 million ($441-661). A hotline number is also required to be present in all ATMs so customers can quickly report problems.

According to statistics released by the SBV, the country has more than 127 million banking cards of all kinds, more than 17,300 ATMs and 260,000 point-of-sale machines.  VNSHA NOI  Lawmakers, lawyers and leaders from Vietnam Social Security (VSS), a State agency in charge of the countrys social insurance programme, have all advised against the practice of using social insurance books as collateral by banks, credit institutions and small loan businesses at a conference last week on the subject.

The experts cited numerous legal issues and the high risk associated with the practice, which has frequently been reported since last year, especially among workers in industrial zones.

The countrys new Social Insurance Law, which came into effect in 2016, allowed workers to hold their own social insurance books. The move was a drastic departure from an earlier version of the law which made employers the responsible party for keeping the books.

Lawmakers were prompted to change the regulation after several problems surfaced, including soaring social insurance debt and even fraud in some cases due to a lack of awareness among workers regarding their own rights as well as their inability to keep track of their employers social insurance payments made on their behalf.

Giving workers their social insurance books helped eliminate the above-mentioned problems, keep workers informed of their status and progress, and save employers time and expenses in keeping a record of workers insurance files, said deputy director of VSS, Tran inh Lieu

Due diligence was taken by social insurance agencies and employers to ensure the books, when handed to workers for safe-keeping, were up-to-date and complete, Lieu said.

More cases are being reported in which books are taken to commercial banks and used as collateral. The VSS branch office in the south-central province of Phu Yen even notified VSS head office that they had received requests from the banks to co-operate with legal proceedings in such cases.

As of this moment, there are no laws that prohibit the use of those books as collateral. There are also no laws that require VSS to comply with such requests from the banks. An official ban on this practice must be in place to stop these high-risk transactions, said lawyer Truong Thanh uc.

Lieu said that while these transactions are of a civil nature and not prohibited, social insurance payouts would only be made to workers who managed to meet all requirements of their insurance scheme.

VSS will not authorise payouts to be made to the banks. Its entirely their responsibility and their risk if they choose to proceed with such transactions, said the deputy director, We (VSS) have informed and advised commercial banks, credit institutions and small loan businesses against taking the books as collateral.

There have been cases of workers, after using their books as collateral to take out loans, reporting them as missing and requesting replacements. VSS offices were told to refuse such requests.

Experts at the conference also pointed out that there is currently no acceptable method to determine the monetary value of social insurance books. In the event that the books owner dies, they will be invalidated and cant be cashed in. Furthermore, the use of those books as collateral defeats the countrys social insurance schemes mission: to mitigate the adverse effects of undesirable events that may happen to the insured such as sickness and unemployment.  VNSONG NAI  Authorities in the southern province of ong Nai on February 11 used their own budget to pay the salary and Lunar New Year (Tet) bonus for two thousand workers of a company whose managers have fled the country.

On the morning of February 11, representatives from ong Nai Labour Federation and the provincial labour and social affairs department came to the South Korea-invested textile and garment manufacturer KL Texwell Vina based in Bau Xeo Industrial Park, Trang Bom District to organise payments.

Vietnam News Agency reported that from early morning, nearly 2,000 workers of the company lined up under tight security, waiting for their turn.

Each worker received 50 per cent of their January salary that KL Texwell Vina owes. They would also receive another VN600,000 (US$26.4) as support from local labour agencies on the morning of February 12.

With just four days until Tet, the companys workers were relieved as they now at least have some money to cover expenses for the Lunar New Year holiday. Many said they were just about to catch the bus to return to their hometowns.

Previously, on February 9, workers of the company gathered to demand payment for their January salary which amounts to a total of some VN13.7 billion ($604,170). However, departments at the company said that late on February 8 the director-general, together with 11 executives of the KL Texwell Vina company, had already left for South Korea.

KL Texwell Vina is a 100 per cent South Korean-owned company. It registered with Vietnamese authorities in December 2015, with charter capital of VN100 billion ($4.4 billion) and hiring 1928 employees.

Aside from the late salary payment, the company has also reportedly failed to pay social insurance for their employees since last years August, which now totals upwards of VN17.5 billion ($771,750).

Lawyers have suggested ong Nai authorities quickly file a lawsuit for the court to start bankruptcy procedures against the company so that its machinery and other assets could be valued and sold to pay the workers salaries and bonuses.

Also on February 11, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc lauded the quick response from ong Nai Peoples Committee and the Viet Nam General Confederation of Labour.  VNSHA NOI  Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Saturday gave a certificate of merit for bravery to Hoang uc Hai, who died after saving a woman and her two children from drowning in the northern province of Thanh Hoa on Thursday.

Hai was a fourth-year student in a Ha Noi-based university. He returned to his hometown for Tet (Lunar New Year) holidays. The accident occurred when he saw the woman and her two children releasing carps into a local river on the Ong Cong - Ong Tao (Land Genie and Kitchen Gods) day.

On the 23rd day of the last month of the year, Vietnamese families hold a send-off ceremony for the Ong Cong - Ong Tao, the genies found in every Vietnamese home. It is believed that at New Year they ascend the Heaven to report on the good and bad deeds that happened in the house during the year. The carps serve as their means of transportation and therefore, must be healthy and looking well.

However, the woman and her children slipped then fell into the river after releasing the carps. Hai and his two friends immediately dove into the river to rescue the woman and children. After the woman and the children were saved, Hai was swept away due to exhaustion.

Prime Minister Phuc had also sent VN20 million (US$880) to Hais family for the funeral.A NANG  Two people died and another 11 were wounded after a bus travelling from HCM City to Quang Tri Province suddenly lost control and rolled on the ring-road at Hai Van Tunnel in a Nang at about 5am Monday morning.

Colonel Le Ngoc, head of the citys traffic police office, said the bus, owned by a company from HCM City, was carrying 29 passengers homes for Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday, when it suddenly capsized in Hoa Lien Commune in Hoa Vang District, 20km west of the city centre.

The injured passengers were taken to a Nang General Hospital. Another 4 passengers were taken home to Quang Tri Province by another bus.

The traffic safety agency and traffic police are investigating the accident.

The citys peoples committee donated VN10 million (US$442) to support families of the dead, and provide medical service to the wounded.

It was the worst traffic accident in the city since the start of 2018.  VNSHA NOI  Two workers were injured yesterday morning in an explosion at a steel smelting furnace in Quat ong Industrial Zone in Ha Nois Thuong Tin District.

Chairman of Thuong Tin District Peoples Committee Kieu Xuan Huy confirmed the news to the media and said the explosion took place at a three-tonne steel smelting furnace of Viet Han Company in the industrial zone. The explosion damaged part of the companys workshop.

Five firefighting engines reached the spot to control the flames and rescue people.

According to Ha Noi Fire Fighting and Controls Team 12, this is the second explosion at the smelting furnace of the company. The previous explosion took place in March 2012, in which two persons were killed and six injured.  VNSpast daily news Sep 13 (1) Sep 09 (15) Sep 06 (12) Sep 04 (10) Sep 03 (10) Aug 31 (17) Aug 29 (14) Aug 26 (13) Aug 22 (11) Aug 21 (12) Aug 19 (21) Aug 14 (6) Aug 13 (10) Aug 10 (10) Aug 08 (9) Aug 07 (10) Aug 06 (10) Aug 05 (8) Aug 03 (8) Aug 02 (7) Aug 01 (7) Jul 31 (14) Jul 29 (1) Jul 27 (7) Jul 25 (5) Jul 24 (10) Jul 22 (11) Jul 19 (16) Jul 17 (6) Jul 16 (10) Jul 15 (13) Jul 12 (7) Jul 11 (5) Jul 10 (8) Jul 08 (8) Jul 07 (3) Jul 06 (5) Jul 05 (8) Jul 04 (11) Jul 03 (8) Jul 02 (7) Jul 01 (5) Jun 30 (8) Jun 28 (7) Jun 27 (8) Jun 26 (7) Jun 25 (8) Jun 24 (6) Jun 23 (6) Jun 22 (9) Jun 20 (5) Jun 19 (9) Jun 18 (8) Jun 15 (9) Jun 13 (13) Jun 11 (11) Jun 09 (19) Jun 06 (10) Jun 04 (10) Jun 03 (8) Jun 01 (6) May 31 (5) May 30 (5) May 29 (6) May 28 (7) May 27 (7) May 26 (6) May 25 (4) May 23 (6) May 22 (6) May 21 (4) May 20 (7) May 19 (9) May 18 (4) May 17 (6) May 16 (5) May 15 (7) May 14 (3) May 13 (3) May 12 (9) May 10 (3) May 09 (7) May 08 (4) May 07 (3) May 06 (5) May 05 (8) May 03 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(36) Apr 07 (22) Apr 06 (11) Apr 05 (28) Apr 04 (20) Apr 03 (29) Apr 02 (32) Apr 01 (18) Mar 31 (12) Mar 30 (9) Mar 29 (15) Mar 28 (22) Mar 27 (24) Mar 26 (17) Mar 25 (17) Mar 24 (13) Mar 23 (5) Mar 22 (12) Mar 21 (15) Mar 20 (18) Mar 19 (19) Mar 18 (16) Mar 17 (10) Mar 16 (6) Mar 15 (18) Mar 14 (24) Mar 13 (18) Mar 12 (18) Mar 11 (17) Mar 10 (13) Mar 09 (12) Mar 08 (18) Mar 07 (25) Mar 06 (16) Mar 05 (16) Mar 04 (22) Mar 03 (17) Mar 02 (6) Mar 01 (23) Feb 29 (19) Feb 28 (25) Feb 27 (26) Feb 26 (23) Feb 25 (12) Feb 24 (13) Feb 23 (15) Feb 22 (26) Feb 21 (31) Feb 20 (12) Feb 19 (21) Feb 18 (15) Feb 17 (10) Feb 16 (15) Feb 15 (19) Feb 14 (15) Feb 13 (25) Feb 12 (20) Feb 11 (9) Feb 10 (7) Feb 09 (28) Feb 08 (20) Feb 07 (22) Feb 06 (20) Feb 05 (19) Feb 04 (14) Feb 03 (16) Feb 02 (28) Feb 01 (37) Jan 31 (27) Jan 30 (31) Jan 29 (18) Jan 28 (14) Jan 27 (10) Jan 26 (18) Jan 25 (26) Jan 24 (34) Jan 23 (21) Jan 22 (21) Jan 21 (18) Jan 20 (18) Jan 19 (18) Jan 18 (26) Jan 17 (24) Jan 16 (23) Jan 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it. Since domain transfers are a manual process, it can take up to 5 days to transfer the domain.

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.Feb 12, 2018 | By Tess

Gaming, fantasy, and sci-fi enthusiasts will already know that additive manufacturing is changing the cosplay game, as the technology enables people to create highly realistic cosplay props and costumes.

(Image: shoreydesigns / Instagram)

On the costume front, weve just come across a novel method for 3D printing flexible, wearable (and, dare I say, comfortable?) cosplay armor. Presented by maker David Shorey at a recent Hackaday meetup, the process consists of 3D printing plastic armor tiles onto a piece of netted fabric, such as tulle.

The result is a flexible, totally wearable piece of 3D printed armor that can be sewn, glued, or attached to create almost any type of armor or shielding.

Interestingly, the method isnt that far off from a special technique used by Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen in her recent Ludi Naturae collection. To construct one of her 3D printed dresses, the innovative designer worked with researchers from TU Delft to 3D print synthetic resin structures (using a multi-material Polyjet 3D printer) onto a thin and sheer piece of tulle.

In Shoreys case, he 3D printed three layers of his tiled armor pattern (it is important that the individual pieces are slightly disconnected), paused the print, and then carefully secured a piece of tulle (a fine netted fabric) to his 3D printers build plate on top of the first three layers. When the tulle was flat and safely attached, he simply resumed the print.

If you want to try out the simple process yourself, be sure that the tulle material you are using (especially if it is made from nylon) wont melt or deform if you are printing with a high-temperature filament. Secondly, be sure that the material is properly secured (and laid flat) on the build platform. This can be achieve using tape, clips, or something similar.

(Image: shoreydesigns / Instagram)

The possibilities for armor effects are virtually limitless, and Shorey has demonstrated some pretty awesome examples on his Instagram page, including a tiled mirror effect as well as a chain mail design and scales.

Though this is not the first time weve see makers 3D print onto fabric (see this 3D printed t-shirt decal for reference), it may be the first time weve seen it used to create props of this quality for cosplaying purposes.

It goes without saying, but if you want to 3D print yourself an entire suit of armor using this method, youll have to carefully plan the printing patterns so that you can assemble the individual pieces of the printed armor into a wearable form. This, as some will know, might not be quite as simple as the technique itself.

Posted in Fun with 3D Printing

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Feb 12, 2018 | By Benedict

Immensa Technology Labs, a 3D printing company based in Dubai, has 3D printed parts for a Toyota GT86 race car. The vehicle, driven by Mohammed Abdulghaffar Hussain, raced to victory at the Yas Marina Circuit earlier this month.

The winding Yas Marina Circuit, a racetrack that serves as the venue for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, is no easy drive in the countryside. Sebastian Vettels lap record at the circuit has stood since 2009, and McLaren driver Fernando Alonso crashed there last year.

Its therefore a huge compliment to 3D printing that a Toyota GT86, equipped with 3D printed components and driven by Mohammed Abdulghaffar Hussain, sped to victory at the Yas Marina Circuit in the TRD 86 Cup last month.

In what was a first for the UAE, 3D printing company Immensa Technology Labs provided 3D printed parts for the Toyota, doing its bit to support the Dubai 3D Printing Strategy while improving the performance of the vehicle.

(Images: Immensa)

We are proud to be the first 3D printing company in the UAE to apply this new technology to the local automotive industry, said Fahmi Al-Shawwa, CEO of Immensa. We are confident that additive manufacturing can enhance traditional manufacturing processes, reduce costs, redefine productivity, and fuel innovation across all sectors, and we are delighted to have proven this in partnership with Hussain.

Driver Hussain, an amateur race car driver, is also managing director of Green Coast Enterprises and CEO of Creek Capital, and drove to victory with the modified Toyota. He said he was pleased to have been part of the milestone moment, adding that 3D printing provided the group with a great turnaround time for parts that we were not able to source locally and others that were produced to a much higher quality than the original parts.

Immensa Technology Labs was founded in 2016.

Posted in 3D Printing Application

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Mdn wrote at 2/14/2018 10:28:24 AM:Lets improve car performance by printing stretchy bracelet :D



Feb 12, 2018 | By Benedict

Edinburgh-based Skyrora, a company with partners in Ukraine, will launch a partially 3D printed suborbital vehicle from the north of Scotland later this year. Skyroras rocket engines run on hydrogen peroxide and kerosene.

America, Russia, China, and Scotland? Yes, the newest contender in the space race is that tiny northern country of the United Kingdom, Scotland, whose very own Skyrora has developed a suborbital launch vehicle that will take off from northern Scotland in the last three months of 2018.

Its a great achievement for the company, which also operates from Ukraine and which has used 3D printing to develop parts for its spacecraft.

Potential launch locations include Shetland, where the Shetland Space Centre is bidding for a licence from the UK Space Agency. If the company can secure a launch location, its partly 3D printed suborbital launch vehicle could be taking off within the year.

That would be in no small part thanks to additive manufacturing equipment, including an EOS M 400 3D printing system, which has been used to develop certain rocket components.

But despite the futuristic 3D printing tech on show in Skyroras lab, the companys rocket actually channels the spirit of the Black Arrow project of the late 1960s and early 1970s, the UKs first locally launched satellite, by running on hydrogen peroxide and kerosene.

According to Skyrora, everything is looking positive ahead of the planned launch later this year.

Things are moving very rapidly at this point, Skyroras business development manager Daniel Smith told SpaceNews. Weve already 3D printed various parts of our suborbital test vehicle and are in advanced talks about testing our engines here in Britain. We expect to grow our UK team substantially in Q1 2018, particularly on the manufacturing side of the business.

The rocket will be able to carry a payload of 150 kg.

Posted in 3D Printing Application

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Rights Issue Offer Document and Entitlement Form

Sydney, Feb 12, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Hastings Technology Metals Ltd ( ASX:HAS ) provides the Rights Issue Offer Document and Entitlement Form.For a non-renounceable pro rata offer to Eligible Shareholders of approximately 39,481,260 Rights Issue Shares at an issue price of $0.31 per Share on the basis of 1 Rights Issue Share for every 17 Shares held to raise approximately $12.2 million before issue costs.The Offer is fully underwritten. See section 9.4 for details.To view the document, please visit:About Hastings Technology Metals Ltd

Hastings Technology Metals Ltd (ASX:HAS) (FRA:5AM) is advancing its Yangibana Rare Earths Project in the Upper Gascoyne Region of Western Australia towards production. The proposed beneficiation and hydro metallurgy processing plant will treat rare earths deposits, predominantly monazite, hosting high neodymium and praseodymium contents to produce a mixed rare earths carbonate that will be further refined into individual rare earth oxides at processing plants overseas.

Neodymium and praseodymium are vital components in the manufacture of permanent magnets which is used in a wide and expanding range of advanced and high-tech products including electric vehicles, wind turbines, robotics, medical applications and others. Hastings aims to become the next significant producer of neodymium and praseodymium outside of China.

Hastings holds 100% interest in the most significant deposits within the overall project, and 70% interest in additional deposits that will be developed at a later date, all held under Mining Leases. Numerous prospects have been identified warranting detailed exploration to further extend the life of the project.

Brockman Project

The Brockman deposit, near Halls Creek in Western Australia, contains JORC Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources, estimated using the guidelines of JORC Code (2012 Edition).

The Company is also progressing a Mining Lease application over the Brockman Rare Earths and Rare Metals Project.

Hastings aims to capitalise on the strong demand for critical rare earths created by the expanding demand for new technology products.The potential for record breaking temperatures came to an end over the weekend, and is not expected to return this week. Showers returned to portions of the mountains last night, and are continuing across the Sierra this morning. Snow levels are being reported down to 3000', but limited precipitation amounts should keep impacts minimal early today. That being said, mountain roads in the Sierra will may still be slick, and drivers are encouraged to give themselves extra time to get to where they're going today. Temperatures have dipped into the 30's to low 40's in the valley overnight, and mountain areas are starting out in the 20's to 30's early today. Winds will be out of the North from 10 to 20mph. High temperatures are projected to climb into the low 60's in the valley this afternoon, and into the high 30's to low 50's in the mountains later today. Sierra showers should taper off by either late afternoon, or early this evening.

Clearing skies, and dry weather return to Northern California tonight. Winds are expected to continue into this evening, but should lose strength by Tuesday morning. Sunny skies, and slightly warmer temperatures are ahead for your Tuesday. Another cool and wet system will drop South from the Pacific Northwest on Wednesday, and that will bring another chance for mountain showers to Northern California. There will be a very slight potential for light showers in the Redding area, but the main emphasis of wet weather will be in the mountains. Temperatures will be on par with today on Wednesday. Clearing skies, and a modest warming trend will be ahead for the end of the week. Valley areas will end up back in the high 60's to low 70's on Friday, and will stay in that range on Saturday.

Sunday will be slightly cooler than Saturday, and the potential for more mountain showers will return. The Sunday system will also bring a better chance for showers to the valley, but it is a bit far out to project precipitation amounts with any level of certainty.The Stonewall Alliance Center in Chico is hosting the 5th annual MasQueerade Ball from 7 - 11 p.m. at the Chico Women's Center, 592 E. 3rd Street.

It's a benefit for the Center, intended to unite and empower the geneder and sexual minority community. All proceeds go toward the Stonewall Alliance's continued mission to provide services to the LBGTQI+ community that include support groups, advocacy programs and free HIV and Hep C testing.

The MasQureerade Ball features dancing, live performances by dancers and drag royalty, fashion art by Chikoko and music by local producer and DJ Confido. Guests are encouraged to attend in "outrageous bourgeois attire" (high fashion of the bizarre and frivolous" and create their own unique, bejeweled masterpiece at the Mask Design Table during the event. There will be a no host bar for those who are 21 and older.

This year Stonewall is also offering a free makeup and styling pre-party from 5-7 p.m. at Tender Loving Coffee. RSVP by emailing center@stonewallchico.org or calling (530) 893-3336.

The after-party will take place at The Maltese bar, at 1600 Park Avenue.

For more information visit www.stonewallchico.org.WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on the Obama portraits: (all times local):

12:20 p.m.

Former President Barack Obama says that sitting down for his presidential portrait was a frustrating experience.

Speaking at the painting's unveiling ceremony Monday at the National Portrait Gallery, Obama said he normally hates posing, saying he gets impatient and starts "looking at my watch."

But he told the crowd that working with artist Kehinde Wiley was "a great joy."

Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama each had their portraits unveiled at the gallery.

The former president, who personally chose Wiley, said the artist listened carefully to his suggestions and then ignored most of them. Obama said he asked for less gray hair and was denied. He also says he tried to "negotiate smaller ears and struck out on that as well."

11:46 a.m.

The National Portrait Gallery has unveiled portraits of former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama, both painted by African-American artists who were personally chosen by the Obamas.

The portraits were unveiled to the public Monday. The gallery has a complete collection of presidential portraits. A second and different set of portraits of the former first couple will eventually hang in the White House.

Barack Obama's portrait was painted by Kehinde Wiley - an artist best known for his vibrant, large-scale paintings of African-Americans. For Michelle Obama's portrait, the gallery commissioned Baltimore-based artist Amy Sherald, first-prize winner of the Portrait Gallery's 2016 Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition.

The portraits will be officially installed and available for public viewing starting on Feb. 13.

(Copyright 2018 The Associated Press.)NEW YORK (AP) - The Latest on the lawsuit filed by New York's attorney general against Weinstein (all times local):

9 p.m.

A lawyer for disgraced Hollywood movie producer Harvey Weinstein says he believes a "fair investigation" by New York's attorney general will show that many of the allegations against Weinstein are "without merit."

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman (SHNEYE'-dur-muhn) filed a lawsuit in Manhattan on Sunday against Weinstein and the Weinstein Co. following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct.

In court papers, Schneiderman says the Weinstein Co. "repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation and discrimination."

Schneiderman also says that any sale of the company "must ensure that victims will be compensated" and that employees will be protected.

In a statement Sunday night, Weinstein's attorney, Ben Brafman, says that while Weinstein "was not without fault, there certainly was no criminality."

___

6 p.m.

New York's attorney general has filed a lawsuit against Hollywood movie producer Harvey Weinstein and the Weinstein Co. following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct.

In court papers filed in Manhattan on Sunday, state Attorney General Eric Schneiderman (SHNEYE'-dur-muhn) says the Weinstein Co. "repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation and discrimination."

Schneiderman says any sale of the company "must ensure that victims will be compensated" and that employees will be protected.

Schneiderman launched a civil rights probe into the New York City-based company in October after The New York Times and The New Yorker exposed allegations of sexual assault and harassment spanning decades. The company later fired Weinstein.

Telephone and email messages seeking comment from Weinstein were not immediately returned.

(Copyright 2018 The Associated Press.Heathrow led a UK airport cargo filip in January 2018, with a record a 6.9% rise to 133,000 tonnes compared with the same month in 2017.

The UKs top cargo hub saw export volumes grow by 10.6% in January, while the top destinations for cargo growth were the US (1,214 tonnes), Spain (1,070 tonnes) and China (966 tonnes).

Heathrow chief executive John Holland-Kaye said: Heathrow is off to a flying start, with record passenger numbers and cargo volumes and the start of our public consultation on the third runway.

"Heathrow expansion will provide the global trading routes to super-charge Britains economy as we leave the European Union.

Cargo handled at Stansted airport in the UK was up by 4.5% on January 2017, at 20,885 tonnes.

Stansteds fellow MAG-owned UK hub, East Midlands, saw a 12.6% growth in cargo tonnage in January. MAGs Manchester airport reported that its rolling annual throughput at the end of January was 123,676, a year on year growth of 8.32%

Read more Cargo Airport News

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Gov. Kay Ivey held a meeting last week with the CEO of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama.

A photo of the sit down with Dong Ryeol Choi, president and CEO, was posted on the Governor's Twitter page, along with a plug for Alabama's growing status as an automotive producer:

Pleased to meet with Pres. & CEO of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Dong Ryeol Choi. Alabama is a top 5 auto manufacturer, and I'm proud to continue growing that sector of our state. @Hyundai pic.twitter.com/O0y5PcTj9k  Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) February 8, 2018

Hyundai spokesman Robert Burns said the meeting was a routine get-together.

"This was a formal introductory meeting," Burns said. "We arrange these meetings with the sitting governor each time HMMA has a new president & CEO. It is customary for our Korean expatriate president & CEOs to meet with the highest elected officials in the jurisdiction where they work."

The Montgomery Hyundai plant has been the subject of media reports over the last few months regarding possible moves.

Last November Business Korea reported the South Korean company plans on expanding the Montgomery plant with a $270 million investment in the second half of this year. This would reportedly allow the plant to produce the mid-sized Tucson SUV, the subcompact Kona and a pickup.

Hyundai denied the report at the time, saying the company had made no decision about a production change in the U.S.

Then last month, Hyundai unveiled a new concept for its Santa Fe SUV. The Montgomery plant manufactures the Santa Fe Sport. Reuters at the time quoted Ko Tae-bong, a senior auto analyst at Hi Investment & Securities, as saying the model will be "key to recovering the utilization rate of Hyundai's factory in Alabama."

The Montgomery factory produced more than 328,000 vehicles last year, employing about 3,000 people.The Rev. Mike McLemore, executive director of the Birmingham Baptist Association since 2007 and pastor of Lakeside Baptist Church from 1983-2007, has died.

McLemore died on Saturday. He had recently suffered complications from heart problems. He was 69.

McLemore served as president of the Alabama Baptist Convention from 2000-2002, representing more than a million Southern Baptists in 3,200 Alabama churches.

"Mike was called by many Mr. Alabama Baptist," said Alabama Baptist Editor Bob Terry. "He was trusted not only theologically, but as a leader who would try to find the right path for the group."

McLemore helped negotiate disputes over resources and control of Baptist-affiliated colleges in the state. "Mike brought calm to troubled waters," Terry said. "He worked very hard to reconcile the factions of the convention and work toward unity."

As director of the Birmingham Baptist Association, he oversaw coordinated mission work for about 130 churches around the city.

"With diminishing resources, he helped reorganize and tried to focus energies more on service," Terry said.

McLemore also made the Birmingham Baptist Association more racially inclusive, Terry said.

"We have a lot more African-American churches," Terry said. "That's an emphasis he made. We have a lot more involvement with the total community than we had a few years ago."

McLemore stood with other denominations in favor of tax reform, Terry said.

"When he was president of the convention, the Christian community was lobbying for a just tax system," Terry said. "Alabama Baptists are not known for being at the forefront on that issue. But he said this was an important issue for the cause of Christ. He stood with the bishops of various denominations and spoke as an individual to create a just tax system in our state. That was one expression of his concern."

McLemore was youth pastor and associate pastor at the 2,000-plus-member Lakeside Baptist in Birmingham before becoming senior pastor.

McLemore, a native of Athens, was a 1966 graduate of Tanner High School and attended John C. Calhoun Junior College in Athens. He was in the U.S. Air Force from 1969-1973. He earned a bachelor's degree from Samford University in 1976 and a master of divinity Degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1979.

McLemore came under scrutiny for his handling as pastor of a former Lakeside Baptist youth pastor later convicted of sexual abuse of minors.

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. today at Lakeside Baptist Church in Birmingham. A memorial service will be held at Lakeside at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, and burial will follow at Limestone Memorial Cemetery in Athens.A series of meetings aimed at examining voting access in Alabama is scheduled to kick off Feb. 22 in Montgomery.

The panel discussions, hosted by the Alabama Advisory Committee to the U. S. Commission on Civil Rights, will "examine access to voting in the state of Alabama which may have a discriminatory impact on voters based on race, color, disability status, national origin, and/or the administration of justice."

The meetings come at a time when the U.S. voting system is under great scrutiny due to the ongoing congressional investigation into Russia meddling in the 2016 presidential election as well as concerns about voter suppression and gerrymandering in states including Alabama.

The forums are expected to feature testimony from academics, community leaders, policy makers and other interested Alabamians. Members of the public will also have an opportunity to speak, and the committee will accept written testimony submitted to dbarreras@usccr.gov by March 31.

"The right to vote is fundamental to our democratic process. Laws that impede that right therefore hurt us all regardless of their intent at their creation," Jenny Carroll, the advisory committee's chair, said in a press release announcing the discussions. "Our Committee will gather information on the impact that voting regulation in our state has on our citizens."

The first meeting is scheduled for Feb. 22 at the Connecting Life Center, at 70 W. Edgemont Ave. in Montgomery. Members of the public will be invited to speak during the open forum portion, which typically lasts from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

"The information we gather will help paint a fuller picture of the state of voting rights in Alabama. We look forward to hearing from experts and members of the public alike," Carroll said.

More information about the meetings can be accessed on the website of the Federal Register, at this link.A 96-room luxury hotel is planned for the former Commerce Center building in downtown Birmingham.

Rhaglan Hospitality CEO Jim Lewis said the hotel will be similar to the Redmont Hotel, which his company redeveloped in 2016. The Redmont is a Curio Collection by Hilton hotel.

It's unclear when construction may start on the project.

The Birmingham-based hotelier is seeking assistance from the city of Birmingham in obtaining a loan of up to $2.5 million for a term up to 20 years from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program.

The loan would provide partial financing for real property acquisition and pre-construction costs associated with the former Protective Life Company building, or Commerce Center, at 2027 First Avenue North.

The budget and finance committee of the Birmingham City Council on Monday approved the request. The matter will go before the Birmingham City Council on Tuesday, Feb. 20.

The Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program provides communities with a source of financing for economic development, housing rehabilitation, public facilities, and other physical development projects.

"We are very excited," Lewis said of the project, adding the hotel could have room for retail and a restaurant.

He didn't know the potential brand of the forthcoming hotel.

"We are in discussions with several hotel companies," Lewis said.

He said the building is in "exemplary" condition for being empty for at least 10 years.

When asked why he wanted to redevelop the building, Lewis said the project was a natural next step from Redmont.

JK Commerce LLC, which has the same address as Rhaglan Hospitality, bought the 14-story Commerce Center at the corner of 1st Avenue North and Richard Arrington Boulevard, for $2.8 million in November 2017, public records show.

The building was once home to Protective Life and later the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce. The 71,000-square-foot building dates back to the 1920s.

Brown Marx

The Brown Marx Building - the last empty building in the "heaviest corner on Earth" - may also be developed into a hotel.

Tupelo Hotels 1031 Acquisition II LLC purchased the Brown-Marx building at the corner of 1st Avenue North and 20th Street North in downtown Birmingham from Hughes Capital Partners late last year for $3.7 million, public records show. The company also bought the Allright Parking Deck at 1901 First Ave. N. for $1.6 million.

According to information from the city of Birmingham, the purchaser plans to develop the property as a hotel.

Tupelo Hotels 1031 Acquisition II LLC shares the same address as Ascent Hospitality, which developed the Elyton Hotel in the adjacent historic Empire Building. Ascent is also developing a limited service Marriott hotel with 120 rooms in the former Alagasco headquarters building.

A marketing representative for Ascent Hospitality didn't respond to multiple requests for comment on the Brown Marx project.

Updated at 5 p.m. with additional details on hotel from Rhaglan Hospitality.In Alabama, while a Pickens County teacher is currently serving three years in state prison for having consensual sex with an 18-year-old student, there is no law on the books barring police from having sex with people they arrest.

That's according to a new report by BuzzFeed News, which found that Alabama was one of 35 states that have not specifically outlawed cops from engaging in sexual activity with people in police custody.

Meanwhile, any sex between Alabama correctional officers and inmates is considered felony sexual misconduct, according to state Department of Corrections policy.

"It shall be unlawful for any employee to engage in sexual conduct with a person who is in the custody of the Department of Corrections, the Department of

Youth Services, a sheriff, a county, or a municipality," DOC policy states.

The BuzzFeed story focuses on the story of a Brooklyn 18-year-old named Anna, who alleges that NYPD officers handcuffed her and took turns raping her in the back of a moving van on Sept. 15, 2017.

The cops are no longer on the force and they have both been charged with rape, but Anna's case shines a light on the power differential between police officers and the people in their custody, which provides fertile ground for abuse.

Terra Burns, an Alaska-based anti-sexual assault advocate, told BuzzFeed News that it is essential that states pass laws aimed at closing the loophole that allows police officers to have sex with people they arrest without risking major criminal charges.

"Cultural shifts happen, but what we need to see is a policy shift," said. "There's a long entrenched history of institutionalized rape culture that has to change."Attorney General Jeff Sessions said slavery and not state's rights or economic differences led to the bloodiest war ever fought on American soil.

Speaking at the Abraham Lincoln Foundation of the Union League of Philadelphia's annual Lincoln Day Celebration, the former Alabama Senator dismissed the idea that the Civil War was more about state's deciding their own destinies than it was about slavery.

"The thing was brewing from the beginning of the Republic," Sessions said. "Though many Southerners try to say otherwise - and I love my people - slavery was the cause of the war. It was not states' rights or tariffs or agrarian versus industrial economies. Those issues were all solvable and would have been solved. The cloud, the stain of human bondage - the buying and selling of human beings - was the unsolvable problem and was omnipresent from the beginning of the country.

"And the failure, the refusal of the South to come to grips with it, really to actually change this immoral system of enslavement led to the explosion," Sessions said. "As to slavery, it had to end. The nation could stand the disgrace no longer."

Sessions, confirmed as AG a year ago this month, has been criticized in the past for his stance on civil rights.

You can see Sessions' comments here.It isn't often that Alabama's public schools can say they were the first in the world to achieve something spectacular. But one district, Winfield City Schools, can claim that honor, as they are the first school district in the world--yes, the world---to have every school attain STEM certification through the worldwide AdvancEd accreditation agency.

Winfield Superintendent Dr. Keith Davis is notably proud of the accomplishment, giving credit for the successful pursuit to teachers, faculty, students and the community in Winfield. "All of our stakeholders have worked very hard. We couldn't do what we are doing without the support of our community."

STEM, an acronym for science, technology, engineering and mathematics has become a popular phrase in education circles in recent years. For AdvancEd, it doesn't simply mean that a school offers STEM courses, though.

To become certified in STEM, a school has to demonstrate that it uses STEM strategies across classes and throughout the school, meeting the standards AdvancEd requires.

Winfield Elementary and Middle schools earned STEM certification in February of 2017, and Winfield High School became certified in October. Alabama currently has only one other school, Carroll High School in Ozark City schools, that has obtained STEM certification.

That distinction is getting Winfield, a 1,200-student district in Marion County in northwest Alabama, recognition at the top levels of state government. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey met with school officials last month to recognize the honor.

Davis said he appreciated Ivey's recognition, saying STEM certification is a "natural fit" for her "Strong Start, Strong Finish" initiative, which emphasizes computer science skills.

Sen. Larry Stutts, R-Sheffield, read the Resolution commending Winfield City Schools on the Senate floor, and posted this on his Facebook page.

Winfield City Schools is the VERY first system in the United States to have all of its schools STEM certified. Honored... Posted by Senator Larry Stutts on Thursday, January 25, 2018

STEM certification doesn't replace a district or school accreditation process, Davis said.

It's an additional credential, one which Alabama AdvancEd Director Dr. Andre Harrison said indicates a school, or in Winfield's case, the whole district, is using STEM strategies to engage students in their own learning.

STEM strategies include hands-on, student-directed learning, Harrison said. Students direct their own learning, he said, while teachers facilitate that learning among students.

"The kids really are in charge of their learning," Harrison said. That keeps students from getting bored, he said, and "When students are engaged, the battle is won."

Davis said STEM strategies fundamentally changed the way teachers teach in Winfield. "We got rid of desks and moved in tables," he said. "[Teachers] made the classroom more of a collaborative environment between students."

That collaboration among students, solving their own problems with the teacher helping them as opposed to instructing them, is how the real world works, Davis said.

"This helps the teacher be more of the facilitator," he said, "and that transition by far was probably the most difficult. More experienced teachers tend to want to control the classroom more. Making that transition to seeing the teacher as not having to be the source of all knowledge and then getting the students comfortable by creating the environment where they can work together took some time."

Some teachers were reluctant, and for some, "it was a learning experience," he said. "But as time went on and we had success, we got more people on board."

In addition to changing how learning happens in the classroom, a school must form community partnerships that meaningfully connect local business and industry with students in the school. Forming those partnerships is typically the toughest part, Harrison said.

Davis credited those partnerships with maintaining a vibrant connection between the city's schools and business and industry in the area. "New businesses are coming to town," he said, "that want to be part of that continued growth and expansion."

Davis said he first heard about STEM certification in 2016 and liked that AdvancEd had put together standards for schools to meet. It provided a goal for a journey Winfield started four years earlier with a one-to-one technology initiative in their 4th and 5th grades, Davis said, coupled with STEM processes embedded in those classrooms.

"We just wanted to have some way of having a standard to meet to make sure we were doing it right," Davis said, calling AdvancEd the "gold standard for school accreditation."

The district moved slowly, Davis said, expanding the one-to-one initiative a few grades each year.

Now, Davis said, students in 3rd through 10th grades have their own personal computer. Grades K through two have a blend of laptops and iPads, he said, and 11th and 12th graders use a computer lab along with computer carts for classrooms.

But the technology alone isn't enough, Davis said. It's how that technology is used to help students learn that makes the difference, he said.

Davis said Tombigbee Electric is bringing in high-speed Internet, something he calls a "major boost" for Winfield. District officials are working with Tombigbee to help find ways for low-income students to access high-speed Internet at home, he said. "Once you do that, you really open the door to the world."

Nearly half of the students in Winfield are low-income, meaning their families meet the criteria to receive free or reduced-price meals.

Harrison said there is no application fee to gain STEM certification in districts which are already accredited. The only cost to schools, he said, is hosting the two-member team that will conduct the review.

Harrison, a lifelong Alabama public school teacher and administrator prior to his work with AdvancEd, said he is working with 10 schools across Alabama toward gaining STEM certification. Harrison takes candidates to visit Winfield so they can see what it looks like.

There is no set timeline for the STEM certification process, Harrison said, because schools begin the process at different points. Those who have earned STEM certification are in an elite group, he said, as just more than 100 schools worldwide have earned STEM certification.

AdvancEd doesn't require specialized training or the purchase of any particular curriculum or professional development program, Harrison said. "We don't tell you how to get there. We just want you to get there."

Winfield City schools have had a tradition of high achievement, but the journey to obtain STEM certification, Davis said, takes them to the next level.

Davis, in his eighth year as superintendent in Winfield, said he is proud of the STEM certification and said it is the type of thing communities can put their faith into. Although he's proud of the "A" the district earned on the state's recent report card, he said the certification is a better indicator of what's happening in a school because it shows school officials are "preparing kids for the workforce, rather than preparing them for a test."

Like most superintendents in rural Alabama, Davis thinks about whether his graduates might stick around Winfield after graduation.

Winfield is a great community in which to live and raise a family, he said, but there aren't many jobs for graduates.

Technology can help with that, he said. People can work remotely, perhaps allowing more of Winfield's graduates to hold jobs in Winfield after graduation.

"We haven't seen but the tip of the iceberg on that," Davis said. "Who knows where that's going?"The death of a 3-year-old girl who fell into a grease trap outside an ice cream shop in Auburn has sparked legislation intended to prevent such accidents.

Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, is sponsoring a bill requiring food service establishments to make sure that covers over grease traps are locked and secured.

"What this will hopefully do is make sure all grease traps in the state are safe so we don't have a tragedy like this happen again," Whatley said.

Whatley's bill says grease trap covers must be locked or heavy enough to prevent access by children. It says lids must be able to support expected weight loads.

Sadie Grace Andrews of Auburn died in October when she fell into a grease trap outside Bruster's Ice Cream. Video from a surveillance camera showed she was playing with two of her siblings in a grassy area when she apparently fell through the lid into the 6-foot-deep tank. Sadie was unresponsive when she was found a few minutes later and efforts to revive her failed.

Authorities said the death was an accident but the incident will be presented to a grand jury because it was a non-natural death, Lee County District Attorney Hughes said.

The city replaced covers over the grease trap after the accident, the Opelika-Auburn News reported.

Whatley's bill is named the Sadie Grace Andrews Act. It won approval by the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, putting it in position for a vote by the Senate.

The bill calls for the Alabama Department of Public Health to adopt rules to implement the law.

Violators would be charged a $500 civil fine that would go to the ADPH to help pay for the cost of enforcing the law.

Under current law, the ADPH has limited involvement in regulating grease traps.

Most restaurants are on municipal sewer systems and standards are set by municipalities, ADPH spokeswoman Arrol Sheehan said.

If a restaurant has an onsite sewage system, the ADPH rule is: "The cover or lid shall be designed, constructed, and maintained to prevent unauthorized access."

Mindy Hanan, president and CEO of the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association, said the organization supports efforts to make grease traps safer.

"We are following the plans regarding how the law would be implemented and suggested penalties," Hanan said in an email.

Grease traps are intended to reduce the amount of grease, oil and fats carried into sewer systems with wastewater. The substances can clog pipes.

The owners of the Auburn Bruster's and the corporate office of the ice cream chain both issued statements after Sadie's death to express their condolences and say they would investigate what caused the accident.

Bruster's CEO Jim Sahene said the company asked all franchisees to inspect their grease traps for safety.The sponsor of a bill in the Alabama Legislature that would force the state's Forever Wild land conservation program to pay taxes on the land it has purchased said his bill will restore lost funding for struggling counties without putting the popular land conservation program in jeopardy.

"I'm not trying to hurt the [Forever Wild] program," Rep. Mark Tuggle said in a phone interview. "I've supported the program in the past. As a member of the Alabama House, I voted for the renewal of the program in 2012."

But Tuggle also represents Coosa County, a rural area southeast of Birmingham, which is struggling to fund its school system and other basic government functions.

"I'm trying to solve multiple problems," Tuggle said. "I'm trying to defend Forever Wild, and I'm trying to restore some minimal level of funding back into my county general fund and county school systems all across the state."

Tuggle said if his bill, HB 362, is passed, Forever Wild would have to pay about $500,000 to $600,000 per year in tax reimbursements, while still taking in up to $15 million per year from royalties paid to the state for offshore oil and gas operations.

Tuggle said Forever Wild has $22 million in its operations account, and the stewardship fund has another $33 million, so the program can afford to reimburse the counties for last tax revenue.

"That's about 2 or 3 percent of what's sitting in the bank right now," Tuggle said. "I just don't think it's going to devastate the program. I just don't buy that argument.

"They can adjust their business model and continue to be a successful program."

A self-sustaining fund

Opponents of the bill, however, say adding more financial responsibilities to the program will jeopardize its long-term financial stability.

Forever Wild receives a 10 percent share of the royalties paid to the state from offshore oil and gas drilling operations (capped at $15 million) to purchase sensitive lands for conservation throughout the state. Forever Wild owns approximately 195,000 acres and has secured public access to more than 60,000 additional acres with long-term lease agreements.

Forever Wild properties include popular outdoor spaces like the Walls of Jericho and the Cathedral Caverns State Park expansion in north Alabama, the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve and areas around Ruffner Mountain in Birmingham, and Weeks Bay Reserve and the Perdido River Wildlife Management Areas in the southern part of the state.

The program was created by a state constitutional amendment in 1992, and approved by more than 80 percent of Alabama voters. It was reauthorized for an additional 20 years in 2012 with 75 percent of the vote.

Forever Wild properties are frequently listed among the state's most popular places for hiking, hunting, fishing or other outdoor recreational activity.

Tammy Herrington, executive director of Conservation Alabama, said her group is opposed to "any bill that would be detrimental to Forever Wild," including HB 362.

"When the program was originally set up in 1992, it was set up to be a self-sustaining program so it would never have to take money from any other entity other than itself," Herrington said. "If, under this new bill, it starts eating into those funds, it will ultimately undo what the program's original intent was, which was to be self-sustaining in perpetuity."

Forever Wild uses interest earned from the stewardship fund is used to pay for upkeep and maintenance on all Forever Wild lands. By using only interest payments, Herrington said, the program ensures that it will survive over the long haul.

"There were all kinds of people, not just conservationists, around the table in 1992 when they came up with this and they set it up to be self-sustaining," Herrington said.

"It seems to irritate people that there's this large sum of money sitting there in the stewardship fund, but basically it's set up so it can take care of the lands that are purchased by the state."

Safeguards included

Tuggle introduced a bill last year that -- like this year's bill -- would have required Forever Wild to pay ad valorem or use taxes on all land it has purchased since the program was created. This year's bill would not require Forever Wild to pay back taxes for previous years of lost revenue, as the 2017 version did.

Tuggle said he has listened to critics of the last bill and incorporated safeguards to protect the Forever Wild program as a whole while still sending money to the counties.

The bill contains provisions that Tuggle said would protect Forever Wild long-term if the program is not renewed in 2032, the next time it's up for reauthorization.

First, the bill would require the legislature to pay up to $1 million per year into the Forever Wild stewardship fund if the program is not renewed. That would offset the added property tax liability, Tuggle said.

Second, the bill states that if the program is not renewed, proceeds from any timber sales on Forever Wild land would go to the Forever Wild stewardship fund. Currently, those funds go to the general fund.

Finally, the bill would allow county commissions to opt out of assessing the tax payments to Forever Wild. Many local governments in Alabama supported Forever Wild land purchases in their areas, and the bill gives commissions an option to waive payments to the land trust.

"I met with the opposition last summer and they asked for those three things," Tuggle said. "I put all three of those in the bill to try to move it along and work towards the middle.

"I'm trying to restore some base level of funding to these counties that are losing money. When this land is purchased, they no longer pay property taxes and it takes money off tax rolls to the county general fund, which includes the sheriff's departments and the county school systems. It's a serious issue and it deserves a vote as a constitutional amendment."

What's next?

The bill has advanced from committee and will go before the full House later this session. The bill requires the land trust to reimburse counties for lost tax revenue.

HB 362 is a constitutional amendment, so it would need to pass a statewide referendum before becoming law.

"Voters will ultimately decide the issue," Tuggle said. "HB 362 is about fairness."

Herrington said the voters have already decided on Forever Wild, in both the 2012 referendum, and with strong public pushback against efforts to redirect Forever Wild funds toward other purposes, even toward state parks.

So far, those attempts have not succeeded in the Legislature.

"I think the voters have already spoken, and any time we send out notices about what's going on when these anti-Forever Wild bills go out, our members overwhelmingly reach out in support of the program," Herrington said.

"There's some frustration on our part that voters have already spoken on this issue and yet we keep ending up here."The U.S. military has recently added more than 4,000 names to the list of dishonorably discharged military personnel banned from owning a firearm, a move that comes after an ex-U.S. airman killed 26 people at a Texas church in November 2017.

CNN is reporting the Department of Defense has been working to update the FBI on personnel that have been kicked out of the military and banned from owning a gun. Devin Kelly, the shooter in the Texas church case, had been forced out of the military for assaulting his wife, which should have prevented him from purchasing the semiautomatic rifle used in the Texas case. However, the Air Force later admitted it did not submit his records through the background check system.

In the last three months, the names of some 4,284 former service members were added to the list, which now includes more than 15,500 names.

The Pentagon's Office of Inspector General is also reviewing how the branches of the military submit information about dishonorable discharges to the FBI.The Alabama Public Charter School Commission Monday gave approval for LEAD Academy to become Montgomery County's first public charter school, in a 5-1 vote, with Commission Chairman Mac Buttram abstaining. Buttram said he abstained because he has previously worked with members of LEAD Academy's board.

LEAD Academy plans to open in August for the 2018-2019 school year with 360 students in Kindergarten through 5th grade, expanding by one or more grades each year until it serves a total of 1,250 students in all grades by the 2024-2025 school year.

Public charter schools are publicly funded but have more autonomy than traditional public schools in finance, personnel, scheduling, curriculum, instruction and procurement. The flexibility is intended to encourage innovative programs that serve some students better than traditional schools.

According to a presentation made by the four founding board members to the Commission, the acronym LEAD comes from the vision for the school: "to build leaders by engaging students, focusing on high achievement and developing the whole child to become knowledgeable, productive, well-rounded citizens."

Leaders, engaging, achievement and developing being the keywords there.

LEAD Academy Board Chair Charlotte Meadows, a former Montgomery Board of Education member, said in a press release, "We are excited to start preparing for the upcoming school year and serving students that are looking for another option in Montgomery."

The board held a public meeting in January in downtown Montgomery, where, at the time, press reports said the school may be located, but Meadows told the Commission those plans are not yet final.

This will be the first public charter school to use a Charter Management Organization, or CMO, to perform what Meadows called "central office" duties for the school. Unity School Services, a newly-formed for-profit organization, will serve as the education service provider for LEAD Academy.

The role of the education service provider, according to the presentation, is similar to what central office personnel do in local school districts and includes developing, monitoring, and evaluating curriculum and instruction and conducting professional development and training for teachers and other personnel in the school.

Unity School Services' founder Dr. Soner Tarim, who founded the Harmony Public Schools network in 2000, attended the meeting and fielded questions from Commissioners about how the school will operate. Harmony Public Schools network is the largest charter school network in Texas, with 54 schools and 34,000 students, and the second largest in the nation, Tarim said.

After the meeting, Buttram, who has served on the Commission since its inception in 2015, said the for-profit nature of Unity School Services doesn't worry him.

"They are a for-profit organization, and they're in it, I'm sure, to turn a profit," Buttram said, "but they have an expertise and a history that can be very beneficial, I believe."

The school will use a "cross-disciplinary blended PBL [project-based learning] curriculum" that will be aligned with Alabama's course of study. The curriculum will be a STREAMS-based curriculum, board member Dr. Lori White told Commissioners. STREAMS is an acronym for science, technology, reading, engineering, arts, math, and social and emotional learning, she said, and the school day will include longer blocks for English Language Arts and math.

Board member William Green said character development through social and emotional learning is central to the school's mission. Character has to be developed "in every class, in every day," Green said. "Throughout all the way from kindergarten through high school."

"If there was a culture change in Montgomery public schools, we wouldn't even be here in the first place," Green said.

Montgomery County's public schools are undergoing state department of education intervention for academic and financial reasons. In January, 14 of Montgomery's schools were declared "failing" under the Alabama Accountability Act, and 17 schools received F's on the state's report card.

On Feb. 9, Alabama interim state superintendent Dr. Ed Richardson, who is overseeing the intervention, unveiled next steps for Montgomery's public schools, including closing four schools, and eliminating 17 central office positions.

In December, Richardson declared Montgomery County would begin accepting charter applications as part of the intervention and will accept applications for charter operators through March 16.

LEAD Academy's board members, under the name Infinity Learning Center, applied to the Commission last year, and received conditional approval, but withdrew the application. Because of the work that had been completed on the prior application, the Commission granted permission to open for enrollment in 2018.

The next round of applications to the Commission is due March 16. The Commission will meet next on May 14 to vote on those applications.

Mobile's ACCEL Academy, which serves students in grades 9 through 12 who are at risk of dropping out, opened last August as the first public charter school in Alabama. University Charter School in Sumter County plans to open in Livingston in west Alabama in August of this year.

After the meeting, Buttram said he feels good about LEAD Academy's approval and the Commission's oversight of applications. "I have been an advocate for many years for charter schools," he said, "and to be a part of approving the first ones in the state of Alabama is certainly important to me."

LEAD Academy public charter school application by Trisha Powell Crain on ScribdA federal grand jury convicted a Prattville man on sex trafficking a minor and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor charges Thursday, according to the Department of Justice.

Michael Graham Lowe, 25, was found guilty on the charges Thursday after a four-day trial. A sentencing date has not been set.

"These defendants manipulated and sexually exploited a child in order to feed their own illegal drug habit," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Cronan. This case is representative of the Department's commitment to ending the sex trafficking of children, which all too commonly is facilitated by online advertisements, and bringing their traffickers to justice."

According to evidence presented at the trial, around May 2016, Lowe and co-defendant Joshua Rose conspired to traffic a minor victim at the Stay Lodge motel in Montgomery. Rose allegedly advertised the underage victim on Backpage, and Lowe helped arrange meetings for the victim to engage in commercial sex acts, Cronan said in a statement. Lowe is also stood outside the motel room while the victim engaged in the sex acts, presented evidence shows, he said.

Lowe also took the minor victim to another location to engage in commercial sex act, he said. Both Lowe and Rose allegedly used the money they earned from the victim's commercial sex acts to buy drugs, Cronan said.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.

This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations, and the Prattville, Alabama Police Department, with assistance from the Montgomery, Alabama Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service and Alabama Attorney General's Office.

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Leslie Williams Fisher of the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Hollie Reed of the Middle District of Alabama.The worst county to live in Alabama has high unemployment, falling population and a poverty rate almost double that of the rest of the state, according to a recent analysis.

24/7 WallStreet examined poverty rates, educational attainment, unemployment and health outcomes to determine the worst county to live in each state. In Alabama, the worst place to live was determined to be Wilcox County in the southwestern part of the state.

The median household income in Wilcox County is only $24,442 a year, less than half the national median of $55,322 a year and considerably lower than the median of $44,758 in the state as a whole, 24/7 WallStreet found.

Also, 34.9 percent of Wilcox County's population lives below the poverty line, as compared to the 15.1 national poverty rate and an 18.4 percent poverty rate in Alabama.

Wilcox County's poverty rate ranks as the 10th highest in the country:

Oglala Lakota County, South Dakota (53.9 percent) Holmes County, Mississippi (45 percent) McCreary County, Kentucky (42.5 percent) Madison County, Louisiana (39.6 percent) McKinley County, New Mexico (38.1 percent) McDowell County, West Virginia (37.6 percent) Apache County, Arizona (36.2 percent) Zavala County, Texas (35.8 percent) Bell Hill County, Georgia (35 percent) Wilcox County, Alabama (34.9 percent)

The unemployment rate in Wilcox County is 9.3 percent, more than double the 4.1 percent national unemployment rate. The population in Wilcox County is also shrinking, dropping by 6.3 percent over the last five years as compared to a 3.9 percent increase over the same period of time in the U.S.A Mobile native has been named a Sailor of the Year for the U.S. Navy's Naval Air Force Atlantic, a step on the way to the Navy's overall Sailor of the Year award.

According to the Navy, the annual process honors sailors who represent the best of the Navy in terms of "both professional and personal dedication." Factors used in the judging include "a history of sustained superior performance, command impact, mission contribution, proven leadership, dedication to self-improvement, outstanding professionalism, [and] superior personal appearance."

According to information released Monday by the Navy, Mobile native Shelldon L. Hunter was announced as the Shore Sailor of the Year for the Naval Air Force Atlantic. The awards process has separate categories for personnel assigned to "sea" and "shore" duties.

According to the Navy, Hunter is an Electronics Technician First Class. He is attached to the Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in Maryland, where he serves as the Avionics Armament division's leading petty officer.

According to the Navy, Hunter is among those who will advance to the next stage of the selection process for the U.S. Fleet Forces Command's overall sailors of the year.Alabama's crowded gubernatorial race will be the most watched political campaign ahead of the June 5 primaries. But for pure political intrigue, it's the Republican contest for attorney general that rivets the early attention.

In the field are: incumbent Steve Marshall, who was appointed to the position in February 2017 by soon-to-resign Gov. Robert Bentley; Alice Martin, a former top federal prosecutor who served as chief of staff to Marshall's predecessor, Luther Strange; Troy King, the state's attorney general from 2004-11 who was beaten by Strange when he tried for a third term; and Chess Bedsole, the 2016 campaign chairman in Alabama for President Donald Trump.

Friday was the filing deadline for statewide candidates to qualify to run under the Republican and Democratic banners.

Marshall's incumbency might seem to give him an edge, but he's been on the job for only a year, and the attachment to the scandal-plagued Bentley could be a ball-and-chain. Bedsole, thanks to a $300,000 loan, leads in the GOP foursome in fund-raising at the moment.

"Right now, if you asked me to pick the most competitive race, it's the Republican AG's race," said Jess Brown, a retired political science professor from Athens State University who's long tracked the doings of the state's candidates and campaigns.

King, according to Brown, is the one with the most name recognition. "He has friends," Brown said of King. "He'll have his enemies. He'll have money."

But some of that name recognition might hurt rather than help. King's re-election defeat in the 2010 GOP primary came amid lingering reports and scuttlebutt that King's office was under investigation for alleged connections to gambling interests. According to those same reports, Martin, the then-U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, was overseeing the probe.

If there was a King-Martin duel then, the outcome isn't known. But perhaps they'll duel again, one-on-one, in another arena very soon.

Steve Flowers, a former Alabama GOP lawmaker who writes a popular political column, expects King to be the top vote-getter June 5. And, he added, "I would say the person who gets in the runoff with him will be Alice Martin."

On the Democratic side, the two candidates for attorney general carry interesting names: James "Chris" Christie, a Birmingham lawyer who's been involved in criminal and civil trials for three decades; and Joseph Siegelman, a Birmingham lawyer who's the son of former Gov. Don Siegelman.

'A clear choice'

Another hot race flying under the radar thus far is the GOP battle for chief justice of the state Supreme Court. Chief Justice Lyn Stuart, who was appointed to the position last April by Gov. Kay Ivey, is matched against Associate Justice Tom Parker.

The specter of Roy Moore gives the race a special twist. A twice-ousted chief justice, a hero to many Biblical conservatives, Moore became an internationally known last year in his failed bid for the U.S. Senate. Besieged by allegations that he'd sexually quested after teenage girls in Gadsden as a lawyer in his 30s, Moore lost to Democrat Doug Jones. It was the first time that a Democrat had won a statewide race in Alabama since 2008.

Said Brown: "That's a clear choice between chamber of commerce Republicans and lifestyle conservatives. Parker is clearly an ally of Judge Moore. He came into politics with essentially the same base of voters who supported Judge Moore."

Said Flowers: He will have the Roy Moore organization on his side. Stuart will have the Business Council of Alabama. It will be classic Roy Moore vs. the BCA."

The winner will take on Democrat Bob Vance in the November general election. Vance, a judge in Jefferson County, nearly defeated Moore for the chief justice seat in 2012.

The Republican lieutenant governor's race pits three Republicans against one another, two of whom are amassing sizeable war chests; and the GOP tilts for Alabama treasurer and commissioner of Agriculture and Industries will be determined during the GOP primary voting, since no Democrats qualified to run.

State Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, is considered an early frontrunner for ag commissioner because of well-developed ties in Montgomery from serving more than 40 years in the Legislature.

"To become competitive, the newcomers need lots of money and a base of energetic voters -- black women; white evangelicals; mobilized, college educated suburban women are probably the best examples of groups that can make an outsider competitive right now," stated Wayne Flynt, a renowned historian and professor emeritus in the history department at Auburn University.

'Fresh face'

As for the gubernatorial race, Ivey is pegged as the favorite for now. She's easily ahead of her GOP opponents in campaign fundraising, with $2.1 million in the bank. The next-closest gubernatorial hopeful is Tommy Battle, the Huntsville mayor, who ended January with $1.2 million cash on hand.

According to Morning Consult, a Washington-based research and polling firm, Ivey is the third most popular governor in the U.S.

Political observers generally rate Battle as Ivey's strongest GOP foe. Others in the GOP field are Birmingham youth pastor Scott Dawson and state senators Bill Hightower of Mobile and Slade Blackwell of Mountain Brook.

There are five Democrats are running for governor, the best known being Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox and former Alabama State Supreme Court chief justice Sue Bell Cobb.

Said Brown, "For both Maddox and Battle, their message has to be that they are a fresh face. They have to paint Ivey and Cobb as career insiders, 'If you like what's going on in Goat Hill, vote for them.' ... That's what they have to run with."

Richard Fording, a political science professor at the University of Alabama, believes Cobb is better positioned than Maddox to win the Democratic primary. "My sense is she is viewed positively among Democrats in this state and that she is someone whom people respect for the position that she held," Fording said. "He has an uphill battle. It seems like she has a more statewide network from her history in the state. That's going to be tough for him."

If it is Cobb vs. Ivey, that will mark an Alabama first: Two women as their parties' gubernatorial nominees.Building on the success of earlier projects, AL.com is bringing women of different political, social and cultural backgrounds together in conversation as this year's mid-term elections approach.

The Many: A Conversation across Divides, will feature a moderated social media conversation among Alabama women about Alabama issues. The project will eventually expand to include women from across the country who -- in a tough political climate -- are willing to talk through their differences respectfully.

Reckon by AL.com is again partnering with Spaceship Media on the effort to put the women together in a closed Facebook group. Conversations there will be closely moderated by Spaceship Media and Alabama Media Group staff to provide participants with well-researched information and productive conversation experiences.

Spaceship Media first partnered with Alabama Media Group in 2016 to launch the Alabama-California Conversation, which paired conservative voters in Alabama with California liberals to talk across regional and cultural divides. In 2017, the media companies partnered again to build a conversation around the achievement gap in Alabama's education system, convening more than 60 Alabama teachers of different races and from different grade levels to discuss the causes of this inequity, and to strategize on the best ways to respond in their classrooms.

The Many will run until the mid-term elections in November 2018, allowing participants to explore their questions, concerns and hopes for the future over a sustained period of time.

Ready to join in?

Join our conversation at www.spaceshipmedia.org/themanyform.AG Steve Marshall

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall holds a press conference Monday, Feb. 13, 2017, at his office in Montgomery, Ala. Marshall was appointed to office on Friday by Gov. Robert Bentley. (Julie Bennett/jbennett@al.com)

(Julie Bennett/jbennett@al.com)

About three weeks ago, the Alabama Attorney General's office sent a flurry of subpoenas to lawmakers asking them to show proof their campaign finance reports were accurate.

It was about time.

There are good reasons to believe lawmakers might be playing fast and loose with their campaign funds. First of all, no one has ever looked before, because the law didn't create any mechanism of accountability. (Imagine how many people would pay taxes if the IRS had no way to audit them.)

Second, in the last year, two lawmakers have been caught dipping into their campaign accounts to pay personal expenses. And those two who were caught -- they were caught practically by accident, having been discovered in investigations of other people and other crimes.

Somebody needed to look at the rest of the Legislature.

But that somebody who needs to look isn't Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall.

Crossing the streams

Since those subpoenas went out, Marshall's campaign has sent emails to at least two of the same lawmakers who received subpoenas, only this time he asked for campaign contributions and help setting up campaign fundraisers.

Marshall says the emails were sent out by his campaign staff and that the addresses came from lists bought from vendors.

In the first email, sent the same week lawmakers received their subpoenas, Marshall's campaign asked a lawmaker for help coordinating fundraiser in his district.

The second email, sent this week, solicited campaign donations.

Both create potential problems for the investigation

Open season

An Alabama lawmaker shared the email he recieved with me, on the condition that I not reveal his name. Obviously, he doesn't want constituents to know he also received a subpoena. I felt it was worth the trade, so I agreed.

The most recent email, sent from steve@stevemarshall.gop, has the subject line, "Blackout. Over."

Under Alabama campaign finance law, candidates for state offices are prohibited from raising money during the legislative session, unless it is within 120 days of an election. This year's blackout ended Monday.

In the email, Marshall boasts of achievements since being appointed to the office by Gov. Robert Bentley last year.

"We are proud of our victories, but there are critical battles ahead: defending Alabamians from the opioid epidemic, seeing through any violent crime initiative, strengthening ethics laws, and thwarting human trafficking," Marshall wrote in the email. "To continue winning for Alabama, we need you to support Team Marshall. Please pitch in today!"

While Marshall's second email to lawmakers came after the blackout had ended, the first came before.

Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill said the first email would have been in a gray area if it solicited help during the blackout period but set up fundraisers after the blackout ended.

"If it went out during the blackout period, then that's a concern. The blackout period ended Monday morning at 12 a.m.," Merrill said. "It would be left to the interpretation of some jurist, whether that be the Ethics Commission or a judge, whether that is a violation."

Alabama Ethics Commission Executive Director Tom Albritton said he has cautioned others against using similar fundraising tactics. The code does not define "solicitation," he said.

"Any time a determination of whether the act is violated turns on the interpretation of facts, my recommendation is that you proceed very conservatively," Albritton said. "In most people's minds, what 'solicitation' means is 'Hey, can you give me some money?' But if you think about the word solicitation, it means 'asking.'"

According to Marshall the second fundraising email went out to a large number of recipients, including some lawmakers.

"It was a global fundraising email that went out to a broad email spectrum," he said.

The first email, he said, was a follow-up with a lawmaker who had previously offered to help him with his campaign.

Since the last email went out, the names of current and former lawmakers have been removed from his campaign mailing lists, Marshall said.

Bad timing

But one thing is clear, Marshall has given some potential targets of investigations a big card to play should a grand jury return an indictment against any of them. Is he trying to extort campaign donations from suspects? Because that's what those lawmakers can argue if they get popped.

But Marshall doesn't see it that way. When I asked him whether he felt he had put his office's investigation at risk, he responded with one word, "No."

Marshall has recused himself from investigations before. Last year, after Bentley appointed him to replace Attorney General Luther Strange, Marshall removed himself from the office's investigation of Bentley, handing it off to a former Montgomery District Attorney Ellen Brooks.

But Marshall doesn't see the need to do so this time. When I asked him whether, he would recuse, again he answered with one word.

"No," he said.

Kyle Whitmire is the state political columnist for the Alabama Media Group. You can follow his work on Facebook through Reckon by AL.com.Government says commercial agriculture plan will benefit smallholders, but farmers in Nakarari fear they will lose land.

Nakarari, Mozambique  Elena Vito had never heard about ProSavana when government officials came to her village and asked her to sign a paper. She refused and today she is more than happy not to have complied.

It was not clear what they were proposing. They told me they would provide me with tools to improve my yields but at the same time they wanted me to change the crops I usually grow, Vito told Al Jazeera.

The farmer, in her 40s, lives in Nakarari, northern Mozambique. She sustains her four children with the products of her familys machamba (farm), a tiny piece of land of 0.5 hectares where she cultivates peanuts, maize and cassava.

The village is at the heart of the Nacala Corridor, a 14.5-million-hectare area where the government wants to implement the Programme of Triangular Cooperation for Agricultural Development of the Tropical Savannahs of Mozambique, more commonly known as ProSavana.

The project aims to convert the whole area into commercial agriculture, increasing the productivity and producing cash crops such as soybean, cotton and maize for export.

The railway crossing the corridor and the Nacala port, on the Indian Ocean, seem perfectly suited to reach the global market, especially China, the worlds largest importer of soybean.

Although the government says ProSavana will benefit smallholders, many farmers in the area fear they will lose their land to make way for foreign companies.

According to Mozambican law, the land is owned by the state. Farmers and communities can refer to customary occupancy and use it. But they would need a paper stating their right of use and benefit of land, known as Duat (a Portoguese acronym for Direito do Uso e Aproveitamento da Terra). Not everyone has a Duat, nor is everyone in these rural areas fully aware of its actual value.

Most Mozambicans are small-scale farmers growing crops like maize and cassava [Enrico Parenti/Al Jazeera]

In the Nakarari community, not far from Vitos field, some farmers sold off their Duat to a Brazilian-Portuguese company, Agromoz, which now produces soybean on 10,000 hectares.

They were given minimal compensation and found themselves without land. Many of them eventually quit and resettled somewhere else, Agostinho Mocernea, secretary of the village said. We have learnt our lesson with Agromoz. We will never accept ProSavana.

ProSavana is inspired by Brazils Cerrado Development Programme, a plan that received Japanese support from the late 1970s till the 1990s and turned the unproductive land of Mato Grosso into a breadbasket and an important soybean producing region.

ProSavana itself is a triangular cooperation arrangement involving the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ACB).

Though not yet implemented, the project has already sparked big controversy. ProSavana has been discussed in secrecy without the involvement of people living in the area, Jeremias Vunjanhe, director of Adecru, a Maputo-based NGO supporting rural communities, said.

The first time we heard about the programme was through an interview that agriculture minister Jos Pacheco gave to a Brazilian newspaper, claiming he wanted to replicate the experience of Brazil 30 years ago, Vunjanhe said.

In the same article, some Brazilian entrepreneurs were quoted as enthusiastically embracing the idea of moving to Mozambique, where they were promised land for very low rent.

Carlos Ernesto Augustin, president of the Mato Grosso Cotton Producers Association, reportedly said that Mozambique is a Mato Grosso in the middle of Africa, with free land, without environmental impediments, and with much cheaper freight to China.

Since then, a campaign called Nao ao ProSavana (No to ProSavana) has been launched to challenge the project. Together with other activists, farmers organisations and religious leaders, Vunjanhe has extensively travelled across the region to gather information and carry out his advocacy work among the communities.

Demonstrations have been organised both in the capital, Maputo and in Nampula, the largest town in the Nacala corridor. We urged the government to give us more information. It was clear they wanted to lease our land to foreign companies. We could not accept it. We are already lacking land for ourselves, Costa Estevao, provincial president in Nampula of the Uniao Nacional de Camponeses (UNAC), Mozambiques national farmers union, said.

Started as a local grassroots movement, the campaign has gained momentum. In 2014, 23 Mozambican and 43 international organisations signed an open letter to the governments of Japan, Brazil and Mozambique, complaining about the lack of information and the absence of a broad public debate about the plan. The advocacy work and the letter proved successful.

Some Japanese civil society organisations joined the campaign and a debate was eventually organised in Tokyo, at the national parliament. As a result of the concerns voiced by the organisations, the Japanese International Cooperation Agency reviewed its first draft plan.

Initially we wanted to replicate the Mato Grosso model. But, after a while, we realised the conditions here are different, the territory is much more densely populated and also the needs are not the same. Now, we focus on smallholders. We want to provide them with the necessary know-how to produce more and increase national food sovereignty, Hiroshi Yokoyama, responsible for ProSavana at JICA, said.

At the agencys headquarters in central Maputo, the capital, the officer recognises there have been some problems and delays but he is still confident the plan will go ahead.

Mozambican authorities say the project will benefit small, medium and big famers [Enrico Parenti/Al Jazeera]

Meanwhile, the Mozambican government says it has no intention of throwing farmers off their land.

We have never meant to evict local farmers, nor to lease their land to foreign companies, Antonio Limbau, national coordinator of ProSavana at the Ministry of Agriculture, said.

The actual goals of the project have been misunderstood. ProSavana has always been a programme in support of agriculture. It will benefit small, medium and big famers in an integrated way. We want to enhance development, Limbau added.

The national coordinator of ProSavana stands firm on the view that the programme will be implemented: ProSavana right now is stalled, but it will be resumed.

Yet the initial highly ambitious goals have been scaled down; the Brazilian entrepreneurs expected to come from Mato Grosso never showed up; the funds promised by Japan are still frozen; a new master plan is in the process to be written. We are involving the local communities in the discussion, Limbau said.

We have experience of many failed projects because the government thought that it alone was capable of deciding. The new draft indicates a change of attitude, Antonio Mutoua, president of Provincial Platform of Organisations of Civil Society of Nampula (PPOSC-N), said. In the new framework that takes into account local needs. We are eager to collaborate.

We have undoubtedly obtained a great victory, Vunjanhe said. The mobilisation forced the government to change the narrative and stop offering publicly our land to foreign actors. But we are afraid their original idea has not really changed. We therefore need to remain very vigilant, he added.

No to ProSavana has been one of Mozambiques most successful civil society campaigns, proving that an alliance of local groups and international NGOs can change policy, says professor Joseph Hanlon, expert on Mozambique at the Open University of Milton Keynes, UK.

This story was reported with support from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.Civilians are resorting to herbal medicines and faith-based treatments as a cheaper option in the war-ravaged country.

Sanaa, Yemen  Mohammed Saif turned to herbal and faith-based treatments last year despite doctors warning they would not be safe, or even effective.

The 40-year-old used to take anticholinergics to treat irritable bowel syndrome. But in a country ravaged by war, medical treatment had become nearly impossible for him to access.

I couldnt afford to see a doctor, and no one could help me cover the costs of my medical expenses, said Saif, the sole breadwinner of his family of five.

Ive been taking herbs for over a year now and it causes no side effects. The only shortcoming is that they dont cure most diseases.

Over the past three years, Yemenis seeking unproven natural remedies has become the norm in many parts of the country, he said, with a growing number looking for a cheaper way to treat their ailments.

But these holistic remedies are far cry from the medical care most Yemenis received before the conflict began.

Ignorance is the reason behind the spread of herbal products. Educated people would not opt for this type of treatment. Only the poor and the illiterate would go to homeopathic centres. Naser al-Salahi, doctor

More than 70 percent of the population had access to healthcare before 2015. Now, none of the countrys major hospitals provide the same level of service as before.

The cost of most medicines has also risen sharply with some drugs experiencing a price hike of more than 300 percent, making it unaffordable for most families to obtain treatment.

Malnutrition and disease are rampant as basic services collapse, said Meritxell Relano, UNICEFs representative in Yemen.

Those who survive are likely to carry the physical and psychological scars of this conflict for the rest of their lives.

Customer surge

Yemens civil war escalated in March 2015 when a Saudi-led coalition launched a military operation against Houthi rebels after they overran much of the country.

Since then, more than 10,000 people have been killed directly by the fighting, while millions have been driven from their homes.

The humanitarian situation has been further compounded by the Arab coalitions decision to impose tighter restrictions on the countrys ports.





Aimed at stemming the flow of weapons to the Houthis, a de facto blockade has had a debilitating effect on the civilian population, as more than 18 million Yemenis live in rebel-held areas.

According to the UN, the healthcare system has never been more precarious with only 45 percent of facilities left standing, with limited functionality.

Im seeing a surge of customers, said Ahmed al-Sarori, the owner of an alternative medicine centre in Sanaa.

People are flooding in with skin-related diseases. I give them either a herbal ointment, syrup or powder, and the results are [overwhelmingly] positive.

Herbs are not the only option Sarori is offering up. He also uses verses of the Quran to assist some of his customers.

We also treat those suffering from black magic and evil eye, he said.

The patient just needs to sit and read a few passages of the Quran. Some are treated after a few sessions. Those with chronic problems, need longer.

Avoiding unemployment

The shift towards alternative medicine comes amid deteriorating economic and social conditions in the country.

The Yemeni government all but stopped funding the public health sector in late 2016, when it decided to shift the Central Bank from the Houthi-controlled capital to the southern port city of Aden.

The situation resulted in many doctors and hospital staff, and about 1.2 million civil servants, not receiving their salaries.

The World Bank said the decision exacerbated the vulnerabilities of the fragile economy with the GDP contracting by 37.5 percent cumulatively since 2015.

Maki Saleh, a science teacher in Sanaa, said employment opportunities in the private sector significantly diminished.

Some open homeopathy centres to eke out a living and make ends meet. Their purpose is not only in providing health solutions, but also avoiding unemployment.

An inexpensive alternative to modern medicine, Saleh suggested the rise in herbal medicine was because of exorbitant hospital costs.

Some people prefer alternative medicine because they cant afford to pay their medical bills. Unfortunately, they may not benefit [in the long term] and some may die.

Ignorance

With fighting on the ground showing no signs of abating, and Saudi Arabia continuing to launch air strikes against Houthi targets, the conflict has created the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.





The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported more than one million cholera cases, and there have also been outbreaks of diphtheria, a disease that was once nearly eradicated worldwide.

Naser al-Salahi, a doctor in the capital, said preventable diseases had now become genuine threats.

Ignorance is the reason behind the spread of herbal products. Educated people would not opt for this type of treatment. Only the poor and the illiterate would go to homeopathic centres, he said.

Salahi blamed the absence of a central government for the opening of unlicensed health centres and the lack of oversight.

Alternative medicine could be fine for a few cases, but the providers of such services are doing so with a blatant lack of knowledge and only for profit.

This poses a real danger to peoples health in the future.Paoua, Central African Republic  When rebels attacked her village, Delphine Lokaingoto was still too weak from childbirth to lift more than one of her children at a time.

As she snatched up her four-day-old baby, she told the others  aged three, four and six  to run to the fields.

Some of the Seleka were on horses, she said. We started to run away, and thats when they shot my children and my husband.

Lokaingoto then watched from the bush as the rebels, from the ex-Seleka led National Movement for the Liberation of the Central African Republic (MNLC), began burning the bodies and houses in her village, Beogombo IV.

Carrying nothing but her one remaining child, she walked for three days to reach Paoua town.

Forced displacement in the Central African Republic (CAR) has reached record levels as the countrys ever-expanding number of armed groups aggressively seek control of territory ahead of the April onset of the rainy season.

Paoua town is now hosting more than 65,000 displaced people since late December in rural Ouham-Pende prefecture near the Chad border, where the latest chapter in CARs five-year conflict is unfolding. The upsurge of violence in 2017-2018 has driven the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) up to 688,700, the highest figure since the crisis began in 2013, with another 542,380 refugees hosted in neighbouring countries, according to figures from the UN.

Analysts see the increasing frequency of attacks on civilians and clashes between armed groups as a bellwether that could signal an expanding conflict across the country and a much larger humanitarian crisis on the horizon.

In 2015 and 2016 there was real space for optimism, there was a new government, and armed groups were decreasing their attacks on civilians, said Lewis Mudge, a senior researcher in the Africa Division of Human Rights Watch (HRW). This changed in 2017, and we are now seeing levels of violence tied to the crisis of 2013. Groups are more emboldened than ever to commit war crimes.

Things are moving very fast. The more area armed groups want to control, the more people are going to be displaced, said Joseph Inganji, the head of office for UNOCHA in CAR. And all of this is coming at a time when the government is still lacking the capacity to cater for the basic social services of its citizens.

Yale University professor Louisa Lombard, whose research focuses on CAR, said that the presence of a large UN peacekeeping mission will probably prevent a return to a full civil war but that attacks that can be quite devastating for people and that shift in terms of geography depending on which areas are not protected and/or provide other resources are likely to continue.Recent developments in Syria remind us how convoluted the countrys multi party conflict is. The Syrian regime used a Russian made S-200 anti-aircraft missiles to shoot down an American made F-16I retaliating to the intrusion of an Iranian made unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Most importantly, however, these developments gave Israel a reality check that it has no allies in this tug of war next door.

While the exchange of fire was described as unprecedented, it was not an unusual pattern. Hezbollah has been flying drones over Israel since 2012 and Israel has been repeatedly targeting both the Syrian regime and the Iranian arms shipment to the Lebanese group. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Moscow on January 29 and his cabinet met in the Golan Heights on February 7, which were indications that Israel was considering air attacks. Whats unique though about the latest confrontation is the Syrian regimes retaliation and its accidental ability to incapacitate the Israeli F-16, which raised questions whether new rules of engagement are being set. The short answer is no, heres why.

The dynamics that set the context of these air attacks persist. Israel remains the leading opposition against the US-Russian agreement in Syria reached last July. These air attacks were a message to Washington and Moscow as much as they were to Iran. It is also increasingly obvious that Israel goes to Moscow, not Washington, on all issues related to Syria, including when launching air attacks. Israel can often push the envelope but will not risk a political clash in Syria with both the US and Russia.

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The fact is the US and Israeli interests are not aligned in Syria since 2014, when former President Barack Obama Administration decided to coexist with Iran in parallel battles against the so-called Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. The Pentagon, under President Donald Trump, maintained this tacit understanding and reaffirmed the top priority of protecting US troops and long-term interests in northern Syria. In return, Israels top priority is to prevent Iran from establishing a permanent presence in Syria and a supply line to Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Russia remains until further notice the kingmaker in Syria. While Iran and Israel are trading threats, we are not entering a new strategic era, as Hezbollah has claimed. There is no deterrence between an Iranian made drone and an American made F-16, both in the Syrian air with Russian consent. In November 2016, Russia has repaired the Syrian S-200 to operational status, which practically means that no missile can likely be launched without prior knowledge from Moscow, most notably if the target was Israel. Russias latest intricate balance between allowing Israel to launch air attacks and the Syrian regime to respond is a dangerous game that solidifies Moscows powerbroker status.

Both Israel and Iran gained from that brief confrontation as they maneuver their psychological and intelligence wars. Israel managed to shift attention to the issue of deterring Iran as the US and Russia are preoccupied with Turkey, the second neighbouring country seeking to alter the Syrian status quo.

Israel has flexed its muscles in Syria but achieved no strategic objective. Netanyahu, who is battling serious corruption charges, cannot find a better scenario to show how invaluable he is to Israeli politics. The Syrian regime gained a needed propaganda tool about its fighting capabilities to prop up the base and distract from the military operations in the outskirts of Damascus. Beyond that, nothing has changed on the ground. The reason why it is the first time in 36 years an advanced Israeli weaponry was shot down is that Israel did not confront a traditional Arab military since 1982.

This latest turmoil also reminded Israel it has no allies in Syria nor control over developments. The Kremlin urged Israel to deescalate tensions while the White Houses message to Iran was to merely cease provocative actions and work toward regional peace. The US has been asking Israel to rein in its rhetoric against Lebanon and to show restraints in Syria. However, the Israeli cabinets rational on February 11 was we will continue to harm anyone who tries to harm us, a rule of retaliation that can only go so far.

Indeed, uncertainty in Syria is making Israel anxious. Netanyahus end goal seems to be making amendments to the US-Russian agreement and creating a wedge between Iran and the Syrian regime, which are both improbable outcomes. There are no indications that a full-fledged war between Iran and Israel is feasible in the short and medium term. However, the risks are high in the long term, as the dominant powers turn the page of their proxy wars and begin to rethink their postures in Syria.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.Martine Landry was charged with aiding two Guinean asylum seekers on the French side of the France-Italy border.

Martine Landry said she did nothing wrong.

In fact, the 73-year-old human rights activist said she would do it again.

Im going to continue, Landry told Al Jazeera in a telephone interview from Menton, a town in southeastern France near the border with Italy.

I know Im within my rights and I want to assert my rights.

But Landry said those rights were put in question during an incident last July.

According to the activist, she was standing on the French side of the Menton-Vintimille border crossing between France and Italy when she witnessed Italian police forcibly return two young men to French territory.

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She said she took that to indicate the pair were minors who had been in France before setting foot in Italy, which means its up to the French to take care of their protection.

She waited for the teenagers  whom she later learned were both 15-year-old Guinean asylum seekers  to cross into France and then walked them to a border police station nearby, she said.

There, she said, she helped the children deliver a written document requesting they be placed in the custody of Frances child welfare agency, which is where they remain.

Under French law, the agency is required to take underage, foreign nationals who enter France unaccompanied into its care, Landry said.

The police is obliged [to do that] because its the law, she added. There is absolutely nothing illegal in that.

Emblematic case

But Landry, who works with the French branch of Amnesty International and Anafe, a group that provides assistance to foreign nationals at French borders, now faces criminal charges for her actions.

She is accused of having aided the entry of two foreign minors in an irregular situation, Amnesty said last month, a criminal charge that comes with a maximum five-year prison term and 30,000 euro (about $37,000) fine.

I didnt facilitate [their] entry, I didnt cross the border with them, she said. I simply brought them to the police station, which is what I was meant to do.

Her next court hearing is set for Wednesday in Nice.

Landrys case is emblematic of a wider crackdown aimed at preventing French citizens from helping asylum seekers, said Laure Palun, general coordinator of Anafe, the organisation that helps foreigners arriving at Frances borders.

In the area of Menton, in Frances Provence-Alpes-Cote dAzur region, at least a dozen people have been charged for aiding asylum seekers and minors, while another 40 people have been charged in the French Alps, Palun told Al Jazeera.

Instead of respecting its own legislation  the states response is to intimidate and put pressure on activists and those who are acting to defend human rights, she said.





Cedric Herrou, a French farmer and activist, was given a four-month, suspended jail sentence last year for aiding asylum seekers over the Italian border and inside France, where he has provided them with shelter, food and transportation.

A 2012 French law provides an exemption to the law against aiding foreigners in irregular situations in humanitarian and selfless cases.

However Palun said that since the French government declared a state of emergency in 2015, following a string of deadly attacks in Paris, it has enacted stricter controls and sent tens of thousands of asylum seekers back at its borders.

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More than 50,000 asylum seekers were refused entry into France last year, Palun said, and two-fifths of those were minors.

Last month, French police reportedly arrested a 12-year-old Eritrean asylum seeker at a train station in Menton, Anafe said.

The child was officially denied entry and sent back to Italy on a train that same day, prompting a court in Nice to later sanction the French authorities for their illegal actions.

Its enormous, Palun said, adding that the crackdown has pushed asylum seekers to take riskier routes into the country.

Some people hide in trains, go on the roof of trains, walk on autoroutes  Were notably seeing people go higher and higher into the Alps and taking routes that are more and more dangerous.

Those people are putting themselves in danger because France is not respecting the procedures, Palun said.

French policy overhaul

The French interior ministry said the government does not look to sanction volunteers who help migrants in need of humanitarian assistance.

France applies legal, non-admission procedures at the French-Italian border, which allow [officials] to notify people with refusals of entry when they arrive there, the ministry told Al Jazeera in an emailed statement.

The ministry told Al Jazeera that France registered 85,000 non-admissions at its borders last year, about half of which were at the French-Italian border.

France does not manage the migration crisis in an isolated way, but in coordination with its European partners, notably Italy, in order to assure the full efficiency of the right to asylum, the ministry said.

In total, France received 100,412 asylum requests in 2017. Just over 24,000 of those requests were granted among the 47,814 decisions that were rendered last year, according to government statistics.

But in September, French President Emmanuel Macron promised a complete overhaul of Frances asylum and immigration policies. A new set of laws on asylum and immigration will be presented to the council of ministers on February 21, the interior ministry said.

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We are showing out far too few, Macron said last year, adding that France leaves hundreds of thousands of people in an administrative no mans land.

Le Monde reported in December that the governments new policies are expected to show unprecedented severity and unprecedented roughness.

Under the new procedures, migrants will have 90 days to file an asylum claim in France, down from 120 days previously, the newspaper reported.

Liberation, another French newspaper, said the laws are expected to simultaneously accelerate the processing of asylum claims and increase the number of expulsions.

The French government also organised a meeting between European and African leaders last year that aimed to find ways to stem the flow of asylum seekers leaving North Africa for Europe.

A protester in Menton holds a sign that reads No to the border of shame [Eric Gaillard/Reuters]

For Landry, the French governments position towards undocumented migration has considerably hardened.

Europe is barricading itself and they are doing everything in their power to not take in refugees, she said.

She added that her arrest is part of a larger effort to make sure people dont show solidarity with asylum seekers.

Thats the goal  to in fact intimidate others so that people dont get involved in this type of fight, Landry said.

But she said despite her ongoing court case, she can not look away from what is happening at the French border.

When I discovered that, just outside my front door, migrants were being sent back, their fundamental rights completely trampled upon  I had to do it, because it was right there.Pro-government forces targeted by attacker who worked alongside them for months, Afghan officials say.

A Taliban infiltrator has killed 16 pro-government militia fighters in Afghanistans Helmand province.

The attacker had been fighting alongside the militia for months before turning his gun on them on Saturday night, at a checkpoint in the Gereshk district.

We know that a Taliban fighter killed 16 militiamen fighting alongside government forces, but who these forces belong to, we dont know yet, a spokesman for Helmands governor told Reuters news agency on Monday.

Local media said the Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. The attacker managed to join the armed group after fleeing the checkpoint with weapons, TOLOnews reported.

Large swaths of Afghanistans Helmand province  the countrys opium production hub  are currently under control of the Afghan Taliban.

Green on blue

So-called green-on-blue attacks  where Afghan soldiers or police with Taliban sympathies turn their guns on colleagues  have been a major problem for Afghan and foreign forces.

Last June, three US soldiers were fatally shot and a fourth was wounded in eastern Afghanistan by an Afghan army soldier.

The killings have bred fierce mistrust between local and foreign forces, even as the rate of such incidents has dropped in recent years.

Such attacks are sometimes planned by the Taliban, but, mostly, they are caused by minor disagreements between the two sides.Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is widely popular. Heres what we know about it.

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or the Lunar New Year, is one of the most celebrated events worldwide. The date of celebration varies every year.

The traditions and celebrations go back in time and are transmitted from generation to generation; they welcome health, wealth and good relationships to come in the new year.

When and where is it celebrated?

Every year, the Chinese New Year starts on the new moon occurring between January 21 and February 20. This year, that will be on Friday, February 16.

In 2017, the first day of the New Year was on January 28. The celebration lasts 15 days.

It is celebrated in China and countries that have a significant Chinese population, including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Mauritius, Australia, and the Philippines.

The Chinese calendar is based on the cycle of the moon. A month in this calendar is 28 days long, and an average year lasts from 353 to 355 days.

What does it commemorate?

Chinese New Year festivities are an opportunity to honour deities as well as ancestors.

It is believed that they originated during the Shang Dynasty when people held ceremonies in honour of gods and ancestors at the beginning of the year.

China adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1911, so the festivities were renamed the Spring Festival.

The celebration is rich in stories and myths. One of the most popular is about the mythical beast Nian, who would come down to the village on the first day of the year and eat livestock, crops and people. To keep him away, people would leave food at their doors, hang red decorations everywhere and set off firecrackers to frighten him away.

How is it celebrated?

The Chinese New Year is an occasion for families to gather and celebrate. It is known for being highly colourful, with people lighting fireworks and watching traditional lion dances.

On Spring Festival Eve, many people set off fireworks and firecrackers, hoping to keep away bad luck.

It is traditional for every family to clean their house to sweep away any ill-fortune and make way for incoming good luck.

Windows and doors are decorated with red paper strips and couplets about good fortune, wealth and longevity. Red symbolises good fortune in Chinese tradition; children are given red envelopes of money.

The family dinner is one of the most important meals for Chinese families. Getting home for that dinner leads to one of Chinas biggest migrations every year.

In 2018, Chinese are expected to make nearly three million trips from February to March.

Chinese Zodiac

The Chinese Zodiac moves in a 12-year cycle; those born in 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, and 2018 are born in the Year of the Dog.

According to Asian astrology, your year of birth  and the animal it represents  set many of your personality traits.

People born in the Year of the Dog are described as independent, sincere, communicative and loyal.

In Pictures

Sitting around a festive table in Wuhan, Hubei [Wang He/Getty Images]

A dish in the shape of a dog stands over the table on February 9 [Wang He/Getty Images]

Celebrations at a shopping centre before Lunar New Year in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia [Sadiq Asyraf/AP]Rights groups slam Philippine president for the latest in a series of derogatory and demeaning comments about women.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has drawn condemnation from human rights watchdogs and womens groups, after he said that female communist rebels in the country should be shot in their private parts as punishment for fighting the government.

Dutertes declaration is just the latest in a series of misogynist, derogatory and demeaning statements he has made about women, Human Rights Watch said in a statement sent to Al Jazeera on Monday.

It encourages state forces to commit sexual violence during armed conflict, which is a violation of international humanitarian law, Carlos Conde, a Human Rights Watch representative in the Philippines, said.

According to a government transcript of a speech he delivered on February 7, Duterte said Philippine soldiers should not kill women rebel fighters.

We will just shoot your [genitals], so that if there are no more [genitals], you would be useless, Duterte said using a word in his native Visayan, a language spoken in central and southern Philippines.

The president also chastised female fighters for abandoning their children and families, in order to join the communist movement.

Emmi de Jesus, a Congress member representing the Gabriela Womens Party, denounced Dutertes nasty remark, saying it contributes to the culture of impunity in the country.

De Jesus said the president further confirms himself as the most dangerous macho-fascist in the government right now.

She added that Duterte is taking state terrorism against women and the people to a whole new level, and pushing soldiers to commit more bloody human rights violations and grave abuses of international humanitarian law.

Spokesman: Dutertes jokes funny

Duterte has been under fire several times for making misogynistic comments.

In January, during his visit to India, he told a group of Indian and Filipino business leaders in New Delhi that he would like to attract visitors to the Philippines by offering 42 virgins.

In July 2017, he also made rape jokes while talking about Miss Universe.

Two months earlier, Duterte told soldiers fighting Muslim armed fighters in Marawi that they could rape up to three women without getting punished.

Ill imprison you myself, he said, referring to soldiers who commit violations. Then he said: If you had raped three, I will admit it, thats on me.

In the lead-up to his presidential election win in 2016, critics were outraged when he recalled a 1989 prison riot in which an Australian missionary was killed, and inmates had lined up to rape her.

Duterte said the victim was beautiful and as mayor of Davao City, where the riot took place, he should have been first in line. He later apologised and said he did not intend to disrespect women or rape victims.

On Wednesday, Harry Roque, Dutertes spokesman, defended the presidents string of sexist comments, saying critics should lighten up.

You know, sometimes, these feminists are really a bit OA, Roque said using the Filipino term to mean over-acting.

I mean, thats funny. Come on. Just laugh, he told a pro-Duterte social media personality, adding that people identify with his humour.

The Duterte administration has been engaged in an on and off peace negotiations with the communist rebels in the Philippines, since he came into office in mid-2016.

But following new clashes between government forces and rebel fighters in 2017, Duterte signed a proclamation labelling the communist fighters as a terrorist group, essentially breaking off the peace process.

He has also ordered the arrest of several community leaders.

The Communist Party of the Philippines launched a rebellion in 1968 that has so far claimed the lives of more than 30,000 people.Egypt steps up operations involving the countrys army, navy and air force, aimed at pushing armed groups.

Egypts army said it has killed at least 12 more suspected fighters and arrested almost 100 in a major military operation launched in the northern Sinai Peninsula.

The military released the latest figures on Monday, according to state media, a day after claiming at least 16 fighters had been killed earlier as part of the same operation.

The air force also hit 60 targets, including vehicles, weapons depots, and communication centres, the military statement on Monday said.

The armys casualty numbers could not be independently verified.





Egypt launched a comprehensive security operation involving the countrys army, navy and air force, aimed at pushing armed groups out of the Sinai Peninsula, parts of the Nile Delta and the Western Delta on Friday.

Egypt has, for years, battled an armed anti-government campaign in the rugged and thinly populated Sinai Peninsula, which has gained pace since the military overthrew democratically-elected President Mohamed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood in mid-2013.

In November 2017, at least 235 people were killed in a bomb and gun attack on a mosque in Bir al-Abed, a town in North Sinai province.

Afterwards, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi gave a three-month deadline to restore order in the region, using all brute force necessary.

Egypt will go to the polls next month, in a vote with little opposition that Sisi looks poised to easily win.As Daily Stormer struggles to keep an online home, a new anti-fascist site aims to track neo-Nazis meetings in the US.

A new anti-fascist website tracks the location and activities of people affiliated with Daily Stormer, one of the largest neo-Nazi websites in the United States.

Launched on January 28, FashMaps is an activist-run initiative that seeks to inform local communities about the presence and gatherings of neo-Nazis in their area.

Simon, a systems analyst who spoke to Al Jazeera with a pseudonym, launched FashMaps for the purpose of education and awareness.

According to Simon, a four-person team uses fake accounts to monitor Daily Stormer forum discussions and pin down when and where they plan to hold events, which they often refer to as book clubs and pool parties.

It is important to be aware of these groups because, as they grow in numbers, they also grow in influence beyond their immediate circle, he told Al Jazeera.

When that influence creeps into positions where it has no business being  such as a public office, a school teacher, a police officer  it creates a serious threat to both the safety and civil rights of any person [whom] fascists see as less than themselves.

At the time of its launch, FashMaps had around 700 pins signifying Daily Stormer meet-ups in cities and towns in almost every state across the US, and to a lesser degree, in Canada, the UK, Australia and Southeast Asia.

Added points in Canada, Australia, South America. Be sure to clear your browser cache to view new data. More coming soon!https://t.co/RK6tfaLUqD  FashMaps (@fashmaps) February 1, 2018

The far right has grown throughout the campaign and presidency of right-wing President Donald Trump, with groups proliferating across the country.

According to the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), an Alabama-based hate monitor, there were 917 hate groups in the US as of 2016.

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Among those were 30 Ku Klux Klan chapters, 100 white nationalist organisations and 99 neo-Nazi groups.

For Simon, choosing to put a focus on Daily Stormer was an easy decision.

It was low-hanging fruit, and publicly available for others to see, he said, explaining that the SPLCs designation of Daily Stormer as a hate group saves us the trouble of having to make the case that the people who seek to organise on that particular forum actually subscribe, to some degree or another, to neo-Nazi ideologies.

Never an advantage to lose a platform

Daily Stormer, which was named after the German Nazi-era publication Der Sturmer, has been forced to hop from one web host to the next, owing to growing public backlash in the wake of the deadly Charlottesville rally on August 12, 2017.

The website was founded in 2013 by Andrew Anglin, who is currently being sued by the SPLC and Tanya Gersh, a Jewish lawyer in Montana, for inspiring a storm of threats and harassment against Gersh in December 2016.

During the August rally in Charlottesville  dubbed Unite the Right  thousands of white supremacists, white nationalists and neo-Nazis converged on the Virginia city to demonstrate against plans to remove a Confederate monument.

Daily Stormer had been issuing marching orders to Unite the Right attendees in the days leading up to the demonstration.

Participants clashed with community members, anti-fascists and anti-racist activists throughout the day.

The demonstration culminated with James Alex Fields, who had been photographed earlier in the day marching with neo-Nazis, allegedly ploughing his car into a crowd, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring dozens more.

Following the bloodshed, GoDaddy, the Daily Stormers web-hosting service, booted the neo-Nazi site over an article referring to the late Heyer as a fat skank.

White supremacists clash with counterprotesters in Charlottesville [File: Joshua Roberts/Reuters]

The Daily Stormer has since alternated between various web hosts and the dark web, struggling to maintain a stable online address.

The websites founder, Anglin, and several of its contributors have also been expelled from Twitter, Facebook and other social media outlets as part of the post-Charlottesville backlash.

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Spencer Sunshine, an associate fellow at Political Research Associates, explained that it is difficult to gauge the extent of harm the Daily Stormers inability to find a permanent online home has had on its influence.

But it couldnt have helped, he told Al Jazeera, and my general impression is that its harmed them. Its never an advantage to lose a platform.

The far-right movement has also become the target of doxxing, a practice in which activists conduct research and post online identities, addresses and other personal information of neo-Nazis and white supremacists.

If citizens remain silent, fascism will win

For his part, Simon said that FashMaps does not post the locations of Daily Stormer meet-ups with the hopes of inspiring violence or harassment. All of the information Simon and his team publish is already publicly available.

Identities and other identifying information are not posted anywhere on our site, he noted. And, in reality, our map operates more like a heat map than anything else  But we link to the source of our data as proof of our findings.

He added: By showing people they have a growing problem in their community, it can move them to become more involved in both speaking out against fascism and educating others on the problem in their community.

Describing Daily Stormer and similar sites as propaganda, Simon argued that there is a direct connection between street-level violence and the type of racist and white supremacist content posted on these websites.

Propaganda reinforces beliefs that are intimately connected to deep-seated emotions of fear, anger and hate, he said.

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They can then resolve themselves to violence, which forces the eyes of the world to stop and actually look at them. And when that happens, they are given an amplified platform to spread their ideology even further, Simon continued, adding that several Daily Stormer contributors were present at the Charlottesville rally last August.

Last month, the Anti Defamation League released a report that found 18 people were killed by white supremacists in 2017.

Simon concluded: If citizens remain silent, fascism will win.Iraq seeks $100 billion from donors for post-ISIL reconstruction

Iraq seeks around $100 billion in foreign investment in transport, energy and agriculture as part of a plan to rebuild parts of the country and revive the economy after a three-year war on ISIL.government seeks $90bn for reconstruction.

ByTit-for-tat exchanges between Israel and Iran-backed Syria confront Russia with challenge of keeping a lid on tensions.

A surge in Israeli-Syrian cross-border incidents has turned into the biggest confrontation between the two countries in decades and confronted Russia with a new dilemma: how to preserve its ties with both sides.

The tit-for-tat attacks, which started on Saturday and continued until the following day, have been accompanied by a war of words, with Benjamin Netanyahu warning that Israel would continue to strike against any aggression.

We dealt severe blows to the Iranian and Syrian forces, Netanyahu said, referring to Iranian bases present inside Syria.

The toughest Israeli aerial assault on Syrian and Iranian bases was reportedly in response to Syrian forces shooting down an Israeli fighter jet on Saturday and claims that an Iranian drone entered Israeli airspace.

The attacks, which killed at least six Syrian troops and allied militia members, targeted areas near the Syrian capital Damascus, with Israel warning about increased Iranian involvement along its borders with Syria and Lebanon.

A statement by the pro-government military alliance in Syria had said that the drones were being used against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) group fighters.





But Israels chief military spokesperson said Israel held Iran directly accountable for the incident.

On Saturday, Netanyahu told Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone that Israel intended to counter Irans actions, while Putin urged the Israeli leader to avoid any steps that could escalate tensions.

Russia, a strategic ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has maintained close relations with Netanyahu, who has been blaming Iranian paramilitary units in Syria of breaching its sovereignty by carrying out over-the-border attacks over the past six years.

The frequency of Israeli raids has intensified since 2012 when Iranian paramilitary fighters entered Syria following the start of the Syrian civil war.

Israel has never publicly admitted to such attacks, which vary from firing rockets to air raids.

Experts believe that the latest development forced Israel into admitting that it had launched attacks due to the shooting down of its F-16 fighter jet  the first time Israel had lost an aircraft to enemy fire.

This was a major loss and defeat for Israel, and I dont think that this is something the [Israeli] regime could cover up, Mohammad Marandi, an academic at the University of Tehran, told Al Jazeera.

The Israelis are using Iran as a scapegoat  to be able to carry out attacks on regional countries and justify the continued subjugation of the Palestinian people.

Irans presence in Syria has officially been aimed at combating ISIL, al-Qaeda and its affiliates. Marandi says Israel is supporting these groups on its borders.

Weakening neighbours

Israel and Syria have been at the brink of war ever since Israel occupied a part of the strategic Golan Heights that it annexed following the 1967 Six Day War.

The move played a role in Israels decision to refrain from getting involved in the Syrian conflict.

Its occasional attacks against Syrian targets have been to stop what it describes as the delivery of advanced weaponry to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah, whose fighters are present in southern Lebanon.

Marandi says the issue is not Iran and its influence. Rather, it is Israels attempt at weakening the Syrian

government, which along with Iran, is attempting to push al-Qaeda out of the country.

In 2016, former Mossad director Efraim Halevy revealed to Al Jazeera that Israel maintained tactical relations with al-Nusra Front  al-Qaedas former affiliate in Syria.

Its always useful [] to deal with your enemies in a humane way, Halevy said, revealing that Israel used to treat wounded fighters from al-Nusra Front.

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He also said that he would not support the treatment of wounded Hezbollah fighters because Hezbollah had targeted Israel.

When asked if a war between Hezbollah and Israel is imminent, Marandi said that it would not be in Israels favour.

However, others believe that Russia  an ally of Syria, Iran, and Israel  is the only party that can limit the possibility of an upcoming regional war.

Following the latest attacks, Israel protested against Irans presence and growing power in Syria.

At the beginning, Israel and the US did not object to its [Iran] presence in Syria because back then, the opposition had the upper hand and the Syrian regime was on brink of defeat, Omar Kouch, a Syrian political analyst, told Al Jazeera.

Up until 2016, when Russia intervened, the balance of power shifted in favour of the Syrian regime, Kouch explained.

Israel did not want the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assads government. Its issue is not with the regime; its issue is with Iran, which threatens its security, he said.

This is why several Israeli attacks in 2016, 2017, and today in 2018, were carried out.

Rockets of various kinds

According to Kouch, Iran knew that such attacks would occur.

Iran and Syria were prepared, and several rockets of various kinds were fired, he said.

On Saturday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said his country was ready to defend the region and warned that increasing terrorism  bombing neighbouring countries would not achieve Israels objectives.

But a full-frontal war is unlikely at this time, Kouch believes, as Russia is trying to maintain its alliance with Iran and Israel simultaneously.

These two equations [Irans influence in the region and Israels security concerns] are very difficult to balance  both projects are colonialist projects that are hugely conflicted, he said.





And the presence of the many players make such frictions inevitable.

Last month, Netanyahu met Putin in Moscow to discuss Israeli concerns over Irans presence in Syria.

I will discuss with President Putin Irans relentless efforts to establish a military presence in Syria, which we strongly oppose and are also taking action against, Netanyahu had said.

Ofer Zalzberg, an Israeli analyst with the International Crisis Group, said that Israel would inspect the drone from Saturdays incident and try to demonstrate that it was indeed Iranian, in spite of Tehrans denials.

Zalzberg also agreed that Russias alliance with both parties could thwart a potential escalation and perhaps meet each partys demands.

If anyone can broker a reality in which Israel succeeds in its endeavour to stop Iranian bases from being permanently set up in Syria, and Iran succeeds in keeping Damascus a cooperative partner  it is Russia, he said.

The ongoing border violence is unlikely to stop, experts Al Jazeera spoke to predicted, a fact that puts civilian lives continuously at risk.

Ultimately, the only losers here are the Syrian people and the Syrian revolution, said Kouch.Al Jazeera speaks to several men who have quit the army over their moral objections to the occupation.

When Adam Maor was released from prison after refusing to serve in the Israeli army as a conscientious objector, he left his native land for an eight-year stay in Europe.

I really felt a need to get away for a while, said the 34-year old, who served 21 months in various forms of incarceration between the winter of 2002 and September 2004.

I started my studies in Geneva, Switzerland  and I also lived some time in Paris, before returning home to Israel.

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Maor was part of a publicised group of five refuseniks who defied Israels compulsory military service laws and refused to serve as a stand against the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Back in November 2003  two years before Israel disengaged from Gaza  Al Jazeera reported: The Israeli organisation, Courage to Refuse, claims that there are 1,000 Israelis who are refusing military duty for one reason or another, and a further 562 have pledged not to sign up.

Today, Maor, whose total refusal to serve in the army inspired a high-profile court case that led many to believe that both he and his fellow objectors were being made an example of in order to deter others, is a newly married man and works as a composer.

But, for the current Jaffa-resident and many other past objectors, their decision to defy the land of their birth remains a stark memory that has faded little with the passing of time.

Some 15 years on, Maor counts his fellow objectors among his closest friends. They include Haggai Matar, who was also part of the five-strong group of conscientious objectors whose decision to go public with their protest brought the wrath of the Israeli authorities upon them.

Matar is today executive director of Israeli-based 972  Advancement of Citizen Journalism, a non-profit publisher that opposes the occupation and provides reporting and analysis of events in Israel and Palestine.

I can say to Palestinians, 'Look, I'm not your average Israeli with the army - I've spent time in prison', in order to tell them that I'm not a part of the system that's oppressing them. Haggai Matar, executive director of 972 Magazine and conscientious objector

Despite a few rough months mentally after his own prison release, the political activist and journalist told Al Jazeera that his past helps him connect with Palestinians.

To have this background of having refused  and especially of having been to prison  plays a role with people, especially with Palestinians, when it comes to credibility and a willingness to work together and to be interviewed, said Matar.

He added: I can say to Palestinians, Look, Im not your average Israeli with the army  Ive spent time in prison, in order to tell them that Im not a part of the system thats oppressing them.

It is very difficult for me to serve

While both Maor and Matar refused outright to serve and spent prison time as a result, others came to their decision after time in the army.

Ron Gerlitz, 44, is today the co-executive director of Sikkuy  an Israel-based organisation that aims to promote equality and partnership between Palestinian and Jewish citizens of Israel. He served in the Israeli navy for six years before becoming a selective objector in 2001.

Gerlitz, who signed the 2002 Courage to Refuse Combatants Letter, continues to serve as a military reservist  but describes the occupation as immoral and will not serve in the occupied West Bank.

The letter was created by soldiers who realised, after time in Gaza, that serving in the army had in fact nothing to do with the defence of the State of Israel.

On a personal level, it is very difficult for me to serve in the Israeli army, said Gerlitz.

He walks the delicate balance of believing that Israels policies towards the Palestinians are profoundly unjust and that, as a sovereign nation, the 8.5 million-populous state has a duty to protect itself.

Ron Gerlitz describes the Israeli occupation as immoral [Courtesy: Ron Gerlitz]

Ofer Shorr, 50, also signed the letter.

He started in the army at 18, believing that the occupation was bad but necessary.

He later signed the letter from the US.

It was easy to do it from the United States where I did not have to pay a personal price, he said.

For me, the big break was looking back and realising that I had done things that I would never have believed, said Shorr, who lives in New York.

And it wasnt even something extreme  I did not kill anybody or torture anybody  just the everyday misery that I was a part of in contributing to the suffering of these poor [Palestinian] people.

Shorr, who calls Israel an apartheid state, admits that his beliefs have seen him lose friends.

But the teacher is looking forward to permanently returning to Israel in the summer with his wife and two children with the mindset of trying to undermine the entire structure of the occupation.

Biggest achievement of my life

So what kind of future do the men see for their restive region?

Matar is pessimistic about any settlement that will see the rights of Palestinians recognised.

He laments what he sees as an ongoing political shift more and more to the right in Israel and an international community that is less and less involved.

Yet, as Israel continues to build settlements in the occupied West Bank and continues to subject the Palestinian people of Gaza to a blockade, so the countrys objectors, who are seen by many Israelis as traitors, keep coming.

Indeed, while their decision to refuse was painful and unpredictable, Matar, Gerlitz and Shorr have no regrets.

Maor, whose musical compositions include political pieces inspired by the Middle Easts travails, also derives a strong sense of pleasure from the bold decision he took as a younger man.

There is nothing Im more proud of in my life than what I did, said Maor, who deplores US President Donald Trumps decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, to Al Jazeera. It is definitely the biggest [achievement] of my life up until now.

Follow Alasdair Soussi on Twitter: @AlasdairSoussiJames Mattis says some fighters of the Kurdish-led SDF are shifting towards Afrin region to fight Turkish troops.

Turkey has legitimate security concerns along its southern border with Syria, James Mattis, the US defence secretary, said, as Turkish forces continued their offensive against Kurdish fighters in Afrin.

Mattis acknowledged that some members of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) had shifted to the Afrin region in Syrias north, amid Turkeys ongoing operation against the coalition of armed groups, Anadolu news agency reported.

The distraction of whats going on up in Afrin right now, which is drawing off some of the [SDF] forces, which have got about 50 percent [of the Afrin region], Mattis told reporters during his flight to Europe on Sunday, adding that the percentage could be less or more.

The US has long supported the SDF as a reliable ally in its fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS), despite strong objections by Ankara, which sees the coalition as the Syrian branch of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).

About 40,000 people have been killed in Turkey since the PKK launched its fight against the Turkish state in 1980s, seeking more autonomy for the Kurds.

Describing Turkey as the only NATO ally facing an active revolt, Mattis also reiterated that Ankara has real security concerns in the region.

They [Turkey] have a legitimate security concern, and we do not dismiss one bit of that, along that border with Syria, he stated, adding that Washington will continue to work closely with Turkey.

Turkey says forces aligned to the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD) in Afrin have launched hundreds of cross-border rocket attacks on Turkey, including dozens since late last month, killing and injuring many civilians.

The Pentagon had previously stated that some PYD/PKK-led SDF elements were shifting its fighters, but did not specify where they were headed.

Mattis is expected to meet his Turkish counterpart Nurettin Canikli in Brussels this week.

Turkey launched what it calls Operation Olive Branch on January 20 to clear PYD/PKK and ISIL from Afrin.UK-based charity Oxfams second-in-command has quit over allegations aid workers paid for sex while on assignments in Haiti and Chad.

Penny Lawrence, Oxfams deputy chief executive, said in a statement on Monday she was ashamed of staff members use of prostitutes in both countries.

Over the last few days we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed to adequately act upon, Lawrence said.

I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfams supporters, the wider development sector and, most of all, the vulnerable people who trusted us.

Staff reportedly used prostitutes in Chad at the charitys staff house. Those allegations followed news reports last week that Oxfam staff paid sex workers while on an aid mission following Haitis devastating 2010 earthquake.

Oxfam fired four staff members for gross misconduct and allowed three others to resign following a 2011 internal inquiry into the sex scandal, the downloading of pornography, and bullying and intimidation during the assignment.

A Times article published on Friday  based on a copy of the internal Oxfam report it obtained  said the country director in Haiti, Roland van Hauwermeiren, was among those allowed to resign after it was revealed he paid for sex at a property rented by the charity.

Lawrence said the charity had been aware of previous allegations made against Hauwermeiren, who served as the acting head of Oxfam in Chad during 2006, before his deployment to Haiti.

It is now clear that these allegations  involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad  were raised before he moved to Haiti, she said.

Funding fallout

The UK government has demanded Oxfam hand over any information concerning staff members involvement in the scandals to their respective governments, as none of the aid workers found guilty of sexual misconduct in Haiti were British nationals.

Penny Mordaunt, secretary of state for international development, also called for Oxfam to confirm plans by the end of this week for handling future allegations with greater transparency, at a meeting with the charitys officials on Monday.

The charity did not inform the department for international development in 2011 that allegations had been made regarding sexual misconduct in Haiti, Mordaunt told reporters following the meeting.









I told Oxfam they must now demonstrate the moral leadership necessary to address this scandal, rebuild the trust of the British public, their staff and the people they aim to help, and deliver progress on these assurances, Mordaunt said.

I remain very clear: we will not work with any organisation that does not live up to the high standards on safeguarding and protection that we require.

Oxfam, which operates in some 35 countries worldwide, received $243m (176m) of funding from the UK government and other public authorities during the 2016-17 financial year, 43 percent of the charitys $564m (408.6m) total income.

The Department for International Development granted the charity $43m (31.7m) during the same period, according to Oxfam.

Vetting procedures

Thulsi Narayanasamy, a senior programmes officer for the UK-based charity War on Want, told Al Jazeera charities must revise their vetting procedures for aid workers following the Oxfam scandals.

The real problem here is that we bring people into these countries [recieving aid], often from the West, who dont have an understanding of the culture or history, and they go in and theyre in charge, Narayanasamy said on Monday.

Theyre in a position of power, where they get to dictate the terms under which change happens and [according to] what they perceive poverty eradication should look like in that particular country.

Narayanasamys comments came after Oxfam announced a number of measures intended to prevent further sexual misconduct by its staff.





Caroline Thomson, Oxfams chair of trustees, said in a statement on Sunday the charity will make safeguarding a mandatory part of the interview process for senior roles, overhaul staff training plans and establish an independent whistleblowing helpline.

We will continue to address the underlying cultural issues that allowed this behaviour to happen, Thomson said.

It is not sufficient to be appalled by the behaviour of our former staff  we must and will learn from it and use it as a spur to improvement.The US has dismissed reported discussions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Washington officials over plans to annex Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Reports that the United States discussed with Israel an annexation plan for the West Bank are false, said White House spokesman Josh Raffel, late on Monday. The United States and Israel have never discussed such a proposal.

Raffel added the focus remains squarely on US President Donald Trumps Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative.

The Israeli prime minister was quoted as telling a meeting of Likud legislators: On the subject of applying sovereignty, I can say that I have been talking to the Americans about it for some time.

Netanyahu was referring to applying Israeli law to the settlements, which are currently under the jurisdiction of Israels military.

Netanyahus office later sought to clarify what was discussed, saying in a statement the prime minister updated the Americans on the initiatives being raised in the Knesset.

On Sunday, Netanyahu blocked a bill to annex settlements that was proposed by right-wing Likud lawmakers.

The Americans expressed their unequivocal position that they are committed to advancing President Trumps peace plan, Netanyahus office said.

Palestinian reaction

Responding to Netanyahus reported comments, a senior Palestinian official said the statements confirmed Israels commitment to apartheid.

Saeb Erekat of the Palestine Liberation Organisation said on Monday any unilateral moves to annex Palestinian land would violate their right to self-determination and independence, while confirming US complicity with Israeli colonial plans.

This is a confirmation that final status issues are being unilaterally decided upon by Israel in coordination with the US administration, Erekat said in a statement.





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Israel occupied the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem in 1967. Today, between 600,000 and 750,000 Israeli settlers live in more than 200 Jewish-only settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.

The settlements are illegal under international law and violate the Fourth Geneva Convention, which states an occupying power cannot transfer its population into the territory it occupies.

Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesman for Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, said any unilateral decision to annex the settlements would only result in more tension and instability, Palestinian news agency Wafa reported.

Israeli legislation to annex the settlements would destroy every international effort that aims to salvage the peace process, Abu Rudeineh said.Ruling partys National Executive Committee to decide on future of Jacob Zuma, in meeting dubbed D-Day by media.

The highest decision-making body of South Africas ruling party, the ANC, is set to meet to decide on the fate of President Jacob Zuma on Monday.

In the meeting dubbed D-Day by local media, Zuma is expected to finally resign after weeks of pressure to do so.

On Sunday, Cyril Ramaphosa, the new leader of the African National Congress (ANC), addressed a rally in Cape Town marking Mandelas release from prison in 1990. His comments were until now, the biggest indication that Zuma was on his way out.

The National Executive Committee of the ANC will be meeting tomorrow to discuss this very matter, and because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that, Ramaphosa said.

South Africans, media held hostage by Zuma indecision

While the National Executive Committee (NEC), has the power to demand that Zuma step down, it does not wield the constitutional power to push him out of office.

Either Zuma will pay heed to their demands to step aside, or he faces a vote of no confidence in parliament  which he is likely to lose  or face impeachment.

South Africans have been holding their breath for the better part of two weeks as the spectre of Zumas looming exit cast a shadow over the nation.

Various bodies within the ANC have met on several occasions to discuss what is being called transition of power. Outside the ANC, opposition parties and civil society are baying for Zumas blood.

Last week, the Nelson Mandela Foundation released a statement calling for the immediate resignation of Zuma.

He must go because he has demonstrated that he is not fit to govern. We call on the state to hold him accountable for his actions. Some things cannot be pardoned, the foundation said in a statement

Zuma has been dogged by corruption scandals since becoming president in 2009. His relationship with an influential Indian immigrant family in particular has been under the spotlight. Zuma is accused of granting them undue access to state decision-making, including hiring and firing ministers.

In December 2017, the Constitutional Court ruled that parliament failed to uphold the constitution when it failed to hold Zuma accountable for not heeding to the Public Protectors report to pay back the money for non-security upgrades to his private residence in Nkandla.

Zuma has also survived several no-confidence votes during his rule, due to loyal voting by ANC law makers.Syria activists highlight Ghouta plight on social media

Opposition activists in Syrias eastern Ghouta are turning to social media to highlight the suffering of around 350,000 people trapped in the besieged area. Hundreds have been killed in air attacks and shelling by government forces and their allies.Tropical Storm Sanba churns towards the Philippines bringing torrential rain and the threat of landslides.

Residents in the southern Philippines are making hasty preparations ahead of an approaching tropical storm.

Sanba, known locally as Basyang, is expected to make landfall on the countrys second largest island, Mindanao, at approximately 00:00 GMT on Tuesday.

Although it is not expected to be a particularly intense storm in terms of the wind, the amount of rain is a major concern.

Some 200 to 300 millimetres of rain is expected to pour down on Mindanao, which is home to 20 million people and one that does not usually fair well from the impact of tropical storms.

Its vulnerability is partially due to the recent explosion in the population that has led to major changes to the islands environment and infrastructure.

The natural forests which coated the hillsides have been felled and rustic huts have been hastily constructed.

The lack of vegetation means that there is nothing to bind the soil to the hillside, making it prone to landslides. Meanwhile, the rustic huts provide little protection against landslides.

The vulnerability of Mindanao is also because, historically, it is rarely hit by tropical storms. The island is within six to nine degrees north of the equator, which is too close to generate the spin in the atmosphere needed to produce these cyclones.

Usually, the islands are only hit once every 12 years, but climate change has ensured that the storms have become more frequent, and each time they bring deadly consequences.

The last storm to hit Mindanao was in December 2017. Tropical Storm Tembin, known locally as Vinta, brought torrential rain which triggered landslides and flooding which killed at least 200 people.

Mindanao was also hit in 2011. The flooding and landslides from Tropical Storm Washi (Sendong) killed a staggering 1,249 people.

Neither Tembin or Washi were particularly intense storms as far as the winds were concerned. In both instances, it was the rain which triggered the disaster.

The local authorities are hoping to avoid a similar disaster from Tropical Storm Sanba.President reaffirms US stance on Jerusalem as capital of Israel, while criticising Israeli settlements.

US President Donald Trump has reiterated that the issue of Jerusalem is off the negotiating table after his decision to declare the city as the capital of Israel and move the US embassy to the holy city from Tel Aviv.

By taking Jerusalem off the table I wanted to make it clear that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and as for specific boundaries, I would support what both sides agreed to, Trump told newspaper Israel Hayom on Sunday.

Trumps comments echoed those he made during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland last month.

They never got past Jerusalem. We took it off the table. We dont have to talk about it anymore, Trump told reporters.

Breaking with years of US policy, Trump announced the move on December 6, drawing international condemnation and sparking a wave of heated protests around the world.

{articleGUID}

A resounding majority of United Nations member states declared Trumps move as null and void in a non-binding resolution.

The status of Jerusalem, which is home to holy religious sites and has particular significance for Muslims, Christians and Jews, has long remained a sensitive topic and one of the core issues in the Israeli-Palestine conflict.

In the exclusive interview with Israel Hayom, Trump also urged both Israel and Palestine to make hard compromises to reach a peace agreement, as he warned against Israeli settlements.

In a rare criticism of the Israeli leadership, the US president questioned Israels commitment to making peace with the Palestinians.

Right now, I would say the Palestinians are not looking to make peace, they are not looking to make peace, he told the Hayom, which is owned by American billionaire and Trump backer Sheldon Adelson.

And I am not necessarily sure that Israel is looking to make peace, the Republican president added.

Careful with settlements

Israel occupied East Jerusalem in 1967 and proceeded to effectively annex it, in breach of international law.

The Palestinian leadership in the occupied West Bank, however, see East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state.

Today, 86 percent of East Jerusalem is under the direct control of the Israeli authorities and Jewish settlers.

Trump warned Netanyahus government against Israeli settlements getting in the way of negotiations.

The settlements are something that very much complicates and always have complicated making peace, so I think Israel has to be very careful with the settlements, he said.

Between 600,000 and 750,000 Israelis live in sizeable settlements, beyond the internationally recognised borders of their state.

Phyllis Bennis, author of Understanding the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict, doubts Trumps comments represent a policy shift by the US.

I think what we are seeing here is not the end of the US role as an honest broker because it never was an honest broker, she told Al Jazeera. This [his comments] is simply a clearer acknowledgment of that reality.

President Trump has made it clear that he is more officially and formally pro-Israel than another recent president, added Bennis, who is also a fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies.Probe launched into conduct of leader of main pro-Kurdish party over criticism of Turkeys military offensive in Syria.

Turkish authorities have arrested at least 666 people since the beginning of a major military operation in northern Syria.

The detained are accused of spreading terror propaganda.

The Turkish prosecutor has also launched a probe into the conduct of the leader of the main pro-Kurdish party over criticism of the countrys offensive in Syria.

Pervin Buldan, Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) leader, and her fellow legislator Sirri Surreya Onder are also under suspicion of the same, according to Turkish authorities.

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HDP is the only political party in Turkey that opposes Operation Olive Branch, the military action in northern Syria against Kurdish fighters known as the YPG.

An investigation has been launched into lawmakers Pervin Buldan and Sirri Sureyya Onder by the chief prosecutor for the crimes of carrying out terror propaganda, inciting grudges and enmity in the public, Reuters news agency reported, citing a document from the prosecutors office.

Buldan, who is also a deputy speaker of the parliament, had been chosen by party delegates to be co-leader of the HDP on Sunday during its congress in Ankara.

The two MPs were being investigated after images of the jailed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) leader Abdullah Ocalan were shown during the congress, according to the prosecutors office.

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The PKK, designated a terrorist group by Turkey, the EU and the US, has fought a bloody, decades-long uprising in the country.

The two parliamentarians are also being probed over allegedly making statements against the Afrin operation during the event.

However, the prosecutors office did not give specific details about the alleged statements.

The crackdown comes after Turkey opened a new front in the multi-sided Syrian civil war, when it launched an air and ground offensive against YPG fighters on its southern border with Syria last month.

Turkey says the presence of the Syrian Kurdish YPG in the area is a security threat to the country.

Turkey sees the YPG  trained, armed and supported by the US to fight against ISIL  as an extension of the outlawed PKK.Recruitment of child soldiers still rising in South Sudan

No end to forced mobilisation as civil war enters fifth year, having killed thousands and displaced millions in African country.Sale of Weinstein Company stalled as New Yorks attorney general alleges co-founders of breaking laws amid sex scandal.

New Yorks attorney general has filed a lawsuit against scandal-hit Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, his brother and his former company, alleging that their film studio failed to protect its employees against its cofounder.

Weinstein, 65, was fired from The Weinstein Company last October, after more than 70 women accused him of sexual misconduct, including rape. He has denied all allegations of non-consensual sex.

The case was brought forward by Eric Schneiderman on Sunday, following an investigation into accusations against the prominent film producer of sexual harassment by dozens of women in the film industry.

The New York Times and The New Yorker first published damning exposes about the alleged sexual misconduct in October 2017.

Scores of other prominent actors  including Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, and Mira Sorvino  subsequently came forward and accused Weinstein of abusive behaviours.

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To work for Harvey Weinstein was to work under a persistent barrage of gender-based obscenities, vulgar name-calling, sexualised interactions, threats of violence, and a workplace general hostile to women, the lawsuit, submitted in the State Supreme Court in Manhattan, read.

The attorney general also found that senior members of the board, including Weinsteins younger brother, Robert, were well aware of the producers activities and failed to take any action.

The company and co-owner Robert are liable because they were aware of and acquiesced in repeated and persistent unlawful conduct, by failing to investigate or stop it, the lawsuit said.

The civil rights probe revealed that the human resource department received numerous complaints over the past four or five years.

Al Jazeeras Mike Hanna, reporting from Washington, DC, said the lawsuit makes very clear that there were layers within The Weinstein Company that were well aware of the activities of the principal shareholder and, in fact, empowered him in his activities.

In response, the companys board of directors expressed its disappointment at the lawsuit and dismissed the claims.

Many of the allegations relating to the board are inaccurate, and the board looks forward to bringing the facts to light as part of its ongoing commitment to resolve this difficult situation in the most appropriate way, it said in a statement to Deadspin.

Sale stalled

The lawsuit has stalled the planned sale of the company for $500m.

In the wake of the case, the investment group Maria Contreras-Sweet, which was expected to sign a deal with the troubled company, has withdrawn its offer to buy it immediately.





Any sale of the Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched, Schneiderman said in a news release.

Under the deal, Maria Contreras-Sweet has publicly said it would compensate the victims of alleged abuse by Weinstein.

The sale was set to take place on Sunday.

It is the attorney generals apparent wish that the sale of this company will not go ahead until all those within it are held accountable and responsible, for their role in facilitating the activities of Harvey Weinstein himself, Al Jazeeras Hanna said.About the show

A weekly programme that examines and dissects the worlds media, how they operate and the stories they cover. Watch The Listening Post every Saturday at 0830GMTHurricane Irma left Joshua Layton homeless for a month after a tree fell through the roof of his house.

This was one of the worst things I had to deal with, he said.

So situations like Laytons dont happen again, the Florida Division of Emergency Management granted Alachua County a $194,000 grant Feb. 1, said Susan Meadows, a Hurricane Loss Mitigation Program coordinator for Alachua County. The county can use the funds to reinforce housing structures so theyll survive storms like Irma.

The Hurricane Loss Mitigation Program is expected to help more than 35 homes, Meadows said. The deadline to apply on the Alachua County website is March 9.

Were trying to get applications for those in need, Meadows said. We want to help as many as we can.

The program will assist with housing needs such as roof coverage, installation of hurricane straps and hurricane resistant windows, Meadows said.

Distribution of the grant is determined by the applicants annual household income and the amount of residents in the house, Meadows said.

Layton, a 23-year-old UF sociology senior, said the tree that fell on his house caused multiple holes, landed on the houses power line and broke the main gas line.

I dont believe a county grant would have made a difference since the majority of the damage was caused by this huge tree, he said. However, there are many others that could benefit.

Pictured above is part of a tree that broke the main gas line in Joshua Layton's home during Hurricane Irma. The 23-year-old UF sociology senior had to live with a friend for a month after the storm.

Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox Subscribe NowWashington Mishears the Lullaby of Moscow

The Russians are coming, the Russians are coming. Every night, you'll hear a Russian lullaby. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif), the ranking member of the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, has been engaged for over a year in an unrelenting, dogged, unholy quest to discover evidence of collusion between unnamed Russians and named members and associates of the Trump administration. He is correct that there is a Russian conspiracy that affects governmental behavior, but sadly, he, and like-minded investigators, are singing the wrong melody and pointing at the wrong target. Their attention should be switched from Washington, D.C. to Eastern Europe, where the Russians are increasingly active. In his famous speech on September 19, 1946 in Zurich, Winston Churchill spoke of the need to "build a kind of United States of Europe." Though Churchill may not have regarded it as his prototype, the European Union came into existence as a result of political and organizational additions to the 1957 Treaty of Rome. Now an organization of 28 states, including Britain, containing 510 million people , the E.U.'s main achievements have been an internal single market through a standardized system of laws; free movement of people, goods, services, and capital; and common policies on certain issues such as trade, agriculture, and fisheries.

From its origins, the European community consisted essentially of Western European countries. For many years, the E.U. has taken little interest in Eastern Europe. Recently, however, the E.U. leadership has spoken of the Eastern area of Europe as having the same history, the same geography, the same cultural heritage as the rest of Europe. On February 6, 2018, the E.U. announced that it is exploring the possibility of admitting six Balkan nations, which it usually refers to as Western Balkans, into membership of the E.U. The countries  Serbia (7 mil), Kosovo (3.8 mil), Bosnia (3.5 mil), Albania (2.9 mil), Macedonia (2.1 mil), and Montenegro (0.4 mil)  many of which emerged from the end of Yugoslavia, have a combined population of 18 million. They are poor countries, and none has a fully functioning market economy. The countries may be admitted into the E.U. if they make reforms: free press, fundamental rights, independent courts, ending corruption, breaking up crime rings, public administration reform, solving border disputes, and definitive peaceful relations with neighbors. The E.U. has declared a Western Balkans strategy to enlarge its membership, which is part of its larger objective to strengthen its own union. It will deal with the various countries at different speeds and on their own merits, depending on when they meet the stated criteria. The E.U. has not forgotten that in 2007, it rushed membership of Romania and Bulgaria, as well as poorly mismanaging migration from East Europe to the West. This is an ambitious undertaking. Since the E.U. was formed, the Balkans have been the scene of a series of wars and war crimes. It is a region where 140,000 died in the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s. The area of Kosovo is still the subject of dispute between the Republic of Kosovo, which declared its independence from Serbia in February 2008, and the Republic of Serbia. Incidentally, Spain has not recognized Kosovo for fear that the country would be a role model for Catalan separatists. Bosnia is divided between rival governments, one in the mainly Muslim area where Saudi Arabia is building both mosques and luxury resorts and another in the northeast under Orthodox Christian Serbs. Macedonia is eager to join the E.U. but is likely to be blocked by Greece, which opposes the name the country took when it declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, even if Macedonia did build a fence to block migrants. The question is why the E.U. is interested in the Western Balkans. Economically, the E.U. is the most important trading partner of the W.B., but this is only about 1.3% of total E.U. trade. Politically, the E.U. is confronting the difficult problem of Brexit and is troubled that two members, Hungary and Poland, now have illiberal governments. The answer, one in which the Trump administration and perhaps Rep. Schiff should be interested, is E.U. concern about two increasing factors: Russian assertiveness and growing influence and increasing Chinese involvement and investment in the area. Russian President Vladimir Putin has many motives for acting in Eastern Europe. Among them is the Russian need to bypass Ukraine as the pipeline of natural gas to Europe, as it tried to do, 2012-2014, with the ill fated and abandoned South Stream project, to transport natural gas from Russia through the Black Sea and the Balkans to Western Europe. Another is the memory of Russia being humilated by not being consulted over NATO bombing in 1999 of Serbia, which it regarded as being part of Moscow's sphere of influence. Russia in the past and recently has long been interested in Belgrade. On a personal level, Serbian politician President Tomaslav Nikolic is said to have a close relationship with Putin. Nikolic asserts that Serbia wants to become a member of the E.U., to which it applied 17 years ago, but also that it has a close relationship, historical, religious, and linguistic, with the Russians. In 2013, the two sides signed a strategic partnership and a military cooperation agreement. A year later, Putin was given Serbia's highest award. Russia has been involved in both military and economic issues. It has provided Serbia with Mig-29 fighter jets, T-72 tanks, and other hardware and is discussing sending S-300 s urface-to-air missiles. This is puzzling, since not only does Serbia have a relationship with the U.S. and NATO, but its armed forces have conducted joint activities with NATO. The state-run Russian Railways is working on a 220-mile stretch of track in Serbia. Its state-owned energy company, Gazprom, has a majority share in Serbia's natural gas-supplier. Not surprisingly, Serbia refused to join in the Western sanctions imposed in 2014 over the Russian annexation of Crimea. A controversial group is the Russian-Serbian Humanitarian Center, started in 2012, which some, such as Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), regard as a Russian intelligence outpost. Russia is also active in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country of clashes among ethnic Serbs (Orthodox), ethnic Croats (Catholic), and Bosnian Muslims (46% of the population). Memories are still vivid of the massacre in Srebrenica in July 1995, when 8,000 Muslim Bosnians were murdered by the army of Srpska. Russia is supporting the Republic of Srpska, one of Bosnia's two legal entities, each with its own government, and its president, Milorad Dodik, the hard-line nationalist Serb politician, who is regarded as Putin's man in the area. One sign of the collaboration is that Russian-trained mercenaries are helping establish a paramilitary unit for Dodik. To strengthen its position, Russia is also linked to the head of the Croat party. Noticeably, Russia in November 2014 abstained on the U.N. Security Council Resolution to authorize a E.U.-led multinational stabilization force in Bosnia. In Montenegro, the Russian security services have been accused, together with Serbians, of being involved in and even in planning the failed coup, in October 2016, to kill the then-prime minister and overthrow the government. The Russian objective was to prevent Montenegro from becoming a member of NATO. China has been increasing relations in the Western Balkans, especially with its BRI ($1-trillion belt and road initiative) infrastructure drive, first proposed by Chinese president Xi Jinping in 2013. China is investing in Serbia, as an opportunity to export to the European market as a whole. It is therefore investing in Serbia's railroad and highway systems, bridges, and roads, and in a long high-speed rail link between Budapest and Belgrade, for which China is providing about 85% of the total cost of 2.4 billion euros. The Chinese Export-Import Bank is also funding $1 billion for a highway in Montenegro. Politically and contrary to U.S. policy, China sides with Serbia in not recognizing the legitimacy of Kosovo. China started the 16+1 framework, consisting of China and 11 E.U. countries and 5 Balkans to intensify and expand cooperation between them in issues of investment, transport, finance, science, education, and culture. Meetings have been talking place at regular intervals. The Russian lullaby, and its Chinese counterpoint, are not ended. Washington politicians should be aware of the political dissonance of those sounds in the Western Balkans.For instance, there is the claim that Australia's Great Barrier Reef is dying because of global warming. Maintaining the scare requires academic solidarity, meaning no challenges to the orthodoxy. Unfortunately for his career prospects, Professor Peter Ridd of James Cook University in Cairns, Queensland didn't get or didn't heed the message. Professor Ridd teaches physics at JCU and is attached to its Center for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research. As real scientists do, he advances knowledge by challenging the results reported by others.

As the global warming fraud fails to deliver on the promises of "no more snow" and other apocalypses, the dogma requires catastrophes that sound bad but are remote enough to defy individual self-verification. If citizens are to be bullied into accepting carbon taxes and regulations constraining their energy use while their betters fly around on private jets to more global warming conferences, they have to be scared about things they can't see the same way they can see record snowfalls years after the deadline for "no more snow" has passed.

Don't expect the mainstream media in this country to express any interest in this case. But if the science is so solid, why not take on critics directly? The approach of silencing dissent tells you all you need to know about their real confidence in their scare-mongering.

But this case is not only about free speech. It is also about whether scientific debates are settled by censorship or by debate.

This has so far cost him $95,000 in legal fees, but thank heavens many Australians still think free speech is worth defending.

Some of those alleged breaches were nothing more than Ridd telling his own wife that the university was punishing him. He is now fighting in the Federal Court to defend his academic freedom.

It has further accused him of denigrating the university and a colleague, and of breaching confidentiality.

It pounced after Ridd last year went on Sky News to outline his arguments, adding: "We can no longer trust the scientific organisations like the Australian Institute of Marine Science, even things like the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies."

Ridd may be right or wrong. Either way, this is a critical debate, yet JCU is trying to shut it down.

"Some parts of the southern reef, for example, have seen a tripling of coral in six years after they were devastated by a particularly severe cyclone."

He says the reef is actually "in excellent condition", and largely regrows after bleaching or cyclones.

"As just one example, coral growth rates that have supposedly collapsed along the reef have, if anything, increased slightly ... and mass bleaching events along the reef that supposedly serve as evidence of permanent human-caused devastation are almost certainly completely natural."

"I have published numerous scientific papers showing that much of the 'science' claiming damage to the (Great Barrier Reef) is either plain wrong or greatly exaggerated," he said last week.

Andrew Bolt of the Herald-Sun covers what has befallen Ridd for his heterodoxy, from behind a pay wall :

As the global warming fraud fails to deliver on the promises of "no more snow" and other apocalypses, the dogma requires catastrophes that sound bad but are remote enough to defy individual self-verification. If citizens are to be bullied into accepting carbon taxes and regulations constraining their energy use while their betters fly around on private jets to more global warming conferences, they have to be scared about things they can't see the same way they can see record snowfalls years after the deadline for "no more snow" has passed.

For instance, there is the claim that Australia's Great Barrier Reef is dying because of global warming. Maintaining the scare requires academic solidarity, meaning no challenges to the orthodoxy. Unfortunately for his career prospects, Professor Peter Ridd of James Cook University in Cairns, Queensland didn't get or didn't heed the message. Professor Ridd teaches physics at JCU and is attached to its Center for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research. As real scientists do, he advances knowledge by challenging the results reported by others.

Andrew Bolt of the Herald-Sun covers what has befallen Ridd for his heterodoxy, from behind a pay wall:

"I have published numerous scientific papers showing that much of the 'science' claiming damage to the (Great Barrier Reef) is either plain wrong or greatly exaggerated," he said last week. "As just one example, coral growth rates that have supposedly collapsed along the reef have, if anything, increased slightly ... and mass bleaching events along the reef that supposedly serve as evidence of permanent human-caused devastation are almost certainly completely natural." He says the reef is actually "in excellent condition", and largely regrows after bleaching or cyclones. "Some parts of the southern reef, for example, have seen a tripling of coral in six years after they were devastated by a particularly severe cyclone."



Professor Peter Ridd (picture: Cameron Laird).

Ridd may be right or wrong. Either way, this is a critical debate, yet JCU is trying to shut it down. It pounced after Ridd last year went on Sky News to outline his arguments, adding: "We can no longer trust the scientific organisations like the Australian Institute of Marine Science, even things like the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies." JCU found him guilty of "serious misconduct" and of lacking "collegiality"  meaning "groupthink". It has further accused him of denigrating the university and a colleague, and of breaching confidentiality. Some of those alleged breaches were nothing more than Ridd telling his own wife that the university was punishing him. He is now fighting in the Federal Court to defend his academic freedom. This has so far cost him $95,000 in legal fees, but thank heavens many Australians still think free speech is worth defending. Ridd's go-fund-me appeal raised the money in just two days. But this case is not only about free speech. It is also about whether scientific debates are settled by censorship or by debate.

Don't expect the mainstream media in this country to express any interest in this case. But if the science is so solid, why not take on critics directly? The approach of silencing dissent tells you all you need to know about their real confidence in their scare-mongering.

Hat tip: John McMahonThat's not my word; it's the word from the far left itself, as seen in this post from Josh Marshall's left-wing Talking Points Memo (TPM), from writer Alice Ollstein:

With less than a month to go on making the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals executive order, dating from President Obama's pen, permanent, Democrats are in a panic about their prospects for making DACA law.

TPM explains that Democrats have no more political cards to play after all the multiple government shutdown dramas they created over DACA recipients, including Nancy Pelosi's eight-hour floor speech, conducted in four-inch heels, something that, Salena Zito credibly argues, reduced Democrats' leverage even further, and certainly won't help their prospects for a wave election at the end of 2018.

Get your schadenfreude on with this from TPM:

"All leverage is gone," a grim-faced Rep. Luis Gutierrez (D-IL) told reporters before the vote. "Back in September, we said we would have leverage on the budget and on the debt ceiling. Now, we're giving it all up. Once you've lifted the caps, do you really believe anybody is going to take us seriously?" "It's folly," he continued bitterly. "You guys are going to laugh, as well you should."

We certainly are, Luis. Now quit being left-wing.

Here's the problem with the whole mess for the Democrats.

Democrats staked their entire party's fortunes on the prospect of 700,000 or, given chain migration, millions of newly minted Democratic voters from the DACA deal. They know full well that most DACA recipients aren't the overachieving, I've-got-a-new-life-at-last entrepreneurial immigrants of the legal variety; they are largely underachievers who have managed to assimilate only into the underclass and are used to having everything handed to them, including citizenship, for free. Many do not speak English, and a few valedictorians aside, they can have as many as two misdemeanors, sometimes three, for wife-beating, graffiti-spraying, drunk driving, and the like. Obviously, most of these people are high consumers of social services of all kinds, from food stamps to medical services to education to justice system "interaction." As a result, they become Democratic voters, at times through the muscle of Democratic political machines, if not for the freebies themselves.

Democrats ignored everyone else and their concerns about illegals driving down wages, the moral hazard of additional just-wait-for-the-next-subway amnesties to fuel more illegal immigration, and the high costs of added social services while getting little of value in return.

They pretty much have no other program than that.

They also treated DACA as a racism issue, rather than a rule of law issue, which angers voters as well. Anyone opposing DACA was nothing but a racist, according to the Democrat line, so give the DACA recipients everything they want  to avoid the dreaded racist label. Didn't work for them. Yet the only other thing that defines Democrats is identity politics, so of course they had to make DACA about racism. That well can yield only so many times.

Besides this, they made DACA a confrontational social justice matter. Voters "owed" DACA recipients citizenship; it wasn't a favor. This explains the DACA protests as a Democrat strategy  the sit-ins, the blockages at congressional offices and at Disneyland, loud speeches and editorials, and university coddling. America, once again, had done something bad by not giving DACA recipients instant citizenship. Well, most Americans are tired of being the bad guy for the crime of having immigration laws, same as every other country on Earth, including those countries DACA recipients hail from.

As a corollary to that, the Democrats browbeat Americans as "anti-immigrant," particularly in the biased media. The U.S. admits one to three million legal immigrants each year, so there is no argument about its welcome to immigrants. The DACA issue is about whether every immigrant should have to obey U.S. laws. Arguing that some don't requires much more than sob stories, given what's known about them. Democrats offered nothing but shrill semantic shifts, conflating immigrants with illegal aliens. That didn't work, either.

Their entire approach to the matter was wrong. They should have taken half a loaf in favor of the DACA recipients in the form of allowing a border wall, ending chain migration, installing E-Verify, and dropping the visa diversity lottery if they really wanted DACA that bad. They didn't.

Aside from that, they should have reconsidered their whole strategy of making American citizens the bad guy, and instead asked for a DACA amnesty  not as an entitlement, but as a favor.

With the party built on entitlements, identity, and political correctness, that was obviously a bridge too far.

So now it's time to laugh at these guys, schadenfreude-style, just as Gutierrez said.And as more and more facts come out debunking its claims altogether, exposing the green emperor's new clothes, the lefties who perpetrated the baloney are starting to feel the pinch  and brawl with each other.

That's the take from Mike Allen's Axios, which reports that the greenies are separating into two camps, at war with each other. Axios's Amy Harder reports:

America's Democratic Party, environmental groups[,] and clean-energy leaders pushing action on climate change are at odds over how best to address it. Why it matters: Conflict is erupting over the best technologies and messaging, and experts worry the fighting could stifle progress toward the big thing they agree on: the need to address climate change. The divisions, brewing for years, are escalating in the face of a Republican-run government that doesn't recognize the issue at all.

The two factions identified by Axios can be summed up as, on the one side, Bernie Sanders; the Sierra Club; the Hollywood green left, including Leo DiCaprio; some group called 350.org; a guy named Jeff Merkley; and Stanford professor Mark Jacobson. Those are the nutbags, in Axios's indirect estimation.

The smarter ones in Axios's estimation are the Obamatons, of course: former Obama energy secretary Ernest Moniz; Terry McAuliffe, who was governor of Virginia; a couple of senators from Hawaii and Rhode Island; Big Labor; and some obscure think-thanks you can see if you really want the bullet points of the Axios story.

The nutbags want a society run on California governor Jerry Brown's original dream: a society run on all alternative energy.

The Obamaton group wants a society with some room for natural gas and nuclear energy, due to their low emissions, apparently a very politically incorrect idea on the fire-breathing left.

Axios declares now civil war and points out that it could endanger the green agenda altogether.

Oh, scare, scare.

Here's what I think is happening: the global warmers are increasingly being discredited regarding their ridiculous claims of global warming as a science, and the public is on to it. That's why the public elected Donald Trump president. With the "settled science" crumbling under its own absence of facts, as well as the emergence of counter-facts, a vast political empire out there, built on green, is desperately in need of defense, as a leftist bastion. Because global warming, above all, is all about controlling the lives of citizens, not reality. That's why the Obamaton side of this green civil war is looking to allow room for natural gas and nuclear energy, something its members have never been too friendly with in the past (although, to be fair, former Obama energy secretary Steven Chu, who is the nicest guy you will ever meet, lefty or not, did tell me he encountered no problems in the Obama administration promoting nuclear energy, so perhaps it's not a strong change). It's kind of an appeasement to reality, without throwing the whole thing out.

The nutbag side of the equation sticks to its fixed ideas about global warming and the idea to convert to green energy alone, facts or not.

What we are seeing here is a battle between the absolutists who want us living in mud huts with no electricity, smugly virtue-signaling our green correctness, and the already built green empire of political has-beens desperate to preserve their legacy as well as giant corporations who've invested millions in going green, state legislatures and governors that have forced the public to pay for plastic bags at the grocery and suffer through other controls, and all the contractors who signal their virtue by showing how green they are. All of those groups need natural gas and nuclear energy, given that they operate in the real world and have an empire to defend.

That a fight is breaking out between these two groups is a good sign, a sign that the jig is up, given that the truth of this junk science is finally getting out. It would be nice to put them all in a gladiator pit and watch them duke it out. Since that won't happen, let's hail that the truth is getting out about the global warming scam, and the fight breaking out is the result of a tottering empire.Chairman Devin Nunes is turning his attention to the role the CIA played in promoting the Steele dossier. The FBI and Justice Department relied heavily on the unverified dossier in their applications for a FISA warrant to spy on the Trump campaign.

Obama appointee and former CIA director John Brennan is the target of a perjury investigation by the House Intelligence Committee, according to an exclusive Real Clear Investigations report .

Brennan said under oath that he didn't know who commissioned the document and that the dossier was not used to come to the conclusion that Russia had meddled in the 2016 presidential campaign.

Brennan also swore that he did not know who commissioned the anti-Trump research document (excerpt here), even though senior national security and counterintelligence officials at the Justice Department and FBI knew the previous year that the dossier was funded by the Hillary Clinton campaign. Last week, Nunes (R-Calif.) released a declassified memo exposing surveillance "abuses" by the Obama DOJ and FBI in their investigation of Trump's ties to Russia. It said the agencies relied heavily on the uncorroborated dossier to take out a warrant to secretly surveil a Trump adviser in the heat of the 2016 presidential election, even though they were aware the underlying "intelligence" supporting the wiretap order was political opposition research funded by Clinton allies  a material fact they concealed from FISA court judges in four separate applications. Nunes plans to soon release a separate report detailing the Obama State Department's role in creating and disseminating the dossier  which has emerged as the foundation of the Obama administration's Russia "collusion" investigation. Among other things, the report will identify Obama-appointed diplomats who worked with partisan operatives close to Hillary Clinton to help ex-British spy Christopher Steele compile the dossier, sources say. "Those are the first two phases" of Nunes'[s] multipart inquiry, a senior investigator said. "In phase three, the involvement of the intelligence community will come into sharper focus."



The aide, who spoke only on condition of anonymity, said Nunes will focus on Brennan as well as President Obama's first CIA director, Leon Panetta, along with the former president's intelligence czar, James Clapper, and national security adviser, Susan Rice, and security adviser-turned U.N. ambassador Samantha Power, among other intelligence officials.



"John Brennan did more than anyone to promulgate the dirty dossier," the investigator said. "He politicized and effectively weaponized what was false intelligence against Trump." Attempts to reach Brennan for comment were unsuccessful.

Expect a lot of "I don't knows" and "I can't recalls" from Brennan during questioning. It will be very hard to prove he lied when he said he didn't know the provenance of the dossier, nor was he aware of the importance attached to the document in the CIA's analysis of Russian meddling.

But you can bet he is going to be squirming. The whole crew  Brennan, Panetta, Power, Rice, and Clapper  may all plead the Fifth Amendment to avoid testifying. That will only make them look guiltier. But it will serve the purpose of stymieing the investigation. The strategy will be to hope the Democrats take over the House in November, thus making all these investigations into anyone but Trump campaign officials disappear.

Is it likely Brennan was unaware of where the dossier came from? No. Is it possible? Yes. On that, the former CIA director will hang his hat.Investigators believe Deluna got into a fight with a man in the parking lot and retrieved a gun from his vehicle. He then returned to shoot him. Rupani, whose father owns the store, was inside. He came to the shooting victim's aid and was shot, too. Rupani had two young children and a wife.

Deluna has been at large for three weeks, obviously presenting a danger of further violence against citizens, legal visitors, and even other illegals, DACA beneficiaries or not.

I don't suppose that this criminality has diminished Nancy Pelosi's gratitude for the DACA recipients who have deigned to enrich us all with their presence, and to the parents who brought them here in violation of our laws. Her stunt faux filibuster in stiletto heels last week wasn't deep sized out of concern for lawlessness. Here she is last month slobbering all over people like Deluna:

According to ABC, Deluna's family are also enriching our lives with their crimes:

Nearing deportation, again, is where Deluna's father, Manuel Deluna, is. He is on "hold' status with Immigration and Customs Enforcement since his release from prison last October. According to Robert Hurst with Texas Department of Criminal Justice, he served four months of a two-year sentence stemming from a SWAT standoff in November 2016. He barricaded himself after assaulting his wife and daughter. Five years earlier, Manuel Deluna's other son, Eric Deluna, planned an ambush on an 18-wheeler full of drugs. It was part of a notorious federal sting that went bad aimed at the Los Zetas cartel. A federal informant died in a shootout that also left a Harris county sheriff's deputy wounded. Eric Deluna is serving a 30-year sentence.

Of course, not all DACA beneficiaries are as ungrateful and violent as Deluna and the parents who bestowed him upon us, to Pelosi's gratitude. But having any such people among us does violence not just to the rule of law, but to ourselves. Pelosi owes an apology to Deluna's victim.Make no mistake: the left fears Trump's successes and the rising approval he and congressional Republicans are enjoying. Sabotage is the aim.

The media hysteria over now departed White House aide Rob Porter is nothing but a political smokescreen. There are two covert goals. One is to divert attention from the ongoing revelations of Obama administration abuse and corruption, including the surveillance of the Trump campaign. The other is to force out General John Kelly, who has become a vital force in the Trump White House, and thereby reverse the success he has had in bringing order and accomplishment to the rookie politician Trump's administration.

There is proof of this. Only six years ago, when left-wing Democrat Senator Sherrod Brown was accused of spousal abuse and the matter was raised by a Republican running against him, there was no media or feminist hysteria. In fact, one spousal abuse activist accused the accuser. Joel B. Pollak writes at Breitbart:

Rita Smith, executive director of the Denver-based National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, declined at the time to criticize Brown. Instead, she defended Brown's voting record on women's issues. And she told an interviewer that Mandel's attack on Brown was "'actually abusive,' because he is putting Brown's family, including his former wife, in a negative spotlight, 'and that is abusive of women.'" That is how many Democrats really feel about politicians who abuse women. As long as they have a "D" after their names, and vote for abortion, they are almost incapable of abuse.

Another Dem also gets a pass, where Porter and those who dare to presume his innocence do not:

U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-DE), "admitted to hitting his ex-wife hard enough to give her a black eye," the Washington Free Beacon notes. And yet no Democrats have called on Carper to resign.

The point here isn't that spousal abuse is OK; it isn't. It is a serious crime and can be prosecuted. After the presumption of innocence yields to a verdict in a court of law, it can be punished, and further political consequences, including firing and expulsion, can unfold.

Meanwhile, the media hysteria over President Trump granting the presumption of innocence to his aide will continue, not because of any Democrat aversion to spousal abuse, but for raw and smelly political ends.

Update: John Hinderaker goes a little farther back in time in exposing the hypocrisy of the Dems' crocodile tears and witch-hunting fervor:Apparently intoxicated by the adulation coming her way of late, as progressives desperately want her not to retire, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg skates close to political advocacy, which should be taboo for a Supreme Court justice. Last night, she offered a new excuse for Hillary Clinton's failure to win what most journalists and politicians believed was a slam-dunk presidential race.

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said she thought it was difficult for Hillary Clinton to "get by the macho atmosphere" dominating the 2016 presidential election.

This represents an escalation from her earlier charges that "sexism" played a major role in the election, as she did last September:

CNN's Poppy Harlow asked Ginsburg at an event at Columbia University Sunday to clarify her comments last year that sexism was a "major factor" in the election. "I think it was difficult for Hillary Clinton to get by the macho atmosphere prevailing during that campaign, and she was criticized in a way I think no men would have been criticized," Ginsburg said.

Here is Justice Ginsburg last September, blaming sexism alone for Hillary's loss:

"Sexism" implies that the voting public is at fault, and perhaps that a female candidacy is hopeless. When she blames a "macho atmosphere," the focus becomes the behavior of the manly Donald Trump. She seems to think both sexism and a macho atmosphere were at work:

"I think anyone who watched that campaign unfold would answer the same way I did, yes that sexism played a prominent part," she continued. Harlow then asked the justice if the U.S. wasn't ready for a female president. "I think we were and will be the next time," Ginsburg said.

Justice Ginsburg seems unaware that she has contradicted herself here. If the country was ready for a female president in 2016, why did a vague "macho atmosphere" matter? What specific characteristics of that "macho atmosphere" hindered Hillary? Was it the fact that she was criticized by the man running against her? We were assured at the time that her opponent, Donald Trump, was quite unacceptable in his behavior, and that it would lead to his defeat.

Here is a video of the entire hour-and-a-half presentation:

Justice Ginsburg already has been forced to apologize for her comments during the campaign:

In July, Ginsburg said that she despaired for the country if Trump were elected, and she described him as egotistical, inconsistent and a "faker." She faulted Trump for saying "whatever comes into his head at the moment," but then acknowledged that she too had spoken without thinking about the consequences. Many legal commentators said it was unprecedented for a justice of the high court to speak out against a political candidate during an election year. Responding to harsh criticism from Trump and many others, Ginsburg issued an extraordinary apology, saying she regretted her "ill-advised" comments. "Judges should avoid commenting on a candidate for public office. In the future I will be more circumspect," she said in a statement issued by the court.

I think it is fair to say that Trump Derangement Syndrome has reached the highest court in the land. That is dangerous, and a reason why Justice Ginsburg should retire and preserve what remains of her dignity as a disinterested jurist.The two-state solution: Beware, America

Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Pope Francis in Rome this past week. The topic of the meeting wasn't the persecution of Christians in the Middle East, nor Erdogan's human rights abuses in Turkey. It was Erdogan's and the Vatican's shared objection to the United State moving its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. It is hard to see how Pope Francis and Erdogan have any standing in the matter. Israel is a sovereign nation; it gets to choose its capital like every other country. And what foreign entity gets to say where the U.S. embassy should be? This is especially aggravating given the fact that having the American embassy in Jerusalem is U.S. law according to the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995.

Why is the embassy not already in Jerusalem in line with a 20-year-old law? It's because the law states that the embassy move can be put off for six months at a time as long as the president "determines and reports to Congress in advance that such suspension is necessary to protect the national security of the United States." This loophole allowed Presidents Clinton, Bush, and Obama to circumvent the move for twenty years, even though both presidents Bush and Clinton campaigned for it. Donald Trump, on the other hand, made relocating our embassy to Israel's capital a campaign issue, and he's acting on it. It is hard to imagine how moving the American embassy could be a genuine threat to U.S. national security. The inaction was another shameful bow to Arab anti-Jewish sentiments and a slight to Israel's sovereignty. After the meeting between the pope and Erdogan, the Vatican put out a press release reiterating its longstanding position that Jerusalem's status should remain contingent on a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Ah, the long sought after but elusive two-state solution. Although a two-state solution is a favorite of many "leading lights of the world" like Pope Francis, it is a delusion. To learn the details on the non-feasibility of an independent Palestinian state, see The Two-State Delusion (2015) by Padraig O'Malley. For our purposes here, it suffices to say that any two-state solution cobbled together would require massive amounts of money and a long list of guarantees just to get it off the ground. Once formed, the probability of the State of Palestine being self-sufficient and economically viable is next to zero. It would instead have to rely on continuous and massive wealth transfers from the rest of the world for years to come. This brings us to the good news that fell out from President Trump's embassy decision. It comes from none other than Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestine National Authority. While in his tirade condemning the embassy move, Abbas, with eyes aflame, said the U.S. is too "dishonest" to be a mediator in the peace process. Thank you, President Abbas, for this unintended blessing. In the broadest sense, a mediator is one who intervenes between two parties for the purpose of leading them into an agreement. Think of marriage counselors. But the problem here is that if the U.S. is a mediator between the Palestinians and Israelis, it would inevitably be dragged into the so-called peace process as a third party  i.e., like a shadow participant. America would then likely be looked on by all the parties  and the world  to provide an inordinate share of the money and guarantees to make the solution work. It would be as if a marriage counselor took on the responsibilities of maintaining the family car and yard work for the wife and to do the cooking and house-cleaning for the husband just to keep the troubled couple out of divorce court. The role of mediator is a no-win situation for America. It would involve us in entanglements and costs we don't need. Creating and maintaining a Palestinian state would be the mother of all nation-building projects. With this in mind, President Trump should keep a prudent distance from the peace process and not let the allure of a possible Nobel Peace Prize blind him to the realities on the ground as it has to others before him. The president has bigger fish to fry, like terrorism, China, trade, Russia, and our domestic economy, rather than getting bogged down in a matter that is for Israel and the Palestinians to resolve.The company has been especially worried about its ads showing up in videos that sexualize and exploit children.

Unilever, one of the largest consumer products companies in the world, is threatening to pull its advertisements from Facebook, Google, and YouTube unless they get rid of platforms that promote "extremism," "hate speech," and "fake news."

Gizmodo:

"Unilever will not invest in platforms or environments that do not protect our children or which create division in society, and promote anger or hate," Weed is expected to say, according to a copy of his speech that was released to news outlets like The Guardian and Wall Street Journal. Whether the company actually does pull any ads remains to be seen, but threats from Unilever won't be taken lightly. The company is the world's second largest advertiser, right behind Proctor & Gamble, the company that makes the other half of virtually everything Americans consume  with its brands like Crest, Herbal Essences, Dawn, Charmin, and Mr. Clean, just to name a few. Unilever spent $9 billion globally on advertising last year. And with more of those dollars moving to the digital space, Big Tech depends on those billions if it wants to keep growing. "As one of the largest advertisers in the world, we cannot have an environment where our consumers don't trust what they see online," Weed is expected to say. "And we cannot continue to prop up a digital supply chain  one that delivers over a quarter of our advertising to our consumers  which at times is little better than a swamp in terms of its transparency."

As with any effort by the tech giants to "police" their sites, the criteria used to determine hate speech, fake news, and extremism will be extremely subjective. Judging by this Gizmodo piece, the future does not look promising:

But it's not just Logan Paul who's causing headaches for these platforms. Advertisers are increasingly concerned about being associated with internet mediums that thrive on trickery. In some cases, kids are being tricked into watching disturbing, surrealist videos that are marketed as child-friendly. And in other cases, platforms like Google and Facebook are key drivers in spreading fake news. YouTube has tried to address its political problems by posting a notice to American users when they're watching state-sponsored "propaganda" like the Kremlin-funded RT. But so far it hasn't instituted similar warnings for propaganda outlets like Alex Jones'[s] Infowars and the White House's favorite cheerleaders, Fox News, which spread dangerous conspiracy theories and racist hate.

See what I mean?

Unilever is well within its rights to demand that its ads do not appear on objectionable sites. But in this case, who polices the policemen? Who is to decide if the tech giants remove sites that may be politically objectionable but clearly protected under the First Amendment?

I suspect that Unilever would be in bigger trouble if Big Tech began to remove conservative websites based on political content. What we've seen from them so far gives me zero confidence that they can be trusted with this kind of enormous power. There are clearly sites that should be blocked, including extremist jihadi sites, racist pages, and the sexualization of children. But you and I both know that it won't stop there, and unless Unilever makes it clear that it won't tolerate political censorship any more than hate sites, tech giants will take advantage.Posted on: February 12, 2018 1:24 PM

Thousands of Christians from across the West Indies gathered at a gymnasium in Bridgetown, Barbados, yesterday (Sunday) for a special service to honour, thank, pay tribute, and say farewell to Archbishop John Holder, ahead of his retirement at the end of this month. Tributes were also paid to his wife, Betty Lucas-Holder, and their son Stuart, for the support they had given him as priest, bishop and archbishop.

After working as a teacher and civil servant, Archbishop John was called to ordained ministry. He became a deacon in 1974 and a priest in 1976. He was consecrated as the 13th Bishop of his native Barbados in 2000, and became Archbishop of the West Indies in 2009.

On Friday night (9 February), the bishops of the province gathered for a dinner at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre to celebrate Archbishop Johns ministry. The Bishop of Jamaica & The Cayman Islands, Dr Howard Gregory, moved a toast on behalf of the bishops, saying that in his eight years as Primate, Archbishop John had contributed to the shaping of the episcopal and clerical leadership of the province in a way that would shape the life of the Church in this province for generations to come. He also made special reference to the Archbishops biblical scholarship, which is recognised both in the Caribbean and the wider Anglican Communion where his writings have been printed in various publications.

The Chief Justice of Barbados, the President of the Senate, and Members of Parliament were amongst the civil dignitaries in attendance at Sunday mornings service at the Sir Garfield Sobers Gymnasium.

After the Eucharist concluded, a number of speakers paid tribute to Archbishop John. Amongst them, Bishop Laish Boyd, of the Diocese of the Bahamas and Turks & Caicos Islands, who described Archbishop John as an example. He said: His words are listened to and listened out for. His insights are sought out and respected. He is unafraid to speak out, and to speak up when necessary. He is esteemed in Barbados, in the Caribbean and across the Anglican Communion.

File photo of Archbishop John Holder meeting Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby. At his farewell service yesterday, Archbishop John said that the Anglican Communion enabled him to give and receive advice beyond the shores of his province.

Photo: Diocese of Barbados

In his closing remarks, Archbishop John made reference to the Anglican Communion, and the advice he was able to give and receive from his fellow-primates. I was humbled by this experience of being aware that I could make a difference to the spiritual development of someone in Sudan, or in Jerusalem, or in South Africa or in Fiji, he said. I treasure the wisdom and the experience which I had access to [guide] my ministry as bishop and Archbishop. There are many times when sound advice was offered and accepted.

Archbishop John, who celebrates his 70th birthday on Friday, steps down later this month as Bishop of Barbados and Primate of the Church of the Province of the West Indies.

Watch the farewell service (duration: 3h 45m):Posted on: February 12, 2018 2:36 PM

The Christian Conference of Asia (CCA) ecumenical group has paid tribute to the internationally renowned Pakistani human rights lawyer Asma Jahangir, who died yesterday (Sunday) after suffering a stroke. She was 66-years-old. Jahangir had been closely associated with the human rights advocacy initiatives of the CCA and the World Council of Churches (WCC) for several years. Both the Asian and global ecumenical movement worked with Asma Jahangir on the global advocacy against the misuse of the blasphemy law in Pakistan.

Asma Jahangir co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. Both CCA and the WCC were partners of the Commission in their human rights advocacy on rights of religious minorities and democratisation in Pakistan.

Following news of her death, the CCA expressed its deep condolences to her family, friends and admirers. Asma Jahangir was a strong advocate for democratisation and human rights, and she promoted the cause of developing a counter liberal politics to challenge growing religious intolerance and politicisation of religion, CCAs General Secretary, Dr Mathews George Chunakara, said. She was concerned about the increasing trend of impunity among those who commit crimes in the name of religion, and she advocated that this trend has to be addressed with a sense of urgency.

Dr Chunakara said that while Jahangir served as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial, Summary and Arbitrary Executions and the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, he had several opportunities to work with her on behalf of the CCA and WCC in the 1990s and 2000s.

I remember her profound articulations on several occasions at the UN fora about the human rights violations and persecutions against religious minorities in different parts of the world, especially misuse of the blasphemy law in Pakistan, he said. While addressing the Asia plenary session of the Central Committee meeting of the WCC in the early 2000s, Asma Jahangir reminded the international ecumenical community how important it is to be careful about the trend in many countries bringing religion into legislations, as the law itself can become an instrument of persecution against religious minorities.

Jahangir was put under house arrest in 2007 after the imposition of emergency rule in Pakistan. She had been an ardent critic of authoritarianism and imposition of the emergency. She had been a tenacious fighter for democratisation and civil rights in Pakistan.

After serving as one of the leaders of the Lawyers Movement, she became the first woman to serve as President of Pakistans Supreme Court Bar Association. She provided leadership for several Asian human rights organisations as well as for the International Federation for Human Rights; and contributed to UN panels inquiring into Sri Lankan human rights violations and a fact-finding mission on Israeli settlements.Oxfam feasted on the young meat barbecues

The Times scoop that Oxfam put its reputation ahead of the needs of the people it purports to save is a cracker. Oxfam staffers saw in peoples pain and destitution a chance to abuse and debase Haitians. The numbers around the January 2010 earthquake are staggering: 220,000 lives lost; 300,000 injured; 1.5 million people destitute. Oxfam arrived on the seen. Its 230 staff had a mission to help. The senior staffers also had money, the backing of the British state and the power that brings. A whistleblower spoke out:

The group lived in a guesthouse rented by Oxfam that they called the pink apartments  they called it the whorehouse. They were throwing big parties with prostitutes. These girls were wearing Oxfam T-shirts, running around half-naked, it was a like a full-on Caligula orgy. It was unbelievable. It was crazy. At one party there were at least five girls and two of them had Oxfam white T-shirts on. These men used to talk about holding young meat barbecues.

The charity is in full panic mode. Exposed as complicit in morally despicable and criminal acts (prostitution is illegal in Haiti) including the allegation of sex with underage women  which should be called out for what it is: child rape  chief executive Mark Goldring told staff that The Times report very, very hard to read. The truth for those who wanted it hidden, as is alleged, often is.

Roland van Hauwermeiren, Oxfams top man in Haiti who bought women, was afforded a phased and dignified exit. No blemish on his CV was recorded, doubtless helping him secure a job running a charity in Bangladesh. Three other senior staffers were sacked. No word on their resumes, neither. Oxfam covered up the sleaze.

On September 5, 2011, Oxfam issued a press statement reporting that a small number of staff had been involved in a number of instances of misconduct. Misconduct? It stressed that it was not related to fraud and did not affect the approximately US$98 million Oxfam fundraised following the earthquake in Haiti. Phew! Just using the money to have sex with the vulnerable and dispossessed youre rode into town to help. So long as youre investing in the local economy and not stealing it.

You wonder who was being helped? Libby Purves writes:

We are the West, we know best! It is no surprise that last year Haiti banned 257 NGOs for being, as the minister Aviol Fleurant put it, disconnected from the priorities and needs of the Haitian people.

Hes not wrong. In 2011, Oxfam quoted Roland Van Hauwermeiren, country director for Oxfam in Haiti:

Too many donors from rich countries have pursued their own aid priorities and have not effectively coordinated amongst themselves or worked with the Haitian government

If Haitians are to support themselves then the reconstruction effort must also give priority to helping people earn a living. Above all else, Haitians want to get back to work and provide for their families.

Ah, yes, think of the children.

Anorak

Posted: 12th, February 2018 | In: News Comment | TrackBack | Permalink(ANSA) - Rome, February 12 - Green Party leader Angelo Bonelli, a parliamentary candidate for the Insieme (Together) list, told a Facebook-ANSA Live Forum on Monday that he was not necessarily against a grand-coalition government if the result of the March 4 general election is inconclusive. "If it were about changing the election law, then certainly yes," Bonelli said when asked about the possibility of a grand coalition.

"But, above all, let's see if there is a majority or not.

"If there were a majority that identifies some important points for the country, such as jobs or innovation, we'll consider it.

"If it's a question of putting together a grand-coalition government for other reasons, then we would be absolutely against".

Bonelli said he would even be willing to form a coalition with the anti-establishment 5-Star movement "if ecology is at the centre of the agenda".

ROME - Tension between Cyprus and Turkey risks escalating over the case of Italian energy giant ENI's drillship in the eastern Mediterranean, which was halted Saturday by a Turkish Navy ship. Drillship Saipem 12000 was on its way to Block 6 to start its activity under a license provided by Cyprus. It is now staying put while awaiting indications. The Italian foreign ministry is following the case ''at the highest levels'' and is in contact with the Italian embassies in Turkey and Cyprus while pursuing ''all possible diplomatic steps to resolve the issue''.

Nicosia is reassuring. ''We are managing the situation'', stressed yesterday the president of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, adding that the intention is to ''avoid any escalation''. However, he said, ''Turkey's actions are violating international law''. ''The government keeps calm to avoid any crisis and is taking the necessary steps so that the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus are respected'', added Anastasiades.

The issue however still needs to be solved. Ankara yesterday, through its foreign ministry, once again criticized Nicosia over hydrocarbon drilling off its coasts calling such activity ''unilateral''. The ministry said it undermines ''inalienable rights on natural resources of Turkish-Cypriots'' and the ''stability of the region''. The government of Nicosia is acting as if it were ''the only owner of the island'', the Turkish ministry said, warning Cyprus of the possible consequences.

The same source in Ankara also delivered the message to foreign oil companies not to support the activities of Cyprus' government. President Erdogan, after recently travelling to Italy, said he was against ENI's operations in the ''eastern Mediterranean'', expressing Turkey's ''concern'' to President Sergio Mattarella and Premier Paolo Gentiloni.

TEL AVIV - At least six died as Israel and Iran clashed on the Golan, according to the death toll released by the Syrian Observatory for Human rights. The UK-based monitoring group said victims included ''Syrians and non-Syrians'' but did not elaborate on the other nationalities of victims on Saturday.

The conflict has become ''evident'' - as defined by some Israeli military commentators - and began when an Iranian drone infiltrated Israeli airspace, which was followed by Israel's double operation in Syria and when an Israeli F16 warplane was downed, according to Damascus. Premier Benyamin Netanyahu yesterday hailed the strength of the strikes on Syria. After expressing pride for the two pilots of the downed F16, Netanyahu said his military had dealt ''severe blows'' to Iranian and Syrian forces.

Israel ''clarified unequivocally'' that it will ''continue to strike any attempt to strike us'', the premier also said on Sunday.

The US sided with Israel, stressing the ''rights'' of the Jewish State in defending itself from Syrian militias supported by Iran in southern Syria. The White House then asked Tehran and its allies to stop ''provocative actions'' and start working for peace in the region.

Israeli intelligence minister Yisrael Katz and the military also warned Iran not to entrench in Syria or near the Israeli border. And if Saturday's round appears to be over - reports of more Israeli raids have been denied - many military commentators in Israel say that this was the first step in an inevitable conflict in the near future if the situation remains unchanged.

The first issue - as stressed by Judah Ari Gross on the 'Times of Israel' and Yossi Yehoshua on 'Ynet' - is that the conflict has now become evident, giving a ''taste'' of the upcoming war. Amos Harel expressed the same opinion on Haaretz and spoke about an ''inevitable'' clash. Everyone said that Saturday's events were a step enabling the two sides to test each other's capabilities.

Energy: Morocco's platform for Africa with Photovoltaica Marrakech studies renewable energy: Italy among role models

(ANSAmed) - RABAT, FEBRUARY 13 - The international congress on renewable energy 'Photovoltaica' is opening its doors on February 13-15 in Marrakech and vies to become a platform for projects across Africa.



Morocco has a development plan based on four pillars - socio-economic, environmental, social and cultural aspects - and has been working during the past few years to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions. More has to be accomplished in the renewable energy sector, which is why the third edition of 'Photovoltaica', called 'Towards sustainable development in Africa', at the palace of Congress, wants to become the top international fair in Africa on renewable energy.



Italy is one of the role models; participants include Res4Med, the platform to promote renewable energy in the Mediterranean, Res4Africa and Enel GreenPower, researching how to liberalize Morocco's electricity market.



When the development plan will be effective, Morocco will be able to save up to 6 GDP points with a gross expenditure of 2%.



Sun, wind and relevant water resources have allowed the country to gain a leading role in Africa on renewable energy.



By 2030 it will however need to provide a 185% increase in energy demand and 68% more in electricity.



Created thanks to the cooperation between the ministry of energy, mining, water and sustainable development with the Moroccan agency of renewables (Masen) and the sector's investment company Sie, the forum in Marrakech, with its over 700 guests, vies to be a place of exchanges and collaborations among countries and companies in the sector. Organizers are investing a lot on meetings between institutional African figures and investors, hoping that Photovoltaica will promote projects across the continent, starting from the Moroccan platform. (ANSAmed).



AMMAN - From the backdrop of ancient Amman to busy malls in northern city of Irbid, young Jordanian artists are flocking to showcase their talents thanks to an initiative by the EU delegation to unravel hidden talents in the kingdom.

The Rise Talent Competition has been launched to bring musicians from their homes to the streets of the kingdom in a bid to drive up the music movement. The project was launched earlier in February and will continue throughout the month to attract largest number possible of talents. In an open message to local community, EU Ambassador to Jordan, Andrea Matteo Fontana, called for "anyone who likes to sing, play an instrument or paint" to reveal themselves through posts on social media, and let the public to be the judge, according to the project Facebook page.

After sharing their creations online, artists will be assessed on the number of votes, comments and shares generated by their videos and the most popular ones in each category will be selected to enter an official evaluation by a professional jury.

According to EU officials, the winners will enter specialized training programmes while others can also see their work promoted. In order to enter the competition, submissions must be uploaded on one of Rise Talents' social media pages, accompanied with one of the following hashtags in English or Arabic.MADRID - A Spanish coast guard cutter last night rescued 29 migrants from a boat that was sinking some seven miles off the coast of Granada.

According to some sources, at least five other passengers are missing.

The boat was sighted by a merchant ship as it was struggling in poor weather conditions. About a dozen of the 29 rescued migrants were saved by crew from the Salvamar cutter when they were already in the sea and about to drown. They included four heavily pregnant women. The migrants were transferred to the port of Motril, where they were assisted, upon landing at 3 am local time, by Red Cross personnel. Some of them were transferred to hospital with hypothermia symptoms while rescuers are still searching for the missing passengers.

On Sunday, an additional 45 migrants from sub-Sahara landed at the port of Motril. They were rescued by coast guards off the island of Alboran aboard a vessel in difficulty that had departed from Buyafar on the northern coast of Morocco.

Since the start of the year, at least 393 migrants drowned or disappeared at sea as they attempted to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe's coast, according to data released by the 'Missing Migrants' project of the International Organization for Migration (OIM). According to the death toll, which was last updated on February 9, 85 of the victims drowned as they were travelling to Spain: 15 in the area of the Gibraltar Strait, one off San Lucar de Barrameda (Cadiz), two in the sea of Alboran, 47 off Melilla and others in Algerian or Moroccan territorial waters.

Syria: 'over 1,350 terrorists killed in Afrin', Turkey says 'New air raids overnight, 15 targets destroyed'

(ANSAmed) - ISTANBUL, FEBRUARY 12 - Turkish armed forces said they have ''neutralized'' - killed, wounded or imprisoned - 1,369 ''terrorists'' with the Kurdish YPG and ISIS since the start of their offensive on the Kurdish-Syrian Afrin enclave on January 20, according to a statement.



The statement also said that new air raids on the area were carried out last night, destroying 15 targets including refuges and armed and munitions depots. The report can't be independently verified on the ground and widely differs with reports from other local sources.



According to Ankara, at least 13 Turkish soldiers died in the 'Olive branch' operation. (ANSAmed).



Ankara US embassy street name to honour Afrin campaign War of symbols against US support for Syrian Kurds

(ANSAmed) - ISTANBUL, FEBRUARY 12 - The tension between Turkey and the United States over American support for the Syrian Kurds of YPG has also become a war of symbols. The mayor of Ankara, Mustafa Tuna, has said that on Monday evening the city council governed by the AKP of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will vote to change the name of the road hosting the US embassy to 'Olive Branch' after the name of the Turkish military operation currently underway against the Kurdish-Syrian enclave of Afrin. The initiative comes just a few days ahead of the arrival in Turkey of US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.



On Monday Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said bilateral relations with the US "are at a very critical point".



(ANSAmed).



ANSAmed - Tomorrow's events in the Mediterranean

(ANSAmed) - ROME, FEBRUARY 12 - These are some of the main events scheduled for tomorrow in the Euro-Mediterranean area: MARRAKECH - The third edition of Photovoltaica, which focuses on alternative energy kicks off (through 15/2).



KUWAIT CITY - Ministerial meeting of the International Coalition against the Islamic State with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini (also 14/2). TEL AVIV - Hearing in a trial against Ahed Tamimi, a 17-year-old Palestinian accused of incitement and of repeatedly hitting two Israeli soldiers. BEIRUT - Anniversary of the death of Hezbollah commander Imad Moughniyah. MILAN - International Tourism Bourse, with Turkey's participation). ABU DHABI - Exhibition titled 'From Barcelona to Abu Dhabi: Works from the MACBA Art Collection in Dialogue with the Emirates' runs until March 17. (ANSAmed).



ROME - The Greek foreign ministry on Monday said in a statement that ''Turkey is continuing to challenge international law by flagrantly violating the sovereign rights of Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean'', referring to ''Turkey's illegal actions in the ZEE of Cyprus''.

Turkish warships on Saturday prevented a rig of Italian energy giant ENI from reaching an area off Cyprus to begin searching for gas.

''We ask Turkey not to take further action and to respect obligations under international law'', the statement also said, adding that ''Turkey's provocative behavior'' is incoherent with the behavior of a country applying for EU membership.

Athens applauded instead the moderate stance taken by Cyprus, saying the country ''reaffirmed its role as a pillar of stability in the eastern Mediterranean''.Israeli airstrikes kill six in clash with Syria and Iran Netanyahu, 'severe blow'. US tells Tehran to stop provocations

(ANSAmed) - TEL AVIV, FEBRUARY 12 - At least six died as Israel and Iran clashed on the Golan, according to the death toll released by the Syrian Observatory for Human rights. The UK-based monitoring group said victims included ''Syrians and non-Syrians'' but did not elaborate on the other nationalities of victims on Saturday.



The conflict has become ''evident'' - as defined by some Israeli military commentators - and began when an Iranian drone infiltrated Israeli airspace, which was followed by Israel's double operation in Syria and when an Israeli F16 warplane was downed, according to Damascus. Premier Benyamin Netanyahu yesterday hailed the strength of the strikes on Syria. After expressing pride for the two pilots of the downed F16, Netanyahu said his military had dealt ''severe blows'' to Iranian and Syrian forces.



Israel ''clarified unequivocally'' that it will ''continue to strike any attempt to strike us'', the premier also said on Sunday.



The US sided with Israel, stressing the ''rights'' of the Jewish State in defending itself from Syrian militias supported by Iran in southern Syria. The White House then asked Tehran and its allies to stop ''provocative actions'' and start working for peace in the region.



Israeli intelligence minister Yisrael Katz and the military also warned Iran not to entrench in Syria or near the Israeli border. And if Saturday's round appears to be over - reports of more Israeli raids have been denied - many military commentators in Israel say that this was the first step in an inevitable conflict in the near future if the situation remains unchanged.



The first issue - as stressed by Judah Ari Gross on the 'Times of Israel' and Yossi Yehoshua on 'Ynet' - is that the conflict has now become evident, giving a ''taste'' of the upcoming war. Amos Harel expressed the same opinion on Haaretz and spoke about an ''inevitable'' clash. Everyone said that Saturday's events were a step enabling the two sides to test each other's capabilities. (ANSAmed).



'Military escalation in Syria deeply worrying'  EU No alternative but a political solution, spokeswoman says

(ANSAmed) - BRUSSELS, FEBRUARY 12 - The "military escalation throughout Syria, including the events we have seen on the Israeli border over the weekend, is deeply worrying. It could indeed lead to a dangerous spillover," a spokeswoman for the European Commission told journalists on Monday. There can be no alternative but a political solution, she added. "We urge the Syrian parties, their allies, as well as the regional actors to abide by international law, to show restraint, and avoid actions that further escalate the situation and prolong the suffering of Syrian civilians," the spokeswoman concluded. (ANSAmed).



Tension Ankara-Nicosia, Italy following ENI drillship case Turkey-Cyprus clash on Mediterranean exploration

(ANSAmed) - ROME, FEBRUARY 12 - Tension between Cyprus and Turkey risks escalating over the case of Italian energy giant ENI's drillship in the eastern Mediterranean, which was halted Saturday by a Turkish Navy ship. Drillship Saipem 12000 was on its way to Block 6 to start its activity under a license provided by Cyprus. It is now staying put while awaiting indications. The Italian foreign ministry is following the case ''at the highest levels'' and is in contact with the Italian embassies in Turkey and Cyprus while pursuing ''all possible diplomatic steps to resolve the issue''.



Nicosia is reassuring. ''We are managing the situation'', stressed yesterday the president of the Republic, Nicos Anastasiades, adding that the intention is to ''avoid any escalation''. However, he said, ''Turkey's actions are violating international law''. ''The government keeps calm to avoid any crisis and is taking the necessary steps so that the sovereign rights of the Republic of Cyprus are respected'', added Anastasiades.



The issue however still needs to be solved. Ankara yesterday, through its foreign ministry, once again criticized Nicosia over hydrocarbon drilling off its coasts calling such activity ''unilateral''. The ministry said it undermines ''inalienable rights on natural resources of Turkish-Cypriots'' and the ''stability of the region''. The government of Nicosia is acting as if it were ''the only owner of the island'', the Turkish ministry said, warning Cyprus of the possible consequences.



The same source in Ankara also delivered the message to foreign oil companies not to support the activities of Cyprus' government. President Erdogan, after recently travelling to Italy, said he was against ENI's operations in the ''eastern Mediterranean'', expressing Turkey's ''concern'' to President Sergio Mattarella and Premier Paolo Gentiloni. (ANSAmed).



Thank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading.The agreement, signed in the presence of Mr Philippe, France Prime Minister and His Excellency Mohammed Bin Rachid Al Maktoum, United Arab Emirates Vice President and Prime Minister and Emir of Dubai, is the first concrete result of the agreement signed on 9 November 2017 during President Emmanuel Macrons state visit to the United Arab Emirates, which committed CNES and UAESA to:

-Supporting the proposal to create a Space Climate Observatory (SCO) through the Paris Declaration adopted at the One Planet Summit in Paris on 12 December 2017.

-Deepening the cooperation on Earth observation between the two nations to increase the role of space missions in tackling climate change.

-Encouraging closer exchanges between CNES and UAESA teams to consolidate the results of climate change research from both sides.

France and the United Arab Emirates are very active in promoting international cooperation on space for climate, in particular through the Mexico, New Delhi and Marrakesh Declarations and through their support for the decisions taken at the One Planet Summit, among them the creation of the SCO.

After the signature, Jean-Yves Le Gall commented: This new agreement between CNES and UAESA reaffirms our two nations desire to move forward together in space. France is a key space player and the United Arab Emirates is among the new space powers now developing new programmes and missions. Todays signature marks the start of this joint hyperspectral Earth-imaging mission. Our teams will be meeting in a months time in Toulouse to work on defining and planning the programme, and we will be conducting a first progress review at the start of May in Abu Dhabi during the Global Space Congress.Turkish Airlines has announced its 2018 January passenger and cargo traffic results.

The national flag carrier of Turkey reached the highest Load Factor in January with 79.8% in its history. Total number of passengers carried went up by 37% reaching 5.7 million passengers. Thus, 5 million passenger level is exceeded first time in Turkish Airlines history for the month of January.

According to the recently announced January 2018 Traffic Results:

 Turkish Airlines reached the highest Load Factor in January with 79.8%. Total Load Factor improved by 7.3 points to 79.8% with an increase of 17% in Available Seat Kilometer, while international LF increased by 7.5 points to 78.6%. Domestic and International flights have reached the highest January LF of Turkish Airlines history.

 Double digit growth in demand (revenue per kilometer) that commenced in July 2017, kept on with 29% demand growth in January 2018.

 Excluding international-to-international transfer passengers (transit passengers), number of international passengers went up by 45%.

 In January, cargo/mail volume increased by 34%, compared to January 2017. Main contributors to the growth in cargo/mail volume, are Middle East with 45% increase, Domestic Lines with 44% increase and and Europe with 39% increase.

 In January, Load Factor increased for all regions. North America, Middle East, Central America, South America and Africa showed visible growth among other regions with 13 points, 1 points, 9 points and 8 points increase, respectively.The best scene in any play in London right now (dont argue, Im not listening) opens the second act in John by Annie Baker. Three women  Mertis, who runs a guesthouse in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania; her close friend Genevieve; and the much younger Jenny, who is staying at the guesthouse with her boyfriend  discuss the interior life of dolls.

Jenny: When I was little I was always worried about my dolls. I had this one doll, um, Samantha, and I always felt like she was incredibly angry at me.

Genevieve: Of course she was angry.  Angry to be a doll! To be a piece of plastic or glass and to be shaped into human form and trapped! With one expression on your face! Frozen! People manhandling you. And then put in a dress. Put in an itchy little dress!

Jenny: Yeah. Exactly. I felt like she was mad that she was a doll and mad at me for not doing a better job making her life as a doll easier.  I would get up in the middle of the night and lock her in the kitchen cupboard. So I wouldnt feel her watching me. But then the next morning shed be even more mad cuz shed spent all night in the cupboard! And then Id cry and beg her forgiveness.

Mertis: And would she forgive you?

Jenny: Nope. She never forgave me.

Its capable of anything

An identical Samantha doll  heritage jewel of the American Girl collection  is on display in the guesthouse, with a host of inanimate colleagues. Mertis begins each scene by trundling open the red stage curtains, and the first time, theres a giggle-gasp from the audience. The room is decorated to near delirium (designer Chloe Lamford responds with unholy glee to Bakers stage directions). There are costume dolls and scarlet-capped gnomes with red felt hearts and a chamber orchestra of porcelain angels. There are dolls on the shelves, dolls on the piano, dolls dandling their legs from each tread of the stairs. There are tubby doll babies in sailor suits, a santa on the mini-fridge, even a gnome on top of the grandfather clock.

Your home away from home, beams Mertis to her guests, which is pretty terrifying. You cant imagine how oppressive it would be to live with so much adornment, so many unplayable toys. How would you walk about without knocking things over (Mertis charts a careful route between rooms)? And lets not even think about the dusting.

Stuffed animals might be odd but endearing, but they cant even encroach on the national park of weird that is a collection of dolls. What pleasure, what consolation does kindly, uncanny Mertis take from her battalion of voiceless homunculi? What are the dolls doing in this cosy, unsettling house (You know its haunted, Genevieve insists. You know its capable of anything).

Baker often portrays people fumbling their way through a dark fog. The dudes in The Aliens, lounging illicitly behind a coffeeshop; the acting class in Circle, Mirror, Transformation, looking to find themselves through improvisation; the achingly unhappy cinema ushers in The Flick. Young and confused meet older and confused.

Grasping for grace

In John, Baker takes her epigraph from Heinrich von Kleists arresting essay, The Puppet Theatre (1810). It reads, in part, grace appears most purely in the human form which either has no consciousness or an infinite consciousness. That is, in the puppet or the god. Kleists marionettes offer a beautiful image of unselfconsciousness  they can soar into grace because shame or self-awareness cannot distort or hold them back. Humans, on the other hand, can too easily be jolted out of confidence, grasp impossibly for grace.

You see this in the tentative way that Bakers characters negotiate their lives. Jenny and her boyfriend Elias, skirting around arguments then blundering into them; Mertis ruminating on questions that seem startlingly personal, though delivered with an apologetic hesitance. Only Genevieve, who has endured a lot, has the confidence to pronounce. In the second interval, she steps out from the curtain to tell us her secret  that since going blind on the night of her 57th birthday, she feels as if she is sitting at the centre of [her] own life with no thoughts at all about what other people are thinking. It must be a powerful state of being.

Dolls, perhaps, are there already. Especially the look-but-dont-touch dolls of an adult collector, made for display but not play; they have an incorporate sufficiency, a solidity in their glass and plastic. In a story riddled with unseen characters, especially unreliable men (like Mertis sickly husband, Genevieves hostile ex and the title character himself), the dolls feel weightily present. They know where theyre going (nowhere). They know what they want (nothing). They dont care what you think.

Mertis dolls wear bonnets and pinafores; they have full-length gowns and a deal of flounce. They arent brashly self-aware Barbies or Bratz (their litigious evolution finely skewered by Jill Lepore). Those consumerist stormtroopers are simperingly adult before their time; Mertis heritage collection isnt sexy but forbiddingly grown-up.

And none more so than Samantha, looming over the stage from a door frame, and described by Baker as a terrifying American Girl doll in a doll-sized rocking chair. My pal  the unfailingly excellent Veronica Horwell  filled me in on Samantha, a doyenne of the American Girl collection and one of the most popular out of its 70-odd dolls. All the history-based dolls, on which the companys success was built (it was later taken over by Mattel), came with their own didactic backstories, books, telly specials or moviettes, and Samanthas was a wealthier life than most.

This sent me down a doll-stippled wormhole. I learned that Samantha Parkington is an Edwardian orphan (her parents died in a boating accident), being raised in 1904 by her strict grandmother but inspired by her suffragette aunt. I watched a film about Samantha, her blend of propriety and philanthropy (she befriends and educates Nellie OMalley, a servant girl). I explored her outfits: Samantha wears a dress in checked taffeta in burgundy, brown, and ivory, with a hair bow in matching fabric. Underneath (as Elias cruelly reveals), are white cotton bloomer-style underpants with elastic around the legs to make them puffy. Her accessories include a heart-shaped locket containing pictures of her dead parents.

She was launched in 1986, archived in 2009 but re-released in 2014, because nobody puts Samantha in the corner, let alone in a box in the basement. She was a status object in the late 1990s, Veronica wrote. Nice outfits and accessories, and full-scale versions were produced so a girl could be dressed like, pass as, her doll. Theres a sentence to make the blood run cold. Samantha doesnt bend to a childs needs; instead, you shape your identity around Samanthas. Although some fans claim her for feminism, Jane Duh on betches.com relates her to the entitled Cher in Clueless, and ranks her as undoubtedly the betchiest of all the American girl dolls (theres some competition, as every American Girl Doll is at least a little bit betchy because they are expensive as fuck and dont do anything).

Why does Baker make Samantha the presiding deity of John? She carries a sense of heritage (though not as early as the civil war that shadows Gettysburg), and a prickle of surveillance, looking down from her high perch (Do you ever feel watched? Mertis asks. Well, yes. Yes, we do). Maybe shes someone whose choices have been taken from her, or conversely someone serene within them  a moulded icon of American girlhood that mere humans can never attain. She may be an orphan, but isnt forlorn  rather she seems self-created. It seems telling that Mertis cant remember acquiring Samantha  rather, it is as if she just arrived, or has always been there.

My favourite part is ripping out the hair

Dolls can provoke as much bracing fury as they do affection. Lepores New Yorker article on Barbie inspired Violette Sera Delfina Hiser Skilling,11, to write in recommending doll reconstruction: erase the features of the doll with nail-polish remover, and then remove the hair and make other body modifications My favourite part is ripping out the hair, which is very therapeutic. Theres a thrilling iconoclasm in this makeover, and you wonder if similar righteous violence lies behind the FAQ on the American Girl website  about what to do if a dolls hair or neck cord has been cut, her face has been inked, her arms chewed by a dog, or her head pulled off. Its no accident that the tensest scene in John sees an assault on Samantha. Samantha may have warped Jennys childhood, but to see the household god under attack is more than she can bear.

The dolls in John wouldnt give us the shivers if we, like Genevieve, felt secure in our place at the centre of the universe, serenely unselfconscious. But were not, most of us. When Genevieve says goodbye, she does it with wit and grace. When Jenny attempts to respond, she doesnt get further than I hope we um Even small talk is too huge. What can we learn from the dolls? That assurance may not be ours, not in this lifetime? That grace isnt ours to hold? Or that we should get out while we can, run before were moulded into miserable immobility?

Samantha and her fellow Pennsylvania tchotchkes are just props, just matter. We probably shouldnt project a glassy wall of hostility from their sightless gaze. Still, I imagine the last member of the stage crew to leave the theatre each night shivering with unease as they stand alone in the gloom, object of so many frozen, angry eyes.

Production photo of John by Stephen Cumminsky; Samantha sitting top right

Follow David on Twitter: @mrdavidjaysFor public banks, overall SMA book has declined to 5.3 per cent of loans in second quarter of 2017-18.

The gross dud assets ratio jumped from 7.23 per cent to cross the double digits mark at 10.35 per cent during the quarter under review.

New Delhi: The bad loan situation appears tobe improving for private as well as public sector banks (PSBs) as the pipeline of accounts that may turn into stressed assets is shrinking, says a report.

According to the Kotak Institutional Equities report, the overall trends on Special Mention Accounts (SMAs) portfolio is on a decline. SMAs are those accounts that may turn into a stressed asset. Such a classification makes it easy to identify and tackle the problem better.

"The decline (in SMA) is visible in both public and private banks from a peak of 7-9 per cent to 3.5-5 per cent in second quarter of this fiscal year," Kotak Institutional Equities said in a report adding "maintain our view on impairment outlook as recovery is already underway".

"Most of the underlying operating performance of public banks is suggesting that the slippages are gradually easing," M B Mahesh of Kotak Institutional Equities said in the note.

"We don't expect a steep decline as we still have issues to be resolved, especially in the power sector. With relatively healthier provision coverage levels, we should expect banks to accelerate the resolution process," he said.

The report further noted that the overall SMA buckets have been declining on absolute as well as on ratio basis. "Outstanding SMA portfolio has declined to 4.6 per cent of loans in September 2017 from a peak of 8.4 per cent in December 2015 when the RBI completed its asset quality review across banks," it said.

For public banks, the overall SMA book has declined to 5.3 per cent of loans in the second quarter of 2017-18 as compared to a peak of 9.2 per cent in the third quarter of 2015-16, the report said.

For private banks, the overall SMA book has declined to 3.5 per cent in the second quarter of 2017-18 loans, from a peak of 7.6 per cent of loans in the third quarter of 2015-16.

Meanwhile, State Bank of India saw its net bad loans ratio spike to 5.61 per cent of advances, from 4.24 per cent during the third quarter of 2017-18.

The gross dud assets ratio jumped from 7.23 per cent to cross the double digits mark at 10.35 per cent during the quarter under review.The members of Punjab Film Censor Board refused to watch the film saying it was based on a "taboo subject".

Mumbai: According to the latest reports, Akshay Kumar starrer 'PadMan' has been banned in Pakistan.

It however did not go well with the Twitterati and they took the microblogging site by storm. Many women in Pakistan slammed the decision and supported the release of the film in the country.

Ammara Ahwad, a Pakistani journalist, wrote on Twitter, "Yes, Pakistani Women menstruate too. I support #Padman and menstrual hygiene. Ban on @PadManTheFilm in Pakistan is senseless. Release it now."

Yes, Pakistani Women menstruate too. I support #Padman and menstrual hygiene. Ban on @PadManTheFilm in Pakistan is senseless. Release it now. pic.twitter.com/KpsTL6Rc3a  Ammara Ahmad (@ammarawrites) February 10, 2018

Another journalist, named Gharidah Farooqi, expressed her anger and said, "Against our traditions & culture" Oh well, coz women don't menstruate here... What stupid people sitting at Censor Board ! #PadMan must be allowed in Pakistan ! "

"Against our traditions & culture" Oh well, coz women don't menstruate here... What stupid people sitting at Censor Board ! #PadMan must be allowed in Pakistan ! https://t.co/S7PUfBV9ak  Gharidah Farooqi (@GFarooqi) February 10, 2018

Mehr Tarar, the Pakistani columnist who sparred on Twitter with Congress' Shashi Tharoor's wife Sunanda Pushkar, was also not left behind.

"Banning PadMan in Pakistan is another one of those illogical things that simply affect the business of cinemas in Pakistan.

Menstruation is a fact of life, and bringing it to mainstream consciousness is neither immoral nor un-Islamic," she wrote on Twitter.

Banning PadMan in Pakistan is another one of those illogical things that simply affect the business of cinemas in Pakistan.

Menstruation is a fact of life, and bringing it to mainstream consciousness is neither immoral nor un-Islamic.  Mehr Tarar (@MehrTarar) February 10, 2018

Mona Alam, a journalist, lashed the Pakistan censor board's move to ban PadMan.

"Insecurity, illiteracy & double standards of #Pakistani filmmakers who're okay with dirty raunchy item numbers but consider "unislamic" to film a social awareness topic of #menstruation on #WomenEmpowerment

Censor board, ??move," she wrote on the micro-blogging site.

Insecurity, illiteracy & double standards of #Pakistani filmmakers who're okay with dirty raunchy item numbers but consider "unislamic" to film a social awareness topic of #menstruation on #WomenEmpowerment

Censor board, move#Padman banned in #Pakistan https://t.co/MHfDx1zVys  Mona Alam (@MonaAlamm) February 10, 2018

A Pakistani woman wrote on Twitter as well, "Banning padman in Pakistan just shows how we havent mentally progressed as a nation. Utterly disappointing."

Banning padman in Pakistan just shows how we havent mentally progressed as a nation. Utterly disappointing.  Amna Mazhar (@ozilinaa) February 10, 2018

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Government wrote on its official handle, "The decision to issue an NOC by the Ministry of Information Broadcasting National History and Literary Heritage is yet to be taken on the release of a foreign feature film "Padman" as the film has not yet been pre-viewed by the Central Board of Film Censors."

The decision to issue an NOC by the Ministry of Information Broadcasting National History and Literary Heritage is yet to be taken on the release of a foreign feature film "Padman" as the film has not yet been pre-viewed by the Central Board of Film Censors. pic.twitter.com/NExGsWGV8M  Govt of Pakistan (@pid_gov) February 11, 2018

On Saturday, Pakistan's Federal Censor Board refused to gives its nod for the release of 'PadMan' saying it was against "traditions and culture of the country."

Also, the members of Punjab Film Censor Board refused to watch the film saying it was based on a "taboo subject" and outrightly rejected any clearance certificate to it.

"We can't allow the screening of films on taboo subjects in our cinemas as it is not in our culture, society or even religion," a member of the Punjab Film Censor Board stated.

'PadMan' which stars Akshay Kumar, Radhika Apte and Sonam Kapoor in pivotal roles, was released in India on February 8. The film deals with menstrual hygiene.

The film is inspired by the life of Arunachalam Muruganantham, a social activist from Tamil Nadu who introduced low-cost sanitary pads to villages in India.Responding to a question on Rajinikanth joining politics, Haasan did not rule out an electoral alliance with him.

Cambridge/Chennai: Movie actor- turned-politician Kamal Haasan has made it clear that any political alliance with superstar Rajinikanth is unlikely if his colour is "saffron", in an apparent reference to the BJP.

Haasan, who had recently announced his foray into the electoral politics, said that his "true purpose today is to challenge the status quo and mediocrity in politics, that is plaguing the state of Tamil Nadu."

Responding to a question on Rajinikanth joining politics, Haasan did not rule out an electoral alliance with him if there is some commonality of thoughts and ideas between them and similarities in their manifestos. But, he quickly referred to the sharp differences between them on religion and on 'saffron', which was interpreted as the BJP.

"I hope Rajini's colour is not saffron. Alliance with Rajini is unlikely if his colour is saffron," Haasan said at the annual Indian conference of the prestigious Harvard University.

"I cannot see a clear understanding now," Haasan said when pressed by moderator Barkha Dutt on the sharp ideological differences he has with Rajinikanth.

But he kept the doors open.

"If necessary (I will hold hands with others)," Haasan said, noting that this is unlikely to be the case.

He also ruled out a post-poll alliance.

"If there is no majority, its the people's verdict. Then I would not have to sit but stand and wait for the next time," he said, indicating that he would prefer to be in the Opposition if his party does not get a majority.

"The reason that I have started a new political party itself shows that I want to walk with the people and not politicians," he said.

"All is not well with Tamil Nadu," he said, slamming the current lot of political class in his state.

The entry of the two top Tamil film stars comes against the backdrop of a perceived vacuum in Tamil Nadu politics after former chief minister J Jayalalithaa's death in 2016 and the ill-health of DMK chief M Karunanidhi for over a year following which he was inactive in politics.

Responding to a question on the so-called love jihad, the actor said, "I think that a new revolution is on its way. I do not know about jihad, but love would triumph hate."

Haasan said Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party head Arvind Kejriwal had met him in Chennai and offered an alliance with his party.

"I intend to take it (the experience) not only from Mr Kejriwal but from others as well," he said.

In his keynote address, Haasan rued that there is status quo and mediocrity in Tamil Nadu.

Confident of raising funds for the elections, Haasan called upon the Tamil community across the world to come up with ideas. He will a major announcement on February 21.

He also announced to adopt a village each in every district of the state as part of his objective to reimagining and rebuilding Tamil Nadu.

"I am announcing a plan of adopting a village in every district of Tamil Nadu... With the vision of making them the best villages in the world," he said.

Hasan said that he will begin with one village and then scale up it to every district of Tamil Nadu.

The film star quoted Mahatma Gandhi's idea of a self- reliant and self-sustainable village.Known for making intense and dark films in the past, Onir tried his hands with out-and-out romantic film.

Mumbai: Probably one of the most underrated directors of our country, Onir has always maintained to sketch his male and female characters at par especially in this patriarchal industry, I have grown up in a household where my parents have equal roles. All three of us are treated equally. Honestly speaking, I find women more interesting. I am always inspired by my sister and mother who are a great story tellers. So, I owe to all these beautiful ladies. In all my films, women characters have their own identity and they are not just supporting to the male actors. Also, they are the active participants in the change that happens in my films, Onir adds.

Known for making intense and dark films in the past, Onir tried his hands with out-and-out romantic film for the first time. When the script came to me, I just fell in love with it. It talked about lonely souls looking out for that one person who will accept you the way you are. It touched me a lot. No doubt, the medium is internet but the core love is same. The film is all about finding love, acceptance and inner beauty. Sometimes, you are broken by constant rejections but someday you accept yourself that makes easier to deal with others.

On promoting fresh talent in his films, Onir says, The kind of films I do need actors of a certain age group. I always bank on actors who believe in me and my work. I was an outsider and was struggling to make my own tiny space here then why not give space to others since we are a country full of talent. Not only actors, I have worked with new music directors too, be it Mithoon or Pritam. With 'Chauranga', I became a producer that was helmed by a debutant director. In 'Shab', I launched Ashish Bisht and Shrey. With Kuchh Bheege Alfaaz, I launched Zain as an actor, first time writer Abhishek Chaterjee and DOP Nusrat. I am very happy that in a small way I could be the part of their journeys in Bollywood.

With tonnes of debutants popping every Friday, it wasnt a cakewalk for poet turned actor Zain Khan Durrani who hails from Kashmir. Interestingly, he never thought of becoming an actor but surprisingly he landed up being the lead of an utterly delicious romantic film Kuchh Bheege Alfaaz directed by Onir. When asked about what kind of an actor he is, Zain says, I think every actor has a certain genre that they are best at, like Tom Cruise is a dramatic actor. When Amitabh Bachchan started his career, his roles werent like of a angry young man and later he worked with his niche and it kept constantly evolving. I never really thought of a particular genre as such. It was always about the right of kind of content. It is probably the serendipity that is happening as I have been always interested in romance and love has been a part of my poetry. It is the best platform to be featuring in a movie like Kuchh Bheege Alfaaz.

When asked about breaking the jinx of good looking actors doing substantial work on screen, Zain says, I will always owe to this gentleman Onir. He is really instrumental in my life. I was supposed to go for UPSC and study but he spotted me and told me that I have to go through a process. I was auditioned for Shab but I looked much mature for that character and it went to Ashish Bisht. I had to undergo a lot of workshops with him. I applied in FTC and gave my auditions for this film. Later, he told me that I liked you for the role of Alfaaz.

On being such an unconventional actress, National Award winner, Geetanjali Thapa has some really interesting beans to spill. She says, I am not trying to be unconventional. I do things that make me happy. I will work with the directors I want to work even if its a small role like in 'Trapped'. I love Vikramaditya Motwanes work. I read the script and I said yes to the film. I thought its going to be fun especially to work with Rajkummar Rao. Its rare to come across such a role like the way I got to play in Onirs film. I want to go back home exhausted but happy. It is very important for an actor to be happy and content.

Talking about her character Archie (Archana) in the film, Geetanjali says, A lot of people say that it is such a fun film but it isnt the case. It was so difficult to portray Archie since it has so many layers to it. There is pain in love in fact it is in everything, the pain of getting rejected for a role for example. The fact is that it is difficult to come in terms with your insecurities. To understand Archie, I had to look within myself. I knew Archie much better by the end of the film. I didnt like Archie as much as I did towards the end of the shoot. If a person like you comes and tell me that my character touched in minor or major way, thats a fulfilling validation.The engine of the train got disconnected from the bogies due to the impact of the collision, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.

The railways authority said that the engine of the train got derailed due to the impact but no passenger was injured. (Photo: PTI/Representational)

Guwahati: Four wild elephants were killed and another injured when a Guwahati-Silchar passenger train rammed over a herd crossing the rail tracks in central Assams Hojai district on Saturday night. The wildlife activists said that accident took place at about 9.30 pm near Habaipur an area, which has been identified as an elephant corridor.

The engine of the train got disconnected from the bogies due to the impact of the collision, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded. Four elephants died on the spot while one injured pachyderm is battling for life.

The railways authority said that the engine of the train got derailed due to the impact but no passenger was injured. A special train has been sent from Lumding, to help the stranded passengers, an official of Northeast Frontier Railway said.

Meanwhile, local residents of the area alleged that they even waved and tried to stop the train driver but he could not take note of their signal.

Elephant deaths, due to accidents, are on the rise in Assam. According to records available with the state forest department, at least 110 elephants died in 2016 and 118 in 2015. Apart from train accidents, there have been deaths of a large number of wild elephants due to poisoning and electrocution also.

Though, state forest department has developed a mechanism to monitor the movement of elephant herds besides setting up an anti-depredation squads to protect the elephants from such disaster, it is yet to work effectively.

To minimise such casualty, the Northeast Frontier Railway has also started experimenting by placing a device near railway tracks, which amplifies buzz of bees, hoping that elephants, which are scared of the stinging insects, will stay away from the tracks when they hear the sound.

According to 2011 census, there are 5,620 wild elephants in Assam, the highest in the country. The Asian elephants of Assam have also been declared as 'endangered' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.The Jat outfit had planned to take out their own rally in Jind on February 15 with 50,000 tractor-trolleys to disrupt Shah's bike rally.

Khattar had invited Malik to hold talks with the Jats, who had threatened to disrupt the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief's proposed rally. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said the state government has decided to withdraw all cases registered in connection with the violence, which broke out during a Jat quota agitation in February 2016.

The decision was announced on Sunday after Chief Minister Khattar, Union Minister Birender Singh, senior BJP leader Anil Jain, held a five-hour-long meeting with a jat delegation, led by All-India Jat Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti president Yashpal Malik in the national capital.

"Cases lodged during reservation stir will be withdrawn. Regarding High Court decision on reservation to Jats and five other communities, we'll provide all figures to State Backward Classes Commission before March 31, so that final decision can be taken," Khattar told reporters in New Delhi.

Khattar had invited Malik to hold talks with the Jats, who had threatened to disrupt the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief's proposed rally.

Earlier in the week, the Jat delegation had threatened to disrupt BJP chief Amit Shah's rally alleging non-fulfilment of their demands, after which Haryana had sought 150 companies of central forces as a preventive measure.

The Jat outfit had planned to take out their own rally in Jind on February 15 with 50,000 tractor-trolleys to disrupt Shah's bike rally.

The Haryana government had recently given its nod to the withdrawal of 70 FIRs registered in connection with the Jat quota stir violence.Rahul said RSS chief's remark was an insult to Indians, because it disrespects those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday lashed out at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat over his disrespectful statement against the Indian Army. (Photo: AP)

New Delhi: Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday lashed out at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat over his disrespectful statement against the Indian Army.

In a scathing attack on twitter, Rahul said RSS chief's remark was an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have sacrificed their lives for the nation.

Using hashtag "#ApologizeRSS", the Congress president said the speech was an insult to the Indian flag, soldiers.

Rahul said, "Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army."

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation.



It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it.



Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani and patidar activist Hardik Patel too joined Rahul in attacking Bhagwat.

"RSS is an army of underwear clad men who spark riots in country. I urge Bhagwat to go sell pakodas across country so that Modi can give government jobs to youth of our country," Mevani tweeted.

Addressing RSS workers in Muzaffarpur, Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the organisation has the ability to prepare an Army to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises.

Also read: RSS can create army to fight for India in 3 days, if need arises: Mohan Bhagwat

Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so, Bhagwat said.

Sangh is neither a military nor a para military organisation, rather it is like a parivarik sangathan (family organisation) where discipline is practised like the Army, he said adding that workers are always happily ready to make supreme sacrifices for their country.

Bhagwat exhorted the RSS workers to set an example of good conduct in their personal, family and social lives.At present, about 300 militants are operating in the state, of which about 180 are locals and 120 are of foreign origin.

New Delhi: With a more than 48 per cent spurt in recruitment of Kashmiri militants from 2015 to 2017 and the age profile of those joining the militant ranks getting younger, it is the young who are being gunned down at a faster rate as they are being thrust into operations with rudimentary training.

According to military sources, while the age profile of Kashmiri militants ranged 20-21 years till a few years back, it has come down to about 17-20 years now. In 2015, the number of recruitments made stood at 66, which grew to 88 in 2016 and further spiked to 128 in 2017.

Of the total 128 recruitments this year, about 30 per cent are 15-19 years old, 50 per cent are in the 20-25 years age group and 10 per cent in the 25-30 years category. The rest 10 per cent belong to the more than 30 years group. Another interesting feature is that an overwhelming majority are Class 10 and 12 pass-outs.

Recruitment has picked up. It peaks just after November when the Class 10 and Class 12 results are declared and many of those who do not do well in the exams take to the gun. These young boys are trained locally in handling weapons, unlike the ones who used to be trained in terrorist training camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir or in Pakistan. With their training being rudimentary, they are the first ones who fall to the bullet in encounters with the security forces, a top source in the military establishment told this newspaper.

The young militants are not even allowed to fire during their short training stint as a result of which they lack good fighting skills. As soon as they join up, they are given a AK-47 rifle by their handlers which is one of the easiest rifles to operate and then ordered to organise attacks.

As a result, the shelf life of militants has come down drastically, the source added. In the past, the shelf life of a militant in Kashmir was usually between 6-8 months which has further gone down now.

Last month, Army Chief Gen. Bipin Rawat took on the education system in state government schools and madrasas (Islamic seminaries) in the state which he said were instrumental in spreading misinformation. During the customary annual press conference, he had said: The education system in J&K government schools is corrupted because the teachers who teach in these schools have also come up in the same way... The kind of education in these schools is wrong.

At present, about 300 militants are operating in the state, of which about 180 are locals and 120 are of foreign origin.

In 2016, 141 militants were shot dead, while 27 were either apprehended or surrendered. In 2017, 213 were killed while 34 were apprehended or surrendered. Till Sunday, the number of militants killed stood at 11 this year, while there were six apprehensions and surrenders.The authorities said that one more militant has been killed, in addition to the three JeM attackers who were gunned down on Saturday.

Srinagar: Three more Army personnel and a civilian were killed as the standoff between Jaish-e-Muhammad militants and security forces at an Army base in Jammu continued for the second day on Sunday, taking the total toll till now to 10, including five Armymen, one civilian and four terrorists. The authorities said that one more militant has been killed, in addition to the three JeM attackers who were gunned down on Saturday.

The operation to flush out terrorists is on and the evacuation (of people from the family quarters within the base) is in progress, said Jammu-based deference spokesperson Lt. Col. Devender Anand.

There was no firing since last night, he added. Five Army men, including two junior commissioned officers (JCOs), and the father of a soldier have been killed in the attack by the terrorists who struck at the sprawling Sunjwan camp of the 36 Brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) shortly before dawn on Saturday, an Army spokesperson said.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, who had reached Jammu on early Sunday, reviewed the situation and held a meeting with senior Army officials. A team of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) also reached Jammu to begin their probe into the terror attack.

After the attack, troops from the Armys special forces, members of the J&K polices counterinsurgency Special Operations Group (SOG) and those of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) had rushed to the spot and cordoned off the whole area amid a fierce gunfight. They were later joined by the IAF Para commandos airlifted to Jammu from the garrison town of Udhampur and Sarsawa in Haryana.

The officials said that three more Army personnel killed in militant firing and grenade attacks are Havaldar Habibullah Qureshi, Naik Manzoor Ahmed and Lance Naik Muhammad Iqbal, whose father also died. Two other Armymen killed in the initial militant attack are JCO Subedar Madan Lal Chaudhary of 4 JAKLI and Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Muhammad Ashraf Mir of 1 JAKLI.

The injured are Major Avijit Singh of 6 Mahar (head injury), Lance Naik Bahadur Singh of 1 JAKLI (multiple injuries), Havaldar Abdul Hamid Rashid of 1 JAKLI (head injury) and family members of the soldiers Paramjeet Kaur (40), Neha (20) who is the daughter of the slain JCO, and Somati Jena (head injury).A report said that a youth was injured after Army personnel opened fire on protesters after they came under stone pelting in Barthipora village.

A supporter of All-Parties Hurriyat Conference is detained by the police during a protest on the death anniversary of separatist leader Maqbool Bhat in Srinagar. (Photo: AP)

Srinagar: Kashmir Valley was shut again on Sunday, this time to commemorate the death anniversary of Muhammad Maqbool Butt, co-founder of pro-independence Jammu Kashmir National Liberation Front (JKNLF).

Butt was hanged in Tihar jail on February 11, 1984, more than 16 years after a court in Srinagar had sentenced him to death on charges of murdering an Indian intelligence official Amar Chand way back in 1966.

While the shutdown cal-led by Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL), an alliance of key separatist leaders, brought life to a standstill in most parts of the Valley, the J&K police and CRPF enforced a security clampdown in central Srinagar areas to hold back protests. Shut-down was also observed in the highway town of Banihal.

The security forces also foiled a march by JKLF activists on the summer headquarters of the United Nations Military Observers Group in India and Pakistan, where they had planned to submit a memorandum demanding return of Butts mortal remains. Butt was buried within the jail premises after the hanging.

A report from southern Shopian said that a youth was injured after Army personnel opened fire on protesters after they came under stone pelting in Barthipora village of the district. The injured youth has been identified as Aadil Ahmed Wagay, a resident of Shopians Nadpora village. He received a bullet wound in his right leg and his condition is stable, police sources said.

Earlier, thousands of people attended the funeral of teenage girl Saima Wani, who died in a Srinagar hospital on Saturday night. She had been injured during a gunfight between militants and security forces in Shopians Chaigund village on January 24.Ramesh Saxena claimed that if Hanuman Chalisa is recited in every village for one hour then natural disaster can be dealt with.

Saxena is the former MLA from Sehore. (Photo: ANI)

Sehore (Madhya Pradesh): A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader on Monday asked farmers to recite Hanuman Chaalisa to tackle natural disaster.

Unseasonal rains and hailstorms have damaged crops in Madhya Pradesh's Sehore over the last few days.

BJP leader Ramesh Saxena requested farmers to daily chant Hanuman Chalisa for one hour for saving themselves from wrath of natural disaster.

"Scientists have predicted that natural disaster will be continued for next 4-5 days wherein hailstorm and rains are expected. Only one way to tackle this is to chant Hanuman Chalisa," Saxena said.

He claimed that if Hanuman Chalisa is recited in every village for one hour then natural disaster can be dealt with.

"This is my claim that if people would recite Hanuman Chalisa for one hour in every village then this natural disaster can be dealt with. I am requesting the youth to chant Hanuman Chalisa for one hour everyday, for the next five days," the BJP leader asserted.

Saxena is the former MLA from Sehore.Major Aditya Kumar's father had last week challenged murder FIR against his son in the Shopian killings last month.

The Supreme Court on Monday has put on hold any coercive action against the Army officer accused in the killing of civilians in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian in January, 2018. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court, on Monday, said that no action can be taken for now against the Army Major Aditya Kumar accused in the killing of three civilians in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian in January, 2018.

There will be "no coercive action" against Major Aditya Kumar, said the apex court, asking for a response within two weeks from the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government to a petition by the officer's father.

Lieutenant Colonel Karamveer Singh had asked the court to cancel the FIR against his son, Major Aditya Kumar, calling it "bad in law". He also pointed out that Major Aditya Kumar was not even present at the spot during the firing.

Also read: Father of Army officer accused of Shopian firing moves SC for quashing of FIR

Major Aditya Kumar was named in the FIR (First Information Report) filed by the Jammu and Kashmir Police after three were killed in firing at protesters in Shopian on January 27.

The Army had said that its soldiers opened fire in a desperate situation, trapped by over 200 stone-throwing protesters.

"The Supreme Court has issued notice to the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government. We have been asked to serve a copy of the petition to office of Attorney General of India (AGI) and the Court has requested AGI to clarify the stand of Centre in two weeks. Jammu and Kashmir government also has to clarify its stand in two weeks," said advocate Aishwarya Bhati.

Advocate Bhatia said, "On our prayer the Court has directed that no coercive action will be taken against Major Aditya Kumar in pursuance of the FIR lodged against him. It is a positive encouraging day."

Lt Col Singh, a Kargil war veteran, said an FIR against serving Army personnel had a "numbing effect" on the morale of soldiers operating against all odds in "inhospitable terrain" to "uphold the dignity of the Indian flag.Asaduddin Owaisi also called for social boycott of those calling for giving up Babri Masjid.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi also criticised the central government on Triple Talaq Bill and termed it an attack on sharia. (Photo: PTI)

Hyderabad: In a veiled reference to Maulana Syed Salman Hussain Nadvi, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday alleged that few people are working on the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create a rift in All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).

"Some people are dancing to the tune of Modi," said Owaisi without naming Nadvi, who was removed from the Muslim law body on Sunday for his proposal to handover the land of demolished Babri Masjid in Ayodhya for construction of Ram temple.

Also read: AIMPLB expels member for masjid shifting remark; says it cant be done

Hyderabad MP further called for social boycott of those calling for giving up Babri Masjid.

"He (Nadvi) is saying that his proposal is to ensure peace and unity in the country. Should we also give up Masjid-e-Aqsa (Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem) for unity in Arab?" asked Owaisi.

Addressing a public meeting organised by the board at the end of its three-day plenary, Owaisi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government for interfering in Muslim personal law and reiterated that AIMPLB will not compromise on the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid land dispute and will fight it in Supreme Court.

"We believe in the constitution and we have faith in the Hon'ble Supreme Court regarding the Babri Masjid issue," the lawmaker added.

Owaisi further said that Nadvi was one of the clerics who signed a 'fatwa' in 2001 that a mosque remains a mosque for eternity and hence Muslims can't give up Babri Masjid.

He also alleged that Nadvi had also given a fatwa in support of terror group ISIS, which is responsible for massacre of Muslims in Syria, Iraq and other countries.

"Modi, you are giving political patronage to those who had given fatwa in favour of IS," said AIMIM chief.

Owaisi also criticised the central government on Triple Talaq Bill and termed it an attack on sharia.The militants have taken shelter in a house which has been cordoned off by the CRPF.

Intermittent exchange of fire was reported and the CRPF moved in more troops to ensure that the militants do not escape. (Photo: ANI/Twitter)

Srinagar: One jawan was killed in a gunbattlein Srinagar's Karan Nagar area after the Army foiled a militant attack on a CRPF camp early on Monday, an official said.

"The sentry at the camp noticed two suspicious persons at around 4.30 am, carrying backpacks and weapons. He challenged them and opened fire as well," a spokesman of the CRPF said.

The militants fled from the spot, the spokesman said.

The militants have taken shelter in a house which has been cordoned off by the CRPF.

Intermittent exchange of fire was reported and the CRPF moved in more troops to ensure that the militants do not escape.

The incident comes two days after Jaish-e-Mohammad militants attacked an Army camp in Sunjwan area of Jammu, killing six people including five soldiers.The BJP is contesting 51 out of the 60 Assembly seats, while its ally, Indigenous Peoples Front of Tripura (IPFT), is fighting on nine seats.

Mohanpur (Tripura): BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday accused the Left cadres of pocketing public funds meant for development and asked people to oust Tripuras Lal bhai government.

Mr Shah, who led an eight-kilometre road show and addressed rallies, he sought votes for the states transformation. He promised to make Tripura a model state if his party is voted to power.

The BJP is contesting 51 out of the 60 Assembly seats, while its ally, Indigenous Peoples Front of Tripura (IPFT), is fighting on nine seats. Polling is scheduled to be held next Sunday, and counting is due on March 3.

The BJP is being seen as putting up a strong challenge to the 25-year-old uninterrupted Left reign in the state with a host of promises to the people, including smart phones for youths, implementation of the seventh pay commission for government employees from the next day of the party being voted to power and action against chit fund scam accused.

Without naming Rahul Gandhi, Mr Shah alleged that the Congress chief had put up candidates as vote-katva (cutting into others votes) to help the CPI(M) government headed by chief minister Manik Sarkar to come back to power.

The Congress was the main Opposition party until the last Assembly polls but has seen a serious depletion in its ranks with many of its leaders, including MLAs, joining the BJP.

The government of Lal bhai and its cadres have looted Tripura for 25 years in the name of development... A BJP government is bound to come. It wont be merely a change of MLAs or government but will usher in its transformation, Mr Shah said at a rally.

The Left government, he said, was made in the name of the poor but poverty increased in its 25 years of rule and the number of unemployed youths rose to 7.33 lakh from 25,000 during the period.

A BJP government will give employment to every household, Mr Shah said.

Taking on Mr Sarkar for his charge that that the Centre had not done much for the states development, the BJP chief reeled out the names of a number of central schemes and noted that it had released Rs 25,396 crore to Tripura under the 14th finance commission against Rs 7,283 crore it had got under the 13th finance commission.

Raising the partys slogan, Chalo Paltai (Lets change the government), Mr Shah said, Where has all this extra RS 18,000 crore gone? It has gone into pockets of Communist cadres. I dare Sarkar to give an account of this money in his public meeting.

He also accused the Left parties of spreading rumours that the state would be divided if the BJP comes to power and asserted that there would no division and Tripura would remain as it is.

IPFT, which represents sections of tribals, had earlier raised the demand of a separate state but has not pushed for it following its alliance with the BJP, which is opposed to any division of Tripura.

Mr Shah said a BJP government would protect and promote the cultural heritage and values of tribals.

Touching on cultural issues, Mr Shah said the Left government celebrates birth anniversaries of Lenin and Stalin but not of Vivekananda, Tagore and a revered king of the state. The Left has been finished off in the world and the Congress is fading away in the country, he claimed.

At another rally in Chawmanu, Mr Shah accused the Left government of practising politics of violence and said a BJP government will end this and usher an era of development. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ushered in an era of development and the state should invest in his leadership, he said.The entreaty came in the backdrop of constant cross-border firing and shelling incidents in which many people have been killed.

'Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option,' tweeted Mehbooba Mufti.

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister on Monday once again advocated resumption of peace dialogue with Pakistan which, she said, was vital in order to seek an end to the suffering of the people of the State.

The entreaty came in the backdrop of constant cross-border firing and shelling incidents in which scores of people, mostly civilians, have been killed and wounded in past three weeks and militant attacks at security forces camps in twin capitals of Jammu and Srinagar.

Also read: Army camp attack: 5 soldiers, 4 terrorists dead; NIA takes stock

She tweeted, Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option.

Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option.  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) February 12, 2018

Meanwhile, Lashkar-e-Taiba has claimed the responsibility for Karan Nagar CRPF camp terror attack.

Also read: Srinagar: 1 jawan dead in gunbattle after CRPF foils militant strike

However, its chief in Jammu and Kashmir Mehmood Shah has, in a statement issued to media, also paid "tributes" to militants killed in the Army' retaliatory action in Jammu.Bhagwat had allegedly said that the army takes around six to seven months to prepare for a war, but the RSS cadre could do it in three days.

Mumbai: Opposition parties in Maharashtra demanded an apology from Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat over his alleged remarks on the Indian army. Mr Bhagwat had allegedly said that the army takes around six to seven months to prepare for a war, but the RSS cadre could do it in three days.

Preparing an army takes six to seven months but we (RSS cadres) will be battle ready in two-three days...this is our capability and discipline that marks us apart, said Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat at a meeting of the organisation in Muzaffarpur on Sunday.

The Opposition has slammed the remark, demanding Mr Bhagwats apology. Earlier Nitin Gadkari and now Dr Bhagwat has insulted the Indian army. Our soldiers do not need certificates from Dr Bhagwat about their preparedness. Dr Bhagwat should begin immediately apologise to the army and the nation, said Maharashtra Congress chief Ashok Chavan.

NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said, Who is Dr Bhagwat to comment on the preparedness of army? If Dr Bhagwat believes that his cadre is capable of war, then he should ask them to join the army.The NDA government has 'failed' on all fronts and is not allowing opposition parties to demonstrate against its 'anti-aam aadmi' policies.

Singh levelled the allegations on Sunday at an event in Delhi by his partys Maharashtra unit to felicitate him on his election to the Rajya Sabha. (Photo: Twitter | AAP)

New Delhi: AAP leader and MP Sanjay Singh has accused the Narendra Modi government of crushing the voice of democracy and not letting opposition parties protest against its anti-people policies.

Singh levelled the allegations on Sunday at an event in Delhi by his partys Maharashtra unit to felicitate him on his election to the Rajya Sabha.

The NDA government has failed on all fronts and it is not allowing opposition parties to demonstrate against its anti-aam aadmi policies, he alleged.

Speaking at the event in suburban Govandi, the AAP leader lashed out at the BJP-led ruling coalition at the Centre and accused it of misusing government agencies. The BJP-led government is hellbent on crushing the voice of democracy and is not even letting us raise our concerns by holding the sale of pakodas (to take a dig at Modis remarks over job creation), he was quoted as saying by PTI.

This government is using all its machinery and agencies to stop our fight against bad governance. Ever since the AAP government came to power in New Delhi, our 15 MLAs have been booked and sent behind bars. The CBI even raided the offices of the chief minister and the education and health ministers, Singh said.

The 45-year-old Rajya Sabha MP said that his party believes in development, while those running this (BJP-led) government are engaging in divisive politics.

They believe in divide and rule while we believe in holistic development of all the sections of the society, he said.

In an apparent dig at the RSS, Singh alleged that those who had never unfurled the national flag at their headquarters are now distributing the certificate of patriotism. He said some parties in the country were practising dynastic politics.The list of 15 wealthiest cities was topped by New York with a total wealth of USD 3 trillion.

Mumbai, also features among the top 10 cities in terms of billionaire population.

New Delhi: Indias financial capital Mumbai, with a total wealth of USD 950 billion, has been named among the top 15 wealthiest cities globally, while New York topped the list, says a report.

According to a report by New World Wealth, the economic hub of India is the 12th wealthiest city, followed by Toronto with a total wealth of USD 944 billion, Frankfurt (14th, USD 912 billion) and Paris (15th, USD 860 billion).

Total wealth, refers to the private wealth held by all the individuals living in each city. It includes all their assets (property, cash, equities, business interests) less any liabilities. Government funds are excluded from the figures.

Mumbai, also features among the top 10 cities in terms of billionaire population. The city is home to 28 billionaires, individuals with USD 1 billion or more in net assets.

Regarding Mumbai, the report said, total wealth held in the city amounts to USD 950 billion. Mumbai is the economic hub of India.

It is also home to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the 12th largest stock exchange in the world. Major industries in the city include financial services, real estate and media.

Going forward, Mumbai is expected to be the fastest growing city (in terms of wealth growth over the next 10 years), it added. The list of 15 wealthiest cities was topped by New York with a total wealth of USD 3 trillion.

Home to the two largest stock exchanges in the world. Areas around New York such as Connecticut and Long Island also contain a large amount of wealth that is not included in this figure, the report said.

London ranked second in the list with USD 2.7 trillion, followed by Tokyo (USD 2.5 trillion), and San Francisco Bay area (USD 2.3 trillion).

Others in the list include Beijing (USD 2.2 trillion), Shanghai (USD 2 trillion), Los Angeles (USD 1.4 trillion), Hong Kong (USD 1.3 trillion), Sydney (USD 1 trillion), Singapore (USD 1 trillion) and Chicago (USD 988 billion).

Among the 15 cities listed, San Francisco, Beijing, Shanghai, Mumbai and Sydney were the fastest growing in terms of wealth growth over the past 10 years, the report said.

Notable cities that just missed out on top 15 include: Houston, Geneva, Osaka, Seoul, Shenzhen, Melbourne, Zurich and Dallas, it added.Faizabad was about the abstract, in Mardan there are flesh and blood heroes to be venerated and a dead boy to condemn.

The report said some faculty members investigating the killing pressured students to support the blasphemy allegations because of Khan's past criticism of the university.

There were several contenders, but the worst of 2017 came down to a choice between two: Faizabad and the lynching.

A shot to the face and a stab in the heart, Faizabad and the lynching were different paths to the ugliest of same futures. And yet the lynching felt worse.

Faizabad  Faizabad could be explained as part of the same. Clownish government, an engineered crisis, political opportunism, machinations by the boys, a crazed mullah with a mob to mobilise.

Depressing, shocking and all of that, yes. But, really, just another political government finding itself under pressure from just another combination of the far right and the boys for just another bunch of stupid, self- and society-defeating reasons.

If the Barelvi angle was new-ish in Faizabad, you almost had to wonder what took them so long. And almost immediately after you were reminded why.

Putting that lot together is like holding a sackful of cats; everyones going to get scratched.

In the end, Faizabad was public confirmation of a truth long suspected. That the political future of the country lies somewhere where it has in the past, on the spectrum of the right.

Just how far to the right will depend on circumstance and the ability of the centre right to resist. But if the specifics are unknown, the contours can already be discerned. The lynching was different.

Not because it was a lynching  weve had them before and will have them again. Not because it was a university  you dont have to wander in a university campus to figure out that danger lurks.

It was a young man deliberately killed by other young men after being deliberately instigated by yet more young men. There was pride in their work; it was as if they were performing for the cameras.

By killing the brightest in their midst, the killers were telling all of us what kind of future they want for this place.

There was no need to wait around for weaselly politicians and a conniving state to offer what the mob could snatch for itself. If the mob led, the rest would follow.

Between the wretchedness in Faizabad and the awfulness in Mardan, a similar dismal future awaits. But each has different implications for how fast we get there and what fresh horrors may be unleashed on the way.

The Faizabad lot were in a way weak in comparison. All the silliness of nightly speeches and tying up traffic and making demands and engaging in back-and-forths with the government.

Needing and wanting the intervention of the boys. Signing documents and slinking off with envelopes stuffed with cash. Acting like a victory had been won in an intolerable system.

You get the feeling had the roles been reversed, very different outcomes may have occurred.

They wouldnt pull back from Parliament like the PTI and Co. did all those years ago. They would have burned the building to the ground and tossed a minister or two in the flames.

You dont need the law of man when you have the divine on your side. One-page surrender documents and deals are for wusses.

And were the Faizabad lot transplanted to Mardan, you can guess a slightly different outcome there too. The boy would be in jail and his tormentors gloating about the great victory they would have won.

But maybe years later, after the rage du jour is located elsewhere, a court of law would have quietly declared him innocent and allowed him to slip away into asylum.

Were in a dark and terrible place when were left to parse whether Faizabad or Mardan was worse. But one was worse and were now seeing how.

Theological divisions have kept apart who can join which of the two shows. The Faizabad lot and the Mardan mob can never unite all parts of the spectrum on the right.

But as the days and weeks have flowed, the Faizabad lot have seen a drop off in relevance and support. It may flare up again and be encouraged to do so, but the heady days of last November are already gone.

The answer to the question whether a grand unified front can be fashioned out of Faizabad has already been answered. It cant. Not in a durable sense, anyway. But Mardan still has the power to draw. The victim has been memorialised and celebrated on the left  always useful for the far right to organise against.

The trials will lead to appeals  allowing the minting of fresh martyrs and periodic denunciations of an infidel state and its society. The dozens who have been freed are conquering heroes who can be trotted around.

Faizabad was about the abstract, in Mardan there are flesh and blood heroes to be venerated and a dead boy to condemn. The lynching was the worst of 2017. Twenty eighteen is reminding us why.

By arrangement with DawnThe 12-year-old Chinese kid lost his right eye and right index finger when the phone blasted while charging.

Meng Jisu from Guangxi province was charging the phone at home and when he leaned over the charger to reach for his phone, it exploded, blowing off his index finger immediately and left him unconscious.

A 12-year-old boy reportedly lost his right eye and his right index finger in a freak accident involving his phone, last week in China. According to a report by Softpedia, the boy was using his phone while it was charging. The report states information from Chinese media which claims that the phone was a dumb phone and not an actual smartphone. It was a two-year-old dumb phone named Hua Tang VT-V59, made in China.

Meng Jisu from Guangxi province was charging the phone at home and when he leaned over the charger to reach for his phone, it exploded, blowing off his index finger immediately and left him unconscious. Later his sister found him on the floor and rushed him to the hospital. Doctors at the emergency unit removed shrapnel from his face and chest in a 5-hour surgery. Some sharp plastic shrapnel were also removed from his right eye and he was left partially blinded. Unfortunately, the finger could not be reattached back to his hand as it was not carried along to the hospital. Doctors also mentioned that the finger would not be able to be attached anyways due to several injuries.

The phone manufacturing company has not yet given any statement as yet.

Photos creditXiaomi could be readying itself to launch the modular Mi TV 4 in India on 14th of February.

In what comes as surprising news, Xiaomi could probably be launching their first Television for the Indian market. The company has released a teaser on its social media channels that suggests a TV with ultra-thin frames. The company will launch the TV on 14th February.

The teaser shows a big glossy display with a neon blue frame, which is a feature of the Mi TV 4. The Mi TV 4 is already available in China and boasts of an ultra-thin narrow-bezel frame. It is equipped with Dolby Atmos 3D surround sound. The Mi TV is a modular television, which means that motherboard and the speakers are housed in a separate unit while the display is a separate unit, which helps Xiaomi achieve an ultra-thin profile. The Mi TV 4 is expected to be available in India in the 65-inch frame size. Expect Xiaomi to price the Mi TV 4 competitively.

Mi fans! Is it a bird? Is it a plane? #WhatIsThat

Something wonderful is about to happen this Valentine's Day. Stay tuned!

Register now for the live stream - https://t.co/l4bdUpyerC pic.twitter.com/99ODzuVHML  Mi India (@XiaomiIndia) February 12, 2018

Apart from the TV, the company is also expected to launch a new Redmi smartphone. Rumours have been indicating at the company readying to launch the Redmi Note 5 for the Indian market, which is expected to be a repackaged Redmi 5 Plus. Xiaomi is also rumoured to launch a more powerful PRO version of the Redmi device at the event. All the Xiaomi products will be unveiled on 14th February. Stay tuned for all the latest news on Xiaomi products.

(source)The most anticipated devices will come from industry giants such as Samsung, Huawei Sony, and Xiaomi.

Mobile World Congress (MWC), the biggest mobile technology fair on the planet is upon us. Come February 26, over 2,300 exhibitors from across the globe will gather in Barcelona flaunt new hardware, ideas, and innovations. A truckload of devices will be showcased at the event. However, the most anticipated devices will come from industry giants such as Samsung, Huawei Sony, and Xiaomi. While nobody can predict the line-up accurately, here's what we are likely to see at the MWC 2018 based on the recent leaks and speculation:

Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+

First up is Samsung, the leader in smartphone space. The South Korean giant has already confirmed that it will be uncovering the Galaxy S9 and S9+ in Barcelona. The company will announce the duo a day prior to the official start of the MWC 2018. Based on the images shared by @evleaks, the S9 line-up will retain its core design. You will get a metal frame sandwiched between the glass. Samsung will minimise the bezels further though. The company will also move the fingerprint sensor from the right-hand side to the centre.

The Galaxy S9 is expected to feature a 5.8-inch AMOLED screen. As suggested by its name, the Galaxy S9+ will come with a bigger 6.2-inch AMOLED display. Rumour has it that the S9+ will come with a dual camera setup. The regular S9, whoever, will have to settle for a single camera at the rear. Both the phones will probably be powered by Samsung's own Exynos 9810 chipset in Asia. For the US, Samsung will use Qualcomm's Snapdragon 845 SoC (System on Chip).

Sony

Once known for its interesting phones, Sony has lost touch with the mobile market. For years, it refused to update the done-to-death "omnibalance" design with thick bezels. Despite losing millions, the Japanese company is adamantly ignoring the bezel-less trend in the smartphone space. As a result, I don't know a single person who bought a Sony phone in recent times.

Sony may want to make itself relevant again with its next flagship phone expected at MWC 2018. Rumoured to be named the Xperia XZ Pro, the phone will get rid of some of the bezels. I'm not sure if Sony will make a radical design yet or even embrace the tall screen 16:9 aspect ratio. As per the latest leak, the Xperia XZ Pro will feature a 5.7-inch OLED screen. It will boast of 4k resolution. For years, Sony phones had used terrible LCD screens, but it seems it will finally make a move to OLED.

In terms of firepower, you can expect the Snapdragon 845 chipset and 6GB of RAM. Sony will update the camera to a dual sensor assembly. And like every recent flagship from Sony, this phone will be water and dust resistant.

Xiaomi

There has been plenty of rumours regarding Xiaomi unveiling its next flagship Mi 7 at the MWC 2018. However, recently a Xiaomi India spokesperson told The Indian Express that, We are not organising any press events during MWC but will have a booth at Hall 6 Stand 6B30. We will be showcasing a selection of smartphones and ecosystem products.

From the sound of it, you are unlikely to see the Mi 7 at the MWC. The company may unveil its Mi Mix 2s ahead of the MWC 2018 though. The successor of Xiaomi's best-looking device so far, will continue the schematic genius of French industrial designer Philippe Starck. As per the leaked image posted on SlashLeaks, the bezels will incredibly thin. The front camera will be housed in a tiny notch at the top right corner. To power this thing, Xiaomi will like to opt for the Snapdragon 845 chip from Qualcomm.

Nokia 9 and 7 Plus

HMD Global, the Finland based company with rights to sell Nokia branded phones has received good customer response so far. The company's Chief Product Officer, Juho Sarvikas, has already promised an "awesome" MWC. That has led to high hopes for the fans of the iconic phone company.

The star from the Scandinavia is going to be the Nokia 9. But, it won't target the top-end phones from Apple or Samsung. It will take on the OnePlus instead. The Nokia 9 might come with a 5.5-inch Quad HD OLED display. In the best-case scenario, the phone might have curved edges on the sides much like the S8. The company will continue with the dual camera setup at the back. Most rumours suggest that the Nokia 9 will be powered by the Snapdragon 835. Now thats underwhelming considering that the other brands are going with the latest Snapdragon 845 SoC (System on Chip).

In addition to the flagship Nokia 9, HMD may also introduce the Nokia 7 Plus. This handset is rumoured to be Nokia's first phone featuring a tall display with 16:9 aspect ratio. As per the promotional content leaked on Baidu, the Nokia 7 will be powered by Snapdragon 660 chip. It will offer 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage. This mid-ranger will also boast of a dual camera assembly at the back. It is also expected to come with something called 'Tetracell technology' for better low light performance.

Motorola (Lenovo)

Chinese company Lenovo, which now owns Motorola Mobility, has confirmed its prescience at this year's MWC. Recently, over half a dozen of its phones from the Moto G, Z, and X series. As per most speculations though, the brand is likely to keep the X and Z series phone for later. For now, you expect Lenovo to announce the Moto G6, Moto G6 Plus, and Moto G6 Play.

As reported by Droid-Life, the Moto G6 will feature the boring Motorola design with a circular camera bump at the back. It is likely to feature a 5.7-inch FullHD+ display with 18:9 aspect ratio. It will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 chipset. Expect it to be fitted with a 12MP dual camera setup. For the narcissist kids, it will feature a 16MP selfie snapper.

The Moto G6 Plus will feature a bigger 5.93-inch Full HD+ display with 18:9 aspect ratio. At the heart will be a Snapdragon 630 chip. For the camera buffs, the Moto G6 Plus will offer a dual camera setup. Much like its sibling, there will be a 16MP front camera for selfies.

The Moto G6 Play will feature a 5.7-inch HD screen. It won't hop on to the 16:9 aspect ratio trend. But, it will flaunt a premium metal frame and a glass back. The phone will be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 430. So, don't expect to play latest games on the Moto G6 Play. The phone will also opt for a simple 12MP main camera.

Huawei

With its grand smartphone event in Paris scheduled on March 27, Huawei is unlikely to showcase any device at the MWC 2018. The company, however, will be present at the MWC, but will only showcase a new laptop under MateBook series, a bunch of tablets, and perhaps a smartwatch.

(source)In 2007, she was arrested by the government of then-military ruler Pervez Musharraf.

Islamabad: Asma Jehangir, one of Pakistans most prominent right activists and lawyers, died on Sunday of a heart attack in Lahore at the age of 66.

Jehangir suffered a heart attack late on Saturday night and was rushed to hospital where she died early on Sunday, her daughter Muneeze said.

A pro-democracy activist, she championed womens and minorities rights throughout her career and was also an outspoken critic of the powerful military establishment, including during her stint as the first-ever female leader of Pakistans top bar association.

In 2007, she was arrested by the government of then-military ruler Pervez Musharraf. In 2012 she claimed her life was in danger from ISI.

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi expressed grief at Asma Jahangirs death, praising her contribution to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding human rights.Hassan Rouhani was invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2017.

Mr Rouhani is due to leave for India on Thursday to discuss the latest regional and global developments. (Photo: File)

Tehran: Iran's President Hassan Rouhani will visit India this week for three days, Iran's local media reported on Monday.

Mr Rouhani is due to leave for India on Thursday to discuss "the latest regional and global developments", semi-official ISNA news agency said.

He was invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2017, ISNA said.

India and Iran have collaborated on key projects, most notably the Chabahar port in south-eastern Iran that was inaugurated in December.

The port has been touted as a way for India to establish trade routes that bypass its rival Pakistan, but the project has seen multiple delays.

India has been a key purchaser of Iranian oil and gas, and maintained trade ties even as international sanctions were imposed on Iran over its nuclear programme between 2012 and 2016.

However, there have been tensions in the relationship, with the local media in India reporting frustrations over delays in awarding a contract to develop a major gas field known as Farzad B in the Persian Gulff, that led India to announce it was reducing its oil imports from Iran in protest in March 2017, leading Tehran to say it was restricting credit lines to India.Muslim women from all across the world came forth to share their own experiences of being assaulted and harassed during Hajj.

Majority women claimed to be harassed while performing tawaf, a ritual central to Hajj wherein devotees circle around the sacred Kabaah inside the Al-Masjid AL-Haram Mosque. (Representational Image)

The #MeToo campaign has brought horrific details of women being harassed across the world, shocking the world to its very core however, without surprising anyone.

As accounts of women being groped, raped, tortured, harassed and bullied inundated the social media, more and more found the strength to voice their own stories.

Sabica Khan from Pakistan is one such woman, who rocked the Muslim world with her accounts of being sexually violated while in the holy city of Mecca, the DailyMail reported.

Soon enough, Muslim women from all across the world came forth to share their own experiences of being assaulted and harassed ironically, during Hajj- the most auspicious pilgrimage for Muslims.

Sabica took to Facebook to share her story:

"I was afraid to share this because it might hurt your religious sentiments.

While performing my tawaaf around the Kaaba after isha prayer, something really weird happened. It was my 3rd tawaf, and I felt a hand on my waist. I thought it was just an innocent mistake. I completely ignored. Then... I felt it again. It made me feel very uncomfortable. I kept moving. During my 6th tawaf I suddenly felt something aggressively poking my butt, I froze, unsure of whether it was intentional. I ignored and just kept moving slowly because the crowd was huge. I even tried to turn around but woefully couldn't. When I reached the Yemeni corner, someone tried to grab and pinch my butt. I decided to stop there. Grabbed his hand and threw it off me *couldn't move or turn around* I was literally petrified. Couldn't even escape, so I stood, and turned around as much as I could, to see what's happening, I turned around but... couldn't see who it was.

I felt so violated. I felt unable to speak out. Stayed quiet because I knew no one would trust me, or nobody would take it seriously, except my mum. So I told her everything when I returned to the hotel room. She was incredibly confused and devastated. After this incident, she never allowed me to go there again alone.

It's sad to say that you are not even safe at holy places. I've been harrased, not once, not twice , but thrice. My entire experience at the holy city is overshadowed by this horrible incident.

I believe it's totally okay and important to be open about harassment.

Don't know how many of you had similar experience there but this incident has unfortunately left me feeling upset."

Facebook later removed her post for reasons still unknown.

After Sabicas post  which has been shared by scores and has received close to 840 comments  Egyptian Feminist author and public speaker on Arab and Muslim issues and global feminism Mona Eltahawy kick-started #MosqueMeToo campaign and Muslim women followed suit.

I have shared my experience of being sexually assaulted during Haj in 1982 when I was 15 in the hope that it will help fellow Muslim women break silence and taboo around their experience of sexual harassment/abuse during Haj/Umra or in sacred spaces. Lets use #MosqueMeToo https://t.co/uDsZFDolgX  Mona Eltahawy (@monaeltahawy) February 6, 2018

Most women complained about being harassed while performing tawaf, a ritual central to Hajj wherein devotees circle around the sacred Kabaah inside the Al-Masjid AL-Haram Mosque.

I was sexually harassed at 21 when I was doing Tawaf, right there in that most sacred place! The fact that it happened there, in that place where it's supposed to be the holiest and safest sanctuary, broke me so bad that I never recovered from it! #MosqueMeToo  Z R (@ZRaeesy) February 9, 2018

#MosqueMeToo I was sexually harassed in Umrah during Tawaf.I thought it was accidental but he kept groping me. I mean if men cant discipline themselves even in the HOLIEST place on earth then Ive truly lost hope in men to ever stop harassing us. We just want to be safe.   (@SherlockCloset) February 9, 2018

One woman writes on Twitter about how she had to abstain from visiting the mosque the entirety of the holy month of Ramadan because of a man who threatened her space.

Had to stop going for Taraweeh and Qiyam one Ramadan because of some gentlemen. Stayed mum because I thought no one'd believe me, or I'd be accused of having an overactive imagination. #MosqueMeToo is our skeleton in the closet.  Kali (@maimoonarahman) February 6, 2018

Another talks about being groped at the tender age of ten during the holy Friday prayers for Muslims called Jumaa.

I was 10 years old and I thought my sister was gripping my hips as not to lose me in the huge crowd after Jumaa prayer. But my sister was next to me and those turned out to not be my sisters hands.



He didnt move until she elbowed him away.



#MosqueMeToo  K R (@NewtmasGrape) February 9, 2018

Another woman talks about being harassed at the age of fifteen next to Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi in Medina,. I thaught Madina is a safe city, but I was wrong. I'll never forget and forgive, she writes.

a young guy touched my body just next to Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi in Medina, Saudi Arabia. I was 15 years old and he was in his 20s.

I thaught Madina is a safe city, but I was wrong.

I'll never forget and forgive.#MosqueMeToo   (@rubahdokht) February 9, 2018

Hajj is compulsory at least once for all Muslims who are physically capable. For many it commemorates the most landmark moment of their lives. To have that tainted by something as animalistic as sexual predation is beyond understanding and yet a part of reality for so many Muslim women, as is clear from the accounts of those who participated in the #MosqueMeToo campaign.The two leaders discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday met with industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business. (Photo: Twitter/ @MEAIndia)

Muscat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday met with industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business.

Modi, who arrived here Sunday from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, also met Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman, Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

The two leaders discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

4 countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership. pic.twitter.com/98IHC7CIGH  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 12, 2018

In his meeting with Deputy PM for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman, HH Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said, PM @narendramodi discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest. #ExtendedNeighbourhood pic.twitter.com/oeIJT0JsG8  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 12, 2018

"Four countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership," Kumar said.

Later, the prime minister will visit the historic Shiva Temple of Muscat. The temple is one of the oldest of the region and is located in the Matrah area near Sultans Palace.

The temple was constructed 125 years back by Merchant Community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

The temple has three deities -- Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

He will also visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before heading back to Delhi.The Palestinian leader is set to meet Putin to boost ties with Russia ahead of UN Security Council meetings. For the first time Trump criticises Israel over the settlements and the failed peace process with the Palestinians. Iranian drone entered into Israel, but Tehran denies the claim. Israeli fighters carry out strikes in Syria; one is shot down.

Jerusalem (AsiaNews/Agencies) - In a Middle East increasingly torn by wars and divisions, regional and global leaders are trying to boost (old) alliances and dampen new sources of tensions.

Against this backdrop, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas flew to Russia on an official visit today. In Moscow, he is set to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin just two weeks after the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Russian capital.

The Palestinian leader is seeking the Kremlin's support against the Israel-US axis. The relationship is stronger today after a period of crisis during the previous Obama administration and especially since US President Donald Trump decided to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and move the US embassy to the city.

Following statements from the White House, Palestinian leaders have cut off all relations with the United States, whom they no longer deem a credible mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

This explains why Mahmoud Abbas is trying to renew relations with Russia and have a strong ally in the UN Security Council where he is expected to speak on 20 February.

Analysts and experts see Abbas's visit as an attempt to reinforce ties between Moscow and the Palestinians in order to counter the effects of improved relations between Russia and Israel.

However, although the meeting with Putin may be a necessary political step, its effects on international relations and the balance of power in the Middle East will be marginal at best.

In fact, last month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov estimated the chances of resuming direct talks between Israel and Palestine as "close to zero".

Amid the war of words and fluid alliances, US President Donald Trump appears to have taken a step back from Israels leaders for the first time.

In an interview, he said he was "not necessarily sure" Israel was seeking to reach a peace agreement with the Palestinians.

Previously Trump had accused Mahmoud Abbas and Palestinian leaders for what he saw as their unwillingness to negotiate peace, but had refrained from criticising Israels positions.

Now the US leader expressed concerns over Israeli settlement activity in Jerusalem and the West Bank, which the Netanyahu government has been intensifying.

"The settlements are something that very much complicates and always have complicated making peace, so I think Israel has to be very careful with the settlements," Trump said.

Meanwhile, tensions are rising in Syria, with a confrontation between Israel and Iran becoming increasingly possible.

After carrying out what appear to be the largest strikes in Syria in decades, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said We inflicted on Saturday a heavy blow to Iranian and Syrian forces", adding that his country would defend itself "against any attack".

Israel carried out attacks in Syrian territory against Iranian targets after an Iranian drone entered Israeli airspace, a claim Iran immediately dismissed.

In a joint statement Iran, Russia and Lebanons Shia movement Hezbollah said that Israels airspace had not been violated, accusing Israel of lying in order to have an excuse to carry out its operations in Syria.

During the raids in Syria on Saturday, an Israeli F-16 fighter jet was shot down by Syria air defences, believed to be the first time Israel has lost a jet in combat since 2006.

According to an Israeli military spokesperson, the pilots ejected from the plane in Israel and were taken to hospital, one of them in serious conditions. (DS)Academics, lawyers, human rights activists ask the Holy See to demand greater guarantees of freedom in the appointment of bishops and religious freedom in the country. Xi Jinping scepticism towards China. " Rushing for a quick achievement, taking a wrong step, can result in total failure".

Hong Kong (AsiaNews) - "An irreversible and regrettable mistake ": this is how a group of Catholic personalities in Hong Kong and in the world defines the possible agreement between China and the Holy See on bishops' nominations, reported by some media as "imminent". In an open letter addressed to the bishops of the world they ask them to ask the Holy See to stop the agreement and to re-set it with precise guarantees on the pontiff's freedom to appoint bishops and with guarantees of true religious freedom for Christians and society . Among the signatories are academics, lawyers, human rights activists. Here is the text of the petition sent to AsiaNews, also found on the site http://www.freecatholicsinchina.org / and open to signatures.

An Open Letter to Conferences of Catholic Bishops Across the World Regarding the Possible Agreement Between the Holy See and the Government of the Peoples Republic of China

Your Eminence and Most Reverend,

We are a group of Catholics. Recently there has been news reports indicating that the Holy See and the government of the Peoples Republic of China will soon reach an agreement over the issue of bishop appointment, as well as recognition of seven illicit bishops. We are deeply shocked and disappointed. With our love and allegiance to the Holy Mother Church, we hope you and the bishops conferences would pay attention to such development.

According to the teachings of the Holy Mother Church, bishops are the successors of the Apostles, bearing the duties of leading and tending the flock: The Church is apostolic. She is built on a lasting foundation: the twelve apostles of the Lamb ( Rev 21:14). She is indestructible (Mt 16:18). She is upheld infallibly in the truth: Christ governs her through Peter and the other apostles, who are present in their successors, the Pope and the college of bishops.(Catechism, 869) All bishops must therefore be appointed by the Successor of Peter  the Holy Father, the Pope. And they must be men of moral principles and wisdom. The government must play no role in the selection process:

[T]he right of nominating and appointing bishops belongs properly, peculiarly, and per se exclusively to the competent ecclesiastical authority. Therefore, for the purpose of duly protecting the freedom of the church and of promoting more conveniently and efficiently the welfare of the faithful, this holy council desires that in future no more rights or privileges of election, nomination, presentation, or designation for the office of bishop be granted to civil authorities. (Christus Dominus, para. 20)

Yet, the seven illicit bishops were not appointed by the Pope, and their moral integrity is questionable. They do not have the trust of the faithful, and have never repented publicly. If they were to be recognized as legitimate, the faithful in Greater China would be plunged into confusion and pain, and schism would be created in the Church in China.

We fully understand that the Holy See is eager to be able to evangelize in China more effectively. However, we are deeply worried that the deal would create damages that cannot be remedied. The Communist Party in China, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, has repeatedly destroyed crosses and churches, and the Patriotic Association maintains its heavy-handed control over the Church. Religious persecution has never stopped. Xi has also made it clear that the Party will strengthen its control over religions. So there is no possibility that the Church can enjoy more freedom. In addition, the Communist Party has a long history of breaking promises. We are worried that the agreement would not only fail to guarantee the limited freedom desired by the Church, but also damage the Churchs holiness, catholicity, and apostolicity, and deal a blow to the Churchs moral power. The Church would no longer be able to have the trust of people, and serves as a leaven and as a kind of soul for human society as it is to be renewed in Christ and transformed into Gods family. (Gaudium et Spes, 40)

In his apostolic exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, our beloved Pope Francis writes: Sometimes I wonder if there are people in todays world who are really concerned about generating processes of people-building, as opposed to obtaining immediate results which yield easy, quick short-term political gains, but do not enhance human fullness The Lord himself, during his earthly life, often warned his disciples that there were things they could not yet understand and that they would have to await the Holy Spirit (Jn 16:12-13). The parable of the weeds among the wheat (Mt 13:24-30) graphically illustrates an important aspect of evangelization: the enemy can intrude upon the kingdom and sow harm, but ultimately he is defeated by the goodness of the wheat. (224-225) The Spirit of God sometimes does not allow us to proceed. (ref. Act 16:6) Though the force of evil is growing, time belongs to God. By putting our trust in the Lord, the dark night will eventually pass. Rushing for a quick achievement, taking a wrong step, can result in total failure.

His Holiness has always been attentive to the sufferings of persecuted Christians. He once said: Legal systems, therefore, whether state or international, are called upon to recognize, guarantee and protect religious freedom, which is an intrinsic right inherent to human nature, to the dignity of being free, and is also a sign of a healthy democracy and one of the principal sources of the legitimacy of the State. It causes me great pain to know that Christians in the world submit to the greatest amount of such discrimination. Persecution against Christians today is actually worse than in the first centuries of the Church, and there are more Christian martyrs today than in that era.[i]

We believe that persecution of Christians in China also pains His Holiness. Therefore, we urge that any agreement must be grounded in the protection of religious freedom, and an end to religious persecution. Unfortunately, as a newly-revised Regulation on Religious Affairs, which allows for stricter scrutiny over religions, has just been put into effect in early February, we cannot see any possibility that the coming agreement can result in the Chinese government stopping its persecution of the Church, and ceasing its violations of religious freedom.

Your Eminence and Most Reverend, we earnestly hope that, you, your brothers and your flock continue to pray for the communion of the Church in China, as well as her pastoral ministry. We earnestly ask you, with the love on the people of God, appeal to the Holy See: Please rethink the current agreement, and stop making an irreversible and regrettable mistake.

May the Almighty God bless the Church in China!

Martyr Saints of China, pray for us!

The initiators are university professors, lecturers, researchers, human rights activists and lawyers:

Dr. Kenneth Ka-lok Chan (Hong Kong)

Prof. Joseph Yu-shek Cheng (Hong Kong)

Mr. Yiu-leung Cheung (Hong Kong)

Dr Rodney Wai-chi Chu (Hong Kong)

Dr. Martin C. K. Chung (Hong Kong)

Mr. Yan-ho Lai (Hong Kong)

Dr. Wing-kwan Lam (Hong Kong)

Dr. Lisa Yuk-ming Leung (Hong Kong)

Mr. Kwok-ming Ma (Hong Kong)

Mr. Chit-wai John Mok (Irvine, US)

Dr. Yik-fai Tam (San Francisco, US)

Prof. Wai Ting (Hong Kong)

Mr. Yiu-ming To (Hong Kong)

Mr. Benedict Rogers (London, UK)

Mr. Patrick Yu (Northern Ireland, UK)

[i] Address to participants in the international conference "Religious freedom according to international law and the global conflict of values", 20 June 2014.The Church's contribution to the country, especially in education, was discussed. So was the governments commitment to peaceful coexistence between the various religious communities and defence of minorities and refugees.

Vatican City (AsiaNews)  Bangladesh's commitment to peaceful coexistence between religions and to the defence of minorities, with "appreciation" for what the country does for Rohingya refugees, were at the centre of talks that Ms Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, had today in the Vatican.

A statement from the Holy See described the talks as cordial. The press release said that good bilateral relations were evoked, and satisfaction was expressed for the Holy Fathers recent apostolic trip to Bangladesh and for the keen participation in the event on the part of the population, including many non-Catholics.

"Attention then turned to the contribution of the Church in the country, especially in the field of education, and on the effort of the State in promoting the peaceful coexistence of the various religious communities and in the defence of minorities and refugees, expressing appreciation for the reception of the Rohingya and hope for a just and lasting solution to their ordeal."

After meeting with Pope Francis, the Bangladeshi prime minister met with Secretary of State Card Pietro Parolin together with Under Secretary for Relations with States Mgr Antoine Camilleri.Unlike "defeat" and "resignation", Christian patience is the "virtue" of "those on a journey". "And when you go on a journey, many things happen that are not always good. The attitude of parents when a sick or disabled child is born, tells me so much about patience on the journey. 'But thank God he is alive!': These are the patient people".

Vatican City (AsiaNews)  Patience is the virtue of the many who are on their journey and bear difficulties and trials on their shoulders, like many Christians persecuted and chased out of the Middle East, because they are Christians. This thought for persecuted Christians marked Pope Francis homily at Mass this morning at Casa Santa Marta, inspired by a phrase of St. James the Apostle:The testing of your faith produces patience.

Patience in life and in the face of trials certainly not easy to understand, the Pope said. Christian patience is neither resignation nor an attitude of defeat, he continued. Rather, it is a virtue of those who are on the journey, those who are moving forward, rather than stopping and becoming closed off. When you are on the journey, many things happen that are not always good. For me, the attitude of parents when a child is born sick or disabled says a lot about patience as a virtue on the journey. But thank God that [our child] is alive! [They might say.] These are people with patience. And they bear the life of that child with love, even to the end. And it is not easy care for a disabled or sick child year after year after year but the joy of having that child gives them the strength to go forward. And this is patience, not resignation  that is, it is the virtue that comes when one is on the journey.

Pope Francis spoke about the etymology of the word, saying patience carries with it the sense of responsibility, because it signifies bearing with suffering, rather than letting it go. And, he continued, suffering is borne with joy, gladness, perfect joy, according to the Apostle: Patience means bearing with, not entrusting problems to another, who bears the difficulty: I bear it, this is my difficulty, my problem. Is something causing me suffering? Eh, certainly! But I bear it. To bear with it. And patience is also the wisdom of being able to dialogue with the limits. There are many limits in life, but impatience doesnt want them, it ignores them because it doesnt know how to dialogue with limits. There is some kind of fantasy of omnipotence, or of laziness, we dont know.

But this patience St James speaks about is not simply a counsel for Christians, the Pope explained. If we look at the history of salvation, he said, we can see the patience of God, our Father, who has led and carried His stubborn people forward each time they strayed one way or the other. And the Father shows this patience, too, to each one of us, accompanying us, and waiting for the right time. God also sent His Son, that He might enter into patience, taking up His mission, and offering Himself decisively in His Passion.

And here I think of our persecuted sisters and brothers in the Middle East, the Pope said, being chased away precisely because they are Christians: And yet they are determined to remain Christians: they have embrace patience just as the Lord embraced patience. With these ideas, perhaps, we can pray today, pray for our people: Lord, give to your people patience to bear their trials. And can also pray for ourselves. So often we are impatient: When things dont go our way, we complain. But, step back for a moment, think about the patience of God the Father, embrace patience, as Jesus did. Patience is a beautiful virtue. Let us ask the Lord for it.In one Surah, Mary is described as one of Gods purest creatures. This is the first time that a judge imposes a "pedagogical" sentence. Political and religious leaders praise the ruling.

Beirut (AsiaNews/Agencies)  A Lebanese court has sentenced two teenagers to the study of the Quran in order to learn what the sacred text says about Our Lady.

Judge Jocelyne Matta convicted two young Muslims, aged 17 and 18, for desecrating a statue of the Virgin in their village, Akkar district, northern Lebanon.

Ten days ago, the duo went inside a church in their predominantly Christian village, where they threw the statue to the ground, kiss it and carried out lewd acts. The two recorded their stunt, and posted it on WhatsApp.

Alerted, the police eventually took them into custody and brought them before a prosecutor, who turned them over to a magistrate.

Faced with the case, the judge cited a surah (a chapter in the Quran), The family of Imran, in which Mary is defined as one of Gods purest creatures. She ruled that the two teenagers had to read, learn, and recite the verses in question.

The accused were later seen in the courthouse in Tripoli trying to learn the sacred passages in front of juvenile officers under close police watch. After purging their sentence", they expressed their remorse to the magistrate.

This is the first time that a Lebanese judge issued a "pedagogical" ruling rather than impose a prison sentence, taking advantage of article 111 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which authorises examining magistrates to replace a custodial sentence with a commensurate one.

The decision was welcomed in various political and religious circles. Prime Minister Saad Hariri described the ruling on twitter as a summit in justice and teaching common concepts between Muslims and Christians.

Speaking to Lebanese French-language daily LOrient le Jour, Mgr Georges Abou Jaoude, Maronite bishop of Tripoli, praised the decision because "it raises awareness among young people, whose behaviour often shows ignorance."

As a way to encourage outreach among the new generations, the bishop and the mufti of Tripoli, Sheikh Malek Chaar, have set up an inter-religious commission.Dan Murphys latest unique marketing move





Dan Murphys has announced a unique marketing move for March; selling admission to an inner Sydney house where Australians can learn how to make cocktails at home.

Dan Murphys Chippendale located House of Discovery will feature different activities in each room of the house including a lesson on tequila, how to make cocktails at home sessions and a class on how to match food with drinks.

A DJ will be playing and a number of installations will provide photo opportunities.

Dan Murphys Spirit Ambassador, Charlie Ainsbury, said Australians are increasingly interested in learning the tricks of the trade from behind the bar.

My role with Dan Murphys is to help make the home bar more accessible by encouraging everyone to play around with new flavours and learn the foundations of what makes a good cocktail, Ainsbury said.

Dan Murphys House of Discovery will be open from 7 March 2018  9 March 2018 with admission tickets sold online for AUD $50.

Related articlesFirst Chobani Incubator start-ups announced



Chobani's first Australian Food Incubator inductees

The first five businesses to go through Chobani Australias food incubator program have been announced.

In August 2017, Chobani founder and CEO, Hamdi Ulukaya visited Australia to launch the Australian version of Chobanis incubator program designed to support food start-ups.

Chobani has now chosen its first five Australian start-ups to spend four months at the incubation facility located within the Food Innovation Centre at Monash University.

The first five Chobani Incubator start-ups

99th Monkey, Oakleigh (VIC)

99th Monkey makes nut butters, using all ethically sourced, minimally processed ingredients. 99th Monkey started selling from farmers markets before expanding into independent health-food and fine food stores, with product now stocked in 700 stores around Australia.

Bake Mixes, Watsonia (VIC)

Bake Mixes creates simple to use, health-focused baking mixes. Bake Mixes started in a home kitchen in Melbourne and the range is now produced in a not-profit factory and available for purchase at over 350 health food stores Australia-wide.

Matcha Maiden, Malvern (VIC)

Matcha Maiden were the first to bring Matcha to Australia. Today Matcha Maiden sells organic matcha powder, matcha tea, matcha protein slice mix and more.

Mingle Seasoning, Strathmore (VIC)

An innovative business which creates seasonings which are low in sugar and salt.

Kooee! Snacks, Launceston (TAS)

A producer of beef jerky made from grass-fed Tasmanian beef. The company is committed to creating jobs in their regional factory in Tasmania and receiving funding from the Federal Government to make this a reality. Kooee is currently sold in over 500 retailers in Australian.

Across the four months, the start-ups will receive access to Chobani staff members and executives and a $10, 000 grant.

Related articlesFoodLegal to run Country of Origin Countdown breakfast





With the countdown to Country of Origin compliance just around the corner FoodLegal is running a not to be missed information session.

FoodLegals Country of Origin Countdown Breakfast Seminar will answer all of your pressing CoOL questions including whether the bar chart can be avoided or is it necessary to identify single countries of origin?

Australian food producers must comply with the new Country of Origin labelling system by 1 July 2018.

Held at Monash Universitys Clayton campus Thursday 1 March 2018, the seminar will be hosted by FoodLegals Principal Lawyer, Charles Fisher.

Charles Fisher is a regulatory advisor to leading Australian and international food and beverage companies, specialising in compliance assessment and new product development.

Your Country of Origin labelling questions answered

Some of the questions to be addressed in the session include:

Is there a way to avoid the bar chart?

Is it necessary to identify single countries of origin?

How to avoid misleading or deceiving consumers?

How to distinguish between non-priority and priority foods?

Is a doughnut a priority or non-priority food?

What does substantial transformation really mean?

Will roasting and dry blending meet the test?

When is water Australian?

Doors open at 7:30am with the seminar starting from 8:00am, running until 9:30am. Entry fee is AUD $88.00 including GST and breakfast.

After the seminar, participants will be offered the chance to tour the Food Innovation Centre at Monash  a world class facility that helps food producers bring ideas to life.

More information on FoodLegals Country of Origin Countdown Breakfast can be found HERE.

Bookings are essential and can be made online HERE.

Related articlesGelatissimo selling Chinese New Year gelato flavour



Gelatissimo's Chinese New Year Flavour

Gelatissimo is selling a limited-edition gelato flavour in celebration of Chinese New Year.

The new Fortune and Fullness flavour is inspired by food traditionally eaten at Chinese New Year and consists of peanut butter flavoured gelato with a crunchy sesame swirl.

Gelatissimo Product Development Manager, Filiz Kaya, said gelato is ideal for sharing with loved ones who are coming together to celebrate Chinese New Year.

We also wanted to branch out and create a flavour that ties in the significance associated with Chinese New Year and different symbolic food enjoyed in celebrations, Kaya said.

And the delicate, sweet flavours of sesame seeds and the robust flavours of roasted peanuts does just that.

During Chinese New Year celebrations peanuts are eaten to encourage longevity and good fortune. Sesame seeds symbolise fullness.

Gelatissimos Fortune and Fullness flavour will be available at Gelatissimo stores Australia-wide from 15 February 2018 whilst stocks last.

Gelatissimo is not the only Australian food company releasing a limited-edition product in celebration of Chinese New Year. Chobani has launched a mandarin flavoured yoghurt packaged in red and gold colours.

Chinese New Year will fall on 16 February 2018.

Related articlesPizza Hut Australia opens second new concept store



Image Credit: Sydney Commercial Photography

Pizza Hut Australia has opened its second new concept store that includes a dine-in.

Similar to the older style Pizza Huts once popular in the 90s, the new Marsden Park Pizza Hut will offer unlimited pizza, but only on certain days of the week.

The popular Dessert Hut is back with customers able to fill up on ice cream or frozen custard with toppings for $5 a cup.

Pizza Hut Australias Innovation Director, Matthew Sawyer, said Pizza Huts new concept stores have links back to Pizza Huts old dine-in stores, but are updated for the next generation.

We didnt want to forget our heritage in this rebrand, Sawyer said.

For so many Australian adults there are fond memories of the Pizza Hut restaurants where, as a child, the experience was magical and remembered fondly.

We needed to maintain our links to that time  but it needed an update to remain relevant to a new audience.

Related articlesResearchers call for jump in obesity during pregnancy to be addressed





The number of Australian women who are obese or overweight during pregnancy is increasing, resulting in worrying health outcomes University of Sydney researchers have reported.

Published online by the Medical Journal of Australia, a study involving researching 42, 582 first-time Australian mothers between 1990  2014 found obesity rates increased from 4.8 per cent to 7.3 per cent.

The occurrence of overweight women who were pregnant increased from 12.7 per cent to 16.4 per cent.

Were overweight and obese women to have moved down one BMI category during 20102014, 19 per cent of preeclampsia,15.9 per cent of macrosomia, 14.2 per cent of gestational diabetes, 8.5 per cent of caesarean deliveries, 7.1 per cent of low for gestational age birthweight, 6.8 per cent of post-partum haemorrhage, 6.5 per cent of admissions to special care nursery, 5.8 per cent of prematurity, and 3.8 per cent of fetal abnormality could have been averted, the authors wrote.

Time to improve pre-pregnancy health says experts

In light of the studys findings, the researchers said women need to be supported in improving their pre-pregnancy weight.

Expert national and international consensus statements support improving pre-conception health and detailed prevention strategies, the researchers said.

They recommend reducing obesity as a means for improving reproductive health outcomes, and potentially also reducing societal costs.

Investing in obesity prevention strategies that target women prior to their becoming pregnant is likely to provide the greatest benefit, the researchers concluded.

Related articlesThe downside of scale in FMCG





Woolies and Coles have around 75 per cent of FMCG sales in this country, depending on whose numbers you believe, and which categories are included.

They have huge scale, from the farm gate through the supply chain to the consumers wallets. As a result, their cost of capital is low, as lenders, both cash and equity see the risks as being low. When you add in their trading terms as a component of their cost of capital, as it should be, the numbers would look even better. Pay your suppliers in 90 days, having used your scale to reduce the price to subsistence levels or lower, minus the deductions for whatever you can dream up, during which time, the stock has turned over several times.

Bargain!

By contrast, the small suppliers, those few that are left, are seen as poor risks, which in fact they are being an endangered species. Their costs of capital are high, as are their operating and working capital costs, which leaves little to nothing to be invested in the future of their businesses.

That is why they have mostly disappeared. Their management has been unable to balance the competing demands of low price and increasing operating costs, such that even large seemingly successful businesses became smaller unsuccessful ones to be sold off to whoever had the cash. Consider Goodman Fielder, SPC, Dairy Farmers, National Foods, CSR,  need I go on?

The long-term problem that this trend delivers is that innovation, the creation of new value for customers, and the lifeblood of retailers comes from the edges, from outside the status quo. It is usually those smaller, entrepreneurial businesses that get in there and have a go, take a risk, and survive on their vision, wits and determination, that deliver the category makers.

Pity they are almost all gone, and what we have left is a number of traditional retailers seeking to optimise their existing operations, while having nothing to fight the well-funded disruptors coming to eat their lunch.

Woolworths emasculating and closing Thomas Dux is the classic case of corporate strategic blindness. Now they have backtracked with the very well thought out new Marrickville Metro store, which is not Woolworths, but the ghost of Thomas Dux back to haunt them.

The downside of scale is the conservatism and lack of real innovative and strategic vision that comes with a business intent on optimising the current model. If that worked, Olivetti would still be a significant player in the document creation business, Kodak would still be creating memories, and Microsoft would still be a near monopoly.

Allen Roberts is a guest contributor to Australian Food News and writes another of his regular articles here. He is the Director of Strategy Audit www.strategyaudit.com.au and has worked in the food sector for more than 35 years. To read his full biography click HERE.

Related articlesI married my wife in Thailand. If her visa is rejected, she wants me to fly to Thailand straight away to divorce her. I do not particularly want to go all that way if I cannot divorce her straight away. If I have to wait 12 months, how can I prove we are separated? I am not sure about these things.Congrats on your visa grant! You're no longer on a 457, actually, now that your 820 has been granted - you're on your 820, which means unrestricted working rights. Have you already got your Medicare? You were eligible as soon as you submitted your 820 application, so if you haven't gotten it yet, go do it!You are a temporary resident now, yes.Look at your calendar - what date did you apply for your 820? Take that date and add two years - that's your "eligibility date" for your 801. Write that on your calendar somewhere so you don't forget it. While it's not technically considered a new application, Immigration will require you to submit more documentation to prove your relationship is still ongoing before granting your 801 and ***they no longer will remind you of this!*** (which I think is crazy!). It's on you to remember to do it, so it's critical you don't forget. It's very similar to the documentation you provide for the 820 (photos, bank statements, etc.) There's a form for it in your ImmiAccount.Your "eligibility date" is not your due date for providing the info - they just will not begin processing your submission until that date. And expect to wait quite a while once you've submitted it for your PR to be processed - I waited 11 months past my eligibility date, but the wait is even longer now.Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism.St. Petersburg Police are investigating a fatal stabbing at an apartment complex.

Police: Man breaks into apartment, is stabbed

Zachery Eggleston, 23, died at hospital



Incident under investigation, no charges filed

According to officials, 23-year-old Zachery Eggleston died after being stabbed at an apartment in the 500 block of 77th Avenue North.

Officers said Eggleston broke into an apartment where a man, woman and her daughter were sleeping. The two men fought, and the man stabbed Eggleston.

Both men were taken to a hospital to be treated for their injuries. Eggleston died.

Authorities said both men live at the apartment complex, but the men apparently did not know each other.

An investigation is ongoing, but no charges have been filed as of right now.The investigation continues into a machete wielding man, shot and killed by Tampa Police.

Family says man killed by police was a vet, suffered from PTSD

Tampa police shot, killed Sydney Richardson IV Saturday

Richardson was threatening a family member with a machete

PREVIOUS STORY: Tampa Police shoot, kill machete-wielding man

Police say 48-year-old Sydney Richardson IV was threatening a teenage girl with the weapon inside a home on the 1800 block of Marvy Avenue.

A neighbor, David Wheeler, heard it all unfold.

Its scary. Ive been here 11 years. Ive never had a problem like that over here," Wheeler said.

Police say the girl that Richardson threatened was his cousin. Her mother went next door to Wheeler for help.

She asked me to take her kids. I took the kids in the house which was ok. After that, all I heard was gunshots, Wheeler said.

Those gunshots were from Tampa Police. An officer went into the home and found Wheeler cornering the girl in a room.

They used a stun gun but he still wouldn't drop the machete.

After using it a few more times, we were concerned for our safety and for the woman in the room. Thats when we opened fire, said spokesperson Steve Hegarty.

The gunshots killed Richardson.

The family did not wish to speak but they say he was a veteran and suffered from PTSD.

While no one else was hurt, the family said the girl is in shock.

Police are still investigating what started the confrontation. The officers involved are on routine paid leave.Protesters took to the streets this weekend in Manatee County to speak out against a recent fatal deputy-involved shooting.

Manatee group takes to the street to protest fatal deputy-involved shooting

About 20 protesters marched and picketed on Saturday

Mobley, 38, was shot after deputies responded to a disturbance

New info released in fatal Manatee deputy-involved shooting (Jan. 31)

About 20 protesters marched and picketed on Saturday. The group marched from the Manatee County Sheriffs Office headquarters near DeSoto Square Mall and walked east to South Tamiami Trail and U.S. 301.

This protest was second since the Jan. 23 shooting of Corey Mobley.

Mobley, 38, was shot after deputies responded to a disturbance at a gas station in the 3000 block of Cortez Road West in Bradenton. As Mobley and his estranged wife were meeting to exchange children, the situation apparently became heated.

Cell phone video showed Mobley's son trying to pull his dad off his mom.

When deputies arrived, Mobley took off, heading to nearby home. Deputies followed him to the residence and witnesses said Mobley approached Deputy Patrick Drymon, threatened him, shouted that he had a gun, and reached into his pocket.

That's when Deputy Drymon fired multiple shots at Mobley.

Mobley was taken to Sarasota Memorial hospital where he was pronounced dead.

No gun was found on Mobley so it remains unclear why he would have threatened deputies that way.

Meanwhile, protesters said they are not buying the official story and plan another march later this week. Protesters are demanding an independent review board investigate the shooting.GET OUR NEW APP Our new Spectrum News app is the most convenient way to get the stories that matter to you. Download it here.For Immediate Release, February 12, 2018 Contact: George Kimbrell, (971) 271-7372, gkimbrell@centerforfoodsafety.org

Paul Achitoff, (808) 599-2436, achitoff@earthjustice.org

Nathan Donley, (971) 717-6406, ndonley@biologicaldiversity.org Farmers, Conservationists Challenge Trump's EPA, Monsanto Over Crop-damaging Pesticide Dicamba Evidence Shows Hundreds of Endangered Species at Risk, Unprotected WASHINGTON Public-interest organizations representing farmers and conservationists made their legal case in a federal lawsuit on Friday challenging the Environmental Protection Agencys approval of Monsantos new XtendiMax pesticide. XtendiMax is Monsantos version of dicamba, an old and highly drift-prone weed-killer. The EPAs approval permitted XtendiMax to be sprayed for the first time on growing soybeans and cotton that Monsanto has genetically engineered to be resistant to dicamba. The 2017 crop season  the first year of XtendiMax use  was an unprecedented disaster. Just as critics warned would happen, dicamba sprayed on Monsantos GE soybeans and cotton formed vapor clouds that drifted to damage a host of crops and wild plants. More than 3 million acres of soybeans as well as scores of vegetable and fruit crops, trees and shrubs throughout the country were reportedly damaged by dicamba drift. Flowering plants near cropland also suffered, with potential harms to pollinators, as well as hundreds of endangered animal and plant species. Agronomists reported they had never seen herbicide-related drift damage on anything approaching this scale before. As the 2018 season approaches, experts predict similar widespread devastation. The evidence shows that, rather than protecting farmers and the public interest, government officials rushed this pesticide to market without the rigorous analysis and data the law requires, said George Kimbrell of the Center for Food Safety, counsel in the case. There was good reason that decision had such devastating consequences last year: it was illegal. The papers filed in court tell the story of how the EPA should have known this would occur, yet instead was pressured by Monsanto into approving the pesticide without any measures to prevent vapor drift. The evidence in the case also shows that in late 2017, under pressure to take some action, the EPA adopted revised instructions for use Monsanto proposed and approved  measures that agronomists believe will again be ineffective. Last year, EPA ignored concerns of farmers, caving to Monsantos pressure and rushing dicamba-resistant seeds to market. EPA has failed utterly to protect farmers from this exploding crisis, said Denise OBrien, Iowa farmer and board president of Pesticide Action Network. Im firmly against using dicamba, said Ben Burkett, National Family Farm Coalition board president raising soy, old-growth pine trees and roughly 20 different vegetables in Mississippi. Mother Nature will win this fight anyway, but dicamba is very detrimental to the environment and will cause more harm than good to farms and farmers. Not only did the EPA fail to protect farmers, it put at risk literally hundreds of endangered species. Despite its own conclusion that the approval might harm an extraordinary number of the protected birds, mammals and insects in dozens of states, the agency refused to seek the guidance of the federal expert wildlife agencies, as the Endangered Species Act requires, and instead approved Monsantos pesticide without any protective measures, and denied there would be any risk. Said Earthjustice attorney Paul Achitoff: EPAs disregard of both the law and the welfare of endangered whooping cranes, gray wolves, Indiana bats and hundreds of other species at risk of extinction is unconscionable. That the EPA would indulge in this kind of recklessness and junk science to appease Monsanto is shocking. The EPAs foolish approval of dicamba left a deep scar across millions of acres of farms and forests, said Nathan Donley, a senior scientist at the Center for Biological Diversity. The ill-advised rush to approve this dangerous drift-prone pesticide reflects just how far the EPA has strayed from its duty to protect Americans and wildlife from harmful toxins. The plaintiff organizations bringing the lawsuit are National Family Farm Coalition, Pesticide Action Network, Center for Food Safety and Center for Biological Diversity, represented jointly by legal counsel from Earthjustice and Center for Food Safety. Center for Food Safetys mission is to empower people, support farmers, and protect the earth from the harmful impacts of industrial agriculture. Through groundbreaking legal, scientific, and grassroots action, we protect and promote your right to safe food and the environment. Please join our more than 900,000 consumer and farmer advocates across the country at www.centerforfoodsafety.org. Twitter: @CFSTrueFood, @CFS_Press Earthjustice, the nations premier nonprofit environmental law organization, wields the power of law and the strength of partnership to protect peoples health, to preserve magnificent places and wildlife, to advance clean energy, and to combat climate change. Because the earth needs a good lawyer.For Immediate Release, February 12, 2018 Contact: Sarah Baillie, (520) 623-5252 x 308, sbaillie@biologicaldiversity.org 40,000 Endangered Species Condoms Sent as Unconventional Valentines Conservation-themed Condoms Highlight How Safe Sex Saves Wildlife TUCSON, Ariz. 40,000 free Endangered Species Condoms will be given away across the country by the Center for Biological Diversity on Valentines Day to help couples consider population growth's threat to wildlife before getting wild. The colorful condom packages include species threatened by population growth and slogans like Wrap with care, save the polar bear and When youre feeling tender, think about the hellbender. Lots of couples will get lucky this Valentine's Day, but wildlife will be far less fortunate in our increasingly crowded world, said Sarah Baillie, endangered species condoms coordinator at the Center. As our population grows and urban sprawl destroys wild spaces, species we know and love pay the price. The Endangered Species Condoms help people understand how conscientious family planning can protect wildlife. In the past 50 years, as human population has more than doubled, wildlife populations have been halved. The United Nations predicts that global population will reach 9.8 billion by 2050 and exceed 11 billion by 2100. At the end of 2017, there were nearly 326 million people living in the United States. There are more than 7.6 billion people on the planet, with the United States ranked as the third-most populous country. Scientists agree that we are currently in the midst of the planet's sixth mass wildlife extinction. While previous extinction periods were driven by geological or cosmic factors, the current crisis is caused by human activities. The habitat loss, resource depletion and climate change that come with rapid human population growth make it next to impossible for biodiversity to thrive. It's important to bring population growth back into the environmental conversation, said Baillie. Endangered Species Condoms make starting that conversation easier, and theyre a more interesting gift than old standbys like flowers and chocolate. Endangered Species Condoms are wrapped in colorful packages featuring six different endangered species and information about the impact of runaway human population growth on polar bears, monarch butterflies and other imperiled wildlife. The Center has given away 800,000 free Endangered Species Condoms since 2009. The Center's population and sustainability program uses creative media to promote a range of common-sense solutions like access to family planning and reproductive health services, as well as education, opportunity and equal rights for women and girls.For Immediate Release, February 12, 2018 Contacts: Jaclyn Lopez, Center for Biological Diversity, (727) 490-9190, jlopez@biologicaldiversity.org

Dennis Mader, People for Protecting Peace River, (863) 494-4687, protectpeaceriver@gmail.com

Glenn Compton, ManaSota-88, (941) 966-6256, ManaSota88@comcast.net

Andy Mele, Suncoast Waterkeeper, (914) 204-0030, andymele@mac.com Appeal Seeks to Protect Floridians, 50,000+ Acres, From Radioactive Waste and Phosphate Strip Mining ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. Four conservation organizations today filed an appeal challenging a Florida district courts decision that greenlights the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit to phosphate strip-mine more than 50,000 acres and produce mountains of radioactive fertilizer waste, jeopardizing Floridas aquifers and irreversibly destroying native plant and animal habitat in west-central Florida. The appeal to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals aims to overturn a lower courts decision upholding the Corps approval of mining that would threaten freshwater resources by allowing the unchecked growth of phosphogypsum stacks and obliterating wetlands and habitat for animals already clinging to survival. Floridas citizens have had enough of the phosphate industry that puts our aquifers at risk and decimates habitat for our wildlife, said Jaclyn Lopez, Florida director at the Center for Biological Diversity. The Corps failure to analyze these threats is unlawful and will devastate nearby communities. Once phosphate ore is removed from the earth via strip mining, it is sent to nearby fertilizer plants, where sulfuric acid turns it into phosphoric acid. This process results in thousands of acres of mutilated habitat and millions of tons of phosphogypsum, the radioactive byproduct of making fertilizer. Floridas 24 open-air gypstacks may be the largest repository of toxic and hazardous waste in the United States, said Andy Mele, Suncoast Waterkeeper. It is a toxic legacy with which no one in Florida has yet come to terms. Florida is already home to more than 1 billion tons of radioactive phosphogypsum, and the proposal would add approximately half a billion more tons. The phosphogypsum is piled up in stacks hundreds of feet high and hundreds of acres wide, and these gypstacks are prone to sinkholes and breaches. Florida is saddled with 24 gypstacks, while the majority of the fertilizer is exported abroad. In 2016, a sinkhole opened in a phosphogysum stack in Mulberry, releasing 215 million gallons of radioactive wastewater into the Floridan aquifer. This was not the first time a sinkhole opened in a gypstack, and was not even the first time a sinkhole opened at that gypstack. For too long, the phosphate industry has externalized the costs of its pollution. said Glenn Compton, executive director of ManaSota-88. Radioactive toxic waste disposal should not be an expense or risk the public has to deal with. The appeal cites violations of the National Environmental Policy Act and Endangered Species Act by the Army Corps and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for approving the project in a region of Florida known as Bone Valley. The conservation groups that filed todays appeal are the Center for Biological Diversity, ManaSota-88, People for Protecting Peace River and Suncoast Waterkeeper.For Immediate Release, February 12, 2018 Contact: Kristen Monsell, (914) 806-3467, kmonsell@biologicaldiversity.org Ninth Circuit Upholds Endangered Species Act Protections for Arctic Ringed Seals ANCHORAGE, Alaska The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit today upheld federal Endangered Species Act protection for ringed seals, Arctic ice seals threatened by climate change. Todays ruling reverses a 2016 lower court decision that rejected the listing as speculative, finding that the listing is based on the best available science documenting the widespread loss of the sea-ice habitat the species needs to survive. The Center for Biological Diversity originally petitioned to list the species in 2008, and the National Marine Fisheries Service listed the species as threatened in 2012. The oil industry, the state of Alaska and others challenged the listing rule in federal court in Alaska, and the Center intervened to defend the listing. This major victory gives ringed seals vital protections in the face of climate change and melting sea ice, said Kristen Monsell, a Center attorney who argued the case. The decision underscores the recklessness of the Trump administrations proposal to open up the Arctic Ocean to oil drilling. Ringed seals have a shot at survival thanks to the Endangered Species Act, but only if we rapidly reduce the greenhouse pollution destroying their habitat. Todays decision from the 9th Circuit relies heavily on its 2016 decision upholding Endangered Species Act protections for bearded seals  another Arctic ice species threatened by climate change. The court found that, as with the bearded seal, climate change models from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change show that ringed seal habitat is diminishing as sea ice recedes and reasonably suppor[t] the determination that a species reliant on sea ice likely would become endangered in the foreseeable future. Ringed seals give birth in snow caves built on top of the sea ice. Global warming is reducing the amount of snowpack there, causing caves to collapse and leaving pups vulnerable to death by freezing or from predators. Endangered Species Act listing of ringed seals offers them increased protection against the greenhouse gas emissions that are driving climate change, as well as oil and gas development. It also requires the federal government to designate critical habitat to protect the species most essential habitat areas. Listing of the seals does not affect subsistence harvest of the species by Alaska natives.12 February 2018

Theofanis Michailidis By

Appeared in BioNews 937

Lyle Hillyard of the Utah state Senate is seeking to overturn legislation giving legal protection to parties involved in surrogacy agreements, to prevent it being used by same-sex couples.

The 2005 legislation  which Hillyard sponsored  allowed married couples to enter court-approved contracts with surrogates, where the parties agree that upon birth of the child legal parenthood will pass to the intended parents.

'Gay marriage was not an issue' when the law was passed, Senator Hillyard said, but recently the legislation has been challenged on that front.

In a case which has now reached the Utah Supreme Court, a male same-sex couple is testing the requirement for 'mothers' to prove they are medically unable to bear a child (see BioNews 918). Lawyers for the couple argue that this discriminates against couples where neither member is female, which 'violates the due process and equal protection clauses of the US Constitution, as well as the uniform operation of law clause in the Utah Constitution', according to court papers.

Senator Hillyard argues that judges are wrong to interpret the law to include gay couples and that the intention was that the legislation should only apply within traditional marriage, which is why the intended parties are narrowly defined as a husband and wife.

'Some of my colleagues voted for the bill only on my agreement that if the court or people started doing things other than specifically outlined in this bill, I would seek to have it repealed, and that's what I'm doing here,' said Hillyard.

If Hillyard is successful, surrogacy will not become illegal in Utah, but courts will no longer be able to approve contracts between parties, meaning that legal protections are lost. This could result in couples having to adopt their children, and surrogates being left with unwanted legal responsibilities for the children they have carried.

Many surrogacy advocates attended the bill's hearing in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on 7 February. All the speakers except Hillyard want the current legislation to remain, and many wanted to see it be amended to be more inclusive.

Abby Cox, who acted as surrogate for her sister-in-law, told the committee: 'Families have gone through more than we can imagine to get to the point of contemplating surrogacy. To not allow them that protection, to be able to have that going forward, I think would be a huge mistake.'

Hillyard responded: 'I don't think there's anyone who thinks all surrogate births are wrong We just need to make sure the law is written in a way that only allows surrogate births under specific circumstances. We need to stop selling babies.'12 February 2018

Shaoni Bhattacharya By

Appeared in BioNews 937

Baroness Mary Warnock, patron of the Progress Educational Trust (PET), which publishes BioNews, is to be awarded a major international prize for her work in bioethics.

The Dan David Prize rewards research and achievements that have 'an outstanding scientific, technological, cultural or social impact on our world'.

Given by the Dan David Foundation, headquartered at Tel Aviv University in Israel, there are three annual prizes of US$1 million each in categories stipulated by time: 'Past, Present and Future'.

Baroness Warnock wins an award in the 'Present' category, said an announcement by the foundation, 'for her leading role in the development of practical bioethics and specifically for her progressive and unparalleled contribution to the ethics of embryology and genetics and their ethical and philosophical implication, reproductive technologies, and disability studies'.

It added: 'Dame Mary helped to enhance the welfare of society by breaking the boundaries between academic and enacted ethics.'

This is the first time in the prize's 17-year history, that it has been awarded for bioethics. Baroness Warnock shares the 'Present' bioethics prize with Professor Ezekiel Emanuel at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, US, and Professor Jonathan Glover at King's College London, UK.

The prizewinners for the 'Future' category in 2018 are awarded in the field of personalised medicine and include Professor Mary-Claire King at the University of Washington in Seattle for her 'game-changing discovery' of the BRCA1 gene for breast and ovarian cancer. The 'Past' category this year honours experts in the field of history of science.

The award ceremony will take place in May at the University of Tel Aviv.12 February 2018

Appeared in BioNews 937

The problem of fertility preservation for girls and women undergoing cancer treatments has been a subject of research for many decades. The recent study by McLaughlin and colleagues from Professor Evelyn Telfer's lab at the University of Edinburgh, UK, is aimed at finding a solution to this problem, with the claim that they have produced mature human egg cells in the lab for the first time (see this week's BioNews story).

Egg cells or oocytes begin their development in the ovary as a small cell contained within a single layer of granulosa cells, together making up a 'primordial follicle'. For these to develop to a stage when they can be fertilised requires a period of growth of the oocyte (from 15 to about 100 micrometres) and development of a multi-layered and complex follicle, which after puberty usually takes a minimum of about four weeks. This is then followed by a phase referred to as maturation when the fully-grown oocyte completes the first meiotic cell division (MI) and divides asymmetrically to give a large MII oocyte and a very small first polar body, which usually dies within a day and does not contribute to any subsequent development of an embryo.

In vitro maturation (IVM) to go from a fully-grown to an MII oocyte is already a fairly common procedure (although still formally an experimental one), sometimes for cancer patients, but also for other cases where standard IVF procedures are difficult, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The use of this technique has led to many hundreds of apparently healthy babies. Therefore, for women who have fully grown and/or mature oocytes (eggs), it is now possible to freeze these, thaw them and carry out IVF. It is also possible to freeze pieces of ovary and then to thaw and graft these back to the ovary (or a nearby site) after cancer treatment. Care has to be taken with the latter approach, however, in case the ovary tissue contains some cancer cells, which is likely if the cancer is, for example, a leukaemia or there has been metastasis.

For prepubertal girls, however, they will not have any fully-grown oocytes; indeed they will almost all be at the primordial follicle stage. This McLaughlin et al. paper claims to have developed a method for growing and maturing these all the way through to oocytes that might be capable of being fertilised (metaphase II, or MII). Despite considerable effort form several labs, this had been done previously only in the mouse, with the first demonstration some 20 years ago, and with substantial improvements made in following years.

Nevertheless, several of the steps had already been achieved with human material, notably going from primordial follicles to secondary (multi-laminar) follicles and from secondary follicles to MII oocytes, so the novel aspect of this current work is to have joined these into one continuous process.

However, there are several problems. It was really quite inefficient, with perhaps 385 early follicles (of which about 80 percent were primordial) giving 87 secondary follicles suitable for the second stage culture method. Of these, 54 developed a typical fluid-filled cavity suggesting that they were progressing normally, but of these, only 32 gave fully grown oocytes. These were then transferred to typical IVM conditions. However, only nine gave rise eventually to mature fully-grown MII oocytes.

Critically, the pieces of ovarian tissue that the authors began with were not from prepubertal girls, but were biopsies from adult women, which clearly contained some follicles that had already begun to develop. The authors can't be certain that the ones that did make it to fully-grown MII oocytes actually arose from primordial follicles; they could have developed from later stage 'primary follicles' or even some of the already growing secondary oocytes present in the original tissue. The timing from beginning to end was also relatively fast compared with what is thought to happen in vivo, which could suggest that the mature oocytes were indeed not coming from primordial follicles. If they did originate from primordial follicles, their development may have been too fast, then this might lead to abnormal oocytes.

The characterisation of the oocytes obtained was rather minimal, but it was very obvious that they were not quite right. Usually, when the fully-grown oocyte divides to give rise to an MII oocyte, this is a very asymmetric cell division producing the large oocyte and a very small 'first polar body'. The latter contains a nucleus, but has too little cytoplasm to support its survival for long. However, the 'polar bodies' associated with the MII oocytes in this paper were very large. (The first meiotic cell division had not been sufficiently asymmetric.) In addition to suggesting that the oocytes had not developed normally, these large polar bodies could probably survive for longer and may even be capable of being fertilised.

If both the oocyte and the polar body are fertilised (by separate sperm) this can lead to the development of a mosaic individual, composed of cells with two distinct genotypes. ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) could be used to fertilise just the larger cell, but this will be smaller than normal, and it would be necessary to know that it wasn't deficient in some way. The large 'polar body' might also interfere with development of any embryo.

Moreover, although the authors showed evidence for a spindle (the cellular structure on which the MII chromosomes line up, moving to opposite ends of the cell when it divides in two), they did not check to see if there were any problems with the chromosome and their subsequent segregation. They did not see if the oocytes could be fertilised, which would have required an HFEA (Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority) licence, or ask what would happen if they were activated. All the final IVM steps have been done before to yield normal fertilisable eggs that have given children, so the fact that the oocytes in this study were abnormal suggests that there were problems with the steps that were used to promote the early in vitro growth.

Finally, for clarification, this work is not describing the development of mature oocytes all the way from pluripotent stem cells in vitro. It is beginning with small oocytes that are already enclosed in follicles that have been obtained from adult ovaries. In this respect it is also not clear whether the methods will be of use for the purpose of allowing fertility preservation from stored ovarian tissue obtained from prepubertal girls prior to cancer treatments, which is one of the main justifications for the research. The follicles in prepubertal ovaries will be at an early stage, not yet primed for growth, and perhaps quite different from those in an adult.The term 'customer engagement' is arguably one of the biggest buzzwords in today's business landscape. It's so widely used that when many people hear the phrase, they interpret it as a checkbox item. It is, however, an ongoing crucial relationship between a company and its customers, which is determined by the customer's preferences and behaviour.In the wake of his #Peoplekind comment, a joke that "didn't play well out of context", The Evening Standard has provided a lookback on Trudeau's push for gender equality.

One of many #Peoplekind memes that sprang up across the web. Image   Stock Sheiki on Twitter

We like to say peoplekind, not necessarily mankind, because its more inclusive.

"We like to say Peoplekind."



Um, who exactly is this royal WE?



Radical feminists? Leftist ideologues? Deranged SJWs?





Trudeau is a living meme. pic.twitter.com/rWTojs8QeN

 Candice Malcolm (@CandiceMalcolm) February 7, 2018



Neil Armstrong 1969:



Thats one small step for people, and one giant leap for peoplekind. pic.twitter.com/T31I4Vt03y

 DANGEROUS TROLL  (@Dangerous_Troll) February 7, 2018



Princess Trudeau is offended by the word mankind and wants people to use peoplekind instead.



A made up word... At least go with humankind you dumb fool.



I also heard he plans on changing Manitoba to Peopletoba.



Sorry for your culture-loss, Canada.

 Educating Liberals (@Education4Libs) February 7, 2018







Not content with being an embarrassment to Canadians, #Trudeau is now an embarrassment to all #mankind.https://t.co/Ka39Gp6QIG

 Pat Condell (@patcondell) February 7, 2018



If Ridiculing a Woman is #Misogyny, then why isn't Ridiculing a Man #Misandry?



Aren't people being too Intolerant towards Puns aimed at Women; while being OK with them, when Men are at the receiving end?



Where's the God Damn Equality? Huh!!#RenukaChowdhury#RenukaChaudhary

 Jagrati Shukla (@JagratiShukla29) February 8, 2018



The US-right-wing pile-on re Trudeau's "peoplekind" is pretty misleading.



He was lightly ribbing a woman who was rambling about the power of women, "God the Mother," and how the world needs womanly love. Fox excluded her response to him: "There you go, exactly. Yes. Thank you." pic.twitter.com/Wl4QIumWrA

 Daniel Dale (@ddale8) February 6, 2018



SOUTH AFRICA [TrendTalk] 2015 was a hairy year

PM on peoplekind: its a little reminder to me that I shouldnt be making jokes even when I think theyre funny #cdnpoli pic.twitter.com/MWK27BxlOl

 Vassy Kapelos (@VassyKapelos) February 7, 2018



#MeToo, #TimesUp, the Womens March; these movements tell us that we need to have a critical discussion on womens rights, equality and power dynamics of gender.

Trudeau's California itinerary tomorrow/Friday: "diversity and equality roundtable" with tech-biz leaders; meetings with the CEOs of Amazon, eBay, AppDirect, Amgen; meetings with California Gov. Brown and Lt. Gov Newsom; speech at the Reagan presidential library.

 Daniel Dale (@ddale8) February 7, 2018



Paying the price for years of inequality

The Bank of Canada recognizes #ViolaDesmond for her pioneering human rights actions. See her on our next $10 bank note. #blackhistorymonth https://t.co/YYlzdGLR0A pic.twitter.com/JrNmfLt9hm

 BoC Museum (@BoCMuseum) February 1, 2018



Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is often applauded for his inclusive policies and forward-thinking approach in a world of patriarchal bureaucracy and upheld as the ideal in the face of the Trumps of the world.But it was Trudeaus turn under the Twitter firing line as a 'fake feminist' when he interrupted a woman asking a question at a town hall event in Edmonton, Canada last Friday and suggested:Canadas Global News reports that Piers Morgan himself, who made headlines for announcing he's leaving Good Morning Britain and heading State-side, just days after a TV interview with Trump in Davos - Trump's first international one, according to The Sun - sarcastically wrote about the #Peoplekind remark the following day, saying: Mankind ended last night.Then, deputy Tory leader Lisa Raitt urging the prime minister to person up in an exchange in the House of Commons.Thats all it took to catch on in the Twittersphere. Cue the combined internets mirth, outrage and witty words.Reaction went above and beyond this though, with some commenting on different tolerance for puns aimed at men and women.According to the Evening Standard , the comment was not taken lightly. Some thought he was "mansplaining," some felt he was serious and politically correct, while others came to Trudeau's defence saying the comment was taken out of context.Light-hearted sarcasm for the win, especially as Evening Standard reports gender equality has long been top of Trudeaus list, having appointed a half-female cabinet  a step that has so far never taken place in countries such as the UK, the United States or Australia  he explained: "Because it's 2015." This resonated so strongly here in South Africa that we made it our quote of the year for 2015.Trudeau took note and apologised in Ottawa this Wednesday for what he dubbed as his dumb joke that went viral and didnt play well out of context.But the year is young, and all indications are that Trudeau will bounce back from this unscathed. For example, Trudeau spoke up on steps towards equality at Davos earlier this year, stating:He also regularly holds roundtables on the importance of diversity and equality and weaves the topics into the conversation: Evening Standard points out he vowed to finally put a woman on Canadian banknotes back in 2016, and when new banknotes go into circulation later this year, black civil rights activist Viola Desmond will appear on the Canadian $10 bill.Desmond challenged racial segregation in Canada as far back as 1946 when she refused to leave a whites only area of the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia.Thats what I call putting your money where your mouth is  literally.The Gauteng provincial government's resistance to paying constitutional damages to the families who lost their loved ones in the Life Esidimeni tragedy, may be tied to the fear of accepting greater responsibility.

This follows a 2015 Gauteng health department decision to place almost 1700 former Life Esidimeni mental health patients in the care of deadly NGOs. While 144 have since died, a further 12 remain missing The Constitution is so detailed and comprehensive that [the states] liability will be increased, [if Constitutional damages are awarded], says Penelope Andrews, dean of the University of Cape Towns (UCT) law faculty.This week, Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke, heard closing arguments in the Life Esidimeni arbitration . Family and state advocates reached a speedy agreement to ensure that the Gauteng provincial government pay families R20 000 each to cover the funeral costs of burying their loved ones and a further R180 000 in psychological damages. Public interest law organisation Section27 has welcomed the arrangement.But families are also asking for R1.5 million in constitutional damages, in addition to the R200 000 per patient, because that is the amount the state would have spent on patients had they not been placed with ill-equipped and often unlicensed NGOs.The Life Esidimeni arbitration is the first time in South African history that constitutional damages have been sought for the violation of mental health care patients rights, says Advocate Adila Hassim who is representing 63 families on behalf of Section27.People can claim constitutional damages when a government official has violated their constitutional rights such as the right to health, life or equality, according to Andrews.To successfully claim for such damages, advocates must show that there is no alternative way to obtain redress for human right violations under common law, Andrews explains. It requires the plaintiff to show something much more than negligence (by the state), for example, but almost reckless disregard.Andrews says that to win constitutional damages, plaintiffs do not have to show physical harm but could instead argue that officials' actions diminished their dignity.Typically in medico-legal cases , damages for medical injuries such as psychological damages would be calculated on expected treatment costs put forth by experts. The fact that this type of evidence was not argued in arbitration may have signalled a certain willingness by the state to pay up for the mental anguish families have suffered.But state advocates were quick to contest the R1.5 million for constitutional damages sought by family legal representatives on Friday.State advocate Tebogo Hutamo argued Life Esidimeni families were not entitled to make this claim because it was the rights of their loved ones  and not theirs  that suffered directly as a result of Gauteng health departments decision to remove patients from Life Esidimeni care.Families should be compensated for trauma and shock but not for the trauma the deceased went through as a result of the implementation of the project, Hutamo said.Moseneke asked Hutamo if he was suggesting that the arbitration ignore all the constitutional breaches against the deceased and only consider that of the family members?Hutamo said yes and added that the provincial government could not afford to pay what could ultimately amount to more than R20-million to families.Its a bit rich, Moseneke pointed out, for the state to complain about finances. In January, Gauteng finance MEC Barbara Creecy testified that the health department had spent more than R90-million on private consultants even as it ended its long-standing contract with Life Esidimeni to save R250-million.Moseneke holds the final say over how much families will receive and is expected to make his announcement in early March.If they are successful in their claim for Constitutional damages, families plan to donate part of this money to help other state mental health patients. As part of this weeks deal, a memorial to the victims will also be built.Meanwhile, Hassim says the arbitrations biggest question remains a mystery: Why the Gauteng health department chose to remove patients from Life Esidimenis care.We stand here today without answers.A new study is raising concern that more children infected with HIV are dying early in hospitals in spite of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) being available, blaming delayed diagnosis among this pool of patients for the problem.

Recovery

Deaths

No survival benefit

The findings published in thereveal that ART has not helped increase chances of survival for hospitalised children.The scientists observed that HIV infection in most is only known when they are admitted to hospitals, an indication that there has been little or no focus for routine checks for status among children."Many HIV-infected children in sub-Saharan Africa are frequently diagnosed during hospitalisation for an acute co-infection and experience high early mortality," it stated.It also stated that anti-retroviral therapy among hospitalised HIV-infected children might not speed up recovery and may in fact inhibit immune regeneration.The study was conducted in four hospitals in Kenya - Kenyatta National Hospital and Mbagathi District Hospital in Nairobi and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital and Kisumu County Hospital in Nyanza between April 2013 and November 2015.The research was done on 191 (76%) out of the 250 hospitalised HIV-infected children in the hospitals. They were aged between 0-12 years.Of these, 181 children were randomly enrolled, 90 to urgent anti-retroviral therapy (done within 48 hours of enrolment) and 91 to post-stabilisation ART (done 7-14 days after enrolment).Overall, almost a quarter (21 percent) of children died in the first three months.Eighteen (10%) of 181 children died in the first week. 12 (13%) of 90 children died in the urgent ART group and six (7%) of 91 children died in the post-stabilisation group.Most of the deaths of the children occurred in the first month and dropped strikingly between one month and three months.No deaths occurred between three months and six months after ART initiation."Overall it was observed that there was a high mortality rate in the first few weeks after ART initiation, with more than 80% of deaths occurring in the first month and all deaths occurring within three months," said the study.Results show that speeding up anti-retroviral therapy during hospitalisation does not have any survival benefit."Though rapid HIV diagnosis within one day of enrollment was practised at the four hospital sites, ART initiated within 48 hours did not reduce mortality when compared with ART initiated between seven days and 14 days," the research revealed.A previous study in Kenya showed that 41% of hospitalised infants died before ART initiation at the average of 11 days after diagnosis, suggesting a narrow window for intervention in children.Researchers in that study also found no survival benefit of initiating ART within seven days compared with 21 days in a hospitalised paediatric unit."Together, these studies suggest that waiting for more than 21 days might be too late while expediting to less than seven days might not provide survival benefit," said the study.Techsys Digital has proven its ability to produce results for top brands in the alcohol category, with a client portfolio that includes powerhouses Heineken SA and Diageo.

Now the Cape Town-based agency can add one of South Africas most respected wine and spirits producers, having been awarded the full breadth of digital and CRM for top KWV brands Roodeberg, KWV Classic, Cathedral and KWV Wine Emporium.KWV is present in over 100 markets globally, renowned for exceptional brands and product innovation. Its an honour to work with such a highly celebrated international brand, says Andrew Walmsley, MD of Techsys Digital.Part of KWVs enduring appeal is its foundation in tradition, while simultaneously innovating for the contemporary consumer. It makes sense that the 100-year-old alcohol producer sees an ideal fit with Techsys Digital, known for keeping ahead of trends in the digital marketing sphere.As Walmsley notes, Each of the four KWV brands awarded to Techsys enjoy a long heritage and have remained relevant due to an unwavering ability to evolve. Its exciting to be on this journey with KWV as they embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution.Across social media, web and mobile development, CRM and paid media, Techsys can leverage its strength in the digital space to produce impressive outcomes. KWV Marketing Executive Liandra Kotze commented KWV is celebrating its 100-year anniversary this year and we are excited about partnering with Techsys who are experts in digital engagement, to help blend our quality heritage with cutting edge digital technology and CRM innovation strategies.With Chinese New Year celebrations just around the corner, millions of people will be tucking into a mountain of tasty seafood delicacies very soon - much of it plucked illegally from South African marine waters.

Sunanta Boonkamonsawat via 123RF

A special investigation published on Friday concludes that nearly two-thirds of dried abalone shipments to Hong Kong are harvested illegally in South Africa, before being shifted via a complex variety of smuggling routes that snake northwards up the continent as far as Central and East Africa.The South African abalone species, which looks a bit like a mushroom with furry edges, is one of several large sea snail varieties that have been popular in Cantonese cuisine since the Zhou dynasty (1122 to 256 BC).A report published in Hong Kong by the global wildlife trade monitoring group Traffic suggests that abalone (perlemoen) poaching in South Africa has escalated in recent years to the point where 65% of local abalone was illegally sourced and trafficked, compared to the 35% that was legally wild-caught or produced through aquaculture operations."Abalone is one of the most prized items in Cantonese cuisine - a must-have on celebratory banquet menus," says Wilson Lau, author of the latest Traffic assessment...Litigation and adversarial relationships are threatening to paralyse the South African mining industry. There is a need for a fresh approach to find pragmatic solutions and unlock the sector's potential.

Mining Charter

Obvious candidate

Silicosis case

Mining has long been a mainstay of the economy, but its relative size has reduced in recent years. Mining and quarrying currently contribute less than 10% of the GDP, although a significant proportion of our foreign exchange earnings still come from the sector.Perhaps because of its historical significance, and the recent commodity cycle boom, there are many contentious issues affecting the mining industry that remain unresolved.The Mining Charter is perhaps chief among these. Its implementation has been suspended pending a court challenge, where the Chamber of Mines, representing our countrys mineral producers, believes Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane overstepped his authority in imposing new charter terms at the last minute in the face of objections from the industry, and with little consultation.After two years of work on the new charter, with the case now in the courts and no engagement between the chamber and government, it is fair to say that the relationship between the minister and the industry has broken down.Aside from the Mining Charter, the industry remains extremely heavily regulated. There are onerous  and contentious  regulations governing exploration permits; mining authorisations; tax; royalties; labour relations; health and safety; community relations; environmental issues; as well as rehabilitation.Many of these issues are currently mired in disputes and legal challenges that waste the time and resources of the mining sector as well as government.While a document like the Mining Charter is meant to resolve disagreement and map a way forward, it has in fact polarised stakeholders.There is an urgent need for a fresh start on mining, with an eye to securing a new deal for the sector. What we need is a political solution, not an adversarial legal one.One approach might be for a new player, with enough cachet in government, business and labour to broker a deal. One could identify the main points of disagreement, then establish an inter-ministerial task team with the power to call a moratorium on legal challenges and try to negotiate.The obvious candidate to do this is deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa. He has the respect of business and knowledge of the industry from almost a decade leading the National Union of Mineworkers.Ramaphosa has also expressed sentiments along these lines. He wrote in Business Day of the need for, a new deal capable of unleashing the countrys competitive and entrepreneurial energies.During the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, he said that, The Mining Charter is going to be thoroughly discussed with key role players so that we find a solution that will unlock our mining... If the Mining Charter is holding us back, then we must deal with it and find commonality of purpose and views with potential investors.These encouraging words point to a renewed urge to find pragmatic solutions in the broader social interest. It would be great to see someone in government championing this approach, and it seems the deputy president himself could be that person. I would not be the first person to suggest this.Such a political resolution is not without precedent. The silicosis case brought by thousands of miners against South African gold mines also seems to have been solved by negotiation. That case was headed for the Constitutional Court. Fortunately, the parties are close to reaching an out-of-court settlement and the case has been postponed until further notice.Narrow political or populist agendas need to be put aside. Pragmatism is required to overcome the legal stasis that we find ourselves in - and the silicosis cases shows this is possible.A negotiated solution could be something that is realistic from businesss point of view, but with aspirational transformational goals for the sector. The ultimate goal is a productive, profitable mining industry that can enhance inclusive growth for all stakeholders.DIVO - Villagers in central Ivory Coast are savouring a rare victory after reaching a deal with a Canadian gold mine operator following a four-year battle for compensation that at times turned violent.

Agbaou gold mine. Photo: Endeavour Mining

Since it began operating in 2014, the Agbaou gold mine -- which covers an area of 334km, or nearly 10 times that of New York's Central Park - has been hit by demonstrations by local people angered that they had not received money for the loss of lands used for agriculture.Protesters staged a string of activities that braked activity at the mine, an open-cast facility run by Endeavour Mining that extracts around three tonnes of gold per year.With the authorities keen to develop the mining sector, the standoff eventually led to talks which culminated in a deal.Under it, the mine agreed to offer employment to around 100 young people and pay out an unspecified sum."I am happy," said Allalo Grah Jephte, a representative for the youth of Agbaou, which lies about 200km northwest of the coastal city of Abidjan, Ivory Coast's economic capital.The dispute arose when work began on the mine in 2012. When the site became operational two years later, it sparked demonstrations which at times turned violent with locals frequently blocking access to the site.The deadlock cost the company $1.12m annually, Endeavour said.In its defence, it said it had paid out a total of 6.7bn CFA francs in compensation over the previous five years, earmarked to more than 1,100 farmers and landowners.The remaining 1.5 million was given to a local development committee to finance roads, education and health infrastructure, Endeavour said.But local residents say they never saw a penny of this money - and their resentment quickly turned into protest.In order to draw a line under the standoff, Endeavour Mining and its affiliates working at Agbaou and another mine in the western village of Ity held two days of talks involving the local authorities, traditional elders and groups representing women and young people.According to the document outlining details of the agreement, both sides agreed to "end all forms of violence and intimidation" through the establishment of a mechanism "for direct communication in order to identify possible crises and tensions between the mines and local stakeholders"."It's a first, we want to develop a social dialogue... which aims to avoid misunderstandings and conduct likely to block... the mine's activity," said Daniel Yai, who heads Endeavour's operations in Ivory Coast."Blocking the mines creates problems for everyone."Although Endeavour did not comment on the specifics of the deal, Jephte said the firm had agreed to take on and train around 100 local youths.Further financial payouts are also included in the deal, but the sum has not been disclosed.Until now, residents from the Agbaou area have only made up about a third of the 900 or so people employed directly or indirectly by the mine, company figures show.Last year, Jephte spent six months in prison along with two others for allegedly instigating the protests, a charge they deny.The new consultation framework would help bring about "the training of young people to work in the mines," he said.Koffi Amenan, who heads the local women's association, also welcomed the plans to offer much-needed employment to the area's youngsters."Because the mine took over our agricultural land, we don't have any more farming jobs," she said.Industrial production of gold in Ivory Coast reached 25 tonnes in 2017, up two percent on the previous year, government figures show but further promising deposits are still in development.In a country where cocoa remains the main export commodity, the mining industry accounts for just three percent of gross domestic product today.President Alassane Ouattara wants to exploit the country's huge mining potential, and although only gold and manganese are industrially produced, there are also deposits of iron, nickel, bauxite and copper in its soil.In a big step towards cleaner seas and safer navigation, countries agreed on a set of draft Voluntary Guidelines on Marking Fishing Gear. When abandoned, lost or discarded at sea, fishing gear, made predominantly of plastic, forms a significant component of marine debris. Approximately eight million tonnes of plastic litter end up in our oceans every year, 10% of which is estimated to come from the fisheries sector.

2554813 via pixabay

Unacceptable levels of plastics in oceans

Dangerous fishing nets

Building capacity to meet new standards

It is expected that the guidelines will receive final endorsement by FAO's Committee on Fisheries (COFI) in July 2018. These guidelines will help countries to develop effective systems for marking fishing gear so that it can be traced back to its original owner. Doing so will support efforts to reduce marine debris and its harmful impacts on the marine environment, fish stocks, and safe navigation. It will also allow local authorities to monitor how fishing gear is being used in their waters and who is using it, which makes them an efficient tool in the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing."Appropriate marking is an effective tool for improving overall fishing gear management, preventing abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear, facilitating its retrieval and potentially identifying illegal fishing operations", said Arni M. Mathiesen, FAO assistant director-general for Fisheries.Fishing gear is often lost through uncontrollable circumstances - such as storms or accidents - or because there are no adequate facilities at ports for the reception of fishing gear. However, sometimes fishing gear is also dumped by vessels engaged in illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the hope of evading detection.Over time, fishing nets left in the ocean may break down into microplastic pieces, which become accessible to a wide range of organisms including small fish and plankton, and may cause serious toxicological harm to marine wildlife.Considering the unacceptable levels of fishing gear debris in oceans, the global fishing industry and governments have recognised the urgency to address the issue across all relevant sectors, including the environment, fishery management and regulation.Abandoned, lost or discarded gear can continue to "ghost fish" even when it is no longer under the control of humans. This can have serious detrimental impacts on fish and other marine organisms that become entangled in these nets, often unable to escape.Ghost gear poses serious safety concerns to navigation too. Recent studies in the Republic of Korea indicate increased incidences of ships' propellers becoming entangled in abandoned fishing gear. Some of these incidents have led to serious accidents, including the capsizing of a passenger ship where 292 people lost their lives.The guidelines are global in scope, but countries recognise that making them work for small-scale fisheries in developing countries will require additional support to meet the new standards. For example, ports in many countries still do not include reception facilities for disposing of fishing gear. In other cases, where port reception facilities exist they are not free of charge and small-scale fisheries cannot afford using them.Modern technologies such as satellite buoys or GPS receivers make it easier to detect the lost fishing gear but it could be too expensive for the majority of small-scale fisheries to remove them.The guidelines make it clear that the level of complexity of the gear marking should be based upon local conditions and needs. FAO has already started a number of pilot projects to address these issues.In Indonesia , for example, FAO works alongside the Indonesian government and partners in the Global Ghost Gear Initiative, to introduce fishing gear marking in small-scale fisheries communities. The project works directly with local fishing collectives using gill nets, which are a very high-risk gear type for marine debris. Initial feedback from the communities participating in this pilot project has been positive, as gear marking is viewed as an effective tool in achieving better fisheries management that benefits the communities.The battle between property group Resilient and a previously anonymous short seller, identified as 36One Asset Management, looks set to heat up considerably this week as the JSE announced it was investigating recent trading of the shares in the Resilient stable.

The JSE announcement follows the release of a damning anonymous 50-page report into Resilient and its related property firms, Fortress REIT, NEPI Rockcastle and Greenbay Properties. The report was circulating widely in the investor community on Friday, 9 February, with one investor describing it as an "apparently well-researched report that could have potentially devastating consequences".The report's primary conclusion is that the premium valuation of each of the companies in the Resilient stable "did not arise from normal market activity, but from deliberate and frequently concealed actions by some of the influential owners and key management of the group".At the market close on Friday Resilient issued a stock exchange announcement referring to the report and noting it had been published and disseminated anonymously."But authorship of it has been confirmed by 36One Asset Management, who are said to have a large short position on companies identified in the report," Resilient said.It added the report and its dissemination followed a campaign of "rumour and innuendo" undertaken against the Resilient companies since early January when short selling of the company's shares became evident."36One did not seek the company's response to any of the content of the report," said Resilient, adding that the publication of the report provided the first opportunity to respond to written allegations as opposed to rumour and innuendo.Resilient will make a further announcement on Monday and meanwhile advises shareholders to exercise caution.The property group has been battling against a significant change in market sentiment since early January 2018 with widespread speculation it was set to be the target of a Viceroy report and accompanying shortselling activities.Despite directors buying substantial volumes of shares in recent weeks, bringing forward the release of interim results and regularly refuting market-based allegations, the share prices have remained under pressure.On Friday, Resilient closed 2.2% weaker at R108. It had reached a record high of R151.16 as recently as 29 December 2017, following its inclusion in the JSE Top 40 index.Analysts have previously attributed the share price premium to the underlying book value of the four firms and to the quality of the underlying assets and the deal-making and management skills of the executive team headed by Des de Beer. But the 36One report contends the premium valuation is considerably steeper than the market assumes.It makes the damning claim that the exceptionally high valuation of the shares "arose from insider-directed and insider-related transactions in group companies' shares to deliberately inflate share prices and volumes traded. Once this was achieved, third-party investors quickly became enticed by the attractive dividend growth rates on offer and became vested in the continuation of the cycle themselves."Development experts and political leaders agree that Africa's enormous agricultural potential, if tapped, can feed the continent and spur socio-economic growth.

Ambitious talk

Large-scale farms

Maputo declaration

The Tanzanian model

In its 20162025 strategy for agricultural transformation in Africa, the African Development Bank (AfDB) advises governments to empower smallholder farmers to sustainably and profitably produce more food and achieve a food-secure continent. That means strengthening the bargaining power of small-scale farmers and giving them access to improved soil that will increase yields, fertiliser and markets to enhance their incomes and well-being.At a ministerial roundtable in the margins of the 2016 Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Conference in Seoul, South Korea, AfDBs president Akinwumi Adesina said, To achieve food sufficiency and turn the continent into a net food exporter, Africa must empower smallholder farmers, who constitute 70% of the population and produce 80% of the food consumed in the continent.Bukar Tijani, the assistant director-general and regional representative for Africa at the UNs Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), reinforces that the key to Africas food security lies in the smallholder farmer.Africa is home to more than half of the worlds unused arable land, but the continent remains food insecure with millions of people experiencing chronic hunger and facing famine, according to the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), an organisation that provides support to small-scale farmers, in its Africa Agriculture Status Report 2017 In addition to helping smallholder farmers, governments and other stakeholders need to look at ways of empowering youth with knowledge, skills and other resources. According to Agnes Kalibata, the president of AGRA, it is important to invest in modern technologies and give the youth and women more resources to venture into productive agriculture.For Alex Awiti, the director at the East African Institute, a policy research organisation, the key to food security is to develop policies and strategies that address the needs of smallholder farmers. Agricultural policies are not in short supply on the continent; the problem has always been the implementation of policies. Improving agricultural productivity is a complex public policy problem - it is influenced by a number of complex socio-economic and political factors, says Awiti.Factors inhibiting smallholder farmers include the ineffective application of fertilisers. Farmers do not use fertiliser deep placement (FDP), which increases yield. In addition, good-quality seeds and fertilisers are often difficult to come by and unaffordable to smallholder farmers even when they can be found. All of this often leads to low agricultural productivity.Fertiliser use in smallholder farms in Africa is 13 to 20 kilogrammes per hectare. This is about a tenth of the global average, explains Awiti.Despite the obvious socio-economic benefits of investing in small-scale farming, African governments prefer to focus on large-scale commercial farms, due to the perceived difficulty of dealing with tens of thousands of smallholder farmers.Awiti says that a lack of fertilisers, a weak value chain and production losses during storage and distribution stages destroy agricultural economies and demotivate smallholder farmers who lack basic storage and processing facilities and technical knowledge. When smallholder farmers can produce more without fear that their yields will be wasted, the agricultural sector will grow.Many smallholder farmers in Ghana farm on poor and degraded soils and lack access to affordable and appropriate inputs, including quality seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, says Kofi Yeboah, a young Ghanaian entrepreneur. These farmers are now calling on their government to subsidise the prohibitive costs of fertilisers.A small group of Ghanaian companies import fertilisers to the country and further negotiate with the government to set prices. Farmers in remote areas complain that fertilisers do not reach them.In South Africa, smallholder farmers do not have adequate access to research and extension services, says Mabine Seabe, who advocates for the empowerment of farmers. Worse, they lack strong negotiation skills and information about prices. All of this means that South African smallholder farmers do not receive optimal earnings for their produce. Even when farmers have the right information regarding prices, they are unable to access the big markets and are therefore compelled to sell their produce to middlemen who own distributive networks and make most of the profit.Small-scale farmers and the youth do not receive necessary funding and support from government and financial institutions due partly to high risks associated with farming, says Seabe, adding that government has been slow to enact land reforms and redistribution policies. Land reforms are a difficult issue: only Zimbabwe has implemented them, and it was a politically and racially charged undertaking.Ethiopia is facing food shortages caused by drought. Meanwhile, over 20% of the total crop yield in Ethiopia is lost to poor post-harvest handling (PHL). To address this problem in Ethiopia, Shayashone, a nonprofit organisation dealing in agricultural logistics, strategy and business model development, among other things, is supporting smallholder farmers with storage technology. Yared Sasa, the head of the organisation, says: Farmers need adequate new technology and capacity building to mitigate crop damage during storage by pests.Shayashone has partnered with Cooperatives for Change (C4C), a nonprofit international development organisation from the Netherlands, to promote in Ethiopias Oromia region the use of an improved storage bag created by the PICS (Purdue Improved Crop Storage) project.Despite multiple constraints faced by African small-scale farmers, government investment in agriculture has doubled since 2010, the Brookings Institution, a US-based nonprofit public policy organisation, reported this year. But such investments are still less than 2% of national budgetsfar below the 10% threshold African leaders agreed to invest in the sector in their Maputo Declaration in 2003. In 2017, 14 years after the Maputo Declaration, most countries have not yet met the 10% target. The few that have met the target include Ethiopia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali and Namibia.Tijani of FAO advises African governments and other investors in agriculture to raise awareness among the youth of the benefits of agriculture and how its value chains work. Young people should not engage in farming only for lack of better opportunities. They need to be aware that it is a gainful occupation, he says, adding, African youth can be powerful drivers of change to lift themselves and others out of poverty, hunger and malnutrition. Unfortunately, many dont consider agriculture a potentially lucrative venture.About 200 million Africans are between the ages of 15 and 24, and these young people are an untapped reservoir for spurring growth in the agri-food sector. Governments should give them property rights, farming and digital technologies, and other value-chain opportunities, says Awiti. This will place them at the nerve centre of agricultural e-commerce.Yara International, an organisation fighting famine globally, helped create the Southern Agricultural Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT), an ambitious government-led public-private initiative aiming to revitalize 300,000 square kilometres of arable land. The initiative is expected to boost the incomes of thousands of farmers.Over the last decade, the Tanzanian government has encouraged investment in commercial rice, sugar and maize farming and processing facilities. This created ready markets for produce, as government targets, supports and links rice farmers to the market, says James Craske, Yaras country manager in Kenya.Already the anticipated increase in productivity has triggered a demand for more fertilisers. To meet such demand, Yara set up a $26m fertiliser terminal in the capital, Dar es Salaam, even as the organisation and Tanzanias government is working with local banks to provide financing for farmers. The model will create thousands of new jobs and raise incomes for millions of farmers.The Tanzanian model addresses food insecurity, youth unemployment and socio-economic exclusions. It can potentially spur rural development. However, the model has been criticized for destroying state-owned mangroves that provided food security for many citizens.Head of the Africa Progress Panel and former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan believes that Africa can close the productivity gap in the agriculture value chain. Africas smallholder farmers are more than capable of feeding the continent as long as they make use of the latest agronomic practices in combination with appropriately adapted seeds and fertilisers to boost their crop yield.The question remains: How far and how quickly are African governments willing to go to empower smallholder farmers to achieve the goal of a food-secure continent?SAN FRANCISCO, USA - Waymo and Uber announced an agreement on Friday, 9 February 2018, in the blockbuster federal lawsuit over allegedly stolen trade secrets from the former Google self-driving car project.

The surprise agreement ends a trial between the two Silicon Valley rivals competing in a race to develop autonomous cars, after four days of testimony before a federal judge in San Francisco.A source familiar with the confidential deal said Uber agreed to a financial settlement giving the Alphabet unit 0.34% of Uber shares - which would be some $244 million based on Uber's valuation of $72 billion.Uber also agreed not to use any of Waymo's technology for autonomous driving as part of the settlement, which was approved by Judge William Alsup as he dismissed the case.Waymo said in a statement: "We have reached an agreement with Uber that we believe will protect Waymo's intellectual property now and into the future. We are committed to working with Uber to make sure that each company develops its own technology."Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi said in a separate statement that "while we do not believe that any trade secrets made their way from Waymo to Uber ... we are taking steps with Waymo to ensure our Lidar and software represents just our good work."While the technical details of Waymo's case were not revealed, it was widely believed to focus on Lidar, a laser-based system which is critical to enabling autonomous cars to get a three-dimensional picture of its surroundings.The trial so far included testimony from former Uber chief executive Travis Kalanick, who denied a conspiracy to steal trade secrets in a tense two-day court appearance.Alphabet's Waymo division was seeking at least $1 billion over the theft of secrets from its self-driving car program in the trial before federal judge William Alsup.If the case had gone to the jury and Waymo had prevailed, it would have dealt a severe blow to Uber's efforts to widely deploy self-driving vehicles as part of its ridesharing operations - a field that also includes Waymo and other rivals.Waymo had alleged Uber conspired with former Google engineer Anthony Levandowski, who had been accused of downloading thousands of proprietary documents before leaving the company and ending up at Uber.Levandowski, who was on the list as a possible witness, left Google for his own startup called Otto, which was later acquired by Uber.The case hinged on Waymo's ability to show not only that Levandowski had taken Google's private source code, but that Uber had used it improperly to catch up with rivals.The jury saw evidence which was embarrassing for Uber, however, including notes from Kalanick about "cheat codes" and a text message in which he told Levandowski to "burn the village." Kalanick said, "I don't know, I don't remember."The jury was also shown a clip - sent from Levandowski to Kalanick - from the 1987 film "Wall Street" in which the Michael Douglas lead character proclaims "greed is good."Khosrowshahi said in his statement he regretted the handling of the Levandowski matter, which occurred before he took over as CEO last year."My job as Uber's CEO is to set the course for the future of the company: innovating and growing responsibly, as well as acknowledging and correcting mistakes of the past," he said."In doing so, I want to express regret for the actions that have caused me to write this letter."He added, "To our friends at Alphabet: we are partners, you are an important investor in Uber, and we share a deep belief in the power of technology to change people's lives for the better. Of course, we are also competitors."The settlement comes with Uber seeking to turn the page following a series of scandals over alleged misconduct and a cut-throat workplace culture, as new chief executive Khosrowshahi strives to prepare for a stock market debut in 2019."While I cannot erase the past, I can commit, on behalf of every Uber employee, that we will learn from it, and it will inform our actions going forward," Khosrowshahi said."I've told Alphabet that the incredible people at Uber ATG are focused on ensuring that our development represents the very best of Uber's innovation and experience in self-driving technology."Uber, which is the world's biggest ride-hailing service, is seeking to be a major player in autonomous cars and has ordered an estimated 24,000 cars from Volvo for its project set to launch in the coming years.Waymo is deploying its own self-driving rideshare program at the same time and has ordered "thousands" of vehicles from Fiat Chrysler for its service.The sector also includes most major automakers, technology platforms and ride services such as Lyft.A police operation has led to the arrest of six suspects who are thought to be behind the killings of people in Marikana, North West, five years ago, says Police Minister Fikile Mbalula.

Last night, the 10th of February 2018, police embarked on a 'Take Down' Operation where six suspects were arrested in Mooinooi, Wonderkop and Idutywa in the Eastern Cape. These suspects have been the brains behind the killings of Marikana people and surrounding areas, the Minister said on Sunday.Addressing a media briefing in Rustenburg, Minister Mbalula said the arrests are a clear indication that the police are making inroads in addressing crime while also ensuring that the long arm of the law catches up with criminals.In August 2012, several people were killed during clashes linked to the Lonmin Platinum mine strike.Sadly, the killings did not stop there, they continued away from the glare of cameras and media and spilled over to neighbouring areas of Phokeng and Mooinooi. Today we are here to report on work done by our police to bring about law and order in the area of Marikana which has been plagued by murders and attempted murders, he said.It was suspected in 2014 that there had been union rivalry as a result of the strike at Lonmin. As part of interventions at that time, the police embarked on various operations including a Platinum Belt Operation in 2014. Arrests were effected in some of the cases and suspects were convicted. However, investigations are ongoing in other cases.As an added intervention, Mine Crime Combatting Forums (MCCFs) were established country-wide at all Clusters where there are mines so as to ensure safety and security within mining communities.On Sunday, Minister Mbalula said while the police were able to effect stability in the area, cases of murder and attempted murder were reported between May and October 2017.Of these cases, nine people lost their lives while two had near death experiences.The majority of the victims were reported to have been members of the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) while one was unemployed.Of those incidents, six cases of murder were reported in Phokeng, while two cases of murder and one of attempted murder were reported in Marikana. In Mooinooi, a case of attempted murder was reported. Following a thorough investigation, three suspects were nabbed in the Mooinooi case, they have been released on bail.Minister Mbalula further announced that Anele Zonke, who was arrested in Marikana for two separate murder cases committed in Rustenburg and Marikana in July 2014, is currently serving two life terms. He, together with other accused persons, are facing another murder charge. They are due to appear in court on Monday.South Africa's leading teachers will be honoured when the 18th National Teaching Awards takes place in Johannesburg next week, the Department of Basic Education has said.

The department through the 18th National Teaching Awards will honour the selfless contributions of the nations most dedicated teachers.The awards will be held on Saturday, 17 February.Annually, the department recognises and promotes the extraordinary efforts of some of the nations most dedicated teachers while promoting and saluting excellence in the teaching profession.Through the National Teaching Awards, the department acknowledges the extraordinary efforts of teachers, often achieved under very difficult conditions and in service to children from underprivileged families and economically depressed communities, it said.The awards will recognise outstanding teaching and leadership in several categories including the Nelson Mandela Lifetime Achievement Award as well as the Professor Kader Asmal Award.The awards will be held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.While the internet houses a large number of dating sites that may well serve their purpose, there are many that abound with romance scams - especially in the lead-up to Valentine's Day.

 wrightstudio via 123RF

Any notion that you can become a successful trader in a short period of time

Any performance that seems too good to be true

Systems which claim outrageous winning percentages

Managed funds which dont disclose trading history

To be better prepared for spotting scams and ploys to trick you out of your hard-earned money be wise to the following, Fisher-French says.

People lie for gain: Dont believe everything you hear or read  especially on social media. Testimonials can be invented or paid for. Pictures can be taken next to helicopters or fancy cars  it doesnt mean they are actually owned by the people posing.

If you do not understand exactly how the scheme makes money, its because there is nothing to understand. Be alert to vague answers and if there is pressure to buy now walk away.

In the United States, this type of scam has caught the attention of the FBI which has a dedicated unit to address what it estimates to have cost in losses to the victims, more than $230 million in 2016.In South Africa there has been a significant growth in this type of scam due to the proliferation of social media sites, not necessarily those set up for dating, says Manie Van Schalkwyk, head of the South African Fraud Prevention Service.Scammers typically seek out individuals who are older than 50, either single or in difficult relationships, who are looking for romance, he says."Most victims are tech-savvy and targeted by criminal syndicates from anywhere in the world. Its not hard for these people to target the emotionally vulnerable as people reveal much about themselves on social media sites, he says.The scammer entices a prospective date with endearing messages that make the victim feel loved. This is the technique that inspires trust and leads the perpetrator to ask for a gift or money or a favour of some kind. In many situations, the person will promise a meeting, but this never materialises.Be very careful about how much personal information you share on social network sites, particularly photographs and videos as you may be setting yourself up as a target for a fraudster. Rather be safe than sorry," he says.But its not only the lonely who fall victim to scams; the vulnerable, the greedy and even the innocent are all victims of a range of online scams, he addsFinancial journalist Maya Fisher-French, says she receives many complaints about internet scams, usually around investments that offer a quick and high return on the money they ask for upfront.One of the most popular in the get rich variety is forex trading promising instant wealth and fast-tracking to new expertise.According to Google Trends, South Africa ranks as the number one nation in the world for user searches in forex trading fuelled by opportunistic scammers who expose ordinary citizens to both offline and online adverts filled with popular catchphrases like financial freedom and passive income, says Fisher-French.She says there are some alerts to look out for when exploring a forex trading training or account opening option:Another popular online scam is the 419 scam. Just having an email address can leave you exposed. A 419 email scam will make you an offer to score a large payout. You have to pay for the transaction to have the money transferred into your account. The details vary in each case and large amounts of money are usually involved says Fisher-French.Invariably, the victims banking details, as well as sums of money, are said to be required in advance to facilitate the payment of the funds. The promised money transfer never happens and the fraudsters may use the victims banking details to withdraw money for themselves.Vishing and smishing scams lure the victim by SMS or voice call. The individual pretends to be from a bank or other reputable company and gets you to disclose personal information such as your ID number, address, account number, username, login details, password and PIN. This information can also be used to gain unauthorised access to your banking account online.Van Schalkwyak says: If you have been careful and still become a victim of a scam, please report the experience to the South African Fraud Prevention Service.PARIS, France - A new glitch causing in-flight shutdowns of the Pratt & Whitney engines that power the Airbus A320neo has prompted some airlines to postpone delivery of the aircraft.

By BriYYZ from Toronto, Canada - IndiGo Airbus A320neo F-WWDG (to VT-ITI), CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51240604

"We are in discussions with the airlines and responding on a case-by-case basis," an Airbus spokesperson told AFP. "Some have decided to put off their delivery and others have not."The European aircraft manufacturer and Pratt & Whitney said that a new problem had emerged with the Geared Turbo Fan (GTF) engine whose cause was still under investigation.Last year, other problems with the GTF engine also caused delays in deliveries of the twin-engine A320neo, a more fuel-efficient version of the Airbus company's best-selling airliner.On Friday, Europe's air safety authority EASA issued an "emergency airworthiness directive" saying that "several occurrences of inflight shutdown and rejected takeoff have been reported" with the single-aisle aircraft. It warned that potentially both engines could shut down simultaneously.An industry source said 11 A320neos have been grounded to replace the engines. A total of 113 planes in the A320neo family, used by 18 airlines, are currently in service that are equipped with the engines.Airbus also uses LEAP engines co-produced by General Electric and Safran on the planes.A huge security operation was unveiled on Friday for Cape Town's collapsing and crime-ridden railway system.

 Self via WC

A 1,500-strong security unit costing R45m a year;

Two bulletproof walls to seal off a 15km stretch of Cape Town's central railway line, which has been closed since the beginning of the year due to concern about security; and

Drones to be deployed "within days" to monitor criminal activity on railways.

Steps agreed on at a summit in Woodstock between the City of Cape Town, the Passenger Rail Agency of SA (Prasa) and the Western Cape government include:Cape Town mayoral committee member for transport Brett Herron said: "A lot still needs to happen, but I think we have achieved our goal for the summit by agreeing on a plan of action that can be implemented as soon as possible."The central railway line has been shut down on 9 January 2018 after the murder of a security guard in Khayelitsha. On Thursday, members of the United National Transport Union threatened to halt northern line trains after a ticket control officer was robbed.Prasa acting CEO Mthuthuzeli Swartz said: "All of our efforts are focused on reinstating the central line service during the coming week."We will deploy drone technology within days, which should assist us to monitor any criminal activity on the system."Herron said an agreement on the new security measures would be signed within the next few weeks."The city is ready and willing to contribute R16m to get this plan off the ground," he said."I asked the Transport and Urban Development Authority's acting commissioner to reprioritise projects and to find the money somewhere in our budget, and he did."I am grateful that we have agreed on a starting point to address the safety and security issues to stabilise the urban rail service in the short term."Swartz said that Prasa would contribute R3m a month to the city council for managing and deploying Metrorail security personnel. He said the council was "better equipped" than Metrorail to do this.Metrorail would use a new product developed by the Department of Environmental Affairs, made of alien vegetation, to build walls on either side of the rail reserve for 15km."The construction cost will amount to about R45m," said Swartz."The wall will be constructed with alien plant biomass and is fire-resistant, bulletproof, strong, quick to build and cheaper than other options considered to date," said Swartz."If we use the product " we can save R20m."Source: Business DayBritish stage designer, Es Devlin, famous for creating kinetic stage sculptures for artists like U2, Kanye West and Beyonce, has been announced as one of the speakers at the 2018 Design Indaba.

Bored by music concerts visually

I was into music. I was bored by music concerts visually, too. I was visually unexcited and not fascinated by theatre because I found it very old-fashioned. Opera I found exciting because opera designers were beginning to do something more abstract. Then, in the early 90s, I started seeing people begin to use projection, and begin to envelop film and theatre together.

In search of connection and meaning

A true aficionado at her craft, this is some of Es Devlin's work for @Adele's World Arena Tour 



The set designer will share more about how she creates the way we experience some of the world's biggest performances and productions @DI_Festival. https://t.co/1pYUCApHIX pic.twitter.com/6r3xyWrwz0  Design Indaba (@designindaba) February 11, 2018

Terrible brief. Desperate brief. A flag. A Union Jack flag. What are you going to do? I really struggled.

Born in Kingston upon Thames, Devlin studied music at the Royal Academy of Music from the age of 12 and went on to graduate from Bristol University with a Bachelor's degree in English Literature before she studied set design on the Motley Theatre Design Course in London. Back then already, Devlins brilliance was evident and shortly after she won the Linbury Prize of Stage Design in 1995.Devlin has worked on projects for the likes of La Scala Milan, Leipzig Opera, Royal Opera House and the Royal Shakespeare Company. She also did work on Ernst Bloch's Macbeth and Cullberg Ballet. She toldin an interview that when she began, she was bored by a lot of theatres.Devlin shot to fame in 2005 when hip-hop artist, Kanye West commissioned her to work on a project for hisWorld Arena Tour. She also commented on working with West in the interview , saying, The first thing to say about Yeezus, compared to the other projects, is that Kanye is obviously evolving as an artist every day. His relationship with his design team is also evolving. He really is the director of every decision and one has to say that.In addition, Devlin also did work for the Pet Shop Boys, Jay Z, Adele, Beyonce and Lady Gaga.Talking about working with these famous performing artists, Devlin toldthat, Theyre standing in front of 80,000 people  you generally dont do that as a barefoot creature, you have your character on Generally, humans operate in search of connection and meaning.Devlin was also part of the design team on the opening ceremony of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and MTV Europe Music Awards (2011 and 2010). In an interview with the, Devlin said the brief for the Olympic Games was very brief.In 2015, she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to stage and set design. She also won three Olivier Awards, three TPi Awards and two Critics Circle Awards.Click here for Bizcommunity's special section on the Design Indaba and here for more information on the Design Indaba website.The 2018 Wine.Art.Food Festival will be held at Freedom Park in Pretoria on 5 May 2018. The annual festival aims to fuse SA's best wine, arts, and cuisine for one day.

The festival will comprise of three family-friendly main elements: wine tasting and classes, gourmet food stalls, and art exhibitions and classes. The festival will host an array of wine farms for the day and exhibitors will be invited from across the country. The participating wineries will offer unlimited tastings to festival-goers and engage them about their products and how they can be accessed outside of the event.A selection of niche eateries from across Gauteng will be on offer on the day to entice the festival-goers taste buds. This year for the first time, the festival will be offering an MCC Masterclass run by the festivals featured chefs. The masterclass will include a light three-course tasting menu to pair with three selected MCCs for the day.Local artists will be handpicked from around the province to create their signature art live on the day. The festival will also have various local artists and photographers showcase their work within various segments of the park. The festival will offer a simple but fun two-hour art class on the basics of painting 101 - the class will be facilitated by one of the professionals for the day, with the aim of teaching festival-goers how to get the basics of art right, and they get to keep their portraits at the end of the day.To buy tickets to this years Wine.Art.Food Festival in Pretoria visit http://bit.ly/2FAsrO6The marginally lower total in 2017 still remains unacceptably high and with close to three rhinos illegally killed in South Africa every single day the crisis continues.

Successes in the Kruger but failure elsewhere

Corruption and mismanagement

increasing levels of corruption among our ranks, the police, immigration officials and other law enforcement  The number of corruption cases in wildlife management is making our efforts to achieve success more difficult.

No cause for complacency

Any fall in the numbers is welcomed, but its the fifth year running that over 1000 rhinos were killed. TRAFFIC , the international wildlife trade monitoring group, states that 5476 rhinos were killed in South Africa over a five-year period. This is from an estimated rhino populations at the end of 2010 of 18,796 white and 1916 black rhino in the country. South Africa has about 93% of the worlds white rhino population and 40% of its black rhinos.Though recorded deaths have dropped for three years in a row, there is still a crisis on hand. Tom Milliken, TRAFFICs rhino programme leader, said Anti-poaching operations in the world famous Kruger National Park have achieved considerable success. But rhino poaching has soared in KwaZulu-Natal and several other provinces. The Kruger has increased patrols, the size and sophistication of anti-poaching units and worked with the South African army to secure the areas with the largest rhino populations, but smaller parks and reserves do not have the resources to do this.The biggest danger is that poaching is changing focus by moving from concentration on the Kruger National Park to other provinces and reserves, which lack Krugers resources. This is a major threat as it stretches the limited anti-poaching capabilities outside a park like Kruger and demonstrates the flexibility of the poaching networks.Minister Molewa praised the efforts in the Kruger Park, the biggest single site of poaching. A total of 504 rhinos were poached there in 2017, down from 662 in 2016, according to Molewa. But she said poaching in other areas of the country was becoming more serious than before. In particular, there are concerns about rhino killings in KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape, Mpumalanga, Free State and North West.While rhino poaching had declined in the Kruger, elephant poaching was on the rise. In 2017, 67 elephants were killed compared with 46 in 2016 and 22 in 2015. The reason is that an intensive protection zone has been established a couple of years ago, in central and southern areas of the park where rhinos are concentrated. Elephant poaching has risen outside the zone, where poaching syndicates can no longer easily kill rhino and so poach elephants.A provincial breakdown shows that rhino poaching was down in Kruger but up in the rest of Mpumalanga province it was up by 54% to 49 killed; it was up 37% in KwaZulu-Natal (222 rhinos); 72% in North West province (96 rhinos) and 100% in Northern Cape (doubled to 24 killed). In KwaZulu-Natal, the vast majority of the 222 rhino killed up from 162 in 2016 were government-owned rhinos on smaller national parks or reserves away from Kruger. Less than 5% were killed on privately owned reserves. Molewa pledged to keep working to fight poaching and smuggling and to learn from past mistakes. But she made scant reference to areas that need urgent attention  corruption and mismanagement.Milliken pointed to the dysfunctional National Prosecuting Authority and Crime Intelligence division of South Africas police, two of the countrys main crime fighting institutions. Poachers are frequently caught but the organisers rarely traced or if they are prosecutions are slow and sentences light.Cathy Dean, CEO of the British-based Save the Rhino NGO, is particularly concerned about the KwaZulu-Natal poaching crisis and the failure of the justice system. The inability to do anything to speed up the prosecution of alleged poaching kingpins who have been charged with poaching but not come to court, like Hugo Ras, Dawie Groenewald, Big Joe Nyalunga and Dumisani Gwala, whose trials have been repeatedly delayed by incompetence in the justice system or the seeming lack of enthusiasm of the law enforcement and prosecuting authorities to make it a priority is concerning.Corruption and mismanagement in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal have been alleged and blamed for the failure to cope with the rise in poaching there, with under funding and staff morale major issues. Sources within the park have told me and local conservation NGOs that anti-poaching units are being stopped from patrolling poaching hotspots at particular times; and staff and South African conservation NGOs have raised concerns about financial irregularities.Two years ago, the head of KwaZulu-Natal Ezemvelo Wildlife (which manages the park), David Mabunda , referred to the huge problem of:It doesnt seem like much has been done at all to curb corruption in the park as reports of corruption keep surfacing.The fall in the number of rhinos killed should not be rejected as meaningless. It shows that strong, well-funded local action can work. But this should not lead to complacency. Poaching networks and the smuggling rings linked to them are flexible and feed off incompetence, mismanagement and corruption.These problems are at the heart of politics, national and local government in South Africa . Until they are cracked, the killing will go on.HOMEMAKERS 2018 Expo theme celebrates the authenticity behind real homes and their beauty

UJ Design Challenge

Skybar

Vermont DIY Theatre

Live by Design

Live by Design: Pets

Sustainable Living: Going off the Grid

The Market

Annie Sloan

tuis|home Theatre

General info

Home is the very place where we laugh, we cry, we grow up and raise our children so its no wonder that we all want to tell our stories through our decor and designs, mimicking the past, present and future days between our four walls.The 2018 Johannesburg HOMEMAKERS Expo will take great strides in bringing a thrilling variety of features and exhibitions, sure to tantalise every imaginable taste.Show highlights will include:At this years Design Challenge, students from the University of Johannesburg will bring us into the intricate world of clamping tools. With innovation at the forefront, Vermont Sales and the UJ Design School will see to the stellar workings of brilliant young minds, making simple tools work for and appeal to the everyday user.Our SkyBar speaks to relaxation with a difference. Exhausted after hours of shopping and perusing through our fabulous expo, what better way to unwind than with a cooling cocktail or whisky for a kick! This chic SkyBar facility will overlook the entire show, giving you a birds eye view of your next endeavour!Intermediate to Ninja! This area is for serial DIYers. Vermont Sales will take visitors through a whirlwind of demonstrations on power tools, inspiring even the most mundane of minds to break down a few walls!Living stylishly, lavishly and resourcefully is Live by Design's premise. Offering up-to-the-minute design trends, a stroll through this area will see visitors leave with purchases and ideas well ahead of the 2018 design game!Our Live by Design: Pets feature will revel in all things fitting to our domesticated friends. Fashionable collars, designer pet beds and beautifully designed bowls will be all the rage at this exclusive crafty corner, where your animal companion can indulge as much as you!Feeling a bit gridlocked? Foo Dog Designs will build a formidable, energy efficient, feature spotlighting Sustainable Living. A holistic overview at how we can take a phased approach to living more responsibly. The feature will give you a step-by-step guide on going green - from changing your light bulbs to going off the grid completely.Families, friends and food-loving fanatics can whet their appetites to their hearts content at the HOMEMAKERS Food Market. Delightful delicacies await those with a passion for varying cuisine!British Annie Sloan Painter in Residence Jonathan Marc Mendes will be demonstrating the many furniture paint finishes one can achieve using Annie Sloans world-renowned Chalk Paint and techniqueing products. Talented local stockist and specialists will add pizazz to furniture makeovers, looking at ombre, fabric dyeing and fabulous printing.Tuis|home is coming to Johannesburg! Cocktail tastings, food demos, chalk paint demos, coffee tastings... you name it, weve got it! For the first time, exclusive to the 2018 HOMEMAKERS Expo, this home theatre will bring a refreshing myriad of entertaining and informative demos in a home theatre space reminiscent of so many visitor homes!22-25 February 2018 | Ticketpro Dome, Northumberland Rd and Olievenhout Ave, North Riding, Johannesburg, 2161 - GPS: 26.0632 S, 27.9433 E.Times: Thursday, 10:00-18:00 | Friday, 10:00  18:00 | Saturday, 09:00  18:00 | Sunday, 09:00  17:00Entrance: Adults  R100 | Pensioners  R50 | Children under 12  FreeFor more information phone 0861 4663 12 or email az.oc.as-srekamemoh@izakimobThe Committee to Protect Journalists condemns the Ethiopian government's attempts to compel Ethiopian journalist and blogger Eskinder Nega to sign a false confession before releasing him under a presidential pardon.

Ethiopian journalist, Eskinder Nega.

Eskinder, who has spent almost seven years in jail for his work, was one of 746 prisoners due to be pardoned by President Mulatu Teshome on February 8, according to media reports."Through this deplorable behaviour the Ethiopian government is undermining any goodwill it might have generated by releasing an innocent man from prison," said CPJ Africa program coordinator Angela Quintal. "Ethiopian authorities should immediately release Eskinder Nega without condition."At 11am local time, a prison official asked Eskinder to sign a form which falsely stated that he was a member of Ginbot 7, an organisation that the government deems a terrorist group, Eskinder's wife, Serkalem Fasil, told CPJ.Eskinder refused and asked to see a more senior official. That request was not granted, and the journalist was returned to his cell, his wife said.Eskinder is serving an 18-year sentence on vague terrorism charges, according to CPJ research. The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention condemned his 2012 trial and conviction and said it was connected to his "peaceful exercise of the right to freedom of expression". The group found his arrest without warrant and prosecution was flawed, and the trial fell short of international standards of fairness.BORDERLAND BEAT

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KATHMANDU (PTI): Indian Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat will arrive here today on a three-day visit to Nepal to attend its Army Day, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of establishment of the Himalayan nation's unification.



Gen Rawat is visiting Nepal at the invitation of Nepal Army chief Rajendra Chhetri.



The Indian Army chief will attend as special guest a function being organised by the Nepal Army to mark the Army Day, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of establishment of the country's unification.



The late King of Gorkha Prithvi Narayan Shah united dozens of smaller states into a greater Nepal in 1769, when he conquered the Kathmandu valley.



"There has been close and cordial relations between the Nepal Army and Indian Army since a long time and there is a tradition of inviting chiefs of Nepalese and Indian Army during special occasions," said a statement issued by the Nepal Army on Sunday.



Such high-level visits between the two armies will further strengthen bilateral relations and promote mutual interests, the statement said.



Rawat's trip is a regular visit and there is a tradition of exchange of visits between the chiefs of the two armies.



Last year, Gen Rawat was conferred the title of honourary general of the Nepal Army by Nepalese President Bidya Devi Bhandari.





NEW DELHI (PTI): Months after it announced a joint venture with the Adani Group, Swedish defence giant Saab has said it plans to partner with a few other Indian entities for manufacturing a broad portfolio of products in view of the improving business climate in India.



Mats Palmberg, Vice President of Saab's International Partnerships, said the company was also bringing its global partners to India to expand on its product range.



On the Indian Air Force looking to procure over 100 single-engine fighters and the Navy seeking to induct 57 jets for its aircraft carriers, he said it would be beneficial for India if the two acquisitions were combined.



The government is set to start the process soon for procuring a fleet of single-engine fighters for the IAF and had last year invited proposals from global fighter jet manufacturers for 57 combat aircraft.



"We will cooperate with other companies in India," Palmberg told PTI in an interview. He, however, declined to reveal the names of the companies with whom Saab was looking for collaboration.



In September last year, 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.



"We are looking at involving other parties, for example, into the Gripen project as well. But it is important to be in the complete ecosystem and you should not put everything into one basket," he said.



Palmberg said Saab was looking at producing a broad portfolio of products in India considering the favourable business climate and policy initiatives of the government to promote defence production in the country.



He indicated Saab's interests in producing radars, unmanned aerial vehicles and futuristic platforms for the Indian armed forces.



"We have to look broadly. We should use the existing network of companies in India in the best possible way. We are also bringing in our international partners," he said.



Palmberg said Saab's association with the Adani Group will continue even if the joint venture fails to bag the deal to produce the single-engine fighter jets for the Indian Air Force.



Tony Ogilvy, General Manager Aeronautics and Head of Sea Gripen at Saab, also said it would be beneficial for India if the requirement for IAF and the Navy was combined.



"It is definitely going to be beneficial and it will give Indian manufacturing opportunities that really are going to be invaluable," he said, adding if Saab wins the two projects, both the aircraft will be manufactured in India.



Saab has offered its Gripen E for the IAF and its Gripen M for the Navy.



Ogilvy said Gripen E has already been crafted for IAF but Gripen M needs to be furthered designed in keeping with Indian requirements.



Boeing has also offered its F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet to the Indian Navy.



Hard selling Gripen M for the Navy, Ogilvy said it will be much better for India than the F/A-18.



"It's a question of a longer term requirement. The F/18, I guess, will have some problem in operating from India's aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya," he claimed.



Ogilvy said Saab had responded to the Navy's Request for Proposal and was now awaiting a response.

Dear Reader,

Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance.

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Digital EditorIf you want to engage an Indian aviation enthusiast in conversation, the easiest way is to start a debate on who is going to be the new owner of Air India. So it was not surprising to see guests at the CAPA India Aviation Summit wait eagerly to listen to two prospective bidders  Leslie Thng, CEO of Tata-Singapore Airlines joint venture Vistara, and Ajay Singh, CMD of SpiceJet.

Singh was repeatedly quizzed on his interest in Air India and like a dyed-in-the-wool business leader he managed to change the topic every time saying that SpiceJet was too small to be in the race. When asked ...This has been a difficult year for the company because of the move to the goods and services tax (GST) regime, with increasing pressure on its under-utilised capacities. In the first 10 months of FY18, it sold 103,891 units, 3.53 per cent less than its sales in the corresponding period of FY17, according to the data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturer ...

Dear Reader,

Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance.

We, however, have a request.



As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed.



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Digital EditorWipro Consumer Care & Lighting has done what not many in this space have been able to crack so far  scaling the Great Wall of China, literally.

Even though China is considered a difficult market for Indian brands, not just in consumer goods, but even in information technology (IT), the home-grown FMCG brand, is set to close this financial year with a revenue of $125 million (Rs 8 billion) alone from China, as it crosses the milestone of $1 billion (Rs 64 billion) in revenue. In the last four quarters of the calendar 2017, Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting has already crossed a ...Shia Central Waqf Board chairman Wasim Rizvi on Sunday termed the All India Muslim Personal Law Board's (AIMPLB) as one of the subsidiaries of terror groups operating in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

"Terrorist organisations of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia take major decisions related to Muslims in India. Muslim Personal Law Board is a branch of such terrorist organisations that is spoiling the atmosphere of the country by following their ideologies," an official statement from Rizvi read.

The statement comes in the backdrop of the board's decision to remove its executive member Moulana Salman Hasni Nadvi, who supported the construction of Ram Temple on the disputed land in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.

Rizvi also stated that the AIMPLB should be considered a terrorist organisation and be banned.

Endorsing Nadvi's stand on the dispute, Rizvi said, "Ram temple should be built in Ayodhya, and the only way is for Muslims to build their mosque in some other disputed land.

Earlier in the day, the committee of AIMPLB decided to remove Nadvi over his "uncompromising stand on Babri Masjid issue."

On February 9, Maulana Salman Husaini Nadvi spoke to ANI about his meeting with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar where he extended support to the construction of Ram temple and said that their priority is to join hearts of people.

He also hinted at an out of court settlement by saying, "The courts do not join people's heart as the verdict is always in favour of one and against the other.Pulling out all the stops to sell Uttar Pradesh as an emerging tourism hub, the state government has roped in Indian arm of McCann Erickson for its branding, the CEO of which is eminent lyricist and writer Prasoon Joshi.

And the state's new tagline is: "



UP nahi dekha toh India nahi dekha", Tourism Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi informed in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly today.

"We are committed to promote tourism sector in a big way and Prasoon Joshi's McCann has been engaged for its branding. The catchy tagline 'UP nahi dekha toh India Nahi dekha' (If you have not seen UP, then you have not seen India too) is attracting attention," the minister said while replying to a question raised by Congress member Aradhana Mishra in the assembly.

She added that the government is focusing on developing infrastructure facilities of tourism spots and their beautification.

"Ramayana, Buddha, Krishna, Spiritual and other circuits are being developed under various schemes. Mahotsavas were also held in a number of districts to promote tourism and showcase local talents," Joshi said.

When Congress leader Ajay Kumar Lallu asked the minister about what the government has done to ensure air connectivity, she replied, "five MOUs have been signed for the air connectivity."



Boasting about the work done by her government for tourism sector, she claimed that what the BJP did in last 10 months had not been done by previous governments, even in past 40 years.

The minister further asserted that tourism has been the focus area of UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, something she said could also be used to generate employment.Barely an hour after a portrait of late AIADMK leader J Jayalalithaa was on Monday unveiled in the Tamil Nadu Assembly by Speaker P Dhanapal, the opposition DMK moved the Madras High Court seeking its removal on the grounds that she was found guilty on corruption charges.

When the first bench of Chief Justice Indira Banerjee and Justice Abdul Quddhose commenced proceedings on Monday at about 10.30 am, DMK's counsel P Wilson made an urgent mention and requested the court to take up the plea.

However, noting that the bench has to hear a plea moved by Congress leader P Chidambaram's son Karti Chidambaram challenging the lookout notice issued by the CBI, as per the direction of the Supreme Court, the bench said that it would take up the DMK's plea on Tuesday.

According to the petitioner, Jayalalithaa was convicted by a special court on graft charges. Later the same was set aside by the Karnataka high court and on appeal, the Supreme Court found all the accused guilty of the charges. In view of her demise, appeals against Jayalalithaa were treated as abated, the petitioner said.

At the same time, the co-accused were convicted; sentenced to four years imprisonment and properties belonging to them were ordered to be attached, the DMK counsel said.

In such circumstances, the DMK has already filed a plea in the high court seeking removal of photos and the name of Jayalalithaa displayed and mentioned in government offices, buildings, public sector undertakings and government schemes by the state government that is still pending in court, the petitioner submitted.

The plea alleged that the Speaker has "arbitrarily" taken a decision on February 10 to unveil a portrait of Jayalalithaa in the assembly hall today in the presence of the chief minister and the deputy chief minister.

The seven-ft high portrait was successfully unveiled this morning, the petitioner said.

The decision of the speaker was unconstitutional, tainted with illegality, besides highly arbitrary, unreasonable and reeks of malice in law, the petitioner's counsel said.

"It is antithetical to standards of morality and probity enshrined in our Constitution and expounded by the Supreme Court of India from time to time," the counsel said.

"The intention of the then Speakers to display photographs.. inside the Assembly was to serve as an example and reminder to all the members of the august assembly that the elected representatives should live and conduct themselves like these leaders whose life is an example of the highest standards of public life," the petitioner submitted.

"It could never have been the intention of the then speakers to hang portraits of convicts, culprits or persons convicted of offences involving moral turpitude like corruption," the petitioner said.

The plea urged the court to grant interim direction directing the authorities to forthwith remove the portrait of Jayalalithaa from the precincts of the assembly, pending disposal of the above plea.Indians suffer considerable heartburn year after year at the Oscars after failing to win any of the awards up for grabs. This year, however, an engineer from Mumbai's Mulund area, has brought some good news home.

Vikas Sathaye on Saturday won an Academy plaque for innovating a camera system that has been used in numerous Hollywood blockbusters. The camera mount is said to be such that it can be attached to the base of a helicopter and its main function is to eliminate vibrations for a steady footage, according to a Times of India report. The K1 is a gyro-stabilised ...Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so," the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh - A Cultural Organisation said to workers on a six day trip to Muzaffarpur (unfortunately not beamed live by Doordarshan like his Dussehra address to the nation). Sangh is neither a military nor a paramilitary organisation, rather it is like a parivarik sangathan (family ...

Dear Reader,

Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance.

We, however, have a request.



As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed.



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Digital EditorA school in neighbouring Jagtial is in the process of getting toilets and washrooms after two of its students wrote a letter, about the lack of these facilities, to the district judge who in turn forwarded it to the Chief Justice of the High Court of Hyderabad.

The students, A Vaishnavi and M Rashmita, studying in Class 9 of the Zilla Parishad high school in Korutla in Jagtial district, had written to District Judge M Krishna Murthy on January 11 this year.

After the letter reached the HC, it ordered the Education department to provide the amenities.

"As per instructions, we have prepared an estimate of Rs 1.1 million to get the toilets and washrooms repaired and also to provide drinking water to the students," District Education Officer Sunkeshula Venkateshwarlu told PTI on Sunday.

The two students said they were happy that, thanks to judicial intervention, their school would have these amenities.Launching a "clearing" operation, the Army on Sunday fired mortar shells at the vacated residential quarters of the Sunjuwan military camp, setting them ablaze, a day after the pre-dawn audacious strike at the military station by suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists.

Pakistan on Sunday rejected allegations that it was involved in the terror attack on Sunjwan Army camp, saying Indian media and officials make "irresponsible" statements even before any investigation is initiated.

The Foreign Office spokesperson also accused India of carrying out a "smear campaign against Pakistan and the deliberate creation of war hysteria."



"It is a well-established pattern that Indian officials begin making irresponsible statements and levelling unfounded allegations, even before any proper investigation in any incident has been initiated," the Foreign Office spokesperson said, when asked about the attack on Sunjwan Army camp in Jammu.

"A particular segment in the Indian media runs with their innuendos to malign Pakistan and whips up public frenzy. We are confident that the world community would take due cognisance of India's smear campaign against Pakistan, and the deliberate creation of war hysteria," the spokesperson said.

Earlier, Army spokesperson Lt Col Devender Anand said the Army found the bodies of three of its personnel and a civilian, taking the toll to six in the attack, and gunned down three terrorists.

On the clearing operation launched tonight, he said there was no exchange of fire.

"The Army has launched a fire assault as a part of a sanatisation and clearing operation. There was no exchange of fire," the Jammu-based Army PRO told PTI.

A police official said, "Fresh gunfire took place and mortar shells were launched at the quarters vacated by the Army. It resulted in eruption of fire at the quarters."



Lt Col Anand said five Army men, including two junior commissioned officers(JCOs), and the father of a soldier were killed in the attackby the terrorists who struck at the sprawling camp of the 36 Brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) yesterday.

In a statement, he said three heavily armed terrorists were killed in the operation.

While two were gunned down yesterday, the body a third terrorist was found today, he said, adding they were in combat gear.

The Army spokesperson said that AK-56 rifles, an under barrel grenade launcher, ammunition and grenades were from them.

ALSO READ: Attack on Sunjwan Army camp in Jammu: 2 JCOs martyred & top 10 developments



Earlier in the day, Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) S P Vaid had said that four terrorists had been killed.

In Delhi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh exuded confidence that the operation against terrorists would be successfully concluded.

"I think it is not proper for me to comment when the operation is still on. I'm sure that our jawans, who are in the operation, will successfully conclude it," he told reporters.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi condemned the attack and said all Indians across political lines stand united with the Army men and women.

Giving details, Lt Col Anand said, "So far, six fatal causalities have occurred. They include two JCOs, three jawans and one civilian dependent, all residents of Jammu and Kashmir."



Ten people, including Major Avijit Singh, have been injured of which six are women and children, he said.

One of the injured women was pregnant and she later delivered a baby girl through a caesarean operation, he said, adding both the mother and child were stable.





Army doctors saved life of a pregnant lady injured in terror attack on #SunjwanArmyCamp, she delivered a baby girl through c-section last night; lady says, 'I am very thankful to them for saving me and my baby' pic.twitter.com/iOSwLhsnrv  ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2018

A 14-year-old boy had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and was in a critical condition, the spokesperson said.

Those killed were identified as Subedar Madan Lal Choudhary, Subdebar Mohmmad Ashraf Mir, Havaldar Habib-Ullah Qurashi, Naik Manzoor Ahmed, Lance Naik Mohmmad Iqbal -- all from the JAKLI, besides the father of Lance Naik Mohmmad Iqbal, he said.

The officer said that a search operation of the family quarters in the Army complex for evacuation of people and to ascertain the situation was underway.

A number of families were still in the camp and the Army's aim was to ensure their safety, he said.

Vaid said that investigation is on to find out where from the terrorists came.

"Whether they infiltrated from Pakistan or came from Kashmir is being investigated," the DGP said.

A Investigation Agency (NIA) team today visited the camp and examined the evidence collected by the Army from the site of the gun battle, an official said.

The latest attack on the camp took place nearly 15 months after the Jammu region was hit by a similar attack.

On November 29, 2016, terrorists had stormed the Army's Nagrota camp on the outskirts of the city, killing seven personnel, including two officers. Three terrorists were gunned down in the operation.

Yesterday, the terrorists had struck before dawn and managed to sneak into the camp from the rear end of the base after a brief exchange of fire with the sentry guarding the periphery.

"The terrorists entered the family accommodation complex after which quick response teams cordoned off the area and isolated the terrorists, who were holed up in a few houses (inside the camp)," an official said.

While there was no action around the main entrance and vehicles were moving along the Jammu-Lakhanpur bypass in front of the camp, Army personnel in bullet-proof vehicles were engaged in the operation to rescue people from the family quarters in the rear side of the base.

Contingents of CRPF and police were posted outside the boundary wall and were keeping curious onlookers at bay to prevent civilian casualties.

A high alert has been sounded in Jammu and security beefed up in and around the city.

Intelligence inputs had warned of an attack on an Army or security establishment by the Pakistan-based JeM in view of the death anniversary of Afzal Guru, who was hanged on February 9, 2013, for the 2001 attack on Parliament House.rose 9.1 per cent in December quarter 2017 over the previous three months as overall sentiment remained buoyant, a survey by economic think tank NCAER said today.

The NCAER (N-BCI) had declined 12.9 per cent in the September quarter as the economy was still adjusting to the implementation of GST, affecting business sentiment, it said.

"Overall, sentiment regarding production, domestic sales, exports, imports of raw materials, and pre-tax profits remained buoyant in October-December 2017 over July-September 2017," said the survey.

These improved sentiment, it added, were broad-based with all the sectors showing increasing trends for all these components between the two periods.

Further, there was a considerable improvement in the situation pertaining to labour employment and wages over the last three months, and expectations about future labour employment and wages were optimistic, it said.

NCAER (National Council of Applied Economic Research)is one of the India's oldest economic think tanks, set up in 1956 at the behest of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, to inform policy choices for both public and private sectors.

(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's second visit to the UAE has resulted in an Indian consortium gaining stake for the first time in Abu Dhabi's massive oil resources.

An MoU was signed here on Saturday between an Indian consortium comprising state-run explorer ONGC Videsh, Bharat PetroResources, Indian Oil and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Co (Adnoc) for acquisition of 10 per cent participating interest in its offshore Lower Zakum Concession.

Abu Dhabi is a constituent of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The UAE is one of the largest suppliers of crude oil to India and is also the 10th largest investor.

The MoU is an important milestone in India's search for energy security, at a time when oil prices have started hardening again mainly due to output cuts put in place by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC producers deal with a supply glut that was pushing down prices till last year.

The consortium, led by India's ONGC Videsh, contributed a participation fee of Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) 2.2 billion ($600 million) to enter the concession. The concession will be operated by ADNOC Offshore, a subsidiary of ADNOC, on behalf of all concession partners.

The agreement, which has a term of 40 years and an effective date of March 9, 2018, was signed here on Saturday by ONGC Chairman Shashi Shanker and ADNOC Group Chief Executive Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber.

According to a statement from ONGC's overseas arm, current production at the Lower Zakum field is about 400,000 barrels a day, while the plan is to increase the target to 450,000 barrels a day by 2025.

Adnoc's offshore fields currently produce about 1.4 million barrels a day, an Adnoc statement said.

Increased production from its offshore reservoirs is part of the state-run company's plans to raise its onshore and offshore output capacity to 3.5 million barrels a day by the end of 2018, it added.

The company also said it had received more than 10 bids from firms seeking to operate these offshore fields. This agreement will enable Adnoc to cater to a part of India's massive oil demand, over 80 per cent of which is met by imports.

On Saturday, Adnoc also signed an agreement with the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Ltd to implement the strategic crude oil storage facility on India's western coast in Mangalore (Karnataka) for the storage of 5.86 million barrels of Adnoc crude in underground facilities.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said his visit to Oman and talks with the oil-rich Gulf nation's top leadership will impart a "substantial momentum" to all spheres of bilateral ties.

This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come, Modi tweeted before concluding his two-day visit to Oman during which the two countries signed eight agreements, including one on enhancing defence cooperation.

This visit has helped in building upon the centuries-old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations, Modi said.

Thank you, your Majesty Sultan Qaboos (bin Said al Said) for your exceptional warmth, hospitality and friendship, as also your personal attention to details, that made my visit to Oman one of the most memorable visits I have undertaken anywhere, the Prime Minister said.





ALSO READ: PM Narendra Modi visits 125-year-old Shiva temple in Oman, offers prayers

Modi also expressed gratitude to the Sultan and the people of Oman for their tremendous support, goodwill and affection.

We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman, he said as he concluded his three-nation visit to the Palestine, the UAE and Oman.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the final leg of his three-nation tour, led talks with Sultan Qaboos last night on a wide range of issues.

During the meeting, several aspects of the existing cooperation between the two countries and means of promoting the good relations between them were discussed, the official Oman Agency reported.

Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi-led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.



ALSO READ: Modi's Gulf visit: India, Oman signs 8 agreements as PM meets Sultan Qaboos

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of "honest and hard working" Indian nationals in the development of Oman. After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an memorandum of understanding on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters. They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation. According to Oman Agency, it envisages the services of Duqm Port and dry-dock for the maintenance of Indian military vessels.

Secretary-General of Oman's Ministry of Defence Mohammed bin Nasser al Rasbi said there were many areas of cooperation with the Indian side, whether in the field of joint exercises, training or courses, as well as exchange of experiences between the two sides and some defence purchases and projects.

India's Ambassador Indra Man Pandey said signing the MoUs will promote cooperation between the two countries. He said the Indian companies have a strong presence in Oman and have significant investments in the Omani free zones and ports in Suhar and Salalah. He said Indian investments are estimated at $1.8 billion in two projects in Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZD).

The volume of trade exchange during this year is expected to reach $5.5 billion, Pandey was quoted as saying.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation was signed between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

Modi on Monday met Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

Modi and the two leaders exchanged views on intensifying ties in the areas of energy, trade and investment, food security, defence and security, mining and other sectors.

He also had a meeting with leading business leaders and investors.

Modi also offered prayers at the 125-year-old Shiva Temple, one of the oldest in the region. He also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque in Oman.

In Oman, there are over 800,000 Indians and they constitute the largest expatriate community. The Prime Minister had also addressed the Indian community on Sunday night.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah. He became the first Indian Prime Minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there, he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.Commerce Secretary level meeting between India and Bangladesh held on 7th -8th February 2018 at Dhaka, Bangladesh





India-Bangladesh bilateral talks, at the level of Commerce Secretary, were held on 7th-8th February 2018 at Dhaka. The Indian delegation was led by Ms. Rita Teaotia, Commerce Secretary and the Bangladesh delegation was headed by Shri Shubhashish Bose, Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of Bangladesh.

The two sides held extensive and productive discussions on a variety of issues concerning bilateral trade and economic relations, including development and up-gradation of infrastructure at border trading points, further expansion of the Border Haats of the two countries, identification and resolution of non-tariff issues affecting bilateral trade, regional connectivity under BBIN MVA and ease of investment.

Both sides agreed to explore the possibilities to further enhance bilateral trade relations and cooperation in fields such as export promotion and capacity building on trade related matters. Commerce secretaries of both sides also discussed the of establishment of an institutional B2B mechanism to provide policy level inputs on trade and investment.

The next bilateral meeting will be held in New Delhi at a mutually convenient date.An affiliate of Chinas securities regulator on Monday encouraged major shareholders of domestically-listed firms to increase their holdings, after Chinese stocks were mauled in a global sell-off last week. The call represents the clearest signal yet from the Chinese government to lend support to a market rocked by recent global volatility, Chinas deleveraging campaign and fears of margin calls. It also stirs memories of government intervention during Chinas 2015 stock market crash, when companies were also urged to buy shares and state-backed funds were pumped ...Chocfinger made his name and his money by taking bold bets on cocoa markets. But after nearly four decades of trading, sometimes winning, sometimes losing, Anthony Ward threw in the towel. Ward blames the rise of computer-driven funds and high-frequency trading for forcing him and some other well-known commodities investors to close their hedge funds and look for opportunities where machines cant make a difference. While computerised trading is not new, Ward and others argue its steady rise has reached a tipping point that is distorting prices and creating ...Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain on Monday signed an ordinance, aimed at cracking down on terrorist organisations and its individuals, which have been banned by United Nations Security Council (UNSC), according to sources.

According to the ordinance, it amends a section of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), enabling the authorities to take action against the UNSC-proscribed individuals and terror outfits such as sealing their offices and freezing their bank accounts, the Express Tribune reported.

The sources in the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) confirmed the new move, saying the ministries of Interior, Finance and Foreign Affairs, as well as NACTA's Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) wing were working on the matter.

A spokesperson for President Hussain refused to share further details on the ordinance, saying the defence ministry was the notifying authority.

According to sources, the authorities are bound under obligations and have sweeping powers to take legal actions against the terrorist organisations under the framework of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which is an body that cracks down on money laundering and terrorist financing.

The UNSC sanctions' list includes dreaded terrorist organisations such as al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ), Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) to name a few.

The LeT, which is responsible for numerous terror attacks in India, was declared "banned" under the UNSC resolution 1267 in 2005.

In December last year, the Pakistan Government had planned to take over two charities belonging to Hafiz Saeed, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind, the JuD and the FIF. An action plan was supposed to be submitted by the government, regarding this move.

In the NACTA website, the JuD and the FIF are on the "watch list" category.

The United States' Department in 2014 had named the JuD as "foreign terrorist organisation", a status that freezes assets of the organisation under its jurisdiction.

Saeed, who had recently been released from house arrest, is also looking to contest the 2018 general elections in Pakistan and has, thereby, formed a party by the name of Milli Muslim League (MML).

Pakistan prohibited the JuD and FIF from collecting donations from individuals and companies last month.

India has, time and again, protested against Pakistan for harbouring Saeed, who is wanted for plotting the 2008 attack.

(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.)Could the Space Station become a commercial venture run by private industry?



That is the wish of the White House, which hopes to end funding for the costly programme within a few years, The Washington Post reported on Sunday.

The US plan, the paper said, involves privatising the ISS, a low-orbit space station piloted by the US space agency NASA and developed jointly with its Russian counterpart.

The station has allowed crews -- notably in collaboration with the Canadian, European and Japanese space agencies -- to pursue scientific research in the environment of a low Earth orbit.

"The decision to end direct federal support for the ISS in 2025 does not imply that the platform itself will be deorbited at that time," says an internal NASA document obtained by the Post. "It is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform."



"NASA will expand and commercial partnerships over the next seven years in order to ensure continued human access to and presence in low Earth orbit," the document says.

A budget request to be issued on Monday by the Trump administration will call for $150 million to be spent on the ISS in the 2019 fiscal year, and more in succeeding years, "to enable the development and maturation of commercial entities and capabilities which will ensure that commercial successors to the ISS... are operational when they are needed."



To ensure a smooth transition, the White House would ask the private sector to provide market analyses and development plans, the Post reported.

The plan is expected to face stiff opposition. The United States has already spent some $100 billion to launch, operate and support the orbital station.

Beginning during the presidency of George W. Bush (2001- 2009), NASA has subcontracted certain ISS support operations, starting with the supply flights now carried out by the SpaceX and Orbital ATK companies -- a trend that gained speed during the Obama presidency.

It was not clear, however, how private companies might profit from taking over the aging station -- its first section was launched in 1998.

NASA did not immediately respond to requests for comment.After organising the largely-attended Indo-Global Meet at the House of Lords, UK and the IOD Global Convention on Corporate Governance and Sustainability at London in October, 2017, and Global Convention on Risk Management and Meet at Singapore in December, 2017, the Institute Of Directors organised it's 12th International Conference on corporate social responsibility (CSR) on February 9 and 10 at Hotel Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru (India).

CSR in India is at a nascent stage. There is unanimity about desirability, but few organizations have developed any overall strategy to actualise it. The best approaches to CSR are still fragmented and disconnected from overall

"Put simply, any organisation that wishes to deliver long-term growth and commercial success, must have a sustainable footing. The Institute Of Directors India is a longstanding partner of DMCC, and we are strong supporters of what the IOD is doing to place Corporate Social Responsibility at the very centre of the corporate governance agenda across India and beyond," said Gautam Sashittal, CEO, DMCC.

"Narayana Health is India's leading healthcare provider with a strong presence across 18 locations pan India, and overseas at Cayman Islands, USA. The NH group caters to over 2.6 million patients every year and provides an advanced level of care in over 30 specialties. It is one of the most awarded healthcare providers with over 50+ awards and accolades to its merit," said Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, Vice Chairman, Managing Director and Group CEO, Narayana Health, who is also the principle partner for the event.

The CSR mandate promulgated through the Companies Act, 2013 requires over 16,000 companies to spend 2 percent of their net profit on specified CSR activities. The Act has asked these companies to have CSR policies, CSR committees and work on their Board's direction. It has moved from backroom to boardroom. CSR has become the new game changer, needing an actionable business agenda. That is the theme of the forthcoming International Conference, where India is the first country in the world to mandate CSR under law.

The event was inaugurated by T. M. Vijay Bhaskar, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka, while Gaurav Kapoor, Head - Industry Partnership, CSR, Media, ?National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) delivered the special address, Gautam Sashittal, CEO, DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre), UAE delivered the Keynote Address, and Vineet Nayar, Founder Chairman, Sampark Foundation and Former Chief Executive Officer, HCL Technologies delivered the Theme Address.

D. V. Prasad, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka, Dr. Subhash C. Khuntia, IAS, former Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka, Dr. B. Basavaraaju, IAS, Principal Secretary, Transport, Government of Karnataka, Uma Mahadevan, IAS,Principal Secretary, Women and Child Development, Government of Karnataka, Dr. Kalpana Gopalan, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Administrative Reforms, Government of Karnataka, Bhaskar Anand Rao, Chief Financial Officer, Bangalore International Airport, P. Balaji, Director - Regulatory, External Affairs & CSR, Vodafone India, S. V. Ranganath, IAS (retd.), former Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka, Sandeep Dave, IAS, also addressed the gathering, along with a large number of other dignitaries.

Justice M. N. Venkatachaliah also receives standing ovation for an inspiring address from star-studded audience of over 400. He also presented Golden Peacock Awards with five sitting judges of Karnataka High court during this year's Golden Peacock Awards night in Bengaluru. TATA Steel, Accenture, Infosys, Canara Bank, Reliance Industries were among Indian Recipients of the award

In a packed full house, this year's the Prestigious Golden Peacock Award 2017 were presented. The leadership award for philanthropy and social change was presented to Vineet Nayar, Founder Chairman, Sampark Foundation and Former Chief Executive Officer, HCL Technologies during a ceremony at Hotel Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru.

Distinguished Awards (2018) of IOD were presented to Justice Jayant M. Patel, former Acting Chief Justice, High Court of Gujarat and former Judge, High Court of Karnataka, and Gautam Sashittal, CEO, DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre), UAE, for their outstanding contribution to business and society.

The 1st Distinguished Fellowship was conferred upon Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, way back in 1994. Several other Indian and International companies were also felicitated during the 12th International Conference on Corporate Social Responsibility for their work towards the society and HR Excellence.

This year, the Secretariat received over 293 responses, for the above annual Golden Peacock Awards. Out of which, after careful scrutiny, 129 applications were shortlisted for final selection through a 3-tier assessment process. The quality of shortlisted entries evidenced competitors' commitment and high level of quality to achieve world-class status. An assessment group comprising of CSR and HR experts was set up to assess the applications. Each of the applications was reviewed by assessors independently, and was late.

Other awardees include ACC Limited, Mumbai (Cement); GHCL Limited, Noida (Chemical & Fertilizer); YES BANK Limited, Mumbai (Financial Sector (Banking) - Private); Canara Bank, Bangalore (Financial Sector (Banking) - PSU); National Stock Exchange of India Limited, Mumbai (Financial Services); Dell International Services India P. Ltd, Bangalore (IT); The Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporate Limited, Vijayawada (Mining & Metallurgy); Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, Mumbai (Oil Refining); Reliance Industries Limited, Mumbai (Petrochemical), Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, Gurgaon (Power); Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Limited, Bangalore (Textile & Apparel); GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (Transportation - Aviation); Anand CY Myutee Automotive P. Ltd, Gurgaon (Automobile Ancillary); WNS Global Services P. Limited (BPO); Accenture Solutions Private Limited, Bangalore (Consultancy); National Engineering Industries Limited, Jaipur (Engineering); Union Bank of India, Mumbai (Financial Sector - Banking); Engine Factory Avadi, Chennai (Government - Defence); Kirloskar Brothers Limited, Pune (Industrial Manufacturing); Infosys Limited, Bengaluru (IT); Allcargo Logistics Limited, Mumbai (Logistics).

International organisations awarded were Doha Bank, Qatar (Financial Sector - Banking); Dubai Customs - Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), UAE (Government); Al Jazeera International Catering LLC, UAE (Hospitality); IRPC Public Company Limited, Thailand (Petrochemical)

Special Commendation was also given to Honeywell Hometown Solutions India Foundation (Gurgaon) and Technip India Limited (Mumbai).

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Studies suggest that Indian adolescents and youth do not receive relevant information on sexual matters from reliable sources. Apart from this, only 26% of adolescent girls know that a condom should be used only once, and only 34% understood that oral contraceptive pills must be taken daily.

There is an overall lack of awareness about sexual and reproductive in men and women alike in India, which causes lack of maturity and knowledge related to sex and contraception.

Sexual refers to the many factors that impact sexual function and reproduction. These include a variety of physical, mental and emotional factors. Disorders that affect any of these factors can impact a person's physical and emotional health, as well as his or her relationships and self-image.

Speaking about this, Dr Hrishikesh D Pai, Director IVF & Infertility at Fortis Bloom IVF Center, Delhi/Gurgaon & Former Secretary General of the Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Societies of India, said, "Sexual refers to avoiding infections and illnesses, and taking responsibility to ensure that we protect ourselves and others, emotionally and physically. It is integral to a person's overall health. Lack of awareness can lead to a person being unable to understand the underlying causes of sexual disorders and seek appropriate help."

"One of the greatest barriers to the WHO's vision of sexual health and promoting responsible sexual behavior is the unwillingness of individuals to discuss their sexual problems. On the Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Week, it is important to create awareness on the fact that sexual health issues must be addressed in a timely manner. This can be done by talking about it with a health care provider and your partner," Pai added.

Some examples of reproductive system disorders include cancers of the cervix or prostate gland, infertility issues, gynecological problems such as endometriosis, urinary system problems, STDs, sexual dysfunction, painful intercourse, concerns regarding "normal" or acceptable sexual behavior and lifestyles, and birth control.

Dr Nandita Palshetkar, Director IVF & Infertility at Fortis Bloom IVF Center, Delhi/Gurgaon & President-elect, Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Societies of India further said, "Of all the important consequences of poor sexual health is infertility. This is because not maintaining sexual health can lead to various diseases such as STDs which may eventually contribute to loss of fertility. Both men and women should aim at maintaining their sexual and reproductive health by highlighting any specific or unknown symptoms, and address concerns at the earliest. This includes undergoing regular checkups at various stages of their life."

The following tips can be followed to ensure that you maintain good sexual health.

 Eat healthy. Healthy food nourishes the body and allows it to be at its best in many situations, including sex.

 Avoid smoking. Smoking reduces your vitality. Tobacco also leads to constriction of blood vessels including in the genitals. In men, this reduction in the blood flow can lead to difficulty in having or maintaining an erection. In women, it can cause lubrication reduction.

 Maintain a healthy weight. Overweight or obese people are at a greater risk of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes, medical conditions that may be detrimental to a good sexual health.

 Limit alcohol consumption. Consuming large quantities of alcohol can have a negative impact on men and women's sexual capacities.

 Communicate with your partner. Feel comfortable with your partner and talk to them about anything that may be worrying you.

 Protect yourself. Safety is always first. Using a condom reduces the risks of both an unwanted pregnancy and contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLCs from Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday demanded that an FIR should be lodged against the Conference (NC) MLA Akbar Lone, who raised pro-Pakistan slogans in the state Assembly.

The MLCs further staged a protest demanding arrest of the NC MLA Akbar Lone and withdrawal of an FIR that has been filed against the Army in Shopian killing.

"An MLA who has taken oath in the name of the Constitution is raising pro-Pakistan slogans cannot be expected by anyone. We demand an FIR against the MLA and his suspension from the post," BJP MLA Ramesh Arora told media.

Expressing similar views, Surinder Ambardar told ANI, "NC MLA Mr Akbar Lone has violated the basic law of the Constitution by raising pro-Pakistan slogans. So, we believe that an FIR should be lodged."

Earlier on Sunday, NC President and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah disassociated Lone by saying, what the former said in the Assembly is not the opinion of their party.

On Saturday, the J&K Assembly witnessed a ruckus with Lone, raising pro-Pakistan slogans in response to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s slogans against the neighbouring country.

As the chaos increased, Speaker Kavinder Gupta adjourned the House for a while.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said the state government has decided to withdraw all cases registered in connection with the violence, which broke out during a Jat quota agitation in February 2016.

The decision was announced yesterday after Chief Minister Khattar, Union Minister Birender Singh, senior BJP leader Anil Jain, held a five-hour-long meeting with a jat delegation, led by All-India Jat Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti president Yashpal Malik in the capital.

"Cases lodged during reservation stir will be withdrawn. Regarding High Court decision on reservation to Jats and five other communities, we'll provide all figures to State Backward Classes Commission before March 31, so that final decision can be taken," Khattar told reporters here.

Khattar had invited Malik to hold talks with the Jats, who had threatened to disrupt the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief's proposed rally.

Earlier in the week, the Jat delegation had threatened to disrupt BJP chief Amit Shah's rally alleging non-fulfilment of their demands, after which Haryana had sought 150 companies of central forces as a preventive measure.

The Jat outfit had planned to take out their own rally in Jind on February 15 with 50,000 tractor-trolleys to disrupt Shah's bike rally.

The Haryana government had recently given its nod to the withdrawal of 70 FIRs registered in connection with the Jat quota stir violence.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on Monday reviewed themes, designs and plans for the Happy Cities Summit.

The Happy Cities Summit will be held from April 10 to 12, at A-1 Convention Center.

The theme of the summit is 'Urban Transformation to Global Living'.

Chief Minister Naidu also reviewed the status of the construction of roads around the capital region and directed officials to complete all the work by monsoon.

Officials from Dassault Systems, whom the Chief Minister met during the World Economic Forum in Davos also presented their Virtual 3D city proposal.

Chief Minister Naidu was informed that the implementation of the Virtual 3D system would help in providing live data of all the happenings in the city to the Government database and can be used to show real-time visuals.

This system would be helpful for monitoring and surveillance purposes. The Virtual 3D system would also help in planning and preparation for any impending natural disasters and can provide the government with live data on people's opinions and pulse using real- time tracking.

"I want the designs and visualizations to be futuristic. Take the best modules available from all over the world and simulate it in real time." said Chief Minister Naidu.

"This is an exciting project and I want it to be built in a way that gives scopes for future development as well", he added.

The Chief Minister also asked officials from Dassault Systems to prepare a demo of Virtual 3D City so that it can be demonstrated at the Happy Cities Summit in April.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress party on Monday attacked Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat over his controversial remarks on the Indian Army, further demanding his apology.

Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma tore into the Sangh for "insulting" the Indian Army, and further termed RSS chief's statement "shocking."

Addressing a press conference here, Anand Sharma said, "RSS chief is giving objectionable and upsetting remarks at a time when the terrorists have attacked the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar."

The leader of the grand old party demanded an apology from the RSS Chief for "disrespecting" the tricolour and Indian Army.

"RSS chief has committed a mistake and it should be rectified at the earliest, because it is not in the interest of the nation," Sharma said.

Bhagwat had said that workers of his organisation can be trained in three days if need arises, whereas the Army takes 6-7 months to become capable enough to defend country's borders.

Holding the Prime Minister accountable, he said that the former should make his stand clear as Bhagwat has raised questions on the capability of the Army.

"Does he (PM) want to hand over the charge of nation's security to RSS", Anand Sharma asked.

Earlier in the day Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted on the same, saying,, "The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army, #ApologiseRSS," he tweeted.

Meanwhile, RSS, clearing their stand on Mohan Bhagwat's remarks, said that his speech was being misrepresented, Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh, Manmohan Vaidya, read, "Bhagwat ji had said that if situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian army would take six months to prepare the society whereas Sangh Swayamsevaks can be trained in three days, as Swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly."

While the Congress party slammed the RSS Chief's statement, the Sangh parivar cleared their stand by saying that their Chief's statement has been misrepresented.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 45-year-old woman, working with the Income Tax Department, was on her way to work when she started experiencing pain in her back and chest and was sweating profusely.

She immediately called her family physician to seek an appointment to visit his clinic.

An ECG was conducted and it was revealed that she was experiencing a massive heart attack. She was immediately rushed to the Emergency Department at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, but she became unresponsive in the car on their way to the hospital.

She was brought to the Emergency Department while in the state of cardiac arrest. A team of doctors led by Dr Sandeep Gore, Head of Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, immediately began administering Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation(CPR) on the this patient.

Chest compressions were initiated and the patient was then intubated with ongoing CPR; necessary life-saving drugs were also administered. At intervals, the patient was administered shocks under continuous CPR assessment; it was after a duration of 60 minutes that the doctors were able to revive her. She was then moved to the CathLab where a Primary Angioplasty was conducted by Dr Hasmukh Ravat, Senior Interventional Cardiologist at the hospital.

It is understood that if the patient gets revived after prolonged CPR of 30 minutes, their neurological outcome is poor. Generally, patients do not have positive neurological impact after such a prolonged CPR episode, which is given only for a few minutes, but in this case, the patient beat all odds.

Good clinical acumen and timely intervention was the key to her survival. Doctors at the hospital concluded that there was no neurological deficit; it was noted that the patient responded positively to treatment and was discharged within seven days, she is now recuperating well.

As per the guidelines for a person having cardiac arrest outside the hospital, one should give CPR for up to 20 minutes. The success rate of CPR patients who get cardiac arrest outside the hospital and are then taken to the hospital in a state of cardiac arrest is just 5%.

Also, according to a study it is said that by 2030, India will have up to 60% percent of the world's total cardiac arrest patients which nearly accounts four times of the total population of the world. In India, more than 10 million cardiac cases are reported annually, especially with the age group of 60 year and above, are more affected by cardiac arrest.

Speaking about the case, Dr Sandeep Gore, Head of Emergency Department, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, said, "This case is a classic example to establish that chest and back pain should not be taken lightly; it is important that one gets evaluated in a timely manner to understand the root cause. In this case, CPR was given for more than 60 minutes, which is exemplary; the patient has done well and has been discharged with no neurological deficit. Timely medical intervention and clinical acumen are the key to having positive outcomes in such cases.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Smokers and drinkers should avoid hot tea, as, according to a study, it can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.

The cancer, which starts in the esophagus, was already known to be linked to drinking alcohol and smoking, but those risks are heightened by the addition of daily cups of "burning hot" tea, scientists discovered.

The risks to smokers also increase with high-temperature tea drinking, said the study, which examined data on 456,155 Chinese adults ages 30 to 79.

Lv Jun, of Peking University Health Science Centre in China, who co-authored the study, told The Telegraph: "Boiling hot tea will harm the cells in the oesophagus. "If the person also drinks alcohol and smokes, then the harm caused will be more heightened."

At the start of the study, none of the participants had cancer. Researchers followed half of the participants for at least nine years.

During the study, 1,731 people developed esophageal tumours.

Rates of the disease are relatively high in China, where tea drinking is common and many men smoke and drink.

Chinese people often drink tea from flasks that they carry with them to their workplace and regularly fill up with hot water.

Very few Chinese drink traditional British tea, which less hot than Chinese varieties as it also usually taken with cold milk.

People in Russia, Turkey and South America enjoy their tea very hot, with many regularly drinking it at temperatures above 149 degrees Fahrenheit (65 degrees Celsius).

Past research has shown that tea can help to protect against tumours in the digestive tract.

But studies have also suggested that hot liquids and food can cause "thermal injury" which can increase the risk factors associated with cancer.

The findings have been published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Farooq Abdullah on Monday condemned recent terror attacks and presaged Pakistan of dire consequences.

"If terrorism keeps on increasing so will the difficulties, but it is their country that will have to face more difficulties," Abdullah told media here.

"They won't have anything left. If the condition remains the same then India's leadership would also have to think about the next step," he added.

Abdullah's statements come after, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) on Monday claimed the responsibility of the recent terror attacks at Sunjwan Army Camp and Karan Nagar CRPF camp.

One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel lost his life in the ongoing encounter at the 23 Bn CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar, where two armed-terrorists were spotted in the wee hours of Monday.

Earlier on Saturday, terrorists barged into the Sunjwan army camp in Jammu, killing five security personnel and one civilian. Six army personnel and six civilians are injured.

Four terrorists belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) were gunned down.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In the growing digital era, it has become important for any to have an online presence. There are many companies providing a platform to skilled artisans and small vendors to reach the masses. These companies are empowering sellers to sell all over India in just a few clicks and make a profitable

Here are top 5 online platforms that are helping local vendors to turn their more profitable:

Roposo

Roposo, 'Tv by the people' is a unique platform which allows people to showcase their talent, and express themselves freely by sharing their thoughts with millions of others on the platform. 'The Bazaar' channel in the platform allows local vendors to sell their products to 7.5 million users of Roposo. Not only this, people can easily chat with the vendors to know the features and quality of the product before buying one.

Amazon

Selling products on Amazon is the easiest, the most convenient and an inexpensive way of starting a business online. As an Amazon seller, one can create an account for free, list the products, start selling online and increase the sales and profit.

Craftsvilla.com

CraftsVilla is an online marketplace to discover India. The website sells products like traditional apparels like sarees, hand crafted gift items, home decor and accessories. The products come from individual suppliers and artisans who are working with traditional Indian handicrafts and arts.

Rediff Shopping

It is a marketplace platform for selling online. Be it a manufacturer, vendor or supplier, one can simply sell the product online on Rediff Shopping and grow business with minimum investment. All one need to do is register, list catalogue and start selling products.

Snapdeal

With its vision to create India's most impactful digital commerce ecosystem that creates life-changing experiences for buyers and sellers Snapdeal started in February 2010. It is an online marketplace, with the products across diverse categories from regional, national, and international brands and retailers where people can sell and buy products.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)At least four men were on Sunday arrested in Haryana's Gurugram city for allegedly molesting a South Korean woman.

The men were arrested for thrashing her and her friend on Delhi-Jaipur highway near Manesar on Saturday, police said.

Further investigation is on.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Block-chain based healthcare startup on Monday announced raising USD 15 million in the bounty program of its pre-initial capital offering campaign in Estonia.

Healthureum conducted the campaign from November to December last year.

The company will now host a token generation event scheduled for February third week.

The company aims at eliminating malpractices and errors to ensure efficiency in the operational procedures of the healthcare sector.

The next initial capital offering by the company will be conducted from 26 February 2018 till 1 April 2018 with an appreciated token price at USD 3.95 from a previous USD 3.53.

"We are positive that the establishment of a decentralised framework will induce a chain reaction to rejuvenate the operational and administrative procedures in both institutions and the bureaucracy not only in the west but across countries," said Ritu Tyagi, director of marketing, Healthureum.

However, the company is further looking towards the implementation of the Alpha model of block-chain technology in the hospitals by November 2018.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In an attempt to achieve a Guinness world record through the swach sarvekshan, around 15,000 students here on Monday began a cleanliness drive.

The students along with Telangana Home Minister Nayani Narasimha Reddy, Deputy Chief Minister Mohammed Mehmood Ali, GHMC commissioner Janardhan Reddy and Information and Technology Minister KT Rama Rao cleaned Hyderabad roads for three minutes.

Rao in the drive called for the Hyderabad metropolis to top in terms of cleanliness. Hyderabad was in 2017 among the cleanest metro cities in India.

"Prior to the start of the Independence of India, the Clean Hyderabad programme was reminiscent of Chief Minister Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao. The city is divided into 400 units under pure Hyderabad and emphasised continuous efforts to keep the city clean in collaboration with Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC)," he said.

The IT minister said Hyderabad had the population of a crore people and that 22,000 cleaners were not enough to clean the city. The minister called on the students to help in making the city clean.

The students, as well as Rao, made a purity pledge, saying: "I will separate the wet, dry garbage in the house. I will make manure with wet garbage. I will not urine in the open space. We will bring consciousness without letting others go. Plastic bags should not be used. Plastic bags are used for packing curries and goods instead we should make use of jute or cloth bags. The pan does not eat and spit in open places. Smoking cigarette in a public place is the prohibited. I will put home construction waste in government places. Shoot the trash. I will not pollute the environment that Hyderabad's metropolis keeps clean.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Indian Cultural Centre, Embassy of India in Kathmandu has showcased the Odissi dance recitals at a cultural event which was organized to celebrate '70 years of diplomatic ties between India and Nepal' and 'Maha Shivaratri Festival' at Nepal Army Auditorium.

According to the local media reports, the event, organised on February 10, featured the most versatile 10-member Odissi dance troupe led by Dr. Sujata Mishra from Odissa.

The students and artists of Indian Cultural Centre performed various folk dance forms as well.

According to reports, Veteran Nepali actress Mithila Sharma was present at the event as the chief guest and inaugurated the function together with Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri.

As close neighbours, India and Nepal share a unique relationship of friendship and cooperation characterised by deeply rooted people-to-people contacts of kinship and culture.

To this end, the dance performance by the Odissi dance troupe from India was an effort of the Indian Cultural Centre aiming at further cementing the bilateral relations.

The visit of the 10-member Odissi troupe led by Dr. Sujata Mishra was supported by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), according to local media.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Recognising their common responsibility towards promoting regional peace and security, India and Oman underlined the importance of further cementing bilateral strategic engagement in the areas of security and defence.

Both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in the fields of law enforcement, anti-money laundering and prevention of smuggling of currency, drug trafficking, human trafficking, illegal migration and other transnational organised crimes.

The two sides agreed to provide further impetus to the robust defence relations, including through regular holding of joint exercises by the three defence forces, training of navy, air and army officials and cooperation in the area of coastal defence and through participation in defence exhibitions.

Expressing serious concerns at the misuse of cyber space as a medium to promote subversive and extremist ideologies, the two sides acknowledged the importance of enhancing cooperation in field of cyber security and mandated the concerned officials to hold discussions to identify avenues for cooperation.

The two countries agreed to enhance cooperation to strengthen maritime security in the Gulf and the Indian Ocean regions, vital for the security and prosperity of both countries.

They further agreed to promote bilateral collaboration for humanitarian assistance and evacuation in natural disasters and conflict situations.

Oman acknowledged the opportunities offered under the 'Make in India' initiative for joint production of defence equipment in India and also for the procurement of defence material from India. The two sides agreed to explore further opportunities in these areas of common interest.

The 'Make in India' initiative was launched by the Centre in 2014 to encourage companies to manufacture their products in India.

The objective of the initiative are- job creation and skill enhancement in 25 sectors of the economy, improving the quality standards and minimising the impact on the environment and to attract capital and technological investment in India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India and Oman on Monday agreed to cooperate in the energy and Information Technology (IT) sectors respectively.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered to share India's experience and capabilities with Oman in the development of its renewable sources of energy, such as solar and wind power to name a few.

He invited Oman to participate in building strategic oil reserves in India. The King of Oman, Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said briefed Prime Minister Modi on Oman's own initiative to create its strategic oil reserves in Ras Markaz near Duqm in Oman.

Also, the two sides agreed for mutual cooperation in building their strategic oil reserves.

Oman noted India's globally recognised capabilities in the research and development of space infrastructure, space technologies and space applications and thanked India for its offer to assist in the development of Oman's capabilities, a joint statement was issued after Prime Minister Modi's visit to Oman.

This includes training and human resource development for use of space technologies and applications for developmental and other purposes.

Recognising India's strength in the services sector, the two sides underlined the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the areas of Information Technology (IT)and IT-enabled services and financial services, including banking services, insurance and capital markets.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two terrorists, carrying bags and armed with AK47s, were seen approaching towards CRPF camp in Srinagar in the wee hours of Monday.

The sentries immediatetly opened fire at around 4.30 am, after which the terrorist fled from the spot.

A search operation in and around the camp is underway.

Earlier on Saturday, terrorists stormed the Sunjwan army camp in Jammu, killing five security personnel and one civilian. Six army personnel and six civilians are injured.

Four terrorists have been gunned down.

As of now, the combing operations underway at the Sunjwan Army Camp.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Monday said the Indian Army should be kept out of

While commenting about Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's remark on the Indian Army, Tharoor said, "People who say these things that disparage the army are only able to sleep soundly at night because our Army protects our country."

Tharoor also said, comparing the Army unfavourably with the RSS is unworthy.

Grieving for the loss of lives in the latest attack in Jammu and Kashmir, Tharoor called for more effective policy.

"Does anyone remember the surgical strikes and the whole hailstorm of publicity that followed in which the government said this will put an end to all sorts of incursions and we have taught them (terrorists) a lesson, but they don't seem to have learnt that lesson," he said.

"They seem to have learnt some other lesson that this is a government of publicity and not a government of action," he added.

At least five army personnel and a civilian were killed when terrorists in Indian Army fatigue early on Saturday attacked Sunjuwan military base in Jammu region.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The London City airport was shut down by the authorities on Sunday evening after a bomb, dating to the era of the Second War, was found by the construction authorities near the Thames River.

The construction workers then immediately reported the matter to the authorities. The London Metropolitan Police and the Royal Navy were called in after the bomb was discovered. Other authorities were called in later and confirmed the nature of the bomb after investigation, the CNN reported.

In a series of tweets by the London City airport, it wrote, "STATEMENT from Robert Sinclair, CEO of London City Airport: "The airport remains closed this morning following the discovery of a War Two ordnance in King George V Dock on Sunday. (1/3)"

"All flights in and out of London City on Monday are cancelled and an exclusion zone is in place in the immediate area. I urge any passengers due to fly today not to come to the airport and to contact their airline for further information. (2/3)"

"I recognise this is causing inconvenience for our passengers, and in particular some of our local residents. The airport is cooperating fully with the Met Police and Royal Navy and working hard to safely remove the device and resolve the situation as quickly as possible." (3/3)"

According to the Metropolitan Police, the operations on removing the bomb are ongoing. It said that the discovery of the bomb was reported early on Sunday, at around 5 am (local time), and the exclusion zone was put in place at 10 am (local time).

"The Royal Navy has implemented the 214-meter exclusion zone to ensure that the ordnance can be safely dealt with whilst limiting any risk to the public," the police said in a statement.

The London City Airport is a small two-storey international airport located in the Newham Borough of East London. The area was heavily industrialised and highly populated during the Second War.

The Royal Docks, where the runways are now located, was the main entry point for goods on the Thames River.

The airport is one of the six airports that serve the city- Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Southend and Stansted. It is the fifth busiest airport in London and 13th busiest in the UK.

The airport is much smaller than the Heathrow Airport and caters mostly to business travelers heading to destinations in the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States.

In July 2016, a 400 million pound expansion was approved by the UK Government, which also includes the extension of the runway and the terminal.

With the expansion scheduled to be completed by 2025, two more million passengers are expected to use the airport, along with 30,000 additional flights annually.

Last year, more than 4.5 million passengers had used the London City Airport.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Loyakk Inc., the provider of enterprise relationship management applications, announced Vega, the world's first blockchain-enabled Enterprise Relationship Management solution for decentralized business networks.

There will be a pool of one billion tokens of which 183 Million are being offered for purchase in this Initial Coin Offering (ICO).

Loyakk has leading global companies as customers and is managed by a world-class team with experience at companies such as SAP, IBM, Oracle-Siebel, VMware, ETrade and HP. The company is backed by a global advisory team of seasoned luminaries in business and

Loyakk is building transformative 'Enterprise Value Webs', which are decentralized, distributed, digital ecosystem structures, powered and protected by blockchain technology, said Salim Ali, CEO, Loyakk, Inc.

"Our patent-pending and solutions helps adapt blockchain to transform the way enterprises and their partners across industries create and distribute value to their customers," he added.

In recent years, Blockchain as a means to enable secure, confidential and provenance-enabled transactions across all industries has come to the fore. In India too, Blockchain has caught the eye of powers-that-be. The finance minister, in his recent budget speech spoke about the government's intent to "usher in the digital economy though Blockchain technology", thereby emitting a rally cry for the public and private sectors to jump on to the blockchain bandwagon.

For the Indian government, blockchain offers an intermediary-less, fully secure way to digitise public records and social security data like Aadhar. With its 'Make in India' drive, the Government can encourage manufacturers across all industries to adopt blockchain technology and smart contracts as part of their digitisation process. The service sector too has a lot to benefit from adopting blockchain technology especially in areas of banking and finance, insurance, telecom, infrastructure and more.

"The blockchain-powered Vega Enterprise Relationship Platform offers a secure, data repository on Blockchain that will power Value Webs where Enterprises can share sensitive business data and insights across their business ecosystem and use smart contracts to seamlessly conduct business," said Salim Ali.

Loyakk Ltd. and IStrategies UK will be leveraging this technology and offering an ICO for the Vega project with its breakthrough, patent-pending blockchain-enabled platform for building and managing decentralised business networks.

The Loyakk ICO opens on February 23, 2018.

"Blockchain-powered business networks are a very compelling notion when you consider the needs of business to streamline & secure interactions across the business partner network. Loyakk's vision and platform to create decentralised Value Webs holds much potential," said Anthony Thomas, Global CIO, Nissan Motors and advisor to Loyakk.

The Loyakk Vega blockchain-powered Value Webs will ensure permissioned access for data sharing, value movement and automated business processes via smart contracts so that enterprises can seamlessly conduct business with anyone across the world with unprecedented security and efficiency.

"By reimagining how businesses interact and move data and value between organisations using blockchain, Loyakk has a commendable goal that is grounded in clear thinking and deep enterprise DNA," said Jonathan Becher, ex Chief Digital Officer of SAP and also an advisor to Loyakk.

Loyakk has established multiple technology, services and go-to-market partnerships with leading IT service providers, blockchain technology developers and industry-focused solutions consultants to deliver relevant solutions to customers across industries, globally.

All details regarding the token supply and allocations are available within the Tokenomics document published on http://www.loyakk.io.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)At a time when several parts of the country have begun to celebrate the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) culture and pride, Lucknow is not lagging far behind.

A queer pride parade was held in Uttar Pradesh's capital on Sunday that painted the town rainbow!

Parade-goers marched on with rainbow flags and placards, with messages in support of the LGBTQ community.

"Nawabi queers will crush the patriarchy," said one of the placards.

Another placard read, "All parents should be aware that when they mock or curse queer people, they may be mocking their own child."

Recently, Guwahati also held its own queer pride parade.

Meanwhile, metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Kolkata have been holding pride parades for quite a long time now.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday accused the media of creating a hostile environment, wherein anyone who mulls to initiate dialogue with Pakistan is dubbed as "anti-national".

Mehbooba while addressing the state assembly said, "Unfortunately, some media houses have created an atmosphere that if we talk of dialogue (with Pakistan) then we are labelled anti- "

While asserting that, peace can only be restored through the medium of dialogue, Mehbooba further urged the media to help in bringing back peace in the valley.

"We fought and won all wars against Pakistan but even now today there is no solution other than dialogue, till when will our jawans and civilians keep dying," she said.

Today was the last day of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) on Monday claimed the responsibility of the recent terror attacks at Sunjwan Army Camp and Karan Nagar CRPF camp.

In recent developments, one CRPF personnel lost his life in the ongoing encounter at the 23 Bn CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar, where two armed-terrorists were spotted in the wee hours of Monday.

Earlier on Saturday, terrorists barged into the Sunjwan army camp in Jammu, killing five security personnel and one civilian.

Four terrorists belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) were also gunned down.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A group of veteran defence personnel conducted a peace protest at Mumbai on Monday to demand the withdrawal of the FIR against Major Aditya Kumar and the army in connection with the firing at Shopian last month.

They demanded an unconditional withdrawal of the FIR, terming it to be illegal.

A veteran army person told ANI, "We are sitting on dharna to demand the withdrawal of the illegal FIR against Major Aditya Kumar. "

Another Navy veteran deplored this action and condemned the government to levy charges against the Army for conducting their duties.

He said that "Section 302 for murder and Section 306 for an attempt to murder have been applied on the accused of carrying out their duties which could have serious implications for the country in future".

On Friday, father of Major Aditya Kumar had filed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking the withdrawal of an FIR against his son.

The Supreme Court today stayed the FIR against Major Aditya and issued notice to the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government, seeking reply in two weeks.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Nepal stated that China has extended a huge market next door if the Himalayan nation is able to exploit proximity with China.

Nepal's Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun said China is ready to offer huge market next door for Nepal, China's news agency Xinhua quoted.

China is the second largest trading partner of Nepal after India.

As of first half of the current fiscal year that began in mid-July 2017, Nepal has imported goods worth 656.86 million U.S. dollars from China against exports worth 15.19 million U.S. dollars, according to Nepal's Department of Customs.

Responding on the trade deficit with China, Vice President Pun said that the population of China next door offered a large market for Nepali products which Nepal should be able to cash in on, Xinhua quoted.

China has also offered duty-free access to more than 8,000 Nepali goods.

Speaking at the inaugural session of meeting of the Nepal Trans Himalaya Border Commerce Association, an umbrella organisation of the traders involved in Nepal-China trade, Pun said Nepal could achieve economic development and prosperity by boosting exports like China did, Xinhua quoted.

Currently, Rasuwagadhi-Geelong is the only border point operating between the two countries for the international trade.

The border point was affected by a devastating earthquake in 2015, but reopened a few months later.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Newgen Software Technologies Limited, provider of Process Management (BPM) and Enterprise Content Management platform - celebrated its 25th Anniversary with fun, frolic and excitement at an evening marked by sizzling performance of Punjabi Squad - Tochi Raina, Ramji Gulati and Neeru Rawal.

The exhilarating occasion was organized by Newgen Employee Welfare Society (NEWS) which promotes the spirit of celebrations among Newgen employees, besides offering them a distinct platform to learn and grow together. Over 1200 employees of the company attended the event which also witnessed a galaxy of eminent personalities and the leading lights of the industry.

With much liveliness and a sense of accomplishment amidst cheering crowd, Diwakar Nigam, MD and Chairman, Newgen Software said, "We are celebrating 25 years of success and innovation. I take this opportunity to congratulate all our employees and associates on reaching this important milestone and look forward to continue our tradition of revolutionising the growth in software product industry across the world."

"We as an organization provide an environment which helps employees to realize their potential and make them go a step ahead towards self-development. We sincerely believe that energetic employees positively influence productivity - morale - vision of the company" adds Nigam.

The hard work, dedication and the commitment of Newgenites towards achieving excellence have been the key driving force behind the company's impressive growth in all these years. Saluting the true spirit of this glorious journey, all the offices of the company ushered in week long celebrations through in house events culminating in a grand crescendo.

Newgen, an ISO 9001:2008, ISO 27001:2013 certified company and recognized by distinguished analyst firms including Gartner and Forrester, believes in creating a workplace where individual determination and brilliance find expression and it continuously thrives on creating a culture that attracts people with multidimensional skills and experiences.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain on Monday signed an ordinance, aimed at cracking down on terrorist organisations and its individuals, which have been banned by United Nations Security Council (UNSC), according to sources.

According to the ordinance, it amends a section of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), enabling the authorities to take action against the UNSC-proscribed individuals and terror outfits such as sealing their offices and freezing their bank accounts, the Express Tribune reported.

The sources in the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) confirmed the new move, saying the ministries of Interior, Finance and Foreign Affairs, as well as NACTA's Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) wing were working on the matter.

A spokesperson for President Hussain refused to share further details on the ordinance, saying the defence ministry was the notifying authority.

According to sources, the authorities are bound under international obligations and have sweeping powers to take legal actions against the terrorist organisations under the framework of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which is an international body that cracks down on money laundering and terrorist financing.

The UNSC sanctions' list includes dreaded terrorist organisations such as al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ), Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) to name a few.

The LeT, which is responsible for numerous terror attacks in India, was declared "banned" under the UNSC resolution 1267 in 2005.

In December last year, the Pakistan Government had planned to take over two charities belonging to Hafiz Saeed, the 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind, the JuD and the FIF. An action plan was supposed to be submitted by the government, regarding this move.

In the NACTA website, the JuD and the FIF are on the "watch list" category.

The United States' Department in 2014 had named the JuD as "foreign terrorist organisation", a status that freezes assets of the organisation under its jurisdiction.

Saeed, who had recently been released from house arrest, is also looking to contest the 2018 general elections in Pakistan and has, thereby, formed a party by the name of Milli Muslim League (MML).

Pakistan prohibited the JuD and FIF from collecting donations from individuals and companies last month.

India has, time and again, protested against Pakistan for harbouring Saeed, who is wanted for plotting the 2008 attack.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said Pakistan will pay for the attack at an Indian Army base in Jammu region which claimed six lives.

Addressing a press briefing regarding the Sunjwan base attack and combing operation conducted by the Indian Army, the Defence Minister repeatedly said: "Pakistan will have to pay for the misadventure."

At least five army personnel and a civilian were killed in the attack at Sanjuwan Army base early on Saturday morning.

"Intelligence inputs show that terrorists were controlled by their handlers from across the border. The evidence is being scrutinised by the Investigation Agency (NIA)."

The Defence Minister said Pakistan was expanding the arch of terror to areas south of Pir Panjal, and the Pakistani Army resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration.

"Terrorists belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), which is sponsored by Masood Azhar. He resides in Pakistan and derives support from there," Sitharaman said in Jammu.

The Defence Minister further said, all the evidence have been compiled and will definitely be given to Pakistan. "Even after giving dossiers after dossiers, Pakistan has not taken any action."

She said giving the evidence to Pakistan was a continuous process. "It has to be proved over and over again that they were responsible for the attack."

The Defence Minister while visiting victims in the Military Hospital in Jammu said her heart went out to the courageous soldiers who sacrifice so much for the safety of the nation.

She said three terrorists had been eliminated though there were reports of four.

"The fourth terrorist must have been a guide and may not have entered the Camp area," she explained.

The counter-terrorist operation at the base was called off on Monday at 10.30 a.m. The sanitisation operation is however on, she added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque here on Monday.

He was accompanied by the King of Oman, Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said and other officials.

After visiting the mosque, Prime Minister Modi signed the visitors' book and met supporters at the mosque.

He then boarded the Air India One plane back to New Delhi. He is scheduled to arrive in the evening.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi on Monday visited the 125-year-old Shiva Temple in the Matrah area of Old Muscat. He also met with a group of the Indian community outside the temple.

This completes the four-nation tour of the Prime Minister, which took him to Jordan, Palestine, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman between February 9 to 12.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A group of people torched a bus in Uttar Pradesh's Allahabad on Monday in a protest against the death of a law student of Allahabad University.

The 26-year-old Dilip Saroj succumbed to his injuries yesterday after being thrashed by a group of people during an argument in Allahabad's Katra Bazar on Saturday.

The Uttar Pradesh Police on Sunday arrested the main accused in the case after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

The police also identified, Vijay Shankar, a Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) as one of the attackers.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday said Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh(RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat should apologise for insulting the Indian Army in a speech he made on Sunday

Mohan Bhagwat while addressing a gathering at Muzaffarpur, Bihar yesterday, said the RSS could create an army within three days if need be, and that every RSS person was disciplined to sacrifice his/her life for the nation.

Gandhi said the RSS chief has insulted the army personnel and "Bhagwat should not only apologise to the Indian Army but also the Navy and the Air Force for making such a statement".

"He has made a wrong statement regarding those who protect our nation."

In a reaction to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments on the Congress chief's temple visits, Rahul Gandhi said Modi should not be talking about him but corruption prevailing in his government.

Gandhi said the Prime Minister must explain the people of Karnataka why his government's four ministers were in jail and 11 of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ministers resigned over corruption charges.

He said the Prime Minister needs to talk about the Rafale deal and explain "why its contract was taken away from the HAL and given to his friend".

While launching his party campaign at Hosapete in Ballari district, Rahul said the BJP had taken away employment opportunities from the youth of Karnataka by taking away the Rafale aircraft contract from Bengaluru-based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, a defence Public Sector Undertaking which has been making aircraft for the Indian Air Force for 70 years.

"The Prime Minister says every year that he will give employment to two crore youth. China gives employment to 50,000 youth in 24 hours; Narendra Modi gives employment to 450 people in 24 hours. This is the truth of the PM," he said in Raichur.

The Congress president said Corruption was the "biggest issue in India". He asked the Prime Minister to explain "how BJP president Amit Shah's son Jay Shah converted 50,000 into 80 crore when the country was going into losses due to demonetisation and Gabbar Singh Tax".

Rahul Gandhi also said that he liked going to temples and would continue doing that as it made him happy.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)American School of Bombay, India's premier international school, today hosted the Mumbai leg of the 2018 IC3 Regional Forums, which saw participation from more than 60 educators from across the world including 30 educators from Maharashtra.

Educators deliberated at length on issues that directly affect career development and college admissions of the ever-growing student population in India.

The IC3 Regional Forums is a first-of-its-kind initiative that brings together career counselors, teachers, school principals and university admissions leaders.

The primary aim of this forum is to provide access to holistic college counseling to students across the world through empowering the high schools.

Apart from India, these IC3 Regional Forums will also be held at high schools across south Asia, southeast Asia, and the middle east countries.

The day-long workshop saw experienced career advisors and university representatives from around the world exchange ideas driving the latest global trends in the field of career counseling, and discuss ways to incorporate global insights into the system in India.

The participants emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for students to explore their interests by relying on their natural strengths and aptitudes.

Delegates agreed on the urgent need to set up counseling offices in high schools and provide access to career counseling and college admissions guidance, considering the growing complexity of making career choices in an environment of increasing uncertainty.

The event was also marked by the presence of over 26 university admissions representatives from five countries, including over 15 universities from the U.S.

"The IC3 Regional Forums are a movement toward transforming young lives and shaping careers. Our aim is to empower schools and help them set up dedicated career-counseling departments as the first step and equip career counselors with up-to-date knowledge, tools, and comprehensive guidelines on best practices," said IC3 Conference Chair; president and chief mentor, KIC UnivAssist and former high school college counsellor, Ganesh Kohli.

The event was marked by the presence of some of the most acclaimed schools and universities from both India and across the world.

"Preparing our learners for their futures has never been more exciting. It's clear that our students' career paths will be much more fluid than in the past. Helping young people to understand themselves and what they need to be successful is the all-important job of the career and college counselor. We are excited to be a part of a platform like IC3 Regional Forum that is spreading the message far and wide," said acting head, American School of Bombay, Fiona Reynolds.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) has objected to Director General (DG) of Border Security Force (BSF) attending an RSS-backed NGO's event in Kolkata.

"DG BSF goes to an event in his uniform, an event by an RSS-backed NGO! We object to it. TMC (delegation) will meet the Home Minister to raise this issue," TMC MP Derek O'Brien told ANI.

O'Brien also flagged the issue on Twitter, Sunday evening, "#BREAKING What is a serving BSF DG, KK Sharma, doing in uniform at "RSS-backed NGO's function in Kolkata"?We will take issue to Home Minister."

BSF DG KK Sharma on Sunday attended a conference on border issues, organised by Seemanta Chetana Mancha, an NGO affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

The TMC's objection to the army officer's attendance at the event stems from the fact that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat earlier the same day claimed that his organisation was capable of preparing military personnel within three days for which the Indian army would take six to seven months.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In wake of snowfall in Srinagar, traffic movement has been suspended on Srinagar-Jammu highway on Monday.

"Due to slippery conditions and fresh snowfall in Jawahar tunnel area, traffic movement has been suspended on Srinagar-Jammu highway," said SSP Traffic Highway.

Srinagar has turned into a winter wonderland, with the onset of fresh snowfall.

Locals and tourists have expressed their happiness on the fresh snowfall in Srinagar.

While the tourists are enjoying the weather, the localities are happy that the snowfall will attract more tourists.

Several places in Shimla are also witnessing fresh snowfall.

The change in climate has resulted in a sudden fall in temperature in many states of North India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah on Monday claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will win in the Tripura election 2018 and form government in the state.

Election to the 60-member Tripura Assembly would be held on February 18, while the counting of votes will be done on March 3.

"Next government in Tripura will be of the BJP. There is anger against the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) government throughout the state. Because of their misrule Tripura stands last, when it comes to development," Shah said in a press conference in Agartala.

He further lashed out at the CPI(M) government, saying that it has been fueling violence, but the BJP will effectively fight against it.

"One of our booth workers was abducted. For two days he was untraceable. After our workers pressurised the Director General of Police (DGP), we got to know that he was killed and hung on a tree by CPI(M) cadre. Authorities here work under CPI(M)'s pressure," Shah added.

"Violence and Left party are closely related. We are not afraid of them. People of Tripura are with us and change is certain in Tripura," the BJP chief said.

The BJP is contesting in 51 seats, while its alliance partner Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) has fielded candidates in nine seats.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) has a strong foothold in Tripura and is in power for the past 25 years. In the 2013 polls, the CPI(M) managed to bag a majority with 51 seats, while the rest was shared by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Congress party.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)United States President Donald Trump has offered his condolences and prayers to all in connection with the killing of two Ohio police officers.

Trump took to Twitter to write about the call with Ohio Governor John Kasich about the "horrible" shooting.

"Just spoke to @JohnKasich to express condolences and prayers to all for the horrible shooting of two great police officers from @WestervillePD. This is a true tragedy!," Trump tweeted.

Trump also tweeted his sympathies for the Westerville community, located just north of Columbus, on Saturday.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the two police officers, their families, and everybody at the @WestervillePD," the president wrote.

Two police officers responding to a call in Westerville, Ohio, were shot and killed on Saturday.

Officials have identified the officers as Officer Anthony Morelli and Officer Eric Joering.

Joering had served as an officer for 17 years, whereas Morelli had been with the force for 30 years.

According to the Hill, a suspect has been taken into custody.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special court on Monday allowed AgustaWestland chopper scam accused, Shivani Saxena, to travel abroad for medical treatment.

Saxena is the director of two Dubai-based firms M/s UHY Saxena and M/s Matrix Holdings and is an accused in the money laundering case pertaining to the chopper deal scam.

Earlier on February 9, a Delhi Court sought the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) response on the plea filed by Saxena.

Saxena was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate from Chennai on July 17 last year and granted bail by the Delhi High Court on December 15 on various conditions, including that she will not leave the country without the court's permission.

According to the case filed by the Enforcement Directorate, UK-based AgustaWestland International Limited had paid 58 million euros as kickbacks through Tunisia-based Gordian Services Sarl and IDS Sarl.

These companies siphoned off the money in the name of consultancy contracts to Interstellar Technologies Ltd and others and the funds were further transferred to UHY Saxena and Matrix Holdings Ltd in Dubai.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Chinese social media app WeChat is reportedly gaining popularity in Bhutan.

WeChat has become one of the popular social media apps among residents of Bhutan, reported China's state-run news agency Xinhua.

The app's "hold to talk service" gives an edge to it as the service is not just user-friendly but requires no ability to write, thereby making it popular among illiterates and semi-literates, the report said.

The instant messaging app not only comes with "hold to talk" feature but also has standard communication features like free calling, text messaging and video chat. All users have to do is select a contact, press the button, and speak.

According to the report, another reason which helps the Chinese social media giant earn the limelight is the fact that it does not require an excellent Internet connection.

One "could upload videos and photographs with slight network connection even from high mountains, said highlander Zangmo.

"WeChat" was introduced in 2011 and as per the record, it has now become one of the largest standalone messaging apps by monthly active users counting to be over 963 million monthly

Bhutan is one of the last countries to open to Internet services. It was only in 1999, that the country had access to the Internet, the report said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Wydr.in, a wholesale marketplace, announced that it has raised a fresh round of funding from its existing investors, and plans to utilise this to strengthen its seller base, set up pan-India offices and further strengthen its product and technology to penetrate deeper in the Indian wholesale market.

"With over 1.2 million downloads, our belief that there is a market need for a platform that allows manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers to connect and transact directly and safely has been validated. On the seller side, large manufacturers from key hubs across the country are already on Wydr.in platform. We are working with brands to explore new ways of partnering and creating distribution inroads to every corner of the country," said Devesh Rai, founder and CEO of Wydr.in.

Wydr.in is a B2B app-based marketplace for retailers and wholesalers to buy directly from distributors and manufacturers. Retailers in over 2,000 cities across India have sourced products at wholesale prices in categories like fashion, home, automotive and electronics directly from manufacturing and trading hubs; including Surat, Jaipur, Agra and New Delhi.

Wydr.in allows buyers to connect with sellers on WydrChat to customise their requirements, negotiate prices and instantly close deals. It gives the users the feel and experience of a real wholesale market, without the troubles of visiting the market. Buyers can also claim Input Tax Credit under the GST regime.

In tune with the needs of the retailers and local wholesalers, buying on the platform is enabled in various size and color assortments, slab-based pricing and other features.

The investors include Bessemer Venture Partners, Stellaris Venture Partners, Axis Capital, Singapore and Jungle Venture Partners, who had funded the company earlier in November 2016.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Cadila Healthcare rose 3.86% to Rs 426.90 at 9:34 IST on BSE after the company said its Moraiya facility successfully completed US drug regulator's inspection.

The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 248.86 points, or 0.73% to 34,254.62.

On the BSE, 29,000 shares were traded in the counter so far compared with average daily volumes of 1.10 lakh shares in the past two weeks. The stock had hit a high of Rs 433.05 and a low of Rs 421.65 so far during the day. The stock hit a record high of Rs 558 on 12 June 2017. The stock hit a 52-week low of Rs 356.30 on 16 February 2017.

Cadila Healthcare announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) inspected the company's Moraiya facility in Gujarat from 5 February to 9 February 2018. At the end of the inspection, no observation (483) was issued.

On a consolidated basis, net profit of Cadila Healthcare rose 71.64% to Rs 542.90 crore on 41.88% rise in net sales to Rs 3191.80 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016.

Cadila Healthcare is a global pharmaceutical company that discovers, develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of healthcare therapies.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The possible switch to pay-as-you-use toll policy from the current open/flat rate tolling system, announced in the FY19 union budget, could reduce revenue potential for roads and bring a paradigm shift in the way of operations, says India Rating and Research (Ind-Ra). However, this policy is favourable for passenger car units as the traveller would pay only for the distance travelled. This move could also aid in arresting traffic leakages in some routes to a certain extent, provided the economics favour the usage of the stretch.

Ind-Ra expects the pay-as-you-use toll policy to roll-out in prospective bids/projects. If applied for the existing contracts, the toll road operators will have to be compensated adequately by the concession-granting authority for the revenue loss as per the Change in Law provision under the Concession Agreement. In the event of no commonly acceptable approach to both the concessionaire and concession grantor authority or reduced compensation, there could be some impact on the cash flows. However, in many of the toll stretches, traffic from towns/cities/industrial centres either ingress or egress into the tollable stretch at various points. Therefore, operationalisation of this new policy could be cumbersome, unless adequate infrastructure is put in place.

The agency awaits clarity on the implementation plan and would evaluate repercussions individually on the cash flows of the project, if implemented on the existing projects. Also, the government's plan to compensate the concessionaire due to the change in tolling policy would be a key monitorable.

The government is planning to implement this policy on pilot basis using global positioning system (GPS)-based tolling on the Delhi-Mumbai corridor. GPS-based tolling will be fully automatic and commuters account will be deducted for the distance travelled.

While the measure to implement radio-frequency identification linked FASTag is yet to provide salutary effect on the tolls, this policy change could be seen as an extension.

Given the FASTag fixation is gaining momentum, not many changes would be required to comply with from a traveller's perspective. However, the implementation of the same would be a challenge for concessionaire.

Firstly, the current roads will have to spend additional capital expenditure for installation of GPS-based toll collection system or for making the roads access controlled. Anecdotal evidences suggest that pay-as-you-use is adopted in access controlled expressways such as Yamuna Expressway, Mumbai Pune Expressway and Hyderabad Outer Ring Road. Secondly, until now, the traffic studies have been forecasting vehicular movements passing through the road stretch; this move would impel the forecasters to prepare the traffic travelling till every exit point. The commercial traffic dominates the majority of the road stretches and is generally through traffic. This traffic originates either from ports or industrial towns and plies through road to cities or other industrial towns. Therefore, the agency believes that passenger cars would benefit from the proposed policy.

Many of the developers/investors have enhanced their vehicle and toll monitoring system through latest technologies such as transponders. However, complete revamping of the existing system is unlikely. Nevertheless, many roads operated by traditional developers continue to lag behind in terms of embracing the new technology measures.

Similar policies are followed in the US, China and European countries. Ind-Ra believes that pilot study on Delhi-Mumbai corridor before rollout, would help to find the pitfalls and address issues before scale up.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Larsen & Toubro rose 1.66% to Rs 1,351.45 at 11:21 IST on BSE after the company said its subsidiary secured an order valued more than Rs 2200 crore.

The announcement during trading hours today, 12 February 2018.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 236.13 points, or 0.69% to 34,241.89.

On the BSE, 53,000 shares were traded in the counter so far compared with average daily volumes of 3.76 lakh shares in the past one quarter. The stock had hit a high of Rs 1,355 and a low of Rs 1,333 so far during the day. The stock hit a record high of Rs 1,469.60 on 1 February 2018. The stock hit a 52-week low of Rs 973.99 on 3 March 2017.

The stock had underperformed the market over the past 30 days till 9 February 2018, rising 0.69% compared with 1.44% fall in the Sensex. The scrip had outperformed the market in past one quarter, rising 5.17% as against Sensex's 2.07% rise. The scrip had also outperformed the market in past one year, rising 32.84% as against Sensex's 20.02% rise.

The large-cap company has equity capital of Rs 280.27 crore. Face value per share is Rs 2.

L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering (LTHE), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), has signed a major field development engineering, procurement, construction (EPC) contract with Al Dhafra Petroleum Operations Company, Abu Dhabi, UAE, with a value in excess of Rs 2200 crore.

Al Dhafra Petroleum is a joint venture between ADNOC and Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC) and GS Energy, which is represented by Korean Abu Dhabi Oil Consortium (KADOC).

The scope of the contract includes Engineering, Procurement, Construction & Commissioning of flow lines, gathering facilities & pipelines to transfer crude oil & gas from Haliba fields to processing facility at Asab and installation of 132 kV and 33 kV overhead electrical transmission lines to supply power.

The order reinforces LTHE's unique capability to deliver 'design to build' engineering and construction solutions across the hydrocarbon spectrum.

On a consolidated basis, L&T's net profit surged 48.4% to Rs 1617.88 crore on 10.1% growth in net sales to Rs 28747.45 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016.

L&T is an Indian multinational engaged in technology, engineering, construction, manufacturing and financial services. It operates in over 30 countries worldwide.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)From Al Dhafra Petroleum Operations Company, Abu Dhabi

L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering, a wholly owned subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro, has signed a major field development EPC contract with Al Dhafra Petroleum Operations Company, Abu Dhabi, UAE, with a value in excess of Rs 2,200 crore.

Al Dhafra Petroleum is a joint venture between ADNOC and Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC) and GS Energy, which is represented by Korean Abu Dhabi Oil Consortium (KADOC).

The scope of the contract includes Engineering, Procurement, Construction & Commissioning of flow lines, gathering facilities & pipelines to transfer crude oil & gas from Haliba fields to processing facility at Asab and installation of 132 kV and 33 kV overhead electrical transmission lines to supply power.

The order reinforces LTHE's unique capability to deliver 'design to build' engineering and construction solutions across the hydrocarbon spectrum.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), the Navratna PSU, under Ministry of Mines, Govt. of India and country's leading manufacturer and exporter of alumina and aluminium, has declared its financial results for & upto 3rd quarter ended December 2017.

According to the reviewed financial results for the 3rd quarter of the financial year 2017-18, NALCO has achieved a record net profit of Rs.722 crore (growth of 207%), as against Rs. 235 crore in the preceding quarter and Rs. 144 crore in the corresponding quarter of previous fiscal. The net sales in the 3rd Quarter was Rs.2360 crore. With this, the company has been able to break the highest-ever net profit figures in a quarter during the last ten years.

Similarly, the net profit for the 9 months ended December 2017 works out to Rs. 1085 crore (growth of 171%), against the corresponding figure of Rs. 400 crore for the previous fiscal. The net sales for the 9 months of the fiscal are Rs.6538 crore as compared to Rs. 5071 crore in the corresponding period of the last financial year. NALCO has also achieved record growth in production in all fronts.

During the first nine months of the current fiscal, NALCO achieved production of 54.40 lakh tonnes of bauxite, as compared to 53.23 lakh tonnes achieved during the comparable period of the previous fiscal. The company produced 15.51 lakh tonnes of alumina hydrate, against 15.27 lakh tonnes achieved in the corresponding period of the previous financial year.

Metal production was 3.17 lakh tonnes, against 2.86 lakh tonnes during the comparable nine months of the previous fiscal registering a growth of 11%. The net power generated during the period was 4897million units up by 9%, compared to 4494 million units achieved in the corresponding period of the previous year. As a committed and responsible green power producer the company has generated 211 million units of wind power during the first 9 months of this fiscal.

Operational efficiency, cost reduction, strategic management decisions and team work of NALCO played a key role in achieving the record profit.

With robust monetary policy of the Government and demand-supply dynamics brightening, aided by growth in the construction and power sectors, pick-up in the automobile segmentas well as firming up of aluminium prices globally, we hope to post similar results in the next mandate, said Dr. Tapan Kumar Chand, CMD, NALCO.

It may be noted that the company has recently released its 'Corporate Plan - 2032' wherein it envisages to reach a turnover of Rs. 18,171 crore by 2024 and Rs.31,248 crore by 2032.

Worth mentioning that the company is vigorously pursuing its plans for addition of 0.5 MTPA capacity to its existing Smelter, 1MTPA capacity in its Alumina Refinery, Development of Utkal D&E Coal Blocks, Development of Pottangi Bauxite Mines, Angul Aluminium Park, 2.7 Lakh TPA Caustic Soda Plant in JV with GACL, Coal Tar Distillation Plant in JV with NINL, 1320 MW Greenfield Thermal Power Plant in Odisha, Overseas acquisition, exploration & processing of strategic minerals through KhanijBidesh India Ltd. (KABIL), a Joint Venture Company of NALCO, HCL & MECL and High end Aluminium Alloy Plant in Joint Venture with MIDHANI.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The structural reforms implemented by the Government including path-breaking initiatives such as demonetization, sustained campaign against tax evasion and the implementation of GST have resulted in greater tax compliance and hopefully shall garner higher revenues for the Government, said Dr Hasmukh Adhia, Secretary (Finance and Revenue), Ministry of Finance, Government of India.

Elaborating on the issue, Dr Adhia said that the benefit of reforms is becoming visible in terms of an increase in personal income tax collections and the prognosis for the next two years is bright as far as revenue collection is concerned. Dr Adhia also cautioned that the Government machinery is keeping a track and notices have been sent to those with disproportionate bank accounts in relation to the income tax returns.

While acknowledging the need to reduce corporate tax rate across the board, Dr Adhia said that the tax base under income tax would have to go up to avoid revenue loss and with the 25 percent tax rate now prescribed for companies having a turnover of upto 250 crores, almost 99 percent of the companies would be covered into this slab, resulting in better tax adherence and compliances. He further stated that investment in new manufacturing units and Foreign Direct Investment has been facilitated by the recent tax rate reductions.

On long term capital gains tax coexisting with securities transactions tax (STT), Dr Adhia said that STT is a small amount and does not form a big component of the overall cost of holding the securities. Besides, the sharp drop in the sensex is not a result of LTCG alone as the stock market across the world is on a tailspin due to the global market forces.

Dr Adhia further stated that revenue is expected to further increase considerably, in the light of the e-way bill, which shall be introduced in due course with the system fully enabled, and with the invoice matching mechanism under GST. Dr Adhia also stressed on the use of technology to remove anomalies in the system to avoid tax evasion.

Mr Sushil Chandra, Chairman, Central Board of Direct Taxes, Government of India, reiterated the commitment of the Government towards bringing clarity in the provisions of the tax laws and removing ambiguity. On the issue of corporate tax rates, Mr Chandra clarified that 99 percent of the total number of companies filing returns are entitled to a lower tax rate after the budget announcement of taxing companies with turnover upto 250 crores at the rate of 25 percent.

In the Budget, a lot of benefits have been extended to the senior citizens, middle class and salaried persons. So far as the reduction in tax rates is concerned, we have to move in a phased manner to maintain fiscal balance.

Prosecutions are being initiated not for the honest taxpayers, but for shell companies and pass through entities for cash, who are blatantly abusing the tax laws. The Government would like to request industry to be more tax compliant, so that the anti abuse provisions can be done away with and there is a higher tax collection, leading to further reduction in tax rates, explained Mr Chandra.

On valuation concerns for start-ups, he said that Notices are being served only in cases where there is a scope for misuse. However, an Assessment Committee has been constituted within the Department in case the assessment is perceived to be too high and unfavourable. It is only in a small number of cases that the valuation made by the company is not accepted by the authorities.

As a comprehensive move, Mr Chandra said that the Budget provisions are aimed at fulfilling three main objectives viz tax rationalisation, provide benefit to the assessee and revenue generation. He said that greater tax compliance would lead to a reduction in tax rates.

Mr John Joseph, Member (Budget), Central Board of Excise and Customs, Government of India commented that the Government is committed to make calibrated changes to the duty structure under the Customs law, in a bid to boost local manufacture and employment. The Government will take all necessary steps needed to deepen value addition.

Mr Rajiv Memani, Chairman, CII National Committee on Taxation mentioned that the last couple of years have seen a lot of activity from the Government in the field of taxation, which is expected to result in tremendous long term benefits and tax buoyancy. Among the major concerns, Mr Memani stressed on the competitive advantage which a high tax rate brings to the Indian economy while globally the tax rates are going down; challenges to the ease of doing business to the implementation of ICDS; the need to review the progress of AAR and the requirement of a diligent process to be followed for smooth implementation of the startup tax.

Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII congratulated the Government for presenting a balanced and pragmatic Budget, given the fiscal constraints and challenges. Mr Banerjee assured that CII is committed in advocating and supporting the initiatives of the Government in terms of bringing in simplified taxation reforms and a transparent compliance system.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)On a consolidated basis, net profit of Tata Steel rose 389.83% to Rs 1135.92 crore on 20.05% rise in net sales to Rs 33099.95 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Tata Motors will be in focus. The Tata Motors Group global wholesales in January 2018, including Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), were at 114,797 units, higher by 20%, over January 2017. Global wholesales of all Tata Motors' commercial vehicles and Tata Daewoo range in January 2018 were at 44,828 units, higher by 32%, over January 2017. Global wholesales of all passenger vehicles in January 2018 were at 69,969 units, higher by 13%, compared to January 2017. Global wholesales for Jaguar Land Rover were 49,631 vehicles (*JLR number for January 2018 includes CJLR volumes of 8,125 units). Jaguar wholesales for the month were 16108 vehicles, while Land Rover wholesales for the month were 33523 vehicles. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Bank of India, Britannia Industries and GAIL (India) will announce October-December 2017 earnings today, 12 February 2018.

Cadila Healthcare announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) inspected the company's Moraiya facility in Gujarat from 5 February to 9 February 2018. At the end of the inspection, no observation (483) was issued. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

On a consolidated basis, net profit of Coal India rose 4.22% to Rs 3005.02 crore on 2.52% decline in total income to Rs 22484.14 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced on Saturday, 10 February 2018.

State Bank of India (SBI) reported net loss of Rs 2416.37 crore in Q3 December 2017 as against net profit of Rs 2610 crore in Q3 December 2016. Total income rose 17.4% to Rs 62887.06 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Net profit of Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) rose 12.50% to Rs 1215.91 crore on 4.57% rise in net sales to Rs 11577.78 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Net profit of ONGC rose 15.22% to Rs 5014.67 crore on 14.90% rise in net sales to Rs 22995.88 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Net profit of Oil India rose 55.10% to Rs 705.22 crore on 16.62% rise in net sales to Rs 2852.55 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Meanwhile, the board of Oil India recommended issuing one bonus equity share of Rs 10 each for every two existing fully paid up equity share of Rs 10 each.

Net profit of National Aluminium Company (Nalco) rose 401.51% to Rs 721.78 crore on 20.15% rise in net sales to Rs 2388.82 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Net profit of Bata India rose 80.77% to Rs 68.17 crore on 6.20% rise in net sales to Rs 674 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

Net profit of Sun TV Network rose 11.20% to Rs 266.97 crore on 15.92% rise in net sales to Rs 683.28 crore in Q3 December 2017 over Q3 December 2016. The result was announced after market hours on Friday, 9 February 2018.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The stock is quoting at Rs 713.8, up 4.16% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. Tata Steel Ltd is up 58.53% in last one year as compared to a 19.48% spurt in NIFTY and a 30.8% spurt in the Nifty Metal index.

Tata Steel Ltd is up for a third straight session in a row. The stock is quoting at Rs 713.8, up 4.16% on the day as on 12:54 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is up around 0.62% on the day, quoting at 10520. The Sensex is at 34243.09, up 0.7%. Tata Steel Ltd has dropped around 4.38% in last one month.

Meanwhile, Nifty Metal index of which Tata Steel Ltd is a constituent, has dropped around 3.89% in last one month and is currently quoting at 3986.4, up 1.16% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 83.78 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 60.7 lakh shares in last one month.

The benchmark February futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 715.7, up 4.37% on the day. Tata Steel Ltd is up 58.53% in last one year as compared to a 19.48% spurt in NIFTY and a 30.8% spurt in the Nifty Metal index.

The PE of the stock is 14.96 based on TTM earnings ending September 17.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union Minister of Steel Birender Singh said on MondayAthat 20,000 mandis would be established in the country so that farmers could get better prices for their produce.

Interacting with media at Safidon town in Haryana's Jind district, he said that the Central government has been actively working towards doubling the income of farmers and concrete steps were being taken in this direction.

He said that last year loans were provided to about 6-7 crore farmers and the target this year has been set to provide loan to about 11 crore farmers to make farming profitable.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party on Monday staged protest outside the residence of North Delhi Mayor Preeti Aggarwal, who is facing allegations of large-scale corruption and undergoing a vigilance inquiry.

Aggarwal, of the Bharatiya Janata Party, has been accused of charging a 10 per cent cut in clearing tenders worth crores.

On December 28 last year, Lt Governor Anil Baijal's office had received a complaint from a Supreme Court lawyer against Aggarwal which was forwarded to the Chief Vigilance Officer, asking for examination of the letter's contents.

"BJP's silence on the issue proves that other party leaders were also involved in this scam," AAP leader Dilip Pandey said in a statement.

"They could not find any fault in AAP ministers' files that were forcibly brought to the Lt Governor's office. Despite that BJP leaders have been benefited by the scam, there have been no proper inquiry in the case," he said.

"There has been pretence in the name of probe.

"Either the Mayor should resign or the BJP should remove her," he added.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)AIMPLB spokesman Maulana Khalilur Rahman Sajjad Nomani on Monday clarified his remarks on visits to RSS camps, saying they were taken out of context to label him a friend and agent of RSS.

The top cleric and executive member of All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) issued a video statement to counter the allegations made by Maulana Salman Hussaini Nadvi after the latter was removed from the board over his Ayodhya proposal.

Breaking his silence, Maulana Nomani gave a detailed background of his remarks that he visited RSS camps and personally knows some RSS leaders. He revealed that during riots over Babri Masjid-Ram Janmbhoomi issue in 1990 when Lucknow was under curfew, he had risked his life to reach a hospital to donate blood to an injured Hindu girl. The father of that girl thanked him for saving the life of his only child. He was 'pracharak' of RSS and an incharge of 6 to 7 RSS 'shakhas'.

The cleric said at the invitation of the 'pracharak', he visited RSS camps and discussed with their cadre issues like how the country can be taken on the path of development and how peace and brotherhood could be ensured.

Playing a clip of his speech made in Aurangabad, Maulana Nomani said he cited the example of RSS to advise Muslims to inculcate their good qualities like simplicity and avoid ostentatious marriages and wasteful expenditure.

He argued that there was nothing new in it as many religious scholars and leaders exhort Muslims to ponder over the reasons for the development of western societies and adopt their good qualities in public life like discipline and honesty.

Maulana Nomani said his Rohingya remarks were also in the same context. He wanted Muslims to avoid ostentation in marriages by learning lessons from countries where the community is being massacred and to use their resources for constructive work.

The board member said it was known to everyone that organizations like Bajrang Dal distributed weapons among their cadre in various parts of the country to prepare for Myanmar-like massacres.

"This has been widely reported in media. Everyone knows some organizations are giving terrorism training to their cadre. My remarks were not to provoke Muslims but to wake them from slumber," he said.

He said he had always strived for unity between Muslims and the other oppressed sections of the society by clearing their misunderstandings. "This is not liked by Sangh Parivar and the forces who want to spread Brahminwad and Manuwad. But I had never imagined that one day these forces will succeed in using one of our friends and my childhood friend," he said while referring to Maulana Salman Nadvi.

Maulana Nomani said he still had no ill-will towards him and advised all members of the board to ensure that this chasm is not widened.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Uttar Pradesh government over the killing of a Dalit student in Allahabad and accused Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of failing to check soaring crime in the state.

The former Chief Minister said the daylight brutal killing of law student Dilip Saroj outside a restaurant in Allahabad had proved that criminals had no fear of law.

"On one hand innocent aspiring youngsters are facing such fate at the hands of criminals and on the other the police are targeting innocent people in encounters," the 44-year-old said in a statement.

He asked the government to give the student's family Rs 50 lakh in compensation.

Yadav added that in the 10 montha of BJP rule in Uttar Pradesh, insecurity has crept into the minds of the people and no action of the society was feeling safe.

The twin murder of a mother and son in Meerut, the brutal assault on a milkman in Bulandshahr, the fake encounter by police in Noida, triple murders in Bareilly and the murder of a trader in Allahabad had proved beyond doubt that all talk of peace and prosperity in the state was a farce.

"With such soaring crime, the Chief Minister is inviting people to invest in UP. Who will invest?" Akhilesh Yadav asked.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Rome, Feb 12 (IANS/AKI) Italy's Foreign Minister Angelino Alfano said on Monday that he will on Tuesday attend a meeting of the global coalition against the Islamic State jihadist group.

"I will keep stressing the need to stem IS's financial flows and those of all other terrorist organisations," Alfano told a meeting in Rome of Italian tax agents working abroad.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Kuwait's Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled al-Hamad Al-Sabah are among those due to attend the anti-IS coalition summit.

The US-lead coalition against the IS was formed in September 2014 and contains 70 partner countries, the Arab League, NATO, the European Union and Interpol.

--IANS/AKI

mr/

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)West Bengals' political parties on Monday flayed RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for his controversial comments on the Indian Army's preparedness for a war and asked him to join the army if possible.

Terming Bhagwat's comment as "anti-national and demeaning", CPI-M leader Sujan Chakraborty demanded his arrest.

"This is an anti-national comment. He has demeaned the India army with his comment. Mohan Bhagwat should be arrested," he said.

Coming down heavily on the RSS chief, state Congress president Adhir Chowdhury said he should stop lecturing and dared him and RSS activists to take the place of the army.

"If they really have the ability, let them go to the border and stand in place of the army. 42,000 positions are empty in the Indian Army let them join. Just giving lectures in rallies and television will not serve any purpose," he said.

However, in an attempt to defend Bhagwat, the state Bharatiya Janata Party said he did not compare RSS with the Indian army but referred to the extent of their preparedness and patriotism for the country.

"What he meant was the RSS activists would be prepared first in case of a calamity. They are disciplined and patriotic. They follow a rigorous training routine everyday so they would easily prepared," argued state BJP president Dilip Ghosh.

Bhagwat's statement in a gathering in Muzaffarpur on Sunday courted massive controversy, as he claimed that in case of a war, the Indian Army would take six months to prepare whereas RSS volunteers can get prepared in three days to fight on the borders against the enemy.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy on Monday voiced confidence that his party will form the next government in Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura on its own.

Tripura will go to the polls on February 18, followed by Nagaland and Meghalaya on February 27. The counting of votes is slated on March 3.

"The BJP has marched ahead in forming government from nine states in 2009 to 19 states now on its own and with the coalition partners. We are going to add three more, first from Meghalaya, Tripura, and Nagaland, and the fourth is Karnataka," Rudy told journalists here.

The former Union Minister, who was in Shillong drumming up support for party candidates contesting from the urban assembly constituencies of East Shillong, South Shillong, North Shillong and Pynthorumkhrah, said: "In Meghalaya, I can read the pulse of change and it looks like people have made up their minds for a change as we have witnessed across the country."

"The Congress has no vision, it has lost foothold across the country and last few states are crumbling and one of them is Meghalaya," he said adding that the BJP has a clear manifesto - development.

"In our manifesto, we will include rural development which is our topmost priority besides employment, industrialisation, youth empowerment, tourism and employment," Ruddy added.

To a query on a possibility of a fractured mandate in Meghalaya, he said: "We do not believe in fractured mandate as we will have a majority. Do not get surprise by my confidence. I have been handling elections for last 30 years and we are confident of forming the BJP government in Meghalaya."

On Act East Policy, Rudy said major focus is being laid on Meghalaya in particular in view of the evolved and progressive society and presence of conscious and vibrant youth.

"But sadly, the feedback that we have been getting in Delhi is dismal - the governments in the state are not performing and the only positive symptoms of development were the work of Union government which are the good highways.

"The state has missed out so much and while other states are already talking about bullet trains and metro, unfortunately Meghalaya is still talking about rural development," he said, Aattacking the Congress-led Meghalaya United Alliance government.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Monday held a demonstration to demand the release of party chief and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia following her conviction on corruption charges.

BNP activists and their allies from across Dhaka took to the roads and chanted slogans demanding Zia's release, bdnews24.com reported.

Party's Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Vice Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu, Adviser to the Chairperson Zainul Abedin Farroque and other BNP leaders led the demonstration.

A Dhaka special judge's court sentenced the country's main opposition leader to five years in prison on February 8.

The BNP held nationwide demonstrations following the verdict and there were clashes between security forces and opposition protesters.

On Saturday, Zia's supporters announced three consecutive days of protests from Monday. A sit-in protest is scheduled for Tuesday and a hunger strike for Wednesday.

--IANS

soni/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Fair trade regulator Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the sale of Reliance Infrastructure's (RInfra) Mumbai power business to Adani Transmission Ltd, RInfra announced on Monday.

In a release here, RInfra said it had signed the binding agreement for the sale of its integrated Mumbai power business in December 2017. The transaction was expected to be completed by March.

The CCI "has approved sale of RInfra's Mumbai power business to Adani Transmission Ltd (ATL)," the statement said.

Announcing the largest-ever debt reduction exercise by an Indian corporate, RInfra said in December that it has signed a definitive agreement for 100 per cent sale of its Mumbai power business to ATL for a total consideration of Rs 18,800 crore.

While the total deal value of the sale of the Mumbai power utility, Reliance Energy, is Rs 13,251 crore, regulatory assets estimated at Rs 5,000 crore and net working capital on closing estimated at Rs 550 crore would also accrue to RInfra as part of the agreement.

Total deal value is at Rs 13,251 crore, which comprises of business valued at Rs 12,101 crore and regulatory assets approved so far of Rs 1,150 crore.

In addition, regulatory assets under approval estimated at Rs 5,000 crore and net working capital on closing estimated at Rs 550 crore will flow directly to RInfra, it said.

"RInfra will utilise the proceeds of this transformative transaction entirely to reduce its debt, becoming debt-free and up to Rs 3,000 crore cash surplus," a statement said.

Describing the deal as the largest ever debt reducing exercise by any corporate, RInfra said that monetisation of the Mumbai power business is a major step in the company's deleveraging strategy for future growth.

"Reliance Infra's Mumbai power business is India's largest private sector integrated power utility distributing power to nearly three million residential, industrial and commercial consumers..., covering an area of 400 sq km," the statement added.

The Mumbai utility caters to a peak demand of over 1,800 MW, with annual revenues of Rs 7,500 crore.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Amid the raging political crisis in the Maldives, China on Monday refuted allegations made by former Maldives President Mohammed Nasheed that Beijing is engaging in grabbing land in the Indian Ocean archipelago nation.

"Recently, former Maldivian President Nasheed made a lot of false remarks in the Indian media.

"He pointed fingers at the practical cooperation between China and Maldives and alleged that China engaged in so-called 'land grabbing' of Maldivian islands, which undermines the security of the Indian Ocean region," Ji Rong, spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy here, said in a statement.

"These allegations are apparently groundless with no regard to facts."

In an interview to an Indian newspaper, Nasheed sought India's help saying that the Maldives is currently faced with two problems: radical Islam and China's attempts at land grabbing.

He said that China now has 17 islands in that country and talking about investing $40 million but the purpose for this was not known.

He said that this problem was a not a bilateral one but multilateral and sought India's intervention.

Nasheed's comments come amid the current political crisis and after Maldives President Abdulla Yameen rushed through Parliament a free trade agreement with China last year, which raised eyebrows in New Delhi as it went against Male's "India First" policy.

India has traditionally held influence in the Indian Ocean atoll nation where China has been trying to make inroads because of the country's strategic location.

Experts say the Maldivian crisis could well become a new power struggle between India and China.

Ji, in his statement, said that in recent years, "on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, China and the Maldives have been cooperating on infrastructure and livelihood projects, which has played a positive role in transforming and upgrading the latter's economy and improving its people's livelihood" and these measures have been "widely welcomed" by the Maldivian people".

"As a matter of fact, when Nasheed was the President, China and Maldives have already launched relevant cooperation projects. The 'land grabbing' allegation by Nasheed is apparently meant to serve certain political purposes of him."

The Maldives has plunged into a crisis with President Yameen declaring a state of emergency and arresting the Chief Justice and a former head of state, after the Supreme Court termed as unjust the imprisonment of nine MPs and Nasheed who is in exile.

Yameen sent special envoys to China, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia even as New Delhi politely declined to host the Maldivian Foreign Minister.

Ji also reiterated China's stand that the current situation in Maldives is its "internal affair" and "should be properly resolved through dialogue and negotiation by various parties in the country" as the Maldivian government and people have the "wisdom and ability to properly handle the problems they face and restore order".

--IANS

ab/vd

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China has said that its newest J-20 fourth-generation stealth fighter was combat-ready and officially commissioned into the country's air force, the media reported.

Long touted as China's answer to US F-22 and F-35 stealth fighter jets, analysts say the J-20 is intended to fulfil two roles, air-to-air combat and ground attack.

"The stealth jets will improve the air force's comprehensive fighting ability and enable it to better safeguard China's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity," Xinhua news agency quoted Shen Jinke, spokesman for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force, as saying.

A report last year from the China Power Project at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies suggests the J-20 could be used to strike enemy airfields and command centres in the ground attack role, reports CNN.

The report also points out that if long-range air-to-air missile are mounted on the J-20, it could threaten key components of the US air fleet, such as aerial refuelling tankers and early warning and command and control aircraft.

In a post on the PLA's website, Chinese military expert Song Zongping said the J-20 will "engage with rivals in the future who dare to provoke China in the air".

The post claims that the arrival of the J-20 will change the balance of air power in the Asia-Pacific region, CNN reported.

"In the past, only the US and its allies like Japan were capable of arming stealth fighter jets. But now, their monopoly in this region has been broken by China's J-20."

China first flew the twin-engine J-20 in 2011, and it was introduced to the public during a flyby at the China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, near Hong Kong, in November 2016.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Fierce fighting continued between militants and security forces in the heart of Srinagar on Monday after a foiled attack on a CRPF camp left a trooper dead and a policeman critically injured. The LeT claimed responsibility for the attack.

As darkness enveloped the Karan Nagar area, loud explosions and the rattle of automatic gunfire could be intermittently heard, officials and residents said.

The site is barely 300 metres from the SMHS Hospital from where Pakistani LeT militant Naveed Jat alias Abu Hunzullah escaped on February 6 after two policemen were killed.

Police said residents in the vicinity had been evacuated to safety. Internet services were suspended in the area.

A caller identifying himself as Mehmood Shah of the Lashkar-e-Taiba telephoned a local news agency owning responsibility for the attack on the headquarters of the 23 battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force.

Jammu and Kashmir police chief S.P. Vaid congratulated the "alert CRPF sentry" for averting what could have been a suicide attack on the CRPF camp. "Fortunately two terrorists are in cordon and exchange of fire going on."

Trouble began around 4.30 a.m. when two militants were spotted by a sentry at the observation post. As he opened fire, the militants fled.

Searches in the area revealed that the militants, carrying backpacks and AK-47 rifles, had taken shelter in a building near the CRPF camp which was then surrounded.

When the holed up militants were challenged, they fired at the security forces, triggering a gunfight that left a trooper dead and a member of the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police critically injured.

The attempted attack on the CRPF camp comes two days after militants stormed an Army camp at Sunjuwan in Jammu, killing five soldiers and a civilian. At least three terrorists were also slain.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is visiting Jammu on Monday even as the anti-terror operation inside the Sunjuwan army camp here is still going on, army said.

"The Defence Minister will visit the injured soldiers and civilians at the Satwari army hospital here. She will also meet the families of martyred soldiers and injured persons.

Sitharaman will be briefed on the security situation in the wake of the Sunjuwan terror attack, informed sources said.

Army chief, General Bipin Rawat, who arrived here on Sunday flew back to New Delhi on Monday.

The anti-terror operation inside the Sunjuwan army camp has been continuing for the last three days as it has not been officially called off so far.

Three terrorists were killed by the army during the operation that has now been on for over 50 hours.

Five soldiers and a civilian were killed by terrorists, who entered the army camp around 4.45 a.m. on Saturday.

Ten people, including six women and children were injured in the attack by the Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) terrorists, who were wearing army fatigues.

Initial reports had said four JeM terrorists had entered the two buildings of the Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) quarters after hurling grenades and using heavy volume of automatic gunfire on Saturday.

"The operation against terrorists is still going on. It will only be called off after the area is completely sanitised," the defence sources said.--IANS

sq/in

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Eight people were killed and two injured when the vehicle they were travelling in plunged 20 feet off a bridge in Jharkhand's Dumka district on Monday, police said.

The vehicle, coming from Bhagalpur district of Bihar to Dumka, met with the accident near Lagla village of Dumka as the driver lost control, an official from Jama police station said.

The vehicle, carrying 10 people, was headed to Dumka, around 400 km from here, to deliver newspaper bundles, he said.

The driver, who lost control of the high-speed vehicle due to sleep, had taken on passengers to earn money, he said.

The dbodies have been sent for post mortem, he added.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Members of the European Parliament on Monday called for increased efforts to face the challenge posed by the Rohingya crisis after learning about the conditions in refugee camps in Bangladesh.

Around 688,000 Rohingyas have fled to Bangladesh over the last five months, escaping violence in Myanmar amid accusations against the Army of ethnic cleansing and human rights violations.

"It's a huge challenge for Bangladesh and also for international organisations. We must strengthen our efforts to give support especially to the organisations involved here," German MEP Joachim Zeller told Efe news.

Zeller, a member of the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights, highlighted the terrible situation created by lack of space, food and medical attention in camps.

The MEPs are scheduled to travel to Myanmar on Tuesday to meet with authorities in the country.

The Chairman of the Subcommittee on Human Rights of the European Parliament, Italy's Pier Antonio Panzeri, said that the MEP's visit showed their commitment to finding a solution to the crisis.

He said they were to raise a series of questions with Myanmar authorities to ensure that an agreement with Bangladesh signed in November to return the Rohingyas was "implemented with all guarantees in terms of human rights".

The Chairman said he was disappointed with Myanmar de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi's conduct regarding the crisis as she was awarded the European Parliament's Sakharov Prize for human rights in 1990 and is a Nobel peace laureate.

The current crisis erupted on August 25, 2017 following an attack by a Rohingya insurgent group that led to a violent response by the Myanmar Army in the state of Rakhine, where it is calculated that around one million Rohingyas lived.

Members of the mostly Muslim minority community are not recognized by Myanmar's authorities, who consider them Bengali migrants and refuse to grant them citizenship.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court on Monday slammed the CBI's SIT for not properly probing alleged extra-judicial killings by the Army, Assam Rifles and police in Manipur and asked why FIRs were lodged against the victims and not against officers.

A division bench of Justices M.B. Lokur and Justice U.U. Lalit said it was "not satisfied" with the progress made by the SIT of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the investigation.

"I am sorry but there is something terrible wrong... You (CBI) filed FIR against the victim (who are dead) saying he was insurgent. File FIR immediately. Enough is enough. We are not satisfied," the bench said.

The court was hearing a PIL seeking a probe into as many as 1,528 cases of extra-judicial killings in Manipur.

On July 14, 2017, the apex court had constituted the Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising five CBI officers and ordered registration of FIRs and investigation into alleged extra-judicial killings in Manipur.

During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Maninder Singh told the court that told the SIT had registered 42 cases so far on such killings.

However, senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, appearing for the petitioner, told the beach that out of these 42 FIRs, 40 have been lodged against the dead persons.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) also complained to the bench that SIT has been registering cases against the victims. To this, the court said it wants the NHRC to assist the probing team as the issue was "getting out of control".

The court directed the NHRC to depute three persons to associate with the SIT to carry out investigation in 17 (in which NHRC has done preliminary enquiry) cases.

The court said it wanted the SIT to process its investigation in an "expeditious way" and in accordance with its judgement.

The court posted the matter for further hearing on March 12.

The court, which was hearing a PIL seeking probe into 1,528 alleged extra-judicial killings, had ordered registration of FIR in 81 cases including 32 probed by a Commission of Enquiry, 32 investigated by judicial authorities, 11 in which compensation was awarded and six probed by the commission headed by former Supreme Court judge Santosh Hegde.

--IANS

gt/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actress Saoirse Ronan, who features in "Ladybird", says female creators are changing the industry following the #MeToo movement and that gradual change towards equality will become more visible in the coming years.

"I think women are going to get a lot more meetings with studios than they did before," independent.ie quoted Ronan as saying.

She was talking on the Bill Simmons Podcast while promoting "Ladybird", for which she is nominated in the Best Actress in a Leading Role category.

"I think we're not going to see the difference in the work for another couple years, at least. Things are going to need to go into development. Women are obviously going to be working hard to have something to go in with, which they do already, and I think they'll just be given more of a chance," Ronan added.

She said the industry needs to get to a point past employing women to meet a quota.

"Not where it's sort of like, 'Oh, let's get a female director' because she's a woman. Because you know, we need to have the token female director. They just need to open up the floodgates so that everyone has a chance to show what they can do."

Ronan said many female actors she knows are taking steps to change the industry.

"Female actors have gotten to the point where they're so sick of having to wait for the right role to come along, that they're just starting up their own production companies.

"They're getting producers together that they know. They're writing their own material, they're developing their own stuff, they're using their own contacts, and they're making their own stuff."

At the moment, Ronan is looking forward to the 90th Oscars. The award gala will be held on March 4 here, and will beam live in India on Star Movies and Star Movies Select HD on March 5.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Films enable people feel closer to wildlife, associating them emotionally with the lives of animals, says a top British TV producer.

"I think (wildlife films) enable them to be, what makes them closer to the wildlife. You can't make that happen through a mediator" British television producer Mike Gunton told IANS in an email interview.

"All you can do is try and indulge people to associate them emotionally in a programme and that will generally make them think about the world in a different way," the producer told IANS in an email interview.

Gunton has directed several films around wildlife, and backed projects like "Yellowstone", "Life", "Madagascar", "Attenborough and the Giant Dinosaur", "Nature", "Big Cats" and "Africa" -- which is aired in India on Sony BBC Earth.

Gunton, who also directed "Planet Earth II", said that awareness about animals comes out of the reality that they try to project in the show. "I think if you get that right, and people get to connect to the animals, that is one way we try make such big shows like "Planet" and "Africa", he said.

"Actually, to be in the animal's world and to sense their lives, either consciously or subconsciously, raises awareness of the challenges that the animals are facing in their lives. It is all connected in a way," Gunton said.

But he said that it was very hard to actually measure the effect. "It's tricky to measure the effect of a wildlife film on awareness among the general public," Gunton said.

"If you are in China, it doesn't have to be only about Chinese animals or if you are in India, it doesn't have to be about Indian animals; the whole point is that it (lends) a global perspective," he added.

At present, he is making a series on Pink Cats -- the big cats of the world.

"Each episode will show one family. It will be about a lion family, a tiger family shot in Sunderbans in India, a chimpanzee family, a wild dog family in Africa or a penguin family in Alaska.

"It's quite a drama, more like a Shakespearean drama. I think it's like the Bollywood drama in India," 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.)Toning down his rhetoric against north Indians and Haryana in particular, Goa's Agriculture Minister Vijai Sardesai on Monday said that "Haryana also has some good people", naming Gurugram-based Shiv Yog foundation Chairman Avdhoot Shivanand as one of them.

"Haryana also has good people and we have reached out to them. I am saying this because media needs something or the other. We are reaching out to good people and the government is willing to work with the Shiv Yog Foundation," Sardesai said at an official function here.

"These days one hears about Haryana. I had gone to Gurugram to meet Shiv Yog foundation Chairman Avdhoot Shivanand. He speaks of cosmic farming. He says that particular type of farming (attracts) celestial sounds and it should be promoted. He has a doctorate from the Berkeley University. There is some basis to it," Sardesai said, adding that Goa will be promoted as a brand for agriculture and organic farming.

Sardesai had stoked a controversy last week by denigrating the credentials of tourists visiting Goa and accusing north Indians of trying to convert Goa into another Harayana.

"Your Chief Minister is pushing to increase tourists coming into Goa. Today, we have got almost six times population of Goa coming as tourists. Those tourists are not the top-end tourists, they are also the scum of the earth," Sardesai had said.

"And now, we are dependent upon the north Indians and this is what they do. They are not bothered about Goa. They would like to recreate a Haryana in Goa," Sardesai had also said, while referring to the 6.5 million domestic tourists visiting Goa every year, as "scum of the earth".

He had later said that he had only referred to a section of the inbound tourists as scum.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A day after nine juveniles escaped from an observation home in Ambala, authorities in Haryana on Monday ordered a probe into the matter.

Ambala Deputy Commissioner Sharandeep Kaur appointed Sub-Divisional Magistrate Satender Siwach as the inquiry officer, an official spokesman said here. Ambala is 45 km from here.

The juveniles escaped on Sunday from their barrack and used a ladder to escape from the premises.

"As per a fact-finding report, watchmen and one guard were found absent from duty," the spokesman said.

Director General of Police (Jails) has been asked to take disciplinary action against the erring officials.

The spokesman said some closed-circuit televisions were damaged earlier by the inmates to facilitate their escape.

--IANS

js/tsb

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Moderate to heavy started in the valley as rain lashed the plains on Monday breaking the nearly two-month long dry spell in

The snow and rain is likely to continue till Tuesday, the weather office said.

Heavy in Banihal sector of Jammu-Srinagar Highway closed the road for traffic as authorities said no vehicular movement will be allowed on Monday.

People throughout the Kashmir Valley greeted the that will replenish the perennial water reservoirs in the mountains. These reservoirs sustain various rivers, streams, springs and lakes during the summer months.

Authorities have set up helpline numbers for people to approach in case of emergencies in different districts of the valley.

The minimum temperatures have also appreciably improved throughout the state due to a cloud cover.





Special Operation Group (SOG) of Police personnel take positions near the building where militants were sheltering during an encounter, near a CRPF camp at Karra Nagar in Srinagar. (PTI Photo)

The minimum temperature was zero in Srinagar while it was minus 0.1 in Pahalgam and minus 4.6 in Gulmarg.

Kargil town at minus 14 was the coldest, followed by Leh at minus 11.3 degrees Celsius.

Jammu city recorded 10.5, Katra 7.6, Batote 1.3, Bannihal 0.2, Bhaderwah 0.4 and Udhampur 8.8 degrees Celsius as the minimum temperatures of the day.

(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.)Actress Rosamund Pike says "Hostiles" is an existential movie with a simple story.

"I didn't think of this as a genre film. This is very much an existential movie for me. The story is quite simple and yet there's so much," Pike said in a statement.

"The human landscape of it is vast. There's tremendous interplay between these characters. They've all seen such darkness and it's affected them in different ways," she added.

Set in 1892, "Hostiles" stars Christian Bale as a captain who agrees to escort a dying Cheyenne war chief (Wes Studi) and his family back home to tribal lands. The journey takes Bale and his detail from New Mexico to the grasslands of Montana. "Hostiles" is based on an original manuscript by the late Donald Stewart.It is directed by Scott Cooper from his own script, and also stars Q'orianka Kilcher, Adam Beach, Rory Cochrane, Ben Foster, Jesse Plemons, Jonathan Majors and Timothee Chalamet. Brought to India by PVR Pictures, "Hostiles" will release in India on February 16.

Cooper also praised Pike, who plays character of Rosalee Quaid in the film.

"She has such a high emotional IQ. She's the actress who always wants to take the character from one stage to something completely unexpected. She's thinking at every moment of how she'll relate to something that's six, eight or ten minutes down the narrative," Cooper said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actress Charlize Theron says she used to shy away from the term feminist, but she can now admit it proudly.

"I'm proud to say that I am a f**king feminist," hollywoodreporter.com quoted Theron as saying.

Theron, a South African native, was addressing a fundraiser at the Geffen Playhouse here.

She added: "I remember always saying being a feminist meant a different thing to everybody. And I would apologise for it. And I had to ask, why was that? Why couldn't I just say, 'Yes, I'm a feminist?'"

Theron mentioned the flap over "The Huntsman: Winter's War", for which she demanded and got equal pay (over $10 million) to co-star Chris Hemsworth.

"I am in a position where I could put my foot down and say, I want equal pay to my male co-star, who I had billed another movie with. We were doing a sequel, we had done it together, why not?

"What was interesting about it was I had a studio that said all right. And I was like, oh? We just need to say this? We just need to not be so polite about it and say what we want?"

The actress feels it is easy to link the demand for equal pay and movements like #MeToo directly to Nelson Mandela's legacy.

"The amount of traction and the amount of women who are being empowered by other women to step forward and actually speak their truth, I know in my life I've never seen anything like that," said Theron.

"I think success for us as women is going to come out of the support that we give each other, out of not stopping this moment. This is a rock rolling down a mountain really fast, and I'm quite enjoying watching it," she added.

--IANS

sug/rb

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday called for India-Pakistan talks, quickly adding that she will be dubbed "anti-national" by TV channels for making the appeal.

"Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed (in the state)," Mehbooba Mufti tweeted.

"I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesn't matter. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option."

The Chief Minister's appeal comes amid a spurt in militant violence in the state as well as unending border clashes between Indian and Pakistani militaries.

--IANS

mr-in/sar

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said militants who killed five soldiers and a civilian at an Army camp in Jammu were Pakistanis and warned that Islamabad will pay a price for the terror attack.

"Pakistan will have to pay for this misadventure," Sitharaman told reporters here. The deaths of "our soldiers won't go in vain".

The minister was in Jammu to take stock of the situation at the Sunjuwan Army camp which three heavily armed militants stormed on Saturday morning and entered the residential quarters of junior commissioned officers, spraying bullets and hurling bombs.

The operation was called off on Monday morning after the three attackers were killed. A fourth one, she said, may have been a guide and didn't enter the military base.

"Since the terrorist were dressed in battle fatigues and had similar appearance to their possible target victims, the operation had to be done (in a way) to eliminate the possibility of any mistaken identity of collateral damage."

She said the operations entailed a search of 26 blocks and safe evacuation of families from 189 residential flats.

Sitharaman said the three militants were all Pakistanis and were handled by their Jaish-e-Muhammad leaders across the border.

"The terrorists belonged to JeM, sponsored by Masood Azhar residing in Pakistan and deriving support from therein," she said, adding a possibility of local support was being investigated.

"The cantonment is located on the outskirts of Jammu, approximately 30 km from the International Boundary, in a semi-urban environment with densely populated civilian localities adjacent to the cantonment perimeter wall. The demography of the cantonment and the adjoining area indicates the possibility of local support to the terrorists."

She said the Jaish module that conducted the attack may have infiltrated sometime back.

"Our intelligence inputs indicate that these terrorists were being controlled by handlers from across the border. The evidence has been scrutinised by National Investigation Agency who shall soon furnish a detailed report."

The Minister asserted that evidences related to Jaish's involvement in the terror attack would be shared with Pakistan.

"Giving evidence to Pakistan is a continuous process. It will have to be proved over and over again that they are responsible."

She said giving evidence to Pakistan would not prevent the Indian Army from responding "appropriately and at a time we deem fit".

The Minister said infiltration from across the Line of Control had ebbed to a great extent due to "anti-infiltration obstacle system and a dynamic multi-layered counter-infiltration grid" and activities of militants in hinterland were also being curbed.

Despite this, she said, "Pakistan is expanding the arc of terror and resorting to ceasefire violations to aid infiltration.

"Although the terrain configuration and snow conditions make it difficult to complete or stop the infiltration, the government is taking a host of measures in procuring modern electronic surveillance systems to implement Philip Campose committee report which was instituted to review the security of all military installations for which a sum of Rs 1,487 crore has been allocated."

She said other measures to stop infiltration of militants and enhance alertness along the border included installing additional censors, UAVs and long range surveillance devices "to cover the entire frontage of the LoC".

Earlier, the Minister undertook an aerial survey of the Army station and visited the Army Hospital in Jammu city where those injured in the terror attack were being treated.

She also called on Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.

--IANS

sq-umer-ps/sar/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Iran's President Hassan Rouhani, who is visiting India this week, will offer Friday prayers at the historic Makkah Masjid here and will also address the gathering, officials said.

Rouhani, who will be reaching here directly from Iran on Thursday, will attend various programmes during his two-day stay before proceeding to New Delhi.

After his arrival on Thursday evening, the Iranian President will interact with selected 'ulema' or religious scholars of both Shia and Sunni sects, intellectuals, and academicians.

The next day, Rouhani will offer Friday prayers at Makkah Masjid, a 17th-century mosque, located near the historic Charminar in the Muslim-majority old city. After 'Namaz-e-Juma', the Iranian leader will address the gathering, said an official at the Iranian consulate here.

The Iranian President will also visit Qutub Shahi tombs, a historic monument near Golconda Fort. He will pay tributes to the mausoleums of rulers of the Qutub Shahi dynasty (1518-1687), who were Shias. The 16th-17th-century necropolis has many mausoleums built in Persian architectural style.

Hyderabad has historic cultural links with Iran. The city, founded by Quli Qutub Shah, was designed on the lines of Iranian city Isfahan. Mir Momin Astrabadi, who had migrated from Iran, had prepared the design of Charminar and Hyderabad.

Rouhani is also likely to address a meeting of Iranians settled in Hyderabad.

The city has more than 1,000 Iranians, whose forefathers had migrated from Iran. Hyderabad is also home to the second largest Shia population in India after Lucknow.

--IANS

ms/and/rn

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Islamic State (IS) leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was injured in an airstrike in May 2017 and had to relinquish control of the terror group for up to five months, US officials told CNN.

US intelligence agencies have assessed with a high degree of confidence that the world's most wanted man was near Raqqa, Syria, when the missile struck, the officials said late Sunday.

Their assessment is based on reports from IS detainees and refugees in northern Syria that emerged months after the airstrike.

Baghdadi's injuries were not considered life-threatening but they did mean he could not continue to command the daily operations of the group, said the officials.

However, it remains unclear whether Baghdadi was hit in a targeted attack or if he was part of "collateral damage".

The other factors that remain unclear are who fired the missile, the exact date of the strike or whether Baghdadi's injury was the result of a Russian missile.

"There have been isolated strikes by Russians in Raqqa, but as there's no timeline to it, we don't know if it's ours," a US official told CNN.

Baghdadi has made only one public appearance in July 2014 at the al-Nuri Mosque in Mosul, which was retaken by Iraqi security forces in June 2017.

IS has since released various audio messages it claims to be of Baghdadi.

--IANS

ksk/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)US President Donald Trump has declined to give a timeline for releasing Washington's plan for peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians, saying that neither party was committed to the process, the media reported.

"We are going to see what goes on," Trump told the Israel Hayom daily in an interview released on Sunday.

"Right now, I would say the Palestinians are not looking to make peace, they are not looking to make peace. And I am not necessarily sure that Israel is looking to make peace... So we are just going to have to see what happens," he said.

The US' role as a broker in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process has come under fire following the Trump administration's decision in December to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, upending seven decades of US foreign policy, CNN reported.

Top Palestinian officials condemned the move, saying it disqualified the US from playing the role of arbiter. The UN voted overwhelmingly to condemn the decision.

The Israeli daily was also asked about his comments at the World Economic Forum in Davos that "Jerusalem is off the table" in terms of negotiations.

In his reply, he seemed to qualify his earlier remarks, reports CNN.

"I wanted to make it clear that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel," he told the newspaper.

"As for specific boundaries, I would support what both sides agreed to.

"I think both sides will have to make hard compromises to reach a peace agreement," Trump added.

Asked about the issue of settlements, the US President called them "something that very much complicates and always have complicated making peace".

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)JD-U president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said that the decision of his party not to contest by-elections to one Lok Sabha and two Assembly seats was taken by the state unit of the party and not him.

"It was a decision of the state unit of the JD-U, not mine," Nitish Kumar told media here in a reply to speculation over the decision of the ruling JD-U not to field candidates in any of the three seats where bypolls will take place in March.

Nitish Kumar said he has given his consent to the party state unit's decision not to contest the bypolls to Araria Lok Sabha and the Jahanabad and Bhabhua Assembly seats.

After the JD-U decided not to contest the bypolls, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav taunted the Chief Minister saying: "It shows Nitish Kumar's abject surrender before the BJP which will not allow him to call the shots. What an irony. The ruling party is running away from a contest."

Two days ago JD-U state president Vashisht Narain Singh announced that the party will not field any candidate for any of the three seats in the bypolls.

The bypoll in Araria Lok Sabha seat was necessitated by the death of RJD MP Mohammad Taslimuddin. The BJP had finished second in the seat in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, closely followed by the JD-U, which had then contested the Parliamentary polls separately.

The Jahanabad assembly seat has fallen vacant after the death of RJD Legislator Mundrika Yadav. The JD-U had fought the 2015 Assembly polls in alliance with the RJD and the Congress.

The bypolls in Bhabhua in Kaimur district has been necessitated following the death of the BJP legislator.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal on Monday unveiled the portrait of late former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in the Assembly while major opposition parties boycotted the function saying such an honour should not be given to a convicted person.

The portrait was unveiled in the presence of Chief Minister K. Palaniswami, Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam and other state ministers.

Addressing the gathering, Palaniswami said Jayalalithaa's fame would continue to exist as long as the Earth continues to exist.

He said Jayalalithaa had restored the state's rights in the Cauvery river water issue-in the dispute with Karnataka on sharing the river water.

Palaniswami said steps are being taken to build a memorial for Jayalalithaa.

Meanwhile, opposition parties led by DMK, Congress, IUML boycotted the function stating that portraits of persons convicted in a corruption case should not be there in the Assembly Hall.

DMK leader M.K. Stalin said Jayalalithaa was the "number one" accused in the disproportionate assets case, and was convicted in the case.

A trial court in Bengaluru had held Jayalalithaa, her close aide V.K. Sasikala and two others as guilty and convicted them. While the Karnataka High Court acquitted all of them, the apex court upheld the trial court's judgement.

Since Jayalalithaa had died before apex court's order, she was not jailed while three others are serving their sentence in a jail in Karnataka.

Stalin said Jayalalithaa's portrait demeans the portraits of other leaders in the Assembly -- portraits of former Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu, national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar and others.

Other parties like DMDK, PMK also opposed the move to unveil Jayalalithaa's portrait while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was in support of the government's action.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jordan on Sunday hosted the ninth meeting of the Counter-IS Finance Group, which is affiliated to the US-led coalition to combat the terror group Islamic State (IS).

Representatives of the member countries discussed means to combat all financing resources for IS in order to eradicate the terror group, Xinhua cited Petra news agency as saying.

Addressing the meeting, which attracted more than 110 representatives of coalition members, Ziad Fariz, governor of the Central Bank of Jordan, highlighted the need to cut off all finance resources to IS, adding that ending all its resources can help uproot the terror group.

Fariz said Jordan, which is on the frontline in fighting terrorism, is committed to continuing its efforts in this regard.

US officials taking part in the meeting said IS, which has lost 95 per cent of the territories it used to control in Syria and Iraq, will be completely wiped out soon.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Film: "Kuch Bheege Alfaaz"; Director: Onir; Cast: Zain Khan Durrani, Geetanjali Thapa; Rating: ***1/2

In his latest directorial venture, the prolific and insightful director Onir probes wounds that never heal. The love that grows between two wounded people trapped in the numbing bustle of the metropolis, Kolkata (it was Delhi in Onir's previous film "Shab") -- is not uncharted territory in the cinema of emotional diaspora that Onir has constantly explored in "Life in a... Metro".

In "Kuch Bheege Alfaaz", the traditional tearfulness associated with the emotions of hurt, pain, betrayal, isolation and guilt are alchemized into a warm-hearted, frothy-but-never-frivolous look at how craggily man-woman relationships pan out in the city.

There is a lot of 'ping' in the pain of mutually shared hurt between the pair as they exchange messages on the phone that they find very entertaining.

Onir shoots his love stories in the pitiless heartland where he succeeds in ferreting out a bedrock of compassion while his protagonists, melancholic but smiling misfits of the metropolis, struggle with their isolation and suffering. In the movie, Alfaaz suffers in abundance for a guilty secret that he harbours from his teens.

Hint: It is to do with a pretty bright 15-yearold girl Chhavi played by Shefali Chauhan.

It's Alfaaz's good fortune that his misfortune is portrayed by an abundantly emotive new actor. Zain Khan Durrani is most decidedly a prized find.

His command over his character's dithering emotional graph is impressive. His command over the Urdu language and the sher-o-shayari that his radio jockey's character is insistently required to spill into the scanty screenplay, is even more impressive, especially in today's cinema where our heroes "think" in English.

Zain, with his restrained ruminative romanticism, makes you overlook the film's bleaker bits -- the repetitive use of the Whatsapp theme to drive in the point of how contemporary relationships are driven in to the zone of tenability on the Smartphone.

After a point, those pings on the screen just begin to seem annoying.

The lead pair, though, keeps our attention from flagging.

If Zain is every bit the dreamy RJ with a nightmare tucked in his heart, Geetanjali Thapa (so brilliant in "Liar's Dice") as the sunshine girl with a skin ailment, gets into the skin of her character, though some of the script's attempts to scrub her conscience clean of all self-pity is way too tactless (a blind date who keeps digging his nose, for example, hardly makes for a convincing case of self-worth for the girl with the skin ailment).

Zain and Thapar keep us watching. Zain's voice playing across the radio waves gives the narrative a romantic heft that the film may have otherwise lacked. The supporting cast is also well-woven into the script.

Mona Ambegaonkar as Thapa's feisty mother and Shrey Rai Tiwari as Thapa's best friend with a nosy mother serve potentially hackneyed roles with an empathy that goes a long way into making the core romance convincing, at times even sublime.

The film's Kolkata locations are solidly shot by Nusrat Jafri to capture a city trapped between an evaporating traditional edifice and a rapidly developing urbanisation.

Significantly, "Kuch Bheege Alfaaz" ends not in Kolkata, but scenic, silent, serene Shimla with the film's most memorable moment of empathy where Zain's Alfaaz is shown resting his weary, guilt-ridden head on the shoulders of a grandfatherly figure.

The moment expresses a stirring mix of regret and hope, the kind of emotional synthesis that we rarely get in today's cinema. Cherish it.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The upcoming Kuwait Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq (KICRI) will provide lucrative investment opportunities for participating companies, a Kuwaiti official said on Sunday.

"I am confident that different companies will be assured of what Iraq has to offer in terms of investment opportunities, a matter that would be of great return on Iraq, its stability, as well as benefiting its people," Mohammad Abulhassan, head of the higher media committee of KICRI and Amiri Diwan Advisor, said.

He emphasised on potential projects, as well as the involvement of the Iraqi government in future ventures, in cooperation with public benefit societies and Kuwaiti charitable organisations, Xinhua reported.

Secretary General of the Iraqi Cabinet Mahdi Al-Allaq said that his country is a "promising" one, with huge potentials in terms of financial and human resources, as well as a sound investment environment.

The three-day KICRI is due to kick off on Monday, which will bring together several economically powerful countries, as well as regional and organizations on contributions to rebuild Iraq after many years of war and conflicts.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actress Mallika Sherawat has reached out to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, urging her to help in facilitation of an Indian visa for a co-founder of the NGO Free-A-Girl.

Mallika has made the request for Evelien Holsken, co-founder of the NGO, as her visa application has been repeatedly rejected.

The actress works closely with Free-A-Girl India, which fights against human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation of children in India.

"Ma'am Sushma Swaraj, co-founder of Dutch NGO Free-A-Girl has been repeatedly denied visa to India. This NGO is doing superb work for trafficked children and women. Please help!" Mallika tweeted on Monday.

The NGO focuses on creating awareness about the problem of child prostitution and the impunity of offenders of child prostitution, and is mobilising support of the local community to fight against this crime.

Mallika is the brand ambassador of "School for Justice", a unique programme by Free-A-Girl which helps girls who have been rescued from brothels by providing them with education, training and support in order to help them become lawyers and work within the judicial system.

"I feel very strongly about this issue and felt the urge to seek help in order to get support from the government and be granted visa allowance to the co-founder who has been tirelessly working for the benefit of Indian children and women.

"Sushma Swarajji has always addressed issues such as these and I am hoping to seek a positive response from her," Mallika said in a statement.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The baffling and paradoxical life of Dr. Abdus Salam, the first Pakistani and Muslim to win a Nobel Prize for Physics, is a subject of a compelling documentary by New York-based Indian American filmmaker Anand Kamalakar.

Salam (1926-1996) is a dichotomous figure in the world of science. He once said: "I would never have started to work on the subject (physics) if I was not a Muslim." Yet, in his lifetime, not only was he shunned by Pakistan, the place of his birth, because he belonged to the outlawed Ahmadiyya sect, but had the misfortune of standing up for science in a country that had no particular interest in it.

Salam once said with clear anguish that when people in the West say Islam is decaying, it is atrophied, asking how many Muslims have won the Nobel Prize. "In Britain we can say one -- Abdus Salam, in India we can say Abdus Salam. In Pakistan where he was born we can't say that because the government has decreed that he is not a Muslim."

He received his Ph.D in quantum electrodynamics at 24 and went on to do pioneering work in physics. It was only because of Pakistan's strategic interest in developing nuclear weapons, in whose early development Dr. Salam played a crucial role, that he had a brief period of official patronage.

The documentary 'Salam' -- produced by Omar Vandal, a doctorate in Immunology and Microbial Pathogenes, and Zakir Thaver, a Karachi-based science/education media producer -- was screened at the Mumbai International Film Festival on January 29. Kamalakar answered email questions from IANS. Excerpts:

Q: What prompted you to chronicle the life of Dr. Abdus Salam?

A: The producers Zakir and Omar have always been troubled by the fact that Abdus Salam was not given his rightful place in Pakistan's history because of his religious beliefs. They have been attempting to make a film to shine a light on his illustrious career since their youth. After almost 10 years of collecting archival material they approached me through an acquaintance and I was taken by their commitment and the layered story of Salam.

Q: When did you discover that science, particularly physics, and Islam were not necessarily adversarial in Dr. Salam's estimation but, in fact, complementary?

A: I discovered this while viewing the archival interviews. This aspect always fascinated me about his story. Salam went through a complicated evolution on this subject. We have tried to reveal the best we can on where he stood on this at various stages in his life. He was contradictory and controversial on this subject at many stages in his life.

Q: I ask specifically because that is at the core of his ironic and even somewhat tragic life. Here was a man who considered himself devout Muslim and precisely for that reason, chose to pursue physics, but his own country and culture, revolving around Islam, rejected him so thoroughly. How did you approach that strange dichotomy?

A: This aspect is what drew me to make this film. How did Salam reconcile working in an area of physics, which essentially attempts to prove the absence of god, and here he is, a devout Muslim who attributes his talents to his belief in Islam and god In this sense, Salam was a bit of a schizophrenic but found a way to rationalise this approach. We reveal this duality in many instances in the film But we wanted to respect his position and give it credence as he was able to walk that line and be a man of science and at the same time.

Q: Were you surprised to discover that he saw no contradiction between a pure physicist and a devout Muslim?

A: More than surprised I was fascinated. One of the reasons the producers and I found common ground is because we are all rationalists. We are non-believers and subscribe to the logic of science more than anything. So when we found that Salam saw no contradiction but in fact believed that the religious text in fact encouraged science and informed his explorations, and reality did not reflect that, it was an intriguing area to explore, especially in a time when Islam is often viewed as a regressive in the mainstream.

Q: Since you were dealing with a very sensitive theme, what kind of challenges did you face in obtaining archival audio-visual material as well as interviews?

A: We really did not face any great difficulty in procuring archival material as such. We did face difficulty though in interviewing people with the extreme point of view on the Ahmadi issue. We ended up using clips from YouTube to show the extremist view. I was denied a visa to visit Lahore. I had to hire a cameraman there and manage the shoot remotely. We never received a clear answer why I was denied a visa, even though I am a US citizen. We concluded probably because this issue is still controversial there and I am of Indian origin.

Q: Have you been able to resolve the extent of Salam's involvement in Pakistan's nuclear bomb? Journalist and author Tariq Ali says it is not clear whether Salam was involved in Pakistan's nuclear bomb. Both sides -- the Ahmadiyya and the Pakistan establishment -- have their own reasons to deny it.

A: I think this is answered in the film quite succinctly. He definitely was involved in the initial stages but then changed his mind.

Q: In the light of the way Salam was treated how do you think it impacted the future of science in Pakistan?

A: We address this is in the film with great emphasis. I think this is the greatest tragedy of his life. The younger generation of Pakistan has suffered the most and science in general has taken a back seat as a result of Salam being exiled. The casualty of any kind of intolerance towards knowledge, intelligence and brilliance are the young. Pakistan has suffered irreparable damage by distancing Salam and his legacy. At its core, this is what the message of our film is. Any kind of intolerance is damaging to the human spirit and soul.

((Mayank Chhaya is a senior journalist of Indian origin. He can be contacted at mcsix@outlook.com)

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday invited Omani businesses to invest in the country as he showcased the government's initiatives to further ease doing of business in the "New India".

Addressing around 50 Omani chief executives at the Oman-India Business Meet here, Modi said that the reforms were aimed at preparing India for the 21st century and make it a global manufacturing hub.

He said India was ushering in a knowledge-based technologically driven society which presents many opportunities for Omani businesses.

"Four countries in four-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination," Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Listing some of the major reforms by the government in the last over three years, Modi noted that India had climbed to the third position in the global Start-up Index.

On Sunday during his meeting with Sultan of Oman Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, Modi voiced his appreciation of the Indian expatriates for their contributions to Oman's development.

Oman is home to over 800,000 expatriate Indians and Modi, in a community gathering earlier on Monday, praised their role in the Gulf country's development.

Following the meeting between Modi and Sultan Qaboos, eight agreements were signed between India and Oman.

These include three memorandums of understanding on cooperation in the fields of health, outer space, diplomacy and defence studies and analyses.

The India-Oman defence cooperation has emerged as a key pillar of the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Oman is a strategic partner of India in the Gulf and an important interlocutor at the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Arab League and Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).

Modi arrived here on Sunday evening on the third and final leg of his visit to West Asia and the Gulf that also took him to Palestine and the United Arab Emirates.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A court here on Monday issued summons to former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and his wife, accused of money laundering.

After accepting the Enforcement Directorate (ED) chargesheet, Special Judge Santosh Snehi Mann asked Virbhadra Singh, his wife Pratibha Singh and three others -- Chunni Lal Chauhan, Prem Raj and Lawan Kumar Roach to appear before her on March 22.

The ED has chargesheeted Virbhadra Singh, his wife Pratibha Singh and three others -- Chunni Lal Chauhan, Prem Raj and Lawan Kumar Roach -- under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Special Public Prosecutor N.K. Matta told the court there is enough material on record to proceed against the accused in the case.

Earlier, the ED had filed its first chargesheet against Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) agent Anand Chauhan, accusing him of investing Virbhadra Singh's Rs 5.14 crore in LIC policies purchased in his name and those of his family members, including his wife.

A probe had found that Virbahdra Singh had accumulated assets worth Rs 6.03 crore in his name and in the names of his family members, which were disproportionate to his known sources of income, during his tenure as the Union Steel Minister from 2009 to 2011.

The ED alleged Virbhadra Singh, with help of his wife and Chauhan, indulged in money laundering by investing tainted money in LIC policIes in the name of his family members and to show legitimate income arising out of insurance policies.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An asteroid that hit Earth 66 million years ago may have possibly triggered a worldwide release of volcanic magma that could have sealed the fate of the dinosaurs, researchers have claimed.

A six-mile-wide asteroid crashed into Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, nearly 66 million years ago, causing a massive earthquake both on land and sea.

The impact might have also caused underwater volcanoes to spit up magma more ferociously, further intensifying the devastating environmental impact of the event, revealed a study published in the journal Science Advances.

"We found evidence for a previously unknown period of globally heightened volcanic activity during the mass-extinction event," said Joseph Byrnes from the University of Minnesota.

Since 1980s when the evidence of the meteor strike near present-day Chicxulub in Mexico surfaced, scientists have been debating whether the asteroid or eruptions from a particularly volcanic region in India called the Deccan Traps drove the extinction event that killed off all nonavian dinosaurs.

Various studies indicated that the Deccan Traps volcanoes were already active when the meteor struck. Hence, the seismic waves moving through the planet from the meteor strike, probably fuelled an acceleration of those eruptions, explained Leif Karlstrom, Professor at the University of Oregon.

For the study, the team analysed available global data sets on free-air gravity, ocean floor topography and tectonic spreading rates.

They divided the seafloor into one-million-year-old groupings, constructing a record back to 100 million years ago.

At about 66 million years, they found evidence of a "short-lived pulse of marine magmatism" along ancient ocean ridges. This pulse is suggested by a spike in the rate of the occurrence of free-air gravity anomalies seen in the data set.

Byrnes found changes in free-air gravity anomalies of between five and 20 milligals associated with seafloor created in the first million years after the meteor.

"Our work suggests a connection between these exceedingly rare and catastrophic events, distributed over the entire planet. The meteorite's impact may have influenced volcanic eruptions that were already going on, making for a one-two punch," Karlstrom said.

The meteorite may have modulated distant volcanism by generating powerful seismic waves that produced shaking worldwide and proposed that seismic shaking liberated magma stored in the mantle beneath the Deccan Traps and caused the largest eruptions there, researchers said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court on Monday said that no coercive action will be taken against Major Aditya Kumar, accused of allegedly killing three civilians in firing to disperse a stone pelting mob in Shopian district of Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir Police registered an FIR against Major Aditya Kumar.

Directing that no coercive action would be taken against the Army Major in pursuance to the FIR, a bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud sought the response from the Centre and the Mehbooba Mufti government in the state.

The father of the accused Major, Lt. Col. Karamveer Singh, had petitioned seeking quashing of the FIR.

The father contended that registration of FIR and the consequent proceedings would adversely impact the morale of the armed forces fighting militancy in the trouble-torn state.

The court asked for a copy of the petition to be served on the office of the Attorney General K.K. Venugopal.

Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, who appeared for the petitioner, urged the court to stay the FIR.

Major Aditya Kumar and other soldiers of the 10 Garhwal Rifles were accused of opening fire on a stone-pelting mob which had attacked an administrative army convoy near Ganowpora village in Shopian district on January 27.

The firing resulted in the death of three persons.

"The manner in which the lodging of the FIR has been portrayed and projected by the political leadership and administrative higher-ups of the state, reflects the extremely hostile atmosphere in the state," the petition said.

"In these circumstances, the petitioner is left with no other viable option but to approach this Court under Article 32 of the Constitution of India for protection of valuable Fundamental Rights of his son and himself, enshrined under Article 14 and 21 of the Constitution of India," the plea said.

It said that Major Aditya Kumar was wrongly and arbitrarily named as the incident relates to an Army convoy on bonafide military duty in an area under AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act), which was isolated by an "unruly and deranged" stone-pelting mob.

The intention of the Major was to save Army personnel and property, and the fire was inflicted only to impair and provide a safe escape.

"The unruly mob was requested to disperse and not to obstruct military persons in the performance of their duties and not to damage government property..."

The unruly behaviour of the unlawful assembly reached its peak when they got hold of a Junior Commissioned Officer and was in the process of lynching him.

"It was at this moment that warning shots were fired... which as per the said terms of engagement is the last resort to be taken...," the plea said.

It also sought directions to issue guidelines to protect the rights of soldiers and adequate compensation.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The British charity Oxfam will try to convince the UK government on Monday to continue its funding despite claims of sexual misconduct by its aid workers in Haiti.

The charity has been accused of concealing the findings of an inquiry that its senior staff hired prostitutes while delivering aid in Haiti after the devastating 2010 earthquake that killed hundreds of thousands of people.

Oxfam denies a cover-up and its officials were set to meet International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt later in the day, the BBC reported.

The aid workers -- including the Oxfam country director at the time, Roland van Hauwermeiren -- were accused of turning a villa rented by the organization into a makeshift brothel, with prostitutes wearing only Oxfam T-shirts.

Oxfam received about 32 million pounds ($44 million) from the government last financial year, according to public records.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt warned on Sunday that Oxfam could lose millions of pounds in public funding because of the scandal.

Mordaunt's predecessor Priti Patel shared concerns about the cover-up and wrote in the Telegraph that the Oxfam scandal was just "the tip of the iceberg".

In an interview with Sky News Patel said: "I did my own research and I have to say I had a lot of push-back within my own department ... that is the scandal. People knew about this."

A Downing Street spokesman said the British government had taken action to enforce a "zero-tolerance approach" to allegations of "horrific behaviour" by Oxfam staff. He gave no details on what the actions were.

Oxfam could also face legal action in Haiti. The country is considering pursuing criminal charges, the Haitian chief of mission to the UK, Bocchit Edmond, told CNN.

Edmond said that Oxfam representatives in Haiti would be summoned by the Foreign Ministry.

According to reports, Oxfam failed to warn NGOs about the allegations, allowing some of the accused to get jobs at other aid agencies.

The UK Charity Commission said that Oxfam informed the agency in August 2011 that the charity was conducting an internal investigation related to inappropriate sexual behaviour, bullying, harassment and the intimidation of staff.

But the aid organization failed to reveal the scope and key details of the case.

Oxfam did not deny the accusations against its staff members, but it denied a cover-up, saying that it launched a swift internal investigation after it became aware of the allegations.

Four people were fired and another three resigned, including van Hauwermeiren, the charity said.

Oxfam is one of the UK's largest and most prominent aid groups, operating development programmes in over 90 countries around the world.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Human Resource Development has backed the governments proposal to abolish the 'no detention policy in schools.

In its 300th report on the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory (Second Amendment) Bill, 2017 tabled in both Houses of Parliament, the panel has recommended allowing states their discretion in deciding about detaining a student in class 5 or or class 8 or in both classes, or not to detain in any class till the completion of elementary

However, it has asked the Central government to issue common guidelines to the states vis-a-vis detention of a child.

"The Committee feels that learning of children must be assessed through examinations in classes 5 and 8. The Committee accordingly, welcomes the proposed amendment in clause 2(1) providing for regular examination in class fifth and eighth at the end of every academic year and hopes that learning of children would improve considerably in future," it said in its report.

It observed that with the enactment of RTE Act, initially the focus was on "quantitative expansion" of but while doing so the "quality aspects of teaching and learning" were relegated to the backburner.

"This has led us to a situation which necessitates the review of the Act. It is a fact which cannot any longer be ignored. The National Council of Education Research and Training's (NCERT) National Achievement Survey or Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) have consistently revealed the abysmally low learning levels among school children. It is a cause of serious concern for the Committee," the panel said in its report.

It said that with the no detention policy, there is no pressure on the children to learn and on the teachers to teach and therefore, there was a need for policy change so as to improve the learning of children at elementary stage of education.

The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Second Amendment) Bill, 2017 was introduced in Lok Sabha on August 11, 2017 and referred to the Standing Committee on Human Resource Development by Rajya Sabha Chairman in consultation with the Speaker, Lok Sabha on August 22, 2017 for examination and Report.

The Bill seeks to substitute Section 16 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009 which provides that no child admitted in a school shall be held back in any class or expelled from school till the completion of elementary education.

This Bill provides for a regular examination in classes 5 and 8 and if the child fails, he shall be given additional opportunity for re-examination in two months time.

IT also empowers the state/union territory governments to hold a child in class 5 and 8 or either of them or not to hold in any class until elementary education is completed.

The Committee said that it would be "appropriate" if the states/UTs are allowed to take a decision as per their circumstances and needs as "there are diversities amongst states/UTs".

It pointed out that only six states/UTs desired that the no detention provision may be retained and the majority of states/UTs desired either its modification, review or withdrawalt.

"The Committee, however, suggests that common guidelines may also be issued to all states/UTs with respect to detention of a child," it said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A passenger plane with 71 people on board crashed shortly after leaving Moscow, with no hope of survival of the crew and passengers, media reported on Sunday.

The Antonov-148 of Saratov Airlines with 65 passengers and a crew of six was en route from Domodedovo Airport in Moscow to Orsk of the Orenburg Region in western Russia, Xinhua cited the Interfax news agency as saying.

Radio contact with the seven-year-old Russia-made plane was lost at 14:21 Moscow time (1121 GMT), several minutes after the takeoff.

"Tentatively, the plane has crashed near the village of Argunovo. The crew and passengers had no chance to survive," the source said.

Witnesses in the village of Argunovo told news media that they saw a burning plane falling from the sky.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered "his profound condolences to those who lost their relatives in the crash" and issued an order to set up a government commission to probe into the crash, Putin's press secretary Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying.

The Russian Investigative Committee has opened an investigation into the crash and Russian Transport Minister Maksim Sokolov has flown to the scene.

The Russian Transport Ministry said that several reasons of the crash are being considered, including weather conditions and human factors.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Maharashtra government on Monday told the Supreme Court that petitions seeking an independent probe into the death of Judge B.H. Loya were obliquely motivated, based on unverified media reports and were being orchestrated "because there is a particular functionary of a political party".

The apparent reference to "a particular functionary of a political party" was to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah, who was one of the accused in the alleged Sohrabuddin Sheikh staged shootout case. However, Shah was later discharged in the case.

Justice Loya was the judge of the Special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court that was holding the trial of the Sohrabuddin Sheikh shootout case.

Saying that PILs seeking an independent probe were moved with "oblique motive", senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi referred to the statements of the four judges of the Bombay High Court, who reached Ravi Bhawan (in Nagpur, where Judge Loya was staying) within half-an-hour of Judge Loya complaining of chest pain and uneasiness.

At the fag end of the hearing on Monday, senior counsel Dushyant Dave, who is appearing for PIL petitioner, the Bombay Lawyers Association, sought the copy of the communication sent by Commissioner of Intelligence to the four High Court judges for their statements.

Rohatgi said he has not seen it himself but added it would be made available to the senior counsel.

Rohtagi told the bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud that if the court was to reject the statements of the judges who said Judge Loya's death was natural then it has to be prima facie accepted they were conspirators to his death.

He told the court the allegation is that Judge Loya met an unnatural death and did not die of medical ailment.

Referring to the press conferences and demands being made to hold an independent probe into Judge Loya's death, Rohatgi said Loya's case was being politicised and "any further inquiry will only play into political hands..."

Rohatgi commenced his arguments referring to earlier pronouncements of the top court on PILs and said unverified media reports could not be legally admissible evidence.

Attributing oblique motives to the PILs and that the trial in Sohrabuddin Sheikh case had commenced three years after the death of Judge Loya, Rohatgi told the bench: "It is not that they have any sympathy for judiciary or concern for Judge Loya."

Taking the court through the sequence of events starting with November 29, 2014, evening when Judge Loya, along with two other trial court judges, left Bombay to attend a wedding in Nagpur, till December 1, 2014, when Judge Loya passed away, Rohatgi said that at no point of time was Judge Loya alone.

Mocking at the concern being shown by the PIL petitioners -- social activist Tehseen Poonawala, Maharashtra-based journalist Bandhuraj Sambhaji Lone, Bombay Lawyers Association and other interveners -- seeking independent probe into the death of Judge Loya, Rohatgi said everything started after a write-up appeared in the news magazine Caravan.

"No homework, no verification (of the content of the write-up) and you rely on hearsay and move the Supreme Court," Rohatgi said.

Rohatgi will continue with his arguments on February 16.

--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 will perform the 'bhoomi pooja' (ground-breaking ceremony) for the upcoming Rs 16,000 crore Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on February 18, it was announced on Monday.

The new airport, in the adjoining Raigad district, will be the second international aviation hub for Mumbai, presently served by the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which has almost achieved saturation point.

The NMIA will be constructed by the GVK Power & Infrastructure Ltd (GVKPIL) as per a Concession Agreement signed on January 8, with the City & Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), the nodal authority of Maharashtra to oversee the project implementation.

The agreement has created a special purpose vehicle - Navi Mumbai International Airport Pvt. Ltd (NMIAL), in which the GVKPIL, through its subsidiary, Mumbai International Pvt Ltd, holds 74 percent equity, while the rest is held by CIDCO.

The initial concession period is 30 years, from the appointed date, which is extendable by another 10 years, for the project in which GVKPIL was declared the successful bidder in February 2017.

The NMIAL, a greenfield airport, will be constructed in the PPP mode on 1,160 hectares on the mainland in Navi Mumbai, across the Mumbai harbour, with the advantage of the upcoming Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, a Special Economic Zone and other major infrastructure developments coming up.

CIDCO, which holds 26 per cent stake, will foot the pre-development expenses which will be later recovered from GVK, besides getting a 12.6 per cent share in the annual revenue from the mega-project.

The GVK, which currently manages the Mumbai International Airport Ltd, had submitted the highest revenue sharing model of 12.6 per cent per annum over its sole closest competitor GMR (which manages the New Delhi International Airport) which had quoted a figure of 10.44 per cent.

With two major airports under its belt, the GVK plans to soar and develop its airports business globally.

Besides Modi, Maharashtra Governor C.V. Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Civil Aviation Minister P. A. Gajapathi Raju, Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, top GVK and CIDCO officials will be present for the event next Sunday.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)As Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday called for India-Pakistan talks, the Congress said the "present context of bloodshed" is not a suitable time, while rapping the Central and state governments' "failure" to stop attacks.

"Present context of bloodshed is hardly an apposite ambiance for dialogue. Neither state nor Central government has been able to prevent wanton killings. The nation is a helpless spectator to martyrdom of our brave soldiers," Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi told IANS.

Mehbooba Mufti on Monday called for India-Pakistan talks, adding that she will be dubbed "anti-national" by TV channels for making the appeal, but stressing dialogue is necessary if they want to end bloodshed in the state.

The Chief Minister's appeal comes amid a spurt in militant violence in the state as well as unending border clashes between Indian and Pakistani militaries.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The White House said on Sunday that a senior advisor of US President Donald Trump visited Turkey on February 10 and 11 amid escalating tensions of the two NATO allies over Turkey's attack in Afrin, Syria.

Citing a White House statement, Xinhua reported that H.R. McMaster, Trump's National Security Advisor, met with Ibrahim Kalin, Deputy Secretary and Spokesperson of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in his visit to Istanbul.

During their meeting, Kalin and McMaster affirmed the bilateral strategic partnership and discussed the "priorities and concerns" and common strategic challenges of both countries, said the White House.

It added that they addressed issues affecting bilateral relations in detail and explored ways to expand the joint fight against all forms of terrorism.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will also visit Turkey next week in his Middle East trip and US Secretary of Defense James Mattis is also due to meet his Turkish counterpart Nurettin Canikli in Brussels.

Relations between Washington and Ankara have been highly strained, in part due to US support for the the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Syria.

Turkey sees the YPG as Syrian offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which is designated as a terrorist group by Turkey, the US and the EU.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on Monday revealed more details of their forthcoming wedding on May 19.

The couple will marry at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, at midday and, at 1 p.m., they will travel through Windsor, Berkshire, in a carriage, the BBC reported.

Kensington Palace said the couple are "hugely grateful for the many good wishes they have received".

The palace also confirmed that the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, will marry the prince and Markle.

The Rt Rev David Conner, dean of Windsor, will conduct the service at St George's Chapel.

The chapel holds about 800 people, making it a more intimate setting than the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's wedding in Westminster Abbey.

The couple will then return to a reception for guests from the congregation at St. George's Hall.

That evening, Prince Charles will give a private evening reception for the couple and close friends and family, the BBC reported.

Markle will be baptised into the Church of England and confirmed before the wedding.

The wedding will take place just a month after the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expected to welcome their third child.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Punjab Police on Monday launched its online campaign in a bid to counter the growing threat of gangsters and criminals in the state.

The online campaign was formally launched by the Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh as the state police went live on social media with a YouTube channel, Twitter account and a Facebook page, in the presence of Director General of Police (DGP) Suresh Arora and other senior officers.

The DGP has got a separate Twitter account.

Arora said that the police has taken to the social media to aggressively counter the growing threat of gangsters and criminals.

"The social media campaign of the police will go a long way in bridging the gap between the police and the citizens, and also at tackling the abuse of social media by gangsters and criminals seeking to spread terror in the state," the Chief Minister said.

He called upon the police to use social media in a productive manner to connect with various sections of society, particularly the youth, in order to provide transparent, responsive and effective policing.

The move comes in wake of the reports of several gangsters, both inside and outside prisons, using social media to threaten police, intimidate people and self-promotion of their criminal acts.

"Social media can be of immense help in effectively handling law and order situations, prevention and detection of crimes, and other aspects of policing," the Chief Minister said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Sri Lanka's former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his party, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), have won a local government election in the island nation after the party won 239 local bodies out of 340, the Elections Commission announced on Monday.

The ruling United National Party (UNP) led by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe won 41 local government bodies while the ITAK, which represents the minority Tamil population, won 34. The Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), led by President Maithripala Sirisena, won 10 local bodies.

Following the government's defeat, President Sirisena on Sunday met ministers from the SLFP who are part of the unity government and said he would bring noticeable changes within the coming days, Xinhua news agency reported.

"The people of the country have voted for a change and I will respond positively to their message and introduce necessary changes accordingly as soon as possible," Sirisena told his cabinet ministers.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe in a meeting with his UNP ministers also said that the election result was a "wake-up call" for the UNP and he intended to take some drastic decisions to put the government back on track.

Both the President and Prime Minister said they would continue the unity government till its full term which ends in 2020.

Speaking to reporters in the capital, Rajapaksa said that following his party's victory, they would now work towards developing the grassroots levels in order to gain economic stability.

Over 15 million people cast their votes in the local government election held on Saturday.

Some 8,350 members were elected to 340 councils across the country following Saturday's polls.

The local councils are the third tier of governance in Sri Lanka after the Parliament and the Provincial Councils and are primarily responsible for local affairs such as the development of village access roads, garbage collection, and maintenance of basic local infrastructure.

Rajapaksa was defeated by Sirisena in a presidential election in January 2015 and later came back as an opposition parliamentarian and formed his own political party, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Ranchi court on Monday awarded death sentence to a person convicted for the rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in 2014, a lawyer said.

The court of Shivapal Singh pronounced the quantum of sentence on Monday on Gandhi Oraon, who was convicted for the crime on January 31.

Oraon, a bus driver's assistant, raped the minor at the Khadgara bus stand on March 21, 2014 after luring her away by promising her a chocolate.

As the girl kept crying after the rape, he crushed her head with a big stone. The body was found the next day.

The girl's father lodged an FIR against Oraon, who was arrested while he was trying to flee to West Bengal. The accused has been in jail since 2014.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)With allegations against South African President Jacob Zuma stirring "discord" in the governing African National Congress (ANC) party, its leaders, which met on Monday to decide his fate, are likely to ask him to quit, reports said.

The National Executive Committee (NEC) is likely to ask the South African President to step down, a BBC report said.

ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the issue was causing "disunity and discord" as Zuma faced a number of corruption charges after nine years in power.

"There are 112 members of the NEC, and many may want to share their views during the meeting in Pretoria -- meaning they may not finish until late on Monday," the BBC report said, adding that Zuma is not legally obliged to step down if the NEC asks him to.

"However, he would then be expected to face a confidence vote in parliament. The date for this has already been set for February 22," the report noted.

Ramaphosa on Sunday said that the people "want this matter to be finalised" and that the ANC would comply.

Acknowledging that his party was going through "a period of difficulty, disunity and discord", he said he was seeking "a new beginning".

Last week, an NEC meeting was called off as Zuma and Ramaphosa directly met for talks to reach a conclusion.

Zuma faces the allegations of corruption as his links in recent years to a wealthy India-born Gupta family is believed to have influenced the government.

However, both the President and the Guptas have denied the allegations levelled against them.

Zuma has not been found guilty in any of the 18 corruption charges levelled against him. The allegations stem from a 1990s arms deal which were dropped before he became President in 2009, following incumbent Thabo Mbeki's resignation in 2008.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Days after falling short of quorum to hold a cabinet meeting, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday asked his cabinet to ensure that all are in attendance for five days a week.

The dressing down came after Vijayan faced severe flak for failing to proceed with the cabinet meeting on Friday as the prescribed cabinet strength was not met.

The special cabinet was called to claer 10 ordinances for Governor P. Sathasivam's approval.

However as only six cabinet members were present, including Vijayan, the Chief Minister was forced to call off the meeting.

As per the convention, the prescribed quorum in Kerala is fixed as majority of the cabinet. The strength of the present state cabinet, including Vijayan, is 19.

Soon after assuming office in May 2016, Vijayan had asked his colleagues to ensure that all of them be present in the state capital for five days a week.

However, after a while, that was scaled down to four. Despite that, just six were present on February 9.

On Friday after word went around that the cabinet meeting could not take place for want of quorum, the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party opposition came down heavily on Vijayan and the way he was governing the state.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Filmmaker Luv Ranjan, looking forward to the release of his film "Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety", says his movies capture the north Indian milieu because it helps him remain true to his stories and his world.

Whether it is "Pyaar Ka Punchnama", "Akaash Vani" and "Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety" - Ranjan has created a niche for himself with movies that encapsulate the conflict of the modern relationship among youngsters and various shades of the city Delhi.

There's a monotony. Is he bothered about it?

Ranjan told IANS here: "Delhi... Uttar Pradesh... In short, the northern part (of India) is my world. Why should I change the city just for the sake of it?

"The way I know Delhi and can capture its nuance, I doubt if I can do the same with Mumbai. Neither have my stories demanded that so far. This is how I am trying to stay true to my story and my world.

"If you find my films somewhere similar, that is because all the stories are set in Delhi. So, the colour, tone, people and their speaking style seem similar," said the filmmmaker, who belongs to the capital city.

Ranjan says credit must be given to filmmakers like Dibakar Banerjee and Shoojit Sircar who gave Delhi prominence in Hindi cinema from 2006.

While films like "Khosla Ka Ghosla" and "Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!" brought a huge change in the new-age Hindi cinema from 2006, the trend continued with movies like "Pyaar Ka Punchnama" and "Vicky Donor", "Piku" and "Pink" the trend continued. And in all these films, Delhi city played an important character.

There's also Imtiaz Ali, whose films feature Delhi.

Ranjan said: "As a filmmaker, I do not find that 'sur', that element, in Mumbai. Keeping those big budget films aside, I think even our audience love watching stories of the small towns of north India.

"We have examples like 'Bareilly Ki Barfi', 'Shubh Mangal Saavdhan', 'Toilet: Ek Prem Katha' from last year. So, yes, I am not planning to shift the city of my story soon."

Another common factor in his movies is the tussle between friendship and love in all his films. Ranjan said friends are the new extended family members in a modern relationship, and that's what he attempts to capture.

"Prioritizing one over another between two equally important people in our life is a task and that is one of the quite interesting elements for me to explore.

"In modern time, where people are migrating all over places, friends are equally important as family. My film is a reflection of that.

"So in my film, I am trying to capture that pulse of relationship where the tone of the story is very relatable. I am showing a new perspective of our regular relation without giving 'gyaan', in a light-hearted manner," said the filmmaker.

"Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety", featuring Kartik Aaryan, Sunny Singh and Nushrat Bharucha, will release on February 23.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In a bid to curb the menace of stubble burning, the Punjab government has issued a set of instructions for owners of combine harvesters in the state.

These instructions are aimed at saving the from air pollution caused by stubble burning, a senior official said on Monday.

Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) chairman K.S. Pannu said that the owners of combine harvesters who want to harvest paddy in the state have been directed to attach a super straw management system with the harvester combine.

He said instructions have been issued that no harvester combine shall be allowed to harvest paddy in the state without a functional super straw management system.

"The instructions have been issued under Section 31 A of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981," Pannu said here.

Pannu stated under various notifications, Punjab has been declared as air pollution control area.

He said that the Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, has also recommended that super straw management system be attached to self-propelled combine harvesters, which cuts the paddy straw into small pieces and spread the same.

"With this method of harvesting, farmers are not required to burn the paddy straw, before sowing the next crop," Pannu pointed out.

He said that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had, on December 10, 2015, prohibited agricultural residue burning in NCR, including Punjab.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Relations between Turkey and the US, strained by American support for the Syrian Democratic Forces, are close to breaking down, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Monday.

Declaring bilateral ties at a "critical point", Cavusoglu said: "We will either fix the ties or they will break down completely."

Speaking to the press in Istanbul following a meeting with African leaders, he said Washington had made several mistakes in handling its relationship with Ankara, including giving support to the Kurdish militia in Syria known as the People's Protection Units (YPG).

"We want concrete steps (from the US). The missing trust needs to be restored. The reason for that missing trust is the US," Cavusoglu was quoted as saying by the Hurriyet Daily News.

"The US is not touching ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) members in Syria as an excuse to continue working with the YPG/PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party) terrorist groups," he added.

Turkish troops launched an air and ground offensive against YPG-held Afrin in northwestern Syria on January 20. Ankara treats the Kurdish militants as terrorists associated with the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party.

Turkey has threatened to target Manbij, another Syrian town held by the YPG, in its next move, but the US has refused to withdraw its troops from the town as demanded by Ankara, heightening the risk of a direct confrontation between the NATO allies.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's security and foreign policy adviser Ibrahim Kalin met US National Security Adviser Herbert Raymond McMaster in Istanbul over the weekend. Foreign and Defence Ministers of the two countries are set to meet respectively in Ankara and Brussels in the coming days.

Cavusoglu said all the sensitive issues will be discussed in detail during US State Secretary Rex Tillerson's visit to Ankara.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Donald Trump administration is working on a transition plan that could turn the International Space Station (ISS) over to the private sector after federal funding for the orbiting laboratory ends in 2025, The Washington Post has reported, citing an internal NASA document.

As per the document, end of direct federal support should not imply that the orbiting laboratory, which is currently contracted to Boeing and costs NASA more than $3 billion every year, itself will be "deorbited" at that time.

"It is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform," according to the document cited by the Post on Sunday.

"NASA will expand international and commercial partnerships over the next seven years in order to ensure continued human access to and presence in low Earth orbit," it added.

While the transition could help NASA focus its resources on exploring deep space, such a plan could invite objections from many quarters -- both domestic and international.

"As a fiscal conservative, you know one of the dumbest things you can to is cancel programmes after billions in investment when there is still serious usable life ahead," Texas senator Ted Cruz was quoted as saying by the Post.

What the NASA document does no state is what private companies might do with the space station and which enterprises could show interest to run it.

Moreover, an international partnership of space agencies provides and operates the elements of the ISS, and therefore, the Trump administration's plant to turn it into a commercially-run venture might face objections from other space agency partners.

"It will be very hard to turn ISS into a truly commercial outpost because of the international agreements that the United States is involved in," Frank Slazer, Vice President of Space Systems for the Aerospace Industries Association, was quoted as saying.

Last month, Boeing's space station programme manager Mark Mulqueen warned that "walking away from the International Space Station now would be a mistake, threatening American leadership and hurting the commercial market as well as the scientific community".

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The US Navy has launched a probe against American sailors based in Japan for the alleged use and distribution of drugs, a spokesman for the US Seventh Fleet has confimed.

"The Navy has zero tolerance for drug abuse and takes all allegations involving misconduct of our sailors, Navy civilians and family members very seriously," Commander Clay Doss, public affairs officer for the Seventh Fleet, told CNN on Sunday.

"These allegations are still under investigation and it would be inappropriate to comment further."

News of the investigation by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) was first reported by the Wall Street Journal on Friday.

The daily said the drugs involved included LSD and ecstasy, among others, and that at least a dozen US Navy personnel were under suspicion.

The report said some of those being investigated were serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan as well as on shore in Japan.

Suspicions that drugs had been sold to Japanese residents means that Japanese authorities were also investigating, it added.

The Reagan, based in Yokosuka near Tokyo, is the only one of the US Navy's 11 aircraft carriers homeported outside of the US, reports CNN.

If the drug allegations prove true, it would be the latest in a string of bruising black eyes for the Seventh Fleet, which has seen two of its guided-missile destroyers involved in deadly collisions with cargo vessels in the past year, reports of exhausted crews plagued by poor morale, and dozens of its former officers entangled in a Pacific-wide corruption scandal.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Veteran Odia actress Mahasweta Ray on Monday joined the opposition BJP in the presence of Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan here.

Ray is one of the most acclaimed actors in the state and has worked in over 80 films in Odia and other languages.

"I joined the Bharatiya Janata Party as I am inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. I will work for the betterment of Odisha," Ray said.

Pradhan said the party would be strengthened by her joining.

Last month, Odia film actors Mihir Das and Anu Choudhury also joined the BJP.

Earlier, several Ollywood actors, including Sritam Das, Pinky Pradhan, Harihar Mohapatra, and Ajit Das had joined the party.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Veteran Odia actress, producer and director Parbati Ghosh passed away here early on Monday after pro-longed illness. She was 85.

The national award-winning actress was ailing for sometime.

Ghosh was rushed to a private hospital here after she complained of uneasiness. She was admitted at around 12.30 a.m. and she breathed her last after a few minutes.

Born in 1933, in Manasinghpatana in Cuttack, Ghosh was conferred with the national film award for her stellar performances in films "Laxmi", "Kaa" and "Stree".

Ollywood fraternity mourned her death. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also expressed grief over her demise and announced a state funeral.

"I am deeply shocked at the passing away of veteran film personality Parbati Ghosh. She was an icon and one of the greatest gifts to Odia cinema industry...," said the Chief Minister.

In the early days of Odia cinema, she single-handedly raised it to a new level. She was really a symbol of women empowerment when ideas like empowerment were unheard of, said Patnaik.

"Her departure is a great loss to our industry and the world of silver screen. She will always be remembered for her contribution to Odia cinema," he added.

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed his condolence on her death.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court on Monday came down heavily on the Uttar Pradesh government for not putting before the Assembly a bill to restore the legal provision for anticipatory bail that was taken away in 1975 during the Emergency.

A division bench of Justice S.A. Bobde and Justice L.N. Rao asked the state to make its stand clear in two weeks and directed the state Law Secretary to be personally present in court on the next date of hearing to explain the government's position.

Why has the Code of Criminal Procedure (UP) Amendment Bill 2010 not been placed before the Assembly after it was sent back by the President on some technical grounds in September 2011, the court asked.

"You want to create some problem or other. Are you willing to act or not? Why did the government not discharge its constitutional duties by getting the proposal passed in the Assembly with amendment?"

The apex court also sought the presence of a senior Central government officer and directed Senior Advocate Yashank Adhyaru to get instructions from the Union Home Ministry on the issue.

In 2010, the Mayawati government had got passed a law in the Assembly to provide for anticipatory bail, but the then President, while seeking some clarifications, had sent it back to the Governor in September 2011. Since then, the Uttar Pradesh government didn't get the proposal passed again in the Assembly with amendment.

The apex court was hearing a public interest litigation by advocate Sanjeev Bhatnagar who sought restoration of Section 438 of the Code of Criminal Procedure which provides for the grant of anticipatory bail to a person apprehending arrest.

The said provision, the PIL said, was omitted in Uttar Pradesh by inserting Section 9 in the Uttar Pradesh Amendment Act, 1976, which came into effect from November 28, 1975.

Bhatnagar sought the quashing of this provision on the grounds of it being "invalid, illegal and ultra vires of the Constitution".

The PIL said the present situation was leading to immense hardships to people, besides depriving them of their legal and constitutional right to equality before law.

Seeking the restoration of the provision for anticipatory bail, the petitioner said a larger public interest would be served if the apex court issued directions to the Uttar Pradesh government to this effect.

Earlier, the Supreme Court had noted that "it is imperative to re-establish the provision for anticipatory bail to enable the Sessions courts as well as the Allahabad High Court to grant anticipatory bail".

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Setting a rare example that has drawn applause, a poverty-stricken woman in Bihar collected money through begging for constructing a toilet at her house, an official said on Monday.

Amina Khatoon, a resident of Pathra Uttar village under Pipra block of Supaul district in flood-prone Koshi region, begged in the neighbouring villages to collect the money for constructing a toilet, the official said.

Moved by her commitment, a mason, and a labourer, who worked for her, refused to take their wages, Amina said. She was felicitated by the district administration on Sunday at a function in her village for her unique effort.

Amina, a widow in her late 40s and mother of a minor boy, is working as a labourer to earn her livelihood.

According to Amina, when she approached the concerned block level officials for funds to construct a toilet, they ignored her - highlighting the official apathy towards the very poor, despite the hype around Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in Bihar.

Bihar is at the bottom as far as eradicating open defecation is concerned.

Millions of people in Bihar still practice open defecation and not a single district has so far been declared ODF (Open Defecation Free). But it is a different matter that the state government has targeted an ODF Bihar by October 2, 2019, under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G).

--IANS

ik/and/rn

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)It's not a great idea to splurge even when times are good. This is an oft-repeated mantra in the start-up community and Amit Sinha, COO of Paytm Mall, proved that during a recent visit to Bangalore.

When his colleagues advised him to rush through some meetings to avoid having to reschedule his flight back to Delhi, Sinha obliged, no questions asked. As Friday evenings are a much sought after time to fly out of the city, it is difficult to find an airline ticket that is priced less than Rs 25,000. Sinha explained even founder/CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma flies with the cheapest ticket ...Theres an event management company that organises events in different states. Does it need to register in all states? The Government through its FAQ tweets has clarified that in case of event-related services, a supplier shall be required to obtain the GST registration in the state where the event is held only if such person supplies services from such state.

Where the services are provided from a different state, the supplier can charge IGST, treating the location of the event as the Place of Supply. Therefore, the need for the event ...A strange coincidence, this. In New Delhi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi is believed to have insisted that the party would do very well in Maharashtra in the Lok Sabha polls 15 months away.

Gandhi, in an informal chat, is understood to have said that Maharashtra would be prominent among more than six states where the party expects to fare well, raising its tally by some 70 seats. At almost the same time in Mumbai last week, a meeting was on at the official residence of the Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra assembly, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, a Congressman. The agenda? Drawing up ...On the go Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on whirlwind trips next week, travelling within the country and abroad. On Thurday, the PM will fly to Tripura on his second visit in two weeks to address a public meeting in Agartala.

The trip is crucial to ensure that the Bhartiya Janata Party holds sway in the upcoming Assembly elections on February 18. Modi will also travel to several West Asian countries, including the UAE and Oman, and address a Global Governance summit in Dubai. On Sunday, the PM will be in Mumbai to kick off the construction of the long-delayed Navi Mumbai ...Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs, Abdul Rehman Veeri, informed the state Assembly that a CRPF personnel had been killed in the ongoing encounter between terrorists and security forces in the Karan Nagar area of Srinagar.

Giving details, the minister said that at about 4:30 am on Monday, a sentry at CRPF 23 Battalion Headquarters, Karan Nagar, spotted two militants carrying 'Pithu' (backpack) bags and armed with AK-47 rifles. He opened fire due to which the militants escaped towards a nearby locality.

The minister said that a search was conducted. The search party was fired upon near Gole Market which led to an encounter, he added.

He said the militants have been cornered in an abandoned house near 23 Bn CRPF headquarters. The encounter is still on, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The East Delhi Municipal Corporation has issued notices to 11 "illegally-run" de- addiction centres in Shahdara, the civic body said today.

Officials said notices have also been served to two hospitals in this connection.

The action was taken in Shahdara (North) Zone of the EDMC by the Public Health department of the corporation on the directions of the area's Deputy Commissioner Deepak Shinde, the EDMC said in a statement.

"The two hospitals were not registered with the social welfare department and therefore, notice has been served to them," Shinde was quoted as saying in the statement.

He said in compliance with the orders of the Supreme Court, "these 11 illegally-run de-addiction centres will be sealed very soon".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)About 2,300 Army personnel are leaving for South Sudan to join the UN peace keeping mission in the war-torn African country, the Army said today.

The Army personnel, joining the UN mission, are from Infantry battalion of Garhwal Rifles regiment.

"To support the United Nations efforts in bringing peace and normalcy in a war torn country of South Sudan, Indian Army is contributing around 2,300 personnel," Army Spokesperson Col Aman Anand said.

He said the the unit will be in operational control of the sensitive Jonglei state.

According to official figures, India is the largest cumulative troop contributor, having provided almost 200,000 troops in nearly 50 of the 71 UN peacekeeping missions over the past six decades, including 13 of the current 16 missions.

Last year, a total of 7,606 Indian peacekeepers were deployed in UN missions.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad today said that seven central forensic labs will be notified in three weeks so that they could provide electronic evidence in courts.

"Under section 79 (A) of the Information Technology Act, my department notifies forensic laboratories which can give electronic evidence in court.

"In three weeks, we will notify seven central forensic laboratories which will also include Gujarat University. Experts from these laboratories can depose in court as expert electronic witnesses," Prasad, Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, said here on the sidelines of a conference on forensic science.

Addressing the concluding session of the 24th All India Forensic Science Conference, Prasad called on forensic experts to meet the challenges of cyber security during India's transformation to a digital economy.

"India is changing through digital economy, but there are challenges. Many people are abusing this system, and this is our challenge. I would like the forensic team to think about challenges," Prasad, who also holds the portfolio of law and justice, said.

Prasad said that while India emerged as a major centre for social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter, some people were misusing it to foment trouble and spread hatred.

The minister asked a gathering mainly comprising forensic experts and students: Is it not the duty of the police force to counter false And should this not be the work of forensic teams to find out what kind of people are doing this and help police take action against them?



"While we appreciate the rise of the WhatsApp movement in the country, if there is abuse, it is equally the responsibility of forensic teams to understand the challenge.

"India is becoming a big centre of data and there is enormous potential for data analysis. If we can use it for good, others can abuse it for bad," he said, while urging the younger forensic students to come up with innovative and effective solutions to "contain the dark consequences of the dark net".

Prasad also asked universities teaching forensic science to run campaigns to create awareness among the common public so that they don't fall prey to the criminals operating on digital platforms.

Speaking on the right to privacy, Prasad said: "We respect the right to privacy in terms of income record, medical record. The Modi government supports the right to speech, privacy and empowerment of common man. But it cannot become the shield of the corrupt and terrorists".

Asked about the recent terror attacks, he said that the government had managed to isolate Pakistan in the world.

"Those who attack are also killed or held. Today Pakistan is isolated in the world. I would like to ask the Opposition and Rahul Gandhi on their irresponsible behaviour in seeking proof of the surgical strikes. Today, countries of the Middle East are standing with India on terrorism, and we will be able to destroy their (Pakistan's) terrorist intention," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has signed an agreement to store about 6 million barrels of crude oil at India's maiden strategic oil reserve.

The agreement to store crude oil at the Mangalore underground caverns was signed on Saturday during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Abu Dhabi, a statement issued by Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Ltd (ISPRL) said.

The pact, which was signed by HPS Ahuja, CEO & MD, ISPRL and Abdulla Salem Al Dhaheri, Director Marketing, Sales and Trading, ADNOC, envisages storage of 5.86 million barrels of crude by the UAE firm in the underground storage cavern.

ADNOC had last year given up its crude storage lease in South Korea and instead agreed to store oil at Mangalore in a bid to establish ground presence in world's third largest oil consuming nation.

Out of the crude stored, a part would be used for commercial purposes by ADNOC, while a major part would be purely for strategic purposes.

ISPRL has built around 39 million barrels (5.33 million tonnes) of strategic crude oil storage at three locations -- Padur and Mangalore on the western coast and Visakhapatnam on the eastern coast.

The oil stored in the underground rock caverns at the three locations are to be used in an emergency.

The Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR) at Mangalore consists of two compartments with a total storage capacity of 1.5 million tonnes (11 million barrels), the statement said.

While one compartment has been filled with crude oil through funds made available by the government, the other compartment will be filled by crude supplied by ADNOC, the statement said.

"The oil storage facility will help boost India's energy security, as well as enable ADNOC to efficiently and competitively meet market demand in India and across the fast-developing southeast Asian economies." it added.

India imports over 80 per cent of its crude oil needs, out of which about 8 per cent is supplied by the UAE.

ADNOC hired the Mangalore storage just as it ended a contract to store 6 million barrels of crude oil at Korea National Oil Corp's Yeosu facility in the country's southwest coast.

South Korea had first right over the oil in the event of a supply emergency.

While the Vishakhapatnam storage of ISPRL has a capacity of 1.33 million tonnes (9.77 million barrels) of crude oil, Padur can stock 2.5 million tonnes (18.37 million barrels).

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today said that action would be taken against those involved in the vandalism at the official residence of his private secretary V K Pandian.

Patnaik gave the assurance to the government employees organisations when they met him during the day.

"Associations from all over the state have given me petitions regarding the unfortunate incident. Appropriate action will be taken," Patnaik told reporters.

The associations also urged him to take steps to avoid reoccurrences of such incident in future.

They alleged that a group of miscreants holding BJP flag had barged into the official residence of Pandian and damaged flower pots and vehicles parked inside the quarters on Saturday last.

The miscreants also hurled cow dungs and stones at his residence, they alleged.

The police have arrested four persons in this connection.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The ADB today said it will provide USD 100 million to Nepal government for upgrading nearly 400 km of rural roads to all-weather standards.

The Rural Connectivity Improvement Project will also serve the agriculture sector and bring access to 7.5 million people in 16 districts, according to a press release issued by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Nepal.

This project is in line with the goal of the government's Agriculture Development Strategy signed in 2015 of encouraging commercial agriculture, increasing productivity, creating new rural jobs and increasing prosperity, it said.

The project aims to increase transport efficiency in project areas. It is expected to improve the rural road conditions between the selected rural communities, agriculture production areas and enhance capacity of rural infrastructure agency and road users in project areas.

Similarly, the ADB has also pledged to provide USD one million to restructure the Department of Local Infrastructure Development and Agricultural Roads into a state-of-the-art rural road agency, it said.

The project is expected to be completed by January 31, 2023, the release said.

Finance Secretary Shankhar Prasad Adhikari and ADB's country director for Nepal Mukhtor Khamudhhanov signed the loan agreement on behalf of the Nepal government and the ADB, respectively, it said.

The ADB, conceived in the early 1960s as a financial institution, assists its members and partners by providing loans, technical assistance, grants and equity investments to promote social and economic development.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Accusing the CPI (M)-led Left Front government in Tripura of depriving the people of "basic amenities", Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today appealed to the voters of the state to oust the Marxist government in the February 18 Assembly polls.

He also slammed the Left Front government for its "poor governance" and alleged that the common people of the state, who were not associated with the ruling party, were being deprived of the benefits of the Prime Minister Awas Yojana.

"The people of Tripura are being deprived of the basic amenities. The communist government here does not provide the poor people with any opportunity to be self-reliant. Why should the people keep them for such a long period in power? The Marxists must be ousted," the BJP leader told an election rally here in North Tripura district.

Adityanath also led a 10-km roadshow in Dharmanagar town, the headquarters of North Tripura district.

The roadshow ended at the Gorakshanath temple at Padmapukur, about three km from here, where the Uttar Pradesh chief minister performed a "puja".

"Governance in the state is very bad and the common people do not get the benefits of the Prime Minister Awas Yojana, unless he or she is a party member," Adityanath said.

The BJP is making a serious bid to remove the Left Front government in Tripura, which is in power for the last 25 years.

The saffron party is contesting the February 18 polls in alliance with the Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT).

The results of the polls will be declared on March 3, along with the results of the Meghalaya and Nagaland Assembly elections.

Adityanath alleged that even "a first-class employee in Tripura does not get the salary of a fourth-class employee in the other states because the recommendations of the central pay commission have not been implemented in the state".

Quoting from the BJP's poll manifesto for Tripura, he promised that the awards of the 7th Central Pay Commission would be implemented in the north-eastern state after the BJP came to power.

"Our mantra is development and good governance," the Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, adding that wherever the BJP was in power, the people were enjoying the fruits of development and good governance.

Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's motto of "Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas" and "Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat", he said the central government had introduced various schemes such as Startup India, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana etc. for the welfare of the people.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Suspended Congress Leader Mani Shankar Aiyar today called for an "uninterrupted and uninterruptible" dialogue between India and Pakistan to resolve issues.

Aiyar, 76, suspended by the Congress from the party for his "neech" (lowly) jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Gujarat Assembly polls, was here to attend 'Karachi Literature Festival'.

During a session, he hailed Islamabad for seeking to resolve issues with India through dialogue, saying New Delhi does not have this policy, Geo TV reported.

"There is only one way of resolving India-Pakistan issues and that is by an uninterrupted and uninterruptible dialogue," Aiyar said.

The Indian politician said that he is "proud" of Pakistan for having this policy, however, regretted its non- reciprocation by New Delhi, the Pakistani media report said.

"And I am very proud and half very sad that this sentence of these three words has been accepted as Pakistan policy, but has not been accepted as Indian policy," Aiyar was quoted as saying by the media report here.

His words followed an applause from the audience.

Aiyar further said that Kashmir and terrorism are the two main issues that need to be dealt with.

He also said that both India and Pakistan should adopt a framework formulated by former president Pervez Musharraf's government, the report added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Seeking to corner the ruling BJP government on law and order in the state, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said today that the killing of a Dalit student in Allabahad showed that state was in the "grip of criminal elements".

"No law and order is prevailing in the state. Murder of a Dalit student in Allahabad shows that the state is in the grip of criminal elements and the police is only killing innocents in encounters," Yadav said here.

Demanding a Rs 50 lakh compensation for the family of the Dalit law student killed in Allahabad, he claimed law and order had collapsed under the present regime.

A second year LLB student Dileep Saroj (26) died after he was thrashed by a group following an altercation outside a restaurant in Allahabad on Feb 9 night. One person had already been arrested in this regard, police said.

Yadav said the people of UP were living in fear and there was no guarantee of one's life and asked who would visit the state under such circumstances, apparently taking a dig at the state government's attempts to attract investment.

Alleging that BJP ministers were not following law and were using unparliamentary language against the opposition, he said, "this is threat to democracy. Attack on socialism is an attack on democracy".

According to a recent newspaper report, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had allegedly linked 'samajwad' (socialism) with 'atankwad' (terrorism) during an event here.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Centre is making efforts to connect all villages through a road network by next year as part of the 'Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna', said Union Minister Ram Kripal Yadav today.

"Earlier, the target to compete these works was 2022 but it has been advanced to 2019," the Union Minister of State for Rural Development told PTI.

The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) was launched by the Central government to provide connectivity to unconnected habitations as part of a poverty reduction strategy.

Earlier, Yadav inaugurated a training programme on 'financing small enterprises for rural development' at the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR) here.

Thirty-five delegates from Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka are participating in the five-day programme.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh today said he will urge the defence minister to simplify and expedite clearances required for shooting war based movies and biopics on war heroes.

Amarinder made this assurance to Producer-Director J P Dutta, when the latter had called on the chief minister, along with the team of his next movie, 'Paltan'.

The movie is based on the 1967 India-China clashes at Nathu La (Sikkim), said an official release here.

Dutta, who is currently shooting for the movie in Punjab, said film-makers were seriously constraint by the fact that multiple clearances were required while making defence-related movies.

This leads to major delays, often deterring film-makers from making such movies, said official release quoting Dutta.

After hearing Dutta's concern, Amarinder said he would raise the issue with the defence minister.

It was in the interest of the defence forces as such movies could help inspire youngsters to join the armed forces, Amarinder, an ex-Army official, said.

Dutta has given the film industry some of the best war dramas of all time, including the National Award winning "Border".

He was accompanied by actors Sonu Sood, Arjun Rampal, Sonal Chauhan, Monica Gill, Gautam, Nidhi Dutta, Gurmeet Choudhary, Luv Sinha and Harshvardhan Rane.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Amy Schumer has confirmed her rumoured romance with chef Chris Fischer.

The 36-year-old actor-comic shared a greyscale picture on Instagram in which the new couple can be seen sharing a kiss in a photo booth at popular host Ellen DeGeneres' star-studded 60th birthday party.

"Happy Birthday @theellenshow thank you for having us!" Schumer captained the photo.

The duo sparked rumours after they were spotted dining together in New York City in early November 2017.

The "I Feel Pretty" was earlier in a relationship with Ben Hanisch. They broke up in May last year after dating for two years.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jamie Anderson survived high winds which disrupted the crash-filled women's slopestyle snowboarding competition to successfully defend her Olympic title today.

The 27-year-old took gold despite briefly going over in her final run, with Laurie Blouin of Canada earning silver and Finland's Enni Rukajarvi taking bronze.

Britain's Katie Ormerod and Australian Tess Coady both suffered competition-ending injuries on the slopestyle course, which features high rails and huge jumps to negotiate in the swirling winds.

Sunday's qualifiers were scrapped because of the strong wind, and the final was also delayed for more than an hour on Monday as organisers waited for the gusts to subside.

When the competition finally got underway, a number of athletes hit the deck before Anderson, Blouin -- who sported a black eye -- and Rukajarvi filled the podium.

It came a day after 17-year-old Coady, the youngest member of the Australian team in South Korea, pulled out after wrecking her left knee in training.

Coady ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), ending her first taste of an Olympics and leaving her facing several months on the sidelines.

The young Australian blamed the wind for the crash, writing on Instagram: "Well Olympics came to a screeching halt today for me... got picked up in the wind on the bottom jump in practice and my ACL was not a big fan!"



Ormerod was ruled out after breaking her heel in training -- after earlier fracturing her wrist on the Pyeongchang course.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Mumbai-based Auxilo Finserve Pvt Ltd, a Non Banking Financial Company, has proposed to grant loan worth Rs 100 crore to support infrastructure development in Tamil Nadu.

To address the growing needs of state's school infrastructure development, including classroom renovation to school uniforms, under one roof, Auxilo has designed need-based customised financial solutions to be disbursed to eligible schools.

It will provide loans to more than 100 schools by next year-end and the proposed ticket-size of loans, secured and unsecured, for schools could go up to Rs 15 crore or minimum at Rs 20 Lakh, the company's Managing Director and CEO Neeraj Saxena said in a release today.

Interestingly, students are opting for high-end subjects including Robotics, Applied science or Artificial Intelligence globally and the company will support all kinds of courses, anywhere in the world, he said.

Stating that Auxilo is prepared to enable loans to deserving students up to 100 per cent and financing, it said it will also provide loans on fees, classroom expenditures, pre-VISA, air-fares and almost everything related to education cost.

Tamil Nadu has accounted for 50 per cent of all incremental education loans between 2013 and 2016 and the Indian education loan industry disbursed nearly Rs 20,000 crore in 2016-17, with a growth of 17 per cent.

"We are in the process of identifying schools and institutes providing basic as well tertiary education to further support them to match up with standardisation," Saxena said adding that the company plans to disburse more than Rs 350 crore nationally for the end 2019 into both segments.

In order to help as many schools and students across India, Auxilo is planning to expand its presence in major metros and Tier-I and II cities, where a large influx of demand is coming up for education enhancement, he said.

Currently, it has presence in Mumbai, Hyderabad and in Chennai.

The next Centres coming up are in Bengaluru, Delhi and Pune, Saxena added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Bank of Baroda (BoB), which is embroiled in controversial banking transactions involving the embattled Gupta family, will no longer operate in South Africa, the country's central bank said today.

"The Bank of Baroda has notified the Office of the Registrar of Banks of its exit from South Africa," the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) said in a statement, amidst the controversy surrounding the Gupats close links with embattled South African President Jacob Zuma.

"The Registrar, which is part of the South African Reserve Bank, is in discussions with the Bank of Baroda to ensure its orderly withdrawal from South Africa so that no depositor is disadvantaged," it said in brief statement.

It added that the SARB would make no further comment on the matter.

There was no immediate comments from the local branch of the BoB.

The BoB opened its first branch here in 2007 after having run an office in the port city of Durban for a decade.

The Indian state-owned bank came under the scanner after it emerged in April 2016 as the only bank willing to do business with the Gupta brothers - Ajay, Atul and Rajesh - who are accused of involvement in alleged state capture through their closeness to President Zuma and his family members.

"Despite the cessation of the provision of services by the major local banks, the group continues to be serviced by a major Asian bank with a presence in South Africa, which bank has requested that the company not communicate their name in this update," Oakbay Resources had confirmed in a statement released via the JSE at the time after all major South African banks closed their accounts.

The Guptas and Duduzane Zuma, the son of President Zuma, resigned as directors of the company shortly before the statement on the bank, in order to ensure that its over 5,000 employees would not be affected by non-payment of salaries.

Ajay and Atul were the co-chairs of Oakbay Investments, while Atul was the chair of Oakbay Resources and Energy.

When it came to light that the initially unnamed bank was the BoB, its decision was queried by regulators and political leaders.

The BoB issued a statement on its website to explain why it could not divulge details of the transactions involving the Gupta family.

"The client relationship which is subject matter of the media reports is sub-judice and the Bank is also bound by client confidentiality. It is also the policy of the Bank to not comment on speculative reports.

"The Bank, having due regard for all lawful requirements, remains committed to cooperate with the regulators for all enquiries in this connection," it said in the statement at the time.

The Gupta family has been under pressure for the past few years for allegedly being very close to President Zuma and benefiting unduly from the government contracts through its companies in areas as diverse as mining and media.

The Guptas first settled in South Africa two decades ago from their Saharanpur ancestral home to cash in on the opportunities offered by the new democratic South Africa under Nelson Mandela.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today said RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's comments on the Indian Army were in "poor taste" and demanded that he apologise to the country.

In an RSS workers meet in Bihar yesterday, Bhagwat had said that the Sangh would "prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months."



This also exposes the RSS's "hidden agenda to float parallel militias to wreak havoc, crush national unity", he said in a Facebook post.

"RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's comments on the Indian Army are in poor taste, against constitutional propriety, confirms our worst fears about the Sangh that it has no respect for India's institutions," the chief minister said.

"RSS wants to turn India into Mussolini's Italy and Hitler's Germany. Parallel army he is talking about is what we have always warned against: Hindu Terror. Running down the army amounts to treason," he said.

The RSS chief must apologise to the people of India for this "treacherous" remark, the chief minister said.

Vijayan also demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi clarify his government's position over Bhagwat "belittling" the Indian Army.

The RSS chief had also said, "This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits (to do so)."



The RSS has, however, clarified that its chief's speech has been misrepresented.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Demanding an apology from RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, the Congress today accused him of "insulting" the Army and asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify whether he approved the idea of a "private militia" guarding India's frontiers.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi charged Bhagwat with "disrespecting" the Army and those who laid down their lives for the country, saying his remarks insulted every Indian.

"The RSS chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS," he tweeted.

Though the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh today said Bhagwat's remarks had been "misinterpreted", Congress senior spokesperson Anand Sharma called the RSS chief's comments "sad and disturbing" and held that nations which had allowed "private militias" and military outfits independent of the country's armed forces had come to grief.

He cited the examples of Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Somalia and the Congo, and said India could not allow such a development.

"The prime minister must clarify his stand on private militias," he said.

Sharma added that the RSS chief's statement insulted the Indian armed forces "by claiming that in the eventuality of a battle to be fought, the RSS can mobilise itself in three days while the Indian Army will take six to seven months".

He said such sentiments weakened the morale of the Army.

"The RSS chief should apologise to the country and the armed forces as he has put a question mark on the capability and bravery of the Indian Army," Sharma said.

The Congress's onslaught came despite the RSS holding that Bhagwat's remarks had been misinterpreted.

The RSS quoted him as saying, "If the situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian Army would take six months to prepare society whereas Sangh swayamsevaks can be trained in three days, as swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly".

Sharma urged Modi to clarify his stand on the remarks.

"The prime minister will have to clarify his position on this, on whether he is thinking of allowing the work of national security to be handed over to the RSS instead of the Indian Army," he said.

Sharma added that the Congress and its workers were opposing such beliefs across the country.

"We expect this mistake to be rectified as it is not in national interest and we take this very seriously as the entire country is disturbed," he said.

"We as a democracy cannot allow any organisation and institution to be given any space when it comes to national defence," Sharma said.

It was "sad, disturbing and shocking" that the RSS chief's comments came when the Army was grappling with a serious terror attack, he added.

"It disrespects the Constitutional framework. It is an insult to the tricolour," he said.

Congress Communications in-charge Randeep Surjewala said the RSS had insulted the valour of the Army and all Indians rejected their "DNA of division".

"Let all Indians remember - they vilified Gandhi, they slandered Nehru, they slammed Patel, they attacked Ambedkar," he tweeted.

The RSS did not allow women into their shakhas, he said.

"They didnt fly the tricolour for 52 years... Now, Sangh insults Armys valour. We Indians reject your DNA of division," he said.

RSS chief spokesperson Manmohan Vaidya had said Bhagwat's speech in Muzaffarpur in Bihar had been "misrepresented".

"Bhagwat ji had said that if the situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian Army would take 6 months to prepare society whereas Sangh swayamsevaks can be trained in 3 days, as swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly," he said.

"This was (in) no way a comparison between the Indian army and the Sangh swayamsevaks but it was a comparison between general society and swayamsevaks," he said in a statement.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress today demanded that RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat apologise to the country for his remarks on the armed forces and asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify whether he approves of a "private militia" to guard the nation's frontiers.

Congress senior spokesperson Anand Sharma termed Bhagat's statement as "sad and disturbing" and said nations which have allowed private militias and military outfits independent of the country's armed forces to fight for it have come to grief and have paid a heavy price.

He cited examples of Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Somalia and Congo, and said India cannot allow such a development.

"The RSS chief's statement is a direct insult to the Indian armed forces by claiming that in the eventuality of a battle to be fought, the RSS can mobilise itself in three days while the Indian Army will take six to seven months," Sharma said.

"The RSS chief should apologise to the country and the armed forces, as he has put a question mark on the capability and bravery of the Indian Army. Such statements and thoughts weaken the morale of our armed forces," he said.

The Congress attacked the RSS chief even as the Sangh clarified that Bhagwat had said that "if situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian Army would take six months to prepare the society whereas Sangh swayamsevaks can be trained in three days, as swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly".

Sharna said, "The prime minister of India will have to clarify his position on this, on whether he is thinking of allowing the work of national security to be handed over to the RSS other than the Indian Army."



He said the Congress and its workers are opposing this across the country.

"We expect that this mistake be rectified as it is not in national interest and we take this very seriously as the entire country is disturbed," the Congress leader said.

"Nothing could be more insulting. We as a democracy cannot allow any organisation and institution to be given any space when it comes to national defence," he said.

"It is said, disturbing and shocking that while Indian Army is grappling with a serious terror attack, RSS chief made a statement which is deeply disturbing. It disrespects the Constitutional framework, it is an insult to the tricolour to protect which the Indian armed fight carrying it," he said.

Sharma said the RSS has throughout claimed to be a social and cultural organisation.

It was the undertaking given by the Sangh to the then Home Minister of India Vallabhbhai Patel, who was also the deputy prime minister, for the lifting of the ban on it after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, he said.

That position remains unchanged, he said, adding "though the fact is that the RSS is the parent and mother organisation and the controlling ideology of the ruling BJP, which is a political front of the RSS".

Facing critcism, the RSS has claimed that Bhawat's remarks were "misrepresented".

"Bhagwat had said that if situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian Army would take six months to prepare the society whereas Sangh swayamsevaks can be trained in three days, as swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly," RSS Akhil Bhartiya Prachaar Pramukh Manmohan Vaidya said in a statement.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congress president Rahul Gandhi today accused BJP of creating friction between communities and 'igniting" fire, as he ramped up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his campaign in poll-bound Karnataka.

"Wherever there is a BJP government like the ones in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, violence prevails," he alleged at a public rally here on the third day of his first leg of campaign in north Karnataka.

He said, "at some places, they kill Dalits, minorities and tribals. They pit one section of society against another and ignite fire. In Haryana they pitted Jat against non-Jat. And they come here and talk about violence," he said.

"Peace prevails here Modiji. Go and see what is happening in UP, Haryana, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. There is violence which is being spread. So don't talk about violence and corruption when you visit Karnataka. People of Karnataka are intelligent and they know everything," he said.

Gandhi asserted that Congress believed in taking everyone together and moving forward.

The Congress president, who addressed public and roadside meetings in Raichur and Kalaburagi districts, continued his attack on Modi, saying he should speak about allegations of corruption against BJP president Amit Shah's son.

Gandhi,on a four-day 'Janashirvad Yatra', said Modi should look "left and right" before talking of corruption.

"If you want to talk about corruption, talk a bit about Amit Shah son's corruption. How he made Rs 80 crore out of Rs 50,000 in three months. You should also be telling this to the country," he said.

Amit Shah has rejected allegations of corruption against his son Jay Shah, who has filed a criminal defamation suit against the portal which claimed his business fortunes had zoomed after BJP came to power in 2014.

Addressing people who had gathered to welcome him before he continued his campaign in the state's Hyderabad-Karnataka region, Gandhi also lashed out at BJP leaders in the state.

"Modiji you talk of corruption. Modiji, if you have some time after talking of the past, look at your left and right sides...."



"On one side is (B S) Yeddyurappa who has been to jail. On the other side, as many as four (former) ministers who went to jail... and behind, 11 leaders who had to resign on charges of corruption," he said.

Gandhi said Modi had "failed" to create jobs and address farmer distress.

"Modiji, people of this country gave you work, farmers had given you work, youth had told you that our competition is with China. China provides job to 50,000 youths in 24 hours. Modiji has failed," he said.

Travelling in a customised bus along with other leaders from the state, Gandhi was greeted by party workers and people who lined up on both sides of the road at various places.

Speaking to reporters at Shahpur in Yadgir district, Gandhi, who is facing the charge of practising "soft Hindutva", defended his visits to temples and religious places, asserting that he would continue it.

"I like going to temples, wherever I get religiousplace I go there. I feel good and feel happy, and I willcontinue (to go)," he said.

Gandhi was responding to BJP state President B S Yeddyurappa's "Election Hindu" jibe at him.

"I heartily welcome #ElectionHindu @OfficeOfRG to Ballari. The #Congress President will fulfill our dream of a #CongressMuktKarnataka,"Yeddyurappa had said in a tweet,ahead of Gandhi's visit to the state from February 10.

Gandhi's temple run in his election itinerary,which began in the run-up to the Gujarat assembly polls, has invited flak from BJP, which has dubbed it as an election exercise.

Other critics have called it "soft Hindutva."



The Hyderabad-Karnataka region comprises districts of Bidar, Yadgir, Raichur, Koppal, Ballari and Kalaburagi which were part of the Nizam-ruled Hyderabad state till 1948.

Gandhi will wind up his tour tomorrow, interacting with professionals and business community and a visit to "Anubhava Mantapa' at Basavakalyan in Bidar,akin to Parliament, started by 12th century social reformer Basavanna.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Days after Kerala emerged as the top state as per the health index report prepared by the NITI Aayog, state Finance Minister Thomas Isaac today hit out at the BJP for its "false campaign" against the state, saying the leaders of the saffron party should be made to do 101 sit-ups as punishment.

As per the report, while the LDF-ruled Kerala was at the top of the list, BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh was at the bottom among the larger states.

The BJP had unleashed a false propaganda in October last against the CPI(M)-led LDF government in Kerala and the state BJP leaders had also joined in to "humiliate" the southern state for political gains, which was "shameful", Isaac said in a Facebook post.

BJP leaders should be made to do 101 sit-ups as punishment for their "collective false propaganda against Kerala state to defame it", he said.

The health index report was a befitting reply to the "smear" campaign, the minister added.

Four months ago, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said during his party's "Jana Raksha Yatra" in Kannur that Kerala should take lessons from his state in the health sector.

Isaac pointed out that in Uttar Pradesh's Gorakhpur, several children had died allegedly due to the lack of oxygen supply in a state-run hospital and claimed that Uttar Pradesh accounted for the maximum cases of infant deaths in the country.

The report also saw the LDF and the opposition, the Congress-led UDF, sparring and laying claims for the achievement.

State Health minister K K Shylaja said the report was a recognition of the achievements and steps taken in the health sector after the LDF government came to power in Kerala.

On the other hand, Opposition Leader Ramesh Chennithala said during 2015-16,it was the UDF government headed by Oommen Chandy which was in power and that the achievements of that regime were recognised by the Niti Aayog.

He had also alleged that the LDF government was a "total failure" as far as the health sector was concerned.

According to the health index report, Kerala topped among the larger states on the overall health performance, followed by Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat.

Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar and Odisha were among the states that performed poorly in the health index.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The BJP today said it will add Meghalaya, Tripura, Karnataka and Nagaland to the list of states where the party is in power.

From nine states in 2009, the saffron party has now formed government in 19 states, senior BJP leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy told journalists here.

"We are going to add more states to that list it will start from Meghalaya, Tripura, Karnataka and Nagaland," Rudy said.

Meghalaya is set to go to polls on February 27 and the results will be announced on March 3.

The BJP has fielded candidates in 47 of the 60 seats in Meghalaya, while its ally at the Centre, the National Peoples' Party (NPP), is contesting alone in 53 seats.

Rudy expressed confidence that the saffron party will get a majority in the coming elections.

"We don't believe in fractured mandate. Do not get surprised by my confidence, I have been handling elections for last 30 years. We are confident of forming government in Meghalaya," he said.

The former Union minister also promised "the best of infrastructure" in the state, once its party comes to power.

"When it (BJP) forms the government, it will take all stakeholders on board and seek a consensus to find an outright solution (to the various contentious issues in the state)," he said.

Taking a dig at the ruling Congress, Rudy said he was "shocked" to see the party deviating from its agenda of development and trying to play the "secularism card" to garner votes.

"They (Congress) did not have a vote bank, they created one by splitting the society and they want to play that trick in Meghalaya" he said.

The BJP has always been "sensitive" towards the needs of the people in different parts of the North East, BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli said.

"In fact we have always raised questions over the change in demographic profile of states like Assam and Tripura, where the influx of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh is on the rise," he noted.

The BJP will do everything to protect the identity of indigenous tribes in the North East, Kohli added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Council today saw uproar and protests by BJP members who demanded slapping of an FIR and suspension of senior NC lawmaker Mohammad Akbar Lone for raising a pro-Pakistan slogan in the state Assembly.

BJP members later staged a walkout from the House.

As Legislative Council met for the day, BJP members raised the issue and demanded an apology from the NC leader.

BJP MLCs Surinder Ambardar and Vikram Randawa said it was not a minor issue and demanded a statement from the National Conference asking it to clear its stand on the action against its member.

They also demanded an FIR under sedition charges against the member who was present in the house and stayed silent.

The BJP members said that Lone had taking oath in the name of Indian Constitution and had raised pro-Pak slogans.

"BJP demands an apology from the NC MLA and an FIR should be registered against him. He should be suspended for sedition," Ambardar said.

NC members countered the BJP saying that Lone's remarks had been expunged and the party had disassociated from the slogan.

Legislative Council Chairman Anayat Ali said "we cannot do anything in this as he is a member of the Lower House andnot a member of this House".

On this, the BJP members carrying banners walked into the Well of the House and then staged a walkout.

Talking to reporters outside, Ambardar said it was unbecoming of a lawmaker to raise pro-Pak slogans when he has taken oath under the Constitution of India.

"NC leadership, Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, should clarify their stand and remove the member from the party for raising pro-Pak slogans in Assembly. By this act National Conference has again assumed its old title of Muslim Conference," Ambardar said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Several thousand supporters of the jailed Bangladeshi ex-premier Khaleda Zia today staged human chain protests across the country to demand the party chief's release following her five-year imprisonment in a graft case.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) supporters in the capital Dhaka and other major cities protested the February 8 court verdict which sentenced the 72-year-old Zia for embezzling 21 million takas (USD 252,000) in foreign donations meant for the Zia Orphanage Trust.

In the same case, her son Tarique Rahman and four others were sentenced to 10 years in jail.

The BNP's protest came as police allegedly detained hundreds of opposition supporters in the last one week.

Some senior party leaders, including Shamsuzzaman Dudu, were detained while attempting to join the protest today.

Legal experts say Zia's imprisonment would disqualify her from contesting the next general elections slated for December this year unless the Supreme Court comes up with a different direction during the appeal process.

BNP boycotted the general election in 2014, but Zia appears to be seeking to contest the next polls.

"She has gone to jail on court orders and we want BNP to secure her freedom through legal process so everyone could take part in the polls," ruling Awami League spokesman and health minister Mohammad Nasim said.

"It depends on the legal process and the court, let's see what happens," Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal told reporters when asked if Zia's imprisonment would be long.

Kamal added that the two other graft cases and several criminal charges for instigating deadly violence were pending against her.

"If she is arrested in other pending cases, we will have to launch a parallel process to secure her bail separately for every charge which may take time," a lawyer told PTI preferring anonymity.

The ex-premier on November 30, 2014 lost her last ditch effort to evade the graft trial as the Supreme Court turned down her second "leave to appeal" petition challenging her indictment and asked her to face trial in the lower court.

The high court earlier validated the trial in the lower court which on March 19, 2014 had indicted Zia on two graft charges brought by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

The ACC alleged that the two charities, the other being the Zia Charitable Trust, existed only on paper and a huge amount of money was misappropriated in the name of the two organisations while Zia was premier during the BNP's 2001-2006 government.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A BSF commandant, arrested on charges of corruption by the CBI, was today remanded to judicial custody by a Fast Track Court here.

Jibu D Mathew was produced here before a Fast Track Court in charge of CBI and remanded to judicial custody till February 26, sources said.

He was arrested at Alappuzha railway station a few days ago with Rs 47 lakh in cash when he alighted from Shalimar Express, on his way to his home town Pathanamthitta.

The CBI's charge was that Mathew had accepted bribe from smugglers from Bangaladesh for favours received by them.

Mathew is a Commandant of BSFs 83rd battalion, deployed on the Indo-Bangla border in West Bengal.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bulk LPG transport tankers have stopped supplying liquefied petroleum gas to bottling plants from today in the eastern and southern regions, as they began a strike to protest against new rules on tenders.

Indian Oil Corporation, an LPG major in the east, said the impact could be "partial" if the strike continues, though talks are on with protesters to sort out differences.

"We have started observing strike from today in the eastern and southern region. North and Western regions are also likely to join soon," the Bulk LPG Transport Contractors Association (Eastern India) executive committee member, Bhupinder Gujral told PTI.

"If all four regions begin strike, then 22,000 LPG tankers will get off the roads. In the eastern region, 4,000 tankers ply to feed 32-33 bottling plants," he said.

Gujral said stocks with the bottling plants vary between two and four days.

The strike call was in the wake of new tender rules for the LPG tank trucks by the OMCs, and the protesters demanded preference clause for trucks' registration be removed from new tenders.

"The major concern is earlier the tender was floated zone-wise. The eastern zone comprised West Bengal, Orissa, Bihar and Jharkhand. But now, they have floated it state-wise and stated 'preference' will be given to tankers registered in the specific state. This is not acceptable to us," Gujral said.

Oil marketing companies (OMCs) have not called any meeting with the association so far, he said.

Indian Oil Corporation spokesperson (eastern region) Alok Kumar Singh said even if the strike continues for long, the impact will be limited as it has JVs for several pipeline-fed LPG bottling plants in Haldia, Barauni, Balasore and Jhasugoda.

Almost 95 per cent of the eastern region tankers are registered in Nagaland.

"We will ramp up bottling in these plants to meet the demand," Singh said.

There are total of 13 bottling plant in the eastern region for three OMCs.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)There is tremendous potential to expand trade cooperation with India and create new opportunities for farmers, a senior minister from Canada said today.

Oneil Carlier, Agriculture and Forestry Minister of Alberta, Canada, said India is one of the world's largest and most diverse markets and one where he believes there is tremendous growth potential for Alberta's "high-quality food and agricultural products".

"Canada is one of the largest agricultural producers and exporters in the world. Quite a lot of barley is grown in Alberta. There are 1,700 barley producers growing 2.4 ton per year," Carlier said, speaking at the 6th 'Agro Protech 2018', organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce here.

Alberta can provide expertise in food processing technology, biotechnology, energy efficiency, food packaging, and food safety practices, he said.

West Bengal Law and Labour Minister Moloy Ghatak, who was also present on the occasion, said the state had taken up agriculture as a priority sector, and provides all necessary support to increase farmers' income through better market and value addition to their produce.

"For decades, farmers in Bengal have had little or no say in choosing markets or buyers for selling their produce," he said.

The Mamata Banerjee government has introduced various schemes like the kisan credit card and kisan bazar to help farmers with financial support against low interest.

"More bank branches will be opened in the rural areas to provide long-term low interest loans to the farmers," West Bengal Cooperation Minister Arup Roy said.

Prof Swapan Dutta, Agricultural Scientist and former Pro Vice Chancellor, Viswa Bharati University, said that production of crops in India is being challenged by increasing population, lack of land for cultivation, volatile prices, environmental concerns and rising expectations from consumers.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Ice dance stars Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir inspired Canada to the figure skating team title to secure the Winter Games heavyweights' first gold at Pyeongchang 2018 today.

The Russians, with their teenage ice starlets Evgenia Medvedeva and Alina Zagitova, took their first silver of the Games. The USA team was third.

The Canadian team, also featuring dual 2014 silver medallist Patrick Chan, fulfilled their promise as favourites to beat Olympic Athletes from Russia, after comming second to Russia four years ago in Sochi.

They took command on Friday, despite Chan tumbling in his men's short programme.

Competing in their third Olympics, Virtue and Moir earned a maximum 10 points for their short programme, and matched that in the concluding free with an exhilarating four-and-a- half minute performance to the music of Moulin Rouge.

Canada finished on 73 points, with OAR on 66 and the USA a further four points behind.

Italy came in fourth with Japan last of the five that went through to the final five segments of the competition which was held over three days.

While Japan had to make do without defending men's Olympic champion Yuzuru Hanyu, Canada went into battle with all their stars present.

And they didn't let them down at the Gangneung Ice Arena.

For defending champions Russia, competing in South Korea as OAR after Russia's state-sponsored doping ban, it was always going to be a struggle to recover from Mikhail Kolyada's flop in the men's short programme.

But they gave it a great shot, with their teenaged starlets Evgenia Medvedeva and Alina Zagitova dominant in both ladies' sections.

Medvedeva conjured up a world record score in Sunday's short programme, with Zagitova producing a personal best in her free dance to Don Quixote.

The pair are heading for a mouthwatering showdown for the women's title next week.

As for the men, US quad boy wonder Nathan Chen, rated one of the Japanese skating icon's main dangers, will be working overtime in training after making mistakes in his short routine.

Hanyu sat out the team competition as he gave his body every chance of being at its best for the defence of his crown after ankle ligament damage threatened to scuttle his Olympic dream last November.

He is due to train for the first time since arriving in Pyeongchang later today.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, arriving in India later this week, will deliver a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA).

Trudeau is scheduled to visit the IIMA on February 19 and address its students, the leading business school said in a statement here today.

"The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) will have the pleasure of hosting the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, for a lecture on Monday, February 19," said the statement.

This is for the first time that the Prime Minister of a foreign country will be visiting the IIMA, the institute said.

The 46-year-old Canadian leader will be in India from February 17-23 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Reliance Infrastructure (RInfra) on Monday said the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved sale of its integrated Mumbai power business to Adani Transmission in a Rs 188 billion deal.

RInfra and Adani Transmission had signed a definitive binding agreement for 100 per cent stake sale of the integrated business of generation, transmission and distribution of power for Mumbai in December 2017, RInfra said in a statement.

According to the statement, total consideration value is estimated at Rs 188 billion. The transaction is expected to be completed by March 2018.

RInfra will utilise the proceeds of this transformative transaction entirely to reduce its debt. This is the largest ever debt reducing exercise by any corporate.

This monetisation is a major step in RInfras deleveraging strategy for future growth.

Reliance Infrastructures Mumbai power business (known as Reliance Energy) is Indias largest private sector integrated power utility distributing electricity to nearly 3 million residential, industrial and commercial consumers in the suburbs of Mumbai, covering an area of 400 sq km, it said.

It caters to a peak demand of over 1,800 MW, with annual revenues of Rs 75 billion with stable cash flows.

RInfra will focus on upcoming opportunities in asset light EPC (engineering procurement and construction) and defence businesses, it added.

(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.)The Delhi High Court today termed as an "abuse" the competition regulator CCI's decision to investigate United Kingdom-based Vodafone Group plc, the parent company of Vodafone India, for default in providing inter-connection to Reliance Jio (RJio).

"This is an actual abuse and we have no compunction in stating so," the high court said while issuing notice to CCI and Reliance Jio seeking their replies on Vodafone Group's plea challenging the fair trade regulator's order.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru also sought the stand of Bharti Airtel, Idea Cellular and Vodafone India, all three of whom have been accused by RJio of not providing it inter-connect facility, and listed the matter for hearing on April 23.

The UK-based parent company of Vodafone India has moved the high court against the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) September 12, 2017 decision to reject its plea that it be deleted as a party from the proceedings initiated on a complaint by RJio.

The foreign entity has claimed that the high court had on July 14 last year directed the CCI to examine its plea for discharge from the proceedings and pass a "speaking order", but regulator did not do so.

The high court agreed with Vodafone Group's claim that "no speaking order" was passed by the CCI, and questioned how a holding company was responsible for inter-connection default.

"This is an actual abuse and it must stop. If the CCI is not applying its mind, despite clear directions by this court, then we will comment on it," the court said.

Vodafone has also challenged CCI's April 21 order of last year directing an investigation into the foreign entity also, along with the other telecom majors operating here, on RJio's complaint.

RJio, meanwhile, told the high court that the April 21, 2017 order of CCI has been set aside by the Bombay High Court, and the regulator, in January this year, has moved an appeal in the Supreme Court where it is pending.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Telangana Congress president N Uttam Kumar Reddy today slammed the Central and the state governments over "erratic" implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee (MGNREGA) scheme.

Addressing an event here, Reddy said, as a senior MLA, he has observed and compared the conditions that prevailed in rural areas before and after the implementation of the NREGS (National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme), a party release said.

He said NREGS was a "revolutionary scheme" which improved lives of crores people in thousands of villages in the country and provided the right to work to the poorest of poor citizens in rural areas.

"However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has been trying to dilute the scheme and by delaying payments to the MGNREGS workers, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao's government was killing the actual purpose of its inception," Reddy alleged.

He alleged the TRS government has not cleared the payments of MGNREGA workers for the last several months.

"The TRS government has been violating the provisions of the NREG Act without even considering its negative impact on rural poor. As against the law for clearing the payments within 15 days, MGNREGS workers have been denied payments since the last four months," he claimed.

Reddy said the issues concerning NREGS workers would be raised in the Telangana Assembly and Council by the Congress legislators.

Earlier today, AICC incharge of Telangana R C Khuntia said that the BJP government at the Centre has been trying to curb the activities and rights of trade unions to promote a select few companies.

Stating that there was an urgent need to mobilise the workers in unorganised sectors, he said besides NREGS workers, people serving as Anganwadi workers, non-formal teachers, Health Mission workers, Beedi workers, etc.need to be mobilised.

Khuntia said the previous UPA government had made several laws like Vendors Act, 2014, to protect the rights of workers in unorganised sector.

He said there were several laws like Building Workers Act, 1995, in existence that could benefit crores of workers in unorganised sectors if implemented properly.

The Congress leader also stressed the need to resolve the problems being faced by migrant workers, the release added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Avantha Group Company, CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd (CG) consolidated net loss widened to Rs 28.23 crore in the quarter ended December 2017.

The company's consolidated net loss was Rs 25.11 crore in the quarter ended December 2016, the CG stated in a BSE filing today.

According to the statement, its total consolidated income was Rs 1,517.06 crore in the quarter compared to Rs 1418.71 crore a year-ago.

The company's consolidated net loss in the April-December period was Rs 584.08 crore compared to Rs 46.63 crore loss year ago.

The total consolidated income of the company during the nine month period was Rs 4,534.51 crore compared to Rs 4,340.28 crore a year-ago.

In a separate filing, it stated that its subsidiaries have executed a deal for sale of assets and share of its businesses in Hungary for an enterprise value of 38 million euro.

The business for sale in question excludes the switchgear business in its step down subsidiary CG Electric Systems Hungary Zrt.

The buyers are Ganz Villamossagi Zrt. and Alester Holdings Limited. The sale is part of its divestment plan to reduce debt and to focus on core operations and core market in India which provides sufficient growth opportunities.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congress led UDF Opposition in Kerala today condemned the alleged attack on RMP workers by ruling CPI-M activists in Kozhikode district.

Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Ramesh Chennithala alleged that the attack took place in the presence of police.

"CPI-M cadres are creating an atmosphere of terror in Onchiyam and Orkkatteri area," Chennithala said.

He also claimed that the police have arrested RMP workers including its leader N Venu and were detained in the police station.

Meanwhile, the secretariat of the Revolutionary Marxist party (RMP), a party formed by the late T P Chandrasekharan after he left CPI-M in 2009, blamed the ruling CPI-M for the attack and sought the intervention of all democratic-minded people in the society in the matter.

Chandrasekharan was hacked to death by some assailants, allegedly with CPI (M) support, on 4 May 2012.

After Chandrasekharan's death, his widow K K Rema took charge of the party.

In a statement, Rema said the CPI-M had "unleashed violence" against RMP cadres in the area for the past few days.

She also alleged that the attacks against the party offices and houses of RMP cadres was continuing in the area during night time.

"The CPI-M is creating a situation of fear that existed when T P Chandrasekharan was killed," she added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China is coercing its neighbours to reorder the Indo-Pacific region, the Pentagon told Congress in its annual budget proposals for the fiscal 2019, beginning October 1 this year.

Trump administration on Monday released their proposal for the fiscal year 2019 budget. Fiscal years are different from calendar years. The budgetary proposal covers October 1, 2018, through September 30, 2019.

"China is leveraging military modernisation, influence operations and predatory economics to coerce neighbouring countries to reorder the Indo-Pacific region to their advantage," the Pentagon said in its annual defence budget for the fiscal 2019.

As China continues its economic and military ascendance, asserting power through an all-of-nation long-term strategy, it will continue to pursue a military modernisation programme that seeks Indo-Pacific regional hegemony in the near-term and displacement of the US to achieve global preeminence in the future, it said.

The most far-reaching objective of this defence strategy is to set the military relationship between the US and China on a path of transparency and non-aggression, it said.

According to the Pentagon, the central challenge to the US prosperity and security is the reemergence of long term, strategic competition by what the National Security Strategy classifies as revisionist powers.

"It is increasingly clear that China and Russia want to shape a world consistent with their authoritarian model gaining veto authority over other nations' economic, diplomatic and security decisions," it said.

The Pentagon said Russia seeks veto authority over nations on its periphery in terms of its governmental, economic and diplomatic decisions to shatter the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and to change European and Middle East security and economic structures to its favour.

The use of emerging technologies to discredit and subvert democratic processes in Georgia, Crimea and eastern Ukraine is concern enough, but when coupled with its expanding and modernising nuclear arsenal the challenge is clear.

"Rogue regimes such as North Korea and Iran are destabilising their regions by pursuing nuclear weapons or sponsoring terrorism," the Pentagon said.

North Korea seeks to guarantee regime survival and increased leverage through a mixture of nuclear, biological, chemical, conventional and unconventional weapons and a growing ballistic missile capability to gain coercive influence over South Korea, Japan and the US.

In the Middle East, Iran is competing with its neighbours, asserting an arc of influence and instability while vying for regional hegemony, using state-sponsored terrorist activities, a growing network of proxies and its missile programme to achieve its objectives, the Pentagon said.

According to the budgetary proposals, competitor states, especially China and Russia have narrowed Department of Defence's military technological advantages, demanding the US find new and innovative ways to fight in the future.

"China is now a strategic competitor, using predatory economics to intimidate its neighbours while militarising features in the South China Sea. Russia has violated the borders of nearby nations, and pursues veto power over the economic, diplomatic and security decisions of its neighbours," it said.

Concurrently, North Korea's actions and rhetoric continue despite the United Nation's censure and sanctions.

Iran continues to sow violence and remains the most significant challenge to the Middle East stability.

Despite the defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria's (ISIS) physical caliphate, threats to stability remain as terrorist groups with long reach continue to murder innocent people and threaten peace, the Pentagon added.China today congratulated Nepal for holding "smooth and successful" elections, as the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) leader K P Sharma Oli, widely regarded as pro-Beijing, is expected to form the new government soon.

Nepal concluded three phase of provincial, local and parliamentary elections as part of its efforts to implement the new Constitution that was promulgated in September 2015.

Nepal's Left alliance -- that won the majority seats in parliamentary polls -- is preparing to form the new government which is tipped to be headed by Oli.

The new government, the first under the new constitution, is expected to be formed as the Election Commission of Nepal has submitted the list of elected members to President Bidya Devi Bhandari.

"China congratulates Nepal for smoothly and successfully holding elections," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a media briefing here, commenting for the first time on Nepal election results.

"We respect the choice made by the people of Nepal and we hope they could build on such cooperation and solidarity and get along with their work on forming government new government to ensure stability and economic development," he said.

Expectations are high in China from Oli, who signed the Transit Treaty with Beijing to end dependence on India for his landlocked country to reset Kathmandu-Beijing ties and over turned the outgoing government's decision to scrap the USD 2.5 billion deal with China's Gezhouba Group to build Budhi Gandaki Hydro Electric Project.

China has been investing heavily in Nepal, blunting India's influence in the Himalayan country.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China continues to differ with Nepal over the height of Mount Everest and sticks to its own calculation of the world's highest peak which is four meters less than the Kathmandu's measurement, a media report said today.

China's response came after reports said that Beijing had agreed to accept Nepal's measurement of the mountain, which is almost four meters taller.

The Chinese official media has contradicted the recent 'The New York Times' report that China had recognised the mountain's height as 8,848 meters, quoting Ang Tshering Sherpa, the former head of the Nepal Mountaineering Association.

China has not changed its measurement of the height of Mount Qomolangma, the Chinese name of the Mt Everest, which stands at 8844.43 meters, state-run Global Times reported.

China recognises Mount Qomolangma as the world's tallest, measuring 8,844.43 meters above sea level, the National Administration of Surveying, Mapping and Geo-information (NASG) told the state-run Xinhua Agency.

The peak of Mt Everest played a significant role in the settlement of boundary between Nepal and China, which earlier claimed the whole mountain as part of its territory after it took control of Tibet.

But it was finally settled in 1961 after the intervention of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) founder Mao Zedong, who suggested that the boundary line should pass through the summit of the Mt Everest, which was agreed by Nepal.

More and more international climbers are reportedly using the Tibetan side of the Mt Everest as China has improved facilities compared to Nepal.

In 2005, the NASG measured Mt Everest's rock base at 8844.43 meters above sea level. The depth of the snow on the mountain top was measured at 3.5 meters.

The NASG said that China had never in any form said it has changed the 2005 result, which has been authorised by the central cabinet and released to the public in accordance with relevant regulations.

According to the NASG, the standard height of the mountain is important data for China and international research on mapping, geosciences, and climate change and it also showcases comprehensive national strength.

"Each country's surveyors have the intention of making others recognise their own measurements and their own outcome. But the different heights come from different measurement methods," Zhao Kangning, former deputy director of China's National Administration of Global Navigation Satellite Systems and Applications, told the Global Times.

"The different measurements of Mount Qomolangma's height between China and Nepal is a competition over the mountain," Xu Jianying, a research fellow of Research Centre for Chinese Borderland History and Geography at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) said.

However, Li Guoqiang, another expert at CASS, said that "the dispute over the height of Mt Qomolangma should not be politicised".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China's induction of the latest J-20 stealth bomber, the first in the region, into its air force fleet will enhance the country's "new war capacities" and break the US and Japan's monopoly in Asia-Pacific region, according to the state media.

The introduction of stealth fighter has made waves as China is the first in the region to have the stealth bomber.

Its introduction is very significant for India as the Indian Air Force is yet to acquire a stealth fighter, leaving a major gap in the strategic forces levels, specially in the high-altitude Tibet region, military observers said.

China's latest J-20 stealth fighters have been commissioned into air force combat service, Shen Jinke, spokesman for the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force said last week.

The introduction "marks an important step for the J-20 to have comprehensive combat capabilities," Shen said.

"The J-20 played a vital role in the air force's Red Sword 2017 exercise and laid a foundation for the enhancement of its new war capacities," state-run Xinhua news agency had quoted him as saying.

"The stealth jets will improve the air force's comprehensive fighting ability and enable it to better safeguard China's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity," Shen said.

Since the fighters have been commissioned into the combat units, the air force has made steady progress in the training of pilots, Shen said.

Only the US has a range of stealth fighters in its air force fleet.

The J-20 is China's fourth-generation medium and long- range fighter jet. It made its maiden flight in 2011 and was first shown to the public at the 11th Air show China in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, in November 2016.

"Once a new type weapon or equipment is delivered to the military, it will be tested by troops specialising in testing, and the troops will inform the relevant department if adjustments are needed. Normally this process takes 1-2 years," Song Zongping, a military expert and TV commentator told the state-run Global Times.

"After this process, the new weapon will be formally armed by combat troops, which means it will be used in actual combat, and the J-20 will engage with rivals in the future who dare to provoke China in the air," the report quoted Song as saying.

Shen said the People's Liberation Army Air Force was becoming a modern strategic unit capable of combat in all territories, asserting that it will become a significant force in shaping the situation, to manage and control crises, to deter war and to win the war.

"The J-20 will also change the history of the air force in Asia-Pacific region. In the past, only the US and its allies like Japan were capable of arming stealth fighter jets. But now, their monopoly in this region has been broken by China's J-20," Song said.Police in Tibet have warned people about "criminal gangs" connected to exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama "to confuse and incite" them against the ruling Communist Party of China, official media reported today.

The public security bureau in Tibet has released details on how the public can provide tips on activities of "criminal gangs" connected to the "separatist forces of the Dalai Lama", the state-run Global Times reported.

An official circular "warned" local people to be on the lookout for "evil forces" of the Dalai Lama that might use temples and religious control "to confuse and incite" people against the party and the government, the report said.

The bureau is asking people to report activities of "foreign hostile forces" that may seek financial support for the 82-year-old Dalai Lama.

The circular listed 22 illegal activities the bureau wants people to report, three of which directly mentioned the Dalai group.

"The Dalai Lama has been in exile for decades but still holds ambition to split China's Tibet from the Chinese territory," the report said.

"The Dalai group always interferes in national affairs by controlling temples, including lamas and living Buddhas, and by spreading a kind of 'middle way' to the world, which actually advocates separatism and emphasises the separation of sovereignty and governing rights," Wang Xiaobin, a scholar at the Beijing-based China Tibetology Research Centre told the daily.

The Dalai Lama fled Tibet in 1959 after a failed uprising against the Chinese rule in his Himalayan homeland. He has been living in India in exile ever since.

China routinely protests world leaders meeting the Dalai Lama. It also makes it mandatory for all foreign governments to recognise Tibet as part of China to have diplomatic relations with Beijing.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former president Pranab Mukherjee today said of the total population in the country, 2.21 per cent people suffer from disabilities and their condition has been "less than satisfactory", despite several laws being implemented.

At the inauguration of a seminar on 'Rights of Persons With Disabilities: Contemporary Developments' at the Delhi University, he appealed to the people to consider those with disabilities as equals.

"The government, whose primary responsibility is to ensure respect for them, has spent lakhs of rupees and implemented various policies and schemes for their empowerment," Mukherjee said.

"Despite all that, their situation has been less than satisfactory," he said and rued that discrimination, segregation and marginalisation has become common.

"The answer is not only strict enforcement of existing laws, but also simultaneous exposure and education of the people towards disability and how to deal with it with compassion and affection," the former president said.

He also appealed to all participants of the seminar to dwell on all these aspects and, form opinions and ideas for the betterment of the people with disabilities.

From 1995 to 2016, there has been a paradigm shift in respect of laws pertaining to the disabled, Mukherjee said.

Vice Chancellor Yogesh K Tyagi was also present at the seminar.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Election Commission today slapped a notice to Congress candidate from South Tura constituency for holding an election meeting without prior permission and using "hate speech".

The action has been initiated on the basis of complaint registered by the National Peoples Party (NPP).

Chief electoral officer F R Kharkongor confirmed issuance of notice and said deputy commissioner of the district has been asked to investigate into the matter.

Meghalaya will go to poll for all 60 seats on February 27 this month.

According to the NPP complaint, the Congress nominee Grithalson Arengh and his supporters held a meeting at New Walbakgre on February 9 where he allegedly used inflammatory words against both the NPP and the BJP.

The complaint alleged that the Congress candidate in his speech had stated that "if the NPP and the BJP are voted to power, Christianity would be eliminated from the state of Meghalaya".

Arengh has been asked to reply to the show cause notice by Tuesday failing which action would be taken as per rules of the Election Commission of India (ECI), the notice said.

The notice also mentioned that the Congress nominee had not sought permission from the Returning Officer (RO) to hold the meeting despite model code already being in force.

"Your intention to hold meeting during such critical time period without seeking permission is construed to be a deliberate attempt on your part to willfully violate the Model Code of conduct and rules," said the show cause.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress today promised development, employment and waiver of farmers' loans in Tripura if voted to power in the state.

Releasing its election manifesto here for the Tripura Assembly elections, AICC general secretary and Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanswamy brushed aside poll promises and claims made by the BJP and the Left.

The Swarnajug or golden age in Tripura, as claimed by the ruling CPI(M), was a "failure", he said, while describing the BJPs promises of acche din as "treachery".

Appealing to the people to vote for the Congress, he said his party would usher in development, peace, employment, healthcare and the unity of Tripura, as well as write off farmers' loans.

The Congress has fielded candidates for 59 out of the 60 seats in Tripura where Assembly elections will be held on February 18.

The results will be out on March 3, along with the poll outcomes in Meghalaya and Nagaland.

Narayanswamy also alleged that the BJP was contesting the election by using "money and muscle power".

To a query on BJP president Amit Shah's allegation that the Congress was helping the CPI(M) by dividing the anti-Left votes, he said it was the other way around.

We can rather bring this charge against them (the BJP) because they were a non-entity in the state even two years ago and could secure barely 1 per cent of the vote. Congress is the only party fighting against the Communists in Tripura, Kerala and rest of the country," he told reporters.

Coming down heavily on the BJP over its manifesto released yesterday, he said the party couldnt implement the 7th Pay Commission in BJP-ruled states, and was now "selling dreams" in Tripura.

The Congress manifesto also promised direct funding from the Centre to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), introducing the 7th Pay Commission benefits for state government employees and renaming Agartala Airport after the last king of the state, Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur.

Tripura Pradesh Congress working president Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma, who was also present on the occasion, said the BJP's vision document was full of "false promises".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi Police has released sketches of two suspects in connection with the suspected road rage killing of Delhi Congress's Sewa Dal organiser Vinod Mehra.

The Congress Sewa Dal leader was shot dead on Bhalaswa flyover near GT Karnal Road on February 6.

The police released the sketches on the basis of information provided by eyewitnesses.

Mehra was shot in the chest by one of the occupants of a vehicle that scraped past his car on the flyover, in front of his adopted minor son.

The Crime Branch is also trying to nab the culprits along with the local police. The sketches are likely to help in getting clues about the killers of Mehra.

Delhi Congress president Ajay Maken had met the Commissioner of Delhi police recently, seeking immediate arrest of the culprits and security for Mehra's son.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A couple, who was listed on social media as an example of a "love jihad" case, has lodged a complaint with the cyber cell of Kolkata Police after allegedly receiving death threats.

The list, posted by Hindutva Varta on Facebook in January, went viral on Twitter and other social media platforms too. It was deleted later.

"Yeh ek suchi hai un hindu ladkiyonke Facebook profile ki jo love jihad ka shikar ho chuki hain yah ho rahi hain har....sher se aagrah hai, inme jo ladke hain, unki khoj ke shikaar karein (This is a list of Facebook profiles of Hindu women who are victims of love jihad We call upon all... tigers to find out the men listed in these profiles," the post read.

The fringe group also gave links to profiles of inter-faith couples from across the country in its post and asked Hindu girls to be "wary of men" from other religions.

One of the comments below the post had said, "Please note that 90 per cent of the list of Love Jihad victims are from West Bengal."



"Love Jihad, also called Romeo Jihad, is an alleged activity under which young...boys and men are involved," another comment had stated.

A similar status message, seeking the return of girls to their own faiths, was also posted on 'Milan Mela' community's page on Facebook.

"....sakal meyeder nija dharme phiriye anun" (bring all the girls back to their own religions)," it had said



The post in Bengali also shared the Hindu Varta list.

Joint commissioner of police (crime) Praveen Tripathi said the complaint was lodged by the city couple two days ago.

"We are investigating the case. A possible source involved in the matter has been identified," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The CPI(M)'s decision not to ally with the Congress for elections has put the CPI in a quandary as the latter is in favour of a broad front in some states to take on the BJP, but does not want to break the Left unity.

The CPI has again made a pitch for a reunification of the Left parties into one entity, saying the rank and file of the Communist movement favours such a move and attempts should be made to make it a reality as quickly as possible.

"We are definitely for a broad front (to take on the BJP), but we want the entire Left to go together.

"Now, the CPI(M) has taken a different stand. We will again discuss what is to be done. We don't want to break with the Left and go with the Congress," CPI general secretary S Sudhakar Reddy said.

Last month, the central committee of the CPI(M) had adopted a draft political resolution, ruling out any form of electoral alliances or adjustments with the Congress.

Welcoming Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's statement last week that she would work with the "like-minded parties" to ensure that the BJP was defeated in the coming elections, Reddy said it was a "good thing".

He said such a front (against the BJP) was the need of the hour, but added that it would be possible only in some states and not at the national level.

However, such an electoral arrangement was not possible in states where the Congress was directly pitted against regional parties and the Left (like in Kerala), Reddy said.

"But in some states, there is a possibility. We are for it, but at the same time, we don't want to break the Left. How to reconcile both, that we have to work out," he told PTI.

"...If the CPI(M) reconsiders (its decision against a tie-up with the Congress), naturally the Congress and the Left, together, will become a much stronger force even in West Bengal...," Reddy said.

The veteran leader said the CPI was "continuously reiterating" its desire for a reunification of the Left parties.

"We feel that time is running out. As early as possible, this kind of an attempt should be made," he added.

"What I feel...I don't have any proof as such...the rank and file in the Communist movement, they do feel that this is necessary.

"Generally, that's the desire of the Left well-wishers all over the country and the common people as well. Those who are not sympathetic to the Left also say that all of you should come together and become a stronger force," Reddy said.

According to another senior CPI leader, a section of the CPI(M) leadership continues to be "antagonistic" to the CPI, while the section in favour of a reunification is not "putting pressure" on them in this regard.

The CPI was founded in 1925, while the CPI(M) came into existence in 1964, following a split in the CPI.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Turkey has faced criticism after its warships continued to impede a rig from reaching a location off Cyprus where Italian energy company Eni is scheduled to drill for gas.

Cyprus government spokesman Nicos Christodoulides yesterday told state broadcaster RIK that the rig remains anchored about 50 kilometres from the drilling target off the island nation's southeastern coast.

He said both the government and Eni are focused on ensuring that drilling goes ahead as planned.

The Turkish warships also prevented other merchant vessels from approaching the area, citing ongoing military manoeuvres, Christodoulides said. Cyprus says a Turkish notice blocking off the area for military activity violates international law and is legally invalid.

In 1974, Cyprus was divided into a Greek Cypriot south, where the internationally recognised government is seated, and a Turkish Cypriot north that only Turkey recognises and where over 35,000 Turkish troops are stationed.

Turkey opposes the oil drilling, saying it disregards the rights of breakaway Turkish Cypriots to the island's natural resources.

The Cypriot government says it has a sovereign right to drill for gas and that if the search is successful, any income would be shared equitably if the island is reunified.

Greece's foreign ministry condemned what it said was Turkey's disregard for international law and the "blatant violation" of Cyprus' sovereign rights.

It also said that Turkey's "provocative" behaviour wasn't appropriate for a country that has worked to join the European Union membership.

The EU cautioned Turkey to respect the territory of its member states and to avoid ratcheting up tensions. Cyprus joined the EU in 2004, but only the southern part enjoys full membership benefits.

"Turkey needs to commit unequivocally to good neighbourly relations and avoid any kind of source of friction, threat or action directed against a member state" European Commission spokeswoman Mina Andreeva said.

EU Council President Donald Tusk echoed Andreeva. In a post on his official Twitter account, Tusk said he spoke to Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades and called on Turkey to "avoid threats or actions" against EU members and to commit to "peaceful dispute settlement."



Turkey has in the past routinely issued notices binding areas south of Cyprus for naval drills in response to the island nation's hydrocarbons search. But it's the first time that it has taken such a step to prevent drilling.

Last week, Cyprus said Eni had discovered a potentially sizable gas deposit at another target southwest of the island.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Science organisations in the city came together to observe 'Darwin Week' from today to effectively put to rest any "confusion" regarding his 'theory of evolution'.

The 'Darwin Week' was being observed by the India March for Science Organising Committee, Kolkata and Breakthrough Science Society, West Bengal Chapter.

The event will look to generate awareness among the public, including students, about Darwin's contributions to the science of evolution, and "to dispel any confusion in this regard among the young minds," Prof Nilesh Maity said on behalf of the organisers.

Charles Darwin's theory of evolution was recently challenged by Union Minister of State for Human Resource Development Satyapal Singh, at a function in Aurangabad.

Singh had claimed that Darwin's theory was "scientifically wrong" and proposed to drop it from the school and college curriculum.

As his comments triggered a row, Singh's senior Cabinet colleague Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar said he had asked the MoS to refrain from making comments on issues such as Darwin's Evolution theory.

Eminent academicians from different institutions, students and reseachers will be taking part in seminars and popular talks in educational institutions in the city from February 12-18 during the 'Darwin Week'.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jammu and Kashmir Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu today said the proposed dry ports to be build by the Dubai Ports World and the state government through a joint venture would immensely improve the quality and structure of the local economy.

The ports are proposed to be built at Jammu and Srinagar, the minister



"The proposed Multi Modal Logistics Parks (dry ports) will facilitate faster movement of local produce to the processing centres and the markets outside.

"This will raise the income of farmers, industrialists, traders and businessmen, and create a large number of jobs," Drabu told media-persons on is arrival from Dubai this morning.

Drabu, on behalf of the J-K Government, yesterday signed an MoU in Abu Dhabi with Dubai Ports Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The ports would be set up in the state through Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

The minister said that the Multi-Modal Logistic Park as the name suggests is one centralised place for all types of transportation activities and value added services needed by exporters and local traders for shipment their goods.

"It also works as an inter-linking point for all modes of transport at one specific place," he said.

The Dubai Ports team has already reached here to formally start work on the ambitious project in consultation with the state's industries and commerce department, Drabu said.

He said that in the first phase an investment of Rs 1,500 crore would be made by the Dubai Ports World which would increase to Rs 5000 crore over the next five years.

The minister said that the proposed Inland Logistic Parks to be established at Samba in Jammu and Ompora in Kashmir would include warehouses and specialised storage solutions for transportation of agriculture, horticulture and handicraft products.

Drabu said it will not only bring down the transportation costs of goods, but also increase their market accessibility and transform the abysmal scenario wherein logistics accounts for about 18 per cent of the total product cost, as against 8- 12 per cent in other countries.

"These logistic parks would immensely improve efficiency in freight movement, bringing down the transportation costs by 20 to 25 per cent and giving major fillip to the local economy," he said.

Sulayem, along with a team of senior executives of the Dubai Ports visited J-K earlier this week to hash-out the modalities for setting up the parks in Jammu and Srinagar and finalise the MoU in this regard.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The ED today questioned RJD chief Lalu Prasad's son-in-law Rahul Yadav in connection with its money laundering probe in a case related to alleged corruption in the allotment of railway hotels, official sources said.

Rahul Yadav appeared before the investigating officer (IO) of the case at about 1 pm and his statement would be recorded under the anti-money law, the sources said.

Rahul Yadav is the husband of Lalu Prasad's fourth daughter Ragini.

The Enforcement Directorate first summoned Rahul Yadav last month after it allegedly detected "movement of funds" from him to his mother-in-law, Rabri Devi.

The ED is already probing the role of Lalu Prasad's eldest son-in-law Shailesh Kumar, who is married to Misa Bharti, in a separate money laundering case linked to the purchase of alleged tainted assets involving a firm, Ms Mishail Packers and Printers Pvt Ltd.

This firm is said to be linked to Misa, a Rajya Sabha MP of the Rashtriya Janta Dal (RJD), and Shailesh Kumar. A charge sheet in the case has been filed before a court here.

As part of the fresh summonses, the ED wants to seek an explanation from Rahul Yadav about the transfer of funds to the tune of about Rs 1 crore, apart from answering few other queries related to a firm embroiled in this case, Delight Marketing, sources said.

The central probe agency had earlier questioned Rabri Devi and her son Tejashwi Yadav in the case.

Tejashwi Yadav was, till recently, Bihar deputy chief minister in the government led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Kumar later broke ties with the RJD and formed government with the BJP.

The ED, in July last year, had registered a case against Lalu Prasad, his family members and others under various sections of the Prevention of Monwy Laundering Act (PMLA).

Before that, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had registered a first information report and conducted multiple searches on the properties of Lalu Prasad and others.

The CBI FIR alleged that Lalu Prasad, during his tenure as railway minister in the UPA-I government, handed the maintenance of two IRCTC hotels to a company in 2004 after a bribe in the form of prime land in Patna through a benami company owned by Sarla Gupta, the wife of Prem Chand Gupta, a former Union minister.

The ED registered the criminal case against his family members and others under the PMLA, based on this CBI FIR.

It is investigating the alleged "proceeds of crime" generated by the accused, purportedly through shell companies in this deal.

Others named in the CBI FIR include Vijay Kochhar, Vinay Kochhar (both directors of Sujata Hotels), Delight Marketing company, now known as Lara Projects, and then Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation managing director P K Goel.

The CBI FIR was registered on July 5 last year in connection with alleged favours extended to Sujata Hotels in awarding a contract for the upkeep of the hotels in Ranchi and Puri and receiving premium land as "quid pro quo".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Goa Agriculture Minister Vijai Sardesai on Monday said a 'Gangs of Wasseypur'-like situation would arise in Goa if "outsiders" gain control of the mining industry in the state, days after the apex court quashed renewal of 88 mining leases and provided an option of an auction.

Directed by Anurag Kashyap, 'Gangs of Wasseypur' -- the two-part crime film -- is centred on the coal mafia operating in Dhanbad in Jharkhand, and the underlying power struggles, politics and vengeance.

Sardesai also said it would be better to close down the mining industry than it be handled by people from outside Goa.

"There is a possibility that if you come out with auctioning, you will have 'Gangs of Wasseypur'-kind of situation in Goa. What happened for coal in Dhanbad can happen in Goa. And this is my fear," he said.

Sardesai's Goa Forward Party (GFP) is one of the constituents of the BJP-headed NDA government in the coastal state. The other alliance partners are the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and three Independent MLAs.

"Those involved in making policies related to mining should see that they make right ones (policies). What had happened all this while is that the mining industry was with the Goan mine owners.

"Tomorrow (after auctioning) if mine owners, truck owners, drivers of trucks and machine operators all are from outside, then why do we require mining industry in the state?" the minister told reporters here.

Sardesai had stoked a major row last week when he termed domestic tourists visiting Goa as the "scum of the earth" and claimed that "North Indians" wanted to "create a Haryana" in the coastal state.

"We are dependent on north Indians and this is what they do. They are not bothered about Goa. They will like to recreate a Haryana in Goa," he said while speaking at Goa Biz Fest.

The Supreme Court had on February 7 quashed the second renewal of iron ore mining leases given to 88 companies in Goa in 2015. The apex court directed the Centre and the Goa government to grant fresh environmental clearances to them.

The SC also said the state government was obliged to grant fresh mining leases in accordance with law, in view of its previous judgement, and not second renewals to mining lease holders.

The mining industry in Goa had expressed apprehension that the SC order would lead to the total closure of operations.

To a question, Sardesai said the implication of the SC order is that the government may have to make new policies.

"I am part of the government to make the policies. But at the same time, what we fear is what I have expressed," he said.

Asserting that the policy of the GFP that is Goa's wealth should remain with Goans, Sardesai said, "The one who works out policies should think about it.The ex-servicemen wing of the Akali Dal today asked the state government to fill vacancies reserved for ex-servicemen immediately.

Gen (retd) J J Singh, the president of the wing, said the Congress government should not make "excuses" for not filling the 13 per cent ex-servicemen quota in government jobs.

He said the government should provide skill development to ex-servicemen wherever needed so that their quota is filled appropriately.

Singh made the remarks while addressing the first meeting of the ex-servicemen wing in the party office which was attended by senior functionaries from across the state.

The ex-servicemen president said he also got feedback at the meeting that ex-servicemen were not getting rank equivalence when they joined the state police.

"We will take up this issue forcefully and get it resolved," he said adding that there were complaints from ex-servicemen that corruption had increased tremendously in government offices since the last one year.

"We will form a committee to examine this issue," he added.

He claimed there was also a general feeling among ex-servicemen that they were not getting due respect in government offices.

"Veterans are not being treated with the respect they deserve. The government should take corrective measures and give appropriate directions to resolve this issue immediately, " he said.

He also demanded an increase in compensation to all servicemen who got martyred in the call of duty. "The present compensation being given to their families is very little and needs to the enhanced," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The SDMC House today cleared the civic body's annual budget, which includes property tax exemption for medal winners in Olympics and other top games, and free-of-cost sanitary pads to girls in schools when needed.

Leader of the House in the BJP-led South Delhi Municipal Corporation, Shikha Rai, finalised the estimated SDMC budget for 2018-19, and rejected the new tax and hike in the property tax proposed in the Commissioner's budget in December.

The budget was cleared in a special session of the SDMC House chaired by Mayor Kamaljeet Sehrawat. The decisions approved will come into effect after formal approval by the municipal commissioner.

"Martyrs belonging to the armed forces and the para- military forces and their widows; medal winners in Olympics, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games will get full exemption on payment of property tax for one residential property," the SDMC said.

"Ex-servicemen are to get 30 per cent rebate, on lumpsum payment of property tax, up to June 30, for one residential property," it said.

Rai later interacting with reporters, acknowledged that there was still a lot of taboo attached to menstrual hygiene, and "many girls skip schools during menstruation".

"So, we have decided to give sanitary pads to girls in schools, when they need it. We have also sensitised our teachers about it," she said.

The budget has also accepted one of the suggestions made by BJP's Malviya Nagar councillor Nandini Sharma, to offer wood shavings for use in the funeral pyre, to the poor at no cost.

"The wood left from pruning of trees and plants will be given to the poor for free for cremation. So, the department concerned would coordinate with the horticulture department in future," she said in her budget speech.

Incidentally, the Opposition AAP heckled her multiple times, saying, many of the announcements made by Rai, including on the matter of all 104 wards of SDMC becoming open defecation-free, were "mere claims" and "existed on papers only".

Also, a "glaring mistake" in the printed budget speech, on the subject of the recent proposal of the DDA to increase FAR (floor area ratio) for local shopping complexes, drew flak from the Opposition, both the Congress and the AAP, who urged the mayor, to get it rectified.

As per the proposed amendment in the Master Plan of Delhi 2021, the FAR is to be a uniform 350 for 100 sqm. The decision is yet to be cleared by the DDA' top decision-making body, but the printed speech says, "it has been done".

"It was a printing mistake," Rai told reporters.

The budget has also proposed 16 multi-level automated car parking and procurement of 72 electric cars soon.

"The new parking policy of Delhi government is to come soon. But, the SDMC is not in favour of charging parking fee for parking of vehicles in the inside lanes of colonies," Rai said.

Other decisions approved include, hike in fodder allowance for upkeep of cows in gaushalas, from Rs 20 to Rs 50; renaming of schools, parks and community centres to be after those killed in the line of duty, freedom fighters and great leaders.

Also, each councillor will also get Rs 10,000 for celebration of national events such as Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti.

Besides, the mayor also announced to provide 10 Victorian-styled benches each for all 104 wards, two mobile health vans, from the Mayor's Fund.

All lighting system in schools would be replaced with LED lights, the mayor said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Hardline Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani today demanded a blanket ban on use and sale of liquor in Jammu and Kashmir while citing prohibition in other states.

Geelani appealed to religious scholars to launch a sustained campaign against the use of liquor and make people aware about its ill effects on health, society and family relations.

"It is encouraging that people in the state are raising their voice against this evil," Geelani said in a statement, adding "we hope everybody will play their role to eradicate this evil from society."



Referring to a private member's bill on prohibition in the Assembly, the Hurriyat leader expressed surprise that the legislators had claimed that a ban on sale of liquor will hit revenue generation and cited the experience of other India states which have banned alcohol.

"The other four states of India, which have completely banned the sale of liquor, do not complain of any loss of revenue and even nobody is dying from hunger or poverty," he said.

Bihar, Gujarat and Nagaland have banned alcohol while Kerala to had introduced partial prohibition.

Geelani said "liquor ismother of all evils and does not only cause cancer like diseases but also disturbs the social fabric by giving birth to many social evils".

"Consumption of alcohol destroys the sacred and holy relations of the society and it has become a major cause of domestic violence," he claimed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Pramod Sawant, has refused to allow private member resolutions to be moved during the upcoming Budget session on the installation of statues in the Assembly complex.

The budget session of the assembly, which will begin from February 19, had several legislators moving private member resolutions to install statues of leaders like Opinion Poll hero Jack Sequeira, freedom fighters T B Cunha and Ram Manohar Lohia and Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji in the Assembly complex.

"The Speaker has decided not to allow any such private member resolution asking for a statue in the assembly complex. The Speaker has used his power to refuse these resolutions," a senior official from the state secretariat told PTI today, adding that the Speaker had the power to decide on whether or not to accept any resolution during the session.

The Goa Forward Party president Vijai Sardesai, reacting to the Speakers decision, said the state government has already conceded to the demand of including the history of the Opinion Poll in the school syllabus.

When asked about the statue in the Assembly complex, he said that the party would fight it in the right forum.

The opposition Congress said that they would question the decision of the Speaker, with Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar stating that it would raise the issue on the first day (February 19) of the session.

The demand for the statues started with the first private member resolution tabled by BJP legislator, and Deputy Speaker, Michael Lobo who wanted Sequeiras statue to be installed.

MGP MLA Deepak Pawaskar had moved a resolution for the installation of statue of TB Cunha and Ram Manohar Lohia while BJP legislator Rajesh Patnekar had demanded that a statue of Shivaji be installed in the assembly complex.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Attacking Union Minister Kiren Rijiju for his tweet defending RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) today alleged that it has become "even more evident" that the government is being "remote- controlled" by the Sangh.

"A minister of the government is supporting and defending the RSS. Kiren Rijiju is not a minister of state but a minister of Sangh," Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien told reporters today.

Referring to Bhagwat's remarks on the Army and the incident in Kolkata where the DG BSF K K Sharma had, in uniform, reportedly attended a conference on border security conducted by an RSS-affiliated organisation, the TMC said it cannot be a coincident.

"Every constitutional institution is becoming marginalised. Raj Bhavans have now become shakhas and some governors have become RSS pracharaks. Tripura Governor has become another troll army of RSS," O'Brien alleged.

After a row over Bhagwat's remarks on the Army, Minister of State for Home Rijiju today tweeted that "Bhagwat had only said it takes 6-7 months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has the ability to contribute".

"After the tweet of Rijiju, it has become even more evident that this government is being remote-controlled by the RSS," the Trinamool leader said



The TMC is likely to give notices in Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha on what it called the "breakdown of constitutional institutions" in the second half of Budget session of parliament.

The Mamata Banerjee-led party said that since the BJP had realised that they have "lost the narrative on the real issues, they are trying to capture the constitutional institutions including the government and parliament".

The RSS today clarified that Bhagwat had not compared the Indian Army with Sangh volunteers and his remarks on the matter were "misrepresented".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The commerce and industry ministry today said national productivity week will be observed till February 18.

The National Productivity Council, under the ministry, has selected 'Industry 4.0 Leapfrog Opportunity for India' as the theme for the week.

In a statement, the ministry said that Industry 4.0 or the fourth industrial revolution would boost growth of manufacturing sector with the use of modern technologies.

"This will result in the 'Smart Factory' which is characterised by versatility, resource efficiency, ergonomic design and direct integration with business partners," it added.

*********** ICICI Lombard General Insurance, RBL Bank tie up for non-life insurance products *



ICICI Lombard General Insurance and RBL Bank have entered into a corporate agency tie-up agreement for the distribution of non-life insurance products, a release said today.

"The agreement has been signed for the distribution of ICICI Lombard's non-life insurance products at RBL Bank branches all over the country as part of the insurer's Bancassurance channel focus," it said.

ICICI Lombard will offer its non-life insurance solutions to RBL Bank customers spread across the latter's 246 branches.

"Bancassurance tie-up is an important part of ICICI Lombard's growth strategy and the company is focused on forging successful alliances, to enhance its distribution network in the country," the release said.

*********** SAIL joins hands with IIT-K to promote 'Science of Happiness' *



Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) has joined hands with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur to promote 'Science of Happiness'.

This initiative is aimed at embracing 'Science of Happiness' for enhancing wellbeing and effectiveness of its employees and to enable them to contribute in a meaningful way towards the vision of the organisation, the state-run firm said.

Under the programme, the participants will be given various conceptual and practical inputs related to positive psychology, biology of belief, power of gratitude, measurements of body parameters through bio-feedback mechanisms and mindfulness practices, SAIL said.

The Rekhi Centre of Excellence for Science of Happiness was set up in IIT Kharagpur in 2016 with a vision to promote the science and practice of positivity for fostering meaningful life, happiness, wellbeing and holistic self- development, the statement said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Greece's prime minister says he wants Parliament to investigate the alleged involvement of past administration officials, including two former prime ministers, in a major pharmaceutical bribery scandal.

Alexis Tsipras said today the allegations are indicative of the "moral decadence" that helped stoke Greece's debt crisis.

The claims follow an investigation into bribes Swiss drug-maker Novartis allegedly paid to boost sales and prices of Novartis products at state hospitals.

Under Greek law, allegations concerning politicians must be reviewed by Parliament before lawmakers can authorise prosecutions.

The officials allegedly involved include Bank of Greece governor Yannis Stournaras, EU Home Affairs Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos, former conservative prime minister Antonis Samaras, and Panagiotos Pikramenos, a former caretaker prime minister. They have denied the allegations.

Novartis has said it's cooperating with Greek authorities.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A live grenade was today found in the SUV of a Congress supporter here, police said.

The grenade was attached to the spare tyre of Michael Pakyntein's SUV, which was parked outside his residence, City SP Spill Thamar told journalists.

The incident was reported around 11:30 am today and a bomb squad that rushed to the spot confirmed it was a live Chinese grenade.

It was defused soon after, Thamar said.

"A thorough investigation will be conducted to nab the culprits and police will also try to find out if it was fallout of a political rivalry in the area," he said.

Pakyntein, a former confidante and supporter of United Democratic Party legislator Paul Lyngdoh in Shillong West constituency, is rooting for Congress nominee M Rapsang in the assembly polls.

Meghalaya is set to go to polls on February 27 and the results will be announced on March 3.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi High Court today expressed anguish over the manner in which posts were being circulated on social media "without any sense of responsibility" and authenticity of its source.

The issue cropped up in a matter where several students were shown to have passed an examination by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India in posts circulated on Facebook and WhatsApp, while the result published on the institute's website showed that they all had failed.

Twenty three students approached the court challenging the results and prayed for summoning of records of the institute including tabulations in the codified and de- codified form, based on which the result of the November 2017 examination was sent to their regional council and branches.

The court dismissed the petition saying it was devoid of merits. However, the court observed that it was unfortunate that hopes of various students were shattered due to the social media posts showing wrong results.

"Before I conclude, I must express my anguish at the manner in which the WhatsApp and Facebook posts are being circulated without any sense of responsibility.

"No doubt, hopes of some students have been shattered... while the court can only express its concern over the manner in which communications are circulated on WhatsApp/Facebook without any authenticity of the source thereof, the legal position does not in any manner support the petitioners," Justice Rekha Palli said.

The students were, admittedly, found unsuccessful as per the official results declared by the respondent (institute), the judge said



The court noted that the students had not challenged the manner of marking in the examination and the only ground raised by them was that perhaps they were initially granted more grade marks which were then subsequently reduced.

"This unfortunately cannot be a ground to interfere with the final results published by the institute on its websites," the court said.

The students claimed that on January 17 this year, through messages on social media platform, they learnt that "notifications" declaring the result of the examination had been circulated by the institute to its centres, branches and members. According to that, they all had passed the exam.

While annexing the copy of the screenshots obtained from the social media, they admitted that they were not sure about the authenticity and correctness of the e-mail and have got it from the facebook.

The students said when they logged on to the website of the institute to obtain their mark-sheets, they were shocked to see that they were shown to have failed in their respective groups even though as per the "notification" being circulated on social media, they had all passed.

The institute's counsel argued that the petition was wholly misconceived and liable to be dismissed and the result published on its website showed no changes at any time.

He said that the so-called "notification" on which reliance was sought by the students' counsel was not a notification and they themselves were not sure about the authenticity of the mails obtained via social media.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A spectacular fireworks display staged annually over Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour to mark Lunar New Year will be cancelled this year as the city mourns victims of a deadly bus crash, it was announced today.

A speeding double-decker overturned in northern Hong Kong on Saturday evening, killing 19 and leaving more than 60 injured, some critically.

It was the second deadliest bus accident in recent years in the semi-autonomous southern Chinese city, which prides itself on one of the world's best public transport systems.

As Hong Kong went into mourning, the government responded to mounting pressure from lawmakers to call off the fireworks scheduled for the second day of Chinese New Year on Saturday.

Chinese tradition says the seventh day after a death is when the spirit of the deceased returns to bid farewell for the last time.

"Residents are grieving and want to express their sombre mood, and their respect and care for the dead and injured," said Chief Executive Carrie Lam.

Scores of residents flooded Red Cross centres yesterday to donate blood for the injured, local media reported.

A 30-year-old driver has been arrested for dangerous driving but the accident has also reignited concern over working conditions for bus drivers.

Lam has pledged an independent investigation and called for a broad examination of the city's bus franchise system.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Unidentified gunmen today shot dead a separatist activist in the Beerwah area of central Kashmir's Budgam district, police said.

Mohammad Yousuf Rather, an activist of the Hurriyat Conference, was shot at by the gunmen at Charangam, a police official said.

Rather died on the spot, the official said adding further details were awaited.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Abandoning milch cows in Haryana may come at a price as a fine of Rs 5,100 would be imposed on those who do so, according to Bhani Ram Mangla, Chairman, Haryana Gau Seva Aayog.

For this purpose, a mobile application is being prepared which would reveal information about the place and district of animal on the basis of tag number, he said.

He was speaking at a function where financial assistance cheques to Gaushalas in district Bhiwani were distributed.

Mangla today distributed cheques of about Rs 26.50 lakh to 24 guashalas, an official release said here.

He said that according to a decision of the government, 'Gau Seva Kendras' (Cow service centres) would be established in villages for the safety of 'Gauvansh'.

The government would give financial assistance for this purpose, he said. The registration of these seva kendras would be mandatory and a committee of eminent persons would be constituted for their functioning, he said.

The Aayog would give a lump sum amount of Rs 5,000 per cow annually for its rearing. Mangla said that 90 per cent grant would be given on equipment used to make flowerpots, soaps, lamps, dhoop and other items from cow urine and cow dung.

Similarly, those Gaushalas which have excess land, would get 90 per cent grant on fodder cutting machine. He said that biogas plants would be got established in Gaushalas.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi High Court today asked the Centre to examine grievances raised in a PIL seeking an independent Muslim body to look into arrangements for Haj pilgrims, holding that it was an important issue which needed its "considerable view".

A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar said the authorities needed to look into the matter and take a view "expeditiously".

"The respondents (Centre and the ministries concerned) need to examine and take a view thereafter expeditiously. The decision should be communicated to the petitioner (advocate)," the bench said.

It added, "We are of the view that it should be looked into as it was an important matter".

The court thereafter disposed of the petition while directing the government to treat the PIL, filed by Delhi- based advocate Shahid Ali, as a representation and take a considerable view of it.

The plea referred to a recent notification of the Centre, scrapping a subsidy for cheaper flights for the pilgrimage.

Since the subsidy had now been scrapped, it said there was no need for a government-controlled panel to manage its affairs and the Haj Committee Act 2002 was also liable to be quashed.

The central government had in 1959 introduced a subsidy for air travel between Bombay and Jeddah. Other flights on Air India, the state-owned carrier, were added over time.

"Pass order or direction or issuance of an appropriate writ, thereby quashing the present Constitution of the Haj committee and further allowing Muslim citizens of India to formulate their own body...," the plea said.

It pointed out that the Sikh community in India was allowed to set up its own body to manage its minority affairs under the Sikh Gurudwara Act, 1925.

The question of whether the government should continue to look at the affairs of the Haj Committee, right from inviting applications for Haj till the return of Hajis after the pilgrimage, had acquired importance after the Centre scrapped the subsidy, the petition said.

It said an independent agency without any control of the government should deal with the issues.

The plea has also sought direction to the Ministry of Civil Aviation to either float open tenders inviting bids from all existing airlines flying between India and Saudi Arabia or allowing pilgrims to directly purchase tickets for their Haj flights.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Senior officials of India and Bangladesh held detailed discussions in Dhaka on ways to boost bilateral trade and investments.

The commerce secretary level talks were held on February 7-8.

"The two sides held extensive and productive discussions on issues concerning bilateral trade and economic relations, including development and upgradation of infrastructure at border trading points," the commerce ministry said in a statement.

Both sides also deliberated upon expansion of border haats, identification and resolution of non-tariff issues affecting bilateral trade, regional connectivity under BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal ) MVA (motor vehicles agreement) and ease of investment, it said.

The ministry said the two countries agreed to explore possibilities to enhance bilateral trade relations and cooperation in fields of export promotion and capacity building.

The commerce secretaries also discussed about establishment of an institutional B2B mechanism to provide policy-level inputs on trade and investment.

Bilateral trade between the countries increased to USD 7.52 billion in 2016-17 from USD 6.76 billion in the previous fiscal.

India's main exports to Bangladesh include cotton, iron and steel, vehicles and chemicals, while imports are jute and textiles.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India remains a challenging market for Intellectual Property-intensive investment even as the Indo-US commercial relationship provides significant opportunities for bilateral trade, a top American trade body has told the Trump administration.

The US Chambers of Commerce, in a submission to the US Trade Representatives of its Special 301 Review, said that its members observed some positive developments in 2017 but overall there were mixed policy signals from India, which continue to stall the overall IP and innovation landscape for industry.

"While the US-India commercial relationship poses significant opportunities for bilateral trade, India remains a challenging market for IP-intensive investment," the US Chambers of Commerce said.

The Chambers noted that level and frequency of engagement between the US and Indian governments in 2017 continued to be a source of hope for the future, marked by ongoing dialogue on a broad range of IP rights issues between the two countries under the Trade Policy Forum and the Commercial Dialogue.

"We are encouraged that both sides exchanged thoughts on a range of market access barriers in India, including the protection and enforcement of IP rights, and committed to further engagement in an effort to achieve concrete outcomes leading up to the 2018 dialogue and beyond," it said.

The decrease in the US trade deficit in goods with India over the past year is a testament to the actions and policies of both governments to benefit American workers and jobs, the Chambers said and strongly hoped that continued discussion will ensure a return of fair value to innovators and greater access to innovation for Indians.

It expressed concern about the new Draft Pharmaceutical Policy proposed by India's Department of Pharmaceuticals.

On the one hand, it is forward-looking in its approach: It recognises the high risks and high costs of entry to the bio-pharmaceutical sector at the firm level and suggests the need for sufficient economic incentives, combined with a high degree of legal certainty, to make the risks sustainable over the long life-cycle that connects R&D to financing to product development and commercialisation.

"On the other hand, while patented medicines are excluded from price controls, the draft policy explicitly reserves the right to issue compulsory licenses," it said.

An active compulsory licensing mechanism and a government bias towards its use is the most extreme option; it signals to innovative investors that patent rights are discretionary, largely undermining the critical forward-looking aspects of this draft policy.

Furthermore, pricing that does not properly value innovation has the impact of undermining and devaluing IP and access to innovation.

"We would welcome an approach that is predicated on consistency, transparency, predictability, and return of fair value for innovation," the Chambers said.

In its submission, it charged that India championed the weakening of IP rights in multilateral organisations, including WIPO and the WHO.

The US industry continues to be concerned by the potential threat of compulsory licensing, it said.

While no additional compulsory licenses for biopharmaceuticals were issued by Indian authorities in 2017, India continues to examine potential compulsory licenses under Section 92, and Indian companies continued to seek compulsory licenses under Section 84.

"We continue to urge the Modi government to repudiate the use of compulsory licenses as a commercial tool," it said.

The Chambers said not only do India's new telecommunications security requirements raise potential WTO compliance concerns, but if they remain unchallenged, other governments may use them to justify their own elaborate information security regimes.

"In other words, India's approach is establishing a dangerous precedent for governments that may be inclined to use national security claims in a way that is detrimental to global ICT trade," it said.

As such it asked the US Trade Representatives that it should urge India to continue to work closely with all stakeholders, including global telecommunications service providers and equipment vendors to ensure that implementation of the telecommunications security provisions do not undermine basic IP protection, nor create obligations outside of global norms that inhibit market access.Knocked back in the previous match, India will look to crush a South African revival before it becomes a threat to their pursuit of a maiden ODI series triumph here when the two sides clash in the fifth one-dayer, tomorrow.

The Men in Blue still have a two-match cushion in the six-ODI series. They lead 3-1 after winning the first in Durban by six wickets, the second in Centurion by nine wickets and the third in Cape Town by 124 runs.

The Proteas bounced back by winning the rain-affected and lightning-struck Pink ODI in Johannesburg by five wickets.

India's wrist-spinners versus South Africa's batting line-up is still the key contest going ahead in this series. At Johannesburg, the dual rain intervention affected India's momentum with both the bat and ball.

More importantly, it reduced the target sufficiently that, despite AB de Villiers' relative early dismissal, the home batsmen didn't have much trouble getting past.

The T20-mode of that second innings, coupled with the best batting surface of the series, allowed David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen to attack the wrist spinners and take the game away.

Of course, the dropped catch and bowling Miller off a no ball didn't help India's cause either. Yet, a rain-truncated innings is hardly enough evidence that South Africa have learnt how to contend with the wrist spin of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav.

Additionally, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah were not used to great effect as Virat Kohli chose to rely on the spinners, even when they were unable to respond to the Proteas' concentrated attack.

In this light, India's team selection will come into focus in Port Elizabeth. There are still question-marks about the fitness of Kedar Jadhav, who suffered a hamstring injury in Cape Town and missed the previous game.

Albeit a part-timer, in his absence, India lose a reliable bowling alternative particularly if Hardik Pandya takes some stick and cannot complete his quota of overs.

Jadhav is adept at bowling slow spin, and mixing it up well with Chahal and Yadav. India do not have many fall-back options in Jadhav's absence -- Rohit Sharma last bowled an ODI over at Perth in January 2016.

Shreyas Iyer is known to practice leg break and had bowled an over against Sri Lanka in his debut series.

Neither of them provides a reliable option like Jadhav does. Kohli himself is the other contender, but he bowls seam-up.

In summation, Jadhav's bowling is being missed more than his batting ability despite a troublesome middle-order and it indicates India's team balance is still not optimal.

Ajinkya Rahane has scored 11 and 8 since making a comeback 79 at no.4. Pandya's forgettable tour with the bat (since the first Test in early January) continues, with scores of 14 and 9 in his last two outings.

MS Dhoni's 42 not out (off 43 balls) was the only saving grace for this shaky middle-order as India struggled to finish well at Johannesburg.

The series' score-line has conveniently hid the fact that India have a top-heavy batting order, despite the poor form of Rohit Sharma, who has scored 40 runs in the first four ODIs and boasts a gradually sinking ODI average of 11.45 in 12 matches on South African soil.

Kohli (393 runs) and Shikhar Dhawan (271 runs) have scored nearly thrice the number of runs put together by the remaining batsmen (239) and it ought to be a cause of major worry for the Indian think-tank.

This fact will not go overlooked and South Africa will be keen to exploit the Indian line-up's frailty and dismiss Kohli and Dhawan cheaply to gain an early advantage.

It remains to be seen what bowling combination the hosts will go in with. On a hard and bouncy Wanderers' wicket, they had dropped a full-time spinner altogether, relying solely on JP Duminy to do that job.

St. George's Park though has a history of aiding spinners and in the last two ODIs played here, the Proteas' spinners have been in prominence. In January 2017, Imran Tahir took 3- 26 against Sri Lanka.

In October 2016, Tabraiz Shamsi picked up 3-36 against Australia while South Africa also picked a second spinner in Aaron Phangiso who took 2-17.

South Africa have lost 11 out of 32 matches played at this ground. Six of those losses have come in the last decade as Port Elizabeth hosts at least one ODI every home summer.

India's record here is nothing to write about either. They have lost all 5 ODIs played here since 1992.

Four of those defeats came against South Africa, while the Men in Blue even managed to lose to Kenya here during the one-day triangular as part of their 2001-02 tour.

In fact, in five previous ODI outings in Port Elizabeth, India have never scored 200 runs here as 176 against South Africa in October 2001 is their highest total yet.

Once again on this trip, India will have to fight dubious past performances and erase a lop-sided record, only this time in a bid to carve out a fresh piece of history.

Teams (from):



India: Virat Kohli (capt), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (wk), Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Shardul Thakur.

South Africa: Aiden Markram (capt), Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, Imran Tahir, David Miller, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Lungisani Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Khayelihle Zondo, Farhaan Behardien, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), AB de Villiers.

Match starts at: 4:30 pm IST.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said today that intelligence inputs suggested that terrorists who attacked the Sunjuwan Military Camp here were controlled by handlers from across the border.

Three terrorists were killed even as the initial information was about four of them, she said adding that the fourth may have acted as a guide. There was a possibility that the intruders benefited from local support, she added.

The attack by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists, sponsored by Pakistan based Azhar Masood, resulted in the death of six people including five soldiers, she told reporters.

The counter terrorist operation at the military camp was called off this morning but sanitisation operations were still on, she added.

The defence minister said the JeM module which conducted the attack may have infiltrated sometime back and possibly enjoyed local support.

"The counter terrorist operation in Sunjuwan Military camp was called off at 1030 hours today. However, sanitisation operations are still on," she told reporters here.

She said the terrorists, sponsored by Azhar Masood in Pakistan, chose to attack a military station which houses both troops and their families.

The cantonment is located on the outskirts of Jammu, approximately 30 km from the international boundary in a semi-urbanised environment with a densely populated civilian locality, she said.

"The demography of the cantonment and adjoining areas indicate the possibility of local support to the terrorists and an alert had been sounded on the likelihood of an attack by the terrorists around this period," she said.

The defence minister said that quick reaction teams (QRTs) were deployed in vulnerable areas. It was assessed that Pak-Sponsored terrorists may target softer elements, hence, QRTs were also positioned at Sunjuwan family quarters, she said.

Sitharaman said the intrusions of the terrorists was promptly detected by the sentry and challenged by a nearby QRT leading to the brief exchange of fire.

"This immediate action forced terrorists to split into individual positions and prevented a coordinated strike. The scattered terrorists reached the family quarters and occupied some of the blocks," she said.

They were isolated, and since the terrorists were dressed in battle fatigues, and had an appearance similar to to their possible victims, the operation had to be done "deliberately slow" to avoid collateral damages, she said.

"The operation entailed the deliberate search of 26 blocks and safe evacuation of families from 189 flats which was time consuming and a challenging task, she said.

This was successfully achieved with no fatal casualties to our troops.

"Six fatal casualties, including a civilian, were caused by the terrorists due to their firing on unarmed service personnel and their dependents during the initial seizing of the residential quarters in an attempt to gain forceful entry into the family quarters," she said.

The defence minister said three terrorists were eliminated although there was information of four terrorists in the area.

It is likely that the fourth terrorist was a guide and may not have entered the premises, she added.

"Our intelligence inputs indicate that these terrorists were being controlled by their handlers from across the border," she said.

Sitharaman she said the evidence was being scrutinised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which shall soon furnish a detailed report.

In the end, I wish to express my deepest condolences on the loss of lives of our brave soldiers and their families during the dastardly attack on our unarmed soldiers and assure our nation that their sacrifice would not go in vain, she said.

"I compliment the valour of our brave soldiers who carried out this operation with precision and professionalism.

We will continue to thwart any attempt by Pakistan sponsored terrorists to cause violence in our country," she said.

Earlier in the day, Sitharaman visited those injured in the terror strike at a Military hospital here. The defence minister then met Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti. Sitharaman was briefed on the security situation in the wake of the Sunjuwan terror attack, officials said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Interpol has praised India after the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department's State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) managed to arrest a turtle smuggler whose network was spread across several countries, MP forest officials said today.

The Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF), Wildlife, Jitendra Agrawal, today informed that the Interpol, in a letter to the National Crime Records Bureau on February 7, praised India for arresting Manivannan Murugesan.

The STSF's head Ritesh Sarothiya told PTI that Murugesan was arrested from Chennai on January 31, following which it alerted other acountries about the arrest.

"Murugesan's arrest was important as he was ranked third in the world among the smugglers of rare breed turtles. He is a native of Singapore and his illegal trade is spread across Thailand, Malaysia, Macau, Hong Kong, China and Madagascar," he said.

Agrawal said that the Interpol was tracking Murugesan for along time and it was the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department that shared information about him with other countries.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Investigators will examine today numerous possible causes of one of Russia's worst ever aviation accidents that saw a passenger plane carrying 71 people crash near Moscow minutes after take off, killing everyone on board.

Russia's Investigative Committee said it would consider explanations including human error, technical failure and weather conditions, as the country has experienced record snowfall in recent weeks. But it did not mention the possibility of terrorism.

The Antonov An-148 plane went down in the Ramensky district on the outskirts of Moscow at 2:48 pm yesterday after taking off from Domodedovo airport in the capital.

"Sixty-five passengers and six crew members were on board, and all of them died," Russia's office of transport investigations said in a statement



Three children were among the fatalities on a list published by Russian authorities.

The flight was operated by the domestic Saratov Airlines and was headed for Orsk, a city in the Ural mountains.

More than 400 people and 70 vehicles had been deployed to the crash site, the country's emergency ministry said.

The site was enveloped in heavy snow, making it difficult to access, with emergency workers forced to park their vehicles and reach the wreckage by foot. Others used snowmobiles and drones to survey the scene.

Russian transport minister Maksim Sokolov said "genetic expertise" would be needed to help identify the victims, adding that it could "take two or three months".

"I felt a shock wave," Maria, a resident of a village near the crash site, told AFP.

"The windows shook," she said



The transport investigations office said the plane disappeared from radar screens around four minutes after take-off.

A regional official said the aircraft's black box had been retrieved.

The Russian-made plane was reportedly seven years old and bought by Saratov Airlines from another Russian airline a year ago.

Saratov was founded in the 1930s and flies to 35 Russian cities. Its hub is Saratov Central Airport in southern Russia.

The governor of the Orenburg region, where the plane was heading, told Russian media that "more than 60 people" on board the plane were from the region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered "his profound condolences to those who lost their relatives in the crash," his spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Putin also cancelled plans to travel to Sochi to meet with Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas. Instead, the meeting will take place in Moscow.

Local media website Ural56.ru in the Orenburg region showed footage of distressed relatives at Orsk airport, where the plane had been due to land.

Andrei Odintsov, the mayor of Orsk, told Russian state television that six psychologists and four ambulances with medics were working with the families in the small airport.

Orsk is the second biggest city in the Orenburg region, near Russia's border with Kazakhstan.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Iranian president Hassan Rouhani will arrive here on Thursday for a three-day visit during which he will discuss the "latest regional and global developments" with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders, an Iranian agency said today.

"Iranian President Hassan Rouahni will travel to India on February 15," Iranian Students' Agency (ISNA) said.

Apart from holding extensive talks with Modi and other Indian leaders on key bilateral and regional issues, the Iranian leader is also scheduled to deliver a special address at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) on Saturday.

This will be the first visit by Rouhani, who is the seventh President of Iran, after taking charge in August 2013.

During the meetings, Rouhani and Indian leaders will discuss, "the latest regional and global developments and the finalisation and exploitation of Chabahar port as soon as possible that can be very effective for bilateral trade in the region and mutual access of Afghanistan to regional and international markets", according to the media report.

During Modi's bilateral visit to Iran in 2016, nearly a dozen pacts were signed between the two countries.

The Trilateral Transit Agreement (Chabahar Agreement) was also signed by the three transport ministers of India, Iran and Afghanistan in the presence of Modi, Rouhani and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. The contract entails capital investment of USD 85 million by India for equipping the Chabahar port in southeastern Iran.

The strategically important port will open up the transit route for India to Iran and Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan.

India and Iran have robust economic and commercial ties covering many sectors though it has traditionally been dominated by Indian import of Iranian crude oil and the country continued to engage with Iran at the time of sanctions.

According to the external affairs ministry, India-Iran bilateral trade during the fiscal year 2016-17 was USD 12.89 billion. India imported USD 10.5 billion worth of goods mainly crude oil and exported commodities worth USD 2.4 billion.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Leading academics and rights activists demanded action from Iran's government today following the alleged "suicide" of a revered environmentalist in prison.

The family of Kavous Seyed Emami, 63, a renowned professor at Imam Sadegh University and founder of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, was told on Friday that he had killed himself in prison two weeks after his arrest.

A judiciary official claimed yesterday that he had confessed to crimes related to an espionage investigation, which has seen seven other members of his wildlife NGO placed in detention.

The incident prompted Iranian rights activist Emadeddin Baghi, who has been jailed several times, to express regret over his failure to speak up about prison abuses in the past.

"When I heard this I felt guilty because, in order to prevent it being exploited by Iran's enemies... I refused to reveal the bad treatment I had experienced during my detention," Baghi wrote on his Telegram channel.

"If we had all spoken out, it would be known why such catastrophes happen in prisons," he added.

A group of four academic societies, representing some of Iran's top universities, wrote an open letter to President Hassan Rouhani, demanding "immediate and effective action to seriously investigate the case... and make the institutions involved in this painful loss accountable".

"In addition to being a well-known professor, a distinguished scientist and war veteran... he was a noble and ethical human being," they wrote in the letter.

"The and rumours related to his arrest and death are not believable."



One of Rouhani's closest advisors, Hesameddin Ashena, tweeted later that the judiciary, which is dominated by conservatives and has clashed with his moderate government in the past, should be more closely supervised.

"Judges, prosecutors, officers, interrogators are neither infallible, nor faultless or free from prejudice," Ashena wrote.

"Just as it is necessary to supervise the executive branch, it is necessary to supervise their dealings with defendants.

"One Mortazavi was enough for the country, let's not have another one," he added, referring to notorious former Tehran prosecutor Said Mortazavi, who was convicted over the death of a protester in custody during mass demonstrations in 2009.

Asked about Emami's case today, judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejeie told the reformist ILNA agency: "I have heard he committed suicide but I have so far no information on the details. This recent incident is under investigation."



Separately, the Environment Protection Organisation (EPO) denied rumours that its deputy head Kaveh Madani had been arrested.

A senior official at the EPO, who did not wish to be named, told AFP today that this was incorrect and that Madani was at work.

A tweet was published on Madani's personal Twitter account early today for the first time in three days.

"Hopeful for narrow-mindedness to get wiped out. Hopeful for peace of mind for environmental activists. Hopeful for the removal of concern of those awaiting the return of loved ones," it read.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Iraq needs USD 88.2 billion to rebuild after three years of war against the Islamic State group, Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili said today at an international conference on the country's reconstruction in Kuwait.

The estimate was based on an assessment study by Iraqi and international experts, the minister told the opening session of the three-day conference.

Qusai Abdelfattah, director general at the planning ministry, said USD 22 billion of those funds were needed immediately and the rest for the medium term.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An Iraqi interior ministry official said the Islamic State group's head Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is alive and being treated at a field hospital in Syria after being wounded in an air strike.

"We have irrefutable information and documents from sources within the terrorist organisation that al-Baghdadi is still alive and hiding" in Syria's northeastern Jazira region, said intelligence and counterterrorism department head Abu Ali al-Basri, quoted today in the government daily As-Sabah.

IS retains a significant presence in the desert plains of northeastern Syria's Hasakeh province despite having lost most of its cross-border "caliphate" which once also covered a third of neighbouring Iraq.

Basri said that Baghdadi was suffering from "injuries, diabetes and fractures to the body and legs that prevent him from walking without assistance".

The jihadist chief had been wounded in "air raids against IS strongholds in Iraq".

Iraqi authorities last week published a list of "internationally wanted terrorist leaders" headed by the self-proclaimed IS "caliph", born in 1971, under the name Ibrahim Awad Ibrahim Ali al-Badri al-Samarrai.

Last June, Russia said it had probably killed Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in a late May air raid near Raqa in Syria, but later said it was still trying to verify his fate.

In September, an American military chief said the jihadist chief was still alive and probably hiding in eastern Syria's Euphrates Valley.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The elusive ISIS leader was wounded in an airstrike in May last year and had to relinquish control of the dreaded terror group for up to five months, according to a media report on Wednesday.

Citing several US officials, CNN reported that American intelligence agencies have assessed with a high degree of confidence that the world's most wanted man was near Raqqa, Syria in May when the missile struck.

Their assessment is based on reports from ISIS detainees and refugees in Northern Syria that emerged months after the airstrike, the officials added.

Baghdadi's injuries were not considered life-threatening but they did mean he could not continue to command the daily operations of the group, the report said.

At the time, ISIS was about to lose control of the Iraqi city of Mosul and its so-called capital Raqqa had been nearly encircled by US-backed forces.

It is unclear whether Baghdadi was hit in a targeted attack or if he was "collateral damage," the report said.

It is also unclear who fired the missile. US officials do not know the exact date of the strike so are unsure if a Coalition aircraft was involved, or whether Baghdadi's injury was the result of a Russian missile.

"There have been isolated strikes by Russians in Raqqa, but as there's no timeline for it, we don't know if it's ours," a US official said.

It is believed the airstrike occurred close to the date offered by the Russian military in June when they claimed to have killed or injured the ISIS leader.

At the time, Russia's Defense Ministry said it was investigating reports Baghdadi had been killed in an airstrike on May 28, on the outskirts of Raqqa, the group's primary stronghold, which US-backed forces took back in October.

Analysts warned at the time reports of Baghdadi's death should be treated with skepticism given the high number of previous false reports.

Baghdadi has made only one public appearance, in July 2014, in the al-Nuri Mosque in Mosul, which was retaken by Iraqi security forces in June last year.

ISIS has since released various audio messages it claims to be of Baghdadi, most recently in September last year which appeared to contain reference to news events that showed it had been recorded since the Russian claims of his death.

The US-backed campaign is now focusing on the remaining pocket of territory controlled by ISIS -- the stretch of desert along the Syrian-Iraqi border, known as Jazeera.

Various reports have suggested to US intelligence that this is where Baghdadi would most likely be, although it is a vast and sparsely populated area, making his capture complex, the CNN report said.Israel has accused Turkey of helping the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas to gain in military strength, following its arrest and deportation of a Turkish citizen.

The Shin Bet intelligence agency said yesterday the movement's "economic and military activity in Turkey takes place unhindered as Turkish officials turn a blind eye and -- on occasion -- encourage it".

"This activity relies on -- inter alia -- business platforms that serve Hamas in laundering funds that are transferred to Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) and used in recruiting Israelis to its ranks," it said.

Shin Bet said Turkish national Cemil Tekeli was arrested on January 1 on suspicion of aiding Hamas and later deported.

His alleged accomplice, Dharam Jabarin, an Arab Israeli, had also been arrested and is to be put on trial, the agency said.

"In Tekeli's investigation, it was learned that Turkey contributes to the military strengthening of Hamas," according to Shin Bet, which said the movement had laundered millions of dollars through Turkey.

Turkey has condemned a US decision to put the head of Hamas, which rules Gaza, on its terror blacklist, saying it hoped the move would not have a negative impact on Ankara's humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territory.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today passed the 37th Constitutional Amendment Bill 2018 to hike the salaries of the chief justice and judges of the high court in the state.

The salary of the chief justice has been raised from Rs 90,000 to Rs 2.50 lakh and that of the judges from Rs 80,000 to Rs 2.25 lakh.

Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Law and Justice, Abdul Haq Khan, who moved the bill in the House, said Parliament has amended High Court and Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act 1954, thereby revising the salary, pension and family pension in respect of judges of high courts with effect from January 1, 2016.

"By enacting High Court and Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Condition of Service) Amendment Act, 2018, the salary of the chief justice of the J-K High Court has been enhanced from Rs 90,000 per mensem to Rs 2.50 lakh per mensem and salary of judges has been enhanced from Rs 80,000 per mensem to Rs 2.25 lakh per mensem with effect from January 1, 2016," he said



The minister said the bill seeks to enhance the salary of chief justice and judges of the high court to bring them at par with their counterparts in other states.

The state constitution is proposed to be amended accordingly, he said.

The Bill was later also passed by the Legislative Council.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two days after the pre-dawn audacious terror strike at the military camp here, the Jammu and Kashmir Police will conduct raids on shops selling Army uniforms and clothes in Rajouri district of the state.

On Saturday, three uniformed Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists attacked the Sunjuwan Military camp here, killing five Army men and a civilian.

"All the station house officers (SHOs) and deputy superintendent of police are directed to hold meeting with local executive magistrates tomorrow morning.

"In their presence, the police is asked to raid all the shops and establishments selling Army uniforms and clothes as well as allied material," Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajouri, Yougal Manhas, said in an advisory.

He said establishments without having requisite permissions will be seized immediately.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jammu High Court lawyers today abstained from judicial work and staged a protest against Pakistan following the terror attack on an Army camp here on Saturday.

The strike was called by the Jammu Bar Association (JBA).

The JBA also took out a procession in the court's premises and shouted slogans against Pakistan and anti- national forces responsible for the attack, an association spokesman said.

On Saturday, a group of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists struck an Army camp at Sunjuwan along Jammu-Pathankote bypass, killing five soldiers and a civilian besides leaving 10 others including six women and children injured.

Three terrorists were also killed in the retaliatory action by the Army.

The spokesman said that the association would continue its protesttomorrowas well.

"We strongly condemn Pakistan for carrying on the policy of enmity against India and harbouring terrorists on its soil and using them to threaten life of the people and security forces in the state," JBA president B S Slathia said.

Slathia accused the state government of its "failure" in saving the lives and liberty of the people and security forces in the state.

He said the attack on the Army camp was not possible without the support of some sleeper cells.

"The government has facilitated such elements to make their foot hold in Jammu and it is sure to pose a serious threat to the security of people in the future also," Slathia said.

The JBA president condemned the role of National Conference legislator Mohammad Akbar Lone for raising pro- Pakistan slogans inside the assemblyon Saturday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Jammu and Kashmir government said today that an advisory have been issued to district and divisional administration in Kashmir to ensure the safety of all temples and shrines of displaced Kashmiri Hindus.

Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Nabi Hanjura, today assured the Upper House that the state government was committed to safeguarding and securing the shrines and temples in the state.

He said an advisory have been passed to district and divisional administrations to ensure the safety of all religious places of the Kashmiri Pandits.

The minister was responding to a calling attention notice by BJP MLC Girdari Lal Raina in the Legislative Council.

The minister informed the House that a majority of the Hindu Shrines and temples were being administered and managed by the Mahants, Pujaris and their successors.

He said there was no official mechanism in place for the protection, regulation, and management of the Hindu shrines and temples in the Kashmir valley.

"However, a few are under the administrative control of the Dharmarth Trust and Amarnath Shrine Board," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)JNU Students' Union has announced that it will hold a protest march to the Ministry of Human Resource Development here on Thursday, demanding the removal of the varsity's Vice Chancellor M Jagadesh Kumar.

Though the students have held various protests and online campaigns using the hashtag "#notourvc" inside the campus, this is the first time a demand for removal of the Vice Chancellor will be raised outside the campus.

"Our principal demand would be the removal of the VC from his office," JNUSU Joint Secretary Shubhanshu Singh told PTI.

Ever since the announcement of compulsory attendance, the students have been resorting to various ways of protest against the university establishment.

The stand-off between students and the Vice Chancellor escalated on February 8 when the administration made 75 per cent attendance mandatory for availing scholarships and fellowships.

For the last three days, scores of students have been organising strikes, human chains and holding demonstrations near the administration block, breaking the Delhi High Court 100-metre order.

Meanwhile, the administration today issued circulars to all members of the Academic Council announcing the decision to postpone council meeting indefinitely initially scheduled for February 23.

"Due to unavoidable circumstances, the Academic Council meeting which was to be held on February 23 will be rescheduled," the circular signed by Registrar Pramod Kumar said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and all cabinet ministers will take questions and feedback from people through social media and phone calls on Wednesday to mark the third anniversary of the Aam Aadmi Party Government.

The ministers along with the chief minister will also highlight the achievements of the AAP government at a programme to be hosted at the NDMC Convention Centre here, an official said today.

According to the government, people can ask questions from any of the ministers at 011-23348334 and cmdelhi@nic.in. Besides, they can also post their queries on the chief minister's Facebook account and Twitter from 12 noon to 1 pm.

The official said that as per the schedule, all AAP ministers will list achievements of their respective departments for an hour from 11 am to 12 noon on that day.

"The chief minister and all ministers will take questions from people and also hear their suggestions through social media and phone calls for an hour on February 14," the official said.

At the programme, all AAP MLAs will also be present there.

On the first anniversary of the government, the AAP dispensation had organised a similar programme where all cabinet ministers had interacted with people through phone calls and social media.

Yesterday, the Aam Aadmi Party had organised a 'Vikas Yatra' in all 70 Assembly constituencies of Delhi to highlight the "good work" done by the Kejriwal government, as part of events to mark its three years in power.

All ministers and MLAs interacted with the people in their respective constituencies and apprised them of the works done by the AAP dispensation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), that provides free from kindergarten to Post-graduation to 37,000 tribal students in Odisha, would run a similar centre in Kolkata for poor children.

The KISS has entered into an agreement with a Kolkata based NGO to run the centre in the Eastern metropolis from the academic session of 2019.

Declared a Deemed to be University by the Union Human Resource Development ministry in August last year, the KISS has become the first tribal university in the world.

"We have signed an MoU with a NGO (Help us to Help them) to run a centre like the KISS in Kolkata," Achyuta Samanta, founder of KISS told reporters here last night.

"The centre to come up in Joka area would start functioning with 1000 children," Samanta who also founded the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KITT) said.

Samanta said not only tribal but other poor children would be enrolled in the Kolkata centre for free to bring them in the mainstream.

Besides the one in Bhubaneswar, the KISS also runs a centre for 600 street children in Delhi.

"We also plan to open such centres in Bihar and Jharkhand among others," the KISS founder said.

Founded in Bhubaneswar in 1992-93 to wean away tribals from naxal influence in Odisha, the KISS has 27,000 students. Besides, 10,000 of its alumni also stay in its facilities.

"The KISS provides poor tribal students free food, lodging and from KG to PG. We also provide them jobs after completion of education," he said.

Asked about sourcing of funds to run such a mammoth institution, Samanta said a portion it comes from KITT's turnover and contribution from employees, sale of products made by KISS students of vocational training courses and from donation from donation.

KISS founder Samanta was honoured with the top civilian award of Kingdom of Bahrain called 'Isa award for Service to Humanity' in 2015 and 'Gusi peace prize 'International', considered as "Noble Prize of Asia" for social work a year back in 2014.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today claimed that he knew "from the very beginning" that his alliance with Lalu Prasad's RJD "would not last for more than a year-and-a-half", but he did his best to carry on in the Grand Alliance, which ultimately disintegrated last year.

The Grand Alliance ministry, headed by Kumar, collapsed in July last year after the chief minister resigned over graft charge against his then deputy, Tejashwi Yadav.

Subsequently, Kumar joined hands with the BJP to form another coalition government in Bihar.

"The very day the Mahagathbandhan government was installed, I had said to those close to me that this was not going to last for more than a year-and-a-half. I knew it from the very beginning. I still managed to carry on for 20 months," the JD(U) chief told reporters here on the sidelines of his weekly "Lok Samvad" (public interaction) programme.

He said this while reacting to the allegations of "betrayal of mandate", levelled against him by the RJD and the Congress -- the two other constituents of the erstwhile "Mahagathbandhan".

The Grand Alliance was formed shortly after the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when Kumar and Prasad decided to bury the hatchet.

Both the JD(U) and the RJD had suffered a severe drubbing in the Parliamentary election, which saw the BJP putting up its best ever electoral performance, riding on a strong wave in favour of Narendra Modi.

However, Kumar's statement drew flak from former JD(U) president Sharad Yadav, who had raised a banner of revolt when the Bihar chief minister joined hands with the BJP.

"If he (Kumar) knew that the alliance was not going to last, why did he agree for such a tie-up in the first place. It is an illogical thing to say. He is suffering from pangs of guilt for his volte face and trying to justify his actions by such utterances," Yadav told a TV channel in Delhi.

Yadav was disqualified from the Rajya Sabha a couple of months ago, following an application by the JD(U), which had held that the former party president's presence at rallies and meetings organised by the RJD-Congress combine were tantamount to his having "voluntary renounced" the membership of the party.

Reacting to Kumar's statement, Tejashwi Yadav tweeted, saying, "This is what I have been saying since the beginning that Tejashwi was just an excuse. Paltu chacha (turncoat uncle) had vicious plans beforehand."



"The respected 67-year-old should be ashamed that he made a 28-year-old an excuse for his shenanigans. Uncle, you could have parted ways like a man," Yadav, who is the younger son of Lalu Prasad, said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Fintech major Lendingkart Technologies today said it has raised over USD 87 million (Rs 565 crore) in equity funding, led by Singapore's Fullerton Financial Holdings (FFH).

Existing investors also participated in the latest round of the funding.

With this, Lendingkart Group's cumulative equity and debt raising will exceed USD 173 million (Rs 1,129 crore), of which USD 114 million was through equity route.

"The funds from this round will be used to further strengthen our technological and analytics capabilities," Lendingkart Technologies co-founder and CEO Harshvardhan Lunia told PTI.

He added that the company also plans to expand its credit product offerings to deepen its reach to small enterprises.

"We are pleased to collaborate with Fullerton as they bring deep domain experience... We look forward to leveraging their insights as we build a leading platform for digital lending in India," he said.

GAN Chee Yen, CEO of FFH, said the deployment of technology to develop scalable and accessible financial services platforms, incorporating big data analytics and machine learning, will be critical to any lending business serving the underbanked and underserved customers in India.

"We are committed to supporting Lendingkart Group on its journey to become a leading digital lender in India," he added.

FFH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Temasek.

Credit Suisse acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Lendingkart Technologies.

Lendingkart Group has also signed a memorandum of understanding with Fullerton India Capital Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of FFH. This will provide both parties opportunities to collaborate on initiatives that complement their respective credit businesses, Lunia said.

Since its inception, Lendingkart Finance (the NBFC arm of Lendingkart Group) has evaluated more than one lakh applications, disbursed over 20,000 loans in more than 950 cities helping more than 13,000 SMEs.

Lendingkart uses technology tools based on big data analytics and machine learning algorithms to evaluate creditworthiness.

Thousands of data points are used to assess factors like financial health, comparative market performance, social reliability and compliance and disburse loans.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Up to 16,000 passengers were today hit as all flights at the London City Airport were cancelled for the day after a 500-kg World War II bomb was found nearby in river Thames, officials said.

The bomb was found at George V Dock yesterday during planned work at the east London airport, the Metropolitan Police service said.

The airport was shut at 22:00 GMT yesterday and the police said it was working with the Royal Navy to remove the bomb.

The airport will be shut all day and all flights are cancelled, affecting up to 16,000 passengers, a spokeswoman said.

Robert Sinclair, the chief executive officer of the airport said All flights in and out of London city today are cancelled and an exclusion zone is in place in the immediate area.

"I urge any passengers due to fly today not to come to the airport and to contact their airline for further information," he said in a statement.

"I recognise this is causing inconvenience for our passengers, and in particular some of our local residents. The airport is cooperating fully with the Met Police and Royal Navy and working hard to safely remove the device and resolve the situation as quickly as possible," he added.

Families in the area were evacuated with the exclusion zone set to be widened when specialists begin removing the device.

"The timing of removal is dependant on the tides, however, at this stage we estimate that the removal of the device from location will be completed by tomorrow morning," a statement issued by the Met Police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Maharashtra government on Monday told the Supreme Court the statements of four judges, who were with special CBI judge B H Loya on the last day of his life, and had termed his death as "natural", were "unimpeachable".

Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, had died allegedly of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter.

"According to me, statements of four judges (J Kulkarni, J Barde, J Modak and J R R Rathi) are unimpeachable that the death of Loya was natural and unfortunate.

"The judges were with Loya since November 29 to December 1, 2014. The statements were signed by the judges. Are not they trustworthy?" senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Maharashtra, told a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra.

"If you (the court) want to reject the statements of the judges who said that Loya's death was natural, then it has to be prima facie accepted that they were co-conspirators...," he told the bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud.

Referring to judgements on public interest litigations (PILs), he said the apex court amended its rules and laid down guidelines as to who can file PILs to ensure that motivated petitions are discouraged and not entertained.

Alleging that petitioners were "creating castle in the air", Rohatgi said the PILs cannot be based on unconfirmed and "hearsay" media reports solely, and the courts should verify the credentials of such petitioners.

Referring to contents of petitions, including those filed by Congress leader Tehseen Poonawala and journalist B S Lone, Rohatgi said they had only relied upon unconfirmed news reports, published November last year onwards, and filed PILs without any further detail and they "are now arguing as if these are murder appeals".

"Nobody, including PIL petitioners, did anything for last three years and now they have come out of slumber. They are saying that they want to protect the judiciary. However, they are standing for scandalising the judiciary," Rohatgi said.

"All the petitioners did not do anything on their own. This is just 'cut-and-paste' job. There was nothing amiss. The state is fully satisfied. It would be appropriate to bring the curtains down," he said.

Attributing motive on the petitioners, Rohatgi said press conferences are being held because the judge concerned was hearing a criminal matter in which a political figure was then accused.

"None of them (petitioners) had the courage to read the statements of judges who were with the judge (Loya) like shadow and are the eyewitness of the events," he said, seeking the case to be closed, unless "the court holds the judges co- conspirators".

The judges had given the statements after Police Commissioner (Intelligence) sought permission from the High Court Chief Justice, he said.

Some High Court judges, including the then chief justice, had also reached the hospital, he said.

About the petition of the Bombay Lawyers Association seeking an independent probe in Loya's death, he said that the list of its members, bye-laws and registration number were not attached.

"These things are not required in a PIL," senior advocate Dushyant Dave, appearing for the bar body, said.

"You have argued Mr Dave. Let me argue... I am not here to have a conversation with you (Dave)," Rohatgi said, adding that the judge had died in their state (Maharashtra). If they had so much information, why no petition was filed in the last three years.

On the statement of one of the four judges Rathi that ECG was not done on Loya, Rohatgi said judges are laymen so far as medical issues are concerned and reiterated that the ECG was done on the judge at Dande hospital on December 1.

As the Judge was declared "dead on arrival", the doctors at Meditrina Hospital referred the body for post mortem and there was nothing amiss, he said.

Dave informed the bench that his application, seeking examination of 11 people, including two judges and four family members of Loya, has not been accepted by the apex court registry.

Rohatgi would resume arguments on February 16.

Earlier, the state government had opposed the pleas for an independent probe into Loya's death, terming them as "motivated" and based on "yellow journalism".

Senior advocate Indira Jaising, appearing for an intervenor, had referred to the sequence of events to highlight her submission that a probe was needed to rule out any foul play and alleged a trial court judge in the Sohrabuddin case was transferred in a "tearing hurry".

The bench is hearing pleas including those filed by Congress leader Tehseen Poonawala and Maharashtra-based B S Lone seeking an independent probe into Loya's death in 2014.

Current BJP president Amit Shah was an accused in the Soharabuddin Shaikh case, but was later discharged.Maldives declaring emergency is credit negative for the sovereign as it undermines the rule of law and will reduce tourist arrivals, Moody's Investors Service said today, warning of a prolonged crisis affecting investments.

The Maldives government last Monday declared a 15-day state of emergency, which will prevent the release of nine imprisoned opposition figures.

This is the latest in a series of attempts to prevent the unseating of President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.

"Similar events could become increasingly common with the coming presidential elections in September," Moody's said in a statement.

The declaration of emergency "is credit negative for the sovereign because it undermines the rule of law by overriding for apparent political considerations a decision by the judiciary", it said.

Heightened political tensions will reduce tourist arrivals, a key driver of the economy, it said. "A prolonged crisis will reduce investment inflows and impede the running of fiscal policy, exacerbating both fiscal and external pressures."



Since the first multiparty elections in 2008, Maldives has witnessed frequent incidences of violence, alleged coup attempts and a high degree of polarisation.

"The most recent incident followed a Supreme Court ruling that revoked terrorism charges against opposition members, including exiled former president Mohammed Nasheed, and called for their release," Moody's said.

The state of emergency thwarts this ruling, which was reversed a day after the state of emergency declaration.

Moody's said an immediate effect of political developments will be on tourist arrivals.

"Some countries, notably India, China, Singapore and the UK, already have issued travel advisories recommending avoidance of all but essential travel to Maldives. The US since January has had Maldives on a Level 2 travel advisory, which recommends that tourists exercise caution owing to terrorism risks," it said.

In 2017, tourist arrivals increased 8 per cent. More than 44 per cent of total tourist arrivals in 2017 were from Asia, with Chinese tourists accounting for 22 per cent of the total.

"If tourists are deterred from travelling to Maldives for a prolonged period, the crisis will reduce growth and prompt us to revise down our current forecasts of 4.5 per cent real GDP growth in 2018," Moody's said.

Tourism accounts for one-third of economic output.

During a state of emergency in 2015, growth slowed to 2.8 per cent from 6 per cent in the previous year, amid a slowdown in tourist arrivals growth to 2.4 per cent from 7.1 per cent the previous year.

Besides economic cost, a political crisis if accompanied by human rights violations risks disrupting funding from multilateral and bilateral lenders, Moody's said adding tighter financing of government debt would be particularly credit negative.

Maldives' debt burden is estimated at 62.8 per cent of GDP in 2017.

"Escalating political tensions also will hinder Maldives' attractiveness as an investment destination," it said adding net foreign direct investment plays an important role in financing Maldives' large current account deficit of 21.7 per cent of GDP in 2017.

FDI in 2017 totalled USD 484.5 million, or 10.4 per cent of GDP.

Moody's said a substantial portion of this financing is likely directed toward the tourism industry and "an unstable security environment risks reducing future inflows".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today "requested" Alfred Ford, the great grand son of Henry Ford, to consider setting up a manufacturing unit of Ford Motor Company in the state.

She said Ford has stated that he will "look into" the request.

The chief minister made a pitch for the unit while she came to the Mayapur ISKCON temple in Nadia district, where she was greeted by Alfred Ford, the great grandson of Henry Ford, the founder of the US auto major.

"I have requested Mr Ford (Alfred Ford) to plan a new manufacturing unit here in West Bengal. They have one in Chennai. He said he will look into it," Banerjee said.

Asked whether he would consider her request, Alfred Ford, whose initiated name is Ambarish Dasa, told PTI, "I have told her that I really do not have very much to do with that anymore, but I will put in a word for her."



Ford India Pvt Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ford Motor Company, has an integrated manufacturing plant in Maraimalai Nagar near Chennai in Tamil Nadu.

The facility has an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles and 340,000 engines.

It was the first visit to the Mayapur ISKON temple by any chief minister of the state.

Ford meanwhile sought help from the Chief Minister for making the ISKCON Mayapur a world heritage centre.

"We will surely help them in that. I am so happy to coming here," Banerjee said.

She later said in a tweet that ISKON Mayapur will definitely be a new landmark in the religious tourism destination, not only in the state and the country, but also in the world.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A man was arrested today for allegedly posting pictures of Kerala Minister K T Jaleel morphed in an obscene manner on the social media, police said here.

The man, identified as Shameer Parapadan, a native of the state, was arrested by the Cyber Crime police when he arrived from abroad at the international airport in Kochi early this morning, police said.

Later, he was released on bail, police added.

A complaint had been filed against him for allegedly morphing the pictures of Jaleel and circulating obscene photos through the Whatsapp recently.

Jaleel, a CPI-M independent MLA representing Thavanoor constituency in Malappuram district, is the minister for Local Administration.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Several companies from China are willing to invest in India and the number would go up in the coming days, Chinese Consul General in Kolkata, Ma Zhanwu said today.

Many of these companies were start-ups, Zhanwu told reporters on the sidelines of a cultural programme here.

The Chinese Consul General said in West Bengal, the firms have evinced investment interest in fields like agriculture, food processing, manufacturing, IT and the services industry.

To another question about how China viewed the 'Look East' policy of the government, Zhanwu said, "I understand the Central government in India as well as different state governments are very keen in developing economy, especially infrastructure."



There is a lot that India and China can do together in this regard, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Mata Amritanandamayi Mutt has donated Rs two crore to Cyclone Ockhi relief fund.

A cheque for the amount was handed over by Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, Vice-Chairman of the Mutt, to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at his office here today, a mutt press release said.

Immediately following the disaster, volunteers of the Mutt had set up food relief camps for widows and hundreds of affected families, at times working in collaboration with local churches.

Free treatment for the injured was also offered at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences in Kochi, the release said.

The Mutt and its worldwide counterpart 'Embracing the World,' has contributed over Rs 475 crore in disaster relief since 2005, coming to the aid of victims of such tragedies as the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, the Chennai floods of 2015, the Uttarakhand flash-flooding of 2013, the Japan earthquake/ Tsunami of 2011, and the US hurricanes of 2005.

Cyclone Ockhi hit the Kerala coast in November 29-30 last year in the southern districts of the state, claiming several lives.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Attacking the BJP, BSP chief Mayawati alleged today that the killing of a Dalit student in Allahabad was the result of narrow and casteist politics of hatred being pursued by the state's ruling party.

"The barbaric murder of a Dalit student in Allahabad is not an isolated case as such incidents are occurring on a regular basis. And no one else but the BJP's narrow, casteist politics of hatred is responsible for it," she said in a press release here.

Mayawati said that such incidents had vitiated the atmosphere in the country and the youth were experiencing frustration because of dearth of jobs for the educated ones among the 'sarv samaj'. There is also an increase in crime, she added.

The BSP chief, who sent her state unit chief Ram Achal Rajbhar to meet the bereaved family in Allahabad, asked the state government to ensure the immediate arrest of the culprits and help to the family.

A second year LLB student Dileep, 26, was thrashed by a group on Friday following an altercation outside a restaurant leading to his death two days later.

One of the accused was arrested after CCTV footage of the incident went viral on social media.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Meghalaya Speaker and Congress candidate Abu Taher Mondal has filed a police complaint against Facebook users who have allegedly taken potshots at him, in the run up to the Assembly polls on February 27.

Mondal is in the fray for Phulbari seat against Binoy Ghosh of BJP, SG Esmatur Mominin of the NPP and independent candidate, Mark Goera Marak.

Some Facebook users have been allegedly spreading defamatory statements against the Speaker, accusing him of stealing CGI sheets meant for distribution by the Housing Board.

"They are trying to influence voters through accusations and it is not fair. I have reported the matter to the police on Saturday and hopefully those behind it will be caught and given due punishment," said Mondal when contacted.

West Garo Hills superintendent of police Dr MGR Kumar said a magisterial inquiry is currently on and the matter has been referred to a court.

"We have also sought details from Facebook about the accounts and its holders after which legal action will be taken," said Dr Kumar.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today pitched afresh for a dialogue between India and Pakistan to end the violence in the restive state, even as a gunfight raged between terrorists and security forces in Srinagar.

The chief minister also hit out at some media houses, which, she claimed, have created an atmosphere in which the very talk of talks was considered anti-national.

"If Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti say hold talks with Pakistan, they are dubbed anti-national. There is no alternative (to resolve the issue) except by holding talks," Mehbooba told the state Assembly in Jammu on the concluding day of the budget session.

"If we (the Kashmiris) don't talk about it (dialogue), who will? Not a Bihari, not a punjabi," she said.

A CRPF constable was killed in a gunfight with terrorists in downtown Srinagar after security forces foiled militants' attempts to strike a CRPF camp. The mllitants were still holed up in an abandoned house in Karan Nagar in the heart of the city where intermittent firing was on.

Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, meanwhile, has claimed responsibility for the attack on the CRPF camp. Its Kashmir chief Mehmood Shah claimed in an e-mailed statement that the attack was perpetrated by its activists.

The heavily-armed militants tried to strike the CRPF camp, located very close to SMHS Hospital from where Lashkar- e-Taiba militant Naveed Jutt alias Abu Hanzala was freed from police custody by terrorists on February 6.

The incident comes two days after Jaish-e-Mohammad militants attacked an Army camp in Sunjwan area of Jammu, killing six people including five soldiers. Three militants were also killed in retaliation by the Army.

"The search operation is still on (at the camp)," Jammu- based Army public relations officer Lt Col Devender Anand told PTI.

India and Pakistan, Mehbooba told the House, have fought three wars but the Kashmir problem has been been resolved.

"We have fought three wars in 1947, 1965 and 1971 and have won all of them, even Kargil war, but our basic problem has not been resolved," she said, insisting a solution to the Kashmir question lay in talks alone.

Noting that Kashmiris were losing lives on the borders and in hinterland, civilians or security personnel, she said she was happy that both the opposition and the ruling parties in the state favoured dialogue for conflict resolution.

She assailed "some tv channels" for vitiating the atmosphere in the state.

"There are some media houses that have created an atmosphere where even talking about talks has become anti- national. They hold worst debates with polarised mindset. They bring people from Kashmir who are not even known in their own colonies.

"They always speak anti-India. They are picked up because they use unparliamentary and bad language, particularly against India, and same type of people are picked from the other side to reply to them," Mehbooba said.

Recalling her father, the late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, she said the former chief minister always favoured dialogue as a tool to strengthen democracy, which, he felt, was a battle of ideas.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress today accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of insulting his predecessors and India's achievements since independence during his visits abroad, saying it does not bode well for the country.

Congress' senior spokesperson Anand Sharma alleged that Modi was "misusing" state machinery for his personal promotion during his foreign visits and demanded that he and his government come clean on the charge.

Modi should not berate his predecessors, previous governments nor insult the great achievements of the Indian nation and the Indian people before he became the Prime Minister of the Indian Republic, Sharma said.

"His thinking, his mindset is authoritarian. This is undemocratic and it bodes ill for the country. I have said so and I need not repeat that government's resources have throughout been misused in the past for organising mega event shows," he said, citing prime minister's events abroad such as the ones held in Madison Square in New York or the Wembley Stadium in London.

Sharma cited a letter purportedly written by Indian Ambassador to Oman Indra Mani Pandey to Indian businessmen, seeking their support to ensure the success of a mega Indian diaspora event during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Muscat.

Sharma said that, in the letter, Pandey had asked the businessmen to ensure the presence of Indians employed by them at the event.

"The prime minister true to his characteristic style continues to insult history and India's achievements since independence. He prefers to live in his make-belief world and in the past," he said.

Taking a dig at the Congress, Modi, while addressing the Indian diaspora in Oman's capital had said yesterday that India's image had suffered due to a long list of scams in the previous regime and his government worked hard to change the "style of misgovernance".

Sharma said that Modi was using the same phrases and allegations, which he did more than four years ago when he started his campaign to capture power and become the prime minister.

"We condemn what he has said and reject the falsehoods that he has hurled," he told reporters.

The former minister said after four years of being in power, "Our advice to the Prime Minister is -- learn to live in the present, give an account of the present and think about the future of this country".

Sharma said that in 2013 and 2014, people of India heard enough from Modi and a substantial section of them were misled into believing that he is going to bring about the golden age of this country, bring about a revolutionary transformation in the economy and job creation while also getting India recognition as a major power of the world.

Sharma said Modi had "failed" when it came to delivering on his promises.

"He stands exposed because of his betrayal of promises, non-deliverance among the people of the country and that is why now he is busy sending a message to the Indian electorate by organising government-sponsored, government-supported events of Indian community," he said.

Sharma said Modi is giving an impression that he is "so popular" and that all Indians living abroad line up to cheer him.

"This is not a good sign at all," he said.

The Congress alleged that on Prime Minister Modi's behest, the Indian envoy in Oman wrote the letter to Indian businesses in Muscat informing them of the government- sponsored event and asking them to bring at least 80 per cent "blue-collared workers".

"This is unbecoming of the the prime minister," Sharma said.

Sharma said in Parliament the prime minister was reminded to come out of this mind-set and not to forget that India was already recognised as a major nuclear power, space power and a global leader in IT enabled services before the world had even heard of him.

He accused the prime minister of creating a platform through government agencies such as the Indian embassies abroad to bring people to events he addressed.

Sharma claimed that the Indian embassies gave clear directives to Indian companies to bring workers and employees and "insulted" them by saying at least 80 per cent of them should be the blue-collar workers.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 13-year-old girl's hair was cut by people from her community as part of a "purification ritual" after she was allegedly molested by a man in Chhattisgarh's Kawardha district, police said today.

The man was arrested today and a search was on for the community members who had ordered and carried out the "ritual", officials said.

The hair-cutting incident occurred on February 5 in a village under the Kukdur police station, around 75 km away from the district headquarter, Superintendent of Police, Kawardha, Lal Umed Singh told PTI.

Narrating the sequence of events, Singh said, "On January 21, the girl was molested by a person identified as Arjun Yadav (22) when she had gone to work at a construction site in the area. Following this, she informed her parents who informed the local village panchayat."



The official said that the panchayat disposed off the matter the next day by imposing a fine of Rs 5,000 on Yadav.

"However, on February 4, the Baiga Adivasi community, to which the girl belongs, convened a meeting and ostracised her family stating that their daughter had become impure due to the molestation incident," the SP said.

"The community members also ordered that the girl's hair be chopped off in order to purify her," he said, adding that the girl's hair was cut the next day.

Her family also had to organise a feast for members of the community, the SP said.

He said that when the incident came to light, a police team was sent to the village and Yadav, who was accused of molestation, was arrested.

"At least 10 people, including three women, who were involvedin chopping off the girl's hair, are at large and efforts are on to trace them," the officer said.

He said that a case had been registered in this connection.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A former BJP MLA on Tuesday asked farmers in Madhya Pradesh to recite 'Hanuman Chalisa' to protect their crops from natural calamities like hailstorm.

Ramesh Saxena found support for his suggestion from Minister of State for Agriculture Balkrishna Patidar, who said the recitation of the devotional hymn in praise of Lord Hanuman would boost the "inner strength" of the farmers.

As rain and hailstorm in the state in the last 24 hours were learnt to damaged standing crops, the former MLA, in a video appeal, asked the farmers to recite 'Hanuman Chalisa' every day to ward off threats from calamities.

"Meteorologists are saying that a natural calamity may strike in the coming 4-5 days. There may be hailstorm and rain. There is only one solution to this-- farmers should recite 'Hanuman Chalisa' collectively in their respective villages," Saxena, a former legislator from Sehore, said in the video message that has gone viral on the social media.

When contacted, Patidar said there is nothing wrong in Saxena's message.

"There is nothing wrong in this. The recital of Hanuman Chalisa would bring relief and increase the inner strength of farmers," he told reporters.The Madhya Pradesh government has given an "in principle" nod to translocate three pairs of tigers to Odisha's Satkosia Tiger Reserve, a top officer said today.

The six tigers are likely to be translocated by March-end, as the All India Tiger Estimation (AITE) 2018 is currently underway in Madhya Pradesh.

According to the officer, the in-principle approval came after Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan agreed to the Odisha government's request for translocation of the big cats.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF), Wild Life, Jitendra Agrawal said the Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR) is currently left with only one pair of tigers, who have passed their average age.

In the last few days, only one of the big cats was captured in cameras in the STR, he said.

Acting on a letter written by the Odisha government, the National Tiger Conservation Authority's (NTCA's) technical committee in a recent meeting approved shifting of the tigers.

Later, the MP government also decided to allow the translocation, which would help in increasing the number of striped cats in the STR.

Agrawal said the genetic make-up of tigers in STR was similar to that of the big cats of the Bandhavgarh and Kanha Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.

There has been evidences of a tiger corridor between Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, he said.

"It is expected that the tigers of Madhya Pradesh would easily adopt new climate of Odisha," he said.

Agrawal furher said that before the translocation, the officials and employees would be trained in the tiger release protocol.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF), Wild Life of Odisha, Sambit Tripathi had also visited Madhya Pradesh recently in this connection.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An SBI report today said estimates of Rs 80,000 crore for implementation the proposed MSP scheme are exaggerated and emphasised that income compensation is better than waiving loans of farmers.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, while replying to Budget Speech in the Rajya Sabha last week, had said the government will take into account the actual input cost plus unpaid value of family labour while fixing the support price of crops at 50 per cent higher than the cost of production.

In the report headlined, 'Fears Regarding the MSP Scheme Are Exaggerated', the SBI Ecowrap report said there is a market perception that implementation of market compensation scheme may cost the government as much as Rs 80,000 crore, "but our estimates suggest it may be less than one fourth of this figure".

On conservative basis, the report said, the estimate shows the combined cost for wheat, paddy, bajra and maize will be less than Rs 11,500 crore.

The proposed scheme, it said, should be "judiciously monitored", adding the talks of market manipulation "as is being emphasised is not backed by data".

It further said there would be no harm if the government closely monitors the registration of the farmers under the scheme.

"It is important to at least move ahead with an income compensation scheme rather than perpetually promote a loan waiver culture for the farmers," said the SBI's research report.

The government fixes MSP of 23 commodities although it procures only wheat and paddy to supply subsidised foodgrain through ration shops under the Food Law.

At present, the government decides the MSP based on the recommendation of an expert body the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)City Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam along with party workers today staged a protest outside Mantralaya before being detained by police.

The protest, called "Pradhan Mantri Naukri Do", was organised against what the party claimed was rising unemployment in the country.

However the protesters, who planned to march to Mantralaya, were detained and brought to Azad Maidan police station, said officials.

Nirupam said, "The Modi government is killing jobs and India is becoming a country of jobless youth. While our country is adding 550 unemployed youth every day, our PM asks our youth to go and sell 'pakodas'."



He claimed that the rate of unemployment would soon touch 65 per cent, adding that the Modi government was stifling dissent by not allowing them to protest.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Chinese Embassy here today rejected former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed's allegation of "land grab" in the strategically located Maldivian islands, dubbing it as "false and groundless".

Without naming China, Nasheed, who is currently in Colombo, had accused "a large, emerging power" of "land grab" in the island and buying up its sovereignty.

Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy here Counselor Ji Rong issued a statement refuting Nasheed's remarks.

Recently, former Maldivian President Nasheed made a lot of "false remarks" in the Indian media, he said.

Nasheed "pointed fingers at the practical cooperation between China and Maldives and alleged that China engaged in so called 'land grabbing' of Maldivian islands, which undermines the security of the Indian Ocean region. These allegations are apparently groundless with no regard to facts," Ji said.

The spokesperson also said that in recent years, on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, China and Maldives have been cooperating on infrastructure and livelihood projects, which has played a "positive role" in transforming and upgrading the latter's economy and improving its people's livelihood.

"They have been widely welcomed by the Maldivian people. As a matter of fact, when Nasheed was the president, China and Maldives had already launched relevant cooperation projects. The 'land grabbing' allegation by Nasheed is apparently meant to serve certain political purposes of him," the statement said.

Nasheed, in his remarks, had said it was important to vote out President Abdulla Yameen as "a large, emerging power is busy buying up the Maldives. Buying up our islands, buying up our key infrastructure, and effectively buying up our sovereignty. This land grab is very worrying."



On the current political turmoil in Maldives, the Chinese Embassy spokesperson said China believes the current situation in Maldives is the internal matter of the country and should be properly resolved through dialogue and negotiation by various parties in the country.

"We believe the Maldivian government and people have the wisdom and ability to properly handle the problems they face and restore order in the country according to law," Ji said.

The island nation, which has seen several political crises since the ouster of Nasheed in 2012, plunged into chaos early this month when the apex court ordered the release of nine imprisoned opposition politicians, maintaining that their trials were "politically motivated and flawed".

India had earlier described as a matter of "concern" the arrests of the chief justice and political figures there.

However, earlier this week, the Supreme Court had revoked its order on the release of the opposition politicians.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said today he has been discussing legislation with the United States that would effectively annex settlements in the occupied West Bank, a spokesman said.

The move would severely damage remaining prospects for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and draw international outrage.

"Regarding the issue of applying sovereignty, I can tell you that I have for some time been speaking with the Americans about it," Netanyahu told lawmakers from his Likud party, according to comments relayed by a spokesman.

Netanyahu said he wanted to coordinate any such "historic" move with the United States because of the country's strategic importance to Israel, his spokesman said.

Some Israeli media interpreted the comments as the first time Netanyahu expressed support for annexing the settlements.

Saeb Erekat, secretary general of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, condemned the remarks as amounting to "land theft" with US complicity.

The comments come with Netanyahu under pressure from right-wing politicians to move ahead with legislation that would apply Israeli sovereignty to settlements in the West Bank.

Two lawmakers, including one from Netanyahu's party, have proposed such legislation.

Netanyahu blocked it from being advanced on Sunday, with officials citing the need to focus on security issues following a confrontation that led to Israeli air strikes in Syria at the weekend.

Unilateral annexation of settlements would be sure to draw international outrage, though Netanyahu's government has been bolstered by the unstinting support of US President Donald Trump.

Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital in December in a move praised by Netanyahu as "historic" but denounced by the Palestinians and most of the rest of the world.

But as Netanyahu's comments made headlines on Monday and US officials failed to confirm the discussions he spoke of, an Israeli official issued a clarification.

Netanyahu "did not present the United States with specific annexation proposals, and in any case the United States did not give its consent to the proposals", the official said on condition of anonymity.

"Israel updated the United States on various proposals raised in the (parliament), and the United States expressed its clear position that it seeks to advance President Trump's peace plan."



The official added that Netanyahu's position "is that if the Palestinians persist in their refusal to negotiate peace, Israel will present its own alternatives".

While Israel would expect to retain certain settlements in any two-state peace deal, longstanding international consensus has been that their status must be negotiated.

The same consensus has been in place for decades regarding the status of Jerusalem, with the Palestinians wanting the Israeli-annexed eastern sector of the city as the capital of their future state.

Israeli settlements are located in what is known as Area C of the West Bank, which accounts for more than 60 percent of the Palestinian territory.

Annexing all settlements would leave little space for a Palestinian state.

Netanyahu heads what is seen as the most right-wing government in Israeli history, and prominent ministers openly oppose a Palestinian state.

Those who oppose a Palestinian state advocate for Israel to annex most of the West Bank, citing Jews' historical ties to the land from the biblical era.

Netanyahu says he wants the Palestinians to govern themselves, but in recent months has declined to specify whether that would mean an independent Palestinian state or some lesser form of autonomy.

He has stressed recently that Israel must retain security control in the Palestinian territories under any peace arrangement.

While Trump has offered strong support of Israel, he said in an interview published Sunday that he was "not necessarily sure" the country was seeking to reach a peace agreement with the Palestinians.

"Right now, I would say the Palestinians are not looking to make peace," Trump said in the interview with right-wing Israeli paper Israel Hayom.

"And I am not necessarily sure that Israel is looking to make peace."



In a rare rebuke, he also said Israeli settlement building "complicates" peace efforts.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The National Investigation Agency today took over the probe into Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist Mohammed Naveed Jhatt's escape from the SMHS hospital here, the agency spokesperson said.

The NIA today registered a case related to Jhatt's escape from SMHS hospital in Srinagar where he was brought on February 6 for treatment, the NIA spokesperson said.

An FIR was registered by the local Police at Karan Nagar in Srinagar district, the NIA said.

In this incident, two police personnel Mushtaq Ahmed and Babar Ahmed were killed, it said.

The NIA team is proceeding to Srinagar tomorrow for the investigation of the case, the spokesperson said.

The Pakistani terrorist staged the daring escape from the SMHS hospital, killing the two policemen with a pistol handed to him by his LeT accomplices who ambushed the police team escorting him.

The attack by the LeT to free "hardcore" terrorist Jhatt took place inside the busy Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) hospital complex in a high security area of Jammu and Kashmir's summer capital.

Jhatt, the 22-year-old LeT militant from Pakistan who was caught in Kulgam in south Kashmir in 2014, escaped with the assailants.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar today defended his party's decision not to contest any of the three seats in the state where by-polls are scheduled to be held next month.

Kumar, the national president of the Janata Dal (United), said the party's state unit had taken a "policy decision" not to field candidates for the Araria Lok Sabha and Bhabhua and Jahanabad Assembly seats.

The three seats were vacated after the deaths of a sitting MP and two MLAs who did not belong to the JD(U), he said.

"We do not see anything wrong in our decision not to contest these by-polls," he told reporters here on the sidelines of a public interaction programme "Lok Samvad".

The chief minister was responding to allegations by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav who has termed the JD(U) decision not to contest the by-elections an indication of Kumar's "capitulation" before the BJP.

While Araria and Jahanabad were held by the RJD, Bhabhua was with the BJP.

The ruling NDA in the state is yet to come out with names of candidates for the three seats.

Asked if he would take part in the campaign for the March 11 by-polls, Kumar said no decision had been taken on this yet.

Replying to a query on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent speech in Parliament where he had blamed Jawaharlal Nehru for India's Partition, Kumar said, "In a democracy everyone has the right to hold a view".

"The freedom struggle was marked by contributions from people of all hues. On the one hand there were people like Bhagat Singh and Chandrashekhar Azad and also Subhas Chandra Bose," he said.

On the other hand, he added, there was Gandhi, with many of his followers, including Nehru and Vallabhbhai Patel.

"It is, however, also a fact that the joy of freedom was marred by the tragedy of the Partition. And Gandhi as well as people like Ram Manohar Lohia had on August 15, 1947, stayed away from the celebrations, devoting their energies to bringing communal passions under control," Kumar said.

The chief minister also dismissed the controversy over Modi's remark that a person earning Rs 200 a day selling 'pakodas' should be considered employed.

"These are frivolities that gain currency when elections are close," he said.

Replying to a query about Congress president Rahul Gandhi's criticism of Mohan Bhagwat's statements on the RSS's ability to get "battle ready", Kumar said, "I am not fully aware of what the issue is".

"But I do not think there is anything wrong in any organisation talking about its willingness to contribute towards national security," Kumar added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today rubbished the RJD's allegation that Lalu Prasad was "framed" in the fodder scam cases by the NDA regimes at the Centre and in the state.

RJD chief Prasad has been lodged in Ranchi's Birsa Munda jail since December 23 last, following his conviction in a fodder scam case. Subsequently, he was convicted in another case related to the scam.

"What role did (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi or I have to play in the matter? It is an over-20-year-old case lodged by the CBI, which has been probing the matter following a Patna High Court order," Kumar told reporters here on the sidelines of his "Lok Samvad" (public interaction) programme.

"In fact, I was not even one of the petitioners, on whose PIL the court had directed the CBI to take up the matter. (Deputy CM) Sushil Modi was, so was (state minister) Lalan Singh and (Jharkhand minister) Saryu Rai," the Janata Dal (United) president said.

Kumar's retort came in the backdrop of the repeated allegations levelled against him and the NDA by Prasad and his party, blaming them for the RJD chief going to jail again in the multi-crore-rupee fodder scam cases.

The chief minister also took potshots at RJD vice- president Shivanand Tiwary, without taking his name, saying, "One of the petitioners (in the fodder scam cases) is now in their camp and I feel amused to see his reactions."



Tiwary, who was expelled from the JD(U) prior to the 2014 general election, has been saying that he regrets filing the PIL against Prasad.

"I never comment on any judicial verdict. I did not do so in 2013 either," Kumar said, referring to Prasad's first conviction in a fodder scam case that also saw him getting disqualified from contesting elections.

Prasad and Kumar had joined hands to contest the 2015 Bihar Assembly polls, after which the latter returned as chief minister while the former's son, Tejashwi Yadav, became the deputy chief minister.

However, the JD(U) leader walked out of the coalition, following corruption cases filed against Tejashwi. Kumar then formed a new government with the BJP in the state in July last year.

"I had not asked them (RJD) to declare me as the chief ministerial candidate, nor did my party make any such demand. They took the decision themselves, realising its poll prospects. They keep accusing me of betraying the mandate. We had got the mandate to govern, not to indulge in corruption," Kumar said.

Ever since the Grand Alliance, comprising the RJD, JD(U) and Congress, got dismantled, the RJD has gone on the offensive against Kumar. The attacks got sharpened after Prasad was sentenced to jail in the two fodder scam cases.

The over-Rs 900-crore fodder scam is related to irregularities in the animal husbandry department in combined Bihar in the early 90s when Prasad was the chief minister.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today assured that no genuine citizen will be left out of the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

He gave the assurance in the state Assembly while speaking about the updation of the NRC and its first draft released on December 31 last year.

The chief minister was replying to the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the Governor's address in the House.

He appealed to the opposition to work together with the government for the inclusive growth of the society.

"Change is not only about building new roads and bridges. Change should come in the attitude of the people and their mindset," Sonowal said.

During his reply, he also said that the overall law and order situation in the state had improved.

On allegations of corruption and scams raised by the opposition, the chief minister said, "We will not indulge in corruption. The people of Assam have reposed their faith in us and if we indulge in corruption, we will lose our self- respect."



On the importance of freedom of expression in a democracy, Sonowal said that the debates in the Assembly ensure participation of people through the voices of their elected representatives.

Assuring that his government was committed to ensure development of all sections, he said, "We have to think of those communities which don't have enough numbers to elect a representative of their own."



"We have to take development to the micro-level for an inclusive society," he said.

Referring to the recently-concluded global investors' summit 'Advantage Assam' here, Sonowal said it had opened up the potential of Assam for trade ties with ASEAN countries and the need to change the entire north eastern region's perception before the outside world.

Refuting the opposition's criticism that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not done enough for Assam, he said that Modi had visited the state during the devastating floods last year and formed a special committee to chalk out a permanent solution to the perennial problem.

To further illustrate the prime minister's affection for Assam, Sonowal said Modi wore the Assamese 'gamocha' (scarf) around his neck during the International Yoga Day and received heads of ASEAN countries with that scarf during their visit to New Delhi during the Republic Day celebrations.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Assam government today asserted that no part of the state would be allowed to be included in any 'proposed Nagalim'.

Assam Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary told the Assembly that the state government would never accept inclusion of Assam territory in 'Nagalim'.

He also assured the House that the government would strongly oppose any move to do so in the future also.

He was replying to Opposition Congress MLA Ajanta Neog raising the matter in the Assembly here about media reports that Assam's land would come under proposed 'Nagalim.

The insurgent group NSCN-IM has been seeking integration of the Naga-inhabited areas of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Manipur into Nagalim. This has been strongly opposed by the three states, currently ruled by the BJP.

The Assam minister said the state governments attention has been drawn to media reports and to the issue being raised by organisations about a purported move to include Assam territory in 'proposed Nagalim' as part of the peace pact.

On the border dispute with Nagaland, the minister claimed that the neighbouring state was not "cooperating with Assam in maintaining peace and status quo along the 512.1 kilometre-long inter-state boundary."



He alleged Nagaland has been attempting encroachment of Assam land with the latest major instance being of setting up a sub-division inside Assam in November last year, Patowary said Assam government has been successfully and firmly resisting such attempts.

The minister was hopeful the border dispute would be settled soon as the Supreme Court was dealing with it.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Scientists are developing an innovative device that uses cold plasma technology to tackle the problem of airborne allergens in the home such as dust mites, fungal spores and pollen.

Cold plasma is a form of ionised gas where energetic electrons and ions coexist alongside a wide variety of highly reactive chemical compounds.

The technology developed by researchers at the University of Liverpool in the UK only requires air and electricity to operate, typically using ten times less power than a household light bulb.

It is an emerging technology and its application is being explored across a number of sectors including food industry, manufacturing and biomedicine.

Recently it has been discovered that when cold plasma comes in to contact with contamination in the air around us, such as an allergy causing fungus or household chemical, it has a very powerful decontamination effect.

This project will develop a device that will harness the power of cold plasma to destroy airborne allergens on contact.

To develop the plasma device researchers will first construct an ultra-efficient pulsed air plasma source that creates a plasma rich in highly reactive chemical compounds.

Obtaining the right mix of chemicals to destroy the contamination is the key to success, researchers said.

To guide development, state of the art diagnostic measurements will be made on common household allergens passing through the plasma device to reveal the underpinning breakdown pathways, they said.

A unique engineering solution will be developed to simultaneously target multiple allergens (such as dust mites, fungal spores and pollen) whilst overcoming many of the drawbacks associated with current devices on the market that can be expensive and inefficient, the researchers said.

"This is an exciting and innovative research project which has real-life impact," said James Walsh from the University of Liverpool.

"We will use our expertise in plasma science here at Liverpool to ultimately produce a low-cost, efficient and effective technology that reduces the concentration of allergens from within the household environment," said Walsh.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)New York state sued Harvey Weinstein, his brother and their production company for failing to protect employees from years of his alleged sexual misconduct despite multiple complaints from staff.

The lawsuit comes four months after the Hollywood mogul's downfall over allegations of sexual harassment, assault and rape now leveled against the producer by more than 100 women over 40 years.

State prosecutors said the legal action, the result of an ongoing four-month investigation, was filed Sunday out of fear that an imminent sale of The Weinstein Company, now on the verge of bankruptcy, could leave victims without adequate redress.

The lawsuit, which could delay the sale, accuses the company's board and executives of repeatedly failing to take adequate steps to protect staff or curb Weinstein's behavior, despite multiple complaints to human resources.

It alleges that female assistants were required to facilitate Weinstein's sex life as a condition of employment and had copies of a manual, known as a "Bible," that included directions on how to do so.

Prosecutors said Weinstein made verbal threats to "kill" several staff or their families, and touted his connection to political figures and alleged Secret Service contacts that could "take care of problems."



They said one employee was flown from London to New York to teach his assistants "how to dress and smell more attractive" to Weinstein.

They also alleged that Weinstein's drivers in New York and Los Angeles were required to keep condoms and erectile dysfunction injections in the car at all times.

Prosecutors said Weinstein made a female employee take dictation while leering at her as he lay naked on his bed in 2014-15. He also put his hand on her upper thigh and buttocks near her genitalia to rub her without consent in the back of cars.

Largely female assistants allegedly contacted prospective sexual partners via text message or phone at his direction, and maintained space on his calendar for sexual activity.

Female executives also allegedly had to meet prospective sexual conquests and follow through on promised job offers, which prosecutors said demeaned and humiliated them, fueling a hostile work environment.

The New York state attorney's office said that despite multiple complaints to the human resources department, there was no meaningful investigation or relief for victims, or consequences for Weinstein.

It said the company's toxic work environment was shrouded in secrecy because of a practice of reaching non-disclosure agreements -- a policy that has come under renewed scrutiny in the wake of the sexual harassment watershed that has followed Weinstein's downfall.

State attorney general Eric Schneiderman said the lawsuit, filed in the State Supreme Court in New York, included new allegations about Weinstein's "vicious and exploitative mistreatment" of employees.

"As alleged in our complaint, The Weinstein Company repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation and discrimination," said Schneiderman.

"Any sale of The Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched."



Weinstein is reportedly in treatment for sex addiction and is under investigation by British and US police, although he has not been charged with any crime. He denies having non- consensual sex.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A team of officials would visit six Bru relief camps in Tripura to identify Bru families willing to return to Mizoram, a state Home department official said.

The team comprising officials of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Mizoram government would begin the identification process of the Bru families lodged in the relief camps in North Tripura district from February 22, the official said.

Efforts were in full swing to begin the repatriation of the Bru families from early March, additional secretary in Mizoram government's Home department, Lalbiakzama told PTI.

The MHA had released Rs 7.9 crore recently for the purpose while the state government had submitted an estimate of Rs 123 crore for the exercise, he said.

The state government officials who conducted an identification in the Tripura relief camps from November 2 to November 23, 2016 had identified 32,857 people belonging to 5,413 families as bona fide residents of Mizoram, who were eligible for repatriation.

The proposed repatriation scheduled to commence from November 30 last year could not take off due to several reasons including increase in the number of bona fide residents of Mizoram from 21,000 to 32,857, necessitating a revision of the expenditure estimate.

A memorandum submitted to the Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh by the Mizoram Bru Displaced People's Forum (MBDPF) last month had demanded a provision of Rs 15 lakh to each repatriated Bru family.

The MBPDF had also demanded that all the repatriated able-bodied youths should be given government jobs.

Thousands of Brus are lodged in the six relief camps since the later part of 1997 following exodus from Mizoram due to communal tension triggered by the murder of a forest official by Bru militants.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 'one-two punch' from the big meteor that struck off Mexico 66 million years ago, possibly triggering enhanced volcanic eruptions at India's Deccan Traps, may have sealed the fate of the dinosaurs, a study suggests.

The study, published in the journal Science Advances, details a record of volcanism preserved along the mid-ocean ridges, which mark the oceanic boundaries of tectonic plates.

The evidence comes from changes in the strength of gravity above the seafloor.

The findings by researchers at University of Oregon in the US point to a pulse of accelerated worldwide volcanic activity that includes enhanced eruptions at India's Deccan Traps after the Chicxulub impact.

The Deccan Traps, in west-central India, formed during a period of massive eruptions that poured out layers of molten rock thousands of feet deep, creating one of the largest volcanic features on Earth.

The Deccan Traps region has been in and out of the dinosaur debate. Rare volcanic events at such a scale are known to cause catastrophic disturbances to Earth's climate, and, when they occur, they are often linked to mass extinctions.

Huge volcanic events can eject so much ash and gas into the atmosphere that few plants survive, disrupting the food chain and causing animals to go extinct.

Since evidence of the meteor strike near present-day Chicxulub, Mexico, surfaced in the 1980s, scientists have debated whether the meteor or the Deccan Traps eruptions drove the extinction event that killed off all nonavian dinosaurs.

Progressively improving dating methods indicate that the Deccan Traps volcanoes already were active when the meteor struck.

Resulting seismic waves moving through the planet from the meteor strike probably fuelled an acceleration of those eruptions.

"Our work suggests a connection between these exceedingly rare and catastrophic events, distributed over the entire planet," said Leif Karlstrom, a professor at University of Oregon.

"The meteorite's impact may have influenced volcanic eruptions that were already going on, making for a one-two punch," said Karlstrom.

That idea gained strength in 2015 when researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, proposed that the two events might be connected.

That team, which included Karlstrom, suggested that the meteorite may have modulated distant volcanism by generating powerful seismic waves that produced shaking worldwide.

Similar to the impacts that normal tectonic earthquakes sometimes have on wells and streams, Karlstrom said, the study proposed that seismic shaking liberated magma stored in the mantle beneath the Deccan Traps and caused the largest eruptions there.

The new findings extend this eruption-triggering in India to ocean basins worldwide.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Twelve militants were killed today in Egypt's restive North and Central Sinai region, the Army said as it launched a major operation to flush out insurgents, a day after eliminating 16 terrorists.

As many as 92 suspected terrorists were arrested, while 60 militant targets, 30 shelters and 27 unlicensed motor-bikes used by them were destroyed during the raids, the Army said in a statement.

Yesterday, the Army had raided locations in North Sinai, killing 16 terrorists and arresting 30 suspected militants. 66 terrorist points, arms depots, 11 vehicles and 31 unlicensed motor-bikes used by militants were also destroyed.

Law enforcement agencies had announced on February 9 that they will be on "maximum alert" for the duration of 'Operation Sinai' 2018.

North Sinai has witnessed many terrorists attacks since the January 2011 revolution. The attacks, mainly targeting police and military, increased after the ouster of Islamist ex-president Mohamed Morsi in 2013 by military following massive protests against his rule.

Hundreds of police and army personnel have been killed since.

The military has launched security campaigns in the North Sinai area, in which some terrorists are based.

The security forces have arrested suspects and demolished houses that belong to terrorists, including those facilitating tunnels leading to the Gaza Strip.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had in November ordered the military forces to restore security in Sinai within three months, after militants killed more than 300 worshippers at a mosque.

The attack was said to be the deadliest terrorist attack in Egypt's modern history.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly's Budget Session here ended on a bitter note as opposition Congress, NC and CPI(M) members, barring one MLA, walked out from the House, accusing the Speaker Kavinder Gupta of being biased.

Opposition members except National Conference (NC) MLA Mohammad Akbar Lone walked out of the House amid Gupta's concluding remarks, alleging that the speaker was acting like a spokesman of the government, the BJP and the RSS.

Lone, whose 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogan on Saturday led to an uproar in the House, remained seated as his colleagues along with CPI(M) MLA M Y Tarigami and Congress members walked out.

Interrupting the speaker during his speech, Tarigami said "I am requesting that you are not a presiding officer of a particular party. The budget was passed by the House and there is no need to repeat it."



"The speaker is the custodian of the house and should behave like a non-party person," he said.

Congress Legislature party leader Nawang Rigzin Jora also reacted sharply and asked the speaker "not to behave like he spokesman of the government."



Later talking to reporters outside the House, NC general secretary and MLA Ali Mohammad Sagar said that the speaker had vindicated his party's apprehension that he was "biased and acting like a member of BJP and RSS" which he should not.

"Being a speaker he should be very impartial and it should look from his actions. His speech in the House was like he was reading the agenda of the the BJP and RSS. Naturally, we have no course but to walk out to lodge our strong protest against the speaker," he said.

However, the NC leader supported the speech of Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti that dialogue with Pakistan is the only way forward.

Sagar said that she was right in saying that those who talk about dialogue are dubbed as "anti-national" which is wrong.

"She endorsed the statement of (NC president) Farooq Abdullah and (NC working president) Omar Abdullah that dialogue is the way forward and nothing will be achieved by killings, operations and crackdowns.

"It is the stand and agenda of the party that dialogue holds the key for honourable solution of Kashmir issue," he said.

Earlier in his speech, the speaker said he felt honoured to be given the post after getting elected for the first time.

"I made a sincere effort to uphold to fulfil my responsibility which you all know," Gupta said.

He read out a message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and sought support for various reforms and central initiatives to ensure 'Sab ka saath, Sab ka vikas'



Gupta also hailed Mehbooba as the first woman chief minister of the state and talked about the initiatives her government has taken to counter the proxy war and carry forward the developmentalprojects.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)More than five kg gold was seized from a passenger at the airport here after the man arrived from Dubai, Customs officials said today.

The 60-year-old man on wheelchair was intercepted by Customs officials and recovered eight gold bars weighing 5.35 kg from him last night.

The man used the wheelchair as a ploy as later it was found that he was fit enough to walk, they said.

The man, hailing from Tamil Nadu, was arrested. His name was not disclosed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi today hit out at those advocating that Muslims give up their claim over the land where the Babri mosque stood before its demolition.

"You say peace will prevail (if Muslims give up their claim). Shall we give up Masjid-e-Aqsa (in Jerusalem)?" he said, without naming anybody.

The Hyderabad MP's remarks came in the backdrop of noted cleric Maulana Syed Salman Husain Nadvi's remarks that shifting of a mosque is possible according to the Sharia (Islamic law).

Owaisi was addressing a public meeting after the conclusion of the 26th Plenary of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) last night.

The AIMPLB yesterday approved Nadvi's "decision to quit" as its executive member, days after he met Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar over the Ayodhya dispute and said at the board's meeting that shifting of a mosque is possible under the Islamic law.

The Babri Masjid would remain a mosque till eternity and Muslims could never exchange the land for the masjid, the Board said yesterday.

Referring to the the issue of triple talaq, on which the NDA government has brought a bill, Owaisi alleged interference in the Muslim personal law.

The Lok Sabha MP alleged the NDA government has failed on various fronts, including managing the economy.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan today indicted the prime accused in the brutal rape and murder of a seven-year-old girl in Punjab province, an incident that sparked a nation-wide outrage.

The girl went missing while going for tuition near her aunt's house in Kasur city, some 50 kilometres from Lahore, on January 5. Her body was found in a garbage heap, five days after her kidnapping.

During the hearing, judge Sajjad Ahmad indicted prime suspect Imran Ali Naqshbandi in the murder case, Geo reported.

Imran was arrested on January 23. His trial is being held on a daily basis inside the jail premises.

The Lahore High Court has directed the anti-terrorism court to wrap up the trial within seven days of the suspect's indictment.

Imran's DNA also matched samples taken from seven other minor girls who were abused and murdered earlier in Kasur.

Evidence against the accused includes DNA and polygraph tests, his own clothes, CCTV footage and the medical report.

A list of 55 witnesses has also been submitted before the court.

After the police arrested Imran, the suspect reportedly confessed to assaulting eight minor girls at an under- construction site and two others in a garbage heap.

He also admitted to murdering five minor girls at an under-construction site and throwing away the bodies of three others in a garbage pile, the report said quoting sources.

Earlier, police sources confirmed Imran, a neighbour of the girl, had confessed to his crime before an investigation team.

Imran was familiar with the victim's family and would also frequent her house.

Violent protests gripped the Kasur city following the minor's rape and murder that claimed two lives. The shocking incident also stirred a national outcry demanding justice for her.

Last year, 4,139 incidents of child abuse took place in the Punjab province where 43 per cent of them were acquainted with perpetrators.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain has signed an ordinance aimed at reigning in individuals and organisations like the Let, Al-Qaeda and Taliban, which have been banned by the UN Security Council, a media report said today.

The ordinance amends a section of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), enabling the authorities to take action against the UNSC-proscribed individuals and terror outfits, like sealing their offices and freezing their bank accounts, The Express Tribune reported.

The sources in the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) confirmed the new move, saying the ministries of Interior, Finance and Foreign Affairs as well as NACTA's Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) wing are working together on the matter.

An official in the Presidency familiar with the development confirmed the said legislation but refused to share details, saying the Ministry of Defence was the notifying authority.

"The relevant ministry will notify and comment on it," the official said.

It is learnt that the authorities are bound under international obligations to take measures against such outfits under the framework of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) an international body that combats money laundering and terrorist financing.

The UNSC sanctions list includes Al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e- Taliban Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), Lashkar-e-Taiba (Let) and others.

In December last year, the government had planned to take over two charities belonging to Hafiz Saeed the JuD and the FIF and an action plan in this connection was supposed to be submitted.

Last month, the government had also banned companies and individuals from making donations to the JuD, the FIF and other organisations.

Jundullah was the last organisation declared "proscribed" by the government of Pakistan on January 31, 2018 on the NACTA website. However, the JuD and the FIF continue to be on the NACTA "watch list".

Laskar-e-Taiba was declared a banned organisation under the UNSC resolution 1267 in 2005.

The US State Department in 2014 had named the JuD as a "foreign terrorist organisation", a designation that freezes assets the organisation has under the US jurisdiction.

India also blamed JuD leader Saeed for the Mumbai attacks of November 2006, but Pakistan argues that New Delhi has failed to provide incriminating evidence against him, the report said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today said Pakistan was resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration and asserted that Islamabad was expanding its "arc of terror" to areas south of the Pir Panjal Range in Jammu region.

Sitharaman, however, said infiltration across the LoC had ebbed due to the deployment of the anti-infiltration obstacle system (AIOS) and a dynamic multi-layered counter infiltration grid.

"Pakistan is expanding the arc of terror to the areas south of Pir Panjal Range (Jammu region) and resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration. These are being responded appropriately," Sitharaman, who arrived here to take stock of the situation following the attack on the Sunjuwan Army camp, told reporters here today.

She said that security along the LoC was further being beefed up with electronic surveillance equipment.

"With a view to enhance alertness along the borders, additional sensors, unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and long range surveillance devices have already been deployed to cover the entire frontage of the LoC," she said.

The minister said terror activities in the hinterland were being controlled.

"The activities of the terrorists in the hinterland are being severely curtailed due to the relentless efforts of the security forces," she said.

Sitharaman maintained that the government is implementing Philip Compose committee report for the security of all military installations.

She said, "Although, the terrain configuration and snow conditions make it difficult to completely stop the infiltration, the government is undertaking a host of measures in procuring modern electronic surveillance systems...for which a sum of Rs 1,487 crores has been allocated".

"We will continue to thwart any attempt by Pakistan- sponsored terrorists to cause violence in our country and necessary action to deal with them through our counter terrorist strategy has been put into action," she said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) today confirmed that the group's deputy chief Khalid Mehsud alias Sajna was killed in a US drone strike on February 8 in Pakistan's restive northwestern tribal region.

"We confirm that the deputy head of the TTP Khalid Mehsud died in a drone strike," Taliban spokesman Muhammad Khurassani said in a text message to reporters.

Taliban chief Mullah Fazlullah has appointed commander Mufti Noor Wali Wali as his new deputy, Khurassani added.

Officials in Pakistan had earlier reported about Sajna's death in a US strike.

Sajna was a leading figure of the Taliban and that both Pakistani and American security forces were after him for a long time.

According to Pakistani officials, Sajna was battle- hardened with experience of fighting in Afghanistan.

Sajna, in his early 40s, was believed to be involved in an attack on a naval base in Karachi and was credited with masterminding a 2012 jailbreak in which the Taliban freed nearly 400 inmates in the northwestern city of Bannu.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today blamed Pakistan for the terror attack at the Sunjuwan Military Camp here and made it clear that it will pay the price for the "misadventure".

She asserted that even though evidence of Pakistan's role may be shared, India still reserved the "right to respond adequately at the time our choosing".

"Pakistan will pay for this misadventure. I repeat Pakistan will pay for it, the defence minister, who arrived here to take stock of the situation told reporters.

A group of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists had struck the Sunjuwan military camp in the wee hours on Saturday, killing six people including five soldiers. Three terrorists were also gunned down.

"I would not certainly set a timeline but Pakistan will pay for this misadventure. I can only assure the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the entire country that the Army, both the governments at the state and the centre, are definitely looking at it with all seriousness," she said.

Asked whether the government was sharing evidence with Pakistan, Sitharaman replied in the affirmative.

"Yes, all the evidences which have been collected will be compiled and definitely the evidences will be given as always to Pakistan. But Pakistan, inspite of being given dossiers after dossiers, has not taken any action, she said.

On the contrary, we find people directly responsible for the Mumbai attack and many others still free and roaming happily in Pakistan, the defence minister said.

She said the Centre would provide evidence to prove that the handlers of the terrorists were back in Pakistan and were influencing the attack.

Sitharaman said giving evidence to Pakistan would have to be a continuous process because it has to be proven over and over again, as many number of times, so that their involvement is there for everybody to see.

"The evidences will strengthen that argument. But giving that does not deny us our right to respond adequately and at a time of which we think fit," she said.

Sitharaman hailed the coordination among various security agencies operating in the state and said "there will be more information sharing with state police".

Sitharaman said intelligence inputs suggested that terrorists who attacked the Sunjuwan Camp were controlled by handlers from across the border.

Three terrorists were killed even as the initial information was about four of them, she said adding that the fourth may have acted as a guide.

The attack by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists, sponsored by Pakistan based Azhar Masood, resulted in the death of six people including five soldiers, she told reporters.

Counter terrorist operation at the military camp was called off this morning but sanitisation operations were still on, she added. The defence minister said the JeM module which conducted the attack may have infiltrated sometime back and possibly enjoyed local support.

"The demography of the cantonment and adjoining areas indicate the possibility of local support to the terrorists and an alert had been sounded on the likelihood of an attack by the terrorists around this period," she said.

The defence minister said that quick reaction teams (QRTs) were deployed in vulnerable areas. It was assessed that Pak-Sponsored terrorists may target softer elements, hence, QRTs were also positioned at Sunjuwan family quarters, she said.

Sitharaman said the intrusions of the terrorists was promptly detected by the sentry and challenged by a nearby QRT leading to the brief exchange of fire.

"This immediate action forced terrorists to split into individual positions and prevented a coordinated strike. The scattered terrorists reached the family quarters and occupied some of the blocks," she said.

They were isolated, and since the terrorists were dressed in battle fatigues, and had an appearance similar to to their possible victims, the operation had to be done "deliberately slow" to avoid collateral damages, she said.

"The operation entailed the deliberate search of 26 blocks and safe evacuation of families from 189 flats which was time consuming and a challenging task, she said.

Sitharaman also blamed Pakistan for infiltration of terrorists into J&K and said it was expanding the arc of terror to the areas south of Pir Panjal Ranges.

On her meeting with chief minister, the defence minister said Mufti expressed deep anguish and concern because she too had been to the military hospital and seen the injured recovering there.

"She was absolutely emotionally charged when she said women and children were attacked. I shared my grief with her also," she said.

Asked about the situation in the state, she said "whether it has improved or not, I am not going to say anything on that. We, in coordination with home ministry and ministry of external affairs, are working with the state government to improve the situation and will continue to work in this direction".

She said all have to work together to make sure that the Army is taken care of, because they are fighting a very very severe struggle. Sitharaman also visited the injured at the hospital today.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The spokesman for the Pakistani Taliban has confirmed the death of their deputy leader in a recent US drone strike in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region.

Azam Tariq Mehsud, the spokesman for the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, says the group's deputy chief, Khalid Mehsud, also known as Commander Sajna, was killed in last Thursday's strike in the border village of Gorwak in North Waziristan, once a stronghold of militants.

He said another commander, Mufti Noor Wali, has now been appointed as the group's deputy chief.

Tariq says Wali enjoys the backing of Mullah Fazlullah, the leader of the Pakistani Taliban who is believed to be hiding in Afghanistan.

Pakistani officials had earlier reported unconfirmed reports about Sajna's killing in a US strike.

Islamabad opposes the drone strikes, saying they violate its sovereignty.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar today said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would inaugurate the KMP and KGP expressways in March.

He said that the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) and the Kundli-Ghaziabad-Palwal (KGP) expressways are scheduled to be completed by March 31.

The chief minister announced this after inspecting the intersection of KMP-KGP and National Highway-1 at Rai in Sonipat district.

Khattar said the construction work on these expressways would be completed within the prescribed time frame and it would help in getting rid-off of traffic jams.

Earlier, during a review, he had sought a report from the officers of the construction company, an official release said here.

Khattar also visited Badkhalsa in Sonipat where he said that under the 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' programme, the sex ratio in the state had improved, and now it was 914 girls per 1,000 boys.

In Badkhalsa village, this figure has crossed the 1,000 mark, he said.

"Welfare and upliftment of girls is necessary for building a strong and stable society," Khattar said, exhorting villagers to educate girls.

"Sonipat is fast developing as an education hub and more reputed institutions will soon come up in this area," he added.

He also urged the youth to excel in sports.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met with industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business.

Modi, who arrived here yesterday from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, also met Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman, Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

The two leaders discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

"Four countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership," Kumar said.

Later, the prime minister will visit the historic Shiva Temple of Muscat. The temple is one of the oldest of the region and is located in the Matrah area near Sultans Palace.

The temple was constructed 125 years back by Merchant Community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

The temple has three deities -- Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

He will also visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before heading back to Delhi.

(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.)A special court today summoned former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh, his wife and three others as accused in a Rs 7 crore money laundering case.

Special Judge Santosh Snehi Mann said there was "prima facie" enough evidence against the accused persons and directed them to appear before the court on March 22.

The Enforcement Directorate had chargesheeted 83-year-old Singh, accusing him of projecting around Rs 7 crore "proceeds of crime" as agricultural income in connivance with his wife and others and invested them in purchasing LIC policies.

Besides Singh and his 62-year-old wife Pratibha Singh, the court summoned Universal Apple Associate owner Chunni Lal Chauhan and two other co-accused, Prem Raj and Lawan Kumar Roach.

The final report also named as accused Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) agent Anand Chauhan, against whom a charge sheet was earlier filed by the agency.

All six have been charge sheeted under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Chauhan, arrested on July 9, 2016 by the ED under relevant provisions of the PMLA, was granted bail on January 2 in the case.

In the charge sheet against Virbhadra Singh, filed through Special Public Prosecutor N K Matta, the ED said, "The proceeds of crime acquired by Virbhadra Singh were projected as agricultural income with the help of Anand Chauhan, LIC agent and Chunni Lal Chauhan and were invested into insurance policies purchased in the name of Singh and his family members and a major part of it, after criss-crossing through various bank accounts found way into acquisition of immovable property."



The "proceeds of crime generated through criminal activities" were managed by Anand Chauhan, who actively assisted him in laundering it by projecting it as untainted, the final report said.

In a separate case filed by the CBI in connection with the matter, Singh, his wife and Anand Chauhan were chargesheeted along with others.

The couple, who have not been arrested so far, and the other accused are facing trial in the CBI case.

The other accused in the CBI case are Chunni Lal Chauhan, stamp paper vendor Joginder Singh Ghalta, managing director of Tarani Infrastructure Vakamulla Chandrasekhar, and co-accused Lawan Kumar Roach, Prem Raj and Ram Prakash Bhatia.

The CBI had claimed that Virbhadra Singh had amassed assets worth around Rs 10 crore which were disproportionate to his total income during his tenure as Union minister.

The matter was transferred by the Supreme Court to the Delhi High Court which, on April 6, 2016, asked the CBI not to arrest Singh and directed him to join the probe.

On November 5 last year, the apex court transferred Virbhadra Singh's plea from the Himachal Pradesh High Court to the Delhi High Court, saying it was not expressing any opinion on the merits of the case, but "simply" transferring the petition "in the interest of justice and to save the institution (judiciary) from any embarrassment".

The ED had filed a separate case based on the CBI FIR.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Delhi Police head constable was shot at in Baba Haridas Nagar area of Dwarka today, police said.

Head constable Satyawan suffered bullet injury in the knee and is undergoing treatment, a senior police officer said.

Satywan had some dispute with his neighbour. He was going for duty when two youths approached him. However, he was shot at while they were talking. The assailants escaped after the incident, he said.

The accused have been identified, and teams have been formed to arrest them, the officer added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)BJP MP Hema Malini today said "poor would only become poorer" under the Left Front government in Tripura and appealed to the people to vote for a change in the state.

Tripura is set to go to polls on February 18 and the results will be announced on March 3.

The actor-turned-politician today addressed a public rally at Dhanpur assembly constituency, the home turf of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar.

Sarkar had won elections from the seat for four consecutive terms since 1998.

"The benefits of the pro-poor policies of the central government were only enjoyed by the cadres of the ruling CPI(M). The people of Tripura remained neglected," she said at the rally.

She urged people to vote for Pratima Bhowmik, the BJP candidate from the seat, in the upcoming elections.

"While coming here (Dhanpur), I came across big residential buildings and thought that people are well off in this part of the state. Upon enquiry, I found out most of these buildings were owned by CPI(M) leaders," she said.

The BJP MP also led a 3-km-long road show from a market area to Kathalia HS School ground in Dhanpur.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pope Francis has criticised media which "denigrates" migrants through emotive or incomplete reporting on their situation.

"Some months ago I saw a newspaper headline about a small town in Italy which read, 'this is the town where there were the most rapes this year -- I can't remember which town, it's not important -- and 40 per cent of the rapists were migrants'," the pontiff said.

"This is a way of 'denigrating' migrants. But I ask myself -- so, the other 60 per cent, what were they? Italians.

"There is a way of presenting things which modifies the truth," he said, while receiving participants at a Vatican day of prayer and reflection.

The issue of migration is currently a burning issue with Italians shocked by the recent murder of an 18-year-old woman in the central town of Macerata, leading to the arrest of three Nigerians suspected of involvement after her dismembered body was found.

Following the murder, a far-right gunmen then shot and wounded six Africans in a racially-motivated attack on February 3.

The incident came just weeks before Italy holds a general election in which far-right parties are expected to make a strong showing while immigration has been the dominant campaign issue.

Whereas the Macerata killing and its alleged connection to migrants has hit the headlines, other similarly sordid incidents ascribed to Italian perpetrators have generally received less widespread attention.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Punjab Police today marked its presence on the social media to counter misinformation campaign and false propaganda unleashed by radicals or gangsters to influence people, especially youth.

Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh formally launched the online campaign of the Punjab Police here.

With this, the Facebook page of the Punjab Police (facebook.com/PunjabPoliceIndia), Twitter account of Punjab Police (twitter.com/PunjabPolice), Twitter account of the director general of police and YouTube channel of the Punjab Police have gone live.

The social media campaign of the police will go a long way in bridging the gap between the police and the citizens, and also in tackling the abuse of social media by gangsters and criminals seeking to spread terror in the state, the chief minister said at the launch ceremony.

The social media accounts will provide an effective forum for information dissemination/feedback/complaint channelling, said the chief minister, urging the police to harness the social media power effectively, for the mutual benefit of the force and the citizens.

The chief minister called upon the police to use the social media in a productive manner to connect with various sections of the society, particularly the youth, in order to provide transparent, responsive and effective policing.

Social media can be of immense help in effectively handling law and order situations, prevention and detection of crimes, and other aspects of policing, he said.

The DGP said the police would use the three social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter and YouTube) to come closer to the people.

The social media cell will be led by the inspector general rank police officer and it would work round the clock to give timely and effective response to any threat of misinformation campaign, official said.

The move of the Punjab Police setting up a social media cell came in the backdrop of radicalisation campaign being carried out on various platforms of the social media and Amarinder Singh had also directed the state police to remain vigilant against such campaigns in November last year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa today demanded a snap general election after his party pulled off a stunning victory in local elections seen as a referendum on the ruling alliance.

Rajapaksa's new political party, Sri Lanka People's Party (SLPP), defeated President Maithripala Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), winning 225 councils or two thirds of the 340 councils which went to polls on Saturday.

The UNP won 41 councils while the SLFP was a distant third with just 11.

Rajapaksa's good show indicates that he may return to the big arena after being sidelined with his January 2015 loss to Sirisena in the presidential election.

Buoyed by his success in the weekend's local council election, Rajapaksa, 72, said the people have given the message that parliamentary election must be held now to bring in stability.

The next general election is scheduled to be held after August 2020.

The former strongman, whose nearly a decade-long rule was ended by Sirisena in 2015, alleged that the unity government of SLFP and UNP has not provided a political stability to the country.

Terming the local council election a referendum on the unity government, Rajapaksa said the voters have rejected the programme of the government and they have no mandate now.

He said an early parliamentary election would lead to the establishment of a stable government.

Since being defeated in the 2015 presidential election by Sirisena, Rajapaksa entered Parliament in the parliamentary election held later that year.

The two-time former president has been voted back with overwhelming support of the Sinhala Buddhist majority who view them as their hero for ending the 30 year separatist war of the LTTE.

In a statement, he thanked the voters and appealed for calm in celebrating the victory.

Sirisena was voted into office on the strength of support mainly from the minority Tamil and Muslin communities.

The local polls victory for Rajapaksa may even lead to a change in the government with the UNP coming under pressure to resign and sit in the Opposition once again, analysts say.

Sirisena faces a sterner challenge from his predecessor Rajapaksa. Sirisena's relationship with Wickremesinghe, his main supporter when he defeated Rajapaksa in the presidency in 2015, has soured in recent months.

Sirisena has targeted the Wickremesinghe's UNP, dubbing it even more corrupt than the Rajapaksa government of which Sirisena had walked out to become the then main Opposition challenger.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Home Minister Rajnath Singh today reviewed the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, where two terror attacks in last three days have left nine persons dead, including five army men, officials said.

During an hour-long meeting with top officials, the home minister was given a detailed presentation about the situation in the state, particularly attack on an army camp in Jammu and a gunfight between security forces and militants in Srinagar.

Singh was told that the highest level of security has been put in place in the entire state and steps were being taken to foil attempts by terrorists to disturb peace, an official said.

The home minister directed the officials that action must be taken to check infiltration attempts from across the border, another official said.

Those who attended the meeting included Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Rajiv Jain.

Yesterday, Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra had briefed the home minister about the prevailing situation in the troubled state.

The governor apprised the home minister of the security situation in the state, particularly in border areas, which have been witnessing massive ceasefire violations by Pakistan and infiltration from across the border.

Five Army men, including two junior commissioned officers (JCOs), and the father of a soldier were killed by the terrorists who struck at the sprawling camp of the 36 Brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) on Saturday.

The Army said yesterday that three heavily armed terrorists have been killed in the encounter.

Security forces today foiled an attempt by militants to strike a CRPF camp in Srinagar. A paramilitary jawan was killed in the ensuing gunfight.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congress president Rahul Gandhi today accused RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat of "disrespecting" the Army and those who have laid down their lives for the country.

Gandhi slammed Bhagwat over his remarks that the RSS could "prepare" military personnel faster than the Army.

The RSS chief's speech was an "insult" to every Indian, the Congress president said and demanded an apology from the RSS.

"The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS," he tweeted.

Addressing an RSS workers meet in Bihar yesterday, Bhagwat said, "Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits (to do so)."



The RSS has, however, clarified that its chief's speech has been misrepresented.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)South Africa's ruling ANC party was locked in closed-door discussions tonight, wrangling over the fate of Jacob Zuma after the scandal-tainted president refused to resign.

The party's powerful 107-member national executive committee (NEC) met at a hotel outside Pretoria, but gave no official update on Zuma's fate after several hours.

The committee could "recall" the head of state, essentially ordering him to step down, although he would be under no constitutional obligation to obey.

He would then likely be ousted via a parliamentary vote of no-confidence within days.

Local media said the meeting continued into the night after a presidential spokesman denied reports that a resignation deal had been agreed.

African National Congress chief Cyril Ramaphosa -- the de-facto president-in-waiting -- has been in negotiations with Zuma, who rejected a request from party leaders to step down more than a week ago.

The stalemate has plunged South Africa into political uncertainty over who is running the country, with a series of public events cancelled including last Thursday's State of the Nation address to parliament.

"We know you want this matter to be finalised," Ramaphosa, 65, said at a party rally in Cape Town on Sunday to rapturous cheering.

"We know you want closure... Because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that."



South African opposition parties on Monday called for early elections as the ANC's leadership battle ground on.

"We must proceed to the dissolution of parliament... subsequent to that, we move on to an early election," Democratic Alliance (DA) party leader Mmusi Maimane told reporters, speaking alongside several opposition parties.

The parliamentary speaker announced that an opposition request for a no-confidence vote against Zuma on Tuesday was still being considered on Monday evening.

Political analyst Somadoda Fikeni said the ANC committee appeared split.

Some members facing corrupt allegations while serving under Zuma are "not fighting for a principle or the ANC, it will be the basic instinct of self-preservation," he told eNCA television.

"They will strive for consensus, but if that fails, it will go to a vote," he warned.

"The pressure is so much, it has to be the final decision for the ANC leadership. If they fail to do so, they will have surrendered the initiative."



Zuma's presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger.

He was due to stand down next year after serving the maximum two terms after coming to power in 2009.

Zuma's hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- his former wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost to Ramaphosa in a vote to be the new party leader.

A key sticking point in the negotiations is reportedly the potentially ruinous legal fees Zuma faces from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal cases.

He is also said to be seeking legal protection for his family and other associates who have been involved in controversial deals.

The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the budget, which is due on February 21.

Sunday's rally was part of ANC celebrations marking 100 years since Nelson Mandela's birth -- as well as efforts by Ramaphosa to revive the party's tainted reputation ahead of next year's general election.

Zuma, 75, has not spoken publicly since being asked to resign by senior ANC officials on February 4.

In 2008, his supporters pushed out then-president Thabo Mbeki over allegations of abuse of power.

Under Zuma, the ANC won less than 54 percent of the vote in local elections in 2016 -- its worst electoral performance since coming to power with Mandela at the helm in 1994.

Ramaphosa is a former trade unionist who led talks to end apartheid rule in the early 1990s and then became a multi- millionaire businessman before returning to

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Three motorcycle-borne miscreants today shot at an operator of SBI's 'Grahak Sewa Kendra' and looted over Rupees two lakh from his posession in East Champaran district of Bihar, police said.

The incident occurred when Santosh Kumar was on his way to deposit the money at a 'Grahak Sewa Kendra' at Baghiya village after withdrawing the money from SBI's Turkaulia branch, Station House Officer of Kotwa police station, Rajesh Kumar, said.

After looting Rs 2.38 lakh from the man at a place between Dipiu and Okra villages, the miscreants fled from the scene.

Raids are being conducted to nab the culprits as they have been identified, the SHO said.

Kumar was referred to Motihari Sadar Hospital after being administerd first aid at a nearby private clinic.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court today asked the Election Commission to file a reply within two weeks on a plea seeking direction for common electoral rolls for Parliament, Assembly and local body polls to save public money and manpower.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra, and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, listed the matter for disposal on March 5 and asked Attorney General K K Venugopal to assist the court in the matter.

The apex court had on October 13 last year sought the response of the Centre and the Election Commission on the plea, filed by Delhi BJP leader Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay.

The petition has also sought direction to the authorities to take steps to use 'totaliser' for counting of votes.

'Totaliser' is a device which allows votes cast in about 14 polling booths to be counted together.

It referred to the provisions of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, under which votes in the EVMs are to be counted polling station-wise, and said this led to situations where voting pattern in various localities or pockets become known to everyone.

The petitioner has also proposed that post offices be used as the nodal agency for voter registration and verification, saying it will not only help overcome the issue of duplication and confusion but also save huge public money and manpower.

The plea sought that elections be held on a Sunday, like in several other countries, to enable maximum voter turnout.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court today pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for not taking a clear stand on the issue of restoration of provision for anticipatory bail in the state that was scrapped in 1976.

The apex court was hearing a petition filed by a lawyer seeking restoration of the provision of anticipatory bail in Uttar Pradesh as its absence is "discriminatory" to the people of the state.

The top court had in 2008 recommended to Uttar Pradesh government to take appropriate steps and bring an ordinance to restore the provision for anticipatory bail in the state.

The state government had in 2010, brought an amendment in the law to include the provision for anticipatory bail.

During the hearing today, the top court asked the state government as to why it has not placed before the Assembly 'The Code of Criminal Procedure Uttar Pradesh (Amendment) Bill, 2010' after the President had withheld the assent and sent it back in September 2011.

"You (UP) want to create some problem or the other. Are you willing to act or not," a bench comprising Justices S A Bobde and L Nageswar Rao said.

"Why the government did not discharge its constitutional duties by getting the proposal passed in the Assembly with amendment," the bench asked and directed the state to make its stand clear on the issue within two weeks.

The top court also asked the counsel representing Uttar Pradesh to inform the secretary of Law Department of the state to be present in the court on the next date of hearing so that he could explain the status.

It also asked the Centre's counsel to obtain instructions on the issue.

The bench was hearing a petition by lawyer Sanjeev Bhatnagar who has said that after the President had sent back the amendment in September 2011, the state has not done anything in the matter.

In 2010, the state government had brought Amendment Act to restore provision of section 438 of the CrPC which deals with anticipatory bail. In August 2010, the state Assembly had passed the Amendment Act to restore the provision.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court today stayed two orders of the Delhi High Court summoning Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir in a matter related to grant of security cover to a Youth Congress leader.

The Delhi High Court had summoned the chief secretary after counsel for the state failed to inform the court about the next date of meeting of the high-level Security Review Coordination Committee (SRCC).

The SRCC comprises senior officials of the state and the Centre. The panel assesses the threat perception and level of security cover required for the citizens including the VIPs.

A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud stayed, the two orders of the high court dated January 3 and January 12, till March 12.

It, however, clarified that its order of stay should not be construed as an expression of opinion on grant or non-grant of security cover to Abid Imitaz Bhat alias Abid Kashmiri, who is a national secretary of All India Youth Congress.

Attorney General K K Venugopal and advocate Shoeb Alam appearing for Jammu and Kashmir said that the meeting of SRCC is scheduled to be held on Febaruary 19 to consider the security perception of Bhat.

Alam raised the question of territorial jurisdicton and said that the Delhi High Court had no jurisdiction to hear the case as the matter was related to providing security in Jammu and Kashmir.

He said the state government would not shy away from its duty to provide appropriate security cover to its citize of there was a threat perception determined by the SRCC.

"At present, Bhat has been provisionally granted X-2 securty cover till the consideration of his case by the SRCC. Let the SRCC consider his case and suitably categorize his security requirement as per the existing policy," Alam said.

The Jammu and Kashmir government had moved the apex court challenging the orders of high court summoning the chief secretary on Febaruary 13.

It said the high court was not justified in directing the chief secretary to be personally present, when the prayer of granting security to Bhat had already been provisionally accepted.

Bhat has sought direction from the high court seeking security for him and his family members from the state government on the ground that he has threat to his life.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Tamil Nadu government today said the second edition of the Global Investors Meet (GIM) will be held here on January 24 next year.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami has allocated a sum of Rs 75 crore towards the conduct of the two-day meet, an official release said.

The second edition was being held following the "good reception" to the inaugural one, held in September 2015 under the leadership of then Chief Minister, the late J Jayalalithaa, it said.

An amount of Rs 100 crore was allotted then.

The 2015 edition of GIM attracted Rs 2.42 lakh crore of investment from domestic and international investors, the release said.

Of this, Rs 62,738 crore worth of investments by 61 companies were in various stages of implementation, creating about 96,300 job opportunities, it added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actor Shahid Kapoor has dismissed reports that his next collaboration with filmmaker Imtiaz Ali is a sequel to their 2007 hit "Jab We Met".

Ever since the project was announced, there were reports that the film will be an 'organic' sequel to "Jab We Met", which featured Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan.

"There is nothing to do with 'Jab We Met' and in this film I don't look sad! We will make another good film. Why do we live in the past? It ('Jab We Met') has already been done. So no, (this isn't a sequel)," he said in a group interview.

The director-actor duo will start working on the project next year after Shahid Kapoor wraps up Shree Narayan Singh's "Batti Gull Meter Chalu".

The "Padmaavat" star, who is currently shooting for the film, says as an actor his goal is to constantly try and do different roles.

"It's not about performing better or worse, it's about (being) different. That's the operative word for me. I would like to do different things. Every film, every role offers you different opportunities, you have to be true to that," he said.

"You should never bring your personal aspirations into what is required from a film."



In "Batti Gull Meter Chalu", Shahid is playing a lawyer from a small town in the film.

"'Batti...' will be very different from my 'Padmaavat' character of Rawal Ratan Singh. I'm thankful if people think the bar (of performance) has been raised. I need to raise it every time," said.

"Batti Gull Meter Chalu", which also features Shraddha Kapoor and Yami Gautam, addresses the issue of electricity bills.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Several retired armed forces officers today staged a protest here against "coercive steps" against Army officers, including Major Aditya Kumar, who have been made an accused in the Shopian firing case, in which three civilians were killed.

Three civilians were killed when Army personnel fired at a stone-pelting mob in Ganovpora village in Shopian, prompting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti to order an inquiry into the incident.

The FIR was registered against personnel of 10 Garhwal Rifles, including Major Kumar, under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Ranbir Penal Code.

Participants at the protest held at Azad Maidan in south Mumbai included Lieutenant General Kuldeep Singh Brar (retd), who led Operation Blue Star in 1984.

The veterans gathered at the Azad maidan to extend their support to the serving army officials and demanded that the Jammu and Kashmir government withdraw the FIR.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court today restrained the Jammu and Kashmir Police from taking any "coercive steps" against Army officers including Major Aditya Kumar, who have been made an accused in the Shopian firing case in which three civilians were killed.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud also asked the counsel for Lieutenant Colonel Karamveer Singh, the father of Major Aditya Kumar, to share the copies of his petition with the office of Attorney General K K Venugopal and the Jammu and Kashmir government.

Besides seeking Venugopal's assistance in dealing with the matter, the bench asked the state government to file its response to the plea within two weeks.

As an interim measure, it directed the state government not to take any coercive steps against Army officials.

The apex court had on February 9 agreed to hear the plea of Singh seeking to quash the FIR against his son.

Singh has said his son, a Major in 10 Garhwal Rifles, was "wrongly and arbitrarily" named in the FIR as the incident relates to an Army convoy that was on bona fide military duty in an area under the AFSPA and was isolated by an "unruly and deranged" mob pelting stones, causing damage to military vehicles.

Three civilians were killed when Army personnel fired at a stone-pelting mob in Ganovpora village in Shopian, prompting the chief minister to order an inquiry into the incident.

The FIR was registered against personnel of 10 Garhwal Rifles, including Major Kumar, under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Ranbir Penal Code.

The petitioner has sought directions for guidelines to protect the rights of soldiers and adequate compensation so that no Army personnel is harassed by initiation of criminal proceedings for bona fide actions in exercise of their duties.

It has also sought registration of FIR against people involved in terrorist activities which had caused damage to property of the government.

Karamveer Singh has said in his plea that his son's intention was to save Army personnel and property and the fire was inflicted "only to impair and provide a safe escape from a savage and violent mob engaged in terrorist activity".

The unruly behaviour of the "unlawful assembly" escalated and they got hold of a Junior Commissioned Officer and were in the process of lynching him when warning shots were fired to disperse the violent mob and protect public property, the plea has said.

Singh has also referred to last year's incident of a mob lynching DSP Mohd Ayub Pandith to apprise the top court about the situation in the state and the condition in which Army officials were working to control violent mobs in Kashmir.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Army said today that the search operation was underway in its Sunjwan camp, which was attacked by a group of suspected JeM terrorists, killing six persons, including five soldiers.

Three suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists involved in the attack were killed in the retaliatory action by the Army inside the camp and a large quantity of arms and ammunition was seized from them.

"The search operation is still on (at the camp)," Jammu- based Army public relations officer Lt Col Devender Anand told PTI.

A group of heavily armed men struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry before dawn on February 10. Five Army men, including two Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), were killed in the attack.

Several blasts were heard inside the camp late last evening, breaking a lull after the initial exchange of fire, but the Army said the blasts were the result of sanitisation operation and there was no fresh contact with terrorists.

Parliamentary Affairs minister Abdul Rehman Veeri told the Legislative Assembly that the operation was in the final stages.

He said that the injured Army personnel included a Lieutenant Colonel and a Major.

The latest attack on the Army camp took place nearly 15 months after the Jammu region was hit by a similar attack.

The last terror attack in the Jammu region had taken place on November 29, 2016, when terrorists stormed the Army's Nagrota camp on the outskirts of Jammu city, killing seven Army personnel including two officers.

Three terrorists were gunned down in the operation.

The terrorists had struck before dawn on Saturday and managed to sneak into the camp from the rear side of the base after a brief exchange of fire with the sentry on its periphery.

"The terrorists entered the family accommodation complex after which quick response teams cordoned off the area and isolated the terrorists, who are holed up in a few houses (inside the camp)," an official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Oil prices, long battered by a global glut in supply, have been rising recently as the market returns to balance on the back of a landmark deal between producers to throttle output, but surging shale production in the United States could throw a spanner in the works, OPEC said today.

Crude prices fell as low as USD 35 per barrel at the start of 2016, but they have been rising since, reaching a three-year high of more than USD 70 per barrel last month, "on signs that production adjustments by OPEC and non-OPEC participating countries are balancing the market," the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries wrote in its latest monthly market report.

Strong economic data -- notably from the US and Germany -- as well as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have also helped support prices, the cartel said.

But it cautioned that "surging US production remained a concern".

OPEC countries and other oil-producing countries, such as Russia, agreed at the end of 2016 to cut back production to combat the global glut in oil.

At a meeting in Vienna at the end of November, they agreed to extend that deal until the end of 2018.

But with crude prices on the rise, shale producers, particularly in the US -- who are not party to the deal and whose overheads are lower than the oil majors -- are ramping up output to cash in on the boom.

And that, in turn, could jeopardise the delicate balance that the market has now reached, OPEC said.

Shale production is controversial, because in order to extract oil and gas, a high-pressure mixture of water, sand and chemicals is blasted deep underground to release hydrocarbons trapped between layers of rock.

And environmentalists argue that the process -- known as fracking, or hydraulic fracturing technology -- may contaminate ground water and even cause small earthquakes.

Turning to the outlook for global oil demand, OPEC predicted that it would continue to grow this year as economic recovery gathers pace.

The cartel projected that global demand for oil would rise to 98.6 million barrels per day in 2018, from 97.01 million bpd last year.

That represented an upward revision from earlier forecasts and "mainly reflected the positive economic outlook," OPEC said.

Transportation fuels -- namely gasoline, jet fuel and diesel oil -- were anticipated to provide the bulk of oil demand growth in 2018, propelled by steady vehicle sales in the US, China and India, the cartel said.

And another factor would be "capacity additions, as well as expansions in petrochemical sector projects... mainly in the US, and to a lesser extent in China."



At the same time, a number of factors were also expected to weigh on oil demand, such as substitution with other fuels, a steady increase in efficiency gains, and a reduction in subsidies.

"Finally, the degree of digitalisation and technological development in various sectors is also expected to relatively cap oil demand growth in 2018," OPEC said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Fighting has only worsened in Syria in the week since the United Nations called for a month-long ceasefire, the UN's humanitarian coordinator in Damascus warned today.

The UN made an urgent plea last Tuesday for warring sides in Syria to temporarily lay down their arms to allow for aid deliveries to desperate civilians.

The UN Security Council failed to back the appeal last week but was to consider a new draft on a 30-day pause today.

Hours before the talks, the UN's humanitarian coordinator in Syria, Ali al-Zaatari, renewed the plea.

"Since our statement of 6 February, when the UN representatives in Syria called for a one-month cessation of hostilities, the situation has worsened," Zaatari said in an emailed statement.

"We are witnessing some of the worst fighting of the entire conflict, with reports of hundreds of civilian deaths and injuries, massive displacement and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities," he added.

Over the past week, Syrian government planes have pounded the opposition-held enclave of Eastern Ghouta near Damascus, as rebels fired rockets and mortars down on the capital.

A Turkish-led offensive in northwest Syria has continued to displace families along the northern border.

"We keep stressing our message, that this terrible suffering of the Syrian people must stop. They have already borne the brunt of this brutal conflict," Zaatari said.

"I am again appealing to all parties, and those with influence over them, to listen to us and to the affected population: end this intolerable human suffering," he said.

Negotiations are to begin in New York on Monday on a new draft presented by Sweden and Kuwait demanding a 30-day ceasefire and an end to sieges, and diplomats said it could quickly come to a vote at the Security Council.

But it remained unclear whether Russia - which has repeatedly used its veto to protect its ally President Bashar al-Assad - would block the action.

More than 13.1 million Syrians are in need of humanitarian aid, including 6.1 million who have been displaced within the country during the nearly seven-year war.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The European Union Delegation here is organising a series of tech events across four cities, including a hackathon challenge in Bengaluru, which aims to imagine new applications that a smart city could offer to its citizens.

The hackathon will be hosted at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) on February 16, the EU Delegation in New Delhi said in a statement.

"This initiative is just one example of how we are implementing the decision taken at the India-EU Summit held on October 6, 2017 to broaden EU-India's cooperation on ICT standardisation," Ambassador of the European Union to India Tomasz Kozlowski was quoted as saying in the statement.

The winning team of the hackathon will be awarded a trip to Estonia, supported jointly by the European Union and Estonia, to attend the Estonian flagship startup and technology event -- Latitude59, it said.

Four tutorials (Delhi - February 12; Hyderabad - February 14; Bengaluru - February 15 and Chandigarh - February 19) are also being organised.

The hackathon will familiarise Indian developers



especially from startups and academia - with emerging global standards for machine-to-machine communications (M2M) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

These events are being organised in cooperation with Indian and European partners under an EU-funded project supporting cooperation between India and the EU on ICT standardisation.

According to the statement, "This hackathon aims to imagine new applications that a smart city could offer to its citizens, its elected officials or its technical and administrative services in a multi-domain vision based on the oneM2M standard.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The suspected mastermind of France's "heist of the century" went on trial today nearly half a century after robbers tunnelled through sewers to snatch the equivalent of 29 million euros from a bank vault.

The 1976 robbery at a Societe Generale branch in the southern city of Nice confounded the police for decades.

Only one person was ever charged with the crime, with most of the gang disappearing, and the loot - 46 million francs, about 29 million euros (USD 36 million) in today's money - was never found.

But in 2010, the case took an unexpected twist when a career criminal wrote a book in which he portrayed himself as the heist's mastermind.

He used a pen name but investigators quickly concluded the writer was Jacques Cassandri, a key mafia figure in Marseille, where he is now standing trial.

He had assumed he was safe because the crime was too old to be prosecuted, but Cassandri is being charged with laundering the millions from the heist - a crime for which France has no statute of limitations.

Police found the manuscript on Cassandri's computer, and his children later confessed that their father had often bragged about the robbery.

He eventually admitted to orchestrating the intricately planned job that involved at least six people and 30 tanks of acetylene to fuel the welding torches used to cut into safes and safety deposit boxes.

He said he got only the equivalent of about two million euros, which he quickly spent.

But an investigating magistrate was not convinced, saying Cassandri was broke in 1976 but now sits atop an empire that includes several businesses and real estate.

"This book is a novel, and a novel is not a piece of evidence," one of Cassandri's lawyers has argued.

But Cassandri and several of his relatives are facing a series of questions on his business dealings, with prosecutors also alleging social security fraud and a real estate scam in Corsica.

It is not his first time in court, having been arrested in the early 1970s when police broke up the "French Connection" heroin trade centred in Marseille.

In 1994 he and his wife were sentenced to four years in prison for pimping.

Until his book appeared in 2010, police had assumed the Nice heist was the work of Albert Spaggiari, who was arrested a few months afterwards.

The team spent weeks preparing the robbery, using rubber rafts in the sewers to access the spot where they dug their eight-metre (26-foot) tunnel, installing hundreds of metres of electrical cables to provide lights.

Racy pictures of women were hung along the walls of the tunnel, which were reinforced with concrete, and police later found remains of meals, wine bottles and packs of cigarettes.

Breaking in on a weekend, they took their time going through nearly 200 safe-deposit boxes in the vault as well as the bank's five-ton safe.

Cash, jewelry and gold bars were discovered missing when employees finally realised what had happened today morning - the robbers had welded the door to the vault shut.

Inside they left a message on the wall: "Sans arme, sans violence et sans haine" - Without weapons, without violence and without hate.

An AFP report at the time told of hundreds of panicky clients mobbing the bank, desperate to know if their wealth was safe.

One woman had to be brought around with a glass of brandy after she fainted upon hearing her jewels were missing.

Spaggiari escaped a few months after his arrest by jumping out of a window at the Marseille courthouse where an accomplice was waiting on a motorcycle.

He was never caught again, eventually dying of throat cancer in 1989.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)US President Donald Trump today unveiled a USD 4 trillion annual budget for the fiscal 2019 beginning October 1, proposing USD 256 million in civilian assistance and USD 80 million in military aid to Pakistan.

The proposal of aid to Pakistan comes weeks after Trump administration suspended nearly USD 2 billion in security assistance to Islamabad due to its inability to take action against terrorist groups operating from its soil.

The White House has said it would consider lifting the freeze if it sees action by Pakistan against terrorist groups.

The budgetary proposal says that the military aid depends on Pakistan taking action against terrorist safe havens.

"The budget requests USD 256 million for Pakistan in economic and other assistance to help increase stability, promote economic growth and create opportunities for US businesses," said the annual budgetary proposals sent by the White House to the Congress.

"In addition, the Budget requests USD 80 million in Foreign Military Financing assistance to enhance Pakistan's counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency capabilities, contingent on Pakistan taking appropriate action to expand cooperation in areas where US-Pakistan interests converge and to address areas of divergence, in line with the administration's South Asia strategy," the White House said.

The budget furthers the US goal of a stable and secure South Asia by supporting the Afghan government and security forces in their fight against the Taliban insurgents and jihadist terrorist organisations such as al-Qaeda and ISIS.

It requests more than USD 5 billion for continued US training and assistance for the Afghan security forces and would enable US forces to conduct counter-terrorism operations to ensure that the region cannot be used by jihadist, terrorist groups to plot transnational attacks against the US homeland, citizens overseas, or allies and partners.

"The budget also continues to include funding to support America's partnership with Pakistan," it said.

The budget's more than USD 630 million for civilian assistance supports the President's new strategy to empower the people of Afghanistan to take ownership of their future, the White House said.

In addition, the budget strengthens and sustains improvements in education, health, governance and other sectors that are essential for securing a stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

It also allows the US to honour the pledge made at the Brussels conference on Afghanistan, which anticipated gradually declining assistance levels, it added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two Kenyan nationals were nabbed from a suburban five-star with gold biscuits worth Rs 6.5 crore thanks to three staffers of the hotel who alerted police, an official said today.

The incident occurred last night when the duo, including a crew member of a Kenyan airline, were checking-in at the hotel in Andheri (East) near the Sahar international airport, a police official said.

As the duo were not cooperating with the hotel staff, the staffers grew suspicious and informed Sahar police station.

A police team arrived at the spot and apprehended the crew member, identified as Ali Abdullah (29), the official said.

He said the police found 156 gold biscuits, worth Rs 6.5 crore, concealed in a specially made knee-cap and a waist belt worn under Abdullah's trouser.

Police also apprehended Abdullah's accomplice, Ali Hussain (26) from the spot.

"The duo and the seized gold biscuits were handed over to the Customs officials for further investigation," said DCP Zone VIII, Anil Kumbhare.

Three staffers of the hotel were today felicitated by police, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two US diplomats were involved in an accident while climbing Mexico's highest summit -- the inactive Citlaltepetl volcano -- authorities said, adding that bad weather forced them to postpone air rescue efforts.

Officials did not specify the exact roles of the unidentified diplomats, one of whom suffered a fall, forcing the other to seek help from the US embassy.

"In coordination with Mexico's mountain rescue brigade and the United States embassy, action is being taken to rescue two diplomats missing on Citlaltepetl," the civil protection authority for the state of Puebla said in a statement.

"They did not advise any authorities, municipal or state, about the route or date of their ascent," a local government source told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Officials said two helicopters were dispatched but bad weather prevented them from reaching the climbers.

Emergency personnel set off on foot to camp with them and wait until conditions improved -- or failing that, to evacuate the injured climber on stretcher.

Best known as Pico de Orizaba, the 5,610-meter (18,400- foot) mountain on the border between the states of Puebla and Veracruz attracts professional climbers from around the world as well as poorly-equipped amateurs.

Last November, authorities recovered the body of an American mountaineer from the same summit, following a risky rescue operation which injured one worker.

In 2015, the mountain gained notoriety following the discovery of two unidentified mummified bodies at an elevation of 5,200 meters -- which have not been recovered due to their precarious location -- and a third which is now in a local museum.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi will meet Indian government officials, regulators and company employees during his India visit on February 22-23.

This will be the maiden visit of Khosrowshahi to India. The former Expedia executive was named CEO of Uber in August last year.

An Uber spokesperson confirmed that Khosrowshahi will be in India on February 22 and 23.

The spokesperson added that during his India trip, Khosrowshahi will meet high-ranking government officials, regulators, business partners, and employees.

He will also address the students at IIT-Delhi. "We are really excited to welcome Dara in India. This is a key market for Uber globally, and Dara's visit is another testament to our commitment to serving riders and driver partners in the country," Uber India and South Asia President Amit Jain told PTI.

India is one of the key markets for Uber. It is locked in an intense battle for leadership with SoftBank-backed Ola in India and has a presence in 29 Indian cities. Interestingly, SoftBank is now an investor in Uber as well.

Uber has operations in over 80 countries. Khosrowshahi, as the new CEO, has been tasked with turning around things for the troubled US-based cab aggregator.

The 48-year old executive is working on repairing Uber's image, boosting employee morale and turning business profitable for the world's most valued startup.

Khosrowshahi takes over the operations from Travis Kalanick, who quit in June last year under intense pressure from some of Uber's key investors.

Troubles started for Uber after a former employee wrote a blog post alleging sexual harassment and sexism at the firm. Matters came to a head when reports emerged that a top Uber executive had allegedly obtained medical records of a 26- year-old woman raped by an Uber driver in India in 2014.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The British and Irish prime ministers are heading to Belfast as hopes rise for an end to a political stalemate that has left Northern Ireland without a government for more than a year.

UK Prime Minister Theresa May and her Irish counterpart, Leo Varadkar, are due to hold talks with the main political parties in Northern Ireland's collapsed power-sharing administration.

May's office says today's trip is aimed at encouraging the pro-British Democratic Unionist Party and Irish nationalists of Sinn Fein to resolve their differences.

The Catholic-Protestant power-sharing administration has been suspended since January 2017, after breaking down amid scandal over a botched green-energy project.

The parties have blamed each other for the impasse that threatens power-sharing, the key achievement of Northern Ireland's 1998 peace accord.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Thane district administration today sealed 75 unauthorised residential structures that had come up on land belonging to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority in Kasheli and Kalher areas here.

Collector Mahendra Kalyankar, who supervised the action, said that the process of registering criminal offences against the builders who had constructed these sturcures without requisite permissions was underway with the Bhiwandi police.

Some of the structures had been built after destroying mangroves, officials said, adding that none of the structures that were sealed today were occupied.

Sub-Divisional Officer Santosh Thite said the buildings which were under construction would be razed while those which had been completed would be seized by the revenue department.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh today directed the tourism department undertake the arrangements for the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Sikh Guru Nanak Dev on a war footing.

Opposition leaders and the SGPC president, however, did not turn up for the first meeting of the organising committee.

The department had sent special invites to SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal, MPs Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa and Naresh Gujral, SGPC president Gobind Singh Longowal, state BJP unit chief Vijay Sampla and AAP MP Bhagwant Mann, an official release said.

However, they did not attend the first review meeting of the organising committee, which had been convened to chalk out the detailed programme of the celebrations of the 550th 'Parkash Purab' of the first Sikh Guru, it said.

Tourism and Culture minister Navjot Singh Sidhu said it was unfortunate that the opposition chose to politicise such an important religious occasion by boycotting the meeting.

Guru Nanak Dev's 550th birth anniversary is an occasion that requires all parties to rise above their political considerations, he said.

MLA Dera Baba Nanak Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa said that by abstaining from the meeting, the opposition leaders had sought to undermine the ideology of Guru Nanak Dev, who propagated the message of love and communal harmony.

The chief minister, however, urged the department to continue to work with all political parties to ensure that the event is a huge success, as it was of importance for Punjab and its people.

He appealed to all opposition members to cooperate with the government for the event and asked Sidhu to connect with opposition leaders in this regard.

The meeting also authorised the tourism minister to set up a sub-committee to look into different aspects of the celebrations and submit its report at the earliest.

The chief minister said that with just about 18 months to go for the event, the work needs to be taken up on war footing.

No stone should be left unturned to ensure the success of this pious event, which we were fortunate to be celebrating in our life time, he said.

The meeting was attended by scholars, philosophers and dignitaries.

The chief Minister asked them to submit their proposals and suggestions to the tourism department to enable the state government to finalise the modalities for the event.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Public sector United Bank of India has reported a net loss of Rs 637.53 crore during third quarter ended December 2017 on dip in investment income and a substantial rise in NPA provisioning.

During same period of previous fiscal, the bank had registered a net profit of Rs 64.10 crore.

"Owing to a drop in trading profit (nearly Rs 375 crore), growth in depreciation on investments (428 per cent) on account on unfavourable market conditions and spike in NPA provisioning by about 95 per cent (Rs 470 crore) during the period, the overall profitability has been adversely affected," the bank said in a statement.

Total income of the bank also fell to Rs 2,483.01 crore during the October-December period of 2017-18 from Rs 3,086.06 crore in the same period of 2016-17.

Net interest income was down for the quarter at Rs 347.94 crore, as against Rs 360.98 crore.

Asset quality of the bank worsened with gross non- performing assets (NPAs) hitting 20.10 per cent (Rs 13720.69 crore) of the gross advances as on December 31, 2017 against 15.98 per cent (Rs 10,845.31 crore).

Net NPAs or bad loans too spiked to 11.96 per cent (Rs 7,365.14 crore) from 10.62 per cent (Rs 6,729.89 crore).

A higher NPA ratio required the bank to keep aside Rs 964.07 crore as provision for the quarter, against Rs 494.52 crore it has kept aside for year ago third quarter.

Among others, the board of directors of the bank approved the United Bank of India-Employee Stock Purchase Scheme 2018 (UBI-ESPS 2018).

The Kolkata-headquartered United Bank of India said it has provided Rs 167.44 crore for bad loans under insolvency process during this quarter against seven accounts.

In all, it has to make Rs 394.13 crore of additional provisioning, of which Rs 262.75 crore is to be provided for during 2017-18.

Bank's total deposits remained almost flat at Rs 12,5579 crore, however, savings deposits increased by Rs 220 crore from a year ago.

Advances were up at Rs 68,250 crore in third quarter this fiscal from Rs 67,866 crore.

"The advance portfolio has expanded by about Rs 384 crore mainly due to growth in MSME advance by 17.70 per cent and growth in housing loan and car loan segment by 23.63 per cent and 31.31 per cent, respectively.

Stock of United Bank of India closed 0.66 per cent up at Rs 15.25 on BSE.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.): On his first official visit to the city, U.S. Ambassador to India, Kenneth I Juster called on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami at the Secretariat here today and held discussions on US-India bilateral relations and economic development.

He was accompanied by Consul General, Robert G Burgess and senior Consulate officials, sources said.

Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan and Finance department Additional Chief Secretary K Shanmugam were among those present on the occasion.

"Such an honour to meet @CMOTamilNadu Edappadi Palaniswami on my first official visit to #Chennai. Great discussion on #USIndia bilateral relations and economic development. #USIndiaTrade #USIndiaBusiness #first100 days", he tweeted.

Juster later visited the Ice House, which was a Centre for the US-India trade in the 1840s.

"On his 1st official visit to #Chennai, Ambassador Kenneth I Juster @USAMBIndia visited the iconic #IceHouse which was a center for #USIndia Trade in the 1840s", the US Consulate Chennai said in a tweet.

The Ambassador also tweeted on his visit to the Ice House and shared some pictures.

"A wonderful visit with #CGCChennai to the #IceHouse, which in the 1840s stored ice shipped from the US to #SouthIndia. A great example of the long history of US-South India trade.#USIndiaDosti #CulturalDiplomacy", he tweeted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Vice-president Venkaiah Naidu will arrive here on February 16 on a one-day visit.

Naidu would deliver the Chithira Thirunal Memorial lecture at a function to be held at Kannakakunnu palace, official sources said.

Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma was the last king of the erstwhile princely state of Travancore.

He is known for initiating various people-friendly measures during his reign including the historic temple entry proclamation.

The proclamation allowed the entry of devotees cutting across caste lines into temples including the famed Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple here in the erstwhile Travancore region.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh today sought four weeks time from the Supreme Court to file his reply on a CBI's plea seeking a clarification on the nature of sanction needed from a state government to probe any offence committed in the state.

A bench of justices R K Agrawal and A M Sapre allowed Singh to file his reply in four weeks and adjourned the matter.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Singh, said that he needs some time to file the reply on the investigating agency's plea.

The bench adjourned the matter for March 16.

The CBI had challenged a limited part of the order of the Delhi High Court passed in the case of Virbhadra Singh on March 31, 2017, in which it had said that the consent issue will be adjudiciated by the trial court.

The agency had said that it has challenged only the limited issue of consent in the high court verdict.

The CBI has said that section 6 of the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946, does not talk about the nature of consent and, therefore, it needs a clarification on the issue as it would affect its power to investigate offences which are committed in the states.

Section 6 of DSPSE Act deals with the consent of a state government for exercising of powers and jurisdiction by CBI officials.

The CBI had contended before the high court that there was a general consent granted by the Himachal Pradesh government on August 24, 1990, to probe the offences of central government employees in the territory of the state.

Virbhadra Singh, on the other hand, had contended in the high court that the consent order does not take within its scope a central minister, who served as a public servant in Delhi under the central government.

He had said that he was not an official "of a central government department or any other central institution located in the territory of Himachal Pradesh".

The high court had, however, said it will be for the trial court to look into the consent order aspect, when the charge sheet was filed as it would then emerge as to what was the material/evidence collected by the investigating agency that was sought to be relied upon by the prosecution.

"The issue whether such consent had been obtained generally, or specifically, as well as the issue as to what is the effect of the investigation conducted, if any, without obtaining the prior consent of the government of Himachal Pradesh, cannot be determined in the present proceedings and would fall for consideration, if and when a charge sheet is filed before the learned special judge," it had said.

In the same order, the high court had refused to quash the disproportionate assets case filed by the CBI against Virbhadra Singh and his wife, saying there was no basis to claim that the FIR was the result of any "political vendetta".

It had vacated the Himachal Pradesh High Court's October 1, 2015 interim order restraining the CBI from arresting, interrogating or filing a charge sheet in the case without the court's permission.

It had also turned down the question framed by the Himachal Pradesh High Court on whether the permission of the Speaker of the state assembly was mandatory before registration of an FIR.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Women and Child Development (WCD) Ministry will seek a change in the CrPC to allow filing of complaints of child sexual abuse many years after the crime.

The development came after a meeting last month between WCD minister Maneka Gandhi and a 53-year-old Indian-origin scientist from Canada, a survivor of child sexual abuse, who asked for legislative amendments to allow victims to report such crimes even years later.

"We are in the process of writing to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) asking them to amend Section 473 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). So, time limitation will go away," Secretary, WCD, R K Shrivastava, today said at a press meet.

He said that the ministry will pursue the matter with the MHA as it has been receiving "several complaints of incidents that have occurred many years ago".

While officials did not comment on the exact amendment being suggested, Gandhi told reporters, "The substance of it will be that if you have been molested at some point in time when you were a minor, then you are still entitled to get justice."



She, however, said that there could be a problem revisiting old cases of crime.

"Only problem I envisage is that how do you prove it? (But) The best we can hope is that people get frightened that they could land in trouble," Gandhi said.

The WCD ministry has also instructed the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) to look into the issue.

Section 468 of the CrPC lays down time limitations for filing a complaint after an offence has taken place, also called the Statute of Limitations.

If the offence is punishable with a fine then it needs to be reported within six months. A crime carrying a term not exceeding one year has a period of limitation of a year.

If a crime is punishable between one and three years, then it has to be reported within three years and for anything beyond a three-year jail term, there is no time restriction for reporting the crime.

Section 473 of the CrPC, to which the ministry has sought changes, allows a court to take cognisance of an offence even after the expiry of the period of limitation provided "the delay has been properly explained or that it is necessary to do so in the interests of justice."



The 53-year-old scientist was subjected to sexual abuse for seven years between the age of six and 13 years.

The Prevention of Child Sexual Offence Act (POCSO), 2012, is unclear on whether a survivor of child sexual abuse can report the crime after the age of 18 years.

Moreover, the POCSO cannot be applied retrospectively to cases prior to its enactment in 2012 and such cases fall under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

When it comes to punishment for rape (IPC's section 376), there is no statute of limitations.

However, it was only after the Criminal Amendment Act of 2013, that the definition of rape was expanded to include forced digital penetration and oral sex (both common in child sexual abuse).

Until then, these crimes fell under the molestation law (IPC's section 354) which has a maximum punishment of two years and therefore, unlike penile penetration, has a statute of limitations where by it has to be reported within three years of the offence being committed.

While the scientist approached the Chennai police last year to file a complaint, all her efforts came to a nought.

She says enabling latter-day reporting can prevent many more children from falling prey to sexual crimes.

"Both the policy and the general attitude (of the police) is that you can't file a complaint, if you are an adult survivor. A lot of child abusers are repeat offenders. For me, it is not only a matter of personal justice but also a matter of protecting children of today from repeat molesters," she had told PTI in an interview.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The World Bank would draft a five-year plan to tackle the flood and erosion problem of Assam, its country head Junaid Kamal Ahmed said today.

Ahmed said it would draft the plan based on latest technologies for a holistic approach to tackle the problem, and include initiatives for constructive use of the excess water generated by the river during monsoon, apart from mitigating flood and erosion.

The World Bank will also actively consider how to improve navigation facility in river Brahmaputra, Ahmed told Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

The international financial institution would consider replicating the technology of a Netherland-based firm it utilised to control the Huang-He river of China, in case of taming the Brahmaputra as well, he said.

Sonowal told the World Bank delegation that the flood and erosion caused by river Brahmaputra has become a major challenge for the state, and that proper management of the excess water during monsoon and channelising was the call of the hour.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)President Xi Jinping has visited a satellite launch site in China's southwest Sichuan province, days ahead of the launch of three satellites for Chinese navigation system BeiDou, seen as a rival to America's GPS.

Xi, also the general secretary of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC)'s Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, inspected the preparation work for the launch at the site's command centre on Saturday.

He discussed with scientists and technicians their research, work and lives. They were told to keep pursuing precision and perfection to ensure the success of the launch of three satellites for BeiDou which is being developed as a competitor to America's Global Positioning System (GPS).

Xi also extended festival greetings to all officers and soldiers of the People's Liberation Army and the armed police forces on the occasion of the Spring Festival, or Chinese Lunar New Year, which falls on February 16.

Through a video call, Xi talked with soldiers stationed at an island in the Xisha area in the South China Sea and asked them what they had prepared to celebrate the upcoming Spring Festival, state-run Xinhua agency reported.

China claims almost all of the resource-rich South China Sea and has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region.

Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

Xi met with the base's senior officers and asked them to work with more commitment and be steadfast in building China's strength in aerospace to create more "Chinese miracles".

He stressed military training under combat conditions to make it world-class and improve China's strength in aerospace.

Noting that technology was a core combat capability, Xi called for intensified work to make breakthroughs in core and key technologies so that China could take the initiative in international competition. He also emphasised on the political loyalty of the armed forces, the report said.

Comprehensive and strict guidance and management of the armed forces should be conducted to ensure the absolute loyalty, purity and reliability of the forces, Xi added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)By Kirsti KnolleVIENNA (Reuters) - Austria has handed over its findings on suspect money flows related to its 2003 purchase of Airbus Eurofighter jets to international bodies including the U.S. Department of Justice, the Austrian defence ministry said on Monday.The ministry said it handed over the documents about two months ago."Foreign authorities were informed about the results of the defence ministry's investigation in the context of the international fight against corruption. The Department of Justice has also been informed," it said.U.S. Department of Justice spokeswoman Nicole Navas ...By Amanda CooperLONDON (Reuters) - Oil rose on Monday, recouping some of last week's steep losses as global equities steadied after their biggest one-week decline in two years.Brent crude futures were up nearly 2 percent, or 92 cents, at $63.71 a barrel by 1442 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures rose $1.10 to $60.30.A weaker dollar helped to boost oil by making dollar-priced crude cheaper for holders of other currencies. European shares took their lead from Friday's rise on Wall Street, while other commodities including copper and gold also strengthened. Consumption remains ...By Jessica Resnick-Ault and Ayenat MersieNEW YORK (Reuters) - Oil rose on Monday, as it began to recoup some of last week's steep losses as global equities steadied after their biggest one-week decline in two years.Brent crude futures rose 67 cents, or 1.1 percent, to $63.46 a barrel by 10:55 a.m. EST. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures for March delivery rose 77 cents to $59.97 a barrel, a 1.3 percent gain. Earlier in the session, U.S. crude rallied to $60.83. A weaker dollar helped to support oil by making dollar-priced crude cheaper for holders of other currencies. The crude ...By Maytaal AngelLONDON (Reuters) - Tata Steel will finance the repair of a blast furnace at Britain's largest steelworks in Port Talbot, Wales, extending its life by seven years and soothing concerns about its commitment to Europe's steel sector, four sources told Reuters.India's Tata Steel signed a preliminary deal last year to merge its European steel assets with those of Germany's Thyssenkrupp in a move driven chiefly by a need to address steelmaking overcapacity in Europe.Fully relining a blast furnace typically costs over 150 million pounds ($200 million) and gives the furnace an ...Tata Global Beverages Limited (TGBL) has approached Hector Beverages with a proposal to buy out their firm along with its popular drinks brand, Paper Boat. According to reports, Tatas are keen on Paper Boat to spice up their portfolio and move beyond their tea, coffee and water range. The process is still at a nascent stage with no guarantee on how it will unfold.

Hector Beverages was founded in 2010 by Coca Cola executives, Neeraj Kakkar and Neeraj Biyani. Their efforts to commercialise Indian drinks such as aam panna and jal jeera and promote them instead of fizzy drinks that are widely available, along with the unique packaging led to the popularity and distinct identity of Paper Boat. According to a report in The Economic Times, an official who wishes to remain anonymous said, "Paper Boat is one brand that they are keen on as it already has created a significant brand equity."

Kakkar, however told the newspaper that there have been no discussion with TGBL or anybody else and they are, in fact, dedicated to building a long-term, sustainable and independent business. Tata Group spokesperson has declined to comment.

The FMCG company has as many as 5 early stage investors including NR Narayana Murthy's Catamaran Investment, who along with Sequoia Capital and China's Hill House Capital put Rs 300 crore into the company.

As of now, 85 per cent of the company's business comes from the top six cities but the company has now tied up with Indo Nissan to take the beverage across to smaller cities. The company is still making losses and is hoping to rake in Rs 120 crore inDownload BT Podcast

Modi takes India story to leaders in Gulf countries

Modi is visiting the United Arab Emirates for the second time after his 2015 trip. He met UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and discussed ways to expand bilateral cooperation in trade, defence and people-to-people contacts. Modi also met business leaders from Gulf Cooperation Council countries and shared his vision of "new India" with them. He arrived in Abu Dhabi and held wide-ranging talks with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the two sides signed five agreements, including a historic pact awarding a consortium of Indian oil companies a 10 per cent stake in offshore oil concession.

ONGC, partners acquire 10% stake in Abu Dhabi oilfield for $600 million

ONGC Videsh Ltd and its partners have acquired a 10 per cent stake in a large offshore oilfield in Abu Dhabi for $600 million, the first time any Indian company has set foot in oil-rich Emirates. OVL, the overseas arm of state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC), Indian Oil Corp (IOC) and a unit of Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL), paid a signing amount of $600 million for a 10 per cent stake in Abu Dhabi National Oil Co's (ADNOC) 40-year Lower Zakum Concession, Offshore Abu Dhabi.



IMF's Lagarde says market swings aren't worrying, but wants reforms

Sharp swings in global financial markets in the past few days are not worrying since economic growth is strong but reforms are still needed to avert future crises, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund has said as reported by Reuters. Christine Lagarde who was speaking at a conference on global business and social trends in Dubai, also said economies were supported by plenty of financing available. She did not give details of the reforms she wanted to see beyond saying authorities needed to move to regulation of activities, not entities.



Vodafone, Idea might start afresh with a new brand name

Vodafone India and Idea Cellular, India's telcos that are merging, are working on a new name and brand identity for the merged entity, which may come into effect a year after the transaction closes, as reported by the Economic Times. Vodafone and Idea are chalking out a new positioning that will attract customers and retain the recall value associated with both the parent companies.



Income Tax panel insists on Rs 110 crore tax demand on Flipkart

An income tax panel refused to stay a demand of Rs 110 crore on Flipkart, India's largest online retailing platform, after it was asked to reclassify discounts and marketing spend as capital expenditure as reported by the Economic Times. Rival Amazon, is among the entities that face a similar liability. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) in Bengaluru asked Flipkart to deposit Rs 55 crore and provide bank guarantees to the tune of Rs 55 crore by February 28. While the tax assessed is for 2015-16, similar demands may be made for subsequent years. Hearings will continue after February 28.

Download BT PodcastLast November, the Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan had sent alarm bells ringing when he said that India's annual petrol consumption could jump from 30 billion litres now to 50 billion litres by 2030. And annual diesel consumption in the world's third-biggest oil consuming nation could go up by 67% to hit 150 billion litres in the same time frame. So the news that a group led by ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL) picked up a 10% stake in a large offshore oilfield in Abu Dhabi over the weekend is a welcome one, indeed. It's also historic because this is the first time that Indian oil and gas companies have been given a stake in Abu Dhabi's hydrocarbon resources.

OVL, the overseas arm of state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) along with Indian Oil Corp (IOC) and a unit of Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) have coughed up a signing amount of $600 million for the stake in Abu Dhabi National Oil Co's (ADNOC) 40-year Lower Zakum offshore concession. Incidentally, the Indian consortium is the first to acquire a stake in it.

"The current production of this field is about 400,000 barrels of oil per day (20 million tonnes per annum) and Indian consortium's annual share shall be about 2 million tonnes," said OVL, India's largest international oil and gas company, having 39 projects in 18 countries. The field is to achieve plateau target of 450,000 barrels of oil per day by 2025. ADNOC is in the process of finalising potential partners for the remaining portion of the 40% stake earmarked for international oil and gas companies in the offshore concession, while retaining a 60% stake. The concession will be operated by ADNOC Offshore on behalf of all concession partners.

This landmark contract was signed in Abu Dhabi last evening in presence of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The offshore concession in favour of the Indian consortium has taken our bilateral engagement in the oil and gas sector to a new level, which befits the comprehensive strategic partnership between our two countries. I am happy to note that we have progressed from a buyer-seller relationship to an era of mutual investments in the oil and gas sector," said Modi on the occasion.

The concession deal, which has a term of 40 years with an effective date of March 9, 2018, "will help India meet its growing demand for energy and refined products, create opportunities for ADNOC to increase its market share in a key growth market, and build a solid foundation as ADNOC explores potential international investments, particularly focused on downstream opportunities," said ADNOC Group Chief Executive Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, adding that "This is an attractive and strategic agreement for both parties that will deliver competitive returns and long term growth opportunities."

In a similar vein, ONGC Group Chairman Shashi Shanker said that the agreement "reflects the vision of the Prime Minister of India towards strengthening hydrocarbon linkages with the UAE on a win-win basis" and hoped that it would pave the way for further opportunities for Indian oil and gas companies to participate in the UAE's energy sector. India currently imports about 80% of its oil needs, 8% of which is reportedly supplied by the UAE.

Lower Zakum is actually a part of the ADMA-OPCO offshore oil concession, which produces around 700,000 barrels per day and is projected to reach about 1 million barrels per day 2021. To remind you, last August ADNOC had announced plans to split the latter into three areas- Umm Shaif and Nasr, Sateh Al Razboot and Umm Lulu, and Lower Zakum-with new terms to unlock greater value and increase opportunities for partnerships. Existing shareholders in ADMA-OPCO are BP plc with 14.67%, Total SA with 13.33% and Japan Oil Development Co with 12%.

This is not the first time that Indian oil companies have joined hands to acquire a stake in an overseas field. In 2016, Oil India Ltd along with IOC and BPCL reportedly picked up stakes in two separate oilfields in East Siberia. These investments, along with OVL's 26% stake in Vankor, Russia's second biggest oilfield-totalling $5.46 billion-would reportedly give India 15.18 million tonnes of oil equivalent. In comparison, over the past 50 years, a whopping $28.48 billion investment by Indian companies overseas had only given about 10 million tonnes of oil equivalent.

The latest foray into the UAE might pave the way for even more fruitful investments.



With agency inputsThe Utah Rivers Council is a grassroots organization dedicated to the conservation and stewardship of Utahs rivers and clean water sources. According to their executive director, Zach Frankel, they are concerned about some legislation that could have ramifications in Cache Valley as far as a citys ability to protect its watershed.

Legislation that, unintentionally or not, would grant that authority to the legislature alone. According to Frankel, HB 135 has been described as a territorial bill.

But what it really does in practicality, if it was passed it would stop a city from protecting its watershed or its water quality, its water supply upstream of its drinking water plants, of its treatment plants.

So, in other words, whats happening now along the Wasatch Front is the cities are all dependent on snowmelt runoff for our water supply. About 85 percent of our drinking water comes from snowmelt runoff, he explained.

Frankel says at its currently set, those cities have regulatory authority to keep their watersheds protected, to keep them clean and healthy and to prevent development upstream that jeopardizes the quality of the water supply for literally millions of Utahns.

He said this bill would stop that upstream regulation, and if passed would require more water treatment costs and facilities to be constructed by cities in the state. Frankel warns that the consequence may be increased water rates over time to pay for these new facilities. Those interested can read the entire text of the bill at <a href=https://le.utah.gov/~2018/bills/static/HB0135.html target=_blank>le.utah.gov</a>. Frankel was a guest on KVNUs For the People program last Thursday.Archive Sep 2021 (65) Aug 2021 (184) Jul 2021 (170) Jun 2021 (168) May 2021 (168) Apr 2021 (169) Mar 2021 (179) Feb 2021 (153) Jan 2021 (161) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (152) Oct 2020 (160) Sep 2020 (158) Aug 2020 (169) Jul 2020 (173) Jun 2020 (169) May 2020 (165) Apr 2020 (164) Mar 2020 (144) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (118) Dec 2019 (113) Nov 2019 (105) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (122) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (125) Jun 2019 (116) May 2019 (124) Apr 2019 (117) Mar 2019 (123) Feb 2019 (108) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (125) Nov 2018 (122) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (114) Aug 2018 (127) Jul 2018 (124) Jun 2018 (114) May 2018 (130) Apr 2018 (123) Mar 2018 (128) Feb 2018 (114) Jan 2018 (126) Dec 2017 (123) Nov 2017 (121) Oct 2017 (121) Sep 2017 (116) Aug 2017 (119) Jul 2017 (108) Jun 2017 (116) May 2017 (110) Apr 2017 (111) Mar 2017 (119) Feb 2017 (109) Jan 2017 (108) Dec 2016 (113) Nov 2016 (116) Oct 2016 (118) Sep 2016 (120) Aug 2016 (112) Jul 2016 (111) Jun 2016 (125) May 2016 (111) Apr 2016 (112) Mar 2016 (121) Feb 2016 (114) Jan 2016 (114) Dec 2015 (119) Nov 2015 (117) Oct 2015 (125) Sep 2015 (124) Aug 2015 (103) Jul 2015 (125) Jun 2015 (131) May 2015 (123) Apr 2015 (129) Mar 2015 (133) Feb 2015 (125) Jan 2015 (135) Dec 2014 (134) Nov 2014 (129) Oct 2014 (144) Sep 2014 (127) Aug 2014 (130) Jul 2014 (143) Jun 2014 (131) May 2014 (137) Apr 2014 (139) Mar 2014 (134) Feb 2014 (128) Jan 2014 (141) Dec 2013 (140) Nov 2013 (136) Oct 2013 (145) Sep 2013 (146) Aug 2013 (147) Jul 2013 (151) Jun 2013 (141) May 2013 (150) Apr 2013 (149) Mar 2013 (151) Feb 2013 (133) Jan 2013 (160) Dec 2012 (154) Nov 2012 (157) Oct 2012 (165) Sep 2012 (145) Aug 2012 (161) Jul 2012 (170) Jun 2012 (162) May 2012 (169) Apr 2012 (162) Mar 2012 (162) Feb 2012 (156) Jan 2012 (169) Dec 2011 (157) Nov 2011 (178) Oct 2011 (182) Sep 2011 (170) Aug 2011 (178) Jul 2011 (174) Jun 2011 (157) May 2011 (158) Apr 2011 (164) Mar 2011 (172) Feb 2011 (162) Jan 2011 (177) Dec 2010 (171) Nov 2010 (169) Oct 2010 (182) Sep 2010 (179) Aug 2010 (184) Jul 2010 (190) Jun 2010 (189) May 2010 (198) Apr 2010 (185) Mar 2010 (210) Feb 2010 (195) Jan 2010 (212) Dec 2009 (225) Nov 2009 (209) Oct 2009 (215) Sep 2009 (202) Aug 2009 (230) Jul 2009 (269) Jun 2009 (252) May 2009 (241) Apr 2009 (256) Mar 2009 (254) Feb 2009 (255) Jan 2009 (214) Dec 2008 (204) Nov 2008 (252) Oct 2008 (268) Sep 2008 (304) Aug 2008 (210) Jul 2008 (251) Jun 2008 (206) May 2008 (203) Apr 2008 (202) Mar 2008 (204) Feb 2008 (195) Jan 2008 (212) Dec 2007 (179) Nov 2007 (189) Oct 2007 (179) Sep 2007 (176) Aug 2007 (209) Jul 2007 (155) Jun 2007 (135) May 2007 (106) Apr 2007 (120) Mar 2007 (138) Feb 2007 (77) Jan 2007 (70) Dec 2006 (63) Nov 2006 (70) Oct 2006 (67) Sep 2006 (70) Aug 2006 (61) Jul 2006 (56) Jun 2006 (44) May 2006 (60) Apr 2006 (53) Mar 2006 (45) Feb 2006 (38) Jan 2006 (42) Dec 2005 (46) Nov 2005 (54) Oct 2005 (60) Sep 2005 (46) Aug 2005 (86) Jul 2005 (43) Jun 2005 (47) May 2005 (52) Apr 2005 (39) Mar 2005 (29) Feb 2005 (26) Jan 2005 (12)| BY Lynchy |

Gunn Report, the global index of creative excellence in advertising, has released the results of the newly launched Gunn 100, a ranking of the top 100 creatively awarded advertising ideas of 2017  regardless of their communication discipline  and the companies behind them.

Already highly regarded, BBH Singapores Unlimited Stadium for Nike has featured in the top 10 of the worlds most awarded campaigns in the Gunn 100. The Nike Unlimited Stadium was inspired by the worlds most iconic footprint  the lunar footprint  and was shaped as a 200 metre giant reimagined running track which took over a whole city block in the centre of Manila. Nike was also ranked best creative brand in the world.

Ranked the most creative campaign in the world is Meet Graham, created by Clemenger BBDO Melbourne for Australias Transport Accident Commission, depicting what a human would have to look like to withstand a low speed crash.

In second place is McCann New Yorks Fearless Girl. In honour of International Womens Day, asset management firm State Street Global Advisors installed a bronze statue of a defiant girl staring down the iconic Wall Streets Charging Bull sculpture, which sparked a conversation on womens equality issues in the US.

Ranked third is Pedigrees humorous Child Replacement Programme campaign in New Zealand, created by Colenso BBDO Auckland, which encourages parents to adopt a dog once their children have left home.

Three themes have emerged from the worlds most creative campaigns:

A year of purpose: purpose-driven marketing continues to dominate with brands (as opposed to charities or not-for-profit) using social or environmental causes in brand-building activity.

Creativity meets tech: A number of high-ranking campaigns found innovative ways to use emerging technology.

Emotion drives film-led work: A combination of emotional engagement and high production values was a recurring theme in film-led campaigns.

BBDO agencies dominate the league tables following an impressive performance around the world with four agencies listed in the top ten. Most notably AlmapBBDO Sao Paulo tops the most creative agencies leader-board for the fourth time in the 19 years of Gunn Report. BBDO New York is ranked second and Dentsu Tokyo third.

BBDO Worldwide heads the networks table, for an impressive twelfth consecutive year with 36 different offices contributing to their total. McCann Worldgroup are in second place and Ogilvy & Mather third.

The rankings, which include the top creative agencies, agency networks, holding companies, brands, advertisers and countries, are compiled by analysing the results of more than 40 of the worlds most important international, regional and national creative awards shows.

Andrew Robertson, president and chief executive BBDO said, We know that award-winning work works better in the marketplace, so topping the Gunn 100 matters. When we say were focused on The Work. The Work. The Work, we mean it: winning Gunn for 12 years in a row proves it.

For the first time Gunn Report has included a ranking of holding companies based on their creative output. Omnicom takes poll position followed by WPP in second and Interpublic Group in third place.

Nike has bounced back from 12th position last year to take first place in the brands table for the fifth time. Volkswagen, IKEA, Getty Images and McDonalds follow.

German multinational Volkswagen Group, is the most creative advertiser with both Volkswagen and Audi ranking in the top ten brands. They had two campaigns in the top 100 and a further 30 from across all regions that contributed to their tally. Mars takes second place followed by Nike, Procter & Gamble and Samsung.

Jochen Sengpiehl, head of marketing, Volkswagen said, We are very pleased that Volkswagen Group has been named best advertiser of the world in 2017. Our campaigns are based on a tremendous passion for the automobile and people. Volkswagen is committed to creative advertising that convinces customers. This honour shows that our campaigns throughout the world have reached a top-class level and will provide the entire team with motivation to do even better and to defend the title.

USA retains its place as the most creatively awarded country in the world by far. United Kingdom and Australia follow.

The most highly ranked ideas and companies in Gunn 100 are:

Says Emma Wilkie, managing director of Gunn Report: Gunn 100 offers an independent and objective overview of the best creative ideas from around the world and the companies behind them providing benchmark rankings that encapsulate and inspire the industry.

The full Gunn 100 rankings  including the worlds top 100 creatively awarded campaigns, top 50 creative agencies, agency networks, brands, advertisers, countries and top holding companies as well as commentaries, the work and credits  is available by subscription on www.warc.com/gunnreport.| BY Lynchy |

Lee Tak Shune has been appointed to the Executive Creative Director role at Publicis Malaysia.

Lee (left), who was most recently Creative Director at BBDO Malaysia, has worked on brands including Fonterra, U Mobile, Guardian, Vinda, Unilever, Tesco Malaysia, BMW, Nandos, Expedia and Eveready. With 17 years of creative experience behind him, his body of work has been recognized at leading awards shows that includes Cannes Lions, London International Awards, Spikes Asia, AdFest, the Kancil Awards and the EFFIES Awards.

In his new role, Lee has been tasked with overall creative leadership of Publicis Malaysia as well as responsibilities to selected brands within the agency.

Tan Kien Eng, Chief Executive Officer, Publicis One Malaysia said, We are driving transformational change across the entire Publicis One business model where we seek dynamic creative talents who are ready for change, adapt and take charge on these changes across our large and diverse business. Shune brings a lot of that energy and we are looking forward to have him on board to drive the creative innovation of our clients, as well as play an integral role in Publicis Ones creative council.Notice for the Postmedia Network

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A former employee of the Pakistan High Commissioner claims he was verbally abused, worked up to 19 hours a day and slept in a basement, before seeking help from the Australian government. Shahid Mahmood told the ABC's Four Corners program that he slept in a storage space in the basement of the home of Pakistani High Commissioner Naela Chohan for 18 months before seeking help with Canberra Legal Aid. He described his pay of around $100 a week being sent to his family in Pakistan every few months. Ruth (whose last name wasn't used in the report), said she was was placed in the home of a Saudi Arabian diplomat after answering an advertisement from a recruitment company in the Philippines. Although she signed a contract saying she would be paid $2150 a month, she was paid only about $250 a month, which was given to her husband. When she first arrived in Canberra, the room she was to sleep in didn't even have a bed, her passport was taken away from her. Eden, also from the Philippines, said she worked up to 18 hours a day, seven days a week for just $350 a week for a former ambassador for the Philippines in Australia. She left the embassy with her now-husband Gary, but is unable to return to her children in Manila. Mr Mahmood was granted permanent residency by the Australian government in September last year, the ABC reported that a letter from the department of immigration said "The Attorney-General has issued a certificate confirming that you have made a contribution to, and cooperated closely with, an investigation". Ms Chohan, who is still High Commissioner for Pakistan, gave a statement to the ABC saying "I can assure you that all and each of the allegations  are baseless, unfounded and motivated". ABC's Four Corners program revealed on Monday that the Salvation Army has dealt with more than 20 cases of workers being exploited in diplomatic households, mostly in Canberra. Unions ACT secretary Alex White said embassy workers had previously contacted the peak body about their treatment, however they chose not to take the matters further out of fear. "It's a significant number and it's happening in some of the richer suburbs in Canberra, because that's where all the embassies are," Mr White said. "The embassy staff and diplomats shouldn't be allowed to get away with this, and they are allowed to by the federal government." The union peak body has previously proposed that the ACT government becomes a sponsor of last resort for workers on visas being threatened with deportation if they leave abusive employers, however Mr White said the idea had been bogged down in legal review. "There's a lot of denial in the community that this kind of exploitation happens in Canberra, but it is, and it's very serious," Mr White said. Secretary of the ACT branch of United Voice Lyndal Ryan said she was concerned about any situation that tied a person's visa to their employment, and that members of her union had reported issues with exploitation in the embassies to the union. "In any circumstances where your job is tied to a visa, you're a very vulnerable worker. It's especially scary for you if they can sack you and send you home," she said. "Not only do they fear for themselves but for their families in their home country." Ms Ryan echoed Mr White's call for the ACT government to provide an avenue of protection for workers seeking to escape exploitative environments, describing it as a "very neat solution". "People would be much more inclined to come forward if they could be assured they wouldn't face retribution," Ms Ryan said. If the ACT government were to take action on the issue it would send a signal to those who seek to exploit workers, Ms Ryan said. "For the people who are exploiting workers, they are doing so not necessarily out of ignorance but out of an assessment of the risk for them, and the risks for them are too small," she said. ACT Police told Fairfax Media that it had received complaints from workers within diplomatic residencies or embassies. "Allegations such as these are inherently complex and require consultation with a number of government agencies and non-government organisations," a spokesperson said. Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop said "the Australian Government has strict procedures and checks to ensure foreign diplomats comply with Australian laws and regulations when they bring privately employed staff to work in their households". "DFAT treats allegations of mistreatment of domestic workers by foreign diplomats very seriously and are a matter for the police," she said. Timor-Leste ambassador Abel Guterres is the dean of the diplomatic corps in Australia, but refused to comment on the issue to Fairfax Media.

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Paramedics in Canberra were shortstaffed on 40 per cent of last year's shifts, in spite of recording the best ambulance response times in the nation. Figures provided to the ACT Legislative Assembly showed there were fewer than 10 ambulance crews working on 303 of the 730 shifts last financial year. This is despite the ACT Ambulance Service aiming for 10 crews as a minimum standard for each shift, with an extra two crews helping out in peak times. An government spokesman said it was common for there to be fewer than 10 crews working in periods of low demand, such as night shifts during the middle of the week. However it's understood illness and leave impacted paramedic staffing numbers last year. Paramedics confirmed they were repeatedly shorthanded on shift last year. Canberra Liberals' spokeswoman for emergency services Giulia Jones described the shortfall as "staggering". "The minister should never have allowed this to happen under his watch," Mrs Jones said. "Our ambulance crews are continually over worked and underresourced." ACT emergency services minister Mick Gentleman announced just before Christmas an extra 24 paramedics would be recruited this year, on top of the additional 11 already being procured. A spokesman for the minister rubbished claims the ambulance service was underresourced. "For the Opposition to suggest that an Ambulance Service that has the fastest response times in the country six years running is understaffed is simply ridiculous," the spokesman said. But Transport Workers Union official Ben Sweaney said members had been lobbying the government for more staff for the past year. He said the extra staff and vehicles were welcomed but a program to "continue regular injections of resources should be considered". "The TWU welcomes the governments commitments to increase resources across the ACT Ambulance Services' frontline ... and continue to work with the directorate and government about the need to implement a funding model that matches supply with demand," Mr Sweaney said. The Liberals also hit out at Mr Gentleman for delaying the release of the data. The government has 30 days to respond to questions taken on notice. Mrs Jones requested the staffing figures from the government on September 22 last year. The minister signed off on the answers on January 31 - a day after he issued a press released containing the information Mrs Jones requested. Mr Gentleman told the Assembly on November 30 there had been some "toing and froing between the offices on the allocation of the answer to the question". But Mrs Jones accused Mr Gentleman of holding back the answers "until he could come up with political spin".

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A Canberra childcare centre worker allegedly defrauded a man she met on a dating app of more than $61,000, a court has heard. Crystal Lee Lancaster, 26, was arrested on Monday after police searched her property. She was hauled before court charged with 24 counts of dishonestly obtaining property by deception against the alleged victim. Police suspect there could be more than 23 more alleged victims who have deposited a combined total of $300,000 in the woman's account since 2010. Police allege the Dunlop woman stole the identity of another person on Instagram and told the man she met on the dating app that she needed chemotherapy, and school fees for her son. The alleged victim made 24 separate deposits into the woman's account, one of $15,000, over the course of three years, the court heard. During Ms Lancaster's bid for bail in the ACT Magistrates Court, prosecutors said police suspected there could be more than 23 possible victims of the alleged scam. The prosecutor said the woman had not yet been charged with those offences, but she still opposed Ms Lancaster's release on bail, citing fears she would reoffend and interfere with witnesses while police continued their investigations. A Legal Aid duty lawyer told the court Ms Lancaster shared caring duties for her unwell mother with her father, and was employed full time at a Canberra childcare centre. She said Ms Lancaster would agree to comply with any bail conditions no matter how onerous, and police had already seized the woman's phone and laptop. She asked the court to put little weight on the police allegations with which Ms Lancaster had not been charged. Throughout the bail hearing, Ms Lancaster was physically ill. She told the court she had been sick with gastro and called for a garbage bin so she could be sick. The sound of her retching punctuated the prosecutor's arguments against her release on bail. The prosecutor said it was a strong prosecution case and Ms Lancaster was likely to face time in prison if she were found guilty of the alleged offences. There was possibly up to $300,000 fraudulently obtained, and $106,000 deposited by 15 people. The prosecutor said the alleged offences spanned other states, and that at least one other suspected victim was in Queensland. She said it was "hard to believe" Ms Lancaster's statements to police that she did not know about the money deposited in her account. Special Magistrate Ken Cush refused bail. He said it would be difficult to put in place bail conditions that would address the risk of Ms Lancaster contacting the alleged victims. He said police should be allowed some time to complete their investigations without interference. The case is next due in court on March 6.

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The territory government was urged almost nine years ago to fund a dedicated coroner to help address "soul-destroying delays" families face waiting for inquests, a call ignored in the eight years since. The Canberra Times has obtained 17 previously unreleased submissions to a review of the territory's Coroner's Act in 2009, part of the response to the lengthy coronial inquiry into the 2003 Canberra bushfires. Almost all respondents urged a chief coroner be funded for the court, including four magistrates, the then heads of ACT Policing, Legal Aid ACT, the Director of Public Prosecutions and barrister Ken Archer, who has been involved in hundreds of "coronials". Now president of the ACT Bar Association, Mr Archer said his personal view remained unchanged, though he was not speaking for the bar on the issue. In 2009, Mr Archer wrote that the lack of a dedicated coroner and the "failure to prioritise appropriately has seen inappropriate (and for the families) soul-destroying delays in the hearings of inquests". One group of mothers with personal experience of such delays in the coronial system spoke out recently, as they push for more resources and reforms for the court. While Mr Archer wrote inquests could be "inconvenient and cause significant political embarrassment"; the process was "of critical importance in ensuring that deaths are adequately and appropriately investigated". "In a community where there are few bodies exercising independent review of government functions and fewer still who have the resources to pursue their mandate of review with vigour, coronial processes have a significance in the ACT which is greater than other jurisdictions," the submission reads. "The politics of this review cannot and should not be overlooked. It is hoped that any changes will be informed by concerns about the public interest, rather than what might suit the political interests of the government of the day." Of the potential for a dedicated coroner to be appointed, Mr Archer wrote that "the answer should be 'yes'". "The piecemeal approach to the Coroner's role cannot be tolerated any further," he wrote. While such appointments are made by the ACT's Chief Magistrate, Lorraine Walker, she has consistently called for extra funds to be able support an additional magistrate to make the appointment, calls which have so far fallen on deaf ears in the Legislative Assembly. The justice directorate released all non-confidential submissions to the review of the Act on request, but has refused to release the final report of the review, or detail its recommendations, claiming it was "cabinet-in-confidence" material. In the years since, numerous families - like that of Ann Finlay, who faced a seven-year-long wait for the inquest report into her son Paul Fennessy's death - have waited several years for inquests to be completed. The little data available on "pending cases", for 2015-16, showed 108 cases waited less than 12 months, 23 cases between 12 months and two years and 27 cases on the books waiting more than two years to be "finalised". The court's annual report also showed the "median days to finalisation" of coronial cases fell from 83 days in 2014-15 to to 75 days in 2015-16. But Mr Archer said such measures were "close to meaningless", and there was little longer term trend data, or other better qualitative measures available. He said if he was looking for a date to be set down for an inquest hearing now, "late 2018" would be the earliest available. While Mr Archer noted some improvements in the years since, particularly moving the Coroner's Court's counsel assisting from public prosecutions to the court, he stood by his original submission. The government has made other changes since, including legal changes to stop coroners being forced to investigate every fire, and reducing the court's jurisdiction to focus on more systemic cases. But few extra resources have been promised or delivered to the coronial system in the past eight years, and one key 24 hour trauma support service for families was cut in 2016, in favour of a working hours' counselling service. Mr Archer said his personal view was that a dedicated coroner would "allow for greater specialisation and consistency in case management". "By the same token, we know the government's been approached to appoint another magistrate, we understand that discussion is ongoing, but we don't know how the Chief Minister (Andrew Barr) will respond," he said. "Ultimately, it is a resourcing issue for the government to work out, and we know the pit is not bottomless." Attorney-General Gordon Ramsay has said the government is examining the Magistrate's Court resources "overall" as part of "a comprehensive examination of resourcing across the justice system". Do you know more? Email: daniel.burdon@fairfaxmedia.com.au

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Malcolm Turnbull's office has rejected claims Barnaby Joyce breached the ministerial code of conduct when his lover was employed by fellow MPs, arguing Vikki Campion could not be considered the Deputy Prime Minister's "partner" at the time. Ms Campion left Mr Joyce's employ in April last year when their affair - which ultimately ended his 24-year marriage - began creating tensions in the office. The 33-year-old was then given a new well-paid role with Resources Minister Matt Canavan, a close ally and fellow former staffer of Mr Joyce. Reports have suggested the job carried a salary of about $190,000 a year. When Senator Canavan stood aside over dual citizenship doubts in 2017, Ms Campion then moved to the office of then-chief Nationals whip Damian Drum. But the ministerial code of conduct makes it clear partners cannot be employed by any other minister without an explicit prime ministerial go-ahead. Section 2.23 of the code states a minister's "close relatives and partners are not to be appointed to positions in their ministerial or electorate offices and must not be employed in the offices of other members of the executive government without the Prime Ministers express approval". A spokesman for the government dismissed claims of anything wrongdoing, saying "the Deputy Prime Minister did not breach the ministerial code of conduct because Ms Campion was not his partner at the time of the staff appointments." The spokesman also said "the Prime Minister was not aware of the relationship" at the time of the appointments to the offices of Senator Canavan and Mr Drum. "National Party staffing is a matter for the National Party," the spokesman said. In question time, Mr Turnbull distanced himself from the affair, emphasising that the Nationals were responsible for their own staffing and Mr Joyce "had not discussed Ms Campion's employment with me or my office". Opposition Leader Bill Shorten asked Mr Turnbull whether he still supported Mr Joyce, and whether Mr Joyce would be serving as acting prime minister when Mr Turnbull travels to the United States next week. Mr Turnbull responded: "Yes in response to both questions." It's understood that Mr Joyce and Ms Campion have only moved in together in recent weeks. She is not yet considered his designated "spouse" for the purposes of travel and entitlements. Nationals' chief whip Michelle Landry said Mr Joyce's travails had been discussed during Monday's party room meeting. "There was strong support for Barnaby to remain leader of the National Party," she said after the meeting. "Barnaby is a once in a generation politician, he has been fantastic for people in the bush."

/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-ct-migration/fe4f0729-bdfe-4b3b-9834-322270f4baa8/r0_278_5472_3370_w1200_h678_fmax.jpgI was so saddened to hear of your story on students' parking woes, this is a tragedy of our lifetimes. With all the conflict going on in the world, the threat of nuclear war, and climate change, these students have the added burden of having to walk 2 blocks to college, imagine that! How will they ever survive?

Kelowna weather is not exactly Hawaii, sometimes it does snow and the temperature can actually go below zero! This is a real burden on students and I don't believe they should suffer in such a manner. Someone should start a crowdfunding "Save the Parking Students of Okanagan College" so they don't have to hoof it 2 blocks. What is our world coming to?

Take the bus, or ride your bike, or ski, or snowshoe, carpool anyone? Climate change, you know.

Elaine TindallIf Albertas Notley Crew wishes to play silly bugger by initiating a trade war with BC, here is how to play hardball.

Initiate immediately a 15% Residence Tax on all Alberta owners of property in BC. Add a $250.00 ICBC insurance override charge on all Alberta vehicles entering into and operating in BC. Place a 25% surcharge on all Alberta beef sold in BC. Place a 10% transportation surcharge on all Alberta oil being currently transported through BC via pipeline or rail car. Redirect BC Hydro exports going to Alberta to go down through the Northwest power grid to the much better USA Dollars.

This will make Alberta realize their BC wine embargo is just their own sour grapes, or Premier Notley should resign immediately and be replaced with a Premier that is not from the Dark Ages.

Mark ColemanPhoto: RCMP

Police are asking for the publics help in identifying a suspect believed to be involved in counterfeit money.

A counterfeit currency investigation is underway by Golden-Field RCMP.

The Golden-Field RCMP are reminding everyone to be vigilant with cash transactions, as counterfeit bills have been recently passed, said Cst. Spencer Lainchbury.

An image of a male who is believed to have used counterfeit bills was posted online and police are asking that if anyone recognizes the suspect to contact them at 250-344-2221.

No further information was available about where specifically the incident took place.Photo: Instagram Julia Ransom, Emma Lunder and Megan Tandy seen from left to right at the Pyeongchang 2018 Olympic Winter Games.

UPDATE: 7:10 a.m.

Okanagan's Emma Lunder and Julia Ransom gave it their all early Monday morning in the womens 10 kilometre pursuit.

Ranson finished 19th, with a time of 33:03.0 and Lunder completed the course with a time of 36:52.1, finishing 53rd.

ORIGINAL: 8 p.m.

Two Okanagan locals will compete for the second time at the Pyeongchang 2018 Olympic Winter Games Monday in the Biathlon.

Emma Lunder of Vernon and Julia Ransom of Kelowna will race in the womens 10 kilometre pursuit at the Alpensia Biathlon Centre at 2:10 a.m. Pacific Time.

The two competed Sunday in the 7.5 km biathlon sprint.

Other Canadians in the race will include Rosanna Crawford of Canmore and Megan Tandy of Prince George.

For updates on results visit this link.Photo: leidihaaijer.nl

Fake tech support scams are still here, and theyre worse than ever. Learn how to stay safe and what to do if you get faked out.

How does this work?

The Fake Tech Support scam is a confidence game like all the other confidence games that have been going on for years.

In this version, the con artist convinces someone to phone a number for technical support, then gains the trust of the person, convincing him/her to grant remote access to the computer through TeamViewer, GoToAssist, LogMeIn, or other perfectly legitimate products.

Once the scammer has taken control, s/he will do techie-looking things to convince the victim that theres a problem, and that it can be fixed for a price. The scammer will try to obtain credit card and/or banking information.

At best, the victim is inconvenienced by having to cancel credit cards and change passwords, and maybe being out a few hundred dollars.

At worst, its a life-changing case of identity theft.

What do you mean, convinces someone to phone?

Ten years ago, when this scam was new, the most common way scammers engaged people was by calling them. And thats still happening! Dont fall for it!

Since then, things have progressed to the point where fake tech support sites are advertised on major search engines like Bing, Google, and Yahoo. You might search for help with a product, like Facebook customer service phone number or Canon printer help.

At least some of those search results, and often the ones near the top, are fake. If you phone, youll get someone who will do everything s/he can to convince you to part with your credit card information.

A recent twist now causes fake error messages to pop up in browsers. These are scary messages informing you that your computer is infected or that a serious error has occurred. Some of them even include loud sounds and shouting. All of them include a toll-free number to scammers.

This is a Windows thing, right?

To everyone chuckling and congratulating yourselves on having a Mac: You are also vulnerable to these scams. Your Safari browser can be compromised to pop up fake warnings.

You can also get tainted search results. And lately, the cold callers who used to hang up when someone said, I have a Mac, now pivot and claim to support Apple products.

Android smartphones and tablets are now targets, too.

How can I protect myself?

If you get a popup, get some help cleaning your computer. Do not search for help online, because if youre getting that popup your browser and search have probably been hijacked, and your search results will show more bogus websites and toll-free numbers that get you to the same scam artists.

These guys are resourceful.

When reaching out to a company for technical support make sure the website or phone number youre calling is truly for that company. The paid version of Malwarebytes can prevent you from browsing to websites known to be a problem.

Check on the legitimacy of a website by using the Avast! Antivirus Online Security add-on, the one from Trend-Micro, or whatever your antivirus offers by way of protection.

Check using the VirusTotal website.

If you phone a support line and the connection is poor, theres lots of noise and shouting, and the so-called technician tries to hard sell you something, you are probably not connected to the real deal.

Have you been scammed? Read this article to see what to do.Alanna Kelly

Kelowna residents were blown away by a whirlwind on Saturday.

Figuratively.

A video taken from an Orchard Park Shopping Centre parking lot shows a defined dust devil spiralling multiple metres into the air.

This is so nuts, said Nicki Kobasiuk.

Witnesses can be seen filming the whirlwind, which they originally thought was a twister.

Alyssa Charbonneau, senior meteorologist Environment Canada dust devils arent unheard of but typically happen on a hot summer day rather than in the middle of winter.

It is something that would happen more likely on a hot day rather than the middle of winter, she said. Those arent exactly the conditions it would normally happen.

Sun shining on the pavement and the cooler temperatures would have created the dust devil.

Often what happens is there is a difference between hot air at the surface and cooler air a loft and that rising air with the conditions being just right you get a spinning column that spins for a little while and falls apart when the conditions are no longer just right.

Most of the time dust devils area harmless but can be large enough to cause damage.

There have been some that are big enough and strong enough that they would be able to cause a little bit of damage, she said.

This one was pretty defined, larger, things were blowing around, she said.

Luckily, this one was only large enough to pick up some garbage on the ground.Photo: Sean Heddle

A missing pup named Max has been all alone for two weeks now.

Max is a male boxer who was last seen on Westside Road in West Kelowna.

A drone search was conducted by a man named Sean Heddle, but has not turned up any leads.

I had no luck but got me thinking that the dog may have been picked up and may have had his collar come off on his journey, he said.

The owner of the dog believes he might be between Westside Road and Rose Valley.

"Two weeks is a long time out there and time is definitely an issue now," he said.

Anyone with information or that spots Max is being asked to contact 250-575-0718.Madison Erhardt

The Okanagan is in for a full day of sunshine this Family Day.

Environment Canada forecasts a high of -5 C and mainly sunny, with cloudy periods towards late afternoon.

"We will be seeing temperatures on the cool side for the next couple of days. There is a frontal system coming through on Tuesday we could see some snow this week," said Alyssa Charbonneau, Meteorologist Environment Canada.

Tuesday will see a high of -2 C with periods of snow beginning in the afternoon. Approximately two centimeters is expected.

Wednesday should reach a high of plus 1 and a 60 per cent chance of flurries.

Thursday and Friday are looking nice. Environment Canada forecasts plus 1 and a mix of sun and cloud.

Both Saturday and Sunday are calling for snow off and on.

Saturday will see a high of 3 C and a 60 per cent chance of flurries or rain showers.

Sunday is sitting at 2 C with flurries off and on during the afternoon.Photo: CTV

Dozens of couples tied the knot in Vancouver's Robson Square during a pop-up wedding event on Sunday.

The free event saw 144 couples say "I do" at one of seven altars. Pro photographers also provided their services for free.

"We want to give back to the community and let people know they can get married without spending thousands and thousands of dollars," said organizer Nicole Vanselo. "Its just a fun way to celebrate love."

Couples needed to have a marriage licence, but other than that, all it cost was a $20 donation to the Vancouver Food Bank.

"It's a true shotgun experience," Vanselo told CTV. "We get people that have kids, people that have gotten married in Mexico and it's not necessarily legal  and people that just got engaged last week."

James and Samantha Gunn were among those to get hitched.

"I wanted to get married the day he proposed, so this is the quickest way to go about it," said Samantha.

Chris and Diane Keough didn't tell anyone about their spur of the moment decision.

"Today, we're eloping," Diane said. "He's the first person I've ever been with that gets me. I love him to pieces."

 with files from CTV VancouverPhoto: GoFundMe

A man killed in a surfing accident in Tofino on Saturday has been identified as Nijin John.

John was a research student at the University of Victoria.

The accident happened in the waters off Long Beach at around 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

Witnesses say the young man who is believed to be in his 20's was learning to surf with a group of people.

He was later seen lying on the shore and was given CPR.

The BC Coroners Service has yet to confirm the identity or cause of death of the deceased male, but he's been identified by friends in a GoFundMe campaign as Nijin John, a UVic student in his 20s.

John was "a beloved son, brother, and a friend," the post said.

All proceeds from the GoFundMe campaign will be used for funeral expenses.

The campaign had already met its $18,000 goal as of Monday.

-With files from CTV Vancouver IslandPhoto: Surrey RCMP

An alleged break and enter helped RCMP nab illicit drugs, a cache of drugs and thousands of dollars worth of stolen property.

The investigation started after RCMP attended an alleged break and enter in the Fleetwood area of Surrey Jan. 6, where the owners say that $15,000 worth of property was stolen.

Following up on tips, RCMP found some of the stolen property at a store in Langley and a potential suspect.

On Jan. 23 police executed a search warrant at a home in Abbotsford where they seized six firearms, suspected illicit drugs and scales, and stolen electronics. Four of the firearms are believed to be stolen from other break and enters throughout the Lower Mainland.

Richard Thompson, 46, was arrested at the house in Abbotsford.

Thompson is now charged with one count of each of the following offences:

Possession of a loaded handgun without authorization or a license

Possession of a firearm knowing it wasnt registered

Unsafe storage of a firearm

Trafficking in property obtained by crime

Investigators are still reviewing the evidence and there is potential for more charges to be laid.

Thompson appeared in court and has been released on bail with conditions.

This is a significant seizure of stolen property including several firearms, says Corporal Scotty Schumann. Were glad to get some of the property back to its rightful owners and, thanks in part to the Abbotsford Police and the Langley RCMP, reduce the potential for these firearms to be used in other crimes."Photo: The World News

A fugitive who evaded police as the "Bushman of the Shuswap" and later loved playing Santa and ran for mayor in his hometown of Williams Lake, B.C., has died.

John Bjornstrom's death came suddenly on Jan. 13 at age 58, according to an obituary in the Williams Lake Tribune. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday.

Bjornstrom escaped from jail in Kamloops and was on the lam for two years before being captured in November 2001 after a massive manhunt.

He survived by stealing food and property from dozens of cabins in the woods around Shuswap Lake, where he repeatedly eluded the RCMP but spoke with several media outlets about his underground encampment.

RCMP posed as journalists making a documentary in order to arrest Bjornstrom.

In 2004, he was sentenced to house arrest for 23 months after pleading guilty to 10 charges including break and enter.

Mayor Walter Cobb of Williams Lake said he last saw Bjornstrom in December as he sported his long white beard and a Santa suit at a community dinner hosted by the Salvation Army.

Cobb didn't know how Bjornstrom died, but said he ran into him at a Chamber of Commerce meeting last fall, where the former "Bushman" said he'd suffered a heart attack.

The obituary suggests donations go to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Salvation Army.

In 2014, Bjornstrom entered the Williams Lake mayoral race saying he was healthy despite a recent battle with cancer.

He finished with 91 votes and in last place among four candidates.

The obituary in the Tribune says Bjornstrom had moved from Ontario at age 12, loved the outdoors and horses, and was an accomplished bare-back rodeo star.

"John brought a smile with him everywhere he went and always had a joke to share," it says. "John was selfless when it came to his many friends at the Salvation Army Drop-in Centre, often running a coffee tab for everyone who visited for the day."By: Thomas Merton

This is often forgotten by Catholics themselves, and therefore it is not surprising that those who are not Catholic often have a completely wrong conception of Catholic devotion to the Mother of God. They imagine, and sometimes we can understand their reasons for doing so, that Catholics treat the Blessed Virgin as an almost divine being in her own right, as if she had some glory, some power, some majesty of her own that placed her on a level with Christ Himself. They regard the Assumption of Mary into heaven as a kind of apotheosis placed in the Redemption would seem to be equal to that of her Son. +++ But this is all completely contrary to the true mind of the Catholic Church.+++ It forgets that Mary's chief glory is in her nothingness, in the fact of being the "Handmaid of the Lord," as one who in becoming the Mother of God acted simply in loving submission to His command, in the pure obedience of faith. She is blessed not because of some mythical pseudo-divine prerogative, but in all her human and womanly limitations as one who has believed. It is the faith and the fidelity of this humble handmaid, "full of grace" that enables her to be the perfect instrument of God, and nothing else but His instrument. The work that was done in her purely the work of God. "He that is mighty hath done great things in me." The glory of Mary is purely and simply the glory of God in her. and she, like anyone else, can say that she has nothing that she has not received from Him through Christ.

As a matter of fact, this is precisely her greatest glory: that having nothing of her own, retaining nothing of a "self" that could glory in any- thing for her own sake, she placed no obstacle to the mercy of God and in no way resisted His love and His will. Hence she received more from Him than any other saint. he was able to accomplish His will perfectly in her, and His liberty was in no way hindered or turned from its purpose by the presence of an egotistical self in Mary. She was and is in the highest sense a person precisely because, being "immaculate," she was free from every taint of selfishness that might obscure God's light in her being. She was then a freedom that obeyed Him perfectly and in this obedience found the fulfill- ment of perfect love.

The genuine significance of Catholic devotion to Mary is to be seen in the light of the Incarnation itself. The Church cannot separate the Son and the Mother. Because the Church conceived of the Incarnation as God's descent into flesh and into time, and His great gift of Himself to His creatures, she also believes that the one who was closest to Him in this great mystery was the one who participated most perfectly in the gift. When a room is heated by an open flame, surely there is nothing strange in the fact that those who stand closest to the fireplace are the ones who are warmest. And when God comes into the world through the instrumentality of one of His servants, then there is nothing surprising about the fact that His chosen instrument should have the greatest and most intimate share in the divine gift.

Mary, who was empty of all egotism, free from all sin, was as pure as the glass of a very clean window that has no other function than to admit the light of the sun (Son). If we rejoice in that light, we implicitly praise the cleanness of the window. And of course it might be argued that in such a case we might well forget the window altogether. This is true. And yet the Son of God, in emptying Himself of His majestic power, having become a child, abandoning Himself in complete dependence to the loving care of a human Mother, in a certain sense draws our attention once again to her. The Light has wished to remind us of the window, because He is grateful to her and because He has an infinitely tender love, it is certainly a great grace and a privilege, and one of the most important aspects of this privilege is that it enables us to some extent to appreciate the mystery of God's great love and respect for His creatures.

That God should assume Mary into heaven is not just a glorification of a "Mother Goddess." Quite the contrary, it is the expression of the divine love for humanity, and a very special manifestation of God's respect for His creatures, His desire to do honor to the beings He has made in His own image, and most particularly His respect for the body which was destined to be the temple of His glory. If Mary is believed to be assumed into heaven, it is because we too are one day, by the grace of God, to dwell where she is. If human nature is glorified in her, it is because God desires it to be glorified in us too, and it is for this reason that His Son, taking flesh, came into the world.

In all the great mystery of Mary, then, one thing remains most clear: that of herself she is nothing, and that God has for our sakes delighted to manifest His glory and His love in her.

It is because she is, of all the saints, the most perfectly poor and the most perfectly hidden, the one who has absolutely nothing whatever that she attempts to possess as her own, that she can most fully communicate to the rest of us the grace of the infinitely selfless God. And we will most truly possess Him when we have emptied ourselves and become poor and hidden as she is, resembling Him by resembling her.

And all our sanctity depends on her maternal love. The ones she desires to share the joy of her own poverty and simplicity, the ones whom she wills to be hidden as she is hidden, are the ones who share her closeness to God.

To all our readers, Please don't scroll past this. Today, we humbly ask you to defend Catholic Online's independence. 98% of our readers don't give; they simply look the other way. If you donate just $5.00, or whatever you can, Catholic Online could keep thriving for years. Most people donate because Catholic Online is useful. If Catholic Online has given you $5.00 worth of knowledge this year, take a minute to donate. Show the volunteers who bring you reliable, Catholic information that their work matters. If you are one of our rare donors, you have our gratitude and we warmly thank you. Help Now >

Copyright 2021 Catholic Online. All materials contained on this site, whether written, audible or visual are the exclusive property of Catholic Online and are protected under U.S. and International copyright laws,  Copyright 2021 Catholic Online. Any unauthorized use, without prior written consent of Catholic Online is strictly forbidden and prohibited.

Catholic Online is a Project of Your Catholic Voice Foundation, a Not-for-Profit Corporation. Your Catholic Voice Foundation has been granted a recognition of tax exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Federal Tax Identification Number: 81-0596847. Your gift is tax-deductible as allowed by law.Thats what we have left, said Thai Dang, who said he was pleased with the charge against Gyulai but otherwise declined to comment on what happened in the past. Our goal is to drive HaiSous and keep true to my style, our style together, what my wife has helped me rebuild.  Yes, it was difficult.Morton Grove-based Land of Nod, which sells children's furniture and home decor, told state regulators late last year that it would lay off 25 employees by January because of a consolidation. Its stores in Chicago, Oak Brook and an outlet in Naperville have now all closed, along with a single store in Natick, Mass., and another store in Seattle, according to the companys website."Since the change in administration last year, we now have an FCC Chairman who appreciates the role of local broadcasting enough to launch a number of politically unpopular deregulatory initiatives necessary to ensure the future of our industry," Amy's letter says. "In response, there have been Congressional efforts to counter these actions, such as a legislative proposal to (limit station ownership), which will prevent any broadcaster from meaningful growth in the future ... We need allies in Congress who understand the role of local television and who are willing to defend it in today's ever-changing landscape."Dormitus Brands and Spiral Sun Ventures  two separate entities run by Thomann  are partnering to relaunch Slice later this year after acquiring the brand's trademark rights, which were formerly owned by PepsiCo. The new Slice will be a lower-sugar, lower-calorie beverage sweetened only with real  possibly organic  fruit juice, Thomann said. The product's still being developed, but the plan is to distribute it nationally through regional retailers in six months or so.The number of Facebook users ages 12 to 17 is expected to decrease by 5.6 percent in 2018, according to a forecast from New York-based market research company eMarketer. That means that for the first time, less than half of U.S. internet users in that age group are expected to use Facebook at least once a month in 2018.I want people to know about whats happening in other parts of the world, particularly in my experience, what happened in my part of the world, Avdal told the Tribune. On the other hand, I also want to live my life as a student here at the University of Chicago, just quiet and have my own privacy. So its like a trade-off. I will have to find a way to make a balance after (Lettermans) show comes out. The best portions of the roundtable came from Get Outs Jason Blum, who is the most interesting producer at the table in terms of how he approaches the job. He talked about the fact that the cost of making movies needs to come down. Way down. Blums whole thing  and this has been his process for a while now  is that he will not make movies that cost more than $5 million. Notably he strips out the perks (no one even has chairs on set with their names on them; egos are not inflated on Blumhouse films).Lets start with Edward Albee, one of the greatest playwrights in American history. I was asked to audition for him for Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and in my brilliance I decided to do an Elvis Costello song. For Edward Albee. That was my audition. Because I figured, no ones going to do that. So I go in and do the lyrics of Alison and  he was not amused. He could not get me out of that room fast enough. He looked at me like I had six heads. It was utter humiliation in that moment. Why would I choose an Elvis Costello song to audition for Edward Albee?Ask this student why they felt the need to single out a fellow student. Listen to whatever explanation they have, and then emphasize how important it is that every student respects one another. Tell the perpetrator that the other student felt embarrassed and offended, and that she is owed an apology. Tell the student that in your class, you expect everyone to speak to one another respectfully.I've had two different experiences with clients who are single and pregnant, says Kali. One profile is someone who has gone through all the steps to get pregnant  it's not just a scientific medical process. People often go through a period of mourning before deciding to do this on their own. They say to themselves, You know, right now it's about me and what I am doing.I want my life to be about service and contribution, said Flores, who was born and raised in Chicago. I want to get to the end of my life and be used up. I dont mean, on my deathbed, I want to be clinging to spreadsheets and proposals; I want love and family and friends. But I want to feel like the talents I have, the talents God gave me, the talents my family helped cultivate in me got used  and for something thats bigger than me.The only way that Ive been able to analyze the situation is in the view of a cancer patient, Asiaha Butler, president of the Resident Association of Greater Englewood and a member of a community steering committee CPS created to address Englewoods high schools, said last week when asked about the prospect of the schools being closed in stages. Were going to have to triage this. Thats a scary thought, but these buildings and these schools and these institutions have been dying. Thats the reality of it. Something will really have to happen in an innovative way so they dont continue to die if theyre phased out.Wier Vaught said Kevin Quinn did not contact Hampton again after she told Ald. Quinn about the harassment and noted that Ald. Quinn had requested that she keep working with the organization. Wier Vaught said the alderman told Hampton she could report to him rather than to his brother. She also said Hampton previously had made it clear she didn't want Kevin Quinn fired.Deonte Ware, 23, of the 1400 block of Fairway Drive, was booked Saturday on a charge of criminal trespass to land, a Class 4 felony, in connection with the 3:30 a.m. incident in the 900 block of Fairway Drive, a police news release said.Northern Virginia Gang Task Force officers partner with an ICE officer to arrest an alleged MS-13 gang member in a Manassas, Va., in August 2017. The Trump administration has made arresting and deporting illegal immigrants, including those with no criminal record, a priority. (Melina Mara / The Washington Post)The auto building collapsed and the fire was struck out about 2:15 a.m., the fire department said. A partial brick wall from the building remained as firefighters doused the smoldering rubble with water.But Johnsons lawyers argued that he had signed the confession only after he was told it was a routine document that would lead to his release. In addition, the details in the confessions from the men, which formed the bulk of the prosecutions case, did not match up, they said.Decades later, and more than 1,000 miles away from the species original habitat in the Southwestern U.S. and Mexico, scientists at Brookfield are deploying new reproductive tools and technologies to advance the recovery of the Mexican wolf. Artificial insemination is among the latest of these. Scientists say it holds promise for the Mexican wolf  which now has a population of over 280 in 55 zoos and other institutions and an estimated 150 living in the wild  as well as other species at the fringes of extinction.To illustrate that process, recently filed court documents suggest that prosecutors plan to call to the stand an East Dundee man who was questioned in 2012 by the three officers about cocaine and heroin in a safe in his home. Cichy told the man he was lucky he was charged for only a small part of the drugs that tested positive and he would not be extradited if he fled to Mexico, according to the court records.About 10:50 p.m., a man was shot in the head when someone fired shots at a house in the Back of the Yards neighborhood on the South Side. The man, who has not been identified, was standing in the living room when someone fired from the sidewalk.In town from Westport, Mass., with her daughter and friends for a gymnastics competition at Navy Pier, she ended up paying $200 a night to stay at the Hilton Garden Inn near Midway and then spending $308 to book two tickets for herself and her 14-year-old daughter on a JetBlue flight Monday so they didnt miss an extra day of school and work. If they would have given us a hotel voucher, it wouldnt have hit too hard, Potvin said. But when you have to spend another $400-plus when it has nothing to do with the weather  Im not too happy with Southwest.Last week, Daeisha Robinson had little choice but to drive 14 miles from her Far South Side home to the Leighton Criminal Court Building, the countys main criminal courthouse on the citys Southwest Side, to find out about the charges her former boyfriend faced. It took the 25-year-old another hour before a private researcher in the circuit clerks office noticed her plight and looked up the case on the computer terminal."I don't think it's anything to be ashamed of if you say, 'It's been determined by a doctor that I have a qualifying condition and I am going to try this and, you know what, it works,'" he said. "I think it would be hypocritical of me to try to mainstream not just medical cannabis, but not be willing to acknowledge I'm a patient." (Hal Dardick)McSweeney was among about two dozen invited guests at the White House for briefings by Trump and senior Cabinet officials. The Barrington Hills lawmaker said Rauner has to talk to the president  a politician he has conscientiously sought to avoid. And, he said, Democratic U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth need to engage with Republicans on the proposal, not just reject it outright.The fact is we all know that our city is in a mess. Weve got problems in this city we havent seen for 30, 40 years, McCarthy said at the top of his 13-minute speech. The crime rate is out of control. The economy of the city is horrible. The taxes are through the roof. Our education system needs a lot of help. And the way we do business in the city, as I like to say, the acceptable political practices in the city of Chicago are unacceptable.Last year, the Mexico City earthquake tragically saw the loss of more than 300 lives. It could have been dramatically worse  nearly 10,000 were killed in the 1985 Mexico City temblor. The difference was due not only to the proximity and respective magnitudes of the quakes, but also to the dramatic improvements in building and safety infrastructure over the past three decades.Then again, why should she have to? For much of the 1990s, women in Washington preferred to have their feet blend in. One staple here was the Ferragamo Vara pump, whose low heel, rounded toe and grosgrain-ribbon bow spoke of practicality and disposable income. Those shoes were at the outer limit of my own price range, but I bought two pairs anyway. One day, then-Sen. Barbara Mikulski, D-Md., spotted them as she passed me in a Capitol hallway. In my memory, she was wearing them, too. You know what Madeleine Albright calls those shoes? she told me. Post-menopausal Mary Janes.McCarthy: Because we're trained in something called the 21-foot rule. And the 21-foot rule has it that if somebody is within 21 feet of you and they have an open an open knife, you're dead. So there's going to be some consternation as far as tactical training goes. Jason Van Dyke ended up in a tactically inferior position and took an action that, you know, I mean, I've made countless gun arrests and I've never fired my gun in my police career, so, you know --First, we must imagine what an equitable world looks like. Then we have to think about who is affected by the work we want to do. Then we must act.Some clergy members in Aurora also were at the meeting, and they said they wanted more information about the event. The Rev. Peggy Hicks, of Exalted Word Church, said some clergy were "worried about this event" and wanted more details about what it would entail.Saturday's climb had $150,000 as a fundraising goal, with 650 participants expected along with about 250 volunteers and spectators, Thompson said. Participants raised money by climbing the stairs, either a set number of times or as many times as they could in one hour.According to the complaint provided by the FBI, Lewis approached a teller counter and pulled out a business card that included words informing the teller not to do anything suspicious, adding that he had a gun in his pocket. The complaint indicated that the teller said Lewis demanded $100 bills and knew the teller had a second drawer and wanted money from that drawer, too."I thank you, the members of Grace Lutheran, for making a difficult decision, and I thank you on behalf of the synod for the ministry done in this place and for the ministry yet to come," Bishop Wayne N. Miller said in a letter read by the Rev. Cynthia Hileman, the associate to the bishop."It's not physically possible to remove every flake of snow the moment it falls, of course, so inherent within this code is a rule of reason," he said. "The point is to get the sidewalks clear so the kids can get off the streets, not to issue fines for non-compliance."In between, there is pushback surfacing from many who consider such a display un-American. We do not have a need, as the French do, to display such braggadocio, they argue. Nor have we had to bluster about our military might over the years. There's a reason we don't have a War Department any more.I voted for Bruce Rauner. I am very disappointed in him. I believe he lied to all of us. He let us all down. He talked the talk, but he sure doesn't walk the walk. And then I remembered, he's married to a Democrat and she apparently pulls his strings. He's the worst governor ever, and he's such a liar and he's such a big disappointment.Do the people who keep chanting that no evidence of collusion has been found really believe that if they repeat the lie often enough, we'll start to believe it? The Trump Tower meeting between Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, Paul Manafort and a whole bunch of Russians was evidence of collusion. George Papadopoulos getting the "dirt" on Hillary from her emails was evidence of collusion. Michael Flynn meeting with Russians during the transition to discuss removing sanctions against them was evidence of collusion. Trump meeting in the Oval Office with Russians, giving them top secret information while Russian media recorded the event, but American media was excluded, is evidence of collusion. We can see what went on, and won't be fooled by your fake news propaganda.Spray candy mold with non-stick spray being careful not to get spray in the area used for the sticks. Place a candy thermometer on the inside edge of a medium pot with a heavy bottom. Add the sugar, corn syrup, candy and water to the pot. Stir gently and cook over medium high heat until candy thermometer reads 295 degrees. Be sure not to let any candy stick to the bottom while cooking. Remove pot from heat and let cool until temperature falls to 280 degrees. Carefully spoon the liquid into the molds and add the stick. Spoon a little more liquid over the stick to cover it but be careful not overfill. Be sure to pour out any extra liquid and fill pot with water to clean it as soon as you are finished making the candy. When cool, remove lollipops from mold and wrap. Makes 15 lollipops. These lollipops can be made in other flavors. Omit red hots and increase sugar to 1  cups. Cook mixture until it reaches 280 degrees and then add flavoring and color of your choice. Finish following recipe."Of course, I didn't realize when we picked it (the theme) that it would be a blizzard outside," Emanuel added with a laugh. "So I have been getting nagged on a little bit by some staff, saying we asked the 'Snow Queen' to come and she showed up!"She also said in her letter that 30 percent of the teaching staff has been replaced with Indiana-certified teachers, while the remaining 70 percent have been given one year to obtain an Indiana license or show they're enrolled in an accredited teaching program that leads to licensure."Hopefully, it's as good as last year," he said. The bakery sold about 4,700 paczki, a record year. "It caught us by surprise. I had 4,000 ready and my wife called me at 7 a.m. and said we're almost out." Henze said he rushed back to make more.Already, the 17.7 million blue agaves planted in 2011 in Mexico for use this year fall far short of the 42 million the industry needs to supply 140 registered companies, according to figures from the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT) and the National Tequila Industry Chamber (CNIT).World War II aircraft set for 3-day display at Pueblo Memorial Airport

The Commemorative Air Force is bringing a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber and SNJ advanced trainer to the Pueblo airport for public tours and flights.By Nayoung Mathiesen

Foreign investors that would like to understand the senior care sector in China may find a comparison to the hospitality sector helpful.

The hospitality sector boomed over the past 30 years as the Chinese economy grew and visitors poured in. Chinese real estate players rushed into the sector, and they absolutely wanted to work with well-known global luxury brands to develop the sector. Domestic investors were totally dependent on their Western partners management and operational know-how  there were no local culture or competence in the sector.

As a result, global hotel brands had been given relative autonomy in how they operate their branded hotels in China. Global rating systems and training programs obligated Chinese owners to stick to their agreements.

How does this compare to the senior care sector?

The Chinese government has given foreign operators relative freedom to enter China, make investments in the senior sector, and operate their business. However, foreign investors found out that it is practically impossible for them to establish and operate care facilities on their own. Many then pursued models similar to those used in the hospitality sector: find a local real estate player, partner up, and take charge of the operation.

But its starting to look like this model is not working out. Why?

Domestic investors do not view senior care as service driven

The hospitality industry is required to maintain a high-level of service that consumer expect from five-star brands. To meet these expectations, most Chinese owners are dependent on their global brand partners for guidance and support.

In the senior care sector, however, many Chinese owners do not see this sector as a service driven, and they do not want to pay for support from Western companies. Rather, these owners prefer short-term operational support for two to three years before they establish themselves for independent operations.

Domestic companies target mid- to low-income clientele

Many of the Chinese operators coming into the market are aiming for mid- to low-income level clientele. This is because the government just implemented a long-term care insurance policy in 2017 that guaranteed reimbursements from the state for many seniors.

At this level, most senior clients tend to be at a late stage that requires support for most vital functions, and Chinese senior care providers seek to provide only very basic support and procedures for these functions.

The absence of global brands in senior care

The senior care sector does not have global brands like the hospitality sector, which has well-established global brands that are household names. This means there are not as many best practices for the domestic senior care sector to adopt from internationally recognized best practices.

Culture and lifestyle differences

Western seniors that opt for a high-end senior living community as their retirement option are used to an independent lifestyle, often in sprawling suburban neighborhoods. Chinese consumers, on the other hand, never experienced this lifestyle, and their current homes in dense, high-rise buildings are more conducive to senior living communities in an urban setting. Chinese consumers do not yearn for proximity to pristine nature; proximity to their children may often be a more important consideration.

Chinese consumers willingness to pay for high-end care facilities is much lower than what many early investors initially anticipated. Consumers who are around 55 years old or more lived a majority of their lives during a very different economic environment than today. Even after they acquired wealth, they do not often allow themselves to spend for their own comfort.

RELATED: China Releases New Medical Device Classification Catalogue

Current challenges

Most foreign investors that entered China a few years ago have now met a second wave of challenges: locating, hiring, training, and retaining talent.

The biggest challenge lies in lack of central government defined senior care standards  both in the quality framework of centers as well as service and training standards. The existing training program for caregivers, which the government heavily subsidized, turned out to be not so effective; the programs generated certificate holders with little practical knowledge.

Once the government realized its program was ineffective, it pretty much scrapped the existing certificate standards and matching training programs. Nevertheless, the government estimates that the market currently needs 13 million basic caregivers.

A more acute need lies in training for managers that run facilities that are popping up everywhere  nursing homes, community centers, and daycare centers. This is one of the areas where foreign investors can find opportunities, if they develop a system that provides practical skills at low cost.

China needs trained professionalism the senior care sector  managers, operations personnel, specialized nurses, caregivers of different competence levels  not to mention medical specialists such as gerontologists and geriatric doctors.

Where does the future of the market lie?

The middle-class population is more and more accepting of the idea of sending their parents to nursing homes. Health awareness is also improving fast for middle-class, middle-aged people. This group will demand professional services by caregivers who understand health, and they will be willing to pay more for professional services when the time comes.

But this level of caregiving lies far beyond what is currently accepted at hospice-like care centers, which may not be much more than feeding, cleaning, and changing body positions to avoid bed sores. New demand in the sector will likely come in professional services. Professional service providers with specialized care will finally see the market demand  such as home care, post-surgery care, special therapy, and dementia care.

A large number of middle-class seniors still live at home, but their children, who are often active professionals, and have their own children, are the primary customer group for professional senior care services. This group will demand more specialized care services, and many of them will be willing to pay for the services, whether at the home or institutional level. A bigger chunk of demand is likely come from the private domestic market.

It is worth remembering the governments mandate: 90 percent of the senior population will need care from their families, while the government will take care of the remaining 10 percent of the senior population. Does this mean that there will be market demand similar to the Western-style senior living communities? Its unlikely.

A number of insurance industry giants are heavily invested in the senior care sector in China. However, they are looking for further opportunities. Besides the government sponsored long-term care insurance, there are bound to be many private insurance products that can be created with a focus in the aged care in the as explained above.

Business Model Comparison Services from Dezan Shira & Associates

For investors to build their business for the senior market, it is essential that the government set policy and quality standards. Accordingly, things appear to be changing: more people are talking about an integrated care solution and quality standardization. When these ideas pick up momentum, it will create new opportunities for a number of players in the insurance industry, as well as healthcare and senior care consulting.

These opportunities will not come without their challenges. As the senior care sector grows rapidly, many expect the government to impose stricter standards and regulatory frameworks. Will they go for cumbersome regulations that will make this sector expensive to operate or will they opt for models that are more practical?

Western companies can and should play a role in this process, and once such framework is set, it will create further opportunities for new and innovative products and services. Many Western companies are trying to use strategies that worked in their domestic markets, but they should think strategically to succeed in China: study the market thoroughly, think with clear vision, strategy, and business model, and localize by finding a good local partner or building a competent local team. It may not be easy, but the market is there.

Nayoung Mathiesen is a serial entrepreneur with a professional background sourced from South Korea, US, Norway, and Singapore; she arrived in Shanghai in 2014. Currently, she runs her startup STIA, creating fun, interactive, bite-size digital training content for the Senior Care sector. STIAs content provides training for caregivers as well as useful health information for seniors and their family members to maintain healthy and independent lifestyles. She also co-chairs the Entrepreneurship Committee at AmCham Shanghai. She can be contacted at nayoung@stiachina.com.An exhibition titled "The Centennial Exhibition of Shanghai Style Cheongsams" kicked off at the China Culture Center in Paris on Feb. 8.

Co-hosted by the China Culture Center in Paris and the Shanghai Intangible Cultural Heritages Protection Association, the exhibition is a part of the "Happy Chinese New Year" series of cultural activities to welcome the upcoming Year of the Dog.

The exhibition comprises 20 cheongsams of different styles and from different time periods, showcasing the long-standing Chinese cheongsam culture and the aesthetics of Shanghai people in the past.

Cheongsam originates from the Manchu clothing of women in the Qing dynasty. Influenced by the Shanghai culture and Western clothing, cheongsam integrates traditional culture and modern elements, forming the Shanghai style cheongsam.

Yan Zhenquan, director of the China Culture Center in Paris, said that cheongsam is the most featured Chinese clothing in the eyes of foreigners and representative of the Chinese clothing culture.

He said he hopes that the exhibition can boost the cultural exchanges between China and France, and the French audience can have a better understanding about the Chinese culture.

The exhibition runs until Feb. 28. Special lectures about cheongsams will be held during the exhibition.Art troupes, organized by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council, staged a variety of performances at the Hong Kong Coliseum over Feb 4-5.







Ahead of this year's Chinese New Year that falls on Feb 16, the shows marked the debut of the tourCultures of China, Festival of Springfor 2018.





The annual event, held for the past 10 years, is a platform that promotes Chinese culture and seeks to embrace overseas Chinese on the occasion of Spring Festival, the traditional Chinese New Year holiday.





The shows staged in Hong Kong included folk dances from different ethnic groups, traditional acrobatics and pop songs.





Teachers and students from Beijing Dance Academy, who had presented seven performances out of a total 15 programs, seemed to be the main force of the shows.





Guo Lei, headmaster of the academy, says this is the first time his team is playing a leading role at the annual cultural event of the State Council, China's Cabinet.





"It's a great opportunity to carry forward our traditions. And, the multiethnic culture of the country is on display through the achievements and artworks of our academy," says Guo.





The coliseum, where around 12,000 audience members were present, hummed with joy and activity after the performances.





The tour will end in March after shows in 16 countries and regions around the world, including Thailand, Malaysia and the United States, according to Tan Tianxing, deputy-director of the State Council's Overseas Chinese Affairs Office.





This year, six art troupes will travel abroad for the shows.





Over the past decade, 69 art troupes have performed in 303 cities in the world, attracting more than 6 million in audiences, Tan says.





The tour has already become a Spring Festival gala not only for overseas Chinese but also for mainstream society in some foreign countries, which is conducive to promoting the friendship between China and other nations, he says.





Wang Baoyu, a secretary in the same office, has traveled with different troupes for the annual tour for years. This time, he is accompanying the troupes to Macao after Hong Kong.





"We have been preparing for the shows since September," says Wang.





He says they try to combine Chinese culture and local features in the shows, fully considering audience interest.





And the tour sometimes also welcomes overseas Chinese to stage performances of their own.





"Last year, some overseas Chinese provided three programs during our show in France," Wang says.





"We want to help strengthen the identity of overseas Chinese and also overcome their homesickness."



The "Happy Chinese New Year" celebrations, one of China's largest cultural exchange activities at the international level, have been staged in a great number of countries such as Britain, Germany, Hungary, Turkey, Nepal, Laos and Rwanda.







Sparkling performances and diverse activities reflected a festive mood in celebrating traditional Chinese culture around the world.





With activities in more than 30 categories, such as exhibitions, temple fairs and cultural forums, it was planned to hold the event in over 400 cities of over 130 countries and regions.





A Terracotta Warriors exhibition opened in Liverpool's World Museum, in northern England on Feb. 9, displaying items spanning almost 1,000 years of Chinese history, from the conflicts and chaos of the Warring States era to the achievements and legacy of the Qin and Han dynasties.





During a ceremony held at the museum on Feb. 8 before the exhibit opened, Mark Blundell, the Queen's Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, read a message from Prime Minister Theresa May, declaring: "This exhibition is one of the most significant archaeological finds in history, and is a wonderful symbol of enduring friendship between our countries and our peoples."





From lion dance to synchronized singing, performances brought joy to children and adults alike at the British School in Brussels on Feb. 9.





Principal Melanie Warnes said, "We sincerely hope we can hold such an event again, and I am still enjoying the show today. Organizing such cultural exchange activities can also help to create a harmonious working environment."The China Cultural Center in Riga held its first Chinese New Year gala in the Latvian capital on Feb. 10.

The gala was a part of the "Happy Chinese New Year" series of celebrations, sponsored by the Chinese Embassy in Latvia, the China Cultural Center in Riga, as well as the Shanghai and Suzhou municipal administrations of culture, radio, film & TV.



Chinese and local people attending various events, including cultural performances and a temple fair, shared in the joy of celebrations for the upcoming Chinese New Year.

During the temple fair, Latvian attendees were enthralled by the master craftsmen showcasing embroidery, papercutting, sculpture and other delicate handicrafts with unique charm of southern China. A photo exhibition was also held to present a colorful and eventful Spring Festival in a vivid manner. People also enjoyed games, small gifts and delicious Chinese snacks and food.



A group of artists from Shanghai staged a grand concert in the wake of the temple fair. The orchestra presented a feast of traditional Chinese music as well as the well-known Latvian folk music.



The Chinese version of "Killing Commendatore", a new novel written by prestigious Japanese author Haruki Murakami, is expected to be released around March 10, said Huang Yuning, a department head at Shanghai Translation Publishing House, the book's Chinese publisher, Beijing Youth Daily reports.





Presale of the book, which has 700,000 copies printed for its first edition, was launched on Feb. 5.





The book has aroused widespread attention in China for the author's reflections on war crimes Japan committed during its aggression against China, including the Nanjing Massacre.





In Murakami's novel, the hero, a 36-year-old Japanese portrait painter, found a mysterious painting titled "Killing Commendatore" in the attic of a renowned artist's house. The book then relates the sad life experiences of the artist, author of the painting and his family members.





Part of the story is about the artist's younger brother who was enlisted into the Japanese army and dispatched to China in 1937 when Japan began its full-scale invasion of China. The soldier suffered strong trauma for killing Chinese captives in the most atrocious ways, which, as a consequence, led to his suicide after retirement from military service.





Murakami touched upon not only the invasion and occupation of Austria by Nazi Germany in 1938, but historical facts including the Lugouqiao (Marco Polo Bridge) Incident and the Nanjing Massacre in 1937.





The invading Japanese troops brutally killed more than 300,000 Chinese civilians and unarmed soldiers over a period of six weeks following the capture of Nanjing in 1937.





In regard to the viciousness of war, the author has shown his immense concern on how war can crush every young heart's longing for a promising and beautiful life.





However, Murakami's novel has met intense attacks from Japan's right-wing extremists who have been consistently trying to deny the massacre. They have accused Murakami of seeking to flatter China and using the book as a stepping stone towards winning the Nobel Prize in Literature.





In response, Murakami stressed that his motive in writing this story was to fight against any attempts to distort history.





For every country in the world, history is a collective memory. Therefore, it is wrong to forget it as a thing of the past or fabricate it. Such attempts should be met with protest, Murakami said during an interview last April.





Novelists can fight against such attempts by means of storytelling, and I believe in the power of stories, he added.





Li Shengjie, a scholar of Japanese literature from Wuhan University, refuted the right-wing allegations, insisting Murakami did not make a sudden change in his focus in an effort to win the Nobel Prize.





Different from his early works which mainly involve personal experiences and feelings, his novels have undergone a gradual change in subject and style since 1995, when the author was stunned by the Aum Shinrikyo cult sarin gas attack in Tokyo's subway system, Li explained.





The tragedy has aroused his concerns over social and historical issues, which can be reflected in his ensuing stories such as "IQ84". His continued contemplation of the historical problems facing his country inspired his latest work, the scholar said.





Murakami, a prolific and iconic writer in Japan, rose to stardom with his book "Norwegian Wood" published in 1987.



Vice Premier Wang Yang on Sunday emphasized that religions in China must be Chinese in orientation and seek to better adapt to socialist society.

Wang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks at a symposium with leaders of national religious groups ahead of Spring Festival (Chinese Lunar New Year).

Wang said that religious circles in China needed to further study the spirit of the 19th National Congress of the CPC, and active guidance should be provided to religious groups so that they can better adapt to socialist society.

The vice premier expressed appreciation for the positive role religious groups play in promoting ethnic unity, religious progress and social harmony.

"More effort was needed to better explain the policy on religious affairs and educate and train more professionals in religious circles," he said.

To solve problems and overcome difficulties in religious affairs, we should think and act in terms of the rule of law, Wang said. "Governments at all levels should always support religious groups and fully respect and protect their lawful rights and interests."

Wang extended New Year greetings to religious circles in China ahead of the Spring Festival, which falls on Feb. 16 this year.

Representatives from the Buddhist Association of China, the Taoist Association of China, the Islamic Association of China, the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association, and the Three-Self Patriotic Movement Committee of the Protestant Churches in China made speeches at the symposium.The Ministry of Science and Technology says China's financial input in R&D in basic sciences doubled in the past five years.

Vice-Minister of Science and Technology Huang Wei says the country has issued proposals on strengthening all basic science research, with the aim to make China a global innovation leader in science and technology.

"The proposals have set the goal of making China an important science center and an innovation highland in the world by the middle of this century and bringing forth international top-level science masters, who have a large number of major original science achievements to their credit."

Zhang Xiaoyuan, an official overseeing resource allocation and management at the ministry, says the government currently supports basic science research by either directly giving money to research institutions or allowing them to bid for projects.

Zhang says the central government will further encourage the participation of local governments and businesses in the implementation of major projects on basic science research in the future and explore means of charity and donation.

The State Council recently released guidelines on strengthening research in basic sciences to lay out basic principles and major arrangements.On February 11, China's President Xi Jinping visited Sanhe village in Sanchahe town of Zhaojue county, in the Daliang Mountain of Sichuan province.



It was no short ride, taking all of two hours by car from Xichang city. The president had gone there to visit poverty-stricken families of the Yi ethnic group, to see their living conditions and ask what they need.

Frankly, nothing about that trip was new, as he normally visits poverty-stricken areas during the annual Spring Festival celebrations, if only to let the poorest know they are not at all forgotten.

But long before becoming president, while governor of Fujian province between 1999 and 2002, Xi had been identifying with the poor  and initiated a unique approach to alleviating their conditions.

It all started in Minning, a small town in northwest China's Ningxia, where Xi pioneered a system which focused on the poor as individuals  and drew-up specific plans for each person based on their individual needs, rather than trying to help poor communities and hoping it would trickle-down to the poorest.

Today, Minning is a model town  and its model has been adopted nationally as China moves to eradicate poverty. Indeed, its application under Xi's presidency has yielded bountiful results. From 1980 to 2017, the number of people living in poverty across China has been reduced from 775 million to 30 million. From 2013 to 2017, however, the five-year figure was 66 million.

This tremendous feat was achieved, not through a mere declaration, but by the Party and state unleashing the human and financial resources, backed by forward central planning and clear political commitment.

In 2014, for example, some 800,000 persons were deployed across China to survey 128,000 targeted poor villages with a total population of 89.6 million people. The vast army of researchers was given only six months to report  and based on the findings, methods were recommended and prescribed, adopted and implemented.

Then, in November 2015, Xi set poverty alleviation as one of his presidency's main objectives, designating it as "the baseline task for building a moderately prosperous society," planned to be created through Socialism with Chinese Characteristics by 2020.

Currently, over 10 million Chinese are being taken out of extreme poverty annually  a success being applauded worldwide, even by those disagreeing with China's political ideology.

But China didn't do it alone.

The World Bank has provided related funding support to China since 1996; and with World Bank and United Nations Development Program (UNDP) help, the International Poverty Reduction Center was established in China in 2004. The World Bank, UNDP, the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Asia Development Bank have also been providing funds, ideas and technology to China.

China is in turn sharing both methods and resources with countries worldwide, especially least developed nations.

Published records show that in the last three decades, some 166 countries benefited from billions of dollars' worth of interest-free Chinese aid disbursed through 600,000 workers deployed internationally. Similarly, medical aid had also been extended to some 69 developing countries.

China has also assisted 120 developing countries to achieve their related Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), while continuing to share its vision and contribute to the achievement of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

The world ended 2017 with over 700 million people still living in extreme poverty; and China started 2018 with just over 30 million.

Poverty eradication continues to be the dream and goal of many governments and international institutions across the globe.

With China's targeted deadline now only two years away, it's a race against time. There are still major challenges to be overcome.

But, as was noted on April 28, 2017 by Ashwani Muthoo, director of the Global Engagement, Knowledge and Strategy Division of the UN's International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) during an international seminar on Global Partnership for Poverty Reduction, "China's approach is both efficient and effective."

The theory and practice of China's targeted poverty reduction approach, therefore, clearly shows that with policy support and appropriate measures, it is indeed possible to eradicate poverty.

Earl Bousquet is a contributor to china.org.cn, editor-at-large of The Diplomatic Courier and author of an online regional newspaper column entitled Chronicles of a Chronic Caribbean Chronicler.

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.Wuzhen Town, China's Zhejiang

During the Spring Festival, the streets in Wuzhen are illuminated for the celebration. People put up posters on their doors and walls. Many customs of the lunar New Year holidays are inherited in the town. The most distinctive one is the "long street banquet". In the past, wealthy families would hold banquets for guests in the Spring Festival. The neighbors set out tables and chairs along the street. The connected tables formed the lively and colorful "long street banquet".

Today, the "long street banquet" is still held in Wuzhen town with more splendid dishes. The most indispensable one is the well-known braised sheep. It is a usual practice to put up a pot and boil sheep meat. The scent penetrates the whole street. Visitors are strongly advised to taste this gourmet.

Other activities in the town: worshipping the kitchen god (Dec.23 on the lunar new year); pasting spring couplets, setting off fireworks and holding the reunion dinner (on the eve of the lunar new year); burning the first incense, watching traditional Chinese opera, enjoying festive lanterns, attending the temple fair and the lantern festival in January. [China.org.cn]Photo shows the scenery of Shimian county, southwest China's Sichuan province. China releases giant pandas into the wild in the county. Peaceful forests and stunning cliffs make this county a photographer's and road tripper's paradise. [China.org.cn] Flash

The traditional Chinese Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival, was officially celebrated here in Bulgaria's capital city on Sunday.

The event, jointly organized by the China Cultural Center in Sofia and Sofia Municipality under the title "Happy Chinese New Year", was held in the archaeological complex Serdica, adjacent to the buildings of the Bulgarian council of ministers, presidency and parliament.

During the two-hour long festivities, artists from China's Ningbo city performed traditional Chinese songs and dances, and demonstrated Chinese crafts such as calligraphy, embroidery, paper cutting, and dough figurines making.

Meanwhile, the audience enjoyed a photo exhibition showing last year's celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival in various cities around the world.

Gu Hongxing, cultural counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Sofia , said at the opening ceremony that the Spring Festival is the most important Chinese traditional holiday.

He said he hoped that this celebration would create a festive atmosphere for the coming spring and provide aesthetic delight.

Bilyana Genova, head of the Cultural Directorate of Sofia Municipality, said in turn she was very happy that her city had the opportunity to join this wonderful tradition, which has already been celebrated in many cities around the world.

Han Xiaoyin, deputy director of Ningbo Culture, Radio, Television, Press and Publication Bureau, said the artists from his city have prepared an original program that would reveal the specifics of Chinese culture.

"Through it, we will encourage friendship between Ningbo city and Sofia," Han said.

At the end of January, Bulgarian cities of Varna and Veliko Turnovo already officially celebrated the Chinese New Year, enjoying the Chinese Classical Dance "Fen Mo" performed by 40 dancers from the Beijing Dance Academy. Flash

Three people were killed after a tour helicopter carrying seven people crashed in the Grand Canyon in the U.S. state of Arizona on Saturday.

The other four people were rescued from the deadly helicopter crash and were being treated at a Las Vegas hospital early Sunday morning.

British Foreign Office confirmed on Sunday night those killed were three Britons and it was providing support to their families and those of three more Britons who were injured.

"We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on Feb. 10, and we are in close contact with the U.S. emergency services," a Foreign Office spokesperson said.

The helicopter came down at about 17:20 local time (0020 GMT) on Saturday by the Grand Canyon's West Rim. Witnesses said at the crash site that black smokes and flames were spewing and explosions could be heard.

Six passengers and a pilot were on board the aircraft which was operated by tour company Papillon Airways. It is not clear what caused the crash.

The Papillon Airways is based in the western U.S. state of Nevada. According to the company's website, it flies about 600,000 passengers a year in its provided tours.

Its website reads: "at Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, safety is our top priority. Papillon Airways, Inc. and its subsidiaries are fully certified by the Tour Operators Program of Safety."

The Federal Aviation Administration will be investigating the crash of the Eurocopter EC 130, spokesperson Allen Kenitzer said.

In 2001, a Grand Canyon tour helicopter operated by Papillon crashed and killed six people. A report issued on the investigation of the crash said it is the pilot's operation of descending too fast and too close to the scenic cliffs that led to the tragedy. Flash

The Oxfam, an international anti-poverty charity, which has been hit by a sex abuse scandal in Haiti, now is facing more sex allegations from Chad.

The charity, one of the biggest and best known in Britain, was plunged into crisis after it was revealed that its staff, including its local director, paid for sex in Haiti where they were based in 2011 after a devastating earthquake.

The Sunday Times reported in London that more than 120 aid workers with leading charities in Britain have been accused of sexual abuse in the past year.

The newspaper said the figures fuelled fears that paedophiles were targeting overseas aid organizations.

An investigation by the Times published Friday exposed the Oxfam sex scandal, saying it led to Oxfam's director in Haiti, Belgian national Roland van Hauwermeiren resigning from the organization.

More trouble emerged for Oxfam Sunday when the Observer newspaper in London reported claims that in 2006, aid workers with the charity used prostitutes while working in Chad.

The Observer reported that at the time van Hauwermeiren was head of Oxfam's operation in Chad.

The newspaper said former staff who worked for the charity in Chad alleged that women believed to be prostitutes were repeatedly invited to the Oxfam team house there, with one adding that a senior member of staff had been fired for his behavior in 2006.

Media in Britain reported that Penny Mordaunt, Britain's international development secretary, is to hold a crunch meeting Monday with Oxfam officials.

In a television interview Sunday, Mordaunt accused Oxfam of failing in its moral leadership.

She said she is considering whether Oxfam should receive any more funding from the government's Department for International Development (DFID). Last year, Oxfam received 44 million U.S. dollars from DFID.

Mordaunt, described the events in Haiti as a scandal, and said what is alleged to have happened was a complete betrayal of both the people Oxfam were there to help, and also the people that sent them there to do that job.

She said: "If they (Oxfam) do not hand over all the information that they have from their investigation and subsequently to the relevant authorities including the Charity Commission and prosecuting authorities, then I cannot work with them any more as an aid delivery partner."

Seven Oxfam staff, including van Hauwermeiren, either resigned or were fired as a result of the Haiti scandal.

Haiti's Ambassador in London Bocchit Edmond has criticized Oxfam for failing to inform the country's authorities about the scandal, and said it should publicly apologize.

Priti Patel, Britain's former international development secretary, said in interviews Sunday she had raised the problem of sexual exploitation by workers with NGOs at a meeting of the UN, but she added she was unaware of the Oxfam allegations.

In her interviews she warned predatory paedophiles had been allowed to exploit the aid sector.

The Sunday Times said Oxfam recorded 87 incidents last year of sexual abuse, Save the Children recorded 31, 10 of which were referred to the police and civil authorities, and the charity Christian Aid two. Of the Oxfam cases, 53 were referred to the police or other statutory authorities. A total of 20 staff or volunteers were dismissed. The charity employs 5,000 staff and has a further 23,000 volunteers, said the Observer. Flash

At least 10 terrorists have been killed on Sunday during a police raid in Arish city of Egypt's North Sinai province bordering Israel and the Palestinian Gaza Strip, a security source and medics said.

They added that the dead bodies of the 10 militants have been moved to a hospital in nearby Ismailia province.

The raid comes while the country is launching a massive counterterrorism anti-terror campaign named "Comprehensive Operation Sinai 2018" that started on Friday.

Earlier on Sunday, the Egyptian army announced that it killed at least 16 militants and arrested four suspects in the restive northern part of the Sinai Peninsula since the major operation started.

North Sinai has been the center of terrorist attacks that killed hundreds of policemen and soldiers following the military removal of former Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in July 2013 in response to mass protests.

Attacks later extended to reach several other provinces including the capital Cairo and started to target the Coptic minority via church bombings and shootings.

Terrorists in Egypt did not stop at targeting security personnel and Copts, as they stormed a mosque in Arish city last November, killing at least 310 Muslim worshippers and injuring more than 120 others, marking the deadliest terror attack and the first against a mosque in Egypt's modern history.

Most of the terror attacks were carried out by the so-called Wilayat Sinai (Sinai state or province), a Sinai-based group affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) regional terrorist group. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the mosque attack though.

Following the mosque attack, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi ordered the army to restore security and stability in North Sinai within three months.

Egyptian security forces have so far killed hundreds of terrorists and arrested thousands of suspects during the country's anti-terror war declared by Sisi, the army chief then, following Morsi's ouster in 2013.

The comprehensive anti-terror operation "Sinai 2018" comes weeks before Egypt starts its 2018 presidential elections scheduled for late March, where incumbent President Sisi is expected to make an easy win for a second term due to the lack of strong challengers in the race. Flash

China will play a bigger role in the reconstruction and development process in the war-torn Syria through increasing its aid, Chinese Ambassador to Syria Qi Qianjin said Sunday.

"I think it's about time to focus all efforts on the development and reconstruction of Syria, and I think China will play a bigger role in this process by providing more aid to the Syrian people and the Syrian government," the ambassador said during a tour to the al-Muwasat University Hospital in Damascus.

China has made several donations to support the health sector in Syria, the latest of which is funding the renovation of the emergency department of the al-Muwasat University Hospital.

Qi visited Sunday the emergency department in which China has contributed to its rehabilitation.

In January 2017, the Chinese government donated US$1 million to the World Health Organization (WHO) for supporting a humanitarian project on addressing the health issues of affected Syrians.

The project includes providing health care services for Syrian refugees and improving primary health care and outreaching health services in Syria.

The project of rehabilitating the emergency center in the al-Muwasat University Hospital reflects a concrete implementation of the Chinese humanitarian aid, said the Chinese embassy in a statement.

It added that part of the funding for the renovation of the emergency department came from the Chinese donation. The project includes changing electrical wires, water pipes, elevators, and provision of beds and medical equipment.

"We believe this project will play an active role in improving the local medical and health situation," the embassy's statement read.

Qi said that he hopes the Chinese donation will help improve the medical services provided for the Syrian people.

"We wish that these donations for this hospital and other organizations help provide the best services to the Syrian people, especially the sick. These donations are also a clear evidence of the deep friendship between the governments of China and Syria and the peoples of China and Syria," he said.

For his part, Esam Ameen, the head of the al-Muwasat University Hospital, expressed gratitude for the Chinese support.

"China's supportive stance was not only in the political field, but also on the practical level, as China has provided much aid, including this help in renovating the emergency center, which has provided a vital service for the Syrian people," Ameen said.

Elizabeth Hoff, the WHO representative in Syria, said the Chinese support was generous.

"China has provided very generous support for the renovation of the emergency department of the hospital on behalf of the WHO," Hoff said.

"I wish to thank the Chinese people through the Chinese ambassador for this generous contribution so that we could render the services effective and efficient here in the emergency department," he said. Flash

African National Congress (ANC) President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed on Sunday that the ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) will soon finalize talks on President Jacob Zuma's future.

"It will all come to an end. We know you want closure on this matter," Ramaphosa said while launching centenary celebrations in honor of late president Nelson Mandela at the Grand Parade in Cape Town.

Ramaphosa was speaking ahead of Monday's meeting of the NEC, the ANC's highest decision-making body, to continue discussions on Zuma's exit.

Ramaphosa hinted that the ANC was not successful in negotiating a graceful exit deal with Zuma and that the NEC meeting will recall him tomorrow.

He stressed the importance of managing the discussions with purpose.

The interests of people must be put first, not the interests of individuals, said Ramaphosa.

"We must keep our eyes on what is in the interests of all our people," he said, to the applause of thousands of ANC supporters.

Ramaphosa also took the opportunity to stress the ANC's unity.

"The ANC comes from disunity and must now forge for unity," he said.

The Mandela centenary celebrations offer a new beginning for the ANC, said Ramaphosa.

To carry out Mandela's legacy, the ANC must fight corruption, Ramaphosa said.

He said 2018 will be the year of continuing Mandela's legacy of fighting corruption, and that those who are corrupt, and stealing from the poor, will be brought to justice.

"We have no other choice but to continue fighting corruption" Ramaphosa said. "That is what Nelson Mandela would have wanted."

"The centenary of the birth of Nelson Mandela gives us a great opportunity for renewal and rebuilding. As we remember this great leader, this year gives us an opportunity as we remember Mandela, to reaffirm our vision of a non-racial society, to build an SA for all our people," said Ramaphosa.

Since Ramaphosa was elected ANC president in December, pressure has been mounting for Zuma to resign as head of state amid allegations of his involvement in a series of corruption scandals. Flash

An Israeli Iron dome system has been deployed on the Israeli occupied Golan Heights near the ceasefire line between Israel and Syria on Sunday.

The Israeli army launched a large-scale attack against the Syrian aerial defense system and Iranian targets in Syria in response to an Israeli F-16 fighter shot down by missiles from Syria on Saturday morning.

Twelve targets, including three aerial defense batteries and four Iranian targets that are part of Iran's military establishment in Syria were attacked, said a statement issued by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).





During the attack, anti-aircraft missiles were fired towards Israel, triggering alarms that were heard in northern Israel, said the Israeli army.

The IDF will "act determinately against such severe violations of Israeli sovereignty by Iran and Syria and will continue to act as necessary," said the IDF in the statement.

The IDF is "ready for various scenarios and will continue to act according to situation assessments," added the IDF. Flash

China and Pakistan signed Executive Programme of Cultural Agreement to further consolidate cultural relations and to promote people-to-people contacts between the two states in Beijing on Monday.

Chinese Minister of Culture Luo Shugang and Minister of State for Information, Broadcasting, National History and Literary Heritage, Marriyum Aurangzeb, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective countries.

Marriyum expressed the confidence that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would take the bilateral relations between the two countries to new heights. She said that people of both countries wanted to enhance the cultural collaboration and added that President Xi Jinpings vision of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was a historic milestone not only for the countries along the belt and road but also the regions beyond.

She said that after signing the agreement, there was a greater responsibility on both the countries to strive for time bound implementation process.

The Minister of State said that the economic cooperation and infrastructure development and energy projects and the people to people exchanges would enhance contacts and share the heritage of both countries.

She informed that last year, CPEC Cultural Caravan was organized from Xian to Gwadar. Chinese group of visual artists and performing arts also participated.

The Minister of State proposed to work on setting up of Pak-China National Culture Center in Islamabad and hoped to organize mutual photography exhibition and grant cultural scholarship to students in universities. She also proposed to establish a FM Radio with an access along the CPEC route in Pakistan.

Chinese Minister for Culture Luo Shugang welcomed the minister and her delegation and said that China and Pakistan had special relations and friendly bonds particularly after the visit of President Xi Jinping to Pakistan in 2015.

He said that China acknowledged CPEC as flagship project of BRI and it was more than a corridor of economic and trade but a corridor of cultural exchanges between the two brotherly countries.

He also thanked the Government of Pakistan for helping in establishing China Cultural Center which was inaugurated in Islamabad last year, adding that, till now 38 different types of events including exhibitions and performing arts had been introduced in less than a year.

The Chinese Culture Minister said that the two countries could work together in archaeology and heritage preservation and offered Chinese assistance for establishment of archaeology and heritage center in Pakistan.

Ambassador of Pakistan Masood Khalid and senior officials of both the countries were present on this occasion.



Westerville Police (COLUMBUS, Ohio) -- Ohio Gov. John Kasich Monday ordered all flags be flown at half-staff in the state in honor of two police officers who were gunned down in the governor's hometown while responding to a 911 hang-up call.



Westerville police officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli were "true American heroes" and "were two of the best we had," Westerville Police Chief Joe Morbitzer said this weekend.



This was their calling, and they did it right," Morbitzer said.



A procession was held this morning for the fallen officers, leading from the coroner's office to the funeral homes.



The two were responding to a potential domestic situation Saturday and were "immediately met with gunfire" and exchanged fire with the suspect, Morbitzer said.



Morelli, 54, was a 29-year veteran of the department. Joering, 39, was a 16-year veteran of the department. Morelli was married with two children and Joering was married with four daughters, according to The New York Times.



Morbitzer said Sunday that as the department works with the families on funeral arrangements, the police "have seen fake GoFundMe pages established already. We have had people calling our radio room screaming threats, obscenities and vulgarities at our radio techs. And quite frankly theres a special place in hell for those people, and my wish is that it comes very soon.



The suspect, 30-year-old Quentin Lamar Smith, was also injured in the shooting and is in the hospital, police said. He is expected to survive, police said.



The Columbus Division of Police, which is leading the investigation, has filed two counts of aggravated murder charges, according to the city of Westerville.



He has not yet entered a plea.



President Donald Trump tweeted Sunday that he spoke to Kasich "to express condolences and prayers to all for the horrible shooting of two great police officers."



Kasich tweeted about the shooting several times, including to say, "The finest among us are those who risk it all everyday for our safety, and Officers Anthony Morelli and Eric Joering were those people. Their deaths are a terrible tragedy for my hometown of Westerville and all of Ohio."



New York City Police Commissioner James O'Neill also spoke out, tweeting, "Everyone should be as upset about this as Americas law enforcement officers are. No cop, anywhere, 'signed up' to be murdered."

Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.Taiwan said on Sunday it had called a halt to rescue efforts after two more mainland tourists were confirmed dead in the powerful earthquake last week in Hualien county, bringing the death toll to 17.

The location of the bodies of the two tourists was verified and they were pinned under rubble, said Fu Kun-chi, head of Hualien county.

"We decided to dismantle the building from the top to retrieve the bodies, with the family members' approval," he said.KATHMANDU - A special Spring Festival gala evening has been held in the Nepalese capital of Kathmandu to celebrate the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year.

The event, hosted by the Chinese embassy in Nepal and inaugurated by Nepali President Bidhya Devi Bhandari on Friday evening, gave the audience a vivid glimpse into China's rich culture and traditions.

Chinese Ambassador Yu Hong said such events provide an opportunity for the Nepali people to understand better about Chinese art and culture.The state of California cannot compel a Christian baker to create a same-sex wedding cake because that would be tantamount to violation of free speech, a Superior Court judge has ruled on Feb. 5.

On Monday, Judge David Lampe turned down California's application for a preliminary injunction. Had this not been the case, Tastries Bakery owner Cathy Miller would have been forced to choose between baking a wedding cake for a lesbian couple or stop making wedding cakes altogether. The Christian baker would have lost up to 40 percent of her cake business if she did the latter, Town Hall detailed.

For Judge Lampe, the case was all about the First Amendment and not about discrimination. He acknowledged that using Miller's talents to create a cake for something that goes against her religious beliefs was a violation of her free speech rights.

"The State is not petitioning the court to order defendants to sell a cake. The State asks this court to compel Miller to use her talents to design and create a cake she has not yet conceived with the knowledge that her work will be displayed in celebration of a marital union her religion forbid," said Judge Lampe in his ruling. "For this court to force such compliance would do violence to the essentials of Free Speech guaranteed under the First Amendment."

Meanwhile, the U.S. Supreme Court is set to decide on a similar case in Colorado involving Masterpiece Cakeshop owner Jack C. Phillips. The Christian baker maintained that he has the right to turn down orders from same-sex couples because of the free exercise of religion clause in the First Amendment, BBC News reported.

In the case of Miller, Judge Lampe warned that the ruling was not applicable to other situations. Explaining the decision, he said a retail tire shop could not refuse to sell its products just because the owner of the establishment does not want to accept same-sex couples as customers.

It is worth noting that the lesbian couple had ordered a cake without a message from Miller's shop. However, Judge Lampe said the wedding was an example of the couple's speech, which is covered by the First Amendment.The Resurrection has proved its power; there are Christianseven in Rome. This is how Karl Barth, renowned Swiss theologian, described the conversion of the Roman Christians in his famous work The Epistle to the Romans. What he meant was that the resurrection of Jesus Christ had proved its reality because there were, in fact, Christians in Rome, the capital of the oppressive empire whose authority had crucified Jesus, and that was indeed sufficient grounds for thanksgiving and belief.

As I reflected on the words of Barth, I couldnt help but realize that as he was describing the faith of the Roman Christians, he was also telling the story of black Christianity. The simple fact that the enslaved were able to hold on to Jesus, as it were, is in our day a story of the power of the Resurrection. Emerson Powery and Rodney Sadler Jr. shared in their book, The Genesis of Liberation, African-Americans respect for the authority of the Christian Scriptures is a miracle in itself.

You have to look no further than to the Christ they were introduced to to see the miracle. The Jesus they met in the Middle Passage and on the plantations was firmly on the side of the oppressor and opposing their freedom. This experience was not a neutral one. He clearly was used by the slavers and planters to pacify the slaves and to justify their enslavement. He clearly anointed and appointed the oppressors, not for the ministry of reconciliation but for their ministry of subjugation. He was the White Mans Jesus.

In spite of this introduction, Powery and Sadler conclude that many African Americans, though not all, became Christians and attributed authority to the Bible. The question that remains is why. Why did enslaved Africans embrace the religion of their captors, who used the Bible to justify the brutal trans-Atlantic slave trade?

Powery and Sadlers simple answer is that they fell in love with the God of Scripture.In Christ they found salvation from their sins and reconciliation. They conclude that though this was certainly enough, there was more to the answer. They write: In these texts they found not just an otherworldly God offering spiritual blessings, but a here-and-now God who cared principally for the oppressed, acting historically and eschatologically to deliver the down trodden from their abusers. They also found Jesus, a suffering Savior whose life and struggles paralleled their own struggles.

In the biblical narratives that described these characters the enslaved Africans found reasons to believe not only in the liberating power of the God of Scripture, but in the liberating emphasis of Scripture itself. Because they learned that the Bible did not denigrate African identity, they were able to use it to ground their humanity, subversively to rebut biblically based supremacist readings, to validate their right to be free and function as equals in this nation.

As they came in contact with this God, they found a different reality in him: the reality of Resurrection power. It was this reality that provided the basis for what would be deemed by historians Sylvia Frey and Betty Wood as perhaps the defining moment in African American history because it created a community of faith and  provided Afro-Atlantic people with an ideology of resistance. The Resurrection had proved its power; there are Christianseven among African Americans.

The Black Reformation of 1736

If the Protestant Reformation of 1517 is deemed the greatest religious movement in European history, then one could conclude that the Black Reformation of 1736 is the greatest religious movement in American history. But this begs the question, can it be called a reformation? Author Juan Williams argues indeed it can be. In his book on African American religious history, This Far By Faith, Williams writes, Africans did not simply adopt the religion of the European Colonist; they used the power, principles, and practices of Christianity to blaze a path to freedom and deliverance. Not only did they blaze a path but the path was so big that he concludes that it reformed Christian theology as well as Christianity itself.

Rebecca Protten, Mother of the Black Reformation

Though the process had long begun, in the 1730s, the birth of one of the earliest African Protestant churches found pivotal momentum in a seemingly unlikely place: the rugged roads through the hills of St. Thomas, a Danish sugar colony in the West Indies, known to the enslaved as The Path. Though kept from popular nightly meetings due to violent animosity, black men and women would press their way along these rugged roads to hear the gospel from an unlikely missionary: a brave young woman. She would not be just the Mother of Modern Missions but also the Mother of the Black Reformation. Her name was Rebecca Protten.

Born a slave in 1718 and kidnapped at an early age from the island of Antigua, she was converted as a young woman. Protten would eventually gain her freedom and join a group of German missionaries from the Moravian Church in 1736. Freidrich Martin, a Moravian missionary, wrote that Protten had done the work of the Savior by teaching  and speaking. Protten didnt just give her voice to the mission of God; she gave her life. Jon Sensbach notes in his book Rebeccas Revival that she would trudge daily along rugged roads through the hills in the sultry evenings after the slaves had returned from the fields.

She was more than a teacher; she was a mentor. She was a prophet, determined to take what she regarded as the Bibles liberating grace to people of African descent. She took her message near and far by carrying it directly to the people. Her travels took her to the slave quarters deep in the islands plantation heartland, where she proclaimed salvation to the domestic servants, cane boilers, weavers, and cotton pickers whose bodies and spirits were strip-mined every day by slavery.

As she and others took the gospel from plantation to plantation St. Thomas suddenly became the Americas new axis of Afro-Protestant conversion. Fueled by the message of liberating grace, they put themselves at the forefront of an indigenous black movement that was birthed in the slave quarters.

Sensbach concludes, much that we associate with the black church in subsequent centuriesthe anchor of community life, advocate for social justice, midwife to spirituals and gospel musicin some measure derives  from those early origins. This Reformation spirit found its home in two women and two men.

Freedoms Prophet: Richard Allen and The Black Reformation

If I could write but a part of my labors, it would fill a volume.

These were the words of Bishop Richard Allen in his spiritual autobiography Life, Experiences, and Gospel Labors.

Born into slavery in 1760, Richard Allen went on to become a leading American reformer, wrote many pamphlets of protest that would be the model for many generations to come. A pastor who was a contemporary of Allens called him one of the most talented people of his generation. Another dubbed him The Apostle of Freedom. Allens other contemporaries agreed. His life would be celebrated and would inspire the likes of the pioneering abolitionist Frederick Douglass, famed abolitionist David Walker, and great sociologist W. E. B. Du Bois.

At the age of 17, Allen got religion and converted to Methodism. His passion was undeniable. He would begin and end each day with prayer. Allen believed he had an important place in Gods mission. As one biographer shares, The Lord looked for young Richard Allen, a slave, and Allen professed to be the Lords undying servant. Allen joined St. Georges Methodist Church in Philadelphia and preach at the 5 a.m. special service for African Americans, attracting many new black parishioners.

Unfortunately, in 1787, racial tensions got the best of the congregation of St. Georges. One morning while attending the church, segregated seating was instituted. Allen, not one to lack courage, believed this was a sign that a separate church was necessary for black congregants. Allen and the black congregants walked out and formed what would become Bethel A.M.E. Church. This ministry would not just struggle for the advance of the gospel; it would also struggle for racial justice in America, be home for the benevolence of African American peoples and would be a church that would support missions in several countries overseas. Allen died in his home in 1831, but his legacy changed the world. If Rebecca Protten is the Mother of the Black Reformation, then surely Bishop Richard Allen is its father.

In the spirit of Mary: Jarena Lee and the Black Reformation

As we look back on black church history, much time has been devoted to the black men who utilized their lives to create indigenous movements throughout America. Less attention has been given to the crucial role that black women, specifically the itinerant female preachers of the A.M.E. and other black denominations, had in helping to shape what we know as black Christianity today. As the Resurrection power caught fire in St. Thomas through Protten, a similar figure arose in the United StatesJarena Lee.

Born in a poor but free family in 1783, Jarena Lee moved to Philadelphia as a teenager to continue her life as a domestic servant. After hearing the sermon at a worship service at Bethel Church, founded by Allen, she was so moved that she converted to Christianity. Shortly after, Lee came to believe that she was commissioned by God to preach the gospel. This did not go over well in the male-dominated nature of the church.

Paul Harvey shares in Through the Storm, Through the Night, that male leadership respected the womens spiritual power and call to exhort, but they refused to recognize their call to ministry. Yet that did not stop women from pursuing that call. Harvey shares that these women responded to profound stirrings, attracting sizable audiences through the nineteenth century. Jarena Lee is a prime example. She defended her ministry by asking: Did not Mary first preach the risen Savior? In the spirit of Mary, Lee pressed on.

As providence would have it, in 1819, a guest preacher began to struggle with his sermon and abruptly stopped preaching. As he was staring at the congregation, undoubtedly shocked by his loss of words, Lee arose and began preaching where the minister had left off.

Lee later concluded that during the exhortation, God made manifest his power in a manner sufficient to show the world that I was called to labor according to my ability. In the audience that day was Bishop Richard Allen himself. Earlier he hadnt felt comfortable allowing women to speak from the pulpit, but that day he changed his mind. Historian Eric Michael Washington concludes that Jarena Lee is not only a leading figure for African Americans during the Second Great Awakening, she is also a trailblazer for women in ministry.

The Black Reformation Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

With these powerful testimonials, one can indeed see the Resurrection had proved its power; there are Christianseven among African Americans.

These black Christians of old did not simply just adopt the religion of their oppressors; they used the power and practices of Christianity to blaze The Path of freedom and deliverance for many who would follow after. This reality didnt just inform their thinking; it informed their living. Their theology invaded every aspect of African American identity.

When Protten traveled the rough roads of the island of Antigua, her life would be the catalyst for the life of Sojourner Truth, the slave woman turned evangelist champion for the end of slavery. When Allen decided to walk out of the dark clouds of segregation and into the sunshine of racial justice, his life would be a catalyst for the young Martin Luther King Jr. who would do the same. When Lee had the courage to stand up and proclaim Gods truth despite being a woman, her life would be a catalyst for the civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, who would always say, You have to step out and trust God. They gave birth to what we know as black Christianity today.

This strong tradition gave a people hope that God would act to provide justice for enslaved Africans and all who were oppressed. It was this faith that gave African Americans the arguments against the religion of the slaveholders. It gave a people a profound sense of dignity, identity, and significance, which led the church to be the most enduring and shaping institution in the African American story.

Author Juan Williams writes that individual black people took on a cloak of faith, an unshakable belief that God would carry them through slavery and lift them up to freedom. They transformed themselves into Christian soldiers, marching for an end to segregation and for the promise of equality as Gods children  then they transformed the church. Much more, they transformed Christianity as we know it. It would do us well to not only listen to these stories of the past and be transformed by them in the present. May God make it so.

Dante Stewart is a student at Reformed Theological Seminary. He is a graduate of Clemson University, where he was a student athlete and received a BA in sociology. He and his wife, Jasamine, live in Augusta, Georgia, where he teaches Bible at Heritage Academy Augusta.My husband and I tried to conceive for a year before seeking medical help. I was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and we began preliminary fertility treatments. During that time, I was in such a pit of despair. The wait brought out the very worst in me. I balked at the mention of Gods sovereignty and refused to open my mouth to sing of his goodness. Instead I countered, It is not well. He is not good. He will let me down.

In the midst of my hopelessness and anger, the Lord was gracious with me. Over time, my affections grew for him once again as he tore down the lies I was clinging to with the truth of his Word. I chose to believe that he is good, even when it seemed he was withholding good from me. Later, God performed a miracle in my heart, and then in my womb, when I became pregnant in May 2016 after my third round of fertility treatment.

During the majority of pregnancy my body did exactly what it was created to do. After a bleeding scare at 10 weeks was resolved, I hoped for an uneventful remainder of the pregnancy. But everything came to a screeching halt one evening while cooking dinner when my water broke at 21 weeks and 2 days. Two days later, we met our son, Xavier Lawrence, who lived ten short, sweet minutes.

When Grief Threatens a Marriage

For many couples who deal with infant loss, the early stages of grief are merely about surviving. Surging emotions pull mourning parents in and out like the tide. While trying to tread the waters of postpartum recovery and infant loss, I became gripped by another fear: losing my marriage. My husband was the one person I wantedneededto be with me deep in the trenches of grief. When it started to seem like he wasnt fully there with me, fear started grasping at my throat. I felt jealous of his ability to compartmentalize the loss; he could keep his grief in a neat box while my grief was strewn all about and consumed my every thought. I was hurt, lonely, and tempted to believe the one person who knows me better than anyone else did not understand my pain.

With my background in marriage and family therapy, I know too well the history of research that supports this fear, with early statistics for divorce among bereaved parents as high as 90 percent. Subsequent studies have now debunked this high claim; needless to say, I was still terrified. While the 90 percent figure may not be accurate, the effects of infant loss can certainly have a detrimental impact on marriages and many couples do face the risk of divorce.

In light of this reality, it is no wonder my emotions were in such a downward spiral. Like a shark following the scent of blood, the Enemy pursued my thoughts and whispered lies about my motherhood, my role as a wife, and my femininity as a whole: Youre not ready to be a mother. Youve failed your husband. He could find a better wife than you, someone to give him living children. I have since learned to silence these lies with truth, but in the early days of grief, they wrecked memind and soul.

What has been especially helpful in combatting my fear of losing my marriage is recognizing the unique ways men and women may grieve and express lament. As I began to observe the ways my husband and I were processing the loss of our son, I realized I wasnt alone after all. My husband was hurting too, but he displayed it in a completely different way.

Gender and Bereavement

Men and women tend to differ significantly in their experiences of and expressions of grief. We err if we think the obvious expressions of grief like crying, talking with others about sadness, and depression are the only signals that mourning is taking place. This assumption can limit our purview of those who are bereaved, especially fathers. Oftentimes their signs of grief may take on a more internalized, physical nature. Gastrointestinal issues, chronic pain, changes in blood pressure, insomnia, changes in appetite (significant increase or decrease), addiction/relapse, and other physical symptoms may signal complications in processing grief, especially for men.

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While every person is unique and these generalizations are not true in all cases, here are three key ways men and women tend to grieve differently:

Different sense of connection with the child. In her book Empty Cradle Broken Heart, Deborah Davis points out that during pregnancy, mothers and fathers often feel quite different levels of connection to their child. Fathers tend to have a more abstract perception of the baby until after birth. Mothers, on the other hand, get to feel the baby growing inside of them and experience all the symptoms of pregnancy (such as morning sickness, uterine stretching, pregnancy cravings, and so on). This difference is made even more stark by infant loss as bereaved mothers experience both the pain of grief and the abrupt hormonal changes that come with the end of their pregnancies. It is common for women to deal with heartbreaking continued lactation postpartum as their bodies continue to produce milk for babies who wont need it. Stretch marks are daily reminders of the babies that were once housed in their wombs, postpartum bleeding seems to never end, and fluctuating hormones only exacerbate an already emotionally tumultuous time.

Bereaved fathers, on the other hand, dont experience those physical changes that take place as a result of the loss. They also typically dive back into work quicker than their partners. That does not mean they are unfazed. The ways men engage the emotions of grief are sometimes in stark contrast to their partners behaviors. Instead of continuous tearfulness, they may become fixated on completing a project in the home, delve further into obligations at work, or choose to escape through television, physical activity, or, worse, through maladaptive addictions.

Cultural expectations regarding emotional expression. A lot of what we see in male-female differences in grief is due to cultural socialization. Davis emphasizes the cultural expectations that allow women to exhibit a wide a range of emotions, while men are typically socialized to be stoic and strong. Therapist and social worker Thomas Bekkers takes this point further, stating, These conflicting gender messages can carry through ones entire life and may cause misunderstandings between males and females who are grieving. This can lead to frustration, anger, and feeling isolated in ones grief for both genders.

In her book Coping with Infertility, Miscarriage, and Neonatal Loss, psychologist Amy Wenzel points out that while women often feel a guilt of perceived failure (I failed my husband by losing this baby), men feel guilt of perceived helplessness (I couldnt do anything to help her or stop it from happening). This closely mirrors our experience. I was riddled with guilt for making my husband deal with this; I grew to hate my body for losing his son. Simultaneously, he was beating himself up for not being able to keep our baby safe in my womb. The guilt manifested differently in each of our experiences; however, with the passage of time, we both recognized the errors of our thinking and became better at identifying when the Enemy was pitting us against one another. The more we leaned into the truth of Gods Word and embraced his sovereignty in our lives, the easier it became to let go of the guilt.

Differences in seeking support. As is the case with most high-stress situations, social support is a key factor in coping with infant loss. Wenzel agrees, asserting that social support is crucial in managing your distress and may even promote growth and healing. In the first few weeks after Xaviers delivery and death, Victor and I had the support and help of our family and many local friends. Though making it to church every Sunday was difficult, members of our church body intentionally sought us out week after week, which helped us remain rooted despite our inconsistency. We were so very well taken care of in the early days. As time moved on, I was able to connect with other loss mamas who were integral in my healing; they were a source of comfort and hope. I became more involved with online groups and grief forums, even starting a blog around the anniversary of Xaviers birth. I was determined to have healthy support connections.

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My husband, on the other hand, was more of a lone ranger in dealing with his pain. I wantedand even urgedhim to find his own tribe, to reach out and find support like I had done. But once again, I was face-to-face with gender differences in how men and women tend to seek support. Bereaved mothers are more likely to connect over sharing stories, talking about our losses, sharing pictures of our babies, and telling our birth stories. Bereaved fathers, on the other hand, are often more private and less inclined to share about the loss even when solicited. As much as I want him to experience the joy of connecting with others who understand, I cannot force these relationships to develop. Ive learned to give him the grace to grieve in his own way, and, slowly but surely, he has started opening up more to the men God has placed in his life.

The Answer Is Always Yes

Last year we traveled to a quiet beach town the weekend that would have marked Xaviers first birthday. We packed a birthday lantern and candle and shared a memorable night on the balcony of our hotel, overlooking the sea. My heart was content with my husband at my side. As the candle flickered in the night, the deepest question of my broken heart crept up once more: Lord, are you really good? I heard him answer me as each wave crashed against the shore: Yes. Always. In all ways. Gentle yes after yes after yes pounded on the shoreline of my heart. Today I can close my eyes, think back to that night, smell that vanilla-sweet candle, hear the waves, and cling to that truth. As bereaved parents still awaiting the joy of getting to parent a child here on earth, it is my prayer that we shine like that candle and display to the world how the light always conquers the darkness.

People regularly say they are amazed at our strength. We are not strong. We are imperfect individuals. Since losing our son, weve hurt and recoiled from one another countless times. At our worst, we are broken, fearful, and self-centered. But as we lean in toward each other with Christ as our center, he continues to hold everything together. In our own strength, we cannot keep our marriage secure after experiencing such a tragedy. But through taking on the attitude of Christ, as we love each other well in these dark places, we can give each other the grace to remember our son in meaningful ways.

Infertility and infant loss are only two sources of grief that many of us will face in this life. Others among us may grieve the loss of a marriage, an estranged parent-child relationship, missed job opportunities, failing health, or a loved ones suffering. Many men and women mourn as they endure a long season of singleness, longing for a spouse. Though each situation is different, a common thread is that feeling of being out of controlthat life isnt working out the way we hoped or thought it would.

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Just as there is no guarantee that I will mother a living child on this earth, we are not promised a joyous marriage, obedient children, or even perfect health. But there is one promise Christ offers on which we can always rely: the promise of himself. Though we all mourn in some manner, we mourn not as those without hope (1 Thess. 4:13)and what a hope we have in Christ! It is this hope that collects each tear (Ps. 56:8), comforts each heart (Ps. 34:18), and sustains us through the deepest, darkest valleys (Ps. 23:4). We can confidently trust and put every drop of our hope in a God whose love is vaster than the oceans and who is alwaysyes, alwaysgood.

Tanisha Garnier holds a masters in marriage and family therapy from the University of Alabama. She lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband, Victor, and their spirited tortoiseshell cat, Calliope. Find her on Instagram and her blog.Declassified FBI Texts Demonstrate Bias Against Anti-Abortion Activists

Is the "deep state" biased against pro-lifers?

Contact: Mark Harrington, National Director, Created Equal, 614-419-9000, mark@createdequal.org

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 12, 2018 / Christian Newswire / -- In the midst of a swirling controversy over declassified communications between the FBI's Peter Strzok and Lisa Page involving the Russia investigation, new text messages have emerged demonstrating apparent institutional bias within the FBI against anti-abortion activists.

FBI's Strzok and Page misused a so-called "Russian Dossier" that they knew had no credibility to obtain a warrant to spy on an associate of Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign and during Trump's initial days as a sitting president.

This dossier was created by the same opposition research firm (Fusion GPS) that was hired by Planned Parenthood in 2015 to perform a "forensic analysis" on the undercover videos released by the Center for Medical Progress, which showed evidence that Planned Parenthood was involved in the illegal trafficking of aborted baby remains and other crimes. That "analysis" falsely stated that the recordings had been deceptively edited and were not reliable as evidence in court.

Not only do the FBI's Strzok and Page texts contain evidence of their attempts to influence the outcome of a presidential election, but those sent during the 2016 March for Life also demonstrate hatred for anti-abortion activists and a desire to abuse their authority to "cancel the permit" for the pro-life event in Washington, DC.

The FBI's Strzok and Page are rabid abortion advocates who discussed using their authority to stop our JumboTron screens from showing abortion victims.

To see what Strzok and Page (and Facebook) don't want you to see, click HERE: http://bit.ly/2Eis6DB

In these recently released profanity laced text messages, Strzok and Page complain about Created Equal's "offensive video screens" saying, "I truly hate these people."

This demonstrates the extent to which abortion advocates are willing to go to cover up abortion, and now the bias seems to have reached our highest levels of law enforcement.

"From the unwillingness to investigate Planned Parenthood's baby body part scandal to these new troubling revelations, there is emerging evidence of institutional corruption and bias regarding anti-abortion activists within President Obama's Department of Justice and FBI."

"We demand assurances from the Department of Justice and FBI that there is no institutional political bias toward anti-abortion activists at the highest levels of law enforcement," said Mark Harrington, President of Created Equal.

Created Equal is joining several other pro-life organizations calling for a thorough investigation of the FBI to discover any bias against anti-abortion activists.We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Go to formWe attempted to send a notification to your email address but we were unable to verify that you provided a valid email address. Please click here to update your email address if you wish to receive notifications. Otherwise, you may click here to disable notifications and hide this message.BARBERTON, Ohio -- An Akron man is accused of shooting his brother-in-law in the leg during a fight in Barberton, police said.

Paul S. Robinson, 41, is charged with felonious assault and domestic violence in the Saturday incident on Burt Street near West Summit Street, police said in a news release.

Robinson argued with his brother-in-law shortly before 4:30 p.m. The dispute escalated into the shooting, the brother-in-law told police.

Robinson left the house before officers arrived, police said.

Paramedics took the brother-in-law to a nearby hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators obtained a warrant for Robinson's arrest, and Akron police officers arrested him without incident, police said. Details of the arrest were not immediately available.

A judge set bond at $30,000 when Robinson appeared Monday in Barberton Municipal Court. His next court appearance is scheduled Wednesday, according to court records.

Robinson's criminal history includes 2006 convictions for aggravated assault and having weapons under disability. A Summit County judge sentenced him to two years in prison, court records show.

To comment on this story, visit Monday's crime and courts comments page.AKRON, Ohio - Art Bomb Brigade kicked off its first Flannel Fest, a fundraiser at the Rialto Theatre in Kenmore, in which attendees donned their finest flannel and came out to enjoy an evening of bluegrass music.

Flannel Fest featured an opening sing-along led by the Rubber City Ukes, and performances from Cave Twins and the David Mayfield Parade. Several contests were held throughout the night, including "Best freestyle beard" and "Most Bedazzled flannel."

Art Bomb Brigade is a University of Akron Myers School of Art program launched through a Knight Foundation grant and led by UA Associate Professor Elisa Gargarella. The group creates brightly colored murals on buildings, under bridges and on walls that help breathe new life into Akron neighborhoods.

Proceeds from Flannel Fest will be used to pay for scaffolding and equipment the urban art group needs.

Art Bomb murals can be viewed at Chill Gourmet Ice Cream on Maiden Lane, Downtown Akron Laundromat on South Main Street, the Akron Sustainer, an educational hub promoting green living; Echogen Power Systems at Lock 1; Metro Parks Freedom Trail trailhead and the Barberton Public Library.

Want more Akron news? Sign up for cleveland.com's Rubber City Daily, an email newsletter delivered at 5:30 a.m. Monday through Friday.HUDSON, Ohio -- The big white brick house on Lost Woods Lane resembles a property you're more likely to find in the Hamptons than suburban Summit County. The only thing missing is the ocean breeze.

Built in 1987 on five acres of land, the home boasts five bedrooms and five bathrooms (three full) in more than 5,100 square feet. The asking price was recently lowered to $929,900.

Realtor Colette Gallagher at RE/MAX Crossroads Properties describes the home as "pure elegance" while listing off the attributes of the home's interior.

"Four fireplaces, dual staircases, abundant custom woodwork including beamed ceilings, wood-paneled walls, extensive moldings and hardwood floors," she says.

The updated country kitchen looks like something straight out of an episode of "Fixer Upper" with its white cabinets, rustic island, high-end appliances, fireplace (one of four in the house) and wood-beamed ceiling. Other highlights include a bright sunroom overlooking the pool, stately wood-paneled library, and master suite with a luxurious spa bathroom.

The outdoor space is equally stunning with a pool, hot tub and pool house with fireplace. "It is like having a five-star resort in your own backyard," Gallagher says.

Address: 6435 Lost Woods Lane

City: Hudson

Price: $929,900

Size: 5,772 square feet

Year built: 1987

No. bedrooms: 5

No. bathrooms: 3 full, 2 half

Lot size: 5.07 acres

School district: Hudson City School District

Other notable attributes: attached three-car garage, finished basement, HOA fee

Real estate agent and contact info: Colette Gallagher, RE/MAX Crossroads Properties

p: 440-463-9490

w: www.remax.comBROOK PARK, Ohio -- After more than a month of debate between Brook Park City Council and new Mayor Mike Gammella, the city's administrative posts are nearly filled.

At their Feb. 6 regular meeting, council members unanimously approved Randall Garner to fill the service director position. He served as Brook Park deputy service director from 1999-2014. Since that time, he has been a survey technician for Euthenics Inc. in Strongsville.

At the council caucus just prior to the regular meeting, Gammella pulled his candidate for safety director, Brian Blayney, and that position remains open.

"I will be coming forward with a new plan on this," Gammella said.

Council members expressed satisfaction with Garner as service director.

"I think it's a great fit," said Councilman Rick Salvatore. "I know him, and I think he'll do an outstanding job. I really do like the idea of promoting from within."

"I think there were some very good choices coming out of the service department, and I also agree that Mr. Garner is a very good choice," added Councilman Jimmy Mencini.

The mayor's economic development commissioner appointment does not require council approval, and he announced that Scott Adams began in that position Feb. 5.

Past council president Jim Astorino, whom Mike Vecchio defeated in the November election, had been acting as economic development commissioner since the beginning of January, but he left the position after three weeks. Gammella previously sought to have Adams fill the safety director role.

Adams served as Brook Park City Council president from 2001 to 2005 and was a councilman-at-large from 1989 to 1993 and 1997 to 2001. He graduated from Midpark High School in 1978 and has associate degrees from Cuyahoga Community College and Columbia Southern University. Adams expects to graduate from Columbia Southern in May with a bachelor's degree in business administration.Update 4:30 p.m.: Mario was located Sunday afternoon outside Pittsburgh, Cleveland Heights police said in an update on the department's Facebook page.

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio - Cleveland Heights police are looking for a 16-year-old boy who has been missing since Saturday night.

Mario Loboda was last seen about 10 p.m. Saturday, police said in a Facebook post. Authorities say he was wearing a camouflage jacket with black sleeves and black Timberland boots.

Mario is 5-foot 3-inches tall and weighs about 120 pounds, police said. He has brown eyes and black hair.

Police say that Mario is required to take daily medication, and he may not have it with him; because of this, there is "concern for his well-being."

Anyone who has information on Mario's whereabouts should contact Cleveland Heights police at 216-321-1234.

If you'd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Federal prosecutors say a Warrenville Heights man bought a pistol and gave it to the man who used it Saturday to gun down two suburban Columbus police officers inside a town home.

Gerald Lawson III, 30, was arrested by federal authorities on Monday and charged with acting as a straw purchaser for Quentin Smith. Smith, 30, is accused of killing Westerville police officers Eric Joering and Anthony Morelli, who were responding to a domestic disturbance call.

Smith, who used to live in Euclid and has a felony conviction for burglary, is not allowed to own a gun. Lawson knew this as the two men were friends, yet he still bought the gun for Smith, according to an affidavit filed in federal court in Columbus by an agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

A witness told investigators that Smith gave Lawson money to buy the Glock pistol, and an extra $100 for compensation. Records show Lawson bought the gun in May at a Stonewall Ltd. Gun Shop and Pistol Range in Broadview Heights, the affidavit states.

Lawson faces a charge with aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison.

He is being held in federal custody.

After the confrontation with officers, Smith was taken to a hospital and remains there, according to the affidavit. He is charged with two preliminary counts of aggravated murder.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich on Monday ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Joering and Morelli.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

If you would like to comment on this story, please visit Monday's crime and courts comments section.KENT, Ohio - Oscar-nominated actor Michael Keaton, who attended Kent State University in 1971, will return to campus May 12 to deliver the university-wide commencement address.

"Michael Keaton developed big dreams and a passion for bringing his characters to life that was sparked in part by his time at Kent State," Kent State President Beverly Warren said in a news release. "This is a rare opportunity for our students to hear from someone who has walked in their shoes and now has risen to the top of his field."

Born about 100 miles from Kent in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, Keaton enrolled to major in journalism and speech. His attention and passion shifted to acting, and he went to Pittsburgh before heading to Hollywood.

He quickly found success, landing comedic appearances on such 1970s television staples as "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," "Maude" and "The Mary Tyler Moore Hour."

Keaton returned to the Kent campus in 1985 to speak at an event in the Kent Student Center.

"I am looking forward to coming back and taking part in Kent State's Commencement ceremony," Keaton said in the news release. "It's truly an honor for me, and I hope by taking part I can inspire others to pursue their dreams."

Contract details are still being finalized, spokesman Eric Mansfield said. In 2017, the university paid actress Octavia Spencer $100,000 to speak for up to 20 minutes at the first all-university commencement, according to her contract.

The university sought a high-profile speaker to highlight the first time it gathered graduates from the eight-campus system in one place.

All Kent State graduating students and their families are invited to hear Keaton speak at Dix Stadium regardless of whether the student is receiving an associate, bachelor's, master's or a doctoral degree from any of the university's campuses.

The all-university event in Dix Stadium in 2017 did not draw a large crowd and was held in addition to the college ceremonies at the regional and Kent campuses.

This year, no college ceremonies will be held on the Kent campus. Graduating students will cross the stage at Dix Stadium and each will be recognized by name.

Keaton may be best known for his roles as the Caped Crusader in "Batman" and "Batman Returns." As the star of "Birdman: Or (The Unexpected Virtue of Innocence)," he was nominated for an Academy Award and won the Golden Globe.

He is one of the few actors whose films, "Birdman" and "Spotlight," won the Oscar for Best Picture in back-to-back years. Keaton also earned the Best Actor Award from the National Society of Film Critics for "Clean and Sober" and for Tim Burton's "Beetlejuice."

He recently appeared as Vulture in "Spiderman: Homecoming."

All guests must have a ticket to enter the ceremony. Graduating students can secure up to six tickets. More information about Kent State's Commencement will soon be posted on the commencement website.CLEVELAND, Ohio - Case Western Reserve University will paint over a mural depicting female engineers this summer because some students objected to how it represented women.

The 34-foot mural, appearing on a classroom buildiing, was completed a year ago by Cleveland artist Rachel Latina. The piece aimed to combat stereotypes in math and science by representing the female faces of the fields, the university said at the time.

"As an artist, I feel an obligation to be a voice that speaks out against these biased point of views," Latina told the university. "I am very proud and honored to be the artist to paint this mural celebrating women in science."

Latina does not want to comment on the removal of the mural. "I respect the wishes of the university and its students," she wrote in an email Monday. "I wish to move on and continue with my work."

Daniel Lacks, chairman of CWRU's Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, contacted Latina in fall 2016. Latina creates pop-art-inspired portraits of women made with acrylic paint and watercolors. He asked her to paint a wall near the main entrance of the A.W. Smith Building.

They devised a plan for a comic-book panel layout to feature portraits of women interspersed with chemical engineering material, according to a cleveland.com article. One woman has a hair clip in the form of the symbol for heat exchange used in chemical-process diagrams. Another wears a pendant in the form of a pump symbol. Engineers may even spot the Navier-Stokes equation, which is the focus of the Transport Phenomena course in the department.

"As we all know, women have historically been underrepresented in engineering, and there have many been disparaging arguments about this," Lacks said at the time.

A few months ago concerns were raised about the mural, the university said in a statement Feb. 8 in response to questions from cleveland.com about the mural.

While the mural drew praise, "some have objected to the representation of women and discussed their issues with staff at the university's Flora Stone Mather Center for Women," the university said in the statement. "After learning about these concerns at the close of 2017, the department chair explored potential options to address them. Ultimately, he embraced the concept of a rotating series of murals for that space -- a new one roughly every two years -- with selections overseen by a student committee and including the Mather Center's director. One of the purposes of art is to inspire a response, and part of the mission of a university is to encourage the free exchange of ideas and perspectives. The project and the discussions that have followed illustrate the power of each."

A CWRU spokesman said the mural would be removed after the end of the academic year and would not comment on whether Latina had been contacted to create another mural.

The spokesman did also not respond to questions regarding what specific concerns were raised about the mural and who objected.

The mural was one of the ways the department had tried to inspire more women to pursue engineering, the university said in the February 2017 article on the mural.

"The message that [Professor] Daniel Lacks and I worked together to achieve was that the everyday woman could be a chemical engineer," Latina told the university. "I felt [the mural] would also inspire young women who perhaps felt intimidated by the notion of the field being male-dominated. I hope it gives encouragement to all the students, both male and female."CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A 2-year-old child escaped with a minor wound in a drive-by shooting Sunday night on the West Side, police say.

The child had a "small abrasion" to the buttocks because of the shots fire, police spokeswoman Lt. Jennifer Ciaccia said.

A male suspect has been taken into custody.

The shooting occurred at about 9 p.m. outside the home on the 6800 block of Guthrie Avenue, which is just north of Lorain Avenue and west of West 65th Street in the Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood.

The child was inside the home when the shooting occurred, Ciaccia said.

Police remain on the scene investigating the incident.

If you'd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.CLEVELAND, Ohio -- For the past five years, Cuyahoga County taxpayers have paid to try to make Montez Cobb a better person -- after his first arrest at age 12 for stealing a snowblower, after subsequent arrests for fighting and violating probation, and ultimately for his prosecution as an adult for a string of armed robberies.

The 17-year-old boy's odyssey -- and those of other juveniles mired in the system -- has caused officials to rethink how they deal with these young offenders. Recently, prosecutors and juvenile court officials have turned their attention to Montgomery County, which for two decades has taken a different approach to juvenile justice than here.

The results are dramatically better.

Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O'Malley has pointed to Cobb's case while calling for a different approach to juvenile crime in this county. Offering services such as individual and family counseling, mediation, mental health treatment and substance abuse treatment to offenders in the days and weeks after an arrest - rather than when the case is resolved months later - could address issues at home and at school and keep juveniles from re-offending and escalating to more serious crimes, O'Malley said.

"We see what's going on in the streets. Nobody can possibly feel good," O'Malley said during a recent meeting with cleveland.com editors and reporters. "We have to do something different."

A Jan. 8 riot at the Juvenile Detention Center - coupled with a rise in violent crimes involving juveniles - has reignited calls for reform from O'Malley and city council members. The Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court's administrative judge said she would be open to a process to allow dangerous inmates to be held in a separate wing at the adult Cuyahoga County Jail. But that would require a change in state law, and advocates argue it would run counter to the juvenile court's core mission of rehabilitating young offenders.

O'Malley pointed to the Montgomery County Juvenile Court's Intervention Center as a possible inspiration for criminal justice reform in Cuyahoga County. The Intervention Center assesses young offenders in the hours after an arrest to determine if there are any underlying issues -- such mental health or behavioral issues, or problems at home or at school -- that could be addressed through specialized services.

The Intervention Center has significantly impacted Dayton and its suburbs since it opened two decades ago. The juvenile court is seeing fewer cases and admissions to its detention center, and young offenders are benefiting from services instead of being locked up, assistant court administrator Eric Shafer said.

"I think our attitude, from our judges on down, is that we need to try to assist these families. These are kids, and we have a much better chance at helping them when they're young," Shafer said. "Let's do everything we can to help them have access to justice."

In Cuyahoga County, there are few specialized services available to juveniles immediately after an arrest. Select cases - such as domestic violence arrests - are eligible for programs like emergency foster care, said Bridget Gibbons, the director of programming, training and quality assurance for the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court's probation department.

But it could be months before a case is adjudicated and a pre-sentencing report determines if the juvenile has any underlying issues those specialized services could address. O'Malley likened it to parenting - if a child is not punished immediately after doing something wrong, the rehabilitative aspect of that punishment is lessened.

"If you punch your brother and you're disciplined four months later, it doesn't have the same impact as being disciplined five minutes later," O'Malley said.

Helping juveniles at a critical moment

There are often underlying issues that need addressed when a juvenile is taken to the Intervention Center, Montgomery County Juvenile Court administrator Jim Cole said. Research has indicated that approximately 90 percent of young offenders were exposed to a traumatic event sometime before the arrest, according to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network.

"So many of these families are in immediate crisis," Cole said. "If you deal with it immediately, it tends to smooth things out down the road."

The Intervention Center is open 24 hours per day and 365 days per year, so juveniles are always getting the help they need right away.

"There's no waiting until the next day, or next week," Intervention Center intake manager Dorian Davis said. "It streamlines that process tremendously."

That access to rehabilitative services is key for kids and teenagers, said Erin Davies, the executive director of the nonprofit Juvenile Justice Coalition, which advocates for better treatment of young offenders. Taking a young person out of a home and placing them in a detention center exposes them to more trauma and can have a negative impact on development, she said.

Juveniles subjected to detainment are more likely to re-offend, less likely to graduate high school and less likely to find employment than those confined at home or given an alternative to detention, according to research from the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Juvenile Detentions Alternative Initiative.

Keeping teens out of a detention center and getting them the help they need is much more effective in dissuading them from committing crimes in the future, Davies said.

"Any time you're getting to the root cause for why a young person is committing an offense, the better off you're likely to be," she said.

Teens arrested in Cuyahoga County could see the same benefit if officials establish a similar intervention center. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Gregory Mussman said the majority of juvenile cases he sees involve teens with mental health, substance abuse, domestic, or behavioral issues that could be addressed through specialized services.

"It's easy to just say 'arrest him and throw him in jail," Mussman said. "It's so easy, and it accomplishes nothing. They just come out and commit more crimes."

How do you assess a juvenile's needs?

Montgomery County's Intervention Center solicited input from judges, prosecutors, public defenders, the department of children's services and other agencies to develop a scoring system to determine a youth's needs and the safety risk he or she poses to the community.

The assessments help Intervention Center staff members determine if the case should move through juvenile court or if it can be resolved "unofficially" through diversion, individual or family counseling, mediation, mental health treatment, drug and alcohol treatment or other services.

The most serious offenses, like violent crimes involving guns, result in automatic referrals to juvenile court and likely admission to the detention center. Lower-level offenses, like misdemeanor crimes, typically result in releases to parents or guardians.

Staff members ask questions to assess a juvenile's social history and determine if they are having trouble at home or at school. They also complete a risk assessment to determine if the juvenile is a risk to himself or herself, or the community.

Caring for Kids, a program funded by Montgomery County's Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board, also conducts drug and alcohol and behavioral health screenings at the Intervention Center.

The entire process is completed in roughly four hours. The information gleaned from the assessments helps a magistrate decide if the child should go to the detention center or referred to some alternative.

"We're looking at these youths and determining whether they are a public safety risk, or a flight risk," Cole said. "If not, we're going to release them or find an alternative, like electronic home monitoring or emergency foster care."

The Intervention Center is effective because staff members take a straightforward approach when speaking with families, Director Tiffany Dulin said. Families are more likely to buy into services if staff members clearly articulate the steps that can be taken to help a child.

"For us, changing the mindset helps a lot," Dulin said. "When [families] understand the assessment and understand what the true goal is, it's better reached."

Statistics show impact of Intervention Center

The Intervention Center is a key reason the Montgomery County Juvenile Court has seen fewer cases in recent years. Last year, the juvenile court handled 21 percent fewer delinquency cases and 10 percent fewer unruly cases than it did in 2009, statistics show.

Montgomery County has also seen a 54 percent drop in admissions to its detention center since 2009. It costs $238 per day to keep a juvenile in the facility, so officials estimated $2.7 million in savings last year compared to 2009.

"We're not perfect," Cole said. "But for the most part, everything is trending downwards."

The Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court has also seen declines in cases in recent years. In 2016, the most recent year statistics were available, the court handled 33 percent fewer delinquency cases and 14 percent fewer unruly cases than it did in 2009.

But Cuyahoga County has not seen as large a decline in admissions to its detention center. In 2016, there were only 13 percent fewer admissions to the facility than in 2009.

Montgomery's County's Intervention Center is increasingly reliant on alternatives to its detention center, such as electronic home monitoring, emergency foster care, group homes and issuing summons to appear in court. In 2009, just 19 percent of juveniles referred to the Intervention Center were released to alternatives. Last year, 56 percent of juveniles were released to alternatives.

Cuyahoga County's stats have remained largely uncharged. In 2016, 59 percent of juveniles in the detention services population were in the detention center instead of an alternative like home monitoring or daily reporting. The number was 56 percent in 2009.

Montgomery County officials feel detention alternatives allow them to accomplish the goal of rehabilitating offenders without endangering the community.

"We realize there is a balance. We find ways to hold [juveniles] accountable, because they must be held accountable to learn," Shafer said. "That doesn't necessarily mean they have to sit in detention for 45 days. We find ways to do that by coming up with these alternatives."

Bringing change to Cuyahoga County

Cuyahoga County officials have been discussing a similar assessment center for years, and the framework of a model is currently being finalized, Gibbons, O'Malley and Mussman said.

Judges, court administrators, prosecutors, public defenders, probation officers and outside agencies all see value in an assessment center, and they can look to other jurisdictions to develop a model for Cuyahoga County, Gibbons said.

"We service these kids anyway [during probation] with our court-funded programs. If we move these services up, you're striking when the iron is hot," she said. "Our goal is to save on the back end if we can treat them faster up front."

Significant details still need to be worked out. It's unclear where the assessment center would be located and precisely how it would operate. Funding would also be needed to hire employees and partner with a mental health services agency that could provide screenings, Gibbons said.

O'Malley said recent high-profile crimes involving juveniles have created a sense of urgency to address the issue. But it will take collaboration between the juvenile court, prosecutors, Cuyahoga County commissioners and other officials to establish an assessment center.

"I'm very hopeful that, [if we work] cooperatively with the judges, people are willing to change," O'Malley said. "But the key is it has to be a priority."CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The man charged with killing two police officers during a domestic disturbance in suburban Columbus has a history of violent domestic encounters in Cuyahoga County, records show.

Quentin Lamar Smith pleaded guilty in 2008 to barging into his neighbor's home, where his then-wife went following an argument, and held a gun to her head, according to court records.

That incident came nine months after a judge dismissed felony charges that accused Smith of stabbing his mother's boyfriend and stealing her truck, according to court records.

The crimes came years before Smith would be accused of killing Westerville police officers Eric Joering, 39, and Anthony Morelli, 54.

The pair was shot Saturday as they responded to a 911 call for a domestic violence incident at a townhouse in the Columbus suburb of Westerville. Joering died at the scene and Morelli, a Massillon native, died at a Columbus-area hospital.

Smith, who police say was wounded in the incident, is currently jailed.

Gerald A. Lawson III, 30, of Warrensville Heights was charged Monday with buying the .40-caliber pistol that investigators say Smith used to carry out the shootings.

Gov. John Kasich on Monday ordered the state's flags to fly at half-staff, and President Donald Trump offered condolences to the families of both officers on Twitter.

Case dismissed



Smith was arrested in August of 2007 on felonious assault charge after his mother saw him pull out a gun and then stab her boyfriend in the hand, records say.

The boyfriend told police that Smith and his mother got into an argument and she kicked her son out of the house. But she told her boyfriend not to let Smith take their truck, he said.

A confrontation ensued and Smith lifted up his shirt to show he had a pistol tucked into his waistband, the boyfriend told police. The boyfriend said he told Smith that he "wasn't afraid of no toy gun," and then Smith pulled it out, cocked it and pointed it at the boyfriend, records say. The boyfriend grabbed the gun and the two struggled, and then Smith poked the boyfriend in the side and jumped in the truck the report says.

The boyfriend followed and reached through the truck's open window for the keys, records say. Smith stabbed the boyfriend's hand, then jumped out and started swinging the knife, records say.

Smith eventually got in the truck and left, and police later found a broken BB gun on the ground near the scene.

Grand jurors that October handed up a four-count indictment charging Smith with felonious assault, aggravated menacing and theft of a motor vehicle.

Prosecutors in January 2008 asked to delay the start of the trial and asked then-Common Pleas Court Judge Ronald Suster to issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the witness, according to court documents.

Suster agreed to delay the trial but refused to sign off on the witness's arrest.

Two weeks later, prosecutors again asked to delay the trial when the witness again did not show up. This time Suster denied the request, and the case was dismissed.

'Chill'

Euclid police arrested Smith about nine months later, in October 2008, on aggravated burglary, felonious assault and aggravated assault charges.

Smith accused his then-wife of cheating on him, and she told police that he told her that he "should have killed her two days ago," court records say.

The argument died down and Smith hopped in the shower, and she packed a bag and hid in the neighbor's house, according to court records.

Smith found out where she went and tried to talk to her, but he forced his way into the house with a pistol when she refused, records say.

One of the neighbors told police that he grabbed Smith's arm and told him to "chill," reports say. The man let go when Smith pulled a gun.

Smith tracked down his wife inside the house, grabbed her, put the gun to her head and started to drag her out of the house, the man said. The police arrived before the couple made it outside.

Smith denied that he threatened anyone with a gun, and told police that he and his wife were going through financial problems, records say.

Prosecutors struck a plea bargain with Smith, who pleaded guilty to one count of burglary with a one-year firearm specification and one misdemeanor count of domestic violence. He was sentenced to three years in prison, and was released in 2011.

To comment on this story, please visit Monday's crime and courts comments page.MENTOR, Ohio - Mentor Public Schools, once the largest system in Lake County, will downsize its inventory of buildings in time for the 2018-19 school year.

Mentor's current enrollment is 7,564 - little more than half of its peak enrollment of around 12,000 in the 1990s -- and 700 fewer than the nearby Willoughby-Eastlake Schools.

Mentor High School had the largest enrollment in Ohio for several years in the 1990s.

(See graphic with statistics below.)

According to the plan, Ridge Middle School will become an elementary school, leaving the district with two middle schools, said Interim Mentor Superintendent William Porter. Garfield and Brentwood elementary schools are scheduled to close.

Rice elementary school closed in 2015, with Headlands, Reynolds and Center Street elementary all closed in the decade before 2015. Headlands has been renamed the Jacqueline A. Hoynes School and has re-opened as a special facility for people with autism. The school board decided last month to make the latest changes.

Porter noted that Mentor's declining enrollment has started to level off.

Porter also said that one benefit of the changes is that he district has cut positions and spending as it downsizes.

"Typically, when cuts are made, we cut positions, not people," he said.

At the end of last summer, interested parties, including faculty, staff, parents and representatives of the community began meeting on a strategic plan that included some form of downsizing, Porter said.

Through all of the changes, the student-teacher ratio has not changed.

Boundaries have been redrawn for the remaining schools and open houses will occur in the spring to familiarize students and parents with the facilities that will serve them.

Ron Traub, Mentor's director of community and economic development, said Mentor has an aging population and people are not selling their homes when the kids grow up and move out.

"There's not a lot of churn," he said.

The city's population is also down from a peak of just over 50,000 to the current 47,000.

The seven communities that make up the Willoughby-Eastlake school system have a combined population of more than 66,000

Steve Thompson, the Willoughby-Eastlake school superintendent, said he is not certain when Mentor fell behind his school system, "but I have been here seven years and that has been the case during that period."

Thompson's district has done some downsizing in the past, but he said there has been steady growth in enrollment in the past five years.COLUMBUS, Ohio -- A "critical flaw" in Ohio's process for grading medical marijuana grow applications could have allowed a state employee to change scores or manipulate other documents, the state auditor's office found.

Two Ohio Department of Commerce employees had unlimited access to the online accounts of more than 20 application reviewers and associated documents, according to Auditor Dave Yost's office. The employees also created and managed passwords for the application reviewers, who were only granted access to certain parts of the application.

In a Feb. 6 letter to Commerce Director Jacqueline Williams, Yost wrote that the weakness could have allowed an employee to log in as a reviewer and change scores. The "weakness," as Yost refers to it, means auditors can't tell whether a record was revised by an application reviewer or someone else logging in as the reviewer.

"Because of this critical flaw in the procedure's design, neither this office, nor the public, can rely upon the cultivator application results," Yost wrote in the letter, which was obtained by cleveland.com through a public records request.

Williams disputed that sentence but did not address the password weakness in a reply letter dated Friday that the department provided in response to questions from cleveland.com.

"My fear is that this statement could be misinterpreted to imply there is evidence of improper conduct in the awarding of Level I cultivator provisional licenses," Williams wrote. "I therefore respectfully request that you take the statement out of your interim communication."

The department has implemented changes to securely administer usernames and passwords, a spokeswoman said late Monday afternoon.

"While the auditor's office hasn't completed its review, we are continuing to separately perform a full internal review of all our processes to ensure accuracy, efficiency and security," spokeswoman Stephanie Gostomski said in an email.

Yost declined Monday to discuss the finding further.

The commerce department announced in November that provisional cultivator licenses would be issued to 24 companies statewide -- 12 large-scale growers and 12-small scale growers.

Yost's office began reviewing the application review process after reports that the department didn't know one scoring consultant had a felony marijuana conviction on his record and that two other consultants had possible conflicts of interest with a license winner.

The department has fiercely defended the scoring process, which shielded applicants' identities and limited scorers' access to only one part of the application. Department officials pledged in December to hire a third-party investigator to handle allegations of errors or wrongdoing. Gostomski told cleveland.com in January the department decided not to hire the investigator because of Yost's audit.

Sixty-nine unsuccessful applicants have appealed their score.

Yost wrote that he wanted to inform the department of the flaw so it can address it now, as it reviews applications to test medical marijuana and make marijuana products. He recommended the department follow state IT office policy preventing personnel from accessing others' accounts without authorization.

Mobile readers, click here to read Yost's letter.LIMA, Ohio -- A woman pleaded guilty Friday to several charges after she was accused of allowing her daughters to be sexually assaulted in exchange for drug money, reports say.

According to the Lima News, the 39-year-old woman agreed to a plea deal on several charges, including complicity to attempted rape, compelling prostitution, child pornography and trafficking. She now faces up to 129 years in prison.

As part of the plea deal, several other counts were dismissed.

The girls were only 12 and 15 years old during the assaults, which occurred over a yearlong period in 2014, the Associated Press reports.

The AP reports the man who assaulted the girls is serving 30 years in prison on attempted rape and gross sexual imposition charges.

The man reportedly told the 15-year-old he would continue to assault her 12-year-old sister unless she submitted to him.

If you'd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.comcrime and courts comments section.WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump's budgetary wish list for 2019 includes gutting programs that benefit the Great Lakes, altering and cutting the food stamp program, and eliminating numerous grant programs that have channeled federal money to Northeast Ohio.

Trump's budget would cut more than $48 billion from dozens of discretionary programs, but would add several billion dollars to fight opioid abuse. It repeats many suggested reductions from last year that were rejected by Congress, which has the final word on federal spending.

For example, the new budget proposal suggests cutting the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative cleanup program to $30 million from its current $298 million level. Trump sought a similar cut last year, but Congress continued funding at the higher level.

.@POTUS budget again takes aim and slashes the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative by 90%, which is unacceptable. Well fight these harmful cuts that will take us backward on restoring the Lakes.



The President should not turn his back on our #GreatLakes! https://t.co/5OPzNEQznf pic.twitter.com/GBGGhegVMl  Marcy Kaptur (@RepMarcyKaptur) February 12, 2018

"Today feels like Groundhog Day as it relates to the Great Lakes funding," said a statement that Bainbridge Township Republican Rep. Dave Joyce released Monday. "No matter the administration - Republican or Democrat - it seems none of them understand how important fresh water and the Great Lakes are to many Americans. Once again, we will gear up in a bipartisan manner, to save the Great Lakes funding."

Niles area Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan, who serves with Joyce on the House of Representatives committee that allots federal money, called Trump's budget proposal "a non-starter."

"The only function the President's budget proposal serves is to remind us how completely out of whack his priorities are for the American people," said a statement from Ryan.

Trump's budget document also suggests eliminating a program that funds conservation efforts at 49 National Heritage Areas around the country, including the Ohio and Erie Canalway. Last year, Trump wanted to cut it from $19 million to $809,000 - but Congress upheld its previous funding level.

The budget proposes elimination of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which assists low-income households with their heating and cooling energy costs. The program got more than $3 billion last year. Language in the budget says "the program is no longer a necessity as States have adopted their own policies to protect constituents against energy concerns."

It would eliminate that Department of Transportation's TIGER grant program, which has awarded more than $5 billion in transportation money over the years, including grants that aided construction of Cleveland Metroparks bicycle and pedestrian trails in central Cleveland, and helped the city of Akron complete its downtown promenade.

Trump's budget also proposes chopping the Justice Department's COPS Hiring program, which has provided millions of dollars over the years to help Northeast Ohio police departments hire more officers. It suggests eliminating $96 million from the program and reallocating the money to "higher priority Federal law enforcement programs that lead efforts to address gangs, violent crime, and the opioid epidemic in communities across the Nation."

There was at least one substantially brighter spot in the budget for Northeast Ohio, however, with the proposal for NASA's Glenn Research Center. The center would see its biggest budget hike in seven years.Glenn's budget would grow from a current $650 million to $712 million in 2019, then drop to $640 million in 2020.

It also includes around $20 million to perform "major repairs & alterations" on the Carl B. Stokes courthouse in Cleveland, and $7.4 million build a new automated machine gun range to expand training opportunities at the Ohio National Guard's Camp Ravenna Joint Military Training Center.

"As our men and women in uniform confront the harsh realities we face in the world and take the steps they need to confront them, it is important they have the training, equipment, and facilities they need," said a statement from Ohio Republican Sen. Rob Portman. "I am pleased this funding has been included in the president's budget to help our National Guards units training at Camp Ravenna."

Fighting opioid abuse: The Trump budget proposal suggests spending an extra $5 billion to fight opioid abuse over the next five years, in addition to the $3 billion this year and $3 billion next year that Congress approved last week. The budget specifies that money would be spent on preventing abuse, law enforcement, providing treatment for addicts and preventing overuse of opioids as prescribed painkillers.

Changing food stamps: Trump wants what his budget calls "a bold new approach to nutrition assistance that combines traditional Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits with 100-percent American grown foods provided directly to households."

His budget documents say this is how it would work: Households receiving $90 or more per month in SNAP benefits would get a portion of their benefits in the form of a Department of Agriculture package, with items such as milk, cereals, pasta, peanut butter, beans and canned fruit, vegetables, and meat, poultry or fish. The remainder of their benefit would go on their electronic SNAP debit cards for use at grocers.

It was not immediately clear how the food packages would be distributed, or by whom.

Trump also wants to continue efforts to move people from SNAP to work so they can rely on their own paychecks for food, his administration says.

Altogether, cuts and reforms would alter the program in ways "designed to improve nutrition and target benefits to those who need them while ensuring careful stewardship of taxpayers' money," the budget says. That includes proposals to eliminate the minimum food stamp benefit for people who otherwise might qualify for less, and capping the maximum benefit at current levels for families of six or more rather than having it rise through a cost-of-living formula.

Total saving: $17 billion next year, and $213.5 billion worth of SNAP cuts over a decade.

Housing and Urban Development: Trump wants to cut HUD spending by $8.8 billion, an 18.3 percent cut from the 2017 level. This includes a decrease of 11.2 percent for rental assistance, or federal housing aid that helps families pay rent in either privately owned rental units or apartment complexes owned by public housing agencies like the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority. The budget calls for reforms to "place these programs on a more fiscally sound path while encouraging work and self-sufficiency for tenants."

This includes requiring able-bodied tenants to pay a greater share of their rent. They now generally pay 30 percent of their adjusted income toward rent. The administration would build on HUD Secretary Ben Carson's plans to offer more training and education to help public housing tenants become more self-sufficient.

The president's budget includes no funding of the Public Housing Capital Fund, which helps local and regional agencies pay for repairs and upgrades of their housing developments. This "should be a responsibility more fully shared with state and local governments," the budget documents say.

Trump also wants to eliminate the Community Development Block Grant program, which cities such as Cleveland use for neighborhood improvements. "The Federal Government has spent over $150 billion on CDBG since its inception in 1974, but evaluations have been unable to demonstrate program results," a budget document says. Furthermore, state and local governments are better able to respond to local community issues, his budget rationale says.

Trump is just the latest president to propose CDBG cuts or reforms. Congress consistently says otherwise and has the final say.

Infrastructure: Trump wants to spend $200 billion over the next 10 years to stimulate what the White House says will be $1.5 trillion in spending for highways, bridges, waterway improvements, sewers and broadband. Most of the money for the infrastructure plan, however, would come from state, local and private sources.

The $200 billion would not have a single dedicated source but, rather, come from savings from other parts of the budget. Trump Monday morning signaled on Twitter that at least part of it could come from cuts to foreign aid. He and some congressional Republicans have said before that the United States should back off some of the aid it provides to the Middle East.

The Trump plan would also streamline the federal permitting process, which now can take up to a decade for major projects and could be cut to two years, the White House said. Environmental groups say they worry this would lead to overlooking concerns about environmental degradation during and after construction.

Ohio relies heavily on federal aid for highway construction. And a major source of federal money for that comes from the gasoline tax that goes into the Highway Trust Fund. The 18.4 cents-a-gallon tax has not been raised since 1993, and Trump's budget doesn't ask for a hike this year, either. But White House officials said they are not ruling out other approaches, and the $200 billion offer in Monday's budget is a starting point for negotiations with Congress.

State and local governments would likely resist efforts to limit federal funding. The most common funding breakdown for Ohio Department of Transportation costruction projects is 80 percent federal, 20 percent state and local funds, the department said. For example, a resurfacing project on U.S. 6 in Geauga County had a total cost of $930,000. Of that, $744,000 came from Washington and $186,000 from the state, said ODOT spokesman Matt Bruning.

ODOT's 2017 budget was $3.15 billion. About $1.3 billion of that came from federal highway revenue.

Grace Gallucci, executive director of the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency, a transportation and environmental planning body, said infrastructure investments are long overdue. She commended Trump for beginning "a serious dialogue." But she said a shift in funding and a reliance on public-private partnerships might not work everywhere, especially where maintenance or rehabilitation of existing roads and bridges is needed.

"In order to modernize our infrastructure and bring all of our assets into a state of good repair, we need stronger support from our federal government," Gallucci said. "We are hopeful that this plan will start to address some of our most pressing needs, but remain cautious that it will fix our crumbling roads, bridges and transit infrastructure."WASHINGTON - As Washington awaited President Donald Trump's new budget today, the anticipation carried a heavy dose of realism: Don't get too excited.

That's because presidential budgets are wish lists and guidance documents but aren't binding. Remember Trump's first budget last year, the one that would have killed new funding for the much-vaunted, ongoing Great Lakes cleanup?

Congress ignored the request and agreed to keep spending $300 million a year. And just in the last week, Congress passed its own budget guidance for next year, so whatever Trump wants will have to be reconciled against what Congress already declared.

Trump's proposal will be much more detailed, however. Those details will emerge after the official White House documents are released at 11:30 a.m., but the White House put out some information in advance. Trump wants to spend $200 billion over the next 10 years to stimulate what the White House says will be $1.5 trillion in spending for highways, bridges, waterway improvements, sewers and broadband. Most of the money for the infrastructure plan would come from state, local and private sources, a senior White House official said.

The $200 billion would not have a single dedicated source but, rather, come from savings from other parts of the budget. Trump this morning signaled on Twitter that at least part of it could come from cuts to foreign aid. He and some congressional Republicans have said before that the United States should back off some of the the aid it provides to other countries.

This will be a big week for Infrastructure. After so stupidly spending $7 trillion in the Middle East, it is now time to start investing in OUR Country!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 12, 2018

The Trump plan would also streamline the federal permitting process, which now can take up to a decade for major projects and could be cut to two years, the White House said. Environmental groups say they worry this would lead to overlooking concerns about environmental degradation during and after construction.

Ohio transportation officials have not yet responded to the infrastructure proposal. They rely heavily on federal aid for highway construction. And a major source of federal money for that comes from the gasoline tax that goes into the Highway Trust Fund. The 18.4 cents-a-gallon tax has not been raised since 1993, and Trump's budget doesn't ask for a hike this year, either.

But White House officials said they are not ruling out other approaches, and the $200 billion offer in today's budget is a starting point for negotiations with Congress. Major transportation groups and the U.S Chamber of Commerce have called for a gas-tax hike.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich suggested recently that other approaches could help pay for road improvements, and he cited Ohio's use of toll revenue from the Ohio Turnpike.

Most federal highways have an 80 percent federal match. But White House officials said that when all roads are taken into account rather than just federal highways, the federal match is only 28 percent, and most water projects only get 4 percent of their money from Washington. Accounting for all infrastructure, the federal match now averages 14 percent, the White House said.

Sen. Rob Portman, an Ohio Republican, called the president's infrastructure proposal "a good starting point for discussion," and said he is "hopeful both parties will work together on this issue. By rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure and improving job training programs targeted toward in-demand infrastructure-related jobs, we have a great opportunity to further strengthen our economy."

Other things cleveland.com will be watching for in the budget:

Great Lakes-related programs: The budget will spell out funding requests the president wants for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Th Corps keeps the Cleveland Harbor and tributaries navigable by removing sediment from the mouth of the Cuyahoga River.

Housing and urban development: This part of the budget has money for neighborhood improvements, streetscaping and public housing. The Cleveland area uses these programs more heavily than do newer cities because of the age of housing and the relatively high poverty rate. HUD budgets are often slated for cuts that are pared back by Congress, though not always entirely.

Food stamps and related social safety net programs: Republicans have wanted to cut the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, or its eligibility requirements for years. Congress has signaled it intends to keep at it this year, and Trump could show his support for cuts in his budget.MIAMI, Florida -- A Catholic school has fired a popular teacher after she returned from her same-sex marriage, saying she violated a contract she signed agreeing to obey church rules.

Carlota E. Morales, the principal at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School, sent a letter home to parents saying the firing of first-grade teacher Jocelyn Morffi was a "difficult and necessary decision," ABC 10 reports.

The Miami Herald reports upset parents went to the school on Friday to confront the principal over the firing.

"We were extremely livid. They treated her like a criminal, they didn't even let her get her things out of her classroom," Cintia Cini, parent of one of the children in Morffi's class, tells the Herald.

Cini and other parents told reporters they were not concerned about Morffi's sexual orientation.

"Our only concern was the way she was with our children, the way she taught our children and this woman by far was one of the best teachers out there," Cini said.

The Associated Press reports Florida does not have a statewide law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. A Miami-Dade County ordinance that protects LGBT residents from discrimination exempts religious institutions from certain provisions.

While a spokeswoman for the Archdiocese of Miami confirmed Morffi had been fired, she would not offer specifics, saying only that Morffi had violated her contract with the school, the Herald reports.

"As a teacher in a Catholic school their responsibility is partly for the spiritual growth of the children," Agosta tells the Herald. "One has to understand that in any corporation, institution or organization there are policies and procedures and teachings and traditions that are adhered to. If something along the way does not continue to stay within that contract, then we have no other choice."

ABC 10 reports Morffi might not have been fired if she had not posted pictures of her wedding on social media.

"This weekend, I married the love of my life and, unfortunately, I was terminated from my job as a result," Morffi said in a Facebook post on Friday. "In their eyes, I'm not the right kind of Catholic for my choice of partner."

Morffi had worked for the school for nearly seven years.

"You know, to be a Catholic, you're taught to be forgiving," Cini tells ABC 10. "But if you're gay, forget about it. But love is love."Today, the California Local Redistricting Project  a joint project of the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Laws Capital Center for Law & Policy and California Common Cause  announced the release of a new tool to enable local governments to fight redistricting abuse at the local level. The Projects ordinance generator, hosted at www.localredistricting.org/generator, enables any user to easily draft a sample ordinance for establishing a local, independent redistricting commission, which is considered a vital redistricting best practice by good government watchdogs.

Californias local governments are leading the way on redistricting reform, said Nicolas Heidorn, Director of the Project. We view this tool as a big step forward towards providing local officials and advocates with the educational resources and tools they need to consider and implement reform in their communities.

The generator seeks to make redistricting reform more accessible, and more customizable, to local officials and advocates. Instead of providing locals with a single template for reform, the generator presents locals with choices for reform, and helps guide them through those decision points. After answering a series of redistricting prompts, the generator produces a sample ordinance customized entirely to the users preferences. Sample questions include whether the commission is being created for a city or a county, how many members serve on the commission, what qualifications are required of commissioners, and whether or not the commission has the power to adopt new election district boundaries independent of the city council or board of supervisors.

This is an exciting, game-changing model for promoting local reform, said Professor Leslie Gielow Jacobs, Director of McGeorges Capital Center. This is worlds away from the traditional, one-size-fits-all packaged approach to reform. The ordinance generator gives local advocates a smarter tool to craft a reform that is tailored to the needs of their communities. This is a pioneering approach to encouraging context-dependent model legislation that we hope gets imitated in other contexts.

California has been a leader in state and also local redistricting reform. In 2008, Californians passed Proposition 11, establishing the state Citizens Redistricting Commission to redraw state legislative and congressional election district boundaries. While newspaper articles across the nation decry the extreme partisan gerrymanders which have distorted the democratic process in other states, California has been held up as the gold standard for fair and effective redistricting reform. Since the passage of Proposition 11, redistricting reform has also taken hold at the local level as well in California. Thirteen local governments in California now use independent redistricting commissions to redraw their city council and board of supervisors district lines, including the cities of Chula Vista, Oakland, San Francisco, and Modesto, and the Counties of Los Angeles and San Diego.

When incumbents, at any level of government, draw their own election districts, it is human nature to give themselves an electoral advantage, said Kathay Feng, Executive Director of California Common Cause, and one of the authors of Proposition 11. At the local level, we have seen redistricting used to expel political challengers and excise communities of color who, incumbents fear, may not vote for them. Independent, commission-based redistricting is vital to giving all Californians a voice in our democracy.

The California Local Redistricting Project (www.localredistricting.org) is the most comprehensive educational resource on local redistricting in the nation. The Project was made possible through a grant from the James Irvine Foundation.Few people go through life without at some point having to face that soul-crushing question "Why am I still single?" The answers range from the painfully obvious -- that "MAKE ME A SANDWICH" T-shirt isn't endearing you to anyone, dude -- to the utterly and cosmically inexplicable. Yes, sometimes it's not you! And according to science, it's sometimes surprising stuff, like ...

5 According To Facebook, You're 6 Percent More Likely To Be In A Relationship If You Share Dog Photos Instead Of Cat Photos

Look, not that we're a bunch of crazy cat ladies over here (we totally are), but cats are amazing. They're ruthless killers, they know how to use a litter box right out of the womb, you never have to take them for walks (unless you're one of those people), and they freaking evolved to talk to us. And once they've gotten all that talking, not-walking, ruthless killing out of their systems for the day, they are excellent cuddlers. What's not to like?

A lot, if you're in the habit of showing them off on social media and don't want to die alone. (Except for all the cats, naturally.)

For some reason, people seem to like dogs better overall, and it goes beyond pet preference. It seems that if a potential significant other likes flaunting their cats online and has no dogs in sight, you're 6 percent more likely to turn your nose up and move on. The folks at Facebook performed a study (read: they creeped on the profiles of 160,000 people), and determined that 30 percent of people who shared cat photos were single, compared to only 24 percent of dog-photo-sharing people. So maybe you have cat memes to blame for not getting any action between 2009 and 2013.

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Perhaps not coincidentally, the Facebook researchers/creeps also found that if you're a cat person, you're more likely to be into nerdy stuff like sci-fi and that weird phenomena known as "staying in and reading a book." Dog folks, like their furry companions, are more likely to be outgoing and be full of something called "energy." They're also more likely to be into rom-coms and, extremely weirdly, share the same love of Marley & Me.

Facebook You'd think cat people would be more into the movie where the poor dog (spoilers) has to put up with Owen Wilson.

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But don't despair, cat folk. While your love life might be statistically more lacking, your friendships, while probably fewer in number, appear to be more fulfilling and meaningful than those of the dog lovers out there. So, you know, suck it.A few days ago, Mark and I put up a post on the possibilities of using Chapter 15 bankruptcy for Venezuela's state-owned company, PDVSA. In response, we received a number of terrific comments, both via email and in the comments section.

One of the particularly interesting points that was made to us (both in email and in one of the comments), that we had not raised was the following:

PDVSA is not just a Venezuelan company; it is the Venezuelan company -- the company responsible for generating 95% of the foreign currency earnings of the entire country. Placing the fate of PDVSA into the hands of a bankruptcy judge poses an existential risk to the economy and to the government as the sole owner of the company unless, of course, the government can control the outcome of the insolvency proceeding. But insolvency proceedings in which the equity owner of the bankrupt enterprise can control the outcome are not proceedings likely to be recognized or enforced by foreign courts.

Catch Veinte Dos?

The foregoing also brings up a slightly different question that Bob Rasmussen asked when he was visiting us last week, which was whether the bankruptcy proceeding could be conducted in a manner such that the 100% equity holder (who would normally have to turn over control to the debt holders in an insolvency) could retain all or almost all of the equity. After all, it does seem clear that Venezuela is not going to accept giving up full control of PDVSA. Bob did have some very interesting thoughts as to how this might be done in a purely domestic context. The question that remained though was whether something similar could be engineered for the foreign state-owned company context that wasn't going to give up any control of the process. But more on this laterOne year after murders with no justice, Delphi teen victim's grandparents exclusively tell DailyMailTV they want pictures of the suspected killer in 'every town' to hasten an arrest. Best friends Liberty German and Abigail Williams were murdered while walking along a hiking trail in Indiana. Anyone with information is asked to call the Delphi homicide tip line: 844 459-5786.

Donald Trump, Jr's wife Vanessa was rushed to a New York City hospital today after opening a letter containing a mysterious white powder. DailyMailTV has this breaking story.

And, Donald and Melania Trump were seen this weekend for the first time since last week's assault scandal rocked the White House.

In a stunning exclusive interview with DailyMailTV, David Koresh's half-brother breaks his silence for the first time and talks about the cult leader he referred to as his 'cool' older brother. It's been 25 years since the siege on Koresh's compound in Waco, Texas.

Serena Williams brought her biggest fan to her match over the weekend when her adorable young daughter was spotted in the stands.

DailyMailTV host Jesse Palmer got a surprise on today's show when LaPalme Magazine Creative Director Derek Warburton stopped by to show him his cover photo on the March edition of the magazine!A shocking undercover investigation has revealed market stall holders selling real animal fur wrongly advertised as faux.

BBC's Inside Out went undercover in 17 market stalls and shops across London and found traces of fur in coats, hats and gloves they were told were '100 per cent fake'.

But when analysed, many of the products turned out to be furs from various animals slaughtered in overseas factories, from mink to fox, rabbit and raccoon dog  and one pom pom hat even contained traces of cat.

Investigators featured in the show started at Camden Market, visited by some 28 million people every year.

A BBC investigation has revealed London traders selling real animal fur wrongly advertised as faux, with saleswoman Tracy Wheeler (pictured) horrified to discover she had been selling real fur

Shop owner shop owner Tracy, based in Shepherd's Bush Market, insisted she would never knowingly sell real fur - before discovering there were traces of cat in some of her items

BBC's Inside Out went undercover in 17 market stalls and shops across London and found traces of fur in coats, hats and gloves they were told were '100 per cent fake' (pictured here: Tracy reveals her love for cats to Alex Bushill)

An undercover 'shopper' with a hidden camera quizzed a stallholder about a 30 coat with a fur trim and was told it was 'definitely' artificial - with the label claiming it was made entirely from polyester.

However, after investigators sent the coat for testing with Dr Phil Greaves, chief scientist at Microtex, it was found to contain raccoon dog.

The microfibre expert explained: 'Its animal fibre as its got this structural feature which only animal fibres have.

'Its a got an external margin of scales, an internal medullary structure, pigment within the fibres, it consists of two coats and the fibres are tapered towards the tips.'

Customers were also asked whether they thought the products they were buying were real or faux fur (pictured here: the undercover shopper examining fur items at a London market)

Dr Phil Greaves, chief scientist at Microtex, analysed various products advertised as faux fur and discovered traces of mink, fox, rabbit and raccoon dog  one hat contained traces of cat

After investigators sent this coat for testing with Dr Phil Greaves, chief scientist at Microtex, it was found to contain raccoon dog

An undercover 'shopper' with a hidden camera quizzed a stallholder about a 30 coat with a fur trim and was told it was 'definitely' artificial

Investigators' next port of call is west London's Shepherd's Bush Market, where one trader selling trendy pom pom hats insisted: 'I wouldnt sell [the hat] if it was real because I love animals.

'The thought of an animal being killed just to put a bobble on you.'

But after extensive testing, the bobble hat was found to be made from mink - with traces of cat.

When confronted over the findings, shop owner Tracy Wheeler - a self-described 'staunch animal lover' - replied: 'I honestly didnt realise it had real fur in it at all.

As revealed by presenter Alex Bushill (pictured), shop owner Tracy Wheeler - a self-described 'staunch animal lover' - replied: 'I honestly didnt realise it had real fur in it at all

Truth behind the fur: An estimated 110,000,000 animals are killed on fur farms every year. The government ordered the last UK fur farm to close its doors in 2002, but fur from a coyote, a fox or a raccoon dog, can still legally be imported to the UK

What is the law on labelling fur?  There is no legal requirement to use the specific word 'fur' on items containing real fur.  EU regulations do require items defined as 'textile products' to carry the confusing wording 'contains non-textile parts of animal origin' but campaigners say this wording requirement is confusing and rarely adhered to.  Products sold online are exempt even from the above confusing wording requirement, and footwear or non-garment accessories such as handbags and key chains are also excluded.  Under consumer protection legislation, it's technically illegal to mislead customers. However, campaigners say the regulation  with respect to the sale of animal fur  is very poorly enforced, and an honest mistake is considered a legitimate defence which means that retailers are rarely prosecuted. Advertisement

'I bought it from my supplier that I had been doing business with for years. And I had it in the shop and wasnt aware that it contained real fur or anything.'

Some traders refused to comment when challenged over the findings, while others like Tracy said they had wrongly assumed their products were man-made and insisted they had never intended to mislead their customers.

Commenting on the misconception that real fur is pricier than faux, Claire Bass of The Humane Society International (HSI) said: 'I think a lot of people think that fur is expensive and would look at a 10 bobble hat and not think for a second that it could be real fur.

Inside Out went undercover in 17 market stalls and shops across London and found traces of fur in coats, hats and gloves they were told were '100 per cent fake' (including this shop owner, pictured)

'We just encourage people to really be careful not to sleep walk into buying real fur. And supporting such an abhorrent industry.'

She added: 'On the internet, in the UK, in markets like this were finding a very large volume of real fur being mislabelled, mis-sold as fake fur.

'Consumers really need to be vigilant and avoid this. Its an appalling act to mislead a would be ethical consumer into buying a product from an industry which causes such enormous suffering to millions and millions of animals, animals kept in tiny wire cages, fed on waste, denied veterinary care, all for a frivolous pom pom or a trim on a coat.'

Inside Out London airs on Monday, BBC One at 7.30pmPrince Harry and Meghan Markle will parade through Windsor in a carriage after making their wedding vows in front of the Archbishop of Canterbury, it can be revealed today.

The couple, who will marry on May 19, will make a two-mile journey through the town cheered on by crowds from around the world.

The route will see them pass along six streets before ending up back at Windsor Castle, according to details released today by Kensington Palace.

The marriage service, in the castle's 15th century St George's Chapel, will be conducted by the Dean of Windsor, the Right Rev David Conner.

The couple will then make their wedding vows in front of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.

Harry, 33, will be the first senior royal in modern times to be granted a Church of England wedding despite marrying a divorced woman.

Although Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall received a blessing at St George's Chapel in 2005, the couple had a civil service at Windsor Guildhall instead of a religious ceremony.

Kensington Palace has released further details of Harry and Meghan's big day on 19 May at Windsor Castle

The service will last an hour, beginning at 12pm and finishing by 1pm, Kensington Palace confirmed.

Members of the public will then be able to get a glimpse of the newlyweds as they undertake a carriage procession from Windsor Castle and back.

It will see them travel down Castle Hill, along the High Street and then along Sheet Street, Kings Road and Albert Road, before returning to the castle along the Long Walk.

On their return, Harry and his bride will join guests from the ceremony at a reception at St. George's Hall and in the evening, Prince Charles will host a party for the couple and their close friends and family as he did for William and Kate following their 2011 nuptials.

Harry and his American actress fiancee, 36, are likely to have drawn inspiration from Prince Edward and the Countess of Wessex, who married at St George's Chapel in 1999.

Their procession in a landau lasted around 15 minutes, with the town's streets packed with 30,000 well-wishers. A spokesman for Kensington Palace said Harry and Meghan's 'short journey' would 'provide an opportunity for more people to come together around Windsor and to enjoy the atmosphere of this special day'.

Royal sources told the Daily Mail that there will be, in effect, four parts to the day, with festivities ending with a reception complete with a whisky bar.

After the ceremony there will be a reception at St George's Hall for the couple and congregation, understood to be a lunch for close family, friends and perhaps some charity representatives  believed to be 240 to 300 in all  where speeches will be made.

A short gap between afternoon and evening festivities is expected to follow.

The evening is being broken into two parts: An 'informal' dinner for around 350, where more speeches will be heard, followed by what is likely to be a boozy reception with a whisky bar for 550-600 in the evening, a royal source has said.

The dinner will be for the couple's wider circle of friends  including, potentially, many of Meghan's fellow cast members from US legal drama Suits  as well as those who could not attend the official ceremony earlier during the day.

Another source confirmed that Kensington Palace has raised the issue of former US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle, who are counted as personal friends of the prince, being invited. But their presence has not yet been confirmed.

Behind the scenes conversations have continued with diplomats about whether this could be seen as a snub to President Donald Trump, who will not be invited.

It is understood that only Miss Markle's closest family will attend  meaning that her half brother and sister, Thomas and Samantha Markle, who have repeatedly criticised her, are unlikely to be among the guests.

A spokesperson for Kensington Palace said: 'Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle are hugely grateful for the many good wishes they have received since announcing their engagement.

'They are very much looking forward to the day and to being able to share their celebrations with the public.'

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby who will marry Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on Saturday May 19

THE CELEBRANT

It's no surprise that the Archbishop of Canterbury will marry the couple after he gave his seal of approval for divorcee Meghan to marry in church.

I am so happy that Prince Harry and Ms Markle have chosen to make their vows before God,' he said in a statement in November.

'I wish them many years of love, happiness and fulfilment and ask that God blesses them throughout their married life together.'

A month later, appearing on Radio 4's Today programe he said their 'profound sense of commitment' and love was a 'model' for the rest of the nation.

The Archbishop of Canterbury added their marriage would be 'fun' and expressed delight that the couple had opted to show their 'faith' by tying the knot in church.

'I am very, very sure after conversations that this is no tick-box exercise, 'we ought to get married in a church',' he said.

CARRIAGE PROCESSION

The carriage procession is designed to provide 'an opportunity for more people to come together around Windsor', and is something of a royal tradition.

William and Kate made their journey by carriage procession to Buckingham Palace following their marriage at Westminster Abbey in April 2011, and did Princess Diana on her big day at St Paul's Cathedral.

However, the procession is still a feature of more low key Windsor weddings.

William and Kate chose the 1902 State Landau for their carriage procession in 2011

Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex and Peter Phillips and Autumn Kelly, who married at St George's Chapel, undertook processions so that they were able to greet royal fans following their wedding ceremonies.

For sentimental reasons, Harry may wish to use the State Landau, the carriage which was built for the Coronation of King Edward VII in 1902.

Both his mother and William and Kate used this carriage on their wedding days, as well as Prince Andrew Sarah Ferguson.

It's most often seen during state visits ferrying the Queen and the visiting head of state to Buckingham or Windsor Castle.

Alternatively, the couple may decide to travel in the less imposing Ascot Landau, a smaller and lighter carriage with basket-work sides, which was the choice of Peter Phillips and Prince Edward and their brides for their Windsor weddings.

Carriage Restorer Dave Evans with the 1902 State Landau carriage, which was built for the Coronation of King Edward VII in 1902, and is housed at the Royal Mews in central London.

Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones held a carriage procession after their wedding and opted for the Ascot Landau style of carriage

THE RECEPTION VENUE

St George's Hall at Windsor Castle is often used for glittering state banquets.

Previous guests have included former French president Nicolas Sarkozy and Irish President Michael D Higgins.

The spectacular hall, which measures 180ft long, can seat 160 people at dinner.

Laying the 175ft table - which dates back to 1846 - can take staff two days, with a 4,000-piece 'grand service' traditionally used.

A total of 1,200 glasses and 2,000 pieces of silver-gilt cutlery are laid out for state banquets.

view of St George's Hall, at Windsor Castle, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will hold a reception after their wedding

The spectacular hall, which measures 180ft long, can seat 160 people for dinner

The walls and ceilings of St George's Hall are covered with the crests of knights of the garter, with blank crests representing members of the order who have disgraced themselves.

The hall, which was remodelled in the 1820s by Jeffry Wyatville, had to be restored after it was damaged by a fire at the castle in 1992.

St George's Hall is next to St George's Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan's wedding ceremony will take place.

Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, held their wedding reception at St George's Hall in 1999.

In 2005, the Queen hosted a reception for Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall at the State Apartments at Windsor Castle, rather than St George's Hall.

In 2008, Peter Phillips and Autumn Phillips held their wedding reception at the nearby Frogmore House, after tying the knot at St George's Chapel.

EVENING PARTY

Proud father Prince Charles will host an evening party of his son and his new wife and their 'close family and friends'.

He did the same for Prince William and Kate in 2011, inviting 300 guests to Buckingham Palace for a party.

After their their wedding ceremony at Westminster Abbey attended by 1,900 guests, 650 guests were invited back to Buckingham Palace for a lunch hosted by the Queen.

The venue hasn't yet been announced, but it's rumoured the couple will hold the party at Frogmore House in the grounds of Windsor Great Park, and 600 people will be invited to cater for the couple's wide circle of friends.

It also provides an opportunity to cater for guests it might be problematic invite to the day's celebrations.

Last week it was reported that Harry is determine for his aunt Sarah Ferguson to attend the big day, despite stiff opposition from Prince Charles and The Duke of Edinburgh.

Inviting her to the evening party could be a solution to the thorny issue.

Proud father Prince Charles will host an evening party of his son and his new wife and their 'close family and friendsPlanning a holiday can be a strenuous and time-consuming process.

While the internet is full of discount travel and flight sites that promise more bang for your buck, some still prefer to engage a travel professional to help them book their dream trip.

But which is better?

Australian consumer watchdog CHOICE has compared travel agents to DIY holiday bookings to see which option saved the most money and uncovered the best deals.

To do this CHOICE set up three hypothetical trips to one of the most popular holiday destinations for Australians  Bali.

Australian consumer watchdog CHOICE has compared travel agents to DIY holiday bookings to see which option saved the most money and uncovered the best deals

They searched for holidays for a couple wanting a luxury escape, a solo traveller seeking adventure and parents with young children needing some time out.

The first holiday, which included seven nights' accommodation at Ayana Resort Bali in a deluxe ocean view room, including buffet breakfast, flights and airport transfers, came in at $6034 with a travel agent.

While it was more time efficient to go through an agent, it was only $5527 to book it yourself.

The second holiday was a nine-day Intrepid Beautiful Bali tour with activities, accommodation and flights. Once again it was cheaper booking the trip yourself - CHOICE saved $285.88 on this holiday.

Booking holidays DIY worked out cheaper in each of CHOICE's three scenarios

The final holiday, which was for a family of four, included nine nights at Westin Resort Bali including buffet breakfast, flights and transfers. Overall it cost $126 more to book through the travel agent.

Although transfers booked directly through the hotel were cheaper, the Jetstar flights were slightly more expensive when CHOICE booked them.

'Booking holidays DIY worked out cheaper in each of our three scenarios, but it's hard to say whether DIY will always be the way to go,' CHOICE said.

'If you're happy to do the research yourself, you can always take the prices you've found online to a travel agent and ask them to match or beat them.

CHOICE found that the travel agents catered to their specific requests, responded quickly, and were attentive, friendly and personable

'So choosing between a travel agent or DIY may just come down to your appetite for research and need for control.'

However, CHOICE acknowledged that booking through a travel agent could potentially save hours of research and often came with good recommendations.

'We found there were so many accommodation options in Bali it was hard to know where to begin,' the consumer watchdog explained.

Booking your own holiday gives you the flexibility to browse lots of options

'Each travel agent catered to our specific requests, they responded quickly, and were attentive, friendly and personable. The agents also asked specific questions, which helped with decision-making.

'On the other hand, researching and booking your own holiday gives you the flexibility to browse lots of options at your own leisure.'

CHOICE said one of the main perks of booking a holiday yourself is that you don't have to deal with two sets of terms and conditions (the travel agent's plus the airline or hotel's policy).

'Booking websites often have customer reviews on hotels and packages instead of having to rely on an agent's opinion.

'However, if you use an agent you can always check customer reviews online for the options your agent has put forward.'To the uninformed observer, it was a compassionate message of warmth and support for an old friend at a dreadful time of loss.

The post from actress Sarah Jessica Parker on social media read: 'Dearest Kim, my love and condolences to you and yours and Godspeed to your beloved brother. Xx'

She was responding to the announcement by Kim Cattrall, her former Sex And The City co-star, that Kim's brother, Chris, 55, had been found dead on his farm in Canada.

What it unleashed in return has shocked much of Hollywood and millions of Sex And The City fans worldwide.

Kim responded with a furious attack that seemed, if not irrational, then certainly out of proportion.

Sex And The City star Kim Cattrall (pictured left) hit out at her ex-co star Sarah Jessica Parker (right) after she sent her condolences for the death of her brother on his farm in Canada

Writing on Instagram, she said: 'My Mom asked me today 'When will that @sarahjessicaparker, that hypocrite, leave you alone?'

'Your continuous reaching out is a painful reminder of how cruel you really were then and now.

'Let me make this VERY clear (if I haven't already). You are not my family.

'You are not my friend. So I'm writing to tell you one last time to stop exploiting our tragedy in order to restore your 'nice girl' persona.'

She linked her post to a 2017 newspaper story headlined: 'Inside the mean-girls culture that destroyed Sex And The City.'

The language was such that one has to wonder if, even allowing for her obvious grief, Kim, 61, had rather taken leave of her senses.

Clearly she felt blind fury that Sarah Jessica, 52  known to all as SJP  was, in her view, yet again fostering her public image as a 'nice girl' offering support to her 'friend Kim'  and that muscling in on the Cattrall family's grief was a step too far.

No one who has followed the relationship between the women was under the illusion it was very good  they are both known to have diva-ish tendencies and have been feuding on and off for years.

But until this weekend the depth of hostility involved, on Cattrall's part at least, was unknown. It would seem the huge resentment she appears to feel towards SJP  over her status on the show, her salary and her influence  boiled over in that one, vitriolic rant.

So is SJP entirely innocent or does Kim have grounds for her anger?

Certainly there were times when the 'mean girls' atmosphere on Sex And The City reached such a pitch that neither Queen Bee SJP nor the other two stars, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis, would speak to Kim.

Not a word  beyond what the scripts demanded  despite 15-hour days filming together, for months on end.

The three women would eat lunch apart from Kim, too, according to sources on set.

What it unleashed in return has shocked much of Hollywood and millions of Sex And The City (pictured) fans worldwide. Kim responded with a furious attack that seemed, if not irrational, then certainly out of proportion

When they were shooting out of town, they would stay in different hotels. There was no girly exchange of gossip while they were all having their make-up done.

The reasons were many; over the years arguments raged over everything from status and money to the amount of nudity in love scenes.

SJP got to keep her bra on, which rankled with Kim who, as sexually voracious Samantha Jones, was required to bare all at every opportunity.

But essentially, it all boiled down to which actress was the bigger star.

SJP, nominally the star of the show as sex columnist Carrie Bradshaw  and incidentally best friends with series producer Michael Patrick King  fought hard against Cattrall's natural scene-stealing charisma.

SJP got pay rises, promotion to executive editor and ever more say over the series, which ran between 1998-2004. Kim, however, did not  despite her furious protests.

Evidently matters became so unpleasant that Kim decided she was done with Sex And The City, and despite two successful spin-off films, she turned her back on a third.

That prompted some semi-public sniping in October last year after Kim appeared on a British chat show  but that was all. Which is what makes Kim's outbursts this weekend all the more jaw-dropping.

'It has always been a contentious relationship  they were the two alpha dogs on set and it was uncomfortable from day one,' says a source close to the show.

'As time went on, SJP definitely looked down on Kim for her sexpot image and her third divorce.'

Initially, SJP was the bigger star, having made her name in the hit movie Footloose in 1984 aged 18.

She was fiercely ambitious, having grown up poor in Nelsonville, Ohio, and had such a high opinion of her film career that she needed some persuading to sign up for Sex And The City in 1998.

Cattrall, by contrast  who was born in Liverpool but whose family emigrated to Canada when she was a baby  was a jobbing actress with appearances in Quincy, Star Trek, glossy drama Scruples and teen film Porky's being her highlights.

Sex And The City, based on the book by Candace Bushnell, was a huge, era-defining success for the cable network HBO.

Within a few seasons, the four stars of the show were among the biggest names in television. And no one's name was bigger than SJP's.

She and Cynthia Nixon (Miranda) had known each other for years, and she quickly became fast friends with Kristin Davis (Charlotte), too.

Kim's only ally was Darren Starr, who had created the show and produced it. But after the second season he was replaced by Michael Patrick King, a close friend of SJP's.

By 2002, SJP had negotiated an 'executive producer' credit to reflect her importance and was reputedly being paid nearly three times as much as her co-stars  $1 million per episode compared with $350,000.

This caused mutterings because the great example at the time was Friends, which ran from 1994 to 2004 and was also globally successful.

All the Friends principals were paid exactly the same throughout its run  going from $75,000 an episode in series three to $1 million an episode by series ten.

Kim Cattrall, whose third marriage to audio engineer Mark Levinson was falling apart due to the strains of filming, thought Sex And The City should follow Friends' lead.

Former HBO CEO Chris Albrecht explained: 'Sarah was becoming more and more famous, and her salary increased beyond what was contractually committed, which is normal for hit shows. The other actresses wanted to keep up.'

But there was more to it than just the money.

A source says: 'From the point when SJP had her executive producer credit, she took ownership of the show and this always grated on Kim.

'Kim wanted an executive producer credit from series three but was never given one. She felt SJP got more screen time than she did, which was only fair because Sarah Jessica was the lead, but it caused tension.

'Then she had to watch while SJP was given a say on the lines her character said, plot lines and so on.

'And SJP never had to show nudity, whereas Kim had to be naked the whole time.'

The source adds that the clash of the egos made life on set awkward. 'SJP and the other girls . . . called each other and socialised and Kim was always the one left out.'

Then in 2002, a showbiz magazine claimed Kim had let slip that Cynthia Nixon had suffered a miscarriage and was planning another pregancy.

Nixon was said to be stunned by the 'betrayal' and the repercussions rumbled on for a long time.

A crew member reportedly said: 'Sarah, Kristin and Cynthia have frozen Kim out. They won't sit with her for meals, there's no going out after the show for a nightcap. It's so bad she basically sits in her dressing room alone  sometimes crying.'

It was around this time, while on location in Atlantic City, that SJP reportedly rented a house for herself, Kristin and Cynthia, leaving Kim on her own.

When this came to light, the series' maker HBO had to to play down talk of divisions  after all this was a show that was heavily sold as a joyous exploration of the sustaining power of female friendships.

According to a spokesman, Kim stayed in a different house 'because she was married and her husband was supposed to come down'.

It is telling, however, that when the TV series ended in 2004, SJP reportedly broke down in tears while filming the last episode but Kim was rather more brusque.

'If I miss them, I can just put on a DVD, like everyone else,' she said.

She later told chat show host Jonathan Ross that she had felt 'after six years it was time for all of us to participate in the financial windfall of Sex And The City.

When they didn't seem keen on that, I thought it was time to move on.'

Ironically, the chance to cash in came as soon as the last episode had been transmitted  as fans clamoured for a film.

Released in 2008  the highest grossing romantic comedy of the year, taking $400 million worldwide  the movie had been preceded by a long delay due to salary negotiations: more specifically to Kim Cattrall saying 'No'.

Later, she said she was going through a divorce and caring for her sick father, and simply felt too exhausted to contemplate a return.

Whatever the truth, the result of the negotiations was that SJP was paid more than 10 million, Kim Cattrall around 5 million and Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis around 2 million each.

Great efforts were made all round to foster solidarity, and in December 2009 Cattrall turned up to support SJP on the red carpet premiere of her film Did You Hear About The Morgans?

SJP told Elle magazine that she 'adored' Kim Cattrall, and said: 'I wouldn't have done the movie without her.'

Sadly, it seems that this may have been the high water mark in their association, because the making of Sex And The City 2 broke the peace between them once and for all.

SJP admitted filming had led to conflicts. 'You're on set, you're working 90-hour weeks, you're never home, you're exhausted,' she said. 'Sometimes feelings get hurt. But I don't have any regrets about how I've treated people.'

One flashpoint this time around was the confidentiality agreement the film company made everyone sign.

Under its terms, anyone proved to be the leak of the story about the movie was liable to pay up to $2.5 million in damages.

Kim Cattrall nearly came a cropper after she was photographed holding a script with some of the dialogue visible.

Bosses issued a warning telling her to be more careful. 'I thought: 'You have got to be kidding!' she said later.

'This isn't state secrets, it's the f***ing script for a movie!' Warring egos also made themselves felt on the second film. Even Chris Noth, who played Carrie's enduring love Mr Big, joined in. He felt the biggest ego on set belonged to Cattrall.

'All actresses have someone working for them called a 'vanity person', he said. 'Their job is to make sure you look good at all times during filming.

'Most actors only have one person doing this job. But on Sex And The City, all of the stars had two.

Except Kim, who had three.' During the making of the film on location in Morocco, Cattrall stayed at the Royal Mansour hotel, while the other three were living at La Mamounia.

There was no let up in tension after the film was released to widespread criticism.

The script was deemed to be too heavy on puns and SJP's fondness for this type of joke was blamed.

Outwardly there were denials, of course, that relations had descended again into the deep freeze.

Indeed, Cattrall told this newspaper in 2010: 'I think Sarah is fantastic. She is a born leader and she guides the crew and cast in such a strong but gentle way.'

But clearly, she was sick of deferring to the 'born leader', whatever the financial rewards, because negotiations to bring Cattrall back into the fold for a third movie came to naught.

A script was written in 2013 and negotiations opened in 2016. But last year it was reported that Cattrall had 'killed' the film with 'outrageous demands', refusing to be in it unless Warner Bros agreed to produce other films which she had in development.

This she denied, saying: 'The only demand I ever made was that I didn't want to do a third film . . . and that was back in 2016.' SJP confirmed rather more diplomatically: 'It's over. We're not doing it. I'm disappointed.'

The implication was that she was not to blame. However, Cattrall was having none of it.

In a TV interview with Piers Morgan, she explained: 'The common ground we had was the series and the series is over. For me it's over; it's over with no regrets. I just wish that Sarah had been nicer.'

And that, of course, is the theme she returned to this weekend in her furious social media post.

There are few in Hollywood who would bet on a rapprochment any time soon.Ask many little girls who have grown up with YouTube and Instagram what they want to be when they're older and often they'll say famous on social media.

And while that might sound strange to some, it's no secret that so-called 'influencers' can command huge sums of money, just for uploading a single photo online.

FEMAIL spoke with the co-creator of the new industry game-changer, The Influencer, Monika Berry, to find out how women are becoming full-time influencers earning up to AUD $17,000 per post - and how you could - in theory - too.

Many will be familiar with the fact that influencers such as fitness star, Steph Claire Smith (pictured) command huge sums of money for Instagram posts

FEMAIL spoke with co-creator of new industry program, The Influencer, Monika Berry, to find out how women are becoming influencers (pictured: Renee Enright for The Influencer)

According to Monika, 'the industry isn't about ads now, it's about influencers' - such as Gabby Epstein (pictured)

The new Influencer program aims to help influencers connect with brands (pictured: Gypsea Lust, the travel blogger)

The four areas in The Influencers' program 1. Business - First of all, this area seeks to work on turning your idea into a business - whether it be in the fashion, fitness, food or lifestyle world. 2. Branding - Next, the program focuses on brands. Which brands would be best aligned with the influencer and why? 3. Creating Content - Then, they will go about creating content that will attract brands to that influencer. 4. Growth - The final section is on growth. Growth both of the influencer's following and making their work multi-dimensional. Advertisement

According to Monika, whose program, The Influencer, was created with fellow Melbourne-based entrepreneur, Kate Toholka, the finished product came about after several years work:

'The industry isn't about ads now, it's about influencers,' Monika told Daily Mail Australia.

'And lots of influencers don't know how to engage well with brands. The Influencer is a programme with an easily accessible format designed to break down the concept of being an influencer and help people to build up their brand.'

As a programme, it is divided up into sections - including Business, Branding, Creating Content and Growth, to help would-be influencers on their way out to market.

Monika revealed that an influencer with somewhere between 200K followers and 800K followers like Hannah Perera (pictured) could earn up to $1,000 per post

Travel blogger, Gypsea Lust (pictured), meanwhile, who boasts 1.9 million followers, could earn up to $17,000 per post thanks to her loyal following

'A micro-influencer is generally regarded as someone with around 3,000 followers and an engaged audience,' Monika explained (pictured: Renee Enright for The Influencer)

But what about the often eye-watering sums that a successful influencer can earn through sponsored or branded posts or uploads?

How much money could you earn? * Micro-influencers (3,000-50,000 followers) - between $75 and $100 per post. * 250,000 followers - between $800 - $1000 per post. * Per 100,000 followers - $500 per 100,000 followers. * 1.6-2 million followers - up to $17,000 per post. * More than 2 million followers - upwards of $17,000. Advertisement

For Monika, it all depends on two things - how many followers that person has and how engaged (read: how many likes, comments or 'engagements' their receive per post) their audience is.

'A micro-influencer is generally regarded as someone with around 3,000 followers and an engaged audience,' she said.

In theory, such a person could command less than $100 for a post containing sponsorship of some kind.

'The average for those who have 250,000-800,000 followers is approximately $800 a post,' Monika said - adding that it, of course, depends on the type of content the influencer is posting - be it an Instagram Story, post or branded post.

'At the top end, someone with 1.6, 1.7 or two million followers could earn up to $17,000 per post,' she said.

'At the top end, someone with 1.6, 1.7 or two million followers could earn up to $17,000 per post,' she added (pictured: Tammy Hembrow, who has 7.8 million followers)

Monika explained that influencers such as Tiffiny Hall (pictured), who has 124,000 followers, are really taking off at the moment - because they are relatable

Monika said that 'micro-influencers can seem refreshing - you don't want to become an advertising coat hanger' (pictured: Renee Enright for The Influencer)

Monika previously revealed that 'the TRIBE influencer app reports their highest earner at $120k a year' (pictured: Nadia Fairfax, who has 179,000 followers)

She added, to Husskie, that: 'The TRIBE influencer app reports their highest earner at $120k a year.

'That said, sponsored posts will become less frequent as influencers will look to "partner" with brands over a series of content and form longer-lasting relationships.'

Monika revealed that some of the influencers who are doing exceptionally well at the moment include the recently-engaged Elle Ferguson, who currently has 632,000 followers on Instagram, and Tiffiny Hall, who has 124,000.

'They're both popping up all over the place at the moment,' she told FEMAIL. 'It helps that they're relatable and stay true to their values.'

'That said, sponsored posts will become less frequent as influencers will look to "partner" with brands over a series of content and form longer-lasting relationships,' she added (pictured: Gabby Epstein, who has 1.7 million followers)

Hannah Perera, for instance (pictured), has 235,000 followers

Speaking about how best to become an influencer like Gypsea Lust (left) and Tammy Hembrow (right), Monika explained it's all about relatability and knowing your whys

Want to become an influencer? Here's what to do 1. Monika Berry said that first of all you need to 'think about your whys'. If your niche is activewear, figure out how you're going to bring some 'value' to the community through your posts. 2. Be true to your intentions and aim to be 'as relatable as possible'. People respond to people who are genuine; not those who want to become an 'advertising coat hanger'. 3. Make sure 'you're not distracted by shiny things on the sidelines, and instead be genuine'. Remember that it's not always the best to ram sponsored posts down people's throats. Advertisement

Speaking about what makes a good influencer, Monika said: 'Relatability is the number one.

'Then, you need to stay true to your why. Don't be distracted by shiny things on the sidelines, which can be easily done. Instead, be genuine - you can really tell when an influencer genuinely cares about what they're promoting.'

Monika said that she thinks the industry is tending more towards the micro-influencer right now, because 'smaller brands are looking to connect with micro-influencers on a local level':

'There became a point when sponsored posts were becoming too in your face,' she added.

'The micro-influencers can seem refreshing - you don't want to become an advertising coat hanger.'

Micro influencers such as Sophie Ascroft (pictured), are big right now because 'smaller brands are looking to connect with micro-influencers on a local level'

She said it's important to not be distracted by 'shiny things on the sidelines' and instead focus on who you are, what your values are and what you want to promote (pictured: Mimi Elashiry and Pia Miller)

In the past, The Influencer have worked with Melbourne-based blogger, Sophie Cachia (pictured), who has 234,000 followers

The likes of fitness designer, Pip Edwards (pictured), also have huge followings - Pip boasts some 113,000 followers

Speaking about where she sees the influencer industry going, Monika revealed that while it's difficult to predict what will happen, there is definitely a market for the micro influencer to flourish:

'Say if you're someone with 30,000 followers and you've got a passion, work out how you can take advantage of it,' she explained.

'The grassroots-style element of The Influencers will help someone niche down to what they want and build up a business.'

Lastly, Monika added that it's important for influencers to make their markets 'multi-dimensional':

'If the Instagram app crashed tomorrow and your sole revenue is Instagram, you wouldn't have a business,' she said.

Make sure you expand out towards other areas, whether you're in fashion, fitness, beauty, lifestyle, food or travel.'

To find out more about The Influencer program, you can click here. The program costs $400+GST or a 2 month payment plan option of 2 x $250+GST.With magazine spreads and a Dolce & Gabbana catwalk under her belt, this rising star is set to join the ranks of fashion royalty.

But unlike most of her glamorous peers, Talita von Furstenberg is a real-life princess.

The 18-year-old is the granddaughter of Prince Egon von Furstenberg of Germany and his first wife, international fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg.

In her latest step towards becoming a bone-fide fashion icon, the American-born starlet was yesterday unveiled as the new muse of her grandmother's eponymous label - and stars as the face of its latest campaign.

Fresh face: Talita von Furstenberg was unveiled as the new face of Diane von Furstenberg. Pictured, the 18-year-old models one of the stunning pieces from Autumn/Winter 18

Social media star: Talita documents her life on Instagram, where she boasts 129,000 followers

Family business: Fashion powerhouse Diane von Furstenberg, 71, has chosen her 18-year-old granddaughter as her latest muse. Pictured, the pair together at a show last year

Von Furstenberg, 71, announced the move on her Instagram account, sharing pictures of Talita working on a DVF show in Florence aged 10 alongside a shot of the her in the most campaign.

In the stunning photo, Talita models a sumptuous bird-printed frock named after her by the brand's new creative director, Nathan Jeden, who has taken the helm following the departure of Jonathan Saunders.

Speaking to Vogue, Talita said she hoped this would be the start of a successful career.

'I definitely do want to go into fashion  design and styling really interests me,' she said. 'At the moment Nathan [Jeden] and I are working on a little TVF for DVF collection. I can balance it with school.'

The campaign is the most high-profile job in Talita's burgeoning fashion career, which has also included a Teen Vogue spread, Tatler cover shoot, and a runway appearance for Dolce & Gabbana at Milan Fashion Week last year.

Jet-set: Talita shares photographs of her enviable lifestyle, including this trip to California

Talita attends the Dolce & Gabbana show during Milan Fashion Week in September 2017

Despite her youth and relative inexperience, Talita always looks perfectly composed and confident in front of the camera, be it a professional shoot or an Instagram selfie. Although this is of little surprise given her glittering pedigree.

Talita is the eldest daughter of their son, Prince Alexander von Furstenberg, 48, and his first wife, Alexandra, 45, a furniture designer.

She is also the niece of Marie-Chantal, Crown Princess of Greece, and is very close to her equally glamorous cousin, Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Denmark, with whom she attends the prestigious Georgetown University in Washington D.C.

Talita is the eldest daughter of their son, Prince Alexander von Furstenberg, 48, and his first wife, Alexandra, 45, a furniture designer. Pictured, Alexandra and Talita pose for a selfie

Diane with her son, Prince Alexander, Talita's father, and daughter, Princess Tatiana

Talita is in her first year and is planning on majoring in international relations.

On her father's side she is also a descendant of the Italy's influential Agnelli family.

Like many young fashion stars, Talita documents her jet-set lifestyle through Instagram, where she boasts 129,000 followers.

Sun-soaked: Teenage star Talita strikes a pose during a recent trip to the Bahamas

Fun-loving: The teenager, who has appeared in magazines, is set to enjoy a brilliant career

The student shares snaps of her international travels, with recent trips to Los Angeles and the Bahamas captured on camera.

The 18-year-old hit the black runs in Aspen during Christmas week before later jetting to an altogether more sultry location.

The super-toned socialite shared Instagram images of herself playing backgammon on the beach and posing in crystal clear waters with a friend.A woman who lost all of her hair at the age of two after being diagnosed with alopecia, has embraced her baldness after years of wearing wigs.

Sarah McManus, 20, from Wishaw, Scotland, decided to ditch hair extensions in a bid to prove that hair doesn't define beauty.

The hair replacement clinic worker's move comes after years of her feeling like a 'boy in a wig' while growing up.

Embracing her new look brought on by the condition, which also means she has no body hair, has given Sarah newfound confidence, years after being left to feel embarrassed by comments from fellow school children.

Sarah McManus, 20, from Wishaw, Scotland decided to ditch wigs in a bid to prove that hair doesn't define beauty

Speaking about her condition, Sarah admitted: 'My hair fell out pretty quickly when I was two and never recovered from then, I lost it all in the space of three weeks.

'I'm now completely bald and have no body hair whatsoever'.

Her condition started off as alopecia areata, where her hair fell out in patches but developed into alopecia universalis which left her bald and without any body hair.

Sarah's alopecia didn't affect her wellbeing until she started school when people would ask her if she was wearing a wig.

The hair replacement clinic worker's brave move comes after years of her feeling like a 'boy in a wig' while growing up

Embracing her new look brought on by the condition has given Sarah newfound confidence, years after being left to feel embarrassed by comments from fellow school children

'It didn't affect me too much until I started school, then it had a huge impact on my life. Someone made a comment asking if I "wore a wig" which lead me to social media and explained my condition and from there I can't say I've had many negative responses,' she admitted.

Sarah struggled as a teenager and relied on makeup to give herself confidence.

'As a teenager it was definitely hard, I felt less girly, I felt like a boy in a wig hiding my face,' she admitted.

Sarah's alopecia didn't affect her wellbeing until she started school when people would ask her if she was wearing a wig

'My hair fell out pretty quickly when I was two and never recovered from then, I lost it all in the space of three weeks', Sarah remembered of her condition

WHAT IS ALOPECIA? Alopecia, which causes baldness, is thought to be an autoimmune disorder. The immune system - the body's defense system - turns on itself. What are the symptoms? 'Typically, one or more small bald patches, about the size of a 50p piece, appear on the scalp. The hair can start to regrow at one site, while another bald patch develops. Hair may also begin to thin all over the head,' says Marilyn Sherlock, chairman of the Institute of Trichologists. What causes it? 'For some reason, the body's immune system begins to attack its own hair follicles. Special white blood cells in the body, known as T-lymphocytes, cause the hair to stop growing,' she adds. Can worry make it worse? Stress has been shown to prolong the problem. Is it an inherited condition? There is strong evidence to suggest that alopecia, like other auto-immune diseases, runs in families. About 25 per cent of patients have a family history of the disorder. Who gets it? Alopecia areata usually affects teenagers and young adults, but it can affect people of any age. It is just as common among men as women. Is there a cure? There is no known cure, although there are various treatments which may be effective for some people. Advertisement

'Having to turn to makeup from a young age to draw on eyebrows and give the impression of eyelashes that gave me more confidence and realise that being bald shouldn't make me feel less feminine.

'I'm very lucky to have such supportive family, friends and a boyfriend who has always supported me, and remind me how inspiring I am.'

And her new role helped change her outlook on beauty and improve her confidence to leave the house without a wig.

'I recently started work in a hair replacement clinic in Motherwell which has changed my life for the better, I would hardly take pictures without my wig on and never leave the house without it before,' Sarah said.

Sarah's condition started off as alopecia areata, where her hair fell out in patches but developed into alopecia universalis which left her bald and without any body hair

'I believe I've started to embrace my baldness because I've realised my condition may be life changing but it's not life threatening, and I see women who come to the hair replacement clinic going through chemotherapy and think how lucky I am.'

Speaking about her new look, Sarah admitted she hopes to inspire chemotherapy patients to do the same.

'Now I have my wig off more than I have it on and it feels amazing, I've always wanted to work with women and men with hair loss as I can relate, and it feels fantastic doing that,' she explained.

Speaking about her new look, Sarah admitted she hopes to inspire chemotherapy patients to do the same

Sarah now regularly posts pictures of herself with and without a wig on her Instagram and hopes that by sharing bald selfies on social media that she can inspire others to be themselves.

'I'm so happy I started to share my journey on Instagram with regular updates on my treatments I've been receiving,' she said.

'I'm so overwhelmed with the response I've had on social media with messages from people all over the world with the same condition looking for wig advice, makeup advice or just how to cope.

'I want others with the same condition to be themselves. I hope by me sharing my bald selfies on social media it can inspire others too. Hair does not define beauty.'As Dutch queen consort, she is normally preened and polished to perfection.

But Maxima of the Netherlands looked momentarily dishevelled today as she was met with a strong gust of wind during a working visit to rural Indonesia.

The Argentine-born royal, 46, giggled as a sudden breeze blew her hair into disarray while meeting farmers in Sumatra's Lampung province on Monday.

Braving temperatures of up to 30 degrees, Maxima stayed cool in a boho-inspired patterned skirt and pale blue blouse teamed with a statement necklace as she chatted and posed for photos with her hosts.

The stylish royal added a touch of glamour to her ensemble with a pair of oversized shades and a straw trilby hat.

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Gone with the wind! Queen Maxima looked momentarily dishevelled today as she was met with a strong gust of wind during a tour of rural Indonesia

Holding her own: The Argentine-born royal, 46, giggled as a sudden breeze blew her hair into her face while meeting farmers in Lampung province on Monday

Keeping cool: Maxima stayed cool in a boho-inspired patterned skirt and pale blue blouse teamed with a statement necklace as she chatted and posed for photos with her hosts

The mother-of-three, who is on a working visit to southeast Asia, spent two days in China with husband King Willem-Alexander last week where she joined Dutch Ambassador to China Ed Kronenburg and his wife Liliane for luncheon in Beijing.

She is now embarking on a two-day solo visit to the Republic of Indonesia in her capacity as the United Nations Secretary-Generals Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development.

According to the Royal Household of the Netherlands, Maxima's visit aims to boost Indonesias National Strategy for Financial Inclusion, helping locals to access savings accounts, loans, pensions and insurance.

After stopping off at Lampung on the island of Sumatra today, she will meet with the secretariat of the Inclusive Finance National Council on Tuesday.

The glamorous royal has visited Indonesia twice before in her UN role, in April 2012 and in August 2016.

Royally stylish: The stylish royal added a touch of glamour to her ensemble with a pair of oversized shades and a straw trilby hat

Busy week: The mother-of-three, who is on a working visit to southeast Asia, spent two days in China with husband King Willem-Alexander last week where she joined Dutch Ambassador to China Ed Kronenburg and his wife Liliane for luncheon in Beijing

Working visit: Maxima is embarking on a two-day solo visit to Indonesia in her capacity as the UN Secretary-Generals Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development

Cut out for the job: An international financier by training, Maxima and married into the Dutch royal family in 2002, three years after meeting her husband-to-be in Spain

Worthy cause: According to the Royal Household of the Netherlands, Maxima's visit aims to boost Indonesias National Strategy for Financial Inclusion, helping locals to access savings accounts, loans, pensions and insurance

Maxima (centre) and King Willem-Alexander are parents to three daughters; Catharina-Amalia, 14, Alexia, 12, and Ariane, 10

Third visit: The glamorous royal has visited Indonesia twice before in her UN role, in April 2012 and in August 2016

An international financier by training, Maxima was born in Argentina and married into the Dutch royal family in 2002, three years after meeting her husband-to-be in Seville, Spain.

The King and Queen are parents to three daughters; Catharina-Amalia, 14, Alexia, 12, and Ariane, 10.

Despite reportedly having no inkling that Willem-Alexander was heir to the throne when the pair first met, she eventually became Queen consort when her husband ascended to the throne.

Willem-Alexander became king after his mother, Beatrix, abdicated in April 2013 after 33 years as reigning monarch.Meghan is a champion of the wrap coat, wearing a camel version by Canadian brand Sentaler during her first Christmas at Sandringham.

And now, stylist Emily Monckton has revealed how you can emulate her look, no matter what your body shape.

She has selected different cuts and gorgeous accessories to suit you - whether you are busty, or have a boyish or pear shape.

Meghan is a champion of the wrap coat, wearing a camel version by Canadian brand Sentaler during her first Christmas at Sandringham

BUSTY

PEAR SHAPE

BOYISHA mother has revealed how her daughter experience a terrifying health scare after a trip to the hairdressers when the stylist discovered what turned out to be a tumour on her daughter's skull.

Hairdresser Karen Gammon spotted the lump on 17-year-old Chloe Wickham's head when went around to her Devon home to cut her shoulder-length, brown hair.

She knew it wasn't there before as she'd been styling her hair every six weeks since she was a child.

When I parted Chloe's hair, I saw a lump like half a peach stuck on. It was hard,' she recalled. 'I didn't want to scare her, but I'd never seen anything like it in over 25 years of hairdressing and told Julie to get it checked out.

Chloe underwent surgery to remove the tumour, which was sandwiched between two layer of the skull, and thankfully it turned out to be non-cancerous.

By a cruel coincidence, Chloe's friend Agathe Rios, who she'd met on a French exchange trip in 2014, had also been diagnosed with a brain tumour and has since passed away.

Hairdresser Karen Gammon spotted a lump of 17-year-old Chloe Wickham's head as she cut her hair at her Devon home, which turned out to be a brain tumour

It took surgeons five hours to remove the tumour, which had been between two layers of Chloe's skull

'I was heartbroken when Agathe died, she meant so much to me,' Chloe said. 'And it made me even more grateful my tumour hadn't been cancerous.

'And I'm so grateful to Karen for noticing it while she was cutting my hair. If she hadn't, it would have got bigger and may have been more difficult to remove.'

Hairdresser Karen alerted Chloe's mother Julie to the lump on her hair during an appointment in September 2016.

'I hadn't noticed anything,' art and design student Chloe recalled. 'When I felt it myself, I thought it felt a bit odd but I didn't really think anything of it.

Chloe with her friend Agathe who was diagnosed with a brain tumour before Chloe's skull tumour was discovered

'It wasn't painful and I hadn't any headaches or any other symptoms at all.'

Her GP said that it was just a normal bony part of her skull - an occipital protuberance - but Julie wasn't convinced and mother's instinct told her not to accept the verdict.

'It hadn't been there before,' she said. 'It was about the size of an egg but flat and not sticking out. It just didn't feel right,' said Julie.

She returned to the GP for referred Chloe for an MRI scan on Nov 16 2016.

Hairdresser Karen Gammon had cut Chloe's hair all her life and was first to spot tumour when sh was giving her a trim

'I was outside in the waiting room and heard someone say, 'We'll have to get the doctor to look at this,' Julie recalled.

'I had a horrible sick feeling, but told myself they may have been talking about someone else.

But later that afternoon they were called in to see the GP who told them Chloe had a tumour.

'You instantly think cancer and your mind jumps to the worst that can happen,' said Julie.

'It's just that word tumor  it's so frightening,' added Chloe. 'One minute I was a carefree teenager, the next I was frightened I might have cancer.'

Chloe with her mother Julie, brother Jake and dad Roger, who is taking part in a charity cycle to raise funds in memory of her late friend

Chloe's friend Agathe Rios, who she'd met on a French exchange trip in 2014, had been diagnosed with a brain tumour in the same year, which turned out to be cancerous.

'When we found out Chloe had a tumour, of course we both immediately thought of Agathe,' said Julie.

'It hit home what her family were going through and I prayed that Chloe's tumour wasn't cancerous, too.'

Chloe and Agathe had clicked from the moment they met, and they had visited her in France a moth earlier.

The teenager and her mother Julie were thrilled to discover her tumour was not cancerous

'We just made each other laugh at the silliest little things and had our in-jokes,' said Chloe. 'And she was so kind.

'But we didn't really talk about her brain tumour  I think she wanted me to take her mind off it. I knew she was on chemo tablets, though, and in and out of hospital.'

The following month, Chloe had surgery at Derriford Hospital, Plymouth and Julie prayed it wouldn't be the last time she'd see her daughter.

'I was terrified she wouldn't make it through the operation,' she said. 'We'd be warned that she could be left blind, deaf or that she might even die.'

Julie and her husband Roger were overjoyed when surgeons told them the five-hour operation had been a success  they'd removed the whole tumour, which had been between two layers of Chloe's skull.

Chloe attended her friend's funeral in Lyon and was devastated by her death

Chloe was discharged two days later. On Christmas Eve, the hospital rang to say biopsy results revealed the tumour was non-cancerous.

'It was the best Christmas present ever,' said Julie. 'I emailed Cecile after Christmas to let her know. She mentioned that Agathe wasn't doing very well.

'Of course, I knew they'd be happy for us but, as one mum to another, I couldn't help feeling guilty that her daughter had cancer and mine didn't.'

Chloe recovered quickly after surgery, apart from sickness and dizziness for a week.

Sadly, Agathe died in May last year, aged 16.

'Roger and I took Chloe over to Lyon for her funeral,' said Julie. 'It was so emotional and upsetting. We were all devastated for Cecile, Agathe's dad, Stephan, and her sister, Juliette.

'Agathe was such a lovely, beautiful girl. She should have had a bright future to look forward to.'

Roger and other cyclists in the Tour to Lyon will cycle 700 miles from Barnstaple, Devon to Agathe's home town in Lyon, France in September

Now Chloe is looking forward to studying interior design from September at Plymouth University. She's passed her driving test and loves zipping around in her Peugeot 107.

In memory of Agathe, Roger and other cyclists in the Tour to Lyon will cycle 700 miles from Barnstaple, Devon to Agathe's home town in Lyon, France in September to raise awareness and funds for The Brain Tumour Charity TSA (Tuberous Sclerosis) and the Centre Leon Berard, a specialist cancer hospital in Lyon where Agathe was treated. www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tourtolyon

Geraldine Pipping, The Brain Tumour Charity's Director of Fundraising said; 'We're so sorry that Agathe's family and Chloe have suffered the heartache of losing her to this cruel disease.

'And we are hugely grateful that Chloe's dad and team-mates are embarking on a 700-mile bike ride to raise money for us in Agathe's memory.

'Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and under-40s in the UK, yet less than two per cent of the 500 million pounds spent annually on cancer research is spent on brain tumours.

'We receive no government funding so rely on wonderful fundraisers like the Wickhams, donations and gifts in wills to help fund our mission to defeat brain tumours.'

For more information visit thebraintumourcharity.orgShe has earned a reputation as one of Europe's most stylish royals and today Queen Letizia proved she is still worthy of that title.

The Queen of Spain stepped out in an elegant lace blouse for the delivery of the National Innovation and Design Awards in Madrid.

Far from the classic fitted shape we are used to seeing on female royals, Letizia, 45, opted for a trendy oversize blouse in a pale lilac complete with unusual puffed sleeves.

Queen Letizia of Spain looked lovely in lace as she attended the National Innovation and Design Awards in Madrid on Monday

Known for her love of tailoring it was no surprise to see the mother-of-two pair her broderie anglaise style top with a pair of bootcut black trousers on Monday.

Upon her arrival in the Spanish capital the former journalist wrapped up in a loose-fitting black wool coat, keeping out the February chill.

Keeping her accessories to a minimum, the monarch could be seen carrying a chic woven clutch in lilac and black, adding a pair of bejewelled earrings in complementary colours.

She was joined by husband King Felipe VI who looked dapper in a pin stripe suit and an eye-catching tie

The former journalist wrapped up in a black wool coat as she arrived in the Spanish capital

She wore her glossy tresses loose with her brunette locks seemingly blow-dried to perfection.

Joining her at the awards today was 50-year-old King Felipe VI who looked his dapper best in a blue pin stripe suit and an eye-catching red tie.

The royal couple received their usual warm welcome from well-wishers as they arrived at Teatro del Bosque this morning.

The royal couple took to the stage where they presented awards to this year's winners

Letizia's choice to wear an oversize blouse is unusual for royal women who normally opt for a more fitted shape

The couple took to the stage at the ceremony where they presented awards to the successful candidates.

The National Awards for Innovation and Design are presented to companies and professionals who have stood out in the field of design and innovation.

Letizia shares children Leonor, 12, and Sofia, 10, with King Felipe, 49, whom she married in 2004.

The family recently gave a rare glimpse into their family life with the release a set of photos taken inside their home in correlating with the recent celebrations for the king's 50th birthday.

The images displayed the normal side to the monarch's life with the quartet enjoying a casual family meal among the pictures.Q. Can anything be done to banish my puffy-looking eyelids? Both of my sisters suffer from them too. They are particularly bad in the mornings!

A. Because its worse in the morning, I will assume your puffiness is due to water retention and not fat deposits (which can be surgically removed, or counterbalanced with filler injections).

Oculoplastic surgeon Sabrina Shah-Desai, of Londons Perfect Eyes Clinic, suggests seeking advice from an eye doctor such as herself.

A reader asked beauty director Ingeborg van Lotringen if anything could be done to banish her puffy eyelids (file photo)

This is to check there are no allergies  or thyroid, renal or sinus issues  that could be causing the bloating and require treatment.

Meanwhile, there are a couple of simple remedies you could try.

Reduce your salt intake and elevate your head on an extra pillow at night  both can really improve morning puff.

Ultimately, however, you want to increase the blood flow in the area and the lymphatic fluid drainage from it.

Ingeborg recommended that the reader try reducing her salt intake and elevating her head on an extra pillow at night

HydraFacial, which treats skin with a mechanical vacuum and pressurised water spiked with skincare ingredients to exfoliate and plump, does this job painlessly.

Sabrina offers a full facial including the eye area for 160, while HydraFacial Perk treatments exclusively for eyes cost from 40 nationwide (search on perkskincare.co.uk to find salons).

Ingeborg van Lotringen is beauty director at Cosmopolitan. Email questions to ingevanlotringen@dailymail.co.uk.A professional ballerina has shared a candid photo of her cellulite in a bid to help others stop obsessing over their own dimples.

Kylie Shea Lewallen, 31, took to Instagram on Sunday to post the picture along with an honest message detailing her own body image struggles, and telling those who find it hard to fully embrace their appearance that they are far from alone.

The dancer, from Los Angeles, explained that she wanted to bring more real images to social media, since airbrushed pictures do nothing for people's self-esteem.

Message: Professional ballerina Kylie Shea Lewallen, 31, has shared a candid photo of her cellulite in a bid to help others stop obsessing over their own dimples

Support: The dancer wrote an honest message detailing her own body image struggles, and telling those who find it hard to fully embrace their appearance that they are far from alone

'In a world of flawlessly edited photos, I wanted to share a raw and unedited moment that I had before class today,' she wrote.

'I've had cellulite since I was a pubescent teenager and to this day it makes me feel very vulnerable. I struggled through years of unhealthy eating habits as a young girl, and I continue to work my way through weight gains and losses to this day.'

Kylie had spent the week training 'incredibly hard' for an extra special project when she noticed herself feeling less self-conscious about her cellulite when she looked at herself in the mirror.

'I was compelled to share this part of me that has always felt so uncomfortable,' she added.

'Social media seems to be flooded with women that have not even a square inch of cellulite, as does the classical ballet world, and so I just wanted anyone out there who struggles with this to know that you are not alone.'

Speaking out: Kylie, who was once the principal artist at the Spectrum Dance Theater in Seattle has broached the subject of body image straightforwardly on social media

Standards:'Social media seems to be flooded with women that have not even a square inch of cellulite, as does the classical ballet world,' she wrote

The dancer ended her message on an encouraging note for her 266,000 followers, writing: 'Keep training hard and remember that our bodies will respond best to all of our hard work when our minds are healthy and our souls are nourished.'

Kylie, who was once the principal artist at the Spectrum Dance Theater in Seattle, Washington, has broached the subject of body image straightforwardly on social media, including in her video series Pointe Chronicles, in which she shares bits of her life as a dancer.

In September, Kylie shared a video of herself in her underwear, contorting her body, pinching her skin, and performing various body checks before dancing on pointe.

'This is me. I am 5'6". My weight fluctuates from 108 pounds to 135 pounds,' she wrote in the caption. 'My body is extremely sensitive to what I eat, the way I workout, my period, and the ups and downs of life.'

She recounted feeling 'strong and confident' just three weeks prior, but explained she had recently started feeling 'the complete opposite' and decided to channel her feelings into her video.

Clip: In September, Kylie shared a video of herself in her underwear, contorting her body, pinching her skin, and performing various body checks before dancing on pointe

Honest: She recounted feeling 'strong and confident' just three weeks prior, but explained she had recently started feeling 'the complete opposite' before filming the video

'Part of your job as a dancer is to maintain a very specific aesthetic,' she added. 'Those specifics can vary drastically from style to style and be very difficult to maintain.'

Kylie said people often ask her how to stay fit, and described the process as 'a constant battle to maintain a healthy balance, both mind and body'.

'Some weeks I find it better than others. I go through cycles with my weight, my creativity, my drive, my darkness, and everything else,' she added.

'I am working towards self love 100 per cent of the time, and starting today I am challenging myself to banish any negative body image thoughts from my mind, because there is no time for such nonsense.'

Kylie hoped her video would inspire others to start changing their mindset in a similar way.

'The world needs our love, kindness, and positivity more than ever,' she added. 'And the more we give this to ourselves, the more we will be able to share it with each other.'A woman has revealed what it is really like to work as a Disney princess, from daily workouts to maintaining the company's trademark look.

The woman, identified under the nickname Becca, started working at Disneyland in Anaheim, California, several years ago, and told Refinery29 she currently makes on average $250 to $350 per 20-hour workweek.

Every morning, Becca, along with her fellow Disney cast members, comes to work in her regular clothes, since the costumes must always remain within the company's property.

A woman has revealed anonymously what it is really like to work as a Disney princess, from daily workouts to maintaining the company's trademark look (file picture)

'We clock in, collect all the costume pieces we'll need for the day, do our stretch and flex workout that trainers have us follow to warm up our bodies, and then it's time to get ready,' she told the website.

'We're given an hour and a half before our first meet-and-greet to get into our wig, costume, and make-up.'

In order to care for their wigs, cast members can rely on the help of cosmetologists; however, they are expected to do their own make-up and are taught how to do it during training.

Disney provides cast members with powder, eyeliner, glitter, lipstick, eyeshadow, and blush by Ben Nye, due to the brand's pigmentation, which 'stands out better' according to Becca. Using one brand for all the products also ensures the employees look 'consistent'.

Managers can come in at any time and tell us we aren't up to "Disney Look"

Becca uses her own mascara, concealer and foundation to complete her look.

When it comes to her personal appearance, Becca said she and other cast members must adhere to a 'Disney look' defined by the company.

'Hair is supposed to appear natural, which means no crazy colors or ombre, but since my hair isn't being seen by guests, I feel like I can push the limits on how long I can go between salon appointments,' she said.

As for nails, according to Becca, cast members have to keep them short and paint them in either 'nude-ish' or 'pink-ish' colors, or get French tips.

'Most of the time, I just keep my nails polish-free, but some girls religiously get their nails done, even if it's acrylic,' she added.

Employees who break the rules can face consequences, according to Becca.

'Managers can come in at any time and tell us we aren't up to "Disney Look", which means they can even potentially take us out of shifts until we fix the problem,' she said.

'In other words, we need to really be on top of keeping our maintenance in check.'

Paying this much attention to her personal appearance has had an impact on Becca's personal body image.

'You can't help but be judgmental about your looks when it comes to this job honestly, it's pretty sad,' she said. 'We all constantly compare ourselves and try to copy each other. I have a gym membership because I feel like I'm supposed to maintain the look I was hired in with.'

Ultimately, what brings Becca the most joy while on the job is the enthusiasm of certain guests who are overcome with excitement when they finally get to meet the princesses at Disneyland.

'I think every one of us would say that talking with the little ones makes our day,' she said.

'There are also guests that share stories about why they've come to see you and they break down in front of you. That really just makes me feel like what I'm doing is truly something special and keeps me going.'

Her testimony echoes that of another former cast member, who shared details of her life as an employee of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

Writing anonymously for PopSugar,the former employee revealed a lot of effort goes into making the theme park the happiest place on earth.

First and foremost, employees are encouraged to use customers names wherever possible.

'Have you ever been surprised by a cast member who uses your name? It's either because you have a pin on with your name on it, or when you paid with your room key or credit card, we took a quick glance at it to get your name,' the ex cast member wrote.

I have a gym membership because I feel like I'm supposed to maintain the look I was hired in with

The former employee also revealed that it is never acceptable to answer a customer question with 'I don't know' and workers must come up with an answer without exception.

In the event that they can't immediately answer a question, they are required to find out the answer, and if asked a 'silly' question, they must produce a 'silly' answer.

'If a child asks you what Tinker Bell eats before her flight across the Magic Kingdom during the fireworks, you better come up with an answer quickly,' the ex employee added.

Aside from strict verbal dos and don'ts, Disney also operates strict policies on staff's gesturesmost noticeably the 'Disney point'.

'All cast members have to point with two fingers so it's not interpreted as being rude' the writer explained.

If employees are lucky enough to catch sight of a famous guest, they absolutely cannot acknowledge the A-lister.

'Celebrities are the same as every other park guest if you're on stage,' the former employee added. 'Asking a celebrity for a photo or autograph is grounds for immediate release from your job.'Tiffany Trump has been keeping a bit of a low profile since New York Fashion Week kicked off on Thursday, but the first daughter has turned up at least one A-list fashion event.

The 24-year-old attended a private dinner in celebration of Phillip Plein's Fall 2018 collection, which was held at the designer's Upper East Side brownstone on Friday night.

She was spotted heading in and out of the star-studded event, glittering in a blue sequin top and shiny, skintight leggings.

Scroll down for video

Good night? Tiffany Trump is seen leaving a private dinner in celebration of designer Philipp Plein's latest collection

Partay! The 24-year-old looked a tad bleary-eyed as she left for the night

Makeup: She wore her blonde hair straightened, pink lipstick, and smokey eyeshadow

Guarded: She was followed by a Secret Service agent in plainclothes

Pins: The first daughter wore a pair of skintight, shiny black leggings

It doesn't appear that Tiffany attended the actual runway show on Sunday, and she does not show up in any pictures from the later event.

Sitting front-row were Kate Upton, Jackie Cruz, Shanina Shaik, Carine Roitfeld, and Victoria Justice, while supermodel Irina Shayk walked the catwalk.

But before the runway show, some guests were invited to a private dinner at the designer's own apartment, which is where Tiffany turned up with a plainclothes Secret Service agent in tow.

She wore a pair of shiny black leggings for the evening out, topped with a blue sequin top and a navy coat.

Proximity to fame: Later, her friend Andrew Warren posted a picture of them at the part on Instagram

Good mood: Tiffany smiled wide as she entered the party earlier Friday evening

Fashion crowd: She glittered in a blue sequin top and accessorized with black heels

Busy? Tiffany has yet to attend any fashion shows this NYFW

The Georgetown student added black heels, gold bangles, a bright green cocktail ring, and a pink clutch.

Several other somewhat-recognizable names and faces were also in attendance, including MLB player Jose Canseco's model daughter Josie Canseco, model Bernice Burgos, and model Durrani Popal.

Jonathan Cheban, Alec Monopoly, Tiny, and Orange is the New Black star Jackie Cruz were also there, as were rappers Ayo and Teo.

Tiffany was also joined by her friend, Andrew Warren, who cast her in his Just Drew fashion show in February 2016. The two posed for a snap together beside an extravagant floral arrangement and several cakes.

Celebs: Others in attendance included MLB player Jose Canseco's model daughter Josie Canseco, model Bernice Burgos, and model Durrani Popal

Celebrate: The party was held days before the designer's runway show

Tiffany has regularly made headlines when she's attended fashion week events in the past, but not always for the best reasons.

In September of 2017, a representative for Tiffany emailed Harper's Magazine to request an invitation to their Fashion Icons  the problem being that it's Harper's Bazaar, not Harper's, that hosts the event.

'I was tempted to create a Harpers Magazine fashion icon event just so we could host her,' joked Giulia Melucci, vice president of public relations at Harpers Magazine. Think Byzantine art, Jesus and the Madonna, the original one!'

The previous NYFW, in February 2017, she attended Philipp Plein's show  and was spotted sitting alone for a few moments when Christina Binkley, a former Wall Street Journal fashion columnist, snapped a picture.

Flashback: At a Philipp Plein show back in February 2017, a fashion editor reported on Twitter that no one wanted to sit next to Tiffany

Whole story: She took several photos and pointed out that people moved to get away from her (but later backtracked and said it was just for a few minutes)

Happened: However, she wasn't the only fashion editor to make the observation

'Nobody wants to sit next to Tiffany Trump at Philipp Plein, so they moved and the seats by her are empty,' Christina wrote. Later, however, she added: 'The two seats remained empty for about 2 minutes before others sat there. Then Philipp Plein's sister made them move so she could sit there.'

Plein came to her defense shortly after, telling TMZ: 'Tiffany Trump is not a politician. She's a teenager. She's... 22, 23 years old? I don't think she has anything to do with the drama and all the discussion going on.

'I just think it's not right to judge or treat someone not with respect because she or he is the daughter or son of somebody people might not like,' he went on

'I honestly didn't invite her,' he added. 'I was told there was and interest, there was a request from her PR office to see the show, and I said, why not?'Mother-of-two Heather Holland, 38, (left) and Aaron Masterson, 12, (right) were killed by the flu on Sunday

A mother-of-two, 38, died from complications stemming from the flu after deciding the medication to treat the virus was too expensive.

Heather Holland, of Weatherford, Texas, fell ill last Monday and was diagnosed with the flu on Wednesday.

In order to treat her ailment, doctors prescribed her Tamiflu, an antiviral medication widely used during flu season.

However, the second grade teacher thought it 'cost too much' according to her husband Frank, who eventually bought his wife the medication on Thursday when her symptoms did not ease up.

'Friday night, things escalated and she ended up in the ICU,' Holland told the online publication weatherforddemocrat.com.

'The doctors got the blood cultures back and they had to put her on dialysis early Saturday.'

By then, Heather's body had gone into septic shock and died the following day, leaving behind her husband, a 10-year-old daughter and a seven-year-old son.

Heather Holland, 38, fell ill with the flu last Monday and got prescribed Tamiflu (pictured) on Wednesday but declined taking it because 'it cost too much' her husband said

'I have to be strong for the kids but it's still surreal, it hasn't all set in,' Holland said. 'We've been together a long time, over half my life. She's my best friend, my soulmate, my everything.

'It hasn't set in with them yet either,' Holland said of his children.

Holland described his late wife as a passionate educator who devoted her entire life to aiding her small Texas the community.

'She loved helping people, helping the kids, and the kids loved her,' Holland said.

HOW CAN THE FLU BE DEADLY? Flu often leaves sufferers feeling sick and riddled with a constant cough and runny nose. However, in extreme cases it can be deadly. It poses the biggest risks to the elderly, young children, pregnant women and those with a compromised immune system. Asthma, diabetes and heart disease patients also face an increased risk of death from the usually harmless virus. But the flu, which has so far claimed the lives of more than 37 children and 85 adults in the US, can cause potentially fatal complications, for adults of any age. It can lead to pneumonia and also trigger sepsis  an infection that sparks a violent immune response in which the body attacks its own organs. Advertisement

Charlotte LaGrone, a spokesperson for the Weatherford Independent School District, said Monday that it was still coping with Holland's sudden death.

'Today is a difficult day at that campus, and we are working our processes to care for students, parents and staff,' La Grone said in a statement said.

Counselors at Bose Ikard Elementary, where Holland taught for the past several years, also said they will be offering their services throughout the week to assist students, staff and parents.

To assuage fears among parents and faculty, Weatherford ISD said that it has taken precautions to insure the health and safety of their students.

'Our campus custodians have been deep-cleaning our schools since December, and the campus where the teacher worked underwent another deep cleaning on Friday, Feb. 2,' a written statement from the district said.

'We continue to remind students and parents of healthy habits during the cold and flu season.'

This flu season is on track to becoming one of the worst in recent history, according to the CDC.

On the same day as Holland's death, Aaron Masterson, 12, was declared brain dead and taken off of life support after cystic fibrosis made his flu diagnosis deadly.

Aaron, from Huntsville, Alabama, also suffered from cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that damages the lungs and restricts the ability to breathe, making his flu diagnosis even worse.

Aaron died that night, making him one of more than 53 children to be killed by the flu this season, while Heather is one of the 20 reported deaths in the Dallas Fort Worth area this record-breaking flu season.

Aaron, from Huntsville, Alabama, also suffered from cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that damages the lungs and restricts the ability to breathe, making his flu diagnosis even worse

The dominant H3N2 strain, dubbed the 'Aussie flu', has been wreaking havoc this year and the flu vaccine is only 34 percent effective against this particular strain.

However, CDC officials are urging everyone to get their flu shot and say it is not too late as the vaccine is even more effective against the H1N1 and B viruses, which killed Aaron.

This year's flu is set to becoming one of the worst in recent history and already has the highest rate of hospitalizations than any other year.

On Friday, Dr Dan Jernigan, director of the CDC's Influenza Division, said that this is an unusual pattern for the flu as health officials expected activity to have already reached its peak at this time - but it continues to get worse.

The virus is widespread in 48 states, including Texas and Alabama, after Oregon dropped down to regional level to join Hawaii.

Health officials are warning everyone to take extra precaution to prevent the spread of the flu by washing your hands regularly and avoiding contact with everyone.

People can harbor the flu virus whether they look ill or not, therefore doctors urge everyone to be vigilant.

'Supporting one's immune system with good rest and adequate hydration may help reduce the severity of symptoms,' Dr Brian Secemsky, an internist at One Medical in San Francisco, told Daily Mail Online.

'Washing hands often, wearing masks, and staying home from work during periods of fever can help reduce the transmission of the virus,' he added.A woman with a cocktail of rare health conditions, has revealed how she wakes up almost every morning with a 'terrible hangover but without the fun of the night before'.

Sarah Moughtin, 34, from Tunbridge Wells, Kent, suffers from lymphocytic hypophysitis, hypopituitarism and diabetes insipidus, which caused her to go from being healthy and active to virtually bedridden within months.

Ms Moughtin, whose life was 'turned upside down' when she discovered a marble-like lump behind her ear during a packed tube journey in October 2014, says her conditions have caused her to miss out on major life events, including the birth of her niece.

She even describes herself, as a 'ticking time bomb' as she could suffer a life-threatening 'adrenal crisis' at any time, which causes sufferers to go into shock and experience uncontrollable vomiting.

Her disorders have also shattered Ms Moughtin's confidence as her steroid treatment has caused her to gain 88lbs (40kg) since she started the therapy in February 2015.

Despite her conditions, Ms Moughtin, an assistant buyer for John Lewis, is determined to stay positive, saying: 'Life sometimes takes you in a different directions, challenges you and makes you all the stronger for it.'

Ms Moughtin is speaking out to raise awareness of the Pituitary Gland foundation who she is completing a sponsored abseil for in July.

Sarah Moughtin suffers from a cocktail of health complications that make her feel hungover every day. Pictured before she became unwell in the last time she felt 'happy and free'

Ms Moughtin went from being healthy and active to virtually bedridden in months

She describes herself as a 'ticking time bomb' as she could go into deadly shock at any time

WHAT IS LYMPHOCYTIC HYPOPHYSITIS? Lymphocytic hypophysitis occurs when lymph nodes become infiltrated with white blood cells. This causes them to enlarge and become less able to carry out their vital role in the immune system. Lymphocytic hypophysitis' US and UK prevalence is unknown. The exact cause is also unclear but is thought to be related to the immune system attacking itself. Women are more likely to suffer, particularly during pregnancy or after childbirth. The main symptoms include headache and impaired vision. Around one-third of female sufferers stop their periods or cannot produce breast milk, while men suffer sexual dysfunction. Some sufferers get better without any symptoms. Others require anti-inflammatory and immune-suppressing medication. Treatment also focuses on relieving symptoms, such as headache. Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center Advertisement

'There was a strange lump in front of my ear'

Ms Moughtin, who is single, first became aware something was seriously wrong while on a commute home.

She said: 'I sort of put my head in my hands as I was squashed into the corner and then I felt it - there was a strange lump in front of my ear. It was quite hard, like a marble under my skin. I knew it wasn't normal.'

Ms Moughtin had visited her GP a few weeks earlier complaining of headaches that left her feeling like she had 'been punched,' but were dismissed by her doctor as work-related stress.

After making a second appointment, Ms Moughtin said: 'The doctor was a bit perplexed by it and put it down to hormones, but suggested a CT scan to check it out.'

By November, Ms Moughtin's health had deteriorated further, with her experiencing facial swelling and near-constant vomiting.

Staying with her parents, John, 67, and Heather, 61, in Cornwall, Ms Moughtin was in and out of hospital as doctors tried to control her symptoms and stop her losing weight.

Her vision also became increasingly blurred to the point she was forced to wear an eye patch.

Ms Moughtin (pictured in hospital) first became aware something was seriously wrong when she discovered a marble-like lump behind her ear while commuting on a packed tube

Her condition deteriorated when she experienced facial swelling and near-constant vomiting

Her vision also became blurred, to the point she was forced to wear an eye patch

Doctors were initially unsure what was wrong and suspected cancer of the salivary glands

A biopsy of the lump confirmed her diagnoses, but broke a needle as it was so hard

She was in and out of hospital to keep her hydrated and avoid vomiting causing weight loss

WHAT IS HYPOPITUITARISM? Hypopituitarism occurs when the pituitary gland does not produce any, or sufficient, hormones. Less than 200,000 people suffer in the US. Worldwide, around 4.2 per 100,000 have the condition. Hypopituitarism is usually caused by a non-cancerous tumour putting pressure on the pituitary gland. Other causes may be infections, head injuries, or surgery or radiotherapy. Symptoms include: Excessive fatigue

Irregular periods in women and impotence in men

Reduced sex drive

Weight gain

Increased sensitivity to cold

Dry, pale skin

Headaches

Poor vision Treatment includes taking missing hormones. Surgery may be required if a tumour is the cause. Source: Hormone Health Network Advertisement

'I could hardly move'

On January 3, 2015, Ms Moughtin was admitted to the Royal Cornwall Hospital for three weeks, where she was kept hydrated while doctors tried to uncover the cause of her alarming health problems.

She said: 'At first, they thought I had cancer in the salivary gland and then lymphoma, which is, at least, treatable.

'Still, it didn't feel like good news and I was incredibly frightened. Having to tell my parents was very traumatic.

'One of the hardest things was that my sister Kate Grummit, 36, gave birth to my niece while I was in hospital. I was meant to be with her at the birth, but I could hardly move.'

Transferred to St George's Hospital in Tooting, south west London, for more tests, Ms Moughtin was relieved when doctors told her they believed she had a pituitary condition.

This was confirmed in May 2015, however, the cause of her complications remains unclear.

The marble-like lump behind Ms Moughtin's ear was so hard, it broke the needle when doctors tried to carry out a biopsy.

A few months after her diagnosis, Ms Moughtin suffered a life-threatening incident, when her adrenal glands produced too little of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone, causing her to go into shock.

She was saved by an emergency injection.

Ms Moughtin (pictured with her father John) went into shock a few months after her diagnosis when her pituitary glands produced insufficient amounts of vital hormones

Ms Moughtin's condition has clearly taken its toll on her parents. She was only saved from the life-threatening shock, which caused her to vomit uncontrollably, by an emergency injection

She moved back in with her parents while she recovered (pictured with her mother Heather)

WHAT IS DIABETES INSIPIDUS? Diabetes insipidus (DI) causes excessive urination. In extreme cases, sufferers can pass more than 20 litres a day, which often leads to increased thirst. If hydration levels are not restored, sufferers may experience cracked skin, fatigue, confusion, dizziness and unconsciousness. DI affects around three in every 100,000 people in the US and UK. It is unrelated to diabetes mellitus, which affects blood sugar levels. DI is caused by insufficient levels of the hormone that is needed to control kidneys' urine production. This can be inherited or occur due to kidney disease, sickle cell disease or, in rare cases, pregnancy. There is no cure for inherited forms of the disease. Sufferers have to stay hydrated, avoid salt and take medication to control their urine outputs. Source: The Pituitary Foundation Advertisement

'It's completely changed my life'

Since her diagnosis, Ms Moughtin has relied on steroids, however, these come with serious side effects.

She said: 'Steroids cause a lot of weight gain and I have put on 40kg since I started taking them in February 2015.

'It's really affected my confidence and it's completely changed my life.

'That can feel quite isolating, as it is not easy to explain without alarming people and the last thing I want to do is worry anyone, so I tend to try and hide it.

'I have missed out on big life moments, Weddings of some of my closest friends, babies that I have yet to meet, as I've been too poorly.

'I had to beg to be discharged in order to attend my grandma's funeral in 2016. We were very close and it was so important that I was there to say goodbye and support my mum and grandad.'

Ms Moughtin says her life has been changed completely due to her illness (pictured before)

Ms Moughtin (pictured before in New Zealand) tries to hide her condition from others

She does not want to worry people, who often find it 'alarming' (pictured with her friend Claire)

Ms Moughtin missed her sister Kate's ([pictured) labour as she felt too unwell to move

'It feels just like being hungover but without the fun'

Despite her health problems, Ms Moughtin is determined to carry on with her life and remain positive.

She said: 'I wake up and it feels just like being hungover, but of course without the fun of the night before. I feel sick, my head is sore, I feel a bit disorientated and I'm always really dehydrated, but I'm learning to live with it.

'I'm lucky that I don't have to go through this alone. I have a wonderful support network through my family, friends and medical professionals. I am thankful every day for our amazing NHS.

'I am able to go to work, and have lots to be thankful for and to laugh about. It's not always easy, but I love my job and I now live in Kent, so I am close to my sister and her children.'

Donate towards Ms Moughtin's abseil for the the Pituitary Foundation here.

Ms Moughtin (pictured six months after leaving hospital) gained 88lbs due to her treatment

Despite missing out on many events, she claims she has learned to live with it (pictured before)

She adds she feels dehydrated, nauseous and disorientated, as well as suffering headachesGemma Bryant spoke of a bittersweet rollercoaster of emotions after her ordeal

A baby girl has been described as a 'true miracle' after surviving in the womb for two weeks after her twin brother was stillborn.

Gemma Bryant, 35, spoke of a bittersweet rollercoaster of emotions after the pain of losing her son Kobi Nathaniel was followed by the joy of giving birth to baby Lexie, 17 days later.

After losing Kobi at 21 weeks, doctors warned Gemma and father James, 34, their second twin would likely be born within three days, with very little chance of survival.

But it was a further 17 days before Mrs Bryant went into labour for a second time - giving Lexi a much better chance of survival.

Now a month old, Lexie, who weighed just 1lb 3oz when she was born at 23 weeks at Hull Women and Childrens Hospital, is defying all the odds.

Mrs Bryant, from North Cave, East Riding of Yorkshire, said: 'It really has been an emotional rollercoaster. I am torn emotionally.

'I am heartbroken about Kobi, I feel so sad he was born too early, his little lungs just werent ready.

'He was perfectly formed. He was beautiful. We believe that he did all of that to save Lexie.

'Those days waiting were horrific, not knowing what would happen to her. I was put on bed rest but told to expect the worst.

'But Lexie came out fighting, her arms and legs were all over the place, she was breathing on her own. It was very scary but amazing.'

The heartbreak of losing her son Kobi Nathaniel was followed by the joy of giving birth to baby Lexie (pictured), 17 days later

Now a month old, Lexie, who weighed just 1lb 3oz when she was born at 23 weeks at Hull Women and Childrens Hospital, is defying all the odds

HOW CAN BABIES SURVIVE IN THE WOMB FOR WEEKS AFTER THEIR TWIN HAS BEEN BORN? In 2013, Maria Jones-Elliott made international headlines after her twins, Amy and Katie, were born a record-breaking 87 days apart. The mother, from Waterford, Ireland, went into labour four months early, giving birth to Amy and amazingly Katie arrived nearly three months later. Doctors allowed the feat to happen by performing a delayed interval delivery, a rare and complex procedure. This means the other baby is kept in the womb for as long as possible to boost their chances of survival. The procedure varies, but often the surgeons trick the woman's body into believing no more children need to be delivered. This can be done by giving the woman drugs to control her contractions, or a cerclage - used to prevent labour. While the premature baby is whisked off to intensive care to help them thrive and develop. Advertisement

She added: 'Doctors have told us its the longest theyd ever seen twins born apart.'

When were the twins due to be born?

The twins were due to be born in May, but Mrs Bryants waters broke the day before she was due to go for her 20-week scan.

The mother-of-two knew it was too early for her twins to be born and was told to prepare for losing them both.

It was eight days later, on Christmas Eve, when she went into full labour and Kobi was stillborn at 21 weeks - with lungs too underdeveloped to be saved.

Heart-sinking moment

Mrs Bryant said: 'I had been so excited for my scan the next day.

'I got up and my waters broke and my heart just sank because I knew it wasnt good. Its crazy how your life can change in the blink of an eye.

'I was told twin one was very far down and would be coming soon.

'James and I just held on to the fact there may be a miracle and that they may be wrong, but there was no hope.

'He was born on Christmas Eve at 5.08pm. They told me if she was to come as well neither baby would survive.'

Mrs Bryant, from North Cave, East Riding of Yorkshire, said: 'It really has been an emotional rollercoaster. I am torn emotionally'

The twins were due to be born in May, but Mrs Bryants waters broke the day before she was due to go for her 20-week scan (pictured holding Lexie)

'I didn't know what would happen'

She added: 'They said she would likely be born within three days of him, but it went on even longer.

'It was just horrific, I didnt know what would happen. I was on bed rest in hospital the whole time.

'When I saw her I was in tears at how tiny she was, but tears of joy she even made it that far. I was on cloud nine.'

Lexie was rushed to the neonatal intensive care unit and she was 20 days old before her parents could give her a first cuddle.

Mrs Bryant added: 'It was amazing. I burst into tears because it was just relief, holding my little girl. It was just lovely.

'I had her on me for over two hours, she was so settled, her heart rate was normal, all the machines stopped going off, it was as if she was content.

'We are now taking each day as it comes.

'We have had really good days and not so good days, but she seems to keep fighting and fighting.'

When will Lexie be out of hospital?

She continued: 'Were just totally besotted with her - weve got so much love, we sit there praying for her.

'Sometimes I sit in tears thinking about what shes going through, and other times Im planning for when she comes home.'

The couple said they could not praise the hospital enough for everything they done to save Lexie - who is expected to stay in hospital until her due date in May.A dad-of-three has spoken of his horror after his 19-month-old son was rushed to hospital after his parents found him floppy and unable to move.

Phil Kerman, of Bransholme, Hull, said son Ronnie had been struggling with pain for some time, which he and wife Louise had assumed was simply teething pain.

'We had seen a few little symptoms. He rested his head sometimes and cried a lot but we assumed he was teething because of his age.

'Because he's so young, he can't tell you where the pain is or what he's crying for.'

But the couple were left in shock when they found Ronnie unresponsive in his room.

'I looked at him and the first thing I thought was, "he's had a stroke",' said Phil, 39.

A dad-of-three has spoken of his horror after his 19-month-old son was rushed to hospital after his parents found him floppy and unable to move.

'I picked his arm up and it just flopped. I put him on the floor and he couldn't crawl so I called an ambulance.'

Ronnie was rushed to Hull Royal Infirmary and then onto Leeds General Infirmary (LGI), where doctors found he had two cysts on either side of a non-cancerous tumour in his brain and had suffered a stroke.

Following his diagnosis, doctors also found Ronnie had been living with Neurofibromatosis, or NF, a genetic disorder that causes tumours to form on nerve tissue.

The severity of his tumour has left the infant partially sighted, and he is still in hospital now since being rushed in last Friday, with medics continuing to monitor him.

Phil said: 'We were blue lighted all the way to LGI and we've been here for a week now. When we got here he was rushed for an MRI and had his cysts drained of 20ml one side and 21ml the other.

Phil Kerman, of Bransholme, Hull, has twin sons, Ronnie and Robert, with his wife, Louise.

'Today is the first day he hasn't had a procedure done.

'They've put some stents in his brain so that when they put a needle in it can drain the cysts, but they seem to be going down.'

On February 19, Ronnie will undergo an operation to remove part of the tumour before having a year-long dose of chemotherapy to shrink it.

Phil said: 'He will have part of the tumour cut out and like a bypass on the arteries on his skull.'

Dad Phil said: 'You can tell the doctors and surgeons really care. I have a friend in America who has started a prayer chain in New York for Ronnie and we've had 70 prayers so far.'

Although Phil himself lives with NF, it is a much milder form than Ronnie's.

His parents, who also have a four-year-old daughter, Emily, say they are still in disbelief about what has happened to their young son.

'I feel heartbroken and I'm blaming myself wondering if there was anything else I could do. It is all still very frightening and it is so heartbreaking,' said Phil.

'People are saying to me, "how have you found the strength?" But you have to. It's been a very tiring and long week.'

The family have had an outpouring of messages and support since Ronnie was taken ill last week, for which they are very thankful for.

Phil said: 'You can tell the doctors and surgeons really care. I have a friend in America who has started a prayer chain in New York for Ronnie and we've had 70 prayers so far.

'I'm a big KR fan so I posted on the site last night that I was on my way to Leeds to see 'Ronnie the Robin' and explained what's been happening and it's had over 120 comments from people sending their love.

'It's lovely.'A daughter has paid tribute to her 'courageous' mother in a series of powerful images that show the reality of battling breast cancer.

Helen Sheil, 76, from Ipswich, Queensland, had both breasts removed after being diagnosed with the disease 20 years ago, however, the condition has since returned and spread to the mother-of-two's bones.

Ms Sheil, who believes the disease will kill her, bared her scars alongside her daughter Nikki Lange, 52, from Sydney, who has helped care for her throughout her years of grueling treatment.

Ms Lange, who also has two children, said: 'I thought we really need to highlight this and I'm not shy about putting it out there.

'I am really feeling the imminent death of my mother.'

Around one in eight women in the US and UK will develop breast cancer at some point in their lifetimes.

Nikki Lange, 52, (left) has paid tribute to her 'courageous' mother Helen Sheil, 76, (right) in a series of powerful images that show the reality of battling breast cancer

Helen Sheil (pictured with Ms Lange before becoming seriously ill) had both breasts removed after being diagnosed with the disease 20 years ago, however, the condition has returned

WHAT IS A DOUBLE MASTECTOMY? A double mastectomy is the removal of both breasts. This is a way of treating breast cancer and is often done to women who are at a high risk of the disease returning after therapy. The treatment may also be suitable for women who are unable to have radiation therapy, have a tumour larger than 5cm across or have a mutation, such as in the BRCA gene, that increases their cancer risk. Most women stay in hospital for one or two nights but are able to return to their regular activities within around four weeks. Side effects can include pain, swelling, a build up of blood or fluid at the surgery site, limited arm movement and numbness in the chest or upper arm. After surgery, some women may wish to have the breast mound rebuilt to restore its appearance in breast reconstruction surgery. Some patients may require other treatment after a mastectomy such as radiation, chemo or hormone therapy. Source: American Cancer Society Advertisement

'It needed to be done'

Ms Lange, a jujitsu world champion and martial arts teacher, said: 'I said to [the photographer] Tim "my mum is very courageous and I would love it if you would agree to do a photoshoot with us".

'Doing the photoshoot was very emotional. I was so much in awe of her courage to do that and to have battled on and felt sadness about myself with her and how it's been so difficult.

'I was feeling so much empathy for her and a strange sadness. It's not been an easy life for her; I admire her courage in continuing with life.'

Ms Lange adds her and her mother have had a challenging relationship in the past, but the photoshoot has given them a form of closer.

She said: 'We have had an interesting journey. She was a difficult woman when I was growing up and I did a lot of my own rearing.

'There was quite a lot of forgiveness; it is like this chapter is ending. It's a mother-daughter photo and it felt like completing the circle.

'I think it was a very healing thing for both of us. There's a tenderness, a rawness and a realness to the pictures.'

Despite the sadness of the photoshoot, the pair still managed to have fun.

Ms Lange said: 'We also did some shots where we put a reindeer nose on and were laughing. It showed there was still laughter and joy despite the horror of the scarring.

'The response I've had from people is that was a courageous thing to do and it needed to be done.

'I can imagine some people looking at them and turning away because they can't deal with it but the majority of people have said how powerful they are.'

Ms Sheil bared her scars alongside her daughter, who has helped care for her during treatment

Ms Lange believes the issue of breast cancer needed to be properly highlighted

Ms Sheil believes the disease will kill her, with Ms Lange 'feeling' her mother's 'imminent death'

Ms Lange has not always been close to her mother and found the photoshoot 'healing'

'It portrays the reality of the disease'

Despite her appearance, Ms Sheil had no concerns about doing the shoot, saying: 'Since I've had breast cancer I don't care about a lot of things and doing the shoot didn't worry me.

'It portrays the reality of the disease - there are so many people that go through it.'

Professional photographer Tim, 53, said he wanted to portray an image of strength, adding: 'There are a few pictures of them looking at each other and those are the most powerful because you can see the connection.

'I felt really privileged to have been part of it - looking in on these two people dealing with such a massive thing and how they cope with it.

'I have done a lot of photoshoots and that was one where you walk away thinking "I've done something good".'

Despite her appearance, Ms Sheil said showing off her body did not worry her

Ms Sheil had a breast removed in 1998 before enduring 34 rounds of radiotherapy

Yet, just one year later, the cancer returned, prompting her to have another mastectomy

Despite the seriousness of the photoshoot, the pair still managed to have fun

Ms Lange (pictured before the shoot) felt nauseous after her mother (pictured) had surgery

'Nothing can make me safe from this disease'

Ms Sheil was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998; just over a year after her son Murray died from a brain tumour at 32 years old.

She had one breast removed and underwent 34 rounds of radiotherapy, however, the cancer returned just one year later, prompting her to have another mastectomy.

Ms Sheil then went into remission for seven years before the cancer returned, leading to further rounds of radiotherapy, as well as treatment for an open wound on her chest.

The disease has now spread to Ms Sheil's bones and the grandmother-of-three, who finished her latest round of radiotherapy a couple of months ago, is certain the disease will kill her.

She said: 'The doctors haven't said it will take my life but I know it will. I feel very lucky to have lived this long.'

'I had the double mastectomy because I thought that if I had it I would be safe but that wasn't true. Nothing can make me safe from this disease.

Ms Sheil, who has been unable to work as an announcer since losing her voice, endures fortnightly bone scans and blood tests.

Recalling the first time she saw her mother after her double mastectomy, Ms Lange added: 'I'm a strong person but I remember having to run to the toilet after being overcome with nausea.

'I think going through that procedure and getting the surgery and seeing the result was very overwhelming.

'It was what she needed to do to survive.''We don't need to get taught new ways to change ourselves we need system change so that it supports both GPs and their patients.'

A GP has quit the profession to become a fashion designer, saying she felt 'broken' by long shifts, phone appointments and endured so much stress she came home 'shaking'.

Linda Thomas was a salaried GP at a practice in Bristol and quit to work as a locum, before abandoning the medical profession to be an eco-fashion designer.

She said changes left her assessing patients over the phone and pressure on appointment times meant she eventually had enough.

'I had to leave while I could still be the kind of doctor I wanted to be, and give patients the attention they deserved,' Dr Thomas said.

'If I'd stayed, I would have had to become a different type of doctor. I would be broken after a long shift.

'Sometimes I'd come home shaking. GPs are under such particular pressure - we are talking about a system that's systematically breaking down GPs.'

'We need system change that supports both GPs and patients'

Research from the University of Exeter Medical School revealed two out of five GPs in Bristol are planning to leave in the next five years.

'These are some incredibly dedicated and talented people, yet I don't know anyone who is planning to stay in general practice in the long term.

'It's about understanding that these are resilient and dedicated doctors.

'I'm of a generation where as a junior doctor we would go to work on a Saturday morning and not finish our shift until Monday evening.

'We have all made it past that point and so have had to learn ways to manage stress and tiredness but this system is now so relentless.

'We don't need to get taught new ways to change ourselves we need system change so that it supports both GPs and their patients.'

Many areas in the UK are looking at a 'severe shortfall' of GPs

The number of unfilled GP posts quadrupled between 2012 and 2014, while the numbers of GPs fell substantially.

Prof John Campbell led the research by the University of Exeter Medical School and said the report should change the way GP surgeries are run.

He added: 'Our new research is a significant study of what is driving the exodus of GPs from direct patient care.

'Policy makers need to take this on board and address these issues to retain GPs and encourage medical students to take up a career in general practice.

'Despite recent government plans to address the problem, numbers are continuing to fall.

'If we do not act now, many areas will face a severe shortfall in the number of GPs providing care for patients in their area.'A fashion stylist found sex excruciatingly painful for nearly a decade after 20 different doctors dismissed her vaginal condition as psychological.

Callista Jane Wiliams first experienced searing pain when she tried to use a tampon aged 12, which lead to years of feeling like she had been cut every time she touched herself.

When she finally worked up the courage to tell her doctor in her 20s, her symptoms were dismissed as being psychological, with one counselor later suggesting it was religious guilt for having sex before marriage.

During her mid-20s, Ms Wiliams, from San Francisco, could only endure sex with her beloved boyfriend if she was drunk, which eventually drove the couple to separate, leaving her heartbroken.

Eight years later and after seeing 20 different doctors, she was finally diagnosed with congenital neuroproliferative vestibulodynia, which causes sufferers to have around 30 times the normal amount of nerve endings in the opening of their vaginas.

After having surgery, Ms Wiliams has regained her confidence and is finally able to have a pain-free sex life.

Actress Emily Francis wrote a play on Ms Wiliams' experience after hearing her discuss it on the radio.

Callista Jane Wiliams found sex excruciatingly painful for nearly a decade after 20 different doctors dismissed her vaginal condition as psychological, even blaming religious guilt

WHAT IS CONGENITAL NEUROPROLIFERATIVE VESTIBULODYNIA? Congenital neuroproliferative vestibulodynia is pain in the small area of tissue just before the vagina's opening that has been present since birth. It is caused by too many nerve endings in the vaginal opening. Some sufferers have up to 30 times too many. Past research suggests up to 16 per cent of women in the US suffer pain during sex at some point in their lives. Congenital neuroproliferative vestibulodynia's prevalence in the UK is unknown. Women with the condition usually notice it the first time they try to insert a tampon or have intercourse. Some sufferers are prescribed topical painkillers that numb the nerves in the vagina's opening, however, many feel this does not give sufficient relief. Surgery is usually considered a last resort and involves removing a postage-stamp sized piece of tissue from the vaginal opening. It usually takes between six and eight weeks to heal after surgery. Source: Maze Women's Sexual Health Advertisement

'I want every young girl and woman to know it's not her fault'

Ms Wiliams, whose condition made her depressed and drove her apart from her parents, told the BBC: 'What I want the most in the whole world, is for young women who are up against this to know that there is a language for their issue, it's not some mysterious, imagined thing.

'I want every young girl and woman to know it's not her fault and that she isn't the only one.'

Ms Wiliams underwent a procedure that involved removing a layer of skin around her vagina's opening and replacing it with healthy cells from elsewhere.

After having the operation, which took months to heal, Callista called up a good friend and had pain-free sex for the first time in her life.

She said: 'I cried, it was so emotional and it was so beautiful.'

Ms Wiliams then went on to start a new relationship but the pair later split due to other reasons.

Having regained her confidence, Ms Wiliams is looking forward to meeting someone new.

Actress Emily Francis wrote a play on Ms Wiliams' experience after hearing her discuss it on the radio. In doing research, she found many doctors had never heard of the condition

Women see painful sex as normal

In doing research for the play, Ms Francis spoke to doctors about the condition, with one not knowing what it was and others saying they had not received much training on how to treat it.

She also found certain women involved in the play, called The Internet Was Made for Adults, which has since finished its run, accepted sex during pain as normal, particularly during their first time.

After meeting with Ms Wiliams, Ms Francis said she found her experience 'desperately sad', adding a healthy sex life should be available to all.A team of researchers believe they have discovered a way to trigger teeth regeneration which would allow them to regrow and even fix cavities.

The team from King's College, London, conducted a study last year where they showed that mice teeth could be treated with various drugs to trigger the teeth to rebuild themselves.

The treatment involves using a series of drugs to activate stem cells at the base of the tooth, called the tooth pulp.

Stem cells, which can transform into almost any other cell, then begin to regrow the parts of the teeth that have been lost to accident or decay.

Scientists have more recently replicated their results in rats, who have teeth more similar to those of humans, making it more likely that this technology will eventually work in humans.

The team are now looking at human trials in the near future.

Scientists say this could represent one of the greatest steps forward in dentistry in the last 50 years

'It was essentially a complete repair'

An early study identified the presence of the Wnt pathway in tooth pulp. This is a form of communication between cells, typically involved in self-repair around the body, for example, the brain and intestines.

Using this as a springboard, the team from King's College investigated whether the stem cells already present in tooth pulp could be triggered in any way to activate this pathway and extend the restorative abilities of teeth.

Teeth already have minor regenerative abilities: for instance, when the dentin layer, which lies beneath the hard outer layer but before the pulp, is damaged. The stem cells in the pulp quickly turn into odontoblasts to fix them.

However, if the damage is too great, for instance, if the teeth are broken or haven't been brushed in a long time, the stem cells can't do anything, which leads to cavities.

In their study last year, the scientists drilled holes into the molars of mice. They then soaked tiny sponges in various drugs, picked because they were known to stimulate the Wnt pathway, and these were placed inside the cavities.

The sponges were left for four to six weeks, after which the majority of the cavities showed some degree of healing.

This shows that the stem cells had been stimulated to heal the tooth, even when it was badly damaged.

'It was essentially a complete repair,' Professor Paul Sharpe, study co-author, said. 'You can barely see the joint where the old and new dentin meet. This could eventually be the first routine pharmaceutical treatment in dentistry.'

The images show the different levels of detine formed by the drug used. Tideglusib, which was not effective as a treatment for Alzheimar's, proved effective at stimulating tooth stem cells

The photos above show the process of administering the collagen sponge into a tooth, which is then sealed: this allows the tooth to begin the healing process

Human trials ahead

Since last year, the researchers have repeated the study on rats, because the teeth of rats are larger and closer to those of humans.

They found the treatment worked in them as well, although the results of this latest study are still to be published.

Besides that, the researchers have developed a gel that can be injected into teeth, in the hopes this will be easier to administer by dentists.

ARE TRENDY WAYS OF CLEANING YOUR TEETH EFFECTIVE, OR DANGEROUS? Top dentists reveal how trendy fads can wreak havoc with people's teeth. Despite the likes of Gisele Bundchen and the Hemsley sisters swearing by starting every morning with a refreshing glass of hot water and lemon, Dr Ben Atkins, a dentist based in Manchester and Trustee of the Oral Health Foundation, warns the drink effectively dissolves teeth and could even make them darker. While critics link fluoride to everything from dementia to diabetes, experts argue numerous studies show the mineral does not harm people's health, with free-from varieties missing out on 'the main protective ingredient'. Dr Atkins also describes the ancient Ayurvedic practice of oil pulling, which involves swishing coconut oil around the mouth, as a 'waste of time', with Dr Rhona Eskander, Best Young Dentist Winner 2016, adding it will not give you a Hollywood smile. In terms of brushing your teeth with charcoal or apple cider vinegar, both Dr Atkins and Dr Eskander add the 'natural remedies' could do more harm than good as while their acidic, abrasive consistencies may remove surface stains, they could also permanently damage enamel. Advertisement

They are now looking forward to clinical human trials.

Professor Sharpe says that these trials may still be several years away. However, he hopes that, because many of the drugs used in the study are already in use in medicine, the process of approval will be quick.

Scientists says, if they succeed, this could represent one of the greatest steps forward in dentistry in the last 50 years.

There is a small risk in the use of stem cells. Stem cells can cause uncontrolled tissue growth: for instance, there have been cases where the administering the cells in one area has lead to small brain tumours, or bone growing in the eyelids.

Contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) could be deadly this Valentine's Day, warns an expert.

Dr Tina Joshi, a lecturer in molecular microbiology at Plymouth University, spoke of the emerging threat of antibiotic resistance.

Unnecessarily dishing out the drugs is making bugs that could once be easily cured, such as gonorrhoea, become untreatable.

Antibiotic resistance, considered on par with terrorism and global warming, could kill more people than cancer in the next 30 years, she warned.

Dr Joshi said: 'Its Valentines Day and Im not telling anyone not to go and have fun.

'But beware that those dangerous liaisons might be more dangerous than initially thought if you dont use protection and understand the antimicrobial resistance threat facing all of us.'

Dr Tina Joshi, a lecturer in molecular microbiology at Plymouth University, spoke of the emerging threat of antibiotic resistance in terms of STIs

She added: 'Unprotected sex is nothing new in our society. People think "whats the worst that could happen?"

'If you get a nasty condition, you can be treated with antibiotics. Right? Not necessarily. Antibiotics are ceasing to be as effective, and imagine where wed be then

'Without antibiotics, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis, which are caused by bacteria, wouldnt be treatable.

'Even worse, STIs often go undiagnosed meaning they dont get treated until its too late.'

Her warnings follow the emergence of a drug-resistant strain of gonorrhoea that has prompted concerns across the planet.

The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning about 'super gonorrhoea' last July. It said millions of lives were at risk.

WHAT IS ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE? Antibiotics have been doled out unnecessarily by GPs and hospital staff for decades, fueling once harmless bacteria to become superbugs. The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously warned if nothing is done the world is heading for a 'post-antibiotic' era. It claimed common infections, such as chlamydia, will become killers without immediate solutions to the growing crisis. Bacteria can become drug resistant when people take incorrect doses of antibiotics or if they are given out unnecessarily. Former chief medical officer Dame Sally Davies claimed in 2016 that the threat of antibiotic resistance is as severe as terrorism. Figures estimate that superbugs will kill 10 million people each year by 2050, with patients succumbing to once harmless bugs. Around 700,000 people already die yearly due to drug-resistant infections including tuberculosis (TB), HIV and malaria across the world. Concerns have repeatedly been raised that medicine will be taken back to the 'dark ages' if antibiotics are rendered ineffective in the coming years. In addition to existing drugs becoming less effective, there have only been one or two new antibiotics developed in the last 30 years. In September, the WHO warned antibiotics are 'running out' as a report found a 'serious lack' of new drugs in the development pipeline. Without antibiotics, C-sections, cancer treatments and hip replacements will become incredibly 'risky', it was said at the time. Advertisement

At the time, just three people across the world were confirmed to have it - but a more recent report shows it has struck 50 countries.

Public Health England figures reveal that 420,000 STI diagnoses were made in 2016, according to the most recent data available.

But 'hundreds of thousands of people engage in unprotected sex', Dr Joshi warned, meaning the figure could be the tip of the iceberg.

Antibiotics have been doled out unnecessarily by GPs and hospital staff for decades, fueling once harmless bacteria to become superbugs.

The WHO has previously warned if nothing is done the world was headed for a 'post-antibiotic' era.

It claimed common infections, such as chlamydia, will become killers without immediate answers to the growing crisis.

Bacteria can become drug resistant when people take incorrect doses of antibiotics, or they are given out unnecessarily.

Chief medical officer Dame Sally Davies claimed in 2016 that the threat of antibiotic resistance is as severe as terrorism.

Figures estimate that superbugs will kill ten million people each year by 2050, with patients succumbing to once harmless bugs.

Around 700,000 people already die yearly due to drug-resistant infections including tuberculosis (TB), HIV and malaria across the world.

Concerns have repeatedly been raised that medicine will be taken back to the 'dark ages' if antibiotics are rendered ineffective in the coming years.

In addition to existing drugs becoming less effective, there have only been one or two new antibiotics developed in the last 30 years.

In September, the WHO warned antibiotics are 'running out' as a report found a 'serious lack' of new drugs in the development pipeline.

Without antibiotics, caesarean sections, cancer treatments and hip replacements would also become incredibly 'risky', it was said at the time.A mother-of-five special education teacher is on life support after contracting two flu strains - and her family fear the second was contracted in hospital.

Crystal Whitley, 35, of Mullin, Texas, was diagnosed with the flu on January 22 and given Tamiflu to treat her ailment - just four months after giving birth.

Two days after her diagnosis, Whitley's husband called 911 in panic, and she was airlifted to a hospital in Dallas where she was diagnosed with sepsis, double pneumonia, and MRSA, a staph infection that is resistant to many antibiotics.

Speaking to Daily Mail Online, distraught friends and family members of Crystal, who has two biological children and three step-children, say they're in shock as doctors try to wean her off her ventilator while fighting the deadly viruses.

Crystal Whitley, 35, contracted two strains of the flu. Pictured: Crystal, center, holding her four-month-old baby with her biological daughter sitting in front of her, her husband and his children

'She's making progress in so many ways,' Mary O'Connor, Crystal's mother, told Daily Mail Online. 'But she's still critical.'

She comes off the breathing machine during the day, but is hooked up to it at night, Christy Lewis, Crystal's friend, told Daily Mail Online.

Crystal, who had received her flu shot, gave birth four months ago and received a hysterectomy in December - procedures that can weaken the immune system.

Family members say that a week before she fell ill, one of the students at her school was sent home with the flu.

On the day she was diagnosed, Crystal was prescribed Tamiflu, an antiviral medication widely used during flu season.

The following day she became really ill and had to be quarantined in her bedroom from her four-month-old and the rest of the family.

Family and friends say Crystal is 'slowly and steadily' recovering. Pictured; Crystal in the hospital on February 11

When she began having difficulty breathing, her husband took her to the ER at Brownwood Regional Medical Center in Mullin where she was put on a ventilator.

However, doctors at Brownwood realized they didn't have enough resources to care for Crystal, so the next day she was airlifted to Baylor Scott & White in Dallas, which is about a three-hour drive.

When she arrived at Baylor, doctors diagnosed her with two strains of the flu, Type A and B, pneumonia in both her lungs, MRSA and was discovered to be highly septic.

At one point the MRSA in Crystal's bloodstream was impacting the function of her liver and kidneys, Christy said.

When her left lung collapsed twice, doctors inserted three tubes to inflate and drain fluid from the organ. They also performed a few surgeries to try and clean the infection from her lungs.

'They thought there was a pocket of infection in her lungs that the antibiotics didn't reach,' Mary told Daily Mail Online.

Crystal recently tested negative for MRSA infection after being treated with intravenous antibiotics.

'The only thing there's a problem with is her lungs now,' Christy said.

The number of people with influenza-like illness this year (in red) has climbed past every other year including the 2009 swine flu pandemic (in gray), as demonstrated in a new graph from the CDC

However, family and friends say Crystal has made a lot of progress since being admitted to the hospital three weeks ago.

'She laid on her back for a solid two weeks without lifting so much as a finger,' Mary said. 'Now she's beginning to talk a little bit.'

It's not clear how Crystal contracted the flu, but a week before her diagnosis, one of the students in her school was sent home with the virus.

Christy also said the special education teacher attended a youth fair with her daughter the weekend before she was diagnosed.

'This is like nothing I've ever seen,' Christy said. 'She did have the flu shot and she ended up contracting both strains of the flu.'

Christy also said Crystal could've contracted the virus at the hospital.

Daily Mail Online could not confirm whether or not this is true.

WHAT ARE THE FLU STRAINS HITTING THE US THIS YEAR? There are many different strains of flu circulating around the world, but four main types are being seen, or are set to emerge, in America this winter. The vaccine is 34 percent effective against the H3N2 strain, however it will offer more protection from the new strains, H1N1 and B viruses, emerging in the next few weeks. H3N2 - Dubbed 'Aussie flu' after it struck Australia hard last winter, this strain is more likely to affect the elderly, who do not respond well to the current vaccine. This is one of the most common strains seen so far this winter. H1N1 - This strain  known as 'swine flu' - is generally more likely to hit children, who respond well to vaccination. This has been seen nearly as often as H3N2 so far this year. In the past it was only commonly caught from pigs, but that changed in 2009 when it started spreading rapidly among humans in a major global pandemic. B / Yamagata - This is known as 'Japanese flu'. Only people who received the 'four strain' vaccine - which is being slowly rolled out after it was introduced for the first time this winter - are protected against the Yamagata strain. Those who received the normal 'three strain' vaccine are not protected. B / Victoria - This strain is vaccinated against in the normal 'three strain' vaccine, but has hardly appeared so far this winter, with just four confirmed cases. Advertisement

However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said one in 25 patients has at least one healthcare-associated infection  illnesses patients get while receiving medical treatment in a healthcare facility.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Crystal and her family.

This flu season is on track to becoming one of the worst in recent history, according to the CDC.

Texas is one of the worst-affected states by this year's flu outbreak, particularly Dallas and Fort Worth, which are in the top 10 metro areas for flu death rates.

Just last week, the virus killed 38-year-old Heather Holland, who was prescribed Tamiflu but declined taking it because it was too expensive.

Two Texas men diagnosed with the flu in Texas had to have their fingers and toes amputated.

The dominant H3N2 strain, dubbed the 'Aussie flu', is this flu season's predominant virus, and the flu vaccine is only 34 percent effective against this particular strain.

However, CDC officials are urging everyone to get their flu shot and say it is not too late as the vaccine is even more effective against the H1N1 and B viruses, which killed Aaron.

This year's flu is set to becoming one of the worst in recent history and already has the highest rate of hospitalizations than any other year.

On Friday, Dr Dan Jernigan, director of the CDC's Influenza Division, said that this is an unusual pattern for the flu as health officials expected activity to have already reached its peak at this time - but it continues to get worse.

The virus is widespread in 48 states, including Texas and Alabama, after Oregon dropped down to regional level to join Hawaii.

Health officials are warning everyone to take extra precaution to prevent the spread of the flu by washing your hands regularly and avoiding contact with everyone.Ask 14-year-old Pippa Marchant to describe the machine that washes clothes and she might pause, then say: The shaky-shaky thing.

She knows what it is really called, but she cant find the word. Because Pippa has a condition called auditory processing disorder, or APD.

APD is essentially a problem with how the brain interprets sound. It may explain why some people struggle to hear speech in a noisy restaurant and could even be the reason your spouse seems to ignore you.

Listen up: Auditory processing disorder is a problem with how the brain interprets sound

People with APD find it hard to distinguish between very similar words or sounds. Unlike with typical hearing loss, in APD sounds reach the brain  people with the condition hear them, but find it difficult to process them. This means APD is hard to diagnose, as standard hearing tests rarely pick it up.

Im sure there are thousands of children and adults in the UK who have not been correctly diagnosed, says Dr Ralph Holme, director of biomedical research at Action on Hearing Loss.

CHILDREN CAN BE MISDIAGNOSED

In cases where an adult has it but was never diagnosed, people might think of them as rude or unresponsive. Family members may complain about being ignored while, say experts, the person with APD may become anxious or even depressed.

At nursery, while other children played together, Pippa chose to play alone. At first, her mother Jane, 46, whose son has autism, wondered if she had it too. But there was something else.

She never seemed to follow instructions, says Jane, who has two older children aged 19 and 15, and lives with her husband Bill, 44, in Hemel Hempstead. She couldnt seem to understand people and, although she could speak a little, her speech was muddled so people would ask her to repeat herself.

When Pippa was four, Jane took her for a hearing test. The GP diagnosed glue ear and Pippa was given grommets  tubes to drain excess fluid.

But by the age of five, Pippa still wasnt really talking, so doctors suggested speech therapy. Aged eight Pippa still muddled st and sl sounds, stot would be spot and change clothes became chase clothes.

School proved difficult. She couldnt sit still during carpet time and again couldnt follow instructions, Jane says.

This behaviour, according to experts, can lead to children being labelled naughty or as having learning difficulties.

Misinterpreted: The behaviour associated with APD can, according to experts, lead to children being labelled naughty or as having learning difficulties

APD is not a learning difficulty, but it causes them, explains Alyson Mountjoy, co-founder of APD Support UK, a support group. And it has lifelong implications, affecting education, relationships, work and self-esteem.

Specialists have known about APD for over 40 years, however it is not well understood. It can affect people in different ways, with some experiencing short-term memory problems, while others may need longer to respond to verbal instructions. Some children, although not all, have delayed speech.

The biggest hurdle is that hearing tests do not pick it up.

Standard hearing tests assess whether patients can hear a pure tone at a range of pitches or not and what is the softest noise they can hear, explains Professor Doris-Eva Bamiou, a specialist in audiovestibular medicine and an honorary consultant at Great Ormond Street Hospital, which runs one of the few NHS APD clinics.

These are simple tests, so theyre not enough to identify sound processing in the brain.

A NEW TEST ON THE HORIZON

Professor Bamiou says a few tests have been developed in recent years to try to detect APD, such as requiring the child to listen to a variety of sounds and to respond either verbally or by pushing a button. Electrodes attached to the head to record brain activity can also measure the auditory systems response.

But there is still no gold standard way of testing for APD, instead an assessment is made based on different measures, not just hearing tests.

And as a result, children are missing out on being diagnosed, adds Dr Holme.

He hopes that a new test being developed by researchers at University College London (UCL), funded by Action on Hearing Loss, will make diagnosis more straightforward.

As Stuart Rosen, a professor of speech and hearing science at UCL, who is leading the research, explains: It involves listening to speech that is switched between the ears, with a distracting message played at the same time.

For some children who are suspected of having APD, we think its very likely the difficulty they have involves the ability to focus attention on one talker while ignoring the distracting speech from someone else.

For other children, it may be that a developmental language disorder is an important factor, or even the dominant one.

PROGRESS IN LEAPS AND BOUNDS

after pushing for help for years, Jane took Pippa, then 11, to see an NHS audiologist, who finally diagnosed APD.

Professor Bamiou says there are things that make it easier for children, such as minimising background noise, for example from the TV, sitting near the front of class, asking the teacher to back up verbal instructions with written ones.

Now at secondary school, Pippa still has trouble finding the right words, but she has come on leaps and bounds.

In her own eloquent way, Pippa describes her condition as like fishing for words in a fishbowl. The words are like fish and sometimes you catch the right word, sometimes you catch the wrong word and other times the word slips away.

Last year she was also diagnosed with autism and ADHD  disorders that, along with dyslexia, often run alongside APD. But its important APD is identified and symptoms are not attributed to other difficulties.

As Jane says: I think if Pippa had been diagnosed with autism first, we might never have got a diagnosis for APD, which is by far the biggest hurdle for her.

For support regarding APD visit: https://apdsupportuk.yolasite.com/Under-siege engineering firm GKN is set to reveal a turnaround plan this week as bosses try to fight off a hostile takeover.

In a crucial appeal, the British company is expected to pledge huge cash returns in a bid to win over shareholders.

These would be funded by cost cutting and the sale of its powder metallurgy arm, which uses powders to produce compacted metals for parts, and could fetch as much as 2bn.

On the defence: GKN makes parts for the Black Hawk, Chinook and Apache helicopters, as well as the F-35 jet fighter

GKNs board hopes this will see off a 7.4bn bid for the business by turnaround specialist Melrose, which they are urging shareholders to reject.

The bid is also being scrutinised by both the UK and US governments, with a senior US congressman wading in to provide an unexpected boost to GKN.

House Republican Neal Dunn has urged the Committee on Foreign Investment to block Melroses bid over fears it would threaten US national security.

GKN, which is currently building an aerospace facility in Dunns Florida district, makes parts for the Black Hawk, Chinook and Apache helicopters, as well as the F-35 jet fighter and other secret US Air Force projects.

Dunn said Melroses plan to sell the business within three to five years and possibly break it up was of serious concern.

In a letter to the committee, Dunn added: GKN is a major US defence contractor. Melrose has no track record in defence contracting or relevant high technology businesses.

In addition to concerns over who may ultimately acquire GKN, Melroses business strategy will undermine long-term investments in research and development and secure supply chains, which are critical to the major defence platforms GKN currently supplies.

Last night Labour MP Jack Dromey, whose Birmingham constituency is where GKN is based, said: Transatlantic concern over the hostile takeover is growing.

Warning: Republican congressman Neal Dunn

Melrose is facing tough questioning in America and here in Britain ministers have the power to intervene. They should put the British national interest first and block this takeover on grounds of defence and national security.

Last week Prime Minister Theresa May said government officials were watching the bid closely and would act in the national interest.

A spokesman for Melrose declined to comment.

The intervention comes before GKNs make-or-break plan is due to be published on Thursday. The document will be the centrepiece of efforts to convince shareholders to reject Melroses offer.

The turnaround specialist swooped on GKN after the Redditch-based company was left vulnerable by a profit warning, sparked by accounting problems at its aerospace division.

The profit alert led to the departure of the then incoming chief executive Kevin Cummings who was the former head of the aerospace division. It meant GKN was without a boss until Anne Stevens was appointed in January.

Stevens and the board will this week pledge to sell GKNs powder metallurgy business and return cash to investors. They are also expected to detail how they intend to transform the firms fortunes and make savings.

What does GKN make? Parts including electrical wiring, wing flaps, cockpit canopy and engine components for Lockheed Martins F-35 fighter jets, which will form the backbone of the future US fighter fleet. It also supplies components for the Chinook, Apache and Blackhawk helicopters, as well as the V-22 tiltrotor military aircraft. Other US projects GKN is involved with include development of the B-21 bomber aircraft, a long-range stealth plane that is expected to come into service in 2025.

Melrose said it would offload the powder metallurgy arm in a few years, after making it more profitable, rather than selling it immediately. It added: If these reports are correct, then it is an indication that GKNs management team is admitting they are not equipped to realise the full value of that business.

Shareholder approval will be needed for a sale and we think GKN shareholders will want to see value realised for them and not for another bidder.

GKN declined to comment.Media mogul Rupert Murdoch has offered protections for Sky News in a bid to get his companys 11.7bn takeover of Sky over the finishing line.

The firewall proposals would give the channel an editorial board to protect its independence and guarantee funding for at least five years.

It comes after regulators raised concerns that 21st Century Foxs takeover of Sky would give the Murdoch family, which controls Fox, too much sway over the UK media.

Offer: Rupert Murdoch's firewall proposals would give Sky News an editorial board to protect its independence

Murdoch, 86, also owns newspapers The Sun, The Times and The Sunday Times.

The Competition & Markets Authority last month suggested Sky News would need to be either spun off or given added protections in order for Skys takeover to go ahead. It sparked fears that the pioneering news channel could be shut down.

But in documents published yesterday by the regulator, Fox said it would promise to protect Sky News editorial independence. In its response to the CMA, Fox said: The combined effect of the proposed firewall remedies is that there could be no circumstances in which, post-transaction, the Murdoch family trust or members of the Murdoch family could influence, whether directly or indirectly, the editorial line of Sky News.

Sky, in a separate submission, added: The remedies proposed by 21st Century Fox would be an effective and comprehensive solution to any potential concerns arising from the transaction.

Bosses at Fox will be hoping the proposals draw a line under the CMAs concerns about the Sky takeover. The deal was proposed in 2016 but regulators and politicians have wrangled over whether to approve it. But efforts to push it through have become more urgent at Fox since the company itself agreed to be taken over by Disney. That includes Foxs holding in Sky, which Disney boss Bob Iger has described as a crown jewel.

The regulator has said its concerns would fall away if Sky was owned by Disney.It was the siege that shook America: a 51-day standoff between cult leader David Koresh and the Clinton administration that ended in the deaths of 76 men, women and children.

Now the story of the 1993 showdown has been turned into a miniseries starring Taylor Kitsch in Paramount Network's Waco, as the program charts the progress of the siege and its bloody aftermath. A new A&E documentary has also been released.

But one former Branch Davidian won't be watching either: Roger Haldeman, Koresh's half-brother who left Mt Carmel just two weeks before the botched ATF raid that triggered the standoff.

A 52-year-old drifter from Chandler, Texas, Haldeman has spent much of the past 25 years in jail on charges ranging from drug possession to stealing a digger.

But speaking out for the first time to DailyMailTV, he insists that Koresh was 'not a monster' and says he still misses the older brother who he once idolized.

Scroll down for video

David Koresh (pictured), 33, was the Branch Davidian cult leader in Waco, Texas, and was known for taking several wives, some as young as 12 years old

Now, Roger Haldeman (pictured), Koresh's half-brother who left the compound just two weeks before the botched ATF raid, has spoken out for the first time to DailyMailTV, saying that the FBI had asked him to persuade Koresh into surrendering

A 51-day standoff between the Koresh's cult and the Clinton administration happened in early 1993, when the ATF raided the compound because Koresh was stockpiling guns

The government agency attempted to break into the compound again in April 1993, but the cult set the compound on fire and 76 men, women and children died in the blaze

Now the story of the 1993 showdown has been turned into a docudrama starring Taylor Kitsch (pictured in TV still) in Paramount Network's miniseries Waco, as Koresh charts the progress of the siege and its bloody aftermath

'The first movie they made that starred Tim Daly as David - I looked at it and I was like, he looks like David but when he spoke, he didn't have near the authority or the delivery David had,' Haldeman told DailyMailTV.

'I won't watch this new one. I'm just not interested because I've been there, I was part of it, I knew what it was about.'

The facts of the siege are well known. On February 28, 1993, an ATF team stormed Koresh's Mt Carmel complex in Waco, Texas, after being tipped off about a large weapons stockpile and the self-proclaimed prophet's penchant for taking girls as young as 12 as his 'wives'.

In the ensuing gun battle, six Branch Davidians died alongside four ATF agents  setting the scene for a standoff that would drag on for almost two months and end with the deaths of nearly all inside.

Haldeman, who had moved into an apartment in Waco shortly before the botched first raid, heard about it through the TV like everyone else.

Later, he says he was asked to try to persuade Koresh to come out by the FBI but told them that he knew his brother would never give in.

Haldeman recalled: 'I said to them, ain't nobody going to convince him to come out because he knows what he's doing and that's what happened.

'Jesus showed him that he was going to die for them [the Branch Davidians] and in the Bible, it says, you die by the sword. He lived in his world and in his world, it's not a sword, it's an AR-15.'

The bloody  and very public - final chapter of Koresh's life was a world away from his quiet childhood in Garland, Texas.

Koresh (pictured aged 14) turned to religion sometime in his late teens or early 20s after falling in love and impregnating a pastor's daughter, Haldeman said. He added: 'Her dad didn't approve of him and she got pregnant. He had a nervous breakdown. That's what prompted him to get into that stuff'

Born in August 1959 to 14-year-old runaway Bonnie Sue Clark and her older boyfriend Bobby Wayne Howell, Koresh's early years were spent in the care of his grandmother Erline.

When he was seven, Bonnie Sue remarried and Koresh went to live with his mother and her new husband, bartender turned carpenter Roy Haldeman.

The same year, Bonnie Sue gave birth to her second child, Roger, who grew up idolizing his older brother  even though his own father didn't think quite so highly of Koresh.

'Like any other typical older brother, I guess he wanted to be dominant, a bully to some extent,' Haldeman told DailyMailTV.

'He was alright. I always thought he was real cool. He was always playing music. He was a very looked up to kind of guy so naturally you want to be around him. Very charismatic.

'I always thought he would have been a rock star and I would have been his roadie. That's what I thought he would have done more than likely.'

He added: 'He had some resentment because my dad was pretty rough on him. He wasn't his kid. I got treated better than he did.'

Haldeman was 13 years old when a previously uninterested Koresh found religion  the result of a love affair with a pastor's daughter gone wrong.

'That was what drove him in, that was what drove him into all that [religion],' he said. 'He really, really fell in love with her.

'Her dad didn't approve of him and she got pregnant. He had a nervous breakdown. It's not a secret or nothing. That's what prompted him to get into that stuff.'

Haldeman said: 'Jesus showed him that he was going to die for them [the Branch Davidians] and in the Bible, it says, you die by the sword. He lived in his world and in his world, it's not a sword, it's an AR-15.' Pictured: Koresh in 1981 at his cult's compound

Koresh kept a harem of young wives. Sherri Jewell (pictured) joined the Branch Davidian cult in the mid 1980s, married Koresh and conspired to force her preteen daughter Kiri to marry him

Koresh is thought to have fathered at least a dozen children with his harem. Pictured: Koresh's first wife Rachel and his mother Bonnie Haldeman with two of his children, Cyrus and Star

At the same time, Koresh's family relocated to a farm in the small town of Chandler, 94 miles east of Dallas.

Set back off a country road close to Lake Palestine, the new house was remote and far from prying eyes. Haldeman says he ran wild. Koresh, meanwhile, would disappear for days at a time to pray.

'If he saw you coming, he was going to try and preach at you,' he recalled. 'He would disappear to pray for days. 24 hours at a time.'

In 1981, Koresh joined the Branch Davidians  an offshoot of the Seventh Day Adventists  moving into their Waco compound initially as a handyman.

By 1988, when Haldeman was sent to join him after completing his first jail term, Koresh was leader and in total control of every aspect of his acolytes' lives.

'It was a structured life, no doubt. Everyone ate together, there was no denying what David said  everything he said, went,' he told DailyMailTV.

'But everything you did there was good for you. I learned some of the best things in life there. Everyone ate together as a family, I got a lot of help.

'It was institutionalized but at the end of the day, you're there to learn. Brother or no brother, I listened and paid attention.'

Despite his relationship with Koresh, Haldeman says the self-proclaimed prophet became increasingly remote as the years went on.

'Everybody wanted his undying attention, he was that kind of guy,' Haldeman said. 'It was hard to approach him and get one on ones.'

On February 28, 1993, an ATF team stormed Koresh's Mt Carmel complex in Waco, Texas, after being tipped off about a large weapons stockpile and the self-proclaimed prophet's penchant for taking girls as young as 12 as his 'wives'

Although he claims not to have known about the Branch Davidians' arsenal, Haldeman did know about the 'House of David'  Koresh's harem which was kept secret at first

The Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas, is shown engulfed by flames in this April 20, 1993, file photo. In the blaze, 76 men, women and children died, including Koresh

Texas Rangers, FBI & ATF agents gathering evidence fr. ruins of Branch Davidian compound burnt during siege of David Koresh-led cult. Red flags were put where bodies were found

Although he claims not to have known about the Branch Davidians' arsenal, Haldeman did know about the 'House of David'  Koresh's harem which was kept secret at first.

Among the women were Rachel Jones, his first wife, and her younger sister Michelle who was just 12 years old when Koresh first took her to bed.

Haldeman says that while he was fine with the polygamy, he became uneasy later after realizing how young some of the girls were  and says he disliked his brother's habit of taking other men's wives.

But he still defended Koresh, telling DailyMailTV: 'The majority of them weren't kids or wanted to be there.

'Out in the world, it's very common [to marry young]  just saying. There was Rachel's sister. But she was very mature. Very mature and very sober.

'And there were a couple of girls who were 16, 17 very, very pretty. But he didn't take the 16 and 17-year-old's  why? Because they were very immature, very little girly, not real serious.

'I don't think it was just lust. I think there was more to it than he just wanted a lot of women. There was a purpose to it, there was a mission.'

Koresh is thought to have fathered at least a dozen children with his harem, nearly all of whom died alongside him on April 19, 1993 after FBI and ATF agents mounted a second raid  only for the Branch Davidians to set the compound on fire.

'That was pretty rough,' Haldeman said. 'There was a school bus under there with fire proofing for his wives and babies but they basically just baked to death. That's hard for me.'

Haldeman (pictured) says that while he was fine with the polygamy, he became uneasy later after realizing how young some of the girls were  and says he disliked his brother's habit of taking other men's wives

In 1981, Koresh joined the Branch Davidians  an offshoot of the Seventh Day Adventists  moving into their Waco compound initially as a handyman. By 1988, Koresh was leader and in total control of every aspect of his acolytes' lives

In his horror at what happened, he says he turned to drugs to 'numb' the pain and for many years, didn't know how to react.

Much of the intervening quarter century has been spent in jail, with Haldeman most recently convicted of grand theft and sentenced to 15 years inside. He was released, after serving less than five, in November 2016.

Friends in Chandler say he is still reluctant to discuss the siege with them and doesn't like to draw attention to his relationship with Koresh.

David Coleman, 66, who lives close to Haldeman in the same shabby trailer park on the banks of Lake Palestine said:

'He's a nice guy but doesn't really talk about David ever. He likes to keep it kind of quiet. Not too many people round here know he was his brother, you see.'

Little now remains of Haldeman's family with his mother, father and brother all buried together in a quiet cemetery in the nearby town of Tyler.

The family house no longer exists either: destroyed by a fire in 2010 a year after Bonnie Sue was stabbed to death by her schizophrenic sister Beverley.

While Haldeman does have a 13-year-old daughter named Faith, she lives 159 miles away with her mother Ruth, 57, who is reluctant for her to be told anything about her family history.

As a result, he says he hasn't spoken to her for a year, even though he would like to.

But while reluctant to discuss Koresh with friends, Haldeman says he does miss his brother. 'He wasn't a monster,' he insisted.

'He was just teaching righteousness from the word of God and he wasn't a monster at all. He was teaching truth. Good things.

'Wouldn't you miss him if it were your brother? Anybody would miss their brother. I miss him a lot. I miss him very much.'Chinese workers are constructing an impressive railroad bridge in an area that has been considered a 'no-go zone' for bridge builders.

The 1.2 billion Pingtan Strait Railroad Bridge spans across the extremely rough sea off the coast of south-east China, a region that has apparently seen the mysterious disappearances of many jets and boats and is dubbed the 'Bermuda Triangle of Asia'.

Chinese engineers, who started on the project in 2013, are confident that they could complete the colossal traffic link next year. And not only that, they have planned to run high-speed trains above the notoriously choppy waters.

Mission impossible: Chinese workers are building a high-speed railway bridge (pictured) off the coast of south-east China, which is a 'no-go zone' for bridge builders due to high winds

Monster machines: China has built a team of impressive drillships and cranes for the bridge. One of then, the 'Bridge Seagull' crane vessel, is pictured lifting a 1,350-tonne steel beam

The mammoth Pingtan Strait Railroad Bridge connects Pingtan Island and its nearby islets to the mainland of Fujian Province.

The marvelous engineer feat is a project of superlatives.

According to stats provided by Chinese state media, the two-level structure is a whopping 11 kilometres long (6.8 miles) - 45 times longer than the Tower Bridge in London, or six times longer than the Brooklyn Bridge in New York.

To build the entire bridge, workers will need to use 300,000 tonnes of steel and 2,660,000 cement - enough for building eight Burj Khalifa towers in Dubai, the world's tallest skyscraper.

Set to have an eight-lane highway on the top and a high-speed railway at the bottom, the two-level structure would be the first railroad bridge in China built over the sea and is designed to support bullet trains travelling as fast as 200/kmh (124/mph).

The construction conditions, however, are unprecedentedly challenging.

Impressive traffic link: Once the Pingtan bridge is complete in 2019, the Pingtan Island and the outlying islands would be connected to the mainland of Fujian Province via high-speed railway

Fan Lilong, the chief engineer of the bridge, told China Central Television Station that Pingtan bridge was the most challenging project he had undertaken in his 20 years of experience

The Pingtan strait, a part of Taiwan Strait, is infamous for its high winds. For more than 300 days a year, strong gusts blowing as quickly as 13.8 metres per second (30 miles per hour) create towering waves as tall as 10 storeys.

The underwater drilling machines will have to withstand immense pressure up to 87 tonnes created by the ocean currents.

Fan Lilong, the chief engineer of the bridge, told China Central Television Station that Pingtan bridge was the most challenging project he had undertaken in his 20 years of experience.

Mr Fan said: 'Pingtan Strait Railroad Bridge is the most difficult railroad bridge that is being built in the entire world.'

He said drilling pillars into the sea rock was the hardest of all.

'I was trying to think of a solution even when I was dreaming. It seemed impossible - like putting a nail into a stone.'

Apparently, the stretch of water is also extremely dangerous.

The disappearance of 85 ships in the area in 2016 sparked speculation that the waters off southern China, Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines could be a new Bermuda Triangle

Chief engineer Mr Fan said the most challenging part of the project was to drill pillars into the hard rock on the seabed under immense underwater pressure created by the ocean currents

This picture taken in 2015 shows one of the drillships putting a pillar into the seabed. The workers successfully laid the foundation of the bridge last November with 1,895 pillars

Not far from the bridge are Penghu Islands, a Taiwanese archipelago which sparked the Bermuda horror in 2008 after multiple commercial and military aircraft had mysteriously crashed, said an earlier report.

After 85 freight and passenger ships went missing in a small stretch near China in 2016, theories emerged suggesting the waters off southern China, Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines could be a new Bermuda Triangle, according to express.co.uk.

Despite all, the Chinese are determined to tame the tempests.

In order to conquer the impossible maritime conditions, Chinese engineers designed a team of monster bridge-building machines for workers to construct the Pingtan bridge.

The Pingtan strait, a part of Taiwan Strait, is infamous for its high winds. For more than 300 days a year, strong gusts blowing as quickly as 13.8m/s create waves as tall as 10 storeys

When the bridge complete next year, bullet trains would be able to whiz above the choppy waters, bringing residents of the remote islands to the mainland of Fujian Province (file photo)

They include 'Sea Power 801', a powerful drillship that could drill into hard seabed with precision; 'Bridge Seagull', a crane vessel that could lift up a maximum load of 3,600 tonnes - or seven elephants; as well as tower cranes that could resistant tornados.

Commenting on his incredible fleet of equipment, a proud Mr Fan said: 'All of the machines are made in China. Nowadays, as long as we want, we could build any kind of machines.'

Last November, Chinese state media announced that they successfully laid the foundation of Pingtan bridge - after drilling 1,895 pillars into the ocean.

Pingtan bridge is a part of the 2.6 million Fuping Railway Line, a new member of China's fast-growing railway network that covers 88 kilometres (54 miles).

In the past 20 years, the length of China's railway lines has nearly doubled, growing from 66,000 kilometres (41,000 miles) to 127,000 kilometres (78 miles).

China is also the country with the most railway bridges in the world.

The country's workers have built over 60,000 railway bridges.In scenes reminiscent of the Cold-War era, Russia and Estonia swapped spies on a snow-covered bridge on the border between the two countries.

In tense footage, Estonian Raivo Susi is seen being exchanged for Russian Artern Zintsenko at a border crossing in southeast Estonia.

The two nations had agreed to issue mutual presidential pardons to the men arrested on charges of espionage.

Bridge of Spies: Estonian Raivo Susi, second left, and Russian Artern Zintsenko, second right, are seen during a prisoner exchange, at the Koidula border in southeastern Estonia

Estonia's Internal Security Service described Raivo Susi, an Estonian found guilty of espionage and sentenced to 12 years in a high security prison in Russia, as an 'entrepreneur'.

'Estonia extradited to Russia a spy who committed a crime here and the Estonian entrepreneur was able to return to his loved ones after a long retention in Russia,' said a spokesperson for Estonia's security service.

'And it is clear, Estonian counterintelligence had to take action over such obvious Russian spying in Estonia.'

Susi was arrested at a Moscow airport in February 2016 on espionage charges related to his alleged actions from 2004 to 2007.

He was sentenced last year to 12 years in a remote work camp, told Radio Free Europe.

Susi, who co-owns two companies involved in the sale and repair of aircrafts, had been on his way to a Central Asian country.

Estonian Raivo Susi and Russian Artern Zintsenko look ecstatic as they return home

Russian national Zinchenko was sentenced to five years in prison by a court in Tallinn last year, after being convicted of spying on behalf of Russian military intelligence.

He was found guilty of gathering and transmitting intelligence that compromised the former Soviet country's national security.

This is not the first exchange between the two nations.

In 2015, Russia freed Estonian officer Eston Kohver, who had been sentence to 15 years imprisonment on espionage and other charges.

He spent nearly 13 months in a number of Russian prisons before his eventual release.

In exchange, Tallinn freed Aleksei Dressen, a former Estonian security official serving 16 years after he was found to have been spying for Moscow.Saudi Arabia's Ritz-Carlton Hotel has reopened after three months of being used to hold tycoons and princes during an anti-corruption purge.

The gates of the luxury hotel in the capital Riyadh had been shut and patrolled by royal guards since November while princes, politicians and tycoons were being interrogated inside.

But detainees were removed from the building two weeks ago after cutting deals or being exonerated and guests have now started to return.

A Ritz-Carlton Hotel converted into a prison for members of Saudi Arabia's elite during an anti-corruption purge has reopened, it has emerged

The gates of the luxury hotel in the capital Riyadh had been shut and patrolled by royal guards since November while princes, politicians and tycoons were interrogated inside.Pictures show how the building is now back open for business

Imprisoned in luxury: This picture, obtained by DailyMail.com in the days after the round-up, shows how 11 princes and billionaires were being held in the Riyadh Ritz Carlton

On Sunday, a handful of smart-suited businessmen, forced to decamp to other hotels since November, returned to the Ritz, used by U.S. President Donald Trump during his state visit last year.

Staff welcomed back guests with Arabic coffee and dates while liveried workers milled around under the ornate chandeliers of the hotel lobby, greeting a trickle of arrivals as they checked into rooms ranging from 2,489 riyals ($664) a night.

The polite welcome was a far cry from the scene on November 4 when police cars surrounded the five-star hotel and its imposing gates clamped shut as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered the detention of princes, ministers and tycoons, in a campaign that sent shock waves through business circles.

'It's an honour (to be back),' said one foreign consultant as he waited for a luxury car to take him to work.

He said the purge had not left any trace on the 492-room hotel.

'You forget about it as soon as you're in your room and you get lost in your own bubble.'

The hotel's executive chef has created a new menu this week for its restaurants, with a 'grand buffet' planned next weekend around its large indoor swimming pool, the local Arab News daily reported.

Among the most high-profile occupants during the anti-corruption campaign were global investor Prince Alwaleed bin Talal (pictured)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spearheaded the anti-graft purge that has rocked the Saudi elite but has denied it is part of power grab in the kingdom

Managers declined an interview request, but the company confirmed in a statement that the hotel had 'resumed normal business operations as of today'.

Among the most high-profile occupants during the anti-corruption campaign were global investor Prince Alwaleed bin Talal - dubbed the Warren Buffett of Saudi Arabia- and Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, once seen as a leading contender for the throne.

Prince Miteb was freed after agreeing to pay over $1 billion, a Saudi official told Reuters.

Prince Alwaleed maintained his innocence of any corruption in a Reuters interview hours before his release.

A senior Saudi official later said he was freed after reaching a financial settlement, without detailing the terms.

On Sunday, a handful of smart-suited businessmen, forced to decamp to other hotels since November, returned to the Ritz, which was where U.S. President Donald Trump stayed during his state visit last year

The attorney general has said the government had arranged to seize more than $106 billion through such agreements, an assertion Reuters has been unable to verify.

Critics decried the campaign as a shakedown and power play by 32-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is aiming to overhaul the way the deeply conservative kingdom is run and wean it off dependence on oil revenues.

Ten days before the purge began, the Ritz hosted an international business conference where Prince Mohammed spoke onstage and snapped selfies with admirers. Some participants later ended up as detainees.

In the absence of more information, speculation ran wild about what was happening inside the Ritz. The authorities denied rumours of torture and attempted suicides.

The attorney general has said 56 people remain in custody.

They are believed to have been moved to prison after refusing to admit wrongdoing and may end up in court.

Ahmed al-Safer, a Yemeni-American businessman who regularly stays at the Ritz, stopped in on Sunday to have tea with friends.

Asked if the purge had affected the hotel's reputation, he said: 'Right now it's famous. Everyone will visit just to take a picture.'The recovery of a French nun who suffered a back problem that had left her barely able to walk for 40 years and claimed to have been cured by a pilgrimage, has been declared a 'divine miracle'.

Sister Bernadette Moriau, 79, visited the holy spring of Lourdes, southwest France, in 2008, seeking a cure to her chronic sciatica or pinched spinal nerve.

Sister Bernadette's problem disappeared after her pilgrimage, an event which has now been recognised as the 70th miracle at France's fabled shrine of Lourdes.

Cured: Sister Bernadette Moriau, 79, visited the holy spring of Lourdes in July 2008, after which her chronic sciatica was 'cured' - an event which is now being declared a divine miracle

Sister Bernadette, who was first diagnosed with her condition aged 27, had undergone four operations on her spinal column between 1968 and 1975 and was declared a full invalid in 1980.

One foot was permanently twisted, requiring her to wear a brace and use a wheelchair. She took what she said were significant doses of morphine for pain.

"She experienced an unusual feeling of relaxation and heat in the whole of her body (and) heard a voice telling her to take off her equipment, the corset and the leg brace," said a statement from her Catholic parish in Beauvais in the north of France.

After further examinations by doctors and three meetings of church figures in Lourdes, the medical committee in the town confirmed that Moriau's recovery could not be explained scientifically, the statement said.

Pilgrims queue to visit the grotto at Lourdes, southwestern France (stock image)

'Sister Bernadette Moriau now has a perfectly normal life,' the committee's president Alessandro de Franciscis told AFP.

'She is in very good health and herself visits the sick on a regular basis.'

Lourdes is one of the most revered sites for the world's 1.2 billion Catholics because the town is said to be where the Virgin Mary appeared to a peasant girl in a grotto.

The water from a spring in the Grotto of Massabielle is believed to have curative powers that attract pilgrims from around the world.

A press conference will be held Tuesday in Beauvais featuring Sister Bernadette, De Franciscis and the bishop of the local diocese, Jacques Benoit-Gonnin.Bullied children in south-west Sydney received a special visit from more than 100 people driving souped-up cars and expensive motorcycles on Sunday.

The massive group, which included tattooed and burly-looking motorcycle riders, arrived at each boy's home, where eight-year-old George and 11-year-old Brock were each applauded and taken for a ride on their bikes.

Hearts of Gold founder Sharad told Daily Mail Australia the boys felt 'loved and appreciated'.

Scroll down for video

More than 100 car and motorbike enthusiasts turned up at the homes of two young boys who had been the victims of bullying on Sunday

George, eight, and Brock, 11, were both greeted at their homes and allowed to sit on and go for a ride on motorcycles

'Just a little bit of attention can do so much [for these kids],' he said.

'You've got people with cars and bikes, tatted up, all saying "hi George, hi George" - he was going around hugging people.'

When the group turned up at Brock's home in Mount Annan, the primary school student burst into tears. Later, he told attendees it was the 'best day of my life'.

Sharad began using cars and bikes to combat bullying in his local area last year.

He organised for children with autism who had not been included in school events or could not afford transport to their formals to hitch a ride in vintage or custom cars, owned by kindhearted residents.

Afterwards, he was approached by other parents, who asked if he could do something similar for their younger children who were being bullied at school.

Children who attended George's school also turned up to the event with their parents, and organiser Sharad (left) said he went to school on Monday with 'five new friends'

Brock (left), 11, cried of happiness when the group arrived at his home in Mount Annan, and later said it was 'the best day of his life'

Originally, Sharad had just expected to arrive at each boy's home with a few friends - but when the invitation was made public, hundreds wanted to help.

'Most importantly we wanted the children and families and all victims of bullying to know they are loved and respected,' he said.

'We want them to know there is a supportive community behind them and that bullying is not okay.'

The Sydney man explained there was an even bigger benefit to Sunday's good deed.

The event was initially intended to be attended by just Sharad and a few of his friends, but within days of organising it, more than a hundred people had said they wanted to come and support George (pictured) and Brock

Because the event was attended by so many locals - and their families - some of the children who went along knew George.

'There were kids there in his class - he will go to school today with five new friends,' Sharad said.

'[These events are] purely about the kids, but we all got a kick out of it.'

Sharad is hoping to make his Cruise Against Bullying a monthly event, and visit more areas around Sydney.A married senior official in President Obama's Department of Education plead guilty to attempted voyeurism and resigned for following women on the DC Metro and taking pictures up their skirts, DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal.

William Mendoza, 42, the former executive director of the White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education, stepped down after he was arrested and charged in November, 2016, for the vile acts.

Mendoza, who earned $140,000 a year as a policy advisor in Obama's White House, tried to take photos and videos up women's skirts at least four times on his government-issued iPhones in July 2016 without their consent, according to Department of Education documents.

He was also allegedly caught looking at footage, apparently filmed in secret, of a woman in her underwear getting changed in a dressing room. It is not known if he recorded the video himself.

When he took the indecent photos, he was supposed to be at work and was using a travel card funded by the taxpayer, according to documents obtained by DailyMail.com through a Freedom of Information Act request.

William Mendoza, a senior policy advisor in President Obama's Department of Education, pleaded guilty to attempted voyuerism and resigned for following women on the DC Metro and taking pictures up their skirts

Mendoza is seen alongside former Education Secretary Arne Duncan at the Rosebud-Sioux Tribal Fair in 2011 where Obama met Native Americans. Mendoza resigned just before the Department of Education could launch their own investigation into his sexual misconduct and pleaded guilty to the charges in January 2017

He was caught on surveillance camera trying to take the indecent picture during an investigation by the Metro Police Transit Department (WMATA), arrested and charged with one count of attempted voyeurism, a misdemeanor.

Mendoza resigned just before the Department of Education could launch their own investigation into his sexual misconduct.

He pleaded guilty to a charge of attempted voyeurism in January 2017, was given suspended 90-day prison sentence, one years probation and was fined $100. He has not worked in public office since stepping down.

Paul Y. Kiyonaga, Mendozas lawyer, told DailyMail.com that Mendoza received treatment after his conviction and is now trying to move on with his life away from public office.

He said: Mr. Mendoza has taken responsibility for this charge of attempted voyeurism.

The former executive director of the White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education (center), stepped down after he was arrested and charged with attempted voyeurism in November, 2016, DailyMail.com can reveal. He is seen speaking at a House Education & the Workforce Committee hearing in May 2015

Hes received treatment for the underlying issues that gave rise to this incident, and, with the strong support of his family, is moving forward productively with his life.

Mendoza became the executive director of the White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education in December 2011, when it was created by executive order by President Obama.

Throughout his tenure working for the Obama Administration, Mendoza tried to get Native Americans get better access to education and also rallied against the use of tribal mascots in sports.

Mendoza worked under Education Secretary Arne Duncan and his successor John King.

He has at least three children, is part of the Oglala-Sicangu Lakota tribe and is a fixture of the protests against the Dakota Access oil pipeline with his wife, Heather.

The documents obtained by DailyMail.com say Mendoza took four of the upskirt photos on subway trains in the capital and was caught on a platform watching a video of a woman in her underwear in a dressing room.

Twice on July 5, 2016, between 2.00pm and 3.00pm, Mendoza used his cell phone to take two indecent pictures of women in close proximity to their bottom at the Union Station Metro in the space of just 20 minutes.

One of the victims was wearing a short jeans skirt and the other had extremely short cut black shorts, according to police.

On July 7, 2016, at 8.23am a witness saw Mendoza behind a woman at the McPherson Square Metro station.

The victim was seen pulling her dress closer to her legs to cover up when she noticed the illuminated light of the cell phone, the documents state.

Mendoza, who earned $140,000 a year as a policy advisor in Obama's White House, was accused of trying to take photos and videos on his government-issued iPhone up womens skirts in July 2016 without their consent

Police say he ran out of the train station after someone noticed his surreptitious actions while a bystander shouted stop.

A detective called her about the incident during investigation, and said that a man who looked like Mendoza also tried to take a photo up her skirt on a subway train two weeks earlier.

Later on July 7, at 6.19pm, Mendoza was caught on a surveillance camera taking out his phone and looking at a video showing a womans underwear underneath a white dress.

The report states the footage appeared to have been surreptitiously filmed in a stores dressing room.

On July 8, at 9.25am, Mendoza left one of the platforms at the Farragut West Metro station and started following a woman wearing a maroon dress onto the escalators.

According to the documents he placed his cell phone near the bottom of her dress while behind her and took the picture.

Just one minute later, he walked back down the stairs and waited in an unpaid area of the station.

He waited until he saw another woman wearing a blue dress. Mendoza stood behind her on the escalator, took another picture, and then walked away.

Throughout his tenure, Mendoza tried to help Native Americans get access to better education and his wife, Heather (above with two of their children), was a fixture at protests against the Dakota Access oil pipeline

In August 2016, the Washington Metro Transit Area Authority Police Department (WMATA) contacted the Department of Education to say they were investigating Mendoza.

On November 25, before the Office of the Inspector General finished their probe into his conduct, he resigned.

Five days later, a detective from the WMATA got a search warrant for Mendoza's government-issued electronic items, including his laptop.

He pleaded guilty to one count of attempted voyeurism in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia on January 13, 2017, and was given a 90-day suspended prison sentence as part of a plea agreement.

Mendoza was also given one year probation and a $100 fine. After he pleaded guilty he sought treatment.

Mendoza protests against the Dakota Access oil pipeline in 2016 with his son on his shoulder

Mendoza became the executive director of the White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education in December 2011, when it was created by executive order by President Obama (pictured above in 2016)

In April 2017, the Department of Educations Office of the Inspector General advised he should be barred from federal employment due to suitability.

This wasnt the only time Mendoza came under scrutiny for his conduct during his time in office.

An autistic man said he punched him and called him a weetard for wearing a Washington Redskins sweater in 2015, a year before his run in with police.

Barrett Dahl, 28, says he was at a Native American gathering in Washington, DC in October 2015 when appointee Mendoza spotted him wearing the sweater.

'He comes to me and says you're a "weetard" for wearing a Redskins shirt,' Dahl told Oklahoma TV station KFOR at the time.

'He says where are you from that you're such a "weetard," you don't understand that you're offending me?'

Mendoza told News9 that he politely asked about the words 'INJUN PIMP' on the back of Dahl's shirt, and that Dahl responded violently.

According to Mendoza,, Dahl said: 'I don't have to (expletive) explain (expletive) to you. If you want to step outside and take this outside, I'd be happy to explain it to you.'

Barrett Dahl, 28, says he was at a Native American gathering in Washington, DC in October 2015 when appointee Mendoza spotted him wearing a Redskins sweater. The policy advisor allegedly insulted, spat on and savagely beat

Dahl says his shirt said 'INJUN PLAYER.'

Mendoza says he offered Dahl his hand after seeing him on the escalator and apologized for upsetting him, but Dahl then attacked.

'He was holding a cup in his hand,' Mendoza wrote, 'at which point, he threw its contents that was the smell of coffee and was hot, but not scalding.

'He then punched me in the face (right cheek). I tried to grab him but we both fell.'

Mendoza strenuously denied the allegation.

He was not arrested, and has never been accused of criminal wrongdoing following the confrontation.

The Department of Education confirmed to DailyMail.com that Mendoza resigned before the internal investigation into his conduct concluded.A cabinet minister yesterday claimed EU member states are unimpressed with the tough rhetoric of Brussels chief Brexit negotiator.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt accused Michel Barnier of lacking pragmatism as diplomats warned his hardline stance could drive Britain away from talks.

Mr Barnier last week warned the EU could reject Theresa Mays request for a two-year transition period if substantial disagreements over its terms remain.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt (pictured) accused Michel Barnier of lacking pragmatism as diplomats warned his hardline stance could drive Britain away from talks

He has been accused of trying to take advantage of the UK by imposing a so-called punishment clause that would allow the EU to sanction Britain at will until 2020.

Asked if she thought a transition period was a given, Miss Mordaunt yesterday told the BBCs Andrew Marr Show: My personal view is I do because its in our interest and its in the EUs interest, so I think common sense will prevail.

She added: What I would say to the public is that, actually, the other nations involved in this are very pragmatic and have not been impressed with some of the language that the (European) Commission has used.

Mr Barnier (pictured) last week warned the EU could reject Theresa Mays request for a two-year transition period if substantial disagreements over its terms remain

In a sign of disharmony among the EU, diplomats yesterday said the sanctions clause was unnecessarily included by Mr Barniers team and is likely be overhauled.

One senior official said: This whole issue has been overblown and was not in the European Councils guidelines.

Another added: This is just not a fundamental issue for us.

Britain and the EU are trying to thrash out a transition deal that would keep the UK tied closely to the EU until 2020.

But Downing Street was left furious last week after an EU negotiating document proposed a punishment clause that would allow sanctions to be imposed on Britain during transition.

Brexit Secretary David Davis accused the EU of using frankly discourteous language, but Mr Barnier claimed Brussels position was only logical.Ian Huntley has been recorded on secret tapes from prison admitting to 2003 killings of two ten-year-old girls

Ian Huntley has pleaded for forgiveness for murdering ten-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, claiming he thinks about them every day.

In a leaked recording, the former school caretaker apologised for the pain he had caused the victims families, as well as his own.

It is the first time the Soham murderer, now 44, has been heard in over ten years. His voice can reportedly be heard cracking with emotion in the tape recorded behind bars.

In the confession, leaked to The Sun, Huntley said: What I will say is that I am so terribly, terribly sorry for what I have done.

I know the people of Soham took me into their community, they trusted me, gave me a job and a home, and I betrayed them in the worst possible way.

And I am sorry for what I have done, sorry for the pain I have caused to the families and friends of Holly and Jessica, for the pain I have caused my family and friends, and for the pain I have caused the community of Soham.

I am genuinely, genuinely sorry and it breaks my heart when it is reported I have no remorse, that I relish something. I do not.

Best friends Holly Wells (left) and Jessica Chapman (right) were murdered by Ian Huntley in 2003 in Soham, Cambridgeshire

He added: I cant change anything. I cannot remove that day from history, what I have done. I know those girls would be 26 this year with families of their own, jobs and lives. I thought about them when they were turning 21 and when they were turning 18. I know no matter what I say that people are not going to think any better of me  but I would much rather people have the truth about how I feel. I have nothing to gain by saying these things.

I know I am never getting out. I have accepted that from day one.

Huntley said he does not want to be freed from prison and had allegedly heard about the plan to release taxi rapist John Worboys. He insisted he will not apply for parole out of consideration for his victims families.

I accepted a long time ago my life was in jail, he said. I dont really think about getting out, it is a non-starter. I hear about other prisoners coming up for parole. That makes you think a bit.

I will never apply for it. I want it made quite clear that I never ever, despite legal advice, thought about appealing against [my] sentence. Because I did not want to cause the families any more pain, I did not want to prolong things.

I will never ever apply to leave prison. Never ever apply for parole. I will die in prison. I accept that. He added: I dont believe I should be free. Not because I believe I am a danger but because two young girls are dead and I do not deserve to be released.

Huntley murdered the two girls at his home in Soham, Cambridgeshire. They had been at a family barbecue in August 2002, when they left to walk to a nearby sweet shop. Their bodies were found nearly a fortnight later, around 14 miles away in a ditch near Lakenheath, Suffolk.

Holly and Jessicas families were subjected to a full court hearing in 2003 because Huntley refused to plead guilty.

He was later sentenced to two life terms, with a minimum 40-year tariff at the maximum security Frankland prison in Durham.

He has now reportedly admitted on the recordings to killing Jessica to prevent her from raising the alarm, after Holly died in his bath in what he claims was an accident.

Huntley said: I maintain that the first one was a genuine accident. OK, the second one I panicked  whilst I said in court I just acted instinctively, I knew I had to stop her leaving the house. Huntley can be heard on the recording stating that he wanted to confess to the manslaughter of Holly and to the murder of Jessica.

That was never going to happen as I wanted to be able to say what happened in court, he said. It was something I thought very long and hard about because I did not want families through that trial. In a TV interview following the disappearance of Holly and Jessica, Huntley said that he was likely to be the last person to have seem them that day after they were reported missing.

Despite knowing that he had killed them, he also said he hoped the girls were still alive.

The murderer even gave his condolences to Hollys father Kevin.

However, 16 years after the murders, Huntley claims he was set up. He said: Obviously prior to my arrest, OK, I feel like I was betrayed by the Press because I was pestered because I lived on-site and I did not give an interview for a while and I did not want to either  Obviously they found out I had said to the police that I was one of the last people to see the girls. But when the Press found that out, they started hounding me and I refused to give an interview  I never wanted to court the Press or to give any interviews. I made the decision to give the interview to stop the pestering.

Huntley whined in the tape about food in prison and said he spends his time playing chess and painting. Prison is a very strange thing, he said. You develop acquaintances more than friends  The prison food is shocking. We send out for meals like fish and chips every weekend.

I am a painter, I play chess, I play scrabble, do crosswords. I used to be a good chess player but I keep getting all these headaches.

Everybody knows I have had suicide attempts and I have been in a coma. I have had a lot of health problems since and they have deteriorated over the years to the point now where I am really struggling. Nobody can seem to figure out what is wrong with me.

Every time they put me on medication, my body reacts very badly to it. They keep saying it is down to stress.

The murderer then spoke about things he misses while in prison, such as cuddling a girlfriend and alcohol, adding: Prison is difficult, and the reason it is difficult, I mean they take away your independence and, believe me, people dont realise what that is until you lose it.

Huntley said he spends his days reflecting on his offences.

I think about why I am in almost every day, he said. When you dont read papers or see documentaries  you lose contact with the reality of the situation  because it is like a totally separate world out there to what I have in here.

The killer said he was answerable to the family and friends of Holly and Jessica, to the community of Soham and to my family and friends, but added: I understand and accept what I did did affect the country as a whole and I am sorry for the way I made the country feel and for how it has affected people.

Accomplice Maxine is a liar but deserves every happiness, says Huntley

By Fiona Parker

Huntley has spoken of how he wishes Maxine Carr every happiness, despite believing that she betrayed him during his murder trial.

In the prison tapes, Huntley denies still being in love with her. But he says that he wishes her all the best and hopes that she has been able to move on.

Maxine Carr was cleared of two charges of aiding an offender but served 21 months in jail for perverting the course of justice

His former lover was jailed for giving Huntley a false alibi. Then a 25-year-old teaching assistant, Carr claimed she had been at home with Huntley on the night Holly and Jessica disappeared  prompting police to eliminate him as a suspect.

In the tapes, Huntley is heard saying: I wish her all the very best. I hope she is happy in what she is doing. I just hope she has found happiness. I hope she has been able to move on from all this.

Carr was cleared of two charges of aiding an offender but served 21 months in jail for perverting the course of justice.

She was released in May 2004 then granted a lifelong anonymity order and a new identity.

Carr was not exposed until a teenage rugby player she was having an affair with came forward to reveal she had been with him on the night in question in her hometown of Grimsby.

By the time police arrested Carr and Huntley on August 17, 2002, she had cleaned his cottage where the girls died. A few hours later, the bodies of Holly and Jessica were found. Because of Carrs lies they lay undiscovered in a ditch for 13 days. Carr turned on Huntley during his murder trial, describing him as that thing in the box as he sat in the dock at the Old Bailey.

Huntley has previously claimed that it was Carr who orchestrated the cover-up.

He said she told him to move the girls bodies from his car boot to remote woodland near Lakenheath, Suffolk.

In the tapes Huntley says: In court she told some lies in order to distance herself from me and I understand that. I was a little bit shocked at how far she actually did go.

Carr, now 40, had a child in 2014 and went on to marry that year at a luxury hotel.A man allegedly driving almost twice the speed limit has stunned police who pulled him over with an arrogant remark.

The Traffic and Highway Patrol Command said the male driver, 24, was stopped on the Pacific Highway near Glenugie, northern New South Wales, at 7.20pm on Sunday.

The 24-year-old was allegedly driving a maroon BMW convertible at 193kilometres per hour - almost double the 100kilometre per hour speed limit.

A man allegedly driving almost twice the speed limit has stunned the police officers who pulled him over with an arrogant comment (pictured is the man's car)

When questioned by the officers about his speed, the man allegedly responded: 'I thought I was doing about 210'.

The man, a Queensland licence holder, was issued with a traffic infringement notice by the officers, who had been conducting stationary speed enforcement in the area.

The Sippy Downs man was fined $2,384 for exceeding the speed limit by more than 45kilometres per hour and banned from driving in New South Wales for six months.

A male passenger was also in the car - which had Queensland registration plates - when it was pulled over.Almost 200,000 people a year are being hit by scam texts which they are charged for receiving.

Customers can end up paying up to 4.50 a time for the unsolicited premium rate messages.

The messages do not make it clear people are paying to receive them and they are often being billed for weekly or monthly texts, which advertise competitions, gaming services or pornographic content.

Industry insiders revealed that more than 500 people a day are being billed for so-called premium rate texts.

Almost 200,000 people a year are being hit by scam texts which they are charged for receiving. The messages do not make it clear people are paying to receive them

Experts said most victims do not realise they have been targeted, as the sums added to monthly phone bills can go unnoticed.

Fines against scammers charging for the texts, and in some cases phone calls, more than trebled in a year to their highest level for almost a decade.

Last year, industry regulator the Phone-paid Services Authority (PSA) imposed fines of 5.1million, up from 1.4million in the previous year.

Some people have been scammed over a number of years to receive messages they initially believed to be spam and deleted.

Currently, it is up to consumers to approach the rogue companies and seek repayment unless they complain via the regulator.

Peter Carter, 70, a retired brewery engineer of Preston, Lancashire, was unwittingly billed 275 to receive texts from a competition provider.

He said: These companies are leeches. They should have to bill users directly  in which case only people who wanted to be charged would pay.

Mr Carter has since been refunded the money.

Industry insiders revealed that more than 500 people a day are being billed for so-called premium rate texts

In one case, people searching for contact details of organisations ranging from Sky to HMRC were directed to websites advertising premium rate numbers.

Callers were then put through to the legitimate organisations helpline but for an eye-watering 4.54 connection fee, then a charge of 60p per minute.

The company involved, De Veritate Sumus, claimed it was offering a service where customers could record their call. But the PSA found neither the extra service nor the charges were clearly advertised.

De Veritate, based in County Durham, was banned from operating and fined 850,000 last July.

Labour MP Chi Onwurah, the shadow science and technology minister, said: Mobile phone operators say they have no responsibility for charges coming across their networks.

Its time to review what their responsibilities should be and to ensure customers are better protected.

I have been a victim of this problem myself and had to complain to Ofcom before it was resolved. It should be easier to make a complaint and to be refunded.Diesel-only trains should be banished from Britains railways by 2040, the new rail minister will say today.

Jo Johnson will call for them to be replaced with electric-powered locomotives that are more environmentally friendly.

In his first speech since he got the job last month, Mr Johnson will say: I would like to see us take all diesel-only trains off the track by 2040.

If that seems like an ambitious goal, it should be and I make no apology for that.

After all were committed to ending the sales of petrol and diesel cars by 2040. If we can achieve that, then why cant the railway aspire to a similar objective?

Diesel-only trains should be banished from Britains railways by 2040, the new rail minister will say today

Mr Johnson will say that increased passenger numbers has resulted in greater carbon emissions.

Many thought transport would become less necessary as the Internet grew, but were travelling twice as much as we did in 1970, and while this mobility spurs economic growth, theres a price to pay in pollution and carbon emissions, he will say.

Mr Johnson will add: This Government is now injecting record levels of investment in the railway to help it grow further. But alongside increased funding, the industry also needs to modernise. Compared with other transport sectors, progress has been palpably slow.

He will call for tests to begin soon on hydrogen powered trains.

He will say: Alternative-fuel trains powered entirely by hydrogen are a prize on the horizon and Id like to see hydrogen train trials on the UK railway as soon as possible because hydrogen offers an affordable  and potentially much cleaner  alternative to diesel.Dr Ron Daniels, of the UK Sepsis Trust, said the new NHS advice was concerning

Health chiefs were last night accused of putting childrens lives at risk with a campaign to divert parents away from GP surgeries and hospitals.

NHS England today launches a TV campaign urging parents to go to a pharmacist rather than doctors or A&E if their child is suffering a minor illness.

But experts said the symptoms of a cold or flu were difficult to distinguish from the early signs of life-threatening problems such as sepsis or meningitis  and the time lost through consulting a pharmacist could be fatal.

Dr Ron Daniels, of the UK Sepsis Trust, said the new NHS advice was concerning, adding: It could be potentially dangerous. Pharmacists do not receive training in differentiating between minor ailments and serious illness.

'When patients have come to harm we find time and again that they have been incorrectly reassured by a health professional of some sort.

He said persuading people to use pharmacies was sensible guidance, but added: This should have been caveated.

'If a child has symptoms of infection but the parents are concerned and suspect their child might be more seriously unwell, its important that they are encouraged to trust their instincts.

The Daily Mail has battled to raise awareness and prevent needless deaths with the End the Sepsis Scandal campaign.

Both sepsis and meningitis are notoriously difficult to diagnose until they have spread throughout the body.

If caught early, they can usually be controlled with antibiotics.

But if not spotted soon enough, there is little that can be done once the condition has spread.

Every 30-minute delay in treating a patient with sepsis increases the risk of death by 7 per cent.

Melissa Whiteley, 18, died last month after following NHS advice to stay home when she came down with flu

Flu girl's delay proved fatal Melissa Whiteley, 18, died last month after following NHS advice to stay home when she came down with flu. When her parents took her to hospital a few days after she fell ill, the engineering student from Stoke-on-Trent was diagnosed with flu, pneumonia, sepsis and a fungal infection. She died on January 27. Melissas mother Sharon said: We read all the warnings about not coming to hospital if you have a cold or the flu. 'Its so frustrating that we delayed taking her in because of that. Advertisement

The NHS has long tried to take pressure off A&Es and GPs by persuading patients to use services such as the 111 hotline, walk-in centres and pharmacies.

After the busiest winter on record, hospitals are close to capacity  but experts warn that small children are one group the NHS should not take risks with.

Today the NHS will publish data showing only 6 per cent of parents with under-fives would consider seeking help from a high street pharmacist in the first instance.

It also says millions of GP appointments and A&E visits are for self-treatable conditions such as coughs and tummy troubles, at a cost of more than 850million each year to the NHS.

Dr Tom Nutt, of the Meningitis Now charity, said it was right to promote underutilised pharmacies, but added: We are however concerned that putting another step in the process of diagnosis for something like meningitis could result in valuable time lost.

Dr Bruce Warner, of NHS England, said: Pharmacists are highly trained NHS health professionals who are able to offer clinical advice and effective treatments for a wide range of minor health concerns there and then.

'However, if symptoms suggest it is something more serious, they have the right clinical training to ensure people get the help they need.Theresa May today urged the DUP and Sinn Fein to make 'one final push' to come to a powersharing deal - and said an agreement should be done 'very soon'.

The Prime Minister said she had 'full and frank conversations' with all five parties holding talks in Stormont and said 'there is the basis of an agreement here'.

And in her first visit to Belfast since powersharing collapsed 13 months ago, she said it was now for the main parties to thrash out the details of a deal.

Speaking outside Stormont today, the PM said: 'I believe it is possible to see the basis of an agreement here.

'There is the basis of an agreement and it should be possible to see an executive up and running in Northern Ireland very soon.'

'We should be able to see an executive up and running very soon.'

Her comments came after Sinn Fein said 'this is the week' for a deal to be struck while DUP leader Arlene Foster had said the tone of talks had been good.

But hopes that a deal would be signed up to today - raised by the Prime Minister's visit to Belfast - were dashed.

Theresa May (pictured outside Stromont today) said she has encouraged the DUP and Sinn Fein to make 'one final push' to come to a powersharing deal - and an agreement should be done 'very soon'

The Prime Minister (pictured outside Stormont today) said she had 'full and frank conversations' with all five parties and said 'there is the basis of an agreement here'

The DUP leader Arlene Foster (pictured at Stormont today) said no deal has yet been reached to bring back powersharing in northern Ireland and said the parties are still in talks to thrash out the details of a deal to end the 13-month stalemate

Sinn Fein's new President Mary Lou McDonald (pictured, centre in purple) said they are committed to getting a deal, adding: 'This is the week and this is the time to decide.'

It is the first time Mrs May has waded into the crisis in Belfast since powersharing collapsed more than a year ago by the resignation of the late Martin McGuinness.

She stressed that Westminster stands ready to help the DUP and Sinn Fein put aside their feuding and re-enter a powersharing executive together.

The PM said: 'Today I have been meeting the leaders of the main parties involved in the talks and I have urged them to make one final push for the sake of the people here in Northern Ireland.

'It has been thirteen long months since we last saw devolved government here and I think we are now at the point of where it is time for the locally elected representatives to find a way to work together and to deal with and tackle the many pressing issues facing Northern Ireland.

'I have had full and frank conversations with the five parties. I've also met with the Taoiseach.

'And while some differences remain I believe that it is possible to see the basis of an agreement here. There is the basis of an agreement and it should be possible to see an Executive up and running in Northern Ireland very soon.'

She said the DUP and Sinn Fein have been 'working very hard' to close the remaining gaps.

Meanwhile, both the DUP and Sinn Fein said they are on the cusp of a deal - but it has not yet been agreed.

Mrs Foster said: 'Good progress has been made and we will continue to work towards more progress.'

Sinn Fein's new President Mary Lou McDonald said they are committed to getting a deal, adding: 'This is the week and this is the time to decide.'

Irish PM Leo Varadkar (pictured today) said he held talks with Mrs May and said he is 'very hopeful' the DUP and Sinn Fein will be able to come to an agreement this week.

She said: 'Be in no doubt that we are serous about functioning powersharing, we are serious about working in good faith with partners.

'And be in no doubt that we expect the same leadership and political will from our partners in unionism and in the DUP. This is the week and this is the time to decide.'

But she also revealed that Sinn Fein did not meet directly with the DUP today - only held talks with the Irish and British governments.

She said: 'Clearly we need to meet, clearly we need to resolve the outstanding issues.'

Mrs Foster said the tone of the talks had been 'good' and appeared to lay the blame for the impasse with Sinn Fein.

She said: 'If the public are frustrated at the pace of progress, we all are as well.'

Sinn Fein quit powersharing demanding Mrs Foster's resignation over a renewable energy scandal. A snap election was held but failed to break the impasse.

Westminster has been stalling over reimposing direct rule for the first time in more than 10 years in the hope the two sides would make an agreement.

Theresa May (pictured at the Bombardier factory in Belfast today) has flown to Northern Ireland fuelling speculation a deal to finally restore the powersharing government is imminent

Mrs May visited Bombardier today after the company was victorious in a trade dispute with a US rival

Mrs May was greeted by her Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley at Stormont today ahead of the meetings to try and break the deadlock on devolution

Irish PM Leo Varadkar said he held talks with Mrs May and said he is 'very hopeful' the DUP and Sinn Fein will be able to come to an agreement this week.

He insisted it had not been a wasted trip, adding: 'We have to be patient - if there is going to be an executive established there has to be an agreement between the DUP and Sinn Fein.'

Mr Varadkar said he and Mrs May also spoke about Brexit and reaffirmed their commitment to doing a free trade and customs deal between Ireland and the UK.

Before heading to Stormont for the talks, Mrs May visited Bombardier's Belfast factory.

The Canadian-owned plane manufacturer won a major trade dispute with a US rival last month, protecting thousands of Northern Irish jobs.

She met staff and management at Bombardier to discuss the Government's commitment to back business success and opportunity in Northern Ireland.

The region has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed. However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is close.

On Saturday, Sinn Fein's Northern Ireland leader Michelle O'Neill said talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood warned that any deal to restore powersharing must end the cycle of political stand-off between Sinn Fein and the DUP.

Mr Eastwood said it is not enough to simply form a new executive.

'The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off, but very bad at the responsibility of government.

'That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end.'

It is the first time Mrs May has waded into the crisis in Belfast since powersharing collapsed more than a year ago by the resignation of the late Martin McGuinness (file image). Mr McGuinness quit as deputy first minister just months before dying from a rare heart condition

Mr Eastwood added that when powersharing is restored, focus must return immediately to the threat posed by Brexit, the economy and the crises in the health service and school budgets.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an Executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a stand-alone piece of legislation to protect speakers  an Irish Language Act  but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.A policeman found himself in a real-life Hot Fuzz situation when he was called in to help catch a swan.

PC Jamie Payne swooped in when the bird was spotted on the A33 near Reading.

After winging his way to the busy A-road, the roads unit officer pursued the 'elusive swan' on foot - in scenes reminiscent of the 2007 comedy starring Simon Pegg.

The Thames Valley Police unit said the feathered fugitive, which they named Sam, was handed over to a charity.

PC Jamie Payne swooped in when a swan (pictured with him) was spotted on the A33 near Reading

After winging his way to the busy A-road, the roads unit officer pursued the 'elusive swan' on foot - in scenes reminiscent of the 2007 comedy starring Simon Pegg

The Thames Valley Police unit said the feathered fugitive (pictured), which they named Sam, was handed over to a charity

It was PC Payne's first job since he completed a Traffic Pursuit and Containment Course (TPAC), it added.

Though it seems the officer was already something of a swan pursuit specialist, as it later emerged he had rescued another one last April.

A similar incident ensued in Wiltshire just over two years ago.

In July 2015, PCSO Melissa Camilleri and PC Steve Edwards were called to a supermarket car park in Devizes where an unruly swan was wreaking havoc.

After piling it in to the back seat of their car, the officers took the bird to a safer, rural spot to be released but not before posing for a photograph with their detainee.

The bird was released safely at a safer location outside the small market town.

Hot Fuzz tells the story of a former London police officer who finds himself struggling to adapt to a slower crime circuit when relocated to a sleepy rural village.

Simon Pegg plays PC Nicholas Angel who finds himself with struggling to find enough illegal behaviour to keep himself occupied in the village of Sandfor.

He is partnered with Danny Butterman (played by Nick Frost) who is endlessly fascinated with his colourful history at the Met.

Hot Fuzz tells the story of a former London police officer who finds himself struggling to adapt to a slower crime circuit when relocated to a sleepy rural village

Simon Pegg (right) plays PC Nicholas Angel (left) who finds himself with struggling to find enough illegal behaviour to keep himself occupied in the village of SandforThe attacker was remanded by police and is expected to face court in ten days

Paramedics rushed him to hospital but he died of internal and cranial bleeding

He was allegedly attacked at the Ruby Lounge in Pattaya by an American man

Australian man in his 40s has died in Thailand in the wake of a savage bar fight

Pictured: Benjamin Robb, who Thai media have named as the Australian man killed in a bar attack in Pattaya on Friday night

An Australian man in his 40s has died in Thailand following a savage bar fight in 'notorious' party town Pattaya, where he was thrown to the floor and 'stomped on'.

The victim was fatally assaulted at the Ruby Lounge on Friday night by as many as five men in front of 'shocked' customers and staff, The Herald Sun reported.

Local media outlet The Pataya News identified the victim as Benjamin Robb, from Newport in Melbourne.

Witnesses claim one of the men - believed to be an American tourist - approached Robb and threw him across the bar before punching him several times in the face.

On Monday morning, ThaiVisa reported the victim had been in an argument with four or five foreign men, all of whom were intoxicated and aggressive.

The American man then allegedly approached the Australian man as he lay on the floor and 'stamped on his head multiple times', according to an eyewitness who recounted the horrific incident in a Facebook group.

An Australian man in his 40s has died after a savage bar fight at the Ruby Lounge in Thailand

The man was drinking in popular Thailand party district Pattaya when he was fatally assaulted

Bar staff contacted paramedics, who rushed to the venue just after 7.30pm as a 'patron with medical experience' put the victim in the recovery position and attempted to administer first aid.

'He [the attacker] smashed his foot from above in the guys [victim's] face at least 10-15 times with full force. That whole incident lasted probably 20 seconds', the witness wrote.

'The bully's buddies were making pics of the poor guy. They didn't make an attempt to leave the bar. We left the scene before the ambulance arrived.'

The victim was reportedly left unconscious, bleeding and suffering from 'horrific' face injuries as his attackers took pictures of him.

A patron administered first aid to the man at the Ruby Lounge before the paramedics arrived

He was rushed to Pattaya Memorial Hospital, but passed away around 3am as a result of 'internal bleeding and severe facial damage as a result of sustained impact to his cranium and skull'.

One of the attackers, believed to be the American man, reportedly fled the scene.

He later turned himself in at a police station, where he was remanded over the incident. He is expected to face court within ten days.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the man's death to Daily Mail Australia.

A spokeswoman said DFAT is: 'providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian man who died in Thailand'.

Local police are withholding an official statement as they continue to investigate the crime and decide what charges to file against the attacker, The Pattaya News reported.

The man was rushed to Pattaya Memorial Hospital, but passed away at 3am from his injuries

Ruby Lounge has also released a statement regarding the incident, and confirmed that no other customer of staff member was injured during the incident.

'An altercation lasting less than 20 seconds between two customers on Friday night resulted in one person being taken to hospital with serious looking injuries, which sadly resulted in him passing away in the early hours of Saturday morning.

'The other individual involved handed himself in to police and it is understood he is to remain in custody until a court appearance in 10 days or so.

'Whilst our thoughts remain with the victims relatives, we would also like to thank the emergency services for their prompt and professional attention in dealing with the incident.'Comedian David Walliams is secretly dating 'kidnapped' glamour model Chloe Ayling.

The Britain's Got Talent judge, 46, became friends with the 20-year-old on social media, The Sun reports.

He then arranged a private meeting with Miss Ayling at his London home shortly before she flew to Switzerland ahead of the trial of her alleged kidnapper in Italy last week.

Mr Walliams has also 'liked' a number of scantily-clad pictures Miss Ayling has posted on her Instagram page, starting from September last year.

Comedian David Walliams is secretly dating kidnapped model Chloe Ayling after pair reportedly connected on social media

'David orchestrated the meeting and arranged for her to visit his London home,' a source told the newspaper.

'He is intrigued by her story and has clearly taken a shine to her.

'It's a case of waiting and seeing if their relationship grows from here.'

Mr Walliams has been single since his marriage to model Lara Stone, 34, ended in 2015. The pair have a son Alfred, four.

Miss Ayling is also single after splitting from her carpet fitter boyfriend Conor Keyes, 21, the father of her two-year-old son Ashton.

She was allegedly kidnapped in Milan in July last year by two Polish brothers.

Mr Walliams liked a number of Miss Ayling's racy pictures and arranged a private meeting with the model shortly before she flew to Switzerland ahead of the trial of her alleged kidnapper

She claims she was held hostage for six days by a group calling itself Black Death after being lured to a fake modelling shoot in Milan.

She claims to have been drugged, stripped and handcuffed before being bundled into a suitcase in the boot of a car.

But she has since attracted criticism for the way she has handled herself in the media since the incident, with some accusing her of inventing the events in Italy as a publicity stunt.

The trial of Lukasz Herba, 30, opened last week in Milan. He denies charges of kidnapping and faces 25 years in jail if convicted.

David Walliams (pictured) has been single since his marriage to model Lara Stone  who he has a four-year-old son with - ended in 2015

His brother Michal, 36, is in Britain and is trying to block attempts to extradite him to face trial in Italy.

During the opening day of Herba's trial, it emerged Miss Ayling, from Coulsdon in South London, had been in contact with her kidnapper in 2015 when she was just 17.

She had accepted a 'friend' request from him on Facebook and sent him at least two messages.

The court was shown CCTV footage of the model holding hands with Herba in Turin.

Lukasz Herba (pictured) and his brother Michal, 36, bought gloves and balaclavas and ordered fake identity documents from Poland, the court heard

His lawyers have accused the model of staging the ordeal to gain publicity  a claim which was dismissed by a judge at an earlier hearing.

Miss Ayling's lawyer Francesco Pesce said she held hands with the alleged captor because she was under duress. He said: 'You can tell she is not happy to be holding his hand. She was probably just trying to keep him calm.'

Last month, Mr Walliams faced criticism for hosting the Presidents Club Charity dinner which became embroiled in a sexism storm.Two women have been killed and a third is in hospital after a car ploughed through a front yard where they sat drinking on milk crates at a party.

The women, aged 42 and 58, were hit by a car when it drove into the front yard of the Kurrajong Court home in Katherine, in the Northern Territory, about 7pm on Saturday.

A third woman remains in hospital after the horror crash.

Two women have been killed and a third is in hospital after a car ploughed through a front yard (pictured) during a party as they sat drinking on milk crates

Katherine Detectives together with the Major Crash Unit, are investigating the circumstances which led to the death of the two women.

Police, St John Ambulance and Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service crews all attended the scene.

When emergency crews arrived, they found the two women trapped under the vehicle.

They were declared dead at the scene, while a third woman was rushed to hospital.

There were about 30 people at the home when the horror crash unfolded in front of them.

Northern Territory Police said the 18-year-old driver of the vehicle was taken into custody and is assisting officers with their investigation.

The two women who were killed were known to the driver.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

There were about 30 people at the Katherine home (pictured) when the horror crash unfolded in front of themA father and his three children are all battling an incurable genetic condition that makes the body fall apart from the inside.

Phil Clarks wife Sallyann must cope with the burden of knowing that he and their youngsters could be taken from her.

All four have a form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) which weakens the connective tissue that supports organs and body parts, holding them in place.

A father and his three children are all battling an incurable genetic condition that makes the body fall apart from the inside. Phil Clarks wife Sallyann must cope with the burden of knowing that he and their youngsters could be taken from her (pictured together)

Pictured: Phil Clark carry son Steffan - who also suffers with the condition - whilst on a walk in the Black Mountains, south Wales, in 2014.

Mr Clarks condition is so advanced that the progressively weakened ligaments in his neck could snap with fatal consequences in a process that has been described as internal decapitation.

The family must raise 55,000 to pay for him to have urgent and complex surgery in Spain next month that is not available on the NHS and may also be required in future by the children Owain, 13, Rhiannon, ten, and Steffan, five.

We have been dealt the cruellest of blows, said former teacher Mrs Clark, 38, of Birkrigg Common, near Ulverston, Cumbria.

Knowing Phil and our precious children are battling against such a terrible fate is horrendous. My husband could suddenly die and wont be here to watch his children grow up and help them cope with the same dreadful condition.

Mr Clarks condition is so advanced that the progressively weakened ligaments in his neck could snap with fatal consequences. Pictured: Phil Clark with wife Sallyann, son Owain (centre) and newborn baby daughter Rhiannon

Pictured: MRI scans of Phil Clark's neck and spine. The family must raise 55,000 to pay for him to have urgent and complex surgery in Spain next month that is not available on the NHS

Pictured: Phil Clark,24, horse riding while on holiday in Canada in 2003. The lifesaving surgery will fuse 39-year-old Mr Clarks upper vertebrae together to stabilise and strengthen his neck

The lifesaving surgery will fuse 39-year-old Mr Clarks upper vertebrae together to stabilise and strengthen his neck, as well as remove part of his skull to make way for his brain that is seeping into his neck.

Mr Clark was once superfit but now wears a neck brace and relies on a mobility scooter to get around. He said: I have gone from running up mountains and windsurfing to being left with the most horrendous muscle pain, severe fatigue and fighting for my life.

The family need another 23,000 to cover the cost of the operation.

I dont like asking for money but its our final chance for me to be here for my children, who are going to need so much support as they get older, said Mr Clark, who is employed by Amazon but has been unable to work for three years.

His condition was diagnosed after Rhiannon began suffering from mobility problems.

Mrs Clark said: By the time she reached six Rhiannon could only walk for a few minutes at a time and suffered from severe joint pain. Symptoms appeared in her siblings as well.

Pictured: Phil Clark with wife Sallyann, daughter Rhiannon and son Owain at a family wedding in New York state,USA, in 2011. Experts say the surgery Mr Clark will have is not available on the NHS because there is not enough evidence to monitor its long-term success rate

Father Phil Clark who suffers from Elhers Danlos Hypermobility with daughter Rhiannon,10, sons Owain,13 and Steffan,5, and wife Sallyann pictured at their home near Ulverston, Cumbria

Mrs Clark said: Owain had started complaining of agonising pain in his knees and severe headaches, and later on Steffan began waking in the night screaming in agony. All three are now home-schooled.

Their parents were told 50 per cent of children in a family would be expected to inherit the condition. We have just been incredibly unlucky that all three of our kids have it, Mrs Clark said.

Her husbands cranio-cervical instability, in which his brain is sinking and his neck weakening, is a rare extreme side effect of EDS. Without surgery paralysis, organ failure and internal decapitation are likely.

EDS affects around one in 5,000 people to different degrees of severity. Experts say the surgery Mr Clark will have is not available on the NHS because there is not enough evidence to monitor its long-term success rate.

To donate go to: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/phil-clarkA fantasist who claimed he was the victim of a VIP paedophile ring was charged with wasting police time after a series of hoax 999 calls.

The 41-year-old, known only as Darren, was the second alleged victim to come forward with claims of sexual abuse.

Suffolk Police and Scotland Yard spent 18 months probing the allegations but dropped the investigation in 2015 after finding no evidence.

A fantasist who claimed he was the victim of a VIP paedophile ring that included MPs was charged with wasting police time after a series of hoax 999 calls

Now it has emerged 'Darren' was charged with wasting police time after claiming to have been kidnapped and shot at, reports The Sun.

Last year he appeared in court accused of making a series of hoax 999 calls about a gun gang.

The alleged hoax calls are not related to the VIP paedophile ring.

The wasting police time charges were dropped after prosecutors said there was no realistic chance of prosecution.

The 41-year-old, known only as Darren, appeared in court accused of making a series of hoax 999 calls about a gun gang

The latest revelations come as 'Nick', who claimed he was abused by former prime minister Ted Heath, will face trial over child pornography.

'Darren' alleges he was abused by Tory politicians in a London flat and claims to have witnessed two murders.

He first came forward in 2012.

He refused to comment yesterday.Chefs could be banned from boiling lobsters alive, the fisheries minister said yesterday.

George Eustice said the government was looking at bringing in a law that would mean the crustaceans had to be either frozen to death or stunned.

Campaigners want ministers to change animal welfare laws to include decapod crustaceans for the first time because they say there is evidence they feel pain.

Chefs could be banned from boiling lobsters alive, the fisheries minister said yesterday

Mr Eustice yesterday said the government was considering amending the legislation. He told BBC Radio 5 Live: 'There is a serious issue. We know that among some of the larger crustaceans, such as lobsters, they do not feel conscious pain in the way that we do.

'But there is some evidence that they have a nervous system that enables them to detect stress and this is something that we ought to be considering.

'The RSPCA has issued some very good guidance on the correct way to kill a lobster. You can either gradually freeze them, in which case they literally lull into unconsciousness.

Campaigners want ministers to change animal welfare laws to include decapod crustaceans for the first time because they say there is evidence they feel pain

'Or there is even a device called a 'crusta-stun', which is a stunning device that knocks a lobster out.'

He added: 'I've spent many an hour sitting down with our officials and experts. We are looking at this issue but it is a complex one and the evidence is actually quite mixed.'

Campaigners including television presenter Michaela Strachan, RSPCA chief scientific officer Dr Julia Wrathall of the Humane Society International, last month wrote to Environment Secretary Michael Gove about the issue.

In a letter, they said: 'In light of the extreme practices they are subjected to, we call on the government to include decapod crustaceans under the definition of 'animal' in the Animal Welfare Bill (Sentencing and Recognition of Sentience) and in the Animal Welfare Act 2006.'

More than 32,000 people have already signed a petition online to support a change in the law.One of Britain's biggest butchers has voluntarily recalled meat products after a surprise inspection revealed problems with use-by dates.

Food Standards Agency (FSA) checks 'revealed concerns' about how Fairfax Meadow was applying the dates on some products.

According to its website, Fairfax Meadow supplies meat to pubs, bars, hotels, caterers and 'some of the best fine dining restaurants' in the UK.

Food Standards Agency (FSA) checks 'revealed concerns' about how Fairfax Meadow was applying the dates on some products

Weeks earlier, Russell Hume, which supplied meat to large chains including Wetherspoon and Greene King, was ordered to recall products due to 'non-compliance with food hygiene regulations'.

The FSA said Fairfax Meadow responded 'immediately' to its concerns following Thursday's inspections and is changing its procedures.

Penny Tomlinson, the company's managing director, said in a statement: 'This voluntary withdrawal reflects our desire to ensure our practices remain industry-leading and follows a dialogue with the FSA.

'It has been undertaken as a precautionary measure and has been promptly implemented.'

Weeks earlier, Russell Hume, which supplied meat to large chains including Wetherspoon and Greene King, was ordered to recall products due to 'non-compliance with food hygiene regulations'

It is not known how many products or packs are affected.

The FSA added: 'Public health remains our top priority and at no stage has there been any indication that people have become ill from eating meat supplied by Fairfax Meadow.

'We, along with local authorities, are continuing to assess the situation and we are working with the business to oversee their product withdrawal.'A 22-year-old woman fell from a cliff and ended up fracturing her spine after illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.

American border patrol agents saw a man walking near Highway 98 east of Ocotillo in Imperial County, waving his arms to attract attention.

He led officials to his girlfriend and told the agents that the pair of them had fallen off a 20-foot cliff.

A 22-year-old Mexican woman plunged off a 20-foot cliff while trying to cross the border into the U.S. illegally, landing her in the hospital with a fractured spine. The area is mountainous

The woman was rescued by U.S. emergency services after falling 20 feet off a cliff

The terrain was mountainous after the duo illegally crossed the border, officials said.

Although the man wasn't injured his partner had a serious back injury.

After agents reached the woman they decided to call emergency workers to assist.

She was then placed on a gurney and hoisted out by a helicopter.

An MRI at a nearby trauma hospital found she had fractured her spine in the fall. After recovering in hospital she will be returned to Mexico along with her 44-year-old boyfriend (stock image or a border patrol agent)

She was flown to a hospital where an MRI revealed that she had fractured her spine.

Agents detained her boyfriend, a 44-year-old man from Mexico.

His 22-year-old Mexican girlfriend will remain in hospital until she recorders before then being returned to Mexico, border patrol agents said.Hackers have hijacked thousands of government websites to help them to stockpile cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

Websites, including those belonging to the Information Commissioners Office, Student Loans Company and Scottish NHS helpline, were infected with a virus.

As a result unsuspecting visitors have had their computers and phones commandeered to help criminals make more money. Up to 4,700 websites have been affected worldwide.

Hackers have hijacked thousands of government websites to help them to stockpile cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin

The cyber criminals planted a virus called Coinhive in software used by the websites to help visually impaired users access the websites. And when users clicked on the sites the virus was transferred to their own computers.

The hackers then used the extra processing power provided by users devices to mine cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

Mining is the process where new digital coins are created by solving complex mathematical problems, uses increasing amounts of computer processing power.

Once the virtual coins are mined they can be stored online and later withdrawn as real money. Since the cryptocurrencys creation the value of one Bitcoin has soared from just 72p to 12,300.

Scott Helme, the security researcher who first spotted the hack, said of the attack: It means unsuspecting visitors to those websites have their devices  whether it be a phone, tablet or computer - also hacked.

Essentially unsuspecting people are now helping the bad guy.

Websites, including those belonging to the Information Commissioners Office, Student Loans Company and Scottish NHS helpline, were infected with a virus

Their devices may get slower as they are being used to mine cryptocurrencies. But the worst part is they are essentially working for a criminal gang. It is unclear whether the hack was orchestrated by a lone wolf or criminal group.

The hack comes less than a year after the Wannacry cyber attack that disrupted computers belonging to more than a third of NHS trusts.

A spokesman for the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) --said: NCSC technical experts are examining data involving incidents of malware being used to illegally mine cryptocurrency.

The affected service has been taken offline, largely mitigating the issue. At this stage there is nothing to suggest that members of the public are at risk.A 47-year-old man who was dramatically pulled off his flight to New Zealand before being charged with rape has allegedly breached his bail conditions in less than a week.

The former rugby player, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was charged with unlawful stalking, use of a listening device and breach of bail over the weekend.

Last week he was pulled from a flight to Auckland after a 37-year-old woman reported to police she had been raped at a home in Mudgeeraba on the Gold Coast the day before.

A man was dragged off a flight heading from the Gold Coast in Queensland to Auckland, New Zealand, by police on Monday

He did not appear for the brief mention of the new charges at Southport Magistrates Court and no application for bail was put forward.

It is believed his mother, who still lives in New Zealand, bought the one-way place ticket after she was made aware of the rape allegations made by an ex-girlfriend, the Gold Coast Bulletin reported.

State and Federal police at the Gold Coast airport quickly interrupted the man's travel plans, removing him from the flight.

The Robina man, who works as a personal trainer, faced the Southport Magistrates Court, where he was granted bail following a brief appearance in court.

The former footy player was released on bail however has broken those terms

The man, who moved from New Zealand more than 10 years ago, was ordered to surrender his passport, which the court heard he was willing to do during his application.

It was also deemed he would need to report to police regularly and have no contact with the victim.

However, over the weekend the new charges were brought forward, which included the breach of release conditions.

The matter was adjourned to March 2 when the man will appear via videolink.



A man who sexually violated his elderly neighbour before stomping her to death has lost a bid to appeal his sentence.

Jaden Lee Stroobant's appeal was dismissed by Justice Brendan Brown on Monday morning in Auckland, according to The NZ Herald.

In May, the 21-year-old was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum no-parole period of 17 years for murdering Cunziu Tian, 69, at her home in the city's north-west in January 2016.

Stroobant was handed a sentence of preventative detention by Justice Graham Lang for the sexual offences.

Jaden Lee Stroobant, a 21-year-old who sexually violated his elderly neighbour before stomping her to death at her Auckland home in 2016, has lost a bid to appeal his sentence

In May, the 21-year-old was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum no-parole period of 17 years for murdering Cunziu Tian, 69

Justice Lang said Stroobant refused to properly acknowledge the sexual offences.

The 21-year-old appealed the preventative detention sentence, but was denied.

His lawyer Emma Priest told the NZ Herald the 'imposition of preventive detention was out of line with all other cases and the exercise of the discretion was wrong in this case as a result.'

'In particular, his age, guilty plea and that he had never been offered substantive rehabilitative opportunities as his longest previous sentence was six months imprisonment.'

Ms Priest said Stroobant's guilty plea showed that he had taken responsibility for the sexual offences.

Justice Brendan Brown upheld the sentence, stating it imposed to keep the community safe.

'Here, we note in particular the absence of insight on the part of Mr Stroobant into his sexual offending and his lack of empathy with his victims,' said Justice Brown.At the invitation of Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev and his wife arrived in Armenia on state visit, the Armenian Presidential Office said.

February 12, 2018, 12:30 Official welcoming ceremony of Bulgarian President held in Armenian Presidential Palace

STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 12, ARTSAKHPRESS:President Serzh Sargsyan and First Lady Rita Sargsyan welcomed the Bulgarian President Rumen Radev and First Lady Dessislava Radeva at the Presidential Palace. The official welcoming ceremony was followed by the private talk between the Armenian and Bulgarian Presidents.

Welcoming his Bulgarian counterpart in Armenia, President Sargsyan expressed hope that his visit to Armenia will be held successfully, and President Radev will return to Bulgaria with warm impressions and agreements reached.

Although ten years passed since my official visit to Bulgaria, I remember that visit with pleasure since it was full of warmth and numerous friendly manifestations. I want to state with satisfaction that during these 25 years we have serious achievements. And despite the fact that we have not fully utilized the potential between our two countries, these achievements are legitimate. They are legitimate as our relations are based on a good historical friendship.

Mr. President, taking this chance, I want to congratulate Bulgaria on chairmanship at the Council of the European Union and wish you success on implementing the priorities of your chairmanship. This is also important for us as we are trying to come closer to the EU.

Once again, welcome to Armenia!, the President said.

In his turn the Bulgarian President thanked Serzh Sargsyan for the invitation to visit Armenia, stating that he accepted it with great pleasure.

The mutual relations between our two countries are not just friendly, they are really friendly from historical perspective. As you said, our two peoples have many commonalities in terms of historical fate and they show great respect and love towards each other. We even owe our peoples since they expect from us more dynamic relations. By your invitation and this visit we, in fact, fill a gap, taking into account that such visit didnt take place for ten years. And this is the best precondition for development of our relations at all spheres. I am very happy that this visit will have a specific dimension. I expect today we will sign four very important cooperation documents. My delegation also includes four people who are presidents of the most important companies, and in this sense I expect that our relations will really intensify in commercial spheres, the Bulgarian President said.Barnaby Joyce's young lover Vikki Campion was engaged to her long-term boyfriend a year before she fell pregnant to the deputy prime minister.

Ms Campion, 33, was to marry media executive John Bergin in November 2016 but the couple split about August that year, shortly after Mr Joyce was re-elected to the seat of New England.

Ms Campion worked for Mr Joyce from May 2016 until May last year. She fell pregnant to the National Party leader a couple of months later, about a year after she and Mr Bergin parted ways.

Mr Joyce, 50, has left Natalie, his wife of 24 years, and set up home with Ms Campion.

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Barnaby Joyce's lover Vikki Campion pictured wearing an engagement ring in May 2016

Barnaby Joyce's pregnant lover Vikki Campion was engaged to journalist John Bergin (above)

Vikki Campion (left) is pregnant with Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce's (right) fifth child

Journalist John Bergin (above) was engaged to marry Vikki Campion in November 2016

Mr Bergin, 38, is a highly-regarded journalist, editor, digital strategist, communicator and project manager.

He was the managing digital editor for news and current affairs at SBS for three years until September 2016.

The former private schoolboy has worked for other Australian media companies including Sky News Australia, where he was director of digital news.

Mr Bergin and Ms Campion were in a relationship for several years before their engagement ended, shortly after Mr Joyce was re-elected to Parliament on July 2, 2016.

They had been due to be married at Bowral, in the New South Wales Southern Highlands on November 5, 2016 and set up a wedding registry for the big day.

'We split in August 2016 and we haven't spoken to each other since,' Mr Bergin said.

'I'm just a spectator in this, like everybody else.'

Daily Mail Australia has published pictures of Mr Joyce and Ms Campion enjoying each other's company in a Sydney bar on February 23 last year, six months after her split from Mr Bergin.

Vikki Campion, 33, (above) is about seven months pregnant to Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce, 50

Former digital news director at Sky News Australia John Bergin was engaged to Vikki Campion

Barnaby Joyce, 50, (pictured) is having a child with his former media adviser Vikki Campion, 33

A screen grab of a wedding registry listing for Vikki Campion and John Bergin from late 2016

Following her departure from Mr Joyce's office, Ms Campion worked for Resources Minister Matt Canavan, then Nationals MP Damian Drum.

She had previously worked as a senior adviser to New South Wales Police Minister Troy Grant when the Dubbo MP was deputy premier and was an adviser to Racing Minister Paul Toole when the Bathurst MP had the local government portfolio.

Prior to becoming a political staffer Ms Campion worked for eight years as a journalist with The Daily Telegraph, where she was on the news desk for seven months until July 2014.

Months before it was reported Ms Campion was pregnant to Mr Joyce she began withdrawing from public view.

On December 7 the Nationals leader used the parliamentary debate on same sex marriage to confirm he was no longer with Natalie, the mother of his four daughters.

Barnaby Joyce and Vikki Campion pictured in the Different Drummer bar at Glebe last year

Barnaby Joyce and Vikki Campion have moved into a townhouse in Armidale, northern NSW

Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce with his wife Natalie after he won the seat of New England in 2016

'I don't come to this debate pretending to be any saint or anything like that but I do believe in the current definition of marriage, which has stood the test of time,' Mr Joyce said.

'Half of them fail, I acknowledge that, I'm happy to acknowledge that I am currently separated so that is on the record.'

Mr Joyce moved out of his Tamworth family home in December and later moved into the Armidale townhouse he now shares with Ms Campion.

Mrs Joyce has said she felt 'deceived' by the news that Ms Campion is pregnant with her husband's child and claimed the relationship began when she was a paid staffer.

Mr Bergin, who went to the exclusive Barker College at Hornsby, on Sydney's upper north shore, did not wish to discuss his relationship with Ms Campion.

'I've got nothing to add to that particular situation,' Mr Bergin said. 'As you can well imagine.

'The only thing I will say is Vikki and I were never married.'

He had moved on with his life and had not spoken to Ms Campion since their separation.

'I'm as much a spectator to these issues as everyone else,' Mr Bergin said.

Online rumours about him being upset by last week's revelations and that Ms Campion had not returned an engagement ring had been 'made up'.

'I won't be commenting further,' Mr Bergin said.

Before becoming a journalist he worked as a baker, petrol station attendant, delicatessen hand, door-to-door salesman and office cleaner, according to an online profile.

He was also briefly a research intern in the office of then NSW treasurer Michael Costa in 2006.A highly-paid ANZ manager who stole more than $300,000 from the bank used junior staffers to do it, a court heard.

Victorian mother-of-two Tracey Cook, 44, tearfully pleaded guilty to obtaining property by deception on Thursday, as it was revealed she used the money to buy an investment property and a jet ski, as well as pay bills, news.com.au reported.

Court documents reveal Ms Cook asked staff members under her management to process 14 dishonoured cheques, with the money cashed out into accounts used to benefit her.

Mother-of-two Tracey Cook, 44, stole more than $300,000 from the bank she worked for to buy a jetski and an investment property, and to pay credit card and tax bills

The value of a dishonoured cheque is usually written off as it cannot be recovered.

The property Cook bought with the stolen $311,529.62 was across the road from her home in Melbourne's affluent inner-west,' The Herald Sun earlier reported.

Cook sobbed in court as she entered her guilty plea on Thursday, admitting to obtaining property by deception.

Her lawyer, David Galbally, argued she should not be jailed as it would have a negative effect on her daughters.

But Victorian County Court Judge Trevor Wraight disagreed and said Cook should be jailed.

'This is greed, it's absolute greed. It's jet skis and investment properties,' he said.

'I think the offending itself is right up there. It was to meet a lavish lifestyle of a family that was already in the top few per cent of earners in the country.'

Together with her husband, Cook was earning more than $500,000 annually at the time of her offending.

Cook started working at ANZ in 1997 before she was fired in August 2016 (stock image). She obtained the money by asking junior staffers to cash out dishonoured cheques

Cook managed more than 160 employees at the time she was caught.

A junior staff member found suspicious deposits from the bank to her husband's construction company and alerted Cook's bosses.

Cook started working at ANZ in 1997 before she was fired in August 2016.

After being confronted, she confessed immediately and repaid the money she stole.

Cook told investigators from the bank her family was 'living a life they did not have to live'.

She was refused bail, and is set to be sentenced on Friday.The mother of a teenage girl who took her own life after being prescribed a popular children's asthma medication has gone public with her story to help warn other parents.

Sara Hozen, 18, was prescribed Singulair, or Montelukast, three months before she died in May last year.

Her devastated mother Mary Hozen, an Australian living in Oregon, North America, said Sara showed no warning signs before her suicide.

Sara Hozen, 18, was prescribed Singulair, or Montelukast, three months before she died in May last year

Ms Hozen said her daughter planned a Europe trip with her sister upon graduating from highschool at the end of the year.

But Sara took her own life on the night of her prom.

'She had everything to look forward to,' Ms Hozen told Nine.com.au.

The asthma drug, Singulair, is commonly prescribed to children in Australia, with more than 200,000 prescriptions issued in 2016-2017.

The drug has been linked to mental illness in children, with some experiencing psychotic episodes.

Children as young as four have reportedly experienced suicidal thoughts.

Speaking out after her daughter's suicide, Ms Hozen said she never knew the devastating side-effects of the drug.

Ms Hozen said Sara suffered mild depression after the death of her brother a few years earlier, but said she didn't notice any red flags in the months leading up to her death.

'She just spiralled so quickly and suddenly,' she said.

Ms Hozen said her daughter Sara (pictured) planned a Europe trip with her sister upon graduating from highschool at the end of the year

Ms Hozen revealed Sara experienced paranoia in the lead up to her death but never told anyone the severity of her declining health.

'I feel bad that she didn't share it with us openly. She thought something was wrong but she didn't portray that to us. She kept it quiet. She was trying to figure it out for herself but she couldn't.'

Ms Hozen said there was no doubt in her mind the medication triggered Sara's mental health issues and her ultimate suicide.

The drug was also linked to the death of a 15-year-old boy who had no history of mental illness.

US-born Cody Miller took his own life in 2008 after being prescribed the drug.

In Australia, doctors are required to warn parents of the side-effects before prescribing children with the drug.

The National Asthma Council of Australia urged parents not to stop their child's medication without first speaking to their doctor, because untreated asthma can be life-threatening.

Ms Hozen said there was no doubt in her mind the medication triggered Sara's (pictured) mental health issues and her ultimate suicide

University of New South Wales respiratory paediatrician Professor Adam Jaffe said the medication was extremely effective.

'It is a highly effective medication for many children with asthma and has an excellent safety record. Thousands of children have taken the medication without any problems,' he wrote for The National Asthma Council of Australia.

'Researchers have been investigating this issue for many years and have not come up with a conclusive answer. The latest studies have not confirmed causality between this drug and behaviour-related side-effects.'

One study claims the WHO global database, VigiBase, reported depression was the most common adverse effect of the drug up to 2016.

Following depression was headaches, aggression, suicidal ideation, insomnia and anxiety.Malcolm Turnbull says neither he nor his office had any role in creating a job for Barnaby Joyce's girlfriend.

The deputy prime minister is facing questions over the process in which his now-partner Vikki Campion took a senior advisor job in the office of Nationals whip Damian Drum while Mr Joyce was embroiled in the citizenship fiasco last year.

Mr Drum's taxpayer-funded staffing allocation was reportedly boosted by one to accommodate Ms Campion.

Mr Joyce is expecting a child with Ms Campion after it was revealed he with his wife of 24-years, Natalie, with whom he shares four children.

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Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull (pictured) said on Monday neither he nor his office had any role in creating a job for Barnaby Joyce's girlfriend

A spokesman for the prime minister said Mr Joyce (pictured) had not breached ministerial standards because Ms Campion was not the deputy prime minister's 'partner' at the time of her appointments to the offices of Matt Canavan and Mr Drum

Mr Joyce is expecting a child with Ms Campion after it was revealed he with his wife of 24-years, Natalie, with whom he shares four children (pictured together)

Shadow attorney-general Mark Dreyfus asked the prime minister in parliament on Monday whether he or his office was involved in creating the position for Ms Campion.

Mr Turnbull said the Nationals were provided with a specific number of personal staff positions as a share of the government's overall staffing pool.

'The distribution of those staff members between Nationals offices is a matter for the National Party,' Mr Turnbull said.

'At no time did the Nationals fill all vacant staffing positions.'

The prime minister said Mr Joyce had made it clear the employment of Ms Campion was never discussed with him or the prime minister's office.

However the prime minister's office 'has an administrative role in informing the department of Finance of changes', Mr Turnbull said.

A spokesman for the prime minister said Mr Joyce had not breached ministerial standards in regard to the employment of partners because Ms Campion was not the deputy prime minister's 'partner' at the time of her appointments to the offices of Matt Canavan and Mr Drum.

There is mounting pressure on Mr Turnbull to ask Mr Joyce to step down following his relationship with Ms Campion.

There is mounting pressure on Mr Turnbull to ask Mr Joyce to step down following his relationship with Ms Campion

Mr Joyce, 50, and his former staffer Vikki Campion, 33, (pictured) were recently given the keys to the three-bedroom townhouse

Speaking on the Today show on Monday, Political Editor Chris Uhlmann said there was 'growing discontent' in the National Party, with party elders believing Mr Joyce was doing irreparable brand damage.

'One more mistake by Barnaby Joyce would see him lose his job,' Mr Uhlmann said.

While there were calls for Mr Turnbull to urge Mr Joyce to step down, the decision rests with the National Party.

'There will be a frank exchange in the National Party room today,' Mr Uhlmann said on Monday.

Appearing on The Project on Sunday night, political commentator Barrie Cassidy said Mr Joyce's relationship with former staffer Vikki Campion had turned into a 'toxic issue'.

'Not the affair itself, that's nobody's business. But it's the management of it, it's been so sloppy,' he said.

When Mr Cassidy was asked if there were any more 'revelations' involving the Deputy Prime Minister yet to surface, the conversation turned awkward.

Appearing on The Project on Sunday night, Barry Cassidy (pictured) was asked if there were any more 'revelations' involving the Deputy Prime Minister that were yet to surface

Mr Cassidy said 'there might be something' but refused to comment saying it could not be substantiated.

'I really don't know enough about it to be able to talk about it on television. Seriously, this stuff has to stack up before you start reporting it,' he said.

'But this is not the end of it.'

Meanwhile, Mr Joyce's career is 'over' according to prominent media commentator Nikki Savva.

The Canberra insider, whose husband works for the Prime Minister, told ABC Insiders the 'sun is setting' on the Nationals leader's career.

'I think his career is over, maybe not in the short term, but certainly in the medium term,' she told the program.

'I would not expect to see Barnaby leading the Nationals into the next election.

'I just think the sun is setting on his career, and I can't see how he can survive.'

The media commentator also revealed a lot more Freedom of Information requests have been lodged.

Canberra Insider Nikki Savva speculated Barnaby Joyce's career may be over on television

'That would be the finish if something came out about misuse,' she said.

Ms Savva also could not see the point of the Deputy Prime Minister's appearance on the ABC 7.30 Program.

'My understanding is they tried to talk him out of it, because they could not see the point of him going on to say it was a private matter,' she said.

'He could have got out of it a bit better I thought if he had gone on and said, 'I really regret the pain that I have inflicted on my family, on my wife Natalie, and on my four daughters, I still really love my daughters.'

Ms Savva has been generally a strong supporter of the Turnbull Government in the media and a critic of former Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Mr Joyce and Ms Campion have reportedly moved into a townhouse gifted by the deputy PM's multi-millionaire friend.

The pair will be reportedly living rent-free for six months - saving a whopping $14,000 - in the New England property owned by businessman Greg Maguire, The Australian reports.

Mr Joyce moved out of his Tamworth family home in December and later moved into the townhouse he now shares with Ms Campion.

It was also revealed Ms Campion was moved to a $191,000-a-year senior advisor position on senator Matt Canavan's payroll after her relationship with Mr Joyce became the subject of rumour, the publication alleges.

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting any wrongdoing on behalf of Mr Joyce, Ms Campion or Mr Maguire.

Mr Joyce moved out of his Tamworth family home in December and later moved into the townhouse he now shares with Ms Campion

The two are expecting a child together after it was revealed Mr Joyce split with his wife of 24-years, Natalie, with whom he shares four children

The Deputy Prime Minister was photographed with Ms Campion at a bar in inner-west Glebe, Sydney on February 23, 2017

Independent MP Cathy McGowan has called for legislation to be introduced to Parliament to ban politicians entering relationships with staffers.

But Foreign Minister Julie Bishop told media it would be 'very difficult' to draft legislation that could cross so easily into people's private lives.

'Government has no business interfering in people's personal lives, we wouldn't want to,' she said.

Mr Joyce's marital breakdown became public knowledge late last year when he returned to Parliament as Deputy Prime Minister.

Natalie Joyce said she felt 'deceived' by the news that Ms Campion is pregnant with her husband's fifth child and claimed the relationship began when she was a paid staffer.

Mr Joyce's marital breakdown became public knowledge late last year when he returned to Parliament as Deputy PM

The Deputy PM's wife Natalie said she and her children were 'devastated'

It was revealed Mr Joyce is expecting his fifth child with his former staffer after his marriage breakdown

'The situation is devastating, for my girls who are affected by the family breakdown and for me as a wife of 24 years who placed my own career on hold to support Barnaby through his political life,' she said in a statement.

'Our family has had to be shared during Barnaby's political career and it was with trust that we let campaign and office staff into our home and into our lives.

Naturally we feel deceived and hurt by the actions of Barnaby and the staff member involved.'

Mr Joyce was photographed with Ms Campion at Different Drummer, a bar in inner-west Glebe, on February 23, 2017.

Photos obtained by Daily Mail Australia show the pair looking happy together almost a year before Mr Joyce's marriage break up and affair was revealed.Five people have been arrested after the seizure of weapons and drugs in early-morning raids in Melbourne's west.

Police executed drug search warrants and raided three properties on Guest Avenue, Albanvale around 7 am Monday morning.

Three men, aged between 44 and 49, and two 54-year-old women were charged with a range of weapons, explosives and drug offences.

Police raided three properties in Albanvale, seizing a cache of weapons, explosives and illicit drugs

Two of the culprits received bail, and will face the Sunshine Magistrates' Court in June

Knives and a firearm, along with cannabis and ecstasy tablets were confiscated in the raid.

Two of the group have been bailed, and will appear in front of Sunshine Magistrates' Court in June.

The other three will face Sunshine Magistrates' Court later on Monday, all to be charged with trafficking or possessing a drug of dependence.Tamborine woman Paula Kaye Ford shelled out almost $2000 to attend seminars on 'magical stones' and natural healing by Sydney-based 'healer' Donovan Rock More

A man claiming to be the 'Einstein of natural health' has been forced to refund a woman more than $1,800 after she complained that his methods didn't work.

Tamborine woman Paula Kaye Ford shelled out almost $2000 to attend seminars on 'magical stones' and healing by Sydney-based 'healer' Donovan Rock More.

He claimed that he would be able to heal her pain and help her recover from the breakdown of her 36-year marriage using only 'stones and affirmation'.

After twelve months of using More's stones and leaflets to try and cure her crippling back pain - and failing - she returned the items and refuse to pay her outstanding balance of $1,800.

Self-proclaimed 'Einstein of natural health' Donovan Rock More has been forced to refund a woman more than $1,800 after she complained that his 'magic stone' methods didn't work

Dr More took Ms Ford to a Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) for the unpaid fees, but his claim spectacularly backfired when Ms Ford decided to counterclaim for the failure of his 'magical stones' to heal her as she as promised.

The court also found that Dr More had 'taken advantage of the vulnerable' when he charged Ms Ford a total of $3,600 to attend his workshops.

'I find that Ms Ford was so misled and deceived, that the goods i.e. the stones in combination with the leaflets and education, and the services, did not match the implied guarantees,' the QCAT judgment by Adjudicator Alan Walsh reads.

The full judgement explains how Ms Ford spent more than a year trying to cure her migraines, back, neck and shoulder pain, chronic fatigue, exhaustion and depression using the methods detailed.

The document orders Dr More to reimburse Ms Ford $1860, and pay a further $112.50 for her court costs.

'I've tried everything, I've done all these different affirmations and nothing has actually worked,' Ms Ford explained at the QCAT hearing.

'And it took me, because of where I was at the time, a period of time to settle into an understanding, if you will. That's the only way I can explain it.'

The document orders Dr More to reimburse Ms Ford $1860 and reimburse her for court costs

Ms Ford also explains in the judgement that she thought Dr More was a qualified medical doctor - but in fact he only has an online PhD in 'religious studies'.

'Ms Ford says that Dr More preys on the vulnerable people who are ill, in pain or dying, taking large sums of money for miraculous remedies that have no medically proven healing properties or established benefits,' the document reads.

However, Dr More defended himself against Ms Ford's accusations, claiming that the reason she hadn't recovered is that she didn't follow his instructions correctly.

'They're not natural stones ... and are made by Terry Downey in New Zealand from sources around the world ... but it depends where they zap them, and many of them are zapped all in one place,' Dr More explained during the QCAT hearing.

He claims on his website to have been bitten by a small, brown snake at the age of 59, but 'breathed' himself better without medical intervention.Advertisement

Disturbing CCTV footage appears to show the devastating moment a Russian passenger plane crashed near Moscow, killing all 71 people aboard after 'nosediving' from the sky.

The Saratov Airlines regional jet disappeared from radar screens at 2.28pm (11.28GMT) on Sunday a few minutes after taking off from Domodedovo Airport on Sunday.

The An-148 plane crashed, with 65 passengers and six crew aboard, en route to Orsk, a city in the Urals, around 1,000 miles southeast of the capital.

Shocking drone video of the crash site shows how little is left of the plane on the snowy field, where more than 450 body parts have now been collected.

Separate footage taken from a surveillance camera near where the crash occurred picked up a fireball and trail of smoke and flames either at or close to ground level.

Experts said today that the crash may have been caused by the collapse of the plane's anti-icing system leading to possible ice in the engine. There was no mayday or alert from chief pilot Valery Gubanov that the plane, which plunged from 5,900 ft, was in trouble.

This morning it was revealed that 22-year-old Daria Tolmasova, the fiancee of Vladivostok ice hockey star Sergey Ilyin, was among the dead.

Disturbing CCTV footage appears to show the devastating moment the Russian passenger plane crashed near Moscow on Sunday, killing all 71 people aboard and scattering jagged chunks of wreckage across a snowy field

From a distance overlooking a snowy landscape, a surveillance camera suddenly picks up a fireball and trail of smoke and flames either at or close to ground level

This morning it emerged that 22-year-old Daria Tolmasova, the fiancee of Vladivostok ice hockey star Sergey Ilyin, was among the dead

The agent of Sergey Ilyin (right), defender with Admiral ice hockey club in Vladivostok, said the player had been struck with 'terrible grief' over the death of his fiancee Daria Tolmasova (left)

Emergency workers explore the site of a AN-148 plane crash in Stepanovskoye village, about 25 miles from the Domodedovo airport. Emergency teams combed the snowy fields outside Moscow on Monday, searching for debris

Discovery: A flight recorder found at the crash site of a Saratov Airlines Antonov An-148 flight in Moscow Region

Russian rescuers today worked at the crash site today as they searched for clues in the wake of the tragedy

Eyewitnesses insisted the plane broke up into pieces mid-air before plunging into the field. But investigators have said today that the plane was intact when it 'suddenly nosedived' from 5,900 ft and that an explosion came when it struck the surface, not earlier, as had been believed.

'It was found out that at the time the aircraft fell it was whole, without fire, the explosion happened after the impact,' the Russian Investigative Committee's spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko .

Citing aviation sources Kommersant newspaper reported: 'Having climbed to an approximate altitude of 1,800 meters (5,900 ft) at a speed of about 600 kilometres per hour (375 mph), the plane suddenly nosedived to an altitude of 1,500 metres (4925ft), climbed again, and then fell on the ground.

'The last time air traffic controllers saw it on their screens was at 2:28 p.m. when the plane was flying an altitude of about 900 metres (2950 ft)'.

The newspaper reported the most likely causes as 'an engine fire, a speed sensor failure, icing, or pilot error.'

Russian investigators today found the second black box as they try to understand the cause of the air tragedy. Investigators have also identified some 397 parts of the Antonov jet.

But drone footage from the Russian Investigative Committee shows the extent to which the the plane - en route from Moscow to Orsk, a city close to Kazakhstan - has simply vanished after the crash.

'Where is it?' asked one pilot.

Falling snow has covered the site, yet investigators and salvage workers are struck by the lack of large fragments of the Russian-made Antonov.

A source for RBC news agency had earlier said that investigators were considering all possible causes, including terrorism.

'This theory is unlikely to become the main one since bomb technicians who carried out an express analysis of some of the aircraft debris, found no micro-particles of explosives', the source said.

An aviation source told Moskovsky Komsomolets: 'Judging by the photos taken at the place of the tragedy, the pieces of the aircraft are strewn across a vast territory.

'However, such a thing never happens when an aircraft falls on its own and, as a rule, the debris lies in one place.

Shocking drone video of the crash site shows how little is left of the plane on the snowy field, where more than 450 body parts have now been collected

Drone footage from the Russian Investigative Committee shows the extent to which the the plane - en route from Moscow to Orsk, a city close to Kazakhstan - has simply vanished after the crash

Falling snow has covered the site, yet investigators and salvage workers are struck by the lack of large fragments of the Russian-made Antonov

Grim task: Russian officials have been scouring the snowy field for aircraft debris and human remains as an investigation into the tragedy gathered pace

A helicopter comes into land as hundreds of officials continued to examine the scene this afternoon close to Moscow

There was no mayday or alert from chief pilot Valery Gubanov (pictured) that the plane was in trouble. Experts believe he may have steered his stricken plane away from villages as part of a desperate attempt to make an emergency landing

Chief energy engineer Vladimir Normantovich and his son Alexander died in the crash. Vladimir was 60, his son (pictured) 36

Other passengers named among the victims of the plane crash include 28-year-old Ulyana Son (pictured)

Another victim Tatiana Sinitsyna was heading to Orsk via Moscow from Turkey where her daughter and little granddaughter lived

Among the victims was 33-year-old Ilya Slavsky (pictured). Experts said today that the crash may have been caused by the collapse of the plane's anti-icing system leading to possible ice in the engine

'That could mean the destruction of the aircraft happened in the air and not when it hit the ground. That also indirectly indicates the probability of an explosion on board.'

Veteran civilian and Russian air force pilot Vitaly Sokolovsky told Gazeta.ru added that terrorism should not be excluded.

'Of course modern security systems in airports these days do not allow any stranger to get in, particularly with a bomb. But so far no single cause should be excluded.

'Moreover, there is information that the crew failed to report the emergency situation on board and did not request emergency landing. It means something extraordinary took place on board, an incident that made pilots fight for lives of passengers.'

However, some believe a failure in deicing was the most likely the cause of the tragedy.

Alfred Malinovsky, vice president of the Russian pilots trade union told Interfax: 'The crash of the An-148 may have been caused by the collapse of the anti-icing system of the engine. Usually, crashes come as a result of multiple factors, several minor issues, each of them can be fatal.

'This time it is more likely to have been an explosion but it is not necessarily a criminal act. Icing is very likely (the cause). The air temperature is slightly below zero, humidity was high.

'If the anti-icing system collapses, some part of ice may get into the engine and it may result in an explosion. A huge hole on the ground means that the plane fell vertically. The crew did not have time to report the disaster.

Overhead images show the crash site - and reveal how little of the aircraft remained intact after it smashed down in a fireball on Sunday

Rescuers have descended on the snow-covered fields as they look for clues into the cause of the tragedy

Experts believed that a 'huge explosion' heard by locals came when the plane crashed to the ground, rather than in midair

The wreckage of a AN-148 plane is seen in Stepanovskoye village, about 25 miles from the Domodedovo airport, Russia

A part of a Saratov Airlines Antonov AN-148 plane that crashed after taking off from Moscow's Domodedovo airport, is seen at the scene of the incident outside Moscow, on Sunday

Witnesses described seeing the plane 'breaking in the sky' before it came crashing down after taking off from Moscow

Footage from the crash site showed parts of the plane in the snow after it came down near Moscow shortly after take-off

'Some event came all of a sudden and was very quick.'

The authorities say the preparations for the flight were normal but Meduza news outlet reported that the captain had not called for deicing of the plane before takeoff. However airport officials said anti-icing liquids was applied 'as it is a routine procedure'.

A source told Tass: 'The latest information is that the plane broke up from crashing into land, not in the air as earlier versions suggested.

'The type of damage on land, a funnel-shaped trace left by the plane indicates a possible strong impact from the plane hitting the ground. The way the plane broke into pieces also confirms it happened not in the air, but from hitting the ground.'

The plane ascended normally to 5,900 ft from Moscow's Domodedovo Airport before 'suddenly' descending to 4,900ft. Then it climbed again to 5,900 ft before immediately rapidly descending.

Some experts believe 'the pilots had time to deliberately steer the plane towards a large field so that it didn't hurt people who live in the area, where there are a number of villages'.

Chief pilot Valery Gubanov was an experienced pilot especially on the An-148.

'He had a record of over 5,000 flight hours, including 2,147 hours of piloting An-148 aircraft,' said a spokesman for Saratov Airlines.

'Second pilot Sergey Arsenovich Gambaryan (born May 14, 1973) had a record of 812 flight hours piloting this type of aircraft.'

Radio contact was lost four minutes after takeoff. The doomed plane had made 'several flights' in the 24 hours before the crash, all without problems.

There were no 'technical deviations' before the Orsk flight, said the airline.

Nadezhda Krasova, five, the youngest victim in the crash, died along with her mother Oksana Krasova (pictured together)

Several other children were killed in the crash, including 12-year-old Evgeny Livanov (pictured) and Ilya Poletayev, 17

Flight crew member Anastasia Slavinskaya, 29, (left) and second pilot Sergey Gambaryan, 34, both died in the plane crash

Among the dead was 22-year-old Daria Tolmasova, from Novosibirsk, fiancee of Sergey Ilyin, defender with Admiral ice hockey club in Vladivostok. His agent Shumi Babayev spoke of the player's 'terrible grief'.

'She was only 22 years old. We express our most heartfelt condolences to our friend and his family. Stay strong Sergei.'

Another victim Tatiana Sinitsyna was heading to Orsk via Moscow from Turkey where her daughter and little granddaughter lived.

Olympic skating star's tribute to victims Russian Olympic figure skating team captain Ekaterina Bobrova has paid an emotional tribute to victims, saying that despite securing a silver medal 'it's a dark day for us'. The 27-year-old led the Olympic Athletes from Russia (OAR) to silver in the team event behind Canada, their second medal of the Games. Russian Olympic figure skating team captain Ekaterina Bobrova (pictured) has paid an emotional tribute to victims 'For me it's difficult to say the following as we are very happy that we won but in our country there was an air crash last night - 71 people perished,' she said. Her voice cracking she continued: 'As team captain and on behalf of all the coaches I would like to convey my sincere condolences to the families, it's a great sorrow for our country. 'With this tragedy it's a dark day for us, a day of sorrow.' Advertisement

Chief energy engineer Vladimir Normantovich and his son Alexander died in the crash. Vladimir was 60, his son 36.

Swiss national Ulrih Klauein was travelling to Orsk to install a new piece of machinery at Orsk Oil and Gas Synthesis factory.

A five-year-girl named Nadezhda Krasova was the youngest victim. She died along with her 32-year-old mother Oksana Krasova.

Like many of the victims, Nadezhda and her mother were from Orsk, in Orenburg region, which will mark a day of mourning on Monday.

Also among the dead were Evgeny Livanov, 12, and Ilya Poletayev, 17, according to local reports. Stewardesses Anastasia Slavinskaya, 29, Viktoria Koval, 21, and second pilot Sergey Gambaryan, 34, also died.

Other passengers who died included Ulyana Son, 28, Kriskentia Alexeenko, 25, and doctor Lyudmila Kovchuga, 53, also died.

The governor of the Orenburg region, where the plane was flying to, told Russian media that 'more than 60 people' on board the plane were from the region.

However, Russian sources said foreigners from Switzerland, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan were also on the doomed flight. A British embassy spokesman said they were not aware of any British victims.

Aviation website FlightRadar reported the aircraft was last measured falling at a rate of 22,000ft per minute.

Fragments from the Antonov An-148 airliner were found in the Ramenskoye area, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the airport. Footage on state television showed them strewn across a snowy field with no buildings nearby.

Transport Minister Maxim Sokolov said Sunday afternoon that 'judging by everything, no one has survived this crash.' Russia's Investigative Committee said all possible causes were being explored.

The crew did not report any problems prior to the plane falling out of the sky, Russian sources say.

'No reports about technical malfunctions were received from the plane's crew,' said Svetlana Petrenko of the Russian Investigative Committee which has launched a criminal investigation into the crash.

Airport staff in Moscow were tonight being quizzed over the way the plane was prepared for its flight, she said.

'Investigators are questioning employees of Moscow's Domodedovo airport who were engaged to prepare the plane for the flight. A similar inspection is conducted at the airport's air traffic control service.'

State television aired a video of the crash site, showing parts of the wreckage in the snow.

The plane crash left a crater more than 8ft deep and 60ft in diameter, but debris was said to be scattered over more than a half-mile radius.

Second pilot Sergey Gambaryan, 34, (pictured) was also on the flight and died on Sunday

Ms Slavinskaya (pictured) was one of the six staff members who were working on the doomed flight

The 29-year-old was working on the plane when it came down and crashed shortly after taking off

The 29-year-old (pictured) was killed when the plane crashed just minutes after taking off

'I heard a noise... like a roar. It was quite unusual,' an eyewitness called Alexey said.

'You know, it sounds very strange when no one is around, when you hear such an unusual roar... I put on my shoes and rushed outside. And I sawan explosion. So big, there was such a cloud.

'Mushroom-shaped, like a nuclear explosion in miniature. The fragments were flying, burning. One of them was flew right onto me.'

Alexey Besedin, chief of 127 Fire and Rescue brigade, was first to arrive at the scene said: 'It was very hard to get to the site which is in a snow covered open field.

'There were no paths, only later did heavy machinery blaze roads to the site. Fire engines couldn't get through, we all had to walk in waist-high thick snow for about 600, 700 metres. The wind was very strong, visibility was bad because of wet snow.

'When we finally broke through the snow, we rushed to look for survivors. We found small bits of fuselage thrown in a radius of about a kilometre.'

In the crater 'we found fragments of bodies and pieces of the plane'.

'This was the hardest plane crash I ever came across,' he said. The clean-up operation at the site will take one week, said officials and a criminal probe has been launched into the crash.

Fragments of the plane will be delivered to Moscow and re-assembled at Gromov military airport in Zhukovsky, Moscow region.

'We are aiming to start aerial shooting of the area. We'll map the crash site, documenting all fragments of the plane, and then re-assemble them in Zhukovsky,' an official said.

Meanwhile, a couple have revealed how they cheated death after deciding to change their tickets at the last minute because a new car wasn't ready.

Businessman Maxim Kolomeytsev, who turned 35 today, and his girlfriend Nazezha, 25, had tickets for the doomed flight.

'I lost 10,000 roubles (125) on making the change, but we've got our lives,' he said. 'I wanted to celebrate my birthday with my relatives in Orsk,' he said.

But he also intended to buy himself a car in his home city to mark his 35th birthday.

He said: 'The car was delayed. The showroom said it wasn't ready. We had bought the tickets for me and my girlfriend. But when I found out the car was not ready I delayed the trip by a week.'

Stewardess Viktoria Koval, 21, (pictured) was also killed while she was working on Sunday morning

Maxim Kolomeytsev and his girlfriend Nazezha (pictured together) had tickets for the doomed flight but decided to change them at the last minute

A video filmed by local boys showed wreckage in the snow and debris was found spread over a 'large area'. One source added: 'It appears the plane began to fall apart in the sky.'

An emergencies ministry source told Interfax: 'The plane crashed near the village of Argunovo. The crew and passengers had no chance.

'The plane vanished from radar minutes after taking off from Domodedovo Airport in Moscow.'

Russia has seen record high snowfalls in recent days and visibility was reportedly poor at the time of the crash.

However, investigators are likely to be looking for other explanations if witness reports are correct that the aircraft suffered a catastrophic structural failure in mid-air.

Russian President Vladimir Putin put off a planned trip to Sochi in order to closely monitor the investigation.

Putin was to meet Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas on Monday in the Black Sea resort, where the president has an official residence.

Instead, Abbas will meet with Putin in Moscow in the latter part of Monday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Russian news agencies.

The plane came down in Argunovo (pictured) shortly after taking off from Moscow on Sunday

Emergency responders working at the site of plane crash in Ramensky district, on the outskirts of Moscow

Police stand guard near the site of a passenger plane crash outside Moscow on Sunday. All 71 aboard the jet were killed

DISASTERS THAT HAVE BEFALLEN RUSSIAN AIRLINERS - Feb. 11, 2017: An Antonov-148 regional jet operated by Saratov Airlines crashes shortly after take-off from Moscow's Domodedovo Airport with 71 passengers and crew aboard. No survivors are reported. - Dec. 25, 2016: A Tupolev-154 operated by the Russian Defense Ministry en route to Syria crashes into the Black Sea minutes after takeoff from Sochi. All 92 people on board are believed dead and the cause of the crash isn't immediately known. - Oct. 31, 2015: An onboard bomb destroys a Metrojet airliner soon after its takeoff from Egypt's Sharm al-Sheikh resort. All 224 people on board die. - Nov. 17, 2013: All 50 people aboard a Tatarstan Airlines Boeing 737 are killed when the crew sends the plane into a steep dive while trying to land in Kazan. - May 10, 2012: A Sukhoi Superjet on a demonstration flight for potential buyers smashes into a volcano in Indonesia while carrying 45 people. There are no survivors. - April 2, 2012: A UTAir ATR-72 crashes shortly after takeoff from Tyumen; 33 are killed, 10 survive. Poor de-icing of the plane is blamed. - Sept. 7, 2011: A Yakovev-42 carrying the Yaroslavl Lokomotiv hockey team crashes soon after takeoff from Yaroslavl, killing all 44 aboard. - June 20, 2011: Forty-seven people die when a Tu-134 crashes on a highway in heavy fog while trying to land in Petrozavodsk. - Sept. 14, 2008: 88 people are killed when a Boeing 737 flying from Moscow crashes as it prepares to land in Perm. - Aug. 22, 2006: A Tu-154 of Russia's Pulkovo Airlines crashes in Ukraine. All 170 people on board are killed. - July 9, 2006: An A310 belonging to Russian company S7 skids off the runway after landing in Irkutsk and bursts into flames. All 125 aboard killed. - April 24, 2004: 90 people are killed when female suicide bombers blow up two Russian airliners after takeoff from Domodedovo. Chechen rebels claim responsibility. Advertisement

The An-148 was developed by Ukraine's Antonov company in the early 2000s and manufactured in both Ukraine and Russia.

Russian state news agency Tass said the plane that crashed had been flying since 2010, with a two-year break because of a shortage of parts.

The plane was ordered by Rossiya Airlines, a subsidiary of Aeroflot, but was put into storage between 2015 and 2017 because of the parts shortage. Tass reported that it re-entered service for Saratov Airlines in February 2017.

Initial Russian reports blamed weather or human error, but it was unclear how these squared with claims that the plane broke up in the sky.

Ilya Poletayev, 17, (pictured) was on the plane when it came down and crashed in a field

Lyudmila Kovchuga (pictured) was one of the 71 people who boarded the plane in Moscow today

Kriskentia Alexeenko, 25, (right) and Ulyana Son, 28, (left) were also killed after boarding the doomed plane

Huge pieces of debris could be seen on the ground where the plane came down on Sunday

Chilling video footage and images show parts of the plane on the snow-covered ground south east of Moscow

Members from the emergency services worked at the scene where 71 people died after the plane crashed

Emergency services rushed to the fields to try and save passengers and staff on the plane

Flight 6W703 went missing just minutes after tasking off from Domodedovo Airport (pictured)

A source at Domodedovo, Moscow's second largest airport, told agencies that the plane disappeared from radars within two minutes of take-off. Prosecutors have opened an investigation into Saratov Airlines following the crash.

Shabby equipment and poor supervision had plagued Russian civil aviation for years after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, but its safety record has improved markedly in recent years.

The last large-scale crash in Russia occurred on December 25, 2016, when a Tu-154 operated by the Russian Defense Ministry on its way to Syria crashed into the Black Sea minutes after take-off from the southern Russian city of Sochi.

All 92 people on board were killed in a crash that was later blamed on pilot error. The plane was carrying Russia's famed Red Army Choir who had been due to give a concert to Russian troops in Syria.

In March 2016, a Boeing 737-800 flown by FlyDubai crashed while landing at Rostov-on-Don, killing all 62 people aboard.

An onboard bomb destroyed a Russian Metrojet airliner soon after taking off from Egypt's Sharm al-Sheikh resort, killing 224 people in October 2015.

The Antonov An-148 plane (stock image) came down less than 10 minutes after taking off from Moscow

The plane was operated by Saratov Airlines and had just left shortly after taking off from Moscow Domodedovo Airport (pictured)A person of interest in the disappearance of William Tyrrell has been filmed exploding at a television reporter.

Tony Jones, 62, was being questioned about his alibi at the time William vanished when he lost his temper and squared off with the TV crew.

William, who would now be six-years-old, tragically vanished from the yard of his foster grandmother's home on the New South Wales north coast on September 12, 2014.

Scroll down for video

Person of interest in the disappearance of William Tyrrell, Tony Jones (pictured, right) has been filmed exploding at a television reporter

William (pictured), who would now be six-years-old, tragically vanished for the yard of his foster grandmother's home on the New South Wales north coast on September 12, 2014

'You want it smashed? You want it smashed?' shouted Jones as he charged towards a camera filming the encounter for A Current Affair.

Moments earlier Jones had lost his temper while being asked about his whereabouts by Steve Marshall.

'I just told you where I was, fool!' Jones shouts in the reporter's face before screaming 'Go! Go!' and threatening to break the camera.

Anthony 'Tony' Jones - originally from Wellington, in the New South Wales central west - was jailed for the aggravated assault of an 11-year-old girl in 2015.

The 62-year-old pleaded guilty to two child sex offences, with the District Court hearing his abuse of the girl had gone on for 'some time'.

Tony Jones (pictured), 62, was being questioned about his alibi at the time William vanished when he lost his temper and squared off with the TV crew

'You want it smashed? You want it smashed?' shouted Jones (pictured, right) as he charged towards a camera filming the encounter

He was sentenced to a total three year sentence but Judge Leonie Flannery ordered he be released on supervised parole after two years behind bars, on September 26, 2016.

Jones has denied any involvement following William's disappearance, claiming he was 'out bush' collecting scrap metal the day the toddler vanished.

He was living in Wauchope, about 20 minutes' drive north of the coastal suburb of Kendall where William was staying.

Police have identified hundreds of persons of interest in the Tyrrell investigation and Jones is one of only a few to have been publicly named.

Jones (pictured, left, right) has denied any involvement following William's disappearance, claiming he was 'out bush' collecting scrap metal the day the toddler vanished

William, who was three when he vanished, has not been found despite a $1million reward for information.

It was only revealed last year that the little boy was in foster care at the time he went missing.

Police have ruled out the involvement of William's foster or biological parents.

William (pictured), who was three when he vanished, has not been found despite a $1million reward for information

William's mother Karlie Tyrrell (pictured) was arrested in December after screaming at police repeatedly spitting in an officer's face at a Sydney shopping centre

His biological father Brendan Clifford, 35, was sentenced to seven months in prison for drug and theft offences, and his mother.

William's mother Karlie Tyrrell was arrested in December after screaming at police repeatedly spitting in an officer's face at a Sydney shopping centre.

Daily Mail Australia contacted New South Wales Police for comment.A science fair project in California has drawn the ire of many after the project called the intelligence of non-whites into question.

The project, titled 'Race and IQ', hypothesized that non-white students do not have the same innate intelligence of their white and northeast Asian peers.

The project originated in Sacramento's CK McClatchy High School's academically rigorous Humanities and International Studies Program (HISP) - and it asked whether non-white students were up to the task of the program's demands.

The project also asserted that if the average IQ of white and northeast Asian students is higher than those of other backgrounds, than the lack of ethnic diversity in the HISP program is justified.

The project hypothesized that non-white students do not have the same innate intelligence of their white and northeast Asian peers

The controversial project was put on display at McClatchy's science fair last Monday

The controversial project was put on display at McClatchy's science fair last Monday - it remained on display until Wednesday, when the school removed it after a round of complaints. It was in plain view both parents and students.

'Race and IQ' also used source material that was over a century old and argued that South African blacks were mentally inferior to South African whites.

'I think that a lot of people, especially of color, are really hurt and upset by this,' said Chrysanthe Vidal, a senior in the HISP program to the Sacramento Bee.

Although the school hasn't identified the student behind the project because he's a minor, Vidal said he has a history of making racist comments and is of Asian descent.

The HISP program teaches students by widening their cultural horizons - but of the 508 students in the program, just 12 are African-American, as opposed to 80 Hispanic students and 104 Asian students. The rest are white.

'It's just kind of shocking to think someone could enter into that program knowing that is what we are learning about and being so closed-minded,' said one McClatchy freshman.

The school hasn't identified the student behind the project because he's a minor (CK McClatchy high school, pictured above)

Sacramento Unified school district spokesman Alex Barrios said the district was aware of the controversy and is looking into the matter. Barrios said that the investigation will determine whether the idea violated any school district rules.

'No student should ever be made to feel that their race has anything to do with their ability to succeed,' Sacramento Unified school district superintendent Jorge Aguilar said.

'I want to be clear that at McClatchy High School we promote and embrace an inclusive environment and way of thinking which excludes any form of discrimination,' principal Peter Lambert said in email to parents wrote. 'Many of you have asked me what our school is doing in response to this incident.

'I want you to know we are taking this incident very seriously and we will be reviewing the incident and implementing all measures as appropriate to provide a safe and inclusive environment for all of our students.Court documents filed with the Albany Supreme Court this week accuse Lt. Troy Mitchell Pictured) of shackling two inmates and pouring pales of water over their mouths

A New York prison guard is under investigation after allegations emerged that he waterboarded two inmates and savagely assaulted their genitals.

Court documents filed with the Albany Supreme Court this week accuse Lt. Troy Mitchell of shackling two inmates and pouring pales of water over their mouths at the Auburn Correctional Facility in separate incidents stemming from last year.

The allegations leveled against Mitchell also state that he punched, grabbed, twisted and beat their testicles with a baton.

One incident allegedly transpired on Sept. 14, 2016 against prisoner Matthew Raymond, who was injured so gravely that he is still forced to urinate with a catheter, according to his lawyer, Joan Magoolaghan.

'Relentless in his attack, Lt. Mitchell then directed a corrections officer to spread Mr. Raymond's legs apart, after which the lieutenant forcefully grabbed and twisted Mr. Raymond's testicles and penis, and called him a 'stupid little b****,'' the filing says.

Mitchell did not act alone, according to civil court documents at the Albany Supreme Court, which claim he received help from fellow officers.

Mitchell is accused of waterboarding and beating the testicles of Matthew Raymond (R). He was also accused of savagely beating inmate Dino Caroselli (L) in 2002

Raymond also contends that he was waterboarded after returning back from the prison infirmary after a complications from a traumatic brain injury he suffered years prior flared up.

Court papers say that Mitchell then struck Raymond in the face, neck and chest. He later punched his groin and repeatedly struck him in the area with a baton, it is claimed.

Joan Magoolaghan (Pictured), Raymond's lawyer, filed documents with the Albany Supreme Court earlier this week against Mitchell

Raymond said he failed to receive medical attention after the alleged incident despite telling officers he discovered blood in his urine.

'It was not until January 2017, after his ability to urinate ceased and he fainted from toxicity that he was finally taken to the Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse,' the filing says.

Mitchell, 54, was suspended without pay on Aug. 31, 2017 after another inmate leveled similar accusations against him in a separate incident. The DOCCS is currently conducting an investigation into the matter, the department said in a statement.

Raymond's accusations were previously investigated by the inspector general's office for the state Department of Correctional Services.

The probe, however, deemed that that Raymond's accusations were unfounded, The Daily News reported.

But soon after the department concluded its investigation, the other inmate, who has not been named, came forward with nearly identical accusations, forcing the state to reexamine their findings.

Lt. Troy Mitchell is accused of shackling two inmates and pouring pales of water over their mouths at the Auburn Correctional Facility (pictured)

Mitchell has previously cost the state nearly $1 million in legal payouts over past assault and sexual harassment allegations, according to The New York Daily News.

In 2012, former female correctional officer Penny Collins received a $787,837 judgment against DOCCS plus $150,000 in backpay after filing a lawsuit accusing Mitchell and other officers of sexually harassing her.

'This is one of the sickest people I've ever met in my entire life,' Collins, 56, said of Mitchell in a recent interview with the Daily News.

Penny Collins (pictured) received a $787,837 judgment against DOCCS plus $150,000 in backpay after filing a lawsuit accusing Mitchell and other officers of sexually harassing her

Collins said that she was bullied and verbally abused by Mitchell, adding that she was so concerned by his behavior she wrote to a senior investigator at DOCCS' inspector general's office.

'Someone must look into Lt. Mitchell and his actions as an employee,' she wrote.

'With this promotion, he now has a substantial amount of authority and I fear for the people he turns his abuse on.'

Collins said that after speaking with an investigator just one time, she never heard from the department again.

'If they would have taken it seriously 12 years ago, none of this would be an issue now,' she said.

Mitchell has also been accused of savagely beating inmate Dino Caroselli after he accused the 54-year-old correctional officer and other prison guards of breaking both of his hands, ankle, nose and tooth during a 2002 assault.

Caroselli, who is serving a life sentence, received a settlement of $70,000 in 2008.

Another inmate, Richie Thomas, received a $19,800 payout in 2008 after accusing officers of assaulting him during an incident in 2002. Mitchell was named as a defendant in the case but his role in the alleged assault remains unclear, The Daily News reported.

The Department of Correctional Services said in a statement that 'This department has zero tolerance for any behavior that jeopardizes the safety and security of our facilities and the individuals who live and work there.

'All allegations of abuse are thoroughly investigated by our revamped Office of Special Investigations and those found to be at fault face the toughest discipline allowable under the collective bargaining agreement.'US Vice President Mike Pence has stated that even though Washington will continue to pressure North Korea, it is ready to negotiate with Pyongyang, reported RIA Novosti news agency of Russia.

February 12, 2018, 12:46 US ready to negotiate with North Korea

STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 12, ARTSAKHPRESS:So the maximum pressure campaign is going to continue and intensify, Pence told The Washington Post. But if you [North Korea] want to talk, well talk.

The US vice president was asked what exact steps Pyongyang would have to take to get real sanctions relief. I dont know, he responded. Thats why you have to have talks.

According to the official US position, North Korea must give up its nuclear and missile programs, only after which Washington will agree to conduct talks.US Border Patrol agent Rogelio Martinez was found mortally injured beside a West Texas highway in November but an investigation has found no evidence he was attacked

A federal investigation into the death of a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Texas has found no evidence he was attacked, as President Donald Trump suggested at the time, but may have died from a fall, an internal federal agency memo shows.

The message from Kevin McAleenan, acting head of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, to his staff said an exhaustive probe into the death of agent Rogelio Martinez was still under way but had not yet turned up any signs he was the victim of a crime.

'We do not know all the answers at this time. However, according to the FBI, currently none of the completed interviews, locations searched, or collected and analyzed evidence have produced evidence that would support the existence of a scuffle, altercation or attack,' McAleenan wrote in the memo.

Martinez and another agent who survived, Stephen Garland, were in sparsely populated Culberson County, about 130 miles southeast of El Paso, on November 19 when they suffered head injuries and broken bones.

Martinez's partner radioed for help before both agents were airlifted to the hospital, where Martinez died a few hours later.

An autopsy report shed little new light on what caused Martinez's head injuries, describing his manner of death as 'undetermined.' Pictured: Agent Martinez's funeral procession in El Paso

President Trump and others used the suggestion of an attack to promote the building of a wall along the US-Mexico border. The FBI says there's no evidence that Martinez was attacked

Garland's injuries have left him unable to recall the incident.

Last week the FBI's El Paso Field Office said in a statement that after conducting 650 interviews it had found no evidence of an attack.

The statement noted that a dispatcher, who was among the people interviewed by investigators, took the call from the surviving agent.

According to the release, the dispatcher wrote in his log that, '(He) thinks they (both agents) ran into a culvert.'

An autopsy report from the El Paso County medical examiner's office released on Tuesday also shed little light on what caused the serious injuries that Martinez suffered.

Martinez was on found November 18 in a culvert along with his seriously injured partner in a rugged area near Van Horn, Texas. He had a skull fracture, a fractured eye socket, multiple rib fractures and a broken collarbone

President Trump and others used the suggestion of an attack to promote the building of a wall along the US-Mexico border

The report listed 'blunt force trauma' as the cause of death, but said the manner of his death was undetermined.

Dr. Janice Diaz-Cavalliery, assistant medical examiner, found that Martinez had a skull fracture, a fractured eye socket, multiple rib fractures and a broken collarbone, according to the 11-page report.

She found brain hemorrhaging but no other internal injuries.

A barbiturate called Butalbital - often found in drugs combined with aspirin, codeine or caffeine - was in Martinez's system, Diaz-Cavalliery found.

In an interview with the station KTSM on Tuesday, Martinez's fiancee, Angie Ochoa, called into question the autopsy's findings, particularly the part concerning the barbiturate detected in the agent's blood.

'They found Butalbital in his system and when the FBI questioned me about it, I made it very clear to them that Roger would not even take Ibuprofen or Aspirin,' she said.

The FBIs El Paso Field Office said in a statement that after conducting 650 interviews it had found no evidence of an attack (file photo of Border Patrol)

Martinez's fiancee, Angie Ochoa, questioned the autopsy's findings and alleged a cover-up

Ochoa went even farther when addressing the autopsy in a Facebook post early Wednesday morning.

'I'm well aware who I'm going up against after this bulls**t report but I'm not going to sit here with my arms crossed anymore,' the woman wrote.

'[Don't tell me to be careful with my words because it's what I've been doing for the last 2 1/2 months. I'm just stating the obvious! And I'm not going stop after this!'

Responding to a supporter's comment, Ochoa suggested that Martinez and his partner could not call for help because of poor reception and accused government officials of hiding the truth because 'they just want to 'build a wall.''

Ochoa suggested that Martinez and his partner could not call for help because of poor reception. She accused government officials of hiding the truth because 'they just want to 'build a wall''

Shortly after Martinez's death, Trump tweeted: 'Border Patrol Officer killed at Southern Border, another badly hurt. We will seek out and bring to justice those responsible. We will, and must, build the Wall!'

According to McAleenan's memo, both agents appeared to have fallen into a nine-foot-deep culvert near Interstate 10 at about 11:30 p.m. local time on a moonless night.

In late November, the U.S. Department of Justice offered a $25,000 reward for information related to a 'potential assault on a federal officer' in the case.

A Border Patrol union, the National Border Patrol Council, has previously said the pair was attacked and struck with a rock or rocks.

Trump, Sen. Ted Cruz and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott also have said the two were attacked, with Trump using the incident to renew his call for a border wall between the US and Mexico.

Trump has repeatedly linked immigration to criminality in making his case for tighter border security.

Some 33 border agents have died on duty since the CBP was created in 2003, the libertarian think tank Cato Institute said in a report after Martinez' death.

Of those, about half were from auto accidents and four were murdered, the institute said.Aetna's former Southern California medical director Dr. Jay Ken Iinuma is being investigated after he admitted he never checked patient records when making the decision to approve or decline services

An investigation has been launched into Aetna's former Southern California medical director Dr. Jay Ken Iinuma.

The probe comes after Iinuma revealed under oath he never once checked patient medical records while making the decision to approve or decline services, CNN reports.

In a statement to CNN, California's Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones discussed further details about the investigation into Iinuma's practices, calling the case 'troubling'.

Jones said: 'If the health insurer is making decisions to deny coverage without a physician actually ever reviewing medical records, that's of significant concern to me as insurance commissioner in California.'

Jones said Iinuma's careless practices could be 'potentially a violation of law.'

Iinuma held the medical director position from March 2012 to February 2015, and currently owns his own family practice physician in Arcadia, according to his website.

The primary care physician said during his time with Aetna, he relied on nurse recommendations for patients rather than conducting his own review work.

Iinuma worked with the insurance company from March 2012 to February 2015. He now owns his own family practice physician in Arcadia

California's Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones (pictured right) said the case against Iinuma (left) is 'troubling'

He also said the form of practice was simply something he learned during the insurance company's training process.

'Aetna medical directors are trained to review all available medical information  including medical records  to make an informed decision,' Aetna said in a statement.

Jones told CNN: 'It's hard to imagine that in that entire course in time, there weren't any cases in which a decision about the denial of coverage ought to have been made by someone trained as a physician, as opposed to some other licensed professional.

'That's why we've contacted Aetna and asked that they provide us information about how they are making these claims and decisions and why we've opened this investigation.'

Jones urges any former patients who believe to have been 'adversely affected' by Iinuma's practices to contact the California Department of Insurance.A 17-year-old boy has been charged over the murder of 43-year-old mother-of-two Antonia Tatchell, who was found dead in her Melbourne home last month.

The teenager was charged with one count of murder and is due to appear at a children's court at a later date.

Ms Tatchell's 17-year-old son was believed to have found his mother's body in the bathtub inside her Brunswick home, in the city's inner-north, about 7am January 11.

Melbourne mother Antonia Tatchell (pictured), 43, was found dead in the bathtub of her Brunswick home by a relative, believed to be her 17-year-old son about 7am January 11

Detectives launched and investigation into the award winning artist's death, and were initially treating it as suspicious.

Ms Tatchell was a talented painter and photographer who attended Preshil - Melbourne's Independent Alternative School.

She also studied at the Victorian College of the Arts and won the Clayton Utz Award in 2011.

Ms Tatchell's neighbour Maree said she spoke to the distraught teenager just moments after he learnt of his mother's sudden death.

Detectives launched and investigation into the award winning artist's death, and had initially treated it as suspicious

'He told me: 'I found mum dead in the bath',' she told the Herald Sun at the time.

'He was in shock. It's awful. I hope it was an accident.'

Fellow neighbour Durgesh Bhattarai said he would often see Ms Tatchell come and go from her house, but she would always keep to herself.

'Sometimes I would hear loud music coming from the house late at night but nothing that would indicate anything was wrong,' he told The Age .

Another resident said the home was 'hostile' and they often heard 'yelling and screaming'

'It's left us feeling really concerned and worried just to think that something like this can happen right next door to you.'

A former friend of Ms Tatchell described her as a 'source of interesting, joyful stuff'.

'She was a very funny, well-liked person, with lots of friends. In different communities too, not just the art community,' Nick Meeny said.Jacob Zuma has vowed to stay as South African President for up to six months after being given 48 hours to resign by the country's ruling ANC party over corruption.

The veteran leader had been given a two-day ultimatum by the African National Congress but immediately made it clear he was going nowhere, a source revealed.

ANC officials have now revealed that Zuma has proposed to resign with a notice period of three to six months - a condition the party committee rejected.

Secretary-general Ace Magashule admitted in a press conference today that no firm deadline had been set for a resignation. He said the decision to recall Zuma - party-speak for 'remove from office' - was taken after 'exhaustive discussions'.

If Zuma refuses his party's instruction, the matter could go to parliament for a vote on a motion of no confidence. Magashule said 'it's obvious' that the party wants Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa to succeed Zuma.

Zuma has faced increasing calls to end his scandal-plagued second term - due to run out in mid-2019 - ever since Ramaphosa was elected party leader in December.

But there has been increasing speculation that the man dubbed the 'Teflon President' might yet refuse to step aside and may hold out for concessions in exchange for his resignation.

Jacob Zuma has vowed to stay as South African President for up to six months after being given 48 hours to resign by the country's ruling ANC party over corruption

ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule (pictured) admitted in a press conference today that no firm deadline had been set for Zuma's resignation. He said the decision to recall Zuma - party-speak for 'remove from office' - was taken after 'exhaustive discussions'

The decision by the ANC national executive followed 13 hours of tense deliberations and one, short face-to-face exchange between Zuma and his presumed successor, deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa.

Zuma, a polygamous Zulu traditionalist with no formal education, has been living on borrowed time since Ramaphosa, a union leader and lawyer once tipped as Mandela's pick to take over the reins, was elected as head of the 106-year-old ANC in December.

Ramaphosa narrowly defeated Zuma's ex-wife and preferred successor, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, in the leadership vote, forcing him to tread carefully in handling Zuma for fear of deepening rifts in the party a year ahead of an election.

Despite the damning decision to order Zuma's 'recall' - ANC-speak for 'remove from office' - domestic media say the 75-year-old might yet defy the party's wishes, forcing it into the indignity of having to unseat him in parliament.

Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, Zuma's expected successor, is reportedly negotiating a deal with the president in exchange for his resignation

Who is Cyril Ramaphosa? The South African tycoon who has replaced Jacob Zuma as president He is one of South Africa's richest businessmen and has faced claims of being a 'silent deputy' during Jacob Zuma's scandal-hit administration. Cyril Ramaphosa has now replaced the veteran president after the 75-year-old finally resigned. A veteran of the struggle to end apartheid, the 65-year-old has promoted himself as a reformer - but is not free from controversy himself. Many South Africans remember that Mr Ramaphosa was a board member of the Lonmin mining group at the time of the Marikana killings in 2012, when police shot dead 34 striking mine workers. In 2017, he was accused of having affairs with several young women, which he denied. Cyril Ramaphosa (pictured) is the man lined up to replace the veteran president when the 75-year-old finally leaves office Nelson Mandela (left) once described Ramaphosa (right) as one of the most gifted leaders of the 'new generation' Elected to lead the ruling African National Congress (ANC) in December, Ramaphosa was also the party's candidate for president in the 2019 run off. He held off competition from Zuma's ex wife and former cabinet minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma in a bitter political campaign which threatened to tear the party apart. Ramaphosa's long and eventful career has taken him from trade union activist to multi-millionaire and now to within touching distance of the South African presidency. After South Africa dismantled apartheid, Ramaphosa saw his hopes for the country's top job dashed. True to his pragmatic character, he opted instead for life in business - a move that brought him spectacular wealth. But his election last year as head of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) brings him to the brink of realising his dream. A veteran of the struggle to end apartheid, the 65-year-old has promoted himself as a reformer - but has not been free from controversy himself. Ramaphosa is pictured, left, with Jacob Zuma It was after Ramaphosa failed to clinch the ANC nomination to succeed president Nelson Mandela in 1999 that he swapped politics for a foray into business that made him one of the wealthiest people in Africa. Mandela once described Ramaphosa as one of the most gifted leaders of the 'new generation' - the young campaigners who rose in the 1970s, filling the void left by their jailed elders. During his business career, Ramaphosa held stakes in McDonald's and Coca-Cola and made millions in deals that required investors to partner with non-white shareholders. He became one of the richest men on the continent - reaching number 42 on Forbes list of Africa's wealthiest people in 2015 with a net worth of $450 million (383 million euros). Ramaphosa became one of the richest men on the continent during his business career Out of politics for a decade, Ramaphosa returned to frontline politics in 2012 when he was elected to the ANC's number-two post. He became deputy president of the nation in 2014, but had to tread a careful line. He had to both serve Zuma - tarred by accusations of corruption and incompetence - and also deliver occasional, cautious criticism of his political master. His ambivalence has led to criticism. Mmusi Maimane, leader of the main opposition Democratic Alliance party, accused Ramaphosa of being 'at best a silent deputy president, and at worst a complicit one'. Born on November 17, 1952 in Soweto township west of Johannesburg - a centre of the anti-apartheid struggle - Ramaphosa became involved with student activism while studying law in the 1970s. He was arrested in 1974 and spent 11 months in solitary confinement. After studying, he turned to trade unionism - one of the few legal ways of protesting the white-minority regime. He founded the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in 1982 which grew to 300,000 members and led massive mine strikes in 1987 that shook the foundations of white rule. When Mandela was released in 1990 after 27 years in prison for opposing apartheid, Ramaphosa was a key part of the taskforce that led the transition to democracy. Ramaphosa (pictured with Zuma) has promoted himself as a reformer, despite being a key part of Zuma's administration, and has promised to steer South Africa away from corruption scandals which have blighted it in the past His popularity was badly shaken in 2012 when 34 striking mine workers were killed by police at the Marikana platinum mine (pictured), operated by London-listed Lonmin, where he was then a non-executive director. Ramaphosa won global prominence as the ANC's lead negotiator, with his contribution seen as one factor in the success of the talks and the resulting peaceful democratic handover. He then led the group that drew up the country's world-renowned new constitution. Ramaphosa - who is relaxed and low-key at public appearances - has managed to steer clear of major corruption scandals but his return to politics has not been free from controversy. His popularity was badly shaken in 2012 when 34 striking mine workers were killed by police at the Marikana platinum mine, operated by London-listed Lonmin, where he was then a non-executive director. Shortly before the massacre - the worst police killing since the end of apartheid - Ramaphosa had called for a crackdown on the strikers, whom he accused of 'dastardly criminal' behaviour. Ramaphosa has four children with his second wife Tshepo Motsepe, a doctor. In 2017, he was accused of having affairs with several young women, which he denied. Ramaphosa did admit to an extramarital affair but told local media that he had since disclosed the relationship to his wife. Some saw the sudden revelations as a smear campaign by associates of President Zuma determined to ensure that Dlamini-Zuma takes the ANC top job. The impact of the scandal was short-lived, and Ramaphosa based his campaign on his pledge to rebuild the country's economy, boost growth and create much-needed jobs. 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Shortly before midnight, the SABC state broadcaster said Zuma had been told in person by Ramaphosa that he had 48 hours to resign. A senior party source later told Reuters Zuma had made clear he was going nowhere.

'Cyril went to speak with him,' the source said, adding that the discussions were 'tense and difficult' when Ramaphosa returned to the ANC meeting in a hotel near Pretoria.

'We decided to recall Zuma,' the source said. Another party source said ANC Secretary-General and Zuma loyalist Ace Magashule had gone to see Zuma on Tuesday morning to tell him formally of the party's decision.

The ANC is due to hold a media briefing in the afternoon to reveal its version of events.

One domestic report said Zuma had asked for three months to resign, a request that was denied. Another report said Zuma simply told Ramaphosa: 'Do what you want to do'.

Zuma's spokesman did not answer his mobile phone. His son, Edward, said he would not comment until after the ANC had made its formal pronouncement.

On Friday, one of his wives, Tobeka Madiba-Zuma, posted comments on Instagram suggesting Zuma, who has challenged and defied multiple attempts by the ANC and courts to rein him in, was prepared to go down fighting.

Zuma is accused of violating the constitution by using state money to pay for multi-million-dollar upgrades to his private home. Pictured: Supporters of President Cyril Ramaphosa hold up t shirts with his face emblazoned on them

The post even suggested Zuma believed he was the victim of a Western conspiracy.

'He will finish what he started because he does not take orders beyond the Atlantic Ocean,' she said.

South Africa's economy, the most sophisticated on the continent, has stagnated during Zuma's nine-year tenure, with banks and mining companies reluctant to invest because of policy uncertainty and rampant corruption.

However, since mid-November when Ramaphosa emerged as a real ANC leadership prospect, economic confidence has started to pick up, while the rand - a telling barometer of Zuma's fortunes - has gained more than 15 percent against the dollar.

The ANC's decisive overnight move against Zuma after nearly two weeks of deliberations mirrors the fate that he himself meted out to then-President Thabo Mbeki in 2008 after being elected to the helm of the party.

The removal of Zuma, an anti-apartheid activist who spent 10 years alongside Mandela in the notorious Robben Island prison camp, also echoes generational changes in the anti-colonial liberation movements in charge of southern Africa.

How South Africa's Zuma might leave office Pressure is mounting on South Africa's scandal-tarred president, Jacob Zuma, to leave office ahead of elections next year. Here are the ways by which he could leave office early: Vote of no confidence: Zuma's enemies have previously sought to topple him with parliamentary votes of no confidence. Several such motions have been tabled in parliament but failed. For such a motion to succeed, a simple majority of parliamentarians would be needed, 201 in total. Pressure is mounting on South Africa's scandal-tarred president, Jacob Zuma, to leave office ahead of elections next year Impeachment: The impeachment process provides three grounds by which lawmakers can strip the president of office: a serious breach of the constitution; serious misconduct; or incapacity to carry out his or her duties Two-thirds, 267, of the members of the National Assembly would have to vote for the president's removal for this pathway to succeed. Resignation and recall: There are two main scenarios under which Zuma could resign. He could decide to relinquish power, likely the most dignified option. This route would 'not embarrass the president', Collette Schulz-Herzenberg, a political science lecturer at Stellenbosch University, said. Under the other scenario, Zuma could be 'recalled' by his party when its National Executive Committee meets on Monday and effectively forced to step down. Advertisement

In August, Jose Eduardo dos Santos stepped down after 38 years as president of oil-rich Angola and three months later Zimbabwe's military unseated 93-year-old Robert Mugabe, the only leader the country had known since independence in 1980.

Although Zuma retains a core of faithful inside the ANC and in the rural heartlands of his native KwaZulu-Natal province, there will be few tears shed in South Africa's urban centres, where many regard him with contempt.

'He's a goner,' the Sowetan, a tabloid popular with urban black South Africans, said in a front-page headline above a picture of Zuma sitting with his head held in his hand.

Central to the public anger have been the persistent allegations - now the focus of a judicial commission - that Zuma let his friends the Guptas use their relationship with him to win state contracts and even influence cabinet appointments.

Zuma and the three Gupta brothers, who were born in India but moved to South Africa in the early 1990s, have denied any wrongdoing.

The Guptas' whereabouts is unknown, although plane-tracking websites showed their private jet flying last week from India to Dubai to Russia.

In addition to the massive Gupta-related 'state capture' scandal, many South Africans were outraged by a state-funded $16 million security upgrade to Zuma's rural Nkandla home that included a cattle kraal and swimming pool.

At the time, Zuma's police minister justified the pool as a 'fire-fighting resource'.

If Zuma refuses to quit, the matter could go to parliament for a possible motion of no confidence or even impeachment proceedings that would likely highlight disarray in the ruling African National Congress party, which has led South Africa since the end of apartheid in 1994.

An opposition-sponsored motion of no confidence has been scheduled for February 22.

Ramaphosa would become acting president if Zuma leaves office, and likely would be elected president in a parliamentary vote that must happen no more than 30 days after Zuma's exit.

Zuma's five biggest career scandals Jacob Zuma (pictured) has a long history of career controversies South African PresidentJacob Zuma's battle to stay in office despite the ruling ANC party reportedly asking him to step down is the latest in a long history of career controversies. Here are five of his biggest scandals: Rape charges and HIV Before taking office, Zuma was put on trial in 2006 for rape, in a case that dismayed many South Africans. Zuma said the sex with the 31-year-old family friend was consensual and he was acquitted. But he told the court he had showered to avoid contracting HIV after having unprotected sex with his HIV-positive accuser - a common but dangerous myth. Zuma was head of the South African National AIDS Council at the time, and was pilloried for his ignorance. He is still mocked in newspaper cartoons, which often depict him with a shower nozzle sprouting from his bald head. Nearly a fifth of South Africans aged between 15 and 49 are HIV-positive. Nkandla costs Zuma was found by the country's graft watchdog in 2014 to have "benefited unduly" from so-called security upgrades to his rural Nkandla residence in KwaZulu-Natal province. It said he should refund some of the money. The work, paid for with taxpayers' money, cost $24 million (22 million euros) and included a swimming pool, which was described as a fire-fighting facility, a chicken run, a cattle enclosure, an amphitheatre and a visitors' centre. For two years, Zuma fought the order to repay part of the money. The scandal came to dominate his presidency - with opposition lawmakers chanting "Pay back the money!" every time he appeared in parliament. In March 2016 he was ordered by the Constitutional Court to pay back the cash and suffered a stinging rebuke from the justices who accused him of failing to respect and uphold the constitution. Before taking office, Zuma (picxtured) was put on trial in 2006 for rape, in a case that dismayed many South Africans Guptagate As the Nkandla debacle built to a climax, its place in the headlines was overtaken by a new scandal, known as Guptagate. It involved the president's allegedly corrupt relationship with a wealthy family of Indian immigrants headed by three brothers - Ajay, Atul and Rajesh Gupta - who built a business empire in mining, media, technology and engineering. Smouldering rumours of the family's undue influence on the president burst into flames in 2016 when evidence emerged they allegedly offered key government jobs to those who might help their business interests. Ousted deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas revealed that the Guptas had offered him a promotion shortly before Zuma sacked respected finance minister Nhlanhla Nene in December 2015. The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) laid corruption charges against the Guptas and Zuma's son Duduzane. Arms deal In October 2017, after a marathon legal campaign by the DA party, the Supreme Court of Appeal ruled that Zuma was liable for prosecution over almost 800 counts of corruption relating to a 1990s arms deal. The accusations relate to a multi-billion-dollar arms deal signed in 1999, when Zuma was deputy president. He allegedly accepted bribes from international arms manufacturers to influence the choice of weaponry. Zuma's advisor, Schabir Shaik, was jailed for 15 years in 2005. He was released on medical parole in 2009, the year Zuma became president. After he leaves office, Zuma faces the risk of jail over 18 criminal charges over the 783 payments he received. Omar al-Bashir In March 2016 the South African Supreme Court of Appeal upheld a judgement that the failure by Zuma's government to arrest Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir was illegal. Despite an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court on charges of war crimes in the conflict in Darfur, Bashir was allowed to attend a meeting of the African Union in Johannesburg in 2015. The government said the fact that he was attending the summit as a head of state meant he had immunity, but the court disagreed. Zuma escaped an impeachment attempt over the issue in parliament in September 2016, when ANC lawmakers voted overwhelmingly against it. Advertisement

The period from then until national elections in 2019 would not count as a term; South African presidents can hold office for a maximum of two terms.

The impasse highlighted the disarray within the party that was previously the main movement against white minority rule and has led South Africa since the end of apartheid in 1994.

The ANC once commanded moral stature as the party of Nelson Mandela, but corruption scandals linked to Mr Zuma have cut into its popularity ahead of national elections in 2019.

The ANC on Tuesday planned to announce the results of the 13-hour meeting of its national executive committee, which has about 100 members.

Mr Zuma has survived similar motions against him in the past, but many ruling party members now see him as a political liability and would likely vote against him.

Mr Zuma, who took office in 2009 and is in his second five-year term, has asked for state security for his family, payment of legal fees and a few more months in office in exchange for quitting, said South African media, citing unidentified ANC sources.

Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, Mr Zuma's expected successor, has held private talks with the president on a power transition, angering opposition parties who described the process as an affront to South African democracy.

Last week, Mr Ramaphosa promised a 'speedy resolution' to the discussions, but the protracted stand-off has raised questions about the political clout of the man poised to lead the country.The distraught family of a Scottish man who went missing in Hamburg during a stag do have made an impassioned plea for information on his whereabouts.

Liam Colgan was last seen in the early hours of Saturday morning in the German city.

He had organised the trip for around 18 people ahead of his brother's wedding in March.

The 29-year-old has not been seen since 1.30am on Saturday in the Hamborger Veermaster bar in the Reeperbahn area.

Liam Colgan (pictured) was last seen in the early hours of Saturday morning in the German city

Police became involved in the search when he failed to show up for activities on the Saturday afternoon.

Alan Pearson, who was on the trip, told BBC Radio Scotland: 'It was towards the end of the night that Liam became separated from the group, but nobody realised at the time, given the nature of the event. It was hard to keep tabs on everyone.

'Having retraced our steps and spoken to bar staff in the last bar he was seen in, we understand that he left a few minutes before the rest of the group.'

He added: 'He's not done anything like this before. You might often hear in appeals like this that the behaviour is completely out of character and that is absolutely the truth in this case.

'When he didn't turn up for activities he had planned in the afternoon we knew something was amiss there so we pressed the police to assist and were eventually able to get an investigation started on Sunday morning.'

Police became involved in the search when Mr Colgan (shown right, with his friend Paige on holiday in Budapest last year) failed to show up for activities on the Saturday afternoon

Mr Colgan's brother and father have remained in Hamburg along with a few others to continue the search, while friends at home have been helping by contacting hospitals in the city. The Foreign Office is also in contact with German police.

A Facebook page titled 'Help find Liam Colgan' has been created with appeals in English and German.

It said: 'Liam, is the best man for his brother Eamonn Colgan and is responsible for organising the Stag Do to Hamburg, Germany.

'Eamonn is due to marry his fiance Susan in three weeks time back in Scotland so we are launching an urgent appeal to find Liam.'

Mr Colgan is around 6ft with a slim build and ginger hair. When last seen, he was wearing a brown leather jacket and a grey hoodie.

A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: 'We are in contact with the German police after a British man was reported missing in Hamburg, Germany.

'We are providing advice and assistance to his family.'Four of the five Britons arrested on pornography charges following a raucous pool party in a notorious Cambodian tourist hot spot have been deported, a court official has said.

Of the ten foreigners held seven have now left the country and only the event organiser remains in prison.

The group - five Britons, two Canadians, a Norwegian, a New Zealander and a Dutch national - was arrested two weeks ago by police who raided their pool bash at a private villa in the city, which flanks Cambodia's famed Angkor Wat temple ruins.

Court spokesman Yin Srang said the court 'deported them from the country' as part of the bail decision, although the charges against them have not been formally dropped.

Four of the five Britons arrested on pornography charges following a raucous pool party in a notorious Cambodian tourist hot spot have been deported

'They have left Cambodia. We gave them back their passports,' he said.

Their lawyer Ouch Sopheaktra confirmed that the seven had left the country and said he had no plan to ask for bail for the remaining three, a British, Dutch and Norwegian national.

All 10 defendants denied the allegations, saying only that they were wearing 'sexy' clothing but were not nude and had not produced pornography.

Authorities have yet to announce a date for the trial.

The only women among the 10, Canadians Eden Kazoleas and Jessica Drolet, arrived by plane in Toronto on Friday night.

'I'm very happy to be home, I'm grateful to be in Canada,' said Kazoleas, a 19-year-old from Alberta. 'I look forward to seeing my family and my parents, who have done absolutely everything they could to bring me home.'

Kazoleas thanked Cambodian authorities for their 'understanding' during the incident.

'I did not know, nor did I think attending a pool party would be offensive in Cambodian culture,' Kazoleas said.

'I apologize to anyone who thinks it was, but when I attended the party I was not taking part in any pornographic dancing or anything the media suggests I was doing and I am very disappointed in the way I was represented.'

Drolet, a 26-year-old from Ontario, expressed similar sentiments.

The two women said they were happy to have each other's company during the ordeal.

'I was lucky to have Jessica in there with me,' Kazoleas said. 'As much as I wish she didn't have to go through it, I couldn't have done it without her.'

Police accused the foreigners of 'singing and dancing pornographically' and detained 10 out of the 77 party-goers initially rounded up in the crackdown.

The defendants, aged from 19 to 31, faced up to one year in prison after a Siem Reap court charged them with producing pornographic pictures and materials.

A prosecutor accused the party organisers of circulating obscene images online to promote the event.

Dan Jones (with his hands together), one of the British men jailed over 'pornographic pictures' in Cambodia, made a groveling apology as others locked up said they were desperate to return to the UK

The five British men were filmed as part of a larger group who all nodded vigorously when asked if they wanted to leave Cambodia and return to the UK

Defence attorney Ouch Sopheaktra said lawyers requested bail for the seven because 'they were not the organisers of the party' and were therefore more likely to be released.

Lawyers did not seek bail for the other three - including the one Briton.

Earlier this week, video released from the prison where the group are being held showed one of the men making a grovelling apology.

The five men were filmed nodding vigorously when asked if they wanted to leave Cambodia and return to the UK.

They have chose to remain behind bars rather than apply for bail in the hope their case would be fast tracked through the courts.

In the video posted to YouTube and on the Cambodian Expats Online site, Dan Jones is heard saying he respects the country's culture and has helped teach children in the country.

'I have no problem with Cambodia,' he says before adding he made 'one mistake' and apologises profusely while bowing his head.

Dressed in a white t-shirt and black shorts, with his head freshly shaved, he can be heard saying the words 'I am sorry'. It is not clear what mistake he is referring to.

All five Britons - Jones, 30, Paul Harris, 32, Vince Hook, 35, Thomas Jeffries, 22, and Billy Stevens, 21  denied the charge of making pornographic pictures at the pool party held in a private home last week (above)

Jones and others are believed to have organized pub-crawls that attracted the attention of the Cambodian police for their alleged lewd behaviour with twister style 'sex position' games.

Another of the Brits arrested, Paul Harris, identifies himself at the manager of the Angkor Wat pub where many of the pub-crawls began.

All five Britons - Jones, 30, Harris, 32, Vince Hook, 35, Thomas Jeffries, 22, and Billy Stevens, 21  deny the charge of making pornographic pictures at the pool party held in a private home last week.

All five British men have chosen to remain behind bars rather than apply for bail in the hope their case will be fast tracked through the courts

Jones had put out a flier with a 'Let's Get Wet' invitation on the internet to attract almost 100 people paying 5 a head to his home.

At his bar staff told MailOnline the three times a week pub-crawls had been permanently cancelled.

Lawyers representing them were told not to ask for their release while police carry out their investigation.

In the video posted to You Tube and on the Cambodian Expats Online site, Dan Jones (centre left with hands on his hips) is heard saying he respects the Cambodia culture and has helped teach children in the country

Jones (left) is among those who have organised pub-crawls that have attracted the attention of the Cambodian police for their alleged lewd behaviour with twister style 'sex position' games

Some have reasoned by staying locked up the Cambodian authorities will speed up their investigation.

Police raided the home rented by Jones after earlier witnessing an alleged Twister style sex position game on a pub-crawl he and others are believed to have organised.

Authorities in the resort of Siem Reap have launched a crackdown on what they see as lewd behaviour by backpackers who flock to the resort saying the antics are an insult to the country.

The filmed apology was shot after the eight men arrested had their heads shaved to prevent an outbreak of lice while being held in Siam Reap prison (above)

Duong Thavry, head of the anti-human-trafficking and juvenile protection department in Siem Reap said the 10 had been arrested because they had put 'pornographic' pictures from previous parties on Facebook to advertise the event.

'These photos and videos are against our culture. They were publicly putting them up on the internet, and making it look like Cambodia has these kinds of parties here. It is very disrespectful and gives the wrong idea of our country,' she said.

Thavry said the five British men had been specifically targeted and stormed the party villa with arrest warrants.

The five British men and other nationals from Canada, New Zealand, Norway and Holland, have been held at the Siam Reap prison since their arrest

The men had their head shaved to prevent lice and were issued with orange style Guantanamo Bay terrorist suspect jump suits.

An undercover police officer joined one of the pub-crawls two weeks ago and was said to have witnessed the Twister games.

Their case was substantially boosted when the Governor of Siam Reap told local media no porn pictures had been found during the raid.

He did add that those arrested had been previously warned about some of the events they were staging and to call a halt to them.

After the raid police in Siam Reap had issued photos showing men and women entwined in compromising positions but these were taken at another event.

Their case was substantially boosted when the Governor of Siam Reap told local media no porn pictures had been found during the raid on the house (above). After the raid police issued photos showing men and women entwined but these were taken at another event

It is thought when police raided the rented home of Jones they expected to see similar antics but the almost 100 revellers who were at the party were standing round drinking and chatting.

Bar owners told MailOnline there had been an increased police presence on the street and several uniformed officers could be seen patrolling up and down the narrow roads packed with neon lit bars.

Restaurant owners welcomed the police presence if it meant the drunken behaviour of a small minority was kept in check.

'Everyone would see the pub crawl people and found it disrespectful,' said one restaurant manager.

'We want people to enjoy themselves and to come to Pub Street, but we do not need people getting drunk and causing problems. That is not the Cambodian culture and if they are in our country then our traditions and ways should be respected.'

Police took 77 people from the party to their main HQ where they were forced to watch a video which showed what the authorities consider indecent behaviour.

Only ten of those held were locked up as they were considered the ringleaders of the party and previous pub-crawls where sex position games are held.

Lawyer Mr Sophea denied reports that the men were only arrested because they failed to pay a $140 bribe to local police.

He said:' That is not true and not correct.'A gluten-free organic porridge has been recalled because of contamination by moths and moth larvae.

The company, Gluten Free Foods Ltd, based in Elstree, Hertfordshire, issued the recall of their Barkat Organic Gluten Free Porridge through the Food Standards Agency.

The alert involves 500g boxes of the flakes, with a best before date on them of October 6 2018, which sell for about 12 at various outlets.

The company, Gluten Free Foods Ltd, based in Elstree, Hertfordshire, issued the recall of their Barkat Organic Gluten Free Porridge through the Food Standards Agency

'If you have bought any of the above product do not eat it. Instead, return it to where it was bought for a full refund,' the company said.

No other Barkat products are thought to be affected.

The FSA said: 'Gluten Free Foods Ltd is recalling the product and have written to their affected customers providing a Product Recall Notice to advise of this issue, as well as publishing the details of the recall on their website.

'These notices explain to customers why the products are being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product.'

The gluten-free organic porridge has been recalled because of contamination by moths

Gluten Free Foods Ltd was established in 1994 by father and son team Richard and Ellis Ward.

Richard's background in the gluten free industry started in 1969 after his daughter was diagnosed with a rare condition, Coeliac Disease.

Four years later, Ellis was also diagnosed with it.

The firm's website says 'This time at least, Richard together with his wife Simone knew what to expect and more importantly what food their two children could eat.

'After years of research and running a small mail order business of supplying gluten free food from their home, they set up a dedicated gluten free bakery manufacturing bread, rolls, cakes and cookies; supplying the majority of Europe and closer to home all the pharmacies and hospitals nationwide.

'In 1994, Richard together with his son Ellis set up Gluten Free Foods, a modern day version of the original business.

'Introducing the Barkat brand of dedicated gluten and wheat free foods to the retail market, Gluten Free Foods was the first company to present a range of free from foods to the UK grocery trade in 1999, thus launching what we know today as the Free From sector.'Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamud had access to Heathrow's runway

A former terror suspect and sex offender boasted about how he got 'close to planes and luggage' after he was given a job at Britain's busiest airport.

In an alarming security breach, career criminal Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamud who is said to be on an official terror watchlist, reportedly had access to Heathrow's runway.

The 31-year-old has a criminal record stretching back 11 years including robbery, assault, money laundering and threats to kill.

He took photos of himself beside the runway to 'expose' lax security at Heathrow, which he said was a 'disgrace'.

Mohamud is said to be known to the security services and has been interviewed five times in the past two years by anti-terror officers, it is claimed.

He reportedly had two terror charges - relating to alleged hoaxes involving a harmful substance and a bomb - dropped due to insufficient evidence.

He was convicted of sexual assault in 2015 and ordered to sign the sex offenders register for 10 years and in total has served five years in prison.

Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamud, a terror suspect and sex offender with 17 aliases, has reportedly been working at Britain's busiest airport in an alarming security breach (file photo)

But airport bosses allegedly failed to carry out a full background check and he was handed a security pass and started work as a kitchen porter in a first-class lounge, according to the Sunday People.

A security source told the paper: 'How can somebody with a criminal past like this slip through the net?

'Even if he hadn't been a terror suspect his convictions should have meant he wasn't allowed anywhere near a plane  let alone our busiest airport.'

He told The Sun: 'These security procedures are a disgrace and need to be exposed. I'm not an extremist or terrorist, I love Britain and want to protect it.

'I can't believe how close I can get to the planes and luggage. I can't believe staff at Heathrow don't get checked. It's crazy.'

Mohamud, 31, has a criminal record stretching back 11 years including robbery, assault, money laundering and threats to kill (file photo of Heathrow airport)

Mohamud has been interviewed by Prevent, the Government's anti-radicalisation programme, but he contacted a newspaper this week telling them he had been offered a job at an airport.

He boasted no background checks were made and claimed he wanted to expose a security loophole.

The sex offender even took a picture of a plane from the runway to prove how close he got to the aircraft.

It emerged he had lied about his lengthy criminal record to recruiters and took up the job through the SM Global Consultancy Ltd agency on Monday.

On Tuesday he arrived at Heathrow and began work at the business and first-class lounge.

Frighteningly, he spent five days at the airport and had airside access in Terminal 3.

Around 17.7 million passengers pass through the terminal on 89,000 flights each year.

No full background check was carried out before he arrived at the airport and he could have gone undetected for up to a month because a full criminal record check through the Disclosure and Barring Service search could have taken four weeks.

Airport bosses allegedly failed to carry out a full background check and he was handed a security pass and started work as a kitchen porter in a first-class lounge (file photo)

His security pass was revoked when airport bosses were alerted to the breach and Mohamed was sacked.

A spokesman for SM Global Consultancy told the People all security procedures set by Heathrow Airport and the Civil Aviation Agency had been followed.

A Heathrow spokesman said: 'We would like to reassure those who may be worried about this story that no security breaches have been made and Heathrow airport remains safe.

'The conditions of this temporary pass required the individual to be constantly escorted by a permanent member of staff. He was also subjected to robust and thorough airport security search, each time he gained access to certain areas.

'The UK has some of the most robust aviation security measures in the world and Heathrow follows and is compliant with Government regulations, which ensured checks were in place to limit airport access to this individual.'The bizarre moment an alleged thief attempts to kick a microphone out of a reporter's hand as he leaves court has been caught on camera.

Hamzigo Nuhic, 78, is accused of breaking into a home in Sydney's Bexley North in July last year.

He tried to have his charges dealt with under the mental health act but the magistrate dismissed the application, 7 News reported.

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Video footage taken of the incident shows the elderly man being escorted out by three uniformed police officers

Hamzigo Nuhic, 78, is accused of breaking into a home in Sydney's Bexley North in July last year

Nuhic was removed from court on Monday by officers after facing burglary charges.

Video footage taken of the incident shows the elderly man being escorted out by three uniformed police officers.

He then attempts to kick a reporter's microphone, only missing by centimetres.

'You can't go back inside,' one of the officers tells Nuhic before trying to hand him his walking cane.

The accused burglar then bizarrely plants his head in a nearby bush until cameras stop rolling.

It is alleged the pensioner is behind a string of burglaries in Sydney's south, including one in May where he is accused of stealing $1,500 cash, several watches, gold rings and chains.

Nuhic is due back in court next month.A female-only retreat in Costa Rica is offering women of color the chance of a break from white people.

Andrea X, who created Women of Color Healing Retreat in Puerto Viejo, said she has 'completely cut out white people' from her life, saying 'they have caused enough damage'.

Guests enjoy yoga, meditation and vegan food in an environment free from what the founder calls micro-aggressions and passive-aggressiveness that exists in the US.

The getaway location in Puerto Viejo has banned white people, meaning those who attend spend their time exclusively with women of color

Guests enjoy yoga, meditation and vegan food in an environment free from what the founder calls micro-agressions and passive-aggressiveness that exists in the US

Andrea X (pictured), who created Women of Color Healing Retreat, said she has 'completely cut out white people' from her life, saying 'they have caused enough damage'

Vice News traveled to the retreat to get a first-hand look at how it operates, and discovered hundreds of thousands of dollars were being spent on locations to facilitate completely white-free communities.

Andrea X said she decided one day to completely 'eliminate' white people from her personal life.

She said her life became 'much more breezy', and even said white people shouldn't be given passports due to how destructive they are.

'They are here,' she said, 'They are everywhere. I feel white people shouldn't even have passports.

'I have no tips for white people. Let us have our space.

'Let us have our room and hang out with other white people - you've done enough damage.'

Andrea X's retreat allows women to spend 10 days in her company, discussing the frustrations of life in the US

Andrea X's retreat allows women to spend 10 days in her company, discussing the frustrations of life in the US.

Many, including Alexis Bromley from Omaha, Nebraska, used the trip to detox from what was described as constant racism in the US.

She said everyday judgement means she feels more at home in foreign countries than in her home state.

And with Donald Trump as President, the women said the issue is getting worse rather than better.

'It's hard in Nebraska, because it's a red state,' Ms Bromley told Vice.

The Republican has divided the country, in the opinion of those who stayed at the retreat, saying

The idea in Costa Rica is to effectively create a black nation, according to Andrea X, which would cater exclusively to people of color.

She said: 'It will be a community of just black people living here.'The statement of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs made on the results of the regional visit contains concrete and key points, but it would be preferable if the statement didnt contain an equality sign and was more addressed, Vice Speaker of the Armenian Parliament Eduard Sharmazanov said.

February 12, 2018, 14:18 OSCE MG Co-Chairs statement directed against Azerbaijans unconstructive policy  Vice Speaker Sharmazanov

STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 12, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS:Probably, taking into account diplomatic correctness, the Co-Chairs didnt clearly mention the name Azerbaijan, but its clear for everyone that this statement was directed against Azerbaijans unconstructive policy, the Vice Speaker said.

Sharmazanov stated that by this statement the Co-Chairs highlighted the necessity to implement the Vienna, St. Petersburg and Geneva agreements. Armenia, Artsakh and the Co-Chairs have always supported it, whereas Azerbaijan not. The Co-Chairs once again highlight the need to implement these agreements which is very important, Sharmazanov noted.

The statement of the Co-Chairs says the conflict should be solved based on the core principles of the Helsinki Act, including the non-use of force, territorial integrity, and the equal rights and self-determination of peoples. According to Sharmazanov, its extremely important that in the statement the Co-Chairs once again, despite Azerbaijans unconstructive approach, highlight the peoples right to self-determination. In other words, this is an indivisible right which is highlighted by this statement, the Vice Speaker added.

The statement also criticizes the ceasefire violations as a result of which human casualties are being reported. Eduard Sharmazanov stated that everyone knows that these human losses are due to Azerbaijan. The Co-Chairs call on to avoid provocative statements. Its obvious that official Yerevan never makes provocative statements. Provocative statements were made by Azerbaijani president Ilham Aliyev who said their strategic goal is to return Yerevan and Zangezur to Azerbaijan. And in a diplomatic language this is a clear message to Azerbaijan, he said.

The Parliaments Vice Speaker stated that there is no point in the statement which is not in accordance with the position of the Armenian side, but he added that the statement would be more powerful and more complete if it clearly mentioned Azerbaijan name. But I think that its very clear to all sides, including the international community and the sides engaged in negotiations, that the messages of this statement are directed against Azerbaijans unconstructive policy. But the most important is that there is no point which is against the position of the Armenian side, Eduard Sharmazanov said.Saudi Arabia has agreed to give up control of Belgium's largest mosque in an attempt to shed its reputation as a global exporter of radical Islam.

Belgium leased the Grand Mosque to Riyadh in 1969, giving Saudi-backed imams access to a growing Muslim immigrant community in return for cheaper oil for its industry.

But it now wants to cut Riyadh's links with the mosque, near the European Union's headquarters in Brussels, over concerns its ultra-conservative brand of Islam breeds radicalism.

The Grand Mosque (pictured) was leased to Saudi Arabia in 1969, giving Saudi-backed imams access to a growing Muslim immigrant community in the city

The mosque's leaders deny it espouses violence, but European governments have grown more wary since Islamist attacks that were planned in Brussels killed 130 people in Paris in 2015 and 32 in the Belgian capital in 2016.

In April 2012, the Saudi Arabian ambassador was alerted to the fact the Belgium government were unhappy with Khalid Alabri, who was then the Great Mosque's director.

He had been found to be preaching extreme Salafist, anti-Israel and anti-West views and was quietly removed.

'The guiding principle was the primacy of Salafism above all else,' said a witness who spoke with Belgian television station RTBF at the time.

The centre's director, Jamal Momenah, made clear in 2015 that he did not want the Great Mosque to be seen as being connected to the radical Islamists of Molenbeek - the underprivileged suburbs where some of the Paris attackers lived.

However, in the wake of the Paris attacks he deflected questions as to why his mosque - with its privileged position - had not undertaken steps to exert influence over the hate preachers of Molenbeek.

Belgium's willingness to put its demands to oil-producing Saudi Arabia, a major investor and arms client, breaks with what EU diplomats describe as the reluctance of governments across Europe to risk disrupting commercial and security ties.

Riyadh's quick acceptance indicates a new readiness by the kingdom to promote a more moderate form of Islam - one of the more ambitious promises made by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman under plans to transform Saudi Arabia and reduce its reliance on oil.

The agreement last month coincides with a new Saudi initiative, not publicly announced but described to Reuters by Western officials, to end support for mosques and religious schools abroad blamed for spreading radical ideas.

The move towards religious moderation - and away from the extreme interpretation of Islam's Salafi branch that is espoused by modern jihadist groups - risks provoking a backlash at home and could leave a void that fundamentalists try to fill.

But Saudi Arabia's recent moves on religion are seen by Belgian diplomat Dirk Achten, who headed a government delegation to Riyadh in November, as a 'window of opportunity'.

'The Saudis are disposed to dialogue without taboos,' he told Belgium's parliament last month after the mission was hastily put together after the assembly urged the government to break Saudi Arabia's 99-year, rent-free lease of the mosque.

Riyadh's decision suggests a move to promote a more moderate form of Islam worldwide - and is symptomatic of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's controversial modernisation drive

But he also cautioned: 'Some do not, or barely, admit that this form of Salafism leads to jihadism.'

Details of the mosque's handover are still being negotiated but will be announced this month, Belgian Interior Minister Jan Jambon told Reuters.

The diplomatic contacts, led by the countries' foreign ministers, were intended by Belgium to prevent what Jambon called an 'exaggerated response' from Saudi Arabia - indicating the Belgian government had sought to ensure there was no diplomatic backlash.

This, he said, was 'under control' following a visit to Belgium last month by Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir.

Before Saudi Arabia took control in the late 1960s, the Grand Mosque was a disused relic of the Great Exhibition of 1880 - an Oriental Pavilion. Saudi money converted it to cater to migrants from Morocco invited to work in the country's coal mines and factories.

It is run by the Mecca-based Muslim World League (MWL), a missionary society mainly funded by Saudi Arabia.

Concerns about the mosque grew as militant groups such as Islamic State started recruiting among the grandchildren of those migrants, many of whom say they still feel they do not belong in Belgian society, opinion polls show.

In 2016 immigration minister Theo Francken (pictured) tried to expel the Grand Mosque's Egyptian imam of 13 years, calling him 'dangerous', but a judge reversed that decision

Belgium has sent more foreign fighters to Syria per capita than any other European country. Belgian officials now suggest the Muslim Executive of Belgium, a group seen as close to Moroccan officialdom, should run the Grand Mosque.

Although the Saudi government has denied any role in the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks against the United States which killed more than 3,000 people, 15 of the 19 airplane hijackers who carried them out were from Saudi Arabia and linked to late Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, the plot's Saudi-born mastermind.

Bin Laden was a follower of Wahhabism, the original strain of Salafism which has often been criticised as the ideology of radical Islamists worldwide.

Yet many of Islamic State's positions are far more radical than Wahhabism, the ultra-conservative branch of Islam dominant in Saudi Arabia and founded by 18th century cleric Mohammed ibn Abd al-Wahhab.

A classified report by Belgian security agency OCAD/OCAM in 2016 said the Wahhabi branch of Islam promoted at the mosque led Muslim youth to more radical ideas, sources with access to the report said.

'The mosque has influence to spread this hateful 'software',' a senior Belgian security source said. 'Nobody paid attention for decades.'

Belgium's parliament said what it preached was 'a gateway or even a predisposition to a more combative Islam that is violent', calling in October for an end to the Saudi lease.

The same month, immigration minister Theo Francken tried to expel the Grand Mosque's Egyptian imam of 13 years, calling him 'dangerous', but a judge reversed that decision.

But Belgian security sources say there is no proof imams at the Grand Mosque preached violence or have had links to attacks.

Some who went to fight in Syria had studied there but men are more prey to recruiters for militant groups online and on the streets of underprivileged boroughs such as Molenbeek, in Brussels, where some of the Paris attackers lived, they say.

Tamer Abou El Saod, who was appointed director of the Grand Mosque in May, says there are problems over the way it is perceived but denies it espouses a fundamentalist version of Islam. He says he is ready to work with Belgian officials.

'There are changes happening already and there are even more changes coming in the very near future,' he told Reuters.

Belgian leaders say they want the mosque to preach a 'European Islam' better aligned with their values - a familiar refrain across Europe following the Islamic State attacks of the last few years.

But it is unclear who will operate the sprawling mosque complex, which receives about 5 million euros ($6 million) a year through the MWL which has for decades promoted a hardline interpretation of Islam at dozens of institutions worldwide

The MWL has recently adopted a more conciliatory tone. In just over a year since being appointed, its secretary-general, Mohammad bin Abdul Karim al-Issa, has met with Pope Francis and taken a public stance against Holocaust denial. Issa told Reuters in November the organisation's new mission was to annihilate extremism.

For Saudi Arabia, the mosque is a chance to prove it is turning over a new leaf after years of accusations it turned a blind eye to - if not actively endorsed - extremist ideology.

Crown Prince Mohammed has already taken some steps to loosen ultra-strict social restrictions, scaling back the role of religious morality police, permitting public concerts and announcing plans to allow women to drive this summer.

The changes, however, may be too late since most militant groups that emerged at some point from Saudi networks have grown independent, says Stephane Lacroix, a scholar of Islam in Saudi Arabia.

'That this is going to solve the problem of radical Islam because if the Saudis change, everything's going to change: It's not the case,' he told Reuters.Boris Johnson will call for leavers and remainers to abandon their campaign affiliations and unite behind Brexit opportunities in his Valentine's Day speech.

Conor Burns, Mr Johnson's parliamentary aide, last night revealed more about what the Foreign Secretary planned to say.

The Foreign Secretary's intervention - the first of half a dozen major Government speeches in the coming weeks - will promote his vision of a 'liberal Brexit'.

Boris Johnson (pictured today in Bangkok) will call for leavers and remainers to abandon their campaign affiliations and unite behind Brexit opportunities in his Valentine's Day speech

The Foreign Secretary's intervention after he returns from a Far East tour (pictured) will be the first of half a dozen major Government speeches in the coming weeks

Conor Burns (file image), Mr Johnson's parliamentary aide, last night revealed more about what the Foreign Secretary planned to say

Theresa May will make the next speech on Saturday in Munich.

Her de facto deputy David Lidington will also contribute but there is no slot for either Chancellor Philip Hammond or Home Secretary Amber Rudd - both leading Remain backers.

Mr Burns told the BBC's Westminster Hour Mr Johnson - who is currently touring the Far East - hoped to heal the divisions in Wednesday's speech.

He said: 'If pessimism were a disease Boris Johnson would be immune. He thinks the country made a decision.

'The country was told whatever was decided we would abide by it.

'I think he wants us now to leave the labels of remain and leave behind, and unite in the opportunities that Brexit presents for Britain.'

Asked if Jacob Rees-Mogg and Anna Soubry - from the opposite poles of the Tory party - would listen to the message, Mr Burns added: 'Im sure Jacob will be.'

Mr Johnson has been promoting Britain abroad this week, including meeting Thailand's Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-o-Cha over night (pictured)

He said: 'Some colleagues have incredibly strong views and you could offer to reverse the decision it wouldnt make them happy.

'Its an attempt to show that you can be liberal-minded, internationalist and global and support Brexit.

'You dont have to have a Faragiste notion of the world to be a Brexit supporter.'

Mrs May is expected to focus on Britain's commitment to European security when she speaks in Germany on Saturday.

Then in around three weeks' time the Prime Minister will be outlining the government's vision in a second speech - effectively setting a deadline for hammering out an agreed position for negotiations with Brussels.

But fresh questions have been raised about the Chancellor's future after he was excluded from the speeches - after widespread condemnation from Brexiteers of his negative attitude.

Theresa May (pictured in Maidenhead yesterday) will make the next speech on Saturday in Munich, focused on security

Philip Hammond (pictured in Downing Street last week) has been frozen out of series of keynote Brexit speeches by ministers

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt, who backed Leave in the referendum campaign, insisted yesterday that the series of speeches would put 'meat on the bones' of the government's proposals.

'What the public want is they want the vision and they want some meat on the bones.

'And that's what they are going to get. And that will involve at the end of the process the Prime Minister setting out what that new partnership will look like, but it will also give some detail on our trading ambitions and relationship, what it means for devolution, and many other aspects.'

The round of speeches has been billed by Downing Street as setting out 'Britain's road map to Brexit' ahead of next month's crunch EU summit.

Mrs May will then set out her goals in a speech billed within Whitehall as the successor to her Lancaster House address last year, when she first declared that she wanted the UK to leave the single market and customs union.

Justice Secretary David Gauke tried to play down the significance of Mr Hammond's absence from the schedule, deying it was a 'plot' to sideline Remainers.

He told ITV's Peston on Sunday: 'He is not part of the set of speeches that have been outlined today, but that doesn't mean that the Chancellor is not expressing his views both internally in the Cabinet conversations, but also externally.

'So, I don't think that there really is anything in this that this is somehow any kind of plot to gag a particular faction of ministers. I don't think that's a fair characterisation at all.'

On Friday EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier complained that there were still 'problems' in Brussels 'understanding the position of the British Government'.

He also threatened to pull the plug on plans for a transition deal unless the UK caves in on accepting free movement rules and all EU laws.James Bulger's father fears that Jon Venables will attack another child if he is freed from prison.

Ralph Bulger is campaigning for the life-long anonymity of murderers Venables and Robert Thompson to be lifted.

During an emotional interview on Good Morning Britain today, he said the law needed to change to ensure other youngsters were not harmed.

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Ralph Bulger is campaigning for the life-long anonymity of murderers Jon Venables and Robert Thompson to be lifted

Venables and Thompson took two-year-old James Bulger (pictured) from the New Strand Shopping Centre in Bootle, Merseyside in February 1993

Mr Bulger told Jeremy Kyle and Kate Garraway: 'Weve got to keep on top of this person [Venables] because hes just waiting to do something in my eyes.

'I think its [their anonymity] got to be removed. You shouldnt really do it [take the law into your own hands] But the murder that they done, its in them.

You wouldnt want this person living next door to you, would you? Youd want to know who he is and where he is.

Venables and Thompson took two-year-old James Bulger from the New Strand Shopping Centre in Bootle, Merseyside in February 1993.

The toddler was found two days later on a railway embankment in Walton with horrific injuries inflicted with an iron bar and bricks; his body was left across a track, where it was cut in two by a train to make it look like an accident.

Venables and Thompson, who were ten at the time, served eight years in a young offenders institute for the crime, before being given new identities by the Home Office on their release in 2001.

Left Venables and right, Thompson, served eight years in a young offenders institute for James' murder

But Venables was arrested again in 2010 after child pornography was found on the hard drive of his computer.

He served a two-year sentence, for downloading and distributing child pornography.

Now the twisted killer is back behind bars after admitting three charges of downloading child pornography and one of possessing a paedophile manual, at the Old Bailey earlier this month.

Mr Bulger said Venables should be in prison 'for the rest of his life' or if not, he should be 'monitored 24/7'

On Venables' re-offending, Mr Bulger said: 'It makes you cringe. Listening to this stuff in the courts. All this paedophile stuff with him [Venables] and this manual he had, is just sickening.'

He added: 'It shows the laws have got to change, the laws are behind the times now. Whatever we can do now, is mainly for the public, its for their kids.

Mr Bulger said Venables should be in prison 'for the rest of his life' or if not, he should be 'monitored 24/7'.

When asked by Kyle if 'hated' his son's killers, Mr Bulger said: Hates a big word. But I would like to see them kept away from the public so they cant do anything to other children.'

Stuart Fergus (pictured) has hit out at claims his wife Denise (right) let her son James Bulger 'run around' the shopping centre he was abducted from

Mr Bulger's appearance on GMB comes days after his ex-wife wsa accused of letting him 'run around' the shopping centre where he was abducte.

Denise Fergus let go of her son's hand for a split second to pay for her shopping James was led away by Venables and Thompson.

But on the 25th anniversary of his death, Mrs Fergus has been faced with 'sick' claims she 'didn't look after him' before he was taken, by trolls online.

Her husband Stuart has rubbished the Facebook comments, telling the Sunday Mirror: 'Check the police records which state all CCTV was checked.

'He wasn't left to 'run' around the shopping centre.

'Denise states she let go of his hand to get her purse and pay for some food... turned round and he was gone. Read her book, you absolute cretin.

'Some people are so heartless and don't seem to care... what an idiot!'

The heartless messages were posted after a harrowing ITV documentary that aired this week reflecting on Thompson and Venables shocking crimes a quarter of a century on.

The infamous CCTV footage of James being led away by the boys who would go on to violently kill him

Mrs Fergus said: 'The tiny number of people posting negative comments are not worthy of comment. They are just sickening.'

Despite the social media taunts James' mother says she has been 'overwhelmed' by the wave of supportive messages she received since the ITV documentary aired - James Bulger: A Mother's Story with Trevor McDonald.

She wrote: 'I've been overwhelmed by the many thousands of kind messages I've received and the generous donations sent to our 'For James' charity.

'I can hardly express how deeply moved and touched I have been at the support that has poured in.'

The support has also seen her petition demanding a public inquiry into the handling of the case and Venables subsequent re-offending rocket.

When the petition surpassed 100,000 signatures on Saturday, Denise tweeted: 'Wow we've done it again, thanks to everyone who have signed ad shared my petition.

'Your support has once again been amazing, I'm so lucky to have you all on board.

'You have been with me throughout my very long journey and have never given up. Thank you so much.'

The documentary saw Mrs Fergus open up her home, inviting broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald to see how she remembers James.

A photo of James Bulger, who was killed just weeks before his third birthday

Disturbing police tapes also revealed how the child killers blamed each other, with Thompson bursting into tears after his confession.

He told detectives: 'He [Venables] was walking around the Strand. He grabbed hold of the baby's hand and just walked around the Strand.

'I told him to take him back. I'm getting all the blame. I'm going to get all the blame.'

Venables denied what had happened, insisting: 'We never. We never. God's honest truth.

'We never. He's a liar. I never got the boy. I never killed him mum.'

As the documentary continued, Mrs Fergus revealed she was 'relieved' when the two young boys who turned out to be her son's killers walked off with him - assuming they would not harm another child.

She was 'almost positive' she was going to get her little boy back when it emerged it was two youngsters not adults that had abducted her son.

Thompson and Venables became the youngest killers in modern British history when they were convicted of James' murder in late 1993.Owen McAvoy, 14, was on his first paper round when he was attacked by a large dog

A 14-year-old paperboy has undergone plastic surgery to his leg after suffering horrific injuries when he was attacked by a large dog.

Owen McAvoy was on his first paper round when he approached a dog walker to ask her for directions in Marton-in-Cleveland, Middlesbrough.

But before he could even finish his sentence, the huge brown and grey-coloured canine she was walking lunged at him and pulled him from his bike.

The dog's teeth sunk into Owen's calf muscle through his school trousers before it started to shake at his limb. The ten-second attack left the terrified boy with large puncture wounds to his leg.

A couple from a nearby house heard his screams before running to his aid, and Owen said his mother and stepfather were in a local street to keep an eye on him with it being his first trip delivering.

While the couple took Owen into their home, another woman drove to find his parents. Within minutes, Owen's mother and stepfather were with him, finding him covered in blood and as 'white as a sheet'.

His stepfather David, 38, a photographer, and mother Valda, 37, took Owen to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough where he underwent plastic surgery.

Injuries: The dog's teeth sunk into Owen's calf muscle through his school trousers (pictured)

Medics had to put Owen to sleep to carry out the operation, as well as inserting drains into the torn tissue, in case of infection.

He was released from hospital that night but was absent from The King's Academy school in Coulby Newham, where he is a pupil, for several days.

David, from Hemlington, said: 'We couldn't believe our eyes when we first seen him, there was blood everywhere. If the dog had done the same to a smaller child, the outcome could have proved fatal.

'Owen said he literally stopped to talk to the woman and the dog jumped up at him and pulled him off his bike and started ragging at his leg.

'The tissue was hanging out the back of his leg it was awful. He suffers with dyslexia and epilepsy so we were worried, which is why we were nearby when this happened. We're so glad we were.'

Owen's parents found their son covered in blood and as 'white as a sheet' after the attack

The stepfather managed to catch up with the dog walker and get her details before informing Cleveland Police, which has launched an investigation.

He said the police officer dealing with the incident, which happened at 6.30am on January 17, told him the dog was a Belgian breed called a Bouvier des Flandres.

David added: 'Owen may have to undergo more surgery because the wound is failing to heal. It's been a nightmare and we've felt so sorry for him. Thank you to the people that helped him. It means so much.'

A Cleveland Police spokesman told MailOnline today: 'We received a report of a teenage boy having been bitten by a dog on January 17.

'The dog's owner was identified at the time and they were spoken to and given strong words of advice - including using a muzzle and keeping the dog on a lead while out on walks - while police investigations continued.

'On February 9 an officer interviewed the dog owner. The investigating officer is currently liaising with colleagues in our dog section and inquiries are ongoing.'A piece of German intelligence that wrongly described the D-Day landings as a diversion and caused Adolf Hitler to delay his response to it has been discovered 74 years later.

The top secret telex was sent to Berlin by a man who was posing as a German spy in London, three days after the Normandy invasion started on June 6, 1944.

The agent, going by his German codename 'Alaric', had met with three other German spies, who had adopted the English names of 'Jonny', 'Dick' and 'Dorrick', to discuss the landings.

But it has emerged that the telex was actually sent by Spanish businessman Juan Pujol Garcia, known as Garbo, who was Britain's most valuable double agent.

A piece of German intelligence that wrongly described the D-Day landings as a diversion and caused Adolf Hitler to delay his response to it has been discovered 74 years later

The spies believed the operation was a 'diversion' ahead of a 'strike on a completely different location', probably Calais which was much closer to England.

Pujol was so trusted that he received the Iron Cross from Hitler who, acting on the dodgy intelligence, made one of the biggest blunders of the war.

Fearing a larger, impending Allied invasion force at Pas-de-Calais, he delayed diverting extra troops and tanks to Normandy for seven weeks after D-Day.

It proved fatal as the Allies were able to gain a strong foothold in France and within a year had liberated France, Belgium, Holland before invading Germany.

It is thought the two page telex was intercepted by MI5 who allowed it to go through.

The English translation of the German spy letter is pictured. Acting on the dodgy intelligence that the attacks were a diversion, Hitler made one of the biggest blunders of the war

It belonged to a member of staff who worked at the War Office in London for 30 years and has now been consigned for auction in Cornwall by his son.

Translated into English, the fatal message reads: 'It is my opinion that because of the strong readiness of the military troops in south east and east England and because they are not taking part in operations, the ones they do take part in are diversion manoeuvres with the purpose to draw attention to them and therefore to strike on a completely different location.

'This could under the circumstances of their continuous air strikes on the strategic locations around it, and because of the readiness of the already mentioned troops as well, be the area of Pas de Calais.

'Especially because in the eventuality of such a strike, the near located air base could give the necessary and continuous air strikes that they would need to undertake such a project.'

The telex has a pre-sale estimate of 220.

Pas-de-Calais was the closest point between France and Britain but the Allies decided against invading there because it was the most heavily fortified section of Hitler's so-called Atlantic Wall.

On the same day the telex was sent, one of Britain's most valuable double agents, Juan Pujol Garcia (left), informed Germany the landings were a 'red herring', helping to dupe Hitler (right)

However, they went to great lengths to fool the Germans into thinking the invasion would take place there.

To give the appearance of a massive troop build-up in south east England, the Allies created a largely phantom fighting force.

They broadcast endless hours of fake radio transmissions about troop movements and fashioned an armada of decoy landing crafts at the entrance to the River Thames.

Inflatable tanks were deployed and rollers used to simulate tire tracks left behind in their wake.

In the weeks leading up to and after the invasion the Allies stepped up aerial attacks on Calais including dropping aluminum strips to give false radar readings.

Fearing a larger, impending Allied invasion force at Pas-de-Calais, Hitler delayed diverting extra troops and tanks to Normandy for seven weeks after D-Day (pictured)

Ian Morris, auctioneer at Jefferys, of Lostwithiel, Cornwall, said: 'This transmission is of great historical interest, particularly when you consider its timing just three days after the D-Day landings.

'It shows the German spies evidently fell for the Allies deception because they thought the main thrust of the offensive would still take place in Pas-de-Calais.

'The vendor's father worked in the War Office for many years and took the documents when they were decommisioned.

'The traditional English names the spies refer to themselves as such as Johnny and Dick are quite amusing.

'Its contents are fascinating when it refers to the D-Day landings as diversion manoeuvres before a strike on a completely different location.'

The auction takes place on Wednesday.A woman taking a cigarette break caused chaos at a New Zealand Airport this week when she breached security requirements.

Her decision to leave the gate for a final puff led to every single passenger on the plane having to be screened by security again.

The woman was 'successfully prevented from boarding the aircraft at gate 23', according to an Aviation Security spokesman who spoke to Stuff.co.nz.

A woman taking a cigarette break caused chaos at the Auckland Airport this week

He told the online publication all passengers had to go through security again to 'ensure the terminal was secure'.

'While it is accepted that on this occasion there was no malicious intent, the security breach resulted in disruption to a number of passengers and delays to some flights,' he said.

'The breach was quickly alerted to Avsec and all airport agencies worked seamlessly to identify and locate the passenger.'

An investigation is underway to find out how the woman, who apparently didn't know she had to go through security again, had managed to re-enter the terminal.

Passengers had their flights delayed by at least two hours as they were forced to go through security again

The plane was due to leave two hours before security screening of all passengers for a second time was complete.

The mishap provided yet more stress for passengers who were already experiencing delays from fog at the airport.

Commuters took to social media to express their thoughts on delays at the airport.

'When we were at waiting for our flight the kids were all working in their homework books that I bought them and I was all "yes of course they are always like this,' one user tweeted

Aviation Security are investigating how the woman managed to re-enter the terminal after her cigarette

A Facebook user posted: 'This is why we had to queue. B* smokers,' she said.

An distressed commuter expressed concern about missing a flight on Twitter.

'Queues for security check back through retail areas,' the user wrote.

'Two out of five security stations not manned.

'Angry panic stricken passengers could miss flights. Bag drops blocked now. Help.'

While another Twitter user said: 'Auckland Airport is chaos. Flights cancelled all over the show.'Russian propaganda adverts backing Brexit had four times more impact on Twitter than the official Leave campaigns claim.

Kremlin-backed channels RT and Sputnik pumped out 260 anti EU stories which were shared so widely on Twitter they were seen up to 134 million times online.

This dwarfs the number of posts from the Vote Leave and Leave.eu campaigns, which were seen up to 33 million and 11 million each respectively.

Researchers said the findings show that the Kremlin 'won the Twitter war' and tried to interfere in Britain's politics.

The research, put together by 89up - a communication and social media analytics company - was submitted the report to MPs investigating the role of fake news.

It comes after Twitter bosses admitted last week that a single Russian troll factory ran 49 accounts and pumped out nearly 1,000 messages to try to sway the referendum.

Moscow-backed channels RT and Sputnik pumped out 260 anti EU stories which were shared so widely on Twitter they were seen up to 134 million times online (file pic of the Kremlin)

Mike Harris, its chief executive, said: 'It is a scandal that a foreign power has attempted to interfere in British democracy.

'Parliament must investigate how much the Russian government is paying social networks for their propaganda and Facebook and Twitter need to get a grip on the use of their networks by regimes who hate democracy and our values.

What are the claims concerning Russian interference in the EU referendum and why are MPs investigating them? Moscow has been accused of trying to interfere in the Brexit referendum by posting fake news and propaganda online. Russian bots and Kremlin-backed propaganda channels like Sputnik and RT are accused of posting Leave- backing articles in a bid to sway the vote. The allegations come amid evidence that the Kremlin tried to interfere in presidential elections in the US, France and elsewhere. Experts believe Moscow is turning to fake news and cyber propaganda to try to weaken Western democracies and multilateral cooperation. British MPs on the culture and media select committee have launched an investigation into fake new to probe the claims. And they made history by travelling to the US last week to take evidence from the chiefs of social media companies including Twitter after blasting the meagre written responses they got to their enquiries. Theresa May has publicly rebuked Russia for pedaling fake news in a bid to interfere with Western democracies. And she is launching a fake news unit to take on the growing threat. Advertisement

'During the EU referendum, we found that the reach of Russian propaganda on Twitter was greater than that of both official Leave campaigns combined.

'Regardless of your views on Brexit, it's important we know if public opinion is being manipulated by foreign states.'

Researchers came up with the figure by adding the number of times the post on Twitter was scrolled on and therefore could have been seen.

The agency 89up has worked for Best for Britain, a campaign to keep the UK in the European Union, but said it funded this piece of research itself.

The report details the sheer scale of Moscow's attempts to interfere in the historic EU referendum, and it warns: 'Russian state media propaganda through Facebook and Twitter led to significant online traction'.

It said that the Russian propaganda was 'starkly' pro Leave and that their articles were 'shared more than content from both of he actual Leave campaigns.'

It adds: 'Russian state media articles won the Twitter war - with significantly more Twitter impressions than any content from either anti-EU campaign website.'

It would have cost Leave campaigners around 1.35million to buy the kind of coverage which RT and Sputnik peddled out for them for free, researchers said.

The report said that social media companies like Facebook and Twitter face a number of serious questions following their research.

This includes how much RT and Sputnik actually spent n their platforms in the lead up to the vote, and will they check if articles are actually being pumped out by Russian bots.

The research was handed to the culture and media select committee of MPs who are investigating fake news.

It comes amid claims that social media sites were hijacked by Kremlin-backed propaganda channels and bots which pumped out articles to try to sway the referendum vote.

Twitter - including its chairman Jack Dorsey, pictured - must do more to spell out exactly what they are doing to try to crack down on Kremlin interference in British politics, the report by 89up found

Damian Collins, the committee chairman, said that social media companies such as Twitter and Facebook should notify Britons who may have been exposed to propaganda during the campaign.

His committee last week heard evidence from Twitter executive Nick Pickles who said a single troll factory sent out some 942 messages during the fiercely contested referendum vote.

But he insisted the suspect accounts won 'very low levels of engagement' from users.

The culture committee is investigation fake news amid fears the Brexit vote could have been influence by interference from abroad.

Similar investigations are being carried out by US politicians into Donald Trump's election as President.This is the shocking moment a husband in China drove his car straight through the wall of a multi-storey car park while bending over to pick up his belongings.

The car, a Chevrolet, flipped and landed on its roof after plunging down from the second storey on February 4 in Chongqing, reported Chinese news outlet CGTN.

Both the driver and his wife, who was on the passenger seat, reportedly survived the accident with minor injuries.

The driver was heading to an exist of a car park in China while losing control of his car

He plunged straight to the ground after crashing through the war of the multi-storey structure

The accident took place around noon in a car park on Furen Lu in Chongqing's Nan'an district.

The driver, known by his surname Zhang, had apparently been trying to pick up a USB cable before losing control of the white vehicle.

Panicked by the situation, he stepped on the accelerator instead of the brake, which caused him to crash into the wall, said CGTN.

Mr Zhang and his wife were pulled out of the car by onlookers and security guards, reported Chongqing Morning Post. They are said to have been slightly injured.

Police are investigating the accident.

The driver, Mr Zhang, had apparently been trying to pick up a USB before losing controlAdvertisement

Poldark fans can now stay in the former home of the real-life mine captain believed to have inspired the iconic Cornish character.

The property, called Zenith, is the former home of Captain John Middleton, who managed the East Wheal Rose mine in the 19th century and had many characteristics similar to Winston Graham's hero Captain Ross Poldark.

The Georgian property is near Perranporth where Graham moved in 1935 aged 17 and lived for 34 years, and where he set his novels about the mysterious mine captain.

The Grade II-listed house is now a lucrative holiday let that can be rented for as much as 3,950 for a week.

The five-bedroom detached home, called Zenith, (pictured) is near Perranporth and was the home of the man believed to have inspired the Poldark character

The property has been transformed into a lucrative holiday home which can be rented for as much as 3,950 for a week

It comes with a huge modern kitchen and a large aga style oven and Captain John Middleton moved into Zenith and ran a mine in Cornwall

There is also a large dining area inside close to the kitchen and a huge area in the garden and a full-sized dining table can go

Aidan Turner plays Ross Poldark in the hugely popular BBC period drama and has won an army of fans after showing off his body in the show

The five-bedroom house was built in 1818 for John Giddy, the mine captain and manager of the original Wheal Rose mine, but it was the man who came after him who may have been Graham's inspiration.

Capt Middleton was a military man, like Ross Poldark who is played by Aidan Turner in the hit BBC series, and returned to Cornwall from time abroad where he became a mine captain.

He gained a reputation as a kind boss held in high esteem by the workers. Unlike most mine captains he would stand up for his workers against authority when needed, much like Poldark does in Graham's stories.

Capt Middleton discovered Middleton's Lode, the largest and most lucrative deposit of silver and lead ever found in Cornwall.

It was off the back of this discovery that Capt Middleton moved into Zenith and ran what was the most lucrative and dangerous mine in Cornwall.

The mine is well known as the site of Cornwall's worst mining disaster in 1846 when storms caused flashflooding which filled the mine with water while 200 workers were underground - 39 miners drowned.

Owners Emma and Paul Caddis said: 'When we moved to Zenith we became intrigued by its former owner and the story of a mine captain who was noted throughout Cornwall.

'Captain Middleton was, unlike most mine captains, renowned for his care and consideration of workers and regarded in the highest esteem as a person.

'He was known to stand up for the workers and go against authority when needed, which was no mean feat in those times.

'During the time he lived at Zenith, Middleton's Lode was mined out and Captain Middleton presided over one of the most lucrative and dangerous mines in Cornwall.

'And it was the stories of danger, heroism and villainy that really make Captain Middleton stand out.

The current owners moved in to the property and 'became intrigued' by the former owner because of the story of the mine captain

Each room inside the spacious home comes with its own period features and is now used a holiday let which attracts an income of up to 3,950 each week

The property is near to Holywell Bay and the owner can walk down to the beach and enjoy the spectacular views of the coastline

'He survived disasters, robberies and a scandalous theft involving many men defrauding the mine working in secret at night.

'We are still researching what became of him but he stands as one of the most renowned and important mine characters of the time.

'The surrounding area was the stamping ground of Captain Middleton. This too was the landscape of Poldark and author Winston Graham.

'It seems not by chance the BBC use Holywell Bay as their seascape for Poldark.

'Captain Middleton's story was still to be had when Winston Graham lived in Perranporth so did Ross Poldark live in Zenith? Well if the life and times of Captain Middleton are anything to go by, yes.'

When the couple bought the house in 2015 it was in need of renovation to bring it up to modern standards - they had to re-wire and change the plumbing and completely overhaul the house.

From the outside it might look exactly as it would have in Capt Middleton's day, but inside it has had a modern Georgian-style makeover with elegant furniture and artwork.

The light and airy house sleeps up to ten people with three double bedrooms, one twin room and a bedroom with a zip-and-link superking-size bed.

It has over an acre of grounds with a honeysuckle archway and orchard and is just five miles from the sandy beaches of Crantock and Holywell Bay.

The property is now available to book through Unique Home Stays.

It can be rented for ten people or for six sleeping in three of the rooms. Prices start from 1,495 for six people for four nights up to 3,950 for a week for ten people in peak season.

Francesca Read, from Unique Home Stays, said: 'The owners' extensive research into the history of their home in connection with Captain Middleton and the local mines does lead us to believe that it's very likely the real Poldark did indeed once live at Zenith.

'As the property's marketing agent, this is a hugely exciting revelation.

'We've seen an influx of visitors to Cornwall following the Poldark saga and now guests have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic Poldarkian experience first-hand - riding the very horse used in the filming at nearby Reen Manor Stables and staying in an exquisite period home where 'Poldark' may have slept himself.'A man who filmed himself punching an 18-month-old girl in the face and sent the video to her grandparents demanding money has been jailed for 17 years.

Deividas Subacius, 29, hit the toddler causing swelling and bruising to her eye which a detective described as 'worst case of physical abuse in a child' he had ever dealt with.

Subacius pressured her grandparent's with the abusive video saying he wanted 130 or he would continue to harm the child.

When the child was examined doctors found eight healed fractures to the little girl's bones including her femur, wrist, collarbone and ribs.

Deividas Subacius, 29 who filmed himself punching an 18-year-old girl causing bruising and swelling to her eye and sent the video to her grandparents demanding money has been jailed for 17 years

Detective Constable Clemie Yaxley said: 'This is the worst case of physical abuse in a child that I have had to deal with in my entire career.

'Had it not been for the grandparents acting in a protective manner the outcome would have been very different.

'I'm happy to say that the child is now being well cared for and has no significant lasting injuries as a result of this incident.'

Subacius, of Badgeney Road, March, admitted at Cambridge Crown Court to actual bodily harm, grievous bodily harm and blackmail, Cambridgeshire Police said.

An NSPCC spokesperson said: 'This is a shocking case in which Subacius inflicted sickening violence on a defenceless toddler and then attempted to use his young victim's suffering for monetary gain.

Subacius was sentenced at Cambridge Crown Court charged with actual bodily harm, grievous bodily harm and blackmail

'He is a clear danger to children and it is right that he will now spend a long time behind bars for these appalling crimes.

'Abuse of this kind can cause severe and permanent harm to children and it is fortunate that the quick actions of the victim's grandparents and the police have helped ensure that this child has been able to recover from the physical damage inflicted.

'Anyone concerned about the welfare of a child should act immediately. The NSPCC helpline is available on 0808 800 5000 for advice and support.'The Karabakh conflict can be solved through exclusively peaceful means, President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev said during his visit to Armenia.

February 12, 2018, 14:48 Bulgaria president: There is only peaceful solution to Karabakh conflict

STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 12, ARTSAKHPRESS:Bulgaria has a clear position: the conflict should be solved peacefully under the mediation of the OSCE Minsk Group and with the assistance of the EU, Radev said during a joint press conference with his Armenian counterpart Serzh Sargsyan.

He highlighted the importance of an active dialogue between the presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Dialogue should be based less on emotions and more on wisdom, Radev said, adding that Bulgaria during the presidency of the EU Council will assist in the implementation of this position.Daniel Baker, 38, spent 25 years trying to find his long lost father - only to track him down on LinkedIn

A son spent 25 years searching for his estranged father - then found him on professional networking website LinkedIn.

Daniel Baker started hunting for his real dad when he discovered his stepfather wasn't his biological father at the age of 15.

But after years of looking for Paul, who flew in Lynx helicopters in the army, Daniel, now 38, thought it was a lost cause.

It was only when he was searching for the details of another friend that he had the idea to search on LinkedIn.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Daniel, a music producer, said: 'Paul Baker is such a common name. I'd tried everything. Before the internet, it was even more difficult. I used research agencies and the Salvation Army.

'I knew he was in the army as my mum gave me some little bits of information.

'She told me that he'd just never come home one day, and that eventually he'd married a Canadian lady and left the army.

Reunion: Daniel pictured with his real father Paul when he flew out to see him in Canada after tracking him down online. Daniel took his daughter Cady, 18, pictured, to see her grandfather

Daniel is pictured with his mother Elizabeth (left) and as a child with his older brother, Lee

'I typed in his name on LinkedIn, including his middle name, and there was just one result in Canada.

'I remember looking at the profile picture and thinking 'you don't look anything like me'. I scrolled down his profile. I looked at the job history and saw that he had served in the army. My blood ran cold.'

It took no time for Daniel to search for his father's business online and find a phone number.

He said: 'I looked at the phone, thinking 'you have to do this'. I rang and he picked up. 'I said, 'Hi, are you my dad?' That was all I could say.

'He replied, 'I might be, what's your name?' 'I told him and he said 'do you have a brother called Lee? Then yes, I'm your dad.'

Daniel searched on social media for his father - but struggled because the name Paul Baker is so common. It wasn't until he looked for him on LinkedIn he knew that he found the right one. He said that his 'blood ran cold' when he knew that he had found him

The two spent an hour talking on the phone. Daniel discovered that his father, who had been a helicopter navigator and weapons system operator in the Army Air Corps, had been searching for him for years while he was living in Germany with his mum and stepdad, who was also in the army.

He added: 'I have this memory of a commotion outside the door of where we were staying on the military base in Soest, Germany. I didn't know this at the time, but my real dad says that was him trying to find me and my brother.

'But he said the military put a gagging order on him and told him he could be court martialled if he tried to find us again. That was around 1992. I only found out that I had a real dad when my parents were summonsed to court in the UK by my dad, who was still trying to find us. I was 15.

'My memory of that is just a blur. I remember my stepdad crying, all of us crying. I remember hugging my stepdad, and saying 'no, you're my real dad, you're my real dad'.'

The family lived in 16 locations around Germany, moving bases with the air corps, until Daniel's 11-year-old sister Charlotte tragically died of meningitis and the family started to fall apart.

Daniel found his father's company phone number and Paul confirmed that he was his biological father in an emotional two-hour call. In December Daniel took his daughter Cady over to Canada (pictured on the flight) to meet her grandfather

Daniel, his mother Elizabeth and brother Lee were sent back to England to live in the Cotswolds, but his mother struggled with mental health issues after the death of her daughter.

He said: 'Back then I didn't get the gravity of the situation and what my mum must have been going through. I didn't know that she had been in and out of hospital as I was away at school in Bournemouth.'

Daniel said his relationship with his mother and stepfather deteriorated and he left home at 16.

Daniel, a father of one, now living in Southampton, Hants, said he had not had a close relationship with his mother for years but since finding his real dad they have been in touch again.

In December last year after their phone call reunion, Paul paid for Daniel and Daniel's 18 year old daughter Cady to fly out to Ontario, Canada, and meet their long lost family.

Cady is pictured in Ontario, Canada, with her grandfather - Daniel's biological father, Paul

Of his trip, Daniel (pictured with daughter Cady) 'When we landed, I ran up to him and hugged him and everyone at the airport was staring at us because we were all screaming.'

Daniel said: 'After going from a family of five, to nothing, I now have a family of over 50 people. They all knew who I was. And there are so many similarities - we are all musical. Flying out there, I never felt nervous or awkward, I was just excited.

'When we landed, I ran up to him and hugged him and everyone at the airport was staring at us because we were all screaming.'

Paul will visit Daniel in May, when he comes to Southampton for his annual military reunion day. Daniel's brother Lee, 37, is yet to meet their father, but the brothers have plans to fly to Canada in July.Photographs showing President Donald Trump's hair blowing in the wind have led plastic surgeons to speculate on whether he has had scalp reduction treatment or a hair transplant.

A video released last week shows the commander-in-chief hopping up the steps to Air Force One at Joint Air Base Andrews before flying to Mar-a-Lago on February 2.

But as he bounded up the carpeted stairs, his wispy orange locks were whipped by the stern breeze.

Scroll down for video

A video released last week shows the commander-in-chief hopping up the steps to Air Force One at Joint Air Base Andrews before flying to Mar-a-Lago on February 2. Pictured: What appears to be a scar on Trump's scalp

One flap of hair flipped over on the side of his head to expose an apparent bald spot - and what could be a scar.

In 1990, Trump's ex-wife Ivana claimed in a divorce deposition that the property mogul had been given scalp reduction surgery in 1989.

She said he had been worked on by plastic surgeon Steven Hoefflin, who former clients included Michael Jackson and Elizabeth Taylor.

But Trump denied the claim in 1993 - and has repeatedly insisted his hair is entirely his own.

In 1990, Trump's ex-wife Ivana (left with Trump before the alleged surgery) claimed in a divorce deposition that the property mogul had been given scalp reduction surgery in 1989. Right: Trump on Friday

A grab from the video shows the large patch of pink skin that was exposed by the wind. Johns Hopkins University professor of otolaryngology Dr Lisa Ishii told the Daily Beast the scalp reduction operation is difficult and dangerous, but said she didn't think Trump had it

Michael Wolff, in his book Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, also claimed the president has had scalp reduction surgery.

Now the Daily Beast has spoken to two plastic surgeons about whether the president has undergone scalp reduction treatment.

The procedure involves cutting away pieces of bald scalp from the crown to push hairier parts of the scalp close together.

What is scalp reduction surgery, the treatment reportedly undergone by Donald Trump in 1989? Scalp reduction surgery is a procedure used to treat hair loss in both sexes, particularly top-hair baldness. The operation involves moving skin that has hair on the scalp to cover bald patches. For example, skin from the sides of the head might be pulled up and stitched together to cover top-of-head baldness. Scalp reduction surgery is usually only recommended for people who have not had success with medication. Eligible people must have: Healthy scalp skin that has enough elasticity to be pulled over the head

Significant 'donor hairs' on each side and on the back of the head

Hair loss related to age or genetics Scale reduction does not work for: People with multiple bald patches around their scalp

Temporary hair loss caused by stress or illness After the procedure, hair on the top of the head may look slightly different to the rest. New hair may also take up to 12 weeks to grow. Risks of the surgery include: Infection

Tingling sensations

Swelling

Numbness

Temporary hair loss

Bleeding around the skin that was stretched

Scarring There is a risk hair follicles may not take to their new position and fail to grow. Source: HealthLine Advertisement

Johns Hopkins University professor of otolaryngology Dr Lisa Ishii told the Daily Beast the operation is difficult and dangerous.

She said: 'Scalp skin is very stiff skin. It's very hard to pull together the skin edges and get them to close to each other if you cut out anything beyond a half dollar size piece of skin.

'If you had a large bald area, you'd have to have several procedures in a row before you actually achieved your goal to cut out the bald spot,' she said. 'You can't do it in one fell swoop.'

Dr Ishii added that scalp reduction surgery was replaced by the safer and more effective hair transplant procedure in the 1990s.

Ishii said she doubts Trump had scalp reduction surgery - 'an outdated procedure' - but said he may have had a hair transplant.

Dr Samuel Lam, owner of the Lam Institute for Hair Restoration, does not agree.

He said: 'If you see a vertical incision on the back of the scalp on the crown, that's very typical of a scalp reduction.'

Trump 'most likely' had the treatment, Dr Lam added.A wildlife photographer who uploaded shots of a starving lion pride feasting on a dead buffalo was left shocked after the images were deleted.

Bobby-Jo Vial, 35, from Dubbo, New South Wales, was at the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in South Africa when she captured the grisly scene last week.

Ms Vial uploaded the images to her Facebook business page on Wednesday, only to return later the same day and find the entire page had been shut down.

Bobby-Jo Vial, 35, from Dubbo, New South Wales, was following a pride of starving lions in South Africa when she found them enjoying a buffalo kill

Vial managed to capture this shot showing how one of the cubs crawled into the carcass and began devouring it from the inside out

She had been locked out of the page and was told by an automated message that her images 'breached community standards' by glorifying violence.

Bobby-Jo, who is the co-founder of Duma Safaris and currently lives in South Africa, said: 'I was excited to share the images of my photography so that my family, friends and followers could see the wonderful news that the pride had caught some food.

'I felt that I had captured a very raw wildlife moment. The images proved popular straight away.

'People were blown away about the little cub inside the buffalo and all the comments were extremely positive.

'It felt wonderful to share this unique moment with so many people, people that might never get the chance to experience wild lions of travel to Africa.

'A few hours later I tried to access my Facebook account but I had been locked out. I received a notice to say that I had breached Facebook community standards by posting graphic and violent images.'

Vial posted the images to her Facebook business page but came back later to find they had been deleted and the page locked for 'glorifying violence'

Bobby-Jo said Facebook also threatened to take down her business page if she continued to post images of this nature.

She said: 'There was no option to appeal, just a little box I had to tick to acknowledge the message. All of my photos were deleted, all the comments gone.

'I had also shared one of the images on my private Facebook profile, whilst they did not delete this, they did cover it with a graphic warning content message.

'I sent several messages to the Facebook support team to ask them why my pictures violated their community terms but they did not acknowledge my request.'

Facebook did eventually restore the images and apologised for taking them down, but insisted they be covered by a 'graphic gore' warning.

Bobby-Jo said the censorship of her images was very upsetting and could have wider implications for showing nature as it is, and the problems wildlife might face.

She said: 'I was absolutely devastated, capturing the truth of nature as a wildlife photographer is my job. Once again nature loses out.

'I immediately posted about this to my family and friends, they couldn't believe it.

'Would two lions pictured mating be deemed as sexual content?'

Bobby-Jo has been following the Avoca pride for the past four years and can identify most of the members of this 17-strong big cat family.

She said: 'They are wild animals but I feel quite attached to them so recently when I returned back to Timbavati, I noticed that the mothers and their cubs were looking weak and thin.

'There are five cubs that are around 12 months of age which is a crucial development time.

Vial said she wants to represent nature at its most raw and fought back against the social media site for attempting to censor her (pictured, lions from the same pride)

Facebook did eventually restore the images and send Vial an apology, but they have been covered by a 'graphic gore' warning

'I was very concerned for their wellbeing, but as always nature surprises us, and the next morning we found them with a buffalo carcass.'

For the photographs of the pride eating the buffalo Bobby-Jo used a Canon 1DX MKII and she was around 10 metres from the action.

She said: 'I noticed that one cub in particular was very possessive of the buffalo and he started to climb inside the carcass from the stomach area.

'The adult lions had eaten the backside of the buffalo first and I knew this could be a unique photo opportunity.

'We positioned our vehicle so that I could capture the cubs face through the carcass. At first all I could see was a pair of little yellow eyes staring back at me and I pressed the shutter with excitement.'

Bobby-Jo said another reason sharing wildlife images was so important for lions across Africa was that the feline was facing a silent extinction from poaching, snaring and habitat loss with had seen numbers plummet in 100 years from 200,000 to around 20,000.

An organisation hoping to stem the tide of lion destruction is the charity Kope Lion, a conservation initiative.Former Labor Senator Sam Dastyari has unleashed on Barnaby Joyce and his affair with a Nationals staffer, saying 'everyone' in politics knew about their relationship.

Dastyari resigned in disgrace last year after being caught tipping off a member of a Chinese community party that his phone may have been tapped by authorities.

The former General Secretary of Labor in New South Wales went on a tirade over Joyce's scandal on Twitter Monday night, the first time he has tweeted since November last year, saying he was exiled for 'a LOT less'.

'Hey Twitter - am I allowed back ? (So much to say about Barnaby),' Dastyari said.

'1.Everyone. And I mean EVERYONE in Federal Parliament knew about Vicki and Barnaby. Anyone who claims they didn't know Is either bulls****ing or so out of touch they shouldn't be in Parliament.'

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Former Labor Senator Sam Dastyari has unleashed on Barnaby Joyce and his affair with a Nationals staffer, saying 'everyone' in politics knew about their relationship

Mr Joyce's marital breakdown became public knowledge late last year when he returned to Parliament as Deputy PM

Mr Joyce, 50, and his former staffer Vikki Campion, 33, (pictured) were recently given the keys to the three-bedroom townhouse

The former General Secretary of Labor in New South Wales went on a tirade over Joyce's scandal on Twitter Monday night,

Dastyari claimed Joyce's relationship with Vikki Campion, who is now pregnant with his child, is a 'clear breach of the rules'.

It has been revealed Ms Campion was moved to a $191,000-a-year senior advisor position on senator Matt Canavan's payroll after her relationship with Mr Joyce became the subject of rumour, The Australian reported.

The pair will be reportedly living rent-free for six months - saving a whopping $14,000 - in the New England property owned by businessman Greg Maguire.

'2. The job relocation is a clear breach of the rules. We all assumed it would come out during the by-election,' Dastyari posted to Twitter Monday night.

'For f***s sale (sic) - how can you construe the pregnant woman Barnaby left his wife for as NOT his 'partner'. Who was she then?????'

Dastyari claimed Joyce's relationship with Vikki Campion, who is now pregnant with his child, is a 'clear breach of the rules'

A spokesman for the prime minister said Mr Joyce (pictured) had not breached ministerial standards because Ms Campion was not the deputy prime minister's 'partner' at the time of her appointments to the offices of Matt Canavan and Mr Drum

The Deputy Prime Minister was photographed with Ms Campion at a bar in inner-west Glebe, Sydney on February 23, 2017

He then tweeted directly at the embattled deputy prime minister, saying he lost his job for actions less severe.

'Hey @Barnaby_Joyce, I went for a LOT less. Quit while you are behind. Trust me - it only gets a LOT worse from here,' he said.

Dastyari also took the opportunity to criticise Julie Bishop, who labelled Labor MP's as 'people in glass houses' following their attack on Joyce following the revelations of his affair.

'And @JulieBishopMP with reference to 'glass houses' - I'm totally out of Parliament so very happy to go 'tit-for-tat' for every Conservative f***ing around. BRING IT ON (seriously, I'm sooooo bored),' he said.

He then tweeted directly at the embattled deputy prime minister, saying he lost his job for actions less severe

Dastyari also took the opportunity to criticise Julie Bishop, who labelled Labor MP's as 'people in glass houses' following their attack on Joyce following the revelations of his affair

Mr Joyce is expecting a child with Ms Campion after it was revealed he with his wife of 24-years, Natalie, with whom he shares four children (pictured together)

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was grilled on the issue during Question Time in Parliament on Monday, but largely deflected any explanation to the other party in his Coalition.

Turnbull said the Nationals were provided with a specific number of personal staff positions as a share of the government's overall staffing pool.

'The distribution of those staff members between Nationals offices is a matter for the National Party,' Mr Turnbull said.

'At no time did the Nationals fill all vacant staffing positions.'

The prime minister said Mr Joyce had made it clear the employment of Ms Campion was never discussed with him or the prime minister's office.

However the prime minister's office 'has an administrative role in informing the department of Finance of changes', Mr Turnbull said.Travellers who set up a campsite on green belt land without planning permission have been allowed to stay for at least three years because forcing them to leave would breach their 'human rights'.

They refused to move from moorland off New Hey Road at Scammonden, West Yorkshire, where they have set up an unauthorised site.

After failing to get planning permission from Kirklees Council they took the issue to a formal appeal which was heard at Huddersfield Town Hall.

The travellers refused to move from moorland off New Hey Road at Scammonden, West Yorkshire, where they have set up an unauthorised site (pictured recently)

Now the inspector, John Murray, has made his ruling and granted the travellers the right to stay for a three year temporary period as they have 'very special circumstances'.

Mr Murray said forcing them to leave would 'constitute a serious interference with their human rights.'

After three years the land must be fully restored to how it was before.

The site, near the former Nont Sarah's pub, was set up at the start of last year and only then did the travellers seek planning permission, which was refused.

They then ignored deadlines to quit the site, which they own. The plans were for a development of pitches for four families of Irish travellers.

Each would have two caravans - one mobile and the other touring - and there would be another static caravan too, making nine in total.

Cars would also be parked on the site.

The retrospective application was submitted to Kirklees Council by Warwickshire-based development consultant Philip Brown, who said previously: 'They felt they had to get on with it. In their view they did not have any choice.

After failing to get planning permission the group took the issue to a formal appeal which was heard at Huddersfield Town Hall. Pic: Tractors working at the site in September last year

'When you are in a position of having appropriate accommodation you have that choice, but if that's not the case then you act in the best way you can for your family and they felt they had to move so it was a case of doing things as quickly as possible.

'They have moved from housing which was causing them a lot of problems.

This housing is not what they are used to and it does have an effect on travellers' mental health.

'I know this is difficult for people who live in houses to understand but travellers do have an aversion to living in bricks and mortar.'

The appeal decision reveals that the green belt land has now been replaced by 3,000 square yards of hard surface with the site concealed from public view with banking up to three yards high.

It states that the site 'conflicts with one of the purposes of green belt, namely to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment' and causes 'moderate harm to the character and appearance of the area.'

Now the inspector, John Murray, has made his ruling and granted the travellers the right to stay for a three year temporary period as they have 'very special circumstances'. Pic: The site

But it adds: 'The council concedes that it cannot identify any pitches to meet the need identified in the Kirklees Gypsy and Traveller and Travelling Showperson Accommodation Assessment, August 2015 (GTAA) or demonstrate that it has a five year supply of specific deliverable sites.

'It follows that the council has an immediate need for at least 10 pitches to meet the needs of the traveller community and has failed to identify a supply of sites to meet its five year needs.'

The appeal reveals details of the families at the site which is home to Thomas Ward, his three adult sons and their wives along with 10 children aged from one to 13 with two babies due in the next few months.

Only these families will be allowed to live on the site.

The plans were for a development of pitches for four families of Irish travellers. Each would have two caravans - one mobile and the other touring. Pic: The site as it currently looks

The report states: 'They typically travel for six to eight months of the year and the wives and children have travelled with them during school holidays.

'Their work includes property maintenance and construction, block paving, laying tarmac, painting and decorating, buying and selling vans and caravans and horse trading.'

The appeal summary states that the families cannot carry out 'commercial activities' at the site.

And it concludes: 'Since there is a lack of available, alternative sites, it is likely that dismissing these appeals would force the family to resort to roadside camping.

'With 10 young children and two more babies on the way I attach significant weight to the appellants' and their family's personal circumstances.

'I find that the personal circumstances of the site occupiers taken with the overall need for sites and the absence of any suitable alternative accommodation would justify a grant of temporary and personal planning permission.'A duty free store in London's Heathrow Airport has been under fire after a social media post claimed it demanded Chinese shoppers spend significantly more money than other customers in order to be given a discount voucher.

The post claimed that passengers bound for China would have to spend 1,000 to receive a VIP voucher; whereas customers from other countries would only need to spend 79 to be given the same voucher.

Chinese people have accused the store in World Duty Free as well as Heathrow Airport of discrimination after the online post became widely shared over the weekend. Many are also saying they would avoid the store.

The Chinese public have been enraged after a social media post claimed Chinese passengers had to spend significantly more money than the others to obtain a discount voucher. The author of the post included pictures of the said voucher (above) in the viral post

The post claimed that incident occurred at a World Duty Free store at Heathrow Terminal 2 (file photo). The outrage occurred days before 6.5 million Chinese people are set to travel overseas

The outrage occurred just days before the Lunar New Year, which would see a record-breaking 6.5 million Chinese people shopping and holidaying overseas.

World Duty Free, one of the largest travel retailers in the UK, apologised to the Chinese people over the matters on Monday.

The company said it had taken 'urgent steps to correct the implementation of this promotion going forward.'

While a Heathrow spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We have been made aware of this offer which we find unacceptable.

'We are currently working with our commercial partner to understand how this happened and ensure it does not happen again.'

The social media post (above) had over 15,000 comments and 83,000 shares within a day

Air China operates two flights a day to Beijing from the Terminal 2 at Heathrow (file photo)

The viral post was published on Sunday on Weibo, the Chinese equivalent to Twitter. It gained more than 15,000 comments and 83,000 shares within a day.

The author, whose screen name is 'ren jian nai pao', claimed to be a Chinese student working part-time for the World Duty Free store at Heathrow Terminal 2.

According to the post, the World Duty Free store offers a type of VIP voucher. The voucher apparently allows a shopper who has spent certain amount of money in the shop to enjoy a 20 per cent discount on their next purchase.

The author claimed to have worked in the store for about six months and that the 'certain amount' had been 250 throughout the period.

In a statement on Chinese social media (above), World Duty Free said it had corrected the issue

However, on a recent occasion when the author tried to help a female Chinese shopper obtain a VIP voucher, the shopper was rejected.

The post claimed a cashier at the store said: 'Because she's Chinese, need [sic] to spend 1,000 to get voucher.'

The author also claimed that a manager at the store said the policy had taken effect just two hours earlier and was applied only on passengers who were flying to China. Apparently, the same manager admitted to the author that the policy was indeed 'unfair'.

World Duty Free said in a bilingual statement on Weibo on Monday that their VIP programme applies regardless of the destination customers are flying to.

The post has sparked an outrage among the Chinese, who love duty-free shopping (file photo)

Over 1.1 million passengers travelled between Heathrow and China in 2016. Many of them would splurge on duty-free products as gifts for friends and families back home (file photo)

In recent years, shops across the UK have been trying to woo deep-pocketed customers from the Far East.

Most luxury brands in major shopping malls as well as duty-free stores in airports have hired Chinese-speaking sales assistants in order to communicate with their potential customers.

The allegations put forward by the social media post have enraged the Chinese people who live in China and UK.

Many Chinese web users have shared the 'unfair' treatment they had received while shopping at Heathrow.

A spokesperson at Heathrow told MailOnline that the incident was 'unacceptable' (file photo)

Ms Jiang, a Chinese human resources officer working in London, told MailOnline that she was deeply upset after reading the post.

Ms Jiang, who flew to China from Heathrow three times last year, said she spent money in the duty free shops every single time.

She said she couldn't understand why a store would launch such a policy while trying to encourage Chinese customers to spend money.

She demanded World Duty Free release a detailed explanation on its discount policy.

Over 1.1 million passengers travelled between Heathrow and China in 2016, a 7.3 per cent increase from the year before. Many of them would splurge on duty-free products as gifts for friends and families back home.

In a statement to MailOnline on Monday, World Duty Free said: 'We would like to offer our sincere apologies to our customers who were in any way made to feel this was not the case.'

The company said the implementation of this promotion had been confusing and it sincerely regretted it.

The statement also said: 'After close self-examination and having made further investigations, we have taken urgent steps to correct the implementation of this promotion going forward.

'We have comprehensively re-briefed our staff in our stores to ensure that the promotion is clear.'Emily Cilliers (pictured outside the Old Bailey on Monday) faces a retrial in April accused of trying to murder his wife

An army sergeant accused of trying to kill his wife by tampering with her parachute before she jumped from 4,000ft today appeared in court.

Emile Cilliers, 37, faces a retrial in April where he is accused of twice attempting to murder Victoria Cilliers, 40.

Cilliers is said to have sabotaged his wife's parachute before it failed to deploy when she made the jump in Wiltshire in 2015.

Mrs Cilliers, an experienced army physiotherapist and parachute instructor, suffered near-fatal injuries after the dive on Easter Sunday in April.

She sustained a broken leg, collarbone and cracked ribs when the main and reserve chute failed to deploy properly, causing her to spiral out of control on Salisbury Plain.

Prosecutors claim South African-born Cilliers tampered with the parachute just days after deliberately damaging a gas valve at the family home in Amesbury, Wiltshire, in a bid to kill his wife.

The jury in the first trial failed to reach a verdict having poured over the evidence for approximately 30 hours at Winchester Crown Court following a seven-week trial.

Cilliers was based in Aldershot, Hampshire, and worked with the Royal Army Physical Training Corps - attached to the Royal Engineers.

The a father-of-six, attended the Old Bailey today dressed in a smart black suit for hisbrief pre-trial review hearing in front of Mr Justice Sweeney.

Cilliers, of the Aldershot Barracks, denies two counts of attempted murder and one count of criminal damage as to recklessly endanger life.Tributes have been paid to a Scottish comedy industry figure who helped launch the careers of Paul Merton, David Baddiel and Jack Dee.

Kim Kinnie was the original booker for the Comedy Store in London, the legendary stand-up venue where many of the country's top acts started out.

He gave breaks to a generation of comedians that have gone to become household names and was a familiar figure standing and smiling at the sound desk with a glass of red wine.

Kinnie left the Comedy Store in the 1990s, after it moved to its current Piccadilly Circus location, to become a producer for STV in Glasgow.

Kim Kinnie was the original booker for the Comedy Store in London, the legendary stand-up venue where many of the country's top acts started out

He died in Glasgow in the early hours of Sunday morning following a battle with cancer.

His death led to an outpouring of grief and tributes from famous comedians who credited him as a mentor.

Julian Clary wrote on Twitter: 'Kim Kinnie helped so many of us on our way. RIP.'

Comic David Baddiel said: 'Ah. Kim gave me my first gigs at The Comedy Store. He was a mentor and a mensch. RIP.'

Former Whose Line Is It Anyway star Josie Lawrence posted: 'RIP Kim Kinnie. Blessed to have known such a wonderful man.'

Have I Got News For You star Paul Merton (left) was among those at the Comedy Store in London to raise a glass of red wine to Kim Kinnie yesterday

Paul Merton (left) praised Kinnie in his autobiography, saying he was a 'great encourager of talent', while David Baddiel (right) has paid tribute after his mentor's death

Stand-up Kevin Day said: 'Comedy has lost a tiny giant. Spiritual godfather to many comedians, actual godfather to one, Kim Kinnie has left the building. RIP dear man.

'Kim was the booker at the Comedy Store in the 80s/90s. He was responsible for the fame of many comedians and the profits of many vineyards. His advice was always right if not always wanted and his hard stare would make Paddington Bear queasy. I loved him.'

Have I Got News For You star Paul Merton wrote in his autobiography: 'Kinnie was a great encourager of talent, providing he liked you. Lots of comedians, myself included, benefitted from his advice.'

Merton was among a number of comics who raised a glass of red wine to Kinnie at the Comedy Store on Sunday night.

Comedians Kevin Day, Fred MacAulay, Mark Thomas and Arthur Smith were among those to pay tribute on social media

After moving into later television, Kinnie produced the Scottish series The Funny Farm which gave broadcaster and comic Fred MacAulay his first big break.

MacAulay said: 'Awfully sad to hear that KimKinnie has died. Always full of advice. And often encouragement. He was instrumental in this fledgling comedian's career.'

Also among those who paid tribute was Pop Idol winner Michelle McManus who had worked with Kinnie at STV.

She said: 'So sad to hear of Kim's passing. He was one of the first people to give me a job on STV with a Hogmanay special years ago along with the late Paul Hineman. He's also responsible for my love of red wine. RIP my dear.'Growing numbers of Melbourne's South Sudanese community are choosing to stay home and not go out in fear of ongoing racial abuse and vilification regarding African gang violence.

Federal Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton sparked outage in January when he said Victorians were too afraid to go out because of African crime gangs.

'People don't see this in NSW, in Queensland, but the reality is people are scared to go out at restaurants of a night time because they're followed home by these gangs, home invasions, and cars are stolen,' Mr Dutton told Sydney radio station 2GB.

Melbourne's South Sudanese community are in fear of ongoing racial abuse and vilification regarding African gang violence, according to community leaders

Sudanese refugees are now too afraid to eat out or go out in Melbourne because of recent comments by Federal Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton

At the time, Victoria's Chief Commissioner of Police Graham Ashton described reports Victoria was not a safe place to live as 'complete and utter garbage.'

Hundreds of Victorians also hit back at Mr Dutton by posting images of themselves dining out on Twitter, using the hashtag #Melbournebitesback.

Now, it's the Sudanese who are too scared to go out, according to Darwin based lawyer and former South Sudanese refugee Maker Mayek.

'We've seen people in Western Australia, in Perth, reporting that they're being targeted at supermarkets, being called names. People being called the N-word, go back to where you came from,' he told ABC Radio.

'If the minister wants someone who is afraid to go out, it is the members of the South Sudanese community now.'

Lawyer and former South Sudanese refugee Maker Mayek acknowledged issues with a small number of African youths behind recent crime incidents in Victoria

Sudanese refugees are now more wary about where they go to and the time of day, according to Mr Mayek.

He believes it will continue to be a hot topic in lead up to the Victorian state election.

'We'll be asking the politicians to really consider whether this is something that they should be keep talking about,' he said.

'Clearly, it puts a community in harm's way.'

Mr Mayek acknowledged issues with a small number of youths behind recent incidents in Victoria.

As a community we do acknowledge there have been issues to do with transition right from the get go, right from the time we arrived in this country," he told the Brisbane Times on Saturday.

Mr Mayek is the man behind the #africangangs campaign to counter "appalling" media coverage and political comments about the South Sudanese community.Killed: Khalid Mehsud, deputy leader of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan was killed in an alleged drone strike

The deputy leader of the Pakistani Taliban has been killed in a suspected U.S. drone strike in the Afghan-Pakistani border region.

Khalid Mehsud, also known by his alias Sajna, was killed in Afghanistan's Paktika province, near the border with Pakistan, last week, Pakistani security officials said.

However, the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, also known as Pakistani Taliban, claim that Mehsud was killed on the Pakistani side of the border, in the North Waziristan region,

'We confirm that deputy head of the TTP Khalid Mehsud died in a drone strike,' said the spokesman, Mohammad Khurasani.

He said Pakistani Taliban chief Mullah Fazlullah appointed a commander called Mufti Noor Wali Wali to replace their dead deputy.

Wali, like his predecessor, would lead militants in South Waziristan, a rugged mountainous region on the Afghan border which has long been home to Pakistani, Afghan and al Qaeda-linked foreign militants.

Militant sources said Wali, known by the nickname Ghar Starga, is a ruthless leader with experience working in Pakistani urban areas including the southern city of Karachi.

He studied in a seminary in Faisalabad city in the heartland province of Punjab and recently wrote a book eulogizing the founder of the Pakistani Taliban, Baitullah Mehsud, who was killed in a 2009 drone attack.

Terrorists: A leader of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Maulvi Khalid Omer, addresses media representatives in 2008

While U.S. and Afghan forces accuse Pakistan of failing to stop Afghan Taliban militants using safe havens on the Pakistani side of the border, Pakistani Taliban militants have been waging a campaign of bombings and other attacks on Pakistan's security forces.

The Pakistani military mounted a major offensive against the militants in 2014, forcing many of them to withdrawn into Afghanistan.

The border region is off limits to journalists and verifying information independently is difficult.

U.S. drone strikes in the border region have picked up since U.S. President Donald Trump took office in January 2017, though they are a long way off their peak in 2010.

Relations between the United States and Pakistan have been strained since Jan. 1 when Trump's denounced Pakistani 'lies and deceit' over its support for the Afghan Taliban and their allies.

Last month, the United States suspended about $2 billion assistance to Pakistan.

Pakistan denies sheltering militants.The third electricity transmission line between Iran and Armenia will soon be commissioned, Iranian Ambassador to Armenia H.E. Seyed Kazem Sadjadi told a press briefing at the YSU

February 12, 2018, 15:05 Third power transmission line between Iran and Armenia to be commissioned soon

STEPANAKERT, FEBRUARY 12, ARTSAKHPRESS:I hope we will witness it in the nearest future, he said.

Under the agreement Armenia will receive gas for the to-be-exported electricity energy.

The Ambassador also mentioned that Iran is also ready to sell gas to Armenia under convenient prices.

We are discussing this issue and I hope that we will soon see progress over this matter. If Armenia gets a bit active in the energy sector, I think very big steps will be taken and it will contribute for job creation in Armenia, he said.

He noted that Armenia and Iran have a very good cooperation in the energy sector.

We plan to form cooperation in the frames of SUAP also, he said.Parades, pints of Guinness, shamrocks and streets filled with green-clothed partygoers is what most envision when they think of St Patricks Day today.

Due to the influence of the Irish diaspora, St Patricks Day has evolved from a day of commemorating the patron saint of Ireland and enjoying a one-day hiatus over Lent, to what some perceive as a commercialised event.

What is St Patricks Day?

St Patricks Day was originally a religious celebration marking the day the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick, died.

Also known as the Feast of St Patrick, the day became an official feast day in the early 17th century and heralded the introduction of Christianity in Ireland.

Irish revelers enjoy the St Patrick's Day parade through Belfast city centre in Northern Ireland

With Lenten restrictions being lifted for the day, the Irish paid tribute to the Saint by eating and drinking alcohol in abundance, and this has led to the tradition of drinking excessively that still lives on today.

It is for this reason that many believe the holiday is becoming commercialised and creates negative stereotypes of Irish people.

Who was St Patrick?

Although there are many myths about the Romano-British Christian missionary and bishop, much of what is known about Saint Patrick comes from a Declaration that Patrick himself wrote.

The Declaration states that Patrick was kidnapped by Irish raiders and was taken as a slave to Gaelic Ireland at the age of sixteen.

He allegedly spent years working as a shepherd and found God during this time. The Declaration then revealed how God had told Patrick to head to the coast where a ship would be waiting to take him back home.

Upon his return to Britain, Patrick became a priest and then went back to Ireland to convert the Irish to Christianity as the renowned legend told.

Patrick is said to have died on March 17, which is when he is celebrated to this day, but over the centuries, stories have evolved and traditions have changed.

A common legend is one where Patrick was forced to drive snakes out of Ireland, but the country has never had any snakes.

When is St Patricks Day 2018?

St. Patricks Day falls on March 17 every year but festivities occasionally continue during the following weekend.

With St Patrick's Day being celebrated on a Saturday in 2018, parades and other events are likely to be all held on this day or across the weekend.

Thanks to the Bank Holiday Act in 1903 introduced by Irish MP James OMara, St Patricks Day became an official holiday in Ireland.

St Patricks Day is also a public holiday in Northern Ireland and the British Overseas Territory of Montserrat. Provincial government employees in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador are also granted a day off.

The day has become a global celebration with the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and New Zealand also joining in the annual revelry and modern celebrations have started to replace Irish traditions.

How is St Patricks Day celebrated?

Until the late 20th century, St Patricks Day was more of a celebration for the Irish diaspora than it was in Ireland.

Today, the public holiday is marked with parades and parties where people wear green clothes and participate in traditional Irish music sessions.

The tradition of putting on a parade to celebrate St Patricks Day started in North America in the 18th century and saw bands, public services and charity organisations get involved.

In the 1990s, the Republic of Ireland campaigned to use St Patricks Day as a catalyst to showcase Ireland in all its glory and the St Patricks Festival was created.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge glows in green at the St Patrick's Day Parade in 2014

2018s St Patricks Festival will be held between March 15 and 19 and aims to offer an accurate image of Ireland as a creative, professional and sophisticated country with wide appeal.

St Patricks Day has truly become a celebration for everything Irish and the week of the event is referred to as Irish language week, where more of an effort to use the language is made and landmarks around the world have been lit up in green.

Despite Lent restrictions being lifted for the day, some Christians may go to church and then go on to drink whiskey, beer or cider in pubs.

Drowning the shamrock or wetting the shamrock is a popular Irish tradition associated with the day. A shamrock would be put into the bottom of a cup and then filled with alcohol before it is drunk as a toast to St Patrick and Ireland.

The shamrock would be swallowed or taken out and tossed over the shoulder for good luck. St Patrick is said to have used a shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish.

Why do people wear green on St Patricks Day?

The green of the shamrock is just one reason why the Irish and others celebrating the day dress in emerald.

Since the 1600s, the Irish have worn green ribbons or shamrocks on St Patricks Day despite the Saint being associated with the colour blue.

People also wear green to make themselves invisible to leprechauns who would pinch anyone they could see was not wearing green.

Wearing a St Patricks Day Cross made of paper and covered with silk or ribbon was also a custom until the early 20th century.

When is the St Patricks Day parade?

While St Patricks Day parades started in North America, Ireland has taken on the tradition and the first parade in the Emerald Isle was held in Waterford in 1903, but the first official state-sponsored event took place in Dublin in 1931.

The Dublin St Patricks Day parade will take place in the city centre, starting at Parnell Square, on Saturday, March 17 from 11am GMT. The theme for the 2018 Dublin parade is Home is Where the Heart is.

In London, alongside a weekend of celebrations expected to take place in Trafalgar Square, the parade will be on March 17 and will see the floats, musicians and dancers walk from Piccadilly.

New Yorks St Patricks Day parade will start at 11am EST at 44th Street and will head up Fifth Avenue past St Patricks Cathedral. It is expected to finish around 5pm at the American Irish Historical Society.

St Patricks traditions

In the UK, the Queen Mother was renowned for presenting bowls full of shamrocks from Ireland to members of the Irish Guards. The Irish Guards continue to wear shamrocks on St Patricks Day after her death.

The Cheltenham Festival, that coincides with St Patricks Day also attracts a lot of visitors and Birmingham is known for putting on the biggest parade in Britain.

Manchester is also known to host a two-week festival ahead of St Patricks Day and the celebration includes an Irish Market.

In 2017, Donald Trump and Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny took part in the annual shamrock ceremony where the US President was presented with a bowl of shamrocks.

The White House have been celebrating St Patricks Day since the 1950s and has strengthened ties between Ireland and the US.Dean Hilpipre, 61, admitted to molesting his seven-year-old granddaughter but he may not have to serve a single day in prison

A 61-year-old man who admitted to molesting his seven-year-old granddaughter may not have to serve a single day in prison for the crime.

Dean Hilpipre of Alden, Iowa, was arrested in August, and charged with two counts of second-degree sex abuse of a child younger than 12. Combined, the two charges carried a penalty of up to 50 years in prison.

His arrest came nine months after the victim, his paternal granddaughter, told her older sister about the abuse, who in turn reported him to a school counselor.

In an interview shortly after, the victim told investigators that her grandfather forced her into inappropriate touching and oral sex. The abuse happened 'over and over' in his bedroom with the door locked or in a bathroom or in the woods.

In December, Hilpipre struck a plea deal with prosecutors, agreeing to plead guilty to a lesser charge of lascivious acts with a child, which carries a maximum of 10 years in prison.

In exchange, prosecutors agreed to drop the two other charges and will recommend that Hilpipre's prison sentence be suspended and that he only serve probation.

The final say, however, will be up to Judge James McGlynn when he officially sentences Hilpipre on February 23.

The fact that Hilpipre may escape prison time has the victim's mother and maternal grandmother outraged.

'What's five years probation? After five years the no contact order's done, then what's he going to do again? Is he gonna pick her up again and take her into the woods again and she may not come out? What justice is that? What safety is that for the remainder of her life?' the victim's mother, 34-year-old Kasey Hilpipre, told WHO-TV.

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The victim's mother, Kasey Hilpipre (pictured), is asking members of the public to attend her former father-in-law's sentencing later this month to protest his plea deal

Kasey's mother, Deborah Yanna, was just as surprised to hear the details of the plea deal in December.

'I was just stunned,' Yanna told the Des Moines Register. 'At his plea-agreement hearing, I said, "Why don't you just throw in a spa day?"'

Dean Hilpipre is her ex-husband Dale's father. She continues to share custody of her four kids with her ex, with her daughter spending the week with her father, living in the same small town without a police department where her abuser continues to live free on bail.

In an interview with the Des Moines Register, the victim cried as she expressed concern for the other little girls in Alden, and said she wanted to see her grandfather behind bars.

Kasey and her mother say the years of abuse have had a profound impact on the victim, who's too scared to leave the front yard.

They are now asking members of the public to attend Hilpipre's sentencing later this month, in hopes of convincing the judge not to accept the plea terms.

'This little girl has a heart and she has a soul and she has a little mind, and this disgusting human debris has broken her,' said Yanna. 'He won the Iowa Lottery. He`s celebrating. He thinks he`s terrific...Where`s her justice? Where`s her celebration? The rest of her life she will always remember...'

Yanna is referring to the fact that Hilpipre won $100,000 playing a Mega Crossword game last month.

Hilpipre told the Iowa Lottery that he plans to use the money to pay for a new home.

Last month, Hilpipre won $100,000 playing an Iowa lottery game. He said he planned to use the money to buy a new house

When he was first interviewed about the allegations in December 2016, Hilpipre denied the claims and blamed the victim's older sister for turning him in.

In another interview a year later, Hilpipre changed his tune slightly, not denying the allegations but also saying he doesn't remember them either.

'If I did it, I deserve everything I get,' he said.

In order to take the plea deal, he had to admit to the crimes in court.

Part of the reason why prosecutors are suggesting a suspended prison sentence is the fact that Hilpipre has no criminal history.

A state-approved psychologist, Tracy Thomas, conducted a psychosexual evaluation of Hilpipre and found that he 'is in the lowest 1.3 percentile of likely recidivism'.

'He received the lowest score possible, a minus 3, which makes him a "very low risk"; his likelihood of future offending is .9 percent over five years,' the documents said.

While child sex crimes offenders are sentenced to prison time in 98 per cent of federal cases, in Iowa, offenders are much more likely to only get probation.

Last fiscal year, 37 people were convicted of lascivious acts with a child in the state, and probation was ordered in 21 cases - or 51 per cent.

Hilpipre has had a pretty stable life, only recently retiring from ILC Resources, an agriculture business, after working there for more than 40 years.

Hilpipre's sentencing takes place February 23 at 10am at the Hardin County Courthouse in Eldora, Iowa.A 24-year-old man from Massachusetts has pleaded not guilty after police say he fatally stabbed his girlfriend 20 times and then knifed both his parents during a family celebration at an Italian restaurant.

Benjamin Walsh was arraigned on Monday in a hospital room, where he was taken for a psychological examination and treatment of a hand injury. Walsh, who appeared tied to his hospital bed, was ordered to be held without bail.

The man is suspected of killing 20-year-old Olivia Bergstrom in the apartment they shared in Needham before attacking members of his family.

Police responded to the Primavera Restaurant in the Boston suburb of Mills at around 7pm on Saturday following reports of a stabbing.

According to investigators, Walsh plunged a knife into his mother's stomach and also wounded his father in his midsection before he was restrained by other relatives at the table.

Domestic drama: Benjamin Walsh (left), 24, is suspected of stabbing to death his girlfriend, 20-year-old Olivia Bergstrom, in Massachusetts

Walsh is arraigned in his Milford Hospital intensive care unit room on Monday

The bedside arraignment was presided by Wrentham District Court Judge Steven Thomas (left) in the presence of Walsh's defense attorney, Randall Power (center)

Walsh and Bergstrom had been dating for two years and moved in together in August

First crime scene: Police performing a welfare check found Bergstrom's body inside the couple's apartment in Needham, Massachusetts (pictured)

Laura Walsh was transported to the hospital in serious condition but is expected to recover.

Her husband Michael Walsh was treated and released.

As they were investigating the incident at the restaurant, police got a call from Benjamin's brother asking to perform a welfare check on the man's girlfriend, Bergstrom.

Officers found the college student dead from 20 stab wounds, 13 of them in the back, reported The Boston Globe. Police said the suspect used the same kitchen knife in both attacks.

Michael Walsh told The Globe his son has struggled with mental health and substance abuse issues, and called the situation a 'nightmare.'

Speaking to Fox 25 Boston, the elder Walsh that it seemed like his son was 'out of his mind' during the attack on his family, which took place as one of the guests at the birthday celebration on Saturday had gotten up to say a few words.

Bergstrom was a graduate of Holliston High School and was studying interior design at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston

Second crime scene: After allegedly killing his girlfriend, Benjamin armed with a kitchen knife headed to Primavera Restaurant in Mills, where his parents were attending a party

Attempted matricide: Benjamin (left) allegedly plunged the knife used in the Bergstrom killing into his mother Laura Walsh's stomach (right)

Parents: Mike Walsh (left) was also stabbed but was later released home; his wife (right) was hospitalized in serious condition

The elder Walsh (left) said his son Ben (right) has been struggling with mental illness and substance abuse; he said he seemed 'out of his mind' during the attack

'I know that when Ben realizes what he did last night he will be devastated,' Mike Walsh added.

Primavera's owner Jerry Gaita, who was among the people who helped restrain Benjamin after the stabbing until police arrived, said it seemed like he came to the restaurant 'on one mission.'

Witnesses reported hearing Walsh scream out: 'I want to kill you! Im going to kill everyone!' according to CBS Boston.

Slaughtered: Bergstrom suffered 20 knife wounds, 13 of them to the back

Mike Walsh did not learn about Olivia Bergstrom's death until he saw a TV news report on the fatal stabbing in Needham on the television news while in the emergency room.

The couple had been dating for two years and moved in together last summer. In a social media post dated August 2017, Bergstrom wrote: 'Here's to signing on our new apartment. Can't wait to spend many more sunsets with you.'

Bergstrom was a graduate of Holliston High School and was studying interior design at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston.

Benjamin described himself on Instagram as a Hardcore kid, writing: we are already dead. Waging a war on egotism through the promotion of existential aesthetics and boundless love.The 'brother' of a dying teenager battled to save his life when he was fatally stabbed to death.

A 19-year-old boy who was attacked at around 3.50pm yesterday was seen lying in a man's arms, thought to be his brother, outside a property in Streatham, south London.

After the attack which happened inside a house in the area the victim reportedly staggered outside and collapsed on the driveway.

A witness who saw the aftermath of the stabbing at the property on Hopton Road near Streatham Common described it as heartbreaking.

A 19-year-old boy who was attacked at around 3.50pm yesterday in Streatham, south London was seen lying in a man's arms before emergency services arrived

After the attack which happened inside a house in the area the victim reportedly staggered outside and collapsed on the driveway

The witness said: 'The victim was just lying there and his brother was on top of him, pleading with him.

'Then the brother took his top off and started trying to stop the bleeding by putting it over the wound.

'He was shouting and screaming - it was just heartbreaking. He was shouting 'No! No!' over and over. My heart goes out to him,' reports the Evening Standard

Paramedics arrived to help the young boy but he was pronounced dead at the scene 40 minutes later.

11 people have died in London this year following fatal stabbings

Paramedics arrived to help the young boy but he was pronounced dead at the scene 40 minutes later

A 23-year-old man arrested at the scene was today being questioned on suspicion of murder.

A spokesman for the Met Police said: 'Officers are in the process of informing next of kin. Formal identification awaits.

'A post-mortem examination will be held in due course.

'A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. He has been taken to a south London police station where he remains in custody.

This fatal stabbing marks the eleventh bloody stabbing in the Capital since New Year's eve

'The Homicide and Major Crime Command has been notified. Enquiries continue.'

This fatal stabbing marks the eleventh bloody stabbing in the Capital since New Year's eve, where four young people were stabbed to death between 11am on December 31 and 2.30am on January 1.

FATAL STABBING MARKS 11TH DEATH IN LONDON SINCE NEW YEARS EVE 31 December: An 18-year-old man was knifed in Larmans Road in Enfield, at 11.30am and died in hospital later that evening. 31 December: Taofeek Lamidi, 20, was repeatedly stabbed during an attack in Memorial Avenue, West Ham, on New Years Eve and a postmortem found the cause of death to be a knife wound to the heart. 31 December: Kyall Parnell, 17, was attacked in front of horrified revellers on his way to a New Years Eve party and died after being chased through traffic in Tulse Hill, south London. 1 January: A 20-year-old man was fatally stabbed in Bartholomew Court, Old Street 3 January:44-year-old woman was found dead after she had her throat slashed 11 January: Harry Uzoka - who had modelled for brands including Mercedes and Zara - was found after being stabbed in Shepherd's Bush 3 February: Kwabena Nelson, 22, was ambushed in Tottenham in the early hours where he was fatally stabbed 3 February: 19 year-old man Hasan Ozkan was stabbed to death in Abbey Road, Barking 5 February: Juan Olmos Saca died in hospital on Sunday after being stabbed in Peckham 9 February: A 55-year-old woman was fatally stabbed in Brays Tower, Primrose Hill 11 February: A 19-year-old man is fatally stabbed in Streatham Advertisement

The unrelated attacks which included two teenage victims happened in West Ham, Tulse Hill, Enfield and Old Street.

The same week a 44-year-old woman was found dead after she had her throat slashed before being left to die in a pool of her own blood in a suburban street, according to horrified neighbours.

Police say the 44-year-old woman, who was wearing a pink coat, was pronounced dead at the scene opposite a nursery school in Ilford, east London, on January 4.

A 43-year-old woman and a 28-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of murder at separate addresses in Kilburn on Sunday morning and remain in police custody.

A talented British model also lost his life earlier this year when he was stabbed during a botched robbery.

Harry Uzoka, who was on the books of Premier Model Management, died from a single stab wound.

Neighbours on Old Oak Road, East Acton, reported a shout of 'hand it over' in the melee which involved several men.

Mr Uzoka, 25, staggered into the street from a housing estate before collapsing.

Last year saw the number of deaths by stabbing in London at its highest for a decade as 80 people including 20 teenagers died following attacks.

Following the New Year stabbings Sadiq Khan said: 'We will work tirelessly in 2018 and beyond to stamp out this scourge.

'I want to be absolutely clear - if you use a knife the full force of the law will be brought down on you. You will be caught and prosecuted.'

Detective Chief Inspector Will Reynolds appealed for anyone with information on the Streatham stabbing to contact the incident room on 0208 721 4005 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.Eight people have been injured after a collision between an all-terrain vehicle and an Amish buggy in Tennessee, authorities say.

An unidentified juvenile driving the four-wheeler crashed into the buggy carrying a teacher and children on Sunday evening in Dunlap, Sequatchie County Sheriff Ronnie Hitchcock told WRCB-TV.

The crash happened just before 6pm CT at the intersection of Coca Cola Road and Fredonia Road, the Sheriff said.

Eight people have been injured after a collision between an all-terrain vehicle and an Amish buggy in Tennessee

The exact conditions of those involved in the crash are unknown, but authorities say none of the injures are life-threatening.

The ages of the people involved in the crash have not been released.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating, and it's unclear if any charges will be filed.

The crash happened just before 6pm at the intersection of Coca Cola Road and Fredonia Road

There is an Amish community of about 1,500 in Ethridge, about a three hour drive from Dunlap, according to Amish America.

They are Swartzentruber, one of the most conservative Amish groups.

The Amish religion allows people to ride in automobiles, but not to own them, so the Amish usually get around in Amish buggies - horse-drawn carriages or wagons.

These vehicles tend to travel at an average speed of five to eight miles per hours, per the Ohio Department of Transportation.

The average speed of ATVs highly depends on their model, but they can go as fast as approximately 70mph.Nationals Leader Barnaby Joyce is facing further scrutiny over his personal behaviour as allegations emerge of him pinching a woman on the bottom while drunk.

The claims have been made by a 'respected' woman, according to the Daily Telegraph - and have been strongly denied by the Deputy Prime Minister's office.

The woman told the publication she approached Mr Joyce following the Rural Women's Agricultural Awards in Canberra in 2011.

The embattled Deputy Prime Minister faces fresh allegations he pinched a woman on the bum

Barnaby Joyce enjoying the bar in Glebe with Vikki Campion, with whom he is expecting his baby, at the Different Drummer bar at Glebe in 2017

'I went over to the bar and he was very, very drunk and nearly falling over,' she said.

'I said "Barnaby, I think you should go home".

'You're very drunk. He leant over and he pinched my bottom.'

The Daily Mail has contacted Mr Joyce's office for comment.

The allegation comes as Mr Joyce prepares to act as Prime Minister next week during Malcolm Turnbull's visit to the United States to meet President Donald Trump.

A shadow has been cast over Mr Joyce's position as Deputy PM and Nationals Leader after revelations he has been in a relationship with a former staffer.

Vikki Campion (left) is pregnant with Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce's (right) fifth child

Mr Joyce is expecting a child with his former staffer Vikki Campion, having split with his wife Natalie after 24 years of marriage.

Mr Turnbull and Nationals have been under pressure regarding six figure salary jobs offered to Ms Campion after she left Mr Joyce's office when their affair allegedly created tensions in the office.

Ministerial code of conduct prevent close relatives and partners being appointed as staffers 'without the Prime Minister's express approval'.

Yet despite Ms Campion expecting a baby with Mr Joyce, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister denied he breached the standards because she 'could not be considered his partner at the time'.

Ms Campion worked for Mr Joyce from May 2016 until May last year. She fell pregnant to the National Party leader a couple of months later.

Vikki Campion, 33, (above) is about seven months pregnant to Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce, 50

Barnaby Joyce, 50, (pictured) is having a child with his former media adviser Vikki Campion, 33

Following her departure from Mr Joyce's office, Ms Campion worked for Resources Minister Matt Canavan, then Nationals MP Damian Drum.

She had previously worked as a senior adviser to New South Wales Police Minister Troy Grant when the Dubbo MP was deputy premier and was an adviser to Racing Minister Paul Toole when the Bathurst MP had the local government portfolio.

Prior to becoming a political staffer Ms Campion worked for eight years as a journalist with The Daily Telegraph, where she was on the news desk for seven months until July 2014.

Barnaby Joyce and Vikki Campion have moved into a townhouse in Armidale, northern NSW

Months before it was reported Ms Campion was pregnant to Mr Joyce she began withdrawing from public view.

On December 7, the Nationals leader used the parliamentary debate on same sex marriage to confirm he was no longer with Natalie, the mother of his four daughters.

'I don't come to this debate pretending to be any saint or anything like that but I do believe in the current definition of marriage, which has stood the test of time,' Mr Joyce said.

Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce with his wife Natalie after he won the seat of New England in 2016

'Half of them fail, I acknowledge that, I'm happy to acknowledge that I am currently separated so that is on the record.'

Mr Joyce moved out of his Tamworth family home in December and later moved into the Armidale townhouse he now shares with Ms Campion.

Mrs Joyce has said she felt 'deceived' by the news that Ms Campion is pregnant with her husband's child and claimed the relationship began when she was a paid staffer.

Meanwhile, Mr Joyce's career is 'over' according to prominent media commentator Nikki Savva.

Barnaby Joyce has moved in with his pregnant lover Vikki Campion, a former media adviser

The Canberra insider, whose husband works for the Prime Minister, told ABC Insiders the 'sun is setting' on the Nationals leader's career.

'I think his career is over, maybe not in the short term, but certainly in the medium term,' she told the program.

'I would not expect to see Barnaby leading the Nationals into the next election.

'I just think the sun is setting on his career, and I can't see how he can survive.'Terrifying footage has emerged showing Vladimir Putin's upgraded anti-missile rockets blasting into the sky during a series of trials.

Video shows the powerful new weapons being launched from the snow-covered Sary-Shagan range in the central Asian nation of Kazakhstan.

Defence chiefs say tests on the defence system, designed to protect the Kremlin and key Moscow installations from enemy strikes, were a success.

Spectacular footage has emerged showing Vladimir Putin's latest anti-missile rockets blasting into the sky during a series of trials

Dramatic video shows rockets taking off from the snow-covered Sary-Shagan range in the central Asian nation of Kazakhstan.

Defence chiefs say tests on the upgraded system, designed to protect the Kremlin and key Moscow installations from enemy strikes, were a success

Andrei Prikhodko, the deputy commander of Russia's Aerospace Forces' air and missile task force, said: 'The missile's tactical and technical characteristics regarding the range, precision and operational lifetime are significantly higher compared to present-day weapons.'

The range of the rocket is about 62 miles, with the altitude of the interception of incoming missiles at up to 19 miles.

Moscow boasts that the latest missile system is entirely made by Russian manufacturers without any 'foreign parts'.

The tests were announced by Red Star newspaper which is affiliated to the Russian Defence Ministry.

It did not name the upgraded missile.

The range of the rocket is about 62 miles, with the altitude of the interception of incoming missiles at up to 19 miles

Moscow boasts that the latest missile system is entirely made by Russian manufacturers without any 'foreign parts'

The tests were announced by a newspaper affiliated to the Russian Defence Ministry

Putin's latest show of military might comes just weeks after the the head of the British Army warned that the UK must take action now so that the Armed Forces can tackle the threat from Russia

Putin's latest show of military might comes just weeks after the the head of the British Army warned that the UK must take action now so that the Armed Forces can tackle the threat from Russia.

General Sir Nick Carter said Britain needed to 'keep up' with Vladimir Putin's growing military strength or see our ability to take action 'massively constrained'.

In January, RAF jets were scrambled to see off Russian bombers heading for UK airspace, while the number of Russian submarines close to British waters is at its highest since the Cold War.A leading Chicago businessman has died in snowmobiling accident, just three years after his sister died while horseriding.

Justin Heyman, 50, a father-of-three and partner in private equity firm Acuity Capital Partners, was on a guided snowmobile trip in Wyoming when he became separated from the group and crashed into a ravine near Togwotee Pass on Friday, Chicago Tribune reports.

Teton County Search and Rescue was dispatched at just after noon but a storm and whiteout conditions meant that the helicopter couldn't reach the pass.

A guide from the snowmobile Scenic Safaris trip began searching for Heyman, and another man who ran into the gorge at lower speed.

Eventually, they spotted the missing snowmobilers' tracks and discovered Heyman, whose helmet was cracked, dead at the scene. It appears he died instantly in the 'high impact crash'. The other snowmobiler survived with a knee injury and was rushed to hospital.

Justin Heyman, 50, a partner in private equity firm Acuity Capital Partners, has died in a snowmobile crash

The adventurous father-of-three (pictured horse riding with his girlfriend Cindy Wanger Smith) was on a guided snowmobile trip in Wyoming when he became separated from the group

Heyman crashed into a ravine near Togwotee Pass (pictured) in Wyoming

Heyman's death is the second tragedy to befall his family in recent years after his sister Anne, a New York philanthropist who founded a village in Rwanda for orphans, was killed in a horseback riding accident in 2014. Since her death, Justin had also dedicated himself to fundraising for the village.

Friends and family have paid tribute to Heyman as adventurous and a risk taker, but also incredibly devoted to his family.

'He was an unbelievable father and an unbelievable friend,' said his sister Lauren Heyman, of Maryland. 'He enjoyed life. At his core, he was a good and honest person.'

The businessman was also deeply involved with the local community and an active member of Chicago's Young Presidents Organization. He was traveling with four members from the group when he was killed.

He was also the very proud father of three boys, pictured with him, aged 21, 18 and 15,

Heyman, who was born in South Africa, grew up on the East Coast and moved to Chicago in the early 1990s with his boys

Heyman, pictured his girlfriend, fitness instructor Cindy Wanger Smith, was very adventurous according to his friends

Heyman, who got his bachelor's in economics from University of Pennsylvania, and a masters in management from Northwestern University, was into his adventure sports and loved snowmobiles (pictured in 2015)

'A lot of people are shocked, and profoundly saddened,' a fellow partner at Acuity, G.R. Kearney, said. 'He was a risk taker in his professional life who lived life very much on his own terms, and was ceaselessly devoted to his three boys and was a truly amazing father.'

Heyman, who was born in South Africa, grew up on the East Coast and moved to Chicago in the early 1990s with his three boys, now 21, 18 and 15.

He was separated from their mother but in a relationship with fitness instructor Cindy Wanger Smith.

Heyman got his bachelor's in economics from University of Pennsylvania, and a masters in management from Northwestern University, according to his Facebook page.

Heyman's death is the second tragedy to befall his family in recent years after his sister Anne (pictured), a New York philanthropist, was killed in a horseback riding accident in 2014

Since his sister's death, Justin had also dedicated himself to fundraising for the village (pictured with one of the children at the village in Rwanda)

The Rwandan village that Heyman dedicated himself to after his sister's death have since paid tribute to the philanthropist.

'Justin was known in the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village family for his warmth, sincerity, passion, unconditional love, and dedication to the kids of the Village in Anne's memory.

'Our love and prayers are with his family. May his memory be a blessing,' they wrote.

Other friends also left touching tributes.

Gail Weiner Milano wrote: 'This is heartbreaking news. I loved seeing pictures of his adventures- he definitely 'lived life to the fullest'. I could also see in his face and in his smile the love he had for his girlfriend, his boys, his family, and friends. He will be missed.'

Janine Mortimer added: 'He was honestly enjoying his life. Such a wonderfil genuine person. I pray for his family and i cant stop crying.'Lieutenant Tim Lancaster was shocked when a McDonald's clerk refused to serve him because of his uniform on Friday

A Florida cop was denied service at Palm Bay McDonald's simply because he was a police officer.

Lieutenant Tim Lancaster went to the fast-food chain for lunch on Friday. After the clerk preparing his meal saw him in uniform she looked at him with disgust and gave his order to another employee.

The officer, who has worked on the force for 23 years, took to Facebook to share the experience that left him 'embarrassed and upset'.

He vowed to never eat at McDonald's again.

Lancaster visited the McDonald's restaurant drive-thru on the corner of Palm Bay road and Babcock Street while in uniform but in an unmarked car.

'Completely shocked and disappointed. I have been working in law enforcement for over 20 years and never thought I would personally experience what just occurred at the drive thru at the McDonald's at Palm Bay Road and Babcock Street,' he wrote in a statement on Facebook.

'I ordered my lunch, paid at the first window and moved up to the second window to pick up lunch,' he said.

Lancaster joined the Palm Bay Police Force in 1993 and was in uniform at the time of incident

He took to Facebook to share his harrowing experience, vowing to never eat McDonald's again

At the second window a female employee bringing his drink saw Lancaster in uniform and stopped in her tracks.

'When I got to the window, the clerk looked at me with my drink in hand and stopped. For the record, I am in full uniform and an unmarked car. She handed my drink to another clerk and walked away in disgust,' he said.

When he asked what was wrong, he was shocked to hear that the clerk refused to service him because of his profession.

'I asked the other clerk what was wrong, she stayed that the other clerk refuses to serve cops. I was embarrassed and upset (sic),' he said.

'After a while, I called the store and spoke to Omar, he identified himself as the general manager, and said he would address it,' he added.

The jaded Lancaster left the restaurant and shared the post online.

'I will never eat at McDonald's again. Never been treated like that before. Please share,' he said.

His post has been shared more than 6,000 times and has more than 5,300 reactions.

This is the Palm Bay McDonald's location where Lancaster ordered his lunch at the drive-thru

Off duty: Lancaster (front, left) pictured above with other officers in front of a military helicopter

Lancaster, pictured with wife and son, said he was 'embarrassed and upset' by his treatment by the clerk at the fast-food chain

The general manager of the McDonalds, Omar Perez, did not confirm the status of the clerk.

McDonald's corporate office said: 'We have respect for all first responders and are investigating. The behavior described in this Facebook post is unacceptable and not tolerated in our restaurants.'

The same location has hosted a 'Coffee With a Cop' outreach program with the Palm Bay police department in the past.

After Lancaster shared his post online, sympathizers have taken to the comments to support Lancaster, however the post also ignited a Blue Lives Matter debate in the comments.

'Retired cop of thirty years - I absolutely stopped going to restaurants because this or much worse can happen to your food. Bring your own lunch and be safe!' user Ellen Minten Wanek wrote.

'Anybody wanna know her side of it? Maybe her husbands a cop and he beats her. Since he's a cop maybe his buddies look the other way....' cause he has a stressful job. 2 sides to every incident,' Rhonda Crider said.

'The clerk at McDonald's is judging you based on a few bad cops. That's wrong!! Likewise, it's wrong of you to malign all McD's because of one rude clerk,' Christine Black-Kline said.Advertisement

Fascinating action shots of the British Navy in the midst of battle during the World War Two have been released this week, as part of a new book written by a former seafarer.

Taken from Martin Watts's own personal archives, the vintage shots show a portrait of the author's great-uncle Sergeant Albert 'Nobby' Elliot, who took part in Operation Torch in North Africa, while another shows a gun crew in action.

Further photographs show the warship HMS Hood, which was sunk by the Bismarck in May 1941, while a different shot shows the ship's mighty guns.

A Royal Marine band is also shown on board HMS Glory, while another picture shows the surrender of 139,000 Japanese aboard the same boat.

Fascinating action shots of the British Navy in the midst of battle during World War Two have been released this week. Pictured is HMS Hood, a battlecruiser which was launched in 1918 and sunk by the Bismarck in May 1941 when she was struck by several German shells during the Battle of the Denmark Strait and sank within three minutes when the ship broke in two

The mighty guns of HMS Hood are seen in this image. Like all battlecruisers, the Hood was well armed but too lightly armoured and so vulnerable to high, plunging shots, as the Admiralty later found out to their cost. All but three of her 1,418 crew went down with HMS Hood, becoming the Royal Navy's heaviest loss of life in a single ship, and the largest British warship which has ever been lost

The battleship HMS Howe became the flagship of Admiral Sir Bruce Fraser, the newly appointed Commander-in-Chief of the British Pacific Fleet, for the final stages of the war against Japan. She was the last of her class of battleships, launched in 1940, and spent the first part of her service covering the Arctic convoys to Russia before joining the Eastern Fleet in 1944 to aid the war effort in the Pacific Ocean

A ceremony aboard HMS Glory marks the formal surrender of 139,000 Japanese troops on the islands of New Britain, New Ireland, the Solomon Islands and New Guinea on September 6, 1945, a month after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States, which had prompted Japan's Emperor to announce the country's surrender. The legal document was signed on board the ship

A Royal Marines band with drums is pictured aboard the aircraft carrier HMS Glory. The Colossus-class ship was launched in 1943 and served in the Pacific in the last few months of the war, culminating in the Japanese surrender in 1945. She helped to return Japanese prisoners of war home before going on to a further deployment in the Korean War, which broke out just five years later

An aerial view of HMS King George V, a battleship which was launched in 1939 and which operated throughout World War Two. In 1941 she was sent to hunt the German battleship Bismarck, eventually locating the enemy vessel off the French coast, and helping to sink the German ship with the help of Royal Navy cruisers. The ship also witnessed Japanese surrender ceremonies as it proceeded to Tokyo Bay

The vintage pictures are compiled into a book titled The Royal Marines and the War at Sea by naval historian and former seafarer, Martin Watts, 64. It is published by Amberley Publishing.

'As a former seafarer, it has taken me far too long to write about the war at sea, and it was very rewarding writing about a relative with whom I've spent much time when studying in Plymouth,' Martin said.

'The best part was writing about the sea and the tactical and technical analysis of the warships involved.'

Albert Elliott, also known as 'Nobby', took part in the British-US invasion of French North Africa known as Operation Torch, part of the North African Campaign.

Martin explains in the book that the overall strategy behind the concept of the invasion was to 'drive all Axis forces out of North Africa, as a precursor to an invasion of Sicily and then Italy'.

'This would open up what has been termed 'the soft underbelly of Europe', and thereby avoid, or at least delay, the cross-Channel invasion so dreaded by Churchill and his military advisers,' he said.

'Operation Torch saw the emergence of General Eisenhower as Supreme Commander, and the establishment of an Anglo-American command system that lasted through to victory in Europe.

Pictured is Sergeant Albert Elliott, the great-uncle of author Martin Watts. Also known as Nobby, he took part in the British-US invasion of French North Africa known as Operation Torch, a deployment intended to drive all Axis forces out of North Africa, as a precursor to an invasion of Sicily and then Italy. Some 600 vessels sailed from ports in Britain and the United States in what was then the largest invasion fleet in history

British maritime trade is pictured under the protection of the Royal Navy, which guarded it from German U-boats, aerial attack and bombardments, in the North Sea, the Atlantic Ocean and even further afield

A stern view of Commodore Henry Harwood's flagship HMS Ajax, a wartime cruiser, seen at the Battle of the River Plate in the South Atlantic Ocean in December 1939, the first Atlantic confrontation of World War II. HMS Ajax joined forces with Achilles, a light cruiser from the New Zealand Navy to take on the German cruiser Graf Spree which had been attacking merchant shipping

The invasion, which began on November 8, ended just two days later on November 10, 1942. The allies paid a heavy price, though, with 574 British soldiers, 526 American soldiers and over 1,346 French being killed in the battle.

'From a naval point of view, Torch required the deployment of what was then the largest invasion fleet in history, with some 600 vessels sailing from ports in Britain and the United States,' Martin said.

'They were tasked with landing 65,000 soldiers at three points  Casablanca, on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, and Oran and Algiers, on the Mediterranean coast of Algeria.

'Ideally the main objective would have been Tunis, thus placing the western arm of the Allied pincer very much closer to Rommel's supply base at Tripoli, but air cover from nearby Luftwaffe airfields in Sardinia and Sicily ruled this out.'

Royal Marines who served on HMS Glory are pictured marching in a victory parade in Sydney, Australia, with a large crowd gathering to see the parade near St James railway station (right of picture). The ship had sailed to Australia after taking the Japanese surrender in the Pacific, before returning to Britain in 1947 and going on to be deployed in the Korean War

Ice was a perpetual problem for ships on the Russian convoys. The vintage pictures are compiled into a book titled The Royal Marines and the War at Sea. The Arctic convoys, described by Churchill as the 'worst journey in the world', delivered vital supplies to the Soviet Union as it resisted Hitler's invasion, a naval effort which cost the lives of around 3,000 sailors, with over 100 civilian and military ships lost

Royal Marines are seen training for gunnery, one of their principal wartime duties. This picture was taken at a shore establishment. Five Royal Marine Commandos were involved in the Normandy landings with 46 (RM) Commando landing the day after the initial assaults, helping their Army colleagues and fellow invaders from the United States to make progress across the continentDoctors and hospital staff are being attacked so regularly at work they are now getting self-defense lessons from the police.

It follows the disturbing incident a doctor was grabbed from behind and choked by a patient at a hospital in Perth.

Mohamed Arab was sentenced in court this week following the attack last November at the Royal Perth Hospital.

Mohamed Arab approaches the doctor from behind and catches him unawares before grabbing him in a chokehold

But city health chiefs have admitted attacks like it have become so common that doctors and nurses have come to expect being assaulted at work.

Arab was given a suspended prison sentence in the hearing before magistrates despite begging for the maximum sentence - a seven year prison term.

The 21-year-old, who has psychological problems according to his lawyer, was a regular visitor at the city hospital emergency room.

Shocking CCTV footage was played to the court showing the moment Arab grabbed the doctor from behind in an unprovoked attack and puts him in a strong chokehold.

His grip around the doctor's throat was so strong that it partially crushed the doctor's windpipe and affected the his voice, Perth Now reported.

The tape then goes on to show a host of doctors, nurses and security staff rush to free the doctor - who is now back at work - from Arab's clutches.

The court heard he later said he felt he was getting the treat he needed but just 'wanted some attention'.

Staff are quickly on hand to try and wrestle 21-year-old Arab off the doctor who suffered a crushed windpipe

East Metropolitan Health Service chief executive Liz McLeod said: 'I was absolutely appalled, bewildered and distressed that we can have incidents like that in our hospital against our staff, who come to work to care for the sick and the vulnerable.

'It was beyond my comprehension,' she told Perth Now.

'Any amount of training in this incident would not have made any difference, by the nature of the unprovoked and sudden attack from behind.

'It is now becoming so common that is what our staff are expecting to happen when they come into work every day.

Security staff and more doctors and nursing staff arrive to restrain Mohamed Arab, who was given a suspended sentence

'We are concerned as employers that we can't provide a safe working environment for our staff.

'Our staff should be able to come to work in a hospital and feel they are safe  as should patients and visitors.'

Arab was given an eight-month prison sentence suspended for 16 months and told to agree to medical treatment necessary for him.

His lawyer Hugh Kospen told magistrates his client had shown genuine remorse for the assault - for which he had a previous conviction for.The British millionaire who died in a seaplane crash in Sydney was killed instantly while his fiancee and their children drowned or died from head injuries, a coroner has revealed.

Richard Cousins, 58, died along with Emma Bowden, 48, when their sight-seeing plane veered out of control and plunged into a river in New South Wales.

Ms Bowden's daughter Heather, 11, and Mr Cousins' sons, William, 25, and Edward, 23, were also killed in the New Year's Eve crash along with Canadian pilot Gareth Morgan, 44.

A coroner opened the inquest into the death of the five Britons today and revealed the extent of their injuries for the first time.

Richard Cousins (left) died along with Emma Bowden (right) when their sight-seeing plane veered out of control and plunged into a river in New South Wales

Peter Bedford, senior coroner for Berkshire, said Heather (left) died due to the combined effects of head injuries and drowning, while her mother (right) died from drowning

William (left) died from head and facial injuries, while his younger brother Edward (right) died from drowning

Mr Cousins, of Tooting, west London, died from multiple blunt force injuries while his fiancee died from the combined effects of head injuries and drowning.

Meanwhile William died from head and facial injuries, while his younger brother Edward's death was consistent with drowning.

Peter Bedford, senior coroner for Berkshire, said Heather died due to the combined effects of head injuries and drowning.

Mr Cousins and his fiancee Emma were visiting Australia with family as part of a 'new life together'.

That year he had shocked his company by announcing his retirement as from his 5.6million job as boss of a catering giant to spend quality time with his new fiancee.

Mr Cousins had just lost his wife to cancer when he found love again with Emma in a chance meeting.

It was reported locally at the time that the seaplane (shown) involved had previously crashed in 1996 but was repaired afterwards 'to a standard better than new'

Mr Cousins and his fiancee Emma (shown with her daughter) were visiting Australia with family as part of a 'new life together'

At a pub in Twickenham, southwest London, with old friends, Mr Cousins saw the OK! Magazine arts editor sitting at the next table and was smitten.

The couple's wedding had been planned for July this year with an engagement party due for March.

It was reported locally at the time that the seaplane involved had previously crashed in 1996 but was repaired afterwards 'to a standard better than new'.

Canadian pilot Gareth Morgan (pictured) was also killed in the New Year's Day crash

The bodies were identified using personal documents such as passports to confirm the deceased's identities when they first arrived back in the Berkshire coroner's jurisdiction.

The inquest was opened in Berkshire because the bodies were repatriated to Reading, where Richard Cousins' brother lives.

The coroner suspended the inquests until the full reports into what caused the crash were published in Australia.

Mr Bedford said: 'The New South Wales Coroner is currently leading an investigation into the deaths of those concerned involving many local authorities.

'This will be based on air traffic investigations led by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau and other specially trained people.

'These people have specific expertise as well as, importantly, having access to the scene.

'I propose suspending the inquest pending the nature of the reports from the New South Wales Coroner and then I will decide whether it is appropriate to carry out a formal inquest here in Berkshire.'Three people have weighed in on a Winnebago that suddenly appeared on a residential street in one of Sydney's most affluent suburbs.

Images of the caravan parked on a street in Sydney harbour side suburb Mosman were posted on Twitter.

'This is peak Mosman,' Dannielle Miller wrote.

Three people have weighed on Winnebago that suddenly appeared on a residential street in one of Sydney's most affluent suburbs

The first note reads: 'ATTENTION. Could you please move this piece of s*** off our road. It's an embarrassment to residents'

'A friend spotted this series of three notes left on the windscreen of a Winnebago on the weekend.'

The first note reads: 'ATTENTION. Could you please move this piece of s*** off our road. It's an embarrassment to residents.'

It seems another local resident noticed the rude note and weighed in themselves, with a more positive tone.

'This vehicle may not be pretty, but what is certainly ugly are the comments attached to it,' the letter reads.

'As a resident of this street for the last 20 years I have driven, walked and ridden past this vehicle over the past little while with a small smile on my face, wondering what interesting human tale lies behind its sojourn here.'

And residents soon found out after the owner of the Winnebago wrote their own note in an attempt to get some form of street justice.

It seems another local resident noticed the rude not and weighed in themselves, with a more positive tone

'We are parked temporarily while we pack and ready ourselves for a trip around Australia this year,' the owners wrote.

They explained the vehicle had been vandalised.

'If you have a problem with our vehicle parked on our road please come and chat to us rather than vandalise our property.

'Ironically we were going to leave on our trip this morning, however we have to put our trip back a few days so we could attend the scattering of ashes for a close friend,' they further explained.

'Perhaps it may take another day so we can clean off the mess you made.'Advertisement

Former President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama were joined by a who's who of their administration  and some Hollywood types too  for the official unveiling of their portraits at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery.

'That's pretty sharp,' the ex-president said as he and artist Kehinde Wiley pulled the cloth off Obama's portrait, which showed the Democrat in a tie-less get-up, seated, surrounded by a floral motif.

Michelle Obama's portrait, created by Amy Sherald, had been unveiled first, and the former president quickly applauded the artist for capturing the 'hotness of the woman that I love.'

Former US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama stand beside their portraits after their unveiling at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC, on Monday

Obama admires his portrait, created by New York City-based artist Kehinde Wiley, at its unveiling on Monday

First lady Michelle Obama (left) and President Obama (right) wait to see their portraits unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery Monday morning

President Obama (right) and artist Kehinde Wiley (left) pull the cloth off the president's official portrait Monday at the National Portrait Gallery

Michelle Obama (left) pulls the cloth off her portrait at its official unveiling at the National Portrait Gallery alongside the artist, Amy Sherald (right)

Michelle Obama (left) claps at the finished product, saying of artist Amy Sherald (right) that they had a 'sister-girl' type connection

Upon taking the podium, former first lady Michelle Obama apologized to the two artists, noting how they had to come into the Oval Office to interview with the president and herself in order to get picked for the job

Both of the Obamas talked about the intimate process of getting their portrait painted, including the fact that each artist had to interview with the then-president and first lady in the Oval Office.

'I'm sorry, I'm so sorry,' the former FLOTUS told the two artists, saying her first order of business was to apologize to them for making them go through those grillings.

The Obamas noted how neither had sat for a portrait before, with the ex-president calling attention to his high school yearbook photo saying it was 'no great shakes.'

'I am a little overwhelmed to say the least,' the former first lady confessed upon seeing the work, which depicted the style icon wearing a patterned Milly dress, specifically designed for the sitting.

Michelle Obama said she was drawn to Sherald immediately, calling the bespectacled portraitist 'cute' and 'fly.'

The former first lady particularly liked that Sherald, who was a contender for either portrait, dared to say in front of the president, 'Mrs. Obama, I'm really hoping that you can I can work together.'

'And after that, she and I started talking and Barack kind of faded into the woodwork,' Michelle Obama said, noting she had 'that kind of sister-girl connection' with Sherald.

Obama greets artist Kehinde Wiley during the unveiling of his portrait at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in Washington

Los Angeles-native Kehinde Wiley (left) is a New York City-based artist known for his contemporary portraits. His last work displayed at the Portrait Gallery were of hip-hop artists

Obama joked that he asked Wiley to darken his hair - which had grown gray during his presidency - for the portrait

Obama pretends to take a selfie as he looks at his portrait by artist Kehinde Wiley after its unveiling Monday at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in the Chinatown neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

Obama said that Wiley wanted to make the portrait more grandiose than having the former POTUS simply sit in a chair. Wiley later said that the former president was lying

'Like a sketch by a sixth grader': Outcry that Michelle Obama's portrait looks nothing like her - while Barack's is compared to to Beyonce's birth announcement While President Obama's striking portrait by Kehinde Wiley garnered audible gasps of awe from the audience, Michelle's portrait was not as warmly welcomed. Many online said that Amy Sherald's portrait didn't even look like Michelle. Many were unimpressed when Mrs Obama's portrait was unveiled on Monday John Legend's wife Chrissy Teigen was among the many to tweet about Mrs Obama's portrait Some said Mrs Obama's portrait looked like a child's art project Baltimore artist Amy Sherald, right, was commissioned to do the portrait for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery President Obama's portrait, by Kehinde Wiley, was also unveiled on Monday Many on social media said that Mrs Obama's portrait didn't look like the former first lady John Legend's wife Chrissy Teigen was among the many to tweet about Mrs Obama's portrait 'Amy Sherald should have met Michelle Obama before making that portrait,' one user wrote. Others went so far as to criticize the artist's skill, comparing the work to a kid's art project. 'Okay legit that Michelle Obama portrait looks like a sketch by a sixth grader,' Twitter user Ashley Rae wrote. The Obamas were seeing the portraits for the first time on Monday, so the crowd at the Smithsonian gallery got to see their reactions in real time. Some pointed out that President Obama's portrait looked like Beyonce's birth announcement. But others said it was clear that Beyonce was actually influenced by Wiley, the artist who made Obama's portrait One Twitter user said it looked like Mr Obama was more pleased with his own portrait, than with his wife's. Some pointed out that President Obama's portrait looked like Beyonce's birth announcement. But others said it was clear that Beyonce was actually influenced by Wiley, the artist who made Obama's portrait One Tweet pointed to the alleged time former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer hid in the bushes to stay away from the media 'You can actually see Barack Obama do a "yikes, that's awful" double take looking at Michelle Obama's portrait, then back at his cool one,' Twitter user Tim Young wrote. For the record, President Obama complimented Sherald's work during the ceremony, saying it captured his wife's 'hotness' among other things. While President Obama's portrait was more well received, some did point out that his looked an awful lot like Beyonce's birth announcement. Others pointed out that it was likely the other way around, since several art experts pointed to Wiley as an inspiration when Beyonce's pictures were released last year. Wiley is currently one of the most influential black painters, for the way he paints African-Americans in the Old Masters style - inserting them into an historical art period that they were largely excluded from due to slavery. Some said Mrs Obama's portrait looked like a child's art project Advertisement

The ex-president joked that he had bonded with Wiley too, but 'maybe not in the same way as this whole-sister girl thing.'

'We shook hands,' Obama said with a straight face.

The ex-president also said that he had asked Wiley to change certain things about his appearance, including making his hair  which was jet black when he entered the White House  less grey, and shrinking his trademark big ears.

Obama also said that Wiley wanted to make the portrait more grandiose than having the former POTUS simply sit in a chair.

'I had to explain that I have enough political problems,' Obama said, suggesting that the artist wanted to mount him on a horse, among other ideas. 'Gotta bring it down just a touch.'

When it was Wiley's turn to speak he called the star of his painting out.

Former US First Lady Michelle Obama unveils her portrait at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC, on Tuesday

Sherald is a painter based in Baltimore, Maryland, whose known for her social justice themes and takes on political, cultural and social identities

Michelle Obama said she was drawn to Sherald immediately, calling the bespectacled portraitist 'cute' and 'fly'

Obama stopped to admire the portrait of Michelle as he stood on stage for his own portrait's unveiling

Amy Sherald: The social justice-focused artist chosen to paint Michelle Obama's National Gallery portrait For Michelle Obama's portrait, the National Portrait Gallery commissioned Baltimore-based artist Amy Sherald. The Columbus, Georgia, native, 44, was chosen by Michelle Obama to create the portrait of the former First Lady. Sherald is known for the social justice themes in her paintings, as well as her takes on political, cultural and social identities. Baltimore-based artist Amy Sherald (right) was chosen to create the portrait of former first lady Michelle Obama She often paints black skin tones in shades of gray to remove 'color' from her subjects, according to CNN. She told the Ledger-Enquirer that her paintings look at every day people from new perspectives. 'I'm painting the paintings that I want to see in museums,' she said. 'And I'm hopefully presenting them in a way that's universal enough that they become representative of something different than just a black body on a canvas.' She has said that her work takes inspiration from photographs of African Americans in the 1800s and early 1900s. The Georgia native graduated from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2004. She was the first-prize winner of the Portrait Gallery's 2016 Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition. Her winning piece, Miss Everything (Unsuppressed Deliverance), was hung at the Smithsonian until January 2017. Sherald is known for the social justice themes in her paintings, as well as her takes on political, cultural and social identities Sherald is the first African-American woman to create an official First Lady portrait for the National Portrait Gallery. Michelle and Barack Obama interviewed Sherald in the Oval Office when deciding who would paint the first lady's portrait. 'I was intrigued before she walked into the room,' Michelle Obama said, adding that the pair had ''that kind of sister-girl connection'. She said: 'I had seen the work and was blown away by the boldness of her colors and the uniqueness of her subject matter. And then she walked in, and she was fly and poised. She had this lightness and freshness of personality. 'I'm also thinking of girls of color who in the years ahead will come to this place and who will see an image of someone who looks like them hanging on the wall of this great American institution. 'I know the kind of impact that will have on their lives, because I was one of those girls.' Advertisement

'So how do you explain that a lot of that is simply not true?' Wiley mused. 'What is true is that this is an insane situation,' said the artist, whose last works hung in the National Gallery were of hip-hop artists.

Wiley's works are often easily identifiable by their wild backgrounds, with the flowers behind Obama symbolizing places where he has roots: chrysanthemums for Chicago, jasmine for Hawaii and African blue lilies for Kenya for his dad.

Online the portraits were greeted with mixed reaction with the president's portrait being compared to Beyonce's pregnancy and birth announcements  as the singer had similarly posed in front of a floral backdrop  while many commented that Michelle Obama's muted portrait looked nothing like her.

The reception in the room was much better, both to the art and to President Trump's predecessor.

Obama told the audience, 'We miss you guys', as the crowd replied almost in unison that they missed the former First Family too.

Seated several rows away were actor Tom Hanks and Director Steven Spielberg, one of the paintings' donors; also, CBS' Gayle King, also known as Oprah Winfrey's best friend.

'Special shout-out to my man Joe Biden,' the ex-president said, looking down on his former veep.

Biden's wife Jill, Michelle Obama noted, wasn't there yet because she got stuck in traffic.

'And an even more special shout-out to my mother-in-law,' Obama also said to Michelle's mother, Marian Robinson, who he applauded for providing his wife with her 'hotness genes.'

Obama told the audience, 'We miss you guys', as the crowd replied almost in unison that they missed the former First Family too

While speaking to the crowd, Obama gave a shoutout to Michelle's mother, Marian Robinson, who he applauded for providing his wife with her 'hotness genes.'

Obama sits with former first lady Michelle Obama applaud during the unveiling of their portraits on Monday

The former First Couple were joined by former Vice President Joe Biden and a number of celebrities at the portrait unveiling

Vice President Joe Biden is seen walking into the event. First lady Michelle Obama volunteered the info that Biden's wife Jill wasn't there because she was stuck in traffic

The attendees included actor Tom Hanks (center) who was captured speaking to artists Amy Sherald (left) and Kehinde Wiley (right)

Hanks sat close to director Steven Spielberg at the portrait unveiling on Monday morning in Washington, DC

Adding some Hollywood glamour to the crowd, actor Tom Hanks speaks to guests as he awaits the arrival of former President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama

Actress Kate Capshaw (left) and her husband, director Steven Spielberg (right) are captured arriving at the ceremony Monday to unveil President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama's official portraits at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.

A number of members of the Obama alumni association were on hand Monday including (from left) former Press Secretary Jay Carney, former Press Secretary Josh Earnest and Obama's longtime top political adviser David Axelrod

Obama's portraitist Kehinde Wiley: The first African-American artist to paint an official presidential portrait for the National Portrait Gallery Former president Barack Obama's portrait was painted by Kehinde Wiley - an artist best known for his vibrant, large-scale paintings of African-Americans. His paintings often blur boundaries between traditional and contemporary, revealing a juxtaposition between urban culture with wallpaper-like backgrounds. The Brooklyn-based artist was one of more than 20 considered to paint the National Gallery portrait of Obama. After being named as the artist, he became the first African-American to execute an official portrait of a president for the National Portrait Gallery. Kehinde Wiley is the first African-American to execute an official portrait of a president for the National Portrait Gallery The 41-year-old said he took more than 1,000 photos of Obama to prepare for the portrait, according to CNN. Wiley, who is a Los Angeles native, previously had a series of works featuring hip-hop artists displayed in the National Gallery. The artist was born to a Nigerian father and an African-American mother in 1977. While he didn't grow up with his father, Wiley traveled to meet him in Nigeria when he was 20 years old. He earned his BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute in 1999 before receiving an MFA from the Yale University School of Art in 2001. Wiley's works 'quote historical sources and position young black men within the field of power', according to his website. His paintings are often based on photographs of young men he sees on the streets of Harlem and South Central Los Angeles, and he has since expanded his inspiration to a 'world stage'. He also takes paintings of saints and heroes of Old Masters and replaces the subjects with black men and women. 'What I choose to do is to take people who happen to look like me - black and brown people all over the world, increasingly - and to allow them to occupy that field of power,' Wiley told CNN. Famous pieces include Napolean Leading the Army Over the Alps (2005) and Alios Itzhak (2011). Advertisement

Robinson was joined by her son, the first lady's brother, Craig, and a number of familiar faces from the previous administration.

There was former White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough, Obama's old 'body man' Reggie Love and all three of 44's press secretaries: Robert Gibbs, Jay Carney and Josh Earnest.

Former White House chef Sam Kass was on hand with his wife, journalist Alex Wagner, and their baby, while Gibbs spent the morning alongside his pal, David Axelrod, one of the ex-president's longest political advisers.

Another longtime ear to the president, Valerie Jarrett, was in the audience too.

Besides Biden, who's not taking his name out of contention for a 2020 presidential run, other potential Democratic hopefuls were on hand too, including Sen. Amy Klobuchar and former Attorney General Eric Holder.

Holder gave DailyMail.com a succinct 'not really' when asked if he wanted to discuss his future, presidential plans.

It's been a decade since new presidential and first lady portraits had been commissioned with President George W. Bush's (left) and first lady Laura Bush's (right) paintings unveiled in 2008

President George W. Bush and first lady Laura Bush stand between their portraits on December 19, 2008, as the paintings were unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery at an event similar to the one featuring the Obamas today

Bill and Hillary Clinton stand alongside their portraits that were unveiled in 2006, five years after the Democratic commander-in-chief left office and while Hillary Clinton was serving in the U.S. Senate

Hillary Clinton's portrait, crafted by artist Ginny Stanford, made its debut on April 25, 2006, while she was still serving in the U.S. Senate. She served as first lady from 1993 until 2001

The National Portrait Gallery began commissioning portraits of presidents starting with George H.W. Bush in 1994 and first ladies starting in 2006, with a portrait of former first lady Hillary Clinton.

It's been a decade since new paintings have been added to the collection, as both President George W. Bush and first lady Laura Bush's portraits were completed in 2008.

The public can begin viewing the Obamas' portraits starting tomorrow, with President Obama's portrait heading to the 'America's President's exhibition.'

Michelle Obama's portrait will live, for now, in the recent acquisitions corridor of the museum, located in the Chinatown neighborhood of Washington, D.C.Australia's High Commissioner Alexander Downer said Britain should pull out of the EU customs union to maximise global trade

Britain must leave EU's customs union to win trade deals with powerhouse economies like Australia, one of the country's top diplomats tells Britain.

Australian High Comissioner Alexander Downer said a trade deal between his country and the UK could bring huge benefits to both.

He said: 'We want to build back our trade with the UK. We could build substantially more trade if we were able to negotiate a free trade agreement with the UK.

'If you remain in the customs union then you would have no control over an independent trade policy. In fact you'd have no control over trade policy at all.

'Countries like Australia, China, Japan, the US and so on would not be able to conduct trade negotiations with the UK, we would only conduct trade negotiations with the EU.

'You wouldn't be relevant to that, because you wouldn't have a say in those negotiations, they would be exclusively conducted by the EU.'

Australia is a key target for a trade deal and closer ties after March next year.

Mr Downer told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme: 'From Australia's point of view here's what we would like to see coming out of the Brexit debate.

'Number one, we naturally don't want to see the EU and the UK introduce a whole lot of tariff barriers between them.

'There are none at the moment, we don't want to see that introduced. That would be damaging to the European and British economies but damaging to the global economy - that's what we are worried about.

BP chief executive Bob Dudley dismissed claims the UK would be 'diminished' by Brexit but admitted the world was still 'confused' at the decision.

BP chief executive Bob Dudley (file image) dismissed claims the UK would be 'diminished' by Brexit but admitted the world was still 'confused' at the decision

Theresa May's government has pinned its post-Brexit hopes on a raft of new trade deals with nations around the world, including the United States, Australia and China.

BP chief Mr Dudley told The Times: 'There are a lot of countries around the world that would like trade deals with Britain bilaterally down the road, I hear that a lot.

'I don't think British influence is diminished. BP works all over the world and I see the importance of Britain in what we do and how they view BP.'

International Trade Secretary Liam Fox (pictured centre) is charged with negotiating new deals for Brexit Britain

Mr Dudley 'the world is confused about [what to make of] Brexit' but added that he was 'very supportive' of the prime minister's attempts to 'negotiate a very complex agreement'

He warned: 'Most negotiations don't get done until right before deadline, so I think we are in for a year of uncertainty.'

Cabinet ministers are spending much of the half term break in Europe and around the world making the case for Brexit Britain.Purebred dogs in China are being squeezed into tiny, rusty cages in extremely filthy conditions by greedy breeders, an animal rights group has claimed.

At one such 'puppy mill' in Shanghai, eastern China, dogs were kept in a room so dark that visitors could barely see what was going on inside, according to an undercover investigator sent by PETA Asia.

At another 'puppy mill' in Guangdong Province, southern China, a male French bulldog, called Nutmeg, was seen limping across the dirty animal farm. According to the investigator, the purebred dog suffered from severe hip dysplasia.

An investigation by PETA Asia has revealed the horrifying conditions of 'puppy mills' in China

Footage taken by an undercover researcher shows a dog breeder brutally carrying a puppy

The dogs are confined into small and filthy cages in extremely dark rooms, the report shows

According to PETA Asia, the video and pictures were taken by one undercover researcher who visited 13 dog breeding farms in Shanghai, Guangdong and Shandong Provinces.

One spokesperson from PETA Asia told MailOnline that none of the 13 places appeared to meet China's national hygiene standards for dog breeders.

The investigator claimed to see dogs, many malnourished, sticking their noses through the cage wires trying to escape the stench of their own waste in the filthy 'puppy mills'.

The PETA spokesperson said that purebred dogs were often forced to mate 'around the clock' in such 'puppy mills', and many of the puppies were inbred.

The orgnisation claimed that they decided to carry out the investigation because the upcoming Lunar New Year would be the year of the dog; and they wanted to reveal what the animals were living through to satisfy the pet market in China.

A male French bulldog, called Nutmeg (pictured), is seen limping across the dirty animal farm

The investigator visited 13 dog breeding farms in Shanghai, Guangdong and Shandong

PETA Asia highlighted one male French bulldog, Nutmeg, which could only drag his back legs behind him due to severe hip dysplasia.

If left untreated, the condition could lead to crippling, lameness, or painful arthritis, urged the organisation.

French bulldog is one of the most popular dog breeds among Chinese pet owners.

Puppies bred by such breeders could sell up to 10,000 yuan (1,140) each in China, according to an earlier investigation by Chinese news outlet Kan Kan News.

A insider told Kan Kan News that in underground breeders as such, a female dog would be forced to give birth to two litters of puppies every year from the age of two until about eight; while male dogs would be forced to mate twice a week from the age of two until about six.

Apparently, puppy mills can be found around the world - not just in China. According to statistic provided by PETA, around 200,000 puppies were bred by puppy farmers in the UK every year.

Another dog breeder is caught roughly handling a puppy in a dirty and dark 'puppy mill'

Puppies bred by such breeders could reportedly sell up to 10,000 yuan (1,140) each in China

Purebred dogs are often forced to mate or carry babies 'around the clock' in such 'puppy mills'

In a report from last year, Eastern European gangs were caught smuggling thousands of puppies into Britain in 'shocking conditions'.

The Dogs Trust said nearly 100 pedigree puppies, which can net thousands of pounds each, were seized at the border in one week

Some as young as four weeks old resorted to vomiting and eating their own faeces as they were smuggled across Europe in cramped spaces with no air conditioning.

In addition, the number of illegally imported puppies stopped at UK borders has more than trebled over the past five years.Ten Army instructors have gone on trial facing a string of charges related to the alleged abuse of teenage recruits.

The non-commissioned officers face a total of 31 charges, 25 of ill-treatment and six of battery, relating to events said to have taken place over a nine-day period in June 2014.

It is alleged the defendants, all sergeants or corporals, ill-treated 12 recruits while instructors at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

It is alleged the defendants, all sergeants or corporals, ill-treated 12 recruits while instructors at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, North Yorkshire (file photo)

The particulars of the ill-treatment charges allege the victims were slapped or punched to the face, spat at, were grabbed by the throat, had their faces submerged in mud or were ordered to eat animal manure.

A reporting restriction imposed by Assistant Jude Advocate General Alan Large means no details heard in the case can be published.

The trial is the first of three involving army instructors at the battle camp, with a further six defendants due to appear later in the year for similar offences.

Judge Large said he will revisit the reporting restriction at the end of the third trial.

Sgt Simon Girault, of the 1st Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, denied four counts of battery and five counts of ill treatment against an inferior ranked soldier.

Sgt Steven Harrison, of the 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, and Sgt Thomas Bryan, of the 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment, each denied one count of battery and one of ill treatment.

SSgt Brian Crawford, of the 152 North Irish Regiment, Royal Logistics Corp, denied six counts of ill treatment, and Cpl Andrew Armitage, of 156 Regiment, also the RLC, denied one charge of ill treatment.

Sgt Mark Graham, of the HQ Defence Food Services School, RLC, and LSgt Steven Duncan, of 1st Battalion Scots Guards, both denied four counts of ill treatment.

Cpl Daniel Royle, of the 1st Battalion, Duke of Lancasters Regiment, Cpl Simon Thomas, 2nd Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment, and Cpl Robert Comley, of the Queens Dragoon Guards, each deny one count of ill treatment.

Each of the defendants deny the charges against them which are said to have taken place at a camp in Scotland.The White House can't decide whether to publicly slam fired aide Rob Porter over domestic violence claimed by his two former wives.

And it starts at the top.

President Donald Trump told reporters Friday in his only public statement on the episode that he was 'surprised' and made 'sad' by the allegations, 'but we certainly wish him well. It's obviously a tough time for him. ... we hope he has a wonderful career.'

Privately, however, the president has blamed Porter for creating a crisis for the administration. He told one confidant during a phone call Thursday that Porter was 'bad garbage,' according to The New York Times.

Former White House staff secretary Rob Porter (left) was drummed out of the White House last week following allegations of domestic violence by his two ex-wives

Despite seeming to defend Porter publicly on Friday, accounts are leaking out of the White House that suggest Trump is disgusted with him and considers him 'garbage'

White House deputy press secretary Hogan Gidley claimed Monday morning that Trump has publicly condemned domestic violence  but even a 'Fox & Friends' host was quick to correct him

Colbie Holderness, Porter's first wife, (left) claims he repeatedly punched and choked her. His second wife Jennifer Willoughby has also claimed that Porter was abusive in their marriage

Axios reports that Trump called Porter 'sick' behind closed doors after DailyMail.com published the ex-wives' accounts of suffering long-term physical abuse.

And he believes the women, despite not mentioning either of them on Friday as reporters listened and camera shutters clicked.

Colbie Holderness told DailyMail.com that Porter choked and punched her during their marriage, while Jennifer Willoughby said he dragged her wet and naked out of the shower and was verbally abusive.

The Porter saga is quickly developing into a full-scale crisis for the Trump administration as questions swirl about who in the White House knew about his past  and when.

Monday on 'Fox & Friends,' a program the president watches religiously, White House deputy press secretary Hogan Gidley was asked why Trump won't condemn Porter publicly.

Trump raised eyebrows on Friday by wishing Porter well  and not mentioning his victims

'I don't know if he is going to say that publicly or not, and I've not spoken with the president about this,' Gidley responded, claiming moments later that 'the president has been very clear that all forms of abuse, all forms of battery against women are deplorable and disgusting.'

'He hasn't said that!' responded co-host Brian Kilmeade.

'Right,' Gidley conceded, 'but he hasn't  you haven't talked to him today. Obviously he's said that multiple times in the past.'

'I have talked to the president about issues surrounding this type of behavior, and he finds it disgusting,' the Trump spokesman said.

Cornered on the president's widely panned performance on Friday, Gidley again insisted that 'the president has been out against domestic violence for a long time.'

'He didn't  in the oval office, the thing you are probably talking about  he was asked specifically about Rob Porter. The president deplores  thinks that domestic violence is grotesque.'

Multiple senior White House officials defended Porter last week, even after DailyMail.com published gruesome photos of a black eye Porter's first wife said was a result of him punching her.

And the White House's press team, according to Axios, said some senior officials urged Porter not to resign, but instead 'to stay and fight.'

John Kelly, who faced criticism for initially defending Porter, was told months ago that he (right) had a history of domestic violence that was keeping him from getting a security clearance

On Friday Trump cautioned reporters that Porter 'says he's innocent.'

A day later he tweeted that '[p]eoples lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation. Some are true and some are false. Some are old and some are new. There is no recovery for someone falsely accused - life and career are gone. Is there no such thing any longer as Due Process?'

Aides told some reporters on Sunday that Trump meant that tweet as a commentary on the saga of longtime friend Steve Wynn, who has resigned from the company he built following accusations of sexual harassment.A woman who claimed on Facebook that her ex-husband had tried to kill her is facing an estimated 300,000 legal bill after losing an appeal against a libel ruling.

Nicola Stocker, 50, said businessman Ronald Stocker, 67, had tried to kill her, during an online exchange with his new partner Deborah Bligh in December 2012.

Mr Stocker won a libel case against his ex-wife in 2016 after a judge ruled the comments wrongly painted him as a 'dangerous and thoroughly disreputable man'.

Nicola Stocker (left), 50, said businessman Ronald Stocker (right), 67, had tried to kill her, during an online exchange with his new partner in December 2012

Mr Justice Mitting said at London's High Court that the libel was 'not trivial', and assessed the compensation at 5,000 - though Mr Stocker did not want a penny.

The trial judge said 'each brought the worst out of each other' and they 'behaved to each other in a manner which does not credit either of them.'

Mrs Stocker, who lives in a 3million home in Longwick, Buckinghamshire, from where she runs her own stables, challenged the judge's ruling at the Appeal Court.

But her case was rejected by three senior judges and she will now have to pay a costs bill of about 200,000 from the earlier libel trial, plus up to an estimated 100,000 for the failed appeal.

Mrs Stocker made the comments in an online exchange with her ex-husband's new partner Deborah Bligh (pictured) in December 2012

Lady Justice Sharp said in a ruling today: 'It is unfortunate to say the least that attempts to resolve this litigation, including by mediation, have proved to be unsuccessful.'

During the trial, the court heard the allegations about Mr Stocker, who lives in a 2.5million detached home in Aston Clinton, Buckinghamshire, were published to 21 people who had authorised access to the page.

They were also visible to 110 of Ms Bligh's 'friends' and to their Facebook 'friends'.

Mr Stocker denied trying to strangle his ex-wife and claimed all he did was put a hand over her mouth to stop her waking their son who was asleep upstairs.

Ruling in favour of Mr Stocker, Mr Justice Mitting said a comment on Facebook was the same as a comment posted on an office noticeboard and Mrs Stocker had no right to assume it was private.

The judge found Mr Stocker did 'in temper' attempt to silence his ex-wife, but was not satisfied he had threatened to kill her and therefore her comments had a defamatory meaning.

Challenging his decision, Mrs Stocker argued the judge's conclusion on the meaning of her posts was wrong. She also said he had not applied the correct legal test when deciding whether she had 'published' the comments.

But, dismissing her appeal, Lady Justice Sharp said the judge's 'made no error' in reaching his decision.

Sitting with Lord Justice McFarlane and Sir John Laws, the judge added: 'It seems to me that the various arguments raised for Mrs Stocker tend to divert attention away from some basic points.

'She was the originator of the libel, she was aware that the particular Facebook platform concerned was a semi-public one and she deliberately posted on that platform without thinking about who else might see what she posted.'Lee County Circuit Judge Jay B. Rosman allegedly arranged to pay an undercover police officer $300 for a sex act

A married Florida circuit judge and five other men have been arrested in an undercover prostitution sting.

Lee County Circuit Judge Jay B. Rosman, 64, was charged with soliciting prostitution after allegedly arranging to pay an undercover police officer $300 for a sex act, the Naples Daily News reported.

The 64-year-old judge is also accused of trying to resist arrest, according to police records.

He and five other men, ages 29 to 70, were arrested at a Naples hotel on Friday for offering to pay between $150 and $300 for unspecified sex acts.

A spokeswoman from the 20th Judicial Circuit told the Naples Daily News that Rosman has been released on bail.

Rosman is married to Naples attorney Cathy Reiman and they have three children.

He worked as an assistant state attorney, assistant public defender, and in private practice before becoming a judge in 1986.

The 64-year-old judge is also accused of trying to resist arrest, according to police records

Rosman is married to Naples attorney Cathy Reiman (pictured) and they have three children

In 1992 Rosman was elected as circuit judge. He specializes in handling civil, probate and guardianship cases.

He has presided over a few high-profile cases, including the legal dispute over the trust of contemporary art icon Robert Rauschenberg, in which the judge awarded $24.6million to three trustees of the painter's Revocable Trust.

Rosman also served as Chief Judge of the Twentieth Judicial Circuit from to 2011 to 2015.

According to his biography on the 20th Judicial Circuit's website, he has taught business and criminal law courses at the University of South Florida since 1983, and in 1993 received the Outstanding Teaching Award - the highest award given to faculty members at the Tampa university.

The disgraced judge has been recognized for his work against domestic violence.

In 1995 he was a finalist for the Governors Peace at Home Award. The same year, one of his works on domestic violence was published in the Nova Law Review.The Bangladeshi woman who allegedly stabbed her Melbourne home-stay host in an 'ISIS-inspired' attack attended the same university as four Islamic State-linked extremists.

Momena Shoma, 24, attended North South University until late last year - the same institution where a group of men linked to Bangladesh's worst act of terrorism were students, The Australian reports.

The international student is accused of stabbing 56-year-old Roger Singaravelu in the neck Friday afternoon at his Callistemon Rise home in Mill Park, northeast of Melbourne.

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Momena Shoma, 24, who stabbed her Melbourne home-stay host in an 'ISIS-inspired' attack attended the same university as four Islamic State-linked extremists

Police revealed the following day the woman had been charged with one count of engaging in a terrorist attack after becoming 'self-radicalised'.

Current and former students at North South were among extremists killed in an attack on a restaurant that left 29 people dead, according to Bagladeshi authorities.

ISIS gunmen behind a 2016 attack on the Holey Artisan Bakery - a popular spot for Westerners - killed 22 people, including police officers and a former North South student.

Just weeks later, four students from North South were among ISIS extremists killed in police gunfights after being identified to be linked with the group that attacked the restaurant.

The father allegedly stabbed by a burqa-wearing woman inspired by Islamic State has been revealed as Roger Singaravelu (pictured)

Shoma attended North South University (pictured) until late last year - the same institution where a group of men linked to Bangladesh's worst act of terrorism were students

Taj-Ul-Haque Rashik was among the group, who also attended Mastermind School - the institution Shoma attended prior to North South.

Shoma travelled to Melbourne on February 1 on a student visa and was renting a room at Mr Singaravelu's property while studying at La Trobe University.

Detectives at the scene alleged she was dressed in a black burka and used a knife to attack the father as his daughter watched on.

Mr Singaravelu regularly opened his home to international students and was known as a 'nice guy' from a caring family who would share food with their neighbours.

Bangladeshi national Shoma was one student to take advantage of Mr Singaravelu's generosity, staying with the nurse at his home (pictured) in Mill Park, northeast Melbourne

He remained in hospital in a 'serious but stable' condition, according to police.

Before moving into the Mill Park home, Shoma stayed with a family in the nearby suburb of Bundoora, who said they were 'more than surprised' to hear of the stabbing.

It is unknown why she moved residences, but Australian Homestay Network chief executive Julie Manche said the occurrence was not uncommon.

'It's not unusual to move a student to find a more suitable host family at the request of the host or the student, but we can't comment on a particular case,' Ms Manche said.A man's beloved Chihuahua was thrown to his death from the seventh floor of a parking garage after a burglar broke into his car in California.

The unidentified owner of Dunky, the four-year-old Chihuahua, told police that he had parked his car on the seventh floor of a parking garage on Saturday.

According to the San Francisco Police Department, officers responded to the 400 block of Stockton Street around 2pm.

A man's beloved Chihuahua, named Dunky (pictured), was thrown to his death from the seventh floor of a parking garage after a burglar broke into his car in California

The unidentified owner of Dunky (pictured) told police that he had parked his car on the seventh floor of a parking garage on Saturday

The victim told police that when he was walking to his car, he noticed someone waiting with Dunky's body at the corner of Sutter and Stockton Streets.

At first the owner thought his dog somehow managed to get out of his vehicle and fell from the seventh floor of the parking garage.

But once the victim returned to his car, he discovered that someone had broken into it.

Broken glass and blood was found throughout the man's car and his glove compartment had been rummaged through.

'Officers found a blood trail leading to the ledge where Dunky was thrown onto the street below,' the SFPD said in a press statement.

Police then obtained surveillance footage which captured the suspect, identified as Wakeen Best, on video.

The victim told police that when he was walking to his car, he noticed someone waiting with Dunky's (pictured) body at the corner of Sutter and Stockton Streets

Police then obtained surveillance footage which captured the suspect, identified as Wakeen Best, on video. Best was arrested and charged with burglary, animal cruelty, grand theft, possession of stolen property, carrying a concealed weapon and vandalism

This is the parking garage that Dunky was thrown from. The pup was tossed off the seventh floor

Best was arrested on Sunday after an officer spotted him in the area of Polk and Bush Streets.

The 35 year-old San Francisco resident, was arrested and booked into San Francisco County Jail.

He was charged with burglary, animal cruelty, grand theft, possession of stolen property, carrying a concealed weapon, vandalism, and a probation violation.

Best was also booked on misdemeanor charges of possession of burglary tools, possession of drug paraphernalia, and violation of a court order.A dashcam has caught the terrifying moment a car inexplicably pulls out in front of another in a busy intersection, leading to a scary crash.

The footage was captured on a busy street in Sydney's north-west, showing a car proceeding through roadworks when a Toyota sedan pulls out in front.

The driver does not have enough time to react, as the grey Camry accelerates directly into their vehicle, resulting in a violent collision with airbags being deployed.

A dashcam has caught the terrifying moment a car inexplicably pulls out in front of another in a busy intersection, leading to a scary crash

The footage was captured on a busy street in Sydney's north-west, showing a car proceeding through roadworks when a Toyota sedan pulls out in front

The video was recorded Schofields Road just before 5pm on Sunday.

The driver initially appears to be driving at a high-rate of speed, before slowing as a car turns right across traffic about 50 metres in the distance.

As the car approaches the intersection, a concrete bollard is blocking the sight of the other turning cars.

The Toyota sedan then suddenly appears into shot, not appearing to brake as it enters the area.

They appear to be a learner driver, as an L-plate can be seen displayed on the bonnet.

The car proceeds directly across the oncoming traffic, resulting in a heavy collision that is all captured on the dashcam.

Footage shows the vehicle spinning violently as airbags are deployed throughout the car.

'Leg airbag under the wheel deployed injuring both legs, nothing broken, just a couple weeks rest and a bit of a limp,' the driver said on Facebook.

The Toyota sedan then suddenly appears into shot, not appearing to brake as it enters the area

The car proceeds directly across the oncoming traffic, resulting in a heavy collision that is all captured on the dashcam

Footage shows the vehicle spinning violently as airbags are deployed throughout the car

Reaction to the incident was mixed, with many condemning the dangerous driving of the Toyota sedan but others saying the dashcam driver was travelling too quickly.

'Learner driver, obviously has a lot to learn before getting behind the wheel again,' one person commented.

'Someone needs to go back and relearn how to drive because they clearly don't know how to give way,' another shared.

If he wasn't go so fast he would have avoided that and surely you he didn't see him not slow down,' a Facebook user said.A leading newspaper in Malaysia has published a guide on how to identify gay and lesbian people, drawing criticism from activists who say the checklist puts lives at risk.

The article, featured in the daily newspaper Sinar Harian, features bullets points highlighting qualities that are supposedly common in gay and lesbian people.

It suggests that gay men can be spotted by their beard and love of the gym - not for exercise but to admire other men. The piece also picked out branded clothing as an indicator of homosexuality.

A leading newspaper in Malaysia has published a guide on how to identify gay and lesbian people, drawing criticism from activists who say the checklist puts lives at risk

Gay men's eyes light up when they see handsome men, the story claimed. And Lesbians, the newspaper said, tend to hug one another, hold hands and belittle men.

Homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia and carries a sentence of up to 20 years under colonial-era sodomy laws.

What does the list say are the signs someone is gay or lesbian? It says gay men... are dominant and like to wear tight clothes to show off their six packs love to have 'adoptive brothers' adore beards, mustaches and branded clothes It says lesbian women... Hate men and enjoy belittling them Love to spend time by themselves Enjoy hugging one other and holding hands Advertisement

Activitist and social media star Arwind Kumar lashed out at the article, arguing in a video that 'there are much more important issues in this country which need to be addressed'.

'If you really want to educate society then explain to them the traits of a paedophile, a molester, a murderer, a kidnapper, people who actually endanger the lives of others. How the hell does a gay person endanger your life?'

Kumar's video, uploaded to YouTube, has been viewed by more than 100,000 people.

Kumar took the article's writers to task, mocking the idea that facial hair was an indicator of sexual preference.

'I know a lot of priests, I know a lot of [Islamic scholars], I know a lot of of really, really religious people who love keeping beards. Are you trying to say they are gay? That's how stupid this is,' he said.

The increasingly poor treatment of gay, lesbian and transgender people in Malaysia is being driven in part by the increasing influence of conservative Islam, other critics said.

The Sinar Harian article was printed in conjunction with an interview with Hanafiah Malik, a preacher who said that there was an urgent need to stop the rise of homosexuality in Malaysia.

Just last year an 18-year-old student was beaten then burned to death by his classmates and a 27-year-old transgender woman was murdered in her flower shop as a wave of homophobic attacks sweep the country. Pictured: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's capital

Homophobic rhetoric has also become commonplace in the the country's government.

In March last year Walt Disney pulled the release of its film Beauty and Beast from Malaysia after film censors deemed it could only be approved if a gay scene was cut.

A Malaysian health ministry youth video competition also called for entries on the topic of the prevention and consequences of being gay, lesbian or transgender.

It comes after a spate of recent deaths of people thought to be gay, lesbian and transgender.

Just last year an 18-year-old student was beaten then burned to death by his classmates who labelled him a 'pondon' - an insulting term for a gay man.

A 27-year-old transgender woman called Sameera Krishnan was stabbed with a knife and shot three times while she worked at her florist shop a few months later.

Last year a Human Rights Watch report found discrimination against LGBT people was 'pervasive' in Malaysia.

'If you ask someone not to be themselves that will have an adverse impact on the health and-well being of the person,' said Thilaga Sulathireh, co-founder of transgender activist group Justice for Sisters.

There are no official figures on transgenders in Malaysia, though a health ministry document estimated that the country was home to about 24,000 transgender sex workers as of 2014.A pastor suspected of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old Chinese exchange student at a Southern California hotel has surrendered to authorities after a two-day manhunt.

Douglas Rivera, 40, was accompanied by his attorney when he turned himself in on Sunday at the Covina Police Department east of Los Angeles.

Investigators say the pastor at Gods Gypsy Christian Church in Glendale is suspected of spying on two girls through their window on Wednesday night, masturbating in his pickup truck and then breaking into their room to assault one of them.

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Pastor busted: Douglas Rivera, 40, (pictured left in mugshot), a California pastor, was booked on Sunday on counts of child molestation, indecent exposure and burglary

Surrender: Rivera turned himself in at the Covina Police Department on Sunday, following a two-day manhunt

Rivera was set free three hours later, after posting $280,000 bail

Witnesses reported seeing Riveras silver truck at the Vanllee Hotel and Suites.

Authorities later located and towed the Dodge Ram 4500 truck, which had been re-painted black.

Before turning himself in, Rivera proclaimed his innocence in an Instagram video, claiming that he was at the wrong place at the wrong time.'

Addressing the allegations agaisnt him on Friday night, Rivera said 'there is absolutely no truth to that' and asked the people of Los Angeles to keep him in their prayers.

'God will take his truth out. I love you,' Rivera said.

The cleric was booked on charges of child molestation, indecent exposure and burglary at around 11am on Sunday, and was released three hours later after posting $280,000 bail, reported CBS Los Angeles.

Gods Gypsy Christian Church has been renting space from Glendale City Church of Seventh-day Adventists, where Senior Pastor Todd Leonard released a statement on Sunday saying Rivera has been barred from entering the campus.

Police in Covina, California, released these screenshots on Friday in the hope of finding the man who they said sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl after spying on her through a hotel window

Getaway vehicle: The suspect fled the scene in his dark-colored Dodge 4500 Ram pickup truck (pictured in CCTV screenshot)

The victim was staying at Vanllee Hotel and Suites in Covina while on a school trip from China

The Covina Police Department on Friday released screenshots from surveillance footage showing the suspect, later identified as Douglas Rivera, lurking outside the Vanllee Hotel after hours on Wednesday.

According to a news release, the incident took place just after 8pm at the hotel on East Garvey Avenue North.

Investigators say the suspect drove through the hotel parking lot until he noticed a lit room with drapes open.

He parked his dark-colored Dodge 4500 Ram pickup truck directly in front of the window of the hotel room, which was occupied by two girls, ages 10 and 13, who were on a school trip from China, reported CBS Los Angeles.

Suspect speaks out: Before turning himself in, Rivera proclaimed his innocence in an Instagram video, claiming that he was at the wrong place at the wrong time'

'The suspect masturbated while watching the two minors,' according to the press release.

The man then emerged from his truck and stood outside the window, pretending to be on his cellphone for more than 30 minutes.

Afterwards, the suspect walked through the hotel lobby, knocked on the door of the girls room and forced his way inside when they opened the door, thinking it was their chaperone.

Rivera sexually assaulted the 13-year-old girl and then fled in his truck, police said.

The incident was labeled in the press release as an 'oral copulation investigation.' Police said the parents of the victim have been notified.

After investigators identified the suspect in the video as Douglas, they raised his Baldwin Hills home on Friday and seized his truck.

A neighbor said the 40-year-old pastor was seen the day before painting his silver truck black.Hope Hicks was photographed as she headed off to work on Monday, marking the start of her first week at the office without boyfriend Rob Porter by her side.

The White House Communications Director, 29, was certainly dressed to impress, stepping out bare-legged despite the frigid and rainy weather in the nation's capital. wearing a $395 ruffled high-neck blouse with balloon sleeves by Caroline Constas and a double-breasted camel coat.

She also showed off a fresh blowout and some heavy makeup, opting for a smokey eye, bold lip and heavy rogue to kick off the work week.

Hicks finished off her look with a pair of black heels, pearl studs and a black tote.

Hicks is coming off a difficult week at both home and the office, where her boss President Trump has reportedly grown increasingly frustrated with the longest-serving employee in the administration.

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On the move: Hope Hicks (above on Monday) was photographed leaving her apartment in Washington DC on Monday and heading to the White House

There she goes: She is starting her first week of work without boyfriend Rob Porter by her side after the White House secretary resigned last week following abuse allegations

Vcitor/Victorian: Hicks, 29, went bare legged despite the frigid and rainy weather, wearing a demure blouse with a nigh neck by Caroline Constas that retails for $395

Made in the suede: Hicks strode out to her car in a pair of perilously high heels (above)

A source told CNN that President Trump's anger is a result of how the Porter scandal was handled, and his lack of involvement in planning out the strategy to deal with the allegations.

President Trump reportedly believes that Hicks is letting her feelings for the former staff secretary cloud her judgement.

On Friday, Hicks found nothing to smile about as she made her way to the Oval Office to hear President Trump deliver prepared remarks about her newly unemployed boyfriend.

Hicks was photographed at one point listening in while a smiling Kellyanne Conway spoke into her ear, but her somber expression remained fixed on her face.

And later, she could be seen placing her hand on John Kelly's back as the forlorn Chief of Staff stood solo in a corner while watching President Trump speak.

Despite the claims of frustration, President Trump released a statement on Friday which said: 'Hope is absolutely fantastic.

'She was with the campaign from the beginning, and I could not ask for anything more. Hope is smart, very talented and respected by all.'

The President's daughter, Ivanka, who hired Hicks several years ago to work for her company before she moved on to the Trump campaign, called her a 'team player.

She added: 'Most importantly, the President has deep respected for her, cares about her greatly, and listens to her. That's not true of everyone. She's earned that.'

Boy brain: President Trump reportedly believes that Hicks is letting her feelings for the former staff secretary cloud her judgement (Porter and Hicks above in early February on date night)

No 'I' in team: The President's daughter, Ivanka, who hired Hicks several years ago to work for her company before she moved on to the Trump campaign, called her a 'team player.

Stand by his man: President Trump defended Porter when he spoke to reporters in the Oval Office on Friday

Don defends: He said of the allegations: 'I found out about it recently and I was surprised by it. But we certainly wish him well. It's obviously a tough time for him'

President Trump defended Porter when he spoke to reporters in the Oval Office on Friday.

He said of the allegations: 'I found out about it recently and I was surprised by it. But we certainly wish him well. It's obviously a tough time for him.'

'He did a very good job when he was in the White House and we hope he has a wonderful career, and hopefully he will have a great career ahead of him.'

President trump then continued to defend Porter.

'It was very sad when we heard about it,' Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, 'and certainly he's also very sad.

'Now, he also, as you probably know, he says he's innocent. And I think you have to remember that. He said very strongly yesterday that he's innocent.

'So you'll have to talk to him about that. But we absolutely wish him well. He did a very good job when he was at the White House.'

There was no mention of the three women who have accused Porter of abuse, and as soon as President Trump finished he quickly dismissed all assembled members of the press pool.

It was less than 24 hours after DailyMail.com first broke the story about Porter's alleged abuse.

Porter stepped down from his job following on-the-record claims to DailyMail.com from his ex-wives Colbie Holderness and Jennifer Willoughby about the abuse they say they suffered during their marriages to the former Trump aide.

Holderness claims Porter choked and punched her during their marriage, while Willoughby says he dragged her wet and naked out of the shower and was verbally abusive.

Relationship strain: Porter stepped down from his job following on-the-record claims to DailyMail.com from his ex-wives Colbie Holderness and Jennifer Willoughby

Don dismisses: There was no mention of the three women who have accused Porter of abuse, and as soon as President Trump finished he quickly dismissed all assembled members of the press pool

Problem child: Holderness claims Porter choked and punched her during their marriage, while Willoughby says he dragged her wet and naked out of the shower

Boss baby: President Trump reportedly believes that Hicks is letting her feelings for the former staff secretary cloud her judgement

On Friday, DailyMail.com also reported that Kelly was told in October 2017 that Porter's ex-wives were prepared to level devastating accusations of spousal abuse against him.

Porter's then-girlfriend told Kelly personally that Porter had abused his two exes, according to a White House official.

White House counsel Don McGahn had known since early 2017 that Porter was at risk of being accused of being violent with the women.

But the news made it to Kelly when Porter's girlfriend told him, after contacting a White House aide who reported to him.Business Minister Andrew Griffiths, who is expecting his first child with his wife Kate in April, revealed he will not be allowed to take shared parental leave (file pic)

A Business Minister in charge of persuading couples to take up shared parental leave has revealed he is barred from taking part in the scheme.

Andrew Griffiths, who is expecting his first child with his wife Kate in April, toured the radio studios today to plug the scheme.

But he said that he is not allowed to take shared parental leave because Government ministers are banned from doing so.

The embarrassing admission comes as the Government embarks on a major publicity blitz to encourage more men to take up the offer to share the 50 weeks of parental lave with their other half.

It comes after fresh figures show that take up of the scheme could be as low as two per cent.

Mr Griffiths, who became small business minister in the January reshuffle, said that as 'an office holder rather than an employee' he cannot take up the offer.

He told the Emma Barnett Show on BBC 5 Live: 'Ministers aren't allowed to. But I think I am going to be the first-ever minister responsible for maternity and paternity to take their full allocation of paternity.

'I've already told my office that I'm taking two weeks off.'

The surprised host replied: 'Hang on a minute. Back up a second.

'You've just come on the radio to promote shared parental leave, and you're in a job where the rules could be changed because you are the rule-makers - where you are not allowed to take shared parental leave.'

Mr Griffiths announced he is expecting his first child with a tweet of a photograph of a bun baking in an oven back in October (pictured)

But Mr Griffiths said that while he had discussed the policy with his wife he had not given much thought to the fact he is banned from it.

What is the law on shared parental leave and how much time can you take off? The Government is going on a publicity blitz to increase take up o shared parental leave. It allows mothers and fathers to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay - at 140 a week - after having a child. Parents can take it off in up to three separate blocks, or sharing the time to have up to six months off together But while around 285,000 couples every year are eligible for the scheme, take up is understood to be as low as two per cent. Shared parental leave was introduced in 2015 in a bid to hep mothers return to work and get fathers to spend more time with their newborn. The Government is spending 1.5million on an advertising campaign to try to increase take up of the policy. Advertisement

He said: 'I have to admit to you that it's not even something that I had thought about. It's not my priority.

'My priority is to focus on how we can deliver a policy that works for hundreds of thousands people.'

But he said he would 'certainly take it away' and consider the issue.

Mr Griffiths announced he is expecting his first child with a tweet of a photograph of a bun baking in an oven back in October.

Under the scheme, parents can share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay after having a baby.

Parents can take it off in up to three separate blocks, or sharing the time to have up to six months off together

Parents can spend up to six months together at home, but while 285,000 couples are eligible for the scheme just two per cent have taken up the offer.

Shared parental leave was introduced in 2015 in a bid to hep mothers return to work and get fathers to spend more time with their newborn.

The Business department has launched a share the joy campaign to plug the policy on social media, TV and trains.

The Government is spending 1.5million on an advertising campaign to try to increase take up of the policy.Walter Roney, 99, died on Friday after he crashed into two teenage girls on Tuesday because he was driving in the wrong direction on a busy Florida highway

A 99-year-old RV driver who went the wrong way on a Florida highway Tuesday and killed two teenagers in a head-on crash has died of his injuries.

Walter Roney of Dearborn, Michigan, died on Friday, the Florida Highway Patrol said Monday.

His death came three days after the fatal crash that killed 18-year-old Santia Feketa and her 17-year-old best friend, Britney Poindexter.

Florida Highway Patrol has determined that neither the vehicle's interior lights nor headlights were functioning at the time of the crash.

'The inside interior lights were not working at the time,' Florida Highway Patrol Sgt. Raymond Stuhr said in a news conference Thursday.

'We believe the headlights were not functional at the time of the crash as well.'

Records show Roney had recently passed a re-examination in his home state of Michigan that allowed him to keep his driver's license that included vision, paper and road tests.

Britney Poindexter, 17 (left), and Santia Feketa, 18 (right), were killed when an RV driven by 99-year-old Walter Roney crashed into their truck head on going the wrong way in traffic

Michigan driving records show that someone reported Roney to state motor vehicle officials in September, recommending the Dearborn resident be re-examined to determine whether he was still competent even though he had no recent accidents or tickets.

He passed that test January 8, 29 days before the fatal crash.

According to Michigan officials, drivers who are re-examined may be required to pass a driving test and tests of their vision, road sign and law knowledge to keep their license.

They can also have restrictions such as a ban on night-time driving implemented.

Roney and his passenger, 75-year-old Carolyn Bruns were rushed to the hospital in critical and serious condition. Above, the Michiganders' RV. He had recently retaken his driving test

The teens were driving in a Chevy Silverado. They were pronounced dead at the scene

Fred Woodhams, a spokesman for the Michigan secretary of state's office, which oversees driver's licenses, would not say who flagged Roney's ability to drive, citing confidentiality policies.

He said referrals typically come from law enforcement, a family member or a medical professional.

He said the re-examination determined Roney had an acceptable medical condition. Woodhams declined to specify what the condition was, citing privacy laws, and could not say what tests Roney was given.

'He was able to demonstrate to the department at the re-examination that whatever the question was, he had addressed it,' Woodhams said.

Poindexter (left) and Feketa (right) who were both equestrians, according to their Facebooks

Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the fatal accident

According to Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Alvaro Feola, Roney and his 75-year-old girlfriend, Carolyn Elizabeth-Evans Bruns of Brighton, Michigan, were driving Tuesday from Melbourne on Florida's Atlantic coast, where property records show Roney owns a condo.

They were headed to Port Charlotte on the state's Gulf Coast to have interior electrical issues with their RV repaired, Feola said.

They exited Interstate 95 in Fort Pierce shortly before 7 p.m., with Roney taking over the driving from Bruns.

Somehow, Feola said, Roney headed west in the eastbound lanes of Florida 70, a four-lane highway that crosses the state.

Feketa, left, and Poindexter, right, were driving on Okeechobee Road west of Midway Road at about 7 p.m. Tuesday when they were fatally struck by an RV driving on the wrong side

The crash happened on State Road 70 (also known as Okeechobee Road), just west of Midway Road. Roney was driving westbound in the eastbound lanes

Feola said it does not appear the RV's headlights were turned on, although Bruns told investigators they had been working when she was driving.

Feketa was driving east in her 2013 Chevrolet Silverado with Poindexter in the passenger seat when Roney's RV smashed into them.

TCPalm reports Feketa had taken classes at the local community college before graduating from high school in June, and was already a college junior working toward becoming a kindergarten teacher.

Poindexter, a high school junior, competed in equestrian barrel racing and was involved in the 4-H Club.

A man who answered at a Michigan phone number linked to a Roney relative declined to comment when contacted Thursday and hung up.

Roney's burial will take place at St. Hedwig Cemetery in Dearborn Heights, Michigan.The leader of ISIS is alive and being treated at a field hospital in Syria after being wounded in an air strike, an Iraqi interior ministry official claims.

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is reportedly unable to walk unaided due to 'fractures to the bones and legs', and is suffering from diabetes.

This is far from the first time it has been claimed that al-Baghdadi has been either injured or killed, and there has yet to be official confirmation of either.

He's alive: Leader of the Islamic State group, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, pictured in 2014, is reportedly alive and being treated in hospital in northeast Syria

However, Iraq's intelligence and counterterrorism department head Abu Ali al-Basri says: 'We have irrefutable information and documents from sources within the terrorist organisation that al-Baghdadi is still alive and hiding' in Syria's northeastern Jazira region.

ISIS, also known as Islamic State and Daesh, retains a significant presence in the desert plains of northeastern Syria's Hasakeh province despite having lost most of its cross-border 'caliphate' which once also covered a third of neighbouring Iraq.

Basri said that al-Baghdadi was suffering from 'injuries, diabetes and fractures to the body and legs that prevent him from walking without assistance'.

The jihadist chief had been wounded in 'air raids against IS strongholds in Iraq'.

Iraqi authorities last week published a list of 'internationally wanted terrorist leaders' headed al-Baghdadi, who was born in 1971 under the name Ibrahim Awad Ibrahim Ali al-Badri al-Samarrai.

A profile of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, released by Iraq authorities this week, shows other names he has used

Al-Baghdadi has barely been seen in any images or video footage outside of the terrorist group, despite ISIS's frequent releases of propaganda material.

In 2014, a video was released showing al-Baghdadi preaching during Friday prayer at a mosque in Mosul, Iraq, which was then held by ISIS.

In June 2016, Turkish media reported that al-Baghdadi had been killed in a US air strike in Raqqa, Syria, but this was never confirmed.

In December that year, The Pentagon said it believed that the ISIS chief was alive, despite repeated efforts by the US-led coalition.

A few weeks later, in January 2017, local news reported that al-Baghdadi had been 'critically injured' in air strikes in Al-Ba'aj, northern Iraq.

Come June, the Russian army said in a statement that the ISIS leader was likely one of the victims of a night-time air-raid on Raqqa in May, a time when the city was still the terror organisation's 'de-facto' capital.

ISIS reportedly 'admitted' this in July, however, come September, an American military chief said the jihadist chief was still alive and probably hiding in eastern Syria's Euphrates Valley.Ukrainian opposition leader Mikheil Saakashvili was bundled out of a restaurant by masked men in camouflage before being deported to Poland, a spokesman for Ukraine's border service said.

'This person was on Ukrainian territory illegally and therefore, in compliance with all legal procedures, he was returned to the country from where he arrived,' spokesman Oleh Slobodyan said in a post on Facebook.

The former president of Georgia entered Ukraine last September despite being stripped of his Ukrainian citizenship in a protracted standoff with the Kiev authorities, whom he accuses of corruption.

A video posted on Saakashvili's official Facebook page showed several men in green military uniform approaching a man lying on the floor of a restaurant.

'Unknown people in masks seized Mikheil Saakashvili and took him away.

'The kidnappers were in three white minivans,' a Facebook post on the same page read.

His spokeswoman said the border service was likely behind the move.

Ukrainian opposition leader Mikheil Saakashvili has been deported to Poland. Pictured: Footage of the raid shows men in green military uniform shouting orders at Saakashivili who is seen lying on the floor of a restaurant

Kiev police were not involved, the police spokeswoman said.

The 49-year-old, who stands accused of trying to stage a coup sponsored by Russia, was stripped of his Ukrainian passport in 2017.

Saakashvili broke through the Ukrainian-Polish border with the help of his supporters in September last year and since then has led rallies calling for President Petro Poroshenko to be ousted.

Saakashvili was granted Ukrainian citizenship and invited by President Petro Poroshenko to become governor of the Odessa region after the 'Maidan' protests ousted a pro-Russian president in early 2014, but the two later fell out.

There was no immediate sign of public outcry, unlike the street protests that allowed Saakashvili to escape police custody in December - one of the more dramatic twists in his long-running cat-and-mouse game with the Ukrainian authorities.

Formerly Georgia's president, Saakashvili has been a fervent critic of government corruption

The former Georgian president entered Ukraine last year despite being stripped of Ukrainian citizenship

Saakashvili was a key figure in the 2003 Rose Revolution protests in Georgia that ousted the country's president. He then served as president for nearly a decade.

He left Georgia in 2013 and later was appointed governor of Ukraine's Odessa region. But he quit that office in 2016, complaining that his efforts to root out corruption suffered official obstruction.

His Ukrainian citizenship was revoked this year when he was out of the country, but he returned in September after supporters broke through a police line at the Polish border.

Several hours after Sunday's rally, about 150 people in camouflage and balaclava masks blocked the entrance to the only Ukrainian television station that covered Saakashvili's rally.

They demanded that the station change its editorial policies and that its owner, parliament member Yegeny Murayev, apologise for remarks that they regarded as disrespectful of the 2014 Kiev protests.I was greeted at Mendi by the hospital's manager, who took me on a tour of the facility. It was in a terrible state, being desperately short of equipment, drugs and all the essential materials required to provide a decent service to the local people.

To this end, I persuaded my board of directors to allow me to visit Mendi hospital in early 1999.

They soon realised that the health system in Papua New Guinea was in a parlous state. They contacted me and asked me to twin my hospital with Mendi hospital and provide it with help and support.

At that time, two of my colleagues left SA Health and took up appointments as advisers to the Lae and Mount Hagen hospitals respectively.

ADELAIDE - About 20 years ago I was the Chief Executive of a large regional hospital at Mount Gambier in South Australia.

The staff, notably the nurses, were working miracles with almost nothing. I was amazed at their ability to do this. They were incredibly committed and had good skills but utterly unsupported.

All but one piece of biomedical equipment in the hospital was unserviceable, mostly because no spares were available for the competent bio-medical technician to repair or maintain the equipment. Appeals to Port Moresby for help had fallen on deaf ears.

Upon my return to Mount Gambier I asked my senior bio-medical technician, a man with exceptional skills as an instrument maker and miniature engineer, if he would go to Mendi to help repair the bio-medical equipment. He agreed.

I asked him to call in every favour ever owed to us by the manufacturers and retailers of bio-medical equipment used by the hospital.

Also, I asked him to contact every colleague in South Australia to source whatever obsolete, redundant or spare piece of equipment he could lay his hands on.

He subsequently spent six weeks in Mendi during which time, with access to two huge crates of equipment sent from Mount Gambier, he and the local technician repaired every piece of equipment in the hospital. This was very well received.

I also organised a staff exchange for two senior nurses from Mendi to come to Mount Gambier for six weeks to learn as much as they could about how we did things, especially in relation of accident and emergency services.

We organised local accommodation and meals for them, while Mendi paid their airfares.

Unhappily, I was unable to maintain the relationship because my board baulked at the costs involved. We were under tremendous budget pressure then and they felt we could not (politically) justify spending many thousands of dollars on a remote hospital in PNG.

More happily, my senior bio-medical technician's efforts had not gone unnoticed by AusAID, which paid for him to spend about three months each year travelling around the Pacific fixing stuff. I cannot recall how long he did this for, but it was several years at least.

Now, 20 years later, nothing seems to have changed. A former colleague is in Mount Hagen and believes that most hospital staff are doing their best with little or no support from a government which is either unwilling or unable to support them.

The PNG government is a disgrace to its nation. It routinely betrays its people through incompetence or corruption or indifference.

It is beyond belief that the desperately under-resourced colonial administration was more able to deliver basic health, education and transport services than the PNG government has shown itself able to do over past decades.

The same can be said for the maintenance of law and order. A mere handful of patrol officers and police carried out this task, mostly without resort to heavy handed tactics or violence.

It wasn't perfect, but it did work, mainly because the people accepted that they received fair treatment most of the time, even if they didn't like the outcomes that much.

Surely there is someone, somewhere, whether in the government or in the ranks of the PNG public service who can do something about this deplorable state of affairs?

It is not hard to foresee a very grim future for PNG if the current situation is allowed to persist.

This is painful to contemplate for those of us lapuns who once believed that Papua New Guinea could and should have a shining future.Philippines leader Rodrigo Duterte has told his soldiers to shoot female rebels in the vagina instead of killing them because without one they 'would be useless'.

The 72-year-old President's remarks, made during a speech last week, have been condemned by a human rights group as 'misogynist, derogatory and demeaning'.

Duterte, who served as a city mayor before becoming President, said: 'Tell the soldiers, "there's a new order coming from the mayor. We won't kill you. We will just shoot your vagina".

Philippines leader Rodrigo Duterte (pictured) has told his soldiers to shoot female rebels in the vagina instead of killing them because without one they 'would be useless'

'If there is no vagina, it would be useless,' he added, according to local media.

Human Rights Watch slammed the comments, which related to female communist rebels in the country.

It said in a statement to Al Jazeera, that it was just the latest in a series of misogynist, derogatory and demeaning statements he has made about women'.

Carlos Conde, a Human Rights Watch representative in the Philippines, added: 'It encourages state forces to commit sexual violence during armed conflict, which is a violation of international humanitarian law.'

It is not the first time the firebrand leader has come underfire for his controversial remarks.

In May last year he 'joked' that his soldiers could rape women and he would go to prison for them as he rallied the troops against ISIS.

Duterte made the remark after imposing marital law as part of a clamp down on Maute terrorists, a move which drew heavy criticism, even from his allies.

The 72-year-old President's remarks, made during a speech last week, have been condemned by a human rights group as 'misogynist, derogatory and demeaning'

He told troops: 'For this martial law and the consequences of martial law and the ramifications of martial law, I and I alone would be responsible.

'Just do your work. I will handle the rest. I will be imprisoned for you. If you rape three (women), I will say that I did it.'

In 2016, while running for President, Duterte made a joke about the rape and murder of an Australian woman in the country in 1989.

In a reference to the brutal gang rape and murder of missionary Jacqueline Hamill at a Davao City jail, he said: 'When the bodies were brought out, they were wrapped. I looked at her face, son of a b***h, she looks like a beautiful American actress. Son of a b***h, what a waste.

'What came to mind was, they raped her, they lined up. I was angry because she was raped, that's one thing. But she was so beautiful, the mayor should have been first.'

He later apologised and said he did not intend to disrespect women or victims of sexual assault.This is the tense moment where a two-year-old boy is caught in a blanket by neighbours after jumping from a three-storey apartment building.

The terrifying scene was caught on camera by a passer-by in the Kagthane district of Istanbul in Turkey.

Civilians, successfully caught the child who had reportedly been hanging out of the window for ten minutes before concerned residents raised the alarm.

Neighbours reportedly tried to yell and scream to get the attention of the mother who was inside the apartment but didn't get any response.

The dramatic video, shot near the scene, shows resourceful residents opening a piece of bed linen under the window to break the child's fall as the toddler clings to the window sill and then finally falls into the blanket.

At that moment, a woman emerges from the window adjacent and alarmed, seems to run down downstairs to the baby's aid. A second person can also be seen emerge from the window in which the baby fell.

The two-year-old was miraculously unhurt after the jump.

The residents gather beneath the window of the apartment with the blanket in an effort to save the small child's life

The dramatic footage shows the small child jump into the blanket held by a crowd of concerned residents who caught the toddler after seeing him at the three-storey window

Gurkay Guney, a neighbour who rushed to the scene, said the child tried to climb back inside after coming out completely but he failed and let himself fall.

'We tried to calm him down, gave him some water and returned him to his family. He was terrified,' Guney said.

Another resident who witnessed the incident said the mother 'only came downstairs after her child was rescued'.

The family have declined to speak to the press.The family of a couple who went missing more than a month ago from their vacation home in Arizona are getting desperate for information that might point to where they could be.

Jerry and Susan McFalls, both 62-years-old, seemed to 'vanish into thin air' from their second home in Littlefield on January 11, leaving behind no signs or evidence suggesting where they could be.

The couple, from West Jordan, Utah, left no signs of struggle in the home, according to investigators.

Jerry and Susan McFalls, both 62-years-old, seemed to 'vanish into thin air' from their second home in Littlefield on January 11, leaving behind no signs or evidence suggesting where they could be

The couple's relatives are now getting desperate for information that might point to where they could be

The couple, from West Jordan, Utah, left no signs of struggle in the home (pictured), according to investigators. In fact, the door was ajar, drinks were out, and wallets were home

Their daughter-in-law Meridee McFalls said she heard from the couple earlier on the 11th, receiving a text message that they'd be returning to their Utah home later that day.

She said when they never arrived the family grew concerned and eventually called police.

'Vehicles were here, cars are here, wallets are here, drinks were out, the door was open, the dogs were here,' she told KUTV two weeks after their disappearance.

Police, friends and family have been combing the desert terrain that surrounds their home, but there is still no sign.

And on Sunday, one month from when the couple vanished, family and friends in Utah held a vigil, praying for answers.

'We're hanging tough,' Meridee told Deseret News Sunday night, adding that her husband, Jerry McFalls Jr, is headed back to Arizona to continue the search this week.

'We've got lots of people out searching. The area, unfortunately, where they're from is so vast that if you're not standing on top of it, you can't see it three feet in front of you.'

Police, friends and family have been combing the desert terrain that surrounds their home, but there is still no sign

And on Sunday, one month from when the couple vanished, family and friends in Utah held a vigil, praying for answers. Pictured are a group of volunteers and authorities searching the area around the couple's home on February 2

Their daughter in law said that right now 'the biggest fear is not knowing,'. They are each pictured with their dogs in photos posted to a volunteer Facebook group

She said they appreciate the outpouring of support from well-wishers 'all over the place.'

Meridee said that the couple's health is the most concerning aspect of their disappearance, as they're older and have to take medicine daily.

'They're frail, they're older,' she explained. 'Dad is insulin dependent on shots and mom is pill dependent on her shots for her diabetes.'

She said that right now 'the biggest fear is not knowing,' noting that what they want more than anything is closure.

'At least if we found something, some kind of closure.. it may not tell us what happened to them right now not knowing of where they are and what the next clue is,' she said.

Anyone with information is urged to call the Mohave County Sheriff's Department.Bruce Basswood, 47 (pictured), of Ponsford, Minnesota, was charged on Friday with two counts of criminal vehicular homicide in connection in the fatal hit-and-run that killed Joshua Jones, 21, of Ponsford, on Thursday

A Minnesota man with five previous DUIs has been charged in the death of a 21-year-old man he ran over while driving drunk on Thursday.

Bruce Basswood, 47, of Ponsford, was charged on Friday in Becker County District Court with two counts of criminal vehicular homicide in connection to the fatal hit-and-run that killed Joshua Jones, of Ponsford.

A breath test carried out by law enforcement revealed Basswood's blood alcohol content at 0.10 percent, above the 0.08 percent legal limit for driving in Minnesota, according The Star Tribune.

He also admitted to using methamphetamine a few days earlier.

Basswood has been convicted five times for drunken driving, with the first occurring when he was 20 years old and the most recent in June 2016.

He's also been convicted six times for driving after the state canceled his license, most recently in May 2017.

In the most recent case case, Wadena County District Judge Waldemar Senyk sentenced him to a year in jail but set him free after he served one month and put him on two years' unsupervised probation.

According to the prosecutor's office, Basswood was driving Pow Wow Highway, east of the city of Pine Point, at about 7.25pm on Thursday when he hit Jones.

Jones, who was a pedestrian, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.

The crash occurred around 7.25pm on Pow Wow Highway, east of Pine Point. Jones was a pedestrian. A breath test carried out by law enforcement revealed Basswood's blood alcohol content at 0.10 percent, above the 0.08 percent legal limit for driving in Minnesota

A suspect vehicle was later found in Pine Point, and three people, including Basswood, were taken into custody.

The other two, Randall Lorne Basswood, 48, of Mahnomen, and Desiree Nate Freadrich, 35, of North Dakota, were released by Friday afternoon pending further investigation.

Basswood remains in custody at the Becker County Jail ahead of his first court appearance late Monday morning. Court records do not list an attorney for him.This is the first picture to emerge of a woman who was stabbed to death in a flat in north London.

Hannah Leonard, 55, was found with stab wounds in an apartment block in Camden on Friday.

It is unknown how long Ms Leonard had been in the flat before she was found by contractors who were recladding the 23-storey tower block.

Police were called to Bray Tower, Fellows Road, north west London, at 10.30am on Friday after paramedics reported a woman had been found with stab injuries.

Hannah Leonard, 55, was found with stab wounds in an apartment block in Camden on Friday and was pronounced dead at the scene

However although emergency services attended but Ms Leonard was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 43-year-old woman and a 28-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of murder at separate addresses in Kilburn on Sunday morning and remain in police custody.

Police were called to Bray Tower, on Fellows Road in north-west London, at 10.30am on Friday

Scotland Yard said on Sunday evening that they remained in police custody.

The flats were evacuated in June last year because it was discovered the building was covered in flammable cladding as well as having safety defects inside the building, reports Camden New Journal.

Construction workers have been working on the tower block to fix the defects for the past seven months.

A police spokesman said: 'Next of kin have been notified.

'A post-mortem examination will be conducted on Monday at St Pancras Mortuary.'

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0208 785 8244 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.Two brothers who were kidnapped by a Mexican gang, have themselves become kidnappers after the ordeal.

Jonatan and Raymundo Maldonado-Salgado, the sons of then a wealthy Mexican horse trainer, were just 15 and 18 respectively when they taken by the cartel at gunpoint and beaten badly over four days until their eventual release in 2011.

The brothers, and their family, fled to the US after the horrific incident, the Denver Post reported.

Yet just a few years later, in 2016, for kidnapping the son of wealthy owner of a horse ranch in Commerce City, Colorado, in an almost identical plan to their own abduction.

Jonatan (left) and Raymundo Maldonado-Salgado (right), were taken at gunpoint and beaten badly over four days until their eventual release in 2011. A few years later, they became the kidnappers when they decided to abduct their own victim

On August 30, 2016, the brothers and fugitive Marco Cota-Tamaura, who they met in a bar and roped into the plot, followed their victim, identified only as A. F. into an adult store, where they pounced.

The trio, wearing ski masks, pulled out their guns, including Cota-Tamaura's AK-47, as the victim tried to hide behind the store's female clerk, the court heard.

The kidnappers, who pulled out the store's phone cables, dragged the victim to the truck. Cota-Tamaura hit him with the barrel of his gun, and placed a hood over his head.

They also stole the keys to the victim's car and drove it to his family's address as proof they had their son.

The court heard that Cota-Tamaura beat the victim over the next three days while the Maldonado-Salgado brothers negotiated with his father.

The brothers demanded $500,000 for the release of their prisoner, and warned the dad that of he called the police, they'd murder his entire family.

However, he did call the authorities and the FBI monitored their calls, and recorded the moment the brothers collected the $200,000 they finally agreed on with A. F's father.

They kidnapped their victim while he was visiting Christal's adult store in Lakewood

On September 5, 2016, SWAT teams hit the homes of the kidnappers who were arrested.

The role reversal from victim victim to kidnapper arose during the sentencing hearings of the brothers, for Raymundo, 24, in September and Jonatan, 21, in January.

'They were undoubtedly traumatized by being kidnapped. And then they turn around and do the same to somebody else,' Judge Jackson said during Jonatan's sentencing. 'Isn't that a little bizarre?'

After the brothers were kidnapped, the family had applied for asylum in El Pase. And while most were granted it, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement decided to send Raymundo, who was an adult, back to Mexico.

At his sentencing, attorney William James O'Donnell II said that the mishandling of the case by ICE agents may have been a factor in why his client decided to stage a kidnapping of his own, after he entered the country illegally.

The FBI were hunting for Cota-Tamuara in the wake of the kidnapping in 2016 (pictured)

Raymundo also blamed his crimes on drugs, and pleaded for mercy for his five-year-old daughter's sake. He was sentenced to 18 years in jail.

Jonatan, who broke down in tears at his sentencing as he pledged never to commit another crime, also blamed drugs and loyalty to his brother for the kidnapping.

He too asked for a lenient sentence, because of his son who was born while he was in jail.

Jonatan was sentenced to 12 years because he testified against his brother and Cota-Tamaura.

Hernando Aguilar-Banuelos, 32, who provided the apartment where the group held the kidnap victim, will be sentenced on March 27.

The shocking twist of fate has left psychologists questioning whether the brothers' own abductions could have been a catalyst for their crimes.

'Is their decision to kidnap someone a product of them being kidnapped? Maybe,' said Kim Gorgens, a clinical forensic psychologist told the Denver Post.

She said that victims of abuse can become desensitized to trauma, which could be related to their decision to abduct someone else in 2016.This is the disturbing moment a child soldier fighting for ISIS was captured by rebels in northern Syria.

The boy, who barely looks old enough to be a teenager, was filmed lying face-down in the dirt after a surprise ISIS attack on the village of al-Khuwain, near Idlib.

In the footage the boy is completely calm as he tells the anti-Assad rebels who captured him that he has been with ISIS for two years, and fought in Raqqa.

A child soldier fighting for ISIS was captured by Free Syrian Army rebels in the northern province of Idlib on Monday after a failed attack on their position

The boy does not even flinch as a rebel fighter approaches him from behind with his weapon hanging by his side.

'Are you going to shoot me?' He asks, according to a translation posted on Twitter by the BBC's Riam Dalati.

'Shoot him,' comes the response from one of the fighters before the video stops.

It is not known what became of the boy, though more footage that appeared on the Twitter account Northern Stork shows what appears to be the same boy alive and riding in the back of a truck with other prisoners.

It is unclear whether that video was shot before or after the boy was recorded laying on the floor.

In the footage the boy remain completely calm, even while asking his captors if he is going to be shot. He also says he has been fighting for two years

A second piece of footage shows what appears to be the same boy riding in a truck alongside other ISIS prisoners

The boy is believed to have been captured by the Free Syrian Army, which was formed in 2011 by a group of former Assad generals with the aim of toppling the dictator.

The Turkish-backed rebels are currently working with forces deployed by Recep Tayyip Erdogan in northern Syria to recapture villages seized by Kurdish troops.

Around 25,000 FSA troops were committed to the operation against the YPG, who were backed by the US as part of the Syrian Democratic Forces, earlier this year.

'The task of the Free Syrian Army is first to regain sixteen Arab towns and villages occupied by the foreign militias (YPG) with the help of the Russian air force,' Major Yasser Abdul Rahim told Reuters.

Forces loyal to Bashar al-Assad drove a pocket of ISIS resistance out of northern Hama province last week, allowing the fighters to move north toward Idlib, according to the Qasioun News Agency.

It was there that they launched a surprise attack on the FSA on Monday morning, leading to the child being captured.

Free Syrian Army rebels, who formed in 2011 with the goal of overthrowing Bashar al-Assad, have been fighting alongside Turkish forces in Idlib to recapture territory from the KurdsThey sat, one by one, at the damp Florida outpost of Fort Marion, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in St. Augustine  occupying, in something of a cruel twist, the oldest European masonry fort on a continent that had previously been only theirs. It was the summer of 1877, and more than 70 chiefs and warriors  Arapaho, Comanche, Cheyenne, Kiowa  had been forced by the US government to abandon the vastness of their beloved Great Plains for the confines of a crumbling military installation on a coastline they never knew existed.

They were leaders-turned-prisoners, pawns in the US encroachment upon native land and the civilization efforts of earnest officers. And they endured a further, rare indignity: they were fitted with tight caps over their heads, given only straws in their nostrils to breathe, then coated with plaster  the subjects of life masks meant to advance Indianology.

Now, more than 140 years later, those life masks serve as a stark reminder of a dark time in American history. Theyre no longer on display at the Smithsonian, as they once were; instead, theyre in storage both there and at the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard University, which houses a duplicate collection. The masks evoke a range of emotion from those who view them, and such sensitive items beg the question: What, really, is best to do with them?

Author Diane Glancys voice thickens as she recalls her first viewing of the Fort Marion masks, when she visited Harvard in 2005. She remembers walking up steps, waiting for large doors to be opened, then  as the lights came on  being confronted with 72 starkly life-like faces.

It was very moving, she tells DailyMail.com; she was particularly struck by the artistry of sculptor Clark Mills, whod been commissioned to make the masks. He knew what he was doing; he had craft  and you could see the faces. You could almost see the emotions, what they were thinking about as he made their cast  the tightness in the jaw or the defiance or fear or whatever.

This duplicate cast depicts Cheyenne warrior Making Medicine, who was one of more than 70 Native Americans whose features were molded in a 'life mask' process that involved fitting their heads with tight elastic caps, covering them with plaster and forcing them to breath through small straws fitted in their nostrils ( President and Fellows of Harvard College, Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, PM# 78-1-10/13859)

It was really difficult to have the mask made  because the whole face was covered, and there were little straws in the nostrils for breathing. You can imagine how claustrophobic that would be. After I was there, it took a little while to get over, because it was so consuming to see that reality of these faces.

She adds: It was almost like facing death to have your whole head covered and to be so helpless and to maybe be short of breath. And I dont know exactly how long it took for the plaster to harden  and then he had to take his chisel and crack it open into halves.

The collection included masks of several dozen Native American men, as well as a woman and child  and the cast of the man committed to civilizing them, Richard Henry Pratt. Lt. Pratt, who was often called captain instead of his actual rank, sat for the mask to prove that the process wasnt harmful. And hed been instrumental in getting the prisoners to the Florida coast in the first place.

Following the Civil War, America experienced vast migration into the Great Plains and further West as homesteaders, ranchers and miners sought their fortunes through lands heretofore occupied by Native American tribes. There were bloody attacks on both sides, and white settlers called upon the US government to protect them and fight against the Indian resistance. Amidst skirmishes and battles, the US military sought to wipe out the buffalo  the life source for Native Americans  and move the tribes onto reservations.

Pratt was tasked with investigating the alleged crimes of prisoners, though much of his documentation relied on hearsay, and identifying key agitators from amidst the tribes.

The best way to defeat a people is to remove their leaders, says Ms Glancy, who conducted extensive research for her 2014 book Fort Marion Prisoners and the Trauma of Native Education, which combines historical facts and the authors imaginings of the prisoners personal journeys.

Native American prisoners, who were taken from their the Great Plains and transported to Florida follow bloody fighting between tribes and white settlers moving West, are pictured at Fort Marion

Howling Wolf of the Southern Cheyenne was among the Fort Marion prisoners - singled out as particular agitators, many on charges stemming from hearsay

Lt Richard Henry Pratt was in charge of jailing the Native Americans in Florida and embraced a policy of assimilation and 'civilization,' popularizing the phrase 'Kill the Indian, save the man'

In March 1875, President Ulysses S. Grant decided that the ringleaders and such as have been guilty of crimes are to be selected to be sent for confinement to Florida  Pratt volunteered to accompany them and assume responsibility.

He had also formed the opinion that the chiefs and warriors were not savages, determining that civilization and assimilation were the best routes for the tribes. The journey east to Florida was something of a spectacle; many of the prisoners had never even seen a train before, let alone traveled in one, and many fell sick and depressed; one, Gray Beard, was shot in an attempted escape. Crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of the warriors at train stops after hearing sensational stories of rape, murder and mayhem.

But Pratt, who picked up his own wife and children along the way to bring them on the same train to Florida, wanted to improve relations with the prisoners and believed they should be treated with respect; his goal, however well-intentioned or misguided, was to convert them to the ways of the white man. It was Pratt who promoted the phrase and theory of Kill the Indian ... save the man. Prisoners were forced to cut their hair and subjected to rigorous inspection; they were urged to convert to Christianity and to learn Western occupations.

The prisoners settled somewhat at the fort, policing themselves, doing chores and making ledger drawings that provide great insight into their new lives. The hundreds of drawings are now known as Fort Marion Ledger Art and were sold to tourists by prisoners or given away to dignitaries and politicians; in addition, the prisoners would put on occasional for performances for tourists of tribal customs.

And the men, from different tribes and traditions, were were also petitioning to live independently or have their families brought to them.

In his 2014 book War Dance at Fort Marion: Plains Indian War Prisoners, author and professor Brad D. Lookingbill wrote: More than anything else, the prisoners were homesick. The loss of their wives, children, relatives and friends reinforced their despondency. Ironically, the bad feelings united the divided tribesmen, sparking an extraordinary intertribal council on June 9. Once they achieved consensus, they petitioned the federal government to bring their families to live with them. They desired to lead their people off the reservations and receive training to make a living.

The prisoners selected Kiowa member Sky Walker to represent them with a proposal likely aimed to appease their captors.

Kiowa warrior Lone Wolf, pictured with his wife Elta, was transported to Fort Marion by train with the other Native Americans; the journey was sensationalized in news reports and throngs of onlookers gathered at train stations to capture a glimpse of the prisoners

Some prisoners spent time making ledger drawings while imprisoned and sold the art to tourists; works such as The Bear Hunt, by Making Medicine, can be found in museum and private collections around the globe

Fort Marion - a damp military installation on the Florida coast and the oldest European masonry fort in North America, was completely foreign to the Native Americans, most of whom had never seen the ocean before

Author Diane Glancy viewed the duplicate collection of life masks at Harvard's Peabody Museum and conducted extensive research for her 2014 book Fort Marion Prisoners and the Trauma of Native Education

Lookingbill wrote: On behalf of their common cause, Sky Walker had said: We want to learn the ways of the white man. First we want our wives and children, and then we will go any place and settle down and learn to support ourselves as the white men do  We want to learn how to make corn and work the ground so we can make our own living, and we want to live in a house just as a white man. Take us to any part of the country and we will go like a man that is blindfolded knowing that you are ahead and no harm will come to us.

Despite some to-ing and fro-ing, their families were never brought to them at Fort Marion.

What did happen, however, was the creation of the life masks. It stemmed from a visit by Spencer F. Baird, a zoologist and assistant secretary at the Smithsonian Institute, Lookingbill wrote. He took the prisoners on an excavation of a tribal site outside of St. Augustine, sending their findings back to Washington DC for display at the museum.

After his return to the capital, Baird wrote to Pratt in May 1877 and asked whether the lieutenant could convince the prisoners to participate in the life mask project, suggesting that Pratt himself have a cast made to demonstrate that the process was safe.

Once Pratt had agreed, Baird wrote to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Lookingbill wrote. He requested permission to study the great variety of physiognomy among the different tribes represented at the prison and to examine their physical features. He believed that a series of face casts in plaster or metal would be an extremely interesting contribution to Indianology. In particular, the casts would provide molds for the faces of the mannequins appearing in Smithsonian exhibitions.

According to Pratt, the prisoners readily agreed and his own life mask amused them, fostering goodwill. But there is no firsthand record from prisoners themselves about their thoughts on the process. The late Cheyenne chief and tribal historian John Sipes offered different accounts passed down from his great-great-great grandparents, Medicine Water and Mo-Chi, who were imprisoned at Fort Marion.

Pratt was a manipulative man, Sipes wife, Dolores Subia BigFoot, told Topic.com last year. They were coerced to sit for those masks. Their spirits were trapped in those masks.

She and her husband traveled to the Peabody Museum at Harvard in 2007 to visit the collection of masks, accompanied by other descendants. The relatives left offerings such as beadwork, nylon, sage and a pipe. The offerings remain in storage at the Peabody, next to the respective masks.

During the 2007 trip, descendants staged a drum processional and held a cleansing ceremony to begin the process of releasing them, and all those who are still imprisoned, BigFoot told Topic.com.

The Fort Marion prisoners were released after three years and given a choice: they could return to Indian Territory or continue education in East Coast Schools. About two-thirds of the prisoners went back West and one-third pursued further education.

Some of them would go back to the reservation and be left out of their own community, Ms Glancy tells DailyMail.com. Some would try to find work in the world, the new world that had come, and couldnt, so they were left out actually of both worlds.

Descendants of the prisoners still visit the Peabody museum, says curator Diane Loren, estimating that they come once or twice a year and are welcome to leave offerings.

The casts are all together on shelves in storage; under the request of some descendant communities, they all have their names located with the cast  so the name of the individual and the community from which he or she was from, Ms Loren tells DailyMail.com.

The collection can also be viewed by students, who are taken into the storage area in seminar-size groups by professors or museum staff who explain the provenance of the casts and the prisoners history.

We kind of have this moment of silence when we walk into that kind of space, because we know were seeing something thats important, she says, adding: Respectful silence.

A lot of students, American students, dont know about this treatment of Native Americans, assimilation that happened, she says. The casts really capture that moment.

A family of Plains Indians transport their possessions in 1989; the US government pursued a campaign of confining tribes to reservations; those imprisoned at Fort Marion spent three years in Florida before being offered a choice to return to the Great Plains or pursue further education on the East Coast

Sculptor Clark Mills, left, created the life masks of the Fort Marion prisoners; President Ulysses S. Grant, right, ordered in 1875 for the prisoners be sent to 'confinement in Florida'

Diane Loren, a curator at Harvard's Peabody Museum, says descendants of Fort Marion prisoners are welcome to visit the collection in storage and leave offerings; she tells DailyMail.com: 'Its hard to talk about this really in-depth and nuanced story'

She tells DailyMail.com: Its hard to talk about this really in-depth and nuanced story.

Its this really disturbing  I wouldnt say disturbing, but troubling  time period in American history. But the American government was doing this. They were taking prisoners of war and bringing them to Florida and putting them through the process of assimilation, cutting their hair, forcing them to speak English, making them become Christian  so really a shift in who they would be.

She adds: You have this collection that came out of this really troubling history; how do you care for it? How do you be the best storyteller?

While the masks are now in storage, she says, that could change down the line  though there are concerns, both of sensitivity and practicality, that come along with potentially exhibiting them.

How do we do the best job possible and tell this story in an exhibit space, when people are going through quickly and maybe dont have the time? she tells DailyMail.com. It deserves a little bit more discussion.

Ms BigFoot, for one, told Topic.com that she would want her ancestors masks back.

But there is a question here that is not resolved for us either: where would they live? Or is this something we would need to bury? she said.

Ms Glancy, for one, would like to see at least a few of the masks made available for public viewing, perhaps at or near Fort Marion itself  but she, too, acknowledges the difficulties.

What do you do with a very sensitive part of history? asks the author, who is of Cherokee descent herself.

Her own viewing experience was so powerful that it set her on the journey to remember the prisoners and humanize them in her book.

If youve gone to the dentist and had a cast made of your teeth, you know how that feels  when you cant breathe through your mouth, she tells DailyMail.com. So I had experienced that, and just wondering what it was like  so I wrote from their point of view of what it was like.

I believe the past needs voice  parts of the past that have not been told or spoken about, she says, adding: The Native American still is invisible.After top staff members participated in a book that trashed him, President Donald Trump has agreed to an interview with Jeanine Pirro for what is set to be a much cushier treatment.

Pirro, who has been a vigorous Trump defender on her 'Justice with Judge Jeanine' show on Fox News, has talked about a book project that would counter the scathing Trump portrayal in Michael Wolff's 'Fire and Fury,' the New York Times reported.

Trump has agreed to be interviewed by Pirro for the project, a source told the paper.

In doing so, he will be taking a cue from multiple White House staffers who cooperated with Wolff in his book, which eviscerated Trump and portrayed him as disconnected and incompetent.

Jeanine Pirro arrives for meetings with US President-elect Donald Trump at Trump Tower on January 3, 2017 in New York. Trump has agreed to sit for an interview with her for her forthcoming book, according to a report

Wolff writes that he took up 'something like a semipermanent seat on a couch in the West Wing' after seeking formal access to the White House. He writes that Trump 'encouraged this idea.'

Trump shot back after publication that he authorized 'Zero access' for the book.

Pirro, in a statement issued through Fox, said: 'My upcoming book is not a direct response to Fire and Fury.' But administration officials said West Wing advisors had taken to referring to it as 'No Fire, No Fury.'

Pirro currently has a forthcoming book listed on Amazon under the title ' Liars, Leakers and Liberals.'

President Donald Trump looks at a book given to him by a North Korean defector in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, DC on February 2, 2018

In a recent monologue on her show, she defended Trump as well as chief of staff John Kelly in the situation of resigned White House staff secretary Rob Porter, who left his post after the Daily Mail revealed his first and second wife accused him of abuse.

Pirro called Porter 'cunning and clever' and said people should 'blame the batterer,' while describing Kelly as acting forcefully, despite reports he and other aides knew about abuse allegations for months.

The Pirro Book is being described inside the White House as 'No Fire, No Fury'

Jeanine Pirro speaking at the American Conservative Union's 2017 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC)

Pirro has a forthcoming book called 'Liars, Leakers, and Liberals,' though it could be reworked to feature a Trump interview

Jeanine Pirro attends President Trump's one year anniversary with over 800 guests at the winter White House at Mar-a-Lago on January 18, 2018 in Palm Beach, Florida

You want to stop a four-star general who is running the White House, who believes in chain of command, who makes a decision within forty minutes, because you hate Donald Trump? Find another scapegoat. You might want to look at the last president,' Pirro said.

Trump tweeted in January after the release of Wolff's book: '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!'

The moniker was a dig at former chief White House strategist Steve Bannon, who cooperated with Wolff and gave on-record interviews.Students and staff at the Headingley campus of Leeds Beckett University have been warned to stay indoors while David Riley, 36, remained on the loose

A man who was spotted brandishing an axe near a Leeds university campus which resulted in it being put on lockdown has today been named by police.

Students and staff at the Headingley campus of Leeds Beckett University were warned to stay indoors while David Riley, 36, remained on the loose.

Police are tracking the driver who fled a car crash on Saturday evening and was thought to be carrying an axe, after dozens of callers reported seeing the man fleeing the scene of a busy junction after apparently crashing a van.

Riley is described as white, 5ft 8ins tall, and of stocky build with a black beard.

He has a scar across his left eyebrow and was last seen wearing a light-coloured jacket, jeans and a flat cap.

He was reported to have been seen close to the Arndale Centre in Headingley a short time later, where he is believed to have used the axe to free a bicycle after abandoning the van close by.

The Ford Transit van had gone missing from the scene with reports that the people inside had been threatened by the axe-wielding man, according to Leeds Live.

Detective Inspector Richard Holmes, of Leeds District CID, said: 'We have identified David Riley as being the suspect for these incidents and we have been carrying out extensive inquiries to trace and arrest him.

Armed police are still searching for an axeman in a student area of Leeds with members of the public warned not to approach him. Pictured: Leeds Beckett campus

Understood to be carrying a small axe, the man was thought to have been driving a van which was involved in a collision with three other vehicles at a busy junction

'We are now at a point where we need to appeal for information from the public to assist us in finding him.

'We would like to hear from anyone who has seen him since these incidents on Saturday or who has any information that could assist.

'While we don't believe he presents any immediate ongoing danger to the public, we advise anyone who does see him not to approach him and to contact police immediately via 999.'

Witnesses who called the police described seeing the man carrying a small axe with him as he fled.

Students took to Twitter to discuss the wanted axeman, just a day after students from Leeds University, an older institution, were evacuated from their halls of residence

The search comes a day after students from the universitys Kirkstall Brewery accommodation were evacuated after a 'grenade type device' was found.

West Yorkshire Police officers found the device in halls of residence at around 2pm on February 8, responding to a tip off.

Army bomb specialists were called in while the students were evacuated, but they later confirmed it was an imitation.

Two deactivated firearms were also recovered from the flat.

Police made further enquiries and then arrested a 19-year-old man in Scunthorpe on suspicion of firearms offences. He remains in custody.However, sanguma, exactly the same concept as Satan, is stamped null and void.

No Christian (verifiably anyway) has seen the Trinity, angels, the intercession of the Saints or Satan yet they believe in their existence and control over the peaks and troughs of life.

This view defies logic because both Satan and sanguma are associated with evil and are on the same side of the coin.

PORT MORESBY - The Western worlds Satan and Papua New Guinean sanguma (sorcery) seem to be similar concepts but Western religious scholars dictate that the Trinity and the college of angels (including Satan) exists in the ether but sanguma does not.

The word Satan appears in the bible 59 times and is an umbrella term for evil. Likewise, sanguma is part and parcel of animism, a Melanesian worldview which refers to evil just as Satan does for the West.

So it seems sanguma is just a primitive myth of some poor black people in the far-flung islands of the Pacific while Satan is real because it was coined by the Greco-Romans in a civilised Europe blessed by Christendom.

Christianity came to New Guinea in the late 1800s but animism and belief in the supernatural, including sanguma, have been part and parcel of the Melanesian worldview since well before the birth of Jesus Christ.

In a bizarre twist, contemporary PNG society now sees sanguma as Satan and vice versa. In other words, PNG Christians now lightly accept Satan and sanguma as substitutes.

If you ask someone who recently killed a neighbour who was believed to be a sorcerer, the killer will arrogantly say we have killed someone who possessed the power of Satan.

You can see how the Western worlds Satan has had an influence on the way that modern Melanesians understand both sanguma and Satan.

Many people down historys pathway have lost their lives due to their belief in supernatural beings. In fact, Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, animism and the rest have been amongst the worst perpetrators of human misery and tragedy.

God can also be described as more of a villain than a saint. The bible tells stories of God as a figure who brings about much human suffering and disaster. Perhaps more than Satan. In history, religion is associated with so much wretchedness and misfortune.

Whichever way it is, Satan is the villain in Christianity as is sanguma in Melanesian animism.

Just like Christians, Melanesians belief in the existence of their dead relatives in an elevated rung of existence beyond life on earth. They also believe that evil powers, similar to those possessed by Satan, exist and influence events such as death and illness in people and animals.

Christianity enable people to genuflect before images of the Trinity and the saints. Melanesians similarly revere and appease tribal ancestors who died in years past.

In the Christian tradition, the 13th-century Catholic philosopher St Thomas Aquinas offered five logical arguments to prove the existence of God.

Melanesians can also provide convincing proof of sangumas existence. But the West will not listen, while Aquinas was made a saint.

Analysing these inconsistencies given to us by the cultural hegemony of the West, we see no surety but intolerable bias and illogic.

Both the Wests Satan and PNGs sanguma should not exist in the ether or the minds eye. However, if the Wests Satan and college of supernatural beings exist than logic calls for sanguma to also exist.

Melanesians cannot be expected to be like a sponge, absorbing any liquid we are placed into. We have to think and act calculatedly like Plato and Aristotle and the other sharp thinkers of human history.

As for me, sanguma only exists in the consciousness of Melanesians just like Satan or Dracula do to Anglo-Saxons.

It is about time both Satan and sanguma and other supernatural forces were erased from both the pulpits and the minds eye.

Perhaps only then will we be able to put a halt to a continuing chain of human tragedy.Advertisement

After the First World War came to an end, the backwater town of Los Angeles was growing into a shimmering metropolis of the future.

But its beautiful boulevards and glamorous homes did not tell the whole story of the City of Angels during the expansion of the twentieth century.

Underneath the gorgeous facade was a darkness concealing gruesome murders, savage criminal gangs, bogus religions, crazy cults and outrageous corruption.

It also included the notorious Black Dahlia murder, when 22-year-old Elizabeth Short was found brutally killed in the Leimert Park neighborhood of the city in 1947.

All that and more has been explored in a collection of rare contemporary photographs assembled by the author Jim Heimann, whose book - Dark City: The Real Los Angeles Noir - is packed with horror stories from LA between the 1920s and 1950s.

Heimann, an executive editor for art book publisher Taschen as well as an anthropologist and historian, has attempted to 'uncover a city crawling with murder and mayhem'.

The book also focuses on the way in which infamous crimes were so memorably sensationalized by an insatiable tabloid press - and later turned into pulp fiction novels and film noir movies.

Left: James 'Two Gun' Davis was the emblem of LA police corruption. He is pictured in 1937. Right: The actress Betty Rowland reclines on a sofa backstage at the Follies, around 1938. After the First World War came to an end, the backwater town of Los Angeles was growing into a shimmering metropolis of the future. But its beautiful boulevards and glamorous homes did not tell the whole story of the City of Angels during the expansion of the twentieth century

The bloody evidence of a murder spree awaits processing at police headquarters, around 1930. Underneath the city's gorgeous facade was a darkness concealing gruesome murders, savage criminal gangs, bogus religions and outrageous corruption

A bartender bites the dust in a Hollywood robbery gone awry, around 1940. The festering underbelly of the city has been explored in a collection of rare contemporary photographs collected by the author Jim Heimann, whose book - Dark City: The Real Los Angeles Noir - is packed with horror stories from LA between the 1920s and 1950s

The victim of a mad butcher, a sex and torture victim reveals her aggressors handiwork, around 1938. The book's author, an executive editor for art book publisher Taschen as well as an anthropologist and historian, has attempted to 'uncover a city crawling with murder and mayhem'

Two prospective yardbirds are kept in check by a downtown police officer, around 1955. The book also focuses on the way in which infamous crimes were so memorably sensationalized by an insatiable tabloid press - and later turned into pulp fiction novels and film noir movies

Left: A reluctant suspect winces as a police officer takes things into his own hands, around 1934. Right: Detectives hover over the body of actress Carole Landis, who, after a roller-coaster life of depression and failed marriages, overdosed on Seconal, 1948

A bevy of hookers cover up after a vice squad raid at the Carolina Pines Restaurant on Melrose Avenue, around 1957. LA's dark side inspired a host of now-legendary movies in the film noir genre, including The Big Sleep (1946), Double Indemnity (1944) and Sunset Boulevard (1950)Service members in the US military are now benefiting from acupuncture that provides them with immediate relief for acute and chronic pain.

Battlefield acupuncture (BFA) is one of the most popular forms of therapy used in the military.

Not only does it alleviate pain, but it is also being used to fight opioid abuse among the ranks.

Dr Richard Niemtzow, who developed BFA in 2001, told the Military Times that the therapy is so popular because it's simple to administer and easily transportable.

Service members in the military are now benefiting from acupuncture that provides them with immediate relief for acute and chronic pain. Dr Richard Niemtzow (right), chief of the Air Force Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine Center, performs battlefield acupuncture on a patient

Battlefield acupuncture (BFA) is one of the most popular forms of therapy used in the military. Not only does it alleviate pain, but it is also being used to fight opioid abuse among the ranks. BFA involves a small needle which is inserted into the ear

Soldiers, who are treated using BFA, can also continued to participate, unimpaired, in work and life.

'They don't have to wait hours for medications to take maximal effect or endure side effects, like drowsiness or allergic reactions, of common pain medications,' Air Force Col Lynda Vu told the Times.

According to Vu, who recently administered BFA while deployed in Qatar, the treatment 'allows personnel to go back to the fight with minimal impact to continuing mission operations'.

Believe it or not, those soldiers who choose to use BFA can still fly aircraft, unlike those who use opiates, according to Vu.

The one challenge she faces is a lack of BFA-trained physicians on deployment, she told the Times.

Vu said the treatment 'requires either training prior to deployment or having a trained instructor administer the provider BFA course in the deployed location'

Acupuncture, which derived from ancient Chinese medicine about 8,000 years ago, is often used to relieve various kinds of pain, from low back pain to osteoarthritis and migraines.

Tradition says it works by unblocking the flow of 'qi' along invisible energy channels called meridians.

BFA involves a small needle which is inserted into the ear. It has a 'central effect' on the nervous system and the cingulate gyrus, an area of the brain that processes pain, Niemtzow, who is the director of the U.S. Air Force Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine Center at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, told the Times.

'The insertion of the needle into the ear seems to disrupt this process,' said Niemtzow, preventing the pain from surfacing.

The treatment 'allows personnel to go back to the fight with minimal impact to continuing mission operations'. Believe it or not, those soldiers who choose to use BFA can still fly aircraft, unlike those who use opiates. Dr. Richard Niemtzow demonstrates acupuncture on a patient

'There's an excellent possibility that the pain will be successfully treated during the first encounter with a patient,' said Niemtzow, adding there is an 80 per cent efficacy.

One dosage provides relief that lasts for several days, and patients cannot grow dependent on it or require higher doses, as with opioids.

Side effects are rare, but include irritation, infection, or bleeding.

Dr. Stephen Burns, chief of the Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine Center, told the Times that there are cases when patients may 'feel a little bit of lightheadedness, or transiently feel a little relaxed or giggly. But that's a pleasant side effect'.

Niemtzow hopes that BFA can reduce the use of opioid in the military.

'You have a patient who is on, say 10, 15, 20 medications. Some of them are muscle relaxants, some are pain medications, some are sleeping agents, some are anti-anxiety agents,' said Burns.

'Adding the BFA often reduces the pain and reduces the need for some of the medications.'

While BFA has helped numerous soldiers, it may not work on every patient and it is not considered a 'cure-all'.The United States is urging allied nations to help deal with the growing number of foreign fighters that are being held by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, saying the militants should be turned over to face justice in their home countries.

US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis told reporters as he headed to Rome to meet with 13 of his coalition counterparts that the battle to eradicate ISIS was ongoing.

'The fight is not over,' Mattis said.

Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh, the remaining members of the notorious execution group nicknamed 'The Beatles' were detained by US-allied Kurdish militia fighters in January and are among the thousands of jihadis awaiting their fate.

Along with Mohammed Emwazi - the now-dead killer nicknamed Jihadi John - and jailed Aine Davis, they were part of a group named after the '60s band because of their English accents.

The four Londoners were linked to a string of hostage murders in Iraq and Syria during the bloody Islamist uprising.

Four Londoners including Mohammed Emwazi (pictured) were linked to a string of hostage murders in Iraq and Syria during the bloody Islamist uprising

US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis (pictured, center) told reporters as he headed to Rome to meet with 13 of his coalition counterparts that the battle to eradicate ISIS was ongoing. He is pictured today having landed in Italy

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis is expected to raise the issue during a meeting in Rome tomorrow with other members of the coalition that is fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria.

The SDF is currently holding thousands of IS detainees, including hundreds of foreign fighters from a number of nations.

The issue became more prominent in recent days, after the announcement that the SDF had captured Kotey and Elsheikh.

US officials have said putting the two in the Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, detention facility is not an option, but British leaders have suggested they don't want the two men returned to Britain.

'We're working with the coalition on foreign fighter detainees, and generally expect these detainees to return to their country of origin for disposition,' said Kathryn Wheelbarger, the principal deputy assistant defense secretary for international security affairs.

'Defense ministers have the obligation and the opportunity to really explain to their other ministers or their other Cabinet officials just the importance to the mission, to the campaign, to make sure that there's an answer to this problem.'

US officials have said putting the two in the Guantanamo Bay (pictured), Cuba, detention facility is not an option, but British leaders have suggested they don't want the two men returned to Britain

Speaking to reporters traveling with Mattis to Europe, Wheelbarger said the key goal is to keep the fighters off the battlefield and unable to travel to other cities.

'The capacity problem is very real,' Wheelbarger said, noting that at one point the SDF was capturing as many as 40 militants a day.

'Success in the campaign means you get more people off the battlefield. ... These facilities are eventually going to be full.'

US officials have interrogated the captured British jihadis, who were part of the ISIS cell that captured, tortured and beheaded more than two dozen hostages, including American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, and American aid worker Peter Kassig.

Hundreds of foreign citizens fought alongside IS as it took control of large parts of Syria, raising concerns that they will bring terrorism with them if they ever return home.

Beheadings, electrocutions, crucifixionsthe reign of the west London Jihadists who grew up listening to the Spice Girls and watching Queens Park Rangers FC who became known as the Beatles Mohammed Emwazi aka Jihadi John Mohammed Emwazi aka Jihadi John The British ISIS militant, whose real name was Mohammed Emwazi, carried out a number of beheadings of Western hostages in Syria. He was killed in a U.S drone strike in 2015. The son of a Kuwaiti minicab driver, young Emwazi arrived in Britain speaking only a few words of English, and appeared more interested in football than in Islam. His role as Islamic State's sadistic butcher was a far cry from the football-mad schoolboy who moved to Britain from Kuwait with his parents in 1993. He became the face of British terrorism after beheading American video journalist James Foley and Steven Sotloff, as well as RAF aircraft engineer David Haines. Alan Henning was second Briton and the fourth Westerner to be beheaded on video by the terrorists. Alexanda Kotey Alexanda Kotey Alexanda Kotey, 32, from Shepherds Bush, is said to have been part of a Gaza aid convoy organised by former MP George Galloway. Kotey's family today said they were 'deeply distressed' at claims he was part of Emwazi's murderous group - and confirmed they have not seen him 'for a number of years'. There are unconfirmed reports that he was killed in Syria last summer. Father of two Kotey, a QPR fan, is believed to have been one of the terror group's key recruiters and helped them radicalise young men from London. He used to be a member of the Greek Orthodox Church but is said to have converted to Islam in his teens. El Shafee Elsheikh El Shafee Elsheikh El Shafee Elsheikh, 29, was detained in January by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces alongside Alexanda Kotey, 34, a fellow member of the brutal execution squad. Elsheikh other brother, Mahmoud, also adopted a fundamentalist version of Islam and was killed in 2015 fighting near Tikrit in Iraq. Both Elsheikh's parents fled the civil war in Sudan in the 1990s - where they were members of the Communist Party - but the father, poet Rashid Sidahmed Elsheikh, left the family when Elsheikh was just seven years old As a young man, Elsheikh enjoyed working on bikes and motorcycles in the family's garden, and went on to study mechanical engineering at Acton College. The Former child refugee Elsheikh was a big Spice Girls fan from White City in west London, where he supported the local team QPR. Aine Davis Aine Davis The fourth so called 'Beatle', Aine Davis, originally from Hammersmith, travelled to Syria to become an ISIS guard. Prior to fleeing the UK, Davis was convicted six times for possessing cannabis and was also heavily involved in gang circles, where he was known as 'Biggz.' The gangster worked as a gun runner, selling handguns before the weapons factory he worked for was busted by police. Davis is thought to have converted to Islam shortly after being jailed in the UK in 2006 for possessing a firearm. The son of a dinner lady and a John Lewis shopworker, he took the name Hamza and travelled the Middle East. Advertisement

The legal issues relating to the captured terrorists are daunting.

Most nations, including the US, would be unwilling to take back detainees unless they have the evidence to prosecute them, and that often is difficult to collect in such battlefield captures.

While officials say that Guantanamo is not a viable option for the two British insurgents, questions remain about any potential use of the facility.

President Donald Trump issued an executive order last month that keeps the prison open, prompting speculation that additional detainees could be brought in.

A number of allies, however, have openly criticized the use of Guantanamo, where detainees have been held for years without trial.

And experts have argued that the facility serves as a recruiting tool for extremist groups.

Former Islamic State hostages and families of the group's victims are saying that Elsheikh and Kotey should be brought to trial.

French journalist Nicolas Henin, who was held by the men and their comrades for 10 months, said he wants justice, and that the men should be tried in Britain, not shipped to Guantanamo Bay, because revenge will just breed more violence.

'What I'm looking for is justice and Guantanamo is a denial of justice,' he said.

Wheelbarger said the detainee problem is just one of the issues the defense ministers will discuss during the meeting.

The Islamic State group has been largely defeated in Iraq and is near destruction in Syria, where pockets of insurgents still operate along the Euphrates River, near the Iraq border and in other scattered locations.

As a result, the coalition is shifting from an emphasis on combat operations to stabilization.

'There are numerous questions about what's next,' said Mattis.

He said that will include ensuring that explosive devices are found and eliminated, getting schools re-opened and making sure clean water is available.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he has been discussing with the United States the possibility of Israel annexing Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, drawing swift condemnation from Palestinian leaders.

Netanyahu did not say how far discussions had gone on annexing some of the land that the Palestinians want for a future state - a move that would be certain to meet strong international opposition.

'On the subject of applying sovereignty, I can say that I have been talking to the Americans about it for some time,' Netanyahu told a closed-door meeting of his right-wing Likud party's legislators on Monday, according to the party's spokesman.

Netanyahu was referring to applying Israeli law to the settlements, a step tantamount to annexation. They are currently under the jurisdiction of Israel's military, which has occupied the West Bank since the 1967 war.

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (pictured) said he has been discussing with the United States the possibility of Israel annexing Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank

There was no immediate confirmation from the White House on whether discussions on the subject had been held and a senior Israeli official said Netanyahu had not made a specific annexation proposal to Washington.

Some commentators suggested Netanyahu's remarks to Likud might have been a move to placate right-wingers in his cabinet rather than a concrete plan.

But the statement stoked Palestinian anger, already high over US President Donald Trump's announcement on December 6 that the United States recognises Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

Nabil Abu Rdainah, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, said any annexation would 'destroy all efforts to try and save the peace process'.

'No-one has the right to discuss the situation of the occupied Palestinian lands,' Abu Rdainah said from Moscow, where Abbas was holding talks with President Vladimir Putin amid reports they may discuss new options for Middle East mediation.

Most countries regard Israel's settlements as illegal. Israel disputes this.

The statement stoked Palestinian anger, already high over Donald Trump's announcement on December 6 that the United States recognises Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Pictured, Trump in Jerusalem in May last year

The Likud spokesman did not mention a timeframe for an annexation or go into further details on the U.S. discussions. He quoted Netanyahu as telling the lawmakers that any change in the settlements' status must first be coordinated, 'as much as possible' with the United States, Israel's main ally.

A senior Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, later said in a statement that Netanyahu had not presented the United States with specific annexation proposals 'and anyway the U.S. has not expressed its agreement to the proposals'.

'Israel updated the Americans about different proposals being raised at the Knesset and the U.S. expressed its clear position that it wishes to advance President Trump's peace plan,' a statement from Netanyahu's office said.

An Israel Radio political affairs commentator described Netanyahu's comments as largely ideological in nature and said it was unlikely any practical steps would be taken in the near future.

The Trump administration has been less critical than the Obama White House of Israeli settlement policy. Pictured, Trump on Monday

Netanyahu's comments to the legislators appeared, at least in part, to be an attempt to soften any political fallout within Likud over his decision on Sunday to block a bill proposed by several right-wing lawmakers to annex settlements.

A source at the prime minister's office said on Sunday the bill was blocked in order to give diplomatic efforts more of a chance.

The Trump administration has been less critical than the Obama White House of Israeli settlement policy. But in an interview published on Sunday in Israel Hayom, a pro-Netanyahu newspaper, Trump urged Israel to tread cautiously.

'The settlements are something that very much complicates and always have complicated making peace, so I think Israel has to be very careful with the settlements,' Trump said.

Trump also voiced doubts about Palestinian and Israeli commitment to making peace.

Asked when he would unveil a promised new peace plan, Trump said: 'We are going to see what goes on. Right now, I would say the Palestinians are not looking to make peace, they are not looking to make peace. And I am not necessarily sure that Israel is looking to make peace.'

U.S.-brokered peace talks collapsed in 2014, with the settlement issue one of the main factors behind their failure. (Additional reporting by Ali Sawafta in Ramallah and Maayan Lubell in Jerusalem; Editing by Andrew Heavens)When Sirbastion the albino kangaroo was rescued from his mother's pouch as a joey he weighed just 800g.

But thanks to his voracious appetite and the care of animal workers in Western Australia, he is now a fit, healthy, and fully-grown adult.

Video captured by workers at GG Wildlife Rescue Inc shows just how Sirbastion grew so strong, as he chomps down on one of his favourite treats - a banana.

Sirbastion, an albino kangaroo, was rescued from his dead mother's pouch weighing just 800g but has now grown into a fully sized adult

Workers at GG Wildlife Rescue Inc showed off Sirbastion's voracious appetite as he tucked into one of his favourite treats - a banana

Keeper Michelle Jones recorded the footage, and says it is not just fruit that whets Sirbastion's appetite.

She said: 'He loves his muesli, his cuddles and if he can get it he will steal one of the younger joeys milk bottles in the morning and drink it like he was young again - we don't mind.'

Sirbastion was brought to the rescue centre five years ago after being rescued from his dead mother's pouch at just a few weeks old.

Jones explained that, while he is now fully fit, his albinism means he would be unlikely to survive back in the wild and therefore cannot be released.

Michelle Jones, who cares for Sirbastion, says he cannot be released back into the wild because he would be unlikely to survive because of his albinism

Pictured left is Sirbastion as a joey while being nursed back to health, and right as he appears today at five years old

'He lacks the natural camouflage colours and would not fit in sadly,' she said.

Jones added: 'He is very attached to me and the blind kangaroo Ali who is 10 years old and shares his huge home.

'I love watching them eat, especially when they are enjoying a treat like the banana.

'GG Wildlife Rescue Inc. was founded in 2012 with the idea to help fund a 24 hour wildlife rescue & rehabilitation, this includes all reptiles and birds

'We do our rescues for the love of the animals & the satisfaction in helping them: Rescue, Rehabilitate & Release is the goal.'Ukip's party chairman Paul Oakden dramatically quit his post tonight but insisted to party members it was not an effort to force out Henry Bolton as leader.

In an email to members, Mr Oakden said he would go regardless of the outcome of Saturday's extraordinary general meeting.

He said he had resigned 'voluntarily' at the end of January and insisted he remained committed to Ukip, which has sunk in the polls and been mired in chaos since the referendum.

The email is Mr Oakden's second missive today after earlier having to assure members there had not been a 'coup' in Ukip after he was wrongly named as 'interim leader' in a message over the weekend.

Saturday's gathering of party members in Birmingham will decide whether Mr Bolton keeps his job after he left wife and children for an affair with a 25-year-old glamour model.

Ukip's party chairman Paul Oakden dramatically quit his post tonight but insisted to party members it was not an effort to force out Henry Bolton as leader

Mr Bolton lost a vote of no confidence among senior party figures last month despite warnings triggering another leadership contest could bankrupt Ukip.

Despite saying he would leave his job regardless of the vote on Saturday, Mr Oakden hinted he could contest any future race for leader.

He said: 'I remain a committed member of UKIP, and steadfast in my view that without us, there is little hope of our country's independence being delivered back into the hands of her people.

'In standing down, I hope to allow myself the flexibility to consider other ways in which I might continue to serve you  the most remarkable, and admirable, political membership in Britain today.'

Mr Bolton yesterday made clear he is back with model ex-girlfriend Jo Marney - and warned that the party could be over if he is sacked at an emergency meeting next weekend.

Mr Bolton admitted there were still 'strong affections' with Miss Marney despite previously insisting he had ended their relationship after racist messages surfaced.

He also refused to challenge statements that Miss Marney was his girlfriend, after they were spotted out together last week.

The defiant stance, in an appearance on the BBC's Andrew Marr show, came as Mr Bolton fights to stay as leader after most of the party's senior members quit their posts in protest.

In an appearance on the BBC's Andrew Marr show, Mr Bolton admitted there were still 'strong affections' with Jo Marney

Mr Bolton, 54, claimed to have dumped the 25 year-old as he scrambled to try to salvage his political career - but has been spotted out several times with her since the scandal.

He was seen at a bar in Folkestone last week with the ex glamour model, who he left his wife and young children for over Christmas.

Asked today whether he was 'in love' with Miss Marney, Mr Bolton said: 'There are strong affections for her, yes.'

Challenged that he had previously promised to end the relationship with Miss Marney, Mr Bolton said that was 'not the point'.

On Saturday Mr Bolton, a former Army officer will be hauled in for a crunch meeting that will decided if he stays on as leader or is booted out.

But he warned that ejecting him would plunge the party into chaos and potentially end it as a political force.

Mr Bolton admitted there had been a 'problem with my judgment around that whole episode' around Miss Marney, but added: 'The point is that actually we are off, and we have been for a very long time, off the field in terms of the debate on leaving the European Union.

'What we should be doing is shaping the future of this country's independence, and that's what we should be focusing on, not whether or not somebody, way before I met them, actually sent private messages that actually had nothing to do with me and I had no means of knowing about.'

Mr Bolton also claimed that Miss Marney had been harshly treated and there was 'context' to her messaged that meant they were not as offensive - suggesting that would be revealed in the course of this week.

Ukip leader Henry Bolton has been spotted out with his glamour model girlfriend Jo Marney - despite insisting he has dumped her to cling on to his job (file pic)

Mr Bolton left his wife Tatiana Smurova, 42, and young children for Miss Marney over the Christmas break.

Within days of going public with the affair it emerged that she had sent racist messages about Prince Harry's fiance Meghan Markle.

Ms Marney said Prince Harry's 'black American' fiancee will 'taint' the Royal Family with 'her seed' and pave the way for a 'black king'.

Ms Marney also says that she would never have sex with 'a n***o' because they are 'ugly'.

Former Ukip leadership candidate Ben Walker said: 'His refusal to stop seeing this woman angers party activists and gives fuel to our detractors that UKIP is a racist party. People have said they are afraid to canvass for the party now because they fear being called racists and even being attacked.

'Mr Bolton called me a dissenter for disagreeing with him, his terrible leadership and this unacceptable relationship. I view myself as more of a whistleblower.'

'Mr Bolton needs to remember that this is supposed to be a political party and not the TA.'Flt Lt Cunningham died on November 8, 2011

A leading ejector seat manufacturer - prosecuted after the death of a member of the Red Arrows - put many pilots at risk over a lengthy period, a court heard.

Flight Lieutenant Sean Cunningham was fatally injured after being ejected from his Hawk T1 aircraft while on the ground at RAF Scampton, Lincolnshire, on November 8, 2011.

The parachute on the Mark 10B ejector seat did not deploy, and the South African-born airman fell 200ft before he later died in hospital.

Martin-Baker Aircraft Company Ltd admitted failing to ensure the safety of non-employees in connection with the 35-year-old's death at a hearing on January 22.

On Monday, Lincoln Crown Court heard how the Middlesex-based company has already agreed to pay 550,000 in prosecution costs as a result of the guilty plea.

Although the company pleaded guilty, it disputes some of the allegations made by the prosecution.

Opening the case against the firm, prosecutor Rex Tedd QC said: 'The defendant admits that the breach of duty was a substantial or significant cause of the death of Flight Lieutenant Sean Cunningham.'

Mr Tedd said the company had a duty to 'ensure none of the pilots' were exposed to a health and safety risk.

He continued: 'The defendant accepts that the risk persisted for a long period.

'If the pilot was ejected from the Hawk aircraft, two shackles would not release from one another and would jam together and the main parachute would not deploy.

'The pilot would be several hundred feet in the air and there could only be one result of that, and that is the pilot's death.'

In a statement released after the guilty plea, the company said: 'It should be noted that this was an isolated failure relating to the tightening of a nut during maintenance procedures conducted by RAF Aerobatic Team (RAFAT) mechanics.'

But the prosecution claims Martin-Baker Aircraft Company's position that Flt Lt Cunningham's death was an isolated incident is 'not accurate'.

Mr Tedd added: 'There was a risk to many pilots over a lengthy period. The defendant's failure was anything but isolated.

'Each pilot should have complete confidence in the ejector seat.'

However, the court heard how the company had invented the ejector seat and 'undoubtedly saved the lives of many pilots'.

The firm describes itself on its website as a family-run business and 'the world leader in the design and manufacture of ejection and crashworthy seats for nearly 70 years'.

The main parachute on the Mk 10 Martin Baker seat, which should have saved his life, failed to deploy and he suffered multiple injuries

A hearing last month heard Flt Lt Cunningham, who served with the RAF's 617 'Dambusters' Squadron, was carrying out pre-flight checks on his Hawk T1 aircraft when the ejector seat engaged suddenly.

The Iraq War veteran, who served several tours, smashed through the canopy and was hurled into the air at the aerobatics team's base at RAF Scampton, near Lincoln.

The main parachute on the Mk 10 Martin Baker seat, which should have saved his life, failed to deploy and he crashed to the ground.

On January 22, at Lincolnshire Crown Court, s tatutory director of ejector seat manufacturer Martin-Baker Aircraft Ltd, John Martin, pleaded guilty on behalf of the company at to Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Flt Lt Cunningham's inquest in 2014 heard that to trigger the 1960s ejector seat pilots must pull the firing handle - fitted between their legs - sharply upwards.

But tests since the tragedy revealed that if the handle was 'locked' in a certain position, a slight downward pressure could unexpectedly launch the ejector seat, the inquest was told.

It was claimed that dangers with the ejector seat were known by manufacturers but never passed on to the Ministry of Defence.

Born in Johannesburg, Flt Lt Cunningham landed the job after a career in the forces which had seen him complete several tours of Iraq.

He joined the RAF in 2000 and after completing training was based with 617 'The Dambusters' Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland.

Flight Lieutenant Sean Cunningham's parents, Jim and Monika, and sister, Nicky Cunningham, arrive at Lincoln Crown Court today

The Red Arrows Hawk T1 jet showing its smashed canopy being examined by investigators at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire November 9, 2011

Over the next three years, Flt Lt Cunningham was involved in operations in Iraq, flying close air support missions for coalition ground forces.

He started with the Red Arrows in 2010 but was killed in November 2011, aged 35.

In a tribute following his death, his father Jim, mother Monika and sister Nicky said: 'Since his childhood Sean had dreamed of flying fast jets in the Royal Air Force.

'Through his hard work and dedication he achieved that dream and the pinnacle of his career was to fly in the Red Arrows.

'Sean loved his flying and we hope that his life will be an inspiration to all those who share his dreams.

'His fun-loving nature has never failed to put a smile on the faces of those who knew and loved him - this is how he will be remembered.'

Flt Lt Cunningham (left) joined the world-renowned Red Arrows in 2010 and flew in air shows over the summer. Pictured (right) is his sister Nicky at court today

He started with the Red Arrows in 2010 but was killed in November 2011, aged 35 (pictured is his coffin being carried out at his funeral)

Pictured is the world renowned aerobatic display team which have been compiled for 'Red Arrows in Camera', a stunning photographic record of the world of the Reds

Flt Lt Cunningham moved to the UK in 1986 aged nine and attended the Ernesford Grange School in Coventry.

He qualified for his private pilot licence at the age of 17.

He studied electrical and electronic engineering at Nottingham Trent University, and completed Elementary Flying Training as a member of East Midlands University Air Squadron.

Speaking after his death, the then air officer commanding Number 22 (Training) Group, Air Vice-Marshal Mike Lloyd said: 'The Red Arrows personify the teamwork, professionalism and excellence that is common-place throughout the Royal Air Force and Flight Lieutenant Sean Cunningham demonstrated each of these values on a daily basis.

'His contribution to the service as an aviator in the Tornado GR4 Force, as a Red Arrows pilot and as an officer has been outstanding.

'Sean will be missed by all and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.'

John S Martin (Joint Managing Director, left) and James W Martin (Joint Managing Director) stand behind a joint strike fighter ejector seat in production at Martin-Baker

Group Captain Simon Blake, the commandant of the RAF's Central Flying School, said at the time: 'His constant smile, energy, and joie de vivre was infectious and he will be sorely missed by his fellow pilots, the entire Red Arrows team and his many colleagues and friends in the wider Royal Air Force.

'Our heartfelt sorrow and sympathy go out to his family and all those whose lives he touched.'

In a statement released in January, Martin-Baker: 'Firstly and most importantly we express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Flight Lieutenant Sean Cunningham.

'Today, Martin-Baker Aircraft Company entered a guilty plea to a single breach of Section 3 (1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This plea was entered following detailed and lengthy discussions with the Health and Safety Executive which have considerably narrowed the issues from when its investigation first started.

'It should be noted that this was an isolated failure relating to the tightening of a nut during maintenance procedures conducted by RAF Aerobatic Team (RAFAT) mechanics.

Legal representatives for Martin-Baker Ltd are pictured arriving at Lincoln Crown Court

'Martin-Baker Aircraft Company has designed and manufactured ejection seats for 73 years and in that time these ejection seats have been flown by 92 air forces, with over 17,000 seats currently in use. Our ejection seats have saved the lives of 1,050 British Royal Air Force and Navy aircrew, with a further 6,009 aircrew lives saved around the world.

'Martin-Baker's priority has and will always be the safety of the aircrew who sit on the Company's seats. We appreciate that the Health and Safety Executive, during this process, has acknowledged this dedication and track record of saving lives.

'A further and more detailed press statement will be released at the conclusion of these proceedings.'

A Health and Safety Executive spokesman said: 'HSE acknowledges the defendant's guilty plea but will not make a further comment until after sentencing.

Judge Mrs Justice Carr told the court: 'In light of the defendant's guilty plea the matter will now proceed to sentencing.'

Prosecutor Rex Tedd said: 'The first matter in dispute is the question of design. We say it was defective from the outset.'

No sentence has yet been made.A woman has admitted snatching a newborn from hospital and raising her as her own daughter for 18 years.

Gloria Williams could face up to 22 years in jail for posing as a nurse at University Hospital, in Jacksonville, and walking out with a baby named Kamiyah Mobley.

On Monday, she appeared in court to plead guilty to kidnapping as well as an interference charge, which could carry an additional five years in jail.

The 52-year-old was arrested in January 2017, after Kamiyah Mobley, who Williams renamed as Alexis Manigo, discovered the woman who raised her was not her mother, but her kidnapper.

Gloria Williams, who kidnapped Kamiyah Mobley when she was a newborn, was in court on Monday to enter a guilty plea

The 52-year-old appeared in chains and an orange prison jumpsuit for the court appearance on the same day her trial was due to start

Incredibly, Mobley, of South Carolina, says she has already forgiven Williams and is pleading with the courts to give her less than ten years in jail. Her birth parents have not got involved with the case, saying they just want to focus on spending time with their daughter after years apart.

'Don't get me wrong, I do feel like it was wrong. But we talked about it and I can understand at the time what was going on,' she told DailyMail.com.

'I sympathize with her, I'm not mad at her - of course I forgive her.

'I am certain that she's going to get time but I'm hoping not very, very long. I think they should be lenient. It's not like she took me and tortured me my whole life. She took care of me very well.'

Williams, who took a plea deal on the day her trial was due to begin, will be sentenced in May.

Neither Mobley nor her birth parents were in court.

Mobley, who was raised as Alexis Manigo, issued an extraordinary plea for leniency last month ahead of Williams' kidnapping trial. Mobley is pictured above in January

Now 19, she was just eight hours old on July 10, 1998, Williams posed as a nurse and entered Shanara Mobley's hospital room at what is now known as UF Health-Jacksonville, claiming that Kamiyah had a fever and needed to be checked.

Williams then disappeared with the child in her arms, not to be seen again for the next 18 years.

The deception began to unravel when Mobley applied for a restaurant job two years before Williams was arrested, according to court documents.

When she demanded her social security number, Williams supposedly broke down and confessed to the abduction.

Mobley said she quietly pieced together the majority of her backstory by herself from Google. She once called her biological mother but hung up when she heard her voice.

Williams (right) is accused of snatching Mobley, now 19, (left) from a Florida hospital in 1998 when she was just eight hours old and posing as her biological mother for the girl's entire life

The teen first met her biological parents when Mobley and Aiken, who had separated after the abduction, raced to see her following Williams' arrest.

The 52-year-old, pictured above in her 2017 mugshot, faced court briefly in Jacksonville on Thursday ahead of her trial next week

Mobley has spent the last 12 months forging new ties with her biological parents, Shanara Mobley, 36, and Craig Aiken, 42, as well as getting to know the numerous siblings she never realized she had.

She has already formed an 'incredible bond' with her biological father and has been staying at his home for weeks at a time. The teen celebrated Christmas with Aiken, his wife Shannon and her eight half-siblings.

But her defense of Williams has made it harder for the teen to rebuild her relationship with her biological mother. Shanara Mobley wrote on Facebook last year: 'The tears won't stop. I see my baby girl wanting this lady in her life and not me.'

'It's been harder for my mother to cope. We are working on our relationship. I don't like to define which one is my mother, I like to be respectful of both parties,' the teen said.

The teen first met her biological parents when Shanara Mobley and Craig Aiken, who had separated after the abduction, raced to see her following Williams' arrest (above)

'I don't like to take away from either one of their duties or what they did. I don't want to pick sides.'

Growing up, Mobley insists she had no reason to doubt that Williams was her mom or question her identity. She was the 'princess' of the family and loved to fool around with her brothers.

'As a mom, she was very smart, very loving, and generous. She was always giving everything she had to me and my friends,' Kamiyah said. 'She wasn't a parent who could say no. I was very spoiled. I know she loved me.

'She taught me the difference between right and wrong. We went to church. She may have had a few speeding tickets, but she was never in any trouble. She is a good person.'

Footage has been released showing the moment Gloria Williams, 52, was reunited with Kamiyah Mobley - the girl she is charged with kidnapping at birth from Florida

The video, released by Florida prosecutors, shows the moment the teenager was allowed to briefly meet with Williams under the watchful eye of police following her arrest

Footage has now been released by Florida prosecutors of the moment the teenager was allowed to briefly meet with Williams under the watchful eye of police following her arrest.

'I'm sorry baby. I love you,' Williams can be heard telling an emotional Mobley in the video obtained by ABC News.

Mobley then spoke of the officers who came to arrest the woman who raised her, saying: 'They are sending three people like you are some kind of violent person.'

Williams responded: 'They just want to make sure you are okay.'A former West Virginia police officer was awarded $175,000 after he sued the city for wrongful termination after he refused to shoot a suicidal man.

Stephen Mader responded to a domestic incident in May 2016 and found himself in a confrontation with a 23-year-old armed man, Ronald 'RJ' Williams, who was begging Mader to kill him.

'Just shoot me,' Williams pleaded, but Mader used what he learned in the Marines and the police academy to assess the situation - and refused to shoot.

One month later the Weirton Police Department fired Mader. The lawsuit, filed in May 2017, claims the department fired him because of 'failure to meet probationary standards of an officer' and 'apparent difficulties in critical incident reasoning'.

'At the end of the day, I'm happy to put this chapter of my life to bed,' Mader said in a news release by the American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia.

'The events leading to my termination were unjustified and I'm pleased a joint resolution has been met. My hope is that no other person on either end of a police call has to go through this again.'

Former West Virginia cop, Stephen Mader (left) won $175,000 after he filed a lawsuit against the city of Weirton in May 2017 claiming he was wrongfully terminated after he refused to shoot suicidal man, Ronald Williams (right), 23, in May 2016

Mader had only been working with the Weirton Police Department for 10 months when the incident took place.

According to the lawsuit, Mader responded to a call from Williams's girlfriend that he was threatening to hurt himself with a knife.

Mader said his Marine Corps and police officer training taught him to assess a threat level. He said Williams was visibly upset but not aggressive or violent.

He said instead of shooting Williams he tried using his calm voice, urging the 23-year-old, of Pittsburgh, to put the weapon down while standing behind the man's car.

'I told him: "Put down the gun" and he's like, "Just shoot me". And I told him: "I'm not going to shoot you brother",' Mader told WPXI.

During the incident, Mader (pictured) said he saw that Williams had a gun 'but it was not pointed' at him and that he used what he learned in the Marines and the police academy to assess the situation

Mader said Williams started flicking his wrist to try and get a reaction - but still he didn't shoot.

'I thought I was going to be able to talk to him and de-escalate it. I knew it was a suicide-by-cop situation,' he said.

Two other Weirton officers then arrived on the scene. When Williams walked towards them and brandished his weapon, one cop fatally shot him.

Investigators later found Williams's gun to be unloaded. Mader was fired shortly after the incident.

The ex-cop's attorney, Timothy O'Brien, along with the ACLU of West Virginia, filed the suit against the city of Weirton on Mader's behalf in May.

Timothy O'Brien, lead counsel in the lawsuit, said he's pleased Mader's case has been resolved.

O'Brien said the city's decision to fire Mader 'because he chose not to shoot and kill a fellow citizen, when he believed that he should not use such force, not only violates the Constitution, common sense and public policy, but incredibly punishes restraint'

'No police officer should ever lose their job - or have their name dragged through the mud - for choosing to talk to, rather than shoot, a fellow citizen,' he said. '

His decision to attempt to de-escalate the situation should have been praised, not punished. Simply put, no police officer should ever feel forced to take a life unnecessarily to save his career.'

An investigation by West Virginia State Police concluded the shooting was justified.

But the case was handled questionably by the local police department, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

The newspaper reported that Williams was not identified for three days after the shooting. Additionally, the case was assigned to an investigator who immediately went on a week-long vacation.

Weeks after Mader returned to work following the usual leave after an officer-involved shooting, he was told to meet Weirton Police Chief Rob Alexander.

Alexander told him that he was being placed on administrative leave pending an investigation because he 'put two other officers in danger'.

Mader said: 'Right then, I said to him: Look, I didn't shoot him because he said, 'Just shoot me.''

But on June 7, he was handed a notice of termination saying that he had 'failed to eliminate a threat'.

It also mentioned other incidents in which the city deemed Mader behaved inadequately.

Two other responding officers arrived at the scene and one officer fatally shot Williams, whose gun was discovered to be unloaded. Mader (pictured, left, serving in the Marines, and right as a police officer) was fired shortly after the incident

One was because neither he nor two other officers with more experience than him (the same two involved in the Williams case) reported an elderly woman's death as suspicious after she appeared to have fallen in her home after suffering a stroke.

Another was a complaint from a woman who said Mader cursed at her when she asked why her husband was arrested for disorderly conduct after receiving a parking ticket.

Mader insisted he did nothing wrong in either situation, but was never given an opportunity to clarify what happened.

He also said he was outraged that at a press conference on June 8  after he was fired  Alexander told reporters that all three officers involved were back at work.

He believes the chief said so to give a good impression of the police department and the officers, who are all white, involved in the case in light of the tensions across the country between the black community and police.

Mader believes the other two officers were justified in shooting Williams, adding: 'They did not have the information I did.'

Weeks after taking the usual leave following an officer-involved shooting, Mader said he was told to meet police chief Rob Alexander (pictured), who placed him on administrative leave and, later, he was handed a notice of termination

He added: 'All they know is [Williams] is waving a gun at them. It's a shame it happened the way it did, but, I don't think they did anything wrong.'

Williams's family, however, believe the decision to fire Mader shows the nature of the police department's policy.

'Not only do they think he should have been shot and killed, but shot and killed more quickly, an attorney for the family told the Post-Gazette at the time.

Mader grew up in Weirton and was ecstatic to land a job in the police department after four years in the Marines, which included a tour of Afghanistan.

He married his high school sweetheart, Kaycie Mader, and the couple has two sons, ages three and five.

Mader was excited for the challenge after getting a job with the police department, which paid just $34,000 in the first year.

Since he was fired, he has been working with the West Virginia National Guard.

In 2016, Mader sought legal help to fight the city's decision - only to be told there was no point because he could be fired for any reason in an 'at-will' state.

They told him he could ask to resign instead of being terminated, but Mader refused to admit wrongdoing.

'To resign and admit I did something wrong here would have ate at me. I think I'm right in what I did,' he said.

His wife agrees, saying she is 'extremely proud of her husband'.Czarny, who supports early voting, called the amendment "a very significant development."

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"I think the governor, to be quite honest, is putting his money where his mouth is," he said. "It's a positive development for early voting."

Early voting is one component of Cuomo's Democracy Agenda, which includes other electoral reforms. He also proposed adopting same-day voter registration and automatic voter registration in an attempt to boost turnout.

While 15 states have some form of same-day voter registration and 10 state have implemented automatic voter registration, most have an early voting system in place.

There are 37 states that allow early voting before Election Day. New York is one of 13 states that doesn't have some form of early voting and requires and excuse to obtain an absentee ballot.

Under Cuomo's proposal, New York would require counties to have at least one polling location for every 50,000 residents. In Cayuga County, for example, one polling site would be required.

The state would mandate that the polling sites be open for a 12-day period before Election Day. The polls would be open for a minimum of eight hours on weekdays and at least five hours on weekends.Benjamin Gregware, 42, was killed by a state trooper and a Richmond police officer on Sunday in Vermont

A distraught man pointing a gun at his own head was shot by police in a fatal traffic stop in Vermont, according to state authorities.

Police say 42-year-old Benjamin Gregware, of Sheldon, died at the hospital on Sunday after being shot on Interstate 89 in Bolton by a trooper and a Richmond police officer just before 4pm.

Gregware, a father of 10, was allegedly walking towards Trooper Christopher Brown and Richmond Corporal Richard Greenough after being pulled over and had refused commands to drop his weapon.

His ex-wife had called police before the shooting, saying she was worried about him because he was slurring his words and had told her he purchased ammunition at a Walmart, police said.

She also said her ex-husband, who had been scheduled to visit their children that day, had been laid off from his job and was struggling with alcohol addiction, according to a news release by Vermont police.

The father-of-three was allegedly suicidal and pointing a gun at his own head

Gregware was allegedly walking towards Trooper Christopher Brown (left) and Richmond Corporal Richard Greenough (right) and refused orders to drop his weapon when he was shot

State Trooper Jay Riggen allegedly spoke with Gregware on the phone for about 20 minutes. The suicidal man told the trooper he was afraid of losing custody of his children and was going to drive until he ran out of gas and then 'end it'.

Brown and Greenough then stopped Gregware's red Honda Accord near marker 69 on the highway. Because it was a high-risk stop, Birmingham said, the officers drew their guns and commanded Gregware to exit the vehicle.

Gregware then stepped out of the car and pointed a gun at his own head. He never pointed the gun at the officers, but refused to put it down as he approached them, according to authorities.

At least 12 shots were fired by the two officers, and at least three struck Gregware, investigators believe.

The victim's handgun was later found to have 14 rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber.

Gregware told a trooper he was going to drive until he ran out of gas and then 'end it'

His handgun (pictured) was found to have 14 rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber

The incident was recorded by two cruiser cameras and Greenough's body camera, but footage won't be released until the investigation is over.

Colonel Matthew Birmingham said on Monday he is commissioning a study to determine if procedures need to change.

Trooper Brown has previously been involved in two other fatal shootings and a non fatal shooting.

Birmingham said.: 'I worry about Trooper Brown and the impact that this is having on him.

'These individual incidents are looked at independently of each other, not collectively, because lethal force is a justification point that occurs in a split second of time.'

Both officers have been put on administrative leave while prosecutors investigate the shooting.

Gregware's ex-wife told police he had just been laid off from his job and was struggling with alcohol addiction

Gregware's girlfriend Ann Shick took to Facebook on Monday to share her grief

In the last six months, Vermont State Police have been involved in three officer-related shootings, while this is the first officer-involved shooting for Richmond's Police Department in 50 years.

Richmond Police Chief Alan Buck said this was the first officer-involved shooting for the town's department in its 50 years.

Gregware's girlfriend Ann Shick took to Facebook on Monday to share her grief.

'I will love you for the rest of my life...' she wrote alongside a picture of Gregware and two children.The US Air Force came under fire after admitting it failed to submit the gunman Devin Patrick Kelley's name to the FBI's background check system

More than 4,000 names have been added to the country's list of ex-military members banned from owning firearms since the Sutherland Springs massacre last November, a CNN report has found.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the US Air Force came under fire after admitting it failed to submit the gunman's name to the FBI's background check system - even though he had been kicked out of the military for assaulting his wife, which should have prevented him from owning a firearm under federal law.

Still, the ex-airman was able to purchase a semiautomatic rifle that he used to kill 26 people and injure 20 others at the First Baptist Church church in Texas, exposing a massive hole in the nation's background check system.

Since then, 4,284 names have been added to the FBI's list of dishonorably discharged military personnel banned from owning firearms - an increase of 38 per cent.

It is the law that anyone who receives a dishonorable or misconduct discharge should automatically get banned from owning a firearm.

The FBI's list of banned servicemen and women hovered at about 11,000 since 2015, but that number jumped to 14,825 in November and then to 15,583 in December.

Now, the number stands at 15,597, the review of FBI statistics found.

The ex-airman was able to purchase a semiautomatic rifle that he used to kill 26 people and injure 20 others at the First Baptist Church church in Texas (pictured)

As CNN points out, more than 4,000 unfit people could have bought weapons while they were kept out of the FBI's list of dishonorably discharged ex-service members.

The Department of Defense has not yet acknowledged the military has highly expanded the list since the tragic shooting.

But the the US Marine Corps, Air Force and Navy admitted that they have been going through old records.

'We are in the process of conducting a thorough review of past cases to ensure that any prior failures to report are rectified and the appropriate information is provided to the FBI,' Capt. Christopher R. Harrison, a spokesman for the Marines, told CNN.

The US Army declined to comment, citing a pending lawsuit about its failures to report these types of cases. The US Coast Guard, on its part, said it always reports to the FBI on time, so its numbers aren't part of the recent spike.

The Department of Defense has not acknowledged the military has highly expanded their list of dishonorably discharged members since the tragic shooting (stock photo of the Pentagon)

Rep Scott Taylor, of Virginia, told CNN: 'I'm encouraged that they're trying to hurry up and get through this backlog. But it was a failure of duty and responsibility to not report these people to the federal database. I'm highly disappointed.'

A dishonorable discharge happens when members are convicted by the military of violence or serious, felony-level crimes, while a bad-conduct discharge happens with drug-dealing and domestic violence offenses, such as the Texas gunman's.

Although the Texas shooter received a bad-conduct discharge, only cases of dishonorable discharges are reflected in the recent spike.

The armed forces are required to report dishonorable and bad-conduct discharges to the FBI, as both ban people from owning firearms, but they have long struggled with reporting all of these cases.

In 1997, a general inspector report found the Navy failed to notify the FBI of dishonorable and misconduct discharges 93 per cent of the time, and the Army 79 per cent of the time.

The Pentagon's Office of Inspector General is currently investigating how the Air Force failed to report Texas shooter Devin Patrick Kelley to the FBI.The former head of a Melbourne Jewish school accused of sexually abusing pupils before fleeing to Israel has been arrested in the Middle East.

Malka Leifer, who served as principal of the Adass Israel School, has been accused of faking mental illness in order to get out of appearing at extradition hearings.

Leifer, who is a mother-of-eight, now aged in her 50s, is wanted in Victoria on 74 counts of child sexual abuse after she allegedly exploited at least 15 pupils during private lessons.

Malka Leifer, a mother-of-eight, is wanted over 74 allegations of child abuse during her time as head of the Adass Israel School, in Melbourne. She has now been arrested in Israel, where she fled after the accusations came to light, and accused of faking mental illness

Dassi Elrich was a former pupil of the school and claims she was abused by Leifer for three years starting aged 15 during which she was touched and digitally penetrated

She was first accused back in 2008 but fled Australia in the middle of the night with her family, amid allegations the school helped fund her journey.

In 2014 she was arrested for the first time in Israel after Australia filed an extradition request, and subsequently released on bail.

Doctors stopped those proceedings in 2016, saying that she was unfit to stand trial because she was suffering from panic attacks and was unfit to attend court, the Times Of Israel reports.

Over the next six months further exams confirmed the attacks were genuine.

But last month police began investigating at the request of Interpol, and she was arrested for a second time on Monday at the West Bank settlement of Emmanuel.

A statement issued at the time of the arrest said: 'During 2017 there were indications that the suspect was pretending to be suffering from a mental illness in order to avoid the extradition process.

'As a result, the police again opened an investigation that led to her arrest this morning.'

In 2015, former student Dassi Erlich, now 30, brought a civil case against the school  which was ordered to pay her $1,024,428 in damages.

In court Erlich told how she was abused during private religious lessons, starting when she was 15, in which she accused Leifer of rubbing her thighs up against her.

Adass Israel School has been accused of helping Leifer flee the country in 2008 after the allegations against her first came to light

Over the course of three years the abuse escalated and she was sexually touched and digitally penetrated, Erlich said.

She left Australia for Israel after getting married aged 18 to a man her parents chose for her, and opened up about the alleged abuse in meetings with a therapist.

The therapist passed the information along to a colleague in Melbourne's Adass community before they reached the school.

In March 2008, a meeting was held about the eight separate allegations against Liefer, attended by the school board president Yitzhok Benedict, board member Meir Ernst, barrister Norman Rosenbaum, psychologist Vicki Gordon and Bromberg.

The group spoke to Liefer, who denied the allegations against her, and told her she would be removed from her position.

But shockingly, instead of reporting the allegations to the police, they decided to help Liefer flee the country.

The school reportedly paid for a flight to Israel for Liefer, who left the country in the middle of the night, just hours after that conversation.

Supreme Court Judge Jack Rush called the actions of that night 'deplorable.'

But school board president Benedikt insists the decision was the right one  and done with the intention of ensuring Liefer was kept away from the school's children.President Donald Trump challenged Democrats to rally around immigration reforms he can throw his support behind on Monday as the Senate moved ahead with an open-ended debate on the subject.

Trump reminded lawmakers of his oft-stated desire to end chain migration and the diversity lottery with compromise legislation.

'We think there's a good chance of getting DACA done if the Democrats are serious and they actually want to do it,' he said.

President Donald Trump challenged Democrats to rally around immigration reforms he can throw his support behind on Monday as the Senate moved ahead with an open-ended debate on the subject

As part of an earlier agreement with Democrats to fill federal coffers, Mitch McConnell, the top-ranking senator, pledged to release his iron-fisted grip on the upper chamber's schedule and allow a free-flowing debate on reforms to the immigration system to take place on the Senate floor.

Lawmakers will vote on a motion to proceed this afternoon, with the first speeches beginning at 5:30 pm.

'Whoever gets to 60 wins,' McConnell said last week. 'There's no secret plan here to try to push this in any direction. The Senate is going to work its will, and I hope that we will end up passing something.'

The process allows for an unlimited number of amendments and leaves the final outcome of the debate wholly up to office-holders who make up the U.S. Senate.

Republicans have the slimmest of majorities in the upper chamber at 51 seats to Democrats 49 seats. Any legislation that reaches the Senate's 60 vote threshold would necessarially be bipartisan.

Trump's opening salvo was a legislative framework that offered 1.8 million Dreamers a pathway to citizenship over 10-12 years.

The group includes current participants in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival program that's set to end in three weeks and immigrants who'd qualify but did not sign up.

In the swap, the president requested $25 billion for his border wall and border security and reforms to the visa system that could cut lawful immigration by as much as half.

Lawmakers immediately rejected Trump's request and are on their own now to come up with a bill that can pass the House of Representatives and win over the hard-to-please head of the executive branch.

The president has the authority to veto legislation that was not approved by a two-thirds majority of Congress. He has sent mixed signals this year as to whether he'd use it if immigration legislation lands on his desk that he doesn't like.

'Any deal on DACA that does not include STRONG border security and the desperately needed WALL is a total waste of time,' Trump said in a tweet last week. 'March 5th is rapidly approaching and the Dems seem not to care about DACA. Make a deal!'

On March 5, work permits and other documents protecting DACA participants from deportation will begin to expire. It's possible that Trump could step in and extend the program his administration says is unconstitutional, but White House Chief of Staff John Kelly said the president is unlikely to do so last week.

As part of an earlier agreement with Chuck Schumer and the Democrats (left) to fill federal coffers, Mitch McConnell, the top-ranking GOP senator (right) pledged to release his iron-fisted grip on the upper chamber's schedule and allow a free-flowing debate on reforms to the immigration system to take place on the Senate floor

Trump said Monday that he was optimistic that lawmakers would hammer out an agreement by then.

'I hope to be able to make a deal. I hope the Democrats are not going to use it just as a campaign. You know, they've been talking about DACA for many years, and they haven't produced,' he said.

DACA was left out of at two-year budget agreement that Republicans and Democrats struck last week in the midst of a spending crisis.

'We didn't want to have it in the big budget, because if we have it in the big budget it's going to get mixed up with all of the other things,' Trump explained on Monday. 'So now we have our military taken care of, and now we start very serious DACA talks today.'

Trump said he'd 'love' to sign legislation codifying the protections is predecessor gave illegal immigrants who came to the United States as children.

'I think we'll produce, but if the Democrats want to make a deal, it's really up to them,' the president said. 'Because we want really tremendous border security, but we have to have Democrat support for DACA.'

Senator Jeff Flake, a Republican who is part of a bipartisan group of senators seeking comprehensive immigration reform, said Sunday that 'we really don't know what the outcome is going to be.'

If legislators in the upper chamber 'put a good bill to the president' that has a veto-proof majority behind it, Flake told NBC that he believes that Trump and the House will accept it.

Trump also has to stick to his word, though, the retiring senator who represents Arizona, a border state, said. 'We have had some issues of him saying, "Well, this looks good, and we hope that you in the House and Senate will work it out, and I'll sign whatever." And then later saying, "No, I don't like this proposal," or, "I don't like that."

'But I do think that this week is going to be, like I said, something we haven't seen before. And I'm looking forward to it, as are my colleagues,' Flake said on Meet the Press.President Donald Trump said Monday that if other nations commit to shrinking their nuclear arsenals, he would be willing to consider matching their moves.

Otherwise, he told a meeting of state and local officials, America will continue to have the world's most advanced nuclear arsenal  one that's 'absolutely modernized and brand new.'

'We will always be number one in that category, certainly as long as I'm president,' he said. 'We're going to be far, far in excess of anybody else.'

Trump discussed the U.S. nuclear posture as he boasted to a group of state and local officials that the White House's budget request calls for a significant increase in military spending.

'We're going to have the strongest military we ever had by far. We're increasing arsenals of virtually every weapon,' the president declared.

President Donald Trump said Monday during a meeting on infrastructure with state and local officials that he would be willing to shrink America's nuclear arsenal if other atomic nations decided to do it first

The president said of the other four recognized nuclear powers that 'I hope they stop. And if they do, we'll stop in two minutes. And frankly I'd like to get rid of a lot of them'

This 2014 file photo shows an inert Minuteman 3 missile in a training launch tube at Minot Air Force Base, in North Dakota; the base maintains 150 nuclear-tipped missiles spread out across the North Dakota countryside and keeps them ready to launch at a moment's notice as part of the US nuclear defense strategy

'We're modernizing and creating brand new, a brand new nuclear force and frankly we have to do because others are doing it.'

'If they stop, we'll stop,' he added, But they're not stopping. So if they're not going to stop, we're going to be so far ahead of everybody else, and nuclear like you've never seen before.'

'And I hope they stop. And if they do, we'll stop in two minutes. And frankly I'd like to get rid of a lot of them. And if they want to do that, we'll go along with them. We won't lead the way; we'll go along with them.'

The president's views on nuclear weapons have evolved in a hawkish direction since the days before his inauguration when he told a pair of European newspapers that America's and Russia's arsenals 'should be way down and reduced very substantially.'

After barely a month in office, Trump had embraced a position that his words on Monday echoed.

'I am the first one that would like to see ... nobody have nukes, but we're never going to fall behind any country even if it's a friendly country. We're never going to fall behind on nuclear power," he told Reuters last last February.

'It would be wonderful, a dream would be that no country would have nukes, but if countries are going to have nukes, we're going to be at the top of the pack.'

Trump is 'all in for modernization' of America's nuclear weapons program, according to one person in the July meeting; some underground missile command consoles still look like something out of a Cold War movie set

Monday wasn't the first time Trump has been in the news for musing about the size of America's atomic weapons stockpile.

He reportedly told top generals in mid-2017 that the nuclear arsenal should be beefed up nearly ten-fold.

During the July meeting that led to Secretary of State Rex Tillerson calling the president a 'moron,' Trump was shown a slide presentation that depicted America's nuclear stockpile diminishing during the past five decades.

NBC News reported in October that Trump's concerns at the time were focused on the 'Nuclear Posture Review,' a periodic Pentagon effort scheduled for completion around the end of the year.

But Trump's top military advisers explained to him that expanding the U.S. nuclear arsenal is impractical because of both budgets and treaty obligations.

America's overall military firepower, they said  which includes nuclear, conventional and next-generation weaponry  has left the U.S. better positioned for national defense than at the end of the Cold War, when the nuclear piece of the puzzle was larger than today's.

Trump, according to NBC, was reacting to a slide that showed the U.S. with 32,000 nuclear warheads in the late 1960s, compared to what the Federation of American Scientists estimates as 4,000 today.

In some cases, launch codes are contained on antiquated 8-inch floppy disks (left), and the physical launch mechanisms are still carried out by keys and flip-switches

Russia has a stockpile estimated at 7,000, according to the Arms Control Association. France is third, with about 300.

The president reportedly told his advisers that he wanted to see America back to 32,000.

Both Trump and Pentagon chief James Mattis denied that account hours later.

'No, I never discussed increasing it. I want it in perfect shape,' the president said as he fielded questions in the Oval Office alongside Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

'That was just fake news by NBC, which gives a lot of fake news lately.'

'I think somebody said I want ten times the nuclear weapons that we have right now,' the president said then.

'We won't need an increase, but I want modernization and I want total rehabilitation. It's got to be in tip-top shape.'An alleged dog dealer kept 'pot-bellied' and 'lethargic' puppies in a pink barbie doll box and crate, a court heard.

Victoria Montgomery, 55, is accused of failing to protect dogs in her care from pain and suffering.

Officers seized seven dogs during a raid of her home in Barking, Essex, alongside RSPCA inspectors in October 2014.

One of the puppies died shortly afterwards.

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Officers seized seven dogs during a raid of Victoria Montgomery's home in Barking, Essex, alongside RSPCA inspectors in October 2014

Shocking footage of the inspection on October 21, 2014, was taken by RSPCA inspector William Rippon, who was accompanied by two police officers

Six Jack Russell-Chihuhua puppies were found at the house along with a five-year-old female Great Dane and two adult Jack Russell-Chihuahua terriers

Shocking footage of the inspection on October 21, 2014, was taken by RSPCA inspector William Rippon, who was accompanied by two police officers.

Six Jack Russell-Chihuhua puppies were found at the house along with a five-year-old female Great Dane and two adult Jack Russell-Chihuahua terriers.

Montgomery said she was planning to give the dogs to her grandchildren as a Christmas present and keep one for herself.

Victoria Montgomery, 55, is accused of failing to protect dogs in her care from pain and suffering

Last year Montgomery was convicted for her role in a 100,000 fraud alongside her daughter Roxanne and partner Tony Hammond, and 58-year-old Teresa Wade (pictured)

Albert Brazier (pictured) and Wade, both of Aveley, Essex, are appearing in court alongside Montgomery

Southend Magistrates' Court heard that four dogs were found in a crate and two puppies were in a pink Barbie toy box.

In the video taken of the raid, Mr Rippon can be heard saying one of the dogs had 'fleas crawling all over him' and that there was a 'very bad smell' in the house.

He picks up one puppy, describing it as 'pot-bellied', and says another has a 'hernia next to his penis'.

Mr Rippon says another puppy's back bone is 'prominent' and it has a 'big bloated belly'.

He adds: 'All dogs seem quite lethargic.'

Southend Magistrates' Court heard that four dogs were found in a crate and two puppies were in a pink Barbie toy box

In the video taken of the raid, Mr Rippon can be heard saying one of the dogs had 'fleas crawling all over him' and that there was a 'very bad smell' in the house

Prosecutor Hazel Stevens said that Montgomery and others were involved in breeding and selling puppies.

Ms Stevens said the animals were lethargic and none had been microchipped.

Last year Montgomery was convicted for her role in a 100,000 fraud alongside her daughter Roxanne and partner Tony Hammond, and 58-year-old Teresa Wade.

The gang from Essex had sold hundreds of sick and dying dogs to unsuspecting members of the public.

Many of the animals died or suffered serious health problems after being kept in windowless sheds, before being sold for an average of 450 each.

Montgomery, now of Dagenham, Essex, is charged with one count of failing to protect the animals from pain, suffering, injury and disease, contrary to the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

She appears alongside Albert Brazier, 64, and Wade, both of Aveley, Essex, who also are charged under the Animal Welfare Act.

Brazier is accused of three counts of failing in his duty to ensure animal welfare and two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

Wade is charged with three counts of failing in her duty to ensure animal welfare.

The case against Brazier and Wade is yet to be opened.Donald Trump Jr said he was disgusted and disturbed after his wife Vanessa Trump was hospitalized Monday morning when she opened a letter with a white powder inside.

The former model, 40, was at her parents' apartment in a building in Manhattan's Midtown East around 10am when she opened the letter addressed to her husband and started coughing and feeling nauseous, a source with direct knowledge of the incident told DailyMail.com

Trump's mother Bonnie Haydon handled the letter before passing it on to her daughter, according to the New York Post.

The mother and daughter and another person were decontaminated and taken to New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical Center as a precaution, New York City Fire Department officials said. They appear to be fine now.

Law enforcement sources told the Post that the powder turned out to be cornstarch.

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Vanessa Trump was hospitalized on Monday after opening a letter with a white powder inside of it. She's pictured above with her husband, Donald Trump Jr., in April 2016

Donald Jr tweeted that he was glad that his wife and children 'are safe and unharmed'

A Hazmat truck is seen outside Vanessa Trump's parent's apartment building on Monday

The view outside NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center where Mrs Trump was taken on Monday

Officially though, an NYPD spokesman wouldn't say what the powder was but said it was 'deemed to be non-hazardous' and is being taken to their lab for 'further analysis'.

The NYPD's intelligence division and the Secret Service are investigating the incident.

'The Secret Service and our law enforcement partners in New York City are investigating a suspicious package addressed to one of our protectees received today in New York, New York. This is an active investigation and we cannot comment any further,' the Secret Service said in a statement.

The daughter-in-law of President Trump and former model is pictured above in new York City on January 31

Sister-in-law Ivanka Trump sent her thoughts from Washington, DC after the incident on Monday

'Thankful that Vanessa & my children are safe and unharmed after the incredibly scary situation that occurred this morning.

'Truly disgusting that certain individuals choose to express their opposing views with such disturbing behavior,' Donald Jr tweeted after the incident.

President Donald Trump spoke to his daughter-in-law on Monday after she arrived at the hospital.

White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters at around 4:00 p.m. that the two had talked on the phone 'in the last hour.'

Donald Jr's sister Ivanka sent her thoughts from Washington, DC.

'Thinking of @MrsVanessaTrump & wishing I was by her side today. No one deserves to be frightened this way. There is no excuse,' she tweeted

President Trump's personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, weighed in with a statement of his own.

'How disturbed must a person be to do what they did to a mother of five young children? This dangerous and reckless act goes beyond political differences,' Cohen said according to the Post.

The incident recalled the scary days after 9/11 when letters containing lethal anthrax spores were sent to the offices of several politicians and media outlets - resulting in five deaths.

Donald Jr, 40, is the eldest son of President Trump, followed by his sister Ivanka, 36; brother Eric, 34; half-sister Tiffany, 24; and half-brother Barron, 11.

As a child of the president, Donald Jr and his family were assigned a Secret Service detail when his father was elected. He voluntarily gave up his Secret Service protection in September, wanting more privacy, but his detail was reinstated about a week later.

Donald Jr and his wife are pictured above with four of their five children voting on election day in 2016

Don Jr and model Vanessa Hayden married in August 2005 at his fathers Mar-a-lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. The pair were actually introduced by the future president when Don Jr attended a fashion show with his father the previous year. Having met at the beginning of the show, Trump Sr was said to be so smitten with Vanessa that he re-introduced his son to her at intermission. Donald comes back up to me again, I dont think youve met my son Donald Trump Jr, Vanessa told The New York Times in 2006. She responded "Yeah, we just met, five minutes ago".

The couple finally started a relationship after being introduced a third time at a party by a mutual friend. Trump Jr, then 26, proposed to her in front of a jewelry store, complete with paparazzi, with a $100,000 engagement ring, which he is said to have wrangled for free in return for publicity.

They have five children, daughters Kai, 10, and Chloe, three; and sons Donald III, eight, Tristan, six, and Spencer, five  all of whom regularly feature on Don Jrs Instagram account.

Since his father and sister Ivanka moved to Washington, DC., Donald Jr and his younger brother Eric have taken over control of their family company.

Last year, Eric was sent a threatening letter with a white powder in it to his New York City apartment as well.BBC Newsnight has hired the second female editor in its 38-year history as Esme Wren (pictured) left Sky News for the top role

BBC Newsnight has hired the second female editor in its 38-year history as Esme Wren left Sky News for the top role.

Currently the head of politics, business and specialist journalism at Sky News in London, she will replace Ian Katz, who left the BBC in November 2017.

The only other woman to serve as editor of the flagship news programme was Sian Kevill, who held the role from 1998 to 2002.

Wren began her journalism career at the BBC in 1999 as a producer on Newsnight.

She said: 'It is a great honour and privilege to be returning to Newsnight to lead this exceptional team of award-winning and creative journalists.

'There couldn't be a more exciting time to edit the programme that leads the way in cutting through the constant noise of political, social and global change.

'The last 12 years at Sky News could not have been better. I've been given the opportunities to grow and develop that have prepared me to now take on one of the best jobs in British journalism.'



The Corporation has been battling to clear its name in a gender pay row, sparked by the resignation of its China editor, Carrie Gracie.

The publicly-funded BBC has been plunged into crisis in recent months after the sheer scale of the gender pay gap was exposed.

Ms Gracie quit as BBC China editor after she found out she was earning far less than her male counterparts.

She said the BBC was facing a 'crisis of trust', after it was revealed two-thirds of its stars earning more than 150,000 were male.

Carrie Gracie (pictured giving evidence to MPs last month) has been embroiled in a row with the BBC over her pay being lower than her male counterparts

The only other woman to serve as editor of the flagship news programme was Sian Kevill (pictured), who held the role from 1998 to 2002

And a host of female stars have threatened to quit and spoken out about their anger at being paid far less than the men at the Corporation.

Fran Unsworth, director of BBC news and current affairs, said: 'Newsnight is in Esme's DNA. It's where she began her broadcasting career and we're delighted to welcome her back to the BBC as its editor.

'She brings with her a wealth of TV and political expertise, and she's worked with some of the finest names in the business.

'We are all looking forward to having Esme at the helm of one of our most important programmes.

'I'd also like to say a huge thank you to Jess Brammar and Dan Clarke, who have been editing Newsnight since Ian's departure.'An Oklahoma mother-of-three has been sentenced to 25 years in a federal prison for videotaping herself sexually abusing her baby daughter and sending the clips to her boyfriend.

Jerrica Lackey, 30, of Tulsa, was convicted of sexual exploitation of a child after first admitting to the crime on a 911 call last year.

The case came to light in May 2017 when Lackey's ex-husband discovered images of his then-16-month-old baby daughter being molested by her own mother.

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Predator: Jerrica Lackey, 30, of Tulsa, was convicted of sexual exploitation of a child and sentenced to 25 years in a federal prison

The mother-of-three from Oklahoma (seen left with her two older kids) last year admitted to videotaping herself sexually abusing her 16-month-old daughter

The man told police he was borrowing Lackey's smartphone when he noticed the social media app Kik and clicked on it, which led him to the disturbing images, reported NewsOn6.

After the man confronted his ex-wife about finding the abuse, Lackey called 911 and confessed that she had sexually abused her child and recorded videos to send to her new boyfriend in Florida.

One video showed the mother digitally penetrating the toddler, according to an affidavit.

Lackey claimed her boyfriend, whom she met on social two months prior, would get angry and 'punish' her if she failed to send him videos of the abuse, reported Tulsa World.

As part of a plea deal, Lackey pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a child under the age of 12, and in return prosecutors agreed to drop one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child porn.

Lackey was arrested in May 2017 after her ex-husband discovered photos and videos on her phone depicting child sex abuse

Lackey claimed her boyfriend would get angry and 'punish' her if she failed to send him videos of herself molesting her own child

This case is an excellent example of state and federal law enforcement working together to identify those who exploit children, United States Attorney Trent Shores stated. We will hold those who prey on the most vulnerable in our society, and who choose to manufacture child pornography, accountable for their actions.

Lackey has remained in jail from the time of her arrest in May 2017. Her youngest daughter is living with her father and the woman's two older siblings are staying with other relatives.An 18-year-old woman was reportedly knocked unconscious on Monday by a female police officer who was filmed appearing to punch the teen in the back of the head repeatedly.

Video footage of the altercation shows two police officers struggling to walk the woman up a set of stairs at Byron Bay's Main Beach.

The 18-year-old suddenly drops to the ground as the female police officer allegedly hits her in the head with a closed fist, according to 9News.

An 18-year-old woman was reportedly knocked unconscious by a female police officer who was filmed appearing to punch her in the head at Byron Bay's Main Beach on Monday afternoon

Video footage of the altercation shows two police officers struggling to walk the woman up a set of stairs at the beach

A man who is believed to be the woman's boyfriend is seen lunging at the police officers and screaming for them to get off her before he is pepper sprayed by the officers.

The person who filmed the incident and posted it on Facebook claimed the woman was unconscious for at least 30 seconds.

The couple have since been charged with affray and assaulting police.

They were given conditional bail to appear in Byron Bay Local Court on March 8.

NSW police said the officers acted in self defense and claim the 18-year-old 'tried to bite a female officer who had to use her self-defence training to avoid injury.'

A man who is believed to be the woman's boyfriend is seen lunging at the police officers and screaming for them to get off her before he is pepper sprayed by the officers

Officers said they were called to the beach after receiving reports of disruptive behaviour in the alcohol-free zone and found the remains of a bottle of vodka in the woman's bag.

'When speaking with an intoxicated woman, she began behaving aggressively towards the police,' police said.

'After checking the woman's bag and the remains of a bottle of vodka was found and disposed of. This is in accordance with the pre-existing alcohol-free zone.'

The woman was taken to hospital under police guard for precautionary checks but was later released.As Gov. Andrew Cuomo proposes funding a study to examine whether the state should legalize marijuana, a new poll found a majority of New York voters support allowing the recreational use of the drug.

The Siena College poll released Monday found 56 percent of New York voters surveyed support legalizing recreational marijuana. Two-thirds of Democrats and 57 percent of independents are supportive, while 57 percent of Republicans oppose the idea.

A majority of voters from New York City (60 percent), the downstate suburbs (55 percent) and upstate (52 percent) back legalizing marijuana.

There is an age disparity in the level of support for recreational marijuana, according to Siena pollster Steve Greenberg.

"Voters 55 and older are closely divided, while three-quarters of voters under 35 support legalization," Greenberg said.

In New York, medical marijuana is legal and strictly regulated. But the recreational use of the drug isn't permitted.

Other states have either legalized recreational marijuana. It is legal in Maine and Massachusetts. In the western U.S., recreational use is legal in Alaska, California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.A father who spent 20 months in detention after being stripped of his residency will be reunited with his family after his case was quashed.

Paul Burgess, 33, was born in the UK but spent his entire life living in Australia until he was ordered out of the country in 2016 over his links to a biker gang and amid a government crackdown on foreign criminals.

But a judge at the Federal Court in Adelaide has ruled that Burgess should be allowed to go free after finding his case did not merit deportation.

Paul Burgess was born in the UK but has lived in Australia since he was two years old. The government tried to deport him in 2016 over his past links to a bike gang, but on Monday the case was quashed. He will now return home to fiancee Megan and son Hunter (right)

Megan Ferris, his fiancee, told Nine that she is hoping to get him home in time for his 34th birthday on Wednesday, so he can celebrate with six-year-old son Hunter.

The pair also plan to marry shortly after he arrives back, she said.

Burgess' case began in 2016 when his residency visa was revoked over two months he spent with the Comancheros bike gang three years previously.

He appealed the case and won, but the government launched an immediate appeal based on other criminal convictions including drink driving, avoiding arrest, disorderly behaviour and breaching bail.

The appeal also included allegations that Burgess assaulted a police officer, though these were later found to be bogus and removed.

The remaining convictions did not meet the required 12 months of prison time required for him to be deported.

Mitchell Simmons, who represented Burgess during his appeal, said: 'The court found today - as it has previously - that the Immigration Minister failed to take into consideration all the things he should when ripping a man away from his family.'A drunk man who claims he was only trying to find Jesus used two empty vodka bottles to break into a police department in Utah.

Officers from the Orem Police Department arrested Siosifa Lolohea early Saturday morning after they found him sprawled out on the department's floor meditating.

Lolohea reportedly told authorities that he had finished out two bottles of vodka and used them to break through the front glass door of the Orem Public Safety Building.

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Siosifa Lolohea (left and right), who claims he was only trying to find Jesus, used two empty vodka bottles to break into a police department in Utah

Officers from the Orem Police Department arrested Lolohea (pictured) early Saturday morning after they found him sprawled out on the department's floor meditating

Lolohea reportedly told authorities that he had finished out two bottles of vodka and used them to break through the front glass door (pictured) of the Orem Public Safety Building

Police said Lolohea 'then entered the building and sat on the floor meditating until police arrived'.

When officers arrived, Lolohea was unresponsive to their commands, so they approached to take him into custody.

Lolohea reportedly made bizarre statements about 'looking for Jesus' and 'nice shoes' while being unable to follow the officer's instructions.

Police said his pupils 'appeared dilated and he was sweating profusely'.

Lt Craig Martinez told Fox News that Lolohea was searching for inner peace.

'He was a little upset that we were messing up his meditation period, disturbing him while he was just trying to get some inner peace,' Martinez said.

Lolohea was charged with criminal mischief, criminal trespass with knowingly unlawful entry, and possession or use of a controlled substance.

The man had suffered a cut on his hand from the broken glass of the door.

Officers also said they believe he was under the influence of some kind of controlled substance as well as the vodka.

The damage to the department's building was estimated at $500.

Officers also said they believe he was under the influence of some kind of controlled substance as well as the vodka. The damage to the department's building was estimated at $500Barnaby Joyce has finally broken his silence and made a public apology to his wife and daughters for his affair with former staffer Vikki Campion.

'I would like to say to Natalie how deeply sorry I am for all the hurt this has caused. To my girls, how deeply sorry I am for all the hurt that it has caused them,' he said.

'To Vikki Campion, how deeply sorry I am that she has been dragged into this.

'I would like to also say to my supporters and people in my electorate how deeply sorry I am that this personal issue - deeply personal issue - has gone into the public arena.'

The embattled Deputy Prime Minister (pictured, right) has spoken out about his affair with staffer Vikki Campion (pictured, left)

Speaking on Tuesday morning, the embattled Deputy Prime Minister (pictured) strenuously denied fresh allegations he pinched a woman's bottom at a Canberra bar in 2011

'I would like to say to Natalie (pictured, left) how deeply sorry I am for all the hurt this has caused. To my girls, how deeply sorry I am for all the hurt that it has caused them,' said Mr Joyce (pictured, right)

Speaking on Tuesday morning, the embattled Deputy Prime Minister strenuously denied fresh allegations he pinched a woman's bottom at a Canberra bar in 2011.

The Nationals leader said Ms Campion was 'without a shadow of doubt' his current partner, slamming accusations he used his position to get her ministerial jobs.

'I am very aware of the Ministerial Code of Conduct. It is without a shadow of a doubt that Vikki Campion is my partner now.

'But when she worked in my office, she was not my partner. When she worked in Matt Canavan's office, she was not my partner.

'And Damien Drum was not a minister. I think this is vitally important in how we differentiate between the public and the private.'

Mr Joyce also addressed new allegations that surfaced overnight, saying they are 'a story that is not the truth'.

'The story  it's not a case that I didnt recollect it. It did not happen,' he said.

'This is a story that has been brought about by a person unnamed, at a venue unnamed, at a time unnamed, seven years ago, and has been peddled by the bitterest of political enemies to me.

'It is not something that I'm unaware of. They've had it on social media for years. It's just, in the past, I don't believe it dignified a response.

'But today, it's in the paper and, as such, I reserve all my legal rights as to what action I should pursue.'

Barnaby Joyce (pictured) has made a statement about his affair with a staffer, following fresh allegations he pinched a woman's bottom

A shadow has been cast over Mr Joyce's position as Deputy PM and Nationals Leader by revelations he has been in a relationship with a former staffer (pictured is Mr Joyce, right, with Mr Turnbull in Question Time on Monday February 12)

'My understanding is that Barnaby Joyce (pictured, centre left, with Ms Campion, centre right) will make a statement about everything that's in the newspapers today,' Mr Tehan

The new allegations were made by a woman who said she approached Mr Joyce in a bar following the Rural Women's Agricultural Awards in Canberra in 2011.

'I went over to the bar and he was very, very drunk and nearly falling over,' the woman told The Daily Telegraph.

'I said "Barnaby, I think you should go home. You're very drunk".

"He leant over and he pinched my bottom.'

A spokesman for Mr Joyce strenuously denied the incident occurred, and said the Nationals leader did not go to a bar or club after the awards.

Mr Joyce is set to serve as Acting Prime Minister during Malcolm Turnbull's visit to the United States to meet President Donald Trump next week.

A growing group of Liberal MPs are putting pressure on their Nationals counterparts to dump Mr Joyce as leader before Mr Turnbull leaves, The Herald Sun reported.

One MP said the Joyce affair has caused 'chaos' in the government and said the scandal threatened the Coalition's 'moral authority'.

Full Statement from Barnaby Joyce Guys, how are you going? I'll make a statement. I won't take any questions. Ready? This morning, in the Telegraph and the Courier-Mail, and referred to in other papers, is a story that is not the truth. The story  it's not a case that I didnt recollect it. It did not happen. This is a story that has been brought about by a person unnamed, at a venue unnamed, at a time unnamed, seven years ago, and has been peddled by the bitterest of political enemies to me. It is not something that I'm unaware of. They've had it on social media for years. It's just, in the past, I don't believe it dignified a response. But today, it's in the paper and, as such, I reserve all my legal rights as to what action I should pursue. On another issue, I would like to say to Natalie how deeply sorry I am for all the hurt this has caused. To my girls, how deeply sorry I am for all the hurt that it has caused them. To Vikki Campion, how deeply sorry I am that she has been dragged into this. I would like to also say to my supporters and people in my electorate how deeply sorry I am that this personal issue  deeply personal issue  has gone into the public arena. I am very aware of the Ministerial Code of Conduct. It is without a shadow of a doubt that Vikki Campion is my partner now. But when she worked in my office, she was not my partner. When she worked in Matt Canavan's office, she was not my partner. And Damian Drum was not a minister. I think this is vitally important in how we differentiate between the public and the private. Thank you. Advertisement

Social Services Minister Dan Tehan said the Nationals leader will make the statement on Tuesday morning (pictured are Barnaby and Natalie Joyce in 2015)

The new allegations were made by a woman who said she approached Mr Joyce following the Rural Women's Agricultural Awards in Canberra in 2011 (pictured is Ms Campion, left, and Mr Joyce and Ms Campion, right)

A spokesman for Mr Joyce strenuously denied the incident occurred, and said the Nationals leader did not go to a bar or club after the awards (pictured is Ms Campion, right, with Samantha Armytage, left)

A shadow has been cast over Mr Joyce's position as Deputy PM and Nationals Leader by revelations he has been in a relationship with a former staffer.

Mr Joyce is expecting a child with his former media adviser Ms Campion, 33, having split with his wife Natalie after 24 years of marriage.

Poll Should Barnaby Joyce resign? Yes No I don't know Should Barnaby Joyce resign? Yes 944 votes

No 205 votes

I don't know 39 votes Now share your opinion





The Coalition has been under pressure over jobs offered to Ms Campion after she left Mr Joyce's office when their affair allegedly created tensions in the office.

Ministerial code of conduct prevents close relatives and partners being appointed as staffers 'without the Prime Minister's express approval'.

Mr Turnbull told federal parliament on Monday the 'distribution of those staff members between Nationals offices is a matter for the National Party'.

Despite Ms Campion expecting a baby with Mr Joyce, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister denied he breached the code because she 'could not be considered his partner at the time'.

Ms Campion worked for Mr Joyce from May 2016 until May last year. She fell pregnant to the National Party leader a couple of months later.

Former Nationals leader John Anderson told The Australian Mr Joyce (pictured) must take responsibility for the political damage the revelations have caused to the party

Following her departure from Mr Joyce's office, Ms Campion worked for Resources Minister Matt Canavan, and then Nationals MP Damian Drum.

'There were rumours around the parliament that something was going on, but certainly at the time that Vikki came to work in my office, my understanding was that it was no longer an ongoing affair,' Mr Drum told ABC radio.

Former Nationals leader John Anderson told The Australian Mr Joyce must take responsibility for the political damage the revelations have caused to the party.

'The issue is creating a problem within the National Party and for the government and must be resolved,' he said, without saying directly what should be done.

Asked if voters would agree Ms Campion wasn't Mr Joyce's partner at the time of her appointments, Treasurer Scott Morrison said it was difficult to untangle.

'He can't have two partners at the same time and he was obviously still married,' he told ABC TV on Monday night.

Mr Joyce is expecting a child with his former media adviser Vikki Campion (pictured), having split with his wife of 24-years, Natalie, in December last year

Mr Joyce (pictured, left) is expecting a child with his former media adviser Ms Campion, 33, having split with his wife Natalie (pictured, right) after 24 years of marriage

Cabinet minister Mathias Cormann insisted Mr Joyce's (pictured) position was a matter for the National Party

Labor is demanding Mr Joyce be 'utterly complete' in his statement.

'It is very clear that Barnaby Joyce and, frankly, Malcolm Turnbull need to make a full account of their knowledge and their actions in all these matters,' shadow treasurer Chris Bowen told ABC radio.

Mr Joyce would need to fully deny the latest allegations because his position was becoming 'increasingly untenable'.

'Any incident in which something has happened particularly to a woman which has made her feel uncomfortable I think is serious,' Mr Bowen said.

Cabinet minister Mathias Cormann insisted Mr Joyce's position was a matter for the National Party.

'But of course we all support Barnaby as a valued friend and colleague,' he said.

'You've got to remember, these are allegations that are sourced by a long-time political rival.'

Mr Joyce (pictured) is set to serve as acting Prime Minister during Malcolm Turnbull's visit to the United States to meet President Donald Trump next week

She had previously worked as a senior adviser to New South Wales Police Minister Troy Grant when the Dubbo MP was deputy premier and was an adviser to Racing Minister Paul Toole when the Bathurst MP had the local government portfolio.

Prior to becoming a political staffer Ms Campion worked for eight years as a journalist with The Daily Telegraph, where she was on the news desk for seven months until July 2014.

Months before it was reported Ms Campion was pregnant to Mr Joyce she began withdrawing from public view.

On December 7, the Nationals leader used the parliamentary debate on same sex marriage to confirm he was no longer with Natalie, the mother of his four daughters.

Following her departure from Mr Joyce's office, Ms Campion worked for Resources Minister Matt Canavan (pictured), and then Nationals MP Damian Drum

Statement from Natalie Joyce on the Deputy Prime Minister's affair I am deeply saddened by the news that my husband has been having an affair and is now having a child with a former staff member. I understand that this affair has been going on for many months and started when she was a paid employee. This situation is devastating on many fronts. For my girls who are affected by the family breakdown and for me as a wife of 24 years, who placed my own career on hold to support Barnaby through his political life. Our family life has had to be shared during Barnaby's political career and it was with trust that we let campaign and office staff into our homes and into our lives. Naturally we also feel deceived and hurt by the actions of Barnaby and the staff member involved. The situation for myself and the girls will be made worse by the fact that this will all be played out in public so at this time. I would ask that the girls and I are given some privacy and time to come to terms with the consequences and take steps to plan our future. Advertisement

'I don't come to this debate pretending to be any saint or anything like that but I do believe in the current definition of marriage, which has stood the test of time,' Mr Joyce said.

'Half of them fail, I acknowledge that, I'm happy to acknowledge that I am currently separated so that is on the record.'

Mr Joyce moved out of his Tamworth family home in December and later moved into the Armidale townhouse he now shares with Ms Campion.

Mrs Joyce has said she felt 'deceived' by the news that Ms Campion is pregnant with her husband's child and claimed the relationship began when she was a paid staffer.Firefighters in Massachusetts braved frigid, knee-deep floodwaters in order to rescue two elderly women who became stranded in a cemetery over the weekend.

Heartening photos taken at the scene on Sunday captured the moment members of the Springfield Fire Department carried one of victims on their backs from St Michaels Cemetery on State Street.

According to officials, the two women, ages 87 and 89, were visiting the burial ground when their sedan had stalled on a flooded road after a recent rainstorm.

Saved: A photo taken on Sunday in St Michael's Cemetery in Springfield, Massachusetts, shows a firefighter carrying an octogenarian on his back after her car stalled

Two women, ages 87 and 89, were visiting the burial ground when their sedan broke down on a flooded section of State Street

Springfield firefighters responded to the scene, waded through knee-deep water and carried both women to safety

When they realized they could not safely get out of the car because of the extent of the flooding, they called 911 for help, reported NBC4i.

Firefighters who responded to the scene had to wade through knee-deep icy floodwaters to reach the partially submerged car and whisk the two women to safety.

One photo shows a firefighter carrying a woman on his back on his own, before his colleague comes to his aid.

Neither one of the women was injured as a result of the incident; the firefighters who saved them also escaped unharmed.

Massachusetts and other parts of the East Coast were pummelled by heavy downpours this weekend, which resulted in severe flooding in some areas.A pit bull that was rescued from a freezing cold river last month has found a new home with a local police officer.

Temperatures were below freezing the morning Daytona Beach, Florida police officers John Pearson and James Lee rescued a pit bull puppy from the waters underneath the Seabreeze bridge.

Video shows the officers drying the puppy off and trying to warm it up in their squad car.

Daytona Police Officer Kera Cantrell (pictured left and right) recently adopted a puppy that her fellow officers rescued last month

The puppy, named River, was found in the freezing waters underneath Seabreeze bridge on January 18

They eventually took the dog to a shelter, which nursed the puppy back to health. While at the facility, the puppy was given the apt name 'River'.

As River was gaining back her strength, another officer, Kera Cantrell, visited the puppy every day.

Earlier this month, the police department made the happy announcement that Cantrell had adopted River.

Video shows officers warming the puppy up after they found her in the freezing waters last month

In the video, the puppy wines and shivers as the officers try to warm her up with their car heater and a towel

Pictured left and right are the officers that saved the puppy, John Pearson (left) and James Lee (right)

The officers took the puppy to a shelter where it was nursed back to health

'This beautiful, spunky puppy was nursed back to health at Halifax Humane Society. One DBPD officer kept visiting River while she recovered. That officer, District One's Kera Cantrell, fell in love with this little canine and the feeling was mutual!

'Officer Cantrell is now River's new Mom and these are two happy girls!' the department wrote on Facebook on February 5.

It's still unclear how the puppy ended up in the river.

River grew healthy and strong in just a few weeks before being adopted by Cantrell

Above, the puppy being taken care of at the local animal shelterAdvertisement

The detonation of an unexploded Second World War bomb discovered near London City Airport has been delayed for 24 hours because of bad weather.

The 1,100lb device, found at George V dock in the early hours of Sunday morning, has been floated out to sea, off the coast of Shoeburyness in Essex, by Royal Navy bomb disposal experts after teams worked through the night.

Thousands of passengers were plunged into travel chaos by the device after the airport was closed as a safety precaution, while hundreds of homes in the nearby Newham area, in east London, were evacuated.

News of the delay comes after a second Nazi bomb was discovered this morning at Grays, in Essex.

This led to the temporary closure of the Queen Elizabeth II bridge, which joins Dartford in Kent and Thurrock also in Essex, across the River Thames, at 8.55am today.

The four-lane bridge, which accommodates southbound traffic from the M25 and sees some 150,000 vehicles each day, has since re-opened after it was announced the device was a dud.

Essex Police tweeted: 'The MoD bomb disposal team has assessed the unexploded bomb and have confirmed it is an empty shell casing with no explosives inside. It will now be taken away from the site and there will be no need for any further closures to the QEII Bridge.'

A bomb found 50ft underwater during work at King George V Dock on Sunday morning is pictured here being moved out to sea using a flotation device, where it will be detonated later today

Naval teams worked throughout the night in a nine-hour operation to move the device found on Sunday

Royal Navy divers head out to lift the Second World War bomb. Royal Navy bomb disposal experts are working alongside the Metropolitan Police to safely remove the device

A Royal Navy diver comes up for air while dealing with the device at George V dock near London City Airport yesterday

The 1,100lb bomb is being dragged underwater before it is detonated in a controlled explosion by specialist divers

The timing of removal is dependent on the tides and so Navy divers are working with the Police to deal with the bomb

Royal Navy divers got ready to attend the bomb and lift it to the sea bed. The nine-hour operation continues overnight

Pictured: A map which marks the areas that have been evacuated as a result of the bomb found near London City Airport

Around 300 flights were cancelled yesterday after a 700ft exclusion zone was set up around City Airport.

Divers worked throughout the night to safely removed the bomb with families eventually able to return to their homes.

City Airport's chief executive Robert Sinclair said: 'The World War Two ordnance discovered in King George V Dock has been safely removed by the Royal Navy and Met Police. As a result, the exclusion zone has now been lifted and the airport will be open as normal.'

The bomb was found 50ft underwater during work at King George V Dock on Sunday morning and has been moved out to sea using a flotation device, where it will be detonated was conditions become safe.

The device is said to be ten times more powerful than those used by the London 7/7 attackers, according to a Royal Navy bomb expert.

The operation to move the bomb down the Thames also disrupted some late-night train services from St Pancras station after police asked for the tunnel under the river to be closed.

The 23:55 to Faversham and the 00:12 to Ashford International are affected, the operator said, and apologised for inconvenience caused.

The operation to move the bomb down the Thames also disrupted some late-night train services from St Pancras station after police asked for the tunnel under the river to be closed

Royal Navy bomb squad officers at the scene of the incident on George V Dock, at London City Airport, on Monday afternoon

The airport has been closed while the bomb squad officers (pictured) investigate at the scene following the major alert

Police advise local residents at Galleon's Lock of the situation where an unexploded Second World War bomb has been discovered adjacent to London City Airport

Those residents based further away from the site were not being evacuated by the authoroties, but were advised to stay away

Bomb disposal experts from the British Army and the Royal Navy are working together to make the unexploded device safe

The 500 kilo bomb will be dragged for nine hours underwater before it is detonated in a controlled explosion

Royal Navy diving crews prepare in a dinghy close to the runway at City Airport in east London on Monday

Divers prepare to go into water by London City Airport as the Royal Navy bomb squad deals with a Second World War explosive

Royal Navy bomb squad officers speak to a diver in the water, just yards from the runway at London City Airport

Two Royal Navy bombsquad officers head out in a dinghy while a device is dealt with at George V Dock by London City Airport

WW2 bomb is 'ten times that of 7/7 explosives' Former Royal Navy Lt Cdr David Welch said German bombs are more dangerous than present-day explosives as they are an 'unknown danger' to bomb squads. Mr Welch said: 'British and German bombs are more dangerous now than when they were first dropped, these items have been armed. 'It is what we call blind because it has not functioned as intended but it is perfectly functional. 'We never find a bomb which no longer has the oomph it did when it was dropped. 'The danger it is presenting is unknown, but it's not going to go off on its own, you have to do something to it, if you do not touch it, it won't go off. 'The Navy tend to drag them out by hand and put a strap around it and relocate it out to a safer area. 'Water has a great dampening effect to the fragmentation. 'So being underwater is far better than someone's garden, but still at the bottom of the Thames you are going to get a fairly hefty noise and spray but not too much fragmentation. 'Windows that are nearby could be broken and as it's on the seabed there is a risk of ground shock. 'They are moving it because of all the associated risks.' Mr Welch added: 'It's still quite big, the 7/7 bombs were 5kg so it is bigger than those. 'It's quite a straight forward process, we do these about 20 or 30 times a year and the military do it quite a lot, it is one of those things where knowledge is definitely power. 'It can still bite you if you do not act in an appropriate way and you could do something that could cause it to function. 'But these divers can literally do it with their eyes closed.' Advertisement

In a statement, Scotland Yard said: 'The device has been examined by Met Police and Royal Navy dive teams and is confirmed as being a 1,100lb tapered-end shell, measuring approximately 5-ft.

'It is lying in a bed of dense silt and the first stage of the removal operation is to free the shell from the silt so that it can be floated for removal.'

During the Blitz some 30,000 tonnes of explosive were dropped across London, usually set to go off immediately, on a timer or booby trapped.

Unexploded devices are known among experts as 'blind' and teams will dig around the shell before attaching a strap and relocating it to a safer area.

The water will absorb much of the force, but if the bomb went off in King George V dock it could still cause a significant amount of spray, noise and potentially damage to nearby homes by smashing windows.

Newham Council confirmed that 'Officers are assisting with a controlled evacuation of up to 500 people.'

Streets in the exclusion zone included, Holt Road, Leonard Street, Lord Street, Newland Street, Tate Road, Muir Street and Kennard Street.

A spokesman added that a former town hall building had been opened up for evacuees.

'Work will not start on lifting and removing the device until the initial 700-ft zone is clear', he said.

Carriers using London City include British Airways, Lufthansa Flybe, CityJet and KLM.

Four-and-a-half million passengers used London City last year and around 50 routes are now served.

Due to its central Location, the airport is popular with business-people heading to destinations around Europe.

BA said it was doing 'everything possible to minimise disruption for our customers', but added the closure of the airport was 'beyond our control'.

While CityJet tweeted: 'Please note our flights are not cancelled. These have been rescheduled to and from Southend for any updates please see our website.'

Flybe said customers could rebook any 'disrupted flights' via their website.

Adding: 'If you have an onward connection please check the information for all separate flights individually.'

Lufthansa confirmed that its four flights scheduled for today were cancelled, with passengers automatically booked onto flights out of London Heathrow.

A spokesman added: 'We regret the inconvenience caused to the affected passengers, safety has the highest priority at Lufthansa.'

Security teams at London City Airport arrive at the scene as Royal Navy bomb squad teams deal with the incident

People with luggage walk away from the cordon around London City Airport after a number of roads were closed off today

Police stand on guard outside London City Airport after a 700-ft exclusion zone was set up following the alert

Police officers have a meeting outside a cordon with residents around London City Airprot evacuated from their homes

London City Airport, to the east of the capital's financial district, sits on the banks of the River Thames (pictured)

Transport for London (TfL) said Docklands Light Railway services will not run between Pontoon Dock and Woolwich Arsenal (pictured, London City Airport DLR station is cordoned off)

Transport for London (TfL) said Docklands Light Railway services would not run between Pontoon Dock and Woolwich Arsenal.

Police set up a small tea and coffee stand for locals who refused to leave their homes.

Local resident Amanda Hawkins, 53, said: 'They knocked on my door at 6am and said they had found a bomb and that you're strongly advised to evacuate.

'But they can't make you, so I'd rather just stay at home. I've lived here most of my life since I was 12. I'm not leaving.'

Jean Lee, 55, was awoken at 1am by police who wanted to evacuate her to Stratford, but has also refused to leave.

Her son Blazej Zdanowicz, 35, lives nearby and came to check how she was getting on.

A police officer inspects the cordon near London City Airport today after a 700-ft exclusion zone was set up

Planes are left parked on the runway at London City Airport today after the runway closed

A 700-ft exclusion zone was set up after the bomb was found at King George V Dock (shown on map). The bombsite is just yards away from London City Airport's runway

Outside her home, he said: 'They came at 1am but mum decided to stay, they are taking people to Stratford and my mum was very concerned about it last night, it's very serious stuff but she would rather stay at home than move.'

Michelle Goodwin, 35, told police she would not move unless she would be accompanied by her dog, two cats and two rabbits.

Outside her home she said: 'If my animals are going too, then i'm going, if it goes off it goes off.

'It's all over the top, what a waste of resources.'

Due to its central Location, the airport is popular with business-people heading to destinations around Europe

Four-and-a-half million passengers used London City last year and around 50 routes are now served

The Metropolitan Police confirmed officers were 'responding to a World War Two ordnance in the River Thames at George V Dock'.

A spokesman added: 'The ordnance was discovered as part of pre-planned work at London City Airport and reported to the police at 5:06am on Sunday, 11 February.

'Specialist officers and the Royal Navy have attended and confirmed the nature of the device.

'The operation to remove the ordnance is ongoing in partnership with our colleagues in the Royal Navy.

'At 10pm, an operational decision was made with the Royal Navy to implement a 214m (230 yard) exclusion zone to ensure that the ordnance can be safely dealt with whilst limiting any risk to the public.

'There will also be disruption to inbound and outbound flights during the operation. London City Airport are urging passengers to contact their airline before travelling.'

The closure comes as London City Airport plans its 400million redevelopment project (pictured, an artist's impression of the airport's new terminal)

City Airport plans to extend its terminal to accommodate more passengers, build seven new aircraft stands and create a parallel taxiway to boost runway capacity (pictured, an artist's impression of the new airport)

TfL tweeted the airport was shut and said road closures were in effect.

'The airport has been closed due to an emergency services incident. There are also additional local road closures due to the incident. Traffic is light in the area', a spokesman said.

The closure comes as London City Airport plans its 400million redevelopment project.

The privately-funded scheme includes extending the terminal to accommodate more passengers, building seven new aircraft stands and creating a parallel taxiway to boost runway capacity.

Two million more passengers per year will be able to use to use the airport from 2025, with 30,000 additional flights annually.Lisa Myers (pictured), 38, claims Paul Nightingale grabbed her bottom, kissed her neck and once forced his hand down her top

A policewoman was repeatedly groped by her inspector who demanded a 'birthday kiss' and suggested they share a hotel room, a tribunal heard.

Lisa Myers, 38, claims Paul Nightingale grabbed her bottom, kissed her neck and once forced his hand down her top.

However when she complained she was moved to a different office 20 miles away  and eventually quit the force. The married mother of two is now seeking damages from Mr Nightingale, who denies any sexual harassment.

At the time of the alleged incidents, Mr Nightingale  who is married  was a sergeant with the British Transport Police based at Liverpool Lime Street Station, but was acting in the role of inspector.

In a witness statement, Mrs Myers said Mr Nightingale started stroking her shoulders, neck and hair in the summer of 2015 after she complained of pain on her return from maternity leave.

She said: 'On each occasion, I turned my chair around and made it clear that his conduct was unacceptable.'

Mrs Myers said she did not report it at the time as she was worried about making allegations against a senior officer.

On one occasion she was due to attend a course in London and alleged Mr Nightingale said they could stay at the same hotel  'with the implication that we could share a room'.

Mrs Myers said the harassment briefly stopped when the 40-year-old was spoken to informally after she complained to her line manager  but resumed at their Christmas party that year.

'Mr Nightingale was whispering into my ear throughout the meal and making sexual comments, one being that he would like to have sex with me in a car,' she said. She claimed that after they did a first aid course together in 2016 Mr Nightingale 'threw himself on the floor and said: 'I need mouth to mouth'.'

She added that Mr Nightingale again stroked her neck and face on a night shift in April 2016, and that when she moved away he said: 'Oh, come on, no-one will know.' 'I said to Mr Nightingale that I did not want anything to do with him in a sexual manner,' she added.

'A short while later, Mr Nightingale came back and before I could turn around, he placed his hand inside my shirt and on to the top of my breast.'

When she again said 'No Paul', he allegedly replied: 'Go on, go on'. She said: 'I was extremely distressed by this encounter and felt shocked and scared.'

Also on that shift she claimed he kissed the side of her neck 'for a few seconds'. The following month she alleged Mr Nightingale cornered her in the mess room saying: 'We haven't had any alone time for a while.' She said: 'He pressed his whole body into my body with his genitals pressed against my bottom.'

At the time of the alleged incidents, Mr Nightingale (pictured)  who is married  was a sergeant with the British Transport Police based at Liverpool Lime Street Station, but was acting in the role of inspector

The next day he approached her and allegedly said: 'I am not in at the weekend as it is my birthday but I will see you on nights and I want my birthday kiss.'

At the end of May 2016, she formally accused Mr Nightingale of sexual harassment. However he was not suspended and stayed at the Liverpool office.

Mrs Myers was instead moved to BTP offices in Southport then Chester, the employment tribunal in Liverpool heard. She was signed off work with stress before quitting her 25,000-a-year job in January 2017 after 12 years of service.

Mr Nightingale has also subsequently left the force and is now understood to be manager of a DIY shop. The tribunal heard that Mr Nightingale claimed to an internal investigation that the pair had been having an affair, but resigned before he could be disciplined. British Transport Police earlier settled Mrs Myers's tribunal claim against them for sex discrimination and victimisation for an undisclosed sum believed to be in the region of 50,000.

Mrs Myers said: 'I spent 12 years as police officer. I had no intention of leaving BTP until I suffered sexual harassment at the hands of Mr Nightingale. His actions have blighted my life.'

Ahead of the hearing Mrs Myers's lawyer, Michael McDonough, of McDonough & Associates, said: 'Mrs Myers originally had a separate claim against BTP. She claimed that it was vicariously liable for Mr Nightingale's sexual harassment. BTP settled all her claims to her satisfaction and the terms are confidential.

'She is now seeking damages for injury to feelings and aggravated damages from Mr Nightingale totalling 25,000.'

BTP confirmed Mr Nightingale resigned in January last year.

He was due to face a misconduct hearing  instead he was added to a register of people ineligible to work for the police.

The tribunal, which is expected to last five days, continues.Britain is to reject American attempts to have captured Islamic State fighters tried in their home countries.

The Pentagon wants its allies to take responsibility for their own citizens.

But Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson will tell the Trump administration today that UK foreign fighters such as members of the Beatles terror cell will not be allowed back in Britain.

Londoners Alexanda Kotey (left), 34, and El Shafee Elsheikh (right), 29 were captured in Syria last month while trying to escape to Turkey, according to Kurdish-led forces. The pair are two of the four fanatics dubbed the Beatles because of their British accents

Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh helped Mohammed Jihadi John Emwazi to behead hostages including British aid workers David Haines and Alan Henning. Their capture in Syria was announced last week.

Mr Williamson will tell defence ministers at a summit in Rome that UK passport holders who have travelled to fight for Islamic State should be tried in Syria.

A senior Pentagon official told reporters travelling with US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis to Rome that militants should instead be turned over to face justice in their home countries.

El Shafee Elsheikh, who was known as one of the brutal terrorists known as The Beatles because of his British accent, is being quizzed by UK and US agents

Kathryn Wheelbarger said: Were working with the coalition on foreign fighter detainees, and generally expect these detainees to return to their country of origin for disposition.

Defence ministers have the obligation and the opportunity to really explain to their other ministers or their other cabinet officials just the importance to the mission, to the campaign, to make sure that theres an answer to this problem.

A source close to Mr Williamson said: The day these barbaric terrorists turned their back on this country in pursuit of an evil agenda of bloodshed and slaughter, they forfeited their right ever to return.

They are not British subjects and should pay the price for their crimes in Syria.

Kotey and Elsheikh were dual nationals but had their UK citizenship taken away to stop them re-entering the country.

Miss Wheelbarger said the capacity problem was very real, adding that at one point the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces were capturing as many as 40 militants a day. The SDF is holding hundreds of foreign fighters, including British-Canadian Muslim convert Jack Letts.

British ministers say that suspected foreign fighters allowed home might walk free because it is so difficult to collect evidence against them.

Emwazi, 27, was killed by a drone strike in November 2015 in Raqqa, Syria  the supposed capital of Islamic State.

Kotey, 34, and Elsheikh, 29, are being interrogated by British and American agents. They and the fourth member of the gang  Aine Davis  all came from West London.

Davis, 33, was jailed in Turkey last year after he was caught trying to sneak over the border with Syria. It is feared that Kotey was planning to return to Britain and wreak mayhem.The American tourist charged with killing Melbourne man Benjamin Robb in Thailand acted after the 42-year-old had been teasing a female barmaid, police say.

Jose Manuel Polanco Jr, 43, initially fled from Ruby Club in Pattaya after the altercation on Friday night, but later surrendered to local authorities and was charged with manslaughter, news.com.au reported.

Police say Mr Robb had lifted a Thai woman up by her neck at the bar, and squeezed until her face turned blue.

This reportedly angered Polanco, who asked him to stop, and became physical when he didn't.

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New Yorker Jose Manuel Polanco Jr, 43, has been charged with manslaughter after the death of Melbourne man Benjamin Robb

Benjamin Robb, 42, was drinking in the red light district of Pattaya, Thailand, when he was allegedly attacked by Polanco in Ruby Club

'Polanco saw the incident and told [him] to stop it. [Mr Robb] didn't stop and started fighting [with Polanco] a number of times,' Pattaya police Captain Sombat Kaewpoonmuk told News Corp.

Following the fight, Mr Robb was taken to hospital, but later died of a brain injury.

Polanco has denied the charge, and said he was acting in self-defence, but did not apply for bail.

Witnesses claimed over social media an American tourist had approached Robb and threw him across the bar before punching him several times in the face.

Others claimed Mr Robb had been in an argument with four or five foreign men, all of whom were intoxicated and aggressive.

Pictured: The passport of US man Jose Manuel Polanco Jr who handed himself in to police after an Australian man died in a brutal bar bashing in Thailand

An American man then allegedly approached the Australian as he lay on the floor and 'stamped on his head multiple times', according to an eyewitness who recounted the horrific incident in a Facebook group.

Bar staff contacted paramedics, who rushed to the venue just after 7.30pm as a 'patron with medical experience' put Mr Robb in the recovery position and attempted to administer first aid.

Mr Robb (pictured) was taken to hospital after the attack and died soon after of brain injury

'He [the attacker] smashed his foot from above in the guys [victim's] face at least 10-15 times with full force. That whole incident lasted probably 20 seconds', the witness wrote.

These reports have devastated Mr Robb's family, a friend of the Melbourne man has said.

The friend told News Corp Mr Robb was 'coward punched' by a single attacker.

'Ben hit his head on the ground hard after the American guy punched him in the face,' they said.

'It was a coward punch. There is an investigation going on right now.'

The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed the man's death to Daily Mail Australia.

A spokeswoman said DFAT is: 'providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian man who died in Thailand'.

Polanco Jr (pictured) was reportedly present at the time of the incident but left the bar following the fight, before turning himself into authorities

Ruby Lounge has also released a statement regarding the incident, and confirmed that no other customer of staff member was injured during the incident.

'An altercation lasting less than 20 seconds between two customers on Friday night resulted in one person being taken to hospital with serious looking injuries, which sadly resulted in him passing away in the early hours of Saturday morning.

'The other individual involved handed himself in to police and it is understood he is to remain in custody until a court appearance in 10 days or so.

'Whilst our thoughts remain with the victims relatives, we would also like to thank the emergency services for their prompt and professional attention in dealing with the incident.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Ruby Club for further comment.An 84-year-old woman opened fire on her neighbor's young children because they were making too much noise, according to police reports.

Betty Frances Sanders, of Anderson, in rural northern California, was at home with her husband when she overheard the kids, aged between eight and then, playing outside, the LA Times reports.

She and her husband approached her neighbor's fence to complain to their parents that their children had been riding motorcycles round and generally 'being noisy.'

Betty Frances Sanders is accused of shooting at her neighbor's children for being noisy

They quickly got into a row, and as the dispute escalated, Sanders reportedly pulled out her gun and shot in the direction of the neighbors' kids who were just 20 ft away.

The shocked children's mother later told police they 'could hear the bullets going over her children's heads'.

Sanders, of Anderson, in rural northern California , was at home with her husband when she overheard the kids, aged between eight and ten, playing outside (pictured are their neighboring homes)

No one was injured in the shooting.

The kids' mother called 911 and Sanders was arrested at her home. Police from the Shasta County Sheriff's Office confirmed they also found her gun.

She was booked on suspicion of assault with a firearm and child endangerment, and has posted $50,000 bail. She is due in court in March.New York voters view Gov. Andrew Cuomo less favorably and give him lower job approval scores than they did in January, according to a new Siena College poll released Monday.

The poll found 53 percent of voters have a favorable view of Cuomo, down from 62 percent last month. His favorability among Democrats remains high (68 percent), but two-thirds of Republicans view him unfavorably.

Cuomo's favorable rating is highest in New York City, where 62 percent of voters view him favorably. His favorability among downstate suburban voters is at 55 percent. In upstate New York, however, he is viewed favorably by only 36 percent of respondents. Most upstaters surveyed  58 percent  said they have an unfavorable opinion of the Democratic governor.

"After hitting his second-term high favorability rating last month, Governor Cuomo's favorability, job performance and re-elect ratings all hit significant speed bumps this month," Siena pollster Steve Greenberg said.

After half of voters said Cuomo was doing an excellent or good job in January, 45 percent of voters this month said that was the case. More than half of those surveyed (53 percent) said he is doing a fair or poor job as governor.With his voice supposedly cracking with emotion, Ian Huntley has at last issued what appears to be a grovelling apology for murdering ten-year-old schoolgirls Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, confessing: I think about them every day.

Giving every impression of begging for some form of public forgiveness, the notorious predatory paedophile, who has now spent more than 15 years behind bars, has declared himself to be so terribly, terribly sorry for what I have done.

I am so sorry for the pain I have caused to the family and friends of Holly and Jessica, for the pain I have caused to my family and friends, and for the pain I have caused the community of Soham, he said.

I am genuinely, genuinely sorry and it breaks my heart when it is reported I have no remorse, that I relish something. I do not.

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Giving every impression of begging for some form of public forgiveness, the notorious predatory paedophile, who has now spent more than 15 years behind bars, has declared himself to be so terribly, terribly sorry for what I have done

Huntley admits he cant change anything about the awful summer evening in 2002 when he cut short the lives of the two young friends who had just enjoyed a family barbecue and were walking to their local sweetshop. Neither can he remove that day from history.

His self-pitying remarks came in the form of a leaked recording of a telephone conversation from prison, and it is the first time he has been heard speaking for more than a decade.

They were dismissed yesterday by senior police sources as a hollow apology which would cause further upset to Holly and Jessicas relatives.

Having murdered Holly (left) and Jessica in cold blood, and almost certainly having sexually abused them, he then coldly attempted to cover up his crime, dumping and incinerating not just the Manchester United shirts that the girls were wearing, but also their bodies, which were dumped in a remote ditch

Huntley, now 44, said hed like it to be known that he can now understand and accept the nature of the appalling crimes that made him one of the most reviled criminals in Britain, and is sorry for the way I made the country feel and how it has affected people.

Lest we are tempted to think that Huntley has got off lightly, hed also like to stress that in addition to feeling remorse, he has spent recent years being properly punished for his crimes.

Life behind bars is lonely, monotonous, and often highly uncomfortable, he says. Inmates are forced to eat shocking food and sit cooped up for hours every day.

He has made only two or three friends, has suffered a lot of health problems, and has twice been driven to attempt suicide.

Huntley continues to cling to the claim  advanced by the defence at his 2003 trial  that Holly Wells died because of some sort of freak accident

Huntley could have avoided subjecting the families to the trauma of a full trial by confessing to the murder of Jessica (pictured) and the manslaughter of Holly

I miss cuddling up on my sofa with a girlfriend, watching a DVD on television with a can of beer, walking the dog, going to the shops, nipping out for a pizza if you fancy a pizza, being able to do what you want to do when you want to do it, he said.

It is the very small mundane things that you actually do every day and dont think about you miss the most.

Compassion is, of course, a noble emotion.

But should any reader feel a shred of sympathy for the notorious criminal, they should be warned to ignore every one of his crocodile tears.

This is, after all, a man who spent years exploiting vulnerable young girls, before using his position of trust as a local school caretaker to entice his two final victims into his clutches.

Having murdered Holly and Jessica in cold blood, and almost certainly having sexually abused them, he then coldly attempted to cover up his crime, dumping and incinerating not just the Manchester United shirts that the girls were wearing, but also their bodies, which were dumped in a remote ditch.

Then, in a breathtaking display of cynicism, he took part in missing persons searches and gave heart-rending interviews to TV news crews and journalists as the people of Soham desperately tried to find the missing girls.

After his arrest, despite the huge weight of evidence against him, Huntley then refused to confess to having murdered the girls, forcing the families of his victims to go through the trauma of a full trial, which, incidentally, cost the taxpayer 715,000 for his legal aid bill alone.

One can only imagine what those poor parents  who have largely maintained a dignified silence since his conviction  must have thought yesterday when they read of Huntley casually imagining the lives their lost daughters might now be living

One can only imagine what those poor parents  who have largely maintained a dignified silence since his conviction  must have thought yesterday when they read of Huntley casually imagining the lives their lost daughters might now be living.

I know those girls would be 26 this year, with families of their own, jobs and lives, he said.

I thought about them when they were turning 21 and when they were turning 18. I know no matter what I say that people are not going to think any better of me.

I know that. I dont expect it, but I would much rather people have the truth about how I feel.

Dig into the detail of his comments  which emerged via a recording leaked from HMP Frankland, Huntleys supposedly maximum-security prison near Durham  and several other salient facts quickly emerge.

First, for a man guilty of one of the most appalling crimes in British history, Huntley leads a remarkably cosseted existence behind bars (of which more later). Secondly, despite his grandstanding, the self-pitying killer has not yet properly accepted his guilt.

Instead, Huntley continues to cling to the claim  advanced by the defence at his 2003 trial  that Holly Wells died because of some sort of freak accident.

According to this fiction, which was dismissed by the jury at the time, she came into his house in Soham, Cambridgeshire, because she was suffering from a nosebleed, and needed to clean herself up, before managing to drown in the bath.

Huntley argues this put him in a state of panic, during which he decided to kill Jessica Chapman to stop her raising the alarm.

I maintain that the first one was a genuine accident, he said in the leaked recording.

OK, the second one I panicked, and once she tried leaving the house I realised I could not leave the house. And whilst I said in court that I just acted instinctively, I knew I had to stop her leaving the house.

Even if this had been true, Huntley could have avoided subjecting the families to the trauma of a full trial by confessing to the murder of Jessica and the manslaughter of Holly.

However, he now insists that was never going to happen because he wanted to be able to say what happened in court.

The second obvious conclusion to be drawn from Huntleys self-pitying spiel is that parts of his story might have been dreamt up by a PR man seeking to turn around his tattered reputation.

Maxine Carr was cleared of two charges of aiding an offender but served 21 months in jail for perverting the course of justice

We dont yet know how the tape recording of his remarks became public, though it may well have been made during a telephone call to one of his approved contacts outside prison.

But whatever their provenance, they seem very carefully pitched indeed. A cynic might even wonder if this notorious killer actually wanted them to be leaked.

Take, for example, his reported comment that  unlike the so-called black cab rapist, John Worboys  he never intends to apply for parole, out of consideration for the victims families.

I accepted a long time ago my life was in jail, he said. I dont really think about getting out: it is a non-starter.

'I hear about other prisoners coming up for parole. That makes you think a bit. [But] I will never apply for it.

I will never ever apply to leave prison. Never ever apply for parole. I will die in prison. I accept that. I have come to terms with that a long time ago.

Time will tell, of course.

But while such contrite remarks may strike a chord with readers who believe in the Christian value of redemption, they are in Huntleys case almost entirely irrelevant: he wont be eligible for parole until 2043 at the very earliest.

Equally important, where this cynical attempt to burnish his image is concerned, are Huntleys continued efforts to ensure that some of the public anger over the killings is directed at his former girlfriend, Maxine Carr.

Carr, who was visiting her mother in Grimsby at the time of the murders, was originally persuaded to give police a false alibi for her lover, claiming she was at home with him on the night in question.

For this, she was jailed for three-and-a-half years after being convicted of perverting the course of justice.

In court, she claimed to have been brainwashed by Huntley, who had previously been investigated for sexual offences against at least nine young women.

Giving evidence, she said he convinced her that his chequered past would see them unfairly targeted by detectives.

Carr had a child in 2014 and went on to marry that same year at a luxury hotel

Carr has since been released and moved on with her life, thanks, in part, to a lifelong anonymity order.

She had a child in 2014 and went on to marry that same year at a luxury hotel.

In the tapes, Huntley insists that Carr was a liar, while in the same breath adding that I wish her every happiness.

In court, she told some lies in order to distance herself from me, and I understand that, he said.

I was a little shocked at how far she actually did go and my solicitors did advise me to be more upfront with Maxine.

He then added: I hope she is happy in what she is doing. I just hope she has found happiness. I hope she has been able to move on from all this.

Whether Huntley has moved on from their relationship is a moot point.

According to a leaked prison service memo obtained by the Mail when he moved to HMP Frankland in 2008, his cell in the healthcare wing of the maximum security institution (where other inmates include the Yorkshire Ripper Peter Sutcliffe and Levi Bellfield, the killer of Milly Dowler) was plastered with pictures of his ex-girlfriend.

The 12 ft by 10 ft room also contained personal freeview TV, a Sony CD player, stereo and a state-of-the-art games console. However, in his comments this week, Huntley insisted that people have no idea how tough life is behind bars.

When you come into prison, you think there are many things you will actually miss. But it is the very small mundane things that you actually do every day and dont think about that you miss the most.

Being able to go to the shops when you fancy something. Walking my dog. Going for a drive to relieve stress, he said.

People go on about prison being cushy . . . They go on about having your PlayStations, your Xboxes and DVDs and things like this.

Well, if people on the outside were to sit cooped up in a room doing the same thing day after day, year in year out, not being able to do anything else but sit in a room, they would very soon get bored with it and it would become a difficult environment for them.

Asked how he now passes the time, Huntley said: I am a painter. I play chess. I play Scrabble. Do crosswords.

He also claims to spend prison wages earned from painting and decorating ordering takeaway food from the prison canteen, adding boastfully: The prison food is shocking. We send out for meals like fish and chips every weekend.

Yesterday, prison sources insisted he has never been able to order takeaways from outside.

Over the years, Huntley has attempted suicide twice  he is still on antidepressants  and has twice been seriously assaulted by fellow inmates.

I never expected to survive my overdoses, he said. I have committed a horrendous crime and am where I belong. I make no qualms about that. I dont believe I should be free, not because I believe I am a danger but because two young girls are dead and I do not deserve to be released.

On that, if very little else about this vile killers self-pitying remarks, it is hard to disagree.The charitys deputy Penny Lawrence (pictured) said she was ashamed and took full responsibility

The Oxfam scandal widened dramatically last night after claims of sex abuse spread to its charity shops.

A whistle-blower revealed that the beleaguered charity has faced multiple allegations, including alleged abuse of children by its volunteers.

And it emerged that Oxfam had not carried out criminal record checks on the 23,000 volunteers who staff its 650 shops. The Mail has seen figures showing that 123 alleged incidents of sexual harassment have been investigated in its stores in just nine years.

Helen Evans, the charitys former safeguarding chief, said she had begged senior staff, ministers and regulators to act on sexual abuse allegations she had uncovered.

She also revealed that Oxfam staff had faced allegations of trading aid for sex, attempted rape, sexual exploitation, sexual coercion and abuse. A survey found more than one in ten staff from programmes in three separate countries had seen or experienced sexual assaults.

Yesterday the scandal, which began with revelations that Oxfam workers had used prostitutes in Haiti in 2011, claimed its first scalp.

The charitys deputy Penny Lawrence said she was ashamed and took full responsibility.

Helen Evans, the charitys former safeguarding chief, said she had begged senior staff, ministers and regulators to act on sexual abuse allegations she had uncovered

However chief executive Mark Goldring was refusing to step down. As the scandal intensified:

The Charity Commission launched an inquiry amid concerns Oxfam might not have fully and frankly disclosed all details about the allegations in Haiti;

The Mail located the scene of an orgy in Haiti in an Oxfam villa;

Oxfam apologised to the people of Britain and Haiti following crisis talks with the International Development Secretary;

Penny Mordaunt told Oxfam it had until the end of the week to help ensure culprits were brought to justice;

The European Commission threatened to withdraw 29million of funding;

One Oxfam employee told the BBC that sexual abuse allegations at the charity were well known;

The former boss of Britains aid department faced questions amid allegations of a cover-up.

Figures seen by the Mail show that, over the past nine years, 268 safeguarding incidents  allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse  have been reported by Oxfam.

Of these, 110 were abroad and 123 in the charitys trading sector  its shops. Fifty-two incidents were recorded in charity shops in 2016/17  suggesting the problem has got worse.

Miss Evans told Channel 4 News she was concerned for those in senior leadership positions who knew the scale of what we were dealing with and in my view did not adequately respond to that.

She told the programme that within a year of starting her work, the scale of the problem had become clear. One case concerned a shop manager who is alleged to have attempted to force a young volunteer to drop charges against an adult male volunteer who was said to have assaulted them both.

Oxfam have not carried out criminal record checks on the 23,000 volunteers who staff its 650 shops

Miss Evans says she made it clear that Oxfam was doing too little to protect children from harm: These are 14-year-old children and if parents knew that those adults were not checked they would not be sending those children into those shops.

She said three allegations were made in just one day against Oxfam staff overseas. She said: There was one of a woman being coerced to have sex in a humanitarian response by another aid worker, another case where a woman had been coerced in exchange for aid and another one where it had come to our attention where a member of staff had been struck off for sexual abuse and hadnt disclosed that. We were then concerned about what he might be doing  that was three allegations in one day.

FORMER DFID BOSS FACES QUESTIONS OVER 'COVER-UP' The former boss of Britain's aid department faces questions over his part in an alleged 'cover-up' over sex abuse involving Oxfam. A Tory MP asked what Sir Mark Lowcock  permanent secretary at the Department for International Development between 2011 and 2017  knew about claims of sexual harassment in the aid sector. It comes after former aid minister Priti Patel claimed there was a 'culture of denial' across the sector about the extent of the problem. She said she believed officials at Dfid knew about abuse at charities and in United Nations agencies but did little to counter it. Last night Nigel Evans, who sits on the Commons international development committee, said Sir Mark was in the post at the time when Oxfam workers were accused of using prostitutes in Haiti. Sir Mark stepped down last year and is now under-secretary general for humanitarian affairs at the UN. Mr Evans said: 'We need answers from the department to see what they knew and what actions they took to clean up Oxfam and whole international development arena. If this is happening in Haiti, it's happening all over the world. 'Sir Mark has definitely got questions to answer. We need to know what he knew and what actions he took. 'We need to know why it is that the secretary of state was kept out of the loop.' A spokesman for Sir Mark at the UN declined to comment. Former aid secretary Miss Patel said on Sunday that 'people knew in Dfid' about wider problems of sex abuse in the aid sector. She said she had not been aware of allegations about Oxfam but had raised directly concerns about abuse. Yesterday Downing Street refused to say it has full confidence in aid officials after the claims. Asked if Theresa May retained full confidence in senior Dfid officials, No 10 said: 'The Prime Minister, of course, has full confidence in the Secretary of State to lead this department ... which has already taken action on this issue.' Advertisement

Miss Evans also detailed the findings of a confidential survey carried out in 2014 which found more than one in ten staff from three country programmes were reporting, witnessing or experiencing sexual assault, with 7 per cent of staff in one country reporting, witnessing or experiencing rape or attempted rape.

She was concerned this represented the tip of the iceberg. But she claimed the senior leadership team failed to recognise the importance of her concerns and did not adequately respond.

She said she tried personally to discuss the paper detailing the issues to a meeting of the chief executives leadership team, but her contribution was cancelled at short notice.

When she sent an email to Mr Goldring outlining the problems, he replied: You are right that this is a serious issue.

Miss Evans said: I was extremely concerned about that and I wrote to the chief executive to ask why I hadnt had the opportunity to present those findings and the opportunity to discuss the concerns that I had. And the response I had back was that they felt that everything that needed to be said had been said in my report.

In despair, Miss Evans quit her position, and then went to the Charity Commission with her concerns.

She said the regulator did not even return her phone calls until, at the end of 2017  two years after she first sounded the alarm  it finally launched an inquiry.

Miss Evans also raised her concerns with her local MP who wrote to the Department for International Development, Home Office and the Childrens Commissioner. No action was taken.

A spokesman for the Charity Commission said: We took the concerns Miss Evans raised very seriously and engaged with Oxfam on a formal regulatory basis to address them.

Last night Mr Goldring admitted his organisation had not acted quickly enough after Miss Evans raised her concerns. He said criminal record checks were introduced but admitted that not all volunteers are checked.

I certainly apologise for not acting fast enough, I think we did take them seriously and we responded on many different fronts, he said. Many of the incidents in shops were actually perpetrated by members of the public not by Oxfam staff but its absolutely important that we report them and we take them seriously.

We started a programme of first checking all new managers we extended it in 2015 to all previously serving managers and then we carried on extending it to all volunteers who are in supervising positions.

We have 23,000 volunteers, many of them themselves minors, and so we dont do checks. We do references but we dont do criminal record checks on every volunteer. But we do on every volunteer who is left in charge in a supervisory position.

He said he did not have to resign because he was not chief executive in 2011 when the Haiti scandal occurred.

Last night Oxfam said in a statement it had taken action to improve safety in its shop network. The spokesman said: We ensure all staff are trained in working with young people and vulnerable adults, have appropriate background checks and know how to respond to any issues raised.

Unmask aid workers, so we can put them on trial, says minister

By Arthur Martin

The aid workers who are suspected of having sex with underage prostitutes in Haiti must be named so they can be prosecuted, Oxfam was told last night.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt told the charity to send all the evidence of alleged criminal behaviour by its staff to a host of law enforcement agencies.

Files on each suspect are being sent to Haiti and to the countries where the aid workers come from.

It paves the way for prosecutions to be considered in the Caribbean state or in the home countries of suspects.

Miss Mordaunt described the behaviour of the aid workers as appalling and said Oxfam must demonstrate the moral leadership necessary to rebuild the trust of the British people.

The Oxfam Charity's CEO Mark Goldring (L) and Chair Caroline Thomson (R) leave the Department of International Trade and Development in London

Senior figures at the charity, including chairman Caroline Thomson and chief executive Mark Goldring, yesterday made a full and unqualified apology to Britain and Haiti at a private meeting with Miss Mordaunt.

They spoke of the deep sense of disgrace and shame that they and their organisation feel about what has happened, and set out the actions they will now take to put things right and prevent such horrific abuses happening in future, she said. In the 21st century, it is utterly despicable that sexual exploitation and abuse continues to exist in the aid sector.

Oxfam assured me they are cooperating fully with the authorities in Haiti and will do so in any other country where abuse has been exposed.

Separately, Bocchit Edmond, Haitis ambassador to the UK, said his country is shocked and appalled at the charity for allowing senior staff to leave the country without being investigated by local police.

He warned that a paedophile ring might have been operating in the aftermath of the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake and threatened to take legal action against Oxfam.

In a furious broadside at the charity, Mr Edmond said: That crime should never have been committed. Your mission was not to exploit, to sexually exploit those girls.

Your mission was not to go to solicit prostitutes, your mission was to go and help those people in need, not to use your power and advantage to exploit them.

He called on the charity and the British Government to identify those suspected of wrongdoing so they can be prosecuted in the international system.

Oxfam has been accused of covering up claims that its aid workers used prostitutes in Haiti in 2011.

Prostitution is illegal in Haiti, as is having sex with someone under the age of 18.

Four members of staff were dismissed and three, including the charitys country director Roland van Hauwermeiren, resigned before the end of a 2011 investigation.

Oxfam did not inform the Department for International Development at the time that this case involved sexual misconduct.

Mr Edmond added: For the executives to know these crimes were committed and to allow those people to leave without informing the authorities is wrong. We might be dealing with a paedophile ring. It was a crime. Prostitution is illegal and we believe they may have been underage kids.

On Sunday, Mr Goldring claimed the charity did not report the suspects  none of whom are British  to Haitian police because it feared this would endanger the women involved. Mr Edmond said such a response was wrong and really insulting.

Oxfam should recognise they failed and showed a lack of leadership, he said. How do they know the women would have been endangered?

The charitys deputy chief executive was forced to quit her 99,000-a-year job yesterday after taking full responsibility for the sordid behaviour of her staff. Penny Lawrence said she was ashamed the alleged use of underage prostitutes took place on her watch admitted that the charity failed to adequately act upon concerns by whistleblowers.

The former teacher shares a 1.4million home with her family in Summertown, a suburb of Oxford. Her husband, Graham Bray, 61, is chief operating officer at charity Young Lives.

Miss Lawrence joined the charity in 2006 as programme director before being appointed deputy chief executive in 2016.

It was during her tenure as programme director that Oxfam staff allegedly committed sex offences in Chad in 2006 and later in Haiti.

Mr van Hauwermeiren was in charge of the Chad mission. Despite allegations of illegal behaviour by his team, he was later appointed to the Haiti job by Miss Lawrence. It is now clear these allegations  involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad  were raised before he moved to Haiti, she said.

As program director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility.

I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress this has caused to Oxfams supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us.

The announcement is likely to increase pressure on Mr Goldring, who is reported to have said he will resign if the board of trustees ask for his head. The scandal has prompted the Department for International Development to create a new unit to urgently review safeguarding across all parts of the aid sector.

Miss Mordaunt has sent a letter all UK charities working overseas  including Oxfam  to demand they do more to fully protect vulnerable people.

Andrew MacLeod, the former chief of operations of the UNs Emergency Coordination Centre claimed predatory paedophiles were now targeting charities in order to access children in the developing world. Mr MacLeod, who now works for the charity Hear Their Cries, said: The impact of sex tourism laws make it unlawful for anybody to have sex with children under the age of 16 anywhere in the world or aid, abet or support that. What we have seen is that predatory paedophiles are now going to the developing world to get access to children.A seven-year-old boy remains in a critical condition after falling from the window of a unit in Bankstown Monday night.

The boy fell from a bedroom window of a third-floor unit on Chapel Road about 7.20pm.

He suffered critical head injuries.

The boy has been conveyed to Sydney Children's Hospital in Randwick with critical head injuries

The boy was rushed to Bankstown Hospital by family members.

He was then conveyed to Sydney Childrens Hospital, Randwick, suffering critical head injuries.

Detectives from Bankstown are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

This follows a similar incident in the same area around this time last year, when a five-year-old girl and a three-year-old boy fell from the third-floor window of a Bankstown apartment block on the morning of February 12th.

More to come.Boasting a 25ft swimming pool and a charming sun terrace, this is the luxury apartment block in Haiti where Oxfam aid workers cavorted with young prostitutes at a sex party likened to a 'Caligula orgy'.

Terracotta walls, palm trees and floral arrangements give the gated complex the feel of a Mediterranean holiday villa.

The six-bedroom serviced complex, which can sleep 12, was rented to Oxfam for around 1,200 a month  an astronomical sum by Haitian standards.

The Daily Mail found it in a rundown part of Haitian capital Port au Prince after three sources confirmed it was used for the alleged sex parties.

Each of the rooms comes fully furnished so that aid workers do not need to buy their own furniture.

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Oxfam workers cavorted with prostitutes at a sex party likened to 'Caligula orgy' at a luxury apartment block in Haiti

The complex  known locally as 'the whorehouse'  has a living room with a flat screen TV and three comfy seats with plenty of space for entertaining.

It was here that video footage was said to have been filmed showing aid workers partying with prostitutes who wore Oxfam T-shirts.

One source said at least five half-naked girls were running around at a 'full-on Caligula orgy'. Such gatherings were referred to as 'young meat barbecues'.

The villa comes with an armed guard as well a 12ft security gate with barbed wire on the top.

By contrast, some of the other houses in the area still bear the scars from the 2010 earthquake, which killed 220,000 and left 1.5million people homeless.

The hilly and chaotic streets are choked with pedestrians, traders and traffic. There are potholes everywhere and cars bounce around on the uneven surfaces.

The apartment block was rented out to Oxfam for around 1,200 - a huge sum by Haitian standards

The Daily Mail found the block in a rundown par of Haitian capital Port au Prince after three sources confirmed it was used for the alleged sex parties

On the street, the traders try to scratch out a living selling rice, eggs and beans from sacks supplied by aid agencies.

A Haitian woman wearing dirty jeans who was cooking meat on a grill in the street said: 'I don't think they should be doing that here. Oxfam were supposed to help people, not do this'.

Another local man added: 'This shouldn't have happened. This neighbourhood was really struggling after the earthquake.'

The villa sits in a densely populated neighbourhood called Delmas, which is home to 600,000. Locals said it was one of the worst affected places after the earthquake in 2010.

There was no electricity and the poor quality housing meant that more buildings collapsed than in other areas, causing more deaths.

Workers at the property confirmed that Oxfam staff used to stay there, as did a neighbour.

A former driver who used to work for Oxfam said: 'I left before all this came out, but I heard there were lots of girls at these parties. They used to have girls up there all the time'.

Last night another source told the Mail: 'This is where those Oxfam sex parties took place. They happened on more than one occasion and they weren't very subtle about it.

'I think they thought they could get away with anything. They nearly did.'

The complex  known locally as 'the whorehouse'  has a living room with a flat screen TV and three comfy seats with plenty of space for entertaining

The villa comes with an armed guard as well a 12ft security gate with barbed wire on the top

Another source added: 'The aid workers lived in a guesthouse rented by Oxfam that they called the 'pink apartments'  they called it 'the whorehouse'. They were throwing big parties with prostitutes.

'These girls were wearing Oxfam T-shirts, running around half-naked, it was a like a full-on Caligula orgy. It was unbelievable. It was crazy. At one party there were at least five girls and two of them had Oxfam white t-shirts on.'

The group of aid workers was said to have control over the team of drivers hired by the charity to move staff.

A source said: 'They said, 'Listen, if you want your contract to be extended we need girls and you need to pick them up'.' Oxfam's country director there was Roland van Hauwermeiren, 68, a Belgium national who has worked for the charity for many years.

He admitted using prostitutes at a different villa  known as the Eagle's Nest rented for him by Oxfam with charitable funds, according to a report.

After the allegations surfaced, investigators flew into Haiti and carried out covert surveillance on some suspects.

Widza Bryant (pictured), a former Oxfam worker in Haiti, said she flagged concerns and was ignored

Contact was made with Oxfam-employed drivers used by the group to bring women to their house, and the prostitutes themselves.

Separately, three sources said they had concerns that some of the prostitutes were girls aged 14 to 16, below the age of consent in Haiti, which is 18.

Meanwhile, it emerged that senior Oxfam workers were using prostitutes in Haiti as far back as 2004 as part of a deep-seated 'culture of entitlement'. A former employee at the charity said she once nearly walked in on two senior male staff arguing with prostitutes about the price for their services.

The incident happened at an Oxfam apartment in the Petionville area of the capital. One of them men was said to be an Oxfam finance director and the other worked as programme officer. One was said to be French.

The former employee said: 'I went to knock on their door one morning and I heard voices coming from inside so I asked the security guard.

'He said that the men had come back drunk and bought some prostitutes. They apparently did not agree a price and the women were arguing about it with them now.

'I went back to my car and called and texted them to say I was there because I did not want to go in and see that. I felt very uncomfortable.

'They came out a little while later and seemed very relaxed as if nothing happened'.

Oxfam's country director there was Roland van Hauwermeiren (pictured), a Belgium national who has worked for the charity for many years. He admitted using prostitutes at a different villa but denied involvement in the 'Caligula orgy'

The former employee did not speak up at the time because she felt intimidated because the men were senior to her.

She said: 'Oxfam staff used to go to clubs that were really heavy, you could get drugs there and there were lots of women. One of them was called Jet Set.

'They used to park outside with their vehicles which had Oxfam logos on them. They did not seem to care.

'They had a culture of entitlement and there were many instances when they behaved inappropriately with Haitian females who worked alongside them.'

She said that she had spoken to others who worked at Oxfam in 2010 around the time of the allegations about the orgy with prostitutes and they confirmed that it did take place. Asked about Roland van Hauwermeiren, she added: 'He was supposed to represent everything good about the charity but instead he did this.

'When you have this kind of behaviour going on for so long it just becomes part of the culture and people think they are entitled to it.

'It's never going to change unless people speak out.'

Widza Bryant, who worked in human resources for Oxfam in Haiti from 2009 for three years, said she raised concerns and was ignored.

'There was a lot of rumours on the ground about management and leaders exploiting the locals, sexually and in other ways, to get jobs and to have good standing,' she told the BBC.

'So these were ongoing rumours that would come to me through the drivers and other employees. So in many occasions I would share those rumours with my boss,' Miss Bryant added.A massive inferno broke out at a construction site in Sydney's Circular Quay, sparking chaos among workers stuck on the building's roof and bringing morning traffic to a standstill.

Images from the scene on the corner of Pitt and Alfred Streets showed construction workers on top of the building's roof evacuating as flames raged beneath them about 9am.

Shocked onlookers watched as giant fireballs fell from the sky and loud explosions rang through the city centre as flames tore through the building.

The fire started on 'one of the lower levels of the building' but spread up via a flammable mesh screening wrapped around scaffolding outside the building, Superintendent Ticehurst of NSW police said.

Engineers are now inspecting the material as police investigate if the fire was started deliberately.

Superintendent Ticehurst added: 'It is not known if there are any suspicious circumstances; inquiries are continuing.'

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A massive inferno has broken out at a construction site in Sydney's Circular Quay

The flames broke out at the construction site about 9am on Tuesday, while workers remained on the roof

Chaos broke out among the workers and morning traffic was brought to a standstill

Fire and Rescue New South Wales said multiple crews responded to the fire, which engulfed the popular tourist destination in a thick black haze

Shocked onlookers watched as giant fireballs fell from the sky and loud explosions rang through the city centre as flames tore through the building

The building is on the site of a $1billion One Circular Quay harbourside development that was sold only two weeks ago by China's biggest property developer, Wanda.

Witness Olivia Mocevakaca, 26, was working on a wharf nearby when she heard four massive eruptions just before 9am.

'It shook the wharf ... there were four explosions and it shook the wharf,' she told the Daily Telegraph.

'There were fireballs from the top falling to the ground.

'It really did vibrate the whole area, we thought a train had crashed.'

Fire and Rescue New South Wales said 15 crews responded to the fire, which engulfed the popular tourist destination in a thick black haze.

Loud gas explosions were reportedly ringing out every minute while more than a dozen workers remained on-site.

Loud gas explosions were reportedly ringing out every minute while more than a dozen workers remained on-site

Billows of thick black smoke blanketed the area in Sydney's Circular Quay on Tuesday morning

Southbound lanes on Pitt Street were shut down to all traffic and people were told to avoid the area at all costs

Witnesses said the construction workers on top of the building were narrowly rescued just before the explosions, 7 News reported.

The 13 workers on-site were treated by paramedics for smoke inhalation and didn't require transport to hospital, a NSW Ambulance spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia.

Gas cylinders on the bottom floors are believed to have contributed to the blaze, which is now under investigation.

It remains unclear if the cylinders were involved in the fire's ignition, a NSW Fire and Rescue spokesperson said.

Southbound lanes on Pitt Street were shut down to all traffic and people were told to avoid the area at all costs.

Crowds gathered near Circular Quay on Tuesday morning as firecrews tackled the blaze

Gas cylinders on the bottom floors are believed to have contributed the blaze, which is now under investigation

NSW Fire and Rescue said the fire was contained moments after 10am, and fully extinguished about 12pm

Witnesses said the construction workers on top of the building were narrowly rescued just before the explosions

Firecrews remained on-site battling the blaze after it was contained about 10am

NSW Fire and Rescue said all people have been evacuated from the site, while 13 were treated for smoke inhalation

All trains on the City Circle were shut down for about 30 minutes due to the fire, with Circular Quay station being closed entirely.

Trains to the north shore were still operating out of nearby Wynyard and Town Hall stations.

Normal services resumed on the City Circle shortly before 10am.

NSW Fire and Rescue said the fire was contained moments later, and fully extinguished about 12pm.

Two weeks ago it was revealed Wanda had sold the fire-ravaged site to the son of Chinese businessman and political donor Huang Xiangmo.

Wanda had been planning to develop a luxury hotel, 186 apartments and space for retail on the site.

The company announced the purchaser was AWH Investment Group, of which Mr Huang ceased to be a shareholder about a month ago.

The building is on the site of the $1billion One Circular Quay harbourside development (artist's impression) which was until recently being undertaken by China's biggest property developer, Wanda

Chinese billionaire Huang Xiangmo with Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister, Julie Bishop

Two weeks ago it was revealed Wanda had sold the fire-ravaged site (pictured) to the son of Chinese businessman and political donor Huang Xiangmo

The billionaire's 23-year-old son Huang Jiquan, who lives at Mosman on Sydney's lower north shore, replaced his father on the share register as a director of AWH.

AWH was formed late last year as Wanda, which has been under pressure from the Chinese Government to reduce its foreign debts, was searching for a buyer for its Australian assets.

Labor senator Sam Dastyari, who received political donations from Huang Xiangmo and made comments supporting China's stance in the South China Sea against his party's position, recently resigned from Federal Parliament.

Wanda sold One Circular Quay and the Jewel project on Queensland's Gold Coast  which were once valued at $1billion each - for a total of $1.119billion made up of $312million in cash and $807.1million in debt repayment.

The site of the proposed One Circular Quay apartment development at 1 Alfred StreetThe White House denounced abuse Monday in words that the building's top spokeswoman said were dictated by Donald Trump - although not delivered by the president.

Sarah Sanders said in a statement that the Trump administration takes 'domestic violence very seriously' and the president believes 'all allegations need to be investigated thoroughly.'

'Above all the president supports victims of domestic violence and believes everyone should be treated fairly and with due process,' she said at a news conference, where allegations of abuse from former staff secretary Rob Porter's two ex-wives continued to hound the president.

President Trump has been excoriated for his response to the allegations that appeared on DailyMail.com in back-to-back articles on Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning of last week.

The White House denounced abuse Monday in words that the building's top spokeswoman said were dictated by Donald Trump - although not spoken by the president

It took the president more than 48 hours to react after Porter's first wife, Colbie Holderness, shared her story alongside pictures she says were taken on a vacation after her then-husband gave her a black eye.

Trump said then that Porter was a hard worker who he hoped would have a successful career, despite what had happened.

He made no mention of the women who spoke out against the White House aide who was allowed to resign on his own terms on Wednesday afternoon.

The president had a second chance to address domestic violence charges on Saturday. But instead of condemning abuse, Trump complained about people whose lives had been destroyed by 'mere allegations.' They, too, deserve due process, he said.

Trump's response to the scandal had Porter's second ex-wife up, Jennifer Willoughby, up in arms on Monday.

Sarah Sanders said in a statement that the Trump administration takes 'domestic violence very seriously' and the president believes 'all allegations need to be investigated thoroughly'

Writing in Time magazine, Willoughby said Trump had signaled 'the work Rob was doing in the White House was of higher value than our mental, emotional or physical wellbeing. That his professional contributions are worth more than the truth. That abuse is something to be questioned and doubted.'

'If the most powerful people in the nation do not believe my story of abuse in the face of overwhelming evidence, then what hope do others have of being heard?' she asked.

Questioned about the president's 'tone deaf' tweet on Monday at the White House's daily press briefing, Sanders denied that it was.

'I don't think the president being, supporting due process, for any allegation is not tone deaf,' she said. 'I think it is allowing things to be investigated and a mere allegation not being the determining factor.'

The Trump spokeswoman said, 'It's not taking a side one way or the other on any specific issue, he's talking about mere allegations shouldn't be the determining factor for any individual. That there should be due process.'

Former White House staff secretary Rob Porter (left) was drummed out of the White House last week following allegations of domestic violence by his two ex-wives

Colbie Holderness, Porter's first wife, (left) claims he repeatedly punched and choked her. His second wife Jennifer Willoughby has also claimed that Porter was abusive in their marriage

White House deputy press secretary Hogan Gidley claimed Monday morning that Trump has publicly condemned domestic violence  but even a 'Fox & Friends' host was quick to correct him

President Trump told reporters Friday in his only public statement on the episode that he was 'surprised' and made 'sad' by the allegations, 'but we certainly wish him well. It's obviously a tough time for him. ... we hope he has a wonderful career.'

Privately, the president is said to have blamed Porter for creating a crisis for the administration. He told one confidant during a phone call Thursday that Porter was 'bad garbage,' according to The New York Times.

Axios reports that Trump called Porter 'sick' behind closed doors after DailyMail.com published the ex-wives' accounts of suffering long-term physical abuse, and he believes the women, despite not mentioning either of them on Friday as reporters listened and camera shutters clicked.

Holderness told DailyMail.com that Porter choked and punched her during their marriage, while Willoughby said he dragged her wet and naked out of the shower and was verbally abusive.

The Porter saga has developed into a full-scale crisis for the Trump administration as questions swirled about who in the White House knew about his past  and when.

Sanders said Monday that the White House 'learned of the extent of the situation involving Rob Porter last Tuesday evening, and within 24 hours, his resignation had been accepted and announced.'

Her account directly conflicts with Chief of Staff John Kelly's claim to reporters on Friday that Porter was out within 40 minutes. She would not square the two when asked about the differing claims on Monday.

'I can tell you that a conversation took place within 40 minutes. And beyond that, I really dont have anything else to add,' Sanders stated.

Trump raised eyebrows on Friday by wishing Porter well  and not mentioning his victims

Earlier on Monday on 'Fox & Friends,' a program the president watches religiously, White House deputy press secretary Hogan Gidley was asked why Trump won't condemn Porter publicly.

'I don't know if he is going to say that publicly or not, and I've not spoken with the president about this,' Gidley responded, claiming moments later that 'the president has been very clear that all forms of abuse, all forms of battery against women are deplorable and disgusting.'

'He hasn't said that!' responded co-host Brian Kilmeade.

The Trump spokesman said, 'I have talked to the president about issues surrounding this type of behavior, and he finds it disgusting.'

Cornered on the president's widely panned performance on Friday, Gidley again insisted that 'the president has been out against domestic violence for a long time.'

'He didn't  in the Oval Offfice, the thing you are probably talking about  he was asked specifically about Rob Porter. The president deplores  thinks that domestic violence is grotesque.'

Multiple senior White House officials defended Porter last week, even after DailyMail.com published gruesome photos of a black eye Porter's first wife said was a result of him punching her.

And the White House's press team, according to Axios, said some senior officials urged Porter not to resign, but instead 'to stay and fight.'

John Kelly, who faced criticism for initially defending Porter, was told months ago that he (right) had a history of domestic violence that was keeping him from getting a security clearance

On Friday Trump cautioned reporters that Porter 'says he's innocent.'

A day later he tweeted that '[p]eoples lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation. Some are true and some are false. Some are old and some are new. There is no recovery for someone falsely accused - life and career are gone. Is there no such thing any longer as Due Process?'

Aides told some reporters on Sunday that Trump meant that tweet as a commentary on the saga of longtime friend Steve Wynn, who has resigned from the company he built following accusations of sexual harassment.Oxfam could lose tens of millions of pounds in EU funding if bosses are found to have broken ethics rules.

The European Commission said it had begun an urgent investigation into whether any of its funds were linked to allegations that charity workers in Haiti threw sex parties and used prostitutes.

Officials said that they would take a 'zero tolerance' approach and dozens of programmes could be overhauled if they are found to be tainted by the controversy.

The probe from one of Oxfam's biggest financial contributors could prove hugely damaging, with the bloc sending the charity 47.5million last year.

Oxfam could lose tens of millions of pounds in EU funding if bosses are found to have broken ethics rules

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt has warned that the allegations will put the charity's 32million-a-year UK aid funding at risk. The minister also promised to use an international summit this week to demand that both donors and charities boost efforts to challenge sexual harassment.

Another of Oxfam's leading donors yesterday threatened a funding revolt if questions about the scandal are not answered.

Innocent Smoothies, one of Oxfam's leading corporate backers, yesterday said it would stop donating unless the charity guarantees that the same mistakes will not be repeated.

Richard Reed, the millionaire co-founder of the juice firm, described the scandal as Oxfam's 'darkest hour' and said the company's annual donation of around 100,000 could be at stake.

Innocent Smoothies, one of Oxfam's leading corporate backers, said it would stop donating unless the charity guarantees that the same mistakes will not be repeated

'As a corporate sponsor, we would want to see a very, very clear comprehensive plan for how this could not ever happen again,' he said. 'If these actions turn out to be true, then of course we would revisit it [the funding]. Because you're giving money to do good. You're not giving money to do these other things.'

Speaking to the Emma Barnett Show on BBC Radio 5, Mr Reed said he could think of 'no organisation that will be more committed to making sure that they learn from this'.

But he added: 'If these allegations prove to be true, the actions are dreadful. I mean everyone will be completely united in that. It's the exact opposite of what Oxfam stands for as an organisation. We would always give them a fair hearing because everyone's entitled to that in a situation like this.'

The EU investigation yesterday centred on its award of 1.5million to Oxfam projects in Haiti during 2011, when the alleged abuses took place. Oxfam's British arm received 29.3million from the European Commission in the 2016/2017 financial year, from a total budget of 408.6million.

EU records show that the UK branch received cash for 22 different programmes in 2016, including 8.9million to improve food security in two states in northern Nigeria.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt (pictured) has warned that the allegations will put the charity's 32million-a-year UK aid funding at risk

Other projects included humanitarian relief in Sudan and the irrigation systems used in farming in the Gaza Strip.

A spokesman said yesterday: 'The European Commission expects its partners to abide by strict ethics and professional codes of conduct and principles.

'We take a zero tolerance approach to any allegations of misconduct by organisations that receive our funding.

'In this specific case, we expect Oxfam to fully clarify delegations with maximum transparency as a matter of urgency.'

The spokesman said they were collecting information about the charity's operations in Haiti and whether Oxfam staff were paid using any EU funds.

The spokesman added: 'We are ready to review and cease funding to any partner who is not living up to the high ethical standards.'The White House faced tough questions Monday in the wake of the Rob Porter scandal about top aides without permanent security clearances who have access to the nation's most sensitive classified documents.

But for the Trump administration, it's reporters who have to answer for ignoring the nation's needs by recklessly publishing classified material.

'We're doing and taking every step we can to protect classified information,' White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters on Monday, adding that 'if you guys have real concerns about leaking out classified information, look around this room.'

'You guys are the ones that publish classified portion and put national security at risk. That doesn't come from this White House.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders on Monday blamed reporters for jeopardizing national security by publishing leaked classified documents

Former White House staff secretary Rob Porter operated for more than a year without a permanent security clearance, even though the past domestic violence that kept him from passing a background check made him a blackmail risk while he had access to top secret materials

'We take every precaution possible to protect classified information and certainly to protect national security,' an indignant Sanders said, cracking her normally cool approach to fending off questions.

'The president's number one priority is protecting the citizens of this country. It's why we spend every day doing everything we can to do that. And I think if anyone is publishing or putting out publicly classified information, it's members of the press, not the White House.

The most famous public leak of classified documents came in 1971 when The New York Times published the Pentagon Papers, a detailed Defense Department history of the United States' military involvement in Vietnam.

In 2011 a handful of newspapers published 779 top-secret dossiers about terrorists and suspected terrorists detained at the U.S. military prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Top secret materials pass through the White House every day; Porter had access to everything that made its way to the president's desk

Colbie Holderness, Porter's first wife, (left) claims he repeatedly punched and choked her. His second wife Jennifer Willoughby has also claimed that Porter was abusive in their marriage, once dragging her, naked, out of the shower. The two women's claims of domestic violence kept Porter from receiving his permanent security clearance

Other notable breaches have come from the anti-privacy WikiLeaks organization, including the 2010 publication of more than a quarter-million secret cables between the State Department and its diplomats around the world.

WikiLeaks has also exposed a collection of government logs of U.S. military activities in Afghanistan, and nearly 400,000 previously secret U.S. Army field reports from the Iraq War.

Porter, formerly President Trump's staff secretary, was in charge until last Wednesday of managing the flow of paper that gets to the Oval Office, including documents classified at the government's highest levels.

But he was operating for more than a year without a permanent security clearance granted by the FBI and intelligence agencies  instead working on the basis of a temporary clearance bestowed on him by the White House itself.

White House Counsel Don McGahn was informed less than a week into Trump's presidency that allegations of abuse from his two ex-wives would present a problem for his security clearance review.

Among the classified leaks published publicly in recent years was a collection of government logs of U.S. military activities in Afghanistan

In 2010 WikiLeaks published more than a quarter-million secret cables between the State Department and its diplomats around the world

The FBI had interviewed the women, Colbie Holderness and Jennifer Willoughby, as part of Porter's background check.

McGahn appears to have taken no steps to investigate Porter. Chief of Staff John Kelly was told in the fall, but the 40-year-old Trump aide kept his job.

Sanders conceded on Monday that there may be some flaws in the security clearance vetting process, but laid the blame at the feet of the government agencies that do the leg-work.

'I can tell you that we do rely on the same process that has been used for decades,' she said.

'And if changes are thought to be made, that would be made by the law enforcement and intel[ligence] communities that run that process, not the White House.'

'But that's something that could be looked at certainly in light of this,' she added.An Oklahoma woman has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for killing her adult daughter by forcing a crucifix and medallion down her throat because she thought she was possessed by the devil.

Juanita Gomez, 51, was sentenced on Monday for the gruesome 2016 death of her 33-year-old daughter Geneva Gomez.

The judge followed the sentence recommended by jurors who convicted her in January of first-degree murder.

Attorneys for Gomez say they plan to appeal the sentence.

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Juanita Gomez, 51, was sentenced to life in prison without parole on Monday for killing her daughter Geneva Gomez in Oklahoma in 2016. She is pictured above in January

Police were called to Gomez's home in Oklahoma City in August 2016 after the victim's boyfriend came across her bruised and bloodied body lying on the floor.

Geneva was found with her arms spread out as if she had been crucified and a large crucifix had been placed on her chest.

The boyfriend, Francisco Merlos, testified during the trial that when he asked Gomez why she did not seek medical help for Geneva, the woman 'kept mumbling about "devil and money",' and told him that her daughter was 'possessed'.

When Merlos tried to leave, he said Gomez put him in a headlock but he was able to free himself from her grasp and call police.

Court documents indicate that Gomez told police her daughter had been speaking in tongues in a demonic voice the night before her death, her eyes had rolled back in her head and that she had threatened to kill her mother.

Gomez also said the bruises on her arms and hands were from her daughter resisting her attempts to exorcise Satan from her body.

Juanita Gomez smiled as she was led into court back in January prior to being found guilty of murdering her 33-year-old daughter Geneva (right) in August 2016

Police were called to Gomez's home in Oklahoma City (above) in August 2016 after the victim's boyfriend came across her bruised and bloodied body lying on the floor

The mother told police she then forced a crucifix down her daughter's throat until blood came out of her mouth and watched her die.

Assistant District Attorney Suzanne Lavenue likened the crime scene inside the home to a 'horror film'.

During the trial, jurors were shown a crime scene photo of the victim lying on the floor with the crucifix on her chest.

She had pleaded not guilty to the murder charge against her.

Her lawyers had signaled their intent to present an insanity defense at trial but later scrapped that plan.

A court-appointed forensic psychologist found Gomez competent to stand trial and said she was feigning memory problems and mental illness to appear incompetent.

Geneva (pictured above) was found with her arms spread out as if she had been crucified and a large crucifix had been placed on her chestAid workers suspected of having sex with underage prostitutes in Haiti must be named so they can be prosecuted, Oxfam was told last night.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt ordered the charity to send all the evidence of alleged criminal behaviour by its staff to a host of law enforcement agencies.

Files on each suspect are being sent to Haiti and the countries where the aid workers come from. The process paves the way for prosecutions to be considered in the Caribbean state or in the home countries of suspects.

Miss Mordaunt described the behaviour of the aid workers as 'appalling' and said Oxfam must demonstrate 'the moral leadership necessary to rebuild the trust of the British people'.

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International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt (pictured) ordered Oxfam to send all the evidence of alleged criminal behaviour by its staff to a host of law enforcement agencies

Senior figures at the charity, including chairman Caroline Thomson and chief executive Mark Goldring, yesterday made a 'full and unqualified apology' to Britain and Haiti at a private meeting with Miss Mordaunt.

'They spoke of the deep sense of disgrace and shame that they and their organisation feel about what has happened, and set out the actions they will now take to put things right and prevent such horrific abuses happening in future,' she said. 'In the 21st century, it is utterly despicable that sexual exploitation and abuse continues to exist in the aid sector.

'Oxfam assured me they are cooperating fully with the authorities in Haiti and will do so in any other country where abuse has been exposed.'

Separately, Bocchit Edmond, Haiti's ambassador to the UK, said his country is 'shocked and appalled' at the charity for allowing senior staff to leave the country without being investigated by local police.

He warned that a paedophile ring might have been operating in the aftermath of the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake and threatened to take legal action against Oxfam.

Oxfam's CEO Mark Goldring (left) and Chair Caroline Thomson (right) leave the Department of International Trade and Development in London on Monday

In a furious broadside at the charity, Mr Edmond said: 'That crime should never have been committed. Your mission was not to exploit, to sexually exploit those girls.

'Your mission was not to go to solicit prostitutes, your mission was to go and help those people in need, not to use your power and advantage to exploit them.'

He called on the charity and the British Government to identify those suspected of wrongdoing so they can be prosecuted 'in the international system'.

Oxfam has been accused of covering up claims that its aid workers used prostitutes in Haiti in 2011.

Prostitution is illegal in Haiti, as is having sex with someone under the age of 18.

Four members of staff were dismissed and three, including the charity's country director Roland van Hauwermeiren, resigned before the end of a 2011 investigation.

Penny Lawrence, the charity's deputy chief executive, was forced to quit her 99,000-a-year job

Oxfam did not inform the Department for International Development at the time that this case involved sexual misconduct.

Mr Edmond added: 'For the executives to know these crimes were committed and to allow those people to leave without informing the authorities is wrong. We might be dealing with a paedophile ring. It was a crime. Prostitution is illegal and we believe they may have been underage kids.'

On Sunday, Mr Goldring claimed the charity did not report the suspects  none of whom are British  to Haitian police because it feared this would endanger the women involved. Mr Edmond said such a response was 'wrong and really insulting'.

'Oxfam should recognise they failed and showed a lack of leadership,' he said. 'How do they know the women would have been endangered?'

The charity's deputy chief executive was forced to quit her 99,000-a-year job yesterday after taking 'full responsibility' for the sordid behaviour of her staff. Penny Lawrence said she was 'ashamed' the alleged use of underage prostitutes took place 'on her watch' admitted that the charity 'failed to adequately act upon' concerns by whistleblowers.

The former teacher shares a 1.4million home with her family in Summertown, a suburb of Oxford. Her husband, Graham Bray, 61, is chief operating officer at charity Young Lives.

Miss Lawrence joined the charity in 2006 as programme director before being appointed deputy chief executive in 2016.

It was during her tenure as programme director that Oxfam staff allegedly committed sex offences in Chad in 2006 and later in Haiti.

Mr van Hauwermeiren was in charge of the Chad mission. Despite allegations of illegal behaviour by his team, he was later appointed to the Haiti job by Miss Lawrence. 'It is now clear these allegations  involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad  were raised before he moved to Haiti,' she said.

The charity's country director in Haiti Roland van Hauwermeiren (pictured) resigned before the end of a 2011 investigation

'As program director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility.

'I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress this has caused to Oxfam's supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us.'

The announcement is likely to increase pressure on Mr Goldring, who is reported to have said he will resign if the board of trustees ask for his head. The scandal has prompted the Department for International Development to create a new unit to urgently review safeguarding across all parts of the aid sector.

Miss Mordaunt has sent a letter all UK charities working overseas  including Oxfam  to demand they do more 'to fully protect vulnerable people'.

Andrew MacLeod, the former chief of operations of the UN's Emergency Coordination Centre claimed 'predatory paedophiles' were now targeting charities in order to 'access children' in the developing world. Mr MacLeod, who now works for the charity Hear Their Cries, said: 'The impact of sex tourism laws make it unlawful for anybody to have sex with children under the age of 16 anywhere in the world or aid, abet or support that. What we have seen is that predatory paedophiles are now going to the developing world to get access to children.'The Cultural Italian American Organization of Auburn will host its annual St. Joseph's Day Feast Celebration at 5 p.m. Sunday, March 18, at the Springside Inn, 6141 W. Lake Road, Fleming.

There will be a traditional St. Joseph's table dinner with Italian antipasto, romaine/oranges salad, cannoli, spiral pasta with sardines or tomato sauce, garlic baked ham and more.

Zeppoles and bread shaped like the shepherd's hook will be prepared by members of CIAO for all attendees. A small religious ceremony related to the custom of the Tavola di San Giuseppe will precede the dinner, and drawings will be held.

Tickets are $30, and attendees are asked to bring a nonperishable food item for the St. Alphonsus Food Pantry. Attendees are also asked to wear a touch of red in honor of the royal color of St. Joseph.

Tickets are available at Tesoro's Apparel, The Flower Shop and Bistro Gusto Italiano, all in Auburn, or by calling CIAO board members Joseph Palmiotto at (315) 406-2417, Joe DeCaro at (315) 889-5275, Paul Saltarello at (315) 252-7778 or Felix Mucedola at (315) 406-4859. No tickets will be sold at the door.

For more information, visit cayugacountyciao.org.

Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0He doesn't deny sexual contact with the woman, but he claims it was consensual

It's alleged she was sleeping fully dressed and 'felt something between her legs'

Perth woman has cried in court describing how she was raped while asleep

A Perth woman has wept in court while describing how a man she met and kissed on a dance floor later raped her while she slept in a bed next to him.

Courtney Donald Lakay is on trial in the Western Australia District Court, charged with sexual penetration without consent over the May 2015 incident.

It is alleged Lakay, then aged 30, raped the 24-year-old woman as she slept beside him in the spare room of her friend's Doubleview unit.

A Perth woman has wept in court while describing how a man raped her while she was asleep

The woman testified in a pre-recorded video that she went out with a female friend to Northbridge, then they met up with her friend's boyfriend at a nightclub in Burswood where he was out with a group of male friends.

She admitted being 'tipsy' that night and dancing with Lakay, even sharing a few brief kisses with him.

At the end of the night, the four of them returned to her friend's home. The woman was wearing leggings, a singlet and jumper when she went to bed and told Lakay he could sleep next to her.

She said Lakay gave her a 'peck' on the lips but she pulled away and fell asleep in the foetal position, waking up later to find Lakay raping her.

'I felt something between my legs,' she said. The woman said she remained clothed but her leggings had been pulled down.

She said she remained still and closed her eyes because she 'didn't know how to react'. Afterwards, the woman left the room and explained to her friend what had happened.

'I was very upset and I was shaking,' she testified.

The woman said she drove everyone to her friend's boyfriend's house where Lakay left without saying a word, then dropped off her friend back at the unit and drove herself home.

Courtney Lakay is being tried at the WA District Court for sexual penetration without consent

Prosecutor Clare Cullen said five days later the woman's friend contacted Lakay on Facebook and suggested he apologise.

In his text message to the woman, Lakay said he 'felt pretty bad all week' and was 'really sorry', adding his actions were 'out of character'.

Defence counsel Karen Shepherd asked the jury to suspend judgment until they heard all the evidence.

She said Lakay admitted to having sex with the woman and the central issue came down to consent.

The trial continues.La Nouvelle-Orleans was founded in the spring of 1718 and named after the Regent of France at the time, who was also the Duke of Orleans - the French city from which New Orleans takes its name.

The French colony was then ceded to the Spanish empire in 1763 and remained Spanish until the beginning of the 19th century.

Nearly all of the architecture in the famous French Quarter was built in this period.

New Orleans fell back under the control of France with Napoleon Bonaparte now in command of a French republic.

But Napoleon sold Louisiana in 1803 to the United States for $15M, roughly equivalent to $245M in today's money.

The sale included much more than what we know today as Louisiana.

It also included Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska - as well as parts of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico, Texas, Montanta, Wyoming and Colorado.

La Nouvelle-Orleans was founded in the spring of 1718 and named after the Regent of France at the time, who was also the Duke of Orleans - the French city from which New Orleans takes its name. Pictured: A carnival in the city in 1885

The staggering deal doubled the size of the United States, with New Orleans at the heart of the new province.

In 1812, British forces fought the young nation of the USA in the Battle of New Orleans, where General Andrew Jackson led a ragtag army to a great victory.

During the American Civil War, New Orleans was captured early on by the Union Army, meaning it was spared the destruction suffered by many cities in the South.

After the abolition of slavery in the United States, New Orleans was host to a struggle for civil rights as the large black population fought against institutionalized racism.

Ruby Bridges was the first African-American child to attend a desegregated school in New Orleans in 1960.

As the years passed, the French language slowly died in the city, but as late as the 1930s there were old women who still spoke only French and knew no English.

In the 21st century, New Orleans was hit by Hurricane Katrina, a catastrophic event that led to floodwalls and levees failing and leaving 80 per cent of the city flooded.

An estimated 1,500 people died in Louisiana, most of them in New Orleans.Here is a timeline of some of the key events in the 13-month political impasse.

January 2017:

Stormont's Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness resigns in protest over DUP First Minister Arlene Foster's handling of a botched green energy scheme that cost 500 million.

The executive falls a week later and a snap election is called.

Mr McGuinness says he will not stand for re-election. Michelle O'Neill is the new leader of Sinn Fein at Stormont.

February

More traditional disputes start to dominate the election campaign - such as Irish language, legacy and the region's ban on same-sex marriage.

March

Sinn Fein makes major gains in the snap election, cutting a 10-seat gap from the DUP to one. The long-standing unionist majority within the Assembly goes.

Mr McGuinness dies.

A deadline to form a new executive within three weeks of the election falls as the parties fail to agree a deal.

April

Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire sets a new deadline - for mid-April. The deadline is Good Friday.

The faltering talks do not even reach Good Friday. The process is adjourned for the Easter holidays with no deal.

May

Mr Brokenshire sets a third deadline for mid-May, but it goes up in smoke when Theresa May calls a snap election. Talks are paused for the campaign, and a new deadline June 29 set.

June

The DUP emerges as kingmaker for Mrs May's minority government - sparking claims No10 is no longer impartial.

Talks flounder, the June 29 deadline is not met and new one of July 3 set.

July

July 3 comes and goes.

October

Yet another deadline is pencilled in by Mr Brokenshire - October 29. Talks resume but a deal does not materialise.

November

Mr Brokenshire sets Stormont's 2017/18 budget at Westminster.

January 2018

Mr Brokenshire leaves the government due to ill health. His successor Karen Bradley earmarks February 7 as a 'milestone' rather than a deadline.

February

Theresa May and Irish PM Leo Varadkar travel to Stormont fuelling hopes that a deal is about to be done. But the DUP collapse the talks.Ancient rock art discovered in Saudi Arabia shows more than 6,600 depictions of wildlife - proving the area was home to a vast range of creatures in prehistoric times.

The engravings, some of which date back to 8,000BC, include images of rare antelope, aurochs, wild camels and African asses, previously not known to live in this area.

Although the area is now a rocky desert, experts believe it would have been a haven for plant and animal life up until 6,000 years ago.

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The engravings (pictured), some of which date back to 8000BC, include images of rare antelope, aurochs, wild camels and African asses, previously not known to live in this area

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History in Jena, Germany, studied rock art at UNESCO World Heritage Sites Jubbah and Shuwaymis.

They looked at more than 6,618 rock engraving panels that provide insight into ancient life in the Arabian peninsula - which we currently know very little about.

The animals they found had never been listed on local archaeological records, writes New Scientist.

One of the key findings were images of an antelope called lesser kudu, which has distinctive spiral horns, and before now was not believed to have left Africa.

Aurochs, the ancestors of modern domestic cattle, were also depicted in the drawings as well as wild camels and African wild asses.

Previously, none of these animals were believed to have lived in this part of Arabia.

Aurochs (pictured), the ancestors of modern domestic cattle, were also depicted in the drawings as well as wild camels and African wild asses

They looked at more than 6,618 rock engraving panels that provided insight into ancient life in the Arabian peninsula - which we currently know very little about. Pictured are wild camels

Experts believe the area would have been home to an abundance of vegetation that flourished under monsoon rains.

Shuwaymis is a hilly region of northwestern Saudi Arabia, where in the past seasonal rains would have formed rivers that supported the growth of vegetation.

Jubbah is an a more open area about 125 miles (200 km) north, which would have once featured numerous lakes.

Experts believe the area would have been home to an abundance of vegetation that flourished under monsoon rains. African wild ass (left) and Kudu (right) would have both inhabited the area

Shuwaymis is a hilly region of northwestern Saudi Arabia, where in the past seasonal rains would have formed rivers that supported the growth of vegetation. Jubbah is an a more open area about 125 miles (200 km) north, which would have once featured numerous lakes

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF ROCK ART IN SAUDI ARABIA? Human presence in the Arabian Peninsula dates back one million years. Out of 4,000 registered archaeological sites in Saudi Arabia, 1,500 include rock art. The earliest examples date to around 12,000 years ago. These depictions show masked men and women dancing, and experts believe they could be mythological figures, although the meaning remains unclear. Between ten and eight thousand years ago people started herding animals and carrying out primitive agriculture. During this period, drawings increasingly show cattle and dogs. Experts believe these animals had been domesticated and were part of their everyday life. Some include images of rare antelope, aurochs, wild camels and African asses, previously not known to live in this area. Aurochs, the ancestors of modern domestic cattle, were also depicted in the drawings as well as wild camels and African wild asses. Archaeologists also uncovered drawings from this period depicting a hunter drawing his bow surrounded by a pack of 13 dogs, two of which appear to be tethered. The find is thought to be the oldest ever depiction of a dog, as well as such restraints being used to control them. Previously, the earliest evidence came from a wall painting in Egypt which is believed to date back around 5,500 years. All of the carvings show medium-sized creatures with pricked up ears, short snouts, and curled tails, suggesting they are domesticated rather than wild animals. Experts say they closely resemble the modern species of Canaan dog, found running wild in the deserts of the Middle East today. From five thousand years ago, circular stone structures and other archaeological remains suggest sedentary communities were starting to form. They had temples and sculpted images of deities on stones or rock faces. There are lots of similar depictions of goddesses with wide hips, raised hands and open fingers. Source: Bradshaw foundation Advertisement

'Our knowledge of the prehistoric distribution of animal species is so far largely dependent on the location of excavated archaeological and palaeontological sites', researchers wrote in the paper published in the Journal of Biogeography.

'In the absence of excavated faunal remains, many species that were present in the Levant and North Africa have been assumed to have been absent on the Arabian Peninsula.

'Here, we explore representations of four species that were identifiable in the rock art, but had not previously been reported in north-western Arabia.'

In November, archaeologists uncovered drawings from the same site depicting a hunter drawing his bow surrounded by a pack of 13 dogs, two of which appear to be tethered.

The find is thought to be the oldest ever depiction of a dog, as well as such restraints being used to control them.

Previously, the earliest evidence came from a wall painting in Egypt which is believed to date back around 5,500 years.

Researchers found nearly 7, 000 images of animals and humans of which 349, found at two sites, depict dogs - 156 at Shuwaymis and 193 at Jubbah.

In November, archaeologists uncovered drawings from the same site depicting a hunter drawing his bow surrounded by a pack of 13 dogs, two of which appear to be tethered

The find is thought to be the oldest ever depiction of a dog, as well as such restraints being used to control them. Until now, the earliest evidence came from a wall painting in Egypt which is believed to date back around 5,500 years

All of the carvings show medium-sized creatures with pricked up ears, short snouts, and curled tails, suggesting they are domesticated rather than wild animals

All of the carvings show medium-sized creatures with pricked up ears, short snouts, and curled tails, suggesting they are domesticated rather than wild animals.

Experts say they closely resemble the modern species of Canaan dog, found running wild in the deserts of the Middle East today.

The hunters may have used the leashes to keep valuable scent dogs close or to train new dogs, the researchers say, as well as freeing a hunters hands for his bow.

Experts say they closely resemble the modern species of Canaan dog, found running wild in the deserts of the Middle East today

Alternatively, the images may hold a purely symbolic meaning, representing the bond between the animals and their masters.

Speaking to Science, Melinda Zeder, an archaeozoologist at the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC, who was not involved in the study, said: 'It's truly astounding stuff.'

'It's the only real demonstration we have of humans using early dogs to hunt.'

Hunter-gatherers entered, or perhaps returned to, the region around 10,000 years ago.In the world of music, practice makes perfect, And the same is true of zebra finches who sing while they sleep, new research has found.

Experts have known for almost 20 years that brain patterns that control singing in the birds are present while they dream.

A previous study found that sleeping zebra finches listen to the songs of other birds while they are awake and mimic their tunes silently in their brains as they slumber.

Now, for the first time, researchers have discovered that the creatures actually move their vocal muscles in response to this process.

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Experts have known for almost 20 years that brain patterns that control singing in Zebra Finches are present while they dream. Now, for the first time, researchers have discovered that the creatures actually move their vocal muscles in response to this process (stock image)

The finding was made by a team of physicists from the University of Buenos Aires, who attached electrodes to the vocal muscles of ten zebra finches, according to reports in New Scientist.

They found that the muscles exhibited spontaneous twitching while the bird's slept, which matched the movements of their singing during the day.

The patterns of the muscle movements varied, suggesting the birds were practising different versions of the same song.

By playing songs to the finches while they were asleep, experts found that they could cause this nocturnal process.

They used both recordings of birdsong and digitally created versions of the tunes, although the latter were less successful.

Writing in a paper, published on the pre-print archive bioRxiv, its authors said: 'In this work, we found that nocturnal playbacks of the bird's own song, or synthetic versions of that song, evoke vS activity patterns strikingly similar to those recorded during song execution.'

'During sleep spontaneous activity patterns resembling the execution pattern can be detected in vS, but not in the respiratory gesture, explaining the lack of phonation (sound)'

The only thing stopping the muscle movements producing an audible song was a lack of air, the research team says.

The finding was made by a team of physicists from the University of Buenos Aires, who attached electrodes to the vocal muscles of ten zebra finches. They found that the muscles exhibited spontaneous twitching which matched the movements of their singing (stock image)

'If you blew air against the syrinx [voice organ] while the bird was sleeping, you would probably hear some of these notes,' Richard Hahnloser at the University of Zurich, Switzerland, who was not involved in the study, told New Scientist.

In October 2000, scientists published their discovery of sleep mimicry in the songbirds.

They used tiny recording devices to analyse the bird's brain activity and found that, if the bird's sleep is unbroken, it goes on to practise the songs, trying out variations such as changing notes or tempo.

Speaking at the time Professor Daniel Margoliash, who led the research at the University of Chicago, said: 'From our data we suspect the songbird dreams of singing.

CAN YOU LEARN WHILE YOU NAP? It is the perfect learning shortcut, to play a language tape or revision recording at night while you are asleep. But those desperately hoping the information will go in as they snooze may be disappointed. Scientists have previously found that the brain does take in what it hears during REM sleep  the time spent mostly dreaming, usually in the morning before we wake up. Leaving a tape running overnight is probably counter-productive as information gained in deep sleep can be completely lost. French researchers found that sound played during certain parts of deep sleep may make information harder to learn when you wake up than if you had never heard it before. That is thought to be because the brain is busy erasing memories at this time, and the new knowledge is dumped along with them. In a study published by experts from PSL Research University in Paris in August 2017, researchers tested sleep learning by playing 20 participants white noise, which contained patterns of sound. The sounds heard during the REM (rapid eye movement) stage of sleep were remembered by these people when they woke up. They found it easier to identify the white noise which had repeated sounds in it because they had heard it while asleep. But the noise played while people were in deep sleep, which makes up almost a third of our slumbers, was forgotten. Advertisement

'The zebra finch appears to store the neuronal firing pattern of song production during the day and reads it out at night, rehearsing the song, and perhaps, improvising variations.

'The match is remarkably good.'

Professor Maroliash, whose research was detailed in the journal Science, said it suggested sleep plays a central role in the learning process.

'If we can describe the rules by which sleep acts on song learning, these lessons may apply to learning in other animals, including humans,' he added.

The scientists reached their conclusions by measuring the activity of individual brain cells in four zebra finches.

In the first step, they taped the sound of a bird singing and recorded the nerve- cell activity.

Then they played back the song to the same bird while it was asleep. Again they measured its brain activity and found that the pattern was identical, even though the bird produces no sound.

They even discovered the sleeping bird was able to replay the pattern slightly faster and predict the next set of notes.In one of the worlds northernmost inhabited areas, permafrost prevents the dead from decomposing.

To prevent disease from spreading, authorities have had to ban people from dying in the town.

But this strange settlement, known as Longyearbyen, could prove useful to scientists.

Its graveyard contains the remains of a number of victims of the deadly Spanish Flu that killed as many as 100 million people worldwide in 1918.

Samples of the Spanish Flu virus have been extracted from some of the bodies so researchers can study the disease in an attempt to prevent a similar outbreak.

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It may seem like an odd law for a town plagued by polar bear attacks, but officials have placed a ban on dying on an island in the Arctic circle. In one of the worlds northernmost inhabited areas, the ground is covered in permafrost which prevents bodies from decomposing

Longyearbyen is a coal-mining town in the remote Svalbard chain of islands with a population of around 2,000 residents.

Situated north of mainland Europe, Svalbard is about halfway between continental Norway and the North Pole, 620 miles (1,000 km) to the north.

Average temperatures in February are -17C (1.4F), although they have been known to plummet to as low as -46.3C (-51.3F) around this time of year.

The Norwegian archipelago brought in the strange statute in 1950, when it was discovered that bodies buried beneath the freezing dirt were not rotting, according to a new report by Half as Interesting.

This presents a serious risk to residents, as 11 people died and were buried in the town during the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918.

The true global mortality rate from the pandemic is not known, but an estimated 10 per cent to 20 per cent of those who were infected died.

This would lead to a death toll of between 50 to 100 million people.

Researchers have since conducted a study on the permafrost phenomenon that preserves the corpses in the graveyard.

Situated north of mainland Europe, Svalbard is about halfway between continental Norway and the North Pole, 620 miles (1,000 km) to the north. This image shows tourists riding sleds outside the town

Concerned over the spread of disease, authorities brought in a law banning residents from shuffling off this mortal coil while on the archipelago. A road sign sporting a polar bear notifies motorists of their presence in the region

Average temperatures in February are -17C (1.4F), although they have been known to plummet to as low as -46.3C (-51.3F) around this time of year. This image shows colourful huts outside the town

In August 1998, 80 years after the Spanish flu pandemic swept the world, Dr. Kirsty Duncan of the University of Windsor lead a team of scientists to the region.

They examined tissue from a person who died in the town, and found that his body had preserved the Influenza virus since his death from Spanish Flu.

Explaining the law in 2017, Jan Christian Meyer, from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, in Trondheim, said: 'In Svalbard, Norway, there is a ban on dying.

The reason for this is that the permanently frozen ground will not only tend to keep your buried remains from decomposing and push them to the surface.

It may also perfectly preserve the disease that killed you, for locals to pick up later.

If you seem to be about to expire, every effort will be made to send you to the mainland.

The Norwegian archipelago brought in the strange statute in 1950, when it was discovered that bodies buried beneath the freezing dirt were not rotting. This image shows the town centre

The permafrost effect presents a serious risk to residents, as 11 people died and were buried in the town during the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918. This image shows the town's harbour

Researchers have since conducted a study on the permafrost phenomenon that preserves the corpses in the graveyard. They found that a body they examine had preserved the Influenza virus since his death from Spanish Flu. This image shows mountains outside the town

If you should die there anyway, you most certainly will not be buried there, because funerals don't work the way they are supposed to.

'You can apply to have your cremated remains put into the ground, but it requires state approval.'

Death is an ever-present risk on the islands.

In February 2017, four adults and two children were inside a house when an avalanche hit, knocking the building off its foundations.

Thankfully they escaped, but two years previously two people were killed in an avalanche in the same area.

Polar bears are also said to attack people on sight and residents are only allowed to shoot them in self-defence.

Longyearbyen is a coal-mining town in the remote Svalbard chain of islands with a population of around 2,000 residentsAdvertisement

A rare 'sex manual' from 1720 revealing the most bizarre beliefs of Georgian England has been unearthed and could fetch hundreds of pounds at auction.

Titled Aristotle's Masterpiece, it was dubbed the dirtiest book of the time when it was first published.

The 300-year-old book offers a fascinating insight into attitudes towards sex at a time in Britain when witches were still burnt at the stake.

They include weird tips to help women avoid giving birth to children 'with a hairy lip, wry mouth or great blubber-lips' and advice on 'actions of the genitals'

It also advises men to eat meat, blackbirds and sparrows to 'make the seed abound' before engaging in 'conjugal embraces to invigorate mutual desires'.

The 'secrets of sex manual', which was banned until the 1960s, was discovered recently after being handed in to an auction house.

A rare 'sex manual' from 1720 revealing the most bizarre beliefs of Georgian England has been unearthed and could fetch hundreds of pounds at auction. The book claims parents' imaginations produce a child's features and includes an illustration of a 'maid all hairy and an infant that was born black by the imagination of the parents'

Women - who are portrayed as being prone to sexual indulgence - wanting a boy are advised to lie on their right hand side after sex or on their left for a girl, according to the manual.

It also talks of man being 'the wonder of the world, to whom all things are subordinate' and his seed should be seen as a 'divine gift abundantly endued with vital spirit'.

The book - 'Aristotle's Masterpiece Completed In Two Parts, The First Containing the Secrets of Generation' - will go under the hammer next month in Etwall, Derbyshire.

Jim Spencer, books and manuscripts valuer at Hanson's Auctioneers, said: 'The first edition of this book was published in 1684 and it was as good as banned until the 1960s.

'There were several reasons for that.

A sex manual from 1720 Georgian England touches on bestiality, including woodcut illustrations of 'monsters' that 'are begot by Women's unnatural lying with Beasts' - an example being a woman 'generating with a dog'

Pages from a sex manual from 1720. The 300-year-old book offers a fascinating insight into attitudes towards sex at a time in Britain when witches were still burnt at the stake. Pictured left is the first page of the book, and pictured right is an illustration of a man with 'four hands'

'For example, it includes woodcut illustrations of 'monsters' that 'are begot by Women's unnatural lying with Beasts' - an example being a woman 'generating with a dog'.

'There are several illustrations of beast-like creatures including a man sporting a bushy dog's tail and a monster being born in Ravenna, Italy, in 1512.

'This is blamed on "filthy and corrupt affection".

'But you have to bear in mind that this book was written when people were still being burnt for witchcraft in Georgian England.

'The book even claims parents' imaginations produce a child's features and includes an illustration of a 'maid all hairy and an infant that was born black by the imagination of the parents'.

'In fact, if women cast their eyes on ill-shaped bodies, 'the force of imagination' could produce a child with 'a hairy lip, wry mouth or great blubber-lips'.

'Instead, during sex woman were urged to 'earnestly look upon the man and fix her mind upon him.'

'Then 'the child will resemble its father'.

A sex manual from 1720 titled 'Aristotle's Masterpiece Completed In Two Parts' says that if women cast their eyes on ill-shaped bodies, 'the force of imagination' could produce a child with 'a hairy lip, wry mouth or great blubber-lips'

'A century after women first won the right to vote in the UK, this book takes us back to very different times.

'It talks of man being 'the wonder of the world, to whom all things are subordinate'.

'Meanwhile women are painted as being prone to sexual indulgence.'

The archaic manual, which is laced with elements of religion, witchcraft, old wives' tales and astrology, does also include traces of romance in time for Valentine's Day.

Pictured left is Jim Spencer, books and manuscripts valuer at Hanson's Auctioneers, with a sex manual from 1720 titled 'Aristotle's Masterpiece Completed In Two Parts'. Pictured right is the cover of the book

It states: 'Without doubt, the uniting of hearts in holy wedlock is of all conditions the happiest, for then a man has a second self to whom he can unravel his thoughts as well as a sweet companion in his labour'.

It also offers 'A Word of Advice to both Sexes in the Act of Copulation'.

The book reads: 'I do advise, before they begin their conjugal embraces to invigorate their mutual desires and make their flames burn with a fiercer ardour by those endearing ways that love can better teach than I can write.

WHAT ARE THE KEY EXTRACTS FROM ARISTOTLE'S MASTERPIECE? A 'sex manual' from 1720 that was banned until the 1960s due to its hocking content has been unearthed - and is set to be sold at auction next month. The book, entitled 'Aristotle's Masterpiece Completed In Two Parts, The First Containing the Secrets of Generation', was published in London - and contains a strange series of tips, warnings, declarations and discussions, including: The suggestion that a woman should 'earnestly look upon the man and fix her mind upon him' during sex - if she wants the child to resemble its father.

The suggestion that parents' imaginations produce a child's features, including an illustration of a 'maid all hairy and an infant that was born black by the imagination of the parents'.

If women cast their eyes on ill-shaped bodies, 'the force of imagination' could produce a child with 'a hairy lip, wry mouth or great blubber-lips', the book warns

Advising men to eat meat, blackbirds and sparrows to 'make the seed abound' before engaging in 'conjugal embraces to invigorate mutual desires'.

Talks of man being 'the wonder of the world, to whom all things are subordinate' and his seed should be seen as a 'divine gift abundantly endued with vital spirit'.

Women wanting a boy are advised to lie on their right hand side after sex or on their left if they want a girl.

Warnings not to engage in bestiality, including woodcut illustrations of 'monsters' that 'are begot by Women's unnatural lying with Beasts' - an example being a woman 'generating with a dog' represented by a man with a bushy dogs tail.

Suggesting that couples engage in passionate foreplay - the book reads: 'I do advise, before they begin their conjugal embraces to invigorate their mutual desires and make their flames burn with a fiercer ardour by those endearing ways that love can better teach than I can write. And when they have done what nature can require, a man must have a care he does not part too soon from the embraces of his wife.'

Advice on when a woman is ready to get married: 'The inclinations of maids in marriage is to be known by many symptoms for when they arrive to puberty (which is about the 14th or 15th year of their age) then their natural purgations begin to flow, and the blood which is no longer taken to augment their bodies abounding, fires up their minds to venery' (sexual indulgence).

Foods that can increase sexual desire in women: 'External causes may also incite 'em to it; for the spirits being brisk and inflamed when they arrive at this age, if they eat hard, fat things and spices, the body becomes more and more heated; whereby the desire to veneral embraces is very great,' the book reads.

Touching on pregnant women's cravings, the book reads that pregnant women have: 'greedy longings for things that are contrary to nutriments' such as 'coals, rubbish, chalk, hob-nails, leather, man's flesh and horse flesh'. Advertisement

Political correctness had not been invented when the nearly 300-year-old book, entitled 'Aristotle's Masterpiece Completed In Two Parts'. It contains primitive knowledge, laced with elements of religion, claims of monstrous births due to women lying with beasts, witchcraft, old wives tales and even astrology. Pictured left is an example of a 'monster born in Ravenna in Italy'

'And when they have done what nature can require, a man must have a care he does not part too soon from the embraces of his wife.

'The inclinations of maids in marriage is to be known by many symptoms for when they arrive to puberty (which is about the 14th or 15th year of their age) then their natural purgations begin to flow, and the blood which is no longer taken to augment their bodies abounding, fires up their minds to venery (sexual indulgence).

The book reads: 'The inclinations of maids in marriage is to be known by many symptoms for when they arrive to puberty (which is about the 14th or 15th year of their age) then their natural purgations begin to flow, and the blood which is no longer taken to augment their bodies abounding, fires up their minds to venery' (sexual indulgence)

'External causes may also incite 'em to it; for the spirits being brisk and inflamed when they arrive at this age, if they eat hard, fat things and spices, the body becomes more and more heated; whereby the desire to veneral embraces is very great.'

It even touches on pregnant women's 'greedy longings for things that are contrary to nutriments' such as 'coals, rubbish, chalk, hob-nails, leather, man's flesh and horse flesh'.

The book, which has an estimated value of between 80 and 120, will be sold on March 27.

WHAT WAS ARISTOTLE'S MASTERPIECE AND WHY WAS IT BANNED? Aristotle's Masterpiece was first published in 1684 and has seen many different editions since that time. The brazen teachings of the 'sex manual' meant it was banned all over the country. This was a book aimed at the common people that would have been cheaply printed in questionable establishments and sold 'under the table'. The first version borrowed most of its content from two earlier works, the Secret Miracles of Nature by Levinus Lemnius and the anonymous Complete Midwives Practice Enlarged. Due to the popularity of the content stored within the pages of the book, the copies were regularly used for their quasi-pornographic material and speculative tales. Used until they literally disintegrated, few remaining copies survive. It was considered at the time to be the original lover's guide and contains a bizarre mix of superstition and sex facts, about everything from the 'actions of the genitals' to the 'benefits of marriage'. It would often be the first window into a sexual world for teenage boys and was given to brides-to-be by their mothers before they consummated their marriage. The text itself is a peculiar mash-up of early seventeenth-century medical works and popular old wives' tales about sex and reproduction passed down through generations. The book did occupy some scientific ground as pull-out diagrams of the female anatomy featured to aid midwives in the delivery of children. The book is, rather unsurprisingly, not written by Aristotle - the real Aristotle lived nearly 2,000 years before. At the time, Aristotle was a commonly used pseudonym for books about reproduction and sex. The book was banned in the mid 17th century as several legal cases saw that books that were deemed too rude for publication were banned from sale. It wasn't until 1961 that the ban on the book was lifted. Despite the nationwide ban on the unusual script, it could be obtained from places throughout the British Empire such as New Zealand throughout its exile. After it became prohibited, the appeal of the book grew and sales thrived on the black market. In the modern era the British Library has the most copies of the book in the world, holding about thirty different early editions. Such was the draw of the book, it was even mentioned in the literary masterpiece Ulysses by James Joyce which was published in 1922. Mr Joyce wrote: 'Mr. Bloom turned over idly pages of . . . . Aristotle's Masterpiece. Crooked botched print. Plates: infants cuddled in a ball in bloodred wombs like livers of slaughtered cows.' AdvertisementAdvertisement

A nervous system that was dissected nearly 100 years ago is now the subject of a stunning display at a museum in Missouri.

The organ system was revealed after two med students, L.P. Ramsdell and M.A. Schalck, were handed a cadaver in 1925 and told to dissect it.

They began at the brain's base and worked their way down, managing to keep the system in one piece.

It took Ramsdell and Schalck 1,500 hours over the course of many months to dissect the body, according to Live Science.

Two med students in Missouri dissected a body in 1925 and worked on it for 1,500 hours to keep its nervous system intact. The result (pictured) can be found at the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine in Missouri

The result is on display at the Museum of of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri, where the body was dissected. The museum is run by the A.T. Still University (ATSU).

The identity of the person whose nervous system is on display is unknown. Museum director Jason Haxton told Live Science that the body likely came from a poor house or a prison.

These two were the main resources for people seeking medical cadavers in 1925.

But the person's remains have turned out to be pricey: Haxton told Live Science that the nervous system exhibit's estimated value was $1 million a decade ago.

He said of the exhibit: 'Medical students come into the museum and stare at it in amazement. Sometimes, they'll run in after a test to check their work. People familiar with dissection say this is truly a miracle piece.'

The experiment came about when Ramsdell and Schalck's work stood out after each person in their class had to dissect an arm.

The identity of the person the nervous system belonged to is unknown. But their remains have been valued at $1 million. According to the experts, only three similar dissections exist

'These two students' dissections were so detailed and so much better than any other students' that they were chosen to dissect an entire body,' Haxton explained.

Ramsdell and Schalck started at the brain stem and went down from there, cutting through the skin, protective tissue and muscle to reveal the spinal cord while clearing nerve fibers.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM? The nervous system is different from other organ systems because it does a variety of vital jobs at the same time (file photo) The central nervous system is made up of the spinal cord, optic nerves and brain. The nervous system is different from other organ systems because of the amount of functions it is responsible for. Most systems control only one function while the nervous system is in charge of many vital functions that occur at once. It is responsible for a number of processes, including thought, movement and the registration of sensations within the body. All voluntary movement, including speech and walking, occurs thanks to the nervous system. But it also controls involuntary movements, such as breathing and blinking. In addition to this, the system plays a hand in our emotions. It is also better protected than other organ systems in the body. Spinal column and skull bones protect the system and create a physical barrier around it. The syrnix, which is a space below these bones that is filled with fluid, provides shock absorbance. Advertisement

'After they cleared each nerve, they rolled them in cotton batting soaked in some kind of preservative. So, as they worked their way down, there was just a mass of little rolls of cotton,' Haxton said. The preservative chemicals used during the experiment are unknown.

Ramsdell and Schalck mounted the system, which took one year to dissect, on a piece of shellacked wood.

They put hundreds of labels on the display, and the finished product made its way to museums and medical conferences around the US.

Haxton said that only three similar dissections exist. Eleven years after Ramsdell and Schalck began their now world famous dissection, ATSU researchers duplicated their experiment and donated the nervous system to the Smithsonian Institution.

The other two can be found in Philadelphia and Thailand.A cigar-shaped object named 'Oumuamua sailed past Earth at 97,200mph (156,428km/h) in October.

It was first spotted by a telescope in Hawaii on 19 October, and was observed 34 separate times in the following week.

It is named after the Hawaiian term for 'scout' or 'messenger' and passed the Earth at about 85 times the distance to the moon.

It was the first interstellar object seen in the solar system, and it baffled astronomers.

Initially, it was thought the object could be a comet.

However, it displays none of the classic behavior expected of comets, such as a dusty, water-ice particle tail.

The asteroid is up to one-quarter mile (400 meters) long and highly-elongated - perhaps 10 times as long as it is wide.

That aspect ratio is greater than that of any asteroid or asteroid observed in our solar system to date.

But the asteroid's slightly red hue  specifically pale pink  and varying brightness are remarkably similar to objects in our own solar system.

Around the size of the Gherkin skyscraper in London, some astronomers were convinced it was piloted by aliens due to the vast distance the object traveled without being destroyed  and the closeness of its journey past the Earth.

Alien hunters at SETI  the Search for Extra-terrestrial Intelligence based at Berkeley University, California said there was a possibility the rock was an alien artefact.

But scientists from Queens University Belfast took a good look at the object and said it appears to be an asteroid, or planetesimal as originally thought.

Researchers believe the cigar-shaped asteroid had a 'violent past', after looking at the light bouncing off its surface.

They aren't exactly sure when the violent collision took place, but they believe the lonely asteroid's tumbling will continue for at least a billion years.During the 14th Century, Britain was in the depths of the Dark Ages.

Child mortality was high, up to a third of all children did not survive past the age of five due to illness, disease and poor medical knowledge.

Up to 20 per cent of women would die during child birth or because of post-birth infections.

If a person survived a risky childhood and lived in a time without war, the average life expectancy peaked at around 40-45 years of age.

The House of Plantagenet were the royals that oversaw the entire century; from Charles III through to the deposition of Richard II in 1399.

In the middle of the century, a four year span between 1347 to 1351 saw one of the worst pandemics of all time - The Black Death.

It killed an estimated 200 million people - between 30 and 60 per cent of the total European population.

The Oriental rat flea was infected with the Yersinia pestis bacterium which spread the plague through the dirty streets and villages that were so popular during this era as hygiene and germs were not understood.

As well as one of the worst cases of diseases in human history which killed millions of people, scores of people perished due to a lack of food thanks to The Great Famine which spanned from 1315 to 1317.

Poor weather conditions saw a terrible yield of grains and caused a Europe-wide food shortage.

Starvation accounted for millions of death and a rise in crime, cannibalism and infanticide during this time.

If childbirth, diseases, plague or starvation didn't cause a premature death many people met their end in a more violent manner as conflicts were commonplace.

The Hundred Years' War (which lasted 116 years from 1337 to 1453) was a series of conflicts waged between the kingdoms of England and France over the 'rightful' succession to the French throne.

In 1381, the working-class people snapped back at the affluent rulers in the 'Great Rising' or the 'Peasants revolt' in which 1,500 rebels died in protest against poor living conditions and increasing taxes.Feb. 12, 1998

AUBURN  Philip Lyons now faces the possibility of spending the rest of his days behind bars.

In about six hours, a 10-man, two-woman jury Wednesday found Lyons guilty of second-degree murder, count two of a four-count indictment against him. In addition, the jury found Lyons guilty on counts three and four, second- and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

Lyons, 52, of 29 Hamilton Ave., faces 25 years to life in prison on the murder count. He faces a maximum sentence of 7 1/2 to 15 years on the second-degree weapon charge and 2 1/3 to 7 years on the third-degree weapon charge.

County Judge Peter Corning set Lyons' sentencing for Feb. 26. Lyons is being held in the county jail pending his sentencing.

Lyons shot and killed Peter Sparano July 30, 1997, in the parking lot of the vacant Green Shutters Restaurant in Owasco. Lyons claimed self-defense, saying a jealous Sparano viciously attacked him and Sparano's wife, Pat, as the two sat talking along the side door opening of Lyons' van.

The jury's verdict ended his eight-day trial, which started Feb. 2. In convicting Lyons of the murder charge, the jury found that Lyons acted "recklessly, with a depraved indifference to human life" in killing Sparano.

 Compiled by David Wilcox

Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0Amsterdam may be known for its deep-fried bitterballen and street-cart stroopwafel, but its also home to some of the best fine-dining restaurants in the world. Whether youre splashing out for a special occasion, want to tick another eatery from the Michelin guide off your list, or fancy yourself as a bit of a wine expert, our picks are sure to grant you a gastronomical experience you wont forget.

De Culinaire Werkplaats explores inspirational concepts in their search for new tastes, textures, food pairings or new ways of eating & drinking

The Duchess

If the words fine dining conjure images of sparkling chandeliers, lots of marble, and gleaming crystal glasses, then The Duchess is the restaurant for you. Its inspired by Londons elegant service and Viennas splendour, and the menu is brimming with indulgent French and Italian dishes. Truffle is sprinkled on dishes like salt, and lobster shares its plate with king crab, while caviar accompanies sauce-laden spaghetti and foie gras is stuffed inside fluffy doughnuts with fig jam. The restaurant is open SundayWednesday 0700-0100 and ThursdaySaturday 07000200.

Tram: Dam

De Culinaire Werkplaats

Every couple of months Marjolein and Eric  the owners of De Culinaire Werkplaats  come up with a new theme on which to base their vegan-friendly set menu on. Previous themes have included flowers, waterworks, and what it means to be Dutch, and every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced, seasonal and from the earth. Expect foams, smears and pipettes. The restaurant is open ThursdaySaturday 18002300, Sunday 13002200.

Tram: Van L.Stirumstraat

"Silence, one of the new luxuries", a unique food concept by De Culinaire Werkplaats

Restaurant Moon

Youll be hard pushed to find a better panoramic view of Amsterdam than at Moon, a fine-dining restaurant that rotates around the 19th floor of the ADAM Tower. You can choose from five, six or seven courses, or the Full Moon  and youll sample classic-with-a-twist dishes like zesty oysters with cucumber and ginger, spicy steak tartare with caviar, shoulder of beef with truffle and kaffir lime, and every month, a different dish created in collaboration with a musical guest chef. The restaurant is open daily 1800-2130.

Tram: Central, then Veer Buiksloterweg ferry

Moon, the revolving restaurant located on the 19th floor of the landmark ADAM Toren, offers a unique fine dining experience with a spectacular 360 panorama of Amsterdam

BordEau Restaurant Gastronomique

At BordEau theres a belief that there are only a few processes that will genuinely improve the taste of an ingredient. And once you see the menu  think wild hare cooked low and slow, then stirred through salty, buttery tagliatelle; duck liver steamed above a seaweed broth; oyster ice cream  youll understand both the philosophy and why they have a Michelin star. This is one for the wine connoisseurs too, as it boasts more than 850 labels and was honoured by Wine Spectator as having one of the most outstanding lists in the world. Expect to pay around 100 a head for food alone. The restaurant is open TuesdayFriday 12002230, Saturday 18302230.

Bus: Muntplein

Marits Eetkamer

By not having a menu, Marits Eetkamer is able to buy whatever is in season at that time of year  and it lends the meat-free menu an element of fun and thoughtfulness that can be hard to find elsewhere. Everything is organic, vegetarian or vegan, and bought locally, and theres real personality and colour to every dish. In the summer, ask for a seat in the greenhouse for a unique ambience. Three courses costs just 30, or you can plump for five for 42. The restaurant is open ThursdaySaturday 1800-2200.

Tram: Camperstraat

If you fancy gourmet food without the fuss of knowing which fork to use, head to Daalder

De Librijes Zusjes Amsterdam

Two key things to know about this restaurant: it won two Michelin stars within seven months of opening, and, Executive Chef Sidney Schutte has been acknowledged as SVH Meesterkok  the highest recognition a chef can achieve in The Netherlands. Thats a lot to live up to, but De Librijes Zusjes inventive menu does not disappoint. Expect blue lobster with duck tongue and lychee, short rib with ginger and watermelon, wild fungi with pink peppercorn and BBQ white chocolate, and popcorn and jalapeno tacos. This is a great option if you have veggies in your group, as the meat-free set menu is just as exciting as the standard one. The restaurant is open TuesdayThursday 18302230, FridaySaturday 12302230.

Tram: Keizersgracht

Restaurant Senses

Head chef of Senses, Lars Bertelsen, looks to out-of-the-ordinary ingredients and the latest techniques to create art on a plate. You wont know what kind of gastronomical journey youre going on before arriving at the restaurant, but its guaranteed to be a treat for all five senses. In the past, pigeon has been served beneath a smoking bowl, while coffee crumb-topped veal cheek balances between bread crisps, and white chocolate and beetroot truffles sit in the curve of a rose-gold oyster shell. The restaurant is open TuesdayThursday 18302230, FridaySaturday 12302230.

Tram: Muntplein

Restaurant Daalder

If you fancy gourmet food without the fuss of knowing which fork to use, head to Daalder. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined  it feels a lot like a neighbourhood bistro  and the menu changes from night to night. Celebrating something special? Choose Daalders Full Experience and youll get a champagne welcome, wine pairings for each of the seven courses, and cheese, port and homemade petite fours to finish. The restaurant is open daily 12002200.

Tram: LindengrachtTwo airlines have been accused of illegally charging credit and debit card fees to UK holidaymakers.

New rules, which came into force last month, ban credit and debit card surcharges for British customers.

But Dutch-based KLM and Air France were found to be illegally charging fees to credit and debit card users booking via their UK websites.

Airlines KLM and Air France have been accused of illegally charging credit and debit card fees to UK holidaymakers

Both airlines blamed a banking mix-up for the issue.

A probe by consumer experts at Which? Money found the airlines may have been using flawed technology to incorrectly charge users a fee.

Which? investigated after a series of complaints from customers of Air France and KLM - now part of the airline group AFKLM - and found both were applying a two per cent fee for payments with some MasterCard and all American Express credit cards online.

From January 13 new EU rules banned retailers from charging customers a fee to use Visa and Mastercard credit or debit cards, with the exception of corporate cards.

The ban on surcharges has been widely adopted by government bodies and retailers, including airlines and travel companies.

UK legislation has gone further than other EU states, banning retailers from charging a fee on any 'payment instrument', including American Express and payment platforms like PayPal, although commercial cards are excluded. Air France and KLM are based in Europe, so do not have to comply with these more robust payment rules, despite marketing to UK consumers on a UK website.

A probe by Which? found that KLM charged an extra 16.27 for a trip from London to Mauritius

Which? investigators booked flights on the UK websites for KLM and Air France using three personal credit cards and a debit card.

The payment pages for both airlines gave the option to pay by PayPal, bank transfer, credit or debit card. The option to pay by credit card warned that a fee may apply.

Air France charged fees of up 2.13 for a flight from London to Paris, while KLM charged 16.27 for a trip from London to Mauritius.

Which? Money said these rogue charges are probably not limited to Air France and KLM.

Air France charged fees of up 2.13 for a flight from London to Paris, an investigation by Which? found

It found both airlines were using payment technology that mistakenly classes personal credit cards as business ones, which can be charged a fee.

Gareth Shaw, Which? Money expert said: 'The ban on surcharges should stop consumers being penalised simply for using their card.

'However, we have found ways that UK consumers may be caught out by confusing rules.

'If you are charged a fee for payment by Mastercard because the card was incorrectly classed as business rather than personal, challenge the airline and you should get your money back.

'Companies based in Europe can also continue to legally charge for payments using American Express as they dont have to fall into line with the UKs stronger regulations.

'To avoid the type of charges that we've discovered, think carefully about how you choose to pay for flights with certain airlines and look around to see if you can book the same flight for the same price without paying a surcharge.'

A spokesman for AFKLM added: 'Where Air France and KLM incorrectly applied a credit card surcharge, customers will be refunded.'Disneyland Paris has unveiled plans to open a brand new Marvel-themed attraction at one of its theme parks.

The resort, to the east of the French capital, wants to bring the superheroes to life with a roller coaster and a live stage production at the Walt Disney Studios.

The news was announced on Monday by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts chairman Bob Chapek during the D23 Expo in Japan.

An artist's impression of the new Marvel-themed attraction that is being planned for Disneyland Paris

Disney says that the addition of the roller coaster provides a permanent presence for Marvel in the parks

More than 2,000 fans were at the expo to hear about the latest projects in development for Disney properties all over the world.

The new ride will see the current Rock 'n' Rollercaster starring Aerosmith completely reimagined into a new attraction where riders will team up with Iron Man and their favourite Avengers on a 'high-speed, hyper-kinetic adventure'.

Disney says that the addition of the roller coaster provides a permanent presence for Marvel in the parks.

Meanwhile from this June, The Avengers will 'assemble during Marvel Summer of Super Heroes, which will bring guests face-to-face with Captain America, Spider-Man, Star-Lord and Black Widow'.

Disney's Hotel New York in Paris will soon be rebranded as Disney's Hotel New York - The Art of Marvel, pictured, and will showcase the world of the Avengers

These characters will take to the stage in a live-action super-production featuring cutting-edge special effects, spectacular projections, and lots of other surprises.

Catherine Powell, president of Euro Disney, said: 'These ambitious Marvel developments across Disneyland Paris will create brand new immersive Super Hero experiences for our guests, and will enhance the overall appeal of our resort.'

However, it is not just the theme parks that are being given a comic book-style makover.

Disney's Hotel New York in Paris will soon be rebranded as Disney's Hotel New York - The Art of Marvel and will showcase the world of the Avengers.

It will feature exclusive artwork and a new design.

Disney says the new developments build on the momentum of the resort's 25th Anniversary celebration and follow the recent news that Walt Disney Parks and Resorts is preparing to incorporate more popular stories and characters into the tourist destination.

The new attraction comes as Disney parks in both Florida and California are also being extended.

In Florida a Toy Story land will open in the summer while a Star Wars attraction will follow in 2019. An identical Star Wars area will also open in California at the same time.She has all but confirmed she has failed to find love with her 'husband' Ryan Gallagher on Married At First Sight, with things going from bad to worse for the couple in the past week.

And it appears that Davina Rankin has now given up on reality love altogether, heading back to dating apps.

The busty 25-year-old model has been spotted back on Tinder.

Scroll down for video

Would you swipe right? Married At First Sight star Davina Rankin is on TINDER... after her relationship with 'husband' Ryan Gallagher continues to go from bad to worse

'Things weren't working out with Ryan on the show,' a source reportedly told NW.

'Davina decided to take matters into her own hands, and have a flick through her old Tinder account to see if anyone struck her fancy.'

Her profile picture shows Davina sitting in a buggy flaunting her bronzed lean legs in a printed mini-dress, the stunner flashed her pearly whites.

Second time lucky? 'Davina decided to take matters into her own hands, and have a flick through her old Tinder account to see if anyone struck her fancy' a source has said

Single and ready to mingle? According to her Facebook page, her status is 'single'

Providing her Snapchat and Instagram handles in advance for potential matches rather than 'marriage at first sight', Davina also ensured they were aware of her Australian heritage adding a koala emoji.

And it seems as though the Zoo cover girl is ready to mingle.

According to her Facebook page, her status is 'single'.

Mum-to-be? But her swiping might not all be for fun, with NW also reporting on Monday that Davina is looking for a partner to start a family

But her swiping might not all be for fun, with NW also reporting on Monday that Davina is looking for a partner to start a family.

The publication revealed she and her friend Rob have a 'secret baby pact' to have a child together is they remain single.

'He would make the perfect dad and she knows that they could co-parent well together, because they have such a great relationship already,' a 'friend' told the magazine.

The source added that Davina wants a child before she turns 35, and even though she still has another ten years before she reaches that milestone, she can't wait to be a mother.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Davina and Ryan for comment.Hes the fiery MKR mentor who is an expert at handling culinary calamities in the kitchen.

But on Monday, Colin Fassnidge revealed he attended to a serious medical emergency at the beach.

The Irish chef told the Daily Telegraph, the incident took place whilst he was enjoying a summer holiday on the NSW South Coast with his wife and daughters.

'Ive had a stroke: MKR Judge, Colin Fassnidge, 44, involved in medical emergency on NSW South Coast

As Fassnidge was walking along the beach, he noticed a man staggering out of the ocean.

Myself and another woman, who was a nurse, ran over to him and walked him out. His wife said, he cant talk. And I thought thats like a stroke, he said.

Fassnidge was walking along a NSW South Coast beach when he noticed a man staggering out of the ocean. He told the Daily Telegraph, Myself and another woman, who was a nurse, ran over to him and walked him out. His wife said, he cant talk. And I thought thats like a stroke.'

The My Kitchen Rules judge added, We put him in the recovery position and the nurse called an ambulance. While we waited I just held his hand, rubbed his head and kept talking to him. He said, Ive had a stroke so I stayed with him.

Despite the pressure-cooker conditions, the 44-year-old described a brief moment of comedic respite.

The girl from the ambulance asked if hed ingested sea water and I said hed been vomiting and I saw hed eaten rice and the girl said, I hope it wasnt your food, he said.

"I hope it wasn't your food": Despite the pressure-cooker conditions, the 44-year-old described a brief moment of comedic respite. The girl from the ambulance asked if hed ingested sea water and I said hed been vomiting and I saw hed eaten rice and the girl said, I hope it wasnt your food, he said.

Fassnidge has a lot on his plate this year, as MKR unveils a major stir-up of the elimination process.

The new MKR elimination process forces the contestants out of their comfort zone, as now the two teams, facing sudden death will compete in a cook-off in separate kitchens inside a fancy mansion, in place of the typical studio kitchen.

Fassnidge will provide guidance, support and tough-love to the contestants during the revamped cook-off.

MKR continues tonight on Channel 7 at 7:30pm.He rose to fame on season four of Married At First Sight.

And Nick Furphy stepped out to a rooftop party in Melbourne on Sunday with a decidedly brighter grin.

The 31-year-old flashed his new pearly whites as he enjoyed a Miller beverage at the St Kilda Festival event.

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Luminous: Married At First Sight star Nick Furphy stepped out to a rooftop party in Melbourne on Sunday with a decidedly brighter grin

The ginger-haired bachelor beamed as he posed for promotional photos in a red button-up shirt and fitted black jeans.

His luminous smile was in contrast to older snaps of the reality star, where his ivories were unmistakably less phosphorescent.

Nick is reportedly back on the dating scene after splitting with model Amy-Lee Dixon last month.

Bright: The 31-year-old flashed his new pearly whites as he enjoyed a Miller beverage at the St Kilda Festival event

Dapper: The ginger-haired bachelor beamed as he posed for promotional photos in a red button-up shirt and fitted black jeans

His 'ex-wife' and MAFS co-star, Sharon Marsh, had little sympathy for her former flame's latest breakup when she recently spoke with Daily Mail Australia about it.

'If a guy ain't shaping up - you ship out!' she exclaimed.

Nick confirmed the relationship between himself and pageant princess Amy-Lee was over one day earlier.

Changes: His luminous smile was in contrast to older snaps of the reality star, where his ivories were unmistakably less phosphorescent

'Amy and I have unfortunately gone our separate ways,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

Before Nick and Amy-Lee's brief romance, the Melbourne native shared an intense relationship with his 'instant bride' Sharon.

Their fairy tale came to end in July last year, when Sharon announced the surprise collapse of their union.My Kitchen Rules stars Matt and Aly have revealed they're expecting their first child together, a baby boy.

The couple - who are yet to appear on the latest season of the show - shared their excitement, with Aly revealing she suffered morning sickness on set.

'I had to run out of a couple of the interviews to be sick,' Aly, 25, told TV Week on Tuesday.

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Another MKR baby! New contestants Matt and Aly (seen) reveal they're expecting their first child together...after former stars Tully and Court welcomed their bundles of joy

She added that some dishes at instant restaurants made her feel ill.

Matt, 26, said the pair - dubbed the 'defence force foodies'- found out they were expecting a baby on the first day of filming.

'We're having a boy, it's so exciting,' Matt said.

It comes after the likes of former contestants Tully (seen) and Court welcomed babies

Aly said her pregnancy made her stress less, adding that she had made sure to keep the pregnancy a secret during filming- even from producers.

'We knew it would become a big thing, so we kept it under wraps,' Matt said.

Matt also told New Idea that he already wants to have more children.

'I dare say it won't just be one!' he winked.

The happy news comes after former contestants, Tully and Court, both welcomed babies.

In July last year, Sarah 'Tully' Vella welcomed her first child after appearing on MKR, a daughter named Margot Jo.

Familiar face: Tully is seen on the show (R)

Sweet: In August, MKR stars Court and Duncan Hall-Eastery welcomed their first child, a daughter named Isla

'Mum and Dad are very proud and high on love drugs,' she said, referring to her husband, Kurt.

In August, MKR stars Court and Duncan Hall-Eastery welcomed their first child, a daughter named Isla.

Court previously posted about their little bundle of joy on Instagram, writing: 'Isla Hall-Eastey has arrived,' alongside a picture of the newborn yawning in her bed.

'She has big eyes and a button nose and is quick becoming our most favourite.'Her next film, Dumplin', is set for release later this year and she's signed on to star in a TV series with Reese Witherspoon.

But despite her hectic schedule, Jennifer Aniston's life with husband Justin Theorux, 46, is just perfect, according to People.

'Jennifers life with Justin is great,' said a source of the actress, who turned 49 on Sunday.

Perfect match: Despite her hectic schedule, Jennifer Aniston's life with husband Justin Theorux, 46, is just perfect, according to People

According to the magazine's source, the Friends actress and her Mulholland Drive star husband of two years have found that absence does indeed make the heart grow fonder.

'They have figured out a life that works for them.'

'They love and respect each other and do spend a lot of time apart. For them, it is a healthy part of their romance.'

Winners are grinners: 'Jennifers life with Justin is great,' said a source of the actress, who turned 49 on Sunday

The Horrible Bosses star recently welcomed readers inside the stunning Bel Air estate she shares with her husband Justin Theroux for Architectural Digest magazine.

She purchased the property seven years ago for $21 million, then renovated with the help of a team of interior designers.

'I look around at my husband and my dogs and our home, and there's nowhere else I want to be,' the actress explained to the publication.Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes has broken his silence about disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein, with whom he worked on his ITV drama, Doctor Thorne.

Speaking for the first time since the Hollywood producer was accused of sexual harassment last year, Lord Fellowes admits he deliberately overlooked rumours about Weinstein's behaviour because he wanted his show to be successful.

'Did I know what was going on? I knew the rumours and I think the reality exceeded the rumours  if what everyone's saying happened, happened,' says Fellowes.

'But in the end Harvey was a very talented producer and he marketed the show in America very well.

'And because I'm a man, and not a particularly good-looking one, that was all there was to it. He was buying a product, and he sold it well, and I'm grateful for that.'

Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes (pictured) has broken his silence about disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein, with whom he worked on his ITV drama, Doctor Thorne

Doctor Thorne was the 2016 adaptation of Anthony Trollope's novel starring Tom Hollander, Rebecca Front and Prince Harry's ex-girlfriend Cressida Bonas, whom Weinstein labelled 'my biggest discovery as an actress this year'.

Despite Fellowes's attempt to secure a big audience in the U.S. through the Weinstein Company, Doctor Thorne received mixed reviews in Britain and was not continued after its first series.

Speaking at the Services To Film inaugural gala dinner, in aid of Walking With The Wounded, Fellowes adds: 'I don't think I can say I regret working with him.

I think subsequent events have cast a shadow, as they must, but all through our lives we go through situations without understanding the significance of them.'

Downton Abbey (cast pictured) mastermind Lord Fellowes admits he deliberately overlooked rumours about Weinstein's behaviour because he wanted his show to be successful

He stresses, however, that he doesn't condone Weinstein's behaviour and thinks the industry will change as a result of the revelations.

'I don't think I'd taken a proper view of it,' he adds. 'I think it woke us all up, to a certain extent.

'And while I know we're going through a rather bumpy time, I think that if the end product is a world where women are not objectified any more than men, or any more than anyone, and they're given a proper shake in the workplace, then that will be a better place than the one we're in now.'

Hard to believe this is a former Bond girl! Film star Jane Seymour looked nothing like her glamorous self when she went to a Mardi Gras party in New Orleans at the weekend.

The 66-year-old from Hayes, Middlesex, who shot to fame as the sultry Solitaire in Live And Let Die, posted this snap of herself online wearing a purple dress, a bubblegum pink wig, garish accessories and a floral headband.

The bizarre look, she explained, was a combination of flamboyant comic Dame Edna Everage and Barney, the purple dinosaur from the children's TV series.

Film star Jane Seymour (pictured) looked nothing like her glamorous self when she went to a Mardi Gras party in New Orleans at the weekend

Posh crooner James Blunt admits that being a successful pop artist causes friction at home.

The 43-year-old says his wife Sofia Wellesley, granddaughter of the 8th Duke of Wellington, gets distressed by his lyrics.

'I'm married so I can't be continually writing miserable songs, because she gets worried,' explains Blunt.

'But misery sells, so I do have to say to her, 'Hey, you know, darling, in this album I'm going to write some really miserable songs  but they're not about us!'

Posh crooner James Blunt admits that being a successful pop artist causes friction at home

When the Queen's bridesmaid Lady Pamela Hicks contracted life-threatening pneumonia last month, she was kept waiting on an NHS hospital trolley for 20 hours.

Happily, the 88-year-old daughter of Earl Mountbatten, who is also a cousin of Prince Philip, appears to be making a speedy recovery.

At the weekend, she was pictured for the first time since her illness holding her one-month-old grandson Caspian, the son of interior designer Ashley Hicks and his fashionista wife, Kata.

When the Queen's bridesmaid Lady Pamela Hicks contracted life-threatening pneumonia last month, she was kept waiting on an NHS hospital trolley for 20 hours. She is pictured with her one-month old grandson Caspian

In January, Lady Pamela's daughter India revealed the aristocrat was taken to hospital in an ambulance in the middle of the night after collapsing at her home, and said she was left on a trolley because every bed in the hospital was taken.

Lady Pamela has since been convalescing in the comfort of her own bed in Oxfordshire.

Richmond Park MP Zac Goldsmith, who welcomed his sixth child, a daughter named Edie, last year, has discovered that babies and pets don't always mix  especially when his rescue dog, Murphy, gets involved.

'He loves retrieving nappies from the nappy bin and burying them in the bed,' says Zac.They've been married 21 years after meeting at college in Washington D.C.

And it's obvious Rachel Zoe is still madly in love with Rodger Berman.

The 46-year-old celebrity stylist and designer gave her husband, also 46, a cute kiss at Brandon Maxwell's Fall Winter 2018 show at New York Fashion Week on Sunday.

Cute PDA: Rachel Zoe planted a sweet kiss on the cheek of Rodger Berman, her husband of 21 years, at Brandon Maxwell's Fall Winter 2018 show at New York Fashion Week on Sunday

The beautiful blonde had no qualms about her very public display of affection and Rodger obviously didn't mind as he smiled happily.

The fashionista was decked out in a long black coat trimmed with ostrich feathers that she wore over sparkly black and gold blouse with a deep V-neck.

She teamed them with black pants with wide legs that completely covered her shoes - a signature look for Rachel.

Cuddling up: The celebrity couple, both 46, posed before the start of the show

Her face was expertly made up and her lips were painted bright red, another of Zoe's favorites.

Rodger looked dapper in a black overcoat with a black and plum colored scarf draped around his neck, jeans and black shoes.

The couple share sons Skyler, six, and Kai, four, and they were likely back home in Los Angeles while mom and dad hit all the shows.

Sparkling chic: The fashionista was decked out in a long black coat trimmed with ostrich feathers that she wore over sparkly black and silver blouse and pants

All star line up: From left, Emmy Rossum, Derek Blasberg, Rachel, Karolna Kurkova, Christina Ricci, Nicky Hilton Rothschild and Hilary Rhoda had coveted front seats for the show

Meanwhile, Zoe had her own Fall Fashion 2018 Presentation at The Jeremy Hotel in West Hollywood on Monday evening.

Walking to a soundtrack heavy on Stevie Nicks and 80s disco tunes, models stepped out in looks that Zoe described to The Hollywood Reporter pre-show as 'very glam-rock, very sensual but not overtly sexy.

'All my favorite elements in one collection: sequins, jewel-tone velvets, gold lace, silk fringe, high boots and platform heels. Happiness.'An open house will be held by the state Department of Transportation at the Brutus Town Hall on Thursday to discuss a Bonta Bridge Road bridge maintenance project.

Preliminary drawings for the project will be available, and DOT representatives will be present to answer questions from the community, the agency said on Monday. No formal presentation is planned.

The preliminary plans for Bonta Bridge Road include steel repairs and removing existing paint to repaint the bridge that crosses over the Seneca River. The bridge will be closed to all traffic while under construction, and traffic will be detoured off-site to Ditmar Road, Route 34 and Route 31. Access to driveways will be maintained at all times.

The work is expected to be done during the 2018 construction season, the DOT said. Contact engineer Kurt Bower at (315) 428-4810 if a sign language interpreter, assisted listening system or other accommodation will be required to facilitate your participation in the open house.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0*SPOILER ALERT*

Its been an eight-week audition to play 007  and after starting the series in a Bond-style tuxedo, McMafia star James Norton ended it as an executioner. His character Alex Godman  the son of a Russian oligarch, drawn into an intricate web of organised crime  completed his transformation from City financier to cold-blooded killer as he shot the man who ordered his uncles murder.

Sometimes it was mad, occasionally it was bad, but in the end I came to love McMafia ( BBC1) and everyone in it, including the unlucky uncle who was killed with a caviar knife and even evil Colonel Federov (Kirill Pirogov) who may have been bad, but was forgiven because he looked so much like a man who once played bass for an Eighties boyband, perhaps A Flock of Seagullski.

Its been an eight-week audition to play 007  and after starting the series in a Bond-style tuxedo, McMafia star James Norton ended it as an executioner

Half the time it was impossible to work out what was going on, and what didnt help was that James Nortons character Alex Godman barely changed expression for night.

The eight part series ended last night, with a bang, a whimper and the kind of gritty swagger surely intended to pave the way for a second series.

Alex had arrived in Moscow ready to do business, unaware that his daft dolt of a dad Dimitri (Aleksey Serebryakov) had only gone and accidentally had the daughter of the familys arch rival killed.

As we had previously seen mafioso boss Vadim (Merab Ninidze) travel across a continent just to beat an adversary until his head resembled plum jam, we knew his rage would be awful to behold, and his lust for revenge unquenchable.

Sometimes it was mad, occasionally it was bad, but in the end I came to love McMafia ( BBC1) and everyone in it

A thrilling chase on foot through the service tunnels for the Moscow underground soon followed, with Vadim proving that he could hear a man whimpering with fear a thousand yards away.

After a lifetime of brutality, his cruel ears were forever cocked for suffering. Alex escaped with only his shirt tail flapping, his expression as impenetrable as ever, even his neat cap of (possibly bearskin?) hair was untouched by terror. Later, in the final showdown between the two men, one of them had to die.

A gunshot rang out, but did it herald the end of Alex, or merely the end of his innocence? McMafia has divided viewers. Many complained about the confusing storylines and the fact that so much of the dialogue was in Russian, with English subtitles.

So far, so 007: Engaged Alex only just resists the charms of another woman earlier in the series, right

While it had its faults, McMafia deserves credit for tackling such a byzantine subject as the corrosive, international reach of the Russian mafia with style and no little energy.

Fans who invested and stayed the course were rewarded with a rich and complex series; the last two episodes in particular were terrific. In a series where the action switched from banks to boardrooms, from safe houses to dimly lit interrogation rooms, deployment of stubble was a reliable indicator of badness.

This did not apply to the female head of SMERSH or whoever she was (told you it was confusing), who looked more like a Russian supermodel and quite possibly spent a lot of time swopping eyelash curling tips with Alexs pale-eyed bodyguard Joseph (Oshri Cohen) between takes. Much of the action was motivated by power and suppressed rage.

Arch rival: Mafioso boss Vadim, left, clutches a bloody stomach wound. Vadim told Alex that to be a successful mobster he had to forget love, friendship and intimacy, surely no great loss given that his girlfriend was such a drip?

Revenge: Alex Godman gets even in the series finale. He completed his transformation from City financier to cold-blooded killer as he shot the man who ordered his uncles murder

Vadims hand twitched when the coffin lid was closed on his daughters face. Alex had a cheek muscle spasm that depicted his interior turmoil, along with a lot of fiddling about the with jacket buttons of one of his perfect suits.

His immaculate tailoring was a reflection of his zipped up nature  but what had been unleashed inside? Vadim told Alex that to be a successful mobster he had to forget love, friendship and intimacy, surely no great loss given that his girlfriend was such a drip?

In the very last scene Alex marches towards the camera, lantern jaw set with determination, looking the very picture of an elegant, modern, civilised businessman, someone who wouldnt hurt a fly even if it landed in their borscht. We know he has been corrupted, but how deep does the rot go? And will we find out in another series?New York Fashion Week continues to gather the hottest models from around the world.

And Romee Strijd was joined by fellow Victoria's Secret model, Jourdan Dunn, on the catwalk at the Brandon Maxwell New York Fashion Week show in New York City on Sunday.

The models both matched as they were dressed in elegant high-slit ensembles that showed off their toned and lengthy pins.

Thigh's the limit! Romee Strijd was joined by fellow Victoria's Secret model, Jourdan Dunn, on the catwalk at the Brandon Maxwell New York Fashion Week show in New York City on Sunday

Romee oozed elegance as she donned a plum colored gown that featured a turtleneck and a bow at the waist.

The Dutch model was styled to perfection as she ditched the heels to rock fur covered backless loafers.

Romee's iconic blonde strands were slicked back into a low ponytail which displayed her black with gold statement earrings.

The Victoria's Secret Angel finished off her runway look with a red pout and a classic cat-eye.

Turning heads! Romee oozed elegance as she donned a plum colored gown that featured a turtleneck and a bow at the waist

Jourdan was also styled in a tasteful silver ribbed sequins gown that showed off her pins.

The British model added height to her statuesque frame with dark gray open-toed heels that wrapped around the ankles.

Jourdan wore her black bob-cut tresses parted down the middle, and finished her make-up look simple with red lipstick.

Fierce: Jourdan was also styled in a tasteful silver ribbed sequins gown that showed off her pins

Behind the scenes: Jourdan receives a touch up backstage before the show

Pucker up: The raven-haired beauty has lip liner applied by a makeup artist

Romee and Jourdan were joined by multiple other A-listers on the runway such as: Karlie Kloss, Joan Smalls, and Gigi and Bella Hadid.

All the models who walked the runway in the new Autumn/Winter 2018 collection oozed chic and sophistication.

Brandon Maxwell - who is notoriously known for his high-end elegant creations - styled the catwalk in pink roses and magenta lighting.

Style and grace: Romee and Jourdan were joined by multiple other A-listers on the runway such as: Karlie Kloss, Joan Smalls, and Gigi and Bella Hadid

The next big thing: All the models who walked the runway in the new Autumn/Winter 2018 collection oozed chic and sophistication

Finishing touch! Brandon Maxwell - who is notoriously known for his high-end elegant creations - styled the catwalk in pink roses and magenta lighting

Mission complete: Dunn left the show rocking thigh high leather boots, black Mother jeans, and a canary yellow jacketJennifer Garner is the kind of mom that can do it all.

The 45-year-old actress had a whirlwind of a Sunday as she spent her morning at a Brentwood charity run before putting on her troop leader hat to sell Girl Scout cookies outside of a local grocery store.

The mom-of-three later took to Instagram to announce that she was taking a limited number of cookie orders from her fans.

Wonder woman! Jennifer Garner had a whirlwind of a Sunday as she spent her morning at a Brentwood charity run before putting on her troop leader hat to sell Girl Scout cookies outside of a local grocery store

Good cause! The proceeds of the community run went to Upward Bound Housea charity working to end homelessness in Los Angeles

Garner was spotted in her workout gear Sunday morning alongside her kidsViolet, 12, Seraphina, 9, and Samuel, fivefor the Home Run For Kids 5K in Brentwood.

The proceeds of the community run went to Upward Bound Housea charity working to end homelessness in Los Angeles.

Following the walk, Jennifer was spotted promoting Girl Scout cookies in the parking lot of a grocery store.

'Why yes, kind sir, we do have Thin Mints,' she said in an Instagram post.

Her hashtags included #tistheseason, #comeandgetem, and #whodoesntloveagirlscout.

Work up a sweat! Garner was spotted in her workout gear Sunday morning alongside her kidsViolet, 12, Seraphina, 9, and Samuel, fivefor the Home Run For Kids 5K in Brentwood

Just do it! The mom-of-three was seen in a pair of Nike tennis shoes and all black workout gear

Sunday rituals! Garner and her kids also attended a church service

Sympathetic and maybe desperate to sell more boxes, the troop leader announced on Instagram that she'd be accepting cookie orders via direct message.

'Good afternoon, I am so distressed to find out that some people don't have access to a Girl Scout or Girl Scout cookies,' she said in her Instagram story. 'And while my Girl Scout and Brownie have to sell their own cookies, I did buy a limited number of boxes from them to share with you guys.

'So if you truly have no Girl Scout in your life. Please send me your order and your address and I will try to hook you up,' she continued. 'Because what would this time of year be like without Thin Mints and Samoas and now there are gluten free Savannah Smiles and the newest ones are Girl Scout S'mores.'

Distracted? The 13 Going On 30 star checked her messages as she walked

Come and get em! Following the walk, Jennifer was spotted promoting Girl Scout cookies in the parking lot of a grocery store

Garner is co-parenting with ex-husband Ben Affleck whom she split from back in April 2017.

Ben and Jen are friendly exes as the two have been spotted on several occasions out and about with their kids.

The actress got candid in November with an Australian news outlet about their divorce.

'I would not have chosen this life for myself or for my kids,' the 13 Going On 30 star said. 'I would not choose to be single or be in this position. Its something that we are working through.'

Limited time offer! Sympathetic and maybe desperate to sell more boxes, the troop leader took to Instagram to announce she'd be accepting cookie orders via direct messageHe became a dad for the first time when he welcomed his child with wife Georgia in January.

And McFly's Danny Jones revealed son Cooper Alf was almost born at home after Georgia went into labour nine days after the due date.

Talking to Hello! Magazine, 31 year-old musician also compared himself to Only Fools and Horses' characters Del Boy and Rodney while in the birthing suite before the sudden arrival of his first child.

'We're overwhelmed with love!' Jubilant Danny Jones opened up about the birth of son Cooper Alf as he admitted he felt like 'Del Boy' while rushing wife Georgia to the hospital

Chatting to the publication, Georgia said she was having a bath when she suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to push.

'I thought this baby is going to be born at home in the bath... or in the car' she added.

The couple made the urgent dash to the hospital, during which Georgia kept her hands between her legs in a desperate attempt to delay the impending birth.

Danny continued: 'I would love to see that CCTV of us arriving at one o'clock in the morning. I was frantic.'

Crucial moments: The couple made the urgent dash to the hospital, during which Georgia kept her hands between her legs (Pictured in April 2015)

In the frantic rush to get Georgia to a birthing suite, the Obviously hitmaker compared himself to comical characters Del Boy and Rodney after 'grabbing the first wheelchair I could find' - only to discover 'it had a dodgy wheel so I ended up going round and round in circles'.

Cooper was born just 36 minutes after the couple arrived at hospital at 1.36am in the morning.

'All our plans for having lavender burning to keep us calm and our favourite music playing went out of the window!' Georgia said.

'I keep telling her how proud I am of her, my respect for her went through the roof. Our little man's a ledge and we are overwhelmed with love,' Danny added.

The pop star first announced the arrival of his baby son in late January with his 550,000 Instagram followers.

Danny was every inch the proud dad when he shared a picture of the newborn's foot, which gave fans their first glimpse at his little boy.

Danny and Georgia, who have been happily married since 2014, announced the news they are expecting their first child together back in June.

In their initial announcement, a delighted Danny told the glossy magazine at the time: 'I think we're having a boy. I'm going to be a mess at the birth, when I find out if we have a son or a daughter, when I meet him or her.'

The smitten couple kept the gender of their baby a 'big surprise' but he previously divulged he had a feeling in his gut they are going to have a boy.

Sweet moment: The pop star first announced the arrival of his baby son in late January with his 550,000 Instagram followers

They began 'casually trying' for a baby late 2016 as the married lovers decided it was time to start a family.

Danny added: 'At first we were shocked when it happened as we'd been casually trying but so many people have such a hard graft starting a family that we didn't expect it to happen so quickly.'

It was a happy surprise for the pair when Georgia fell pregnant after just five months of trying when they were on holiday in Palm Springs in April.

The rocker is following suit after his McFly band mates Harry Judd and Tom Fletcher who are already dads. Tom and his wife Giovanna raise their two sons Buzz, three, and one-year-old Buddy together.

The latest issue of Hello! is out now.They are the rival reality shows fiercely battling each other in the ratings.

And for the first time this year, Married At First Sight edged out My Kitchen Rules for top television honours on Sunday night.

The Nine Network romance experiment had a metro audience of 1.163m, while the Channel Seven show averaged 1.162m metro viewers, according to Mumbrella.

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Winner: For the first time this year, Married At First Sight edged out My Kitchen Rules for top television honours on Sunday night

While MAFS scored big with metro audiences, My Kitchen Rules ended up coming first nationally with 1.717m overall viewers.

According to the media website, the MAFS win comes on the first night of the official OzTam ratings period.

The biggest audience for MAFS came from the key demographic of 25 to 54-year-olds, which had 605,000 tune in.

Still got it: While MAFS scored big with metro audiences, My Kitchen Rules ended up coming first nationally with 1.717m overall viewers

The dating show also topped two other key advertising groups: 16-39 and 18-49.

Channel 10 reality show Im A Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here! attracted a disappointing 651,000 metro viewers on the night.

The elimination episode, which saw 1980s pop star Tiffany voted out, followed the shock departure of high-profile stars Anthony Mundine and Bernard Tomic.

Successful: According to the media website, the MAFS win comes on the first night of the official OzTam ratings period

Disappointing: The elimination episode, which saw 1980s pop star Tiffany voted out, followed the shock departure of high-profile stars Anthony Mundine and Bernard Tomic

Despite Channel Nines ratings win with Married At First Sight, Channel Seven still managed to win the night with its main channel share at 28.7 percent.

The Nine Network's share came in at 23.7 percent, with later program Underbelly: Chopper no match for the second night of the Winter Olympics on Channel Seven.

ABC finished with an 11.5 percent, while Channel Tens share fell below 10 percent to 8.3 percent.This time last year they were completely smitten after finding love on The Bachelorette.

And nothing much has changed between Georgia Love and Lee Elliott, in fact their relationship has gone from strength-to-strength.

The couple put on a very loved-up display as they attended the St Kilda festival in Melbourne over the weekend.

Will Georgia Love marry Lee Elliot this year? Couple look happier than ever as the kiss and cuddle up at St Kilda festival after her sister Katie's hens party

Smitten: Unable to keep their hands off each other, the pair kissed and cuddled for the cameras

Unable to keep their hands off each other, the pair kissed and cuddled for the cameras.

Attending a private party on a rooftop beachside, Georgia looked summery and radiant in a low-cut floaty dress.

She teamed the flirty frock with a pair of tan platform sandals and chic sunglasses.

Radiant: Attending a private party on a rooftop beach side, Georgia looked radiant in a low-cut floaty dress

Handsome: Meanwhile, Lee looked dapper in a beige open-neck shirt teamed with tight white trousers and a baby pink sneakers

Meanwhile, Lee looked dapper in a beige open-neck shirt teamed with tight white trousers and a baby pink sneakers.

On Saturday, Georgia took to Instagram to document her sister Katie's hens party.

Reveling with a number of gal pals, the Ten news reporter beamed as she sang in a stretch Hummer limousine while sipping on champagne.

Will she be next? Meanwhile on Saturday, Georgia took to Instagram to document her sister Katie's hens party

Georgia uploaded a string of happy snaps and clips showing her sister and pals enjoying their high-spirited night out - complete with a number of risque jokes.

Showing off her playful side, she used a dog filter in a snap that showed her with a maid of honour sash as she posed next to her cat, Pawdrey Hepburn.

Meanwhile, in one short clip, Katie was dressed in white complete with a pink Bride-to-Be sash and veil with Georgia captioning the video, 'The hen is here!!!'

Bride-to-be! Georgia and a number of gal pals were in high spirits as they celebrated her older sister Katie's hen's night (pictured)

A second saw a seated Katie looking very chuffed, with the caption underneath, 'The jelly shots begin!!'

In another clip, Katie posed next to a pink limousine while another sees her singing the Daryl Hall and Oates song, 'You Make My Dreams.'

The sisters seemingly share a close bond as this isn't the first time reality star Georgia has shared updates about her older sibling.

'Best place to propose ... Just sayin.' Georgia recently returned from a trip to the Middle East tourist mecca of Dubai with her hunky boyfriend

In December, Georgia uploaded a photograph containing three wine glasses.

'Cheers to my sister @klove.85 getting engaged!' she wrote in the caption, adding love heart and engagement ring emojis.

Georgia recently returned from a trip to the Middle East tourist mecca of Dubai with her hunky boyfriend.

Raising eyebrows, the pair shared a number of snaps that appeared to hint that an engagement was on the cards, further fueling speculation they could be next to walk down the aisle.

Proposal on the cards? Raising eyebrows, the pair shared a number of snaps that appeared to hint that an engagement was on the cards, further fueling speculation they could be next to walk down the aisle

Last month, the couple shared a photo of themselves in the desert at sunset after a camel ride, prompting one fan to comment: 'best place to propose ... Just sayin.'

After meeting on the Bachelorette, Georgia and Lee's relationship has gone from strength to strength.

Speaking to NW magazine, the hunky tradie said last year: 'I've already started saving for the ring,'

He added: 'The worst thing is we have so many weddings this year, and all the brides have ridiculous rocks as well, so I'm like "Oh my gosh!"'She is expecting her first child later this year.

And Kirsten Dunst showed off her growing baby bump in a white mini dress while on a lunch date in Los Feliz, California, on Sunday.

The 35-year-old actress was spotted holding her belly as she left the Italian eatery, Little Dom's, with a pal.

Bumping along nicely: Kirsten Dunst showed off her growing baby bump in a white mini dress while on a lunch date in Los Feliz, California, on Sunday

Kirsten's white dress featured embroidered designs at the chest and puffy cinched short sleeves.

The original Spider-Man actress dressed for comfort as she finished off her ensemble with sensible blue flats.

Kirsten accessorized her day-time look with a red beaded necklace and a ivory leather handbag that she hung off her shoulder.

The expectant mother wore her iconic blonde locks naturally down while covering her face behind black designer sunglasses.

Effortless: The original Spider-Man actress dressed for comfort as she finished off her ensemble with sensible blue flats

Kirsten is currently engaged to actor Jesse Plemons, 29.

The two met on the set of their FX series Fargo during season two in 2015 playing married high school sweethearts Peggy and local butcher Ed.

Their friendship gradually evolved into romance and their engagement was confirmed in January 2017.

It had been reported for over a month that the couple were expecting a baby, but it wasn't until 2018 that they went public with the happy news.

A friend to lean on: The 35-year-old actress was spotted holding her belly as she left the Italian eatery, Little Dom's, with a pal

Back in July the Beguiled star hinted at what was to come when she told Marie Claire UK's July issue: 'It's time to have babies and chill.'

She explained: 'I wasn't one of those 'I need a baby!' people until my goddaughter was born. I love her so much.'

'That love is just like you can't experience that unless you have a kid. I put her to bed last night and she woke up this morning and said to her mom, 'Where's Kiki?' I just love that love. That's what I want.'

Happy couple: Kirsten and 29-year-old Jesse met on the set of their FX series Fargo during season two in 2015 playing married high school sweethearts Peggy and local butcher EdIt's been roughly five years since the last 30 Rock episode aired on TV.

Creator and writer of the hit-NBC sitcom, Tina Fey, caught up with her famous cast at the 70th Annual Writers Guild Awards in NYC at the Edison Ballroom.

Tracy Morgan and Rachel Dratch presented Fey and her co-producer Robert Carlock with the Herb Sargent Award for Comedy Excellence on Sunday night.

Reunited! 30 Rock creator, Tina Fey, caught up with Tracy Morgan and Rachel Dratch at the 70th Annual Writers Guild Awards in NYC on Sunday night

Half a decade! It's been roughly five years since the last 30 Rock episode aired on TV

Honorees! Tracy Morgan and Rachel Dratch presented Fey and her co-producer Robert Carlock with the Herb Sargent Award for Comedy Excellence

As a producing duo, Tina Fey and Robert Carlock are being honored with the most prestigious award of the eveningthe Herb Sargent Award for Comedy Excellence.

Fey and Carlock have been working together since the days of 30 Rock.

The two are now the co-creators of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and the executive producers of NBC's Great News.

Work husband and wife! Fey and Carlock have been working together since the days of 30 Rock. The two are the co-creators of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and the executive producers of NBC's Great News

'We are honored to accept the Herb Sargent Award for Comedy Excellence,' Fey and Carlock told Variety. 'This is particularly meaningful for us as Herb created 'Weekend Update,' which is where we first worked together in the late 1990's. Like Herb, Tina grew up in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. And, like Robert, Herb was a Caucasian male, which used to be cool'

'We are honored to accept the Herb Sargent Award for Comedy Excellence,' Fey and Carlock told Variety. 'This is particularly meaningful for us as Herb created 'Weekend Update,' which is where we first worked together in the late 1990's. Like Herb, Tina grew up in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. And, like Robert, Herb was a Caucasian male, which used to be cool.'

Both Tracy Morgan and Rachel Dratch were asked to present them with the award.

Between the two comedic writers, they have been nominated for 28 Writer's Guild Awards over the years.

Big leagues! Between the two comedic writers, they have been nominated for 28 Writer's Guild Awards over the years

New venture! One of Tina's nominated screenplays titled Mean Girls has been recently adapted into a Broadway musical

One of Tina's nominated screenplays titled Mean Girls has been recently adapted into a Broadway musical.

It was originally made into a movie in 2004 starring Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried, and the Bossypants author herself.

The Mean Girls cast will take the stage in March.

Back in the day! It was originally made into a movie in 2004 starring Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried, and the Bossypants author herselfThe highly-anticipated new instalment of Channel Nine's Underbelly franchise hit screens on Sunday.

And Underbelly Files: Chopper has certainly sparked a conversation across social media  just not in the way the producers intended.

Much of the hype surrounding the miniseries - which is based on the life of late Melbourne gangster Mark 'Chopper' Read - was inspired by fans' memories of the critically-acclaimed 2000 film Chopper, starring Eric Bana.

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'The producers should've smashed the tape': Underbelly Files: Chopper has certainly sparked a conversation across social media  just not in the way the producers intended

Following the premiere, unsatisfied fans took to Twitter to slam the first episode, with many claiming that it just doesn't compare to the film.

'This Chopper Underbelly is all over the place like cockroaches in a kitchen,' one viewer tweeted.

Another said: 'The producers should've smashed the tape before it went to air and dropped it off at the closest hospital.'

'Talk about flogging a dead horse': The highly-anticipated new instalment of Channel Nine's Underbelly franchise hit screens on Sunday, but not all fans were impressed

'Watched two minutes of Chopper. It was woeful beyond comprehension,' read another comment.

Lead actor Aaron Jeffery drew criticism for his portrayal of Chopper.

'Chopper is not the same without Erica Bana, Sorry Channel 9!' tweeted a viewer.

Get him to the chopper! Fans were quick to slam Aaron Jeffery for his role as Chopper, sharing: 'There's no talent here. Here there's no talent, alright? Talent, no, Robbo?'

A similar tweet read: 'Sub in Erica Bana or leave me right out.'

However, other fans supported Aaron Jeffery's new take on the role, with one writing: 'Loving you as #Chopper! Tough gig after Eric Bana but you're holding your own.'

Underbelly Files: Chopper continues Monday at 9pm on Channel Nine

'Chopper is the worst thing I have seen in a long time': Fans criticised the show on Twitter, with some negatively comparing Aaron's portrayal of the crime lord to Eric Bana's in 2000Scott Disick has revealed that he kept his relationship with Sofia Richie a secret out of 'respect' to his former partner Kourtney Kardashian.

Reality TV star Scott, 34, began dating the 19-year-old daughter of music legend Lionel Richie last year, but there had been whispers about their relationship for quite some time before they confirmed that they were in a romantic relationship.

During Sunday night's episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians, filmed in the early stages of his relationship with Sofia, Scott was seen being pressed about his romance with the young model by his ex's mother Kris Jenner, 62.

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Under wraps: Scott Disick, right, has revealed that he kept his romance with Sofia Richie, left, under wraps out of respect for his ex Kourtney Kardashian. Pictured in December

The ex factor: Scott was in a long-term relationship with Kourtney Kardashian and the exes share three children: Mason, eight, Penelope, five, and Reign, three

In response, Scott - father of Mason, eight, Penelope, five, and Reign, three - admitted that he wanted to keep the then-blossoming romance quiet for the sake of protecting the feelings of the mother of his three children.

Expressing discomfort at discussing his personal life with Kris, he said: 'Kris really is like my mom to me, so I don't ever feel like she's putting me on the spot.

'But I don't really feel comfortable talking to her about my personal or dating life. For me, to see that Kris is invested in my life means the world to me. Because she's got so many other kids and so many other things going on.

No judgment: Kim Kardashian gave her approval to Scott's relationship with Sofia during Sunday's episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians

Hot seat: Kris Jenner grilled Scott about his love life, asking if he was 'going steady' with Sofia

Relationship: Their conversation was filmed during the early stages of his new relationship

'So the fact that she actually worries, loves and cares about me is probably one of the best feelings I have.

'Truthfully, as much as I'd like to be honest with her and tell her how I'm how I'm really feeling, I also do want to respect Kourtney and her feelings.

'Maybe down the line. But right now, my biggest thing is just being respectful of everybody.'

Elsewhere in the show, Kris spoke to her daughter Kim Kardashian about Scott, but the 37-year-old star said she didn't 'care' who Scott dated as long as he was moving on from Kourtney, 38 - who is now dating Younes Bendjima, 24 - and was 'happy'.

Age difference: Scott pointed out that Kris was younger than Sofia , 19,when she first started dating the late Robert Kardashian

Not comfortable: The father-of-three admitted that he wasn't comfortable talking to Kris about his dating life

Mother figure: Kris affectionately informed Scott that she was always going to be his 'mom'

Mother-of-three Kim told her mother: 'Whatever makes him happy - I don't judge, I don't care. I think it's a good thing. I just hope that he's making good choices and having fun and that nothing is getting crazy.

'Scott has been so good in New York. I mean, it's not like we can keep tabs on him forever. He's got to live his life. Kourtney's moved on, Scott's eventually going to move on. If it ends up turning into something, great.'

During her chat with Scott, Kris brought up the age gap between the 34-year-old and 19-year-old Sofia, who is currently enjoying a career as a rising model.

Scott pointed out that Kris at age 17 was younger than Sofia when she started dating the late Robert Kardashian when he was 29.

Going public: The couple have since gone public with their romance, which has raised eyebrows because of their sizeable age difference

Moving on: Meanwhile, 38-year-old Kourtney has embarked on a romance with Younes Bendjima, who is also considerably younger at 24. Pictured in September

'You were underage and she's not. You guys were in the wrong. Not me,' he quipped.

Asked whether he would ever bring Sofia over to say hello, Scott frowned: 'No. That's bizarre.'

Kris told Scott: 'I just feel like I'm always going to be your mom, so you might as well just surrender.'

He joked: 'I did a long time ago, when I used to have to take the trash out. I surrendered then.'

Fashion week: During Sunday night's episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Kim worried that she and Kris would end up babysitting Scott at New York Fashion Week

Before and after: The brunette transformed into a blonde on the show after a 12-hour hair dying session for NYFW

Kris's bonding moment with Scott came after the pair flew to New York City with Kim for Fashion Week.

While Kim expressed concern that they would be forced to babysit Kourtney's ex, Kris admitted she felt 'stressed' wondering what newly sober Scott was doing in New York.

Sitting down to lunch, Kris told him: 'I'm just going to surrender to the fact that nothing good really happens after 10 o'clock at night. I think people should just stay in.'

Scott said: 'That depends what you're doing. I've been going out every night. It's nice to stay busy when I'm here.'

Candid conversation: Kris and Scott spoke candidly about the father-of-three's sobriety status

Top honor: Kendall Jenner accepted a modeling award with her family supporting her

Fashion show: The model was seen strutting her stuff as she walked the Alexander Wang show

As Kris appeared worried, Scott reassured her that he was staying sober and getting up early in the morning hangover free.

He said: 'I almost have a new-found respect for myself and for New York. It's amazing.'

Scott accompanied Kris and Kim as they attended an awards ceremony honoring Kendall Jenner.

Kendall kept it simple and sincere during her acceptance speech and later walked the outdoors Alexander Wang show.

Front row: Kris and Kim supported Kendall as they took pride of place at the hot-ticket show

Toy purge: Also, Khloe Kardashian and Kim helped Kourtney sort through her children's toys

While Scott was in New York with Kim and Kris, Kourtney was battling a tarantula invasion at her house in Calabasas, California.

After spotting two huge spiders with Kim and Khloe, she laid eyes on another during a sunbathing session with pal Larsa Pippen.

As the girls leapt up and screamed, Kourtney said: 'I called pest control. They came and they sprayed two times.

Worst nightmare: A frightened Kim was seen after spotting tarantulas at Kourtney's house

Big spider: During the show, cameras zoomed in on the creepy crawlie as Kim sprinted away

'I don't know what to do. I swear we're outside 50 per cent of the time and I've already had the exterminator out to spray. I won't be able to sleep at night and I won't feel comfortable until these tarantulas are fully gone.'

Kourtney called pest control once again and was informed that it was mating season for tarantulas, but she and Larsa spotted a second spider while she was on the phone.

A terrified Larsa declared: 'I'm leaving. I'm going back to Beverly Hills. This wild, wild west is not for me. I'm out of here.'

Pest control: Kourtney got on the phone with pest control after seeing another tarantula while sunbathing with friend Larsa Pippen

Wild west: Larsa also expressed that she was not comfortable hanging out with tarantulas

Getting out of there: Following Kim's lead, Kourtney and Larsa were seen fleeing the tarantulas

Kourtney, unhappy with the presence of the tarantulas, took her children to Khloe's house and informed her sister that they were moving into the guest house for three weeks while exterminators sorted out the spider problem.

'Three weeks?' a shocked and pregnant Khloe asked. 'And all you guys  all four of you  are going to stay in the guest house?'

She told the cameras: 'Kourtney really is delusional. I live less than a block away, so if there are tarantulas in your property, they're probably at mine too.'

Moving in: The mother-of-three took her children over to Khloe's place during the episode

Stay: A visibly surprised Khloe was unaware that Kourtney and her kids planned to stay over

As Kourtney's children were running riot around her house, she sighed: 'I only have a few months left of peace and quiet. This is not what I need right now.'

Khloe attempted to scare Kourtney into leaving by dressing a dog in a spider costume while she told a spooky tale around the fire pit about a 'human eating spider'.

Her plan failed, however, when the costume was not remotely scary.

Spider story: The pregnant reality star gathered Kourtney and her kids around to tell a scary story about a human-eating spider

Nice try: Playful Khloe tried out a prank with her dog, but it didn't exactly work out as planned

'Who is this dog and why is it dressed up in a fur coat?' Kourtney asked before taking the hint and telling Khloe: 'Thank you for your amazing hospitality, but I'm going to go home and tough it out with the big tarantulas.'

While Kourtney was waging war against tarantulas, Kim threatened to do the same against anyone leaking information about her surrogate.

As news broke of her surrogate's pregnancy, Kim said: 'I'm absolutely fuming that there are all of these articles coming out about our surrogate. People started to write me and ask me if it was true and I just said we didn't really want to talk about it right now.

Information: On the show, Kim was dealing with information about her surrogate being leaked

Crisis mode: The 37-year-old reality star talked to husband Kanye West about the situation

'I signed up for this life and I know how to handle it, but someone like her does not and I would never want to put her in that situation. All I can do is hope that all of these rumours just die down.'

Speaking on the phone to husband Kanye West she said: 'I'm so upset. It has the nationality of the surrogate, how old she is, where she's from, that she has two kids they know every last detail about her.'

Asking her attorney to threaten legal action, she said: 'They have information about the surrogate that I don't know. That's what weirds me out.'

Keeping Up With The Kardashians will return next week on the E! network.

Personal details: The reality star was upset about details published about her surrogateThree of four Democrats vying for the party's nomination to challenge U.S. Rep. John Katko for Congress will join The Citizen's Robert Harding for Facebook Live interviews this week.

Scott Comegys, an alpaca farmer from Palmyra seeking the Democratic nomination in the 24th Congressional District race, will participate Tuesday, Feb. 13. Comegys will answer questions beginning at 6:30 p.m.

At 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, Democratic frontrunner Dana Balter will answer questions. Balter is a Syracuse University professor.

Another Democratic candidate, Bill Bass, will participate in a live interview beginning at noon Thursday, Feb. 15. Bass is an environmental scientist who recently relocated to central New York.

As of last week, four Democratic hopefuls have emerged in the race. Balter secured the endorsement of the Cayuga, Oswego and Wayne county Democratic committees at a joint meeting Wednesday in Auburn. Balter was joined at that meeting by candidate Anne Messenger. The committees decided Bass and Comegys lacked sufficient campaign infrastructure to be participants at their event.

All of the interviews this week will be streamed at facebook.com/auburncitizen. The video will be archived on The Citizen's Facebook page and posted on auburnpub.com.Cynthia Bailey was forced to defend her relationship with boyfriend Will Jones on Sunday's episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta.

Porsha Williams took Cynthia, 50, to one side at Kandi Burruss's Essence magazine reveal party and warned her that she was unsure of Will's intentions.

While an emotional Cynthia wiped tears from her eyes, Porsha said: 'I heard he's going to take the opportunity  as an opportunist  and be with you, and that he is dating someone else.'

Playing defense: Cynthia Bailey defended her boyfriend Will Jones during Sunday's episode of The Real Housewives Of Atlanta

Cynthia told the camera: 'From the moment that I started dating Will, quite a few of the ladies have had their opinions and I've always defended him. Now, how do I defend that?'

Will, however, took offense at the allegations when Cynthia confronted him during the car ride home.

He said sarcastically: 'What opportunity am I going to get from being around you? Do I get a Ferrari? Are you going to get me a Lamborghini? Are you going to buy me a house? I've got a house. I've got a theater room.

'I don't have time for all of this. I've told you everything. I'm learning how to be with you and this is what I get.'

Tense ride: Will defended himself after being accused of being an 'opportunist'

Rumors flying: Cynthia was in a tough spot as several friends told her that Will has a girlfriend

Cynthia during the episode titled Peaches Be Trippin' faced a barrage of questions about her relationship with Will.

Sitting down for lunch with NeNe Leakes, she explained: 'I'm just getting back out there and with Will I was like ''he's cute'' and I got excited.'

NeNe advised: 'It's OK to get excited, just don't be stupid. Don't let somebody use you.'

Sage advice: NeNe Leakes during lunch advised Cynthia not to be stupid

Asked whether she thought Will was using her, NeNe backtracked: 'I don't think he's using you. I just want you to be aware.'

Cynthia later admitted: 'I like Will, but Will and I need a minute'.

She then met ex-husband Peter Thomas for sushi.

Sushi time: Cynthia later met up with her ex-husband Peter Thomas

Explaining to Peter that she felt upset that he had avoided her and Will at Kandi's event, she said: 'I just feel weird. I don't even know what I wanted to do. I don't know if I wanted to introduce you. I don't know if you would have been open to that.'

Peter quickly set his ex straight and insisted: 'You're not going to do that. I'm not open to that. I was with you for 10 years. I've never seen you with another man, so I didn't want to come over and say hello to you.'

Addressing the camera, Peter admitted: 'I definitely still have feelings for Miss Bailey. It's a different type of feeling though. I still get nervous around her, which is not good, but I'm working on that.'

Party etiquette: Peter said he would not want to be introduced to Cynthia's new boyfriend

Feelings still: The bar owner admitted that he still has feelings for Cynthia

Cynthia told Peter she was adamant that they should be able to get along with one another's new partners.

She explained: 'We have to have some divorce rules. If I see you anywhere and you're with someone, I'm going to say hi.'

Peter, however, made it clear he was not on board with that idea.

Divorce rules: Peter did not agree with Cynthia's proposed divorce rules

Getting along: Cynthia said that she would greet Peter if he was with another woman

'No don't. You'd better not. Don't ever,' he said. 'You know why I moved? Because I didn't want to run into you with nobody. Remember you got off that train before I did.'

While Cynthia was struggling with relationship troubles, Kenya Moore visited a doctor's office to find out if she and husband Marc Daly had managed to conceive.

Kenya explained that she had previously been warned about diminished function in her ovaries, but had a glimmer of hope when her period was six weeks late.

Pregnancy check: Kenya Moore went to see if she was pregnant

She said: 'My husband always says that it was a miracle that we met and he strongly believed that it would be a miracle if I got pregnant, too.

'Mark is looking so forward to having a baby and I just don't want to let him down more than anything.'

Kenya appeared disappointed when her doctor told her that a urine test had proved inconclusive and she would need to wait for blood test results.

Baby talk: The newlywed said her her husband Mark was looking forward to having a baby

She sighed: 'My life has been a rollercoaster and not knowing if I'm pregnant is just adding to that. For me, I don't know, time is just not on my side.'

Porsha meanwhile was trying to build bridges with the cast members she has previously upset.

During a lunch date with Kandi's mother Joyce, Porsha admitted she had been foolish to listen to Phaedra Parks' allegations about Kandi trying to drug her.

Candid conversation: Mama Joyce met with Porsha Williams and talked about nasty rumors that were spread about her daughter Kandi Burruss

Porsha explained: 'It was a matter of my friend, who is also an attorney, has just told me something that she said Kandi told her.

'That's the most evil thing to me, to think that you would send me in there to say something like that and it's absolutely false.'

'You're a ride or die damn chick. I'm serious,' Mama Joyce told Porsha.

Big hug: Porsha and Mama Joyce hugged it out after their talk

Porsha said: 'For her to see my side, it means a lot to me. I really wanted to believe my friend and I was willing to take the bear of everything that was happening no matter what.'

In a bid to make further amends, Porsha hosted a vegan 'no beef' dinner  but Kenya, Kandi and NeNe all declined the invitation.

Porsha lamented: 'The people I have the most beef with aren't coming. They don't like me. I don't know why. I like them. I like everybody.'

No beef: The ladies gathered at Porsha's place for a vegan 'no beef' dinner except for Kenya, Kandi and NeNe

Likes everybody: Porsha was bummed that Kenya, Kandi and NeNe who she has the most beef with didn't come to her party

Nice pipe: The party included a hookah pipe

The tension could have been cut with a knife when Cynthia walked in while Porsha and her friend were deep in discussion about her relationship with Will.

Defending her boyfriend, Cynthia said: 'The only thing I was concerned about with Will was does he have a girlfriend right now? The answer was no and that's it.'

Quizzing Cynthia about her lunch date with Peter, Kim Zolciak commented: 'I wouldn't call my ex-husband for a million mother****ing dollars to meet for lunch.'

That's it: Cynthia said her boyfriend doesn't have another girlfriend

Lunch talk: Kim Zolciak said she would never have lunch with her ex-husband

'I love Peter. Just because you love somebody' Cynthia began, before being cut off by Kim.

'I think you're in love with Peter but you know him for who he is,' Kim said.

Instead of being saved by the bell, Cynthia was saved by the belch, as pal Marlo let out a huge burp to get the ladies' attention.

Excuse her: Marlo got everyone's attention by burping

Cynthia laughed: 'I normally don't like people burping in my face, but Marlo couldn't have burped at a better time.'

She quickly changed the subject and invited the women on a girls' trip to Barcelona  but Kim and Kenya decided not to go so they could stay at home with their other halves.

Cameras rolled as the women headed for the airport and NeNe commented on Kim's absence to Cynthia: 'I think it's the strangest thing that she cannot leave and travel without Kroy.'

Road trip: NeNe and Cynthia were hosting a trip to Barcelona together

She told the camera: 'Who knows what she'll be doing while she's at home? Maybe she's getting Kroy a new set of booty implants.'

Kim, speaking to Porsha and Sheree Whitfield on the phone, explained: 'NeNe was super vocal about Kroy not going. It's a 10-hour flight and not having my husband, it does make me nervous.'

The Real Housewives Of Atlanta continues next week on Bravo.It's the question Home and Away fans are dying to know  will Alf Stewart survive his fall into a sink hole?

But it seems fans will be left with more questions than answers when the popular character's fate is finally revealed on the show this week, according to TV Week.

This week, the magazine has reported that the life of Ray Meagher's character continues to hang in the balance after he was rushed to hospital from a heat-attack suffered by falling into a sink hole.

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Does Alf die? TV Week hints that the end is near for the Home and Away fan-favourite, with the publication claiming he may suffer a second heart attack after hearing shocking news

According to the publication, the news of a returning character may cause Alf to suffer a second heart attack, this time possibly proving fatal.

Alf spent his time in the sink hole with his daughter, Roo, played by Georgie Parker.

While his chances of survival seemed slim after the freak accident, Alf decided to reveal a secret he had been keeping from his daughter for thirty years: her mother was still alive.

According to the publication the revelations will threaten to tear not only Alf's family apart, but also the Bay.

'Roo questions why her father kept it a secret for so long,' Georgie told the magazine. 'Or why he's telling her now'.

Now doctors are worried that the stressed caused by revealing the secret could spark another heart attack.

Is time up for Alf? According to TV Week, fans will be left with more questions than answers when the popular character's fate is finally revealed on the show this week

Alf suffered a heart attack in 2016 and has previously faced a string of personal crises - from his wife dying, to natural disasters and even stints in jail.

Ray Meagher, who has played Alf for three decades, was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his work in the performing arts last year.

'Obviously there's a lot of me in Alf,' he told The Daily Telegraph in 2017.

Secrets revealed: Alf spent his time in the hole with his daughter, Roo, played by Georgie Parker (seen)

'There's a lot of most people in the characters they play, but some actors put their fists to their foreheads and say, 'I'm an actor darling, I can play anything!'' he added.

The Gold Logie winner, who grew up on a Queensland cattle and sheep station, expressed surprise at his longevity as an actor.

'You think you're never going to get the first (job) and then when that finishes, you're pretty sure you're never going to work again,' he reflected.

Confused: During his time in the hole Alf, fearful that he was close to death, revealed a secret he had been keeping from his daughter for thirty years: Her mother was still aliveShe's just flown back to Australia after a quick trip overseas, where she recorded an interview for The Project in Las Vegas.

And it seems like former Today co-host Lisa Wilkinson managed to squeeze in some downtime during her visit to the US.

The 58-year-old was spotted enjoying a dip in Hawaii with her family, flaunting her slender figure in a plunging black swimsuit.

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She's still got it! Lisa Wilkinson, 58, was spotted enjoying a dip in Hawaii with her family, flaunting her slender figure in a plunging black swimsuit

Showing off a soft golden glow, Lisa looked relaxed as she soaked up the sun on holiday in Waikiki.

Lisa accessorised her swimsuit with layered gold chains and a matching bracelet.

She appeared to be wearing minimal makeup, and slicked back her brunette locks as she strolled out of the surf.

Bling: Lisa accessorised her swimsuit with layered gold chains and a matching bracelet

Beach babe! She appeared to be wearing minimal makeup, and slicked back her brunette locks as she strolled out of the surf

Mixing work and pleasure! Lisa recorded an interview for The Project while in Las Vegas

Lisa was joined at the beach by her lookalike daughter Billi, 20, and her husband Peter FitzSimons, 56.

The family enjoyed a swim in the ocean, before heading back to relax by the hotel pool.

Lisa was later seen taking a photo of herself, Peter and Billi as they sat on deck chairs together.

Family trip: Lisa was joined at the beach by her lookalike daughter Billi (pictured) and her husband Peter FitzSimons

Kicking back! The family enjoyed a swim in the ocean, before heading back to relax by the pool

Lisa - who walked away from Today last October after producers were unwilling to pay her the same salary as Karl Stefanovic - now co-hosts Network Ten's The Project.

Lisa recently spoke to Stellar magazine about her departure from Channel Nine's breakfast show, revealing that she had been considering leaving for a while.

'It was something I'd been thinking about for a couple of months, and very seriously,' said the former magazine editor.

'The timing was just right. Publicly, it may have seemed like it happened very quickly, but it was something I was seriously contemplating. Then everything just fell into place.'She has become one of the most controversial cast-members on Married At First Sight this year.

And busty bikini model Davina Rankin, 26, is sure to raise eyebrows among fans yet again thanks to her surprising link to fellow headline-maker Travers 'Candyman' Beynon.

Daily Mail Australia can exclusively reveal that Davina's sister-in-law Jacqueline Tori Armstrong is the owner of a renowned Queensland-based stripper agency that services Travers' infamous house-parties.

Surprise! Busty bikini model Davina Rankin, 26, is sure to raise eyebrows among fans yet again thanks to her surprising link to fellow headline-maker Travers 'Candyman' Beynon

'Tori is working hard to bring quality assurance to the stripping industry': According to her website, Red Hot Strippers, Jacqueline (who goes by the stage name of Tori) has worked as a dancer for ten years in the exotic dancing industry

According to her website, Red Hot Strippers, Jacqueline (who goes by the stage name of Tori) has worked as a dancer for ten years in the exotic dancing industry.

'Tori is working hard to bring quality assurance to the stripping industry,' the site reads.

It later continues: 'Tori and her staff are often booked out very quickly so we can't always service every client who requests us individually. We think all our guys and girls are great so in the meantime we hope you are happy with the team overall.'

Millionaire playboy Travers is the heir to the FreeChoice tobacconist retail empire, and has become known for throwing debaucherous parties at his waterfront man (Jacqueline pictured second right)

Dedication: Jacqueline has been pictured posing alongside Travers and his troupe of scandily-clad female companions on many occasions (pictured third from right)

Millionaire playboy Travers is the heir to the FreeChoice tobacconist retail empire, and has become known for throwing debaucherous parties at his waterfront mansion.

Daily Mail Australia does not suggest that Instagram model Davina has ever worked for her sister's stripping agency.

Meanwhile Davina recently told NW magazine she was going on the show this year because she was sick of guys just trying to get into her pants.

'It actually is f**king hard for me to find someone': Meanwhile Davina recently told NW magazine she was going on the show this year because she was sick of guys just trying to get into her pants

'It actually is f**king hard for me to find someone that wants to date me for me instead of someone wanting to get into my pants,' she said.

'Every day I get d**k pics sent to me and requests from people wanting pictures of my feet... some of them even offer to pay.'

The brunette beauty also told The Fix that her racy social media photos have caused trouble in her past relationships.

'Having your Mrs in the spotlight and putting up photos in bikinis all the time, well, that can kind of suck,' Davina admitted.

Davina said 'I do' to tradie Ryan Gallagher on MAFS this season, but has already sparked controversy thanks to her flirty interactions with Dean Wells.They share a 38-year age gap as mother and daughter.

But Lisa Wilkinson, 58, and Billi FitzSimons, 20, displayed their striking likeness during a family getaway to Hawaii last month.

They were joined for the holiday by Lisa's husband, former rugby union player-turned-journalist Peter FitzSimons.

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The apple doesn't fall far from the tree! Lisa Wilkinson, 58, enjoyed a trip to the beach in Hawaii last month with her lookalike daughter Billi FitzSimons, 20

Veteran TV host Lisa opted for a one-piece swimsuit as she enjoyed the warmth of the Pacific Ocean, flaunting her enviable curves as she emerged from the water.

Obviously inheriting her mother's incredible genes, university student Billi strolled across the sand in a black bikini that showed off her toned midriff and svelte figure.

After going for an ocean swim, Lisa and Billi were seen relaxing on deck chairs alongside Peter.

Holiday vibes: Veteran TV host Lisa opted for a one-piece swimsuit as she enjoyed the warmth of the Pacific Ocean, flaunting her enviable curves as she emerged from the water

Lookalike: Obviously inheriting her mother's incredible genes, university student Billi strolled across the sand in a black bikini that showed off her toned midriff and svelte figure

Billi, Lisa, and Peter were later seen posing for a selfie as they sat under the shade of a sun umbrella.

The family holiday preceded Lisa's anticipated debut as co-host of Network Ten's The Project on January 29.

Last October, Lisa walked away from Channel Nine's Today show after producers were allegedly unwilling to pay her the same salary as Karl Stefanovic.

Say cheese! After going for an ocean swim, Lisa and Billi were seen relaxing on deck chairs alongside the family patriarch, former rugby union player-turned-journalist Peter FitzSimons

Lisa recently spoke to Stellar magazine about her departure from Nine's breakfast show, revealing that she had been considering leaving for a while.

'It was something I'd been thinking about for a couple of months, and very seriously,' said the former magazine editor.

'The timing was just right. Publicly, it may have seemed like it happened very quickly, but it was something I was seriously contemplating. Then everything just fell into place.'Patton Oswalt and his wife Meredith Salenger made a stylish couple as they walked the red carpet at the Writers Guild of America Awards Sunday night in Los Angeles.

The comedian and actor was hosting the show that honors writers in movies, television and video games.

He married actress Meredith last year following the tragic sudden death of first wife Michelle McNamara in 2016.

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Devited: Patton Oswalt and his wife Meredith Salenger made a stylish couple as they walked the red carpet at the Writers Guild of America Awards Sunday night in Los Angeles

Patton, 49, looked dapper in a two-piece suit with a white shirt and a black patterned tie.

His wife chose a red gown with a low-cut neckline that showcased her ample assets.

The sleeves had purple sequins down to the elbow and then a flared purple sequinned bell cuff.

Meredith, 47, accessorized with a purple purse and wore her long brunette locks loose and tucked behind her ears.

Love second time around: The comedian and actor married the actress last year following the tragic sudden death of first wife Michelle McNamara in 2016

Sharp: Patton, 49, looked dapper in a two-piece suit with a white shirt and a black patterned tie

Meredith, 47, chose a red gown with a low-cut neckline that showcased her ample assets. The sleeves had purple sequins down to the elbow and then a flared purple sequinned bell cuff

Patton, who starred on King of Queens and won plaudits for his performance opposite Charlize Theron in 2011's Young Adult, shared a selfie to Twitter ahead of the awards show.

He's seen with Meredith and tweeted: 'Full of scotch and ready to fill writers hearts with hope and rainbows!'

He then took to the stage with a glass of whiskey in hand and kept the star-studded audience laughing during the event.

'Full of scotch': Patton was the host for the WGA Awards and tweeted out a selfie before taking the stage

Entertainer: He then took to the stage with a glass of whiskey in hand and kept the star-studded audience laughing during the eventSome have said she is the most controversial contestant to appear on Married At First Sight.

And bikini model Davina Rankin has gained an empire of anti-fans since appearing on the show - one of the groups her sister-in-law Jacqueline Tori Armstrong hit out at on Monday.

In a lengthy Facebook post Jacqueline wrote: 'I am disgusted and angry at the cruel comments and the way MAFS has edited their show to make people look like they are shallow and self-absorbed.'

'They edited their show to make people look like they are shallow!' Davina Rankin's sister-in-law accuses Married at First Sight execs of cutting the show for 'more exciting viewing'

'You all post about the way she [Davina] looks and how her attitude is on the show. Maybe stop and think that the show has cut it for more exciting viewing,' she added.

Jacqueline, who is the owner of a Queensland-based stripper agency Red Hot Stripper, continued: 'Maybe stop and think before you sit behind your phone, computer screen or iPad that protects you and makes you feel a little better about yourself before you write your insults.'

Sister act! Jacqueline is the owner of a Queensland-based stripper agency

'That person is a human being and has feelings that you can destroy.

'What if it was you? All I can say is that you have a sad existence if you find the need to sit behind your computer and feel good about insulting someone,' she finished.

The post was complete with hashtags: '#shameonyou'and '#bullywarrior'

Clapping back! 'All I can say is that you have a sad existence if you find the need to sit behind your computer and feel good about insulting someone,' Jacqueline wrote

Jacqueline, who goes by the stage name of Tori, has worked as a dancer for over a decade.

While Davina hasn't been known to work for her sister's agency, the 26-year-old has copped a fair amount of backlash for her risque on-screen behaviour.

The brunette has admitted that her racy pictures, which she shares to social media., have impacted her past relationships.She's been keeping a low profile over the past nine months.

But on Sunday, Kathy Griffin was out in full force, attending the 2018 Writers Guild Awards in Beverly Hills, California at the famed Beverly Hilton hotel.

The 57-year-old comedian wore a black gown with straps and black sandal heels, sporting a close cropped red hairdo and accessorizing with diamond earrings and black leather wrist cuffs.

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Beaming: Kathy Griffin, 57, made her first red carpet appearance since last May as she attended the 2018 Writers Guild Awards in Beverly Hills, California at the famed Beverly Hilton hotel

The comic took to social media to post a shot of her outing, writing: 'Presenting at the Writers Guild Awards tonight. Feels great to be back ... my first red carpet event since May!'

The Oak Park, Illinois native's high-profile outing came more than four months since her last one, when she took the stage in Hollywood for the Aid for AIDS fundraiser Best in Drag Show.

The My Life on the D-List personality's career has been on a wild trajectory in the nine months since she made headlines last May posing in an artsy photo shot by Tyler Shields in which she held a severed head resembling that of President Donald Trump.

The controversial image drew a quick reaction from the Oval Office, as the president took to his Twitter to declare that Griffin 'should be ashamed of herself' in the wake of the image, adding, 'My children, especially my 11 year old son, Barron, are having a hard time with this. Sick!'

Radiant: The comic posed on her first red carpet since last May, amid her dust-up with Donald Trump

Sparring partner: The controversial star has made herself an adversary of President Donald Trump

Biding her time: Amid a career slump in the wake of the controversy, Griffin played many shows out of the U.S.

Turnaround: While Griffin initially said she was sorry about the photo, she consequently took the apology back, putting the president's controversies in perspective to her own

The Emmy-winning comic paid dearly for the graphic gaffe, as she lost a number of comedy gigs and was fired from her annual New Year's Eve hosting job on CNN alongside Anderson Cooper.

While she initially apologized for the furor, she walked it back chatting with New York magazines The Cut in August, putting a number of the president's own controversies in perspective to her own.

'Why are people still expecting me to apologize and grovel to a man that tweets like this? Im a comedian; hes our f***ing president,' she said, rattling off a list of Trump's contentious statements and actions while in office.

Comeback: Griffin said that it 'feels great to be back' at a Hollywood function in the wake of her absence

Sleek: Griffin's hair remains short since she shaved her head last summer in solidarity with her cancer-stricken sister Joyce, who passed away in September

Resilient: Griffin looks to be attempting to push forward following the career crisis

'President Trump just pardoned Joe Arpaio, who was essentially running a concentration camp in the Arizona desert,' she said. 'He said there are some good Nazis, and hes kicking out young adults who were brought here as kids by their parents, and Im the one who has to continue to apologize?'

Griffin hasn't only waged war with Trump, however, as she's publicly spoken out against CNN's Anderson Cooper, a former friend she said did not support her amid her career crisis - calling him 'The Spineless Heiress' in an interview with The Daily Beast.

In October, she threw down the gauntlet with a searing YouTube video in which she accused Bravo's Andy Cohen - who she called 'deeply misogynistic' - of offering her cocaine.

Cohen denied the allegations, saying, 'I am completely stunned by this story. It is 100% false and totally made up.'

She also lashed out at TMZ's Harvey Levin, giving out his phone number and claiming the website's founder was 'very much in bed with everyone from Hollywood to Donald Trump.'

Firestarter: Amid her exile, Kathy called out a number of show business luminaries including Bravo's Andy Cohen and TMZ's Harvey Levin

Mirage? It remains to be seen if Griffin's career can rebound to its previous levels, but it seems as if she'll do everything in her power to trySophie Monk didn't exactly pick a winner on The Bachelorette.

But the blonde bombshell certainly had another crack on Monday when she shared a picture of herself casually picking her nose with her 480,000 Instagram followers.

Striking different poses for four pictures, she was also seen leaning forward in her chair and striking her trademark, come-hither look.

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Pick a winner?! Sophie Monk posts picture of her picking her nose as she commences hosting duties for dating series, Love Island Australia

However, Sophie broke the spell cast by her sultry slideshow by thrusting her pointer finger up into the cavity of her nose.

Sophie had no problem unceremoniously killing the mood, as she wrote alongside her photo: 'Back to work for Love Island Australia. The last shot is my favourite'.

She accompanied the caption with a grinning winking-face, tongue-out emoji.

Digging for gold! Sophie had no problem unceremoniously killing the mood, as she wrote alongside her photo: 'Back to work for Love Island Australia. The last shot is my favourite'.

Despite Sophie's rather questionable habit, she looked effortlessly chic in a black Asilio World top, stove pipe blue jeans and black open-toed booties.

It seems the embattled Bachelorette star can do no wrong, as even her fans praised her nose-picking prowess.

Despite Sophie's rather questionable habit, she looked effortlessly chic in a black Asilio World top, stove pipe blue jeans and black open-toed booties

One user commented, 'Hot as f**k... Even when pickin it!'

While another said, 'Hahaha u have the best sense of humour!!(sic)'

'Hot as f**k... Even when pickin it!' It seems the embattled Bachelorette star can do no wrong, as even her fans praised her nose-picking prowess

In December 2017, Sophie announced she will host Channel 9's Love Island Australia this year.

The Bachelorette star confirmed the news on the Today show and expressed her excitement about the new gig.Their movie The Big Sick was nominated for Best Original Screenplay.

And Emily Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani shared a sweet kiss as they attend the 70th Annual Writers Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The happy couple have gained global recognition for their semi non-fictional script based on the couple's real life love story. However, they lost out on Sunday night to Get Out by Jordan Peele.

Dynamic duo: Emily Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani shared a sweet kiss as they attend the 70th Annual Writers Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

Kumail looked dashing as he sported a monochrome-plaid suit teamed with a white collard shirt and dark gray sweater vest.

The Silicon Valley star finished off his red-carpet ensemble with brown leather oxfords and a floral handkerchief in his chest pocket.

Kumail's counterpart, Emily, looked stunning in a magenta floor-swept gown that highlighted her waist with a gold metal belt.

The Big Sick co-writer oozed elegance as she wore her brown tresses in a bun which showed off her dangling gold earrings.

All smiles: The happy couple have gained global recognition for their semi non-fictional script based on the couple's real life love story

The writers: Kumail looked dashing as he sported a monochrome-plaid suit teamed with a white collard shirt and dark gray sweater vest

Stunner: Kumail's counterpart, Emily, looked stunning in a magenta floor-swept gown that highlighted her waist with a gold metal belt

Kumail and Emily married in 2007, one year after meeting for the first time.

But that intervening 12 months was not only a challenging one; it provided them the inspiration for their now award-winning movie.

Shortly after they started dating, in secret due to the cultural differences between his Pakistani family and her North Carolina one, Gordon came down with a mystery illness that prompted her organs to start shutting down.

She was placed in a medically-induced coma during which time Nanjiani introduced himself to her family and them to his family.

They tied the knot three months after she emerged from the coma.

The look of love: They married in 2007, one year after meeting for the first time

Happy endings: They tied the knot three months after she emerged from the comaAccording to the petition, Raymond did not receive medical treatment for his injuries until January 2017, when he was taken to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse.

"Upon information and belief, Mr. Raymond's medical care providers at Upstate have concluded with a reasonable degree of medical certainty that the permanent injuries he has suffered were a direct result of a blunt force trauma to his groin area," the petition said. "As a result, he must now utilize a catheter, and he fears he will need a catheter for the remainder of his life."

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In August, following a nearly identical complaint from another inmate, DOCCS' Inspector General's Office reopened its investigation into the alleged assault, the petition said, and Mitchell, 54, was suspended without pay.

In response, DOCCS' spokesperson Patrick Bailey confirmed that Mitchell remains suspended as part of an ongoing investigation at Auburn prison; however, Bailey said the suspension was not connected to Raymond's allegations.He's been one of the heroes of the #MeToo movement, risking his career and breaking his silence to illustrate the rampant nature of alleged abuse in Hollywood.

On Sunday, Terry Crews was snapped attending the 2018 Writers Guild Awards with wife Rebecca Crews at the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California.

The 49-year-old actor looked dapper in a black suit with a while collared shirt, with a stylish pair of black shoes with a gold and violet design.

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Out and about: Terry Crews, 49, and his wife Rebecca, 52, were snapped attending the 2018 Writers Guild Awards at the famed Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, California Sunday

Rebecca, 52, looked elegant in a puffy, creme long-sleeved top with a black mermaid dress on the bottom.

The Flint, Michigan native has made headlines over the past six months with the shocking allegation in October that Hollywood agent Adam Venit had grabbed his crotch at an industry party in February 2016.

The 6ft3 Brooklyn Nine-Nine star star has since been embroiled in a legal battle with both Venit and William Morris Endeavor, who he left in November after reporting the incident to authorities.

On Tuesday, the D.A.'s spokesman Ricardo Santiago told Deadline that the Los Angeles County District Attorneys office said it's investigating the incident involving Venit, who's returned to WME after a leave of absence.

Dapper: The talented entertainer and his lovely spouse looked nice in formal wear

Outspoken: Crews broke his silence about the incident with agent Adam Venit in the wake of the spate of accusations that arose against Harvey Weinstein

Police sources told the outlet that a 'thorough' dossier authorities put together was forwarded to the D.A.

Following a probe by the D.A. and a newly-implemented task force investigating sex assaults in show business, the case against the agent could be prosecuted, thrown out or forwarded to Mike Feuer, the LA City Attorney, the publication reported.

The task force, headed by D.A. Jackie Lacey, is also probing complaints against other prominent men accused of sexual misconduct over the past six months, including producer Harvey Weinstein, filmmaker James Toback, and actors Steven Seagal and Danny Masterson, according to the outlet.

Honored: Crews was named as one of TIME's Silence Breakers for the 2017 Person of the Year

Accused: Crews said in court docs that Venit, pictured in LA in 2011, 'viciously grabbed [his] penis and testicles' at a 2016 industry event

In a lawsuit he filed in December, Crews said in court docs that 'Venit, upon his first meeting [him], viciously grabbed [his] penis and testicles so hard that it caused [him] immediate pain in a blatant and unprovoked sexual assault.'

Venit, in his response, said that Crews 'had not suffered any injury or danger' as result of the incident, and that 'none of the acts alleged were based on sex and/or the conduct was not sexual.'

WME said in its' court filing that Crews initially accepted an apology Venit made over the incident and stayed with the firm, until 18 months later when he suddenly decided to go public with his allegation.They spent the weekend on a romantic getaway in Ojai, California.

And Sarah Hyland looked happy as she attended to errands with her Bachelor In Paradise beau, Wells Adams, 33, in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The 27-year-old actress sported a casual ensemble as the couple headed inside their local Gelson's grocery store to pick up a six-pack of beer.

Cute couple! Sarah Hyland looked all smiles as she attended to errands with her Bachelor In Paradise beau, Wells Adams, 33, in Los Angeles on Sunday

Sarah dressed for comfort as she sported jeans, a monochrome striped crop top and a tan overcoat.

The Modern Family actress finished off her look with black leather oxfords, a burgundy handbag, and a pair of gold round-framed reading glasses.

Sarah left her dark curly hair down by her shoulders while flaunting her natural beauty by going virtually make-up free.

Her hunky counterpart followed in his girlfriend's casual footsteps by donning jeans, flip-flops, and a white Britney Spears T-shirt.

What a gentleman:The 27-year-old actress sported a casual ensemble as the couple headed inside their local Gelson's grocery store to pick up a six-pack of beer

Sarah was originally a fan of Adams when he was vying for another womans heart on The Bachelorette.

The two began exchanging witty banter on Twitter in July and later announced their exclusive relationship in October.

Prior to linking up with Hyland, the tall, dark, and handsome reality star was considering a gig as the next Bachelor.

Its just funny how things turn out, he said to PEOPLE. Im really happy I didnt do it.

It seems that his counterpart is happy with his decision as well.



This time last year, Roxy Jacenko was preparing to spend Valentine's Day without husband Oliver Curtis as he was serving a jail term.

But it was a different story on Monday for the PR guru who was seen with helium loveheart-shaped balloons, possibly for Oliver.

Never one to do anything by halves, Roxy happily carried the bundle, which threatened to carry her slight frame off into the summery sky.

Amour: Roxy Jacenko was full of pre-Valentine's Day spirit on Monday when she carried a cluster of love heart balloons for husband Oliver Curtis

Roxy looked full of the spirit of the occasion as she wrangled the pink and purple hearts in the Sydney sun.

The 37-year-old flaunted her svelte frame in a playful sleeveless denim Dior dress that featured floral embroidery on two oversized pockets near its hemline.

She matched the fetching frock with a pair of nude strappy heels that were adorned with pom poms and a pair of Aviator-style sunglasses.

Grounded: Never one to do anything by halves, Roxy happily carried the bundle, which threatened to carry her slight frame off into the summery sky.

Roxy shared a snap of the occasion to Instagram and was seen wearing a broad grin as she posed with the balloons.

'Happy Valentines Day insta fam,' Roxy captioned the photo, which was met with a flurry of well wishes from fans.

'You are so beautiful and very real, a beautiful person,' one follower gushed while another chimed in with: 'same to you and oliver roxy,' (sic) punctuating the sentiment with a love-heart emoji.

Cupid chic: The 37-year-old flaunted her svelte frame in a playful sleeveless denim Dior dress that featured floral embroidery on two oversized pockets near its hemline

Roxy took to Instagram to share a snap of the occasion, posing with a broad grin, as she clasped the ballons, wishing her followers a happy Valentine's Day

Last year, with Oliver serving time in Cooma jail for conspiracy to commit insider trading, Roxy was left to her own devices to celebrate the day of amour.

After spending the morning at the gym, Roxy enjoyed a spot of lunch at Sydney's Bistro Moncur with girlfriends.

The day was rounded out with dinner with her children Pixie, six, and Hunter, three,

Following his release in June last year, Oliver gifted Roxy a stunning Nicholas Hayward diamond 'engagement' ring worth a reported $450,000 - twice the value of her first.He was announced as the replacement for Jack Whitehall on the League Of Their Own panel last week.

But Romesh Ranganathan, 40, looks set to face an awkward reunion with host James Corden, 39, when he joins the show later this year, after slamming the presenter in as 'less interesting than stools' on Twitter back in 2011.

In the newly-resurfaced tweets, Ranganathan lashed out at Corden's hosting skills, and a source close to the pair has since told The Sun their reunion is set to be 'really tense'.

Awkward! Romesh Ranganathan, 40, faces a 'tense' reunion with James Corden, 39, when he joins the League of their Own panel, after slamming the host in tweets from 2011

Romesh appeared to slam James in a post shared following his stint hosting the 2011 BRIT Awards, writing: 'I've passed stools more interesting than James Corden's presenting tonight. And I'm vegetarian.'

Another post showed Romesh lauding presenter Dermot O'Leary for being a better presenter than James, saying: 'O' Leary just took Corden to school. Presenting school. Boom!'

It is believed that James was unaware of the tweets - one of which had been deleted - until recently, despite Romesh having previously made guest appearance on A League Of Their Own before landing a permanent job on the panel.

A source said: 'The first time James and Romesh see each other is bound to be awkward.

Harsh! Romesh's first tweet came following Corden's stint hosting the 2011 BRIT Awards, calling him 'less interesting than stools'

Ouch! Romesh then lauded Dermot O' Leary for taking James 'to school' with his own presenting skills

'James invited Romesh onto his US chat show and exposed him to millions of potential new fans, and now they're going to have to sit next to each other on League after he s*****d him off.

'It could be really tense.'

Romesh was announced as the replacement for Jack Whitehall on Friday, following the 29-year-old comedian's decision to step down from the role after six years.

Jack revealed he was leaving for pastures new in an Instagram post to fans, joking his co-star Jamie Redknapp 'wept uncontrollably' following the news.

Alongside a shot of his co-stars, he penned: 'I've decided to move on from A League of Their Own.

'I had the most incredible time making this show and made some great friends in doing so. Thanks to everyone involved and all the fans.

'Jamie wept uncontrollably when I told him I was leaving, Freddie belched in my face and said he wasn't a***d either way.'

He also told fans that the rumours he quit to pursue a career in America weren't true, adding: 'I'm staying here and doing a few things that will be on British TV in the coming months - you haven't got rid of me yet.'

His announcement comes after the actor told The Sun: 'I'm leaving because my schedule is very busy.

'I love doing it but I can't do it for ever and I want to explore new opportunities  I would like to do more in America.

New ventures: Last week, Jack Whitehall revealed he was leaving A League Of Their Own after six years on the popular show

Hit Stateside: James has become a runaway hit in America since his hosting gig on The Late Late Show began in 2015 (pictured with Hugh Jackman and John Cena)

'It was very sad sitting down Jamie and Freddie and telling James on the phone. Jamie wept.

'I'm the b*****d breaking up the friends. But I think they still like me.'

The star said now his schedule is jam-packed and he has a host of new opportunities coming up, he felt it was the right time to leave the show behind.

Jack said he will miss the bizarre, high-octane challenges he has taken part in on the show including his naked mudbath with Freddie, human bowling and synchronised swimming.

He has also starred in Fresh Meat, Bad Education and Jack Whitehall: Travels With My Father.

His co-star James has become a runaway hit in America since his hosting gig on The Late Late Show began in 2015, with his phenomenally successful carpool karaoke segment gaining international acclaim.She's the Real Housewives of Melbourne star who has featured in the majority of challenges in the South African jungle.

And after yet another Tucker Trial on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here on Monday, Jackie Gillies returned to camp to explain how the 'flushed away' challenge involved having live cockroaches and maggots poured over her face.

But instead of being sympathetic, comedian Fiona O'Loughlin was having a difficult time keeping a straight face as she mocked Jackie's facial expressions.

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Having a laugh! But instead of being sympathetic, comedian Fiona O'Loughlin was having a difficult time keeping a straight face as she mocked Jackie's facial expressions

'My heart was hurting for you, but yet my stupid mind wanted to laugh,' Fiona told the behind-the-scenes camera.

'The way she's explaining it, she is like, there were maggots in my hair. I just thought, please do not laugh in Jackie's face.

'This is a horrible thing she has been through. I turn around and who is laughing? Ron, or Peter. I don't know which one,' she continued.

Flushed away! Referring to her partner-in-crime-and-comedy actor Peter Rowsthorn, the pair chuckled together as Jackie and former AFL star Josh Gibson recounted their mission

Referring to her partner-in-crime-and-comedy actor Peter Rowsthorn, the pair chuckled together as Jackie and former AFL star Josh Gibson recounted their mission.

The pair only managed to secure two stars after the challenge, meaning there would be a sparse amount of food to eat that day.

Josh's least favourite food came in the form of rotten tomatoes, which caused him to dry retch into the bushes.

Yikes! The pair only managed to secure two stars after the challenge, meaning there would be a sparse amount of food to eat that day

Gross: He also managed to get a collection of maggots caught in his crotch region

He also managed to get a collection of maggots caught in his crotch region.

The pair were unimpressed by their efforts but were quick to explain how daring the task at hand had been.

'They're crawling down your back, your hair...' Jackie explained wisely.

Fiona later teased Jackie's efforts to explain where her psychic powers came from - a story Peter rolled his eyes to.A prowler who was spotted peering inside William Shatner's LA home in January has been seen again at the property.

The suspicious man climbed a tree in the 86-year-old Star Trek legend's yard in San Fernando Valley before being approached by the same neighbour who spotted him during the first incident, reports TMZ.

When the man was asked what he was doing, he reportedly replied 'I work with children' then started singing and ran off before police could talk to him.

Suspicious: A prowler who was spotted peering inside William Shatner's LA home in January has been spotted again at the property

The Captain James T. Kirk actor is said to be in good spirits, with nothing taken from his home.

It was reported that the Los Angeles Police Department are investigating and trying to track down the man.

MailOnline has contacted representatives for William and the LAPD for comment.

This come just two weeks after Shatner's home went on red alert after a prowler was spotted outside.

Famous role: The suspicious man climbed a tree in the 86-year-old Star Trek legend's yard in San Fernando Valley before being approached by the same neighbour who had spotted him during the first incident, reports TMZ (above as Captain James T Kirk)

The actor was at his San Fernando Valley property when an adult male wearing shorts was seen peering in at around 5pm on Thursday, according to authorities.

Someone at the residence went out to confront the suspicious man, who paced in an agitated fashion before fleeing, police sources told TMZ.

After a 911 call was made, officers arrived within five minutes but they could find no trace of the prowler.

Mystery: When the man was asked what he was doing, he reportedly replied 'I work with children' then started singing and ran off before police could talk to him (pictured in January 2018)

Good spirits: The Captain James T Kirk actor is said to be in good spirits, with nothing taken from his home (pictured in December 2017)

Shatner still regularly appears at Star Trek fan conventions.

The original show ran on NBC but was pulled after the third season amid falling ratings.

However, it continued in reruns, quickly achieving cult status in the US and around the world.He's the funnyman who has never been shy about going the extra mile for a laugh.

And Tom Gleeson had some rather risque advice for embattled Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, suggesting he should sleep with all of his staff.

Appearing on Monday's The Project, the 43-year-old was drawn to talk about Barnaby after host Pete Helliar unearthed a clip of him interviewing Barnaby for his I Hate You, Change My Mind segment on the now defunct ABC satire show This Week Live.

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'He should have to r**t all his staff': Comedian Tom Gleeson offers some rather risque advice to embattled Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce on The Project

In the clip, Tom was seen asking Barnaby: 'Now, you're not just a politician, you're also an accountant by trade.

'That's a double bunger of boring. How did you trick your wife into being with you?'

Barnaby replied: 'I suppose she met me when I wasn't an accountant and she was disappointed later on'.

Cutting back to the studio, Tom declared: 'I think I need to have another chat with Barnaby. I feel there's a lot more material that we could get through.'

Harsh lesson? To make him learn his lesson he should have to r**t all his staff,' Tom declared

With that, Tom then issued some rather risque advice, suggesting that forging romantic relationships with all of his staff would scuttle any talk of favouritism.

'The thing with Barnaby Joyce is I feel sorry for him a little bit,' he began.

'But I've got some advice and that is - you know when someone smokes a cigarette, what do you do? You say: 'smoke the whole packet.' to make him learn his lesson he should have to r**t all his staff.

No favourites: Tom went on to say 'Think about that. That would clear up a lot of issues that he's got at the moment with favorable treatment because they all will have been treated equally'

He continued: 'Think about that. That would clear up a lot of issues that he's got at the moment with favorable treatment because they all will have been treated equally.'

With the panel erupting into laughter, host Waleed Aly responded with: 'That's a hell of a ministerial code of conduct you've got there.'

Barnaby Joyce's political career is currently hanging in the balance after it was revealed that he was expecting a child with former staffer Vikki Campion.

No holds barred: With the panel erupting with laughter, host Waleed Aly responded with: 'that's a hell of a ministerial code of conduct you've got there.'

Barnaby and Vikki have reportedly moved into a townhouse gifted to the Deputy PM by a multi-millionaire friend.

The pair will be reportedly living rent-free for six months - saving a whopping $14,000 - in the New England property owned by businessman Greg Maguire, according to The Australian

Barnaby moved out of the Tamworth family home he shared with wife Natalie and four children in December and later moved into the townhouse he now shares with Vikki.She is no stranger to flaunting her figure thanks to her role as a former glamour model.

But Katie Price suffered an accidental fashion faux-pas as she went braless in a completely sheer top while out with her daughter Princess Tiaami, 10, in Dublin, Ireland, after an appearance on The Ray Darcy Show on Sunday night.

The mother-of-five's trip came after she denied allegations she has been sharing sexually explicit videos of her ex-husband Alex Reid with strangers.

Oops! Katie Price suffered an accidental fashion faux-pas as she went braless in a completely sheer top while out with her daughter Princess Tiaami, 10, in Dublin, Ireland, on Sunday night

The television personality opted to go braless for her appearance, flaunting her surgically-enhanced assets in a racy nude top adorned with silver gems.

Katie paired the look with tight black PVC trousers and black velvet boots, which enhanced her svelte frame.

The mother-of-five opted for her usual glamorous make-up look, sporting dramatic eyelashes, heavily contoured cheeks and a slick of pink lipstick.

Princess, 10 - Katie's daughter with ex-husband Peter Andre - looked sweet in a pale pink padded jacket, velvet leggings and silver trainers.

Busty: The television personality opted to go braless for her appearance, flaunting her surgically-enhanced assets in a racy nude top adorned with silver gems

Girls' night: Katie paired the look with tight black PVC trousers and black velvet boots, which enhanced her svelte frame

During the show, Katie talked to the host about why she puts her disabled son Harvey, 15, into the spotlight and her petition to criminalise online trolling.

She said: 'Everyone else puts their kids up there, just because of my job, I'm proud and especially with Harvey because of his special needs and stuff.'

Despite her meteoric rise as a page-three girl which lead to careers on screen, music, and fashion, but Katie said nothing else comes close to her petition to end online abuse reaching parliament.

Katie added: 'People can knock me all they like but for 25 years, whether I've been a glamour model or not, the best thing for me out of everything is being able to have the power to get that many signatures to be able to go to the government to try and have a law in place to stop online abuse.



Mini-me: Princess, 10 - Katie's daughter with ex-husband Peter Andre - looked sweet in a pale pink padded jacket, velvet leggings and silver trainers

Doting mum:During the Ray D Arsy show, she talked to the host about why she puts her disabled son Harvey, 15, into the spotlight and her petition to criminalise online trolling

'I don't care about anything else in my career, that's important.'

Her trip comes after her ex-husband Alex Reid, 42, claimed his Katie had shown explicit and private images of him dressed as his drag alter-ego Roxanne to a group of strangers in the audience of Celebrity's Big Brother's Bit On The Side.

It was reported that the police were now involved and that they had been in touch with the Loose Women presenter over the 'revenge porn' claims.

But the What Katie Did Next... star took to her social media to set the record straight on the matter, posting a message that vehemently denied the allegations and stating she has not been contacted by the police at all.

She wrote: 'I take online bullying and revenge porn seriously. My family have been subjected to such and I have been the victim of revenge porn. I would not do it to someone else.

Glamour girl: The mother-of-five opted for her usual glamorous make-up look, sporting dramatic eyelashes, heavily contoured cheeks and a slick of pink lipstick

Drama: Katie's trip to Dublin comes after she denied allegations she has been sharing sexually explicit content of her ex-husband Alex Reid to strangers

'It is sad that my attempting to push through help for those bullied online is used by someone to suggest that I have behaved in this way or to get publicity for themselves.'

MMA fighter Alex told MailOnline last week: 'I am very upset that such private matters are once again being aired in the press. I am taking legal action against Katie Price over her actions and I will not be commenting publicly any further.'

The allegations comes after the former model admitted last year she had 'disgusting' and 'disturbing' footage of Alex but vowed never to make it public because it would be 'so embarrassing him for him'.

But Katie has passionately declared none of this is the truth, categorically addressing each point in a concise list and stating that she does, in fact, not keep such material on her phone.

She went on: 'I would like to make the following clear: I do not have any videos/sexual images of Alex Reid or Roxanne on my phone.

'Lies!' The What Katie Did Next... star took to her social media to set the record straight about Alex Reid, posting a message that vehemently denied the allegations

'I did not show TV audience members a video of Alex or Roxanne engaged in sexual activity, nor would I.

'I have not had contact from the police, but if I get such I will co-operate fully to show them that this allegation is a lie.

'I have made clear that I would never reveal tapes of Alex Reid or Roxanne.'

Katie and Alex tied the knot in Las Vegas in February 2010, but announced their split under a year later in January 2011.

The former glamour model was previously married to singer turned TV personality Peter Andre, 44 from September 2005 to May 2009.

The couple raise son Junior, 12, and daughter Princess, 10, together.

Katie has son Jett, four, and daughter Bunny, three, with former stripper Kieran Hayler, 30, who she tied the knot with in the Bahamas in May 2013.

The star confirmed the pair's intention to divorce in August 2017 after the marriage was rocked by a series of affairs.

Katie's eldest son Harvey, 15, is from a brief relationship with former Manchester United footballer, 46.She revels in sharing daring shots of herself in skimpy bikinis to her legion of fans on social media.

But it appears Noni Janur's boyfriend is just as much a fan as the rest of her 55,000 Instagram followers, as he showed off a T-shirt emblazoned a sexy picture of his busty girlfriend in a tight-fitting red swimsuit.

Samuel Johnston, 29, shared a picture of himself in the garment and said it was an early Valentine's Day present.

He's whipped! Samuel Johnston, the boyfriend of former Bachelor babe Noni Janur, has shared an early birthday present from the busty former reality star

'My gf loves to remind me.. just in case I forget... who my Valentine's Day date is'

The picture of the LA-based model in his T-shirt sent his followers into a frenzy and many left complimentary comments about his busty girlfriend.

'She's smart and damn hot!' one user wrote, while another added, 'She's a hot one.'

Curves ahead! The couple are currently in a long distance relationship with hunky Sam, 29, an aspiring model in Los Angeles while Noni remains in Australia

On Monday, former reality star Noni and her hunky boyfriend said that they would like to give reality TV a try and may apply for this year's season of The Block.

Speaking to NW magazine, the 27-year-old said she thought it would be a lot of fun.

And, regarding her time on The Bachelor, Noni said: 'The best thing about the show was meeting him [Sam]'.

'She's smart and damn hot!': Sam's fans were quick to react to the T-shirt with a number of them gushing over Noni

'We may even apply for The Block together, that would be fun.'

But it may not be the easiest of exercises, with Noni in Australia and the aspiring model in the United States hoping to build his profile.

And even if he was to move back Down Under, it might not be the smoothest ride - with former Bachelor Sam Wood revealing last week he applied for the 2018 season of the renovation show but was knocked back.

Spotted outside Fitzroy Street in Melbourne late last year filming an audition tape with his friend, Sam told Daily Mail Australia that his application was unsuccessful.

Stronger than ever: 'We may even apply for The Block together, that would be fun'

'No, we are definitely not going to be on The Block,' confirmed Sam last week.

'My friend Paul was desperate to be on it so I said, 'Mate, if you wanna have a go at it I'm happy to go along with you',' he confessed.

'I said to him, 'Mate, if you want to put an audition in you can.' So he did that and if we had got through to the interview stage we would've had a decision to make.'

'But they're obviously looking for more couples rather than two bozos like us.'He's the 'bad boy' of Australian fashion who recently admitted that modelling was 'not that hard'.

And Jordan Barrett has now revealed that the best career advice he's ever received came from his convicted drug dealer father, Adrian.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph on Tuesday, the 21-year-old catwalker said it was his father that had helped keep his ego in check during his meteoric rise to modelling stardom.

'Always be polite and keep grounded': Jordan Barrett reveals his convicted drug dealer father gave him the best career advice he's ever had

'[He said] always to be polite and always to keep my head on my shoulders and keep grounded,' he told the publication.

In 2015, News.com.au reported that Adrian was jailed for his involvement in a $12 million drug ring.

The publication stated that the 'cannabis Kingpin' and his partner Allison Cale, ran a 'syndicate' from their Queensland hydroponics shop.

No ego: '[He said] always to be polite and always to keep my head on my shoulders and keep grounded,' Jordan told The Daily Telegraph

The pair were sentenced to eight years jail in 2013 and were granted parole in 2015 after serving less than three years behind bars.

Speaking to BW magazine ahead of his turn at the recent David Jones' Autumn Winter 2018 Collections launch, Jordan admitted that his chosen profession was not that hard.

'It's not that hard to walk down a runway, is what I usually tell he people,' Jordan said.

Trouble: News.com.au reported, in 2015, that Adrian was jailed for his involvement in a $12 million drug ring

He added: 'You're just walking in clothes, really. Then you change them and put some shoes on. I'm usually barefoot, so I put shoes on and I walk.'

Jordan made headlines in May 2017 when he was paid a rumoured $100,000 to appear in a Justin Cassin show for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Sydney.

With his hard partying ways well documented, Jordan has also been linked with the likes of Bella Hadid and Paris Hilton. Mark Harrison, 34, Memphis, was picked up Jan. 12 on a bench warrant.

 Christopher Dodge, 30, Auburn, was picked up Jan. 19 on a bench warrant.

 Christopher Thomas, 40, Syracuse, was charged Jan. 19 with third-degree burglary.

 Philip Kijowski, 28, Auburn, was picked up Jan. 22 on a bench warrant.

 Loren Nasholts, 43, Aurora, was picked up Jan. 22 on a bench warrant.

 Doryon Meredeth, 26, Alameda, California, was charged Jan. 23 with second-degree criminal trespass.

 Calvin Prock, 63, Weedsport, was charged Jan. 25 with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

 Lester Wing, 51, Conquest, was charged Feb. 2 with failure to notify change of address as a sex offender.

 Scott Robbins, 40, Groton, was picked up Feb. 4 on a bench warrant.

 Garrett Schafer, 18, Auburn, was picked up Feb. 5 on a bench warrant.

 Jason Colon, 37, Auburn, was charged Feb. 5 with second-degree criminal contempt.

 Joshua LaClair, 31, Auburn, was picked up Feb. 6 on a bench warrant.

Love 1 Funny 3 Wow 1 Sad 1 Angry 1She announced in January that she would be welcoming a second son.

But before expecting for the second time, Victoria Secret Angel Candice Swanepoel, 29, showcased her incredible figure as she unveiled her own swimwear range, Tropic of C.

The South African supermodel - who shot the campaign before becoming pregnant - sizzled in the skin-flashing shoot as she donned a textured stone-coloured bikini which highlighted her trademark narrow waist.

Sizzling: Victoria Secret Angel Candice Swanepoel, 29, showcased her incredible figure as she unveiled her own swimwear range, Tropic of C

Her balconette silhouette bikini top drew attention to her cleavage and decolletage while she posed infront of some foliage which made her swimwear offering and golden skin pop.

The catwalk star continued her sultry display as she slipped on pair of matching high-waisted bikini bottoms which exhibited her slender pins and perky posterior while her signature blonde locks cascaded down her back in a wet look.

In another pulse-racing shot, she flaunted her figure in a rust-coloured swimsuit that boasted a scoop neckline while posing against the rugged shoreline.

Candice's ribbed one-piece featured a thong-style silhouette which continued highlighted her perky derriere while she smoldered down the camera lens.

Cheeky: The South African supermodel sizzled in the skin-flashing shoot as she donned a textured stone-coloured bikini which highlighted her trademark narrow waist

Figure-flaunting: In another pulse-racing shot, she flaunted her figure in a rust-coloured swimsuit that boasted a scoop neckline while posing against the rugged shoreline

Her new campaign continues to flash her gym-honed posterior and pre-baby body in a sizzling black bikini, plunging white swimsuit and orange one-piece.

Candice's latest fashion venture comes a month after she made the big reveal that she was expecting a second son on January 22 with an Instagram video of her one-year-old Anaca kissing her bump.

'My boys,' the star wrote warmly in her caption.

She first publicized the pregnancy with a December Instagram snap of herself cradling her bump. Her caption effervesced: 'Christmas came early.. #2'.

Model behvaiour: Candice's ribbed one-piece featured a thong-style silhouette which continued highlighted her perky derriere and slender pins

Work it: Her new campaign continues to flash her gym-honed posterior and pre-baby body in a sizzling black bikini

Shore thing! She posed up a storm along the idyllic shoreline

Candice has been with her children's father, Brazilian model Hermann Nicoli, since 2005, having reportedly met him in Paris when she was all of 17 years old.

She first walked the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in Los Angeles in 2007. Three years later, the brand proclaimed her one of its Angels.

This past November, she made her triumphal return to the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which for the first time was held in Shanghai.

The trilingual model - who now has 11.8 million Instagram followers - took 2016's Paris edition of the extravaganza off, having delivered Anaca the month prior.

Water about that! Candice model a pink swimsuit while strewn across a rock

Criss cross: She then slipped into a plunging white swimsuit which boasted a criss-cross detailing across her back

In a British Vogue interview last year, she confided that since becoming a mother 'I cant watch movies, or even commercials, where kids are in any kind of danger now.'

As she recalled to the magazine: 'The last two movies I watched were Lion and Mama, with Penelope Cruz, and I mean, just bawling on the couch. Oh my god, they are both so beautiful but you just wont get through it.'

She said of parenthood: 'Its all so new to me and I think, especially in the beginning, that everything is such a joy; youre excited about every moment.

Enviable: She highlighted her enviable pre-pregnancy figure in a envy-inducing orange swimsuit

New chapter: Candice's latest fashion venture comes as she made the big reveal that she was expecting a second son on January 22 with an Instagram video of her one-year-old Anaca kissing her bump

To her, 'Becoming a mother makes the world feel so much better. Nothing can get me down. I just look at him and see him seeing the world for the first time, and its just such a pleasure to see it through his eyes.'

She shared with British Vogue that 'Im loving being a mum and this new stage in my life. Its always been about me, and my career, and its so nice to have this shift and put all my love and energy into something else.'

Bluebella have recently declared Candice the 'most influential lingerie model' on Instagram, claiming she can earn 50,000 per post.The Australian actor pranked the world when his rumoured role in a Crocodile Dundee film was revealed as an elaborate tourism Superbowl ad this month.

And Chris Hemsworth, a Tourism Australia ambassador since 2016, continued to promote his native country on Tuesday.

The 34-year-old hunk got up-close-and-personal with a variety of animals during a getaway to South Australia's Kangaroo Island this week.

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Chris Hemsworth swims with dolphins and gets up close and personal with a slippery serpent and cuddly koala during family holiday in South Australia's Kangaroo Island

Chris was on holidays with Spanish actress wife Elsa Pataky and their three young children.

The Thor star uploaded snaps holding a snake and cuddling up to a koala.

Chris showed off his muscular biceps as he held the creatures, while wearing a singlet tank top.

Believed to be in partnership with his ambassador role, Chris told his 14 million followers: 'Another amazing place to visit in @australia @sealbay @kiwildlifepark.'

'Hanging with the locals at Kangaroo Island': Chris posed for a selfie with dolphins, before diving in for a swim with the creatures

All smiles! The Thor star filmed himself grinning underwater as he swam with the dolphins

Chris added: 'Koalas, snakes, sea lions, dolphins, check out #kangarooisland.'

Cutting a casual figure while on holidays, he wore a black Emery Surfboard singlet and matching cap while he happily posed with the animals.

In a short clip, the former Home And Away star swam with dolphins, gleaming from ear-to-ear as he filmed himself under the water.

He wrote: 'Hanging with the locals at Kangaroo Island, cheers to @kimarineadventures for dropping me in the thick of it! #kangarooisland @australia.'

Family time: Getting in touch with nature, Chris also appeared to enjoy a spot of fishing with his three young children

Reel-y buff! Chris took his shirt off to showcase his muscular frame while holding a fishing rod to reel in fish

Getting in touch with nature, Chris also appeared to enjoy a spot of fishing with his three young children.

Holding the fishing rod, he was seen helping his children reel in a catch.

Wife Elsa even uploaded pictures and videos of the family interacting with sea lions and told her followers the family had caught a squid while fishing.

Meanwhile, Chris appeared comfortable holding a snake in his hands, with Elsa revealing last year that the couple keep a pet snake of their own in their bedroom.

Sss..easoned pro! Chris appeared comfortable holding a snake in his hands, with Elsa revealing last year that the couple keep a pet snake of their own in their bedroom

'I dont mind the wild, people are like You have a snake in your bedroom! And Im like, I know! I love it!' She revealed to Husskie at the time.

The self-confessed animal lover also keeps horses on their sprawling Byron Bay property, revealing she feels lucky to raise her three children in touch with nature.

Elsa and Chris married in 2010 after a whirlwind romance and have three children together - a four-year-old daughter India and three-year-old twin sons Tristan and Sasha.The who's who of the A-list elite rolled out in force for Ellen DeGeneres' 60th birthday on Saturday night, proving she really is the most popular woman in Hollywood.

The VIP guest list almost matched the likes of the Golden Globes and Oscars, with power players like Jennifer Aniston, Oprah, Jennifer Lawrence, Amy Schumer and Reese Witherspoon all in attendance.

Music stars joined in the fun too including Jennifer Lopez, Adele, Pink, Melissa Etheridge and John Legend, who took along his pregnant wife Chrissy Teigen.

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Photobooth fun: Jennifer Aniston and Olivia Munn pulled their silliest expressions at Ellen DeGeneres' 60th birthday party on Saturday night. They are pictured with Kathy Najimy

Happy faces: Ellen's wife Portia de Rossi shared some loved up snaps of the couple dancing during the bash

Of course, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West were also among the party goers.

Much of the fun was captured on camera, with many stars sharing snaps from the photo booth.

Sharing a selection of photobooth snaps to Instagram Olivia Munn, 37, was seen in a multi-color striped dress as she flashed a surprised expression at the camera alongside Aniston, who dressed in black.

The Friends alum folded her arms and gave it some serious attitude as she posed with Munn and Sister Act star Kathy Najimy.

Hunger Games star Lawrence, 27, arrived in a black satin dress with lace trim as posed alongside a pal in the photobooth.

Special night: The birthday girl was clearly having a great night in this candid snap shared by Rossi

Say cheese! Jennifer Lawrence looked lovely in a black satin frock while posing with a friend

Night to remember: Jennifer Lopez looked sensational in a little black dress and heels

Counting his blessings: DJ Khaled, who has just been named as a Weight Watchers ambassador, chatted with Oprah Winfrey who has represented the brand since 2015

Also spotted in photobooth snaps was comedian James Corden and wife Julia Carey along with Scooter Braun and wife Yael Cohen.

In a black and white snap shared to Instagram DJ Khaled, who has just signed on as a Weight Watchers ambassador, was captured chatting away to media mogul Oprah Winfrey, who also represents the brand.

The hip hop star wrote a gushing message in the caption about being grateful in life before branding the party 'amazing'.

Ellen's wife Portia de Rossi, 45, shared some sweet photos of the evening including one of the actress wrapping her arms around the birthday girl as they danced during the night looking loved up and beaming big smiles.

Ellen's wife of nine years also shared a photo of the venue, revealing a stage area set up with walls draped in red fabric and ornate chandeliers.

'THE coolest night of our entire lives': Songstress Meghan Trainor was lucky enough to get a snap with the birthday girl in the photobooth

Ready to party: The 24-year-old singer sizzled in metallic jumpsuit as she brought her fiance Daryl Sabara as her date

Rap mogul P Diddy oozed cool as he stepped in the booth with 'sis' LaurieAnn Gibson

Girls Night: Munn posed alongside Kim Kardashian and pregnant Chrissy Teigen as well as Alex Parker and Yael Cohen

Performing at the party was singer Melissa Etheridge who tweeted a message after the bash revealing some more of the VIP guests in attendance

Thanks: Pharrell also got a special shout-out from Ellen after performing at the birthday bash

One lucky guest who did got a photobooth snap with the comedienne during the night was songstress Meghan Trainor.

The All About That Bass hitmaker looked super glam alongside the TV host who pulled a funny face for the camera.

'Happy birthday @theellenshow !!! @darylsabara and I had so much fun!! THE coolest night of our entire lives' Trainor said.

Performing at the party was singer Melissa Etheridge who tweeted a message after the bash revealing some more of the VIP guests in attendance as she tagged Adele, Pink, Reese Witherspoon, John Mayer Laura Dern and Chelsea handler.

Pharrell also got a special shout-out from Ellen after performing at the birthday bash.

Thank you @Pharrell for making my birthday so special. And of course the amazing @mettenarrative.

All love: Crooner The Weeknd also made an appearance and shared this snap with Oprah

Party time: Ellen shared this fun photo of singer Pink having a giggle with the media mogul

'Amazing performance': Diddy got up to help French Montana perform his hit Unforgettable

Belting out a song: The birthday girl herself took the mic at one point

Keep a straight face: Talent manager Scooter Braun posed alongside wife Yael Cohen and Kim's husband Kanye West

'That was fun... my legs hurt from dancing. Out of respect I did not take any pictures but I did connect with some old friends that I love dearly...' the songwriter wrote.

During the night Amy Schumer confirmed her romance with Chris Fischer, sharing a black and white photo of herself and the chef kissing in the photobooth.

The I Feel Pretty actress has been romantically linked with the chef since last November but has never addressed the rumors.

She captioned the photo: 'Happy Birthday @theellenshow thank you for having us! (sic)'

Double date! Scooter and Yael were joined by James Corden and his wife Julia Carey for a snap

A-listers: Kim and Kanye dressed to impressed as they posed in the photobooth with Chrissy and husband John Legend

Kim sported a gorgeous brown satin gown which had a crisscross neckline that showed off her busty chest

Star-studded: While Ellen didn't appear in many snaps herself, she shared Kim Kardashian's tweet to reveal she was having the best time

The 36-year-old star previously dated furniture designer Ben Hanisch for 18 months until last May but the pair vowed to remain friends.

Earlier this month Ellen was moved to tears when wife Portia De Rossi, 45, surprised her with the gift of a gorilla sanctuary in Rwanda.

Rossi announced the gift during a taping of Ellen's talk show earlier this month when she made a surprise appearance.

'I'm being told there's someone else here who wants to say happy birthday, I don't know who it is, but come on out.' Ellen told the audience.

During the bash Amy Schumer confirmed her romance with Chris Fischer, sharing a black and white photo of herself and the chef kissing in the photobooth

Knees-up: Melissa McCarthy showed off some fancy footwork with the birthday girl

So much love! The TV personality is seen chatting with Bruno Mars

She's popular! Other guests at the bash included Red Hot Chilli Peppers' Anthony Kiedis, Josh Klinghoffer and talent manager Guy Oseary

VIP life: The celebrity couples were all smiles as they were accompanied by more A-listers to celebrate Ellen's big night

Her Ally McBeal actress wife then emerged from backstage, to DeGeneres' astonishment.

Rossi then played a video in which she revealed that one of DeGeneres' long-time heroes was conservationist Dian Fossey, who helped to inspire the talk show host's own passion for animals.

'So, for your birthday, Ellen, I am bringing you and your hero, Dian, together by building The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund,' said the Scream 2 actress.

'Ellen, you will carry on Dian's legacy by giving them a permanent home in Rwanda. Now, you will join Dian as a protector and champion of these amazing animals, the mountain gorillas. Happy birthday!'

Good lighting: Kim's icy blonde locks were poker straight and parted down the middle, and she further accentuated her natural beauty with golden makeup hues

Parents night out: Joining Kimye in the photobooth was Chrissy, who donned a elegant red dress that draped over her growing baby bump

Cute couple: Chrissy's husband John stepped out in a blue suit that highlighted his built figure

Dressed to match! Kim and Kanye looked like a picture perfect couple at the comedienne's 60th birthday celebration

Ellen will share some of the stories from inside her party during her chat show on Tuesday.

She'll also share some video of her celebrity guests having a great time, including Diddy singing, Reese spinning discs and raising a glass with Oprah.

Ready to spill the beans: Ellen, pictured with wife Portia, will share some of the stories from inside her party during her chat show on Tuesday

She'll also share some video of her celebrity guests including raising a glass with Oprah

The video will also show Diddy singing for the birthday girlShe is known to be a fitness fanatic and is often seen heading to the gym for a gruelling work-out session.

And Jess Wright showed off the fruits of her fitness crusade as she flaunted her toned frame while leaving an Essex gym with a male pal on Monday.

The former TOWIE star, 32, flaunted her honed frame in a stylish blue jumper, paired with semi-sheer leggings as she headed home after another training session.

Gym bunny: Jess Wright showed off the fruits of her fitness crusade as she flaunted her toned frame while leaving an Essex gym with a male pal on Monday

Hometime: The former TOWIE star, 32, flaunted her honed frame in a stylish blue jumper, paired with semi-sheer leggings as she headed home after another training session

The brunette beauty's toned legs were centre of attention as she slipped into dove grey leggings, which featured a black mesh panel on both calves.

Keeping her muscles warm after her workout, she paired the leggings with a light blue Adidas jumper and a simple black t-shirt.

Looking every inch the dedicated gym-goer, the star completed her ensemble with white and pink trainers.

Her brunette tresses were swept back from her face into a high ponytail while her pretty features were enhanced with a light dusting of bronzer and a candied pink gloss, with her peepers covered by dark shades.

Toned: The brunette beauty's toned legs were centre of attention as she slipped into dove grey leggings, which featured a black mesh panel on both calves.

Leggy: Keeping her muscles warm after her workout, she paired the leggings with a light blue Adidas jumper and a simple black t-shirt

Chatty: Her brunette tresses were swept back from her face into a high ponytail while her pretty features were enhanced with a light dusting of bronzer and a candied pink gloss

Her male friend looked every bit as devoted to his fitness as Jess, and was clad in a tight black vest top, grey joggers and slate and orange trainers.

He kept his chestnut locks tied in a ponytail and covered by a cap.

Jess recently revealed she is finally happy in her own skin after years of feeling uncomfortable in swimwear while on the beach.

The older sister of reality personality Mark Wright, 31, previously spoke out about her ongoing battle with her weight, saying her life has been turned around by her training regime.

Stylish: Jess covered her sparkling peepers with dark shades as she jogged to the car

Pals: Her male friend looked every bit as devoted to his fitness as Jess, and was clad in a tight black vest top, grey joggers and slate and orange trainers

Fresh-faced: The star showed off her natural beauty as she left the gym session

Energetic: Jess showed off her incredible toned figure in her clinging work-out gear

'I have struggled with my weight and fitness regime for my entire life. I had a lack of motivation and determination which made me feel like I never achieved my true fitness potential,' she told MailOnline.

The reality TV star recently revealed she was inspired to get in shape by unflattering photos of her taken during a trip to Las Vegas, telling ITV's Lorraine last year: 'I felt awful when it happened. All these pictures came out and I was devastated.'

Meanwhile, her ex-boyfriend Ricky Rayment, 27, confessed he regrets the way he left things with Jess.

The TOWIE couple split after two years of dating in 2014 after she said she had found flirty Twitter messages sent by him to other girls.

Stylish: Jess showed off her enviable frame in her semi-sheer work-out gear

And when he was quizzed about their split by Lizzie Cundy on FUBAR radio he admitted: 'Yeah, it wasn't good'.

He said: 'I was young and stupid and made a few mistakes' - referring to the incident which left his relationship with Jess in tatters - airing on the show in October 2014.

However, Ricky said he bumped into his former love on the red carpet at the National Television Awards on Tuesday night.

He said: 'I saw Jess at the NTA's - At first I didn't want to get in her way. I didn't want to make her feel awkward but then she was like "It's all good!"

'We started chatting about our dogs, because obviously I bought her her dog and she's still got it.'So far, she has walked in three shows and attended multiple Fashion Week events.

And on Monday, Bella Hadid strutted her stuff on yet another designer's catwalk, this time, for Ralph Lauren.

The pretty brunette was styled in a denim dress, that paid homage to Hollywood's golden years.

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Working the runway: Bella Hadid, 21, strutted her stuff on yet another designer's catwalk, this time, for Ralph Lauren

The 21-year-old wore a spaghetti strap frock with white paint detailing. The bottom of the knee-length piece was adorned with feather fringe.

The supermodel's locks were styled pin straight, hair parted down the middle. Her make-up was kept natural.

Bella's look was complete with chandelier earrings and wedge sandals.

Casual yet fancy: The supermodel wore a spaghetti strap frock with white paint detailing. The bottom of the knee-length piece was adorned with feather fringe

Letting her frock do the talking: The supermodel's locks were styled pin straight, hair parted down the middle. Her make-up was kept natural

What money can buy: Later, Bella changed into yet another of her eclectic wardrobe choices

Life's good! The model and heiress made sure to flash the peace sign to let all know everything was alright in Bella land

Having been a brand for over 50 years, the name itself drew a collection of A-list talent for its front row seats.

Katie Holmes, Hilary Swank, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, were among those in attendance.

Also sitting front row was Olivia Palermo and husband Johannes Huebl.

That's...interesting? Bella's brother Anwar also walked in the show. The young model, 18, wore a peculiar set of ladies' espadrilles

Classic: Despite his shoes, the California native looked handsome in a striped shirt and white pants, held together with a brown belt

A-list: Katie Holmes, 39, was a guest of honor at the designer show

Big names: Hilary Swank, 43, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, 30, also attended

Date: Olivia Palermo, 31, and husband Johannes Huebl, 40, were front row guests as well

Pretty girls: Olivia took a fashion risk in plaid pants with a furry shrug, while House of Cards star Rachel Brosnahan, 27, looked marvelous in a chic, patterned look

Ralph's collection was summer inspired, and featured a color palette of white, navy and sky blue.

Keeping true to his feminine, crisp and clean taste, the designer styled his models in white, long-sleeved tops, '50's-inspired skirts and dresses, and flirty spaghetti strap frocks.

For his designer walk out, Ralph, 78, was just as stylish as his designs, choosing to wear a classic, navy blazer with gold buttons, jeans, and sued boots.

He received a standing ovation and smiles from the audience, including a beaming Katie Holmes.

Enjoying their time: Rosie was seated next to fashion editor Derek Blasberg, 35

Lovely ladies: Hilary, who looked darling in gray, sat next to Lauren Bush Lauren, 33, the daughter-in-law of the designer

Getting it right: Rachel and Katie coordinated perfectly in gray, with Katie choosing a more casual look with a puffer jacket

Stunner: Katie's make-up looked beautiful. The mother-of-one chose a deep, bold color that balanced well with her colorful eyes

Day and night: For their nails, Rachel chose a neutral color, while Katie went with a dark shade

Looking forward to sun: Ralph's collection was summer inspired, and featured a color palette of white, navy and sky blue

Well-dressed: For his designer walk out, Ralph, 78, was just as stylish as his designs, choosing to wear a classic, navy blazer with gold buttons, jeans, and sued bootsJohn Legend was spotted filming a new commercial on Sunday.

So Chrissy Teigen and their baby Luna took the opportunity of joining John Legend on set in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The 32-year-old, who is expecting their second child, showed off her growing baby bump - and cleavage - in a clingy dress as she got out of an SUV.

Those spaghetti straps are working overtime! A pregnant Chrissy Teigen almost spilled out of her clingy grey mini-dress when she joined John Legend on set of commercial in LA on Sunday

And she couldn't resist planting a sweet kiss on her husband while he held their gorgeous daughter, who turns two in April.

Her busty display comes after she posted an Instagram of herself topless as she prepared salad with two emojis of sliced tomatoes and cucumbers preserving her modesty.

She captioned the fun shot: 'Plz dont shame me I am a strong proud salad making woman just being natural and trying to live my life.'

On Sunday, the beautiful brunette showed off her curvy figure in a grey, clingy, low-cut mini dress which she teamed with a comfy, burnt orange, velour jacket that reached her knees.

Cute kiss: The 32-year-old model couldn't resist planting a smacker on the lips of the crooner, 38, as he held Luna

Smiling star: The All Of Me star cuddled up to his wife, whom he wrote the song for

Casual comfort: The beautiful brunette showed off her curvy figure in a grey, clingy, low-cut mini dress which she teamed with a burnt orange, velour jacket that reached her knees

The celebrity, who has parlayed her fame as a model into a successful TV career as co-host of the Paramount Network's Lip Sync Battle, styled her hair into an elaborate braided updo.

And despite the baby bump, Chrissy had no trouble walking in her very high-heeled strappy sandals.

John, 38, didn't seen to want to put his darling daughter down as he held onto her for as long as possible.

Cooking with Chrissy! The model turned cook book author shared a funny topless photograph with her fans on Instagram over the weekend

Quick change: The Lip Sync Battle host arrived at John's changing room in fluffy slippers but she changed in to strappy high-heeled sandals as she carried Luna down the steps

That's an interesting look: John was clad in a brightly colored zip jacket and matching pants that featured a geometric design, but he didn't reveal what the commercial was for

He only let go when he emerged from his dressing room/trailer.

The All Of Me hitmaker was clad in a brightly colored zip jacket and matching pants that featured a geometric design.

Teamed with high-rise white boots, he looked a bit like some new superhero.

Shining bright: Luna wore star spangled jeans as she held on her mom and dad's hands

Daddy's girl: She was soon back in her father's arms who seemed quite content

Little luna lived up to her name in jeans with large pink and white stars and a pink frilly top.

John didn't reveal who or what the commercial was for.

Meanwhile, the couple, who have been married since September 2013, have yet to reveal the sex of their new baby or when he or she will arrive.

Cute as a button: Luna lived up to her name in jeans covered with pink and white starsHe looked fit and well when he was in Barbados in December filming a new spy thriller.

But Julia Roberts' big brother Eric seemed a shadow of himself when he jetted into New York's JFK from Los Angeles on Saturday evening.

The 61-year-old was helped into a wheelchair by an airport employee who pushed him from the gate to baggage claim.

Enjoying the ride: A frail-looking Eric Roberts was pushed through JFK in a wheelchair on on Saturday evening after tweeting about his 'slightly injured hip'

However, he explained his frail condition in a tweet he shared to Delta Airlines saying: 'May need a bit of a ride from ticket counter to gate due to slightly injured hip. Thanks, guys! @Delta'

It was immediately followed by a similar tweet to Turkish Airlines.

However, the actor didn't reveal how he hurt his hip or how long it will take him to recover.

On a role: Julia Roberts' 61-year-old brother looked frail after the flight

Here's why the star looked poorly: Eric also sent a similar tweet to Delta same

'Eric looked like a shell of his former self,' said an eyewitness who was on the star's flight. 'He didn't look good at all. It was really concerning.

'He looked incredibly thin and weak and carried a cane. He slept most of the flight and seemed too weak to walk.

'Once at baggage claim the assistant got his luggage and wheeled him out to his transportation.'

Waiting for his bags: An airport employee pushed Eric to baggage claim

Eric, who is 10 years older than Julia, 51, is one of the hardest working actors in Hollywood with an amazing 481 credits to his name on the Internet Movie DataBase with an AMAZING 29 projects set up for this year.

The 5ft 10in, Oscar nominated actor was in Barbados to film Lord Of The Dance star Michael Flatley's self-funded thriller.

He will next be seen in action drama Days Of Power about a pop star and his band who go missing, due out on February 20.She's the model-turned-actress who found fame playing Home And Away's bikini-loving policewoman Katarina Chapman.

And Pia Miller, 33, has revealed the dressing room ritual she used to play the hard-hitting role that put her acting career on the map.

'When I was on Home & Away and I had my own sort of dressing room, I would definitely meditate before scenes,' she told Popsugar this Tuesday.

'I would meditate before scenes': Pia Miller, 33, has revealed the dressing room ritual she used to play bikini-loving policewoman Katarina Chapman on Home And Away

'Not every scene, but definitely in the morning when I'd have time. . . If I had 10 minutes then I'd use that 10 minutes very wisely,' she explained.

Pia also revealed to the publication that she had mixed feelings about her decision to leave Home And Away at the end of last year.

'[Leaving Home And Away] was bittersweet. It was obviously really sad to say goodbye to that character and to people that I've worked with for so long,' she said.

'It was obviously really sad to say goodbye': Pia has also revealed to the publication that she had mixed feelings about her decision to leave Home And Away at the end of last year

'But it was also really exciting to see what else is out there,' she admitted.

These days Pia is focusing on her new role in the Channel Nine mini-series Bite Club alongside Dominic Monaghan, Deborah Mailman and Todd Lasance.

The thriller follows the tale of two detectives who survive a shark attack, before joining forces to hunt down a serial killer who is stalking them.

'With its international all-star cast, stunning locations and gripping crime stories, Bite Club is set to be the freshest and most thrilling new drama of 2018,' said Nine's Heads of Drama Andy Ryan and Jo Rooney.

New gig: These days Pia is focussing on her new role in the Channel Nine mini-series Bite Club alongside Dominic Monaghan, Deborah Mailman and Todd Lasance

The Chilean beauty recently revealed that she's hot on the audition trail in search of new roles.

'I take it day by day and I audition for things when they come up. I don't have my sights set on Hollywood, which is always publicised about me. It's not the case,' she told The Daily Telegraph.

'I'm just enjoying what I'm doing and spending time with family,' said the mother-of-two.He's made no secret of the fact he once enjoyed a night of passion with a transsexual woman.

And Kyle Sandilands, 46, has shared another racy confession this week by admitting that he once had an account on popular gay hook-up app Grindr.

Appearing on his KIIS FM show with Jackie 'O' Henderson this Tuesday, the shock-jock said: 'I think one of my friends put me on there as the Big Gold Mic.'

'Everyone wanted me!' Kyle Sandilands, 46, has shared another racy confession this week by admitting that he once had an account on popular gay hook-up app Grindr

'Apparently I went off around the Parramatta area! Everyone wanted me in Paramatta!' he insisted.

Kyle also added of Grindr users: 'Apparently they don't even care what each other looks like. If you want to be on those apps, it's fine.'

Indeed, a newly-uncovered image of Kyle's Grindr page shows the controversial star posing shirtless for a selfie with the caption: 'happy mardi gras darls! x'.

Big Gold Mic: A newly-uncovered image of Kyle's Grindr page shows the controversial star posing shirtless for a selfie with the caption: 'happy mardi gras darls! x'

His user name, Big Gold Mic, likely refers to his reputation as being Australia's man with the golden microphone due to the popularity of his show.

Kyle's account first surfaced online in 2012, while he was still working for 2day FM.

His manager was quick to set the record straight, however, telling The Daily Telegraph: '[Kyle]did it as a joke. He was filming for Australia's Got Talent and someone had Grindr on their phone, so he thought it would be funny to create a profile.'

Popular: His user name, Big Gold Mic, likely refers to his reputation as being Australia's man with the golden microphone due to the popularity of his show

Mister lover lover: Kyle has made no secret of the fact he once enjoyed a night of passion with a transsexual woman

Last year, Kyle revealed that he did once go 'the whole hog' with a transsexual person many years ago.

He apparently had no regrets about the one night stand, saying live on air: 'Don't forget... it was the year 2000 and all bets were off. The Olympics were on!'

'(I was) enjoying the fruits of Kings Cross, plus I had a ponytail and I was dressed head-to-toe in Colorado clothing,' he explained.It's the mansion best known for hosting Kat Mehajer's lavish wedding reception.

And My Kitchen Rules has utilised the multi-million dollar Kenthurst property named 'Longuevue' for its first 'Elimination House'.

The spacious abode was featured during the reality show's Monday night episode, which saw Sunshine Coast duo Ash and Matty get eliminated.

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Luxurious: My Kitchen Rules has utilised the multi-million dollar Kenthurst property named 'Longuevue' for its first 'Elimination House'

In addition to Kat Mehajer, who is the sister of controversial Sydney identity Salim Mehajer, the home has also being used as the set for videos starring Rebel Wilson.

According to realestate.com.au, the $3500 per night venue also hosted a season of another reality show, Beauty and the Geek.

MKR judges Manu Feildel and Pete Evans weren't hesitant to lavish praise on the estate.

Famaous: In addition to Kat Mehajer, who is the sister of controversial Sydney identity Salim Mehajer, the home has also being used as the set for videos starring Rebel Wilson

Popular: According to realestate.com.au , the $3500 per night venue also hosted a season of another reality show, Beauty and the Geek

Beloved: MKR judges Manu Feildel and Pete Evans weren't hesitant to lavish praise on the estate

'[The show has] always been about home cooking, so were stepping up to the ultimate home,' Manu described.

'Every time you walk into this house, one team will be going home,' Pete added.

The new location will house the Sudden Death Cook-Offs this year, instead of the usual kitchen headquarters.

'[The show has] always been about home cooking, so were stepping up to the ultimate home,' Manu described

'Every time you walk into this house, one team will be going home,' Pete added

Moving on up: The new location will house the Sudden Death Cook-Offs this year, instead of the usual kitchen headquarters

Monday night's episode of MKR saw Ash and Matty become the first contestants to be booted from this year's season.

The Queensland couple were sent packing after they failed to score more points than rivals Stella and Jazzey in the Sudden Death Cook-Off.

The two teams were pushed to the limit as they were sent to the Elimination House, where they had their cooking judged by newly-arrived teams.2017 China sales of multinational automakers

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- At the beginning of 2018, many multinational automakers have released their annual sales in China last year. According to the official reports from corresponding automakers, Volkswagen Group (VW) and General Motors (GM) all delivered over 4 million vehicles in Chinese market . Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, gathering the strength from three companies, was far behind VW and GM by China sales. Apart from Hyundai-Kia Group and Group PSA who suffered a substantial sales decrease in China, most of automakers achieved a sales growth with different degrees in the past year.

Volkswagen Group

According to Volkswagen Group China (VW China), the group, along with its two joint ventures, SAIC Volkswagen and FAW-Volkswagen, delivered nearly 4.18 million vehicles (including around 189,000 imported vehicles) to the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong last year, increasing 5.1% year on year.

As to brands, around 3.18 million vehicles under Volkswagen brand were delivered in 2017, with a year-on-year growth of 5.9%. Audi brand's annual sales saw a year-on-year increase of 1.1% to nearly 597,900 units. Especially, the December sales of Audi brand reached a record high of around 69,200 units, jumping 34.3% from a year earlier.

The brand of Skoda delivered 325,000 units throughout 2017, rising 2.5% year on year. In December, Skoda sales reached a record high of some 42,400 units, leaping 41.8% from the previous year.

General Motors



General Motors and its joint ventures sold a total of 4,040,789 vehicles in China in 2017, up 4.4% year on year. China was GM's largest retail market for the sixth year in a row. The company benefited from record domestic sales by the Cadillac, Buick and Baojun brands.

Buick, GM's best-selling brand in China, launched 7 models in China last year, including the GL6 MPV and Excelle GX wagon. The new product mix contributed a lot to the brand's outstanding annual sales.Cadillac had achieved double-digit sales growth for 22 consecutive months.



Baojun sales in 2017 jumped 45% to 996,629 units. Its strong momentum was led by the 510 small SUV, which was launched in February, 2017 and became the brand's best-selling model last year.

Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance

Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance (herein after as Alliance) reported that its member companies sold a combined total of 1,719,815 vehicles in China throughout 2017, increasing 6.2% year on year. China was once again the Alliance's largest market by sales.

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation sold 129,160 vehicles in China last year, jumped 56% from 2016. Thanks to strong demand for the locally produced Outlander, China became Mitsubishi Motors' largest market.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd achieved a year-on-year sales growth of 12.2% to 1,519,714 units in China, ranking second among Nissan's markets worldwide by annual sales, behind U.S. with a slight sales difference. Infiniti, Nissan's luxury vehicle brand, delivered 48,408 units in China with a year-on-year sales growth of 16.4%.



Although China was not on the top 10 list by sales of Groupe Renault, Renault delivered over 72,100 vehicles in China last year compared with 35,278 in 2016, thus doubling sales volumes in the space of one year.

Honda



The annual sales in China of Honda-branded vehicles and the self-owned brands of Honda's joint ventures (GAC Honda and Dongfeng Honda) totaled 1,441,307 units last year, up 15.5% from a year earlier. GAC Honda posted a year-on-year sales growth of 9.6% to 714,282 units and Dongfeng Honda reached an annual sales volume of 727,025 units, surging 22% compared with 2016. Both the joint ventures hit a record high in annual sales last year.

Acura, the luxury vehicle marque of Honda, delivered 16,348 vehicles in China throughout 2017, skyrocketing 100.8% year on year.

Toyota

Toyota Motor's sales in China totaled around 1.29 million vehicles, increasing 6.3% from the previous year. As regard to the sales performance of its two joint ventures, FAW-Toyota posted a year-on-year sales increase of 7.2% to around 706,100 units and the annual sales of GAC Toyota surpassed 440,000 units, edging up 0.7% year on year.

Lexus, Toyota Motor's luxury vehicle brand, boasted a year-on-year sales growth of 22% with 132,864 vehicles sold in China throughout 2017. Leading sales for the lineup was the ES sedan, followed by the NX & RX crossovers.

Ford

Ford Motor Company (Ford) sales in China totaled nearly 1.2 million vehicles in 2017, decreasing 6% from a year earlier.

Annual sales for Changan Ford Automobile (CAF) totaled around 827,000 vehicles, down 14% year over year. In addition, Jiangling Motor Corporation (JMC) sold some 293,000 vehicles in 2017, with a sales increase of 11% compared with 2016.

More than 54,000 vehicles under Lincoln brand were delivered in China last year, surging 66% year on year, which set a new record of annual sales in China.

Hyundai-Kia Group

Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, South Korea's largest automobile manufacturer, faced a sales plunge in China last year due to political tensions and a lack of new models.

According to the sales figure released by its two joint ventures, Beijing Hyundai saw its sales fallout of 28% year on year to nearly 820,000 vehicles last year, while Dongfeng Yueda Kia's sales slumped 45% from 2016 to 359,500 units, only completing 89.9% of its sales target.

BMW Group

BMW and MINI sales in Mainland China, the automaker's largest market, boasted a total annual sales volume of 594,388 units in 2017 with a year-on-year sales growth of 15.1%.

Last year, BMW 7 Series saw a robust sales growth of 45.3% compared with 2016. Meanwhile, around 143,000 units of BMW 3 Series were delivered in 2017, leaping 24.3% year on year.

Daimler AG



Daimler AG reported that Mercedes-Benz (including Smart brand), delivered a total of 610,965 units in China in 2017, soaring 25% year on year. This is also the first time for Mercedes-Benz achieving annual sales of over 600,000 units in a single market worldwide.



Mercedes-Benz brand handed over 587,868 units in China, jumping 25.9% from 2016. Although the annual sales of Smart brand suffered a year-on-year decrease of 6.5% worldwide last year, in China, this brand boasted a sales growth of 9.8% from a year earlier to 23, 097 units.

Groupe PSA

French automobile company Groupe PSA (PSA) suffered from a 37.4% year-on-year drop in auto sales in China and Southeast Asia. This unpleasant statistics may largely results from the vague product position and the unreasonable production capacity planning.

As to the French automaker's two joint ventures in China, Dongfeng Peugeot Citroen Automobile Company Ltd (DPCA) only sold around 378,000 vehicles in 2017, slumping 37.2% from the previous year and falling by nearly half compared with 705,000 units in 2015. The luxury vehicle brand DS, locally produced by Changan PSA Automobiles Co., Ltd (CAPSA), suffered a steep sales drop of 64% year on year to some 5,800 units in China in the past year. The brand also experienced a sales decrease for the second consecutive year.

Mazda



In 2017, Mazda sold 309,407 vehicles (excluding imported vehicles) into China's auto market, increasing 8.3% from 2016. It not only remarkably exceeded its initial annual target of 290,000 units, but also surpassed the annual sales volume of 300,000 units for the first time.

As regard to the sales performance of Mazda's joint ventures in China, Changan Mazda's 2017 sales exceeded 180,000 units and FAW-Mazda sold around 124,000 units last year, up 35.7% year on year.

FCA Group

GAC FCA, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.'s (FCA Group) only joint venture in China, delivered a total of 222,332 vehicles last year, jumping 23.6% year on year. Meanwhile, the company had achieved a sales increase for 25 consecutive months since December 2015.

Three locally-produced models under Jeep brand, Renegade, Cherokee and Compass, had annual sales exceeding 200,000 units in total last year, shooting up by 57% compared with 2016. These three SUV models were main forces driving the company's substantial sales growth.

Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) delivered a record high of 146,399 vehicles in China in the past year, up 23% from the previous year. The automaker's China sales accounted for nearly 25% of its total sales worldwide which made China become the company's largest market.

In 2017, Jaguar sold 42,660 units in China, surging 74% year on year, hitting a record high in annual sales. Land Rover annual sales reached 103,739 units, exceeding 100,000 units for the first time.

Volvo Cars

Volvo Cars, the premium car maker, sold a total of 114,410 units in China last year, jumping 25.8% year on year. The record performance in China, Volvo's largest market, contributed a lot to the group's sales increase in Asia Pacific region with 152,668 vehicles delivered there in 2017.He's the Australian supermodel known for his carefree antics and bad-boy persona.

And Jordan Barrett, 21, was up to his old tricks when he hit the beach for a day of cheeky horseplay with fellow socialite Elliot Isles in Sydney last Friday.

The runway sensation wasn't shy to showcase his famous physique during the outing, and was spotted pulling down his white board shorts to flash his bare behind.

Bottoms up! Jordan Barrett, 21, was up to his old tricks when he hit the beach for a day of cheeky horseplay with fellow socialite Elliot Isles in Sydney last Friday

Jordan couldn't help but beam with elation as he proudly unveiled his rear for onlookers, while pal Elliott stood by laughing with glee.

The pair made the most of their day in the sun, prancing barefoot in the crashing waves before taking a stroll down the rocky shore.

Jordan has never been shy to flaunt some flesh, having often appeared nude in racy Instagram snaps in the past.

That's a bit cheeky! The runway sensation wasn't shy to showcase his famous physique during the outing, and was spotted pulling down his white board shorts to flash his bare behind

Wild and free! Jordan couldn't help but beam with elation as he proudly unveiled his rear for onlookers, while pal Elliott stood by laughing with glee

Daring to bare! Jordan has never been shy to flaunt some flesh, having often appeared nude in racy Instagram snaps in the past

Slicking his blond mane back from his face, glamazon Jordan completed his look with a series of bohemian-inspired bangles, several layered gold necklaces and an array of gold rings.

A sprinkling of delicate forearm tattoos were also visible, including one that read: '0% Interest' and another that read: 'Psycho'.

Jordan has certainly been living the life of luxury since being discovered at age 14 by a model scout working for international agency IMG.

It's fashion, darling! Slicking his blond mane back from his face, glamazon Jordan completed his look with a series of bohemian-inspired bangles, several layered gold necklaces and an array of gold rings

Inked: A sprinkling of delicate forearm tattoos were also visible, including one that read: '0% Interest' and another that read: 'Psycho'

Beach babe! The pair made the most of their day in the sun, prancing barefoot in the crashing waves before taking a stroll down the rocky shore

The chance meeting took place when he was caught stealing matches from a convenience store in his hometown of Byron Bay on the New South Wales coast.

Jordan told New York Magazine about the incident: 'I wanted to have a cigarette, but I couldn't get a lighter because apparently you have to be over 18, so I decided I was gonna take matches from the counter.'

Taking the modelling industry by storm, the genetically-blessed star has graced the runway for Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino and Versace.

Jordan's appeal lies beyond the catwalk, having been linked to the likes of 'it' girls Bella Hadid, Hailey Baldwin, Sofia Richie, Megan Blake Irwin, Lara Stone and Sahara Ray.

Rise to fame: Jordan has certainly been living the life of luxury since being discovered at age 14 by a model scout working for international agency IMGHe rejected her on Sunday and took her back on Monday on what can only be described as the most controversial seaons's of Married At First Sight yet.

And Dean Wells had an amusing explanation for Tracey Jewel as to why their expectations for 'marriage' differ during a chat to get their bond back on track.

Dean 39, told Tracey, 34, Sydneysiders often engage in open relationships, leaving the Perth marketing consultant gobsmacked.

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Swingin': Dean Wells had an amusing explanation for Tracey Jewel on MAFS on Monday as to why their expectations for 'marriage' differ during a chat to get their bond back on track

'Relationships are different in Perth and Sydney,' he explained to Tracey in bed the morning after they moved in together, adding that in Sydney, 'everyone cheats'.

Instead of questioning his broad affirmation, Tracey conceded she previously wasn't aware of this suggested phenomenon.

'Im not from Sydney,' she conceded. 'Until you explained that to me I honestly had no idea.'

'Im not from Sydney,' she conceded. 'Until you explained that to me I honestly had no idea'

Tracey took to Instagram to ask her growing followers their thoughts on Dean's geographical explanation for his approach to love.

'Open relationships are a Sydney thing? Really?' she asked in the caption of a snap of the duo alongside the hashtags 'confused' and 'keeping options open'.

'What kind of idiot goes on a marriage show to find an open relationship? Hes a dumbass!' offered one supporter in the comments section.

'Open relationships are a Sydney thing? Really?' she asked in the caption of a snap of the duo alongside the hashtags 'confused' and 'keeping options open'

'I dont understand why he went on MAFS. If he wants an open relationship, he isn't ready for marriage!' noted another fan.

One user wasn't so forgiving, suggesting Tracey herself might have given Dean the hint she was open to a multi-person situation.

'Maybe he got that idea after she blurted out that shed had a threesome,' they wrote.

'I dont understand why he went on MAFS. If he wants an open relationship, he isn't ready for marriage!' noted another fan

The reality show couple wasted no time getting intimate on Monday, after Dean told Tracey he wanted to 'leave' her during the commitment ceremony the night before.

After seemingly patching things up, Dean was then filmed developing a texting relationship with co-star Davina Rankin, 26, who is 'married' to Ryan Gallagher.

Dean and Davina are seen meeting up at a restaurant on Tuesday's episode, leading to Dean admitting he 'should have' been matched with her instead of Tracey.The future of NSW RSL is set to be revealed following last year's public inquiry into the organisation's misuse of funds.

The inquiry was set up under the Charitable Fundraising Act by the NSW government after the organisation's former president Don Rowe was accused of, and later admitted to, using its funds for private expenditure.

Public hearings led by Patricia Bergin SC in September and October heard from Mr Rowe and dozens of other RSL members and legal advisers.

Ms Bergin handed down her findings to NSW Better Regulation Minister Matthew Kean two weeks ago and the state government will address the media on Monday morning.

Minister for Veterans Affairs David Elliott and RSL NSW President James Brown will also make statements.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has previously said she will deal with any recommendations made.Kevin Rudd has accused Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull of inconsistency in his approach to Australia's relationship with China, saying that it's the opposite of what's needed.

The former prime minister pointed out Mr Turnbull - then opposition leader - would regularly attack him for apparently being too hostile towards China.

At the same time, he took what Mr Rudd believed was a "deeply accommodationist view" on matters such as political donations and the involvement of Chinese telco Huawei in the national broadband network.

"Now it seems, for a range of domestic political factors concerning (former Labor senator Sam) Dastyari and others, he's lurched considerably in the reverse direction," Mr Rudd told ABC radio on Monday.

"It's consistency which is required over time, not simply a massive chop and change depending on the political circumstances."

Mr Rudd welcomed the appointment of US Pacific Commander Admiral Harry Harris as the new American ambassador to Australia, saying he was someone who knew the wider region well.

But he cautioned the Turnbull government faced a big challenge in fully engaging with the US on security challenges in the region, particularly those involving China and North Korea, while always reflecting an Australian view.The Trump administration wants the International Space State to be run by private industry, according to a report in the Washington Post.

The report says a NASA document indicates the White House plans to withdraw funding for the ISS after 2024 and turn the station over to the private sector.

"The decision to end direct federal support for the ISS in 2025 does not imply that the platform itself will be deorbited at that time - it is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform," the document states.

The US has reportedly spent nearly $US100 billion ($A140 billion) to build and operate the ISS.

The report comes amid increasing private involvement in space exploration and transport, led by companies like Elon Musk's SpaceX which recently launched the Falcon Heavy, the world's most powerful working rocketOne Nation leader Pauline Hanson has revived her attacks on taxpayer money being spent on indigenous Australians, drawing criticism from Labor.

On the day the federal government delivered its annual Closing the Gap report, and a day before the 10th anniversary of Kevin Rudd's formal apology to the stolen generation, the Queensland senator returned to one of her most controversial talking points from her first stint in parliament.

"It is something I will be seeking to get involved in and to expose for what it is," Senator Hanson told reporters in Canberra on Monday.

"I said 20 years ago, I see it as an Aboriginal industry that's ripping off the taxpayers' dollars - and it still is."

Her views on indigenous affairs are broadly condemned on both sides of politics.

"Senator Hanson needs to have a good look not only at the statistics on paper but actually going out and meeting communities and seeing the conditions that people are forced to live in," indigenous Labor MP Linda Burney said.

"The most important thing in terms of Aboriginal health is listening to Aboriginal people."

The opposition has announced a future Labor government would create a compensation fund for victims of the stolen generations as well as hold a summit about first nations children within its first 100 days.

Ms Burney also responded to comments from Indigenous Health Minister Ken Wyatt that an indigenous voice to parliament could be possible via legislation, rather than being enshrined in the constitution.

"If the pathway for a voice to parliament is through legislation then we will be very happy to work with the government on this," she said.

But Labor's position was clear that there needed to be recognition of indigenous people in the constitution.

Liberal MP Melissa Price said the views of her indigenous colleague Mr Wyatt were valid and came from a deep understanding.

"I personally would like us to focus more on getting more House of Representative and Senate indigenous politicians," she said.

Earlier, indigenous Labor senator Pat Dodson said whatever the method, Aboriginal leaders needed to be involved in co-designing the legislation.

"There's no merit in simply leaving indigenous leaders at the door and excluding them from the real action," he told ABC radio.

"Don't dilly-dally any further."Melbourne's annual Moomba Festival has named its 'monarchs' as broadcast personality Chrissie Swan and kids entertainer Jimmy Giggle.

The pair, who will be the public faces of the festival, were announced on Monday by acting Lord Mayor Arron Wood with more than 80,000 expected to attend the annual parade.

"We're really proud of Melbourne and we want people with kids to just get out of the house and do something ... get on a train and just do it and have an adventure," 'queen' Chrissie Swan told reporters.Nick Xenophon's push to ban the importation of flammable aluminium cladding reeks of "rank populism", a government senator has warned.

While Mr Xenophon is no longer in parliament, his private senator's bill remains and his replacement Rex Patrick took up the fight in the upper house on Monday.

The legislation acts on recommendations from a Labor-dominated Senate committee that called for an urgent ban on the importation, sale and use of polyethylene-core aluminium composite panels after 71 people died in a London public housing tower fire in June.

"We cannot under any circumstances bear the tragedy that occurred in London with the Grenfell Tower," Senator Patrick told parliament.

"We must prevent any risk of that happening here."

But Liberal senator Jane Hume said banning a legitimate product was neither effective nor practical.

She said most Australian businesses were using the products for signage and interior design rather than cladding.

"It's ill-considered and knee-jerk politics with significant unintended consequences and to some extent does wreak of rank populism," Senator Hume said.

"We should be managing the importation of cladding, not banning it."

Labor frontbencher Kim Carr said more needed to be done to make people on building sites accountable.

"The Australian building code has so many holes these days that you could actually fly a squadron of F18s through it," he said after declaring the opposition's in-principle support for the ban.

The Greens backed the Nick Xenophon Team bill, with Senator Lee Rhiannon saying it was essential to save lives.

"You feel we're on the verge of more tragedies in this country where people are burnt to death," Senator Rhiannon said.

"What we've heard from the government today will potentially cost lives."

Debate on the legislation has been adjourned.Workers at a WA coal mine are keen to get back on the job with the state's longest-running coal industry dispute looking set to end this week.

About 30 Australian Manufacturing Worker's Union members from the Griffin Coal mine in Collie gathered in front of the Fair Work Commission offices in Perth on Monday, anxiously waiting for it to make a decision which would allow them back to work after more than six months off the job.

Workers voted to accept a new enterprise agreement with Griffin on Friday after 180 days of action following the cancellation of their original contract in August 2016.Older Australians with muscle and joint pain shouldn't waste their time seeking a prescription for opioid medication to east their pain, new research suggests.

A University of Sydney study, published in the Journal of Pain, has shown that opioids provide patients 60 years and older with musculoskeletal pain little benefit, while significantly increasing their risk of serious side effects.

Researchers reviewed the efficacy and safety of prescription opioids across 24 international randomised controlled trials, comparing the effects of opioids to placebo.

While opioids are one of the most common types of medication offered to patients with chronic knee, hip or low pack pain, the study found they have a "small" or no clinical effect on reducing pain and improving function.

"Patients experienced around a seven per cent decrease in pain compared to placebo pills, which is considered too small to be of clinical importance. Only small improvements on physical function was found," said author Associate Professor Manuela Ferreira, senior researcher at the Institute of Bone and Joint Research, Kolling Institute.

It was also found older people taking opioids for musculoskeletal pain were almost three times more likely to have an adverse event associated with treatment.

The most common effects were nausea, constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, headache and dry mouth.

"The impact of these side effects on the older patient can be very significant, leading to more serious events such as falls and confusion," Professor Ferreira said.

For this age group, Professor Ferreira recommends they try exercise and physical therapies to manage their pain.

"For this specific population, the benefits may not compensate for the risks that opioids can cause," she said.

"Concerns about the safety of these medicines and the risk of overuse and opioid-related adverse events should also be considered by doctors when prescribing those medicines."City News has video and a report from the explosion and fire in Mississauga earlier Sunday. Then, a compelling piece from ABC on the Monarch Butterfly winter refuge high in the mountains of Mexico. Lovely. Below that, Israel shoots down an Iranian drone launched from Syria and lastly, a look ahead to the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show this week at which some 100 dogs from Canada will compete.











Five people have been arrested after the seizure of weapons and drugs in early-morning raids in Melbourne's west.

The three men, aged between 44 and 49, and two 54-year-old women - all Albanvale residents - were charged with a range of weapons, explosives and drug offences after police executed drug search warrants at three properties on Monday morning.

Knives, a firearm, along with cannabis and ecstasy tablets were confiscated, and two of the group have been bailed while three others will face Sunshine Magistrates Court later on Monday.A Victorian woman with a developmental disorder who spent 18 months in custody despite being unfit to stand trial will have her circumstances investigated by the ombudsman.

The 39-year-old woman spent a year-and-a-half in prison waiting for her case to be finalised because suitable accommodation and community support couldn't be found, the Office of the Public Advocate revealed last year.

"We are investigating whether her conditions in prison were humane and met her complex needs, and whether appropriate steps were taken by authorities to find her more suitable accommodation," Victorian ombudsman Deborah Glass said on Monday.A little boy likely died from shaken baby syndrome leading to "widespread damage" to his brain in late 2013, a Melbourne court has been told.

Andrew Lincoln Burrow, who was not in custody, faced Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday for a committal hearing to determine if he will stand trial over the child's death.

Forensic pathologist Linda Iles told the court that although the child's cause of death was brain injury, he lacked other possible shaken baby indicators including bruises, broken bones, skeletal trauma or brain stem or cervical cord injuries.Arrest warrants for Clive Palmer's nephew are not worth the paper they're printed on unless he voluntarily returns to Australia or is charged with a criminal offence, legal sources claim.

Australian authorities were powerless to act on two existing warrants for Clive Mensink's arrest, despite reporters finally tracking him down in Bulgaria last week.

The Federal Court issued the warrants last year after Mr Mensink failed to turn up and answer liquidators' questions about the collapse of his uncle's Queensland Nickel business.

Mr Mensink was the sole registered director of the company when it folded with debts of $300 million and the loss of hundreds of jobs at its Townsville refinery. But he left Australia in June 2016, not long after the collapse.

He had since been travelling the world, frustrating two groups of liquidators who desperately want to grill him about how the company was run.

NewsCorp reporters cornered Mr Mensink in Bulgaria's capital, Sofia, last week as he left a cinema where he'd seen the film 50 Shades Freed with his Bulgarian girlfriend, Gabriela Konstantinova.

But knowing where he is doesn't change anything, legal sources said.

Australian authorities cannot enforce the existing arrest warrants in offshore jurisdictions because they involve a civil, not a criminal, matter.

Pursuing extradition would only become an option if Mr Mensink were to be charged with a serious criminal offence that attracts a jail sentence of two or more years.

ASIC, which has the power to lay such charges, had been investigating the Queensland Nickel collapse. That investigation was ongoing, the corporate regulator confirmed on Monday.

ASIC commissioner John Price confirmed the existence of a probe into Queensland Nickel and other entities associated with Mr Palmer at a Senate estimates hearing in October 2016.

Mr Palmer and Mr Mensink denied any wrongdoing.

Mr Palmer repeatedly said he didn't know where his nephew was and cast doubt on whether the man photographed in Bulgaria by reporters was actually his nephew.

Mr Mensink's lawyers last year announced their intention to appeal the arrest warrants.

They argued there was no proof Mr Mensink was given notice of having to front liquidators in court, and that there was no basis for the judge to have found he lacked a reasonable excuse for not showing up.

Mr Mensink was ordered to pay a $70,000 surety for the appeal to proceed, after Judge Michael Wigney found there was a risk he would not pay any adverse costs that might be awarded against him in that case.

AAP sought comment from Mr Palmer on Monday.An elderly man has pleaded guilty to sending a bullet to Barnaby Joyce's electorate office during the New England by-election.

Neville Newman, 74, entered the plea in Armidale Local Court on Monday after he was charged with one count of using a carriage service to menace, harass and/or offend and one count of stalking/intimidation.

The bullet was sent in an envelope which was opened by a staff member in the Tamworth electorate office in early November last year, NSW police have previously said.

Mr Joyce at the time said he was disappointed his six-week re-election campaign had been dogged by stalkers and threats.

"We're now starting to see in Australia rather serious threats and not just pretend threats - and that's just an incredible disappointment for all of us," he said.

"It's not something I thought we'd ever have to deal with in our nation."

Newman is expected to be sentenced at the same court on April 23.

The 74-year-old will remain on bail on the condition he does not contact any state or federal MPs or their associates.The pilot of a light plane that lost power over southwestern Sydney "acted decisively" when crash landing in a small paddock, seriously injuring himself and one passenger, the air safety watchdog says.

The Piper PA-28 had just taken off from Camden Airport and was headed for the Blue Mountains on a sightseeing trip when its engine cut out in April 2017, an Australian Transport Safety Bureau report says.

The pilot, aged 24 at the time, said the engine "misfired and coughed" shortly before experiencing partial power loss.

The pilot attempted to make a slow turn before the engine stopped responding to throttle changes and a stall warning briefly sounded, the ATSB found in a report released on Monday.

The safety bureau says the pilot "acted decisively" in deciding to crash land in a nearby paddock when it became apparent there was insufficient engine power to return to the runway.

The plane's wing clipped a tree as it approached the field before it hit the ground and spun around, seriously injuring both the pilot and his then 23-year-old female passenger.

The pilot was treated at the scene for facial, head and limb injuries while the woman was treated for a limb injury, a NSW Ambulance spokesperson said at the time.

A police helicopter crew helped both of them evacuate the plane and treated them for injuries before they were taken to hospital.

The ATSB report found the plane had not been used for three months up until two days before the crash. It had been flown for just over six hours in total in four months.

The bureau could not identify any specific fault that contributed to the crash.Queensland 17-year-olds charged with criminal offences will be treated as juveniles from Monday, while those already serving time are likely to remain behind bars in adult facilities.

Child Safety and Youth Minister Di Farmer has announced 17-year-olds entering the justice system would be treated as juveniles under 2016 reforms that bring Queensland into line with the rest of Australia.

However, the process of moving 17-year-olds currently held in adult facilities to youth detention centres will be stalled due to a spike in detainee numbers, she says.A Melbourne surgeon who died after a fatal one-punch attack had just told off his alleged assailant for smoking outside the hospital, a court has been told.

Joseph Esmaili, 22, is facing the first day of his committal hearing, charged with the manslaughter of Patrick Pritzwald-Stegmann near the entrance of Box Hill Hospital on May 30.

Mr Pritzwald-Stegmann had finished his shift when he saw a group of people smoking in the non-smoking area outside the hospital, crown prosecutor Mark Gibson SC said.

He went back inside and asked reception to call for security.

Esmaili, who was among the group of smokers, then entered the hospital where he had a confrontation with Mr Pritzwald-Stegmann.

CCTV footage played to the court shows the two men talking closely before the accused launches a single punch, felling Mr Pritzwald-Stegmann who hit his head on the tiled floor, unconscious.

Mr Gibson said the surgeon had just told Esmaili the area where he was smoking outside the hospital was a non-smoking area and requested he leave.

During the confrontation, the surgeon was also heard saying to the accused: "Did you just spit in my face?" before the accused man told him: "I need you to suck my dick".

Witness Darren Haynes said Mr Pritzwald-Stegmann's fall made a "huge thud".

"I saw and heard the noise of a ten-pin bowling ball hitting the floor, " he told the court.

The hearing continues.A drunken knife-wielding Australia Post worker was advancing on two plain clothes police officers when they opened fire, killing him, a NSW inquest has been told.

Barrister Rob Ranken told Newcastle Local Court on Monday how the officers, Constables Jamie Taylor and Darren Hamilton, pleaded with agitated postal worker Stephen Hodge, 51, to drop the box-cutter he was carrying in his right hand before they fired five shots.

Mr Ranken is the counsel assisting acting state coroner Teresa O'Sullivan who's holding an inquest into Mr Hodge's death on the afternoon of September 9, 2015, at the Warners Bay post office car park.

He said the two shots fired by Const Taylor hit Mr Hodge in the upper chest and abdomen which caused his death.

Const Hamilton fired three shots. Two of the bullets hit Mr Hodge having a "minor contributing role" in his death, Mr Ranken told the court.

One of the three shots fired by Const Hamilton missed Mr Hodge.

Mr Ranken said police had been called to the scene after reports the mentally-ill Mr Hodge had been threatening to stab his manager Brendan Hogan.

Const Taylor was the first to confront Mr Hodge, who'd been moaning and groaning and talking to himself after slashing his wrist in the rear of the post office car park after 3pm.

Mr Ranken said Const Taylor, with his gun drawn, told Mr Hodge: "Put the knife on the ground right now."

Mr Hodge ignored that direction and raised the knife head high and moved towards the two officers.

Stepping backwards, Const Taylor told Mr Hodge: "Put it down, mate. Don't make me have to shoot you."

Mr Ranken said Const Taylor repeatedly pleaded with Mr Hodge to put the knife down, telling him the officers would have to shoot him if he didn't do what they asked.

At one stage Const Taylor told him: "Come on, mate, stop mucking around. You don't want to do this. Put it down, mate. We're here to help you."

Mr Ranken said Mr Hodge started to move towards Const Taylor in a "striding manner" before backing the officer into a corner against a gate.

Continuing to yell "put it down, put it down" both officers opened fire as Mr Hodge advanced.

Mr Ranken said it had been just 40 seconds from the time the officers had arrived to confront Mr Hodge to when they opened fire. The inquest continues.Four decades after a bomb blast ripped through a Sydney street, the city will pause to remember the lives lost and reflect on how one of Australia's first tastes of terror changed the nation.

Garbage collectors Alex Carter and Arthur Favell were killed when a bomb, hidden in a rubbish bin, was loaded into their truck's compactor outside the Hilton Hotel on February 13, 1978.

Police officer Paul Burmistriw was guarding the entrance of the hotel when he was mortally wounded.

He died from his injuries nine days later.

The assumed targets were then prime minister Malcolm Fraser and 11 visiting heads of state who were staying at the hotel for a Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

The bombing triggered numerous conspiracy theories as suspects from a Hindu sect, Ananda Marga, were implicated, charged and cleared in the following years.

To this day the identity of the culprit behind the attacks remains a mystery.

The 40th anniversary memorial will be held at the Hilton on Tuesday morning with dignitaries including NSW Police Minister Troy Grant and Police Commissioner Mick Fuller pausing to reflect alongside bomb victim retired senior constable Terry Griffiths.

Police Association of NSW president Scott Weber said Constable Burmistriw's death was "a horrible and stark reminder of the inherent dangers and risks involved in police work".

"Constable Burmistriw paid the ultimate sacrifice," he told AAP in a statement on Monday.

"Losing a member of the police family is always difficult, the Burmistriw family are not alone in remembering that awful day or their loss, the thoughts and prayers of police officers across the country will be with them."

Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, speaking at the 30th anniversary memorial 10 years ago, said the bombing had been a "shocking jolt" which thrust Australians into a world that was less safe and comfortable than before.

"For the families (of those killed) that jolt was experienced at a far more visceral level," Ms Moore said.

"Each of them lost a husband, a father, a son or a brother - their friends lost a mate who would never be replaced."A West Australian high school has backed down from plans to censor its booklist for so-called "inappropriate" material following intense community backlash, including from the author of the highly acclaimed novel Jasper Jones.

The reading list at the regional Georgiana Molloy Anglican School in Busselton was under review, including the works of William Shakespeare, after parents complained about sexual and offensive content.

Author Craig Silvey said he appreciated the school wished to protect children from harmful material but argued literature helped students create empathy by showing the world from another perspective.

"I would strongly advance the case that the foremost endeavour of any senior school is to produce students who are capable of navigating an adult world once they have graduated," Mr Silvey wrote in a post on Facebook.

A spokeswoman for the Christian school told AAP the issue had been "blown out of proportion".

She said the school's principal Ted Kosicki had spoken to parents about the ban and claimed the review had already been conducted, with no books currently flagged for censorship.

"I don't think that (Craig Silvey) has anything to worry about," she said.

Mr Silvey urged Mr Kosicki to trust his staff to guide students through their material so it was not "too distressing or overwhelming."

"Most of all, trust your students. They're stronger, wiser and more capable than you might presume," he said.An indigenous Townsville man who died in custody was spear-tackled and manhandled by police who knew he had a heart condition, according to his family's lawyer.

The death of Trevor King, who died early on Saturday after police were called by wife Regina, is being investigated by ethical standards command and Queensland's Crime and Corruption Commission.

In a statement to the media, lawyer Stewart Levitt says Ms King told police her 39-year-old husband had been talking of suicide but also made them aware he had a heart condition before he was "trounced".

Mr Levitt called it an "eggshell skull" case and says police need to be better trained to deal with those people who are mentally impaired as well as indigenous.

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.

Multicultural Mental Health Australia www.mmha.org.au.

Local Aboriginal Medical Service details available from www.bettertoknow.org.au/AMSForeign Minister Julie Bishop insists Australia must continue to help the Iraqi government "win the peace" otherwise there's a risk of armed groups morphing into Islamic State 2.0.

Ms Bishop has travelled to Kuwait, in the Middle East for a ministerial meeting on countering Islamic State and an international conference on rebuilding Iraq.

Iraq's prime minister declared victory over the militant group late last year.

But there were still Islamic State fighters in contested or ungoverned regions in Syria, posing a threat.

Ms Bishop believes some IS members are seeking to hide among the general population in Iraq and return to the tactics of insurgency.

"To break the cycle of violence, it is vital that the Iraqi government wins the peace as effectively as it has won the war," Ms Bishop will say in a speech in Kuwait.

"Failure to do so runs the very real risk that they will turn to armed groups that could morph into ISIL 2.0."

Australia last year stumped up a $100 million stabilisation package for Iraq.

"We must focus on the conditions that led to the rise and spread of Islamic State and extremist ideologies, and work to prevent them gaining the momentum that brought this coalition together in 2014," Ms Bishop will say.

Australia last month brought home its six Super Hornet fighter jets after ceasing air strike operations against IS in Iraq and Syria.

Australian and New Zealand soldiers have trained more than 30,000 Iraqi troops in the fight against Islamic State militants since 2015.An allegedly unlicensed and drunk woman accused of driving down a popular Brisbane River walkway while more than three times the alcohol limit is due to front court.

The 40-year-old was charged after CCTV appeared to capture her driving between cyclists and groups of people ambling along the timber boardwalk at South Bank on the evening of January 17.

After being stopped by police she was breath tested and allegedly blew 0.153.

The woman, who had driven about 80km from Atkinsons Dam, near Esk, was later charged with high-range drink driving, driving without a licence and driving an unregistered vehicle.

She is listed to appear at Brisbane Magistrate Court on Tuesday.Sydney will on Tuesday pause to remember the lives lost when a bomb exploded outside the city's Hilton Hotel 40 years ago, one of the country's first domestic terror attacks.

The device, hidden inside a bin, was loaded into a rubbish truck on February 13, 1978, detonating when it was crushed.

Garbage collectors Alex Carter and Arthur Favell were killed and the blast also fatally wounded police officer Paul Burmistriw, who died nine days later.

While the intended target was believed to have been then-prime minister Malcolm Fraser and 11 visiting heads of state - in Australia for the first Commonwealth Heads of Government Regional Meeting (CHOGRM) - the culprit remains a mystery.

On Tuesday, a wreath will be laid outside the Hilton and those gathered will hear from Senior Constable Terry Griffiths, who was injured in the blast.

Police Minister Troy Grant, Police Commissioner Mick Fuller and Opposition Leader Luke Foley will be among the attendees.Australia's gutted foreign aid program will be rebuilt if federal Labor wins the next election.

The opposition's foreign affairs spokeswoman Penny Wong is set to announce a pledge to increase aid investment beyond current levels during a speech to an aid conference on Tuesday.

Since the coalition came to power in 2013 more than $11 billion has been cut from Australia's aid program.

Aid spending has sunk to its lowest level on record, 22 cents for every $100 of national income.

"These cuts are a source of international embarrassment for Australia, and are at odds with the generous spirit of the Australian people," Senator Wong will tell the conference at the Australian National University in Canberra.

"Labor will, to the fullest extent that financial circumstances allow, rebuild and grow the Australian aid program in a timely manner."

Senator Wong did not nominate a dollar figure, citing a need to look at the budget circumstances post-election.

She said it was in the national interest to combat global poverty which helps support security and stability in the region.The RSL NSW concedes it must rebuild trust with the public after a former judge recommended past president Don Rowe be investigated by police for rorting the charity.

Mr Rowe admitted using the organisation's money for his own purposes during last year's public inquiry and James Brown, the current president, says the previous leadership team was "rotten to the core".

Former NSW Supreme Court judge Patricia Bergin SC recommended the state government refer all evidence relating to Mr Rowe's expenses to NSW Police.

Mr Brown said the charity had "lost its way".

"The critical thing for us is to rebuild trust with the public and I think we've gone a long way towards doing that," he told reporters on Monday.

Mr Rowe spent more than $465,000 on his RSL credit card between 2009 and 2014 for his mortgage, family phone bills, flights and meals, the inquiry revealed.

Better Regulation Minister Matt Kean confirmed the matter had been referred to police and said the government supported efforts to "throw the book" at Mr Rowe for his "shameful and disgraceful behaviour".Barnaby Joyce is facing pressure on two fronts as Labor pushes him on his new infrastructure portfolio while he faces more questions about his partner's appointment to two political jobs.

The deputy prime minister has been facing questions over how his partner and former staff member Vikki Campion left his office last year to take a job with Nationals Senator Matthew Canavan, and then with the party's whip Damian Drum.

Labor also upped the pressure on Mr Joyce on Monday, quizzing him about the decision to spend 40 per cent of the national infrastructure budget in NSW, leaving other states short.

Mr Joyce appeared to stumble on some infrastructure answers in Monday's Question Time, as he included investment in a Sydney airport and inland rail as part of an answer about Tasmanian spending.

"Isn't the infrastructure minister simply not up to the job that he has been given?" opposition infrastructure spokesman Anthony Albanese said.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull also told question time it was up to the Nationals how they allocated their personal staff positions in their share of the government's overall staffing pool.

"The distribution of those staff members between Nationals offices is a matter for the National Party," Mr Turnbull told parliament.

"At no time did the Nationals fill all vacant staffing positions."

Ms Campion is now pregnant with Mr Joyce's child - his fifth - after he split last year from his wife Natalie, the mother of his four children.

Mr Turnbull said Mr Joyce made it clear Ms Campion's employment was not discussed with him or the prime minister's office.

However, the prime minister's office "has an administrative role in informing the Department of Finance of changes", Mr Turnbull said.

A spokesman for the prime minister told AAP Mr Joyce had not breached ministerial standards in regard to the employment of family and partners because Ms Campion was not the deputy prime minister's "partner" at the time of her appointments.

Asked if voters would buy the excuse that Ms Campion wasn't Mr Joyce's partner, Treasurer Scott Morrison said it was difficult to untangle.

"He can't have two partners at the same time and he was obviously still married," he told ABC TV.

"Trying to untangle those sorts of very personal issues and when things start and when things stop I don't think is clear in the most often innocent of circumstances."The Nick Xenophon Team has helped the federal government expand its cashless welfare card trial, backing down from the minor party's opposition to broadening the scheme.

The card will now be rolled out in Western Australia's Goldfields region after the government secured crossbench support in the Senate on Monday night, paving the way for the legislation's passage

The government shelved plans to take the trial to Bundaberg and Hervey Bay in Queensland, instead compromising on the single expansion site in WA.

The bill also secured a one-year extension to trial sites in Ceduna in South Australia and the East Kimberley region.

Labor opposed expanding the trial, saying there was insufficient evidence to justify expansion, while the Greens are against the card altogether.

"It looks like NXT are behaving like a sub-branch of the Liberal Party," Labor senator Doug Cameron told parliament.

But the government is confident there is enough evidence to show the card has been working to curb alcohol-fuelled violence and other social issues.

"The research found that the cashless debit card had been effective in reducing alcohol consumption and gambling, and it was also suggestive of a reduction in the use of illegal drugs," Liberal frontbencher Concetta Fierravanti-Wells said.

Under the trial, 80 per cent of a person's welfare payment is put onto a cashless debit card, which cannot be used to gamble or buy alcohol.

The remaining 20 per cent is put into a bank account and can be withdrawn as cash.A 26-year-old man's been charged following a fire and siege at a house in Oakhurst in Sydney's west.

Police were called to the home just before midnight on February 6 after reports a man had barricaded himself in a room.

A short while later, smoke was seen coming from the room and the family fled the premises.

The man was then seen on the roof of a neighbouring property, armed with a knife, where he allegedly made threats and threw tiles.

The man was arrested on February 7 when he jumped off the roof, and as he was being taken to hospital, it's alleged he bit an ambulance officer on the arm.

He was released from hospital into police custody on Monday and charged with property damage, assault and being armed.

He was given conditional bail to appear in Mount Druitt Local Court on March 7.A powerful bloc of American farmers and food producers is turning up pressure on US President Donald Trump to re-engage with Australia and other Trans-Pacific Partnership countries so they are not left in a substantial trade disadvantage.

The US Food and Agriculture Dialogue for Trade, representing 95 per cent of the US farming, ranching and food processing sector, painted a gloomy picture if they are left out of trade deals.

Mr Trump pulled the US out of the TPP just three days after moving into the White House last year, but Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Canada and the remaining seven Pacific Rim nations pushed ahead with the TPP and are expected to sign the agreement in March.

"Once this happens, our sector will be placed at a substantial disadvantage, as other countries gain entry into these markets at substantially lower tariffs and under preferential terms," the group wrote in the letter.

"Given the downturn in US farm prices and profitability that already is hurting rural America, the timing could not be worse.

"American food and agricultural producers and companies are facing significant barriers in these markets that could be addressed within the improved rules and higher standards through reengagement with the TPP countries."

The group added it would "welcome sharing our specific ideas and supporting your administration's efforts for reengaging with TPP countries in a manner that results in concrete gains for the United States".

Mr Trump, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland last month, surprisingly flagged the possibility of re-joining the TPP "if it is in the interests of all".Australia has been awarded more than $1 billion in production contracts for the F-35 joint strike fighter program, and the government wants more.

Australia's role in manufacturing parts to be fitted to every F-35 aircraft across the globe involves more than 50 companies sharing in production contracts and is expected to create 5000 jobs by 2023, Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne said on Tuesday.

"When I travel to the US in April I will be arguing for more work for Australia. We have the capability and we deserve the work, he said.Almost three-quarters of Australians want businesses forced to pass on a proportion of planned company tax cuts as a pay rise for workers.

The idea drew support from voting groups across the political divide, the Guardian-Essential survey released on Tuesday shows.

But a leading welfare advocate does not believe the Turnbull government should be pursuing corporate tax rate cuts or a flagged reduction in personal income taxes, arguing the budget can't afford it.

The Australian Council of Social Service, in its submission for the May budget, is calling for a $75 increase in weekly dole payments that would cost $3.2 billion in 2019/20.

That's opposed to the $65 billion for the entire 10-year tax plan for business and a further unquantified amount for the promised personal income tax cuts.

"It would be unconscionable to pursue tax cuts at the same time as slashing essential benefits and services affecting people on the lowest incomes, particularly when the budget is still in a weak position," ACOSS chief executive Cassandra Goldie says.

The business cuts appear likely to be blocked in the upper house, with One Nation and Nick Xenophon Team senators already indicating they will join Labor and the Greens in opposing government legislation.

Shadow treasurer Chris Bowen is still questioning how the business tax cuts will be funded.

"You can't just say it's in the budget so it's paid for," he told ABC radio.

"If I just said 'Oh, it's paid for because it's in our budget but I'm not going to tell you the particular measures that will pay for it", well I'd be drummed out of the business and so should (Treasurer) Scott Morrison be if he's going to try that sort of sophistry."

Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young said there was no guarantee that giving big business tax cuts was going to lift wages.

"This is the biggest furphy," she told reporters in Canberra.

But Finance Minister Mathias Cormann is sticking to his guns.

"The only way we can secure more jobs and higher wages instead of increases in the unemployment rate is by making sure that the businesses that have to pay for them ... have the best possible opportunity to be successful and profitable into the future," he told reporters.Bill English has quit as New Zealand's National Party leader and will leave parliament at the end of the month.

The former prime minister made the announcement on Tuesday, following a week of speculation.

Flanked by senior National MPs and family members, English told reporters he believed resigning would give the party's next leader time to prepare for the next election.

He would leave parliament altogether at the end of the month, after 27 years, to "embark on new personal and professional challenges".

The decision followed a meeting with the party's caucus in the morning.This NASA handout photo obtained March 29, 2017 shows Flight Engineer Thomas Pesquet of the European Space Agency floating outside the International Space Station during a spacewalk

Could the International Space Station become a commercial venture run by private industry?

That is the wish of the White House, which hopes to end funding for the costly program within a few years, The Washington Post reported Sunday.

The US plan, the paper said, involves privatizing the ISS, a low-orbit space station piloted by the US space agency NASA and developed jointly with its Russian counterpart.

The station has allowed international crews -- notably in collaboration with the Canadian, European and Japanese space agencies -- to pursue scientific research in the environment of a low Earth orbit.

"The decision to end direct federal support for the ISS in 2025 does not imply that the platform itself will be deorbited at that time," says an internal NASA document obtained by the Post. "It is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform."

"NASA will expand international and commercial partnerships over the next seven years in order to ensure continued human access to and presence in low Earth orbit," the document says.

A budget request to be issued Monday by the Trump administration will call for $150 million to be spent on the ISS in the 2019 fiscal year, and more in succeeding years, "to enable the development and maturation of commercial entities and capabilities which will ensure that commercial successors to the ISS... are operational when they are needed."

To ensure a smooth transition, the White House would ask the private sector to provide market analyses and development plans, the Post reported.

The plan is expected to face stiff opposition. The United States has already spent some $100 billion to launch, operate and support the orbital station.

Beginning during the presidency of George W. Bush (2001-2009), NASA has subcontracted certain ISS support operations, starting with the supply flights now carried out by the SpaceX and Orbital ATK companies -- a trend that gained speed during the Obama presidency.

It was not clear, however, how private companies might profit from taking over the aging station -- its first section was launched in 1998.

NASA did not immediately respond to requests for comment.A helicopter went down in Grand Canyon West, located in northwestern Arizona

Three British tourists have been killed in a US helicopter crash after the chopper went down in the Grand Canyon, Britain's foreign ministry said late Sunday.

A further three British people and the pilot were injured when the accident happened at around 5:20 pm (0020 GMT) on Saturday.

"We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on 10 February, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services," a spokeswoman for the foreign ministry told AFP.

Local media reported the Eurocopter EC130 helicopter, whose operator was unknown, was travelling on a tour.

Francis Bradley, Hualapai Nation police chief, said the chopper went down in Grand Canyon West, located in northwestern Arizona.

"The investigation is ongoing," Bradley told AFP on Saturday, adding that there was no information immediately available on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Allen Kenitzer, of the Federal Aviation Authority's Office of Communications, told AFP the aircraft sustained "substantial damage."

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash, he added.Kim Dotcom is accused of industrial-scale online piracy via Megaupload

Lawyers for Megaupload founder Kim Dotcom questioned the validity of the internet mogul's arrest Monday, claiming New Zealand authorities misled a judge to obtain a warrant.

More than six years after an armed police raid saw Dotcom arrested and his empire dismantled, the German national is still fighting extradition to the United States.

The legal battle reached the Court of Appeal in Wellington on Monday, where Dotcom's lawyers will attempt to overturn two previous court rulings that went against him.

The 44-year-old is accused of industrial-scale online piracy via Megaupload.

If extradited, Dotcom and his co-accused -- Finn Batato, Mathias Ortmann, Bram van der Kolk -- will face US charges of racketeering, fraud and money laundering carrying jail terms of up to 20 years.

The hearing that opened Monday is set to examine New Zealand's extradition laws in minute detail.

Barrister Grant Illingworth, representing Ortmann and van der Kolk, said New Zealand authorities had concealed crucial information when applying for an arrest warrant ahead of the January 2012 raid.

He said the application before a District Court judge failed to disclose that New Zealand's GCSB intelligence service illegally spied on Dotcom before police moved in.

Illingworth said the judge should have been given all relevant information.

"We say that there was misleading conduct at this stage because there was no reference to the fact that information had been gathered illegally by the GCSB," he said.

The then-prime minister John Key apologised to Dotcom when the spying was revealed in 2012, acknowledging that as a New Zealand resident the GCSB had no right to snoop on him.

Dotcom was not present for the hearing's opening day.

The appeal is expected to wrap up this week, although a decision from the three judges presiding over the case could take months.

Megaupload was an early example of cloud computing, allowing users to upload large files onto a server so others could easily download them.

At its height in 2011, Megaupload claimed to have 50 million daily users and account for four percent of the world's internet traffic.

The problem, according to an FBI indictment, was that many of the files shared were copyright-protected films and music.

It alleges Megaupload netted more than $175 million in criminal proceeds and cost copyright owners $500 million-plus by offering pirated content.

Dotcom and his co-accused maintain their innocence.

He has remained outspoken throughout his legal battle and last month marked the sixth anniversary of the raid on his Auckland mansion by announcing a multi-billion dollar damages claim against the New Zealand government.Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas, pictured here with Vladimir Putin in May 2017, is seeking the Russian president's support following Washington's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas visits Russia on Monday in a bid to secure Russian President Vladimir Putin's support following Washington's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The Palestinian leader was set to visit Moscow two weeks after a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Abbas has refused any contact with US President Donald Trump's administration since Washington's recognition of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital at the end of last year. Abbas is due to speak at the United Nations Security Council on February 20.

Palestinians see the US decision, which broke with years of international diplomacy, as a denial of their claim to East Jerusalem as the capital of an eventual Palestinian state.

Israel took control of East Jerusalem in the 1967 Six-Day War, annexed it and later declared it the indivisible capital of Israel.

The US Ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley, has accused Abbas of lacking the courage needed to forge a peace deal with Israel.

Abbas in turn has rejected any mediation by Washington in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and has promised his people to work towards full recognition of a Palestinian state by the United Nations.

Alexander Shumilin, a Middle East scholar at the Institute for US and Canadian Studies, called Abbas's visit "an attempt to cosy up to Russia, a consistent ally, and to stop Netanyahu leading Moscow astray during an improvement in Russia-Israeli ties".

Netanyahu visited Russia on January 29 and along with Putin attended a memorial ceremony at the Jewish museum in Moscow for the victims of Nazi camps. He took the opportunity to accuse Iran of wanting to "destroy" the Jewish state.

In turn, the Russian president likened antisemitism to "Russophobia" and said Russia and Israel were "cooperating closely", particularly against "attempts to falsify history".

- Chances 'close to zero' -

US President Donald Trump enraged Palestinians when he announced in December that the United States would recognise Jerusalem as the Israeli capital

For Shumilin, Monday's visit "is a necessary political gesture for Abbas but can do little in the practical sense".

"It is also definitely not worth expecting a breakthrough from this visit," he added.

In 2016 Russia offered to host one-on-one talks without preconditions between Abbas and Netanyahu but these never materialised.

In January, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov estimated that chances of resuming direct talks between the two sides in the current situation were "close to zero".

Lavrov also said "we understand the emotions" Palestinians feel towards Trump.

"We keep hearing in recent months that the US is about to publish some 'major deal' that... will satisfy everyone," he said. But he added that Russia "has not seen or heard of such a document or even any statement".

With relations between Washington and Moscow at a record low for the post-Cold War era, Abbas may be expecting that "Russia-US relations will get even worse and then Russia could do something to spite the US", Shumilin said.

On November 29, 2012, the United Nations designated Palestine as a non-member observer state after a vote by the General Assembly.

That enabled the Palestinians to join international organisations and the International Criminal Court, though they did not become a full UN member state.

Palestinian statehood is recognised by more than 130 countries.No caption

Adam Rippon said he would be prepared to meet US Vice President Mike Pence after making history on Monday when he became the first openly gay US man to compete at a Winter Games.

Rippon had criticised the choice of Pence as leader of the US delegation to the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics.

A report in USA Today last week suggested the 28-year-old had rejected an overture from the vice president to discuss Rippon's accusations that Pence supports gay conversion therapy

But after pumping the air in exhilaration following his free skate in the figure skating team event Rippon replied "Yes of course" when asked by AFP if he would accept a meeting with Pence.

The American vice president had sought to clear the air with the skater over his perceived homophobic stance when he tweeted his full support to Rippon last Thursday.

"@Adaripp I want you to know we are FOR YOU," Pence wrote. "Don't let fake news distract you. I am proud of you and ALL OF OUR GREAT athletes and my only hope for you and all of #TeamUSA is to bring home the gold. Go get 'em!"

Rippon was on cloud nine after his first appearance on ice in his words "finally becoming an Olympian".

"it felt worth the 28 year wait," he beamed."

The winner of the US men's title in 2016 reached his first US Olympic squad after finishing fourth in this year's trials.Jewellery and watchmaker Sean Yu creates watches made with a cement surface that are a huge hit with Taiwan's consumers

With watches made from cement, furniture fashioned from factory pipes, and accessories created from motorbike leather, Taiwanese designers are winning new fans at home and abroad with their own brand of industrial chic.

The style reflects the island's sprawling cities and aims to breathe new life into mundane materials more often found on building sites or in workshops.

Jewellery and watchmaker Sean Yu uses concrete for his products, starting out by making rings from the material.

After experimenting with different types of concrete, he now uses a mix similar to the formula used to construct buildings.

His latest top-selling item is a mechanical watch with a concrete surface in the shape of a spiral staircase. It launched last year and set a sales record on crowd-funding website Zeczec, raising over Tw$12 million ($400,000) in pre-orders.

Yu says his style is inspired by acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Ando, known for his masterly use of concrete.

"I design for myself and for like-minded people who are avant-garde and rebellious, and who like novel things," Yu told AFP.

"What attracts me most about concrete is that when you treat an ordinary material well, you can deliver new values."

His products are also on sale in Britain, Japan and the United States.

With watches made from cement, furniture fashioned from factory pipes, and accessories created from motorbike leather, Taiwanese designers are winning new fans at home and abroad with their own brand of industrial chic

Plumber-turned-interior designer Daniel Cheng uses iron piping to create everything from lights to shelves and sofa frames.

Cheng branched out into furniture design when he was seeking to expand his business and also uses steel bars, tyres, truck wheel rims and car seats for his creations.

"My inspirations are simple. I was a plumber and it's something I worked with everyday," he said.

"I want to use my imagination to make something interesting and meaningful."

Cheng says most of his clients order custom-made products, with local celebrities among his fans, as well as businesses that have hired him to decorate restaurants, cafes and clothes shops.

Ginger Chang of the Taiwan Design Centre, which promotes local designers and brands, said the industrial look featuring cement, brass, aluminium and granite is increasingly popular as an interior design trend on the island.

"The public like fresh things and they are looking for something special in terms of materials. They like the one-of-a-kind feel," Chang told AFP.

Consumers are also drawn by a green element to some of the industrial chic products.

Balance Wu, who co-designs products with his wife, wants to prevent motorcycle seat-pads and scrap leather from ending up as garbage, so uses them to create wallets, bags and accessories

Balance Wu says he wants to prevent motorcycle seat-pads and scrap leather from ending up as garbage, so uses them to create wallets, bags and accessories.

There's no shortage of material -- Taiwan's cities are clogged with mopeds -- and Wu's creations are now sold in design shops from Taipei to New York.

"Motorcycle leather is a humble and durable material that has to withhold wind, rain and sun every day," says Wu, who co-designs the products with his wife Chin Yang.

"We are turning this durable material into products that can be used for a long time."Down but not out -- yet: South Africa's embattled President Jacob Zuma has rejected a party request that he resign

South Africa's ruling ANC party on Tuesday "recalled" scandal-tainted President Jacob Zuma from office but set no deadline for him to step down, pitching the country into further uncertainty.

ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule told reporters that Zuma had "agreed in principle to resign" and had proposed leaving in three to six months -- a delay that the party rejected.

Magashule said there was no date for Zuma to stand down, and added that there would be "continuing interaction" between ANC officials and Zuma.

"The NEC (National Executive Committee) decided... to recall its deployee Jacob Zuma," Magashule told reporters, saying the move "was taken only after exhaustive discussion on the impact such a recall would have on the country".

The African National Congress party can "recall" the head of state, but the process is a party-level instruction and Zuma is under no constitutional obligation to obey.

Zuma is expected to respond to the recall on Wednesday, and could be ousted in a parliamentary vote of no-confidence if he clings to office.

Jacob Zuma's presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger

A cabinet meeting scheduled for Wednesday was postponed indefinitely, the government said in a statement, effectively clearing Zuma's diary for the day.

The power struggle over Zuma's departure has put him at loggerheads with Cyril Ramaphosa, his expected successor, who is the new head of the African National Congress (ANC).

- Who's in charge? -

The ANC's leadership committee met for 13 hours at a hotel outside Pretoria, and decided in the early hours of Tuesday to "recall" Zuma from his post.

A committee member confirmed to AFP that the president had asked for three more months in office.

Local media reported that Zuma is seeking to have his potentially ruinous legal fees from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal charges indemnified.

One case relates to 783 payments he allegedly received linked to an arms deal before he came to power.

He is also reportedly seeking legal protection for his family and other associates involved in controversial deals.

Ben Payton of the London-based Maplecroft risk consultancy said the recall was "a political death sentence" for the president.

The power struggle over the departure of Zuma, left, has put him at loggerheads with Cyril Ramaphosa, his expected successor

"If Ramaphosa had agreed to help protect Zuma from prosecution in any way, his leadership would have been tainted -- perhaps fatally," he added.

The impasse has plunged South Africa -- the continent's most developed economy -- into confusion over who is running the country, with major national events cancelled amid the uncertainty.

"We know you want this matter to be finalised," Ramaphosa, 65, told a party rally in Cape Town on Sunday.

South African opposition parties have called for early elections as the ANC's slow-motion transfer of power to Ramaphosa grinds on.

An opposition request for a no-confidence vote against Zuma, 75, this week was still being considered by the parliamentary speaker.

The radical Economic Freedom Fighters has threatened to sue the speaker unless she approves and brings forward their proposed motion of no confidence.

Mmusi Maimane, the leader of the main opposition Democratic Alliance party called the recall an "internal ANC resolution, nothing more".

South Africa is the continent's most developed economy

"Unless Zuma tenders his resignation, this recall is not worth the paper it is printed on," he wrote on his verified Twitter account.

Zuma's presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger.

He was scheduled to stand down next year after serving the maximum two terms after coming to power in 2009.

- Mandela's party -

In 2008, Zuma's supporters pushed out then-president Thabo Mbeki via a similar "recall" over allegations of abuse of power.

In local polls in 2016, the ANC recorded its worst electoral result since coming to power in 1994 with Nelson Mandela at the helm as white-minority rule fell.

Ramaphosa, the deputy president, must revive the economy and crack down on what he has admitted is rampant government corruption if he is to boost the party's tarnished reputation before an uphill election battle next year.

He is a former trade unionist and Mandela ally who led talks to end apartheid in the early 1990s and then became a multi-millionaire businessman before returning to politics.

Zuma's hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- his former wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost to Ramaphosa in a vote to be the new party leader.

The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the budget speech, which is due on February 21.The blackout comes five months after two hurricanes destroyed Puerto Rico's electricity network

Most of San Juan and a strip of northern Puerto Rico municipalities were plunged into darkness Sunday night after an explosion at a power station, five months after two hurricanes destroyed the island's electricity network.

The state electric power authority (AEE) said the blast was caused by a broken-down switch in Rio Piedras, resulting in a blackout in central San Juan and Palo Seco in the north.

"We have personnel working to restore the system as soon as possible," the AEE said.

San Juan's mayor, Carmen Yulin Cruz, said on Twitter that emergency services and local officials attended the scene in the neighborhood of Monacillos, but no injuries were reported.

Meanwhile, the Puerto Rican capital's airport said it was maintaining its schedule using emergency generators.

The blackout comes as nearly 500,000 of AEE's 1.6 million customers remain without power since Hurricanes Irma and Maria struck the US territory in September 2017.

AEE engineer Jorge Bracero warned on Twitter that the outage was "serious," and advised those affected that power would not be restored until Monday.Asma Jahangir, who died on Sunday, faced death threats, beatings and imprisonment to win landmark human rights cases while standing up to dictators

The United Nations Secretary-General has paid tribute to Pakistan's "human rights giant" Asma Jahangir following her death by cardiac arrest at the weekend, praising her courage in campaigns for justice and equality for all.

Antonio Guterres issued his "heartfelt condolences" to those grieving the 66-year-old lawyer, who co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and also once served as UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran.

"We have lost a human rights giant," the UN chief said in a statement released after Jahangir's death was announced on Sunday.

"She was a tireless advocate for inalienable rights of all people and for equality -- whether in her capacity as a Pakistani lawyer in the domestic justice system, as a global civil society activist, or as a Special Rapporteur. Asma was brilliant, deeply principled, courageous and kind."

Pakistan social media has been flooded with an outpouring of grief for the loss of what many described as the country's "moral compass", while on Monday newspaper front pages were dominated by tributes to the nation's leading human rights activist.

In its editorial "Asma the fearless", Pakistan's Dawn newspaper said Jahangir was a citizen that all of Pakistan could be proud of and whom most can only hope to emulate.

"Principled and courageous, Asma's willingness and determination to confront evil, defend the vulnerable, and insist on Pakistan living up to the ideals of its democratic, constitutional and secular foundations made her truly iconic," the paper wrote.

Another English language daily, The News wrote that she "spoke out bravely and with immense courage for all the oppressed people of the country, essentially acting as the conscience of Pakistan".

"Only her sudden death could silence her and steal away from us the bravest of the brave this country has produced," it said.

Jahangir faced death threats, beatings and imprisonment to win landmark human rights cases while standing up to dictators.

The rights commission which she helped create made its name defending religious minorities and tackling highly charged blasphemy accusations along with cases of "honour" killings -- in which victims, normally women, are murdered by a relative for bringing shame on the family.

Jahangir secured a number of victories during her life, from winning freedom for bonded labourers from their "owners" through pioneering litigation, to a landmark court case that allowed women to marry of their own volition.

She was also an outspoken critic of the powerful military establishment, including during her stint as the first-ever female leader of Pakistan's top bar association.

Jahangir was arrested in 2007 by the government of then-military ruler Pervez Musharraf and held under house arrest. In 2012 she claimed her life was in danger from the feared Inter Services Intelligence spy agency.

Funeral prayers will be held in Jahangir hometown of Lahore, according to an obituary published by her family in local papers.Aborigines, who make up about three percent of the total national population of 25 million, are among the most disadvantaged Australians

Australia is making some progress in improving health and education among its indigenous population, an annual report said Monday, but it is still missing most targets to reduce Aboriginal disadvantage a decade after launching a major campaign.

The 10th "Closing the Gap" study found authorities were on track to meet just three out of seven targets to help health, education and employment outcomes among Aborigines catch up with the non-indigenous population.

Efforts were showing results in areas such as reducing Aboriginal child mortality and improving rates of high school qualifications.

But four other areas including boosting indigenous employment and life expectancy were falling behind.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said results were improving, after Australia had been on track to meet just one target the year before.

"Three of the seven targets are on track this year, giving us the most promising result since 2011," he told parliament.

"The last decade has given us a richer understanding about what works and what does not," he said, adding the most valuable lesson had come from working more closely with indigenous people.

Aborigines, who make up about three percent of the total national population of 25 million, are among the most disadvantaged Australians.

Monday's report -- marking a decade since former prime minister Kevin Rudd made a historic apology to Aboriginal people for centuries of injustice -- showed the target to halve the gap in child mortality with non-indigenous Australians by 2018 was on track to be met.

The mortality rate for indigenous children under four years old has fallen from 217 per 100,000 in 1998 to 145 per 100,000 in 2016, but it is still far higher than the rest of the population.

There was also progress in the aim to have 95 percent of all indigenous four-year-olds enrolled in early childhood education by 2025, and on improving the number of Aboriginals who finish high school by 2020 with a recognised qualification.

But overall school attendance goals were not being met and nor was the proportion of indigenous children achieving national minimum standards in reading and numeracy.

Indigenous employment was also falling, while raising life expectancy levels remained a challenge.

Rudd, who launched what has become a bipartisan strategy to close the gap on indigenous disadvantage, said it was critical to maintain "political commitment, policy effort and funding support" to better Aboriginal lives.

"With strong political leadership, prepared to make a difference, with policy consistency and creativity, and with funding resolve, we can build an Australia where the First Australians are not simply an integral part of our national identity," he said Monday.

"But (they) are full and equal partners in the charting of our national future as well."France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian visited Iraq to discuss reconstruction and to meet Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, President Fuad Massum and parliament speaker Salim al-Juburi

France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian visited Iraq on Monday to discuss the war-torn country's reconstruction after Baghdad declared victory against the Islamic State jihadist group.

"I have come to tell you of France's support and to accompany you. We will always be there. We were there to participate in the coalition. We will also be there in the reconstruction phase," Le Drian said.

France has been a key member of the US-led military coalition fighting IS after the jihadist group seized large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria in 2014.

Baghdad is looking to drum up funds at a reconstruction conference in neighbouring Kuwait from Monday to Wednesday after announcing the defeat of IS nationwide at the end of last year.

"We hope French expertise will be used for the reconstruction," Iraq's Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari replied.

Le Drian, who previously visited Baghdad in August last year, is also to meet Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, President Fuad Massum and parliament speaker Salim al-Juburi.

During his visit, he is expected to stress the importance of involving the Shiite-majority country's Sunni community in national reconciliation ahead of general elections in May, members of the minister's entourage said.

He is also to express France's opposition to any death penalty for two French women awaiting trial in Iraq over accusations of joining IS.

They risk the death penalty under the country's counter-terrorism law.

The United Nations urged Iraq to halt all executions after it learnt of 106 in the country last year.

Iraq is still reeling from the rise of IS and the punishing fightback it took to crush the jihadists, with swathes of its territory in ruins and millions of people displaced.

Authorities in the resource-rich nation say there has been a heavy toll on oil, electricity and manufacturing infrastructure, as well as basic services such as water and sanitation.

Iraq needs $88.2 billion to rebuild after years of war against the Islamic State group, Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili said Monday.

In 2017, France lent 430 million euros (more than $500 million) to oil-rich Iraq, whose coffers have suffered from the war against IS and a drop in world crude prices.

Le Drian is also on Monday to head to Iraqi Kurdistan, an autonomous region hit by a political and economic crisis after a controversial independence referendum led to Baghdad retaking the oil-rich province of Kirkuk from the Kurds last year.

The French envoy is then to head to Kuwait to attend the Iraq reconstruction conference on Tuesday and a meeting of the anti-IS coalition with his US counterpart Rex Tillerson.The US 369th Infantry Regiment "Harlem Hellfighters" band landed in France in 1918, bringing the joy of jazz to a continent demoralised by war

A hundred years ago in World War One, a group of American soldiers stormed Europe -- not to the boom of guns, but the swinging rhythm of saxophones, drums and horns.

They came to fight in the mud against the Germans in a war approaching its end -- but their arrival also marked the start of a sweeter, cultural conquest.

A hundred years ago on Monday, the 369th Infantry's "Harlem Hellfighters Band" gave what is said to have been the first jazz concert on European soil -- in the northwestern French city of Nantes.

"When the band had finished and the people were roaring with laughter, their faces wreathed in smiles, I was forced to say that this is just what France needed at this critical moment," wrote one of the band members, Noble Sissle, in his memoirs.

On Monday Nantes launches a series of concerts, conferences and exhibitions to mark the centenary of that legendary gig.

Among the guests of honour at Monday night's opening are three of the grandchildren of the orchestra's leader, Lieutenant James Reese Europe -- the black American bandleader known as the "king of jazz".

- Catching the jazz bug -

The Harlem Hellfighters band played jazz concerts around France

After that night at Nantes's Theatre Graslin, Europe would never sound the same again.

It "turned France upside down", according to local press reports from the time.

"The 'Jazz germ' had hit them," Sissle wrote, "and it seemed to find the vital spot."

The 369th Infantry was one of the four African American regiments sent from the racially segregated Unites States to fight under French command.

James Reese Europe "was the first African American officer to lead troops in a wartime attack," said Matthieu Jouan, head of the "100 Years of Jazz" commemorations in Nantes.

The officer also put together the 40-strong band which included "some of the best of the time", Jouan added.

When they were not fighting at the front, they played to entertain the troops and locals.

"People went crazy everywhere they toured to," said Jouan.

- Music from No Man's Land -

The 369th Infantry received the Croix de Guerre French military decoration for bravery.

France also awarded the Legion d'Honneur to 171 members of the regiment for liberating the village of Sechault, where a monument to them now stands.

Lieutenant Europe composed one of his best-known tunes, "One Patrol in No Man's Land", while lying injured in hospital.

He returned from the war a hero, only to die months later in May 1919 at the age of 39 -- stabbed in the neck by one of his bandmates.

The headlines in the American press read: "The king of jazz is dead," said Jouan.

But the officer's death coincided, he added, with the rise of three great musical stars: Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet.

The jazz age had begun.This handout photograph released on February 11, 2018 by the family of Iranian-Canadian environmentalist Kavous Seyed Emami shows him at an unidentified location

Leading academics and rights activists demanded action from Iran's government on Monday following the alleged "suicide" of a revered environmentalist in prison.

The family of Kavous Seyed Emami, 63, a renowned professor at Imam Sadegh University and founder of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, was told on Friday that he had killed himself in prison two weeks after his arrest.

A judiciary official claimed on Sunday that he had confessed to crimes related to an espionage investigation, which has seen seven other members of his wildlife NGO placed in detention.

The incident prompted Iranian rights activist Emadeddin Baghi, who has been jailed several times, to express regret over his failure to speak up about prison abuses in the past.

"When I heard this news I felt guilty because, in order to prevent it being exploited by Iran's enemies... I refused to reveal the bad treatment I had experienced during my detention," Baghi wrote on his Telegram channel.

"If we had all spoken out, it would be known why such catastrophes happen in prisons," he added.

A group of four academic societies, representing some of Iran's top universities, wrote an open letter to President Hassan Rouhani, demanding "immediate and effective action to seriously investigate the case... and make the institutions involved in this painful loss accountable".

"In addition to being a well-known professor, a distinguished scientist and war veteran... he was a noble and ethical human being," they wrote in the letter.

"The news and rumours related to his arrest and death are not believable."

One of Rouhani's closest advisors, Hesameddin Ashena, tweeted later that the judiciary, which is dominated by conservatives and has clashed with his moderate government in the past, should be more closely supervised.

"Judges, prosecutors, officers, interrogators are neither infallible, nor faultless or free from prejudice," Ashena wrote.

"Just as it is necessary to supervise the executive branch, it is necessary to supervise their dealings with defendants.

"One Mortazavi was enough for the country, let's not have another one," he added, referring to notorious former Tehran prosecutor Said Mortazavi, who was convicted over the death of a protester in custody during mass demonstrations in 2009.

Asked about Emami's case on Monday, judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejeie told the reformist ILNA news agency: "I have heard he committed suicide but I have so far no information on the details. This recent incident is under investigation."

Separately, the Environment Protection Organisation (EPO) denied rumours that its deputy head Kaveh Madani had been arrested.

A senior official at the EPO, who did not wish to be named, told AFP on Monday that this was incorrect and that Madani was at work.

A tweet was published on Madani's personal Twitter account early Monday for the first time in three days.

"Hopeful for narrow-mindedness to get wiped out. Hopeful for peace of mind for environmental activists. Hopeful for the removal of concern of those awaiting the return of loved ones," it read.Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte shows a photo of a Filipina worker in Kuwait, alleging she had been "roasted like a pig", during a press conference last week

The Philippines Monday expanded a ban on its citizens working in Kuwait after President Rodrigo Duterte angrily lashed out at the Gulf state over reports of Filipino workers suffering abuse and exploitation.

Authorities say 252,000 Filipinos work in Kuwait, many as maids. They are among over two million employed in the region, whose remittances are a lifeline to the Philippine economy.

But Labour Secretary Silvestre Bello Monday announced a "total ban" on new employment in the country, including Filipinos who had already obtained employment permits but had not yet left for the wealthy oil-producing country.

Authorities have not ruled out revoking the permits of Filipinos currently working in Kuwait or of previous hires returning on new contracts.

"With the advent of the series of reports involving abuses and deaths of overseas Filipino workers in Kuwait, a total ban on deployment of all overseas workers ... is hereby enforced," Bello said, reading an order.

"This order takes effect immediately."

The move would affect thousands of workers, labour spokeswoman Abegail de Vega said.

The fresh move came after Duterte last month barred Filipinos from seeking work in Kuwait, although the ban exempted those who had already secured permission.

Last Friday Duterte hit out at Kuwait as he brandished photos reportedly of a Filipina maid found in a freezer, saying she had been "roasted like a pig".

Duterte has been vocal on the issue of abuse of Filipinos in the Middle East, even threatening a ban on citizens working anywhere in the region.

He also alleged Arab employers routinely raped their Filipina workers, forced them to work 21 hours each day and fed them scraps.

"Is there something wrong with your culture? Is there something wrong with your values?" he had said, addressing Kuwait.

Kuwait's embassy in Manila declined to comment.

Accounts of Filipinos being subjected to abuse, overwork, rape or dying in suspicious circumstances in the region have long circulated.

The Philippine foreign affairs department said Monday authorities were repatriating 10,000 overstaying Filipinos from Kuwait, taking advantage of an amnesty programme arranged with the Kuwaiti government.

Officials added they were eyeing China and Russia as "alternative markets" for overseas workers.In recent years Malaysia has seen a series of cases involving mistreatment of domestic workers

A brother and sister have been arrested over the death of a young Indonesian maid who was allegedly abused in Malaysia, police said Monday.

Malaysia is a magnet for migrant workers but salaries are low and employees are not protected by labour laws.

In recent years the country has seen a series of cases involving mistreatment of domestic workers including deaths.

Police identified the victim as a 21-year-old called Adelina who had been working in Malaysia for two years.

Her head and face were swollen and she had wounds to her hand and legs, a police document said.

A woman and her brother, both in their 30s, are under investigation following the deatht in northern Penang state, local police chief Nik Ros Azhan Nik Abdul Hamid told AFP.

Adelina died on Sunday in hospital a day after she was rescued by a migrant workers' protection group, local reports said.

Malaysia relies on an estimated two million Indonesians who toil in plantations, in construction, in factories and in homes -- both legally and illegally.

In 2014 a Malaysian couple were sentenced to hang for starving their Indonesian maid to death.

Two years earlier a Cambodian maid was starved to death by her employers, who received a 24-year jail sentence.

Malaysia has taken some steps to improve the welfare of domestic workers, including requiring them to have at least one day off a week and increasing minimum monthly salaries to 700 ringgit ($176). But activists say enforcement is difficult.Travellers wait for a train at the West Railway Station in Beijing, as they depart the capital ahead of the Lunar New Year

Millions have begun heading home from Beijing for Lunar New Year, but many this year will not return as China's capital becomes increasingly unwelcoming for the migrants from the provinces who once powered its economy.

Crowds carrying parcels and suitcases and packs of instant noodles gathered at the Beijing West Railway Station Saturday, waiting to board packed trains ahead of the most important holiday on the Chinese calendar.

Throughout the country, hundreds of millions will be on the move in the world's largest annual human migration.

Among them Saturday was Li Wen, a 47-year-old restaurant worker and one of many Beijing residents who has bought a one-way ticket in the face of a campaign of demolitions that has made life impossible for many of the city's migrant workers.

Passengers pack into a crowded train during the 26-hour journey from Beijing to Chengdu, as they head home ahead of the Lunar New Year

She moved to the capital ten years ago to earn money to support her daughter, who now attends university in Chengdu.

However, many migrants like her are no longer welcome in the overcrowded city, which seeks to cap its population at 23 million by 2020 and demolish 40 million square metres of illegal structures - mostly shops and homes for low-income residents.

"I came to Beijing to work because the salaries in the capital are much better than elsewhere. But in my neighbourhood, many of the hutong (alleyway single-storey) homes have been torn down already," Li told AFP.

"I won't be able to survive in the city if I need to pay three times more to rent in a normal apartment building," she said.

- Breathing space -

Travellers must be home by Thursday to usher in the new year on Friday. But getting there is an ordeal.

On one 28-hour train journey from Beijing to the southwestern city of Chengdu, only the lucky passengers were able to snag a seat.

Many had to stand for the entire trip, clogging the aisles. Meals on plastic trays were passed from passenger to passenger.

To get some breathing space in the hot and stuffy carriages, some people stood on top of the seats, surveying the scene below.

But few complained. They passed the time playing on smartphones, sharing food and chatting with fellow passengers. Even the children mostly stayed quiet.

People sleep in the restaurant car during the train journey from Beijing to Chengdu, as travellers head home from the capital ahead of the Lunar New Year

Yet the mood in the dining car was sombre despite the cheerful red and gold Lunar New Year decorations. Like Li, some of those stuffed into the train do not plan to return to Beijing when the 15-day festival is over.

"The Beijing authorities don't want migrant workers to reside here. They call it economic upgrading," said Pablo Wang of China Labour Bulletin.

"A lot of migrants are going back home. With these policies, they cannot come back."

Authorities say the campaign to demolish sub-standard housing, which kicked into high gear after a fire in an illegal structure killed 19 people in November, is necessary to clean the city up once and for all.

Fire safety is a major problem in the city's cheap migrant housing, which often has jerry-rigged electrical wiring and a lack of emergency exits.

But the brutal efficiency of the demolitions and mass evictions over the past year has provoked an unusual public outcry that has put officials on edge.

- Three billion trips -

Although relegated to the periphery, migrants have kept China's economy humming -- handling the dreary, difficult, dirty and sometimes dangerous work that the city's permanent residents shun.

Industries like construction, domestic work and sanitation are almost completely staffed by migrants. Their exodus from Beijing took a toll on the city's growth last year, which slowed from a year earlier.

On Sunday transport officials reported a slight drop in the number of trips made during the first ten days of this year's holiday travel period. Chinese passengers made 732 million trips by railway, road, waterway and plane from February 1 to February 10, down three percent from last year.

The transport ministry attributed the drop to university students and migrant workers who returned home before the rush started. Many migrants left the city last November and December as authorities evicted hundreds of thousands.

During last year's lunar rush, Chinese passengers made almost three billion trips during the festival travel period, according to the official Xinhua news agency.

Li has still not yet decided if she will try her luck in a different city after the holiday.

"My daughter just started university so she won't be able to work, and I'll have to keep working to support her," she said.

"But I don't have any plans.... I'll just see what happens."Iranian President Hassan Rouhani delivers a speech in Tehran during a ceremony to mark the 39th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution on February 11, 2018

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani will visit India this week for three days, local media reported on Monday.

Rouhani is due to leave for India on Thursday to discuss "the latest regional and global developments", the semi-official ISNA news agency said.

He was invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year, ISNA said.

India and Iran have collaborated on key projects, most notably the Chabahar port in southeastern Iran that was inaugurated in December.

The port has been touted as a way for India to establish trade routes that bypass its rival Pakistan, but the project has seen multiple delays.

India has been a key purchaser of Iranian oil and gas, and maintained trade ties even as international sanctions were imposed on Iran over its nuclear programme between 2012 and 2016.

However, there have been tensions in the relationship, with the Indian media reporting frustrations over delays in awarding a contract to develop a major gas field known as Farzad B in the Gulf.

That led India to announce it was reducing its oil imports from Iran in protest in March 2017, leading Tehran to say it was restricting credit lines to India.

The two countries have nonetheless sought to move beyond the spat, and have continued to seek partnerships, with India signing a preliminary agreement last month to help expand Iran's rail network, including expanding rail links to Chabahar.Indonesia has been on heightened alert following a string of IS-inspired attacks and plots

The Indonesian leader of an Islamic State-linked militant group was jailed for seven years Monday over plans to smuggle weapons from the southern Philippines, a court said.

Zainal Anshori, 43, head of Jamaah Ansharut Daulah, was found guilty of committing a "criminal act of terrorism" by the Jakarta court.

His group is believed to be responsible for several terror plots in Indonesia including a January 2016 attack in Jakarta that left eight people dead, including four militants.

Prosecutors had called for a 10-year prison term.

The cache of some 50 weapons, which did not reach their destination, were intended to be used in future attacks in Indonesia, the court said.

Indonesia, the world's biggest Muslim majority nation, has been on heightened alert following a string of IS-inspired attacks and plots.

Many jihadists from Indonesia -- which has long struggled with Islamist militancy -- have in recent years travelled to join IS in Syria and the Philippine city of Marawi.

Foreign and local IS supporters ravaged Marawi before being defeated in October, ending a five-month conflict with the military that left about 1,100 people dead.

Last week, a Jakarta court sentenced an Islamist militant to ten years in prison for buying a cache of guns from a rebel group in the Philippines.Jacob Zuma

Pressure is mounting on South Africa's scandal-tarred president, Jacob Zuma, to leave office ahead of elections next year.

Here are the ways by which he could leave office early:

- Vote of no confidence -

Zuma's enemies have previously sought to topple him with parliamentary votes of no confidence.

Several such motions have been tabled in parliament but failed.

During the last attempt, in August, the president's opponents fell short by only 24 votes after some lawmakers from Zuma's own African National Congress (ANC) party voted against him.

For such a motion to succeed, a simple majority of parliamentarians would be needed -- 201 in total. The ANC has 249 seats in the national assembly.

If successful, the president and cabinet would have to resign.

The speaker of parliament would become president for a maximum 30 days.

The radical opposition Economic Freedom Fighters party has tabled another motion of no confidence which is due to be debated in parliament on February 22.

Opposition parties are now requesting it is moved forwarded.

- Impeachment -

The impeachment process provides three grounds by which lawmakers can strip the president of office: a serious breach of the constitution; serious misconduct; or incapacity to carry out his or her duties.

Two-thirds -- 267 -- of the members of the National Assembly would have to vote for the president's removal for this pathway to succeed.

If a president is removed by impeachment, he or she is replaced by the deputy president, and would lose the perks and benefits normally afforded to former heads of state.

However, the prospects for this are unclear. Parliament's oversight of the president has been criticised as being too slack.

In 2016, Zuma was found guilty of failing to uphold the constitution by the country's highest court over taxpayer-funded upgrades to his personal home.

After a court battle, Zuma agreed to pay back $500,000 (410,000 euros) that he had refused to reimburse.

In December, the Constitutional Court criticised parliament for not holding the president to account over this scandal and ordered it to draft clear rules for removing a sitting head of state.

Parliament has begun discussing such a mechanism but could take months to conclude the process.

- Resignation and recall -

There are two main scenarios under which Zuma could resign.

He could decide to relinquish power -- likely the most dignified option.

This route would "not embarrass the president", Collette Schulz-Herzenberg, a political science lecturer at Stellenbosch University, said.

Under the other scenario, Zuma could be "recalled" by his party when its National Executive Committee meets on Monday and effectively forced to step down.

If he refused to resign as head of state, the party could then trigger a parliamentary confidence vote to get rid of him.

In 2008 when Jacob Zuma was head of the ANC, it recalled head of state Thabo Mbeki and shortened his term by eight months.

The party then ordered him to quit the presidency, because South African presidents derive their legitimacy from the largest party in parliament which elects them.

The deputy president -- Cyril Ramaphosa -- would take power and it would be up to the national assembly to pick a new president within 30 days.Iraq declared victory over the Islamic State group in December after a prolonged battle involving the Hashed al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilisation units), here seen firing artillery near IS stronghold Hawija on October 4, 2017

An Iraqi court on Monday sentenced a Turkish woman and a Syrian man to life in jail over ties to the Islamic State group, a judicial spokesman said.

The woman was accused of "hiding the actions of a terrorist group to which her husband belonged", Supreme Judicial Council spokesman Abdel Sattar Bayraqdar said, referring to IS.

"The court condemned another Syrian terrorist to life in prison for belonging to IS and for taking part in attacks against Iraqi soldiers," he said.

Iraq in December declared victory against IS after a years-long battle to retake large swathes of territory the jihadists had seized in 2014.

Several hundred foreigners, both men and women, are thought to have been detained in the fighting.

An Iraqi court last month condemned to death by hanging a German woman of Moroccan origin after finding her guilty of belonging to the jihadist group.

She is believed to be the first European woman to be sentenced to death in Iraq in relation to IS.

In September last year, Iraq sentenced to death by hanging a Russian man who was captured in second city Mosul and found guilty of fighting for the group.

In December, a Swede of Iraqi origin was among 38 people executed after being convicted of "terrorism".

Three French women awaiting trial in Baghdad could face the death penalty for joining IS, sources with knowledge their cases told AFP last month.A picture taken on February 11, 2018 shows the main entrance of the Ritz-Carlton hotel in the Saudi capital Riyadh following its reopening for business

Leaping bronze stallions adorn the lobby, Western consultants hobnob over tea and scones and a sumptuous buffet is laid out -- Riyadh's Ritz-Carlton appears exactly as it was before it became a gilded prison.

Guests trickled in after the palatial 500-room hotel reopened on Sunday to find few signs of the three-month incarceration of princes, ministers and business moguls in an unprecedented anti-corruption purge.

"The only difference is that the front gates are open," a smiling hotel employee told guests checking in.

"The guest list is also quite different I imagine," quipped a Western diplomat, sipping a cardamom latte in the ornate lobby as a traditional oud musician performed in the background.

Many of the 381 suspects, including flamboyant billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal -- dubbed the Warren Buffett of Saudi Arabia -- have been released in recent weeks in exchange for what officials call financial settlements.

Other high-profile detainees included former National Guard chief Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, construction magnate Bakr bin Laden and media mogul Waleed bin Ibrahim.

Each detainee was given his own room -- with room service and television, but no internet or telephone access to prevent contact with the outside world, according to multiple business associates interviewed by AFP.

Sharp objects such as glass items and curtain chords were also removed to prevent suicide attempts, they said.

All those services and items were available in an eighth-floor deluxe room that an AFP reporter checked into on Sunday.

It was impossible to know whether a detainee had stayed there or the room had been refurbished.

Many of the high-profile detainees are believed to have been kept in apartment-like royal suites, which comprise bedrooms, a kitchen, dining room and a living room, according to the hotel website.

As service resumed at the hotel, staff appeared to have been instructed not to talk to journalists about the purge, launched by powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

- 'Too sensitive' -

One staff member said he was away on holiday for the last three months. Another said he was present throughout the Kafkaesque ordeal, but declined to say anymore under the watchful gaze of his superiors.

When asked how the crackdown had affected the brand of the hotel -- widely labelled a "luxury prison" -- a public relations manager declined to comment, calling the matter "too sensitive".

Hotel authorities did not permit AFP to film inside the hotel.

But the public relations manager gave AFP a tour of the hotel's bowling alley and extravagant indoor pool with a sky-blue ceiling painted with clouds.

He also showed off the hotel's Italian, Chinese and Oriental restaurant, boasting a lavish seafood bar with poached mussels, shrimp and calamari. All the sites were largely empty.

A picture taken on February 11, 2018 shows a window cleaner at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in the Saudi capital Riyadh following its reopening for business

But the cafe in the lobby saw a handful of Saudi families, enjoying the novelty of taking selfies at the famous hotel.

The hotel staff were also tight-lipped about occupancy. There were only a trickle of guests but the front manager apologised profusely for being unable to offer some guests a front-facing "fountain view" room.

They included foreign businessmen who had been forced to decamp to other hotels on the night of November 4 when the detentions started.

"We were suddenly told 'we have an event, you have to move,'" said a Western consultant, who like many people interviewed at the hotel were unwilling to be named.

"It's good to be back."

- 'Fear bigger than resentment' -

The hotel's reopening appeared to be as shrouded in secrecy as the crackdown itself.

The government has not revealed all the names of the 381 suspects or the charges and nature of settlements, prompting alarm among international investors at the apparent lack of due process, observers say.

"As the Ritz re-opens with a lavish food buffet and an upgrade of services, it will take more than a fresh coat of paint to convince investors that Prince Mohammed's kingdom is completely safe to check-in to," Andrew Bowen, a scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, told AFP.

"Ironically, by quickly re-opening the rather ostentatious hotel, the new glitz of the old Ritz illustrates how the sins of the past are still very present in the kingdom."

But proponents of the crackdown say it reached its objective of prompting "behavioural change" among the once-untouchable elite -- seen widely as a living embodiment of corruption.

"The crackdown has also succeeded in telling people to fall in line" with Prince Mohammed's so-called Vision 2030 program of reforms for a post-oil era, said the Western diplomat.

"Fear is bigger than resentment I imagine."

As the night wore on, the hotel lobby was empty of guests. Around midnight, the only people around were liveried staff vacuuming and swabbing the intricately patterned marble floor.The new co-chairs of the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party Pervin Buldan (L) and Sezai Temelli (R) were chosen on Sunday

Turkish prosecutors Monday launched a probe into the leader of the main pro-Kurdish party over criticism of Ankara's offensive in Syria, just one day after she was chosen as the new joint leader of the party.

The Ankara chief public prosecutor opened an investigation into Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) leader Pervin Buldan and fellow lawmaker Sirri Surreya Onder on suspicion of making "terror" propaganda, the prosecutor's office told AFP.

Turkey has detained hundreds of people since the Syria operation began on January 20, in a major crackdown that has angered activists.

The interior ministry said on Monday that 474 people had now been detained over accusations of spreading "terror propaganda" and another 192 for protesting against it.

Turkey launched a military operation dubbed "Olive Branch" against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) militia in its western enclave of Afrin in Syria, supporting Syrian rebels with ground troops and air strikes.

The HDP is the only party in parliament that opposes the offensive.

Buldan, who is also a deputy speaker of the parliament, had been chosen by party delegates to be co-leader of the HDP on Sunday during its congress in Ankara.

Ankara says the YPG is a "terrorist" offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) but the militia has been working closely with the US who has given it weapons to use against the Islamic State extremist group in Syria.

The prosecutor's office said the two MPs were being investigated after images of the jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan were shown during the congress.

The two are also being probed over allegedly making statements against the Afrin operation during the event but the prosecutor's office did not give specific details.

The HDP has male and female co-chairs in the name of promoting gender equality. The party's delegates voted for Buldan's male co-leader to be Sezai Temelli, a former MP.

Temelli replaced Selahattin Demirtas, who was credited with building the appeal of the party beyond its Kurdish base but has been jailed since November 2016 over alleged links to the PKK.

Buldan replaced Serpil Kemalbay who herself replaced Figen Yuksekdag, who was arrested at the same time as Demirtas.The haunting pictures show a scarred territory with large patches of levelled land

Aerial photos of Rakhine state have emerged that appear to show several bulldozed Rohingya settlements, renewing accusations Myanmar is wiping out the homes and history of the Muslim minority.

Nearly 700,000 Rohingya have fled Myanmar's Rakhine state to Bangladesh since insurgent attacks on police posts triggered a brutal military crackdown.

The UN has led global condemnation of the army action, describing it as ethnic cleansing.

Rights activists also say the systematic destruction of hundreds of villages, mosques and property is effectively rubbing out the Rohingya's ties to their ancestral lands.

The Muslim minority are not recognised as an ethnic group in Myanmar and have faced decades of persecution.

Many fear the recent crackdown is a push to rid the country of the Rohingya for good

Many fear the recent crackdown is a push to rid the country of the Rohingya for good.

Photos posted on social media after a diplomatic tour of the conflict zone in northern Rakhine state last week appear to back that up.

The haunting pictures, posted on the Twitter account of the European Union Ambassador to Myanmar Kristian Schmidt, show a scarred territory with large patches of levelled land.

Villages incinerated during the army crackdown now appear to have been completely bulldozed, devoid of all structures and even trees.

"The Rohingyas are shocked to see their villages razed," said Chris Lewa, head of the NGO the Arakan Project, which has worked for years with Rohingya in Rakhine state.

They fear the upcoming rainy season will further wash away any signs of their past lives, she added.

Accusations of a systematic campaign to rid Rakhine of Rohingya history are not new

"The Rohingya have the feeling that they (the military) are doing away with the last traces of their presence in the region," she said.

Myanmar and Bangladesh signed a repatriation agreement last year that was supposed to commence in January.

But many Rohingya refuse to return without the guarantee of basic rights and safety.

Authorities in Myanmar also insist they will heavily vet all returnees and only take back those "verified" as residents -- a complex and controversial process critics say is likely to exclude large numbers of people.

Myanmar's Social Welfare Minister Win Myat Aye, the lead official in the resettlement process, said the bulldozing was part of a plan to "build back" villages to a higher standard than before.

"We are trying to have the new village plan," he said. "When they come back they can live in their place of origin or nearest to their place of origin."

He said it is taking time because of a labour shortage sparked by the Rohingya exodus and that the government plans to pay returnees to help rebuild their own homes.

Accusations of a systematic campaign to rid Rakhine of Rohingya history are not new.

Last year the United Nations human rights office alleged efforts were underway to "effectively erase signs of memorable landmarks in the geography of the Rohingya landscape and memory".

Access to Rakhine remains tightly controlled, despite a snowballing number of allegations of massacres of Rohingya villagers in Rakhine.

The arrest of two Reuters journalists investigating the extra-judicial killing of ten Rohingya "terrorist" suspects in custody has upped pressure on civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi to condemn the army.

Her administration is in a delicate power-sharing arrangement with the army, which ruled with an iron fist for five decades.Protestors in New York rally for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, also known as the Dream Act, which protects immigrants who came to the United States illegally as children

The citizenship hopes of 1.8 million immigrants brought illegally to the United States as children hung in the balance Monday as Congress launched debate on the hot-button issue, with President Donald Trump eager to "make a deal" on new legislation.

In offering a path to citizenship for the so-called Dreamers, Trump has exceeded the demands of opposition Democrats -- but only in exchange for tough cutbacks on overall immigration and funding for a massive wall on the Mexican border.

His proposal will be front and center as senators from both sides of the aisle begin an unpredictable process that could yield a long-sought breakthrough on immigration, or end in failure -- with hundreds of thousands of immigrants at risk of losing their legal protections early next month.

"We start very serious DACA talks today," Trump said, referring to the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program that expires on March 5.

Trump scrapped the scheme last September and gave Congress six months to craft a permanent fix.

"I hope to be able to make a deal," Trump said, adding the Republican Party would "love" to reach an agreement.

"If the Democrats want to make a deal, it's really up to them."

- 'Generous, humane and responsible' -

A group of conservative senators was to introduce a bill Monday that closely follows the proposals Trump made in January.

The Secure and Succeed Act offers a 10- to 12-year path to citizenship for the 1.8 million Dreamers.

But it will also end the popular "green card lottery," a 28-year-old program to diversify immigrant arrivals, and sharply limit family-based immigration.

In addition, it will allocate $25 billion for tighter border security including the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border that Trump promised during his 2016 election campaign.

"This is the only bill that has a chance of becoming law, and that's because it's the only bill that will truly solve the underlying problem," said Senator Tom Cotton, a lead sponsor of the legislation.

"This bill is generous, humane, and responsible, and now we should send it to the president's desk," Cotton said in a statement.

The Senate's focus on immigration begins on the day the White House unveiled Trump's budget framework for 2019, which asks for increases in border security funding, including for additional agents, detention centers and high-tech equipment such as drones.

"Until the porous borders are closed to the criminals, terrorists, and gang members that exploit it, America remains at risk," the White House said in the document.

Several Democrats have suggested Trump's plan is dead on arrival, in large part because it would so dramatically curb legal immigration.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has pledged to oversee an open-ended process by which both sides will be allowed to introduce amendments on immigration.

"Whoever gets to 60 wins," McConnell said last week, referring to the threshold for advancing most legislation in the 100-member chamber.

- 'Common Sense' coalition -

US President Donald Trump wants his immigration plan to become law, but Democrats -- and some moderate Republicans -- say the package cracks down too hard on legal forms of immigration such as family re-unification

With the fate of the Dreamers in limbo, a bipartisan group of about 25 senators known as the "Common Sense Coalition" is trying to forge a compromise package.

The clock is ticking: nearly 700,000 Dreamers who are registered under DACA could begin losing protections from expulsion early next month.

The program's March 5 expiration date is not set in stone, however; a San Francisco judge's injunction has at least temporarily blocked removal of DACA protections ordered by Trump late last year.

Cotton's bill could meet stiff resistance.

Democrats and some Republicans have opposed Trump's hardline stance, especially the restriction of family-based immigration to spouses and children, and massive funding for the border wall.

Trump's Democratic opponents had originally pushed only for a permanent solution for the DACA registrants, in separate legislation.

By expanding the promise of citizenship to all 1.8 million DACA-eligible young immigrants -- and tying it to immigration cutbacks -- Trump has put the Democrats in a corner.

The president has blamed domestic terror attacks and violent crime on beneficiaries of the visa lottery and family-based "chain migration."

Should an immigration compromise pass the Senate, its fate in the House would remain unclear, in part because some conservatives oppose pathways to citizenship for undocumented migrants.Hindu-majority Jammu is relatively peaceful but has repeatedly seen militant assaults on military bases close to the Pakistan border

Pakistan "will pay" for an attack on an army base in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed nine including five soldiers and a civilian, India's defence minister said Monday.

A firefight erupted Saturday when heavily armed militants stormed the base in Jammu, the second-largest city in the disputed Himalayan region bordering Pakistan.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who visited the injured in hospital, said that counter-terror operations at the camp had been called off on Monday.

"Our intelligence inputs indicate that these terrorists were being controlled by their handlers from across the border," she told reporters.

"Pakistan is expanding the arc of terror... resorting to ceasefire violations (on the border) to assist infiltration. Pakistan will pay for this misadventure," she said.

Sitharaman also corrected the earlier death toll given by police, who said ten including four attackers had been killed in the attack.

"The terrorists have been eliminated although there was information of four terrorists in the area... likely that the fourth (attacker) was a guide and didn't enter the premises," the minister said, putting the overall toll at nine.

The intruders took positions inside a residential complex meant for soldiers' families as the army launched a counter-offensive to drive them out.

Hindu-majority Jammu, located in the foothills of the mountainous region, is relatively peaceful but has repeatedly seen militant assaults on military bases close to the frontier with Pakistan.

Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since their independence from Britain in 1947. Both claim the territory in full and have fought two wars over the region.

Saturday's attack comes 18 years after a similar militant attack on the base in 2003 that killed 12 soldiers.

In late 2016, India said its soldiers destroyed militant bases inside Pakistan-administered Kashmir after 19 soldiers were killed in an assault on an army base.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem on February 11, 2018

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday he has been discussing legislation with the United States that would effectively annex settlements in the occupied West Bank, a spokesman said.

The move would severely damage remaining prospects for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and draw international outrage.

"Regarding the issue of applying sovereignty, I can tell you that I have for some time been speaking with the Americans about it," Netanyahu told lawmakers from his Likud party, according to comments relayed by a spokesman.

Netanyahu said he wanted to coordinate any such "historic" move with the United States because of the country's strategic importance to Israel, his spokesman said.

Some Israeli media interpreted the comments as the first time Netanyahu expressed support for annexing the settlements.

Saeb Erekat, secretary general of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, condemned the remarks as amounting to "land theft" with US complicity.

The comments come with Netanyahu under pressure from right-wing politicians to move ahead with legislation that would apply Israeli sovereignty to settlements in the West Bank.

Two lawmakers, including one from Netanyahu's party, have proposed such legislation.

Netanyahu blocked it from being advanced on Sunday, with officials citing the need to focus on security issues following a confrontation that led to Israeli air strikes in Syria at the weekend.

Unilateral annexation of settlements would be sure to draw international outrage, though Netanyahu's government has been bolstered by the unstinting support of US President Donald Trump.

Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital in December in a move praised by Netanyahu as "historic" but denounced by the Palestinians and most of the rest of the world.

But as Netanyahu's comments made headlines on Monday and US officials failed to confirm the discussions he spoke of, an Israeli official issued a clarification.

Netanyahu "did not present the United States with specific annexation proposals, and in any case the United States did not give its consent to the proposals", the official said on condition of anonymity.

"Israel updated the United States on various proposals raised in the (parliament), and the United States expressed its clear position that it seeks to advance President Trump's peace plan."

The official added that Netanyahu's position "is that if the Palestinians persist in their refusal to negotiate peace, Israel will present its own alternatives".

- 'Not necessarily sure' -

While Israel would expect to retain certain settlements in any two-state peace deal, longstanding international consensus has been that their status must be negotiated.

The same consensus has been in place for decades regarding the status of Jerusalem, with the Palestinians wanting the Israeli-annexed eastern sector of the city as the capital of their future state.

Israeli settlements are located in what is known as Area C of the West Bank, which accounts for more than 60 percent of the Palestinian territory.

Annexing all settlements would leave little space for a Palestinian state.

Netanyahu heads what is seen as the most right-wing government in Israeli history, and prominent ministers openly oppose a Palestinian state.

Those who oppose a Palestinian state advocate for Israel to annex most of the West Bank, citing Jews' historical ties to the land from the biblical era.

Netanyahu says he wants the Palestinians to govern themselves, but in recent months has declined to specify whether that would mean an independent Palestinian state or some lesser form of autonomy.

He has stressed recently that Israel must retain security control in the Palestinian territories under any peace arrangement.

While Trump has offered strong support of Israel, he said in an interview published Sunday that he was "not necessarily sure" the country was seeking to reach a peace agreement with the Palestinians.

"Right now, I would say the Palestinians are not looking to make peace," Trump said in the interview with right-wing Israeli paper Israel Hayom.

"And I am not necessarily sure that Israel is looking to make peace."

In a rare rebuke, he also said Israeli settlement building "complicates" peace efforts.New York state has filed a lawsuit against disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein for "egregious violations" of civil rights

New York's top state prosecutor sought to impose conditions Monday on investors seeking to buy The Weinstein Company, saying executives who facilitated years of abusive behavior by Harvey Weinstein could not be allowed to remain at the film studio.

An investor group led by former Obama administration official and businesswoman Maria Contreras-Sweet was poised to close a deal to buy The Weinstein Company for a reported $500 million, before New York suddenly filed the lawsuit on Sunday.

But state attorney general Eric Schneiderman said any deal should embody three principles: adequate compensation for victims, protection for employees and the removal of those people who were complicit in Weinstein's misconduct for 12 years.

"They knew what was happening. It was flagrant. It was flamboyant. They knew how pervasive it was and not only did they fail to stop it, they enabled it and covered it up," Schneiderman said.

It was the latest twist in the controversy that ignited in October when allegations of sexual harassment, assault and rape first surfaced against Weinstein, the producer of several Oscar-winning films.

The film mogul's career was shattered by the claims, now made by more than 100 women and spanning several decades, and the subsequent nationwide reckoning about harassment and abuse has ended the careers of a litany of powerful men.

Schneiderman complained that the deal as originally drawn up would have shielded top executives who covered up Weinstein's abuse, muzzled his victims with non-disclosure agreements and would not have compensated any of the victims.

"A deal that essentially removes the two Weinstein brothers but leaves the rest of management intact, we think, should be unacceptable," he said, singling out chief operating officer David Glasser, whom he said had been expected to be named CEO.

A compensation fund outlined in the deal would have been dedicated to legal fees and other expenses, not the women themselves, Schneiderman told a news conference.

"If any prospective buyers are truly interested in turning the page and doing right by TWC's employees who were abused for years... they can and will fix these problems with the deal," he said.

"We have never seen anything as despicable as what we have seen here," he added, in reference to misconduct at the company from 2005 to 2017.

If a sale were finalized that did not meet the three principles, his office could potentially request a temporary restraining order.

"If I were trying to purchase the assets of the company, I would want to negotiate a settlement of this complaint as a part of the deal," Schneiderman said.

- 'Very fluid' -

The Wall Street Journal said the deal fell apart because the lawsuit introduced too much uncertainty and that the company would now likely enter bankruptcy reorganization.

But a source close to the talks insisted to AFP that negotiations were still on, despite the "new perspective" created by Schneiderman's comments.

Discussions are "very fluid," the source said.

"I hope that this deal does not go away for these people's jobs because then there will be nobody monitoring anything," Weinstein's brother Bob -- the current head of the company -- was quoted as saying by the Journal.

Harvey Weinstein

Harvey Weinstein, 65, is being investigated by British and US police, but has not been charged with any crime.

He denies having non-consensual sex and is reportedly in treatment for sex addiction.

The New York lawsuit alleges that female assistants were required to facilitate Weinstein's sex life as a condition of employment and clean up after his sexual encounters, even going so far as returning items of clothing left behind.

Prosecutors said Weinstein made verbal threats to "kill" several staff or their families, that assistants were taught "how to dress and smell more attractive" and that his drivers were required to keep condoms and erectile dysfunction injections in the car.

"While Mr Weinstein's behavior was not without fault, there certainly was no criminality," his lawyer Ben Brafman, one of America's most celebrated criminal defense attorneys, has hit back in response.

"At the end of the inquiry, it will be clear that Harvey Weinstein promoted more women to key executive positions than any other industry leader and there was zero discrimination."French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian appears at the Elysee Palace in Paris on January 30, 2018

France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Monday urged Iraq to push for national reconciliation with its Sunnis and Kurds ahead of "inclusive" elections.

On a visit to Baghdad following the country's December declaration of victory over the Islamic State group, he said France would play its part in the country's reconstruction and called for peaceful general elections in May.

"The electoral process (must) take place under the best conditions and be based on an inclusive logic," he said, urging respect for "the different communities of the whole of Iraq, be it the Sunnis, the Yazidis, the Christian minorities, the Kurds."

"We are in a period when Iraq needs stability, reconstruction and reconciliation," he added, saying that would pave the way to "peaceful elections and... an inclusive government".

Le Drian, who previously visited Baghdad in August last year, also met Iraq's Shiite Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, Sunni President Fuad Massum and Kurdish parliament speaker Salim al-Juburi.

France has been a key member of the US-led military coalition fighting IS after the jihadist group seized large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria in 2014.

Baghdad is looking to drum up funds at a reconstruction conference in neighbouring Kuwait from Monday to Wednesday after announcing the nationwide defeat of IS.

Officials say it needs nearly $90 billion to rebuild after three years of war against IS.

"We have been present in the fight against Daesh, we must be present in peace," Le Drian said, using an Arabic acronym for IS.

"We were there to participate in the coalition. We will also be there in the reconstruction phase," he added.

Iraq's Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari called for French expertise to be used in the reconstruction.

- 'Jihadists' face execution -

Le Drian said he had told officials France opposed the death penalty for two French women awaiting trial in Iraq over accusations of joining IS.

They risk execution under the country's counter-terrorism law.

"As happens every time a French is potentially condemned, we act very strongly to make our position known, but for now the procedure has not started," he said.

But he added that suspected jihadists should face trial in the countries where they committed their "crimes".

The United Nations urged Iraq to halt all executions, saying 106 took place in the country last year.

Iraq is still reeling from the rise of IS and the punishing fightback it took to crush the jihadists, with swathes of its territory in ruins and millions of people displaced.

Authorities in the resource-rich nation say there has been a heavy toll on oil, electricity and manufacturing infrastructure, as well as basic services such as water and sanitation.

Iraq needs $88.2 billion to rebuild after years of war against the Islamic State group, Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili said Monday.

In 2017, France lent 430 million euros (more than $500 million) to oil-rich Iraq, whose coffers have suffered from the war against IS and a drop in world crude prices.

Le Drian also headed to Iraqi Kurdistan to meet leaders of the autonomous region, hit by a political and economic crisis after a September independence referendum bitterly opposed by Baghdad.

The French minister is then to head to Kuwait to attend the Iraq reconstruction conference on Tuesday and a meeting of the anti-IS coalition with his US counterpart Rex Tillerson.The United States is urging the Democratic Republic of Congo to use paper ballots in its December elections to maintain credibility

The United States urged the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday to scrap plans to use electronic voting for the first time in elections this year, saying it risked undermining the credibility of the historic polls.

After much delay, the DR Congo will hold elections on December 23 that are expected to pave the way to the first peaceful transfer of power in the vast mineral-rich country, ending President Joseph Kabila's 17-year-rule.

US Ambassador Nikki Haley told a Security Council informal meeting that the election commission's plan to use electronic voting for the first time posed "an enormous risk."

"These elections must be held by paper ballot so there is no question by the Congolese people about the result," said Haley. "The US has no appetite to support an electronic voting system."

E-ballots have never been tested in DR Congo, Haley said, adding that "employing an unfamiliar technology for the first time during a crucial election is an enormous risk".

"It has the potential to seriously undermine the credibility of elections that so many have worked hard to see have happen."

Some 46 million registered voters will go the polls on December 23 to elect a president and to fill seats in the national parliament and provincial legislatures.

Electoral commission president Corneille Nangaa said the use of "voting machines" would reduce costs and the amount of equipment to be deployed in the 90,000 voting stations.

Rejecting criticism, Nangaa said the commission, known as the CENI, expected support from its partners -- "not resistance and negative actions towards our efforts."

Human Rights Watch's Central African director Ida Sawyer told the council that the new electronic voting machines "create new opportunities for fraud and the way votes are tallied."

"Many Congolese will need to be shown how to use the machines, preventing them from casting a secret ballot," said Sawyer.

The Security Council is stepping up its focus on the Democratic Republic of Congo as it heads toward the December polls, with concerns over a possible outbreak of violence.

Kabila, 46, has not yet clearly stated whether he will step aside in the elections.A car drives past a damaged mosque in the eastern Syrian city of Deir Ezzor in this November 5, 2017 file photo

Russian citizens died last week in eastern Syria, where a US-led coalition bombed pro-regime fighters to fend off an attack on its local allies, groups representing them said Monday.

Vladimir Loginov, a 52-year-old from Russia's western Kaliningrad region "died in an unequal battle in the area of Syria's Deir Ezzor," according to a statement by the Baltic Cossack Union in Kaliningrad.

The statement said Loginov was "heroically defending our Motherland in its far reaches from crazy savages" when he was killed on February 7.

The local Cossack ataman (leader) Maksim Buga told AFP that Loginov had been a sapper working in Syria as a volunteer with other Cossacks since late last year.

Buga could not explain the exact circumstances of the "battle", but it happened the same day the US-led coalition killed at least 100 regime and allied fighters in Deir Ezzor province, after positions held by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces were attacked by pro-regime fighters.

At the time of the attack, the Russian defence ministry said "there are no Russian servicemen in Deir-Ezzor".

However, many Russian citizens are fighting in Syria as mercenaries working for a private military company called Wagner, according to numerous reports.

Another Russian, Kirill Ananyev, was also killed in Syria on February 7, the nationalist Other Russia organisation said on its VK social networking page.

Ananyev was killed "in battle on the Euphrates near the Syrian town Khsham," the group said.

Buga said he "cannot say" whether Loginov fought for Wagner, though he said he "probably received payments" for his "volunteer" involvement.

"Our Cossacks are there as part of a volunteer group," he told AFP.

Cossacks are a paramilitary pro-Russian association dating back to tsarist times.

In October, two Russian citizens were captured by the Islamic State group, their respective paramilitary associations said. A brother of one of the men said he was in Syria with Wagner.

Their fate is unknown.

Conflict Intelligence Team, which monitors social networks for information about Russians in Syria, said at least three other Russians also died in Deir Ezzor on February 7.

- Presidential politics -

Russian liberal presidential candidate Grigory Yavlinsky on Monday called on President Vladimir Putin to explain why many Russians appear to have died in clashes last week.

"If massive Russian casualties took place, then relevant officials... must announce this to the country and find out who is responsible," Yavlinsky, who is running on the ticket of the opposition Yabloko party in the March polls, wrote on Facebook.

"I demand to explain why Russian citizens are participating in ground operations in Syria despite declarations by the president and defence minister about the pullout of troops from this country," he wrote.

The Russian military has fought a campaign for over two years in Syria, launched in September 2015 in support of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, helping to turn around the multi-front war.

Putin said in December that Moscow's military brief in the Syrian conflict has been largely completed and ordered a partial pullout of the country's troops.A file picturing showing the former Iraqi trade minister Abdel Falah al-Sudani (L) who was sentenced February 12, 2018 to 21 years in jail for corruption. He is seen in a 2009 picture

Iraq on Monday sentenced a former trade minister to 21 years in jail for corruption, weeks after Interpol handed him to authorities, a government source said.

Abdel Falah al-Sudani, who served as trade minister following the 2003 US-led invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein, was handed two seven-year sentences for "negligence" by an anti-corruption court.

He was also sentenced to seven additional years for misconduct, bringing the total to 23.

Sudani, a 70-year-old who also holds British citizenship, had been placed on an Interpol wanted list in June 2014 and arrested at Beirut's international airport in September last year.

Interpol handed him over to Iraqi authorities on January 25.

Sudani served as trade minister from 2006 to 2009 in the government of ex-premier Nuri al-Maliki following the 2003 US-led invasion.

In 2012, the former minister, who belongs to the Dawa party of Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, was sentenced in absentia to seven years imprisonment for corruption, but faced retrial after his arrest and extradition.

He still faces trials in six other cases.

During his mandate he was linked to a scandal over the importation of adulterated tea.

In 2009, he was arrested as he tried to flee Iraq after having been sacked and charged. He was released on payment of a bail of $43,000 but fled again.

Iraq in 2016 was ranked 11th from bottom on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index.

Sudani's return was "the first time that Interpol responds to a government request at that level," a government source said when he was handed over in January.Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) meets Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas who is visiting Moscow in a bid to secure support after the US outraged Palestinians and their allies by recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Monday at the start of talks with Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas that he had discussed the Middle East conflict with his US counterpart Donald Trump.

"I just spoke with American President Trump," Putin told Abbas before continuing the talks behind closed doors. "Obviously we spoke about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict."

The Palestinian leader was visiting Moscow in a bid to secure Putin's support after Trump outraged the Palestinians and their allies by recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The "situation is far from what we want to see," Putin said, adding that he has "always supported the Palestinian people".

"It is very important for us to know your personal opinion in order to set the record straight and put in place a common approach to solve this problem," Putin told his guest.

Trump told Putin that "now is the time to work toward an enduring peace agreement", according to a White House statement.

Abbas has refused any contact with Trump's administration since Washington's decision at the end of last year.

"Given the atmosphere created by the United State's actions, we ... refuse any cooperation with the United States as a mediator," said Abbas.

"In case of an international meeting, we ask that the United States be not the only mediator, but just one of the mediators."

Abbas's meeting with Putin came two weeks after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also visited Moscow.

Netanyahu on Monday said he had been in talks with Washington about annexing settlements in the occupied West Bank, a move condemned by a top Palestinian official as "land theft".

The White House denied Netanyahu's claims, in a rare public show of disunity.

Palestinians see the US Jerusalem decision, which broke with years of international diplomacy, as a denial of their claim to East Jerusalem as the capital of an eventual Palestinian state.

Abbas, who is due to speak at the United Nations Security Council on February 20, has promised his people to work towards full recognition of a Palestinian state by the UN.

Palestinian statehood is recognised by more than 130 countries.A Mai-Mai militiaman walks in the streets of South Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, while South Africans blue helmets of the MONUC (United Nations Mission in Congo) patrol in January 2004

South African troops serving in the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been accused of beating a 17-year-old boy and sexually exploiting women, a UN spokesman said Monday.

UN and South African investigators will conduct a joint probe of the four allegations of misconduct that took place in Kasai province and in North Kivu.

The allegations, which surfaced last week, involve a 17-year-old Congolese boy who was subjected to "physical violence" in eastern Kasai, said spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Given the "serious concern raised by these allegations", the United Nations has asked South Africa to send a team of agents to the DR Congo within five days and that the investigation be completed within 90 days, he added.

The other three allegations concern the sexual exploitation of women in the North Kivu towns of Sake, Beni and Goma, one of whom gave birth to a child and is seeking child support.

Dujarric did not says how many troops were involved.

The military in Pretoria said in a statement that it took the allegations of "torture and assault" in a "serious light".

South Africa's military spokesman Mafi Mgobozi told AFP that the investigators would be dispatched to the DR Congo within days.

Under UN rules, it is up to troop-contributing countries to prosecute their nationals accused of crimes while serving under the UN flag, but the United Nations carries out joint investigations with the national authorities.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has vowed to toughen the UN response to allegations of misconduct against the blue helmets whose mission is to protect vulnerable civilians in conflict zones.

The United Nations has nearly 17,500 troops and police serving in the DR Congo, its biggest mission.

South Africa deployed around 1,300 soldiers as part of a UN intervention brigade trying to bring peace to the conflict-torn eastern DRC region.

In 2015 South Africa recalled home 50 of its peacekeepers for alleged "security breaches".New York state has filed a lawsuit against disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein for "egregious violations" of civil rights

Talks were still on Monday between a group of investors and the troubled Weinstein Company, despite New York prosecutors throwing a spanner in the works by filing a lawsuit against the movie studio, source said Monday.

The deal, led by former Obama administration official and businesswoman Maria Contreras-Sweet to buy The Weinstein Company for a reported $500 million, was widely reported to have been imminent before the state attorney general filed a lawsuit Sunday.

Prosecutors accuse Weinstein, the company and his brother of failing to protect employees from his alleged sexual misconduct despite multiple complaints to human resources.

New York's attorney general said he acted out of fear that the imminent sale could leave victims without adequate redress.

The Wall Street Journal said the deal fell apart because the lawsuit introduced too much uncertainty and that the company would now likely enter bankruptcy reorganization.

But a source close to the talks insisted to AFP that negotiations were still on. "The attorney general's comments have shed a new perspective to the deal," the source admitted, calling discussions "very fluid."

"I hope that this deal does not go away for these people's jobs because then there will be nobody monitoring anything," Bob Weinstein was quoted as saying by the Journal.

The bid from the group of investors led by Contreras-Sweet reportedly included a fund to compensate victims and plans to appoint a majority-woman board.

Weinstein's career went into free fall last October after allegations surfaced that he had sexually harassed, assaulted and even raped women going back 40 years. The accusations now come from more than 100 women.

The twice-married father of five is being investigated by British and US police, but has not been charged with any crime. He denies having non-consensual sex and is reportedly in treatment for sex addiction.Vanessa Trump, Donald Trump's daughter-in-law, was hospitalized as a precuation after a letter containing a powder was mailed to her home

US President Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Vanessa was taken to a New York hospital Monday as a precaution after a "suspicious package" containing an unidentified powder arrived at her home, police said.

The letter was sent to Donald Trump Jr, the president's eldest son, and contained a mysterious substance, according to police.

"The powder was tested and was found to be not hazardous," a spokeswoman told AFP.

US media had reported the letter contained white powder.

The Secret Service said "an active investigation" was underway of the "suspicious package addressed to one of our protectees received today in New York."

NBC News said Vanessa Trump, a mother of five, was taken to New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical Center strictly as a precaution, saying there was no indication that anyone suffered any injuries and no sign that the substance was dangerous.

Her husband and brother-in-law Eric Trump both live in New York and run the family real-estate business, taking over after their father took office in January 2017.Namata Diteng, the deputy head of the anglophone Batibo district, has been missing since Sunday, when his burnt-out car was found in an isolated area

Cameroon's army said on Monday that it was continuing to search for a local official after separatists in a restive English-speaking region claimed to have captured him.

Namata Diteng, the deputy head of the anglophone Batibo district, has been missing since Sunday, when his burnt-out car was found in an isolated area.

He had been meant to preside over local festivities for Cameroon Youth Day, a controversial day in the country's two anglophone regions -- in the northwest and southwest -- where dozens of people have been killed since October after a violent crackdown on protests against the mainly French-speaking government.

The leader of an anglophone separatist movement, Ayaba Lucas Cho, said on social media Sunday that his group had captured Diteng. There were numerous appeals by separatists online to "kill the prisoner" of the "colonial army".

Army spokesman Colonel Didier Badjeck told AFP that Cameroon forces were continuing their search for Diteng on Monday night.

Badjeck also dismissed as "fake news" a picture of a dead man circulating online that some separatists claimed was Diteng.

A week-long curfew was imposed on Saturday after separatists made threats on social media to disrupt the celebrations on February 11, the date a referendum was held in 1961 on whether the English-speaking regions would join French-speaking Cameroon.

Cameroon forces killed 23 assailants on Sunday in the southwestern village of Kembong, Badjeck said, in an attack in which three soldiers also died.

Badjeck said there was another separatist attack on a police station in Ekok, in the southwest of the country near the border with Nigeria, on Sunday night.

Members of the Cameroonian army and the Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR) "routed the attackers", he said, adding that "15 terrorists" were arrested in the area on Monday.

The bloodshed is the latest episode in an escalating crisis in the country's southwest and northwest regions, home to an English-speaking minority that accounts for about a fifth of the population.

Many English-speakers have accused the francophone majority of discrimination and that has fuelled a separatist movement.

In October, the separatists declared the anglophone regions as the self-proclaimed republic of "Ambazonia", prompting a forceful reaction by the government.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem on February 11, 2018

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday he has discussed legislation with the United States that would annex settlements in the occupied West Bank, but the White House denied it in a rare show of disunity.

Netanyahu later issued a clarification somewhat backing away from the deeply controversial statement.

Annexing settlements would severely damage remaining prospects for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and draw international outrage, but Netanyahu has been under heavy political pressure to support it.

"Regarding the issue of applying sovereignty, I can tell you that I have for some time been speaking with the Americans about it," Netanyahu told lawmakers from his Likud party, according to comments relayed by a spokesman.

Netanyahu said he wanted to coordinate any such "historic" move with the United States because of the country's strategic importance to Israel, his spokesman said.

Some Israeli media interpreted the comments as the first time Netanyahu expressed support for annexing the settlements.

But when it became clear the White House was not confirming the remarks, Netanyahu's office issued a clarification.

Netanyahu "did not present the United States with specific annexation proposals, and in any case the United States did not give its consent to the proposals," an Israeli official said on condition of anonymity.

"Israel updated the United States on various proposals raised in the (parliament), and the United States expressed its clear position that it seeks to advance President Trump's peace plan."

The official added that Netanyahu's position "is that if the Palestinians persist in their refusal to negotiate peace, Israel will present its own alternatives".

White House spokesman Josh Raffel said "reports that the United States discussed with Israel an annexation plan for the West Bank are false."

"The United States and Israel have never discussed such a proposal, and the president's focus remains squarely on his Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative."

Saeb Erekat, secretary general of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, had condemned Netanyahu's earlier remarks as amounting to "land theft" with US complicity.

A spokesman for Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas warned such measures could only "lead to more tension and instability".

"They will eliminate all international efforts to save the political process," said Nabil Abu Rudeina.

- Limits to backing? -

Netanyahu faces pressure from right-wing politicians to move ahead with legislation that would apply Israeli sovereignty to settlements in the West Bank.

Two lawmakers, including one from Netanyahu's party, have proposed such legislation.

Netanyahu blocked it from being advanced on Sunday, with officials citing the need to focus on security issues following a confrontation that led to Israeli air strikes in Syria at the weekend.

Israel has sought to take advantage of Trump's strong support, highlighted by his recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital in December, called "historic" by Netanyahu but denounced by the Palestinians and most of the rest of the world.

Monday's episode showed there may be limits to Trump's backing as he pledges to reach what he calls the "ultimate deal" -- Israeli-Palestinian peace.

While Israel would expect to retain certain settlements in any two-state peace deal, longstanding international consensus has been that their status must be negotiated.

The same consensus has been in place for decades regarding the status of Jerusalem, with the Palestinians wanting the Israeli-annexed eastern sector of the city as the capital of their future state.

Israeli settlements are located in what is known as Area C of the West Bank, which accounts for more than 60 percent of the Palestinian territory.

Annexing all settlements would leave little space for a Palestinian state.

Netanyahu heads what is seen as the most right-wing government in Israeli history, and prominent ministers openly oppose a Palestinian state.

Those who oppose a Palestinian state advocate for Israel to annex most of the West Bank, citing Jews' historical ties to the land from the biblical era.

Netanyahu says he wants the Palestinians to govern themselves, but in recent months has declined to specify whether that would mean an independent Palestinian state or some lesser form of autonomy.

He has stressed recently that Israel must retain security control in the Palestinian territories under any peace arrangement.

While Trump has offered strong support of Israel, he said in an interview published Sunday that he was "not necessarily sure" the country was seeking to reach a peace agreement with the Palestinians.

"Right now, I would say the Palestinians are not looking to make peace," Trump said in the interview with right-wing Israeli paper Israel Hayom.

"And I am not necessarily sure that Israel is looking to make peace."

In a rare rebuke, he also said Israeli settlement building "complicates" peace efforts.

Separately, Abbas met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Monday.

Putin said at the start of the talks that he "just spoke" with Trump on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

mib-jjm-arb-mjs/dvIsmail Haniya, the leader of the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas that Israel has accused Turkey of aiding, is pictured delivering a speech in Gaza City in December, 2017

Israel on Monday accused Turkey of helping the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas to gain in military strength, following its arrest and deportation of a Turkish citizen.

The Shin Bet intelligence agency said the movement's "economic and military activity in Turkey takes place unhindered as Turkish officials turn a blind eye and -- on occasion -- encourage it".

"This activity relies on -- inter alia -- business platforms that serve Hamas in laundering funds that are transferred to Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) and used in recruiting Israelis to its ranks," it said.

Shin Bet said Turkish national Cemil Tekeli was arrested on January 1 on suspicion of aiding Hamas and later deported.

His alleged accomplice, Dharam Jabarin, an Arab Israeli, had also been arrested and is to be put on trial, the agency said.

"In Tekeli's investigation, it was learned that Turkey contributes to the military strengthening of Hamas," according to Shin Bet, which said the movement had laundered millions of dollars through Turkey.

Turkey has condemned a US decision to put the head of Hamas, which rules Gaza, on its terror blacklist, saying it hoped the move would not have a negative impact on Ankara's humanitarian aid to the Palestinian territory.The proposed Pentagon budget calls for an additional 25,900 troops across the services, as well as major investments in aircraft, ships, ground systems and missile defense

The Pentagon on Monday unveiled a mammoth budget proposal for fiscal 2019 that would see a more than 10 percent boost in spending and add thousands more troops across the US military services.

The $686 billion spending plan -- up from $612 billion in 2018 -- is framed in the context of the Pentagon's new national defense strategy, and comes in stark contrast to the State Department's budget, which calls for steep cuts in spending on aid and diplomacy.

Pentagon chief Jim Mattis has warned of a new "Great Power" competition with Russia and China and wants to increase the size of the military, introduce new ships and weapons, and improve readiness -- all while operating across multiple theaters in Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

"It is increasingly apparent that China and Russia want to shape a world consistent with their authoritarian values and, in the process, replace the free and open order that has enabled global security and prosperity since World War II," Pentagon comptroller David Norquist told reporters.

"If unaddressed, the eroding US military advantage versus China and Russia could undermine our ability to deter aggression and coercion in key strategic regions."

Though the US spends more money on defense than the next eight militaries combined, Norquist said the 2019 budget request merely would put Pentagon spending back on track to where it would have been had the administration of Barack Obama not implemented strict spending caps.

The budget from President Donald Trump's administration calls for an additional 25,900 troops, as well as major investments in aircraft, ships, ground systems and missile defense.

- Skinny at State -

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has commissioned a "re-design" of the department, despite resistance from career staff, and he is struggling to fill key senior posts

The State Department, meanwhile, published its own budget proposal for 2019 calling for deep cuts, though Congress has already dismissed the idea as a non-starter.

In the case of the State Department and USAID, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson requested $37.8 billion, up only slightly from the $37.6 billion 2018 request.

To this was added an extra $1.5 billion, in a separate addendum to reflect higher caps allowed under a recent Congressional budget deal, bringing the total request to $39.3 billion.

In 2017, the last year of the previous US administration, the department spent $55.6 billion, so if Congress -- which is working on a joint budget for 2018 and 2019 -- had approved the 2018 request, it would have meant a more than 30 percent cut.

Instead, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle argued that such a draconian reduction would be dangerous, with US diplomats working on a number of international crises.

Tillerson has commissioned a "re-design" of the State Department, despite resistance from career staff, and he is struggling to fill key senior posts.

When last year's authorization request was filed, Senator Bob Corker, the Republican chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, said even studying it would be a "waste of time."

Corker's colleague Senator Lindsey Graham said the 2018 plan was "dead on arrival," adding: "This budget destroys soft power, it puts our diplomats at risk and it's going nowhere."

Although the top line figure remains around the same as the previous suggestion, Tillerson's latest plan does move some funding around to take into account new US priorities.

The budget line for "embassy security, construction and maintenance," for example, increases from $1.42 billion in the 2018 plan to $1.66 billion in the 2019 draft.

This comes as the White House pushes to accelerate implementation of its controversial decision to re-locate the US embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.No caption

An Oscar-nominated Syrian documentary following rescuers under regime bombardment in Aleppo was screened Monday before dozens of spectators in the rebel-held city of Idlib.

"Last Men in Aleppo" by Syrian Feras Fayyad and the rebels' Aleppo Media Centre shows the work of the feted White Helmet volunteer rescuers during the brutal government seige.

Government forces are now conducting a Russian-backed offensive to regain territory in Idlib province, the last one that had remained fully outside the regime's control.

Spectators on the campus of Idlib University laughed, cried and sat in stunned silence as they watched scenes of carnage and loss in the documentary.

"It stirred memories of the last difficult days in Aleppo and the many people who died before our eyes," said Mohamad al-Shaghel, who fled the city.

Syrians attend the screening of the Oscar nominated film 'Last Men in Aleppo' at the university of Idlib in the country's rebel-held province, on February 12, 2018

The December 2016 defeat of the rebels in Aleppo after a ferocious onslaught proved a major turning point in the war as leader Bashar al-Assad and his Russian backers seized the upper hand.

"What the heroes of this film lived through is what all Syrians have lived through," said Alaa al-Abdallah, the director of the university's media institute.

The film which already won a grand jury prize at the Sundance Film Festival is nominated for best documentary at this years Oscars.

Last year another film about the White Helmet civilian rescuers won an Oscar for best short documentary.Barack and Michelle Obama attend the unveiling of their new portraits with their respective artists, Kehinde Wiley (L) and Amy Sherald (R), at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington

Former US first couple Barack and Michelle Obama unveiled their portraits at Washington's National Gallery Monday, two contrasting works by African American artists that shocked and delighted.

The paintings by Kehinde Wiley and Amy Sherald, commissioned by the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, were revealed at a star-studded event that is a rite of passage for most former American presidents.

The museum holds portraits of all American ex-commanders in chief, but these latest additions stand in stark contrast to the more buttoned-down approach of traditional presidential portraiture.

Both show their subjects -- America's first black presidential couple -- looking cool and confident, a stark contrast to the bubbling swamp of anger and braggadocio that is political Washington today.

Kehinde Wiley unveils his portrait of ex-president Barack Obama

Wiley painted the ex-president against a signature lush botanical backdrop.

Obama, in a serious seated pose at the edge of a wooden chair, is enmeshed in a thicket of leaves and flowers that recall the tropical hues of the 44th president's home state of Hawaii.

"How about that? That's pretty sharp," Obama joked, as he thanked staff and friends in attendance.

The internet quickly got busy making jokes about him being stuck in a bush.

- 'Charm and hotness' -

Amy Sherald unveils her portrait of former first lady Michelle Obama

Obama also praised Sherald for "so spectacularly capturing the grace and beauty and intelligence and charm and hotness of the woman that I love."

The Baltimore-based artist rendered Michelle Obama in her trademark grayscale, with only a few splashes of coral, pink and yellow, against an eggshell blue backdrop.

The resulting image makes the subject's race almost an afterthought.

Obama's dress -- true to form for a first lady whose wardrobe was often the focus of attention -- dominates the frame.

As in Sherald's previous paintings of African American subjects, Michelle Obama appears poised and powerful as she looks down on the viewer.

Obama's portrait will be hung alongside those of former presidents, including the Lansdowne portrait of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart.

Michelle Obama's likeness will hang at the gallery until November this year.

The official portraits of the Obamas, which will be displayed the White House, have not yet been commissioned.North Korea's ambassador to the UN, Ja Song Nam, has met with the United Nations head of management to discuss the nearly $121,500 it owes to the world body

The United Nations is in talks with North Korea over its unpaid dues, which Pyongyang said it could not settle because of banking sanctions, a spokesman said Monday.

North Korean Ambassador Ja Song Nam met Friday with the UN head of management to discuss the money owed to the world body.

North Korea maintains that it is unable to transfer nearly $121,500 owed to the United Nations after its Foreign Trade Bank, which handles most foreign currency exchanges, was put on a sanctions blacklist in August.

In a statement, the North Korean mission slammed "illegal and unlawful" sanctions for preventing Pyongyang from "honoring its obligation as a UN member-state."

Countries that fail to pay their dues can eventually lose their voting rights at the UN General Assembly, if the amount totals more than the two previous year's contributions.

UN management chief Jan Beagle told the North Korean mission "that the UN would work with them to try to find a way through which they could pay," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

One solution would be for North Korea to open an account at the UN Federal Credit Union, which serves mostly UN employees.

There are currently eight countries that have lost their voting rights due to arrears: the Central African Republic, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Grenada, Libya, Suriname, Venezuela and Yemen.

Led by the United States, the Security Council last year imposed three new sets of sanctions on North Korea aimed at piling pressure on Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear and missile tests.

The United States wants to isolate North Korea by cutting off its access to international banking.Riot police get ready to disperse people demonstrating to denounce the results of the local elections, on February 6, 2018 in Conakry

At least two men died Monday in clashes between demonstrators and riot police in Guinea, following protests over local election results and the resumption of a teachers' strike, a government spokesman said.

"There have been two deaths today in circumstances yet to be established," said spokesman Albert Damantang Camara.

"The two were killed by police during clashes with youths in Hamdallaye district," an opposition fiefdom in the capital Conakry, a security source said.

Demonstrators gathered less than a week after at least 50 people were arrested over an arson attack that killed five children, in post-election violence in central Guinea.

The opposition has claimed "massive fraud" by the authorities in the February 4 local election, leading to unrest in the West African country which has now claimed at least nine deaths, including four minors.

With around half of the results from 342 communes now declared, the independent electoral commission Ceni put the party of President Alpha Conde neck and neck with that of opposition leader and former prime minister Cellou Dalein Diallo.

The vote was the first of its kind since a military dictatorship ended a decade ago and followed eight years of delays blamed on a lack of funds, political infighting and the 2013-16 Ebola crisis.

- 'Discourse of hatred' -

Opposition leaders denounced the poll, alleging vote rigging with proxy ballots at several polling stations in favour of Conde's party.

Mohamed Ibn Chambas, special representative for the United Nations Secretary-General in the area, said in a statement Monday after a five-day visit to Conakry it was "fundamental for the Ceni to be able to carry out its work calmly and serenely."

He urged rival factions to put aside their "discourse of hatred, acts of violence and violations of freedoms and fundamental rights."

The Economic Community of West African States alo urged an end to the violence on Sunday.

The resumption of a strike by teachers meanwhile drew widespread support in Conakry and several provincial cities, according to teachers and witnesses interviewed by AFP, though the government said the dispute was mainly confined to primary and secondary schools.

Teachers had in December agreed to suspend for two months a month-old stoppage over salaries which drew widespread support from students following an offer by religious leaders to mediate talks with the government.

Several trade unions had also threatened a nationwide "general strike" if the striking teachers were punished.Actor Mandy Patinkin poses on his Hollywood Walk of Fame star

Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor Mandy Patinkin used his Walk of Fame star-dedicating ceremony in Hollywood Monday to make an impassioned speech calling for respect and dignity for refugees.

The 65-year-old Chicago native, best known for playing CIA operative Saul Berenson in Showtime spy drama "Homeland," welcomed an Iraqi refugee to the event and implored the crowd to recognize the plight of the dispossessed.

"I want you to think about these people, who are the most vulnerable among us all over the world, who need our attention, more attention than you can imagine, so that they can have quality lives and bring their children up in a healthy, not war-torn, atmosphere and grow and live and prosper," he said.

Patinkin, whose grandfather fled the Nazis in German-occupied Poland, and whose grandmother escaped the Russian pogroms, has traveled extensively to witness the plight of displaced people since going to Greece in 2015 to help refugees from war-torn Syria.

He said noticing the ethnic diversity of the US squad at the Winter Olympics in South Korea had reminded him of the contribution immigrants had made to the country.

"They are our heroes and our athletes for all time. They represent us," he went on.

"Let us learn to welcome other immigrants without fear, without worry, and learn to trust them and not be guided by fear. They are our teachers."

He told AFP afterwards he felt privileged to be a voice for "those who have no voice, the refugees who are suffering."

"I think the whole world needs to do more. These are human beings. Take care of your neighbors (as) you would take care of yourself," he said.

- Champion of the displaced -

Actor Mandy Patinkin poses with actor Rupert Friend (L) and actress Patti LuPone (R) on his Hollywood Walk of Fame star

Patinkin has portrayed Saul Berenson -- now the CIA's Middle East Division Chief -- on "Homeland" since 2011, earning three Emmys nominations, but it was for CBS medical drama "Chicago Hope" that he won the award in 1995.

Born Mandel Bruce Patinkin in Chicago on November 30, 1952 to a homemaker and a metal manufacturing entrepreneur, the actor attended a religious school and sang in synagogue choirs.

The father-of-two got into New York's prestigious performing arts conservatory the Juilliard, where he met Kelsey Grammer, and later recommended his friend to play Frasier Crane on NBC sit-com "Cheers."

Patinkin, who sings concerts in Yiddish and has featured on 14 records, cut his teeth in musical theater, winning a Tony Award in 1980 for playing Che in "Evita," which starred Patti LuPone in the title role.

"If he weren't a Broadway musical star he would have been a cantor. If he weren't a television star he would have been a Peace Corps volunteer, a first responder," the actress said.

"He would still champion the displaced. He would still travel to refugee camps of human beings -- not Syrians or the Rohingya or the world's oppressed, Mandy sees only humans."

Patinkin's 40-year movie career includes roles in "Ragtime," "Yentl," "The Princess Bride," "Alien Nation" and "Dick Tracy."

A new season of "Homeland" debuted on Sunday.FRESNO, Calif. (AP) - A French citizen who was high on methamphetamine when he fatally struck a California motorcyclist while driving a big rig has been sentenced.

The Fresno Bee reports Nicolas Laurent Appert was sentenced Friday to 12 years and four months in prison for killing Eric Leoni. Appert will be deported back to France after he serves his prison sentence.

Appert, who was living in San Francisco at the time on a student visa, had no prior criminal record.

Leoni was killed April 24 while driving his Harley-Davidson to work.

Authorities say Leoni was stopped for a red light on eastbound Mount Whitney at Highway 41 when his Harley-Davidson was struck from behind by Appert, who was driving a stolen Freightliner truck.

In a letter, Appert told Leoni's family he was sorry.

___

Information from: The Fresno Bee, http://www.fresnobee.comNEW YORK (AP) - Highlights from media coverage of the Pyeongchang Olympics:

RATINGS: An estimated 21.4 million viewers watched NBC's prime-time coverage on Saturday night, with the number increasing to 24.2 million when consumption on the digital live stream and NBCSN cable network are added. Both figures are down from the 25.1 million who watched the corresponding Saturday in Sochi four years ago. But it was a better showing than the first Saturday night from the Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro two years ago. NBC's dominance of the TV landscape was thorough: ABC, CBS and Fox had a combined 6.1 million viewers for their prime-time fare.

SORRY: NBC apologized to South Korea for a remark by analyst Joshua Cooper Ramo on Friday's coverage of the opening ceremony. Ramo credited Japan as an influence for South Korea's resurgence over the past three decades. That angered many South Koreans with memories of Japan as an occupying force from 1910 to 1945.

Simen Hegstad Krueger, of Norway, celebrates after winning the during the men's 15km/15km skiathlon cross-country skiing competition at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

LONG SKI: NBC's team of Al Trautwig and Chad Salmela did well setting the stage and conveying the drama when Norwegian Simen Hegstad Krueger came back to win the 30-kilometer cross-country skiathlon after falling on the first lap. They had a little more trouble as amateur psychologists. Salmela noted at one point that Norway's Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo looked like he was struggling physically, "but I think he's faking it" to deke opponents. Apparently not, since Klaebo finished way out of the running.

___

More AP Olympic coverage: https://wintergames.ap.orgNEW YORK (AP) - Takata Corp's U.S. unit has reached a settlement with representatives of those injured by lethally defective air bags, paving the way for the company to exit Chapter 11 bankruptcy and move forward with a reorganization plan, according to court documents.

The agreement between the Japanese auto parts suppliers, injured drivers and creditors, was outlined in documents filed in a Delaware bankruptcy court. Two groups representing people suing over the air bags have dropped their opposition to the restructuring plan, according to the documents filed on Saturday. Under the settlement, lawsuits will be resolved through a trust fund.

Takata was forced into bankruptcy amid lawsuits, multimillion-dollar fines and crushing recall costs involving the air bags. Key to the restructuring plan is the planned sale of most of its assets to a Chinese-owned rival for $1.6 billion.

Takata's air bag inflators can explode with too much force, spewing shrapnel into drivers and passengers. At least 16 people have died and more than 180 have been injured due to the problem, which has touched off the largest series of automotive recalls in U.S. history. At least 42 million vehicles and as many as 69 million inflators have been recalled in the U.S. More than 100 million inflators have been recalled worldwide.

Thirteen automakers have joined the agreement, including General Motors and Ford Motor Co. and Toyota Motor Corp. The manufacturers, which are both Takata's largest customers and biggest creditors, are indemnified in their agreements with Takata from losses and liabilities related to the air bag inflators.

Takata will file an amended version of the reorganization plan in court, according to the documents.

A spokesman for Takata said the company had no comment on the settlement.JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Missouri lawmakers are considering whether to mark an official day to celebrate sliced bread.

A bill pending in the state House would designate July 7 as Missouri Sliced Bread Day. Supporters say the day is needed to promote tourism in the northern Missouri city of Chillicothe, where the first commercially sliced bread was sold on July 7, 1928.

The city of roughly 9,500 people touts its carb-filled history and holds a Sliced Bread Jam Bluegrass Festival every year as part of celebrations.

The Sliced Bread Day legislation is up for a final vote in the House, which could come in the next week. If approved by House members, the measure still would need to pass the Senate.Two separate crimes against children in recent days have one haunting similarity: authorities have pointed to Voodoo rituals as a possible motive.

But practitioners of Haitian vodou, which adherents spell differently to distinguish it from other variants, say the religion does not sanction violence and fear the crimes will spark a backlash against their community.

'We are being targeted,' said Maude Evans, a Haitian native and Vodou priestess in Boston's Mattapan neighborhood. 'I'm really concerned that that's how it's going to be from now on. They will do things and blame it on Vodou.'

Sisters Rachel Hilaire (left) and Peggy LaBossiere (right) sit in Brockton District Court in Bridgewater, Mass., on February 1 charged with tying down and burning a 5-year-old girl, permanently disfiguring her. The sisters said they burned her to rid her of a demon.

Two sisters in East Bridgewater were arrested late last month after they tied down and burned a 5-year-old girl, permanently disfiguring her, in a 'voodoo ritual' meant to rid her of a demon, authorities say. Peggy LaBossiere, who was arrested with her sister Rachel Hilaire, also is accused of threatening to cut off the head of the girl's 8-year-old brother with a machete.

About a week later in nearby Brockton, officials said, a mother stabbed two of her children in what she described as a ritual involving 'voodoo stuff,' according to court documents. Days later, at a candlelight vigil that drew hundreds of mourners to the crime scene, a local Christian bishop denounced the practice of Voodoo, to cheers from the crowd.

Voodoo refers to religious practices developed by Caribbean slaves who took spiritual traditions from their native Africa and merged them with elements of Christianity and other faiths. Adherents generally believe everything is infused with a spirit and that prayers and other devotional acts will help bring them good health and protection.

Voodoo alludes to spiritual practices that are West African in origin that have merged with Christianity and other religions over time - the practices are heavy on spiritual symbolism (skull and bones, above)

But there has been a movement in recent years in Haiti to refer to the practices as Vodou, which means 'spirit' or 'deity,' to set it apart from U.S. Deep South variants more commonly associated with occult objects like Voodoo dolls and talismans.

The negative portrayal of Voodoo in American culture goes back at least to the Hollywood films of the 1920s and 1930s, said Patrick Bellegarde-Smith, a retired professor of African Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. In 'White Zombie,' a 1932 film that often is credited as the first feature-length zombie flick, Bela Lugosi played an evil Haitian voodoo master who commanded an army of zombies.

Lunine Pierre-Jerome, a Randolph, Massachusetts, resident who was raised in a Haitian Vodou household and still practices privately, is adamant that what is being described as 'voodoo' in these cases is not a reflection of her culture.

'Some see us as worshipping the devil or evil spirits, but that's far from what it is,' Pierre-Jerome, who teaches at Cambridge College in Boston and was a longtime administrator in the Boston public school system.

Evans agreed: 'We don't hurt children. It's about healing.'

Voodoo adherents celebrate their practices in Haiti (above). There are several different types of voodoo practices - adherents fear that their beliefs have been covered unfairly in the media.

The mother of the woman accused of killing her sons had voiced concerns to police about her daughter's mental health and said her daughter had become obsessed recently with a range of conspiracy theories, rituals and mythologies, The Brockton Enterprise reported. It is not clear whether the woman is a follower of Haitian Vodou, and her attorney did not respond to an email sent on Friday.

The women accused of burning the child blew fire in her face and cut her on the arm and in the collar area with a needle-like object, police said. LaBossiere and Hilaire, who are of Haitian descent, said they had performed 'cleansing baths' on the children but denied threatening or harming them, The Enterprise reported. Police said the girl's mother requested the ritual.

The women have pleaded not guilty to mayhem, assault and other charges and are being held without bail. An attorney for LaBossiere declined to comment, and an attorney for Hilaire did not respond to a phone message on Friday.

A spokeswoman for the Plymouth prosecutor's office, which is handling both cases, declined to comment.

'Cleansing baths' designed to free someone from some sort of spiritual force are common in the various forms of the religion, said Jeffrey Anderson, a history professor at the University of Louisiana Monroe who has studied Louisiana Voodoo and Haitian Vodou. But Anderson said he is unaware of any ritual that involves the intentional burning of a child's face and speculated that the woman may have hurt the girl by accident.

Animal sacrifices are also common in Vodou, but 'only the devil may destroy people's life,' Pierre-Jerome said.

Elizabeth McAlister, a religion professor at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut, who specializes in Haitian Vodou and other Afro-Caribbean faiths, also questioned the link between Vodou and the two cases.

'Vodou never, ever sanctions stabbing or any kind of child abuse,' she said. 'It seems nonsensical.'PYEONGCHANG, South Korea (AP) - Jamie Anderson will almost certainly spend more time gazing at her newest Olympic gold medal than watching replays of the slopestyle run she put down to win it.

Nobody, not even the Olympic champion, would want to re-live the ugliness that played out Monday on the sport's biggest stage.

The day Anderson cemented herself as an all-time great by defending her Olympic title will also go down as one of the most unpleasant, dangerous days snowboarding has ever seen.

Jamie Anderson, of the United States, reacts to her score during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Shifting, bitter winds whipped tiny ice pellets across the iced-over jumps at the Phoenix Snow Park and stiffened the orange-colored wind socks in one direction, then another. Hundreds of numbed fans streamed toward the exits while the action was ongoing, and the stands were half empty as the afternoon wore on, with wind chills dipping to 5 degrees (minus-15 degrees Celsius) and below.

Twenty-five riders each took two trips down a course that, by many of their accounts, should not have been open for action. Of the 50 runs, 41 ended with a rider on her backside, or in a face plant, or, in the case of Canadian Spencer O'Brien and a few others, in a slow ride toward the bottom after simply pulling up because they couldn't build enough speed to reach the crest of a ramp.

"All I wanted to do," said fourth-place finisher Silje Norendal, "was sit up top and cry."

This was not just sour grapes.

Even Anderson - the sport's biggest gamer and its No. 1 big-day rider - conceded, "I'm not extremely proud of my run." Her modest score of 83 resulted in a blowout of nearly seven points over silver medalist Laurie Blouin of Canada.

But really, what was Anderson to do? After the qualifying round was scrubbed due to wind a day earlier, all the riders were summoned back for a two-run final and ordered by their world ranking, giving the top-ranked American the privilege of going last.

After watching rider after rider fail to make her way down the course during Run 1, Anderson added a little wax to her board and stood on top, hoping for a 60-second stretch of calm that would allow her to simply stay upright.

"It was a lottery," O'Brien said.

Two weeks ago, Anderson won the Winter X Games with a cab double cork 900 - two head-over-heels flips with 2 twists mixed in. It was one of the gold standards in a sport that prides itself on - in fact, lives for - progression, sometimes at the cost of safety, sanity and everything else.

On this day, Anderson was never tempted to try that kind of trick. Her three jumps at the bottom consisted of a backside 540, a cab 540 and a front 720 - 1 twists, 1 twists and two twists. It was the sort of run that might've won a contest in 2008 - if the rest of the riders were having an off day.

Anderson owned the fact that she won by simply surviving, and also took credit for being one of the few snowboarders who actually wanted to ride.

"I was trying to keep the spirits high, like, 'Let's run it,'" she said. "A handful of the girls were like, 'No, it's not safe,' and things like that. It's not like what we're doing is safe, anyhow."

The 27-year-old from South Lake Tahoe, California, would've been favored to win under any conditions. Her Zen-like mindset is a big part of the equation, and she was ready to go when her alarm went off Monday - wind, snow or shine.

"It's having the experience, and learning to deal with what is," Anderson said. "It's not always going to be perfect. A lot of times, everyone's like, 'It's going to be perfect in a couple days.' But yesterday we canceled the event, and we woke up today, and it was just as windy or worse."

Given the ugliness of the day, a few questions loomed: Why were organizers so quick to cancel the men's downhill Sunday and the women's giant slalom Monday in other parts of the mountains of Pyeongchang but insistent on staging both the men's and women's slopestyle contests? And what considerations were made for NBC, which pays billions to televise these events live in prime time in the United States?

Roby Moresi, the contest director for the International Skiing Federation, told The Associated Press that safety, not TV, was the primary concern, and that winds on the Alpine mountains were much stronger than what whipped around on the slopestyle course. He said the complaints that reporters were hearing at the bottom of the course didn't mirror what officials were hearing up top.

"We didn't get much of a pushback," Moresi said. "Of course, there's a lot at stake and maybe they don't express as much. But we only got complaints from one team. Others were comfortable. Others were telling me, 'You did the right thing by making it happen.'"

Once it was over, many riders felt it was time to count their blessings. Everyone walked away from their falls.

"I'm glad nothing happened to me today," said Austria's Anna Gasser, one of the world's best riders, who fell twice and finished 15th.

But that was all she was glad for.

"I think today," Gasser said, "made us look way worse than we are."

___

More AP Olympic coverage: https://wintergames.ap.org

Jamie Anderson, of the United States, reacts to her score during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Russian athlete Sofya Fedorova jumps during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Reira Iwabuchi, of Japan, crashes during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Jamie Anderson, of the United States, runs the course during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

High winds blow over a tv camera tower along the course during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Yuka Fujimori, of Japan, crashes during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

Jamie Anderson, of the United States, jumps during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Miyabi Onitsuka of Japan crashes during the women's slopestyle final at Phoenix Snow Park during the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Jonathan Hayward/The Canadian Press via AP)JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - A court sentenced the leader of an Islamic State group-affiliated militant network in Indonesia to seven years in prison on Monday for involvement in smuggling guns from the southern Philippines.

Presiding Judge Siti Jamzanah said it was proven that Zainal Anshori "committed a criminal act of terrorism." She said the 43-year-old, his brother Zainal Hasan, who on Monday was sentenced to five years prison, and another militant traveled to a town in northern Sulawesi closest to the Indonesian border with the southern Philippines to collect a cache of weapons including automatic rifles.

Court documents said Anshori also attempted to set up a jihadist training camp in eastern Indonesia.

Suspected Indonesian militant Zainal Anshori enters the court room prior to the start of his sentencing hearing at East Jakarta District Court in Jakarta, Indonesia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. A court sentenced the leader of an Islamic State-affiliated militant network in Indonesia to seven years in prison for his involvement in smuggling guns from the southern Philippines.(AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

Anshori was arrested in April, sparking a failed reprisal attack against police in East Java province which ended with six militants killed in a gunbattle.

The network Anshori led, Jamaah Anshorut Daulah, is believed responsible for a 2016 attack in Jakarta that killed eight people including the four attackers. The U.S. last year designated it as a global terrorist organization.

Indonesia still faces a significant risk of terror attacks despite a sustained crackdown on militants following the 2002 Bali bombings that killed more than 200 people. The crackdown reduced the Jemaah Islamiyah network behind the Bali bombings to remnants but a new generation of would-be jihadists has coalesced behind the IS banner. Though their capacity to launch large-scale attacks is limited, experts say it could be enhanced if Indonesians who fought with IS in Syria and Iraq return home.

Anshori, after a brief discussion with his lawyers, accepted the verdict and will not appeal, the lawyers said. He refused to comment to reporters.

Jamaah Anshorut Daulah is made up of about two dozen extremist groups and was conceived in prison by radical cleric Aman Abdurrahman, his cell mate Iwan Darmawan, also known as Rois, who is on death row for his role in a 2004 Australian Embassy car bombing in Jakarta, and four regular visitors including Anshori.

Anshori became leader in 2015 after two other founders joined IS in Syria.

Court documents said Anshori received $20,000 in cash to collect the rifles and pistols purchased by Mas'ud, a militant who was sentenced to 10 years in prison last week.

Anshori told the court that he failed to collect the weapons after his two followers changed their mind and returned home to Lamongan, an area in Java known as the hometown of several of the Bali bombers.

Suspected Indonesian militan Zainal Anshori enters the court room prior to the start of his sentencing hearing at East Jakarta District Court in Jakarta, Indonesia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. A court sentenced the leader of an Islamic State-affiliated militant network in Indonesia to seven years in prison for his involvement in smuggling guns from the southern Philippines.(AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)BERLIN (AP) - Millions of dressed-up revelers are taking to the streets across Germany to celebrate carnival.

Shrove Monday's street parades in traditional carnival strongholds like Cologne, Duesseldorf and Mainz in western Germany usually draw huge crowds of locals and tourists alike.

Schools are closed in the region so children can attend the popular street parades featuring floats, brass bands and dance groups throwing candy, chocolates and flowers to the spectators.

A so-called Federahannes, a carnivalist of the tradiotal Swabian carnival, jumps with a stick during a parade in Rottweil, southwestern Germany, on Shrove Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Patrick Seeger/dpa via AP)

The costly and intricately built floats often feature huge, unflattering puppets of politicians, making fun of those in power.

The German news agency dpa reported that at the Cologne street parade alone, parade participants would throw 700,000 bars of chocolate and 300,000 bouquets of flowers to spectators.KUWAIT CITY (AP) - Kuwait on Monday opened a week of conferences seeking aid for rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group, seeking tens of billions of dollars for a nation only a generation ago that invaded it.

Authorities estimate Iraq needs $88.2 billion to restore a country smashed after the Sunni extremists seized the country's second-largest city of Mosul and a mass of territory in June 2014.

While the U.S. will not make any new direct aid pledges at the conference, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is expected to announce an over $3 billion financial package, an American official said. Still, far more money will be needed, Iraqi officials say.

A Kuwaiti official stands in front of an illuminated sign for a conference on Iraq being held in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Kuwait this week is hosting a series of conferences on rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

"We finished one battle but we are engaged now with a war for reconstruction," said Mustafa al-Hiti, the head of Iraq's reconstruction fund for areas affected by terrorist operations.

Among the hardest-hit areas is Mosul, which Iraqi forces, aided by Iranian-backed Shiite militias and a U.S.-led coalition, recaptured in July 2017. Their victory came at a steep cost for Mosul, as coalition airstrikes and extremist suicide car bombs destroyed homes and government buildings.

Of the money needed, Iraqi officials estimate $17 billion alone needs to go toward rebuilding homes, the biggest single line item offered Monday on the first day of meetings. The United Nations estimates 40,000 homes need to be rebuilt in Mosul alone.

"The majority of the damage was to western Mosul as it went through one of the worst and fiercest battles in history," said Nofal al-Akoub, the governor of Iraq's Nineveh province. It "led to the total destruction of its infrastructure."

Al-Akoub said $42 billion was needed for his province alone, as it is home to Mosul. Iraq needs some $20 billion now to begin its reconstruction, al-Hiti said.

The war against the Islamic State group displaced more than 5 million people. Only half have returned to their hometowns in Iraq.

However, officials acknowledge a feeling of fatigue from international donors, especially after the wars in Iraq and Syria sparked the biggest mass migration since World War II.

President Donald Trump himself on Monday tweeted that America was "so stupidly spending $7 trillion in the Middle East, it is now time to start investing in OUR country."

Billions of dollars poured into Iraq after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein, with what feels now like little visible effect. While Iraq is OPEC's second-largest crude producer and home to the world's fifth-largest known reserves, it says it needs $7 billion to repair its oil and gas fields. It has struggled to pay international firms running them.

The U.S. alone spent $60 billion over nine years - some $15 million a day - to rebuild Iraq. Around $25 billion went to Iraq's military, which disintegrated during the lightning 2014 offensive of the Islamic State group, which grew out of al-Qaida in Iraq. U.S. government auditors also found massive waste and corruption, fueling suspicions of Western politicians like Trump who want to scale back foreign aid.

The over $3 billion package now planned for Iraq from the Americans will come from the Export-Import Bank of the United States, according to a U.S. official. The official said the package will be structured so that the initial amount could rise to as much as $5 billion over several years. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the package prior to its announcement.

That money would include loans, loan guarantees and insurance devices to encourage American investment in Iraq. It marks something of a turnaround for Trump, who railed against the government agency during his 2016 campaign.

Even in Kuwait, some social media users questioned the focus on Iraq, asking why more wasn't being done in their own country. The Middle East as a whole, especially countries like Kuwait whose deep pockets rely on oil production, have taken a hit in recent years as energy prices crashed and only recently began regaining ground.

Kuwait, hosting the conferences this week, has a deep interest in seeing a stable Iraq, especially after Baghdad's 1990 invasion of their small, oil-rich emirate. It announced $330 million alone had been pledged Monday for Iraq at a humanitarian conference in Kuwait City.

That money is desperately needed as more than 4 million children are in need of humanitarian assistance while 3 million are unable to regularly go to school in Iraq, said Geert Cappelaere, UNICEF's regional director for the Middle East and North Africa. One out of four Iraqi children across the country live in poverty in the nation of 37 million people.

"There may be donor fatigue, but no one today can tell me there isn't money. There is money to continue fighting, there is money to continue agendas that are not serving children," Cappelaere said. "What we are asking today is to put that money where children's interests are and we may get in the Middle East a much-brighter future."

But Iraq needs more than just cash as thousands remain held after the rout of the Islamic State group, including women and children. It must renew its embrace of the rule of law, as well as provide answers to families whose loved ones went missing in the war, said Katharina Ritz, the head of the delegation in Iraq for the International Committee of the Red Cross.

"We know that many people think about, 'OK, it's the second time we have to rebuild Iraq,' ... (but) we have to get it right this time for the Iraqi people," Ritz said.

___

Associated Press writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report.

___

Follow Malak Harb and Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/malakharb and www.twitter.com/jongambrellap .

Officials leave the stage at conference on Iraq being held in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Kuwait this week is hosting a series of conferences on rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

The flags of Kuwait, left, and Iraq, right, fly outside of a conference on Iraq in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Kuwait this week is hosting a series of conferences on rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Mustafa al-Hiti, the head of the Iraq's reconstruction fund for areas affected by terroristic operations, speaks to The Associated Press in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Kuwait this week is hosting a series of conferences on rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Abdulla al-Musaibeeh of Kuwait's Fund for Arab Economic Development speaks to The Associated Press in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Kuwait this week is hosting a series of conferences on rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Nofal al-Akoub, the governor of Iraq's Nineveh province, speaks to The Associated Press in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Kuwait this week is hosting a series of conferences on rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Kuwait's Liberation Tower is seen near a Kuwaiti flag in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Kuwait this week is hosting a series of conferences on rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)CAIRO (AP) - The United States and Egypt on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to battle Islamic militants in the Middle East as U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson held talks with Egyptian officials in Cairo at the start of his week-long trip to the region.

Tillerson and his Egyptian counterpart, Sameh Shoukry, cited productive discussions on regional security and the struggle against the Islamic State group, whose Egyptian affiliate, based in the Sinai Peninsula, has struck military and civilian targets across the Arab world's most populous country.

At a joint news conference with Shoukry, Tillerson said Egypt was an important part of the anti-IS coalition and that Washington was "committed to strengthening this partnership in the years to come."

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, left, and Egyptian Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry hold a press conference after their meeting, at Tahrir Palace, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Khaled Elfiqi/Pool photo via AP)

"We agreed that we would continue our close cooperation on counterterrorism measures, including our joint commitment to the defeat of IS," Tillerson said.

"We highly value this relationship and we thank the United States for what it presents to Egypt in terms of support, which benefits both countries," Shoukry said, adding that Cairo hoped to further boost cooperation.

The visit comes as Egypt is undertaking a major military operation in volatile Sinai, where Islamic extremists have been leading an insurgency for years, and in remote areas of the mainland where militants have attacked security forces and civilians.

Attacks picked up after President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi overthrew his elected but divisive Islamist predecessor, Mohammed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood, in 2013. And militants have become more brazen of late. In November they massacred 311 people at a north Sinai mosque, and in December they tried to kill the defense and interior ministers with a missile attack during an unannounced visit to the area.

North Sinai has long been under emergency law, with a nighttime curfew in place in some hot spots, but alert levels have been heightened in recent days due to the new offensive, called Sinai 2018. Hospitals in North Sinai and in other neighboring provinces have cancelled leave for doctors in anticipation of casualties, while many local gas stations and shops were ordered shut.

The operation, announced in a televised statement by army spokesman Col. Tamer el-Rifai, began early Friday and covers north and central Sinai as well as the Nile Delta and Western Desert and targets "terrorist and criminal elements and organizations." It is unclear how long it will last.

In its latest update, Egypt's military said Monday it had killed a dozen militants in firefights and arrested 92 people, bringing the total militant body count to 28, based on earlier statements. It says it has destroyed dozens of targets, including vehicles, weapons caches, hideouts, communications centers and illegal opium fields in the sweep.

North Sinai is closed off for non-residents and journalists, and the army's casualty figures could not be independently confirmed. Telephone connections to the area, both mobile and landlines, are often shut down as well. The army has not mentioned any killed or wounded on its own side.

The campaign also comes ahead of March elections in which el-Sissi faces no serious competitors, after authorities sidelined his opponents using a variety of charges and disqualifications, leaving only a little-known supporter to run against him. El-Sissi, who held talks with Tillerson later in the day, says he is the only one who can bring stability to the country. Militant attacks, however, have surged under his leadership.

A video purportedly by Egypt's IS branch has called on fighters to stage attacks during the presidential election, defiantly mentioning the offensive and warning Egyptians to stay away from polling centers. Voting will take place over three days - March 26, 27 and 28 - in what critics say is an attempt to increase participation by a disinterested public.

Washington, which gives Egypt some $1.3 billion in annual military assistance and hundreds of millions more in civilian aid, withheld some $100 million of the funding last summer, ostensibly over new Egyptian legislation that blocks much foreign funding of non-governmental organizations, especially those involved in human rights research.

Asked about his country's view of the upcoming vote, Tillerson said the U.S. always advocates for free and fair elections and would continue to do so. He did not specifically mention el-Sissi's virtually uncontested election, or the aid being withheld. El-Sissi also faces criticism for quashing all dissent in the country, in what is the harshest crackdown in Egypt's modern history.

"We have always advocated for free and fair elections, transparent elections, not just for Egypt but any country," Tillerson said.

In the evening, el-Sissi's office said he "underscored the robust strategic relations between Egypt and the U.S." when he met with Tillerson, urging further American engagement in the country.

"The President noted that Egypt looks forward to forging closer economic cooperation with the U.S. and to increasing American investments in Egypt," it said in a statement.

Tillerson then left Cairo, travelling on to Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey, where he will meet local officials as well as Saudi, Emirati, Iraqi and Syrian delegations.

___

Follow Brian Rohan on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Brian_Rohan

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, laughs as he meets with Egyptian Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry, at Tahrir Palace, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Khaled Elfiqi, Pool photo via AP)

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, speaks during a press conference with Egyptian Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry after their meeting, at Tahrir Palace, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Khaled Elfiqi/Pool photo via AP)

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, meets with Egyptian Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry, at Tahrir Palace, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Khaled Elfiqi/Pool photo via AP)

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, left, meets Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, right, and their delegations, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. The meeting with Shoukry comes as Egypt conducts another major military operation in the Sinai Peninsula, where Islamic State militants have been leading an insurgency for years, and remote areas of the mainland where extremist fighters have attacked security forces and civilians. (Khaled Elfiqi, Pool via AP)

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, left, meets Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. The meeting with Sameh Shoukry comes as Egypt conducts another major military operation in the Sinai Peninsula, where Islamic State militants have been leading an insurgency for years, and remote areas of the mainland where extremist fighters have attacked security forces and civilians. (Khaled ElFiqi, Pool via AP)

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, left, speaks during a press conference with Egyptian Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry after their meeting, at Tahrir Palace, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Khaled Elfiqi/Pool photo via AP)

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, listens during a press conference with Egyptian Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry after their meeting, at Tahrir Palace, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Khaled Elfiqi/Pool photo via AP)THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) - In a potentially damaging admission on the eve of his first visit to Russia as a member of the Dutch government, Foreign Minister Halbe Zijlstra has acknowledged lying about attending a meeting with President Vladimir Putin in 2006.

Zijlstra issued a statement Monday confirming the admission he made to respected Dutch daily De Volkskrant.

Zijlstra has in the past said he was present as an employee of energy giant Shell at Putin's country retreat when the Russian president said he considered Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic states as part of a "Greater Russia."

Zijlstra says in his statement that he was not present at the meeting in 2006 but heard the story from somebody who was there. He says he took credit for the comments as a way of protecting his source.BANGKOK (AP) - British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson met Monday with Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and other Thai officials and discussed neighboring Myanmar's persecution of ethnic Rohingya Muslims and plans for elections in Thailand to end military rule.

A statement from Britain's Foreign & Commonwealth Office said their discussions also covered "cooperation on education, the digital economy, science and innovation, financial technology, and trade and investment, as well as further co-operation to tackle the Illegal Wildlife Trade."

"Our relationship with Thailand spans a broad range of issues from bilateral trade and investment to regional security and the Illegal Wildlife Trade," the statement quoted Johnson saying. "I look forward to further strengthening the UK's relationship with Thailand in the future."

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, left, shakes hands with Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha during their meeting at the Government House, in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Narong Sangnak/Pool Photo via AP)

Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai, one of the officials who met with Johnson, told reporters that the British government is especially concerned about the plight of the Rohingya. About 700,000 members of the Muslim minority have fled to Bangladesh to escape violence by Myanmar security forces that has been characterized by some human rights experts as ethnic cleansing.

Johnson is in Thailand after visiting Bangladesh, where he met Rohingya refugees, and Myanmar, where he held talks on the Rohingya situation with the country's leader, Aung San Suu Kyi.

In Myanmar, Johnson also visited areas in the western state of Rakhine, the site of the violence that drove the Rohingya to flee.

Plans to repatriate the Rohingya have been made by Bangladesh and Myanmar, but are a major concern of the international community. Human rights advocates insist that any repatriation be carried out under verifiably safe conditions.

"Shocked at what I saw during tour of northern #Rakhine," Johnson wrote on Twitter. "The devastation of hundreds of villages torched. UK already a major donor to crisis and will continue to use our influence to provide a better future for the #Rohingya community."

"In the eyes of the British government right now, they are putting an emphasis on fixing the issue of Rohingya in Rakhine state, first and foremost," Don said, adding that Britain did not ask for the Thai government's help in the matter.

Thailand's military seized power from an elected government in 2014. Johnson's visit Monday follows a European Union decision last December to ease political sanctions on Thailand imposed after the coup.

Don said Johnson was not concerned by the ruling junta's most recent election date postponement, after several earlier promised deadlines for a return to an elected government passed.

"They are not pressuring Thailand to hold elections because they do not see it as having any impact on England," Don said.

Johnson's visit to Thailand came after an official visit last Friday by Italy's foreign minister, and will be followed by the French deputy foreign minister on Tuesday. Thai Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Busadee Santipitak said last Friday that the trips are a sign of improved relations between Thailand and European nations following the EU's easing of sanctions.

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, center left, talks with Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha during their meeting at the Government House, in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. The portrait of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun is seen at center top. (Narong Sangnak/Pool Photo via AP)

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, left, talks with Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha during their meeting at the Government House, in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (Narong Sangnak/Pool Photo via AP)ZAGREB, Croatia (AP) - Serbia's president visited Croatia on Monday amid protests from war veterans and festering tensions between the two Balkan rivals stemming from their 1990s war.

President Aleksandar Vucic arrived for a two-day visit seen as an attempt to solve some of the festering issues and boost economic ties despite deep mistrust between the two neighbors.

More than 1,000 war veterans and nationalists protested against Vucic, a former fervent nationalist from the war era who now says he is a pro-EU reformer. The protesters carried Croatian flags and banners denouncing Vucic's ultra-nationalist stance during the 1991-1995 fighting that erupted when Croatia declared independence from the former Yugoslavia, triggering a rebellion by its minority Serbs.

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic, left and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic walk next to each other during an arrival ceremony in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

The Croatian protesters were demanding an apology and war reparations from Serbia, which backed the minority Serb rebellion in Croatia during a conflict that killed 10,000 people.

One group of war veterans spread a huge banner reading: "Vucic, we want an apology!"

Strong security measures are in place throughout the Croatian capital for the visit, including snipers on the roofs of the houses where Vucic's motorcade was passing by.

Vucic is meeting top Croatian officials, minority Serb representatives and religious leaders.

The visit was planned for last year, but canceled amid clashes between politicians over several issues.

Croatia earlier this year protested a Serbian exhibition about a World War II concentration camp in Croatia where tens of thousands Serbs, Jews and Gypsies were killed by Croatia' wartime pro-Nazi puppet regime.

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic, center and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic review honor guards during an arrival ceremony in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia.(AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic, front, listen to the national anthems during the arrival ceremony in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic, left, and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic shake hands in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia.(AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic, center and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic review honor guards during the arrival ceremony in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia.(AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic, left and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic review honor guards during the arrival ceremony in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic, left, and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic look at each other after shaking hands in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia.(AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic stand in front of insignia in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia.(AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Serbia's president Aleksandar Vucic, left and his Croatian counterpart Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic sit at a table in Zagreb, Croatia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vucic is on a two day state visit to Croatia.(AP Photo/Darko Bandic)COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) - Maldives officials are accusing two arrested Supreme Court justices and a former president of plotting to overthrow the government.

They say police have found more than $200,000 in suspicious money in searches since a state of emergency was declared last week in the tourist haven.

A presidential statement Sunday said ex-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom had bribed officials and judges and encouraged riots. It said he and the justices were "attempting to overthrow the government."

Opposition leaders rejected the accusations, saying President Yameen Abdul Gayoom is trying to weaken his political opponents.

Political chaos has shaken the government since the Supreme Court ordered that a group of imprisoned opposition leaders be freed. The government pushed back, eventually declaring a state of emergency and arresting the two justices, Gayoom and other politicians.CAIRO (AP) - An Egyptian court has convicted a suspect for killing a Coptic priest in a poor Cairo district last year and sentenced him to death.

The Cairo Criminal Court said the defendant, Ahmed Saeed, attacked the 40-year-old cleric, Samaan Shehata, with a knife in the city of al-Salam, northeast of Cairo in October. Another priest was wounded in the attack.

Monday's verdict can be appealed.

Attacks on Egypt's Christians, who account for about 10 percent of the country's predominantly Muslim population of nearly 95 million, have surged recently with a series of suicide bombings claimed by the Islamic State group.

In April, twin suicide bombings, also claimed by IS, struck two Coptic churches, killing at least 47 people. The Palm Sunday bombings prompted Egypt to declare a nationwide state of emergency.FALLS CHURCH, Va. (AP) - The defense contractor General Dynamics will spend almost $7 billion to acquire CSRA with the Trump administration pushing defense spending aggressively higher.

Shares of CSRA Inc., an internet technology company, soared 31 percent in midday trading.

As part of a $4.4 trillion budget for next year unveiled Monday, President Donald Trump requested a record $686 billion for the Pentagon, a 13 percent increase from the 2017 budget enacted last May.

FILE - In this Feb. 23, 2017, file photo, General Dynamics CEO Phebe Novakovic listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with manufacturing executives at the White House in Washington. General Dynamics is buying CSRA for almost $7 billion. Novakovic said in a printed statement that the deal will help it provide cost-effective IT solutions and services to the Department of Defense, intelligence community and federal civilian agencies. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)

"We're going to have the strongest military we've ever had, by far," Trump said. "In this budget we took care of the military like it's never been taken care of before."

Next year, the figure is expected to jump to $716 billion.

Shares of defense contractors all moved higher.

General Dynamics will pay $40.75 per CSRA share, a 32 percent premium to its closing price Friday. The deal includes an additional $2.8 billion in debt, putting its entire value closer to $9.6 billion.

Chairman and CEO Phebe Novakovic said in a printed statement that the acquisition will help General Dynamics provide cost-effective internet technology solutions to the Department of Defense, intelligence community and federal civilian agencies.

The defense sector has made huge gains over the past year under the new administration with the number of geopolitical friction points rising globally.

The Standard & Poors 500's index that traces aerospace and defense stocks has risen almost four times as fast as the S&P 500 over the past 12 months.

CSRA and General Dynamics Corp. are based in Falls Church, Virginia.

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of the year.BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) - Australian Open finalist Simona Halep has signed a deal with Nike after playing without a sponsor in Melbourne.

The second-ranked Romanian made the announcement Monday on her Facebook account. She posted a photo with the caption, "Just Do It. I just did it."

Halep wore a red unbranded dress in last month's final, leading to some jokes on social media. She said she bought the dress online.

Halep was also without a clothing sponsor when she won the Shenzhen Open earlier in January.

Romanian media said Halep's deal with Nike is worth $2 million a year.

Halep previously had a contract with Adidas.

She lost the Australian Open final to Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki.

Both Halep and Wozniacki will play in the Doha Open this week.ATHENS, Greece (AP) - Greece's prime minister says he wants Parliament to investigate the alleged involvement of past administration officials - including two former prime ministers - in a major pharmaceutical bribery scandal.

Alexis Tsipras said Monday the allegations are indicative of the "moral decadence" that helped stoke Greece's debt crisis.

The claims follow an investigation into bribes Swiss drug-maker Novartis allegedly paid to boost sales and prices of Novartis products at state hospitals.

Under Greek law, allegations concerning politicians must be reviewed by Parliament before lawmakers can authorize prosecutions.

The officials allegedly involved include Bank of Greece governor Yannis Stournaras, EU Home Affairs Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos, former conservative prime minister Antonis Samaras, and Panagiotos Pikramenos, a former caretaker prime minister. They have denied the allegations.

Novartis has said it's cooperating with Greek authorities.ATLANTA (AP) - Atlanta police say an unidentified gunman fatally shot the son of a prominent activist with 11 bullets. His father believes it was a targeted killing.

Police Officer Lisa Bender tells The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that 34-year-old Justin Edwards of Decatur was driving home with his girlfriend Saturday night when two tires went flat and he pulled into a parking lot to check them out. Witnesses told police that an unidentified suspect approached, fired shots and then ran away. His girlfriend wasn't hurt.

Police say the motive remains unclear, but the victim's father, Joel Edwards, says he believes someone slashed his tires intending to kill him. The DeKalb County activist tells WSB-TV that "this was a hit, for what reason I don't know."

Justin Edwards was a logistics manager at Lockheed Martin.CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (AP) - A former aide to President Donald Trump is headed to Harvard University to teach diplomacy and foreign affairs.

The Ivy League school said Monday that Dina Powell, the former deputy national security adviser, will teach seminars and study groups over the next year as a non-resident senior fellow.

She will join Harvard's Kennedy School to share her experience in American foreign policy, the Middle East and international politics.

Nicholas Burns, faculty director of the Future of Diplomacy Project at Harvard, says Powell is "one of our country's finest public servants" and "will be a source of ideas and inspiration" for students.

Powell is among several Trump aides who left after his first year in office. She previously worked for Goldman Sachs and the administration of former President George W. Bush.ZAATARI REFUGEE CAMP, Jordan (AP) - The head of the U.N. refugee agency on Monday appealed to the United States and other nations to take in more displaced people, speaking from a camp for Syrian refugees in Jordan, one of the main host countries.

Filippo Grandi also said that the number of Syrians being deported from Jordan to their war-ravaged homeland "decreased dramatically" in recent months, in part because of his agency's appeal for more careful reviews of cases.

Jordan is believed to have deported several thousand refugees since last year, mostly on security grounds. Rights groups have said deportations often take place quickly, without a thorough investigation.

U.N. refugee chief Filippo Grandi visits with Syrian refugees during a visit to the Zaatari Syrian Refugee Camp, in Mafraq, Jordan, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Grandi said the number of Syrian refugees deported from Jordan to their war-ravaged homeland has "decreased dramatically" in recent months, in part because of appeals for more careful reviews of cases. (AP Photo/Raad Adayleh)

Only about 15,000 Syrian refugees, out of close to 660,000 registered in Jordan, have opted to leave the kingdom for Syria since 2016, Grandi said during a tour of the Zaatari refugee camp.

"So it's a very small number. Why? Because people don't feel secure," he said. "And when you see the war becoming more and more complicated, with more and more actors involved, then you get more worried."

Millions of Syrians have been uprooted since conflict erupted in the country in 2011. Some 5.5 million Syrians have fled their homeland, most finding refuge in nearby host countries. Several hundreds of thousands moved on to Europe, with the help of smugglers taking them across perilous sea routes, while only a small portion have been able to move to the West through resettlement programs.

The United States, which traditionally took in the largest number of refugees, has scaled back its resettlement program under the Trump administration.

Grandi said the United Nations will likely be able to resettle only about 10,000 refugees from Jordan to third countries this year, compared to 25,000 to 30,000 per year in the past.

"Now my appeal to the U.S., to Denmark, to the countries that have reduced, is (to) continue to raise again your quotas," Grandi said.

In Zaatari, which has about 80,000 residents, Grandi visited a new solar power plant that provides electricity to the camp for 14 hours a day.

He also stopped by an employment center where 8,000 Syrians obtained work permits last year for jobs outside the camp.

Meryem Mohammed Shaabi, 47, a mother of four, was at the center Monday to seek a permit to work in a clothing factory in northern Jordan where 50 Syrian women from Zaatari are to be employed by March.

Violence, displacement and closed borders have separated the Shaabi family.

Shaabi's oldest daughter and son-in-law remained in Syria when the rest of the family fled to Jordan in 2013. Shaabi said she would like to see her daughter again, but that it's still too dangerous to go home. "There is no safety there," she said.

Jordan sealed its border with Syria in 2016, after a cross-border car bomb attack killed seven Jordanian border guards.

Some 50,000 displaced Syrians have been left stranded in a makeshift camp on the border known as Rukban.

The border closure severely disrupted what had already been intermittent aid deliveries from Jordanian territory to Rukban. Camp residents live in tents or mud brick shelters in harsh conditions, with insufficient food and water, and lacking basic medical supplies.

Grandi said that the Rukban crisis should be solved "in Syria," echoing Jordan's position that it has no obligation to take in those stranded at the berm or allow regular aid deliveries from its territory.

Grandi also said his agency would keep pressing the Syrian government and opposition forces to allow humanitarian access to besieged areas, such as Eastern Ghouta and Idlib.

"The borders of Syria are closed. People cannot go out. So they will have to escape desperately, within Syria," Grandi said, "Civilians must be accessed by humanitarian organizations wherever they are, because it's their suffering that keeps us awake at night."

U.N. refugee chief Filippo Grandi visits with Syrian refugees during a visit to the Zaatari Syrian Refugee Camp, in Mafraq, Jordan, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Grandi said the number of Syrian refugees deported from Jordan to their war-ravaged homeland has "decreased dramatically" in recent months, in part because of appeals for more careful reviews of cases. (AP Photo/Raad Adayleh)

U.N. refugee chief Filippo Grandi visits with Syrian refugees during a visit to the Zaatari Syrian Refugee Camp, in Mafraq, Jordan, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Raad Adayleh)

U.N. refugee chief Filippo Grandi speaks to the press during a visit to the Zaatari Syrian Refugee Camp, in Mafraq, Jordan, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Raad Adayleh)CAIRO (AP) - An Egyptian rights lawyer says the country's prosecutors have ordered the detention for 15 days of a prominent activist pending investigations into charges that include joining a terrorist group and disseminating fake news.

Mokhtar Mounir told The Associated Press on Monday that police forces have arrested Mohamed el-Kassas, the deputy head of the Egyptian opposition party Misr al-Qawia, four days ago and raided his home in Cairo.

He said el-Kassas is held in solitary confinement in Cairo's sprawling Tora Prison complex. No trial date has been set.

It is the latest in a crackdown on opposition overseen by President Abdel-Fatah el-Sissi who led the military's 2013 ouster of Egypt's first freely elected leader, the Islamist Mohammed Morsi. The crackdown has led to the imprisonment of tens of thousands of dissidents.CHICAGO (AP) - Marijuana users' self-proclaimed holiday is linked with a slight increase in fatal U.S. car crashes, an analysis of 25 years of data found.

The study lacks evidence on whether pot was involved in any of the April 20 crashes, but marijuana can impair driving ability. Previous studies have shown that many pot-using motorists drive after partaking and think it's safe to do so.

The researchers analyzed U.S. government data on fatal traffic accidents from 1992 - shortly after 4/20 was popularized as a pot holiday in High Times magazine - through 2016. They compared driver deaths on that date with deaths on a day the week before and the week after during the study period.

FILE - In this April 20, 2013 file photo, members of a crowd numbering tens of thousands smoke marijuana at the Denver 4/20 pro-marijuana rally at Civic Center Park in Denver. According to a report released on Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, the day marijuana users celebrate as their own holiday is linked with a slight increase in fatal U.S. car crashes, in an analysis of 25 years of data. Whether pot was involved in any April 20 crashes is not known, but the increased risk was similar in magnitude as found in previous research linking traffic accidents with Super Bowl Sunday. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley, File)

Deaths increased slightly in most but not all states, amounting to an overall increased risk of 12 percent - or an extra 142 driver deaths linked with the holiday, said lead author Dr. John Staples at the University of British Columbia.

Other studies have found a similarly elevated risk linked with alcohol and driving on Super Bowl Sunday and New Year's Eve.

Most accidents had no police data on drug testing so there's no way to confirm that marijuana was involved, but researchers think the drug was responsible for some crashes.

The study was published Monday in JAMA Internal Medicine.

"It's a really relevant question to be thinking about now since legalization seems to be progressing across the United States and in Canada," Staples said.

Marijuana is legal for medical use in most U.S. states and in Canada; recreational use has been legalized in nine states plus Washington, D.C. and is expected to become legal in Canada in July.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, marijuana can impair driving ability. However, the U.S. agency also notes that directly linking marijuana with car crashes can be difficult because it's often used while drinking alcohol.

An earlier survey of college freshmen found that driving after marijuana use and riding with someone using pot was common, especially among young men, and more common than alcohol-linked driving. And a 2014 study in six states found that marijuana was increasingly detected in drivers killed in car crashes during a 10-year period.

It's a recognized risk in Colorado, where voters approved legalizing it in 2012. Last year the state's transportation department partnered with Lyft and a pot industry group to offer discounted rides for pot users partaking in 4/20 festivities. The program runs through April this year. Data show that 15 percent of DUI arrests in Colorado last year involved marijuana, and a 2016 survey found about half of users in the state think driving under the influence of pot is safe.

Dr. Andrew Monte, an emergency medicine physician and toxicology expert at the University of Colorado, said his hospital typically sees a slight increase in marijuana-using patients on April 20, but that vomiting and intoxication are more common reasons than car crash injuries.

Still, he said the study offers an important message.

"We think about cannabis as being ubiquitous in our society," he said. "However we need to realize that people should not be using this and driving."

___

Follow AP Medical Writer Lindsey Tanner on Twitter at @LindseyTanner . Her work can be found here .FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) - In a story Feb. 6 about thefts from a police forfeiture program, The Associated Press reported erroneously that a Florida man convicted of stealing from the Fort Lauderdale Police Department was a former police officer. He was a former civilian employee.

A corrected version of the story is below:

Ex-employee stole $310K from Florida police department

A former civilian police employee who confessed to stealing $310,000 in cash from his department's forfeiture program has been sentenced to one year and four months in prison

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) - A former employee for a Florida police department who confessed to stealing more than $310,000 in cash from his department has been sentenced to one year and four months in prison.

The Sun Sentinel of South Florida reports 34-year-old Gerard Anthony Brady was sentenced last week. He has been ordered to turn himself in on March 9 to begin his sentence for the thefts from the Fort Lauderdale Police forfeiture program, which manages seized property and cash used to help area law enforcement efforts.

Brady had been hired in August 2010 as the department's forfeiture coordinator. He started skimming cash and altering documents to hide the thefts in December 2012 and was arrested late 2016.

He has also been ordered to repay more than $225,000.BEIRUT (AP) - The Syrian Kurdish militia partnering with the U.S-led coalition to fight Islamic State militants said Monday that it is holding a "huge number" of foreign fighters in Syria and none of their home countries want them back.

The head of the People's Defense Units, or the YPG, Sipan Hemo, speaking to reporters in a conference call Monday, said more than half of those detained in the battle against IS in Syria are foreign fighters from all over the world, including Russia, Europe, China, Japan and Arab countries.

The future of those militants remains unclear and the process for bringing them to justice unsettled amid a debate, mostly in Europe, about whether they should be allowed to return home.

FILE - This Oct. 19, 2017, image from drone video, shows damaged buildings in Raqqa, Syria, two days after Syrian Democratic Forces said military operations to oust the Islamic State group ended. A U.S. military official says that the American-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in January 2018 captured two notorious British members of an Islamic State insurgent cell commonly dubbed "The Beatles" and known for beheading hostages. (AP Photo/Gabriel Chaim)

Hemo provided no figure for the number of detainees captured by his forces in Syria but added it was a burden to keep them.

"We suffer from the large number of Daesh detainees that we have now," Hemo said, using the Arabic acronym for IS.

Hemo said there is a "huge" number of IS foreign fighters and administrators from all over the world. Most of them are from Russia, Europe and Arab countries, he said.

Hemo said his forces have formally asked foreign governments to take their nationals to be tried at home. "Up until now, no one wants to take them back or to try them. We still have them in (local) prisons," he said. "Honestly, we also don't know what their future will be."

Hemo said many of the local fighters were forced to work or cooperate with IS because they controlled their areas. He said those local detainees will likely face regular courts and will be tried or released. "They are regular people who had to live with Daesh."

Even that is not exactly straightforward. The U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have no international recognition and the Syrian government, which runs the local courts, doesn't have a presence in the areas liberated from IS by the U.S-backed forces.

The SDF - with the YPG as its backbone - captured two British men last month, and U.S. officials interrogated them and identified them with biometric data and other tools. It was the most high profile capture publicly announced. British officials said they don't want the two men, who were part of a cell that executed foreign hostages, to return home.

U.S. officials say the two men represent just a small portion of the hundreds of foreign-born IS terrorists that were captured or killed since October 2017 by the SDF.

Two French nationals, including a woman listed as a key recruiter, appeared in videos posted online last month to speak about the conditions of their detention in Syria.JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) - A woman has pleaded guilty to kidnapping an infant from a Florida hospital nearly 20 years ago.

The plea agreement 52-year-old Gloria Williams accepted Monday in Jacksonville calls for a prison sentence of up to 22 years when she's sentenced in May.

Prosecutors said Williams kidnapped newborn Kamiyah Mobley from a Jacksonville hospital in 1998 and raised her in Walterboro, South Carolina. The victim is now 19 and named Alexis Manigo.

The Florida Times-Union reports the young woman eventually met her birth parents, but continues to support the only woman she's known as her mother.

The mystery unraveled over the last couple of years when National Center for Missing and Exploited Children tips led authorities to Williams.

Neither Manigo nor her birth parents were in court.

___

Information from: The (Jacksonville) Florida Times-Union, http://www.jacksonville.comWASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on President Donald Trump's infrastructure proposal (all times local):

2:25 p.m.

The Trump administration's infrastructure plan includes $18 billion to create a public lands infrastructure fund for the Interior Department. Most of the money would come from revenue generated by energy development on federal lands.

File- In this May 19, 2017, file photo, a man works on the Southern Nevada portion of U.S. Interstate 11 near Boulder City, Nev. President Donald Trump on Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, will unveil his long-awaited infrastructure plan, a $1.5 billion proposal that fulfills a number of campaign goals, but relies heavily on state and local governments to produce much of the funding. The administration's plan is centered on using $200 billion in federal money to leverage local and state tax dollars to fix America's infrastructure, such as roads, highways, ports and airports.(AP Photo/John Locher, File)

The money would be used to whittle down an estimated $16 billion backlog in maintenance for national parks, wildlife refuges and other public lands.

The Interior Department has separately proposed $1.3 billion in the next budget year to address the maintenance backlog, which includes more than $11 billion for the National Park Service alone.

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said the nation's parks and wildlife refuges "are being loved to death" and need significant work to keep pace with increased number of visitors.

__

1:30 p.m.

President Donald Trump's infrastructure plan is receiving a frosty response from Democratic members of Congress.

The president's plan would use $200 billion in federal money to leverage local and state investments. It also would change the permitting process to get projects underway more quickly.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., says the president's plan would raise tolls on commuters, increase the burden on cities and states, and sell essential infrastructure to the whims of Wall Street.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., says Trump's plan would put unsustainable burdens on local government and calls it a "plan to appease his political allies, not to rebuild the country."

Democrats have proposed an infrastructure plan that would entail $1 trillion in additional federal spending to jumpstart new projects around the country.

__

12:01 p.m.

President Donald Trump's infrastructure plan calls for possibly selling two of the three major airports serving the nation's capital.

The president is calling for divesting federal assets when agencies can show the sale would "optimize taxpayer value."

The proposal lists Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Dulles International Airport as examples of assets that could be sold.

Other such examples of federal assets to be divested include transmission lines operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Bonneville Power Administration. Similar plans in the past have been met with stiff, bipartisan opposition.

Trump is also citing two major roadways in the Washington D.C. region that could be sold: the George Washington Memorial and Baltimore-Washington parkways.

__

11:30 a.m.

President Donald Trump is urging Congress to pass what he's calling the "biggest and boldest" infrastructure plan.

Trump is making his case as he meets with a group of local and state officials, including governors, state legislators, mayors and country commissioners.

Trump says local leaders understand the challenges of funding infrastructure and says his is a "common sense and bipartisan plan" that Congress should support.

He also says Washington should be a partner to local governments and no longer "a roadblock to progress."

Trump's plan envisions using $200 billion in federal money to leverage local and state tax dollars to fix roads, highways, ports and airports.

The plan would fulfill a key campaign goal but rely heavily on state and local government budgets.

__

10:10 a.m.

President Donald Trump is meeting with a group of governors, mayors and local leaders at the White House to build support for his infrastructure proposal.

The White House says the meeting will include governors from eight states: Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Maine, New Mexico, Virginia, Nebraska and Wisconsin.

A number of mayors will be attending from cities like Las Vegas, Fort Worth, Texas, Charlotte, North Carolina and Wichita, Kansas. The gathering will also include state legislators and county commissioners.

The White House is releasing a 55-page "legislative outline" on the proposal, which envisions spurring $1.5 trillion in spending over a decade to rebuild roads, highways and airports.

The proposal would rely heavily on state and local government for much of the funding.

__

8:05 a.m.

President Donald Trump is predicting a "big week" for the roll out of his administration's infrastructure plan.

The president tweeted Monday that after "so stupidly spending $7 trillion in the Middle East, it is now time to start investing in OUR Country!"

The White House is unveiling its goal of spurring $1.5 trillion in funding over 10 years to rebuild roads, highways, ports and airports. The plan centers on using $200 billion in federal money to leverage local and state dollars for the projects.

Trump is meeting with state and local leaders at the White House on Monday to discuss the plan.

__

1 a.m.

President Donald Trump is unveiling his long-awaited infrastructure plan, a $1.5 trillion proposal that fulfills a number of his campaign goals. But it relies heavily on state and local governments to produce much of the funding.

The administration's plan is centered on using $200 billion in federal money to leverage local and state tax dollars to fix America's infrastructure, such as roads, highways, ports and airports.

Trump has repeatedly blamed the "crumbling" state of the nation's roads and highways for preventing the American economy from reaching its full potential. Many in Washington believe that Trump should have begun his term a year ago with an infrastructure push, one that could have garnered bipartisan support or, at minimum, placed Democrats in a bind for opposing a popular political measure.SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) - Puerto Rico needs urgent structural reforms and to pay back part of its debt even after Congress' recent approval of nearly $17 billion in additional disaster funds, the president of a federal control board overseeing Puerto Rico's finances said Monday.

Jose Carrion said the U.S. territory needs to reform its labor, corporate tax and welfare systems to reboot its economy.

"We are aware that some reforms are not political palatable," said Carrion, who spoke at a Puerto Rico investment summit and warned that the additional federal funds would not solve Puerto Rico's "significant" problems given its 11-year economic crisis and struggle to recover from Hurricane Maria. "The cost of the recovery will be substantial. Not all will be reimbursed by the federal government."

He also said the island has to pay back a "reasonable and substantial" portion of its $73 billion public debt load. His comments conflict with a fiscal plan Puerto Rico's government recently submitted that does not set aside any money for debt service in the next five years. A revised version of the plan is due before Tuesday, and the board and government officials are expected to clash over some items.

Secretary of Public Affairs Ramon Rosario recently said the government would not cut any benefits for the U.S. territory's employees as suggested by the board, which is expected to approve a final fiscal plan by Feb. 23. Many Puerto Ricans fear additional austerity measures will be implemented even as they struggle five months after the Category 4 storm hit.

"The process will not be free of obstacles and challenges," Carrion warned.

Some experts clashed during the investment summit over whether Puerto Rico should pay a portion of its debt in upcoming years.

Matt Rodrigue, who represents a group that holds more than $3 billion in Puerto Rico government bonds backed by a sales-and-use tax, said the island has not been able to access capital markets since 2014. He said paying off some of the debt would help it return to the markets. But attorney Richard Cooper, whose firm previously advised Puerto Rico's government, said the focus has to be on growth for the next several years.

"That's the only way they're going to get paid," he said of creditors.

Noel Zamot, the board's revitalization coordinator, said during the investment summit that 40 development projects have been submitted so far to help Puerto Rico emerge from its crisis, including $4.8 billion in energy projects alone. He said the U.S. territory is currently looking for projects related to power, housing, waste management and transportation.

"Housing has become a critical issue for Puerto Rico right now," he said.

Puerto Rico officials have said Maria destroyed between 70,000 to 75,000 homes and damaged another 300,000 homes. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has installed 50,000 blue roofs across the island, with another nearly 20,000 more roofs still needed.

The island also is struggling with ongoing blackouts as more than 400,000 power customers remain in the dark more than five months after Maria. Last month, Puerto Rico's governor announced his administration would privatize the state-owned power company in the next 18 months. Carrion said the two main goals is to reduce the cost of electricity and improve the reliability of the system to help boost economic development on the island. He also stressed the need for an independent regulator.

The hurricane hit on Sept. 20, killings dozens of people and causing up to an estimated $94 billion in damage.WARREN, Mich. (AP) - Archie "Art" Van Elslander, the founder of Art Van Furniture and a major Detroit-area philanthropist who is credited with saving the city's annual Thanksgiving parade, died Monday, his family said. He was 87.

Van Elslander, who was known as Art Van, opened his first store in 1959 in East Detroit, now called Eastpointe. There are more than 100 stores in the Midwest, with more than half of them in Michigan. The business was sold last year to Thomas H. Lee Partners, a Boston private equity firm.

Company spokeswoman Diane Charles said Van Elslander had cancer.

In this March 2, 2009 photo, Art Van Elslander talks to the Free Press in his office in Warren, Mich. Archie "Art" Van Elslander, the founder of Art Van Furniture and a major Detroit-area philanthropist who is credited with saving the city's annual Thanksgiving parade, died Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, his family said. He was 87. (Susan Tusa/Detroit Free Press via AP)

"Boy, this is such a tough loss. We were so lucky to have Art in our lives," said Tony Michaels, president of The Parade Company, which produces the Thanksgiving parade.

After more than 60 years, the parade's finances were failing in 1990 when Van Elslander stepped forward with a $200,000 check. He would ride down Woodward Avenue and wave to crowds from a car. The company became a regular sponsor of the parade, which draws tens of thousands of people to downtown Detroit.

"It's probably one of the most gratifying things I've ever done," Van Elslander, the son of a Belgian tavern owner, said in 2015. "Because when you see the lives that you've been able to affect, it's pretty cool."

In December, he said he was donating $20 million to expand the Solanus Casey Center in Detroit, named for a Roman Catholic priest who is on a path to sainthood. A cancer center at St. John Hospital is named for Van Elslander. He also supported many other charities.BENI, Congo (AP) - Congo's army says it has captured the largest stronghold for the Uganda-born Allied Democratic Forces rebels in Congo's northeast.

Capt. Mak Hazukay Mongba, spokesman for Operation Sukola, said Monday the army released hostages and took control of the "grand bastion" of ADF rebels in Mwalika, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Beni.

According to Human Rights Watch, ADF rebels have killed about 1,000 people in the Beni region over the last three years. The Congolese army has captured dozens of rebels including a dozen who were sentenced to death.

A Dec. 7 attack on a U.N. base outside Beni killed 14 Tanzanian peacekeepers in the deadliest single assault on a peacekeeping mission in almost 25 years.

The ADF, which formed in the 1990s, eventually relocated from Uganda to eastern Congo.ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - Ankara's mayor has announced plans to rename a street where the U.S. Embassy is located after the Turkish military offensive in Syria that is deepening tensions between the United States and Turkey.

Mayor Mustafa Tuna said in a tweet on Monday that Nevzat Tandogan Street (nev-ZOT tan-doh-AHN) will be called Olive Branch Street.

Turkey launched Operation Olive Branch last month to drive a Syrian Kurdish militia out of northwest Syria. The militia is a major U.S. ally in fighting the Islamic State group; Turkey has labeled the Syrian Kurds as "terrorists."

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu walks to address a Turkey-Africa Conference in Istanbul, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Cavusoglu assailed the United States on Monday, claiming American forces in Syria are intentionally stalling the fight against Islamic State militants as an excuse not to cut ties with Syrian Kurdish fighters as Ankara has demanded.(Pool Photo via AP)

In November, Turkey renamed the street where the United Arab Emirates has its embassy after a long-dead Ottoman military commander. It was a reaction to an Emirati minister's retweet of a claim that the Turkish president's "forefathers" pillaged the holy city of Medina.

People shout slogans in support of Turkish soldiers during the funeral of Ali Akdogan in Izmir, Turkey, Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018. Akdogan was one of 12 Turkish soldiers killed Saturday during Turkey's Operation Olive Branch against the Syrian Kurdish militia that started on Jan. 20 with Ankara's cross-border incursion into the enclave of Afrin, Syria.(AP Photo/Emre Tazegul)

In this Feb. 7, 2018, photo, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis speaks during the daily news briefing at the White House in Washington. The U.S. wants to see foreign fighters being held by Syrian Democratic Forces turned over to their home countries. The United States is urging allied nations to help deal with the growing number of foreign fighters that are being held by the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, saying the militants should be turned over to face justice in their home countries. Mattis is expected to raise the issue during a meeting in Rome this week with other members of the coalition that is fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)Terrill Thomas, left, and his son Terrill Barnes

Three Milwaukee County jail staffers are facing criminal charges for their role in the dehydration death of a mentally ill inmate who spent a week without water, prosecutors said Monday.

An investigation revealed 38-year-old Terrill Thomas had water to his cell shut off as punishment for flooding it by using a mattress in April 2016.

Supervisor Kashka Meadors and jail deputy James Lee Ramsey-Guy are both charged with neglect of a resident of a penal facility, a felony punishable by up to three and a half years in prison.

Prosecutors say Meadors ordered Ramsey-Guy to shut off the water.

Jail Commander Nancy Lee Evans is charged with felony misconduct and misdemeanor obstructing an office.

Prosecutors say she failed to preserve surveillance video showing the water turned off and lied to police about what the footage showed.

If convicted of both charges, Evans could face more than four years in prison.

Meadors, Ramsey-Guy, and Evans had their initial court appearances Monday, but they don't have attorneys listed.

The charges announced by the Milwaukee District Attorney's Office come almost a year after jurors recommended jail staff should be liable after prosecutors presented them with evidence.

Jail Commander Nancy Lee Evans (left) is charged with felony misconduct and misdemeanor obstructing an office. Supervisor Kashka Meadors and jail deputy James Lee Ramsey-Guy (right) are both charged with neglect of a resident of a penal facility, a felony punishable by up to three-and-a-half years in prison

Thomas' family has said he was having a mental breakdown when police arrested him April 14, 2016, for shooting a man in front of his parents' house and later firing a gun inside a casino.

Supervisor Kashka Meadors (pictured) is and jail deputy James Lee Ramsey-Guy are both charged with neglect of a resident of a penal facility. Prosecutors say Meadors ordered Ramsey-Guy to shut off the water

'Our expectation when Mr Thomas was brought into custody was that he would be kept safe.

'The allegations set forth in the criminal complaint document that that did not happen,' District Attorney John Chisholm said.

At the time of Thomas' death, the jail was overseen by conservative firebrand Sheriff David Clarke, who resigned in August to join a political action committee in support of President Donald Trump.

Clarke was not the target of the inquest because he wasn't directly involved in Thomas' death.

Police detectives asked Evans in a questionnaire during their investigation whether there was any documentation showing whether the water was turned off the whole time or intermittently.

The document Evans signed off on answered that 'there is no documentation indicating this'.

However, prosecutors say Evans was aware of the tape and that it showed the water to Thomas' cell being turned off and never turned back on again.

'My heart bleeds for these people,' said interim Sheriff Richard Schmidt, who was not in charge when Thomas died.

'I'm a human being, I have family members. If this turns out to be exactly the way they've been written, it's horrific.'

Thomas' case wasn't the only time an inmate was punished by being deprived of water.

District Attorney John Chisholm discusses criminal charges he filed against three county jail staffers

Prosecutors presented jurors with jail logs documenting two cases in which disobeying inmates had water to their cells turned off - both within a month of Thomas dying.

One of the cases happened a week after Thomas' death.

Schmidt said the three staffers charged were suspended Monday and that he will determine by Friday if further discipline is warranted after his office conducts an investigation separately from Chisholm's.

Jurors had also recommended charges against four other staffers - JorDon Johnson, Thomas Laine, Dominique Smith and John Weber - but Chisholm concluded they shouldn't be prosecuted.

He said, however, that charges are possible later against the company the jail contracts with to provide health care to inmates.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The University of Minnesota has removed a plaque honoring humorist Garrison Keillor after he faced allegations of sexual misconduct.

Keillor's plaque is no longer displayed on the school's Scholars Walk, which honors outstanding university faculty and alumni, Minnesota Daily reported . But some of Keillor's song lyrics from an early radio show are still featured on campus.

Keillor graduated from the university in 1966 with a bachelor's degree in English.

FILE - In this July 26, 2017 file photo, Garrison Keillor, creator and former host of, "A Prairie Home Companion," talks at his St. Paul, Minn., office. The University of Minnesota has removed a plaque honoring humorist Garrison Keillor after he faced allegations of sexual misconduct. Keillor's plaque is no longer displayed on the school's Scholars Walk, which honors outstanding university faculty and alumni. On his Facebook page, Keillor said Monday, Feb.. 12, 2018, the removal of his plaque was "a relief." (AP Photo/Jeff Baenen, File)

The longtime Minnesota Public Radio personality is known for telling folksy stories about his fictional Minnesota hometown of Lake Wobegon on "A Prairie Home Companion." He was fired last year after facing allegations of workplace sexual harassment.

In a statement Monday, the university said Keillor's plaque was removed along with others last month as part of a regular rotation. Thirteen new names were added, including former Vice President Hubert Humphrey and Minnesota Lynx player Lindsay Whalen.

"The panels were designed to be rotated on a regular basis in order to keep the gallery dynamic and highlight a larger group of individuals over time," the university said.

On his Facebook page, Keillor said Monday the removal of his plaque was "a relief."

"The idea of the Walk was some nameless bureaucrat's and was an embarrassment anyway: a great public university is about equality and anonymity and I'm proud to be a U of M grad, no need for a plaque," Keillor wrote.

Keillor was accused by a woman who worked on his radio show of dozens of sexually inappropriate incidents over several years, including requests for sexual contact and explicit sexual communications and touching.

Keillor has denied the allegations and says that the radio station fired him without a proper investigation.

An outside investigation looked into dozens of allegations regarding Keillor's sexually inappropriate conduct, MPR President Jon McTaggart wrote in a letter to members published last month.

MPR has removed from its website archived "A Prairie Home Companion" shows featuring Keillor. The network also ended broadcasts of "The Writer's Almanac," Keillor's daily reading of literary events and a poem, and ended rebroadcasts of Keillor-hosted "Prairie Home" shows.

Keillor, 75, retired in 2016 as host of "Prairie Home," a Saturday evening radio variety show he created in 1974. The show, now titled "Live from Here," continues with Keillor's hand-picked successor, mandolinist Chris Thile.

___

Information from: The Minnesota Daily, http://www.mndaily.com/MOSCOW (AP) - President Vladimir Putin on Monday passed greetings from U.S. President Donald Trump to the visiting Palestinian leader, who responded that he doesn't want to cooperate with Washington following its decision to recognize Jerusalem as the Israeli capital.

Speaking at the start of their meeting in the Kremlin, Putin told Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas that he was just off the phone with Trump.

"Naturally, we spoke about the Palestinian-Israeli settlement," he said. "I would like to convey to you his best wishes."

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, shakes hands with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, during their meeting in the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. President Vladimir Putin said during a meeting with the Palestinian leader that he had just spoken by telephone with U.S. President Donald Trump. (Mikhail Klimentyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Abbas responded that the Palestinians don't want to cooperate with the United States as a sponsor of the peace process, but welcome multilateral cooperation.

Trump honored a campaign promise in December by recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and vowing to relocate the U.S. Embassy there.

The move outraged Palestinians and others across the Muslim world. Palestinian leaders have said it means that Washington can no longer serve as a Mideast peace broker.

"We refuse to cooperate with the Americans as co-sponsors," Abbas told Putin in remarks carried by Russian news agencies. "President Trump again surprised us. His decision to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and consider Jerusalem the capital of Israel was like a slap in our face."VATICAN CITY (AP) - The Vatican's sex abuse investigator has agreed to meet with a delegation of lay Catholics and priests from the Chilean diocese of Osorno who have opposed the appointment of a bishop strongly backed by Pope Francis, according to an email seen Monday by The Associated Press.

The Vatican's embassy in Santiago set the meeting for Feb. 21 in Santiago and asked the Osorno group to select no more than five people to meet with the investigator, Maltese Archbishop Charles Scicluna.

In the email, the Vatican's ambassador also asked delegation members to send a "detailed" document to him by Friday, five days before the meeting, outlining what they intend to tell Scicluna. The ambassador, or nuncio, said the document would help Scicluna in his fact-finding mission about Bishop Juan Barros.

But Juan Carlos Claret, spokesman for the Osorno laity, expressed concern and said he would only provide general points to the embassy ahead of time. He accused the embassy of long refusing to acknowledge or respond to their complaints about Barros, who is accused by Osorno laity of being unfit and by victims of a prominent Chilean predator priest of having witnessed their abuse and done nothing.

"During these last three years, it has been the nuncio who has blocked all attempts at dialogue, not just with the clergy but with the laity," Claret told AP.

He said he would, however, provide detailed information directly to Scicluna, who was tasked with taking testimony about Barros after Francis sparked outrage in Chile by strongly defending him and saying accusations against him were slander.

Barros was a protege of the Rev. Fernando Karadima, who was sanctioned by the Vatican in 2011 for sexually and psychologically abusing minors in his Santiago parish community. Victims testified to both Vatican and Chilean prosecutors about how Karadima would kiss and fondle them, and masturbate them behind closed doors.

One of Karadima's most outspoken victims, Juan Carlos Cruz, has said Barros - then a young priest - witnessed the abuse and did nothing, and today denies what others have testified to about a toxic and homoeroticized environment in Karadima's El Bosque community.

Barros has repeatedly denied seeing any abuse or covering it up.

Barros has been a bishop since 1995, but his 2015 appointment to Osorno sparked outrage after the Karadima scandal so damaged the Catholic Church's credibility in Chile. He has faced protests in Osorno by priests and lay Catholics who question how someone who says he never saw anything amis in El Bosque could be trusted to protect Osorno's children today.

___

Vergara reported from Santiago, Chile.Parkinson's disease has forced legendary guitarist Glenn Tipton to drop out of the upcoming Judas Priest tour.

The British rockers say Tipton is stepping down from touring due to the ailment, which began to afflict him a decade ago. In a statement issued Monday, the band said Tipton can still play some of their less-challenging songs, but he insisted that a replacement be named for the tour.

Tipton will be replaced on the band's "Firepower" tour by Andy Sneap, a veteran heavy metal producer, and the guitarist for the British band Hell.

FILE- In this Oct. 24, 2015 file photo, Glenn Tipton of Judas Priest performs at the 2015 Knotfest USA in San Bernardino, Calif. Tipton is stepping down from touring due to Parkinson's disease, a condition that began to afflict him a decade ago. He will be replaced on the band's "Firepower" tour by Andy Sneap, a veteran heavy metal producer, and the guitarist for the British band Hell. (Photo by Paul A. Hebert/Invision/AP, File)

"I want everyone to know that it's vital that the Judas Priest tour go ahead, and that I am not leaving the band; it's simply that my role has changed," Tipton said. "I don't rule out the chance to go on stage ... when I feel able to blast out some Priest! So at some point in the not too distant future, I'm really looking forward to seeing all of our wonderful metal maniacs once again."

The band's tour begins March 13 in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Their biggest hits include "You've Got Another Thing Coming,' "Living After Midnight" and "Breaking The Law."

Tipton was the lone remaining original member of Judas Priest's twin-lead guitar attack that powered solos on tracks including "Electric Eye" and "Hell Bent For Leather." Guitarist Richie Faulkner replaced the other founding guitarist, K.K. Downing, in 2011.

Tipton's bandmates Rob Halford (vocals), Ian Hill (bass), Scott Travis (drums) and Faulkner called Tipton "a true metal hero."

"We are not surprised by Glenn's insistence that we complete the 'Firepower' tour and thank Andy for joining us to make Glenn's wishes become real," they said. "We have been privileged to witness Glenn's determination and steadfast commitment over the years, showing his passion and self-belief through the writing, recording and performing sessions with Priest."

Last month, Neil Diamond announced his retirement from touring, also citing Parkinson's.

___

Online:

www.judaspriest.com

___

Follow Wayne Parry at http://twitter.com/WayneParryACNEW YORK (AP) - Donald Trump Jr.'s wife was taken to a New York City hospital on Monday as a precaution after she opened an envelope addressed to her husband that contained an unidentified white powder, though police later said the substance wasn't dangerous, authorities said.

The frightening episode happened after 10 a.m. when Trump, 40, opened the letter addressed to the president's son at her mother's midtown Manhattan apartment, investigators said. She called 911 and said she was coughing and felt nauseous, police said.

"Thankful that Vanessa & my children are safe and unharmed after the incredibly scary situation that occurred this morning," Donald Trump Jr. wrote on Twitter. "Truly disgusting that certain individuals choose to express their opposing views with such disturbing behavior."

FILE - In this Jan. 20, 2017 file photo, Vanessa Trump arrives at the U.S. Capitol on Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, in Washington, Donald Trump's inauguration ceremony. Police say Vanessa Trump, wife of Donald Trump Jr., opened an envelope that contained white powder, felt ill and was taken to New York City hospital as a precaution. A police department spokesman says a preliminary test of the powder indicated it wasn't dangerous. (Win McNamee/Pool Photo via AP, File)

The New York Fire Department said it treated three patients who were then taken to a hospital for evaluation.

Police said the envelope contained a letter but provided no other details.

Detectives from the New York Police Department's intelligence division and Secret Service agents were investigating.

Secret Service Special Agent Jeffrey Adams said in a statement that agents were investigating "a suspicious package addressed to one of our protectees" in New York but said he couldn't comment further.

Vanessa Trump, a former model, and Donald Trump Jr. have five children, none of whom were home at the time of the incident.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Monday that the president spoke by phone to Vanessa Trump about the incident.

Later, the Republican president's daughter-in-law posted a tweet thanking New York's police and fire departments, the FBI and the Secret Service for their help.

"I appreciate all the quick response to make sure that I was safe! Thank you," she wrote.

The Trump family has had to deal with a number of similar scares.

In March 2016, police detectives and FBI agents investigated a threatening letter sent to the Manhattan apartment of Donald Trump Jr.'s brother, Eric, that also contained a white powder that turned out to be harmless. Envelopes containing white powder were also sent to Trump Tower, which served as Trump's campaign headquarters, twice in 2016.

Hoax attacks using white powder play on fears that date to 2001, when letters containing deadly anthrax were mailed to news organizations and the offices of two U.S. senators. Those letters killed five people.

___

This story has been corrected to show the envelope was sent to Vanessa Trump's mother's apartment, not hers.

FILE - In a Jan. 17, 2007 file photo, Donald Trump Jr., left, and his wife Vanessa arrive for the Trump Vodka launch party by Drinks America hosted by Donald J. Trump at Les Deux in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles. Donald Trump Jr.'s wife was taken to a New York City hospital as a precaution Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, after she opened an envelope addressed to her husband that contained an unidentified white powder, police said. (AP Photo/Danny Moloshok, File)NEEDHAM, Mass. (AP) - A 24-year-old Massachusetts man accused of fatally stabbing his girlfriend and then stabbing his parents during a family gathering at a restaurant has pleaded not guilty.

MassLive.com reports that Benjamin Walsh was arraigned Monday in a hospital room, where he was taken for a psychological examination and treatment of a hand injury. Walsh was ordered to be held without bail.

Police were called to the restaurant Saturday evening in Millis, where they say Walsh stabbed his parents before he was restrained.

Walsh's mother was hospitalized in serious condition. His father was treated and released.

Officers later found the body of Walsh's girlfriend, 20-year-old Olivia Bergstrom, in the apartment they shared.

Walsh's father told The Boston Globe his son has struggled with mental health and substance abuse issues, and called the situation a "nightmare."DETROIT (AP) - A gunman involved in a domestic dispute killed his girlfriend and two women who came to her aid at a Detroit house, and wounded three officers during a 14-hour standoff that ended Monday when police found the suspect dead of a self-inflicted gunshot, authorities said Monday.

Police identified the dead suspect as Lance Smith, 49, who had no criminal history and had not been in contact with police before the shooting.

Police received a call about shots fired at the residence at 10:27 p.m. Sunday. The call was placed by an off-duty Detroit Public Schools police officer who happened to live in the neighborhood, Police Chief James Craig said.

Detroit police officers are at the scene of a barricaded gunman situation Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018, in Detroit. Detroit police say they're seeking a gunman after two women were fatally shot and an officer was wounded while responding to the shooting on Sunday. (David Guralnick/Detroit News via AP)

Responding officers were shot at and "pinned down for almost an hour," Craig said.

The three officers wounded in Detroit followed what one national group called one of the deadliest periods in recent memory for police with seven officers killed in the U.S. last week. The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund said six of the seven were shot and one died in an auto crash.

During the Detroit confrontation, police reinforcements were eventually able to remove two female relatives of Smith's girlfriend who had been fatally shot and the off-duty school officer, who had injuries that were not life-threatening. The two relatives had gone to the house for support during the dispute.

"Unfortunately, they became victims as well," Barren said. The names of the three female victims were not immediately released.

The off-duty school officer is married to one of the female victims, police said. Smith shot two other officers who responded to the scene. Their wounds also were not life-threatening.

"The suspect was heard saying, 'I will not be taken without a fight,'" Craig said. "He clearly expressed an intention to do harm; he clearly expressed intention to hurt police officers."

Craig told a news conference that police last spoke to the suspect at about 2:30 a.m. Monday.

Officers used a robot to enter the home later Monday morning to confirm that the gunman and a third female victim were dead, Michigan State Police Lt. Michael Shaw said.

Detroit police officers are at the scene of a barricaded gunman situation Monday, Feb. 12, 2018 in Detroit. Two women were fatally shot and a police officer and another person wounded. (David Guralnick/Detroit News via AP) (David Guralnick/Detroit News via AP)WASHINGTON (AP) - Highlights from President Donald Trump's budget for fiscal year 2019, released Monday.

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DEFENSE

The President's FY19 Budget is on display after arriving on Capitol Hill in Washington, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Trump's budget for 2019 shows the administration's concern about the threat from North Korea and its missile program.

The Pentagon is proposing to spend hundreds of millions more in 2019 on missile defense.

The budget calls for increasing the number of strategic missile interceptors from 44 to 64 and boosting other elements of missile defense.

The additional 20 interceptors would be based at Fort Greely, Alaska. Critics question the reliability of the interceptors, arguing that years of testing has yet to prove them to be sufficiently effective against a sophisticated threat.

The Pentagon also would invest more heavily in other missile defense systems, including the ship-based Aegis system and the Army's Patriot air and missile defense system, both of which are designed to defend against missiles of various ranges short of the intercontinental ballistic missile that is of greatest U.S. concern in the context of North Korea.

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BORDER WALL

The second stage of Trump's proposed border wall in Texas' Rio Grande Valley would be 65 miles (104 kilometers) long, costing an average of $24.6 million a mile, according to the president's 2019 budget.

That matches the amount requested in Trump's 2018 budget to build or replace 74 miles (118 kilometers) in San Diego and Rio Grande Valley, the busiest corridor for illegal crossings.

Walls currently cover about one-third of the border with Mexico, and the administration wants eventually to spend up to $18 billion to extend the wall to nearly half the border. Trump has insisted Mexico pay for it; Mexico says that's a non-starter.

The proposal sets aside $782 million to hire 2,000 U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, whose responsibilities include making deportation arrests, and 750 more Border Patrol agents toward Trump's long-term goal of 5,000. The proposal comes even as the administration has been unable to fill vacancies caused by attrition.

The administration also wants to raise capacity at its immigration detention facilities to 52,000 people.

It wants to collect $208 million in fees on "legitimate trade and travel" to pay for investigations into fraud and employers who hire people in the country illegally.

The budget also calls for adding 450 Secret Service agents and support staff to reach 7,600 this year and inch toward a long-term goal of 9,500. It sets aside $6.9 billion for disaster relief.

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MEDICARE

Trump's budget proposes major changes to Medicare's popular prescription benefit, creating winners and losers among the 42 million seniors with drug coverage.

On the plus side for seniors, the budget requires the insurance plans that deliver the prescription benefit to share with beneficiaries a substantial portion of rebates they receive from drug makers.

The budget also eliminates the 5 percent share of costs that an estimated 1 million beneficiaries with very high drug bills now must keep paying when they reach Medicare's "catastrophic" coverage. Instead seniors would pay nothing once they reach Medicare's catastrophic coverage level, currently $8,418 in total costs.

But on the minus side, the budget calls for changing the way Medicare accounts for certain discounts that drug makers now provide to seniors with significant drug bills.

That complex change would mean fewer seniors reach catastrophic coverage, and some will end up paying more than they do now.

"It will increase costs for some, while saving money for others," said Tricia Neuman of the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation. "Overall it could be a wash."

The budget also makes multiple cuts in different streams of Medicare payments going to hospitals and rehabilitation centers.

Medicare spending totals more than $700 billion a year, and hospitals represent the single biggest category of costs.

Overall, the budget calls for about $500 billion over 10 years in cuts from projected Medicare spending.

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EDUCATION

School choice advocates will find something to cheer in Trump's budget.

Fulfilling a campaign promise, he is proposing to put "more decision-making power in the hands of parents and families" in choosing schools for their children with a $1.5 billion investment for the coming year. The budget would expand both private and public school choice.

A new Opportunity Grants program would provide money for states to give scholarships to low-income students to attend private schools, as well as expand charter schools across the nation. Charters are financed by taxpayer dollars but usually run independently of school district requirements.

The budget also calls for increased spending to expand the number of magnet schools that offer specialized instruction usually focused on specific curricula.

Last year, the Trump administration also called for boosting charter and private school funding, but those initiatives didn't win the approval of Congress.

Among other key components is spending $200 million on STEM education and $43 million to implement school-based opioid abuse prevention strategies.

Overall, the budget calls for a $7.1 billion, a 10.5 percent decrease from 2017. On the chopping block is $5.9 million in teacher preparation and aftercare programs. Last year, proposals for similar cuts were met with harsh criticism from teachers' unions and educators across the country.

___

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

Climate change research is on the Environmental Protection Agency's chopping block.

Trump's proposed 2019 budget calls for slashing funding for the Environmental Protection Agency by more than one third, including ending the Climate Change Research and Partnership Programs.

The president's budget would also make deep cuts to funding for cleaning up the nation's most polluted sites, even as EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt has said that is one of his top priorities. Trump's budget would allocate just $762 million for the Hazardous Substance Superfund Account, a reduction of more than 30 percent.

Current spending for Superfund is already down to about half of what it was in the 1990s. Despite the cut, the White House's budget statement says the administration plans to "accelerate" site cleanups by bringing "more private funding to the table for redevelopment."

After the president's budget was developed, Congress reached a bipartisan agreement that would boost non-defense domestic spending for the next fiscal year. In response, Trump budget director Mick Mulvaney filed an addendum that seeks to restore about $724 million to EPA, including additional money for Superfund cleanups and drinking water infrastructure grants.

Still, Trump's budget calls for cutting programs that fight ocean pollution and raise public awareness about environmental issues and problems. The budget also would eliminate money for the popular Energy Star program, seeking instead to raise "a modest fee" from appliance and electronics manufacturers who seek to label their products as being energy efficient.

Agency staffing would be cut by more than 20 percent, from 15,400 full-time positions to 12,250.

Like Trump, Pruitt has expressed doubt about the consensus of climate scientists, including those at his own agency, that man-made carbon emissions are the primary driver of increasing average temperatures observed around the globe. The nation's top environmental official has instead advocated for the increased production and burning of fossil fuels.

__

"OBAMACARE"

The budget assumes that Congress will repeal and replace former President Barack Obama's health care law, although there's little evidence that Republican leaders have the appetite for another battle over "Obamacare."

Repeal of the Affordable Care Act should happen "as soon as possible," say the budget documents.

The Obama health law would be replaced with legislation modeled after an ill-fated GOP bill whose lead authors were Sens. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said it would leave millions more uninsured.

The budget calls for a program of block grants that states could use to set up their own programs for covering the uninsured.

___

VETERANS

The Veterans Choice health care program would get a big boost under Trump's 2019 budget.

The budget proposes an overall increase of $8.7 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs, primarily to strengthen medical care for more than 9 million enrolled veterans. A key component is a proposed $11.9 billion to revamp the Veterans Choice program, a Trump campaign priority. The planned expansion would give veterans wider freedom to receive government-paid care from private doctors and MinuteClinics outside the VA system. It has yet to be approved by Congress, however, in part due to disagreement over rising costs and concerns over privatizing VA.

Under the increased budget caps approved by Congress last week, the Trump administration also tacked on an additional $2.4 billion for Choice and other expenses. Lawmakers' delay in reaching agreement has meant that a larger overhaul of VA Choice isn't likely to be fully implemented until 2019 or later.

VA Secretary David Shulkin says Choice will help significantly reduce wait times at VA medical centers.

The program was put in place after a 2014 wait-time scandal that was discovered at the Phoenix VA hospital and elsewhere throughout the country. Veterans waited weeks or months for appointments, while phony records covered up the lengthy waits. The program allows veterans to go to private doctors if they endure long waits for VA appointments, but it has suffered extended wait times of its own.

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STATE

Trump's budget includes a modest increase of $191 million for what's known as "overseas contingency operations," or active war zones like Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson had argued in the past that the impending resolution of major global conflicts would decrease the need for U.S. spending and allow the Trump administration to significantly reduce what it spends overseas.

Some of the most dramatic proposed cuts affect the State Department's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, which would see its budget cut by about $126 million, a reduction of nearly half of what it received in the past.

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INTERIOR

The Interior Department's proposed $11.7 billion budget includes $1.3 billion to address a growing backlog of projects to maintain and improve roads, bridges, park buildings and other infrastructure. The agency has an estimated $16 billion deferred maintenance backlog, including more than $11 billion for the National Park Service alone.

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said the nation's parks and wildlife refuges "are being loved to death" and need significant work to keep pace with an increased number of visitors. The National Mall in Washington, for instance, needs at least $800 million in maintenance, Zinke said.

As part of the Trump administration's infrastructure plan, officials have proposed an $18 billion public lands infrastructure fund to help pay for repairs and improvements in national parks, wildlife refuges and schools overseen by the Bureau of Indian Education, an Interior agency. The fund, which needs congressional approval, would be paid for in part through a projected 50 percent increase in energy leasing and development on federal lands, part of the administration's strategy to achieve U.S. "energy dominance" in the global market.

The budget also includes $17.5 million to begin to implement Zinke's plan to reorganize the department and shift staffers at some agency headquarters, including the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureaus of Land Management and Reclamation, to the West.

___

ENERGY

The Trump administration is seeking $30.6 billion for the Energy Department, a figure that includes an additional $1.5 billion authorized under a two-year budget deal that Congress approved last week. Much of the additional funding, $1.2 billion, goes to the Office of Science to pay for basic scientific research.

Energy Secretary Rick Perry said in a statement that the budget request supports the agency's push to enhance energy security and modernize the nuclear weapons stockpile while boosting funding for cybersecurity and emphasizing the role of the 17 national laboratories that do cutting-edge research on everything from clean energy technologies to supercomputing to nuclear science.

The budget again proposes steep cuts to energy efficiency and renewable-energy programs and calls for eliminating DOE's loan program and the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy, DOE's innovation arm. Members of Congress from both parties support all the programs and are likely to restore much of the funding, although the loan program could face cuts. The Senate approved record funding levels for ARPA-E for the current budget year despite Trump's plan to dismantle it.

Trump's budget again proposes $120 million to revive a long-stalled nuclear waste dump at Nevada's Yucca Mountain. The state's Republican governor and lawmakers from both parties oppose the plan.

___

HOUSING

The budget proposes deep cuts to funding for rental assistance programs, eliminates community block grants and references future legislation that will implement work requirements for some tenants receiving public assistance.

Trump's proposal reduces the budget for rental assistance programs by more than 11 percent compared with 2017. It also eliminates funding for the Public Housing Capital Fund, dedicated to supporting public housing complexes, and Community Development Block Grants, which are doled out to cities, counties and communities for development projects.

The budget also requests legislation that would require able-bodied tenants who are receiving federal housing assistance to work.

In a two-year agreement passed last week and signed by the president, Congress included an additional $2 billion earmarked for HUD. That addendum adds $1 billion to "avoid rent increases on elderly and disabled families receiving rental increases." It also adds another $700 million toward housing vouchers for low-income individuals and families, and $300 million to aide public housing authorities.

Housing advocates say Trump's proposal is "cruel and unconscionable."

"President Trump is making clear, in no uncertain terms, his willingness to increase evictions and homelessness for the families who could lose their rental assistance through severe funding cuts, and for the low-income and vulnerable seniors, people with disabilities and families with kids who will be unable to manage having to spend more of their very limited income to cover rent hikes," National Low Income Housing Coalition president and CEO Diane Yentel said in a statement.

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JUSTICE

Trump's 2019 Justice Department budget reiterates the administration's priorities: fighting the opioid epidemic, fighting violent crime and drug trafficking gangs while providing tough immigration enforcement. It seeks more than $109 million for crime-fighting efforts, including $70 million for a partnership with state and local authorities called Project Safe Neighborhoods that targets gun offenders.

It would also move the tobacco and alcohol-related responsibilities of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives into the Treasury Department, which officials say would eliminate duplicative duties and allow the agency to focus more closely on fighting street crime.

There's also a request for $13.2 million and 25 new positions to help "modernize" and speed up the ATF's ability to register restricted weapons, such as machine guns and suppressors, after a steady increase in applications.

The budget also seeks $295 million directed toward the opioid epidemic. That includes a proposed $31.2 million for eight new "heroin enforcement groups" to be sent to hard-hit Drug Enforcement Administration offices. Additional agents would target Mexican drug gangs.

The proposal also seeks $39.8 million for the Executive Office for Immigration Review, which oversees immigration courts and is still experiencing a backlog of immigration cases. That would include 75 new immigration judges and additional attorneys. The administration wants $25 million for a technological boost for that office, which it says still struggles with a "wholly paper-based system that is both cumbersome and inefficient."

Special counsel Robert Mueller's team investigating possible Trump campaign ties to Russia is funded separately and not affected by budget requests to Congress.

__

FOOD STAMPS

Trump's budget proposes massive cuts to the program that provides more than 42 million Americans with food stamps.

The budget also floats the idea of new legislation that would require able-bodied adults to work or participate in a work program in order to receive benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The president's budget would reduce the SNAP program by roughly $213 billion over the next ten years.

The budget calls for a $17 billion reduction in 2019, and proposes "a bold new approach" to administering SNAP that will include a combination of traditional food stamps and packages of "100 percent American grown foods provided directly to households."

Stacy Dean, vice president for food assistance policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said the proposed cuts to SNAP account for nearly 30 percent of the program.

She said the proposal, if enacted, "would be devastating for the one-in-eight Americans who use SNAP to put food on the table every day."

"It would reduce benefits and undercut the program's efficiency and effectiveness," she said.

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INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

The Trump administration wants NASA out of the International Space Station by 2025 and to have private businesses running the place instead.

Under Trump's 2019 proposed budget, U.S. government funding for the space station would end by 2025. The government would set aside $150 million to encourage commercial development.

Many space experts are expressing concern. Sen. Bill Nelson, a Florida Democrat who rocketed into orbit in 1986, said "turning off the lights and walking away from our sole outpost in space" makes no sense.

Retired NASA historian and Smithsonian curator Roger Launius notes that any such move will affect all the other countries involved in the space station; Russia is a major player, as are Europe, Japan and Canada. "I suspect this will be a major aspect of any decisions about ISS's future," Launius wrote in an email.

NASA has spent close to $100 billion on the orbiting outpost since the 1990s. The first piece was launched in 1998, and the complex was essentially completed with the retirement of NASA's space shuttles in 2011.

Private businesses already have a hand in the project. The end of the shuttle program prompted NASA to turn over supply runs to the commercial sector. SpaceX and Orbital ATK have been making deliveries since 2012, and Sierra Nevada Corp. will begin making shipments with its crewless mini shuttles in a few years.

___

THE ARTS

Trump's budget calls for the elimination of the National Endowment for the Arts and National Endowment for the Humanities, two prominent grant programs founded in the 1960s that Trump proposed ending in last year's budget. Under his proposal, the NEA and NEH would "begin" shutting down in 2019. Neither organization should be considered "core Federal responsibilities." Each program currently receives just under $150 million.

Although some conservatives have long complained about the NEA and NEH, the programs have bipartisan support and funding for them was restored by Congress in 2017. Trump is also seeking to shut down other arts and scholarly programs that Congress has backed, including the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.FARMINGTON, Conn. (AP) - A Connecticut man has been charged in connection with a head-on crash last year that left two people from Canada dead.

Farmington police on Monday announced that 54-year-old Edward Brozynski, of Newington, faces two counts of second-degree manslaughter with a motor vehicle and other charges in connection with the crash Sept. 14 on Route 6 in Farmington.

Benoit Boislard and Rejean St. Pierre, both 66 from Quebec, Canada, rear seat passengers in the other vehicle, died. A front seat passenger was seriously injured while Brozysnki and the other driver were injured.

Police say Brozynski was headed west when his car crossed into the eastbound lane and collided with the other car.

Brozynski was held pending a court appearance Tuesday. It could not immediately be determined if he has a lawyer.ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - A Minnesota woman who is accused of trying to travel to Afghanistan to join al-Qaida was "self-radicalized" and intended to kill people when she set several fires on a college campus last month, a federal prosecutor argued Monday.

Tnuza Jamal Hassan, 19, of Minneapolis, was arrested last month after allegedly setting nine fires at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, where she is a former student. No one was hurt in the Jan. 17 fires, but one was set in a dormitory that houses a day care where 33 children were present.

When interviewed by investigators, Hassan said she had expected the buildings to burn down and "she hoped people would get killed," Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Winter said during a hearing Monday in U.S. District Court.

FILE - This file photo provided by the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office in St. Paul, Minn., shows Tnuza Jamal Hassan, of Minnesota. Hassan, who authorities say had hoped to kill people when she set fires in January 2018 on a college campus, has been ordered detained by a federal judge. Hassan pleaded not guilty Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, to federal counts of attempting to provide material support to al-Qaida, lying to the FBI and arson. (Ramsey County Sheriff's Office via AP, File)

Hassan pleaded not guilty Monday to federal counts of attempting to provide material support to al-Qaida, lying to the FBI and arson. She also faces a state arson charge.

Her attorney, Robert Sicoli, argued she was "unsophisticated" and should be placed on house arrest and electronic monitoring. But U.S. Magistrate Steven Rau ordered her detained, citing a risk of flight and danger to the community.

According to prosecutors, Hassan wrote a letter to two fellow St. Catherine students in March in an attempt to encourage them to "join the jihad in fighting" and to join al-Qaida, the Taliban or al-Shabab. Then in September, she tried to travel to Afghanistan and made it as far as Dubai, United Arab Emirates, before she was stopped because she lacked a required visa.

Winter said Hassan admitted to investigators that she tried to join al-Qaida, saying she'd probably get married and not fight. But when pressed, she allegedly told investigators she guessed she would carry out a suicide bombing if she was the only one to do it.

"By all accounts, she self-radicalized," Winter said, adding that a search of her laptop showed she had been watching videos online and researching places to go to wage a jihad.

Sicoli said Hassan, who is a U.S. citizen, had no contact with anyone in Afghanistan, didn't know she needed a visa and no phone number of anyone to contact if she got there.

According to state court documents, Hassan admitted she set the fires because she read about the U.S. military destroying schools in Iraq or Afghanistan and she wanted to do the same thing. She also told state investigators they were "lucky" she didn't know how to build a bomb, the state criminal complaint said.

Hassan was an English major who last enrolled at St. Catherine's in the fall 2017 semester but is not currently a student.

__

Follow Amy Forliti on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/amyforliti . More of her work at: https://apnews.com/search/amy%20forlitiNEWPORT NEWS, Va. (AP) - A Virginia woman who faked her own death in connection with an elaborate fraud scheme has been sentenced to four years in prison.

Fifty-year-old Alexandra Hatcher of Portsmouth pleaded guilty last year in federal court in Newport News. She was sentenced Monday. Her husband, Albert Hatcher Jr., also pleaded guilty and received a four-year sentence at a hearing last month.

Her lawyers requested she receive a lesser sentence than her husband, citing psychological issues.

Authorities say the couple conspired to collect on life insurance policies, submitting false death claims on at least two policies. Prosecutors say the scheme included creating fake death certificates and publishing a death notice in a newspaper.

Prosecutors say that after insurers denied their claims, the Hatchers fraudulently obtained at least 20 luxury vehicles with bogus checks.BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) - U.S. prosecutors believe Venezuela's former oil czar and ambassador to the United Nations received bribes as part of an alleged multibillion-dollar graft scheme in that nation's oil industry, according to an official familiar with the U.S. investigation.

Rafael Ramirez is named as a bribe recipient although not charged in an indictment against other former officials that was partially unsealed Monday.

Prosecutors in Houston leading a widening probe into corruption at Venezuela's state-run oil giant PDVSA allege in the unsealed portion of the indictment that proceeds from bribes were shared with someone identified as "Official B."

That unidentified politician is Ramirez, says a U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to discuss the matter.

Ramirez in the past has denied corruption allegations.KALAMAZOO, Mich. (AP) - A Michigan funeral home will honor a therapy dog that comforted people as they grieved the loss of loved ones.

Betzler Life Story Funeral Home will hold an open house Tuesday for Hollie, who died Feb. 6, the Kalamazoo Gazette reported . The golden retriever worked at the funeral home for 16 years, providing comfort for those coping with death.

Holding the event is a fitting way to say goodbye to Hollie in the way she helped send others off, said Patrick Bauschke, a funeral director at Betzler

This 2012 photo provided by the Betzler Life Story Funeral Home in Kalamazoo, Mich, shows golden retriever Hollie, a therapy dog that comforted people at the funeral home as they grieved the loss of loved ones. The funeral home will hold an open house on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018, for Hollie, who died on Feb. 6. (Scott Betzler/Betzler Life Story Funeral Home via AP)

"Mention the Betzler name and chances are people will remember Hollie," Bauschke said. "She happily greeted people at the door, mingled throughout visitations and services, and offered a calming and comforting influence on those who needed her most."

Scott Betzler, Hollie's owner, was inspired to use her as a therapy dog while on the Kalamazoo Humane Society's board of directors. The organization offered pet visitation programs to nursing homes.

"It was very different at the time to have a dog in a funeral home," Bauschke said. "But Hollie made it the most natural fit. She's worked thousands of funerals and visitations and helped countless people."

Hollie completed temperance training at the humane society. She also visited senior communities and elementary schools.

Hollie had a soothing effect on people and "an unmatched sense of knowing just who needed her and when," Bauschke said.

Hollie will be cremated as part of the funeral home's Life Tails Pet Cremation service.

Ellie, an English Retriever, will take over Hollie's role at the funeral home.

___

Information from: Kalamazoo Gazette, http://www.mlive.com/kalamazooLONDON (AP) - Antonio Conte received vocal backing from Chelsea supporters during a 3-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion on Monday that eased pressure building on the manager after back-to-back Premier League losses.

Eden Hazard scored twice, either side of Victor Moses' strike, as Chelsea returned to fourth place and West Brom remained stranded at the bottom, seven points from safety.

Securing Champions League qualification is now the priority for Chelsea with any prospect of successfully defending the title evaporating long ago with leader Manchester City 19 points ahead of the champions.

Chelsea's Eden Hazard, centre, celebrates after scoring the opening goal of the game during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion at Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Chants of "Antonio, Antonio" rang around Stamford Bridge, reflecting a desire from sections of the fan base for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich to resist dismissing Conte before the end of his second season.

It still seems unlikely, given the constant grumbles about his limited control of transfer policy, that Conte will be in charge for a third campaign with the west London club.

While managers are disposable commodities for Abramovich, retaining a player with the trickery and attacking threat of Hazard is essential. Six of Chelsea's last 10 league goals have been provided by Hazard.

The Belgium winger unpicked West Brom for the opener in the 25th minute by wriggling through the defense and playing a one-two with new signing Olivier Giroud before stroking the ball into the bottom corner of the net.

West Brom, which saw on-loan Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge limp off inside three minutes, was blunt in attack. Salomon Rondon's strike in the side netting was the closest the ailing central England team came to scoring.

Such is the unease around Chelsea these days that the hosts could only ease up after Moses produced the second in the 63rd minute.

Moses broke down the right and passed to Cesc Fabregas, whose back-heel flick took a deflection off Craig Dawson to take the ball back into the path of the wingback to slot home.

Alvaro Morata, who came off the bench for his first appearance in almost a month, set up Hazard to cut inside and find a gap to fire in Chelsea's third in the 71st minute.

___

AP Premier League coverage: www.apnews.com/tag/PremierLeague

Chelsea's Eden Hazard, left, celebrates after scoring the opening goal of the game during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion at Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Chelsea's N'Golo Kante, right, vies for the ball with West Bromwich Albion's Jay Rodriguez during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion at Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Chelsea's Oliver Giroud, left, holds off the challenge of West Bromwich Albion's Chris Brunt during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion at Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)PHOENIX (AP) - The Latest on a helicopter crash at the west rim of the Grand Canyon (all times local):

5:45 p.m.

Investigators hope to speak to the four survivors of a helicopter crash at the Grand Canyon as they begin to recover from critical injuries.

In this Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, photo, a survivor, lower right, walks away from the scene of a deadly tour helicopter crash along the jagged rocks of the Grand Canyon, in Arizona. (Teddy Fujimoto via AP)

Three British tourists died when a sightseeing helicopter they were on crashed onto the jagged rocks of the Grand Canyon on Saturday evening.

Three other British tourists and the pilot survived and were airlifted to a Las Vegas hospital.

Authorities said Monday that 42-year-old pilot Scott Booth suffered a limb injury.

The other survivors from the United Kingdom are 29-year-old Ellie Milward, 32-year-old Jonathan Udall and 39-year-old Jennifer Barham.

Details of their injuries weren't immediately available.

_____

5:15 p.m.

A helicopter crash that killed three Britons happened on tribal land where air tours are not as highly regulated as those inside Grand Canyon National Park.

Air tour operators at the national park have restricted routes, curfews and an annual limit on the number of flights. That's not the case on the Hualapai (WAHL'-uh-peye) reservation.

The Federal Aviation Administration granted the Hualapai Tribe an exemption from those regulations 18 years ago after finding they would harm the tribe's economy. Pilots there can fly between the canyon walls and land at the bottom near the Colorado River on the reservation.

Most of the flights originate from Las Vegas, and air tour operators aggressively market them.

The National Transportation Safety board says it can't say with any certainty yet what caused Saturday's crash.

___

2:30 p.m.

National Transportation Safety Board investigators are hiking rugged, rocky terrain to reach the site of a Grand Canyon sightseeing helicopter crash that killed three British tourists.

Special investigator Stephen Stein said Monday that there's evidence the wreckage was on fire after the crash at the base of the Grand Canyon near the Colorado River.

Stein says investigators are in contact with the four survivors of the crash and are hoping to get statements from them over the next few days as they recover from critical injuries.

Stein declined to speculate on what may have caused the crash, though he said a preliminary report will be ready in the coming days.

He says flights into the Grand Canyon are expected to restart in the next day or two after approval from the Federal Aviation Administration.

__

7:15 a.m.

The three people who died on a sightseeing tour of the Grand Canyon have been identified as a veterinary receptionist, her boyfriend and his brother.

Family and friends of 27-year-old Becky Dobson, 30-year-old Stuart Hill and 32-year-old Jason Hill say the Britons had gone to Las Vegas to celebrate Stuart Hill's birthday.

Dobson's father told Britain's Press Association news agency that they had been looking forward to the trip for a long time.

The three were killed when their helicopter crashed Saturday onto the jagged rocks of the Grand Canyon on the Hualapai (WAHL'-uh-peye) reservation outside the boundaries of the national park.

Three other British tourists and the pilot survived and were airlifted to a Las Vegas hospital.

The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating.

___

12:05 a.m.

Authorities say three British tourists died when a sightseeing helicopter they were on crashed onto the jagged rocks of the Grand Canyon. Three other British tourists and the pilot survived and were airlifted to a Las Vegas hospital.

A witness said he saw flames and black smoke spewing from the crash site, heard explosions and saw victims bleeding and badly burned.

The Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters chopper crashed under unknown circumstances Saturday evening on the Hualapai Nation's land by the Grand Canyon's West Rim

Hualapai Nation Police Chief Francis Bradley says navigating the rugged terrain in the dark made it difficult for first-responders to reach the helicopter's wreckage.

The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating.

The Nevada-based company says it cooperating fully with investigators.NEW YORK (AP) - An Oregon woman who had worms coming out of her eye is being called the first known human case of a parasitic infection spread by flies.

Fourteen tiny worms were removed from the left eye of the 26-year-old woman in August 2016. Scientists reported the case Monday.

The woman, Abby Beckley, was diagnosed in August 2016 with Thelazia gulosa. That's a type of eye worm seen in cattle in the northern United States and southern Canada, but never before in humans.

This August 2016 photo provided by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) shows inflammation (in the circle added by the source) from the infection caused by Thelazia gulosa, a type of eye worm seen in cattle in the northern United States and southern Canada, inside of the eyelid of a woman. The Oregon woman who had worms coming out of her eye is being called the first known human case of a parasitic infection spread by flies. Fourteen tiny worms were removed from the left eye of the 26-year-old woman in August 2016. Scientists reported the case Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. (OHSU via AP)

They are spread by a type of fly known as "face flies." The flies feed on the tears that lubricate the eyeball, scientists said.

She had been horseback riding and fishing in Gold Beach, Oregon, a coastal, cattle-farming area.

After a week of eye irritation, Beckley pulled a worm from her eye. She visited doctors, but removed most of the additional worms herself during the following few weeks.

The worms were translucent and each less than half an inch long.

After they were removed, no more worms were found and she had no additional symptoms.

Eye worms are seen in several kinds of animals, including cats and dogs. They can be spread by different kinds of flies.

Two other types of Thelazia eye worm infections had been seen in people before, but never this kind, according to Richard Bradbury of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He was the study's lead author.

The report was published in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene.

___

This story has been corrected to reflect that the infected woman, not doctors, removed most of the worms from her eye.Two Baltimore police detectives face up to 60 years in prison after being convicted in an explosive corruption case which has rocked the city's police department.

Daniel Hersl and Marcus Taylor were shackled and led out of court where some of their relatives burst into tears, while one of their victims called out: 'Justice.'

They now face an anxious wait to find out how long they will be sentenced to, having been found guilty of robbery, racketeering, and conspiracy.

The pair were part of a wider group in the force who targeted bigtime drug dealers with huge loots of cash and narcotics to steal.

Armed with machetes and sledgehammers, the detectives' organization was based on a simple mantra - steal from drug dealers because they have nowhere to turn.

But it turns out the criminals did have somewhere to turn - the stand to having testified against the officers, who now face up to 60 years in jail.

Daniel Hersl (left) and Marcus Taylor (right) were shackled an led out of court where some of their relatives burst into tears, while one of their victims called out: 'Justice'

The first drug dealer to take the stand last Tuesday was Dennis Armstrong, who says officers stopped him trying to leave a storage container where he stored cocaine.

He said officers stole $8,000 from him and reported seizing just $2,800 - secretly pocketing the rest. He said they also destroyed his storage unit and stole two kilograms of cocaine.

Armstrong says he never reported the missing drugs because he feared he would face additional jail time.

The rest of the dealers took the stand on Wednesday.

Sergio Summerville, a self-confessed small-time drug dealer, described a similar incident in September 2016, when he too was stopped by members of the GTTF while leaving the storage unit where he was living.

He said one of the officers claimed to be a member of the federal Drug Enforcement Administration and that they had a warrant to search his unit. Both turned out to be false.

'They didn't even know my name, after we talked for awhile,' Summerville said. 'I said, 'If you have a warrant and know everything, why are you asking my name?''

Nonetheless, the officers raided his storage unit and took the $4,800 he had hidden in a sock. He says the officers appeared to be disappointed by the amount. They then left without arresting him.

'They came at me like a gang or something,' Summerville said.

Oreese Stevenson is another former dealer who made a deal with prosecutors to testify during the trial.

He said he was about to sell drugs from his car when Taylor arrested him.

Officers then stole his keys and searched his home, finding 10 kilos of cocaine and $200,000-$300,000 dollars.

He says officers stole about $100,000 of the cash and some of the cocaine.

Earlier in the trial, two officers testified that the split the $100,000 and went gambling with the money that night.

Stevenson's longtime girlfriend Keona Holloway also testified and said the officers took an expensive watch and a bag of clothes.

Holloway said she did not know the drugs and cash were inside the home.

Oreese Stevenson was among several former drug dealers who took the stand this week to testify against two corrupt Baltimore cops

Jemell Rayam (left) and Momondu Gando (right) are among the detectives who already pleaded guilty

On Monday evening, acting US Attorney Stephen Schenning said he was hopeful that the police corruption case 'will begin a long difficult process of examining how' the Baltimore force polices its own.

'We hope that police officers live up to the honor and privilege of the badge,' Schenning said on the courthouse steps.

The trial was dominated by four ex-detectives who testified that the police department's elite Gun Trace Task Force was actually made up of thugs with badges who stole cash, resold looted narcotics and lied under oath to cover their tracks.

They detailed acts of astonishing police criminality, including armed home invasions, stretching back to 2008.

Acting Police Commissioner Darryl DeSousa said in a statement immediately after the verdict that the department will move to fire Hersl and Taylor, who have been suspended without pay since being indicted and arrested in March.

Much of the testimony focused on Gun Trace Task Force members who pleaded guilty, including the unit's onetime supervisor, Sergeant Wayne Jenkins (pictured)

'We recognize that this indictment and subsequent trial uncovered some of the most egregious and despicable acts ever perpetrated in law enforcement,' DeSousa said.

William Purpura, Hersl's lead attorney, said the family was disappointed in the verdict but noted that the jury 'did acquit him of one of the more serious crimes'.

He said a decision about a possible appeal would be made later.

Both men were cleared of possessing a firearm in pursuance of a violent crime.

Taylor's defense team and his relatives did not immediately speak to reporters after the Monday evening verdict.

Much of the testimony during the trial focused on Gun Trace Task Force members who pleaded guilty, including the out-of-control unit's onetime supervisor, Sergeant Wayne Jenkins.

He was portrayed as a wildly corrupt officer leading his unit on a tireless quest to shake down civilians and find 'monsters' - bigtime drug dealers with lots of loot to steal.

His subordinates testified that the onetime amateur mixed martial arts fighter told his officers to carry BB guns in case they ever needed to plant weapons and occasionally posed as a federal agent when shaking down targets.

Former colleagues said Jenkins' sledgehammer approach to policing extended to having actual sledgehammers - along with crowbars, grappling hooks, black masks and even a machete - stored in his police-issued car to ramp up illegal activities.

It's not clear when Jenkins and the other ex-detectives who pleaded guilty will be sentenced by a federal judge.

Four disgraced ex-officers testified for the government in hopes of shaving years off their sentences.

The defense teams for Hersl and Taylor had asked jurors to distrust the motivations of the government's witnesses, including a number of convicted drug dealers who received immunity for their testimony in the case.

Schenning said he was thankful the jurors saw through that.

'That was the business model for this organization - they thought if you rob drug dealers they have no place to go,' he said.

Pictured left: Evodio Hendrix. Pictured right: Maurice Ward. They await their sentencing by a judge

Purpura did not deny that his 48-year-old client took money but said the thefts didn't rise to the more serious charges of robbery or extortion.

The two defense teams also attacked the veracity of the four disgraced detectives, noting that they've admitted to lying for years to juries, judges, colleagues and their families.

Assistant US Attorney Leo Wise reminded jurors that the central question in the trial was the actions of the rogue police unit, and whether some of their robbery victims made money 'selling drugs or Girl Scout cookies' was irrelevant.

Public defenders say there could be a few thousand tainted cases stretching back to 2008 involving the jailed members of the disbanded Gun Trace Task Force.

So far, roughly 125 cases involving the eight indicted Baltimore law enforcers have been dropped.

'Beyond the sheer credibility issues that should have been raised at the time, given how embedded their crimes were in their police work, all cases involving these officers are tainted,' said Debbie Katz Levi, head of special litigation for Baltimore's Office of the Public Defender.Scottish Secretary David Mundell will visit Hong Kong and Japan this week to strengthen trade links withing Scotland and the UK.

Mr Mundell will meet senior political and business figures on his five-day trip during which he aims to promote Scotland as a good place for investment, business and study.

In Hong Kong, Mr Mundell will meet Scottish companies seeking to develop business interests in Hong Kong and the region, Scottish students studying at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and meet winners of the annual UK Governments Hong Kong FinTech Awards.

Mr Mundell said Scottish goods and services are highly regarded abroad

During his visit to Japan, he will meet with life sciences investors, host a round-table with Japanese MPs on LGBT issues, and meet with senior Government ministers.

Mr Mundell said: Scotland has long established connections with Hong Kong and Japan and I am looking forward to building on those ties and forming new partnerships as I meet a variety of stakeholders throughout this trip  from businesses and opinion-formers to Scottish students abroad.

I am particularly keen to promote the UK Governments GREAT Festival of Innovation taking place in Hong Kong in March, offering the latest thinking on innovation across industry, society and community, building life-long partnerships.

I will also be promoting Scottish produce  such as Scottish craft gin which has been a global success story, and is extremely popular in Japan  and meeting with the Japanese investors in Scotland.

Scotlands skills, products and services are highly regarded globally, and we can build on that as we leave the EU and strike ambitious new trade deals around the world.Museum workers are to stage a fresh strike in protest at changes to their contracts which they say have led to extra work and shorter breaks.

Members of the Prospect union at the National Maritime Museum and Royal Observatory Greenwich will walk out on February 17.

The visitor and sales assistants at the London museums took action on New Years Day, saying imposed changes will mean they work an extra three weeks a year without proper compensation, while they have shorter breaks.

Strike to hit Royal Observatory in Greenwich (Nick Ansell/PA)

Caroline Hemmington, Prospect negotiations officer, said: This strike is not about stopping people from going to the museum, but to highlight how detrimental these changes have been on the staff affected.

Members have decided to take a second day of strike action to demonstrate to management how significantly these changes are felt on a day-to-day basis.

Prospect is working towards finding a resolution for our members and the best way to do this is by continuing to engage in constructive discussions with management.

A Museums spokesman said: From November 2017, Royal Museums Greenwich harmonised terms and conditions for its front-of-house staff due to a merger of the museums visitor experience and commerce departments.

One of the many proposals on the table was to pay net weekly hours rather than gross, which is common within UK industry and included maintaining annual salaries at existing levels.

This increased hourly rates of pay and proved an immediate benefit to some part-time staff and those working overtime with no adverse impact on annual salaries.

A reduction of breaks for some of the staff involved has remained at issue and after just over a year of negotiations with the union, discussions ceased without full agreement being achieved so the decision was taken to impose the new terms and conditions for those staff who had not yet agreed them, some 50 out of some 200 (or 280 if all operative staff are included).

The museum is expected to be open during the strike.Jeremy Corbyn has said the economy is failing people right across Scotland as he begins a campaign tour across parts of the country.

The Labour leader will join Richard Leonard on a series of stops in Selkirk, Midlothian and North Ayrshire this week in which he will pledge to invest in every community.

He has hit out the Scottish Government as being too timid against the powerful, but received criticism of his own for failing to back continued membership of the single market and the customs union.

Mr Corbyn said every part of Scotland is being failed economically

My Corbyn said: Our economy is broken. It is failing people right across Scotland, forcing 260,000 children into poverty, while more and more people in work are unable to make ends meet.

These problems blight every community in Scotland: from Saltcoats to Selkirk and Stornoway, we urgently need to transform a rigged system.

He added Conservative policies were helping the richest few and said Scotland needs his party in government in Westminster and Holyrood.

Mr Leonard, the Scottish Labour leader, said something needs to change and claimed too much wealth is owned by the one percent.

Today I addressed the @ScottishLabour Councillors conference about the Scottish Labour Party being on the rise again, with a renewed purpose & determination. We must win power for all those people & communities who need our Party running the country #ForTheMany and not the few. pic.twitter.com/5gFKwkneLt  Richard Leonard (@LabourRichard) February 10, 2018

He added: Poverty doesnt respect borders. The impact of austerity isnt confined to the central belt of Scotland and neither will Labours response to it be.

Labours plan to protect public services, boost wages and tackle inequality will benefit everyone.

Communities are being left behind. Only Labour has the plan and the political will to deliver the real change Scotland needs.

Meanwhile, the SNP have said Mr Corbyn will have to explain to voters why he refuses to back continued membership of the single market and the customs union.

It comes after impact analysis papers showed a so-called hard Brexit is set to hit the Scottish economys growth by up to 9%.

There is no majority in the House of Commons for a hard Tory Brexit  Jeremy Corbyn has it in his power to stop this disaster, but refuses to do so.

Joan McAlpine MSP said: The leak of Whitehall Brexit analysis means the cat is out of the bag on the crippling cost of leaving the single market and customs union.

Everybody now agrees it will inflict catastrophic damage on Scotlands economy, with fewer jobs and lower living standards.

There is no majority in the House of Commons for a hard Tory Brexit  Jeremy Corbyn has it in his power to stop this disaster, but refuses to do so.

It is little wonder that Labour cannot pull ahead of the chaotic Tory party in the opinion polls.

Scottish Conservative shadow finance secretary Murdo Fraser MSP added: Any sensible financial expert would tell you that Jeremy Corbyns hard-left economic policies would have a disastrous impact on Scotland.

Labours only idea for generating more money for public services is to hammer hard-working Scottish families.

If we instead concentrated on growing the economy through a competitive tax regime, we could raise far more money to help our schools and hospitals.Home Office concerns were overruled by the Prime Minister who insisted EU migrants coming to the UK during any withdrawal transition period would not be granted the automatic right to remain, according to reports.

Theresa Mays move went against warnings that it would be a struggle to create separate systems to register EU citizens already in Britain and new arrivals, The Times said.

The status of EU migrants arriving in the UK during the proposed transition period between March 2019 and December 2020 has become a flashpoint issue between London and Brussels in recent weeks.

Facing pressure from hardline Brexiteers, Mrs May has insisted that transition migrants could not expect the same treatment as the estimated 3.2 million EU nationals already resident in the UK, while Brussels has said all should be seen as equals.

The Number 10 stance has caused concern in the Home Office, with Government sources saying work on a separate registration scheme had barely begun and almost certainly would not be ready in time, according to the newspaper.

Downing Street and the Home Office declined to comment directly on the claims.

Constructive talks today with @MichelBarnier in Downing Street. Our teams will work intensively to agree an implementation period by March.  David Davis (@DavidDavisMP) February 5, 2018

A Home Office spokeswoman said: The Prime Minister has been clear that during the implementation period there will be a registration system for EU citizens coming to the UK.

The precise details of the implementation period are currently being negotiated with the EU, but planning is well under way.

The claims came as it emerged Billionaire investor George Soros is to pump a further 100,000 into the anti-Brexit campaign.

The move comes after Mr Soros drew fire from Brexiteers when it was revealed he was donating 400,000 to the campaign group Best for Britain to try to halt withdrawal from the EU.

The group revealed Mr Soross OFS Foundation has also pledged to match crowd-funding to it of up to 100,000.

Billionaire investor George Soros handed 400,000 to a campaign arguing against Brexit (Sean Dempsey/PA)

Best for Britain chief executive Eloise Todd said Brexit could still be stopped by a meaningful vote in Parliament.

The UKs future with the EU is not a done deal, there is still a vote to come and people across the country deserve to know the truth about the options on the table: one of which is staying and leading in the EU.

Hungarian-born Mr Soros, one of the worlds richest men who made a billion dollars betting against sterling on Black Wednesday in 1992, accused critics of a maligning him, telling The Guardian: I am happy to take the fight to those who have tried to use a smear campaign, not arguments, to prop up their failing case.

The move followed Justice Secretary David Gauke insisting there is no plot to gag Cabinet members who want a softer Brexit.

The remarks came after it emerged the three leading Cabinet Brexiteers will all give keynote speeches on the UKs EU withdrawal stance, but Chancellor Philip Hammond will not take part in the co-ordinated bid to set out the Governments position.

Liam Fox, Boris Johnson and David Davis will take part in a series of top level speeches (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Mr Gauke told ITVs Peston on Sunday: He is not part of the set of speeches that have been outlined today, but that doesnt mean that the Chancellor is not expressing his views both internally in the Cabinet conversations, but also externally.

So, I dont think that there really is anything in this, that this is somehow any kind of plot to gag a particular faction of ministers. I dont think thats a fair characterisation at all.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will kick-off the Brexit blitz on Wednesday, Valentines Day, with a call for unity over Brexit.

Mrs May will deliver a major speech on post-Brexit UK-EU security in Germany next Saturday, and will round off the process in about three weeks time with a keynote address on the overall relationship, following a special away day summit of the Cabinet withdrawal committee at Chequers.

Brexit Secretary David Davis and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox will also set out their agendas, but the only minister who backed the Remain campaign in the referendum involved in the process is Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington.Collateral  the hotly anticipated political thriller starring Carey Mulligan, John Simm and Billie Piper  is making its debut.

The BBC2 miniseries was created by playwright and screenwriter Sir David Hare.

Set in south London, it begins with the shooting of a pizza delivery man, identified as a Syrian immigrant.

Piper plays Karen Mars, who the actress describes as a complex woman.

Billie Piper in Collateral (The Forge/Robert Viglasky)

I always find that the most appealing thing in a script. She has obviously lived a difficult life and has been damaged by her past, the star said.

And Mulligan, who plays DI Kip Glaspie, has said of the female roles: Often, women are encouraged to be amenable, likeable characters, and these women are much more than that.

Nicola Walker also stars in the drama, which asks questions about the treatment of immigrants in the UK.

Collateral starts on BBC2 on Monday at 9pm.Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has spoken of witnessing sheer devastation during a visit to northern Rakhine state in Burma  where minority Rohingya Muslims have fled in recent months.

Around 700,000 Rohingya fled to neighbouring Bangladesh following ethnic violence in Burma with troops accused of widespread abuses.

Mr Johnson said he spoke to de facto Burmese leader Aung San Suu Kyi about the situation  but cast doubt that she understood the full horror of what had happened.

He said: I dont think it has come through to her the full extent, the horror of what has happened, the sheer devastation.

I dont know whether youve ever seen anything like it done by mankind against our fellow man. Ive seen nothing like it in my life.

Hundreds, hundreds of villages torched. Its absolutely devastating and I think that what is needed now is some leadership, some calm, but some leadership working with the UN agencies to get these people back home.

Boris Johnson spoke about the ongoing refugee situation (AP)

Mr Johnson added villagers were so frightened, they could not say who had burned their homes.

He said: We had this farcical account that villagers themselves had set light to their homes. The villagers themselves thought that was absurd.

I believe she (Ms Suu Kyi) can still make a change and make a difference, but to do that she needs to get the agencies in, get the refugees back home in a way that is safe and voluntary and dignified.

Speaking after meeting Ms Suu Kyi, he said: The UK is already a major donor to the humanitarian crisis. We will continue to use all our diplomatic tools and influence on the global stage to find a way to provide a better future for the Rohingya community.

I encouraged her efforts to broker a nationwide peace settlement to put to an end 70 years of conflict in her homeland.The Prime Minister and Taoiseach will travel to Northern Ireland later amid growing speculation that a deal to restore the powersharing government is imminent.

Theresa May and Leo Varadkar will meet with Stormonts main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate.

A Downing Street spokesman said Mrs May would take part in a series of meetings at Stormont House and encourage Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionists to resolve their differences.

A spokesman for Mr Varadkar said he and Mrs May would assess the state of play in the negotiations between the parties.

Mrs May will offer the UK Governments support to any powersharing initiatives

In a sign that the dynamic at Stormont has shifted gears, the Taoiseach has cancelled a scheduled meeting with Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones in Dublin on Monday in order to head to Belfast.

Downing Street said Mrs May will tell the parties her government is ready to introduce legislation to enable the re-establishment of a devolved executive as soon as possible, if an agreement materialises.

Ahead of the meetings at Stormont, the Prime Minister will visit a local business to meet staff and management.

Northern Ireland has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed.

However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is close.

Michelle ONeill hinted that a deal may be imminent with the DUP

Both parties publicly acknowledged on Friday that progress had been made.

On Saturday, Sinn Feins Stormont leader Michelle ONeill said talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an Executive is the Irish language.

The Taoiseach has cancelled a meeting with the Welsh First Minister, and will instead go to Belfast

Sinn Fein wants a stand-alone piece of legislation to protect speakers  an Irish Language Act  but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.

Finding a compromise resolution to the thorny language dispute that will satisfy both parties is key to breaking the Stormont deadlock.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood warned that any deal to restore powersharing must end the cycle of political stand-off between Sinn Fein and the DUP.

Mr Eastwood said it is not enough to simply form a new executive.

The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off, but very bad at the responsibility of government, he said.

That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end.

Mr Eastwood added that when powersharing is restored, focus must return immediately to the threat posed by Brexit, the economy and the crises in the health service and school budgets.Friends and family are searching for a Scottish man who went missing in Hamburg during a stag do.

Liam Colgan was last seen in the early hours of Saturday morning in the German city.

He had organised the trip for around 18 people ahead of his brothers wedding in March.

Liam Colgan has not been seen since the early hours of Saturday in Hamburg (Find Liam Colgan/PA)

The 29-year-old has not been seen since 1.30am on Saturday in the Hamborger Veermaster bar in the Reeperbahn area.

Police became involved in the search when he failed to show up for activities on the Saturday afternoon.

Alan Pearson, who was on the trip, told BBC Radio Scotland: It was towards the end of the night that Liam became separated from the group, but nobody realised at the time, given the nature of the event. It was hard to keep tabs on everyone.

Having retraced our steps and spoken to bar staff in the last bar he was seen in, we understand that he left a few minutes before the rest of the group.

He added: Hes not done anything like this before. You might often hear in appeals like this that the behaviour is completely out of character and that is absolutely the truth in this case.

When he didnt turn up for activities he had planned in the afternoon we knew something was amiss there so we pressed the police to assist and were eventually able to get an investigation started on Sunday morning.

Mr Colgans brother and father have remained in Hamburg along with a few others to continue the search, while friends at home have been helping by contacting hospitals in the city. The Foreign Office is also in contact with German police.

A Facebook page titled Help find Liam Colgan has been created with appeals in English and German.

It said: Liam, is the best man for his brother Eamonn Colgan and is responsible for organising the Stag Do to Hamburg, Germany.

Eamonn is due to marry his fiance Susan in three weeks time back in Scotland so we are launching an urgent appeal to find Liam.

Mr Colgan is around 6ft with a slim build and ginger hair. When last seen, he was wearing a brown leather jacket and a grey hoodie.

A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: We are in contact with the German police after a British man was reported missing in Hamburg, Germany.

We are providing advice and assistance to his family.Every effort needs to be made to ensure there is no hardening of the maritime border between Ireland and Wales post-Brexit, the Welsh First Minister has said.

Carwyn Jones said that any customs deal on the border that was made between the north and south in Ireland should also apply for Wales.

He said he did not agree with Prime Minister Theresa Mays handling of the Brexit talks and that it was not in the Irish or Welsh interest for there to be any extra bureaucracy that could hinder trade.

Carwyn Jones said any customs deal on the border that was made between the north and south in Ireland should also apply for Wales (PA)

Good to speak with @RTEnews this morning about #Brexit  and why #Wales & the UK needs to retain the closest possible relationship with Ireland & the rest of the EU  Mark Drakeford (@fmwales) February 12, 2018

The comments were made after a planned meeting between Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Mr Jones at Government Buildings in Dublin on Monday was cancelled.

The Welsh First Minister had been due to meet Mr Varadkar to discuss trade post-Brexit but it was cancelled to allow Mr Varadkar to travel to Stormont to take part in talks with Mrs May.

Mr Jones said he did not agree with the way Brexit has been handled by the UK Government.

I dont agree with Theresa May, Mr Jones said.

I think leaving the customs union has no sense at all, there are plenty of countries that are outside of the EU, but still in the customs union.

He added that Wales had always wanted full and unfettered access to the single market.

Its in no ones interest for there to be extra bureaucracy and extra paperwork when goods are moved through the Irish ports into Wales, he said.

Mr Jones told RTEs Morning Ireland programme that if the Welsh people were asked what type of Brexit they wanted, he believed they would want a sensible one, not one driven by dogma.

Unfortunately the UK Government has not played its hand at all well, he said.

It started off saying it wanted a pretty hard Brexit and it has shown that it cannot be flexible.

Well as far as were concerned what is needed is not a Brexit driven by some strange flag-wielding nationalism in Westminster, but a Brexit driven by whats good for business and jobs in Wales and indeed the other countries of Britain.

Mr Jones said Welsh ports were dependent on trade from Irish ports.

Our worry is that if, for example, the border between north and south here in Ireland is softer than the border, the maritime border between the Republic say and Wales, then there will be an incentive for freight to move into Belfast from Scottish and English ports, and avoid the Welsh ports, he said.

Everyone wants to see the border between the north and south of Ireland to be as soft as possible but we want to make sure that applies for the border between the Republic of Ireland and Wales as well.

Nobody wants to see there be any kind of physical manifestation of a border between north and south, nobody argues for that, but what I argue for is that if theres a seamless customs arrangement between north and south in Ireland theres no reason why that cant also apply in terms of goods that are moving across the sea into Wales.

Ports make a huge contribution to the Welsh economy, supporting around 11,000 jobs and providing an economic hub and trade gateway with Europe and the rest of the world.

About 80% of goods carried in Irish-registered HGVs between the Republic of Ireland and Europe pass through Welsh ports.Dutch foreign minister Halbe Zijlstra has admitted lying about attending a meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin as he prepares for his first visit to Russia as a member of the government.

Mr Zijlstra has issued a statement confirming the admission he made in an interview published in the respected Dutch daily De Volkskrant.

He has in the past said he was present as an employee of energy giant Shell at Mr Putins country retreat in 2006, when the Russian president said he considered Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic states as part of a Greater Russia.

The admission comes at an awkward moment for Halbe Zijlstra, as he prepares for his first visit to Russia as Dutch foreign minister (AP)

In a written statement, Mr Zijlstra said that he was not present at the meeting, but heard a story from somebody who was there. He said he considered Mr Putins statements so geopolitically important that he spoke about them publicly and took credit for hearing the comments as a way of protecting his source.

The manner in which I wanted to protect my source and underscore my message about Russia was not sensible, that is crystal clear, Mr Zijlstra said.

He is due to fly to Moscow for a meeting with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov.Aimee Fuller finished 17th in the womens snowboard slopestyle as the wind wreaked havoc at the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang on Monday.

Fuller, the only Briton in action on day three, feared for her safety in the delayed final, which featured all 26 competitors after qualification was cancelled on Sunday due to high winds.

United States Jamie Anderson performed best in the gusty conditions at Phoenix Snow Park, earning a mark of 83.00 from the judges, while Canadas Laurie Blouin took silver and Finlands Enni Rukajarvi bronze.

United States Jamie Anderson fared best in windy conditions to win the womens snowboard slopestyle (Mike Egerton/PA Images)

Fuller took evasive action on her first run and failed to land the final jump on her second after being caught by a gust, but she was not the only one as numerous competitors fell.

Results are in for womens #slopestyle @pyeongchang2018

@JamieAsnow 

@LaurieBlouin 

@ennirukajarvi 

Anderson first female snowboarder to repeat Olympic title, in fact 1st with 2 Gold pic.twitter.com/zMcdrKnzcY  fissnowboard (@fissnowboard) February 12, 2018

Fuller said: Conditions today were definitely a challenge. It was for sure not what I dreamed of for an Olympic final, but it is what it is and Im lucky to be in one piece right now.

Anderson played down the conditions, which Rukajarvi described as dangerous.

The conditions were not ideal but it changes so quick, Anderson said.

Rukajarvi added: It was pretty bad. It was really dangerous, you didnt know what kind of wind you were going to get for your run.

It was kind of about luck if you had good wind or not.

Laura Deas outshone Great Britain team-mate and reigning Olympic champion Lizzy Yarnold during womens skeleton training.

Deas was second and Yarnold, who won gold at the Sochi 2014 Games, third in the first official training run.

And in the second run Deas was fastest, with Yarnold fourth quickest, results which bode well for the four-run competition that begins on Friday and concludes on Saturday.

The womens giant slalom was postponed and will now take place at Yongpyong Alpine Centre on Thursday, the same day as the mens downhill which had to be rescheduled following high winds on Sunday.

Canada won the figure skating team event ahead of the United States and Olympic Athletes of Russia.

2018 PyeongChang Olympic Winter Games results: mens moguls



1. @MikaelKingsbury 

2. @MogulMattGraham 

3. Daichi Hara 



  FISfreestyle (@FISfreestyle) February 12, 2018

Canadas Mikael Kingsbury won the mens moguls and Martin Fourcade of France claimed gold in the mens 12.5km biathlon pursuit.

Hollands Irene Wust took victory in the womens 1500m long-track speed skating for her fifth Olympic gold.

Switzerland will meet Canada in the mixed doubles curling final after semi-final victories over the Olympic Athletes from Russia and Norway, respectively.Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom has condemned a despicable death threat message sent to her because of her views on Brexit.

The senior minister, who campaigned for the Leave side in the European Union referendum, said the person who sent the anonymous message to her Commons office was a coward.

The letter  similar to threats received by other Brexit supporters  claims you have taken lives on our side and warns now we will take lives on yours.

Andrea Leadsom is among MPs to have been targeted by death threats (Joe Giddens/PA)

Police are investigating messages sent to four MPs at the Commons.

Ms Leadsom said it was pretty despicable whoever sent me this adding: We live in a democracy  death threats because you dont agree? And unsigned? Coward.

Pretty despicable whoever sent me this. We live in a democracy- death threats because you dont agree? And unsigned? coward... pic.twitter.com/ERnRvvVxWo  Andrea Leadsom MP (@andrealeadsom) February 12, 2018

The letter, signed by the real 48% warns: If you attempt to take away part of someones identity, there are consequences.

We have watched as you have led us to the edge of the abyss. We will watch no longer.

You have taken lives on our side. Now we will take lives on yours.

We are coming for you.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: Police are aware of threatening letters sent to four Members of Parliament at the House of Commons.

Two of the letters were reported to police on Friday February 9, and two on Monday February 12.

The letters are being investigated by officers from the Parliamentary Liaison and Investigation Team within the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command.

There has been no arrest at this stage. Enquiries are ongoing.

A similar message was received by a constituent of Tory MP Zac Goldsmith earlier this month.Several people have died after a truck struck two cars on a busy German road, pushing the smaller vehicles under another trailer.

Mannheim police said the incident took place on the A5 Autobahn near the town of Walldorf in south-west Germany.

A police statement said the number of people killed has not been determined. A woman has been extracted from the wreckage with serious injuries.

The incident took place on the A5 near St Leon-Rot (AP)

A rescue helicopter and dozens of first responders are at the scene, officers said.

Three people were also hurt in a seven-car pile-up in the opposite lane, which police described as a rubbernecking accident.Lovelorn Britons lost 41 million to online romance fraudsters in 2017, new research has revealed.

A study by a new task force set up to tackle the issue found that each victim lost an average of 11,500 to their supposed love interest.

The most common modus operandi was for fraudsters to create a fake online profile on dating sites and enter into a relationship with the victim.

The police are warning people to watch out for romance fraudsters this Valentines Day (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

Having gained their trust, the fraudsters then ask for cash or coax the victim to hand over personal information.

A total of 3,557 romance frauds were reported in 2017, with women more likely than men to fall prey to the scam  making up 63% of the victims.

Police believe the true figure could be much higher as many romance frauds may go unreported due to embarrassment on the part of the victim  43% said it had a significant impact on their health or wellbeing.

A further 18% were at risk of bankruptcy or had received medical treatment as a result of romance fraud.

Older people were more vulnerable, with 25% of victims in their 50s, 22% in their 40s and only 13% under 30.

If you become a victim of dating fraud, report it immediately to @actionfrauduk and the dating site where you met, however embarrassing you might think it is. Don't worry, unfortunately they've heard it all before #safedating https://t.co/VQepFZpnpc pic.twitter.com/CoLBGoc6QJ  GetSafeOnline.org (@GetSafeOnline) February 9, 2018

The statistics were compiled by #DateSafe, a working group comprising of charities Get Safe Online, Age UK, Victim Support, as well as City of London Police, the Met and the Online Dating Association.

They advise those on an online quest for love this Valentines Day not to rush into a relationship as well as running their prospective dates name and any profile pics through a search engine with the words dating scam.

#DateSafe is also warning never to send money to or share bank details with someone youve met online, regardless of the reason they give or how long you have been talking to them.

Other tips include talking to your friends and family about your dates, meet in a public place and be wary of anyone who tells you not to tell others about them.

Tony Neate, chief executive of Get Safe Online, said: Lots of happy relationships are built as a result of meeting someone online.

However, as in any form of dating, there are some nasty characters out there who will try and take advantage of someone looking for love.

The City of London Polices Commander Dave Clark, the national coordinator for economic crime, said: Fraud can manifest itself in many different forms and is constantly evolving; it can have a major impact on victims, both financially and psychologically.

In the case of dating fraud, the emotional damage is often far more difficult to come to terms with.

These callous criminals will target vulnerable victims for their own monetary gain and our latest intelligence tells us that women in their forties are the most likely to be tricked in this way.

We are therefore urging people to spot the signs of dating fraud in order to protect themselves and to follow the Date Safe advice this Valentines Day and in the future.

He urged those who believed they may have fallen victim to a romance fraud to contact police.A businessman has failed in a bid to have his estranged wife jailed after complaining that she had a vendetta against him.

Mohamed Achour and Iman Achour, who are both from Lebanon but live in wealthy areas of London, are embroiled in a dispute over the care of their children.

Mr Achour, who lives in Marylebone, complained that Mrs Achour, who lives in Chelsea, was in contempt of court because she had breached an order made by a family court judge and an undertaking given in a family court.

A businessman has failed in a bid to have his estranged wife jailed at a High Court hearing in the Royal Courts of Justice in London (Anthony Devlin/PA)

He said she had harassed him and tried to undermine his efforts to gain British naturalisation.

But a High Court judge on Monday dismissed Mr Achours bid after Mrs Achour denied allegations made against her.

Mr Justice Keehan, who analysed the case at a public trial in the Family Division of the High Court in London, said evidence did not substantiate the allegations made against Mrs Achour.

He ordered Mr Achour to pay the 15,000 Mrs Achour had spent on lawyers defending the allegations.

There is to say the least a great deal of bitterness between them, said the judge.

They have both from time to time made criticisms of each other and allegations against each other.Police and Royal Navy teams will work through the night to transport the powerful 500kg Second World War bomb which has disrupted dozens of flights at London City Airport.

Bomb disposal experts will guide the 1.5m-long unexploded ordnance down the River Thames overnight using a flotation device, before attaching high-grade military explosives in a controlled explosion on Tuesday morning.

(PA graphic)

The German general purpose bomb was found grounded in the seabed 15 metres underwater at King George V Dock in east London on Sunday.

A 214-metre exclusion zone is in place and the airport will remain closed for the rest of the day, said Robert Sinclair, chief executive of London City Airport.

He said in a statement: Any passengers due to fly today are urged not to come to the airport and to contact their airline for further information.

A Royal Navy bomb disposal diver in King George V Dock close to London City Airport (Royal Navy/MoD/Crown copyright/PA)

I recognise this has caused inconvenience for our passengers, and in particular some of our local residents. The airport is co-operating fully with the Met Police, Royal Navy and London Borough of Newham to safely remove the device and resolve the situation as quickly as possible.

The airport is expected to reopen on Tuesday, he added.

Lieutenant Commander Jonny Campbell, officer in charge of the diving unit which is disposing of the ordnance, said the bomb is being transported overnight to minimise disruption.

It will be exploded underwater and is unlikely to detonate before it is neutralised by his team.

He told the Press Association: Theres a long night ahead for quite a few people, not least my Royal Navy bomb disposal divers, using our tried-and-tested techniques to remove the threat.

He added: We assess that weve got good control, that the bomb is in relatively good condition and so its now that balance of yes, we want to take it away and remove it, but we want to make sure its done properly.

UPDATED STATEMENT from Robert Sinclair, CEO of London City Airport: The airport will remain closed for the rest of the day, following the discovery of a World War Two ordnance in King George V Dock on Sunday. An exclusion zone is in place in the immediate area. (1/6)  London City Airport (@LondonCityAir) February 12, 2018

A local couple who only gave their names as the Kullers said they were woken up at 2am by officers banging on our door asking them to evacuate.

The corner shop owners told the Press Association: Theyre just doing their job, arent they, theyve got to think about our safety and decide what theyre going to do. Weve just got to carry on as best as we can.

All evacuations were optional, police said.

The German Luftwaffe dropped around 25,000 tonnes of bombs on east Londons Royal Docks during the Blitz, according to the Royal Docks Management Authority.Brooklyn Beckham has paid tribute to his mother Victoria with a new tattoo.

The 18-year-old has had a rose-covered heart inked on his upper arm.

The heart is emblazoned with the word Mum.

Brooklyn Beckham (Ian West/PA)

Brooklyn posted a picture of his new inking on Instagram, thanking the artist who created it.

Cheers to this man x another amazing one, he said.

Brooklyn has other etchings on his body.

They include a camera, presumably a nod to his interest in photography, and the image of a Native American which is tattooed onto the teenagers right forearm.

The tattoo is similar to one his father David has on his left arm.Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed Tottenhams Toby Alderweireld will not face Juventus on Tuesday as he believes the defender is not yet fit enough for a crunch Champions League tie.

Pochettino told Alderweireld he would miss the match in Turin during a conversation that lasted longer than two hours.

He told a press conference on Monday that to go up against a team like Juventus, every player needed to be at 200 per cent fitness.

Toby Alderweireld is being nursed back to full fitness (Martin Rickett/PA)

Alderweireld played 90 minutes against Newport in the FA Cup last week, having returned from a 14-week absence due to a hamstring tear.

The Belgian declared after the match he felt very good but was not included in the squad against Arsenal on Saturday and did not join Mondays travelling party to Italy either.

He is 28 and it was a massive injury that we need to take care and be cautious with because we cannot put his career at risk, Pochettino said.

To play this type of game you need to be 200 per cent. Competing is not the same as training and thats why we are caring about him with our plan.

Tottenham are still to persuade Alderweireld to extend his current contract, which expires in the summer of 2019, but Pochettino says this latest absence is down to nothing other than physical factors.

Happy to be back ! Great victory for our fans and a clean sheet. Keep up the good work. #THFC #COYS pic.twitter.com/tBCH8sET72  Toby Alderweireld (@AlderweireldTob) February 7, 2018

We have a nice conversation after the Liverpool game. We explained during two hours  first it was a conversation with (assistant manager) Jesus (Perez) and for nearly two hours with Jesus and myself, Pochettino said.

We understand the player last season was working hard to try to play in the Champions League and it is normal, it is exciting to have the possibility to play.

The player always feels they are fit to play but it is our responsibility together  the medical and fitness area  to take the best decision.

For us it is easy to put the player to play and then if something wrong happens, the responsibility is with us. Then the player is put at risk.

Tottenham face a gargantuan task at the Allianz Stadium, against a side that have conceded only one goal in their last 16 matches.

Juventus have also reached the Champions League final twice in the last three seasons while Spurs are into the knock-out stages for only the second time in their history, and first since 2011.

I think Juventus is a massive club. We cannot compare with Juventus, in their history they won everything, Pochettino said.

Of course our dream is to reach the level of Juventus. Were going to be competitive and well see if we can compete tomorrow.

Alderweireld is Tottenhams only major absentee, meaning Pochettino could stick with the same team that beat Arsenal. Victor Wanyama could come in to add more resilience to the midfield.

Juventus have several key players out. Paulo Dybala is missing with a hamstring strain while Andrea Barzagli has joined Blaise Matuidi, Benedikt Howedes and Juan Cuadrado on the sidelines.Weather conditions will determine when rescuers resume their search for a hillwalker who has been missing since Thursday

Police and rescuers say an accumulation of snow has forced search teams to call off their search for Neil Gibson, 63 after his brother Alan, 56, was found on Saturday.

The pair failed to return from a walk in Strathcarron, Wester Ross, on Thursday.

Alan Gibsons body was found by mountain rescue teams in the Achnashellach area.

But efforts to find his brother ended at around 4pm on Sunday over safety concerns and horrendous conditions.

The body of Alan Gibson, 56, was recovered on Saturday (Police Scotland/PA)

Torridon Mountain Rescue Team leader Arjan Hendriks said: Weve been out for a full three days.

Todays conditions were absolutely horrendous. It was fairly nice in the morning, then at 11am it turned to sleet and strong winds, so visibility was zero.

We deemed it unsafe.

Police Scotland confirmed rescue operation will not continue until Tuesday after an accumulation of snow hampered efforts to find the missing brother.

A spokeswoman for Police Scotland said: The search was called off because of the accumulation of snow.

They will obviously be looking at it again tomorrow.

There is no timescale at the moment, it will be dependent on the weather conditions.

Forecasters at the Met Office predicted heavy hail and snow showers for the north-west Highlands on Monday, with a high likelihood of gales, blizzards, poor visibility and a severe chill effect across the mountains.

The Scottish Avalanche Information Service has warned of a considerable risk of snow slips in the area.

Dundonnell Mountain Rescue Team, a Coastguard rescue helicopter and the Search and Rescue Dog Association have also been involved in searching the area.

The brothers were reported missing when they failed to return from the walk on Thursday after setting out at 7.45am that morning.

Neil Gibson, 63, has been missing since Thursday (Police Scotland/PA)

The pair, who had a black Pointer dog called Archie with them, had been planning to walk in the Achnashellach area.

Anyone with information is asked to call police quoting, reference 4089 of February 8.Sam Simmonds is a major doubt for Englands NatWest 6 Nations clash with Scotland after being omitted from a squad selected for this weeks training camp in London.

Simmonds was replaced at half-time of Saturdays 12-6 victory over Wales at Twickenham because of a shoulder injury and has returned to his club Exeter for treatment.

The number eight has been omitted from the 32 players picked by Eddie Jones and Press Association Sport understands he is likely to miss the trip to Murrayfield on Saturday week.

Sam Simmonds is treated by staff during the NatWest 6 Nations match against Wales (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Eddie Jones names 32-man squad for London training camp 



See who's in  https://t.co/kSjShemGvN pic.twitter.com/cfhLmOwgJo  England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) February 12, 2018

He was a star performer in the round one rout of Italy in Rome, running in two tries to sound his arrival as a genuine option for England at number eight.

His absence would be mitigated by the possible availability of Nathan Hughes, however, after the Wasp made a successful comeback from a knee injury on Sunday.

Further cover in the position is provided by Sales Cardiff-born England Under-20 star Sam Moore, who is present as an apprentice player and had previously been on Wales radar.

Joe Marlers availability following completion of his six-week suspension for dangerous clearing out of a ruck means rookie prop Alec Hepburn has been sent back to Exeter.

HIGHLIGHTS | England 12 Wales 6



A victory built on "courage and belief," said Eddie Jones



Enjoy the best of the action from Twickenham via @ITVRugby #CarryThemHome pic.twitter.com/fkrBay18qM  England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) February 11, 2018

Second row George Kruis has been dropped following Charlie Ewels recovery from a hamstring injury and James Haskell is also available to face Scotland after serving a four-week ban for a dangerous tackle.

Harlequins wing Gabriel Ibitoye makes his first appearance in a senior England squad following his inclusion as an apprentice player.

Ibitoye scored a stunning try for the under-20s against Wales last Friday and has been rewarded with a place in the training squad.

Englands pack will scrummage against Georgia on Tuesday and Wednesday after it was arranged for the Eastern Europeans to fly over for the training sessions in the Six Nations first fallow week.

England training squad:

Backs

Back three: M Brown (Harlequins), G Ibitoye (Harlequins) *, H Mallinder (Northampton Saints), J May (Leicester Tigers), J Nowell (Exeter Chiefs), D Solomona (Sale Sharks), A Watson (Bath Rugby)



Inside backs: D Care (Harlequins), O Farrell (Saracens), G Ford (Leicester Tigers), J Joseph (Bath Rugby), M Smith (Harlequins) *, B Teo (Worcester Warriors), R Wigglesworth (Saracens).

Forwards

Back five: C Ewels (Bath Rugby), J Haskell (Wasps), N Hughes (Wasps), N Isiekwe (Saracens), M Itoje (Saracens), C Lawes (Northampton Saints), J Launchbury (Wasps), Z Mercer (Bath Rugby), S Moore (Sale Sharks) *, C Robshaw (Harlequins), S Underhill (Bath Rugby).

Front row: D Cole (Leicester Tigers), L Cowan-Dickie (Exeter Chiefs), J George (Saracens), D Hartley (Northampton Saints), J Marler (Harlequins), M Vunipola (Saracens), H Williams (Exeter Chiefs)

* denote apprentice playersIrelands deputy premier has played down a lack of face-to-face meeting between the Taoiseach and the DUP during Mondays crunch talks at Stormont.

Arlene Fosters party failed to meet with Leo Varadkar when he travelled to the region amid hopes of a breakthrough in the political stalemate between the DUP and Sinn Fein.

He and Tanaiste Simon Coveney held meetings with all of the other main political parties throughout the afternoon.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (left) and Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney speaking outside Stormont House in Belfast, following a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Theresa May, after holding crunch talks at Stormont with the regions political leaders in a bid to encourage Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionists (DUP) to resolve their differences, amid growing speculation that a deal to restore powersharing is edging closer.

Meeting with @Number10gov Theresa May and her officials in Belfast, constructive talks on restoring power sharing and Brexit. Next up: meeting leaders of the Northern Irish parties pic.twitter.com/RvHcIpjh3Q  Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) February 12, 2018

Mr Varadkar said although there had been no meeting with the DUP he believed progress had been made between the unionist party and Sinn Fein.

We didnt meet with the DUP on this occasion. I think you have heard what they had to say today I think the soundings from Arlene Foster and Mary Lou McDonald were positive, said Mr Varadkar.

Relations between the DUP and the Irish Government have become increasingly strained in recent months over Brexit.

However Mr Coveney insisted that the lack of a meeting was simply due to DUP scheduling.

The DUP had meetings internally this morning right up until lunchtime so I wouldnt read too much into that, he said.

The DUP held a meeting with UK Prime Minister Theresa May.

A DUP spokeswoman indicated the reason for the lack of meeting was not down to diary commitments, rather that Mondays talks were focused on issues internal to Northern Ireland.

Today was focused on internal matters relating to Northern Ireland, she said.

We will meet with the Irish Government on matters of mutual concern in due course.Donald Trump Jrs wife was taken to a New York City hospital as a precaution on Monday after she opened an envelope addressed to her husband that contained an unidentified white powder, police said.

A preliminary test indicated the substance was not dangerous.

Vanessa Trump, 40, opened the letter addressed to the presidents son on Monday morning at their midtown Manhattan apartment. She called 911 and said she was coughing and felt nauseous, police said.

Vanessa Trump said she felt unwell (Win McNamee/AP)

The Trump Organisation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Detectives from the New York Police Departments intelligence division and Secret Service agents are investigating.

The Secret Service and our law enforcement partners in New York City are investigating a suspicious package addressed to one of our protectees received today in New York, New York. This is an active investigation and we cannot comment any further, Secret Service Special Agent Jeffrey Adams said.

Vanessa Trump, a former model, and Donald Trump Jr have five children, none of whom were home at the time of the incident.

In March 2016, police detectives and FBI agents investigated a threatening letter sent to the Manhattan apartment of Donald Trump Jrs brother, Eric, that also contained a white powder that turned out to be harmless.

Envelopes containing white powder were also sent to Trump Tower, which served as Mr Trumps campaign headquarters, twice in 2016.

Hoax attacks using white powder play on fears that date to 2001, when letters containing deadly anthrax were mailed to news organisations and the offices of two US senators. Those letters killed five people.Everyone should respect the law banning female genital mutilation (FGM) and support the global campaign calling for an end to the practice, three Muslim groups have said.

The Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council (IMPIC), the Al-Mustafa Islamic Centre Ireland and the Ifrah Foundation said FGM was a violation of human rights.

The groups joined in the criticism of remarks by an Irish Muslim cleric advocating female circumcision.

Dr Ali Selim of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland told RTE last week that female circumcision should be carried out if a doctor advised it needed to be done.

We see female circumcision in the same way we see male circumcision, Dr Selim said.

It might be needed for one person and not another, and it has to be done by a doctor and practised in a safe environment, he said.

Dr Selims comments came as Ifrah Ahmed, a survivor of the practice, launched #MeTooFGM, a worldwide social media campaign against FGM.

The 29-year-old, who was born in Somalia, said FGM is happening outside of developing countries, including reports of it occurring in the UK.

Politicians and activists including Sabina Higgins, wife of President Michael D Higgins, join Ifrah Ahmed (centre) as she launches #MeTooFGM, a worldwide social media campaign against female genital mutilation (Niall Carson/PA)

Ifrah Foundation founder Ms Ahmed, Ifrah Foundation board member Dr Chris Fitzpatrick and IMPIC chairman Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri met in Dublin on Monday to voice their opposition.

There is no medical, religious or cultural justifications for FGM, they said.

Muslim leaders and scholars categorically reject that the practice offers any benefits and considers it in direct contradiction to the basic tenets of Islam.

FGM is associated with serious medical complications in young girls and women. It is also associated with complications relating to childbirth and is responsible for the deaths of mothers and babies in counties where it is practised.

The groups added: [We] call on all Irish Muslims to respect the law in relation to FGM in Ireland and supports the global campaign to end FGM.

IMPIC and the Al-Mustafa Islamic Centre in Ireland are backing Ms Ahmeds global campaign.

Health Minister Simon Harris and Trinity College Dublin, where Dr Selim is a part-time language teacher were among those who have been critical of Dr Selim.

On Sunday Mr Harris tweeted: Female genital mutilation is never ever justifiable, has no place in healthcare, is illegal, dangerous, can have a devastating impact & is a violation of human rights.

Female genital mutilation is never ever justifiable, has no place in healthcare, is illegal, dangerous, can have a devastating impact & is violation of human rights. I welcome resolute comments of our medical community. I join them in condemnation of offensive & worrying remarks  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) February 11, 2018

A spokesman for Trinity College Dublin said university teachers and students believed the practice was always wrong.

FGM comprises all procedures involving altering or injuring female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is recognised internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.

It is estimated that at least 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone some form of FGM, according to the UN.

Girls aged 14 and younger represent 44 million of those who have been cut, most commonly in Gambia, Mauritania and Indonesia.

The procedure is mostly carried out on young girls between infancy and age 15, the UN protest organisers said.

It causes severe bleeding and health issues including cysts, infections, infertility and complications in childbirth.

The #MeToo movement began after claims of serious sexual misconduct surfaced in Hollywood allegedly involving producer Harvey Weinstein, which he denies.Hundreds of workers at BiFab marine engineering yards are to be made redundant, union leaders have said.

Management at the yards told trade unions on Monday they will be issuing redundancy notices to the core workforce on Tuesday, giving 45 days notice of the closure of the yards.

Unions say 260 jobs at yards in Fife and Arnish on Lewis are to go by early summer, with the possible total closure of the yards by the end of June.

BiFab workers in Methil, Fife (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Bob McGregor, regional officer at Unite, said: So much has been done to save these yards until now.

The workers there have fought for their future and it is difficult to believe that it can now be snatched away from them.

The closures of these yards will turn these areas into an industrial graveyard. The prospect fills us with dismay.

In November, the yards were threatened with closure over a dispute with a major sub-subcontractor on the Beatrice Wind farm contract for the Cromarty Firth.

BiFab workers occupied the yards and called for Scottish Government intervention to save them.

Industry minister Keith Brown and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon brokered a deal involving all the major contractors to save the yards.

However, the Beatrice Wind farm contract is now coming to a close.

Claire Baker, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, hosted a cross-party meeting on Wednesday at the Scottish Parliament to discuss the yards.

She said in a tweet: After a Parliamentary show of support last week for BiFab workers this must be challenged  these jobs are vital for Fife economy and our future industry base.

After a Parliamentary show of support last week for BiFab workers this must be challenged - these jobs are vital for Fife economy and our future industry base pic.twitter.com/34QggbeqqG  Claire Baker (@clairebakermsp) February 12, 2018

Mr McGregor of Unite said: We cant say this is a total shock because work at the yard has been running down for weeks now.

However all the interested parties, the company, the contractors, the unions and the Scottish Government, given what has been done so far, must surely look to have an 11th-hour intervention which can do something to save these jobs.

No-one from BiFab was available for comment.

Economy Secretary Keith Brown said: This will be hugely concerning for the workers affected and their families.

Scottish ministers have offered support to BiFab to allow work to continue on the contracts for the Beatrice offshore wind farm development through a loan facility and have been fully focused and working intensively to secure a long-term future for the company.

Ministers recognise that more work remains to be done to secure the long-term future of the company and are fully committed to offering support where possible to attract long-term investment in this vital sector of the Scottish supply chain and economy.Residents who were evacuated following the discovery of an unexploded Second World War bomb near London City Airport can return to their homes, police said.

People living within the 214-metre exclusion zone in the London Borough of Newham were asked to voluntarily leave their property on Monday while bomb disposal teams handled the 500kg ordnance.

The @metpoliceuk have said the initial 214-metre cordon that was put in place early on Monday morning is now lifted. Residents from Holt Road, Leonard Street, Lord Street, Newland Street, Tate Road, Muir Street and Kennard Street can now return to their homes. https://t.co/WdJL2jEHdT  Newham London  (@NewhamLondon) February 12, 2018

Metropolitan Police said the 1.5 metre-long tapered-end shell, which was found 15 metres underwater in King George V Dock in east London on Sunday, has been moved.

It has been taken to a secondary position within the dock, the force said.

(PA graphic)

Royal Navy divers will work with police through the night to move the German general-purpose bomb down the River Thames and carry out a controlled explosion on Tuesday morning.

The process will disrupt some late-night train services from St Pancras station.

The last two Southeastern trains will be delayed as police have asked for the tunnel under the Thames to be closed.

The 23:55 to Faversham and the 00:12 to Ashford International are affected, the operator said, and apologised for inconvenience caused.

INFO - The unexploded World War II bomb found near London City Airport will be transported down the river this evening. As a result, the last two trains from St Pancras will be delayed as the tunnel under the Thames will be closed at police request: https://t.co/jjmS2Zgsvd  Southeastern (@Se_Railway) February 12, 2018

The operation caused travel disruption at London City Airport, which closed on Monday with more than 100 flights cancelled.

It is expected to reopen on Tuesday, said CEO Robert Sinclair.Outside the boundaries of the Diyasaru Park, traffic is locked bumper-to-bumper but inside is a wetland paradise. A long walking path winds its way through 60 acres of carefully restored wetlands, complete with narrow streams covered in pink lotus flowers in bloom.



Wildlife has reclaimed this space and Diyasaru is home to some 80 species of birds, 25 species of butterflies and a host of other animals including otters, shy fishing cats and two estuarine crocodiles, who are sometimes spotted feasting on fish. The purple-faced leaf monkey and a long-tailed languor, endemic to Sri Lanka, can be seen swinging through the trees.



Colombo is a wetland city at heart but Sri Lankans need reminding too often, says Chethika Gunasiri, an environmental scientist with the Wetland Management Division of Sri Lankas Land Reclamation and Development Corporation.



People talk about how important it is to protect places like Wilpattu and Yala but they dont think about the wetlands in our own backyard, she says.

Wetlands for a sustainable urban future, the theme for World Wetlands Day 2018, is designed to highlight the role urban wetlands play in making cities liveable. For Chethika, it is also a call to action. She says Colombo needs to preserve its wetlands, while it still has them.



Wetlands save Colombo millions through a range of ecosystem services



The Colombo Wetland Complex (CWC), which includes 20 square kilometres of freshwater marshes, lakes and paddy fields in the city, stretches around the Diyawanna lake, like an emerald necklace, extending to areas such as Beddagana, Thalawatugoda, Kotte, Kolonnawa and up to Talangama and Ambatale. The wetlands are essential allies in protecting Colombos inhabitants from floods.



It has been estimated that if the city was to lose all its wetlands, the Colombo metropolitan region would be at a risk of losing one percent of its gross domestic product on average each year due to flood damage  similar to damages suffered in the massive floods of November 2010.

The CWC provides refuge for 39 percent of the storm water storing and then slowly releasing the excess water over a long period of time. In doing so, the wetlands help maintain soil moisture balance. There are also a host of other ecosystem services, says Chethika.



More than 50 percent of the city falls within the catchment of the CWC, allowing Colombo to enjoy a kind of natural air conditioning. Colombos wetlands act as a buffer by trapping and removal of particulate matter in the air. This has direct health benefits for the citys inhabitants  the wetlands reduce the incidence of cardiopulmonary and respiratory diseases, coughing, bronchitis and lung cancer.



They combat pollution in the water as well. Research conducted while preparing the Colombo Wetland Management Strategy (WMS) revealed that 65 percent of the canal network in Colombo carries water of poor quality but that the water tends to be cleanest around the parliament lake area, thanks to the wetlands, which act as filters. Areas like Wellawatte, where the wetlands have been filled up, have noticeably poorer water quality. Even more important is how the wetlands feed and provide for the communities that surround them. The WMS highlighted how locals relied on water from wetlands to cultivate vegetables, edible herbs, yams and other crops when water levels are low or during the off-paddy seasons. The wetlands supported subsistence fishing and offered spaces for cattle to forage.



Conservationists say over 87 percent of all the wetland areas actually provide food and additional household income for Colombos urban poor. An estimated 60 percent of such local households directly benefit from livelihoods and products derived from the wetlands.



Why recreate, when you can protect?



Wetlands currently cover about 20 square kilometres of the Colombo metropolitan area but they have been degraded and lost at a rate of 1.2 percent (58 acres) per year. In some parts of the city, up to 60 percent of wetland extent has been lost since the 1980s. Programmes such as the Metro Colombo Urban Development Project (MCUDP) supported by the World Bank are rushing to stem the tide, creating spaces such as Diyasaru, where the wetlands can be protected.



This is a conservation effort with tangible rewards. Today, tourists seldom linger in the crowded capital. Restoring and opening up the wetlands may give them a reason to stay. In fact, it is estimated that the wetlands could generate about Rs.2 billion annually for the city if their recreation potential was tapped.



Sri Lanka needs only look to other cities to realise it makes complete sense to preserve its wetlands. Take the London Wetland Centre  it costs the British government an estimated 30 million pounds to convert four concrete water reservoirs in a 42-hectare wetland ecological habitat.

In Hong Kong, the government created a 64-hectare wetland in the middle of the city to recreate nature and natures services.

These have become major attractions in these cities. Colombo doesnt have to spend millions doing the same  all it needs to do is protect the bounty it already has.



Wetlands for a sustainable Colombo



People think of wetlands as a barrier to development or as a kind of wasted business opportunity, where every perch of land should be filled up, say Chethika, explaining that working at Land Reclamation and Development Corporation means that she is very pro-development but understands that if it is not sustainable, Colombo could become unliveable.



We dont want to stop development. When it comes to wetlands, we cannot put up a fence around them. We have to integrate them into peoples lives so they can support livelihoods and also incorporate them into tourism.



Colombo has been presented with a unique branding opportunity, she emphasizes.



This is our uniqueness. We dont want to become another shopping destination; we cant be Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. We have to use what we have and our wetlands can help us build a unique, sustainable city.A fire broke out at the Iranian Ambassadors residence at the Bauddhaloka Mawatha in Colombo 7 a short while ago.

The Fire Service Department of the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) said they were able to douse the fire.

Two fire trucks with ten fire fighters were deployed by the Fire Service Department. No casualties were reported in the fire. (Thilanka Kanakarathna)Felix Tataru - World President and Chairman of IAA with Murtaza A. Tajbhoy  Chief Strategy Officer, Leo Burnett Sri Lanka

Murtaza A. Tajbhoy, Chief Strategy Officer of Leo Burnett Sri Lanka was awarded the IAA Champion Award. He is the first Sri Lankan to win this prestigious accolade. The International Advertising Association (IAA) selected Murtaza as one of five global leaders in the marketing communications industry to receive this honour.

Murtaza received the IAA Champion Award recently at IAA's 2017 Global Conference held in Bucharest, Romania where more than 600 delegates from the international advertising and marketing communications industries were gathered to celebrate the future of the industry and to celebrate individuals who have made a difference to the industry. The IAA Champion Award, introduced last year as part of IAAs 2017 Inspire Awards, honours notable leaders for their lifetime achievements, vision and their contribution to the global marketing communications industry.

I am incredibly proud that Murtaza was honoured by the International Advertising Association with its first-ever Champion Award, says Arosha Perera  Chief Executive Officer, Leo Burnett Sri Lanka. Murtaza has transformed the strategic approach to marketing communications in our industry and is a torch bearer not only for us at Leo Burnett, but also for the local advertising industry. His insights, initiatives and perspective have blazed a new trail for the Sri Lankan advertising industry. His insights into people and their behaviour and his desire to understand social norms and cultural fuel has helped us transform brands under his stewardship.

Murtaza joins luminaries from the global advertising industry as one of only five recipients of the first IAA Champion award  his fellow champions include Brendan Ripp - Executive Vice President of the Fox Networks Group and Akira Kagani of Japans Drill Inc.

In a statement to congratulate all IAA Inspire Award winners, Felix Tataru - World President and Chairman of IAA said The IAA Inspire Awards have been initiated to pay tribute to our members for their many achievements and contributions of Leadership, Vision, Commitment and Service to make a difference in the worldwide arena of marketing communications. They have contributed their professional expertise and inspired the marketing communications community locally, regionally and globally."

I am honoured to receive the IAA Champion Award, says MurtazaA. Tajbhoy  Chief Strategy Officer, Leo Burnett Sri Lanka. Insight driven, analytical thinking is changing the marketing communications landscape around the world. To be recognized for the value I have added to this industry is a very satisfying reward. This recognition is a reward for my team and I would like to share this honour with my mentors and the diverse people who have guided and inspired me. This IAA Champion award is not an accolade for me, its a reward for Sri Lankas marketing communications industry.

Murtaza joined Leo Burnett in 2000, rising from a Junior Brand Executive to Chief Strategy Officer spearheading the companys belief that creativity can transform human behaviour. In 2010, he was also named a Star Reacher by Leo Burnett Worldwide and was invited to the companys headquarters in Chicago.

Murtaza led some dynamic initiatives at Leo Burnett, including the first-ever National Celebrity Study to uncover the real power of celebrities in advertising and a ground-breaking research into the middle income sector of Sri Lanka, providing vital insights into the evolving mind-setof this segment andtheir lifestyle. He regularly shares these insights and learnings with the wider industry, through his time as a mentor and guest lecturer at the University of Moratuwas Design Faculty and through training programme organised by the industry.

In addition to winning multiple awards locally and internationally, Murtaza has also served on many regional and global juries, shaping and formulating new standards of excellence for the industry. He was the first Sri Lankan to be invited to join the AMES Asia Pacific jury in 2015, and the Spikes Effectiveness Award in 2016.

These achievements and more have contributed to his journey towards the IAA INSPIRE AWARDS where he received the 2017 IAA INSPIRE CHAMPION AWARDinrecognition for his excellence in leadership, vision and distinguished services contributed to the International Advertising Association and to the advancement of marketing communications worldwide. He is currently working on understanding the VIP, a hitherto difficult segment to research within Sri Lanka. Despite his hectic schedule, he traverses the country with the planning team to observe, research and engage with people. Murtazas efforts have enabled Leo Burnett to be a key strategic partner to its clients.Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe obtained the consent of President Maithripala Sirisena to form a UNP government in place of the current unity government between the United National Party (UNP) and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), a source close to the UNP said today.

The Prime Minister met the President in the wake of the February 10 local council elections which saw the defeat of both the UNP and the SLFP.

Sources close to the Prime Minister told Daily Mirror that the President had informed Prime Minister Wickremesinghe to form a government if he could muster a majority in the House.

The President had also informed the Prime Minister that he would request the MPs who want to remain in the SLFP to join the UNP if it could muster a majority.

Sources said the UNP would reveal the details of its majority by Thursday, February 15.

It was also reported that the other parties in the United National Front (UNF) had also agreed to form a UNP-led government.

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), which is the main opposition in Parliament is also said to be prepared to support the government but would not accept any ministerial portfolios. (Yohan Perera)Seeks order to restrain Director General of Merchant Shipping from entertaining Network Express application



By S.S.Selvanayagam

Court of Appeal last week issued notices on Ocean Network Express (O.N.E) and alleged partners on trade monopolisation and others returnable for March 19.



The bench comprised Justices P.Padman Surasena (President/CA) and Shiran Gooneratne.



Parliamentarian Vasudeva Nanayakkara, the whistle-blower in this case, filed Writ petition citing Director General of Merchant Shipping, Ports & Shipping Minister, Finance & Mass Media Minister, Hayleys Advants Ltd., McLarens Investments (Pvt) Ltd., Ocean Network Express (O.N.E) Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., and UMI Shipping (Pvt) Ltd., as respondents.



Faisz Musthapha PC with Faiza Markar, Akeel Deen and Rajika Aluvihare instructed by B.S.U.Fernando appeared for the petitioner.



Petitioner in his public interest litigation alleges that Hayleys Advants and/or McLarens are allegedly monopolising and/or carrying out restrictive practices in the Sri Lankan shipping industry.



He states that the Hayleys Advants Ltd. has acquired 94.81percent equity of Sri Lanka Shipping Company Ltd for a purchase of about Rs.4.9 billion.



He impugns the acquisition is in line with the Hayleys PLC groups strategy of expanding its maritime operations and paving way for the establishment of the largest marine and shipping company in Sri Lanka.



He says Hayleys Advants Ltd. is said to control 70 percent of Sri Lankas hipping and maritime services market and laments it is seeking to acquire more acquisitions in the shipping sector with a view to increase its market share in the future.



He states all those principals operate in Sri Lanka through companies incorporated to carry out their operations in collaboration with their respective agents.



He alleges that Hayleys Advants Ltd. and McLarens Investments (Pvt) Ltd. are monopolising and/or combining and/or conspiring with others to monopolise the shipping industry of Sri Lanka and the restrictive practices are openly and deliberately being carried out in relation to such industry.

Restrictive practices and monopolisation causes inefficient allocation, social and economic disparity, provision of inferior services, elimination of competition, dominant entities, prevention of new entrants and considerable political influence to scuttle political and regulatory process, he elaborates.

The government, having recognized the fact, declared to the public that it will implement reforms to open up the shipping industry to competition, he states.



The Finance Ministry has ensured that competition within the industry will be fair and balanced, with unfair trading practices being eliminated through enactment of prudent regulation, he points out.



He states that Ocean Network Express (O.N.E) Lanka (Pvt) Ltd has been incorporated on 30.11.2017 as a private company and the objective of the incorporation has been to carry on Sri Lanka business of marketing, promotion and agency activities pertaining to the liner shipping business of O.N.E which, is a major new global container shipping company, emerges a joint venture between three Japanese companies. The regulations under the Licensing of Shipping Agents Act require not less than 60 percent of the issued shares be held by Sri Lankan Citizen to eligible for a license to carry on business as a shipping agent, he underlines.



As such 60 percent of the shares of Network Express (O.N.E) Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. are held by UMI Shipping (Pvt) Ltd and accordingly the UMI Shipping (Pvt) Ltd. is the majority shareholder of the Network Express (O.N.E) Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. whereas UMI Shipping (Pvt) Ltd. the entirety of the shares held by just Hayleys Advants Ltd. and McLarens Investments (Pvt) Ltd., he elucidates.



He spells out it is evident that Hayleys Advantis Ltd. and McLarens Investments (Pvt) Ltd. are continuing to monopolise the shipping industry of Sri Lanka through UMI Shipping (Pvt) Ltd and thereby Network Express (O.N.E) Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. He reiterates in spite the governments intention to introduce reforms to open up the shipping industry to competition, the most dominant shipping companies are continuing through various means to monopolise the industry and engage in restrictive practices.



He claims he received credible information that the Network Express (O.N.E) Lanka (Pvt) Ltd has made an application to the Director General of Merchant Shipping for a license to carry on business in Sri Lanka as a shipping agent. He says he has called upon the Director General of Merchant Shipping to refrain from issuing a shipping license to any newly incorporated shipping company until the governments regulations against the monopolisation and restrictive practices affecting shipping industry are declared and until the final determination of similar Writ petition pending in the Court of Appeal.



He is seeking an order from the court to restrain the Director General of Merchant Shipping from entertaining the application of Network Express (O.N.E) and an interim order as well.Company has menus from over 15,000 restaurants across more then 150 cities in India available on its app and website.

New Delhi: Online food ordering and delivery platform Foodpanda India on Monday said it plans to invest Rs 400 crore to scale up technology to ensure seamless experience across the country.

The company also said that it plans to hire 25,000 delivery riders in the next 12 to 15 months. The investment will focus on scaling up technology, ensuring seamless experience for partner restaurants, users and riders across all the metros and other key cities in the country, Foodpanda said in a statement.

Foodpanda India CEO Pranay Jivrajka said: "Creating a strong delivery ecosystem backed by technology is one of the most fundamental needs of the Indian food tech industry."

The focus of investment is in line with company's go to market strategy to make a difference in the food ordering experience of its restaurant partners, customers and riders, he added.

Owing to increasing urbanisation, growth in the internet population, higher disposable incomes and rising preference for online food ordering, the company is gearing itself to significantly grow the percentage of orders that are fulfilled by the depth and expanse of its delivery services, Foodpanda said.

The company has menus from over 15,000 restaurants across more then 150 cities in India available on its app and website.

In December 2017, Cab hailing app Ola had acquired Foodpanda with a commitment of infusion of funds to the tune of Rs 1,300 crore from parent ANI Technologies Pvt Ltd.As on date, 59 sophisticated Currency Verification and Processing machines are in operation in RBI for purpose.

New Delhi: The RBI has said that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, returned to banks when the government demonetised high value currency 15 months ago, are still being "processed for their arithmetical accuracy and genuineness".

This is being done in an "expedited manner", the central bank said.

"Specific bank notes are being processed for their arithmetical accuracy and genuineness and the reconciliation for the same is ongoing. This information can, therefore, be shared on completion of the process and reconciliation," the RBI said in reply to an RTI application filed by a PTI correspondent.

To a query on the number of demonetised notes, it said, "...subject to future corrections if any, arising in the course of verification process, the estimated value of specified bank notes received as on June 30, 2017 is Rs 15.28 trillion (lakh crore)".

Asked to provide the details of the deadline for finishing the counting of demonetised notes, the RBI said "specified bank notes are being processed in an expedited manner".

As on date, 59 sophisticated Currency Verification and Processing (CVPS) machines are in operation in RBI for the purpose, it said.

The reply did not specify the location of the machines.

"Besides, eight CVPS machines available with commercial banks are also being used. In addition to this, seven more CVPS machines on lease basis have been installed at RBI regional offices," the RTI reply said.

The government had on November 8, 2016 banned the use of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes and allowed the holders of these currency bills to deposit them with banks or use them at certain notified utilities.

In its annual report for 2016-17 released on August 30 last year, the RBI said Rs 15.28 lakh crore, or 99 per cent of the demonetised notes, had returned to the banking system.

The central bank said in the report, for the year ended June 30, 2017, that only Rs 16,050 crore of the Rs 15.44 lakh crore in old high denomination notes had not returned.

As on November 8, 2016, there were 1,716.5 crore pieces of Rs 500 and 685.8 crore pieces of Rs 1,000 notes in circulation, totalling Rs 15.44 lakh crore, it had said.Before applying to any company for a job or before going in for an interview, one must make sure he/she does a proper research about the company. (Photo: ANI)

New Delhi: Scammers have become extremely crafty these days, making it difficult to determine whether a job offer is fake or a legitimate one. The main motive behind these scams is to extract hard-earned money from the candidates and disappear.

Director, Spectrum Talent Management, Vidur Gupta, lists out certain ways that will help one to determine, if the job offer is a hoax.

Never pay:

If one is applying for a job in a reputed company, he/she must always remember that they do not ask for money. There are some people who receive offer letters stating that they have been selected for a particular job, for which they will have to pay a certain amount of money. These are fake job offers and one should never accept them.

Background research is a mandate:

Before applying to any company for a job or before going in for an interview, one must make sure he/she does a proper research about the company. One must always visit the website of the company and if they cannot find it online, then they must consider it as a scam. Every decent company has its own website, with contact information systematically listed.

Job details:

If the job details are not mentioned in the job posting, try finding out whether the candidates will be paid a commission or if there is a salary. The candidates must clarify all details regarding the pay scale; how they will be paid and when. If the company doesn't assure them an hourly rate or salary, then they should drop the idea of the job.

Interview process:

The interview should be formal. Rather than giving a telephonic interview, always believe in a face to face interaction. Scammers also conduct unethical interviews, which can be risky.

Use Google:

Google should be one's ultimate source of information. Try searching for the company name on Google. It will provide you with all the relevant information, and if Google doesn't give you a name, do not bother applying. Thereafter, type the company name along with 'scam' to find information about reported scams.

Be very careful:

If a job posting sounds too good to be legitimate, the candidate must verify it. Moreover, no good company asks for confidential information. If one receives a mail after applying for the job asking for the bank credentials, he/she should be sure that it is a scam. Before providing any information, one must make sure that the company is secure by looking at its website, it must be listed by 'https://'.

There may be identity theft, loss of confidential information, if one falls prey to a scammer. Before applying for any job online, one must do their research properly.

Every fake job has some kind of payment involved in it. Therefore, one must always stay one step ahead with the tips given above to find a legitimate job.The Central Board of Film Censors in Pakistan, in all its wisdom, has banned R. Balkis Pad Man from release in the country. The film hasnt been viewed by some of the members, as they accuse it of ruining Islamic traditions, history and culture, and that too without seeing the film.

Balki, who is currently in scenic Maheshwari, the city in Madhya Pradesh, where Pad Man was shot, says it is a shame that a film is being seen in a negative light, since it endeavours to eradicate the stigma towards menstrual hygiene.

I am disturbed by this prejudiced pre-judgement. I believe the Pakistan censor board didnt even bother to see the film. They refused to have anything to do with it, arguing that such films threaten Islamic culture and history. Pray tell, how does a film about the health concerns of women harm any culture in the world? It is truly saddening that we still look at a normal, monthly physiological occurrence as something not to be spoken about.

Interestingly Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmaavat, that released two weeks earlier and portrayed the Islamic invader Alalluddin Khilji as a brutal and barbaric villain, was approved of by the Pakistan board. But their liberal decision has been frowned upon by the politicians and moralists of Pakistan.

A source from Pakistan says Pad Man was being served up an example of the countrys censorial austerity. By being liberal over Padmaavat, the Pakistan censor board has incensed a powerful lobby in Pakistans politics, which is now threatening a ban on all Indian films in Pakistan. Pad Man is suffering a collateral

damage.

Balki believes that the decision to not release Pad Man has nothing to do with politics. He concludes, I urge the Pakistani censor board to view the film. They will realise how deeply empathetic it is to the culture of the Asian subcontinent where women die due to a lack of menstrual hygiene.Popular small screen actor Rajkamal is a relieved man these days. His long pending movie Melnaattu Marumagan, lying in cans for a while due to financial constraints, is finally hitting the marquee on February 16 on a clutch of screens.

As the title suggests, the film directed by MSS is a story of a boy in the neighbourhood of Mahabalipuram who is bent upon marrying a foreigner for the reason that he is fond of fair skinned females and better prospects.

Andri Ann, a French model living in India in Pondicherry for almost 20 years, has been roped in to play opposite Rajkamal. And she says that Franco-Indian character she essays in the movie is what she is in real life.

Talking to DC, Rajkamal says, I was introduced by none other than legend K. Balachander sir in a mega soap Sahana and did many serials in his banner. But acting in films is always my passion and on advice from a senior filmmaker, I stopped signing serials. It was around the same time that I got this film offer when director MSS was looking for a guy with next door looks.

Unfortunately, MM was mired in financial problems and the release was delayed. He adds, After seeing my stills in MM, I got the opportunity to play the lead in Chandikuthirai which has already hit the theatres. The actor is hoping to break the jinx with MM's release this week and he also has two more films in his kitty.Almost an eon ago, the growth of Tamil cinema in Sri Lanka was considered on par with the Tamil film industry. However, there was a slump in making Sri Lankan Tamil movies owing to various issues and influences in the island nation. Now, King Ratnam, a well-known name in the Lankan Tamil movie circuit, is attempting to break the jinx and bring the lost glory back to Lankan Tamil cinema.

After 40 years, Komaali Kings, a Sri Lankan feature-length Tamil film made with an all-Sri Lankan cast and crew is being hailed as an important milestone in the rebirth of Sri Lankan Tamil film industry. The film is to hit the theatres globally.

Spilling the beans on the film, King Ratnam tells us, Though a Sri Lankan Tamil movie, it is a family entertainer which will be enjoyed by Tamils of all age groups throughout the world. It has a dash of all commercial elements like comedy, romance, action, thrill, suspense, good songs and production values that will engage the audiences from start to finish. I want to prove we are no less in our creativity and the film sets the benchmark high and sends a strong message to those who doubt our capabilities and artistry of our filmmaker and artistes.

Just like how Tamil films are set in different parts of Tamil Nadu like Madurai, Tirunelvell and has the dialects of those areas, KK incorporates the 5 different slangs of Tamil being spoken in various parts of Sri Lanka like Yaaazhpaanam, Maddak Kalappu (Batticaloa), Malayagam, and Colombo. The star announcer, famous actor and radio commentator B. H. Abdul Hameedh has helped coordinate this landmark movie.

At a time when even small budget Tamil films are finding it difficult to get theatres for their release, Komaali Kings which has story, screenplay and direction by King Ratnam (grandson of famed stage and film actor Ratnam) besides him playing the lead is likely to get around 100 screens in Tamil Nadu.

Quiz him on that and he responds, Given a good content, the audiences are ready to lap it. I am talking to big business players in Tamil cinema and trying to get as many screens as possible.Naushad, who started his label in 2014, studied at NIFT, Chennai (2008) and lived in Bengaluru for a few years honing his design skills.

If you dont own a piece from Pondicherry slow fashion champ Naushad Ali's eponymous label then it's high time to head over to his e-store. The only home-grown designer to show at the recently concluded Lakme Fashion Week, Summer Resort 2018, Naushad received rave reviews.

Presenting a capsule collection in soft silk, cotton and linen 'When the Dot Took a Walk' gave us some beautiful dresses and separates with the designer's trademark charm. "We definitely keep our designs easy, breezy and beautiful - that is our ideal client. One of the most essential parts of our design process is sustainability in terms of fabric development, through craft, and its use." the NIFT alumnus tells us.

Whilst sustainability is enjoying a well-deserved place in the couture galaxy, it is designers like Ali who translate eco-friendly fabrics and processes into wearable garments that we can rejoice in every day and ensures that sustainable fashion is here to stay.

"Our newest collection sees us trying our hands at mud-resist printing techniques. It is a contemporary take on traditional motifs and dyeing in natural shades. We worked closely with our favourite dyers in Jodhpur." the Pondicherry native shares.

We can look forward to Naushad's fluid silhouettes with cheeky polka dots in yellow and in a monochrome palette, trendy checks in burnt orange and more. On his third successful showing at LFW, the 32-year-old says he is grateful for the experience "Lakme Fashion week is always a great platform to show our designs and interact with not just the fashion community but also direct clients because of the extensive coverage on social media platforms. It definitely puts one on the map, so to speak."

Naushad, who started his label in 2014, studied at NIFT, Chennai (2008) and lived in Bengaluru for a few years honing his design skills. Moving back to his hometown in 2013 to start his business, he recounts "Honestly, I never really felt like I never really fit in there at a big city. We are tucked away in Pondicherry and sometimes it is a challenge for the business but I think it's the charm of this place that inspires and drives our designs, ultimately setting us apart from the mainstream."

(Available in Chennai at the Amethyst Room and online www.shopnaushadali.in)A group of around 20 parents convened on the school's campus and demanded an explanation from the principal. (Photo: Facebook/ Jocelyn Morffi )

A Lesbian teacher was fired from her Catholic school just days after marrying the "love of (her) life". Jocelyn Morffi was sacked from her first-grade teaching job at Saints Peter and Paul school, Miami, as soon as she returned from her wedding to Natasha Hass in the Florida Keys.

Morffi announced her shock news on social media, posting, This weekend I married the love of my life and unfortunately I was terminated from my job as a result. In their eyes I'm not the right kind of Catholic for my choice in partner.

In fact, a letter was sent from the school to parents, on Thursday, but it failed to go into detail as to why Morffi was fired.

A group of around 20 parents convened on the school's campus and demanded an explanation from the principal.

A parent Cintia Cini, who has a child in Morffi's class, told the Miami Herald: "We were extremely livid. They treated her like a criminal, they didn't even let her get her things out of her classroom. Our only concern was the way she was with our children, the way she taught our children and this woman by far was one of the best teachers out there."

While the school failed to respond to a comment, Archdiocese of Miami spokeswoman Mary Ross Agosta did confirm that Morffi had been fired.

However, she wouldn't give any further explanation other than Morffi breakng her contract.

Agosta asserted that policy prohibits the discussion of personnel matters.

She went on to add that as a teacher in a Catholic school their responsibility is partly for the spiritual growth of the children.

"One has to understand that in any corporation, institution or organization there are policies and procedures and teachings and traditions that are adhered to. If something along the way does not continue to stay within that contract, then we have no other choice, she added.

Archbishop Thomas Wenski released a memo, following Florida's lift on same sex marriage in 2015, that placed emphasis on the city's policy.

As church representatives, all employees are to abide by Catholic teachings, the memo explained.The Delhi University student uploaded the video on social media of a middle-aged man masturbating in a moving bus. (Photo: Twitter Screengrab | @ManishaGulati6)

New Delhi: Reports of sexual harassment against women is mounting in the national capital where a Delhi University student filmed a man masturbating sitting right next to her in a crowded, moving bus and even repeatedly touching her waist.

As per the FIR, the incident occurred on February 7 on the route between Vasant Village in South Delhi and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gate.

The complainant shouted at the accused, but "he did not understand" and the co-passengers also "ignored it," the FIR further read.

The Delhi University student also uploaded the video of the incident on social media.

In the video, which the girl has posted, a middle-aged man is seen exposing and fondling himself, a bag on his lap shielding his activities from most passengers in the bus but the young woman sitting next to him.

Shockingly, the woman shouted at the man but he was unfazed.

The woman left the bus and went straight to the police station to file a complaint for sexual harassment and public obscenity.

The man, clearly seen in the video clip, is yet to be arrested.

An FIR has been lodged with Vasant Vihar Police under sections 354 (sexual harassment), 354A, and 294 (obscene act in public place) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The incident has once again raised questions on the safety of women, especially in Delhi, which was in the world media glare when a medical student died in 2012 after being gangraped on a moving bus.

Sexual harassment on public transport or at public places, in the form of touching, flashing and masturbation, is not uncommon in Delhi.

Despite an assurance by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, there were no marshals or CCTV cameras in buses plying in the capital.

With inputs from agencies.SRINAGAR: Three more Army personnel and a civilian were killed as the standoff between Jaish-e-Muham-mad militants and security forces at an Army base in Jammu continued for the second day on Sunday, taking the toll till now to 10, including five Armymen, one civilian and four terrorists. The authorities said that one more militant has been killed, in addition to the three JeM attackers who were killed on Saturday.

The operation to flush out terrorists is on and the evacuation (of people from the family quarters within the base) is in progress, said Jammu-based deference spokesperson Lt. Col. Devender Anand. There was no firing since last night, he added.

Five Army men, including two junior commissioned officers (JCOs), and the father of a soldier have been killed in the attack by the terrorists who struck at the sprawling Sunjwan camp of the 36 Brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) shortly before dawn on Saturday, an Army spokesperson said.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, who had reached Jammu on early Sunday, reviewed the situation and held a meeting with senior Army officials. A team of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) also reached Jammu to begin their probe into the terror attack.

After the attack, troops from the Armys special forces, members of the J&K polices counterinsurgency Special Operations Group (SOG) and those of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) had rushed to the spot and cordoned off the whole area amid a fierce gunfight.

They were later joined by the IAF Para commandos airlifted to Jammu from the garrison town of Udhampur and Sarsawa in Haryana.

Jawan fought terrorists with bare hands

The officials said that three more Army personnel killed in militant firing and grenade attacks are Havaldar Habibullah Qureshi, Naik Manzoor Ahmed and Lance Naik Muhammad Iqbal, whose father also died.

Two other Armymen killed in the initial militant attack are JCO Subedar Madan Lal Chaudhary of 4 JAKLI and non-commissioned officer Muhammad Ashraf Mir of 1 JAKLI.

Sources said that Subedar Madan Lal faced a group of heavily armed desperate terrorists with bare hands, took bullets on his chest and arms, yet ensured that the assailants could not inflict much harm on his family.

The subedar eventually fell to the AK 47 bullets fired by the terrorists, who attacked his quarter at Sunjwan Army station in Jammu, but still foiled their plan to cause maximum damage.Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, 'Activities of terrorists in the hinterlands are severely curtailed due to relentless efforts of security forces.' (Photo: ANI)

Jammu: With two terror attacks on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir in the last two days, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said "Pakistan will have to pay for this misadventure."

"I wouldn't certainly state a timeline (for action against Pakistan). But will say this, Pakistan will pay for this misadventure. I repeat, Pakistan will pay for it," the Defence Minister said.

The Defence Minister, who arrived in Jammu on Monday to meet the injured soldiers and civilians and assess the security situation, in her address to the media said, "The Ministry of Defence will stand by the Army. We have to work together with the Jammu and Kashmir government."

Also read: Army camp siege: 5 jawans killed, 4 terrorists shot dead; NIA takes stock

She said that the terrorists who attacked Jammu Army camp "enjoyed some local support, had handlers across the border."

On Saturday, one of the deadliest terror attacks took place in Sunjuwan Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir, in which five army personnel and a civilian died. Ten people, including six women and children, were injured. The police said terrorists of Jaish-e Mohammad were involved, who were killed after a nearly 36-hour operation.

Another suicide attack at Karan Nagar CRPF Camp in Srinagar was repulsed on Monday morning.

Also read: Army foils militant attack on Srinagar CRPF camp, 1 jawan dead in gunbattle

In a scathing attack on Pakistan, the minister said the neighbouring state has not taken any action "despite dossier after dossier given to them... In fact those responsible for Mumbai terror attack are freely roaming in Pakistan".

"Intelligence inputs show that terrorists were controlled by their handlers from across border. Evidence are being scrutinised by the NIA (National Investigation Agency). Pakistan is expanding the arch of terror to areas south of Pir Panjal and resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration," said the Defence Minister.

Sitharaman said Pakistan has been violating ceasefire to help infiltrators. "Activities of terrorists in the hinterlands are severely curtailed due to relentless efforts of security forces," the Defence Minister added.

"Six fatal casualties, including a civilian were caused by the terrorists. Three terrorists have been eliminated. There were reports of four terrorists. The fourth terrorist must have been a guide and may not have entered the Camp area," Sitharaman said.

The Defence Minister said, "Giving the evidences to Pakistan will be a continuous process. It will have to be proved over and over again that they are responsible. Pakistan will have to pay for this misadventure."

The Defence Minister expressed her condolences on loss of lives of our soldiers in the terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in the last 48 hours. She said, "I compliment the valour of our brave soldiers."

Soon after arriving in Jammu, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday met J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.

Jammu: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met #JammuAndKashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti. pic.twitter.com/wR4u8N2Vk4  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

The Defence Minister also visited the Military Hospital in Jammu to meet those who were injured in the Sunjuwan Army Camp attack.

(Photo: ANI)Two armed-terrorists were spotted in the wee hours of Monday at the 23 Battalion CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar. (Photo: ANI | Twitter)

Jammu: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has claimed the responsibility for the terror attack at Karan Nagar CRPF camp on Monday.

However, its chief in Jammu and Kashmir Mehmood Shah has, in a statement issued to media, also paid "tributes" to militants killed in the Army' retaliatory action in Jammu.

A CRPF personnel was 'martyred' in the ongoing encounter at the 23 Battalion CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar, where two armed-terrorists were spotted in the wee hours of Monday.

Also Read: Army foils militant attack on Srinagar CRPF camp, 1 jawan dead in gunbattle

The attack comes two days after terrorists, on Saturday, barged into the Sunjwan Army camp in Jammu, killing five security personnel and one civilian. Six Army personnel and six civilians are injured.

Four terrorists belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) have been gunned down.

Also Read: Jammu and Kashmir: 3 more soldiers die in Sunjwan

Combing operations are underway at the Sunjwan Army Camp.

Meanwhile, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman left for Jammu to assess the security situation in the state.The RSS chief said this while addressing the workers at Zila school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur. (Photo: PTI)

Patna: Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the organization has the ability to prepare an army to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises.

The RSS chief said this while addressing the workers at Zila school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur.

Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so, Bhagwat said.

Sangh is neither a military nor a para military organisation, rather it is like a parivarik sangathan (family organisation) where discipline is practised like the Army, he said adding that workers are always happily ready to make supreme sacrifices for their country.

Bhagwat exhorted the RSS workers to set an example of good conduct in their personal, family and social lives.Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday lashed out at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat over his disrespectful statement against the Indian Army. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday lashed out at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat over his disrespectful statement against the Indian Army.

In a scathing attack on twitter, Rahul said RSS chief's remark was an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have sacrificed their lives for the nation.

Using hashtag "#ApologizeRSS", the Congress president said the speech was an insult to the Indian flag, soldiers.

Rahul said, "Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army."

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation.



It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it.



Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani and patidar activist Hardik Patel too joined Rahul in attacking Bhagwat.

"RSS is an army of underwear clad men who spark riots in country. I urge Bhagwat to go sell pakodas across country so that Modi can give government jobs to youth of our country," Mevani tweeted.

Addressing RSS workers in Muzaffarpur, Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the organisation has the ability to prepare an Army to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises.

Also Read: Army will take 6 months, RSS can ready forces in 3 days: Mohan Bhagwat

Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so, Bhagwat said.

Sangh is neither a military nor a para military organisation, rather it is like a parivarik sangathan (family organisation) where discipline is practised like the Army, he said adding that workers are always happily ready to make supreme sacrifices for their country.

Bhagwat exhorted the RSS workers to set an example of good conduct in their personal, family and social lives.Intermittent exchange of fire was reported and the CRPF moved in more troops to ensure that the militants do not escape. (Photo: Twitter | ANI)

Srinagar: One jawan was killed in a gunbattle in Srinagars Karan Nagar area after the Army foiled a militant attack on a CRPF camp early on Monday, an official said.

"The sentry at the camp noticed two suspicious persons at around 4.30 am, carrying backpacks and weapons. He challenged them and opened fire as well," a spokesman of the CRPF said.

The militants fled from the spot, the spokesman said.

The militants have taken shelter in a house which has been cordoned off by the CRPF.

Intermittent exchange of fire was reported and the CRPF moved in more troops to ensure that the militants do not escape.

Read: Sunjwan attack: Cong asks Modi to 'personally supervise' op against terrorists

The incident comes two days after Jaish-e-Mohammad militants attacked an Army camp in Sunjwan area of Jammu, killing six people including five soldiers.Police has also identified Vijay Shankar, a travelling ticket examiner with the Railways as one of the attackers. (Photo: ANI)

Allahabad: The Uttar Pradesh Police on Sunday arrested the main accused in the death of a law student of Allahabad University.

The 26-year-old, Dilip Saroj, who was thrashed by a group of people during an argument in Katra Bazar was pursuing law in Allahabad University.

The incident came to light after a video of it went viral on social media.

Read: Law student dies after being beaten up with bricks, iron rods in UPs Allahabad

"A special team of Allahabad had arrested Munna Singh Chauhan who had attacked Dilip several times with a rod," said SSP Akash Kulhari.

PAolice has also identified, Vijay Shankar, a travelling ticket examiner (TTE) with the Railways as one of the attackers.

On Saturday, Saroj and his friends went out for dinner at the restaurant when they had an argument with the attackers which later turned violent, said police.Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehabooba Mufti on Monday once again advocated resumption of peace dialogue with Pakistan which, she said, was vital in order to seek an end to the suffering of the people of the State. (Photo: ANI | Twitter)

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehabooba Mufti on Monday once again advocated resumption of peace dialogue with Pakistan which, she said, was vital in order to seek an end to the suffering of the people of the State.

The entreaty came in the backdrop of constant cross-border firing and shelling incidents in which scores of people, mostly civilians, have been killed and wounded in past three weeks and militant attacks at security forces camps in twin capitals of Jammu and Srinagar.

She tweeted, Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option.

Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option.  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) February 12, 2018

Also Read: Jammu and Kashmir: 3 more soldiers die in Sunjwan

Meanwhile, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has claimed the responsibility of Karan Nagar CRPF Camp terror attack.

Also Read: LeT claims responsibility of terror attack at Karan Nagar CRPF camp

However, its chief in Jammu and Kashmir Mehmood Shah has, in a statement issued to media, also paid "tributes" to militants killed in the Army' retaliatory action in Jammu.Jaipur: In a last ditched effort to woo voters before the Assembly elections due this year, Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje presented a please all budget on Monday.

Despite fiscal constraints, no new tax was levied and sops were announced for farmers.

This move is a direct result of the governments defeat in the recently held bypolls on two Lok Sabha and an Assembly constituency.

Raje said no new tax has been introduced providing a relief of Rs 650 crore to the citizens of Rajasthan.

Political compulsion also forced her to waive off one-time loans for small and marginal farmers up to Rs 50,000. The CM said it would cost Rs 8,000 crore to the exchequer. This is despite the fact that the government faced double whammy of falling revenue and rising expenditure.

One lakh families from backward categories economically weaker upper castes would be provided Rs 50,000 loan for self employment on 4 per cent interest without any collateral.

Reaching out to the women government employees Raje announced a two-year child care leave. This can be used in any time during the service period. Honorarium for 1.84 lakh aanganwari workers was hiked, and in addition the state will now bear 100 per cent of their insurance premium.Chennai: Amid boycott by Opposition parties, a portrait of the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa was unveiled on Monday in the Tamil Nadu Assembly by Speaker P. Dhanapal. In their speeches, Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and his deputy O. Panneerselvam lavished praise on their late leader and asserted that Jayalalithaas fame would remain intact as long as the earth exists.

The seven foot high and five foot wide portrait, drawn by R Mathiazhagan, former principal of Government Arts College, faces the Opposition benches in the Assembly, which on Monday was occupied by AIADMK MPs, senior lawyers and other partymen as the entire Opposition boycotted the event.

With Jayalalithaas portrait, the number of pictures in the Tamil Nadu Assembly has gone upto 11. Portraits of former chief ministers C. Rajagopalachari, K. Kamaraj, C.N. Annadurai and M.G. Ramachandran adorn the walls of the building inside the historic Fort St. George besides those of Periyar, Thiruvalluvar and B.R. Ambedkar.

The Jaya portrait has Amaidhi, Valam Valarchi (Peace, Prosperity and Growth) written under it. DMK, Congress and IUML, which have a combined strength of 98 MLAs in the House stayed away from the event even as Congress MLA Vijayadharani met Dhanapal in his chamber after the function and thanked him for the gesture.

I thanked the Speaker since he has unveiled the picture of a woman chief minister, she told reporters here.New Delhi: The RSS, BJP and Union ministers on Monday rushed to the defence of Sangh Parivar boss Mohan Bhagwat over allegations that he had tried to undermine the Armys preparedness and had disrespected martyrs.

As Congress president Rahul Gandhi attacked Mr Bhagwat, saying his remarks were an insult to every Indian and demanded an apology, Union minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju, along with the RSS, jumped to defend the Sangh Parivar supremo. While the RSS claimed that its boss statements were misrepresented, Mr Rijiju defended him by saying that in emergency situations every Indian must volunteer to stand with the defence forces. BJP ally JD(U)s chief and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar also tried to defend the RSS boss when he asked: If an organisation says that it is eager to safeguard the borders, is it a matter of controversy?

The RSS claimed that Mr Bhagwats remarks were only made as a comparison between ordinary citizens and Sangh volunteers (swayamsevaks) and were in no way a comparison with the Indian Army.

Mohan Bhagwats speech is being misrepresented. Mr Bhagwat had said that if situation arises and the Constitution permits, the Army would take six months to prepare society, whereas Sangh swayamsevaks can be trained in three days, as swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly, said RSS Akhil Bhartiya Prachaar Pramukh Manmohan Vaidya.New Delhi: The Supreme Court with a view to preventing criminalisation of politics, questioned whether convicted politicians can form and head a political party, can choose candidates for the polls after they are disqualified from contesting elections.

A Bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A.M. Khanwilkar and D.Y. Chandrachud made this observation during the course of hearing of a PIL by BJP leader and advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyaya seeking a ban on convicted persons from forming or being officer bearers of a political party.

The Chief Justice orally observed, How can a convicted person be an office-bearer of a political party and select candidates to contest elections. This goes against our judgments that corruption in politics to be ostracised from the purity of elections. It is a strange situation that what convicted persons cannot do individually, can do collectively through some of their agents?

A man cannot directly contest an election, so he constitutes a group of persons to form a political party and contest an election. An association of people can do philanthropic activities like have a hospital or a school. But when it comes to the field of governance, it is a different matter.

The Bench asked the Centre to file its response after the Election Commission filed an affidavit that it was supporting the ban.Hyderabad: The state government has decided to take the ordinance route to make Telugu compulsory for students from Class I to XII across the state from the academic year 2018-19.

The draft ordinance was referred to the law ministry for approval on Monday. All schools, including CBSE, ICSE, and IB, will be brought under the ordinance.

Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar had announced the governments decision to make Telugu compulsory in all schools during the World Telugu Conference held in the city in December last.

Mr Rao initially thought of passing an Act in this regard. However, it was decided later to bring an ordinance first as the new academic year for CBSE and ICSE schools starts in March and the Budget session of the TS Legislature is expected in mid-March.

Officials pointed out that if the legislation is passed by March-end, schools will not have enough time to make the necessary arrangements for teaching Telugu. It might also invite legal challenges if schools are forced to implement the Telugu norm at the last minute.

IB schools likely to face problems

CBSE and ICSE schools in the state already offer Telugu as a subject, but IB (International Baccalaureate) schools are likely to face problems.

However, sources revealed that the draft ordinance has a provision for Telugu to be a subject in IB schools at primary-school level, but for the existing upper primary and secondary students, basic Telugu can be introduced with no exams.

The school education department has drafted the draft ordinance and referred it to the law department for approval. Once it is passed, it will be sent to the Governor who will issue the ordinance, official sources said.

They said they followed the legislation recently introduced by Karnataka, which made Kannada compulsory in all schools in that state. Though some schools had challenged it in the courts there, they had lost.Fireworks illuminate the sky during the valedictory ceremony of the World Telugu Conference at LB Stadium on Tuesday. (Photo: DC)

HYDERABAD: President Ramnath Kovind heaped praise on the Telugu language, calling it a global language and a bridge language between North and South India.

He said Telugu is heard everywhere across the world from Africa to Asia to America. Telugus form a large part of the Indian diaspora, especially in the United States. Telugus are successful, holding posts in public office, as doctors, technocrats, entrepreneurs etc. Mr Kovind mentioned Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella to back his point.

Mr Kovind was the chief guest for the closing ceremony of the five-day World Telugu Conference that ended on a colourful note at LB Stadium on Tuesday evening.

Mr Kovind also praised Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Raos interest and fluency in Telugu language. Although the President spoke in English, he did speak a few lines in Telugu at the start and at the end amidst cheers from the big gathering in the stadium.

Mr Kovind spoke of Telugu personalities who had contributed to the nation. Krishnadevarya was known for his good rule and love of Telugu language. Three past Presidents (Dr S. Radhakrishna, V.V. Giri, Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy) and a former Prime Minister, P.V. Narasimha Rao, had a Telugu connection. Works of Nannaya, Tikkana, Gurajada Appa Rao, Sri Sri, Vattikota Alwarswamy, Dasarathi etc are very popular and so are Tyagaraja and Annamaya keerthans, the President said. Komaram Bheem, Cha-kali Ailamma, Bhagy-areddy Varma, and Swami Ramanand Tirtha influenced others with their lives and work.

Like the Telugu people, the Telugu language has been receptive to words, thoughts and ideas from other languages and regions, the President said.

Mr Kovind lauded the Manabadi programme of the government that focuses on spreading Tel-ugu language and culture among young children.Vijayawada: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu focused on the future and said, we fought for independence in the past, now it is time to fight for the state, which which will create history.

He said this while speaking at the teleconference on the Neeru Pragathi event on Monday. Naidu said, We have extended our support to BJP for the past three-and-a-half years, even during times like GST and demonetisation, but it wasnt reciprocated.

Naidu said, the Union government should support AP, which has incurred a great loss due to bifurcation. He also opined that the Centre should support the state until it was on par with other states.

Naidu lauded the MPs firm stand in the Parliament for protecting the states interests.

The Chief Minister spoke against the Opposition and lambasted YSRC for creating hurdles at every step through letters to the Union government. He objected to the Opposition complaining to the Union minister who is fighting to protect state interests.

He said it was against state interests, whether it was done intentionally out of naivety.KALABURAGI: Asserting that Karnataka was far better off than BJP ruled states in so far as law and order and governance is concerned, AICC President Rahul Gandhi advised Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to deliver a "discourse" on these subjects to people of Karnataka.

Addressing a big gathering of Congress workers at Jewargi near here on Monday as part of his 'Janashirvad Yatre,' Mr Gandhi said: Violence is rampant In Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan where the BJP is in power. The BJP is creating enmity between communities and triggering violence among them. Dalits, minorities and other backward communities are bearing the brunt of the violence. Mr Modi, please go and see those BJP-ruled states instead of delivering a discourse to people of Karnataka.

The Congress president also flayed Mr Modi for neglecting the interests of farmers, while going out of the way to promote the interests of select corporate bodies. Once I had gone to Modi's office and requested him to waive farm loans (borrowed from nationalised and scheduled banks). Mr. Modi didn't say anything. After a few days, I raised the same issue with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He took a decision to waive farm loans of around Rs 8,000 crore (borrowed from cooperative societies) in ten hours, Mr Gandhi said.

He hailed the contributions of Congress leader in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and former CM late Dharam Singh in the enactment of Article 371(J) providing special status to Hyderabad-Karnataka.

The BJP-led NDA government had outrightly rejected the demand for Article 371(J). After the Congress-led UPA assumed power at the Centre, we did it, he said. He added that the H-K region got additional 5000 medical and engineering seats every year, 20,000 additional jobs and Rs 4000 crore additional funds in the last three years thanks to Article 371(J).Raichur: Congress president, Rahul Gandhi on Monday demanded an apology from Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief, Mohan Bhagwat for his recent comments on the countrys armed forces.

Speaking to reporters here he said Mr Bhagwat had demeaned the armed forces by saying the RSS could do what they could not. Mr Bhagwat must apologise for his remarks as everyone in the country must show the highest regard for the armed forces, he insisted.

Mr Gandhi, who was on the third day of his visit to Hyderabad Karnataka region, addressed a series of rallies where he took on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also state BJP chief, B S Yeddyurappa. Referring to the latters latest tweet, he retorted, If you want to talk about corruption, talk a bit about (BJP national chief) Amit Shahs sons corruption. How he made Rs 80 crore out of Rs 50,000 in three months.

Attacking the Prime Minister on unemployment in the country, he said, India is competing with China, which provides 50,000 jobs in 24 hours, but Modi provides a mere 450 in the same time. Youth in the country voted for him to provide them jobs, but the fact is the Siddaramaiah government in Karnataka is giving them more jobs."

The Congress president drew applause and whistles at a rally in Raichur when he paused in his speech as a mark of respect on hearing the azaan and continued only when it had ended.

Later, taking an unscheduled break from the campaign, he stopped by a small tea shop to relish the local snacks like puffed rice and mirchi bhajji.

He was all smiles talking to the leaders present, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and senior leader, Veerappa Molly. He later paid the bill and boarded the bus to resume his poll campaign.Hyderabad: The Telangana state government intends to extend conditional support to the inter-linking of rivers proposed by the Centre, at the South Indian Irrigation Ministers Conference to be held in the city on February 20.

Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao has instructed irrigation minister T. Harish Rao to put forth the state governments strong arguments and concerns on inter-li-nking of rivers and inter-state disputes on sharing of the waters of the Godavari and Krishna rivers.

Mr Harish Rao has been told to make it clear that TS supports interlinking on the condition that the states present and future requirements are met first. He will also pitch for national project status for the Kaleshw-aram project. TS also wants interlinking of Mahanadi-Godavari first, before taking up the Godavari (Akinepalli) NSP Tail Pond- Cauvery (Grand anicut) linking.

The irrigation department estimates that TS will require about 1600 TMC of Godavari water, against its earmarked utilisation of 1260 TMC.

The state government is concerned that the proposed barrage at Akinepalli as part of the interlinking, with a storage capacity of 20 TMC, is likely to submerge about 35,000 acres, affecting 55,000 people in 45 villages in Warangal and Khammam districts. This apart, the canal netwo-rk would require another 12,000 acres, which involves huge financial implications for the state government.

The state governments argument is that with the proposed interlinking, 7.50 lakh acres will get the benefit in the state but due to ongoing projects of the government, the majority of this command area would be covered and there was no need for submergence of villages and acquiring thousands of acres for minor benefit.

The other contention is that the interlinking will pass through a significant forest area and it will be difficult to get clearance, and to find alternative land for compensatory afforestation.

Meanwhile, Mr Harish Rao has received an invitation to attend a meeting convened by the Union ministry of water resources on February 15 in Delhi.It was a state visit to a non-state. We have de-hyphenated our relations with Palestine and Israel and now we see them both as mutually independent and exclusive and as part of this policy the Prime Minister is undertaking this visit, boasted an external affairs ministry joint secretary. But the linkage and the hyphen seemed very strong indeed as Israeli Air Force helicopters escorted the Royal Jordanian Army helicopter in which Narendra Modi travelled to Ramallah in the Israeli-occupied West Bank whose entrance, exit, borders and airspace are all strictly controlled by Israel. No doubt Mr Modi meant well. Some reports claim he said India hoped for an early realisation of a sovereign and independent state of Palestine. Whether he did or not, he didnt want millions of dispossessed Palestinians to feel his heady bromance with Benjamin Netanyahu leaves them forever stateless in a no-mans-land. Hence the balancing act of this visit. The surreptitious pussyfooting of all those years going back to the 1962 Himalayan war when India felt guilty about its Israeli lover is over. India and Israel are now proud strategic partners, ties extending to intelligence- sharing on terrorism and joint military training. As the largest buyer of Israeli weapons, India actually helps Israel maintain its stranglehold on the conquered West Bank, Gaza and Golan Heights. Indo-Israeli military business was worth around $9 billion between 1999 and 2009.

Unlike his predecessors, Mr Modi doesnt have to be secretive. If Israeli claims regarding a survey by an unnamed international market research company are to be believed, Zionism is more popular in India than in the United States. The study claims 58 per cent of Indian respondents are sympathetic to the Jewish state, against only 56 per cent of Americans. But let us not pretend the Israelis had nothing to do with this first visit to Palestine by an Indian Prime Minister. No doubt under official guidance, some reporters made much of the fact that Mr Modi travelled from Jordan and not Israel, as Pranab Mukherjee had done. That eyewash will convince no one who knows the situation. Mindful of its artificial identity and precariously poised monarchy, the Hashemite kingdom of Jordan is Israels closest friend in West Asia. The late King Husseins limousine could be seen waiting at the Allenby Bridge early every morning even during the Six-Day War for the Jerusalem Post newspaper, which he obviously regarded as more reliable than any Arab publication. The half-English, British-trained King Abdullah II, whom the media showed in the obligatory bear hug with Mr Modi, was Mr Netanyahus proxy on this occasion.

That wouldnt have mattered if the visit meant a genuine step towards sovereign independence. Palestines present status can be compared to the 15 republics of the old Soviet Union (several of which were United Nations members) or  more appositely  apartheid South Africas Bantustans, four of which were declared independent although recognised only by Pretoria. For that matter, pre-1947 India was a founding member of the League of Nations and the United Nations, declared war and made peace, but all on Londons orders. The red carpet reception for Mr Modi, the guard of honour and troop inspection could be compared to the Maharaja of Bikaner and Lord Sinha attending the 1919-20 Versailles Peace Conference. Allowing Mahmoud Abbas the fripperies of a head of state receiving a visiting foreign head of government showed Mr Netanyahu understands the visitors psychology.

Mr Modi proudly boasts he calls his friend Mr Netanyahu by his nickname Bibi. Despite contradictory statements, Israel hopes to sell India 8,000 Spike anti-tank missiles for $500 million. Following talks I have held with my friend, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr Netanyahu declared when visiting India last month, the Indian government has informed us it is putting the Spike deal back on track. This is very important and there will be many more deals. The two men seem made for each other. But does this mean Israel will stop illegal Jewish settlements in the West Bank, relax the squeeze on Gaza, return the Golan Heights or recognise Palestines independence? Mr Modi would deserve the grateful thanks of six million West Bank inhabitants if he could persuade his friend to do so. But then, he may not even be aware of the historical background and rationale for the Israeli recalcitrance. Shimon Peres, Israels former Prime Minister and President, regarded as a dove in a cast of hawks, who died in 2016, explained the Zionist stand in his books.

First, he denied the existence of a separate Palestinian nation, claiming Palestinians were only those Arabs who happened to be in the West Bank or Gaza but were indistinguishable from other Arabs throughout West Asia. Second, Peres held that the old Mandate for Palestine carved out of the former Ottoman empire at the end of the First World War could hold only two independent states  Israel and Jordan  which already exist. There is no room for a third. Beyond that is the suspicion of the Zionist dream of Eretz Yisrael, Land of Israel, stretching from the Nile to the Euphrates. Mr Netanyahu has not said or done anything to dispel such fears. Mr Modi promised Palestinians generous financial and technological assistance. But that was also part of Peres benevolence for a conquered land and its people. Choosing his words with care, Mr Abbas described Mr Modis visit as significant. It will deserve a higher adjective only if future events show the Prime Minister persuaded his real host in Jerusalem who oversaw all arrangements to disgorge the fruits of war and cease to be the only country in the world to retain conquered territory. Then only might the visit be termed historic.The atmospherics were great as Kim Jong-uns sister, Kim Yo Jong, was the cynosure of all eyes at the Winter Olympics in South Koreas Pyeongchang. The media fawned over the always-smiling younger sister of North Koreas dictator as she grabbed everyones attention as US vice-president Mike Pence sat in a row below at the opening and studiously ignored her. North Korea is even tipped as likely winner of the diplomatic gold and its South Koreas President Moon Jae-in whos bang in the middle of this diplomatic churning. Hes caught between his belief in the power of Koreans talking to Koreans, and his nation being part of the US-Japan axis to check North Korea as well as to tackle China.

The tangible aspect of the dragons diplomatic dance is that Kim may have sent an invitation to Moon for a summit in the North. However, while he may have been inclined to accept, its learnt the South Korean President sent a subtle message back that inter-Koreas talks could resume only if the North talks directly with the United States on its nuclear missiles. The possible response to this can well be imagined. Moon may have the support of some countrymen for a rapprochement with the North, but hes still bound by ties to the US. Moon had to deal with Shinzo Abes prod on military exercises and yet he ensured Japan was not offended in the Korean diplomatic dance. The world cant be sanguine yet about the prospect of peace talks between the Koreas.There appears to be something seriously amiss in the governments imagination, as well as capability, in dealing with the security situation and with politics in Jammu and Kashmir. The practically twin terrorist strikes occurring in Jammu and Srinagar between Saturday and Monday seemed to underline the helplessness of those in authority in taking a measure of the situation. While the terrorist strike in the family quarters section of the Sunjwan Army camp ended on Sunday night after a 36-hour firefight, the attack on the CRPF camp at Karan Nagar in the heart of Srinagar  which began early on Monday morning  was thwarted with the loss of one jawans life, but the terrorists planted themselves in a nearby building under construction and the skirmish was on throughout the day.

The security grid in J&K has been leaking since January 1, 2016 when the attack on the Pathankot airbase occurred, and there seems to be no accountability. A succession of high-profile attacks on Army and CRPF establishments caused the government to launch what it called a cross-LoC surgical strike in September 2016 to silence the terrorist groups at their launchpad sites. The Narendra Modi government and the BJP have tried to take propaganda mileage from this to showcase their capability. But the facts on the ground have sneered at them. In military terminology, a surgical strike is meant to incapacitate the adversary over a long period, but the Pakistan Army-backed terrorists have become even more active.

An official committee to plug loopholes in the defence of the security services camps, set up after the attack on the 15 Corps headquarters at Nagrota on the outskirts of Jammu, has reportedly gathered dust. When questioned about the precipitous fall in the security situation in J&K, leading lights of the ruling party at the Centre routinely speak of the number of terrorists killed in the past year, and insist that the Valley is secure as never before, and speak of Pakistans isolation in the world due to the exertions of the Prime Minister. But the facts on the ground show such assertions to be false, and diversionary.

Speaking in the state Assembly on Monday, chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, whose party is an ally of the BJP in the state, yet again spoke of opening a dialogue with Pakistan, adding the apprehension that she would be labelled anti-national by some television channels for expressing such a view. The standard line trotted out by the Centre is that terror and talks cannot go together. The government believes this makes it look brave even when soldiers and civilians die routinely in terrorist strikes and ceasefire violations by Pakistan and the country watches helplessly. Historically, when there is no political engagement in Kashmir, the security situation tends to deteriorate.The introduction of a 10 per cent tax on capital gains, accruing from the sale of equity, after holding it for at least one year, has generated a great deal of angst. But it is unconscionable that stock market investors who have earned windfall gains of 30 per cent over the past year should mind paying three percentage points out of that windfall as tax. The government has gone further and grandfathered from the tax all equity-related capital gains accruing till January 31  the day prior to the Budget 2018-19 proposals being made public. The stock market slid by about six per cent thereafter. Future gains will depend upon better profitability in Indian corporates; the options for alternative risk-free returns in developed markets (US treasuries, for example, which are likely to have higher spreads) and growth in India. The tax is not onerous in the present context. But at the heart of the discontent is a corrosive aversion to pay tax, even by the very wealthy. There are good reasons why we are habitual benders of the rule of law.

To find the reason for this national shame, look no further than our political leaders. The Election Commission turns a Nelsons eye to the yawning gap between actual election expenditures and the income of parties on the books. The recently introduced Election Bonds are unlikely to bring about a transformative reform.

No crony capitalist wants to be identified while buying these bonds from designated banks. Privacy of information arrangements are easily breached, to ferret out who contributed how much to which party. Demonetisation did throw up big data on the ownership of cash. But following up on suspected tax evaders is quite another matter. The options of bribing their way out or legally delaying a final decision reduces the incentive to respect the rule of law. We are then back to square one. During the demonetisation of November 2016, the bulk of the cash came back into the banking system, because tax evaders innovated, on the fly, to escape the tax net. No wonder then, that the tax revenue at the Central level is stuck at just below 12 per cent of GDP with an additional 10 per cent in the states and local governments. The conundrum is that higher growth needs higher public spends of around 6-8 per cent of GDP on infrastructure, health and education. India has underinvested in these for decades. The real problem is that tax revenues are difficult to increase with 40 per cent of the population being either poor or vulnerable to fall into poverty.

China had the same problem. Their solution was to decentralise development decision-making within a broad party line of priorities. Local government and local party offices worked together to monetise government assets  principally land  for private development projects. The proceeds from such monetisation generated the resources to finance infrastructure and increase spending on health and education. Without a doubt, the dynamics of working with the private sector also lined the pockets of party and government officials. But both were held to account if there were failures in achieving development targets. The good news is that India is changing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made chai vendors respectable. Our next Prime Minister may do the same for pakora sellers  much derided today by some, who look down their noses, at anything but formal sector jobs. But Shekhar Shah, director-general of NCAER, a New Delhi economics think tank, cautions that formalisation, China style, can be a double-edged sword.

Yes, formalisation does improve work conditions and facilitates production at scale. But it takes away from rewarding livelihoods for people in the bottom 40 per cent with traditional or low-level skills. President Kagame of Rwanda  till recently a darling of donors, because of his rapid adoption and implementation of the doing business type of performance metrics  runs a spotlessly clean capital, Kigali, with neat markets. But this is at the expense of street vendors who were priced out by the prohibitive cost of a licence. We need to innovate, to increase government revenue, without trying to copy China. The 15th Finance Commission could be crucial in tweaking the transfer of resources to states and local government in a way which incentivises them to generate more local revenues. That is where a significant contribution to aggregate government taxes can be made, as suggested by the Economic Survey 2018-19.

The mantra for government spending is simple. Big ticket public development spending (both revenue and capital) must generate at least a similar level of private investment as extra-budgetary resources. Funding the premia for providing health insurance to 100 million poor families is one such scheme which can change mindsets and provide the forums for productive collaborations between the Central and state governments and the private sector. There is enough fat hidden away in the 2018-19 Budget to fund the scheme. A ready market already exists  in urban and peri-urban areas, covering around 40 million poor families, as private hospitals are accessible. With an annual premia amount of Rs 20,000 crores, a similar sum as private investment can be leveraged in new healthcare facilities. Insurance companies, which will enjoy the bonanza of publicly-funded premia, will need to work with the healthcare industry to enlarge access to hospital facilities in under-covered areas. Similar state-level health insurance schemes should be allowed to lapse. States should divert their funds instead, to primary care, nutrition and public health. The government must, in a sequenced manner, pull out of the business of direct provisioning of services, except in disaster situations. Central, state and local governments must learn to use the power of public finance to leverage private capital and management. A big push for outsourcing public services might be the only way to fill the financing gap between aspirations and todays sordid reality.'A 214m (234-yard) exclusion zone has been implemented as a precaution by the Met Police. As a result, London City Airport is currently closed,' the airport said in a statement. (Photo: Twitter | ANI | Representational)

London: London City Airport announced its closure on Sunday after a World War 2 bomb was discovered in the nearby River Thames.

The ordnance was discovered in King George V Dock, close to the runway of London's most central airport, during planned works.

"A 214m (234-yard) exclusion zone has been implemented as a precaution by the Met Police. As a result, London City Airport is currently closed," the airport said in a statement.

Travellers were told to avoid the airport; "All passengers due to travel from London City on Monday are advised to contact their airline for further information."

City Airport operates short-haul flights and is located in east London, close to the Canary Wharf business district.

The Metropolitan Police said the discovery was reported before dawn on Sunday, at around 0500 GMT, and the exclusion zone was put in place at 2200 GMT.

The decision was taken "to ensure that the ordnance can be safely dealt with whilst limiting any risk to the public," police said in a statement.

The unexploded ordnance is being dealt with by specialist police officers working alongside the Royal Navy.

Thousands of bombs were dropped on London during the "Blitz" by German Air Forces between September 1940 and May 1941.Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday met with industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business. (Photo: Twitter/ @MEAIndia)

Muscat: Narendra Modi Monday met with industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business.

Modi, who arrived here Sunday from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, also met Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman, Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

The two leaders discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

4 countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership. pic.twitter.com/98IHC7CIGH  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 12, 2018

In his meeting with Deputy PM for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman, HH Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said, PM @narendramodi discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest. #ExtendedNeighbourhood pic.twitter.com/oeIJT0JsG8  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 12, 2018

"Four countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership," Kumar said.

Later, the prime minister will visit the historic Shiva Temple of Muscat. The temple is one of the oldest of the region and is located in the Matrah area near Sultans Palace.

The temple was constructed 125 years back by Merchant Community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

The temple has three deities -- Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

He will also visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before heading back to Delhi.Though Rohingya have always been persecuted in the country, it got much worse after 2012, when violence in Rakhine killed hundreds and drove about 140,000 people, most of them Rohingya, from their homes to camps. (Photo: File)

Yangon: For four straight days in January, Rahim Muddinn watched, amazed, as Myanmar's state-run newspapers published special supplements showing Rohingya Muslims accused of being terrorists nearly 250 photos each day.

For the 41-year-old Rohingya man, it was a surreal moment. He was born and raised in Yangon, Myanmar's biggest city and far from the western state of Rakhine, where bloody military operations that followed Rohingya militant attacks in August have driven nearly 700,000 Rohingya into refugee camps in Bangladesh.

Also Read: Widows only camp: Rohingya women in Bdesh find solidarity, peace without men

"When we first saw those pictures, we started laughing. We wondered: When will it be our turn to have our pictures in the paper?" Muddinn, a teacher, said in an interview in his Yangon home.

Behind the laughter, though, there is genuine fear.

The pictures are the latest in a series of chilling realizations for the Rohingya minority here.

Though Yangon's tree-lined boulevards and weathered colonial architecture seem a world away from the rice paddies and isolated villages of Rakhine let alone the tarp-walled huts of the teeming refugee camps the government is increasingly linking Rohingya across the country with what it calls a terrorist threat, Muddinn and others say.

Rohingya in Yangon describe a sense of rising persecution and hatred, of vanishing freedoms and opportunities, of Buddhist neighbours and friends suddenly more willing to publicly express sympathies with the military's destruction of Rohingya villages in Rakhine.

Also Read: Discovery of Rohingya mass graves has US deeply, deeply troubled

"One day it really could be my picture in the paper," said Muddinn. Like most of the other Rohingya who spoke with The Associated Press, he used his Rohingya name because of safety worries. "I do have anxiety. The government can detain anyone it says is a supporter of terrorism or anyone viewed as a threat to the state."

Though Rohingya have always been persecuted in the country, it got much worse after 2012, when violence in Rakhine killed hundreds and drove about 140,000 people, most of them Rohingya, from their homes to camps.

Violence flared again in 2016 and, most dramatically, following the August attacks, when refugees report widespread killing and rape by Myanmar forces.

The AP in January confirmed, through extensive interviews with survivors and time-stamped video, a massacre and at least five mass graves, all previously unreported, in the Rakhine village of Gu Dar Pyin.

Many Rohingya have been in Myanmar for generations, but, increasingly, the government and media have played up their claim that they're not citizens but "illegal Bengali interlopers" who entered Myanmar from Bangladesh with the help of corrupt immigration officers.

There are non-Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, and they often report rising discrimination, especially those in Rakhine. But generally their situation is less precarious than the Rohingya.

Myanmar's government denies discriminating against Rohingya and other Muslims.Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today said the state government is preparing a plan to open cowsheds to tackle the problem of stray cows.



Laying the foundation stone of Mahamana "Gau Gram" scheme in Vrindavan for the development of 108 villages, he said, "To overcome the problem farmers are facing due to stray cows, the government is preparing a plan for opening gaushalas in a phased manner."

He said Minister for Dairy Development Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary has been raising the issue of stray cows at every Cabinet meeting.

Initially, cowsheds would be opened in urban areas and then it would be opened at tehsils and villages, the chief minister said, and asked people to support such cowsheds.

"We have saved cows from slaughter and now we will find a way for their proper rearing," he said.

Asserting that the state government would provide assistance for opening new cowsheds, Adityanath said a plan is on the offing to provide to every farmer two high milk- yielding cows of indigenous breed.

Efforts would be made for affordable cow rearing by making provisions to sell its urine and cow dung.

Hasanand Gochar Seva Trust would set up a gaushala (cowshed) to accommodate 10,000 cows, an office bearer of Mahamana "Gau Gram" scheme said.

A plan is also offing to set up a modern milk plant in the "Gau Gram", he said.Pakistan today rejected allegations that it was involved in the terror attack on Sunjwan Army camp, saying Indian media and officials make "irresponsible" statements even before any investigation is initiated.



The Foreign Office spokesperson also accused India of carrying out a "smear campaign against Pakistan and the deliberate creation of war hysteria."

"It is a well-established pattern that Indian officials begin making irresponsible statements and levelling unfounded allegations, even before any proper investigation in any incident has been initiated," the Foreign Office spokesperson said, when asked about the attack on Sunjwan Army camp in Jammu.

"A particular segment in the Indian media runs with their innuendos to malign Pakistan and whips up public frenzy. We are confident that the world community would take due cognisance of India's smear campaign against Pakistan, and the deliberate creation of war hysteria," the spokesperson said.

A group of heavily armed Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in the early hours yesterday, triggering a gunbattle.

Security forces have neutralised three terrorists holed up in the Army camp while six people, including five Army personnel, were killed in the attack.

The latest attack on the camp took place nearly 15 months after the Jammu region was hit by a similar attack.

On November 29, 2016, terrorists had stormed the Army's Nagrota camp on the outskirts of the city, killing seven Army personnel, including two officers. Three terrorists were gunned down in the operation.

Intelligence inputs had warned of an attack on an Army or security establishment by Jaish-e-Mohammed in view of the death anniversary of Afzal Guru, who was hanged on February 9, 2013, for the 2001 attack on Parliament House.The army said on Monday that a search operation is underway in Sunjwan camp in Jammu, as one militant was still holed up inside the compound, three days after an attack left 10 people dead.

"One militant is still holed up inside the camp and efforts are on to neutralise him," a defence ministry official was quoted by local media as having said.

Five soldiers, three militants and one civilian have lost their lives, so far, in the operation which erupted at 4.55 am on Saturday after an unknown number of fidayeen (suicide) militants, stormed the army camp on the outskirts of Jammu city.

Ten people, including Lt Col Rohit Solanki and Major Avijit Singh of 6th Mahar regiment, women and children, were also injured in the gun battle, as elite IAF commandos flanked by armoured vehicles continued their searches in the sprawling compound on the third day on Monday.

Reports said several blasts were heard inside the camp late on Sunday night, but the army said the blasts were the result of sanitisation operation and there was no fresh contact with terrorists.

Meanwhile, Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) spokesperson Abdullah Ghaznavi in a statement to a local news gathering agency GNS claimed the responsibility for the Sunjwan attack.

"Despite the claims of 'Operation All Out' by Ajit Doval, Rajnath Singh, Narendra Modi and (Gen) Bipin Rawat, the Indian forces are biting the dust, be it in the form of bullets by freedom fighters or stones thrown at them by people," the GNS quoted the LeT spokesperson as saying.

The LeT also claimed responsibility for the Karan Nagar attack in Srinagar.

"The freedom fighters of Lashkar-e-Taiba continue to seize control of the stronghold in Karan Nagar (Srinagar). If India has any guts to face the Mujahideen, we invite you to fight! But we believe that it is the worst coward military army in the world," it claimed.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met with industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business.



Modi, who arrived here on Sunday from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, also met Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman, Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

The two leaders discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

"Four countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership," Kumar said.

Later, the prime minister will visit the historic Shiva Temple of Muscat. The temple is one of the oldest of the region and is located in the Matrah area near Sultans Palace.

The temple was constructed 125 years back by the merchant community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

The temple has three deities - Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

He will also visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before heading back to Delhi.BJP president Amit Shah on Monday asserted that the BJP would form the next government in Tripura which would be the 20th state to be ruled by the saffron party.



Shah assured the voters that the promises made in the party's election manifesto released on Sunday would be implemented.

"Seeing the atmosphere and campaigns after visiting various constituencies, I am rest assured that the BJP would form the next government in Tripura and it would be the 20th BJP-ruled state," Shah told a news conference here.

"The party neither had MLAs in Manipur and Assam nor a strong organisational base, yet the huge popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP's programme brought the party in power in those two north eastern states," he said.

Likewise, Tripura also would come to the BJP fold, he said.

The Left front has been ruling the state for nearly 25 years continuously but Tripura lags behind in distribution of drinking water to households, healthcare services, power supply, infrastructure and attracting investments, he said.

The CPM-led Left front is in power in the Northeastern state in a row since 1993. The Left was also in power between 1978 and 1988.

"Ten years and 25 years is quite a long time for developing the state. But Tripura remained backward. There are many BJP-ruled states which could make much more development in lesser time," he said.

Development would come only after the saffron party formed the next government, Shah said.

He claimed that crime against women in Tripura is the highest in the country with rape and molestation being an everyday event.

CPM cadres dictate terms to the police and government officials and law and order has collapsed, the senior BJP leader claimed.

But after seeing the rise of the BJP in the state, they were frustrated and resorted to violence against the BJP workers and leaders, he alleged.

"The BJP workers are ready to face the CPM violence anywhere in the state," he said and appealed to police and government officials to work impartially.

Criticising Opposition Congress, Shah said the party was trying to divide the anti-Left votes in the state for favouring CPM, but that would not work.

He said Union Finance minister Arun Jaitely on Sunday published the manifesto of the party which promised that special economic zone (SEZ) would be set up in the state and smartphones would be given to the youth for free if the saffron party is elected to power.

Election to the 60-member Tripura Assembly would be held on February 18.

The BJP is contesting in 51 seats, while its alliance partner Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) has fielded candidates in nine seats.The RSS came out with a statement saying news reports misrepresented its chief Mohan Bhagwat's comments on the Indian Army and the RSS.



As Congress president Rahul Gandhi attacked the RSS chief, Sangh spokesperson Manmohan Vaidya said Bhagwat's address in Bihar's Muzaffarpur is being represented incorrectly.

Bhagwat was quoted as saying that while the army would take "six months" to raise a force to fight a war, the RSS could do the same in a matter of "three days".

Vaidya said this is not what Bhagwat actually said.

"What Bhagwat actually said was that if a situation so arises, and if the Constitution allows it, the Indian Army would take six months to prepare the general population for war while the army could prepare [the RSS'] swayamsevaks in three days because the swayamsevaks are highly disciplined," he clarified.

"Bhagwat's comparison was not with the army but between swayamsevaks and the general population," Vaidya said.

"Both [RSS' swayamsevaks and the general population] would have to be prepared by the army itself," he added.

The RSS also attached a video of Bhagwat's speech with its short statement.

Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, too, defended the RSS chief, saying Bhagwat had simply said that it "takes six to seven months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has [sic] the ability to contribute".

Rijiju, in his tweet, also hit out at the Congress. "In emergency situation (not Congress emergency) [sic] every Indian must volunteer to stand with Defence Forces," Rijiju said.

"Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our army," Rahul Gandhi had tweeted on Monday morning, using the hashtag #ApologiseRSS.

He claimed that the RSS chief's speech on Sunday is "an insult to every Indian because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it."

Critics said Bhagwat made his comments even as the army was engaged in a massive operation in Jammu and Kashmir to flush out terrorists who sneaked into a military camp and killed five soldiers and a civilian and injured 11.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said his visit to Oman and talks with the oil-rich Gulf nation's top leadership will impart a "substantial momentum" to all spheres of bilateral ties.



"This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come," Modi tweeted before concluding his two-day visit to Oman during which the two countries signed eight agreements, including one on enhancing defence cooperation.

"This visit has helped in building upon the centuries-old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations," Modi said.

"Thank you Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos (bin Said al Said) for your exceptional warmth, hospitality and friendship, as also your personal attention to details, that made my visit to Oman one of the most memorable visits I have undertaken anywhere," the prime minister said.

Modi also expressed gratitude to the Sultan and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection.

"We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman," he said as he concluded his three-nation visit to the Palestine, the UAE and Oman.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the final leg of his three-nation tour, led talks with Sultan Qaboos on Sunday night on a wide range of issues.

During the meeting, several aspects of the existing cooperation between the two countries and means of promoting the good relations between them were discussed, the official Oman News Agency reported.

"Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of "honest and hard working" Indian nationals in the development of Oman.

After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation. According to Oman News Agency, it envisages the services of Duqm Port and dry-dock for maintenance for Indian military vessels.

Secretary-General of Oman's Ministry of Defence Mohammed bin Nasser al Rasbi said there are many areas of cooperation with the Indian side, whether in the field of joint exercises, training or courses, as well as exchange of experiences between the two sides and some defence purchases and projects.

India's Ambassador Indra Man Pandey said that signing the MoUs will promote cooperation between the two friendly countries.

He said that the Indian companies have a strong presence in Oman and have significant investments in the Omani free zones and ports in Suhar and Salalah.

He said Indian investments are estimated $1.8 billion in two projects in Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZD).

The volume of trade exchange during this year is expected to reach $5.5 billion, Pandey was quoted as saying.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

Modi on Monday met Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

Modi and the two leaders exchanged views on intensifying ties in the areas of energy, trade and investment, food security, defence and security, mining and other sectors.

He also had a meeting with leading business leaders and investors.

Modi also offered prayers at the 125-year-old Shiva Temple, one of the oldest in the region. He also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque in Oman.

In Oman, there are over 8 lakh Indians and they constitute the largest expatriate community. The prime minister had also addressed the Indian community on Sunday night.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.Hundreds of Boko Haram suspects were due back in court Monday to hear if they will be prosecuted, sentenced or released, as proceedings resumed at a military base in central Nigeria.



The first major prosecutions of people arrested during the insurgency began last October, involving 1,669 suspects held at the facility in Kainji, Niger state.

The justice ministry has said 468 were released after it was found they had no case to answer; 45 were sentenced to between two and 15 years in jail; and 28 had their cases transferred.

A further 82 pleaded guilty in exchange for a lesser prison sentence or release taking into account time served in custody.

The remainder have had their cases adjourned pending further investigations.

Nigeria's government banned the media and public from attending the trials, leading to criticism from the UN and human rights groups.

But the justice ministry said the second phase of proceedings would now be open to some civil society groups, including human rights organisations and the media.

Nigeria's military has been accused of arbitrarily arresting civilians and holding them for years on end without access to lawyers.

Conditions have been described as overcrowded and unsanitary, while detainees have allegedly been tortured, died from illness or disease or were summarily executed.

Nearly nine years of conflict have left at least 20,000 dead and forced 2.6 million others from their homes, triggering a humanitarian crisis across the region.In the early 1900s, ornithologist Frank M Chapman, from the National Audubon Society, USA, proposed a new holiday tradition - the 'Christmas Bird Census', encouraging people to count birds during the holidays than hunt them. Today, over 117 years later, the Christmas Bird Count is one of the most successful citizen science projects. This data led to Audubon's 2014 Climate Change Report that indicates that 314 species of North American birds will lose more than 50% of their current range by 2080 due to climate change.



So, why is citizen science so important? How does it benefit busy urban folks? Is there a value to contributions made by 'amateur experts'? For starters, it is a win-win situation. Most citizen science projects offer urban dwellers the opportunity to use their phones for the project and work closer to nature. Here are two such interesting projects coming up that will provide urban dwellers a chance to contribute to scientific inquiry and progress in a meaningful manner.

Roadkills.in is an initiative that collects data on mortality of animals on roads and railway lines in India. This initiative, which was started by the Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT), aims to engage citizens across the country. All you have to do is record events of roadkill of animals and upload the image with necessary details on the app. On its website, WCT elucidates why your help matters, "We hope that the data collected will be useful to researchers and road planners across the country to help in reducing wildlife mortality, install wildlife crossing structures and also improve passenger safety whenever a road is planned or upgraded."

"This one time, we counted off a good 15. If our observations and documentation can help wild animals, I would be more than happy to contribute. It's just depressing to see all this mortality and feel so helpless," says Priya R, a nature enthusiast based in Bengaluru.

Great Backyard Bird Count

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) India is the Indian implementation of the global Great Backyard Bird Count, which runs for four days every February. Indian birders have participated in the GBBC since 2013. GBBC India, coordinated by the Bird Count India collective, strives to use the data to answer a variety of important questions, including how birds are distributed across the country, how they are affected by changes in habitat and weather, and whether populations and distributions might be changing from year to year.

GBBC India has been gaining popularity and has witnessed several people contributing to the cause since its inception. The 2016 edition of the GBBC engaged over 1,100 birders who uploaded over 7,900 lists and reported 785 species. Similarly, last year's edition also saw participation from various birders, amateurs and professionals. According to the data released by GBBC, in 2017, over 1,500 participants spent close to 8,000 hours birding, uploaded 12,000 lists and recorded 825 species.

Dr Ullas Karanth, a wildlife biologist and senior conservation scientist, explains further, "Citizen science, if appropriately practiced, can - in addition to gathering high-quality data - channel energies of youth fascinated by wildlife into effective local conservation actions." As Margaret Mead once said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Well, here is your chance to be a part of the solution and fight the battle against the current extinction crisis, at the same time gain valid knowledge on the subject matter. Join the movement.Every night during breeding season, the male tAngara frog of Central America will stake out a performance patch in the local pond and spend unbroken hours broadcasting his splendour to the world. The mud-brown frog is barely the size of a shelled pecan, but his call is large and dynamic, a long downward sweep that sounds remarkably like a phaser weapon on Star Trek, followed by a brief, twangy, harmonically dense chuck.



Unless, that is, a competing male starts calling nearby, in which case the first frog is likely to add two chucks to the tail of his sweep. And should his rival respond likewise, Male A will tack on three chucks. Back and forth they go, call and raise, until the frogs appear to hit their respiratory limit at six to seven rapid-fire chucks. The acoustic one-upfrogship is energetically draining and risks attracting predators like bats. Yet, the male frogs have no choice but to keep count of the competition, for the simple reason that female tAngaras are doing the same: listening, counting and ultimately mating with the male of maximum chucks.

Neuro-abacus

Behind the frog's surprisingly sophisticated number sense, scientists have found, are specialised cells located in the amphibian midbrain that tally up sound signals and the intervals between them. "The neurons are counting the number of appropriately timed pulses, and they're highly selective," said Gary Rose, a biologist at the University of Utah, USA. If the timing between pulses is off by just a fraction of a second, the neurons don't fire and the counting process breaks down. "It's game over," Gary said. "Just as in human communication, an inappropriate comment can end the whole conversation."

The story of the frog's neuro-abacus is just one example of nature's vast, ancient and versatile number sense, a talent explored in detail in a recent themed issue of the journal Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, edited by Brian Butterworth, a cognitive neuroscientist at University College London, C Randy Gallistel of Rutgers University, and Giorgio Vallortigara of the University of Trento, Italy.

Scientists have found that animals across the evolutionary spectrum have a keen sense of quantity, able to distinguish not just bigger from smaller or more from less, but two from four, four from 10, 40 from 60. Orb-weaving spiders, for example, keep a tally of how many silk-wrapped prey items are stashed in the 'larder' segment of their web. When scientists experimentally remove the cache, the spiders will spend time searching for the stolen goods in proportion to how many separate items had been taken, rather than how big the total prey mass might have been.

Small fish benefit from living in schools, and the more numerous the group, the statistically better a fish's odds of escaping predation. As a result, many shoaling fish are excellent appraisers of relative head counts. Guppies, for example, have a so-called contrast ratio of 0.8, which means they can distinguish at a glance between four guppies and five, or eight guppies and 10, and if given the chance will swim towards the slightly fishier crowd.

Three-spined sticklebacks are more discriminating still: with a contrast ratio of 0.86, they're able to tell six fellow fish from seven, or 18 from 21 - a comparative power that many birds, mammals and even humans might find hard to beat. Despite the prevalence of math phobia, people too are born with a strong innate number sense, and numerosity is deeply embedded in many aspects of our minds and culture. Researchers have determined that number words for small quantities - less than five - are strikingly similar across virtually every language group studied.

They are more conserved through time and across cultures than words for other presumably bedrock concepts like mother, father and most body parts, with a few puzzling exceptions like the words for tongue and eye.

Social scorekeepers

Attitudes about animal numerosity have changed greatly since the mid-20th century when many researchers believed only humans had enough grey matter to think quantitatively. They cited as an object lesson the 1907 case of Clever Hans, the horse that supposedly could solve arithmetic problems and would tap out his answers by hoof; as it turned out, he was responding to unconscious cues from the people around him. Since then, researchers have approached the field with caution and rigour, seeking to identify the specific evolutionary pressures that might spur the need for numeric judgments in any given species.

Social carnivores like spotted hyenas, for example, live in fission-fusion societies, collectively defending their territories against rivals but in ever-shifting groups of widely roaming members. Sarah Benson-Amram, an assistant professor of zoology and physiology at the University of Wyoming, USA and her colleagues tested hyena numerosity skills in the field, playing back the recorded whoops of spotted hyenas living in South Africa and Namibia to hyenas in Kenya. The Kenyan carnivores reacted to the whoops of strangers as predicted, approaching the hidden source of the sound when they had a home team advantage, retreating when they heard a few too many distinctive voices in a row. Or sometimes, when the local hyenas were outnumbered, they'd call for backup.

Chimpanzees are social scorekeepers, episodic warriors and number ninjas, too. They can be taught to associate groups of objects with corresponding Arabic numerals up to the number 9 and sometimes beyond. They can put those numerals in order. The numeric working memory of young chimpanzees is astonishing: flash a random scattering of numerals on a screen for just 210 milliseconds and then cover the numbers with white squares, and a numerically schooled young chimpanzee will touch the squares sequentially to indicate the ascending order of the numbers hidden beneath.

Don't bother trying to do this yourself, Tetsuro Matsuzawa, a primatologist at Kyoto University, said at the scientific meeting in London on which the themed journal was based. "You can't." By the look of it, cerebral property in humans once dedicated to numeric memory has, in the six million years since we diverged from chimpanzees, been co-opted for grander purposes, like the ability to judge whether a sentence like this is true: "There is no non-vanishing continuous tangent vector field on even dimensional spheres."Citing prima facie evidence, a special court on Monday summoned former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh, his wife and three other accused in a Rs 7 crore money laundering case.



Special Judge Santosh Snehi Mann asked the accused to appear before the court on March 22. Besides Singh (83) and his 62-year-old wife Pratibha Singh, the court summoned Universal Apple Associate owner Chunni Lal Chauhan and two other co-accused, Prem Raj and Lawan Kumar Roach.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had chargesheeted Singh, accusing him of projecting around Rs 7 crore "proceeds of crime" as agricultural income in connivance with his wife and others and invested them in purchasing LIC policies. A Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) agent Anand Chauhan was also chargesheeted by the ED earlier and was granted bail on January 2.

Tainted money

According to the ED charge sheet, the proceeds of crime acquired by Singh were projected as agricultural income with the help of the LIC agent and Chunni Lal Chauhan. It was invested in insurance policies purchased in the name of Singh and his family members and a major part of it, after criss-crossing through various bank accounts, was used for acquisition of immovable property, it said.

The "proceeds of crime generated through criminal activities" were managed by the LIC agent, who assisted him in laundering it by projecting it as untainted.

The CBI has also filed a case against Singh and others in the case and filed a charge sheet. The other accused are facing trial in the CBI case.The Congress on Monday went all guns blazing against RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for suggesting that his cadre were better prepared than the army and demanded an apology.



Congress president Rahul Gandhi fired the first salvo dubbing Bhagwat's remarks as an "insult" to every Indian and the national tricolour and disrespectful towards the army.

"The RSS chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our army," Rahul said on Twitter.

Youth Congress activists took out a march to the RSS office in Jhandewalan area in central Delhi to protest against Bhagwat's remarks.

Addressing a meeting in Muzzafarpur, Bihar, on Sunday,Bhagwat had said the RSS has the ability to prepare an "army" to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises.

As the remarks triggered a controversy, the RSS issued a statement saying Bhagwat's comments were misrepresented.

Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma hit out at Bhagwat and wanted a clarification from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Such statements, particularly at a time when an army camp is under terror attack, are objectionable. These remarks are a direct insult to the Indian tricolour and the army," Sharma told a press conference here.

He demanded a clarification from the prime minister on whether the government was thinking of handing over national security to the RSS other than the Indian Army.

"Nothing could be more insulting. We as a democracy cannot allow any organisation and institution to be given any space when it comes to national defence," he said.

The Congress' cyber warriors took to social media to hit out at Bhagwat and the RSS.At a time when security forces are battling with Pakistan-sponsored militants at multiple fronts, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday advocated for Indo-Pak dialogue to "end the bloodshed".

"Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed (in J&K). I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesn't matter," she tweeted.

"The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option," Mehbooba added.

The chief minister's assertions comes at a time when security forces are fighting against holed up fidayeen (suicide) militants in the twin cities of Jammu and Srinagar as well as unending ceasefire violations by Pakistan on the borders.

Later in the day, Mehbooba while speaking in the state Assembly, hit out at some media houses for labelling those favouring dialogues with Pakistan as "anti-nationals."

"Unfortunately, some media houses have created an atmosphere that if we talk of dialogue (with Pakistan) then we are labelled anti-national," she said.

"How long will we make sacrifices? How long will we bear the brunt of this violence? Why do they call [National Conference chief] Farooq Abdullah or me 'anti-nationals' when we propose dialogue," the chief minister asked.

"Wars since 1947 have not resolved the problem. War is no option for us," she said.

While Mehbooba's People's Democratic Party (PDP) and Opposition National Conference (NC) are on the same page on the issues of talks with Pakistan and separatists, PDP's coalition partner, the BJP, has a different view.FinTech company Lendingkart Technologies on Monday announced that it is raising over Rs 565 crore ($87 million) of equity funding in its Series C.



The round is being led by Singapore's Fullerton Financial Holdings Pte Ltd, along with participation from existing investors.

With this new round of funding, Lendingkart Group's cumulative equity and debt raising will exceed Rs 1,129 crore ($173 million). The funds from this round will enable Lendingkart Group to further strengthen its technological and analytics capabilities. The Group also aims to expand its credit product offerings to deepen its reach to small enterprises and reach out to underserved micro enterprises, a company release said.

Harshvardhan Lunia, Co-Founder and CEO of Lendingkart Technologies, said, "We are excited to have Fullerton Financial Holdings join us on our growth journey. We are pleased to collaborate with Fullerton as they bring deep domain experience in the rapidly growing financial services space in India and globally."

GAN Chee Yen, CEO of Fullerton Financial Holdings said, "We are pleased with the opportunity to deepen our exposure in India's rapidly growing financial services market. Today, we are witnessing the rapid advancement and adoption of technological innovation in India. We believe that the deployment of technology to develop scalable and accessible financial services platforms, incorporating big data analytics and machine learning, will be critical to any lending business serving the underbanked and underserved customers in India. We are committed to supporting Lendingkart Group on its journey to become a leading digital lender in India. "

Lendingkart Group has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Fullerton India Capital Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of FFH regarding possible opportunities and initiatives to support their respective businesses.

Since its inception, Lendingkart Finance (the NBFC arm of Lendingkart Group) has evaluated more than 1,00,000 applications, disbursed over 20,000 loans in more than 950 cities, helping more than 13,000 SMEs across 23 diverse sectors.The BJP-NDPP coalition will not come in the way of "smooth implementation" of the proposed Naga accord, if voted to power in Nagaland, Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju Said today.



He, however, was non-committal when asked if it meant that the new government would recommend the dissolution of the Nagaland Assembly to pave the way for implementation of the accord, if necessary.

"Our party and the government, if elected, will not come in the way of the smooth implementation of the Naga accord as and when it is signed. Rather we will cooperate," he told PTI here.

Rijiju is the BJP's election in-charge for Nagaland.

He said, in fact, no political party will come in the way of implementation of the final peace deal with the Naga insurgent group NSCN(IM), and this has been conveyed to all concerned in Nagaland.

When asked whether his comments meant a BJP-NDPP government, if formed after the February 27 polls, will recommend dissolution of the new Assembly and recommend fresh election, if necessary, Rijiju said it was not possible for him to comment on the issue.

He said it was a subject to be discussed and decided by the MLAs.

The minister said the central government was committed to an honourable solution to the seven-decade-old insurgency in the northeastern state, which is be acceptable to all.

Under the aegis of the Core Committee of the Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations (CCNTHCO), several political parties in Nagaland had initially decided not to contest Assembly elections and demanded their deferment till the time the issue was resolved.

Civil society groups in Nagaland had also launched a campaign 'Solution before Election'.

Not a single nomination was filed till the penultimate day of filing of papers on February 6 when first batch of 22 nominations were submitted after parties softened their stand.

The central government has already rejected one of the key demands of the NSCN(IM)-- integration of the Naga inhabited areas of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Manipur--into Nagaland, a very sensitive issue for the three northeastern states. BJP is in power in the three states, which were opposed to the demand.

Manipur had seen massive protests in 2001 after the then NDA government signed a ceasefire agreement with the NSCN-IM 'without territorial limits'. After the protests, the central government was forced to decide that the ceasefire will be applicable only in Nagaland.

Last month, after the publication of a reported draft pact allegedly prepared by an RSS leader, suggesting separate authorities to execute development schemes in seven Naga inhabited districts of Manipur, two of Arunachal Pradesh, and one in Assam, violent protests were witnessed in Assam's Dima Hasao, leading to the death of two youths.

Expectations of lasting peace had soared in Nagaland, hit by insurgency for several decades, after the Centre and the NSCN-IM signed a framework agreement in 2015.

The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) has been engaged in peace talks with the Centre's interlocutors since 1997, when it first announced a ceasefire agreement.

During a visit to Nagaland in November 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind had said the state was at the threshold of making history as a final agreement on the Naga political issue would soon be arrived at and lasting peace achieved.Hundreds of students on Monday took to the streets in Allahabad town, pelting stones and torching a bus, to protest the brutal lynching of a Dalit law student by a group of people following an argument at a restaurant.



The students, from Allahabad University and other degree colleges in the city, laid siege to the DM's office demanding immediate arrest of the culprits.

Police sources said processions were taken out by irate mobs of students in different parts of the town. Stones were pelted on passing vehicles and a bus was torched on Bank Road.

Additional security personnel had been rushed to town from nearby areas to maintain order, sources said.

Police said that one of the accused in the murder, a waiter at the restaurant, has been arrested, while a hunt was on to nab three others, one of whom is a railway employee.

The victim, identified as Dileep Kumar Saroj, a student at Allahabad University, was hit repeatedly with belts, sticks and bricks by assailants outside the restaurant on Saturday night.

Saroj, who was rushed to the hospital, succumbed to his injuries on Sunday.

A CCTV at the restaurant captured the entire incident. The footage showed some people repeatedly hitting Saroj with bricks and sticks. The footage showed that the attackers kept hitting Dileep even after he lay prostrate on the ground.

The incident took a political turn when Opposition parties raised the issue in the state Assembly on Monday and accused the BJP government of failing to ensure the safety of Dalits.

BSP supremo Mayawati rushed a party delegation to the native village of the victim and offered financial help.Eight of the 31 Chief Ministers, including Bihar's Nitish Kumar and Delhi's Arvind Kejriwal, in the country have serious criminal charges against them from murder to cheating, while 25 of them are crorepatis, an analysis by a private election watchdog said on Monday.



Nitish, who is considered to be one of the cleanest chief ministers, has one case against him in which he is charged under sections of murder, attempt to murder, rioting and others while Kejriwal has ten cases against him in which there are four serious charges, including that of voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from discharging his duty.

The FIR against Nitish is related to a murder that took place in Bihar's Rally village in November 1991 and four others were also named accused along with the Bihar chief minister. No chargesheet has been filed in the case so far.

Among the chief ministers, Maharashtra's Devendra Fadnavis has the highest number of cases against him - 22, including three charges of serious nature, followed by Kerala's Pinarayi Vijayan who has 11 cases in which one charge is that of a serious nature, according to the report released by Association for Democratic Rights (ADR).

Amarinder Singh of Punjab with four cases against him has the highest number of serious charges against him at 10. Other chief ministers with serious charges are Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh), Raghubar Das (Jharkhand) and K Chandrasekhar Rao (Telagana).

Andhra Pradesh's Chandrababu Naidu, who has three cases against him, is the richest among the chief ministers with 177.48 crore assets followed by Arunachal Pradesh' Pema Khandu (Rs 129.57 crore) and Amarinder Singh (Rs 48.31 crore).

While Karnataka's Siddaramaiah, who has no cases against him, is ranked sixth in wealth with Rs 13.61 crore assets, the poorest among them is Tripura's Manik Sarkar, who is seeking re-election, with Rs 26.83 lakh assets. West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee (Rs 30.54 lakh) and Jammu and Kashmir's Mehbooba Mufti (Rs 55.96 lakh), who has a defamation case against her, are other poor chief ministers.

Besides Banerjee and Mufti, Rajasthan's Vasundhara Raje is the only other woman chief minister in the country but she is richer than her counterparts with assets worth Rs 4.04 crore. Khandu at 35 years is the youngest chief minister while Amarinder is the oldest at 74 years.India on Monday promised its support to Uzbekistan to host a ministerial conference to discuss ways to end the conflict in Afghanistan.



External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj hosted Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov in New Delhi. "Relationship deep rooted in History! EAM @SushmaSwaraj hosted Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Abdulaziz Kamilov for the bilateral meeting. The two FMs exchanged views on expanding bilateral and multilateral cooperation," Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, posted on Twitter.

Kamilov briefed Sushma about Uzbek Government's initiative to host a ministerial conference on the situation in conflict-ravaged Afghanistan late March.

The Tashkent Conference on Afghanistan on 'Peace Process, Security Cooperation and Regional Connectivity' is likely to be attended by the ministers of several nations.The Supreme Court on Monday questioned how a convicted person, barred from contesting elections, can be permitted to form a political party and choose electoral nominees.



The top court said a criminal deciding who the people should vote for goes against the basic tenet of democracy.

A three-judge bench presided over by Chief Justice Dipak Misra posed the query to the government on a plea filed by BJP leader and advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay.

"If he (a convicted person) can't contest, how can he form a political party and select candidates to contest election? What you can't do individually, you can't be permitted to do collectively or through your agents," the bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said.

"This goes against our judgement that corruption has to be ostracised from the purity of the election process," the bench added.

Disclosure of crime

The court was referring to the judgement in Krishnamoorthy vs Sivakumar & Ors case on January 21, 2015, delivered by a bench of Justices Dipak Misra and Prafulla C Pant. Among others, the apex court had then held that disclosure of criminal antecedents of a candidate, especially pertaining to heinous or serious offence or offences relating to corruption or moral turpitude, at the time of filing of nomination paper as mandated by law was a categorical imperative.

Appearing for Upadhyay, senior advocate Vikas Singh submitted that it is a question of electoral integrity. Notably, RJD chief Lalu Prasad and Haryana's Indian National Lok Dal supremo Om Prakash Chautala are in jail in corruption cases. Former Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa's aide Sasikala is also behind the bars. All these leaders continued to remain at the helm and enjoyed influence in their parties.

Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, appearing for the Union Government, submitted that the issue also involved a question of fundamental right to form association guaranteed under Article 19(1)(c) of the Constitution. She sought time to file a reply to the petition.

Internal democracy

The court posted the matter for final hearing on March 26. In the instant matter, the Election Commission has already filed a response seeking power to de-register a political party in view of its constitutional mandate, while supporting the plea for decriminalisation of politics and internal democracy.Telecom operator Idea Cellular on Monday said it has raised Rs 3,250 crore by allotting over 32.6 crore shares to the promoter group companies.



"Idea Cellular Limited today (Monday) completed the allotment of 326,633,165 equity shares to the Aditya Birla Group (ABG) entities, at an issue price of Rs 99.50 per share (including premium of Rs 89.50 per share) aggregating to Rs 3,250 crore," Idea said in a statement.

The preferential allotment of equity shares follows the approval by the board of Idea on January 4 for a total capital raise of up to Rs 6,750 crore, which includes raising of Rs 3,250 crore through a preferential allotment to the promoter group.

It would raise another Rs 3,500 crore through a further preferential allotment, qualified institutional placement, rights issue or such other route that the company's board determines.

As a result of this preferential allotment, the aggregate shareholding of the promoter group in Idea has increased from 42.4-47.2%.

"This equity infusion reiterates the group's commitment towards the telecom business and confidence in its growth prospects. With the planned fund raise combined with the recently announced sale of Idea's towers and potential monetisation of the Indus stake, the company will be better capitalised to participate in the growth opportunities offered by the sector," Aditya Birla Group Chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla said.

The equity infusion by the promoter group of Rs 3,250 crore, along with the proposed further capital raise of up to Rs 3,500 crore, will reduce Idea's net-debt and as a result Vodafone's net-debt contribution to the merged entity will also be reduced by an equivalent amount, the company said in a statement.MLC and observer for district Congress V S Ugrappa said that there are all signs of the Congress retaining power, with its inheritance of qualities of ethical and social justice in comparison with the BJP, which has its core in fascist agenda.



Speaking after chairing a meeting at the Congress Bhavan, he said that the party is working out the probable candidates. Four Assembly constituencies in the district have candidates with unanimous support, while Karkala has three ticket aspirants who are supported by their followers.

Ugrappa said former MLA Gopal Bhandary, and Congress leaders Udaya Kumar Shetty and Harsha Moily are the ticket aspirants in Karkala. The matter will be reported to the High Command and the final selection will be decided by the High Command, the chief minister, the KPCCI president and veteran Congress leaders.

Udupi, Kundapur, Byndoor and Kaup Assembly constituencies will have Pramod Madhwaraj, Rakesh Malli, Gopal Poojary and Vinay Kumar Sorake as the contenders respectively. The party has a bright chances to bag all the five constituencies, he added.

Stating that the Congress and the BJP are the main contenders in the forthcoming Assembly elections, Ugrappa said that in some areas of old Mysuru Karnataka, the JD(S) will pose rivalry. "Else, it is only a straight fight between the Congress and the BJP. Following the enormous support that AICC president Rahul Gandhi is receiving in his ongoing tour of North Karnataka, there seems no doubt left over a Congress victory in state," he said.

Censuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his cheap political behaviour despite of being at the helm of affairs, the MLC said the prime minister should behave like a true steersman. "If the Central government finds Congress-led state government as the most useless, then it could have invoked Article 356 against the state governments for impeachment. The prime minister has come down to a low level and his remarks like Nanga Nach itself exemplifies his calibre," criticised Ugrappa.

He also said the BJP and its leader have totally forgotten the slums and the problems encountered by the SC/ST and the farming communities while in power.

He demanded the Central government to reveal the purchase price and other terms and conditions of the Rafale fighter deal with France to clear doubts about the controversial defence contract. "There is no other way out of this and the public should be made aware of this to clear doubts that have cropped up in the minds of people," he said and alleged that Modi is the face of corruption and fake agenda.Union Sanitation and Water Supply Minister Uma Bharti has announced that she will not contest 2019 Lok Sabha polls.



She said she was retiring from active politics due to health reasons. Uma, however, maintained that she will campaign and serve the party.

"I have back and knee problems that have restricted my mobility. I have, therefore, decided not to contest during the 2019 elections," she said at an interaction with reporters in her constituency of Jhansi a day ago.

Uma Bharti, who had earlier represented Khajuraho in Parliament, had never hidden her unhappiness after she was shifted from the Ministry of Ganga Rejuvenation and Water Resources to that of santiation and water supply last year.

In a recent interview, she had said, "I have been wondering why I am not comfortable in politics. There is some discomfort in politics; it has always been there since I became a parliamentarian in 1989. Now I am 58, but I feel I am still not politically settled. Politics is not my forte. If I am given a job, I will do it single-mindedly, but not from a political angle. Even in my Ayodhya andolan, there was no politics, just commitment."

A former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, Uma Bharti had quit the BJP to form her own party in 2005. Six years later, she rejoined the BJP and shifted to Uttar Pradesh's Bundelkhand region for her electoral politics.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday he has been discussing legislation with the United States that would effectively annex settlements in the occupied West Bank, a spokesman said.



"Regarding the issue of applying sovereignty, I can tell you that I have for some time been speaking with the Americans about it," Netanyahu told lawmakers from his Likud party, according to comments relayed by a spokesman.

The move would severely harm remaining prospects for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Netanyahu said he wanted to coordinate any such move with the United States because of the country's strategic importance to Israel.

The comments come as Netanyahu is under pressure from right-wing politicians to move ahead with legislation that would apply Israeli sovereignty to settlements in the West Bank.

Two lawmakers, including one from Netanyahu's party, have proposed legislation to apply Israeli sovereignty to settlements across the West Bank.

Netanyahu blocked it from being advanced on Sunday, with officials citing the need to focus on security issues following a confrontation that led to Israeli air strikes in Syria at the weekend.

Unilateral annexation of settlements would be sure to draw international outrage, though Netanyahu's government has been bolstered by the unstinting support of US President Donald Trump.

Trump recognised Jerusalem as Israel's capital in December in a move praised by Netanyahu as "historic," but denounced by the Palestinians and most of the rest of the world.The Maharashtra government on Monday told the Supreme Court that the PILs for independent probe into the December 1, 2014 death of Mumbai's special judge B H Loya have been filed with an oblique motive to scandalise the judiciary.



The petitions make an innuendo that everything, including transfer of Loya's predecessor, was at the behest of one person (BJP president Amit Shah), it said. "Any inquiry would be playing into political hands," it cautioned.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the state government, contended before a three-judge bench presided over by Chief Justice Dipak Misra that the PILs, including a petition by Bombay Lawyers' Association, were "completely baseless", "bereft of facts" and relied totally on media reports to "sensationalise and scandalise the entire judiciary" over the unfortunate death of the judge more than three years ago.

"A petition cannot be entertained merely on media reports. A flurry of petitions followed in the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court after 'Caravan' magazine's reports in November last, as if they woke up from slumber. None of the petitioners cited any independent facts, and relied upon news reports as gospel truth," he submitted before the bench, also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud.

Questioning the bona fides of the petitioners, Congress sympathiser Tehseen Poonawalla and Maharashtra-based journalist Budhiraj Sambhaji Lone, Rohatgi submitted that they do not have any sympathy either for the judiciary or the judge.

Oblique motive

"They have come with an oblique motive, why did they not question the transfer (of Loya's predecessor) in 2014," he asked. The petitioners have claimed judge Loya's predecessor was transferred against the Supreme Court's direction that the judge should stay till the completion of trial in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh encounter case. BJP chief Amit Shah, who was an accused, was later discharged in the case.

"None of the petitioners have courage to read statements of Additional District Judges who were with Loya from November 29 till December 1," he said. Loya died in Nagpur, where he had gone to attend the marriage ceremony of his colleague's daughter.

The state government also submitted that the petitioners argued as if the apex court was conducting proceedings in a murder appeal. The government also relied upon testimony of four judges in the discreet inquiry by the State Intelligence, wherein they reportedly rejected any claim of foul play in the demise of the judge.The Congress party on Monday accused the NDA government of "misusing" state machinery to mobilise crowds for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rallies in foreign destinations.



Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma accused the Modi government of creating a platform using government agencies and Indian embassies, and incurring huge expenditure on organising the PM's events at Madison Square in New York, Wembley Stadium near London and the recent rally at Muscat in Oman.

Sharma released a copy of a letter purportedly written by India's Ambassador to Oman Indra Mani Pandey to companies in and around Muscat to send their employees for a "mega public event for the Indian community".

"They gave clear directives to the Indian companies to bring their workers, their employees and insulted them by saying that 80% should be blue-collar workers," Sharma said.

The Congress sought an "explanation" from the government on why it had allowed "misuse" of state institutions for "personal promotion or persona of the Prime Minister".

Sharma said following the letter from the Ambassador, the employees had "no option" but to attend the Prime Minister's event.

Modi's 'popular' image

The Congress leader accused Modi of creating an impression that he was "so popular" that all Indians living abroad line up to cheer him.

Sharma also asked Modi to refrain from berating his predecessors and previous governments.

Addressing the Indian diaspora in Muscat on Sunday, Modi had said that India's image had suffered due to a long list of scams under the previous regime and his government had worked hard to change the "style of misgovernance".China on Monday dismissed allegations about its land-grabbing spree in Maldives and claimed that its role in infrastructure and livelihood projects helped spur economy of the Indian Ocean archipelago.



China acknowledged that it had been investing in infrastructure and livelihood projects in Maldives, but refuted allegations of land-grabbing.

"In recent years, on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, China and the Maldives have been cooperating on infrastructure and livelihood projects, which has played a positive role in transforming and upgrading the latter's economy and improving its people's livelihood," Ji Rong, the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi, said in a statement.

The Chinese Embassy in New Delhi issued the statement reacting to former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed's remarks published in a section of media in India, alleging that China had been engaging in land-grabbing in the islands of the Indian Ocean archipelago and thus undermining the security of the Indian Ocean region.

'Groundless'

"These allegations are apparently groundless with no regard to facts," the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi said. "As a matter of fact," it said, "when Nasheed was the president, China and Maldives have already launched relevant cooperation projects. The land-grabbing allegation by Nasheed is apparently meant to serve certain political purposes of him."

China has been investing in infrastructure projects in Maldives over the past few years as part of its efforts to acquire or build strategic assets in the Indian Ocean region.

Beijing's move to expand its geopolitical influence over Maldives strained New Delhi's ties with Male, particularly after current President Abdulla Yameen took over.

Yameen recently sent his Economic Development Minister Mohamed Saeed to Beijing to brief the Chinese government and secure its support for his refusal to abide by the order of the Supreme Court to release all political prisoners, arrest of chief justice of the apex court and declaration of state of emergency in the tiny archipelago.

Nasheed, who is now in exile in Sri Lanka, on the other hand, called for New Delhi's military intervention to end the turmoil in Maldives.

The Chinese Embassy in New Delhi said that the current situation in Maldives was the internal affairs of Maldives and should be properly resolved through dialogue and negotiation by various parties in the country. "We believe the Maldivian government and people have the wisdom and ability to properly handle the problems they face and restore order in the country according to law," the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi said.A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) constable was killed, while a policeman was injured in the ongoing encounter between holed up militants and security forces in Karan Nagar area of Srinagar on Monday.



CRPF PRO Rajesh Yadav said one constable, Mujahid Khan of 49 Battalion, succumbed to his injuries at the site of the encounter.

Earlier, an alert CRPF sentry averted what could have been another attack on a security base in Jammu and Kashmir early Monday by firing at approaching militants, forcing them to flee.

Reports said that two militants, carrying bags and AK-47 rifles, had taken cover inside an abandoned building near the camp of 23 battalion of CRPF at Karan Nagar after an alert sentry spotted them and opened fire around 4.30 am.

Security forces cornered the two militants and were exchanging fire with them.

"Two militants are holed up in the three-storey building, intermittently firing on the security forces. The operation to flush out the militants will continue through the night," Inspector General CRPF Ravideep Shahi said.

Local people said intermittent gunfire and explosions were heard throughout the day. The camp is located just half a kilometre from SMHS hospital, from where a Pakistani terrorist - Naveed Jat alias Abu Hunzullah - escaped from police custody last Tuesday. Two policemen were also killed in that attack.

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), in a statement to news agency GNS, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Serial attacks

The Karan Nagar camp also houses the CRPF's intelligence wing in Kashmir. The latest attack comes just two days after Jaish-e-Mohammad fidayeen (suicide) terrorists attacked Sunjwan Army base in Jammu, in which nine people, including five soldiers, three militants and one civilian were killed. Combing operations were on at the Sunjwan base for the third day on Monday.

Meanwhile, unidentified gunmen killed a separatist activist in Charangam area of Central Kashmir's Budgam district on Monday. In a separate incident, Police said that one of the two persons killed in a road accident in north Kashmir's Sopore area on Monday was a militant.Dismissing reports that the city will be the second metropolis to go dry after Cape Town in South Africa, Bengaluru Development Minister K J George has insisted there will be no water crisis at least until 2030.



"Bengaluru will not face any water crisis. Even in the summer, there will be no problem of drinking water," he said, reacting to a BBC News report entitled 'The 11 cities most likely to run out of drinking water'. Bengaluru is featured second.

The minister said the BBC had not approached the state government for information. The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) would have given the "real picture" had it done so, he added.

According to George, by 2023, Bengaluru will get an additional 775 mld (million litres of water per day) from the 10 tmcft (thousand million cubic feet) allocation from the Cauvery River. The Yettinahole project will provide another 193 mld by 2021, increasing the total supply to 2,368 mld by 2023. This apart, the government is also considering drawing water from the Linganamakki dam across the Sharavathi River. Setting up desalination plants is another option.

BWSSB chairman Tushar Girinath said that even if Bengaluru's population grew to 20 million (two crores), the board's many projects would help it supply water until 2031. The freshwater supply per person will be around 88 litres per day with a water loss of 25%.

The BWSSB has reduced the leakage percentage from 49% to 39% and intends to bring down the percentage of water loss to 25% in the near future. The board is also keeping tabs on other sources of water by imposing penalties for non-installation of rainwater harvesting structures and sewage treatment plants.

The board, however, will not draw water from the Thippgondanahalli reservoir to the city as continuous supply is not guaranteed. The water will be treated and released downstream towards Magadi, he added.

On Bellandur fire

George said the fire on Bellandur Lake was caused by grass, not by the presence of methane as mentioned by T V Ramachandra, a member of the lake expert committee. He said the government hadn't authorised an individual to speak to the media. Any statement should be given only by the committee.

He went on to state that the government was planning to remove the grass around the lake area to avoid future fires.

QUOTES

T V Ramachandra, member, lake expert committee: The report on Bellandur Lake was submitted to the government a year ago. The government took more than six months to just go through it. Government agencies are not fully implementing the recommendations. Being a member of the committee, I am losing patience. People are asking me about the lake and it is my duty to tell them.

V Balasubramanian, retired IAS officer: We can draw only 29 tmcft of water from the Cauvery River. By 2031, there will be a shortage of 72 mld in the city. The BWSSB will be able to supply water only to two-thirds of the population. If a comprehensive plan to address the water crisis is not made in the next 10 years, half % of the population will leave the city.

A R Shivakumar, rainwater harvesting expert: Funds meant for the rejuvenation of lakes and groundwater have vanished. Roads and pathways in the city have been asphalted, leaving no room for rainwater to seep in, which causes flooding. Every year, at least 23 tmcft of rainwater is going down the drain.

Prakash Javadekar, BJP election in-charge, Karnataka: The Centre provided a detailed action plan with grants amounting to Rs 890 crore to save Bengaluru's lakes, but the state government failed to put it in place. We will come out with plans to solve Bengaluru's water woes in our manifesto.

BOX

'No links with Embassy'

Bengaluru Development Minister K J George has denied having links with the Embassy group which has won several government tenders. He said there was no conflict of interest in the Embassy group getting the work orders as he was neither a partner nor had any stakes in it.The deputy conservator of forests, Yedukondalu, on Monday, said that ornithologists and scientists will visit Kokkarebellur Bird Sanctuary on February 14 and 15, following a series of death of pelicans, here.

An eight-member team, including Dr Saketh from Delhi, Dr Brij Gopal and Dr Asad Rehmani from the Natural History Society of Bombay, T V Ramachandra from the Indian Institute of Science, and Dr Muralidhar from the Indian Veterinary Institute, will visit the sanctuary, said Yedukondalu.

Scientists from the Institute of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals had issued the second medical report related to pelican deaths on January 28, citing worm infection as the cause, said Dr H Hanumegowda, assistant director for Animal Husbandry.

Meanwhile, the pelican deaths have continued at Kokkarebellur. While five birds took ill on Sunday, four of them died on Monday. With this, the number of pelican deaths has increased to 32.The International Mother Language Day on February 21 this year will see release of Bengaluru Declaration of Linguistic Rights seeking to protect the rights of regional languages in India, which has lost 220 languages in the last 50 years.



For linguistic rights activists, Bengaluru came to the limelight when it asserted the Kannada identity during the protest against Hindi imposition. The city will now play host to a national conference on February 19 and 20, where representatives of 30 regional languages from different corners of the country will thrash out issues to prepare the declaration.

Joga Singh, president, Campaign for Language Equality Rights (CLEAR), a civil society organisation comprising individuals and organisations, said people across the country are recognising the threat to local languages.

"The fight for mother tongues is not limited to a few states anymore. In Punjab and surrounding states, rarely a day goes by without some or other protest over language issues. The movement is gathering force and the conference will start a discussion on some basic questions forgotten in the race for English education," Singh said.

In 2010, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) increased the number of endangered regional languages in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka from 17 to 300. Activists say the numbers will only rise further if the language policy continues to marginalise regional languages.

G Anand, an activist from Banavasi Balaga and CLEAR vice president, noted that successive governments at the Centre have ignored the recommendations made by several commissions for protection of local languages.

"We need to amend Article 343 to 351 in Part 17 of the Constitution which are being used for introducing and furthering flawed language policies. There are 1,652 languages in the country but only 22 get official status. The Sitakant Mahapatra Commission recommended inclusion of 38 other languages in the Eighth Schedule in 2004 but till today no government has done anything to implement it," he said.

Anand said the two-day conference will deliberate on all the issues concerning regional languages and come up with a document on the changes needed at policy level to address them. "The Bengaluru Declaration will be on the lines of the (1996) Barcelona Declaration which has proved effective in protection of regional languages in many countries in the European Union," he said.

Priyank K S and Arun Javagal from Banavasi Balaga said the conference will also be self reflective. "The point of view will be broader. It will not be limited to imposition of Hindi or English on Kannada and other languages. We will also see if Kannada has been imposed on people speaking Tulu, Konkani, Kodava, Byari and other languages," Javagal said.

Priyank said the goal is to give people the right to decide which language they want. "If Metro comes up in Mangaluru, then people there should have the right to choose whether they want Tulu over Kannada," he said.Corruption continued to be the Congress president Rahul Gandhi's keynote on the third day of his Janaarshivada Yatra in the state on Monday, raking up the business dealings of the BJP chief Amit Shah's son for the first time.



He demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi to explain how Jay Shah, whom he did not name during his speech, managed to make huge profits in a little time.



"With the Gabbar Singh Tax (GST), Modi destroyed small businesses. But there's one business where 50,000 became 70,000 crore in just three months. That's Amit Shah's son," he charged at a rally where he addressed the tribals at Deodurg in Raichur district. "Modi talks about Startup India, but he doesn't give jobs. He has started a badiya (amazing) startup for Amit Shah's son."

Rahul reached out to Dalits and adivasis by accusing the BJP of taking away their lands to favour corporates and industrialists.

Accusing the BJP of doling out favours to "India's top 10 industrialists," Rahul dared Modi to open Indira Canteens, the popular affordable eateries, all over India to help the poor.

'RSS chief should apologise'

Speaking to reporters in Shahpur in Yadgir district, Rahul demanded an apology from Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat. "What he said about the Army...bilkul galat hai. He should apologise," he said. "Our jawans give their blood and fight at the border. To speak like that (about jawans) is wrong."

Bhagwat reportedly told the RSS workers in Bihar that they can be trained in three days to defend India if the need arose whereas the India Army would require 6-7 months to prepare for war.



The Congress chief continued his tirade against Modi for "failing" to keep his promise of creating 2 crore jobs every year. He pointed out that China was creating 50,000 jobs every 24 hours, whereas "the Modi government creates only 450 jobs a day."

70% reservation

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah vowed to increase reservation for the SCs, STs and other backward classes to 70% from the existing 50%. "Only we can do this and we will do it," he said.



Rahul stops speech for 'Azaan'

Well into speech at the tribal rally in Deodurg, Rahul abruptly stopped talking by pushing the mike away when he heard an 'Azaan' for the noon prayer from a nearby mosque. He did not speak for nearly three minutes. The Azaan is the Islamic call to worship, whose recitation is amplified through loud speakers. Rahul resumed only after he was sure that the 'Azaan'' was over.Given the cosmopolitan composition of Karnataka's electoral base, the BJP is looking at using its organisational machinery from neighbouring states to woo non-Kannada speaking voters.



Nearly 100 of the total 22 Assembly seats in the state fall under 16 districts, which share borders with neighbouring states. The linguistic minority votes play a significant role on polls result in these constituencies and Bengaluru city.

On Monday, BJP national general secretary (Organisation) Ramlal held a meeting with party functionaries from Karnataka and the neighbouring states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Maharashtra, Goa and Tamil Nadu to work out a strategy to woo non-Kannada speaking voters. BJP state president B S Yeddyurappa and general secretaries of the state unit were present.

According to sources, more meetings have been lined-up in the coming days to use the party's organisational machinery from the neighbouring states during the run-up to the polls in Karnataka. Local issues affecting the voters, basic amenities, issues related to their identity among others will be tapped. There will be different approach to different regions and star campaigners and film stars from neighbouring states are likely to invited to campaign in the state.

The Tamil population in Bengaluru is a significant vote-bank and the party is putting in place a separate strategy to woo them, the sources added

Meanwhile, the party is also making preparations for BJP national president Amit Shah's three-day visit to coastal Karnataka from February 18. Shah will tour Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts.By Sarah Zhang

5 February 2018

(The Atlantic)  No one knows exactly when the clones first appeared, but humans only became aware of them in the early 2000s.

It was a German aquarium owner who first brought it to scientists attention. In 1995, he had acquired a bag of Texas crayfish from an American pet trader, only to find his tank inexplicably filling up with the creatures. They were all, it turns out, clones. Sometime, somewhere, the biological rule that making baby crayfish required a mama crayfish and papa crayfish was no longer inviolate. The eggs of the hobbyists all-female crayfish did not need to be fertilized. They simply grew into copies of their motherin a process known as parthenogenesis.Crayfish specialists were astonished. No one had seen anything like it. But the proof was before their eyes and in 2003, scientists dubbed the creatures marbled crayfish, or Marmorkreb in German.Scientists quickly realized the marbled crayfish were not just in German aquariums. The self-replicating creatures were out in the wild, and they were aggressive invaders. Every single one has the ability to reproduce. Every single one could start a new population, says Zen Faulkes, a crustacean researcher at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley who keeps a map of marbled crayfish invasions. You can easily buy marbled crayfish online (though they are now banned in the European Union and some U.S. states). The species has shown up in the wild in Germany, Italy, Slovakia, Sweden, Japan, and Madagascar. Were being invaded by an army of clones, says Faulkes.For the first time, scientists have now fully sequenced the DNA of the marbled crayfish. In fact, they sequenced not one but 11 crayfishincluding those originating from German pet shops as well as wild ones caught in Madagascar. The creatures are indeed clones of each other, all descended from a single crayfish that somehow gained the ability to reproduce on its own. They had remarkably little genetic diversity. At most four letters in their entire DNA sequence differed in a meaningful way.Another intriguing fact, says Frank Lyko, who led the study, is that marbled crayfish are triploid, meaning they have three sets of chromosomes. Most crayfishand most other animalshave two sets, one inherited from the mother and the other from the father. Its unclear, however, whether these three sets of chromosomes are the cause or consequence of its self-cloning ability. Despite having the DNA sequence in hand, the reason and origin of parthenogenesis is still somewhat mysterious, says Gerhard Scholtz, a zoologist at the Humboldt University of Berlin who first described the marbled crayfish in 2003. [more]

A Pet Crayfish Can Clone Itself, and Its Spreading Around the World

5 February 2018 (DKFZ)  Some years ago, a freshwater crayfish which reproduced alone in the aquarium puzzled pet owners and scientists. This could only be explained by a phenomenon called parthenogenesis, a natural form of asexual reproduction. Now, genome sequencing and comparative studies of individual animals have shown that in fact all specimen descend from a single mother crayfish. The Marmorkrebs clone is a separate species (Procambarus virginalis), which, as genetic studies have shown, has split from the slough crayfish found in the Everglades (Procambarus fallax) some 30 years ago.In a current publication, Frank Lyko and his team from the German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) in Heidelberg have provided proof that the all-female offspring of the marbled crayfish is genetically identical. Lyko explains: We could detect only a few hundred variants in a genome that is larger than the human genome. That is an incredibly small number. The minute variations can be ascribed to natural mutations. The DKFZ researchers counted 3.5 billion base pairs in the crayfish genome, which makes it about seven percent larger than the human genome.In another part of the study, a scientist in Madagascar additionally examined how well the crayfish is able to spread in the wild via parthenogenesis. Its enormous reproductive success came as a surprise to the scientists. It was known that the crayfish can establish itself in the wild after releases from the aquarium, Lyko said. But the news was that it can spread so rapidly and massively.Apart from subtropical Madagascar, Marmorkrebs can also be found, for example, in Sweden, Japan, Freiburg, Hanover, or Heidelberg. This is evidence of its remarkable adaptability without any sexual reproduction. According to textbook knowledge, it is precisely the invention of sex and the resulting mix of paternal and maternal genes that enlarge genetic variety, thus facilitating rapid adaptation to adverse environmental conditions.However, although all marbled crayfish are born with the same genes, they are able to adapt to a wide variety of habitats. This is made possible by epigenetic mechanisms. These are regulated by small chemical tags attached to DNA, the genetic substance. Epigenetic mechanisms basically regulate the interpretation of genetic information. They work like switches that turn genes on or off. Epigenetic variants are often influenced by genetic variants. In Marmorkrebs, however, epigenetic variation is independent, because there is virtually no genetic variation, Lyko explained.This epigenetic regulation makes the marbled crayfish extremely interesting for tumor researchers. A crayfish for cancer research  what sounds like a play of words in German (Krebs is the word for the disease and also for crayfish), has in fact become reality. Lyko said: Marmorkrebs is an animal that reproduces clonally and therefore represents a model of a central aspect in tumor development. A tumor is also capable of adapting to its environment, for example, by developing resistance against anticancer drugs. Scientists have known for a couple of years, partly from studies at the DKFZ, that epigenetic mechanisms also play a key role in these processes. They can influence cancer risk and the disease course.A phenomenon called clonal evolution occurs both in Marmorkrebs and in tumors. Lyko: Tumor genomes also evolve clonally, because they go back to a single original cell. A variety of factors play a role in this process, such as chance mutations in genes, genetic drift, selective pressure and epigenetic adaptation to the environment. The team led by Lyko now wants to use marbled crayfish to further investigate their role. According to Julian Gutekunst, who is the first author of the present publication, the key question to be pursued is which impact environmental factors have on epigenetics and gene regulation. These findings may enlarge our knowledge about processes in tumors and open prospects for new approaches in tumor treatment.Julian Gutekunst, Ranja Andriantsoa, Cassandra Falckenhayn, Katharina Hanna, Wolfgang Stein, Jeanne Rasamy and Frank Lyko: Clonal genome evolution and rapid invasive spread of the marbled crayfish, Nature Ecology & Evolution DOI: 10.1038/s41559-018-0467-910.1038/s41559-018-Frank Lyko: The marbled crayfish (Decapoda: Cambaridae) represents an independent new species,

Zootaxa 2017, DOI: /10.11646/zootaxa.4363.4.638/s41559-018-0467-9

A clonal crayfish from nature as a model for tumors

ABSTRACT: The marbled crayfish Procambarus virginalis is a unique freshwater crayfish characterized by very recent speciation and parthenogenetic reproduction. Marbled crayfish also represent an emerging invasive species and have formed wild populations in diverse freshwater habitats. However, our understanding of marbled crayfish biology, evolution and invasive spread has been hampered by the lack of freshwater crayfish genome sequences. We have now established a de novo draft assembly of the marbled crayfish genome. We determined the genome size at approximately 3.5 gigabase pairs and identified >21,000 genes. Further analysis confirmed the close relationship to the genome of the slough crayfish, Procambarusfallax, and also established a triploid AAB genotype with a high level of heterozygosity. Systematic fieldwork and genotyping demonstrated the rapid expansion of marbled crayfish on Madagascar and established the marbled crayfish as a potent invader of freshwater ecosystems. Furthermore, comparative whole-genome sequencing demonstrated the clonality of the population and their genetic identity with the oldest known stock from the German aquarium trade. Our study closes an important gap in the phylogenetic analysis of animal genomes and uncovers the unique evolutionary history of an emerging invasive species.

Clonal genome evolution and rapid invasive spread of the marbled crayfishBy Justine Calma

5 February 2018

(Grist)  The unprecedented brutality of the 2017 hurricane season showed the potential that natural disasters have to destroy livelihoods, displace families, and uproot entire communities. The most recent example, of course, is the situation in Puerto Rico post-Maria. Experts estimate the U.S. territory will lose close to 500,000 residents in the next two years.According to a report by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Center, 26 million people each year have been displaced by natural disasters worldwide. And as climate change likely increases the frequency and intensity of these events, larger numbers of environmental migrants will be forced to leave their homes behind in search of safety and opportunity.Meanwhile, experts warn that countries like the United States are currently adopting policies that indicate climate migrants will be met with closed doors as opposed to open arms. Among those are the recent moves to suspend temporary protected status for people from certain countries, like Haiti in the wake of the devastating 2010 earthquake. And just last week, President Trump nominated Ken Isaacs  who has made public remarks denying climate change  to lead the United Nations International Organization for Migration, which has been at the forefront of addressing climate-induced displacement and migration.As environmental factors compel more and more people to move, it seems apparent that the political winds are forming a perfect storm that will lead to humanitarian crises.The conversion of these two factors most often leads to tragedy, says Mariam Traore Chazalnoel, a climate-migration specialist at the agency Isaacs was just tapped to lead (pending a vote from the organizations membership).In addition to boosting natural disasters, climate change is imperiling island and coastal communities by pushing up sea levels. Kiribati has already purchased land on nearby Fiji in anticipation of having to evacuate its citizens. A warming planet is also exacerbating poverty and conflict around the globe. And experts say environmental pressures affecting agriculture, fishing, or other means of livelihood can often be at the root of economic and political destabilization that forces people to leave home.A recent study published in the journal Science found that if the planet continues to warm at its current rate, the number of migrants who apply for asylum in the European Union is likely to triple by 2100. Even in the case of the more than 5 million refugees fleeing Syria, scientists have pointed to the role warming played in spurring a drought that stoked civil unrest.Climate change was just one additional stressor, an exacerbating factor, that when piled in on top of everything else caused this [conflict] to happen, says Colin Kelley, a senior research fellow at the Center for Climate and Security.Kelley is the lead author of a groundbreaking 2015 study that detailed how drought, crop failure, and the resulting migration from rural areas to urban centers contributed to the onset of the Syrian civil war. []There are areas of the world that are getting degraded, and if we do nothing they will become uninhabitable, Chazalnoel says. But there is still some time  not a lot  but some time to reverse. [more]By Scott Moore

4 February 2018

(The National Interest)  When it comes to Pakistan, President Trumps Twitter feud with one of Americas most important partners in the fight against terrorism has dominated the news. But beneath the headlines, a massive water crisis is unfolding that has profound implications for the countrys stability and security. Rapid urbanization and conflict combined with corruption, crime and years of mismanagement have left a massive proportion of the population without access to clean water. And now, this long-festering crisis threatens to upend Pakistans politics.Perhaps the strangest thing about Pakistans water crisis is that until recently, the country had been doing well in connecting more of its citizens to water supply and sanitation networks. From 1990 to 2015, the percentage of the countrys population with access to clean water increased from 86 percent to 91 percent. But in a reversal of what happens in most countries, almost all of this improvement occurred in rural areasthe percentage of urban residents with access to clean water actually declined from 97 to 94 percent over the same period.Only a few other countries, most of them war-torn places like Syria and Gaza, have experienced similar reversals in providing clean water to cities. And while the causes of Pakistans water crisis are complex, the countrys political instability has played a key part. Pakistan is urbanizing at a rapid rate of over 3 percent annuallythe highest rate in South Asia. The causes of this fast-moving urbanization are deeply troubling, with climate change and the fight against Muslim extremists acting as key drivers. Given this ever-quickening tide, Pakistans cities have had trouble providing basic services, including housing and water, to new urban residents.But the problem is worse in the water sector because rampant corruption and mismanagement keeps prices high and coverage rates low. Because Pakistans cities cant keep up with growing water demand from new residents, many urban-dwellers are forced to buy water from private tanker trucks. And because tankers often bring water from far away, prices are high, and tanker mafias raise them still further by illegally siphoning off water from municipal sources and reselling it at extortionate prices. These criminal gangs represent a serious challenge to Pakistans local authorities. As a Karachi official admitted, These illegal hydrants are established by armed people, so it is very difficult for  staff to just dismantle them. But authorities have also been accused of turning a blind eye to tanker mafias: no less an authority than the Chief Justice of Pakistans Supreme Court was quoted as saying, there is someone behind the scenes at work who is minting money from [the tanker mafias].The result of this corruption and mismanagement is a serious and growing lack of clean water for many of Pakistans cities. According to figures presented to the Pakistani Supreme Court, 83 percent of water supplies in Sindh, Pakistans second-most-populous region, are contaminated with sewage and industrial waste, with the percentage rising to over 90 percent in Karachi, the countrys largest city and financial center. Even worse, up to 60 million people across the country may have been exposed to deadly arsenic leaking into Pakistans groundwater supplies. Late last year, the issue exploded into popular view when the Supreme Court ordered Sindh officials to present a plan for resolving the provinces water crisis. The Courts Chief Justice minced no words, warning officials that The water crisis issue in Pakistan is turning into a bomb. [more]By Lindsay Murdoch

13 February 2018

(The Sydney Morning Herald)  Womens groups and human rights advocates have condemned Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte for encouraging soldiers to shoot female rebels in their genitals, the latest in a series of violent, misogynist remarks.

Duterte, a former provincial mayor, told a group of former communist rebels to tell the soldiers  theres a new order from the mayor. We wont kill you. We will just shoot your vagina.If there is no vagina, it would be useless, he said, appearing to imply that women are useless without their genitals.The Presidents Communications Office included the comments in the official transcript of a speech but replaced the word vagina with a dash.Emmi de Jesus, an MP representing the Gabriela Womans Party, denounced the remark as nasty and said it will contribute to a culture of impunity in the country.She said Duterte is taking state terrorism against women to a whole new level and further confirms himself as the most dangerous macho-fascist in the government right now.Carlos Conde, a representative of Human Rights Watch in the Philippines, said the remark encourages state forces to commit sexual violence during armed conflict which is a violation of international humanitarian law and are the latest in a series of misogynist, derogatory and demeaning statements he has made against women. []While campaigning for the presidency he joked about wanting to be first in line to rape a kidnapped Australian missionary because she was beautiful. []In July 2017 he made rape jokes while talking about Miss Universe.Earlier, he told soldiers battling Muslim fighters in the besieged southern city of Marawi they could rape up to three women a day without getting punished.Harry Roque, the Presidents spokesman, defended the remarks by saying critics should lighten up.I mean, thats funny. Come on, just laugh, he said, adding people identify with his humour.Often when challenged for making outrageous remarks Duterte has insisted he was just joking.But his rule has been defined by violence, including a crackdown on drugs that has left more than 14,000 mostly poor Filipinos dead, the largest number of civilian deaths in Asia for decades. [more]

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India and Palestine on Sunday signed three memoranda of understanding for cooperation in the fields of health, education, finance on the sidelines of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit to the country.

The two countries also signed an MoU for construction of India Palestine Centre for Empowering women, "Turathi'', at a cost of $5 million.

India and Palestine also signed an MoU for setting up of new National Printing Press at Ramallah at a cost of $5 million

Under an MoU signed between India and Palestine, India will construct a school in Muthalth Al Shuhada village at a cost of $1 millionand another school in Tamoon village in Tubas governorate, at a cost of $1.1 million.

Besides, an agreement has been signed for construction of an additional floor to Jawahar Lal Nehru School for Boys at Abu Dees at a cost of $0.25 million.

Prime Minister Modi, who launched an official tour of the Gulf countries from Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) today visited a 300-year-old Shiva Temple in Muscat, Oman in the last leg of his tour.

The prime minister will also be at the grand Sultan Qaboos Mosque which is built from 300,000 tonnes of Indian sandstone. He is also slated to meet a group of Omani CEOs.

On Sunday, Modi held wide-ranging talks with the Sultan of Oman Qaboos bin Said al Said during which the two countries signed eight agreements.

He led delegation-level talks with the Sultan and discussed measures to strengthen cooperation in trade and investment, energy, defence, security, food security and regional issues.

After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including a MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and a MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

Besides, the two countries signed an agreement on cooperation between foreign service institute of the ministry of external affairs and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

Also, Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of "honest and hardworking" Indian nationals in the development of Oman.

More than nine million Indians work and live in the Gulf region. They also constitute the largest expatriate community In Oman.Bitcoin mining is expected to double Iceland's energy consumption to around 100 megawatts this year, which amounts to more than what households on the island nation of 340,000 consume, Metro News reported yesterday, quoting Iceland's National Energy Authority. According to commentators, Iceland may introduce a Bitcoin mining tax to rein in the crypto currency business. Bitcoin mining requires a great deal of computing power, which in turn needs huge amounts of electricity to solve the mathematical puzzles that reward miners with crypto currency. Bitcoin has already been banned in China and South Korea due to problems with a lack of control over fraud and money laundering, and in the case of China, concern over the amount of power that the activity sucks from the electricity grid. With Iceland emerging as one of the most popular destinations for Bitcoin mining, authorities in the country are concerned as large crypto currency miners seek to take advantage of the island's abundant geothermal and hydroelectric power plants. In 2014, Oilprice.com found Iceland to be "the world's top energy glutton," as it used more kilograms of oil equivalent per capita than any other nation on earth. According to commentators, with most of Iceland's energy coming from hydroelectric and geothermal power, Icelanders are among the planet's least energy-conscious people. According to commentators, Iceland is among a few nations that provide access to affordable electricity these days and is one of the best places for renewable energy. It is therefore not surprising that many Bitcoin mining firms have set up shop in the country over the years. According to analysts, with low electricity tariffs and a cold climate, Iceland is in a prime position when it comes to crypto currency mining. Thankfully, the region has an abundance of renewable energy to ensure this trend is manageable, for the time being. According to commentators, Bitcoin mining may be taxed in the future and Pirate Party's Smari McCarthy has already suggested the measure. Whether or not this will become an official law, is a different matter altogether.







Discs from the stone age









Rondelle in sandstone, perforated and engraved, from Isturitz. This piece has had a great deal of care lavished on it to make it symmetrical, and to have a circular ornamentation consistent with its use as the whorl for a drop spindle, used for spinning yarn. A thin wooden, bone, or ivory rod would have been pushed through the hole in order for it to be used as a drop spindle.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Original, Musee d'Archeologie Nationale et Domaine, St-Germain-en-Laye

A very important site for rondelles or discs of this type is Gonnersdorf in Germany. Here, more than 400 rondelles or parts thereof were found, almost all made of slate. Few were decorated in any way, most were obviously used for a particular purpose.During the excavations in 1968, and 1970 to 1974, 382 Rondelles or parts of rondelles which could be identified with respect to diameter were found in Gonnersdorf. With two exceptions, they are made of slate. The other two pieces are made of antler and mammoth ivory; both are intact, but it seems that they were undecorated, although the surface was heavily corroded.Text above translated and adapted from: Bosinski (1977)



Image of the Magdalenian settlement in Gonnersdorf, 12 500 BP, RGZM special exhibition in Mainz 1975.



Traces of two small round tents, and three large, fur-covered dwellings, with a broad oval shape, similar to a yurt, were revealed with a diameter of 6 to 10 metres. They were coloured red on the inside and outside, and the floors were paved with slate.



The settlement was systematically excavated over an area of 650 square metres, and bones were found of mammoth, horse, bison, aurochs, reindeer, deer and arctic fox, as well as birds.



Photo: http://www.landschaftsmuseum.de/Bilder/Rekonstr_Rundzelt-2.jpg

Text: http://www.landschaftsmuseum.de/Seiten/Lexikon/Kunst-Goenn.htm

The pieces found indicated that first the pieces were made as round discs, and then they were pierced at the centre. There were groups of well made discs with no central hole made, as though it was part of a production process. The holes were made from each side, since they were biconical. Most discs have no drilling except for the central hole. Not all the holes were well centred from each side to meet in the exact centre of the drilling points. Some pieces were obviously broken during the drilling process.Most of the roundels are undecorated, but some have also ornaments made out of circles, triangles, ovals or radials. The edges were first retouched , then ground. The position of the central hole was sometimes marked by a cross, indicating careful alignment of the holes.Text above translated and adapted from: Bosinski (1977)

Rondelles made of slate, from Gonnersdorf, City of Neuwied.



( The museum card suggests that these may have been fasteners for tent covers. I believe it is much more likely that they were spindle whorls for spinning thread - Don )



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2018

Source and text: Display at LVR-LandesMuseum Bonn

On loan from : Directorate General for Cultural Heritage Rhineland-Palatinate, Generaldirektion Kulturelles Erbe Rheinland-Pfalz.





Rondelles in slate from Gonnersdorf Stadtkreis Neuwied.



Of the 302 rondelles which were either complete or could be substantially reconstructed with respect to size, the diameters varied between 20 mm and 90 mm, with a continuous transition between the individual measurements, there was no preferred size.



Photo and text: Bosinski (1977)





Rondelles in slate from Gonnersdorf Stadtkreis Neuwied.



Of the 302 rondelles, there were 29 discs, about 10%, less than 25 mm in diameter, and 53, 17.5%, with a diameter greater than 55 mm. The remaining 220 rondelles, 73%, had a diameter between 25 and 55 mm, and matched the sizes of those recovered from other sites.



Photo and text: Bosinski (1977)





Rondelle, 5 cm diameter, pierced with a central hole the size of a pencil, from the Grotte des Enfants, Balzi Rossi (Italy), now kept in the Museum of Monaco.



It is made mostly of carbon mixed with organic matter.



Photo and text: http://precieux.mnhn.fr/?page_id=90



Engraving of an aurochs and a bison from Mas d'Azil.



The two sides are quite different. The one on the left depicts an adult aurochs considered a female because of the fine features of the head. The withers and chest are marked with small incisions. Horns and ears are sketched. The eye and the nostril are shown as points.



The other side of the disk shows a young bison, which, according to the size of the horn and the curvature of the hump might be about five months old. This young bison is half the size of the adult animal. Again, we find the same incisions along the shoulder and the chest. Aurochs females sometimes adopted baby bison.(I assume similar behaviour between cattle and bison has been recorded in zoos - Don )



(note also that the French Wikipedia wrongly credits the young bison rondelle as coming from Bedeilhac - Don )



Text: http://www.musee-archeologienationale.fr/template.php?SPAGE=2276

Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Facsimile, Musee d'Archeologie Nationale et Domaine, St-Germain-en-Laye







Disc discovered by Marthe and Saint-Just Pequart during excavations of the Magdalenian layers of the Mas d'Azil Cave.



This disc was cut from a scapula and engraved on both sides with figurative patterns. On one side is a female auroch, and on the other a young bison.



Length 51 mm, width 49 mm, thickness 1 mm. MAN 77 558



Photo:  RMN-Grand Palais (musee d'Archeologie nationale) / Loic Hamon

Source: http://www.sculpture.prehistoire.culture.fr/en/contenu/research.html#-multi-disciplinary-research





This scapula from Mas d'Azil was used as the base material for round disks similar to the ones above.



To the casual observer, it might seem that not much care was taken in making the discs completely round at the roughing out stage. However I have made my own rondelles from a sheep scapula, and even with modern tools it is by no means easy to get a completely circular disc.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Facsimile, Musee d'Archeologie Nationale et Domaine, St-Germain-en-Laye

Tres mince rondelle en os, de 31 mm de diametre, perforee en son centre, avec sur chaque face la representation d'un herbivore et des signes en chevron le long des bords. Cette oeuvre d'art miniature fut decouverte en 1868 par M. Hardy et publiee pour la premiere fois en 1872 dans "Le Magasin pittoresque", revue populaire de l'epoque.

Very thin disc in bone, 31 mm. in diameter, perforated in its centre, with on each face the representation of a herbivore (deer?) and chevrons along the edges. This miniature work of art was discovered in 1868 by M. Hardy and was published for the first time in 1872 in "Le Magasin pittoresque", a popular review of the time.



Photo and French text: Visiter les Abris de Laugerie-Basse - Alain Roussot - Editions Sud-Ouest.



My thanks to Anya for access to this resource.







Click either of these images to see an animation.



It may have been a button, with a leather thong through the hole, knotted at the end. (I believe that this, and all similar rondelles are weights for drop spindles for spinning yarn - Don )



Animation by Don Hitchcock.



Another view of the disc.



This looks like a museum quality facsimile.



Label:



Rondelle d'os gravee

Laugerie-Basse

Fouilles Hardy

Perigueux, Musee dart et darcheologie du Perigord

Pr.A. 1905



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Musee dart et darcheologie du Perigord, Perigueux















Poster showing the two sides of the disc.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Musee dart et darcheologie du Perigord, Perigueux





Rondelle or disc cut out in a circular shape, with a hole through the centre. It is undecorated.



These discs are usually cut from a scapula (shoulder blade), which provides a ready made thin, flat support.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Musee dart et darcheologie du Perigord, Perigueux













Rondelles (Mas d'Azil?)



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Facsimile, Musee d'Archeologie Nationale et Domaine, St-Germain-en-Laye









Rondelle with geometric ornamentation from Mas d'Azil.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Facsimile, Musee d'Archeologie Nationale et Domaine, St-Germain-en-Laye





Multi perforated engraved disc from the Magdalenian discovered by Pequart at Mas d'Azil.



This disc cut from an omoplate or shoulder blade, has sixteen holes evenly spaced around the circumference with an extra one in the centre.



On each side of the disc, an engraved line connects the perforations. The disc is decorated with two bands of engraved hatching along the diameter of both sides of the central hole. Six pairs of convergent dashes in a chevron shape are within the bands of hatching.



This type of geometric pattern associated with multiple perforations can be found on several other pieces of discs found at the site.



Photo: http://www.arize.fr/Rondelle-multi-perforee.html

Text: translated and adapted from http://www.arize.fr/Rondelle-multi-perforee.html



Engraved and perforated discs from Mas d'Azil.



(left) Disk with radiating barbed pattern.



(right) Disk with a central perforation, length 8cm.



Photo: Pleistocene Coalition News Vol 4, Issue 1, Jan-Feb 2012

Source: Saint-Germain en Laye Museum.

















Man confronts a bear.



This is a stunning work from Mas d'Azil. It consisted originally of a disk, with an engraving on each side.



Disk carved from a scapula (bovine?) Fragmented, 78 mm x 37 mm.



On one side of the disk, we have a human male with an erect penis confronting a bear, with a heavy stick over his shoulder, and on the other side, a man being struck down by a bear. He appears to be shown lying face down, and uniquely, there is no other palaeolithic representation of a man in such a position. If the disc is tipped upside down on this face, a horse may be seen.



It was first described in Piette (1902)



Photo: Duhard (1992)







Rondelle decoupee figurant un homme et une patte d'ours.



Disc showing a man and the paw of a bear.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Facsimile, Musee d'Archeologie Nationale et Domaine, St-Germain-en-Laye



Another version of the man and bear.



Two representations of human figures, a horse, a bear and chevrons. This exceptional piece is made of a scapula. This is the only representation of a composition combining the themes of bears and humans and a horse in a narrative sequence in the whole Palaeolithic corpus of art.



On the most famous face, the forelimb of the bear is directed toward the body of an upright man, looking to the left. The animal is on the offensive or defensive. The man is in a lively attitude. His left leg is lifted and his penis is erect, marking perhaps the effect of aggressive motivation, interpreted as a defensive reaction. HIs arms are stretched forward, and he carries on his right shoulder what appears to be a thick stick pointed at the animal. The theme of man being threatened by an animal is very rare throughout the Palaeolithic iconographic furniture.



(cf the Lascaux bird man and disembowelled bison - Don )



On the reverse side, the scene seems to again be to the disadvantage of the human under threat by the same bear paw. The man was probably seen from the rear, and errors and omissions excepted, there is no other man seen from the rear in Paleolithic art.



If we tip the disc upside down on the reverse side, an engraving of the front of a horse, with a mane and high pronounced jaw appears.



Photo: http://www.arize.fr/Homme-au-bambou.html

Text: translated and adapted from http://www.arize.fr/Homme-au-bambou.html



Fragment of a rondelle, a flat circular object always with a hole in the centre, as here. Often cut from a shoulder blade.



This one from l'abri de Raymonden, Chancelade, has a mammoth engraved, showing the trunk, one tusk, and another barely indicated, the mouth, the head, the eye, the shoulders and front leg.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Original, Musee dart et darcheologie du Perigord, Perigueux





Rondelles from France with naturalistic decoration.



1. Mas d'Azil , Ariege, Chollot (1980)



2. La Tuliere, Dordogne, Sieveking (1971)



3 and 4. Mas d'Azil Ariege, Barandiararan (2006)



5. Raymonden , Dordogne (as in the colour photo above)



6. Mas d'Azil, Ariege, Chollot (1980)



Photo and text: De Las Heras et al. (2008)



This rondelle or disc depicting a wooly mammoth was discovered in 1865 by E. Dupont.



It is made of ivory, and is subquadrangular in shape. The maximum width is 47.8 mm, the width of the larger perforations is 3.9 mm, and the maximum thickness is 3.4 mm.



Items close by the rondelle have been dated at 12 370  170 BP, 12 990  140 BP and 12 710  150 BP.



Photo: P Cattelain

Source: Bott et al. (1994)













Rondelle from La Vina, Asturias.



(see colour photo below)



Photo: Fortea et al. (1987)







La Vina, boundary layer IV (lower):



Top row: horse cut out on a hyoid bone, engraved on both sides



Middle row: Deer rondelle and a contour cut on a rib.



Bottom layer: Llonin X, Rondelle engraved on both sides.



(note in particular with this lowest disc that the hole has not been made in the centre of the circular cutout of the scapula bone, but is eccentric - Don )



Photo and text: Rodriguez (2004)













Rondelle from Llonin, Asturias.



Photo: Fortea et al. (1990)



Rondelle decoupee en os gravee (moulage)



Disc cut out and engraved, in bone.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Facsimile, Musee d'Archeologie Nationale et Domaine, St-Germain-en-Laye





Plate with a hole in the centre.



Mammoth tusk; carved, polished and engraved. 138 x 81 mm.

Mal'ta Site (excavations by M.M. Gerasimov, 1928-1930), Siberia, the River Belaya, near Irkutsk, Russia

Maltinsko-buretskaya Culture. 23 000 - 19 000 BP



Photo and text: http://www.hermitagemuseum.org/





Left, face A of the rondelle from la grotte d'Enlene, showing an engraved bison.



Right, face B, a geometric design.



Photo: R. Begouen

Source: Begouen et al. (1989)





Left, face B of the rondelle from la grotte d'Enlene, showing a geometric design.



Right, face A, an engraved bison.



Drawing: F. Lebrun-Ricalens

Source: Begouen et al. (1989)





Plate, or rondelle. Found with the burial of a child. Mal'ta site.



(Note that this is a facsimile. It looks to me like the paler sections are replicas of the shards of the rondelle that were actually found, and the darker areas are the best guess for what the rest of the rondelle looked like - Don )



Photo: Vladimir Gorodnjanski 2007

Source: The Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg





Rondelle from la Cueva de El Linar, sides A and B.



Photo: De Las Heras et al. (2008)





Close up of the engraving on the rondelle from la Cueva de El Linar.



Photo: De Las Heras et al. (2008)





Rondelle from la Cueva de El Linar, showing that the image can be fitted perfectly to a cave wall painting from Niaux, indicating a wide ranging homogenous artistic tradition of painting and engraving across the Pyrenees from what is now France to Spain, and very close cultural links.



Photo: De Las Heras et al. (2008)



Rondelle decoupee gravee de motifs geometriques



Disc cut out and engraved with geometric motifs, from la grotte de Saint-Michel-d'Arudy, Pyrenees-Atlantiques.



Photo: Don Hitchcock 2014

Source: Facsimile (?), Musee d'Archeologie Nationale et Domaine, St-Germain-en-Laye





Rondelle from la Cueva de Las Aguas, sides A and B.



Photo: De Las Heras et al. (2008)





Rondelle from Gourdan, Haut-Garronne.



Photo: Chollot (1980)





Rondelle from la Cueva de Las Aguas, sides A and B and cross section.



Photo: De Las Heras et al. (2008)





Close up of the centre of the rondelle from la Cueva de Las Aguas.



(note that I have rotated this image 180 so that the grooves look like grooves and not ridges. This illusion is because most people are used to seeing light come from the upper left when making sense of such an image, and is the convention used by map makers when showing relief by shadowing - Don )



Photo: De Las Heras et al. (2008)



Rondelle from l'abri Plantade, Bruniquel, Tarn et Garonne.



Photo: Ladier et Welte (1993)

Rondelles from the Neolithic



Rondelles from the Ehrenstein Neolithic village.



The Stone Age 'buttons' are made of limestone.



Photo: Hendrik Zwietasch / Landesmuseum W

2

The following report is adapted from news articles about Neolithic rondelles found near the town of Ulm, in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany.One report was written by Hans Holzhaider, at https://www.sueddeutsche.de/wissen/archaeologie-das-raetsel-der-grossen-knoepfe-1.4907746Another is a press release from the Museum of Ulm, at https://museumulm.de/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/PRESSE-RELEASE-BLACK-ON-WHITE-1.pdfIn 1952 the ruins of a 6000 year old village from the Neolithic Age were found in the valley of the river Blau near Ehrenstein. Due to their location in the damp valley floor, the remains of the wooden houses were excellently preserved.Excavations in 1952 and 1960 uncovered parts of 15 buildings. The size of the settlement was determined in 2014 by drilling sondages on over 9,000 mAccording to the tree rings preserved in the timber from the buildings, the first village was built in 3 955 BC. After several fires and reconstructions it was abandoned just under 100 years later.Among the numerous recovered objects made of stone, bone, antlers and ceramics, one find group stands out in particular: flat, almost round discs of various sizes made of limestone with a double perforation in the middle. On one side they are decorated at the edges with straight or triangular radial patterns. These were originally filled with a black paste so that the patterns were clearly visible.Apart from finished specimens, often with traces of use, there are many blanks and unfinished pieces. Apparently these discs were only made and used in this village. They still present a puzzle to archaeological research today.The first thought was that they were buttons. Small, round discs, nicely decorated on the edge, two holes in the middle, easy to sew on. They would look good on a traditional jacket.Oscar Paret, state archaeologist in Baden-Wurttemberg, had exactly this idea when he found the first specimens in the summer of 1952. 'We called them buttons' he wrote in his excavation report. The archaeologists had been called when a clay pot and several worked pieces of deer antler had been discovered in the excavated soil for the sludge sedimentation basin of a lime works in the valley of the Blau river, a few kilometres west of Ulm.



During the excavation, the remains of an entire Neolithic settlement appeared. The floorboards and the posts of the hut walls had been excellently preserved in the groundwater-bearing layer under the damp meadows of the blue valley.



The age of the remains could be dated exactly on the basis of the annual rings of the trunks used: the settlement was first built in 3 955 BC. It burned down completely four times, was rebuilt each time, and the final buildings were put up around 3 840 BC.



Here we can see a reconstruction of one of the houses in the settlement.

In March 2020, Arc-Tech built a model of a Stone Age house in the Blau valley in Southern Germany, shown here.



Text: https://pressfrom.info/us/news/science-and-technology/-441968-archeology-the-riddle-of-the-big-buttons.html

and https://www.sueddeutsche.de/

Photo: ulfr23

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nz5Zrqur9WA

References

Barandiararan I., 2006: Imagenes y adornos en el arte portatil paleolitico, Col. Ariel Prehistoria, Barcelona. Begouen R., Clottes J., Giraud J., Rouzaud F., 1989: La rondelle au bison d'Enlene (Montesquieuavantes, Ariege, Zephyrus, Revista de prehistoria y arqueologia, ISSN 0514-7336, No. 41-42, 1988-1989, pp. 19-26 Bosinski G., 1977: Die rondelle des Magdalenien-Fundplatzes Gonnersdorf, Quartar, 27/ 28. Bonn Bott S., Cattelain P., Jadin I., 1994: Un mammouth grave sur une rondelle du Trou de Chaleux (Prov. de Namur), Notae Praehistoricae, 13, 1994 Chollot M., 1980: Les origines du graphisme symbolique, Editions de la Fondation Singer-Poliganac, Paris De Las Heras C., Montes R., Lasheras J., Rasines P., Fatas P., 2008: Dos rodetes paleoliticos procedentes de las Cuevas del Linar y las Aguas, Alfoz de Lloredo (Cantabria), Veleia, 24-25, 2007-2008 Fortea J., Corchon S., Gonzalez Morales M., Rodriguez Asensio A., Hoyos M., Laville M., Fernandez Tresguerres J., 1987: Trabajos recientes en los valles del Nalon y del Sella, Colloque Internacional dArt Mobilier Paleolithique, Foix, 1987, pp: 191 y ss. Fortea J., Rasilla Vives M., Rodrigues-Otero V., 1990: Sobre un rodete perforado magdaleniense de Llonin, Archivo de Prehistoria Levantina, vol XX, pp . 95 y ss., Valencia. Ladier, E., Welte C., 1993: Les objets de parure de la vallee de l'Aveyron, Fontales, Abris de Bruniquel (Plantade, Lafaye, Gandil), Paleo, N.5, 1993 pp. 281-317 Rodriguez S., 2004: Palaeolithic Mobile Art in Cantabrian Spain and its prolongation in the Epipalaeolithic, Kobie,(Serie Anejos no. 8), ano 2004. Las sociedades del Paleolitico en la region cantabrica. Sieveking A., 1971: A catalogue of Palaeolithic art in the British Museum, London

Settlements like the one in the Blautal are known from the entire northern Alpine region, from Lake Geneva to Lake Constance and the Salzkammergut. Its characteristic is the proximity to the water; A well-known example is the pile dwellings near Unteruhldingen on Lake Constance. There are 18 such sites in Germany alone. But only in one of these settlements, in the Valley of the Blue, were these strange, button-like objects found.As the excavation progressed, it quickly became clear: buttons couldn't be that. Quite apart from the fact that the button was invented in the Middle Ages, not even the Romans had buttons: these things were much too big to fit through a buttonhole. There were small specimens, only about two inches in diameter, but most were much larger, up to six inches in diameter. They were scattered all over the village.The settlement consisted of about 50 houses that were closely spaced in irregular rows - an early Swabian row house settlement. They usually consisted of two rooms, a larger one with an open fireplace and a smaller one with an oven. Only about a fifth of the area was archaeologically investigated, and around 200 'buttons' were found on this area alone. One can therefore assume that around a thousand of these objects were lying around in the entire village.It can be assumed that around a thousand of these objects were lying around in the entire village The Stone Age artisans found the material for the production of the "buttons" in the immediate vicinity: flat, fine-grained Jurassic limestone, as was also used for relining the ovens and hearths in the houses. The round blanks were cut from the lime slabs and sanded with water and sand.A flint drill was then used to drill two holes in the middle, from both sides; you can see from individual specimens that the holes did not always meet. The front and back are clearly different. The front is carefully smoothed and decorated with radial scratches on the edge. The cracks were blackened. When Oscar Paret's excavation team found the first specimens, they considered the black color to be dirt and tried to scrub it off. But analyzes with the mass spectrometer later showed that the cracks were covered with birch pitch. The Stone Age craftsmen obviously wanted to achieve an ornamental effect.Reveal ink technology makes commercial debut with Coca-Cola

To deliver an interactive experience, cans of Coke, Coke Zero, Fanta & Sprite have been rolled out in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia featuring temperature sensitive inks.





As competition for consumer attention and loyalty intensifies, brands are increasingly turning to packaging to achieve differentiation on retail shelves and enhance engagement.



The result of collaboration between Crown Bevcan Europe & Middle East and Chromatic Technologies Inc. (CTI), Reveal inks allow graphics to change to reveal specific imagery and messaging during consumption. Two thermochromic inks appear at the same time when the can is cold, but as the cold product is consumed, one ink disappears. This technology provides one ambient original image, one cold image and as the consumer drinks the contents of the can, a third image appears, offering the perfect vehicle to hide a message.



Coca-Cola featured four specific messages - one per brand  to engage with its customers in a fun, unique manner. Cans are decorated to include either a person or cartoon-style animal, from which a speech bubble emanates to hold the thermochromic messaging which appears when the can is chilled. An interactive quick response (QR) code beneath the image links to exclusive video content, driving traffic to the brands website.



The application represents the first commercial use of Reveal inks.





One of the things that I managed to do during my scuba diving trip was some bird watching in Raja Ampat in West Papua.



You may already know from my niche travel blog that I am a scuba diver, adventurer and also bird watcher having done these since 2007.









Raja Ampat in West Papua has always been a dream destination or major bucket list for me, and in September 2017, this dream came true.



Raja Ampat Bird Watching



A green parrot spotted on my trek to see the Red Bird of Paradise



Working with the Indonesia Ministry of Tourism, under the Wonderful Indonesia Campaign for 2017, a group of us were invited on a scuba diving adventure to three islands in the far east of Indonesia, and Raja Ampat in West Papua was the last stop. I have been bird watching as long as I have been scuba diving and as of 2017, it has been a total of 9 years doing both niche hobbies.Raja Ampat in West Papua has always been a dream destination or major bucket list for me, and in September 2017, this dream came true.Working with the Indonesia Ministry of Tourism, under the Wonderful Indonesia Campaign for 2017, a group of us were invited on a scuba diving adventure to three islands in the far east of Indonesia, and Raja Ampat in West Papua was the last stop.









Of course, my main objective was to spot the amazing Bird of Paradise, which is the star endemic bird here. And it is also one of the top birds to spot in the world by many bird watchers.



Raja Ampat Dive Resort, where I stayed at



On this trip, my sole purpose for visiting Raja Ampat was for scuba diving and with what free time I had, I utilized it to the fullest for my bird watching.



I stayed at the This gave me some free time and without fail, I had immediately booked a local village bird watching guide who took me for a half morning birding experience here in Raja Ampat.Of course, my main objective was to spot the amazing Bird of Paradise, which is the star endemic bird here. And it is also one of the top birds to spot in the world by many bird watchers.On this trip, my sole purpose for visiting Raja Ampat was for scuba diving and with what free time I had, I utilized it to the fullest for my bird watching.I stayed at the Raja Ampat Dive Resort , and around the resort area, I must have spotted at least 10 species of birds.









While having my coffee, I would see some of the lory and parrots flying above for their morning feed.



A Grey-headed Cuckooshrike spotted eating a cicada on Piaynemo Island



West Papua is known to be a bird watchers paradise as there are over 704 species (as of 2016) of birds that can be found throughout this part of Indonesia.



However, my trip was only to Waisai in the Raja Ampat Regency and thus, I could only do bird watching around here. Every morning, I would be woken up by the calls of the Red Bird of Paradise, Parrots and a number of other canopy birds that are really loud.While having my coffee, I would see some of the lory and parrots flying above for their morning feed.West Papua is known to be a bird watchers paradise as there are over 704 species (as of 2016) of birds that can be found throughout this part of Indonesia.However, my trip was only to Waisai in the Raja Ampat Regency and thus, I could only do bird watching around here.









Some large islands and many smaller ones attract both lowland and water birds. On an average day, I could easily spot about 10-20 species even without trying.



A Great Frigatebird spotted flying over my dive boat in Raja Ampat



What makes this place a birding wonderland is that the pristine rainforest has been preserved all this time, with very little development done around here.



The area is not crowded with villages or people, making it ideal for the avian life. The balance of bird species is also incredible as there are a total of 640 islands that makes up the Raja Ampat Regency.Some large islands and many smaller ones attract both lowland and water birds. On an average day, I could easily spot about 10-20 species even without trying.What makes this place a birding wonderland is that the pristine rainforest has been preserved all this time, with very little development done around here.The area is not crowded with villages or people, making it ideal for the avian life.





My Raja Ampat Bird Watching Experience









The journey is about one hour trek inland and then uphill. This was, of course, a special rate for the very little time I had.



The beautiful Paradise Kingfisher spotted at about 6.00 am on my trek



For my special birding adventure, I paid IDR300,000 (US$22.00) for a half morning trek and this was via foot from my resort to the Bird of Paradise spot.The journey is about one hour trek inland and then uphill. This was, of course, a special rate for the very little time I had.

I started at about 4.00 AM and ended by 8.00 AM, so in actual fact, I only managed to do two hours of solid birding.



But the one-hour walks were equally fruitful as there were many birds to spot along the way.









At the locations, makeshift benches are available which are organically made.



The Red Lory is quite a common bird to spot in Raja Ampat



Your guide will ask you to be extremely quiet when you are near the area. Even walking, you should try not to break any twigs. Hand signals are used, or he will approach you and whisper to your ear. There were two locations in the rainforest where you can spot the Red Bird of Paradise and if the first location is quiet, the guide will bring you to the second location.At the locations, makeshift benches are available which are organically made.Your guide will ask you to be extremely quiet when you are near the area. Even walking, you should try not to break any twigs. Hand signals are used, or he will approach you and whisper to your ear.



At the first location, I sat for a good 10 minutes with no moment. But it was at the second location where I spotted two Red Birds of Paradise, which was pretty amazing, though I did not get a good photo.



What I managed to photograph the Red Bird of Paradise which was spotted



Luck was no one my side as time was crucial, by the time I spotted the Red Bird of Paradise, I could barely see them as they were plucking the top canopy leaves, and of course, blocked by the canopy. At the first location, I sat for a good 10 minutes with no moment. But it was at the second location where I spotted two Red Birds of Paradise, which was pretty amazing, though I did not get a good photo.Luck was no one my side as time was crucial, by the time I spotted the Red Bird of Paradise, I could barely see them as they were plucking the top canopy leaves, and of course, blocked by the canopy.



I could get glimpses of them with my 600mm lens and also my Omicron Binoculars, however, I needed to wait for the right moment to photograph them, which of course was quite frustrating.





And soon, I needed to be back at the dive resort to go for my 8.30 AM dive, and it was already 7.30 AM when I spotted the birds.



I took whatever photos I could, but I saw them through my binoculars and they were indeed beautiful birds.









Well, at least I managed to spot the Red Bird of Paradise and this gave me the motivation to plan another trip back here.



Some of the common Willie Wagtails spotted hanging around the resort



Star Birds or Raja Ampat Looking at the time, I had to abandon my mission and head back one hour to the resort to get ready for my dive.Well, at least I managed to spot the Red Bird of Paradise and this gave me the motivation to plan another trip back here.





Without fail, one bird comes to mind and that is the Bird of Paradise, which is endemic to Papua. However, I learned that there are 33 species for the Bird of Paradise found all over Papua, which was a shock to me.



The good news is that there is four main Bird of Paradise that people look for in West Papua. From what I know, most serious bird watchers will have these four on their checklist.









Wilson's Bird of Paradise

Red Bird of Paradise

King Bird of Paradise

Western Crowned Pigeon

Western Parotia

Northern Cassowary

A raptor seen in the skies near Piaynemo, can't really tell if this is a Honey-Buzzard



Random Bird Photos Taken in Raja Ampat





A Hooded Butcherbird spotted high on the canopy near the resort



Pacific Reef Egret spotted at sea just before my dive



A Helmeted or New Guinea Friarbird spotted on a branch



Bird Watching Tours in Raja Ampat Here is a list of star birds of Raja Ampat that birders want to spot;





From what I know, bird watchers usually book a 10-day or 30-day bird watching tour around West Papua and this is to make sure that they get to spot the best of the best on this trip.



Well, to be perfectly honest, it is not cheap to get here, and once you plan your trip, you got to make the best of it in all possible ways.









In my case, that was how I did my bird watching here, with limited time, but adamant to do it. In the end, it was an eye-opener for me.



A Grey-backed Tern flies near my dive boat



Price for Bird Watching Tours in Raja Ampat I would advise against booking a one day tour, unless you are here specifically for a business trip or a quick honeymoon or even a dive trip, then maybe you can book this bird tour for a day.In my case, that was how I did my bird watching here, with limited time, but adamant to do it. In the end, it was an eye-opener for me.





Please note that the Raja Ampat bird watching tour prices below are based on actual figures from various operators.



Some of the bird tours may offer cheaper or more expensive packages and it is up to you to see what is being offered in each of the packages.





Raja Ampat Bird Watching Prices 2018

1/2 Day Raja Ampat Birding Tour - IDR 450,000 / US$33.00 (RM140.00)

1 Day Raja Ampat Birding Tour (2 Locations) - IDR 600,000 / US$45.00 (RM187.00)

5 Day West Papua Birding Tour - IDR 8,041,425 / US$ 595.00 (RM2,512)

12 Day West Papua Birding Tour - IDR 79,130,325 / US$ 5855.00 (RM24,728)

30 Day West Papua Birding Tour - IDR 121,071,000 / US$ 8958 (RM 37,835)

*Prices are based on per person and minimum two or four to go. You need to double check with the operator on this.



*Prices are also without flights and for longer days, accommodations, food, and transport are included.

A Spice Imperial Pigeon spotted on one of the trees on my trek back



How to go to Raja Ampat

Generally, there are flights that connect from Makassar in Sulawesi, directly to Sorong, the capital of West Papua. Once you arrive in Sorong, you need to take another flight or take the Bahari Ferry to Waisai harbour.

From Waisai harbour or airport, your bird watching guide will pick you up and send you to your resort. In simple layman terms, you need one full day just for travelling from Bali or Jakarta.

However, if you are flying in from elsewhere, be prepared to spend two days just for travelling to Raja Ampat one way. Usually, if you book tours, it only includes the pick up from the port of entry.

You can also read my other article on getting to Raja Ampat , which explains everything in detail. Hopefully, that can give you a better idea o the travels to this part of the world.

Final Thoughts to Bird Watching in Raja Ampat





Honestly, if you are an avid bird watcher, or want to see some of the most beautiful birds in the world, Raja Ampat is your next destination.



For me, it was my first time setting foot on this exotic and mysterious land, and how could I not even try a little birding here.









On my bird watching morning trip, I counted the number to be around 25 species of birds spotted in a total of four hours.



An Asian Glossy Starling was seen on Arborek Island, Raja Ampat



I would easily pack my bags again to visit Raja Ampat in West Papua to do some serious bird watching, probably for a week. Well, not everyone has the luxury of doing a 30-day birding tour. For my bird count, I spotted at least 45 species of birds during my five days in Raja Ampat. This includes the many sea birds, raptors and the lowland birds.On my bird watching morning trip, I counted the number to be around 25 species of birds spotted in a total of four hours.I would easily pack my bags again to visit Raja Ampat in West Papua to do some serious bird watching, probably for a week. Well, not everyone has the luxury of doing a 30-day birding tour.



But I know of some birders who are all out to get the world bird count numbers out and they would engage on tours like that.









Piaynemo in Raja Ampat, one of the iconic places in West Papua



They understand the difference between a bird watcher and bird photographer too. And the best part is that they communicate in English which makes bird watching here in Raja Ampat easy. The good thing about birding here is that most of the guides are professional and know what they are doing. They are well knowledgeable about the local birds and know the best times and spots to locate them.They understand the difference between a bird watcher and bird photographer too. And the best part is that they communicate in English which makes bird watching here in Raja Ampat easy.



A Senate committee has deemed it wholly appropriate that employers pay a levy to access overseas workers; however, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Kate Carnell, considers this another blow for small businesses.

[Related article: Federal Budget: foreign worker tax introduced]

In October, last year, the Federal Government introduced the Migration Amendment (Skilling Australians Fund) Bill 2017 and the Migration (Skilling Australians Fund) Charges Bill 2017 into Parliament, with a view to addressing concerns about the displacement of Australian workers.

The bills provide a framework for the collection of a levy from employers for engaging overseas workers on temporary and permanent visas. With the introduction of this levy in March 2018, the Federal Government is seeking to raise between $1.2 billion and $1.5 billion, over a four-year period, for its Skilling Australians Fund. It expects the Fund will support up to 300,000 apprentices, trainees, pre-apprentices and higher level skilled Australians.

In its report inquiring into both bills, the Senate Education and Employment Legislation Committee recommended the bills be passed by the senate on the basis that it was wholly appropriate that employers seeking access to overseas skilled workers should be required to contribute to the broader skills development of Australians.

The Committee added, The Skilling Australians Fund will support targeted investment in critical skill needs in key regions and industries across the Australian economy While the committee acknowledges the concerns raised by submitters, on balance it considers the bills necessary to ensure that all Australians have access to adequate and high-quality skills and training opportunities.

Commenting on the report, Carnell said increasing the cost to small businesses of engaging migrants on temporary visas will add to the angst already involved in the complex and time-consuming process of securing a suitable worker.

We know that small businesses contribute significantly to the training of their own workforce and are more than happy to do this, she said.

However, in some businesses and some areas, particularly regional and rural, no amount of advertising or word of mouth is going to fill a vacancy.

This is when employers look to what is probably the last resort for them, which is getting skilled workers from overseas.

We are disappointed that this new legislation increases costs, timeframes and red tape.

Under the proposed legislation, business owners will have to pay an upfront training levy of up to $8,000, spend around 80 hours filling out paperwork and then wait between seven to nine months for this to be processed.

With cash flow and profit margins always a challenge, and no human resource or finance departments to support the process, like big business, small businesses might just walk away as it is too hard.

This legislation imposes a disproportionate burden on Australias small businesses and limits their capacity to employ people to run or grow their business.Ghana held its general elections last December 7 and 8, 2012, reelecting incumbent President John Dramani Mahama. However, Nana Akufo-Addo, flag-bearer of the opposition New Patriotic Party, is challenging Mahamas narrow win and intends to contest the result in court, a legal process that is sure to be prolonged. The verdict could potentially challenge Ghanas generally stable and peaceful political environment. What will not change are the countrys close economic ties to China.

On my trip to Ghana in 2011, I observed Chinese foremen at the construction sites of the now completed George W. Bush Highway. The massive Ministry of Defense building in Ghanas capital, Accra, was constructed with a $50-million Chinese grant. The Bui Hydroelectric Dam is a collaborative project of the government of Ghana and Sino Hydro, a Chinese construction company. In 2012, China invested in a new Ghanaian airline that serves domestic routes, and it is likely that the China Airports Construction Corporation (CACC) will be involved in building Accras new international airport.

But Ghana is not the only African country in which China operates. Indeed, China is the largest financier on the entire continent. Chinese corporations, financial institutions, and the government have invested billions of dollars in large new dams, for example.

A common charge is that Chinese companies prefer to bring in Chinese employees (and even prisoners) to work on African projects, rather than relying on a local labor force. But Zambian economist Dambisa Moyo maintains that in Zambia, at least, the ratio of African to Chinese workers exceeds 13:1, and that there is no evidence of Chinese prisoners working there.

As African countries like Ghana search for infrastructure improvements to accelerate their economic growth, China has sidelined the role of the West on the continent.

A fundamental question is how Chinas model of economic activity in Africa differs from the approach of Western countries, and whether Africa is better off for it. World Bank analyst David Dollar points out that the West has by and large gotten out of hard infrastructure projects, which is where China concentrates its activity, particularly in power and rail.

A 2009 World Bank report estimated that Chinese financial commitments to African infrastructure projects rose from less than $1 billion per year in 2001-2003 to around $1.5 billion per year in 2004-2005, reaching at least $7 billion in 2006. In July 2012, Chinese President Hu Jintao offered $20 billion in loans to African countries over the next three years. The estimate for total Chinese investment from 2010 to 2012 is $101 billion.

How good is all this for Africa? U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton has not been sanguine about her opinion of Chinas role in Africa, implying during her Africa trip in August 2012 that China is unconcerned about democracy and human rights on the continentcompared to the United States, which she says is committed to a model of sustainable partnership that adds value, rather than extract[ing] it. In Zambia, she warned of a new colonialism threatening the African continent, adding, We saw that during colonial times, it is easy to come in, take out natural resources, pay off leaders, and leave.

In July 2010, the Chinese ambassador to South Africa, Xian Xuejun, criticized Western politicians and media who make irresponsible remarks on China-Africa relations. After all, when it comes to colonialism and neocolonialism alike, the Wests record has hardly been spotless. We need only be reminded of the cozy relationship between the United States and the ruinous Congolese dictator Mobutu Sese Seko, one of many authoritarian rulers on the continent to have been propped up by Washington.

Indeed, many African governments prefer China as an economic partner over Western countries for a number ofreasons. First, Chinas own development experience has instructive value. Second, China fulfills Africas need for critical infrastructure more cheaply, less bureaucratically, and more quickly. And finally, China portrays Africa more positively as a partner in mutually beneficial cooperation and common prosperity, rather than a doomed continent requiring aid.

Chinas record in Africa will remain mixed and subject to debate, but what happens on the ground in the everyday dealings between Africans and the Chinese will shape the consensus. Stories of dangerous skirmishes can tarnish either side, but the reputation of the Chinese will ultimately rest upon whether China delivers what is best for the continent.For the past century, studies of the languages, literatures, history, culture and writing traditions of the Malay world of maritime Southeast Asia  comprising present-day Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, and the southern parts of Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines  have been fundamentally shaped by the collections of manuscripts held in European institutions, primarily those in the UK and the Netherlands, and those formed under colonial auspices, such as the National Library of Indonesia. These collections themselves reflect the interests of their collectors, who were mainly European scholars and government officials from the early 19th century onwards, whose interests were focused on literary, historical and legal compositions in vernacular languages such as Malay and Javanese. Relatively little attention was paid to works on Islam written in Arabic, or in Malay and Arabic, and hence such manuscripts are very poorly represented in institutions such as the British Library.



Map of the holy sites of Mecca, probably acquired in the Hijaz and brought back to Sumatra by a returning pilgrim, in the Mangku Suka Rame collection, Kerinci, Jambi. British Library EAP117/11/1, digitised in 2007 by Uli Kozok.

In 2004 the Endangered Archives Programme (EAP), funded by Arcadia, was established at the British Library, for the preservation of cultural material in danger of destruction. The hundreds of manuscript collections worldwide which have been documented and digitised include 16 relating to Islamic Southeast Asia, located in areas ranging from Aceh to the Moluccas, and from Sri Lanka to Cambodia. Even the most cursory survey reveals that the profile of manuscripts still held in the field, in private and mosque collections, differs radically from those held in Western libraries, primarily through the very high proportion of Islamic texts, which probably account for around 95% of the manuscripts digitised.



Custodians of Islamic Cham manuscripts from Vietnam digitised in 2012 by Hao Phan, British Library EAP531.

The British Library and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) are now pleased to invite applications for a three year PhD Studentship, tenable at SOAS available from 24 September 2018, funded through the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) under its Collaborative Doctoral Programme. The doctoral program Shifting Landscapes: Mapping the intellectual writing traditions of Islamic Southeast Asia aims to investigate these digitised collections of manuscripts from Islamic Southeast Asia, to trace how our understanding of the landscape and ecology of the intellectual writing traditions of the region needs to be radically redrawn in the light of these newly-accessible primary source materials. The successful candidate will therefore undertake a thesis that centres on analysing collections of manuscripts written in Arabic script from Southeast Asia that have been digitised through the EAP, with reference to other collections as necessary. The thesis will be jointly supervised by Dr Mulaika Hijjas of the School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics at SOAS and by Dr Annabel Teh Gallop, head of the Southeast Asia section at the British Library.



Two manuscripts from West Sumatra on the recitation of the Qur'an (tajwid), with charts of makharij al-huruf, the places of emission of the letters, showing the physiognomic points of articulation of the phonemes of Arabic in relation to the lips, mouth, tongue and throat. On the left, MS from the Surau Baru Bintungan Tinggi collection, EAP144/1/7, and on the right, MS from the Surau-surau Malalo, EAP144/5/21, digitised in 2007 by Zuriati.

The main digital EAP collections relating to Islamic Southeast Asia are the following:

 EAP061 The MIPES Indonesia: digitising Islamic manuscript of Indonesian Pondok Pesantren

 EAP117 Digitising 'sacred heirloom' in private collections in Kerinci, Sumatra, Indonesia

 EAP144 The digitisation of Minangkabau's manuscript collections in Suraus

 EAP153 Riau manuscripts: the gateway to the Malay intellectual world

 EAP205 Endangered manuscripts of Western Sumatra. Collections of Sufi brotherhoods

 EAP211 Digitising Cirebon manuscripts

 EAP212 Locating, documenting and digitising: Preserving the endangered manuscripts of the Legacy of the Sultanate of Buton, South-Eastern Sulawesi Province, Indonesia

 EAP229 Acehnese manuscripts in danger of extinction: identifying and preserving the private collections located in Pidie and Aceh Besar regencies

 EAP276 Documentation and preservation of Ambon manuscripts

 EAP280 Retrieving heritage: rare old Javanese and old Sundanese manuscripts from West Java (stage one)

 EAP329 Digitising private collections of Acehnese manuscripts located in Pidie and Aceh Besar regencies

 EAP352 Endangered manuscripts of Western Sumatra and the province of Jambi. Collections of Sufi brotherhoods - major project

 EAP365 Preservation of Makassarese lontara pilot project

 EAP450 Manuscripts of the Sri Lankan Malays

 EAP531 Preserving the endangered manuscripts of the Cham people in Vietnam

 EAP609 Digitising Malay writing in Sri Lanka

 EAP698 Digitisation of the endangered Cham manuscripts in Vietnam

As noted above, the majority of the manuscripts digitised are Islamic in content, with about half written in Arabic, and the others in Malay and Javanese. Texts include copies of the Quran and commentaries (tafsir), hadith collections of prophetic traditions, works on fiqh (observance of Islamic law) and on Sufism, prayers, sermons and Arabic grammars. In comparison, the historic British Library collection of approximately 250 manuscripts from Southeast Asia in Arabic script, written in Malay, Javanese and Bugis, consists of predominantly literary, historical and legal texts, with only about 30 theological works including only a few in Arabic.



Detail of the calligraphic opening lines of copies of the Arabic grammar al-Ajurumiyya from two East Javanese Islamic boarding schools, on the left from Pondok Pesantren Tarbiyya al-Talabah, Keranji, British Library EAP061/1/4, and on the right from Pondok Pesantren Langitan, Widang, Tuban, British Library EAP061/2/15, digitised in 2006 by Amiq Ahyad.

The successful applicant will be encouraged to take advantage of the unique research opportunities afforded by the EAP collections. This may include investigating not individual texts, as has usually been the case with dissertations on Malay manuscripts, but groups of texts, whether demarcated by genre, place, social milieu, or material features such as binding, illumination or palaeography and calligraphy. The study may also investigate the EAP collections as sets of textslibraries, or remnants of librariesfrom known geographical and social locations. That both the EAP collections and the Malay manuscript holdings of the British Library are digitised opens up a variety of digital humanities approaches.

Applicants should have, or be about to complete, a Masters degree in a relevant discipline, and must have knowledge of Malay/Indonesian and/or Arabic, and ideally proficiency in reading Arabic script. Applicants are also required to meet the UK Research Councils standard UK residency criteria (please refer to p.17 of the RCUK website for further details). For details on how to apply, see here.

Further reading:

For an example of a study of a manuscript digitised through EAP, see:

Mulaika Hijjas, Marks of many hands: annotation in the Malay manuscript tradition and a Sufi compendium from West Sumatra. Indonesia and the Malay World, July 2017, 45 (132), pp. 226-249.

Blogs:

26 February 2014, Indonesian and Malay manuscripts in the Endangered Archives Programme

14 April 2014, Sermons in the Malay worldUPDATED

President Donald Trump is seeking a roughly 5 percent cut to the U.S. Department of Educations budget for fiscal 2019 in a proposal that also mirrors his spending plan from last year by seeking to eliminate a major teacher-focused grant and to expand school choice.

Trumps proposed budget, released Monday, would provide the Education Department with $63.2 billion in discretionary aid , a $3.6 billion cutor 5.3 percent from current spending levels, for the budget year starting Oct. 1. Thats actually less of a cut than what the president sought for fiscal 2018, when he proposed slashing $9.2 billionor 13.5 percentfrom the department.

In order to achieve those proposed spending cuts, the president copied two major education cuts he proposed last year: the elimination of Title II teacher grants and the 21st Century Community Learning Centers. Those two cuts combined would come to about $3.1 billion from current levels. Overall, 39 discretionary programs would be cut, eliminated, or streamlined.

Decades of investments and billions of dollars in spending have shown that an increase in funding does not guarantee high-quality education, the Office of Management and Budget states in the budget document. While the budget reduces the overall federal role in education, the budget makes strategic investments to support and empower families and improve access to postsecondary education, ensuring a future of prosperity for all Americans.

On the other side of the ledger, Trump is seeking $1 billion in grants for states for private and public school choice programs called Opportunity Grants. This new funding could also help districts that elect to participate in the Every Student Succeeds Acts weighted-funding pilot, which would allow federal, state, and local funding to follow students to the public school of their choice. Trump also wants $500 million in federal charter school funding, an increase of roughly 50 percent from current spending levels, which is also the same as his first budget blueprint.

Meanwhile, funding for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act state formula grants would remain the same ($12.8 billion), as would funding for Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education programs ($1.1 billion). And Title I funding for disadvantaged students, the biggest single K-12 program at the department, is pretty much flat-funded at about $15.4 billion.

Too many of our children are still unprepared, despite billions of dollars injected into the system with the goal of improving the outcomes, Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos said in remarks Monday at the department to representatives from education groups.

STEM also gets some love: The budget provides a path forward to spend $200 million on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education. This includes $180 million in funding for the Education Innovation and Research program, as well as $20 million in new STEM grants. The president announced this issue as a priority last September .

And the Title I set-aside states could use for Direct Student Servicesthink things like course choice and accelerated courseswould increase from 3 to 5 percent. However, only Louisana and New Mexico have shown an interest in using this set-aside under ESSA.

The budget proposes using the existing school climate transformation grant program to address the effects of opioids on students and schools. It would provide $43 million from a new cohort of grantees. The programs cost this fiscal year is $68 million.

The budget proposes giving priority to applicants that describe how they would use funds to address the opioid epidemic, which would include at a minimum activities to prevent opioid abuse by students, and could also address the mental health needs of students who are negatively impacted by family or community members who are (or have been) opioid abusers. Similar to current recipients, grantees would use the funds evidence-based strategies to improve school climate and student behavior.

The Presidents Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis has recommended school-based strategies for addressing the epidemic, including an interview-based student drug screening model known as SBIRT.

Other programs to be scrapped: The proposal seeks to eliminate a slew of other programs, many of which are popular in Congress. That includes the $400 million Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants, or Title IV of the Every Student Succeeds Act, which districts can use for health, arts, school climate, technology, and other purposes. It would also ax the $73 million Promise Neighborhoods program, which helps districts pair academics with other services, such as health, and the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, a nearly $340 million program that helps get low-income and first generation students ready for college.

And it would zero out a trio of research programs totaling $140 million, including State Longitudinal Data Systems, Comprehensive Centers, and Regional Educational Laboratories. Also on the chopping block: the $190 million Comprehensive Literacy Development Grants, which help support reading programs; the $12 million Javits Gifted Education Program; and two programs geared towards Alaskan and Native Hawaiian Education, totaling more than $60 million.

And on the early childhood education front: The proposed budget would scrap the $250 million Preschool Development Grant program, which helps states develop or expand pre-school programs for four-year olds from low and moderate income families. The program is a huge priority for Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash.

It would also include a modest boost for the Head Start program of $85 million over the fiscal year 2018 ask, and $22 million over fiscal year 2017 levels. That brings the funding for Head Start to $9.275 billion. The Office of Head Start said earlier this month that it was delaying a plan to lengthen the Head Start day and year because the program doesnt have enough funding to do so without making major cuts to slots.

Keep this in mind about the 2019 budget: Things are even more muddled than usual, because Congress hasnt yet finalized appropriations for fiscal 2018. To stave off yet another government shutdown, lawmakers recently extended fiscal 2017 spending levels, and theyve also agreed to raise spending caps on domestic discretionary programs that include education. Fiscal 2019 is due to start on Oct. 1.

But how seriously should you take this budget blueprint any way? If historys any guide, it wont go anywhere in Congress, where lawmakers are not in the habit of just rubber-stamping presidents spending plans. The top Republican on the Senate subcommittee overseeing the Education Departments appropriations, Sen. Roy Blunt of Missouri, wasnt shy about sharply criticizing Trumps 2018 spending plan for the department when U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos testified in its defense last year. And the last plans signature initiativesthree different school choice expansionshave been all but ignored.

Trumps fiscal 2018 budget plan for education would have cut the biggest percentage of Education Department funding since President Ronald Reagans proposed reduction of 35.7 percent in his fiscal 1983 blueprint.

However, as we noted last week, the budget does signal the presidents priorities when it comes to education . The Trump administration could act on its top issues outside the budget process.

Reactions Mixed

The American Federation for Children, a prominent school choice advocacy group, praised the budget blueprint for putting more decision-making power into the hands of families.

We support a competitive grant program to complement what states are currently doing to create more and better educational options for families and children, and we support the increased investment in charter schools, AFC President John Schilling said in a statement, adding that he hoped Congress would push for other forms of choice, including education savings accounts and vouchers for active-duty military families. (DeVos is the former chairwoman of the federation.)

And trying once again to get rid of Title II and after-school programs got the approval of Lindsey Burke, the director of the Center for Education Policy at the Heritage Foundation, which backs choice and a small federal footprint in K-12:

However, on the other side, the National Coalition for Public Education said it was greatly disappointed in the push to expand private school choice.

The administration should be focused on strengthening our public schools, which educate 90 percent of our students, rather than promoting private school vouchers. Vouchers divert desperately needed resources away from the public school system to fund the education of a

few voucher students in private, often religious schools, the coalition, which includes groups like the National PTA and the American Federation of Teachers, said in a statement.

And the AFT savaged the proposed overall spending reduction, with President Randi Weingarten saying this in a statement: By putting forth a budget that includes the same cruel cuts as last year, Trump, DeVos and Vice President Pence show that they have failed to learn anything.

This post has been clarified to better explain how this years Head Start funding request compares to prior years.

Assistant Editor Alyson Klein and Staff Writer Evie Blad contributed to this post.

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Offline classes to resume in University of Delhi from tomorrow, know more here Practical classes for undergraduate and postgraduate students in the final year will restart in the offline

Alert: Andhra Pradesh EAPCET result announced, check details here This examination is the prerequisite for admission into various professional courses offered in university/

Alert: First round of UPJEE (Polytechnic) counselling begins today The first round of registration and one-time payment of fee for the UP state candidates will be open betweenSince Puerto Rico was devastated by Hurricane Maria five months ago, people have been drawing parallels between the island and New Orleanswhere more than 10 years ago the destruction of Hurricane Katrina paved the way for a complete overhaul of its education system.

Today, almost all of the citys schools are charters.

Comparisons between New Orleans and Puerto Rico gained even more traction this week after Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rossello announced plans to file legislation that would shake up K-12 education in the U.S. territory and inject school choice into the system.

But it would be premature to call Puerto Rico the next New Orleans, despite the similarities. Yes, Puerto Ricos schools were struggling mightily before they were devastated by a hurricane as was the case in New Orleans. And yes, some of Puerto Ricos leaders say they intend to use charter schools to help retool and rebuild the education system.

But while there are opportunities for school choice expansion in the territoryRossello's plan also calls for school vouchersthere are major hurdles to doing anything on the order of what transpired in New Orleans.

Charter Schools Face Big Challenges in Puerto Rico

Charter schools have been cast for a far smaller role in the Rossello's proposed education overhaul than they were in New Orleans, at least for now. Puerto Ricos education secretary told The 74 that the government plans to start with 14 charter schools divided evenly among the territorys seven education regions. The governors plan allows for both new charter school campuses to open up, but also for charter operators to take over existing district schools.

There are currently no charter schools in the territory.

I think one of the big hurdles is they dont have much of a history with charter schools, said Todd Ziebarth, the vice president for state advocacy for the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.

Louisiana, by contrast, had allowed charter schools to operate in the state for almost a decade before Hurricane Katrina washed out New Orleans. That experience helped shape its policies in New Orleans, said Ziebarth.

An existing charter sector also helped attract high-profile charter school networks and other people in the education reform industry to New Orleans, said Douglas Harris, the director of the Education Research Alliance for New Orleans at Tulane University.

Some of the relationships were already built, and once the policy design took shape, it became clear that this would be an attractive place to be for charter operators, said Harris.

Post Katrina New Orleans turned out to be a huge draw for young, ambitious workers who wanted to be part of the citys recovery effort (of course, that spurred a different set of issues as many experienced black educators were fired after the storm , decimating the union, and replaced with inexperienced white teachers). Its too soon to know, yet, if Puerto Rico will be the same.

Teach For America, which supplied hundreds of educators to many schools in New Orleans after the hurricane, does not operate in Puerto Rico and has no plans to .



New Orleans education reforms were also driven and overseen by a statewide, turnaround district, called the Recovery School District, which had been created well before the storm hit.

All the institutional infrastructure was in place before Katrina, said Harris.

Although New Orleans is mostly made up independent charter schools and private schools, its still a relatively centralized system compared to other cities with lots of school choices, like Detroit. For example, most schools in the city, including all private schools that accept vouchers, participate in the a single enrollment system.

Is it just going to be a complete free-for-all where vouchers, private schools can just take government funds and accept as many students as they want, and let the chips fall where they may? said Harris. Or is somebody going to come in and try to coordinate a little bit and only allow enough private schools into the system thats commensurate with the number of students they expect to come back, which is more like what they did in New Orleans.



Finally, Puerto Rico will be dealing with the challenges of rebuilding school buildings across the entire territory, which is somewhat isolated from the U.S. mainland, not just a single city. Pre-hurricanes, New Orleans had about one-tenth the number of schools Puerto Rico did.

Paul Pastorek, the Louisiana state superintendent from 2007 to 2011, offered my colleague Andrew Ujifusa this evaluation of Puerto Rico back in October: This problem is many times more difficult than the Katrina problem.

Even if an NGO [non-governmental organization] or nonprofit wanted to help, how do you mobilize arms and legs to go to Puerto Rico to help when it is not close? Pastorek said. People will ask, Will I be able to live and do work there when theres such devastation there? 

This Can Still be a Big Moment for School Choice in Puerto Rico

Even with those potential hurdles, there could still be significant opportunities for charter schools in Puerto Rico, said Ziebarth of the National Alliance.

Part of the original purpose of charter schools is to serve as a laboratory for innovation and to inform broader reform efforts, he said. I think it is a good opportunity to bring one of those original purposes to life. Things are going to be moving parallel so hopefully as theyre creating charter schools theyre learning from them and using those lessons to accelerate whatever improvement efforts theyre doing for the larger school system.

Related stories:



Education Week reporter Andrew Ujifusa has been traveling to Puerto Rico to cover the islands education recovery efforts. You can read the full coverage here .

reporter Andrew Ujifusa has been traveling to Puerto Rico to cover the islands education recovery efforts. You can read the full coverage here . Education Week also reported an in-depth, award-winning series on the reform efforts in New Orleans 10 years after Katrina. You can see that coverage here: The Re-Education of New Orleans

Photo: The flag of Puerto Rico flies in the doorway of Marta Lafontaine elementary and middle school in Utuado, Puerto Rico. The school has been closed since Hurricane Maria devastated the island last fall. Swikar Patel/Education WeekYuexiu Lantern Show, the largest of its kind in Guangzhou, opened in Yuexiu Park on Feb 8. [Photo/Xinhua]

The holiday season is in full swing in Guangzhou, with a wide range of festivities being held throughout the city.

The Yuexiu Lantern Show, the city's largest, opened on Feb 8 at Yuexiu Park with more than 50 giant lanterns and 30 light installations. This is the sixth year that the park has hosted the show, whose lanterns were painstakingly crafted using original designs. The show will last until March 11 and offers visitors a chance to admire the distinctive Lingnan lanterns.

Cantonese Opera shows are performed at a floating flower market in Liwan district on Feb 10. [Photo/ycwb.com]

Liwan district in west Guangzhou also wowed local residents on Feb 10 with a special floating flower market. The event has been held for five consecutive years and consistently attracts thousands of visitors. Apart from selling flowers, the event also features lion dances, Cantonese Opera shows, Ansai waist drum performances from Northwest China, and a special Lingnan dance known as the "Fire dog dance" (a dance which originated among the Yao people in Qingtian county of Huizhou as a form of dog worship). The floating flower market will last until Feb 15, the eve of the Chinese New Year.

The fire dog dance is performed at a floating flower market in Liwan district on Feb 10. [Photo/ycwb.com]



This week we are hearing from the Houston Education Research Consortium (HERC). This post is by Leah Binkovitz (@leahbink ), senior editor for the Kinder Institute for Urban Research (@RiceKinderInst ), and features reflections from Madeline Mavrogordato, Assistant Professor at Michigan State University and co-author of the research for HERC discussed here.

Todays post represents the researcher perspective. Stay tuned: Thursday we will share the practitioners perspective on this research.

With the Houston Independent School District (HISD) facing budget challenges and proposing drastic changes to school funding to promote equity, it is critical to consider research that sheds light on how different student groups have interacted with the districts choice system before moving forward.

As a district of choice, HISD offers magnet programs, charter schools, and other options for students to attend non-zoned schools, with the goal of attracting diverse student bodies. Yet the effectiveness of such efforts to integrate schools has been called into question. For one, many magnet schools have now moved away from holding a specified number of seats for different groups of students, leading to a re-segregation of schools. Secondly, not all groups of students might practice school choice equally. With its significant English learner (EL) student population in mind (just under a third of HISD students are classified as English language learners, according to the Texas Education Agency ), HISD wanted to understand how Houstons school choice policies shape their educational journeys - and if English learners even participate in school choice.

What The Research Examined

In a recent study from the Kinder Institute for Urban Researchs Houston Education Research Consortium , Madeline Mavrogordato and her colleague Julie Harris looked at access to school choice offerings in HISD for English language learners by examining how many of them ended up attending a school outside their designated zoned neighborhood school compared to their peers in the 2012-2013 school year. The study differentiated between current English learners, former English learners, and never English learners. It also looked at other systematic differences between the groups, such as socioeconomic status, and how those might affect access to school choice.

What The Research Found

Current English language learners, the researchers found, were much less likely than their peers to attend non-zoned schools. Significantly, that was not the case for former English language learners. Those students were just as likely as students who had never been classified as English language learners to attend non-zoned schools.

So while only about 33 percent of elementary students classified as English language learners attended a non-zoned school, roughly 46 percent of their peers - for both the former English learner and never English learner group - attended non-zoned schools.

The results were similar in middle school with 34 percent of English learners attending a non-zoned school versus 54 percent of former English learners and 52 percent of students who were never classified that way.

The largest gaps were at the high school level, where 18 percent of students classified as English language learners were enrolled in a school outside their designated zone compared to 43 and 45 percent of former English language learners and students who were never classified as English language learners, respectively.

Current and former English learners were significantly more likely to qualify for free or reduced- price lunch than their never English learner peers; however, the researchers analyses revealed that current English learner status continued to be negatively related to students probability of enrolling in a non-zoned school even when controlling for family income and other variables.

Why is that? Mavrogordato said there were several explanations, with language being a significant one: "[These students] parents have a language barrier and learning about schools and gathering the ... information they would need to inform choosing a non-zoned school for their child is just more difficult for these parents.

Though the district does offer information about its choice program in Spanish, Vietnamese, and Arabic in addition to English, and it hosts regular fairs for parents seeking information, language can still be a significant barrier.

Theres also an issue of cultural familiarity or cultural literacy, Mavrogordato said, meaning that in the U.S., this idea of school choice is pretty well-known and has been underway for quite some time in various forms. But for parents who are immigrants from other places, that may be a completely foreign concept.

Implications For Policy And Practice

So what can be done? In addition to reaching out to families, Mavrogordato and Harris propose specific policy changes, including moving to a system of controlled choice. The district used to have such a system that worked to enroll a certain number of black and Latino students in its magnet schools but it did away with that policy in 1997 after the district was sued over white students being denied admission to two of the districts vanguard magnet programs on the basis of race. Though equity is often part of the goal of these magnet and choice programs, many districts have shied away from race-based or race-conscious policies in recent years in light of similar court cases.

But the authors argue factoring in a students language status could likely be used without legal challenge, a move that the district later instituted for qualification to secondary magnet programs.

I think that choice systems can be structured in ways that are going to serve the students that need the most help, said Mavrogordato. Thats really what Im trying to look at in [this research].

Previous blog posts by the Houston Education Research Consortium:Mattis admits: There are some PKK shifting to Afrin

US' Mattis said that Turkey had legitimate security concerns along border with Syria and US would do not dismiss.

US Defense Secretary James Mattis on late Sunday acknowledged that some members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)  the US-backed terror organization dominated by YPG  had shifted to the Afrin district amid Turkeys ongoing military operation.

"The distraction of what's going on up in Afrin right now, which is drawing off some of the Syrian Democratic Forces, which have got about 50 percent." Mattis told reporters during his flight to Europe, adding that the percentage could be less or more.

TERROR-SUPPORTER MATTIS ACCUSED TURKEY

They have legitimate security concerns, and we do not dismiss one bit of that, along that border with Syria. he stated, adding that Washington will continue to work closely with Turkey.





Mattis also reiterated that Ankara has real security concerns in the region, describing Turkey as the only NATO ally currently facing an active insurgency.

The Pentagon had previously stated that some SDF elements were shifting but did not specify where they were headed.

The PKK/YPG in Afrin has launched hundreds of rocket attacks on Turkey across the border, including dozens since late last month, killing and injuring many civilians.Inimitable fashion designer Vera Wang is behind some of the best red carpet moments ever, but she's also made her mark somewhere cooler: the ice.

An Icy Disposition

Wang creates wedding gowns so fabulous the bride must alter herself to fit them, but she's also had a hand in some of the most incredible figure skating moments of all time.

The designer has been making some of the most memorable costumes worn by skaters at the Olympic Games for the past two decades and counting.

"It's not for the faint of heart. If one strap were to break, or if the beading on the sleeve gets caught when they turn, their whole Olympics is over. That is how serious it is," Wang explained to PEOPLE.

It would be difficult to imagine anyone more perfect, or iconic, creating these looks than Wang, a previous figure skater herself.

"I understand the physics. I think people are fooled by the nature of the costumes and the ease and the musicality and the choreography. It is an extreme sport," she said.

Wang was even, rightfully, inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame for her eye-catching work in the sport. In spite of how demanding the job can be, the designer relishes the challenge.

Making Her Mark

This year's contributions include costumes for American figure skating champion Nathan Chen, at the upcoming Seoul Winter Olympics on Feb. 9.

"I am so honored that Vera and her team will be creating my costumes. Vera's knowledge and understanding of figure skating along with her extraordinary talent for design make this collaboration incredible," Chen said in a press release.

Wang was primarily known as a wedding dress designer when she was initially tapped to create figure skating costumes for the legendary Nancy Kerrigan. Wang was apprehensive, upon being approached by Kerrigan's trainer, but ended up designing a costume for the skater for four years, including two notable Olympics appearances.

Their collaboration made headlines at the time, due to the insanely expensive costumes. It was a particularly big talking point considering Kerrigan's rival, Tonya Harding, was sporting handmade costumes for the competitions.

Wang subsequently designed costumes for Michelle Kwan, with the skater even wearing Vera Wang for her wedding in 2013, due to their super-close relationship.

The legendary designer had some difficulty in creating designs for male figure skater Evan Lysacek for the 2010 Olympics, as she struggled to figure out the shape for a man's costumes.

Wang saw it as a considerable challenge because she had to quadruple stitch the seams. Naturally, she aced it, hence, the task of creating Chen's costumes this year will be a cinch.Republican Congress hopeful Paul Nehlen draws criticism after posting a Twitter photo of Meghan Markle as the Cheddar Man. Nehlen's account was suspended following the controversy.

The original tweet featured an image of the Cheddar Man superimposed over Prince Harry's mixed race fiancee.

Geneticists recently revealed that the nearly 10,000-year-old Cheddar Man, which is known as Britain's oldest complete skeleton, would have had dark skin, black hair, and blue eyes. The research made waves for overturning often-held assumptions that early Britain founders are fair-skinned.

Nehlen Lands In Hot Water

With the Cheddar Man a hot topic in social media, Nehlen jumped on the subject with disastrous results.

The Republican Party politician, who is a candidate for a seat in the Congress, posted an image of Markle with the Cheddar Man pasted over her face. In the photo, Prince Harry was beside the Suits actress.

"Honey, does this tie make my face look pale?" Nehlen wrote in the caption.

The tweet instantly spurred backlash for the politician, who was accused as racist for the controversial photo. Nehlen quickly became viral, sparking outrage from both sides of the pond.

Markle's Suits co-star Patrick J. Adams came to his colleague's defense, calling the politician "sad and sick" for his actions.

Oh @pnehlen - youre a sad and sick man with no sense of shame or class. Get a life. And dont go anywhere near MM - shes got more power, strength, honor and compassion in her fingernail than youll ever know in this lifetime. Way above your weight class.  Patrick J Adams (@halfadams) February 10, 2018

Before his Twitter account was suspended over the controversy, Nehlen responded to the negative reaction with an explanation for his behavior.

"Publishing an article disappearing whites or dispossessing whites of their homelands is wrong; made worse when claiming 'science' to 'prove' whites never existed," he wrote in a tweet. "I made a joke of it. It's not a laughing matter, so I chose to laugh about it."

Courting Controversy

The Republican challenger is known for his controversial statements, particularly on Twitter. Last January, Nehlen posted a list of his critics' names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses, then infamously said that the majority of them are Jewish. The people on the list reached out to his campaign to complain.

"Of those 81 people, 74 are Jews, while only 7 are non-Jews," Nehlen wrote on Twitter.

The list has been branded as anti-Semitic, and some of the private citizens on the list revealed that they've been harassed over Nehlen's tweet.Sony Pictures apologizes over the insensitive food allergy joke in Peter Rabbit, which is the subject of criticism in an online petition to boycott the film.

The Apology

In a joint statement, Sony Pictures and the filmmakers addressed the controversy surrounding the animated movie, which came out on Feb. 9. They expressed their regret and admitted that they should not have made light of a character's food allergy.

The character, a farmer named Mr. Thomas McGregor (voiced by Domhnall Gleeson), is allergic to berries. In the controversial scene, Peter (voiced by James Corden) and his friends are in a fiery feud with the farmer. They attack McGregor with the fruit. They even managed to land one in his mouth and McGregor had to use an EpiPen to treat his allergic reaction. The commotion was all to get the attention of Bea (voiced by Rose Byrne), an animal-loving woman who lives next door.

The filmmakers apologized for including the segment "even in a cartoonish, slapstick way." They expressed their sincere regret for "not being more aware and sensitive" to the issue.

Petitions

Sony Pictures' apology came after the organization Kids With Food Allergies Foundation had slammed Peter Rabbit for the offensive scene. The organization said the scene was unnecessary. The group also pointed out the responsibility of the filmmakers not just to entertain but also educate people on the seriousness of food allergy.

"Portraying anaphylaxis as a joke can cause some people to have a cavalier attitude about food allergies which can put kids with food allergies at risk. We are asking filmmakers to work with us to raise awareness about the seriousness of food allergies, and help us promote positive attitudes and safe environments for kids with food allergies," reads the organization's post.

Kenneth Mendez, president of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, also slammed Peter Rabbit for the food allergy scene. In an open letter sent to Sony Pictures, Mendez mentioned how the filmmakers made light of the seriousness of food allergies, which was "made up for attention" in the movie.

An online petition calling for people to boycott Peter Rabbit has also been making the rounds on social media. A quick search on Twitter using the hashtag "#boycottPeterRabbit shows over 40 people have joined the petition.

- The scene will make you want to vomit, @FoodAllergyBuzz . Sickened @SonyPictures thought that promoting food allergy bullying by Peter and friends would be okay in any movie, no less a childrens movie. Certainly no humor in the situation. #BoycottPeterRabbit  Tom Murray (@thomascmurray) February 10, 2018

@SonyPictures What a disgrace - teaching children it's okay to bully and harass others with food allergies. You obviously have no staff with children who could DIE from food allergies. #attemptedmurder #foodallergies #boycottpeterrabbit  Allison Wells (@OrangeAlli) February 10, 2018On Saturday, Feb. 10th, only nine days after giving birth, Kylie Jenner resurfaced into the world. As previously reported, Jenner welcomed her baby girl Stormi Webster on Feb. 1.

TMZ snapped a few photos of the 20-year-old getting out of a range rover with her best friend, Jordyn Woods. The two were reportedly headed into a building for a meeting in Woodland Hills, California.

In the photos, Kylie could be seen wearing a beige jacket with a black top and black bicycle shorts. The new mom accessorized with grey Jordan sneakers and a black Prada fanny pack.

Although Jenner made sure to cover up, it appears that she has retained her pre-pregnancy body.

A source close to the makeup mogul revealed that she hasn't started working out yet because her main focus right now is Stormi.

"She is eating healthy and taking care of herself," the source stated.

Kylie Gives Birth

Ever since news about Jenner's pregnancy broke in September 2017, she stayed out of the spotlight until officially confirming that she gave birth earlier this month.

On Feb. 4, the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star took to Instagram to announce the arrival of her first child with rapper Travis Scott.

The first time mom posted a sincere message explaining why she chose to keep her pregnancy private.

"I'm sorry for keeping you in the dark through all the assumptions. I understand you're used to me bringing you along on all of my journeys. My pregnancy was one I chose not to do in front of the world." Jenner wrote.

Kylie also shared a documentary-style video, titled "To Our Daughter" that followed her journey to motherhood.

Stormi Webster

Following the arrival of her daughter, Kylie took to Instagram again to reveal her name. The reality star shared a photo of her baby girl's hand wrapped around her finger. She captioned the photo, "Stormi Webster" with an angel emoji.

Now the first time parents are getting adjusted to their bundle of joy.

An insider told E! News that Kylie is still getting adjusted to having a child, but she is very attached to attached to Stormi.

"She honestly just never wants to leave her out of her sight not because she can't trust anyone but because she is just so happy being with her baby," the insider said.

As for Travis, he is also enjoying being a father and has a ton of patience. They are both still learning, but have been getting help from both of their families.Keith Adams, the stunt coordinator who worked on the Kill Bill film series, has spoken up about recent allegations put forth by actress Uma Thurman.

Thurman's On-Set Car Crash

Earlier this month, Thurman took to social media to upload video footage of a car crash she suffered while filming the 2003 Quentin Tarantino film, Kill Bill.

Along with the clip, was a lengthy caption, in which the actress accused the film's producers: Harvey Weinstein, Lawrence Bender, and E. Bennett Walsh, of covering up the accident that permanently damaged her neck and knees.

Although Thurman praised Tarantino for helping her obtain the crash footage after 15 years despite the potential damage it could cause him, she alleged that the filmmaker urged her to perform the stunt herself even though she wasn't comfortable going ahead with it and wanted a stunt double.

The stunt required the Pulp Fiction actress to drive a rattrap convertible through a curvy, sandy road in Mexico at 40 mph. However, the stunt went horribly wrong, Thurman lost control of the vehicle and rammed it into a tree leaving her with permanent injuries.

Stunt Coordinator Addresses Allegations

Adams, whose credits include Spider-Man: Homecoming and Fate of the Furious, has now broken his silence over the incident in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. He told the publication that he and his entire team were not present on set at the time of the crash since there were no stunts scheduled for the day.

He also noted that even though driving a car at 40 mph on a sandy stretch would classify as a stunt, neither Tarantino nor the producers got in touch with him or informed him about their decision to let Thurman take the wheel.

Adams also pointed out that had he been on set, he would not only have insisted using a professional stunt driver but also ensure that the vehicle was in perfect working condition and safe to drive.

"No stunts of any kind were scheduled for the day of Ms. Thurman's accident," Adams said. "All of the stunt department was put on hold and no one from the stunt department was called to set. At no point was I notified or consulted about Ms. Thurman driving a car on camera that day."

"Had I been involved," he added, "I would have insisted not only on putting a professional driver behind the wheel but also insuring that the car itself was road-worthy and safe."Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise's adopted daughter Bella is set to make a name for herself in her own right with a brand new fashion line.

Branding Herself A Superstar

Kidman-Cruise, 25, announced via her website that she's launching her own brand name, BKC, with a selection of super-cool crew-neck T-shirts.

"Bella has been an artist her entire life. Her go-to medium is marker on paper with her inspiration for her artwork drawn largely from friends, fashion, and music," her mission statement reads. "It has been a life-long dream of Bella's to put her art onto clothing; her brand new t-shirt collection is the first glimpse in the realization of this dream."

Kidman Cruise's debut collection boasts a variety of kooky graphic tees on sale for $85 each, which display sketches from her personal artistic portfolio. A monster with googly eyes and a woman with plump red lips and a blunt fringe feature prominently.

The 25-year-old adopted daughter of superstars Kidman and Cruise, who were married from 1990-2001, previously intended to be a makeup artist. She studied art in London but switched her focus after working with Cruise's then-wife Katie Holmes.

Changing Her Focus

Kidman-Cruise worked on Holmes' clothing line back in 2006. This, coupled with her lifelong passion for art and design, brought her back to fashion design.

She previously went by the moniker Isabella Cruise but appears to have integrated her mother's surname to brand her fashion line. Kidman Cruise lived with her father in L.A. following his split from Kidman in 2001. She was still a part of the Church of Scientology as of 2015.

That same year, Kidman-Cruise married British I.T. consultant Max Parker in secret. Kidman was quoted at the time as saying she was happy for her daughter, although, she was not in attendance nor was Cruise.

"She, like all mothers, wants her child to be happy, and it surely seems Bella is very happy," the source said at the time.

Superstar actors Kidman and Cruise adopted Bella along with son Connor following a long battle with infertility. Kidman spoke out about how adoption had changed how she felt as a mother.

"Children are children  you'll die for your children. And when you feel that as a parent  that's the unconditional love," she said back in 2011.

Kidman went on to play as an adoptive mother in 2016's Lion opposite Dev Patel, where she received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She spoke at the time about how drawing from her own life experience helped her with the role.

Kidman has two daughters with husband Keith Urban. Cruise also has a daughter, Suri, with Holmes.A deal is a deal. That's what Pretty Little Liars alum Shay Mitchell stated before throwing her top off and running through the streets of LA.

The actress and popular YouTuber made a bet with her assistant that if she hit three million subscribers, she would run through the streets, naked. Well, it happened, and Mitchell stuck to her word.

Shay Mitchell Goes Topless

On her popular YouTube channel, Mitchell uploaded a video, thanking her fan for getting her to the three million mark. In the opening dialogue, Mitchell states that she wanted to do something special for her fans who have been with her from the beginning.

"I can't tell you how much this means to me to have you guys coming along since when I first started the channel is was uncharted territories and now it's just a learning experience every single week," Mitchell stated.

The video then cuts to Mitchell eating in her home when her assistant, Sammy Rosenman, enters with the news that Mitchell now has three million subscribers. Sammy then reminds her boss of a bet she made during their vacation trip in Morocco.

"Do you remember in Morocco, on our Shaycation, you were like, 'I'll run through the street naked when I hit three million subscribers on YouTube.' Do you remember that conversation?" Rosenman asked.

Mitchell, being a woman of her word, did it. After being given a unicorn mask from her assistant, Mitchell shimmies off her pants and top. She then proceeds to run around her block bearing her breast and a pair of underwear that said "nice buns" on the back.

The entire run was captured by Rosenman who followed Mitchell in the car while she ran through her neighborhood, much to the amusement of Rosenman and onlookers who happened to catch Mitchell as she ran topless.

The actress has been an active vlogger since 2011. Mitchell's popular YouTube channel features health and beauty tips, travel, and random moments between her and her assistant.

The 30-year-old played Emily Fields, one of the main five characters on Pretty Little Liars for all seven seasons. The show ended in June 2017.

Mitchell will star in the upcoming thriller Cadaver with costars Stana Katic, Grey Damon, and Nick Thune. She will also appear in the Lifetime series You.

In 2017, Mitchell started her own production company with her manager, David Dean Portelli, and has already signed a deal with Warner Bros. Studios.

Check out the actress's other entertaining videos on her YouTube page.Is Kendall Jenner ready to move on from her successful career in modeling and pursue a new career in the world of acting?

According to a new report, the 22-year-old Keeping Up With the Kardashians star may be following in the footsteps of her longtime friend Cara Delevingne, who quit modeling at the top of her game and began appearing in Hollywood films.

This is something that Kendall has always been interested in, and now shes convinced she can make it happen, a source revealed to Radar Online on Feb. 12.

Last year, Jenner joined the cast of Oceans 8 for a guest appearance in the highly anticipated film and now, she's hoping that the soon-to-be-released movie will open more doors into the industry.

This is the real reason Kendall decided to delete her app and slow down on the modeling front, the insider said.

Several weeks ago, Jenner released her final blog post to her many fans and followers, confirming that she will no longer be sharing updates on her official app. As the Radar Online report explained, Jenner did so after she started to feel anxious at the idea of giving her fans so much access to her life.

In Jenner's announcement about the end of her blog, she said that after over two years connecting with fans, she was looking forward to the next year of her life and planning to change her priorities. Although Jenner didn't reveal what her new priorities would be, Radar Online's source claimed the successful model was referring to her potentially upcoming career change.

Shes serious about this and determined to carve out a legitimate career as an actress, added the source.

Around the time that the reality star quit her app, Jenner opened up about her struggles with anxiety during an interview with Harper's Bazaar magazine.

I wake up in the middle of the night freaking out. Full panic attacks," she revealed. "They wake me up from my sleep, and I need to stand up and I pace and Im freaking out and crying. I dont feel normal and I like to feel as normal as I can.

To see more of Kendall Jenner, tune into new episodes of Keeping Up With the Kardashians on Sundays at 9 p.m. on the E! Network.Idris Elba proposed to his girlfriend, Sabrina Dhowre, over the weekend and the two sparked quite the buzz on the Internet.

Elbas fans immediately hopped on Twitter with hilarious tweets about the heartthrob after officially being off the market.

Loni Love Mourns

Comedian and cohost of the daytime talk show The Real Loni Love might have taken the cake with her response. She posted photos of herself in place of other women who had taken photos with Elba from a photo collage. In one picture, she actually posed next to a picture of the actor. She showed appreciation for her fans who sent their condolences to Love in light of the news.

In another tweet, she settled for being a flower girl but then posted a video of a woman crashing a wedding.

Fans Share Their Heartbreak

One fan was many of those who pointed out that Elba once said he would never tie the knot again after his first two marriages ended. Still, his now-fiancee clearly was able to change his mind somehow. The fan went on to ask how they can get such sauce.

Idris Elbas girl managed to get a proposal out of him despite him vowing to never marry again. Where can I buy such sauce?  kadi (@kxdilu) February 10, 2018

Another woman shared her hilarious response and questioned why there wasnt a ring on her finger after she heard Elba popped the question.

just read "idris elba proposed to his girlfriend" so why do i not see the ring on my finger  hattie (@hattiesoykan) February 10, 2018

One guy even stepped in and said he gave his wife the side eye after her heartbreaking reaction to the news.

My wife seemed a lil too gutted when I told her Idris Elba was off the market...  Cyrus McQueen (@CyrusMMcQueen) February 10, 2018

A fan put out her own press release and said Elbas future wife is the same age as her. She asked for her followers to give her some personal time. I will not be taking any questions, she stated.

idris elba is engaged to someone the same age as me. please respect my privacy in this difficult time, i will not be taking any questions. pic.twitter.com/Tdquo4RoUx  Syar S. Alia (@syarsalia) February 10, 2018

One fan had no words and used a gif of a child crying to express her emotions.

Another did the same but showed actress Sanaa Lathan in a wedding dress wondering where her groom is.

Finding out that Idris Elba got engaged but it wasn't to me pic.twitter.com/atiK1ygANG  Miss L.A.P. (@NyawalTut) February 10, 2018

One fan hinted she was gazing at a photo of Elba as she listened to one of Celine Dions greatest and most emotional hits.

No Im not crying and staring longingly at a picture of Idris Elba while listening to My Heart Will Go On. Why do you ask?  Julie Kedzie (@julesk_fighter) February 10, 2018

Check out more hilarious responses below.

Is Idris Elba divorced yet?  A. Nicole (@ladylikedeuce) February 12, 2018

This the 3rd time Idris Elba been engaged so Im not even gonna trip. Ill just wait my turn. Im the 4th wife  Kelly Alexandria (@_loveKelly) February 12, 2018

So Idris Elba got engaged huh. Im ok, Im fine. pic.twitter.com/PLE0dnpEI6  Fatou Njie (@melanin_bape) February 12, 2018

Idris Elba proposed to his girlfriend and I am so heartbroken because I thought he was my man  medusa (@caitlinlee_) February 12, 2018

Me finding out @idriselba got engaged and it wasnt to me ... pic.twitter.com/F4RklU17Gk  Alexis (@alexissyarb) February 12, 2018

A Shocking Proposal

Elba proposed to Dhowre Saturday just ahead of the screening for the film Yardie. The movie marks his first time sitting in the directors chair. The big moment took place at the Rio Cinema in London. An attendee shared a clip of Elbas big moment that clearly took everyone by surprise.

The two met during the making of his film The Mountain Between Us that was released last year. It was taped in Canada.

The theatre was one of the first to speak on the news.

pic.twitter.com/XRtca1xcv0 Another @riocinema first! Still 5 days to Valentines Day but @idriselba went down on one knee and proposed to his girlfriend live on stage this morning before a preview of his film #Yardie  Rio Cinema (@riocinema) February 10, 2018

Dhowre confirmed the news of the engagement on her own Instagram.This item is available in full to subscribers.

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Otherwise, click here to view your options for subscribing.Two mayors and their internal affairs

By Mark Alexander



There was rightly a lot of focus last week on high-level political corruption by a handful of Democrat deep-state operatives in the FBI and DoJ.

But there is also an insidious infestation of corruption in some local levels of government across the nation  a trend that's on the increase and that belittles the faith and family cultures in those communities. While the exposure of financial corruption at those levels often leads to political resignations, there is an unfortunate trend when moral corruption is exposed: the refusal of the perps to resign.

Call it the "Bill Clinton Effect."

There was a time when Democrats could depend on their Leftmedia outlets to "underreport" moral corruption, as was famously the case with John F. Kennedy. That media gauntlet held for Clinton's early years in office, when his equally ambitious and corrupt spouse, Hillary, defended him against serial and credible charges of rape and sexual assault. Her modus operandi was to assail the character of Bill's accusers and, with the help of a complicit media, to undermine their credibility.

But Clinton's infamous affair with a young White House intern, and his subsequent finger-wagging lies about it, lowered the national bar for political consequences in cases of abject moral corruption.

After President Richard Nixon's 1972 landslide victory over George McGovern, he was caught in a lie. He had no knowledge of the botched break-in of the Democrat National Committee offices in the Watergate complex, but he later lied about the cover-up of that crime. In 1974, he had the decency and humility to resign from office rather than drag the nation through impeachment proceedings  in which he would most likely have been convicted.

But in Clinton's case, which originated unsurprisingly with a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by one of his previous victims, Paula Jones, knowing that he could depend on his 45 fellow Democrats in the Senate to provide him unanimous cover  thus assuring no path to reach the two-thirds majority necessary to convict for perjury and obstruction  he chose impeachment. He was the second U.S. president, after Democrat Andrew Johnson in 1868, to be impeached.

With no Democrats willing to acknowledge the irrefutable evidence that the president of the United States had lied under oath and had obstructed justice, Clinton was acquitted of those charges. However, he did surrender his law license for life, paid fines for perjury and contempt totaling $115,000, and settled with Jones for $850,000. No wonder poor Hillary claimed they where "dead broke" when leaving the White House.

As a consequence of Clinton's impeachment "victory," the national standard for truth and morality was debased, and the effluent of Clinton's debauchery has since trickled down into state and local administrations across the nation.

Tennessee is one of the most conservative states in the nation and a tried-and-true model for establishing and maintaining a conservative GOP majority in the executive and legislative branches of government. But our Democrat-controlled urban centers suffer the same economic and moral blight as the rest of the nation's city centers.

Such is the case in two of our largest cities, Nashville and Chattanooga, where Democrat mayors stand accused of illicit extramarital affairs with subordinates. But, like Bill Clinton, they refuse to resign.

In Chattanooga, Mayor Andy Berke has denied charges of affairs with two of his subordinates. Even with the second affair having been discovered by the subordinate's husband, Berke is still in denial.

Undeterred by credible charges of moral corruption, and with political cover from local Democrats (including his now-departed police chief), in late 2017 Berke arrogantly set his sights on the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Bob Corker.

Unfortunately for Berke, the Democrat Party decided to make "sexual harassment" a centerpiece of its 2018 midterm election strategy, just as it no doubt will for the 2020 presidential election.

As I have noted before, female majorities have elected every Democrat president since 1960 and have been a major force in midterm elections. Democrats are counting on their perennial political calculus that a majority of Demo female voters are emotionally incontinent dupes, lacking the discernment to avoid being co-opted by emotive appeals  in this case regarding the #MeToo "epidemic of sexual assault" across the nation.

Their objective this November is to incite female voter outrage over harassment claims leveled at Donald Trump in order to hang those claims around the necks of Republicans across the nation in order to overturn their Senate and House majorities. (With the House under Democrat control, they can proceed to impeachment of the president  with specific charges yet to be determined.)

In any case, that's a more feasible national political strategy than campaigning against peace and prosperity. But the strategy also made it impossible for Berke to win Corker's Senate seat this year, given the former's alleged history of office affairs. So he's set his sights on Lamar Alexander's Senate seat in 2020.

Berke's political ambitions were complicated further last week by news that Nashville's Democrat mayor, Megan Barry, admitted to an extended extramarital affair with one of her subordinates, police Sgt. Robert Forrest, also married, who was assigned as her 24/7 bodyguard.

Of course, Barry's "confession" came after the evidence was about to be exposed.

Unmitigated narcissism is apparently not limited to male mayors, because Barry, like Berke, is also refusing to resign  though to his credit, Forrest immediately resigned.

According to Barry, "I know that God's going to forgive me." Regarding her constituents, Barry declared, "I can earn back their trust, and we can do the great work for this city that Nashville deserves."

She sounds very confident.

As for what she should have done: "I should have gone to the [police] chief, and I should have said what was going on, and that was a mistake."

So the affair was not the problem until she got caught, but an affair with a subordinate was a problem, and Forrest should have been reassigned? Maybe Berke should've thought of that.

Barry's mayoral bio boasts of "two decades of experience as a corporate executive ... developing and managing ethics programs." So she must be a whiz when it comes to solving ethical problems.

Notably, Barry is also receiving political cover, however unwitting, from her police chief, Steve Anderson, who, as was the case with Berke's former police chief, "serves at the pleasure of the mayor."

Anderson insists, "I know of no rules that have been violated," adding, "We don't try to regulate the private lives of individuals. It's only when one of our specific rules, regulations and policies are violated that we step in."

Apparently, the metro PD needs to add some "specific rules, regulations and policies."

And what does Forrest have to say? "I have enjoyed coming to work each day." Apparently.

"At no time did I ever violate my oath as a police officer or engage in actions that would abuse the public trust." Well, OK then.

Demo voters in Nashville may be dupes, but the state's Democrat Party hacks have an impressive propaganda playbook. It only took them 24 hours to get "WE LOVE OUR MAYOR" billboards up around Nashville.

And within hours of the Barry news breaking, her attorneys sent legal notice to Nashville television and print media managers warning them to look no further into additional #MeToo claims regarding other alleged affairs with subordinates.

(Can you imagine if Democrats cared about #MeToo victims back when Bill Clinton was president, much less when Hillary was running, given her history of smearing her husband's sexual assault victims?)

Barry's resignation may yet be forthcoming, if Nashville's metro city council digs into Barry's metrosexual affairs, and diligently "follows the money," particularly regarding taxpayer-funded travel and expenses. It will be difficult for Forest to deny that his overtime came with fringe benefits.

Today, there are new reports that in 2016, Barry ordered a newly created job that was not in the city's budget for a legal-department lawyer  and the position was filled by Forester's daughter ... the sole candidate considered for the job.

Nothing to see here  move on.

The bottom line in this case, as with Berke, is not to throw stones. We are all sinners, and fortunately when truly repentant, subject to forgiveness.

But Barry is now going to drag both families (and, by extension, all the families in Nashville), through months of sordid details of her affair, with the sole objective of protecting her political ambitions.

And beyond her own ambitions, it is likely that part of Barry's calculus is to protect Berke's ambitions. If Barry demonstrates the decency and humility to resign from office, that would throw Berke under the bus for not having resigned, and that would significantly undermine his 2020 Senate aspirations  perhaps even taking him out of the running.

Meanwhile, as was the case with Bill Clinton, Berke's and Barry's spouses remain dutifully beside them  ostensibly for the "greater political good," but ultimately conveying to their political constituents of all ages an arrogant contempt for the sanctity of marriage and family, which are the foundational building blocks of Republican Democracy.

Finally, it was former Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill (D-MA) who famously declared, "All politics is local," meaning in this case, that not only did the "Clinton Effect" flow down to the local level, but that local corruption of morals can flow up to the national level. In the case of Berke and Barry, hopefully not...

Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post.Martha McSally is worse than Jeff Flake By Rachel Alexander

Arizonas Republican U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake has announced hes not running for reelection, so several candidates have jumped into the open race to replace him. There are currently three frontrunners. GOP Rep. Martha McSally, a combat pilot who served in the U.S. Air Force, former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio, and former Arizona State Senator Kelli Ward. Ward made a name for herself launching an unsuccessful conservative challenge to Sen. John McCain in 2016. McSally is the darling of the GOP establishment. She was elected to Congress in 2014, representing a swing district seat formerly held by Gabrielle Giffords. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell recruited McSally last year as one of several moderates to run for the Senate. We are going to be supporting people who can actually win, he said in his year-end news conference critical of conservative candidates. But we have got some great candidates out there and you're familiar with them, Martha McSally  His Senate Leadership Fund super PAC intends to spend considerable money supporting her run. McSally is a member of the Republican Main Street Partnership, a group of moderate Republicans in Congress. McCain is also a member. Her voting record is less conservative than both Flake and McCain. The Heritage Foundation rated her 61 percent this session. They rated Flake 88 percent and McCain 66 percent. The American Conservative Union gives her a lifetime rating of 66 percent. Flake has a lifetime rating of 93 percent and McCain has 81 percent. FreedomWorks gave her a lifetime score of 60 percent. It rated Flake 93 percent and McCain 69 percent. Mark Levins Conservative Review gives all three of them an F. McSally did not endorse President Trump in the 2016 presidential election. She supports DACA. In 2015, she voted against an amendment to a spending bill that would have ended DACA. In 2017, she sent a letter along with nine other members of Congress to Speaker Paul Ryan, asking him to find a legislative solution to DACA. Three leading conservative organizations oppose her; the Club for Growth, the Senate Conservatives Fund and FreedomWorks. Conservatives have complained about McCains moderate record for years. Recently, theyve been highly critical of Flake too. Why would they elect someone who will be even more frustrating? McSally would be better off serving Arizona in the House, being in a difficult swing district for the GOP to maintain ahold of. McSally is a strong fundraiser so will be a formidable candidate. Polls show she has a reasonable chance at winning the Republican nomination since Arpaio and Ward are splitting the conservative vote. After Arpaio joined the race, Ward dropped to 19 percent in the latest poll. Arpaio came in at 22 percent and McSally at nearly 31 percent. If Trump makes an endorsement, it will make a significant difference. There is a small chance Trump might endorse McSally. He backed Luther Strange over the more conservative Roy Moore in Alabamas Senate race, believing Strange was more electable in the general election. The winner of Arizonas Senate primary will face a formidable challenger in the general. Democratic Rep. Kyrsten Sinema is a relentless campaigner who has positioned herself as a moderate in recent years. There is a concern that Ward is not well-known enough to defeat Sinema. However, at least one poll shows Ward defeating Sinema in the general. Arpaio has been attacked so much through the legal system that there is concern baggage will hurt him in the general. But Arizona is still a fairly red state. The GOP controls both houses of the state legislature, all 11 statewide offices, both U.S. Senate seats and four of the eight U.S. House seats. This past year, Guns & Ammo ranked it the No. 1 state in the country for Second Amendment-friendly laws. Americans United for Life ranked the state No. 1 for pro-life laws. People are tired of lukewarm GOP Senators McCain and Flake. It will come out during the general that Sinema once received the Vladimir I. Lenin award from the Arizona Federation of Taxpayers for being the most far left member of the state legislature. A real conservative can defeat her. Its not necessary to settle for a Republican to the left of McCain and Flake. Rachel Alexander and her brother Andrew are co-Editors of Intellectual Conservative. She has been published in the American Spectator, Townhall.com, Fox News, NewsMax, Accuracy in Media, The Americano, ParcBench, and other publications. HomeLease the OCS  to benefit all Americans By Paul Driessen

Under the current offshore energy program developed during the Obama years, 94% of the nations Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) is off limits to leasing and drilling. Under the Draft Proposed Program (DPP) announced January 4 by Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke, over 90% of OCS acreage and 98% of undiscovered, technically recoverable oil and gas resources in these federal offshore areas (beyond the 3-mile limit of state waters) will be considered for possible future leasing, exploration and development. The Trump-Zinke plan proposes the largest number of lease sales in US history: 19 off Alaska, 7 in the Pacific, 9 in the Atlantic, and 12 in the Gulf of Mexico (where the vast majority of leasing, drilling and production have taken place over the past 65 years). Government experts estimate that these areas could hold 90 billion barrels of oil and 327 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, worth over $6.5 trillion. Shortly after the DPP was presented, Florida Governor Rick Scott contacted the secretary, discussed the plan and issued a statement saying the Eastern Gulf was no longer under consideration. Other governors insisted that areas off their coasts also be eliminated from consideration. Energy companies and others said the Florida decision was premature, and the normal planning process should be followed. Actually, there has been no decision on Gov. Scotts request, and the process is being followed. The Department of the Interior (DOI) and its Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) are still in the midst of their 60-day comment period on the DPP. That will lead to a Proposed Program, Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement and another public comment period. A Proposed Final Program, another EIS, more public input, and eventually a new Five-Year Leasing Plan will follow. Meanwhile, Secy. Zinke will be speaking with coastal state governors and legislators, to hear their concerns, explain the process, and discuss how drilling can be conducted with increasing safety. Somewhere during this long process, new seismic surveys should be conducted, to identify and interpret subsurface structures that could contain oil and/or natural gas. The last Atlantic region surveys were 30 years ago, and other areas were never surveyed. Oil companies need high quality data to determine whether an area has enough potential to warrant bidding on a lease. The BOEM needs the best possible data to make informed decisions on which areas should be kept in or dropped out of the planning process  and later on whether bids reflect an areas potential value or should be rejected. Since companies may be reluctant to spend many millions on seismic for areas that may never be made available for leasing, creative incentives may have to be developed to get that vital information. Leasing and drilling would come only in some areas, only after this entire process has been completed. The 1969 Santa Barbara and 2010 Deepwater Horizon blowouts are indelibly etched in our memories, even though these two spills are the only ones in some 1.3 million wells drilled in state and OCS waters since 1969 where significant oil reached shore and caused serious environmental damage (which nature slowly but surely repaired). They show why public concerns about oil spills must be heard and addressed. Neither of these major spills (nor any of the other dozen instances of lost well control involving more than 50 barrels of spilled oil since 1969) should have happened  just as car, train, airliner and other accidents should never happen. They happened because of human frailties and failures: in technologies, equipment maintenance, vigilance, training, and timely operator and regulator reactions to unfolding crises. Thats why offshore drilling and production operators, in conjunction with state and federal regulators, are doing much more to prevent future accidents, including tougher standards, better training and equipment maintenance, improved blowout preventers and oil spill response equipment, and establishing a Center for Offshore Safety to ensure best practices and constant improvement in these and other areas. Seismic practices are also steadily improving, minimizing impacts on marine mammals, fishing activities and military operations. For example, gradually increasing sound levels allows whales and porpoises to leave an area if they become uncomfortable, trained marine mammal observers on survey vessels watch for animals and order shutdowns if necessary, and surveys are coordinated with Navy officials. One of the most fascinating aspects of offshore production platforms (rigs) is the artificial reefs they create on support structures beneath them. Ive been scuba diving beneath California and Gulf of Mexico rigs, fished off them, written professional papers and magazine articles about the reefs, and produced a documentary film about this phenomenon and the process of turning rigs into permanent reefs once they are no longer producing oil or gas. The amount and variety of marine found there is simply astounding. Vibrant arrays of colorful sea anemones, corals, sponges and shellfish latch onto platform legs, providing habitats and food for crabs and lobsters and attracting legions of fish of every conceivable species. Gulf rigs provide homes for Caribbean species that couldnt exist in this vast mud-bottom region that Mississippi River sediments created. Because they are in such a nutrient-rich zone, California platforms host scallops the size of dinner plates, mussels six inches long and starfish nearly three feet across! Fishing, shrimping, tourism and military ops continue to thrive in the Gulf, among hundreds of rigs. And yet some say they dont even want to see a few dozen oil platforms three to twenty miles off Atlantic coast beaches. How do they feel about hundreds or thousands of 400-foot wind turbines a thousand feet to three miles offshore? That is whats being discussed to replace fossil fuels and nuclear in electricity generation. Those huge turbines would chop up seabirds that will sink out of sight and mind; create obstacle courses for pleasure, military and commercial shipping; and emit constant low level noise that will interfere with aircraft as well as whale and porpoise sonar navigation and communication. After taxes, OCS operations provide the second largest source of revenue to the US Treasury. Some of this goes to the Land and Water Conservation Fund for environmental programs. However, OCS revenues fell from $18 billion in 2008 to $2.5 billion in 2016  even as state offshore oil and gas revenues actually rose during the same period. This decline was partly because of lower oil and gas prices, but largely because the Obama Administration issued so many regulations and delays, but so few leases and permits Gulf Coast states also share in OCS revenues, totaling billions of dollars over the years. Atlantic Coast States should enjoy revenue sharing, if leasing, drilling and production take place off their shores. The US Energy Information Administration projects that oil and gas will still supply two-thirds of the USAs energy three decades from now. OCS resources developed under this new plan will come online as current and near-term deposits are being depleted. Those resources belong to all Americans. It is the responsibility of state, local and federal governments to help ensure that America knows what oil and gas resources might exist off our shores, so that we can make informed decisions about developing the best prospects  while safeguarding marine and coastal habitats, tourism and other values. East and West Coast states have enormous demands for oil and gas, to fuel tourism and other sectors. They should have full roles in discussions, input, planning, decision-making, oversight, inspections and other aspects of offshore oil and gas operations. But they should help meet their own and US energy needs and should not be able to short-circuit or veto the process  or to block OCS or other development in Alaska or the Central or Western Gulf of Mexico, or elsewhere, if those states support leasing and drilling. OCS oil and gas are essential for Americas long-term energy security. They are the common heritage of all Americans. These resources will support economic growth, investment and manufacturing, create thousands of new jobs, and ensure reliable, affordable energy for manufacturers, businesses, hospitals, schools, tourism, farming, and poor, minority and blue-collar families. We should let the planning process move forward  and make sure we drill and produce this energy safely. Paul Driessen is senior policy analyst for the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow (www.CFACT.org) and author of books and articles on energy, the environment and human rights. HomePosted 2/12/18

Dallas County is home to about 50,000 head of beef and dairy cattle, making animal agriculture the countys primary industry.

With 217,912 acres devoted to farming, county farmers annually Can Palestinian ports be developed in Gaza to relieve the humanitarian crisis? By Pinhas Inbari

In mid-January 2018, Israel destroyed a Hamas attack tunnel that passed under the Kerem Shalom crossing into Israeli territory and from there into Egypt. The event sparked a debate in Israel about the proper policy on the border crossings to and from Palestinian territories. The issue of the crossings had also been the focus of the reconciliation process between Fatah and Hamas that was renewed in November 2017, particularly with regard to the Rafiah (Rafah) crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt. An effort was made to work out a form of regulation for this crossing. Egypt controls it, and most of the time it is closed. The aim of the reconciliation process was to create a situation in which the crossing could operate regularly. In an interview to France TV 24, Egyptian President Sisi said: The purpose of the Palestinian reconciliation is to prevent extremism from growing among the second and third generations. The Palestinian Authority is capable of running the Gaza Strip, opening the crossings, and dealing with the situation in Gaza. The Rafah crossing is one of the crossings, there are international agreements [concerning it], and bringing the PA there again is part of restoring the traffic there and part of ending the terror in Sinai. According to PA sources, Egypts position on the issue of the Rafiah crossing was closer to that of Hamas than to Ramallahs. Hamas wanted to participate in administering the crossing, whereas Ramallah wanted exclusivity. Egypt, the sources said, also wanted to preserve a role for Hamas, so that Hamas would be able to help Egypt with its war on ISIS terror in Sinai. Now that the Fatah-Hamas reconciliation initiative has failed, the situation remains as it has been: sporadic, unregulated opening and closing of the crossing by Egypt, with Hamas personnel on the Palestinian side even though the crossing was officially handed over to the PA. The Rafiah crossing is the only one through which people pass to an Arab country and from there to the world at large. The Erez crossing, on the northern side of Gaza, enables people to pass into Israel but not to an Arab country and not to the world. The number of those who cross through Erez into Israel and from there to the world is very small. The website of the civil-society NGO, Gisha, which helps people pass into and out of Gaza, reports that complicated bureaucracy is involved. The question of the Rafiah crossing is linked to the issue of the crossings in general and to the issue of a port for Gaza, which would actually be a maritime crossing. As we will see, some of the alternatives for a port for Gaza are integrally related to the land crossings. This issue involves two aspects: the passage of goods and the passage of people. Hamas takeover of Gaza in 2007, which ousted the PA and left Hamas as the sole ruler, was a turn for the worse for the Palestinians, fostering the crisis that the attempted reconciliation was supposed to overcome. Two problems resulted from the Hamas takeover. One concerns security; the other concerns who is the legitimate party to operate the crossings and is supposed to operate the seaport when the time comes: Hamas, the ruler on the ground, or the PA, which the world recognizes as the legitimate government in Gaza as well? Hamas conquest of Gaza is the point of departure for considering the issue of the port. The divide between Gaza and the West Bank and the sanctions that have been imposed on Hamas have given rise to a widespread anti-Israeli narrative about a blockade of Gaza, as if Israel is strangling Gaza. It was this narrative that inspired the various flotillas, one of which caused a major crisis in relations between Israel and Turkey. While Israel defines Hamas as a terror organization, Egypt has avoided defining Hamas as such. Although Egypt conducts ad hoc pragmatic relations with Hamas, it still views the PA in Ramallah as the Palestinians legitimate representative, and it wanted only the PA to be involved in officially administering the crossings. The arrangements with Hamas were ad-hoc only. Those arrangements made possible only sporadic openings of the Rafiah crossing, very much unlike the official regulation that only Ramallah is supposed to conduct. Although the reconciliation talks eventually collapsed for many reasons, Palestinian sources cite several main causes: the lack of funding to pay expenses of the implementation such as salaries; the failure of a sulh (settling of differences) that occurred between the families of those killed in the battles between Fatah and Hamas; and the PA security forces fear for their safety were they to deploy in Gaza, including at the border crossings. Saudi Arabia refused to pay the expenses of the reconciliation, and Egypt had no answer for the economic issue. Regarding the West Bank security personnels fear of working in Gaza, however, the Egyptians proposed that the PA recruit its security personnel from among the residents of Gaza. Hussein al-Sheikh, a senior Fatah official who took part in the talks, reportedly proposed solving this problem by transferring the operations from Rafiah to Nitzana on the Egyptian-Israeli border. He denied the report, but this should be understood in light of the West Bank security operatives fears about being deployed in Gaza. The other Gaza crossings, Kerem Shalom and Erez, face Israel. Like Egypt, Israel has adjusted to a reality in which Hamas is the party on the other side of the border, taking an ad hoc approach as Egypt does with Rafiah. Israel, too, has accepted  de facto, though not de jure  Hamas presence across the border. A difference between Israel and Egypt is that whereas the latter does not allow a regularized arrangement with Hamas, in Israels crossings there is great regularity and a very large transit of goods. Another difference is that whereas the Rafiah crossing is intended only for the passage of people, Israels crossings are for goods only (Kerem Shalom) as well as a very small amount of people, mainly foreigners, and by a minuscule number of Gazans. In the current situation, there is no regulation of the passage of people to or from Gaza. Sources in the Israeli defense establishment said there had been an attempt to regulate the passage of Gazans to Jordan through Israel. Jordan, however, refused to admit them and the issue has fallen off the agenda. Alternative arrangements were not considered. Exceptions in this context are arranged by the abovementioned Gisha organization, which was able, through great effort, to arrange for young Gazans to leave for studies abroad. The Al Jazeera channel has given great attention to the Palestinians desire to emigrate. Amid the public Palestinian and international discussion of Gazan Palestinians desire to emigrate, a system of exit and entry in both directions needs to be devised. Considering that Gaza is controlled by Hamas, a terror organization, the system must include the necessary security arrangements. Providing a Port for Exit by Sea The issue of the crossings is closely linked to the issue of the port. So long as there is no port within Gaza itself, the alternative solution is a port outside of Gaza, in Israel, or in Sinai, and such a solution would have to involve the land crossings. Due to the lack of a solution regarding a port for the Palestinians, Israel is stigmatized for imposing a closure on Gaza. The desire to remove this stigma has led security and political officials to seek a suitable solution for a Gaza port. For example, the idea of building an island off the coast of Gaza, which would serve as both a seaport and an airport, was the brainchild of the late Meir Dagan, who was then the head of the Mossad. Current Transportation Minister and Intelligence Minister Yisrael Katz is also interested in the idea and is now its main advocate. During Radio Palestines day of broadcasts commemorating the visit to Gaza of Prime Minister Rami Hamdallahs Palestinian Authority government, supposedly with the aim of taking the reins of government, the problem of entry and exit from Gaza kept popping up. When the stations broadcasters interviewed young Gazans about what they expected from the reconciliation, many said, to enable us to leave. While in the past, young Gazans had called Gaza the worlds biggest prison, in these interviews they called it hell. Some of the Palestinian ministers in the entourage told Radio Palestine that one of the governments main goals would be to create such conditions that young Gazans would no longer want to emigrate. Israeli security sources said that in the past when there were no fences between Israel and Jordan, young Gazans would make their way overland to Jordan. The result was a community of young Gazan illegal residents numbering tens of thousands in Jordan. Because of severe difficulties in coping with the phenomenon, Jordan prevented Israel from providing safe passage for further migration into its territory. Hamas website, however, claimed that the reason Jordan prevented the arrangement was that Israel conditioned it on the Gazans not being able to return. Severe Problems Plague Gaza Sources in Gaza privately told us that two main problems are afflicting the Gazans and creating the sense of suffocation there: high unemployment and a shortage of electricity. There are, of course, other severe problems as well, like the untreated sewage and the poor quality of the drinking water, but unemployment and electricity are at the top of the list. According to the PAs official news agency, unemployment among young Gazans stands at 41 percent. The major advantage of a port is that it could provide Gazans with jobs. Israel agreed to supply Gaza with electricity in order to operate the Gaza sewage facility and desalination plant, in accordance with the agreements signed by Israels Water Authority with Gaza Electricity Distribution Company. Electricity paid by the Palestinian Authority is now provided by Israel for only four hours a day, and our sources in Gaza said that this effectively paralyzes the Strip. For example, in a typical office, not one of the workers is occupied with his work but rather with how his wife at home is managing with the electricity allotment, and whether he will have a hot meal or be able to wash when he gets home. In the buildings with high floors, there is a problem of elevators. Yes, there are also generators, but there is a problem with turning them on every time someone has to take the elevator. What about emergency situations, when you have to send someone to the hospital, and there is no elevator? Electricity regulation is connected to the Rafiah crossing because the electricity cables from Egypt run through it. The electric lines from Egypt are also irregular, with many stoppages, and the supply from Egypt is not dependable. Israeli security sources stressed that improving the situation in Gaza, including relieving the sense of suffocation, is an Israeli security interest because it could prevent an internal explosion that would probably affect Israel. Planning, however, is concentrated on the movement of goods, and not the movement of people, the sources admitted. Encouragement to Leave for Employment Security sources say that tens of thousands of young Gazans have visas for places abroad but no way to leave Gaza. These young people have been accepted at universities abroad or for work. Their level of frustration is especially high. The human rights organization, Human Rights Watch, deals in its latest report with the closure of Gaza and, as is its practice, places most of the blame on Israel. But HRW also notes the role of Egypt and the Palestinian Authority. For our purposes, it places special emphasis on the passage of people to and from the Gaza Strip and places Israel in charge of solving the problem. The Director of the Ministry for Strategic Affairs, Ram Ben-Barak, also stressed the issue of the passage of people. No one works in the Gaza Strip. Its a crazy situation. No work. Let people and goods go out under control and supervision. You need to take risks in this regard. I recommended a dock in Cyprus or an island to provide employment and hope. The coordinator of government activities in the territories (COGAT), Maj. Gen. Yoav Poli Mordechai, together with advisors Michael Milstein and Yotam Amitai, describes the young generations frustration as explosive, only getting worse, and as threatening both Hamas and Israel. It threatens Hamas because the group is no longer seen as meeting the Gazans needs; it threatens Israel because, due to Hamas incitement, it is seen as the source of the distress. Mordechai does not suggest that freedom to leave and enter Gaza is a way to help this generation, but, instead, an economic Marshall Plan is necessary to provide a horizon of hope within Gaza. The PA, for its part, is aware of the young peoples distress, and not surprisingly is encouraging them to emigrate. One of the first acts of Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah upon taking office was to urge the Gulf States to provide jobs to Palestinian youth. However, only Qatar agreed, offering 20,000 jobs in coordination with the PA. The opening of Qatar to Palestinian labor migration sparked a controversy in the PA. Whereas the young Gazans were not concerned about leaving, only about finding work, young West Bankers saw a sinister plot to empty the refugee camps and dampen the passion for resistance. There are also private initiatives to help young Palestinians find work in the Gulf under the slogan Fulfilling a Dream. The PAs Ministry of Labor set up a special website to register young people who want to work in Qatar. Although Hamas indeed does not openly encourage emigration, it turns out that it, too, wants to relieve the internal pressures by giving young people the possibility of leaving. For example, when Hamas cited the obstacles to reconciliation it claimed Ramallah was posing, it included positions that, it claimed, would prevent young people from leaving. At the same time, there have been cases where Hamas prevented young people from leaving via the Rafiah crossing and even used clubs to disperse them because they had received their visas through the PAs delegation in Cairo. All the sources we spoke with emphasized that the current situation, in which Gaza does not have a port or a proper point of egress, cannot continue and must be addressed before Gaza explodes. Options for a Palestinian Port Prof. Asaf Ashar, an internationally known expert in port planning from the University of New Orleans, has written a comprehensive paper called Gaza Ports Alternatives. Below is a summary of Prof. Ashars research. Alternative Plans for a Gaza Port The following are five port plans involving land transport of international cargoes to the Gaza Strip: Ashdod/Kerem Shalom (the existing system)  Ashdod port; processing of the cargoes to Gaza in the Kerem Shalom terminal at the Gaza border.

Gaza (Hamas plan)  Building a port south of Gaza City.

Gaza Island (Katz plan)  Building a port on an artificial island opposite Gaza; transporting the cargoes to Gaza by bridges, with checkpoints under international supervision.

El-Arish/Kerem Shalom (Ashar plan I)  Building an autonomous Palestinian port as part of the development plan for an Egyptian port in El-Arish; transporting the cargoes to Gaza through Kerem Shalom.

South Gaza/Kerem Shalom (Ashar plan II)  Building an autonomous Palestinian port on the Egyptian side of the southern border of Gaza; transporting the cargoes to Gaza through Kerem Shalom. Two additional alternatives, a Palestinian terminal in Ashdod and trans-shipment in Cyprus, were rejected in advance as unacceptable. The following section will survey the five plans and assess them according to five criteria: Israeli security,

the Palestinians national aspirations,

economic desirability,

economic development, and

political likelihood. Ashdod Port/Kerem Shalom Today, Palestinian cargo is dealt with exclusively at the Ashdod port. After an initial inspection at the port, the cargo is transported in trucks to the cargo terminal at Kerem Shalom for a thorough inspection. The process of the inspection and transfer of the goods at Kerem Shalom is based on delivery areas: goods that have been brought to the spot by Israeli trucks are unloaded by an Israeli crew and spread out for inspection on a surface surrounded by a protective wall; after the check by the Israeli inspectors, the goods are loaded by a Palestinian crew onto Palestinian trucks for final delivery. The PA is in charge of the Palestinian activity on the Israeli side, and it also collects customs, an important source of revenue. Hamas is in charge of the activity on the Gazan side. The terminal operates 24/7 and until recently transferred as many a thousand trucks a day  proof of the close cooperation between Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Hamas. With the economic conditions in Gaza worsening, however, Gazans buying power has dropped and the truck traffic has dropped by half. Israeli security: A satisfactory solution. Palestinian national aspirations: An unsatisfactory solution. Economic desirability: There is no need for investments. The Palestinian cargo constitutes only a small part of the cargo traffic in Ashdod, the volume of which will soon be doubled. But the current method is expensive for the Palestinians because of the port expenses in Ashdod and the 90 kilometers of transportation in Israeli trucks. Economic development: Limited; the Palestinians see the current system, which is based in Ashdod, as temporary and will not favor the development of Kerem Shalom (see below). Political likelihood: Israel indeed benefits from the economic activity related to the Palestinian cargo, but Israel also prefers, in line with the separation policy, that the Palestinians should have their own port. The PA, and Hamas in particular, completely reject the use of Ashdod for the long term. Egypts position is not clear. The Gaza City Port (Hamas Plan) The planned Gaza port is in the vicinity of Nuseirat, about five kilometers south of the boundary of Gaza City, in a densely populated area where the Gaza Strip is about six kilometers wide. The open area beside the shore is small and could accommodate only a small port that could transfer only a portion of the Palestinian cargo. The refugee camps surrounding the port make it difficult to build an access road, a parking lot for trucks, and so on. Nor is there room for a train terminal or for areas for storage and industry, and there is a problem of environmental risk (involving fuel containers and chemicals). Israeli security: An unsatisfactory solution, even if Hamas agrees to international supervision and allows Israel access for security cameras. Palestinian national aspirations: A satisfactory solution; in line with Israeli promises in all the agreements since the first Oslo agreement in 1993. Economic desirability: Because of the high cost of coastal infrastructure (breakwaters, canals, piers, etc.), building the port, even if it is a small port that can handle only part of the Palestinian cargo traffic, would necessitate large investments. Economic development: Limited because of the lack of space beside the port. Political likelihood: Hamas is the main supporter of this plan, which would provide employment to its backers and, particularly, customs revenues that currently go to the PA. The PA opposes the plan for fear of establishing the state of Hamas in Gaza. Israel strongly opposes it. Egypt would probably take the same stance as Israel and the PA. The Gaza Island Port (Katz Plan) In light of the impasse on the issue of a Gaza port, Minister Yisrael Katz has proposed building a Palestinian port on an artificial island at a distance of 4.5 kilometers from the shore, beside but outside of the territorial waters of Gaza. This eight-square-kilometer island would include both a marina and an airport. The main reason to invest $5 billion in the island is the security that would be obtained through the use of checkpoints under international supervision, which would be located on bridges connecting the island to the land. The Katz plan forgot an important fact: the width of the territorial waters was extended many years ago from three maritime miles (5.5 km) to 12 maritime miles (22 km). Accordingly, the island would be within the territorial waters of Gaza, hence presumably under Hamas rule. (Building an island at a distance of 22 km from the shore is impossible because of the depth of the water, which can reach 200 meters or more.) If, however, the main advantage of the island is the security that is provided by bridges, why build it 4.5 kilometers and not, for instance, 0.5 kilometer from the shore and save on investments? Moreover, the current inspection system, which is based on the delivery areas and the spreading out of the cargo, cannot be implemented on the bridges. In sum, apart from the high cost (three or more times greater), a Gaza island port is no different from a Gaza City port. El-Arish/Kerem Shalom Port (Ashar I) The goal of this plan is to remedy the shortcomings of the Katz plan regarding security and lack of areas for a port and for development by: Continuing the existing security system that is based on transferring all the Palestinian cargo through Kerem Shalom.

Building an autonomous seaport under PA control on Egyptian land based on a long-term rental contract.

Transferring some of the seaports activity to Kerem Shalom and turning it into a dry port. Under the plan, the autonomous port of Palestine would be part of the widened port of El-Arish, and the Palestinian investment would cover a considerable portion of the expenses of building the extended Egyptian-Palestinian port. The port would be operated by the PA; all the Palestinian cargo would be transported by Palestinian trucks (and in the future by train) to Kerem Shalom. The idea of building an autonomous Palestinian port on Egyptian land is not an innovation. Many countries in the world provide neighboring countries with coastal lands for the building of autonomous ports through long-term leasing (99 years + extension): cases include Tanzania/Zambia, Peru/Bolivia, and Uruguay/Paraguay. Close to home, Saudi Arabia gave Jordan the coastal strip on which the new Aqaba port was built, and Egypt recently transferred control of the islands of Tiran and Sanafir to Saudi Arabia. Widening Kerem Shalom and turning it into a dry port is at the heart of the Ashar plan. The advantage of Kerem Shalom, apart from open areas, is its unique strategic location: at the meeting point of the Israeli, Gazan, and Egyptian borders. Hence, the proposed development includes, in addition to the dry port, industrial parks, and Free Trade Zones. The route of Israel Railways would be extended to Kerem Shalom, enabling the building of a land bridge between Gaza and the West Bank that would allow the transport of international, intra-Palestinian, and, in the future, Egyptian cargoes as well. The terminal at Kerem Shalom would become a regional industrial-logistical center served by roads, trains, and ships  through the Palestinian seaport at El-Arish (or south Gaza). Israeli security: A satisfactory solution; all the Palestinian traffic would pass through Kerem Shalom. Palestinian national aspirations: A partial solution; the Palestinian port would be autonomous but on Egyptian land. Economic desirability: Building the Palestinian port as part of the El-Arish port would save on investment in maritime infrastructure. The operation of the port by the PA, the use of Palestinian trucks, and the shorter distance than Ashdod  45 kilometers compared to 90 kilometers  would save on operational costs. Economic development: Considerable, particularly regarding Gaza and the West Bank but also regarding northern Sinai in Egypt. Political likelihood: The plan depends on Egypts consent. Egypt would probably support the plan insofar as the development of El-Arish would not materialize without the Palestinian cargoes. However, Egypt would likely oppose it in an attempt to limit its involvement with the Palestinians, which, in the plan, includes an autonomous terminal and Palestinian truck traffic within Egypt. Presumably, the PA, operator of the port, would support the plan while Hamas would oppose it, seeing it as an attempt to prevent the development of the Gaza port. Israel has no political reason to oppose the plan. South Gaza/Kerem Shalom (Ashar II) The El-Arish and south Gaza plans are similar. The difference between them is south Gazas nearness to Kerem Shalom, which enables close operational integration of the seaport and the dry port via a port corridor, a specially designated 10-kilometer road for intraport traffic. The corridor would give the ports haulage vehicles rapid and undisturbed passage between the ports. The dry port at Kerem Shalom would give the port backup facilities: storage areas for shipping containers, depots, granaries, storage tanks, and so on. The maritime port would provide only the basic maritime infrastructure: a breakwater, anchorage, and a pier, and would make it possible to limit the size of the Egyptian area needed for leasing to about three kilometers of the coastal strip. The required initial investment would be about $150 million. Because the port would be expected to be profitable, the investment in it would be funded by private sources. Israeli security: Identical to the El-Arish plan. Palestinian national aspirations: A more satisfactory solution than El-Arish because of the proximity to Gaza. Economic desirability: The need for an independent maritime infrastructure would require greater investment, but the nearness and integration between the seaport and the dry port would save on operational costs. That proximity and integration would be advantageous especially for Palestinian (and in the future, Israeli) agricultural exports. Economic development: Identical to the El-Arish plan  but not in northern Sinai. Political likelihood: Identical to the El-Arish plan except for the Egyptians involvement, which would be reduced to leasing out a small strip of remote and unpopulated coast. Summary and Comparison of Plans The ranking of the plans is simplified and intended mainly to facilitate comparison and assessment. Furthermore, each side  Israeli, PA, Hamas, and Egypt  will assign different weight to each criterion. For example, security is presumably the most important criterion for Israel, national aspirations for the PA. But the PA may compromise on national aspirations in return for economic desirability and economic development. The purpose of the table is not to indicate which plan is best but to show the interrelations between the plans and the different criteria in the hope of providing a point of departure for future negotiations. In an initial assessment of the plans, the south Gaza plan appears to be the only one that is feasible. It offers a satisfactory solution for Israeli security and an almost satisfactory solution for Palestinian national aspirations; it is also the only one that can be implemented immediately  with Egyptian consent. Kerem Shalom Tristate Industrial Park The Gaza Strip is congested. Kerem Shalom is located at the widest and least populated section of Gaza, where empty, developable land is still available. Additional land could be provided by Israel as part of the future territorial exchange between Israel and Palestine. Kerem Shalom is strategically located at the intersection of the Gazan, Israeli, and Egyptian borders. The core component of the south Gaza port plan is the expansion of the Kerem Shalom inland port into a major industrial/logistical park, based on export/import-related industries. The complex could become a tristate Free Trade Zone (FTZ) / special Economic Zone (ECZ), jointly managed by Palestine, Israel, and Egypt. It is also expected that the Nitzana border-crossing terminal between Israel and Egypt will be relocated to Kerem Shalom. A final peace agreement between Israel and Palestine would enhance the Israeli-Palestinian, intra-Palestinian, and Egyptian-Palestinian trade flows processed through Kerem Shalom. Moreover, the FTZ/ECZ operations and the related border-crossing traffic would be simplified as the security inspection dissipated in peacetime. Political Assessment The south Gaza plan depends on Egypts consent. The plan accords with Egypts desire to minimize its involvement with the Palestinian issue, limiting it to leasing out a small sliver of shoreline in a remote, uninhabited border area in northern Sinai. Still, the location of the port gives Egypt important leverage in its relations with Gaza. The PA, based on unofficial contacts, is likely to support the plan, granting the PA de facto control over the entire south Gaza seaport/Kerem Shalom inland port complex. The port could serve as the PAs engagement gift to Gazans if they can achieve the (October 2017) Hamas-Fatah reconciliation. Hamas, realizing that the Gaza City port plan is no-go, is not expected to object to the plan in light of its huge economic impact (creating jobs) and since, operationally, it is similar to the existing system. Israel, based on unofficial contacts, will support the plan if a satisfactory security system is established along the intraport corridor. In addition to the possible port locations in Prof. Ashars study, security sources spoke of a boat marina in south Gaza, opposite the former Israeli Gush Katif area, as a possible location for some sort of port in the future. All the sources we spoke with agreed that from a practical standpoint, Gaza has no need for a port of its own and that Israels ports, particularly the Ashdod port, can supply Gazas needs, especially with new piers being built. The need to build a separate port for Gaza is essentially political. In talks with Israel, the Palestinians wanted a port for the PA as a token of sovereignty. Subsequently, when Hamas took over Gaza, it wanted a port for Gaza as a means of disengaging from both the West Bank and Israel. From Israels standpoint, the stigma of still being the occupying power in Gaza, despite having fully withdrawn from it, stems mainly from the blockade it supposedly imposes on Gaza. An official political solution of the port issue would help Israel get free of this stigma, which was one of the reasons for the worsening of its relations with Turkey, for example. In practice, the only port now serving Gaza is the Ashdod port, albeit in a way that is unofficial, ad hoc, and not based on an agreement. The traffic of goods from and to Ashdod passes through the Kerem Shalom crossing. The advantage of this ad hoc arrangement is that security is entirely in Israels hands. As a way of making this arrangement official from a political standpoint, Gen. (res.) Yom-Tov Samia, former head of Southern Command, proposed giving the PA a pier at the Ashdod port, thereby solving the problem of the ostensible blockade on Gaza. Prof. Ashar has also looked into this solution. He further proposes an option of leasing an area north of Gaza within Israel to the PA. The advantage is that Israel would be completely in charge of security; the disadvantage is that there would be no room for Palestinian employment centers, as offered by the option of the port adjacent to the Philadelphi Route in Sinai. The former option has no connection to Egypt, and it appears that at this stage, given Egypts great sensitivity to what occurs in Sinai, it would not oppose it. From Israels standpoint, the problem of leasing a site within Israel to the PA is that, based on the cumulative experience of the Palestinian negotiating strategy, they will never accept what is offered them and will immediately demand more. Hence, it is highly probable that once they receive status at the Ashdod port, they will immediately demand a safe passage within Israeli territory to Tarkumia in Har Hevron (the Hebron region in Judea). In the past Tarkumia was a station on the safe passage route between Gaza and the West Bank. Thus, instead of solving the political problem of the blockade of Gaza, Israel will be dragged into a dispute over an extraterritorial passage on its soil, and the pier for the PA will just move the blockade issue to a different context. Is the intention to lease the pier in Ashdod to the PA, or simply to designate a certain pier to serve the Palestinians? Indeed, Hamas website reported that in a meeting between senior Palestinian security official Majid Freij and the leader of Hamas in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, Freij said that PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas had plans for what would happen after the PA-Hamas reconciliation agreement. These plans included building a port in Gaza, resuming the operation of the airport in Gaza, and resuming the operation of the safe passage between Gaza and the West Bank in line with the Oslo agreements of 1993. This was meant to convince Hamas to accept Ramallahs positions, but Hamas was not convinced. Another problem entailed by giving the PA a pier in Ashdod concerns the status of Egypt at the Rafiah crossing. Egypt has difficult security problems in Sinai, and it needs Hamas help. The Rafiah crossing is a means of pressuring Hamas to help Egypt in its war on terror in Sinai. Officially opening a Palestinian pier in Ashdod would divest Egypt of this lever. Based on what is known about Hamas, without such pressure, it will not help Egypt but instead will act against it. One of the important advantages of the Kerem Shalom crossing for Israel, so long as it is connected to the Ashdod port, is that the great majority of the exports to Gaza are from Israel. Regulating the Rafiah crossing would mean, naturally, that most of the goods entering Gaza would come from Egypt, at Israels expense. Conclusion According to Egyptian sources, following the failure of the reconciliation talks and the worsening security situation in Sinai, Egypt will no longer agree to any port for Gaza in its territory, not in El Arish or a new port near the Philadelphi Route. Moreover, former President Morsi was willing to expand the Gaza Strip into Sinai, but current President Sisi now rejects the idea. Now, Egypt would like for the port to be built inside Israel. In this context, it should be noted that there were several initiatives to establish the port to Gaza in Ashdod, including the initiative of retired Maj. Gen. Yom-Tov Samia. The problem with these initiatives was that they depended on providing a pier in Ashdod port to the Palestinian Authority. All the sources we spoke with said that the need to build a special port for the Palestinians is a political need stemming from their aspiration to signify sovereignty and the agreements signed with Israel. In the absence of political authorization, a de facto situation was created whereby Israel allows the passage of goods into Gaza through the Ashdod port. Prof. Ashar also proposes a model for this option, following the firm Egyptian refusal to allow a port in Sinai. The island plan led by Minister Katz appears to be popular, and there is support for it from many sources, with the exception of Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman, who claims that the security aspect of the port proposal has been ignored. Minister Yoav Galant, who was also the GOC of Southern Command and knows Gaza well, supports Katzs plan. The Gaza Strip has to be connected to something, apparently not Egypt. It must not be connected to Israel, so it must be something external, he told Army Radio: It is not simple to secure, but it is better than the existing situation. Since Minister Katzs plan is long-term, while Gazas needs are immediate, one must consider as a temporary option the institutionalization of the existing situation, in which Israel has security authority at the Ashdod port. Pinhas Inbari is a veteran Arab affairs correspondent who formerly reported for Israel Radio and Al Hamishmar newspaper, and currently serves as an analyst for the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs. HomeA Belgian team is trying to find out about the origin of the Solar System by studying micrometeorites from Antarctica on the Dutch-Belgian beamline (DUBBLE).

Sr Rondane Mountains, Antarctica, 2013. Steven Goderis, from the Analytical Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC) research group in the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (Belgium), is part of a Japanese-Belgian expedition looking for meteorites preserved in the cold and dry environment of the South Pole. And they hit the jackpot: they found 635 fragments of micrometeorites. After coming back with the precious load, similar meteorite recovery expeditions and field campaigns focusing on micrometeorites continued in the following years, all equally successful. To date, they have found hundreds of pieces of meteorites and thousands of pieces of micrometeorites.

While part of the team is at DUBBLE, the rest are in Antarctica looking for new samples. Credits: C. Argoud and S. Goderis.

So what is the point of micrometeorites? Of all the material reaching Earth from space only a small part will survive the heating and shock experienced upon entry in the atmosphere. The large majority of this material, the micrometeorites, will rain on Earth as extraterrestrial particles of less than 2mm in size. Although meteorites in general provide us with essential information on the origin and evolution of the planets and the Solar System, micrometeorites, mostly originating from the most primitive objects still remaining in the Solar System, raise an even higher scientific interest. Any information we can get from micrometeorites will complement the knowledge we have of meteorites, so it is really important to study them. We have a wide array of samples so that we can get the best possible picture of these materials, explains Bastien Soens, who is doing his PhD on this subject.

The team on the beamline. From left to right: Niels de Winter, Bastien Soens, Dip Banerjee, Stephen Bauers and Niels Collyns. Credits: C. Argoud.

Steven Goderis, together with colleagues at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University (Belgium), has studied the samples using different techniques. This weekend, while he is looking for new samples in Antarctica, his team is at BM26A, the Dutch-Belgian BeamLine (DUBBLE) at ESRF trying to elucidate the chemical composition of the micrometeorites. "We are using X-ray fluorescence to quantify the presence of elements like zinc or copper, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy to define the chemical state of the iron present in the samples, explains Stephen Bauters, part of the team. The DUBBLE beamline is ideal for non-destructive 2D/3D micro analysis using confocal X-ray fluorescence and absorption spectroscopy, as we could not characterise the samples using even the most sensitive, state-of-the-art laboratory X-ray microbeam instrument, says Bauters.

Bastien Soens checks the pieces of meteorites. On the right, a piece of meteorite in Antarctica. Credits: M. Capellas Espuny and S. Goderis.

When the results will be analysed, the scientists expect to obtain a better understanding of the physico-chemical processes affecting cosmic dust particles during atmospheric entry. Ultimately, though, as Soens explains, we want to determine where these samples came from in the Solar System, to better understand how the Solar System formed.

Text by Montserrat Capellas EspunyFormer water conditioner salesman Andrew Matheason has been ordered to pay $2.5 million to Bethel Lutheran Church in Graettinger after he took over $400,000 from the church over 14 years.

It was back in July, 2017, when an employee of Bank Plus alerted church authorities to irregularities in their account.

The paper trail led to long time church treasurer Andrew Matheason, 65. Matheason has not yet been charged with any crime, but on Oct. 19, the church filed a petition for a monetary judgment and demand for jury trial.

Statements, checks and deposit slips from Bank Plus, Northwest Bank, and Citizens Community Credit Union dating back as far as 2007 were entered into evidence as the tally reached $471,000.

Handwritten checks from Bethel Lutherans account were written by Matheason to himself and to DAC Enterprises, a company he controlled.

The funds paid for purchases at Wal-Mart and Amazon, and in 2013, after Matheason withdrew thousands of dollars from the congregations donations, he took a trip to Jamaica with his wife.

According to court records, Matheason first denied any wrongdoing, However, church council president Mike Springer, in a court affidavit, testified that Matheason confessed to stealing thousands of dollars.

Matheason filed no responses to the churchs lawsuit, and on Jan. 30, Judge Nancy Whittenburg awarded Bethel Lutheran Church $481,029 in actual damages.

Whittenburg added $1,924,117 in punitive damages for a total judgment of $2,405,146.

In her ruling, Judge Whittenburg ruled, the theft was particularly egregious given the extreme length of time over which [he] stole money from the church. Whittenburg noted Matheasons disregard for the fact that the funds came from the donations of its parishioners.

Matheason appears to have covered his actions by providing inaccurate and incomplete information to the church council.

Notice of the judgment was sent from the court to Matheason Jan. 31.The Office on the Status of Women is celebrating sheroes through the month of March. Using the hashtag #unsungIowashero on its Facebook and Twitter pages, the Office seeks nominations of women who should be featured. Nominators can send a picture to women@iowa.gov along with a paragraph (260 characters or fewer) of why she is an unsung Iowa shero.

Nominations are also open through April 1 for the Iowa Womens Hall of Fame. The Iowa Commission on the Status of Women established the award in 1975 to highlight womens heritage and recognize their contributions. Since that date, 172 women have been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Fill out the form here: http://bit.ly/2EOPh5r and email it to women@iowa.gov.

April 1 is also the deadline for the Cristine Wilson Medal for Equality and Justice. This medal recognizes the accomplishments of Cristine Wilson, first chair of the Iowa Commission on the status of women. According to the Comission, Wilsons efforts were unceasing and her commitment was exemplary.

The medal is awarded selectively to an individual who has made significant contributions to the principles of equality and justice in the state of Iowa, and is open to all genders. The form for this award is here: http://bit.ly/2nORpTH and nominators should email it with the required information to women@iowa.gov.

The Commission is also collecting stories of women in the workplace for a publication to be released in the winter of 2019. The goal of the Iowa Women at Work Project is to allow those who identify as women to share the stories of the issues they face in the workforce throughout Iowa. We want women to use this space to share the good stories as well as the not so good stories of their experiences in the workforce. Stories from women in both the paid and unpaid workforce are welcome.

Story topics will be divided up into the following categories for story collection purposes. When submitting, please choose the topic closest to your story. We realize that many of these topics may overlap:

n Topic area 1: Pregnancy, Maternity/Adoption leave and/or Breastfeeding

n Topic area 2: Family/Caregiving Leave

n Topic area 3: Childcare

n Topic area 4: Workplace flexibility

n Topic area 5: Path to leadership

n Topic area 6: Harassment/discrimination in the workplace

n Topic area 7: Other

Those wishing to share a story should do so at this Google Docs form: http://bit.ly/2H17XQf

According to a release from the Commission: Staff will review the stories and remove information such as full names and names of employers. Stories may also be edited for clarity, however, submissions will be returned to the author for approval following any editing.

Through a partnership with Grand View University, a finalized document containing the collected stories of Iowas women will be released to the public in winter 2019, and may be periodically released in electronic format until then. These stories will be combined into a final document which will be available online and in print.

The Iowa Department of Human Rights has sole discretion in determining which stories will be posted in final form. Personal and other information you provide may be subject to public disclosure under state and federal open records laws.At the end of November 2017, Africas second longest-serving leader, Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe was forced out of office in a coup detat but his toppling is not surprising given the serious democratic deficit that the country had been experiencing for decades. Still, the coup detat did not send a positive signal at a time when the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG), the first legally binding regional tool in the promotion and protection of democracy, is commemorating a ten-year anniversary since its establishment in 2007. ACDEG is a platform for African countries to assess whether democracy has taken off throughout the continent.

It is honest and accurate to say that democracy in Africa is in jeopardy of being trapped in the electoral fallacy with regular elections taking place. Regional protocols committing state-parties to higher forms of democracy are in place but performance has been occasionally insufficient. Moreover, some recent engagement has shown the unwillingness of African leaders to commit to anything close to a legally binding framework. As a result, democracy is not becoming sufficiently diffused and rooted in the modes of government.

A better way of promoting democracy in Africa lies beyond the push for greater institutionalization. This, in reality, means accepting a new lens, taking into consideration variations stemming from within African states as well as differences in the evolution from Western forms of democracy. The state of democracy in Africa could best be captured by the metaphor of a glass half full/half empty. The ACDEG lays out ambitious processes in place for sanctions in case of member states failure to adhere to its provisions. Its ambitions notwithstanding, the discordant journeys the Charter had travelled to its 10-year anniversary and beyond attest to Africas chaotic democratic trajectory.

First, three out of the eight recognized Regional Economic Communities of the African Union  the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the Communaute des Etats Sahelo-Saheriens (CEN-SAD) and the Arab Maghreb Union (AMU)  do not have separate tool or constitutive documents with specifics on democracy, elections, or governance. Conflicts, politics and religions challenge exceptions and differentiations in modes of governance in Mauritania, Chad, Niger, Libya and Sudan. Different expectations help explain the state of democracy in in these peripheral zones.

Second, the signs of democratic deficit are also manifested during elections that are often accompanied by violence and death. At elections, protests and manifestations, social media and Internet blackouts are also anti-democratic impulses. All of these point out to the malaise of African democracy. Third, democracy has been set aside as a priority of the second order since conflict management is always playing a prime role in the rise of religious extremism. Western players ordering the fight against terrorism are also undoubtedly contributing to the democratic recession in some parts of the Horn of Africa and the Sahel.

The democracy in Africa is in troubled conditions. The normative conviction about its intrinsic merits is apparently under stress. There are conflicting signals and divergent views about term-limits and the role of civil society as firewalls in democratic governance. The very fact that nineteen African leaders have ruled their countries for more than twenty years hardly opens up the space for democratic norms diffusion and democratic values convergence within the African Union.

Democracy in Africa: Reversing Backsliding After Ten Years of the African Charter on Democracy  Editorial by Alfredo Tjiurimo Hengari  Institut francais des relations internationales / IFRI.

(The Editorial can be downloaded here)The European Union and Azerbaijan have resumed mutual cooperation via their Cooperation Council. Intended as a high point in relations, the council was supposed to be held annually but had a three-year gap. The meeting was designed to intensify EU-Azerbaijan relations including the launch of talks last year on a new bilateral agreement.

Since the latest Council in 2013, EU-Azerbaijan relations hit their low in 2015 following Brussels criticism of the countrys human rights situation including the prosecution of human rights defenders. Last month, the EU expressed concern over the sentencing of Azerbaijani journalist Afghan Mukhtarli to six years in prison after he had investigated Azerbaijans strongman leader Ilham Aliyev for corruption. Mr. Mukharli had been abducted from his self-imposed exile in Georgia in May 2017 and brought back to Azerbaijan where he was placed under police custody.

The Commission has changed its approach at the end of November 2016 and adopted a mandate to negotiate a new deal with Azerbaijan, driven by business objectives. From the statement it became clear that both sides wanted to speed up Azerbaijans accession to the WTO as it would allow them to discuss more ambitious trade options in the new bilateral agreement.

The EU had wanted to pursue a policy of association with East European countries until it had to face setbacks such as the Crimea crisis and the decision of Armenia and Belarus to become members of the Russia-led Customs Union, which prompted Brussels to rethink the strategy. Out of the six countries of the Eastern Partnership (EaP), only Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine adhere to their Association Agreements. Azerbaijan is a bit different case. The country is oil-rich and as such it wants to pursue a policy that makes it independent both from Russia and the EU.Fewer than half of NATOs 29 member states are about to reach their military spending targets but the Alliance is expected to announce tomorrow (13 February) that the European Unions spending is rising. Despite the increase in overall spending, many member states have not adopted their strategies to boost their spending to meet the NATOs long-established benchmark of 2% of their economic output. Emphasizing the shortfall, the White House plans to announce another increase of US defense spending in Europe. Washington will likely propose an increase of about $1 billion above the current annual $4.8 billion in military expenditure in the old continent.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will address NATO defense ministers on Wednesday (14 February) in Brussels and is expected to praise the progress at increasing spending. Having been urged by the Trump administration last year, NATO demanded allies to come up with their plans by the end of 2017, outlining how each country planned to reach the 2% target by 2024. To the frustration of the US, some allies submitted strategies for only the next three years. Other countries plans extend to 2024 but do not count with 2% of economic output.

About 14 countries have precise plans to reach 2% near the deadline but Germany, Europes biggest economy, is not among them. NATO has said that the US, UK, Greece, Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Romania and Lithuania are above or near the 2% target. France, Turkey, Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Montenegro have plans to push their spending to the target. In 2014, NATO allies agreed that all would move toward the 2% benchmark of gross domestic product on defense over the upcoming ten years. While American officials have treated the 2% as a hard commitment, some of their European counterparts think that 2% was only to make a good-faith effort to boost spending.Posted 2/11/18

The Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce has a variety of events and functions to promote economic development in the area.

One of the largest is the annual Expo in April showcasing Dallas Countys Hi.. I would be very grateful for any info from anyone who has taken a breed classed as a "dangerous dog" into Spain.. we are looking to buy somewhere in the Mijas area and come over for prob 6 to 8 months of the year.. we will be bringing our 2 dogs with us, one of which is a Rottweiler.. he is a family pet and really friendly.. I am trying to do my homework as I realise he is classed as a dangerous dog and I will need licences etc.. but I would really appreciate any advice etc from anyone who has done this already?? Do I come over with the dogs and get the licence once over there and what does it entail.. please help I am coming up against brick walls and as he is a much loved member of our family.. want to get it right..

We did want to come through the channel tunnel and tour France on our way over to Spain.. but am finding out that the French are even less sympathetic towards these large breeds.. so again any info, especially from anyone who has done this would be very gratefully received..

Really don't sail well (me that is ) so a 24 HR crossing into Santander is really making me feel queezy!! We are also considering buying an old motor home as we're guessing hotels might not allow such breeds??

Many thanks in anticipation.. please any help would be great..Hi there,



I'm a US citizen moving back to the USA from the UK. I was self-employed part-time in the UK between 2016-2017. My earnings totalled up to 3900 pounds which is quite a low amount, so I am curious as to whether I need to file my taxes to the IRS for this time period. I was a student prior to that year, so from my understanding, I don't need to pay taxes up until then. Hope that's correct!



I am moving to the states in July so I'd like to make sure everything is done correctly, as I am hoping to bring my fiancee as well, who is a UK citizen.



I've contacted a couple of accountants, and one suggested I file my taxes the 'quiet' way as it is only one year, rather than Streamlined Filing Producers? I'm not sure whether this would be legal? I'm prepared to do all of the documents myself to keep it as cheap as possible, so any guidance would be much appreciated!

Expats from Europe and North America will continue to be attracted to work in Malaysia with the friendly nature of the people one of the biggest draws, it is claimed.There will also be a lot of Asian expats currently working in Singapore, Indonesia and Greater China who are likely to move to the country, according to the head of HSBC Bank Malaysia.Looking for accommodation, organising healthcare and schooling are all easy to do in Malaysia, hence the plus points for expats to move here, said Lim Eng Seong, country head of retail banking and wealth management.We still see a significant proportion of expats coming from Europe and North America but also a robust pool of Asian expats working in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Greater China, all trying to capture opportunities from the regions fast growing consumer services sector, increased tech and digital focus and infrastructure push, he added.Some 44% of expats currently are from Europe and 18% from Eastern Asia and he pointed out the continued growth in China and Asean means there will continue to be a demand for a diverse mix of talent from people who are internationally mobile.He also explained that it means that banks, like HSBC, need to be aware of the financial needs of expats which are increasingly more complex. They can need accounts in multiple markets and currencies, health and protection cover, as well as saving and investing for education, retirement and property investment.Based on HSBCs Expat Explorer survey conducted last year, he said Asia continues to provide promising economic prospects and improved quality of life that appeal to professionals and entrepreneurs both from within the region and across the globe.The study, which is the worlds largest and longest running survey of expats life, involving over 27,500 expats, found that 61% found it was easy to make friends in Malaysia while 44% said they have better social lives compared to 31% of all expats around the world and 40% regionally.Some 61% of expats found finding accommodation easy, 54% found organising healthcare simple and 52% cited schooling as being easy to arrange along with childcare.The survey also found that expats in Asia said they have experienced an uplift in income of at least 10 per cent, including Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and New Zealand.Lim said Asia continues to draw expats from all over the globe for its buoyant economic prospects. In fact, once expats settle down, life continues to be positive for most of them. Some 55% live in a better property than they would have had in their home country.They also have the means to take more holidays and 28% said that they have more domestic help, while 18% said they donate more to charity.ezhejiang.gov.cn

Officials from China and Egypt pose with performers for a group photo in Sharm EI Sheikh, Egypt on Feb 9. [Photo by Gan Hongwei]

A group of artists from East China's Zhejiang gave traditional performances at the opening ceremony of the 2018 Happy Chinese New Year Temple Fair in Sharm EI Sheikh, a center for tourism in Egypt, on Feb 9.

Hosted by China's Ministry of Culture, the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Arab Republic of Egypt, and Egypt's South Sinai Governorate, and organized by the Zhejiang Department of Culture and the China Cultural Center in Cairo, the temple fair is part of the country's global Happy Chinese New Year event, which aims to bring the festivities of Spring Festival to the rest of the world.

The art troupe from Zhejiang, made up of the Changxing dragon dance team and the Hangzhou acrobatics troupe, staged an elaborate show at the fair's opening ceremony consisting of Chinese songs, folk dances, magic shows, and acrobatics.

In the course of the two-hour show, the Egyptian audience was fascinated by exotic martial arts, opera performances, and graceful folk music from Jiangnan (the region south of the Yangtze River).

In addition to the main show, eight artisans demonstrated some of Zhejiang's intangible cultural heritages such as celadon and tree root sculptures, which received much praise from the Egyptians.

The temple fair in Egypt will run until Feb 13.

The annual Happy Chinese New Year event, initiated in 2010, has been effective in promoting the Chinese Spring Festival worldwide and has offered the outside world a glimpse into Chinese culture. Zhejiang province, with its abundant cultural resources, is an active player in national cultural exchange activities.People across Canada involved in the ag industry are gearing up to celebrate Canada's Agriculture Day.

Canada's Agriculture Day is Tuesday, February 13, and Manager of Agriculture More than Ever, Candice Hill, says last year was the first year for the day.

"We saw people activating coast to coast, and it was amazing. There were groups who got into classrooms, and they brought farmers in to talk to students. We had a celebration in Ottawa that essentially brought together farmers, and youth, and industry groups, and government stakeholders to celebrate."

Hill says the most popular way people participated last year was by sharing their agriculture pride on social media.

Agriculture More Than Ever has a tool on their website to help people generate content if they are unsure what to post.

"A Thunderclap is something new that we introduced this year, and what it is, is a tool that people can join the thunderclap via our website at agday.ca. It's super easy to use and it only takes a couple minutes. What it will do on Canada's Agriculture Day is it will generate a social media post, so either a tweet, Facebook post, or both, and it basically does it automatically for you."

Source : SteinbachonlineBy Grant Wall

Concerns about herbicide resistance are growing in Iowa as weeds such as water hemp are showing resistance to multiple herbicide groups. The 2017 Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll (SOC 3085) surveyed Iowa farmers to ask them if they have herbicide resistant weeds in their fields, to learn about perspectives on the manageability of major weeds, and to measure their level of concern about herbicide resistance.

Several questions asked about weed management had previously been asked in 2013, allowing for comparisons between years.

The poll found 22 percent of respondents believed they had weeds that were resistant to PPO inhibitor herbicides in their fields, up substantially from 3 percent in 2013. Twelve percent believed they had weeds that were resistant to HPPD inhibitor herbicides, compared to 4 percent in 2013.

Farmers were also asked if they had changed their weed management program due to concern about herbicide resistant weeds. A larger number of respondents had, with 77 percent acknowledging a change, up from 52 percent in 2013. Many farmers sought assistance with weed control, as the percentage of farmers who develop their own herbicide programs dropped from 45 percent in 2013 to 36 percent in 2017.

Farmers are changing their weed management approaches due to worries about herbicide resistance, said J. Arbuckle, assistant professor and extension sociologist at Iowa State University and director of the Farm Poll survey. And one of the strategies seems to be more reliance on others for herbicide program development.

The poll also asked questions about the manageability of major weeds. A majority (more than 50 percent) of farmers indicated waterhemp (80 percent), marestail/horseweed (52 percent) and giant ragweed (51 percent) had become more difficult to control or had become resistant to herbicides. Lambsquarters was listed by 46 percent of respondents as easy to control while 45 percent said it has become more difficult to control. Common ragweed was the only weed listed by a majority of farmers (55 percent) as easy to control.

The poll also found that 54 percent of farmers were not familiar with Palmer amaranth. Seven percent claimed it was easily controlled while 23 percent said it had become more difficult to control and 16 percent listed it as herbicide resistant.

Palmer amaranth is a highly invasive weed that has evolved herbicide resistance in other states, so its important that farmers be able to identify and eradicate it, Arbuckle said. The finding that most respondents were not familiar with the weed means that more intensive awareness-raising efforts are needed.

Several survey questions measured farmer concern about herbicide resistant weeds. Nearly 80 percent agreed that they were concerned about the spread of herbicide resistant weeds from other regions of the United States and, locally, other counties. Additionally, 77 percent agreed they were concerned about spread of weeds from neighboring farms.

Most Iowa farmers are concerned about the potential spread of herbicide resistant weeds, and many are changing their strategies due to that concern, said Arbuckle. The survey results show that more outreach is needed, particularly on identification and management of Palmer amaranth.

Recent research shows that non-herbicide weed management approaches, such as extended rotations and cover crops can also be effective weed suppression techniques.

The Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll has been in existence since 1982, surveying Iowa farmers on issues of importance to agricultural stakeholders. It is the longest-running survey of its kind in the nation.YET another record-breaking sale was notched into the history books for the Introvigne familys Bonnydale stud, Bridgetown, on Monday when eager buyers from across the country tussled for their circled Black Simmental and SimAngus lots.

The reputation of Bonnydale genetics continues to make waves throughout Australia with another large contingent of Eastern States punters in the shed and on the phone from Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales  up against the loyal locals with a strong crowd in attendance.

With such demand, the result was an impressive bump in average to set $8697 as the new record for WA Simmental sale averages, upsetting the record by $443 set at last years Bonnydale sale.

Looking at the numbers, it was a positive sale on all fronts, with the total clearance of 43 Black Simmentals averaging $9814, up on last year by a tidy $1272, the top price was set at $19,000, up substantially from the top of $12,500 in 2017, the top SimAngus price was also up at $10,500 and the overall gross for the same number of bulls (66) was up by nearly $30,000 on last years sale.

Negotiations for the one SimAngus bull passed in continued after the final hammer fell.

This comes as the Bonnydale stud sales settle into a pattern of outstanding result after outstanding result, with stud co-principal Mike Introvigne saying the result of the day was a true testament to the effort the Introvigne family puts towards its breeding program and the way they deal with their clients.

It really was a humbling result, Mr Introvigne said.

And we are very grateful to all of our long-term and new buyers who supported the sale.

Weve been getting great feedback from our clients so I think if we just keep to our brand principles of integrity, innovation and investment, thatll carry us through.

Mr Introvigne was also pleased to see some stud interest at the sale.

Its another testament to what were doing and gives us confidence going forward, he said.

Its also exciting to have increasing Eastern Statesexposure as well as the continued support from our local WA clients.

Top priced honours went to the proud young Black Simmental in lot 31 when Elders Donnybrook representative Bill Kessel, bidding with instructions on the phone, was the last man standing at $19,000 after the opening bid was taken at $10,000.

Heading to a new home as a stud sire at St Pauls Genetics, Henty, New South Wales, Bonnydale Lincoln N73 was a January 2017-drop calf sired by Bonnydale Augustus L84.

It tipped the scales at 692kg and had all the right figures and visual traits to separate him from the rest.

Mr Kessel said the bull was a different bloodline for the first-time buyer stud operation.

We had a few bulls with ticks against them but it was clear lot 31 was a stand out for them, he said.

Hes a very correct bull with nice growth for his age and nice, balanced muscle in all the right places.

It had EBVs including a low birthweight in the top 10 per cent of the breed and a carcase weight in the top 20pc with good growth figures to help him get there including +21 and +38 for 200 and 400-day weights.

In particular the eye muscle area figure stood out at +4.7 which placed it in the top 5pc of the breed while its IMF EBV ranked in the top 20pc.

Looking at indexes, the bull was in the top 10pc for the domestic maternal index (DM), top 15pc for the northern terminal index (NT) and top 20pc of the export maternal index (EM).

The second top priced bull on the day was also a purebred Black Simmental which was secured by losing bidders on the top priced bull, Hellen and Graham Lloyd trading as Nell Partnership, Springsure, Queensland.

This came much earlier in the sale at lot three when the 714kg Bonnydale Lincoln N30 strode into the ring and encouraged bids all the way from $8000 to finish at $15,000.

The January 2017-drop calf was also sired by Bonnydale Augustus L84.

It performed well in the figures ranking in the top 5pc of the breed for DM and NT indexes as well as for its EMA EBV.

It was also in the top 10pc of the breed for 200 and 400-day weights and carcase weight EBVs, as well as in the top 10pc for the EM index.

The Lloyds are long time Bonnydale clients and run their yearly bull selections with their herd of 700 composite and SimBrangus breeders.

Were moving towards a quality all black herd and the Bonnydale genetics are doing really well in that effort, they said.

We like their quiet temperament, they way they handle our environment and of course the quality and depth of the genetics and breeding at Bonnydale which is what keeps us coming back.

The Lloyds said they were looking for an even line of balanced bulls suited to their environment which saw their second top price purchase joined by three other Bonnydale sires now slated to travel to QLD, including two bulls over the $10,000 mark at $14,000 and $13,500.

The third top price getter stayed in WA with the very next bull to sell  Bonnydale Tanker N75  heading to Esperance with Andrew and Rosalie Hann after they outlaid $14,500.

The sleek Black Simmental weighed in at 716kg, was sired by TNT Tanker U263 and had rankings in the top 5pc for 200-day weight and DM index, as well as the top 10pc of 400-day weight and EMA.

Mr Hann said he bought from Bonnydale a couple of years ago and had been pleased with the performance of the genetics in his 450 head Simmental cross breeding herd out at Esperance.

We reckon its worth doing a bit of driving to make it to the Bonnydale sale, he said.

The Hanns bought one more bull on the day at $4000, saying they liked the length and stretch in both bulls.

Bonnydale cattle have a nice type that we like and we have absolutely no issues getting our calves to market weight.

The top value in the SimAngus portion of the catalogue was set at $10,500 when return local buyer Tellarup Brook, Manjimup, made the successful bid for the three quarter Black Simmental, one quarter Angus early-February 2017-born calf in lot five.

The young bull sired by Bonnydale SA Elevator L348 weighed 668kg and presented nicely in the sale ring with EBVs to match including figures of +20, +39 and +49 for 200, 400 and 600-day weights, +3.6 EMA, +2.3 rib and +2.4 rump and indexes scores of +$58 DM, +$84 EM and +$37 NT.

Two bulls came in at the equal second top SimAngus value of $8000, which was paid by DJ & CA Marrett, Cue and LJ & JA Male, Albany.

A large portion of the sale catalogue topped the $10,000 mark, with 17 buyers willing to go at least that far on a total of 23 occasions.

Included were producers from QLD, New South Wales, Victoria and throughout WAs South West, with Black Simmentals making up 22 of the 23 sold for five figures.

The volume buyer on the day turned out to be the Lloyds as mentioned earlier with their team of four purchases, but two buyers managed to secure three bulls apiece.

Rod and Kerry Newnham, Euroa, Victoria, were one of those two, landing a team of one Black Simmental and two SimAngus bulls to a top of $14,000 paid for their pureblood selection.

They said they return to the Bonnydale sale regularly because of the standard of genetics available.

The new genetics Bonnydale invests in are the major drawcards, Mr Newnham said.

The trio of new bulls will go to work with the Newnham heifers in their 300 breeder operation featuring both breeds.

Weve found the Bonnydale progeny to be of a high standard and they seem to handle our environment very well.

Another return buyer, Jarnadup Investments, Manjimup, was the other bidder to land a team of three, selecting three Black Simmentals including a top price of $13,500.

Elders auctioneer Gary Preston said the cattle at Bonnydale improved every year.

For a start, the bulls were absolutely outstanding and deserved to sell as well as they did, Mr Preston said.

It was a big line-up but every bull had quality breeding and there was something there for everyone.

Congratulations must go to the vendors for presenting yet another excellent catalogue of Black Simmental and SimAngus bulls.A NEW $23,000 State record auction top price and the highest average for the sale were major highlights in an otherwise sale of mixed results at the seventh annual WA Charolais Bull Sale at Brunswick last week.

It was certainly a sale of two extremes with some vendors experiencing real highs, while others found the going a little tougher when it came to clearance.

The first half of the sale was solid with multiple buyers operating on many of the bulls but as the sale proceeded and buyers began to fill orders, it became tough going for the selling team.

When the final hammer of Elders auctioneer Don Morgan fell, 20 of the 32 bulls (63 per cent) had been sold under the hammer at an average of $6663, which is now the best recorded in the sales seven year history.

The averaged jumped $1022 on last years result when vendors sold 23 from 39 bulls (59pc) offered at an average of $5641.

Both Elders auctioneer Don Morgan and Landmark South West livestock manager Michael Rose agreed it was a good line-up of bulls and the final result was not due to the quality of the offering, but a lack of buying support.

Mr Morgan said the top end of the sale was extremely strong which resulted in the average being up on last year.

The bulls with good muscling and softness sold well and then if they were backed up by better figures, buyers certainly chased them, Mr Morgan said.

While the bulls that sold, sold well, the clearance was disappointing and I did think presale it would be a little stronger than it was.

Mr Rose said buyers were very selective and prepared to pay good money for the top bulls they really wanted.

There was good competition on the top bulls with a number of bidders operating on them, Mr Rose said.

However while the top end of the market was good and we saw a few bulls sell extremely well overall, the clearance was disappointing and this was not a reflection of the quality of the offering rather a lack of buying support.

The bulls presented in great condition.

With strong interest from a number of buyers on the second bull to enter the ring from the Yost familys Liberty stud, Toodyay, it didnt take long for the $23,000 record to be set.

When the 1040kg Liberty Major General M38 (P) (AI) (R/F) entered the ring in lot two, Mr Morgan called for $20,000 but buyers failed to bite.

Mr Morgan eventually took an opening bid on the polled, red factor at $14,000 and when he did a flurry of other bids were directed his way.

With a number of prospective buyers bidding on the upstanding sire, the price quickly rose and surpassed the $20,000 mark.

In the end it was return Liberty buyer of 15 years Dean Ryan, Central Stockcare, Bullsbrook, who had the final bid at $23,000 on the bull which was sashed the junior interbreed champion bull at the 2017 IGA Perth Royal Show.

Mr Ryan, who with his wife Kate, also runs Minnie Creek station, north Gascoyne Junction, said Major General was an exceptional bull.

He has a great head, good feet, a massive butt and plenty of length, Mr Ryan said.

He is also ranked fourth in Australia on his figures.

I came with the intention of buying him and I knew I would have to pay for him.

He is a real herd improver.

Mr Ryan was also attracted to the bulls red factor because of the way he intends to use Major General.

I will use him over Droughtmaster and Santa Gertrudis commercial cows both naturally and in an AI program at our Badgingarra property to breed bulls to use at the station and calves for the supermarket trade, Mr Ryan said.

The bulls we breed will be used over Droughtmaster and Santa Gertrudis cows on the station to produce calves which we background at Badgingarra before going through the feedlot at Gingin and sold to various markets while the calves from Badgingarra are weaned straight into the feedlot at Gingin before being sold into the supermarket trade as milk-tooths with a 260kg dressed weight.

The Ryans diversified to using Charolais genetics in their herds following the suspension of the live export trade in 2011 giving them more options when it came to marketing their cattle.

Mr Ryan said the Charolais breed gave them good weight in their calves and also produced a flat back animal which was suitable for the local market.

Not only was the son of Rangan Park Redemption E42 easy on the eye with its structure, softness and length, it also had the EBVs and scan figures to match.

For its EBVs it is in the top one per cent of the breed for 200, 400 and 600-day weights (+25, +62 and +71) plus carcase weight (+45), top 5pc IMF (+0.9) and top 10pc milk (+12).

Its scan data showed numbers of 9mm for P8 and rib fat, 136cm2 EMA and 4.9 IMF.

The next best price in the Liberty team was $9750 and this was the third top price in the sale.

Achieving the price for the stud was Liberty MarsBar M44 (P) (R/F) when it was knocked down to the losing bidder on the days two top-priced lots Trevor Kanny, Bonegilla Grazing, Walkaway.

Mr Kanny said while he was losing bidder on the two top-priced bulls beforehand, he was still very happy with his purchase of MarsBar.

He is a nice, stretchy bull with good bone and conformation, Mr Kanny said.

Marsbar, will go into theoperations sire battery to cover the 260 Angus-Santa Gertrudis cross breeders.

While a few of the Charolais infused heifers are retained for breeding, the majority of the March to May-drop calves are weaned into the familys own feedlot in December and fed for 80 to 90 days before being sold direct to processors at 500 to 530kg.

MarsBar was a late March 2016-drop polled red factor son of Liberty Just Ramblin Along and out of a Liberty Below Zero daughter.

The 876kg bull (November 27) scanned 7mm for rib and rump fats, 128cm2 EMA and 4.6pc IMF and recorded +20, + 42 and +56 to rank in the breeds top 5pc for all weight intervals, top 10pc for mature cow weight (MCW) (+55), carcase weight (CW) (+29) and IMF (+0.7).

Return Liberty buyers Kim and Kerrie Dunnet & Co, Nannup, were again good supporters of the stud purchasing two bulls at $6250 and $4000.

They bid $6250 for a son of Liberty Just Ramblin Along, Liberty Masterpiece M61 (P), which had figures of +20 and +60 for 200 and 600-day weight (top 5pc) and +36 400-day weight (top 10pc).

Kaloorup producers TG & VE Wrigglesworth also bid strongly on the Liberty bulls securing two at $6250 and $4000.

The Wrigglesworths bid to $6250 for the 910kg Liberty Maui Jim M63 (P) which was a son of Liberty Just Ramblin Along with growth EBVs of +17, +33 and +60 for 200, 400 and 600-day weight.

By the end of the sale the Liberty stud had cleared eight bulls from its offering of 11 at an average of $7750.

The second top price in the sale was set at $16,000 when fellow Charolais stud breeders Barry and Dot Bell, Bardoo stud, Elgin, were the final bidders standing on the 1016kg Venturon Motivate M8 (AI) (P) offered by the Thompson familys Venturon stud, Boyup Brook.

Mr Bell said Motivate was a very structurally correct sire and they were drawn to Motivate because it was homozygous polled.

We have been going down the polled path for a few years and you get there quicker if you use homozygous polled bulls, Mr Bell said.

He is an exceptionally long bull and is showing good muscle structure without being overfed.

The Bells will not be the only Charolais stud using Motivate in their next breeding program as they have already sold semen to the Palgrove stud, Queensland.

Motivate is sired by a Charolais breed legend, Winn Mans Lanza 610S and had scan figures of 8mm for P8 and rib fat, 136cm2 EMA and 6.2 IMF.

Along with Motivate, the Venturon stud had another five bulls on offer in the sale but unfortunately a lack of buying support saw them clear only one of the five at $4000.

The studs only other bull to sell was Venturon Masterkey M15 (P/S) and it was purchased by Jenour & Son, Bunbury, with the help of Landmark Boyup Brook agent Jamie Abbs.

The 896kg Masterkey is a son of Venturon Keystone K14 and is in the top 5pc of the breed for 200 and 600-day weight (+21 and +56) and top 10pc for 400-day weight (+36).

The Ellis familys Kooyong stud, Coolup, defied the sales trend to record a total clearance of their team of seven bulls to average $5321.

The studs top-priced bull stepped into the ring in lot 17 with the Yost familys Liberty stud the new owners with a $8500 bid.

Kooyong Mike M33 was an early April, 2016-drop low birthweight son of Kooyong Jurien ranking in the breeds top 25pc for BW with well above average growth figures.

Robin Yost said Mike provided another low birthweight option for their heifers.

He has two good sires in his pedigree in Bluegrass and Lancer but with different bloodlines on the maternal side to the bulls we have used, Ms Yost said.

He has reasonable growth figures, a beautiful soft skin type with thickness and a sirey type head.

Return buyers HT & KM Winterbottom, Geraldton, were a major influence for the stud securing two Kooyong bulls.

They paid $5500 for the 933kg Kooyong Magnum Force M44 which is sired by Kooyong Eric E5 and is a trait leader for growth and $5250 for a son of Kooyong Jones J42, Kooyong Maddox M23 which is above breed average for all growth traits.

Kooyong Morton also made good money in the Kooyong run when it sold for $5000 to G & B Cooper, Donnybrook, while the Gillam family, Gabyon Pastoral Co, Dongara, secured the first of their two bulls for the day paying $4250 for Kooyong Magnum.

The Dunnets took their tally of bulls for the day to three when they also purchased a Kooyong sire at $4000.

The Bellevue stud, Bellevue, offered a team of four bulls in the sale and sold two under the hammer both at $4000.

The Gillam familys second purchase for the day was Bellevue Mack M52 (P) (TW) in lot 10 at $4000.

The 1030kg Mack is sired by Bellevue Jellybean and scans of 127cm2 EMA, 3.1 IMF and 5mm P8 fat.

The second Bellevue bull to sell at $4000 was the 790kg Bellevue Masio M39 (P) (R/F) (TW) in lot 30 when it was knocked down to P & SA Tomlinson, Albany, who left the bidding to Westcoast Wool & Livestock representative Bill Kingston.

Masio is a son of Bellevue Joker J7 and it sold with scan figures of 6mm P8 fat, 120cm2 EMA and 3.4 IMF.

The Downunder stud, Wooroloo, offered two bulls and sold one under the hammer for $6000 to the Kanny family, Bonegilla Grazing.

The bull will join the Liberty bull they purchased in the operations sire battery covering its Angus-Santa Gertrudis breeders.

The polled, early May, 2016-drop, high growth moderate framed son of Liberty East Wind ranks in the breeds top 1pc for 400-day weight (+44) and top 5pc for 200 (+19) and 600 (+60) day weights, MCW (+61) and CW (+32).

The Boyup Brook-based Wundam Glen stud had two bulls on offer in the sale.

Both failed to attract any interest during the auction but before the day was finished the studs lead bull, Wundam Glen Magnum M5 (P) had found a new home, selling privately for $5000 to PE & DI & SA Hopkins.

The stylish May 2016-drop Magnum had a birthweight of 42kg and now weighs 892kg with scan figures of 9mm P8 fat, 8mm rib fat, 133cm2 EMA and 5.1 IMF.Kubotas new 2018 range

KUBOTA Australia flicked Torque a note this week about its launch of its 2018 implements range.

The launch showcases the entire suite of Kubotas implements, Kubotas M Series tractors, new release Great Plains machinery and German-based machinery manufacturer Krones hay and silage equipment.

Krone has by far the biggest swag of products, including square and round balers, Easycut TC trailed mowers, Big M 450 self-propelled mower, Swadro rakes, ZX and RX wagon ranges, SC Series seeding combination and mechanical drills.

Kubotas senior product manager Lars Pasedag singled out the Krone hay gear for special mention.

The HDP II square baler sets a new benchmark in large square bale production, Mr Pasedag said.

It features the world-first development of an eight-knotter system, which enables the machine to handle extremely heavy bales.

The Krone Comprima round baler range also features innovative updates, with a new W-pattern tine arrangement, replacing the usual straight line, for a constant flow of crop.

Theres also the Comprima Xtreme, featuring the same strong features as the Comprima, but offering faster elevator and pick-up speed for higher productivity.

Obviously knowing he was on a roll, he continued to extol the virtues of the Kubota implements specialist spreading, cultivating and seeding equipment range, which has been upgraded.

Farmers can access precision farming at their fingertips with the new SC seeding combination series, featuring ISOBUS iM Tellus and TellusGO universal terminals, which gives the operator ease of operation, monitoring and control, he said.

Now a Kubota company, Great Plains also was mentioned with the availability of its new Turbomax seeder.

Mr Pasedag said this unit could be counted on for yield-boosting seedbed preparation because it conserved soil moisture.

Rear gangs offset the front gangs, splitting the blade spacing to 9.5 centimetres (nearly 4 inches) for superior residue sizing in one pass.

And Kubotas M Series tractors feature the M7-1, with power ratings between 97 kilowatts (130 horsepower) and 131kW (175hp), and a transport peed up to 50 kilometres an hour.

In the 45kW (60hp) to 71kW (95hp) range, the M-40 is considered the economical series, ideal for applications such as property maintenance to commercial landscaping.

The MGX Series is known as Kubotas utility tractor, offering one of the largest cabs in its class, as well as unmatched comfort and visibility.

Kubota Australias pre-season offer includes a special finance offer of 0.9 per cent across all implements and every round baler purchased comes with six net roles, equalling 6 x 2600 metres twine.

p More information: See your local Kubota dealer or kubota.com.au

Elementary interpreting

IF you want to meet real characters, watch the proverbial brickbats fly or catch up on the latest goss, forget twitter handles and hashtags.

Just hang around any parts counter at a machinery dealership.

This is where the action is.

More times than not, it is a positive experience as Bunbury Machinery parts interpreters Ned Richmond-Brown and Henri Cant will tell you.

Were kind of like Sherlock Holmes many times, Mr Richmond-Brown said.

Sometimes youve got to shoot in the dark with the old girls (vintage tractors) because the owner is trying to restore it and is querying a part and sometimes the part is so old theres little information to go on.

We look into old parts books or try to get a serial number for the machines the parts are for, so that can mean a bit of investigation and involving several people.

It can be hard, for example, if you get a query for a gasket to fit a modified engine where the head has been changed, so it can take a bit of time asking around or trying to find a different gasket.

But thats half the fun of the job and its great when you can solve a problem for a customer.

Mr Cant admitted diplomacy played a large role in the job.

We do get the odd terse customer and youve got to be diplomatic, Mr Cant said.

We understand breakdowns and how frustrating it is, so our job is to help out the best we can and just cop the criticism if it comes.

We think were a good team because we share a lot of knowledge and bounce queries off one another if one of us hasnt got an answer for the customer the other is dealing with.

Having serial numbers of the machine you are chasing parts for is a big help because mostly we can fast-track supply through the computer, but with older machines you do have that old part that isnt documented and thats where the Sherlock Holmes in us comes in.

Mr Cant has been with Bunbury Machinery for nearly five years and started there through a traineeship at the South West Apprentice and Traineeship Centre doing a certificate III in retail.

Mr Richard-Brown joined the branch last June and is married to Amy.

They have two sons, Jack and Leo.

His knowledge of the parts industry continues to grow through experience and exposure to new customers and the endless range of machinery that Bunbury Machinery offers.

Branch manager Darren Pulford also wanted Torque to know that the dealerships focus was on service, which really was Darrens middle name.

Torque reckons with the busy seeding season on the horizon, dealer principals should be shopping for a few cartons to make sure the parts interpreters are rewarded for their hard work.

OK, OK.

And service and sales too.

WANTFA demo days

WA No-Tillage Farmers Association (WANTFA) marketing manager Graeme Currie gave Torque a heads-up this week on the associations activities in 2018.

Pertinent to Torque readers are three machinery demonstration events to be held in August and September.

The first will be held on August 9 at Mingenew, the second at Goomalling on August 23 and the third at Newdegate on September 10.

Were coming off a successful machinery demonstration at Goomalling last year and theres keen interest in us repeating that format, Mr Currie said.

Were inviting manufacturers to showcase innovative machinery, including precision ag such as autonomous vehicles and new software systems.

WANTFA is collaborating with the WA Controlled Traffic Farming Association to hold three CTF workshops, ear-marked for June and July.

WANTFA also will be involved in the national canola conference to be held in Perth on September 3-4, with a field day at Cunderdin on September 4.

Changing faces

FORMER AFGRI Equipment salesman Dermot Lombard, who charmed the farmers in Carnamah with his rant, innovation not imitation, has transferred to the companys Esperance branch.

With experience in the Irish Sea, the affable Irishman will be right at home swimming in many of the picturesque bays along the South Coast.

Mentioning to keep an eye on white pointers, drew this retort: I thought all the sharks were on land.

Mr Lombard takes over from experienced salesman Mark Bratten, who has been appointed WA sales manager for Muddy River.

Mr Bratten takes over from Roy Thurston, who has returned home to Canada for family reasons after a long stint as a dual citizen in Australia.

Torque remembers the lanky Roy selling Rockamatic rock pickers at field days throughout Australia in the 1980s, earning the nickname, Rockamatic Roy.

Mr Bratten, is affectionately called Brado and will be a worthy replacement.

Im excited at heading in a new direction and weve got some great new products coming out of the Horsch (Germany) factory, he said.

Were also selling Delegman Pro Tills, rock pickers and land rollers and Honey Bee fronts.

Muddy River dealers are McIntosh & Son (north zone), AIM Implements (central and east zone) and AFGRI Equipment (southern zone).

Give Mr Bratten a buzz on 0404 966 867 to talk about the Muddy River range, but expect him to be Horsching around a bit.The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you, we are excited to offer 4 weeks FREE Digital & Print access to all subscribers new and returning alike.

We are dedicated to continuing providing reliable, high quality journalism. This is possible with the trust and support of our subscribers in the community we are proud to serve.Bill Murray is to perform at the Sydney Opera House later this year.

Bill Murray

The Hollywood veteran is to sing and read classics from Mark Twain and Ernest Hemingway as part of his New Worlds show when he visits Australia in November, when he will also be promoting a new movie.

Murray will appear alongside acclaimed German-American cellist Jan Vogler, with whom he has been playing to sold-out audiences in America on the back of their 'New World's album.

The duo began working together following a chance meeting at an airport, according to the Daily Telegraph newspaper in Australia, with Bill said to have commented on the size of Jan's cello.

Despite being one of the best-known performers in Hollywood, Bill is almost equally popular for his unconventional lifestyle.

However, the 67-year-old star actor has insisted that his relaxed approach to life actually helps him as an actor.

Of his attitude on set, he previously explained: "There are people who want to be your friend right away. I say, 'We're not gonna be friends until we get this done. If we don't get this done, we're never going to be friends, because if we don't get the job done, then the one thing we did together that we had to do together we failed.'

"People confuse friendship and relaxation. It's incredibly important to be relaxed - you don't have a chance if you're not relaxed. So I try very hard to relax any kind of tension. But friendship is different."

What's more, Bill revealed he considers making any movie to be an achievement, irrespective of whether it's good or bad.

He shared: "Nobody cares [what goes into making a movie]. It's like talking about the difficulties of fame. Nobody gives a s**t. No one could care less.

"But it's an amazing triumph even to make a bad movie. Even a crap film is really an extraordinary achievement. You're taking a two-dimensional object and making it three-dimensional. The number of people. The number of days. The number of cuts..."Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday sent a message of condolence to his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, over the crash of a Russian airplane.

Flowers in memory of the victims of a Saratov Airlines Antonov An-148 plane crash, by a flight information board at Domodedovo International Airport. The passenger plane with 71 people on board bound for the Ural city of Orsk crashed minutes after taking off from Domodedovo International Airport on February 11, 2018. [Photo: IC]

The Russian airliner carrying 71 people crashed Sunday shortly after taking off from Moscow, killing all the people on board, including 65 passengers and a crew of six.

Xi said in his message that he was shocked at the incident and offered his deep condolences to all the victims on behalf of the Chinese government and people and in his own name.

People at a city airport. A Saratov Airlines Antonov An-148 plane with 71 people on board bound for the Ural city of Orsk crashed minutes after taking off from Domodedovo International Airport on February 11, 2018. [Photo: IC]

Xi also extended deep sympathy and sincere condolences to the families of the victims.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang also sent a message of condolence to his Russian counterpart, Dmitry Medvedev, over the crash.



James Hetfield has joined the cast of the Ted Bundy biopic 'Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil, and Vile'.

James Hetfield

The 54-year-old Metallica frontman will take on his first dramatic role as Officer Bob Hayward, the Utah highway patrol veteran who was the first officer to arrest the notorious serial killer in 1975, when he pulled over the mass murderer and discovered burglary tools in his car but suspected much worse.

Director Joe Berlinger - who has previously used Metallica's music in three 'Paradise Lost' films and co-directed 2004 documentary 'Some Kind of Monster' about the band - is thrilled to have the charismatic musician on board for his project.

He said in a statement: "Having spent hundreds of hours behind the scenes with James and the rest of Metallica, I have experienced his charisma and powerful presence close up.

"It seemed only natural that he would bring that same power and magnetism to a dramatic role, so when he agreed to my pitch that he be in the movie, I was thrilled."

Hetfield joins Zac Efron - who will star as the serial killer - alongside 'Big Bang Theory' star Jim Parsons, who was recently announced to be cast as Larry Simpson, the lead prosecutor in the 1979 Miami trial that convicted Bundy of his crimes.

Other previously announced cast members include Lily Collins, who is set to play Bundy's girlfriend Elizabeth Kloepfer, and Kaya Scodelario as his ex-wife Carole Ann Boone, with whom he had a lasting relationship with up until the trial which saw him sentenced.

John Malkovich will play Judge Edward Cowart who presided over the 1979 trial, and Angela Sarafyan and Grace Victoria Cox are also part of the cast.

It will tell the shocking true story of Bundy, who raped and murdered numerous young women during a killing spree in the 1970s that shocked America and the world.

Bundy chose to represent himself at the trial, which was broadcast on national television, and appeared to develop something of a rapport with the judge.

The script has been written by Michael Werwie and is thought to explore the crimes of the killer through the eyes of Bundy's girlfriend.

Filming has already begun on the production in Covington, Kentucky, and 30-year-old Efron has given fans a sneak peak of his role with two behind the scenes photos.

As of the time of writing, no release date has been set for the movie.Sherrie Hewson almost drunk herself to "death" when she first joined 'Benidorm'.

Sherrie Hewson

The 67-year-old actress - who is known for playing Joyce Temple-Savage in the comedy - has decided to put herself on a booze ban because she realised she was consuming too may alcoholic beverages while shooting the show in Alicante, Spain.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror newspaper, she said: "We are drinking ourselves to death. I've never been on a girls' holiday because my mother was a very strong, dominant woman, so I always had to go with her. So when I first started 'Benidorm', I thought this is what it must be like. I was out every night, it nearly killed me. It had to stop."

The cast spend up to 14 hours a day on set and like to unwind by popping to a karaoke bar - but Sherrie's drunken sing-a-longs usually lead to her being chucked out.

She explained: "I am the only person in the cast who can't sing. One year I'd had a few gin and tonics and started to sing Kung Fo Fighting. The bar owner said, 'Come on love can you get off the stage?' I was so rubbish he asked me to leave the bar."

Sherrie has appeared on 'Emmerdale, 'Coronation Street' and 'Loose Women' in the past but she has admitted the fans she's acquired from 'Benidorm' is incomparable.

She said: "Fans queue in 40 degrees for hours to be extras. There's a guy who has every character tattooed on him. I was relieved that my picture was on his ribs."

And, although Sherrie's alter ego is usually mocked by the other characters, the actress thoroughly enjoys playing the busy-body hotel manager.

She added: "A part like this rarely comes along and I was very lucky that I met the writer Derren Litten who decided I fitted the bill. This role is the joy of my life.

"It's such an incredible family. I think the show's longevity is down to the most wonderful British humour, like the 'Carry On' genre."Our pick of the news from Fethiye and around Turkey over the last week.

News

Four family members were rescued from their vehicle when it skidded and fell into an irrigation canal in the Karaculha district of Fethiye on Tuesday.

Health, firefighters and police teams were dispatched to the scene and the victims were taken to a local hospital where they were treated for their injuries.

Source: SonDakika

Grave vandalised in Cftlk Cemetary

A British couple were shocked and upset when they visited a family grave in Cftlk cemetery and found it had been vandalised. The damage was done to the grave between the 5th and 26th November last year and, although a suspect has been identified, there are currently no witnesses to the act.

Please be vigilant and if you see any acts of vandalism being committed, call the Polis on 155.

Turkey and Tunisia sales surge at the expense of Spain

Bookings for Turkey are surging for 2018

Spain is getting more expensive compared to very good value-for-money proposition we are seeing in the Eastern Mediterranean

Turkey and Tunisia are back, while Spain is sliding: that is the message from Thomas Cook, as it revealed its first-quarter results.

The holiday giant said that it is moving capacity east from Spain for summer 2018, with Turkey the standout market so far according to the chief executive, Peter Fankhauser.

In normal years about a third of Thomas Cook holiday sales are to Spain, but in 2017 the proportion was 40 percent.

Mr Fankhauser said: The very strong demand for Spain is returning to slightly more normal levels. Spain is getting more expensive compared to very good value-for-money proposition we are seeing in the eastern Mediterranean.

Source: Simon Calder Travel Correspondent  The Independent

Small town in western Turkey is home to one of the worlds oldest trees

A 1,656-year-old olive tree may be older than it was thought, with researchers claiming it could be up to 2,018 years old.

The tree, which still bears fruit, was designated a monument in 2013 to preserve it, and experts have certified it as the third oldest tree in the world. Local legend says it was planted by the Virgin Mary while she was leaving Pergamon to go to Ephesus before the birth of Jesus Christ. Krkagac used to be a stopover between the two ancient towns in the past, and an abode in Selcuk where ancient Ephesus is located is viewed as a sacred place where the Virgin Mary spent her last years.

The local agriculture chamber will now fund new carbon dating to determine the exact age of the tree. The 13-meter tall tree has a trunk of 10.6 meters, and locals say it is likely the only such tree of this age in the world that still bears fruit.

Source: Daily Sabah

Good news for motorists

Petrol Products Employers Union (PUIS) have announced a reduction in petrol prices of 16 kurus per litre, effective from midnight on 9th February 2018. Lets hope the downward trend continues!

Source: m.posta.com.tr

Turkey completes EU criteria for visa free travel

Turkey has completed all of the European Unions 72 criteria for granting visa free travel to the bloc and has handed over the relevant documents, President Tayyip Erdogans spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said on Wednesday.

In a news conference in Ankara, Kalin said visa free travel in 2018 would give fresh momentum to Turkeys relations with the union.

Source: Reuters

Sport

Basketball

Fethiye Belediyespor won their home match against Izmir Buyuksehir Belediye yesterday. The final score was 97-81.

Fethiyespor

Thank you to Brian Lloyd for the Fethiyespor updates.

Fethiyespor won their home match against Zonguldak Komurspor on Saturday. The final score was 1-0.

After Saturdays result, Fethiyespor moved back up to 14th position on the league table.

The next league matches are:

Wednesday 14th February 2018 away against Kahrahmanmarasspor A.S. Kick off is 13:00 (please note the earlier kick-off time)

Sunday 18 th February 2018 at home against Sanlurfaspor. Kick off is 13:30.

For more information about Fethiyespor please visit Fethiyespor Yabancilar on Facebook.

Turkish Money

Turkish Lira (TL) exchange rates:

The British Pound bought 5.28 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 5.32 TL.

The US Dollar bought 3.82 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 3.76 TL.

The Euro bought 4.68 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 4.69 TL.

Weather Forecast

Heres your weather forecast for the week ahead.

Todays featured photograph is by local photographer, Norman ClarkCategory Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release

SubCategory Select Sub-CategoryInvestors, corporate leaders and top bankers from as far afield as India and Mongolia gathered in Hong Kong on January 31 to celebrate FinanceAsia's annual Achievement Awards.

As well as the award winners announced earlier, by deal category, country and house, FinanceAsia honoured three leading industry figures with awards announced on the night, namely Charles Li, Pony Ma and Stuart Gulliver.

We present a gallery of photographs from the awards night.

...PERTH, W. AUSTRALIA, Feb 12, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - MedTech pioneer Proteomics International (PILL; ASX: PIQ) has entered into a strategic alliance with CPR Pharma Services (CPR), targeting the high growth area of clinical trials and related research, with an offer to acquire 10% of CPR's share capital through the issue of 4 million PIQ shares.This alliance will see Proteomics International applying its Promarker discovery platform to formulate a new series of predictive diagnostics and analytical services capabilities in compliment to CPR's position as an APAC-based leader in the provision of clinical services and laboratory testing in clinical trials.Dr Richard Lipscombe, Proteomics International Managing Director said, "This alliance with CPR Pharma Services presents a fantastic opportunity to expand our diagnostics portfolio, and increase revenues substantially. We see this alliance as adding significant new value to our already successful Promarker technology."Strategic RationaleIn combination, Proteomics International and CPR can offer a unique, R&D focused, Contract Research Organisation (CRO) capability specialising in companion diagnostics and clinical trials, with new Promarker companion diagnostic tests - which could save biopharma companies millions of research dollars and help bring treatments to market faster.The alliance will offer regional and local project management, certified bioanalysis, trial monitoring, data management and biostatistical services, analytical platforms of mass spectrometry and immunoassay for small and large molecules, sample storage and stability testing, and development of new methods and diagnostic tests.The strategic alliance with CPR builds upon Proteomics International's partnership with Linear Clinical Research Ltd (ASX: 15 Nov 2016), a specialist clinical trials site.Offer DetailsIn consideration for 10% of the fully diluted issued share capital of CPR, Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd will issue four million (4,000,000) fully paid ordinary PIQ shares. The deemed issue price will be the 30 day VWAP per share, and shares will be subject to a 12-month escrow period.Completion of the acquisition of shares in CPR is subject to receiving CPR shareholder approval by 28 Feb 2018. The transaction is due to complete 5 March 2018.By mutual agreement Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd and CPR may elect to undertake a secondary share swap of four million (4,000,000) PIQ shares against the provision of another 10% of CPR.About CPR Pharma Services (www.cprservices.com.au)CPR is a privately owned, full service Contract Research Organisation (CRO) specialising in clinical services and laboratory testing in early phase clinical trials, with 80 highly skilled technical & operational staff across clinical, data management and laboratory services. CPR labs are FDA and EMA inspected with GLP and ISO 17025 accreditations.As a CRO, it enjoys a close relationship with Phase I clinical trial sites across Australia, leading to a strong position in S-E Asia markets with biotech and small-mid sized pharma, as well as a clientele throughout Asia and the U.S. Based in Adelaide, CPR has been offering its highly regarded services for over 10 years, with a turnover of $15 million in FY2017.About Companion Diagnostics (CDx)The FDA describes a companion diagnostic as essential for the safe and effective use of a corresponding drug. Companion diagnostics can identify patients who are most likely to benefit from a particular therapeutic product or most likely to be at increased risk for serious side effects or monitor response to treatment with a purpose of adjusting treatment to achieve improved safety or effectiveness. Proteomics International will apply its proven Promarker discovery platform to this market.About the Promarker technology platformProteomics International's diagnostics development is made possible by the company's proprietary Promarker biomarker discovery platform, which searches for protein fingerprints' in a sample. This disruptive technology can identify proteins that distinguish between people who have a disease and people who do not, using only a simple blood test. It is a powerful alternative to genetic testing. PromarkerD, the world's first predictive diagnostic test for diabetic kidney disease, is already developed and proven.About Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd (PILL) www.proteomicsinternational.comProteomics International is the trade name for PILL (ASX: PIQ), a MedTech company focused on proteomics - the industrial scale study of the structure and function of proteins - and a recognised global leader in the field. It received the world's first ISO 17025 laboratory accreditation for proteomics services, and operates from state-of-the-art facilities at QEII Medical Campus in Perth, Western Australia. The company's business model uses its proprietary technology platform across the integrated areas of diagnostics, drug discovery and analytical services. Please see www.proteomicsinternational.com.Please contact:Dr Richard LipscombeManaging DirectorProteomics International Laboratories LtdT: +61 8 9389 1992E: enquiries@proteomicsinternational.comInvestor Relations:Paul HartDirectorCanary CapitalT: +61 421 051 474E: phart@canarycapital.com.auMedia Contact:Susan Fitzpatrick-NapierDigital Mantra GroupT: +61 2 8218 2144E: team@dmgpr.comSource: Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd (PILL)CPR Pharma Services Pty LtdCopyright 2018 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.CHENGDU, China, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chinese New Year is coming soon. The Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, is a more than 4,000-year-old festival that is valued most by the Chinese people because it means the farewell to the old year and the advent of a new year of peace and happiness.

It's noteworthy that a Chinese liquor brand, Wuliangye, has recently sent its New Year congrats message to the world. 2018 marks the 40th anniversary of the reform and opening up of China. As China has improved its international influence, the Chinese New Year is going global and becoming a world event. Outstanding Chinese enterprises, represented by Wuliangye, have all opened their arms unprecedentedly wide to people around the world to celebrate the great day and wish them a happy new year.

Wuliangye is a recognized giant liquor producer in China with an age-old brand culture. Its new year message, along with global appearances in the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, South Korea, Japan, Australia and Hong Kong, is not only a congratulatory note but a calling card of top-class Chinese brands. Here's to hoping there will be more excellent enterprises like Wuliangye to make the world more peaceful and beautiful.

Photo: https://tinyurl.com/y8uzyygdSONIPAT, India, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU)participatedin the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia Universities Summit 2018 held in partnership with the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) from5-7 February 2018inShenzhen, China.JGU was the only Indian university invited to speak at the summit. Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor, JGU was among the 25 Vice Chancellors from across the world and only one from India who spoke at the summit.

The summit witnessed participation of over 400 delegates from Asia's best universities, top researchers, higher education leaders, policymakers and industry chiefs.

This year's summit was organised around the theme 'Connecting Cities, Changing the World: Research Universities Building Asia'. The summit focused on themes including universities and cities - building alliances, defining regions; global research and education - trends, opportunities and challenges; university alliances - research output defining regional strength; national innovation - universities as catalysts and connectors; the power of partnership: what global research universities bring to the innovation economy; fourth industrial revolution and higher education, and bridging divides - research universities in the global knowledge economy.

JGU Vice Chancellor, Professor Raj Kumar, a Rhodes Scholar and an alumnus of the University of Oxford and Harvard Law School addressed a panel on'Breaking Boundaries-Research Universities in the 21st Century'that deliberated on the critical role of university research in the growth of the knowledge economy, and the importance of internationalisation strategies in eliminating regional and global barriers to collaboration.

In his discourse, Prof. Raj Kumar said, "Universities have a larger role to play in the development of societies. They need to assume a leadership role that transcends national boundaries and are able to appreciate diversity and pluralism in all its forms and manifestations. Universities need to recognise that they have a special role in society."

He added, "While societies become more myopic, it's important for academics to continue to share perspectives to influence public opinion." He also said that universities should be the vanguards in the pursuit of truth, and should promote truth via evidence - this is a key role for science and the social sciences to play in the 21st century.

The summit is also an important platform to understand the key challenges that Indian universities face as they prepare to work towards becoming world class universities.

Contact:

Devadeep Konwar

dkonwar@jgu.edu.in

+91-7027-850-344

Assistant Director

Communication and Public Affairs

O.P. Jindal Global UniversityNEC Seiichiro Toda s-toda@cj.jp.nec.com +81-3-3798-6511

TOKYO, Feb 12, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) today announced the successful transmission of digital beamforming with a massive-element active antenna base station system that supports a 28 GHz band for 5G communications. This is the first time simultaneous beamforming transmission (four multi-user MIMO) from a single massive-element active antenna system (AAS) to four terminals has succeeded(1). In this test, NEC achieved a 3.1 Gbps cell throughput by applying a frequency bandwidth of 300 MHz.NEC's massive-element AAS, supporting a 28 GHz band, adopts a fully digital control system, which improves the precision of beamforming. The fully digital control system enables simultaneous beamforming in multiple directions from a single massive-element AAS unit and efficiently implements high-speed and high-capacity communication without interfering with adjacent users through spatial multiplexing.In contrast, analog control systems require the installation of the same number of massive-element AASs as the number of beams, creating the issue of a larger footprint.This digital control system is also capable of beamforming that takes into account multipath, a non-direct wave signal, and moderately adjusts beam directions to implement high-quality communication. This is in addition to beamforming that cancels out interference through multipath and reduces performance deterioration caused by inter-cell interference.Fully digital control systems traditionally require a number of digital/analog signal and frequency converters. This generally increases power consumption, capacity and cost for the entire system. NEC, however, has successfully developed a massive-element AAS that adopts a fully digital control system with less power and more compact conversion functions through NEC's original technology."In order to effectively implement sophisticated services that apply 5G features from 2020 onward, it is essential to utilize 28 GHz and other high frequency radio bands, which enable the securing of wide bandwidth, and the utilization of beamforming," said Katsumi Tanoue, Deputy General Manager, Wireless Access Solution Division, NEC Corporation. "Moving forward, NEC will continue its efforts in development and demonstration tests for a massive-element active antenna base station system that delivers high speed, high capacity and massive connectivity."NEC will display the system in Hall 3, Stand 3M30 at Mobile World Congress 2018 in Barcelona, Spain, from Monday, February 26 to Thursday, March 1.(1) According to NEC research as of February 9, 2018About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation is a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies that benefit businesses and people around the world. By providing a combination of products and solutions that cross utilize the company's experience and global resources, NEC's advanced technologies meet the complex and ever-changing needs of its customers. NEC brings more than 100 years of expertise in technological innovation to empower people, businesses and society. For more information, visit NEC at http://www.nec.com.Based on its Mid-term Management Plan 2015, the NEC Group globally provides "Solutions for Society" that promote the safety, security, efficiency and equality of society. Under the company's corporate message of "Orchestrating a brighter world," NEC aims to help solve a wide range of challenging issues and to create new social value for the changing world of tomorrow. For more information, please visit http://www.nec.com/en/global/about/solutionsforsociety/message.html.Source: NEC CorporationContact:Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - At 3:15 am ET Monday, the Federal Statistical Office releases Swiss consumer price data for January. Prices had climbed 0.8 percent annually in December. Ahead of the data, the Swiss franc traded mixed against its major rivals. While the franc fell against the greenback and the yen, it recovered from early lows against the euro and the pound. The Swiss franc was trading at 1.1521 against the euro, 1.2989 against the pound, 0.9394 against the U.S. dollar and 115.58 against the yen as of 3:10 am ET. 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.

OTTAWA (dpa-AFX) - Suncor Energy Inc. (SU.TO, SU) said it has reached an agreement to acquire Mocal Energy's 5 percent interest in the Syncrude joint venture for $730 million, or approximately C$920 million, subject to closing adjustments.



The transaction will be effective as of January 1, 2018 and is anticipated to close in the first quarter of 2018. Through this transaction Suncor's share in the Syncrude joint venture will increase from 53.74 percent to 58.74 percent.



Subsequent to the successful close of this transaction, the joint venture partners will be Suncor with a stake of 58.74 percent, Imperial Oil Resources with a stake of 25 percent, Sinopec Oil Sands Partnership with a 9.03 percent stake, and Nexen Oil Sands Partnership with a stake of 7.23 percent.



In addition, Suncor said that it's wholly owned subsidiary, Suncor Energy Norge AS, has acquired a 17.5 percent participating interest in the Fenja Development from Faroe Petroleum plc (FPM.L) for $54.5 million, or about C$68 million, subject to closing adjustments.



The transaction is effective January 1, 2018 and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2018.



The Fenja field was discovered in 2014, in the Norwegian Sea, approximately 30 kilometres southwest of the Statoil-operated Njord field. The development concept is a subsea tie-back to the Statoil-operated Njord platform.



Production is planned to start up in 2021. Suncor's share of go-forward capital is estimated to be C$280 million, based on the operator's gross projected development cost of 10.2 billion Norwegian kronor.



Subsequent to the successful close of this transaction, the joint venture partners will be operator VNG Norge with a 30 percent stake, Point Resources with a 45 percent stake, Suncor with a stake of 17.5 percent, and Faroe Petroleum with a stake of 7.5 percent.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.deCanadian Marijuana Stocks Go GlobalThe true winners in the marijuana industry are going to the companies that are able to capitalize on the global market for weed. That's because the product is very much in demand internationally, regardless of the state of legalization. That holds especially true for Canadian marijuana stocks, because it's easy to get lost in the luster of the upcoming legislation that will legalize recreational pot across the country. But companies that are able to look past that and see the true global potential of pot are going to be the stocks you want to hold long-term.And that's good news for Canadian marijuana stock investors.A recent article in.

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.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.Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 12, 2018) - Further to its press releases dated December 29, 2017 and January 11, 2018, Data Deposit Box Inc. (CSE: DDB) (OTC Pink: DDBXF) (FSE: 2DD) ("Data Deposit Box") is pleased to announce the successful completion of its previously announced warrant exercise program (the "Incentive Program") designed to encourage the early exercise of outstanding unlisted common share purchase warrants (the "Warrants").

Under the terms of the Incentive Program, in order to encourage the early voluntary exercise of the Warrants, for a period from December 29, 2017 until 4:30 p.m. (Toronto time) on January 31st, 2018 (the "Early Exercise Period"), Data Deposit Box offered to all non-US resident holders of Warrants, for each Warrant exercised under the Incentive Program, one (1) additional common share purchase warrant (each, an "Incentive Warrant") at no additional cost. Each Incentive Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one common share in the capital of Data Deposit Box at a price of $0.25 per share for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance.

The Incentive Program successfully resulted in the exercise of 23,797,412 Warrants raising aggregate proceeds of $1,661,991. Accordingly, pursuant to the terms of the Incentive Program, Data Deposit Box issued an aggregate of 23,797,412 Incentive Warrants, each expiring on February 1, 2020.

About Data Deposit Box

Providing advanced, cloud-based data back-up since 2002, Data Deposit Box is one of the world's first and foremost data backup, protection and recovery providers for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), as well as Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs). Data Deposit Box offers full white labeling for larger MSPs. Based in Toronto, Canada, Data Deposit Box is trusted by over 5,000 MSPs, SMBs and personal endusers world-wide to make data back up as simple and smart as possible. Our recently introduced Secure Email Archiving has great potential in the larger Enterprise market as well as in our existing market. Data Deposit Box has refactored components of its existing cloud platform to develop products for the Blockchain industry. LiveLink Web, patented web based remote device management software that does not require a Virtual Private Network (VPN), is being released in Q1 of 2018. The applications for this product cross many OEM markets such as Network Attached Storage (NAS), printers, routers, firewalls, etc. Applications also exist for the Internet of Things (IOT) which involves products for the Consumer, Business and Public markets.

For More Information Contact:

Tim Jewell, CEO Data Deposit Box Inc.

Telephone: 416-238-7596

Email: tjewell@datadepositbox.com

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided, and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESGerman PV equipment manufacturer teamtechnik today announced that it has received an order for its TT1400 ECA stringer from an Italian PV manufacturer. The tool will be integrated into a line producing high efficiency heterojunction PV modules.Teamtechnik will supply its stringer technology to an innovative module manufacturer based in Catania, Sicily. The TT140 ECA stringer will be used to connect cells based on heterojunction (HJT) technology. The system utilizes an adhesive technology which reduces thermal and mechanical stress on the cells. The technology was developed in-house by teamtechnik, ...

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Southwest Airlines on Sunday canceled more than 200 flights due to shortage of airplane de-icing fluid as the Midway Airport in Chicago, Illnois was hit by winter storm. 'Airlines at MDW have canceled 250+ flights today due to winter operational issues. Confirm flight status w/ your airline,' Midway Airport tweeted. Southwest confirmed that canceled about 220 flights and has offered refunds or flight vouchers to passengers of the canceled flights. 'Due to having to de-ice many of our aircraft because of the weather, we are running low on de-icing fluid. Safety will remain our top priority in this circumstance. Please reach out to our Team or Reservations Agents to get rebooked just as soon as possible,' Southwest Airlines tweeted in reply to a customer's query. A winter Storm hit Midway with over 13 inches of snowfall since Thursday, while O'Hare recorded 12.3 inches, according to the National Weather Service. Meanwhile, Southwest Airline has resumed normal operations at Midway International Airport on Monday morning. As of Monday morning, glycol used for de-icing had been replenished, according to a statement from Southwest. 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.CAMARILLO, California, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

BNK Petroleum Inc. (the "Company") (TSX: BKX) is pleased to announce that the Company has drilled and set casing on the Glenn 16-2H well and begun drilling the WLC 14-1H well in the Company's Tishomingo Field.

The Glenn 16-2H, which is located directly south of the Company's Brock 9-2H well, was drilled and cased in 25 days. The drilling rig was moved 2 miles to the east and is drilling the WLC 14-1H well (previously referred to as the Scott 14-2H). Fracture stimulation bids for the Glenn 16-2H well have been received and the Company expects to select the service company shortly, after which the stimulation date will be determined.

Wolf Regener, President and CEO commented "I am proud of our team that safely drilled the Glenn well in 25 days, which was 5 days less than our expected drilling time. This team includes our staff, consultants and quality service companies such as Power Drilling, LLC and Skyline Directional Drilling, LLC, who all played key roles in a full section treatable lateral being drilled under budget.

"The hydrocarbon shows recorded while drilling the lateral look comparable to our best wells. Based on everything we've seen, after fracture stimulation, we expect the Glenn to be another of our top performing wells. We are looking forward to the continued success of our drilling campaign as we push further east with the WLC 14-1H, which we believe will continue to increase our reserves and cash flow and demonstrate the repeatability of our results."

About BNK Petroleum Inc.

BNK Petroleum Inc. is an international oil and gas exploration and production company focused on finding and exploiting large, predominately unconventional oil and gas resource plays. Through various affiliates and subsidiaries, the Company owns and operates shale oil and gas properties and concessions in the United States. Additionally, the Company is utilizing its technical and operational expertise to identify and acquire additional unconventional projects. The Company's shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the stock symbol BKX and on the OTCQB under the stock symbol BNKPF.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding the timing of and expected results from planned Caney wells development and the Company's plans and objectives. Forward-looking information is based on plans and estimates of management and interpretations of data by the Company's technical team at the date the data is provided and is subject to several factors and assumptions of management, including that that indications of early results are reasonably accurate predictors of the prospectiveness of the shale intervals, that required regulatory approvals will be available when required, that no unforeseen delays, unexpected geological or other effects, including flooding and extended interruptions due to inclement or hazardous weather conditions, equipment failures, permitting delays or labor or contract disputes are encountered, that the necessary labor and equipment will be obtained, that the development plans of the Company and its co-venturers will not change, that the offset operator's operations will proceed as expected by management, that the demand for oil and gas will be sustained, that the Company will continue to be able to access sufficient capital through financings, farm-ins or other participation arrangements to maintain its projects, and that global economic conditions will not deteriorate in a manner that has an adverse impact on the Company's business, its ability to advance its business strategy and the industry as a whole. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause the forward-looking information in this news release to change or to be inaccurate include, but are not limited to, the risk that any of the assumptions on which such forward looking information is based vary or prove to be invalid, including that the Company or its subsidiaries is not able for any reason to obtain and provide the information necessary to secure required approvals or that required regulatory approvals are otherwise not available when required, that unexpected geological results are encountered, that equipment failures, permitting delays, labor or contract disputes or shortages of equipment or labor are encountered, the risks associated with the oil and gas industry (e.g. operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration and development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety and environmental risks, including flooding and extended interruptions due to inclement or hazardous weather conditions), that the offset operator's operations have unexpected adverse effects on the Company's operations, that completion techniques require further optimization, that production rates do not match the Company's assumptions, that very low or no production rates are achieved, that the Company is unable to access required capital, that occurrences such as those that are assumed will not occur, do in fact occur, and those conditions that are assumed will continue or improve, do not continue or improve, and the other risks and uncertainties applicable to exploration and development activities and the Company's business as set forth in the Company's management discussion and analysis and its annual information form, both of which are available for viewing under the Company's profile at http://www.sedar.com, any of which could result in delays, cessation in planned work or loss of one or more concessions and have an adverse effect on the Company and its financial condition. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

Wolf E. Regener, +1(805)484-3613, Email: investorrelations@bnkpetroleum.com, Website: http://www.bnkpetroleum.comCANBERA (dpa-AFX) - Japan will on Tuesday release January numbers for producer prices, highlighting a light day for Asia-Pacific economic activity. Producer prices are expected to rise 0.3 percent on month and 2.7 percent after gaining 0.2 percent on month and 3.1 percent on year in December. Japan also will see preliminary January figures for machine tool orders; in December, orders surged 48.3 percent on year. Australia will see January results for the indexes of business confidence and conditions from NAB; in December, their scores were +11 and +13, respectively. Finally, the markets in Taiwan will be closed starting Tuesday for the long Lunar New Year break; they will re-open Feb. 21. 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.Invacare Corporation (NYSE: IVC) today announced that it will transfer production of Kuschall manual wheelchairs from its facility in Witterswil, Switzerland to its wheelchair manufacturing facility in Fondettes, France by the end of the third quarter 2018. This move will allow the company to better optimize its wheelchair manufacturing facility in France. The front office of the Swiss facility will remain open and continue to serve as Invacare's European headquarters and research and development center of excellence, as well as the Swiss sales office.

"This transfer is another step forward in Phase Two of our transformation, which leverages our existing global infrastructure to reduce costs and further increase efficiencies. We now have announced the transfer of localized wheelchair manufacturing production from Sweden and Switzerland to a central wheelchair manufacturing facility in France. We are creating a leading European wheelchair manufacturing facility that is centrally located to our European customers. We will maintain the high-quality product standards and great service that our customers have come to expect from us," said Matthew E. Monaghan, chairman, president and chief executive officer.

Invacare has completed its consultations with Kuschall employees and will proceed with activities to transfer wheelchair production to France. The transfer is expected to generate an incremental $1.7 million in annualized pre-tax savings in the Europe business segment. Due to this realignment, the company expects to incur restructuring charges and related operating costs of approximately $1.1 million on a pre-tax basis in the Europe business segment. Cash restructuring charges will be paid in the third quarter 2018. Consistent with the company's commitment to minimize the impact on longstanding associates, transition assistance will be provided to affected employees.

About Invacare Corporation

Invacare Corporation (NYSE: IVC) ("Invacare" or the "company") is a leading manufacturer and distributor in its markets for medical equipment used in non-acute care settings. At its core, the company designs, manufactures, and distributes medical devices that help people to move, breathe, rest and perform essential hygiene. The company provides clinically complex medical device solutions for congenital (e.g., cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida), acquired (e.g., stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, post-acute recovery, pressure ulcers) and degenerative (e.g., ALS, multiple sclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, elderly, bariatric) ailments. The company's products are important parts of care for people with a wide range of challenges, from those who are active and involved in work or school each day and may need additional mobility or respiratory support, to those who are cared for in residential care settings, at home and in rehabilitation centers. The company sells its products principally to home medical equipment providers with retail and e-commerce channels, residential care operators, distributors and government health services in North America, Europe and Asia/Pacific. For more information about the company and its products, visit Invacare's website at www.invacare.com

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "Safe Harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are those that describe future outcomes or expectations that are usually identified by words such as "will," "should," "could," "plan," "intend," "expect," "continue," "forecast," "believe," and "anticipate" and include, for example, any statement made regarding the company's future results. Actual results may differ materially as a result of various risks and uncertainties, including regulatory proceedings or the company's failure to comply with regulatory requirements or receive regulatory clearance or approval for the company's products or operations; adverse effects of regulatory or governmental inspections of company facilities at any time and governmental warning letters or enforcement actions; circumstances or developments that may make the company unable to implement or realize the anticipated benefits, or that may increase the costs, of its current business initiatives; possible adverse effects on the company's liquidity that may result from delays in the implementation or realization of benefits from its current business initiatives; exchange rate fluctuations; and those other risks and uncertainties expressed in the cautionary statements and risk factors in the company's annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company may not be able to predict and may have little or no control over many factors or events that may influence its future results and, except as required by law, shall have no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212006382/en/

Contacts:

Invacare Corporation

Lara Mahoney, 440-329-6393DiaCarta, a Richmond, Calif.-based precision molecular diagnostics company, completed a $45.0M Series B funding round.

The second closing was led by Fortune Fountain Capital (FFC) and was also subscribed to by Good Health Capital (GHC).

The company intends to use the funds to:

 set up global clinical study programs for non-Invasive Early Cancer detection to include Recurrence and Monitoring indications;

 launch ColoScape, a sensitive in vitro diagnostic assay for the detection of colorectal cancer in liquid biopsy and tissue samples;

 expand product development pipeline to include a range of gene mutation and fusion panels using core technology platforms in DNA low frequency mutation detection; and a sensitive next generation of multiplexing HPV (Human papillomavirus) genotyping E6/E7 mRNA test, etc;

 extend its CLIA & OptiSeq Next Generation Sequencing offerings, and

 strengthen core IP position and applications for FDA and CFDA certifications for relevant tests and commercial team and relevant support roles.

Led by Aiguo (Adam) Zhang, Ph.D., Founder and CEO, DiaCarta focuses on genomic innovation through detection and amplification technologies. The company, which has an ISO 13485-certified facility used to develop, manufacture and market a range of cancer research and IVD products, specializes in genomic testing for biomarkers and offers clinical sample testing services in a CLIA-certified laboratory.

The novel QClamp Xeno-Nucleic Acid (XNA) clamping technology has solved the interference bottleneck of wild-type DNA in gene mutation detection and has enhanced the sensitivity and specificity in the detection process, especially in the liquid biopsy field.

The technology can be widely used in quantitative PCR (qPCR), gene chip, nanotechnology and all generations of NGS platforms and is underpinned by over 80 patents.

FinSMEs

12/02/2018While the Brexit negotiations continue to stumble along, new research suggests that the nations army SMEs remain enduringly optimistic about the global economy and their role within it. If these SMEs are to unlock their ambitious growth plans for the next 12 months and beyond, however, theyll need to go back to basics and get to grip with their finances.

In this post, well look at how SMEs can manage the tax liability with greater efficiency and reduce their annual spend.

1. Use Saving and Tax Allowances to Receive Dividends

Tax and finance legislation includes a number of basic reliefs and allowances, with the value of these having increased sharply in recent years.

As a result of this, its also possible to leverage savings and dividend income alongside capital gains to secure tax-free allowances that can mitigate your SMEs tax burden.

In specific terms, entrepreneurs and senior managers can leverage their personal, tax-free allowance of 11,000 to receive dividend income from the business. This is a popular loop-hole in the modern age, and one that SMEs can use creatively to their advantage.

2. Maximise Company Pension Contributions

Perhaps the easiest method of managing your businesses tax burden is to optimise the level of company pension contributions.

By investing accrued capital into a viable pension scheme such as a SIPP (self-invested personal pension plan), youll be able to either reduce your total amount of corporation tax paid or subsequently receive tax relief on the personal contributions that are made.

Wealth and finance planners such as Tilney can help to advise you in this respect, as can objective outlets such as the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority).

3. Review your Firms VAT Method

If your business is registered for and pays VAT (value-added tax), it may also be worth reviewing your method used to meet your obligations.

In some instances, for example, it may be better to move away from a flat rate of VAT and instead embrace the standard or cash accounting scheme to cover your liability.

This will not only enable you to remain on top of the national VAT rate changes as they continue to impact on your firm, but it will also minimise your overall tax bill for the financial year.L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering, a wholly-owned subsidiary of engineering giant Larsen & Toubro, has secured a Rs 2,200-crore contract from Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra Petroleum Operations Company

New Delhi: L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering, a wholly-owned subsidiary of engineering giant Larsen & Toubro, has secured a Rs 2,200-crore contract from Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra Petroleum Operations Company.

L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering has signed "a major field development EPC contract with Al Dhafra Petroleum Operations Company Ltd, Abu Dhabi, UAE, with a value in excess of Rs 2,200 crore", Larsen and Toubro stated in a BSE filing on Monday.

Al Dhafra Petroleum is a joint venture between ADNOC and Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC) and GS Energy, which is represented by Korean Abu Dhabi Oil Consortium (KADOC).

The scope of the contract includes engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning of flow lines, gathering facilities and pipelines to transfer crude oil and gas from Haliba fields to processing facility at Asab and installation of 132 kV and 33 kV overhead electrical transmission lines to supply power.

Larsen and Toubro was trading 1.79 percent up at Rs 1,353.15 on BSE.ONGC Videsh is the foreign investment arm of ONGC. Other members of the consortium are Indian Oil Corp and Bharat Petro Resources Ltd, an upstream arm of refiner Bharat Petroleum Corp.

Abu Dhabi/Dubai: A consortium led by Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) has become the first group to win a stake in Abu Dhabi National Oil Cos (ADNOC) 40-year offshore oil concession, a deal set to help the UAE expand its foothold in Asia.

State-run ADNOC signed an agreement on Saturday with the ONGC Videsh-led consortium giving the group a 10 percent stake in the new Lower Zakum offshore concession, with a participation fee of 2.2 billion dirhams ($600 million), ADNOC said in a statement, confirming a report by Reuters.

ONGC Videsh is the foreign investment arm of ONGC. Other members of the consortium are Indian Oil Corp and Bharat Petro Resources Ltd, an upstream arm of refiner Bharat Petroleum Corp.

The contract signing in Abu Dhabi was attended by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is the first time for Indian oil companies to take part in an Abu Dhabi oil and gas concession.

ADNOC, like other major oil producers, wants to tap rising demand growth and invest in India, the worlds third-biggest consumer.

The concession deal will help India meet its growing demand for energy and refined products, create opportunities for ADNOC to increase its market share in a key growth market, and build a solid foundation as ADNOC explores potential international investments, particularly focused on downstream opportunities, ADNOCs Chief Executive Sultan al-Jaber said in the statement.

In August, ADNOC said it would split its ADMA-OPCO offshore concession into three areas - Lower Zakum, Umm Shaif and Nasr, and Sateh Al Razboot and Umm Lulu - with new terms to unlock greater value and increase opportunities for partnerships.

The agreement has a term of 40 years and an effective date of 9 March, ADNOC said. The existing ADMA-OPCO concession, in which ADNOC has a 60 percent stake that it will retain, produces around 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) of oil and is projected to have a capacity of about 1.0 million bpd by 2021. Existing shareholders in ADMA-OPCO are BP plc with 14.67 percent, Total SA with 13.33 percent and Japan Oil Development Co with 12 percent.

ADNOC said it was still finalising opportunities, with potential partners, for the remaining 30 percent of the available 40 percent stake in the Lower Zakum offshore concession.

Last year, ADNOC signed a deal to store about 6 million barrels of oil at Indias Mangalore storage site, taking up about half of its capacityThe latest round of loan waivers has come from Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje who on Monday announced that all loans of small and marginal farmers amounting up to Rs 50,000 will be waived, which would cost the exchequer around Rs 8,000 crore.

The latest round of loan waiver comes from Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje.

On Monday, Raje announced that all loans of small and marginal farmers of up to Rs 50,000 will be waived, which would cost the exchequer around Rs 8,000 crore.

Raje has thus joined the club of other chief ministers in BJP-ruled states of Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh to waive farmer loans. And its not just BJP. In the Opposition camp too, loan waiver continues to be a favourite poll plank. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, who is campaigning in Karnataka ahead of the Assembly polls, has demanded a loan waiver for farmers from the state.

Rahul's argument is that if corporate loans can be waived, why not farmer loans? What Rahul forgets is that two wrongs dont make a right. By promising or executing farm loan waivers, both Rahul and Raje are deepening the crisis in the banking sector with a damaging exercise which has, time and again, proved to be an effective tool to kill the credit culture and cause a spurt in bank non-performing assets (NPAs).

If one looks at the periods post the loan waiver announcements, state-run banks in Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Punjab  wherever such loan waivers were announced to win votes  saw an almost instant rise in their NPAs.

It's also true that there has been a large-scale write-off of corporate loans in the past four years (around Rs 1.7 lakh crore). These include loans given to some wealthy, well-known figures in the corporate world. Many such write-offs are subject to dispute with critics raising questions whether these cases were indeed genuine. But one mistake is no excuse to commit another.

When Rahul cites corporate write-offs as a reason to do the same with farmer loans  a demand he raised during the Uttar Pradesh poll campaign  he is turning even the honest borrower into a potential loan defaulter. Rahul could have done some homework and looked at the history of farm loan waivers. Evidence from the 2008 UPA-sponsored Rs 70,000 crore farm loan waiver and similar schemes shows that loan waivers never really helped farmers.

In fact, it destroyed the credit culture of an entire geography for a prolonged period and has damaged the health of banks and state exchequers. Today, NPAs from agriculture constitutes a major chunk of bad loans of state-run banks. For State Bank of India, nearly 10 percent of its total farm loans have already turned bad.

As this writer has cautioned in earlier columns, loan waivers offer only temporary reprieves to farmers. Unless the fundamental reasons that have caused the current plight do not change, farmers will require several rounds of loan waivers after every failed crop season. Responsible politicians, who are serious about farmer welfare, should make farmers aware about the perils of loan waivers and think of long-term solutions using technology to improve farm infrastructure and free the farmer from the grip of greedy middlemen.

Also, the solutions to agrarian woes lies in making sure proper insurance cover for the farmer, ensuring he gets the right price for his crop and access to cheap fertilisers, farm equipment and information without hassle. Farm loan waiver is an easy tool for the politician to win votes, but is not a solution to the problems of the farmers in the fields.

If corporations have taken undue advantage of the banking system and looted public money, the role of the banker-corporate nexus should be investigated and the guilty should be brought to book. Rahul's intent to help the grieving farmers is laudable, but the Congress presidents logic of loan waiver is fundamentally flawed and will only help encourage more farmers to join the protests seeking freebies.

It is not begging bowls that our farmers need, but realistic solutions to their problems. It's time politicians stopped waving the loan waiver card to farmers and bring about an awareness that benefits them. Both Raje and Rahul are only damaging the banking system and deepening the crisis in the farm economy.

Agriculture non-performing assets Bank Agri loans Agri NPAs % of NPAs to agri loans Quarter end Bank of Maharashtra 14,956 2,331 15.6 Dec-17 Bank of Baroda 46,651 6,963 14.9 Dec-17 Oriental Bank 21,294 3,094 14.5 Dec-17 Uco Bank 19,819 2,539 12.8 Sep-17 Bank of India 47,535 4,873 10.3 Sep-17 SBI 1,94,055 19,344 10.0 Dec-17 Union Bank of India 44,232 2,676 6.0 Dec-17 Central Bank 38,740 2,086 5.4 Sep-17 Andhra Bank 29,289 1,314 4.5 Dec-17 Vijaya Bank 16,740 566 3.4 Dec-17 *Figures in Rs crore

Data support from Kishore KadamSeeking to crackdown on shell companies, the government has proposed to remove exemption available to firms with tax liability of up to Rs 3,000 from filing I-T returns beginning next fiscal

New Delhi: Seeking to crackdown on shell companies, the government has proposed to remove exemption available to firms with tax liability of up to Rs 3,000 from filing I-T returns beginning next fiscal.

The Union Budget 2018-19 has rationalised the I-T Act provision relating to prosecution for failure to furnish returns.

Thus, a managing director or a director in charge of the company during a particular financial year could be liable for prosecution in case of any lapse in filing I-T returns for any financial year beginning 1 April.

"The income tax departments would now track investments by these companies. Also, the focus will be on those firms that show less profit and also those who file I-T returns for the first time," a senior finance ministry official said.

There are around 12 lakh active companies in the country, out of which about 7 lakh are filing their returns, including annual audited report, with the ministry of corporate affairs. Of this, about 3 lakh companies show 'nil' income.

The Section 276CC of the Income Tax Act provided that if a person wilfully fails to furnish in due time the return of income, he shall be punishable with imprisonment and fine.

However, no prosecution could be initiated if the tax liability of an assessee does not exceed Rs 3,000.

The government has amended the provision with effect from 1 April, 2018 and removed the exemption available to companies.

"In order to prevent abuse of the said proviso by shell companies or by companies holding benami properties, it is proposed to amend the provisions... so as to provide that the said sub-clause shall not apply in respect of a company," it said.

The official said that as many as 5 lakh are companies not filing returns and they could be a potential source of money laundering. "These could be small firms which are engaged in honest business, but there could be some which are a potential threat. We have to look into the data."

Nangia & Co Managing Partner Rakesh Nangia said though the amendment has been brought about to prevent abuse by shell companies/benami properties, checks similar to those placed in the law for invoking GAAR, should be in place to avoid genuine hardship.

"Though the taxman may be driven by compulsions to ensure proper tax compliance, care must be taken while taking such action. In most developing countries, prosecution for tax matters is applied only in cases of serious tax frauds and not in general compliance matters," Nangia said.

The Budget announcement follows the recommendation of the task force on shell companies, which was set up in February last year.

In the government's fight against black money, shell companies have come to the fore as they are seen as potential for money laundering.

Till the end of December 2017, over 2.26 lakh companies were deregistered by the MCA for various non-compliances and being inactive for long.

Shell companies are characterised by nominal paid-up capital, high reserves and surplus on account of receipt of high share premium, investment in unlisted companies, no dividend income and high cash in hand.

Also, private companies as majority shareholders, low turnover and operating income, nominal expenses, nominal statutory payments and stock in trade, minimum fixed asset are some of the other characteristics.

Since last year, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)  the apex policy making body of the I-T department  has been sharing with the MCA specific information like PAN data of corporates, Income Tax returns (ITRs), audit reports and statement of financial transactions (SFT) received from banks.Corrective measures are needed in startups However, the Budget did not address it, says Nasscom

Hyderabad: The software industry lobby Nasscom has once again expressed concern over the falling fund flows into startups and called for added focus to galvanise the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) had last November shared its concern over the taxation issues in the startup scene, which led to a steep 50 percent fall in angel investments and a significant decline in series A funding.

"While angel investments are the critical first piece that gets a startup going, series A fund is the one where the angel investors really make their exits and make money. That's what incentivises them to continue their investments," Nasscom president R Chandrashekhar said.

"We had pointed that out and felt that corrective measures are needed. However, we did not find that being addressed in the Budget," he added.

It can be noted that the taxmen had demanded Rs 110 crore income tax from the e-tail major Flipkart, which the company had challenged in the appellate tribunal and has reportedly lost the appeal.

The department's claim was based on its findings that the company was showing losses by offering huge marketing discounts. According to them, the ecommerce major had a profit of Rs 408 crore in FY16 and thus a tax liability of Rs 110 crore, while the company had claimed a net loss of Rs 796 crore for the year.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, however, recently had issued directives to the income tax department to not adopt very coercive methods in respect of angel investments. "We need to be far more focused on the things that are needed to galvanise the startup and entrepreneurial ecosystems," he said.

Over 1,000 startups were added in 2017 in the country, according to a Nasscom-Zinnov report published last November.High courts nationwide are 37 percent short of judges, and ad hoc appointmentsnot posting judges to courts that need them mostare worsening delays and affecting Indias economy, according to our analysis of data released by the department of justice.

By Shobhit Mathur and Pallabi Mandal

New Delhi: High courts nationwide are 37 percent short of judges, and ad hoc appointmentsnot posting judges to courts that need them mostare worsening delays and affecting Indias economy, according to our analysis of data released by the department of justice.

There were over 4.2 million cases pending in the 24 high courts of India on 4 February, 2018, according to the National Judicial Data Grid, with 49 percent of these cases more than five years old. Data from central ministries show that infrastructure projects of close to Rs 52,000 crore are affected by court orders, according to the Economic Survey 2017-18.

Indias judicial delays are legendary, and the shortage of judges is well documented, as IndiaSpend has previously reported (here, here, here and here).

The Allahabad High Court has the highest number of pending cases, exceeding 900,000 cases in 2016 and 2017. The number of pending cases has declined during 2017 by a slight margin in only three of 24 high courts.

In terms of increase in pending cases, Karnataka High Court is the most stressed court with an increase in pendency of 36,479 cases followed by Hyderabad and Punjab & Haryana with 32,548 and 30,195 pending cases, respectively.

The working strength of judges has not changed for the three high courts of Jharkhand, Meghalaya and Sikkim. The number of judges has declined in Calcutta (seven), Himachal Pradesh (three), Gujarat and Tripura (two) and Manipur and Orissa (one).

The working strength has increased in all other courts with Madras witnessing the maximum increase of 16 judges, followed by Bombay with 10 judges, and Patna, Rajasthan, Gauhati and Chhattisgarh with six judges each.

One would expect that the most stressed courts should get a good share of new judges. The simplest metric to compute the stress is the average pending cases per judge. The higher the average case burden per judge, more stressed the court.

Workload Per High Court Judge & Corresponding Allocation Of Judges Court Workload Per Judge in 2016 Workload Per Judge in 2017 Change In Working Strength Of Judges, 2016-17 Calcutta 5,208 6,533 -7 HP 2,344 3,212 -3 Karnataka 9,500 10,103 2 Orissa 8,991 9,559 -1 Gujarat 2,800 3,305 -2 Tripura 747 1,247 -2 Hyderabad 11,148 11,528 2 Jharkhand 4,928 5,287 0 Punjab and Haryana 6,300 6,648 2 Manipur 790 1,126 -1

Note: Click here for data on all high courts.

Source: Supreme Court Annual Reports 2015-16 and 2016-17

In 2016, although Bombay had a lower workload per judge than Calcutta, Bombay saw an increase of 10 judges while Calcutta saw a decline of seven judges. Rajasthan and Gauhati got the same increase in judges while Rajasthan had twice the workload per judge than Gauhati.

Madras and Bombay have got disproportionally high allocation of judges, while Allahabad, Hyderabad, Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir have lower allocation despite high caseloads. New judges should be allottedor transfers madeto courts depending on pending cases. And the judicial appointments and transfers should be based on the metric of workload per judge.

Currently, the collegium (which comprises of the Chief Justice of India and four senior most judges of the Supreme Court) recommends the appointments and transfers of judges. The collegium does not have any place in the Constitution.

The government had recommended the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) as a constitutional body to replace the collegium system of appointments of judges. However, the Supreme Court rejected the NJAC Act.

Given the high pendency of cases and high vacancy in the Allahabad High Court, transparency in the allocation of judges is very important, said Vinod Kumar Singh, senior advocate, High Court of Allahabad (Lucknow bench). I hope the collegium makes the allocation process more transparent.

But for the system to heal, the process of higher judicial appointments needs a fundamental rejig, Member of Parliament Baijayant Jay Panda, wrote in The Times of India on 18 January, 2018. SC would do well to review its NJAC decision; if it does not, Parliament must re-enact something similar.

The article was first published in IndiaSpend.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 12)  Storm signals are raised in several areas in the Visayas and Mindanao as Tropical Storm "Basyang" moves toward eastern Mindanao, the state weather bureau said on Monday.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in its 2 p.m. update it expects Basyang (international name: Sanba) to make landfall in Caraga Region on Tuesday morning.

Surigao del Sur is under signal number 2. The following areas remain under storm signal number 1:

Visayas:

Southern portion of Samar

Southern portion of Eastern Samar

Leyte

Southern Leyte

Bohol

Cebu

Negros Oriental

Negros Occidental

Siquijor

Mindanao:

Dinagat Islands

Surigao del Norte

Agusan del Norte

Agusan del Sur

Camiguin

Compostela Valley

Davao Oriental

Davao del Norte

Misamis Oriental

Misamis Occidental

Lanao del Norte

Lanao del Sur

Bukidnon

Northern portion of Zamboanga del Norte

Northern portion of Zamboanga del Sur

As of 1 p.m., Basyang was at 570 kilometers east southeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

Basyang moves west northwest at 22 kilometers per hour (kph). It packs winds of 65 kph near the center, and gusts of 80 kph.

PAGASA warned of possible flash floods and landslides in the affected areas, while fisherfolk and those with small seacrafts are advised not to venture over the seaboards of Northern Luzon, eastern seaboards of Central and Southern Luzon, Eastern Visayas, and in areas under tropical cyclone warning signal.Salman Husaini Nadwi is highly revered among the Muslims in Lucknow. He had earlier to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and expressed support for the Islamic State.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) parted ways with one of its more influential members as it sacked cleric Salman Husaini Nadwi, who had said that shifting of the mosque in Ayodhya is permissible. Nadwi had recently courted controversy after he met Sri Sri Ravi Shankar over the Ayodhya dispute and said at the board's meeting that shifting of the mosque is possible according to the Sharia.

Nadvi was expelled on the recommendation of a disciplinary committee, News18 reported. On Saturday, at the general body meeting of AIMPLB, many of the 500 participants said Nadvi should be removed from the board. AIMPLB referred to Nadvi's statement on the shifting of the mosque and said it is not acceptable and the remarks were made in his personal capacity.

Referring to Nadvi's remarks that a mosque can be shifted as per the Sharia (Islamic law), the board said it had made its stand clear that masjid is the "home for Allah". "Masjid always remains like that. It cannot be shifted or gifted or sold. This is Sharia. Salman Nadvi's stand is opposite to this. He made it clear that he did not want to change his stand," it said.

Nadwi is a Lucknow-based leading Islamic cleric and is a senior lecturer and mentor at Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulama. His Facebook page describes him as having served the Muslim community in India through various methods over the years. He established the Madrasat al-Imam Ahmad ibn Irfan al-Shahid al-Islamiyyah in 1975, which is a noted institution of Islamic learning. He has a masters degree in Hadith  a record of the traditions or sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, revered as a major source of religious law and moral guidance, second only to the authority of the Quran.

He is highly revered among the young generation of Muslims in Lucknow. For he is not only a senior faculty member (mudarris) in Lucknows most reputed Islamic seminary, but also a founder-ideologue of a Lucknow-based global Islamic organisation of Muslim youths widely known in the Arab world as 'Harkatul Shabab al-Islami' (movement of Islamic youths).

He is also a man of letters.

Wrote to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi to express support for Islamic State

Nadwi had earlier made headlines when he had written a letter to pay allegiance and extend congratulations to Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in mid-2014. Given that the congratulatory letter was issued by a senior teacher in Indias leading madrasa, it was interpreted as an indication of the attitude and approach of the Lucknow-based clergy towards the emergence of a global Islamic caliphate. However, in his letter, Nadwi was only a spokesperson of the petrodollar-funded Wahabi seminaries in India. Indias mainstream Muslims and spiritually-inclined Sufi leaders issued an open letter to Nadwi with unequivocal statements castigating his inclination towards al-Baghdadis conception of the Islamic state.

Nadwi, later, backed out after facing widespread criticism. Writing in The Milli Gazette, Nadwi blamed the media for their journalistic dishonesty as he alleged that they had distorted his statements. He then criticised the activities of the Islamic State and said they are "wrong from the Islamic point of view and only help to defame Islam".

He, then, warned all Muslims to not be cheated by the group and until they prove their sense of justice and broad-mindedness required by Islam, people should not be influenced by this group.

In an interview with Firstpost, Nadwi admitted that he had written a congratulatory letter to Baghdadi. However, he also justified his support for what he initially thought of as an 'Islamic state of the true Quranic principles of caliphate'.

Nadwi said, "I congratulated Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi on the point that he had registered victories against the cruel atrocities of Shias in Iraq (shion ke zalimana mazalim). He further said that in the letter he had advised Al-Baghdadi to establish good relations with other countries as well as with India and not to kill ordinary people just because they belong to different sects, i.e. mainly the Shia sect. "However, Al-Baghdadi continued to promote sectarianism (anti-Shia killings) and the violence spread to other countries". "Now, Daesh is on the path of Kharijites. They talk about Islam but Islam se bari hain (are out of Islam)."

Proposed to raise a militia for a "powerful global Islamic army"

Nadvi also wrote a long and passionate letter to the Saudi government offering to raise a militia of 5,00,000 Sunni Muslim Indian youth as his contribution to a "powerful global Islamic army". He proposed the army would fight Shia militants in Iraq and "help Muslims in need" elsewhere. The army would become part of a Caliphate that he wants Saudis to set up for the Muslim ummah, the international Muslim community.

He also suggested that terrorists should not be referred to as terrorists as they were engaged in a noble cause and called for a confederation of all jihadi organisations so that they could transform themselves into a single powerful global force.

His offer of raising an Indian Muslim militia to fight on foreign lands which has caused a stir even in the normally complacent Muslim quarters as it comes amid mounting concern over the increasing radicalisation of young Indian Muslims who had far defied the global Islamisation trend.

Letter to Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan

After a failed military coup in Turkey in April 2016, Nadvi wrote a letter on praising Erdogan and denouncing Fethullah Gulen as the mastermind of the Turkey coup. He also expressed regret at the successful coup led by Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Egypt, reported DailyO. The report attributed this support to the fact that both Erdogan and Morsi are prominent figures representing political Islam.

With inputs from agenciesEven as BJP claimed that the Narendra Modi-led government has done maximum for Andhra Pradesh, the state has refused to relent. Reports have indicated that chief minister and Telugu Desam Party supremo N Chandrababu Naidu instructed his partymen to keep up pressure on BJP till justice is done to the state.

Even as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed that the Narendra Modi-led NDA government has done maximum for Andhra Pradesh, the state has refused to relent. Reports have indicated that chief minister and Telugu Desam Party supremo N Chandrababu Naidu instructed his partymen to keep up pressure on BJP till justice is done to the state. Naidu's unwillingness to relent to BJP's overtures is not without reason. The sentiments in the state are so strong that the perceived injustice is the spotlight of the day. Here's why:

1. The Government of India is supposed to compensate for the revenue deficit as the residuary state of Andhra Pradesh lost capital city Hyderabad to Telangana. This city accounted for the lion's share of the combined state income. The revenue deficit was initially estimated at Rs 16,700 crore. The amount was later revised by the Centre to Rs 7,500 crore and the central government only paid Rs 3,977 crore. While the Andhra government claims that the revenue deficit to be paid by the Centre is Rs 12,500 crore, the Centre claims that the due in this regard is merely Rs 138 crore.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told Parliament that the central officials are discussing the issue with the state officials to arrive at a consensus on how much should be paid to the state in this regard. But, nothing seems to be materialising much to the chagrin of Naidu administration. The state government, meanwhile. has proposed that the Centre may appoint a committee headed by none other than the former IAS officer YV Reddy to settle the dispute. However, a senior functionary in the state government who is in the knowledge of things told Firstpost that the Centre is not forthcoming in this regard.

2. The re-organisation of the state was strongly opposed by the people of Seemandhra, who now constitute the residuary state of Andhra Pradesh. But, as the then UPA government took a political decision to bifurcate the state, special category status was promised to Andhra Pradesh to assuage the feelings of the people of the state. Thus, the bifurcation of the state was predicated upon the assurance by the then prime minister on the floor of the House and the two cannot be separated. In fact, the BJP has been demanding special status for ten years. However, the UPA government conceded to this demand and agreed to grant such a status to Andhra Pradesh for a period of only five years.

Despite the fact that senior BJP leaders like M Venkaiah Naidu and Jaitley were the authors of special status, the Narendra Modi government has refused to grant special status to Andhra on the pretext that the concept of special status seizes to exist with the new devolution formula proposed by the 14th Finance Commission.

However, the NDA government promised special package in lieu of specials status. As per this, it was promised that the Centre would fund to the tune of 90 percent in regard to centrally funded schemes. Thus the additional central grant is arrived at Rs 16,447 crore. The Centre proposed to compensate this through higher central component in Externally Aided Projects (EAPs). But, the execution of such projects would take time. Therefore, the state preferred direct fiscal transfers. As half of the 14th Finance Commission period was already over, the state government desired 50 percent of payment. But, the state government also argued that the Centre has hardly paid Rs 400 crore.

3. The State Reorganisation Act promised railway zone for Visakhapatnam. But, even this decision is inordinately delayed as Odisha seems to be not in favour of it as it would lose the earning centre like Vishakhapatnam. Though the Centre is not making it explicit, it is clear from even a cursory look that the BJP, due to its political stakes in neighbouring Odisha, is dragging its feet on implementing the provisions of an act passed by Parliament. The argument that the Vizag railway zone will be unviable is fallacious as Vijayawada and Guntakal will be added to Vizag zone once it is separated. When Ram Vilas Paswan could ensure railway zone for Hajipur and it is viable, why can't Visakhapatnam, opined leaders from Andhra.

4.The reorganisation act has also promised to set up a steel plant in the backward Rayalaseema district of Kadapa. The district has iron ore mines. The state government has even offered to give these mines as captive mines for the proposed steel plant on free of cost basis as the quality of the ore is low grade. This offer of the state government would make the proposed steel plant viable as raw material itself accounts for 50 percent of cost of production. While the private steel plants of Tatas, Jindals etc. have been allotted captive mines by the government of India, the public sector Visakhapatnam Steel Plant is denied such captive mines forcing the plant to incur losses. Inflicting further insult on the state, now the Centre is not coming forward to set up Kadapa steel plant despite state reorganisation act recommending it.

5. As per the act, the Polavaram project will be taken up as the national project and the Centre would bear the expenses. But, due to inordinate delay in clearing the bills, the state government is incurring an interest burden of Rs 300 crore. To avoid this, the state urges the Centre to create a revolving fund but to of no avail.

6. As per the reorganisation act, the centre has agreed to provide funds for the development of necessary infrastructure in seven backward districts of Rayalaseema and North Coastal Andhra. So far only Rs 1,050 crore were released at the rate of Rs 150 crore per district. What kind of infrastructure can be created with this meagre funding, only centre should know.

7. The reorganisation act also mandates Centre to fund the construction of a green field capital at Amravati for the state of Andhra Pradesh as the existing capital of Hyderabad became the capital of Telangana. However, no specific resources were mentioned in the act. Taking advantage of this, the NDA government has granted only Rs 1,500 crore so far. The fact that the underground drainage works taken up in Vijayawada and Guntur were also included in this head on the pretext that these two cities also fall in the capital region has further infuriated the state.

8. The centre has to set up Dugarajapatnam Port in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh. But, the construction encountered certain objections as sensitive ecosystem of Pulicat Lake and the satellite launching station ISRO of Sriharikota, are very near to Dugarajapatnam. But, the centre neither addresses these hurdles nor propose an alternate place.

9. Andhra Pradesh should also get a petroleum refinery and cracking unit as per the bifurcation package. But, the HPCL-GAIL consortium is reportedly seeking a viability gap funding of Rs 1,200 crore per year for a period of 15 years from the state government. The state feels this is unfair as it is the assurance of state bifurcation and any such viability gap funding should come from the centre itself.

10. To implement the state reorganisation act centre has already setup several educational institutions in the state. But, the flow of funds is tardy and the these institutions are yet to take off in any significant manner.

Andhra feels that is has been let down. Neither the provisions of state reorganisation act nor the promises made therein and thereafter have been fully implemented leaving no other option for the state but to protest.

The author is a former MLC from Telangana and currently teaches journalism at the Osmania UniversityThe Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Council saw uproar and protests by BJP members who demanded to slap of an FIR and suspension of senior NC lawmaker Mohammad Akbar Lone for raising a pro-Pakistan slogan in the state Assembly

Jammu: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Council on Monday saw uproar and protests by BJP members who threatened to slap of an FIR and demanded suspension of senior NC lawmaker Mohammad Akbar Lone for raising a pro-Pakistan slogan in the state Assembly.

BJP members later staged a walkout from the House.

As Legislative Council met for the day, BJP members raised the issue and demanded an apology from the NC leader.

BJP MLCs Surinder Ambardar and Vikram Randawa said it was not a minor issue and demanded a statement from the National Conference asking it to clear its stand on the action against its member.

They also demanded an FIR under sedition charges against the member who was present in the house and stayed silent.

The BJP members said that Lone had taking oath in the name of Indian Constitution and had raised pro-Pak slogans.

"BJP demands an apology from the NC MLA and an FIR should be registered against him. He should be suspended for sedition," Ambardar said.

NC members countered the BJP saying that Lone's remarks had been expunged and the party had disassociated from the slogan.

Legislative Council Chairman Anayat Ali said, "we cannot do anything in this as he is a member of the Lower House and not a member of this House".

On this, the BJP members carrying banners walked into the Well of the House and then staged a walkout.

Talking to reporters outside, Ambardar said it was unbecoming of a lawmaker to raise pro-Pak slogans when he has taken oath under the Constitution of India.

"NC leadership, Dr Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, should clarify their stand and remove the member from the party for raising pro-Pakistan slogans in Assembly. By this act National Conference has again assumed its old title of Muslim Conference," Ambardar said.How should we understand radical Islamic cleric Salman Nadvi when he surprises everyone by advocating a compromise to move the Babri mosque from Ayodhya?

How should we understand a radical Islamic cleric when he surprises everyone by advocating a compromise to move the Babri mosque from Ayodhya to somewhere elsewhere? On 8 February, Syed Salman Husaini Nadvi met Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Bengaluru where, along with some other Muslim leaders, Nadvi argued that it is permissible in Islam to shift the Babri mosque, paving the way for an out-of-court settlement. Three days later, on 11 February, he was sacked as an executive member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, which reiterated the commonly held clerical position that a mosque cannot be gifted, sold or shifted.

Nadvi is a pro-jihad cleric who founded the Jamiat Shabab-il-Islam (Organisation of the Youth of Islam) in 1974. This is a radical group that seeks to mobilise the youth for Islamic causes and accuses non-Muslims of spreading unbelief among Muslims, observing: "The flag-bearers of disbelief: Jews, Christians and Polytheists [i.e. Hindus], concentrated all their efforts to detract the Muslim youth from the mainstream of Islam." This organisation went on to establish in 1989 the Jamia Syed Ahmad Shaheed, a madrasa that aspires to become a university. Salman Nadvi has stated that the madrasa was "named after that Islamic hero to revive his reformation and revival movement." In Islam, all jihadi groups call themselves reformist.

So, who was Syed Ahmed Shaheed  who is praised by the Taliban in Pakistan every day? Syed Ahmed Shaheed  of Rae Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh  was a young delinquent who did not complete school-level Islamic studies. However, along with his discipline Shah Ismail Dehlvi, he launched the first jihad in India in early years of the 19th century  not against the British rulers, but against Punjab, which was under the Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780-1839, ruled 1801-1839). It is not surprising then that Syed Ahmed Shaheed is a hero for Nadvi, who issued a congratulatory letter to Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi of the Islamic State soon after Al-Baghdadi declared himself as the Emir-ul-Momineen (the leader of Muslims) in 2014.

Although Nadvi has tried to explain away his congratulatory message to Al-Baghdadi, his radical teachings remain a cause of concern. According to a video from the Middle East Media Research Institute, he was expelled by Oman last year for lambasting the Saudi king and US president Donald Trump whom he called "pimp" and added: "People who ally themselves with them  be it one of the kings of the Two Holy Places [in Saudi Arabia] or anyone else  are considered one of them. Do not take the Jews and the Christians as allies."

While Nadvi's efforts for an out-of-court settlement of the Ayodhya dispute must be lauded, his statements on the issue have to be placed in context. There are four ways to understand Salman Nadvi's position on the issue of the Babri mosque and the need for an out-of-court settlement. First, it is possible that humans can change and therefore, perhaps he is suddenly a changed man out to advocate communal harmony in India. It is clear that he has done considerable thinking over the issue of the Babri mosque. And it appears that his 8 February meeting with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was perhaps the third, with two previous meetings on 20 January and 3 February being kept secret. However, given his previous record, this explanation appears to be weak.

Following is the second possibility. On a tour of Uttar Pradesh during the 2017 Assembly elections, I met Nadvi in Lucknow. During the meeting, the cleric was sweet, short and curt in answers to all my questions until I asked him about his congratulatory letter to Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi. He suddenly became full of life, stating: "I congratulated Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi on the point that he had registered victories against Shion ke zalimana mazalim (the cruel atrocities of Shias in Iraq)." Nadvi does not think that Shias are Muslims. Most Barelvi/Sufi groups too agree on this point. This could be the strongest reason why he has suggested the shifting of the Babri mosque.

An editorial from an Urdu monthly magazine called Allah ki Pukar (the Call of Allah), from the issue of December 2017, is posted on the Facebook page of Nadvi. The editorial clarifies that the Babri mosque was built not by the Mughal ruler Babar but by his Shia Governor of Oudh Mir Baqi Tashqandi and "was known by his name" as "Mir Baqi Masjid"  not under Babar's name. Once the status of the mosque is clear as belonging to a Shia, then theologically it becomes acceptable to Nadvi that it is not a Muslim mosque since, according to him, Shias are not Muslims.

Third, once it is established that the Babri mosque is not a Muslim mosque, the editorial offers justifications from the Islamic Sharia for its shifting to another place. But arguments remain on whether even a Muslim mosque can be shifted. The editorial asks: i) Does the Babri mosque (Mir Baqi mosque) have special religious status when compared to other mosques? ii) Is there no other mosque for the Muslims of Ayodhya to offer prayers? iii) Can a mosque be shifted to another place under exceptional circumstances? iv) If it is not possible to offer prayer in a mosque, does it retain its status as a mosque? v) How do the Quran and Hadiths (traditions of Prophet Muhammad) guide us in this regard? vi) What does Islamic jurisprudence say about it?

Giving arguments from Islamic Sharia, the editorial comes to many conclusions, including that in Islam the worship is not for the land  namely the land of the Babri mosque  but to Allah. All the conclusions reached in the editorial facilitate the key argument that the Babri mosque can be shifted. The fact that the editorial was posted on Nadvi's Facebook page means he endorses such a step, which of course, is against the commonly held view among Islamic clerics.

Fourth, there is another likely reason behind Salman Nadvi's stand in favour of an out-of-court settlement: maslaeh  expedience or prudence. In Islamic theology, expedience has been a long-standing principle accepted by all leading scholars. This principle of maslaeh was discussed in detail in an article published by Tahqeeqat-e-Islami, a quarterly scholarly magazine published from Aligarh. Leading Islamic scholars such as Imam Ibn Taymiyyah and Shah Waliullah Dehlvi accepted this principle. It is possible that Salman Nadvi too is inspired by this principle and deems it useful to resolve the Ayodhya dispute. We must not forget that for a somewhat similar reason, most Islamic clerics, including Jamaat-e-Islami founder Maulana Abul A'la Maududi, had opposed the partition of India in 1947.

Tufail Ahmad is Senior Fellow for Islamism and Counter-Radicalization Initiative at the Middle East Media Research institute, Washington DC. He tweets @tufailelifEven as the Indian Army is conducting an operation to flush out unspecified number of Jaish-e-Mohammed militants who attacked the Sujuwan army camp in Jammu, the CRPF foiled an attack on its camp on Monday.

Fierce gunbattle between militants and CRPF was reported from Karan Nagar area of Srinagar, which also hosts the CRPF camp, CNN-News18 reported. According to the report, the militants were cornered during a search operation by the CRPF, which began after the paramilitary force foiled an attack on its camp in Srinagar on Monday.

According to reports, two militants, carrying bags and armed with AK 47s rifles, were seen approaching the CRPF camp in Srinagar. However, they were fired at by sentries after which they fled the spot, the report added.

#FLASH: 2 terrorists, carrying bags & armed with AK47s, were seen approaching towards CRPF camp in Srinagar, sentries opened fire after which terrorists fled from the spot. Search of camp periphery underway. pic.twitter.com/77uNZkiKat  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

Meanwhile, the operation at Sunjuwan Military Station entered Day 3 with the army launching a "clearing" operation on Sunday night. So far, five army personnel and one civilian have lost their lives. Around 12 people including personnel and civilians have been injured in the attack, ANI reported.

#JammuAndKashmir: Latest visuals from #SunjwanArmyCamp, 5 Army personnel & 1 civilian have lost their lives, 6 Army personnel & 6 civilians are injured; 4 terrorists have been gunned down; Operation underway since last 51 hours. (visuals deferred) pic.twitter.com/vOKKi6gdWg  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

While earlier TV reports said that four JeM militants had been killed, an army statement said that three heavily armed terrorists were killed in the operation.

"While two were gunned down Saturday, the body of a third terrorist was found on Sunday," the statement said. It also added that the militants were dressed in combat gear. The Army spokesperson Lt Col Anand said that AK-56 rifles, an under barrel grenade launcher, ammunition and grenades were recovered from them.

Giving details, Anand said, "So far, six fatal causalities have occurred. They include two JCOs, three jawans and one civilian dependent, all residents of Jammu and Kashmir."

One of the injured women was pregnant and she later delivered a baby girl through a caesarean operation, he said, adding both the mother and child were stable. A 14-year-old boy had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and was in a critical condition, the spokesperson said.

A National Investigation Agency (NIA) team on Sunday visited the camp and examined the evidence collected by the army from the site of the gun battle, an official said.

On Saturday, the terrorists had struck before dawn and managed to sneak into the camp from the rear end of the base after a brief exchange of fire with the sentry guarding the periphery.

Intelligence inputs had warned of an attack on an Army or security establishment by the Pakistan-based JeM in view of the death anniversary of Afzal Guru, who was hanged on 9 February, 2013, for the 2001 attack on Parliament House.

With inputs from PTIA paramilitary trooper was killed in an ongoing gunfight with militants holed up in a building after a failed terror bid on a CRPF camp in Srinagar, police said.

A paramilitary trooper was killed in an ongoing gunfight with militants holed up in a building after a failed terror bid on a CRPF camp in Srinagar, police said.

Intermittent exchange of fire continued, there were also clashes between security forces and stone-pelting youths near the site, sources in the security forces told PTI.

In the wake of the ongoing operations, the administration has suspended mobile internet services in Srinagar and heavy security has been deployed across state, CNN-News18 reported.

The trooper was wounded in the shootout as the security forces prepared for a final assault against the holed-up militants, a police officer said. The jawan belonged to the 49 Battalion of the CRPF.

He was shifted to the nearby SMHS hospital, barely 300 metres away from the site of the gunfight, and later died.

It was the same hospital from where Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba militant Naveed Jaat alias Abu Hunzula managed to escape on 6 February after killing two policemen.

Police said residents in the vicinity have been evacuated.

Troops of the CRPF and the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police were carrying out the operation against the militants. "The sentry at the camp noticed two suspicious persons around 4.30 am, carrying backpacks and weapons. He challenged them and opened fire," a spokesman of the CRPF said. After the hiding militants were challenged, they fired at the security forces triggering a gunfight.

Kashmir police chief SP Vaid tweeted:

I congratulate alert CRPF sentry for averting Suicidal attack in Karan nagar Srinagar. Fortunately 2 terrorists are in cordon & exchange of fire going on.  Shesh Paul Vaid (@spvaid) February 12, 2018

Earlier, around 4.30 am, two militants were spotted carrying bags and armed with AK-47s by an alert sentry at the observation post of 23rd battalion of the CRPF in Karan Nagar area. The two were forced to flee as the sentry fired at them. Searches in the area revealed that the militants, carrying backpacks and AK-47 rifles, had taken shelter in a building near the CRPF camp, which was then surrounded.

Rajnath chairs high-level security meet; Nirmala Sitharaman reaches Jammu

Meanwhile, following the relentless attacks on military establishments across Jammu and Kashmir, Home Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a high-level meet over the security situation. The meeting was attended by top ranking security force officials and senior bureaucrats, ANI reported

Delhi: Senior officials arrive at residence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh for a meeting over security situation in #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/mEJ5g0PeV2  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

The home minister was briefed by the Jammu and Kashmir governor NN Vohra on Sunday night about the prevailing situation. Vohra and Singh also discussed the ongoing peace initiative undertaken by Centre's representative Dineshwar Sharma and his meeting with a cross section of people, an official told PTI.

In a separate but related development Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman arrived in Jammu on Monday evening. She will hold talks with Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and also visit the injured soldiers at SMHS hospital. Sitharaman is also scheduled to hold a press conference at 6.30 pm.

Terror bid follows Sunjuwan attack

The attempted terror bid on the CRPF camp comes close on the heels of the Sunjuwan military camp attack, where five army personnel and one civilian have lost their lives. Around 12 people including personnel and civilians were injured in the attack, ANI reported. The operation at the Sunjuwan Military Station entered Day 3 with the army launching a "clearing" operation on Sunday night. Parliamentary Affairs minister Abdul Rehman Veeri told the Legislative Assembly that the operation was in its final stages.

Three suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists involved in the attack were killed in the retaliatory action by the army inside the camp and a large quantity of arms and ammunition was seized from them. The terrorists struck before dawn on Saturday and managed to sneak into the camp from the rear side of the base after a brief exchange of fire with the sentry on its periphery.

With inputs from agenciesA Delhi University student lodged an case against a man for allegedly molesting her on board a bus, according to several media reports.

A Delhi University student lodged an case against a man for allegedly molesting her on board a bus, according to several media reports.

#Delhi University student lodges FIR at Vasant Vihar Police station against a man for molesting her onboard a bus, the girl has also uploaded the video of the incident on social media, which shows the man sitting next to her & masturbating.  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

The student, who recorded the the incident on camera, accused the man sitting next to her of masturbating and repeatedly trying to touch her her waist, News18 reported. The victim said the incident occurred on 7 February on the route between Vasant Vihar and IIT Gate, according to the report.

According to a report in Indian Express, police said the incident occurred when the victim was returning home on a DTC bus. An elderly man sat next to her and leaned against her, the woman moved in her seat to avoid contact with him but he leaned against her again. "I immediately raised an alarm and told my co-passengers. I told them that the man was masturbating but no one understood what I was talking about. The accused then started asking me to calm down and he later got down, the victim alleged, according to the report.

I confronted him and told him he had no shame. He appeared drunk and didnt seem to understand what I was saying, she said. She further said that the ordeal went on for about 10 minutes but the 30-odd other passengers in the bus allegedly ignored the incident, Hindustan Times reported. One woman who too appeared to be a student just responded by saying achcha when I mentioned the incident. The man, meanwhile, got off the bus near IIT Delhi gate without any problems. I was shocked beyond belief and did not know how to react with people showing apathy. I was numb, she said, according to the report.

The video that the student uploaded on social media, showed a middle-aged man exposing and fondling himself as he used a bag on his lap to hide his actions from other passengers, NDTV reported. The victim shouted at the man but he remained unfazed, perhaps emboldened by the lack of response from other passengers, according to the report.

The Free Press Journal reported that an FIR was lodged with Vasant Vihar Police under sections 354 (sexual harassment), 354A, and 294 (obscene act in public place) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and that an investigation is underway.National Socialist Council of Nagalim Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) is one of the largest insurgent outfits, which has been demanding a separate Greater Nagland

Despite the diktat of the civil society groups and Naga organisations to boycott the upcoming Assembly elections in Nagaland over the demand of Nagalim, almost all mainstream political parties filed nominations for 27 February polls.

However, the demand for Greater Nagaland, the proposed sovereign State that will consist of all the Naga-inhabited areas of neighbouring Assam, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and a large tract of Myanmar, still looms large over the state elections.

Naga groups and demand for Greater Nagaland or Nagalim

The National Socialist Council of Nagalim Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) is one of the largest insurgent outfits, which has been demanding a separate Nagalim state for over six decades.

According to Rediff, the NSCN was a Christian Naga nationalist militant group formed after opposition rose against the Shillong Accord signed by the then Naga National Council with the Government of India.

Under the Shillong Accord, it was agreed that Naga National Council (NNC) would give up arms. However, a group of around 140 members led by Thuingaleng Muivah, refused to accept the Shillong Accord, and formed the National Socialist Council of Nagaland in 1980, according to The Indian Express. Isak Chisi Swu and SS Khaplang were two other associates of Muivah.

In 1988, the NSCN split into NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K). Today, the NSCN (IM) is seen as the most prominent among all Naga groups.

NSCN-IM is of the opinion that Naga region was never a part of India and that India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehrus argument that India had "inherited" the Naga area from the British was flawed.

The NSCN-IM demands Greater Nagaland which will have about 1,20,000 sq kilometre area. Today, the state of Nagaland covers 16,527 sq kilometre area.

Modi government's treaty with NSCN (IM)

In August 2015, Centre and the NSCN (IM) signed a landmark peace accord in the presence of Narendra Modi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to end animosity and "usher into a new era of peace".

The signing of the pact was the culmination of over 80 rounds of negotiations that spanned 16 years with first breakthrough in 1997 when ceasefire agreement was sealed.

"This agreement will end the oldest insurgency in the country. It will restore peace and pave the way for prosperity in the North East. It will advance a life of dignity, opportunity and equity for the Naga people, based on their genius and consistent with the uniqueness of the Naga people and their culture and traditions," Modi had said after the accord was signed.

The accord however, according to this Indian Express report did not involve redrawing the states borders. What the deal involved was creating a mechanism which would create institutions allowing autonomy to Naga tribes living across the border in Manipur.

Why three North East states oppose Nagalim?

In March last year, NSCN (IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah, announced that the Centre had accepted the demand for Greater Nagaland, sparking fear and anger in Manipur, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh, Firstpost had reported.

The Centre had, however, strongly refuted the claim that it had agreed to carve out Nagalim, saying no such decision was taken.

In October last year, amid the debate over whether Assam and Manipur would loose parts of its land to Nagalim, Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal had said that "not an inch of states land would be parted with", The Telegraph had reported.

Similarly, Manipur is also against the Greater Nagaland demand since NSCN (IM) wants the Naga-inhabited hill districts of Manipur included in Nagalim.

RSS' draft plan for Greater Nagaland

In January this year, Jagadamba Mall, a RSS functionary who has been working in Nagaland for the last 40 years, came up with a draft agreement between the NSCN (IM) and Government of India.

Mall had clarified that draft plan by no means was connected to the BJP or the RSS.

Mall's draft for Nagaland peace process, according to The Wire, proposed a union territory (UT) carved out of the five border districts of Nagaland. The union territory, named Frontier Nagaland, comprises five districts bordering Myanmar.

BJP plays it safe

In an interview with The Times of India on 7 February, responding to the question on BJP's stand on the demand for Nagalim, party national general secretary Ram Madhav had said that all the stakeholders would be taken into confidence before the the Naga Peace Accord was concluded.

"So people need not have any fears about any issues. The views of all the concerned sections will be taken into account. If there are any issues that need any consultation with other states, Im sure the government will do that," Madhav was quoted as saying by The Times of India.In an affidavit filed on Saturday, the Election Commission of India (EC) implored the Supreme Court to empower the electoral body to be able to de-register political parties

In an affidavit filed on Saturday, the Election Commission of India (EC) implored the Supreme Court to empower the electoral body to be able to de-register political parties, reported several media houses. The EC submitted the affidavit in the apex court in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Delhi BJP leader and lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay seeking to prevent convicted politicians from forming a political party, reported Hindustan Times. The plea also sought to direct the EC to uphold inner party democracy.

Supporting the PIL the EC, through advocate Amit Sharma, maintained that it presently does not have any authority to de-register political parties, but can only register them. It also pointed out that under Section 29A of the People's Representation Act, 1951, there is no specific provision to de-register a political party, the report added.

However, the EC can cancel political parties' registration under special circumstances such as when the party is found to have used fraudulent means to register itself. According to The Indian Express, the election body said that it needs to be empowered through amendments in the law. The EC also said it has been writing to the government since 1998 seeking to decriminalise politics. The proposal was first sent on 15 July, 1998 to the law minister at the time, the report said.

In view of several parties registering but never contesting elections, the EC maintained, "Such parties exist only on paper. The possibility of forming political parties with an eye on availing the benefit of income tax exemption also cannot be ruled out," reported News18. The EC also added that between February 2016 and December 2016, the electoral body deleted names of 255 political parties from its list of registered, unrecognised parties.

The Indian Express report also stated that the EC had sent a list of 22 proposals on electoral reforms in July 2004 to the government. The affidavit stated that in December 2016, EC sent a list of 47 proposals again to the government pleading the EC "should be given powers to deregister a political party and further, should be authorised to issue necessary orders regulating registration and deregistration of political parties, particularly in view of its constitutional mandate."

While stating that inner party democracy is absolutely essential in a country such as ours, the EC also expressed its inability to ensure such democracy at present and asked for legislative amendments to be made, according to Live Law. The matter is due to be heard by the Supreme Court on Monday, according to Zee News.Antibiotics affect all the flora and fauna around the fish farms and alter the ecosystem. Nobody is safe anymore. First you eat the fish. Then it eats you.

Ive heard many people suggest that fish is much healthier than red meat and chicken. Non-vegetarians are encouraged to make the move to fish and seafood. Some time ago I published a chart which showed that, calorie for calorie, fish was heavier than meat, and its fat content was higher. Also much higher are the pesticides, PCBs (the most carcinogenic of all chemicals) and human faeces content (as shown by the Indian Institute of Oceanography).

Breeding fish for human consumption, or aquaculture, is a fast-growing industry around the world. In India, fish production has increased by 11-fold.We have become the second largest producer of fish in the world, after China. In 2015-16, an estimated 10.4 million tonne of fish was produced in our country, making up about 6.4 percent of the worlds total production. India is the highest exporter of fish exports and our exports of fish and related products are increasing at over 14 percent annually, twice the pace of other countries.

Fish farms, encouraged by the governments policy of Blue Revolution, are popping up in all parts of the country, breeding both freshwater and saltwater fish. As the oceans and rivers lose their fish, 40 percent of commercial fish now comes from aquaculture.

How do these farms operate? There are no vets, no training systems to the villages that change their community ponds to privately managed fish farms. The villager, who is given the pond, is never educated about the anatomy of the fish, what it feeds on in the wild and what it can digest, its diseases, sanitation of the pond, maximum stocking numbers etc. All that is desired from him is that he grows the maximum number of fish and the largest ones quickly. The result is that fish growers feed the animals poorly (many of them feed them human faeces only) and rely on unnatural methods, such as chemically formulated feeds, antifungals, agrochemicals and antibiotics. Formalin and malachite green are chemicals used as disinfectants in the ponds. They are known to be toxic, but no one has banned them in India.

Fish are living beings and require the same thing as we do to stay well: wholesome, natural, pesticide-free, non-poisonous food and water. In the absence of that, they fall ill. Antibiotic use has increased substantially in fish farms and hatcheries to overcome the sanitary shortcomings and the resultant bacterial infections.

Fish are usually bred in filthy tanks or net cages. The overcrowding, and the inability to recognise and isolate diseased fish (after all there are NO fish vets in our country), encourages the quick spread of disease. In order to control and prevent this, prophylactic antibiotics are administered either by treating the water, or mixing it in the food, or giving them injections. All scientific reviews across the world have shown that this leads to elevated levels of antibiotic residues, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, persistent organic pollutants, metals, parasites and virus in aqua-cultured fish and shellfish.

Many antibiotics administered to the fish stay in their systems till they are killed. Some antibiotics are non-biodegradable and remain in the water for months. When fish die, they are mashed and thrown into the water to feed other fish. Unconsumed food and fish faeces fall to the bottom of the water body and leach into the ground. Commercial ponds for fish are almost never drained or cleaned. When one batch of fish is taken out and killed, the antibiotics in the water affect the next batch of fish in the same tanks.

Two things result: the fish become immune to particular antibiotics and so more and more intense combinations have to be tried out on them to keep them alive. These transfer through their meat to the eater. But the vegetarian falls prey as well. The water leaches onto the land that grows vegetables and grains. Those coastal aquaculture farms in Odisha send the contaminated water out into the sea. The antibiotics are washed out to distant places and eaten by other fish including shellfish. So, even people selling wild fish to consumers are selling contaminated dead bodies.

Many antibiotics used to treat fish are also used for the treatment of human diseases. Oxytetracycline, sulfamerazin, flumequine, sarafloxacin, erythromycin and ormethoprim, for example, are used to treat bacterial infections, skin ulcers, diarrhoea, septicaemia, kidney disease etc. in salmon, catfish, trout and other commercially-raised fish. In regulated countries, like Italy, investigations show that trout and seabass have concentrations of antibiotics between 250 to 600 milligrams per kg. In India, which is entirely unregulated, the concentrations will be much higher.

Till today, nowhere in the world and least of all in India are there any standard disease prevention and treatment regulations for aquaculture. Since there are no antibiotics specifically designed for fish, human antibiotics are used. In the United States, it is estimated that 150 pounds of antibiotics are put into every acre of pond. Norway uses natural structures like fjords for salmon farming and from there the antibiotics spread into the ocean.

When humans eat antibiotically infested meat, then their bodies become resistant to these medicines. A team of British and Irish scientists has documented that fish pathogens, such as Aeromonas, can transmit their antibiotic resistance to human pathogens such as E.coli. E.coli and salmonella bacteria are now resistant to trimethoprim, sulphonamide and streptomycinall previous front-runners in combating these two infections that take an increasing number of human lives every yearand the reason is fish . Scientists have demonstrated that the bacterium that was responsible for the Latin American epidemic of cholera in 1992 was antibiotic resistant as a result of heavy use in the Ecuadorian shrimp industry.

The use of quinolones has been restricted for use in aquaculture-industrialised countries because they are vital for human infections. They are not biodegradable and remain in the ground for years. However, quinolone use is totally unrestricted in India, China and Chile. For example, in Chile, 10-12 metric tonnes of quinolones are used for humans and 110 tonnes are used in aquaculture annually. In China and India, quinolone resistance has emerged as an important public health problem.

Apart from building drug resistance, the consumption of antibiotics has other serious repercussions on humans. It alters the flora in our bodies, creating the risk of bacterial infections. (In layman's terms, when you take antibiotics over a period of time, do you not notice the change in faeces? This shows that the flora in your intestines has changed and digestion is different). Humans become vulnerable to allergies. These remain undiagnosed because you are unaware of the antibiotics that you have been eating. Over a period these make the body vulnerable to major diseases like cancer. For example, the residue of chloramphenicol in food can result in aplastic anaemia, leading to serious bone marrow diseases. Nitrofuran antibiotics are known to cause cancer.

We are all vulnerable to the fish farm antibiotic epidemic that is being inflicted on us in the name of money. You will eat them directly through fish or fish products. You will drink them in the water that comes from underground sources that have been contaminated with discarded water from the fish ponds. You could irrigate your crops with water not knowing that it has been the recipient of antibiotic rich fish water. This water may also be consumed by other animal species, the meat or milk of which humans then consume. Antibiotics affect all the flora and fauna around the fish farms and alter the ecosystem. Nobody is safe anymore. First, you eat the fish. Then it eats you.

The World Wildlife Fund Salmon Aquaculture Dialogue commissioned a report on chemical use in salmon farming across the world. The committee of expert scientists found this use of large-scale antibiotics can only be explained by excessive prophylactic (preventive) use. This is, in general, the result of shortcomings in rearing methods and hygienic conditions that favour animal stress, opportunistic infections and their dissemination.

It is time that we understand what we are doing in the name of boosting the economy. There is no point making money if most of it is going to create hospitals to treat "untreatable" disease.

If we are going to continue with this unsustainable blue revolution (the Green revolution has been an unqualified disaster. No pests were eliminated and the ground is now contaminated beyond repair. Each farmer is in debt due to his utter dependence on pesticide, fertiliser and huge amounts of water) we need to get the fundamentals right.

Instead of trying to reach goals of More, Bigger, Faster, we need to put our attention on how to make sanitary conditions better, stop the overcrowding, create fish veterinarians and inspectors, ban antibiotics. Until this is done, stop eating fish, and the next time you hear someone rave about how fish is healthy, share this with them.

To join the animal welfare movement contact gandhim@nic.in, www.peopleforanimalsindia.orgMetro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 12)  House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez on Monday said he will not implement the Ombudsman's order to dismiss House Deputy Speaker and Cebu 3rd district Rep. Gwendolyn Garcia over grave misconduct charges.

"My appropriate action is not to implement the order. Why? Because there is nothing in the Constitution that allows me to do that. In fact, it is not within the power of the Ombudsman to discipline much more to remove a member of the House of Representatives," he said.

Alvarez said he will be violating the Constitution if he implements the order, adding the decision should have been released when Garcia was still a governor.

Garcia, as then Cebu governor, allegedly entered into unauthorized contracts with Supreme ABF Construction in 2012. The contractor supposedly received over P24 million after winning a public bidding for supply and delivery of materials in the almost P99-million Balili property in Tinaan, Naga, Cebu.

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales said the contracts were not approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan or provincial board.

"She failed to point out the specific provision in the appropriation ordinance which supposedly authorized her to enter into the contract," the decision, dated January 15, 2018, read.

The order states Garcia is perpetually disqualified from holding public office, her eligibility to hold such office cancelled, and her retirement benefits forfeited.

House Majority Leader Rudy Farinas said the plenary will have to vote on whether this will be carried out.

The Ombudsman added Garcia violated the Administrative Code and the Government Auditing Code, which ban entering into a contract unless a certification of appropriation and fund availability for the expenditure is issued.

Garcia said she will "not touch on the merits of the case" and leave it up to Alvarez.

She also raised suspicion at the order, saying the Ombudsman was "singling [her] out."

"The timing is rather suspect... You wonder whether this was purposely done, precisely because I am very active in this impeachment hearing against Chief Justice [Maria Lourdes] Sereno," said Garcia.

She added she will remain active in the hearings.

Garcia also said the Aguinaldo doctrine should have been applied in her case, as she was still a governor at the time when she allegedly committed the offenses.

The Aguinaldo doctrine, which was established in a 1992 case before the Supreme Court, states that "offenses committed, or acts done, during a previous term are generally held not to furnish cause for removal." The rule is a condonation of the official's misconduct to the extent of doing away with the right to remove him or her from office.

Sereno and Morales were appointees of former President Benigno Aquino III. Both have raised concern and criticism against the Duterte administration.

Garcia's chief of staff told CNN Philippines they have yet to receive a copy of the dismissal order.

For his part, Farinas, who also chairs the House Committee on Rules, also cited the case of Senator Joel Villanueva, who was ordered dismissed by the Ombudsman over an offense he allegedly committed when he headed the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. The Senate did not carry this out.

He said the House pushed for a bill amending the anti-graft law to exempt incumbent officers from preventive suspension over an offense linked to a previous and different office.

The Ilocos Norte lawmaker said the measure will allow preventive suspension only on issues related to a current position.

The House approved the bill on the third and final reading in November 2017. The Senate has yet to approve a counterpart measure.

Meanwhile, the Ombudsman also found Provincial Accountant Emmanuel Guial guilty of simple neglect of duty for certifying disbursement vouchers as complete without Sangguniang Panlalawigan authorization

Bids and Awards Committee chairperson Marivic Garces; vice chairperson Bernard Calderon; members Manuel Purog, Emme Gingoyon, Ma. Junelene Arenas, Cristina Giango, Rosalinda Jao; and acting provincial treasurer Roy Salubre are also facing administrative charges.Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat will arrive in Kathmandu on Monday on a three-day visit to Nepal to attend its Army Day, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of establishment of the Himalayan nation's unification

Kathmandu: Indian Army chief General Bipin Rawat will arrive in Kathmandu on Monday on a three-day visit to Nepal to attend its Army Day, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of establishment of the Himalayan nation's unification.

General Rawat is visiting Nepal at the invitation of Nepal Army chief Rajendra Chhetri.

The Indian Army chief will attend as special guest a function being organised by the Nepal Army to mark the Army Day, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of establishment of the country's unification.

The late King of Gorkha Prithvi Narayan Shah united dozens of smaller states into a greater Nepal in 1769, when he conquered the Kathmandu valley.

"There has been close and cordial relations between the Nepal Army and Indian Army since a long time and there is a tradition of inviting chiefs of Nepalese and Indian Army during special occasions," said a statement issued by the Nepal Army.

Such high-level visits between the two armies will further strengthen bilateral relations and promote mutual interests, the statement said. Rawat's trip is a regular visit and there is a tradition of exchange of visits between the chiefs of the two armies.

Last year, General Rawat was conferred the title of honourary general of the Nepal Army by Nepalese President Bidya Devi Bhandari.The meteorological department has predicted moderate to heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir during the next couple of days, while a high-danger avalanche warning has been issued for parts of the state

Jammu: The meteorological department has predicted moderate to heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir during the next couple of days, while a high-danger avalanche warning has been issued for parts of the state.

Following the reports, the Jammu and Kashmir government on Sunday asked the authorities concerned to be in a state of readiness to meet the situation.

According to an official spokesperson, a high-danger avalanche warning has been issued by Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) for Tangmarg-Gulmarg sector in north Kashmir, medium-danger avalanche warning for Srinagar-Jammu national highway and a low to medium danger warning for higher reaches of other parts of the state.

Minister for disaster management, relief rehabilitation and reconstruction Javaid Mustafa Mir has asked the divisional and district disaster management authorities to be in a state of readiness in view of the MeT forecast.

He directed the divisional commissioners of Jammu and Srinagar to ensure that necessary measures be put in place to ensure minimum disruption of services. Mir also said based on the avalanche warnings and adverse weather reports, movement of vehicles on vulnerable roads should be restricted as a precautionary measure.

The minister, who is personally monitoring the situation, asked the public to take adequate precautionary measures in case of heavy snowfall and to drive vehicles with utmost care. He directed the chief engineer of the mechanical

engineering department to position their snow clearing machines at strategic locations beforehand.

Mir also directed the commissioner of Srinagar Municipal Corporation and the chief engineer of the power development department to keep their staff in readiness, the spokesperson said.The army said that the search operation was underway in its Sunjuwan camp, which was attacked by a group of suspected JeM terrorists, killing six persons, including five soldiers

Jammu: The army said on Monday that the search operation was underway in its Sunjuwan camp, which was attacked by a group of suspected JeM terrorists, killing six persons, including five soldiers.

Three suspected Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists involved in the attack were killed in the retaliatory action by the army inside the camp and a large quantity of arms and ammunition was seized from them.

"The search operation is still on (at the camp)," Jammu-based army public relations officer Lietenant Colonel Devender Anand told PTI.

A group of heavily armed men struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry before dawn on 10 February. Five army men, including two junior commissioned officers (JCOs), were killed in the attack.

Several blasts were heard inside the camp late last evening, breaking a lull after the initial exchange of fire, but the army said the blasts were the result of sanitisation operation and there was no afresh contact with terrorists.

Parliamentary Affairs minister Abdul Rehman Veeri told the Legislative Assembly that the operation was in the final stages.

He said that the injured army personnel included a lieutenant colonel and a major.

The latest attack on the army camp took place nearly 15 months after the Jammu region was hit by a similar attack.

The last terror attack in the Jammu region had taken place on 29 November, 2016, when terrorists stormed the army's Nagrota camp on the outskirts of Jammu city, killing seven army personnel including two officers.

Three terrorists were gunned down in the operation.

The terrorists had struck before dawn on Saturday and managed to sneak into the camp from the rear side of the base after a brief exchange of fire with the sentry on its periphery.

"The terrorists entered the family accommodation complex after which quick response teams cordoned off the area and isolated the terrorists, who are holed up in a few houses (inside the camp)," an official said.Around 20 girls walked out of an Ernakulam orphanage in Kerala on Friday night alleging they were harassed by nuns, according to a media report.

Around 20 girls walked out of an Ernakulam orphanage in Kerala on Friday night alleging they were harassed by nuns, according to a media report.

#NewsAlert - About 20 girls in the age group of 7 to 15 complained of harassment by sisters and walked out of an orphanage at Ernakulam, Kerala on Friday night. The girls told the Police that they were beaten up by the sisters and there were days when they were not given food. pic.twitter.com/MxPjBQUIZm  News18 (@CNNnews18) February 12, 2018

According to CNN-News18, the girls, in the age group of seven years to 15 years, complained that they were beaten up by the sisters and not given food on several occasions. The girls belonged to the Christ King Orphanage.

A complaint has been filed at the local police station under Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act. Section 75 deals with punishment for cruelty to a child and states that those who abuse or assault a child will be punished upto three years in prison or/and fined upto Rs one lakh.After several suicide attempts at Mantralaya  the Maharashtra state secretariat  nylon nets are being installed there, to prevent people from doing so.

Barely four days after a man committed suicide at Mumbai's Mantralaya  the Maharashtra state secretariat  authorities swung into action, albeit not quite in the way that one may have anticipated. Nylon nets are now being installed at the building to prevent such incidents.

According to a report in Marathi newspaper Loksatta, nylon nets are being installed outside the lobby of the building. The work of setting up the nets began on Monday, the report said.

On 8 February, a 45-year-old man committed suicide by jumping off the fifth floor of Mantralaya. The man, Harshal Raote, was convicted of killing his sister, and was out on parole since 10 January. A day earlier, a 32-year-old unemployed man attempted suicide outside the building. Following these incidents, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis called for an overhaul of the building's security system.

The decision to set up nylon nets at the building led to barbs from the Opposition. Dhananjay Munde, Opposition leader in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, slammed the Devendra Fadnavis-led government, asking if this was its development model.

- @CMOMaharashtra ,      ? Is this Mantralaya or Circus premises? To prevent suicide government placed net inside Mantralaya premises. Good initiative but government should take preventive measures to eradicate root cause of suicide attempts. pic.twitter.com/tdssxqeS0Y  Dhananjay Munde (@dhananjay_munde) February 12, 2018

In January, 84-year-old Dharma Patil consumed a poisonous chemical at Mantralaya to protest low returns offered by state government while acquiring his land for a solar power plant. On 23 March, 2016, Madhav Kadam, a farmer from Nanded district, attempted suicide by consuming an insecticide at Mantralaya.

With inputs from PTINarendra Modis landmark visit to Ramallah, the first-ever by an Indian prime minister, is reflective of the muddle that is Indian foreign policy.

Narendra Modis landmark visit to Ramallah, the first-ever by an Indian prime minister, is reflective of the muddle that is Indian foreign policy.

It is tempting to contextualise the visit as an attempt to de-hyphenate and delink Indias relationship with Israel and Palestine. It is tempting also to speculate that a pro-Arab outreach will help India in booking a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) seat. But that is little more than fanciful thinking. In reality, these symbolisms never work, and carry little meaning without an overarching foreign policy framework.

For reasons proximate and divorced, Modis Ramallah visit and laying of a wreath on Yasser Arafats grave are gestures pregnant with intended and unintended consequences. While Modi may feel that the outcomes could be controlled and harnessed for regional peace and stability and rise of Indias stature as a global power, such assumptions are misleading when it comes to a continuous, corrosive and complex dispute that has resisted all global attempts at reconciliation.

It is unclear whether this so-called de-hyphenation will deliver tangible benefits for India, or as some optimists have argued, go a long way in establishing peace between Israel and Palestine. What it will doubtlessly do, however, is send a series of confusing signals about the direction of our foreign policy which under Modi appears directionless: A set of disconnected virtue-signalling impulses.

The prime minister is hard at work to elevate Indias status as a regional heavyweight and an aspiring superpower with an increasing say in global comity of nations, but these objectives will never be met as long as our policy-making is based on morality instead of realpolitik. The fulcrum of a successful foreign policy is self-interest, not grandstanding.

There was simply no need for Modi to include Ramallah as a stop in his West Asia trip. There is very little economic, geopolitical or strategic logic. This isnt to argue against Modis larger West Asia outreach, however. Since assuming office in 2014, the prime minister has visited UAE, Saudi Arabia Qatar and Israel. Coinciding with Modis ongoing trip, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was in Saudia Arabia where India was the guest of honour at the annual Janadriyah festival.

As professor Harsh V Pant writes in DNA, Iranian president Hassan Rouhani is also expected to be in India this month and Saudi king Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud later this year. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a high profile visit to India last month. Clearly, the region is engaging New Delhi with a degree of seriousness not evident in the past.

Indias engagement with the Arab world is independent of its stance on the Palestinian conflict: Driven by historical ties, well-manicured positions, enduring people-to-people connect and commercial realities. Indias stand on the two-nation theory is consistent and clear. We voted against the US and Israel at the UN on Jerusalem. Therefore, it is not as if keeping Palestine out of the itinerary would have jeopardised Indias interests in West Asia.

It does seem as if through his trip to West Bank, Modi felt the need to balance Indias growing proximity with Israel. The question is, why this need for a balance? Was it an assurance? If so, whom was it aimed at?

It has been speculated that Modis Palestine trip is to reassure the Muslim population back home that Indias recent bonhomie with the US and Israel isnt an anti-Muslim alliance. Scholar Shairee Malhotra writes in Israeli newspaper Haaretz that if India and Israels proximity is aimed at boosting a shared narrative of extreme nationalism, exclusion and defining Muslims as the enemy, we, in India, must discredit it.

Such a reactionary approach is the bane of policy-making. Just as Indian Muslims are unlikely to feel threatened by India and Israels convergence in a number of areas including but not limited to terrorism, they are similarly unlikely to be impressed by Modis trip to Ramallah. Domestic politics is not driven by foreign policy choices, though the former frequently shapes the latter. If Muslims in India have their reasons in not voting for the BJP, those reasons wont go away just because Modi flew to West Bank in a chopper from Jordan.

It is also improbable to find strategic logic in Ramallah trip. It wont get us a seat on the UN high table. As Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies senior fellow Abhijit Iyer-Mitra writes in The Quint, The only thing that will ensure Indias UNSC seat is a powerful economy: Not support for a lost cause that even Arabs have no time for, while treating their own Palestinian emigres poorly and forming secret alliances with Israel against Iran.

While the upsides of the trip are not clear, the downsides are many and specific. In laying a wreath on Arafats grave and visiting a mausoleum in honour of the departed leader, Modi showered fulsome praise on Arafat.

Abu Ammar was one of the greatest world leaders. His contribution to Palestine is historical. He was a good friend of India. I paid tributes to him in Ramallah. pic.twitter.com/3E0bxCCSj5  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 10, 2018

The encomiums to describe a leader who remains at best controversial and whose legacy is questionable do little to enhance Indias position as a key player in the international arena with a clear set of strategic and geopolitical objectives. The comments were widely covered by Israeli media and perhaps raised more than a few eyebrows (Indian PM lays wreath on arch-terrorist Yasser Arafat's grave); (In Historic Palestine Visit, India's Modi Hails Arafat as 'One of World's Greatest Leaders') but it is not about India-Israel relationship alone.

For a country plagued with the menace of cross-border terrorism, Modis praise of Arafat considerably dilutes Indias non-negotiable stance on terrorism. Despite being a Nobel Laureate, which according to some commentators was bestowed on him to propagate a western myth to justify the so-called peace process, the PLO founders rule has been adjudged to be a disaster for Palestinians, for Israel, and for US policy in West Asia.

As James Phillips, senior research fellow for West Asia at The Heritage Foundation writes, Arafat leaves Palestinians much worse off than when he returned to Gaza in July 1994. Under Arafat's leadership the Palestinian Authority became corrupt, unaccountable, and dedicated to protecting Arafat's interests, rather than those of the Palestinian people. His refusal to end terrorism has poisoned the peace negotiations, led Israel to re-occupy Palestinian areas and close its borders to Palestinian workers, and crippled the Palestinian economy. Palestinian parents have been horrified to find their children brainwashed into becoming suicide bombers and cannon fodder for Arafat's revolutionary pipe-dreams.

Arafat's obituary in the London-based The Telegraph described him as the instantly recognisable face of Palestinian nationalism but failed in both war and peace to achieve his dream of an independent Palestinian state.

To shower praise on such a troublesome figure (ironically coinciding with a spate of attacks on Indian army from Pakistan-sponsored terror assets) is to jeopardise Indias stance on the intersectionality of global terrorism. After all, one cannot justifiably argue against differentiating between good and bad terrorists and then praise to the high skies a figure described as the Father of Modern Terrorism.

As Hudson Institute senior fellow Lee Smith pointed out, Arafats 1974 UN speech promising either an olive branch or a freedom fighters gun was clear: If I dont have peace on my terms, there will be death. This was two years after the massacre of Israeli athletes at the Munich Olympics and only months after hed personally ordered the assassination of American diplomats in Sudan. What was Arafats peace? He was always clear about thisit meant Israels destruction.

The problem with virtue-signalling in foreign policy is that it is essentially a cop-out, the easiest of all options undertaken by leaders in democracies who shy away from bearing the consequences of their actions.

To quote from Nikolas Gvosdev in The Perils of Virtue Signaling in Foreign Policy, Virtue signaling assumes that there is always an easily-accessible best course of action and ignores the prudential realist observation, as summed up by Amitai Etzioni, that real-world policymakers rarely are choosing between great options and instead are trying to choose the least worst approach from what is otherwise an undesirable menu of policies.

This is important: Indias foreign policy choices in striking a strategic partnership with the US and highlighting convergence of interests with Israel  in areas of terrorism, defence, cyber security, big data, water, food security, etc  are aimed at achieving a set of objectives. To achieve these objectives, it is imperative that Indian foreign policy doesnt get lost in the maze of virtue-signalling or remains tied to the bootstraps of non-alignment.

It is easy to ignore that Jawaharlal Nehrus moves were as much driven by ideology as by strategic logic arising out of the Cold War-era and Indias still fresh memory of colonialism. That world has ceased to exist. Modi must chart his own path. He must be bolder to create own legacy.Sitharaman was in Jammu on Monday to meet the injured soldiers and civilians and assess the security situation at the Sunjuwan military camp.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said Pakistan was resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration and asserted that Islamabad was expanding its "arc of terror" to areas south of the Pir Panjal Range in Jammu region. "Pakistan will pay for this misadventure, I repeat, Pakistan will definitely pay the price of this misadventure," Sitharaman responded in as strong words as these to the questions of media persons about the Sunjuwan army camp attack in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.

Sitharaman was in Jammu on Monday to meet the injured soldiers and civilians and assess the security situation at the Sunjuwan military camp. She also held a brief meeting with Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti over the security situation and conducted an aerial survey of the military camp in Jammu, which came under assault on Saturday.

Sitharaman, however, said infiltration across the LoC had ebbed due to the deployment of the anti-infiltration obstacle system (AIOS) and a dynamic multi-layered counter infiltration grid.

Thereafter, speaking at a press conference, the defence minister stated that the evidence collected thus far in the preliminary investigation suggests that the militants enjoyed local support in the area.

"The demography of the cantonment and the adjoining area indicates a possibility of local support to the terrorists before the final operation," Sitharaman said in a statement she said read out to the press. "The evidence is being scrutinised by the National Investigating Agency, which will soon furbish a detailed report," she added.

She also blamed Jaish-e-Mohammad group for the attack, claiming that there was evidence to indicate that the terrorists may have infiltrated from across the border some time back and were being controlled by their handlers in Pakistan. "The attack was sponsored by Azhar Masood residing in Pakistan and deriving support from there in," ANI quoted her as saying.

She said the terrorists, sponsored by Azhar Masood in Pakistan, chose to attack a military station which houses both troops and their families.

The cantonment is located on the outskirts of Jammu, approximately 30 kilometres from the international boundary in a semi-urbanised environment with a densely populated civilian locality, she said.

The counter terrorist operation at the military camp was called off this morning but sanitisation operations were still on, she added.

"The counter terrorist operation in Sunjuwan military camp was called off at 1030 hours today. However, sanitisation operations are still on," she told reporters.

"Pakistan is expanding the arch of terror in areas south of the Pir Panjal ranges and resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration. The government is taking strong action," Sitharaman said.

Giving details of the military operation after the attack on Sunjuwal camp, Sitharaman said that there were intelligence inputs of a possibility of such an attack in the region, because of which Quick Response Teams (QRT) were positioned in the area, including the family quarters in the cantonment.

"The intrusion was promptly detected by the sentry and nearest QRT, who responded, and this immediate action forced the militants to split up individual positions and thwarted an attempt to carry out a coordinated attack. The scattered terrorists reached the family quarters and occupied some of the blocks" the defence minister said.

She also said that the cleansing operation had to be done deliberately slow to rule out possibility of collateral damage as the militants were dressed in battle fatigues similar to the army's. The security forces meticulously combed through 189 flats and eliminated three terrorists, she said.

"The operation entailed the deliberate search of 26 blocks and safe evacuation of families from 189 flats which was time consuming and a challenging task, she said.

This was successfully achieved with no fatal casualties to our troops. "Six fatal casualties, including a civilian, were caused by the terrorists due to their firing on unarmed service personnel and their dependents during the initial seizing of the residential quarters in an attempt to gain forceful entry into the family quarters," she said.

"There were some initial reports about four terrorists being involved in the operations, but the fourth militant was perhaps only a guide and it appears that he did not enter the cantonment area," she said.

"Pakistan has been violating ceasefire to help infiltrators. Activities of terrorists in the hinterlands are severely curtailed due to relentless efforts of security forces," she said.

She also claimed that the infiltration bids being aided and abetted by Pakistan were being successfully controlled by the security agencies and the government too was in the process of improving vigilance support and infrastructure in the border areas.

In the end, I wish to express my deepest condolences on the loss of lives of our brave soldiers and their families during the dastardly attack on our unarmed soldiers and assure our nation that their sacrifice would not go in vain, she said.

On her meeting with Mehbooba, Sitharaman remained tight-lipped and refused to comment on the former's earlier requests to start dialogue with Pakistan. Sitharaman, however, said that she held a "detailed" discussion with the chief minister and was grateful to her for giving her time at such a short notice.

Sitharaman said that like her, Mehbooba too had come back from visiting the hospital after meeting the injured and she was "emotionally charged" over the attack. "What sort of a system is this in which even women and children are being attacked?," Sitharaman quoted Mehbooba as saying.

"We are in a situation where there is an elected government in Jammu and Kashmir. We must work together," she said.

The defence minister also refrained from giving a detailed response to questions relating to the FIR against Major Aditya in the Shopian firing incident in which three civilians were killed. She insisted that the matter remained subjudice and that the government "stands firmly in support with the army."

"Ministry of Defence will stand by the army. We will not let them down," she said.

With inputs from agenciesDays after falling short of quorum to hold a cabinet meeting, Pinarayi Vijayan asked his cabinet to ensure that all are in attendance for five days a week.

Thiruvananthapuram: Days after falling short of quorum to hold a cabinet meeting, Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday asked his cabinet to ensure that all are in attendance for five days a week.

The dressing down came after Vijayan faced severe flak for failing to proceed with the cabinet meeting on Friday as the prescribed cabinet strength was not met. The special cabinet was called to clear 10 ordinances for Governor P Sathasivam's approval.

However as only six cabinet members were present, including Vijayan, the Chief Minister was forced to call off the meeting. As per the convention, the prescribed quorum in Kerala is fixed as majority of the cabinet. The strength of the present state cabinet, including Vijayan, is 19.

Soon after assuming office in May 2016, Vijayan had asked his colleagues to ensure that all of them be present in the state capital for five days a week.

However, after a while, that was scaled down to four. Despite that, just six were present on 9 February.

On Friday after word went around that the cabinet meeting could not take place for want of quorum, the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party opposition came down heavily on Vijayan and the way he was governing the state.A day after RSS sanghsarchalak Mohan Bhagwat claimed that his outfit has the ability to prepare an 'army' within three days, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday took to Twitter seeking RSS' apology to the country.

A day after RSS sanghsarchalak Mohan Bhagwat claimed that his outfit can prepare an "army" within three days, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday took to Twitter seeking RSS' apology to the country. In his tweet, Rahul said that Bhagwat's speech was an insult to every Indian as it disrespects those who had laid down their lives for the country. He also added that Bhagwat's statement insulted the National Flag and every soldier who salutes it.

Rahul signed off with the hashtag #ApologiseRSS, indicating that the Congress would be seeking Bhagwat's apology over the remark.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

Bhagwat on Sunday had said the organisation has the ability to prepare an "army" to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises. The RSS chief said this while addressing the workers at a zilla school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur.

"Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the army would do in six to seven months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so," Bhagwat said.

Sangh is neither a military nor a para military organisation, rather it is like a "parivarik sangathan" (family organisation) where discipline is practised like the army, he said adding that workers are always happily ready to make the supreme sacrifice for their country.

With inputs from PTIA high-level security meeting over the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir will be held in Delhi's North Block at 4 pm. It will be chaired by Rajnath Singh.

Following the relentless attacks on military establishments across Jammu and Kashmir, the home ministry has called a high-level meeting over the security situation in the state.

The meeting scheduled to take place in Delhi's North Block at 4 pm on Monday will be chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh to brief over security situation in #JammuAndKashmir at 4 pm in Delhi's North Block  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

Jammu and Kashmir has been witnessing series of attacks on security establishments both along the Line of Control and the International Border as well as in the interior regions.

On Monday a gunfight ensued between security forces and militants, who took shelter in a building in Karan Nagar area of Srinagar after their attempt to strike a CRPF camp was foiled earlier. A CRPF jawan was injured in the exchange of fire.

"The sentry at the camp noticed two suspicious persons at around 4.30 am, carrying backpacks and weapons. He challenged them and opened fire," a spokesman of the CRPF said.

The militants fled from the spot and took shelter in an under-construction house nearby, the officials said. The building has been cordoned off by the CRPF.

According to senior CRPF officials, there were two militants. Intermittent exchange of fire was reported and the CRPF moved in more troops to ensure that the militants do not escape.

The gunfight on Monday came two days after Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militants attacked an army camp in Sunjuwan, Jammu, killing six people including five soldiers.

In that attack, a group of heavily-armed JeM militants dressed in army fatigues stormed the military camp in a pre-dawn attack, hurling grenades and spraying automatic gunfire as they entered the family quarters when everyone was asleep, officials had said.

Defence sources said that soldiers at the Sunjuwan Military Station close to Jammu city noticed suspicious movement near the camp around 4.45 am. Suspecting they could be militants, the soldiers challenged them. But the gunmen hurled grenades and opened fire from automatic weapons, the sources said.

As Firstpost had earlier pointed out that the Sunjwan Militar Station and the CRPF camp in Srinagar are not the only establishments that have been attacked in recent times.

Over the last few years, militants have attacked army bases in Mohra and Tangdhar in north Kashmir. They were followed up with attacks in Kathua and Samba of Jammu division. The most devastating attack took place at the Pathankot airbase which put brakes on the fragile India-Pakistan bonhomie.

Recently, militants had attacked a paramilitary base in the highly fortified Humhama area outside Srinagar city.

What's different this time though is that unlike previous attacks which saw militants targetting security establishments along LoC and the International Border, with Sunjuwan they have come close to Jammu city.

With inputs from agenciesMetro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 12) - A Senate panel wants to issue a warrant of arrest against former Commission on Elections Chairman Andres Bautista for once again skipping a hearing on his alleged unexplained wealth despite a subpoena.

The warrant of arrest has yet to be approved by Senate President Koko Pimentel.

The threat of an arrest comes after Bautista once again skipped the Senate probe on Monday despite an order to attend, but he gave an explanation for his absence.

In a letter to the Senate, Bautista said he has been out of the country since November 21, 2017 to seek professional opportunities and medical assistance. For this reason, he is asking the Senate panel to withdraw the subpoena.

"I respectfully ask that the subpoena be recalled since I never received the invitation," he said.

The subpoena order from a Senate panel said if Bautista fails to show up on the fourth hearing on his alleged unexplained wealth, he will be cited in contempt and possibly arrested.

Senator Francis Escudero, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banks, Financial Institutions and Currencies, issued a subpoena on January 23 to compel Bautista to attend hearings on his alleged unexplained wealth after he failed to attend the third hearing.

Escudero said the committee has sent three invitations to Bautista since the inquiry began on August 23, but the resigned Comelec chief has not given reasons for his absence and he did not even send a representative.

Bautista's estranged wife, Patricia, in August 2016 accused him of amassing ill-gotten wealth and having around P1 billion in his bank accounts, which he failed to disclose in his 2016 Statement of Assets and Liabilities (SALN).

She said he acquired all these assets through "misleading and corrupt practices while in office."

The resigned Comelec Chairman said he was being blackmailed and extorted by Patricia.The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Monday clarified over Mohan Bhagwat's statement claiming that the Hindutva outfit can prepare an army within three days. In a statement issued by ideologue Manmohan Vaidya, the RSS claimed that Bhagwat's words had been 'misrepresented' by the media.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Monday clarified over Mohan Bhagwat's statement claiming that the Hindutva outfit can prepare an army within three days. In a statement issued by ideologue Manmohan Vaidya, the RSS claimed that Bhagwat's words had been "misrepresented" by the media.

In its clarification, the RSS said that while the Indian Army takes about six months to prepare the society in the event of a war, Swayamsevaks can be trained in just three days as they practice discipline daily. The statement said that Bhagwat did not compare the RSS with the Indian Army, claiming that he instead was comparing the "general society" with the Swayamsevaks.

While speaking at a zilla school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur, Bhagwat on Sunday had said the organisation has the ability to prepare an "army" to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises.

"Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so," Bhagwat said. Sangh is neither a military nor a para military organisation, rather it is like a "parivarik sangathan" (family organisation) where discipline is practised like the army, he said adding that workers are always happily ready to make supreme sacrifice for their country.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kirren Rijiju came to the support of Bhagwat. In his tweets, Rijiju reiterated what the RSS had clarified and turned the tables on the Congress, claiming that it wanted to divide the army on religious lines in the past.

Indian Army is our pride. In emergency situation(not congress emergency) every Indian must volunteer to stand with Defence Forces. Bhagwat ji only said it takes 6-7 months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has the ability to contribute.  Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) February 12, 2018

Who had asked for proof of surgical strike from Indian Army? Never try to politicise Indian Army. Congress tried to dilute the Army in 2004 on religious lines by head counting but Army firmly stood the ground. https://t.co/7nNI1BHR2x  Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) February 12, 2018

The RSS clarification came just hours after Congress president Rahul Gandhi tweeted on the issue and sought RSS' apology for insulting the Indian Army. Moreover, Youth Congress will be launching a protest in front of the RSS office in New Delhi.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

With inputs from PTI

AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday alleged that Moulana Salman Hussaini Nadvi is acting at the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create rift in All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).

AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday alleged that Moulana Salman Hussaini Nadvi is acting at the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create rift in All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). He also called for social boycott of those calling for giving up Babri Masjid.

"Some people are dancing at the tune of Modi," said the Hyderabad MP without naming Nadvi, who was removed from the board on Sunday for mooting a proposal to handover the land of demolished Babri Masjid in Ayodhya for construction of Ram temple.

Addressing a public meeting organised by the board at the end of its three-day plenary, Owaisi launched a bitter attack on Nadvi for going against the board's stand that there can be no compromise on Babri Masjid.

On the eve of the 26th plenary which began on Friday, Nadvi met Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in Bengaluru and mooted the formula that the land on which Babri Masjid stood till 6 December, 1992 should be handed to Ram temple in exchange for an alternate land to build a mosque and a university.

Speaking at a rally, Owaisi refused to compromise on the Babri Masjid issue and said, " After the Babri Masjid issue, these people ( the BJP) will go after some other masjid."

#BREAKING - After sacking Nadvi from AIMPLB, Owaisi now calls for social boycott. pic.twitter.com/I0v68KqBRJ  News18 (@CNNnews18) February 12, 2018

"He (Nadvi) is saying that his proposal is to ensure peace and unity in the country. Should we also give up Masjid-e-Aqsa (Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem) for unity in Arab," asked Owaisi.

The MP claimed that Nadvi was one of the clerics who signed a 'fatwa' in 2001 that a mosque remains a mosque for eternity and hence Muslims can't give up Babri Masjid.

He also alleged that Nadvi had also given a fatwa in support of terror group Islamic State, which is responsible for massacre of Muslims in Syria, Iraq and other countries. "

"Modi you are giving political patronage to those who had given fatwa in favour of Islamic State," said Owaisi.

The MIM chief said Modi using some people to create a rift in AIMPLB by suggesting that Muslims give up Babri Masjid.

He said the prime minister and those dancing at his tunes will not succeed in their attempts as the board is a symbol of Indian Muslims and united platform of all Islamic schools of thought.

With inputs from IANSThe Supreme Court bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, directed that no coercive action can be taken against those named in the Shopian firing FIR till the government responds

The Supreme Court on Monday issued a notice to the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir government, seeking a reply within two weeks over the Shopian firing case in which three civilians were killed.

#BREAKING - Supreme Court stays FIR against Major Aditya and other Army officers in Shopian case. The apex court issues notices and seeks reply from the government in 2 weeks. pic.twitter.com/hQNUEiDwfa  News18 (@CNNnews18) February 12, 2018

The Supreme Court bench, comprising Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice AM Khanwilkar on Monday directed that no coercive action can be taken against those named in the FIR till the government responds in the next two weeks, reported CNN-News18. This means that Major Aditya Kumar cannot be arrested, or coerced by police officials.

The court also asked the counsel for Lieutenant Colonel Karamveer Singh, Kumar's father, to share the copies of his petition with the office of Attorney General KK Venugopal and the Jammu and Kashmir government.

"The court is acknowledging the fact that the matter requires consideration of the highest court of the land and has stopped proceedings in FIR. The state or Jammu and Kashmir police can't take action against Major Aditya for what he did in exercise of his duty," said Mukul Rohatgi, the petitioner's counsel.

The Jammu and Kashmir police filed an FIR against Kumar and other unnamed army personnel involved. Kumar was the only officer identified by his name in the FIR. The case was registered under Section 302 (murder) and Section 307 (attempt to murder) of the Ranbir Penal Code.

Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) Karamveer Singh, Kumar's father, filed a petition in the apex court to quash the FIR. It is uncommon for police personnel to name army soldiers involved in such firing, especially in states where the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is enforced.

Singh, in his petition, said his son was "wrongly and arbitrarily" named in the FIR as the incident related to an army convoy that was on bonafide military duty in an area under the AFSPA and was isolated by an "unruly and deranged" mob pelting stones, causing damage to military vehicles.

Singh also said that his son's intention was to save army personnel and property and the fire was inflicted "only to impair and provide a safe escape from a savage and violent mob engaged in terrorist activity".

He also sought direction for guidelines to protect the rights of soldiers and adequate compensation so that no army personnel is harassed by initiation of criminal proceedings for bonafide actions in exercise of their duties.

On 27 January, three youths were killed in Ganowpora village of Shopian district in Jammu and Kashmir when the army fired at stone pelters. The police registered an FIR against 10 Garhwal Rifles unit of the army in this firing incident. The army had said the soldiers fired in self-defence after an administrative convoy was attacked by stone pelters in the village.

In response to the FIR, the Indian Army filed a counter FIR on 31 January. "The major was not present at the site of the incident. He was around 200 metres away from it... he was in the vicinity of the spot," a source told PTI.

In his plea, Singh also referred to last year's incident of a mob lynching DSP Mohammed Ayub Pandith to apprise the top court about the situation in the state and the condition in which army officials were working to control violent mobs in Kashmir.

While the BJP has demanded the FIR against the army be withdrawn in the Shopian firing case, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said the investigation into the deaths of the civilians would be taken to its "logical conclusion".

Jammu and Kashmir Police chief SP Vaid earlier said that registration of the FIR naming the major was just the beginning of the investigation and the army's version would be taken into account as well.

With inputs from agenciesJKCCS, a human rights organisation in Kashmir, has condemned the Supreme Court order staying police investigation against Major Aditya Kumar of 10 Garhwal Rifles. The organisation called the stay of investigations 'irregular' and 'against the established norms of criminal procedure'

The Jammu and Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society (JKCCS), a human rights organisation in Kashmir, called the Supreme Court order staying police investigation against Major Aditya Kumar of 10 Garhwal Rifles "irregular" and "against the established norms of criminal procedure".

The JKCCS published a press release on Monday entitled "Judicial intervention for impunity continues" and criticised the Supreme Court order. It said that the families of the victims of the firing in Ganovpora had informed them that the killings were targeted and unprovoked.

The organisation, in its press release, said:"Courts rarely interfere in ongoing investigations. The FIR is a recording of information of a cognisable offence (for example murder and other serious offences). When in receipt of such information, the police are duty bound to lodge the FIR and begin investigations," they said.

JKCCS added that self-defence and other such justifications for the action could not be considered at the stage of registration of FIR and it could not be the basis to quash the FIR, as the petition in the Supreme Court sought. "The army is entitled to its rival version of events (including in the form of a counter-FIR) but the claims of the army cannot be used to prevent the registration of an FIR at this stage and investigations on the version of the victims or other persons that the army firing was an act of murder," the body said.

The organisation said that proper or fair investigations were a rarity for the armed forces in the state, and hence it was not surprising that impunity for the armed forces in Jammu and Kashmir was "entrenched".

"While the police rarely file FIRs against the armed forces, it is even more rare for them to carry out any proper or fair investigations resulting in the filing of a chargesheet. Further, even when investigations indict the armed forces, either sanction for prosecution under Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is declined or the armed forces successfully transfer the cases to the opaque court-martial process that often result in acquittals."

The body, in its press release, further accused the Supreme Court of "favouring" the armed forces, citing the examples of the 2000 Pathribal fake encounter and 2010 killing of Zahid Farooq. It added that the apex court restricted the powers of the lower judiciary, and in this case, even curtailed the powers of the police vis-a-vis the armed forces.

JKCCS stated that the legal impunity for the forces was a consequence of a larger "moral and political impunity" for their actions in Jammu and Kashmir. "Past actions of the State  including the judiciary  under Indian domestic law that have ensured impunity for the armed forces, and the reality of Jammu and Kashmir  an armed conflict  clearly indicate that justice is only possible in Jammu and Kashmir under the broader framework of international law, including international humanitarian law," the body said.

JKCCS said that the scuttling of legal processes against the armed forces is only "strengthening the belief that there can be no expectation of justice from the Indian State and its institutions."

SC restrains Jammu and Kashmir Police from 'coercive steps'

The Supreme Court on Monday restrained the Jammu and Kashmir Police from taking any "coercive steps" against army officers, including Major Aditya Kumar, who has been named as accused in the Shopian firing case in which three civilians were killed.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud also asked the counsel for Lieutenant Colonel Karamveer Singh, the father of Major Aditya Kumar, to share the copies of his petition with the office of Attorney General KK Venugopal and the Jammu and Kashmir government. Besides seeking Venugopal's assistance in dealing with the matter, the bench asked the state government to file its response to the plea within two weeks.

Singh said in his petition that his son, a major in 10 Garhwal Rifles, was "wrongly and arbitrarily" named in the FIR as the incident relates to an army convoy that was on bonafide military duty in an area under AFSPA and was isolated by an "unruly and deranged" mob pelting stones, causing damage to the military vehicles.

Three civilians were killed when army personnel fired at a stone-pelting mob in Ganovpora village of Shopian, prompting Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti to order an inquiry into the incident.

The FIR was registered against the personnel of 10 Garhwal Rifles, including Major Kumar, under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Ranbir Penal Code.

With inputs from agenciesAlthough the number of active militants was only 3 in Jammu region, the attacks on heavily fortified army camps in last one year has revealed the presence of a strong over ground workers (OGWs) network assisting the militants

The attacks on the army camps in Jammu region in the past, including Saturdays assault on Sunjuwan military station in which at least five army men were killed, has raised several questions over the claims made by the security agencies that Jammu has been turned into a militancy-free zone.

Inspector General of Police, Jammu range, SD Singh Jamwal, said that the number of militants in the region has now been restricted to 3, who operate in the Doda-Kishtwar areas. He said that militancy has been curbed in Jammu region for the past few years. Another senior police official said that 3 active militants belonged to the Hizbul Mujahideen militant outfit.

In contrast to Jammu, a total of over 200 militants are active in Kashmir with the recruitment of militants picking up since July 2016 after the killing of Hizbul commander , Burhan Wani.

Although the number of active militants was only 3 in the region, the attacks on heavily fortified army camps in last one year has revealed the presence of a strong over ground workers (OGWs) network assisting the militants to plan these attacks, police officials said.

A police official said that the militants who managed to sneak into the army camp with heavy ammunition had made an elaborate plan for the attack, "which couldnt have been pulled off without the support of local OGWs."

"The militants carried out a reconnaissance of the area for some days before mounting an assault. The incident has shown that militants are able to carry out attacks anywhere in Jammu with support of OGWs," he added.

Moreover, even though the militants' presence was not as heavy in Jammu as it it is in Kashmir  where the militants also carry out training in the local forest areas  security forces believe the constant shelling along the International Border (IB) and the Line of Control (LoC) in the region "was helping out in the infiltration".

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu, Vivek Gupta, said that there was a possibility that the militants who attacked the Sunjuwan camp may have recently crossed the border from Pakistan.

"The militants could reach most of the Jammu city areas within few hours after crossing the border," he said, adding however that the "investigation in the attack was going on."

But the attack on Sunjuwan camp, which has prompted the security agencies to maintain a state of high alert in the Jammu region, isn't the only instance of successful militant attacks. In November 2016, heavily armed militants of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) had attacked the field regiment of army in Nagrota resulting in the killing of seven army men and three militants.

In January 2017, militants killed three labourers working for the General Reserve Engineering Force (GREF) after attacking their camp close to the International Border(IB) in Akhnoor.

Meanwhile, security officials further see the constant firing by the Pakistani troops along the LoC and IB as a "bid to push in the militants." On Friday a woman was killed as Pakistani troops fired on civilian habitations in Poonch area of Jammu region, while firing continued on Sunday.

In the several incidents of border shelling and firing in 2017, at least 30 people were killed, including the army and BSF men along the LoC and International Border  with most number of casualties inflicted in the Jammu region. As per the government statistics along the near 221 kilometre IB in Jammu and Kashmir the number of ceasefire violations in 2014, 2015 and 2016 were 430, 253 and 221 respectively.

However even as the security officials have increased the vigil both along the LoC and IB after the Sunjuwan encounter, they said that the situation was not "as difficult in the region as was for nearly 20 years between 1990 to 2010."

The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel have increased the vigil along the border under 'Operation Alert' to prevent the militants from sneaking in from across the border, while a general security beef up has been ordered in the Jammu region.

"The regions of Doda-Kishtwar and the Poonch-Rajouri had seen heavy incidents of militancy previously, which has been curbed now," a security official said.A former BJP MLA on Monday asked farmers in Madhya Pradesh to recite Hanuman Chalisa to protect their crops from natural calamities like hailstorm.

Bhopal: A former BJP MLA on Monday asked farmers in Madhya Pradesh to recite Hanuman Chalisa to protect their crops from natural calamities like hailstorm.

Vaigyanikon ne bataya hai ki agle 4-5 din tak prakritik prakop rahega, oley bhi aayenge aur baarish bhi hogi. Is aapda se bachne ke liye ek matra upaay hai Hanuman Chalisa. Sabhi kisaan bhaiyon se nivedan hai ki pratidin 1 ghanta Hanuman Chalisa ka path karein: Ramesh Saxena, BJP pic.twitter.com/vX9gzToR6r  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

Ramesh Saxena found support for his suggestion from Minister of State for Agriculture Balkrishna Patidar, who said the recitation of the devotional hymn in praise of Lord Hanuman would boost the "inner strength" of the farmers.

As rain and hailstorm in the state in the last 24 hours were learnt to damaged standing crops, the former MLA, in a video appeal, asked the farmers to recite Hanuman Chalisa every day to ward off threats from calamities.

"Meteorologists are saying that a natural calamity may strike in the coming 4-5 days. There may be hailstorm and rain. There is only one solution to this: farmers should recite Hanuman Chalisa collectively in their respective villages," Saxena, a former legislator from Sehore, said in the video message that has gone viral on the social media.

When contacted, Patidar said there is nothing wrong in Saxena's message.

"There is nothing wrong in this. The recital of Hanuman Chalisa would bring relief and increase the inner strength of farmers," he told reporters.Angered over the killing of a Dalit student of Allahabad University, students on Monday went on a rampage, setting a bus on fire

Allahabad: Angered over the killing of a Dalit student of Allahabad University, students on Monday went on a rampage, setting fire to a bus.

The angry students also laid siege to the house of District Magistrate Suhas LY, police said.

Brutally assaulted by four men, Dalit student Dilip Saroj died on Sunday night after slipping into a coma. He was attacked outside a restaurant in Colonelganj on Friday night.

A waiter at the restaurant, Munna Singh Chauhan, has been arrested and two policemen have been suspended.

Angry varsity students aligned to the Samajwadi Yuvjan Sabha (SYS) and the All India Students Association (AISA) took out a protest march on Monday and raised anti-government and anti-police slogans.

Demanding the immediate arrest of the culprits, the students also sought adequate compensation for the deceased student's family.

Saroj was an LLB second-year student and hailed from Pratapgarh. A video of the killing has gone viral, leaving the police red-faced.

No one in the Uttar Pradesh government has reacted to the gruesome killing which incensed the opposition parties.

Efforts to speak to Health Minister Siddhartha Nath Singh, a legislator from Allahabad and spokesman for the Uttar Pradesh government, went in vain as he did not take calls.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has slammed Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the killing of the Dalit student.

In a statement, she said the atmosphere in the country and the state had become "vicious and violent" due to the politics pursued by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath on Sunday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of projects worth Rs 400 crore in Mathura on the death anniversary of Hindutva icon Deendayal Upadhyaya.

Mathura: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of projects worth Rs 400 crore in Mathura on the death anniversary of Hindutva icon Deendayal Upadhyaya.

While schemes costing Rs 195 crore were inaugurated after completion, foundation stones were laid for projects worth Rs 214.15 crore in the district.

Governor Ram Naik unveiled the statue of Upadhyaya at the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Veterinary University in Mathura.

On the occasion, the chief minister asked his cabinet colleague SP Singh Baghel to introduce new courses in the university.

"Make arrangement for starting BTech in Dairy and Fisheries at Deen Dayal Veterinary University from forthcoming session", Adityanath asked Animal Husbandry, Minor Irrigation and Fisheries Minister Baghel.

Terming Deen Dayal Upadhyaya a "karmyogi", Naik said that it was only because of his stress on "Antyodaya" that the 65 percent "jhuggi jhopari" (slum dwellers) population of Mumbai, got the benefits.

He said it paid rich dividend to BJP since activists of the party followed the line and today the party has its government in different states and the Centre.

"The Indian politics, at the time of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya was revolving between capitalists and socialists", Naik said.

However, 'Ekatma Manavavad' and 'Antyodaya' were welcomed, since the development has no meaning unless person standing last in the queue gets benefits.

Upadhyaya was one of the top leaders of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the forerunner of the present-day Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He had propounded the theory of "Antyodaya", or uplifting the last person in the queue.

He said installation of statue of Upadhyaya in the university is a befitting tribute to a "apostle of downtrodden."

Adityanath also drew a parallel between the ideologies of Upadhyaya and Mahatma Gandhi.

"While Gandhi had visualised 'gram swara', Upadhyaya used to see India with the Indian angle and not a foreign one", Adityanath said.

He said, Upadhyaya's thoughts on agriculture, industry, education, among others are novel and practical.

"An industrial policy would not be a success, unless it consists of man, money, management, material, market, motivation and machinery," the chief minister elaborated.

His ideology was different from that of Lohia and Marx , as these were "impractical," Adityanath said.

According to Marx, one who earns only has the right to eat, however, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya defined it from family perspective, he said.

The base of the unity of the country, according to Upadhyaya, lies in union of the family, irrespective of who the earning member is, Adityanath said.

He rued that cow rearing, so far, has been "neglected" and noted that it has immense scope for agricultural farmer.

He asked the university vice chancellor to intensify research on cows, in order to turn them into high-yielding cattle.

He, however, added that researches should be limited to indigeneous cows only.

The chief minister earlier laid the foundation stone of Mahamana "Gau Gram" scheme in Vrindavan for the development of 108 villages.Togadia even went on to say that youths have the right to celebrate their love in whichever way they want and nobody youths without violating any law of the land and no one has any business to harass them under any garb

Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Praveen Togadia surprised many on Monday when he appeared seemingly supportive of Valentine's Day celebrations.

According to various media reports, the leader of the Hindu outfit, which has been vehemently opposed to the idea of the 'western concept', said that young men and women had the right to love.

Speaking at an event in Chandigarh, Togadia told reporters, "Prem nahi karenge to vivah nahi hoga, vivah nahi hoga to srishti kaise chalegi? Yuva aur yuvtiyon ko prem karne ka poora adhikar hai. Vo adhikar unhe milna chaiye (If couples dont fall in love, therell be no marriages. If therell be no marriages, the world wont progress. Young men and women have the right to love, and they should get this right), a Hindustan Times report quoted him as saying.

Togadia further added that youths had the right to celebrate their love in whichever way they wanted and no one had any business harassing them, according to a report in The Indian Express.

Regardless, the Hindu outfit has been planning to use the day to warn youths against what it calls the dangers of 'love jihad.' The outfit believes that Muslim men have launched a campaign to 'honey-trap' Hindu women and convert them to Islam in the garb of love and getting marriage.

Gujarat: Posters put up by Bajrang Dal in Ahmedabad ahead of #ValentinesDay pic.twitter.com/9fl9y5haN0  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

VHP and Bajrang dal leaders along with a handful of other 'Hindu' organisations have been demanding a ban on the Valentine's Day celebrations to resist the apparent 'westernisation' of 'Indian culture.' There have been reports of some Hindu outfits such as the Bharat Sena and Shakti Sena announcing they will monitor couples seen celebrating Valentine's Day.

"The groups have announced that they will be on a lookout in public places including parks, beaches, temples and cinema halls and will make sure that young couples do not celebrate the day of love on 14 February," according to an India Today report.

The VHP youth group Bajrang Dal warned pub and gift shop owners in Hyderabad against planning special events on Valentine's Day, which falls on 14 February.

The saffron outfits Hyderabad in-charge, Vishal Prasad said, "These things influence the youths and ruin their careers. These people create a public nuisance," News 18 quoted him as saying. He added that youths should not indulge in foreign culture.

Let me clarify that we are not against love. We have a problem with the obscene display happening in the name of love during days like Valentines Day... have you seen the cards that youth exchange during Valentines Day? They show couples kissing. Is that our culture? Is it how we should be celebrating love? Jwalit Mehta, Bajrang Dal Ahmedabad president told DNA.

The group has vowed to send its teams to colleges, public places to "create awareness" among the couples and urge them to not celebrate Valentine's Day. The group has been known to beat, harass couples seen celebrating Valentine's Day and and even marry them off. In 2016, VHP had "warned" youth against celebrating Valentines Day, saying it was against Indian culture, and adding that youth "project their infatuation and attraction as love," The Hindu reported.Dinesh Gundu Rao, working president of the KPCC, says the Congress doesnt need allies in Karnataka ahead of the Assembly elections and is going on its own.

The arrival of both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Karnataka within six days of each other can mean only one thing  the campaign for the Assembly polls to be held in April this year is heating up.

Dinesh Gundu Rao, four-time MLA from Gandhinagar constituency in Bengaluru and working president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) since July 2016, is a key strategist for the Congress. He has held several key party and government positions over the years, including that of the youth wing chief and more recently the food, civil supplies and consumer affairs portfolio under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Gundu Rao appears to be an playing a crucial role in KPCCs campaigning  whether addressing a hurriedly convened press conference on the Union Budget, or celebrating the partys bypoll victories in Rajasthan with Youth Congress members. On the eve of the Gandhi scions three-day visit to north Karnataka, where controversies involving the Mahadayi river and the Lingayat community are unfolding, Ayswarya Murthy interviews Gundu Rao for a primer on his partys election campaign in Karnataka.

Q: What was the outcome of the KPCCs first campaign committee meeting?

The KPCC is already in campaign mode. The meeting was held to get more leaders involved and be on the same page. Various party leaders have been on tour. The chief minister undertook a month-long campaign between 13 December and 13 January, where he visited 120 constituencies. For two weeks in March, there will be a joint campaign by all leaders, including the chief minister and the KPCC president, where we will visit 60-70 constituencies and all districts by bus, covering those missed in the earlier tours. It will be like a roadshow with the whole state unit.

Q: On the campaign trail, what would be the lower-hanging fruit for the KPCC? A pro-Congress sentiment an or anti-Modi one?

The sentiment is pro-development and pro-incumbency. There are no serious allegations against this government. We have a strong and popular leader in Siddaramaiah, who has done an excellent job as the chief minister. (BJP state chief) BS Yeddyurappa and (JDS state chief) HD Kumaraswamy are way behind.

Besides, we have the best crop of young ministers and leaders in Krishna Byre Gowda, UT Khader, Santosh Lad, Priyank Kharge, Sharan Prakash Patil, etc. We want them to go around the state and engage the youth about what has been done for them in the past four years. Today, the state is the best job creator in the country. In bringing in investments too, we are among the top three. Our outreach will highlight all this. We will go to the people with a very positive agenda.

And the government has delivered. Out of the 169 promises made during the last elections, we have implemented 155, and a few more will be implemented in the coming budget. Unlike the Modi government, which is known as a jumla government, ours has done what it had promised. We have given a stable government  no scandals, no dissidence, party infighting or groupism. Those who left the party did so for personal reasons.

Q: While you plan to ride high on the Anna Bhagya Scheme (which promises subsidised foodgrains to BPL families), what about the controversies surrounding it, including the mystery around IAS officer Anurag Tiwari's death?

Anurag Tiwari has no connection with Anna Bhagya. He was only in the department for a short time, for about 15 days or so, after which he took leave to go home. His death is being investigated in Uttar Pradesh, not here.

We are giving 7 kilograms of rice per person in addition to dal. This doesnt happen anywhere in India. In such a huge scheme, there are bound to be some issues and we have been continuously addressing them. Perhaps there could be a problem to the extent of 5 percent, and I do not deny this. But by and large, it is reaching the people.

Q: But the corruption allegations dont stop there. (Energy minister) DK Shivakumar, (Bengaluru development minister) KJ George and more have corruption cases against them.

All the allegations have fallen flat and none of them have any substantial evidence. For four-and-a-half years, they (BJP) havent been able to show anything. Now that elections are here, they have been making wild allegations every day  scam in sand procurement, scam in laptop procurement, but where are the documents? Where is the proof? Where are the formal complaints? These are pre-election gimmicks, which people will see through. They wont buy it.

Q: Congress is launching this campaign still in the glow of the moral victory in Gujarat. Any formula from there that you hope to replicate?

In Karnataka, the scenario is entirely different. There the Congress party has not won in the last 25 years. Here we are strong, in government, and have organised ourselves till the booth level. We also have powerful local leaders in every district, and popular state leaders. Rahul ji will definitely be playing a key role, and we are eager for him to come and campaign here as much as possible. But the campaign is not going to be totally dependent on one person. Instead it is going to be a galaxy of powerful state leaders working in tandem with Rahul Gandhi. Its going to be a different sort of campaign, which will fetch good results for the Congress.

Q: How secure are you about retaining the AHINDA (minorities, backward classes and Dalits) vote?

Dalits know that no government has given them the kind of funds and progress than the Congress has. So far we have allocated 24.7 percent of the budget for the development of SC/ST communities and have spent almost Rs 70,000 crore. Dalit colonies all now have concrete roads, drains and houses. Community halls and hostels are being built. We have passed a landmark legislation that gives Dalits shareholding power in co-operatives  we pay their share capital so they can be members of co-operatives, which are usually controlled by the majority communities.

For government contracts under a certain value, a percentage of the work has to be given to Dalit contractors if they are competing. Many city and ward level contracts of up to Rs 50 lakh have been awarded on this basis.

Dalits, minorities and OBCs, they are all with us because our schemes cover all sections of the society, be it loan waivers for farmers, Anna Bhagya or the Mill Subsidy programme. Sabka saath, sabka vikas is just a slogan for Modi, but the true implementation of the idea, that of social justice, is being done only by the Congress.

Q: At the Centre, Yashwant Sinha is leading the way in forming a grand opposition from across party lines against the current BJP guard. Who do you see as your natural allies in the state? Jignesh Mewani has promised to visit the state for three weeks in April. What will be your equation be with him?

Mewani is not in the Congress and his group has its own agenda. They, the progressive front and other groups like I am Gauri  they are all independent civil society campaigns. They are progressive, liberal, anti-fascist; and while this aligns with the Congress ideals, we have no truck with them. The Congress doesnt need allies in the state and is going on its own. There is no question of an alliance or coalition as we are strong in all 224 constituencies. The BJP doesnt matter in about 50 constituencies where the Congress and JDS fight each other. JDS has no presence in 130 constituencies and in 50 constituencies its a triangular fight. Thats the way it is going to be.

(Ayswarya Murthy is a Bengaluru-based reporter and a members of 101Reporters.com, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters.)The Congress released its manifesto for Nagaland Assembly elections promising that it would make an endeavour to solve the political problem of the state if voted to power

Kohima: The Congress on Monday released its manifesto for Nagaland Assembly elections promising that it would make an endeavour to solve the political problem of the state if voted to power.

The Congress manifesto for the 27 February elections was made public at a press conference by AICC Observer Captain Praveen Dawar and Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee President K Therie.

The Congress is fielding 19 candidates in the ensuing election in Nagaland out of a total of 60 seats and all of them were present during the release of the manifesto.

Quoting from the manifesto, Therie said cashless health card would be issued to all citizens thereby ensuring them for free cashless treatment.

He also highlighted setting one classroom across the state to offset the imbalance in the quality of education.

To boost employment, all departments would be encouraged to only put up projects that generate employment and which are productive.

He said agriculture sector would get special attention through Minimum Support Price to farmers to assure them returns and value addition through cold storages so that Nagalands organic food can be marketed.

"We shall increase technical seats to 3,000 with scope for increasing the intake capacity", Therie said.

The Congress state chief assured a corruption-free government with the support of the people.

"It is only the Congress which can rescue the state from the present situation," Therie said.

AICC Observer Captain Praveen Dawar urged the people of Nagaland to make the right choice and protect secularism.Questioning Rahul Gandhi's temple visits ahead of the Karnataka Assembly polls, Prakash Javadekar said Congress was earlier 'pseudo secular' but is now 'pseudo Hindu.'

Bengaluru: Questioning Rahul Gandhi's temple visits ahead of the coming Karnataka assembly polls, union minister and Karnataka election-in-charge Prakash Javadekar said Congress was earlier "pseudo secular" but is now "pseudo Hindu."

"They are changing brands. They were earlier pseudo secularists, now they represent pseudo Hinduism. People understand what is an election gimmick and what is true devotion," the minister said.

He claimed that Gandhi did not go to temples in Delhi when he was elected Congress president, which was the biggest day in his life.

"He goes to temples in Gujarat and Karnataka because there is election. So it is a vote gimmick. But people are not fools. Robust common sense works and people understand who is a real devotee and who is an election devotee."

He took a dig at the ruling Congress in Karnataka, saying that on the one hand its leaders are visiting temples and on the other, brought out a circular from taking and appropriating all temples, mutts, under the endowment department.

The circular was later withdrawn hurriedly under public pressure, he pointed out.

Welcoming Gandhi to Karnataka on behalf of his party, the union minister said his arrival ensures BJP's victory.

"Congress president Rahul Gandhi is in Karnataka. We welcome him because wherever he goes, the BJP wins. This is the track record. It has been seen in Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Assam, Maharashtra, Haryana, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir and recently, Gujarat."

Alleging deterioration in the law and order in Karnataka, he said 25 pro-Hindu activists and murder of two journalists give a clear picture of 'lawlessness' in the state.Mehbooba Mufti govt has perhaps read the writing on the wall; under the prevailing tensions, it will be suicidal to hold any election process in Kashmir.

The Mehbooba Mufti-led coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir is maintaining a stoic silence on the fate of the upcoming Panchayat elections, which are less than a week away. But silence sometimes speaks louder than words. The government has perhaps read the writing on the wall; under the prevailing tensions, it will be suicidal to hold any election process that may hurt the state, politically as well as economically.

If the concerns of Jammu and Kashmir's mainstream political parties about holding the electoral exercise is any indicator, the outcome of the next week's cabinet meeting, which is deciding the fate of the elections scheduled to be held on 15 February, has been decided already. The National Conference, the principal Opposition party in Kashmir, Congress and even the chief minister's own Peoples Democratic Party have sought deferment of elections.

Only the Bhartiya Janata Party, the coalition partner of the PDP, and the one man party of Ghulam Hassan Mir, who was expelled from the PDP, urged Mehbooba during last Sunday's all-party meeting to go ahead with elections on the already announced dates. Mir argues that the security situation is not a deciding factor in determining the turnout in Jammu and Kashmir on any election day.

"There was a massive turnout in the previous Panchayat elections which were held against the backdrop of massive and violent protests of 2010. The government can't allow itself to be hijacked by concerns which don't exist in first place. We will be losing another Rs 1500 crore to Rs 2000 crore if the election is delayed," Mir, who was the agriculture minister in Omar Abdullah's government, told Firstpost.

But politics has always prevailed over economic discourses. While it is true that the situation had improved significantly towards the end of 2017, a fresh spree of killings in the first two months of 2018 has once again disturbed the fragile calm in Kashmir. More than 57 persons have been already killed in counterinsurgency operations and cross-border violence, and the year has only begun. This includes five civilians shot dead by security forces during encounters with militants.

Also, the joint Hurriyat Conference comprising of Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik have asked people to stay away from the "meaningless exercise" as participating in the election is tantamount to "betraying the sacrifices of our martyrs". To ensure that the boycott appeal is adhered to, the Hizbul Mujahideen's operational commander, Riyaz Naikoo, has threatened to pour acid into the eyes of those who participate in the election process.

In such a vitiated atmosphere, it will be a tough choice for the government to make when the cabinet meets next week. But the ground indicators are not promising either. Pro-freedom and anti-India protests are a common occurrence during the cordon and search operations under 'Operation All-Out' in south Kashmir, parts of which still remain inaccessible for mainstream political parties due to security reasons.

"The government never consulted the Opposition parties before announcing the election dates last year. The chief minister was forced to make the announcement under pressure from Raj Bhawan and New Delhi. Now that the cat is already out of the bag, the blame will squarely fall on this government if, God forbid, the situation turns bad," Ali Mohammed Sagar, senior NC leader who attended the all-party meeting convened in Jammu, told Firstpost.

The factors behind the widespread violence during the Srinagar bypoll for a Lok Sabha seat on 9 April last year, which were held against the backdrop of the 2016 unrest, need to be assessed thoroughly before the fate of the 15 February elections is sealed. The government has to make a choice between the devil and the deep sea.

Delaying the process will invite criticism from the Opposition members, who will mock the coalition government as well as the Centre for failing to restore normalcy in the volatile Valley. Holding the election on time may implode the situation. Any decision in haste by this government, which is desperate to showcase 'normalcy' returning to the state, may throw Kashmir into another bout of protests and clashes, which is the last thing people want.

"Security forces are on a militant hunting spree and ordinary people are becoming victims of these operations. Not a day passes when you don't get to read about civilian deaths and injuries. Only yesterday, a boy was shot with pellets by the army in Shopian during a search operation. Borders have been set on fire. With the tourism season coming up, it will be in the interest of everyone to defer the election till the situation improves," Professor Noor A Baba, dean of social sciences at the Central University of Kashmir, said.BJP leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy on voiced confidence that his party will form the next government on its own in Meghalaya

Shillong: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy on Sunday voiced confidence that his party will form the next government on its own in Meghalaya after the 27 February Assembly elections.

"We are fighting the elections on our own, and the party workers are hard to ensure that the party forms the next government on our own," Rudy told journalists after attending an internal party meeting in Shillong.

Moreover, the former Union Minister also noted that BJP will not forge a pre-poll or post-poll alliance with any party.

Terming BJP President Amit Shah 'magic', Rudy said: "In whichever state he (Amit Shah) makes inroads, he conquers it."

The BJP, which failed to win a single seat in the 2013 Assembly elections, has fielded its candidates in 47 seats. These include four former legislators of the ruling Congress-led Meghalaya United Alliance government.

Criticising the Mukul Sangma-led government, Rudy said: "Except the roads constructed by National Highway Authority of India, there isn't much of which Meghalaya should feel proud about its government."

He also accused the ruling Congress government of failing to utilise central funds sanctioned by the Centre.Altogether 281 companies of central force will be deployed in Nagaland to ensure free and fair Assembly polls in the state on 27 February

Kohima: Altogether 281 companies of central force will be deployed in Nagaland to ensure free and fair Assembly polls in the state on 27 February, the state chief electoral office said.

Out of the 281 companies of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), 77 companies have already arrived and have been deployed throughout the state, the media cell of the Chief Electoral Officer Abhijit Sinha said on Sunday evening.

The CAPF personnel are also being deployed at police check posts to stop movement of cash, smuggling of arms, liquor and illegal items.

The remaining 204 companies of CAPF will come to the state after completion of the polls in Tripura on 18 February, the Media Cell said.The BJP-NDPP coalition will not come in the way of 'smooth implementation' of the proposed Naga accord if voted to power in Nagaland, Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said

New Delhi: The BJP-NDPP coalition will not come in the way of "smooth implementation" of the proposed Naga accord, if voted to power in Nagaland, Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said on Monday.

He, however, was non-committal when asked if it meant that the new government would recommend the dissolution of the Nagaland Assembly to pave the way for implementation of the accord, if necessary.

"Our party and the government, if elected, will not come in the way of the smooth implementation of the Naga accord as and when it is signed. Rather we will cooperate," he told PTI in New Delhi.

Rijiju is the BJP's election in-charge for Nagaland.

He said, in fact, no political party will come in the way of implementation of the final peace deal with the Naga insurgent group NSCN(IM), and this has been conveyed to all concerned in Nagaland.

When asked whether his comments meant a BJP-NDPP government, if formed after the 27 February polls, will recommend dissolution of the new Assembly and recommend fresh election, if necessary, Rijiju said it was not possible for him to comment on the issue.

He said it was a subject to be discussed and decided by the MLAs.

The minister said the central government was committed to an honourable solution to the seven-decade-old insurgency in the northeastern state, which is acceptable to all.

Under the aegis of the Core Committee of the Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations (CCNTHCO), several political parties in Nagaland had initially decided not to contest Assembly elections and demanded their deferment till the time the issue was resolved.

Civil society groups in Nagaland had also launched a campaign "solution before election".

Not a single nomination was filed till the penultimate day of filing of papers on 6 February when the first batch of 22 nominations was submitted after parties softened their stand.

The central government has already rejected one of the key demands of the NSCN(IM)  the integration of Naga-inhabited areas of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Manipur  into Nagaland, a very sensitive issue for the three northeastern states. BJP is in power in the three states, which were opposed to the demand.

Manipur had seen massive protests in 2001 after the then NDA government signed a ceasefire agreement with the NSCN-IM "without territorial limits". After the protests, the central government was forced to decide that the ceasefire will be applicable only in Nagaland.

Last month, after the publication of a reported draft pact allegedly prepared by an RSS leader, suggesting separate authorities to execute development schemes in seven Naga inhabited districts of Manipur, two of Arunachal Pradesh, and one in Assam, violent protests were witnessed in Assam's Dima Hasao, leading to the death of two youths.

Expectations of lasting peace had soared in Nagaland, hit by insurgency for several decades, after the Centre and the NSCN-IM signed a framework agreement in 2015.

The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) has been engaged in peace talks with the Centre's interlocutors since 1997, when it first announced a ceasefire agreement.

During a visit to Nagaland in November 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind had said the state was at the threshold of making history as a final agreement on the Naga political issue would soon be arrived at and lasting peace achieved.Aiming at stopping the BJP and its alliance partner from 'compromising the way of life of the people of Nagaland', the Congress has said it would support secular party candidates

Kohima: Aiming at stopping the BJP and its alliance partner from "compromising the way of life of the people of Nagaland", the Congress has said it would support secular party candidates in seats where it is not contesting in the Assembly election.

Congress is contesting in 19 seats in the 27 February election for the 60-member Assembly. Twenty of its candidates had filed nomination but one of them withdrew candidature.

"The decision is aimed at stopping the BJP and its alliance partner from compromising the rights of our people and our way of life," the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) said in a statement.

The Congress has directed its rank and file to back secular party candidates to save the people from sinking in the "Hindutva quicksand," the Congress statement said.

The BJP has formed an alliance with the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) led by three times former chief minister and sitting MP, Neiphiu Rio. The BJP and the NDPP would contest in 20 and 40 seats respectively.

The Congress welcomed secular minded parties and leaders to form a broad consensus to provide a secular and stable government and to stop the Hindutva forces in the state.

The party also expressed shocked at formation of the alliance between the BJP and the NDPP.

"It is also shocking that the NDPP decided to share Nagaland Assembly seats with the BJP by providing them 20 seats ignoring the cry and fear of the people," it said adding that the NPCC has been campaigning about "the danger of Hindutva for over two and a half years".

The NDPP leaders are all fully aware of how minorities and minority religions are persecuted and are suffering under the BJP rule, the statement said.Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar claimed that he knew 'from the very beginning' that his alliance with Lalu Prasad's RJD 'would not last for more than a year-and-a-half', but he did his best to carry on in the Grand Alliance, which ultimately disintegrated last year

Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday claimed that he knew "from the very beginning" that his alliance with Lalu Prasad Yadav's RJD "would not last for more than a year-and-a-half", but he did his best to carry on in the Grand Alliance, which ultimately disintegrated last year.

The Grand Alliance ministry, headed by Kumar, collapsed in July last year after the chief minister resigned over graft charge against his then deputy, Tejashwi Yadav.

Subsequently, Kumar joined hands with the BJP to form another coalition government in Bihar.

"The very day the Mahagathbandhan government was installed, I had said to those close to me that this was not going to last for more than a year-and-a-half. I knew it from the very beginning. I still managed to carry on for 20 months," the JD(U) chief told reporters in Patna on the sidelines of his weekly "Lok Samvad" (public interaction) programme.

He said this while reacting to the allegations of "betrayal of mandate", levelled against him by the RJD and the Congress  the two other constituents of the erstwhile "Mahagathbandhan".

The Grand Alliance was formed shortly after the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when Kumar and Prasad decided to bury the hatchet.

Both the JD(U) and the RJD had suffered a severe drubbing in the Parliamentary election, which saw the BJP putting up its best-ever electoral performance, riding on a strong wave in favour of Narendra Modi.

However, Kumar's statement drew flak from former JD(U) president Sharad Yadav, who had raised a banner of revolt when the Bihar chief minister joined hands with the BJP.

"If he (Kumar) knew that the alliance was not going to last, why did he agree to such a tie-up in the first place. It is an illogical thing to say. He is suffering from pangs of guilt for his volte-face and trying to justify his actions by such utterances," Yadav told a TV news channel in Delhi.

Yadav was disqualified from the Rajya Sabha a couple of months ago, following an application by the JD(U), which had held that the former party president's presence at rallies and meetings organised by the RJD-Congress combine were tantamount to his having "voluntarily renounced" the membership of the party.

Reacting to Kumar's statement, Tejashwi Yadav tweeted, saying, "This is what I have been saying since the beginning that Tejashwi was just an excuse. Paltu chacha (turncoat uncle) had vicious plans beforehand."

                       67            28              ,      https://t.co/KJak384AyG  Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) February 12, 2018

"The respected 67-year-old should be ashamed that he made a 28-year-old an excuse for his shenanigans. Uncle, you could have parted ways like a man," Yadav, who is the younger son of Lalu Prasad, said.Shiv Sena on Monday dared the BJP-led Goa government to crack down on foreigners staying in the coastal state, instead of lashing out at domestic tourists.

Mumbai: The Shiv Sena on Monday dared the BJP-led Goa government to crack down on foreigners staying in the coastal state, instead of lashing out at domestic tourists, a section of whom was dubbed as the "scum of the earth" by a minister.

Claiming that terrorism jeopardised job avenues in the tourism industry of Jammu and Kashmir, the Sena said Goa minister Vijai Sardesai's remarks against the people of one region was "irresponsible".

Last week, Goa's agriculture minister Sardesai had described a section of domestic tourists as the "scum of the earth" and urged the state to look for "qualitative and not quantitative" improvement in tourists.

Later, his cabinet colleague Manohar Ajgaonkar threatened to "chase away" visitors who don't take care of "Goan culture and Goanness".

Taking a dim view of it, the Sena said, in an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', a minister of the BJP-led Goa government has blamed North Indians for turning Goa into a "gutter".

But the state runs on tourism and it fails to keep a check on the law and order situation, the Sena said.

"There are some areas in Goa where the local police do not dare to go, as they are dominated by Russians and Nigerians... We dare the Goa administration to go to those villages and take control of them," it said.

In a jibe at Sardesai, it said though Goa had gone through an oppressive rule of the Portuguese for years, there are some ministers who prefer that regime as compared to the North Indians visiting the state.

"What sort of nationalism is this?" the Sena asked. Referring to Jammu and Kashmir, it said jobs of taxi and auto-rickshaw operators and those running 'shikaras' in Dal lake, hotels and restaurants are affected due to terrorist activities.

In this backdrop, Sardesai's statement against people of one region is "irresponsible," the Sena said. It is the responsibility of the Goans to reject such statements of their ministers, it added.Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday appealed to the voters of Tripura to oust the Marxist government in the 18 February Assembly polls.

Jubarajnagar (Tripura): Accusing the CPM-led Left Front government in Tripura of depriving the people of "basic amenities", Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday appealed to the voters of the state to oust the Marxist government in the 18 February Assembly polls.

He also slammed the Left Front government for its "poor governance" and alleged that the common people of the state, who were not associated with the ruling party, were being deprived of the benefits of the Prime Minister Awas Yojana.

"The people of Tripura are being deprived of the basic amenities. The communist government here does not provide the poor people with any opportunity to be self-reliant. Why should the people keep them for such a long period in power? The Marxists must be ousted," the BJP leader told an election rally in North Tripura district.

Adityanath also led a 10-km roadshow in Dharmanagar town, the headquarters of North Tripura district.

The roadshow ended at the Gorakshanath temple at Padmapukur, where the Uttar Pradesh chief minister performed a "puja".

"Governance in the state is very bad and the common people do not get the benefits of the Prime Minister Awas Yojana, unless they are party members," Adityanath said.

The BJP is making a serious bid to remove the Left Front government in Tripura, which has been in power for the last 25 years.

The saffron party is contesting the 18 February polls in alliance with the Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT).

The results of the polls will be declared on 3 March, along with the results of the Meghalaya and Nagaland Assembly elections.

Adityanath alleged that even "a first-class employee in Tripura does not get the salary of a fourth-class employee in the other states because the recommendations of the central pay commission have not been implemented in the state".

Quoting from the BJP's poll manifesto for Tripura, he promised that the awards of the 7th Central Pay Commission would be implemented in the north-eastern state after the BJP came to power.

"Our mantra is development and good governance," the Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, adding that wherever the BJP was in power, the people were enjoying the fruits of development and good governance.

Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's motto of "Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas" and "Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat", he said the central government had introduced various schemes such as Startup India, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana etc. for the welfare of the people.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 12)  The government on Monday signed the administrative order to completely ban the deployment of all workers to Kuwait, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III announced Monday.

"In pursuit of national interest, a total ban on deployment of all OFWs to Kuwait pursuant to the directive of the President is hereby enforced. Order takes effect immediately," he said in a media briefing.

He clarified not all workers will be forced to go home.

"Yun lang gustong umuwi, at saka yung dapat umuwi. Halimbawa wala naman trabaho doon. Yun ang tutulungan umuwi. Pero yung mga andun na maganda ang trabaho, maganda ang treatment sa kanila ng employer nila they can stay for as long as they want," the Labor Secretary said.

The department is still studying whether the order will cover returning OFWs who currently have contracts in Kuwait.

The order comes after authorities discovered the body of a Filipina inside the freezer of her employers in Kuwait, and amid the investigation on seven Filipino household workers killed in Kuwait.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the Philippine government will hold Kuwait responsible for the horrendous crimes under state responsibility.

Over 400 OFWs were brought back home on Monday morning as part of the government's mass repatriation program.

He added 150 more will arrive on Tuesday and 250 more will go back to the Philippines on Wednesday.

Aside from the administrative order against OFWs' deployment to Kuwait, DOLE also created a task force that will visit Filipino workers in Middle Eastern countries and assess their living conditions. Another task force will hold job fairs in these countries to recruit workers. The department also created a task force that will focus on the repatriation of OFWs from Kuwait.

Philippine Ambassador to Kuwait Renato Pedro Villa estimates around 10,000 OFWs are overstaying in the country. Around 8,000 or 80 percent of them are domestic workers, and majority of whom have claimed abuse from employers.tech2 News Staff

China is no stranger to surveillance of its citizens. Among the latest measures, is the use of facial-recognition supporting sunglasses for the police.

According to a report in the BBC, sunglasses with built-in facial recognition features are currently being tested at train stations in the Zhengzhou city. They will be used by the police to scan travellers during the upcoming Lunar New Year migration. This period sees a lot of people travelling across China. The sunglasses will assist the police with identifying criminals on the run.

The police have been successful in compromising around seven suspects who were wanted in major cases ranging from hit-and-run to human trafficking. This is in addition to 26 individuals who were travelling under false identities.

This is an additional weapon that the Chinese state has deployed to assist with law enforcement.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the sunglasses are being made by Beijing-based LLVision Technology Co who worked with the local police to develop this technology according to their needs. LLVision's CEO Wu Fei says that the sunglasses which are powered by artificial intelligence help police get instant and accurate feedback on facial data.

The tech allows the police to click photographs of the suspicious individuals which are then compared with an internal database. The sunglasses are connected to a connected mobile unit which is priced at CNY 3,999. According to LLVision, they can recognise individuals from a pre-loaded database of 10,000 suspects in around 100 milliseconds. Accuracy levels may be affected by environmental noise.

While it may help with surveillance, it also puts a big question mark on the privacy of regular people. Amnesty International's China researcher William Nee told WSJ that these sunglasses with facial-recognition could make China's surveillance state all the more ubiquitous.

According to BBC, around 170 million CCTV cameras are already in place and 400 million new ones are expected to be installed in the next three years.US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis says it's too early to tell if any of the overtures between North and South Korea during the Olympic Games are creating a chance for peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Rome: US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis says it's too early to tell if any of the overtures between North and South Korea during the Olympic Games are creating a chance for peace on the Korean Peninsula.

But he rejected any suggestion Sunday that even a temporary warming of relations between the North and South could drive a wedge between Seoul and Washington.

His remarks came after North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un's sister, who is attending the Olympics, invited South Korea's president, Moon Jae-in, to visit Pyongyang.

Moon has not yet accepted the invitation from Kim Yo Jong, although he has said before he'd be willing to visit if it would help end the North's pursuit of nuclear weapons and its decades of hostility and threats against the South.

Mattis said it's unclear "if using the Olympics in a way to reduce tension if that's going to have any traction once the Olympics are over. We can't say right now."

Speaking to reporters traveling with him on a week-long trip to Europe, Mattis said the North's decision to hold a recent military parade that highlighted its ballistic missiles confuses any messages of thawing tensions on the peninsula.

"I don't know if it's a sign," Mattis said. "That's a very strange time if, in fact, he's trying to show a warming to the country that he has attacked repeatedly as an American puppet."

He said that when he met South Korea's defense minister in January, it was made clear "there is no wedge that can be driven between us by North Korea."

Mattis is scheduled to meet in Rome with about a dozen defense ministers who are involved in the coalition fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria. He will then go to a NATO meeting in Brussels and a security conference in Munich.Donald Trump will unveil his second budget on Monday - seeking to make good on his promise to bolster military spending and requesting funds for infrastructure, construction of a wall along the border with Mexico and opioid treatment programs.

Washington: President Donald Trump will unveil his second budget on Monday - seeking to make good on his promise to bolster military spending and requesting funds for infrastructure, construction of a wall along the border with Mexico and opioid treatment programs.

The budget plan, which is viewed largely as suggestions by Congress, which has the constitutional authority to decide spending levels, will likely draw criticism from conservatives who worry that Republicans are embracing deficit spending.

The proposal will include $200 billion for infrastructure spending and more than $23 billion for border security and immigration enforcement, Mick Mulvaney, who heads the administrations budget office, said in a statement on Sunday night.

It will also provide "for a robust and rebuilt national defense," he said.

But the statement added that the proposal would recommend cuts that would lower the deficit by $3 trillion over 10 years.

"The budget does bend the trajectory down," Mulvaney told the "Fox News Sunday" program earlier on Sunday. "It does move us back towards balance. It does get us away from trillion-dollar deficits."

The budget request will be delivered to Congress only days after Trump signed off on a bipartisan spending agreement hammered out by lawmakers that will increase domestic spending by $300 billion over two years - including $165 billion in defense spending and $131 billion in non-military domestic spending.

The White House plans to amend its request to take into account the higher spending levels in the agreement that passed on Friday, a senior official in the Office of Management and Budget said.

Mulvaney said on Sunday all that money did not need to be spent.

"These are spending caps," Mulvaney said. "They are not spending floors. You dont have to spend all that."

The spending deal will add to the annual budget deficit, which will now exceed $1 trillion in 2019, said the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget watchdog group.

Trump's previous budget was criticised for recommending cuts to spending to achieve deficit reduction that ultimately even members of his own Republican Party thought were untenable.

"I hope the budget that we see is workable and recognises the landscape were in," said Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican member of the Appropriations Committee. "A lot of times, what you have is a budget that even the Cabinet secretaries can't defend."

Deficit debate

"The president's budget is always a list of pretty good suggestions. It's not 'the' budget," said Senate budget chairman Mike Enzi.

This year's budget is likely to stoke debates about deficits that began when Congress passed a tax overhaul in December. The tax cuts in the legislation contained no corresponding reductions in spending and instead relied on arguments that the lower rates would stoke economic growth.

Trump's budget will include a number of economic forecasts and is expected to rely on estimates that the economy will keep growing at a rapid pace for the foreseeable future.

Such forecasts could obscure the level of deficit spending, said Robert Greenstein, president of the progressive Center for Budget Policy and Priorities.

"It'll essentially be another budget gimmick, alongside rosy economic assumptions, to make the deficit smaller than it will actually be," Greenstein said.

The budget proposal will include two key elements - $18 billion over two years for Trumps long-promised border wall and $200 billion in federal funds to spur $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investments over the next 10 years with state, local and private partners, Mulvaneys statement said.

Trump promised during the 2016 campaign that Mexico would pay for the border wall, which the Mexican government has insisted it will not do.

Democrats oppose the wall, which Trump has said is aimed at keeping out illegal immigrants and drug smugglers.

The budget will also seek some $13 billion in new funding over the next two years to combat the opioid epidemic.

In addition, it will request $85.5 billion for veterans' health, the administration said.In Iraq's Anbar province, residents struggling to rebuild after years of Islamic State rule are adamant: there will be no return for families of jihadists

Ramadi: In Iraq's Sunni-dominated Anbar province, residents struggling to rebuild after years of Islamic State group rule are adamant: there will be no return for the families of jihadists.

Omar Shihan al-Alwani, who fought against the group, warned that revenge awaits the relatives of Islamic State fighters who try to come back.

"Anbar is a tribal society. If someone's brother or father is killed, he takes blood revenge by killing someone from the murderer's tribe," Alwani said.

The bearded 35-year-old wore a red-chequered headscarf as he sat in his traditional reception room, two months since Iraq declared victory over Islamic State.

"We do not want Islamic State fighters to come back and start a spiral of revenge," he said.

"We're totally against that. If they come back then blood will flow and neither tribes nor military operations will be able to stop it."

That sentiment is a far cry from the support the jihadists once enjoyed in the western desert region.

The radical group's predecessor emerged from Iraq's Sunni heartland in 2006 and was welcomed by many Anbaris, who saw it as offering protection against Shiite-dominated authorities in Baghdad.

The jihadists were kicked out by pro-government forces, but five years later, in late 2013, tribal fighters allied with the group revolted against Baghdad.

The jihadists seized the chance to take over large areas of territory.

But many tribes turned against Islamic State, especially as its brutality became apparent.

The group imposed a hardline interpretation of Islam, sending religious "police" to flog people in public and executing members of tribes who refused to pledge allegiance.

'Intruders'

Today residents, still counting the cost of Islamic State rule in blood and destruction, insist they do not want to repeat the errors of the past.

"They are outcasts and society rejects them," said Khamis al-Dahal, 60, as he got his hair cut at a barbershop.

"The government is not going to force us to accept back people who killed men, women and children in Anbar."

Some take a more moderate line -- but are still very wary.

"We are not against them returning but the timing is bad and would risk provoking unrest and a return to bloodshed in the streets," said former tribal fighter Omar Ibrahim.

"They should be in a camp under the supervision of the Iraqi government and they should receive daily instruction on how to live together and to combat extremist ideologies."

Some are already living in camps.

Currently around 380 families of jihadists, women and children, are detained in two Anbar camps where conditions are harsh.

Late last year US advocacy group Refugees International reported that women and girls believed to be linked to Islamic State jihadists had been sexually abused by camp guards.

Those who do leave often have nowhere to go.

In the city of Ramadi, residents said houses belonging to the families of Islamic State jihadists have been destroyed -- reprisal for a similar tactic the jihadists used against their enemies.

No one was willing to say who was responsible.

The city is still heavily scarred by fighting and airstrikes by a US-led coalition during a battle that saw it recaptured by government troops in early 2016.

Erfan Ali, Iraq representative for the UN Human Settlements Programme, said that over 8,000 homes are destroyed or badly damaged, as are some 1,200 in the city of Fallujah.

While the jihadists' self-declared cross-border "caliphate" lies in tatters, many still fear Iraq's weak central government will not be able to prevent their return indefinitely.

Such is the fear that some residents have still not dared remove signs of the group's presence.

The graffiti remains daubed across the walls of their houses: "Property of the Islamic State".A Malaysian newspaper has reportedly published a list of characteristics to identify potential gay and lesbian people.

A Malaysian newspaper has reportedly published a list of characteristics to identify if people may be gay or lesbian. The article was published in Sinar Harian, a leading Malay language daily newspaper.

According to a report in The Guardian, the article featured points of supposedly distinctive qualities to identify lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people. The article in Sinar Harian stated that gay men were easy to identify because of their love of beards, going to the gym  not for exercise but to check out other men  and branded clothing. Meanwhile, The Guardian report, quoting the piece, said that the stand-out attributes for lesbians were that they tend to hug each other, hold hands and belittle men.

Homosexuality is considered a taboo in Malaysia. Gay sex is criminalised and punishable by up to 20 years in prison, caning or a fine. In 2012, according to Reuters, authorities issued guidelines and held seminars aimed at helping teachers and parents spot signs of homosexuality in children.

According to those guidelines, signs of homosexuality in boys include preferences for tight, V-neck shirts and large handbags, while girls with lesbian tendencies like to hang out and sleep in the company of women.

Activists said that intolerance of LGBT people has spiked in recent years in Malaysia, according to the Reuters report.

The Sinar Harian article drew a sharp response from activists in the country. According to DNA, Arwind Kumar, a social media star in the country, hit out at the piece saying, "There are many more important issues in this country which need to be addressed."

The DNA report also said that there have been a series of deaths of men and women suspected to be gay or transgender in Malaysia. A 27-year-old transgender woman, Sameera Krishnan, was brutally murdered in Kuantan city, Malaysia in February last year.

Boris Dittrich wrote for Human Rights Watch that Malaysia is one of very few countries in the world that prosecutes individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex assigned to them at birth, simply for being who they are.

Malaysian health authorities have also held a contest on how to "prevent" homosexuality and transgenderism. The ministry described gender identity disorder, also known as gender dysphoria, and cited examples of people who are gay, lesbian, transsexual and tomboys.Nearly ~1.5 million Indians on Green Card (GC) waitlists will be treated to edge of the seat jabbing on immigration negotiation in the US Congress starting this week as Trumps favourite Senator Tom Cotton from Arkansas gets another shot at the spotlight for what is likely to be a historic push to change the fundamental moorings of Americas immigration policy.

Get your popcorn.

Nearly ~1.5 million Indians on Green Card (GC) waitlists will be treated to edge of the seat jabbing on immigration negotiation in the US Congress starting this week as Trumps favourite Senator Tom Cotton from Arkansas gets another shot at the spotlight for what is likely to be a historic push to change the fundamental moorings of Americas immigration policy.

The Senate is set to start debate Monday evening in a bid to find a fix for a longlist of immigration policy priorities headlined by DACA - an Obama era concession for hundreds of thousands of children of undocumented immigrants. Anything that can get 60 votes will pass and as at 11 a.m EST, the kick-off proposal is being bulked up in a bid to make it as palatable as possible to critics on the uncompromising left.

Follow our comprehensive coverage of H1B on Planet Trump

Why this matters for Indians is this: The Secure and Succeed Act, sponsored by Senators Cotton, Grassley, Cornyn, Tillis, Perdue, Lankford, and Ernst speaks directly to the most pressing concern for Indians who wait an average of 15 years for a decision on their Green Card application - the proposal generously grandfathers all pending family-based visa applications in order to reward those who chose to follow the law and immigrate legally. The allotment for the Diversity Visa lottery will be reallocated to reduce this backlog and the employment-based visa backlog, claims Cotton.

The words reallocation and "grandfathering" are crucial here for those on employment based immigration waitlists. The average wait time for Indians on GC waitlists is 15 years +.

A grandfather clause is a provision in which an old rule continues to apply to some existing situations while a new rule will apply to all future cases. Those exempt from the new rule are said to have been grandfathered in. What will be the reallocation metrics after all the grandfathering is factored in?

For the Indian on GC waitlist, anything that pulls more visas into the employment based immigration category is good news. If they can remove per-country caps on GC waitlist, woh hamaare liye kaafi hai (thats enough for us, right now), is the more simplistic construct of the problem definition in the H1B community anxious to keep its place on the immigration leaderboard with the legal label as the news cycle is set to be overwhelmed by cacophony over illegal and undocumented workers.

Harshit Chatur from Houston, Texas, explains the specifics of the four pronged ask from the H1B camp: End country caps, recapture wasted Green Cards, exempt dependents from any numerical limits in EB* pool, increase proportion of EB immigrant visas in overall green cards.

Sensing the sway in the current administration geared towards a landmark shift away from family based migration, hundreds of Indian workers on H1B visas travelled from 30 states to Washington DC last week and fanned out to offices of more than 300 Senators and representatives to push for lifting the per-country caps on legal immigration.

In the immigration free-for-all that will be unleashed today, Cotton's is just one of the bills in focus for the Indian expats. There are several others, listed here. Which of these make inroads will depend on multiple factors - each of the main sponsors' stakes in the upcoming midterms, are they retiring or not, do they have enough face time with the right hand men in the administration to get some clauses in their bills latched on to big ticket legislation and so on. Also, the fine print on "reallocation", if that happens, will matter immensely.

Led by Skilled Immigrants In America, the H1B cohort covered key offices including those of immigration focused and high powered Senators Chuck Grassley, Tom Cotton, David Perdue, Lankard, Tillis, Cory Booker, Menendez, Chuck Schumer, Cornyn, Cruz, Crapo, Lindsey Graham, Tammy Baldwin and Kamala Harris. Between in person meetings with 20 Senators and legislative assistants of 300 + others, the H1B group is hoping to seed the basic distinction between their legal, high skilled status and that of issues like DACA where people jumped the fence or came on the back of trucks with no papers or due diligence at the border.

The H1B visa, over its 27 year existence, has become the most strictly regulated work visa in the US visa ecosystem and yet because of the political climate thats been in the making since the crash of 2008, has become something of a cause celebre for those seeking to explain away the woes of jobless Americans. Also, bad apples among H1B shops have sparked an all out reckoning of the entire visa category leading to delays, multiple layers of scrutiny and more pain points than ever before.

This immigration overhaul movie will play for many weeks. While the Trump-led merit-based immigration argument wont work for all US hopefuls, it might for a small sliver of those who are inching closer to their Green Cards. Success for Trumpism will send American immigration policy back to that of the 1920s but before that, the GC queue is hoping it delivers a shiny bling. For others, this Cyrus Mehta interview outlines the 20 red flags in the Raise Act which is the fountainhead of Trump's "merit based" plan.

The showdown begins today.

Related: The evolving rights of deportable immigrants, by Cyrus Mehta

*EB = employment based.While China has been pouring millions into the Maldives economy, India's contribution has been too little and too slow

The growing political crisis in the Maldives has raised alarm bells across India with opinion makers pointing that the Maldives knowingly ignored India and chose to cuddle with Pakistan and China, as President Abdulla Yameen announced a 15-day emergency in the country and that it is yet another proof of China waging a proxy war against India.

Though the Maldives government has refuted the charges, opinion makers in India believe the archipelago nation's anti-India message is loud and clear. And that should worry India.

Among the several reasons thrown open to support 'China is out to get India' was the Maldives growing financial dependence on China vis-a-vis its mounting debt  two-third of its debt is Chinese held  the Maldives participation in the Xi Jinping's One Belt One Road Initiative, infrastructural projects that China is developing in the island nation, and most notably the Free Trade Agreement between the two nations, which gives Chinese goods 24x7x365 open season in the island nation.

They even looked at India's past experiences with China, and in retrospect, Maldives reluctant-to-go President Abdulla Yameen's pro-China stand since he came to power, to validate these fears.

Exiled former Maldives president Ahmed Nasheed even went on to ask for India's military intervention. He also alleged that the "Chinese infrastructural investments are more of a land grab and that Chinese interests had leased at least 16 islets among the 1,192 scattered coral islands and were building ports and other infrastructure there". According to some reports, "China is already developing artificial islands in the Maldives, much like in the South China Sea."

Though China has denied these allegations, its involvement in the Maldives has put India in a tight spot.

Should it intervene and resolve the crisis using force, like it did in 1988, and risk being involved in a military exercise that could possibly escalate with Chinese forces joining in, or play a bystander and let China have its way in the Indian Ocean Region.

Firstpost takes a deeper look at the archipelagic state's economy to understand just what might be driving its economic decisions and growing affection for China. And the results are indeed startling and go beyond the Maldives becoming just a pawn in the India-China rivalry.

The recent infrastructural investments aren't the only thing binding the Maldives and China together. For starters, China provides the maximum number of tourists from a single country to Maldives tourism sector.

However, according to International Monetary Fund December 2017 report, the Maldives tourism sector has been seeing moderate returns lately and occupancy rate has been falling. Yameen had recently said that he sees the Chinese investments as means to achieve to help the Maldives overcome its reliance on tourism. Perhaps, the Maldives participation in OBOR is linked to that.

However, if India sees it as a reason to worry, its reaction appears to be little delayed. According to The Hindu, the FTA negotiations between China and the Maldives took about three years and were completed in September 2017. The Maldives crisis, if anything, also shows that India was caught napping. Or, perhaps it was so busy fighting Pakistan, well, over everything, that it didn't see what was coming.

Besides, unlike China, which has been pouring millions into the Maldives through the Exim Bank of China, India's investments have been slow and too little. At present, the Maldives association with China is a way of looking out for its future, but for India, it's a security risk.The Islamic revolution saw the ouster of the Pahlavi Dynasty and its ruler Mohammed Reza Pahlavi. His ouster also ended the 2,500 years of continuous monarchy in the country.

Iran on Sunday marked the 39th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. In his annual address, President Hassan Rouhani called for a "year of unity" in the wake of anti-government protests last month. "I request that the 40th year of the revolution, the coming year, be the year of unity. I ask conservatives, reformists, moderates and all parties and all people to come and be together," AFP quoted Rouhani as saying in a speech before a huge crowd in Tehran.

Since the Islamic Revolution, Iran has experienced signficant change in its economic as well as geo-political fortunes. "In the last 39 years, we have progressed in many fields, but at the same time we have had shortcomings," Rouhani said on Sunday.

Rouhani's above statement requires a reader to know the genesis behind the revolution.

The Islamic revolution saw the ouster of the Pahlavi Dynasty and its ruler Mohammed Reza Pahlavi. His ouster also ended the 2,500 years of continuous monarchy in the country.

The revolution began on 7 January, 1978 when a State-owned newspaper published an article calling Ayatollah Khomeini as a "British agent" and a "mad Indian poet". This agitated the Islamic leader's ardent supporters who clashed with the police. In the seminary town of Qom, at least seventy supporters were killed as per the opposition.

As Shiite forces gained momentum, the opposition rallied behind the ayatollah, a scholar who was in exile in France after opposing the Shah's liberal reforms.

According to BBC, the ayatollah promised the economic and social reforms for the disadvantaged sections of the society. "The ayatollah prescribed a return to traditional religious values, which struck a chord with many Iranians," the BBC noted.

As the protests against the regime increased, the Shah and his queen consort left the country in January 1979. While Shah's trip was officially called "an extended vacation", he was never to return home.

On 1 February, 1979, the ayatollah returned from his exile in France and was welcomed by the revolutionaries. In a last ditch effort to save the monarchy, the Shah appointed a foreign-educated politician Shahpour Bakhtiyar as the prime minister.

But on 11 February, just five weeks into his tenure, he was forced to abandon his power as revolutionaries ran through Tehran declaring Iran an "Islamic Republic."

Immediately, the ayatollah appointed Mahdi Bazargan as the prime minister of a provisional government. Bazargan later conducted a referendum to seek people's approval for the new republic. On 31 March, 1979, 97 percent of the voters voted in favour of the Islamic Republic. Ayatollah was declared the "supreme leader" of the country, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was created to protect the Islamic system. In December of the same year, the country also got its new constitution.

Many experts were caught by surprise due to rapid pace with which the revolution took place, arguing that there were no usual signs of an imminent regime change.

With the US-led West strongly supporting Iran, few expected the Shah's regime to fall so quickly. But it did.

While things looked normal on the surface, there were historical reasons for the eventual overthrow of the Shah, who had bestowed upon himself the title of "the light of Aryans."

Given his penchant for westernisation and his perceived closeness to the United States, the Shah came to be considered an "American puppet," a BBC documentary, The Last Shah, noted.

In fact, it was the US which, with the help of the UK, propelled the Shah back to power by overthrowing the popularly-elected Mohammad Mosaddegh. This intervention created a poor impression of the West among secular as well as religious Iranians.

Shah's 1963 White Revolution, which attempted to modernise the country, angered the clerics, led by the ayatollah. Critics also pointed out that the benefits of the modernisation never reached the villages and the lower strata of the society.

Shah continued his crackdown on the Communists and Islamists, even as state profligacy and low standards of living remained a major cause for concern, Financial Times report said.

One of the biggest symbols of Iran's dysfunctional reforms came in 1971, when the Shah celebrated the 2,500th year of monarchy. Even as the country was going through a turmoil, the Shah decided to treat his Iranian guests to a five-course meal and the rarest of wines.

"Every party leaves a few hangovers. This one left a country reeling, never to recover. It crystallised the Opposition, led by the Ayatollah Khomeini. More than any other event, this party marked the break between the king of kings and the people of Iran he reigned over," BBC noted.

With inputs from AFPIran's president Hassan Rouhani will visit India this week for three days, local media reported on Monday.

Tehran: Iran's president Hassan Rouhani will visit India this week for three days, local media reported on Monday.

Rouhani is due to leave for India on Thursday to discuss "the latest regional and global developments", the semi-official ISNA news agency said.

He was invited by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year, ISNA said.

India and Iran have collaborated on key projects, most notably the Chabahar port in southeastern Iran that was inaugurated in December.

The port has been touted as a way for India to establish trade routes that bypass its rival Pakistan, but the project has seen multiple delays.

India has been a key purchaser of Iranian oil and gas, and maintained trade ties even as international sanctions were imposed on Iran over its nuclear programme between 2012 and 2016.

However, there have been tensions in the relationship, with the Indian media reporting frustrations over delays in awarding a contract to develop a major gas field known as Farzad B in the Gulf.

That led India to announce it was reducing its oil imports from Iran in protest in March 2017, leading Tehran to say it was restricting credit lines to India.

The two countries have nonetheless sought to move beyond the spat, and have continued to seek partnerships, with India signing a preliminary agreement last month to help expand Iran's rail network, including expanding rail links to Chabahar.An Iraqi interior ministry official said the Islamic State group's head Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is alive and being treated at a field hospital in Syria after being wounded in an air strike.

Baghdad: An Iraqi interior ministry official said the Islamic State group's head Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is alive and being treated at a field hospital in Syria after being wounded in an air strike. "We have irrefutable information and documents from sources within the terrorist organisation that al-Baghdadi is still alive and hiding" in Syria's northeastern Jazira region, said intelligence and counterterrorism department head Abu Ali al-Basri, quoted in the government daily As-Sabah.

Islamic State retains a significant presence in the desert plains of northeastern Syria's Hasakeh province despite having lost most of its cross-border "caliphate" which once also covered a

third of neighbouring Iraq. Basri said that Baghdadi was suffering from "injuries, diabetes and fractures to the body and legs that prevent him from walking without assistance".

The jihadist chief had been wounded in "air raids against Islamic State strongholds in Iraq". Iraqi authorities last week published a list of "internationally wanted terrorist leaders" headed by the

self-proclaimed Islamic State "caliph", born in 1971, under the name Ibrahim Awad Ibrahim Ali al-Badri al-Samarrai. Last June, Russia said it had probably killed Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in a late May air raid near Raqqa in Syria, but later said it was still trying to verify his fate.

In September, an American military chief said the jihadist chief was still alive and probably hiding in eastern Syria's Euphrates Valley.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 12)  Voting 19-0, the Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading a bill completely banning hazing as a requirement for admission into a fraternity, sorority, or organization.

Senate Bill No. 1662, which seeks to amend Republic Act No. 8049 or the Anti-Hazing Law, aims to strengthen the existing measure and regulate other forms of initiation rites.

It defined hazing as "any physical or psychological suffering, harm or injury inflicted on a recruit, member, neophyte, or applicant for admission or continuing membership into the fraternity, sorority or organization."

The existing law allows hazing as part of an initiation rite if there is a written notice addressed to the school a week before the event.

The House approved its version of the bill on January 22.

READ: House OKs new anti-hazing bill on third and final reading

Senator Panfilo Lacson, chair of the Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs, said the bill will cover not only hazing activities in schools, but also in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Philippine Military Academy, and Philippine National Police Academy.

Lacson added the bill requires fraternities, sororities, and organizations to submit an application to school authorities for the initiation rite, detailing the activity within seven days prior to the scheduled date.

School authorities should then monitor, record, and report that no hazing was conducted in the initiation rites.

The bill penalizes violators with up to life imprisonment or a fine of up to P3-million, if a hazing rite leads to death, rape, sodomy, or mutilation. Other penalties will be imposed for lesser violations.

The school would also be held liable and be imposed a P1 million fine if its officials failed to prevent hazing

Licenses of professionals involved in acts of hazing would also be revoked for up to three years, which may then be reinstated after affidavits certifying the individuals' good moral standing are submitted.

The filing of the bill follows the hazing death of University of Santo Tomas freshman law student Horacio "Atio" Castillo in the hands of Aegis Juris Fraternity members on September 2017.

READ: Timeline: The case of Horacio Castillo IIIBaghdadi's injuries were not considered life-threatening but they did mean he could not continue to command the daily operations of the group, the report said.

Washington: The elusive Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was wounded in an airstrike in May last year and had to relinquish control of the dreaded terror group for up to five months, according to a media report on Monday.

Citing several US officials, CNN reported that American intelligence agencies have assessed with a high degree of confidence that the world's most wanted man was near Raqqa, Syria in May when the missile struck.

Their assessment is based on reports from Islamic State detainees and refugees in Northern Syria that emerged months after the airstrike, the officials added.

Baghdadi's injuries were not considered life-threatening but they did mean he could not continue to command the daily operations of the group, the report said.

At the time, Islamic State was about to lose control of the Iraqi city of Mosul and its so-called capital Raqqa had been nearly encircled by US-backed forces.

It is unclear whether Baghdadi was hit in a targeted attack or if he was "collateral damage," the report said.

It is also unclear who fired the missile. US officials do not know the exact date of the strike so are unsure if a Coalition aircraft was involved, or whether Baghdadi's injury was the result of a Russian missile.

"There have been isolated strikes by Russians in Raqqa, but as there's no timeline to it, we don't know if it's ours," a US official said.

It is believed the airstrike occurred close to the date offered by the Russian military in June when they claimed to have killed or injured the Islamic State leader.

At the time, Russia's Defence Ministry said it was investigating reports Baghdadi had been killed in an airstrike on 28 May, on the outskirts of Raqqa, the group's primary stronghold, which US-backed forces took back in October.

Analysts warned at the time reports of Baghdadi's death should be treated with skepticism given the high number of previous false reports.

Baghdadi has made only one public appearance, in July 2014, in the al-Nuri Mosque in Mosul, which was retaken by Iraqi security forces in June last year.

Islamic State has since released various audio messages it claims to be of Baghdadi, most recently in September last year which appeared to contain reference to news events that showed it had been recorded since the Russian claims of his death.

The US-backed campaign is now focusing on the remaining pocket of territory controlled by Islamic State  the stretch of desert along the Syrian-Iraqi border, known as Jazeera.

Various reports have suggested to US intelligence that this is where Baghdadi would most likely be, although it is a vast and sparsely populated area, making his capture complex, the CNN report said.Asma Jahangir found herself opposing the other two military rules as well. She was there at the forefront of every difficult moment in Pakistan, opposing Zia and Musharraf alike, standing up for women and minorities, for peace with India and against military intervention in the democratic process.

It is difficult to imagine people demand a state funeral for a human rights activist. That tells you what a towering figure Asma Jahangir was. Asma died of a cardiac arrest in Lahore on Sunday. She was 66.

Her life has been the sort which fills history books with the label 'freedom fighter'. Pakistan has had military rule three times in its history, totaling 33 years. If Pakistan has seen frequent suspension of democracy and suppression of human rights, it has also seen brave dissenting activists such as Asma whose name will be counted among Pakistans famous revolutionary poets such as Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Habib Jalib.

Asma's father found himself in jail often for opposing the first military dictatorship, that of Ayub Khan. A young Asma even defended him in court. Her father had even opposed what Pakistan was doing in what is currently Bangladesh.

Asma found herself opposing the other two military rules as well. She was there at the forefront of every difficult moment in Pakistan, opposing Zia and Musharraf alike, standing up for women and minorities, for peace with India and against military intervention in the democratic process. She, along with other women activists, was jailed in 1983 for opposing proposed rape laws that gave weightage to a mans testimony over a woman's.

General Musharraf had her put in house arrest in 2007 after imposing Emergency. She sent an email from home saying the General-President had lost his marbles. She spoke against the Pakistani army in words so strong many others feel they cant do it without having to face the consequences. In 2012, she said her life was under threat from the Pakistani establishment but refused to leave the country.

Personal and institutional legacy

After the initial shock of her sudden death, the usual cliches came out. The void will be difficult to fill and so on.

But the truth is that Asma leaves behind a legacy of human rights activism in Pakistan. The legacy is both personal and institutional. Those standing up for human rights, freedom and democracy in Pakistan have often been inspired by and will continue to be inspired by her. She was courage personified, refusing to leave Pakistan even when she felt her life was under threat. She was often there on the streets, marching and protesting, saying things many wouldnt dare to.

Her institutional legacy will live on in the Pakistani judiciary as well as formal human rights activism. In 1987, she co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), which is similar to Indias Peoples Union for Civil Liberties.

There is no one in India today who could be compared to Asma for reference, but a fair comparison would be the late founder of PUCL, Jayaprakash Narayan, the Gandhian freedom fighter who became the icon of the anti-Emergency movement.

As the lawyers' fraternity has been increasingly radicalised, Asma will shine on for those lawyers who seek to use the law to secure freedom and rights. In 2007, Jahangir was a leading figure in the lawyers movement that threw out General Musharraf. In 2010, she became head of the Supreme Court Bar Association amidst much opposition. To understand what a big deal that was, one has to realise that Jahangir was always at the receiving end of the right-wing, called anti-Islam and a foreign or Indian agent routinely.

Core principles over everything else

What explains her larger than life stature is not just her courage but also her commitment to principles. She had found herself at the receiving end of scathing criticism from the Altaf Hussain-led Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM). A political party that dominates Karachi, the MQM has openly used violence to keep itself in power. Asma did not see eye to eye with the MQM, but when the Pakistani television regulator banned news TV from broadcasting Altaf Hussains press conferences, she rose to defend him in court. No other lawyer was willing to do so, but for Asma it was about the principle of freedom of speech.

When Asma met Bal Thackeray

The Pakistani right-wing has often used a photo of her with Bal Thackeray to show her up as not only an Indian agent but also as someone who was in cahoots with the anti-Muslim right-wing in India. But that photo is from a meeting she had as part of her job as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights. She was in India to work on human rights in India, including issues pertaining to Indian Muslims. That was in 2008. It is unthinkable today.

Kashmir and Balochistan

Similarly, the Indian right-wing discredits her by using a photo of her from a recent protest against human rights violations in Indian Kashmir. But that's what Asma was. Advocating human rights in Pakistan, and peace with India, did not make her mince words about human rights violations in India or elsewhere. Advocating human rights in Kashmir did not mean that she was silent about Balochistan.

It is difficult for those who indulge in partisan politics to understand what it means to take a principled position on issues, no matter what the context. Silence, for Asma, was not an option. She was a Muslim and a Pakistani, but she also belonged to the religion of freedom, and the nation of human rights, thus becoming an inspiration for everyone.The deputy chief executive of Oxfam Penny Lawrence resigned over the British charity's handling of a prostitution scandal in Haiti involving its staff members and allegations of similar behaviour in Chad

London: The deputy chief executive of Oxfam resigned on Monday over the British charity's handling of a prostitution scandal in Haiti involving its staff members and allegations of similar behaviour in Chad.

"As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility," Penny Lawrence said in a statement.

Oxfam has faced severe criticism for a lack of transparency over misconduct allegations against staff members accused of using prostitutes in Haiti following a devastating 2010 earthquake.

The charity has denied covering up the scandal.

Oxfam's chair of trustees Caroline Thomson and chief executive Mark Goldring had been called to explain themselves at a meeting earlier on Monday with International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt.

The minister has threatened to cut government funding for the charity unless it shows "moral leadership".

Oxfam received 31.7 million (35.7 million euros, $43.8 million) from state coffers last year.

The allegations centre around Roland van Hauwermeiren who was Oxfam's country director for Haiti and was previously the head of the charity's mission in Chad.

Oxfam investigated sexual misconduct allegations in 2011 and van Hauwermeiren was one of three staff members who resigned while four others were dismissed.

"Over the last few days, we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed adequately to act upon.

"It is now clear that these allegations  involving the use of prostitutes and which related to the behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad  were raised before he moved to Haiti," Lawrence said in her statement.The Philippines on Monday expanded a ban on its citizens working in Kuwait after President Rodrigo Duterte angrily lashed out at the Gulf state over reports of Filipino workers suffering abuse and exploitation

Manila: The Philippines on Monday expanded a ban on its citizens working in Kuwait after President Rodrigo Duterte angrily lashed out at the Gulf state over reports of Filipino workers suffering abuse and exploitation.

Authorities say 252,000 Filipinos work in Kuwait, many as maids. They are among over two million employed in the region, whose remittances are a lifeline to the Philippine economy. But Labour Secretary Silvestre Bello Monday announced a "total ban" on new employment in the country, including Filipinos who had already obtained employment permits but had not yet left for the wealthy oil-producing country.

Authorities have not ruled out revoking the permits of Filipinos currently working in Kuwait or of previous hires

returning on new contracts.

"With the advent of the series of reports involving abuses and deaths of overseas Filipino workers in Kuwait, a total ban on deployment of all overseas workers is hereby enforced," Bello said, reading an order.

"This order takes effect immediately." The move would affect thousands of workers, labour spokeswoman Abegail de Vega said. The fresh move came after Duterte last month barred Filipinos from seeking work in Kuwait, although the ban exempted those who had already secured permission.

Last Friday Duterte hit out at Kuwait as he brandished photos reportedly of a Filipina maid found in a freezer, saying she had been "roasted like a pig". Duterte has been vocal on the issue of abuse of Filipinos in the Middle East, even threatening a ban on citizens working anywhere in the region.

He also alleged Arab employers routinely raped their Filipina workers, forced them to work 21 hours each day and

fed them scraps. "Is there something wrong with your culture? Is there something wrong with your values?" he had said, addressing Kuwait.

Kuwait's embassy in Manila declined to comment. Accounts of Filipinos being subjected to abuse, overwork, rape or dying in suspicious circumstances in the region have long circulated.

The Philippine foreign affairs department said Monday authorities were repatriating 10,000 overstaying Filipinos from Kuwait, taking advantage of an amnesty programme arranged with the Kuwaiti government. Officials added they were eyeing China and Russia as "alternative markets" for overseas workers.US secretary of state Rex Tillerson was expected to meet President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Egypt on Monday, diplomatic sources said.

Cairo: US secretary of state Rex Tillerson was expected to meet President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Egypt on Monday, diplomatic sources said, as he started a tour of the West Asia.

Tillerson landed in Cairo late Sunday and had dinner with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry. The envoy was set to talk with Sisi in the early afternoon, after seeing staff of the US embassy in Cairo and a second meeting with Shoukry.

A US State Department official said Tillerson's talks in Egypt would focus on "regional issues of mutual concern such as Libya and Syria, our shared commitment to fighting terrorism", and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. "Concerns about human rights and civil society are a topic of continuing conversation with the Egyptians," the official added, expecting the topic to be addressed during talks.

Tillerson's visit comes as Sisi, who has been president since 2014, looks set to be re-elected in March in polls in which he will face a single opponent.

"On the elections, we support a genuine and a credible electoral process, and we believe should guarantee the right for all citizens to participate freely and fairly," the US State Department official said. "We have noted our concerns about the reports that Egypt's prosecutor general has launched an investigation into opposition figures ahead of the" 26 March elections, he added.

Tillerson's trip to Cairo comes after Vice-President Mike Pence visited in January to discuss security in the region and the future of US aid to Egypt. After Cairo, Tillerson is to head to Kuwait to take part in a ministerial meeting of the US-led military coalition that has been battling the Islamic State jihadist group in Iraq and neighbouring Syria.

He is also set to visit Jordan to meet King Abdullah II and Lebanon to meet President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Saad Hariri. He is then set to head to Turkey for discussions with Washington's NATO ally including on the conflict in Syria.South Africas ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa said the partys executive body would meet on Monday to finalise discussions on the future of President Jacob Zuma.

Cape Town: South Africas African National Congress (ANC) leader Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday the partys executive body would meet on Monday to finalise discussions on the future of President Jacob Zuma, who is under mounting pressure to step down.

Speaking at a rally as part of celebrations marking 100 years since the birth of former President Nelson Mandela, he said Zumas exit should be undertaken in an orderly fashion just as the anti-apartheid icon would have handled it.

The 75-year-old Zuma, in power since 2009 and mired in corruption allegations, has been living on borrowed time since Ramaphosa took over his other role as leader of the ruling party in December. Addressing ANC supporters in Cape Town, Ramaphosa, who is deputy president, said: The National Executive Committee of the ANC will be meeting tomorrow to discuss this very matter, and because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that.

The partys National Executive Committee has the power to instruct Zuma to resign.

Though he avoided mentioning Zuma by name, Ramaphosa spoke several times of a transition of power in reference to talks on Zumas future and said the ANC wanted to resolve issues around the president of the country. In a speech which also marked 28 years to the day since Mandela was released from an apartheid-era prison, Ramaphosa said the talks on Zumas future should be handled in an orderly, purposeful manner, in Madibas way of doing things,  using Mandelas clan name.

Ramaphosa was at Mandelas side, holding a microphone, when the leader addressed thousands outside Cape Towns city hall on the same day 28 years ago after his release. Ramaphosa had earlier on Sunday attended a service at Cape Towns Anglican St Georges Cathedral. We leave this church well armed with the good blessings and prayer ... so as the leadership of the ANC we have been well empowered as we move ahead... and as we manage this transition, Ramaphosa told reporters.

St Georges Cathedral was at the forefront of the anti-apartheid struggle and during a Christmas mass service in 2017 its Archbishop Thabo Makgoba called on the new ANC leadership to act quickly and decisively to replace Zuma as head of state.

No-confidence vote

The ANC called off a special meeting of its executive body on Zuma scheduled for last Wednesday after the president and Ramaphosa agreed to hold talks on a handover of power.

The party has only said that the talks were constructive. ANC spokesman Pule Mabe said the executive committees meeting on Monday had been brought forward from next weekend, because of the urgency of the leadership issue.

Zuma, who no longer holds a top position in the party, has not said whether he will resign voluntarily before his second term as President ends in the mid-2017.

Zuma also faces another no-confidence vote against his leadership in parliament on 22 February, brought by the ultra-left Economic Freedom Fighters party.Pakistan rejected allegations that it was involved in the terror attack on Sunjuwan army camp, saying Indian media and officials make 'irresponsible' statements even before any investigation is initiated.

Islamabad: Pakistan on Sunday rejected allegations that it was involved in the terror attack on Sunjuwan army camp, saying Indian media and officials make "irresponsible" statements even before any investigation is initiated.

The Foreign Office spokesperson also accused India of carrying out a "smear campaign against Pakistan and the deliberate creation of war hysteria."

"It is a well established pattern that Indian officials begin making irresponsible statements and levelling unfounded allegations, even before any proper investigation in any incident has been initiated," the Foreign Office spokesperson said, when asked about the attack on Sunjuwan army camp in Jammu.

"A particular segment in the Indian media runs with their innuendos to malign Pakistan and whips up public frenzy. We are confident that the world community would take due cognisance of India's smear campaign against Pakistan, and the deliberate creation of war hysteria," the spokesperson said.

A group of heavily armed Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in the early hours on Saturday, triggering a gunbattle.

Security forces have neutralised three terrorists holed up in the army camp while six people, including five army personnel, were killed in the attack.

The latest attack on the camp took place nearly 15 months after the Jammu region was hit by a similar attack.

On 29 November, 2016, terrorists had stormed the army's Nagrota camp on the outskirts of the city, killing seven army personnel, including two officers. Three terrorists were gunned down in the operation.

Intelligence inputs had warned of an attack on an army or security establishment by Jaish-e-Mohammed in view of the death anniversary of Afzal Guru, who was hanged on 9 February, 2013, for the 2001 attack on Parliament House.Story updated to include statement of Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno's camp.

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 12)  Two Supreme Court justices said embattled Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno should not have been included in the list of nominees to head the judiciary over noncompliance to a requirement in public office.

Associate Justices Teresita de Castro, who was also one of the nominees for chief justice, said the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) committed a "grave injustice" to other applicants when they accepted her application even after she failed to submit her Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN).

"(Sereno) should not have even be interviewed. There was grave injustice done to all the applicants because of what they did to Sereno at that time. There was not even substantial compliance. There is noncompliance absolutely," De Castro said in the House Justice Committee hearing on Monday.

Associate Justice Diosdado Peralta, who was the former JBC en banc chair, said he was not informed Sereno did not submit her SALN when she applied for chief justice.

Peralta added, he could have objected to Sereno's application when he knew she did not submit her SALN.

He also said Sereno's appointment could be declared void, as she should instead be considered a de facto officer.

JBC Executive Director Annaliza Ty-Capacite, however, said Sereno sent a letter to the JBC saying she cannot submit her SALN as she no longer has access to the documents.

She added because many applicants failed to submit all of their SALNs, then congressional representative to the JBC Senator Francis Escudero suggested to relax the rule and to allow substantial compliance.

Capacite said Sereno submitted three SALNs, covering 2009, 2010, and 2011, which they already considered substantial.

Capacite added one of the JBC ex-officio members said there should at least be substantial compliance, or in Sereno's case, an attempt to submit the SALN, for her inclusion in the JBC shortlist.

Before assuming the Chief Justice post in 2012, Sereno taught at the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law from 1986 to 2006.

Applicants to the post are required to submit their SALN for the past decade, in this case from 2002 to 2011.

In past hearings, UP said they only have the 2002 SALN of Sereno.

"The submission of SALN is very important. The JBC said applicants with incomplete, out-of-date documentary requirements will not be considered for nomination," De Castro said.

The associate justice added, the JBC became strict after Sereno's predecessor, late Chief Justice Renato Corona, was impeached for failure to declare his foreign bank accounts.

Sereno camp: Peralta had an axe to grind vs. Sereno

In a statement, Sereno's camp maintained the Chief Justice complied with all the requirements when she applied for the top judicial post.

Jojo Lacanilao, one of Sereno's spokespersons, said Justice Peralta had an "axe to grind" against Sereno, because his wife, Court of Appeals (CA) Associate Justice Audrey Peralta, was excluded from the shortlist of nominees for CA Presiding Justice submitted by the JBC to President Rodrigo Duterte.

"Justice Peralta should have some delicadeza in not allowing personal disappointments to color his testimonies before the Justice Committee," Lacanilao said.

Peralta's wife failed to submit her validated NBI clearance, blood test, and sugar count on time.

Sereno is currently the ex-officio chair of the JBC.

CNN Philippines' Joyce Ilas and Yvette Morales contributed to this report..   30%        20%   COVID-19.             .          -    2%  .       ,     .     ....Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 12)  Former President Benigno Aquino III, two former Secretaries, and several others are facing a new lawsuit over the Dengvaxia mess.

The groups Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) and Vanguard of the Philippine Constitution, Inc. (VPCI) filed a joint complaint at the Justice Department Monday against Aquino, former Budget Secretary Butch Abad, former Health Secretary Janette Garin, former and current officials of the Health Department, as well as Zuellig Pharma and Sanofi Pasteur.

Among the charges are violation of the procurement law, graft, and technical malversation.

The complainants say testimonies of resource persons at House and Senate hearings support their claim that the respondents were "directly and proximately" responsible for the Dengvaxia mess. The complainants say the respondents should "be held to account not only for the ensuing deaths, but also for the undue injury caused any private party, including the government."

The complaint says Aquino and others illegally and anomalously funded and procured Dengvaxia, as well as "advisedly, thoughtlessly, and imprudently implemented the Dengue Immunization Program of the DOH en masse."

It cites an affidavit by Dr. Clarito Cairo of the Health Department where he says representatives of Sanofi were present in workshops and trainings conducted by the DOH even before the vaccine was procured by the government.

The complainants say this "smacked" of favoritism and a violation of Section 65(3) of R.A. No. 9184, or the Procurement law, because it put undue influence or pressure on members of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) to favor Zuellig/Sanofi Pasteur.

The complaint also says some deaths and dengue shock incidents are irrefutably linked to Dengvaxia. It adds, the respondents should have known that the efficacy and safety of the vaccine could not yet be determined with pinpoint accuracy at phase 3 of trials but failed to disclose this and any adverse events associated with the mass vaccination, contrary to law and existing regulations.

Aquino, Abad, Garin, and Dr. Julius Lecciones, medical center chief of Philippine Children's Medical Center, are also accused of technical malversation as they appropriated P3.5 billion for the procurement of Dengvaxia even if there was no appropriation for it nor does it belong to the same allotment class under the school-based Dengue immunization program in the National Capital Region (NCR), Calabarzon and Central Luzon."

In a message to CNN Philippines, Abi Valte, spokesperson of former President Aquino said, "Former President Aquino is prepared to answer the baseless allegations made against him."

RELATED: TIMELINE: The Dengvaxia controversy :        ,      

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Google is said to be planning on taking the iPhone X notch design with its next major OS upgrade, and it will also be a complete overhaul of its software according to the sources of Bloomberg. Furthermore, the next major update will tightly integrate the Googles voice assistant, improve battery and support new designs, like multiple screens and foldable displays.

Googles goal is to lure maximum iPhone users to shift to its Android operating system by working on improving the look and feel of the software. Though Google is dominating the low-end of mid-range smartphone segment, it is the flagship and premium segment that is lagging behind Apple with users who spend more on apps and other services. For this exact reason, Google believes that embracing the iPhone X style notch design will help it.

This means that we may actually see Android phones with a notch at the top of the screens to fit cameras and other sensors. This, however, will have support for new features which might help Android users keep up with similarApple technology. However, it is unlikely that Google might actually solve the nagging software update rollouts which make billions of Android phone exposing security holes and holding them back in terms of latest innovation.

Since Google is just a provider of Android OS, not all phones might embrace the top notch, in fact, Samsung even mocked Apple when iPhone X released back in November. Currently, the Essential phone is the only one in the market to have a notch on top within the display. If rumors are to believed, then the Huawei P20 will be next on the list.

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The compound developed by Japanese drug maker Shionogi & Co. was found to work three times faster than Tamiflu, the most popular flu drug on the market, wiping out the virus in 24 hours.

Dr. Marc Siegel, NYC Langone Medical Center professor, said it works to decrease viral sheddinga process that occurs when a virus is present in bodily fluids or open wounds and can be transmitted to another person.

Its like something out of science fiction, Dr. Siegel said to FOX Business Stuart Varney on Varney & Co. This particular drug...blocks the ability that the flu virus has to take over the inside of your cell. he said

The drug just finished stage 3 trials and will be approved in Europe this spring however it wont be available in the U.S until next year.

It also requires a single dose as compared to Tamiflu which involves two doses a day for five days. Tamiflu, the leading drug to treat the virus, is made by Genentech, a unit of The Roche Group.

Even if the drug lives up to its claim it wont take the place of the universal flu vaccine, in Dr. Siegels opinion.

This is a great anti-viral drug it looks very promising, he said.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 13)  Local governments in Visayas and Mindanao suspended classes for Tuesday, Feb. 13, due to Tropical Storm "Basyang."

Here's the list:

Agusan del Norte (all levels)

Agusan del Sur (preschool to highschoo)

Biliran

Almeria (all levels)

Culaba (all levels)

Naval (all levels)

Cebu (all levels)

Davao

Davao City (all levels)

Iloilo

Iloilo City (preschool to elementary)

Lanao del Norte

Iligan City (all levels)

Leyte

Barugo (elementary to high school)

Tacloban City (all levels)

Tanauan (elementary to high school)

Negros Occidental

Bacolod City (pre-school to high school, public only)

Northern Mindanao

Cagayan de Oro City (all levels)

Malaybalay, Bukidnon (pre-school)

Southern Leyte

Maasin City (all levels)

Surigao del Norte

Surigao City (pre-school to high school)

Zamboanga del Sur (all levels)

Authorities advised residents in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas to evacuate early to prevent casualties.

This is a developing story. Please refresh the page for updates.

Stringers Wil Mark Amazona and Marlon Panares contributed to this report.Maryland State Sen. Richard Madaleno is calling for greater investment in education as part of his effort to lure Amazon to Montgomery County, Maryland, a finalist for Amazons (NASDAQ:AMZN) second headquarters. Amazon is one of the most profitable companies in the world already, Madaleno, a Democrat, told FOX Business Stuart Varney on Varney & Co.

States and cities are offering all kinds of benefits to attract the companies new home, which could create up to 50,000 jobs.

Montgomery County is facing competition from a potential site on the border of nearby Fairfax County and Loudoun County in Northern Virginia. Other contenders including New Jersey has put forward tax break incentives.

Mayors from Danbury, Conn., to Frisco, Texas, to Washington D.C., even recruited Alexa, Amazons voice assistant, to create videos aimed at grabbing CEO Jeff Bezos attention.

Also in Maryland, Republican Gov. Larry Hogan has proposed as much as $5 billion in incentives to the e-commerce company.

Madaleno, who is running for governor, said Amazon is looking to communities that have spent generations investing in public education, infrastructure and public amenities.

What they need are highly educated workers to work in their facilities in order to drive their productivity in order to make them more profitable, and they need a base of people around the world who can afford to buy their products, he said.

Jeff Bezos, who succeeded Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) founder Bill Gates as the worlds richest person in October 2017, is now worth $112.6 billion according to Forbes.

Although wage equality has been a platform for Democrats, Madaleno said he is betting on Bezos to build a strong ecosystem that invests in workers.JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:JPM) CEO Jamie Dimon has sure come a long way on his bitcoin stance  by first calling the cryptocurrency a fraud to saying blockchain is real to now releasing what some are calling the Bitcoin Bible for investors  all in less than five months' time.

The 71-page pamphlet, which was released Monday, details everything from the technology of cryptocurrencies, to their applications and challenges.

According to the report, the extremely rapid growth and falls of various digital currencies over the last several months have forced not only JPMorgan Chase but all market participants to closely monitor and understand this new market.

[Cryptocurrencies] are unlikely to disappear completely and could easily survive in varying forms and shapes among players who desire greater decentralization, peer-to-peer networks and anonymity, even as the latter is under threat, the report said, adding that the underlying technology could have the greatest application in area where current payment systems are slow.

Today, there are over 1,500 cryptocurrencies with a market cap of $400 billion, with bitcoin being the largest representing a third of the market (around $140 billion), according to CoinMarketCap.

JPMorgan Chase said the biggest challenges ahead for digital currencies is that it will be extremely hard for them to displace and compete with government-issued currencies, as dollars to euros and yuan are virtual natural monopolies in their regions and will not easily give up their seigniorage profits.

Additionally, cryptocurrencies are experiencing heightened volatility and will face continued challenges from both a technology standpoint from rising mining costs and hacking to regulators who are concerned about anti-money laundering and investor protection.

Last October, a month after calling bitcoin a fraud, Dimon blasted the digital currency again at the Institute of International Finance conference, saying, If youre stupid enough to buy it, you will pay the price for it one day.

But in January, Dimon backpedaled his previous comments in an interview with FOX Business Maria Bartiromo saying he regrets making those statements and admits that blockchain is real.

Bitcoin is up over 2.41% to $8,615.19 on Monday.Most U.S. workers lack paid parental leave, with only 13% of private employees having access in 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

But now, the situation may be changing with major corporations including Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG) and Walmart (NYSE:WMT) planning to use some of the cash freed up from the tax overhaul to boost benefits.

With expected savings from the reduction of the corporate tax rate to 21% from 35%, these companies are using the extra cash to sweeten parental leave policies.

Chipotle Mexican Grill

When Chipotle Mexican Grill announced that it would increase benefits to workers as a result of expected tax reform savings, the company said that it would provide additional paid parental leave for everyone, from hourly managers to salaried employees.

This parental leave benefits are part of Chipotles increased benefits to its workers in the wake of tax reform. Chipotle said it will invest more than one-third of its anticipated savings from tax reform on behalf of its employees, with the remainder invested into improving its restaurant facilities and operations.

CVS

When announcing increased benefits to employees thanks to tax reform, CVS (NYSE:CVS) said that effective April 1, full-time employees who become parents can take up to four weeks off and receive 100% of their pay.

Walmart

The company expanded its parental and maternity leave policy and will provide full-time hourly associates in the U.S. with 10 weeks of paid maternity leave and six weeks of paid parental leave. Salaried associates will also receive six weeks of paid parental leave.

More from FOX Business Oracle, Caesars look to US college students to fill hiring gap

Walmart will also provide financial assistance to associates adopting a child. The adoption benefit available to both full-time hourly and salaried associates will total $5,000 per child and may be used for expenses related to adoption. Walmart said the changes will take place in February.

When releasing the details of its sweetened employee compensation and benefits following tax reform, Doug McMillon, Walmart president and CEO said: We are early in the stages of assessing the opportunities tax reform creates for us to invest in our customers and associates and to further strengthen our business, all of which should benefit our shareholders. However, some guiding themes are clear and consistent with how weve been investing -- lower prices for customers, better wages and training for associates and investments in the future of our company, including in technology. Tax reform gives us the opportunity to be more competitive globally and to accelerate plans for the U.S.Caterpillar (CAT) rose Monday as President Donald Trump detailed his $1.5 trillion plan to improve U.S. highways, bridges, ports, tunnels and airports, but its gain was dwarfed by that of many of the other infrastructure companies.

The construction equipment manufacturer said last month on a conference call that the revenue boost from an infrastructure bill would be limited.

We have not incorporated any impacts from a potential U.S. infrastructure bill on our outlook, and if one were passed, it would be positive, Brad Halverson, chief financial officer of Caterpillar, said on the call. But we were not expecting it to materially impact our 2018 results.

The infrastructure program that Trump announced would deploy $200 billion in federal spending, with the balance financed by state and local governments as well as the private sector. The president made the announcement amid concern that government spending will widen the budget deficit and push bond yields higher.

With Caterpillars stock having climbed more than 50% in the past year, its shares are trading at 120 trailing earnings, compared with 15 for Nucor (NUE) and 16 for United States Steel (X). Yet Caterpillars shares are trading at 14 times forward earnings.

Ticker Security Last Change Change % CAT CATERPILLAR, INC. 206.20 +1.19 +0.58% AKS n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. NUE NUCOR CORP. 109.20 -3.05 -2.72% X UNITED STATES STEEL CORP. 25.38 -0.54 -2.08%

Similarly, AK Steel Holding (AKS), which was one of the infrastructure sector's best performers Monday, has a high trailing price/earnings ratio of 157, but it may be cheap on a forward basis at 6.6.

A forward p/e that is significantly lower than the trailing p/e may be a sign that the company is poised to increase earnings.Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., has attracted a well-funded challenger for his seat on Capitol Hill.

Bob Hugin, who recently retired as executive chairman of the pharmaceutical company Celgene, plans to seek the Republican nomination to oppose Menendez, NJ.com reported.

Hugin, 63, will start Tuesday with appearances in Springfield and Delran.

"Bob Hugin has lived the American Dream," said Hugin's deputy campaign manager, Sarah Neibart. "He is running for U.S. Senate to be an independent voice for New Jersey and to ensure that people in every community in our state can build better lives for themselves and their families."

Menendez's poll ratings plummeted before the Justice Department dropped its corruption case against him.Cox Enterprises said Wednesday the majority of its employees will receive bonuses of up to $2,000 following the passage of tax reform.

The Atlanta-based company, which owns the Cox cable provider among other businesses, announced that bonuses of $1,000 to $2,000 will be distributed on Tax Day to employees who have worked at Cox Enterprises for at least a year and are not part of an executive incentive plan. The move impacts most of the companys nearly 60,000 employees.

The $1.5 trillion tax bill reduces the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and changes the way the U.S. government taxes companies that also operate internationally.

FOX Business is keeping track of the tax benefits that have reached over 3 million Americans so far.

Updated 3/7/18

Anthem

Anthem Inc. (NYSE:ANTM) said it would contribute retirement savings for more than 58,000 current and former employees, joining other major corporations in rewarding workers after the passage of a GOP-backed tax reform package.

The Indianapolis-based health insurance company said its associates and recent retirees will receive $1,000 toward their 401(k) accounts, for a total investment of more than $58 million. Anthem said other tax reform-related savings would be used to reduce the cost of healthcare for customers.

Apple

The California-based tech giant gave employees below the senior level title of "director" bonuses worth $2,500. The awards were composed of restricted stock units, a source familiar with the situation told FOX Business.

AT&T

The telecom giant said in late December that more than 200,000 of its employees, including union-represented and non-management workers, will be eligible for a $1,000 bonus. The checks will be in the mail in time for the holidays if Trump finalizes the tax bill with his signature before Christmas. AT&T (NYSE:T) also said it will invest $1 billion more than expected in the U.S. in 2018, once the cuts are final.

Congress, working closely with the President, took a monumental step to bring taxes paid by U.S. businesses in line with the rest of the industrialized world, AT&T Chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson said in a statement. This tax reform will drive economic growth and create good-paying jobs.

BNY Mellon

Starting on March 1, Bank of New York Mellon Corp. will raise minimum wage to $15 per hour for roughly 1,000 of its 52,500 employees, the Wall Street Journal reported.

BNY Mellon executives noted the new tax code will allow for savings of roughly $250 million per year, which will be used on technology upgrades.

Boeing

The aerospace and defense company immediately announced $300 million in investments after the bill passed, with $100 million toward corporate giving including employee gift-match programs, $100 million toward workforce development, training and education and $100 million toward enhancing Boeings workplaces.

"On behalf of all of our stakeholders, we applaud and thank Congress and the administration for their leadership in seizing this opportunity to unleash economic energy in the United States," Boeing (NYSE:BA) President and CEO Dennis Muilenburg said in a statement. "It's the single-most important thing we can do to drive innovation, support quality jobs and accelerate capital investment in our country."

Charter Communications

Charter, which owns the Spectrum cable brand, says all of its employees will be paid at least $15 per hour within the next year. The company cited tax reform and the repeal of net neutrality rules for its decision.

"Charter's workforce is key to the success of our company," Charter CEO Tom Rutledge said in a statement. "Our commitment to pay every employee at least a $15 per hour income will enhance our efforts to develop our highly-skilled, diverse and locally based workforce, improving their lives and the lives of the customers they serve."

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG) is rolling out benefits reaching all of its 71,000 employees, including special cash and stock bonuses and enhanced paid and parental leave.

Qualified hourly employees and salaried restaurant employees will receive a special one-time cash bonus of up to $1,000, and some staff employees will receive a one-time stock grant.

Other offerings will include accelerated training programs, and additional paid parental leave for everyone, from hourly managers to salaried employees.

The company also added life insurance and short-term disability insurance coverage for hourly restaurant managers.

According to the company, the tax cut and the jobs cut made the sweetened compensation and benefits possible. The company will invest more than one-third of its anticipated savings from tax law changes on behalf of its employees, and the remainder will be used to improve its restaurant facilities and operations.

The company said it has already started rolling out these new benefits.

Comcast

The Philadelphia-based telecom corporation said it would award $1,000 bonuses to more than 100,000 non-executive employees. In addition, Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) NBC Universal Chairman and CEO Brian L. Roberts said the company plans to spend more than $50 billion in the next five years on infrastructure investments that are expected to create "thousands of new direct and indirect jobs."

In a press release, Comcast said the initiatives were "based on the passage of tax reform and the FCC's action on broadband."

CVS

Hourly employees of CVS Health (NYSE:CVS) will see their wages increase to $11 per hour from $9, effective April 2018. The company also plans to adjust pay ranges and rates for many of its retail employees later in the year.

The company is creating a new paid parental leave program. Effective April 1, 2018, full-time employees who become parents can take up to four weeks away from work at 100% of their pay.

Fifth Third Bancorp

The Cincinnati-based banking corporation said it would raise the minimum hourly wage for all employees to $15 per hour and dispense $1,000 bonuses for more than 13,500 workers. The company says tax reform was directly responsible for the initiatives.

It is good for our communities, employees and Fifth Third Bank (NASDAQ:FITB), Fifth Third President and CEO Greg Carmichael said.

Home Depot

Home Depot (NYSE:HD) announced it will pay its U.S. hourly workers a one-time bonus of up to $1,000 tied to President Trumps tax reform.

"This incremental investment in our associates was made possible by the new tax reform bill," Craig Menear, chairman and CEO of the company, said in a statement.

The Home Depot bonus will be paid in addition to the retailers existing bonuses. It employs more than 400,000 associates.

JPMorgan Chase

The country's largest bank said it will raise wages for roughly 22,000 workers to between $15 and $18 per hour. JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:JPM) employees are also set to receive a $750 bonus this month.

JetBlue

The New York-based airline said on Jan. 4 that it would grant a $1,000 to each of its 21,000 crewmembers, with the exception of its CEO and other executives.

"We believe these tax changes will be positive for our company, and provide us the opportunity to do good things for our crewmembers, customers and shareholders," JetBlue President and CEO Robin Hayes said in a letter to company employees.

J.M. Smucker

J.M. Smucker Co. will offer one-time $1,000 bonuses to thousands of its employees, joining other major companies in rewarding employees due to savings tied to the recent passage of GOP-backed tax reform.

The Ohio-based company said last week that nearly 5,000 employees will receive bonuses. In addition, Smucker announced $1 million in charitable donations and $20 million in investments toward employee pension plans.

Lowe's

The retailer said it's giving more than 260,000 of its hourly employees bonuses of up to $1,000 as well as expanding its benefit plans to include adoption assistance and paid parental leave.

In addition, Lowe's said it plans to shorten its eligibility time for new employees who want to enroll in the company's health plans, giving them the option to sign up in the first 30 days of service.

McCormick

McCormick & Company (NYSE:MKC) will use a portion of its savings from tax reform to pay out $1,000 bonuses in May to eligible U.S. hourly employees and will accelerate wage increases, adding that the majority of hourly employees will benefit from the changes.

McCormick said in a statement that in addition to employee bonuses and wage increases, the company will use its tax benefits to make strategic investments to drive growth, return cash to shareholders and pay down debt.

MetLife

The New York-based insurance company (NYSE:MET) said it will increase its minimum wage to $15 per hour, enhance employee benefits and boost retirement plan contributions for all of its workers. MetLife also said it plans to create a new $10 million skills development fund to help its employees around the world upgrade their workplace skills.

Starbucks

Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX) is giving all of its U.S.-based hourly and salaried workers an unspecified raise in April, in addition to a wage increase already dispersed earlier in the fiscal year, which began last October. Starbucks says it is investing roughly $120 million in the wage increases.

The company is also awarding workers stock grants worth a total of more than $100 million to those employed by the chain as of Jan. 1, 2018. Retail employees will receive at least a $500 grant, while store managers will receive grants of $2,000, the chain said.

Southwest Airlines

The Dallas-based airline is awarding a $1,000 cash bonus to all of its full-time and part-time employees. The bonuses will be distributed on Jan. 8. In addition, Southwest said it will donate $5 million toward charitable causes and partner with Boeing to modernize its fleet of planes.

We applaud Congress and the President for taking this action to pass legislation, which will result in meaningful corporate income tax reform for the transportation sector in general, and for Southwest Airlines, in particular, Southwest Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Gary Kelly said in a statement. We are excited about the savings and additional capital, which we intend to put to work in several formsto reward our hard-working employees, to reinvest in our business, to reward our shareholders, and to keep our costs and fares low for our Customers.

Tyson Foods

The Arkansas-based food company said it will award $1,000 bonuses to full-time employees and $500 to part-time employees who did not already receive an annual bonus. Tyson CEO Tom Hayes said in an email to employees that the companys total savings from tax reform will top $300 million, with leftover cash from the bonuses used to improve training and education, the Associated Press reported.

U-Haul

U-Haul said it will issue bonuses to its full-time and part-time employees, joining other corporations in rewarding employees after the passage of tax reform.

The Phoenix-based moving and storage company, which is a subsidiary of AMERCO, said full-time employees will receive a one-time bonus of $1,200 and part-time workers will receive a bonus of $500. The bonuses will be issued by the end of February and amount to more than $23 million in payments to nearly 29,000 team members, U-Haul said.

U.S. Bank

U.S. Bancorp, the parent company of U.S. Bank, is distributing $1,000 bonuses to roughly 60,000 of its employees and raising minimum wage for hourly workers to $15 per hour. The Minneapolis-based company is also donating $150 million to the U.S. Bank Foundation, upgrading health care packages for its employees and investing in better customer service capabilities.

"We believe that tax reform is positive for the U.S. economy because it provides an immediate opportunity to benefit our employees, our communities and our customers, said Andy Cecere, U.S. Bank's president and CEO. We are proud of our people and their commitment to our customers and communities. We felt it was important to reward their hard work and dedication with this special bonus, the minimum wage increase and the health care enhancements.

Verizon

The telecom giant will give nearly all of its employees 50 shares of restricted stock, worth roughly $53 each as of this week, a source with knowledge of the equity award confirmed to Fox News. The share prices will be set on Feb. 1.

Wal-Mart

Wal-Mart (NYSE:WMT), the world's largest employer, boosted pay for U.S. hourly workers to $11 per hour. Additionally, the retailer is giving one-time $1,000 bonus payments to workers, depending on length of service. It is also extending maternity and parental benefits for workers. The changes take place in February.

The Walt Disney Co.

More than 125,000 Disney employees will receive $1,000 cash bonuses, the company announced on Jan. 23. The bonuses will be dispersed in two payments, one in March and another in September. In addition, Disney invested $50 million in an education program to cover tuition payments for hourly employees.

I am proud we are directing approximately $125 million to our cast members and employees across the country and making higher education more accessible with the launch of this new program, Disney CEO Bob Iger said in a statement. I have always believed that education is the key to opportunity; it opens doors and creates new possibilities. Matched with the $1,000 cash bonus, these initiatives will have both an immediate and long-term positive impact.

Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) said it would raise the minimum wage for its team members to $15 per hour and earmark $400 million for philanthropic initiatives in 2018. Some $100 million of that total will be committed to boosting small businesses, while $75 million will support neighborhood revitalization efforts.

We believe tax reform is good for our U.S. economy and are pleased to take these immediate steps to invest in our team members, communities, small businesses, and homeowners, said Wells Fargo President and CEO Tim Sloan. We look forward to identifying additional opportunities for Wells Fargo to invest, as we continue to execute our business strategies and provide long-term value to all our stakeholders.The Trump administration is considering privatizing the International Space Station (ISS), and end funding to the orbiting international lab after 2024, a senior NASA official confirmed to Fox News.

According to a document obtained by The Washington Post, which first reported the news, the current White House does not plan to abandon the ISS, but instead is developing a transition plan to hand it off to the private sector.

The decision to end direct federal support for the ISS in 2025 does not imply that the platform itself will be deorbited at that time  it is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform, the internal NASA document obtained by the Post states. NASA will expand international and commercial partnerships over the next seven years in order to ensure continued human access to and presence in low Earth orbit.

The administrations budget request for fiscal year 2019 will ask for $150 million to enable the development and maturation of commercial entities and capabilities which will ensure that commercial successors to the ISS potentially including elements of the ISS  are operational when they are needed.

Since 1993, the U.S. has spent about $87 billion to build and operate the ISS. The space agency awarded a 10-year, $136 million cooperative agreement to the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) to manage non-NASA reach activities on the National Laboratorythe U.S. section of the Space Station. Then, in July 2017, NASA furthered its agreement with CASIS to September 2024, which increased the total cost to $196 million, according to an audit by the NASA Office of Inspector General.

Astronaut Mark Kelly, who visited the space station four times between 2001 and 2011, said in a New York Times opinion piece that cutting funding to the floating lab would be a mistake.

Cutting funding for the station, now between $3 billion and $4 billion a year, would be a step backward for the space agency and certainly not in the best interest of the country, Kelly wrote.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who chairs the Senate Subcommittee on Space, Science and Competitiveness, also opposed the idea of the federal government no longer providing funding for the ISS.

We have invested massively in the ISS. It has produced enormous benefits to the United States and the world, and we should use that asset as long as it is technologically feasible and cost-effective to do so, he said at the Federal Aviation Administrations Commercial Space Transportation Conference last week. As long as Im chairman of the science and space subcommittee, the ISS will continue to have strong and bipartisan support in the United States Congress.

Since ending the Space Shuttle program in 2011, the U.S. relies on Russia to transport astronauts to the ISS. The U.S. currently pays $80 million per seat to travel on Russias Soyuz spacecraft.

Both Boeing (NYSE:BA) and Elon Musks SpaceX are developing crew transportation systems to enable U.S. astronauts to travel on an American-made space vehicle. Certification is expected in early 2019, the same year the contract between Russia and the U.S. expires. However, the two companies which are working under contract with NASA as part of the commercial crew program, have had continued delays, attributed mainly to efforts to further address and reduce risk, which have prevented both from testing their respective transport capsules with a crew on board. Due to the delays, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) said the certifications are likely to slip into December 2019 for SpaceX and February 2020 for Boeing.

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill pressed the two companies for information regarding safety concerns related to the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, which will launch Boeings product, the CST-100 Starliner capsule, as well as previous issues with SpaceXs units.

The contracts Boeing and SpaceX have with the American space agency for the vehicles are worth up to a combined total of $6.8 billion.President Donald Trump said his administration is going to build a nuclear arsenal like youve never seen before, as part of a military buildup provided for under the newly released fiscal year 2019 budget proposal.

In the budget, we took care of the military like its never been taken care of, he said during a meeting at the White House. We will have a nuclear force that will be absolutely modernized and brand new  Well always be number one in that category, certainly as long as Im president.

In addition to the modernization of the U.S. nuclear arsenal, President Trump said the Department of Defense will be increasing arsenals of virtually every weapon  We want you to buy twice what you thought at half the price. Trump also hinted that the administration might look to update the weapons procurement process, so the government can buy artillery and munitions at lower prices.

Last year, President Trump famously called out Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) for the cost of its F-35 fighter jet, which the company later said contributed to its decision to reduce the price of the craft.

The Trump administrations 2019 budget blueprint asks the U.S. military to transition to a new paradigm of thinking about and preparing for the possibility of a major war. It calls for $686 billion in funding for the Department of Defense, a 13% increase over the level enacted in 2017. The Pentagon had requested $597 billion for its annual budget, plus $89 billion to fund ongoing conflicts. The blueprint allocates $24 billion to modernize and sustain the three legs of the nuclear triad  land, sea, and air  as well as nuclear command, control, and communications systems.

While Trump expressed hope the U.S. would never have to use its nuclear technologies, he said the military has to continue building up its arsenal to keep pace with other countries.

The military proposal is part of a larger $4.4 trillion budget blueprint that would add more than $980 billion to the U.S. deficit next year. It includes cuts to entitlement and spending programs like Medicare and Medicaid. It also provides funds for $200 billion worth of spending on the administrations proposed infrastructure overhaul, detailed on Monday.

The new budget proposal comes just days after lawmakers approved a budget deal for 2018, which Trump attributed to the acknowledged need among lawmakers to fund the military.

The budget was recently passed and the reason it was passed it because of our military, he said. Our military was totally depleted.The Weinstein Company on Sunday was hit with a civil-rights lawsuit by New York's attorney general, after a four-month investigation into claims of sexual misconduct against the disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein.

The suit from Attorney General Eric Schneiderman claimed several key figures at the company were complicit in Weinsteins years of alleged sexual harassment and abuse, saying top executives at the company and its human resources department were aware of the reported misconduct, but did nothing. The lawsuit named his brother, Robert, and the board specifically.

The lawsuit emerged amid reports the company was about to be sold to an investor group -- with plans to set up a largely female-led studio.

As alleged in our complaint, The Weinstein Company repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation and discrimination, Schneiderman said in a statement provided to Fox News. Any sale of The Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched. Every New Yorker has a right to a workplace free of sexual harassment, intimidation, and fear.

Schneidermans investigation reportedly discovered instances of Weinstein making death threats to workers while touting his connection to political influencers. Several groups of female employees allegedly were tasked with facilitating his sexual exploits by going with him to events, texting potential sexual partners and giving work opportunities to women he selected after encounters with them.

The complaint even details a Bible that employees had access to, which reportedly outlined the way Weinstein wanted his employees to arrange sexual encounters, which were called personals around the office.

The complaint noted several instances of Weinstein allegedly groping and exposing himself to women at work. At every turn, the suit painted a picture of those involved with TWC as complicit in either ignoring these complaints or allowing threats against the accusers.

In one example, an assistant wrote an email complaint to human resources regarding Weinstein's behavior only to find it forwarded directly to him via email minutes later, according to the suit.

The Attorney Generals office also claims that, rather than punish Weinstein for his misconduct, the board voted unanimously to approve a new contract that monetize complaints against him, opting for a sort-of fine system rather than any termination or punishment. Weinstein could opt to pay $250,000 for the first payment to satisfy a claim, $500,000 for the second, $750,000 for the third and $1 million for each subsequent instance.

"We believe that a fair investigation by Mr. Schneiderman will demonstrate that many of the allegations against Harvey Weinstein are without merit," Weinstein's attorney, Ben Brafman, told Fox news in a statement. "While Mr. Weinstein's behavior was not without fault, there certainly was no criminality, and at the end of the inquiry it will be clear that Harvey Weinstein promoted more women to key executive positions than any other industry leader and there was zero discrimination at either Miramax or TWC.

"If the purpose of the inquiry is to encourage reform throughout the film industry, Mr. Weinstein will embrace the investigation. if the purpose however is to scapegoat Mr. Weinstein, he will vigorously defend himself."

As Variety noted, this lawsuit has come at a precarious time for TWC and an investor group led by Maria Contreras-Sweet, which was in talks to buy the company for $500 million, including $225 million in assumed debt.

While a deal was expected to close as early as this week, the outlet reported all negotiations and dealings have halted amid the lawsuit. Schneidermans complaint noted that the imminent sale of the company likely would leave victims without adequate redress, including a lack of a sufficient victims compensation fund.

My personal feeling is, I understand the AG wanting to protect the rights of all the employees on a going forward basis, Weinstein told Deadline. What I dont understand is why things couldnt be negotiated to meet the needs of everyone. I am the seller. If buyers objects to something the AG wanted to impose, that is out of my control. That said, perhaps somebody did not understand we were taking a company forward and trying to save jobs."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Former child star Amanda Bynes is reportedly getting ready for her close-up again.

Us Weekly reported Sunday the actress is looking to make a triumphant return to Hollywood after being plagued with a troubled past.

A rep for the 31-year-old did not immediately respond to Fox News request for comment.

Amanda is going to be graduating from fashion school this summer, a source told the magazine. She is doing so well and is very excited about the next chapter of her professional life.

Bynes tweeted a photo Saturday where she looked happy and healthy alongside friends over dinner.

The Nickelodeon star, who has kept a low profile in recent years, hasnt acted in a film since 2010s Easy A.

Bynes career came to a screeching halt after two hit-and-runs and a DUI in 2012, followed by a 2013 arrest for throwing a bong out of a window of her 36th-floor apartment in New York City.

Us Weekly added Bynes was then placed in a treatment facility under an involuntary psychiatric hold in 2014. Her mother was granted temporary conservatorship over her celebrity daughter.

However, things have been looking up for the All That alum. In 2015, she returned to Los Angeles Fashion Insitute of Design & Merchandising where she majored in product development.

Ive been really busy at FIDM, and I just finished my midterms, Bynes tweeted in 2016. I am really loving school and I feel that I am learning a lot. I enjoy all of my classes and my teachers are excellent. Im really appreciative of all that FIDM is giving me. Ive been in school learning about the fashion business so I dont have time to tweet.

The source added Bynes has been focused on school and does want to return to acting and there is interest about her return to the small screen.

The source stressed, Amanda will make it a reality  2018 is going to be Amandas triumphant return!(CNN)  An Israeli F-16 fighter jet crashed Saturday in northern Israel after coming under "massive anti-aircraft fire" from Syrian forces, according to the Israeli army.

The incident came after an Israeli combat helicopter successfully intercepted an Iranian unmanned aerial vehicle that had been launched from Syria, the Israel Defense Forces said.

Both pilots aboard the Israeli jet are safe, the Israeli army said, although one pilot was severely injured as a result of an emergency evacuation from the plane.

After the plane came down, Israeli forces attacked 12 targets in Syria, including three aerial defense batteries and four targets described as Iranian, the IDF said.

An IDF statement described the four Iranian targets as "part of Iran's military establishment in Syria."

The statement concludes: "The IDF will act determinately against such severe violations of Israeli sovereignty by Iran and Syria and will continue to act as necessary."

Danny Danon, Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, urged the UN Security Council to condemn Iran's actions and halt its "provocations."

The state-run Syrian Arab News Agency reported that Syrian air defense forces had responded Saturday to what they called Israeli "aggression" by hitting more than one Israeli plane following attacks on a Syrian military base by Israeli jets.

"The Israeli enemy entity early morning at dawn conducted a new aggression against one of the military bases in the central region," SANA said, citing a military source.

IDF spokesman Lt Col Jonathan Conricus told CNN that one Israeli aircraft came down, with all others returning safely to base. The cause of the F-16 crash is being investigated, Conricus said, adding that the IDF has not determined if anti-aircraft fire hit the jet.

The assertions by Israel regarding the downed Iranian drone "are too ridiculous to be addressed," Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi said Saturday, as quoted by state-run Press TV.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran has advisory presence in Syria at the request of the country's legitimate and constitutional government," Qassemi said.

"The government and army of Syria as an independent country have a legitimate right to defend (the country's) territorial integrity and counter any type of foreign aggression."

US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement Saturday that the US was "deeply concerned about today's escalation of violence over Israel's border," but supported Israel's right to defend itself.

"Iran's calculated escalation of threat, and its ambition to project its power and dominance, places all of the people of the region -- from Yemen to Lebanon -- at risk," Nauert said. "The US continues to push back on the totality of Iran's malign activities in the region and calls for an end to Iranian behavior that threatens peace and stability."

Meanwhile, Russia's Foreign Ministry said that "the latest developments and attacks on Syria were viewed with serious concern" and that the loss to Syria and damage resulting from them were being examined.

"We urge all parties involved to exercise restraint and to avoid any actions that could lead to an even greater complication of the situation," the ministry said. "We consider it necessary to unconditionally respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and other countries of the region."

Russia provides significant military backing to the Syrian government.

IDF: Drone on a mission inside Israel

Giving more details on how events unfolded, the IDF's Conricus told CNN an Iranian unmanned drone had been dispatched on a specific mission inside Israel.

The drone entered Israeli airspace at 4:50 a.m. local time Saturday after being tracked by the Israeli military from its launch from the Iranian T-4 command center near Palmyra, Syria, Conricus said. The IDF intercepted it with an Apache attack helicopter, he said, and the remains of the drone fell north of the Israeli town of Beit She'an.

Conricus declined to give details on the drone's presumed mission or whether it was armed. He confirmed it was the first time an Iranian drone had crossed into Israeli airspace since the start of the Syrian civil war in 2011.

In response to the drone infiltration, the IDF attacked the Iranian T-4 center with eight fighter jets, which came under significant Syrian anti-aircraft fire, Conricus said. He added that there was no Iranian or Russian anti-aircraft fire.

As the Israeli planes came under attack, two F-16 pilots decided to eject, and their plane crashed in Israel's Galilee region, Conricus said.

The Israeli air force then launched its attack on 12 further targets inside Syria, Conricus said, all of which were hit.

"We are willing, prepared, and capable to exact a heavy price on anyone that attacks us. However, we are not looking to escalate the situation," Conricus posted on his official Twitter feed.

Escalating tensions

Earlier this week, the Syrian regime claimed that Israel warplanes fired missiles from Lebanese airspace targeting a Syrian military position in the Damascus countryside, SANA reported.

The regime said it intercepted the missiles and destroyed most of them, according to SANA.

The Israeli military declined to comment.

Tensions between Israel and Syria have escalated in recent months.

Israel has conducted dozens of strikes inside Syrian borders to defend what it calls its red lines, and to prevent what it says is Iran's proxy Hezbollah -- fighting alongside the Syrian regime -- from acquiring advanced weaponry.

Authorities also accused Syria in November of violating the 1974 ceasefire agreement by "conducting construction work" in the northern part of the Golan Demilitarized Zone.

The United Nations called Tuesday for a monthlong humanitarian ceasefire throughout Syria as fighting escalates in certain areas.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime recently intensified airstrikes on rebel-held areas such as the northwestern Idlib province, prompting tens of thousands of civilians to flee their homes, according to UN officials.

A Russian warplane was shot down last week in Idlib.

This story was first published on CNN.com, Israel loses warplane under Syrian fire, accuses Iran of drone infiltration."Austrian film director Michael Haneke, an Academy Award and two-time Palme d'Or winner, has compared the Hollywood sexual harassment scandal to a "witch hunt" that has ushered in a "new, men-hating puritanism."

The director of "Amour" and "The White Ribbon" told Austrian daily Kurier that the #MeToo movement's "hysteria of prematurely denouncing" others was "disgusting."

He said what especially bothered him was the "complete spitefulness without any reflection and the blind rage, which is not based on facts but ... destroys the lives of people whose crimes have not been proven."

Haneke said, "people are been killed in the media, lives and careers destroyed."

Several European film figures have expressed doubt about the American #MeToo movement including film star Catherine Deneuve and actor Liam Neeson.CNN is slashing its digital operations as some of its expensive new initiatives struggle, with plans to lay off as many as 50 people as soon as this week, according to Vanity Fair.

Citing people familiar with the matter, Vanity Fair reported that CNN will cut employees around the globe who work in premium businesses including CNN Money, video, product, tech and social publishing. The report also notes that several high profile digital initiatives are being scaled back.

CNN Worldwide President Jeff Zucker has poured millions and millions of dollars into CNNs digital operations, but some of these costly moves have not paid off. BuzzFeed reported in September that CNNs digital unit was facing a $20 million budget shortfall while Vanity Fair reports that CNN Digital has missed its revenue targets over the last year by tens of millions of dollars.

Media analyst Jeffrey McCall told Fox News that the layoffs seem to suggest that CNN may have outkicked its coverage and Zucker wanted his digital group to grow too quickly before having a comprehensive plan in place.

It does seem odd that these cuts are apparently targeted for the digital side at this time, when most strategists seem to think that's an area for potential growth, McCall said. CNN has made a ton of money in recent months with increased ratings as a result of the Trump administration. Thus, it is curious to see CNN acting like a financial cripple when revenue is heading in the right direction.

In recent years, CNN has been criticized for spending heavily on its digital operations without a coherent strategy, and for appointing executives from old-school television operations -- without the requisite expertise -- as its digital leadership.

Theres a real dearth of experience and knowledge, too many flashy projects and too much leading by press release, a CNN insider told Fox News.

Weve been transparent about our strategy, a CNN spokesman told Vanity Fair. In order to innovate, grow and experiment, we've added more than 200 jobs in the past 18 months. Not every new project has paid off so we will stop some activities in order to reallocate those resources and enable future experimentation. Organizations that do not make big bets and continuously evolve are the ones that fail.

Last month, YouTube star Casey Neistat -- hired by Zucker on the recommendation of his teenage son -- abruptly walked away from CNN less than two years after CNN reportedly paid more than $20 million for his video-sharing startup Beme. Back in March 2017, Neistat appeared on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter with Zucker and three of the networks biggest stars: Jake Tapper, Anthony Bourdain and W. Kamau Bell.

Now Neistat is gone and CNNs virtual reality productions and Snapchat efforts will be downsized, according to the Vanity Fair report, while CNNs MoneyStream app is expected to be scuttled.

CNN will also reorganize a team that focuses on digital companions to various original programs, such as Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown and This is Life with Lisa Ling. CNN did not immediately respond when asked if anyone with a byline will be let go.

Vanity Fair reports that cuts will also hit CNNs CNN Money vertical, part of which is its vocal team of media reporters. The media group, led by former New York Times reporter Brian Stelter, has been the most aggressive at CNN when it comes to opposing President Trump. Its unclear if the media team will be affected by the cutbacks to CNN Money.

Stelter used to be a top-notch media reporter. Now, it's like he thinks his route to stardom is paved by attacking Trump. He's obsessed with claiming Trump is mentally ill and talking about Trump's removal under the 25th Amendment. That's not journalism. It's activism, Media Research Center Vice President Dan Gainor told Fox News.

Gainor suggested that CNNs hard turn left in the last year -- with Zucker pursuing an anti-Trump programming strategy -- may be impacting its digital bottom line.

The reality is that the media business is changing rapidly and few organizations are handling it well. Two key CNN competitors -- Vice and BuzzFeed -- are having significant problems. Instead of journalists desperately trying to be cool and edgy, maybe a few traditional outlets might try neutral journalism, Gainor said.

University of Florida Master of Arts in Mass Communication Program director Andrew Selepak, Ph.D feels that CNN made a common mistake in the digital landscape by focusing too much on where their audience isnt located.

Their digital coverage has not produced the revenue needed to maintain the staff costs they are spending. CNNs problem is that they have a limited digital audience and their ventures into Snapchat have not produced the revenue to justify the cost, Selepak told Fox News.

Selepak explained that CNNs audience skews older and young people who consume digital news head to places like VICE and other outlets that focused on digital earlier.

The problem for CNN is that in making cuts to digital, they are thinking short-term. The older audience that watches CNN is only getting older, while younger audiences who dont buy into the CNN digital brand while they are young, never will, Selepak said.

Analysts commenting on the expected lay-offs speculated that CNN is trimming down its bloated digital spending in anticipation of parent company Time Warners expected acquisition by AT&T, which may have less patience for Zuckers free-spending ways. The acquisition is currently being challenged in court by the Justice Department.

AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson didnt exactly give Zucker his full support when speaking about the networks brass once the deal is approved by the Justice Departments antitrust division.

Were paying a premium to get Time Warner, and when you pay a big premium, the priority is to not screw it up CNNs doing quite well, and the priority is to keep management teams in place, Stephenson said. There will invariably be changes, but the hope is to keep the team in place.CNN politics reporter and editor-at-large Chris Cillizza used an emotional story about a mother who lost her son to the opioid epidemic as political fodder against President Trump in a Monday morning tweet.

Fox & Friends featured a segment about Sue Kruczek, who joined the morning show to explain why she sent a letter to the president detailing her sons opioid overdose. She lost her son four years ago when he was 20 years old.

Through our broken hearts, we wanted to show the president our love, Kruczek said before reading an excerpt of the letter she sent Trump.

I can walk away the lucky one now. I was privileged to be Nicks mom for 20 years and I got to hear, I love you, Mom, every single day, a teary-eyed Kruczek read from the letter on live television.

The president was apparently watching the interview, or at least informed of the tragedy, and took to Twitter to offer kind words for Kruczek.

Thank you to Sue Kruczek, who lost her wonderful and talented son Nick to the Opioid scourge, for your kind words while on @foxandfriends. We are fighting this terrible epidemic hard, Trump tweeted on Monday morning. Nick will not have died in vain!

Cillizza quoted the presidents tweet and mocked him for watching television.

But I dont get to watch much television. Primarily because of documents. -- Donald Trump, Cillizza wrote.

Back in November, Trump told reporters that he doesnt get to watch much television because he spends so much time reading documents. I actually read much more -- I read you people much more than I watch television, he told reporters on Air Force One at the time.

CNN Worldwide President Jeff Zucker has seemingly installed an anti-Trump programming strategy at the increasingly liberal network. Anchors Anderson Cooper, Don Lemon, Chris Cuomo, Brooke Baldwin and Senior White House Correspondent Jim Acosta are some of the networks stars who have been vocal about their disdain for the president. This past weekend, CNN was slammed for publishing a glowing puff piece about North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns sister appearing at the Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea  with a headline claiming she was stealing the show.

Some observers think CNN is now the official cable news leader in anti-Trump content. Media Research Center Vice President Dan Gainor called Zuckers network the TV home for the resistance, while others criticize CNN for failing to admit what it has become.

It seems to me that MSNBC sort of owns its own liberalness in that they don't shy away from it, while CNN still makes this attempt to call themselves unbiased despite their coverage often being slanted, Mediaite columnist Joseph Wulfsohn told Fox News.

Meanwhile, President Trump has vowed to fight the opioid crisis that is plaguing America, regularly saying, We will prevail. Cillizza criticizes Trump on a regular basis, often calling him a hypocrite, and he recently accused the president of spending his day watching taped episodes of the Fox News morning show.

Cillizzas claim to fame is that Trump once called him one of the dumber and least respected of the political pundits, which the CNN star quotes on his Twitter bio.Dakota Johnson stars as Anastasia Steele for the third and final time in "Fifty Shades Freed," but the actress admitted in a recent interview that shooting the over-the-top sex scenes in the film was anything but sexy.

"No, it's never easy. It's not casual and it's not fun. It never got easy," Johnson told Marie Claire. Despite several years of filming sex scenes with her co-star, Jamie Dornan, the actress said the scenes were always an awkward and strategically planned out process.

"Jamie mostly had an advisor that was on set for the first film, not so much for the second. Then we just had people who specialized in knowing how things work, like how to use certain tools and toys. There's a certain method. It's very intricate and the details are really important," Johnson explained. "The rules are also really important. We didn't want to go make a movie about something we didn't research to the bone. So to really honor the BDSM community, and we did it the right way."

The actress even admitted that she and her co-star sometimes resorted to liquid courage to film.

"Most of [our preparation] is just really figuring out exactly how were are going to accomplish the scene beforehand  so that there's not a lot of waiting around while we're both vulnerable. But, if something is very, very difficult, it's sometimes necessary to have a shot of something strong beforehand.

Especially before sex scenes that involved being blindfolded.

Johnson said one of the most difficult "Freed" scenes to shoot was when her character's legs and arms were handcuffed to a gate while blindfolded.

"It was kind of shocking because I didn't realize that no matter how prepared or rehearsed I was, when your senses are taken away like that, you can't control the way your nervous system will react. So it was really tricky to navigate that scene. It was kind of difficult," the actress said of the experience.

But the most unsexy and least glamorous part of shooting the steamy "Fifty Shades" scenes? The glued on underwear.

"Oh yeah, Jamie's little pouch," Johnson recalled. "It's super not glamorousit's really unsexy. He wore that, and I had these sort of strapless thongs that had glue on them. It's not glue, but it's sticky. They're, like, basically if it were a nipple pastie, but underwear. But it's only sticky at the top, it's not sticky the whole way. It would also come off because the adhesive would wear out, so then they would superglue it to my body so that it wouldn't fall off. And I would wear two of them. It's not painful, I mean, it's barely anything. But I guess you have some sense of being covered. It's f---ing bizarre."CNN star Jake Tapper appeared to troll his own network on Sunday night when he tweeted against media members who hate American leaders more than they hate the Kim Jong Un regime on the heels of CNN being mocked for a glowing puff piece about Kim Jong Uns sister.

If you hate US leaders more than you hate the Kim Jong Un regime, you really need to read up on North Korea, Tapper wrote. He also attached three links to websites that highlight various human rights violations that North Koreans face on a regular basis.

The dictators sister, Kim Yo Jong, appeared at the Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, and CNN reported over the weekend that she was stealing the show. The article, published Saturday afternoon, began with these cooing words about the woman who gave South Korean President Moon Jae-in an invite to visit North Korea:

If diplomatic dance were an event at the Winter Olympics, Kim Jong Uns younger sister would be favored to win gold. With a smile, a handshake and a warm message in South Koreas presidential guest book, Kim Yo Jong has struck a chord with the public just one day into the Pyeongchang Games.

CNN did not immediately respond when asked if Tapper was referring to his own network. CNN did not immediately make Tapper available for comment.

The controversial article barely referenced the North Korean regime's murderous ways -- and critics called out CNN for it. Still, despite the almost-immediate backlash from people on both sides of the political aisle, CNN has not taken down its story.

Tapper also retweeted a message from CNN contributor and New York Post columnist Salena Zito that said, I am deeply saddened by how my profession has normalized and glamorized this murderous regime And then we wonder why no one trusts us.

CNNs pro-Kim Yo Jong story was widely panned by media members on both sides of the political aisle. She is an increasingly prominent figure in her brothers government and the first member of the Norths ruling family to visit the South since the end of the 1950-53 Korean War.

The New York Times, NBC and Reuters are among other news organizations that were criticized for glorifying North Korea over the weekend as the Pyeongchang Games kicked off, but Tapper was presumably aware of the backlash CNN had already received when he sent his tweet.

Followers took notice and the comments on Tappers tweet are filled with messages urging the State of the Union host to inform his CNN colleagues that Kim Yo Jong shouldnt be glorified.

When Fox News reached out for comment, CNN would not say whether it would remove the story or discipline any editors over the controversial article.

Fox News Frank Miles contributed to this report.Former Glee star Mark Sallings death certificate was released on Monday with details surrounding his suicide in late January.

The Los Angeles County Coroners Office released the certificate to TMZ, which reports that the official cause of death for the 35-year-old actor as asphyxia by hanging. It also confirms that Salling hanged himself from a tree in the woods near a riverbed in Sunland, Calif.

The outlet noted that it still did not have toxicology results from Sallings autopsy, which would show whether or not he had any alcohol or drugs in his system prior to the suicide.

As previously reported, Salling pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography in October 2017 after police found more than 50,000 images on his computer. He was awaiting sentencing on March 7, where he was facing four to seven years behind bars.

Following his death, United States District Judge Otis D. Wright signed a dismissal of his case. As part of his guilty plea, he could have been forced to pay each victim of the case $50,000 in restitution had they requested it. Now, theyll need to sue his estate for the money.

Salling was best known for playing bad-boy Noah Puck Puckerman on the Fox series Glee.John Krasinski is ready for Jim and the rest of the "The Office" gang to make a comeback.

Oh my God, are you kidding? Id love to get that gang back together, the actor said on Monday's episode of Ellen.

The show, which originally starred Krasinski, Steve Carrell, Mindy Kaling and Jenna Fischer, has been rumored to be making a TV comeback.

But not all of the castmates from the hit series have been informed about the buzzed about rumor.

"I did hear that, on the Internet," the actor who played Jim on the show said when Ellen DeGeneres asked him about the rumored reboot. "Guess who didn't get a call? Me.

"What does that say?" he mused. "NBC is like 'You know who didn't like? Jim.'"

Krasinski feigned tears and rushed DeGeneres, "Go to commercial."

He isn't the only star to say he's unaware of the reported revival.

I dont know anything about The Office revival, Fischer admitted back in January at the Television Critics Associations Winter Press Tour. I know as much as anyone else.

As for whether shed return as Pam, she said she hasnt been asked.

I think thats for networks to figure out if I were to be asked, but I havent been approached about it, I dont want to think about it, she said but clarified her love for her original 'Office' character.

But I love Pam. Oh my God I love Pam.

Currently, Fischer stars in ABC's new series "Splitting Up Together" and Clint Eastwood's action flick "15:17 to Paris."

Reports that NBC is looking to revive the popular series for a limited run began in December and have also stated star Steve Carrell doesnt plan to participate. The Office ran from 2005 to 2013.

Fox News' Leora Arnowitz contributed to this report.Reese Witherspoon often feels afraid.

In a new interview with Marie Claire, the actress opened up about her insecurities and how she copes with the "little creature" she calls fear.

I see [fear] as this little creature that lives in my life all the time, and I can either pay it attention and not get anything done or I can march ahead and ignore it, Witherspoon said. Sometimes I just have to jump two feet into a cold pool and go, OK, I believe in myself enough, I know I work hard. I know I can always bet on myself."

Over the past few months, the "Wrinkle In Time" actress has been vulnerable after revealing to the world that she was sexually assaulted by a director while on the set of the film when she was 16 years old.

I have my own experiences that have come back to me very vividly and I find it really hard to sleep, hard to think, hard to communicate a lot of the feelings that Ive been having about anxiety, honest, the guilt for not speaking up earlier," Witherspoon told women at the annual Elle Women in Hollywood back in October. [I feel] true disgust at the director who assaulted me when I was 16 years old and anger at the agents and the producers who made me feel that silence was a condition of my employment."

Following her revelation, in the wake of the #MeToo movement, the actress sat down with fellow stars Natalie Portman, America Ferrera, Tracee Ellis Ross and Shonda Rhimes to discuss Time's Up and being a woman in Hollywood on CBS "Sunday Morning."

Witherspoon spoke to her friend and "Wrinkle In Time" co-star, Oprah, and said, "As you can see I'm very emotional about it but I keep going back. Somebody sent me this Elie Wiesel quote that said, 'Silence helps the tormentors. It doesn't help the tormented, and neutrality helps the oppressors not the oppressed.' And there's moments that you have to evaluate whether silence is going to be your only option and in certain times that was our only option, but now is not that time."

Currently, Witherspoon is in the process of returning to television in her highly anticipated show with long-time friend Jennifer Aniston.

Its a show about women in media  the morning news in particular, she explained to Marie Claire.

According to People, the upcoming show, which is produced by both actresses, is slated to be one first shows produced by Apple and will be Aniston's first return to the small screen since her hit '90s comedy, "Friends," where Witherspoon guest-starred as Aniston's little sister.Molly Shannon has only positive things to say about Sarah Jessica Parker.

ET talked to the "Divorce" actress at Christian Siriano's Fall/ Winter 2018 runway show during New York Fashion Week on Saturday night, where she opened up about working with Parker, who was recently very pointedly called out as "cruel" by her former "Sex and the City" co-star Kim Cattrall on Instagram.

"I didn't read about that," Shannon said regarding Cattrall's post, "but I know for me, Sarah is just so supportive and so wonderful and we just get along so well. It doesn't really feel like work because we have so much in common, and she loves funny women and is just so genuinely supportive and kind, and like a 'girls' girl.' So, I just feel lucky that I get to work with her."

Shannon, who play's Parker's character's friend on the HBO show -- now entering its second season -- also gushed about the experience.

"I just feel grateful, I think television is hard and so many times you never know if it's going to work or not, so I always just enjoy it for as long as it's on," she shared. "And I feel really lucky getting to work with Sarah Jessica Parker, she's true Hollywood royalty, and Thomas Haden Church and our amazing writers. It's just fun! For me, it's like a dream job I love, I'm really enjoying myself!"

Cattrall, who thanked her "Sex and the City" colleagues after her brother, Chris Cattrall, died last week, went after Parker on Instagram on Saturday with a fiery caption on a pic that read, "I don't need your love or support at this tragic time @sarahjessicaparker."

"My Mom asked me today, 'When will that @sarahjessicaparker, that hypocrite, leave you alone?' Your continuous reaching out is a painful reminder of how cruel you really were then and now," Cattrall continued. "Let me make this VERY clear. (If I havent already) You are not my family. You are not my friend. So Im writing to tell you one last time to stop exploiting our tragedy in order to restore your nice girl persona."

Before Cattrall's Instagram call out, ET was with Parker on Thursday, who elaborated on her decision to reach out to her former colleague despite their strained relationship.

"If somebody in your life, whether you're in touch with them or not, [is] suffering for any reason, it's involuntary that you want to convey condolences or sadness or just let someone know you're thinking about them," the 52-year-old actress explained.A Texas mother of two died Sunday from flu complications after reportedly deciding that the $116 medication to treat the virus was too costly.

Heather Holland, a second-grade teacher at Ikard Elementary School in Weatherford, Texas, died following complications of flu, leaving behind her husband Frank Holland and two children, a daughter, 10, and a son, 7.

She reportedly started to feel sick a week ago and was going to pick up flu medication. Her husband said she decided not to purchase the medication because she thought the $116 price tag was too high, according to the Weatherford Democrat.

She wouldn't go get medicine because she's a mama. Mamas are tough. She just kept going. She had a job; she had kids," Holland's pastor, Clark Bosher, told Fox 4. "I think any mom does that. I don't think she is being irresponsible. I don't think she thought she was that sick. It happened so quick."

The husband picked up the drugs himself on Thursday after finding out she skipped on them, but it was too late and she ended up in the intensive care unit at a hospital on Friday.

Friday night, things escalated and she ended up in the ICU, he told the outlet. "The doctors got the blood cultures back and they had to put her on dialysis early Saturday.

She died Sunday morning. I have to be strong for the kids but its still surreal, it hasnt all set in, Frank Holland said. Weve been together a long time, over half my life. Shes my best friend, my soulmate, my everything.

He described her as a passionate teacher who loved helping people, helping the kids, and the kids loved her. On the schools website page, Heather Holland wrote: I am really enjoying my kiddos. We are working hard on reading, writing and learning to quickly compose and decompose numbers.

TRAGIC FACES OF THE DEADLY US FLU OUTBREAK

This seasons deadly flu season has reportedly taken the lives of hundreds of Americans across the country.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention acting Director Dr. Anne Schuchat said the center has seen increased influenza-like activity, more hospitalizations and tragically, more flu-associated deaths in children and adults.

Over 60 children have died from the virus this season and there are no signs the spread of the flu will soon to cease. The state of Louisiana, is on track to having some 1,000 flu-related deaths this season, according to medical officials.A spiritual and wellness retreat aimed toward black women has become a major topic of debate after Vice News recently published a video saying that it bans white people from attending, and in which its owner goes further in stating that white people shouldnt have passports.

The Women of Color Healing Retreat, which was founded in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, in 2014 by Brooklyn ex-pat and a former health care facilitator Satya X, brings women of color together for between a week and 10 days of yoga and meditation as a way to unwind and disconnect from the psychological trauma of systemic racism.

NO MEN ARE ALLOWED ON THIS EXOTIC WELLNESS ISLAND IN FINLAND

Its necessary to have a safe space for ourselves, Satya X told Fox News. People need to know about this. Its about black people healing black people.

Satya X said that since the segment aired in early February on HBOs Vice News Tonight she has noticed a ramping up of the conversation  both positive and negative  about her retreat, especially regarding her more controversial comments, like her call to ban white people from traveling outside the U.S. and that she does not associate with white people. She told Fox News that she has no comment to make on what she said about passports for white people besides what she said to Vice News.

Conservative news outlets such as the Daily Caller and BizPac Review quickly picked up on the Vice News segment, noting that one of the women interviewed in the piece, Alexis Bromley, stereotyped all white Republicans as racist.

Bromley stereotypes white Republicans as racists, saying that Nebraska is a red state, so you just dont know who you interact with on a daily basis, if they believe that you are lesser or inferior," the BizPac Review article states. As for racists, the retreat founder is [Satya X], who believes that white people shouldnt be given passports because of how destructive they are. If theres a silver lining here, its that Andrea X, seen below, is an expatriate who no longer lives in the U.S.

When questioned about how the motivations behind her retreats could be perceived the same as calls in the United States from white supremacists groups and neo-Nazis for a white-only nation or space, Satya X said that she does not believe that reverse racism exists, and that, unlike white supremacist groups, her work is built on love, not hate.

This retreat has nothing to do with white people, she added. This retreat is a space built on a foundation of black love.

Besides yoga and meditation, the Women of Color Healing Retreat also features hiking, surfing and vegan meals away from  as Satya X describes  the micro-aggressions and passive-aggressiveness that exists in the U.S.

Along with running and funding the retreats primarily by herself, Satya X is also working on a program to teach yoga and meditation to black children in Brooklyn, and she has created another program to grow fruits, vegetables and herbs at the local schools in nearby Cahuita, Costa Rica.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

This is so much more than the retreats, she said. Whatever anyone can donate, I would appreciate because Im funding everything now.NEW You can now listen to Fox News articles!

Former Obama Attorney General Eric Holder raised eyebrows last week when he said that he may run for office, as in the Oval Office, and hed make his final decision by the end of the year. Given the trail of abuse and misconduct he left in his wake at the Justice Department, the opposing ads pretty much write themselves.

His time in the Obama administration was plagued with corruption that left a stain on the Justice Department, and he resigned with a dark cloud of scandal hovering over him.

Holder is the first Cabinet appointee to be held in contempt of Congress for not turning over documents relating to the Departments Fast and Furious scandal. The scandal permitted the sale of assault weapons to drug cartels in Mexico as a way to supposedly track them.

However, it was later discovered from internal communications that it was all just a front to win political points in the gun debate. Holder thought if the Obama administration could devise a dangerous enough situation, then they would be in a position to demand more gun laws.

While they were busy trying to score political points with assault weapons, people died. People like Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry, who was killed with one of the almost 2,000 guns the Justice Department sold, but then failed to keep track of through the program.

Holder tarnished our Justice Department with reckless discrimination, questionable judgement and outright lawlessness.

Holders Justice Department was also embroiled in an IRS political persecution scheme that purposely targeted conservative and Tea Party groups who applied for tax-exempt status. Their applications were stalled, sometimes for years, while IRS agents probed for additional information that was inappropriate and out of the ordinary. Last year, the IRS admitted to the wrongdoing in court and publicly apologized.

However, in 2015, the Obama Justice Department, headed by Holder until Loretta Lynch replaced him in April of that year, announced they would not prosecute anyone at the IRS for the scandal. Their reasoning? Apparently after investigating they said no evidence was uncovered that any IRS official acted based on political, discriminatory, corrupt or other inappropriate motives that would support a criminal prosecution.

But of course there was no evidence, because the IRS destroyed countless hard drives containing the evidence. The apparent crime was bad enough, but Holders cover-up was even worse.

Recently, Holder, possibly getting his talking points in order for a potential presidential run, criticized the Trump administration for apologizing to conservative groups targeted by the IRS under President Obama. According to Holder, That apology was unnecessary, unfounded and inconsistent, it seems to me, with the responsibilities that somebody who would seek to lead the Justice Department should have done.

Maybe somebody should tell Mr. Holder the IRS already admitted they targeted conservatives, and Obama cronies can stop covering for them now. Former IRS official Lois Lerner publicly apologized and pleaded the Fifth Amendment when Congress brought her in for questioning.

She couldnt be prosecuted though, because the IRS destroyed her emails with all of those hard drives. Nothing to see here, right Eric?

Also on Attorney General Holders watch, large companies could make settlement payouts to groups not affiliated with their cases. President Trumps Justice Department put an end to this last year, as the payments were thought to help liberal organizations.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte, R-Va., released emails from the Justice Department last year which showed they had a say in who the money went to, and they may have once again discriminated against conservatives by ensuring conservative groups didnt receive settlements.

Eric Holder has a history of scandal and corruption that will follow him into any public office that he pursues. He tarnished our Justice Department with reckless discrimination, questionable judgement and outright lawlessness.

However, if Holder wants to run, bring it on. Hes given Republicans all the campaign material they need.NEW You can now listen to Fox News articles!

One of the most distressing recent developments in American government is the trend toward virtually everyone and everything being politicized.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation was a notable exception to this. During the 27 years I served there, I never once witnessed political bias that affected in any way our ability to conduct fair and honest investigations based on the rule of law and the integrity that it demands.

But times have changed. The memo recently released by House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes, R-Calif., reveals yet more shocking details about the failed leadership and judgement at the highest echelons of the FBI concerning the flawed investigation into Hillary Clinton and the farcical investigation of Donald Trump.

This should trouble every American, because the ability of the FBI to effectively protect our nation and citizens is directly connected to the regard and respect that the American people have for the bureau.

The great shame of this scandal is that the embarrassing actions of a few have sullied the reputation of the entire FBI and the thousands of dedicated FBI field agents who have nothing to do with this mess and who continue to do their jobs with exceptional courage, integrity and dedication.

During the years I served, the FBI neutralized Soviet spy rings, dismantled La Cosa Nostra and other organized crime networks, and pursued the FALN (a Puerto Rican terrorist group) and Weather Underground responsible for waves of bank robberies and bombings. Today the FBI is at the forefront of countering rampant cybercrime, radical Islamic terrorism and an array of other threats.

One of the FBIs most important tools to protect the homeland and investigate crimes  especially in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks  is its ability to lawfully intercept communications through wiretaps and other means.

If Congress and the courts believe the FBI is abusing this surveillance power, they may become less willing to allow the FBI to use it. This would gravely jeopardize our national security.

But that could now happen. The Nunes memo revealed that in 2016, senior FBI leaders and Department of Justice officials used a discredited intelligence document (the infamous Steele dossier) in making their case to a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) Court that it should authorize surveillance of Trump campaign official Carter Page.

Heres what we know about this Steele dossier: its research was financed by the Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee. It author, Christopher Steele, was a known antagonist of then-candidate Trump.

FBI leadership knew all this at the time, and yet the Steele dossier (a collection of memos) appears to be the primary basis upon which they hoped to convince a FISA Court that they had both probable cause and national security grounds to surveil Page, a U.S. citizen.

Its a travesty of justice and it begs the question of why then-FBI Director James Comey and others would take such a clearly irresponsible step.

We cant know what was in their hearts and heads, but its obvious to me that the original sin that allowed this to happen was the Obama administrations weaponization of the Justice Department and U.S. intelligence agencies for political ends.

I say its obvious because around the same time the Obama Justice Department was effectively inventing criminal charges against several members of the Trump campaign, it was ignoring the widespread and longstanding criminality of Hillary Clinton and her political operation.

The investigation into Clintons private server violated most every investigative standard the FBI is supposed to follow. For starters, Comey never empaneled a grand jury, which has the power to compel testimony and the release of records.

In addition, broad immunity was granted to those close to Hillary Clinton, even though many offered little to no information of value.

Comey also prepared a memo exonerating Clinton weeks before she was even interviewed.

And then of course, there was the infamous Phoenix airport meeting: when then-Attorney General Loretta Lynch violated every standard of propriety and common sense by meeting in private with former President Bill Clinton while his wife was under active investigation.

Alone, any of these missteps could be explained away as a mistake or a coincidence. But together, they paint a more troubling picture of a small group of top officials at the FBI and Justice Department that sacrificed their integrity and politicized an institution that must always operate above politics.

The great shame of this scandal is that the embarrassing actions of a few have sullied the reputation of the entire FBI and the thousands of dedicated FBI field agents who have nothing to do with this mess and who continue to do their jobs with exceptional courage, integrity and dedication.

For the FBIs reputation to be restored, we need accountability from the leaders who failed the bureau and a thorough accounting of how and why this great American institution lost its way.NEW You can now listen to Fox News articles!

For law enforcement, Congress and even journalists, exposing misdeeds is like peeling an onion. Each layer you remove gets you closer to the truth.

So it is with the scandalous behavior of the FBI during its probe into whether President Trumps campaign conspired with Russia in 2016. One layer at a time, were learning how flawed and dirty that probe was.

A top layer involves the texts between FBI lawyer Lisa Page and her married lover, Peter Strzok, the lead agent on the Hillary Clinton e-mail probe. They casually mention an insurance policy in the event Trump won the election and a plan for Strzok to go easy on Clinton because she probably would be their next boss.

Those exchanges, seen in the light of subsequent events, lead to a reasonable conclusion that the fix was in among then-Director James Comeys team to hurt Trump and help Clinton.

Another layer involves the declassified House memo, which indicates the FBI and Justice Department depended heavily on the unverified Russian dossier about Trump to get a warrant to spy on Carter Page, an American citizen and briefly a Trump adviser.

The House memo also reveals that Comey and others withheld from the secret surveillance court key partisan facts that would have cast doubt on the dossier. Officials never revealed to the judges that the document was paid for by Clintons campaign and the Democratic National Committee or that Christopher Steele, the former British spy who compiled the dossier, said he was desperate that Donald Trump not get elected.

For Clinton, creating a cloud over Trumps presidency and helping to put the nation through continuing turmoil is a victory of sorts. America is fortunate its her only victory.

A third layer of the onion involves the revelations in the letter GOP Sens. Charles Grassley and Lindsey Graham wrote to the Justice Department. They urge a criminal investigation into whether Steele lied to the FBI about how much and when he fed the dossier to the anti-Trump media.

The letter is compelling in showing that Steele said one thing under oath to a British court and something different to the FBI. The contradictions matter because the agency relied on Steeles credibility in both the FISA applications and its actual investigation. Strangely, even after it fired him for breaking its rule forbidding media contact, the FBI continued to praise his credibility in court.

If that were all the senators letter accomplished, it would be enough. But it does much more.

It also reveals that two former journalists linked to Clinton, separately identified as the odious Sidney Blumenthal and a man named Cody Shearer, created and gave a State Department official additional unverified allegations against Trump.

The official passed those documents to Steele, who passed them to the FBI, which reportedly saw them as further evidence that Trump worked with Russians. But as Grassley, head of the Judiciary Committee, and Graham write, It is troubling enough that the Clinton Campaign funded Mr. Steeles work, but that these Clinton associates were contemporaneously feeding Mr. Steele allegations raises additional concerns about his credibility.

The State Department official involved in the episode, Jonathan Winer, wrote an Op-Ed in the Washington Post Friday in which he confessed to the senators chronology while offering a benign description of his motives. Winer also admitted he shared all the unverified allegations from the Clinton hitmen with other State Department officials.

There are many more layers of the onion to peel, but heres where we are now: It increasingly appears that the Clinton machine was the secret, original source of virtually all the allegations about Trump and Russia that led to the FBI investigation.

In addition, the campaign and its associates, including Steele, were behind the explosion of anonymously sourced media reports during the fall of 2016 about that investigation.

Thus, the Democratic nominee paid for and created allegations against her Republican opponent, gave them to law enforcement, then tipped friendly media to the investigation. And it is almost certain FBI agents supporting Clinton were among the anonymous sources.

In fact, the Clinton connections are so fundamental that there probably would not have been an FBI investigation without her involvement.

That makes hers a brazen work of political genius  and perhaps the dirtiest dirty trick ever played in presidential history. Following her manipulation of the party operation to thwart Bernie Sanders in the primary, Clinton is revealed as relentlessly ruthless in her quest to be president.

The only thing that went wrong is that she lost the election. And based on what we know now, her claims about Trump were false.

Of the charges against four men brought by special counsel Robert Mueller, none involves helping Russia interfere with the election.

And neither the FBI nor Mueller has vouched for the truthfulness of the Blumenthal and Shearer claims or the Steele dossier. Instead, the dossier faces defamation lawsuits in the US and England from several people named in it.

In fairness, one person besides Steele has been cited as justification for the FBI probe. George Papadopoulos, a bit but ambitious player in the Trump orbit, met with a professor in Europe early in 2016 who told him the Kremlin had Clintons private e-mails.

In May 2016, Papadopoulos told the story to an Australian diplomat and two months later, in July, the Australian government alerted the FBI.

However, a full timeline convincingly points to Steele as the initial spark. He was hired by a Clinton contractor in June of 2016, and filed his first allegations against Trump on June 20. Two weeks later, on July 5, he met with an FBI agent in London, The Washington Post reported, and filed three more allegations that month, including one about Carter Page.

At any rate, it is certain that Steele and other Clinton operators provided all the allegations about Trump himself that the FBI started with and that Mueller inherited.

For Clinton, creating a cloud over Trumps presidency and helping to put the nation through continuing turmoil is a victory of sorts. America is fortunate its her only victory.

To read more Michael Goodwin on The New York Post click here.Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley accused the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, Adam Schiff, of making a "tired and baseless" claim that Grassley was trying to undermine special counsel Robert Mueller's Russia investigation.

In an interview with CBS' "Face the Nation," Schiff, D-Calif., accused Grassley, R-Iowa, of being "part of the same effort along with [House Intelligence Committee chairman Devin Nunes] to try to put the FBI and Bob Mueller's investigation on trial."

Last week, Grassley and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., released a criminal referral they had sent to the Justice Department earlier this year asking for an investigation into Christopher Steele, the former British spy who compiled the so-called "Trump-Russia dossier."

Grassley and Graham said they found evidence that either Steele lied to the FBI, or classified documents supporting government surveillance of former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page contained false statements.

Late Sunday, Grassley spokesman Taylor Foy fired back at Schiff, saying in a statement that the Steele referral "says not one word critical of Mueller."

"If Schiff (or anyone else) is going to claim that it is Grassleys intent to undermine the Mueller probe, they should back it up with actual evidence or retract it and apologize for questioning the motives of their colleagues without any basis whatsoever," Foy said. "Otherwise, theyre only exposing their own biases."

In a memo released earlier this month, Nunes and other House Intelligence Committee Republicans accused the FBI and Justice Department of not telling the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court enough about Steele's anti-Trump sentiments or that his work was funded in part by Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign and the Democratic National Committee.

The Democrats on the committee, led by Schiff, have claimed that the memo "cherry-picked" details. They noted federal law enforcement officials had informed the court about the political origins of Steele's work, some of his information was corroborated by the FBI and other evidence was used to get the warrant.

President Trump blocked the release of a Democratic rebuttal to the GOP memo Friday, citing national security concerns. The president asserted the Democratic memo was a trap meant to "blame the White House for lack of transparency" and urged the Democrats to "re-do and send back in proper form!"

Fox News' Catherine Herridge and The Associated Press contributed to this report.President Trump signed an emergency declaration for American Samoa Sunday evening after the South Pacific islands were hit by Tropical Storm Gita last week.

Trump's declaration allows the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to coordinate disaster relief efforts.

Tropical Storm Gita caused some damage to buildings and widespread power outages early Saturday, a day after making its nearest pass to the islands. The port and airport in Pago Pago were closed Friday because of the storm.

Hanna Butler, a spokeswoman for Fiji-based Red Cross Pacific, told Reuters that approximately 300 people had evacuated Apia, the capital of Samoa, to escape flooding but were now returning to their homes. Butler added that many people were without clean, running water.

American Samoa is located about 2,550 miles southwest of Hawaii.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.President Trump's recent budget moves could complicate his relationship with the House Freedom Caucus and other fiscal conservatives, with his recent signing of a $400 billion spending deal and a budget blueprint that contains rising deficits.

The swamp won, and the American taxpayer lost, Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, a founding member of the caucus, said on "Fox News Sunday."

While these lawmakers largely blame congressional leaders for the free-spending attitude, the gloomy outlook is a turnaround from 2016.

The 2016 Trump campaign chant of drain the swamp was like a melody to members of the small-but-influential Freedom Caucus, started in 2015 to push House leadership to a more fiscally and socially conservative agenda.

Trump, in fact, made Freedom Caucus co-founder and then-South Carolina GOP Rep. Mick Mulvaney one of his first Cabinet-level nominations, as director of the Office of Management and Budget. This weekend, Jordan still boasted that caucus Chairman Rep. Mark Meadows, R-N.C., is perhaps Trumps closest Capitol Hill ally.

I would argue our chairman, frankly, is probably the member closest to the president, closer than probably any other member in the House or the Senate, Jordan told Fox News Sunday.

But the deficit-heavy fiscal outlook is presenting challenges.

The two-year budget deal signed Friday by Trump raises the cap on military spending by roughly $160 billion. It also lifts the cap on domestic spending by about $128 billion and is projected to increase the federal deficit to roughly $1.2 trillion by fiscal 2019, which has roiled Freedom Caucus members and closely aligned groups including Tea Party activists and donors.

Further, the fiscal 2019 budget plan unveiled Monday no longer calls for balancing the budget over the next decade.

Mark Meckler, co-founder of Tea Party Patriots, said Monday that many hopeful-but-naive patriots believed D.C. would change under Donald Trump. Many thought he could drain the swamp without us. Friday morning painfully showed those same patriots that such a plan is nothing but fantasy.

However, Meckler, now president of the political activist group Citizens for Self-Governance, didnt heap all the blame on Trump or argue that he is creating such a divide.

I dont think there was ever an expectation that Trump was a conservative. He didnt run as one, said Meckler, adding that if House members, including those in the chambers conservative caucuses, had taken a stronger stance on fiscal responsibility, Trump would have followed.

Trump administration officials and Republican leaders of the GOP-controlled Congress argued that passing last week's budget deal was essential to protect soldiers and keep Americans safe -- and end a very-brief government shutdown.

House Speaker Paul Ryan argued that 80 U.S. service members were killed last year in accidents and training incidents, roughly four-times more than in combat.

Our government has no higher responsibility than to support our men and women who are in harms way, the Wisconsin Republican said hours before the voting on the bipartisan budget bill began last week. This budget agreement delivers on that commitment.  With better training and equipment, many of these deaths could have been prevented.

Jordan argued the House submitted a budget bill to the Senate that funded the military for a full year, only to have it laden with domestic spending to get Democrats votes.

Instead of standing firm, our leadership said  let's just spend more on everything, he said Sunday. Let's just grow government, give into the Democrats instead of  doing what the people elected us to do. They gave into the Democrats and we got this boondoggle that we passed.

Jenny Beth Martin, co-founder and national coordinator of the Tea Party Patriots, said Monday that fiscal conservatives were fully behind the presidents recent tax cuts and argued that the budget agreement alone might not be a problem.

However, she suggested that Trumps failure to repeal ObamaCare and plan to grant what she calls amnesty to illegal immigrants as part of upcoming immigration-reform negotiations could be a different story, particularly as Republicans try to keep control of Congress during this years elections.

The base could simply not vote, Martin said. They could simply say, Republicans didnt keep their promise. 

Jordan sees opportunity for Trump and conservatives to come together in the immigration debate, considering their preferred, hardline bill matches Trumps demands.

The bill by Virginia GOP Rep. Bob Goodlatte, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, includes money for border security; changing a federal immigration program from a lottery-based to merit-based one; ending so-called chain migration that allows people to bring extended family into the country; and a legislative solution to the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program that protects hundreds of thousands of immigrants brought into the U.S. illegally as children.

A big debate [is] coming, the debate on immigration. And the Freedom Caucus is going to be in the middle of that, Jordan said. The legislation that is consistent with the mandate of the 2016 election.The National Portrait Gallery on Monday unveiled portraits of former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama  to a very mixed reception.

Even though Barack Obama praised Baltimore-based artist Amy Sherald for so spectacularly capturing the grace and beauty and intelligence and charm and hotness of the woman I love, many critics on social media slammed the rendition of the former first lady.

Their main question: Is that really her?

Michelle Obama is an elegant lady and the portrait looks nice. But clearly, the artist drew someone else, Dr. Eugene Gu, a health care columnist for The Hill, tweeted.

Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro tweeted, LOVE the new portrait of Michelle Obama -- and attached an explosively colorful painting of abstract art.

For the portrait, the former first lady was painted in grayscale  a charcoal color with taupe undertones. Shes seated, with her hair falling around her shoulders, in a bold floor-length dress.

While most agreed the image was striking, Twitter went to war over whether it looked anything like Michelle Obama. The verdict varied widely, from positive responses to confused reactions to concern that the portrait did not live up to the subject.

Ughdoes not do a powerful, beautiful woman justice, one user wrote.

If the first lady was disappointed in the portrait, she was far too gracious to let on.

After her portrait was unveiled, the former first lady said she was a little overwhelmed, to say the least.

She added, Im also thinking about all the young people, particularly girls and girls of color, who in years ahead will come to this place and they will look up, and they will see an image of someone who looks like them hanging on the wall.

Sherald, first-prize winner of the Portrait Gallerys 2016 Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition, beat out 2,500 other artists to paint Michelle Obama.

I paint American people, and I tell American stories through the paintings I create, Sherald said. Once my paintings are complete, the model no longer lives in the painting as themselves. I see something bigger, more symbolic, an archetype.

Michelle Obama described Sherald as a woman of extraordinary talent. Its thrilling to see her get the recognition she deserves.

Barack Obamas portrait was painted by Kehinde Wiley. It features a seven-foot portrait sitting in a field of flowers, including chrysanthemums, the official flower of Chicago; jasmine, a nod to Obamas childhood in Hawaii; and African blue lilies to symbolize Obamas late father who was from Kenya.

Both paintings were unveiled at the gallery, which is part of the Smithsonian group of museums. The gallery has a complete collection of presidential portraits.A redistricting group that is backed by former President Barack Obama and led by former attorney general Eric Holder raised more than $11 million last year and has set a new fundraising goal of $30 million to help their upcoming efforts to target Republicans in 12 states.

The National Democratic Redistricting Committee (NDRC), a D.C.-based organization founded in 2016 that is chaired by Holder, is dedicated to "enacting a comprehensive, multi-cycle Democratic Party redistricting strategy."

The group was formed in part due to Obama's resentment towards the House Republican majority during a portion of his presidency and claims that gerrymandering, which both parties partake in, has led to "disastrous" policies.

"These gerrymandered districts have had disastrous policy consequences, leading to some of the most right-wing legislation in decades both in Congress and at the state level, including assaults on women's health, suppressing the vote for people of color, failing to address climate change, and refusing to stand up to the epidemic of gun violence," the group's website states. "These policies don't reflect the majority of voters, but because Republicans have rigged the system in their favor, voters are limited in their ability to do anything about it."

NDRC reports raising a total of $11 million last year spread between its numerous entities that include the NDRC, the National Redistricting Foundation, and the National Redistricting Action Fund. Holder said the group has a goal of raising $30 million in 2018.

The NDRC, which first became politically active by pouring more than $1 million into Virginia's gubernatorial race last year to back Democrat Ralph Northam, now Virginia's governor, has set their sights on Republicans and initiatives in 12 states.

Click for more from The Washington Free Beacon.



1. U.S. acceptance of coexistence as the only alternative to atomic war.

2. U.S. willingness to capitulate in preference to engaging in atomic war.

3. Develop the illusion that total disarmament of the United States would be a demonstration of moral strength.

4. Permit free trade between all nations regardless of Communist affiliation and regardless of whether or not items could be used for war.

5. Extension of long-term loans to Russia and Soviet satellites.

6. Provide American aid to all nations regardless of Communist domination.

7. Grant recognition of Red China. Admission of Red China to the U.N.

8. Set up East and West Germany as separate states in spite of Khrushchev's promise in 1955 to settle the German question by free elections under supervision of the U.N.

9. Prolong the conferences to ban atomic tests because the United States has agreed to suspend tests as long as negotiations are in progress.

10. Allow all Soviet satellites individual representation in the U.N.

11. Promote the U.N. as the only hope for mankind. If its charter is rewritten, demand that it be set up as a one-world government with its own independent armed forces. (Some Communist leaders believe the world can be taken over as easily by the U.N. as by Moscow. Sometimes these two centers compete with each other as they are now doing in the Congo.)

12. Resist any attempt to outlaw the Communist Party.

13. Do away with all loyalty oaths.

14. Continue giving Russia access to the U.S. Patent Office.

15. Capture one or both of the political parties in the United States.

16. Use technical decisions of the courts to weaken basic American institutions by claiming their activities violate civil rights.

17. Get control of the schools. Use them as transmission belts for socialism and current Communist propaganda. Soften the curriculum. Get control of teachers' associations. Put the party line in textbooks.

18. Gain control of all student newspapers.

19. Use student riots to foment public protests against programs or organizations which are under Communist attack.

20. Infiltrate the press. Get control of book-review assignments, editorial writing, policymaking positions.

21. Gain control of key positions in radio, TV, and motion pictures.

22. Continue discrediting American culture by degrading all forms of artistic expression. An American Communist cell was told to "eliminate all good sculpture from parks and buildings, substitute shapeless, awkward and meaningless forms."

23. Control art critics and directors of art museums. "Our plan is to promote ugliness, repulsive, meaningless art."

24. Eliminate all laws governing obscenity by calling them "censorship" and a violation of free speech and free press.

25. Break down cultural standards of morality by promoting pornography and obscenity in books, magazines, motion pictures, radio, and TV.

26. Present homosexuality, degeneracy and promiscuity as "normal, natural, healthy."

27. Infiltrate the churches and replace revealed religion with "social" religion. Discredit the Bible and emphasize the need for intellectual maturity which does not need a "religious crutch."

28. Eliminate prayer or any phase of religious expression in the schools on the ground that it violates the principle of "separation of church and state."

29. Discredit the American Constitution by calling it inadequate, old-fashioned, out of step with modern needs, a hindrance to cooperation between nations on a worldwide basis.

30. Discredit the American Founding Fathers. Present them as selfish aristocrats who had no concern for the "common man."

31. Belittle all forms of American culture and discourage the teaching of American history on the ground that it was only a minor part of the "big picture." Give more emphasis to Russian history since the Communists took over.

32. Support any socialist movement to give centralized control over any part of the culture--education, social agencies, welfare programs, mental health clinics, etc.

33. Eliminate all laws or procedures which interfere with the operation of the Communist apparatus.

34. Eliminate the House Committee on Un-American Activities.

35. Discredit and eventually dismantle the FBI.

36. Infiltrate and gain control of more unions.

37. Infiltrate and gain control of big business.

38. Transfer some of the powers of arrest from the police to social agencies. Treat all behavioral problems as psychiatric disorders which no one but psychiatrists can understand.

39. Dominate the psychiatric profession and use mental health laws as a means of gaining coercive control over those who oppose Communist goals.

40. Discredit the family as an institution. Encourage promiscuity and easy divorce.

41. Emphasize the need to raise children away from the negative influence of parents. Attribute prejudices, mental blocks and retarding of children to suppressive influence of parents.

42. Create the impression that violence and insurrection are legitimate aspects of the American tradition; that students and special-interest groups should rise up and use united force to solve economic, political or social problems.

43. Overthrow all colonial governments before native populations are ready for self-government.

44. Internationalize the Panama Canal.

45. Repeal the Connally reservation so the United States cannot prevent the World Court from seizing jurisdiction over nations and individuals alike.Ex-national security adviser Susan Rice sent an unusual email to herself the day President Trump was sworn in to office documenting former President Barack Obama's guidance at a high-level meeting about how law enforcement should investigate Russian interference in the 2016 presidential race, two Republican senators said Monday.

According to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley and Sen. Lindsey Graham, the partially unclassified email was sent by Rice on Jan. 20, 2017 -- and appears to document a Jan. 5 meeting that included Obama, then-FBI Director James Comey, then-Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates, then-Vice President Joe Biden and Rice.

In the email, Obama's national security adviser wrote: President Obama began the conversation by stressing his continued commitment to ensuring that every aspect of this issue is handled by the Intelligence and law enforcement communities by the book. The president stressed that he is not asking about, initiating or instructing anything from a law enforcement perspective. He reiterated that our law enforcement team needs to proceed as it normally would by the book.

THE TRUMP DOSSIER: HOW A POLITICAL DOCUMENT MADE ITS WAY TO THE FBI

The email also appears to reflect Obama's guidance on sharing sensitive information with both the Russians and the incoming administration.

Rice wrote that Obama said "he wants to be sure that, as we engage with the incoming team, we are mindful to ascertain if there is any reason that we cannot share information fully as it relates to Russia."

She added, "The President asked Comey to inform him if anything changes in the next few weeks that should affect how we share classified information with the incoming team. Comey said he would."

Grassley, R-Iowa, and Graham, R-S.C., released the email Monday. They said they uncovered it as part of their oversight of the FBI and the Department of Justice, and claimed it raises new questions.

It strikes us as odd that, among your activities in the final moments on the final day of the Obama administration, you would feel the need to send yourself such an unusual email purporting to document a conversation involving President Obama and his interactions with the FBI regarding the Trump/Russia investigation, they wrote in a letter to Rice.

They added: In addition, despite your claim that President Obama repeatedly told Mr. Comey to proceed by the book, substantial questions have arisen about whether officials at the FBI, as well as at the Justice Department and the State Department, actually did proceed by the book.

The origins of the Russia meddling probe have come under mounting scrutiny on Capitol Hill, where Republicans are looking at how an unverified anti-Trump dossier was used to seek a surveillance warrant against Trump associate Carter Page in late 2016.

The senators asked Rice to answer questions about the email by Feb. 22.

According to the released email, the Jan. 5 meeting followed a briefing by the intelligence community on Russian hacking during the 2016 election. Grassley and Graham said the meeting included a discussion of the now-infamous dossier.

But one source familiar with the meeting said it had nothing to do with Steele or the dossier. That person said it was solely focused on whether the intelligence community and the FBI needed to be careful about what Russia conversations they had with the Trump transition team.

Fox News' Mike Emanuel and Catherine Herridge contributed to this report.Democratic National Committee Deputy Chair Keith Ellison attended a private dinner hosted by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in 2013, along with the head of the black nationalist group Nation of Islam, Louis Farrakhan.

First reported by The Wall Street Journal, Ellison, the Democratic congressman from Minnesota, also visited with Farrakhan in 2015.

Ellison attended the 2013 dinner with two other members of the Congressional Black CaucusReps. Andre Carson, D-Ind., and Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y. Rouhani invited Muslim leaders from around the U.S. to dinner after addressing the United Nations General Assembly.

The Nation of Islam website confirmed the attendance of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan to the dinner on Sept. 23, 2013 across the street from the U.N. headquarters in New York City. FinalCall.com, the Nation of Islams publication, confirmed Ellisons attendance with an article, and photos of Ellison and Farrakhan at the tables.

After the guests were hosted at a dinner, the Iranian president entered and engaged in warm discussion with guests, including Democratic congressmen Greg Meeks of New York, Keith Ellison of Minnesota, who is a Muslim, Final Call wrote on Oct. 2, 2013.

Iran has been listed by the U.S. government as a state sponsor of terrorism since 1984.

But the dinner was not the first time Ellison was associated with Farrakhan.

Ellison attended Farrakhans Million Man March in 1995, and even publicly defended Farrakhan  who has repeatedly made anti-semitic remarks, and has called Jews satanic  according to a report by the Daily Caller.

Ellison has attempted to distance himself from Farrakhan, especially during his run for DNC chair in 2016, writing an op-ed for The Washington Post, painting his relationship with Farrakhan as limited to the 1995 march.

But Farrakhan slammed Ellison, posting a video to Facebook saying that Ellison and Carson visited him in 2015.

Neither the DNC nor Ellisons office responded to Fox News request for comment.

Former White House press secretary, now Fox News contributor Ari Fleischer slammed the media for not covering the latest Ellison-Farrakhan development.

"Once again, no feeding frenzy by the media. Don't let anyone tell you the press is neutral. They're not. Their silence is deafening. Ellison Attended Private Dinner With Iranian President and Louis Farrakhan in 2013 via @freebeacon," Fleischer tweeted Monday.

The Congressional Black Caucus also has been tied to Farrakhan in recent months  especially with the surfacing of a photo taken in 2005, with then-Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill. smiling alongside him. A Final Call photographer, according to the Daily Caller, said he kept the photo hidden for 13 years at the request of the CBC in order to protect Obamas political career.

Just last week, Democratic Rep. Danny Davis of Illinois defended Farrakhan as an outstanding human being.

Farrakhans past extreme comments include praise for Adolf Hitler as a very great man, blaming Jews for the 9/11 attacks, and saying white people deserve to die.

I dont regard Louis Farrakhan as an aberration or anything, I regard him as an outstanding human being who commands a following of individuals who are learned and articulate and he plays a big role in the lives of thousands and thousands and thousands and thousands of people, Davis told the Daily Caller last week, and noted that it wouldnt be anything out of the ordinary for him to meet with Farrakhan.President Trump put underperforming federal workers on notice Monday, including in his $4 trillion budget plan a major overhaul for how hiring and firing is done in the D.C. bureaucracy.

Following on Trump's campaign promise to "drain the swamp," the plan calls for several big changes. This includes ending automatic pay hikes that kick in "irrespective of performance," changing retirement benefits and making it easier to fire bad employees and reward good ones.

The workforce and the workplace have evolved in recent decades. But the Government personnel system remains a relic of an earlier era. Federal workers themselves overwhelmingly agree in surveys that the existing system fails to reward the best performers or appropriately deal with the worst performers, a White House budget fact sheet reads, describing the plan as bringing the government in line with private-sector practices.

Trump previewed the plan in his first State of the Union address last month. During the speech, the president called on Congress to empower every Cabinet Secretary with the authority to reward good workers and to remove federal employees who undermine the public trust or fail the American people.

The fiscal 2019 budget proposal offers new details.

The budget proposal seeks to align total compensation with the private sector, noting that the current system fails in appropriately compensating personnel.

The White House calls for abandoning across-the-board pay increase for 2019, in order to realign incentives by enhancing performance-based pay and slowing the frequency of tenure-based step increases.

Federal employees with a high school diploma or less earn approximately 53 percent more than peers with similar education levels in the private sector, according to a 2017 study by the Congressional Budget Office. College graduates earn about 21 percent more than their private-sector counterparts, while people with advanced degrees earn 18 percent less in the government.

Senior officials with the Office of Management and Budget told USA Today that the proposal would change how more than 1.5 million federal workers are paid, and would focus on performance-based raises instead of the current system that typically increases salary based on tenure.

The budget also proposes a $1 billion interagency workforce fund, which would replace the across-the-board pay raise. The proposal would present targeted pay incentives to reward and retain high performers and those with the most essential skills.

Senior administration officials said the presidents proposal would slow salary increases, generating $10 billion over 10 years.

Transitioning to a more performance-focused workforce would also mean that federal workers with poor reviews could more easily be fired. The budget calls to streamline the hiring and dismissal process.

That component seems to mirror the Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, which Congress passed and Trump signed last June, making it easier to fire employees accused of malpractice or wrongdoing, rather than work for years in the bureaucracy or get transitioned out.

The administration has touted that program, but union members have protested in recent months saying that VA facilities do not have enough workers to provide adequate health care and that veterans are suffering as a result of the shortage. As of September 2017, the department has 35,000 full-time vacancies.

Government employee unions are not thrilled with the latest proposal.

"He seems to be interested in political revenge by firing people," President of American Federation of Government Employees David Cox told USA Today. "The government is not a family business that you get to be in total control of."

The Trump administrations 2019 proposal also calls for changes to federal retirement benefits. The proposal urges increasing the employee share of retirement benefits to match that contributed by the government.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.The White House will unveil a plan to increase infrastructure spending by $1.5 trillion that relies heavily on state and local governments, a senior administration official revealed Sunday.

The plan, which the administration is set to announce officially on Monday, also would cut the permitting process for new projects from ten years to two years and boost investment for projects in rural America -- including transportation, broadband, water, waste, power, flood management and ports -- by $50 billion in a bid to address criticism from some Republican senators that the Trump administration's initial emphasis on public-private partnerships would do little to help rural, traditionally GOP-leaning states.

Just $200 billion of the proposed spending would be in federal dollars, which the official said would come from "reductions in other areas of the budget." Half of that amount would go to grants for transportation, water, flood control, cleanup at some of the country's most polluted sites and other projects.

States, local governments and other project sponsors could use the grants -- which administration officials view as incentives -- for no more than 20 percent of the cost. Transit agencies generally count on the federal government for half the cost of major construction projects, and federal dollars can make up as much as 80 percent of some highway projects.

"Every federal dollar should be leveraged by partnering with state and local governments and -- where appropriate -- tapping into private sector investment to permanently fix the infrastructure deficit," President Trump said at last month's State of the Union address.

Trump has repeatedly blamed the "crumbling" state of the nation's roads and highways for preventing the American economy from reaching its full potential. Many in Washington believe that Trump should have begun his term a year ago with an infrastructure push, one that could have garnered bipartisan support or, at minimum, placed Democrats in a bind for opposing a popular political measure.

But the administration chose to begin with health care and relations with Democrats have only grown more strained during a turbulent, contentious year.

The president, in remarks last week to Republican lawmakers at a West Virginia retreat, emphasized efforts to "streamline the horrible approval process  roadways that take 12, 13, 14 years to get approved."

"We used to build them in three months, and now it takes years and years of approvals. We're going to bring that down, ideally, to one year. Two years is our goal, but one year is our real goal," Trump said.

Early reaction to the proposal was divided.

Jay Timmons, president of the National Association of Manufacturers, saluted Trump "for providing the leadership we have desperately needed to reclaim our rightful place as global leader on true 21st-century infrastructure."

"When ports are clogged, trucks are delayed, power is down, water is shut off, or the internet has a lapse, modern manufacturers' ability to compete is threatened and jobs are put at risk," said Timmons. "There is no excuse for inaction, and manufacturers are committed to ensuring that America seizes this opportunity."

But a number of Democrats and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have pushed the administration to commit far more federal dollars, funded by tax increases, or by closing tax loopholes. And environmental groups expressed worry about its impact.

"President Trump's infrastructure proposal is a disaster," said Shelley Poticha, of the Natural Resources Defense Council. "It fails to offer the investment needed to bring our country into the 21st century. Even worse, his plan includes an unacceptable corporate giveaway by truncating environmental reviews."

Fox News' Jennifer Bowman and The Associated Press contributed to this report.A name long associated with the Clinton machine has surfaced as a behind-the-scenes figure in the Trump-Russia collusion story, prompting some to speculate that the investigation began at least partly as a dirty tricks operation.

Sidney Blumenthal, a Clinton loyalist from the days of Bill Clintons presidency up through Hillary Clintons presidential campaigns, was identified by Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-S.C., as a source of anti-Trump information passed to the FBI through the State Department. The information is believed to have played a role in the FBIs launching of the collusion probe that is now in the hands of Special Counsel Robert Mueller.

Blumenthal has long been known as an attack dog for the Clintons, so ferocious a defender that he earned the nickname Sid Vicious. As Dick Morris, former adviser to the Clintons (although he has since become a critic) puts it, If [Bill Clinton] is caught shoplifting for the tenth time, Hillary would have Sidney blame the stores cameras.

Blumenthal started out as a journalist, writing for the New Republic, the Washington Post and The New Yorker, before joining the Clinton White House in 1997. He was soon embroiled in the Monica Lewinsky scandal, called to testify before a grand jury by independent counsel Ken Starr, though he refused to answer questions about confidential White House conversations on the matter.

At the time, journalist Christopher Hitchens submitted an affidavit that Blumenthal had described Monica Lewinsky as a stalker, though Blumenthal denied this.

When Bill Clinton left office, Blumenthal returned to journalism and gained a reputation as being pro-Clintonso pro-Clinton, in fact, that some fellow journalists felt it was unseemly.

He worked as an adviser in the 2008 Hillary Clinton presidential campaign, and allegedly spread anti-Barack Obama stories. Journalist James Asher stated Blumenthal told him to investigate if President Obama was born in Kenya, though Blumenthal denies this.

Whatever happened, the Obama administration was apparently so angry at Blumenthal that Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel blocked him from working on Hillary Clintons staff when she was named secretary of state, claiming his presence was too divisive, even poisonous.

Instead, Blumenthal went to work at the Clinton Foundation, and kept in touch with Hillary. He sent her policy advice, including a reported 25 emails about Libya in 2011 and 2012. A few years later, Republicans on the Benghazi committee asked Hillary about the Blumenthal connection. In a leaked email, John Podesta, Clintons campaign boss, believed Blumenthal to be lost in his own web of conspiracies.

Around this time, Hillary defended her connection with Blumenthal, stating Im going to keep talking to my old friends, whoever they are.He sent me unsolicited emails, which I passed on in some instances, and thats just part of the give-and-take.

And now it appears Blumenthal was likely there, behind the scenes, helping to spread information tying the Trump campaign to Russia. It would appear to fit his MOas Dick Morris claims, Sidney Blumenthal is Hillarys go-to guy for off-the-shelf dirty ops.

The question now is will the Russia story continue to bedevil Trump, or will it be turned around on his accusers?

Additional reporting by Kristine KottaLissa Lucas, a candidate in this years Democratic primary for West Virginia delegates, was escorted out of the Charleston state house because she read a list of House members and how much they pocketed from oil and gas companies.

Newsweek reported that the meeting was about a proposal, the Co-Tenancy and Majority Protection Act, or H.B. 4268, that would allow these companies to drill on minority mineral owners land without their consent.

The report said that some landowners worry that the bill will allow these companies to drill on their properties for the minerals located below.

The West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association tweeted a poll that showed the majority of Republicans and Democrats in the state approve the bill.

Lucas approached the rostrum Friday and, right off the bat, she corrected the person who introduced her and who mispronounced Lissa.

Lucas went on to claim that there would be no jobs created by the proposal and the only delegates in favor are in the oil companies pockets.

I have to keep this short, because the public only gets a minute 45, while lobbyists can throw a gala at the Marriot with whiskey and wine and talk for hours with the delegates, she said.

Common Dreams, a progressive website, reported that Lucas said she was dragged out of the room simply because she was defending the communitys constitutional property rights.

While Lucas was rattling off names, John Shott, the chairman, could reportedly be heard telling her that personal comments are not allowed and told her to address the merits of the bill. She insisted that she was not making personal comments and she was eventually ordered to be removed.

Newsweek reported that the bill passed and will likely be signed into law. Lucas reportedly believes that, by and large, oil and gas firms have done more damage in the state than create jobs.The spectacle of the setting sun in late February that transforms a waterfall in Yosemite National Park into a glowing "firefall" may not happen this year due to a worsening drought in California.

Yosemite National Park said on its website that Horsetail Fall located on the eastern edge of El Capitan is dry as of Feb. 6, and there is no precipitation in the forecast.

The National Weather Service said about an inch of snow is possible on Monday and showers are possible on Tuesday, but its unclear if that will be enough water to flow down the falls.

The "firefall" effect on Horsetail Fall in Yosemite Valley happens during the second half of February when there is a clear sky and enough snow for the waterfall to flow, according to the park.

"It's a small waterfall that many people don't notice, but it has gained popularity as more and more people have noticed it can glow orange during sunset in mid- to late February, in a way reminiscent of the Firefall that occurred historically from Glacier Point," the park said on its website.

The spectacle has grown in popularity over the years, and park officials have had to issue permits for vehicles headed to the viewing area after major traffic jams in the area created significant safety problems, according to KTVU.

EVERY FEBRUARY YOSEMITE WATERFALL TURNS TO 'LAVA'

Earlier this month, the U.S. Drought Monitor said that California is rapidly plunging back into drought, with severe conditions now existing in Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties  home to one-fourth of the state's population. The drought information resource also showed 44 percent of the state now considered to be in a moderate drought.

A drought state of emergency was lifted in California less than a year ago after a rainy winter snapped a deep five-year drought that forced water conservation, but so far this year the state has seen little precipitation.

Doug Carlson, spokesman for the state's Department of Water Resources, which carries out the snowpack surveys, told the Associated Press the dry weather is a growing concern, although reservoirs are still fuller than usual thanks to last year's rain in Northern California.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.The moment a gigantic boar stands on his hind legs to chow down on garbage has been caught on camera  but its where the animal is doing it thats causing concern.

Shocked parents taking their kids to school in Hong Kong spotted the huge animal standing on the tips of his hooves to get his head in the dumpster, while two piglets stand next to him.

The terrifying video, posted to Facebook by Tu Dong, has since gone viral.

Its already been shared more than 4,600 times and has racked up 300,000 views.

More than 2,500 social media users also commented on the video, many of which expressed concern about how close the wild pigs were to the school.

Misaki Ceci wrote: The wild pig is in front of the left school. Im careful with Hyung-Hyungs primary school, and Ive got a wild boar.

The footage shows the boar trying to pull a black garbage bag out of the can while his piglets stand guard.

In Australia, feral pigs were declared pest animals in 2013, meaning they can be legally killed by farm owners.

In July 2013, a 10-year-old boy was gored in the neck by a wild boar at an Australian beach. He had been riding his bike when the pig charged at him and stabbed him in the neck with his tusk.

Feral pigs are also known to cause significant economic losses to agriculture by damaging crops, water holes and fencing.

There are strict laws in place to deter people from transporting and releasing live feral pigs, with fines starting at $2,200 for possessing a wild animal.

Fines climb to $22,000 for transporting live feral pigs.

This story originally appeared in news.com.au.Unilever, one of the world's largest advertisers, is threatening to pull its investment and marketing from tech giants such as Google and Facebook if the platforms fuel hate, create division or fail to protect children.

Reuters reports the consumer goods giant is set to put Silicon Valley on the hot seat during a speech Monday by Unilevers chief marketing officer Keith Weed at an industry conference. Weed will call on the technology industry to improve transparency and consumer trust in an era of fake news and toxic online content.

As one of the largest advertisers in the world, we cannot have an environment where our consumers dont trust what they see online, Weed is expected to tell the audience. We cannot continue to prop up a digital supply chain  one that delivers over a quarter of our advertising to our consumers  which at times is little better than a swamp in terms of its transparency.

The advertisers criticism comes as lawmakers, activists and former tech executives have blasted tech companies for their opaque policies and inability to scrub their platforms of extremist or illegal content and fake news.

Google, a unit of tech giant Alphabet, and Facebook are estimated to have taken half of online ad revenue worldwide in 2017 and more than 60 percent in the U.S., according to research firm eMarketer.

EX-SILICON VALLEY WORKERS PLEAD FOR HELP IN BATTLE AGAINST 'ADDICTIVE' TECHNOLOGY

Ian Whittaker and Annick Maas, analysts at Liberum, told The Guardian that YouTube  which is owned by Google  and Facebook are facing difficulties in persuading advertisers that their product offers a brand safe environment.

They added: Moreover, given the number of videos uploaded, there will always be an element of videos slipping through the net, which is likely to fuel further negative publicity. We therefore do not see this problem going away for the online platforms.

Executives from Facebook and other tech companies have admitted that they could do more to combat hate, abuse and extremism on their platforms.

We have over-invested in building new experiences and under-invested in preventing abuses, Facebooks communications and public policy chief, Elliot Schrage, told a tech conference in Munich, according to Reuters.

Analysts have noted that advertisters are becoming more wary of online's quality and are becomng more reticent about shifting funds from TV to online as these controversies continue.

Weed is expected to promise to prioritize investing only in digital platforms that act responsibly and create a positive impact in society.

AMAZON'S NEW GROCERY STORE THREATENS TO OBLITERATE CASHIER JOBS

A group of former tech executives and acitivists recently formed the Center for Humane Technology, which is which is committed to reversing the digital attention crisis and realigning technology with humanitys best interests and received a $7 million grant from Common Sense Media.

Unilever will not invest in platforms or environments that do not protect our children or which create division in society, and promote anger or hate, the chief marketing officer plans to say on Monday. We will prioritize investing only in responsible platforms that are committed to creating a positive impact in society.

Unilever is expected to warn other advertisers to take the Google-Facebook duopoly to task and prevent the erosion of trust online.

Consumers dont care about third-party verification. They do care about fraudulent practice, fake news, and Russians influencing the US election. They dont care about good value for advertisers. But they do care when they see their brands being placed next to ads funding terror or exploiting children, Weed is set to say.











A call is openfor theor political debates including at least one member of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR),. All interested partners can apply, giving the priority to the following countries: Cyprus, Denmark, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Slovakia, and Slovenia.In the context of the 30th anniversary of Cohesion policy and of the debate on the Future of Europe, the local events will be integrated into the CoR initiative 'Reflecting on Europe', which aims at setting up dialogues with citizens and at collecting feedback on their concerns, thoughts, proposals and ideas about the future of the EU.Check out the online application and guide for local events organised by independent partners on the EURegionsWeek website.An American Airlines flight to Chile had to return to Miami International Airport after only an hour into the trip because of mechanical issues. The flight ended up being delayed for 15 hours, allegedly forcing passengers to spend the night on the airports floor.

The flight returned to the airport around 12:30 am just after the pilot reported a mechanical issue, Lakesha Brown, a spokeswoman for American Airlines told Local 10.

The company rescheduled the flight for 12:30 pm on Sunday, but then rescheduled it again for 3:45 pm.

'MOB' BREAKS OUT AT DES MOINES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AFTER 14-HOUR DELAY

During the 15-hour delay, angry passengers claim they had to sleep on the floor of the airport because the airline did not offer them hotel accommodations.

One passenger, Jacob Chen, recorded a video of passengers in the terminal demanding we want a bed in Spanish.

Chen told Local 10 that the airline gave hotel accommodations to some passengers, but not everyone. He said an airline worker told him there were no more rooms available.

"We landed again at 1 a.m. after being in the plane for an hour," Chen said to Local 10. "It wasn't until 3 a.m. did American finally tell everyone to sleep in the lobby."

Chen said passengers were given a $7 food voucher and were asked to have patience, Local 10 reports.

Brown denies the claim that not all passengers were offered rooms and vouchers and said the airline followed company policy.

As part of the company policy, American Airlines provides passengers with hotel accommodations and meal vouchers when planes are grounded because of mechanical issues.

American Airlines apologized for the incident in an official statement:

Our team is aware of the extensive delay of flight 957 Saturday night from Miami to Santiago, Chile, which was the result of a mechanical issue. We never want to disrupt our customers travel plans, and we are sorry for the trouble this caused. We have spoken to our Miami team, and customers were provided hotel accommodations and meal vouchers.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

The airline also said passengers were given additional compensation for the situation.

Additionally, our customer relations team has reached out to all of those passengers impacted to offer our apologies and an additional form of compensation for the delay.Price hikes at Disneyland and Disney World took effect over the weekend, making the already pricey theme parks even more expensive for families and fans.

On Sunday, officials for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts announced that tickets for the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif., would increase by nearly 9 percent for peak one-day entry, from $124 to $135, while the price of non-peak regular tickets would increase from $110 to $117, Reuters reported.

Value tickets, for use on the least busy days, will remain at $97.

DISNEY WILL ALLOW CERTAIN GUESTS TO BUY MORE FASTPASSES

Annual pass prices also rose significantly, with regular, signature, and Signature Plus passes going for $729, $999 and $1,149 respectively, up from $619, $849 and $1,049, the L.A. Times added.

Over at Disney World, peak tickets for the Magic Kingdom will now cost $123 and $129 per child or adult, respectively. Regular and value tickets will also cost more, putting the price of a regular ticket at $113 per child and $119 per adult (a $4 increase in both cases), and the price of a value ticket at $103 and $109 respectively.

Prices for other parks within Walt Disney World also jumped, including those for Epcot, Hollywood Studios and the Animal Kingdom, per the Associated Press.

News of Disneys price hikes was naturally met with disappointment on social media, with Twitter users calling the new tickets stupidly overpriced and lamenting the not fair decision.

DISNEY RESORTS MAKES DECISION ABOUT 'DO NOT DISTURB' SIGNS

Disney, meanwhile, has said that it will continue to evolve its pricing model to better suit guests.

"We know how important making memories at Disney theme parks is to families and we will continue to evolve our pricing in a way that gives families a range of options to meet their budget and helps better spread attendance throughout the year so they can make the most of every visit, said Disney spokesperson Andrea Finger in a statement to Fox News.

Disney originally introduced flexible pricing in Oct. 2015 as a way to encourage guests to visit at less busy times, resulting in its value, regular and peak pricing model, the AP reported.

Officials said on Sunday that date-specific tickets  with prices published in advance  will be the next pricing model to roll out at Walt Disney World.

"Given the small percentage of guests that purchase a 1-day ticket at Walt Disney World, extending pre-published, date-specific pricing to multi-day tickets will further advance our efforts spread to attendance throughout the year and ensure all guests have a magical experience no matter when they visit," said Finger.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Hundreds of Southwest Airlines flights out of Chicagos Midway International Airport were canceled on Sunday due to a shortage of de-icing fluid, the airline has confirmed.

Throughout the storms, we've actively worked to manage our glycol levels (used to de-ice aircraft) but due to the severity of the winter weather Southwest has proactively canceled about 220 flights as of midday Sunday, the airline confirmed in a statement to The Chicago Tribune.

'MOB' BREAKS OUT AT DE MOINES AIRPORT AFTER 14-HOUR DELAY

Additionally, Southwest Airlines responded to a tweet from a passenger who inquired about the scores of canceled departures.

Due to having to de-ice many of our aircraft because of the weather, we are running low on deicing fluid. Safety will remain our top priority in this circumstance. Please reach out to our Team or Reservations Agents to get rebooked just as soon as possible, the company wrote.

Southwest wasnt the only airline affected by the icy conditions: Harsh winter weather also grounded dozens of other flights out of Midway on Sunday, the airport confirmed via Twitter.

Airlines have canceled 250+ flights today due to winter operational issues, tweeted Midway. Confirm flight status w/ your airline.

PASSENGER'S CIGARETTE BREAK CAUSES MASSIVE DELAYS

By Monday morning, Southwest Airlines had said it expected to operate on a "close to normal schedule."

"The glycol has been replenished and the airport deicing equipment is fully functional," said Southwest in a statement to Fox News. "Those developments, coupled with a more positive weather forecast for Chicago position us to safely operate our more than 250 departures out of Chicago Midway.

"We will continue to work with our Customers on their travel plans and apologize for any inconvenience the disruption in service has caused," the airline added.

This is the second time in recent months that Southwest's de-icing issues caused headaches at Midway International Airport. Shortly after Christmas, Southwest was forced to cancel roughly 90 flights when harsh conditions kept its de-icing crews from servicing its planes.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX TRAVEL NEWS

The city of Chicago saw three more inches of snowfall on Saturday night and into Sunday, which accumulated atop the 10 inches that fell in the area late last week, per the Associated Press.A Kentucky gunman killed his parents, his girlfriend and his girlfriends mother at two locations Saturday afternoon in Johnson County, before turning the gun on himself, state police said Sunday.

Cops released the victims names and their relationships with the shooter, Joseph Nickell.

Nickells parents, James and Arlene Nickell, were gunned down Saturday at a home in the McKenzie Branch area of Flatgap, Kentucky, and Joseph Nickells girlfriend, Lindsey Vanhoose, and her mother, Patricia Vanhoose, later were fatally shot at an apartment in nearby Paintsville, State Police Trooper William Petry said in a statement.

Johnson County Sheriff Dwayne Price said Joseph Nickells body also was found at the apartment in what investigators described as a murder-suicide.

Price said authorities in Paintsville, about 190 miles east of Louisville, received a 911 call on Saturday afternoon about a shooting and the Nickell parents were found dead in the kitchen of the home. After receiving a tip on the whereabouts of a suspects vehicle, the other two victims and Nickell were found later at the apartment complex, Price said.

Authorities didnt give a motive for the shootings, which remain under investigation.

The Nickell familys pastor told The Lexington Herald Leader that he had struggled with drug addiction for years.

James Kelly Caudill, pastor at Toms Branch Free Will Baptist Church, said Nickell had been through treatment, but seemed to suffer a setback after his sister, Becki, died several months ago, according to the Herald Leader.

This boy  he just never did really get over that. I think it just inflamed his addiction, Caudill told the Herald Leader. It just come to a head.

He and his parents attended morning and evening worship services together Feb. 4. That night, Nickell sat between his parents on the front pew, but was out of it on some substance, Caudill said.

Nickell blurted out unknown words during the service, and his mother calmed him, Caudill said.

This has been a horrific murder spree, Price said in a Facebook post Saturday night. There are no words to describe the heartbreak in seeing four lives taken due to the actions of one man. I have worked in law enforcement for 34 years. This is one of the most disturbing acts of violence I have ever seen.

Price said later in another Facebook post: Working a murder is never easy. Working the murders of four innocent people that are part of your community is even tougher.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.A registered sex offender from a small town in Pennsylvania was reelected as the towns fire chief, prompting widespread outrage.

Roger Gilbert Jr., of Spartansburg, was convicted in 2001 of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse after forcing a 4-year-old girl to perform oral sex on him, The Corry Journal reported Saturday.

Court records show Gilbert, 43, is a felon who completed a five- to 10-year prison sentence, and hes listed in the states Megans Law database.

NEW JERSEY AUTHORITIES ARREST 79 ALLEGED SEX OFFENDERS IN STING OPERATION

The convicted sex offender joined the towns fire department in 2010 as an unpaid volunteer, and said his conviction is now in the past.

That was 20 years ago, Gilbert told the paper. You know, the story you are telling kids is once you make mistake, you will be punished for the rest of your life. Ive changed my life for the better. Every day I get up and try to do good.

Spartansburg Mayor Ann Louise Wagner  who said she and the department have known about Gilberts status  said she doesnt understand why the victims mother wont drop this.

I support the fire department and their decision to have him as chief, Wagner added of Gilbert. The firemen have always elected their own officers and thats how its always been done. We dont question their decisions.

SOME SEX OFFENDERS COULD OPT FOR CHEMICAL CASTRATION UNDER OKLAHOMA BILL

Despite his self-proclaimed changed ways, the victims mother has questioned the decision, and doesnt believe a sex offender should be allowed to work with kids.

As fire chief, this man interacts with children, she told the newspaper. If you were in an accident, would you want this man working on your child?

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT WHO WAS A CONVICTED CHILD SEX OFFENDER ARRESTED AT THE BORDER

Pennsylvania State Police said it is up to each individual community to decide whether to allow sex offenders who have completed their sentences to serve in an office at the local level.

About 300 people live in Spartansburg, which is about 40 miles southeast of Erie, Pennsylvania.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.An explosion at a main power plant in Puerto Rico triggered a blackout across part of the island on Sunday, as officials said several municipalities were without power.

It was not immediately known what caused the explosion, which set off a fire, but areas of the U.S. territory  including parts of the capital city, San Juan  were without power.

We are trying to restore that as quickly as possible, the company told The Associated Press.

San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz tweeted updates on the outage, reassuring the island that no injuries have been reported.

Around 9 p.m., Cruz stated that areas of San Juan  such as Placita and Santurce  have been getting their power turned back on. Just before 10 p.m., the mayor tweeted: It appears fire has almost totally been extinguished and the cooling phase is beginning. No injured reported.

More than 400,000 power customers have remained in the dark more than five months after Hurricane Maria slammed Puerto Rico.

The Category 4 storm destroyed two-thirds of the island's power distribution system and triggered up to an estimated $94 billion in damage.

Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rossello recently announced that he planned to privatize the state-owned power company, which is $9 billion in debt and relying on infrastructure nearly three times older than the industry average. It would be the largest restructuring of a public entity in U.S. history.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Three British nationals were killed and four other people were in critical condition after a tourist helicopter crashed in an "extremely remote area" of the Grand Canyon, officials said Sunday.

Hualapai Nation Police Chief Francis Bradley told the Associated Press that six passengers and a pilot were on board the Papillion Grand Canyon Helicopters chopper when it crashed around 5:20 p.m. on Saturday near Quartermaster Canyon, located near the Grand Canyon's West Rim.

"First responders had to be flown in and walk to the crash site," he told the AP. "Quartermaster Canyon is an extremely remote area. We had to call in specially trained crews  people with night-vision goggles."

Late Sunday, a spokeswoman for the British Foreign Office told Sky News the government was "providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on February 10, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services."

The four survivors of the crash, who were "level 1 trauma patients," were airlifted to a hospital in Las Vegas, according to Bradley. UMC Hospital in Las Vegas told FOX10 the four people in the Grand Canyon chopper crash are in critical condition.

The victims' identities were not immediately released.

The police chief said rescue crews were hampered by high winds and darkness Saturday night along with rugged terrain, but now officials are in the "the recovery and investigation mode."

"This morning, our hearts and our prayers are with the victims of this very tragic crash in the Grand Canyon, as well as all the first responders and medics involved in critical rescue efforts," Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey tweeted early Sunday.

RUSSIAN PLANE CRASH OUTSIDE MOSCOW LEAVES 71 DEAD

Winds in the area picked up in the Saturday afternoon with gusts up to 45 mph, but the cause of the crash is not immediately known.

The National Transportation Safety Board said on Twitter it was investigating the crash 3 miles east of Grand Canyon West Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration also will be investigating the crash of the Eurocopter EC130, spokesman Allen Kenitzer said.

Calls and emails to Nevada-based Papillon for comment by Fox News on the crash were not immediately returned Sunday.

The company's website says it flies roughly 600,000 passengers a year around the Grand Canyon and on other tours.

It also notes that it "abides by flight safety rules and regulations that substantially exceed the regulations required by the Federal Aviation Administration."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Three Detroit police officers were shot and three women were killed Sunday when a gunman opened fire, and reportedly barricaded himself in a home during the "melee" in an hourslong standoff.

The standoff ended Monday afternoon after the suspected gunman was found dead inside the home in east Detroit. A third woman, believed to be the suspect's girlfriend, was found dead when police entered the residence more than 14 hours after the incident began, WXYZ reported.

The standoff began around 10 p.m. when police received a call about shots fired at a home. Police arrived and found two women and an off-duty Detroit Public Schools Community District police officer shot, Detroit Police Chief James Craig said during a Monday news conference.

The suspect was heard saying prior to the instances, I will not be taken without a fight, Craig said. So he clearly expressed an intention to do harm and he clearly expressed intentions to hurt police officers.

Craig added the gunman fired an unknown number of rounds before the DPSCD officer called 911. The shooter then began firing at responding officers for at least an hour, striking a Detroit police officer. A second attack on officers occurred early Monday morning when another Detroit police officer was wounded.

Responding police officers did not return fire during the standoff because it was unclear where the gunfire was coming from, according to Craig. He added that police initially believed another person was firing from a neighboring house, but ultimately determined there was only one barricaded shooter situation.

The women, in their 50s or 60s, were taken to the hospital and pronounced dead. The off-duty DPSCD officer suffered a gunshot wound to the knee and is expected to survive. The two other police officers also suffered non-life threatening injuries.

Despite earlier reports that the suspect was contained, Craig said police took a neighbor into custody and determined the individual did not fire any shots. Craig added the neighbor will be released later today.

Police said an argument may have sparked the incident. The suspect also reportedly suffers from mental illness and has no criminal history. He has seven guns registered under his name.

"It's not just dangerous for police officers  we are in a dangerous line of work  but it is dangerous for our community," Detroit Police Asst. Chief Arnold Williams said, according to WWJ.An elderly California woman was arrested Friday night after she allegedly shot a gun toward her neighbors children because they were being noisy.

Betty Frances Sanders, 84, fired a handgun in the direction of the three children  ages 8 to 10  as they were riding on their motorcycles at their home in Anderson, Redding Record Searchlight reported.

The family was in the front yard of their property when Sanders and her husband approached the fence separating their two yards, the childrens mother, Angela Rollins, told deputies with the Shasta County Sheriffs Office.

Sanders allegedly complained about the children being too loud, which escalated into an argument.

The woman then shot her handgun toward the family who were roughly 20 feet away, according to deputies.

No one was injured in the incident.

Sanders was arrested on suspicion of assault with a firearm and child endangerment, and transported to the Shasta County Jail. Record Searchlight reported her bail was set at $50,000.A 99-year-old man who investigators say killed two teenagers this week by driving his RV on the wrong side of a Florida highwayreportedly with its headlights off-- was cleared to drive in Michigan last month after he passed vision, paper and road tests and got the approval of two medical professionals, a state spokesman said Friday.

The inside interior lights were not working at the time, Florida Highway Patrol Sgt. Raymond Stuhr said in a news conference Thursday, according to the Detroit Free Press. We believe the headlights were not functional at the time of the crash as well.

The Michigan Secretary of States Office gave more information about a re-examination that Walter Roney passed Jan. 8, four months after someone asked motor vehicle officials to determine if he was still competent to drive.

The Tuesday night crash in Fort Pierce, Florida, killed best friends Santia Feketa, 18, and Britney Poindexter, 17. They were on their way to a skating rink.

Fred Woodhams, a spokesman for Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, said Thursday that Roney, of Dearborn, Michigan, was determined to have an acceptable medical condition at the re-examination. On Friday, he said Roney also had favorable statements from two medical professionals and cleared eye, knowledge and on-the-road tests.

Woodhams would not say who flagged Roneys ability to drive, citing confidentiality policies. He said referrals typically come from law enforcement, a family member or a medical professional.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Roney and his 75-year-old girlfriend, Carolyn Elizabeth-Evans Bruns of Brighton, Michigan, were driving Tuesday from Melbourne on Floridas Atlantic coast, where property records show Roney owns a condo. They were headed to Port Charlotte on the states Gulf Coast to have interior electrical issues with their RV repaired. They exited Interstate 95 in Fort Pierce shortly before 7 p.m., with Roney taking over the driving from Bruns.

Bruns told investigators the headlights had been working when she was driving.

Feketa was driving east in her 2013 Chevrolet Silverado with Poindexter in the passenger seat when Roneys RV smashed into them.

Roney and Bruns remained hospitalized in critical condition on Friday.

The Associated Press contributed to this reportAround the world, cities have embraced bike-sharing programs such as Citibike, Zagster and BCycle as an alternative way to commute. But a new idea in west Texas will allow riders to go country to country.

El Paso, Texas city planners are developing a bike share with Juarez, Mexico. The bikes would be stationed near downtown El Paso, where over 13,000 people cross the border everyday.

If we were to target the downtown area we think that wed be able to have people utilize the bicycle if were able to provide that accessibility to it, said Michael Medina, Executive Director of the El Paso Metropolitan Planning Organization.

The international bike share would be very similar to El Pasos current system, which has bikes available to rent for a single ride, or with monthly and annual memberships. But in addition to the stations in El Paso, the new bike share would have stations to take or leave a bike in Juarez.

Some travelers Fox News spoke with said they would use the bikes.

Its just more convenient. Especially if I do go to Juarez and I might just go walking I could just go on a bike, said Sammantha Davila, while riding a shared bike.

It saves a lot of time. Sometimes you got to wait for the bus or whatever. Just rent one of those little bikes and it will get you there a lot quicker, said David Rodriguez, who was carrying shopping bags and walking to cross back into Juarez.

But Leo Silva was not interested. He already commutes an hour and a half from Juarez to El Paso for work and thinks a bike would make his travels longer.

My house is very far to ride a bike all the weekend, so I cant, said Silva.

El Pasos bike share has seen growth in its two years of operation. The city expanded last year from eight stations with 80 bikes to 16 stations with 160 bikes.There were 12,000 rides the first year, and 18,000 the second year.

The expanded bike share would cost $1 million in public and private funds according to Medina. Organizers hope to sell the idea as a healthy and green way to commute, which they believe will be especially appealing to younger customers.

It has a lot of economic development potential. It has other features like health, like tourism, that ultimately the entire benefit is to the region, said Medina.Donald Trump Jr.s wife, Vanessa Trump, was taken to the hospital Monday after receiving a letter containing white powder that was later deemed to be non-hazardous, New York City police told Fox News.

President Trump's daughter-in-law opened the letter addressed to Donald Trump Jr. just after 10 a.m. at the couple's Manhattan apartment. It's unclear what the "white powder" was, but authorities tested the substance and found it to be "non-hazardous."

Vanessa Trump was taken to the hospital as a precaution, police said. Two other people who were also exposed to the powder were taken to the hospital.

A hazmat crew was called to the scene and began decontamination procedures shortly after the incident.

Trump Jr. tweeted of the "scary situation" on Monday afternoon, and blamed the incident on people with "opposing views."

"Thankful that Vanessa & my children are safe and unharmed after the incredibly scary situation that occurred this morning," Trump Jr. said. "Truly disgusting that certain individuals choose to express their opposing views with such disturbing behavior."

Trump Jr. is the eldest son of the president. He married Vanessa in 2005. The couple has five children, though it was not clear if any were home at the time of the incident.

DONALD TRUMP JR., CONWAY TO END SECRET SERVICE PROTECTION

Police and Secret Service are investigating the incident.

The U.S. Secret Service said in a statement: "The Secret Service and our law enforcement partners in New York City are investigating a suspicious package addressed to one of our protectees received today in New York, New York. This is an active investigation and we cannot comment any further."

Ivanka Trump, Vanessa's sister-in-law, tweeted Monday afternoon, "No one deserves to be frightened this way. There is no excuse."

Trump Jr. ditched his Secret Service detail for a period of time in September, reportedly because he wanted more privacy. But his detail was reactivated about a week later.

Fox News' Nicole Darrah contributed to this report.Kentucky's Republican governor is urging the state's highest court to rule in favor of a company whose owner refused to print T-shirts for a gay rights festival because of his Christian beliefs.

Attorneys for Gov. Matt Bevin have asked to file a brief with the Kentucky Supreme Court in the case involving Hands-On Originals. The company refused an order in 2012 from Lexington's Gay and Lesbian Services Organization for T-shirts in advance of the city's Gay Pride Festival.

The Lexington Human Rights Commission ruled the company violated a city ordinance banning discrimination based on sexual orientation. A state judge and the Court of Appeals both reversed those rulings. The Kentucky Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case.

Bevin argues Kentucky should protect the right of citizens to act according to their conscience.The three victims of a deadly helicopter crash in a remote area of the Grand Canyon were identified by authorities Monday, as survivors of the wreck remained in a Nevada hospital.

The Hualapai Nation Police Department said Becky Dobson, 27, Jason Hill, 32, and Stuart Hill, 30, were killed when the Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters chopper -- which was ferrying British tourists -- crashed due to unknown circumstances Saturday evening on the Hualapai Nation's land near Quartermaster Canyon, by the Grand Canyon's West Rim.

Dobson was a receptionist at a veterinary practice in the seaside English town of Worthing, and had previously been an au pair in Australia, according to Sky News.

Dobson had described her favorite things as working with her horse, Buddy, and traveling in a profile on the veterinary practice's website, adding her dream was to be a veterinary nurse.

Jason Hill, who worked at the law firm Shoosmiths, and his younger brother Stuart, a Mercedes salesman, had saved up for what they thought would be the trip of a lifetime, family members told The Evening Standard.

Their father, Reverend David Hill, told the newspaper that "Six of them went out for my sons 30th birthday. They had saved for a year to go, and it was a helicopter accident. We are absolutely devastated."

Hill added the two brothers "loved each other" and the only comfort was that the two "went together."

They were truly loved by lots of people. They were incredibly close, and as parents we feel blessed to have had them, but a light has truly gone out," Hill told The Standard.

The four survivors of the crash, 42-year-old pilot Scott Both, Ellie Milward, 29; Jonathan Udall, 32; and Jennifer Barham, 39, remained at a Las Vegas hospital in critical condition.

THREE BRITISH TOURISTS KILLED IN GRAND CANYON HELICOPTER CRASH, 4 OTHERS HOSPITALIZED

"We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on February 10, and we are in close contact with the U.S. emergency services," a British Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokeswoman told Sky News.

Windy conditions, darkness and the rugged terrain made it difficult to reach the helicopter's wreckage, Hualapai Nation police Chief Francis Bradley said. Rescue crews had to fly in, walk to the crash site and use night vision goggles to find their way around, he said.

A witness to the crash on the canyon's jagged rocks said he saw flames and black smoke spewing from the crash site, heard explosions and saw victims who were bleeding and badly burned.

"It's just horrible," witness Teddy Fujimoto, a Las Vegas photographer who was doing a wedding shoot at the time of the crash, told the Associated Press. "And those victims  she was so badly burned. It's unimaginable, the pain."

The tour company involved in the deadly crash promised full cooperation with crash investigators and offered its sympathy.

"It is with extreme sadness we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families involved in this accident," Papillon Group CEO Brenda Halvorson said in a statement. "Our top priority is the care and needs of our passengers and our staff."

The Nevada-based company's website says it flies roughly 600,000 passengers a year around the Grand Canyon and on other tours. It notes that it "abides by flight safety rules and regulations that substantially exceed the regulations required by the Federal Aviation Administration."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.A 24-year-old man fatally stabbed his girlfriend before driving to a family party at a Massachusetts restaurant to attack his parents, officials said.

Needham Police said they were called to a restaurant around 7 p.m. Saturday in Millis for a domestic violence incident and found Benjamin Walsh, who had stabbed his parents with a large kitchen knife before being restrained by partygoers.

Walsh's mother was hospitalized in serious condition, while his father was treated and released.

Police say they also found the body of Walsh's girlfriend, 20-year-old Olivia Bergstrom, in the apartment they shared.

"I know that when Ben realizes what he did last night he will be devastated," Mike Walsh, Ben's father, told Boston 25 News.

Walsh's father said his son struggled with substance abuse and mental health issues, and is convinced Ben was "out of his mind" during the rampage.

MASSACHUSETTS MOM STABBED 2 SONS TO DEATH DURING 'VOODOO' RITUAL, COPS SAY

Mike Walsh told Boston 25 he never imagined his son would harm his mother or girlfriend.

"She's, you know, a person he relies a lot on for support, I know she's not a person he would ever want to hurt," Walsh said.

Benjamin Walsh is scheduled to be arraigned Monday.In what authorities said was a premeditated beatdown, a gang of six Rikers Island prison inmates attacked a New York City correction officer Saturday.

The unidentified 39-year-old officer was hospitalized in serious condition, Michael Skelly, a spokesman for the Correction Officers Benevolent Association, told the New York Post.

Media reports said the officer had suffered a broken neck or "fractured spine."

According to internal records, the beating took place in the George Motchan Detention Center around 6:30 p.m. A known Bloods gang member -- identified as Steven Espinal -- struck the officer in the head before five other inmates joined in, the New York Daily News reported.

Responding officers used pepper spray on the attackers to stop the beating, records said.

A jail insider reportedly overheard Espinal planning the attack while talking on the phone earlier Saturday, the Daily News reported.

Jail officer unions have slammed New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio for enacting policies that they say have facilitated more violence in the prison. In 2015, De Blasio ended solitary confinement for inmates 21 and younger, and instead ordered them sent them to "Transitional Restoration Units" for counseling.

All of the inmates in Saturday's attack were 21 or younger, said Elias Husamudeen, president of the Correction Officers Benevolent Association.

The mayors policies are going to get one of us killed, he said. Tomorrow they will get visits and shop in the commissary like everyone else.

The inmates will face additional criminal charges, a department official said.Video of a veterans flag-draped stretcher leaving a South Carolina nursing home after his death last week has gone viral.

The Richard M. Campbell Veterans Nursing Home in Anderson paid tribute to Air Force vet Douglas Timmons after he died Wednesday following a long battle with Alzheimers. He was 81.

Even at 5 am this morning with the few people that were availablethey still honored him on his way out, Timmons daughter Laura Dorn said in a Facebook post. She told Fox News Monday her father was living in Kershaw, S.C., when he enlisted in the Air Force after the Korean War at age 17.

As of noon Monday, the Facebook post has been viewed more than 5.8 million times and shared more than 136,000 times.

At one point in the video, the two attendants escorting the stretcher down the nursing home's hallway are seen coming to a halt and standing at attention as a recording of a bugler playing Taps is heard.

Fox Carolina quoted Dorn as saying the nursing home has a tradition of honoring the fallen heroes with a procession through the hallways after they pass on.

They were good enough to arrive through the front door, so we want them to leave through the front door, nursing home director Russell Evatt said.

Dorn said she recorded the video for her sisters to watch because they could not be there and then posted it on Facebook.

She said she has received messages from people all across the world, offering their condolences and gratitude for her fathers service, the station reported.

Timmons' survivors include 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.Detectives are trying to piece together why a Kentucky man fatally shot his parents and two other people before taking his own life last weekend.

Kentucky State Police said 45-year-old Joseph Nickell shot his parents at their home Saturday afternoon, then drove to his girlfriend's house and killed her and her mother before taking his own life in Johnson County, an Appalachian county in eastern Kentucky.

State Police Trooper William Petry said investigators on Monday were interviewing family members and neighbors.

"At this point, I don't see an indication of any problems he had with the family, of course we're still early in it," said Petry, a spokesman for the Pikeville state police post.

Petry said Nickell had some misdemeanor drug charges in his past, but investigators have not determined a motive for the slayings. A note written by Nickell was found at one of the crime scenes, he added, but police are not releasing its contents.

The family's pastor said Joseph Nickell had long struggled with drug problems and he saw the family in church earlier this month. Pastor James Kelly Caudill told The Lexington Herald-Leader that Nickell blurted out something during a service at Tom's Branch Free Will Baptist Church, but his mother calmed him.

Caudill said Joseph Nickell seemed to suffer a setback after the death of his sister.

Police said Nickell shot his parents, James and Arlene Nickell, both in their 70s, before driving to an apartment in Paintsville and shooting 41-year-old Lindsey Vanhoose and her mother, Patricia Vanhoose, 57. He used the same handgun in all the shootings, Petry said.

Nickell's teenage son was at the house where the first shootings happened but fled and called 911, police said.A surge in carjackings in Chicago led to the highest number of vehicle thefts in more than a decade, as Windy City cops trying to get the city's murder problem under control increasingly find themselves playing criminal whack-a-mole, with the carjacking menace the newest threat to show its head.

And it's not just Chicago. St. Louis, Milwaukee and Baltimore are among the metropolitan areas experiencing an increase in carjackings, the Wall Street Journal reported Sunday. Police in St. Louis, a city which has established a carjacking task force to fight the problem, told the newspaper that gang members often take to the Internet to boast about their thefts.

Youll have one of them post that they got a Lexus, and then the other responds and say he stole a Mercedes, said St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Maj. Kenneth Kegel. It is almost like a game, where they want to one up each other.

In Chicago, carjackings have risen sharply over the last year, from about 700 in 2016 to 950 in 2017  the highest level in more than a decade. So far this year there have been at least 100, even though the city appears to be getting a better handle on murders and shootings, which fell 16 and 21 percent, respectively, between 2016 and 2017, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Meanwhile, carjackings in St. Louis rose from 74 in 2012 to 197 in 2017, and went up 35 percent in Baltimore between 2016 and 2017, according to the Wall Street Journal. But nationally the crime can be difficult to track, as neither the FBI or the Major Cities Chiefs Association  a group of police officials from the largest cities in the nation  keep records on carjackings.

Police and crime experts told the Wall Street Journal the surge is also attributed to repeat offenders who use the stolen vehicles to carry out other crimes.

Both car thefts and jackings have been driven by a need for a motor vehicle to commit additional crimes, Richard Rosenfeld, a criminologist at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, told the newspaper. That crime may be a retaliatory homicideor the vehicle is sometimes traded for drugs.

Recent carjacking arrests in Chicago include three teens who tried to escape with a car belonging to a retired police officer, who, with the help of witnesses, kept them at the scene until cops arrived, according to reports. Three teens were also arrested in December after being spotted driving the wrong way down a street in a car stolen from a Chicago Tribune reporter, police said.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, lawmakers and community leaders called Sunday for tougher state laws to deal with carjackers.

Carjacking arrests have doubled in the Windy City this year because of more surveillance equipment and crime-prediction software. But officers and a police union there say light punishment for motor crimes in Illinois and a pursuit policy that prevents cops from chasing vehicles driving erratically  out of fear of injuring bystanders  is playing a role in the carjacking surge.

Our mission is clear: we want to prevent carjackings and cars from being stolen to strengthen community safety, Emanuel said Sunday. As a challenge facing communities across the state, we are seeking to use the laws better and more effectively to give victims a better chance to get justice in court.

Legislation proposed by the group would make it easier for victims of car thefts to pursue Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle charges, which can carry up to a 7-year prison term.

Under current Illinois state law, police can only pursue those charges if they establish that someone driving a reported stolen vehicle has knowledge it was stolen, which can be difficult to prove, the mayors office says.

Because of that, the majority of car thieves in Chicago and the state are getting off with a lesser misdemeanor charge, it added.

Since January of last year, 74 percent of motor vehicle theft charges were filed as misdemeanor criminal trespass to vehicle, while only 21 percent were hit with the more serious Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle charge, according to statistics from the mayors office.

Whenever someones personal property and safety have been violated, we need to do whatever we can to ensure that they are made whole again, said Illinois state Rep. Jaime Andrade Jr. The legislation announced today will allow us to give some level of closure to victims and help us to reduce future incidents.

Emanuel and Johnson also announced Sunday that police cruisers are being outfitted with license plate readers. The changes come about a week after police in Chicago said they were teaming up with federal authorities, including agents from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, to deal with the carjacking surge.A deadly plane crash in Russia Sunday that left 71 people dead was captured on surveillance footage which appeared to show the moment the An-148 crashed in a ball of fire just minutes after it took off.

From a distance, the security video showed the moment Saratov Airlines Flight 703 plunged into a field nearly 25 miles out from Domodedovo Airport, where it had taken off from only moments before.

The Antonov An-148 regional jet disappeared from radar about 12 miles southeast of the airport, according to flight-tracking website Flightradar24. A plane can disappear from radar when it gets too close to the ground to reflect radar signals.

Transport Minister Maxim Sokolov confirmed that none of the 65 passengers  ages 5 to 79  or six crew members survived.

RUSSIAN PLANE CRASH OUTSIDE MOSCOW LEAVES 71 DEAD

It was not immediately clear what caused the plane to crash, but weather conditions and pilot error were said to be among the possible reasons.

The crash left chunks of wreckage strewn across a field outside Moscow. A black box flight recorder from the airliner was found, although it was not immediately clear if it was the data or voice recorder.

Witnesses, according to Sky News, said they saw a burning plane falling from the sky.

One woman who lived nearby reportedly said: I felt a shock wave the windows shook.

Another witness told REN-TV that she left the house, saw the plane, an explosion was heard and the sky turned red.

The United States is deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of those on board Saratov Airlines Flight 703. We send our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Russia, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said.

Fox News Jennifer Bowman, Travis Fedschun and The Associated Press contributed to this report.A stunning discovery in London's River Thames forced officials to evacuate the nearby London City Airport on Sunday, after reports said an unexploded World War II-era bomb was found.

The ordnance was discovered at the George V Dock in North Woolwich during scheduled work at the airport just after 5 a.m. local time, authorities said in a news release.

The Royal Navy confirmed the nature of the device, police said. Sky News and other U.K.-based news outlets reported it was an unexploded bomb.

Police blocked off an area around the site that night as a precaution.

London City Airport tweeted Sunday that the airport has shut down while the ordnance is dealt with, adding, Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport until further notice.

Metropolitan Police and the Royal Navy were working to remove the historical item.One person was killed and at least 22 others, including children, were injured Monday when two trains collided in a "serious" accident in Austria, police said.

The passenger trains collided shortly before 1 p.m. in Niklasdorf, about 40 miles north of the city of Graz, near the towns station, Austrian police tweeted. Police spokesman Leo Josefus said one train hit the side of the other train.

One train also derailed during the crash.

A woman was killed in the collision, police said, citing rescue workers at the scene.

At least 22 people, including three children, were injured in the incident, though its unclear how serious the injuries were.

Austrian Federal Railways tweeted there was a serious accident near Niklasdorfs station and that rescue workers were heading to the scene.

Officials did not reveal what caused the collision.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Palestinian protest icon Ahed Tamimi is to go on trial before an Israeli military court for slapping and punching two Israeli soldiers in December in a case that has drawn wide criticism of Israel for prosecuting the teenager.

It has also underscored what Palestinians say constitutes legitimate resistance to Israel's rule, now in its 51st year after Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza Strip and east Jerusalem in 1967.

Israel has treated Tamimi's actions as a criminal offense, indicting her on charges of assault and incitement that could potentially lead to years in prison.

Tamimi's father, Bassem, told The Associated Press as he headed into the court on Tuesday that he comes "with no good expectations, because this a military court, and it's part of the Israeli military occupation."Just miles from the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea -- where some observers continue to fawn over Kim Jong Un's sister and North Korea's "smile diplomacy" -- a trio of Americans remain detained in the Hermit Kingdom.

Concern has only grown for the three Korean-Americans -- Kim Hak Song, Kim Dong Chul and Tony Kim -- since the death of American college student Otto Warmbier last June after the he spent 17 months locked away in North Korea. And though advocates said they were given some hope during President Trumps State of the Union address, when the image of a North Korean defector defiantly holding his crutches in the air was met with rapturous applause, there's also a desire to see continued action and pressure applied against the rogue regime.

My mom, my brother and I miss our dad so much. Were so worried about him and his health, said Sol Kim, whose father, Tony Kim, has been held by North Korea for about nine months.

In a Facebook video, Sol said the separation has caused "hard days for our family."

My family and I long to make contact with my dad," he said. "We want to tell him that hes soon going to be a grandfather. My brother and sister are [each] expecting their first child.

While the broadcast of the Winter Olympics is a chance to see the sporting world's finest for some, for Sol, it's a constant reminder of his father.

As I watch the news about the Olympics I know my dad is being held just miles away from there, he said. It makes me wonder if theres an opportunity for the U.S. government to press harder for the release of my dad, and all three Americans.

Kim family spokesperson Randall Brandt told Fox News that, "while we cheer for our American Olympic athletes," the Americans being detained are first and foremost on the family's minds.

"While the challenges are great in the region, we think that a humanitarian resolution to the three Americans being detained in North Korea would be an important step in the right direction, Brandt said.

To that end, the Trump administration has been working to secure the release of Tony Kim and the others held by North Korea, State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert told Fox News.

We have seen the video released by Tony Kims son, Nauert said. We are working to see U.S. citizens who are detained in North Korea come home as soon as possible.

A LOOK AT AMERICANS DETAINED IN NORTH KOREA IN RECENT YEARS

The State Department noted that Ambassador Joseph Yun, the special representative for North Korean policy, met with the three Americans in North Korea in June, when Warmbier was released. No U.S. representative has seen them since.

The three detained Americans, ranging in age from 55 to 64, are being held on a variety of vaguely described offenses:

Tony Kim

Tony Kim, also known as Kim Sang Duk, 59, was detained by North Korean authorities at Pyongyang International Airport on April 22, 2017. Kim was teaching at Pyongyang University of Science and Technology. South Korean news agency Yonhap reported Tony also engaged in humanitarian work in the North, helping orphanages. In May 2017, Tony Kim was allegedly accused of committing criminal acts of hostility aimed to overturn [North Korea].

Kim Hak Song

Like Tony, Kim Hak Song, 55, also worked at Pyongyang University of Science and Technology before his detention on May 6, 2017 over unspecified crimes. The school is the only privately funded university in North Korea and is unique for having a large number of foreign staff. He was detained on suspicion of committing hostile acts against the countrys government. Pyongyang University of Science and Technology said Kim was doing agricultural development work with the universitys agricultural farm.

Kim Dong Chul

Korean-American, Kim Dong Chul, 64, was arrested in October 2015 and is now serving a 10-year term with hard labor for alleged espionage. Its been reported that Chul was a pastor, and in his public "confession," Kim said he was a spy for the South Korea intelligence service and was trying to spread Christianity among North Koreans.

NORTH KOREAN DEFECTOR DESCRIBES LIFE OF HELL FOR CHRISTIANSIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu walked back his own statement Monday about recent discussions with the White House about annexation of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

A senior White House staffer had denied such discussions about Israels West Bank settlements, seen as a complicating factor for peace, had taken place. Reports that the United States discussed with Israel an annexation plan for the West Bank are false. The United States and Israel have never discussed such a proposal, and the presidents focus remains squarely on his Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative, said Josh Raffel, a White House spokesman.

A statement issued by the prime ministers office Monday evening clarified that, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu updated the Americans on the initiatives being raised in the Knesset, and the Americans expressed their unequivocal position that they are committed to advancing President Trumps peace plan.

Hours earlier, Netanyahu announced that he has been in talks with the White House on a historic initiative to annex Israeli settlement areas in the West Bank. I can tell you that for a while now Ive been talking about it with the Americans, Netanyahu said during a Likud faction meeting in the Knesset, Israels unicameral parliament. Im guided by two principles in this issue  optimal coordination with the Americans, whose relationship with us is a strategic asset for Israel and the settlement movement  and the fact that it must be a government initiative rather than a private one because it would be a historic move.

President Donald Trump, in an interview published Sunday in the Israel Hayom daily newspaper, expressed concerns about Israeli settlement building, which the Palestinians and most of the international community view as illegal obstacles to peace. The Trump White House has been less publicly critical of Israels settlement building than previous administrations, including that of his predecessor, Barack Obama.

Trumps comments about Israel mark rare criticism from a president who publicly has sparred with the Palestinians while forging warm ties with Israel ahead of the expected presentation of a U.S. peace outline.

Israel Hayom is owned by American billionaire Sheldon Adelson, a Trump backer and a supporter of Netanyahu.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.The Russian military announced Monday the successful test of a new anti-missile rocket designed to help protect Moscow from any incoming threats.

The tests of interceptor missiles for the A-135 Anti-Ballistic Missile system were conducted at the Sary-Shagan site in Kazakhstan, according to the military.

The deputy commander of the Air and Space Defense Alliance, Andrei Prikhodko, told Russian newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda the upgraded air defense missiles are capable of intercepting single and multiple strikes, including new generation intercontinental ballistic missiles.

"We have successfully test fired a new upgraded air defense missile," Prikhodko told the paper. "The missiles tactical and technical characteristics regarding the range, precision and operational lifetime are significantly higher compared to present-day weapons."

PENTAGON ANNOUNCES PLAN TO EXPAND NUCLEAR ARSENAL IN FACE OF RUSSIAN THREAT

Russian news agency Sputnik News said the new missiles will be added to the existing anti-ballistic missile system that became operational in 1995 and is run by the Russian Aerospace Forces

The tests of the defense system come after Lithuania's president said last week that Russia has deployed additional nuclear-capable missiles in its Baltic Sea exclave of Kaliningrad on a permanent basis, with the president calling the missiles a threat to Europe.

President Dalia Grybauskaite told reporters after visiting NATO troops in the central Lithuanian town of Rukla that "Iskander missiles are being stationed in Kaliningrad for permanent presence as we speak." She called it a threat not only to Lithuania but to "half of all European countries."

RUSSIAN MILITARY CONDUCTS MASSIVE MISSILE DRILLS

The head of the Russian parliament's defense committee, Vladimir Shamanov, confirmed the missiles' deployment in remarks carried by Russian news agencies. He added the move was a response to a NATO buildup near Russia's borders, with the number of U.S. weapons in Poland a particular irritation to Moscow.

The high-precision Iskander missiles deployed in Kaliningrad can be fitted with a conventional or a nuclear warhead and have a range of up to 500 310 miles. In the past, Moscow deployed them to Kaliningrad temporarily for military drills.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.A suspected poacher was reportedly mauled by lions during the weekend after police officers found a man's half-eaten body in a South African reserve.

The gruesome discovery occurred in a private nature reserve just outside Kruger National Park in South Africa, TimesLIVE reported Monday.

The police in Hoedspruit outside Phalaborwa are investigating an inquest case after a 46-year-old man was attacked and killed by lions near Hoedspruit Limpopo police said in a statement.

Police added: His half lifeless body was saved after the lions were scared off by gun shots."

Police believe the man may have been a poacher since a hunting rifle was found nearby. Authorities are still attempting to identify the man and are asking any family members to come forward with information.

The wild lion population in Africa has steadily dropped in years, with fewer than 23,000 believed to be left, according to African Wildlife Foundation.Turkey's foreign minister is assailing the United States, claiming American forces in Syria are intentionally stalling the fight against Islamic State militants as an excuse not to cut ties with Syrian Kurdish fighters as Ankara has demanded.

Mevlut Cavusoglu says U.S. forces are leaving "pockets" with IS militants intact to justify continued cooperation with the Kurdish militia.

Cavusoglu says ties with the U.S. are "at a critical stage" and that Washington needs to take "concrete steps" to regain Turkey's trust.

Ankara is riled over Washington's support for the Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units, or YPG  the top U.S. ally in the anti-IS fight. Turkey considers the YPG a "terrorist" group linked to Kurdish insurgents within Turkey.

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is due in Ankara later this week.ABCNews.com(MIAMI) -- Jocelyn Morfii married the love of her life -- and was fired by the Catholic school where she taught.



Morfii, who worked as an elementary school teacher at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School in Miami for seven years, was terminated Thursday -- one day after marrying another woman in Key Largo, ABC station WPLG reported.



In a letter by the school principal Carlota Morales, she informed parents of the "difficult and necessary decision" to let go of Morfii.



The short letter named the teacher but omitted details as to why Morfii was no longer a member the Saints Peter and Paul faculty.



It simply stated that "she is no longer teaching at our school."



But a day after Morfii was dismissed, she posted an Instagram message that explained her side: "This weekend I married the love of my life and unfortunately I was terminated from my job as a result... In their eyes, I'm not the right kind of Catholic for my choice of partner."



A Miami Archdiocese spokeswoman concluded that Morfii "broke the contract she signed when she began teaching at a Catholic school."



That contract, acquired by ABC News, includes a "Standards of Conduct" section that suggests every employee must "conduct themselves in a moral and ethical manner consistent with Catholic principles."



It goes on to warn that "because of the Church's particular function in society, certain conduct, inconsistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church, could lead to disciplinary action, including termination, even if it occurs outside the normal working day and outside the strict confines of work performed by the employee for the Archdiocese."



"The way they handled this was just unbelievable," Christina Lopez, whose son was one of Morfii's students, said while standing next to other outraged parents who assembled outside the school on Friday morning.



"You know, to be a Catholic, you're taught to be forgiving. But if you're gay, forget about it," said Cynthia Cini, another parent. "Love is love."



Morfii's attorney, Erica Canas, told WPLG she is weighing a possible legal recourse.

Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.Kim Jong Uns sister may have turned on the charm during her visit to the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics  but her idea of unification between North and South Korea isnt as peaceful as her "smile diplomacy" leads some observers to believe.

Kim Yo Jong, labeled by the Souths media as Kim Jong Uns Ivanka, returned to Pyongyang Sunday night after a three-day visit as part of the Norths high-level delegation. Regime newspaper Rodong Sinmun dubbed the Olympics visit as being meaningful and important in improving relations between the rival countries. Kim Yo Jong even wrote of her wishes for closer ties in a guest book at South Koreas presidential office.

"I expect Pyongyang and Seoul to get closer in the hearts of our [Korean] people and the future of unification and prosperity will be advanced," Kim wrote in Korean in the guest book, according to Yonhap News Agency.

But the future of unification phrase means something far more sinister for the despot and his regime. North Korea has touted unification as a final victory to the Korean War that ended in an armistice in 1953. In Pyongyangs view, "unification" means Kims brutal dictatorship would overcome the Souths government.

However, South Korea sees unification as the Norths government being integrated into the South, diminishing Kims power -- something which doesn't appear to be in the cards in the near future.

Kim Jong Un may also be attempting to fool the South and the world into believing his regime is charming and peaceful because he wants mounting international sanctions removed.

Kim Jong-un is merely trying to use the South Korean government as a shield to protect him against intensifying international pressure, and he thinks the most effective way to do that would be to hold an inter-Korean summit, Chosun Ilbo stated, noting Kim Yo Jong invited South Korean President Moon Jae-in to visit the North.

Moon left the invitation open, saying lets create the conditions to make it possible."

Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono also warned about falling for Kim Yo Jongs smile diplomacy during the Winter Olympic meetings, Japan Times reported.

Without being swayed by smile diplomacy, Japan will firmly coordinate with [the United States and South Korea] toward the ultimate goal of denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula, Kono said.

Kono added Japan is committed to preventing Kim Jong Un from using Asian nations as a loophole to evade the crippling sanctions against his regime.

And if his goals were in any doubt, the dictator held a military parade on the eve of the Olympics opening ceremony. The main display came when launcher trucks rolled into the square with the Hwasong-14 and Hwasong-15 intercontinental ballistic missiles  which the North claims can reach U.S. soil. The Hwasong-12 intermediate range missile also made an appearance.

Kim also said in a speech the parade marks the regimes uprising as a "global military power" despite facing the "worst sanctions."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.Free Freightnet Membership

List your company in the Freightnet directory. It's Free, it's Easy and your company can be displayed in front of potential freight buyers within 24 hours.NEWS

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The company revealed it is divesting its grain trading business, suggesting its place in the grain market is no longer realistic.

A statement stressed the business had no liquidity or solvency issues and was fully cross-guaranteed by JE & VM Dalton (which trades as Dalton Seeds), a business with net assets in excess of 7m.

See also: Grain market prices

This means all creditors will be paid on time and in full.

However, the shareholders have agreed in principle that Cefetra will take on the stock and forward book  an agreement expected to be finalised and executed during February.

Sad day

Managing director of JE & VM Dalton, Peter Fox, said: Given that our grain business has been in existence for over 40 years, naturally this is a sad day.

We are fully committed to UK agriculture and have done everything we can to avoid this day, but given the structure of the market place, have had to finally accept that our involvement in grain is no longer realistic.

Speaking to Farmers Weekly, company director Matthew Dalton said while it had been a painful decision, the shareholders had been keen to come out of grain trading in a managed way, so avoiding any risk to creditors.

Wellgrain quite clearly did not manage that and we did not want to get into the situation they were in, he said.

We made sure we took this decision long before it had an impact on the balance sheet and werent able to come out of it in an orderly fashion.

Mr Dalton said as a smaller merchant they had found it nigh on impossible to make enough of a margin for the numbers to stack up.

Market conditions for anybody are particularly challenging. The Openfield financial figures bear that out and they are not a small business, he said.

I would be very surprised if there isnt further significant consolidation [in the grain market] in 2018.

Dalmark Grain has been trading 200,000250,000t of grain on an annual basis, dealing with 500-1,000 farmers.

Cefetra is now one of the leading agricultural traders within the UK with a trading volume of more than 4m tonnes of grain and products per year.

It acquired Wessex Grain in 2015 and announced in December 2017 that it had also struck a deal to buy specialty crop merchant Premium Crops.The value of UK food and drink exports reached record levels in 2017, growing by 10% to reach 22bn.

Government figures show that UK food and drink businesses are now selling their products to 217 countries, with total exports now worth double what they were a decade ago.

Beer, gin, milk, cream, cheese, chocolate, salmon, pork and whisky are among the products driving the increase over the past 12 months.

See also: Trading with China: practical tips and resources

During 2017, sales of milk and cream increased by 61%, salmon by 23% and pork by 14%.

The UK also sent 85m worth of cheese to France, 21m of chocolate to Belgium and even 2m of tea to China between January and December 2017.

Policy plank

Growing food exports has been a key plank of governments agricultural policy over the past five years, with Prime Minister Theresa May recently visiting China to help forge new trading relationships post-Brexit.

Defra secretary Michael Gove said the figures demonstrated how farmers, fishermen and food processors were helping to deliver a Brexit bonus.

Contrary to the constant negativity of the doom-mongers, the British economy is going from strength to strength showing that a Green Brexit can deliver for the whole country, he said.

Defra said the increase in sales showed a clear desire for British food products, which were highly regarded because of their provenance and quality.

The growing hunger for UK produce revealed the huge opportunities for producers and manufacturers as the UK prepares to leave the European Union.

Much at stake

But Fergus Ewing, Scottish rural affairs minister, said while the figures were something to celebrate, they also were a stark reminder of what was at stake if the UK lost free trade access to the EU market.

Europe is the top export market for salmon and Scotch whisky in terms of both value and volume.

We will continue to do all we can to support and protect our food and drink sector, which faces growing uncertainty in the labour and export markets as a result of Brexit, which poses a direct threat to this success by removing Scotland from the worlds biggest single market, and its consumer base of almost half a billion people, said Mr Ewing.

In addition 10,000 EU nationals work in our food and drink industry, which exports more than 2bn to Europe through the single market each year.Scottish farmers are being encouraged to sign up to one of three roadshows designed to help them identify proactive steps they can take to prepare for Brexit.

The AHDB, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and Scotlands Rural College (SRUC) are joining forces to run three events during February and March.

They will feature expert speakers from each organisation, who will outline the latest thinking on policy, the potential implications and where opportunities might lie for producers.

See also: Outlook 2018: farm policy will be dictated by Brexit deals

The free evening events will begin in the North on 21 February at Thainstone House Hotel, Aberdeenshire, before moving down to Airth Castle, Stirlingshire, on 22 February.

The final event will take place on 8 March in the South West at the Woodland Bay Hotel outside Girvan, South Ayrshire.

Sarah Baker, senior AHDB analyst, said: Well be highlighting some of the main findings from our Horizon series at the events, focusing on our joint report with SRUC and QMS on the implications of Brexit on Scotland.

Proactive steps

I see our work as a call to action as we know from our research that the top 25% of performers in all sectors, regardless of size, will remain viable in all our post-Brexit scenarios, and there is plenty that farm businesses can do now to mitigate the potential effects of Brexit.

Douglas Bell, head of industry development at QMS, added: The current uncertainty can make forward planning seem particularly daunting, but in fact there are lots of proactive steps farmers could be taking in the coming months.

The meeting will offer an opportunity to explore some of the steps that farmers can take now, to help ensure their businesses are best placed to rise to challenges and take advantage of opportunities.

The free events are expected to run from 7pm-9.30pm with refreshments provided.

Anyone wishing to attend can contact Sarah Hunter-Argyle on 07391 408 808 or at sarah.hunterargyle@ahdb.org.uk.Galveston, TX (77553)

Today

Tropical storm conditions likely. Rain showers along with windy conditions. High 82F. SW winds at 40 to 60 mph, decreasing to 25 to 35 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low around 75F. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph.KEFLAVIK, Iceland  (Associated Press) - Iceland is expected to use more energy mining bitcoins and other virtual currencies this year than it uses to power its homes.

With massive amounts of electricity needed to run the computers that create bitcoins, large virtual currency companies have established a base in the North Atlantic island nation blessed with an abundance of renewable energy.

The new industrys relatively sudden growth prompted lawmaker Smari McCarthy of Icelands Pirate Party to suggest taxing the profits of bitcoin mines. The initiative is likely to be well received by Icelanders, who are skeptical of speculative financial ventures after the countrys catastrophic 2008 banking crash.

Under normal circumstances, companies that are creating value in Iceland pay a certain amount of tax to the government, McCarthy told The Associated Press. These companies are not doing that, and we might want to ask ourselves whether they should.

The energy demand has developed because of the soaring cost of producing and collecting virtual currencies. Computers are used to make the complex calculations that verify a running ledger of all the transactions in virtual currencies around the world.

In return, the miners claim a fraction of a coin not yet in circulation. In the case of bitcoin, a total of 21 million can be mined, leaving about 4.2 million left to create. As more bitcoin enter circulation, more powerful computers are needed to keep up with the calculations  and that means more energy.

The serene coastal town of Keflavik on Icelands desolate southern peninsula has over the past months boomed as an international hub for mining bitcoins and other virtual currencies.

Local fishermen, chatting over steaming cups of coffee at the harbor gas station, are puzzled by the phenomenon, which has spawned oversize construction sites on the outskirts of town.

Among the main attractions of setting up bitcoin mines at the edge of the Arctic Circle is the natural cooling for computer servers and the competitive prices for Icelands abundance of renewable energy from geothermal and hydroelectric power plants.

Johann Snorri Sigurbergsson, a business development manager at the energy company Hitaveita Sudurnesja, said he expected Icelands virtual currency mining to double its energy consumption to about 100 megawatts this year. That is more than households use on the island nation of 340,000, according to Icelands National Energy Authority.

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Four months ago, I could not have predicted this trend  but then bitcoin skyrocketed and we got a lot more emails, he said at the Svartsengi geothermal energy plant, which powers the southwestern peninsula where the mining takes place.

Just today, I came from a meeting with a mining company seeking to buy 18 megawatts, he said.

At the largest of three bitcoin farms currently operating within Keflavik  called Mjolnir after the hammer of Thor, the Norse god of thunder  high metal fences surround 50 meter-long (164 foot) warehouse buildings stacked with computer rigs.

The data centers here are specially designed to utilize the constant wind on the bare peninsula. Walls are only partial on each side, allowing a draft of cold air to cool down the equipment.

What we are doing here is like gold mining, said Helmut Rauth, who manages operations for Genesis Mining, a major bitcoin mining company. We are mining on a large scale and getting the gold out to the people.

Genesis Mining, founded in Germany, moved to Iceland in 2014 when the price of bitcoin fluctuated from $350 to $1000.

Today, one bitcoin is valued at about $8,000, according to tracking site Coindesk, after peaking at almost $19,500 in December.

The currency took a hit in January when China announced it would move to wipe out its bitcoin mining industry, following concerns of excessive electricity consumption.

Rauth said bitcoin should not be singled out as environmentally taxing. Computing power always demands energy, he argues.

How much energy is needed for credit card transactions and internet research? Cryptocurrencies have the same global impact, he said.

In the capital, Reykjavik, some are more skeptical about bitcoin.

The last time Iceland was an international hub for finance, the venture ended with a giant bank crash, making the country one of the symbols of the 2008 global financial crisis.

The political turmoil following the crash swept the upstart Pirate Party into Icelands parliament, where it currently holds 10 percent of seats.

Pirate Party legislator McCarthy has questioned the value of bitcoin mining for Icelandic society, saying residents should consider regulating and taxing the emerging industry.

We are spending tens or maybe hundreds of megawatts on producing something that has no tangible existence and no real use for humans outside the realm of financial speculation, he said. That cant be good.Emil Kjaer of the Royal Danish Yacht Club, and Americans Jeffrey Petersen and David Wood secured the final three spots after coming in first, second and third respectively in the 2021 Ficker Cup, which was this past weekend in Long...Treading lightly on Tanna We go on a new ecotourism adventure tour in North TannaDamn! Well... So much for my visiting New York. Reckon I'll have to find something else to tide me over?felicilin at 12-02-2018 10:58 AM (3 years ago) (f)

A man in southern Cambodia was arrested on his wedding day after criticising the government on Facebook, local media reported on Monday.

A man in southern Cambodia was arrested on his wedding day after criticising the government on Facebook, local media reported on Monday. San Rotha was arrested while in the shower and then interrogated over the weekend by a prosecutor and a judge in Kampong Cham province, a spokesperson for a rights watchdog told the Phnom Penh Post.

The 29-year-old had allegedly posted a video on the social media platform in which he stated the government was authoritarian, the Cambodian Human Rights and Development Associations (ADHOC) Mean Prom Mony told the Post.

The association said the warrant for his arrest accused him of public insult of the leader and public defamation.

The spokesman for the Kampong Cham Provincial Court, Hout Vuthy, told the Post that Rotha was being questioned for alleged public insult and for incitement.

Vuthy was not able to give specific details of the charges.

We are interrogating [him] and I dont know whether [the case] will be dismissed or not, he told the newspaper.

The incident came amid a crackdown on criticism of Prime Minister Hun Sen, which human rights experts have said is meant to solidify the strongmans grip on power ahead of upcoming elections.

Cambodias shameless crackdown now includes arresting a man in the shower getting ready for his wedding day, Human Rights Watch Asias Deputy Director, Phil Robertson, said on Monday.

Prime Minister Hun Sen cant tolerate even the mildest online criticism as he busies himself with setting up his sham election. San Rotha was arrested while in the shower and then interrogated over the weekend by a prosecutor and a judge in Kampong Cham province, a spokesperson for a rights watchdog told the Phnom Penh Post.The 29-year-old had allegedly posted a video on the social media platform in which he stated the government wasthe Cambodian Human Rights and Development Associations (ADHOC) Mean Prom Mony told the Post.The association said the warrant for his arrest accused him ofThe spokesman for the Kampong Cham Provincial Court, Hout Vuthy, told the Post that Rotha was being questioned for alleged public insult and for incitement.Vuthy was not able to give specific details of the charges.he told the newspaper.The incident came amid a crackdown on criticism of Prime Minister Hun Sen, which human rights experts have said is meant to solidify the strongmans grip on power ahead of upcoming elections.

Post Reply Posted: at 12-02-2018 10:58 AM (3 years ago) | HeroThe content you are looking for has either been removed or requires you to login to view

Please login below or register for an account With Naijapals.comAngry Mob Disgrace SARS Officers After Causing Accident While Chasing A Suspected Yahoo Boy (Video)

felicilin at 12-02-2018 02:42 PM (3 years ago) (f)

Some operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigerian Police Force, were on Saturday, February 10, ridiculed by angry residents of Ekhueniro, in Benin city, Edo state, after they allegedly caused an accident while chasing a man they mistook for an internet fraudster.

Some operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigerian Police Force, were on Saturday, February 10, ridiculed by angry residents of Ekhueniro, in Benin city, Edo state, after they allegedly caused an accident while chasing a man they mistook for an internet fraudster.



Post Reply Posted: at 12-02-2018 02:42 PM (3 years ago) | Hero

Henrybobo at 12-02-2018 03:02 PM (3 years ago)

(m) All these uniform men no go channel there energy nd attention to d people disturbing d peace in Nigeria like d fulani herdsmen nd co, na to they harass innocent nd harmless people for road dem sabi.. Posted: at 12-02-2018 03:02 PM (3 years ago) | Gistmaniac All these uniform men no go channel there energy nd attention to d people disturbing d peace in Nigeria like d fulani herdsmen nd co, na to they harass innocent nd harmless people for road dem sabi.. Reply

cypanyahucha at 12-02-2018 03:03 PM (3 years ago)

(m) Suspected? Hope no life is lost Posted: at 12-02-2018 03:03 PM (3 years ago) | Gistmaniac Suspected? Hope no life is lost Reply

ruthie at 12-02-2018 03:39 PM (3 years ago)

(f) bunch of jokers! Posted: at 12-02-2018 03:39 PM (3 years ago) | Hero bunch of jokers! Reply

nature7888 at 12-02-2018 04:21 PM (3 years ago)

(m) na wow. Posted: at 12-02-2018 04:21 PM (3 years ago) | Gistmaniac na wow. Reply

Wazubia at 12-02-2018 05:38 PM (3 years ago)

(m) IT IS WELL Posted: at 12-02-2018 05:38 PM (3 years ago) | Gistmaniac IT IS WELL Reply

slimber at 12-02-2018 05:46 PM (3 years ago)

(f) Look at them everyday with different wahala Posted: at 12-02-2018 05:46 PM (3 years ago) | Hero Look at them everyday with different wahala ReplyAND what about our parade for the Vietnam vets?? 10 years late?? 1982. Nov. 13 Thousands of Vietnam veterans marched away from a decade of indifference today and paraded proudly past the White House to a memorial whose history recalls the divisiveness of their war.Disabled veterans hobbled along with canes, gamely responding to cadence counts; paraplegics wheeled themselves or were pushed; blind veterans listened to reports of what was happening from their friends, and an army of marchers and walkers, dressed in everything from baggy fatigues to camouflage suits to full-dress uniforms or sport jackets, moved slowly along Constitution Avenue, waving tiny American flags and raising their fists in triumph.AND.... it was not the heroes' welcome, the ticker-tape parade with roaring crowds and an outpouring of gratitude, that many veterans openly long for. Long sections of the viewing stand were half empty, and some blocks along the 10-block parade route had but a single broken line of spectators on each side.''We Killed, We Bled, We Died for Worse Than Nothing.'' Former Marine, Peter PocciaOf course, as we all know, our C & C didn't kill, bleed or die, because HE got deferments...because of bone spurs in his....uhh...right...uh...maybe it was LEFT....or maybe it was BOTH heels?? He can't seem to remember.The marine environment is critical to Grenadas economy and closely linked to the islands income generating tourism sector. Grenadas tri-island ocean state is not just a hub of maritime activity, but also home to unique marine biodiversityIn the race to replace the internal combustion engine that propels most of the world's cars, trucks and buses with vehicles powered by electricity, one country stands out, and it might not be one that immediately comes to mind.It's not China, even though the sheer number of new plug-in electric vehicles sold there in 2017, 605,500, was the highest in the world, accounting for 2.6 percent of all vehicles purchased in the country. It's certainly not the United States, where EV sales checked in last year at just 1.1 percent. The undisputed leader is Norway, where fully 35 percent of new vehicles sold in 2017 -- and 52 percent of those sold in December alone -- were EVs.Looking at Norway's figures, one might believe that EVs are on a fast track to upend the century-long reign of fossil fuels as the dominant vehicular power source. That may very well be the case in Norway, where almost all electricity is generated from hydropower, EVs are exempted from most taxes, and their owners enjoy a range of benefits that can be worth thousands of dollars a year, including free recharging and use of toll roads along with free or subsidized parking. But what about the rest of the world? Experts' predictions are truly all over the map.Bloomberg New Energy Finance, for example, forecasts that "adoption of emission-free vehicles will happen more quickly than previously estimated because the cost of building cars is falling so fast." Electric cars, Bloomberg predicts, will outsell fossil-fuel-powered vehicles within two decades, turning the global auto industry upside down and creating economic turmoil for oil-exporting countries.That's a conservative forecast compared to the predictions of Tony Seba, author of the 2014 book, who argues that much larger forces are in play than just the cost of the vehicles. He says that the combination of digital and electricity-generating technologies will put an end to the conventional atom-based energy and transportation industries. His forecast: By 2030 all new mass-market vehicles will be electric and all new energy will be provided by solar or wind.More than most in the EV forecasting game, both Bloomberg and Seba focus on near-horizon advances in technology as the major factor affecting adoption rates. But there are many other forces at work. A 2015 report prepared for the University of Hawaii provides a range of EV adoption-rate forecasts for that state -- between 6 percent and 15 percent by 2040 -- based on numerous internal and external factors. Internal factors, as described in the report, are those under the control of vehicle manufacturers and include characteristics of the EV itself: not only purchase price but also battery costs, driving range and charging time. External factors include fuel prices, consumer characteristics, availability of charging stations, travel distance, public visibility, vehicle diversity and governmental policy incentives.EV support policies, regulations and incentives linked to California's decades-long campaign to improve its air quality are clearly the major factors underlying its leading position among the states for EV sales - 5 percent last year. Despite these efforts, however, the state still has the nation's worst health impacts from air pollution. Ramping up the state's air-quality campaign, last month Gov. Jerry Brown issued an executive order setting a new target of five million zero-emission vehicles by 2030. He proposed an eight-year, $2.5 billion initiative to help bring 250,000 electric-vehicle charging stations and 200 fueling stations for hydrogen-powered vehicles to the state by 2025.California already is home to about half of all EVs that have been sold in the U.S. Its continuing and intensifying efforts to build a strong EV market should serve as a model for other states and regions -- and perhaps even countries -- that want to improve their air quality and reduce their greenhouse-gas emissions.But whether California could ever come close to matching Norway's amazing EV sales numbers is anybody's guess. Perhaps Norway's success will turn out to be an exception, fueled by a unique set of circumstances in a small economically advantaged country. Or maybe, as the leading early adopter of EVs, it will provide the roadmap for the rest of the world. One thing is for sure: Anyone interested in the future of EVs will want to keep an eye on a small Scandinavian country where these vehicles seem poised to rule the roads.imaginethat said: As far as you went, I agree. Americans tend to make heroes of presdents of their own political persuasion. That's a given.



But, I laid out points specific to DJT, who is a one and only in the 20th and 21st centuries, and no one on the right has yet to explain why they support him even though he is culpable of the very same critiques they applied to Obama.



Why? Click to expand...

I'm going to add my two cents to the whole "Americans tend to make heroes of Presidents". There's a good reason for that. U.S. Presidents are supposed to be exceptional--extraordinary--remarkable. They are all those things because there are so few of them. They have superpowers that can be used to save us or destroy us. Our lives rest with them and with the people closest to them. They are God-like in that way. There's an unexplained loyalty to our presidents because they have risen to the highest rank possible (against all odds) and because we the people expect them to be smarter and wiser--brilliant speakers, economists, military geniuses, & of the highest integrity. They act as the ultimate father-figures.Our president will take care of us--all of us. He (or possibly SHE someday) will represent us in the international community. We want to be proud of the president--his appearance--his intelligence--his social skills--his ability to problem-solve and his resolve.There's a kinship among our presidents because ONLY THEY know the truth of the Oval Office. So here's story that I love.During his last moments in the White House, President Ronald Reagan scribbled a note that said: Dont let the turkeys get you down. He then slipped the note into the Oval Office desk and left it for his successor: President George H.W. Bush. Bush then left a note for Clinton, who left one for W, who left one for Obama. It is, to this day, the greatest private tradition of the US Presidency.Here's the letter from HW Bush to Bill Clinton.January 20, 1993HW was a Republican president, but I thought he was AWESOME--I really did. He was a gentleman in every sense. I loved his wife--our first lady. Sometimes we can truly adore a president across the aisle....just because of WHO he is.The majority of states now have the green light from Education Secretary Betsy DeVos to begin implementing a sweeping federal law passed in 2015 to replace the much-maligned No Child Left Behind law.But state and federal education policymakers are running into a surprising source of opposition: governors.Ms. DeVos has approved 35 plans, including those from Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C., that provide a road map for complying with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act, a bipartisan law passed under President Barack Obama that returns the reins of education reform to states. The law required every state education department to submit a plan.Of those 35, six are from states where the governor refused to sign on: Maryland, Georgia, Wisconsin, Missouri, Louisiana and New York. Three others that did not get a governors endorsement  those from Nebraska, Oklahoma and Kentucky  are pending approval.Of the nine disputed plans, seven are opposed by Republican governors.A question of domicile

Airlines are suing Washington state to avoid complying with the mandatory paid sick leave law that took effect Jan. 1.Airlines for America, a trade association that includes Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Parcel Service and others, argues that the paid sick leave mandate, when applied to Washington-based pilots and flight attendants who spend most of their working hours outside of Washington, is unconstitutional and contravenes the federal Airline Deregulation Act.It also claims airlines already provide paid sick leave benefits, negotiated through collective bargaining agreements, that in some ways are more generous than what Washington now requires.In 2016, Washington voters passed Initiative 1433, which, in addition to increasing the statewide minimum wage, requires all Washington employers to provide employees at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked. It allows employees to take leave for illness and healthcare needs _ both their own and those of their family members, including siblings  and to seek treatment or services related to domestic violence.In a lawsuit filed Tuesday in federal court in Tacoma, the airlines assert that the U.S. Constitution limits states' power to pass laws affecting interstate commerce, and that "(u)niformity in regulation of air carriers from one end of a route to another is a national necessity."Regulations requiring paid sick leave enacted by Washington and some 35 other state and local jurisdictions "impose different (and inconsistent) obligations on air carriers," the trade group says in its complaint. "For example, a flight crew departing from SeaTac International Airport, landing in Portland International Airport, and continuing to San Diego International Airport is subject to three different paid sick leave laws in a single duty period, each with its own accrual, compensation, reporting, and leave requirements."Flight attendants unions, local and national, pledged to fight the lawsuit, even though some acknowledged that they have better sick leave benefits than required in the Washington law.Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, said the suit has "no merit.""As long as airlines operate in the state, they are subject to state laws," Nelson said in a statement. "This is not the first time a local or state law has affected the industry."Gregory Unterseher, director of representation at the Airline Pilots Association Teamsters Local 1224, the union for pilots at carriers including Alaska-owned Horizon Air, said the lawsuit is "about the bottom line.""They're just trying not to have to pay this," Unterseher said. "Same thing with the $15 an hour wage thing that Alaska Airlines fought in SeaTac so hard and ended up having to live with."The state Department of Labor & Industries, the state agency charged with implementing and enforcing the paid sick leave law, and the defendant in the airlines' lawsuit, contends that the state's paid sick leave law applies to "Washington domiciled" employees.According to a footnote in the airlines' complaint, the state has said the law applies regardless of whether and for how long such employees work outside of the state, including in other jurisdictions with their own paid sick leave laws.An L&I spokesman said the lawsuit is under review by the Washington Attorney General's Office, which will determine the state's next steps. Spokesman Tim Church said airline industry representatives participated in the state's rule-making process for the paid sick leave law last year. They also sought technical assistance from the agency."We heard from airline industry representatives who wanted to know how we would interpret basic scenarios," he said. "We connected with them and provided that information."The question of where an employee is "domiciled" is a critical one for businesses such as airlines that operate nationally, facing a patchwork of wage and benefits requirements, taxation regimes, and other regulations. In the airline industry, it's common for people to commute to work across state lines or across the country.Does "domiciled" mean the airport from which a flight attendant or pilot is based, or does it mean his or her home address? The answer may change depending on the specific benefit or tax in question.The airlines would prefer a more uniform landscape, and argue that they're entitled to one under the federal law that deregulated the industry 39 years ago."The industry complies with comprehensive federal safety laws and regulations on work hours and staffing, including those related to duty period limitations, flight crew family medical leave, rest requirements, and aviation safety," Alison McAfee, communications director for Airlines for America, said in a statement.She added that airline flight crews are different from other employees, regularly working across state lines and in federal airspace, with schedules that hardly resemble those of a typical worker putting in 40 hours a week in one location. States, meanwhile, are implementing laws mandating meal breaks, sick leave, and other worker-friendly policies, often designed with the typical, stationary worker in mind.The lawsuit is part of the industry's effort to "ensure nationwide uniformity in regulation of air carriers," she added.Airlines have found other ways to deal with the patchwork of regulations. Until recently, Alaska provided to all flight attendants, regardless of their domicile, the most generous benefit required in any jurisdiction where any one flight attendant was based, said Jeffrey Peterson, president of the union representing Alaska Airlines flight attendants.Alaska referred questions to its trade group, which did not comment beyond its statement.A $500 million deal to sell Harvey Weinstein's troubled old studio to former Obama administration official Maria Contreras-Sweet hit a major roadblock over the weekend after the New York attorney general's office expressed serious concerns about the sale.New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman on Sunday sued Weinstein Co. and its co-founders, Harvey Weinstein and Bob Weinstein, for "egregious violations of New York's civil rights, human rights and business laws," the attorney general's office said in a statement."The Weinstein Co. repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation and discrimination," Schneiderman said in a statement. "Any sale of The Weinstein Co. must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched. Every New Yorker has a right to a workplace free of sexual harassment, intimidation and fear."The lawsuit, filed in New York County Supreme Court, jeopardizes the planned sale to Contreras-Sweet, which was backed by billionaire Ron Burkle's Yucaipa Cos. The buyer has been in negotiations with the Weinstein Co. for weeks. The Contreras-Sweet deal would give her control over the studio's assets. Her group has promised to set up a majority-female board and establish a fund to help women who have alleged abuse by Harvey Weinstein. Contreras-Sweet ran the U.S. Small Business Administration under President Barack Obama from 2014 to 2017.A deal was expected to be signed Sunday and announced this week, ending a protracted search for a buyer four months after sexual harassment and assault allegations against Harvey Weinstein sent the New York company into a tailspin. Authorities in Los Angeles, New York and London have launched criminal investigations into the allegations against Weinstein. He has denied claims that he engaged in nonconsensual sex with women.The company is facing multiple other lawsuits, including a class-action case filed in November that accused the studio of enabling Weinstein's alleged predatory behavior.Schneiderman's office launched its civil rights investigation into Weinstein Co. in October, shortly after allegations of sexual misconduct were detailed in The New York Times and the New Yorker. Schneiderman issued a subpoena for company documents as part of an investigation into whether officials at the film and television company violated state civil rights and New York City human rights laws.The New York Daily News on Saturday first reported that Schneiderman's office was preparing to sue Weinstein Co.The 38-page complaint alleges that the Weinstein Co. board of directors and executives failed to protect employees or curb Harvey Weinstein's misconduct, despite widespread knowledge of his behavior and numerous complaints to the company's human resources department. Groups of predominantly female employees, described in the complaint as members of Harvey Weinstein's "roster" or his "wing women," were made to facilitate Weinstein's sexual conquests, the suit says.Representatives for Weinstein Co., Yucaipa and Contreras-Sweet declined to comment.Schneiderman's office also expressed deep concerns about whether the new company that results from the planned sale will make good on its promise to compensate victims beyond what would normally be paid through insurance. It also raised worries about the future leadership of the studio.The attorney general's office said in its statement that it has "substantive basis" to believe the sale would "leave victims without adequate redress, including a lack of a sufficient victims compensation fund."The office "also believes that the proposed terms of the sale would allow the perpetrators or enablers of the misconduct to see a windfall, and allow top officials at TWC who share responsibility for the misconduct to serve in executive positions of the new entity," according to the statement.Schneiderman's office has questioned the possible appointment of Weinstein Co. President and Chief Operating Officer David Glasser as chief executive because he served as Harvey Weinstein's right-hand man for years and essentially ran the business, according to a person familiar with the matter.A representative for Glasser declined to comment.According to a document reviewed by the Los Angeles Times, the attorney general's office has been seeking assurances that the company will establish a fund that will adequately compensate accusers. The office has also demanded that the company put into escrow any proceeds from the sale that would go to Harvey Weinstein or his brother, Bob, who co-founded the studio in 2005.Schneiderman's office has also demanded oversight over the company as part of the purchase agreement to ensure that the new company takes adequate steps to protect employees. Contreras-Sweet balked at the demand for government oversight, said two people familiar with the matter who were not authorized to comment."We expressed to them how important it is that any deal adequately compensate victims, protect employees, and not reward those who enabled or perpetuated this egregious sexual misconduct," said Amy Spitalnick, press secretary for the office of the New York attorney general, in an emailed statement. "We were surprised to learn they were not serious about discussing any of those issues or even sharing the most basic information about how they planned to address them."If a deal is not reached, Weinstein Co. may be forced into bankruptcy. The financial burden and mounting legal threats against the company led many industry veterans to say the studio would have to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection or shut down. Weinstein Co. tried and failed to secure financial lifelines from investors such as Thomas Barrack's Colony Capital and private equity firm Fortress.Santa Monica, Calif.-based studio Lionsgate, known for "La La Land" and "The Hunger Games," was interested in buying certain assets of the company. Killer Content, the New York production company behind "Carol" and "Still Alice," had offered to buy the assets and remake them into an entity to support women. Other bidders included Miramax (owned by BeIN Media) and private equity firms Shamrock Capital Advisors and Vine Alternative Investments.Contreras-Sweet's offer would not require a Chapter 11 bankruptcy process. Under the terms of the proposal, her group would assume $225 million in debt and establish a fund worth $50 million to $60 million for Weinstein's accusers, according to people close to the deal.In early December last year, a reporter for walked into the Seattle offices of Facebook, printouts of the city code in hand, to ask for detailed information about online ad purchases for the city's 2017 elections.Two months later, the city is on the brink of fining Facebook for failing to turn over the requested information. Its the first attempt by any state or locality to enforce its political advertising disclosure lawson a social media company. Facebook is facing a $5,000 penalty per ad.According to experts in campaign finance and advertising disclosure, this is likely just the beginning of states and cities' attempts to crack down on the secrecy surrounding political ads on the internet.Part of the reason we havent seen anything like [the Seattle case] before is because digital political ads are a relatively new phenomenon, says Brendan Fischer, director of Federal and FEC Reform at the Campaign Legal Center.Fischer points to the massive jumps in political ad spending in just the last few election cycles: from $22.3 million in 2008 to $159.8 million in 2012, all the way to $1.4 billion in 2016.[Digital political advertising] is growing exponentially, he says. So I would suspect that we will see more states and municipalities requiring transparency from digital advertisers.According to Michael Malbin, executive director of the Campaign Finance Institute, 39 states require some form of disclosure of sponsors within the body of the ad, but its not clear which of them -- if any -- could be applied to online media companies.Online political ads became a hot-button issue shortly after the 2016 election, when Facebook revealed that a shadowy Russian company connected to the Kremlin had purchased $100,000 worth of ads. The disclosure laid bare a large and growing blindspot in federal campaign finance policy: The law that regulates ad disclosures for broadcasters does not apply to tech companies like Facebook, Google and Twitter.In Seattle, though, state and local law polices what federal law doesn't.Both Seattle and Washington state's campaign finance laws require any entity accepting and disseminating political ads to disclose the names and addresses of the people providing the ads, the amount of money paid for them and the exact nature and extent of the advertising services rendered. Unlike federal law, Seattle and Washington's apply not just to broadcasters but to any means of mass communication."Advertisers must keep books of account for the public to inspect, says Kim Bradford, a spokesperson for the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission (PDC).She says that the PDCs staff has come to believe state law, like Seattles local ordinance, is applicable to online media companies. The state has yet to make any requests of Facebook, but we are watching whats going on in Seattle, says Bradford.Until last month, no one in the state appeared to realize the law applied to tech companies -- or at least no one realized they werent complying. It wasnt until Eli Sanders, a reporter for, requested the information from Facebook, Google and Twitter that their noncompliance came to the attention of the Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission. Facebook and Google responded to Sanders' emails but rejected his requests. But Twitter, according to candidate campaign disclosures, did not receive any political ad money for last years city elections, which has exempted the company from the current controversy.On Dec. 12, a few days after Sanders story published, Wayne Barnett, executive director of the disclosure commission, sent letters to Facebook and Google asking them to comply with the citys advertising disclosure law before Jan. 2. Both companies later received a 30-day extension.Google has requested another extension, which Barnett says is pending. Facebook, meanwhile, submitted a spreadsheet of information that includes the amounts paid for ads, Barnett says, but does not include anything on the exact nature and extent of the ads, as required by law. (Moreover, Sanderswrote last week that the spreadsheet is full of inconsistencies .)This is not adequate, so the next step is either an enforcement action or some further opportunity for them to comply, Barnett says. We first made this request in early December, so its been a long time already. Im not sure it makes sense to provide them with additional time.For its part, Facebook believes it has done its duty.Facebook is a strong supporter of transparency in political advertising. In response to a request from the Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission, we were able to provide relevant information, Will Castleberry, a Facebook vice president, told Reuters At the federal level, legislators have been debating how to modernize campaign laws since the extent of Russian meddling in the 2016 election became apparent. In both the Senate and the House, a bipartisan bill called the Honest Ads Act would bring Facebook, Google and other online ad hosts under federal regulations like those that apply to broadcasters. But the bill has been inching along slowly and is still awaiting a committee vote in both chambers.The Federal Elections Commission also recently said it will begin drafting rules about political ads on social media -- but only for ads for specific candidates, excluding so-called issues ads involving specific issues like gun control or abortion. Thats significant because many of the ads bought by Russians in 2016 were issues ads While most of the discussion about election meddling has focused on federal campaigns, Fischer says he wouldnt rule out the possibility of foreign nationals trying to use their money to influence outcomes in state and local races. He points to a case in San Diego , where a wealthy Mexican businessman was illegally donating money to city candidates he thought might be friendly to his development schemes.Events like these, and the growing power and influence of digital political advertisements, mean that states and localities have a vested interest in increasing transparency, Fischer says.Local governments are going to realize there are transparency gaps in the law, he says. There are many opportunities for state and local governments to step in here.Employer Liability

The Slow Reveal

When Pennsylvania state Rep. Thomas Caltagirone was accused of harassing a staff member, the Legislature settled the matter outside of court. The states insurance paid out $250,000 in 2015, and no one said a word  even during the next years elections, when Caltagirone retained his seat.This secret settlement is one of many involving state lawmakers or legislative aides that have been exposed in the last few months, as a wave of sexual misconduct allegations has flooded the country. And in state after state, the allegations of wrongdoing quietly went away after victims received payouts from public funds.The revelation that legislatures frequently use taxpayer money to protect lawmakers and staff accused of harassment or assault has sparked outrage and prompted reporters to try to tally up the bill.The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette exposed Caltagirones settlement in December. California newspapers this month revealed that the state Legislature has spent $290,000 on settling harassment-related claims since 2006. The Detroit News last month revealed that the Michigan Senate spent $269,000 to investigate and settle sexual harassment claims from 2000 to 2007.And the Wisconsin State Journal in December revealed that the state Legislature in 2015 spent $75,000 to settle a claim against a state senator who was accused by a former aide of talking about her breasts and making other sexual comments. The accused  Democrat Spencer Coggs  is now treasurer for the city of Milwaukee.Lawmakers in at least five states  California, Illinois, Iowa, New York and Pennsylvania  have proposed banning the use of public dollars for settlements or payouts related to sexual harassment allegations against state lawmakers.Advocates for taxpayers, such as Pete Sepp, president of the nonprofit National Taxpayers Union, say lawmakers need to be held responsible for their actions.They are supposed to be answerable to the people who pay the bills, Sepp said, and those people are saying right now that this situation is untenable.But some employment lawyers, such as David Yamada, a law professor and director of the New Workplace Institute at Suffolk University in Boston, say the issue is more complicated than it seems.Holding individual lawmakers, and not the government, responsible for sexual harassment may lessen the incentive for legislatures to offer sexual harassment training and to police their own, Yamada said. And, because some lawmakers may not be able to come up with the money for a settlement, it also may make it less likely that the victim will receive compensation for her claim.There are better ways to spend public money than to have to spend it to atone for the misdeeds of public servants, Yamada said. But, he said, We have to hold public employers liable.Legislatures are often on the hook for the bad behavior of lawmakers because, like other employers, they are responsible under the Civil Rights Act for creating a workplace that is free from harassment and discrimination. Employers that dont attempt to prevent harassment  and report and investigate claims when they arise  can be held liable.Its part of an employers job to prevent a toxic culture, said Emily Martin, general counsel at the National Womens Law Center, a nonprofit that provides legal defense for victims of harassment. But Martin said the bills raise an important question about why the state is paying for the transgressions of lawmakers, who do not have a traditional employer-employee relationship.Lawmakers dont really have managers, other than the public, she said. In order to really hold that legislator accountable, maybe it makes sense to have them pay for it.The effort to hunt down secret settlements involving state lawmakers began in November after reporters revealed recent cases in which taxpayer money was used to settle sexual harassment claims against members of Congress, including payouts related to accusations against Democratic Reps. Alcee Hastings of Florida ($220,000) and John Conyers of Michigan ($27,000), and against Republican Rep. Blake Farenthold of Texas ($84,000). Congress is considering a bipartisan bill, like the state bills, that would bar the use of taxpayer money to settle harassment claims.Its hard for the public to find out about settlements agreed to by state legislatures, and even when the payments are made public, the details of the allegations usually are not. In some states, legislatures arent subject to public records laws, and in other states, officials say the law doesnt apply to these records. Its also hard to know what records to ask for  sometimes the settlements are paid by state insurance, sometimes by the legislatures administrative offices, and sometimes by individual party caucuses.In Pennsylvania, the payout for the claim against Caltagirone, a Democrat, came from a state insurance fund. Caltagirone has consistently denied any allegations against him. He said he is prohibited from talking about the settlement, but that it did not result in any cost to taxpayers that he was aware of. Bill Patton, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania House Democrats, could not confirm that assertion.In recent years, settlements agreed to by state legislatures have been revealed as court cases occurred or victims spoke out. They include a $1.75 million settlement in Iowa involving Republican senators; a $400,000 settlement in Kentucky involving a Democratic state representative; and $620,000 for two settlements in New York, one involving a Democratic state assemblyman, and another involving a Senate employee.Illinois state Rep. David McSweeney, a Republican, proposed a ban on the use of public dollars for settlements after revelations of settlements involving members of Congress. McSweeney said he doesnt know of any Illinois state lawmakers who used taxpayer dollars to settle harassment claims. But more than 200 men and women recently signed a letter saying that harassment in the state Capitol was rampant.Allowing public money to cover lawmakers sexual harassment claims encourages bad behavior, McSweeney said, adding that his proposal would help prevent it.God forbid, if someone does this behavior, he said, you are going to be exposed, and you are to be punished.Most of the proposals would cover state lawmakers but not all state employees, even though plenty of settlements have involved the latter.The amount spent on harassment and discrimination settlements, including sexual harassment and many other forms of discrimination, for all state employees in California was $25 million in the last three years; in Florida, $11 million since 1992; in New York, $10 million in the last nine years.And in Pennsylvania, the state spent $900,000 on a single payout in 2016, after a longtime employee accused a midlevel manager in the Revenue Department of harassing her, sexually assaulting her, and making racial slurs, including references to slavery, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.Minna Kotkin, a law professor and director of the Employment Law Clinic at Brooklyn Law School in New York, questions why there isnt also a movement to ban the use of public money to settle claims involving employees who arent elected officials.She pointed out that police brutality cases often raise the same questions about employee and employer responsibility, and there arent proposals to make individual officers pay in those cases, either.The proposal in Iowa, unlike in other states, would require all state employees to pay to settle claims against them. All 20 Senate Democrats and an independent senator introduced the bill.Some victims file claims against employers, not individuals, because it helps ensure that they will be compensated for any damages. The government can easily cut a check to compensate the victim for a lawmakers actions, Yamada said, while the individual lawmaker may not have the financial resources to do so.In Pennsylvania, state Rep. Leanne Krueger-Braneky, a Democrat, said her proposal would ensure the victim is made whole by requiring the state to pay the settlement amount, and then requiring the lawmaker to reimburse the state.The bill also would allow the state to tap into lawmakers pensions to settle claims, Krueger-Braneky said.My goal is this language is strong enough that no legislator engages in harassment activity ever again, she said. But if it happens there will be a clear, nonpolitical way to address it and a real cost to the legislator.Facing a deadline imposed by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, the state legislature's two top Republicans late Friday submitted to the governor a new statewide map of congressional districts to replace boundaries that the court ruled were unconstitutional.The map was submitted by Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati and House Speaker Mike Turzai. It "complies fully" with the court's order, Scarnati and Turzai said in a joint statement.But within roughly an hour of its public release, top Democrats in the House and the Senate urged urging Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf to "reject it outright.""The Republican leadership in both chambers blocked this process, refused to negotiate, and have now submitted a map directly to your office that we have not even seen," Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa and House Minority Leader Frank Dermody said in a letter to Wolf.A spokesman for Wolf said that while the map does not appear to comply with the letter of the court's order, the governor would be willing to review it.The state Supreme Court's ruling last month declared the state's congressional map had been unconstitutionally gerrymandered to favor Republicans, who hold 13 of 18 U.S. House seats in Pennsylvania despite winning votes from roughly half the electorate.The justices, a majority of whom are Democrats, ordered that a new map be put in place in time for this year's elections and gave the legislature until Friday to send a proposed map to the governor. Wolf has until Thursday to approve a map and, if he chooses, submit it to the court for consideration.Any redrawing could have significant implications not only for the state but for national politics as well, as Democrats hope to chip away at a Republican majority in the U.S. House.In normal circumstances, maps would go to the governor only after they have been approved in votes by the Pennsylvania House and Senate. By late this week, it was no longer possible for the full, Republican-controlled legislature to pass a new map in time.It's unclear whether the court would consider its order fulfilled if just Scarnati and Turzai submit a map without a vote."While the court's order did not appear to allow for two individuals to draw a map on behalf of the entire General Assembly, Gov. Wolf will review Speaker Turzai and President Scarnati's submission in consultation with the experts retained by the administration to determine his next course of action," Wolf spokesman J.J. Abbott said in a statement.The Wolf administration has enlisted Moon Duchin, a professor of mathematics at Tufts University, to help evaluate any potential maps for fairness. Duchin, speaking Friday before students at the University of Pennsylvania's law school, said she felt her role was to provide guidance on how "neutral" any presented map is.The map released Friday provided broad outlines of districts. More detailed information that would allow for a further analysis broken down by municipalities or wards could be released in coming days.Drew Crompton, chief of staff to Scarnati and the Senate's top attorney, said Friday night that the teams working with the Republican leaders used census data and the court's guidance to draw their map, putting little emphasis on how voters in the districts had cast their ballots in the past."If you ask me the R and D split of that map, I have no idea what it was," he said, referring to Republicans and Democrats.Description

GIS  12 February, 2018: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)  Task Force Meeting to develop the new Regional Strategic Cooperative Framework 2019-2023 for Africa will be held in Mauritius in March 2018.

The IAEA is developing a new African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA) Regional Strategy Cooperative Framework for the period 2019-2023.

The objective of the Meeting is to review the SWOT Analysis based on the critical assessment report and working document with a view to developing strategic programmes focusing on the priority areas of Human Health, Food and Agriculture and Radiation Safety including developing key performance indicators. It also aims at establishing TCDC (Technical cooperation among developing countries)/triangular cooperation to play a critical role in enhancing African Member States capacity to benefit from nuclear science and technology including the other thematic areas (energy development, industrial applications, water resources).

During the Meeting, the draft Regional Strategic Cooperative Framework (RCF) would be critically reviewed with a view to developing strategic programmes focusing on the priority areas of Human Health, Food and Agriculture and Radiation Safety.

Some 40 participants are expected to attend the meeting.

Regional Strategic Cooperative Framework

The purpose of the RCF is to identify and prioritise regional cooperation opportunities for the sustainable promotion of peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology, on the basis of an in-depth assessment of the most pressing regional developmental problems, needs and priorities in the African socioeconomic context. The RCF is also meant to facilitate the building of strategic partnerships with other relevant bilateral and multilateral bodies, agencies and organisations. It will serve as a basis for the formulation of AFRA regional programmes and will be used as a frame of reference for the process of development of AFRA regional projects.

International Atomic Energy Agency

The IAEA was created in 1957 in response to the deep fears and expectations generated by the discoveries and diverse uses of nuclear technology. The Agency works in close partnership with Member States, United Nations agencies, research organisations and civil society to maximise the contribution of nuclear science and technology to the achievement of development priorities. It also plays an active part in helping the international community achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.Description

GIS - 12 February, 2018: Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord St John of Bletso of the House of Lords of UK met the Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs, External Communications and National Development Unit and Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, on Friday 09 February at the New Treasury Building in Port Louis. Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord St John of Bletso of the House of Lords of UK met the Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs, External Communications and National Development Unit and Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, on Friday 09 February at the New Treasury Building in Port Louis.

In a statement Lord St John of Bletso underlined that his meeting with Prime Minister Jugnauth was friendly and fruitful and discussions focused mostly on advantages that digital transformation can bring in its wake such as employment opportunities. Digital skills, technology and Blockchain were also among the other topics discussed, he pointed out.

For his part, Lord Meghnad Desai highlighted that the main issues discussed with Prime Minister Jugnauth revolved around how he can assist in paving the way for appropriate regulatory frameworks for encouraging and supporting the development of Fintech in Mauritius.

He emphasised that Mauritius should bank on its international goodwill to transform itself into a regional technology hub and invest in its human capital to pave the way forward to adapt itself for the benefit of its financial sector.

Lord Desai pointed out that the main purpose of their visit is to assess the current regulatory set up with respect to Fintech and Innovation-driven Financial Services Regulations in Mauritius and make recommendations on the need to introduce new sets of regulations for Fintech and lnnovation as well as to identify priority areas within the regulatory space of Fintech activities.Ohio State School for the Blind  testing and implementation of smart paint technology in Columbus involving both students and adults

Western Michigan University  implementation of smart paint technology with travelers who are blind and visually impaired to maximize orientation and mobility

Mississippi State University  the impacts of smart paint technology on mobility and employment for people who are blind and visually impaired

Columbus Smart Cities Initiative  rollout of smart paint within Columbus and the paint's interaction with the Integrated Data Exchange (IDE), a cloud-based platform that dynamically collects user data to show technological impact

The city of Tampa, Fla.  rollout of smart paint at the Lighthouse for the Blind

The Hillsborough Area Transit Regional Authority, Hillsborough County, Fla.  integration of smart paint with existing bus lines to enable precise location determination

The American Council of the Blind  implementation of smart paint with the annual American Council of the Blind convention

MetroLab Network  smart paint implementation in city-university partnerships

Intelligent Material  manufactures and supplies the unique light-converting oxides that make the paint "smart"

Crown Technology  paint manufacturing, product evaluation and technical support

SRI International  design and manufacturing of the "smart" white cane hardware

In this installment of the Innovation of the Month series (read last months story here ), we explore the use of smart technologies to help blind and visually impaired people better navigate the world around them. A team at Ohio State University has been working on a smart paint application to do just that.MetroLabs Executive Director Ben Levine sat down with John Lannutti, professor of materials science engineering at Ohio State University; Mary Ball-Swartwout, orientation and mobility specialist at the Ohio State School for the Blind; and Josh Collins, chief technology officer at Intelligent Material to learn more.: Could you please describe what smart paint for networked smart cities is? Who is involved in this project?: The goal of smart paint for networked smart cities is to assist people who are blind and visually impaired by implementing a smart paint technology that provides accurate location services. You might think, Cant GPS do that? But, surprisingly, current GPS-based solutions actually cannot tell whether somebody is walking on the sidewalk or down the middle of the street. Meanwhile, modern urban intersections are becoming increasingly complex. That means that finding a crosswalk, aligning to cross and maintaining a consistent crossing direction while in motion can be challenging for people who are visually impaired.And of course, crosswalks arent the only challenge. For example, our current mapping technologies are unable to provide the exact location of a buildings entrance. We have a technology solution to those challenges. Smart paint is created by adding exotic light-converting oxides to standard road paints. The paint is detected using a smart cane, a modified white cane that detects the smart paint and enables portal-to-portal guidance. The smart cane can also be used to notify vehicles  including autonomous vehicles  of a users presence in a crosswalk.As part of this project, we have a whole team of educational, city and industrial partners, including:: Can you describe what this project focused on and what motivated you to address this particular challenge?: We have been working with Intelligent Material in integrating light-converting oxides into polymeric matrices for specific applications for several years. Intelligent Material supplies these oxides for highly specialized applications across a variety of industries, and has deep experience in filtering and processing the resulting optical outputs. They were already looking at using this technology for automotive applications when the idea to develop applications for people who are blind was introduced. We were extremely fortunate to have the Ohio State School for the Blind (OSSB) right here in Columbus and even more fortunate to have interested collaborators there who have helped us at every step of the way. They even have a room filled with previous white cane technologies; we used those to better understand what works and what doesnt, helping refine our own product. At about this same time, the National Science Foundation released a call for Smart and Connected Communities proposals, which gave us both a goal and a "home" for this idea.: What need motivated this collaboration? Why did you decide to partner with Ohio State University to meet this need?: At Ohio State School for the Blind, we work with students of all ages and abilities. OSSBs orientation and mobility team, which includes me, Phil Northrop and Rachel Smith, is very familiar with the challenges our students face in navigating cities. Orientation and mobility training is essential for students navigation within the outside world, but we are always searching for additional technologies that could make our students travel more efficient. When Ohio State University and Intelligent Material approached us, our team was very interested because their technology better integrated into the modern world than past products. None of the prior products have created a lasting benefit for many of our students, and we enthusiastically support any new tools that help our students to enhance travel skills.: How will the tools developed in this project impact planning and the built environment?: One of the great things about smart paint is that it can be added to the built environment easily at little extra cost. We expect that once smart paint is widely adopted, most sighted users will not notice much difference as smart paint is not visually different from regular road paint. Some intersections might need to have more paint features that enable smart white cane-guided entry from the sidewalk into the crosswalk. Paint that tells users that they have reached their destination may become visible as horizontal stripes along modern sidewalks. These paints could be either gray or black or even invisible to sighted pedestrians, but would still be detectable by "smart" white canes to tell users that they have arrived at their destination.: What business need motivated this collaboration?: We specialize in the design and manufacturing of rare-earth doped nanocrystals capable of converting light energy up and down the visible spectrum. Our core Intelligent Material technology enables up to parts-per-billion sensitivity of detection. Nothing found in nature converts light in the same way and the prospects for widespread application of these patented oxides into road and sidewalk paint worldwide are very attractive to us from the business perspective. Discovering a range of additional business and academic partners dedicated to helping people who are blind and visually impaired has been very encouraging.: Can you tell us about the new technologies that are associated with this project? Can you talk about the status quo versus your vision for the future?: Beyond converting ceramics in paint, placing a highly sensitive excitation source and detector package at the tip of a moving white cane is truly novel. Also challenging is powering this package using minimal battery weight to decrease the likelihood of wrist and upper neck fatigue.The status quo is that the travel of citizens who are blind and visually impaired can be unpredictable. They need better technologies for routine travel and especially for travel to any new destinations. In addition, we anticipate that this technology could assist in the travel of people who have a variety of physical and cognitive impairments.Our vision for the future of this technology is that it will be widespread and utilized constantly. Outside the U.S., Japan and Europe have integrated relatively expensive technologies into streets and sidewalks, and we see smart paint replacing that very quickly. Because the "pain" of installing smart paint is very small, we believe that grass-roots pressure will enable rapid introduction of this technology.: What are some of the other applications for this technology?: It turns out that the same technology that informs users who are blind which way they should go can be used to tell airport ground vehicles which way they should not go. Runway incursions of ground vehicles in an active airport could lead to terrible accidents if a rapidly moving jet were to collide with one of these vehicles. These incursions can involve vehicles, general aviation traffic and other large air carriers. To address this, we are also looking at deploying smart paint at airports. We have worked with OSU to successfully add smart paint to hold bars at the Ohio State University Airport in Northwest Columbus. This enables unique optical signatures to provide warnings to both ground vehicle operators and pilots to eliminate incursions. The corresponding visual, audible or tactile warning signals triggered by passage over the smart paint will prevent unauthorized ground vehicle or plane passage. This will satisfy the need for updated safety enhancements that benefit airport operational performance.: What was the most surprising thing you learned during this process?: In my mind, the most surprising thing was discovering that sound was not necessarily the best means of guiding users who are blind. This is a bias on the part of sighted individuals as we are used to beeping and buzzing noises that guide or inform us throughout our day. Pedestrians who are blind, on the other hand, need to constantly listen to aspects of their environment to successfully navigate it. For example, listening to traffic noise is extremely important to them as a means of avoiding danger. People who are blind or visually impaired cannot see but need to hear their environment. So we had to dial back our expectations regarding the utility of sound. Instead, we now focus on vibration along the white cane as a means of alerting the user.: The OSSB orientation and mobility team has been surprised to learn how rapidly technology is advancing to give people with visual impairments greater potential independence. Also, the high level of interest and excitement on the part of the staff and students at the OSSB regarding this project has been amazing.: Where will the project go from here?: We are preparing for a proposal submission to the National Science Foundation at the end of February. We are looking for considerable support from industry particularly in the area of software development. We believe that with the right partner this idea can easily create a Google Maps for People who are Blind, thereby increasing the travel abilities of a wide range of individuals who have disabilities.: Thanks to the city of Columbus, we now have several acres of smart paint applied at crosswalks and sidewalks across our campus. We are looking forward to Institutional Review Board-approved testing of this technology, utilizing our students and adults who are blind and visually impaired in the community. Professors Dae Kim and Robert Wall Emerson from Western Michigan University will visit us to work with our students in quantifying crossing efficiency and other safety factors associated with smart white cane-assisted travel.(TNS) - Samuel Eaton isnt afraid of many things.A battalion chief for the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, the 52-year-old has made a career of charging into burning buildings and coming out in one piece.But thinking toward his upcoming birthday, hell tell you hes deeply concerned.Eaton lost one of his best friends, a retired fire captain in the department, last year at 53. After two decades on the force, it wasnt a house fire or a collapsed lung that eventually killed Butch Smith.It was cancer, an invisible killer that stalks victims for years before revealing itself, often contracted by firefighters through microscopic carcinogens that latch onto fire gear or their skin. Its the leading cause of death among firefighters, and theyre twice as likely to contract it than civilians, according to some estimates.Everybody thinks about heart and lung [diseases], Eaton said. Explosions and fires and things of that nature. Those are all dangerous things, but were losing our life to cancer. Its not just in retirement. Its young people. Theres people in their 20s, their 30s, their 40s, their 50s.In 2008, Smith was diagnosed with stage four multiple myeloma, a blood cancer, and was given just two years to live.He lived seven years past that deadline, emboldened by a desire to figure out why firefighters were contracting cancer at a higher rate than the rest of the population and a hope to find a way to prevent further tragedy. He underwent harsh chemotherapy 21 days a month, but the diagnosis served as a wake-up call for Eatons department and set into motion a series of events that would ultimately lead to a one-of-its-kind cancer-fighting initiative in South Florida.One year after his death, Smiths memory  and that of other fallen firefighters in South Florida continues to give life to a unique collaboration between firefighters across the state and the University of Miamis Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.Butch kind of wanted his life to represent more than a statistic, said Dr. Erin Kobetz, the associate director of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and the principal investigator of the Firefighter Cancer Initiative. His diagnosis catalyzed a really important conversation about what was happening as a function of being a firefighter with regard to increasing the risk of developing and dying of cancer.Combining cancer studies with the development of new prevention protocols and monitoring technologies, the Firefighter Cancer Initiative hopes to figure out exactly what about firefighting leads to a higher rate of cancer, and in the process, spread awareness and save lives. Through partnerships with fire departments in nearly every Florida county and with the state fire marshall, Kobetzs team has worked to change department protocols and distribute thousands of decontamination kits.And departments across the country are taking notice, she said.I think now we're at the forefront of a national conversation about firefighting and risk of cancer, and are really leading efforts to understand what is unique about being a firefighter occupationally that increases the risk of cancer, Kobetz said.On Saturday, Eaton and Kobetz rode their bicycles 35 miles as part of the annual Dolphins Cancer Challenge in honor of Butch Smith and all cancer victims, finishing inside Hard Rock Stadium, where Eaton and a team of over 65 firefighters presented the center with a UM-themed fire hydrant as a thanks to its commitment to researching firefighter cancer.The team raised about $24,500 for the center, and the Miami Dolphins raised $3 million.To ride alongside people you know have got your back like they do, its surreal, Eaton said. Its amazing.Joining in was Dr. Juan Garcia, the father of the late city of Miami Fire Rescue Lt. Rafael Ralf Garcia, who died of cancer in 2015 at the age of 28, leaving behind a widow more than seven months into her pregnancy. Garcia participated in a 5K walk.It was a lot of mixed emotions, said Dr. Garcia, a cardiologist in a private practice at South Miami Hospital. I wish that I did not have to participate in it as a supporting family member of somebody lost to cancer. We came very teary eyed as we crossed the finish line, knowing what it was all about.The initiative began in 2014 with a call from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, which served as the initiatives pilot department. Around that time, Eaton had formed a team of his own with retired division chief Vicki Sheppard called Firefighters Attacking the Cancer Epidemic, or FACE, with 12 other members from their department. That expanded into the Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative Statewide FACE Team.And they called us because were the only university-based cancer center in South Florida, and we obviously have research infrastructure to support collaborative science where we could work hand in hand with firefighters to understand their risk, identify exposures that were driving that risk and more importantly, come up with strategies to keep them safer on the job, Kobetz said.The programs partnership launched the Firefighters Cancer Initiative, and then in 2015, with the death of Garcia, a tsunami of awareness began in Miami-Dade County, Dr. Garcia said.Our work has now touched almost every county in the state and has a national footprint, Kobetz said.The spouses of Miami firefighters formed Fire Families Against Cancer, and eventually that, too, partnered with Sylvesters program, linking two of Floridas biggest counties through a shared mission.I dont know why my sons death triggered so much, but it did, Garcia said. I wish I didnt have to be a part of this. Unfortunately, hes not here, so the only way we can say that he is here is through these efforts.I think the movement now has taken a life of its own, Garcia said.The Firefighters Cancer Initiative eventually absorbed the mission of both programs, forming a giant force to tackle cancer among firefighters. Over the past four years, it has received $3.5 million in state appropriations. This year, Kobetz, said, shell ask for $2 million to further the programs research.Kobetzs team consists of about 25 students, staff and faculty, along with clinical support for those diagnosed with cancer.I definitely think in terms of firefighters and cancer, its one of the first of its kind. And I think whats really powerful about this research in particular is that its firefighter driven, Kobetz said. So I think there's a recognition at Sylvester that, you know, we have the scientific and clinical acumen and firefighters have the occupational expertise. And if you want to ask the right questions and get to appropriate sustainable solutions, they need to appropriately engage in what were doing, or otherwise it has no relevance to them.Eaton said finding hope in tragedy makes the initiative possible, and brought him and Dr. Garcia closer.Its because of their common tragedy that weve bonded together to find a way to make this right, Eaton said.2018 Miami HeraldVisit Miami Herald at www.miamiherald.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.In contracting during a post-disaster event, if you want it "bad," you might just get what you want  "Bad." See this story of a one-woman company being selected to deliver 30 million meals to Puerto Rico. There are thousands of government contracts being vetted for large-scale disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes. The contracting officer may only be thinking about low bids, but that can lead to mistakes like the one described above. I can understand how that happens, but ... it doesn't look good in the post-disaster analysis of contracts gone wrong.Pass this blog post along to your contracting staff as an example of what to avoid. We all know to warn citizens of unscrupulous contractors who prey on disaster victims who have damages to their homes. Let us be forewarned of the same possibility in our function of providing services on a larger scale.(TNS)  Law enforcement took preliminary information gathered at the scene of a residential explosion and issued the city's first public safety alert last week.Residents who didn't receive the text message can sign up for future alerts at the city's website. City Manager Lynn Lander said the public safety feature was added about six months ago at the request of the police department.Police Chief Dave McNeil said the officers who first responded to the scene noticed it had the characteristics of a gas explosion. He said firefighters then reported there was a secondary explosion and that the utility company was being notified, so steps were taken to alert the public.That alert said there was a gas explosion in the 500 block of North Second Street. Additional information was posted on the city's website."With all the characteristics of that, our simple mission was to warn people that there was an explosion. We believed it was related to gas and we needed to get people to stay away," McNeil said.However, the cause of the explosion and house fire have not yet been determined. Tom Glanzer with NorthWestern Energy said no natural gas leaks were found in the area.The alert was issued by the city manager's assistant, who composed it while officers were handling safety concerns on the scene, Lander said. It was a first."It was meant to support the next level of safety protection and prevent people from congregating in the area," Lander said.The explosion and house fire were reported at 10:10 a.m. Tuesday at 507 N. Second St. Aberdeen Fire & Rescue had the fire out by about 3 p.m., but the 500 and 600 blocks were closed to traffic through Wednesday afternoon while local and state investigators were on scene.The alert went out from a five-digit text number without a disclaimer noting it was a city public safety alert.Lander said he wasn't aware the alert was issued without that information. It will be included in the future, he said.While the city has branched out into text alerts, establishing social media accounts isn't in the city's plans, though the police department does have a Facebook page and Twitter account.Lander said he doesn't anticipate setting up a Facebook page or Twitter account for the city proper, as some other communities have. He said he'll continue to monitor trends in technology, but for now he would rather use the tools the city already has available."If we need to adapt, we will do so in the future," he said.He's mindful that traditional methods of getting information out to the public will always be needed for people who don't have smartphones or use social media.While the police department's Facebook page is active, nothing was posted about the explosion. McNeil said officers chose the text alert because it would be the most effective in getting out an emergency message to the public."When you're at a scene like that and do all those things, you notify city management offices and get that notice out," he said. "At the same time, officers are in the field and not near our social media application. This was the quickest and most efficient at the time."The investigation into the fire and explosion continues.Nobody was killed or injured, and there was no methamphetamine lab in the house, Aberdeen Fire Marshal Mike Thompson said, addressing a rumor that popped up Friday.There's no evidence that anybody was home at the time of the explosion nor of any illegal activity, he said.Thompson said a consultant with the home insurance company is expected to be in town Monday. That person will evaluate the home and determine the best way to improve the structural integrity of what remains so investigators can safety access the basement.Thompson and investigators from the state fire marshal's office and insurance companies have yet to gain entry to the basement, but have been able to see that the furnace and water heater remain "relatively intact."He said interior work to the home like painting was being done, but that the last tenant moved out in September or October.An Italian court has imposed an 18 month prison sentence on former Renault boss Flavio Briatore.

Two years ago, the flamboyant Italian was convicted over a case surrounding tax evasion relating to his luxury yacht Force Blue.

Now, La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that with the prosecution pushing for a 4 year jail sentence, an appeals court in Genoa has instead imposed a one year and 6 month punishment for tax crimes.

Briatore and four others had been found guilty of using the yacht only recreationally, therefore dodging EUR 3.6 million in value-added tax by issuing fake invoices.

Force Blue was also confiscated.

Briatore's lawyer said: "We take note of the judge's decision and will appeal to the supreme court. We are convinced of Mr Briatore's innocence."

(GMM)



Haiti - Culture : President Moise officially opens Carnival 2018





Sunday at the National Palace, President Jovenel Moise, accompanied by his wife Martine and Prime Minister Jack Guy Lafontant, in the presence of members of the Government, the Organizing Committee of the Carnival, the Mayor of Port-au-Prince Ralph Youri Chevry and various actors evolving in the Haitian cultural world, officially opened the National Carnival 2018 around the theme "Ayiti sou wout chanjman".



wished that these carnival festivities be realized in peace and harmony and took the opportunity to welcome the King and the Queen of Carnival who spoke on behalf of all the other Kings and Queens who will parade at the Champ de Mars in Port-au-Prince the 11th, 12th and 13th of February 2018.



"Ayiti sou wout chanjman", we will say in the short term that we have progressed well on this course which seemed difficult, because we believed it, that we believe in it, that the best will come first of all from us, that nothing and no one will distract us from what we have decided to do with our country which is and will remain the country of all beginnings," declared the Head of State.



President Moise believes that this great showcase of carnival festivities must be fully exploited to sell a positive image of the country favorable to its economic development and appealed to all carnivals participants to reject violence on the occasion of this event.



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Haiti - UN : End of Mission for Bintou Keita





Friday, February 9, Guinea's Bintou Keita, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, ended her 4-day mission to Haiti to assess the progress of the United Nations Mission for the Support of Justice in Haiti (Minujusth) and to determine unifying milestones for strengthening the rule of law. She confirmed the commitment made during her meeting with President Moise, that Minujusth would stay in Haiti for only two years to accompany the national authorities in the consolidation of the rule of law, stressing that this is about a relatively short period for missions of this type.



The UN representative, on her last day of work, signed an agreement with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), which strengthens the joint actions of the UN organization and at the same time, paves the way towards sustainable progress, especially in building the capacity of national institutions, the local private sector, civil society and communities in Haiti.



During her stay, Keita met the stakeholders of the Civil Society in Port-au-Prince as well as the Office of Citizen Protection and the Superior Council of the Judiciary, in order to identify with them the actions to put in place to advance the issue of human rights. The Assistant Secretary-General then addressed all Minujusth teams to commend their work and commitment to the implementation of the mandate. She also visited the Constitute Police Unit (FPU) of Rwandan at Minujusth in Grand'Anse (South) and visited the prion of Jeremie which has 304 detainees of which only 51 were judged...



Recall that the Minjusth, which replaced in October 2017 https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-23185-icihaiti-justice-minujusth-s-innovative-approach-to-strengthening-the-rule-of-law.html the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti, has no military personnel and is composed of 7 constituted police units (980 persons) and 295 police officers outside constituted units https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20656-haiti-flash-bye-bye-the-minustah-hello-the-minujusth.html



See also :

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-23498-icihaiti-un-first-visit-of-bintou-keita-to-the-country.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22590-haiti-un-a-woman-at-the-head-of-minujusth.html



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Haiti - NOTICE : Fulbright TEA program for teachers, registration open





If you are a high school teacher interested in exchanging your knowledge with your counterparts in the United States, the TEA (Teaching Excellence Achievement) Fulbright program proposes international teachers a 6 week program in the United States that includes academic seminars for the professional development at a host university.



Participants observe the classrooms and share their expertise with teachers and students from the host university and local high schools.



The online application is available on the website : https://www.irex.org/project/fulbright-teaching-excellence-and-achievement-program-fulbright-tea



For more information, contact : papacademicprograms@state.gov.



Deadline to submit your candidacy : March 2, 2018 at 3:30 pm



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Haiti - TPS : El Salvador calls Honduras and Haiti to join the negotiations





Friday in Washington after four days of meetings on Capitol Hill to try to convince lawmakers (Republicans and Democrats) to offer an alternative at the end of the Temporary Protection Status (TPS), the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Salvador Hugo Martinez, asked Honduras and Haiti to work together and join the negotiations to try to convince the US Congress to approve a means of permanent residence for all people currently benefiting from TPS and who will be threatened by deportation in less than two years.



"The approach that we adopted in all the meetings concerned all the people covered by the TPS and I sent a note to Honduras and Haiti to join their negotiations efforts in the Congress," declared in Conference Chancellor Martinez adding "We are looking for a solution that ensures the transition from temporary to permanent residence."



Recall that following the decision of the Trump administration not to renew the TPS, 195,000 Salvadorans, 50,000 Hondurans and 58,000 Haitians risk expulsion from US territory in less than 2 years... https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22759-haiti-flash-tps-more-than-50-000-haitians-will-have-to-leave-the-usa.html



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-23316-haiti-flash-usa-ultimate-reregistration-to-tps-you-have-60-days.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22892-haiti-flash-tps-senator-campbell-at-the-head-of-the-haitian-temporary-relief-task-force.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-22759-haiti-flash-tps-more-than-50-000-haitians-will-have-to-leave-the-usa.html



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Haiti - News : Zapping...





Resignation of Commissioner Dameus refused ?

According to a source at the Public Prosecutor's Office in Port-au-Prince, Prime Minister Lafontant would not have accepted the resignation of Clame-Ocnam Dameus, the government commissioner who had resigned after two reprimands from the Minister of Justice. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-23475-haiti-justice-the-commissioner-of-the-damascus-government-resigns.html



Carnival : Message to pilots of drones

The Directorate for Civil Protection, in a security message gives safety tips for drone pilots during the 3 fat days to prevent accidents "Avoid directly fly over the crowd, tanks and stands. Be sure to film them at least 3m above. Do not fly above 15m altitude. Fly within the range of your drone model. Land your drone as soon as the battery charge is 30%. Do not fly over strategic spaces like the Palace."



Moise announces the relaunch of social programs

Saturday on the sidelines of the heavy equipment distribution at Chateau, communal section of Jeremie https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-23535-icihaiti-jeremie-moise-distributes-heavy-equipment-to-chateau.html , President Moise announced the revival of various social programs such as "Ti Manman Cheri", "Panye Solidarite", as well as the reopening of hundreds of community restaurants across the country.



Emergency number PNH

The National Police of Haiti reminds that it is at the heart of the National Carnival and that in case of emergency just dial #114



Carnival : Reminder of safety

Leon Ronsard Saint Cyr, the Secretary of State for Public Security in order to protect the population during the 3 fat days asks the people to take pleasure without violence and recalls that:



1- Vehicles without special authorization are not allowed to travel on the course during these days;

2- Only police officers on duty have the right to carry weapons, and all firearms and white are prohibited on the course;

3- Merchants are not allowed to sell drinks in glass bottles but rather in plastic bottles

4- The activities end the first 2 days at 2 am and the last day at 3 am.



The town hall of Delmas with hospitalized children

On Sunday, as part of the World Day of the Sick, the Deputy Mayor of Delmas Mayor Rose Trinita Louis, visited the hospitalized children at the hospital "Congregation of Missionaries of Charity" in Delmas 31 and proceeded to a distribution of materials hygienic in favor of sick children in the hospital.



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The Riot and the Dance is a new nature documentary that will be in theaters nationwide for a one night event on March 19. The film is a boisterous new nature documentary featuring a biologist who was once told he would never succeed if he kept blabbing about all that silly Creator-creature nonsense. Host and narrator Dr. Gordon Wilson travels around the globe and in his own backyard, showcasing everything from exotic creatures to overlooked critters.

Now you can follow along with Dr. Gordon Wilson as he traverses our planet, basking in God's masterpieces. Whether he's catching wildlife in his own back yard or in the jungles of Sri Lanka, Dr. Wilson celebrates God's creatures in all shapes, sizes and species. (Yeah, he was bitten, but not by the cobra.) Showstopping footage and powerful narration will open your eyes to the extraordinary glory found all over the animal kingdom. From leopards and langurs to vipers and elephants and beyond, The Riot and the Dance is a cinematic celebration for viewers of all ages.

We have the honor to chat with Dr. Wilson about this exciting new film.

Q: Congratulations on the release of your new film, for the sake of our readers, briefly tell us what is the movie about?

The movie is simply a cinematic celebration of the creation. I showcase a wide array of amazing animals from small insects to elephants. I highlight some fascinating facts about them and the best part of it is God gets the glory for all of it.

Q: Can you explain to us the title of the film?

The Riot and the Dance came from the name of my biology textbook. I came up with the name because when I think of all aspects of the life on earth, God designed it like a dance. At the ecosystem level, i.e. the cycles of nature, courtship behavior, mutualistic relationships, are all very choreographed. Even at the cellular level, whether it's mitosis or DNA replication, no process is purposeless. The molecules of life are designed to dance toward a goal. The "Riot" refers to the fact that this beautiful dance was subjected to futility because of Adam's rebellion. The enemy "death" invaded. The curse of God was ushered in through predators, parasites, pathogens, and other pernicious things like cancer. But apart from the curse "Riot" can refer to the seeming chaos of plant placement and animal movement (or even Brownian motion at the molecular level). Most of it doesn't conform to our sense of tidy organization. In the wilderness, trees and plants aren't in rows and migrating animals aren't marching lockstep in straight ranks. This part of the riot is good. There is much beauty in it. Though the original dance was deformed it wasn't blotted out altogether.

Q: When and how did you become interested in God's creation in nature?

I was 5 or 6 years old when I discovered that I loved living things. What stands out in my mind was when my older brothers brought home a couple eastern box turtles. I was transfixed and it was around then that this biology 'seed' germinated in me. It was clear that I was cut out to be a biologist from the start.

Q: In creating a film like this, certainly you have some great stories from filming. Any good stories of trying to capture this incredible footage of nature? Where in the world did you film?

I loved a lot of things during the filming but would have to say that catching the Sonoran Whipsnake and handling it was my most enjoyable moment. I'll save the other stories for later. We filmed in northern Idaho, Arizona, Sri Lanka, California coast, Oregon coast, & Yellowstone National Park.

Q: How will this film help us in terms of our faith or our lack thereof?

Too often we think of life as the domain of secular biologists and BBC camera crews. Unfortunately they have done the most work. Christians need to get it in gear. "The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof." The film, rightly viewed, should increase our faith because we are directly seeing the handiwork of the Word...God the Son (John 1:1-3). We are gaining insight into the creative character of God. We see God as an Artist, as an Engineer, and as a Sculptor. It makes our enjoyment of living things personal because see the Person behind it. That strengthens my faith. I hope that will be true for all who watch it.

Q: What would you say to a skeptic who doesn't believe in a creator? What would you say to him or her?

Without getting too technical I would say if you know that something like an iPhone has to be designed and manufactured by intelligent beings, be mindful that every critter (and plant) you see in this film is many orders of magnitude more complex. Natural selection simply selects; it doesn't create. Mutation does create either. At best it modifies (usually damages) that which has been made. Watch and believe. This kind of belief is highly rational.

Q: What's next for you?

My day job is teaching biology to the glory of God at New Saint Andrews College. I hope I do that until the day I die. If Attenborough can keep making nature documentaries into his 90s, then I hope God will enable me to do the same... but for His glory, not Darwin's. In the short term, stayed tuned for Part 2 of "Riot" which is "Water"

Tags : gordon wilson the riot and the dance gordon wilson interview the riot and the dance news the riot and the dance film the riot and the dance latestUK organic wine market back on track

By Lisa Riley

Paused by the recession, the UK market for organic wine is back on track, boosted by millennials and their quest for healthier living, alongside consumers in general paying increasing attention to the origins of both food and drink.

In the UK, value sales of organic wine were up 22% in the year to December 31, compared with less than 3% growth in non-organic for the same period (Nielsen Scantrack).

The recession affected the UK market for organic wines quite strongly, but since last year it seems this has been recovering at a nice pace, said Jacques Frelin, Frances first only organic wine merchant and co-funder of Millesime Bio, the worlds biggest organic wine fair, held for the 25th time in France at the end of last month.

Millennials are responsible consumers who enjoy finding out the origins of the products they consume. This is, for obvious reasons, great news for the organic wine industry, which is benefiting from this trend across the globe, Frelin told Harpers at the fair, which saw 1,000 exhibitors from 15 countries gathered alongside 5,000 buyers from near and far.

This is echoed by the Soil Association, which points to a shift in the UK food and drink market as Generation Z builds on millennials influence on the countrys culture and economy.

Organic wines reduced exposure to sulphites and extra bioflavonoids, and production methods which better support wildlife and soil health, are all variables that appeal to the growing interest in wellbeing and desire to support ethical products, said trade relations manager, Lee Holdstock.

According to the Research Institute of Organic Agricultures (RIOA) 2017 report, the thirst for organic has encouraged producers to become involved, with surface areas having tripled in the past 10 years to 333,000ha of organically cultivated vineyards, representing 4.7% of global vinegrowing areas worldwide. And Europe is leading the way.

The growth is driven by Spain, Italy and France (in that order), which are by far the largest organic wine producers in the world. Yet, despite the rapidly expanding organic surface areas, the wine currently produced is not enough to keep up with growing consumer demand  at least not in France, said Frelin.

The organic wine market in France grew by 20% in the past year in terms of consumption and, with production not growing as fast, this is now a problem as theres more demand than we can supply, he said, adding the ambition was to double the production of organic wine in France from the current 10% to 20% in the next seven to eight years.

With the large proportion of vineyards currently in conversion  24% globally according to RIOA  the organic wine offering is poised to increase in years to come, depending on climatic variations.

Getting producers to convert, however, continued to be an uphill struggle, said Frelin.

Its a long process  it takes a winery at least three years to achieve organic certification, and its not easy to convince producers to convert. This is not helped by the significant cost involved in producing organic compared with non-organic wine, he said. Producers cannot label wines as organic until the process is complete, so they have to be in a financial position to cover the additional cost of going organic for years before reaping any financial rewards.

But if you are in a position to carry the costs, its worth it in the long term  and not just from a financial point of view, Frelin said.

First the vintner has to be convinced, because you cant have a better price for the wine at once, and you have to spend more money to make it.

The first benefits are for the producers health. Then, once the wine is certified organic, profit is higher by roughly 10%-30%, but the financial benefit is really hard to tell as each farm is different - it depends on the investment in machines, the number of employees, the economic model and the positioning of the wines.

On top of the extra cost relating to specific machines (for mechanical weeding, for instance) and the need for more employees to achieve the work that used to be done by chemicals, additional issues facing aspiring organic winemakers include good technical skill.

To be organic you must have a very good technical background to understand whats going on in the vineyard and react in an appropriate manner or act before problems occur. In organic agriculture you cannot cure problems and diseases once they are there as you can do in the usual chemical agriculture, said Frelin.

Despite the obstacles growers are increasingly being motivated to gain accreditation by the rising numbers of suppliers, such as Jascots, keen to support producers who are making that investment in the environment.

Jascots revealed last month that it is more than doubling its organic portfolio this year from the current 11 lines to 27 lines in response to consumer demand. The company says that what has changed is that organic now really matters to consumers across the world.

Managing partner Miles MacInnes said: Because there are organic wines across all styles from all parts of the world, a new brand has formed that is driving customer choice. It is much easier to identify on a bottle or wine list and to understand than many of the other assets wines have, such as appellations, DOCs, DOCGs, AVAs, Reservas, Cru Classees and so on.

He added: A large number of our partners are undergoing organic conversion and our growing success with organic wines is encouraging more to follow suit.

Taking into account the increasing interest from consumers, suppliers and producers alike, organic wine looks to be in rude health.

As summed up by the Soil Associations Holdstock: UK sales continue to grow, teasing whats yet to come from this sector. The future of organic wine is a tremendously exciting one.Hawai'i Free Press Current Articles | Archives Monday, February 12, 2018 SB2323: Senators Caught Lying About Peter Boy Case

By Hawaii Family Forum @ 3:41 PM :: 7936 Views :: Education K-12, Family, Law Enforcement SB2323: Parents Rights Trampled? From Hawaii Family Forum, February 12, 2018 Hawaii's Senators are debating a bill on Wednesday morning that, although well-intentioned, may have a chilling effect on homeschooling parents. You are receiving this email because you live in the district of a Senator who sits on the either the Senate Education, or Senate Human Services Committee. We need your help. SB2323 , if passed, establishes procedures for a parent or legal guardian to obtain authorization to home school a child . It goes even further by requiring that the complex area superintendent or the complex area superintendent's authorized representative to request child welfare services to conduct a child abuse and neglect history inquiry and provide information to the department of education to conduct a background check before approving or denying a notification of intent to home school. The bill provides a way for parents to petition family court if they are denied. UPDATE Feb 15, 2018: Senator yanks bill requiring background checks for parents who home-school their children TALKING POINTS: Well first of all, there is no real proof that abusive parents are able to abuse their children more easily than if they were in public school. Sadly, there are children in public schools who are abused every day. The majority of cases across the nation and in Hawaii occur when children, who were already under CPS' auspices, are taken out of a school and never followed up by the authorities.

Even the story used within the bill about Peter Boy Kema, is a stretch! Authorities were aware of the abuse and in fact returned the child to the abusive home. This has nothing to do with homeschooling. In little Peter's case, he was not of compulsory age, and therefore not homeschooled. The other case referred to in the bill, the girl who died in 2017 on the Big Island, was already under CPS before her mother took her out to be homeschooled. The principal of that school had not reported suspicion of abuse by 3 educators in the school.

This law would most certainly have horrific effects on homeschoolers freedom by allowing a superintendent (who are normally pro-public school) to decide whether a person could homeschool. It is horrifying to think these sorts of things are happening to students, however, there is no evidence that says that these things happened solely because the parents homeschooled or that giving certain figures veto power over who could homeschool would actually solve the problem . Even if you are not a homeschooling parent, you understand the authority this gives the government. Even though we all strongly condemn child abuse and neglect, we need to oppose changes to Hawaii's homeschool law. In March 2016, Congress's national Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities published a report calling on state legislatures to take a broad and holistic approach to preventing child abuse. The Commission identified several key risk factors for abuse-which did not include homeschooling-and encouraged state legislatures to carefully study the causes of child abuse locally to identify real solutions. By clicking the link below, you will be prompted to send a message to your Senator. The suggested message is editable, so feel free (and we encourage you) to make it your own. Mahalo for taking the time to raise your voice to protect parental rights in homeschooling. Click the link below to log in and send your message:

https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/LW85bNu1R2O2Ki9K_9GGOQ KHON: Should parents of home-schooled children submit to background checks? RELATED: Legislators Want CWS to Investigate All Homeschooling FamiliesHello Reader,I know the blog has been quiet, but if you didn't know the Youtube channel has been active you can find it here, http://www.youtube.com/learnforensics . For those who listen to the podcast I'm sorry I haven't gotten it up to date with the videos of the Forensic Lunch, I'll see about getting that done this month.Speaking of this month we will have two Forensic Lunches this month:2/16/18 - Ashley Hernandez and Joe Sylve from Blackbag talking APFS and a whole bunch of other new stuff2/23/18 - Guests being ConfirmedBroadcasts go live on the Youtube channel, http://www.youtube.com/learnforensics , and subscribing gets you notifications when we go live.My goal is still two Forensic Lunches a month with a mix of blog posts and night time live Forensic Test Kitchens through the month to keep me engaged and pushing me to share. Myself and the team at G-C Partners are working on some really cool stuff to share this year so please stay tuned.Speaking of things that keep pushing me to answer new questions and share I'm having a big of a global journey this year in my teaching schedule at SANS. With my first public class starting March 19, 2018 in Singapore.Also for those in the Singapore area I will be giving a public SANS At Night talk about Anti Anti Forensics showing our file system journaling forensic research for the first time in Asia.I don't know if I'll ever have the time to do as much travel as I'm doing this year again so if you are in the Asia Pacific Rim I'll be in Singapore in March and Australia in JuneIf you really want to go in depth with Windows forensics I would encourage you to sign up and spend a week with me deep diving into interactions, limitations and workarounds for all the artifacts you know and love. In addition I love it when students ask me questions I've never considered before and we find new artifacts or meanings together in class! Also this is the only venue where I walk through how to use our Triforce tools.For those in Europe or class by I'll be in London and Amsterdam this year:Amsterdam in MayLondon in SeptemberOtherwise thanks for reading and lets look forward to all the new research we can complete in 2018.(Bloomberg) Europe is suddenly the hot market for hedge-fund investment. After years of being overlooked, the continent is attracting capital from investors who want to take advantage of a recovering economy as the last effects of the euro-zone debt crisis disappear. Buyers are also piling in to diversify portfolios swelled by the stock-market boom  which after this weeks correction looks like a prescient move.

To read this article:(Hedgeco.Net) The Securities and Exchange Commission has announced that the Miami-based businessman behind an alleged scheme involving investments in a Vermont-based ski resort has agreed to pay back more than $81 million of investor money that he used illegally.

According to an SEC complaint filed in 2016 in federal court in Miami, Ariel Quiros allegedly misused more than $50 million in investor funds to purchase a different ski resort and to fund personal expenses such as income taxes and two luxury New York City condominium purchases. Investors were told their money would specifically be used for construction projects at the Jay Peak Resort and a nearby proposed biomedical research facility.

Companies owned by Quiros also allegedly failed to contribute approximately $30 million in investor funds toward Jay Peak construction, with two projects going uncompleted. This jeopardized investors investments as well as their participation in the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program under which Quiros and his businesses solicited the money.

In a settlement subject to court approval, Quiros agreed to be held liable for more than $81 million in disgorgement of ill-gotten gains plus a $1 million penalty, and he must forfeit approximately $417,000 in cash that was frozen after the SEC filed the case. Quiros also agreed to surrender ownership of the two condos and ski resort he purchased with investor funds and give up his stake in more than a dozen other properties, including the Jay Peak Resort. Under the proposed settlement, the properties would be turned over to the court-appointed receiver in the case for the purpose of selling them for the benefit of defrauded investors.

In pursuing fraudulent actors, we seek not only to hold wrongdoers accountable, but also to return as much money as possible to victims, said Eric I. Bustillo, Director of the SECs Miami Regional Office. This settlement achieves both objectives by stripping Quiros of the proceeds of his fraudulent scheme and requiring him to turn over valuable property for the benefit of harmed investors.

The SECs emergency action halted an alleged massive fraud that Jay Peak, Quiros, and Stenger perpetrated on more than 700 investors from at least 74 countries, said Stephanie Avakian, Co-Director of the SECs Enforcement Division.

As a result of the SECs action, a court-appointed receiver has successfully turned around the resorts finances, and the case will result in hundreds of investors receiving significant portions and, in some cases, all of their investments returned to them, said Steven Peikin, Co-Director of the SECs Enforcement Division.

The SEC also announced that a business associate of Quiros, William Stenger of Newport, Vermont, agreed to settle the charges against him in the SECs complaint. While Stenger was not alleged to have personally profited from the fraud, he agreed to pay a $75,000 penalty and be barred along with Quiros from participating in any future EB-5 offerings. Quiros and Stenger agreed to their settlements without admitting or denying the allegations in the SECs complaint.The credit rating agency revealed that it has revised its growth estimate for Finland for 2017 to 3.0 per cent. The growth, it added, is expected to slow down to 2.4 per cent in 2018 and to 2.0 per cent in 2019 as a result of the narrowing of the positive output gap, the impact of inflation on disposable household income, and the diminishing of the gains from the competitiveness pact.

Fitch expects growth to slow further towards a long-term average of 1.2 per cent as medium-term growth challenges persist, including an ageing population constraining growth in the labour force, it stated in its country report.

The social and health care reform is another key issue for Finland. Fitch estimates that the reform could have a positive impact on public finances if it is delivered and implemented successfully.

The countrys track record of sound policy implementation and strong commitment to reform from different political and social partners will according to the credit rating agency reduce the risks associated with the complex and challenging reform.

Finland was recently warned about the risks arising from its ageing population also by DBRS, a Canadian credit rating agency. DBRS stated earlier this month that the contraction of the working-age population will constrain the countrys growth potential and undermine the sustainability of public finances in the medium-to-long term.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT

Photo: Heikki Saukkomaa  LehtikuvaJOHN HOWELL has called for an immediate halt to parking enforcement at the Townlands Memorial Hospital in Henley.

The Henley MP says the system is not suitable as it is unclear and has led to dozens of complaints by patients and relatives who have been caught out and issued with fines.

The car park at the new 10 million hospital off York Road is monitored by Smart Parking, which also used to enforce the car park at the neighbouring Bell and Hart Surgeries until it was effectively sacked after only a few months last year following scores of complaints.

The company uses automatic number plate recognition cameras to log vehicles entering and leaving the car park.

Patients have to enter their registration details on a keypad at reception to receive free parking and there is meant to be a 20-minute grace period for those passing through or dropping off patients. However, the hospital has been inundated with complaints from patients and drivers about being given fines of 60, which go up to 100 if not paid within 14 days, despite following the rules.

Mr Howell wants the NHS to suspend the system at Townlands and for all the outstanding fines to be cancelled and the pursuit of debts to be stopped.

He told the Henley Standard: I want it put on hold for the time being. The system used for parking is unclear and technology is difficult for some to use. As a result, some people are not sure what is required of them to legally park and thus have not always complied with the requirements.

Others have tried to use the technology but without success and still more have been issued notices incorrectly when they entered and left within the agreed 20-minute grace period.

I am fully aware that there have been problems with parking at the hospital.

I am also mindful that people visiting the hospital will either be unwell themselves or often in some sort of stress or distress as they seek to assist relatives and friends who are unwell.

It would seem that the system is inappropriate for the circumstances and the notices issued are adding to this stress for all concerned.

Given the problems, I have suggested that the most reasonable action is that an immediate hold is put on pursuing all notices issued at this location and then all issued in these questionable circumstances are cancelled.

[Patients] have been tripped up by a system that doesnt allow them flexibility and thats wrong.

You cant have a system operate like that  there needs to be one which offers an extra 10 minutes at the end and doesnt issue tickets before drivers have actually parked.

The enforcement cameras were brought in at the car parks in April following complaints that they were being abused by people visiting the town to shop rather than attending appointments at the hospital or the surgeries.

After cancelling their contract with Smart Parking, the Surgeries urged patients to leave spaces in their car park for elderly and vulnerable people and instead park at the nearby Kings Road car park.

Mr Howell said: I fully accept that theres a problem with people that unsociably use the Townlands parking for those purposes and that some system will need to be put in place to manage that.

But it needs to be one thats much more sensitive, more sociable and takes into account the attitude of the GPs.

He has written to Stuart Bell, chief executive of the Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, asking for a new plan for the car parks.

Mr Howell said: Theres clearly a problem with parking there which needs to be managed.

He has also written to Paul Gillespie, chief executive of Smart Parking, saying that although the surgeries had cancelled the companys contract, many patients were still being pursued over outstanding fines.

Last month, the Henley Standard reported that patients of the surgeries were still being threatened by bailiffs over unpaid parking fines which should have been cancelled

The surgeries said would arrange for the fines to be scrapped but they were being ignored by the company.

A spokesman for NHS Property Services, which is responsible for the Townlands site, said: The Smart Parking system has helped ensure free spaces are available for hospital patients.

However, we are listening to the concerns raised by local people and will continue to request improvements from Smart Parking.

Unless we are satisfied that Smart Parking can bring in solutions, we will consider alternative parking management arrangements at Townlands.Brigham Young University

FHE  A Family Home Evening event about black Mormons will be at 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Monday in the Education in Zion Gallery in the Joseph F. Smith Building. The event will teach about Jane Manning James, Martha Stevens Perkins Howell, Samuel D. Chambers and Mary Frances Sturlaugson. Call (801) 422-6519 for reservations.

Forum  Dhanurjay DJ Patil, the former U.S. chief data scientist, will give the forum address at 11:05 a.m. Tuesday in the Marriott Center. The forum will be broadcast on BYUtv, BYUtv.org and archived at speeches.byu.edu.

Merit badge opportunity  A merit badge blitz event will be held from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday at the BYU Museum of Peoples and Cultures. Boy Scouts can receive their Indian Lore Merit Badge at the event. To register, go to mpc.byu.edu.

Honor Week  Several events will take place throughout Honor Week. A Chalk Circle Challenge will be at 11 a.m. Monday in the quad of the Joseph F. Smith Building. The BYU Student Association will hand out free chocolate milk and hot chocolate. Other events include a T-shirt handout, speed dating and Shoot for Honor event with student athletes.

Utah Valley University

German author visit  Franz J. Sedelmayer, a German author, visited UVU on Feb. 8. He wrote the book Welcome to Putingrad about his time in Russia.

Innovation awards  Austin Bettridge and Kevin Shurtleff won the UVU Innovation Challenge in December. The competition had students map the problem of poor air quality and come up with three clean air ideas. The challenge, which took two months, started in September. Bettridge and Shurtleff were advised by Luke Peterson, a professor and director of the Office of New Urban Mechanics. The proposal included cleaning the air by making green space and producing renewable electric energy with solar updraft towers.

International dignitary visits  Bakhtiyor Ibragimov, the ambassador to the United Nations from Uzbekistan, visited UVU on Feb. 5. Ibragimov was on campus as part of the International Dignitary Lecture Series and spoke on the new government of Uzbekistan.Teutonic military history of the 20th century was marked by tactical brilliance but undone by strategic incompetence.

The 20th century opened with an unprecedented flurry of technological and scientific advances. Among the nations at the forefront of those advances was Chancellor Otto von Bismarcks creation, the German Empire. The leaders of that state were confident Germany would advance from its position as the dominant European power to become the dominant world power. They were wrong; it did not. Instead, two great world wars, both instigated and pursued by the Germans, destroyed Bismarcks creation and left Germany just another European state.

This turn of events, which played out over the first half of the 20th century, is directly tied to the effectiveness and failuresof Germanys military institutions. It is clear the Germans produced extraordinary military institutions. Indeed, on the tactical level, those institutions essentially invented modern ground warfare. But at the same time, Germanys military leaders repeatedly proved incapable of thinking through the operational consequences of their tactical successes, much less the strategic and political implications of the conflicts on which they so readily embarked.

In short, the picture of modern German military effectiveness is one of battlefield brilliance mixed with myopic vision at the strategic level. That combination ensured that German defeat would do maximum damage not only to the Reichs neighbors, but also to the German people themselves. At the Battle of the Marne in September 1914 and again at the Battle of Moscow in December 1941early in each of the world warsGermany had already reached the point where defeat was inevitable. Yet, tragically, the tactical competence of German military forces ensured each conflict would last another four years at terrible cost to all involved.

The toxic combination of tactical brilliance and strategic incompetence is readily apparent in the German armys developing performance in the two world wars.

The armies that embarked on war in August 1914 were in most respects, except the technological, closer to the armies that fought at Waterloo than to those that fought in the climactic battles of 1918. In 1914 French armies had marched into machine-gun and artillery fire during the opening battles, leaving nearly 300,000 of their soldiers dead by the end of the Battle of the Marne.

The Germans displayed little more initial tactical proficiency than the French: At the Battle of Langemark in Flanders in late fall 1914, the Germans sent battalion-sized columns of ill-trained university students directly into the deadly fire of professional British infantry. In what they later termed the Battle of the Innocents, the Germans lost 30,000 soldiers out of 37,000 by the battles endAdolf Hitler being one of the few survivors.

The invention of modern war at the tactical level began toward the end of the 1916 Battle of the Somme, a struggle renowned in the British mythology of the war for the disastrous loss of 57,000 soldiers on the first day. On that day the Germans suffered minimal casualties, but over the remainder of the 142-day campaign, under a rain of British and French shellfire, the Germans suffered losses they could ill afford. The battle of materiel, as they termed it, represented a serious drain on the German army from which it never fully recovered.

At this point in the war, the kaiser appointed the two generals who had commanded German armies on the Eastern FrontField Marshal Paul von Hindenburg and his chief of staff, General Erich Ludendorffto command the overall German war effort. Ludendorff immediately traveled to the Western Front to see what was actually happening. His trip involved visiting not only senior generals, but also the field commanders and troop leaders who actually understood the problems at the front. And as noted in his memoirs, he demanded those with whom he met speak their minds and not pass along something made to order.

What emerged from Ludendorffs discussions was the realization that German commanders on the Somme were demanding that defending troops hold every square yard of trench. The result was that infantry found itself packed into frontline trenches, where British and French artillery simply butchered it. In reaction, Ludendorffs general staff officers quickly developed the doctrinal concept of defense in depth. The Germans thereby invented modern defensive warfare, in which a thin skin of machine gunners held the front lines and increasingly strong defensive positions ensnared any enemy offensive. Moreover, since the bulk of the infantry remained deep behind the front lines, it was no longer within range of enemy artillery and could launch quick, decisive counterattacks. At the same time, German artillery could also withdraw and diminish the effectiveness of Allied counter-battery fire. The new defensive doctrine also emphasized decentralized, aggressive leadership by frontline officers and NCOs, who now could make decisions on the spot without waiting for orders.

What was particularly impressive about Germanys tactical performance over the winter of 191617 was that it not only developed an entirely new approach to defensive warfare, but also managed to retrain its entire army in the new tactics by spring 1917while under fire. Its defensive stance on the Champagne front ultimately thwarted a major French offensive in turn based on tactics that had worked well during the last stages of the November 1916 Verdun campaign, but were now fundamentally flawed in the face of the new German defensive system.

Based on that system of decentralized aggressive counterattacks, the Germans then developed modern offensive combined-arms tactics, which involved not only decentralized leadership at the front, but combined-arms exploitation of weaknesses in the enemys frontline defenses. By spring 1918, such tactics allowed the Germans to bring movement back to the battlefield in their great offensives and win a series of victories that were astonishing in comparison to the previous three years of static combat on the Western Front.

And yet, those tactical successes failed to bring the Germans victory in the war. Why? The failure to understand the political and strategic realities of the war in 1916 simply rendered German tactical effectiveness irrelevant: At the same time he set in motion the tactical revolution in 1916, Ludendorff was lobbying hard in support of the Imperial German Navys efforts to resume unrestricted submarine warfare, a move practically everyone but Ludendorff understood would bring the United States into the war.

With Ludendorffs and Hindenburgs support, Germanywhich would help pioneer the development of the submarine despite starting World War I with barely 20 operational boats resumed unrestricted submarine warfare in early 1917, and, sure enough, the United States entered the war in April. Barely a year later, American troops were arriving in France at the rate of approximately 250,000 a month, and those fresh American divisions would play a major role in cracking the German army. Ludendorff had based his opinion on the belief that military necessity should trump all other concerns, including strategic and political matters.

And there lay the great weakness of the German way of war. The emphasis on military necessity had led the Germans to use their Schlieffen Plan to invade Belgium, a move that ensured Britain would immediately enter the war. When they did, the British arrived on the flank of French armies in August 1914, preventing General Alexander von Klucks First Army from outflanking the French. They played a major role in the Battle of the Marne by entering the gap between the German First and Second armies and then defeated the German attacks in the Battle of Langemark, thus preventing the Germans from capturing the channel ports.

But the most important contribution the British made was to secure Allied control of the oceans, the global economy and Americas benevolent neutrality major strategic concerns overlooked by the Germans. By 1916 the British army had grown to a force of more than 50 divisions, which, despite ham-handed leadership, hammered the Germans from 1916 on and eventually proved to be the crucial instrument in the Allied victories that shattered the German army.

German devotion to military necessity had contributed to a number of other crucial political and strategic mistakes early in the war. Fearful the French and Belgians might resort to guerrilla war, the Germans shot 6,000 Belgian and French civilians in response to incidents that in almost every case represented either legitimate resistance or cases of friendly fire. The German atrocities of August and September 1914 went a long way toward persuading the neutral Americans that Germany was beyond the pale.

The introduction of chemical warfare the following April intensified American outrage. There were ironies in Germanys introduction of gas. For one, prevailing winds carried the gas back over German trenches. Also, gas masks were primarily composed of rubber, a raw material readily available to the Allies, but not the Germans, through wars end. The sinking of the passenger liner Lusitania in April 1915, which augured the first phase of unrestricted submarine warfare, brought America to the brink of war; only Woodrow Wilsons hedging delayed that strategic disaster for Germany.

Regardless, the German navy harbored its own strategic stupidityit continued to wage a political campaign for the resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare. Putting forth bogus figures of what its U-boats could achieve while ignoring the tonnage of neutral shipping available to the Allies, the German admirals carried their argument to the army and to Ludendorff never one to deny the overwhelming importance of military necessity.

Confronted with the reality that Americans would begin to arrive in substantial numbers in 1918, Ludendorff rebuffed all suggestions of a peaceful compromise in which the Reich might abandon its conquests in the west to keep its eastern gains. Instead, he launched a series of tactical offensives, none of which had any clear operational goals. The result was exhaustion of his army and losses on a scale Germany could not sustain, but the Allies could. Nothing could make clearer the lack of strategic vision and understanding in the German way of war.

Historians have often argued that military institutions study the last war, and that is why they perform badly in the next. Few myths perpetrated by historians could be more misleading. In fact, those military institutions that honestly examine history can learn crucial lessons; those that refuse to heed the past pay a terrible price in the lives of their soldiers and, in some cases, their national existence. Here Germanys case is particularly instructive, for while it did study those areas in which the armed forces had performed well, it largely ignored its greatest failings.

In 1920 General Hans von Seeckt, the sharpest officer on the general staff of the Weimar Republics Reichswehr, assumed the position of commander in chief. In the face of Allied demands that Germany drastically reduce the size of its army, von Seeckt placed the general staff in control of the officer corps. He also launched a massive lessons-learned initiative in which 57 committees collaborated on an honest and thorough study of the tactical lessons of World War I. Thus postwar German doctrine incorporated the lessons of decentralized, combined-arms exploitation, and in 1933 the general staff produced the doctrinal manual Truppenfuhrung, which formed the basis for the great victories of 1940 and 1941.

But what the armyor the navy, for that matterfailed to examine were the strategic and political lessons of the conflict. Germany had lost World War I because it had consistently ignored the larger consequences of its military actions and consequently had ended up fighting all the other major world powers with only the ramshackle Ottoman and Hapsburg empires and Bulgaria as allies. The overall cause of Germanys defeat should have been obvious. Yet, to have admitted that Germanys defeat had arisen from strategic myopia would have been to admit military culpability.

Instead, the militaryand indeed most Germansstill entranced by the victories of spring 1918, fastened on the myths that the army had stood unbroken and undefeated in the field, and that Jews and Communists had stabbed it in the back. The military also blamed the defeat and collapse on politicians, whom it had denied all responsibility for the conduct of the war until October 1918. Most of the generals believed Germany simply needed a leader, a fuhrer, who could unite the population behind a future war while letting the military fight a conflict of pure military necessitythus laying the groundwork for the same blunders that doomed Germany in the earlier war.

On Jan. 30, 1933, Adolf Hitler took power as the Reichs chancellor. That was precisely what the German Wehrmachtnow comprising the army (Heer), navy (Kreigsmarine) and air force (Luftwaffe)had wanted. Thus, the political naivete of the generals played a crucial role in first bringing Hitler to power and then supporting his massive military buildup, which could have no purpose other than to fight another great world war. In fact, within the first week of his coming to power, Hitler made clear to his leading generals that his purpose in rebuilding the Reichs military was not simply to revise the Treaty of Versailles, but to overthrow the existing world order.

Only in 1938 would there be a serious disagreement between Hitler and a handful of the armys generals. At that point, having annexed Austria into the Third Reich, Hitler was about to launch the Wehrmacht against Czechoslovakia. The chief of the general staff, General Ludwig Beck, tried to rally leading generals against Hitlers desire for military confrontation with the Czechs, as in his analysis the strategic situation was entirely weighted against the Reich. The great majority of the generals obdurately refused. Erich von Manstein, a future field marshal, urged Beck to support Hitler, as so far he has always been correct over political matters. The infamous denouement of the crisis was that British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain ceded Czech Sudetenland to the Nazis, Beck resigned as chief of staff, and Hitler achieved a great political victory over his external and internal opponents.

On Sept.1,1939, Hitler unleashed the Wehrmacht on Poland and set off World War II. His generals offered not the slightest peep of opposition; indeed, those of Prussian ancestry were delighted at the opportunity to destroy the Polish state. Germanys strategy was now entirely Hitlers province, with the generals simply his technicians of violence. The nine months that followed the conquest of Poland witnessed a string of astonishing German victories that evinced extraordinary skill at the tactical and operational levels, if not the logistical at the outbreak of war only about 20 percent of the German army was fully motorized, with the majority of units still relying on horse-drawn transport.

Poland, Denmark, Norway, Luxembourg, Holland, Belgium and France fell like dominos. But then came the Battle of Britain, which suggested some glaring weaknesses in the German approach to strategy and operations. Put simply, none of the three German services displayed the slightest understanding of joint operations or the difficulties conquering the British Isles might entail. Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel, chief operations officer of the Armed Forces High Command (the Oberkommando der Wehrmacht, or OKW), suggested in a June 30, 1940, memo that crossing the channel should prove no more difficult than a river crossing. The Luftwaffes intelligence assessment of Britains air-defense system managed to get every major fact wrong except for the number of aircraft the Royal Air Force Fighter Command possessed. Not surprisingly, the Battle of Britain was a dismal failure not just for the Luftwaffe, but also for German strategy.

The German response to the difficulties Britain posed was not to reexamine fundamental assumptions, but instead to deny there was a problem. Given his ideological attitudes, Hitlers focus almost immediately after the defeat of France had turned to the Soviet Union. But the armys leadership had moved in that direction even faster than the fuhrer. In early July 1940, Field Marshal Walther von Brauchitsch, the armys commander in chief, and General Franz Halder, the chief of staff, had begun planning Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union. Given the Luftwaffes focus on continental war, it is not surprising that its chief of staff, General Hans Jeschonnek, would comment upon the invasion of the Soviet Union, At last, a proper war!

Underlying the Barbarossa plan was Hitlers ideological crusade to conquer the Jewish-Bolshevist state and implement the racial cleansing of Europe. From the opening days of the invasion, regular army troops actively and enthusiastically cooperated in the massacre of Jews and other undesirables along with Russias entire educated elite. Hitlers political aim was to create a population of slaves to do their German conquerors bidding. As an order of the day, Panzer Group 4 commanding General Erich Hoeppner stated: The objective of this battle must be the demolition of present-day Russia and must therefore be conducted with unprecedented severity.In particular, no adherents of the contemporary Russian Bolshevik system are to be spared. But that approach only served to destroy all possibility of politically undermining the Soviet Unions rulers, as had occurred in World War I. Stalins regime, though hardly popular at home, was thus able to rally the Soviet people against an even more heinous enemy and fight a war of popular liberation.

If the strategic and political assumptions of Operation Barbarossa werent bad enough, the operational planning and execution were equally faulty. Operational excellence is not just a matter of battlefield execution, but also a matter of intelligence regarding the nature of ones enemy and logistics. In the case of the former, Germany failed to grasp both the numbers and tenacity of its Soviet opponent. As Halder noted in his journal in early August 1941:

The whole situation shows more and more clearly that we have underestimated the colossus of Russia.We have already identified 360 [Soviet divisions]. The divisions are admittedly not armed and equipped in our sense, and tactically they are badly led. But there they are, and when we destroy a dozen, the Russians simply establish another dozen.

Underlining the extent of Germanys folly is the fact that logisticians had warned that the advance into the Soviet Union would outrun its supply lines by the time it reached two-thirds of the distance to Leningrad in the north, to Smolensk in the center and midway down the Don in the south. Halders warning went unheeded, while planners simply assumed their forces would destroy the Red Army in the border areas and then advance unhindered into the heart of Russia. In October 1941 the logisticians again warned that the army faced two crucial choices: either bring up heavy clothing and winter-weight fuels and prepare supply dumps appropriate to winter weather, or bring up ammunition and fuel to support the advance on Moscow. Its not difficult to guess the choice German commanders made, nor the results: soldiers shivered in gabardine uniforms, while their vehicles gearboxes froze solid.

But the defeat in front of Moscow only exposed the operational and strategic failures of the campaign against the Soviet Union. Other strategic blunders soon followed. In the midst of the growing disaster on the Eastern Front, the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, and four days later, Hitler declared war on the United States before an enthusiastic Reichstag. While Hitler seemingly never bothered to consult his senior military leadersmany of whom he was firing for the troubles in the eastthere is little evidence they would have advised an alternative course. The navy leadership, for one, had been urging Hitler to declare war on the United States since midsummer. When Hitler inquired of his military staff in East Prussia whether anyone knew where Pearl Harbor was, not a single officer could locate the base on the globeastonishing strategic and geographic ignorance for people planning to conquer the world.

Intelligence failures were another major contributor to Germanys ultimate defeat. For example, as the Allies successively broke Germanys most important codes, its military hierarchy remained oblivious. In fact, the Germans were surprisingly ignorant of their enemies. The Soviets were able to disguise virtually every one of their major offensives from 1942 to the end of the war through the skillful use of deception operations; a key factor in their success was continued German contempt for those subhumans on the opposing side of the Eastern Front. Matters were no better on the Western Front, where the Allies executed a series of elaborate deception operations to convince the Germans the great French amphibious invasion would come at Pas de Calais. Even after the Allies fought their way ashore in Normandy, deception operations continued to persuade the OKW the main landing was yet to occur at Pas de Calais.

Well before the events of 1944, it should have been clear to Germany the war was lost. But the military leadership, its back covered by a regime that ensured the absolute obedience of its people, fought on to the bitter end. Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, whom many German generals accused postwar of not understanding strategy, had astutely prepared for the Allied assault on the basis that if the Wehrmacht failed to stop the landing itself, the war was irrevocably lost. He was right; in fact Rommel had a far better grasp of strategy than did his critics.

World War II historian Gerhard Weinberg has best encapsulated the strategic comprehension of most German military leaders. He notes that their memoirs consistently followed the line, If the fuhrer had only listened to me, but that they failed to grasp what serious study of the wars history and strategy surely suggested: The war would have lasted another six months, and the Americans would have dropped the atomic bomb on Germany.

For further reading, Williamson Murray recommends his own A War to Be Won: Fighting the Second World War, with coauthor Allan R. Millett, as well as A World at Arms, A Global History of World War II, by Gerhard L. Weinberg, and The First World War: Germany and Austria-Hungary, 1914 1918, by Holger H. Herwig.

Originally published in the January 2010 issue of Military History. To subscribe, click here.In 1984 the nation officially laid to rest the remains of an unknown serviceman from the Vietnam War. By 1998 he was unknown no more.

After more than a decade of uncertainty, the nation was finally honoring the Unknown of the Vietnam War the long conflict that continued to stir argument for years after the last U.S. troops had withdrawn from Southeast Asia. On May 28, 1984, some 3,000 guests took their seats in the amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, where President Ronald Reagan strode to the podium and launched into a long-overdue tribute to the Vietnam Unknown and those who had served with him.

The Unknown soldier who has returned to us todayis symbolic of all our missing sons, said Reagan. Today we pause to embrace him and all who served us so well in a war whose end offered no parades, no flags and so little thanks.

As Reagan spoke, a sultry breeze stirred American flags behind him; before him sat reminders of the wars cost a man with a black eyepatch, a squadron of young veterans in wheelchairs, a scattering of others sitting with crutches or canes at the ready. Several hundred others in the audience had never served in Vietnam but nonetheless carried deep wounds from the conflict; their loved ones were among the 2,500 men still missing in action, nine years after Americans ended their involvement in the war.

To reassure this last group, Reagan promised the government would continue searching for their lost brothers, fathers and husbands, no matter how long it took. An end to Americas involvement in Vietnam cannot come before we have achieved the fullest possible accounting of those missing in action, he said.

Coming full circle, Reagan turned back to the man of the hour, whose flag-covered casket occupied center stage. Thank you, dear son, said Reagan, his voice cracking, and may God cradle you in His loving arms. The president crossed the stage and draped the Congressional Medal on a velvet stand at the foot of the Unknowns bier. Then the nameless hero of Vietnam was borne away by eight comrades who slow-marched him from the amphitheater out onto the terrace overlooking Washington, where Reagan joined mourners for final honors. The Army Band rolled the drums and sent America, the Beautiful sailing out over the cemetery. Pallbearers lifted the flag from the casket, folded it into a taut triangle and passed it down the line to Reagan, who accepted it as the Unknowns next of kin. Reagan nodded his thanks, entrusted the flag to Arlingtons superintendent and turned for home, having put in a performance considered one of his most affecting.

Later that evening, cemetery workers lowered the Unknown into the ground, where he would rest beside his comrades from World War I, World War II and Korea. Just before midnight, a marble slab was hoisted into place over the new crypt and sealed flush with the plaza; its simple inscription, 1958 1975, was a reminder that the undeclared conflict in Vietnam had been the longest war in American history.

Reagans appearance at the cemetery was designed to smooth over raw memories of Vietnam and reinforce the pride of those who had served there. Since the time of his election in 1980, he had worked toward this symbolic moment at Arlington, which would not only bury an individual combatant, but also, with luck, the wars divisive legacy.

By this time the number of unidentified war dead who might qualify for burial had been whittled down to just four candidates out of more than 47,000 killed in combat. Some specialists held out hope that each of those remaining four could have their names restored by further investigation. Though few candidates were available for Unknown honors by the 1980s, Vietnam veterans continued to press for a new tomb at Arlington, in part to justify their sacrifice, in part to ease the pains of the inhospitable homecoming so many had endured. Reagan sought to rectify those insults, which set him on the path to that unforgettable Memorial Day of 1984.

The journey might have ended there, with the Unknown resting forever in marble splendor. But just as the fighting for Vietnam was seldom predictable, so with the wars aftermath. Fourteen years after Reagans appearance at Arlington, the unthinkable happened: The Tomb of the Vietnam Unknown was broken open, not to the rousing call of Gabriels trumpet, but to the prosaic shriek of a diamond-tipped saw biting through granite. Near midnight on May 13, 1998, workers made their way into the tomb, lifting the heavy marble marker, prizing the lid from the Unknowns vault and bringing his steel casket up into the night. When the foggy morning of May 14 arrived, so did a military band, which struck up Amazing Grace to announce the next, wholly unexpected leg of the Unknowns journey. Covered in a new flag and bundled into a hearse, he was driven to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, where his meager remains were prepared for DNA testing. The analysis provided a name for the Unknown: He was 1st Lt. Michael J. Blassie, a 24-year old Air Force pilot shot down over An Loc, South Vietnam, in 1972.

The final chapter of Blassies storyfrom the Air Force Academy to a jungle war zone, to years of limbo in mortuaries and labs, to the ceremonial heights of Arlington and finally home to his native St. Louisis a narrative spanning more than a quarter century, with enough twists and turns to make his experience seem like a work of barely plausible fiction. It is a story confused by the fog of war, the loss of crucial evidence, the misreading of forensic data and the well-meaning but poorly considered ministrations of a Reagan White House keen to enshrine an Unknown for political purposes, despite the sketchiness of the evidence, the objections of service families and the warning of a key Army officer who worried that the Unknown was being rushed to the grave.

That officer, Johnie E. Webb Jr., was a Vietnam veteran and a major commanding the Armys Central Identification Laboratory in the early 1980s when his Pentagon superiors began squeezing him to find an Unknown. There was a lot of pressure to get a Vietnam Unknown, recalled Webb, who still serves as a civilian in the Pentagons Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command, which oversees operations of the laboratory at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. All the pressure was coming to bear on me, said Webb. He described the tug-of-war over Michael Blassie as the most trying period of his long military career.

The chain of events that brought Blassie to Arlington was set in motion by the bleating of a Klaxon at Bien Hoa Air Base at dawn on May 11, 1972. Blassie rushed to his A-37 Dragonfly attack jet, strapped in and zoomed northwest toward An Loc in formation with Major Jim Connally, the flight commander, who piloted an identical Dragonfly. Each plane was equipped with two 500-pound napalm bombs; the napalm was meant for enemy antiaircraft emplacements near An Loc, a strategically situated city of 30,000 near the Cambodian border.

Under siege by North Vietnamese troops, An Loc held off its attackers, in part with air support from pilots like Blassie, a decorated veteran of 132 such combat missions. Connally led the attack on May 11, whizzing in low over enemy guns, releasing one bomb and pulling up to open the way for Blassie. Blassie put his jet into a dive but was hit by antiaircraft fire. His jet rolled over and slammed into the earth with a tremendous explosion. Connally circled but saw no sign of a parachute, no sign of life on the ground below. He summoned Cobra helicopters for search-and-rescue operationsto no avail. The team pulled out after determining that Mike indeed had gone in with the aircraft, Connally reported to Blassies family shortly after the crash. The helicopters, caught in a murderous hail of fire, pulled back. Connally continued circling until the last hope faded and all other aircraft departed the scene.

Fierce fighting around An Loc marooned Blassies wreckage for more than five months while his parents and four siblings in St. Louis grieved over his disappearance and hoped for some word regarding his fate. None was forthcoming. We didnt hear a whole lot for a period of time, said Patricia S. Blassie, age 14 when her brother vanished. They told us they couldnt recover him, but they knew he was killed.

Unable to reach An Loc by chopper, Blassies comrades finally dispatched allies from the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) to comb through the area. An ARVN patrol made its way to the coordinates of Blassies crash and found an A-37 wreck on Oct. 11, 1972. With it they discovered what remained of Blassiefour ribs, one humerus and part of a pelvis. From the same site the ARVN team recovered physical evidenceBlassies military identification card, remnants of his flight suit, an ammunition pouch, a parachute fragment, a holster for a signal marker, a piece of his pistol holster, a life raft, a wallet and a small amount of local currency.

Packing away the remains and evidence, the patrol trekked through the jungle to a rendezvous point, where Army Lieutenant Chris Calhoun and other American advisors were waiting. Calhoun, taking charge of the airmans remains and other evidence, called for a chopper, which came in over the trees and dropped into a makeshift landing zone. Two bags, containing Blassies remains and the physical evidence, were tossed aboard. Army Captain Richard S. Hess, another advisor on the scene that day, witnessed their transfer to the Tan Son Nhut Air Base in Saigon. In a later statement, Hess recalled details from Blassies ID card: Name: Blaisse (sic), Michael Joseph, 1LT, 6 foot 200 lbs picture showed with mustache, dark hair. Hesss recollection would later prove to be a critical clue. The reason? During Blassies journey from An Loc to Saigon, his wallet, identification card and money disappeared.

Thus began the St. Louis airmans long descent into limbo. There was enough evidence to form a reasonable hypothesis that the bones and other material from the crash probably belonged to Blassie, but not enough to support a positive identification. Reliable DNA testing, still decades in the future, was unavailable when Blassies remains arrived at the Ton San Nhut mortuary in November 1972. Because mortuary specialists had insufficient proof for certain identification, they kept Blassies family in the dark. His parents, George and Jean Blassie, were not informed that remains and related evidence had been recovered from their sons crash. George Blassie, a meat cutter in a suburb of St. Louis, kept his sons memory alive by furnishing a basement room with photographs and other memorabilia from Michaels career. And each morning George Blassie raised the Stars and Stripes in his front yard, dutifully reversing the ritual every evening.

With the Vietnam conflicts end in sight, the military stepped up withdrawal of its remaining forces, along with the hundreds of unidentified combatants stored in wartime mortuaries. Blassies remains, evidence and related paperwork were shifted to Camp Samae San, Thailand, in 1973. They were moved again in 1976, a year after Saigon fell to Communist forces; this transfer took Blassie to the Armys new forensic laboratory near Honolulu, where investigators methodically worked to provide names for unidentified servicemenby poring over after-action reports, interviewing witnesses, scrutinizing debris from crashes and analyzing bone fragments. Like others caught between combat and final honors, Blassie awaited the one scrap of evidence that would end his war.

Instead of resolving the airmans identity, though, investigators from the Hawaii lab sent his case deeper into the shadows as 1978 drew to a close. That is when Blassies box was taken from the shelf and his bones were spread out on a stainless steel table for inspection. Tadao Furue, a physical anthropologist with more than 20 years of forensic experience and a reputation for making osseous material give up its secrets, supervised the examination. Using time-honored anthropological identification methods, he measured the airmans bones for comparison to averages derived from thousands of others to determine the likely age, height and sex of the person on his table.

Based on his analysis, Furue concluded that the bones labeled TSN 063-72 BTB Blassie did not match Michael Blassies physical profile. Instead, Furue suggested, the remains belonged to a man who was between 30 and 40 years of age. Blassie was 24. Furue guessed the height of his patient to be between 5-foot-6 and 5-foot-11a possible match, since Blassie stood between 5-foot-11 and 6 feet, but at the outer limit of the average. Finally, Furue discovered a small, light brown body hair on a fragment of the flight suit recovered with Blassie; this miniscule clue yielded another piece of evidence, fixing the dead mans blood as type O. Blassies was type A.

Based on these three findings, Furue recommended, in a memorandum dated Dec. 4, 1978, that the remains previously associated with Blassie be reclassified as unidentified and that the airmans name be stripped from the accompanying case file. A military review board declared Blassies remains as unidentified and rescinded his Believed To Be status on May 7, 1980. His bones were assigned a new file number, TSN 0673-72 X-26. The X-designation, which took the place of Blassies name, pushed him one step closer to the Tomb of the Unknowns. While Blassie remained on the shelf in Hawaii, political pressure increased in Washington, where a tomb had been prepared for the Vietnam Unknown at Arlington but remained empty.

By the early 1980s, key officials of the Reagan administration evinced little patience for more investigation, having satisfied themselves that suitable remains were available if only the Central Identification Laboratory could be prodded to produce them. President Reaganwanted to go forward with it, as a way to honor those who served and as a way to reach closure on the Vietnam era, recalled John O. Marsh Jr., who as secretary of the Army became Reagans point man for the Vietnam initiative. The process was held up because some of the people in the forensic area began to have second thoughts about it, said Marsh. The former congressman from Virginia had no such qualms. Its what the American Legion, the VFW, the Congress and President Reagan wanted to do.My role was to jump-start the process.

Having borne more delay that he thought reasonable, Marsh made his move on June 16, 1982, declaring the time had come to bury the symbolic warrior from Vietnam. We have remains which meet the legal requirements for the Unknown, Marsh told Caspar Weinberger, secretary of defense, that day. After careful consideration, I have concluded that the interests of the nation are served best by proceeding with the anonymous selection and subsequent interment of a Vietnam Unknown from these candidates. This coming Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 1982, would be an appropriate date, since the World War I Unknown was also interred on Armistice Day.

Marshs proposal ignited howls of protest from the National League of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia, which believed the action was premature. We are opposed to the interment of any remains now held, Ann Mills Griffiths, executive director the National League, wrote Weinberger in July. She presciently warned against interring an individual who may be identified at some point in the future. Her note set off alarms in the Reagan White House, where Richard T. Childress, a Vietnam veteran and influential member of the National Security Council staff, sided with Griffiths. Pointing out that the Unknown contenders might be identified in the future, he cautioned against rushing the process, which could be perceived as nakedly political. We simply cant have the public believe we created an unknown for interment, Childress told William P. Clark, Reagans national security chief. Faced with these objections, Weinberger delayed the selection so the forensics laboratory in Hawaii could narrow its list of Unknown candidates.

That list had been reduced to four contenders by June 1984. One by one, these prospects came off the list: Two servicemen were identified and sent home to their families; a third was disqualified because the circumstances of his death could not be verified, as required by the legislation that made provision for a Vietnam Unknown. That reduced the roster of candidates to just onethe man tagged as TSN 0673-72 (X-26). With no choices remaining, Weinberger informed Reagan on March 16, 1984, that the Pentagon was ready to bury X-26 as the Vietnam Unknown on Memorial Day. In 1982 we began an intensive effort to determine whether any of the remains in our possession are qualified for the Vietnam Unknown, Weinberger reported. We concluded that we have one set of remains which cannot be identified and which, although not as complete as we would like, meets the legal requirements for the Vietnam Unknown. Weinberger did not mention the doubts about X-26 or Blassies associations with the remains and crash site. Reagan wanted his Unknown, said a historian at Arlington. Nobody was going to stop it.

In Hawaii, however, Webb made one last try. These remains should be disqualified for selection as the Unknown because of past and present name associations, he wrote to Washington about the time of Weinbergers announcement. Webb sketched out the tangled story of X-26. Without naming Blassie, Webb reminded his superiors the X-26 case had been linked to a particular pilot who had been formerly assigned BTB (Believed To Be) status. He listed the evidence found with Blassie, including the one-man-raft, the flight suit, the parachute and the vanished identification card. For good measure, Webb also mentioned another unnamed casualty associated with the X-26 remains; he was referring to Capt. Rodney Strobridge, a missing helicopter pilot who matched the anthropological profile from Blassies crash but not other evidence from the site. Webbs note, sent to an assistant secretary of the Army, was supposed to be forwarded up the chain to John O. Marsh Jr. Marsh says he never saw the document. If Johnie Webb had second thoughts, I never heard about it, Marsh said recently. He shouldve said something. For his part, Webb avows that he did say somethingand that Washington ignored his warning.

Within five days of Weinbergers letter to Reagan, Webb received orders to certify that X-26 could never be identified, an action that would clear the way for Blassies entombment. Against his better judgment, Webb produced the required document on March 21, 1984, certifying that the remains of TSN 0673-72 (X-26) failed to support a positive identification with any known casualty of Southeast Asia. He swallowed hard, signed the statement and prepared Blassie for Arlington. In keeping with the tradition of the Unknowns, the Pentagon ordered Webb to surrender all original files relating to Blassie and to destroy all copies to guarantee the anonymity of the tomb. Webb obeyed the first part of this directive but not the second: He kept copies of the Blassie dossier in the belief they would be needed if the case was reopened. He also retained the life raft and other physical evidence linking Blassie to the crashwhich meant that man and artifacts would be buried together at Arlington.

These remains came in together with the material evidence, Webb recalled. I wanted to make sure everything stayed together. If the remains were going into the tomb, the artifacts needed to go to the tomb, so that at some point there was the historical perspective on what came in with these remains. Webb watched as Blassies bones were folded into an army blanket with the life raft, the parachute fragments, and other physical evidence. Webb saw the blanket fastened shut all around with safety pins to form a woolen envelope. He watched as it was eased into a polished steel casket. He saw the lid shut and heard the lock click in place. Blassie was ready for the next stage of his journey, which commenced on May 17, 1984.

For all the indignities Blassie had suffered, his passage from Hawaii to Washington constituted a sort of restitution. At Pearl Harbor he was presented with flowers by a Medal of Honor winner and given a place of pride aboard USS Brewton, the frigate that conveyed him past all the ships in Pearl Harbor while all rendered passing honors. On May 24, he sailed past the hills of San Francisco and into moorings at Alameda Naval Air Station, where further honors awaited: a 21 gun salute, a flyover of fighter jets and more eulogies. These preliminaries were but a warm-up for the state honors in Washington, where Blassie lay in state in the Capitol Rotunda, thousands turned out to pay their respects and Reagan delivered his famous Memorial Day speechall for the forgotten war that had finally earned its place at Arlington.

This, at least, was the plan, and to a large degree it succeeded. While Blassie slept in anonymity on the grand plaza of the amphitheater, dead comrades were found and restored to their families; old enemies shook hands and made peace at home and abroad; new wars boiled up; Reagan departed for California and the shadowy world of Alzheimers. George Blassie died in St. Louis, never knowing his son had come home. Jean Blassie carried on. Pat Blassie took her brothers place in the Air Force and worked her way up the ranks, earning her captains bars by 1994. Then, all of a sudden, the old ghosts of Vietnam came rumbling back.

That year, for the first time since Michael Blassies death in 1972, his family learned that the airmans remains had been found and, further, that he was most likely in the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington. This revelation came from an unlikely source, a Vietnam veteran named Ted Sampley, the scrappy publisher of the U.S. Veteran Dispatch in Kinston, North Carolina. Rooting through his extensive POW/MIA files and poring over Pentagon documents, Sampley independently pieced together his own version of Michael Blassies chronicle, publishing his findings on July 14, 1994.

Under the headline The Vietnam Unknown Soldier Can Be Identified, Sampley described the recovery of Blassies remains and identity card and the suggestive evidence linking Blassie with the Tomb of the Unknowns. Many facts pertaining to 1st Lt. Michael J. Blassies shootdown closely match those of the Unknown Soldier, Sampley reported. Noting recent advances in forensic technology, Sampley urged authorities to open the tomb and establish the airmans identity through DNA testing.

His revelation stirred up old feelings for the Blassie family, who relived the anguish of Michaels death. It was shock and disbelief, Pat Blassie recalled. I still marvel at it after all these years. They knew it was Michael. They didnt tell us because of the political expediency. They took his name away. We felt betrayed. Discouraged and numbed, the family let the matter drop for two years. Then Vince Gonzales, a producer from CBS News, read the Veteran Dispatch report, collected Sampleys extensive files and called the Blassie family. The Blassies gathered in St. Louis. They talked for hours until Jean Blassie signaled she had made a decision. I want to bring my son home, she said. The family rallied around. She granted CBS access to her sons files. Pat Blassie agreed to speak on camera. Gonzales wrapped up a seven-month investigation, and CBS Evening News broadcast the results on Jan. 19, 1998.

Blassie was almost certainly buried in the Tomb of the Unknowns, the report said. His identity had been known for decades, and the government had deliberately hidden this information from his family and the public, CBS reported. The report, which suggested the Tomb of the Unknowns be opened to establish its occupants identity, sparked outrage from the VFW and the American Legionthe same groups that had lobbied for selection of a Vietnam Unknown, now complaining that the Blassies threatened to violate the most sacred site at Arlington. Its not sacred if we know the name of the person you have there, Pat Blassie retorted. Thats not what the tomb was meant for.Either put his name on the tomb or disinter him for DNA testing.

William Cohen, secretary of defense under President Bill Clinton, moved quickly to quell the controversy. He ordered a high-level task force to examine the case, naming Rudy deLeon, respected undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, to head up the study group. The last thing we expected was that we were going to exhume the remains from Arlington, deLeon said recently. That was the last resort.

Instead, deLeon mounted a fact-finding mission with three goals: to establish that the casualty known as X-26 was indeed entombed at Arlington; to find a paper trail and evidence linking him to the 1972 crash in Vietnam; and to determine if new DNA testing could provide a foolproof identity. DeLeon met privately with Johnie Webb, who helped fill gaps in the record with the purloined papers he had copied in 1984. Webb also dropped the bombshell that he had placed relevant physical evidence in Blassies casket. From John Marsh, deLeon learned of the political pressures that mounted within the Reagan administration as Unknown candidates fell by the wayside, leaving six tiny bone fragments to stand for all who fought and died in Vietnam.

I felt that, indeed, all of the data we had on X-26 told us those were the remains at Arlington, deLeon said. Then the next question was whether the DNA testing could be conclusive. We were satisfied it could be. So on April 23, 1998, deLeon recommended the tomb be opened. By taking action to resolve this controversy, he wrote, we can preserve the integrity of the Tomb and fulfill our responsibility to the families.

A few weeks later, on May 14, 1998, the Unknown of the Vietnam War was exhumed. William Cohen presided at the Arlington ceremonies, saying the disinterment was undertaken with profound reluctance but for good cause. If advances in technology can ease the lingering anguish of even one family, then our path is clear. We yield to the promise of science, with the hope that the heavy burden of doubt may be lifted from a familys heart.

By this time, Pat Blassie had no doubts. I knew it was Michael before they opened the tomb. I knew the DNA would prove it. It was the only conclusion you could reach based on the evidence. By June 28, 1998, DNA tests confirmed a match. Michael Blassie was flown home to St. Louis for a military burial with full honors at the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. This time, his name was inscribed on his tombstone.

Originally published in the January 2010 issue of Military History. To subscribe, click here.Carlo Pacini, age 89, and a resident of Half Moon Bay, went home to be with our Lord on Dec.Labour Party Leader Brendan Howlin TD has described Sunday's interview by the Taoiseach with RTE's 'This Week' on Brexit as "blase" and "disappointing".

Deputy Howlin said: The Taoiseach has been reduced to seeking clarity on matters he has already declared clear.

Having been told we had secured a cast iron guarantee, the Taoiseachs own words in December, he is now telling us he is still looking for clarity from the British.

"These two positions are incompatible. The reality is that despite substantial support for UK membership of the single market and the customs union within the UK Parliament, Mrs May continues to be led by a group of hard Brexiteers that is insistent on the UK leaving the single market and customs union.

"It is difficult to know what other clarification the Taoiseach wants. He knows, as everybody knows that if the UK as a whole leaves the single market and the customs union that the disruptive implications for Northern Ireland are considerable."

He added:"Rather than indicating to the British as the Government has recently being doing, that we will continue to work closely with them post Brexit it is time we spelt out clearly that any breach of the December understanding will represent the most fundamental difficulty in Anglo-Irish relations for forty years.

"It is increasingly becoming clear that this British Government is incapable and unwilling to honour its commitment.

"We would do better proffering support to those In Britain who understand their commitments under the Good Friday Agreement and are working to ensure Britain honours them.Its always exciting to hear of a new act making waves in Ireland, regardless of genre. Younger bands in the heavier genres are one in a million in recent years, with more bands tending to generate towards radio friendly alternative rock and indie genres. In comes God Alone, a self proclaimed post-metal five piece from Cork. Their most senior members are currently sitting their Leaving Cert mocks, while the rest of the band are in fifth and transition year respectively - all with aspirations of studying music after graduation.

The band formed in October 2016, when members Jake ODriscoll, Jack OHanlon, Cian Mullane, Sean Thompson and Dylan Kelly were aged 15-16 years old. Inspired by fellow Corkonians Altar of Plagues and Canadian experimental group Godspeed You! Black Emperor, God Alone bring a free flowing energy to their music, each song a crescendo of progressive styling dipped in Black Metal. God Alone insist that their influences are wide and varied and that their new material is influenced by a wider array of genres, as well as their native Cork City.

We also take great influence from our area, most of the band lives in the north side of Cork City which can be considered an underprivileged area and we're very influenced by our surroundings, neighbors and culture. We're just ordinary young fellas from Cork making tunes that we love and surprisingly people seem to like it.The Irish Government will be travelling from Dublin to Sligo on 16 February to hold a unique cabinet meeting at IT Sligo before officially launching the Ireland 2040 National Planning Framework and the State's ten year capital investment plan.

Fine Gael T.D. for Sligo-Leitrim area and Assistant Fine Gael Party Whip, Tony McLoughlin confirmed this morning .

McLoughlin stated: It is anticipated by many that the Government have chosen Sligo as the desti-nation for the official launch of these two exciting plans as it will feature somewhat in the contents of both announcements, although this remains to be confirmed by Government.

In December, I invited The Taoiseach to visit Sligo to view just why it needs to be included in the final version of the plan.

"I have worked tirelessly behind the scenes since the draft version of the plan was released. Sligo and the entire North West Region were completely overlooked in my opinion.

It was unacceptable and I raised my frustrations and anger about it consistently at Fine Gael Par-liamentary Party meetings, with the relevant Ministers in the Dail, in a submission to the Depart-ment and directly with the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar on a number of occasions.

Following on from this I met the Taoiseach on Saturday in Dublin for political meetings followed by a visit to the Aviva to watch the Irish Rugby game. I have no hesitation in stating that Sligo and the North West was top of the agenda.

It was here where confirmed to me that the Cabinet will be visiting Sligo next week for the launch.

I am firmly of the opinion that the Taoiseach wants what I want in terms of balanced regional de-velopment and a better future for the North West region and I am confident that as Taoiseach he will deliver the policies needed to ensure this happens.

He concluded: Sligo and the North West of Ireland were forgotten about by successive Fianna Fail Governments when this country was awash with money. I am confident Sligo and the North West will not be for-gotten on this occasion."Kerry-based Ronan Kealy, aka Junior Brother, takes the stage with just a guitar, his foot tambourine and a stool  a set-up hes utilised since the release of his first EP, 2016s Fuck Off I Love You. Moving to Dublin from Kerry last year to go at the music full-force, Kealys Junior Brother project draws on the natural inspiration of his home county  fields, ditches and jagged trees.

The landscape feels very untouched, he explains. It transports you back to a time when those things were still around everywhere. I try to have that sense in my music as well.

Looking at the music video for Hungover At Mass  a fish-eyed lens spectacle of uncomfortable close-ups on Kealy, as he moves through the surrounding countryside after a night of drinking  this line of thought is evident. He focuses on the natural as much as possible. Id like to keep that going, he notes. Theres raw beauty  but its weird. With his foot tambourine duct-taped to the floor and the joke that its becoming a seventh-string for the guitar, Kealy is clear that it comes naturally for him to do his own thing. Theres humour and wit in his lyrics. You can just enjoy the music for the humour, he suggests. Its there if you want to find it.Ireland and the world couldnt get enough of Corks two young offenders, Jock and Conor, when they went off to find adventure and cocaine on the Wild Atlantic Way back in 2016. So it was a treat to hear that the duo had found themselves a home on the small screen with RTE. With less cocaine and more girls, bikes and fantastic one-liners, its fair to say were in for a treat.

A quick chat with Chris Walley (Jock) and Alex Murphy (Conor) ahead of the episode airing showed a bit more behind the rat moustaches and stench of masculinity. Young lads love Conor and Jock, Murphy told Hot Press. On set, they prefer Jock - cos Jocks the cool one, hes the hard one. Conor shows his emotional side so they dont like me very much - which is a shame!

Despite the film being released in 2016, reassuming their roles was as easy as throwing on a jacket, Walley explains. Once you get the haircut and the moustache and put the tracksuit back on - you just cant help but feel that character again.As an existing print subscriber it is easy to get FREE access to all our online content.

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If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create.Songwriters Guild Endorses Music Modernization Act After Negotiated Changes

The Songwriters Guild Of America has changed it position and will endorse the Music Modernization Act, after changes were made to the bill currently before the US Congress. While some music attorneys and publishers are still urging caution, The SGA had been the only major music trade group opposing the legislation.

______________________

The Songwriters Guild of America has negotiated changes to the pending Music Modernization Act (HR 4706) that will enable it to support passage of the legislation. Among the agreed-upon amendments to the bill are:

the doubling of songwriter and composer representation on the board of directors of the Mechanical Licensing Collective established by the Act

the re-alignment of an Unclaimed Royalties Oversight Committee that will now have a 50/50 music creator and music publisher balance

clarifications to the payments sections that will make it easier for music creators to get the full benefits of their negotiated publishing agreements as applied to the distribution of what the bill refers to as unclaimed funds by music publishers.

As part of the discussions leading to changes, The SGA also recieved assurances from the US music publisher community that it will lend its full support to SGAs efforts to secure quick passage of the pending Copyright Alternative in Small-Claims Enforcement (CASE) Act of 2017 (HR 3945). CASE will provide music creators with an opt-in alternative to expensive, full blown copyright infringement actions against unlicensed users of their music.

Other benefits of the legislation, according to the SGA, include establishment of a system that:

is likely to substantially improve royalty payment compliance by digital distributors of music on a going-forward basis

changes in royalty rate determination formulas that will benefit both music creators and their copyright administrators

the promotion of greater fairness for US performing rights societies in their negotiations with users.

Among SGAs important roles following the bills enactment, said SGA president and multi-platinum songwriter Rick Carnes, will be to assist the songwriter and composer community in making sure that every music creator receives the full benefits intended under the Act. That includes publication of materials designed to inform and remind creators, in consultation with their legal and financial representatives, how best to ensure the maximum, accurate receipt of all royalties to which they are entitled.

More details here.

Share on:Pittsfield Man Charged With Murder

The shooting was right outside of Durant Park on the Fourth of July.

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  A city man has been charged in the fatal July 4 shooting of 39-year-old Paul E. Henry.

J.C. Chadwell, 39, of Seymour Street on Monday entered a plea of not guilty in Berkshire Superior Court on a single count of murder. Chadwell is accused of shooting Henry on John Street on July 4, 2017.

Police responded to a report of a shooting in the area of Durant Park around 11:30 on the night of July 4. Henry was pronounced dead by emergency medical technicians on the scene. An autopsy ruled the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the chest.

Judge Mark Pasquariello on Monday ordered Chadwell to be held at the Berkshire County House of Correction without the right to bail. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for March 14.

Chadwell was arrested on a warrant by police on Friday night. The shooting apparently was related to a dispute between the two men about several years' old debt.

The investigation was conducted by members of the Pittsfield Police Department Detective Bureau with assistance from the Berkshire County Sheriff's Department, State Police detectives assigned to the District Attorney's Office, members of the Berkshire Law Enforcement Task Force and the Massachusetts State Police Firearms Identification Section.Flooring, painting and other finish work is under way at the new Taconic. PreviousNext

Taconic High Construction: Focus on Interior Finishes

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  Nearly all of the mechanical and exterior work is complete and the focus at the new Taconic High School is transitioning to painting and finishing.

The $120.8 new school has been under construction for just short of two years and is on track to be completed this summer. Workers broke ground in March of 2016 and the building's target completion date is July 1. In July and August, the equipment will be moved into the new school and shortly after, the demolition of the current building will begin.

The project is being overseen by Gilbane Construction and Skanska USA and some 137 contractors were on site this week.

Upon entering the main entrance, a hallway to the left features the nurse's office and early childhood care classrooms and to the right are offices for guidance councilors, principal, and other staff.

The auditorium is enclosed, sitting right after a yet-to-be-installed welcome desk. The sloped floor for the auditorium seating is currently being graded after the overhead work has been completed. Outside its entrance, a grand staircase will soon be installed leading to the media center.

The auditorium is located on the westernmost side of the building, next to the gymnasium. In the gym, painting has been completed and the next step will be the installation of a partition and eventually the floor. The locker rooms are being painted right now (one locker room on the first floor and the other right above it on the third floor).

Across the hall from those spaces is the cafeteria. That has some of the equipment already installed. To the north, on the other side of the cafeteria, is the culinary arts kitchen and classroom. Between the two there will be a cafe for the students to serve the food they made in the program. Beyond culinary will be cosmetology.

On the second floor of the eastern side of the building, the arts, a computer lab, health and spaces for the medical program have all new lighting and flooring has been installed. Ceilings and floorings throughout is a focus right now.

Many of the floors throughout the upper levels of the building have been completed and are now covered for protection. Tiling, painting, and other wall finishes are also well under way and two of the three elevators are completed  with third being completed this week.

Painting is ongoing throughout the building and a large number of electricians are on site.

Gilbane has structured the work to start on the upper floors and move downward. The academic classrooms on the third floor, on the eastern portion of the building, are pretty close to being done. The second and first-floor classrooms are trailing slightly behind.

The academic classrooms are arranged in pod-like fashion. The classrooms in each pod are arranged in a half circle off of the main hallway and surround teacher's offices and a shared common area. The science labs are across the hall, with views of the mountains to the south.

The shops are on the first floor in the eastern portion of the building and shop classrooms are located across the hall.

Furniture has all been chosen and ordered.

iBerkshires has been following the construction since the beginning. Below is a slideshow from each visit. The slideshow is in chronological order since the start of construction.



Guest Column: Time to Enact Paid Family Leave

Twenty-five years ago, on Feb. 5, 1993, President Clinton signed into law the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which allows certain workers to take up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave to deal with a serious health condition, have a baby, bond with a newborn or adopted child, or take care of a seriously ill relative.

The FMLA was a major stride forward for the rights of workers and their families, but after a quarter decade the program's major gaps are clear. However, FMLA does not cover about 40 percent of the workforce, including workers at smaller companies and those who have recently changed jobs. And many workers who are eligible FMLA can't afford to take unpaid time off from work in an emergency. They're often left to choose between taking care of a child they love or keeping the job that puts food on the table.

Today, 25 years after the FMLA was signed, a grassroots coalition of community organizations, faith groups, and labor unions is advancing a pair of policies that would help fix these problems and strengthen our commonwealth's economy. This fall, the Raise Up Massachusetts coalition collected over 274,000 signatures from registered voters across the commonwealth to place two questions on the November 2018 ballot: paid family and medical leave and an increase in the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2022.

Over the next five months, the Legislature has the opportunity to pass these policies ourselves and avoid the need for an expensive ballot campaign. As co-chair of the House Progressive Caucus, my colleagues and I will be fighting for strong paid leave that covers all workers, and that doesn't hurt any single group or leave vulnerable families behind.

The bills I co-sponsor, H.2172 and S.1048 would make employees eligible for job-protected paid leave to recover from a serious illness or injury, to care for a seriously ill or injured family member, or to care for a new child. The bills prohibit employer retaliation against workers who take time off under these conditions.

Employees taking paid leave would receive partial wage replacement equal to a percentage of their average weekly wages, with a maximum weekly benefit of either $650 or $1,000. Paid leave would last up to either 12 or 16 weeks to care for a seriously ill or injured family member or to bond with a new child (family leave), and up to 26 weeks for an employee's own serious illness or injury (medical leave).

But won't this cost employers too much money? No. Benefits would be funded through small employer premium contributions to the new Family and Employment Security Trust Fund or to private insurance plans. It would allow employers to require employees to contribute up to 50 percent of the cost of premiums. It would phase in over a few years, create a waiting period before employees can receive benefits, use existing agencies for administration and enforcement, and allow companies to keep existing plans, all of which reduce costs. Employers tell us they are looking for a straightforward plan with low administrative costs and offers a level playing field. This bill meets those needs.

When it comes to paid family and medical leave, the example of the FMLA shows how important it is that a paid leave program cover all workers. Family and medical emergencies can happen to people who work for small companies, those who just started new jobs, and independent contractors. This legislation program should make sure they are covered.

I am proud to work alongside my colleagues in the Legislature, advocates, and most importantly you, my constituents, to advance this important policy change that protects families and builds a stronger workforce.

State Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier represents the 3rd Berkshire District.Tanglewood hosted a ceremonial topping off event at the construction site of the festival's new four-building complex on Monday, Feb. 12.

Berkshires Beat: Final Steel Beam Placed on New Tanglewood Complex

Moving along

Tanglewood hosted a ceremonial topping off event at the construction site of the festival's new four-building complex on Monday, Feb. 12, celebrating the placement of the final steel beam on top of the building site. The new building complex will support the performances and rehearsal activities of the Tanglewood Music Center  the BSO's prestigious summer music academy  and serve as the home of the new Tanglewood Learning Institute. The beamwhich was placed on top of the covered walkway connecting each buildingwas painted white and signed by the construction team, who were feted at the event in celebration of this project milestone.



Since construction began on the Tanglewood building project in September 2017, Consigli Construction Co., the general contractor on the project, has erected 275 tons of steel (with the average temperature during steel work 25 degrees Fahrenheit), completing the basic structure for the four buildings, including Studio 1, a multi-use performance and lecture space; Studios 2 and 3, two smaller rehearsal and performances spaces; and a 150-seat dining cafe, designed to be an informal place for audience members and musicians to interact. The construction of this project began in September 2017 and since then the team of workers on the project have put in 23,921 hours of work, with the peak manpower level hitting 50 people through five months of the project thus far. The construction team is on schedule for substantial completion of the project in 10 months. In addition, 72 percent of the subcontracts for the project have been awarded to local western Massachusetts firms, with 16 percent based in Berkshire County.



In addition to the team of construction workers honored today, BSO Managing Director Mark Volpe, BSO Chairman of the Board Susan Paine, BSO Trustee and chair of the TMC/TLI Initiative Committee Joyce Linde, and representatives from William Rawn Associates, Architects and Consigli attended the event.



Scheduled to open in summer 2019, the new four-building complex is being designed by William Rawn Associates, Architects, led by William Rawn and Cliff Gayley, and is the largest building project at Tanglewood since the construction of Ozawa Hall (1994), also designed by William Rawn Associates. Reed Hilderbrand is serving as the projects landscape architects. Consigli is the general contractor building the new complex, and Skanska is the Owner's Project Manager. Kirkegaard Associates, led by Joseph Myers, are serving as the project's acousticians. Kirkegaard Associates were also the acousticians for Ozawa Hall.

Girl power

Area Girl Scout troops are up and running and have availability for more girls. Adams Daisy Troop 64871 is welcoming girls in kindergarten and first grade. Great Barrington Daisy Troop 64834 is welcoming girls in kindergarten and first grade. The troop meets weekly on Wednesdays at 5:45-6:45 pm.



In addition, Hinsdale Junior Troop 12957 is welcoming girls in grade 5. The troop meets monthly on Mondays from 5:45 to 7:15 pm. And Williamstown Girl Scout troops are welcoming girls in grade two, three, five and six. Meeting times vary.



Joining Girl Scouts is a great way to help girls build confidence, try new things, and discover their inner G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-Taker, Leader). Previous Girl Scout experience is not necessary. For information on Girl Scouts and how to join, go online.

Getting better

Fallon Health, a mission-focused, community-based not-for-profit health care services organization, announced today its continued commitment to addressing health care barriers in underserved communities by distributing grants to organizations throughout Massachusetts.



Of the 10 organizations that received Community Benefits Grants totaling $100,000 in 2017, one was in Berkshire County: Berkshire Health Systems' Operation Better Start (Boys & Girls Club of Pittsfield) received a $10,000 grant for its Berkshire Healthy Students program to increase knowledge of healthy eating, physical activity and parent/community engagement.



Through its Community Benefits Grants program, the company has distributed more than $1.3 million in the last 11 years to local organizations with initiatives that address health care barriers. Since Fallon launched the program, the number of grant requests has increased more than 400 percent.

Monopoly for a cause

The seventh annual Raymond James Monopoly Tournament will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 1, at Berkshire Hills Country Club, located at 500 Benedict Road in Pittsfield. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit Berkshire County Kids Place, a children's advocacy center providing services to children of Berkshire County who have experienced trauma related to abuse. Kids Place serves more than 400 children each year.



Making it official

Great Barrington town officials have begun a process that they hope will result in the town's downtown earning an official designation as a cultural district from the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Since 2011, the Massachusetts Cultural Council has formally recognized towns and cities that have thriving arts, humanities and science institutions, allowing those organizations enhance their visitors' experiences while positioning communities to better capitalize on these distinct resources.



This initiative is in line with Great Barrington's economic development priorities, which place a strong emphasis on strengthening and marketing the diverse set of cultural destinations in the heart of town. As a first step, representatives from downtown cultural establishments and businesses are invited to a public information session at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at Saint James Place, 352 Main St.



The meeting will provide stakeholders with information about what the cultural district distinction would mean for the town, and how it would benefit businesses, residents and visitors alike. Downtown Great Barrington boasts a vibrant landscape, anchored by mainstays like Saint James Place, the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center and the Triplex Cinema.



There are currently three communities in Berkshire County with a cultural district designation: Pittsfield's Upstreet Cultural District, Williamstown and North Adams.

For the dogs

The 2018 dog licenses are available in the Williamstown town clerk's office. The office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The current fees are $5 for neutered and spayed dogs and $12 for all others. It is a requirement that all dog owners must provide proof of current rabies vaccination in order to obtain their dog license. Such proof must be in the form of a slip from a veterinarian, rabies tag or from last year's license.



Residents may renew their dog licenses by mail if they send in a current rabies certificate, a check for the correct amount and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Anyone who does not renew their dog license before June 15 will be subjected to a $10 late fee charge. Residents who have questions regarding dog licenses should call the town clerk's office at 413-458-9341.

Well, great

The city of Pittsfield was recognized by the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association for its wellness initiatives at the organization's annual business meeting and award ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 20, in Boston. The meeting was a part of the 39th annual Massachusetts Municipal Association Trade Show and Conference, which was held Jan. 19-20.



The city received the "Best Wellness Program for a Newcomer" award for its commitment to the health and well-being of city employees. Personnel Director Michael Taylor and Finance Director Matthew Kerwood, who accepted the award at the meeting, have been instrumental in the development of the citys wellness efforts. The citys program also is featured in MIIA's 2017 annual report.



Initiatives include the establishment of the Wellness Center located in the lower level of City Hall and the creation of a wellness committee of employees from every city department. The committee, with assistance from the city's health insurance partners MIIA and Blue Cross & Blue Shield, have implemented several wellness programs and activities over the past year. These include a FitBit Step Challenge, fitness boot camps, a workshop titled "Mindfulness in the Workplace" healthy cooking demonstrations, Weight Watchers at Work, as well as several self-guided programs around weight loss and stress management.Israeli Air Force Strikes Iranian Targets in Syria

The Fellowship | February 12, 2018

After an Iranian drone launched from Syria violated Israeli air space this weekend, Israels Air Force dispatched a helicopter to destroy the drone, and struck 12 Iranian military targets within Syria. Watch this video from the IDF and read more about Israels response to this serious escalation of hostilities by Iran.Understanding that he would probably be referred to as "Haneke, the male chauvinist pig" because of it, director Michael Haneke has nonetheless criticised the #MeToo movement and the culture of "blind rage" on the internet.

In an interview with Kurier, the Austrian filmmaker said (via Deadline) there is no question that "any form of rape or coercion is punishable But this hysterical pre-judgment which is spreading now, I find absolutely disgusting. And I dont want to know how many of these accusations related to incidents 20 or 30 years ago are primarily statements that have little to do with sexual assault."

The director of films like Funny Games, Amour and Happy End sees in the recent narrative in Hollywood "blind rage thats not based on facts and the prejudices that destroy the lives of people whose crime has not been proved in numerous cases. People are simply assassinated in the media, ruining lives and careers."

Asked whether this purging would have a positive effect on the industry and society, Haneke suggested that the vitriol involved has left people too terrified to engage in meaningful debate.

Any shitstorm that even comes out on the forums of serious online news outlets after such revelations poisons the social climate. And this makes every argument on this very important subject even more difficult. The malignancy that hits you on the internet often stifles you.

"This new puritanism imbued with a hatred of men that comes in the wake of the #MeToo movement worries me.

The filmmaker believes film itself has been affected too, noting that "one of the deepest and most profound [films] on the subject of sexuality," Nagisa Oshimas film In The Realm Of The Senses, would not get made today "because the funding institutions would not allow this, anticipating obedience to this terror. Suspected actors are cut out of movies and TV series in order not to lose (audiences). Where are we living? In the new Middle Ages?"

Last week, it was revealed that Haneke is working on his first TV series, a 10-part dystopian drama called Kelvin's Book.Robert De Niros feud with Donald Trump continues, the Hollywood actor once again mocking the President of the United States and the governing administration.

Speaking at Dubais World Government Summit, De Niro told a packed audience he was visiting from a backward country suffering from temporary insanity.

The actor said that, in the country he was describing, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency had recently suggested global warming may be a good thing for humanity.

I am talking about my own country, the United States of America, he said, according to AP. We dont like to say we are a backward country so lets just say were suffering from a case of temporary insanity.

De Niro added that the country will eventually cure itself by voting our dangerous leader to applause and laughs from the audience.

Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Show all 29 1 /29 Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inauguration - 20 January 2017 US President Donald Trump acknowledges the audience after taking the oath of office as his wife Melania (L) and daughter Tiffany watch during inauguration ceremonies swearing in Trump as the 45th president of the United States on the West Front of the US capital in Washington on 20 January, 2017. Photographer Jim Bourg: "This photo was shot with one of two remote cameras. The cameras were monitored and triggered remotely and the pictures were transmitted to clients worldwide within minutes of being taken." Reuters/Jim Bourg Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Obama farewell address - 10 January 2017 US President Barack Obama wipes away tears as he delivers his farewell address in Chicago on 10 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "In his final days in office, Obama made a visit home to Chicago. As he spoke from the stage to his wife and daughter in the audience, he became emotional when he talked about what they had sacrificed during his time in office. I turned from photographing the Obama women embracing to find him onstage wiping away tears." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inauguration - 20 January 2017 A combination of photos shows the crowds attending the inauguration ceremonies to swear in U.S. President Donald Trump at 12:01pm (left) on January 20, 2017 and President Barack Obama sometime between 12:07pm and 12:26pm on January 20, 2009. Reuters/ Lucas Jackson/Stelios Varias Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Liberty Ball - 20 January 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump attend the Liberty Ball in honour of his inauguration in Washington on 20 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "What I see when I look at this picture is the end of a very long day, not to mention weeks and months of preparation by many photographers, editors and network experts and the beginning of everything since." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception - 22 January 2017 US President Donald Trump greets Director of the FBI James Comey as Director of the Secret Service Joseph Clancy (L), watches during the Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception in the Blue Room of the White House on 22 January, 2017. Photographer Joshua Roberts: "I have covered the White House for 16 years and normally either the President or the pool is in position when an event starts. In this case the President was not where anyone expected him to be. In fact, he was almost blocking the door when the pool came in. We had to scramble to find a position without bumping him or the furniture as he greeted and thanked members of law enforcement for their security efforts during the inauguration. Luckily, he greeted FBI Director James Comey a few seconds after the pool had made its way into the room." Reuters/Joshua Roberts Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Private phone calls to world leaders - 28 January 2017 US President Donald Trump, is joined by his staff, as he speaks by phone with Russia's President Vladimir Putin in the Oval Office on 28 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Very early in the Trump administration, weekends were as busy as weekdays. On Trump's second Saturday the official schedule said he would be making private phone calls to a number of world leaders including Russia's Vladimir Putin. I arrived early and, before sitting down at my desk walked up to Press Secretary Sean Spicer's office. He, too, was just taking his coat off. I gingerly made the suggestion that previous administrations had sometimes allowed photos of such phone calls through the Oval Office windows on the colonnade. To my mild shock, he didn't even think about it twice. "We'll do it!" he said. In truth, I really only expected the Putin call, but we were outside the windows multiple times throughout the day as the calls went on." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Senior advisor Kellyanne Conway - 27 February 2017 Senior advisor Kellyanne Conway (L) attends as US President Donald Trump welcomes the leaders of dozens of historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) in the Oval Office on 27 February, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "We're often asked how much access we have to the Trump administration, and the answer is we have an awful lot. President Trump himself is very comfortable in the spotlight, and his aides are similarly unfazed by cameras. In this instance, senior advisor Kellyanne Conway was so comfortable in our presence she seemed not to consider the optics of kneeling on a Oval Office sofa to take pictures with her phone." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Angela Merkel heads to Washington - 17 March 2017 Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel and US President Donald Trump hold a joint news conference in the East Room of the White House on 17 March, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Chancellor Merkel made one of the earliest important visits of any US allies to meet Trump in his first months in office. When world leaders give joint news conferences they don't always tend to give each other their full attention - but Merkel watched Trump intently at several key moments, and here seemed particularly rapt." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump welcomes truckers to the White House - 23 March 2017 President Trump reacts as he sits on a truck while he welcomes truckers and CEOs to attend a meeting regarding healthcare at the White House on 23 March, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "The White House organised a listening session with truckers and CEO's of major American companies, regarding healthcare reform. An 18-wheeler tow truck was parked on the South Lawn of the White House and as Trump welcomed the truckers someone invited the him to come and sit in the driver's seat. Trump jumped into the cab and started yelling and pretending to drive - creating one of the most memorable pictures of the year. A lesson learned, always be prepared for the unexpected." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Air Force One - 6 April 2017 US President Donald Trump talks to journalists members of the travel pool on board the Air Force One during his trip to Palm Beach, Florida on 6 April, 2017. Carlos Barria: "During the many trips to President Trump's residence in Florida it is usual to see the president coming to the back of the plane to chat with journalists. During one of the trips to the so called 'Winter White House', Trump had a long talk with reporters while the Air Force One entertainment system was playing one of the latest Star Wars movies. As I was listening to Trump talk I was also looking at the movie waiting for a part of the movie to frame the mood of the day. Of the many scenes, I choose the one with Darth Vader." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures 100 Days - 27 April 2017 US President Donald Trump speaks during an interview with Reuters in the Oval Office of the White House on 27 April, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "A day before President Trump's hundred days in office I was part of the team that interviewed the commander-in-chief in the Oval Office. I was only allowed to photograph Trump during the last five minutes of the interview. The time was very tight so I had to move fast as I had pictures in mind that I wanted to shoot. I walked into the Oval Office and saw that the President had printed maps of the country showing areas in red where he won. I raised my hands holding my camera as high as possible to get the best view of the scene using a 16mm wide angle lens." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures 100 Days - 27 April 2017 US President Donald Trump reacts as he arrives at Harrisburg international airport, before attending a rally marking his first 100 days in office in Pennsylvania on 29 April, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "President Trump travelled to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to celebrate his hundred days in office with a victory rally. He was in friendly territory as he won with a big difference over his opponent Hillary Clinton in Pennsylvania, during the November elections. As usual when the commander-in-chief arrives local residents gather to greet him. This time a small group of military personnel attended the arrival. Surrounded by secret service agents Trump walked from the Air Force One and raised his hand in a sign of victory as the crowd cheered him on." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House staffers - 2 May 2017 White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer (L) and White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus watch as US President Donald Trump presents the U.S. Air Force Academy football team with the Commander-in-Chief trophy in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington on 2 May, 2017. Photographer Joshua Roberts: "Covering the White House does not just mean covering the President. White House staffers are an important part of the story and their relationship with the President and each other is an indicator of how things are going in the West Wing. The tendency is to focus exclusively on the President once an event starts but I always try to look around to see how people are reacting as things unfold." Reuters/Joshua Roberts Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Secret Service - 4 May 2017 Secret Service agents use a presidential limousine as cover from spraying water as US President Donald Trump lands via Marine One helicopter in New York on 4 May, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "The best part of any trip to New York City with the sitting US President is the helicopter ride into Manhattan. The ride out at night can be stunning. Here, Secret Service agents protect themselves from the spray from the East River as Trump lands on the helipad." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures NATO Summit - 25 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump wait the arrival of French President Emmanuel Macron (unseen) before a lunch ahead of a NATO Summit in Brussels on 25 May, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "One of the best parts of travelling overseas for White House coverage is the chance to see the U.S. president in different environments and (literally) a different light. Here, Trump and his wife came out of the shadows to greet France's President Macron." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump meets Putin at G20 summit - 7 July 2017 US President Donald Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany on 7 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "On July 7, I witnessed one of the most important meetings of President Trump's first year in office. Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin during a bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Germany. The world's eyes were on these two leaders after speculation about Russian interference during the 2016 US elections. We entered the room for less than two minutes, where I took dozens of pictures. But there was this very interesting moment when Trump extended his hand to Putin for a handshake. Putin paused for a second and looked at Trump's hand. That was the picture that I was looking for, a little moment that seemed to say a lot." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures First lady - 8 July 2017 First lady Melania Trump chats with US President Donald Trump during their return from Germany at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on 8 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "After President Trump's trip to Germany he arrived back at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. First Lady Melania Trump said goodbye to Trump as she was heading off in a different direction that day. While chatting a breeze blew Melania's hair up in the air." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Made in America product showcase - 17 July 2017 Vice President Mike Pence laughs as President Donald Trump holds a baseball bat as they attend a Made in America product showcase event at the White House on 17 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "This summer the White House organized an event to showcase 'Made in America' products. All kinds of exhibitors brought their products as the President and Vice President toured the event. One of the companies was Marucci Sport, a manufacturer of baseball bats based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As Trump approached a table full of baseball bats, photographers at the event, including me, rushed to get a good angle hoping that he would pick up a bat. As we predicted, he did. He took one and joked around as though he was hitting something hard. The only thing closer to him right there, was the media." Reuters Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House staffers - 25 July 2017 Former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski says hello to reporters as he and White House advisors including Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci accompany President Trump for an event celebrating veterans at AMVETS Post 44 in Ohio, July 25, 2017. Jonathan Ernst: "The most visible person in any White House is naturally the President, followed by the press secretary. But there are also the staff who support them. For those of us covering the Trump administration, there seem to be more compelling figures in the West Wing than ever before. It's crucial to know who's who and why they're important. When I raised my camera and back-pedalled ahead of the group to take this image Lewandowski gave me a hello. I liked the photo, but had no idea it would go a little bit viral, especially since Scaramucci, who was the biggest mover and shaker that week, was hidden back in the pack. But I guess the image catches a glimpse of what it's like to be a West Wing staffer on the road." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Campaign rally - 3 August 2017 US President Donald Trump arrives at a rally in West Virginia on 3 August, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "President Trump travelled to Huntington for one of his usual campaign rallies. While members of his family spoke to the crowd he was waiting under a black curtain to be introduced. Suddenly he walked onto the stage, one of the first frames that I took was of his hand. I set my exposure for the light on the stage hoping to create this dark background and it worked." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Staring into the solar eclipse - 21 August 2017 Without his protective glasses on, US President Donald Trump looks up towards the solar eclipse while viewing with his wife Melania and son Barron at the White House on 21 August, 2017. Photographer Kevin Lamarque: "On a day when everyone, and I mean everyone, was told not to look at the eclipse without protective glasses, Trump, President of the United States, couldn't help himself." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Hurricane Harvey - 2 September 2017 US President Donald Trump poses for a photo as he and first lady Melania Trump help volunteers hand out meals during a visit with flood survivors of Hurricane Harvey at a relief centre in Houston, Texas on 2 September, 2017. Photohrapher Kevin Lamarque: "Trump, eager to deliver the image of a hands-on response to Hurricane Harvey, made this visit to a relief centre and obliged this woman with a selfie as Melania continued to work." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House - 15 September 2017 Donald Trump welcomes 11-year-old Frank Giaccio as he cuts the Rose Garden grass at the White House on 15 September. Frank, who wrote a letter to Trump offering to mow the lawn, was invited to work for a day at the White House along the National Park Service staff. Frank was so focused on his task that he did not notice the President arrive to surprise him. He took his father jumping in to grab his attention and point Trump out. Photographer Carlos Barria said: The image of Trump shouting at a kid who is mowing his lawn might have many interpretations in today's politically polarized United States. But for me it was just a kid who loved what he was doing, to the point he almost appeared to ignore the President." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Take a knee - 27 September 2017 A man kneels with a folded U.S. flag as the motorcade of U.S. President Donald Trump passes him after an event at the state fairgrounds in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S., September 27, 2017. In September, soon after Trump had made comments condemning NFL players who kneel during the national anthem, he made a day trip to a rally in Indianapolis. Jonathan Ernst managed to capture a man on one knee with a tri-folded flag and was able to use a portion of the sign on the building he was kneeling in front of to track the man down and tell his story in full. US Army veteran Marvin Boatright wanted to send a message against social injustice. Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Hurricane Maria - 3 October 2017 President Donald Trump throws rolls of paper towels into a crowd of local residents affected by Hurricane Maria as he visits Calgary Chapel in San Juan, Puerto Rico on 3 October, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "During an afternoon visit to Puerto Rico for President Trump to survey damage from Hurricane Maria and greet some of its victims, Trump made a stop at a church where food and supplies were being distributed. Among the items were paper towels and Trump, apparently caught up in the moment, decided to distribute some of the rolls." Reuters Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Jared Kushner - 1 November 2017 White House Senior adviser Jared Kushner sits behind President Trump during a cabinet meeting in Washington on 1 November, 2017. Photographer Kevin Lamarque: "The role of Jared Kushner has gone through a series of changes. He began front and centre as a high profile adviser, but as time has passed and issues surrounding him have surfaced, he has become more of a background figure." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump in China - 9 November 2017 Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping shake hands after making joint statements at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on 9 November, 2017. Photographer Damir Sagolj: "It's one of those "how to make a better or at least different shot when two presidents shake hands several times a day, several days in row". If I'm not mistaken in calculation, presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump shook their hands at least six times in events I covered during Trump's recent visit to China. I would imagine there were some more handshakes I haven't seen but other photographers did. And they all look similar - two big men, smiling and heartily greeting each other until everyone gets their shot. But then there is always something that can make it special - in this case the background made of US and Chinese flags. The first time it didn't work for me. The second time I positioned myself lower and centrally, and used the longest lens I have to capture only hands reaching for a handshake." Reuters/Damir Sagolj Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Air Force One - 10 November 2017 US President Donald Trump boards Air Force One to depart for Vietnam from Beijing Airport in Beijing, China, November 10, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "There is a Reuters photographer in the tight pool covering the US president for every appearance he makes 365 days a year. This was just one of 32 images of mine that were transmitted on the Reuters wire of President Trump visiting China and Vietnam that day. You never know when a sudden interaction, a gust of wind or a unique facial expression will lead to a striking image that grabs peoples' attention." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures ASEAN handshake - 13 November 2017 Donald Trump registers his surprise as he realises other leaders, including Russia's Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte and Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, are crossing their arms for the traditional "ASEAN handshake" as he participates in the opening ceremony of the summit in Manila on 13 November, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Having covered a few ASEAN summits, I knew to expect the ASEAN handshake. Not everyone in the room knew to expect the ASEAN handshake. A lot was written about this unscripted moment, and what deeper meaning it might have. The simple truth is that sometimes in life there are unscripted moments." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst

The Oscar-winner has previously criticised Trump on numerous occasions, both before and after becoming President. Most recently, De Niro criticised Trump at the National Board of Review Annual Awards Gala, calling him a f**ing fool and the jerkoff-in-chief.

During the campaign trail - for which he endorsed Hillary Clinton - De Niro claimed he'd like to ...punch [Trump] in the face.

The actor is currently filming new Martin Scorsese film The Irishman alongside Al Pacino and his Goodfellas and Casino co-star Joe Pesci.Karen Vardanyan has allocated 105 million AMD to rescue the Yerevan Botanical Garden.

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PACE rapporteur welcomes Azerbaijans release of Armenian captives and Armenias handing over of mine-maps to AzerbaijanHollywood star Tom Cruise braved chilly winds to film scenes from his latest blockbuster - on top of the Tate Modern.

The 55-year-old heartthrob is currently in London filming the sixth instalment of the Mission Impossible series.

Cruise, who was injured last year in a stunt, showed no fear when he stood on top of the edge of the 300 foot tower at the art gallery, in South Bank, central London.

His escapades were watched by a crowd of hundreds as he spent around 30 minutes filming the scene.

There were two helicopters flying close to the star - who appeared to show no fear as he stood on the edge of the sheer drop.

One bystander, who asked not to be named, said: It was crazy - he was up there for ages.

He was wearing a big coat, but it was so cold and windy.

It just goes to show, I suppose, that he really does his own stunts.

Eagle-eyed observers noticed that Tom was safer than it might seem - because he was attached to a safety harness.

The bystander added: I don't care he was wearing a harness - he's still really brave.

27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Show all 27 1 /27 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Black Panther Released: 12 February 12 February Director: Ryan Coogler Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o, Forest Whitaker, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 The Greatest Showman Released: 1 January 1 January Director: Michael Gracey Cast: Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Michelle Williams, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya, 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Darkest Hour Released: 12 January 12 January Director: Joe Wright Cast: Gary Oldman, Kristin Scott Thomas, Ben Mendelsohn 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri Released: 12 January Director: Martin McDonagh 12 JanuaryMartin McDonagh Cast: Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, Sam Rockwell, Caleb Landry Jones > Twentieth Century Fox 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Coco Released: 19 January 19 January Director: Lee Unkrich ,p>Cast: Anthony Gonzalez, Gael Garcia Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Renee Victor 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Downsizing Released: 19 January 19 January Director: Alexander Payne Cast: Matt Damon, Christopher Waltz, Jong Chau, Kristen Wiig, Jason Sudeikis 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Early Man Released: 26 January 26 January Director: Nick Park Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Tom Hiddleston, Maisie Williams, Timothy Spall 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Fifty Shades Freed Released: 9 February 9 February Director: James Foley Cast: Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Kim Basinger 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Maze Runner: The Death Cure Released: 9 February 9 February Director: Wes Ball Cast: Dylan O'Brien, Thomas Brodie Sangster, Kaya Scodelario, Giancarlo Esposito, Aidan Gillen 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 The Shape of Water Released: 16 February 16 February Director: Guillermo del Toro Cast: Sally Hawkins, Octavia Spencer, Michael Shannon, Michael Stuhlbarg, Doug Jones 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Annihilation Released: 23 February 23 February Director: Alex Garland Cast: Natalie Portman, Jennifer Jason Lee, Gina Rodriguez, Tessa Thompson, Oscar Isaac 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Dark River Released: 23 February 23 February Director: Clio Barnard Cast: Ruth Wilson, Mark Stanley, Sean Bean 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Red Sparrow Released: 2 March 2 March Director: Francis Lawrence Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Joel Edgerton, Jeremy Irons 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Tomb Raider Released: 16 March 16 March Director: Roar Uthaug Cast: Alicia Vikander, Walton Goggins, Daniel Wu, Dominic West, 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 A Wrinkle in Time Released: 23 March 23 March Director: Ava DuVernay Cast: Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Mindy Kaling, Zach Galifianakis 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Pacific Rim: Uprising Released: 23 March 23 March Director: Steven S. DeKnight Cast: John Boyega, Scott Eastwood, Charlie Day, Burn Gorman 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Roman J Israel, Esq Released: 23 March 23 March Director: Dan Gilroy Cast: Denzel Washington, Colin Farrell, Carmen Ejogo Columbia Pictures 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Isle of Dogs Released: 30 March 30 March Director: Wes Anderson Cast: Bill Murray, Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Tilda Swinton, Scarlett Johansson 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Ready Player One Released: 30 March 30 March Director: Steven Spielberg Cast: Tye Sheridan, Olivia Cooke, Ben Mendelsohn, Mark Rylance, Simon Pegg 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Avengers: Infinity War Released: 27 April 27 April Director: The Russo Brothers Cast: Robert Downey, Jr, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Josh Brolin 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Untitled Han Solo Film Released: 25 May 25 May Director: Ron Howard Cast: Alden Ehrenreich, Emilia Clarke, Woody Harrelson, Donald Glover 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom Released: 8 June 8 June Director: J.A. Bayona Cast: Bryce Dallas Howard, Chris Pine, B.D. Wong, Toby Jones 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Deadpool 2 Released: 1 June Director: David Leitch 1 JuneDavid Leitch Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, T.J. Miller, Zazie Beetz, Josh Brolin 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Ocean's 8 Released: 22 June 22 June Director: Gary Ross Cast: Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Anne Hathaway, Olivia Munn, Helena Bonham Carter, Rihanna, Matt Damon 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Ant-Man and the Wasp Released: 29 June 29 June Director: Peyton Reed Cast: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas, Michelle Pfeiffer 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 Soldado Released: 29 June 29 June Director: Stefano Sollima Cast: Benicio del Toro, Josh Brolin, Jeffrey Donovan, Catherine Keener, Matthew Modine 27 films to look out for in the first half of 2018 The Incredibles 2 Released: 13 July 13 July Director: Brad Bird Cast: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Sarah Vowell, Samuel L. Jackson

The helicopters were zipping around - if they weren't filming a movie, I would have thought there was something wrong, but that's just filmmaking, I suppose.

I do hope that this isn't the final Mission Impossible film though - since Tom Cruise's character always triumphs, it just goes to show that nothing is, in fact, impossible.

SWNSKendrick Lamar and SZA's video for "All the Stars" has been accused of stealing art by a British-Liberian artist without her permission, it has been reported.

The song from the Black Panther soundtrack, which was produced and curated by Lamar and Top Dawg's Anthony Tiffith, saw an accompanying video released last week.

According to the New York Times, Lina Iris Viktor said representatives from Marvel reached out to her in November 2016, and again in December 2017, about using her artwork in the film, but she ultimately declined their offers.

However, similar images and themes to her series Constellations are seen in the video for Lamar's music video around the 2.59 mark.

A letter from Viktor's lawyer Christopher Robinson was sent to Tiffith over the weekend, alerting him to the copyright violation. Viktor told the New York Times: "It's an ethical issue, because what the whole film purports is that it's about black empowerment, African excellence - that's the whole concept of the story. And at the same time they're stealing from African artists."

She told the publication that she found out about the video from friends who called her to say they had seen her work in it. A story in Okay Africa about the video noted: "The work and influence of British-Liberian artist Lina Iris Viktor can be clearly spotted."

The letter detailing the alleged infringement says the video contains 19 seconds of footage which "incorporates not just the immediately-identifiable and unique look of her work, but also many of the specific copyrightable elements in the Constellations series of paintings, including stylised motifs of mythical animals, gilded geometric forms on a black background, and distinctively textured areas and patterns, arrayed in a grid-like arrangement of forms."

(Kendrick Lamar VEVO/screengrab (Kendrick Lamar VEVO/screengrab)

In an interview, Viktor said she cared about the principle more than compensation, explaining: "Cultural appropriation is something that continually happens to African-American artists, and I want to make a stand."

The Independent has reached out to representatives for Lamar and Meyers for comment.

Black Panther is set for release on 12 February in UK cinemas and is expected to be one of the biggest films of the year - with a record for first day ticket pre-sales for a superhero film already broken.

Read our review of the film here.

Follow Independent Culture on FacebookKim Cattrall responded rather differently to her former Sex and the City co-star Cynthia Nixon's well-wishes than Sarah Jessica Parker's.

Following the sudden death of Cattrall's brother, Parker posted on social media: "Dearest Kim, my love and condolences to you and yours and Godspeed to your beloved brother. Xx."

Cattrall rejected Parker's message, accusing her of "exploiting our tragedy in order to restore your 'nice girl' persona."

In contrast she wrote, in a rather different tone beneath her initial post thanking fans, friends and Sex and the City colleagues: "Cynthia, hearing your voice meant so much to me. Thank you for reaching out. Love Kim #SexandtheCity."

It appears that Nixon may have called Cattrall rather than posting on her social media, which is how Parker chose to express her thoughts.

Last year in an interview Cattrall had commented on how little she spoke with her co-stars, explaining: "Another thing that's really disappointing is that nobody ever picks up the phone and tries to contact you and say, 'how are you doing?' That would have been the way to handle it."

In an Instagram post responding to Parker's post sending her condolences Cattrall also linked to a New York Post article about the "Mean Girls culture" which reportedly destroyed the Sex and the City franchise.

The article detailed how Cattrall had been portrayed as a diva to fans waiting for the film adaptations of the popular TV series, when in fact she was allegedly shut out by her three main co-stars - in particular by Parker who was accused of being jealous of Cattrall's scene-stealing talent.

Follow Independent Culture on FacebookSeveral Government websites have been secretly forcing visitors computers to mine bitcoin alternative monero for cyber criminals.

One of the affected sites  that of the Information Commissioners Office  was temporarily taken down as a result.

The Student Loans Companys website was also affected, as were NHS websites, the Pensions Advisory Service, the Financial Ombudsman Service and many more.

Gadget and tech news: In pictures Show all 25 1 /25 Gadget and tech news: In pictures Gadget and tech news: In pictures Gun-toting humanoid robot sent into space Russia has launched a humanoid robot into space on a rocket bound for the International Space Station (ISS). The robot Fedor will spend 10 days aboard the ISS practising skills such as using tools to fix issues onboard. Russia's deputy prime minister Dmitry Rogozin has previously shared videos of Fedor handling and shooting guns at a firing range with deadly accuracy. Dmitry Rogozin/Twitter Gadget and tech news: In pictures Google turns 21 Google celebrates its 21st birthday on September 27. The The search engine was founded in September 1998 by two PhD students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, in their dormitories at Californias Stanford University. Page and Brin chose the name google as it recalled the mathematic term 'googol', meaning 10 raised to the power of 100 Google Gadget and tech news: In pictures Hexa drone lifts off Chief engineer of LIFT aircraft Balazs Kerulo demonstrates the company's "Hexa" personal drone craft in Lago Vista, Texas on June 3 2019 Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures Project Scarlett to succeed Xbox One Microsoft announced Project Scarlett, the successor to the Xbox One, at E3 2019. The company said that the new console will be 4 times as powerful as the Xbox One and is slated for a release date of Christmas 2020 Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures First new iPod in four years Apple has announced the new iPod Touch, the first new iPod in four years. The device will have the option of adding more storage, up to 256GB Apple Gadget and tech news: In pictures Folding phone may flop Samsung will cancel orders of its Galaxy Fold phone at the end of May if the phone is not then ready for sale. The $2000 folding phone has been found to break easily with review copies being recalled after backlash PA Gadget and tech news: In pictures Charging mat non-starter Apple has cancelled its AirPower wireless charging mat, which was slated as a way to charge numerous apple products at once AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures "Super league" India shoots down satellite India has claimed status as part of a "super league" of nations after shooting down a live satellite in a test of new missile technology EPA Gadget and tech news: In pictures 5G incoming 5G wireless internet is expected to launch in 2019, with the potential to reach speeds of 50mb/s Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Uber halts driverless testing after death Uber has halted testing of driverless vehicles after a woman was killed by one of their cars in Tempe, Arizona. March 19 2018 Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A humanoid robot gestures during a demo at a stall in the Indian Machine Tools Expo, IMTEX/Tooltech 2017 held in Bangalore Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A humanoid robot gestures during a demo at a stall in the Indian Machine Tools Expo, IMTEX/Tooltech 2017 held in Bangalore Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures The giant human-like robot bears a striking resemblance to the military robots starring in the movie 'Avatar' and is claimed as a world first by its creators from a South Korean robotic company Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Waseda University's saxophonist robot WAS-5, developed by professor Atsuo Takanishi Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures Waseda University's saxophonist robot WAS-5, developed by professor Atsuo Takanishi and Kaptain Rock playing one string light saber guitar perform jam session Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures A test line of a new energy suspension railway resembling the giant panda is seen in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A test line of a new energy suspension railway, resembling a giant panda, is seen in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A concept car by Trumpchi from GAC Group is shown at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures A Mirai fuel cell vehicle by Toyota is displayed at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A visitor tries a Nissan VR experience at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A man looks at an exhibit entitled 'Mimus' a giant industrial robot which has been reprogrammed to interact with humans during a photocall at the new Design Museum in South Kensington, London Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A new Israeli Da-Vinci unmanned aerial vehicle manufactured by Elbit Systems is displayed during the 4th International conference on Home Land Security and Cyber in the Israeli coastal city of Tel Aviv Getty

Security researcher Scott Helme traced the issue to Browsealoud, software that makes it easier for blind and partially sighted people to use the internet.

It was recently compromised by cyber criminals, who added a cryptojacking script to it.

As a result, everyone who visited a website that ran Browsealoud would secretly have their computers processing power used to earn money for cyber criminals, by mining monero.

Texthelp, the company behind Browsealoud, has taken the service down temporarily.

At 11:14 am GMT on Sunday 11th February 2018, a JavaScript file which is part of the Texthelp Browsealoud product was compromised during a cyber attack, it said.

The attacker added malicious code to the file to use the browser CPU in an attempt to illegally generate cryptocurrency. This was a criminal act and a thorough investigation is currently underway.

It says the exploit was active for a period of four hours on Sunday, and adds that no customer data was stolen or lost as a result of the hack.

Cryptojacking incidents, in which peoples devices are quietly hijacked and forced to mine digital currencies for other people, have become increasingly common since bitcoins spectacular price rise in 2017.

The trend is likely to continue, as successful attacks can help criminals earn a significant amount of money.

NCSC technical experts are examining data involving incidents of malware being used to illegally mine cryptocurrency, the National Cyber Security Centre said.

The affected service has been taken offline, largely mitigating the issue. Government websites continue to operate securely. At this stage there is nothing to suggest that members of the public are at risk.

Weve teamed up with cryptocurrency trading platform eToro. Click here to get the latest Bitcoin rates and start trading. Cryptocurrencies are a highly volatile unregulated investment product. No EU investor protection. 75% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs.A waitress has been fired after expressing her anger on Facebook over not receiving a tip on a takeout order for $735.

Tamlynn Yoder, 25, worked at the Outback steakhouse in Palm Beach County, Florida when the Christ Fellowship Church placed the huge order for takeaway.

However, after helping a volunteer from the church bring out all the food and place it in the car, Yoder was shocked when she didnt receive a tip.

Taking to Facebook, Yoder expressed her disappointment with the churchs lack of gratuity. From there, one of Yoders friend saw the post - and called the church to discuss the matter.

However, it turned out the volunteer at the church didnt know to tip on a takeaway order.

But according to Yoder, Coming in to eat or takeout, you should automatically be wanting to tip 15 per cent. From there, you either go up or go down based on service.

Upset by their mistake, someone from the Christ Fellowship Church called the Outback the next day to make things right.

But Yoders Facebook post of the incident only made the situation worse.

Upon showing up for her shift the next day, Yoder was told she was fired - as Outback has a strict policy forbidding workers from posting about customers on social media.

Following Yoders termination, the churchs Facebook page was inundated with comments about the incident.

The church expressed their apologies on Facebook and told the Palm Beach Post that their intent was to find a way to get a tip to the employee and did not desire in any way for punitive action to be taken.

David Lonsberry, an executive director of business for Christ Fellowship told the Palm Beach Post: We did not call the restaurant to have her fired, we wanted to get the situation resolved.

However, he did point out that at no time that night did any member of the Christ Fellowship staff dine-in at the Outback.

The church has since found a way to make it up to Yoder, who had told the Palm Beach Post Tips is how we make our money.

Tamlynn Yoder was fired from Outback Steakhouse after complaining a church didn't tip her

According to Yoder, the church has compensated her for the $735 order - which included 25 steak dinners, 25 chicken dinners, and 25 orders of potatoes.

Yoder told the Palm Beach Post the compensation for the incident totalled more than a tip she would have received and that the church told her a couple of the church families came together for me.

Despite receiving compensation from the church, Yoders mother has now set up a GoFundMe page for the former Outback server.

The page is asking for donations to reach a goal of $6,000 that would help get Tamlynn back on her feet.The UKs fraud watchdog on Monday morning announced that it had charged Barclays Bank over making a loan to Qatar at the height of the global financial crisis a decade ago.

The Serious Fraud Office already in June 2017 said that it had brought charges against parent company Barclays PLC in relation to a capital raising, which was conducted by the bank back in 2008.

At the time, the SFO appeared to have not yet made a decision as to whether it would also bring charges in relation to the loan against Barclays Bank  the unit of Barclays PLC that is licensed to provide banking services - but on Monday it said that it would be charging that unit with the same offence.

Recommended Barclays Bank charged by Serious Fraud Office over Qatar loan

So what does this all mean and could this impact Barclays ability to operate here in the UK? We take a closer look.

What exactly is Barclays being accused of?

In 2008, during the financial crisis, Barclays accepted a 12bn loan from Qatar Holdings, which is an investment company owned by the state. Barclays in turn loaned Qatar $3bn. That loan may have broken the law if the SFO can prove that it was linked directly to the Qatari payment.

It helped save Barclays from having to turn to UK taxpayers for a bailout, but UK companies are usually not allowed to lend money thats then used to buy shares in their own company.

A date for a first court appearance is yet to be set.

Might Barclays lose its banking license?

Theoretically, if Barclays is found guilty of having broken the law, it could have its banking license revoked. At this stage, that looks unlikely though.

There are numerous examples of banks that have been convicted of wrongdoings but have continued to operate as usual. The implications of losing its license would also be colossal, so Barclays is unlikely to let that happen without putting up a serious fight.

And investors appear pretty sanguine too. Shares in the bank shrugged off the latest charges. If shareholders really did think that losing its license were likely, then youd expect to see Barclays share price in free fall.

On Monday, Barclays PLC and Barclays Bank said that they intend to defend the respective charges brought against them.

Barclays does not expect there to be an impact on its ability to serve its customers and clients as a consequence of the charge having been brought, the group said.

But Barclays does face other troubles

What might prove more troublesome in the long run are some of the other charges which Barclays is facing.

Regulators are in the process of deciding how to respond to attempts by the groups chief executive officer, Jes Staley, to unmask a whistleblowers identity last year.Australias high commissioner to the UK has spoken out about the benefits of Britain leaving the customs union after its exit from the EU next year  saying that by negotiating unilateral trade agreements instead, the country would be able to retain control of its trade policy.

Speaking to BBC radio, Alexander Downer said that Australia had experienced the huge advantages of unilateral trade liberalisation itself.

The fact is that it does lead to some economic restructuring  some redirection of investment. But it also contributes to economic reform, and you need a constant rate of economic reform to achieve high rates of economic growth, he said.

Its worked for us with 26 consecutive years of economic growth, partially because weve opened our market to the world, he added.

Continued membership of the customs union has represented a major subject of debate for politicians both in the UK and in Brussels. Staying in would be the only way Britain can guarantee continued tariff-free trade with the bloc, but both the Conservatives and Labour have ruled that option out.

Leaving it, by contrast, would guarantee the ability to agree new free trade agreements with other nations.

Mr Downer on Monday said that although each countrys circumstances are different, Australia would not want the UK and the EU to introduce a whole load of tariff barriers between them. This, he said, would not just be damaging to the European and British economies but also damaging to the global economy.

Instead, he said that Australia wants to build back its trade with the UK.

We could build substantially more trade if we were able to negotiate a free trade agreement. If you remain in the customs union... you would have no control over an independent trade policy, in fact youd have no control over trade policy at all, he said.

He insisted that he did not want to express a view on which scenario was preferable  the UK staying in the customs union or leaving it  but he did emphasise that countries like Australia, China, Japan, the US, and so on, would not be able to conduct trade negotiations with the UK if Britain were to leave the union.

We would only conduct trade negotiations with the EU, which we already do. You wouldnt be relevant to that  you wouldnt have a say in those trade negotiations, he said.

He concluded that the UK had been a great force for free trade within the EU.

We equally are happy to negotiate a free trade agreement with the EU and are beginning that process already, but if you stay in the customs union that cuts you out of that process, Mr Downer said.Adverts for some of the worlds most famous brands could disappear from Facebook, Twitter and YouTube after Unilever threatened to pull its marketing from platforms that create division in society and promote anger and hate.

The announcement will come as a striking warning for technology firms who have been heavily criticised for failing to stem the flow of fake news, radicalism and hate speech across the internet.

Unilever, an Anglo-Dutch consumer-goods giant that owns brands like Marmite, Dove, Persil and PG Tips, is the worlds second-biggest spender on marketing, according to the Financial Times.

Keith Weed, Unilevers chief marketing officer, will give the warning to other technology firms in a speech on Monday at the annual Interactive Advertising Bureau conference.

As one of the largest advertisers in the world, we cannot have an environment where our consumers dont trust what they see online, he plans to say, according to the company.

We cannot continue to prop up a digital supply chain  one that delivers over a quarter of our advertising to our consumers  which at times is little better than a swamp in terms of its transparency.

He will say that Unilever does not want to advertise on platforms which do not make a positive contribution to society.

That means not investing in platforms or environments that do not protect our children or which create division in society, and promote anger or hate.

We will prioritise investing only in responsible platforms that are committed to creating a positive impact in society, he will say.

Fake news, racism, sexism, terrorists spreading messages of hate, toxic content directed at children  parts of the internet we have ended up with is a million miles from where we thought it would take us.

It is in the digital media industrys interest to listen and act on this. Before viewers stop viewing, advertisers stop advertising and publishers stop publishing.

Facebook, Twitter and Google, which boast billions of users, have been exposed as major channels for the dissemination of extreme material.

The companies have all said that they have increased their efforts to remove inappropriate content but critics say more needs to be done.

Last year, dozens of firms suspended their adverts from YouTube, which is owned by Google, after their adverts were placed alongside videos posted by extremists including David Duke, former leader of the Ku Klux Klan, as well as groups linked to Isis.

Unilever will say that trust in social media has slumped to a new low and warn that 2018 could be the year of the tech-lash where people turn on technology companied.

This is a deep and systematic issue. An issue of trust that fundamentally threatens to undermine the relationship between consumers and brands.

Brands have to play their role in resolving it, Mr Weed will say.

No longer can we stand to one side or remain at arms length just because issues in the supply chain do not affect us directly. To remain relevant, and trusted by consumers, brands have to take the lead.The official in charge of the UKs second largest police force signalled a radical new approach to the war on drugs on Monday, including plans to keep some drug offenders out of criminal courts and provide users heroin on prescription.

David Jamieson, West Midlands Police and Crime commissioner, said drugs were costing 1.4bn of public money a year in his region alone, and fresh ideas were needed to tackle the problem.

Mr Jamieson, who sets the regions policing priorities and budget, said the time has come to treat addiction as a public health issue  a move that has been welcomed by charities and medical experts.

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PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. 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PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. 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This will include schemes that provide heroin as part of treatment, to reduce petty crime and stop money being funnelled to criminal gangs  a move with some government support.

It will also include a review of heroin consumption rooms, which already run in EU countries including France, Spain and Portugal but are opposed by the Home Office.

These are medically supervised spaces providing clean needles and equipment for users. They have been shown to significantly lower overdose rates and increase use of rehab programmes.

The schemes are backed by MPs, as well as medical groups, such as the British Medical Association and the Governments own policy advisers, the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD).

Experts have said the Government must accept responsibility for rising drug deaths driven in part by austerity, with 3,744 people dying of overdoses in 2016  about 70 per cent of which were overdoses of illicit drugs.

The West Midlands intervention is aimed at doing away with the failed enforcement tactics associated with the war on drugs, and plans to introduce several other initiatives, some of which are already working in other parts of the UK, including:

A formal alternative to the court system that will direct users to treatment programmes rather than jails.

This could be similar to the Checkpoint programme run by Durham Constabulary, which offers offenders, including low-level drug dealers and consumers, the chance to avoid prosecution if they avoid reoffending and complete community service and restorative justice programmes over four months.

This could be similar to the Checkpoint programme run by Durham Constabulary, which offers offenders, including low-level drug dealers and consumers, the chance to avoid prosecution if they avoid reoffending and complete community service and restorative justice programmes over four months. City-centre testing for recreational drugs used by night clubbers, a scheme that has previously been run at festivals and provides information on the strength and purity of drugs being taken.

Training and equipping police officers to deliver anti-overdose drug naloxone.

Seizing more money from large criminal gangs, and reinvesting it in drug prevention programmes.

Despite the good work being done by many, collectively our approach to drugs is failing, Mr Jamieson said.

Drugs are costing the West Midlands 1.4bn each year. It means people are forced to live with more crime, public services are put under strain and not enough is done to reduce the suffering of those who are addicted.

If we are to cut crime and save lives theres one thing we can all agree on; we need fresh ideas.

These are bold, but practical proposals that will reduce crime, the cost to the public purse and the terrible harm caused by drugs.

Recommended Drug consumption rooms can help reduce the harm caused by addiction

These proposals tackle the drugs market head on, hitting the organised criminals profiting from the misery of others.

Campaigner Rose Humphries, of the Anyones Child project, welcomed the change of direction for police forces.

Ms Humphries lost two sons to heroin overdoses, and she said: Bitter experience has taught me that current drugs policy didnt protect my children, and it wont protect yours.

If their drug use had been treated as a health issue instead of a criminal one, Jake and Roland would probably be alive today.

The commissioners office reports that every three days in the West Midlands somebody dies from drug poisoning, while organised criminals are profiting.

 Global commission call for legalisation of drugs

Half of all burglary, theft, shoplifting and robbery is committed by people suffering from serious addiction to drugs including heroin and crack cocaine.

Transform Drug Policy Foundation, a group that backs the regulated role for medically supervised drug taking as treatment, told The Independent there is a rising tide of recognition that criminalising those experiencing addiction was not working.

It added that the Government will have to rethink its opposition to drug consumption rooms as support grows.

The organisations director of campaigns, Martin Powell, said: Our failed approach to drugs cannot be allowed to continue. Drug deaths are at a record high, while young peoples drug use has risen from 15 to 24 per cent in three years.

We welcome the PCCs recommendations, which are a sensible, real-world response to drug use and supply in the West Midlands, which we hope everyone will get behind.

The benefits will be huge: crimes committed to fund drug use will fall, as will profits for organised crime gangs, while overdoses, HIV infections, and ambulance call-outs will be cut.

World's 10 deadliest street drugs Show all 10 1 /10 World's 10 deadliest street drugs World's 10 deadliest street drugs Whoonga Whoonga is a combination of antiretroviral drugs, used to treat HIV, and various cutting agents such as detergents and poisons. The drug is widely available in South Africa due to South Africas high rate of HIV sufferers, and is believed to be popular due to how cheap it is when compared to prescribed antiretrovirals. The drug is highly addictive and can cause major health issues such as internal bleeding, stomach ulcers and ultimately death Getty World's 10 deadliest street drugs Scopolamine Scopolamine is a derivative from the nightshade plant found in the Northern Indian region of South America (Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela). It is generally found in a refined powder form, but can also be found as a tea. The drug is more often used by criminals due its high toxicity level (one gram is believed to be able to kill up to 20 people) making it a strong poison. However, it is also believed that the drug is blown into the faces of unexpecting victims, later causing them to lose all sense of self-control and becoming incapable of forming memories during the time they are under the influence of the drug. This tactic has reportedly been used by gangs in Colombia where there have been reports of people using scopolamine as way to convince victims to rob their own homes World's 10 deadliest street drugs Heroin Founded in 1874 by C. R. Alder Wright, heroin is one of the worlds oldest drugs. Originally it was prescribed as a strong painkiller used to treat chronic pain and physical trauma. However in 1971 it was made illegal under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Since then it has become one of the most destructive substances in the world, tearing apart communities and destroying families. The side effects of heroin include inflammation of the gums, cold sweats, a weak immune system, muscular weakness and insomnia. It can also damage blood vessels which can later cause gangrene if left untreated World's 10 deadliest street drugs Crack cocaine Crack cocaine first came about in the 1980s when cocaine became a widespread commodity within the drug trafficking world. Originally cocaine would have attracted a high price tag due to its rarity and difficulty to produce, but once it became more widespread the price dropped significantly. This resulted in drug dealers forming their cocaine into rock like shapes by using baking soda as a way of distilling the powder down into rock form. People were doing this because it allowed for them to sell cocaine at a lower quantity and to a higher number of people. The side effects of crack cocaine include liver, kidney and lung damage, as well as permanent damage to blood vessels, which can often lead to heart attacks, strokes, and ultimately death World's 10 deadliest street drugs Crystal meth Not just famous because of a certain Walter H White, but also because it is one of the most destructive drugs in the world. First developed in 1887, it became widely used during the Second World War when both sides would give it to their troops to keep them awake. It is also believed that the Japanese gave it to their Kamikaze pilots before their suicide missions. After the war crystal meth was prescribed as a diet aid and remained legal until the 1970s. Since then it has fallen into the hands of Mexican gangs and has become a worldwide phenomenon, spreading throughout Europe and Asia. The effects of crystal meth are devastating. In the short-term users will become sleep depraved and anxious, and in the long-term it will cause their flesh to sink, as well as brain damage and damage of the blood vessels World's 10 deadliest street drugs AH-7921 AH-7921 is a synthetic opioid that was previously available to legally purchase online from vendors until it became a Class A in January 2015. The drug is believed to have 80% of the potency of morphine, and became known as the legal heroin. While there has only been one death related to AH-7921 in the UK, it is believed to be highly dangerous and capable of causing respiratory arrest and gangrene World's 10 deadliest street drugs Flakka Flakka is a stimulant with a similar chemical make-up to the amphetamine-like drug found in bath salts. While the drug was originally marketed as a legal high alternative to ecstasy, the effects are significantly different. The user will feel an elevated heart rate, enhanced emotions, and, if enough is digested, strong hallucinations. The drug can cause permanent psychological damage due to it affecting the mood regulating neurons that keep the minds serotonin and dopamine in check, as well as possibly causing heart failure World's 10 deadliest street drugs Bath salts Bath salts are a synthetic crystalline drug that is prevalent in the US. While they may sound harmless, they certainly arent the sort of salts you drop into a warm bath when having a relaxing night in, they are most similar to mephedrone, and have recently been featured throughout social media due to the zombification of its. The name comes from the fact that the drug was originally sold online, and widely disguised as bath salts. The side effects include unusual psychiatric behaviour, psychosis, panic attacks and violent behaviour, as well as the possibility of a heart attack and an elevated body temperature World's 10 deadliest street drugs Purple Drank One of the more unusual drugs around at the moment, purple drank was popularised in 90s hip hop culture, with the likes of Jay Z and Big Moe all mentioning it in their songs. It is a concoction of soda water, sweets and cold medicine, and is drunk due to cold medicines high codeine content, which gives the user a woozy feeling. However it can also cause respiratory issues and heart failure World's 10 deadliest street drugs Krokodil Krokodil is Russias secret addiction. It is believed that over one million Russians are addicted to the drug. Users of krokodil are attracted to the drug due to its low price; it is sold at 20 a gram while heroin is sold for 60. However, krokodil is considered more dangerous than heroin because it is often homemade, with ingredients including painkillers, iodine, lighter fluid and industrial cleaning agents. This chemical make-up makes the drug highly dangerous and likely to cause gangrene, and eventually rotting of the flesh

Shirley Cramer CBE, chief executive of the Royal Society for Public Health, said the recommendations were welcome. We know that diverting people suffering as a result of harmful substance use away from the criminal justice system and into treatment leads to better outcomes for the individual and for society, and we know that pragmatic harm reduction interventions, such as drug consumption rooms, heroin assisted treatment and drug safety testing, can play an extremely helpful role in that process, she added.

It is heartening to hear more influential voices, with on-the-ground experience of these issues, give these measures their backing.

A Home Office spokesperson backed the move to bring together police and health partners, but added: This Government has no plans whatsoever to introduce drug consumption rooms. There is no legal framework for the provision of drug consumption rooms in the UK.

A range of offences is likely to be committed in the operation of drug consumption rooms. We expect local police forces to enforce the law in such circumstances.

The Insite supervised injection facility in Vancouver, Canada, provides clean equipment and medical supervision (Vancouver Coastal Health)At my local Chinese takeaway, January was greeted with the traditional handing over of the calendar along with my order, a brightly coloured affair thats been a household fixture for some years.

Ah, I said, unfurling the scroll. Its the Year of the Dog! Thats my birth year!

This was not greeted by the jubilation and letting off of fireworks (or perhaps a free bag of prawn crackers) that I was half hoping for, but rather a tight smile.

Recommended What Chinese New Year is and how to celebrate it

It was only later I found out why. Rather than being a good omen, as Id assumed, the dominant Chinese zodiac year for those whose birthdates match up to the animal in the 12-year cycle is actually very unlucky indeed.

However, there is a happy end to this story  Chinese New Year begins on 16 February, and my birthday is in January, so Im actually a rooster. For the rest of you, though, who were born between next Friday and 4 February 2019 in the years 1934, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2016 or 2010 well, all Ill say is try to avoid the colour red in the coming year, and steer clear of the numbers one, three and nine. So if you live in London and catch the 139 bus from Golders Green to Waterloo on a regular basis, it might be prudent to invest in a pair of walking boots.

If you are a dog, youre not alone. Perhaps the most high-profile dog is none other than the US President, Donald Trump. Indeed, if you happen to find yourself in Taiyuan, the capital of Chinas Shanxi province, you wont be able to miss a gigantic dog statue outside a shopping mall which bears more than a striking resemblance to Potus, flyaway golden hair and all.

Looks familiar? (Getty)

Of course, you wont be wishing ill on Donald Trump in the Year of the Dog, and to be fair, it doesnt necessarily mean bad luck. Take Elvis Presley, who werent nuthin but a hound dog despite being born in 1935 (he just squeaked in because, like me, his birthday was in January). After his big comeback in 1969, dog year 1970 was a big one for him as his re-booted reputation grew immensely. Bill Clinton was, as is Trump, a year into what would turn out to be his first term of office in the White House in 1994, so he was probably not having too bad a year.

Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Show all 17 1 /17 Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year The final day, Day 15, of Chinese New Year sees the Lantern Festival, where red Chinese lanterns are released into the sky AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year A man takes a photo of colorful lights with his smartphone at a lantern fair in Beijing AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Chinese New Year is the longest national holiday in China AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Although China has used the Gregorian calendar since 1912, Chinese New Year is based on the ancient Chinese lunar calendar, falling on the second new moon after winter solstice AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Roughly a sixth of the world will observe Chinese New Year, with celebrations in Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysia AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year A Chinese family visits a lantern show Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year 2017 is the year of the tenth Chinese zodiac, the rooster REUTERS Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year The year's of the rooster include 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993 and 2005 Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Those born in 1957 or 2017 are fire roosters, and are considered trustworthy, with a strong sense of timekeeping and responsibility at work. Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Fire roosters are recommended to avoid the colour red and their unlucky numbers: one, three and nine. Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Fire roosters are also thought to be talkative, popular in a crowd and loyal Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year The rooster will be followed by the dog in 2018 and the pig in 2019 Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year A family visits a lantern show for the Lantern Festival in Zhangjiakou, China Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year People visit a light show celebrating the festival REUTERS Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Beijing is bidding to host the Winter Olympics Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year A general view of signage Beijing's bid for the Winter Olympics logo during the Chinese Lantern Festival Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Performers put on a show to celebrate the Lantern Festival Getty Images

Other famous dogs include Dame Judi Dench, Sophia Loren, Alan Rickman, David Bowie, Steven Spielberg, both Prince William and Kate Middleton, Justin Bieber, Madonna and Mother Teresa.

There are 12 animals represented on the Chinese zodiac; as well as the dog there is the boar, or pig; the rat; the ox; the tiger; the rabbit; dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey and the rooster, my own sign which wont see the light of day again until 2029, having been front and centre last year.

 Rome's Chinese community welcome in the Year of the Dog

You might be thinking that notable by its absence is the cat, which is usually well represented in Chinese culture, especially in those beckoning cat trinkets. Well, there is of course a story to that, for which we must go back to the far ancient times when the Jade Emperor decreed that the earthly calendar would be represented by 12 animals, and ordered the beasts and birds of the world to rock up to his palace, the first dozen getting the job.

So the story goes, the cat and the rat were huge pals back in those days, and decided to journey together to the Jade Emperors palace to take up their places on the zodiac. But apparently the rat forgot to wake up his friend (yeah, right, if you believe that) and set off on his own. When the kitty finally dragged itself out of bed, friend rat was well on his way. Not only that, but hed made some new pals, notably the ox, who agreed to carry the rat on his back on the long journey. Once they got to the Jade Emperors palace, the rat was all like, yeah, cheers for the ride, hopped off and was the first one through the gates.

The Thean Hou temple is decorated with red lanterns in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in preparation for the 2017 New Year celebrations (Getty)

The animosity between oxen and rats isnt well recorded, but if you ever wondered why cats hate rats, then theres your answer.

These days, the Chinese New Year is a massive, two-week celebration, and not just in mainland China; therell be a huge event on the New Year weekend in Londons Chinatown, and other Chinese communities around the world.

In fact, Chinese New Year is a bit of a misnomer because the event is also marked in Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Vietnam and beyond in fact, a sixth of the worlds population will be having their New Years Day next Friday, rather than on 1 January.

The dozen signs of the Chinese zodiac  which one is yours? (iStock)

But why different new years anyway? The Gregorian calendar, on which most of the west marks time, is a solar calendar, based on the time it takes for the earth to travel around the sun, which is of course 365 days give or take a few straggling hours which are lumped together into an extra leap year day every four years, split into 12 months.

The Chinese and other predominantly eastern calendars are based on a lunar cycle, which does tend to make more sense in terms of cultures with a venerable history. The sun pretty much looks the same whenever you look at it; the moon waxes and wanes and its progress throughout a month can be observed and recorded without the need for any special astronomical instruments.

More than that, though, the Chinese calendar especially was based on an agricultural pattern. The formation of the calendar based on the movements of the moon is said to date back to the Xia dynasty, about 16-21 centuries BC.

But whereas the Gregorian calendar has New Years Day firmly on 1 January every year, the Chinese New Year is more of a moveable feast. This is because back when the Chinese calendar was being formulated it was based on the lunar cycle of roughly 29.5 days, which when multiplied by 12 gives you 354 days  11 short of what we use as standard today. This means that the date of the New Year hops around the first half of February quite a lot.

A little over a century ago, when the Republic of China was founded in 1912, the western Gregorian calendar was adopted, but the Chinese New Year festivities persist, often called Spring Festival as, in keeping with its agrarian beginnings, this was the start of the new agricultural cycle of ploughing, sowing, nurturing and harvesting crops.

There are many traditions associated with Chinese New Year which last today. Fireworks, of course, and the impressive dragon puppet parades. Theres also the tradition of younger family members receiving gifts of cash in red envelopes, a practice known as hongbao. These days, though, its a bit more hi-tech, with several Chinese companies developing phone-based apps via which cash, or sometimes virtual currency, can be deposited by tech-savvy older folks into their kids accounts.

One of the most popular, the WeChat red envelope app, was launched in 2014 and by New Year 2016 the developing company Tencent was reporting a whopping 2.3 billion individual transactions.

Cultures other than China have their own traditions around the Spring New Year. In Korea, celebrants dress up in colourful costumes and practice a ritual offering of tea. On Bali, in contrast with the brash, loud celebrations of other territories, New Year  which falls a little later in March  is seen as a day of rest and quiet contemplation. Even later, in April, the lunar calendar adopted by the Indian states of Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh sees celebrations marked by fireworks, new clothes, and a snack of mango-based sweet and sour chutney.

The Chinese New Year will run until 4 February 2019, and the dog will make way for the Year of the Boar. Fingers crossed we get there; Im not sure if Donald Trump has seen that huge statue of him in China with a decidedly canine makeover, but it feels worrying like exactly the sort of stupid thing hes likely to start a devastating nuclear war over. Which would be bad luck for everybody.A man has been left in a critical condition after being punched in Manchester City Centre over the weekend.

Shortly before 2am on Saturday, police responded to reports of fighting outside The Printworks near Dantzic Street and Thornily Brow.

It is believed a large fight of around 15 people took place, but enquiries are still underway.

A man in his fifties tried to intervene and was punched in the face and knocked unconscious. He was taken to hospital with a serious head injury and remains in a critical condition. A second man, who is in his twenties, was also taken to hospital after suffering cuts and bruises, Greater Manchester Police said.

A 25-year-old man arrested near the scene on suspicion of affray and a 32-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender have been released while under investigation.

Detectives are searching through CCTV footage for evidence and are seeking to speak to witnesses of the fight.

Detective inspector Mark Davis, from GMPs City of Manchester team, said: This was a large brawl in the city centre at a time when a lot of people would be leaving bars and clubs.

It might be that you witnessed something but didnt think to contact police at the time. If so, please get in touch with us as soon as possible.

Just one punch on a night out has the potential to change peoples lives and a man has been severely injured as a result.

We also know there were lots of cars in the area and I would urge drivers to check their dash cam footage to see if theres anything on there that could help us with this investigation.

We also believe there might be further victims who were injured and again, I would ask you to call us too.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. 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PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. 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The bridge was closed last year after cracks in it worsened during a heatwave Getty UK news in pictures 16 July 2021 The sun rises behind the Sefton Park Palm House, in Sefton Park, Liverpool PA UK news in pictures 15 July 2021 Sir Nicholas Serota watches a short film about sea monsters as he opens a 7.6 million, 360 immersive dome at Devonport's Market Hall in Plymouth, which is the first of its type to be built in Europe PA UK news in pictures 14 July 2021 Heidi Street, playing a gothic character, looks at a brain suspended in glass at the worlds first attraction dedicated to the author of Frankenstein inside the Mary Shelleys House of Frankenstein experience, located in a Georgian terraced house in Bath, as it prepares to open to the public on 19 July PA UK news in pictures 13 July 2021 Rehearsals are held in a car park in Glasgow for a parade scene ahead of filming for what is thought to be the new Indiana Jones 5 movie starring Harrison Ford PA

Anyone with any information should call 101 quoting incident number 190 of 10 February or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

With additional reporting from PA.Boris Johnsons plans for a new link between the UK and Europe could be coming closer to reality after Eurotunnel, which manages the Channel Tunnel, said it had contacted the Government to discuss the proposals.

Speaking to The Independent, Eurotunnel spokesman John Keefe, said: As part of the Treaty of Canterbury and the Concession Agreement which established the Channel Tunnel, Eurotunnel has the right to build the next fixed link. Because of this we have written to the Government and said lets have a chat. Theres no more to it than that.

Eurotunnel added: Mr Johnsons comments are a good endorsement for a fixed link across the English Channel. Whether its a bridge or a tunnel, which would be decided on environmental grounds, Eurotunnel would be part of the process.

The Treaty of Canterbury was signed by British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and French President Francois Mitterrand in 1986 and is the original document providing for the construction of the undersea tunnel between the UK and France.

The Concession Agreement, which was also signed in 1986, entrusts Eurotunnel with the design, financing, construction and operation of the Channel Tunnel for a period of 55 years. The concession was later extended to 2086.

The comments come after a report by The Telegraph, detailing a letter to the Prime Minister from Eurotunnel, which included comments from the companys French chief executive, Jacques Gounon, who said he is very interested in a second fixed link and would be delighted to start discussions.

The note from Mr Gounon states: The idea of a second fixed link is something that we regularly consider in our long term plans and we would be delighted to engage with your officials to explore the possibility further.

The idea was first put forward by Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson. Mr Johnson said the link, which could function as a bridge between Britain and France, would consolidate the relationship between the countries after Brexit.

Mr Johnson spoke about the project with French President Emmanuel Macron at a summit earlier this year, but his proposal was later criticised by No 10.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 13 September 2021 Luke Jerram's 'Museum of the Moon' at Durham Cathedral PA UK news in pictures 12 September 2021 Inspirational young fundraiser Tobias Weller crosses the finish line, near his home in Sheffield, as he completes his latest epic feat where he swam and triked his way to the end of his awesome year-long Ironman Challenge. This is the third challenge Tobias, who has cerebral palsy and autism, has completed, raising more than 150,000 for his school and Sheffield Children Hospitals charity PA UK news in pictures 11 September 2021 British player Emma Raducanu, holds up the US Open championship trophy winning the women's singles final of the US Open in New York AP UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. PA UK news in pictures 26 July 2021 A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel PA

At the time, he tweeted: En marche! Great meetings with French counterparts today and added: Im especially pleased we are establishing a panel of experts to look at major projects together.

Our economic success depends on good infrastructure and good connections. Should the Channel Tunnel be just a first step?Friends and family of a Scottish man who went missing during his brother's stag party in Hamburg have appealed for help in finding him.

Liam Colgan, from Inverness, was last seen in the early hours of Saturday morning in the German city, where he had organised the trip for around 18 people.

The 29-year-old has not been seen since 1.30am in the Hamborger Veermaster bar in the Reeperbahn area.

Police became involved in the search when he failed to show up for activities on the Saturday afternoon.

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

Alan Pearson, who was on the trip, told BBC Radio Scotland: "It was towards the end of the night that Liam became separated from the group, but nobody realised at the time, given the nature of the event. It was hard to keep tabs on everyone.

"Having retraced our steps and spoken to bar staff in the last bar he was seen in, we understand that he left a few minutes before the rest of the group."

He added: "He's not done anything like this before. You might often hear in appeals like this that the behaviour is completely out of character and that is absolutely the truth in this case.

"When he didn't turn up for activities he had planned in the afternoon we knew something was amiss there so we pressed the police to assist and were eventually able to get an investigation started on Sunday morning."

Mr Colgan's brother and father have remained in Hamburg along with a group of his friends to continue the search, while friends in Inverness have been helping by contacting hospitals in the city. The Foreign Office is also in contact with German police.

A Facebook page titled "Help find Liam Colgan" has been created with appeals in English and German.

It said: "Liam, is the best man for his brother Eamonn Colgan and is responsible for organising the stag do to Hamburg, Germany.

"Eamonn is due to marry his fiance Susan in three weeks time back in Scotland so we are launching an urgent appeal to find Liam."

Mr Colgan is around 6ft with a slim build and ginger hair. When last seen, he was wearing a brown leather jacket and a grey hoodie.

A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: "We are in contact with the German police after a British man was reported missing in Hamburg, Germany.

"We are providing advice and assistance to his family."London City Airport has been closed following the discovery of a Second World War bomb in the River Thames at the nearby King George V Dock.

A 214-metre exclusion zone has been set up as a precaution by the Metropolitan Police, and roads in the area have been closed.

The bomb was found during routine work at the dock which runs alongside the airports runway.

The Royal Navy attended the scene and confirmed the nature of the device, Scotland Yard said.

The airport has advised all passengers not to travel to the airport and to contact their airline for further information.

In a statement, the Met said: The ordnance was discovered as part of pre-planned work at London City Airport and reported to the police at 05:06hrs on Sunday, 11 February.

The operation to remove the ordnance is ongoing in partnership with our colleagues in the Royal Navy.

At 22:00hrs an operational decision was made with the Royal Navy to implement a 214-metre exclusion zone to ensure that the ordnance can be safely dealt with whilst limiting any risk to the public.

Transport for London said the airport was shut and road closures were in place.

The airport has been closed due to an emergency services incident. There are also additional local road closures due to the incident. Traffic is light in the area.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. 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The bridge was closed last year after cracks in it worsened during a heatwave Getty

It is not yet known how long the airport will remain closed.The number of people being admitted to hospital due to problems with alcohol has hit a record high in England, new figures show, following steep cuts to addiction support services in recent years.

Alcohol-related admissions have risen by more than two-thirds in a decade, with the figure now standing at more than 1.1 million in 2017, according to data released by Public Health England (PHE).

Politicians and campaigners warn government cuts to public health infrastructure have failed thousands of vulnerable people as well as increasing pressures on hard-pressed frontline A&E departments.

Spending on drug and alcohol support services across England fell by 16 per cent in the four years to 2017, as revealed by The Independent in August. The latest figures show there has been a 13 per cent rise in hospital admissions over the same period.

Separate data last year showed the number of people getting government-funded support to tackle their addictions had decreased by 10 per cent in three years, with the number of interventions falling from 308,118 in 2013-14 to 278,489 in 2016-17.

Jonathan Ashworth, Shadow Health Secretary, said: These are deeply worrying figures and reveal yet again the impact alcohol abuse has on society. Tackling alcohol addiction and supporting those and their families impacted by alcohol is a major priority of mine.

However, Government cuts to our public health infrastructure, including slashing 43m from alcohol and drug addiction services, not only fails thousands of vulnerable people but as we see here also increases pressures on frontline A&E departments.

Its why rebuilding our public health services is vital to the future of our NHS.

The rise in alcohol admissions comes despite statistics last year which showed the proportion of adults drinking was at its lowest level since 2005 and that younger people were more likely to be abstaining from alcohol. Nonetheless, 7.8 million people admitted to binge drinking on their heaviest drinking day.

In 2016, a total of 7,327 people died from alcohol-specific causes in the UK, equating to 11.7 deaths per 100,000 population  a rate significantly higher than that observed in 2001, when there were 10.6 deaths per 100,000 population.

A report by a cross-party group of MPs on Sunday found that 37 per cent of child deaths and serious injuries through neglect were linked to parental drinking, with separate figures revealing that over half of councils still do not have a strategy to help children of alcoholics.

Public health chiefs revealed last month that 4 per cent of UK drinkers who had the most harmful alcohol consumption habits accounted for a third of all the alcohol drunk in the country  a figure described as staggering.

Professor Sir Ian Gilmore, chair of the Alcohol Health Alliance and former president of the Royal College of Physicians, said that although less people in England are drinking large amounts of alcohol, those who do drink often do so in a more damaging and destructive way.

He added: Alcohol treatment services are in crisis and theres no doubt at all that less people are able to access them now. These are often the people who are drinking the most, and theyre ending up in acute hospitals.

Professor Gilmore said the heaviest drinkers usually gravitate towards the cheapest drink, and called for a minimum unit pricing of alcohol.

Scotland will be introducing minimum unit pricing on 1 May, and there should be no delay in the Westminster government following suit in England. Theres no room for complacency, he said.

"Any delay will lead to more lives being lost, and more people being admitted to hospital unnecessarily."

The new data shows the highest number of admissions for treatment directly related to alcohol were aged between 45 and 54, with this age group accounting for 58 per cent of all admissions. Under-24s meanwhile accounted for 8 per cent.

The primary cause for admissions was alcohol-related cardiovascular disease accounting for 576,212 of cases, followed by 194,286 admissions for mental and behavioural disorders due to alcohol use.

Men and boys were more likely to be admitted than women and girls, accounting for 62 per cent of admissions. The only age group where females were more likely to be admitted were under-16s, where they made up 54 per cent of admissions.

The region where people were most likely to be treated in hospital for alcohol-related reasons was the North East, where there were 2,690 admissions per 100,000 people. The South East saw the least, at 1,800 per 100,000 members of the population, according to the data.

Figures on Thursday confirmed record pressures in NHS A&E departments, showing waiting times hit their worst ever level last month, with 85 per cent of patients waiting more than four hours to be seen.

Health news in pictures Show all 40 1 /40 Health news in pictures Health news in pictures Coronavirus outbreak The coronavirus Covid-19 has hit the UK leading to the deaths of two people so far and prompting warnings from the Department of Health AFP via Getty Health news in pictures Thousands of emergency patients told to take taxi to hospital Thousands of 999 patients in England are being told to get a taxi to hospital, figures have showed. The number of patients outside London who were refused an ambulance rose by 83 per cent in the past year as demand for services grows Getty Health news in pictures Vape related deaths spike A vaping-related lung disease has claimed the lives of 11 people in the US in recent weeks. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has more than 100 officials investigating the cause of the mystery illness, and has warned citizens against smoking e-cigarette products until more is known, particularly if modified or bought off the street Getty Health news in pictures Baldness cure looks to be a step closer Researchers in the US claim to have overcome one of the major hurdles to cultivating human follicles from stem cells. The new system allows cells to grow in a structured tuft and emerge from the skin Sanford Burnham Preybs Health news in pictures Two hours a week spent in nature can improve health A study in the journal Scientific Reports suggests that a dose of nature of just two hours a week is associated with better health and psychological wellbeing Shutterstock Health news in pictures Air pollution linked to fertility issues in women Exposure to air from traffic-clogged streets could leave women with fewer years to have children, a study has found. Italian researchers found women living in the most polluted areas were three times more likely to show signs they were running low on eggs than those who lived in cleaner surroundings, potentially triggering an earlier menopause Getty/iStock Health news in pictures Junk food ads could be banned before watershed Junk food adverts on TV and online could be banned before 9pm as part of Government plans to fight the "epidemic" of childhood obesity. Plans for the new watershed have been put out for public consultation in a bid to combat the growing crisis, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said PA Health news in pictures Breeding with neanderthals helped humans fight diseases On migrating from Africa around 70,000 years ago, humans bumped into the neanderthals of Eurasia. While humans were weak to the diseases of the new lands, breeding with the resident neanderthals made for a better equipped immune system PA Health news in pictures Cancer breath test to be trialled in Britain The breath biopsy device is designed to detect cancer hallmarks in molecules exhaled by patients Getty Health news in pictures Average 10 year old has consumed the recommended amount of sugar for an adult By their 10th birthdy, children have on average already eaten more sugar than the recommended amount for an 18 year old. The average 10 year old consumes the equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day, 8 more than is recommended PA Health news in pictures Child health experts advise switching off screens an hour before bed While there is not enough evidence of harm to recommend UK-wide limits on screen use, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have advised that children should avoid screens for an hour before bed time to avoid disrupting their sleep Getty Health news in pictures Daily aspirin is unnecessary for older people in good health, study finds A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that many elderly people are taking daily aspirin to little or no avail Getty Health news in pictures Vaping could lead to cancer, US study finds A study by the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Centre has found that the carcinogenic chemicals formaldehyde, acrolein, and methylglyoxal are present in the saliva of E-cigarette users Reuters Health news in pictures More children are obese and diabetic There has been a 41% increase in children with type 2 diabetes since 2014, the National Paediatric Diabetes Audit has found. Obesity is a leading cause Reuters Health news in pictures Most child antidepressants are ineffective and can lead to suicidal thoughts The majority of antidepressants are ineffective and may be unsafe, for children and teenager with major depression, experts have warned. In what is the most comprehensive comparison of 14 commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs to date, researchers found that only one brand was more effective at relieving symptoms of depression than a placebo. Another popular drug, venlafaxine, was shown increase the risk users engaging in suicidal thoughts and attempts at suicide Getty Health news in pictures Gay, lesbian and bisexual adults at higher risk of heart disease, study claims Researchers at the Baptist Health South Florida Clinic in Miami focused on seven areas of controllable heart health and found these minority groups were particularly likely to be smokers and to have poorly controlled blood sugar iStock Health news in pictures Breakfast cereals targeted at children contain 'steadily high' sugar levels since 1992 despite producer claims A major pressure group has issued a fresh warning about perilously high amounts of sugar in breakfast cereals, specifically those designed for children, and has said that levels have barely been cut at all in the last two and a half decades Getty Health news in pictures Potholes are making us fat, NHS watchdog warns New guidance by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the body which determines what treatment the NHS should fund, said lax road repairs and car-dominated streets were contributing to the obesity epidemic by preventing members of the public from keeping active PA Health news in pictures New menopause drugs offer women relief from 'debilitating' hot flushes A new class of treatments for women going through the menopause is able to reduce numbers of debilitating hot flushes by as much as three quarters in a matter of days, a trial has found. The drug used in the trial belongs to a group known as NKB antagonists (blockers), which were developed as a treatment for schizophrenia but have been sitting on a shelf unused, according to Professor Waljit Dhillo, a professor of endocrinology and metabolism REX Health news in pictures Doctors should prescribe more antidepressants for people with mental health problems, study finds Research from Oxford University found that more than one million extra people suffering from mental health problems would benefit from being prescribed drugs and criticised ideological reasons doctors use to avoid doing so. Getty Health news in pictures Student dies of flu after NHS advice to stay at home and avoid A&E The family of a teenager who died from flu has urged people not to delay going to A&E if they are worried about their symptoms. Melissa Whiteley, an 18-year-old engineering student from Hanford in Stoke-on-Trent, fell ill at Christmas and died in hospital a month later. Just Giving Health news in pictures Government to review thousands of harmful vaginal mesh implants The Government has pledged to review tens of thousands of cases where women have been given harmful vaginal mesh implants. Getty Health news in pictures Jeremy Hunt announces 'zero suicides ambition' for the NHS The NHS will be asked to go further to prevent the deaths of patients in its care as part of a zero suicide ambition being launched today Getty Health news in pictures Human trials start with cancer treatment that primes immune system to kill off tumours Human trials have begun with a new cancer therapy that can prime the immune system to eradicate tumours. The treatment, that works similarly to a vaccine, is a combination of two existing drugs, of which tiny amounts are injected into the solid bulk of a tumour. Nephron Health news in pictures Babies' health suffers from being born near fracking sites, finds major study Mothers living within a kilometre of a fracking site were 25 per cent more likely to have a child born at low birth weight, which increase their chances of asthma, ADHD and other issues Getty Health news in pictures NHS reviewing thousands of cervical cancer smear tests after women wrongly given all-clear Thousands of cervical cancer screening results are under review after failings at a laboratory meant some women were incorrectly given the all-clear. A number of women have already been told to contact their doctors following the identification of procedural issues in the service provided by Pathology First Laboratory. Rex Health news in pictures Potential key to halting breast cancer's spread discovered by scientists Most breast cancer patients do not die from their initial tumour, but from secondary malignant growths (metastases), where cancer cells are able to enter the blood and survive to invade new sites. Asparagine, a molecule named after asparagus where it was first identified in high quantities, has now been shown to be an essential ingredient for tumour cells to gain these migratory properties. Getty Health news in pictures NHS nursing vacancies at record high with more than 34,000 roles advertised A record number of nursing and midwifery positions are currently being advertised by the NHS, with more than 34,000 positions currently vacant, according to the latest data. Demand for nurses was 19 per cent higher between July and September 2017 than the same period two years ago. REX Health news in pictures Cannabis extract could provide new class of treatment for psychosis CBD has a broadly opposite effect to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active component in cannabis and the substance that causes paranoia and anxiety. Getty Health news in pictures Over 75,000 sign petition calling for Richard Branson's Virgin Care to hand settlement money back to NHS Mr Bransons company sued the NHS last year after it lost out on an 82m contract to provide childrens health services across Surrey, citing concerns over serious flaws in the way the contract was awarded PA Health news in pictures More than 700 fewer nurses training in England in first year after NHS bursary scrapped The numbers of people accepted to study nursing in England fell 3 per cent in 2017, while the numbers accepted in Wales and Scotland, where the bursaries were kept, increased 8.4 per cent and 8 per cent respectively Getty Health news in pictures Landmark study links Tory austerity to 120,000 deaths The paper found that there were 45,000 more deaths in the first four years of Tory-led efficiencies than would have been expected if funding had stayed at pre-election levels. On this trajectory that could rise to nearly 200,000 excess deaths by the end of 2020, even with the extra funding that has been earmarked for public sector services this year. Reuters Health news in pictures Long commutes carry health risks Hours of commuting may be mind-numbingly dull, but new research shows that it might also be having an adverse effect on both your health and performance at work. Longer commutes also appear to have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, with those commuting longer 33 per cent more likely to suffer from depression Shutterstock Health news in pictures You cannot be fit and fat It is not possible to be overweight and healthy, a major new study has concluded. The study of 3.5 million Britons found that even metabolically healthy obese people are still at a higher risk of heart disease or a stroke than those with a normal weight range Getty Health news in pictures Sleep deprivation When you feel particularly exhausted, it can definitely feel like you are also lacking in brain capacity. Now, a new study has suggested this could be because chronic sleep deprivation can actually cause the brain to eat itself Shutterstock Health news in pictures Exercise classes offering 45 minute naps launch David Lloyd Gyms have launched a new health and fitness class which is essentially a bunch of people taking a nap for 45 minutes. The fitness group was spurred to launch the napercise class after research revealed 86 per cent of parents said they were fatigued. The class is therefore predominantly aimed at parents but you actually do not have to have children to take part Getty Health news in pictures 'Fundamental right to health' to be axed after Brexit, lawyers warn Tobacco and alcohol companies could win more easily in court cases such as the recent battle over plain cigarette packaging if the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is abandoned, a barrister and public health professor have said Getty Health news in pictures 'Thousands dying' due to fear over non-existent statin side-effects A major new study into the side effects of the cholesterol-lowering medicine suggests common symptoms such as muscle pain and weakness are not caused by the drugs themselves Getty Health news in pictures Babies born to fathers aged under 25 have higher risk of autism New research has found that babies born to fathers under the age of 25 or over 51 are at higher risk of developing autism and other social disorders. The study, conducted by the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai, found that these children are actually more advanced than their peers as infants, but then fall behind by the time they hit their teenage years Getty Health news in pictures Cycling to work could halve risk of cancer and heart disease Commuters who swap their car or bus pass for a bike could cut their risk of developing heart disease and cancer by almost half, new research suggests  but campaigners have warned there is still an urgent need to improve road conditions for cyclists. Cycling to work is linked to a lower risk of developing cancer by 45 per cent and cardiovascular disease by 46 per cent, according to a study of a quarter of a million people. Walking to work also brought health benefits, the University of Glasgow researchers found, but not to the same degree as cycling. Getty

Rosanna OConnor, director of drugs, alcohol and tobacco at PHE, said: The rise in alcohol-related hospital admissions is a cause for concern. We support national and local partners to encourage people to drink at levels that reduce their risk of harm.

This includes creating tools such as the One You Days Off app to help people cut down on alcohol, save money and feel healthier.

We are also working with the NHS to deliver programmes which incentivise GPs and hospitals to provide advice to patients on how they can reduce their risk from alcohol, and, of course, the UK Chief Medical Officers guidelines also help adults make informed decisions about their drinking.Charities are reporting more than 1,000 incidents over the protection of children and vulnerable people every year, the UKs regulator has revealed in the wake of the Oxfam scandal.

Priti Patel, the former International Development Secretary, has accused the aid sector of building a culture of denial around exploitation as scrutiny widens to other NGOs.

Oxfam representatives are to meet with the Government for crisis talks today amid threats to withhold funding from the charity over its handling of allegations of sexual misconduct by its staff.

 Penny Mourdant on Oxfam: If moral leadership isn't there then we cannot have you as a partner

The charity has denied attempting to cover up the use of prostitutes by workers in Haiti in 2011 but the Charity Commission said it was not told the full story.

Oxfam reported an internal investigation into misconduct allegations that year but said it related to inappropriate sexual behaviour, bullying, harassment and the intimidation of colleagues.

Michelle Russell, the regulators director of investigations, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: We've made very clear that had the details of what has come out over the last few days been told to us, we would have dealt with this very differently.

We were categorically told there was no abuse of beneficiaries involved in the allegations. Nor were we told that there were issues or possible issues around possible crimes, including those involving minors.

What we did know - and it was made public at the time - is that it resulted in the sacking of several members of staff and resignations. We were assured that Oxfam had investigated it fully.

Asked if the problem of exploitation could be more widespread in the charity sector, Ms Russell said: The charity sector is not immune from these sorts of allegations and incidents happening. We have about 1,000 incidents a year reported to us by charities involving safeguarding issues.

What is really important - and perhaps this hasn't happened in the past so much - is that there is a light of transparency and accountability on it.

The watchdogs most recent annual report on tackling abuse and mismanagement report concluded that most charities were doing good work, but things can and do go wrong.

It counts the safeguarding of vulnerable people including children, the elderly and disabled as a key priority and said any failures can amount to mismanagement at the highest level.

In 2016/17, 1,203 serious current or historic safeguarding incidents were reported and hundreds more were found in compliance investigations.

Separate figures on sexual harassment compiled by charities in 2017 showed that Oxfam recorded 87 incidents, Save The Children 31, Christian Aid two, and a small number of cases in the British Red Cross.

Kevin Watkins, chief executive of Save The Children, said problems of predatory men in powerful positions, abusing their authority and their power were experienced by every organisation.

He told the Today programme that all 31 cases made public by the charity related to sexual harassment and had triggered dismissals and police reports.

We take this incredibly seriously, my staff are out there helping children in some of the most dangerous and difficult places in the world, Mr Watkins added. We owe it to them to make sure they are protected.

Andrew MacLeod, the former chief of operations of the UNs Emergency Coordination Centre suggested that paedophiles could be using charities to access children in the developing world.

He said those accused of using prostitutes in Haiti should have faced prosecution in the country if the women involved were adults, and in the UK if they were children.

The impact of sex tourism laws make it unlawful for anybody to have sex with children under the age of 16 anywhere in the world or aid, abet or support that, Mr MacLeod added.

Since 1999 the National Crime Agency, or its precursor, have been warning that predatory paedophiles, as we cracked down in the developed world, are now going to the developing world to get access to children.

Their chosen methodology is through charitypeople need to go to jail.

Penny Mordaunt, the International Development Secretary, said the Oxfam allegations had put its relationship with the Government at risk.

She accused the charity of lying and failing in its moral leadership, adding: I am affording them the opportunity to tell me in person what they did after these events and I'm going to be looking to see if they are displaying the moral leadership that I think they need to now.

If the moral leadership at the top of the organisation is not there then we cannot have you as a partner.

Ms Mordaunt said Oxfam had also categorically stated to her department that beneficiaries were not involved in the misconduct and no harm was done.

Her predecessor, Priti Patel claimed there was a culture of denial about exploitation in the aid sector.

She said she was not aware of allegations within Oxfam, but had raised the issue of abuse involving aid workers in disaster zones with the Department for International Development (DfID) while heading the department.

There has been in my view, not just a cover-up with Oxfam, there is a denial, a culture of denial in the aid sector about the exploitation and sexual abuse that has taken place historically for decades, she told BBC Radio 5 Live's Pienaar's Politics.

Four members of Oxfam staff were dismissed and three, including the country director, resigned before the end of the 2011 investigation.

Representatives said allegations that underage girls may have been involved were not proven and have announced a package of measures to improve safeguarding, including improved recruitment and vetting, a new whistleblowing helpline and a strengthened commitment to report concerns to authorities.

Caroline Thomson, Oxfam's chair of trustees in the UK, said the charity was ashamed of what happened and had made big improvements.

As recent events have shown, sexual abuse is a blight on society and Oxfam is not immune. Indeed, NGOs that work in often fragile and unstable environments can become targets for abusers, she added.

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It is not sufficient to be appalled by the behaviour of our former staff - we must and will learn from it and use it as a spur to improvement.

Additional concerns raised about the recruitment and vetting of staff involved in the scandal were being examined, she added.

Charities have been told they will have funding withdrawn if they fail to comply with authorities over safeguarding issues.British charities are facing a government crackdown to combat the horrific sexual exploitation exposed at Oxfam, amid concerns about a wider culture of abuse.

All British charities working overseas have been ordered to provide absolute assurances that they are protecting vulnerable people and referring complaints to authorities.

Oxfams deputy chief executive resigned during crisis talks with the Government, saying she took full responsibility for the alleged use of prostitutes by senior staff in Haiti.

But aid workers told The Independent sexual misconduct against both locals and staff remains widespread in humanitarian agencies and called for wholesale reforms.

Penny Mordaunt, the International Development Secretary, has written a letter to all UK charities working overseas demanding absolute assurance that the moral leadership, the systems, the culture and the transparency needed to fully protect vulnerable people are in place.

It is not only Oxfam that must improve, she said. My absolute priority is to keep the worlds poorest and most vulnerable people safe from harm. In the 21st century, it is utterly despicable that sexual exploitation and abuse continues to exist in the aid sector.

The Department for International Development (Dfid) has created a new unit dedicated to reviewing safeguarding in the aid sector and stopping criminal and predatory individuals being employed by other charities.

 Penny Mourdant on Oxfam: If moral leadership isn't there then we cannot have you as a partner

A global register of development workers may be established, as the UK, alongside the the United Nations, increases its efforts to combat sexual exploitation and prepares to host a summit on the issue later this month.

Ms Mordaunt said the UK will not work with any organisation that does not live up to the high standards on safeguarding and protection that we require, and told Oxfam that it must demonstrate the moral leadership necessary to address this scandal, rebuild the trust of the British public, their staff and the people they aim to help.

Oxfam made a full and unqualified apology  to me, and to the people of Britain and Haiti  for the appalling behaviour of some of their staff in Haiti in 2011, and for the wider failings of their organisations response to it, said Ms Mordaunt.

They spoke of the deep sense of disgrace and shame that they and their organisation feel about what has happened, and set out the actions they will now take to put things right and prevent such horrific abuses happening in future.

The charity, which received 31.7m in government funding in 2016/17, is passing the details of alleged perpetrators, who are not British, of sexual exploitation in Haiti to their home governments for prospective legal action.

Recommended More than 120 charity workers accused of sexual abuse in the last year

Caroline Thomson, Oxfams chair of trustees, described the talks as challenging but constructive and welcomed Dfids proposals.

We recognise that we have some way to go to persuade her that we have the right moral leadership to be fully entrusted with public money, she added. But we are committed to working to prove we can meet her expectations.

Penny Lawrence, Oxfams deputy chief executive, announced her resignation as discussions continued on Monday.

The charity failed to act on concerns about a man accused of using prostitutes in Haiti and on a previous placement in Chad, she said, adding: As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility.

Penny Lawrence resigned as Oxfams deputy chief executive during talks with the Government (Oxfam/PA) (Charlotte Ball/Oxfam/PA Wire)

I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfams supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us.

Roland van Hauwermeiren was the head of Oxfams mission in the country before becoming the director for Haiti, where prostitutes allegedly visited his villa.

Four members of Oxfam staff were dismissed and three others, including Mr Van Hauwermeiren, resigned before the end of the 2011 investigation.

But the disgraced manager went on to work in Bangladesh for French charity Action Against Hunger, which said Oxfam had not shared the reasons for his resignation.

Aid workers speaking to The Independent said they had heard of similar behaviour across Africa and Asia, including senior male managers paying local women as prostitutes or meeting in sex bars.

A British former UN employee, who has worked for several agencies in the Middle East, said sexual misconduct was definitely widespread.

There are not enough checks and balances within the humanitarian sector, and you hear stories of people who were known for sexual misconduct and abuse still working 20 years later, she added.

Although the publicity around Oxfam could improve practices, she said the threat of donors cutting funding could drive organisations to bury sexual misconduct instead of doing a proper inquiry.

Other aid workers told how sexual harassment within agencies has been carried out with impunity.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. 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PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. 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PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. 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A 27-year-old Canadian aid worker, who has worked across the Middle East and North Africa, said she was slut-shamed after being sexually assaulted by a service user.

I went to the country director and was told I shouldnt have been in that room alone and was asked what I was wearing that day I was reprimanded, she added.

The woman said the charitys European head office said she had a reputation for causing a fuss, adding: It illustrates the culture of impunity.

[The aid sector] is the perfect environment for this kind of thing to thrive because its the most vulnerable, marginalised people, in some of the most dysfunctional legal systems that dont support victims.

Another woman told how she was sexually harassed by a male colleague at an international NGO during training, before being told by a female member of staff that he was often in remote locations, faced high stress and had probably not seen women very often.

There does not seem to be the capacity to deal with sexual assault at my agency or in the sector, she added.

Many cases fall by the wayside or are not reported. Another tactic is just moving the perpetrator to a new country so he is removed from his victim.

The Charity Commission said it was originally told that there had been no abuse of beneficiaries or possible crimes in the Oxfam case, and would have dealt with it very differently if the full story had been known.

The charity sector is not immune from these sorts of allegations and incidents happening, said its director of investigations, Michelle Russell. We have about 1,000 incidents a year reported to us by charities involving safeguarding issues.

The letter from Dfid orders charities to ensure they provide a safe and trusted environment for both staff and beneficiaries, and establish a culture enabling concerns to be reported and properly investigated.A former Soviet dissident accused of downloading child pornography has had the case against him postponed indefinitely because of his ill health.

Vladimir Bukovsky, 75, who was once Communist Russias most widely-known prisoner of conscience, had been due to stand trial at Cambridge Crown Court accused of downloading and possessing indecent images of children.

If he had been convicted, it would have brought shame on a man once regarded by his supporters as a hero whose gigantic moral stature ranked him alongside Alexander Solzhenitsyn in the eyes of the Russian people.

Bukovsky, however, had been due to plead innocent to five charges of making an indecent photograph of a child, five of possession of an indecent photograph of a child, and one count of possessing a prohibited image of a child.

The Independent was told part of his defence would have involved claiming the child abuse images could have been downloaded by Russian hackers loyal to Vladimir Putin, as part of a Kompromat campaign to silence a vocal critic of the Russian president.

Despite living in Cambridge since 1976, Bukovsky had tried to stand in the 2008 Russian presidential election, and in 2015 he told a British inquiry he was pretty sure his friend Alexander Litvinenko had killed in London by a lethal dose of radioactive polonium on orders from the Kremlin.

In the event, however, the trial never happened. Two previous attempts to hear the case had to be abandoned because of a deterioration in the health of Bukovsky, who has serious heart, lung, liver and kidney illnesses.

The third attempt at a trial was abandoned on Monday after both the prosecution and defence agreed that Bukovsky, who did not attend court, was now too ill to give evidence in his defence.

His Honour Judge Gareth Hawkesworth ordered that the prosecution be stayed, stating it could only be reopened if either Cambridge Crown Court or the Court of Appeal agreed that Bukovskys health had recovered enough for a trial to go ahead.

Judge Hawkesworth said: I am quite satisfied, in the light of the continuing deterioration in his health that  When it comes to whether Mr Bukovsky could or should give evidence, he would be placed in a wholly impossible situation. I take the view that it would be wholly unfair to try the man in those circumstances.

The result means that Bukovsky remains an innocent man. It is unclear, however, what the effect will be on his reputation.

When the charges against him were first made public, journalists were briefed that Bukovskys computer had been hacked and the child abuse images downloaded without his knowledge.

Vladimir Bukovsky in 1991: some in Russia viewed him as on a par with Alexander Solzhenitsyn (Alamy)

Bukovsky was backed by statements of support from Litvinenkos widow Marina and Garry Kasparov, the chess world champion turned prominent Putin opponent.

They raised the possibility he had been framed, as did a petition, signed by more than 7,000 former Soviet political prisoners, their relatives and descendants that insisted Bukovsky was a man of gigantic moral stature.

But when the case was opened in December 2016, Cambridge Crown Court heard that when police knocked on Bukovskys door he immediately told the detectives he had the images.

William Carter, prosecuting, told the court: On October 28, 2014, police officers went to his home.

He answered the door. He was immediately arrested on suspicion of downloading and possession of indecent images of children.

Mr Bukovsky responded immediately by saying that he did indeed download movies.

They would be in the computer in his study.

Bukovsky was questioned at Parkside Police Station in Cambridge, and there, Mr Carter said, he revealed his attitude to the abuse images.

In essence, the lawyer told the court, Mr Bukovsky did not see what harm he was doing.

So far as the children were concerned, it looked to him as though they were enjoying themselves.

Mr Carter said Bukovsky told police that he became aware of indecent images of children online in the late 1990s.

The court heard that Bukovsky told police he began his 'research' into the images after a becoming interested in the debate surrounding the issue of censorship on the internet.

His initial curiosity, said Mr Carter, Turned into a hobby rather like stamp collecting.

The jury, however, never got to hear the case for the defence because the trial had to be abandoned on day two after Bukovsky was admitted to hospital with pneumonia.

With the trial now postponed indefinitely, Bukovsky may feel frustrated that he never had the chance to protest his innocence in court. A statement issued on his behalf on Monday accepted he was now too ill to stand trial, but stressed how he had spent three years fighting allegations that he "has always strongly denied."

In an earlier statement, Bukovsky had been emphatic that all that mattered to him, as he prepared to die, was his reputation.

Throughout my life, he wrote, My moral reputation had been spotless.

I dont care about the risk of being sent to prison. I have already spent 12 years in Soviet prisons. I dont expect to live very long, and it makes little difference to me whether I spend the final few weeks of my life in jail.

What is fundamentally important to me is defending my reputation.

If Bukovsky had been able to prove that he was framed by Russian hackers, the irony would have been lost on very few of his supporters.

In 1971 it had been Bukovsky who had revealed to the outside world how an earlier authoritarian Russian government was discrediting its critics into silence.

He smuggled to the West 150 pages of documents showing how the Soviet regime was imprisoning dissidents in psychiatric hospitals, declaring them mentally ill, injecting them with drugs that caused convulsions if they protested, and releasing them only if they renounced all their subversive beliefs.

That was but one of the actions that had made him an inspirational symbol of resistance to Communist Russia.

How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 Show all 10 1 /10 How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 1 SEPTEMBER 1989 EUROPE VOTES WITH ITS FEET How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 10 SEPTEMBER 1989 HUNGARY OPENS THE REFUGEE FLOODGATES How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 12 SEPTEMBER 1989 EAST GERMAN EXODUS SWELLS How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 2 OCTOBER 1989 GERMANY LETS 7,000 TAKE THE TRAIN WEST How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 23 OCTOBER 1989 250,000 MARCH IN LEIPZIG How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 4 NOVEMBER 1989 EAST GERMAN HARDLINERS SACKED How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 6 NOVEMBER 1989 BIGGEST MARCH YET IN LEIPZIG How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 8 NOVEMBER 1989 EAST GERMAN CABINET QUITS How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 9 NOVEMBER 1989 BERLIN WALL BREAKS OPEN How The Independent reported the collapse of Communism across the eastern bloc countries in 1989 11 NOVEMBER 1989 BULLDOZERS MOVE IN TO BREACH BERLIN WALL

Bukovsky marked himself out as a child by resigning from the Soviet youth organisation the Pioneers.

In 1961 He was expelled from Moscow University on the grounds that his personality did not correspond to the character of a Soviet student.

He was arrested in January 1967 for disturbing public order by organising a demonstration in Pushkin Square.

While his co-defendants offered sincere repentance, Bukovsky confronted the judge.

The people on the street will remember that they witnessed a free demonstration, he said. They will remember that this forgotten method of protest still exists. And you, citizen judge, will not forget either this case or us.

Later, you too will think about the people who went out to give public expression to their opinions and whom you tried for doing so.

The speech made its way into the samizdat underground press and into Western newspapers, causing it to be referred to President Leonid Brezhnev and his Politburo.

To keep up appearances, they ordered the publication of a four-paragraph local newspaper story about the trial, describing Bukovsky as a jobless troublemaker who has been warned by the authorities many times for committing anti-social, hooligan actions.

The Soviet regime tried to dismiss him as an anti-social hooligan; the world came to admire him a fearless prisoner of conscience (Alamy)

After another three years in captivity, Bukovsky was released in January 1970, and immediately rejoined the struggle for human rights.

In January 1971 he succeeded in smuggling out the documents that proved what was being done to dissidents in the psychiatric institutions of the Soviet Union.

The West was horrified.

Bukovsky, now 29, was seized by the Communist authorities in March, his arrest being preceded by an article in the newspaper Pravda (Truth) which denounced him as a malicious hooligan engaged in anti-Soviet activities.

Again, at his 1972 trial, he expressed his defiance.

In condemning me, he said, The authorities are pursuing the aim of concealing their own crimesthe psychiatric repression of dissenters.

However long I may have to spend in prison, I will never renounce my beliefs. I will fight for legality and justice.

And I regret only this: that in the short periodone year, two months and three dayswhich I have spent in freedom, I succeeded in doing too little to this end.

True to his word, in Labour Camp No 35, near the Russian city of Perm, Bukovsky co-authored the Manual on Psychiatry for Dissidents, a guide for other activists whom the Communists were trying to declare insane.

By 1976, with Solzhenitsyn now in the West, the New York Times was describing Bukovsky as the most widely-known prisoner of conscience in the Soviet Union.

In December of that year he became one half of a Cold War prisoner swap, exchanged at Zurich airport for Luis Corvalan, the general secretary of the Communist Party of Chile, who had been imprisoned since the 1973 coup that heralded the start of the US-backed Pinochet regime.

Once in the West, Bukovsky was granted an audience with President Jimmy Carter, and became friends with Margaret Thatcher.

But while he continued to criticise Russian governments, he was on occasion unafraid to challenge Western ones.

When George W Bushs government moved towards allowing enhanced interrogation techniques in the War Against Terror, Bukovsky warned of Tortures long shadow, from the perspective of someone who had been on the receiving end of it.

I have seen what happens to a society that becomes enamoured of such methods in its quest for greater security, he wrote. It takes more than words and political compromise to beat back the impulse.

With his eye on Russia, he watched the rise of Vladimir Putin with alarm. In July 2006, with the former KGB defector Oleg Gordievsky, he wrote a letter to the Times, warning that the Russian president had succeeded in passing laws that could be interpreted as allowing the assassination of opponents abroad.

The stage is set, the two dissidents wrote, For any critic of Putin's regime here [in England] to have an appointment with a poison-tipped umbrella.

Four months later, Bukovskys friend Alexander Litvinenko was dead, killed by the 21st Century update of the poison-tipped umbrella: tea laced with radioactive polonium-210.

Still Bukovsky was undeterred. In 2008 he travelled to Moscow, announcing he was going to stand in the presidential elections against Putins preferred candidate Dmitry Medvedev.

The country is restoring elements of communism, he warned. We need a strong opposition otherwise the country may become very dangerous."

The Central Election Commission rejected his application to join the presidential race, citing, (laughably), that he had failed to give sufficient evidence of his (globally renowned) activities as a writer, and, more plausibly, the fact that he had not been resident in Russia since 1976.

In truth, it had all been something of a publicity stunt. Bukovsky knew all along that the commission was almost certain to reject his candidacy, and that he did not have the physical strength for a gruelling election campaign.

His health was now on the downward spiral that would see him unable to stand trial in Cambridge.

In the eyes of the law, Bukovsky will now die an innocent man.

But it is unclear whether the suspicions raised by the child pornography allegations will go away.

Before the case against him was opened, a large crowd of supporters had attended his court appearances. On Monday only two people were in the public gallery.

One was Larissa Fradkin, 68, who had left Russia as a political refugee from Communism in 1973.

Having heard the earlier evidence, she did not accept the idea that Bukovskys case involved Kompramat-style dirty tricks by supporters of Putin.

I dont think the Russian state had anything to do with it, said Ms Fradkin, a Cambridge-based scientist.

She was, however, adamant that any interest Bukovsky might have had in indecent images of children would have been academic, not sexual.

This, she said, was what Bukovsky himself had told her.

Ms Fradkin told The Independent: He said it was for a professional interest. He had in mind to write something about internet security and censorship. He wasnt aware of the law forbidding such downloads.

Ms Fradkin insisted: He is one of the most intelligent people I have ever met, but a lot of very clever people simply dont know certain things that everybody else knows. They can focus very narrowly on what interests them.

I am upset, she added, There will no doubt be questions about his reputation. He has lost a lot of support because people dont understand how he could not know about the law against downloading all these horrible pictures.

But in the Soviet Union, he risked his life, his health to help others. He is a hero.Andrew Marr has caused a stir after he was seen complimenting the International Development Secretary on her performance during an interview on his show.

The BBC journalist was caught on camera signalling a thumbs-up to Penny Mordaunt and whispering that was very good after she responded to a question on his flagship Sunday morning interview programme.

The remark, filmed when Marr thought the cameras had stopped rolling, was met with a backlash, with some viewers accusing him of bias and questioning whether he would respond in a similar fashion to Labour politicians.

Rob Burley, the editor of the Andrew Marr Show, later defended the interviewers conduct, saying he was being polite to the Tory minister because he was an actual human.

Ms Mordaunt was appearing on the show to discuss the sexual misconduct allegations against Oxfam workers. She warned during the interview that Oxfam would be stripped of UK aid money unless it handed over all information about its workers use of prostitutes.

The interview then turned to Brexit, at which point the Cabinet minister said no one thought it was going to be a walk in the park" but insisted she was still chipper about the process.

It was at that point that Marr handed over to Nick Campbell for a preview of the next show and then, apparently thinking he was no longer on screen, gave Ms Mordaunt a thumbs-up and tell her that was very good.

Responding to the remark, Labour supporter Colin Hall tweeted: Would he respond in similar fashion to, say, Diane Abbott or Emily Thornberry? Not a chance.

Another Twitter user wrote: Looked as if he thought the camera and mic had already moved away. Wonder if he gives senior Labour guests that kind of encouragement?

But others implied the criticisms of Marr were going to far, using a sarcastic tone to parody the claims of"BBC bias".

Twitter user David Jones tweeted: "I am absolutely disgusted that Andrew Marr didnt throw a glass of water into Penny Mordaunts face and call her a f***ing shit interviewee and then throw her out of the studio. Typical BBC Bias.

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This is the third challenge Tobias, who has cerebral palsy and autism, has completed, raising more than 150,000 for his school and Sheffield Children Hospitals charity PA UK news in pictures 11 September 2021 British player Emma Raducanu, holds up the US Open championship trophy winning the women's singles final of the US Open in New York AP UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. 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Another wrote: Can't believe Andrew Marr didn't spit in Penny Mordaunt's face then flail her with a cat-o-nine-tails after that interview. Typical #BBCBias.

Mr Burley tweeted in response to the criticism: "I hate to spoil what you see as the final, clinching evidence of a high level conspiracy, but he was just being nice like an actual human as he is to everyone he interviews, regardless of party."

He added: "It's called being polite and human."Time is running out for Britain to explain its vision for Brexit to the rest of the world, the Irish Prime Minister has warned, ahead of a meeting with Theresa May on Monday.

Leo Varadkar called for clarity and urgency from the UK Government as he revealed that his administration still dont know what the British government wants Brexit to mean despite months of negotiations.

Mr Varadkar and Ms May are both travelling to Belfast for discussions focusing on the formation of a power-sharing administration in Northern Ireland. The province has been without a devolved government for months since the last coalition collapsed in acrimony and fresh elections failed to break the deadlock.

Recommended Relations between Britain and the EU sink to a new low in Brexit talks

EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said earlier this year in a meeting with MPs that he believed one of the conditions of a smooth Brexit process was the restoration of a government in NI. The DUP, the largest party in Northern Ireland, was widely seen as a block to a realistic solution for the Irish border after Brexit last year  after which the issue was effectively kicked into the long grass to be dealt with later.

Matters are also complicated on the Conservatives reliance on DUP votes for a majority in the House of Commons, meaning it is likely they could effectively any deal they did not like.

Mr Varadkar told Irish public broadcaster RTE: Time is running out, it is 20 months since [the Brexit] referendum, and we still don't know what the British government wants Brexit to mean.

The UK is due to leave the EU in March 2019. Its a little over a year away and I think we need clarity and urgency from London.

The Taoiseachs warning echoes concerns voiced by other senior European politicians about the clarity of the UKs position. Last week Manfred Weber, a senior ally of Angel Merkel who leads the largest group of MEPs in the European Parliament, the UK needed to come out with concrete proposals very soon and that Ms Mays government had provided no clarification and left the EU with no idea about its vision.

Mr Barnier also said last week it was time for the UK to make a choice.

The British public also echoed the concerns on a poll by BMG for The Independent released on Sunday. 74 per cent of the public said Ms Mays plans for Brexit were unclear, compared to just 17 per cent who said they were clear. A further 9 per cent said they did not know whether the plans were clear or unclear.

The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Show all 8 1 /8 The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Post-Brexit immigration workers sorting radishes on a production line at a farm in Norfolk. One possible post-Brexit immigration scheme could struggle to channel workers towards less attractive roles - while another may heighten the risk of labour exploitation, a new report warns. PA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Customs union A key point in the negotiations remains Britain's access to, or withdrawal from, the EU customs union. Since the referendum there has been hot debate over the meaning of Brexit: would it entail a full withdrawal from the existing agreement, known as hard Brexit, or the soft version in which we would remain part of a common customs area for most goods, as Turkey does? No 10 has so far insisted that Brexit means Brexit and that Britain will be leaving the customs union, but may be inclined to change its position once the potential risks to the UKs economic outlook become clearer. Alamy The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Northern Ireland-Irish border Though progress was made last year, there has still been no solid agreement on whether there should be a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. To ensure borderless travel on the island, the countries must be in regulatory alignment and therefore adhere to the same rules as the customs union. In December, the Conservative Partys coalition partners, the DUP, refused a draft agreement that would place the UK/EU border in the Irish Sea due to its potential to undermine the union. May has promised that would not be the case and has suggested that a specific solution would need to be found. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Transition period Despite protests from a small number of Conservative MPs, the Government and the EU are largely in agreement that a transitional period is needed after Brexit. The talks, however, have reached an impasse. Though May has agreed that the UK will continue to contribute to the EU budget until 2021, the PM wants to be able to select which laws made during this time the UK will have to adhere to. Chief negotiator Michel Barnier has said the UK must adopt all of the laws passed during the transition, without any input from British ministers or MEPs. EPA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Rights of EU citizens living the UK The Prime Minister has promised EU citizens already living in the UK the right to live and work here after Brexit, but the rights of those who arrive after Brexit day remains unclear. May insists that those who arrive during the transition period should not be allowed to stay, whereas the EU believe the cut-off point should be later. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Future trade agreement (with the EU) Despite this being a key issue in negotiations, the Government has yet to lay out exactly what it wants from a trade deal with the EU. Infighting within the Cabinet has prevented a solid position from being reached, with some MPs content that "no deal is better than a bad deal" while others rally behind single market access. The EU has already confirmed that access to the single market would be impossible without the UK remaining in the customs union. Getty The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Future trade agreements (internationally) The Government has already begun trying to woo foreign leaders into prospective trade agreements, with various high profile state visits to China, India and Canada for May, and the now infamous invitation to US President Donald Trump to visit London. However the UK cannot make trade agreements with another country while it is still a member of the EU, and the potential loss of trade with the world's major powers is a source of anxiety for the PM. The EU has said the UK cannot secure trade deals during the transition period. EPA The biggest issues facing UK on leaving EU Financial services Banks in the UK will be hit hard regardless of the Brexit outcome. The EU has refused to give British banks passporting rights to trade within the EU, dashing hopes of a special City deal. However according to new reports Germany has suggested allowing trade on the condition that the UK continues paying into the EU budget even after the transition period. Getty

The delay continues as Downing Street admitted last week that the Cabinet did not discuss Brexit during its weekly meeting, amid divisions in the Conservative party about exactly how hard Brexit should be. The PM ruled out membership of the customs union and single market at the start of the process but the red lines have severely limited the UK's options in its future relationship.

Brussels has given the UK until the next European Council meeting in March to clarify what sort of trading relationship it wants. The return of intensive talks in Brussels last week failed to bear fruit, and relations between Britain and the European Commission negotiators sank to a new low on Friday amid a row about cancelled meetings.RPA to not boycott and attend NA session (video)

Head of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) faction Armen Rustamyan, while speaking about the visit of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs to the region, noted that today the negotiations mostly break Azerbaijan, with its statements. The head of the exit parliamentary faction, Nikol Pashinyan, in his turn, stated that the last NA sittings showed that a dominant power of the authorities will be concentrated on the prime minister, which is dangerous Armenia. As to the February 16 special session, which was dedicated to the increase in the Tax Code, he noted that he does not think that the members of the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) will come to the session but this session is also important as it is the first special session of the parliamentary opposition. When speaking about the meeting with Armen Sarkissian, Mr. Pashinyan noted that Aram Sarkissian and Armen Sarkissian have 20 years of relations and contacts and this has nothing to do with political relations. To the question A1 +, if there was already concern that ,the quorum will not be provided and the meeting will not be held, if the RPA deputies do not appear, whether it was appropriate to hold a discussion in another format, Nikol Pashinyan said that it is the duty of each deputy to be at the NA sitting, and if they organized a discussion in different format, there would be a journalist who would say the opposite, by asking why the NA sitting did not hold.John McDonnell has said he would rather have another general election than a second EU referendum.

The Shadow Chancellor told Peston on Sunday another referendum would cause further divisions and said an election would be a better route.

Mr McDonnells stance is at odds with the Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who has not ruled out calling for a second referendum once the terms of Brexit are known.

Mr Corbyn insisted last month that he was not calling for a new national poll on withdrawal, but sidestepped questions on whether he could change his stance in the future.

However, Mr McDonnell told Peston on Sunday that a second Brexit referendum would divide the country again, adding those divisions are really still there and said he was concerned about prompting right-wing xenophobia. When asked whether Labour would rule out a second referendum, he said: "Wed never turn our back on democratic engagement.

I think better we have a general election. Better we have a general election. On the issue and all the other issues, because you then have a wider debate as well.

Mr Corbyn told Peston last month: We are not supporting or calling for a second referendum. What we have called for is a meaningful vote in Parliament.

Asked about a second referendum on any Brexit deal, Shadow Foreign Secretary Emily Thornberry told BBC1's Andrew Marr Show last month: "If 90 per cent of the population was now saying we must stay in the European Union and we must not leave then that would be a challenge that would be there for all of us who are democrats.

"But, at the moment and as things currently stand, we proceed in good faith, we do as we are instructed and we are leaving the European Union.

"We have said that we must respect the result of the referendum which means that we have to leave, but we have to look after the economy which, in my view, means that we don't go very far."

Earlier on Sunday, Conservative MP Anna Soubry appeared alongside Labours Chuka Umunna on The Andrew Marr Show on the BBC, where she was asked whether there was a majority in the House of Commons to defeat the kind of Brexit the Prime Minister wants.

Ms Soubry replied: If shes not careful, yes.

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It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. PA UK news in pictures 26 July 2021 A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel PA UK news in pictures 25 July 2021 Vehicles drive through deep water on a flooded road in Nine Elms, London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 24 July 2021 Utilities workers inspect a 15x20ft sinkhole on Green Lane, Liverpool, which is suspected to have been caused by ruptured water main PA UK news in pictures 23 July 2021 Children interact with Mega Please Draw Freely by artist Ei Arakawa inside the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern in London, part of UNIQLO Tate Play the gallery's new free programme of art-inspired activities for families PA UK news in pictures 22 July 2021 Festivalgoers in the campsite at the Latitude festival in Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk PA UK news in pictures 21 July 2021 A man walks past an artwork by Will Blood on the end of a property in Bedminster, Bristol, as the 75 murals project reaches the halfway point and various graffiti pieces are sprayed onto walls and buildings across the city over the Summer PA UK news in pictures 20 July 2021 People during morning prayer during Eid ul-Adha, or Festival of Sacrifice, in Southall Park, Uxbridge, London PA

Asked whether she thought Brexit will definitely happen she said: I genuinely dont know what is going to happen.

The Prime Minister will make two key note addresses on Britain's departure from the EU in the coming weeks and prominent Leave campaigners David Davis, Liam Fox and Boris Johnson will also set out their agendas.Oxfams deputy chief executive has quit in the wake of the aid worker sex scandal that is currently threatening the charitys future, saying she was ashamed of what happened.

Penny Lawrence, who was the organisations international programme director at the time allegations were reported, stepped down from her role on Monday adding that she took full responsibility for what happened on her watch.

The resignation came as Penny Mordaunt, the International Development Secretary, held crisis talks with Oxfam chiefs following claims of misconduct by its staff in both Chad and Haiti in 2011.

The charity, which received 31.7m in government funding last year, has denied allegations that it tried to cover up the use of prostitutes by its aid workers in Haiti following the devastating earthquake that hit the region seven years ago.

As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility, Ms Lawrence said in a statement.

She added: Over the last few days we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed to adequately act upon. It is now clear that these allegations - involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad - were raised before he moved to Haiti.

I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfam's supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us.

Charity Commission director of investigations Michelle Russell said the watchdog was not told the full story at the time Oxfam first investigated allegations of misconduct in 2011.

She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: We've made very clear that had the details of what has come out over the last few days been told to us, we would have dealt with this very differently.

We were categorically told there was no abuse of beneficiaries involved in the allegations. Nor were we told that there were issues or possible issues around possible crimes, including those involving minors.

Four members of Oxfam staff were dismissed and three, including the country director, Roland van Hauwermeiren, resigned before the end of the 2011 investigation.

According to The Times, Oxfam knew about concerns over the conduct of Mr van Hauwermeiren and another man when they worked in Chad before they were given senior roles in Haiti.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. PA UK news in pictures 26 July 2021 A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel PA UK news in pictures 25 July 2021 Vehicles drive through deep water on a flooded road in Nine Elms, London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 24 July 2021 Utilities workers inspect a 15x20ft sinkhole on Green Lane, Liverpool, which is suspected to have been caused by ruptured water main PA UK news in pictures 23 July 2021 Children interact with Mega Please Draw Freely by artist Ei Arakawa inside the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern in London, part of UNIQLO Tate Play the gallery's new free programme of art-inspired activities for families PA

On Sunday Ms Mordaunt said the allegations levelled at Oxfam had put its relationship with the Government at risk and accused the charity of failing in its moral leadership.

She said on Monday she would afford Oxfam the opportunity to explain in person the events, adding she will be looking to see if they are displaying the moral leadership that I think they need now.

If the moral leadership at the top of the organisation is not there then we cannot have you as a partner, she added.

It also came as Downing Street refused to say whether it has full confidence in Government officials after a former Cabinet minister claimed they knew about allegations of sex abuse by aid workers.

 Penny Mourdant on Oxfam: If moral leadership isn't there then we cannot have you as a partner

Priti Patel, who was forced to resign from Government last year, said that while she was the International Development Secretary people knew in DfID about wider problems of sex abuse in the aid sector.

Ms Patel said she had not been aware of the despicable and abhorrent allegations about Oxfam but had raised directly concerns about abuse in the sector.

Speaking to Pienaars Politics on BBC Radio 5 Live, Ms Patel added: I had, I had quotes from you know the United Nations reports on the number of people. I think even the secretary general last year said that there were 120 cases involving something like over 300 people - and that was just the tip of the iceberg.

 Andrew Mitchell says Oxfam 'did report the matter to the Department for International Development but he wasn't informed

Asked if there had been a cover-up culture, she replied: Well put it this way. My former department did not raise this issue with me. I raised it with them through my own investigations and my own research.

Asked if Ms May retained full confidence in senior DfID officials, a No 10 spokesman replied: The Prime Minister, of course, has the full confidence in the Secretary of State to lead this department, a department which has already taken action on this issue.Theresa May is due to fly into Northern Ireland on Monday amid growing speculation that a deal to restore the powersharing government is imminent.

The UK Prime Minister will meet with Stormont's main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate.

A Downing Street official said Ms May will take part in a series of meetings at Stormont House and encourage the parties to resolve their differences.

The official added that the PM will make clear that the UK Government remains fully committed to the restoration of powersharing, devolution and the Belfast Agreement.

She is expected to tell the parties that she believes progress has been made in recent days and reiterate that the UK and Irish governments - as part of the three-strand approach set out in the Belfast Agreement - will continue to work with them to see an agreement reached.

According to Downing Street, Ms May will restate her strong belief that a fully functioning executive, empowered to take decisions over local matters, is the best way to serve the interests of the whole community.

She will also tell them that the UK Government is ready to introduce legislation to enable the re-establishment of an executive as soon as possible following an agreement.

While she is in the region, the Prime Minister will also meet staff and management at a major employer to discuss the Government's commitment to back business success and opportunity in Northern Ireland.

The region has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed. However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is close.

On Saturday, Sinn Fein's Northern Ireland leader Michelle O'Neill said talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 11 September 2021 Arsenals Takehiro Tomiyasu attempts to control the ball during the Premier League match at The Emirates Stadium PA UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. PA UK news in pictures 26 July 2021 A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel PA UK news in pictures 25 July 2021 Vehicles drive through deep water on a flooded road in Nine Elms, London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 24 July 2021 Utilities workers inspect a 15x20ft sinkhole on Green Lane, Liverpool, which is suspected to have been caused by ruptured water main PA

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood warned that any deal to restore powersharing must end the cycle of political stand-off between Sinn Fein and the DUP.

Mr Eastwood said it is not enough to simply form a new executive.

"The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off, but very bad at the responsibility of government.

"That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end."

Mr Eastwood added that when powersharing is restored, focus must return immediately to the threat posed by Brexit, the economy and the crises in the health service and school budgets.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a stand-alone piece of legislation to protect speakers - an Irish Language Act - but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.

Press AssociationTheresa May has urged Northern Irelands political leaders to make one final push as she said it is possible to see the power-sharing agreement restored very soon.

It comes after the Prime Minister travelled to Belfast amid mounting speculation that a deal could be on the horizon in Northern Ireland  ending a 13-month political stalemate.

While Ms May said differences remain between the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and Sinn Fein at Stormont, she said: I think there is a basis of an agreement here.

The Prime Minister continued: Its been 13 long months since we last saw devolved government here, and I think we are now at the point where its time for the local elected representatives to find a way to work together and to deal with, to tackle, the many pressing issues facing Northern Ireland.

I believe it should be possible to see an executive up and running very soon.

The executive collapsed in January 2017 following controversy over the DUP leader Arlene Fosters handling of a contentious green energy scheme. Since then, several rounds of talks, aiming to resolve the political crisis, have collapsed.

Recommended May arrives in Northern Ireland for talks with political leaders

Speaking before Ms May, the Irish Prime Minister, Leo Varadkar  who had cancelled previous engagements with the Welsh First Minister to travel to Belfast on Monday  also said we have to be patient, but added he was hopeful for an accommodation between the political parties in Northern Ireland.

And earlier, Ms Foster, who leads the party that is responsible for propping up Ms Mays fragile Government in Westminster, said that, while no deal had been reached, good progress had been made during crunch talks at Stormont.

Good progress has been made and we will continue to work towards more progress, she told reporters, adding that her party wanted to achieve a deal that was good for everyone and that was sustainable in the future.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 13 September 2021 Luke Jerram's 'Museum of the Moon' at Durham Cathedral PA UK news in pictures 12 September 2021 Inspirational young fundraiser Tobias Weller crosses the finish line, near his home in Sheffield, as he completes his latest epic feat where he swam and triked his way to the end of his awesome year-long Ironman Challenge. This is the third challenge Tobias, who has cerebral palsy and autism, has completed, raising more than 150,000 for his school and Sheffield Children Hospitals charity PA UK news in pictures 11 September 2021 British player Emma Raducanu, holds up the US Open championship trophy winning the women's singles final of the US Open in New York AP UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. PA UK news in pictures 26 July 2021 A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel PA

Mary Lou McDonald, the Sinn Fein leader, added that she believed we are close to an agreement, but said the two parties are not exactly there just yet.

But she said: There is nothing insurmountable if there is the political will to reach an agreement.

Before the meeting at Stormont the Prime Minister met aircraft workers at Bombardiers factory in Belfast after the companys trade battle victory in the United States last month.

Bombardiers bitter trade dispute with Boeing had threatened jobs at the Belfast plant after the United States trade authorities sided with the US company and proposed a 292 per cent tariff on the import of its rivals planes into the country.Theresa May is in Northern Ireland for crunch talks with political leaders amid mounting speculation that a deal could be close on restoring the executive, ending a 13-month stalemate.

The executive collapsed in January 2017 following controversy over the handling of a green energy scheme by Arlene Foster  the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) - and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed.

But speculation grew on Monday that a deal could be imminent between Sinn Fein and the DUP after Leo Varadkar, the Irish Taoiseach, also announced he would be travelling to Belfast after cancelling a meeting with the Welsh First Minster on Monday.

And on Saturday, Sinn Feins Stormont leader, Michelle ONeill, said that talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

Arriving on the Stormont estate on Monday, the Prime Minster was welcomed by Karen Bradley, who was recently appointed as Northern Ireland Secretary and is responsible for political stability in he region.

A Downing Street official added that the Prime Minister will make clear later today that the Government remains fully committed to the restoration of power-sharing, devolution and the Belfast Agreement.

Ms May is expected to tell the parties that she believes progress has been made in recent days and reiterate that the UK and Irish governments - as part of the three-strand approach set out in the Belfast Agreement - will continue to work with them to see an agreement reached.

According to Downing Street, Ms May will also restate her strong belief that a fully functioning executive, empowered to take decisions over local matters, is the best way to serve the interests of the whole community.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. PA UK news in pictures 26 July 2021 A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel PA UK news in pictures 25 July 2021 Vehicles drive through deep water on a flooded road in Nine Elms, London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 24 July 2021 Utilities workers inspect a 15x20ft sinkhole on Green Lane, Liverpool, which is suspected to have been caused by ruptured water main PA UK news in pictures 23 July 2021 Children interact with Mega Please Draw Freely by artist Ei Arakawa inside the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern in London, part of UNIQLO Tate Play the gallery's new free programme of art-inspired activities for families PA UK news in pictures 22 July 2021 Festivalgoers in the campsite at the Latitude festival in Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk PA

Before the meeting at Stormont, however, the Prime Minister met aircraft workers at Bombardiers factory in Belfast after the companys trade battle victory in the United States last month.

Bombardier's bitter trade dispute with Boeing had threatened jobs at the Belfast plant after the United States trade authorities sided with the US company and proposed a 292 per cent tariff on the import of its rival's planes into the countryPoachers have killed more than four elephants a day since 2011 in a Mozambique nature reserve, cutting the population from 12,000 to as few as 1,500, according to a conservation group.

Fauna and Flora International (FFI) said it feared surviving elephants in the Niassa National Reserve may be wiped out if heavily-armed poaching gangs are not shut down.

In the last two months, the group said, up to five per cent of the reserves remaining elephants had been killed for their ivory.

Its chief executive, Mark Rose, said: The value of Niassa as one of the continents last great wildernesses should endure beyond a short-term scramble for ivory and other illicit goods, such as minerals.

Its long-term economic, social and cultural significance cannot be overstated.

The Mozambican government must take immediate action to curb this poaching crisis before it is too late.

Niassa had been home to 70 per cent of Mozambiques elephants, FFI said. The reserve covers more than 16,000 sq mi.

Matt Rice, a conservationist who runs the Chuilexi tourism concession inside Niassi, told The Independent he believed the areas poaching crisis had begun in 2009 and only escalated since then.

Poachers carrying large-calibre hunting rifles and illegal AK-47 assault rifles outgunned the teams trying to disrupt their activities, he said.

We ... can only get access to pump-action shotguns [which are only effective at short range]. We struggle to get licences for shotguns, so many of our scouts are unarmed.

Chuilexi employs some 60 scouts in its conservation effort, which is required by its contract and was a key reason he signed it, Mr Rice said. He added that he believed Mozambique had been identified as a softer target, a country where the law enforcement regime is less robust than elsewhere on the continent.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

Mr Rice said: The consensus is that its largely being driven by Chinese syndicates. This goes hand-in-hand over the last decade with a substantial increase in Chinese investment and Chinese nationals that are living and working in these African countries.

Its fantastic that China are making the moves that they are [against the ivory trade]. However, theres still a burgeoning illegal trade.

The syndicates are also involved in trading the scales of highly endangered pangolins, he said.

At the end of January Hong Kong politicians voted to outlaw the sale of ivory in the region by 2021. Hong Kong is thought to be the worlds biggest retail ivory market.

Mainland China, the biggest source of global ivory demand, banned sales at the start of the year after shutting all carving factories and shops last March.

The World Wildlife Fund called for governments in other Asian countries such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Japan to institute similar bans, saying there was evidence those markets were increasingly catering to Chinese visitors.

China and the UK unveiled a joint effort against illegal wildlife trading during Theresa Mays recent visit and pledged to share expertise in tackling the trade with southern African nations.

Wildlife campaigners believe 30,000 African elephants are killed by poachers every year.

In neighbouring Zimbabwe earlier this month, four elephants died of cyanide poisoning after poachers contaminated their water sources.

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority spokesman Tinashe Farawo said poachers were increasingly turning to poison instead of using noisy rifles as police and park rangers increased joint patrols.

Mr Farawo added that poachers were also injecting cyanide into oranges and pumpkins, which are favourite foods of elephants.

Additional reporting by agenciesDelivered on the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, the Gettysburg Address is known by some as the greatest speech in the world  and one of Abraham Lincoln's defining moments.

Four months earlier, 46,000 soldiers from both sides of the Civil War had been killed or wounded in the Battle of Gettysburg, in Pennsylvania.

The 273 words delivered by Lincoln at the official dedication ceremony for the National Cemetery at the site on November 19, 1863, called upon the fundamental principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Union's ideals  "a government of the people, by the people, for the people".

The speech's legacy and lasting impact has seen American schoolchildren throughout the years taught to recite the historical phrasings, while subsequent presidents are also said to have used the speech as a map for governance in the US.

The exact words Lincoln spoke at the dedication ceremony cannot be verified for certain, although there are five known copies in the former president's handwriting, according to Abraham Lincoln Online.

Of those, the most often reproduced, including on the walls of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, is the Bliss Copy - named after Colonel Alexander Bliss, as seen below...

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate  we can not consecrate  we can not hallow  this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us  that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion  that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain  that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom  and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

Abraham Lincoln

November 19, 1863A couple who sold all of their possessions so they could sail around the world have been left with nothing after their boat sank just two days into their journey.

Tanner Broadwell and Nikki Walsh began their adventure on a 28-foot sailboat last week, setting off from the marina in Tarpon Springs.

Two days later, the emergency services were called to reports of a capsized boat in the Gulf of Mexico near Madeira Beach  about 25 miles down the coast.

While sailing through the popular tourist site, the bottom of their boat struck an unseen object underwater and quickly started to take on water, forcing them to evacuate. They were left with just their two-year-old dog Remy, their social security cards, a mobile phone and some dog food and clothes.

Speaking after the incident, the couple said they had planned to escape modern life on the sailboat after leaving Breckenridge, Colorado, last year.

I sold everything I had to do this, Mr Broadwell told the Tampa Bay Times. I lost everything in a matter of 20 minutes.

Mr Broadwell, 26, is originally from Florida and worked in marketing for timeshares. He met Ms Walsh, 24, in Philadelphia while there for work, but told the newspaper they both got tired of the sales lifestyle, of doing things to make people do the things they dont want to do.

Thats when they hatched the plan to give it all up and sail round the world. For two years they planned and saved, with Mr Broadwell driving for Uber to make extra money. In April 2017 they sold everything they had, including his SUV, and bought the 1969 boat they named Lagniappe (which is Creole for bonus) for $5,000 (3,600), spending the same again to restore it.

Up until that point, the couple had no sailing experience, so they spent the next few months learning from Mr Broadwells father. It was only this month that they decided they were ready, and were given a grand send-off by friends in Tarpon Springs.

Two days later, the Lagniappe had sunk. The boat remains in the water, and the coast guard has told the couple it could cost up to $10,000 to remove and store it. They only have $90.

They may now move in with Mr Broadwells mother and look for work. But they still want to keep their dream alive.

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

Im not going to give up now, Mr Broadwell said. Im going to get another boat down the road.

We cant just give up on our dreams, Ms Walsh said.The first two openly gay US winter Olympians have taken a dig at Vice President Mike Pence over his record on gay rights.

Gus Kenworthy, a freestyle skier, shared a photo of himself planting a kiss on the side of Adam Rippons face and quipped eat your heart out, Pence!

Mr Pence, who is known for his conservative views on marriage equality and LGBT+ rights, has been accused of showing support for the widely discredited practice of gay conversion therapy.

The Opening Ceremony is a wrap and the 2018 Winter Olympic Gaymes are officially under way!" Mr Kenworthy said on Instagram.

Recommended Gay Olympian attacks choice of Mike Pence to lead US delegation

"I feel incredibly honoured to be here in Korea competing for the US and I'm so proud to be representing the LGBT+ community alongside this amazing guy! Eat your heart out, Pence. #TeamUSA #TeamUSGay.

Mr Kenworthy also shared three photos of himself with Mr Rippon on Twitter, saying: "We're here. We're queer. Get used to it.

Mr Rippon, the 2016 US mens figure skating champion, responded to Mr Kenworthy's tweet by saying: "I am 1000 per cent here for this new and beautiful friendship."

"Representing the USA is one of the greatest honours of my life and being able to do it as my authentic self makes it all so much sweeter," Mr Rippon said during an earlier tweet which he ended with a rainbow flag to represent the LGBT+ community.

Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Show all 29 1 /29 Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inauguration - 20 January 2017 US President Donald Trump acknowledges the audience after taking the oath of office as his wife Melania (L) and daughter Tiffany watch during inauguration ceremonies swearing in Trump as the 45th president of the United States on the West Front of the US capital in Washington on 20 January, 2017. Photographer Jim Bourg: "This photo was shot with one of two remote cameras. The cameras were monitored and triggered remotely and the pictures were transmitted to clients worldwide within minutes of being taken." Reuters/Jim Bourg Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Obama farewell address - 10 January 2017 US President Barack Obama wipes away tears as he delivers his farewell address in Chicago on 10 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "In his final days in office, Obama made a visit home to Chicago. As he spoke from the stage to his wife and daughter in the audience, he became emotional when he talked about what they had sacrificed during his time in office. I turned from photographing the Obama women embracing to find him onstage wiping away tears." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inauguration - 20 January 2017 A combination of photos shows the crowds attending the inauguration ceremonies to swear in U.S. President Donald Trump at 12:01pm (left) on January 20, 2017 and President Barack Obama sometime between 12:07pm and 12:26pm on January 20, 2009. Reuters/ Lucas Jackson/Stelios Varias Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Liberty Ball - 20 January 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump attend the Liberty Ball in honour of his inauguration in Washington on 20 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "What I see when I look at this picture is the end of a very long day, not to mention weeks and months of preparation by many photographers, editors and network experts and the beginning of everything since." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception - 22 January 2017 US President Donald Trump greets Director of the FBI James Comey as Director of the Secret Service Joseph Clancy (L), watches during the Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception in the Blue Room of the White House on 22 January, 2017. Photographer Joshua Roberts: "I have covered the White House for 16 years and normally either the President or the pool is in position when an event starts. In this case the President was not where anyone expected him to be. In fact, he was almost blocking the door when the pool came in. We had to scramble to find a position without bumping him or the furniture as he greeted and thanked members of law enforcement for their security efforts during the inauguration. Luckily, he greeted FBI Director James Comey a few seconds after the pool had made its way into the room." Reuters/Joshua Roberts Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Private phone calls to world leaders - 28 January 2017 US President Donald Trump, is joined by his staff, as he speaks by phone with Russia's President Vladimir Putin in the Oval Office on 28 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Very early in the Trump administration, weekends were as busy as weekdays. On Trump's second Saturday the official schedule said he would be making private phone calls to a number of world leaders including Russia's Vladimir Putin. I arrived early and, before sitting down at my desk walked up to Press Secretary Sean Spicer's office. He, too, was just taking his coat off. I gingerly made the suggestion that previous administrations had sometimes allowed photos of such phone calls through the Oval Office windows on the colonnade. To my mild shock, he didn't even think about it twice. "We'll do it!" he said. In truth, I really only expected the Putin call, but we were outside the windows multiple times throughout the day as the calls went on." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Senior advisor Kellyanne Conway - 27 February 2017 Senior advisor Kellyanne Conway (L) attends as US President Donald Trump welcomes the leaders of dozens of historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) in the Oval Office on 27 February, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "We're often asked how much access we have to the Trump administration, and the answer is we have an awful lot. President Trump himself is very comfortable in the spotlight, and his aides are similarly unfazed by cameras. In this instance, senior advisor Kellyanne Conway was so comfortable in our presence she seemed not to consider the optics of kneeling on a Oval Office sofa to take pictures with her phone." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Angela Merkel heads to Washington - 17 March 2017 Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel and US President Donald Trump hold a joint news conference in the East Room of the White House on 17 March, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Chancellor Merkel made one of the earliest important visits of any US allies to meet Trump in his first months in office. When world leaders give joint news conferences they don't always tend to give each other their full attention - but Merkel watched Trump intently at several key moments, and here seemed particularly rapt." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump welcomes truckers to the White House - 23 March 2017 President Trump reacts as he sits on a truck while he welcomes truckers and CEOs to attend a meeting regarding healthcare at the White House on 23 March, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "The White House organised a listening session with truckers and CEO's of major American companies, regarding healthcare reform. An 18-wheeler tow truck was parked on the South Lawn of the White House and as Trump welcomed the truckers someone invited the him to come and sit in the driver's seat. Trump jumped into the cab and started yelling and pretending to drive - creating one of the most memorable pictures of the year. A lesson learned, always be prepared for the unexpected." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Air Force One - 6 April 2017 US President Donald Trump talks to journalists members of the travel pool on board the Air Force One during his trip to Palm Beach, Florida on 6 April, 2017. Carlos Barria: "During the many trips to President Trump's residence in Florida it is usual to see the president coming to the back of the plane to chat with journalists. During one of the trips to the so called 'Winter White House', Trump had a long talk with reporters while the Air Force One entertainment system was playing one of the latest Star Wars movies. As I was listening to Trump talk I was also looking at the movie waiting for a part of the movie to frame the mood of the day. Of the many scenes, I choose the one with Darth Vader." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures 100 Days - 27 April 2017 US President Donald Trump speaks during an interview with Reuters in the Oval Office of the White House on 27 April, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "A day before President Trump's hundred days in office I was part of the team that interviewed the commander-in-chief in the Oval Office. I was only allowed to photograph Trump during the last five minutes of the interview. The time was very tight so I had to move fast as I had pictures in mind that I wanted to shoot. I walked into the Oval Office and saw that the President had printed maps of the country showing areas in red where he won. I raised my hands holding my camera as high as possible to get the best view of the scene using a 16mm wide angle lens." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures 100 Days - 27 April 2017 US President Donald Trump reacts as he arrives at Harrisburg international airport, before attending a rally marking his first 100 days in office in Pennsylvania on 29 April, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "President Trump travelled to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to celebrate his hundred days in office with a victory rally. He was in friendly territory as he won with a big difference over his opponent Hillary Clinton in Pennsylvania, during the November elections. As usual when the commander-in-chief arrives local residents gather to greet him. This time a small group of military personnel attended the arrival. Surrounded by secret service agents Trump walked from the Air Force One and raised his hand in a sign of victory as the crowd cheered him on." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House staffers - 2 May 2017 White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer (L) and White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus watch as US President Donald Trump presents the U.S. Air Force Academy football team with the Commander-in-Chief trophy in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington on 2 May, 2017. Photographer Joshua Roberts: "Covering the White House does not just mean covering the President. White House staffers are an important part of the story and their relationship with the President and each other is an indicator of how things are going in the West Wing. The tendency is to focus exclusively on the President once an event starts but I always try to look around to see how people are reacting as things unfold." Reuters/Joshua Roberts Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Secret Service - 4 May 2017 Secret Service agents use a presidential limousine as cover from spraying water as US President Donald Trump lands via Marine One helicopter in New York on 4 May, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "The best part of any trip to New York City with the sitting US President is the helicopter ride into Manhattan. The ride out at night can be stunning. Here, Secret Service agents protect themselves from the spray from the East River as Trump lands on the helipad." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures NATO Summit - 25 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump wait the arrival of French President Emmanuel Macron (unseen) before a lunch ahead of a NATO Summit in Brussels on 25 May, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "One of the best parts of travelling overseas for White House coverage is the chance to see the U.S. president in different environments and (literally) a different light. Here, Trump and his wife came out of the shadows to greet France's President Macron." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump meets Putin at G20 summit - 7 July 2017 US President Donald Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany on 7 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "On July 7, I witnessed one of the most important meetings of President Trump's first year in office. Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin during a bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Germany. The world's eyes were on these two leaders after speculation about Russian interference during the 2016 US elections. We entered the room for less than two minutes, where I took dozens of pictures. But there was this very interesting moment when Trump extended his hand to Putin for a handshake. Putin paused for a second and looked at Trump's hand. That was the picture that I was looking for, a little moment that seemed to say a lot." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures First lady - 8 July 2017 First lady Melania Trump chats with US President Donald Trump during their return from Germany at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on 8 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "After President Trump's trip to Germany he arrived back at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. First Lady Melania Trump said goodbye to Trump as she was heading off in a different direction that day. While chatting a breeze blew Melania's hair up in the air." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Made in America product showcase - 17 July 2017 Vice President Mike Pence laughs as President Donald Trump holds a baseball bat as they attend a Made in America product showcase event at the White House on 17 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "This summer the White House organized an event to showcase 'Made in America' products. All kinds of exhibitors brought their products as the President and Vice President toured the event. One of the companies was Marucci Sport, a manufacturer of baseball bats based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As Trump approached a table full of baseball bats, photographers at the event, including me, rushed to get a good angle hoping that he would pick up a bat. As we predicted, he did. He took one and joked around as though he was hitting something hard. The only thing closer to him right there, was the media." Reuters Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House staffers - 25 July 2017 Former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski says hello to reporters as he and White House advisors including Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci accompany President Trump for an event celebrating veterans at AMVETS Post 44 in Ohio, July 25, 2017. Jonathan Ernst: "The most visible person in any White House is naturally the President, followed by the press secretary. But there are also the staff who support them. For those of us covering the Trump administration, there seem to be more compelling figures in the West Wing than ever before. It's crucial to know who's who and why they're important. When I raised my camera and back-pedalled ahead of the group to take this image Lewandowski gave me a hello. I liked the photo, but had no idea it would go a little bit viral, especially since Scaramucci, who was the biggest mover and shaker that week, was hidden back in the pack. But I guess the image catches a glimpse of what it's like to be a West Wing staffer on the road." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Campaign rally - 3 August 2017 US President Donald Trump arrives at a rally in West Virginia on 3 August, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "President Trump travelled to Huntington for one of his usual campaign rallies. While members of his family spoke to the crowd he was waiting under a black curtain to be introduced. Suddenly he walked onto the stage, one of the first frames that I took was of his hand. I set my exposure for the light on the stage hoping to create this dark background and it worked." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Staring into the solar eclipse - 21 August 2017 Without his protective glasses on, US President Donald Trump looks up towards the solar eclipse while viewing with his wife Melania and son Barron at the White House on 21 August, 2017. Photographer Kevin Lamarque: "On a day when everyone, and I mean everyone, was told not to look at the eclipse without protective glasses, Trump, President of the United States, couldn't help himself." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Hurricane Harvey - 2 September 2017 US President Donald Trump poses for a photo as he and first lady Melania Trump help volunteers hand out meals during a visit with flood survivors of Hurricane Harvey at a relief centre in Houston, Texas on 2 September, 2017. Photohrapher Kevin Lamarque: "Trump, eager to deliver the image of a hands-on response to Hurricane Harvey, made this visit to a relief centre and obliged this woman with a selfie as Melania continued to work." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House - 15 September 2017 Donald Trump welcomes 11-year-old Frank Giaccio as he cuts the Rose Garden grass at the White House on 15 September. Frank, who wrote a letter to Trump offering to mow the lawn, was invited to work for a day at the White House along the National Park Service staff. Frank was so focused on his task that he did not notice the President arrive to surprise him. He took his father jumping in to grab his attention and point Trump out. Photographer Carlos Barria said: The image of Trump shouting at a kid who is mowing his lawn might have many interpretations in today's politically polarized United States. But for me it was just a kid who loved what he was doing, to the point he almost appeared to ignore the President." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Take a knee - 27 September 2017 A man kneels with a folded U.S. flag as the motorcade of U.S. President Donald Trump passes him after an event at the state fairgrounds in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S., September 27, 2017. In September, soon after Trump had made comments condemning NFL players who kneel during the national anthem, he made a day trip to a rally in Indianapolis. Jonathan Ernst managed to capture a man on one knee with a tri-folded flag and was able to use a portion of the sign on the building he was kneeling in front of to track the man down and tell his story in full. US Army veteran Marvin Boatright wanted to send a message against social injustice. Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Hurricane Maria - 3 October 2017 President Donald Trump throws rolls of paper towels into a crowd of local residents affected by Hurricane Maria as he visits Calgary Chapel in San Juan, Puerto Rico on 3 October, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "During an afternoon visit to Puerto Rico for President Trump to survey damage from Hurricane Maria and greet some of its victims, Trump made a stop at a church where food and supplies were being distributed. Among the items were paper towels and Trump, apparently caught up in the moment, decided to distribute some of the rolls." Reuters Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Jared Kushner - 1 November 2017 White House Senior adviser Jared Kushner sits behind President Trump during a cabinet meeting in Washington on 1 November, 2017. Photographer Kevin Lamarque: "The role of Jared Kushner has gone through a series of changes. He began front and centre as a high profile adviser, but as time has passed and issues surrounding him have surfaced, he has become more of a background figure." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump in China - 9 November 2017 Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping shake hands after making joint statements at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on 9 November, 2017. Photographer Damir Sagolj: "It's one of those "how to make a better or at least different shot when two presidents shake hands several times a day, several days in row". If I'm not mistaken in calculation, presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump shook their hands at least six times in events I covered during Trump's recent visit to China. I would imagine there were some more handshakes I haven't seen but other photographers did. And they all look similar - two big men, smiling and heartily greeting each other until everyone gets their shot. But then there is always something that can make it special - in this case the background made of US and Chinese flags. The first time it didn't work for me. The second time I positioned myself lower and centrally, and used the longest lens I have to capture only hands reaching for a handshake." Reuters/Damir Sagolj Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Air Force One - 10 November 2017 US President Donald Trump boards Air Force One to depart for Vietnam from Beijing Airport in Beijing, China, November 10, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "There is a Reuters photographer in the tight pool covering the US president for every appearance he makes 365 days a year. This was just one of 32 images of mine that were transmitted on the Reuters wire of President Trump visiting China and Vietnam that day. You never know when a sudden interaction, a gust of wind or a unique facial expression will lead to a striking image that grabs peoples' attention." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures ASEAN handshake - 13 November 2017 Donald Trump registers his surprise as he realises other leaders, including Russia's Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte and Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, are crossing their arms for the traditional "ASEAN handshake" as he participates in the opening ceremony of the summit in Manila on 13 November, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Having covered a few ASEAN summits, I knew to expect the ASEAN handshake. Not everyone in the room knew to expect the ASEAN handshake. A lot was written about this unscripted moment, and what deeper meaning it might have. The simple truth is that sometimes in life there are unscripted moments." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst

Mr Kenworthys jibe at Mr Pence comes in the wake of heightened tensions between the Vice President and Olympians over the Republicans perceived prejudice to the gay community.

After Mr Rippon condemned the decision to use Mr Pence to lead the 2018 US Olympic delegation to South Korea in an interview with USA Today, Alyssa Farah, press secretary for the Vice President, denied the allegation Mr Pence supports conversion therapy.

The accusation is totally false with no basis in fact. But despite these misinformed claims, the vice president will be enthusiastically supporting all the US athletes competing next month in Pyeongchang, Ms Farah said in a statement.

Resources should be directed towards those institutions which provide assistance to those seeking to change their sexual behaviour, Mr Pence wrote on his congressional campaign website back in 2000.

Some interpreted the statement as evidence he supported gay conversion therapy, but a spokesperson for Mr Pence told the New York Times in November 2016 that the Indiana-born politician does not support the practice.

While serving as governor of Indiana Mr Pence signed the Religious Freedom Restoration Act that permitted businesses to refuse service to gay and lesbian customers - citing religious freedom. The politician later signed an amendment that prevented the law from being used to discriminate against LGBT+ customers.

Mr Pence, a devout Christian, is known for his anti-abortion views. He has previously vowed to relegate Roe vs Wade - the landmark Supreme Court decision which legalised abortion nationwide in 1973  to the ash heap of history, where it belongs.

Mr Rippon, who came out as gay in late 2015, reportedly turned down a meeting with Mr Pence earlier this week.

Mr Pence hit back by dismissing reports Mr Rippon rejected an invitation to meet him in protest against his position on homosexuality. The Vice President claimed he had never extended an invitation to him and labelled reports fake news.Increased number of children in special schools is beneficial for directors (video)

Anahit Bakhshyan, an education expert and member of the Yelk (Way out) faction, stated that the number of children in special schools has increased in recent years, a result of poverty and emigration. "The increase in their number is beneficial for school principals who receive additional money for each child, and on the other hand, children whose parents who are in poor social conditions attend these special schools for food and clothing." According to Anahit Bakhshyan, the majority of children in special schools do not need special education. Many of them are logical, thought-provoking children and can attend full-time secondary schools. But according to the statistics, there are 128 students in a special school N2 for mentally retarded children, for which the state annually allocates 137 million 459 thousand drams, which means 1 million 73 thousand drams for each child. Meanwhile, in every regular school, for each student, the annual state provides 125-135,000 drams. Anahit Bakhshyan says that by taking a normal child to a special school we destroy his future. She believes that it is a shame that at present there are schools with such titles in Armenia. Anahit Bakhshyan has already raised the issue to the Human Rights Defender and waits for results.Mujey Dumbuya, a 16-year-old Michigan teenager, had been expected to testify at the trial of a habitual offender who is accused of raping her in a school parking lot last summer.

But on 25 January, three days after the 9 April trial date had been set, Mujeys family, who live near Grand Rapids, reported her missing to police. Three days later, her body was found in a wooded area about 50 miles away, according to the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety.

Police in Kalamazoo are investigating the death as a homicide, but have released few details and did not respond to a request for comment on Friday.

Quinn Anthony James, 42, the man accused of sexually assaulting Mujey in July 2017, had been free on bail after his November arrest in the case, according to WOOD-TV, an NBC affiliate in Grand Rapids. He faces four felony counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct with someone 13 to 15 years old. Mujey was 15 at the time of the alleged offences.

On 1 February, James was arrested in Wyoming, Michigan, where he lives, in an unrelated case in which he is also accused of sexual offences against a minor, according to court records. As of Friday, he was being held at the Kent County jail with bail set at $500,000.

Mujey was last seen on the morning of 24 January and Kalamazoo police originally reported Mujey as a possible runaway.

In a statement released to WOOD-TV, Mujeys family said she was a very good student who loved school.

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

According to court documents, the alleged assault against Mujey occurred at Ridge Park Charter Academy, a charter school in Kentwood, Michigan. She attended East Kentwood High School, about 8 miles from Ridge Park. James was employed as a grounds and maintenance crew member with Kentwood Public Schools until late last year, the districts superintendent said in letter to parents on Thursday.

The school district became aware of the alleged assault in mid-November. The district immediately investigated the claim, the letter said, which led to James firing.

The New York TimesMore details have been revealed about the lawsuit brought by the New York Attorney General against the company founded by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein.

Eric Schneiderman said in a statement that the Weinstein Company repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation, and discrimination.

A four-month investigation conducted by Mr Schneidermans office led to several examples of Mr Weinsteins alleged abuse and threatening behaviour.

Recommended New York attorney general files lawsuit against the Weinstein company

His lawyer Ben Brafman has said that while the blockbuster producers behaviour was not without fault, no crime was committed.

He told the BBC: At the end of the inquiry it will be clear that Harvey Weinstein promoted more women to key executive positions than any other industry leader and there was zero discrimination at either Miramax or [the Weinstein Company].

The companys board issued a statement saying it was disappointed with the lawsuit. Many of the allegations relating to the board are inaccurate and the board looks forward to bringing the facts to light as part of its ongoing commitment to resolve this difficult situation in the most appropriate way.

The lawsuit said Mr Weinstein reportedly told employees, I will kill you or I will kill your family.

 Rose McGowan: 'everybody knew' in Hollywood of Harvey Weinstein allegations

Weinstein allegedly employed wing women, or female employees of the company who would be required to attend events with him in order to facilitate [his] sexual conquests.

The lawsuit also cited examples of Weinsteins alleged mistreatment of female employees who were menstruating, with suggestions that he required his drivers to keep condoms and erectile dysfunction medicine in vehicles at all times.

It also said that he made quid pro quo offers or demands of sexual favours in exchange for career advancement at [the Weinstein Company], or to avoid adverse employment consequences.

The company itself is also being charged with several counts of mistreatment of employees.

One of the main charges is that the companys executives knew about the several women who made claims about Mr Weinsteins abuse and did nothing.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

Mr Schneidermans office alleges the company effectively monetised his supposed sexual harassment by adding a clause in Mr Weinsteins contract that attached financial penalties for harassment claims rather than simply prohibiting it.

The lawsuit, filed in New York County Supreme Court, was brought on by the attempted $500m sale of the movie studio to a former official of President Barack Obamas administration, Maria Contreras-Sweet.

Mr Weinstein has been accused by several women  including actresses Selma Hayek, Ashley Judd, and Lupita Nyongo, and almost 50 other women  of sexual harassment or abuse. Mr Weinstein has repeatedly said the allegations are false.

Any sale of the company must ensure victims are adequately compensated, employees are protected, and that enablers of sexual misconduct will not be unjustly enriched, Mr Schneiderman tweeted.

The statement said that every New Yorker has a right to a workplace free of sexual harassment, intimidation and fear.

Ms Sweet, who ran the US Small Business Administration from 2014 to 2017, had been in negotiations for several weeks and had promised to set up a majority-female board and set up a fund to assist women who claimed Mr Weinstein sexually harassed them, according to the LA Times.

Mr Weinstein was fired from the company in the wake of the many allegations.

The Weinstein Company may have to file for bankruptcy should the sale not go through.An undocumented father from Mexico who has a five-year-old son with cancer and a pregnant wife is due to be deported.

Jesus Berrones, who lives in Arizona with his wife and five children, was denied an extension to stay in America by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Thursday and is scheduled to be deported on Monday.

The 30-year-old took refuge at the Shadow Rock United Church - a sanctuary church that provides a safe place for undocumented migrants - in Phoenix on Friday.

Mr Berrones plans to remain at the church until he is permitted a stay or finds a legal solution to his deportation. ICE is generally hesitant about entering churches to make immigration arrests.

Recommended Government employee quits rather than help deport immigrants

His son Jayden is so terrified about the prospect of his father being deported that he refuses to leave his side at the church.

According to Mr Berrones, he was once discovered driving without a license. He has been deported twice - in 2006 and 2010 - and every time he came back to the US illegally.

Mr Berrones, who is the familys sole breadwinner, even embarked on the dangerous crossing through the Arizona desert to be close to his wife and five children who are all American citizens.

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

His son got leukaemia in 2016 and is currently in the process of going through chemotherapy. However the medication for his treatment is too toxic for his mother to administer.

"My wife cannot give him the pills because she's pregnant," Mr Berrones told CBS.

Sonia Berrones, his wife, said she is anxious about finding a job so she can subsist. She said: "His kids need him; I need him.

In 2016, ICE gave Mr Berrones a stay of removal due to his sons illness and last year he attempted to again apply to stay with ICE but was informed he was no longer a priority for deportation, according to his wife.

But last month ICE sent Mr Berrones, whose wife says he was brought to the US by his parents in 1989 when he was just a year old, a deportation notice and despite him filing for another stay he was denied.

Mr Berrones fails to meet the requirements of a so-called "Dreamer and he would have to leave America for a decade if he wanted to apply for a green card.

Mr Berrones said: "I don't have DUI. I haven't killed nobody."The Trump administration wants to turn the International Space Station (ISS) into a kind of orbiting real estate venture run not by the government, but by private industry.

The White House plans to stop funding for the station after 2024, ending direct federal support of the orbiting laboratory. But it does not intend to abandon the orbiting laboratory altogether, and is working on a transition plan that could turn the station over to the private sector, according to an internal Nasa document obtained by The Washington Post.

"The decision to end direct federal support for the ISS in 2025 does not imply that the platform itself will be de-orbited at that time - it is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform," the document states. "Nasa will expand international and commercial partnerships over the next seven years in order to ensure continued human access to and presence in low Earth orbit."

In its budget request to be released on Monday, the administration would request $150 million in fiscal year 2019, with more in additional years, "to enable the development and maturation of commercial entities and capabilities which will ensure that commercial successors to the ISS-potentially including elements of the ISS-are operational when they are needed."

The plan to privatise the station is likely to run into a wall of opposition, especially since the United States has spent nearly $100 billion to build and operate it. Last week, Senator Ted Cruz, Republican-Texas, said he hoped recent reports of Nasa's decision to end funding of the station "prove as unfounded as Bigfoot." He said the decision was the result of "numbskulls" at the Office of Management and Budget.

"As a fiscal conservative, you know one of the dumbest things you can to is cancel programmes after billions in investment when there is still serious usable life ahead," he said.

When asked about the possibility of a public-partnership, he said, "I think all of us are open to reasonable proposals that are cost effective and that are utilising the investments we made in a way that maximise their effectiveness."

Nasa is currently studying whether the life of the station could be extended to 2028, or beyond, and he said any decision should hinge on that report.

But some questioned who would want to take over the station.

"The ISS is built for science and human exploration, it's not built for profit-seeking," said Andrew Rush, the chief executive of Made In Space, a company that uses 3-D printing to manufacture objects on the space station.

Frank Slazer, the vice president of space systems for the Aerospace Industries Association, said the plan also could prove sticky with the station's international partners.

"It will be very hard to turn ISS into a truly commercial outpost because of the international agreements that the United States is involved in," he said. "It's inherently always going to be an international construct that requires US government involvement and multi-national cooperation."

Boeing currently operates the station for Nasa, which costs $3 to $4 billion annually. Last month, as reports circulated about Nasa pulling the plug on the station, Mark Mulqueen, Boeing's space station programme manager, said "walking away from the International Space Station now would be a mistake, threatening American leadership and hurting the commercial market as well as the scientific community."

The internal Nasa document has scant details over how the privatisation of the station would work. As it prepares a transition plan, the White House said it "will request market analysis and business plans from the commercial sector and solicit plans from commercial industry."

The transition of the station would mark another bold step for Nasa in turning over access to what's known as low Earth orbit to the private sector so that the space agency could focus its resources on exploring deep space. Under President George W. Bush, Nasa took the first steps to outsource cargo supply flights to the station to SpaceX and Orbital ATK. President Barack Obama extended that model to hire Boeing and SpaceX to fly astronauts there.

Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Show all 29 1 /29 Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inauguration - 20 January 2017 US President Donald Trump acknowledges the audience after taking the oath of office as his wife Melania (L) and daughter Tiffany watch during inauguration ceremonies swearing in Trump as the 45th president of the United States on the West Front of the US capital in Washington on 20 January, 2017. Photographer Jim Bourg: "This photo was shot with one of two remote cameras. The cameras were monitored and triggered remotely and the pictures were transmitted to clients worldwide within minutes of being taken." Reuters/Jim Bourg Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Obama farewell address - 10 January 2017 US President Barack Obama wipes away tears as he delivers his farewell address in Chicago on 10 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "In his final days in office, Obama made a visit home to Chicago. As he spoke from the stage to his wife and daughter in the audience, he became emotional when he talked about what they had sacrificed during his time in office. I turned from photographing the Obama women embracing to find him onstage wiping away tears." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inauguration - 20 January 2017 A combination of photos shows the crowds attending the inauguration ceremonies to swear in U.S. President Donald Trump at 12:01pm (left) on January 20, 2017 and President Barack Obama sometime between 12:07pm and 12:26pm on January 20, 2009. Reuters/ Lucas Jackson/Stelios Varias Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Liberty Ball - 20 January 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump attend the Liberty Ball in honour of his inauguration in Washington on 20 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "What I see when I look at this picture is the end of a very long day, not to mention weeks and months of preparation by many photographers, editors and network experts and the beginning of everything since." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception - 22 January 2017 US President Donald Trump greets Director of the FBI James Comey as Director of the Secret Service Joseph Clancy (L), watches during the Inaugural Law Enforcement Officers and First Responders Reception in the Blue Room of the White House on 22 January, 2017. Photographer Joshua Roberts: "I have covered the White House for 16 years and normally either the President or the pool is in position when an event starts. In this case the President was not where anyone expected him to be. In fact, he was almost blocking the door when the pool came in. We had to scramble to find a position without bumping him or the furniture as he greeted and thanked members of law enforcement for their security efforts during the inauguration. Luckily, he greeted FBI Director James Comey a few seconds after the pool had made its way into the room." Reuters/Joshua Roberts Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Private phone calls to world leaders - 28 January 2017 US President Donald Trump, is joined by his staff, as he speaks by phone with Russia's President Vladimir Putin in the Oval Office on 28 January, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Very early in the Trump administration, weekends were as busy as weekdays. On Trump's second Saturday the official schedule said he would be making private phone calls to a number of world leaders including Russia's Vladimir Putin. I arrived early and, before sitting down at my desk walked up to Press Secretary Sean Spicer's office. He, too, was just taking his coat off. I gingerly made the suggestion that previous administrations had sometimes allowed photos of such phone calls through the Oval Office windows on the colonnade. To my mild shock, he didn't even think about it twice. "We'll do it!" he said. In truth, I really only expected the Putin call, but we were outside the windows multiple times throughout the day as the calls went on." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Senior advisor Kellyanne Conway - 27 February 2017 Senior advisor Kellyanne Conway (L) attends as US President Donald Trump welcomes the leaders of dozens of historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) in the Oval Office on 27 February, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "We're often asked how much access we have to the Trump administration, and the answer is we have an awful lot. President Trump himself is very comfortable in the spotlight, and his aides are similarly unfazed by cameras. In this instance, senior advisor Kellyanne Conway was so comfortable in our presence she seemed not to consider the optics of kneeling on a Oval Office sofa to take pictures with her phone." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Angela Merkel heads to Washington - 17 March 2017 Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel and US President Donald Trump hold a joint news conference in the East Room of the White House on 17 March, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Chancellor Merkel made one of the earliest important visits of any US allies to meet Trump in his first months in office. When world leaders give joint news conferences they don't always tend to give each other their full attention - but Merkel watched Trump intently at several key moments, and here seemed particularly rapt." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump welcomes truckers to the White House - 23 March 2017 President Trump reacts as he sits on a truck while he welcomes truckers and CEOs to attend a meeting regarding healthcare at the White House on 23 March, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "The White House organised a listening session with truckers and CEO's of major American companies, regarding healthcare reform. An 18-wheeler tow truck was parked on the South Lawn of the White House and as Trump welcomed the truckers someone invited the him to come and sit in the driver's seat. Trump jumped into the cab and started yelling and pretending to drive - creating one of the most memorable pictures of the year. A lesson learned, always be prepared for the unexpected." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Air Force One - 6 April 2017 US President Donald Trump talks to journalists members of the travel pool on board the Air Force One during his trip to Palm Beach, Florida on 6 April, 2017. Carlos Barria: "During the many trips to President Trump's residence in Florida it is usual to see the president coming to the back of the plane to chat with journalists. During one of the trips to the so called 'Winter White House', Trump had a long talk with reporters while the Air Force One entertainment system was playing one of the latest Star Wars movies. As I was listening to Trump talk I was also looking at the movie waiting for a part of the movie to frame the mood of the day. Of the many scenes, I choose the one with Darth Vader." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures 100 Days - 27 April 2017 US President Donald Trump speaks during an interview with Reuters in the Oval Office of the White House on 27 April, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "A day before President Trump's hundred days in office I was part of the team that interviewed the commander-in-chief in the Oval Office. I was only allowed to photograph Trump during the last five minutes of the interview. The time was very tight so I had to move fast as I had pictures in mind that I wanted to shoot. I walked into the Oval Office and saw that the President had printed maps of the country showing areas in red where he won. I raised my hands holding my camera as high as possible to get the best view of the scene using a 16mm wide angle lens." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures 100 Days - 27 April 2017 US President Donald Trump reacts as he arrives at Harrisburg international airport, before attending a rally marking his first 100 days in office in Pennsylvania on 29 April, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "President Trump travelled to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to celebrate his hundred days in office with a victory rally. He was in friendly territory as he won with a big difference over his opponent Hillary Clinton in Pennsylvania, during the November elections. As usual when the commander-in-chief arrives local residents gather to greet him. This time a small group of military personnel attended the arrival. Surrounded by secret service agents Trump walked from the Air Force One and raised his hand in a sign of victory as the crowd cheered him on." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House staffers - 2 May 2017 White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer (L) and White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus watch as US President Donald Trump presents the U.S. Air Force Academy football team with the Commander-in-Chief trophy in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington on 2 May, 2017. Photographer Joshua Roberts: "Covering the White House does not just mean covering the President. White House staffers are an important part of the story and their relationship with the President and each other is an indicator of how things are going in the West Wing. The tendency is to focus exclusively on the President once an event starts but I always try to look around to see how people are reacting as things unfold." Reuters/Joshua Roberts Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Secret Service - 4 May 2017 Secret Service agents use a presidential limousine as cover from spraying water as US President Donald Trump lands via Marine One helicopter in New York on 4 May, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "The best part of any trip to New York City with the sitting US President is the helicopter ride into Manhattan. The ride out at night can be stunning. Here, Secret Service agents protect themselves from the spray from the East River as Trump lands on the helipad." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures NATO Summit - 25 May 2017 US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump wait the arrival of French President Emmanuel Macron (unseen) before a lunch ahead of a NATO Summit in Brussels on 25 May, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "One of the best parts of travelling overseas for White House coverage is the chance to see the U.S. president in different environments and (literally) a different light. Here, Trump and his wife came out of the shadows to greet France's President Macron." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump meets Putin at G20 summit - 7 July 2017 US President Donald Trump meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany on 7 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "On July 7, I witnessed one of the most important meetings of President Trump's first year in office. Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin during a bilateral meeting at the G20 summit in Germany. The world's eyes were on these two leaders after speculation about Russian interference during the 2016 US elections. We entered the room for less than two minutes, where I took dozens of pictures. But there was this very interesting moment when Trump extended his hand to Putin for a handshake. Putin paused for a second and looked at Trump's hand. That was the picture that I was looking for, a little moment that seemed to say a lot." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures First lady - 8 July 2017 First lady Melania Trump chats with US President Donald Trump during their return from Germany at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland on 8 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "After President Trump's trip to Germany he arrived back at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. First Lady Melania Trump said goodbye to Trump as she was heading off in a different direction that day. While chatting a breeze blew Melania's hair up in the air." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Made in America product showcase - 17 July 2017 Vice President Mike Pence laughs as President Donald Trump holds a baseball bat as they attend a Made in America product showcase event at the White House on 17 July, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "This summer the White House organized an event to showcase 'Made in America' products. All kinds of exhibitors brought their products as the President and Vice President toured the event. One of the companies was Marucci Sport, a manufacturer of baseball bats based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As Trump approached a table full of baseball bats, photographers at the event, including me, rushed to get a good angle hoping that he would pick up a bat. As we predicted, he did. He took one and joked around as though he was hitting something hard. The only thing closer to him right there, was the media." Reuters Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House staffers - 25 July 2017 Former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski says hello to reporters as he and White House advisors including Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci accompany President Trump for an event celebrating veterans at AMVETS Post 44 in Ohio, July 25, 2017. Jonathan Ernst: "The most visible person in any White House is naturally the President, followed by the press secretary. But there are also the staff who support them. For those of us covering the Trump administration, there seem to be more compelling figures in the West Wing than ever before. It's crucial to know who's who and why they're important. When I raised my camera and back-pedalled ahead of the group to take this image Lewandowski gave me a hello. I liked the photo, but had no idea it would go a little bit viral, especially since Scaramucci, who was the biggest mover and shaker that week, was hidden back in the pack. But I guess the image catches a glimpse of what it's like to be a West Wing staffer on the road." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Campaign rally - 3 August 2017 US President Donald Trump arrives at a rally in West Virginia on 3 August, 2017. Photographer Carlos Barria: "President Trump travelled to Huntington for one of his usual campaign rallies. While members of his family spoke to the crowd he was waiting under a black curtain to be introduced. Suddenly he walked onto the stage, one of the first frames that I took was of his hand. I set my exposure for the light on the stage hoping to create this dark background and it worked." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Staring into the solar eclipse - 21 August 2017 Without his protective glasses on, US President Donald Trump looks up towards the solar eclipse while viewing with his wife Melania and son Barron at the White House on 21 August, 2017. Photographer Kevin Lamarque: "On a day when everyone, and I mean everyone, was told not to look at the eclipse without protective glasses, Trump, President of the United States, couldn't help himself." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Hurricane Harvey - 2 September 2017 US President Donald Trump poses for a photo as he and first lady Melania Trump help volunteers hand out meals during a visit with flood survivors of Hurricane Harvey at a relief centre in Houston, Texas on 2 September, 2017. Photohrapher Kevin Lamarque: "Trump, eager to deliver the image of a hands-on response to Hurricane Harvey, made this visit to a relief centre and obliged this woman with a selfie as Melania continued to work." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures White House - 15 September 2017 Donald Trump welcomes 11-year-old Frank Giaccio as he cuts the Rose Garden grass at the White House on 15 September. Frank, who wrote a letter to Trump offering to mow the lawn, was invited to work for a day at the White House along the National Park Service staff. Frank was so focused on his task that he did not notice the President arrive to surprise him. He took his father jumping in to grab his attention and point Trump out. Photographer Carlos Barria said: The image of Trump shouting at a kid who is mowing his lawn might have many interpretations in today's politically polarized United States. But for me it was just a kid who loved what he was doing, to the point he almost appeared to ignore the President." Reuters/Carlos Barria Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Take a knee - 27 September 2017 A man kneels with a folded U.S. flag as the motorcade of U.S. President Donald Trump passes him after an event at the state fairgrounds in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S., September 27, 2017. In September, soon after Trump had made comments condemning NFL players who kneel during the national anthem, he made a day trip to a rally in Indianapolis. Jonathan Ernst managed to capture a man on one knee with a tri-folded flag and was able to use a portion of the sign on the building he was kneeling in front of to track the man down and tell his story in full. US Army veteran Marvin Boatright wanted to send a message against social injustice. Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Hurricane Maria - 3 October 2017 President Donald Trump throws rolls of paper towels into a crowd of local residents affected by Hurricane Maria as he visits Calgary Chapel in San Juan, Puerto Rico on 3 October, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "During an afternoon visit to Puerto Rico for President Trump to survey damage from Hurricane Maria and greet some of its victims, Trump made a stop at a church where food and supplies were being distributed. Among the items were paper towels and Trump, apparently caught up in the moment, decided to distribute some of the rolls." Reuters Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Jared Kushner - 1 November 2017 White House Senior adviser Jared Kushner sits behind President Trump during a cabinet meeting in Washington on 1 November, 2017. Photographer Kevin Lamarque: "The role of Jared Kushner has gone through a series of changes. He began front and centre as a high profile adviser, but as time has passed and issues surrounding him have surfaced, he has become more of a background figure." Reuters/Kevin Lamarque Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Trump in China - 9 November 2017 Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping shake hands after making joint statements at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on 9 November, 2017. Photographer Damir Sagolj: "It's one of those "how to make a better or at least different shot when two presidents shake hands several times a day, several days in row". If I'm not mistaken in calculation, presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump shook their hands at least six times in events I covered during Trump's recent visit to China. I would imagine there were some more handshakes I haven't seen but other photographers did. And they all look similar - two big men, smiling and heartily greeting each other until everyone gets their shot. But then there is always something that can make it special - in this case the background made of US and Chinese flags. The first time it didn't work for me. The second time I positioned myself lower and centrally, and used the longest lens I have to capture only hands reaching for a handshake." Reuters/Damir Sagolj Donald Trump's first year: in pictures Air Force One - 10 November 2017 US President Donald Trump boards Air Force One to depart for Vietnam from Beijing Airport in Beijing, China, November 10, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "There is a Reuters photographer in the tight pool covering the US president for every appearance he makes 365 days a year. This was just one of 32 images of mine that were transmitted on the Reuters wire of President Trump visiting China and Vietnam that day. You never know when a sudden interaction, a gust of wind or a unique facial expression will lead to a striking image that grabs peoples' attention." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst Donald Trump's first year: in pictures ASEAN handshake - 13 November 2017 Donald Trump registers his surprise as he realises other leaders, including Russia's Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, Vietnam's Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte and Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, are crossing their arms for the traditional "ASEAN handshake" as he participates in the opening ceremony of the summit in Manila on 13 November, 2017. Photographer Jonathan Ernst: "Having covered a few ASEAN summits, I knew to expect the ASEAN handshake. Not everyone in the room knew to expect the ASEAN handshake. A lot was written about this unscripted moment, and what deeper meaning it might have. The simple truth is that sometimes in life there are unscripted moments." Reuters/Jonathan Ernst

Now, the Trump administration wants to push that public-private partnership even further to encourage "the emergence of an environment in (low-Earth orbit) where Nasa is one of many customers of a non-governmental human space flight managed and operated enterprise, while providing a smooth and uninterrupted transition," the document said.

It didn't immediately propose what private enterprise might do with the station or which companies might take it over.

The Washington PostThe wife of Donald Trump Jr was taken to hospital after the Presidents eldest son was sent a package containing a white powder.

Vanessa Trump opened the letter at around 10am at the couples apartment in the Sutton Place neighbourhood of New York.

NBC said a preliminary investigation suggested the substance sent to the couples home was not hazardous and that Ms Trump, her mother and one other person were taken to hospital as a precautionary measure.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

The package was reportedly addressed to the 40-year-old Mr Trump Jr, who with his brother Eric, has been running the Trump Organisation since their father was elected to the White House.

The Associated Press said, Ms Trump Jr dialled 911 and that she was taken to hospital after coughing and saying she felt nauseous.

The substance had arrived by mail and it was addressed to Donald Trump Jr, said New York Police Department spokesman Carlos Nieves.

The Trump Organisation did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It is unclear what the powder was.

Mr Trump Jr later said on Twitter: Thankful that Vanessa and my children are safe and unharmed after the incredibly scary situation that occurred this morning. Truly disgusting that certain individuals choose to express their opposing views with such disturbing behaviour.

ABC said it was not known if any of the couples five children were at home at the time of the incident. It said the New York Police Department and the Secret Service were investigating the incident.

 Even Fox News commentators can't support Donald Trump Jr

Mr Trump Jr, who married his wife at his fathers Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida in 2005, apparently dropped his Secret Service detail for a period of time last.

He did so because he wanted more privacy, yet the team was reassigned about a week later.

US authorities have been on alert for mail containing white powder since 2001, when envelopes laced with anthrax were sent to media outlets and US lawmakers, killing five people.

President Trump spoke with his daughter-in-law on Monday afternoon, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said, declining further comment on the investigationChinese communities around the world are preparing to launch their new year celebrations, the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar.

Starting from 16 February, the colourful celebrations to welcome in the new year continue for around two weeks.

Here's everything you need to know about the global celebrations:

When is the Chinese New Year?

Recommended What the Year of the Dog actually means for Chinese New Year

On Friday 16 February, China will celebrate the beginning of its New Year. The date changes annually, as it is set by the Chinese lunisolar calendar.

Each Chinese year is given its name from the Chinese zodiac. Just like the western zodiac, it is divided into 12 sections. However, each section is characterised by an animal.

Last year was the year of the rooster. More than one billion people are expected to mark this years celebrations.

This year's turnout is expected to reach one billion AFP/Getty (AFP/Getty Images)

Which zodiac animal is celebrated in 2018?

This years zodiac animal is a dog.

Unlike most of the world, the Chinese zodiac is not based on the stars. Instead, the ancient Chinese religion known as Taoism has influenced the choice of animals, which are said to have arisen as a result of a Chinese fairy tale, linked to the religion.

The 12 zodiac animals are rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.

What do Chinese people do to celebrate the New Year?

People begin preparing for the main celebrations days before the start date. However, official celebrations start on the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month, which for the UK would be 8 February this time around.

Most begin by thoroughly cleaning their house. The process is known as sweeping the dust and is symbolic as it represents putting away old things and leaving the past behind.

Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Show all 17 1 /17 Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year The final day, Day 15, of Chinese New Year sees the Lantern Festival, where red Chinese lanterns are released into the sky AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year A man takes a photo of colorful lights with his smartphone at a lantern fair in Beijing AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Chinese New Year is the longest national holiday in China AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Although China has used the Gregorian calendar since 1912, Chinese New Year is based on the ancient Chinese lunar calendar, falling on the second new moon after winter solstice AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Roughly a sixth of the world will observe Chinese New Year, with celebrations in Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysia AFP/Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year A Chinese family visits a lantern show Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year 2017 is the year of the tenth Chinese zodiac, the rooster REUTERS Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year The year's of the rooster include 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993 and 2005 Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Those born in 1957 or 2017 are fire roosters, and are considered trustworthy, with a strong sense of timekeeping and responsibility at work. Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Fire roosters are recommended to avoid the colour red and their unlucky numbers: one, three and nine. Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Fire roosters are also thought to be talkative, popular in a crowd and loyal Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year The rooster will be followed by the dog in 2018 and the pig in 2019 Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year A family visits a lantern show for the Lantern Festival in Zhangjiakou, China Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year People visit a light show celebrating the festival REUTERS Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Beijing is bidding to host the Winter Olympics Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year A general view of signage Beijing's bid for the Winter Olympics logo during the Chinese Lantern Festival Getty Images Lantern festival marks last day of Chinese New Year Performers put on a show to celebrate the Lantern Festival Getty Images

Once all the cleaning has been finished, people put up red posters with poetic verses on their doors, Chinese New Year pictures on their walls and decorate their homes with red lanterns.

Family events are common. During the evening, many set off fireworks and firecrackers, while hoping to rid themselves of bad luck and to encourage good fortune.

Children commonly receive "luck money", while many put on new clothes and as is the case in most countries, people send Chinese New Year greetings to each other.

Recommended The best ways to celebrate Chinese New Year 2018

Various activities such as beating drums and striking gongs are part of the festive celebrations. Lion and dragon dances are common too.

Are there any special dishes?

Certain foods are eaten during the special period for their symbolic meaning. Lucky food is served during the festive season, which typically lasts for 15-days from 16 February.

The common foods include dumplings, spring rolls, fish and niangao, which is a glutinous rice cake.

Other popular foods include good fortune fruits, longevity noodles and tangyuan  a sweet rice ball.

So, where can you celebrate?

A variety of events will be taking place in London to celebrate the New Year.

The Museum of London Docklands is hosting a special family day, while restaurants and bars in Chinatown have arranged a variety of events.

A dragon parade will take place in Manchester's Albert Square while Glasgow will host a dragon and lion dance in the city's George Square.A Malaysian newspaper has published a list of LGBT characteristics it claims can be used to identify gay people, sparking anger.

Popular Malay language newspaper Sinar Harian reportedly published the list alongside an article describing homosexuality as a problem that was becoming more prevalent in Malaysian society.

Branded clothes, facial hair and tight shirts that reveal a six pack are among the identifiable characteristics of a gay man, according to the newspaper.

The list also said going to the gym, but only to socialise, indicates a man is gay.

Sinar Harian also included a list of characteristics associated with being a lesbian that include liking being alone and hating and antagonising men. They also like hugging and holding hands, according to the bullet-point list.

Discrimination against lesbian and gay people is widespread in Malaysia, where same-sex activity between men is illegal and is punished by whipping and up to 20 years in jail.

A number of Sharia-based laws and regulations also ban same-sex relations for women and men.

Arwind Kumar, a YouTube star and activist, said: Im not sure who wrote this article, but to you, my dear friend, dont try to be God. Take a step back down, have a seat back on your chair...dont do this. There are much more important issues in this country that need to be addressed.

If you really want to educate society then explain to them the traits of a paedophile, a molester, a murderer, a kidnapper, those kinds of people that actually endanger the life of another.

Do not tell them about gays. How the hell does a gay person endanger your life? With an article like this youre only going to take away lives."

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

Activists say intolerance of LGBT people has spiked in recent years in Malaysia, a multi-ethnic southeast Asian country that is majority Muslim.

Last year, Beauty and the Beast was briefly banned after Disney refused to remove a gay moment from the film at the request of Malaysian authorities.Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte last week told soldiers to shoot female rebels in their genitals, the latest in a series of violent, misogynistic remarks.

Addressing a group of former communist rebels on 7 February, Duterte, who served as a city mayor before becoming President, appeared to encourage Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to target women in conflict.

Tell the soldiers. 'There's a new order coming from the mayor. We won't kill you. We will just shoot your vagina,' he said.

If there is no vagina, it would be useless, he continued, appearing to imply that women are useless without their genitals, according to local media reports.

The Presidential Communications Office included the comment in the official transcript from the event, but replaced the word vagina with a dash.

Duterte's presidency has thus far been defined by violence - and often violently misogynistic language.

Since he came to power on a promise to kill all the country's drug users and dealers, thousands of Filipinos have been shot dead, prompting the international criminal court to open a preliminary examination.

Duterte regularly denigrates and threatens women, but when challenged, insists it was all just a joke. Just last week his spokesman, Harry Roque, accused women of overreacting to the President's comments. I mean, that's funny. Come on. Just laugh, he said.

According to the official transcript from the 7 February event, the crowd did, in fact, laugh.

Duterte has made headlines for joking about the rape of a kidnapped Australian, lamenting he hadn't been first, and for telling troops to rape women in conflict. He often shares his unsolicited opinions on the sexual attractiveness of various women, particularly female politicians who question his policies, in an apparent effort to demean, shame and silence them.

As Duterte's translated remarks began to circulate over the weekend, feminist and human writes groups expressed their anger and dismay.

Duterte (sic) latest nasty remark openly encourages violence against women, contributes to the impunity on such, and further confirms himself as the most dangerous macho-fascist in the government right now, said a representative for Gabriela, a feminist organisation, in a statement.

He is pushing the fascist AFP to commit more bloody human rights violations and grave abuses of international humanitarian law, and takes state terrorism against women and the people to a whole new level.

The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte Show all 9 1 /9 The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte On killing drug addicts These sons of whores are destroying our children. I warn you, dont go into that, even if youre a policeman, because I will really kill you. If you know of any addicts, go ahead and kill them yourself as getting their parents to do it would be too painful The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte Message to China I will go there on my own with a Jet Ski, bringing along with me a [Phillipino] flag and a pole, and once I disembark, I will plant the flag on the runway and tell the Chinese authorities, Kill me  AP The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte Christmas message to law-breakers If you do not want to stop, and just continue committing crimes, then this would be your last Merry Christmas AP The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte On sex life I was separated from my wife. Im not impotent. What am I supposed to do? Let this hang forever? When I take Viagra, it stands up AFP/Getty Images The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte On the drugs trade None of my children are into illegal drugs. But my order is, even if it is a member of my family, kill him'" AP The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte Insulting the Pope We were affected by the traffic. It took us five hours. I asked why, they said it was closed. I asked who is coming. They answered, the pope. I wanted to call him: Pope, son of a wh**e, go home. Do not visit us again AFP/Getty Images The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte Joke about rape I saw her face and I thought, 'What a pity... they raped her, they all lined up. I was mad she was raped but she was so beautiful. I thought, the mayor should have been first AFP/Getty The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte Insulting Barack Obama "Mr Obama should be respectful and refrain from throwing questions at me about the killings, or son of a bitch, I will swear at you in that forum" REUTERS The most controversial quotes from Rodrigo Duterte On Abu Sayyaf Islamic militants "If I have to face them, you know I can eat humans. I will really open up your body. Just give me vinegar and salt, and I will eat you. If you annoy me to the fullest... I will eat you alive. Raw" EPA

In a statement, Carlos Conde, a researcher for Human Rights Watch, called it the latest in a series of misogynist, derogatory and demeaning statements he has made about women.

It encourages state forces to commit sexual violence during armed conflict, which is a violation of international humanitarian law, the statement added.

The Washington PostBangladesh has agreed to allow the United Nations to oversee the controversial process of returning Rohingya refugees to Myanmar.

Shahriar Alam, a foreign affairs minister, said the government signed the deal so the country could not be accused of returning anyone from the Muslim minority against their will.

More than 600,000 men, women and children are estimated to have fled from Myanmar to neighbouring Bangladesh following persecution from the Burmese military in their native state of Rakhine, which began in August.

We have repeatedly said this repatriation process is very complex, Mr Alam said, according to the AFP news agency. We want to fill up the [repatriation] forms in their [UN] presence so that no one can say they been forced by someone or sent back against their will.

He said Bangladesh did not want to send back refugees only to have them return, and added: Bangladesh wants to make sure the situation in Myanmar is safe and secure.

 Boris Johnson on Rohingya crisis 'We need to find a political solution'

It comes after Boris Johnson held top level talks with Myanmars de facto leader, Aung San Suu Kyi.

The foreign secretary spoke to Ms Suu Kyi about the Rohingya crisis during a visit to Myanmar.

Mr Johnson said: I spoke to her about my own experience witnessing the terrible conditions of the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, and my deep concern about their future.

I underlined the importance of the Burmese authorities carrying out a full and independent investigation into the violence in Rakhine, and to hold to account those responsible for human rights violations.

Rohingya refugees  in pictures Show all 15 1 /15 Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees  in pictures A young girl and a baby wade through mud after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh from Burma on 10 September Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees walk through a camp in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh after arriving from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures A young Rohingya refugee gathers firewood after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya refugees wait for sacks of rice to be distributed in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees arrive on a boat in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh after crossing from Burma on 8 September Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees react after being re-united with each other after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh on a boat from Burma Getty Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees walk along the remains of a road after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh on a boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees wade through water after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees wade through water after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Myanmar Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Rohingya Muslim refugees stand in the rain after arriving in Whaikhyang, Bangladesh by boat from Burma Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Rohingya refugees  in pictures Indian children hold placards and shout slogans during a protest against the alleged persecution of the Rohingya Muslims in Burma EPA/Raminder Pal Singh Rohingya refugees  in pictures Supporters of the Difa-e-Pakistan Council (DPC), an Islamic organisation, listen to their leaders' speeches against Burma's persecution of Rohingya Muslims, during a demonstration in Karachi Reuters/Akhtar Soomro Rohingya refugees  in pictures Hundreds of Iranians take part in a protest against violence in Myanmar after weekly Friday prayers, in Tehran EPA/Abedin Taherkenareh Rohingya refugees  in pictures Indonesian Muslim activists hold placards and shout slogans during a protest against the alleged persecution of the Rohingya minority in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia EPA/Ali Lutfi Rohingya refugees  in pictures Members of an Islamic organisation shout slogans against the Burma government during a protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh EPA

I underlined the urgency of creating the conditions in Rakhine that could make it a safe place for the Rohingya refugees to return to, free from fear, and in the knowledge that their basic rights will be respected and upheld.

The UK is already a major donor to the humanitarian crisis. We will continue to use all our diplomatic tools and influence on the global stage to find a way to provide a better future for the Rohingya community.

I encouraged her efforts to broker a nationwide peace settlement to put to an end 70 years of conflict in her homeland."A powerful cyclone is tearing into the Pacific island nation of Tonga, sending people fleeing for higher ground after the storm wrought widespread destruction in nearby Samoa.

Residents nailed planks of wood over their windows in an effort to protect their homes against Cyclone Gita, which arrived on Monday evening after forecasters warned of sustained winds of 121 miles per hour.

Tonga has declared a state of emergency, with acting Prime Minister Semisi Sika saying he was satisfied that an emergency is happening or is about to happen.

Recommended Tongan athlete appears topless at Winter Olympics opening ceremony

The storm has strengthened since hitting Samoa and American Samoa last week, where it caused damage to buildings, widespread power outages and flooding.

The Metservice said it expected Cyclone Gita to peak at a Category 4 storm, but other regional meteorological agencies said the storm would reach Category 5, the most severe ranking.

Schools and workplaces in Tonga, which has a population of around 105,000, were closed ahead of the storm.

Donald Trump declared an emergency in American Samoa, a US territory. The declaration allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide equipment and resources to help the 50,000 residents recover.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said her government was on standby and ready to help Tonga. Were waiting to see the impact there and staying in very close contact, she said.

Red Cross Pacific spokeswoman Hanna Butler said the cyclone was incredibly strong and that preparations ahead of the storm would save lives.

Meanwhile, aid agency Care Australia said it was also ready to assist. With a storm this big, we have to prepare for the worst, said emergency response manager Stefan Knollmayer.

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

Where is it going to hit?

Tongan authorities said families in flood-prone areas should move into evacuation centres, while those on higher ground should avoid roads and stay indoors.

Ben Noll, a Meteorologist at New Zealands National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research (NIWA), said it looked as though the centre of Cyclone Gita would travel just south of Tongas southernmost island of Eua. Although the cyclone woudl not officially make landfall, Tonga will remain in the extremely dangerous eye wall for a longer period, he added.

NIWA said after hitting Tonga, the cyclone was expected to head west, travelling close to Fiji between Tuesday and Wednesday, south of Vanuatu between Thursday and Friday and south of the French territory New Caledonia on Friday.

Additional reporting by agenciesActiveness of Armenian-Georgian relations within framework of PACE and OSCE

On February 12, Chairman of the RA NA Standing Committee on Foreign Relations Armen Ashotyan met with Sophie Katsarava, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Georgian Parliament in Tbilisi Members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations of the National Assembly Karen Bekaryan and Ararat Zurabyan also took part in the meeting. The priorities of the bilateral agenda and the possibilities of further strengthening of the ties between the parliaments of Armenia and Georgia were discussed during the meeting. Touching upon the prospects of developing bilateral relations, Armen Ashotyan noted that Armenian-Georgian relations should not depend on relations with third parties. In this context, the activation of cooperation on various international platforms, in particular the activation of cooperation within the framework of the PACE and the OSCe, was highlighted. Armen Ashotyan noted that the Armenian side attaches great importance to the promotion of more cooperation with Georgia at the parliamentary level. The parties have expressed readiness to make the meetings at the commission level more frequent, which will be an impetus for exchange of experiences in a number of key areas, in particular on economic development, reforms aimed at democracy, on issues of Georgia's experience on EU integration.The Ukrainian opposition leader Mikheil Saakashvili has been deported to Poland after he was detained by masked men.

Associates of the former President of Georgia said he was detained by armed men in camouflage at a restaurant in Kiev and quickly driven to the capital city's airport.

Last week, Mr Saakashvili's lawyer said he could face imminent deportation or extradition after he lost a court appeal.

Oleh Slobodyan, a spokesman for the Ukrainian border guards, said on Facebook the agency's personnel had to use force to counter his supporters at the airport.

"This person was on Ukrainian territory illegally and therefore, in compliance with all legal procedures, he was returned to the country from where he arrived," Mr Slobodyan said.

Mr Saakashvili was admitted to Polish territory on a request from Ukrainian immigration authorities, Poland's border guards said in a statement on the agency's web site.

He was admitted to Poland as the spouse of a European Union citizen. Mr Saakashvili's wife is Dutch.

Mikheil Saakashvili, who was President of Georgia from 2004-13, has harshly Petro Poroshenko, the Ukrainian President, for failing to stem the official corruption that has crippled the country (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky)

Mr Saakashvili entered Ukraine last September, despite being stripped of his Ukrainian citizenship in a protracted standoff with authorities in Kiev, whom he accuses of corruption.

A video posted on Mr Saakashvili's official Facebook page showed several men in green military uniform approaching a man lying on the floor of a restaurant.

"Unknown people in masks seized Mikheil Saakashvili and took him away... The kidnappers were in three white minivans," a post on the same page read.

"There's no legal reason for deportation. This is a kidnapping by Ukrainian bandits in order to get rid of a political opponent!" another post said.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

Mr Saakashvili was President of Georgia from 2004-13, left the country when his presidency ended and came to Ukraine as an ally of Petro Poroshenko, after the Euromaidan protests ousted pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych early in 2014.

Mr Poroshenko appointed him governor of the Odessa region, but he resigned from the post in 2016 and harshly criticised the President for failing to stem the official corruption that has crippled the country.

He was stripped of his citizenship last year when he was abroad, but forced his way back into Ukraine in September.

Since then, he has led repeated protests against Mr Poroshenko, who he alleges is corrupt.

There was no immediate sign of public outcry against the latest detention, unlike the street protests which allowed Mr Saakashvili to escape police custody in December - one of the more dramatic twists in his long-running cat-and-mouse game with the Ukrainian authorities.Russian investigators have begun to piece together a picture of Saratov Airlines Flight 703, which crashed on Sunday afternoon with 71 on board.

In a statement released on Monday, Russias Investigative Committee said it had determined important details: the plane was intact as it fell; there was no evidence of a fire; and any explosion happened only after the plane began losing altitude.

This contradicted early claims made by local witnesses to The Independent, who suggested the plane fell apart while still in the air.

 Devastating drone footage released of plane crash site near Moscow, Russia

Emergency teams faced the most difficult of working conditions as they raked over the crash zone, 30 miles southeast of Moscow. Fragments of metal and body parts were buried deep in knee-high snow, and strewn over 30 hectares of fields and woodlands. The rescue workers have thrown everything at the task: snowmobiles, monster trucks, tractors and snow-melting equipment. But it is unlikely they will complete the job for many days.

By Monday evening, both black boxes had been recovered. Their contents were being analysed alongside fuel samples, maintenance records and other readings.

Information already in the public domain raises more questions than answers. According to radar data provided by FlightRadar24, the plane initially gained altitude as normal. Around 1900m above ground, and at a speed of approximately 370mph, something happened. The plane began to fall. It appeared to steady itself, before falling once again. Flight 703 disappeared from radar screens just a few minutes after take-off.

Local media say engine failure, instrument failure, pilot error and ice are considered the most likely cause of the crash. In all cases, they refer to unnamed sources close to the investigation.

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

Several reports suggested the pilot had decided against deicing the plane before take-off. In conditions of light snow, such an operation is not obligatory, but it may have contributed to aerodynamic problems. Non-icing is believed to have caused another crash in 2012, when UTair Flight 120 fell 10 miles after take-off from the Siberian city of Tyumen. Then, only 12 of the 43 people on board survived.

Some of the first versions of the crash have already been rejected. We now know for sure that the pilots neither reported technical problems nor requested an emergency landing  this is clear from air traffic recordings released on the Mash Telegram channel on Sunday night.

We also know that another early report of collision with a postal helicopter is off the mark. Officials in the Emergency Ministry told the Kommersant daily newspaper that no fragments from other aircraft had been found at the site.

Authorities have not yet ruled out terrorism, but unnamed government sources are playing down such a possibility in the Russian press. In the well-regarded RBC news site, an official close to the investigation claimed that the plane engines continued to work right until impact, and the plane crashed with a full petrol tank. Both are inconsistent with an explosion on board.

Regional Russian airlines are known to push safety regulations to their limits. But the airline in question, Russias 19th largest, had a largely unremarkable safety record by local standards.

The aircraft, Ukrainian-designed, Russian-built Antonov 148, was fairly new, and considered safe, according to aviation specialist Vadim Lukashevich. The model had no major incident outside of testing, he said, and was even included in the presidential fleet. That said, previous operators have complained about the aircraft's technical reliability.

Saratov Airlines have temporarily grounded all five remaining An-148 craft from its fleet.

It is unclear what the future holds for the airline. Local government in Orenburg, the destination for Sundays flight, have already handed the Moscow-Orsk route to another provider. Investigators are only beginning their inquiry into negligence against the company.

Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that President Putin had decided to cancel a regional trip, and was receiving regular updates from the investigation.By seven oclock local time, there was no hope of finding survivors, but the recovery effort continued regardless.

A convoy of official vehicles, several miles long, lined the narrow country road heading towards Stepanovskoye village, about 30 south-east of Moscow. Nearer the village itself, tractors, monster trucks and snowmobiles ploughed through the snow-covered fields. It was here that locals found the first fragments of bodies and metal.

Saratov Airlines ill-fated Flight 703 left Moscows Domodedovo airport at 2.21pm local time. It was bound for Orsk, a provincial city on the Kazakhstan border, with a total of 71 people on board. Some time between two and eight minutes after take off, air traffic control lost contact with the crew.

The news broke shortly after 3pm and a range of explanations began to circulate almost immediately.

First, there were reports of a collision with a postal helicopter, franked letters having been found at the scene. This version was quickly denied by the postal service, who said they only use large planes. Flight 703 had simply been carrying a 20kg bag of correspondence. Then, local media suggested that the plane had reported technical problems and had requested an emergency landing at the nearby Zhukovsky airport. This too was denied by the airport and, later, by official investigators.

A short distance away from the crash scene in Stepanovskoye village, locals told The Independent they had heard a loud bang in the moments before the plane fell. Other witnesses reported seeing a flash under the planes wing. There was some confusion as to whether the plane was on fire as it fell  some said yes, others no.

 Emergency services at the scene of a deadly plane crash near Moscow in Russia

Roman Blinok, 45, was at home when he heard the bang. Initially, he feared his roof had fallen in from the snow. But then he realised something more terrible had happened.

The strange thing was there was just one almighty crash, and nothing else, he told The Independent. There was no second thump on the ground and the fragments of the engine I saw were very small. Whatever happened, happened in the air, before it hit the ground.

By evening, emergency workers and the army had cordoned off the crash zone. A police officer, who asked not to be named, said fragments of bodies and metal had been scattered over an area half a kilometre square.

Aviation expert Vadim Lukashevich said there would be a number of possible explanations for the crash. Weather, technical problems, human error and terrorism were all factors that had to be considered, he said.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

We cant be sure until we decipher the black box recordings but weather is unlikely, since conditions were not extreme, and it was a take-off rather than a landing, he said. It is likely to be something else.

 Animation shows moment flight passenger plane with 71 people on board disappears from radar

The Ukrainian-designed An-148 passenger jet was eight years old, reasonably young in aviation terms. While the aircraft model has been criticised for frequent technical issues, Mr Lukashevich said there it was not inherently dangerous. This plane has not been involved in a serious incident outside of testing and so it should not have been an issue, he said.

A spokesman for Saratov Airlines said the plane in question was in good working order and under the control of an experienced pilot. The small regional operator has an unexceptional safety record, with its last major incident in 1991. As per standard procedure, investigators have launched a criminal case into violations of air safety rules.

President Vladimir Putin has ordered a special commission to investigate the crash, his spokesman confirmed.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that Israel will continue its operations across the border in Syria after an F-16 fighter jet was shot down.

The Israeli warplane was hit by Syrian anti-aircraft fire on its return from a bombing raid on Iranian targets in the early hours of Saturday, launched after Israeli military say an Iranian drone penetrated its airspace. Its two crew members survived with non-life-threatening injuries.

In response, Israel launched a second ferocious raid, believed to be its most aggressive in years, which it said hit 12 Iranian and Syrian military sites.

Syrian state media did not immediately disclose any casualties or damage but the UK-based monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that at least six soldiers were killed.

 Israeli fighter jet wreckage burns after being shot down following offensive against Syrian and Iranian targets

Yesterday we landed hard blows on the forces of Iran and Syria. We made unequivocally clear to everyone that our modus operandi has not changed one bit, Mr Netanyahu said during his weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday.

We will continue to do whatever is necessary to protect our sovereignty and our security.

Syrias war is reaching its seventh anniversary  but the weekend of violence and heightened rhetoric from its many international players show that rather than slowing down, it is becoming more complicated than ever.

Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution Show all 10 1 /10 Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution The reconstructed Khaled Bin al-Waleed Mosque is framed by a damaged building, in the old city of Homs AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution Sumaya Bairuty, 38, an English-language teacher who works in the capital Damascus, speaks with The Associated Press while as she walks to her parents house in the war-damaged Bab Dreib neighborhood of Homs AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution Bairuty walks to her parents house AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution A family that returned to live in their apartment inside a heavily damaged building hang their carpets in the sun AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution A car drives through a devastated part of the old city AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution A pigeon keeper watches his pigeons fly from the roof of his home AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution Two people carry goods on a bicycle in the war-damaged neighborhood AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution Children play football in the street AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution It has been almost four years since the last rebels and civilians withdrew from the remaining strongholds in the ancient heart of Homs in Syria AP Inside Syria's obliterated capital of the revolution A man rides his bicycle past a banner showing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad AP

Though formally neutral on Syrias civil war, Israel is believed to have carried out more than 100 strikes to prevent weaponry shipments to Hezbollah, which, along with troops belonging to Shia militias from Iran and Iraq, fights alongside Syrian President Bashar al-Assads troops in the multi-sided conflict.

The Lebanese militant group and its backers in Tehran do not recognise the Jewish state and have sworn its destruction.

As the Syrian conflict has evolved, so too has Irans political influence over the Assad government  a major worry for Israeli officials, who accuse Tehran of trying to set up new missile bases in the country.

 Video alleges to show Turkish helicopter being downed in northern Syria

The downing of the Israeli aircraft has been hailed as a symbolic triumph by forces loyal to the Syrian government.

Hezbollah called the incident the start of a new strategic phrase which would aim to limit Israels air superiority in the region.

Both Russia  which supports the Syrian government  and the US, Israels closest ally, have urged restraint following the weekends violence.

The Eurasia Group, a New York-based political risk consultancy, said in a commentary that in order to reinforce deterrence, Israeli leaders will probably assess they need to show Iran, Hezbollah and Syria they will continue to strike targets despite the risk.

[But] in a fog of war environment, another incident can easily drag the relevant parties toward a regional conflict.The fall of the eastern rebel-held side of Aleppo at the end of 2016 marked a turning point in Syrias civil war, shifting the tide of the conflict in President Bashar al-Assads favour.

With Isiss caliphate dismantled after the battle for Raqqa last year, the other long-standing front in the Syrian theatre also began to wind down.

And yet, on the eve of its seventh anniversary, Syrias war shows no sign of stopping. In some areas it is becoming even more complicated  and deadly. On Monday, the UN said the country is currently experiencing some of the worst fighting of the entire conflict.

Syria today is better described as several intersecting wars, rather than the government-versus-rebels narrative it started out as in 2011. In the last few weeks, the proxy conflicts between Israel and Iran and Turkey and the Kurds have heated up in particular.

Israel vs Iran

Israel lost a fighter jet on 10 February when Syrian anti-aircraft systems shot down an F-16 fighter on its return from a bombing raid.

Though formally neutral on Syrias civil war, Israel is believed to have carried out more than 100 strikes to prevent weaponry shipments to Lebanese militant organisation Hezbollah, which, along with troops belonging to Shia militias from Iran and Iraq, fights alongside Mr Assads troops.

Irans political influence over the Assad government is a major worry for Israel, who accuse Tehran of trying to use Syria as a new military base from which it could attack the Jewish state.

The downing of the jet was seized upon as a symbolic victory by the Assad government and its allies  although Israel responded with its most aggressive bombing attack in years, which reports say killed six regime-allied fighters.

The Eurasia Group, a New York-based political risk consultancy, said on Monday that Israel will probably need to continue to carry out strikes in Syria as a means of deterrence, but added that in a fog of war environment, another incident can easily drag the relevant parties towards a regional conflict.

Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Show all 9 1 /9 Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Smoke billows following a Turkish airstrike on a village in the Afrin district, on 28 January, 2018. Turkey launched operation "Olive Branch" on January 20 against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) militia in Afrin, supporting Syrian opposition fighters with ground troops and air strikes AFP Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Smoke billows from surrounding villages during the Turkish military operation against the Kurdish enclave on 28 January, 2018 AFP/Getty Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Twenty-year old Kifah al-Moussa, a Syrian Arab woman living among the Kurds of Afrin province, was working on a chicken farm in the village of Maryameen when a Turkish aircraft bombed the building at midday on 21 January, wounding her in the chest. When she recovered consciousness, she found eight people from one family lying dead around her Yara Ismail Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Mohamed Hussein, a 58-year-old Kurdish farmer, lies in the Afrin hospital, wounded in the head and eye after his home was bombed by Turkish aircraft on the second night of the attack Yara Ismail Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Syrian Kurds sit on benches overlooking a street in Afrin, on 28 January, 2018. Above is a memorial to martyrs who died in the fight against Isis AFP/Getty Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Smoke is seen rising on the Syrian side of the border, at Hassa, near Hatay, southern Turkey as Turkish jet fighters hit People's Protection Unit (YPG) positions, on 28 January, 2018 AFP/Getty Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures A Turkish made T-155 Firtina (Storm) howitzer is dispatched to the border at Hassa near Hatay, southern Turkey, on 28 January, 2018 AFP/Getty Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures A Turkish soldier waves a flag on Mount Barsaya, northeast of Afrin, on 28 January, 2018 Reuters Turkish attack on Afrin, northern Syria  in pictures Turkey-backed Free Syrian Army fighters are seen in Barsaya mountain, northeast of Afrin, on 28 January, 2018 Reuters

Turkey vs Kurds

Turkey, incensed by renewed US support for Kurdish forces in Syria, last month launched Operation Olive Branch on the Syrian Kurdish enclave of Afrin, opening a new front in the war which has already killed dozens of civilians and fighters on both sides.

The Kurds in the north of the country took advantage of the chaos in Syria after 2011 to create a semi-autonomous state.

Turkey views the Syrian-Kurdish Peoples Protection Units, or the YPG, as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) of south-west Turkey, which is designated as a terrorist organisation by Ankara as well as by the US and EU.

However, the YPG and broader Arab-Kurdish coalition Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have won widespread Western support over the past few years as the most effective ground force against Isis.

The conflict could bring Turkey, a key Nato member, directly into conflict with the US if Turkish-backed forces make good on their threat to move east towards Manbij, where US troops are based.

The new fighting has also pushed the Kurds towards the Assad government, with whom it has at times formed realpolitik military alliances.

Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling Show all 11 1 /11 Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling Karim was injured twice from bombings on Eastern al-Ghouta, rebel-held Douma, Syria. He lost an eye, as well as his mother in the government shellings. EPA Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling Activists worldwide launched a campaign in solidarity with Karim as a symbol for the besiegement of Eastern al-Ghouta AFP/Getty Images Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling After spending 10 days at a hospital Karim Abdul Rahman was discharged to his house, in which another bombing led to a shrapnel to injure his skull. EPA Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling Many people in the rebel-held town of Douma in Syria's besieged eastern Ghouta region, have joined in AFP/Getty Images Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling A manon the street poses covering one eye AFP/Getty Images Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling Karim's aunt has been caring for him EPA Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling Children in Syria have joined in the campaign AFP/Getty Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling A girl poses covering one eye with her hand in the rebel-held town of Douma AFP/Getty Images Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling A man poses covering one eye AFP/Getty Images Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling As part of a campaign in solidarity with a baby boy, Karim, a child poses covering one eye with his hand AFP/Getty Images Syrian solidarity with baby who lost eye during government shelling This combination of pictures shows Syrians covering one eye with their hands in the rebel-held town of Douma AFP/Getty Images

Assad vs Rebels

Turkey, Russia and Iran agreed to create four de-escalation zones in Syria in May 2017 to calm fighting between rebel groups and Syrian government forces.

But in recent weeks Mr Assad has moved decisively to crush two of those areas  Idlib, the last remaining rebel bastion, located in the north-west, and Eastern Ghouta, a besieged rebel-held suburb of Damascus.

With the help of its allies in Russia, Syria has launched a ferocious new wave of bombings in both areas. The violence has been some of the worst of the entire conflict, leaving hundreds dead and first responders struggling to cope.

Syrias opposition is now divided and weak and has lost the full-throated support of the US and Turkey.

While the UN has repeatedly called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, based on past strategy in the war it seems probable the Assad government will push on with the offensives.London City airport is expecting to be open as normal on Tuesday after it was closed throughout Monday. Sixteen thousand passengers booked to fly in and out of on the busiest day of the week have had their flights cancelled as a Second World War bomb is made safe.

The airport adjoins George V Dock, where an unexploded bomb was found early on Sunday morning during work to expand the Docklands hub.

The Metropolitan Police said: Specialist officers and the Royal Navy have attended and confirmed the nature of the device. It is believed to weigh half a ton.

At 10pm on Sunday, a 214-metre exclusion zone was imposed to ensure that the ordnance can be safely dealt with whilst limiting any risk to the public.

Some residents were evacuated, and roads closed. A Royal Navy bomb-disposal team is working to make the device safe.

Robert Sinclair, the airports chief executive, said: The operation is proceeding well and we anticipate it to be completed during the course of this evening. At this stage we fully expect that the airport will be open as normal tomorrow.

Airlines are thought to likely lose more than 1m as a result of the closure.

British Airways said: We are currently expecting to operate our normal schedule tomorrow." However, BA flight 2, due to fly in overnight from New York JFK, has been cancelled because the outbound service did not operate.

CityJet diverted its Dublin services to Southend, while Alitalia operated to and from Stansted.

Closed for business: the Eurocontrol tweet about the closure of London City airport (Eurocontrol)

The airport handled 4.5 million passengers last year, with Amsterdam, Edinburgh and Dublin the most popular destinations.Cities can be inspiring places, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. From merely acting as the backdrop to being a key feature in a love story, here are 10 places that have given birth to some of the worlds most romantic pieces of art, from novels to films, songs to paintings.

New Yorks inimitable skyline (Getty) (Getty Images/iStockphoto/TomasSereda)

The Big Apple is the backdrop to countless books, films and songs. One of the most romantic yet tragic of these is An Affair to Remember. The 1957 romance saw Carrie Grants Nickie Ferrante meet Deborah Kerrs Terry McKay aboard the SS Constitution, whereupon they agree to meet at the Empire State Building in six months time, only for (spoiler alert) McKay to be hit by a car on the way there.

All ends well, of course (this is a Hollywood romance) and the films Empire State Building has been an iconic meeting point for lovers ever since.

The 1953 film Roman Holiday told the story of crown princess Ann (Audrey Hepburn) visiting Rome on a state trip, where she meets an expat reporter (Gregory Peck) oblivious to her royal status.

Hi-jinks ensue, sparks fly and the Italian capital cemented its position thereafter as one of Europes most glamorous cities.

Hollywood sparkle aside, Rome is full of attractions for lovers in search of a romantic spot, from the Trevi Fountain to its picturesque Spanish Steps.

The capital of the Netherlands is undoubtedly romantic, with its pretty bridges, canals and gabled houses. Perhaps this made it the natural backdrop for a couple of star-crossed teenagers to finally embark upon a relationship in John Greens 2012 book The Fault in Our Stars, which was later adapted into a Hollywood film.

The tragic tale follows two American teens, Hazel and Augustus, who have been diagnosed with cancer. The pair fall in love despite their illness, going on their first proper date during a trip to Amsterdam to meet Hazels favourite author.

Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova in Once (Rex) (Samson/Summit/Kobal/REX/Shutterstock)

Dublin, romantic? This is the city of The Commitments, by Roddy Doyle, Ulysses and Conversations with Friends, books youd be hard put to associate closely with swooning couples.

However, its also the location of 2007s Once, written and directed by John Carney. The film features The Frames Glen Hansard as a busker and Marketa Irglova as a Czech immigrant flower seller, whose relationship dances between friendship and romance, with the bittersweet reality it will never happen hanging over them throughout.

Sharp, funny and incredibly sweet, the films main song won an Oscar, and the film itself features excellent views of Dublin city.

Tokyo is the backdrop to Lost in Translation (Getty)

There are many reasons you could claim Lost in Translation is not a romantic film: the fading older actor doing a whisky commercial for the money; the lonely photographers wife lost in a foreign city, unable to speak the language.

But the Scarlett Johansson/Bill Murray comedy-drama was a one-of-a-kind love (or love-lorn) story that delved into the manner in which detachment and feelings of loneliness in a crowded foreign city can stir longing.

The beautiful Scottish capital is the place that bookends the story of Emma and Dexters romance in David Nicholls 2009 novel One Day.

The pair meet as students at Edinburgh University on the last day of term, and climb Arthurs Seat together. The book then documents a day in their lives each year, charting the ebbs and flows of their friendship as they fall in and out of love with one another at different times.

The love story was so popular that it was adapted into a film starring Anne Hathaway in 2011.

Florence is littered with examples of its cultural excellence, from Galleria dellAccademia to the beautiful Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore.

But in (relatively) modern times, the city is often remembered for being the setting for A Room With a View, EM Forsters 1908 novel about young Lucy Honeychurch, which was adapted into a Merchant Ivory film in 1985.

Touring Italy with her cousin and chaperone, Charlotte Bartlett, Lucy falls for George Emerson. The book is as much about independence as it is romance, and features Florences Basilica of Santa Croce and Piazza della Signoria.

London

Londons Soho district (Getty) (Getty Images/iStockphoto/VvoeVale)

Its busy, its rainy and its one of the most romantic cities on the planet if Shane McGowan of The Pogues is to be believed.

Several of the Irish bands best songs focus on the English capital, including Rainy Night in Soho, Misty Morning, Albert Bridge and London Girl; evidence if ever it were needed that despite the queues, delays and prices, the English capital can go toe-to-toe with any city in the world when it comes to romance.

Sunset in Istanbul (Getty) (Getty Images/iStockphoto/xavierarnau)

Like Lost in Translation, Turkish director Ferzan Ozpeteks Hamam explores the transformational power of place. When Italian Francesco heads to Istanbul to sell his late aunt Anitas property, he hopes to be in and out of the Turkish city as quickly as possible, only to be seduced by a derelict Turkish bath which he decides to turn around.

After embarking on a relationship with Mehmet, the son of the family running the property, Francescos life is changed dramatically, as is that of his wife, Marta, who comes to Istanbul hoping for a divorce and quickly finds herself seduced  by the city.

Viennas St Stephen Cathedral (Getty) (Getty Images/iStockphoto/Stellalevi)

The Austrian capitals contribution to the arts stands shoulder to shoulder with most cities around the world, no more so than when it comes to matters of the heart.

Gustav Klimts The Kiss was painted at a time when the painter thought his powers to be on the wane. Reinvigorating his career, it was purchased before it had even been finished.

Despite its simple theme of lovers kissing, it is considered a masterpiece due to its combination of artistic styles and is now housed in Viennas Osterreichische Galerie Belvedere.Virgin Atlantic has changed the name of an in-flight meal after social media backlash from pro-Israel supporters.

The dish  a mix of Maftoul and other couscous, tomatoes and cucumber seasoned with parsley, mint and lemon vinaigrette  was formerly called Palestinian couscous salad on the menu.

However, the name has since been changed to couscous salad after various complaints. Some social media users threatened to boycott the airline, accusing Virgin of being terrorist sympathisers.

Dani Williams tweeted a picture of the menu in December 2017, writing: #virginatlantic this is the menu I received yesterday nothing like some BDS and delusionment with your salad, last time you get my money #TerroristSympathisers.

Anthony Den tweeted: Bearing in mind Jews have lived on the land you say they now occupy for over 3,000 years maybe it should be called Jewish Salad.

Meanwhile, David Garnelas posted a picture of the menu in the Israel Advocacy Movement Facebook group with the caption: VIRGIN ATLANTIC. I thought this was an Israeli salad...obviously Branson showing his true colours...Israelis must boycott Virgin and Israel must ask for an explanation. When I complained the stewardess tried to take back the menu from me.

Despite the fact that the salad features Maftoul, a traditional Palestinian grain made from bulgur and whole wheat flour, Virgin Atlantic has removed the reference in its in-flight menu.

The airline said in a statement: Our customers experience on board is a key focus and we are constantly refreshing our food offerings on our flights. We recently introduced a Maftoul salad on board our flights. It includes a mix of Maftoul and other couscous, complemented by tomatoes and cucumber and seasoned with parsley, mint and lemon vinaigrette.

We were aware that Maftoul is not a widely known ingredient  so the dish was listed as a Palestinian couscous salad, and later as a Couscous salad. Wed like to reassure all customers that our sole intention was to bring new flavours on board, and never to cause offense through the naming or renaming of the dish.

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The dish's name change has caused further controversy, as many people expressed their discomfort with the decision on social media.

You cant get more Palestinian cuisine than maftoul (couscous), national Palestinian dish, tweeted Bassam Mansour. Virgin should not have caved in to falsification of the name of the Palestinian cuisine to please twisted and hate-filled passengers. Virgin is morally culpable.

Lexi Alexander tweeted: No objection to the German chocolate cake though (which I swear is not German at all...unlike Maftoul aka Couscous salad which is super, super Palestinian).I voted to invoke Article 50 last year. I have never felt so uncomfortable going through the voting lobby in the House of Commons, but I did so because I believed Parliament, having determined to hold a referendum and approved the rules under which it was fought, had a duty to exhaust the process and try to deliver Brexit in the form that it was promised to the British people. This was always conditional on Brexit not being substantially or materially different to what the official Leave campaign promised, as I made clear in the House of Commons in 2016.

As we start 2017 and are now halfway through the negotiations, it is clear Brexit cannot be delivered in the form it was sold to the British people. This is not because people were lied to or brainwashed into voting a particular way by right-wing politicians and tabloids. Nor is it because of government incompetence, though undoubtedly incompetence reigns. But the 2016 referendum revolved around hypotheticals  neither side could say with certainty what would happen if the country voted Leave. Two years on, we now know for certain enough about what will happen, which no one could have predicted with certainty before.

There is no doubt that the people have a choice where Brexit is concerned, whatever ministers may claim. I have been told by senior members of EU institutions and senior members of other member state governments that, if necessary, an extension to the Article 50 process would be granted to allow democratic engagement (as Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell put it yesterday) to take place to determine whether to press on with Brexit or to remain in the EU and work within for reform.

The key Vote Leave pledge was, of course, the claim that if we voted to leave the EU, 350m extra per week would be directed to the NHS. Whatever the precise words on the side of Boris Johnsons big red bus, the clear intended message was that if you voted to leave, billions of pounds more would go into the NHS. As many Labour MPs will tell you, this was of primary importance for many Labour voters. But the Government voted against my amendment to the Article 50 Act to ensure this NHS pledge was delivered. It will not materialise. That is because, as the IFS said last month, Brexit has reduced rather than increased the funds available for the NHS and other public services.

 We still don't know what the British government wants from Brexit, Irish PM Leo Varadkar says

We were told before and after the referendum that we would be granted the exact same economic benefits of our current EU membership, which we enjoy through the EUs single market and the customs union, if we leave, because of our EU partners keenness to sell us cars, food and more besides. Again, this is not going to happen. As Michel Barnier, the EUs chief negotiator, made clear at the start of negotiations, it is impossible given the Prime Minister has determined we must leave both entities.

We were also told by Vote Leave we would immediately be able to start negotiating new trade deals with emerging economies and the worlds biggest economies after the 2016 poll. Liam Foxs Department for International Trade has already conceded this will not happen and there is little research to suggest these promised new deals will come close to matching the trading benefits we enjoy as a result of EU membership. Any new deals will also take years to finalise.

Finally, there is no denying that immigration was a massive part of the jigsaw in that 2016 vote. Many thought that a drastic reduction in immigration would ease housing and pressures on public services. There has already been a large fall in the numbers coming here from the EU, though not from the rest of the world. However, there has been no commensurate fall in housing pressures across the country because our housing crisis was created domestically, and with continued nursing shortages in the NHS  including in my part of south London  many now question whether we want to be encouraging EU citizens to leave in such numbers.

The main reason advanced for not holding another referendum is that it would thwart the will of the people. I fail to see how this can be the case if the people are the ones who get the final say  it is not as if there will be somebody standing behind every voter in the polling booth forcing them to vote whichever way.

If you voted to leave in 2016 and that is still your view, you can simply vote the same way again, but just as floating voters change their minds at every general election, voters may have a different view on this occasion. As the leading Brexiteer, now the Brexit Secretary, David Davis famously said: If a democracy cannot change its mind, it ceases to be a democracy. Nigel Farage, Jacob Rees-Mogg and Michael Gove before and after the 2016 referendum have all accepted another referendum may be needed and could be held on our EU membership.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. 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PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. 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The other reason people say we shouldnt have another referendum is because it would be divisive. Here I do have concerns  but we are a country that is already divided on this issue. Ploughing on with Brexit in the way the Tory Government is doing at present  with the huge inevitable fallout to come  will exacerbate those divisions. It has already led to increasing demands for a new Scottish independence referendum and the suggestions of special post-Brexit economic arrangements for Northern Ireland  as the Government scrambles to find a solution to the Irish border issue  is also creating a new set of problems. It has set different parts of the UK against each other, as the other nations of the UK demand the same benefits the Government is considering for Northern Ireland.

The truth is the only the way to safeguard the Good Friday Agreement is for the whole of the UK to stay in the EUs single market and customs union. Not only did the British people not vote to be poorer in 2016, they certainly did not want to jeopardise the settlement in Northern Ireland that brought peace after decades of bloodshed.

Some words of caution for those on my side of this argument. It is misleading to suggest that anyone can #StopBrexit. The only way Brexit will not happen is if a majority of people come to that view, and a majority of MPs in Parliament determine the people should get the final say later this year.

There is no majority in the House of Commons for the UK to leave the customs union and the single market. A majority of MPs are not currently publicly demanding that there be a referendum on the final deal, with many sitting in the soft Brexit space instead  but this is changing, with many privately now coming round to that view.

I want us to remain in the EU to reform the way in which our economy works, to ensure Britain can help shape the big global forces buffeting people around and secure the best future for future generations. If we successfully secure a referendum on the final deal, we cannot present remaining in the EU as a way of continuing with the status quo. We need change but not the kind of change Brexit will bring.

Valentines Day decisions

So its that time of the year again  Valentines Day  on Wednesday. I have to confess that I am not its biggest fan, so much so that when I was single I once organised an anti-Valentines Day bash with a few of my friends. The funny thing was that a lot of couples wanted to come instead of doing the usual romantic meal for two.

Its not that Im not romantic, but that I feel it is much more romantic to do these things in less contrived  and less commercially driven  circumstances. So I am going to cook a nice meal at home for my wife. Given my wife isnt a huge fan of my cooking and my extremely limited culinary repertoire, its a risky move and could go one of two ways but, hey, its the thought that counts, right? Wish me luck!

Chuka Umunna is Labour MP for StreathamThe most charitable thing to do with Oxfam right now is to teach it and its peers a very sharp lesson in accountability. If we want to be sure that the organisation will reform and rebuild itself, and not damage the reputation of aid and development work permanently, then the Government has to cut off its funding. The replacement of deputy chief executive Penny Lawrence with another boss will not guarantee changes in behaviour thousands of miles away.

The Department for International Development, not famed for its toughness, has to make clear that, as a result of the persistent, endemic and institutional failings at Oxfam, the British taxpayer should no longer feel obliged to fund it  and that their money can be channelled elsewhere.

Thus, there should be an immediate announcement that the 32m a year Oxfam currently receives will be wound down in an orderly fashion. In the corporate sector failures on this scale lead to a slump in the share price, closures and redundancies, or even complete corporate collapse. It is how the capitalist system delivers for consumers.

 Oxfam CEO Mark Goldring apologises over Haiti sex scandal

The same should be true of NGOs  they cannot be allowed rewards for failure just because they have a nice image. Oxfam needs to be restructured, at the least, just as some time ago War on Want had to go through a similar process, albeit for very different reasons. It too was a hugely famous charity, but faltered and ended up in administration, having to be relaunched in 1991.

It seems precipitate, even unfair. To a degree it is. Yet we need not wait for some official inquiry or parliamentary report. The matter is too urgent, and the offences too urgent.

Far too many people are looking for reasons not to give to charity or not to support the UK devoting 0.7 per cent of its national income to the worlds poorest people (the UN target). The Oxfam scandals  for there will no doubt be others  offer plenty of excuses for selfishness and meanness. The whole sector is too valuable to muck around. It does indeed help the most vulnerable in the world and, thus, indirectly protect the West itself from the terrorism that often incubates in such places and creates waves of refugees who end up in Calais.

Now the charities need to be helped to reform themselves. Oxfam needs to be made an example of before the damage becomes pervasive and permanent.

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. 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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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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

Today, though, the Secretary of State for International Development, Penny Mordaunt, called in the bosses at Oxfam, gave them a telling off about the Haiti (and other) sex abuse scandals, and, one can assume, pressured Penny Lawrence into quitting. The caravan will move on and nothing much will change.

You need a much stronger culture of responsibility in any organisation  NGO, government body, private company, peacekeeping troops  to control the inevitable clashes that occur when the relatively rich turn up in very poor and devastated environments populated with desperate people  homeless, starving, fleeing natural disasters or war.

It is an old story, to be frank, and the temptations and opportunities for abuse and corruption will always arise. It is a question of discouraging and minimising it, and for that you need the right incentives and disincentives  financial and personal.

The only way to minimise this sort of abuse of power is by the strongest of sanctions against the perpetrators. Oxfam and others must know that their very existence could be jeopardised by the actions of their staff or volunteers; and those individuals must know too that there is no hiding place, no cushy job in some other unsuspecting charity, for them to slip into when the heat gets too much.

There is another question arising from the Oxfam affair, and that is that maybe these agencies are becoming a sort of PFI failure  the worst of all worlds. Oxfam as the Carillion of the aid sector? Sort of, yes.

Should a charity become reliant on public funding, which becomes virtually a guaranteed source of income? The problems with this are obvious. It takes the edge off their fundraising. It erodes the charitys independence and ability to lobby and speak out for change. It effectively part-nationalises organisations that are supposed to be in the private sector, albeit non-profit making; and, conversely, it delegates responsibility for some tasks that might be better kept within Dfid or the host governments of the nations concerned (though that can also be problematic).

More broadly, as at home, there is also a real question about how much should be done by the state rather than by charities. This is essential work to foster economic development, civic society and human rights: should we actually rely on charitable giving for it at all?

Maybe charities are not the answer, except for perhaps emergency food aid. Because the more we think that sorting out the problems of the developing world is the job primarily of NGOs  ie someone else  the less we will consider that it is actually a British national responsibility. When those NGOs become discredited, then the there is no one left to support the most vulnerable. That is the tragedy of Oxfam.

This article was edited at 16:40 to reflect the news that Penny Lawrence had stood down as deputy chief executive of OxfamArsen Artsruni does not come to court (video)

Arsen Artsruni, who was sentenced to life imprisonment on Dro's case, could not even come to the trial on his case. "Studies have shown that he is sick. Investigations are needed and we believe that it will be very difficult to cure that illness in prison's conditions, especillyy when the illness is inclined to become malignant. This is why we think that Arsen should receive his treatment in freedom," said his lawyer Narine Rshtuni. The Appeals Criminal Court was appealing the decision of the independent commission, according to which the release of Arsen Artsruni, who was serving his sentence in Artik penitentiary, was denied. The independent commission argued that he had three penalties, two for a phone, and one for the modem. The trial will continue on February 27. By the way, Arsen Artsruni studied at Urartu University in Faculty of General Psychology in Yerevan with an Excellence Diploma. In 2015, he participated in the international conference in Yerevan, published a scientific article.Washington state Senator Manka Dhingra (pictured) is the first Sikh American woman in the nation to hold a state-level legislative post. Dhingra joined fellow Indian American Parthiv Patel, the first undocumented attorney to be admitted to the New Jersey Bar; and Rep. Grace Meng, vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, for a Feb. 8 press conference about comprehensive immigration reform. (Manka Dhingra/Facebook photo)UMass-Amherst Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy (3rd from left) meeting with UMass Amherst alumnus Harsh Singhania, CEO of the JK Group of Industries in India (2nd from left), and other industry and education leaders Feb. 10 in India. (Twitter photo)West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with the great-grandson of Henry Ford, Alfred Ford, during their visit to ISCKON Temple in West Bengal's Nadia District Feb. 12. Banerjee said she asked Alfred Ford to set up a manufacturing plant in her state. (IANS photo)The FBI and the President  Mutual Manipulation

By James Petras

February 12, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - Few government organizations have been engaged in violation of the US citizens constitutional rights for as long a time and against as many individuals as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Seldom has there been greater collusion in the perpetration of crimes against civil liberties, electoral freedom and free and lawful expression as what has taken place between the FBI and the US Justice Department.



In the past, the FBI and Justice Department secured the enthusiastic support and public acclaim from the conservative members of the US Congress, members of the judiciary at all levels and the mass media. The leading liberal voices, public figures, educators, intellectuals and progressive dissenters opposing the FBI and their witch-hunting tactics were all from the left. Today, the right and the left have changed places: The most powerful voices endorsing the FBI and the Justice Departments fabrications, and abuse of constitutional rights are on the left, the liberal wing of the Democratic Party and famous liberal media corporations and public opinion makers.



The recently published Congressional memo, authored by Congressman Devin Nunes, provides ample proof that the FBI spied on Trump campaign workers with the intent to undermine the Republican candidate and sabotage his bid for the presidency. Private sector investigators, hired by Trumps rival Hillary Clinton and the Democratic National Committee, worked with pro-Clinton operatives within the FBI and Justice Department to violate the national electoral process while flouting rules governing wiretaps on US citizens. This was done with the approval of the sitting Democratic President Barack Obama.



The liberals and Democrats and their allies in the FBI, political police and other elements of the security state apparatus were deeply involved in an attempt to implicate Russian government officials in a plot to manipulate US public opinion on Trumps behalf and corrupt the outcome of the election. However, the FBI, the Justice Department and Special Prosecutor Robert Mueller have produced no evidence of collusion linking the Russian government to a campaign to undermine Hillary Clintons candidacy in favor of Trump. This is despite thousands of interviews and threats of long prison sentences against former Trump campaign advisers. Instead, they focus their attack on Trumps early campaign promise to find common ground in improving economic and diplomatic ties between the US and Russia, especially in confronting jihadi terrorists.



The liberal-progressive FBI cohort turned into rabid Russia-bashers demanding that Trump take a highly aggressive stance against Moscow, while systematically eliminating his military and security advisors who expressed anti-confrontation sentiments. In the spirit of a Joe McCarthy, the liberal-left launched hysterical attacks on any and every Trump campaign adviser who had spoken to, dined with or exchanged eyebrows with any and all Russians!



The conversion of liberalism to the pursuit of political purges is unprecedented. Their collective amnesia about the long-term, large-scale involvement by the FBI in the worst criminal violations of democratic values is reprehensible. The FBIs anti-communist crusade led to the purge of thousands of trade unionists from the mid-1940s onward, decimating the AFL-CIO. They blacklisted actors, screen writers, artists, teachers, university academics, researchers, scientists, journalists and civil rights leaders as part of their sweeping purge of civil society.



The FBI investigated the private lives of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X, even threatening their family members. They illegally spied on and infiltrated civil liberties organizations, and used provocateurs and spies in anti-war groups. Individuals lives were destroyed, some were driven to suicide; important popular American organizations were undermined to the detriment of millions. This has been its focus since its beginning and continues with the current fabrication of anti-Russian propaganda and investigations.



President Trump: Victim and Executor

President Trump has pursued an agenda mirroring the police state operations of the FBI  only on a global scale. Trumps violation of international law includes collaboration and support for Saudi Arabias tyrannical invasion and destruction of the sovereign nation of Yemen; intensified aid and support for Israels ethnic war against the Palestinian people; severe sanctions and threatened nuclear first-strike against North Korea (DPRK); increased deployment of US special forces in collaboration with the jihadi terrorist war to overthrow the legitimate government of Syria; coup-mongering, sabotage, sanctions and economic blockade of Venezuela; NATO missile and nuclear encirclement of Russia; and the growing naval threats against China.

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Domestically, Trumps response to the FBIs blackmail has been to replace the original political leadership with his own version; to expand and increase the police state powers against immigrants; to increase the powers of the major tech companies to police and intensify work-place exploitation and the invasion of citizens privacy; to expand the unleash the power of state agents to torture suspects and to saturate all public events, celebrations and activities with open displays of jingoism and militarism with the goal of creating pro-war public opinion.



In a word: From the right to the left there are no political options to choose from among the two ruling political parties. Popular political movements and mass demonstrations have risen up against Trump with clear justification, but have since dissolved and been absorbed. They came together from diverse sectors: Women against sexual abuse and workplace humiliation; African-Americans against police impunity and violence; and immigrants against mass expulsion and harassment. They staged mass demonstrations and then declined as their anti-Trump animus was frustrated by the liberal-democrats hell-bent on pursuing the Russian connection.



In the face of the national-political debacle local and regional movements became the vehicle to support the struggles. Women organized at some workplaces and gained better protection of their rights; African-Americans vividly documented and published video evidence of the systematic brutal violation of their rights by the police state and effectively acted to restrain local police violence in a few localities; immigrant workers and especially their children gained broad public sympathy and allies within religious and political organizations; and anti-Trump movements combined with critics of the liberal/democrat apparatus to build broader movements and especially oppose growing war-fever.



Abroad, bi-partisan wars have failed to defeat independent state and mass popular resistance struggles for national sovereignty everywhere  from North Korea, Iran, Yemen, Syria, and Venezuela and beyond.



Even the fight within the two-headed reactionary party of the US oligarchy has had a positive effect. Each side is hell-bent on exposing the state-sponsored crimes of the other. In an unprecedented and historic sense, the US and world public is witness to the spies, lies and crimes of the leadership and elite on prime time and on the wide screen. We head in two directions. In one direction, there are the threats of nuclear war, economic collapse, environmental disasters and a full blown police state. In the other direction, there is the demise of empire, a revived and renewed civil society rooted in a participatory economy and a renewed moral order.

James Petras is a Bartle Professor (Emeritus) of Sociology at Binghamton University, New York. - https://petras.lahaine.org/

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Join the DiscussionHow Establishment Propaganda Gaslights Us Into Submission

By Caitlin Johnstone

February 12, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - The dynamics of the establishment Syria narrative are hilarious if you take a step back and think about them. I mean, the western empire is now openly admitting to having funded actual, literal terrorist groups in that country, and yet they're still cranking out propaganda pieces about what is happening there and sincerely expecting us to believe them. It's adorable, really; like a little kid covered in chocolate telling his mom he doesn't know what happened to all the cake frosting.

Or least it would be adorable if it weren't directly facilitating the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of people.

I recently had a pleasant and professional exchange with the Atlantic Council's neoconservative propagandist Eliot Higgins, in which he referred to independent investigative journalist Vanessa Beeley as "bonkers" and myself as "crazy", and I called him a despicable bloodsucking ghoul. I am not especially fond of Mr. Higgins.

You see this theme repeated again and again and again in Higgins' work; the US-centralized power establishment which facilitated terrorist factions in Syria is the infallible heroic Good Guy on the scene, and anyone who doesn't agree is a mentally deranged lunatic.

This is also the model for the greater imperialist propaganda construct, not just with regard to Syria but with Russia, North Korea, Iran, and any other insolent government which refuses to bow to American supremacist agendas . It works like this: first, the oligarch-owned establishment media, which itself is chock full of Council on Foreign Relations members , uses other warmongering think tanks and its own massive funding to force deep state psyops like Russiagate and "Saddam has WMDs" into becoming the mainstream narrative. Second, they use the mainstream, widely-accepted status of this manufactured narrative to paint anyone who questions it as a mentally defective tinfoil hat-wearing conspiracy theorist.

It's a perfect scheme. The mass media has given a few elites the ability to effectively turn a false story that they themselves invented into an established fact so broadly accepted that anyone who doubts it can be painted in the exact same light as someone who doubts the roundness of the Earth. The illusion of unanimous agreement is so complete that blatant establishment psyops are placed on the same level as settled scientific fact, even though it's made of little else but highly paid pundits making authoritative assertions in confident tones of voice day after day.

Yes, it is a perfect scheme. But there also happens to be a name for it.

In a lucid essay titled "Gaslighting: State Mind Control and Abusive Narcissism", Vanessa Beeley writes the following:

The psychological term Gaslighting comes from a 1944 Hollywood classic movie called Gaslight. Gaslighting describes the abuse employed by a narcissist to instil in their victims mind, an extreme anxiety and confusion to the extent where they no longer have faith in their own powers of logic, reason and judgement. These gaslighting techniques were adopted by central intelligence agencies in the US and Europe as part of their psychological warfare methods, used primarily during torture or interrogation.

Anyone who has been in an abusive relationship is likely to be familiar with this textbook abuse tactic to some extent, because it is such a useful tool for crippling the better judgment and alarm bells we all have which are meant to help us avoid situations that are harmful to us. If someone with confidence in their own clear judgement feels certain that their significant other is cheating, for example, there is likely to be a confrontation and some clothes out on the front lawn. If your significant other can convince you that you are paranoid or crazy, however, you will doubt what you are seeing and accept the stories you're being told by someone who appears to be a lot more grounded in reality than you are.

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Any degree of abuse can be justified in this way. The documentary What Happened, Miss Simone? tells an anecdote of jazz legend Nina Simone once having been tied up, raped, beaten and held at gunpoint by her husband, who left and then returned telling her she'd imagined the entire thing. And it worked.

We see the same thing today with the establishment Syria narrative and the Russiagate psyop, which are both riddled with plot holes and depend on the irrational position that the same establishment which manufactured support for the Iraq invasion using lies is now beneficent and trustworthy. But if you point out the many reasons to be skeptical of these narratives, you belong in the crazy box.

The good news is that there is an easy remedy for this tactic. We need only to be thoroughly confident in our own judgment.

History has testified unequivocally that extreme skepticism is the only rational response to have toward establishment narratives, especially when those narratives are beating the drums of war. The US war machine has an extensive history of using lies, false flags and propaganda to manufacture support for its bloodthirsty agendas, and the adage that truth is the first casualty of war holds up flawlessly in cases of both hot war and cold war. It is simply self-evident that there is no good reason to take these people at their word, and every reason not to.

Your own educated best guess about what is going on in the world is infinitely superior to placing unquestioning faith in an establishment which has a vested interest in lying to you and a demonstrable history of doing so. Trust yourself and have full confidence that your conclusions, however imperfect, are always superior to those of known liars and manipulators.

Never, ever let anyone bully and cajole you for being skeptical of mainstream narratives instead of believing the say-so of malignant deceivers. Trust yourself. You are not being crazy, you are behaving logically. Don't let them gaslight you.

Thanks for reading! My daily articles are entirely reader-funded, so if you enjoyed this piece please consider sharing it around, liking me on Facebook , following me on Twitter , bookmarking my website , checking out my podcast , throwing some money into my hat on Patreon or Paypal , or buying my new book Woke: A Field Guide for Utopia Preppers .

====

Join the DiscussionA 24-year-old woman, Bimpe Adeite, who allegedly stole a generator valued N70,000 belonging to a male friend, risks three-year imprisonment if found guilty. The court heard that Adeite sold the generator and spent the proceeds on hair and skin creams.

The accused was, on Friday, brought before a Badagry Chief Magistrates Court, Lagos State, on a charge of stealing. Her address is unknown.

Akpan Uko, the police prosecutor, told the court that the accused committed the offence on January 26 at No. 13, Adamu St., Itoga, Badagry. He said the generator belonged to Mr. Denis Akanbi, a friend of the accused.

The accused went to spend time with the complainant, so when he was not around on this particular day, she decided to steal the generator and sell it.

She spent the money on her hair and cream products, the prosecutor said.

Uko said the offence was punishable under Section 285 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State, Nigeria 2011.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the offence.

Chief Magistrate Jimoh Adefioye granted bail to the accused in the sum of N100,000 and a surety who must provide evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government.

He adjourned the case until March 1 for further hearing.Its almost February 14th and we hear many Nigerian men are weighing their options on how theyll spend the day. According to them, a dinner date with bae costs a fortune and a match at the nearest viewing centre is just N100.

Real Madrid vs PSG and Porto vs Liverpool is on that day. So guys are you going to just leave your woman alone to be by herself this Valentines day just to go see a match?

How are you spending Valentines day???A young Scottish woman who identified herself as Anggi Lagorio has shared an experience she had when she visited Islams holiest city of Mecca to perform Hajj.

She made the disclosure on her Twitter handle on February 6.

According to the Edinburgh resident, she was harassed by a man while she went to perform the Hajj in 2010.

She noted that another man also harassed her sister.

See tweets below:

Source  HeraldClose Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily!

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Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.The Ames Main Street Farmers Market is a local market that has been a staple of downtown Ames for the past eight years. The market Throughout 2017, Apple was adding new locations covered by transit information on a semi-regular basis, and while 2018 has been relatively quiet so far, the initiative hasnt died down completely.

At the time of publication, Apple hasnt updated its official page that outlines where transit information is available within Apple Maps, but MacRumors was first to report the feature is now live in Tucson, Arizona. As per the report, folks living or visiting Tucson can now use Apple Maps to get public transportation information, including the SunTran bus line.

Amtrak has been supported for quite some time, and that information is still available in Apple Maps, too.

The last batch of updates that included any cities in Arizona was back in October of last year, when Apple officially added support for transit information within Apple Maps to Phoenix, Arizona, the states capital.

Apple introduced transit data in Apple Maps back with the launch of iOS 9, and, since then, the company has been rolling out coverage support for new cities all across the globe. The expansion was going along quite nicely throughout 2017, but near the end of the year the updates slowed down. This update to include Tucson is the first transit-related update to Apple Maps since 2018 kicked off.

Our Take

Apple Maps has improved quite a bit since its debut all those years ago. This writer can say that, usually, he opts to use Apples first-party option than use something like Google Maps. The rollout of transit information support has to start happening a bit faster, though, as this is certainly one feature that Apple trails behind the competition.

Does Apple Maps offer transit information where you live?

[via MacRumorsWhen Apple revealed its Q4, 2017 numbers, it mentioned that the Apple Watch had its best quarter ever with the Apple Watch Series 3 selling twice of what the Apple Watch Series 2 did in the same period. Now, as per analytics firm Canalys, Apple shipped 18 million Apple Watch units in 2017, with over 8 million of them being shipped in Q4 2017 alone  an increase of 32 percent YoY.

Impressively, the Apple Watch Series 3 with LTE connectivity was in high demand in the US, Japan, and Australia. It is the fastest selling LTE wearable in the market, with shipments crossing 1.6 million units for the quarter.

Remember that this is despite the limited availability of the LTE Apple Watch so this is no small feat. Apple recently expanded the Apple Watch Series 3 LTE availability to Singapore and Hong Kong which should help give its shipments a further boost.

The cellular version of the Apple Watch was in strong demand in the US, Japan and Australia, where all major operators stocked it in time for the holiday season, said Vincent Thielke, Research Analyst at Canalys. The Apple Watch Series 3 is the fastest-selling LTE wearable on the market, with shipments doubling quarter on quarter to reach 1.6 million. But limited operator selection in the UK, Germany and France influenced consumer purchase decisions, and stifled the growth potential of the connected Apple Watch. Moving into new markets, such as Singapore and Hong Kong in Q1 2018, just in time for Chinese New Year, is a good move, added Thielke.

Impressively, Apple Watch surpassed the sales of major Swiss watch companies like Rolex, Omega, and Swatch combined in Q4 2017.

For the first time, #Apple shipped more Apple Watches in 4Q2017, than the entire Swiss Watch Industry shipped watches! Apple is the biggest watch maker in the world #AppleWatch pic.twitter.com/G6M6TJ7uO2  Francisco Jeronimo (@fjeronimo) February 4, 2018

This might not a be a fair comparison since Rolex and Omega watches run into tens of thousands of dollars but this is still an impressive feat from Apple. This does not mean that the Swiss watch industry will go extinct but it does mean that they will have to change their strategy to ensure their products keep up with the time.

Our Take

Apple has met with huge success with the Apple Watch Series thanks to its constant innovation. Despite a decline in sales a year after its release, Apple kept improving the platform through better hardware and software with every iteration. Thanks to this, the Apple Watch now dominates the wearable market while every other company is either pulling out from it or has shut shop.

[Via CanalysCoolstar has released beta 11-2 for Electra jailbreak tool for iOS 11  iOS 11.1.2, which improves the reliability of jailbreakd.

Update:

Coolstar has updated Electra jailbreak tool for iOS 11  iOS 11.1.2 to beta 11-3. It fixes a race condition on initial jailbreak to improve the success rate of jailbreaking.

He also had this to say about why it is taking time to test Cydia:

For those wondering, yes, Im being super careful here before I test Cydia out on my own iOS 11 device. Unlike others, I dont have a dedicated test device, so I cant afford to screw this iPad up

Original story follows below:

Heres the complete changelog of Electra Jailbreak beta 11-2:

Significantly improve the reliability of jailbreakd so it can handle a large amount of process launches at once (coolstar) Make jailbreakd print directly to stderr rather than NSLog (coolstar) Fix a race condition in beta 11 that would cause jailbreakd to sometimes inject too early, and thus fail to inject (coolstar)

Coolstar also plans to release a patched version of Cydia for iOS 11, which will finally make it easier to install jailbreak tweaks and themes. He has mentioned that he just has some quirks to handle with dpkg, and then we should be able to test a fully working Cydia! He hasnt provided any ETA yet, so please be patient, and avoid nagging him for a release date or asking him for a screenshot of Cydia running on iOS 11  iOS 11.1.2 as proof.

Electra is a semi-untethered jailbreak that makes use of Ian Beers async_awake exploit that has also been used by LiberiOS jailbreak. A semi-untethered jailbreak is similar to an untethered jailbreak, it gives the ability to reboot your iOS device on its own. On each boot, the iOS device startup sequence is unmodified and it boots into its original, non-jailbroken state. However, instead of needing to use a tool from a computer to re-jailbreak the iOS device again, like a tethered or semi-tethered cases, the user can re-jailbreak their device with the help of an app running on the iOS device such as the Electra app in case of Electra jailbreak.

Electra includes the Substitute substrate, a Cydia substrate alternative, so jailbreakers can install and use jailbreak tweaks that are compatible with iOS 11. It, however, does not include Cydia, so you need to install jailbreak tweaks in iOS 11 manually currently.

Coming back to Electra beta 11-2, you can download the latest version of Electra IPA from the official website. You will need to use Cydia Impactor to sideload the Electra IPA and then run the process to jailbreak your iOS device. If you need help then check our tutorial on how to jailbreak iOS 11  iOS 11.0.2 using Electra Jailbreak toolkit with step-by-step instructions.

If you had already jailbroken your iPhone or iPad using Electra Jailbreak then you can reboot your device, and sideload the latest version of the Electra IPA again with Cydia Impactor, and then re-jailbreak your iPhone or iPad with the latest version.

Dont forget to signup for our Daily Newsletter so you dont miss any iOS 11 jailbreak news.Allie Gross covers Teton County government. Originally from the Chicago area, she joined the News&Guide in 2017 after studying politics and Spanish at Vanderbilt University in Nashville.You have permission to edit this article.

Edit CloseA German consumer group said [press release, in German] Monday that the Berlin Regional Court [official website, in German] ruled [judgment, PDF, in German] that Facebooks use of personal data was illegal because it did not adequately secure the informed consent of its users.

The Federation of German Consumers Organisation (vzbv) [advocacy website], which brought the suit, stated that Facebooks default settings and some of its terms of service were in breach of consumer law by denying consumers of a meaningful choice. The Federal Data Protection Act [text, PDF] permits personal information to be recorded and used by a company only with explicit agreement from the individual.

According to Heiko Duenkel, litigation policy officer, Facebook hides default settings that are not privacy-friendly in its privacy center and does not provide sufficient information about it when users register. The main issues brought were regarding how it tracks which sites sites its users access; its app, which had a pre-activated service that revealed an users location to the person they chatted with; and default settings permitted search engines to link to the users timeline making it easier to find an users profile.

In accordance, the court found that the default settings were invalid as declarations of consent and eight clauses in the terms of service were declared invalid, such as the terms allowing Facebook to transmit data to the US and use personal data for commercial purposes and the authentic name policy which required users to use their real names. Additionally, the court held that Facebook needed to obtain explicit consent from its members before using their names and profile pictures in com mercialand sponsored materials.

Facebook plans to appeal, stating that it has made significant changes to its terms of service and data protection guidelines since the case was originally brought, and will be in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation [text], which provides significant changes [text] in privacy laws.

vzbv also plans to appeal to the Berlin Court of Appeal [official website] on claims that were rejected.

Facebook in the past has faced various complications with its services and privacy concerns in Germany. In 2016, the Dusseldorf district court [official website, in German] ruled against the use of Facebooks like button on an online shopping site, finding that consent from customers is required before transmission of their identities to Facebook. That same year, a federal court ruled that Facebooks friend finder feature constituted as advertising harassment.Asma Jahangir [Bloomberg profile], a leading human rights activist and lawyer in Pakistan, died Sunday after suffering from cardiac arrest in her hometown city of Lahore at the age of 66.

Jahangir dedicated decades of her life towards the pursuit of bringing about human rights changes within the Pakistani government and military, co-founding the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan [advocacy website] and serving as the first female leader of the Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan [official website]. She had also been serving as Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran for the UN.

Following the news, human rights organizations and Pakistani officials expressed their condolences. UN Secretary-General [official website] Antonio Guterres issued a statement [text] commemorating Ms. Jahangir

[w]e have lost a human rights giant. News of the death of Asma Jahangir today is echoing within her native Pakistan and across the world. She was a tireless advocate for inalienable rights of all people and for equality  whether in her capacity as a Pakistani lawyer in the domestic justice system, as a global civil society activist, or as a Special Rapporteur.

Asma was brilliant, deeply principled, courageous and kind. I convey my heartfelt condolences to Asmas family, friends and colleagues, including in the United Nations and civil society within which she was such a leader. Asma will not be forgotten.

Calls have been made for a state funeral, though arrangements have not yet been made.UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Raad Al Hussein on Monday expressed concern [press release] over the continuing casualties in Yemen.

According to Zeid, The upsurge in fighting in the south-western Governorate of Taizz is of particular concern. Civilians are under fire on all sides, as Houthi and affiliated forces carry out sniper attacks and indiscriminate shelling, and the Saudi-led Coalition continues to conduct airstrikes [JURIST report]. Civilians in the city of Taizz, the conflict is not just escalating but inescapable.

Zeid addresses the safety of civilians, stating that the parties to this conflict are obligated to take constant care to spare the civilian population, respecting the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution. [A]ny intentional, direct attack against civilians or civilian objects is considered a serious violation of international humanitarian law, and that they should take all feasible precautions to avoid, and in any event, minimise, the impact of violence on civilians.

Previously, Zeid reported that more than 13,000 civilians have been killed or wounded in the last two years and more than 80 percent of the population are in need of humanitarian assistance. Currently, the number has risen to more than 15,000 casualties.

Last March Zeid released a statement urged for an immediate ceasefire [JURIST report] in the Yemen war and continued international support in ending the conflict.

Recently, there has been an increase in the violence between Without-affiliated forces and loyalists to President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. The number of killed and injured has doubled since February.

In November the Arab Organisation for Human Rights in the UK [advocacy website] requested [JURIST report] that the International Criminal Court [official website] investigate allegations of war crimes in Yemen committed by the United Arab Emirates recruiting foreign nationals to serve in an army composed or mercenaries.

In August 56 national, regional, and international nongovernmental organizations called [JURIST report] for the UN Human Rights Council [official website] to conduct an independent, international inquiry into the human rights violations committed in Yemen.A group of UN human rights experts said [press release] Monday that the detention of two Supreme Court judges in the Maldives is an attack on the independence of the judiciary and undermines the courts ability to work freely and effectively.

The arrests follow the Supreme Courts decision to nullify the sentences against nine opposition figures, including former president Mohamed Nasheed [campaign profile], who were thrown into prison or forced into exile by President Abdulla Yameen [official profile]. Subsequent to the arrests, the three remaining Supreme Court judges overturned the order [JURIST report] to free the nine opposition leaders.

In a joint statement, the experts said:

the independence of the judiciary is under serious threat, along with the principle of separation of powers between the State and the courts. This direct attack on the Supreme Court undermines its legitimacy and independence, and casts serious doubt on its ability to protect constitutional principles and to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The UN experts are concerned that the alleged arbitrary arrest and detention of the two justices is now affecting the work of the other judges.

Judges should decide all matters before them impartially, on the basis of facts and in accordance with the law. This is not possible when their very liberty and security is threatened.Traditional New York Style Cheesecake

Yield: One 9-Inch Cheesecake Print Recipe Classic New York Style Cheesecake ingredients:

1/3 cup sifted cake flour

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

Pinch of salt

2 extra large eggs, separated

1/3 cup sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 drops lemon extract

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar Sponge Cake Crust

Four 8-ounce packages full fat cream cheese at room temperature

1 2/3 cups sugar

1/4 cup cornstarch

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

2 extra large eggs

3/4 cup heavy whipping cream Original New York Cheesecake Batter instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and generously butter a 9 inch cheesecake pan (both the bottom and sides. Wrap the bottom and sides of the pan with heavy duty foil. Sift the flour, baking powder, and the salt together into a small bowl. In the bowl of a stand mixer, or with a hand mixer in a large bowl, whip the egg yolks on high for three minutes. While the mixer is still running, slowly pour in two tablespoons of the sugar and beat until the mixture is pale yellow and thick, about five minutes more. Beat in the vanilla and lemon extracts. Using a fine mesh strainer, sift the flour mixture into the egg yolk mixture. Stir it in by hand until just incorporated. Stir in the melted butter. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl and wash out the stand mixer bowl and whip attachment. There should be no traces of the egg yolk mixture. Add the egg whites and cream of tarter to the cleaned bowl, and whip on high until foamy. Slowly add the rest of the sugar until you have stiff peaks. Fold one third of the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture. Once combined, gently fold in the rest of the egg whites. Spread the batter into the cheesecake pan. Bake until just set, about 10 minutes. The center should be springy and not wet. Do not over bake. The crust should be pale. Cool on a wire rack while preparing the cheesecake filling (and leave the oven on). Sponge Cake Crust

Put one package of the cream cheese, 1/3 cup of the sugar, and the cornstarch into the bowl of a stand mixer, or a large bowl with a hand mixer. Beat with the mixer on low for about 3 minutes, until creamy. Add the rest of the cream cheese, one package at a time, until each one is mixed in. Increase the speed of the mixer to medium and and add the rest of the sugar and the vanilla. Add the eggs, one at a time until incorporated. Finally, add the cream and beat until fully incorporated. Do not over mix. Gently pour the mixture into the springform pan with the spongecake crust. Spread the filling with a spatula. Tap the pan on the counter a few times to disperse any air bubbles. Place the the foil lined pan into a larger pan, and fill the larger pan with hot water, about one inch high. Place the pan into the oven and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Remove the pan from the water bath and let cool on a wire rack, and let cool for 2 hours in a draft free area. Do not move the cheesecake for two hours. When the cheesecake has cooled completely, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Leftovers can be wrapped and frozen for up to one month. Cheesecake Filling http://www.karenskitchenstories.com/2018/02/traditional-new-york-style-cheesecake.html





This Traditional New York Style Cheesecake is smooth, creamy, and just about the most fabulous unadulterated cheesecake in the universe.This plain New York cheesecake is inspired by the cheesecake from Junior's in Brooklyn, founded in 1950 by Harry Rosen.This New York cheesecake does not have a Graham cracker crust. This cheesecake begins with a delicate spongecake crust. It's amazing how it holds up to the creamy cheesecake filling.Speaking of the filling, this cheesecake has two pounds of cream cheese, eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and lots of heavy cream and a little vanilla.This cheesecake is baked in a water bath until the top is a golden brown (not pale) and the edges are set. Mine got a little bit past the "golden" stage, but the cheesecake was perfection. I'm so happy that the cheesecake did not crack at all! Plus, it didn't sink in the middle! I pretty much did a happy dance.I took pieces of this cheesecake to work to share, and the taste testers swooned. Literally. I had to pick my colleagues up off the floor (not really, but they did love this cheesecake).To remove the cake from the bottom of he pan and move it to your cake plate, refrigerate the cake until it's very cold, then freeze it for 30 minutes. Then warm the bottom of the pan for about 20 seconds over a low burner, and then slide a metal spatula under the crust, and lift and slide the cake onto your platter.To bake this cheesecake, you will need a. I also used a. It was super easy to handle, and none of the water spilled out.When you remove the cheesecake from the oven, resist any temptation to move it more or mess with it. Just walk away. Supposedly, moving the cake while it is still warm may cause the cheesecake to sink a little in the middle. Also, wait until the cheesecake cools completely before refrigerating it.If you love cheesecake, give these a try:This month, the Baking Bloggers, hosted by Sue of Palatable Pastime , are making cheesecakes. Be sure to check out the links to many more cheesecakes, sweet and savory, by the rest of the bloggers after the recipe.This recipe was adapted from the wonderful book,More #BakingBloggers Cheesecakes:President Tran Dai Quang and overseas Vietnamese offer incense at Kinh Thien Palace (Photo: dangcongsan.vn)

According to Ms. Dang Thi Thu Ha, from the Department of Economic Relations, Science and Technology, State Commission for Overseas Vietnamese (SCOV) under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there are about 400,000 overseas Vietnamese intellectuals, including scientists and experts working in scientific research, economic management centres, finance and banking, transnational companies and international organizations. Apart from good capacity and knowledge, they have Vietnamese blood, patriotism and desire to contribute to the development of Vietnam.

Ms. Ha said that in recent years, hundreds of overseas Vietnamese intellectuals have returned to the homeland to work, participate in research and devote themselves to the nation. Additionally, they also regularly pay attention to important socio-economic issues of the country such as renewable energy, nuclear power and start-up projects.

Entrepreneur Thach Le Anh, founding member and Head of Vietnam Silicon Valley (VSV), a project of the Ministry of Science and Technology to attract, support and invest in start-up ideas under the model of the USs Silicon technology valley, said that over the past five years of VSVs operation, overseas Vietnamese intellectuals have made many important contributions and encouraging achievements to the construction of start-up models of Vietnams science and technology in the fields of supporting to call on capital, building relations with venture investment funds and foreign investors, advising and supporting inexperienced start-up activities in Vietnam.

Start-up activities need a lot of support, not only in finance but also knowledge and experience. Overseas Vietnamese intellectuals are one important resource to build Vietnam into a start-up nation. According to experts, if Vietnam goes slowly on the way, the creative ideas and intelligence of Vietnam will be drained out to foreign countries, where the start-up ecosystem support is better.

Encouraging and mobilizing overseas Vietnamese intellectuals to contribute to the country has great potential, but it hasnt developed symmetrically. Ms. Ha said that the promulgated policies seem not to be strong enough and there is no specific and attractive remuneration frame for intellectuals living abroad. In addition, Vietnam has no information, exchange and guidance coordination system to help overseas Vietnamese intellectuals get access to creative ideas and business ideas. Moreover, the working mechanism creates uncertainties for those trying to be ready to work in Vietnam.

The biggest problem for Vietnams start-up ecosystem is capital resources and legal framework for start-up businesses and venture investment funds. This shortcoming can discourage overseas Vietnamese intellectuals, even when willing to support the development of the country's start-up problem.

To overcome remaining problems, it is necessary to change policies to invite leading scientists, experts and intellectuals with appropriate wage and remuneration mechanisms. In addition, the change in mechanism and policy towards empowering intellectuals and scientists in research, contribution and support is an important factor to create motive force for them to return to the homeland.

Furthermore, the State should give priority to start-up ecosystem development, encouraging the establishment and development of start-up and technological businesses of overseas Vietnamese people in Vietnam. This will attract high-ranking consultants with knowledge, intelligence, capital and relations, contributing to cause of building and developing the country./.Vietnam always treasures and wants to further friendship

and multi-faceted cooperation with Nigeria. (Photo: crossed-flag-pins.com)

The Vietnamese diplomat conveyed compliments and greetings from President Tran Dai Quang to President Muhammadu Buhari and Nigerian people.

He informed his host of Vietnams socio-economic development and the sound relations between the two countries.

He said that he will do his utmost to contribute to the development of the bilateral ties, particularly in the fields of economy, trade and agriculture.

The Nigerian President spoke highly of Vietnams achievements in the countrys doi moi (renewal) process and development and recommended that both sides need to bolster cooperation in the fields of Vietnams strength like agriculture and aquaculture.

Earlier, Ambassador Tuan had a meeting with Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs Geoffrey Onyeama on February 6th, during which Tuan conveyed a diplomatic note to the Minister, asking Nigeria to continue its support for Vietnams candidacy for non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council during 2020-2021.

On the occasion, he conveyed Deputy Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minhs invitation to Geoffrey Onyeama to visit Vietnam./.FILE - This is a Nov. 30, 2017 file photo of Britain's International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt. OxfamAos deputy chief executive Monday Feb. 12, 2018 resigned amid the scandal involving sex abuse in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake. Penny Lawrence says sheAos ashamed of what happened on her watch. Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt is demanding that Oxfam show moral accountability and provide full disclosure about the case. She has threatened to pull public funding unless the charity reveals everything it knows about allegations. (Nick Ansell/PA File via AP)FILE - In this April 20, 2013 file photo, members of a crowd numbering tens of thousands smoke marijuana at the Denver 4/20 pro-marijuana rally at Civic Center Park in Denver. According to a report released on Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, the day marijuana users celebrate as their own holiday is linked with a slight increase in fatal U.S. car crashes, in an analysis of 25 years of data. Whether pot was involved in any April 20 crashes is not known, but the increased risk was similar in magnitude as found in previous research linking traffic accidents with Super Bowl Sunday. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley, File)Thomas Dungey (Mark Smich's lawyer) (left to right), Ravin Pillay (Dellen Millard's lawyer), Justice Michael Code, Crown Attorney Jill Cameron, Dellen Millard, Mark Smich and Laura Babcock's mother, Linda are shown in this courtroom sketch from the sentencing hearing for Millard and Smich in Toronto, Monday, Feb.12, 2018. On the court screen are photos of Laura Babcock and Tim Bosma. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Alexandra Newbould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A prototype of a new microscope being developed by researchers at Simon Fraser University that is a fraction of the cost of similar devices and can run more studies faste is shown in a handout photo. A new, cheaper microscope developed at a university in British Columbia has the potential to rapidly accelerate research on molecules, scientists say. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Simon Fraser University MANDATORY CREDITColten Boushie is shown in an undated handout photo. Jade Tootoosis says her family has ???little to no faith??? in Canada's justice system following the acquittal of the man charged in the shooting death of her cousin, Colten Boushie. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HOBarrels of rum from Ironworks Distillery rest before being loaded on a tall ship in this undated handout photo. For centuries, seafarers have known the benefits of aging rum in the hold of a ship, but now a Nova Scotia distillery is launching a modern take on the practice that will see their spirits circle the globe. Over the next 15 months, four barrels of rum from Ironworks Distillery in Lunenburg will travel in the cargo hold of the three-masted tall ship Picton Castle. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO, Ironworks Distillery *MANDATORY CREDIT*DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. -- The Douglas County Sheriff's Office has been notified of a power outage in the communities of Milo and Tiller.

As a result of the power outage, some residents are also experiencing a telephone service outage. The sheriff's office said affected residents may not be able to call emergency services but may go to the Milo Fire Department which is manned by personnel.

According to Pacific Power's website, the current estimate for restoration of service is approximately 2:00 am. The cause of the outage is unknown to the sheriff's office.

Residents wishing to check the status of the outage may visit Pacific Power's website.ROSEBURG, Ore -- A Sutherlin woman was killed in a two-vehicle crash on Sunday.

It happened around 3:30 a.m. on Feb. 11 south of Sutherlin, on I-5 northbound, near milepost 131.

Oregon State Police said the driver of a Chrysler minivan, Brandy Haga, did not see a semi tractor-trailer in the slow lane in front of her and crashed into the back of the trailer.

Haga, 29, and three of her passengers were taken to the hospital. One of the passengers, Jennifer Cruz, 34, later died at the hospital. Police said she was not wearing a seatbelt.

The driver of the semi was not hurt and is cooperating with the investigation.

The other two passengers from Sutherlin are recovering in the hospital from unknown injuries.

The investigation is ongoing, but police do not expect to file criminal charges.MASON CITY, Iowa - For the past 16 years, Jamie Williams has worked as a registered nurse for Mercy Medical Center-North Iowa.

But she says it wasn't easy to land her dream job.

"When I applied to Mercy back in 2002, there was two of us fighting for the same position on the fourth floor, so there was a high number of students and a low number of job openings, says Williams.

Now, it's just the opposite.

Hospitals are having a hard time filling nursing positions.

Thats where this new partnership between the University of Iowa and North Iowa Area Community College comes in.

Its being called the "RN to BSN 3+1" agreement.

"Because it allows the students that are currently going through the program to pick up those classes and to work towards their BSN, says Williams.

Nursing student Dillon Smith agrees and credits the program for their hands-on training, better preparing them for the real thing.

"We have plenty of manikins and models that you can feel pulses on, they act just like a real patient and we have someone running the simulations in the background, Smith said.

They are very prepared to enter the workforce, and, as Dillon mentioned, they get the hands-on experience, says Williams.

As for Smith, he is confident in knowing that NIACC and the nursing program will help land him a job in his desired field.

People that I have talked to, as far as employers or managers or supervisors, even at the Mercy center really like NIACC students because we become familiar with the hospital setting and that hospital, in particular. So if we do decided to go to that hospital we will hit the ground running.

The program will start in the fall and students who are in their fourth semester at NIACC who have a 3.0 grade-point average may apply.FOREST CITY, Iowa  A southern Minnesota man is pleading not guilty to a high speed chase that started in North Iowa.

35-year-old Weston William Zuehl of Albert Lea is charged with eluding and possession of marijuana  second offense. Police say they tried to stop Zuehl on North Harrison Street in Lake Mills on November 17, 2017 but he sped away, hitting speeds of 110 miles per hour before finally abandoning his vehicle in a cornfield in Minnesota. Police say a baggie of marijuana was found in the vehicle.

Officers say Zuehl could not be found that day and a warrant was issued for his arrest. He was taken into custody on January 12 in Albert Lea.

Zuehl is now set to stand trial on March 28 in Winnebago County District Court.MASON CITY, Iowa - Tawny Symonds, who pled guilty to child endangerment after being accused of sexually abusing a child under the age of three while running an in-home daycare, was given a suspended sentence with no prison time Monday morning.

The sentence drew outrage from the victim's family.

I feel like the plea deal was a slap in the face and that she really isn't learning anything from this - just how to get away with it the next time," the mother of a victim said.

And all the stuff that I had to go through ... as a two-year-old little girl she never should have had to be tested for HIV, AIDS, anything at all or to be examined."

Symonds, 31, was given a five-year probation sentence and will not have contact with minors but is allowed to see her two kids.

Symonds, from Wells, Minnesota, was sentenced at the Law Enforcement Center on one count of child endangerment. She had two counts of a Class B felony for sexual abuse and a Class C felony for assault dismissed.

Symonds accepted an Alford Plea in the case.

There is strong evidence of actual guilt when considering all of the evidence, including testimony of unrelated and independent witnesses and the charges against me, the court document states.

She was charged in Dec. of 2016.

The child endangerment Alford plea is a Class D felony. The maximum she could have faced was five years in prison and a $750 fine.

Follow updates below: Tweets by boster_emilyROCHESTER, Minn.  No new cases of chronic wasting disease were found during a special late-season hunt in southeastern Minnsota.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says 317 deer were harvested, down from 900 during the late hunt in 2017. The DNR also says deer hunting permits for landowners in the southeastern Minnesota CWD management zone become effective this week.

Were targeting our efforts this year and contacting eligible landowners via letter with the details they need to participate, said Lou Cornicelli, DNR wildlife research manager. With their help, we want to lower deer densities in core chronic wasting disease locations and remove potentially infected deer.

Landowners within two miles of any infected deer found in 2016 and 2017 are eligible for a shooting permit, which will be good from mid-February to mid-March. The DNR says this is not a public hunting opportunity.

A map of the disease management zone and additional information about the DNRs efforts to keep Minnesotas wild deer healthy are available by clicking here.ROCHESTER, Minn.  Police say a man who may have been involved in robberies last week in Rochester has been arrested after he was found lying on top of a 9 mm handgun.

Souleysi Singharath, 19, of Rochester, was apprehended Friday after his mother let authorities in an the residence in the 5700 block of Conway Ct. NW.

While officers were there, they found drugs and obtained a search warrant and came back. Authorities found evidence from recent burglaries within walking distance of the home. He was arraigned Monday for being a felon in possession of a firearm but is expected to face additional burglary charges later in the week.* Asian real money investors turn their attention to 10-year segment

By John Weavers

SYDNEY, Feb 12 (IFR) - A greatly expanded investor pool is triggering a run of large, long-dated issues in the SSA Kangaroo market, in stark contrast to recent years, when mid-curve trades were in the ascendancy.

Supranationals and agencies have raised a combined A$5.9bn (US$4.6bn) from 44 Kangaroo bonds from so far this year, with A$3.8bn coming via new 10-year and 10.5-year issues or taps, to take average deal maturities out to 9.5 years.

This represents quite a shift from early 2017, when just A$1.0bn of the A$4.4bn year-ago SSA sales total was related to long-dated Kangaroos, with only three of these trades raising A$100m or more, the largest being A$150m.

Small taps or private placements then dominated the segment, targeting Japanese life insurers in search of high-yielding Triple A long-term Australian dollar bonds to hedge daily inflows from their Australian dollar-denominated life insurance policies.

"Japanese insurers still play a large part, but we are currently seeing much greater interest from fund managers, central banks and official institutions, particularly out of Asia, alongside selective demand from Australia and Europe," said Paul White, global head of syndication at ANZ.

This year has already delivered 13 A$100m-plus long-dated issues, including two A$500m 10.5-year Kangaroos, from the Asian Development Bank and last Tuesday's International Bank of Reconstruction and Development print. The previous IBRD 10.5-year sale in April 2026 raised A$150m. HIGH-QUALITY BOOK The latest 10.5-year offering from the World Bank funding arm confirmed the broadening real-money investor base.

Central banks and official institutions, which traditionally focus on the five-year segment, bought 64%, with asset managers and insurance companies taking 20%, while banks and corporates picked up the remaining 16%. Asia was allocated 88%, Australia 8% and Europe 4%.

Asian banks, central banks and official institutions are looking to diversify portfolios overseas, away from local markets where property, resource and bank credits tend to dominate. In doing so, they are drawn to the recent back-up in yields and relative cost of funding advantages at the long end of the Kangaroo curve. The larger, more liquid, deals now being printed further adds to their allure.

The African Development Bank priced a A$360m 3.35% 10.5-year Kangaroo on January 30 at a yield of 3.38%, a decent pick-up over the 3.1575% to 3.21% yield range for taps of its July 2027s between April and October last year.

In absolute yield terms, the ACGB/Treasury spread had narrowed from around 30bp a year ago, but remained positive at 10bp-20bp during January, whereas the five-year ACGB fell to flat to Treasuries, having offered 40bp more juice in early 2017.

"The US dollar market is compelling in the three-year to five-year segment, while the 10-year-plus Kangaroo segment is attractive on a comparative cost of funding basis. We expect this to remain the case unless yields retreat and/or the cross-currency swap basis narrows significantly," White said.

Overall, SSA Kangaroo supply is unlikely to reach 2014's recent annual high point of A$26.0bn, especially if five-year offering remains in the doldrums. This seems likely in the near term as the five-year ACGBs/Treasury spread had fallen to negative 15bp last Thursday as US yields ratcheted higher. The 10-year spread tightened to just positive 2bp.

Three-year to four-year issuance withered after 2011, when the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority left Kangaroos off its list of high-quality liquid assets for Basel III purposes, thereby depleting the natural bank-balance-sheet demand for this short-term paper.

(This story appeared in the February 10 issue of IFR Asia magazine; Reporting by John Weavers; Editing by Vincent Baby and Daniel Stanton)HANOI, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Here's a snapshot of Vietnamese dong exchange rates in the official and unofficial markets, indicative SJC gold prices in Hanoi and interbank offered rates at 0419 GMT.

February 12 USD/VND mid-point 22,430 USD/VND interbank 22,697/22,702 USD/VND unofficial 22,710/22,740 SJC gold (mln dong/tael) 36.84/37.08

Interbank offered rates Overnight 2.8-4.3

1 week 3.1-4.4

1 month 4.0-4.5

3 months 3.9-4.7

NOTES: As of Jan. 4, 2016, the State Bank of Vietnam has begun setting the mid-point rate on daily basis, allowing dollar/dong transactions to move in a band of +/- 3 percent around the mid point. The dong's exchange rate against other currencies is not restricted by a band. Interbank offered rates are the latest indicative bid/ask prices, quoted from market sources.

One tael is equivalent to 37.5 grams or 1.21 troy ounces. SJC gold prices are quoted by state-owned Saigon Jewelry Co.

For more interbank rate fixings released at 0400 GMT, click on .

For Vietnam market overview click on: Vietnam's bonds market auctions: Bonds auction results: (Compiled by Hanoi Newsroom)(Kitco News) - Analysts are optimistic when it comes to Chinese gold demand for the Lunar New Year, stating that they expect to see strong growth despite higher gold prices.

China is already seeing an improvement in gold demand ahead of the Lunar celebrations, which will usher in the year of the Dog on Feb. 16. The occasion has historically been a key gold-buying opportunity for consumers in a country that remains the largest gold-consuming nation, followed by India.

Things certainly started to pick up in the end of the year and we expect to see that continue into 2018, Daniel Hynes, ANZ senior commodity strategist, told Kitco News. We [also] saw relatively strong demand coming through in January, leading into [the] Chinese New Year. We expect to see double-digit growth in demand in 2018.

Capital Economics analyst Simona Gambarini also projects solid demand for the Lunar New Year.

Based on the local premiums to international gold prices, it appears that demand ahead of the Chinese New Year has been relatively strong, Gambarini said in an email.

But, she warned that she is not as positive when it comes to 2018 as a whole, adding that Capital Economics expects to see a slight drop during the year.

First, we expect the renminbi to appreciate this year, which should reassure investors who had previously sought the safety of gold. Second, jewelry demand for gold has been on a downward trend since 2013 . . . we dont think that this is the beginning of an upward trend, Gambarini pointed out.

Third, the PBOC [People's Bank of China] hasnt added any gold to its official reserves since October 2016. With gold prices now higher, the value of the banks gold reserves has also gone up, reducing the incentive to buy more gold, she noted.

Here Is What Could Drive Gold Demand

Those projecting an increase in demand are keeping an eye on both seasonal factors as well as changes in regulation.

Certainly, previous restrictions on quotas for importing gold [have] weighed on the sector and are slow lifting, Hynes said.

Also, increasing housing pressures are likely to benefit gold, both in the investment and retail spaces.

With increasing pressures on the housing sector, safe-haven asset classes, such as gold, will start to benefit even more in the near term, Hynes said. Due to constraints placed on housing industry in China due to exceptional growth, prices have subsided and investors started to look at other asset classes, and certainly gold has been benefiting from that.

Higher Gold Prices Are Not An Impediment

Gold prices rose in January to 1.5-year highs on the back of a weaker U.S. dollar. Since then, gold has retreated, but still remains firmly above the psychological level of $1,300 an ounce.

Analysts say that higher prices are unlikely to impact Chinese consumers during the Lunar New Year, but warned that volumes might be affected.

For the Indian market, weve seen that consumers have a set wallet, which theyll use to purchase gold. Although China has a slightly different type of market in terms of patterns and trends, high prices will not be a hindrance to stronger demand, Hynes said. Yet, volumes can be impacted by higher prices, but that phenomena hasnt played out in China just yet.

Turbulence within the Chinese equity space is also expected to draw investors, despite rising gold prices.

Higher gold prices are not expected to meaningfully dampen demand during [the] Chinese New Year, which will be buoyed by the recent volatility in Chinese equities, with the Shanghai Composite Index now down over 12% from its recent highs, the chief economist at ABC Bullion, Jordan Eliseo, said in an email to Kitco News.

Chinas Gold Trends

China remains the worlds largest bar and coin market, with 306.4 metric tons of investment in 2017, according to the World Gold Councils latest Gold Demand Trends report.

Annual demand was 8% higher compared to 2016 and comfortably above its five-year average of 284.8t, the WGC said.

The jewelry side of the equation still remains weaker than the investment side, said Hynes.

This is in part because of the anti-corruption campaign that has been undertaken during the past few years, which impacted demand there. It certainly been more on the investment side that weve seen a bit of growth, he explained.

But, the WGC remains confident in the jewelry demand, estimating an uptick in the near future.

The outlook for Chinese jewellery demand is, we believe, quite positive. Retailers continue to better meet consumers changing needs and sentiment is lifted by the supportive economic environment, the WGC report said.

In 2017, China saw a 3% rise in annual jewelry demand, which marked the first increase since 2013.

The trend for lower-weight, better designed, higher-margin premium gold jewelry products continues to gather momentum, the WGC added.I remember it like it was yesterday, our media director, John Dourekas, basically told me to, "get a mic, get a videographer and go cover it." Little did I know I would be stepping foot onto the world's largest mining conference with thousands of attendees. Fast forward to today and I am proud to say we now have a huge media presence at the conference; as a full-fledged media partner of the PDAC, with a dedicated filming area  if you happen to spot us please come over and say hello!

This is Kitco News' seventh year covering the PDAC and I can definitely say we have come a LONG way from our early days! This conference holds a special place in my heart since it was the first conference I ever covered for Kitco News  and what a way to start our journey.

I have been covering the precious metals market for five years now and PDAC is by far always the event that sets the tone for the rest of the year. It's more than just who is bullish or bearish; at last year's PDAC, a company was giving away Virtual Reality headsets, a critical signal that the sector is embracing innovation and technology, a major issue that has been raised throughout the past year. I can't wait to find out the tone at this year's conference. Being a regular now at PDAC, I recommend including in your survival gear, lip balm, Tic Tacs and comfortable shoes. On another personal note, as a new dad, the PDAC bags make fantastic diaper bags for the rest of the year - my daughter is already looking forward to her new 2018 gear.

- Neils Christensen, Editor

With a conference like PDAC it is vital to stay on top of everything, which is why we are bringing you LIVE coverage of all the events on social media. This will be my first time at PDAC and I am really looking forward to putting faces to all the familiar names. My working essentials are two iPhones and a MacBook. Youll recognize me as the one typing away in the front row, or the one hectically tweeting during presentations, or the one frantically sprinting down the hallway to get to the next session. Ill be there so you dont miss any precious metals-related updates. Take advantage and follow us on Twitter @KitcoNewsNOW. And feel free to tag us on Twitter (@KitcoNewsNOW) or Facebook (@KitcoNews) to be featured in our posts. Really excited to get things started!

- Anna Golubova, Social Media Reporter* Imports to boost stocks at state grains agency NFA

* Philippines is one of world's top rice buyers

By Enrico Dela Cruz

MANILA, Feb 12 (Reuters) - The Philippines will buy 250,000 tonnes of rice via an open international tender and delivery will be in June, a top government official said, as the country seeks to boost thin state stockpiles and stabilise rising domestic prices.

Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco, who chairs a government panel that approves rice imports, said there was no need to rush the purchase because there were about 3.8 million tonnes of local stocks as of this month, enough to cover 121 days of national consumption.

"We assure the public that there is no rice shortage," Evasco said in a media briefing on Monday, as he announced the panel's approval of the rice purchase plan of the state grains agency, the National Food Authority (NFA).

Evasco also said the local harvest season has begun and will peak in March, which will produce an additional 3.6 million tonnes.

The Philippines, one of the world's biggest rice buyers, saw domestic prices of the staple grain increase by 3-4 percent in late January and rise further this month, as government stockpiles dropped to the lowest in more than two decades. The NFA, tasked with stabilising domestic rice prices, has said private traders had increased prices amid thin supply of cheap NFA rice in the market.

The NFA said last week that its stocks dropped to about 60,000 tonnes, just enough for two days of national consumption. That is well below the required 15-day inventory and the lowest since July 1995.

Rice imports totalling about 507,000 tonnes, part of the 728,475-tonne purchases by local traders that were contracted last year, were also scheduled to arrive between the end of February and August this year, Evasco said.

The NFA's rice imports should arrive after the local harvest season, or in the first week of June, he said.

To ensure a "more inclusive, open and transparent" method of importation, he said the NFA will conduct a tender among private suppliers, similar to what was done last year.

The NFA's only rice purchase last year was 250,000 tonnes sourced from Vietnam, Thailand and Singapore, via a tender in July.

Evasco said rice suppliers from Vietnam and Thailand would also be able to participate in the upcoming tender, along with other producers including Laos.

(Reporting by Enrico dela Cruz; Editing by Biju Dwarakanath)Following are news stories, press reports and events to watch that may affect Poland's financial markets on Monday. ALL TIMES GMT (Poland: GMT + 1 hour):

POLAND-US RELATIONS

The contested new Polish law penalising the use of statements implicating Poland in Nazi German Holocaust will not impact the mutual strategic interests of the United States and Poland, leader of Poland's ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party told Do Rzeczy weekly.

CIECH PROBE Poland's anti-corruption agency arrested six people, including a former deputy treasury minister, in an investigation into the previous government's privatisation of chemical firm Ciech, state news agency PAP reported on Monday. PENSION SYSTEM REFORM

The government plans to present on Wednesday a final draft of legislation that would introduce employee pension schemes starting from 2019, Parkiet daily reported without naming its sources.

WIZZ AIR The chief executive of Hungarian low cost airlines Wizz Air, Josef Varadi, said that one can feel a climate of protectionism in Poland and of supporting the Polish national carrier LOT, he told Rzeczpospolita daily.

****Reuters has not verified stories reported by Polish media and does not vouch for their accuracy.****

For other related news, double click on: Polish equities E.Europe equities Polish money Polish debt Eastern Europe All emerging markets Hot stocks Stock markets Market debt news Forex news For real-time index quotes, double click on: Warsaw WIG20 Budapest BUX Prague PX (Reporting by Warsaw Bureau)(Repeats to additional subscribers)

By Jamie McGeever

LONDON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Market seismographs are still twitching at levels almost twice the historical average and Wall Street's gauge of implied volatility needs to return below 20 percent for stocks to stabilise.

On the surface, Wall St's 8 percent drawdown in the last week is striking but hardly earth-shattering. The market is back to where it was only 10 weeks ago, which at the time was a record high.

But the surge in volatility that accompanied it was the highest on record, and the fall is far steeper and faster than the historical average.

The relationship between implied volatility and market moves is symbiotic, but it's not clear which drives which. Does low volatility push stocks higher, or does a rising market depress volatility?

Whatever the answer to that is, volatility is back and stock markets around the world are wobbling.

Not that policymakers are worrying about it. New York Fed president Bill Dudley said Wall Street's declines were "small potatoes" and ECB chief economist Peter Praet said: "I don't care. A big spike in volatility is fine, we can live with this."

Is the last week simply a long-overdue correction that paves the way for a resumption of the "melt up", or could it prove to be the point at which the "Goldilocks" view of buoyant stocks and permanently low volatility was shattered for good?

On a basic level, if volatility returns to low levels and remains well anchored, investors will be more likely to bid up stocks and other risky assets. Persistently high volatility will have the opposite effect.

Analysts at Goldman Sachs say it is still too early to call the end of the "low vol regime", a change that would fundamentally alter the balance of risks for investors.

"Whether volatility settles into a higher regime is critical to asset allocation from here and could still affect allocations from systematic investors," they wrote in a note this week.

20-20

Having spent over a year consistently below 20 percent, the VIX index of implied volatility one-month options on the S&P 500 surged above 50 percent this week. Tuesday's rise was the biggest since the index was first compiled 28 years ago.

The VIX, also known as the Wall Street's "fear index", was on course to close this week above 30 percent.

Goldman reckons the VIX below 15 percent is a "low vol" environment, and above 15 percent represents high vol. Others put the threshold at 20 percent. The median value of the VIX since its inception is 17.2.

In 1991-1996, the VIX was almost always below 20 percent. In those six years the S&P 500 rose around 140 percent.

The six and a half years from 1997 to mid-2003 was a higher vol regime, with the VIX almost always above 20 percent. The S&P 500 emerged from that period, which encompassed the Russian and Brazilian crises, Long Term Capital Management's implosion and the dotcom crash, about 30 percent higher.

The following four years, in which the Greenspan Fed embarked on a steady, gradual and telegraphed series of rate hikes, was a low vol era once again. Wall Street rose nearly 70 percent on its way to fresh record highs in October 2007.

The five years from mid-2007 to mid-2012 captured the global financial crisis. Unsurprisingly the VIX was mostly above 20 percent, although it had long spells around 2010-2011 below that threshold.

The market fell around 10 percent, but that period included the 60 percent crash over 2008 and into early 2009.

From mid-2012 to last month, the VIX was mostly back below 20 percent. It was anchored at record lows below 10 percent for much of last year although it did spike higher for much of the late 2015/early 2016 period.

Overall, though, that five-and-a-half-year period of low vol sowed the seeds for a rampant bull market. The S&P 500 doubled, setting dozens of record highs in recent months.

The pattern is clear: a consistently sub-20 percent VIX goes hand in glove with booming stocks, while a VIX consistently above 20 percent delivers very choppy market, meagre gains or slight losses.

Not to mention the risk of full-blown crash.

<^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ VIX vs S&P 500 S&P 500 declines - historical averages ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^> (Reporting by Jamie McGeever; Graphics by Ritvik Carvalho; Editing by Larry King)(Repeats Friday's story without changes)

* SWFs anchor a record 26 IPOs in 2017-SWF Institute

* Way for SWFs to take chunky stakes in EM stocks

* Companies benefit from long-term, stable investors

By Claire Milhench

LONDON, Feb 9 (Reuters) - A Mexican tequila maker, a Vietnamese mall operator and Indian life insurers were just some of the stockmarket debuts that enticed sovereign investors to take chunky stakes in record numbers last year, and the trend shows no sign of stalling.

In data just released, the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute data put the number of initial public offerings (IPOs) "anchored" by SWFs at a record 26 in 2017, with some $826 million committed, up from $196.7 million in 2016.

Taking an anchor or cornerstone stake means investors commit to a hefty investment in advance of the listing, de-risking the process.

The upsurge in interest from SWFs, which hold some $6 trillion in assets globally, could encourage more emerging market companies to list after a strong 2017 in which the Asia-Pacific dominated global activity by both number of deals and proceeds according to EY.

Funding database PitchBook, which also tracks the market, identified SWF participation in a record 28 IPOs in 2017, worth some $10.78 billion in total.

"There's no reason to think this will reverse or slow down," said Doug Trafelet, managing director at PitchBook. "But these are big chunky deals, so they have to find the right opportunities to invest - they won't do so blindly."

This year Saudi Aramco will list in what is expected to be the world's biggest initial public offering (IPO). China is building a consortium with its SWF CIC and state-owned oil giants to act as a cornerstone investor. While Saudi Aramco won't struggle to win interest, lower-profile emerging market companies are keen to bring SWFs on board to raise their profile and provide reassurance to other investors. SWFs are also seen as unlikely to flip the stock for a quick profit.

For the fund, it's a way of getting a sizeable stake without paying over the odds, as fierce competition in private equity markets has seen deal values balloon over the last two years.

"Nowadays it's a little bit more difficult to deploy money, so if you can take a 5-10 percent stake in a company without driving up prices, then that's interesting for an institutional investor," said Markus Massi, a senior partner at The Boston Consulting Group.

RECORD YEAR

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Singapore's GIC and the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) were among the most active in fast-growing emerging markets such as India last year, PitchBook data showed.

India enjoyed a record year for IPOs with some $11.5 billion raised , partly driven by big insurer listings. These were attractive for SWFs looking to buy into long-term growth, as insurance coverage penetration is low but affordability is improving.

"It makes sense for a long-term investor like a SWF to invest into the growing middle classes in emerging markets, which are demanding hospitals, insurance, real estate and consumer goods," said Javier Capape, a director at the Sovereign Wealth Lab research centre in Madrid. "And India is a country with a huge population."

Insurer SBI Life attracted ADIA, GIC and KIA as anchors in India's first billion dollar IPO in seven years. It was swiftly followed by HDFC Life, which pulled in ADIA, Singapore's state-owned investment company Temasek and KIA among others. Nikhil Salvi, a senior manager at Aranca, an investment research and analytics firm, said the insurer debuts were attractive because the issuance was large. "From the SWF's point of view, one or two issues can set them up for the year - they don't have to chase multiple small deals."

Consumer plays in other emerging markets also proved popular, with Temasek anchoring the IPO of Mexican tequila maker Jose Cuervo through its subsidiary Aranda and participating in the IPO of Turkish jeans-maker Mavi. Meanwhile GIC anchored Vietnam's biggest IPO, mall operator Vincom Retail. For Norway's $1 trillion SWF, which cannot take stakes in unlisted companies , anchoring an IPO represents the earliest opportunity to get in. It took part in well over 100 IPOs in the first nine months of 2017, including anchoring Indian cable operator GTPL Hathway. "The fund's long-term strategy makes us well suited to play the role of anchor investor, and it's something we do from time to time," a spokesperson for Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), which manages the portfolio, told Reuters.

MARQUEE NAME

With some IPOs oversubscribed, the popularity of becoming an anchor investor or even entering into a pre-IPO deal is growing. It allows investors to secure a sizeable stake at an attractive price, ahead of the rush.

BCG's Massi said institutional investors may be offered the position of anchor shortly before the IPO at a fixed rate to stabilize prices. Some are even invited to pre-IPO deals with discounts of around 5-15 percent.

Having a marquee name give their seal of approval by taking an anchor stake boosts the company's credibility and gives other investors comfort.

"It demonstrates that we've carried out extensive due diligence on the company and that we see a strong investment case," Eugene O'Callaghan, director of Ireland's Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF), told Reuters.

ISIF and the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) focus on home-grown IPOs to help build out the local market. O'Callaghan said ISIF's backing of Greencoat Renewables, an energy company, life sciences company Malin and venture capital firm Draper Esprit had acted as a catalyst for other investors to take part.

"The market for attracting capital from international investors is intense - having ISIF on board can make it somewhat easier for companies to attract capital," he said.

(Reporting by Claire Milhench; additional reporting by John Geddie in Singapore and Terje Solsvik in Oslo; Editing by Toby Chopra)BRATISLAVA, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press reports and events to watch which may affect Slovak financial markets on Monday.

ALL TIMES GMT (Slovak Republic: GMT + 1 hour)

=========================ECONOMIC DATA========================

Real-time economic data releases.................. Summary of economic data and forecasts......... Recently released economic data................ Previous stories on Slovak data.......... **For a schedule of corporate and economic events: ===========================NEWS===============================

INDUSTRIAL OUTPUT: Slovakia's industrial output dropped by 1.1 percent year-on-year in December, statistics office data showed on Friday.

Story: Related news: =========================PRESS DIGEST===========================

FIGHTER JETS: Slovakia will likely extend the maintenance contract with Russia for its 12 MiG-29 fighter jets, Defence Minister Peter Gajdos said. The country is in talks to buy either American F-16s or Swedish Gripen fighter jets to replace its ageing Mig-29s but the new jets typically take 18 to 24 months to deliver and the current maintenance contract with Russia expires in autumn 2019.

Dennik N, page 8

Reuters has not verified the stories, nor does it vouch for their accuracy.)

For real-time stock market index quotes click in brackets: Warsaw WIG20 Budapest BUX Prague PX Main currency report TOP NEWS -- Emerging markets News editor of the day: Jan Lopatka +420 224 190 476

E-mail: prague.newsroom@thomsonreuters.com

(Reporting by Prague Newsroom)By Marja Novak

LJUBLJANA, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Slovenian police went on strike on Monday demanding a wage hike of about 15 percent, the first of a wave of public sector walk-outs this week piling pressure on the government.

Nurses will stop work for two hours on Tuesday and teachers will strike on Wednesday, union leaders said, both groups pressing for higher wages in the build up to national elections expected in June.

Around 200 police officers protested briefly outside the government building, blowing whistles and holding up a drawing of Prime Minister Miro Cerar with his hands over his ears - suggesting he was not listening to their demands.

Some officers could still be seen on the streets of Slovenia's capital Ljubljana - police spokeswoman Vesna Drole said the force would have enough staff available to ensure security.

The action came less than three weeks after around 30,000 public servants staged a one-day strike, demanding higher pay amid robust economic growth. The government expects the economy to expand by 3.9 percent this year versus 4.4 percent in 2017, mainly on account of higher exports and investments.

But business groups, including the Chamber of Commerce, have warned that excessive wage hikes would hurt investment and growth and lead to higher taxes. The centre-left government has said most wage demands are not acceptable as they are not justified by productivity and could threatened fiscal consolidation. The government hopes to end 2018 in a budget surplus of 0.4 percent of GDP after running a deficit of some 0.8 percent of GDP last year.

Radivoj Urosevic, the head of the Police Trade Union, told Reuters on Monday the officers were undervalued and they deserved more to reflect the hours they worked.

"The average gross monthly wage of a policeman is about 1,400 euros and we demand that the average wage be increased by some 200 to 220 euros," he said.

(Reporting By Marja Novak; Editing by Andrew Heavens)* Shanghai stocks higher, blue-chip CSI300 index up

* Gains in Shanghai stocks led by Zhongnongfa Seed and losses by ENN Ecological Holdings Co Ltd

* China's A-shares are at a 29.39 percent premium over H-shares.

SHANGHAI, Feb 12 (Reuters) - China stocks rebounded on Monday, led by small-caps, as some investors hunted for bargains after last week's ferocious sell-off. ** At the close, the Shanghai Composite index was up 23.71 points or 0.76 percent at 3,153.56. It sank nearly 10 percent last week. ** The blue-chip CSI300 index was up 1.29 percent, with its financial sector sub-index lower by 0.23 percent, the consumer staples sector up 2.6 percent, the real estate index up 2.04 percent and healthcare sub-index up 3.21 percent. ** The smaller Shenzhen index ended up 2.65 percent and the start-up board ChiNext Composite index was higher by 3.49 percent. ** Around the region, MSCI's Asia ex-Japan stock index was firmer by 0.93 percent. ** At 07:13 GMT, the yuan was quoted at 6.3017 per U.S. dollar, 0.08 percent weaker than the previous close of 6.2969. ** The largest percentage gainers in the main Shanghai Composite index were Zhongnongfa Seed Industry Group Co Ltd up 10.12 percent, followed by Henan Ancai Hi-tech Co Ltd gaining 10.1 percent and Tongwei Co Ltd up by 10.06 percent. ** The largest percentage losses in the Shanghai index were ENN Ecological Holdings Co Ltd down 10 percent, followed by Zhonglu Co Ltd losing 7.45 percent and Zhonglu Co Ltd down by 7.39 percent.

** About 15.33 billion shares were traded on the Shanghai exchange, roughly 69.4 percent of the market's 30-day moving average of 22.08 billion shares a day. The volume in the previous trading session was 25.64 billion. ** As of 07:14 GMT, China's A-shares were trading at a premium of 29.39 percent over the Hong Kong-listed H-shares. ** The Shanghai stock index is below its 50-day moving average and below its 200-day moving average.

(Reporting by Shanghai Newsroom; Editing by Kim Coghill)ZURICH, Feb 12 (Reuters) - The Swiss blue-chip SMI was seen opening 1.2 percent higher at 8,783 points on Monday, according to premarket indications by bank Julius Baer .

The following are some of the main factors expected to affect Swiss stocks.

CLARIANT Clariant CLN.S has halted plans to issue an update of its strategy after an activist investor sold its 25 percent stake in the Swiss speciality chemicals maker to Saudi Basic Industries Corp (SABIC) 2010.SE last month. Additionally, CEO Hariolf Kottmann told Basler Zeitung the SABIC deal beats what had been a proposed merger with U.S. based Huntsman. For more news, click on CREDIT SUISSE The Swiss bank faces a U.S. class action lawsuit over $1 billion in writedowns it took in 2015 and 2016 linked to its trading division, Swiss newspaper SonntagsZeitung reported on Sunday, but the Swiss bank said the case was "without merit". For more click BREITLING

The new chief executive of Switzerland's Breitling watch company said he has ended advertisements with some featuring women in shorts and flight suits catering to pilots of World War II-era fighter planes on grounds they were inappropriate. VONTOBEL Vontobel must pay 13.3 million euros ($16.25 million) in a deal with German authorities over untaxed assets, an agreement the Swiss private bank said on Friday completes its efforts to rectify past mistakes. For more news, click on NESTLE The foodmaker said on Friday that it was buying a majority stake in organic food maker Terrafertil. For more news, click on COMPANY STATEMENTS * Roche said a Phase II study demonstrated the potential of a new eye drug for diabetic macular edema. * ALSO proposed raising its dividend to 2.75 Swiss francs after the computer supplier increased net profit by 11.2 percent to 92.5 million euros in 2017. * SGS said it had bought SIT Skin Investigation and Technology Hamburg, a German company which had revenues of 3 million euros ($3.68 million) in 2017. * Comet said its full year net income rose 35.5 million francs. * Meyer Burger said it won a contract from REC Group. * Bossard Holding said it has entered into a partnership with Cosanum to supply hospitals, nursing homes and home care organisations. * SHL Telemedicine said Xuequn Qian is leaving the board less than a year after his appointment, meaning he will not fulfill his three-year term. ECONOMY * The Swiss National Bank is due to release data on sight deposits at 0900 GMT.

* Swiss Consumer Price data is due to be published by the Swiss Federal Statisstics OFfice at 0800 GMT.

(Reporting by Zurich newsroom)

Daily Swiss stock market report in German................ All SMI constituent stocks............................ News on major Swiss stock price moves.................. FTSE Eurotop 300 index................................ DJ STOXX index........................................ Top 10 STOXX sectors............................. Top 10 EUROSTOXX sectors........................ Top 10 Eurotop 300 sectors....................... Top 25 European pct gainers... , losers... Swiss mid-cap index SMI futures Swiss all-share index Market statistics Swiss market digest Sector overview All Swiss news Swiss research news All equity news INTERNET ADDRESSES: Swiss Exchange / Eurex STOXX Ltd SPEED GUIDES: ))

Keywords: MARKETS SWISS STOCKS/OSLO, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Norway's central bank gave the following result of an auction for its NST 39 treasury bill on Monday. Allotment Price 99.8270 Yield (percent) 0.50 Alloted Volume (billion crowns) 4.000 Total volume of bids (billion crowns) 8.090 The Norwegian central bank said the allotment rate on the lowest accepted bids was 76 percent.

(Reporting by Oslo newsroom)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.BANGKOK, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Thailand's central bank said on Monday it had asked financial institutions not to get involved in cryptocurrency transactions for fear of possible problems from the unregulated trading.

Banks are prohibited from investing or trading in cryptocurrency, offering cryptocurrency exchanges and creating platforms for cryptocurrency trading, the central bank's governor, Veerathai Santiprabhob, said in a circular.

They are also banned from allowing clients to use credit cards to buy cryptocurrency, and from advising customers on investing or trading in cryptocurrency, the bank said.

The central bank said cryptocurrencies were not legal tender in Thailand and it was worried that they may be used in illegal activities such as money laundering or supporting terrorism.

(Reporting by Kitiphong Thaichareon; Writing by Orathai Sriring; Editing by Robert Birsel)ISTANBUL, Feb 12 (Reuters) - The Turkish Treasury sold a net 484.4 million lira ($127.31 million) in a tap of its 10-year CPI-indexed bond at an average compound yield of 2.96 percent on Monday, central bank data showed. It also sold a net 2,430.6 million lira in a tap of its five-year fixed coupon bond at an average compound yield of 12.47 percent and a net 119 million lira in new issuance of a 10-month, zero-coupon bill at a yield of 13.39 percent. ($1 = 3.8088 liras)

(Writing by Ezgi Erkoyun; Editing by David Dolan)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.(Adds context, details)

LONDON/SHANGHAI, Feb 12 (Reuters) - British business-to-business information company Euromoney has agreed to sell its Global Markets Intelligence Division (GMID) to a Chinese consortium of CITIC Capital Partners and leading business news outlet Caixin for $180.5 million, it said on Monday.

Euromoney said proceeds of about $145 million would leave the company in a net cash position and provide it with funds to help grow its activities in pricing, asset management and telecoms.

Private equity firm CITIC Capital acquired the GMID business in partnership with Hong Kong-based Caixin Global, the overseas arm of Caixin Media.

Caixin Global said on its website the deal was the biggest offshore purchase ever by a mainstream Chinese media company and would help Caixin as it "aspires to build up a global news and information platform to rival similar offerings from companies like Bloomberg, Thomson Reuters and the Economist."

Hong Kong-headquartered GMID provides financial intelligence on emerging markets including China, India and Brazil. Its two main units are CEIC and EMIS, which provide economic data, news and analytics.

The purchase is expected to close in the first half of this year, Caixin said.

Euromoney is 49.1 percent-owned by Daily Mail & General Trust Plc .

Caixin described itself as "privately-owned and more entrepreneurial" than its state-owned peers. It is funded by private backers including CMC Capital Partners.

(Reporting by Sarah Young in London and John Ruwitch in Shanghai, Editing by Paul Sandle and David Evans)(Adds quotes, detail)

By Tom Miles

GENEVA, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Global trade in goods will continue growing above trend during the second quarter, the World Trade Organization's quarterly outlook indicator showed on Monday.

The indicator, a composite published since the third quarter of 2016, showed a reading of 102.3, compared to 102.2 last November.

All the indicator's seven components were positive except for trade in electronic components, which fell to 94.1 from 103.3 in the previous quarter, possibly indicating a weakening of consumer sentiment, the WTO said in a statement.

"Growth is still above trend," WTO economist Coleman Nee told Reuters.

"The recovery of 2017 seems to be extending into the first quarter of 2018 at least, based on things like strong export orders, strong air freight and container shipping and other indicators. So it seems like there hasn't been any slackening of momentum."

The strongest component of the index was container port throughput at 104.3, its highest score since the WTO began publishing the indicator.

The WTO has forecast overall growth in world goods trade in a range of 1.4 percent to 4.4 percent this year, most likely around 3.2 percent, compared to an estimated 3.6 percent in 2017. Those figures, published last September, were based on IMF economic growth projections that have since been upgraded by 0.2 percentage points, to 3.2 percent in 2017 and 3.3 percent in 2018. The WTO will update its 2018 trade forecast in April.

Trade disputes and international trade friction do not much affect the overall global trade picture, Nee said, since they tend to affect a particular sector in a particular country, and if one source of goods is restricted, importers often simply switch to alternative sources for the same goods.

A very wide-ranging dispute or a tit-for-tat battle could still create uncertainty and sap economic growth, but that would be visible in a GDP slowdown rather than directly in trade statistics.

"Trade friction between countries can throw sand in the gears of the global economy," Nee said.

(Reporting by Tom Miles; Editing by Toby Chopra)CAIRO, Feb 12 (Reuters) - The average yield at auction on Egyptian one-year dollar-denominated treasury bills fell to 3.295 percent on Monday from 3.346 percent at the previous sale on Jan. 8, the central bank said. The bank accepted bills worth $1.075 billion. Appetite for Egypt's domestic debt has grown since the central bank devalued the pound currency in November 2016 as part of a deal for a $12 billion International Monetary Fund loan.

(Reporting by Patrick Werr; editing by John Stonestreet)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.Home improvement category leads top 10 consumer complaints in 2017









Out of the 3,599 complaints The Division of Consumer Affairs recovered both services and funds for Tennessee by working with consumers and businesses. This was a decrease compared to 2016 when 4,432 complaints were reviewed by Consumer Affairs.



The Division of Consumer Affairs works alongside partnering agencies to foster a positive consumer-to-business relationship in Tennessee. The Divisions staff works to quickly route complaints so that appropriate action can be taken in cases where deceptive business practices, frauds or scams are found to be at play.



For 2017, here are the top 10 complaint categories, number of complaints per category, and descriptions of each category:



Home improvements: 412 complaints

This category includes home warranties, as well as hiring a contractor for services to repair or improve the quality of your home. The most common complaints related to quality of work, incomplete work after receiving payment, and structural damage caused by employed individuals or businesses. Many of these complaints are referred to the Board for Licensing Contractors, Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) as well as the Tennessee Regulatory Authority (TRA).



Personal/Professional Services: 292 complaints

This category relates to services offered by licensed professionals working in the State of Tennessee, including hair stylists, massage therapists, nail technicians, and others. Common complaints include the quality of service, charges for service not received, and problems redeeming gift certificates for services offered. Some agencies these complaints could be referred to include TDCIs Division of Regulatory Boards and Board of Professional Responsibility.



Utilities: 289 complaints

This category includes gas service, water service, sewer, electricity, landline phone service, mobile phone service, Internet service, and cable. Problems with billing and maintenance were the most common complaints. Often, these complaints will be referred to the TRA or the investor-owned utility.



Timeshares/Vacation Clubs: 274 complaints

This category relates to consumers purchasing property under a timesharing agreement and the sale of these agreements. The most common complaints reported high-pressure sales tactics, misrepresentation of the contract, and resale scams. The Division will often refer these complaints to the Tennessee Real Estate Commission and the Board of Professional Responsibility.



Landlord/Tenant: 216 complaints

This category relates to consumers leasing rental property in the State of Tennessee. The most common complaints related to security deposits and the conditions of the rental property. These complaints are most often referred to the THDA, city and county building codes enforcement, and TDCIs Fire Prevention/State Fire Marshals Office.



Motor Vehicle: 202 complaints

This category often includes consumer dissatisfaction with the sale of the used vehicle they purchased. Problems with used vehicle sales and advertising were the most common complaints. Consumer Affairs often works closely with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Commission when handling these types of complaints. In addition, these complaints may be referred to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Tennessee Department of Revenue.



Debtor/Creditor: 196 complaints

This category includes matters related to debt collection companies, payday loans, credit repair companies, and check-cashing services. Consumer complaints often related to harassing phone calls or billing issues. These complaints are often referred to the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions.



Health Services and Products: 191 complaints

Consumers most common complaints include being misquoted for services and inaccurate billing. The Division will refer appropriate complaints to the Tennessee Department of Health.



Motor Vehicle Repair: 184 complaints

This category refers to companies offering services to repair vehicles. Most consumers report auto repair companies that return vehicles not fully repaired. The Division will refer to and work with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Commission, the NHTSA, and the Tennessee Department of Revenue.



Insurance: 172 complaints

This category relates to pet insurance, consumer health insurance, and unlicensed insurance companies. Most consumers complained about policy coverage and claims. These complaints are often referred to TDCIs Insurance Division.



A consumer may have a private right of action under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977. The Division of Consumer Affairs is prohibited from giving legal advice or representing private individuals. If you feel that you need legal assistance, consider contacting a private attorney, the Tennessee Legal Aid Services website, or other organizations that may offer legal guidance. For more consumer resources, or to file a complaint, visit the TDCI Division of Consumer Affairs website at



TDCI protects the interests of consumers while providing fair, efficient oversight and a level field of competition for a broad array of industries and professionals doing business in Tennessee. Its divisions include the State Fire Marshals Office, Insurance, Securities, Consumer Affairs, Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, Regulatory Boards, Tennessee Emergency Communications Board, Tennessee Corrections Institute, and TennCare Oversight.



To check a license of a professional regulated by the Department, visit





NASHVILLE  The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurances (TDCI) Division of Consumer Affairs received 3,599 complaints in 2017 which fall into the top 10 complaint categories for 2017 by Tennessee consumers. For the second consecutive year, the home improvements category ranked as the No. 1 complaint category with more than 400 consumer complaints.Out of the 3,599 complaints The Division of Consumer Affairs recovered both services and funds for Tennessee by working with consumers and businesses. This was a decrease compared to 2016 when 4,432 complaints were reviewed by Consumer Affairs.The Division of Consumer Affairs works alongside partnering agencies to foster a positive consumer-to-business relationship in Tennessee. The Divisions staff works to quickly route complaints so that appropriate action can be taken in cases where deceptive business practices, frauds or scams are found to be at play.For 2017, here are the top 10 complaint categories, number of complaints per category, and descriptions of each category:This category includes home warranties, as well as hiring a contractor for services to repair or improve the quality of your home. The most common complaints related to quality of work, incomplete work after receiving payment, and structural damage caused by employed individuals or businesses. Many of these complaints are referred to the Board for Licensing Contractors, Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) as well as the Tennessee Regulatory Authority (TRA).This category relates to services offered by licensed professionals working in the State of Tennessee, including hair stylists, massage therapists, nail technicians, and others. Common complaints include the quality of service, charges for service not received, and problems redeeming gift certificates for services offered. Some agencies these complaints could be referred to include TDCIs Division of Regulatory Boards and Board of Professional Responsibility.This category includes gas service, water service, sewer, electricity, landline phone service, mobile phone service, Internet service, and cable. Problems with billing and maintenance were the most common complaints. Often, these complaints will be referred to the TRA or the investor-owned utility.This category relates to consumers purchasing property under a timesharing agreement and the sale of these agreements. The most common complaints reported high-pressure sales tactics, misrepresentation of the contract, and resale scams. The Division will often refer these complaints to the Tennessee Real Estate Commission and the Board of Professional Responsibility.This category relates to consumers leasing rental property in the State of Tennessee. The most common complaints related to security deposits and the conditions of the rental property. These complaints are most often referred to the THDA, city and county building codes enforcement, and TDCIs Fire Prevention/State Fire Marshals Office.This category often includes consumer dissatisfaction with the sale of the used vehicle they purchased. Problems with used vehicle sales and advertising were the most common complaints. Consumer Affairs often works closely with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Commission when handling these types of complaints. In addition, these complaints may be referred to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Tennessee Department of Revenue.This category includes matters related to debt collection companies, payday loans, credit repair companies, and check-cashing services. Consumer complaints often related to harassing phone calls or billing issues. These complaints are often referred to the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions.Consumers most common complaints include being misquoted for services and inaccurate billing. The Division will refer appropriate complaints to the Tennessee Department of Health.This category refers to companies offering services to repair vehicles. Most consumers report auto repair companies that return vehicles not fully repaired. The Division will refer to and work with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Commission, the NHTSA, and the Tennessee Department of Revenue.This category relates to pet insurance, consumer health insurance, and unlicensed insurance companies. Most consumers complained about policy coverage and claims. These complaints are often referred to TDCIs Insurance Division.A consumer may have a private right of action under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977. The Division of Consumer Affairs is prohibited from giving legal advice or representing private individuals. If you feel that you need legal assistance, consider contacting a private attorney, the Tennessee Legal Aid Services website, or other organizations that may offer legal guidance. For more consumer resources, or to file a complaint, visit the TDCI Division of Consumer Affairs website at tn.gov/commerce/section/consumer-affairs or call 800-342-8385.TDCI protects the interests of consumers while providing fair, efficient oversight and a level field of competition for a broad array of industries and professionals doing business in Tennessee. Its divisions include the State Fire Marshals Office, Insurance, Securities, Consumer Affairs, Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, Regulatory Boards, Tennessee Emergency Communications Board, Tennessee Corrections Institute, and TennCare Oversight.To check a license of a professional regulated by the Department, visit verify.tn.gov Published February 12, 2018









Trump's FY 2019 budget request asks for $39.3 billion





WASHINGTON -- The Presidents FY 2019 budget request proposes $39.3 billion for critical State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) efforts to advance peace and security, expand American prosperity and influence, and address global crises while making efficient use of taxpayer resources. The budget request modernizes State Department and USAID diplomacy and development to advance a more secure and prosperous world by helping to support more stable and resilient societies that will lead their own development and, ultimately, no longer need foreign aid.



The budget request supports the Presidents America First vision with a commitment to four key national priorities:





Protecting Americas Security at Home and Abroad:



Sustaining Support for Efforts to Defeat ISIS and Other Violent Extremist Organizations: Supporting efforts to defeat ISIS and violent extremist organizations while addressing the conditions that these groups seek to exploit, including poor governance, weak institutions, lack of economic opportunity, corruption, and persistent human rights abuses with $5.7 billion. This includes continued support for security in Afghanistan and Iraq, and sustains protection of our personnel and facilities overseas as well as to combat disinformation as part of the effort to defeat ISIS. Assistance also supports the needs of displaced religious minorities in the Middle East and North Africa.



Upholding Commitments to Our Allies: Supporting the recent 10-year Memorandum of Understanding between the U.S. and Israel, this request provides $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing for Israel. It also recognizes the critical U.S. strategic partnership with and support for Jordan by providing $1.3 billion in economic and security assistance.



Prioritizing Programs that Counter Critical National Security Threats: Leading international efforts with $127 million to prevent North Korea, Iran, and other states and terrorist actors from unlawfully acquiring weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, while strengthening the capacity of partner nations to do so as well.



Protecting our Borders: Supporting our border security and Consular service with $3.8 billion for fee-funded programs and personnel that secure our borders through enhanced visa vetting, preventing fraud, improving visa processes, and enabling the conduct of international business by facilitating legitimate foreign travel to and from the United States.



Reducing Illegal Immigration: Providing $1.1 billion for Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean to break the power of transnational criminal organizations and networks; help shut down illicit pathways for irregular migration and goods; and address insufficient economic opportunity, weak governance, and inadequate security, all of which drive irregular migration.



Protecting U.S. Overseas Personnel and Facilities: Providing $5.4 billion for the protection of our U.S. government personnel and facilities overseas, including security for the U.S. presence in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Administration is also prioritizing funding for a U.S. Embassy facility in Jerusalem which will begin once design and construction plans are finalized.





Renewing Americas Competitive Advantage for Sustained Economic Growth and Job Creation:



Strengthening Democratic Governance and Standing against Corruption: Dedicating $1.4 billion in assistance to fight against corruption and support efforts that promote democratic governance principles, such as rule of law, transparency, and accountability.



Mobilizing the Private Sector and Reforming U.S. Development-Finance: Supporting activities that promote economic growth and engage the private-sector in developing nations to advance U.S. national-security interests; support development outcomes; and support U.S. companies, jobs, and exports. This includes providing $56 million for programming at USAID in support of the proposed consolidated, reformed Development Finance Institution and $15 million in new trade capacity building efforts, which will better harness and incentivize private-sector financing.



Expanding Domestic Resource Mobilization: Providing $75 million via central funding and additional bilateral resources to equip and challenge countries to mobilize and manage their domestic public and private resources more effectively, leverage other available financing sources, and sustainably lead their own development.



Addressing the Root Causes of Poverty and Hunger: Providing $518 million for food security programs that advance agricultural development to improve economic growth, reduce malnutrition, and strengthen resilience to recurrent crises, leveraging private investment, donor, and host-country contributions.





Promoting American Leadership through Balanced Engagement:



International Organizations: Funding $2.3 billion for preserving strategic participation in multilateral fora to achieve outcomes favorable to the U.S. and its allies while reinforcing the expectation that we will continue to work with the international organizations including the UN to reduce costs, improve effectiveness, and more fairly share the funding burden. Leading in Global Health Programs: Providing $6.7 billion to support U.S. leadership in advancing global health, including through the U.S. Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR); the Global Fund to Combat AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria; the Presidents Malaria Initiative; and global health security activities while simultaneously supporting efforts to help partner nations build their own capacity. With the Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance policy now in place, the Budget includes investments in family planning and reproductive health, and supports womens empowerment.



Addressing Major Humanitarian Crises: Maintaining U.S. leadership in shaping global humanitarian assistance by providing $6.4 billion, a 21 percent increase from the FY 2018 Budget request, to address complex crises, such as those occurring in Syria, Yemen, Iraq, South Sudan, and elsewhere, while also asking the rest of the world to increase their share and demanding improved performance by implementers to maximize the benefit for recipients of assistance.



Pursuing a More Balanced U.S. Share of International Spending: Setting the expectation that other donors will do their fair share to advance shared priorities, support economic growth and development worldwide, and address humanitarian crises, and holding international organizations accountable.



Informing Foreign Opinion and Engaging Foreign Audiences: Furthering U.S. foreign policy goals by providing $565 million for Public Diplomacy (PD) programs to inform foreign opinion. PD programs assist in countering misinformation about the U.S., its foreign policy and strengthen relationships between Americans and foreign publics.





Ensuring Effectiveness and Accountability to the American Taxpayer:



Strengthening the Effective Management of our People, Programs, Information, and Capital Assets: Improving business process and program design and aligning foreign assistance, policies, and resources with key strategic priorities as part of the Impact Initiative (formerly Redesign) in order to better advance American interests in a constantly changing world. Modernizing Information Technology: Investing $150 million for modernizing the State Departments information technology, including wireless and cloud-based services to provide our employees with greater mobility.



Focusing on an Effective Workforce and Leadership: Advancing leadership and modernization of the State Department and USAID workforce through the Impact Initiative. Requesting $96.2 million for Impact initiatives to develop a more flexible workforce and pursue operational management efficiencies.



Source: Dept. of State





Published February 12, 2018South Korea's President Moon Jae-in, left, and U.S. Vice President Mike Pence look at each other during the short-track speed skating events at Gangneung Ice Arena, Saturday. / Yonhap



U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said he and his "friend," South Korean President Moon Jae-in, reaffirmed their commitment to denuclearizing North Korea.

Pence met with Moon in South Korea last week when he led the U.S. delegation to the opening ceremony of the PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

"Honored to watch talented American & Korean athletes face off side-by-side with my friend, President Moon," the vice president tweeted shortly after leaving the country Saturday. "He & I both reaffirmed our commitment to the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. S. Korea stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the U.S & our allies."

The Winter Games kicked off Friday amid keen attention to the participation of North Korean athletes and their high-level delegation led by the younger sister of the regime's leader, Kim Jong-un.

The sister, Kim Yo-jong, extended to Moon an invitation from her brother to visit Pyongyang. The visit, if realized, would be the first such encounter in a decade following years of tensions over North Korea's nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs.

"I'm grateful for the strong relationship between the U.S & South Korea," Pence said in a separate tweet. "We're going to stand solidly with South Korea and with all of our allies to continue to bring the maximum pressure to bear on North Korea."

The U.S. leader vowed before and during his trip to South Korea that he would not let the North use the Olympics as a propaganda tool to cover up its human rights abuses.

He was seen avoiding direct contact with Kim Yo-jong and other members of the North Korean delegation in PyeongChang. (Yonhap)Gim Gyu-min

By Kim Se-jeong



Gim Gyu-min, 43, is a North Korean defector and a film director committed to telling stories of horrendous human rights violations in North Korea.



His most recent work, "First Step," a documentary featuring advocacy work by North Korean human rights activists from North Korea, premiered in Seoul on Saturday.



Among his previous works was "Crossing" (2008), starring Cha In-pyo who played a defector father settling in the South and unsuccessfully attempted to bring his family to the South _ which drew more than one million viewers. Part of its success can be attributed to Gim who as an assistant director took care of details based on his own experience in a concentration camp and during his defection through Mongolia to the South.



Beside "First Step," he is also working on a series of five short films, "Winter Butterflies," inspired by horrific stories he himself witnessed in the North, the country he left in 2001. The first film in the series which came out in 2013 depicted a mother who kills her son due to extreme hunger.



"I am sure this is a shocking story to many. When I was in North Korea, it wasn't anything shocking. It was normal because you see them often. Only after I settled in South Korea, I realized things like that should not happen in the human world," Gim said in a recent interview with The Korea Times.



North Korean suffered severe famine in the 1990s. And the regime in North Korea has been failing in feeding its people, instead using the money to develop nuclear weapons.



Seventeen years into his film career, Gim mastered techniques of storytelling of the lives of North Koreans but is frustrated with South Koreans' lack of interest in the North Korean human rights issue.



"I think the North Korean human rights issue is politicized in the South, used by politicians and activists who need it to gain power or win money, but in the end they're not genuinely interested in the topic."



He feels that more poignantly when he reaches out for fundraising and to movie theaters to screen his movies and when his fillms are invited for screening overseas.



"The first Winter Butterfly series was invited to screen in Switzerland at the UN. It moved many people. From then, the work was screened in the U.S., Canada, Japan, Spain and Hong Kong. I asked myself; why do so many people want to watch this outside of Korea but so few in Korea want to watch? Are they so fed up with these stories that they just deny it or what?



Luckily, the struggle hasn't made him give up on his commitment.



"What I do is stay with people who're interested, get motivated and continue my work," Gim said.



What also keeps him going is his memory of dire situations in the North and the fact that his family and friends suffered and are still suffering, a lot.



Born into a middle-class family in southern North Korea close to the South Korean border, Gim was a literary boy good at writing poems. He had the desire for acting but it never took off. He studied literature at university and was groomed to be a teacher.



He grew up listening to South Korean radio as a boy and that turned him into a dissident of the regime.



"I didn't know what listening to the radio was doing to me. But it unconsciously shaped my thoughts different from others who didn't listen."



He quit university and later destroyed a polling box during an election which got him a death sentence in an open execution. He tried to kill himself unsuccessfully and ran away from the hospital during treatment, heading to the South. He fled to China but was repatriated. In the concentration camp, he made his second attempt to escape and succeeded.



His actions cost his family dearly. His parents lost their jobs and were forced to move to a third location for having a dissident son, and his brother never got out of the military _ he later heard all his family members were killed. He arrived in the South in 2001 through Mongolia.



He pursued his dream of acting at Hanyang University from 2002 but changed his mind at the recommendation of his professor and set his course for directing.



Gim said there are so many tragic stories from North Korea which South Koreans should not turn their backs against.



"When Kim Jong-il died, I saw so many people in South Korea going crazy about the news. Three million died of hunger and people are still dying. They're also people. Please don't forget them."





By Choi Ha-young



Liberal and conservative parties showed conflicting reactions, Monday, on North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's invitation to South Korean President Moon Jae-in to visit Pyongyang.



The ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) lauded it as an achievement of the liberal Moon administration, while the conservative Liberty Korea Party (LKP) said that an inter-Korean summit without denuclearization was an "act to benefit the enemy."



"On Friday, we sent out a message of peace to the world, through the magnificent opening ceremony of the PyeongChang Winter Olympics," DPK Chairwoman Choo Mi-ae said Monday.



"The DPK welcomes the North's proposal of Moon's visit to Pyongyang with open arms. If it takes place, the summit would be remembered as the largest achievement of the Winter Games."



Choo and DPK lawmakers took part in culture event on the sidelines of the Olympics. She enjoyed a North Korean music troupe's concert in Gangneung, Feb. 8, along with the North's band leader Hyon Song-wol.



The minor liberal Party for Democracy and Peace, which is promoting the Sunshine Policy promulgated by former President Kim Dae-jung, also vowed to back up the inter-Korean summit.



On the other hand, the LKP expressed concern that the North's peace overture is likely to erode the international community's joint moves against the nuclear-armed country.



"Kim Jong-un participated in the Olympics due to the allies' pressure on the North through joint military exercise, deployment of U.S. strategic bombers and sanctions," said LKP spokesman Rep. Choung Tae-ok. "If Moon pushes ahead with the summit, the joint exercises will not be resumed and no more U.S. weapons will be deployed."



The conservative Bareun Party also criticized the government. "Citizens only know the fact that Moon met Kim Yo-jong, since the President has remained silent about the nuclear issue," spokesman Lee Jong-chul said Sunday.



The People's Party, which will merge with the Bareun Party, Tuesday, withheld judgment on the summit. "The summit itself should not be an ultimate goal. It is only meaningful when it becomes a solution to resolve denuclearization," Chairman Ahn Cheol-soo said in a press conference Monday.

By Doug Bandow





Europe is fracturing, but establishment leaders across the continent believe the answer is to suppress dissent and strengthen the European Union. So-called Eurocrats hope Germany's electoral crisis will help them move forward.



But short-term success likely would mean long-term failure. The more Europe's elite presses for stronger, consolidated continental governance, the more virulent will grow the popular opposition. The center is shrinking throughout European politics.



Germans long have favored political stability. The system seemed to work _ until last September's election. The Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (which run as one party) received barely more than a third of the vote, their lowest total since 1949. The Social Democratic Party came in at barely a fifth of the total, the least since 1933, before the Nazi Party extinguished German democracy.



The liberal (in a European sense) Free Democratic Party re-entered the Bundestag after falling below the five percent threshold in 2013. Even more significant, Alternative for Germany (AfD) scored nearly 13 percent. The AfD opposed immigration and capitalized on Germany's acceptance of a million economic migrants in 2015.



Blame for the collapsing center falls especially Chancellor Angela Merkel. She has shifted her right-leaning party leftward, effectively squeezing debate out of German politics and government.



But her reputation for being a pair of "safe hands" suffered in the aftermath of the surge in largely young, male, Muslim migrants.



After the September vote the SPD rejected proposals to renew the Grand Coalition. So Merkel initially sought to reach an agreement with the FDP and Green Party, but the former feared again having its agenda submerged in Merkel's formless centrism and pulled out of talks.



Germany faced the prospect of new elections, which likely would produce a similar result, or a minority government, with the CDU/CSU forced to seek support from opposition parties issue-by-issue. However, SPD leader Martin Schulz came under pressure to reverse course.



Despite holding the weaker political hand, the SPD dominated the negotiations. The German Marshall Fund's Thomas Kleine-Brockhoff warned that the accord "has more of a left-liberal feel to it," reading "as if governing is one big giveaway, freebies for all."



However, grassroots SPD opposition is strong and party members must approve any final agreement. If the vote is no, German politics will be in chaos, since Merkel has rejected the idea of a minority administration and current polls indicate that a new election would yield the same governing choices.



Approval might be even more dangerous in the long-term, however. The coalition prospectus is notable for its refusal to make hard choices. Germans would see little difference between nominal left and right.



The AfD would be the official opposition. The FDP, Die Linke (descendent of East Germany's communists), and Greens also would highlight their differences with the center blob.



For instance, the SPD pushed for a United States of Europe. The GroKo accord offered more rhetoric than policy, but still may drive more voters to the FDP, which ran against Brussels, as well as the AfD, which began as an anti-euro party.



Elsewhere in Europe the Eurocratic leadership attempted to force its agenda. However, every time elites run roughshod over those they supposedly represent, popular resistance grows. The longer mainstream politicians refuse to debate controversial issues, the more their publics turn to less creditable representatives, like the AfD.



Obviously, it is up to the German people to decide on their government. But Daniel Hannan, a British Member of the European Parliament, warned against what he called "cartel democracy." In Europe voters increasingly have had to turn to more extreme parties as "battering rams to smash open the old system." The AfD is acting as such an instrument in Germany.



An alternative ruled out by Merkel and Berlin's elite would be to explore a coalition with the FDP and AfD. There are good reasons to avoid empowering the latter, but the party is not fascist and is less likely to drift further right if part of a governing coalition where its views are subordinated to those of other vaguely right-leaning parties.



Instead of leading opposition against the establishment, the AfD would become part of the establishment and bear responsibility for the results. Other European governments have adopted this approach.



In Germany people are tiring of cartel politics. Another GroKo might put off the crisis for four more years. But at some point the German people are likely to take charge and demand a real debate over real change. If so, the sooner that occurs, the better.





Doug Bandow (chessset@aol.com) is a senior fellow at the Cato Institute and a former special assistant to President Ronald Reagan. He is the author of "Foreign Follies: America's New Global Empire."

By Park Hyong-ki





HanmiGlobal Chairman Kim Jong-hoon / Courtesy of HanmiGlobalFlavio Briatore was sentenced to 18 months in jail by an Italian appeals court on Saturday, on tax evasion charges linked to his mega-yacht 'Force Blue'

The former Benetton and Renault F1 boss, whose yacht was seized by tax authorities in 2010, saw his sentence reduced from 23 months, despite the prosecutor pleading for a four-year sentence.

Italian investigators allegedly uncovered a scheme by which the 63-metre yacht was registered to a company domiciled in the Virgin Islands, but used exclusively by Briatore for his personal use.

The flamboyant business tycoon claims he does not own the yacht, and merely rented it from its parent company.

But as the beneficiary of the Virgin Islands off-shore entity, he is the de facto owner of 'Force Blue', and therefore must be held liable for payment of VAT taxes estimated at 3.6-million and fuel duties worth 800,000 between 2006 and 2010.

Briatore was also found guilty of issuing false invoices. The Italian's lawyers said they were deterlmined to the sentence once again.

"We take note of the judge's decision and will appeal to the supreme court. We are convinced of Mr Briatore's innocence."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and TwitterZhang Dejiang, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, presides over a meeting of the chairman and vice-chairpersons of the NPC Standing Committee, in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 11, 2018. The 33rd session of the Standing Committee of the 12th NPC is to convene from Feb. 23 to Feb 24. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

BEIJING, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- The 33rd of the Standing Committee of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature, is to convene from Feb. 23 to Feb 24.

An important task at the session is to prepare for the first 13th NPC session, to be held in March, according to a statement issued after a meeting of the chairman and vice-chairpersons of the NPC Standing Committee on Sunday.

Zhang Dejiang, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, presided over the meeting.

Participants at the February session will deliberate a report on the work of the 12th NPC Standing Committee, another on electing deputies to the 13th NPC, and one on qualifications of new deputies.

Lawmakers will also deliberate the agenda of the first 13th NPC session, the presidium and secretary-general name list, and a name list of non-voting delegates.

During the February session, lawmakers will review an amendment to a 2015 decision on pledging allegiance to the Constitution and a report on the implementation of the Seed Law.

In July 2015, the NPC Standing Committee decided that officials at all levels in government, courts and procuratorates should take a public oath of allegiance to the Constitution when they assume office.

They will also review a report on the qualifications of some NPC deputies and a motion to adjust the military's election committee, in addition to appointments and dismissals, said the statement.

[ Editor: Zhang Zhou ]Rome, February 9 - Democratic Party (PD) leader Matteo Renzi said Friday that voters must be careful not to put the country into the hands of extremists in the March 4 general election. "We are worried about the extremist turn, not just by the League," Renzi said in a question-and-answer session on Facebook. "We choose seriousness, we don't play with conflict. Shouting and screaming is easy, but we haven't played the card of smashing things up. "We say be careful not to ruin all the steps forward that we have made. "Attention about putting yourselves in the hands of extremists. "I'm hopeful that Italy cannot accept a return to the past, leaving itself in the hands of extremists and those who say let's smash everything up".Vatican City, February 12 - Pope Francis said Monday that the Church needs preachers who are ambitious about spreading their message rather than those who make do with material comforts. "We are in great need of pastors who embrace life with the breadth of God's heart, without settling for earthly satisfactions, without contenting themselves with carrying on what is already there, but always aiming high," he said during an audience with members of the Greek-Melkite Synod. "Pastors who are bearers of the High, free from the temptation to stay 'at low altitude', freed from the restricted measures of a warm and habitual life; poor pastors, not attached to money and luxury, in the midst of a poor people who suffer; coherent announcers of Paschal hope, in perpetual journey with their brothers and sisters".Rome, February 12 - Green Party chief Angelo Bonelli, a candidate for the Insieme (Together) list, called for a single European army on Monday in a Facebook-ANSA live forum ahead of the March 4 general election. "Europe is an important reference point for us at Insieme," Bonelli told the online forum. "If we hadn't had Europe, with its infringement procedures on things like water purification, many regions would not have solved their problems. "Europe is important. As a convinced pro-European, I think that a European defence model leading to a single army could free resources for (international) cooperation and to boost jobs".Rome, February 12 - The police chief in Macerata was replaced Monday, two days after an anti-Fascist march in the Marche city marking a week since a racist shooting of African migrants to 'avenge' the murder and dismemberment of a 19-year-old woman in which Nigerian drug pushers are suspected. Police chief Vincenzo Vuono has been moved to police offices in Rome and been replaced by Antonio Pignataro, until now director of the second section of the national anti-drugs directorate. Police sources said "a change of pace" was needed in the wake of events in Macerata that have shaken Italy and earned international headlines. Already, they said, an official had been sent from Rome to help decide whether to give the OK to Saturday's anti-Fascist and anti-racist march. Also, they said, another official was sent to control public order during the rally. Police stopped the far-right Forza Nuova group, which has defended racist shooter Luca Traini, from disrupting the demonstration.Macerata, February 12 - A fourth Nigerian man is under investigation in relation to the death of Pamela Mastropietro, an 18-year-old who dismembered body was found in two suitcases near the central city of Macerata last month, sources said Monday. Like the three other Nigerians who have been detained, the fourth suspect is under investigation for alleged participation in homicide, hiding a body and contempt for a human corpse. The suspect's lawyer said he was questioned by investigators in Macerata on Friday and Saturday and he had his foot and fingerprints taken. An expert will be tasked with running checks on his cell phone, the sources said. A far-right extremist went on a racist shooting spree targeting migrants in Macerata following the Mastropietro case.TRIPOLI, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Libya's eastern-based government said Sunday that it adopted a package of security measures to counter terrorist threats in the eastern city of Benghazi.

The interim government said in a statement that the cabinet and security leaders of Benghazi had tightened security measures to prevent terrorist threats in the city after an emergency meeting held with Prime Minister, Abdullah Thanni.

"The victories of the armed forces and their supporting troops in the city of Benghazi will only be valuable if security is achieved through security work.

The enemy used suicide methods to destabilize the security situation in the city," the statement said.

The government issued instructions to install cameras and surveillance systems for mosques in the city and linked them to the main Security Chamber of the Ministry of Interior.

The measures include supply of 4 explosive detection vehicles worth 12 million U.S. dollars, as well as installation of 700 cameras in the city and communications separation systems in mosques.

The officials during the meeting agreed to rehabilitate police and activate infantry forces, as well as use of police dogs.

Two people were killed and 143 wounded, including children, in an explosion that hit the inside a mosque on Friday in Benghazi.

Twin car bomb attack hit a mosque in Benghazi's Salmani district two week earlier as the worshipers exited the mosque after the night prayer, killing 34 people and injuring more than 100 others, mostly civilians.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the bombings. However, preliminary investigations say that the attacks are likely to be carried out by of terrorist organizations.

[ Editor: WPY ]Josh Clark and Melanie Lora in "Hothouse." Geoffrey Wade Photography.



The awakening of LA theater from its usual late December/early January slumber coincided this year with the first anniversary of the Trump presidency. Oddly enough, these two events aren't entirely unrelated.

Of course we've long known that Trump likes to put on shows. With the Miss Universe pageant and "The Apprentice" on his resume, reality TV seems to have been the best forum for Trump's talents.

But Trump's showmanship isn't solely for unseen audiences in living rooms He's closer to the world of the live stage during the debates and his ongoing rallies, with the audible feedback from reporters, rivals or live audiences. More recently he complained that those members of Congress who didn't applaud his State of the Union address are "treasonous." And now he's engineering another theatrical pageant, in the form of a big, shiny military parade that's expected to pass his DC hotel and his current home.

Trump displays little interest in "the theater" per se. He probably lacks the patience to sit though most plays, which would require listening to the voices of others. He prefers to create his own personal spectacles.

But in a city such as Los Angeles, it's increasingly difficult for theatrical creators to ignore Trump as much as he ignores them. A large proportion of the audience that might naturally be interested in paying for theater tickets is also devoted to keeping up with the onslaught of commentary about Trump - on TV news, TV comedy, social media, newspapers and magazines. Keeping tabs on Trump news could derail plans to see some other show outside the house.

So it isn't surprising that when some of us in this Trump-obsessed audience go to "the theater," we begin to look for a Trump angle, or imagine that we see a Trump angle, in our theatrical fare. A Trump angle helps make a theatrical event feel more immediate, more of an answer to that perennial question, "Why now?," which is something that producers are often told to ask themselves before they schedule just about any production. Open Fist Theatre is about to appeal to this impulse quite literally, opening a bill of 14 very short politically-themed pieces (probably even short enough for a Trumpian attention span) under the banner title of "One Year Later," a reference to Trump's first year.

Of course, with around-the-clock eruptions emanating from the White House, no theatrical creator can hope to keep a rehearsed production up-to-date on the very latest Trump lore. So a frequent response is to revive works that bring Trump to the mind of theatergoers without actually using any specific references to the actual Trump.

Perhaps the best use of this indirect-Trump technique right now is on display at Antaeus Theatre in Glendale, in Harold Pinter's seldom-revived "The Hothouse." A character named Roote, who supposedly runs a late-'50s British mental institution, could have trained Trump in how to be a boss. He's uninformed and incompetent but brash, narcissistic and abusive.

As I watched Josh Clark in the role, particularly in his interactions with his underlings (primarily Leo Marks, Rob Nagle and Melanie Lora), I felt as if I could have been watching a 60-year-old guidebook for the TV series that surely will be adapted, eventually, from "Fire and Fury." (As with all Antaeus productions, the roles are double cast; Peter Van Norden sometimes plays Roote).

In the first sentence of her director's note, "Hothouse" director Nike Doukas admonishes the audience to avoid reading the rest of her note until after seeing the play, because "seeing it with no expectations will enhance your experience." I guess I've just blown that strategy, by reporting my own Trumpian lens through which I saw this play, so at this point I might as well add a reflection from the rest of Doukas' note. She calls Pinter's script "the perfect play for our times. We watch as a despotic, increasingly addled, ineffectual leader gets through his day. One of his tactics is to divide and conquer, and in response, those around him scheme and scramble to maintain their footing or move up the ladder. Amazingly, Pinter accomplishes all of this with a relentless barrage of farcical, almost vaudevillian humor."

Watch out, Stephen Colbert - here comes Harold Pinter.

For those who feel uncomfortable about finding humor in what's going on in our current White House, "Cabaret" reminds us of the more grisly effects of extreme despotism. The Kander/Ebb/Masteroff musical's most chilling moment is usually the first glimpse of the swastika on someone's arm. Probably only a few Americans are regularly wearing swastikas right now, but the appearance of the torches in Charlottesville and the chants of those carrying them were enough to send similar chills up the spines of many Americans.

La Mirada Theatre's production of "Cabaret," which closed Sunday, was the first revival of it that I've seen since the events in Charlottesville. Larry Carpenter's staging is powerful. Particularly notable is the performance of Jeff Skowron as the emcee. Skowron is best known in LA theater for playing Leo Frank in the 3-D production of "Parade," but he flawlessly executes a 180-degree turn to play the Emcee, who is temperamentally the opposite of Leo Frank. When we consider that both of these characters ultimately met similar fates - Leo was lynched by good-ol'-boy anti-Semites in the South and the emcee presumably was killed by the actual Nazis - the casting of Skowron in both of these roles becomes almost eerily resonant.

At Theatre 40 in Beverly Hills, Kate Hennig's "The Last Wife" depicts a famously sexist head of state, Henry VIII (David Hunt Stafford), although the primary focus is on his final wife, Katherine Parr. The characters use modern language and wear modern costumes, so Henry and Katherine appear much more 21st-century than you might expect. Although Stafford makes no attempt to mimic Trump, I soon thought of Trump's own history of wives and affairs -- although here is at least one case where Trump can actually seem relatively enlightened, compared to his murderous historical predecessor. However, Hennig is more interested in portraying Parr as a proto-feminist who helped prepare young Elizabeth for her long monarchy. Under Flint Esquerra's direction, the play succeeds in bringing these historical figures closer to our era.

Not every current theatrical venture into Trump-adjacent territory is nearly as subtle. An adaptation of Max Frisch's post-World War II farce "The Chinese Wall" features an explicitly Trumpian interpretation of an emperor who built the Chinese Great Wall, as well as too many other famous figures from history and literature. It's a scattershot mess. So is "SAPO," a very loose adaptation of Aristophanes' "The Frogs," in a Getty Villa premiere at the museum's indoor auditorium (instead of its outdoor amphitheater), featuring two of the three Culture Clash members and the band Buyepongo. At least "SAPO" begins with a bang, using video shot from the freeway in the Sepulveda Pass during the recent fire; you can read the signs to the Getty Center off-ramp against the backdrop of the flames.

Tina Munoz Pandya, Amanda Raquel Martinez and Leslie Ann Sheppard in "Pirates of Penzance" at Pasadena Playhouse. Photo by Jenny Graham.



For those who prefer to flee from any Trump thoughts when they go to a theater, I couldn't detect many traces of him in a lively "Aladdin," the stage version of Disney's take on the tale, at the Pantages. Pasadena Playhouse has reconfigured its main auditorium in order to turn "The Pirates of Penzance," as interpreted by Chicago's the Hypocrites, into a half-immersive 21st-century beach party, complete with an in-theater bar. It's light fun, and it clearly makes a case that the playhouse welcomes younger theatergoers who won't mind dodging the movements of the actors.

Finally, Center Theater Group has launched a trilogy of related productions by Quiara Alegria Hudes with "Elliot, a Soldier's Fugue" at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City, soon to be followed by "Water by the Spoonful" at the Mark Taper Forum and "The Happiest Song Plays Last" at Los Angeles Theatre Center, in conjunction with Latino Theater Company. I'm going to withhold any comment on these productions until after I've seen all three.FROM EIR DAILY ALERT

China-Alaska $43 Billion Gas Pipeline, Export Deal Brings Hope

Jan. 16, 2018 (EIRNS)Things have been moving ahead on the Nov. 9, 2017 deal signed in Beijing between the state-owned Alaska Gasline Development Corp., Sinopec, the Bank of China and the Chinese Investment Corp. (CIC). The centerpiece of the $43 billion package is for an 800-mile gas pipeline from the North Slope, south to the Kenai Peninsula, for shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) abroad. Alaskans are speaking of hope from the mega-deal, just as did West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice, when he praised his states plans for gas and manufacturing development with China.

Alaska House Speaker Rep. Bryce Edgmon, quoted by the Peninsular Clarion in late December, said:

A pipeline project will bring jobs, investment and, perhaps most importantly, a renewed sense of hope that Alaskas best days are ahead of us, not behind.

Alaska Gov. Bill Walker hosted China President Xi Jinping last spring, when Xi stopped in Anchorage on his way home from visiting President Trump at Mar-a-Lago, Florida. Walker, who has been promoting his new pipeline and related projects, was the only governor travelling in Trumps delegation to China last November.

The timeframe for the project, is that by December 2018, the contracts, loans, and related arrangements will be finished, so construction can start in mid-2019. The deal is expected to work out so that 75% of the ultimate LNG exports will go to China, and the remaining 25% to other Alaska customers, such as South Korea and Vietnam. The planned Alaska LNG terminal will add to the list of five already under construction in the U.S., in Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, Texas, and Louisiana. The Alaska location is favorable for Asian customers.

On Dec. 22, 2017, the state of Alaska also approved ExxonMobils plan to expand oil production on the North Slope at Point Thomson. Gov. Bill Walker issued a statement at that time, saying, Our approval of the Point Thomson to Prudhoe Bay pipeline plan adds to the momentum of the Alaska LNG Project and demonstrates the commitment of the Point Thomson working interest owners to move gas from Point Thomson into the Alaska Gasline Development Corp.s 800-mile project.FROM EIR DAILY ALERT

Tillerson: Its Up to North Korea To Avoid the Military Option

Jan. 17, 2018 (EIRNS)U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson made clear at the meeting in Vancouver, yesterday, that for the U.S. "diplomacy" means keeping the pressure on North Korea until it gives in on the question of denuclearization. "We must increase the costs of the regimes behavior to the point that North Korea comes to the table for credible negotiations," Tillerson said.

"We reject a freeze for freeze approach in which legitimate defensive military exercises are placed on the same level of equivalency as the DPRKs unlawful actions,"

he went on. "The pressure campaign will continue until North Korea takes decisive steps to denuclearize."

If Pyongyang fails to respond to maximum pressure, then the military option is available, but Tillerson put the onus for that on North Korea.

"We all need to be very sober and clear-eyed about the current situation ... We have to recognize that the threat is growing and if North Korea does not chose the pathway of engagement, discussion, negotiation, then they themselves will trigger an option,"

Tillerson said.

"Our approach is, in terms of having North Korea chose the correct step, is to present them with what is the best option talks are the best option; that when they look at the military situation, thats not a good outcome for them."

The Vancouver conference on Koreasomething of an imperial absurdity where Greece and Cyprus were invited and China and Russia were nothas a likely British Commonwealth origin. It evidently originated in a mid-December meeting in Ottawa between Tillerson and Canadas intensely anti-Russia foreign minister, Chrystia Freeland. In June 2017 in Ottawa, Freeland had given a speech sounding a lot like Tony Blair, David Cameron, or Barack Obama. She argued Canada had to

"take on more responsibility for upholding a global order based on rules, that greatly benefited Canadians. This order had at its heart the core notions of territorial integrity, human rights, democracy, respect for the rule of law and an aspiration to free and friendly trade."

The next day, Minister of Defence Harjit Sajjan announced plans to increase Canadas military budget by 73% over 10 yearsleading to this weeks Vancouver discussions of Canadas navy intercepting ships trading with North Korea.FROM EIR DAILY ALERT

Chinese State Councillor Yang Jiechi Meets with President Trump

Feb. 10, 2018 (EIRNS)Chinese State Councillor Yang Jiechi met today with U.S. President Donald Trump and with Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law who is a close advisor to the President. Councillor Yang also had a meeting with National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster and with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. Conveying to the President the sincere regards of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Yang said the two nations should manage and control their disputes and sensitive issues properly, and implement the consensus reached by Trump and Xi during their meeting last November in Beijing. The two Presidents had agreed during their Beijing meeting that China and the United States have wide-ranging common interests and significant responsibilities in securing world peace, prosperity and stability, Yang said.

Trump conveyed his sincere regards to Xi, saying U.S.-China relations are very important, and Washington is willing to strengthen cooperation with Beijing to further promote bilateral ties. Describing his state visit last November to China was a huge success, Trump said that, I agree that both sides should fully implement the consensus and achievements I reached at the meeting with President Xi. He also said that the United States is willing to strengthen cooperation with China and push for more positive progress in bilateral relations. Yang also urged the two sides to increase cooperation in dealing with the North Korean nuclear issue.FROM EIR DAILY ALERT

China Puts Its Money Where Its Mouth Is on Funding of Basic Science

Feb. 11, 2018 (EIRNS)Chinas Ministry of Science and Technology announced Feb. 11 that the governments financial support for research and development in basic sciences doubled over the last five years, from about $6.5 billion in 2011 to $13 billion in 2016.

A spokesman for the Ministry stated that the percentage funding for basic R&D has reached the level of developed countries. State funding accounts for most of the investment in basic science, as financial input from businesses and other forces of the society remains low. In reporting on the announcement, Xinhua noted that the emphasis on basic science is national policy:FROM EIR DAILY ALERT

Putin Says Major Scientific Projects Unite and Mobilize, Become Engines for Moving Forward

Feb. 11, 2018 (EIRNS)At a Feb. 8 meeting of Russias Council for Science and Education in Novosibirsk, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is actively involved in preparations to set up these [international scientific] centers, such as the Large Hadron Collider in Switzerland. However, we need to establish such centers of our own. He endorsed the idea of setting up such a center in Novosibirsk: I believe thats the right idea. We will be sure to think about this and implement this project. Putin stated:

We need to continue boosting cooperation with other countries and increase the openness of our science.... The most important thing is that the path to science should begin for young people during their school years.

Putin mentioned mega-science projects that have been launched in Gatchina, Dubna, Troitsk, Nizhny Novgorod and Novosibirsk, and said:

This sort of infrastructure should become the basis for large-scale research programs, and the center of scientific cooperation for the entire Eurasian space.... As regards big projects, we need large-scale undertakings in the country as a whole. They normally unite and mobilize and become engines for moving forward.

Also of note was President Putins visit to Siberia this past week, during which, on Feb. 8, he congratulated scientists in the Academy of Sciences on Russia Science Day. This year is the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Siberian Branch of the Academy. In 1958, on the initiative of the scientists, this now-largest branch of the Academy was founded at a great distance from European Russia, and in an isolated region with large areas with virtually no population, for testing the Soviet Unions new arsenal of nuclear weapons. The closed cities in the east housed some of the most advanced scientific and military projects in the world.

During his trip, President Putin visited the Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics in Novosibirsk. He toured the laboratories and met with students at Novosibirsk University. The institute, named for scientist Gersh Budker, was established in May 1958 as one of the first scientific institutes of the Siberian Branch of the Academy. The Budker Institute conducted groundbreaking research in an array of directed-energy technologies, such as ion and plasma beams, for the Soviet Unions missile defense program, as outlined in the U.S. Labor Party 1977 pamphlet commissioned by Lyndon LaRouche, Sputnik of the Seventies: The Science Behind the Soviets Beam Weapon. Today, the focus of the 2,800 researchers at the institute is on high-energy physics, plasma physics, and controlled thermonuclear fusion research.

President Putin also held a meeting with scientists from the Siberian Branch of the Academy, who presented proposals for new large-scale scientific experiments, and appeals to the President to modernize laboratory facilities, and embark on a series of great projects in science. Valentin Parmon, chairman of the Siberian Branch, told the President that Russia has not implemented a single major research project in recent decades, and stressed that it was important to do in order to provide fertile ground to make sure our young people stay in Russian science.FROM EIR DAILY ALERT

Syrian Downing of Israeli Fighter Jet Was Designed To Send a Message

Feb. 11, 2018 (EIRNS)The Chinese news agency Xinhua emphasized in a Feb. 10 report on the events surrounding the Syrian downing of an Israeli fighter jet, that there have been many Israeli strikes inside Syria over recent yearsnearly 100 strikes in five years, according to former Israeli Air Force Commander Amir Eshel, the Jerusalem Post reportsbut this is the first time that Syria responded with more than denunciations and threats. This indicates, Xinhua states, that Syria will no longer tolerate the repeated Israeli attacks on its military positions.

Xinhua quotes Maher Ihsan, a Syrian political expert, saying that its a message that Syria will no longer accept the hit-and-run attacks by Israel. The wire also quotes Osama Danura, a member of the Syrian government delegation to the Syrian talks in Geneva:

It has two messages: The first is that the Syrian air defenses are now on a high-level readiness in comparison with previous years, and the second is about the availability of the political will of the Syrian leadership, reflected by the victories of the Syrian army and its recapture of most of the Syrian areas.... Today marks the first time that an Israeli warplane has been shot down probably since the downing of an Israeli F-14 in 1986 over Lebanon.

In other words, there is a new strategic reality on the ground in the region, as a result of Russias support for Syrias successful defeat of ISIS.

It is noteworthy that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promptly got on the phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, to assert Israels right to self-defense, but also to transmit a message to Syria, Iran, and Hezbollah that Israel does not want the crisis to escalate. An Israeli military spokesman also stated Feb. 10 that,DUBLIN, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Clarity and urgency are needed from London on Brexit as time is running out, said the Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar here on Sunday.

Talking in a local TV program, Leo Varadkar said that it is 20 months since the Brexit referendum and people still don't know what the British government wants Brexit to mean.

He said Britain needs to make a decision on what relationship it wants to have with the European Union(EU) after its withdrawal.

"The UK is due to leave the EU in March 2019. It's a little over a year away and I think we need clarity and urgency from London," he said.

Varadkar said he understood the frustration expressed by the EU's chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier after the latest round of the Brexit talks last week.

Barnier said at a press conference in Brussels after last week's talks that any solution on the issue of the border must be precise, clear and unambiguous.

The chief negotiator also expressed unhappiness with the progress of the on-going Phase-II Brexit talks since the conclusion of the Phase-I talks in December.

Asked to comment on the remarks made by Barnier at last week's press conference that Britain's decision to leave the EU single market and customs union will mean checks at the Irish border are "unavoidable", Varadkar said that "The difficult part, and it was always going to be the difficult part, in Phase II is the commitments and guarantees around the avoidance of a hard border."

"What we're trying to do... is ensure that what was agreed in December is now stitched into the legal text of the withdrawal agreement," he said.

The Irish border issue is one of the three main concerns in the first-phase Brexit talks. Britain has assured in the first-phase Brexit talks that there will be no hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland after its departure from the EU. Ireland is the only EU member state that shares a land border with Britain's Northern Ireland.

[ Editor: WPY ]FROM EIR DAILY ALERT

Xi Jinpings Report to the 19th CPC National Congress Has Been Translated into Ten Languages

Feb. 11, 2018 (EIRNS)In an effort to make widely available the Chinese Presidents historic presentation at last years 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the government has announced its publication in 10 foreign languages. The book, published by the Foreign Languages Press, is now available in English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Russian, Arabic, Portuguese, Vietnamese, and Lao, Xinhua reported. Delivered on Oct. 18, 2017, the 66-page report was entitled Secure a Decisive Victory in Building a Moderately Prosperous Society in All Respects and Strive for the Great Success of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.

This is the document that, because of its importance, Schiller Institute President Helga Zepp-LaRouche read extensively from in her Feb. 10 Introduction to the LaRouche PAC class series on What Is the New Paradigm? It is also the document which Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recommended that participants in the Jan. 23 China-CELAC Economic and Trade Cooperation and Business Forum study:The U.S. Air Force plans to phase out its B-1B and B-2 bomber fleets as the new B-21 bomber, currently being built in Palmdale by Northrop Grumman Corp., becomes operational in the mid-2020s.

That would leave the Air Force of the future with the B-21 and the aging B-52 Stratofortress bomber, which first became operational in 1952, during the Truman administration. Both the B-1B and the B-2 are decades younger, faster and present smaller radar targets than the B-52. But the older plane can carry a lot of weapons and its far cheaper to operate.

Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson said in a statement Monday that the service will update its B-52 bombers, which like the B-2 and B-21 can carry nuclear weapons. She said the Air Force would fund development of replacement engines for the B-52 and that it would continue to modify the B-1B and B-2 aircraft to keep them relevant until the B-21s come on line.

The timeline of the planes retirement will depend on the B-21 production and delivery schedules.

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The news was first reported Sunday by trade publication Aviation Week.

The Air Forces active bomber fleet is currently comprised of 75 B-52s, 62 B-1Bs and 20 B-2s. The service has said it plans to buy 100 B-21s by the mid-2030s for at least $80 billion, though the exact amount is classified.

Mark Gunzinger, senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments, said the move to phase out the B-1Bs and B-2s is likely budget-driven. The Air Force needs to modernize and reinvest in a number of its key assets, including its fighter jets, bomber forces and unmanned systems, and that is a daunting challenge.

But he said the phase-out would exacerbate an already-existing shortage in long-range strike capability.

Premature retirement of viable long-range strike weapons is just going to make that problem worse, Gunzinger said. I would keep the B-2s as long as they have useful operational lives. I would try to get every year I can out of them.

Originally envisioned as a fleet of 132 nuclear-capable bombers, the Air Force ended up getting only 21 B-2 aircraft as costs increased and the Cold War ended, leading to questions about why the aircraft was needed. The B-2 was ready for combat by 1997.

That small number of planes meant that the cost per flying hour is more expensive than that of the other two current bombers. But Gunzinger said a lot of money has been put into the B-2 over the years to improve their capabilities. Stealth maintenance and technology has improved over the years, but overhauling a B-2 bomber has traditionally been a major, and costly, task.

Even the conventional bomber B-1B, which was ready for combat in 1986, is newer than the B-52. Gunzinger said there have been several discussions over the years about replacing the B-52s engines to decrease maintenance costs and increase fuel efficiency, a plan that could cost $7 billion or more.

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From a strategic perspective, from a force planning perspective, prematurely retiring bombers doesnt make sense, he said.

Gen. Robin Rand, Air Force Global Strike Command commander, said in the Monday statement that the B-52 has a projected service life through 2050 with an adequate sustainment and modernization focus that would help the plane continue to be a key part of the bomber enterprise well into the future.

samantha.masunaga@latimes.com

Twitter: @smasunaga

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UPDATES:

11:25 a.m.: This article was updated with confirmation from the Air Force of the B-1B and B-2 phase-out plan.

This article was originally published at 10:10 a.m.President Trump repeatedly has declared his unwavering commitment to improving healthcare and lowering drug prices.

On Monday, he unveiled a $4.4-trillion budget plan that pointedly avoids taking meaningful steps to accomplish those goals. Instead, it offers tepid half-measures that are little more than Band-Aids for problems requiring major surgery.

Trumps plan calls for capping how much seniors pay annually for prescription drugs, making generic meds free for low-income seniors and allowing Medicare beneficiaries to share in any rebates offered by drug companies to the middlemen that negotiate costs on behalf of insurers and pharmacies.

Most of these ideas would require acts of Congress, so that kind of ends the conversation right there. In the 2016 election cycle, the pharmaceutical industry contributed nearly $63 million to candidates on both sides of the aisle, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.

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Trumps plan also sidesteps the most obvious and effective measure for tackling sky-high drug prices: allowing Medicare to negotiate directly with drugmakers.

Republican politicians have consistently shot down any such move, believing, correctly, this would significantly impinge on the drug industrys ability to rake in profits by fleecing the sick.

Nor does the plan allow for reimportation of drugs manufactured in the United States and then sold for far less abroad than to Americans. Republicans also have resisted Democratic proposals to allow Americans to legally buy meds from abroad.

But Trumps plan does seek $554 billion in cuts to Medicare spending over 10 years, plus about $250 billion in cuts to Medicaid spending.

So his healthcare policy seems to be: Dont get sick.

This is not an ambitious plan for lowering drug prices, said Geoffrey Joyce, a pharmaceutical economist at USC.

The White House doesnt want to take on the drug industry, he told me. They just want to be able to say that theyre doing something.

Mick Mulvaney, the White House budget director, told reporters last week that lowering drug prices is a top, top priority for the president.

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That would be the same Mick Mulvaney who, while also serving as interim director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, has been systematically eliminating consumer protections.

He was joined at the briefing by Trumps new Health and Human Services secretary, Alex Azar, a former drug industry executive. He said Trump wants to increase the ability of the government to get a good deal.

If so, hed unleash Medicares market power by allowing the program to haggle prices on behalf of its 55 million beneficiaries. But Azar said during his confirmation hearing that letting Medicare flex its muscles would harm seniors by limiting their access to certain medications.

I dont believe we want to go there in restricting patient access, he said.

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Yes, lets go there, says AARP, the nations largest advocacy group for seniors. Its time to let Medicare negotiate lower drug prices and reduce barriers to global price competition by allowing for the safe importation of lower-priced drugs, the organization says.

Trumps budget plan would expand catastrophic drug coverage under Medicare Part D so that seniors would pay less out of pocket in the event of serious illness. But its unclear where the money would come from for this improved benefit, especially in light of extensive cuts to the program.

Equally questionable is how the federal government would force so-called pharmacy benefit managers to pass along a greater share of rebates to consumers.

The PBMs would fight that tooth and nail, USCs Joyce said.

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And spending caps for some branded drugs covered by Medicare? Under this business-friendly Congress? Who are we kidding?

Ellen Albritton, senior policy analyst with the healthcare advocacy group Families USA, told me that if Trump and lawmakers were serious about reducing drug prices, theyd require more transparency from pharmaceutical companies.

Such openness would go a long way in revealing the huge markups imposed by drugmakers, often with no economic justification other than a willingness to gouge patients with whatever price the market will bear.

None of these latest proposals get at the root of the problem, Albritton said. They just paper over things.

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A 30-page report last week from Trumps Council of Economic Advisors blamed pretty much everyone except drug companies for crazy-high drug prices.

Bizarrely, it said other nations are partly to blame for U.S. drug pricing because those countries set their own prices too darn low, forcing drug companies to rely on Americans for a disproportionately large share of their inflated profits.

The report also said drug prices are sometimes artificially high due to government regulations, which undoubtedly was music to the pharmaceutical industrys ears.

This is the same industry that spent a reported $7 million last year on a PR campaign titled Go Boldly, aimed at convincing people that drug companies care mostly about helping society.

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Patients know better, which is why they can only marvel at the greed and arrogance of an industry that routinely doubles or triples the prices of branded drugs even as the number of patients using that drug increases.

In other businesses, economies of scale would lead to prices going down in such situations. Laptops and TVs, for example.

A poll last year by the Kaiser Family Foundation showed that 92% of Americans favor allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices. Seventy-eight percent want caps on drugs for costly illnesses such as hepatitis and cancer. And 86% say drug companies should have to provide information to the public explaining how a drug price was set.

Its pretty simple. Other developed countries regulate drug prices, and take advantage of the governments purchasing power, because they understand that you dont treat the sick as profit centers.

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For all his bluster about drug prices being too high, Trump has done little but posture and make empty gestures.

Its well-known what has to be done to bring drug prices down.

But this president, and this Congress, will not bite the hand that feeds.

David Lazarus column runs Tuesdays and Fridays. He also can be seen daily on KTLA-TV Channel 5 and followed on Twitter @Davidlaz. Send your tips or feedback to david.lazarus@latimes.com.Ildiko Enyedis inner voice had wavered. She had lost herself. After finding early success, the Hungarian director, a romantic with a sly streak, had not released a film in 18 years, a fallow stretch she once likened to a laid-off steelworker having nothing to hammer or shape.

Filmmaking is like a dance with the world, she said. You have to feel the world around you, as if a partner. You can surprise the partner, but still you need a synchronicity, and somehow it felt I didnt have it then. Writing scripts, fighting for financing. Failing. Trying again for financing and failing, and then sitting down again, and writing a new one.

She paused.

My center of gravity had moved.

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Enyedis On Body and Soul, nominated for an Academy Award for foreign language film, is the imaginative return of a director who celebrates our flaws  life is richer than perfection  and our capacity to heal one another. The film, which takes place in a slaughterhouse and a winter forest, is the tale of two lovers who meet in a shared dream they try to carry back to the waking world. It is at once magical and sobering, a meditation on our hushed whims and desires, and the slights and insecurities we daily endure.

It has interested me always is to understand the human condition, not connected to one place or moment but to look at What the hell is this? said Enyedi, whose film is streaming on Netflix. Its a burning question for me. Again and again, I am shocked and humbled by what people are capable of in cruelty and in compassion. We have all this inside us.

The film centers on Endre (Geza Morcsanyi), financial manager of the slaughterhouse, and Maria (Alexandra Borbely), a quality control inspector. Endre has a withered arm; Maria is mildly autistic. They pass yet rarely speak. But in the dream world of the forest, they are two deer in love. This subconscious, mystical escapism is balanced by the scoured, clinical precision on the abattoirs killing floors. Amid industrial death and the mundane duties of work life, the couples imperfections and longings spin like whispers, reflecting passions and weaknesses we all carry.

My intention, said Enyedi, the only woman director nominated in the foreign category, was to show that, even if its not perfect  because we are hunting something always perfect and if its not then we throw it away. But its not bad if its not perfect. They continue to be difficult people. They continue to struggle with a lot, but they are not anymore alone and its worth a fight to cherish it.

Enyedi, 62, is a small woman with a ponytail, dark-rimmed glasses and a backpack. The other day she traveled to the Netflix offices on Sunset Boulevard and found herself in the Star Trek room, which, given her aesthetic, presented an irony that amused her. She spoke in soft, concise sentences, as if one had stumbled upon the musings of an intellectual in an old Budapest cafe. There is no pretension about her, but when a strong idea strikes, she punches the air with a petite fist and smiles. When asked if she was a romantic, she replied: Oh, yes, wildly.

Her debut film My Twentieth Century (1989) won the Camera dOr at Cannes. The tale of twin orphans who went separate ways  one a seductress, the other a revolutionary  the movie is a provocative and humorous exploration of modern civilization. Other films, including Simon, the Magician followed and then Enyedi disappeared from the cinema, writing un-produced scripts, raising two children and teaching at the Film School in Budapest. She eventually signed on with HBO Europe for the Hungarian remake of In Treatment, a series about a therapist and his patients.

Somehow that healed me, said Enyedi, who later received funding for On Body and Soul, which last year won the Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival.

Hungarian filmmaker Ildiko Enyedi, photographed Feb. 6 in Los Angeles, is nominated for a foreign language film Oscar for On Body and Soul, her first film in 18 years. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times )

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The film is a more fable-like take on post-communist Eastern Europe than the social-realism of other directors, notably Romanians Cristian Mungiu and Cristi Puiu. Much of their work is an unflinching examination of the failed communist state and the legacy of corruption and disillusionment it stamped on younger generations. There is a hint of that in On Body and Soul, but Enyedis playful eye is less concerned with the grit of political sins and social consequences than with timeless elements of personal renewal.

I adore their films, she said of her Romanian counterparts, but I am more distant from the moment in which we live. My burning questions are different.

The pulses and pressures of life  gadgets, screens and virtual worlds  have turned us inward but often not introspective. The clamor of populists and nationalists have not soothed or reassured, and many, including Enyedi, are seeking meaning in things more analog. The dream sequences in On Body and Soul ring with a crisp purity  snow, a stream, a foggy thicket  that echo the naturalist writings of Henry David Thoreau.

Now just a walk in the woods becomes treasured, she said. I have children ages 22 and 26. I see in their generation a reevaluation of values. In Budapest there are cafes and gatherings, where 200 people sit together and play board games. I see the signs of a big breakthrough on lifes priorities. There is this puppet theater of politics, but fewer and fewer people are listening to it.

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Such sentiments have influenced her art. She has long been concerned with the philosophies, idiosyncrasies and the folly of who we are and how we live, but these days she is less a filmmaker speaking directly to the audience than a director intent on letting the seams in her work vanish.

My first film was mosaic-like. I wanted to show as many colors as possible, she said. But in Body and Soul my main purpose was to make a distillation of many thoughts and feelings and be as simple and transparent as possible and step back as an auteur and let the film breath and connect with the audience. To put all the work in it and make it disappear.

Much credit goes to her cinematographer, Mate Herbai, who caught a series of quiet, telling moments, including breadcrumbs being brushed from a table, that lasted a few seconds but defined the evolving relationship between Endre ( Morcsanyis first film-acting role) and Maria (Borbely won best actress for at the European Film Awards for her performance). Herbai, she said, waited for the light to shift, to see the scene from a different vantage point.

Its a tiny thing but the whole film is full of these tiny things, said Enyedi. He [Herbai] wasnt just thinking in a visual style. He was thinking about the core, the essence of the moment we were shooting. It is so rare to know the hidden heart of a scene.

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On Body and Soul, like many foreign language films, was relegated to the art house genre, a description that suggests it may be too peculiar and elusive for mass appeal. Before its Academy Award nomination, the film did not have a theatrical opening in the U.S. Netflix, which began streaming it this month, making it available to millions of subscribers, gave it a limited in New York and Los Angeles, where it is playing this week at Laemmles Monica Film Center. Enyedi is happy for that but, with a petite fist striking the air, insists that small films from far-away places have more resonance than theatrical distributors think.

My film is concrete proof that a low key, tender, very simple film can reach out to so many audiences. Everywhere I go, from Korea to Norway, it is working on people directly. It shows that what distributors say about what audiences need is simply not true. People are much more sensitive, patient and open.

See the most-read stories this hour 

Twitter: @JeffreyLAT

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jeffrey.fleishman@latimes.com

ALSO

Americas anxious times made it a banner year for villains and bad guys in movies and TV

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Cheech Marin is cool with pot and Americas middle, but dont get him started on Atty. Gen. Jeff SessionsAs the Me Too movement movement intensifies its look at the oftentimes abominable treatment of women in Hollywood, female filmmakers are devising ways to make changes.

Last month at Sundance, 37% of the festivals 122 feature films were directed by women  a stat amplified by an abundance of panels focused on women in film. At the Women in Film panel The Road to 50/50, four female filmmakers discussed the disparity of representation in their industry, and in the process offered an unofficial road map for progress.

Hire women

Its a simple concept  increase the number of women represented in film by hiring more women.

So whats holding people back? One possibility is criteria, suggests Stephanie Allain, producer of Leimert Park, which premiered in Sundances new indie episodic section. A search for candidates with the most impressive backgrounds typically discounts those who havent yet been given a chance. Her solution? Alter the standard for employment.

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I used to say, I want to hire the best people for the job, Allain said. Then I realized by saying that, I was looking at metrics that were like, Who has the best resume? Who has the most awards? Whos done the most work? And typically, those were all men  and most of them were white men. So I stopped saying that and started to say, I want my sets to be diverse with all kinds of people, and I want to find the best of all kinds of people.

Its important that if youre going to tell a story about a black woman, there better be a black woman somewhere in the room. Mel Jones

Diversity on sets can also be key in lending more authenticity to a film.

Its important that if youre going to tell a story about a black woman, there better be a black woman somewhere in the room, Mel Jones, director of Leimert Park, said.

That need for diversity exists at the decision-making table too, before and after a film has been given the greenlight.

Recalling an occasion just two years ago, Liz Destro  a producer of the dramatic competition selection Lizzie  was asked to fetch coffee during a buyers meeting. She happened to be the only woman in the room.

Now when I go into the buyers meetings, theres women there.

Destro credits the existence of female financiers in those spaces with the possibility of making a female-driven movie like hers, which stars Chloe Sevigny and Kristen Stewart in a story about the infamous Lizzie Borden.

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All we can do is hire women and encourage others to hire women.

Put your money where your mouth is

Talk is cheap, as the old adage goes. Conversation about the need for female representation in the film world continues to grow. But Amy Adrion  director of the documentary Half the Picture, which examines the struggles faced by female directors  argues that the stats still dont accurately reflect the fact that women make up 50% of the population. Action is necessary.

I think once you have more female agents and people of power, youre going to have them fighting for women as much as men. Its great that Mark Wahlberg donated his $1.5 million [from the All the Money in the World reshoots] to the Times Up campaign  as well he should  but I hope he told his agent, Why dont you fight for your female clients the way you fight for me? 

Hollywood is a business, Adrion said. And like all businesses, it wont invest in something that doesnt return a profit.

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But these shows make money, she said.

Jones believes that technology can help prove that point by looking at metrics and raw data to see what types of films connect with audiences.

It empowers women to do a lot more without having to wait for permission.

All we can do is hire women and encourage others to hire women. Liz Destro

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Pay it forward

The first movie I ever made was because of a mentorship, Jones said. The film Dear White People was executive produced by Allain  the woman sitting next to her.

Allain argues that mentorship is important, but its not the end-all-be-all to the parity problem. That type of change, she said, comes once the culture as a whole has evolved. She highlights ReFrame, a program she founded to help create that type that of change.

Still, in the fight for equality, she believes diverse representation is a start.

We know that when women are gatekeepers  whether theyre department heads or directors or producers  theyre keeping that door open for other women.

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2018 Sundance Film Festival  On Now Video: Adapting 'Hamlet' for a woman's point of view in 'Ophelia' On Now Video: 2018 Sundance Film Festival Boomerangs On Now Video: A behind-the-scenes look at the 2018 Sundance L.A. Times photo/video studio On Now Video: The makers of 'Half the Picture' discuss women's tenacious quest for visibility as directors 2:21 On Now Video: Franchesca Ramsey on her new digital series 'Franchesca' 1:24 On Now Video: Chris Elliot on passing down humor to his children 2:41 On Now Video: The Kronos Quartet premieres its live documentary On Now "The Kindergarten Teacher" shows something many movies don't On Now Video: Filmmakers share thoughts on the future of women in film, the U.S. and storytelling On Now Video: The filmmakers of "Madeline's Madeline" on women directors 2:22

colleen.shalby@latimes.com

Twitter: @cshalby

ALSO:

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Ruth Bader Ginsburg on her new Sundance documentary, her #MeToo revelation and SNLs Gins-burn

Riding with Jane Fonda to the Sundance Film Festivals Respect Rally

Gloria Allred discusses shooting a film about herself and women gaining their voiceWomenswear designer Christian Siriano, the most successful alumnus of Bravo reality show Project Runway to date, used his fall 2018 runway show Saturday afternoon to celebrate his labels first decade. It was a 22-minute-long, 72-look, glamour-packed extravaganza themed loosely around the notion of a royal dinner party.

Over the last 10 years, Siriano has deftly made his line the go-to for inclusiveness  gender-wise as well as size-wise  without it being deemed a plus-size label. The regal-themed collection that filled the Grand Lodge Room of the Freemasons Grand Lodge of New York reflected that design diversity, serving up colors, cuts and sparkly embellishments for women (and a few men) in sizes that ranged from rail thin to super curvaceous.

Sirianos show notes cited British art of the late 18th century  specifically the collection on display in the Queens Gallery in London  as an inspiration for the collections fabrics and silhouettes, which ranged from nude-colored turtleneck body suits (covered in a scribbly all-over script that resembled the signature on a royal decree) to voluminous floor-length faux-fur coats and ruched tulle ball gowns.

In between, there were all manner of wraps, drapes, clings, shiny things and a few pieces of over-the-top headgear (by Betto Garcia). In addition to an emphasis on regal red throughout the collection, royalty-inspired touches included diaphanous capes that trailed behind turquoise chiffon gowns; curlicues of mirrored sequin armor on coats and cocktail dresses; and wide, sparkly bands of crystals that graced several of the more glammed-out looks at the collar and shoulders, recalling the embellishments that might encircle a monarchs crown. 

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Some of the more memorable pieces were ones that played with volume. Some accented curve-hugging dresses with frills that ran down the shoulders and along the arms. And lets not forget about the red-carpet-worthy gowns formed from crepe and cascading tulle that resembled wearable bouquets of roses.

A constellation of celebrity friends and clients were on hand to help Siriano celebrate, resulting in one of the weeks most eclectic front-row lineups, with i Laverne Cox, Cardi B, Molly Shannon, Whoopi Goldberg, Meg Ryan, Jamie Alexander and Nastia Liukin among them.

Theyd probably agree that the decade-long reign of Siriano the Inclusive has been as good for the subjects as for the monarch. Long live the king.

adam.tschorn@latimes.com

For more musings on all things fashion and style, follow me at @ARTschorn.KUWAIT CITY, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Kuwait on Sunday underlined the importance of hosting the International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq (KICRI) and Conference against the Islamic State (IS).

The Kuwaiti Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah called on all friendly countries as well as international organizations to meet in Kuwait and support the efforts in rebuilding Iraq.

At a press conference held on the sidelines of the opening of the KICRI media center, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah said Kuwait host these events to support Iraq and stand by its side.

The minister noted that this comes in line with the principled stance of Kuwait to stand by neighboring Iraq, congratulating at the same time Iraq on its recent victories in liberating its territory from the grip of the IS, which is a danger not only to the region but also to the whole world.

He said that broad participation in these events gives it a great importance and is a message from the international community regarding its commitment to the security and stability of Iraq and its commitment to the reconstruction of its liberated areas.

He hoped that these conferences, efforts and activities will achieve its objectives, adding that since "they have made tremendous efforts to win in time of war, we all must exert greater efforts to win in time of peace."

The three-day KICRI is due to kick off on Monday and the ministerial meeting of the International Coalition against the IS will be held on Feb. 13.

[ Editor: WPY ]An 84-year-old woman in rural Northern California has a date with the county judge next month after authorities said she fired a gun at her neighbors children for being too noisy.

On Friday evening, Betty Frances Sanders and her husband approached the fence that divides their property from their neighbors in Anderson and began arguing over the neighbors kids, the Shasta County Sheriffs Office said in a statement.

The three children, between 8 and 10 years old, had been riding motorcycles and were generally being noisy when Sanders and her husband approached their neighbors to complain, authorities said.

An argument ensued and Sanders shot one round from her gun toward her neighbors children, who were about 20 feet away, the Sheriffs Office said in a statement. According to a log of the incident, one neighbor could hear the bullets going over her childrens heads and called police. No one was injured, officials said.

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Deputies found Sanders at her home and, after an interview, arrested her and found the gun, authorities said. She was booked on suspicion of assault with a firearm and child endangerment.

She posted $50,000 bail with a preliminary court date in March, officials said.

joseph.serna@latimes.com

For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter.As Los Angeles politicians face mounting pressure to combat the homelessness crisis, the City Council is weighing two measures aimed at clearing obstacles to getting more people into housing.

But the proposed laws have stirred up concerns among critics who fear they will muzzle neighbors or concentrate homeless housing into specific neighborhoods.

One measure would allow permanent supportive housing projects to avoid a review process that can drag out a year or more and expose the projects to public battles with opponents.

The proposed law would slash parking requirements and allow homeless housing projects of up to 120 units in much of the city  and as large as 200 in downtown and some other areas  to avoid environmental review and public hearings as long as the projects meet certain requirements. Under current law, housing projects with 50 units or more have to go through a more exhaustive process.

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Housing advocates say the measure would give a crucial boost to the citys goal of building 10,000 new units for homeless residents in a decade, by easing the approval process and encouraging the construction of bigger buildings.

Council members are also considering a measure that could make it easier to temporarily convert motels into homeless housing, which has been touted as a more immediate way to get people off the streets. City officials hope that by removing zoning restrictions, they will encourage struggling motels to contract with county-funded programs to get people housed.

Its an existing source of housing. Its available right now, City Atty. Mike Feuer said. We need to just do it already.

A row of tents in a homeless encampment line South Beaudry Avenue in downtown Los Angeles. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times )

Public grows impatient

Both measures are being vetted by a City Council committee Tuesday. As tents pop up from San Pedro to Winnetka, politicians face growing impatience from Angelenos who approved a $1.2-billion bond for homeless housing construction, as well as a countywide tax for homeless services.

A lot of people have asked, and rightly so, why isnt homelessness gone  I voted for those new measures, Mayor Eric Garcetti said before the annual homeless count last month, pledging to double the pace of building affordable housing in the city.

But if Garcetti is worried about backlash from voters who see little change on L.A. streets, he also faces critics who believe the city is going too far, depriving residents of a chance to voice their concerns about housing projects.

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Reams of letters have been sent to city planners over the proposed rules to ease the way for permanent supportive housing, many of them from Venice residents alarmed about homeless housing being considered for city sites.

Christian Wrede, a founding member of the community group Venice Vision, called it an anti-democratic measure that would allow powerful politicians and developers to disenfranchise working families and get around the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act.

Wrede said Venice residents are willing to help house the homeless, but its just not right for us to have all these protections stripped away.

Planning officials helped craft the proposed laws to carry out a citywide plan to address homelessness, which calls for L.A. to relax some of its rules to facilitate housing construction for homeless people.

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Between 2008 and 2016, fewer than 2,400 permanent supportive housing units were built in Los Angeles. Nearly two-thirds of those projects had to undergo city vetting that can extend the process, according to a city report.

In August, lawmakers sided with opponents of a Boyle Heights project that would house dozens of mentally ill homeless people after the owners of a neighboring shopping center challenged its environmental clearance.

Our politicized planning system currently allows a few opponents to delay or halt badly needed homes even when large majorities of voters support new housing, Mark Vallianatos and Ezra Gale of the advocacy group Abundant Housing LA wrote in a letter to city planners.

At dawn, a homeless man walks around Venice Beach wearing a blanket. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times )

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Eliminating parking to save money

Many builders have tried to avoid delays by making their housing projects small enough to avoid a process called site plan review, which requires an environmental review and can also trigger a public hearing. Tommy Newman, public affairs director for the United Way of Greater Los Angeles, estimated that process can delay construction as much as a year and a half.

Under one of the proposed laws, builders could steer clear of that process if they meet certain standards for how homeless housing is designed, constructed and operated.

All of the units must be affordable. At least half must be provided to homeless tenants. They must be located in zones where dwellings with multiple units are allowed  and generally must be in designated areas where public transit is frequent or readily accessed. And they cannot eliminate more units than they create.

The city would also allow such homeless housing projects to be built higher or denser than otherwise allowed. And some zoning rules would be loosened. For instance, developers would not need to build parking spots for apartments set aside for homeless tenants, who are less likely to own cars.

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Every parking space costs between $20,000 to $40,000, said Ann Sewill, vice president of health and housing for the California Community Foundation, a major funder of the bond to pay for homeless housing. If we get rid of 100 spaces, that saves us millions of dollars.

Attorney Jamie T. Hall, who represents Venice Vision and another group concerned about the ordinance, complained that the new law would impose a one-size-fits-all approach on communities with different needs. Parking, for instance, might still be needed for formerly homeless tenants in some areas, he argued.

That is really poor planning, he said. You need customization of projects to meet the needs of particular communities.

The City Council would still have leverage over housing projects because developers would need a letter of acknowledgment from the local council member before getting funds from the housing department. And homeless housing projects could still face additional review at City Hall if they sit in the coastal zone or other designated areas with their own requirements, city planners point out.

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The Rev. Richard Reed runs First to Serve, which provides homeless housing with on-site staff at a former motel on Figueroa Street. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times )

Other barriers would remain

Even if the law passes, many other barriers, such as high costs for land and labor, would remain for groups trying to build homeless housing, said Laura Lake, co-president of the nonprofit Coalition for Veterans Land, which is trying to develop permanent supportive housing for female homeless veterans and their children.

All of these regulatory changes dont change those facts, Lake said. Those are the true barriers.

Housing developers can also run into obstacles when they want to turn aging motels into homes, city officials say.

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Trying to change how a building is used can spur the city to check whether it is in line with current zoning rules, which may have changed since the building was constructed. That, in turn, could require the building to undergo a lengthy process to change the rules.

Under one of the proposed ordinances, motels that are being temporarily converted into homeless housing would not have to be brought into line with the current zoning rules.

It would also allow the buildings to avoid any zoning problems if they are turned back into motels in the future. And the proposed law also allows refrigerators and other cooking facilities to be installed in guest rooms, which is now barred for buildings built after 1963.

To participate, motel owners have to agree to lease out their building for homeless tenants. City officials say the proposed rules are aimed at making it easier for motels to partner with nonprofits that are tapping an existing pool of county funds for rent subsidies.

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As long as a contract is in place, former motels could continue to provide housing for homeless people, whether for shorter or longer stays.

So far, the proposed ordinance has not stirred up the same debate as the other law, but some residents in areas with clusters of motels, such as Sylmar, have raised concerns that their neighborhoods could end up with a disproportionate amount of homeless housing.

Natalie Purnell sits in her room at a former motel in South L.A. that is temporarily being used to house homeless women, run by the nonprofit First to Serve. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times )

Would motel owners participate?

It is unclear how many motels may be converted if the proposed rules are approved. There are nearly 400 motels with more than 10,000 guest rooms across the city, according to a city analysis of assessor data.

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At one meeting in South Los Angeles, more than 100 people showed up to learn about motel conversions, city officials said.

Motel owners are sometimes reluctant to sell the buildings that have been their livelihoods, but leasing them to a nonprofit allows them to hold on to the property and get regular income, said Joe Patel, a motel owner and former president of the Apartment Assn. of Greater Los Angeles.

Even better, he said, there are so many happy souls.

A few years ago, Patel made an agreement with the nonprofit First to Serve to lease one of his buildings in South Los Angeles.

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The onetime motel on Figueroa Street houses dozens of formerly homeless women and children, who sleep in simple rooms furnished with dressers and televisions and eat dinners of chicken enchiladas and chili downstairs.

The program, which includes case managers and other staff on site, is funded by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, said the Rev. Richard Reed, the executive director of First to Serve. Women stay for a few weeks or a few years, paying nothing for their rooms.

The goal is to help them save enough money to move in somewhere else, said Christina Verjan, program manager at the site.

Natalie Purnell said she was out and about, bouncing between family and motels, before she landed a shared room at Patels former motel a year ago.

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Ive had my share of shelters and transitional living, she said. This is a palace compared to the other ones.

The Rev. Richard Reed, right, talks with Joe Patel, who owns the motel building that Reeds nonprofit leases for homeless housing. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times )

emily.alpert@latimes.com

Twitter: @AlpertReyes

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doug.smith@latimes.com

Twitter: @latdougLos Angeles police are asking for the publics help in finding a man who reportedly attacked an elderly woman in Koreatown, leaving the 85-year-old with a cracked skull and badly bruised face.

Police said Mi Reum Song was walking on the sidewalk when a man approached her and hit her. At a news conference Monday afternoon, LAPD Capt. David Kowalski said Song was struck in the head and face before she fell unconscious.

The suspect is described as a 35-year-old man, about 5 feet 5 and 150 pounds, according to the LAPD. Kowalski said police obtained a video from a nearby smoke shop that shows a man running away.

The man is a person of interest, Kowalski said.

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He was clearly running from that area, he said. That elevates the probability that he was probably involved.

Police said Song was not robbed, but noted that there have been multiple attacks on elderly people in the area before.

Somebody saw this crime. It happened in the middle of the day in one of the busiest parts of Los Angeles, Kowalski added. Please have the courage to come forward.

In a Facebook post that has been shared thousands of times since Sunday, Songs granddaughter, Yujin Ko, said her grandmother was on the sidewalk near Olympic Boulevard and Vermont Avenue when she was struck in her head by an unknown assailant.

The attack occurred between 2 and 3 p.m. Saturday, Ko said.

There seemed to be no motive as he had no relation to her nor did he take any of her belongings, Ko wrote. Photos show Song with a knot in the middle of her forehead and both eyes swollen shut with deep purple bruising. A brown medical wrap is covering the top of her skull, which Ko said was split open.

She told me to let this go because she wants to forgive the man that did this but I can not and I am livid, Ko wrote, pleading for witnesses who may have seen the attack to call police.

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In the least, let this be a lesson to everyone living in this area to please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. You cant be too safe, she said.

joseph.serna@latimes.com

sarah.parvini@latimes.com

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UPDATES:

7:45 p.m.: This article was updated with the name of the victim.

3:30 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details from a police press conference.

This article was originally published at 9:50 a.m.Laguna Beach police shot a woman after she got out of her car carrying a handgun, authorities said.

Dispatchers received multiple calls around 2:40 p.m. reporting a woman making suicidal statements, Sgt. Jim Cota said. One reported that the woman was armed with a gun.

Two officers responded to the 100 block of St. Anns Drive, a dead-end street that leads to a stairway to St. Anns Beach, where they approached the woman sitting alone in her car.

Shortly after, the woman exited her car holding a gun, Cota said. One of the officers opened fire, striking her. Paramedics arrived and took her to a nearby trauma center for treatment.

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Cota would not disclose the womans name but said she is in her 30s.

It is not clear whether the woman pointed her weapon at officers before she was shot. Laguna Beach detectives, along with the Orange County district attorneys office, are investigating the incident.

alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com

Twitter: @AleneTchekScattered showers are likely in Los Angeles through Wednesday, but the light rains wont do much to alleviate a dry start to the year, the National Weather Service said.

Between a quarter- to a half-inch of rain is expected to fall in the region between Monday and Wednesday and forecasters predict there will be even less rain than that in Northern California, where places such as San Francisco, San Jose and Santa Rosa all have observed the warmest start to the year on record.

No surprises here - 2018 is off to warm start across the region. Some locations including San Francisco, San Jose, & Santa Rosa all have observed the warmest start to the year on record. #CAwx #climate pic.twitter.com/hh8h2l6e24  NWS Bay Area (@NWSBayArea) February 11, 2018

Lucky areas may get more than a half-inch, said David Sweet, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard. That isnt going to amount to a hill of beans as far as relieving our precipitation deficit. The impact, or lack thereof, is zero.

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The weather services climate prediction center, which issues three-month outlooks for precipitation and temperature, didnt have particularly good news either. For February, March and April, the center is forecasting lower-than-average precipitation and higher-than-average temperatures for Southern California.

The greatest amounts of rain will fall south of Point Conception and could include brief periods of heavier rainfall. The weather service warned that heavier showers may cause minor mud and debris flows in recent burn areas.

Still recovering from Januarys deadly mudslides, Santa Barbara County authorities are monitoring the storm system that is expected to dump light rain over the barren hills charred by the Thomas fire. But the predicted rains are nothing like the heavy rainfall that triggered the massive and deadly debris flows in Montecito last month, forecasters said.

Here's a look at high-resolution model radar through this evening for #SoCal. Minimal showers anticipated except maybe more organized rain and mountain snow showers later this afternoon in Los Angeles County. #LAWeather #CAwx pic.twitter.com/KVz3YZmxVg  NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) February 12, 2018

Its not even enough rain to cut down on the fire danger in the area, because a quarter- to half-inch of rain is not enough to moisten the fuels enough to prevent the possibility of rapid fire growth, Sweet said. Later on this week, we are expecting another Santa Ana wind event, and that would serve to dry things out.

Betsy Knaak, executive director of the Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Assn., said she is crossing her fingers that the small storm will bring much needed rain to the region.

Even half an inch of rain would make a difference in the desert, she said. The region is much drier than last year, but weve been known to have what we call a March miracle, she added. Rainfall in January and February is the main driver of spring flowers.

The area hasnt seen rainfall since January, when a winter storm that brought heavy rainfall to the coastal areas and mountains gave Borrego Springs its first rain of the winter season, Knaak said.

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Cooler temperatures caused by the storm will bring snow levels down to around 4,000 feet. Snowfall began Monday morning at the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, with 2 to 4 inches of snow falling on the slopes by 10 a.m.

The forecast is calling for showers to continue this morning and then to pick up again later this afternoon, the resort wrote on its website. Old man winter isnt going anywhere.

Despite that, Sweet said he doesnt expect the storm to make much of a difference in Northern California either.

This storm is targeting this area, and this area will have the greatest potential for rain  as small as it might be, he said.

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UPDATES:

3:05 p.m.: This article was updated with information about Borrego Springs.

This article was originally published at 10:30 a.m.For once, a mass shooting seemed to create a bipartisan consensus  rare in the polarized debate over gun control  that something had to change.

In the days after a gunman killed 58 people at an outdoor country music festival on the Las Vegas Strip in October, members of Congress set their sights on bump stocks, devices that allow a semiautomatic firearm to mimic a fully automatic one.

Lawmakers called for more regulation of bump stocks and even outright bans. They vowed  Democrats and Republicans alike  to make the issue a legislative priority.

But that was then.

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Four months after the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history, Congress has not acted on bump stocks, while states and local governments have moved to limit the sale and possession of the devices.

In Massachusetts, which has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, the Democratic-controlled Legislature passed a measure in November banning bump stocks, becoming the first state to pass such legislation in the wake of the Las Vegas shooting. Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, filling in for Gov. Charlie Baker, a fellow Republican, signed the bill into law.

Those who owned a bump stock before the Massachusetts law took effect must contact local law enforcement and hand over the device for destruction or face criminal charges.

This is battlefield weaponry that has no place in society at all, said Massachusetts state Rep. David Linsky, a Democrat, who championed the legislation. We had to do something.  Too often Congress does not act on these issues, so its left up to the states. These devices are killing machines.

Last month, New Jersey lawmakers passed a bill banning the sale and possession of bump stocks. The legislation gives gun owners 90 days to surrender their bump stocks. Licensed firearm manufacturers and retailers have 30 days to turn over the devices to law enforcement. It was signed into law by outgoing Republican Gov. Chris Christie. He offered no public comment as to why he supported the legislation.

Several other states, including Connecticut and Washington, are also considering bump stock bans.

Municipalities have taken action too.

In December, City Council members in Columbia, S.C., approved an ordinance banning within city limits the use of bump stocks and trigger cranks  small devices that fit over the trigger and can fire a weapon multiple times with a single turn. Under the ordinance, however, it is still legal to own bump stocks and trigger cranks, as long as they are stored in separate containers from firearms.

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Denver City Council members last month passed a measure that will make it illegal to sell, carry, store or possess bump stocks.

For some council members, the issue is deeply personal. The Denver metro area is home to some of the worst mass shootings in U.S. history. In 1999, 12 students and a teacher were killed at Columbine High School in Littleton. And in 2012, 12 people were killed and 70 others were injured in a shooting at an Aurora movie theater.

Denver City Councilman Albus Brooks called the measure harm reduction for the community.

This is about reducing the damage a mass shooter can inflict.  Is the ban going to stop the next mass shooting? I dont know, Brooks said. But Im certain it will help save lives because someone wont be able to essentially fire an automatic weapon.

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Calls for greater regulation have followed most mass shootings in recent years, but various proposals  such as more thorough background checks  have repeatedly failed to gain traction.

But the Las Vegas shooting stood out not only for the carnage  hundreds wounded along with the 58 dead  but because of how Stephen Paddock carried out his rampage. It took only about 10 minutes. In the aftermath, bump stocks were seen as a way of getting around the National Firearms Act, which mandates strict federal regulation of automatic weapons.

Last October, in the days after the shooting, the National Rifle Assn.  which steadfastly opposes stricter gun controls  indicated a willingness to compromise on bump stocks. The group said it believes that devices designed to allow semi-automatic rifles to function like fully-automatic rifles should be subject to additional regulations. At the same time, it called on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, which authorizes the sale of bump stocks, to implement tougher rules.

Last week, a spokeswoman for the NRA said the group stood by its statement. The NRA said new rules, rather than legislation, were the best way to regulate bump stocks, so when a bipartisan group of lawmakers in Congress presented federal legislation to ban bump stocks, the NRA voiced opposition, labeling it, among other things, an infringement on 2nd Amendment rights. The legislation, spearheaded by Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California, has stalled.

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While state and local measures to address bump stocks continue to progress, manufacturers of the devices have faced a flurry of lawsuits in recent months. Texas-based Slide Fire Solutions, which created bump stocks, is named in several lawsuits filed in the wake of the Las Vegas shooting.

Christine Caria was at the Route 91 Harvest music festival working as a vendor selling cowboy boot accessories. She was trampled trying to flee as Paddock rained bullets down onto the crowd from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay hotel.

The gunfire was coming from everywhere, Caria, 50, said. It was automatic fire  no stopping at all. Bullets were flying all over the place.

Caria traveled to Washington last fall to meet with lawmakers in support of Feinsteins bill. Shes dismayed it has stalled, but is also optimistic about the efforts afoot in states around the country.

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This will be something I will fight for.  There needs to be bans, she said. State by state, Ill work to make sure these devices are off the streets. Theyre not needed.

kurtis.lee@latimes.com

Twitter: @kurtisaleeAcross the steep hills and hollows of this remote Appalachian county, many do not trust what flows out of their faucets  if anything flows at all.

Sometimes they get no water. Other times just a trickle. Often, they say, their water is so discolored it resembles milk or Kool-Aid or beer.

I havent drunk the water in years, said Jessica Endicott, 35, general manager at Family Dollar in Warfield, a tiny town on Martin Countys eastern edge. I dont cook with it. I dont boil eggs with it. I dont even feel safe bathing in it.

(@latimesgraphics )

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Water outages and boil-water advisories have long plagued this rugged former coal mining region on the eastern tip of Kentucky, where more than half a century ago President Lyndon Johnson launched his war on poverty. Frequently, water bills here come with warnings  notifying residents the water contains high levels of disinfectant byproducts that could, over time, increase their risk of liver and kidney problems and cancer.

A lot of rural Kentuckys water issues are due to one of Americas most talked-about problems: crumbling infrastructure. For years the water district here has been losing more than 50% of its treated water to aging, leaky pipes  which can also allow untreated groundwater to seep in.

President Trump has promised gleaming new roads, bridges, highways, railways and waterways all across our land, and the White House is expected Monday to outline details of its plan to generate at least $1.5 trillion in infrastructure improvements. But experts say it is unlikely the federal government will invest in rebuilding the kind of infrastructure that has become a public health hazard in impoverished, out-of-the-way communities like Martin County.

People see bridges, but water pipes are hidden underground and nobody sees them, said Gail Brion, a professor of environmental engineering and health at the University of Kentucky who specializes in water treatment. Theres no question that people need to have safe, clean water. The issue is, whos going to pay for it?

In the last month, tension in Martin County ramped up after the water district shut off flow to more than a thousand residents for days because an intake pump and service pipes froze during severely cold weather.

As residents in this sparsely populated pocket of Appalachia struggled  some boiling rainwater to bathe and melting snow to flush toilets  local schools canceled classes for three days and volunteers fanned out to deliver bottled water to the sick and elderly.

County officials declared a state of emergency and sought permission from the state to raise water rates by 49%.

People here are just enraged theyre being asked to pay more for water that they cant drink  for water thats only suitable for flushing commodes, said Gary Ball, a 64-year-old former coal miner and editor of the Mountain Citizen, a weekly newspaper that has doggedly chronicled the water districts water violations, pump failures, and unsanitary conditions over the last two decades. Its nasty, nasty water.

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Local officials have sought to reassure residents the water is drinkable and that discoloration is not necessarily a sign it is unsafe: cloudiness, for example, can occur when air becomes trapped in water, and does not typically affect water safety.

But suspicion of local leaders is rife in this rural county of about 12,000, where nearly 40% of residents live below the poverty line and fewer than a third of those over age 16 are employed.

Those on the other side of the hill  a term used to describe those who live east of the county seat of Inez and other far-flung areas  say they bear the brunt of deteriorating water service lines while officials have devoted substantial public funds to flashy new offices and government buildings.

The new Martin County Government Center in Inez, Ky. (Jenny Jarvie / For The Times )

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Frustrated, many have taken to the internet, posting photos of Mason jars full of milky liquid and bathtubs of blue-tinted water, and swapping anxious notes on ailments they suspect are caused by contaminated water.

My hands are splitting open under my nails and my knuckles, Pamela Blevins, 49, a retired nurse who lives in Tomahawk, wrote on the Martin County Water Warriors Facebook site.

Jars of water posted on a Facebook site. (Martin County Water Warriors )

Ive been breaking out when I get into the shower, wrote another resident, Amy Sparks. My scalp burns like its on fire and I get red spots all over me. I noticed the water smelt like pure bleach.

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Even when county officials finally announced on Jan. 26 that they were lifting a boil-water advisory, many were skeptical.

We cannot use the water because its killing us, said BarbiAnn Maynard, a 40-year-old stay-at-home mom in Huntleyville, who blames county water for her moms death 10 years ago from cancer.

Martin County Water District has violated the Environmental Protection Agencys safe drinking water standards 36 times since 2012  most often for excessive levels of disinfection byproducts, such as trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids, which are formed when a disinfectant, such as chlorine, reacts with organic compounds in the water.

In the last six months, the district has been in compliance with EPA regulations after a technician from the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection trained county employees to tweak their treatment of raw water.

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State officials, however, say the county has a long way to go, especially with its finances. At a hearing last month for the districts request for an emergency rate increase, Michael Schmitt, chairman of Kentuckys Public Service Commission, described Martin County as by far the worst water district in the state. This has gone on for years and years and years  and I can tell you right now: This stops. Were going to fix it.

Officials representing the water district, which is more than $800,000 in debt and has been estimated to be in need of around $13 million for repairs, told the commission they were on the brink of financial collapse. During the winter outages, employees had to resort to digging up old lines and making repairs with used parts.

Were putting a patch on a bomb, said John Horn, chairman of the water board. Without a fresh infusion of cash within 60 to 90 days, he said, the district will no longer be able to pay its employees.

The Public Service Commission is expected to make a decision on the water rate increase soon. State regulators could force the water district to merge with a nearby utility company or put the water district into receivership with an outside agency.

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Already, there has been some infrastructure help: Officials note that the district has secured a $1.2-million grant to replace nearly a third of its leaking service lines and defective meters in the next 18 to 24 months.

Its all been blown out of proportion, said Martin Countys highest public official, Judge Executive Kelly Callaham.

Most people in the county are not experiencing water problems, Callaham said; anyone who continued to suffer from low pressure or water outages likely resided on hills and needed to invest in a pump.

How can you blame the water company when its your responsibility to put in an inline pump? he said. When they live 10 miles from the water plant and a mile and a half back on top of a hill, there needs to be a little better judgment on some of that stuff.

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If the new rate increase is approved, the average household would pay about $20 extra a month.

James Maynard of Lovely, Ky., says he has little cash to spend on water. (Jenny Jarvie / For The Times )

James Maynard, 50, a former truck driver who lives amid a narrow strip of ramshackle trailers in Lovely, a small community nestled between the Tug Fork River and a two-lane highway, said he had little cash to spare. He ekes by on about $750 a month in Social Security payments, plus food stamps, and pays about $550 a month on rent and utilities.

Maynard, who did not have running water for a week and a half during the outage, estimated he spent about $25 a week on bottled water.

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I still dont know if its safe to drink, he said as he stood outside his trailer patched with scraps of corrugated metal and looked out at a muddy landscape of discarded washing machines, used tires and empty Coca-Cola cans.

A lot of moneys been spent in this county, but we sure havent seen anything here, he added.

Residents complaints about water quality go back years. In 2000, Martin County was the center of one of the worst ecological disasters in the Southeast, when a huge coal slurry impoundment burst through an old mine shaft near Inez, pouring millions of gallons of black sludge mixed with poisonous metals into local creeks.

Back then, residents complained of skin rashes, nausea, and headaches, which they suspected were caused by contaminated water, but the countys water district reported that its water intake on the Tug Fork River was closed for maintenance before the disaster. A Department of Health and Human Services report concluded the water district did not take any slurry materials into the water treatment system and the countys drinking water was not contaminated by the spill.

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The water treatment plant in Martin County, Ky. (Jenny Jarvie / For The Times )

Experts say Martin Countys challenge is not so much its water source but its dilapidated infrastructure, which has allowed untreated groundwater to seep in through leaky pipes.

We can treat extraordinarily dirty water, said Brion, the University of Kentucky professor. But even if the water treatment plant does a good job of producing clean, quality water, it then goes into a distribution system that is full of holes.

Local officials have tried to persuade residents that the risk of cancer from disinfection byproducts is small  EPAs standard is fairly conservative  and a better option than potential bacterial infections from water not treated with disinfectants.

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Joe Hammond, the water districts business manager, said he and his family had experienced no problems with the tap water. We do drink it, most definitely, he said. We cook with it, eat with it, bathe with it.

What about residents who complained of rashes and irritable skin?

Maybe they should use lotion? he suggested.

Some residents say they have little faith county officials will fix the system.

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The more you complain, the less they try to help you, said Gary Michael Hunt, 39, a former coal miner who was escorted out of a public meeting last month when he voiced his frustration with the water shortages. I just want people to have clean, fresh drinking water. This isnt a Third World country.

Jarvie is a special correspondent.Los Angeles is in the grip of a housing crisis. Rents have been skyrocketing for years, and the diversity and vibrancy that make our city great are in danger of being snuffed out as low-income Angelenos are displaced and evicted. The growing consensus is that we need to build far more housing to stop the crisis. Most new housing developments dont replace existing multifamily buildings. But when they do, the families who live in those buildings have their lives turned upside down.

Under current law, when a rent-stabilized building is torn down to make way for new development, evicted residents receive relocation payments ranging from $7,000 to $20,000  depending on their age, income and length of residency. But with L.A.s recent rapid rent increases, these payouts often arent enough to afford new housing in the same neighborhood. Instead, residents are displaced from their community.

Dense new development can provide homes for 80 where there used to be homes for eight, but thats no consolation for the eight families who lose their home.

It doesnt have to be this way. We can, and should, establish a Right to Remain for tenants who are displaced by new housing construction.

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At a high level, Right to Remain works like this: Families who live in buildings slated for redevelopment could, in lieu of their traditional relocation checks, choose instead to move back into their redeveloped building at the same stabilized rent as before. During construction, developers would be required to find displaced tenants a nearby apartment and pay for all moving costs.

Right to Remain expands and improves on a policy that has been tried in Chicago and Washington, D.C., called Right to Return. These programs were created during the redevelopment of government-owned public housing to give existing residents the right to return once replacement housing had been constructed.

Despite its good intentions, Right to Return has some noticeable shortcomings. Thus far, programs have failed to create as much replacement housing as they have demolished; agencies tore down homes without sufficient money on hand to pay for redevelopment. In Chicago, Right to Return also failed to keep families in their local community during the construction process. At the LeClaire Courts project, for instance, 600 families are still scattered across the city nine years after they were evicted. Construction of a replacement building has not even started. Long moves like this force people to find new jobs and build lives elsewhere, making it harder to return, even after projects are finished.

Right to Remain would apply to rent-stabilized housing rather than public housing  and would address Right to Returns shortcomings in three ways. First, demolition permits wouldnt be issued until the building permits to replace the lost units were approved. L.A. also can ensure that financial incentives are aligned so that projects do not go uncompleted. Developers who fail to complete a project and rehouse displaced residents within a reasonable period of time (say, five years) could see the city seize their property. Finally, families can be kept in their communities by requiring that developers find residents interim apartments in the neighborhood during the construction process.

Right to Remain could fit into state or local law in a number of ways  but it would be most effective to pair it with upzoning (zone changes that allow for denser housing to be built). Rent is rising in Los Angeles because we build far too little housing to accommodate our children and the job-seekers who move here. That resulting housing shortage gives landlords all the negotiating power. Upzoning allows more housing to be built, giving renters more options  and therefore more leverage with landlords. In combination with the Right to Remain, upzoning can provide enough housing to bring rents down while making sure that no one is displaced along the way.

SB 827, a California law being proposed by state Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), could be just the right fit. The bill would rezone all areas within 1/4 mile of major transit corridors to allow four- to eight-story residential buildings to be built by right. That is exactly the kind of transformative thinking we need to address the housing crisis, stop gridlock and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, the bill as currently proposed relies on local jurisdictions to protect tenants, and the senator is actively looking for amendments to fill that gap.

Amending the bill to include the Right to Remain would allow for the development of much-needed housing along transit corridors, without fear of displacement or eviction. Existing residents could feel more secure knowing that they would benefit from growth in their neighborhood because their rent-stabilized unit no longer would be under threat from redevelopment.

L.A. needs rapid transit-oriented growth if we want to stop the rent increases, maintain our diversity, reduce congestion and smog and increase economic mobility. A Right to Remain can help us achieve those goals while ensuring that our citys prosperity equitably benefits all Angelenos.

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Brent Gaisford is the director of Abundant Housing LA, an all-volunteer housing advocacy organization with 1,500 members across Los Angeles County. He also is the co-founder and COO of Treehouse Co-Living, a builder and manager of community-focused apartment buildings.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or FacebookOver the past year, the number of refugees who resettled to the United States fell from about 97,000 to fewer than 34,000. The primary victims of this reduction are displaced people escaping violence and oppression, many of whom have been living in refugee camps for years.

But there is another casualty: the U.S. economy.

A key reason why refugees tend to flourish is the grit and determination they forged in the face of extreme adversity and persecution.

I am far from the first to say this. Numerous studies have established the economic benefits of taking in refugees. Last year, 80s CEOs and business leaders warned President Trump in a letter that overly restrictive immigration policies will likely cause billions of dollars in economic loss to our education and tourist industries and weakened foreign investment.

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Since many people continue to argue that refugees are a drain on our economy, however, its worth revisiting the wealth of research and data showing that, in fact, quite the opposite is true.

A 2017 draft report from the Department of Health and Human Services found that, over the past decade, refugees have contributed $63 billion more in tax revenue than they cost in public benefits. On a per capita basis, refugees contributed more than U.S.-born citizens during this period. The longer refugees stay in the U.S., the more enhanced are the benefits they bring to the economy.

A key reason why refugees tend to flourish  despite being among the most vulnerable and destitute when they arrive  is the grit and determination they forged in the face of extreme adversity and persecution.

According to the New American Economy Research Fund, refugees are 50% more likely to become entrepreneurs than American citizens who were born in the U.S. Another study found that refugees in Columbus, Ohio, supported more than 21,000 jobs and contributed more than $1.6 billion to the local economy.

Whats more, refugees often pass along their drive and propensity for hard work to their children. The New American Economy Research Fund found that 40% of Fortune 500 companies were founded by refugees, immigrants or their children. In 2013 and 2015, more than half of the top 10 students at one high school in Utica, N.Y., were refugees, a local newspaper reported. The schools 2015 valedictorian, a refugee from Vietnam, said of her parents: They put all their hopes and trusts and everything in me. So education becomes a responsibility for me.

Refugees can also help lessen the strain on Americas workforce and entitlement programs as baby boomers retire.

In 2015, less than half of the U.S.-born population was of working age, or between 25 and 64. By 2050, the number of U.S.-born citizens over 65 is expected to double. By contrast, more than 75% of refugees currently living in the U.S. are of working age. Over the past decade, the tax contributions of these refugees exceeded their receipt of public benefits by $194 million, or almost $9,200 per person.

Many of these refugees hold jobs that are the hardest to fill. More than 1 in 5 refugees work in manufacturing, and refugees are twice as likely as U.S.-born workers to hold jobs in general services, such as dry cleaning, housekeeping and machine repair.

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With such a robust body of research establishing the economic benefits of taking in refugees, its curious that people still believe they are a drain on the economy. Its possible that a refugee does occasionally get a job that a native-born American might otherwise have occupied. But this grievance fails to account for the number of jobs that refugees create.

More likely the myth persists because many Americans have never met a refugee  have never witnessed their flight to safety or their long path to integration. A decade ago, I had no first-hand knowledge of refugees either. But as CEO of World Relief, I have observed up close the violence they are fleeing and grasped the impossibility of returning to their home countries.

Americans are a compassionate people, many of them motivated by the convictions of their faith. We want to help. At the same time, many of us wonder, given the number of our citizens facing economic troubles, if we as a country can afford to continue welcoming refugees fleeing persecution abroad.

But the evidence is clear: refugees are an economic boon for any country that accepts them. We cant afford not to welcome refugees.

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Tim Breene is the CEO of World Relief. He previously was founder and chief executive of Accenture Interactive.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or FacebookLantern fairs are held in many places of China to celebrate the upcoming Spring Festival, or Chinese Lunar New Year.

Photo taken on Feb. 8, 2018 shows lanterns during a lantern fair held on the ancient city wall in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. The lantern fair greeting the Spring Festival kicked off here on Feb. 8, 2018. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)

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[ Editor: zyq ]Allies balk at Trump administration bid to block Chinese firm from cutting-edge telecom markets By David S. Cloud Britain and Germany are balking at the Trump administrations call for a ban on equipment from Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei, threatening a global U.S. campaign to thwart Chinas involvement in future mobile networks. Both countries are expected to limit Huawei and other Chinese companies from providing core components including routers. But other types of Chinese equipment for next-generation, high-speed communications could still be installed on British and German networks, officials and analysts say. The U.S. push to ban Huawei has provoked a global dispute in recent weeks, with senior U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo, publicly urging NATO allies in Europe to exclude the company and warning that the United States might limit its military presence in countries that did not do so. Read More Facebook

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Confucius Institutes: Do they improve U.S.-China ties or harbor spies? By Don Lee Hanging red lanterns welcome visitors to the University of Marylands Confucius Institute, the oldest of about 100 Chinese language and cultural centers that have popped up over the last 15 years on American campuses, subsidized by millions of dollars from Chinas central government. But last fall, when four U.S. Senate investigators walked into the Confucius offices in Maryland and spent hours questioning staff, they werent looking for an educational exchange. The committee has been seeking detailed information from the university about the program, including contracts, email exchanges and financial arrangements that school administrators have kept under wraps since it started in 2004. American colleges once viewed these jointly funded institutes as an economical way to expand their language offerings  one that could also bring warmer ties with China and, importantly, an influx of Chinese international students paying full tuition. Read More Facebook

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Watch Live: White House holds surprise news briefing amid government shutdown Facebook

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U.S. policy toward China shifts from engagement to confrontation By David S. Cloud For decades, China had no closer American friend than Dianne Feinstein. As San Francisco mayor in the 1970s, she forged a sister-city relationship with Shanghai, the first between American and Chinese communities. As U.S. senator, she dined with Chinese leaders at Mao Tse-tungs old Beijing residence. And in the 1990s, she championed a trade policy change that opened a floodgate of Western investment into China. Today the Democratic senator sees China as a growing threat, joining a broad array of Trump administration officials, national security strategists and business executives who once favored engagement with Beijing and now advocate a confrontational approach instead. Read More Facebook

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Mnuchins attempt to calm markets backfires as Trump takes another shot at the Federal Reserve By Jim Puzzanghera An attempt by Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin to calm plunging financial markets backfired Monday, further rattling investors with new fears about whether major U.S. banks have enough cash on top of worries about interest rates, political instability in Washington and a slowing global economy. Adding to the volatile mix was a fresh attack on the Federal Reserve by President Trump, who declared that the central bank was the U.S. economys only problem and that it didnt have a feel for the market. The Fed is like a powerful golfer who cant score because he has no touch -- he cant putt! Trump said on Twitter. Read More Facebook

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He speaks to Democratic hearts. But is Beto ORourke a serious White House contender? By Mark Z. Barabak Hes a failed U.S. Senate candidate with an undistinguished congressional record who, for the moment, is a blazing-hot 2020 presidential prospect  despite the fact that he may not run and faces long odds if he does. Beto ORourke suggests the will-he-or-wont-he speculation is something he himself cant quite fathom. I think thats a great question, he responded in a Dallas Morning News interview when asked whether his unsuccessful November Senate bid merited a promotion to the White House. I ask that question myself. Read More Facebook

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Russian disinformation teams targeted Robert S. Mueller III, says report prepared for Senate By Craig Timberg, Tony Romm, Elizabeth Dwoskin Special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. (Associated Press) Months after President Trump took office, Russias disinformation teams trained their sites on a new target: special counsel Robert S. Mueller III. Having worked to help get Trump into the White House, they now worked to neutralize the biggest threat to his staying there. The Russian operatives unloaded on Mueller through fake accounts on Facebook, Twitter and beyond, falsely claiming that the former FBI director was corrupt and that the allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 election were crackpot conspiracies. One post on Instagram  which emerged as an especially potent weapon in the Russian social media arsenal  claimed that Mueller had worked in the past with radical Islamic groups. Such tactics exemplified how Russian teams ranged nimbly across social media platforms in a shrewd online influence operation aimed squarely at American voters. The effort started earlier than commonly understood and lasted longer while relying on the strengths of different sites to manipulate distinct slices of the electorate, according to a pair of comprehensive new reports prepared for the Senate Intelligence Committee and released Monday. Read more Timberg, Romm and Dwoskin report for the Washington Post. Facebook

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President Trump announces Mick Mulvaney as acting White House chief of staff By Associated Press President Trump says budget director Mick Mulvaney will serve as acting chief of staff, replacing John F. Kelly in the new year. I am pleased to announce that Mick Mulvaney, Director of the Office of Management & Budget, will be named Acting White House Chief of Staff, replacing General John Kelly, who has served our Country with distinction. Mick has done an outstanding job while in the Administration....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 14, 2018 Facebook

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It aint over when its over: In Michigan, Wisconsin and elsewhere, losers seek to undermine election results By Mark Z. Barabak Democrat Gavin Newsom has yet to become California governor, but already a candidate for state Republican Party chairman is promoting a recall effort. In Michigan and Wisconsin, GOP lawmakers have rushed through legislation to thwart their incoming Democratic governors and hamper others in the opposing party from doing the jobs voters chose them to do. In Congress, GOP leaders have echoed President Trump and sought to undermine the legitimacy of Democrats strong midterm performance, raising unsubstantiated allegations of fraud and political malfeasance. Read More Facebook

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New CFPB Director Kathy Kraninger says she wont be a puppet of Mick Mulvaney By Jim Puzzanghera On her first full day leading the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Kathy Kraninger said she wont be a puppet of Mick Mulvaney, the controversial acting director whom she replaced in the powerful regulatory position. To underscore that point, the former White House aide said she would even reconsider a Mulvaney action that critics saw as a gratuitous jab at Democrats who championed the agencys creation: changing its name to the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. Kraningers declaration during a meeting with reporters Tuesday addressed one of the main criticisms of her selection. She is considered a protege of Mulvaney, her boss at the White House Office of Management and Budget who has executed a dramatic, industry-friendly shift at the watchdog agency. Read More Facebook

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Trumps pick for chief of staff, Nick Ayers, out of running By Associated Press Nick Ayers, right, with Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, at the funeral service for George H.W. Bush on Dec. 3. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Associated Press) President Trumps top pick to replace John F. Kelly as chief of staff, Nick Ayers, is no longer expected to fill that role. Thats according to a White House official who is not authorized to discuss the personnel issue by name and spoke on condition of anonymity. Ayers is Vice President Mike Pences chief of staff. The official says that Trump and Ayers could not agree on Ayers length of service. The father of young children, Ayers had agreed to serve in an interim capacity though the spring, but Trump wanted a two-year commitment. The official says that Ayers will instead assist the president from outside the administration. Trump announced Saturday that Kelly would be departing the White House around the end of the year. Thank you @realDonaldTrump, @VP, and my great colleagues for the honor to serve our Nation at The White House. I will be departing at the end of the year but will work with the #MAGA team to advance the cause.  #Georgia  Nick Ayers (@nick_ayers) December 9, 2018 Facebook

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U.S. hiring slows to 155,000 jobs, unemployment rate holds at 3.7% By Jim Puzzanghera Job growth slowed significantly in November but still was solid, indicating the economy remains in good shape but not expanding so quickly that it will lead to sharply higher interest rates. U.S. employers added 155,000 jobs last month, well below analyst expectations and a steep decline from Octobers strong 237,000 figure, the Labor Department reported Friday. Still, monthly job gains are averaging 206,000 this year, the best since 2015. Even the slower pace of 170,000 over the last three months is close to last years average of 182,000 and well above the amount needed to keep up with population growth. Read More Facebook

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Trump is expected to pick State Department spokeswoman for U.N. ambassador By Associated Press Heather Nauert at a briefing at the State Department on Aug. 9, 2017. (Alex Brandon / Associated Press) President Trump is expected to nominate State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert to be the next U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Two administration officials confirmed Trumps plans. A Republican congressional aide said the president was expected to announce his decision by tweet on Friday morning. The officials were not authorized to speak publicly before Trumps announcement. Trump has previously said Nauert was under serious consideration to replace Nikki Haley, who announced in October that she would step down at the end of this year. Trump has been known to change course on staffing decisions in the past. Nauert was a reporter for Fox News Channel before she became State Department spokeswoman under former Secretary Rex Tillerson. Facebook

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Senate confirms new consumer financial protection chief: Kathy Kraninger, protege of industry-friendly Mick Mulvaney By Jim Puzzanghera The Senate, in a party-line vote Thursday, confirmed White House aide Kathy Kraninger to head the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and experts predicted a continuation of the industry-friendly shift it has taken since President Trump installed an acting director last year. Kraninger is a protege of acting director and White House budget chief Mick Mulvaney, an outspoken critic of the agency that was created in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis to prevent predatory lending and other abuses that led to it. Democrats and consumer advocates have denounced him for sharply departing from the aggressive watchdog role the bureau had pursued under its first director, Obama-appointee Richard Cordray, including scaling back enforcement and moving to reassess tough new rules on payday loans and narrow the definition of abusive practices by banks and other firms. Read More Facebook

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Shutdown postponed by two weeks under plan approved by Congress By Erik Wasson Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.), shown at the Capitol on Tuesday, says President Trumps border wall is a waste of money. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) Congress passed a two-week stopgap spending bill that will delay the chance of a partial government shutdown until Dec. 22 as lawmakers and President Donald Trump negotiate over his demands to pay for a wall on the southern border. The House and Senate passed the measure Thursday without dissent, and Trump has indicated hell sign the bill before the current shutdown deadline of midnight Friday. Negotiations were delayed by memorial services this week for former President George H.W. Bush. The temporary measure gives Democrats and Republicans more time to find a resolution to their biggest hurdle: funding a wall on the U.S. Mexico border wall. Trump says he wants $5 billion for parts of a concrete wall on the southern border and is willing to shut down the government if he doesnt get it. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York has said Democrats will provide no more than $1.6 billion for border security, because the wall is a waste of money. The presidents demands for wall funding from Congress come after he said during the campaign that Mexico would pay for it. This week he said on Twitter that a $25 billion border wall would pay for itself in two months, without providing evidence. Most of the U.S. governments $1.2 trillion discretionary budget has been appropriated already by Congress for the fiscal year that began on Oct. 1. Departments at a risk of a partial shutdown late this month include the departments of State, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Justice, Treasury and Homeland Security. Talks to resolve the differences have been on hold since a meeting among Trump, Schumer and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California originally slated for Dec. 4 was postponed due to Bush memorial events. The three are scheduled to meet on Tuesday, according to a person familiar with the matter. Senate Appropriations Chairman Richard Shelby of Alabama told reporters the rest of the seven-bill spending package being negotiated is basically done. Shelby in recent weeks had tried to broker a compromise in which Trumps $5 billion request would be split over two years, but Schumer has rejected that. Some Democrats have been willing to trade border wall funding for deportation protections for young undocumented immigrants. Pelosi ruled out such a deal in remarks to reporters Thursday. The stopgap government funding measure also would extend the National Flood Insurance Program, which provides subsidized coverage for homes in flood-prone areas, to Dec. 21. Facebook

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Bipartisan Senate group wants to formally blame Saudi crown prince for journalists killing By Karoun Demirjian Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires. (Associated Press) A bipartisan group of senators filed a resolution Wednesday condemning Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as responsible for the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, directly challenging President Trump to do the same. This resolution -- without equivocation -- definitively states that the crown prince of Saudi Arabia was complicit in the murder of Mr. [Jamal] Khashoggi and has been a wrecking ball to the region jeopardizing our national security interests on multiple fronts, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said in a statement accompanying the release of the resolution. It will be up to Saudi Arabia as to how to deal with this matter. But it is up to the United States to firmly stand for who we are and what we believe. The resolution put forward by Graham and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), who are expected to lead the Judiciary Committee together next year, comes just one day after CIA Director Gina Haspel briefed leading senators about the details of the agencys assessment that Mohammed ordered and monitored the killing and dismemberment of Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. Senators emerged from that closed-door briefing furious not only with Saudi Arabia, but Trump as well for dismissing the heft of the CIAs findings. You have to be willfully blind not to come to the conclusion that this was orchestrated and organized by people under the command of MBS and that he was intricately involved in the demise of Mr. Khashoggi, Graham said following the briefing, referring to Mohammed by his initials. He added that Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo and Defense Secretary James N. Mattis, who briefed senators last week, were at best being good soldiers and at worst were in the pocket of Saudi Arabia for presenting the evidence of Mohammeds involvement as inconclusive. The release of the resolution condemning Mohammed also comes as the Senate is preparing to move ahead with debate on a resolution to curtail U.S. support for the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen. Though the Yemen resolution does not directly address Khashoggis murder, its popularity is a sign of how strained the United States patience with Saudi Arabia is on multiple fronts, including its role in worsening the civilian cost of the war in Yemen, cited by the United Nations as the worlds worst humanitarian crisis. Last week, the Senate voted 63 to 37 to advance the Yemen resolution past an opening procedural hurdle. But Graham and Feinsteins resolution on the crown prince has the potential of drawing broader support, especially from Republicans, who are deeply divided about how fiercely to punish Saudi Arabia over Khashoggis killing. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who has been an outspoken advocate for human rights and is seen as one of the more influential foreign policy voices in the GOP, did not vote for the Yemen resolution last week or sign on to a bipartisan measure last month to sanction Saudi officials and cease weapons transfers to the kingdom. But he is an original co-sponsor of the resolution condemning Mohammed over Khashoggis death. So is Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.), who represents the other end of the GOP spectrum in terms of recent Saudi-related votes and endorsements. Young was an initial co-sponsor of the bill Graham wrote with Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) to sanction Saudi officials deemed responsible for Khashoggis killing and stop the sale of anything but exclusively defensive weapons to the kingdom until it ceased hostilities in Yemen. Young also voted to advance the Yemen resolution  something Graham did as well, though Graham has signaled he will not be lending any similar support to the measure, fearing it may establish a precedent of invoking the War Powers Act too broadly. Sens. Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) are listed as original co-sponsors of the resolution condemning Mohammed, which also urges Saudi Arabia to negotiate with Houthi rebels to end the Yemen war, work out a political solution to its standoff with Qatar and release political prisoners. But how much sway the resolution has probably comes down to how forcefully the administration decides to heed it -- and thus far, Trump has not shown any interest in condemning the crown prince the way the senators hope he will. Demirjian reports for the Washington Post. Facebook

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Los Angeles County offices and U.S. Postal Service closed Wednesday in honor of George H.W. Bush By Brian Park The Honor Guard carries the casket of former U.S. President George H. W. Bush following his funeral on Dec. 5 in Washington, DC. (Doug Mills - Pool/Getty Images) The U.S. Postal Service will suspend regular mail delivery Wednesday, which President Trump has declared a national day of mourning in honor of former President George H.W. Bush. All retail postal outlets will be closed, and package delivery will be limited. In Los Angeles, all nonessential county departments, offices and libraries will be closed for the day, L.A. County officials said. The Los Angeles County Library said no overdue fines will be assessed for books, and due dates will be moved forward one week. Los Angeles County Department of Public Health offices also are closed Wednesday. The Sheriffs Department, Fire Department, clinics and hospitals will continue to operate, the county said. The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health clinics are being operated with reduced staffing, and the department asked patients to confirm or reschedule any appointments. All county courts and the disaster recovery centers for the Woolsey fire in Malibu and Agoura Hills will remain open. Larger federal government operations will be closed Wednesday. To honor the life and legacy of President Bush, the Postal Service will observe the National Day of Mourning. Learn how Postal operations will be affected. https://t.co/Mffch7bPCh pic.twitter.com/vG46BsIOpm  U.S. Postal Service (@USPS) December 4, 2018 L.A. County offices and libraries will be closed tomorrow (Dec 5) in observance of the #NationalDayOfMourning for President George H. W. Bush.



The Countys Disaster Recovery Centers in Malibu & Agoura Hills will remain open from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. pic.twitter.com/Sv1J7GoJ7T  Los Angeles County (@CountyofLA) December 4, 2018 @LAPublicHealth offices will be closed tomorrow December 5 in observance of the national Day of Mourning for President George H. W. Bush. Essential Services including clinics and other services will remain open: https://t.co/tZGoGGHRlg pic.twitter.com/ypXsV6vlYY  LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) December 4, 2018 Facebook

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Former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick to skip 2020 White House race, sources say By Associated Press Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks during an interview in Boston on Dec. 15, 2014. (Elise Amendola / Associated Press) Former Gov. Deval Patrick of Massachusetts will soon announce he wont launch a 2020 presidential campaign, according to three sources familiar with his plans. They did not say why the Democrat decided against a run. A formal announcement was delayed as the country observed a day of mourning for President George H.W. Bush, one source said. News of Patricks plans was first reported by Politico. Patrick, 62, served two terms as governor, from 2007 to 2015, was assistant attorney general for civil rights in the Clinton administration and since leaving the governors office has been a managing director for Bain Capital. Patrick traveled the country in support of Democratic candidates in the recent midterm election. Earlier this year, some of Patricks supporters and close advisors started the Reason to Believe political action committee, a grassroots organization dedicated to advancing a positive, progressive vision for our nation in 2018 and 2020. Reason to Believe PAC had been holding meetups across the country, including in early presidential primary states. While Patrick is opting against a 2020 run, dozens of Democrats are considering jumping in, including nearly a half-dozen members of the Senate, several House members, and other Massachusetts politicians. On Tuesday, Michael Avenatti, the attorney for adult film star Stormy Daniels and a vocal critic of President Trump, said in a statement that he would run. Patrick had previously expressed some concerns about breaking through if he sought the nomination, telling David Axelrod, a former advisor to President Obama, that he wasnt sure he could stand out in such a large field. Its hard to see how you even get noticed in such a big, broad field without being shrill, sensational or a celebrity, and Im none of those things and Im never going to be any of those things, Patrick said in a September interview with Axelrod. Facebook

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Former Trump adviser Roger Stone invokes 5th Amendment right and wont testify before Senate Judiciary Committee By Associated Press Roger Stone in 2017. (Joe Raedle / Getty Images) Roger Stone, an associate of President Trump, says he wont provide testimony or documents to the Senate Judiciary Committee. An attorney for Stone said in a letter to Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the committees top Democrat, that Stone was invoking his 5th Amendment right against self-incrimination in refusing to produce documents or appear for an interview. Stone has been entangled in investigations by Congress and special counsel Robert S. Mueller III about whether Trump aides had advance knowledge of Democratic emails published by WikiLeaks during the 2016 election. Stone has not been charged and has said he had no knowledge of the timing or specifics of WikiLeaks plans. In the letter to Feinstein, Stone said the committees requests were far too overbroad, far too overreaching and far too wide-ranging. Facebook

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Watch live: Vice President Pence and lawmakers honor George H.W. Bush at the U.S. Capitol before he lies in state Facebook

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Rebuilding crumbling infrastructure has bipartisan support. But who gets to pay for it? By Jim Puzzanghera The grades for major U.S. infrastructure would give any parent indigestion if they were on a childs report card. Roads: D; bridges: C+; dams: D; ports: C+: railways: B; airports: D; schools: D+; public transit: D-. The nations overall grade: D+, which translates to being in fair to poor condition and mostly below standards with significant deterioration and a strong risk of failure, according to an evaluation last year by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Read More Facebook

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Trump calls former lawyer Michael Cohen a weak person who is lying By Associated Press President Trump says his former lawyer Michael Cohen is lying to get a reduced sentence. The president is reacting to Cohens guilty plea Thursday to lying to Congress about work he did on a Trump real estate project in Russia. During a surprise court hearing, Cohen admitted to lying in testimony to the Senate Intelligence Committee about a plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. Cohen in his guilty plea said he made the false statements to be consistent with Trumps political message. Cohens lawyer says he continues to cooperate with special counsel Robert S. Mueller IIIs investigation into Russian election interference and possible coordination with Trump associates. Facebook

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As California Republicans confront a congressional wipeout, GOP leader Kevin McCarthy faces a reckoning By Mark Z. Barabak When the House voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, Kevin McCarthy trooped with other Republican lawmakers to a splashy Rose Garden celebration, smiling alongside President Trump as they celebrated the moment. As majority leader, McCarthy had helped round up the votes to narrowly pass the hard-fought legislation, convincing 13 other California Republicans to go along, even though several faced tough reelection fights. Fewer than half will be returning in January. Read More Facebook

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As California Republicans confront a congressional wipeout, GOP leader Kevin McCarthy faces a reckoning By Sarah D. Wire When the House voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, Kevin McCarthy trooped with other Republican lawmakers to a splashy Rose Garden celebration, smiling alongside President Trump as they celebrated the moment. As majority leader, McCarthy had helped round up the votes to narrowly pass the hard-fought legislation, convincing 13 other California Republicans to go along, even though several faced tough reelection fights. Fewer than half will be returning in January. Read More Facebook

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Michael Cohen, President Trumps ex-lawyer, pleads guilty to lying to Congress about Trump real estate project in Russia By Associated Press Michael Cohen, President Trumps former personal lawyer, pursued a Russian real estate project on candidate Trumps behalf well into the 2016 campaign, he said Thursday while pleading guilty to lying to Congress. Cohen had previously said that the project was abandoned in January 2016, but he now admits he continued to pursue a deal and says he updated Trump and members of his family about the negotiations, according to a new court document. Read More Facebook

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James Comey says acting Atty. Gen. Whitaker may not be the sharpest knife in our drawer By John Wagner Acting Atty. Gen. Matthew Whitaker speaks at the Justice Department in Washington on Nov. 14. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / Associated Press) Former FBI Director James B. Comey apparently isnt too impressed with the mental prowess of President Trumps acting attorney general. Matthew Whitaker may not be the sharpest knife in our drawer, Comey said during a radio interview on Monday night in which he sized up the man Trump installed this month to replace ousted Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions. Comey was asked by WGBH News in Boston if he thinks Whitaker could derail the investigation of special counsel Robert S. Mueller III into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Whitaker has spoken critically of the probe, and Trump  as recently as Tuesday  continues to call it a witch hunt. I think its a worry, but to my mind not a serious worry, Comey said. The institution is too strong, and [Whitaker], frankly, is not strong enough to have that kind of impact. He may not be the sharpest knife in our drawer, but he can see his future and knows that if he acted in an extralegal way, he would go down in history for the wrong reasons, and Im sure he doesnt want that, added Comey, who was fired by Trump last year and later wrote a book that portrays the president as an ego-driven congenital liar. Whitaker, a former U.S. attorney in Iowa, was Sessions chief of staff before being picked by Trump to lead the Justice Department. Trump has called Whitaker a very smart man. Earlier this year, Trump called Comey an untruthful slime ball. Wagner writes for the Washington Post. Facebook

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Interior Department watchdog clears Zinke in investigation of Utah national monument By Juliet Eilperin Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke, third from the left, and Gov. Jerry Brown tour fire damage in Paradise, Calif., on Nov. 14. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) The Interior Departments Office of Inspector General has cleared Secretary Ryan Zinke in a probe of whether he redrew boundaries of a national monument in Utah to aid the financial interests of a Republican state lawmaker and stalwart supporter of President Trump. In a Nov. 21 letter to Zinkes deputy, David Bernhardt, Deputy Inspector General Mary Kendall wrote that her office found no evidence that the secretary or his aides changed the boundaries of Utahs Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in an effort to help former Utah state representative Mike Noel, who serves as executive director of the Kane County Water Conservancy District. Last December, Trump shrank the monument, first established by President Clinton in 1996, by 46% based on Zinkes recommendation. Noel owns 40 acres that had been surrounded by the monument, but now lies outside its boundaries. The new boundaries also would make it easier to construct the proposed Lake Powell Pipeline, which would deliver water to sites in Kane County that include Noels property. Earlier this year, the Interior Department had proposed selling off 120 acres of federal land from the former monument that lay adjacent to some of Noels land holdings, but later reversed the plan. We found no evidence that Noel influenced the DOIs proposed revisions to the [monuments] boundaries, that Zinke or other DOI staff involved in the project were aware of Noels financial interest in the revised boundaries, or that they gave Noel any preferential treatment in the resulting proposed boundaries, Kendall wrote. Neither the Interior Department nor the inspector generals office would release the actual investigative report. In the letter, Kendall writes that her office will provide the report to Congress no sooner than 31 days from Nov. 21, when it is provided it to Zinkes office. The Associated Press first reported the inspector generals conclusions Monday night, but did not provide details from the report itself. Noel emailed Zinke about the effort to alter Grand Staircase-Escalante, according to emails released by Interior under the Freedom of Informational Act. But those emails do not make references to Noels land holdings. Noel also pushed to rename a Utah highway in honor of Trump, but abandoned that effort in March after some of his fellow Republicans objected to the idea. Noel did not respond to requests for comment Tuesday. The inspector generals office still has at least two ongoing probes of the secretary, including one focused on his real estate dealings in Whitefish, Mont., and another regarding his decision to deny a permit to two Connecticut tribes who were hoping to jointly run a casino after MGM Resorts International lobbied against it. Interior Department spokeswoman Heather Swift welcomed the watchdogs conclusions. The report shows exactly what the secretarys office has known all along  that the monument boundaries were adjusted in accordance with all rules, regulations and laws, she said in an email. This report is also the latest example of opponents and special interest groups ginning up fake and misleading stories, only to be proven false after expensive and time consuming inquiries by the IGs office. But Kendalls spokeswoman, Nancy DiPaolo, defended the inquiry, even though she said the report has not been publicly released and we will not be speaking specifically about the matter at this time. The OIG opens investigations based on credible allegations and reports our findings objectively and independently, DiPaolo added. Any time or resources spent investigating conduct or activity that may be a violation of law, regulation or policy is a service to the public, Congress and the Department. Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona, the top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, said in a statement that he still intended to investigate the way Zinke and his colleague redrew the boundaries for Grand Staircase-Escalante and another Utah national monument, Bears Ears, next year. I have great respect for the inspector general, and I accept these findings, but Secretary Zinke should have known the people he listened to while destroying our national monuments had disqualifying conflicts of interest, he said. Should I chair the Natural Resources Committee in the next Congress, the process he and President Trump used to destroy Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante will be front and center in our oversight and investigations efforts. We need to know why they ignored overwhelming public expressions of support for both Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, why they ignored Native American tribes throughout their decision-making, and why they removed protections on parcels of land with known mineral deposits. Eilperin and Rein report for the Washington Post. Facebook

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Trump advisor Larry Kudlow says China must do more to end trade war By Jim Puzzanghera Larry Kudlow, President Trumps top economic advisor, said Tuesday that Chinas response to U.S. efforts to rework the two economic superpowers trade relationship has been extremely disappointing but the planned meeting this weekend between the nations leaders is an opportunity for a breakthrough. They have to do more. They must do more, Larry Kudlow, director of the White House National Economic Council, told reporters ahead of a Saturday dinner between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Group of 20 Summit in Argentina. I think the president is exactly right  to show strong backbone when prior administrations did not, to break through these Chinese walls, Kudlow said. Theyre so resistant to change. We have to protect the country. We have to protect our technology, our inventiveness, our innovation. Read More Facebook

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Watch live: White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders holds a media briefing amid tensions at the border By Los Angeles Times Staff Facebook

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Democrat TJ Cox grabs lead over Republican David Valadao in nations last remaining undecided House race By Maya Sweedler Democrat TJ Cox slipped past Republican incumbent David Valadao on Monday to take the lead in the countrys sole remaining undecided congressional race, positioning Democrats to pick up their seventh House seat in California and 40th nationwide. Cox, who trailed by nearly 4,400 votes on election night, has steadily gained as ballot counting continues nearly three weeks after the Nov. 6 election, a pattern consistent with the states recent voting history. On Monday, he pulled ahead by 438 votes after Kern County updated its results. Read More Facebook

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Former CIA director Michael Hayden hospitalized after suffering a stroke By Deanna Paul Then-CIA Director Michael Hayden testifies before a Senate committee in 2008. (Saul Loeb / Getty Images) Former CIA Director and retired Air Force Gen. Michael Hayden has been hospitalized after suffering a stroke, his family said Friday. He is receiving expert medical care for which the family is grateful, according to a statement issued by his namesake organization. The General and his family greatly appreciate the warm wishes and prayers of his friends, colleagues, and supporters. Hayden, 73, served as director of the CIA and National Security Agency during the George W. Bush and Obama administrations. He retired from the CIA in 2009. Hayden has been a vocal critic of Donald Trumps campaign and presidency. Earlier this year, after Trump decided to revoke the security clearance of former CIA director John Brennan, Hayden was one of several former intelligence leaders who signed a statement in opposition. Criticizing the president for crossing a line, he quickly became one of the individuals whose security clearance Trump threatened to review. Deanna Paul writes for the Washington Post. Facebook

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Trump tells troops hes thankful for what hes done for the U.S. and rails against courts and migrants By Associated Press President Trump talks with troops via teleconference from his estate in Palm Beach, Fla., on Thanksgiving. (Susan Walsh / Associated Press) President Trump used his Thanksgiving Day call to troops deployed overseas to pat himself on the back and air grievances about the courts, trade and migrants heading to the U.S.-Mexico border. Trumps call, made from his opulent private Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Fla., struck an unusually political tone as he spoke with members of all five branches of the military to wish them happy holidays. Its a disgrace, Trump said of judges who have blocked his attempts to overhaul U.S. immigration law, as he linked his efforts to secure the border with military missions overseas. Trump later threatened to close the U.S. border with Mexico for an undisclosed period of time if his administration determines Mexico has lost control on its side. The call was a uniquely Trump blend of boasting, peppered questions and off-the-cuff observations as his comments veered from venting about slights to praising troops  You really are our heroes, he said  as club waiters worked to set Thanksgiving dinner tables on the outdoor terrace behind him. It was yet another show of how Trump has dramatically transformed the presidency, erasing the traditional divisions between domestic policy and military matters and efforts to keep the troops clear of politics. You probably see over the news whats happening on our southern border, Trump told one Air Force brigadier general stationed at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan, adding: I dont have to even ask you. I know what you want to do, you want to make sure that you know who were letting in. Later, Trump asked a U.S. Coast Guard commander about trade, which he noted was a very big subject for him personally. Weve been taken advantage of for many, many years by bad trade deals, Trump told the commander, who sheepishly replied, Mr. President, from our perspective on the water  we dont see any issues in terms of trade right now. And throughout, Trump congratulated himself, telling the officers that the country is doing exceptionally well on his watch. I hope that youll take solace in knowing that all of the American families you hold so close to your heart are all doing well, he said. The nations doing well economically, better than anybody in the world. He later told reporters, Nobodys done more for the military than me. Indeed, asked what he was thankful for this Thanksgiving, Trump cited his great family as well as himself. I made a tremendous difference in this country, he said. Facebook

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Trump contradicts CIA assessment that Saudi crown prince ordered Jamal Khashoggi killing By Josh Dawsey | Washington Post (Susan Walsh / Associated Press) President Trump on Thursday contradicted the CIAs assessment that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had ordered the killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, insisting that the agency had feelings but did not firmly place blame for the death. Trump, in defiant remarks to reporters from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, defended his continued support for Mohammed in the face of a CIA assessment that the crown prince had ordered the killing. He denies it vehemently, Trump said. He said his own conclusion was that maybe he did, maybe he didnt. I hate the crime .... I hate the cover-up. I will tell you this: The crown prince hates it more than I do, Trump said. Asked who should be held accountable for the death of Khashoggi, who was killed at the Saudi Consulate in Turkey, Trump refused to place blame. Maybe the world should be held accountable because the world is a very, very vicious place, the president said. He also seemed to suggest that all U.S. allies were guilty of the same behavior, declaring that if the others were held to the standard that critics have held Saudi Arabia to in recent days, we wouldnt be able to have anyone for an ally. Trumps remarks came after he held a conference call with U.S. military officers overseas, during which he repeatedly praised his administration and sought to draw the officers into discussions of domestic policy. Facebook

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Former FBI Director James Comey gets subpoena from House Republicans By Bloomberg Former FBI Director James B. Comey said he has received a subpoena from House Republicans, according to a Twitter post on Thursday. Bloomberg News reported last week that Comey would be receiving a subpoena alongside former Atty. Gen. Loretta Lynch as part of continuing probes into their handling of investigations into Hillary Clinton and Russian election meddling, according to a top House Democrat. Happy Thanksgiving. Got a subpoena from House Republicans. Im still happy to sit in the light and answer all questions. But I will resist a closed door thing because Ive seen enough of their selective leaking and distortion. Lets have a hearing and invite everyone to see.  James Comey (@Comey) November 22, 2018 Read More Facebook

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Republican David Valadaos lead slips to 447 votes over Democrat TJ Cox in still-undecided Central Valley House race By Mark Z. Barabak Rep. David Valadao (R-Hanford), right, finds himself in an increasingly harrowing cliffhanger against Democrat TJ Cox. (Bill Clark / CQ Roll Call) On election night, it looked like Rep. David Valadao had survived a close shave and was destined to return to Washington for his fourth term. But on Wednesday, when Fresno County announced its latest vote totals, the Hanford Republican found himself in an increasingly harrowing cliffhanger against Democrat TJ Cox, with his lead in the Central Valley district shrunken to 447 votes. Thousands remain to be counted. Valadao, a repeated Democratic target, finished election night with a lead of nearly 4,440 votes. Cox, an engineer and a business owner who unsuccessfully ran for Congress in 2006, has steadily gained ground in the 21st Congressional District ever since. The trend is consistent with historic patterns showing Republicans in California tend to vote early and Democrats later, meaning their mail ballots continue to stream in past election day. Under California law, ballots postmarked up to midnight on Nov. 6 will be counted. Democrats have already picked up six House seats in California. They ousted Reps. Dana Rohrabacher, Mimi Walters, Steve Knight and Jeff Denham and won the seats of retiring Reps. Ed Royce and Darrell Issa. All six represented districts that backed Hillary Clinton over Donald Trump in 2016. Valadao was the seventh California Republican in a district Clinton won, though his previous successes  he last won reelection by a 14-point margin  suggested his ouster was a longer shot for Democrats. If Cox prevails, it would give Democrats a 40-seat gain nationwide, far more than the 23 seats needed to take control when Congress reconvenes in January. Facebook

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Trump says no new punishments against Saudi Arabia in Jamal Khashoggi murder By Eli Stokols In this Oct. 25 photo, candles are lit in front of a photo of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. (Lefteris Pitarakis) President Trump made it clear on Tuesday that he does not intend to punish Saudi Arabia or Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the murder of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi, an American resident killed by Saudi officials in Turkey in October. In a remarkable statement replete with exclamation points, Trump cast doubt on the CIAs reported conclusions that it has a high degree of confidence that the crown prince ordered Khashoggis murder and sent his closest allies to Saudi Arabias consulate in Istanbul to carry it out. Read MoreThis article has been updated with staff. Facebook

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Sixteen House Democrats vow to oppose Nancy Pelosi as next speaker By Mike DeBonis | Washington Post House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) Sixteen House Democrats said Monday that they will vote to deny Rep. Nancy Pelosi another stint as House speaker, a show of defiance that puts her opponents on the cusp of forcing a seismic leadership shake-up as their party prepares to take the majority. Their pledge to oppose Pelosi (D-San Francisco), both in an internal caucus election and a Jan. 3 floor vote, delivered in a letter sent to Democratic colleagues, comes as Pelosi has marshaled a legion of supporters on and off Capitol Hill to make her case. But her opponents said Monday they are convinced it is time to select a new leader. We are thankful to Leader Pelosi for her years of service to our Country and to our Caucus, they wrote. However, we also recognize that in this recent election, Democrats ran on and won on a message of change. Pelosi has expressed complete confidence that she will retake the speakers gavel in January  eight years after she lost it following massive Republican gains in the 2010 midterms and 16 years after she was first elevated to the top Democratic leadership post in the House. Come on in, the waters fine, she said Friday about a potential leadership challenge. The signers might not be able to force Pelosi out themselves. The size of the Democratic majority remains in flux, but Democrats have already won 232 seats, according to the Associated Press, with five races still undecided. All those races have Republican incumbents, but the Democratic challenger is ahead in only one of them. If the leads hold in the uncalled races, Democrats would have won 233 seats, a 16-seat majority. That means Pelosi could lose as many as 15 Democratic votes when she stands for election as speaker on Jan. 3. Read More Facebook

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Democratic senators sue over Whitakers appointment as acting attorney general By Associated Press Acting U.S. Atty. Gen. Matthew Whitaker (Nicholas Kamm / AFP/Getty Images) Three Senate Democrats filed a lawsuit Monday arguing that Acting Atty. Gen. Matthew Whitakers appointment is unconstitutional and asking a federal judge to remove him. The suit, filed by Sens. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii and Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, argues that Whitakers appointment violates the Constitution because he has not been confirmed by the Senate. Whitaker was chief of staff to Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions and was elevated to the top job after Sessions was ousted by President Trump on Nov. 7. The Constitutions Appointments Clause requires that the Senate confirm all principal officials before they can serve in their office. The Justice Department released a legal opinion last week that said Whitakers appointment would not violate the clause because he is serving in an acting capacity. The opinion concluded that Whitaker, even without Senate confirmation, may serve in an acting capacity because he has been at the department for more than a year at a sufficiently senior pay level. President Trump is denying senators our constitutional obligation and opportunity to do our job: scrutinizing the nomination of our nations top law enforcement official, Blumenthal said in a statement. The reason is simple: Whitaker would never pass the advice and consent test. In selecting a so-called constitutional nobody and thwarting every senators constitutional duty, Trump leaves us no choice but to seek recourse through the courts. The lawsuit comes days after a Washington lawyer challenged Whitakers appointment in a pending Supreme Court case dealing with gun rights. The attorney, Thomas Goldstein, asked the high court to find that Whitakers appointment is unconstitutional and replace him with Deputy Atty. Gen. Rod Rosenstein. Rosenstein, the second-ranking Justice Department official, has been confirmed by the Senate and had been overseeing special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation. Whitaker is now overseeing the investigation. The Justice Department issued a statement Monday defending Whitakers appointment as lawful and said it comports with the Appointments Clause, the Federal Vacancies Reform Act and legal precedent. There are over 160 instances in American history in which non-Senate confirmed persons performed, on a temporary basis, the duties of a Senate-confirmed position, Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said. To suggest otherwise is to ignore centuries of practice and precedent. Facebook

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Gov. Rick Scott says Sen. Bill Nelson concedes Florida Senate race By Associated Press Republican Senate candidate Rick Scott speaks with his wife, Ann, by his side at an election watch party in Naples, Fla., on Nov. 7. (Wilfredo Lee / Associated Press) Floridas Republican Gov. Rick Scott says incumbent Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson called him to concede defeat in their extremely tight race. Scott issued a statement Sunday saying Nelson graciously conceded their Senate race shortly after the states recount ended. The final results show Scott defeated Nelson by just over 10,000 votes out of 8 million cast. Nelson is scheduled to release a videotaped statement later Sunday. The defeat ends Nelsons lengthy political career. The three-term incumbent was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2000. Before that he served six terms in the U.S. House and as state treasurer and insurance commissioner for six years. Scott spent more than $60 million of his own money on ads that portrayed Nelson as out-of-touch and ineffective. Nelson responded by questioning Scotts ethics and saying he would be under the sway of President Trump. Facebook

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Orange County goes blue, as Democrats complete historic sweep of its seven congressional seats By Michael Finnegan Gil Cisneros defeated Republican Young Kim on Saturday in the last of Orange Countys undecided House races, giving Democrats a clean sweep of the states six most fiercely fought congressional contests and marking an epochal shift in a region long synonymous with political conservatism. With Cisneros victory, Democrats will constitute the entirety of Orange Countys seven-member congressional delegation, the first time since the 1930s that the birthplace of Richard Nixon, home of John Wayne and spiritual center of the Republican Party will have no GOP representative in the House. Sitting back in the 1960s, I would never have believed this would happen, said Stuart K. Spencer, a party strategist who spent more than half a century ushering Republicans, including President Reagan, into office. Read More Facebook

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Going, going ... with midterm wipeout, California Republican Party drifts closer to irrelevance By Michael Finnegan For a party in freefall the last two decades, California Republicans learned that its possible to plunge even further. The GOP not only lost every statewide office in the midterm election  again, in blowout fashion  but Democrats reestablished their supermajority in Sacramento, allowing them to legislate however they see fit After major defeats in Orange County and the Central Valley, two longtime strongholds, Republicans will have a significantly smaller footprint on Capitol Hill. (Democrats hold both Senate seats.) When the vote-counting is finished, the GOP may not even have enough lawmakers in Californias 53-member House delegation to field a nine-person softball team. Read More Facebook

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Congresswoman-elect Katie Porter says she will support Rep. Nancy Pelosi for speaker By Maya Sweedler Democratic Rep.-elect Katie Porter is congratulated by volunteers at her campaign headquarters in Irvine. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) Congresswoman-elect Katie Porter said she plans to support Rep. Nancy Pelosis bid for speaker of the House and will make campaign finance reform her top priority when she enters the chamber in January. Im going to continue to have conversations, but so far I feel like Leader Pelosi is definitely making the things that were a priority to the families that elected me her priorities, including announcing her support for campaign finance reform and anti-corruption as HR1, Porter said in her first public appearance since being declared the winner in Californias 45th Congressional District on Thursday evening. It means a lot to me that she is a Californian. She understands our state, Porter added. When we talk about environmental protections, this is a person who understands as a Californian how fragile our environment is and whats at risk in things like drilling off our coasts. Porter, a law professor at UC Irvine, defeated two-term Republican Rep. Mimi Walters. The 45th District, covering inland Orange County, has never been represented by a Democrat. Porter became the third Democrat to claim a Republican-held seat in Orange County, following the victories of Harley Rouda in the 48th District and Mike Levin in the 49th. A fourth, Gil Cisneros, is running slightly ahead of his Republican opponent in the race for the open seat in the 39th District, which extends into Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. Porter attributed the massive political shift in the county, for decades a conservative stronghold, to increased levels of political engagement. Folks here care about education, they care about the environment, they believe climate change is real, they want healthcare that protects preexisting conditions, they want a tax system that doesnt punish California, they want our schools and places of worship to be safe from gun violence, she said. Those are the issues we campaigned on, and to the extent that Donald Trump and Mimi Walters were on the wrong side of those issues, the voters have made clear what direction they want us to go. Porter was flying back from the East Coast when her race was called, she said. She turned on her phone to find 167 text messages from friends and supporters. Among them was Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), who was one of Porters teachers in law school and with whom she has remained close. The pair spoke via FaceTime this morning, she said. Facebook

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Bitter battle for Senate seat in Florida goes to hand recount By Associated Press Employees look through damaged ballots during a recount Thursday in West Palm Beach, Fla. (Wilfredo Lee / Associated Press) Floridas acrimonious battle for the U.S. Senate headed Thursday to a legally required hand recount after an initial review by ballot-counting machines showed Republican Gov. Rick Scott and Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson separated by less than 13,000 votes. But the highly watched contest for governor between Republican Ron DeSantis and Democrat Andrew Gillum appeared to be over, with a machine recount showing DeSantis with a large enough advantage over Gillum to avoid a hand recount in that race. Gillum, who conceded the contest on election night only to retract his concession later, said in a statement that it is not over until every legally casted vote is counted. The recount so far has been fraught with problems. One large Democratic stronghold in South Florida was unable to finish its machine recount by the Thursday deadline due to machines breaking down. A federal judge rejected a request to extend the recount deadline. We gave a heroic effort, said Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Susan Bucher. If the county had three or four more hours, it would have made the deadline to recount ballots in the Senate race, she said. Meanwhile, election officials in another urban county in the Tampa Bay area decided against turning in the results of their machine recount, which came up with 846 fewer votes than originally counted. Media in South Florida reported that Broward County finished its machine recount but missed the deadline by a few minutes. Counties were ordered last weekend to do a machine recount of three statewide races because the margins were so tight. The next stage is a manual review of ballots that were not counted by machines to see whether there is a way to figure out voter intent. Scott called on Nelson to end the recount battle. Its time for Nelson to respect the will of the voters and graciously bring this process to an end rather than proceed with yet another count of the votes  which will yield the same result and bring more embarrassment to the state that we both love and have served, the governor said in a statement. The recount has triggered multiple lawsuits, many of them filed by Nelson and Democrats. The legal battles drew the ire of U.S. District Judge Mark E. Walker, who slammed the state for repeatedly failing to anticipate election problems. He also said the state law on recounts appears to violate the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that decided the presidency in 2000. We have been the laughingstock of the world, election after election, and we chose not to fix this, Walker said during a morning hearing. Walker vented his anger at state lawmakers and Palm Beach County officials, saying they should have made sure they had enough equipment in place to handle this kind of a recount. But he said he could not extend the recount deadline because he did not know when Palm Beach County would finish its work. This court must be able to craft a remedy with knowledge that it will not prove futile, Walker wrote in his ruling turning down the request from Democrats. It cannot do so on this record. This court does not and will not fashion a remedy in the dark. The overarching problem was created by the Florida Legislature, which Walker said passed a recount law that appears to run afoul of the 2000 Bush vs. Gore decision by locking in procedures that do not allow for potential problems. A total of six election-related lawsuits are pending in federal court in Tallahassee as well at least one lawsuit filed in state court. Walker also ordered that voters be given until 5 p.m. Saturday to show a valid identification and fix their ballots if they have not been counted due to mismatched signatures. Republicans appealed the ruling, but an appeals court turned down the request. State officials testified that nearly 4,000 mailed-in ballots were set aside because local officials decided the signatures on the envelopes did not match the signatures on file. If those voters can prove their identity, their votes will be counted and included in final official returns due from each county by noon Sunday. Walker was asked by Democrats to require local officials to provide a list of people whose ballots were rejected. But the judge appointed by President Obama refused the request, calling it inappropriate. Under state law, a hand review is required with races that have a margin of 0.25 percentage points or less. A state website put the unofficial results showing Scott ahead of Nelson by 0.15 percentage points. The margin between DeSantis and Gillum was at 0.41 points. The margin between Scott and Nelson had not changed much in the last few days, conceded Marc Elias, an attorney working for Nelsons campaign. But he said that he expected the vote tally to shrink due to the hand recount and the ruling on signatures. The developments fueled frustrations among Democrats and Republicans alike. Democrats want state officials to do whatever it takes to make sure every eligible vote is counted. Republicans, including President Trump, have argued without evidence that voter fraud threatens to steal races from the GOP. Facebook

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Democrat Gil Cisneros pulls ahead of Republican Young Kim as more votes are tallied in Orange and San Bernardino counties By Michael Finnegan Congressional candidate Gil Cisneros (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Democrat Gil Cisneros pulled ahead of Republican Young Kim in one of Californias undecided congressional races Thursday, an ominous sign for a GOP already reeling from its loss of four House seats in the state. In updated vote counts released by the registrars for Orange and San Bernardino counties, Kim fell 941 votes behind Cisneros in the contest to succeed Republican Rep. Ed Royce in Californias 39th Congressional District. The 39th straddles Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Orange counties. In another unresolved House race, Democrat Katie Porter pulled further ahead of Republican incumbent Mimi Walters in the 45th District, which includes Mission Viejo, Tustin, Irvine, Rancho Santa Margarita and Laguna Hills. Porter, a consumer attorney and UC Irvine law professor, is now 6,203 votes ahead. The Nov. 6 midterm election has been devastating to Republicans in California. If Cisneros and Porter win, the party will have lost six of its 14 House seats in the state, essentially a wipeout in every contest that both parties spent heavily to win. The three Republicans already bounced from Congress are Reps. Dana Rohrabacher of Costa Mesa, Steve Knight of Palmdale and Jeff Denham of Turlock in the San Joaquin Valley. Democrat Mike Levin won the seat of retiring GOP Rep. Darrell Issa of Vista in the fourth district flipped so far. Facebook

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Florida Senate race likely headed to second recount By Associated Press A Palm Beach County Sheriffs deputy walks past boxes of ballots before a recount on Nov. 15 in West Palm Beach, Fla. (Wilfredo Lee) Unofficial Florida election results show that the governors race seems to be settled after a machine recount but the U.S. Senate race is likely headed to a hand recount. Republican Ron DeSantis is virtually assured of winning the nationally watched governors race over Democrat Andrew Gillum. Florida finished a machine recount Thursday that showed Gillum without enough votes to force a manual recount. Unofficial results posted on a state website show the margin between U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson and Gov. Rick Scott is still thin enough to trigger a second review. State law requires a hand recount of races with a margin of 0.25 percentage point or less. Counties have until Sunday to inspect the ballots that did not record a vote when put through the machines. Those ballots are re-examined to see whether the voter skipped the race or marked the ballot in a way that the machines cannot read but can be deciphered. The election will be certified Tuesday. Read More Facebook

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Pelosi says she has the votes to become the next House speaker By John Wagner Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi speaks during a news conference in Washington on Nov. 14. (Susan Walsh) House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi insisted Thursday that she has the votes to become the chambers speaker despite solid opposition from more than a dozen Democrats who want fresh leadership when the party takes control next year. I have overwhelming support in my caucus to be speaker of the House, the San Francisco lawmaker told reporters. I happen to think at this point, Im the best person for that. A vote within the Democratic caucus is scheduled for Nov. 28. The full House votes on Jan. 3 to elect a new speaker. During her remarks, Pelosi touted the size of the Democratic victory in the midterms, which she called almost a tsunami. With a few races still to be decided, Democrats are poised to pick up close to 40 seats in the chamber. Pelosi called that the biggest victory for the Democrats since 1974, when the Watergate babies came in. Pelosis comments come as she faces solid opposition from at least 17 Democrats, setting the stage for a battle over who will ascend to one of the most powerful positions in Washington. After a campaign in which some Democrats prevailed in competitive districts by promising to oppose her, a coalition of incumbents and newly elected members has denied her a smooth path to the speakership. The defections, if they stand, would leave Pelosi, who has led the Democrats for more than 15 years, several votes short of the 218 she would need when the full House votes for speaker Jan. 3. However, no Democrat has stepped forward to run against her for a job she held from 2007 through 2010. Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio) told reporters Wednesday that shes being encouraged to stand for speaker if Pelosi doesnt have the votes. In an interview with the Washington Post on Thursday, she said she has been overwhelmed by the support from many of her colleagues for her possible entry into the race for House speaker. Over the last 12 hours, Ive been overwhelmed by the amount of support Ive received, Fudge said, adding that there are probably closer to 30" Democrats who have privately signaled that they are willing to oppose Pelosi. Things could change rapidly, Fudge said. Fudge, 66, a former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, said she is building a diverse coalition as she mulls a speaker run, talking with allies in the caucus, moderate Democrats and newly elected members. To this point, Pelosi has enjoyed the strong backing of the Congressional Black Caucus. On Thursday, Rep. Bobby Rush (D-Ill.), one of its members, wrote a letter to colleagues praising her insight, fortitude and strategic thinking and urging support for her speakership bid. Former Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr., an African American who is contemplating a 2020 presidential bid, also voiced support for Pelosi, praising her in a tweet as an architect of the recent midterm success. Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), a leader of the resistance to Pelosi, said during an interview on CNN on Thursday that Fudge is the kind of new leader that we need in this party. Shes in touch with middle America. She understands what the American people want. Shes a next-generation leader that people will look to and say, Thats the future of our party, thats the future of our country, and thats exactly the kind of leader that I want to see as our next speaker. Wagner reports for the Washington Post. The Posts Robert Costa, Erica Werner, Mike DeBonis, Paul Kane and Elise Viebeck contributed to this report. Facebook

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GOP Rep. Jeff Denham concedes to Democrat Josh Harder in Central Valley race By Maya Sweedler Rep. Jeff Denham (Bill Clark / CQ Roll Call) Republican Rep. Jeff Denham has conceded to Democrat Josh Harder in the race to represent Californias 10th Congressional District in the San Joaquin Valley. It has been an absolute honor to serve our community and represent the Central Valley in Congress over the past eight years, the 51-year-old congressman said. The enormity of the responsibility was never lost on me. My wife Sonia and I look forward to starting the next chapter of our lives. Harder said he had spoken with Denham and the two were committed to a productive transition. Denham, an Air Force veteran, previously represented the region in the state Senate for eight years and founded a company specializing in plastic packaging used in agriculture. While a member of Congress, he sat on the Transportation and Infrastructure, Veterans Affairs and Agriculture committees. First-time candidate Harder was born and raised in the district. After graduating from Stanford University, he served as vice president of a Silicon Valley venture capital firm. Since moving back, he has been teaching at Modesto Junior College. Denhams House seat is one of four in California that Republicans lost in the Nov. 6 election, with two contests in Orange County still undecided as of Thursday morning. Jeff Denham called me this morning and we had a very productive conversation. I'm honored that I've been chosen to serve our community in Congress, and we're both looking forward to a productive transition that best serves the people of District 10.  Josh Harder (@JoshHarder) November 14, 2018 Facebook

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Democrat Katie Porter now nearly 3,800 votes ahead of GOP Rep. Mimi Walters By Maya Sweedler Rep. Mimi Walters thanks all of her supporters as she watches election results in Irvine on Nov. 7, 2018. (Alex Gallardo / Associated Press) Democrat Katie Porter opened a 3,797-vote lead Wednesday over Republican Rep. Mimi Walters in Orange Countys 45th Congressional District. In the neighboring 39th, Democrat Gil Cisneros has nearly tied the race against Republican Young Kim. Cisneros now trails Kim by a razor-thin margin of 122 votes. The 39th District straddles Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties; Wednesdays updated ballot counts came from the latter two. There are more than 202,000 ballots left to count in Orange County, which includes parts of seven congressional districts. The 45th is entirely in inland Orange County. In California, the ballots counted first tend to lean Republican and those tallied later skew Democratic. In the Central Valleys 21st Congressional District, Democratic challenger TJ Cox has pulled within 2 percentage points of Rep. David Valadao, who is serving his third term. The Associated Press had projected a win for Valadao on election night, but his 4,839-vote advantage has shrunk to 2,090. Back in CA-21, Valadao (R) wins a batch of ballots from his stronghold in Kings Co., but by a considerably smaller margin (14 points) than his previous ~30-point margin in the county. We're moving to Lean R from Likely R; today a bit scary for Valadao.https://t.co/WqJVUVkqGW  Nate Silver (@NateSilver538) November 15, 2018 A spokesman for Valadao told the Fresno Bee that the changes were expected and that [s]tatistically, David Valadao has won this race. Democrats in California have already flipped four House seats, defeating three Republican incumbents and claiming an open seat previously held by the GOP. Reps. Steve Knight of Palmdale, Dana Rohrabacher of Costa Mesa and Jeff Denham of Turlock have already lost their races, and retiring Rep. Darrell Issas San Diego County seat was claimed by Democrat Mike Levin. Facebook

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Trump aide departs West Wing after rebuke from Melania Trump By Associated Press First Lady Melania Trump. (Alain Jocard / AFP-Getty Images) Deputy national security advisor Mira Ricardel is leaving the White House, one day after First Lady Melania Trumps office issued an extraordinary statement calling for her dismissal. No replacement was named. Aides said Ricardel clashed with the first ladys staff over her visit to Africa last month. Yet it is highly unusual for a first lady or her office to weigh in on personnel matters, especially the presidents national security staff. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Ricardel would have a new role in the administration. On Tuesday, Stephanie Grisham, the first ladys spokeswoman, released a statement saying, It is the position of the Office of the First Lady that she no longer deserves the honor of serving in this White House. President Trumps White House has set records for administration turnover. Ricardel was the third person to hold the post under Trump. An ally of national security advisor John Bolton, Ricardel began her service in the Trump administration as associate director in the White House Office of Presidential Personnel, then moved to the Commerce Department last year. Bolton brought her into the West Wing shortly after taking the job in April. He is traveling in Asia this week alongside Vice President Mike Pence. Facebook

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Race for House Minority Leader is Kevin McCarthys to lose By Associated Press (Bill Clark / CQ Roll Call) House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy is running to take over next years shrunken caucus in closed-door elections that will set the tone for the new Congress. The race for minority leader is McCarthys to lose Wednesday. But the California Republican, who is an ally of President Trump, must fend off a challenge from conservative Jim Jordan of Ohio. Jordan is a leader of the House Freedom Caucus. The two encountered questions and finger-pointing during a private meeting with lawmakers Tuesday night as the GOP sorted through the midterm defeat that put Democrats in the majority next year. Elections Wednesday will also determine party leadership in the Senate. Voting for the biggest race, Nancy Pelosis bid to return as the Democrats nominee for speaker, is later this month. Read More Facebook

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Melania Trump calls for the firing of deputy national security advisor By Justin Sink First Lady Melania Trump arrives at the Chateau de Versailles outside Paris on Nov. 11. (Alain Jocard / AFP/Getty Images ) First Lady Melania Trumps office said she wants Mira Ricardel, the deputy national security advisor, ousted from the White House. It is the position of the Office of the First Lady that she no longer deserves the honor of serving in this White House, Trumps spokeswoman, Stephanie Grisham, said in a statement in response to a question about reports the first lady had sought Ricardels removal. Ricardel is the top deputy to national security advisor John Bolton. She drew the first ladys wrath after threatening to withhold National Security Council resources during Melania Trumps trip to Africa last month unless Ricardel was included in her entourage, one person familiar with the matter said. Grishams statement comes as several media outlets have reported that President Trump is considering a broader shakeup of his administration, including ousting Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen. Sink and Jacobs report for Bloomberg. Read More Facebook

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CNN sues Trump over the suspension of Jim Acostas White House press credentials By Jim Puzzanghera CNN said Tuesday that it is suing President Trump and other administration officials over the decision to suspend the White House press credentials of correspondent Jim Acosta after a conflict at a news conference last week. The suit, to be filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, escalates an ongoing battle between Trump and the cable news outlet that he frequently accuses of disseminating fake news for its aggressive coverage of him and his administration. The wrongful revocation of these credentials violates CNN and Acostas 1st Amendment rights of freedom of the press, and their 5th Amendment rights to due process, CNN said in a written statement. If left unchallenged, the actions of the White House would create a dangerous chilling effect for any journalist who covers our elected officials. Read More Facebook

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Maxine Waters to take aim at Wells Fargo and Deutsche Bank as new head of House Financial Services Committee By Jim Puzzanghera Rep. Maxine Waters plans to zero in on two big banks  Wells Fargo & Co. and Deutsche Bank  when she becomes head of the powerful House Financial Services Committee. The Los Angeles congresswoman, now the committees top Democrat, is widely expected to gain the gavel after her party won control of the House in last weeks elections. While Waters has outlined a wide-ranging agenda, she said her focus on bank oversight will target two large institutions she has been tangling with for a while  including one, Deutsche Bank, that spills into her bitter feud with President Trump. With Trump in the White House, I know that our fight for Americas consumers and investors will continue to be challenging. But I am more than up to that fight, Waters wrote in a letter last week to her Democratic colleagues on the committee that was obtained by The Times. Read More Facebook

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Heres how a controversial voting system will decide a congressional race in Maine By Kurtis Lee For the first time in U.S. history, a controversial voting system known as ranked choice is being used to decide a federal election. Its happening in Maine, which adopted the system in 2016. Rather than marking a single candidate, each voter ranks them all, assigning a first-place vote, a second-place vote and so on down the ballot. Read More Facebook

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ACLU files suit to stop Trumps new asylum limits By Associated Press A group of Central American migrants march to the office of the U.N.'s humans rights body in Mexico City on Nov. 8. (Rebecca Blackwell / Associated Press) The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a legal challenge to President Trumps order denying asylum to migrants if they cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally. The lawsuit was filed Friday in federal court in San Francisco and argues the new rules are against the law. Attorney Lee Gelernt said the regulations will put families in danger. The suit seeks to declare the regulations invalid and wants a judge to stop the rules from going into effect while the litigation is pending. The new rules were spurred in part by caravans of Central American migrants slowly moving north on foot, but officials say they will apply to anyone caught crossing illegally. Officials say about 70,000 people who enter the country illegally claim asylum. The order invoked the same national security powers Trump used to push through his travel ban. Read More Facebook

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Trump on new acting AG: I dont know Matt Whitaker By Associated Press President Trump talks with reporters before departing for France on the South Lawn of the White House on Nov. 9. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) President Trump is moving to distance himself from Matthew Whitaker as he faces criticism over his choice for acting attorney general. Trump told reporters Friday that I dont know Matt Whitaker and said he didnt speak with Whitaker about special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation. Whitaker has made public comments critical of Muellers investigation, and critics have called on Whitaker to recuse himself from oversight of the inquiry. Under former Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions, the investigation was overseen by Deputy Atty. Gen. Rod Rosenstein. Of the scrutiny Whitaker is facing, Trump said: Its a shame that no matter who I put in they go after. He also called Whitaker a very highly respected man. Whitaker was Sessions chief of staff before Trump made him Sessions interim replacement. Facebook

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Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg out of hospital after fall By Associated Press The Supreme Court says 85-year-old Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is home after being released from the hospital. She had been admitted for treatment and observation after fracturing three ribs in a fall. The court said Ginsburg was released Friday. Supreme Court spokeswoman Kathy Arberg says she is doing well and working from home. The court had previously said the justice fell in her office at the court on Wednesday evening and went to George Washington University Hospital in Washington early Thursday after experiencing discomfort overnight. Ginsburg broke two ribs in a fall in 2012. She had two prior bouts with cancer and had a stent implanted to open a blocked artery in 2014. Facebook

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Gun-control activist Lucy McBath defeats GOP Rep. Karen Handel in Georgia By Associated Press Lucy McBath speaks during a rally for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams on Nov. 2 at Morehouse College in Atlanta. (Alyssa Pointer / Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) Democratic gun-control activist Lucy McBath has defeated Republican Rep. Karen Handel of Georgia in a suburban congressional district long considered safe for the GOP. Handel had to seek reelection after winning her seat last year in a close special election race against Democrat Jon Ossoff. McBath became an advocate for stricter gun laws after her son, Jordan Davis, was fatally shot at a Florida gas station in 2012 by a man angry over loud music the teenager and his friends were playing in a car. McBaths margin of victory was narrow enough for Handel to have requested a recount. The Associated Press declared McBath the winner Thursday after Handel conceded. Handel conceded in a statement Thursday morning, stating that after reviewing all of the election data, its clear she came up a bit short in Tuesdays vote. Handel congratulated McBath, offering good thoughts and much prayer for the journey that lies ahead for her. McBath, who is African American, declared victory Wednesday. Facebook

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Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg hospitalized after fracturing 3 ribs in fall By Associated Press Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Jacquelyn Martin / Associated Press) The Supreme Court says 85-year-old Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg fractured three ribs in a fall in her office at the court and is in the hospital. The court says the justice went to George Washington University Hospital in Washington early Thursday after experiencing discomfort overnight. The court says the fall occurred Wednesday evening. Ginsburg was admitted to the hospital for treatment and observation after tests showed she fractured three ribs. Ginsburg broke two ribs in a fall in 2012. She has had two prior bouts with cancer and had a stent implanted to open a blocked artery in 2014. Facebook

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White House suspends press pass of CNNs Jim Acosta after heated exchange with Trump By Associated Press The White House on Wednesday suspended the press pass of CNN correspondent Jim Acosta after he and President Trump had a heated confrontation during a news conference. They began sparring after Acosta asked Trump about the caravan of migrants heading from Latin America to the southern U.S. border. When Acosta tried to follow up with another question, Trump said, Thats enough! and a female White House aide unsuccessfully tried to grab the microphone from Acosta. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders released a statement accusing Acosta of placing his hands on a young woman just trying to do her job as a White House intern, calling it absolutely unacceptable. The interaction between Acosta and the intern was brief, and Acosta appeared to brush her arm as she reached for the microphone and he tried to hold onto it. Pardon me, maam, he told her. Acosta tweeted that Sanders statement that he put his hands on the aide was a lie. CNN said in a statement that the White House revoked Acostas press pass in retaliation for his challenging questions Wednesday, and the network accused Sanders of lying about Acostas actions. This conduct is absolutely unacceptable. It is also completely disrespectful to the reporters colleagues not to allow them an opportunity to ask a question. President Trump has given the press more access than any President in history.  Stephanie Grisham (@PressSec) November 8, 2018 Contrary to CNNs assertions there is no greater demonstration of the Presidents support for a free press than the event he held today. Only they would attack the President for not supporting a free press in the midst of him taking 68 questions from 35 different reporters...  Stephanie Grisham (@PressSec) November 8, 2018 As a result of todays incident, the White House is suspending the hard pass of the reporter involved until further notice.  Stephanie Grisham (@PressSec) November 8, 2018 Sanders provided fraudulent accusations and cited an incident that never happened. This unprecedented decision is a threat to our democracy and the country deserves better, CNN said. Jim Acosta has our full support. Journalists assigned to cover the White House apply for passes that allow them daily access to press areas in the West Wing. White House staffers decide whether journalists are eligible, though the Secret Service determines whether their applications are approved. Facebook

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Trump spars with reporters at post-election news briefing, ordering several to sit down By Associated Press  President Trump assails CNNs Jim Acosta at a White House news conference. President Trump sparred with reporters at his post-election news conference, ordering several to sit down and telling another hes a rude, terrible person. He told another reporter hes not a fan of yours, either. The presidents mood turned sour Wednesday after reporters pressed him on why he referred to a migrant caravan making its way to the U.S. on foot through Mexico as an invasion. Trump ramped up his anti-immigrant rhetoric against the caravan in the final days of the midterm elections. Trump was also pressed on why his campaign aired an ad featuring a Mexican immigrant convicted of killing American police officers and linking the mans actions to the caravan. Several television networks pulled the ad after airing it or declined to air it at all. Facebook

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Im living one hour at a time at this point By Christine Mai-Duc Republican congressional candidate Young Kim and gubernatorial candidate John Cox campaign in Rowland Heights. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Republican congressional candidate Young Kim greeted gubernatorial candidate John Coxs giant campaign bus, the words HELP IS ON THE WAY emblazoned across it, as it rolled into the parking lot outside her Rowland Heights field office. Standing beside Cox on Saturday, Kim predicted that a string of GOP victories Tuesday would start with voters repealing the gas tax hike. Can you imagine Gavin Newsom being our governor? Can you imagine Gil Cisneros being your representative? Kim asked the crowd, to loud boos and cries of Nooo! The former state assemblywoman who worked for retiring Rep. Ed Royce (R-Fullerton) is vying for his seat with Democrat Gil Cisneros. She led the crowd in chants of Enough is enough! and, though short-lived, Drain the swamp! Ive served you in Sacramento and Ive seen dysfunction personally, Kim continued. We cannot continue that route. She urged her supporters to stay and help make phone calls or walk neighborhoods. Lets get out there  the 72 hours is really critical. Its all going to come down to a few votes, it could be your vote, she said pointing to her left, then pivoting right, it could be your vote. So dont sit back and do nothing. Every night I go to sleep thinking, OK, how many more votes can I get or how many more people can I call tomorrow? Kim said. It can be physically exhausting but Im mentally, emotionally very energized. She listed off her events so far that day  and the next one she was heading to. Thats just what I can remember, she said. Im living one hour at a time at this point. Kims campaign invited press to two of her events on Saturday. After she was whisked away to her next event  a high tea fundraiser in Walnut, a couple dozen volunteers remained. John Freeman, a statewide field manager for the state Republican Party, tried to pump them up. This is the Super Bowl. Were not in an NFL stadium, were not getting paid millions of dollars, but you know what? Freeman said. Were walking on the field right now. This is that high-stakes-level game. Facebook

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Its going to be tough out there Democratic candidate Katie Porter speaks to volunteers in Mission Viejo. Jon Bauman, Bowzer from the band Sha Na Na, is in the background. (Victoria Kim / Los Angeles Times ) Judging from the cheers in the crowd, about half those assembled at Katie Porters campaign headquarters in Mission Viejo Sunday morning were old enough to remember 70s rock n roll star Bowzer from the band Sha Na Na. Jon Bauman, as Bowzer is known off stage, said it was her position on senior issues including retirement and social security that has him out supporting Porter over her opponent, incumbent Rep. Mimi Walters. I want you to make sure every phone is called and every door is knocked, he told the crowd of about 80 volunteers. There has never been a more important election. Both Bauman and his nephew, California Democratic Party Chairman Eric Bauman, were interrupted by yells from Trump supporters coming from an adjoining hillside. We love Trump, the voice cried out. We love him too, he makes great fodder, the younger Bauman retorted, before introducing Porter. Porter, a UC Irvine law professor and first-time candidate, acknowledged the uphill battle some of her canvassers might face in this more conservative end of the long-red Orange County district. I know its going to be tough out there, she said, motioning to the hillside. But she said the attacks meant the other side viewed her campaign as a significant threat. This election is going to be close, she said. If we dont fight all the way to the finish line, until 8 oclock on Tuesday, this could slip away. Bowzer then took to a keyboard piano to lead the crowd in a reworded rendition of the song Good Night Sweetheart: Good night, Mimi Walters, he crooned. A woman in a black tank top, jeans and flip flops holding a cup of coffee later joined the crowd with her two sons, 17 and 14, the younger one wearing a Trump 2016 T-shirt. She declined to give her name, saying she was concerned about being attacked, but said she lived up the hill and said she had been the one yelling. She said she was encouraging her sons to talk to people on both sides and make up their own minds. We need to have a government that runs the way government teachers are telling kids its supposed to be run, said the woman, a retired registered dental assistant who voted early for Mimi Walters. Referring to Democrats, she said: Theyve had control over all these years and Californias gone to crap. Among those canvassing was Stacie Campbell, 37, who was at the launch with her husband Jerome and three children, the youngest of whom was 2 months old. Campbell, a Mission Viejo resident who runs a business, had never canvassed or volunteered for campaigns before, and her husband is a French citizen and unable to vote. She said they had been talking to their children  the older ones are 5 and 2  about the presidency and the government since Trumps election. Together, they worked on homemade Katie Porter lawn signs and put them up around town. This is the first time its felt like a big deal and there isnt a president up for election, she said. Because her city is a mix of conservatives and liberals  her next-door neighbor is an NRA-supporting Republican  she the race felt mHappy Valentines Day to the Founders Guild at Adventist Health Glendale.

On Friday, guild members extended their own Valentine wishes to guests at a Be Our Valentine luncheon starring the The Love Boats Bernie Kopell and author and Glendales own Jeraldine Saunders.

The Oakmont Country Club was decked out in a nautical theme as supporters took full advantage of an early silent auction and boutique to spend their bounty.

A boutique favorite was wearable art jewelry designed by Yeva Adalyan. Guild board member Liz Mirzaian contributed her handmade jewelry to the silent auction that began racking up bids.

Eventually, the goodies were temporarily abandoned as Alice Petrossian, guild board president, welcomed close to 300 supporters for lunch.

While guests enjoyed their chicken and asparagus, Petrossian described the guild and its volunteers who help support the Play to Learn Center for special needs children.

It was the appearances of Saunders and Kopell that had guests fully onboard. Saunders is best known as the creator of ABC-TVs The Love Boat.

The series is based on the autobiography she wrote 40 years ago describing her years as the first full-time female cruise director on the high seas.

Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and owner of Glendales HealWithin, Liza Boubari is set to sail on her own Lifes Journey upcoming event. (Ruth Sowby Rands / Glendale News-Press )

But today, this glamorous 94-year-old was wheelchair bound as she recovers from a broken femur sustained at her home just before she was set to sail on a Mexican cruise with nephew Jeffery Kobes, present at the luncheon.

Now Im sailing at Glendale Adventist, said the feisty Saunders, They let me out for the luncheon.

Saunders has been a guild member for many years. She contributed a Cruise Diary for each guest to take home.

A bit upstaged by Saunders, but well holding his own, Kopell described his role as Dr. Adam Bricker on The Love Boat.

From 1977 to 1986, Kopell appeared in 250 episodes. Informally known as The Love Doctor, Kopell is married and the father of two sons.

Helping to boost luncheon proceeds, guild board member Sandy Moreno and Play to Learn Centers Traci Jones-Martinez sent baskets through the crowd signing up those pledging to financially support the center.

Kathy Lefkovits, a board member mover and shaker, was especially persuasive. In her Foundation Message, hospital Foundation President Irene Bourdon also played up the Play to Learn Center.

Besides contributing to the play center, luncheon proceeds of $500,000 will help the hospital purchase a linear accelerator for radiation treatments for cancer patients.

Altrusa Club hosts event

Glendales Altrusa Club lived up to its motto at its recent annual Tri Club dinner at La Divina Cucina in Montrose. With Glendale club members as hosts, the Arcadia club and Los Angeles club joined them in supporting Patriotism, Efficiency and Service.

Since 1955, Altrusa Glendale members have upheld those words in serving Glendale and neighboring communities.

As host club members at the Tri Club dinner at La Divina Cucina, Altrusa Glendale VIPs are, from left, Past President Pat Zayas, Current President Donnalee Monninger and Vice President Rose Tharp. (Ruth Sowby Rands / Glendale News-Press )

Donnalee Monninger, two-term Altrusa Glendale president and Glendale resident, welcomed some 25 members and guests. Dining on Italian food while chatting and merry-making was the order of the day.

Newly initiated Altrusa Glendale member Tim Moore entertained and informed as speaker extraordinaire. Moore is a returning member who has advised some of his fellow members on their financial investments.

Moore has over 30 years experience in the financial service industry. He recently opened his own registered investment advisory so he could focus on teaching financial literacy.

This evening, Tri Club members and guests had the benefit of Moores financial knowledge. He titled his talk Anything You Wanted to Know About Money But Were Afraid to Ask.

One brave member wasnt afraid. Altrusa Glendale past president Pat Zayas asked, How much should be saved for retirement? Moores answer  $950 per month.

While contemplating Moores answers, all dipped into La Divina Cucinas signature dessert, spumoni. Full tummies and well-taken financial advice ended the evening.

RUTH SOWBY RANDS may be reached at ruthasowby@gmail.com.For cruise lovers, it was a day of good news surpassed by even better news.

It started with a grand opening at Carnival Cruise Line, a razzle-dazzle new Port of Long Beach terminal.

In honor of the expanded facility, the Miami-based cruise giant moved the 3,012-passenger Carnival Splendor, one of its jazziest ships, to Long Beach to sail weeklong Mexican Riviera cruises.

But then came the big news: The cruise line plans to send the new 3,954-passenger ship Carnival Panorama to Long Beach in 2019.

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For the first time in 20 years, a brand new ship will sail straight from the yard to Long Beach, Christine Duffy, the lines president, said during the opening ceremony Saturday.

Then came another announcement: Carnival will spend millions on a major port development project in Ensenada, Mexico, featured on the lines three- and four-day cruises from Long Beach. The project will provide new dining and retail experiences besides new attractions.

All the changes are aimed at building the Long Beach cruising market, said Duffy, noting that there is a significant population of people who can drive to this port within a half-day or less.

Carnivals Long Beach Cruise Terminal, already one of the busiest in North America, with ships docking five days a week, has been operated by Carnival since 2003, Duffy added. Three- to 13-day voyages depart from here, usually bound for Mexico, bringing about 650,000 passengers a year into the port for embarkation and debarkation.

The Long Beach facility is unlike any other terminal in the world. Its geodesic dome, originally built to house Howard Hughes Spruce Goose seaplane, soars to 13 stories at its highest point.

With its multimillion-dollar expansion, Carnival took over the entire dome for its terminal operations, doubling the space for passengers.

The design inside the terminal is whimsical, reflecting the cruise lines Fun Ship brand and Californias laid-back attitude and landmarks. A 267-foot-long mural of the Sierra Nevada covers one wall.

A walkway lined with palm and olive trees cuts through the center of the terminal. Picnic benches and flooring that mimics grass and sand lend a park-like feeling.

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A replica of the wooden seaplane Spruce Goose hangs above the entrance, as well as the original model of the plane used in the 2004 movie The Aviator.

The enormous plane, built and flown by Hughes in 1947, was stashed in the giant Long Beach dome as a tourist attraction. It was removed in 1992. It was moved to the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville, Ore.

Guests check in at Carnivals renovated Long Beach terminal (Carnival Cruise Line )

The renovated terminals efficiency is its best feature, said passengers using it for the first time.

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I dreaded boarding the ship, said Amanda Sacayan, a San Diego County resident who was about to set sail on a weeklong Mexican Riviera trip on the Carnival Splendor, but it was really smooth. I had expected stress, but it wasnt stressful at all.

This is bucket list for me. Im so excited.

Splendor, christened in 2008, features an over-the-top design with pink walls covered with polka dots and black tile with lime green grout. It arrived in Long Beach in late January and will sail Mexican itineraries, for the most part, until 2019, when it will move to Sydney, Australia, when Carnival Panorama arrives.

Besides the Splendor, the 2,056-passenger Carnival Inspiration and the Carnival Imagination will continue to sail from Long Beach, mainly on three- to four-day cruises that visit Catalina and Ensenada. Rates for these cruises start at $239 per person, double occupancy, for an inside cabin.

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Carnival Splendors weeklong sailings to the Mexican Riviera start at $439; the ship will also sail round trip to Hawaii on two-week voyages, from $1,229, and 14-day Alaska trip that starts at $1,339.

Reservations for Carnival Panorama are expected to open in late March.

travel@latimes.com

@latimestravelDisney Cruise Line will bring its special form of Wonder to San Diego again this year and in 2019, according to a recent company announcement.

In the process, it will help the Port of San Diego more firmly establish itself as a place where Southern California passengers can find cruises that will transport them to ports in Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, South America and the Panama Canal.

This cruise ship gets more Instagram love than any other 

San Diegos cruise port, which is smaller than ports in Long Beach and Los Angeles, will welcome 96 cruise ship calls in 2018 to 2019, compared with 83 calls in 2017 to 2018. An estimated 280,000 passengers will set sail there.

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Most sailings from San Diego, a seasonal cruise port, take place from September and through May.

Other than the Disney cruises, which occur in the spring, San Diego offers cruises on Holland America Cruise Lines Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam, which sail to the Mexican Riviera and Hawaiian Islands.

In addition, Holland Americas Volendam occasionally sails to South America and the Panama Canal.

What we are seeing is Disney increasing calls over this season and Holland America Line offering newer and larger vessels in the San Diego market next season, said Marguerite Elicone, a San Diego port spokeswoman. Capacity in San Diego is increasing to meet the increasing demand.

Disneys Wonder departs San Diego from March to May sailing to Mexico; cruises range from two to seven days. Prices start at $1,184 per person for an inside cabin.

Most sailings call on Ensenada. Four- and five-night Baja cruises include a visit to Cabo San Lucas.

Seven-night sailings to the Mexican Riviera call on Cabo San Lucas and feature the snorkeling and scuba diving hot spots of Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan on the Mexican mainland.

Info: Disney Cruise Line, (800) 951-3532

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travel@latimes.com

Twitter: @latimestravelSouth African President Jacob Zuma was presented with two options by his party Monday: Resign within 48 hours or face dismissal.

The ultimatum came at the end of a marathon meeting of the governing committee of the African National Congress, which has been locked in a bitter power struggle over Zumas fate.

Zumas term, which was due to end next year, has been tainted by corruption scandals and allegations that he allowed a powerful business family to gain sweeping influence over Cabinet appointments and contracts. His deputy, Cyril Ramaphosa, and supporters, are determined to force Zuma from power, after talks in recent days to try to reach an exit deal for the president.

Ramaphosa won the leadership of the party  by a narrow margin  at a national conference of the ANC last year, putting him in a position to succeed Zuma after elections due next year. He and his supporters fear that unless Zuma is swiftly ousted, the party would struggle to rebuild its declining support before the elections.

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The ANCs national executive committee, a body of 107 people that governs the party and has the power to recall or dismiss the president, met at a hotel near Pretoria on Monday. Under ANC traditions, a president is obliged to bow to the committees decision, but some fear Zuma may defy the party and refuse to go.

He has clung doggedly to office in recent weeks despite his deputys efforts to dislodge him and calls on him to resign by party leaders.

A move to force him out risks alienating sections of the deeply divided ANC, in the lead-up to elections.

Should Zuma defy the NEC and refuse to stand down, members of the party may vote against him in a vote of no confidence in parliament this month. With opposition support, this would likely see him toppled.

Under that scenario, the entire Cabinet would fall. The speaker, Baleka Mbete, would become acting president for a maximum of 30 days until the parliament voted in a new leader. Zuma has survived a succession of no confidence votes, including a vote last year that was a secret ballot, freeing ANC members of the obligation to vote on party lines. Since then, however, numbers in the ANC have turned against him.

In South Africas political system, the president is not elected by the population, but by lawmakers from the majority party in the lower house of parliament.

In recent weeks, Ramaphosas faction pressed for Zuma to go early  complaining there were two conflicting centers of power in the country and calling for his departure to provide transition and closure. Civil society groups, anti-corruption organizations and the opposition party have also called for Zuma to be sacked, after damaging corruption scandals and allegations of financial mismanagement.

But when ANC leaders met with Zuma this month requesting he stand down to enable a transition, he refused, telling them he did not know what they meant by the word.

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Last week Ramaphosa tweeted that he was having constructive talks with Zuma. On the weekend, however, he hardened his line, saying that Mondays NEC meeting would finalize the matter.

As the leadership of the African National Congress, we are currently engaged in discussions around the transition to a new administration and specifically to resolve the issues of the position of the president of the Republic. The NEC will be meeting tomorrow to discuss this very matter and because our people want this matter to be finalized, the NEC will be doing precisely that, Ramaphosa said at a speech in Cape Town on Sunday marking the 28th anniversary of the release of Nelson Mandela from prison. Mandela went on to become the nations first black president.

For Ramaphosa, Zumas removal is a delicate operation, partly because Zuma still commands significant support, especially in his home province of Kwazulu-Natal. Zuma joined the ANC in 1959, headed the intelligence arm of the ANCs underground military wing and was jailed for 10 years on Robben Island for his activities.

Ramaphosa needs to unify the party, not alienate Zuma supporters or anger his allies. He has promised a sweeping crackdown on corruption.

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The opposition Democratic Alliance has demanded any exit deal be made public and threatened to go to court to overturn any immunity offer.

robyn.dixon@latimes.com

Twitter: @RobynDixon_LAT

UPDATES:

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9:07 p.m.: This article was updated with the news of the ultimatum presented to Zuma.

This article was originally published at 8:10 a.m.South Africas deputy president consolidated his control of the government on Sunday, promising to conclude a power transition in which he would succeed President Jacob Zuma, who faces widespread calls to resign because of corruption allegations.

Standing on the balcony of Cape Towns pillared City Hall, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered what amounted to a state of the nation address of the kind that Zuma was unable to give as scheduled last week because of the leadership crisis in South Africa, which has one of the continents biggest economies.

Ramaphosa, Zumas expected successor, set out a policy agenda for the year in his nationally televised speech, which marked the beginning of commemorations of the centenary of Nelson Mandelas birth on July 18, 1918. Then he referred to the topic that people really wanted to hear about  his confidential negotiations in recent days with Zuma over the presidents exit after a scandal-marred tenure.

The ruling ANC partys national executive committee will discuss Zumas fate at a meeting Monday and because our people want this matter to be finalized, the national executive committee will be doing precisely that, Ramaphosa said.

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He said his discussions with Zuma had to be conducted with care and purpose and with the aim of uniting South Africans. The political opposition criticized the private talks, saying the 75-year-old president may have been pressing for an exit package in exchange for his resignation.

The Democratic Alliance, the biggest opposition party, referred to unconfirmed media reports that Zuma demanded a state security detail for himself and his family as well as payment by the state of his legal fees.

He must be prosecuted and, if found guilty, be locked up for his crimes, the Democratic Alliance said.

Zuma denies wrongdoing, but he has been discredited by scandals, including multimillion-dollar upgrades to his private home that were paid by the state, suspected looting of state enterprises by his associates and the possible reinstatement of corruption charges tied to an arms deal two decades ago.

In his speech, the deputy president said the government would wage a relentless war against corruption and mismanagement of the resources of our country and that the justice system will punish the guilty.

We are determined to rebuild the confidence of our people in the public institutions of our country and to restore the credibility of those who are elected to serve in those institutions, said Ramaphosa, a key negotiator during the transition from apartheid to democracy in the early 1990s who later became a wealthy businessman.

Ramaphosa, 65, joined Zumas Cabinet as deputy in 2014 and replaced the president as head of the African National Congress in December, providing political cover for his increasing attacks on corruption at top levels of government. He has faced criticism for previously keeping a low profile on the issue for much of his time as Zumas deputy, though supporters say he was biding his time and planned to engineer changes from within the government and ruling party.

The occasion of Ramaphosas speech was heavy with symbolism because he spoke from the same balcony where Mandela spoke on Feb. 11, 1990, after he was released from prison by the white minority government of the time. On that euphoric day, a bearded Ramaphosa held the microphone for Mandela as the anti-apartheid leader who would become South Africas first black president addressed well-wishers.

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Mandela, who had been jailed for 27 years, electrified the crowd, repeating lines about the dream of a multiracial democracy that he spoke at his 1960s trial on sabotage charges.

It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die, said Mandela, who died in 2013 at the age of 95.

When Mandela finished his speech in 1990, Ramaphosa briefly addressed the crowd.

Comrades, let us now all disperse in an orderly fashion, he said.Iranian academics and environmentalists are demanding answers from authorities after several colleagues were arrested on espionage charges and one, a prominent professor, died in prison.

Kavous Seyed Emami, a sociology professor who also held Canadian citizenship, hanged himself while in solitary confinement in Tehrans Evin Prison, where political prisoners are usually held, Iranian judicial officials said over the weekend.

His family and colleagues doubt the governments account that he killed himself.

Seyed Emami had been arrested two weeks earlier along with seven other environmental activists who were accused of using their work as a cover for passing intelligence to foreigners, officials said.

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The arrests were not publicly disclosed until Seyed Emamis family on Saturday announced his death. It was the fourth case in recent weeks  following anti-government protests that swept the country  of a prisoner dying in custody in what officials labeled a suicide.

They say he committed suicide, his son Ramin Seyed Emami, a musician who goes by the stage name King Raam, wrote on Instagram. I still cant believe this.

The news of my father's passing is impossible to fathom. Kavous Seyed Emami was arrested on Wednesday 24 January 2018, and the news of his death was released to my mom, Maryam, on Friday the 9th of February. I still cant believe this.  King Raam (@kingraam) February 10, 2018

The environmentalist, who was arrested Jan. 24, appeared to have been caught up in an ongoing crackdown by hardline forces against Iranians who hold dual citizenship in Western countries. Thousands of pro-reform activists, members of minority religious groups and other presumed opponents of the Shiite Muslim theocracy were also detained after anti-government protests erupted Dec. 28.

The Center for Human Rights in Iran, an advocacy group based in New York, said Monday that Seyed Emamis family had called for an independent autopsy, though it wasnt immediately clear whether one had been performed. The center said the family was under intense pressure to immediately bury Seyed Emami in a private funeral without receiving any independent and medically corroborated information on the cause of his death.

If they have nothing to hide, they could allow the family to gain possession of the body and do an independent autopsy, the centers executive director, Hadi Ghaemi, said in an interview.

ENVIRONMENTAL WARRIORS: Defending the environment has become a suicide mission in many parts of the world 

The public prosecutor of Tehran, Abbas Jafari Dolatabadi, said Sunday that Seyed Emami killed himself after confessing to wrongdoing, but did not offer details.

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Since he knew that many confessions had been made against him, and he himself had made confessions, he has unfortunately committed suicide in prison, Dolatabadi was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency.

Alaeddin Boroujerdi, head of the national security committee in Irans parliament, said he watched closed-circuit video Monday showing Seyed Emami changing clothes in his prison cell. That indicated he was getting ready to commit suicide, the lawmaker was quoted as saying by Mizan, the mouthpiece of Irans judiciary.

Seyed Emami was co-founder of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, a nongovernmental organization that fights for the protection of indigenous animals, including the rare Asiatic cheetah, of which there are believed to be only about 50 remaining in Iran.

Kavous Seyed Emami is shown hiking in a photo provided by his family. (AFP/Getty Images )

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He was educated in the United States in the 1970s  earning a masters degree at the University of Ohio, his son wrote  and in recent years taught religion and sociology at Tehrans Imam Sadegh University.

Several other people with ties to the foundation were also arrested, according to reports in Iranian media. Among them were Hooman Jokar, vice chairman of the board and head of the cheetah desk at Irans Department of the Environment, and Morad Tahbaz, an Iranian American businessman and board member.

The head of Tehrans justice department, Gholamhossain Esmaeeli, said the activists were jailed for transferring intelligence to foreigners, and it is likely that more activists will be arrested, according to the semi-official Fars news agency.

The foundations roster of leaders with ties to Western countries has made it a target of hardliners in Irans judiciary and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, the powerful paramilitary organization that has spearheaded the arrests of several other Iranian dual nationals on vague spying charges.

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The most recent arrests also suggested that environmental issues  a spark for the recent protests  were becoming increasingly politically sensitive in Iran.

Critics say the Revolutionary Guard and affiliated companies have exacerbated the impact of a prolonged drought by mismanaging water resources and building excessive dams.

People who work on these issues and provide policy direction may be getting entrenched political and economic interests angry, Ghaemi said. But we dont know whether these prisoners were detained because of their work, because we know nothing of the charges against them.

The foundation worked with the government of President Hassan Rouhani, a relative moderate whom hardliners oppose.

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Last November, Tasnim news agency, which is close to the hardliners, reported that the foundation had provided funds from Western countries to the governments environment department under its former head, Masoumeh Ebtekar, one of Rouhanis vice presidents.

On Sunday, when reporters stopped Ebtekar during a rally in Tehran marking the 39th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and asked her about the arrests, she said: I prefer not to comment, but I am seriously worried.

Also arrested and later released was Kaveh Madani, deputy head of the environment department. On Monday, he was shown in a photograph posted on the departments official Twitter feed during a meeting with the German ambassador to Tehran.

Head of Iran's Department of Environment, Isa Kalantari, and Deputy Head of Education and Research, @KavehMadani meet the German ambassador in Iran at DOE, Tehran. pic.twitter.com/myzkQ8QLnI  Dept. of Environment (@OfficialDOEIran) February 12, 2018

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Madani  an expert on water management who left a position as lecturer in Imperial College in London to join the government agency last September  tweeted an oblique reference to his arrest on Monday, saying he was hopeful of a return to tranquility and peace of mind of environmental activists and hopeful of clarifications of all the facts.

Hours later, adding to the mystery surrounding the detentions, Madanis verified Twitter account was suspended by the social media platform for unspecified reasons.

Special correspondent Mostaghim reported from Tehran and Los Angeles Times staff writer Bengali from Mumbai, India.

shashank.bengali@latimes.com

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Shashank Bengali covers Iran for The Times. Follow him on Twitter at @SBengali.

ALSO:

The worlds fastest animal is in a race for survival in Iran

A long-simmering factor in Iran protests: Climate change

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In apparent first, Iran and Israel engage each other militarilyThe National Bank of Ukraine after the forensic audit of PrivatBank by Kroll company has requested information about financial transactions of over 6,000 individuals, and around 50 of whom are shareholders and managers of various levels of the 1+1 media holding belonged to former owner of PrivatBank, Deputy NBU Governor Kateryna Rozhkova has said.

"During the investigation a series of smaller operations that could have signs of illegal operations like money laundering, tax evasion and others was revealed. The National Bank is obliged to verify these operations and either to refute these signs or confirm them," she said at a briefing in Kyiv on Friday, February 9.

Rozhkova said that the regulator has no authority to disclose data on these individuals.

Commenting on the publication of the document on the Internet with a request for financial transactions of about 50 individuals associated with "1+1", the deputy head of the National Bank said that an investigation would be scheduled.

"We will look for those who leaked the information," she said, adding that the document in this publication is not registered, and looks like a draft.

The Deputy Head of the National Bank gave two examples of suspicious operations. In the first case an individual, using the credit card of PrivatBank, paid UAH 622 million for playing in a casino outside of Ukraine, which, according to Rozhkova, is normal in itself.

"The repayment of the loan was carried out by private persons in the territory of Ukraine. They were very different individuals, absolutely not related to the cardholder: not relatives and not workers. The analysis of the financial transactions of these individuals showed that they had no official sources to provide this financial assistance to repay the loan. This is a classic example of a violation of the law," the representative of the regulator said.

She took as a second example the transfer of about $40 million to a state-owned energy company through a series of transactions to the accounts of companies opened in the Cyprus branch of PrivatBank, beneficiaries of which were individuals "who appear on our list." According to her, then the funds were actually used for personal needs of these individuals.

Rozhkova said that among other suspicious transactions that require verification is the registering of capital or subordinated debt of subsidiaries of PrivatBank in other jurisdictions.The failure of the Russian Federation to fulfill its obligations and the continuation of aggression in response to the statement of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov were called "scrapping" of the Minsk agreements by the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine.

"Scrapping the Minsk agreements is non-fulfillment by Russia, by their side, of their obligations, and the ongoing aggression," a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine, Mariana Betsa, wrote on Twitter.

Earlier on Sunday Sergei Lavrov said that the Ukrainian authorities were making a "colossal mistake" by passing a law on Donbas reintegration.

"I believe that the one who will take the first step toward scrapping the Minsk agreements will make a colossal mistake. In fact, the Kyiv authorities are only one step away from this mistake, that's if they finally accept the law on reintegration, which they now passed in the second reading. Well see," said Lavrov in the air of Russia-1 TV channel.A bomb threat led to the sudden closure of Pleasant Valley High School Monday morning, Pennsylvania State Police said.

"Early this morning the school district received information specific to the high school that required its closing as a precautionary measure," the district said on its website. "There is no threat to any other school and all schools are safe for students and staff."

State police at the Fern Ridge barracks said the threat was for the high school only.

Superintendent Dave Piperato said the threat was discovered by a building administrator. State police said they were contacted at 6 a.m. Monday.

Though it was "not perceived to be credible, it was specific in nature and prompted the administration to close the high school and immediately contact the Pennsylvania State Police," Piperato tweeted.

State police used four K-9 units to sweep the high school, and it was deemed safe at 12:30 p.m., the superintendent said. The school will remain under lockdown until tomorrow morning, when the school will open on time.

Students already on school buses were taken to the middle school, which is nearby and not closed, the district said.

Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.Education & Career Dhahi Khalfan Intellectual Property Center introduces IP Expert Diploma



12.02.2018 07:38:08 - Diploma course will be conducted under the supervision of academics & experts accredited by the World Intellectual Property Organization



(live-PR.com) - United Arab Emirates, 11 February 2018- Dhahi Khalfan Intellectual Property Center, which is under the umbrella of Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA), has announced that it is launching the Intellectual Property Expert Diploma, a professional course which aims to develop a group of experts accredited in the fields of patents, registered trademarks, copyrights and intellectual property rights in cooperation with - United Arab Emirates, 11 February 2018- Dhahi Khalfan Intellectual Property Center, which is under the umbrella of Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA), has announced that it is launching the Intellectual Property Expert Diploma, a professional course which aims to develop a group of experts accredited in the fields of patents, registered trademarks, copyrights and intellectual property rights in cooperation with the Dubai Courts. The Diploma of the Intellectual Property Expert is divided into four sections, including the IP System Entry and International Conventions; Diploma of an Expert in Patents and Trade Secrets; Diploma of an Authorized Expert in Literary Property; and Diploma of an Expert in Trademarks and Illegal Competition. The diploma will take place on 4 March 2018 at the Emirates Towers Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.



Applicants who are interested in obtaining the Diploma of an Accredited Patent Expert should complete the IP System Entry and International Conventions course, in addition to the Special Course on Patents and Trade Secrets. Those wishing to obtain the Diploma of an Expert in Trademarks and Illegal Competition must complete the IP Entry Course and the International Conventions, along with the Special course on Trademarks and Illegal Competition, while those looking to get a Diploma of an Authorized Expert in Literary Property should complete the IP Entry Course and International Conventions, as well as the Special course of Literary Property. Applicants of the diploma of Intellectual Property Rights Expert should complete the IP System Entry and International Conventions course in addition to the courses related to Patent and Trade Secrets, Trademarks and Illegal Competition and Literary Property. The diploma allows the applicant to register in the Dubai Courts Expert Panel after completing the registration requirements, in addition to obtaining the diploma of an accredited expert.



H.E. Dr. Major-General Abdul Qudoos Abdul Razzaq Al Obaidly, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Quality and Excellence in Dubai Police and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the EIPA, said that The Diploma of the Intellectual Property Expert plays a key role in enhancing proficiencies in implementing IP laws. He added that as a first-of-its-kind program in the region, it is a step closer to achieving the UAEs drive to climb its rank in the WJP Rule of Law Index, where it landed 43rd in 2017, jumping 10 positions higher from 53rd in 2016, according to the World Bank report.



Al Obaidly noted: The program is part of our efforts aimed at providing high-quality training to a new generation of qualified professionals to protect IP rights as a pressing need to drive innovation which is a national priority in the UAE, inspired by the vision of our leaders in fostering innovation as one of the pillars of the future. We believe the diploma course will pave the way for the development of our human capital in line with international best practices as part of our successful strategic partnership with Dubai Courts. Our aim is to equip trainees with knowledge and expertise to protect the creative intellectual outputs, which is essential in achieving the UAE Vision 2021. All these initiatives are in line with the nations goal to build a competitive knowledge-based economy led by knowledgeable and innovative Emiratis.



Jawad Al Redha, Member of the Board of Directors of EIPA and the Executive Director of Dhahi Khalfan Intellectual Property Center, said: As part of our continuous efforts to develop national human capital in the field of intellectual property and enhance human capabilities and competencies in this field, we are glad to establish a Diploma of IP Expert in the fields of patents, registered trademarks, copyrights and intellectual property rights areas.



He added that this diploma is part of the efforts to increase access to specialized, high-quality training and in-depth knowledge of IP to build and strengthen national IP capacities and support national efforts to strengthen the UAE's position on the world's intellectual property map. The development of experts and specialists in Intellectual Property is one of the important steps towards achieving the UAE Vision 2021 aimed at building a knowledge-based economy.



The Diploma of the Intellectual Property Expert will be conducted under the supervision of a group of academics and experts accredited by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), who will also be present in this diploma, which requires the registration of the applicant to obtain a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Registration forms for the same must be submitted before 22 February 2018.

the Dubai Courts. The Diploma of the Intellectual Property Expert is divided into four sections, including the IP System Entry and International Conventions; Diploma of an Expert in Patents and Trade Secrets; Diploma of an Authorized Expert in Literary Property; and Diploma of an Expert in Trademarks and Illegal Competition. The diploma will take place on 4 March 2018 at the Emirates Towers Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.Applicants who are interested in obtaining the Diploma of an Accredited Patent Expert should complete the IP System Entry and International Conventions course, in addition to the Special Course on Patents and Trade Secrets. Those wishing to obtain the Diploma of an Expert in Trademarks and Illegal Competition must complete the IP Entry Course and the International Conventions, along with the Special course on Trademarks and Illegal Competition, while those looking to get a Diploma of an Authorized Expert in Literary Property should complete the IP Entry Course and International Conventions, as well as the Special course of Literary Property. Applicants of the diploma of Intellectual Property Rights Expert should complete the IP System Entry and International Conventions course in addition to the courses related to Patent and Trade Secrets, Trademarks and Illegal Competition and Literary Property. The diploma allows the applicant to register in the Dubai Courts Expert Panel after completing the registration requirements, in addition to obtaining the diploma of an accredited expert.H.E. Dr. Major-General Abdul Qudoos Abdul Razzaq Al Obaidly, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Quality and Excellence in Dubai Police and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the EIPA, said that The Diploma of the Intellectual Property Expert plays a key role in enhancing proficiencies in implementing IP laws. He added that as a first-of-its-kind program in the region, it is a step closer to achieving the UAEs drive to climb its rank in the WJP Rule of Law Index, where it landed 43rd in 2017, jumping 10 positions higher from 53rd in 2016, according to the World Bank report.Al Obaidly noted: The program is part of our efforts aimed at providing high-quality training to a new generation of qualified professionals to protect IP rights as a pressing need to drive innovation which is a national priority in the UAE, inspired by the vision of our leaders in fostering innovation as one of the pillars of the future. We believe the diploma course will pave the way for the development of our human capital in line with international best practices as part of our successful strategic partnership with Dubai Courts. Our aim is to equip trainees with knowledge and expertise to protect the creative intellectual outputs, which is essential in achieving the UAE Vision 2021. All these initiatives are in line with the nations goal to build a competitive knowledge-based economy led by knowledgeable and innovative Emiratis.Jawad Al Redha, Member of the Board of Directors of EIPA and the Executive Director of Dhahi Khalfan Intellectual Property Center, said: As part of our continuous efforts to develop national human capital in the field of intellectual property and enhance human capabilities and competencies in this field, we are glad to establish a Diploma of IP Expert in the fields of patents, registered trademarks, copyrights and intellectual property rights areas.He added that this diploma is part of the efforts to increase access to specialized, high-quality training and in-depth knowledge of IP to build and strengthen national IP capacities and support national efforts to strengthen the UAE's position on the world's intellectual property map. The development of experts and specialists in Intellectual Property is one of the important steps towards achieving the UAE Vision 2021 aimed at building a knowledge-based economy.The Diploma of the Intellectual Property Expert will be conducted under the supervision of a group of academics and experts accredited by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), who will also be present in this diploma, which requires the registration of the applicant to obtain a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Registration forms for the same must be submitted before 22 February 2018. Press Information:

Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA)



UAE





Contact Person:

CommuniGate



Phone: 00971 4 4546093

eMail: eMail



Web: http://www.communigateme.com





12.02.2018 07:38:08 -

Disclaimer: If you have any questions regarding information in this article please contact the author. Please do not contact Live-PR.com. We are not able to assist you. Live-PR.com disclaims content contained in this article. Live-PR.com is not authorized to give any information about content and not responsible for content posted by third party.Business Gustaf Nordback appointed CEO of Financial Times | IE Business School Corporate Learning Alliance

Gustaf Nordback.

12.02.2018 16:55:18 - Financial Times | IE Business School Corporate Learning Alliance, a leading global provider of customised corporate learning programmes for large corporations, has appointed Gustaf Nordback as its Chief Executive Officer.



(live-PR.com) - Financial Times | IE Business School Corporate Learning Alliance, a leading global provider of customised corporate learning programmes for large corporations, has appointed Gustaf Nordback as its Chief Executive Officer.



Nordback has a successful track record in the learning sector. He joins FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance from DigiExam, a digital assessment platform used to create, administer and mark exams. - Financial Times | IE Business School Corporate Learning Alliance, a leading global provider of customised corporate learning programmes for large corporations, has appointed Gustaf Nordback as its Chief Executive Officer.Nordback has a successful track record in the learning sector. He joins FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance from DigiExam, a digital assessment platform used to create, administer and mark exams. He helped grow this business into a company serving over 2800 organisations across more than 80 countries.



He completed his Masters at Stockholm School of Economics, when he moved to London as an analyst at Deutsche Bank, followed by Citigroup, and then joined private equity fund GI Partners. An MBA at INSEAD launched his career at Rosetta Stone, the language technology software company. As MD for Europe he increased European revenues significantly, and followed this role as its MD for EMEA and Brazil.



Tas Viglatzis, Chairman of Corporate Learning Alliance, says: Gustaf Nordback brings very valuable expertise and talent to our organisation at an important point, as we deliver our strategy to reinvent corporate learning over the coming years. I look forward to working closely with Gustaf to build on and enhance Corporate Learning Alliances successes and growth momentum.



Nordback will join FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance on 8 May 2018. He takes over the role from former CEO, VanDyck Silveira.



About Financial Times | IE Business School Corporate Learning Alliance

FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance was formed in 2015 in response to growing calls for more flexible, practical, relevant and timely corporate learning. A joint venture of the Financial Times and IE Business School, it brings world-renowned business information and journalism, leading academic faculty and a global network of educators to co-create customised corporate learning and leadership development programmes in multiple languages, to almost any sector, anywhere in the world. Through expert learning frameworks, innovation and technology, it focuses on achieving measurable learning outcomes.



Earlier this year, the FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance made five predictions for corporate learning 2018. They are:

1. The return of the middle manager. While much focus has been placed on leadership skills and the voice from the top, the under-appreciated and often-maligned middle manager will come back in vogue and be recognised for an increasingly rare yet innate ability: managing other people.



2. The death of authenticity. It is often said that, if you can fake authenticity, youve got it made. In 2018, many more managers will stop trying to be themselves. This will be a relief for staff who either did not like their line managers true nature or never believed the act in the first place. It will be replaced, hopefully, by a return to management basics  clear communication, constructive feedback and conflict resolution.



3. Individual learning for career development. Experience-based, flexible, individualised learning and the means to transfer knowledge easily into professional life  will become stronger features of learning and development programmes. Concepts of agility, disruption, digitalisation  while perhaps wearing thin through over-use  will continue to be part of the management lexicon and rationales for executive learning.



4. Gen Z hype. In 2018, so-called Generation Z, born around the millennium, will start to enter the workplace. Conferences, research papers and thought leadership articles will be devoted to this new phenomenon. Despite the hype, they will say very little different from what was once said about Millennials, Generation X and Baby Boomers when they were young.



5. Embracing machine learning. Despite a certain scepticism about the motives behind concepts like artificial intelligence (AI), greater acceptance of machine learning and a closer understanding of AI will help leaders manage their companies better in 2018. The AI holy grail is strategic foresight: stronger insights into customer needs, better market-facing propositions, improved operations, improved management skills  all helping a company to get ahead of its competitors.



Press enquiries: further information from:

David Wells, Head of Communications, FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance

Direct +44 (0)20 7775 6241; Mobile +44 (0)7921 582419

david.wells@ftiecla.com



Bob Little, Bob Little Press & PR

Direct +44 (0)1727 860405; Mobile +44 (0)7850 508209

bob.little@boblittlepr.com

He helped grow this business into a company serving over 2800 organisations across more than 80 countries.He completed his Masters at Stockholm School of Economics, when he moved to London as an analyst at Deutsche Bank, followed by Citigroup, and then joined private equity fund GI Partners. An MBA at INSEAD launched his career at Rosetta Stone, the language technology software company. As MD for Europe he increased European revenues significantly, and followed this role as its MD for EMEA and Brazil.Tas Viglatzis, Chairman of Corporate Learning Alliance, says: Gustaf Nordback brings very valuable expertise and talent to our organisation at an important point, as we deliver our strategy to reinvent corporate learning over the coming years. I look forward to working closely with Gustaf to build on and enhance Corporate Learning Alliances successes and growth momentum.Nordback will join FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance on 8 May 2018. He takes over the role from former CEO, VanDyck Silveira.About Financial Times | IE Business School Corporate Learning AllianceFT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance was formed in 2015 in response to growing calls for more flexible, practical, relevant and timely corporate learning. A joint venture of the Financial Times and IE Business School, it brings world-renowned business information and journalism, leading academic faculty and a global network of educators to co-create customised corporate learning and leadership development programmes in multiple languages, to almost any sector, anywhere in the world. Through expert learning frameworks, innovation and technology, it focuses on achieving measurable learning outcomes. www.ftiecla.com Earlier this year, the FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance made five predictions for corporate learning 2018. They are:1. The return of the middle manager. While much focus has been placed on leadership skills and the voice from the top, the under-appreciated and often-maligned middle manager will come back in vogue and be recognised for an increasingly rare yet innate ability: managing other people.2. The death of authenticity. It is often said that, if you can fake authenticity, youve got it made. In 2018, many more managers will stop trying to be themselves. This will be a relief for staff who either did not like their line managers true nature or never believed the act in the first place. It will be replaced, hopefully, by a return to management basics  clear communication, constructive feedback and conflict resolution.3. Individual learning for career development. Experience-based, flexible, individualised learning and the means to transfer knowledge easily into professional life  will become stronger features of learning and development programmes. Concepts of agility, disruption, digitalisation  while perhaps wearing thin through over-use  will continue to be part of the management lexicon and rationales for executive learning.4. Gen Z hype. In 2018, so-called Generation Z, born around the millennium, will start to enter the workplace. Conferences, research papers and thought leadership articles will be devoted to this new phenomenon. Despite the hype, they will say very little different from what was once said about Millennials, Generation X and Baby Boomers when they were young.5. Embracing machine learning. Despite a certain scepticism about the motives behind concepts like artificial intelligence (AI), greater acceptance of machine learning and a closer understanding of AI will help leaders manage their companies better in 2018. The AI holy grail is strategic foresight: stronger insights into customer needs, better market-facing propositions, improved operations, improved management skills  all helping a company to get ahead of its competitors.Press enquiries: further information from:David Wells, Head of Communications, FT | IE Corporate Learning AllianceDirect +44 (0)20 7775 6241; Mobile +44 (0)7921 582419Bob Little, Bob Little Press & PRDirect +44 (0)1727 860405; Mobile +44 (0)7850 508209 Contact information:

FT | IE Corporate Learning Alliance



One Southwark Bridge, London SE1 9HL, UK



Contact Person:

David Wells

Head of Communications

Phone: +44 (0)20 7873 4248

eMail: eMail



Web: http://www.ftiecla.com/

Author:

Bob Little

e-mail

Web: http://www.boblittlepr.com

Phone: 00 44 (0) 1727 860405 12.02.2018 16:55:18 -

Disclaimer: If you have any questions regarding information in this article please contact the author. Please do not contact Live-PR.com. We are not able to assist you. Live-PR.com disclaims content contained in this article. Live-PR.com is not authorized to give any information about content and not responsible for content posted by third party.Stock Market News

Drilling begins and Conroy Gold's Clay Lake-Clontibret target 12-02-2018 09:44



Stock News headlines are gathered from financial news sources around the web. Views and opinions on each item are from their respective authors and website. They are not opinions of LiveCharts.co.ukStock Market News

Europe midday: Stocks holding onto gains, but traders cautious 12-02-2018 12:15



Stock News headlines are gathered from financial news sources around the web. Views and opinions on each item are from their respective authors and website. They are not opinions of LiveCharts.co.ukStock Market News

Heathrow reports 15th consecutive record month for passengers 12-02-2018 09:58



Stock News headlines are gathered from financial news sources around the web. Views and opinions on each item are from their respective authors and website. They are not opinions of LiveCharts.co.ukStock Market News

Monday newspaper round-up: Aldi, Warren Evans, Tesco, Lloyds 12-02-2018 07:13



Stock News headlines are gathered from financial news sources around the web. Views and opinions on each item are from their respective authors and website. They are not opinions of LiveCharts.co.ukStock Market News

Reabold Resources pleased with progress at Corallian investment 12-02-2018 12:47



Stock News headlines are gathered from financial news sources around the web. Views and opinions on each item are from their respective authors and website. They are not opinions of LiveCharts.co.ukPechersky District Court of Kyiv has chosen a measure of restraint in the form of two-month detention for former Ukrainian MP Oleksandr Shepelev, who is suspected of high treason, according to the 112 Ukraine television channel.

Such a decision was made at a court session early on Saturday, February 10.

The decision may be appealed at Kyiv Court of Appeal within five days.

Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine on high treason, under which Shepelev is charged, does not provide for the possibility of posting bail.

Shepelev's lawyers said they would file an appeal.

Several criminal proceedings were opened against Shepelev in various district courts of Kyiv, including the case on intentional murder, prosecutor Ruslan Kravchenko said.

As reported, former People's Deputy of Ukraine (fifth and sixth convocations) Shepelev was detained in March 2015 by Russian law enforcement officers after he fled the ambulance hospital in Kyiv in the summer of 2014 together with a security guard. The ex-MP was declared internationally wanted by law enforcement agencies of Ukraine. The wanted ex-deputy was accused in Ukraine of stealing Rodovid Bank's money and ordering several murders, in particular, of banker Serhiy Kyrychenko in 2003 and police colonel Roman Yerokhin in 2006, and an attempted assassination of banker Serhiy Diadechko in 2012.- FSB public relations center

MOSCOW. Feb 12 (Interfax) - The Russian Federal Security Service has reported the detention in Simferopol of a citizen of Ukraine who collected and provided to the Ukrainian special services information on the activities of Russian Guard and Federal Security Service units.

"Ukrainian citizen Kostiantyn Davydenko was detained in Simferopol by Federal Security Service officials on February 11. He purposefully collected and provided to the Ukrainian special services information on the activities of units of the Federal Security Service and the Russian National Guard and information on Russian Federal Security Service, which constitutes a state secret," the Federal Security Service public relations center told Interfax on Monday.

"A data leak abroad could have hurt the security of the state," the Federal Security Service public relations center said.Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Ukraine Hugues Mingarelli believes the practice of braking by the Verkhovna Rada legislative initiatives, important for the implementation of the Association Agreement, should be stopped.

"There can be no justification for delaying the implementation of the Agreement: it must be carried out quickly and fully, and the responsibility lies with the Ukrainian authorities, especially with Rada members elected to represent the Ukrainian people and make decisions on its behalf ... Unfortunately, today many important bills are stuck in the Verkhovna Rada without any movement, which should be stopped," the head of the EU Delegation said on the Kyiv-based Yevropeyska Pravda's (European Truth) page on Monday.

Mingarelli recalled the need for a constructive and effective dialogue of the Ukrainian parliament with other key players, in particular the government and the president.

"The registration of bills that contradict or even harm the Association Agreement/FTA, such as the "Buy Ukrainian, Pay to Ukrainians!" bill, may lead to the loss of Ukraine's international reputation and breach of its obligations in relations with the EU unless they are revised," the diplomat said.

Mingarelli noted that the legislative tasks and obligations of Ukraine within the framework of the Association Agreement with the EU deserve more focused work on legislative initiatives.

"The EU's partnership with Ukraine is not a relationship between a donor and a recipient, but relations that rely on the equivalent contribution and aspiration of both sides. The European Union needs to see reforms in order to support them," the diplomat said.

Mingarelli added that the European Union also continues paying special attention to anti-corruption legislation and ensuring the independence, operational ability and effectiveness of anti-corruption institutions in Ukraine.PGO says court decision to try Yanukovych in absentia in Maidan without infractions

Ukraine's Prosecutor General's Office has said permission given by the court to conduct a special pretrial investigation of suspicions that disgraced ex-President Viktor Yanukovych committed crimes leading to the deaths of anti-government protesters in Kyiv from February 18 to February 20, 2014 was correct and made without any legal violations.

PGO representative Denys Ivanov during a briefing in Kyiv on Monday said Yanukovych limited the authority of his defense attorneys from the Aver Lex law firm.

According to Ivanov, defense lawyers failed to appear at hearings 15 times.

"From December 11, 2017 through February 7, 2018 Yanukovych's lawyers missed 15 court hearings," he said, adding that information communicated by Yanukovych's defense lawyers is inaccurate. According to Ivanov, hearings on February 7, 2018 were attended by Yanukoyvh's state appointed lawyer.

As earlier reported, on February 7, 2018, PGO spokeswoman Larysa Sarhan said Kyiv's Pechersky District Court had given permission for special an in absentia investigation of Yanukovych, ex-SBU State Security Service chief Oleksandr Yakymenko and ex-First Deputy SBU chief Volodymyr Totsky in the criminal investigation into the deaths of anti-government protesters on Independence Square in Kyiv that took place from February 18 to February 20, 2014.

Sarhan said three additional ex-officials  ex-Interior Minister Vitaliy Zakharchenko, former Deputy Interior Minister Viktor Ratushniak and former deputy Interior Ministry chief Petro Fedchuk (in charge of the police and public safety in Kyiv) would also be investigated.President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko notes that Russia, at the request of its president, Vladimir Putin, can at any time try to aggravate the situation in the Ukrainian state, and in the regions of Donbas, that are controlled by Moscow, a significant Russian military contingent is concentrated there.

"There are so many Putin's troops in Ukraine, and he can at any moment exacerbate the situation if he wants. I once told the chancellor [German Chancellor Angela] Merkel: You can imagine that there are more tanks in the east of Ukraine than there are in the Bundeswehr (the unified armed forces of Germany). Some 600 tanks are present in this small area," Poroshenko said in an interview with the German edition of Bild, the Ukrainian presidential administration said on Monday.

Speaking about the Minsk agreements, the Ukrainian president said that this was the most difficult moment when in February 2015 about 25 Ukrainian soldiers were killed by bullets of the regular Russian army daily.

"In Minsk we spent 19 hours without sleep and food. And then an agreement was reached, which would not have happened without the support of the Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel," he recalled and expressed his gratitude to the German Federal Chancellor.

At the same time, Poroshenko added: "However, as the whole world knows: the president of the Russian Federation does not keep his promises. Always, whenever he wants, he promotes another escalation."

According to the president of Ukraine, the statement said, "after the conclusion of Minsk agreements, 824 people were killed in the war."The Ukrainian state-owned aircraft manufacturer Antonov stands ready to join an investigation into the causes of the crash of a Russian An-148 passenger aircraft in Moscow region on February 11 if receives an official invitation from the Russian aviation authorities, Antonov's press service told Interfax on Monday.

"Antonov Company, as the designer of the An-148, stands ready to dispatch its specialists to join the investigation into this air incident as part of the work of an Interstate Aviation Commission work, on condition that it receives a relevant official address from the Russian aviation authorities. At the present time, Antonov Company has not received such an address," it said.

Antonov Company has ceased industrial cooperation with Russia under the An-148 program since 2015, it said.

At the present time, 34 An-148 aircraft are operated on the global market, including 31 in Russia, it said.

The Interstate Aviation Committee (IAC) had said earlier on Monday that Ukraine, as the country where the An-148 was designed, had been notified about the An-148 crash.Leader of the Movement of New Forces party, ex-president of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili was returned to Poland, the country of his previous stay on Monday. During his detention in Kyiv Ukrainian border guards had to use force, spokesman for the State Border Service of Ukraine Oleh Slobodian has said.

"Regarding the situation with Saakashvili. Today, on February 12, servicemen of the State Border Guard Service together with representatives of the Migration Service and the National Police handed to Saakashvili the relevant authority's resolution on his return to the country of his previous stay. However, during the procedure, law enforcers were attacked by unknown persons from Mikheil Saakashvili's entourage and the border guards were forced to defend themselves," he wrote on Facebook on Monday evening.

Slobodian recalled the situation surrounding Saakashvili's arrival in September 2017 and the subsequent decisions. "On September 22, 2017, the Lviv region's Mostyska Court found Saakashvili guilty of crossing the Ukrainian border illegally. On January 3, 2018, Kyiv's District Administrative Court dismissed Saakashvili's lawsuit against the State Migration Service to recognize him as a refugee. On February 6, the Kyiv's District Administrative Court dismissed Saakashvili's appeal against the Federal Migration Service's decision to refuse issuing documents to recognize him as a refugee or a person in need of additional protection," he said.

Therefore, in accordance with the aforementioned court rulings, "this person stayed in Ukraine illegally, this is why in compliance with all legal formalities he was returned to the country of his arrival, which violated the domestic legislation," Slobodian said.

Meanwhile Saakashvili's lawyer Ruslan Chornolutsky has filed a report in Kyiv's Pechersky district police department, the Movement of New Forces said on its official Facebook account.

"Mikheil Saakashvili's lawyer Ruslan Chornolutsky has just reported the politician's kidnapping. The report was filed following a telephone call to the Pechersky district police department. The police obtained explanations of employees of the restaurant and those, who were with Mikheil at the moment of his kidnapping," it said.

Former Ukrainian deputy prosecutor general, Saakashvili's associate David Sakvarelidze, in turn, said that supporters of the Movement of New Forces were planning to gather near the building of the Ukrainian presidential administration at 6:30 p.m. on Monday. "We are gathering near the PA [presidential administration] at 6:30 p.m. On Bankova [Street]!" he said on his Facebook account.

As reported, in July, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko signed a decree revoking Saakashvili's Ukrainian citizenship, while the former Georgian president was in the United States.

On September 10, Saakashvili has crossed the Polish-Ukrainian border backed by his supporters, who have de facto forced their way through the border.

On September 22, Mostyska District Court in Lviv region found Saakashvili guilty of illegally crossing Ukraine's state border on September 10.

On January 3, 2018, Kyiv's District Administrative Court dismissed Saakashvili's lawsuit to deem illegal the decision of the Ukrainian Federal Migration Service's Kyiv regional branch to deny him the status of a refugee or a person in need of additional protection after his Ukrainian citizenship had been revoked.

Ukrainian Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko earlier voiced the options of possible measures against Saakashvili in an interview the TSN television channel, they were extradition at the request of the Georgian Prosecutor General's Office, voluntarily return to any country of his choice, for instance, the Netherlands, where his country lives, as well as "voluntarily or forcible deportation to a country of his choice or the country, from which he had illegally crossed the Ukrainian border, namely Poland."North America awards

March is going to be a busy month for Managing IP  we are holding three awards dinners in London, New York and Hong Kong to recognise the best intellectual property law firms and individuals around the world.

Ahead of these dinners, we have now published all of the awards shortlists. You can view them below. The winners will be chosen from these shortlists.

Managing IP EMEA Awards 2018 shortlists

Managing IP Americas Awards 2018 shortlists

Managing IP Asia-Pacific Awards 2018 shortlists

The dates and contacts for this years awards dinners are:

 Managing IP EMEA Awards, March 8, The Savoy, London

To reserve a table, please contact Nick Heath at nheath@managingip.com or +44 (0) 20 7779 8692.

 Managing IP Americas Awards, March 15, Essex House, New York

To reserve a table, please contact Kevin Dansky at kevin.dansky@euromoneyny.com or (+1) 212 224 3673.

 Managing IP Asia-Pacific Awards, March 21, JW Marriott, Hong Kong

To reserve a table, please contact Matt Siu at matthew.siu@euromoneyasia.com or +852 2842 6937

Best of luck to all firms nominated!

Following feedback from guests, this year we have introduced a new ceremony and changed the coverage of some existing events.

In recent years, weve held a global (excluding North America) awards ceremony in London and a North America ceremony in Washington DC. This year, we are expanding the Americas ceremony to including South America and Central America, and moving the newly-named Managing IP Americas Awards to New York City. The London ceremony, Managing IP EMEA Awards, will now purely focus on Europe, Middle East and Africa. Lastly, we are launching the Managing IP Asia-Pacific Awards in Hong Kong  a new event for us. All three ceremonies will feature more awards categories, including in-house awards.

The research methodology for the awards remains unchanged, and is listed below. If you have any questions about the research please contact our research team at research@managingip.com

Awards research process

The shortlists for the Managing IP Awards are based on information obtained during the research for the 2018 edition of IP STARS. In the IP STARS surveys for 2018, we asked firms to self-nominate as well as nominate their competitors for a number of awards. We review all available information, including all survey submissions and interview notes, and conduct independent research before producing the shortlists and picking the winners.

The research for IP STARS is rigorous and impartial. The Managing IP awards are not influenced by any commercial relationship with Managing IP or rankings in IP STARS. Any firm, regardless of ranking, can win any of our awards. A firm can also be shortlisted even if it did not make a firm survey submission, but in such case we may require further information from the firm. The 2018 awards will be based on research information available between September 2017 and January 2018. Where appropriate, information after this period may be considered.

Read more about IP STARS research methodology at https://www.ipstars.com/general/about

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Share this articleAs a result of shelling by illegal armed groups, a Ukrainian serviceman was killed on Monday, another one was wounded, the press center of the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) headquarters reported.

"As a whole, from the beginning of the day, eight shellings of the ATO defense fortifications by Russian-occupation units were recorded. Unfortunately, one Ukrainian military man was killed as a result of the enemy fire, another defender was injured," reads the report as of 18:00 Monday.Black Lives Matter protests have broken out across all 50 states in the USA following the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The comrades of Socialist Revolution, the US section of the International Marxist Tendency, have been intervening in many of these protests, fighting on the frontlines alongside workers and youth of all races against the oppressive capitalist system and its murderous state. Only socialist revolution can end racism for good! We will continue to publish reports of our comrades activities around this movement in the coming days.We republish a pamphlet (first released in 1987, during the twilight of the Soviet regime), which serves as an invaluable introduction to the events from the October Revolution to the rise of Stalinism in Russia  from which innumerable lessons can be drawn for the class struggle today. It was written by George Collins, then a member of the South African section of the Committee for a Workers International.

The October Revolution

Petrograd, capital of Russia, on the night of October 25, 1917. With the First World War raging on the battlefields of Europe, the Russian Revolution has reached its deciding moment. Armed detachments of workers and soldiers, organized by the Bolshevik Party, have taken control in the city. The pro-capitalist Provisional Government, discredited and isolated, has ceased to exist.

In the Smolny Institute, formerly a girls' school, the Congress of Soviets [elected councils] of Workers' and Soldiers' Deputies is in session.

Some delegates are professional politicians, left-wing intellectuals or radicalized army officers. But the vast majority are representatives of the ordinary working people: "great masses of shabby soldiers, grimy workmen, peasants  poor men, bent and scarred in the brute struggle for existence" (John Reed, Ten Days That Shook the World)  but filled with a revolutionary vision of the future, and a passionate determination to end their oppression once and for all.

Petrograd Soviet Assembly in 1917 / Image: fair use

Middle-class reformists denounce the Bolsheviks and demand that the congress break up! But delegate after delegate of the workers, peasants and soldiers drown them in the will and inspiration of the masses rising to their feet.

A soldier captures the mood: "I tell you, the Lettish soldiers have many times said: 'No more resolutions! No more talk! We want deeds  the power must be in our hands!'"

The hall, reports John Reed, "rocked with cheering..." (pages 102-103)

Amidst tumultuous applause, the Bolsheviks announce the transfer of state power to the soviets of the working people. A "Proclamation to workers, soldiers and peasants", put forward by the Bolsheviks, is overwhelmingly adopted. It sums up the immediate tasks:

"The Soviet authority will at once propose an immediate democratic peace to all nations, and an immediate truce on all fronts. It will assure the free transfer of landlord, crown and monastery lands to the Land Committees [elected by the peasants as instruments for seizing the landlords' estates], defend the soldiers' rights, enforcing a complete democratization of the Army, establish workers' control over production...take means to supply bread to the cities and articles of first necessity to the villages, and secure to all nationalities living in Russia a real right to independent existence.

"The Congress resolves: that all local power shall be transferred to the Soviets of Workers', Soldiers' and Peasants' Deputies, which must enforce revolutionary order." (Quoted by John Reed, pages 115-116)

Under a government of the revolutionary workers' party, supported by the mass of the poor peasants, the Russian people were freeing themselves from centuries of enslavement. In doing so they were demolishing the conditions for the existence of the capitalist system.

Lenin addressed the Congress the following evening. When eventually he could make himself heard above the thunderous applause, his first words were to confirm the task which the democratic revolution had placed on the agenda:

"We shall now proceed to construct the socialist order."

Throughout the long, hard years of struggle leading up to this night, Marxists had explained in theory what this task would involve. Now the Bolshevik leaders needed to explain it in practical terms.

Leon Trotsky, next to Lenin the most authoritative leader of the Russian Revolution, spoke later that same night:

"We rest all our hope on the possibility that our revolution will unleash the European revolution. If the insurrectionary peoples of Europe do not crush imperialism, then we will be crushed...Either the Russian Revolution will raise the whirlwind of struggle in the west, or the capitalists of all countries will crush our revolution." (Trotsky, History of the Russian Revolution, volume 3, page 315)

Red Guard of the Vulkan factory / Image: Wikimedia, fair use

The delegates, wrote an observer, greeted these words "with an immense crusading acclaim". Clearly, Lenin and Trotsky had expressed the thoughts and feelings of the vast majority of revolutionary fighters present in the Smolny that night.

Thus, in its very first hours, the new proletarian regime reasserted two fundamental propositions of Marxism  no longer as theoretical concepts but as the basis for state policy:

(a) democracy and a solution to the land question, in an underdeveloped country like Russia, is possible only under working-class rule, bringing with it the overthrow of capitalism and the transition to socialism.

(b) Socialist revolution cannot be confined within the borders of one country; it can only advance through the struggle to overthrow capitalism on a world scale.

The rest of this pamphlet will deal with the fate of the Russian Revolution over the following ten to twenty years, and the displacement of workers' democracy by a monstrous bureaucratic dictatorship. From studying these developments carefully, lessons can be learned that will be of vital importance to the struggle for the overthrow of capitalism today, and the construction of healthy regimes of workers' democracy in the next period.

The Counter-Revolution

Marx and Engels had thought it most likely that capitalism would be defeated first in the developed countries, where the working-class was most powerful, and the industrial basis existed for the transition to socialism.

Instead, in October 1917, the chain of world capitalism broke at its weakest link.

The Bolshevik government inherited a backward society in a state of disintegration, exhausted by three years of war and a series of crushing defeats by Germany.

The imperialists could not tolerate the challenge to their authority, and the threat to their interests in Russia, which the Bolsheviks presented. As a pro-capitalist historian openly admits: "They [the imperialist leaders such as Churchill and Foch] warned that Bolshevism was a dangerous threat to world society and should be crushed while it was still weak". (J.N. Westwood, Russia 1917 to 1964, page 38)

Within Russia the privileged and reactionary classes, as well as reformists in the labour movement, fought the revolution with every means at their disposal  boycotts, economic sabotage, even the threat of a general strike.

Workers' control over production, through a system of factory, regional and national committees, was proclaimed to provide some check on the capitalists' activities. But there was no way of peacefully regulating the eruption of class struggle unleashed by the revolution.

On the one hand, the capitalists refused to submit to workers' control. On the other hand, where the workers asserted their power, they did not stop at controlling the capitalists. They took over factories lock, stock and barrel, even before their government was able to provide them with back-up and resources.

These struggles in industry clearly confirmed the perspective explained by Trotsky in his theory of "permanent revolution" (see Section 11): once the working-class takes power, even in a backward country, it becomes impossible to confine their program to the limits of capitalism. The workers will inevitably be driven on to the expropriation of the capitalists and the program of socialist transformation.

Bolsheviks massacred by Czechoslovak legionaries / Image: Lt. William C Jones

A bourgeois historian describes the deepening paralysis of Russian society as the struggle between the classes intensified:

"In the spring of 1918 the Russian economy was approaching the point of complete collapse. Money lost all value, manufactured goods disappeared from the shops, the shops themselves closed down as the normal channels of trade ceased to function; speculation and corruption were rife." (Theodore H. von Laue, Why Lenin? Why Stalin? page 154)

Hunger worsened in the cities as food supplies came almost to a standstill: when manufactured goods could not be obtained even by barter, why should the peasants raise food for the urban market?

Revolutionary counter-measures were taken. The banks, in the face of their persistent sabotage, were occupied and nationalized in December 1917. The workers spontaneously took over more and more factories until the decree of June 1918 bringing every important branch of industry into state ownership.

Committees of the poor peasants, and armed detachments of workers, were organized to seize the grain supplies hoarded by the rich peasants (kulaks).

The irreconcilable struggle between the classes escalated into a full-scale trial of strength. Armed counter-revolution began to emerge, based on an alliance of the imperialist powers with the kulaks, the capitalists, and the remnants of the forces of Tsarism. The Russian civil war raged, with peaks and intervals, from May 1918 until the spring of 1921.

Civil war, like revolution, forces everyone to take sides  for or against the government. Right-wing socialists, ex-revolutionaries and reformists, their hatred of Marxism (as always) stronger than their fear of reaction, in large numbers joined the onslaught against the workers' state.

Red Guard detachment during the Civil War / Image: Wikimedia, fair use

In March 1918, British forces occupied the northern port of Murmansk, and in August they seized Archangel, cutting off Russia's outlets to the sea. In April, Japanese troops landed at Vladivostok in Eastern Siberia.

"Emboldened by the prospect of allied intervention," writes the leading bourgeois historian, E.H. Carr, "the right SRs [right wing of the so-called Socialist Revolutionary Party, based on the richer peasants] at their party conference in Moscow in May 1918 openly advocated a policy designed 'to overthrow the Bolshevik dictatorship and to establish a government based on universal suffrage and willing to accept Allied assistance in the war against Germany'"  i.e. a pro-imperialist government! (The Bolshevik Revolution 1917-1923, page 170)

The Mensheviks, split in all directions, were "uncompromising only on one point  their hostility to the [Bolshevik] regime". (Carr, page 170)

In Samara, the SRs set up an anti-Bolshevik government and started to raise an army. In August they captured Kazan. The Left SRs (based on the poor peasantry) were in coalition with the Bolsheviks until March 1918, when they left the government because they opposed the peace treaty signed with Germany, calling it a "betrayal".

Now they plotted against the government and tried to provoke a German attack which, they believed, would be met with "revolutionary war". Totally misreading the situation, they staged an insurrection in July, which rapidly collapsed.

Lenin speaking in 1919 / Image: Goldshtein G

The Western powers, as their war against Germany neared its end, concentrated their attention on Russia. More British, French and US troops were landed in Murmansk and Archangel. American, Japanese, British, French and Italian troops occupied Vladivostok and advanced westward as far as the Ural mountains. Sizeable French forces were deployed in the Black Sea.

At the same time, the imperialists financed and armed the counter-revolutionary (White) armies organized out of the most backward peasantry by ex-Tsarist officers.

Victor Serge, a Bolshevik at the time, vividly describes the desperate situation in October 1919:

"The Whites under Admiral Kolchak are masters of Siberia; they constitute the 'supreme government' of Ukraine under General Denikin who is preparing for a march on Moscow. In the North, thanks to the British battalions, they dominate a vaguely socialist government presided over by old Tchaikovsky, a veteran of the first struggles against Tsarism; and General Yudenich is preparing to take Petrograd, where the people are dying of hunger in the streets and dead horses are piled up in fromt of the Grand Opera." (From Lenin to Stalin, page 31)

Yet, a year later, Wrangel (Denikin's successor) had been crushed in the Crimea, and the military threat was effectively ended.

The Bolsheviks' victory over the combined forces of internal and external reaction, from a position of terrible weakness, most surely rank as one of the most brilliant military achievements of all time.

How was this victory won?

How the Bolsheviks Defeated the Counter-Revolution

The survival of the Russian workers' state was made possible, in the first place, by the support of the working-class internationally in the enormous movements following the October revolution.

Brilliantly confirming the Bolsheviks' perspective, Europe was plunged into a period of revolution. The road to victory opened up before the working-class in one country after another.

The imperialists, tied down by life-and-death struggles in their own countries, could not continue their attacks on Russia without provoking the workers even further, and driving their soldiers to mutiny.

A strike by Hungarian munitions workers in January 1918 spread like wildfire to Vienna, Berlin and throughout Germany, involving over two million workers. Their central demand, echoing the Russian workers' demand, was peace. In Finland an Independent Workers' Republic was proclaimed. After months of fighting it was crushed with the help of German troops.

Then, on 4 November 1918, mutiny broke out at the German naval base of Kiel, and ignited the German revolution. Within days every major city was in the hands of the workers' councils.

Images of the Civil War / Yanachka

The effect on the Russian working-class was electrifying. The Bolshevik Ilyin-Shenevsky, taking an evening off in a Petrograd theatre, gives a glimpse of its impact throughout the country:

"Before one of the acts was about to begin, a man in jacket and high boots came on to the stage and said: 'Comrades! We have just had news from Germany. There has been a revolution in Germany. Wilhelm [the emperor] has been overthrown. A Soviet of workers' deputies has been formed in Berlin and has sent us a telegram of greeting.'

"It is hard to convey what followed... The announcement was met with a kind of roar, and frenzied applause shook the theatre for several minutes..." (The Bolsheviks in Power, pages 127-128)

In Austria, mass strikes and army mutinies finally smashed the imperial Hasburg regime. The empire disintegrated, and in Hungary a revolutionary soviet government took power in March 1919.

France was swept by mass strikes and naval mutiny. British soldiers mutinied, and the Red Flag was hoisted over the Clyde in the Scottish industrial heartland. Ireland was in armed revolt against British rule. Strikes involving four million workers convulsed in the USA in 1919.

These events, hardly mentioned in official history books, demonstrated a law which every socialist needs to understand: a successful workers' revolution has an incalculable impact internationally, provoking capitalist reaction but, at the same time, inspiring the workers in other countries to come to its defence and follow its example.

The spirit of international solidarity was the Russian workers' most potent weapon. Not by moral appeals to democracy or the conscience of the capitalist class, but by linking themselves to the working-class struggle for power internationally, the Bolsheviks won immeasurable support from every corner of the globe, and opened a second front in the imperialists' rear.

Addressed in a comradely way, British and American troops in Russia began to mutiny. On the Black Sea, French sailors hoisted the Red Flag. The imperialists were compelled to withdraw their forces and abandon the Whites to their fate.

The early congresses of the Communist International (see Section 4 below) called on the workers' movement internationally to take action against any kind of support for the Whites in Russia. In July 1920, following the invasion of Russia by reactionary Polish forces, the Second Congress appealed:

"Stop all work, atop all transport, if you see that despite your protests the capitalist cliques of your countries are preparing a new intervention against Russia. Do not allow a single train, a single ship through to Poland." (Quoted in J. Degras, The Communist International 1919-1943  Documents, Volume 1, page 113)

In Britain, the London dockers rallied magnificently to their comrades in Russia when they refused to load the vessel Jolly George with arms for the Whites in Poland.

In July, with the Red Army driving back the invaders, the British government threatened to send troops to Poland. Council of action were set up by trade unionists throughout Britain, threatening a general strike if the intervention went ahead.

The British government  48 hours after rejecting the Soviet reply to its ultimatum  backed down.

On the battlefields of Russia, as in the international arena, the workers' victory was only made possible by the Bolsheviks' uncompromising revolutionary policy.

A soldier, speaking at a mass meeting in Petrograd, makes clear the class program that the Red Army was built on:

"The soldier says: 'Show me what I am fighting for...Is it the democracy, or is it the capitalist plunderers? If you can prove to me that I am defending the Revolution, then I will go out and fight without capital punishment to force me'.

"When the land belongs to the peasants and the factories to the workers and the power to the Soviets, then we'll know we have something to fight for, and we'll fight for it!" (John Reed, Ten Days That Shook the World, pages 45-46)

A key factor in the struggle is leadership  in the first place, ideas and program; but following from this, the role of individuals in grasping those ideas, embodying the forward drive of their class, and showing others the way.

It would be impossible, for example, to deny the historic contribution of Marx and Engels in the development of the program of socialism, or of Lenin in preparing the way for the October revolution.

Trotsky addressing Red Guards during the Civil War / Image: fair use

It would be equally impossible to underestimate Trotsky's role as Commissar for War from 1918 to 1925 in building the Red Army and leading it to victory.

Trotsky organized the Red Army as a revolutionary army, motivated by political understanding, not by blind obedience. His unshakeable confidence in the workers, youth and peasants who made up its ranks is best expressed in his own words:

"What was needed for [saving the revolution]? Very little. The front ranks of the masses had to realize the mortal danger in the situation. The first requisite for success was to hide nothing, our weaknesses least of all; not to trifle with the masses but to call everything by its right name." (My Life, page 43)

Dedicated young workers were attracted to the army, and became its vanguard. Trotsky continues:

"The Soviets, the party, the trades unions, all devoted themselves to raising new detachments, and sent thousands of communists to the [front]. Most of the youth of the party did not know how to handle arms, but they had the will to win, and that was the most important thing. They put backbone into the soft body of the army."

The "will to win" was "the most important thing". How to use arms can be learned in a short time. But the will to win can only be born out of a sense of purpose, a clear goal to fight for, and the understanding of how it can be achieved.

Lenin Trotsky and Kamenev in 1920 / Image: Recuerdos de Pandora

"Until Wrangel took over the remnants of the White Army [i.e., nearly at the end of the war], its officers set an example of drunkenness, looting and violence which their soldiers willingly followed. Outrageous treatment of the local population, the outspoken intention to restore the landlords, and the greater social cleavage between the Whites and the peasantry made the latter finally prefer the Reds." (Russia 1917 to 1964)

Thus the initial onslaught of the counter-revolution was defeated. The Bolsheviks, however, understood that their victory could bring no more than a respite in the struggle. As Lenin commented in 1920:

"We have now passed from war to peace. But we have not forgotten that war will come again. So long as both capitalism and socialism remain, we cannot live in peace. Either the one or the other in the long run will conquer." (Quoted by Trotsky, History of the Russian Revolution, Volume 3, page 365)

Setbacks in the International Struggle

In the mighty class movements that followed the October revolution, the overthrow of capitalism throughout Europe was on the agenda.

The victory of the working-class in the developed countries, in turn, would provide a basis for overcoming Russias crippling economic backwardness, and remove the threat of imperialist attack.

International organization was essential to unite the workers moving into action in the different countries, and direct the struggle against the worldwide capitalist alliance.

The Second International had ceased to exist as an instrument of the workers struggle for power.A new International needed to be built.

The Crisis of Working-class Leadership

Prior to 1914, the Second International was committed to oppose imperialist war by every means, including the general strike. Yet, when war was declared, the vast majority of its leadership came out in active or passive support of their own governments.

What were the root causes of this shattering betrayal?

The Second International was formed in 1889 as a federation of (mainly European) social-democratic parties, in general subscribing to Marxism. It was built during a period of imperialist expansion and generally stable growth in the developed capitalist countries. This had a decisive effect on its character.

Important struggles were fought under the banner of the International. Major concessions were won  democratic rights, better wages, better working conditions. A skilled and relatively well-paid aristocracy of labour was created in the process. Out of this layer, increasingly, the leadership was drawn, together with intellectuals who decided to build their careers in the labour movement.

Remote from the workers daily struggles, these leaders became increasingly comfortable in well-paid jobs as parliamentarians or party and trade union officials. Inevitably their ideas became affected by their surroundings. Their general mood was summed up in the theory of reformism put forward by the German social-democrat, E. Bernstein  the idea that capitalism could gradually be reformed out of existence through peaceful, parliamentary methods.

This meant that the struggle to overthrow the capitalist state could quietly be pushed into the background. The struggle could be led from the soft benches of parliament  at a high salary, paid by the state!

The reformist tendency assumed more and more monstrous proportions. Inevitably, it led to increasing collaboration with the capitalist class. Labour leaders became more and more involved with various organs of the state. Public positions gave them new privileges.

Through all these pressures a nationalist outlook was cultivated. The outlook of the social-democratic leaders was narrowed more and more to the institutions of national and local government. Their links with the international movement were reduced to mere sentiment and phrases.

The catastrophic consequences of this gradual process of political degeneration broke to the surface in August 1914, when the reformists almost unanimously came out on the side of the capitalist state. The workers struggle to overthrow capitalism, from this point onward, would be openly and furiously opposed by the reformist leaders.

Lenin at May Day rally in 1919 / Image: Flickr, The Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Library

A historic letter was sent out early in 1919 to the organizations of the revolutionary workers in different countries. It was signed by Lenin and Trotsky on behalf of the Russian Communist Party (the new name of the Bolshevik Party) and by workers leaders from other countries. It invited the organizations to a congress to be held in Moscow, and explained the purpose as follows:

The Congress must establish a common fighting front for the purpose of maintaining permanent coordination and systematic leadership of the movement, a centre of the communist international, subordinating the interests of the movement in each country to the common interest of the international revolution. (Quoted in Degras, Volume 1, page 5)

At this congress, held from March 2 to 6, 1919, the Communist (Third) International was formed.

From the Platform of the Communist International Adopted at the Founding Conference

The imperialist system is breaking down. Ferment in the colonies, ferment in the former dependent small nations, insurrections of the proletariat, victorious proletarian revolutions in some countries, dissolution of the imperialist armies this is the state of affairs throughout the world today

There is only one force that can save [humanity], and that is the proletariatIt must create genuine order, communist order. It must destroy the rule of capital, make war impossible, abolish State frontiers, change the entire world into one cooperative community

The growth of the revolutionary movement in all countries, the danger that the alliance of capitalist states will strangle this movementfinally, the absolute necessity of coordination of proletarian action  all this must lead to the foundation of a truly revolutionary, truly proletarian communist international.

The Internationalwill embody the mutual aid of the proletariat of different countries[It] will support the exploited colonial peoples in their struggles against imperialism, in order to promote the final downfall of the imperialist world system.

The inspiring advances by the working-class in 1918-1919, however, marked only the beginning of a drawn-out period of revolution and counter-revolution. In the ebb and flow of class battles flaring up across Europe, the workers were unable to hold on to their early gains.

Two main factors combined to produce a series of defeats: firstly, the deliberate treachery of the social-democratic leaders; secondly, the immaturity of the revolutionary currents in the workers movement outside of Russia  in other words, the weakness of genuine Marxist leadership even in the parties of the Third International.

In Germany, large sections of workers still had illusions in the reformist SPD leadership. In November 1918 the reformists, headed by Noske and Scheidemann, were pushed into government as conscious agents of counter-revolution.

Their strategy was to persuade the working-class to accept the authority of the democratic capitalist parliament. Then they rebuilt the armed forces of the capitalist state to break up the workers councils.

Rosa Luxemburg and Karl Liebknecht, the outstanding revolutionary leaders in the German workers movement, were murdered in January 1919 in the military counter-revolution unleashed by their former party comrades.

Rosa Luxemburg was a leading figure in the defeated German Revolution / Image: Rosa Luxemburg-Stiftung

But the German capitalists remained weak, and the workers movement was far from crushed. Many more battles would have to be fought before the question of power would be settled for any length of time.

The membership of the Communist International (Comintern) leaped explosively upward. Fifty-one national sections, with a total membership of 2.8 million (only 550,000 in the USSR) were represented at the Third Congress in 1921.

Many different political tendencies were drawn into the International, ranging from centrism (i.e. in between Marxism and reformism: revolutionary in words but vacillating in practice) to ultra-leftism.

In Hungary, it was the ultra-left mistakes of the Communist leadership that led to the defeat of the Soviet republic. Refusing to divide the land amongst the peasantry, insisting dogmatically on collectivizing the landlords estates, they were unable to win the support of the peasant masses and unify the country.

When counter-revolution struck in the form of an invasion by Romanian and Czechoslovak armies, the peasants were unwilling to fight for a government which refused their most basic demand.

In August 1919, after four months of heroic resistance, the workers republic fell. The workers movement was subjected to a hideous bloodbath in the reactionary terror that followed.

In Italy, it was the centrist spinelessness of the workers revolutionary leaders that made victory impossible.

A massive wave of factory occupations in 1920 created a revolutionary situation, with soviets controlling the factories and Red Guards defending them. The capitalist state was paralyzed. The task was to mobilize and arm the workers for the conquest of power.

The Marxist leaders of the Italian Socialist Party were forced by pressure from below to profess support for the Comintern. In fact they were divided, and even the maximalist (left) wing declined to lead the struggle. The initiative was allowed to pass to the reformists, who in turn handed power back to the capitalists  as usual, in return for some temporary concessions.

In France, in Ireland, in Britain, the Netherlands and many other countries the capitalist class managed to regain control with the assistance of the reformist labour leaders. In every case, this was possible only in the absence of a developed Marxist leadership able to seize the enormous opportunities and isolate the reformists, as the Bolsheviks had done in Russia.

By 1921 the workers struggle internationally was in a state of temporary ebb. A peculiar and dangerous correlation of forces was emerging: on the one hand, the capitalist class consolidating its position internationally; on the other hand, the Russian workers state isolated and exhausted.

The Exhaustion of Soviet Democracy

The Russian workers state survived the civil war, but at a terrible cost.

By 1920, the output of large-scale industry was down to 14 per cent of the 1913 level, and manufacturing output to less than 13 per cent. Agricultural production fell by a further 16 per cent between 1917 and 1921. Steel production stood at 5 per cent of the 1913 level.

Famine raged in east and south-east Russia during 1921 and 1922, killing five million people, reducing isolated communities to barbarism, even to cannibalism. The elan of 1917 was turned into despair, the drive to transform society into a grim struggle for survival.

Political democracy could not survive under these conditions. Every war demands a tight centralization of command over resources and manpower. A revolutionary civil war, moreover, is fought not only on the military front, but also against those sections of society who support the counter-revolution in the rear.

The October revolution had depended on an alliance between the working-class and the peasantry. The peasants had supported the workers state because it offered them peace and land.

But the deprivations of the war eroded the peasants support for the revolution. Manufactured goods became almost unobtainable, while food supplies were requisitioned from the peasantry to feed the Red Army and the cities.

Only the savagery of the White armies, and their intention of giving back to the landlords, prevented large sections of peasants from going over to the counter-revolution.

Freedom of speech and organization could not be maintained with society split into two and workers rule hanging by a thread. Hostile elements, agitating around the grievances of the masses, could have set the country on fire with rebellion and opened the door to counter-revolution. Trotsky explained:

We are fighting a life-and-death struggle. The press is a weapon not of an abstract society, but of two irreconcilable armed and contending sides. We are destroying the press of the counter-revolution, just as we destroyed its fortified positions, its stores, its communications, and its intelligence system. (Terrorism and Communism, page 80)

This was the period known as war communism. In the economy, the consumption of the countrys desperately scarce resources had to be strictly controlled. At the same time, anticipating the victory of the German working-class, the Soviet government hoped to pass from control over distribution to control over production, using the methods of war communism as the starting point for a planned socialist economy.

Reformists and ex-Marxists raised a great outcry at the ruthless measures the Bolsheviks were forced to take in crushing the counter-revolution. What is the difference, they asked, between the methods of Bolshevism and the old dictatorship of the Tsar [emperor]? Trotsky replied:

You do not understand this, holy men? We shall explain to you. The terror of Tsarism throttled the workers who were fighting for the socialist order. Out Extraordinary Commissions shoot landlords, capitalists and generals who are striving to restore the capitalist order. Do you grasp thisdistinction? Yes? For us communists it is quite sufficient. (Terrorism and Communism, pages 78-79)

Repression, however, was seen by the Bolsheviks as an exceptional and temporary method, forced on them by the imminent danger of reaction. Even under these critical conditions they remained conciliatory towards their political opponents, on condition that they supported the workers state in practice, and campaigned for their policies on that basis.

At no stage did the Bolsheviks put forward the idea of a one-party state, for which there is no foundation in Marxism.

In practice, however, those who supported the revolution overwhelmingly joined the Bolsheviks. The opposition parties were increasingly abandoned to out-and-out enemies of the workers state. They struggled, and they lost.

In June 1918 the soviets excluded the Right SRs and Mensheviks from their ranks as a result of their involvement with the counter-revolution.

As late as August 1920 the Mensheviks held their party conference in Moscow, and received press coverage. But by 1921 most of the Menshevik leaders had left Russia, to conduct their campaign against the Soviet state from abroad.

The Communist Party congress of 1921 recognized that workers democracy needed to be rebuilt. But the basis for workers democracy  the unity, organization and revolutionary energy of the working-class  had been shattered by the superhuman effort of winning the war.

The collapse of industry meant the decimation of the workers ranks:

By 1919 the number of industrial workers declined to 76 percent of the 1917 levelBy 1920, the figure for industrial workers generally fell from three million in 1917 to 1,240,000, i.e., to less than half. In two years the working-class population of Petrograd was halved. (A. Woods and E. Grant, Lenin and Trotsky: What They Really Stood For, page 75)

The workers political cadre  the class-conscious activists who had mobilized their workmates, led the strikes, taken up arms, created and led the soviets  was almost eradicated. As Ilyin-Zhenevsky recorded in Petrograd even in the opening days of the war:

the front was calling for reinforcements  both rank-and-file Red Army and leading executivesthe Petrograd Committee sent to the front about 300 such persons, members of our Party. We were having to sacrifice our best forces to the demands of the front. (The Bolsheviks in Power, pages 116-117)

Thousands of these revolutionary cadres perished in the war. Most of the survivors were absorbed into the ministries of the workers state.

The workforce remaining in the factories was transformed into the opposite of the revolutionary vanguard of 1917. As early as 1919 a delegate to the congress of trade unions warned:

We observe in a large number of industrial centres that the workersare being absorbed in the peasant mass, and instead of a population of workers we are getting a half peasant or sometimes purely peasant population. (Quoted by Woods and Grant, page 75)

With the class-conscious workers decimated and dispersed, with the raw, semi-peasant workforce in the factories struggling night and day to continue production with dilapidated equipment and constant shortages, the soviets ceased to function.

The All-Russian Congress of Soviets, which had been supposed to meet every three months, was meeting only once a year by 1918; and even those meetings were insufficiently prepared.

Through utter exhaustion the masses were no longer able to exercise power directly. This factor was decisive in the degeneration of the Russian workers state.

But, it might be asked, couldnt the Bolsheviks have ensured that the state remained an instrument of working-class policy? They were in power  why could they not stamp out bureaucratism and carry out socialist policies?

This question is also important in clarifying why, today, genuine socialist policies are impossible without mass working-class participation in the running of every state organ.

The next three sections will examine in more detail the objective barriers the Bolsheviks were faced with, the limitations of their control over the state apparatus in the absence of functioning soviets, and the effects of the changing situation on the Communist Party itself.

Bureaucracy and the Workers State

Lenin, shortly before the October revolution, brilliantly explained the nature of the workers state in his book The State and Revolution:

Alongside of an immense expansion of democracy, which for the first time becomes democracy for the poorthe dictatorship of the proletariat brings about a series of restrictions on the freedom of the oppressors, the exploiters, the capitalists. We must suppress them in order to free humanity from wage slavery; their resistance must be crushed by forcebut it is now the suppression of the exploiting minority by the exploited majority. A special apparatus, a special machine for suppression, the state, is still necessary, but this is already a transitional state. (see pages 107-110)

The dying away or withering away of the state as a specialized organ of repression and control, as armed bodies of men separate from the mass of people  this is the political measure of workers rule. Lenin sums up what it means:

The exploiters are naturally unable to suppress the people without a highly complex machinebut the people can suppress the exploiters with a very simple machineby the simple organization of the armed masses (such as the Soviets of Workers and Soldiers Deputies) (page 110)

How would this simple machine work in practice? How can the working people keep control over the state they had created, and prevent the growth of a military and bureaucratic elite? Lenins basic guidelines are as valid today as on the day they were written:

No official to receive a higher wage than that of the average skilled worker Administrative duties were to be rotated amongst the widest strata of the population to prevent the crystallization of an entrenched caste of bureaucrats. All working people were to bear arms to protect the revolution against threats from any quarter, internal or external. All power was to be vested in the Soviets. The composition of the Soviets, lay delegates from the workplaces subject to instant recall, obliged delegates to report back to mass meetings of their workmatesand thus ensure maximum mass participation. (R. Silverman and E. Grant, Bureaucratism or Workers Power?, page 3)

The revolution had smashed the old Tsarist state to the extent of driving out the most reactionary generals and nobles at the head of the ministries and the armed forces. Communists took their places wherever possible.

But a thoroughgoing transformation of the state apparatus was impossible with the resources of the isolated Soviet Union. The Bolsheviks numbered only 23,600 in February 1917. A minority of this number formed the cadre of the party, able to lead others in struggling for party policy. The state apparatus, on the other hand, numbered hundreds of thousands of officials.

Specialists and skilled administrators of the old regime could not be replaced; they had to be kept on, even at the cost of bribing them with privileges. In the town of Vyatka in 1918, for example, no fewer than 4,476 out of 4,766 officials were the same individuals who had previously served the Tsar.

Trotsky, in his book The Revolution Betrayed, explained the significance of what was taking place.

A workers state, he said, is a bridge between the bourgeois [capitalist] and socialist society. Its task is to create a society of abundance through the planned use of resources, through which class divisions  and the state itself as an organ of class rule  will disappear.

For the first period, the workers state has to operate with the economic means it has inherited from capitalism. It has to use the skilled people trained under capitalism and some of the methods of capitalism: the division of labour, the payment of wages, etc.

The whole development of the workers state is thus determined by the changing relations between its bourgeois and socialist tendencies (page 54)  i.e., between the remaining elements of the old bourgeois apparatus and its methods of control from above, and the development of working-class management from below.

Only the increasing command of the working people over society can eradicate the remnants of capitalism.

In backward Russia, however, the soviets had ceased to exist as organs of the armed people. Day-to-day administration was in the hands of an army of non-Communist officials, representing the outlook of the privileged layers in society.

Politbureau at 14th Conference of the All Union Communist Party / Image: fair use

Bureaucracy in a backward country, Trotsky explained, is a product of backwardness itself  the weakness of the working-class, its lack of skills, and the position of power which the state officials enjoy:

The basis of bureaucratic rule is the poverty of society in objects of consumption, with the resulting struggle of each against all. When there are enough goods in a store, the purchasers can come when they want to. When there are a few goods, the purchasers are compelled to stand in line. When the lines are very long, it is necessary to appoint a policeman to keep order. Such is the starting point of the Soviet bureaucracy. It knows who is to get something and who has to wait. (The Revolution Betrayed, page 112)

Thus, the bureaucracy in an isolated, backward workers state does not simply become redundant and die away. To the extent that the underdeveloped working-class is unable to take over its functions, bureaucracy acquires  at least for a period  an objective basis for its existence.

Through the bureaucracy, the pressure of the reactionary classes were exerted upon and within the Russian workers state. This became more and more obvious as the exhaustion of the soviets left officials with greater freedom to act as they wished.

The political representatives of the working-class, organized in the Communist Party, were caught up in an increasingly hard-fought struggle against this bureaucracy.

Lenin, struck down by illness in the last two years of his life, became sharply aware of the dangers of the situation. At the fourth Comintern congress in 1922 he gave the international delegates this frank appraisal of the position in Russia:

Undoubtedly, we have done, and will still do, a host of stupid thingsWhy do we do these foolish things? The reason is clear: firstly, because we are backward country; secondly, because education in our country is at a low level; and thirdly, because we are getting no outside assistance. Not a single civilized country is helping us. On the contrary, they are all working against us. Fourthly, our machinery of state is to blame. We took over the old machinery of state, and that was our misfortune. Very often this machinery operates against usWe now have a vast army of government employees, but lack sufficiently educated forces to exercise real control over them. (Lenin, The Fourth Congress of the Communist International, page 19)

By educated forces, Lenin meant Communist workers, organized and able to control the specialists. Lenin could offer no immediate solution to the problem because, within Russia, there was none.

In all our agitation, Lenin said, we mustexplain that the misfortune which has fallen upon us is an international misfortune, that there is no way out of it but the international revolution. (Quoted by Trotsky, History of the Russian Revolution, volume 3, page 367).

In other words, only the conquest of power by the working-class in the developed countries, and the provision of large-scale technical assistance to their brothers and sisters in Russia, could remove the basis for bureaucratic power.

Party Democracy

The exhaustion of the Soviet working-class placed a critical responsibility on the Communist Party and its leadership to defend the gains of the revolution.

War conditions destroyed the soviets, the basic organs of the workers state. By 1921, even the Executive of the Congress of Soviets was meeting only three times a year. Sovnarkom (the Council of Peoples Commissars, or government) remained as the effective organ of state power.

Sovnarkom consisted of leading Communists, elected to carry out party policy. Naturally they operated within the discipline of the party.

The party remained, in other words, as the nucleus and backbone of the workers state. Authority was necessarily concentrated in the hands of the central committee  and, later, the political bureau (Politbureau) elected by the central committee  as a result of the extreme centralization required by the war.

Signing the Treaty of Brest Litowsk / Image: fair use

Trotsky gave an example of what this meant at the Comintern congress of 1920, in relation to the question of signing peace with Poland:

Who decided this question? We have Sovnarkom, but it must be subject to a certain control. Whose control? The control of the working-class as a formless chaotic mass? No. The central committee of the party has been called together to discuss the proposal and decide whether to answer it. (Quoted in E. H. Carr, The Bolshevik Revolution, page 226)

But the centralization of power under Lenin and Trotsky, however uncompromising, at no stage degenerated into systematic bureaucratic imposition from above.

The party and its cadre had been built through the struggle to unite a large number of separate revolutionary groups, each with its own leadership and ideas, around a Marxist program. The method was that of debate. The right of members or groups (factions or tendencies) to question the leadership, and campaign for their ideas in an organized manner, was absolutely taken for granted.

In 1918, for example, the opposition of the Left Communists arose out of sharp debates within the party over the question of peace with Germany. For a fortnight they published their own daily paper in Petrograd; in Moscow they won control of the party organization.

But, with the start of the civil war, the Lefts closed ranks with the rest of the party and threw themselves into the struggle.

The explosion of unbridled workers democracy during those early days is well captured by the account of Ilyin Zhenevsky:

A Peoples Commissar [Minister]was obliged in some cases not to issue orders but to address requests to an administrative organ that was subordinate to him. And this own organ might not agree with the Peoples Commissar, and might refuse his request. This sort of thing was a common occurrence. A broad democratism in the way affairs were conducted found expression in the slogan power at a local level.' (The Bolsheviks in Power, page 30).

Even in the Red Army, critics of Trotskys leadership  essentially supporters of guerrilla war  were able to organize themselves as a military opposition and campaign for their views. They were defeated through argument and example.

In late 1920 there emerged the so-called Workers Opposition, with a program summed up by Carr as a hotchpotch of current discontents, directed in the main against the growing centralization of economic and political controls. (The Bolshevik Revolution, page 203)

Their views were carried in the party press, day by day, for months on end. A pamphlet stating their case was circulated at the party congress in March 1921, where the issues were to be fully debated.

The proceedings of the congress, however, were dramatically cut across by the uprising of sailors at the naval base of Kronstadt, an island in the Bay of Finland facing Petrograd.

The Kronstadt Uprising

In 1917 the Kronstadt sailors had been in the forefront of the revolution. By 1921 this generation had disappeared to the war fronts and been replaced with peasant conscripts, politically inexperienced, who came under Anarchist influence.

Affected by all the peasants grievances, demanding more freedom but without a program for solving the countrys problems, they staged an armed insurrection under the slogan Down with Bolshevik tyranny!

This presented a far more serious threat to the workers state than the bands of armed insurgents still roaming parts of the country. Kronstadt commanded the approach to Petrograd. With Kronstadt out of government control, Petrograd could not be defended. This gave the Whites and the imperialists a unique opportunity to attack a key centre of the revolution.

Kronstadt sailors in 1917 / Image: Anarkistimatruuseja

The Bay of Finland was still frozen, defended by heavy guns and by the Baltic Fleet, would become impregnable. Time to solve the crisis was very short.

The sailors refused to surrender. Trotsky with the unanimous support of the party leadership, ordered the attack. After days of bitter fighting, Kronstadt was taken by Bolshevik troops.

The survival of the Soviet Union once again hung by a thread. Would the rebellion spread? To delegates at the party congress it was clear that firm and united leadership was essential. Public divisions in the party, at this point, would have been seized upon by the enemy to disorient the workers and peasants. It was decided that organized factions within the party had to be dissolved.

Lenin, a year later, summed up the basis for this unprecedented position:

If we do not close our eyes to reality we must admit that at the present time the proletarian policy of the party is determined not by the character of its membership, but by the enormous undivided prestige enjoyed by the small group which might be called the Old Guard of the party. A slight conflict within this group would be enough, if not to destroy this prestige, at all events to weaken the group to such a degree as to rob it of its power to determine policy. (Collected Works volume 33, page 257)

The operative words were at the present time. The Bolsheviks knew that problems could not be resolved by organizational measures alone; in the longer run, unity could only be built on discussion, education and agreement. The denial of tendency rights could only be justified as an emergency measure in grappling with the immediate crisis, to be abolished as soon as the situation was once again under control.

The Struggle for Power in the Communist Party

The Kronstadt uprising underlined the explosive resentment that had built up among the peasantry at the sacrifices, shortages and forced requisitions imposed on them during the war years. There was no prospect of an immediate breakthrough by the working-class in the West. Clearly, it was impossible to continue the regime of war communism without risking a generalized insurrection.

Lenin, in a simple example, summed up the situation:

If we could tomorrow give 100,000 first-class tractors, supply them with benzine, supply them with mechanicsthe middle peasant would say: I am for Communism. But in order to do this, it is first necessary to conquer the international bourgeoisie, to compel it to give us these tractors. (Quoted in Woods and Grant, Lenin and Trotsky: What They Really Stood For, page 76)

The tenth party congress of March 1921 could see no alternative to abandoning war communism (first advocated by Trotsky the previous year) and adopting what was called the New Economic Policy (NEP)  a series of concessions to the capitalists and richer peasants who dominated agricultural production. It provided them with profit incentives to step up production for the market, as a means of feeding the towns and reviving industry.

The NEP undoubtedly succeeded in restoring a measure of life to the economy. By 1922 industrial output had risen to 25 percent of the 1913 level, though mainly in the branches of light industry supplying the peasants demand.

On the other hand, the NEP marked a serious retreat in the workers fundamental drive to collectivization and central planning of the economy. It greatly strengthened the so-called NEP-men  a breed of middlemen who took advantage of the continuing shortages to speculate and line their own pockets.

Chervonetz, money bill used under the NEP / Image: fair use

The balance of forces in Russian society was tilting further and further against the working-class. The kulaks and NEP-men shared a position of privilege with the state bureaucracy. These layers were becoming more confident and determined to consolidate their position. Their pressure on the workers leaders was increasing.

Victor Serge describes the distortions that were coming into existence:

Classes were reborn under our very eyes: at the bottom of the scale, the unemployed receiving 24 roubles a month; at the top, the engineer receiving 800; and in between the two, the party functionary with 222, but obtaining a good many things free of chargeThere was squalid, heart-breaking povertywhile wealth was arrogant and self-satisfiedThe young people drank, old people drank, drunkenness became a plague. And the worst of it was that we could no longer recognize the old party of the revolution. (From Lenin to Stalin, page 39)

The bureaucracy did not form a class in the Marxist sense (i.e., a social grouping with a necessary function in the productive system). Already it was degenerating into a layer of parasites, exploiting the shortage of skills to extort privileges as of right.

Inevitably, tensions were increasing between the arrogant, self-satisfied bureaucracy, entrenched in the state apparatus, and the surviving Bolshevik cadre. The bureaucracy could not rest easy while power remained in the hands of the revolutionary Marxists. A struggle for control over the Communist Party was inherent in the situation.

In the party, the Marxist cadre was stretched to breaking point by the demands of public duties, while the ranks of the party were swelled by a massive influx of new members. Membership increased from 23,600 in February 1917 to 115,000 at the beginning of 1918, 313,000 a year later, and 650,000 in March 1922.

Many of those who joined, especially during the dark days of the civil war, were militant workers and youth attracted to the party of the revolution. But, increasingly, ex-Mensheviks, bureaucrats, NEP-men and other hostile elements, seeking a new vehicle for their political ambitions, began to turn their attention to the Communist Party.

As early as March 1919 the eighth party congress recognized the danger:

Elements which are not sufficiently communist or even directly parasitic are flowing into the party in a broad stream. The Russian Communist Party is in power, and this inevitably attracts to it, together with the better elements, careerist elements as wellA serious purge is indispensable in the Soviet and party organizations. (Quoted by Carr, The Bolshevik Revolution, page 212)

The inner-party struggle was pushed into the background during the war years. The purge was eventually carried out in 1921-22. Unlike the ruthless bureaucratic attacks on opposition of later years, also known as purges, it consisted of a careful examination by local party organizations of their members, to decide which of them, through their commitment and activity, could in fact be counted as Communists.

A further decision by the eighth congress resulted in the establishment of a Peoples Commissariat of Workers and Peasants Inspection (Rabkrin) in February 1920, with the task of fighting bureaucratism and corruption in Soviet institutions.

As Peoples Commissar in charge of the new department, the congress had appointed Joseph Stalin  a party member of long standing; no theoretician but a good organizer, who was hardly known outside of the party itself. In 1922 Stalin was appointed to another important administrative position: that of general secretary.

Rabkrin failed totally in its task. In practice its members consisted, as Trotsky put it, of workers who have come to grief in other fields. Or as Lenin commented: the best workers have been taken for the front, (Quoted by Carr, pages 232-233).

But there were more fundamental reasons why the tide of bureaucratic encroachment could not be halted.

Russias backwardness was reflected, politically, in the weakness of the proletariat in relation to the peasantry and the reactionary classes, nationally and internationally. As Lenin put it:

While we continue to be a country of small peasants, there is a more solid basis for capitalism in Russia than for communism. (Quoted in The Platform of the Joint Opposition, page 6)

The social weakness of the Soviet working-class could not be overcome by administrative measures; bourgeois pressures within the state apparatus could not be eliminated through the creation of new bureaucratic structures. The solution lay in the political regeneration of the working-class through the advance of the revolution internationally.

Joseph Stalin in 1918 / Image: fair use

The influence of the bureaucracy increasingly pervaded the party. Many Communists, absorbed in complicated administrative work, were already being led by the bureaucracy.

Even the party leaders were coming under pressure to adapt to the practical demands of the bureaucracy, to concentrate on creating stability in Russia through organizational measures, and relegate the international revolution to the background.

Lenin, in his last period of active life, became increasingly aware of the dangers posed by the power of the bureaucracy. At the eleventh party congress in 1922 (the last he attended) he sounded this warning:

The [state] machine refused to obey the hand that guided it. It was like a car that was going not in the way the driver desired but in a direction someone else desired: as if it were being driven by some lawless, mysterious handperhaps of a profiteer, or of a private capitalist, or of both. (Collected Works, volume 33, page 279)

Stalin came to the fore in this period. It was not his own personality or abilities, or even his conscious intentions, that transformed this colourless individual into the tyrant of later years. Stalins rise to power was entirely a consequence of the changing balance of forces in society and the state.

The bureaucracy of the workers state was beginning to isolate the socialist tendency, and to corrupt elements in the workers leadership that were politically weak. Stalin was a key official who proved most consistent and reliable to the bureaucracy. As Trotsky explains:

(Stalin) brought (the bureaucracy) all the necessary guarantees: the prestige of an old Bolshevik, a strong character, narrow vision, and close bonds with the political machineThe petty-bourgeois outlook of the new ruling stratum was his own outlook. He profoundly believed that the task of creating socialism was national and administrative in its nature. (The Revolution Betrayed, pages 93, 97)

The exceptional centralization of power brought about by the civil war was, to the bureaucracy, the natural method of government. It provided the means of protecting their privileges against the threat of future working-class control.

Stalin played a central role in the consolidation of the bureaucracys position within the party apparatus. From 1922, he systematically installed his own followers as branch, district and provincial secretaries. This gave him effective control over the day-to-day implementation of policy, the organization of meetings, the election of congress delegates, etc.

These manoeuvres paved the way for a head-on collision with Lenin, Trotsky and the remainder of the Bolshevik leadership.

The Turning Point

1923-1924 marked a turning point in the Soviet Union: a period when the contradictions in the state and the party erupted into a decisive political struggle.

By the end of 1922 Lenin was seriously ill after suffering a series of strokes. It was no longer certain when or if he would return to political activity.

The bureaucracy was hostile and fearful towards Trotsky  next to Lenin the most authoritative and implacable Marxist leader of the party. However, certain old Bolshevik leaders  swayed by political narrowness, personal ambitions and loyalties  were also reluctant to see Trotsky, in Lenins absence, take his place at the head of the Politbureau.

In December 1922, Zinoviev (then president of the Communist International) and Kamenev (a close associate of Zinoviev) formed a secret faction with Stalin (later known as the trio or triumvirate) for the specific purpose of conspiring against Trotsky. This gave them an effective majority in the six-member Politbureau and, as a result, a commanding authority over the central committee and the party as a whole.

It was Lenin, from his sickbed, who first sensed the significance of what was happening, and opened the struggle against Stalin and the bureaucracy.

In a brief note, later known as his 'Testament, Lenin wrote on December 25, 1922: Comrade Stalin, having become General Secretary, has unlimited authority concentrated in his hands, and I am not sure he will always be capable of using that power with sufficient caution

Ten days later he added:

Stalin is too rude, and this defect, although quite tolerable in our midst in dealing and among us Communists, becomes intolerable in a General Secretary. That is why I suggest that the comrades think about a way of removing Stalin from that post and appointing another man in his stead who in all other respects differs from Comrade Stalin in having only one advantage, that of being more tolerant, more loyal, more polite and considerate to comrades, less capricious, etc. This circumstance may appear to be a negligible detail. But I think that from the standpoint of safeguards against a splitit is not a detail, or it is a trifle which may assume decisive importance (Collected Works, vol. 36, pg. 594-596).

Lenin did not spell out the decisive importance which he feared that Stalins behaviour could acquire. But what could it mean except that Stalin, coming into conflict with the best representatives of Marxism in the party, would find himself the tool of hostile forces  the kulaks, the bureaucracy, the capitalists and profiteers?

This insight alone could explain Lenins surprising demand that the general secretary be removed so quickly after his appointment.

But with Lenin on his deathbed, Stalin and his faction behaved with increasing arrogance, abusing their powers in defiance of all the traditions of the party.

Matters came to a head with Stalins bureaucratic incorporation of the Soviet Republic of Georgia into the USSR (formed on January 30, 1922) and his repression of the local Bolshevik leaders. Lenin, when he found out what had happened, felt that a struggle against this alien tendency in the party could no longer be postponed.

Too ill to attend the twelfth party congress in April 1923, Lenin entrusted Trotsky with the task of defending the Georgian Bolsheviks by delivering a bombshell against Stalin.

But Stalin retreated, accepting all Trotskys criticisms and correcting his formulations on the national question. Trotsky was reluctant at this point to press home a public attack on Stalin, which would have been seen as a power struggle for Lenins position, and would have raised the danger of splitting the party.

Final photo of Lenin / Image: fair use

Thus, a confrontation was postponed. Shortly afterwards Lenin suffered a further stroke, and was eliminated from political activity until his death in January 1924.

Over the next months the tensions in the party exploded around two central issues: party democracy, and economic policy.

At the congress Trotsky had drawn a balance sheet of the NEP, and pointed out the dangerous lag in industrial production. He used a diagram of price changes of industrial and agricultural products to illustrate his point. It had the appearance of an open pair of scissors: agricultural prices showing a downward line, and industrial prices a rising line.

By March 1923, industrial prices had reached 140 per cent of their 1913 levels, while agricultural prices had dropped to less than 80 per cent. The problem which this reflected was subsequently called the scissors crisis.

If industrial production continued to decline and prices continued to rise, Trotsky warned, a break between the peasantry and the proletariat, between the countryside and the towns, would become inevitable.

The congress accepted Trotskys arguments for a new turn within the framework of the NEP: to develop the state sector on the basis of a central plan, and to expand industry, to eventually absorb and eliminate the private sector.

But this policy change remained a dead letter. The bureaucracy, bound to the private sector by ties of common privilege, had no desire to undermine it. In practice they continued as before to rely on the kulaks to increase production for profit.

In July and August there was a wave of strikes as workers vented their frustration against their harsh conditions. The leaders  many of them old Bolsheviks  were arrested on the orders of the bureaucracy. All the signs showed that the sickness in the party was reaching a dangerous level.

Trotsky sounded a warning. Imprisoning opponents, he explained, would solve nothing while the immediate causes of the conflict remained: lack of economic planning, and the hold of the bureaucracy over the party.

This present regime, Trotsky wrote to the Central Committee on October 8, is much further from any workers democracy than was the regime under the fiercest period of war communism. (Documents of the 1923 Opposition, page 2) The hierarchy of secretaries, appointed from above, created party opinion, dominated the rank and file workers, and ensured that critical views were given no genuine hearing.

Within days of Trotskys protest, a statement was issued by 46 other leading party members, expressing their criticism of the Politbureaus course and various proposals to correct it.

Victor Serge, a member of the 1923 Opposition, explains the general position:

The country was approaching an irremediable economic crisis, a crisis which might arouse a hundred and twenty million peasants against the socialist power and place it at the mercy of foreign capital by forcing it to import (on credit? and under what conditions?) great quantities of manufactured goods. To forestall this crisis certain measures had to be taken before it was too late.

These measures were:

To restore democracy in the party, so that the influence of the workers might be felt; to ventilate the State bureaus. This was the obvious condition for the success of all economic measures. To adopt a plan for industrialization and appreciably rebuild industry within a few years. In order to obtain the resources necessary for industrialization, force the well-to-do peasants to deliver their wheat to the state. (From Lenin to Stalin, page 40)

Thus, the lines of the inner-party conflict were being drawn more clearly. It was a struggle between opposing social forces: between a tendency basing itself on the working-class, and one defending the well-to-do peasants and other privileged sections.

The trio and their supporters were thrown into turmoil by the challenge. The statement by the 46, against all party precedent, was banned, and Trotsky was condemned for initiating it.

But, under pressure from the majority of the party (including the army and the youth), the bureaucracy was forced to retreat. They accepted the demands of the Opposition in words, and proclaimed a New Course of freedom and democracy in the party  but keeping all the strings of power in their hands.

Trotsky replied with an Open Letter to party members on December 8, warning that a New Course on paper was not enough, that the party could not be turned back onto the road of Bolshevism unless the rank and file  and the youth in particular  acted to regenerate and renovate the party apparatus. (The New Course, page 71)

This letter was received with tremendous enthusiasm among the party workers  and by the bureaucracy as a declaration of war. The debate was to be resolved at the thirteenth conference, meeting in January 1924.

The struggle in the Soviet party, however, was decisively cut across by the developments in Germany during 1923.

The Defeat of the German Revolution

Germanys precarious stability was shattered in January 1923 when French troops occupied the Ruhr industrial area to extract, at gunpoint, the war reparations which the German imperialists were being forced to pay as the price of their defeat in the World War.

The German economy slumped. Inflation, already skyrocketing during 1922, became astronomical  probably in the region of 1,000,000,000,000,000 percent during 1922-1923!

The living standards of workers and the middle-class collapsed. The working-class swung sharply to the left. Factory councils sprang up in opposition to the reformist union leaders. The KPD (Communist Party of Germany) grew by tens of thousands. Proletarian hundreds (workers militias) were formed, involving 60,000 workers by the autumn, with (by capitalist estimates) 11,000 rifles in their hands.

In two states, Saxony and Thuringia, left-wing SPD governments were in power, relying on KPD support.

On August 11 a general strike brought down the right-wing Cuno government in Berlin. Germany was in a revolutionary crisis.

The workers leadership was unprepared. The KPD leadership was divided between the centre, left and right factions, with the cautious Brandler at its head. Hesitation and uncertainty marked its policy throughout.

The Comintern was increasingly affected by the struggle in the Soviet party. The conservatism and short-sightedness of the bureaucracy, transmitted through the leadership of the Soviet party, was beginning to prevail.

The Comintern representative in Germany, Radek, gave his full backing to Brandler. As late as July Stalin advised that the Germans should be restrained and not spurred on. (Carr, The Interregnum 1923-1924, page 195)

Only with the fall of the Cuno government did the Executive Committee of the Comintern (ECCI) accept Trotskys argument that a struggle for power was on the agenda in Germany, that political and organizational preparations for armed insurrection urgently needed to be made.

KPD propaganda poster / Image: Flickr IISG

But tragically, this policy was not followed through. Trotsky sums up what happened:

Why didnt the German revolution lead to a victory? The reasons for it are all to be sought in the tactics, and not in the existing conditions. Here we had a classical example of a missed revolutionary situation. After all the German proletariat had gone through in recent years, it could be led to a decisive struggle only if it were convinced that this time the question would be decisively resolved and that the Communist Party was ready for the struggle and capable of achieving the victory. But the Communist Party executed the turn [to insurrection] very irresolutely and after a very long delay. Not only the Rights but also the Leftsviewed rather fatalistically the process of revolutionary development up to September-October 1923. (The Third International After Lenin, page 70)

The triumvirate was incapable of intervening and instilling a bold revolutionary understanding of the situation in the KPD leadership. Trotsky was deliberately isolated. The consequences were disastrous. As a close co-worker of Trotsky wrote in 1936 (quoted in Ted Grant, The Rise and Fall of the Third International, page 28):

When the German bourgeoisie at last gathered its forces, proclaimed a state of siege, proceeded to take the offensive, the [KPD] capitulated without a struggle  that is, they called off the insurrection. (Word of the capitulation did not reach Hamburg in time, and an isolated uprising took place, which was crushed after days of fighting.)

The failure of the KPD leadership cost the German working-class, and the European revolution, the chance of a victory that would have changed the course of world history. Instead, the KPD was declared illegal for some months. With massive US aid, the German economy was stabilized and capitalism pulled back from the brink.

A few months earlier the mass Bulgarian Communist Party after its leaders, dogmatically, refused to enter a united from with the Peasant Union government against a right-wing military coup. Also in Poland the workers, inspired into action by the German events, were defeated.

These setbacks had a critical effect on the inner-party struggle in Russia. Germany in particular had always been seen as the key to the European revolution. Now it became clear that no relief could be expected from Western Europe in the months or years ahead.

A vicious cycle was set in motion. The increasing grip of the bureaucracy on the Soviet party (and through it, on the Comintern) was becoming a serious obstacle to the development of revolutionary policies and leadership internationally. The setbacks resulting from this, in turn strengthened the currents of demoralization and conservatism which the bureaucracy thrived on.

Less politicized workers began to lose confidence in the Marxist perspective of international revolution. To backward layers, the scepticism and cynicism of the bureaucracy began to look realistic.

A wave of depression passed over Russia, Serge wrote, and the bureaucracy had its own way for three years. (From Lenin to Stalin, page 42)

The Invention of Trotskyism

The party bureaucracy resorted to vote-rigging to exclude Opposition delegates from the thirteenth conference in January 1924, where the inner-party debate was to be decided.

In Moscow, for example, the Opposition had majority support in most of the cells (branches). In the regional elections, despite ruthless weeding out of Opposition supporters by Stalin's appointed secretaries, 36 percent of the vote still went to the Opposition. Yet, at the provincial level, this vote was mysteriously halved.

From the whole of the USSR, only three Opposition delegates managed to get into the conference!

Zinoviev: the inventor of Trotskyism / Image: public domain

Then came the news of Lenin's death. The mass of workers and youth were plunged into even deeper gloom, while the bureaucracy immediately felt themselves in a stronger position.

The triumvirate now set out to defeat the Opposition's power base among the party activists. Supposedly in tribute to Lenin, they threw the party open to workers  had not Trotsky criticized the fact that only 15 percent of the membership were workers?

Between February and May 1924 some 240,000 workers were admitted. This so-called Lenin levy was, in fact, a mockery of the method of party-building that Lenin had developed.

As the party congress had explained in 1919:

"The Communist Party is the organization which unites in its ranks only the vanguard of the proletariat and the poorest peasantry  that part of these classes which consciously strives to realize in practice the communist program. "The Communist Party makes it its task to win decisive influence...in all organizations of workers..."

Flooding the party with raw recruits went directly counter to this task  but it served another purpose. The Lenin levy, the trio calculated, would in the first place provide them with voting fodder to swamp the Opposition. Inexperienced members, confronted with unfamiliar problems, will tend to follow the lead they are given. Very few would feel able to challenge the Politbureau.

As in Russia, there was strong support for the Opposition in the Communist parties internationally. The central committees of the mass-based French and Polish parties, for example, protested against the attacks on Trotsky.

Zinoviev and Kamenev / Image: public domain

The triumvirate could not tolerate this. Zinoviev, as Comintern president, ruthlessly abused his position, disbanding the leading bodies of national parties to get rid of Trotsky's supporters  under the slogan of Bolshevization!

Yet the bureaucracy could not feel secure as long as Trotsky, with his giant authority as theoretician and co-leader of the October revolution, continued to subject their opportunism and blunders to merciless Marxist criticism. It was essential for the Zinovievites and Stalinists to rewrite history and cover Trotsky's name in mud.

Their tactic was to invent Trotskyism (a phrase coined by Zinoviev in December 1923). This consisted of raking up each and every past difference between Lenin and Trotsky in order to insinuate that Trotsky had always been opposed to Bolshevism.

Trotsky was reviled as a Menshevik (after the confusing split between the Bolsheviks and Mensheviks in 1903 he had, for a few months, found himself in the Mensheviks' camp before the political differences between them became clear) and also as an ultra-left! In particular his theory of permanent revolution was seized on to demonstrate his petty-bourgeois deviation from Leninism.

In fact, Trotsky's fundamental disagreement with the Mensheviks was precisely the basis for his political alliance with Lenin in 1917 and after.

The Mensheviks, Trotsky explained, "took as their point of departure the idea that to the liberal bourgeoisie...belonged the leading role in the bourgeois [democratic] revolution. According to this pattern, the party of the proletariat was assigned the role of Left Wing of the democratic front." (Introduction to The Permanent Revolution, page 3).

From this it followed that the revolution should be carried out in two stages: first, a "democratic" stage (on the basis of capitalism); and only at some point in the future would "socialism" be on the agenda.

Trotsky rejected this mechanical formula and developed his own analysis of the character of the revolution in a backward country such as Russia. This analysis, brilliantly confirmed by the October Revolution, became known as the theory of permanent revolution.

"In the event of a decisive victory of the revolution," Trotsky wrote in 1906, "power will pass into the hands of that class which plays a leading role in the struggle  in other words, into the hands of the proletariat...The political domination of the proletariat is incompatible with its economic enslavement. No matter under what political flag the proletariat has come to power, it is obliged to take the path of socialist policy." (Results and Prospects, pages 201, 233).

He added:

"Should the Russian proletariat find itself in power...it will encounter the organized hostility of world reaction, and on the other hand will find a readiness on the part of the world proletariat to give organized support...It will have no alternative but to link the fate of its political rule, and, hence, the fate of the whole Russian revolution, with the fate of the socialist revolution in Europe." (page 247)

Lenin, in April 1917, came to identical conclusions. By 1924, the term permanent revolution had not been an issue for years, and the debate about it was purely historical.

For the bureaucracy, however, the party's commitment to revolutionary internationalism  defended above all by Trotsky  was becoming an intolerable thorn in the flesh.

With the defeat of the German revolution it became clear that the Soviet Union faced a period of prolonged isolation. To the bureaucracy, the perspective of world revolution became more and more wishful thinking. They wrote off the working class in the west, and settled down to the practical task of managing the Soviet Union in the midst of a capitalist world.

Material conditions call forth ideas. In the 1890s, Bernstein had developed the theory of reformism to justify the real-life retreat from the program of class struggle by the right wing of social democracy.

Similarly, in 1924-25, Stalin produced a theory which reflected the conservatism of the Soviet bureaucracy, expressing their opposition to the Marxist position that Trotsky represented, and attempting, in Marxist terms, to justify their break with it: the theory of socialism in one country.

Socialism in One Country

On the strength of three quotations plucked from Lenin's voluminous writings, Stalin in December 1924 put forward the unheard-of idea that socialism could be built in Russia without the victory of the working class in the developed countries.

This idea went counter to everything Lenin had tried to explain, even in the documents Stalin quoted. Lenin went no further than to point out that in Russia the political conditions for socialist transformation (a workers' regime supported by the peasantry) had been created by the October Revolution. At no stage did Lenin entertain the illusion that the economic preconditions existed in backward Russia.

Stalin's crude 'theory' of 'socialism in one country' had no basis in Marxism / Image: public domain

As late as February 1924, Stalin himself had still preached the exact opposite of socialism in one country:

"...can the final victory of socialism in one country be attained, without the joint efforts of the proletariat of several advanced countries? No, this is impossible...For the final victory of socialism, for the organization of socialist production, the efforts of one country, particularly of such a peasant country as Russia, are insufficient. For this the efforts of the proletarians of several advanced countries are necessary." (Stalin, Foundations of Leninism)

Yet, within months, Stalin took a completely different line:

"If we knew in advance that we are not equal to the task [of building socialism in Russia by itself], then why the devil did we have to make the October Revolution? If we have managed for eight years, why should we not manage in the ninth, tenth or fortieth year?" (Quoted in Carr, Socialism in One Country, Volume 2, page 181)

What made Stalin turn his ideas upside-down?

Basically, it was the changing balance of forces that emboldened the non-theorist Stalin to throw down the gauntlet to all the theorists of Marxism. The Opposition, the ideas of Marxism and the class demands of the workers were being silenced while the bureaucracy, increasingly arrogant, was prevailing.

The idea of revolutionary struggle against capitalism internationally (permanent revolution) was entirely alien to the new masters of the Soviet Union. Stalin's thoroughly dishonest argument was not a theory in the true sense of the word (an attempt at explaining reality). It was nothing more than an attempt at burying the program of permanent revolution, of Marxism itself.

To cover their tracks, the bureaucracy increasingly altered party history, and Marxist textbooks, to make it appear to the workers that their policy was the consistent continuation of Bolshevism. By November 1926, for example, Stalin felt able to declare:

"The party always took as its starting point the idea that the victory of socialism in one country means the possibility to build socialism in that country, and that this task can be accomplished with the forces of a singly country"! (Quoted by Woods and Grant, page 109)

Taken to its conclusions, Stalin's theory denied the need for a revolutionary International. Defence of socialism in the Soviet Union, in contrast to the building of socialism through world revolution, now became the primary task of the Communist parties internationally.

In practice, this meant uncritical support for the policies and national interests of the Soviet bureaucracy. (In 1943, Stalin himself confirmed this in the most blatant manner when he dissolved the Comintern  by then a bureaucratic shell  at the stroke of a pen, in order to prove to his wartime allies, the imperialist leaders Roosevelt and Churchill, that the Soviet leadership had abandoned all thought of world revolution.)

The Opposition were denounced as pessimists and cynics for questioning the bureaucracy's crude, anti-Marxist ideas.

In reality it was the Opposition who had consistently explained the need for industrialization to strengthen the basis of workers' rule in the Soviet Union. (For this, in turn, they were denounced as super-industrialisers!) But they had also explained that this in itself would not be enough to complete the transition to socialism.

On the other hand, cutting loose from the program of internationalism meant writing off the perspective of reconstruction in Russia in any real sense  i.e., as part of a socialist Europe. The bureaucracy's alternative was to rely more openly on the kulaks as mainstay of the national economy. Bukharin, in April 1925, went so far as to blurt out:

"To the peasants...we must say: Enrich yourselves, develop your farms, do not fear that constraint will be put on you." (Quoted in Carr, Socialism in One Country, Volume 1, page 280)

This slogan came under attack because it was too blatant and it was dropped by the central committee, but the general idea became party policy.

Stalin and Bukharin / Image: public domain

Before the year was out, Stalin was even considering whether to denationalise the land!

By this time the triumvirate was breaking up. Its purpose had been accomplished. Zinoviev and Kamenev had joined forces with the mediocrity Stalin out of hostility towards Trotsky; now they recoiled from the ruthless Stalin who had taken virtually all power into his own hands.

Political differences among the trio now began to surface.

At the party congress in December 1925, Zinoviev and Kamenev began to raise questions about Stalin's ideas. It was left to Trotsky, however, to develop a fundamental Marxist refutation of socialism in one country, and expose its inherent dangers.

Today the question has taken on even greater importance than in the 1920s. The powerful present-day Soviet regime has enormous influence in the mass movement internationally, especially in the underdeveloped countries. The bureaucracy's philosophy of socialism in one country (or national roads to socialism) has become the conscious or unconscious starting point for many of the leaders.

Trotsky's reply to Stalin remains the clearest basis for answering these ideas and working out the Marxist way forward.

Why Marxism Stands for Internationalism

Trotsky demonstrated that the program of internationalism (now labelled permanent revolution) had never been challenged in the Bolshevik Party prior to 1924. Stalin's crude challenge, however, made it necessary to once again explain the question fundamentally.

Trotsky started with the basic ideas of Marxism. Civilization, he explained, advances through the development of the productive forces  through the struggle by people and classes in society to supply their material needs, in the process stimulating the development of science, technology, politics and culture.

It was left to Trotsky to make a principled defence of Marxist Internationalism / Image: public domain

Social systems come into existence on the basis of the organization of production. A social system can only be swept away when it has come to the limits of its development, and a new revolutionary class, with the capacity to reorganize and further develop the forces of production, is prepared to take power.

The necessity for socialism arises out of the obstacles created by the capitalist system to the further development of the productive forces. The historical purpose of socialism is to develop society beyond the economic and political limits of capitalism, to new levels of abundance and freedom.

"Socialist society", as Trotsky explained, "can be built only on the most advanced productive forces...on combining, generalizing and bringing to maximum development the highest elements of modern technology...Socialism, however, must not only take over from capitalism the most highly developed productive forces but must immediately carry them onward...and give them a state of development such as has been unknown under capitalism." (The Third International After Lenin, pages 40-41)

The struggle and sacrifice to end capitalism and build socialism, in other words, could have no justification  and no attraction for the mass of working people  if it represented no advance (or a step backward) from the standards of living that capitalism is able to offer.

Why does socialist transformation make possible a huge leap forward even from the highest achievements of capitalism? On the one hand, because it frees production from the anarchy of market forces, the distortions of private ownership and the limits of national states. On the other hand, it liberates the collective ingenuity and creativity of the mass of working people from the repressive discipline of capitalist production.

Workers' democratic rule, in other words, is an essential political precondition for the transition to socialism and communism.

Why can this transformation not be carried through within the borders of one country? Precisely because capitalism has developed as a world system. The most advanced productive forces are not contained in any single country; they depend on the combined efforts of the working class in whole series of countries, tied together through world trade. Certainly they could not exist in an underdeveloped country, such as Russia in 1917.

The transition to socialism  for control of the most advanced productive forces  can only be an international process, depending on the conquest of power by the working class in at least a number of industrialized countries (which would seal the doom of the capitalist class on a world scale).

As long as workers' rule remains confined to a single country, it will face the combined hostility of the capitalists of the world, with vast economic and military resources at their disposal.

Stalin's crude argument, that the October revolution could have no other aim than the construction of socialism in Russia, therefore completely missed the point. Lenin, in one of many statements on the question, answered him in advance:

"Single-handed, the Russian proletariat cannot bring the socialist revolution to a victorious conclusion. But it can give the Russian revolution a mighty sweep that would create the most favorable conditions for a socialist revolution, and would, in a sense, start it. It can facilitate the rise of a situation in which its chief, its most trustworthy and reliable ally, the European and American socialist proletariat, could join the decisive battles." (Collected Works, Volume 23, page 372)

What Socialism in One Country Really Meant

The Soviet Union could not overtake capitalism and advance to socialism because it did not dispose over the highest productive forces within its boundaries. Even basic necessities for survival could only be obtained through trade with the imperialist powers.

The immediate challenge was to catch up with capitalism, to conquer the commanding heights of the world economy, and so lay the basis for constructing socialism as an international system.

The Soviet Union's fundamental weakness, in other words, lay in its economic and technical backwardness compared with the advanced capitalist countries. Backwardness was the root of bureaucratization (see Section 6); bureaucratic rule excluded workers' democracy, and formed an absolute barrier to socialist transformation.

The bureaucracy persisted in seeing the international problems of the revolution in essentially military terms, and gambled on the ability of the Soviet Union to defeat future imperialist invasions.

As Trotsky pointed out, even the military threat of imperialism resulted from its technical superiority. But, he added, "it is not so much military intervention as the intervention of cheaper capitalist commodities that constitutes perhaps the greatest immediate menace to the Soviet Union. (The Third International After Lenin, page 37)

In other words: the Soviet masses would defend their gains, and fight the threat of open counter-revolution. But demoralized and disillusioned by bureaucratic rule, they could not be expected to defend their own backwardness against a capitalist enemy apparently offering them a superior way of life.

14th Conference of the All Union Communist Party / Image: public domain

In the event it was not the armies of capitalist democracies that invaded the Soviet Union in 1941 but those of Hitler. With them, instead of cheaper commodities for the Russian masses, they brought barbed wire and the gruesome paraphernalia of slave labour and extermination camps.

Subjected to barbarous racial repression by the Nazis, the Russian workers rallied heroically in defence of the Soviet Union.

Today the balance of forces internationally have swung massively against the imperialist powers, and there is no longer any possibility of capitalist restoration in the Soviet Union. The bureaucracy have diverted huge resources into military development, and transformed the Soviet Union into a nuclear superpower. The threat of imperialist invasion has effectively been ended.

But even this spectacular economic progress, possible only on the basis of a state-owned and planned economy, could not overcome the distortions in Russian society created by the rule of a privileged elite.

Bureaucratic repression stifled all initiative from below. The workers were driven forward through a combination of bribes and compulsion. The bureaucracy's soothing phrase of building socialism at a snail's pace (in Bukharin's phrase) made a mockery of workers' aspirations.

All it meant, in real terms, was the laborious struggle to develop the state-owned economy in a backward country  under their own rule.

Marx and Engels, as early as 1845, had anticipated why socialism could not be built under conditions such as these:

"This development of productive forces...is an absolutely necessary practical premise [of socialism] because without it want is merely made general, and with destitution the struggle for necessities and all the old filthy business would necessarily be reproduced." (From The German Ideology, in Selected Works, Volume I, page 37)

This insight was starkly borne out by the bureaucratic degeneration of the Russian workers' state. The bureaucracy could only build a society of inequality. With inequality came increasing corruption and police repression on the part of the bureaucracy and, among the masses, a grim battle of "each one for himself".

A letter from a kolkhoz (collective farm) worker, written in April 1930, summed up the new relations being created between the working people and their bureaucratic masters:

"The members of the kolkhoz have for two months received no pay...Fifty percent of the revenue goes to the kolkhoz treasury, fifty percent for taxes and rent. What remains for the workers? No one knows. The president pays himself several flour certificates each month and refrains from all physical labor..."

A factory worker in March 1930:

"They are squeezing us, and how! Twenty-five percent increase in the productivity of labour and 1.9 percent increase in wages. For three years wages have not varied, though production has very much increased. Five men to the brigade instead of six, without change of equipment. The system of bonuses is applied in such a way that...they should be paid every six months, but in reality no one hopes to receive any..." (Quoted by Serge, From Lenin to Stalin, pages 60, 61)

Socialism cannot be built under these conditions. The essential political condition for the development of socialism, created by the October revolution and destroyed by the bureaucratic counter-revolution, has still to be re-conquered: democratic working-class rule.

Zinoviev and Kamenev, with their supporters, joined forces with Trotsky and the Opposition in 1926 in a struggle to pull the party back from Stalin's increasingly anti-Marxist course. Stalin, for his part, joined forces with the extreme right, pro-kulak wing of the party, headed by Bukharin, for the purpose of defeating the United Left Opposition.

This struggle was cut across by new upheavals internationally.

In Britain, the general strike of May 1926 provoked a profound crisis. The small Communist Party was presented with the opportunity of leading hundreds of thousands of workers in opposition to the reformist TUC leadership, and prepare the transfer of power to the working class.

But the Stalinist leadership in Russia was tied in an opportunistic alliance with the 'lefts' on the TUC General Council, and permitted no struggle against them. The TUC right wing betrayed the strike at the first opportunity. Stalin's 'left' allies offered no resistance.

After 10 days, with the strike still spreading, the General Council unanimously called it off and surrendered to the bosses. This condemned the British working class to a historic defeat.

"The cause of the proletarian revolution in the West", wrote Serge, "seemed lost for many years to come. And now an immense light was rising in the East; the Chinese masses...were advancing from victory to victory." (From Lenin to Stalin, page 44)

The Chinese working class was moving independently of the nationalist movement, the Kuomintang, led by the reactionary Chiang Kai-shek. The Chinese Communist Party was becoming a mass force. Shanghai and Hankow were in the hands of the workers. A struggle for power was inevitable.

Chiang Kai Shek and wife with Lieutenant General Stilwell / Image: public domain

Again, Stalinist opportunism stood in the way of victory. Stalin and the Comintern leadership had dangerous illusions in Chiang Kai-shek, and declared the Kuomintang to be "a revolutionary bloc of the workers, peasants, intellectuals, and urban democracy [i.e. the capitalist class] on the basis of a community of class interests...in the struggle against the imperialists and the whole militarist-feudal order". (Resolution of ECCI, March 1926)

In practice this meant that the Communist Party had to submit to Chiang's authority. What was this except the old Menshevik idea of common struggle by the working class and the 'democratic capitalists' for democracy on a capitalist basis?

The Left Opposition fought this policy every inch of the way. They exGeneral Secretary Xi Jinping greets local residents in Sanhe, a village in Zhaojue county, Sichuan province, on Sunday. Ju Peng/Xinhua

General secretary takes his message to impoverished villages in Sichuan.

Communist Party of China Central Committee General Secretary Xi Jinping paid a visit to poor families in a mountainous area in Sichuan province on Sunday, where he talked with villagers about poverty reduction, ahead of the upcoming Spring Festival.

Xi spent two hours on a bus traveling from Xichang to Sanhe and Huopu villages, both in Zhaojue county in the Liangshan Yi autonomous prefecture in southwestern China, on Sunday morning.

Since the CPC's 18th National Congress in late 2012, Xi has visited poverty-stricken areas ahead of Spring Festival every year. Shortly before last year's Spring Festival, he visited poor families in Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, to talk with the people about how to increase their incomes.

In February 2016, Xi visited Jinggangshan, home to the CPC's first rural revolutionary base, in East China's Jiangxi province, to inspect poverty alleviation work there. During his visit he said that the country should not leave any impoverished family or person behind.

"Measures and work to alleviate and eliminate poverty must be precise. Policies should be made according to the (needs of) households and individuals," Xi said in Jinggangshan.

In December 2012, shortly after he was first elected general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Xi paid a visit to impoverished Fuping county in Hebei province, where he chatted with farmer Tang Rongbin at his village home.

"The most arduous task facing China in completing the building of a moderately prosperous society is in rural areas, especially poverty-stricken regions," Xi said during the trip.

The CPC has made a solemn promise to lift all rural residents living below the current poverty line out of poverty by 2020. It will be the first time in China's thousands of years of history for extreme poverty to be eliminated.

The number of people living in poverty in rural areas was reduced by over 10 million last year, Xi said in his 2018 New Year address.

While discussing with lawmakers from Sichuan during the annual session of the National People's Congress last March, Xi said that it was a heartbreaking moment when he read the news about pupils from the province who had to climb dangerous mountains to go to school every day.

The whole process of poverty reduction requires tailored poverty relief policies and precise measures, and sometimes patience and accuracy akin to "doing embroidery", Xi told the lawmakers of Sichuan.ENFIELD, Conn. -- Connecticut will end the $13 million state tax credit it gave MassMutual in 2014 now that the insurance giant has decided to end its operations here and move 1,500 jobs to its home campus in Springfield.

MassMutual spent $38 million in 2014 on renovations to create the Bright Meadow campus in Enfield, which it used as the headquarters of its retirement services operation.

The offices, with a half million square feet of space, sit on 65 acres off Interstate 91 just south of the state line from Longmeadow.

We are proud to announce our expansion and re-investment in Massachusetts with 2,000 jobs and $300 million over the next 4 years. https://t.co/jj40H7CFFw pic.twitter.com/T1qyxfT0jd  MassMutual (@massmutual) February 8, 2018

Jim Watson, a spokesman for Connecticut's Department of Economic and Community Development, said MassMutual is ineligible for the tax credit program now that it will not maintain the jobs in Connecticut.

For its part, MassMutual has met its obligations to date but didn't access any of those credits, said MassMutual spokesman James Lacey.

MassMutual announced plans last week to expand in Massachusetts. The company touted the plan as a $300 million investment that would add or move 2,000 jobs to the state over the next four years. Of those, 1,500 jobs from the Enfield campus will move to the MassMutual headquarters on State Street in Springfield, which will get a $50 million upgrade.

In Boston, MassMutual will build a new campus on land it owns at Fan Pier in the city's Seaport District where other financial industry employers are located. In time, MassMutual expects the Boston operation to grow to 1,000 workers.

In addition to Enfield, MassMutual is also closing offices in Charlotte, North Carolina; Somerset, New Jersey; Memphis, Tennessee; and Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

MassMutual expects to keep offices in Amherst, New York City and Phoenix, which provide access to specific talent pools and business solutions. The Amherst office is home to its data science lab staffed by graduate students.

Now with 1,500 workers, the Enfield campus had 1,900 employees in 2014, according to an announcement sent out at the time by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy trumpeting the investment.

The tax credits were available over 10 years through the Connecticut Urban and Industrial Sites Reinvestment Tax Credit program.

Last week, MassMutual said Massachusetts officials promised the company $46 million in tax incentives.

It's a credit Massachusetts officials defended as necessary given the way states compete for companies like MassMutual, and high-paying jobs like these.

Lacey said workers will remain at Enfield for some time while MassMutual makes decisions about who goes where.

Both the Enfield campus and the headquarters on State Street in Springfield are now at about 60 percent capacity, Lacey said. He said one reason the offices are not full is that many people work remotely.LENOX --Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, hosted a topping off event on Monday at the construction site of its new four-building complex.

The new building complex will support the performances and rehearsal activities of the Tanglewood Music Center -- the BSO's prestigious summer music academy -- and serve as the home of the new Tanglewood Learning Institute.

The beam, which was placed on top of the covered walkway connecting each building, was painted white and signed by the construction team and the event attendees.

Scheduled to open in summer 2019, the new four-building complex is being designed by William Rawn Associates, Architects, led by William Rawn and Cliff Gayley, and is the largest building project at Tanglewood since the construction of Ozawa Hall in 1994, also designed by William Rawn Associates.

Construction began in September 2017 and since then, the team of workers on the project have put in 23,921 hours of work, with the peak manpower level hitting 50 people through five months of the project thus far.

The construction team is on schedule for substantial completion of the project in 10 months.

In addition, 72 percent of the subcontracts for the project have been awarded to Western Massachusetts firms, with 16 percent based in Berkshire County.

The $30-million building project is part of a multi-year fundraising effort to support ongoing Tanglewood building upgrades and horticultural renewal programs.With less than 100 days to go before the wedding of Britain's Prince Harry and American actress Meghan Markle, Kensington Palace has released some of the details.

Prince Harry, 33, is the younger son of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana. His wedding will be smaller in size to that of his parents, or older brother, Prince William to Kate Middleton. However, it will have all the earmarks of a royal gala.

"Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle are hugely grateful for the many good wishes they have received since announcing their engagement," according to Kensington Palace. "They are very much looking forward to the day and to being able to share their celebrations with the public."

The guest list is a closely guarded secret, though it is obvious that members of Britain's royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip, are expected to attend.

Here is what is known:

Service: Set for Saturday, May 19 (noon, London time; 7 a.m., Eastern Time) at St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, some 22 miles outside London. The 15th century chapel can accommodate about 800 guests. The couple will be married by the Archbishop of Canterbury The Most Revd. and Rt Hon. Justin Welby. However, the full service will be led by The Rt Revd. David Conner, the Dean of Windsor.

Horse-drawn carriage ride: Much like the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, the newlyweds will ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the streets of Windsor after exchanging their vows. The ride is set to begin at 8 a.m. ET. After the carriage ride along High Street and through Windsor Town, the newlyweds will return to the Windsor Castle along the route called The Long Walk.

"They hope this short journey will provide an opportunity for more people to come together around Windsor and enjoy the atmosphere of this special day," according to the Kensington Palace statement.

Wedding reception: The afternoon wedding reception will take place at St. George's Hall, one of the most elaborate, and largest, state rooms at Windsor Caste. The hall was rebuilt in 1997 after a fire five years earlier.

Evening reception: After a late afternoon break, there will be a private evening reception given by Harry's father, Prince Charles. The location and time have not been announced.

The wedding service will begin at 12noon at St George's Chapel. The Dean of Windsor will conduct the service and The Archbishop of Canterbury will officiate as the couple make their vows. pic.twitter.com/dTS56fy22c  Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) February 12, 2018By ELIZABETH LaFOND-COPPEZ

Special to The Republican

In 1971, Rafael Fernandez left his home in Puerto Rico in hopes of securing a better future for his family. He came to Holyoke, but never imagined what would transpire.

Fernandez found a job at American Pad & Paper, one of Holyoke's many paper mills, and found an apartment in the city's Flats neighborhood. His wife, Ada, left Puerto Rico to join him, and they had three daughters, Ada, Jacqueline and Evelis.

Unexpectedly, Fernandez got hurt while on the job at Ampad, and fate stepped in. He met a gentleman who was selling a restaurant.

"After a family meeting, my mom and dad opened Fernandez Family Restaurant. I was a freshman at Holyoke High School," remembers Rafael's daughter Ada Fernandez.

Fernandez Family Restaurant began serving customers in 1988 on Suffolk Street. They moved to 111 High St. after their restaurant sustained water damage when the old Knights of Columbus building caught fire. They eventually moved to their current location, 161 High St.

The parents transitioned most of the business responsibility to daughters, Ada, who is part owner, and Jacqueline, who has a manager role. Evelis Fernandez is practicing psychiatry.

The restaurant is bright, inviting and clean with fresh flowers at every table. The menu is bursting with flavors from Puerto Rico: fresh pork shoulder; rice and beans; and so much more.

"On busy days, we can sell 60 to 70 of our specialty pork dishes, Ada Fernandez says. "Everything we cook here is fresh. Nothing is ever frozen. We've learned and studied our clients so we know exactly what we need to cook each day."

Customers can also hire Fernandez Family Restaurant for catering jobs large and small. "We cater simple lunches to high-end weddings," says Ada Fernandez.

The restaurant works together with Cariana's Design & Coordination to offer event planning, flowers and decor for events. "We ensure our customers don't have to worry about any details," she says. "We give 200 percent with everything we do!"

On March 3, Fernandez Family Restaurant will host an open house and tasting event for future brides and Quinceaneras to see decorations and centerpieces and try dishes including menu items ranging from chicken piccata to lobster tails.

"We have regular customers who started with my parents in 1988," Ada Fernandez says. "They are very faithful and loyal to us!"

Fernandez Family Restaurant has become a true gathering place for homecomings, celebrations or "just because" occasions. But the Fernandez family does more than serve special, home cooked meals.

"My parents are very humble and generous people," Ada Fernandez says, explaining how the family keeps a special closet at the restaurant, well stocked with items that can help in the community. "We see people's lives go through changes, and for those who go from good to bad, we help. We have coats, hats, and a small food pantry."

Fernandez says her father has a collection of old, run-down bikes that he's refurbishing, so he can donate to the kids in the community.

"My parents instilled these values in us," she says. "(We try to) help people all year 'round."

The family continues to donate food, water and supplies to Puerto Rico, as many on the island are still without fresh water and electricity since the aftermath of Hurricane Maria last September.

"I'm a Holyoke girl," Fernandez stresses. "I love this community, and I grew up here. My future plans are here. We consider ourselves a landmark in this community, and we will continue the legacy my parents started. We're very honored to be able to serve such an amazing city!"The second teen struck by a vehicle Saturday night in Needham died from her injuries, the Norfolk District Attorney's Office said Sunday.

Adrienne Garrido, a 17-year-old junior at Needham High School, was in a Boston hospital after the crash that occurred around 6:30 p.m. Saturday in the area of Webster and Holland streets in Needham.

"It is with great sorrow that we inform you of the passing of the second victim in the fatal motor vehicle crash in the area of Webster and Holland Streets in Needham last evening," the Norfolk District Attorney's Office said in a news release.

Garrido and her friend, 16-year-old Talia Newfield, also a junior at Needham High School, were both struck by the vehicle. The crash occurred right near the high school.

Newfield died at a local hospital after the crash.

Students were at the school Sunday meeting with grief counselors. Both students were student athletes. Flowers were left outside the school Sunday.

Police on Sunday said the crash remains under investigation by Needham and Massachusetts State Police. No one had been charged as of Sunday night.

Needham High School Principal Aaron Sicotte called Newfield an energetic and artistic athlete who was strong member of the school community.

In a statement before Garrido's death, Sicotte called her an equally talented young woman who was a devoted friend to Newfield.A 24-year-old man accused of killing his girlfriend and attacking his parents is scheduled to appear in court Monday morning.

He will be arraigned in Wrentham District Court first before being transferred to Dedham District Court in connection with the homicide.

Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey said the exact charges Walsh will face will be made public at the arraignment.

Authorities say Ben Walsh stabbed his 20-year-old girlfriend multiple times inside the apartment they shared on Marshall Street in Needham.

After the attack, Walsh drove to Primavera, an Italian restaurant in Millis where several of his family members were celebrating a birthday.

At the restaurant, police say Walsh stabbed his parents.

He was restrained by several family members at the restaurant following the attack.

Walsh's mother was hospitalized in serious condition. His father received medical treatment then was released.

The body of Walsh's girlfriend was discovered in the apartment the young couple shared after he was in custody.

She has been identified as Olivia Bergstrom, a graduate of Holliston High School who studied interior design at the Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston.When Ben Walsh arrived at the restaurant where family members were celebrating a birthday, he was barefoot, "filthy" and carrying a large knife.

Once inside Primavera in Millis, the 24-year-old lunged at his mother, Laura Walsh, and stabbed her before stabbing his father, Michael Walsh, according to court documents filed by Millis police.

Walsh was then restrained on the ground by multiple men in the restaurant.

"I approached and took control of the situation, Walsh was very combative and refusing to be handcuffed," Millis Det. Domenic J. Tiberi wrote in his report. "During the struggle with Walsh, I observed his hands to be covered in blood."

While he was being handcuffed, Walsh reportedly threatened to kill the detective and others around him.

As four to five men held Walsh down, others in the restaurant used table linens to compress bleeding from his mother's abdomen.

"F--- you b------, I'm going to kill you all," police said Walsh said as he was restrained.

The knife Walsh reportedly used during the attack was recovered at the scene by police.

After Walsh was placed under arrest, family members expressed concern for his girlfriend, 20-year-old Olivia Bergstrom, whom he lived with in Needham.

Officers conducted a well-being check on the third-floor apartment the young couple shared and found Bergstrom. She had suffered multiple stab wounds prior to her death.

Walsh is facing two counts of armed assault to murder, two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and resisting arrest in connection with the attacks on his parents. Authorities have yet to announce charges connected to the death of Bergstrom.

Immediately following his arrest, he was taken to Milford Hospital for evaluation of his right hand, which suffered a laceration, and a psychological evaluation.

Laura Walsh was rushed to Beth Israel of Boston where she was listed in serious condition. Michael Walsh was transported to Norwood Hospital for his injuries and has since been released.

Walsh battled substance abuse and mental health concerns prior to the attack, his father told Boston 25, but had never acted violently.

He learned that his son was accused of killing Bergstrom while watching the news in the emergency room.

He said Walsh will live to regret his actions after he "realizes what he did."When police arrived to the apartment Ben Walsh shared with his girlfriend, Olivia Bergstrom, officers had to break down the door to gain entry.

Earlier Saturday evening, Walsh arrived at Primavera Restaurant in Mills where family members were celebrating a birthday. He attacked his parents, stabbing his mother multiple times before turning the large kitchen knife he was wielding onto his father, according to court documents.

The attacks left his mother, Laura Walsh, in serious condition. After Walsh was taken into police custody and his parents were taken in to area hospitals for medical care, other family members urged police to check on Bergstrom.

They found her inside the apartment in Needham the couple moved into together over the summer, suffering multiple stab wounds.

She was found "jammed" behind the door wearing minimal clothing, Norfolk Assistant District Attorney Lisa Beatty said at Walsh's arraignment on Monday.

An autopsy of Bergstrom was conducted on Sunday, which ruled her death a homicide and the cause of death multiple stab wounds.

"The victim had suffered 13 stab wounds to her back, three stab wounds to her abdomen, one on her left wrist, her left shoulder and four wounds on her tricep and bicep," Beatty said during the arraignment. "There were additional stab wounds on her upper left buttock area and her lower spine and there were some puncture marks in her upper chest area."

Bergstrom was a graduate of Holliston High School who went on to study interior design at the Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. She loved animals - especially her dogs and horses - traveling and sharing a vegan meal with loved ones.

The young couple were together for just over two years and recently spent the holidays with each others families.SPRINGFIELD - Contestants revealed they used Belgian chocolate, bacon grease, fresh chopped oregano, brown sugar and even Jack Daniels as secret ingredients to make the perfect chili for this year's Melha Shirners Chili cook-off.

And they used tons of peppers. The cooks added green peppers, red peppers chipotle peppers, jalapeno peppers and serrano peppers hoping to stun the judges and win applause from the more than 50 people who attended to sample the chilis cooked by more than a dozen different contestants.

"I'm from the Midwest and we like to do activities like this to get out of the house and fight cabin fever," said Shonn Monday, of Ware, a member of the Melha Temple who began the contest and entered his own ribeye chili in the competition.

"There's lots of chili and lots of fun," he said, summarizing the event held on Sunday at the Melha Shrine in Forest Park.

This is the seventh year the Melha Shrine has held a chili cook-off to raise money for the organization. People paid $20 to enter and visitors paid $7 to sample as much chili as they wanted, said Michael Robinson, of Longmeadow, a member of the Melha Shrine's Sportsman Club which organized the event.

"All the money goes to the temple and it helps us help the community," Robinson said.

The organization is best known for its many efforts to raise money for Shriner's Hospital for Children in Springfield but is also does other philanthropic work, he said.

Contestants came from throughout Western Massachusetts and ranged from professionals to a 15-year-old who has been experimenting with her recipe for two years. Judges first narrowed the entries to six finalists in a double-blind competition and the final winners were selected by Mayor Domenic Sarno, City Councilor Kenneth Shea and Mike Knuerr.

The final three judges selected a chili entered by a team from the Texas Roadhouse Restaurant, in Springfield, for first place while Sugar DL's cooked by Berneice Dixon, of Wilbraham, won second place and Ted Tabin, of Team Tabin of Agawam, won third place.

Visitors also had a chance to name winners through the "People's Choice" award. Every person was given three dried beans which they could drop into cups of their favorite cook. People could also buy extra beans as part of the fundraiser, Robinson said.

In the People's Choice category, Glenn Suprenant, who is also the potentate for Melha Shrine, came in first, Dixon won second place and RJ Benz, of Agawam, came in third for this sweet heat chili.

The Texas Roadhouse chili is a slow-cooked stew made of fresh ground beef, chopped red onion, flour and a mix of spices. It takes about two hours to cook, said Mak Petitfrere, the kitchen manager.

Sarah Reilly, the legendary store marketer, selects charitable events for the business to join. She said she was a patient herself at Shriner's Hospital and her children also received services there so she was excited to enter the restaurant's chili in Sunday's competition.

Sonia Valentine dropped all three of her beans in the unique chili made by Bob Wool, of Springfield. The chili was made with roast chicken, white beans, lots of peppers and no tomatoes.

Because his wife doesn't like tomatoes and cumin together, Wool said he tried a new recipe she found and they both liked it.

"It's layered in flavor without being too spicy" he said.

Valentine, of Montgomery, said she gave him credit for trying something unique and meeting his wife's tastes.

"I never had chili with chicken so it broadened my horizons," she said. "I like the way the ingredients mix together."

R.J. Bentz called his concoction a "dessert chili" made with chocolate, brown sugar and New York strip sirloin. He also made his own sour cream to go with it.

"It has a burn at the end," he said. "A lot of people love it or they hate it because it isn't traditional."

Steven Stark, of Agawam has been competing on a national level with his chili, that includes chipotle peppers, Belgian chocolate and a splash of Jack Daniels, for a number of years and won a national chili contest in West Virginia in 2012. Even though he has won national awards, Stark said he also enjoys competing locally.

While Stark is a veteran at chili competitions, Sophie Hastings, 15, also of Agawam, entered her venison chili for the second time in the cook-off.

The high school student said she wanted to offer something unique and she tried venison chili in other Cook-offs and liked them.

"I cook it with bacon grease because venison is a very lean meat," she said. "I cook it with a lot of vegetables, celery, kidney beans, enchilada sauce and fresh chopped oregano."HOLYOKE -- Residents are invited to a "community meeting" to discuss a plan to convert to middle schools at 6 p.m. on Tuesday at Lawrence School, 150 Cabot St.

"Parents, students and members of the community are strongly encouraged to participate in this interactive format," said a press release from the Holyoke public schools.

The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) has approved a study for the city to examine whether to build one large or two smaller middle schools, said Stephen K. Zrike, the state-appointed receiver in charge of managing the Holyoke public schools.

Discussions with families, teachers and school staff over the past few years yielded the "overwhelming" preference to separate elementary and middle schools, Zrike said.

The City Council and Mayor Alex B. Morse have approved $800,000 to study middle school options. Jones Whitsett Architects of Greenfield will be the designer, Zrike said.

Two new middle schools could cost $60 million or more, based on recent construction projects in other cities and towns, and the plan is to pursue 80 percent reimbursement of that cost from the state, officials have said.

Sites currently occupied by Lawrence School, which has has kindergarten to grade three, and Peck School at 1916 Northampton St., which has grades four to eight, are potential middle school sites, Zrike said.Russian Emergencies Ministry employees work near the site of an air crash outside Moscow, Russia, on Feb. 11, 2018. A passenger plane with 71 on board crashed shortly after leaving Moscow, with no hope of survival of the crew and passengers, a source in emergency services told the Interfax news agency on Sunday. (Xinhua/Sputnik)

MOSCOW, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- A passenger plane with 71 people on board crashed shortly after leaving Moscow, with no hope of survival of the crew and passengers, a source in emergency services told the Interfax news agency on Sunday.

The Antonov-148 of Saratov Airlines with 65 passengers and a crew of six was en route from Domodedovo Airport in Moscow to Orsk of the Orenburg Region in western Russia.

Radio contact with the seven-year-old Russia-made plane was lost at 14:21 Moscow time (1121 GMT), several minutes after the takeoff.

"Tentatively, the plane has crashed near the village of Argunovo. The crew and passengers had no chance to survive," the source said.

A woman is interviewed near the site of air crash outside Moscow, Russia, on Feb. 11, 2018. A passenger plane with 71 on board crashed shortly after leaving Moscow, with no hope of survival of the crew and passengers, a source in emergency services told the Interfax news agency on Sunday. (Xinhua/Bai Xueqi)

Witnesses in the village of Argunovo told news media that they saw a burning plane falling from the sky, and the Interfax report said fragments of two dead bodies have been found.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered "his profound condolences to those who lost their relatives in the crash" and issued an order to set up a government commission to probe into the crash, Putin's press secretary Dmitry Peskov said.

The Russian Investigative Committee has opened an investigation into the crash and Russian Transport Minister Maksim Sokolov has flown to the scene.

Police guard near the site of air crash outside Moscow, Russia, on Feb. 11, 2018. A passenger plane with 71 on board crashed shortly after leaving Moscow, with no hope of survival of the crew and passengers, a source in emergency services told the Interfax news agency on Sunday. (Xinhua/Bai Xueqi)

The Russian Transport Ministry told Interfax that several reasons of the crash are being considered, including weather conditions and human factors.The father of Benjamin Walsh continues to process the shocking scenes that unfolded Saturday night, when his 24-year-old son was accused of stabbing his girlfriend to death and then attacking his parents shortly after.

While still recovering from stab wounds, Michael Walsh spoke to Boston 25 on Sunday. He told the news station that his son was "out of his mind." He also said his son suffered mental health and substance abuse problems in the past, though he never expected violent actions like this.

Ben Walsh is accused of fatally stabbing his 20-year-old girlfriend, Olivia Bergstrom in his Needham apartment on Marshall Street Saturday night before driving to a family gathering at a Millis restaurant where he attacked his parents. Family members were able to tie Walsh up before police arrived and placed him into custody.

Walsh will be arraigned Monday in Wrentham District Court in connection with the Millis stabbings.

The suspect's father reportedly told Boston 25 that his son would live to regret his actions once he "realizes what he did." Michael Walsh told reporters he first learned his son was accused of killing Bergstrom while watching the news in the emergency room.SOUTHWICK -- The victim of a fatal vehicle crash on Route 57 early last week has been identified as 76-year-old town resident Robert Goodwin.

The Hampden District Attorney's office released Goodwin's identity Monday morning.

Goodwin was a passenger in a vehicle that crashed on Feb. 5 at about 5 a.m. in the area of Great Brook Drive, police said. The vehicle hit a tree on the north side of the road.

The driver was taken to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield by Westfield ALS ambulance. The condition of the driver, believed to have suffered non-life-threatening injuries, was not immediately available

Goodwin was taken to Baystate Noble Hospital in Westfield which reported he died from his injuries.

The single-vehicle crash remains under investigation by the Southwick Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police Crash Accident Reconstruction Section, and the district attorney's Motor Vehicle Homicide Unit.She never met a horse she couldn't win over. She had a dog named Scarlett. She had a future.

But the grandfather of 20-year-old Olivia Bergstrom said her future will now never be known after her boyfriend, 24-year-old Benjamin Walsh fatally stabbed her.

Paul Bergstrom, Olivia's grandfather released the following statement:

"Devastated does not even begin to describe how we feel about losing our Olivia. Olivia was a smart, vibrant, beautiful young woman with a bright future ahead of her. She was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, and friend. Olivia was a lover of animals who never met a horse she couldn't win over. She was passionate about living a healthy life. She had a dog named Scarlett. She loved her family fiercely.

"Our hearts are broken at the thought of Olivia not being in our lives, taken from us and her future in a way we cannot comprehend. We know her spirit remains with us and we will do everything in our power to keep her memory alive and celebrate the short time we had the privilege of having her in our lives. We ask for our privacy and your respect at this time as our family begins the long journey of rebuilding our lives."

Walsh was arrested Saturday night after police were called to the Primavera restaurant in Millis where investigators say he attacked his two parents with a knife during a family celebration.

His mother, Laura Walsh, was in serious condition. His father was treated for injuries as well.

Family members urged police to check on Bergstrom at the couple's Marshall Street apartment in Needham, court records said.

Investigators found her "jammed" behind the door. She had been stabbed several times.

"The victim had suffered 13 stab wounds to her back, three stab wounds to her abdomen, one on her left wrist, her left shoulder and four wounds on her tricep and bicep," a prosecutor said during Walsh's arraignment at a hospital bed in Milford Regional Medical Center. "There were additional stab wounds on her upper left buttock area and her lower spine and there were some puncture marks in her upper chest area."

Walsh and Bergstrom were together for just over two years. Bergstrom is a graduate of Holliston High School and had studied interior design at the Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston.

Walsh pleaded not guilty to a murder charge in connection with Bergstrom's killing and to charges in connection with the stabbing of his parents. A judge ordered him held without bail.Police have arrested a man who they say broke into people's homes in Massachusetts while they attended wakes or funeral services.

Authorities say they began to suspect the 35-year-old Plymouth man during an investigation into a series of break-ins on Cape Cod.

The man had previously served an 18-month prison sentence on a 2012 conviction for breaking into a police officer's home as the officer attended his mother's funeral.

Barnstable police say they began following the man's car Friday while other officers went to homes of residents attending funeral services.

Officers discovered a break-in in Cotuit and pulled the man over. Police arrested him after finding jewelry in his sweatshirt pockets.

The man, who police nicknamed the "obit bandit," is facing multiple charges including felony breaking and entering.PITTSFIELD - A 39-year-old Pittsfield man is under arrest and charged with the July 4 shooting of a man in the area of Durant Park, according to the office of Berkshire District Attorney David Capeless.

J.C. Chadwell of 62 Seymour St. was arranged Monday morning in Central Berkshire District Court on a single count of murder in connection with the killing of Paul L. Henry.

Henry, 39, was found shot to death in Durant Park at around 11 p.m. on July 4. Witnesses told police that Henry was seen arguing with another man shortly before the shooting.

There had apparently been a party going on in the park that night, and some neighbors heard gunshots but thought they were just fireworks until a body was noticed in the street.

At his arraignment, Chadwell was ordered by Judge Mark Pasquariello to be held without the right to bail at the Berkshire County House of Correction. He is due back in court on March 14.

Chadwell was arrested as a result of an investigation by detectives with the Pittsfield police, along with assistance from the Berkshire County Sheriff's Department, state police detectives assigned to Capeless's office, the Berkshire Law Enforcement Task Force and the state police Firearms Identification Section.PALMER - Police are investigating a shooting that happened Sunday evening.

One person was shot just before 6 p.m. in the area of Calkins Road, James Lydon, spokesman for Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni, said.

The victim was taken to the hospital by ambulance. Leydon and Palmer Police Lt. Christopher Burns did not comment on the victim's condition immediately.

Details are limited at the time. The Massachusetts State Police assigned to Gulluni's office is assisting Palmer Police with the investigation, Leydon said.

The call initially came into police as a disturbance. When police arrived they learned a person had been shot, Burns said.

"There is no reason for the public to be alarmed," he said.

Burns could not say if police have any suspects in the crime. No arrests have been made.

Police have closed Calkins Road to traffic. The heavy rain and fog is making the investigation more complicated.

Monson Police are also assisting at the scene.

This is a breaking story. Masslive will update as more information becomes available.Vanessa Trump, the wife of Donald Trump Jr., was hospitalized as a precaution today after opening a letter containing an unidentified white powder.

The letter was addressed to Donald Trump Jr., President Donald Trump's eldest son, NBC News reported.

Three people in Trump Jr.'s apartment, including Vanessa Trump, were taken to New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical Center as a precaution, the New York City Fire Department told NBC News.

The powder was found to be non-hazardous and was taken to a lab for further evaluation, the NYPD told the ABC 7.

This is a developing story.BUCKLAND -- A state senator from Central Massachusetts said Sunday that small farmers, and not just big investors, should be able to grow marijuana as a cash crop.

"It shouldn't be just for these big businesses," said Sen. Anne Gobi, D-Spencer. "It should be an opportunity for small farmers."

Gobi, chairman of the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture, said she submitted testimony to the state's Cannabis Control Commission and encouraged others to do the same.

Gobi's testimony, submitted in November, stated that some farmers hope to cultivate marijuana seedlings and sell the immature plants at their farm stands. Selling such plants directly to consumers "would be different from that of the traditional cannabis producer or retailer," Gobi wrote to commission chairman Steven J. Hoffman.

Gobi spoke in Buckland Sunday at an agriculture summit hosted by Rural Commonwealth, a coalition designed to boost the political clout of Massachusetts' 170 small rural towns. She was joined onstage at Mohawk Trail Regional High School by Sen. Adam Hinds, D-Pittsfield.

Gobi and Hinds spoke about a range of farm-related issues, including an upcoming environmental bond bill and pending agriculture legislation sponsored by Gobi, whose sprawling district extends from the New Hampshire border to Connecticut.

As for the 2016 ballot initiative that legalized marijuana, "small farmers were kind of left out, and that was extremely unfortunate," Gobi said. The bill was subsequently rewritten by the Legislature, and Gov. Charlie Baker's cannabis commission has been touring the state to gather input on its pending regulations.

Hinds, recently appointed to Senate Committee on Ways and Means, agreed with Gobi that financial and regulatory barriers to marijuana cultivation should not disqualify Massachusetts farmers.

"This is a potential billion-dollar industry," said Hinds. "And if there are farmers in Western Mass. who want to enter that game, we want to make sure they are starting at the same point" as big corporations and well-heeled investors.

The commission's draft regulations do allow for "marijuana cultivator cooperatives" comprised of Massachusetts residents. The cooperatives would be licensed to "cultivate, obtain, manufacture, process, package and brand" marijuana and marijuana products. The cooperatives could only deliver to marijuana establishments and not sell directly to consumers.

U.S. Rep. James McGovern, D-Worcester, who sits on the House Agriculture Committee, also spoke at Sunday's event, held at Mohawk Trail Regional High School. He gave an update on the 2018 Farm Bill, which he said is now being written behind closed doors.

"Nobody's seen it," he said. "No farm bill is better than a lousy farm bill."

McGovern said he would oppose any farm bill that guts hunger and nutrition programs or fails to address the needs of New England farmers.PALMER -- The Town Council on Monday submitted a letter to the state transportation department requesting they make the study of a passenger rail stop in town a priority.

The current draft of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's "Massachusetts Rail Plan," released in January, ranked a potential Palmer station at the lowest priority level, "Tier 3." Proposals in that category are not being considered for further action, according to MassDOT.

"Limited market with little local planning to establish station context," the plan says of a potential station.

But town officials disagree.

"Palmer is situated at the heart of a region of fifteen towns stretching from the Connecticut border to Belchertown and the Brookfields, including the tourist area centered in Sturbridge," says a Feb. 12 Town Council letter to the state. "People living in this region regularly commute or travel to Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and other points north and south along the Pioneer Valley."

The letter asks MassDOT to move a study of a Palmer station -- and a long-debated East-West rail study -- into the highest priority level, "Tier 1." The draft plan lists the East-West rail study is a "Tier 2" priority.

A rail route between Springfield and Boston, with a stop in Palmer, would take a "significant traffic burden off of the Massachusetts Turnpike," the town's letter argues. Local bus service would link rail passengers to destinations in the Quaboag region, the letter says.

And, the letter says, a passenger rail stop in town would invigorate the local economy -- and by extension, the entire state's economy.

The Council letter also refers to a study the Palmer Redevelopment Authority commissioned last year. That study touted a rail station here as a viable option that should be part of a comprehensive vision for state transportation officials to consider.

During an October 2016 community meeting, a planning expert told Palmer residents: "Don't take 'no' for an answer . . . Keep on pushing."

According to the state's draft plan, studies for the Northern New England Intercity Rail Initiative and the Central Corridor both examined the potential for rail service through Palmer.

In a written statement, Rep. Todd Smola, R-Palmer, said on Monday said: "Palmer was a primary hub for passenger rail service in our Commonwealth. There is great potential to restore this service to benefit the community and the entire region. I will be working with local officials and other rail advocates to urge the state to classify a stop in Palmer as a priority in the state rail plan."PALMER - A man shot during a Sunday home invasion on Calkins Road is dead and a search of the home revealed 20 pounds of marijuana and $32,000 in cash, according to the office of Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni.

The deceased was one of the suspects breaking into the home, and it appears he was shot by a homeowner, officials said.

The man, whose name was not yet being released to the press, was pronounced dead at Baystate Wing Hospital in Palmer, where he had been brought by ambulance.

The shooting was reported just before 6 p.m., when Palmer police received a call about someone being shot in a home invasion at 1180 Calkins Road.

A resident of the Calkins Road residence, Dimitri Bryant, 21, is in custody.

He is being charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. Other charges may be pending.

According to Gulluni's office, Bryant was "involved in an incident where the deceased entered the home with what appears to be the intent to commit an armed robbery."

No further information was released about the shooting.

A second man, who police believe may have been an accomplice to the deceased, was arrested a short time later. Samuel Comstock, 39, of Palmer, is being held on outstanding warrants unrelated to the shooting. Police also found an illegal shotgun in the bedroom of his residence during a search.

According to Gulluni's office, the first officers who arrived to secure the scene found a firearm and detected "the overwhelming scent of marijuana."

Police sought and received a district court warrant to search the property and during the search of the house found 20 pounds of marijuana, THC products and packaging materials. They also found $32,875 in cash.

Bryant was arraigned in Palmer District Court on Monday on the marijuana possession charge. He was ordered held in lieu of $10,000 bail. If he makes bail, Bryant will be required to surrender his passport, remain in Massachusetts, report to probation weekly and avoid drugs and alcohol.

The shooting remains under investigation, and additional charges in the case are possible.BEIJING, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- China's financial input in R&D of basic sciences doubled in the past five years from 41.2 billion yuan (about 6.5 billion U.S. dollars) in 2011 to 82.3 billion yuan in 2016, according to the Ministry of Science and Technology Sunday.

The percentage of funding for basic science R&D in the central government's total financial input in science and technology has reached the level of developed countries, said Zhang Xiaoyuan, an official overseeing resource allocation and management at the ministry.

The government currently supports basic science research by either directly giving money to research institutions or allowing them to bid for projects, Zhang said at a press conference.

"Each of the two forms of financial support now makes up about half of the total," said Zhang, adding that financial input from businesses and other forces of the society remains low.

He said the central government will further encourage the participation of local governments and businesses in the implementation of major projects on basic science research in the future and explore means of charity and donation.

The State Council recently released guidelines on strengthening research in basic sciences to lay out basic principles and major arrangements.By Gary Abernathy

Special To The Washington Post

HILLSBORO, Ohio - Some of my favorite childhood memories involve gathering with family members on my aunt's front porch in Lynchburg, Ohio - a smaller town than Hillsboro, about 12 miles west of here - to watch the annual Memorial Day parade.

Typical of small-town parades, the procession would include Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, horseback riders, local politicians tossing candy from their cars to scrambling children, the Lynchburg-Clay High School Marching Band, veterans of the armed forces - many from World War II and Korea - with some carrying rifles, and an honor guard proudly displaying the flag, which would be greeted by salutes or hands over hearts from the onlookers lining the sidewalks.

The parade would wind its way a few blocks around town, ending up at the Lynchburg cemetery, where a speaker would offer remarks on sacrifice and patriotism, a prayer would be recited, and a rifle volley would crack the silence as a bugler played taps.

Afterward, many onlookers would quietly disperse, walking the short distance to their homes for cookouts or potluck dinners, while others lingered behind, placing flowers or flags on the modest headstones marking the final resting place of a beloved family member, then standing a few more minutes in a moment of silent prayer or remembrance, often wiping away a tear.

Americans everywhere appreciate those who serve in the military, but in small towns - where tradition and logistics make parades and other patriotic ceremonies commonplace - such gratitude is perhaps more visibly demonstrated on a regular basis.

Honoring our veterans and the freedoms they have protected on Memorial Day with modest parades in small towns or the humble services that are conducted in cemeteries in almost every town or big city across the nation are open displays of unabashed patriotism, but they are a far cry from the kind of ostentatious, muscle-flexing military review rumbling down Pennsylvania Avenue suggested by President Donald Trump.

The president's critics believe Trump is trying to glorify himself under the guise of honoring our armed forces. I will be more generous to the president by assuming that he merely wants to pay tribute to the men and women serving our nation in uniform, while perhaps reminding our enemies of the power and might of our military.

Through the years, I have watched televised military parades and demonstrations in places such as Russia, China and North Korea, and they have never served to make me more fearful of those nations, and certainly no more respectful. Instead, I have always felt they represented the hollow threats of insecure leaders attempting to bully the world and inflate their own egos. That is not what America does.

In Hillsboro, a Veterans of Foreign Wars-sponsored Memorial Day ceremony is held at a memorial built in 2012 on our courthouse square, with the names of everyone from Highland County who has been killed in combat in our various wars inscribed on a monument. Bricks that were purchased by relatives engraved with the names of others who served in uniform pave the walkway.

Mr. President, if you want to honor our armed forces and pay tribute to all who have served in a meaningful way, I would invite you to come to Hillsboro this May and be our honored guest at our Memorial Day service. You would be embraced, celebrated and appreciated by a community that supported your election and stands behind you still.

You would also send a signal to the rest of the world that America's soldiers and sailors, along with our tanks, fighter jets and weapons, are not deployed indiscriminately for gaudy exhibitions at home, but only when absolutely necessary in the defense of liberty and freedom here and abroad.

Here, we honor our armed forces with the quiet respect that reflects our understanding of the human toll our wars have exacted and the high cost that comes with freedom, rather than with saber-rattling displays of force and intimidation.

Mr. President, you have honored our military by your insistence on funding its needs and by expressing your patriotism through your speeches and remarks. No nation on Earth doubts the military superiority of the United States. Our enemies should know that when they see our tanks, planes and soldiers on the march, it's a rueful day for them, not a showy spectacle for us.



Gary Abernathy, a contributing columnist for The Post, is publisher and editor of the Times-Gazette in Hillsboro, Ohio.

By William Reichelt, mayor of West Springfield

Over the past year, the city - known as the town - of West Springfield has experienced steady growth in economic and business development. The community has seen a healthy surge of new businesses that are robust and diverse to serve our ever-changing economy.

New community partnerships have been created, and the successes are being realized across Western Massachusetts.

The development of new businesses opening across Hampden County is a tremendous assurance that the local economy is getting stronger as the consumer is able to spend more, while still being able to save.

West Springfield has benefited from this type of expansive growth specifically along Memorial Avenue with the opening of Fathers and Sons Audi-Volvo and Volkswagen dealerships, Florence Bank and Chipotle Mexican Grill.

Elsewhere in West Springfield, economic growth is evidenced by opening of a newly renovated Cumberland Farms near the North End Bridge rotary, a brand-new Wendy's restaurant on Riverdale Street and an expanded Freihofer's Bakery Outlet on Route 20.

The city of West Springfield is committed not only to ensuring that our local businesses thrive, but to ensure that the start-up is easy and affordable.

The Home Depot located in West Springfield has been active in partnering with the city and other local organizations to support renovation projects. With their assistance, the American Legion Post 207 building's interior was painted and the floor was stripped and buffed. They renovated the town's war memorial and added military service flags and ground lighting. The Home Depot also built a donation box for non-perishable food items at the Senior Center and donated paint and accessories to the Boys and Girls Club of West Springfield to repaint the exterior of their building. The Boys and Girls Club of West Springfield is also an active member of the community and jointly hosted the first ever Dribble Parade with Florence Bank where thousands of dollars were donated to support programs for members of the club.

The Eastern States Exposition hit an all-time record attendance this year with more than 1.5 million visitors during the 17 days it was open to the public. Patrons were able to find thrills on new rides, try new microbrews at different beer tents and sample new treats including the "Flatliner Burger" created by the West Springfield Lions Club. The burger won the "Best New Eats" award this year, and the sales certainly helped support the Lions Club's mission to serve our community. The Lions Club continues to give back to the community through various sponsorship and events, such as the Veteran's Park of Heroes which honors local veterans while raising scholarship money for students whose parents or grandparents are veterans.

West Springfield has continued to partner with the Irish Cultural Center of New England, a non-profit that relocated to West Springfield and opened its doors to patrons of the community. The cultural center was able to relocate to West Springfield through a long-term lease agreement with the city. Since the grand opening, the Irish Cultural Center has continued to partner with the city to enhance cultural ties to Ireland.

Leadership from the Irish Cultural Center has been working with local officials to establish a sister city relationship with a community in Ireland. This goal was realized this year when I joined a group of local leaders who traveled to Ireland in December to sign the sister city agreement with leaders of Dingle and the county of Kerry. It is anticipated that this relationship will enhance the social, economic, and cultural relationships between our two cities.

The city of West Springfield is looking onward to another year of maintaining its current lucrative and prosperous partnerships while forging new ones. We have many things to look forward to, including continued economic growth and development.

West Springfield prides itself on maintaining a diverse business and economic culture. We will continue to ensure that diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of our economic and business growth.

William Reichelt is mayor of West Springfield. To learn more about West Springfield, visit the website, townofwestspringfield.org.BOSTON -- A Massachusetts Senate committee has released a bill that reads like a wish-list for clean energy advocates.

The bill sets more ambitious environmental and regulatory standards, bans fracking in Massachusetts, prohibits residents from being taxed for new natural gas pipelines, eliminates a cap on reimbursements for solar projects and sets the stage for carbon pricing.

"We believe this act, if it is enacted, will protect our public health here in the commonwealth, create literally thousands upon thousands of new jobs in the commonwealth and reduce greenhouse gas emissions substantially," said Sen. Marc Pacheco, D-Taunton, chairman of the Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change.

The bill will now go to the Senate Ways and Means Committee before it can get a vote from the Senate or the House. While it is unlikely to be passed as is, the bill could set the stage for discussions on issues related to clean energy in the Legislature.

The legislation incorporates several bills that have been discussed by House and Senate committees. "This is not a standalone bill dreamt up in the middle of the night by the Senate," Pacheco said.

It includes a host of policies that would promote clean energy while avoiding new natural gas infrastructure.

The bill would prevent the construction of any new natural gas pipelines and prohibit a tax on ratepayers to pay for pipelines. It would require gas companies to repair existing infrastructure to prevent leaks.

Clean energy advocates have been pushing for the implementation of a carbon tax, where residents and businesses pay for the amount of energy they use. The Senate bill would require state officials to implement some form of a market-based system by between 2020 and 2022, depending on the sector of the economy.

The bill would increase the use of solar energy by lifting a cap on reimbursements for people who generate solar energy and return it to the grid. It would make it easier for low-income residents and renters to take advantage of these credits. The bill would increase wind energy by allowing the state to purchase more energy from offshore wind and hydropower.

It would require the state's pension board to divest from fossil fuel companies.

It sets higher standards for a range of measures that would require businesses, utilities and the state to use more renewable energy.

There are also steps to expand the use of electric vehicles.

The goal would be to have Massachusetts use all renewable energy by 2050.

Sen. Jamie Eldridge, D-Acton, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change, called it "the boldest, most visionary clean energy bill in 10 years."

Environmental and renewable energy groups praised the bill.

Northeast Clean Energy Council President Peter Rothstein said, "NECEC endorses action by the Legislature this session to ensure that the Commonwealth's clean energy economy stays on track, especially in light of mounting headwinds at the federal and state level causing project delays and decelerating growth." Rothstein said the council supports raising the standards for how much energy must be produced by renewable energy, lifting solar net metering caps and fixing the way utilities charge solar customers.

Emily Norton, Massachusetts director of the Sierra Club, said, "This bill is appropriately ambitious and comprehensive, matching the urgency of climate change."

"This comprehensive bill should become law as soon as possible," said Eric Wilkinson, the Environmental League of Massachusetts' general counsel and director of energy policy. "With the federal government turning its back on climate change, it is up to the states to lead the way and this bill does just that."The first time Ellen's boyfriend physically assaulted her, he pushed her down on a bed, got on top of her and started strangling her, she says. When she started to scream, he covered her mouth and nose to silence her.

He was just over 6 feet tall and weighed 240 pounds. She was 5 feet 4 inches tall and 105 pounds.

He assaulted her the night before their wedding, and the physical abuse continued once they got married. She stayed with him for three years.

"I felt that... something could change, and I could make it change," she said.

Ellen's story is one of domestic violence -- and how one woman escaped from abuse.

It is also a story being told in a three-minute online video ad by Republican U.S. Senate candidate John Kingston, whom Ellen credits with helping her.

Ellen spoke to a reporter in Boston at a meeting arranged by the Kingston campaign. The Republican/MassLive.com does not identify victims of domestic violence, and Ellen asked that her real name not be used.

Kingston is one of several Republicans challenging Democratic U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren.

Ellen, now 52, grew up on the South Shore and got married in 2000.

She has a successful career in the financial industry. She worried that if she disobeyed her husband or tried to leave, it would hurt her career. The man threatened to make a scene at her workplace and tell her employer there was something wrong with her.

"You're living in terror every day," Ellen said, describing her marriage.

In 2003, she had been working for Affiliated Managers Group, an investment management company, for only a few months. She worked for Kingston, the company's general counsel.

By that point, Ellen feared for her life. Her husband watched her constantly. Each morning, she would call her sister and hang up without talking, so her sister would know she was safe. Ellen decided she was willing to give up her career to escape.

She began going to a women's shelter in Salem on her lunch break, where staff helped her develop a plan to leave safely. For example, they had her talk to local police and tell them what was happening and where she was going.

Ellen got to the point where she had to tell her immediate boss, who informed Kingston. Ellen said she worried her husband might show up at the company, and he could be dangerous.

Kingston immediately tried to help, she said. He accompanied her to the shelter. He formulated a plan for the company to cover for her. He checked in with her. He gave a picture of her husband to the company groundskeeper.

Kingston said he was "devastated" hearing her story. "You would want to do anything you could possibly do in your power," Kingston said. "You think what can I do to be part of the solution... Let's see if we can figure this out together."

Ellen left with her clothes, her car, some personal items and $200.

Her last day at work, Kingston gave her a check from his and his wife's personal account.

A friend of Ellen's sister friend found Ellen a place to live in a small, out-of-the-way house in another state.

Kingston convinced his company to let Ellen work remotely as a consultant, with good pay. She continued to work remotely for more than a year, until her divorce was settled. Then, she returned to Affiliated Managers Group.

Kingston and his wife threw her a party.

"People who work for me, I feel like they're part of a family," Kingston said.

Today, Ellen has been happily married for 11 years. She lives on the North Shore and holds another job in the financial industry.

Ellen donated to Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney's 2008 and 2012 campaigns and to Kingston's campaign, but she is not otherwise involved in GOP politics.

When Kingston asked her to record an ad for him eight months ago, she agreed immediately. Ellen and Kingston said the footage was recorded before the #metoo campaign, in which several high-profile cases of sexual assault inspired women to reveal they were victims of sexual harassment or assault.

"He's a genuine person, the way he deals with people," Ellen said. "He's very collaborative and kind... I felt he was a great, great person to do this and to run for (Senate) because he's honest, he is collaborative, genuine and not someone who's going to be aggressive."

"It stands out to me that he talks to you, and he's actually talking to you and wants to know your story, no matter who you are," Ellen said.

If she had not been working for Kingston when she decided to escape, Ellen said, she believes the outcome would have been different. She would have had no income and fewer career prospects, since she would have had to explain why she left her previous job so quickly.

"I highly doubt another person, for whom I worked for so little time initially, would have, along with his wife, invested in me," Ellen said.

Kingston praised Ellen's courage and said Ellen's story highlights a theme of his campaign.

"The theme of what I'm trying to do in running this cycle is to get back to things that are not about a Republican perspective or Democratic perspective but are about taking care of people, whatever the challenges are, and this was a profound challenge," Kingston said. "What happened to (Ellen) isn't a Democratic issue, isn't a Republican issue, it's a human being issue."Over the last four decades, George Gilder has been one of the most influential writers on economic growth and prosperity, and technologys key creative role in them. In 1981 Gilders book, Wealth and Poverty, hit all the bestseller lists and helped define the "supply-side," low-tax economic revolution that characterized the eight years of Ronald Reagans presidency. Reagan himself frequently cited Wealth and Poverty. In the late 1980s Gilder turned his attention to technology and wrote several books predicting techs future impact, including Microcosm (1989), Life After Television (1990), Telecosm (2000) and The Silicon Eye (2006), as well as The Scandal of Money (2009). Gilder is presently wrapping up his next book, Life After Google, which will publish later this year.

Rich Karlgaard , FORBES STAFF

I celebrate innovation and growth.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/richkarlgaard/2018/02/09/why-technology-prophet-george-gilder-predicts-big-techs-disruption/#6c43ded52d21Since 2011, SteelHouse CEO Mark Douglas has had two policies that have transformed the way his company operates.

Not only do employees at the marketing and advertising company get $2,000 a year to put toward any vacation of their choosing, but the entire company takes a 3-day weekend every month, which Douglas branded "SteelHouse Days."

Chris Weller

http://www.businessinsider.com/steelhouse-ceo-explains-why-paid-vacation-policy-is-good-business-2018-2/#the-time-off-gives-people-a-chance-to-rechargeMontana earned an "A" in both financial assets and income as well as education, up from "B" grades in 2017. The state also ranked first in the nation for its high small business ownership, around 2 percent.

By KULR-8 News Staff

http://www.kulr8.com/story/37483922/study-montana-6th-most-prosperous-state

***

Choose Montana

The Montana Governors Office of Economic Development is the states lead organization to help businesses succeed in our state. http://business.mt.gov/Eight years ago, Missoula entrepreneur and video blogger Hank Green and his brother, John Green, founded VidCon http://vidcon.com/ , which is now billed as the largest conference in the world dedicated to people who love internet video and creating content for sites like YouTube.

Every year, more than 30,000 people attend the flagship VidCon show in Anaheim, California. Two other international conferences in Amsterdam and Melbourne, Australia, also draw thousands.

The events are still organized by a staff of 17 people in Missoula and several out-of-state employees. But last week, Green announced that VidCon was being purchased by the global entertainment company Viacom http://www.viacom.com/

"Well keep our staff the way it is. We want to expand our vision around the world, but the staffing in Missoula will stay here."

DAVID ERICKSON [email protected]

http://ravallirepublic.com/news/state-and-regional/article_928d180f-9270-5f3f-bbad-ef62baac6602.html#tracking-source=home-the-latestCould a trip down the vibrant Higgins Avenue for some shopping and a meal convince a prospective college student to choose Missoula over, say, Bozeman?

The University of Montanas enrollment has dropped by roughly a quarter since 2011, which has been bad not only for the institution but also for the local economy. A new partnership, spearheaded by UMs Office of Undergraduate Admissions, is trying to use the allure and charm of the citys historic and thriving downtown as a way to convince prospective students to enroll in college here. They have enlisted the help of the Missoula Downtown Association, which represents hundreds of local businesses.

DAVID ERICKSON [email protected]

http://missoulian.com/business/missoula-downtown-association-looks-to-partner-with-um-to-boost/article_5e7ff552-19fa-54b0-97a9-778caf3c2aa0.htmlWebb Fontaine (www.WebbFontaine.com), a leading provider of solutions for Trade facilitation powered by Artificial Intelligence and the latest generation of advanced IT systems, will host a webinar to examine the progress of the regions Trade and Customs sector.

Held under the title Technology and Trade in the Middle East: Challenges & Opportunities the expansive online event will discuss in detail the key areas impacting this hugely important industry and its effect on national and regional economies.

Offering an in-depth and strategic approach to this far-reaching topic, the webinar, which will take place on 14 September at 2pm GST, will focus on three carefully selected talking points:

The current situation of Middle East import and export and the prospective growth

The role technology has to play in the growth and development of Trade in the region

The opportunities and challenges facing Trade in the region and the importance of technology

The role technology has to play in the growth and development of Trade in the region

The need for a greater drive towards digital transformation across the regions Trade and Customs industry has been accelerated due to the pandemic and the myriad ways in which businesses have been forced to adapt.

The process of digital transformation has been changing and shaping the face of economic and social development around the world. The pandemic has accelerated this phenomenon in ways and to an extent that could not have been imagined only a year ago. Digital trade, as part of that process, has acquired increasing importance with expanding opportunities for businesses and governments in the middle eastern countries.

The webinar will look at how advanced services, including Single Window systems, have been hugely successful in speeding up border processes, keeping regional Trade moving and empowering an ever-greater use of e-commerce and virtual checks to avoid time consuming bottle necks at hubs and allowing for the swift one-stop-shop processing of goods.

The opportunities and challenges facing Trade in the region and the importance of technology

The Trade and Customs sector is poised to emerge stronger from the disruption caused by COVID-19, with countries and entities demonstrating impressive agility to ensure essential lines of supply are maintained. The webinar will discuss how a commitment to digital solutions can fast-track recovery and herald a new and more efficient approach to Trade on a regional and global scale.

Among the topics the webinars panel will unpack, will be the continuation of investment in digital systems and advanced technologies and who, whether within the industry or in government, will sponsor a continuation of these ambitions.

Alioune Ciss, Webb Fontaines CEO, said: Webb Fontaines Technology, Digitalisation and Trade in the Middle East webinar will bring together some of the Trade and Customs industrys most respected leaders, experienced thinkers and innovators to examine some of the key issues impacting the sector around the region. The last two years have been an unprecedented time, with the industry undergoing major and often dramatic upheaval brought about by a rapid drive toward digital solutions in reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic. The insights, opinions, ideas and advice offered during these webinars will help to inspire and shape decisions that will be felt at the very heart of our industry for years to come.

The Technology and Trade in the Middle East webinar will be broadcast September 14 register on the following link: https://apo-opa.com/webbpub2.

These thought-provoking webinars form part of what is intended to be a larger ThinkTank series aimed at delivering impactful insights thereby allowing stakeholders and consumers to engage in knowledge-sharing as well as in delivering concrete business strategies.BEIJING, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli pledged Sunday the country will adopt the strictest punishments and the most rigorous standards to ensure food safety.

Zhang, also head of the State Council's food safety commission, made the remarks at a plenary meeting of the commission.

Wang Yang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and deputy head of the commission, attended the meeting.

Zhang required efforts to modernize the systems and capacity for food safety administration, stressing that both the production and supervision processes need to be strengthened.

The responsibilities of manufacturers and operators in food industry must be observed and supervision measures such as checks, inspections, investigations, and information disclosure should be made good use of to ensure that every process related to food safety is under strict scrutiny, Zhang said.

He said efforts should be made to strengthen soil pollution prevention and treatment, and implement standardization of agricultural production, to promote high-quality development of food industry.

While stressing law enforcement, the vice premier also noted the importance to enhance ethics to create a culture for food safety in society.

Noting that the CPC Central Committee and the State Council attach great importance to food safety work, Zhang said related work has yielded significant achievements and the food safety situation has stayed generally stable over the past five years.

He said both the Party and governmental authorities should do their share in food safety work.

Wang said the standards system for food safety should be improved and supervision should be enhanced at grassroots levels.

Wang also called for better industrial self-discipline, greater public supervision, and deepened supply-side structural reform in the sector to promote the high-quality development of related industries and to ensure more safe, nutritious, and healthy foods for the people.

Sunday's meeting discussed the focuses of the commission's work in 2018 and the arrangements for related work during the upcoming Spring Festival and "two sessions" periods.China to seek proper solution to peninsula issue: state councilor

The visit of China's top diplomat to the US reflects China's concerns over the escalation of Sino-US friction on trade and the current situation on the Korean Peninsula, and shows China is actively safeguarding bilateral ties under the circumstances, experts said.

Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi's visit has allowed the two sides to discuss bilateral ties and important international and regional issues of mutual concern, said foreign ministry spokesperson Lu Kang, who accompanied Yang in Washington DC on Saturday, the Xinhua News Agency reported.

Yang said during meetings with US officials that China and the US could properly address bilateral trade through the two-way opening of markets, and "make a bigger cake of cooperation," the report said. Yang visited the US from Thursday to Friday, and met US President Donald Trump on Friday.

Trade negotiations and pushing forward Sino-US relations topped Yang's agenda, Wu Xinbo, director of Fudan University's Center for American Studies in Shanghai, told the Global Times on Sunday.

Yang's visit reflects China's concerns over a possible trade war with the US after Washington recently increased pressure on Beijing, said Shi Yinhong, director of the Center for American Studies at Renmin University of China.

He noted that this also shows China is actively pushing forward bilateral ties.

During Yang's visit, the US agreed that China-US trade ties are significant, saying it is willing to work with China to fortify and seek to solve bilateral economic and trade issues in a more effective manner, Xinhua reported.

However, the Trump administration in January approved a 30 percent tariff on imported solar panel components, with the rate declining over the next four years. Imported washing machines will also be subject to as much as 50 percent in tariffs for the next three years, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer announced in January.

Industry insiders have interpreted the move as targeting China, as the country has been the biggest source of solar components to the US for years.

"We oppose the US' unilateral and protectionist approach and hope the country can deal with it prudently," Commerce Ministry spokesman Gao Feng said after the US move, adding that "we will carry out trade remedies strictly in accordance with WTO rules and relevant Chinese laws."

Trump has to behave aggressively to show he is determined to protect US jobs and his country's economy, but fractious Sino-US economic relations will bring more harm to both countries and their peoples, said Bai Ming, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation.

Not US' wish

During talks with US officials, Yang also stressed China's commitment to the denuclearization of the peninsula, peace and stability, and the ultimate settlement of disputes through dialogue and consultations.

The situation on the peninsula is improving after North Korea's top leader Kim Jong-un invited South Korean President Moon Jae-in to Pyongyang, a situation which does not fit into the US' wishes, Wu said.

"We're going to make it crystal clear that our military, the Japanese self-defense forces, our allies here in South Korea, all of our allies across the region, are fully prepared to defend our nations and to take whatever action is necessary to defend our homeland," US Vice President Mike Pence said in a Friday interview, the Yonhap News Agency reported.

The US still did not realize its previous policy on the peninsula situation has failed because the interaction between North and South Korea is the main solution right now, Wu said.

He added that the US may not give up and will continue to take measures to provoke the already easing peninsula tensions.

Beijing is ready to maintain communication and coordination with Washington on the basis of mutual trust and respect, so as to seek a proper solution to the peninsula issue, Yang said.

China has long been actively urging relevant parties on this issue to calm down and hold dialogues, but there's little China can do aside from that, Wu added.Visitors view dog-shaped lanterns at Confucius Temple scenic zone in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, Feb. 11, 2018. The 32nd Qinhuai Lantern Festival here, displaying over 234 sets of lanterns, will officially meet the public between Feb. 16 and March 5. (Xinhua/Yang Suping)

Visitors view lanterns at Confucius Temple scenic zone in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, Feb. 11, 2018. The 32nd Qinhuai Lantern Festival here, displaying over 234 sets of lanterns, will officially meet the public between Feb. 16 and March 5. (Xinhua/Su Yang)In April last year, my wife Monica and I installed a solar photovoltaic generating system at our home in St Joseph, tied to the Barbados Light & Power grid. We sell all the electricity we generate to BL&P, and we buy all the power we need from them, as we always have. At the end of the month we usually have a small balance in our favour. We have power day and night, whether its sunny or overcast, and our monthly electricity bill is zero. The price we paid for our system was about the same as the value of our Toyota motor car. In effect, the price of solar PV systems has fallen to a level that if you own a car, you can afford install a system that meets your needs.

That was not the case as recently as 10 years ago. What has made the difference is the entry of Chinese producers of solar PV panels into the international market, which rapidly increased production by several orders of magnitude. As everyone knows, if you produce on a massive scale, the costs of each unit you sell can be lower than for producers that have smaller production capacity. Until Chinese producers entered the market, Germany was the main market for solar PV panels, because the German government, along with some Scandanavian countries, provided generous tax relief and rebates to encourage the purchase of PV panels. With only the relatively small German market to depend on, production facilities were relatively small, and the price for panels was relatively high, putting the cost of a system for domestic use beyond the reach of people like myself. That all changed when the Chinese government made a major commitment to the expansion of solar PV generation as part of Chinas push to diversify the Chinese economy away from fossil fuels. This immediately created a vastly expanded demand for PV, because of the enormous size of the Chinese market. That in turn was an incentive for Chinese companies to ramp up production on a massive scale, with the resulting fall in the price of each unit.

Here is an example of a virtuous economic cycle. China makes a decision, mainly in the best interests of their own environment and economy, to produce solar PV panels on a large scale. That reduces the selling prices of panels by so much that, not only do Chinese consumers benefit, but many people in the rest of the world, including Barbados, are now able to afford a system which was previously beyond our means. This is a practical illustration of the benefits of trade between nations, and it also demonstrates how China benefits the Caribbean, along with all other countries in the international trading system, by making more affordable products widely available.

The growth of Chinese industrial capacity has been a worldwide benefit

The most important event in the global economy in the 21st century has been the addition of 400 million Chinese industrial workers to the worlds labour force. That is the implication of Chinas industrial revolution. Surprisingly, Western economies did not see the Chinese juggernaut coming. And economists in the West have been slow to recognise the full implications for the world economy, which are evident from the available economic indicators. Without Chinas manufacturing output over the last three decades, the world economy would now be very much smaller, with fewer goods and services available to all. That has been of immense benefit to the Chinese workers who produce these goods; they have moved from lives of rural poverty to the security and promise of the middle class. Equally, it has been of great benefit to consumers in China and in the rest of the world, because the goods and services produced have been exported to the rest of the world, as well as consumed in China. The reason China has been so successful at exporting is that they are able to sell products that give better value for money than similar products from other sources. We buy Chinese products because our money goes further when we do. Americans, Europeans and people from other large diversified economies should welcome Chinese exports to their countries for that reason. They can buy local motor cars, cell phones and printing services, but they choose to buy Chinese products instead because that enables them to have a somewhat better lifestyle. Like Germany, Japan and Korea in earlier decades, Chinese products at first had a dubious reputation, but with the maturing of their industrial processes Chinese products can now hold their own on quality with the industrial world.

The concern in the US, Europe and elsewhere about the Chinese trade surplus is entirely misplaced. By importing cheaper Chinese products and services that are nowadays every bit as good as they produce at home, Americans and Europeans are improving their lifestyles. What is more, the money that China earns from its export surplus is mostly invested in the US and Europe, which is an additional potential benefit to these industrial countries. The demise of the sunset industries in rich countries, and the attendant loss of jobs, is the result of new technologies and slow growth of labour productivity in these industries, which means that their labour costs are way higher than those in emerging markets which use the same modern technology, but pay much lower wages.BEIJING, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- The English translations of three Chinese children's books were listed on the 2018 Outstanding International Books list (OIB) by the United States Board on Books for Young People (USBBY).

"Little Rabbit's Questions," one of the three books, was written and illustrated by Gan Dayong, translated by Helen Wang and published by Candied Plums, which was co-founded by China Educational Publications Import and Export Corporation Ltd. and Paper Republic Llc.

It features a little rabbit who is full of questions, and his mom answers him in a way that makes him feel safe and be loved. The illustrations are in soft-colored traditional Chinese brush painting style.

The other two books were written by Cao Wenxuan, winner of the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2016.

"Bronze and Sunflower," translated by Helen Wang, illustrated by Meilo So, and published by Candlewick Press, tells the story of a mute boy who begs his family to take an orphan into their home.

"Feather," translated by Chloe Garcia Roberts, illustrated by Roger Mello, and published by Elsewhere Editions, depicts a feather traveling far and wide to seek its owner.

This year the OIB committee selected 38 titles published in various countries around the world. These books help young readers understand cultural, ethnic, and geographical differences and similarities.

The USBBY has been publishing its annual OIB list since 2006. Each year, books are selected by a committee appointed from the membership of the USBBY, the U.S. section of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY).Advertisement

About Heart Defects and Dementia

The research team found that the risk of dementia from any cause, including vascular dementia, Alzheimer's disease , and others, in those born with heart defects was 60 percent higher than the general population.The risk of early-onset dementia increased by 2.6 times (160 percent) before 65 years and the risk of dementia increased by 30 percent after 65 years.The researchers examined individuals with heart defects over time to see the association between being born with a heart defect and developing dementia in later life. Though the research team found an association between heart defects and dementia, the study does not mean that every person who was born with a heart defect will develop dementia. The study observed a higher risk of dementia, however, it did not prove cause and effect."Our study involved an older population born when treatments for heart defects were more limited. Modern treatment has improved greatly, and as a result, we can't directly generalize these results to children born today. We need further work to understand the risks in the modern era," said Bagge, lead author of the study.People born with heart defects are at a higher risk for developing other heart disease risk factors such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and diabetes. These risk factors which are common in people born with heart defects have also been shown to independently increase the risk of dementia."While we must be careful to appreciate these findings within the limitations of the study design, continued study of this association may yield important clinical screening and medical management strategies in the future, and there may even be opportunities discovered to aid in the prevention of dementia in this population," said Nicolas L. Madsen, M.D., M.P.H., senior author of the study and assistant professor of pediatrics at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.Heart defects are the most common type of congenital disability, affecting the structure of the heart. The defect can involve walls of the heart, valves, arteries, and veins near the heart. These defects can disrupt normal blood flow through the heart, or the blood flow can go in the wrong direction or be blocked completely.Dementia, a neurological disorder is a prevalent problem among the elderly population. The number of dementia cases is expected to double every 20 years, resulting in 81.1 million cases in 2040. Dementia is a progressive impairment of the brain function, which can lead to an eventual loss of the ability to perform daily tasks. People with dementia have problems with memory, reasoning, and behavior.A 2017 study inshowed that problems in the vascular system (the heart and blood vessels that supply blood to the brain) could contribute to the development of dementia.Source: MedindiaAdvertisement

Sarah A. Budischak, Aprilianto E. Wiria, Firdaus Hamid, Linda J. Wammes, Maria M. M. Kaisar, Lisette van Lieshout, Erliyani Sartono, Taniawati Supali, Maria Yazdanbakhsh, Andrea L. Graham. Competing for blood: the ecology of parasite resource competition in human malaria-helminth co-infections, Ecology Letters (2018) .DOI: 10.1111/ele.12919

By taking competition for red blood cells into account, she and her colleagues revealed thatIn other words,"Whether and how infections interact has important implications for human health and disease spread," said Budischak, a postdoctoral researcher in Graham's lab who is the first author on the paper.Malaria and soil-transmitted worm infections remain two of the most common and co-occurring types of human infectious diseases, but if and how they interact is a longstanding debate, Budischak said. Using their ecological expertise, she and Graham were able to solve this, the oxygen-carrying workforce of the human circulatory system.The key to uncovering this strong but hidden effect was changing perspectives, Graham said. The immunologists were looking from a top-down view, focusing on how the immune system attacked the different parasites. That's like looking at the Serengeti and thinking lions determine the populations of herbivores like zebras and wildebeests. That's true in some cases -- but more often, both predators and food availability are important."Malaria parasites are ecologically in a similar position to those herbivores," Graham said. "They're depending on resources below them on the food chain -- for herbivores, it's the greenery, for malaria parasites it's the red blood cells -- and then all of them are subject to predation from above. For herbivores it's predators like lions, for parasites, it's the immune system." Worms are in a similar position in the food chain: they are at risk from immunological "predators," and hookworms eat red blood cells (though other worms instead eat food within the host's belly). Because only some worms compete with malaria parasites for red blood cells, this study highlights the importance of distinguishing among parasite species in terms of how they function and which resources they use."Of particular interest in this study is that it is the application of ecological thinking that has enabled the elucidation of the helminth [hookworm]-malaria relationship," said Joanne Lello, a senior lecturer in biosciences at Cardiff University who was not involved in the research. "If resource competition had not been considered, helminths would continue to be treated as a single group, and the relationship between these parasites might never have been clarified. The wider implication of this work is therefore in its promotion of ecological thinking and approaches in the field of medical research."Just like other animals, some disease-causing species are better competitors than others. The bloodsucking hookworms outcompete one species of malaria, Plasmodium vivax. Interestingly, the other species of malaria, P. falciparum, can outcompete hookworms, especially when they are newly infecting a previously dewormed individual.The ecologists determined that the difference in the reaction to deworming is a function of how "picky" the malaria species are. "If the hookworms are reducing the number of red blood cells that are around, the vivax, which is pickier in which red blood cells it can use, just doesn't have enough to replicate as quickly," Budischak said. "But the falciparum, which use any red blood cell around, can find enough red blood cells to replicate. So the worms slow down the vivax because it's a really finicky eater, whereas the falciparum, which will eat anything, outcompetes the worms."Previous studies had missed this competitive hierarchy because all malaria and worm species were lumped together. Graham and Budischak's focus on species resource needs was key to sorting the data and discovering that deworming allows vivax malaria populations to increase by as much as three times."Although deworming may still provide net health benefits to this human population, our study suggests it has the potential to exacerbate the severity of some malaria infections," said Budischak."If you mass administer deworming pills, you risk making individuals who have vivax malaria hiding in their blood cells sicker -- and you also might make the mosquitos more likely to pick up malaria and pass it on from those individuals," said Graham. "So, if logistics and cost permit it, we would advise a 'test and treat' policy, where you tailor what you do to your patient. If it's a child, who's got a lot of worms, definitely deworm. But if it's a kid with a light worm burden, then we'd suggest weighing in the malaria risk -- in the neighborhood, in that season of the year. Is deworming worth the malaria risk? Weigh up the costs and benefits."Graham met one of the principal researchers on the Indonesian clinical deworming trial, Maria Yazdanbakhsh, at a conference in Brazil that Graham co-organized three years ago. Graham recalled Yazdanbakhsh and her collaborator Erliyani Sartono, parasitologists from the Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands, coming up afterward to discuss their clinical trial that might just have the data necessary to address this disease interaction question. Graham, Sartono, and Yazdanbakhsh decided to put their heads together, and this study is the fruit of their collaboration.Graham had spent years testing her theories in mice. "In mouse experiments, you can control the dose and the timing of interaction between malaria and worms," she said. "Repeatedly, in the mice, we saw that red blood cell competition, rather than the immune response, seems best to explain the outcome of worm-malaria co-infection. So this [collaboration] allows us to ask, 'Wow, this resource competition that we observed in the mouse system, can we also observe it in humans?'"Graham and Budischak hope that their discovery encourages more public health researchers to collaborate with ecologists. "Infectious disease clinicians don't necessarily realize that they might learn something from ecologists," said Graham. "But ecologists, coming in laterally into a clinical trial context -- thinking holistically about what is regulating the size of the malaria population inside a person's body -- were able to make more sense of the health outcomes than the more standard, immunological-based approach."Source: EurekalertAdvertisement

Mayor Sovan Chatterjee said about 28 people suffering from diarrhea were admitted to Baghajatin State General Hospital since last night and number of admission has not been increased.The Mayor, who visited the affected wards on Sunday morning, said that around 260-270 people were brought to the Baghajatin hospital.Dismissing complaints that contamination of drinking water led to the outbreak of the disease in the areas, Chatterjee said: "We have collected samples from 82 places so far to understand the cause of outbreak. It is also found that all in a family drinking the same water were not ill. The problem has been arrested in a greater extent.""We are, however, conducting a complete check of the distribution system," he added.Source: IANSAdvertisement

Rectal prolapse affects about 2 out of every 100,000 people, and about two-thirds of them have chronic constipation. said ASCRS. It is very common among women who are over the age of 50. However, it can occur even in younger adults and children as well.The exact cause of the condition is unknown, but specific factors like relaxed muscles of the anal sphincter, previous injury to the anal or pelvic areas, damage to the nerves in the rectal area; chronic constipation, and infections with intestinal worms.The man told the doctors that he was playing games on the mobile while trying to have a bowel movement for more than half an hour. However, he had previously experienced rectal prolapse in the past (since he was four years old) and the rectum had retracted to its normal position. Doctors performed a surgery to treat his condition.The following steps to prevent rectal prolapse are recommended by the hospital's Professor Ren:1. Individuals suffering from constipation should consume more fruit and vegetables and avoid straining too hard while defecating. Also, reading books or using phones need to be avoided.2. People suffering from diarrhea or enteritis (inflammation of the intestine) should seek treatment immediately, especially young children.3. Older adults who may have weak sphincter muscles should perform Kegel exercises twice a day.4. Individuals need to early treatment for illnesses that exert pressure on the abdomen, such as whooping cough, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Source: MedindiaAdvertisement

The international research team presents results obtained 42 months after a mass drug administration treatment in Lihir Island, Papua New Guinea, where 84 percent of the population received one single dose of azithromycin. A clinical, serological and molecular follow-up was performed to detect active yaws cases (i.e. ulcers where the presence of the causal agent, Treponema pallidum pertenue, was confirmed by DNA amplification).The results show a steep decline in disease prevalence after 18 months of treatment, but a re-emergence after 24 months and an increase to 0.4 percent after 42 months. Most cases were individuals that were absent at the time of treatment, although there were also imported cases from other regions."Our study underlines the need to treat every individual living in an endemic zone, in order to cure latent infections. Therefore, yaws could be eliminated with repeated rounds of mass treatments" explains the ISGlobal researcher and physician at the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona.For the first time, the authors identified five T. p. pertenue infections that were resistant to azithromycin as a result of a mutation identified by laboratory techniques in Seattle, USA. The five children lived in the same village and were relatives or friends, indicating that they were infected by the same resistant strain. They were cured only after a penicillin benzathine injection." explains ISGlobal General Director Antoni Plasencia.The new 24-month project that Mitja's team will launch next April in the province of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea aims to identify how many rounds of mass treatment are necessary to achieve yaws elimination and will reach a total of 50,000 people. The results will help the WHO elaborate action guidelines for the governments of affected countries.Source: EurekalertBeyond the Mountains was recently screened as the first documentary film reflecting the hard and bitter process of resettling and shaking off poverty in rural China, Peoples Daily reported on Feb. 11.

Daqi Village, one of 2,760 extremely poor villages in southwest Chinas Guizhou province, is situated on top of a mountain with no connecting road to the outside. Lack of access to transportation once brought inconvenience to local villagers and hindered poverty alleviation efforts, but as of October 2017, a total of 400 villagers have resettled in urban area and 456 have shaken off poverty.

From 2016 to the end of 2017, Jiao Bo, a well-known photographer and director, recorded the problems and progress on the way of shaking off poverty in the village. In the film, the young generation expressed their demand for easier access to roads, medical service, better education, and jobs, while the elder were reluctant to leave a place they have called home for decades. With official support for poverty alleviation, a village cadre is determined to lead their fellow villagers to a well-off society against whatever obstacles. Finally, more than two decades efforts have paid off, and a large number of villagers have gone beyond the mountains to lead a happy life at their new residence.

Out of more than 4,000 hours of raw video material, the director filtered an unvarnished and affectionate portrayal of the lives of the villagers and the village cadre in a remote mountain village. No one in the film is a professional actor and every frame is a real record of how they strived to leave the mountains and poverty.

Beyond the Mountains is the first documentary on the theme of alleviating poverty by resettling residents from rural to urban areas. The director Jiao Bo is well-known for his photographs and video footage of his parents that provide insight into the lives of two elderly people in the Chinese countryside.Foreign couriers recently started serving customers in Shanghai after most of the deliverymen went back to their hometowns for the Spring Festival, Chinanews.com reported Monday.

Eighty foreign students in China have been recruited by a special delivery program initiated by Chinas e-commerce platform Suning. The platform has signed cooperative agreements with colleges, offering internship and chances of social practice for the students.

According to an employee of Suning, the foreign couriers are required to send New Year greetings to the customers in Shanghai dialect, and they have to understand the do and donts about the Spring Festival.

Two brothers from Zambia surnamed Baitong and Weimo, studying respectively in Shanghai and Beijing, are currently part of the program. I feel very special about this experience, since it presents me the authentic taste of the Chinese New Year, said Weimo.

We also hope to offer a whole new experience for the customers during the most important Chinese festival, the employee of Suning said.[File Photo: Researchers of the stealth drone]

Chinas top aircraft research center on Monday announced the successful test flight of the countrys newest stealth drone, a long-endurance unmanned aircraft that can fly under the radar.

According to a WeChat account affiliated with China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC), the main contractor and research center for the Chinese program, the stealth drone, dubbed Tianying, successfully conducted three test flights, four years after the drone program was first initiated.

Eighty percent of our drones technologies are the newest and most advanced, some of which are leading the global [drone] industry, Ma Hongzhong, chief designer of the Tianying stealth drone, was quoted as saying by the WeChat account.

Ma noted that the all advanced technologies used on the drone have gone through countless ground tests, while all design parameters have been thoroughly calculated and double-checked.

The WeChat account did not reveal further details of the new drone, nor post any pictures of it as of press time.

China successfully flew its first stealth drone in 2013. The maiden flight of Sharp Sword made China the fourth global power to put a stealth drone into the sky after the U.S., UK, EU.[File photo]

A pastor suspected of sexually assaulting two Chinese exchange students at a Southern California motel was released on bail on Monday after he surrendered to local authorities, without pleading guilty.

According to Chinese news portal haiwainet.cn, Douglas Rivera, a 40-year-old pastor, has paid a bail of $100,000 and left the local police station. The suspect was accused of watching two underage Chinese girls through their motel window, performing sex acts on himself, and then breaking into their room to assault one of the girls.

As of press time, the girls parents have already been informed of the incident, while Rivera proclaimed his innocence on his Instagram account, saying that he was at the wrong place at the wrong time.

The incident has enraged internet users in China, who called for more protection of underage Chinese exchange students in the U.S., as their lack of language proficiency and knowledge of the local environment could make them easy targets for perpetrators.

According to reports, the victim is only 13 and can hardly speak English. She may bear a dream to see a different culture and country, but sadly it ended in assault. As more and more young Chinese students go to the U.S. to continue their study, the U.S. government should do more to take care of our kids, a netizen wrote on Sina Weibo.

U.S. and Canada are major destinations for Chinese students who study abroad, especially for teenagers. According to NBC News, around two in five international students enrolled in American high schools are from China, and the total number of students from China rose by 48 percent between 2013 and 2016.Recently, reports have surfaced that Chinese travelers at a World Duty Free shop at Heathrow Airport in London have been treated unfairly, sparking fierce outrage on social media.

The controversy revolves around allegations that a shop run by the World Duty Free, the largest travel retailer in the United Kingdom, at Heathrow Airport Terminal 2, had raised the minimum purchase price for Chinese travelers to enjoy discounts.

Chinese travelers had to spend 1,000 pounds to receive a VIP voucher for 20 percent off a future shopping trip at the store, whereas customers of other nationalities could get the same coupon after spending 250 pounds.

CGTN reported that the unfair treatment came to light on Saturday, when a firsthand account was published by a Weibo user and then shared by an online magazine on Weibo and instant messaging app WeChat.

The part-time employee at the shop said he witnessed how Chinese travelers were treated unfairly, but did not learn about the policy until he complained to the store manager, who explicitly said the policy was applied only to shoppers who were departing to China.

News of the discriminatory scheme quickly spread on social media, triggering outrage among the Chinese people. In response to the incident, World Duty Free issued an official statement on its Weibo account.

We are grateful for the comments shared on social media today regarding our VIP voucher scheme, the statement said. We have investigated this straight away and have identified an issue which we have corrected with immediate effect. The program applies regardless of the destination customers are flying to.

Though World Duty Free issued an official statement, it has yet to issue a sincere apology to the Chinese people, triggering even more of a backlash on social media. We demand an apology, not a statement, a Weibo user commented.

In addition, World Duty Free posted a Chinese New Year promotion on its Twitter account. Discover the Gucci Chinese New Year exclusive sunglasses, it read. The post has attracted many comments, with many calling the shop racist and demanding a sincere apology to the Chinese people.

Please celebrate Chinese New Year after you apologize for discriminating [against] Chinese customers, one Twitter user said. Celebrating Chinese New Year by being racist with Chinese customers, a different user said. Shame on you!

The tweet has since been deleted. But the Chinese people are still waiting for an apology.

Related: Netizens angry over allegations of discriminatory policies against Chinese shoppers at Heathrow AirportA woman selects New Year decorations ahead of the Spring Festival in Renxian County, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 11, 2018. The Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Feb. 16 this year. (Xinhua/Song Jie)

People select New Year decorations ahead of the Spring Festival in Suixi County of Huaibei City, east China's Anhui Province, Feb. 10, 2018. The Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Feb. 16 this year. (Xinhua/Li Xin)

People perform lion dance to greet the upcoming Spring Festival in Xiasi ancient town of Kaili City, southwest China's Guizhou Province, Feb. 11, 2018. The Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Feb. 16 this year. (Xinhua/Kai Shangyu)Ford is warning an additional 33,000 Ranger pickup owners not to drive their vehicles due to an increased risk concerning the potentially fatal Takata air bag inflators.

This notice comes about a month after Ford warned about 3,000 Ranger owners in North America to leave their midsize pickup parked, and to not drive it. These about 36,000 2006 Ford Rangers were already apart of the massive Takata recall, but "have been transferred due to an elevated risk."

The initial warning was issued in January after an exploding Takata air bag inflator that killed a person in West Virginia. The fatal crash occurred in July, and Ford found out and started investigating the issue in December 2017. It was discovered that the inflator built in this fatal crash was manufactured the same day as another one of Takata's fatal, defective inflators.

The expanded "critical warning" comes after Ford continued its investigation and testing procedures on the affected vehicles. Owners are asked to bring their Rangers into dealers, who will make the necessary repairs free of charge.

"Further inflator and propellant test data showed higher propellant pressures and ruptures inside certain inflators in vehicles built during the period included in this expanded recall," the automaker reports.

"It's important to note the driver and passenger airbag inflators in all 2004-06 Ford Rangers built in North America are already under a Takata air bag inflator recall. Final service parts are available now and customers are encouraged to contact their dealers to get their vehicles serviced."

The automaker reports that this do not drive warning covers 30,603 in the U.S. and 2,825 in Canada. To check the status of a 2006 Ford Ranger, enter its VIN number at this link.

After a New Year's Day crash in Malaysia, 22 people have been killed by exploding Takata air bag inflators. There have been deaths related to the recall in the United States, Malaysia and Australia. People have been killed in California, Louisiana, Florida, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Texas and South Carolina stateside.

The Associated Press compiled a list that shows the fatal crashes have occurred inside the Honda Civic, Accord, City, Civic, CR-V, and Acura TL and 2006 Ford Ranger models.

Across the world, 19 different automakers have recalled around 100 million inflators around the world. In the U.S., the 69 million recalled inflators represents the largest automotive recall in the country's history.WALKERVILLE, MI - A West Michigan woman walked around with a lottery ticket worth $500,000 for several days before realizing she had won.

Ann Tanner, a 63-year-old resident of the small Oceana County village of Walkerville purchased her Triple Cashword ticket at the Wesco located at 806 South Stewart Avenue in Fremont. It took her three days to realize she had won.

"I bought the ticket, stuck it in my purse, and forgot about it," Tanner said. "I take care of a gentleman who has a brain injury and while I was waiting for him to finish an appointment, I found the ticket and scratched it.

"When I saw it was a big winner I was hysterical. I drove around the block about seven times calling everyone I could think of leaving voicemails that no one could understand."

Tanner recently visited Michigan Lottery headquarters Friday to claim the big prize. With her winnings she plans to invest for retirement.

"Winning this prize means we'll be able to enjoy our retirement a little more," she said. "We'll take more vacations, and spend more time with our family."

Players have won more than $38 million playing Triple Bonus Cashword, which launched in December 2016. Each $10 ticket offers players a chance to win prizes ranging from $10 up to $500,000.

A new version of Triple Bonus Cashword was released in November 2017 featuring more than $36 million in prizes, including three $500,000 top prizes and 16 $1,000 prizes.

Lottery instant games may be purchased at 11,000 retailers across the state. In 2017, Lottery players won more than $960 million playing instant games.DETROIT, MI - Bruno Mars is returning to Michigan on the last leg of his "24K Magic World Tour."

The 11 time Grammy winner will perform at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on Saturday, September 15, 2018 with opener Cardi B. Detroit is one of 12 cities on the final leg of his huge world tour. Tickets ($59.50, $79.50, $99.50 and $175) go on sale on Friday, February 16 at Noon.

THE BIG CONCERTS COMING TO MICHIGAN IN 2018

Mars last performed in Michigan on the same tour at The Palace of Auburn Hills on August 12, 2017. At that concert he made a surprise announcement that he would donate $1 million to help the victims of the Flint water crisis.

The "24K Magic World Tour" kicked off March 28, 2017 in Antwerp, Belgium and will have made over 135 stops across North America, Latin America, Europe, and the U.K after its final leg.

Mars had a big night a few weeks ago at the 60th Grammy Awards where he won awards for Song of the Year ("That's What I Like"), Record of the Year and Album of the Year.ANN ARBOR, MI - The Ann Arbor City Council is on record voicing its support for creating a Community Policing Commission.

The council unanimously approved a resolution last week laying out the next steps in the process of eventually forming a new citizen-led board to review and have input on Ann Arbor policing matters.

"The City Council seeks to take action to advance the community's goals with respect to law enforcement practices ... by creating a Community Policing Commission," the resolution states.

The totality of its powers and responsibilities is yet to be decided, and the city is putting together an advisory task force to help with that.

Members of the task force are expected to be nominated by Mayor Christopher Taylor and confirmed by the council on March 19.

The task force will consist of 11 voting members, including at least one youth member, as well as two non-voting City Council members.

The approval of the council's resolution last week was preceded by a discussion of racism in America, and city leaders acknowledged Ann Arbor and its police department are not immune to racial bias.

Council Member Chuck Warpehoski, D-5th Ward, said there is racial injustice in the community that needs to be addressed.

"For me, coming into this process, I'm beginning with the belief and the recognition that racism exists," he said. "It exists in this country. It exists in this city. It's in our schools. It's in our hospitals. It's in our rental offices, our HR offices. And yes, it's in our law enforcement departments -- not because they're different than any of us, but because they're like any of us.

"There's racism in myself," Warpehoski added. "Doing the work on implicit bias, I see that racial biases and prejudices that have informed our cultural landscape, they've affected me, too. Taking the Harvard implicit assessment test, it didn't come out the way I wanted it to."

Warpehoski said racial bias is "part of the air we breathe" and it's something that needs to be faced honestly, tenderly and compassionately "so that we can make change."

He said the advisory task force needs to have the voices of people most at risk of negative police interactions at its center as it works out the tricky details of how the policing commission should function.

Taylor said everyone in Ann Arbor has the right to receive police service without bias and that's the AAPD's obligation.

"I think it's fair to say that generally people of color in America often view police differently than white people often view police in America," Taylor said, arguing some members of the community see themselves as "subject to race-based uncertainty and risk" from police.

"This condition is not acceptable to me, to this council, to Chief Baird or the AAPD, or anyone at city hall," Taylor said.

"And we're going to do something about it," the mayor added. "Now, we are under no illusion as to the depth and breadth of this problem, nor do we have illusions as to the difficulty and duration of its resolution. We are committed, however, to doing what we can."

Taylor said the next step is to set up a task force to recommend an outline for a policing commission.

"With the task force's advice, I believe that in the months to come the staff and ultimately this council will construct and stand up a policing commission that educates the public and police, that evaluates and advises police practices, and reviews and evaluates complaint procedures and complaint outcomes," Taylor said.

Taking into consideration the task force's recommendations and other information, City Administrator Howard Lazarus is expected to bring a resolution to the City Council for approval on Sept. 4 to officially establish the Community Policing Commission, detailing its roles and responsibilities and anticipated budget and staffing impacts.

"I believe that, with this policing commission we will have in place a place where civilians can come and know that they will be heard, where AAPD can come and describe what they do and why they do it, where both civilian and sworn can come together to discuss and help craft policing in Ann Arbor," Taylor said.

"This will be a place of truth-telling and listening and, ultimately, I believe, a catalyst for improvement, as well as ideally a model for other communities to follow."

Taylor said the citizen-led commission will need staff support, broad access to data, and cooperation from AAPD.

"And it will receive all three," he said.

Taylor said the commission will represent the public and groups impacted by policing.

"The task force and the policing commission that follows will need, I believe, to be comprised of people who unflinchingly understand our past and our present, who understand the pernicious history of racism and white supremacy in America, and the role that law and the enforcement of law have played in the maintenance of both," he said.

Taylor said the members also will need to be unapologetic and compassionate in their understanding of the need for law enforcement and its importance to maintaining a peaceful and safe community.

"They must be unafraid to acknowledge the difficulty of the task and the consequences of that difficulty," he said.

"We demand that our officers be ready at a moment's notice to pivot, to pivot between tenderness and violence. Officers realize that their split-second decisions will be judged frame by frame, but they nevertheless put on the uniform and stand ready to help all of us, knowing that they are as imperfect as the public they are sworn to protect."

Just as police officers are obligated to perform their duties without bias or favor, Taylor said, they are owed an open heart and thanks for their service to the community.

"To succeed, the task force and the commission will ultimately need to be comprised of people who are committed to constructive effort, who easily see the humanity and dignity of both the other and the officer, people who know that the only path to achieve these goals is for the commission and the public to work with AAPD, not against it," he said.

City staff members, including members of the police department and city attorney's office, are expected to assist the task force as it works in the coming months to outline the roles and responsibilities of the proposed Community Policing Commission.

The resolution approved by the council offered some general guidelines, suggesting the task force's recommendations may include discussion of roles and responsibilities as they relate to police training, policies and practices, dispute resolution, incident review, strategic planning, and receiving civilian complaints against police and performing post-action review of complaints.

Read the full resolution

Local resident Jennifer Haines spoke at the meeting, saying she hears about racial profiling at least on a weekly basis from friends and through her work at the Washtenaw Alliance for Virtual Education, and as a board member at the Neutral Zone teen center in Ann Arbor.

If people are afraid to come forward to police, she said, it hinders the AAPD's ability to protect and serve.

"Right now we have a police-community trust situation that's broken," she told council members. "This isn't a matter of sheer numbers, so saying that most people are happy with the police still doesn't address the fact that most members of our more vulnerable populations don't feel that trust and comfort."

Dwight Wilson, a member of Ann Arbor's Human Rights Commission, speaks at the commission's meeting inside city hall on Dec. 9, 2015.

Dwight Wilson, a member of the city's Human Rights Commission, also addressed the council, mentioning it's black history month and bringing up the issues of slavery and discrimination against blacks.

"As a black man -- since my ancestors were kidnapped, transported in chains to this country, then terrorized to know our place either as slaves or disrespected freed men -- other than our children, we have been without a shield. I want more than a human shield provided by those who themselves are too often victimized," he said. "I want a structured, multicultural, funded, independent, citizens commission to be in an oversight position, not a mere advisory position."

Wilson said he spent 2,000-plus hours chairing the HRC's study a few years ago that recommended creating a police oversight body. The report's release coincided with the one-year anniversary of the death of Aura Rosser, a 40-year-old black woman who was shot by an Ann Arbor police officer responding to a domestic dispute in 2014.

After a Michigan State Police investigation, the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office concluded Officer David Ried was justified in shooting Rosser when she came at officers with a knife, but there has been continued public outcry over her death.

Wilson said the police and the public should be "on the same team with the community serving as captain."

"I want a well-trained, citizens commission able to help to establish all policy, review and establish all training requirements, receive complaints and call into question by subpoena, if necessary, those actions which apparently fall short of community-agreed-upon standards," he said. "I want this police oversight commission to be organically linked with the Human Rights Commission. We demand acceptable behavioral practices from those who labor for our safety."

Wilson added, "In short, we the employers, whose millions of tax dollars make a police force possible, should have a powerful voice that is not absurdly limited by what on whim our employees choose to disclose. There should be no need for me to remind you of slavery or the countless numbers of us who have been profiled, harassed, brutalized, killed across this country and here in Ann Arbor."

Council Member Sumi Kailasapathy, D-1st Ward, raised concerns that the council resolution as originally proposed last week suggested creating procedures and criteria to receive civilian complaints "and timely forward them to AAPD for review."

"So here we are setting up a civilian review body, which is going to take complaints from residents and timely pass it on to the Ann Arbor Police Department," Kailasapathy said. "So how does this enhance the current practice of police policing themselves?"

The resolution was later amended to drop the part about forwarding complaints to the AAPD, now stating simply: "Create and implement procedure and criteria to receive civilian complaints."

Kailasapathy, one of the City Council's liaisons to the Human Rights Commission, said when the HRC was putting together its police oversight report a few years ago, it requested a blank copy of the AAPD's use-of-force forms, which is a form filled out by police whenever there's any use of force by police.

"The police department refused to give a blank form to the Human Rights Commission" she said. "They still haven't gotten that blank form. It's not the data. They could not even get a blank form."

Asked by The Ann Arbor News to respond to that, Police Chief Jim Baird said a subcommittee of the HRC had a series of meetings with former Chief John Seto following the Rosser shooting in 2014 and Seto explained how use of force is documented, tracked and reviewed by AAPD. Baird said part of that discussion included Seto giving the subcommittee aggregate data captured on use-of-force forms, and the committee was shown a blank copy of the form.

"They asked if they could take it with them and Chief Seto advised that it was an internal document and that he preferred not to share the actual document," Baird said.

The reason the blank form was not released then is that the form had information that would be redacted if requested under the Freedom of Information Act, Baird said. He said there hasn't been any further request for a redacted copy of the document from the HRC subcommittee or any council member since then.

"Nevertheless, the subcommittee has reviewed the entire unredacted form," Baird said. "Although this 'refusal' has been mentioned on numerous occasions, it has not been discussed between the AAPD administration and the HRC since that meeting with Chief Seto in early 2015. Importantly, no council members were in attendance at this meeting or any of the series of meetings with the subcommittee of the HRC in 2015. If the AAPD were to get a FOIA for any such document, it will go through the normal FOIA process."

Kailasapathy said she wants a policing commission that will be more than just a feel-good body. She wants it to be able to make substantive changes in terms of community policing and race relations, and put in place a system of checks and balances and greater transparency.

"I know the majority of the police officers in this community are very decent, humane people," she said.

Council Member Jack Eaton, D-4th Ward, said he appreciates Ann Arbor police officers for their dedication to the community and he doesn't always agree with critics of the police department, but he also wants an independent citizen body to oversee the AAPD.

"In order to restore community trust, we must let the citizens lead this process," he said of the upcoming task force work.

Eaton said the city charter authorizes a civilian board to oversee the police department. He thinks the council should give the commission the ability to act independently of the police department.

"I want to make really clear that nobody is advocating that the eventual commission will have any power to discipline or recommend discipline," Eaton said of the commission's authority when it comes to investigating complaints against police in Ann Arbor.

"What the residents have plainly expressed to us is a desire that a citizens board be allowed to take a look at all of the information available and make findings of fact upon which thereafter the department would act on or not act on," he said.

Council Member Zachary Ackerman, D-3rd Ward, said the formation of the task force is the next necessary step, and at this juncture he said he only knows a few things to be true.

"I know that this work will be long and it will be ongoing and it can never cease," he said. "I know that this work will be difficult and the stakes will be very high. And I know that this work is very necessary and there is urgency. I also know that this work is not for me."

As a white male, Ackerman said he doesn't have the perspective of others, so he looks forward to learning from the task force.

He said he wants input on what type of leverage and power the policing commission should have, what types of resources and access to information it will need, and how to protect the trust and confidentiality of crime victims, complaint filers and the police.

"I am excited to push forward this work because I have faith in our police department to live up to our aspirations with the guidance and direct input from the community that they serve," Ackerman said.YPSILANTI, MI - Eastern Michigan University's Board of Regents voted to extend an agreement with its privatized dining service company, Chartwells Higher Education, during the board's meeting on Friday, Feb. 9.

The five-year extension between EMU and Chartwells goes through June 2031, providing a $5.5 million up-front cash payment to the university. EMU estimated it expects to realize an additional $14.8 million in net present value over the extension term, which includes the up-front cash payment.

EMU finalized a decision to privatize its dining services in June 2016, approving a 10-year contract with Chartwells.

The agreement included a $5 million signing bonus to EMU, $18 million in initial capital funding and $2.5 million for graduate assistant scholarships. The university expects to realize $40 million over the life of the 10-year agreement.

During the first year of the agreement, EMU's food services underwent several capital investments by Chartwells, with the movement and expansion of the Starbucks location in the EMU Student Center.

Additionally, Chartwells introduced a variety of other dining options, including the addition of a Chick-fil-A dining facility in McKenny Hall and a Smashburger in the Student Center.

Despite some opposition from students and workers toward privatization following the tentative agreement, EMU President James Smith said the partnership has been beneficial for the university.

"Recent student surveys indicated that dining was improving in dining service areas, food quality and viewed positively throughout campus," Smith said during the Board of Regents meeting. "This was accomplished while maintaining a staffing level that was equal to, if not greater than in some areas, prior to the partnership."

EMU's Student Services surveyed students on their dining experiences, both before the agreement in March 2016 and October 2017 to assess dining satisfaction before and after hiring Chartwells.

According to survey results, students said they were more satisfied after the Chartwells agreement in areas like taste, fresh ingredients availability of healthy options, atmosphere and cleanliness, speed of service, variety of foods and beverages and the promotion of "green services."

While EMU saw satisfaction improve in areas of price and value from 67.5 percent in 2016 to 72.9 percent in 2017, the university noted it would like to see those numbers improve. Students indicated they were less satisfied with the availability of promotions and specials.

The survey, to which nearly 60 percent more students responded than in the previous year, also showed that more students are eating in the Student Center than before and that there is greater usage of the Commons residence hall dining area as well.

EMU Student Government President Miles Payne said the partnership with Chartwells has ultimately been positive.

"EMU dining was not doing a sufficient enough job and Chartwells is certainly a step up," Payne said. "Now, I would be foolish to say the whole student body supports this decision, because it is sometimes forgotten for most students that we are eating campus food and not at five-star restaurant.

"With that perspective in mind and data to back up the increased satisfaction and response turnout, it is clear that the partnership with Chartwells is a good one," Payne added.ANN ARBOR, MI - An ex-University of Michigan doctor has been temporarily jailed on child pornography charges after being targeted in a probe by the FBI, his defense attorney has confirmed.

The federal complaint alleges a search of Dr. Mark F. Hoeltzel's Ann Arbor home resulted in finding "child pornography in plain view on the device," according to a report by The Detroit Free Press.

Hoeltzel's Attorney Ray Cassar said his client is presumed innocent at this time.

"All it is at this point is a complaint," Cassar said Monday, Feb. 12. "We look forward to addressing these charges in court."

Cassar noted his client has a detention hearing scheduled for Wednesday.

Attorney General Bill Schuette filed a separate complaint in late December against Hoeltzel, who had worked in UM's Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic in Ann Arbor.

Hoeltzel recently lost his medical license and his job as the state investigates claims he was intimate with a patient while at work.

Hoeltzel had his medical license suspended by the State of Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs' (LARA) on Dec. 21, 2017. In his complaint, the attorney general argued Hoeltzel's license should be suspended for negligence or failure to exercise due care, incompetence, lack of good moral character and unprofessional conduct.

The complaint alleges that Hoeltzel began texting a patient wishing her a Merry Christmas in early December 2015 after seeing her at the clinic when she was receiving treatment from another physician.

Hoeltzel and the patient subsequently began texting and emailing and the doctor had her treatment transferred to his care, the complaint states.

Hoeltzel treated the patient from Dec. 24, 2015 until November 2017, according to the complaint. During that time, Hoeltzel prescribed the patient various controlled substances on a monthly basis, including oxycontin and morphine sulfate, the complaint alleges.

The two continued communicating via text, email and Google hangout, state investigators allege, with the messages becoming personal and sexual in nature, according to the complaint.

In 2016, Hoeltzel and the patient began engaging in a physical, sexual relationship - some of which took place in the clinic and the patient's apartment, the complaint alleges. Hoeltzel would often bring alcohol in their encounters, which he would share with the patient despite the fact that she was not 21 and taking a number of medications, the complaint alleges.

The complaint alleges Hoeltzel also told the patient it was OK for her to drink while taking any of her medications, except methotrexate.

"(Hoeltzel's) personal relationship compromised his ability to provide (the patient) with appropriate medical treatment," the complaint states.

The complaint also alleges that in 2004, Hoeltzel exchanged emails and online messages with an 11-year-old patient he met at a UM Arthritis Camp where he was serving as a doctor.

The two exchanged messages from 2004 to 2006. Some of Hoeltzel's messages were "flirtatious and suggestive," the complaint states. The girl's mother reported the messages to the Arthritis Foundation that was responsible for the camp, leading to a meeting between UM and the foundation in which the conduct was addressed with Hoeltzel, the complaint states.

Hoeltzel admitted some of the messages were flirtatious and constituted "a major lapse in professional judgment," the complaint states. As a result, UM required Hoeltzel to undergo a "boundaries course."

UM Executive Vice President of Medical Affairs Marschall Runge said Michigan Medicine was notified that the state licensing board was investigating Hoeltzel for sexual misconduct in early December. He is no longer an employee of Michigan Medicine.

Michigan Medicine immediately took steps to protect its patients by removing Hoeltzel from patient care duties the day it was alerted of the investigation, Runge said.

"We also immediately reported him to law enforcement and have been fully cooperating with the investigation that is underway," Runge said in January. "In the meantime, we also have hired an experienced outside reviewer to investigate this matter. These are very disturbing and serious allegations, and we have reached out to our patients to inform them of the situation, offer resources and provide them with a way to report any concerns.

"The president and senior leaders of the university are aware and supportive of steps we are taking to address this matter," Runge said. "We must continue to do everything possible to protect the patients who entrust Michigan Medicine with their care. We also urge everyone to report any instances of potential misconduct that occur."ANN ARBOR, MI - Washtenaw County parents spent Monday, Feb. 12, in class with their children for the 23rd annual National African American Parent Involvement Day.

Schools held student programs, provided meals for parents and brought in special speakers for NAAPID, which was started by the late Ann Arbor educator Joe Dulin. The event will continue with NAAPID @ Night on Monday evening at Eastern Michigan University.

Parents and educators agreed it's important for parents of all races and ethnicities to invest in their children's education as part of NAAPID and throughout the year.

"We want to be as welcoming as we can for all of our families, but in particular for families who may not be part of our majority," said Dawn Linden, executive director of elementary education for Ann Arbor Public Schools.

Students at Ann Arbor's Mitchell Elementary School used NAAPID to share what they have been learning through the school's social justice unit.

Classes read the book "The Youngest Marcher" by Cynthia Levinson with illustrations by Vanessa Brantley-Newton. The book tells the true story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, who was arrested at the age of 9 for participating in the civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1963 and spent one week in jail.

In art class, Mitchell students created pieces that illustrated social justice ideals, protest signs, the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, and quilts, with assistance from the African American Quilters Network. Their artwork hung on the walls of the school gym, where students performed songs for a social justice celebration on Monday.

"In their classroom, they were inquiring into what it means to be an activist in your community. So this project coincided with that unit really nicely," said art teacher Kathryn Williams. "We talked about why an artist would make art about something that needs to change in the world. We talked about how puting words and symbols in your art helps share that message."

Parent Julie Payne said she appreciates the diversity of Mitchell's student body, and she has seen her two sons - who are in first and second grade - make academic progress as well as learn positive values during their time at Mitchell, she said.

"I just think historically sometimes academic systems have catered to a certain type of parent and a certain type of home. I think that it's really important to invite all parents to be involved and to get that opportunity," Payne said.

At Ann Arbor's Logan Elementary School, parents were invited to a multicultural potluck - featuring foods representing the myriad cultures included in Logan's student body - and a "Diversity in Verse" school assembly, where each grade level presented a poem or song related to diversity. Flags from the more than 45 countries represented in Logan's student population hang around the school's cafeteria.

"We want to see what (teachers) use to teach them and how they engage with the students," said Gustavo Mendonca, who sat in on his son's kindergarten class on Monday with his wife, Daniela Mendonca. Gustavo and Daniela Mendonca both are faculty at the University of Michigan.

Many parents said scheduling demands are the main factor preventing them from being more involved in their children's school, especially for parents who work full-time, are single parents or have multiple children involved in extracurriculars.

"Just having that time to be involved and still be able to maintain the day-to-day at home, I think is one of the barriers," said Tierra Jackson, a third-grade teacher at Logan who organized the school's NAAPID events with third-grade teacher Natasha Stewart.

April Weber, who coordinated Logan's multicultural potluck, agreed. She is a single mother of two who works full-time, and she took Monday off work to be at the school.

"We do have a lot of support from our community, even the working parents," Weber said. "I myself am a working full-time mother and still come and make sure I support my child as best I can. We have a lot of parents who give financially because they can't give time."

Doris Fields, a communications professor at Eastern Michigan University who has studied interracial communication, said parents who had a negative school experience themselves may be hesitant to get involved at their children's school.

It's important for teachers to understand their students' family and cultural background and to communicate with parents on a regular basis - not just when their student is in trouble, Fields said. She also is the daughter of NAAPID founder Joe Dulin.

"It has to be a working relationship with the parents ," said Fields, who is the director of undergraduate studies at EMU. "If we started communicating better with the parents, that would help them feel more involved."

In public schools in Washtenaw County and across the country, there is a persistent achievement gap between white students and students of color.

For example, about 58 percent of Washtenaw County's white third graders tested as proficient or advanced in English language arts on the 2017 MSTEP, compared to about 23 percent of the county's black third graders, according to data from the Michigan Center for Educational Performance and Information.

In eighth grade math, 57 percent of Washtenaw County's white students and 16 percent of black students tested as proficient or advanced on the 2017 MSTEP.

When it comes to college, 63 percent of white students hit college readiness benchmarks on the SAT in 2017, compared to 16 percent of black students, and white students in Washtenaw County's Class of 2016 were more likely to go on to college than their black peers.

Parents and educators pointed to individualized academic support for students as a key way to start narrowing that achievement gap.

"There is no silver bullet in education that solves all problems, so we do a lot of work to customize and individualize for each student," said Logan Principal Will Wright. " ... We look at the individual circumstances of every single child and try to design programs for each child."

Dion McCrary, whose daughter is in fourth grade at Mitchell, said the school does a good job of identifying students' needs early and providing them with additional academic support, giving the example of her daughter receiving extra help with reading.

Robin Gatson, who has a son in second grade at Mitchell and a daughter in seventh grade at Scarlett Middle School, said making sure all students have the same opportunities and educational options will help close the achievement gap between students of different races.

"Some kids need more help than others and that's OK, so you have to be able to help and put in the work. That also goes with the parents. Just because you send them to school, when they come back home to you, you're like a teacher too," Gatson said. " ... As a community as a whole, everybody has to put in the work and have the same opportunities for everybody."BAY CITY, MI -- Expressing disappointment over President Donald Trump and vowing to no longer be affiliated with any political party, the chairman of the Bay County Republican Party has stepped down from his post.

Brandon DeFrain, who has served as the chairman of the Bay County Republican Party since 2014, announced his resignation in a 333-word post on his personal Facebook page on Thursday, Feb. 8.

Officials with the party have called an emergency meeting for Tuesday, Feb. 13, to discuss filling the open position. David Scholl, vice chairman of the party, said he would likely finish DeFrain's term as chairman through the end of the year.

"Brandon was excellent for us and he did move us forward," Scholl said. "In this last presidential election, he was very instrumental in getting the word out and helping the party have a presence in Bay County."

Trump won the Democrat-heavy Bay County with 53 percent of the vote.

Brandon DeFrain, a 1st District Bay County Commissioner candidate, watches news updates on the 2016 Presidential election at a Bay County Republican watch party at Old City Hall on Nov. 8, 2016.

In his announcement, DeFrain said, "I can no longer remain silent about our President. I have not seen a leader, I've only seen more of the same... I'm tired of attempting to defend a machine that does not defend the people I love."

A year ago, DeFrain publicly endorsed Trump for a national TV segment on NBC's 'Today' show called "In Trump They Trust." Political analyst Nicolle Wallace interviewed voters in counties that had previously voted overwhelmingly for Barack Obama in the past two elections -- which included Bay County -- to understand their vote for Trump and what they expect from the administration.

DeFrain was a fresh face for the local Republican Party who nearly upset Michael Duranczyk on two occasions for a seat on the Bay County Board of Commissioners, which has long been controlled by Democrats. In 2016, DeFrain lost the race by eight votes.

Last year, Michigan Republican Party Chairman Ron Weiser named DeFrain one of the party's top Republicans in the state.

Scholl called DeFrain's departure "sudden" and "unexpected."

"It's unclear the reason behind it, other than what he put on his Facebook page," he said.

In that Facebook post, DeFrain argued there has been a rise in racism and hatred since Trump has taken office:

"Since Inauguration Day I've shared my opinion in close circles and mainly with family members, friends and my wife. I haven't spoke much about the current state of political affairs because in the past, I believed in giving our leaders a chance. Since I've been involved in politics I've spent my time learning about the passion on both sides. I have found myself torn. This leads to where my mind is today. I do not support the actions coming from the White House. I felt a strong sense of unity in Bay County during the 2016 election. Despite some of the terrible things being said in campaigns around the country, I felt that people in our community could come together and embrace a change. But it seems that national politics only lead to us hating each other regardless who we vote for."

DeFrain declined to comment for this story, saying his Facebook post speaks for itself.

Scholl said it was his understanding that DeFrain wanted to focus more on his family and a new music festival that he's bringing to downtown Bay City this summer.

In his post, DeFrain didn't rule out running for political office in the future.

"I will no longer seek political office as a partisan represented candidate and I will no longer be more than an independent thinker working for the good of my family and my community," he wrote.Art Van Elslander, founder of the Michigan-based retail-giant Art Van Furniture, has died at the age of 87, company officials announced on Monday.

Elslander was born in 1930 as the son of a Belgian immigrant. He grew up in Detroit working at his father's bar and later served in the U.S. Army after graduating from Denby High School in 1948.

"My family is heartbroken by the loss of our father," said Gary Van Elslander, the eldest son, in a company announcement, on Monday, Feb. 12.

In 1959, Art Van Elslander opened his first store in a 4,000-square-foot shop on Gratiot Avenue. Art Van is one of the largest independent furniture retailers with more than 100 stores throughout the Midwest.

The company sold its business to Thomas H. Lee Partners (THL) in 2017.

Elslander was known for being a generous donor, including: St. John Providence Health System, FOCUS:HOPE, Forgotten Harvest and the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph.

He also was a long-time sponsor of the annual Thanksgiving Day parade, which he rode in for several decades. In 2017, the company revealed their largest float ever built for the parade.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said Elslander was one of Detroit's "greatest supporters and philanthropists" and that there will never be another "Art Van," in a Monday statement.

"Art's kindness and generosity seemed to have no limits. Thanks to his support, families across metro Detroit and the nation are able to share in the annual tradition of America's Thanksgiving Day Parade," Duggan said in a statement.

"Our premature and critically-ill newborn babies are being given the best chance at a healthy life at the Mary Ann Van Elslander Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St. John Hospital & Medical Center. And his extraordinary pledge of $20 million for the Solonus Casey Center will help to revitalize another city neighborhood."Detroit police say a 14-hour standoff concluded about 1 p.m. Monday when police entered the home and found the suspect dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, as well the 49-year-old man's believed girlfriend dead inside.

A total of three women were killed, in addition to injuries suffered by two Detroit police officers and an off-duty Detroit Public Schools officer, all of whom were shot in the legs and will survive, according to Detroit Police Commander Elvin Barren.

Deputy Chief Elvin Barren provides final update on the barricade gunman on the citys east side. He also acknowledges the men and women who worked in partnership, around the clock, in efforts to bring this situation to a resolve: DPD, MSP, WCS, Border Patrol, DPS, DFD, EMS, DTE, Salvation Army. Our thoughts and prayers goes out to the family and friends of the victims who lost their lives during this tragic incident. Posted by Detroit Police Department on Monday, February 12, 2018

Chief James Craig provides update regarding the barricade gunman situation on the citys east side. 3 officers were shot (1 DPS & 2 DPD Ofcs) and two female victims were fatally wounded. They may also be a third female victim inside of a resident that is currently occupied by the 49 year old male suspect. Posted by Detroit Police Department on Monday, February 12, 2018

The off-duty Detroit Public Schools police officer lives near the scene of the shooting. Barren said one of the women, who was killed, is married to the injured Detroit Public Schools officer.

The suspect's girlfriend, who was found dead inside the house on 19000 block of Lamont in Detroit, owned the house, Barren said. The suspected shooter also lived there.

The suspected shooter was identified as Lance Smith.

Police, as of about 12:30 p.m. Monday, had Michigan State Police-owned robots on scene capable of entering the home, climbing steps and relaying video images to the command staff. They've been used in past Detroit-area barricaded-gunman standoff situationsto determine whether the suspect had committed suicide or still posed a threat.

Several fires were started by the suspect through the night, possibly for warmth, Craig said.

When police first responded to the scene, one officer was shot in the leg.

There were nine officers, including the off-duty Detroit Public Schools officer, "pinned down" by gunfire for at least an hour while they waited for the Special Response Team officers to arrive and escort them to safety.

It's not clear what sparked the suspect's aggression, but Craig said it is possible, based on statements made to police, he is suffering from mental illness. The suspect had no criminal history.

Some who know the suspect and his girlfriend, said the relationship was "for the most part uneventful," Craig said.

Assistant Police Chief Arnold Williams told media early Monday that the suspect had at least seven firearms registerd in his name.

Police fired flash-bang grenades and gas cannisters into the home multiple times between 10:30 p.m. Sunday and 2 a.m. Monday, when they lost all contact with the suspect.

"The suspect was heard saying, 'I will not be taken without a fight,'" Craig said. "He clearly expressed and intention to do harm, He clearly expressed and intent to hurt police officers."

Police arrested a neighbor, but later released him.

"It was believed at one time during this situation that he may have also been firing shots," Craig said. "A determination was made that he was not firing shots."

The incident comes weeks after Detroit Police Officer Glenn Doss Jr., 25, a Detroit native and two-year member of the police department, was shot in the head the night of Jan. 24 while responding to a domestic dispute. He died four days later.

Doss' shooter is believed to suffer from mental illness.

"This ridiculousness has to stop with respect to taking our mentally ill and trying to rehabilitate them in the jail system, or leaving them out on the streets to fend for themselves, where we have police officers getting killed, we have those with mental illness being killed ... and we have other citizens who are being killed, or being injured," Detroit police union President Mark Diaz said during a recent conversation about mental illness on WJBK-TV, Fox 2 News' "Let it Rip."

" ... It's a lack of leadership at the very top. I'm not just talking about in Lansing; I'm talking about in the United States of America."

Another of Detroit police officer, Waldis Johnson, has remained unconscious in critical condition since being shot while responding to a domestic assault on April 30, 2017.

Police said a tenant in the apartment building the officer responded to, who was not the suspect, opened fire on the officer, striking Johnson in the head. Johnson's partner dragged him to safety and exchanged gunfire with the shooter, whom he shot and killed.A barricaded gunman, who may be suffering from mental illness, shot a Detroit police officer about 10:30 p.m. Sunday, as well as two women, who died, and a third man, who was alive at the time of a police statement provided about 2 a.m. Monday.

The police officer's wounds are not life threatening, Detroit Police Assistant Chief Arnold Williams said.

Detroit Police Assistant Chief Arnold Williams provides preliminary information concerning a barricade gunman situation on the citys east side. 1 DPD Officer was shot as well as, three additional citizens. The suspect is believed to be mentally unstable. No arrests at this time. Additional details will be provided. Posted by Detroit Police Department on Sunday, February 11, 2018

"The suspect made statements that he will not go down without a fight," Williams said. "At this time, we're trying to negotiate ... and talk the suspect out for surrender.

" ... These situations always revolve around someone with a mental illness that's either untreated, or something they're responsible for self-treating which they do not treat."

Williams said one of the women who was fatally shot was a neighbor, and the second was "just responding because she has a relative or a family member that she was trying to check on."

The shootings occurred in the 19000 block of Lamont.

The suspect had no criminal history, but is licensed to carry a concealed firearm, and has seven guns registered in his name.

Williams said the man had an argument with one of the victims prior to the shootings.

The incident comes weeks after Detroit Police Officer Glenn Doss Jr., 25, a Detroit native and two-year member of the police department, was shot in the head the night of Jan. 24 while responding to a domestic dispute. He died four days later.

The shooter is believed to suffer from mental illness.

"This ridiculousness has to stop with respect to taking our mentally ill and trying to rehabilitate them in the jail system, or leaving them out on the streets to fend for themselves, where we have police officers getting killed, we have those with mental illness being killed ... and we have other citizens who are being killed, or being injured," Detroit police union President Mark Diaz said during a recent conversation about mental illness on WJBK-TV, Fox 2 News' "Let it Rip."

" ... It's a lack of leadership at the very top. I'm not just talking about in Lansing; I'm talking about in the United States of America."

Another of Detroit police officer, Waldis Johnson, has remained unconscious in critical condition since being shot while responding to a domestic assault on April 30, 2017.

Police said a tenant in the apartment building the officer responded to, who was not the suspect, opened fire on the officer, striking Johnson in the head. Johnson's partner dragged him to safety and exchanged gunfire with the shooter, whom he shot and killed.(This story has been updated to indicate that the state of Michigan has shifted from working with Wayne State University to working with KWR Watercycle Research Institute on Legionnaires' disease issues in the city of Flint.)

FLINT, MI -- Wayne State University, which the state paid to search for a possible connection between Flint River water and Legionnaires' disease outbreaks in 2014 and 2015, has been replaced by the company that criticized its work earlier this month.

A spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said state government has shifted to working with KWR Watercycle Research Institute of the Netherlands.

A contract with the company estimates the value of the one-year deal at $737,000.

The shift to KWR comes after Wayne State ended its work here on Dec. 31 rather than allow KWR to oversee it's work on Legionnaires' issues.

Known as the Flint Area Community Health and Environment Partnership, the Wayne State team announced just last week that it had published two scientific, peer-reviewed reports, concluding that 80 percent of Legionnaires' cases during outbreaks in Flint in 2014 and 2015 can be linked to the city's drinking water at the time.

From April 2014 until October 2015, the city used the Flint River as its water source, but the state never required the water be treated to make it less corrosive.

DHHS, which has not recognized a connection between Flint water and the Legionnaires' outbreaks, immediately questioned the Wayne State research, calling it inaccurate and incomplete.

DHHS also released an October 2017 report by KWR last week that said the relationship between the state and FACHEP had deteriorated to a point that it was impossible to develop "a climate where sound, unbiased and responsible research is promoted."

Some of that distrust has been detailed in Genesee District Court, where Shawn McElmurry, the lead researcher at FACEHP, has testified that DHHS Director Nick Lyon didn't appear interested in research that would find Legionella bacteria in Flint water.

State records show DHHS officials were among those who knew of suspicions that the surge in Legionnaires' was connected to the use of river water as early as 2014, but the agency never informed the public.

KWR's contract with the state includes a statement of work requiring it to identify promising FACHEP research that needs strengthening with additional data collection and performing an evaluation of the current FACHEP research data against objectives in its last contract.

The $3.35-million contract between the FACHEP and the MDHHS started June 1, 2016, and expired Dec. 31.How was 2017 for Alpina and Frederique Constant and what is in store for 2018?

We had a good year. We started to integrate some of our sales activities within the Citizen Group. We started in Japan and the United States, then the UK in the middle of last year and now we are merging our operations in Italy as well. There have been quite lot of changes, therefore, as far as distribution is concerned, but otherwise nothing has changed. We are already seeing the first results from the United States. We now have 500 people representing us there; we used to have 17. So it is not just a few more people, its a whole different ball game. We see this going forward in 2018.

There is a big hole opposite your office where, although its hard to believe, you will have a brand-new building by early next year. What is that going to bring to the group?

It is a question of more capacity. We have people working in the old Alpina conference room, which means that Alpina doesnt have a conference room any more. We have some offices with six people working in one room, so we need more offices. On the first and second floor we will reorganise our T1 and T2 operations. On the ground floor we will have a very big customer experience area, where we can invite people. Its something we would like to develop more. It is indeed a big hole, but I have been told that by the end of April the entire concrete structure will be finished. Then they will start with the facade and the main work should be finished by the end of August. Then we will have to start on the interior. So things start slow, then shoot up quickly, then slow down again.

You were ahead of the curve with smart watches in the industry at a time when other brands were hesitating...

We started in 2015, grew in 2016 and grew again in 2017. The growth curve was not as steep last year, but we did not launch any new smart watches either. The horological smart watches now account for around 12% of our sales, so it has developed into an important category. By the end of February this year we will come with something very new for Frederique Constant and we will also have something new for Alpina at Baselworld.

I feel that the Swiss watch industry still doesnt understand how much the Apple watch and other smart watches have eaten into the figures, particularly the figures for quartz movements. The Apple Watch Series 3 is the next level, which moves from notifications and fitness tracking to health orientation. I think this is where we will start to see the true benefits of the smart watch and once again Apple is in the lead. They are starting to inform people if their resting heart rate is too high and are even branching out into medical information. Apple has sold 15 million watches and when I go to the US I see more and more people wearing Apple Watches. The Apple Watch is now in its third generation and who knows what they will bring with the fourth generation. If they start to adapt the case and have something other than just a black screen then the Swiss watch industry could be heading for trouble. I still say quite frankly that many of my colleagues in the industry dont know what is happening.

What about the argument that it gets younger people interested in watches? Do you not subscribe to this view?

I do, but you have to be very careful. If this is your only defence while your industry goes down the drain then you are fooling yourself. Business is still very tough, even though the statistics look a lot better. Things are still not great in the US and we know that what happens there will gradually move eastwards. It used to take ten years but Im not sure it will take that long any more. It might just be a few years.

What about e-commerce?

With our e-commerce department we have gained a lot of experience. We realised we needed to be much more hands-on and do many different campaigns rather than just talk. One of the things we learned is that a successful digital campaign needs hundreds of different ads. We started some campaigns with 50 different advertisements but some of them went up to 150 different ads. If I try to explain this to other people in the industry they think Im mad. We have been recruiting younger people because I have noticed you need high energy levels and strong stamina for this kind of work. I think many people in the watch industry are simply not mentally capable of this kind of task. You also need to take a little bit of risk. We are seeing the first results but there is still a long way to go.

What about Baselworld 2018?

We hear a lot of things, many of them negative. We will have our stand downstairs as usual. We had a good Baselworld last year, despite there being fewer people. We expect the same for this year, so unlike many others I am quite positive about Baselworld this year. Its still too expensive and the organisers are still not amenable to negotiation, but it will still be the most important exhibition for us.GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- For the second time in almost 11 years, Willette Wilson is searching for answers in the shooting death of one of her three children.

The death of her oldest son in 2007 sparked nightly calls to her remaining sons to check on them.

But when her middle son, Curtis "Kirky" Swift Jr., didn't answer his phone two nights in a row last month, she knew something was wrong.

Swift was found dead of a gunshot wound Jan. 19, inside the Straight Avenue NW home where he lived alone. His mother said he was last seen alive two days earlier.

"Tragedy has struck me so many times," Wilson said. "Half of the time, I don't know if I'm coming or going. I'm still in a state of shock. I haven't been able to mourn because I don't understand why someone would do Kirky like that."

Wilson said Swift was at the home of the mother of one of his two children Jan. 17, when he received a call and was picked up in a vehicle. He didn't show up the following evening to his daughter's birthday party.

Wilson said the doors of Swift's home were locked when police arrived to check on him. That led her to believe his killer was someone he trusted.

"Kirky was very private about where he lived and letting people come there," she said. "He had been through a lot so he was more sheltered in recent years. He didn't have too many friends he trusted. He just wanted to be a father and do everything right."

Swift grew up in Grand Rapids and graduated from East Kentwood High School. He didn't have a steady job, but was a proud father who spent much of his time with his two children -- Curtis Swift Jr., 8, and Journey Holloway, 3.

"He was just a very, very simple guy," Wilson said. "He was good to everybody, always opened his hands and his heart for others. He was a very good dad who took care of his kids."

Swift's older brother, Darryl Weaver, 17, was killed March 12, 2007, in a drive-by shooting. He was standing on the porch of a house near Cherry Street and Diamond Avenue SE when he was struck by gunfire.

Fredricks Smith, 26, was convicted of murder by a jury and sentenced to life in prison in connection to Weaver's death.

About a month after Weaver was shot, Wilson said Swift was shot in the liver while walking to his home on Burton Street SE. She said the shooter was in a vehicle, and was never identified.

Swift recovered, but his mom said he was assaulted three years ago when a man attempted to rob him by stabbing him repeatedly with a dull knife.

"I raised my boys to have respect but when they get out on the streets, peer pressure hits and it's rougher out here on the streets from when we grew up," Wilson said. "Now it's jealousy and gang stuff and it gets out of hand."

Swift was in the back seat of a vehicle traveling down Division Avenue in 2013 when one of the occupants fired a gun into a passing vehicle, according to court testimony. The shots killed Andre Davis, 20.

A police investigation into Davis' death resulted in the arrest of Cameron Wright, 26, on Jan. 19 -- the same day police found Swift dead in his home. Wright was charged with murder, but police were unable to get Swift's testimony before he was killed.

No one has been charged with Swift's death.

Two other occupants in the vehicle with Wright testified last week that the shots came from the passenger seat, where Wright was sitting. The group had all attended a party at Latvian Hall earlier that night, where a fight and shooting broke out.

Wright's case was bound over to Kent County Circuit Court on Friday. He remains jailed without the possiblity of bond while he awaits his trial.

As for Wilson, she said she's doing everything she can to protect herself and her surviving son.

In September, she said she survived an assault and attempted abduction after two men tried to get her into their vehicle in the area of Eastern Avenue and Burton Street SE.

She suffered panic attacks after the incident, and she said she's afraid to stay in Grand Rapids.

"I'm trying to get relocated with my son," Wilson said. "I don't know what will come out of this, but the people the police are dealing with are a bad group of people."OSCEOLA COUNTY, MI -- A Reed City man was arrested over the weekend after he exposed himself to hospital staff and brandished a knife while police said he was under the influence of methamphetamine.

The incident occurred shortly before 5:20 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital.

Police said the 41-year-old, who is a registered sex offender, was a patient believed to be under the influence of meth at the time of the incident.

After exposing himself to hospital staff, he forcibly removed his IV and medical equipment.

When contacted by the emergency room doctor, the suspect pulled out a folding-style pocket knife and "brandished it in a threatening manner at the doctor and two other staff members, police said.

The man fled the hospital on foot. Police located him running north on 220th Avenue, and chased him to the west shoulder of 220th Avenue, where he was cornered and taken into custody without further incident.

No injuries were reported at the hospital.

Police recovered the knife from the man during his arrest.

The man remains in custody at the Osceola County Jail. He's expected to be arraigned Monday, Feb. 12, on charges including felonious assault and fleeing a police officer.

Michigan State Police troopers were assisted by the Osceola County Sheriff's Department.ONTONAGON COUNTY, MI - The bodies of a 48-year-old man and a 6-year-old boy were found by rescue crews responding to a house fire Sunday in the Trout Creek area of Ontonagon County in the Upper Peninsula.

Sunday's fire started before 6:30 a.m. on Old Mill Town Road, according to WLUC.

The victims' names are being withheld while family members are notified.

Authorities said the cause of the fire remains under investigation. The house is total loss.

The Michigan State Police fire marshal's office has been asked to assist in the investigation.HOUGHTON, MI - It appears that Michigan Tech has built their way into the record books.

According to WLUC-TV 6, students at the Upper Peninsula school, as well as members of the public, rallied to build 2,228 snowmen in an hour to unofficially break a Guinness World Record. The record is unofficial until Guinness officials can review and confirm information submitted by the school.

"It's a little cold today, so a lot of our participants were kicking at the snow to get big chunks from underneath and just building upon them," John Nowosad, MTU Undergraduate Student Government Events Chair told the TV station.

"We had to have three separate balls for every snowman so that they would count, and that was a challenge because the snow wasn't super packable."

The current record of 2,036 was achieved by Drama 24 Unhandy Handyman at Zuriyama Observation Field, in Akabira, Hokkaido, Japan, on Feb. 28, 2015.

The "Snowman Left Behind" event was hosted on Feb. 10 by MTU's Undergraduate Student Government at Sherman Field on the school's campus in Houghton. Snowmen had to be at least 3-feet tall, and have eyes, nose, and arms.

Posted by Matipon Tangmatitham on Saturday, February 10, 2018LANSING, MI - With customer complaints about rising energy costs pouring into the inboxes of state legislators, State Rep. Gary Glenn, R-Midland, is hosting a public hearing to investigate concerns.

The State House Energy Policy Committee hosts the public hearing from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 13, in Room 519 at the Anderson House Office Building, 124 N. Capitol Ave., according to the Michigan House Republicans website.

Citizens are encouraged to speak at the hearing and a representative from Consumers Energy will also attend, Consumers spokesman Brian Wheeler said.

Glenn also invited representatives from the Michigan Public Service Commission, the Attorney General's office and AARP, he said in a Facebook post.

Glenn is the chairman of the House Energy Policy committee.

"We're hearing about concerns from residents across Michigan. Many electricity bills are skyrocketing this winter - reportedly doubling or tripling in some cases -- and we need to find out why," Glenn said in a post on the Michigan House Republicans website. "It is our job as legislators to help hold public utilities accountable, and a hearing like this is a vital step in that process."JACKSON, MI - The winter storm that wreaked havoc throughout southern Michigan during the weekend had rescue crews responding to six times the usual amount of crashes throughout Jackson County.

Police and rescue crews responded to 63 crashes and assisted 38 motorists stuck in the snow throughout the county during the Feb. 9-11 storm, according to Jackson County Central Dispatch numbers.

The storm dumped upwards of 9 inches of snow Friday, Feb. 9, in the Jackson County area, bogging down plow trucks and public services, according to the National Weather Service.

"Obviously the 911 center and deputies were extremely busy, (but) everyone did a fantastic job handling the additional weather-related call load along with all the other calls for service," Undersheriff Christopher Kuhl said.

By comparison, there were only 10 crashes and 12 motorist assists the previous weekend, Kuhl said.

We are riding with a plow truck driver along I-94 on this snowy morning. Posted by Jackson Citizen Patriot on Friday, February 9, 2018

Of the total number of crashes, there were more than 20 alone on I-94 Friday and Saturday during the storm, according to police blotters.

Every school in Jackson County was closed ahead of the storm, and multiple winter weather warnings asking that motorists stay off the roads as much as possible were issued the day prior.

"We had good and accurate advanced weather information which I think led directly to a lower traffic or 'on-road' volume, which helped cut down on crashes," Kuhl said.

Among the crashes, police handled was an unusual slide off. Deputies checking on the incident at about 2 p.m., Feb. 9, were baffled when the car's three occupants fled from the vehicle as they approached, police said.

Police caught two of the three occupants and discovered one had a warrant and the other was a parole absconder, police said.

The vast majority of crashes were reported as property damage crashes, with only a handful having injuries, the data shows.

Heavy snow fell Thursday night and Friday and slowed, but continued, Saturday and Sunday in the Jackson area and across Michigan.

At any given time, 46 to 49 plow trucks were on the county primary and local roads, beginning at 4 a.m or 5 a.m. and working 12 to 14 hours.KALAMAZOO, MI - A dog that for many years comforted people as they grieved the loss of loved ones will herself be remembered Tuesday.

Betzler Life Story Funeral Home will hold an open house from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, for Hollie, a golden retriever that may have been the first therapy dog used by a funeral home in the state of Michigan.

She welcomed and visited with thousands of individuals and families over the last 16 years at the funeral home at 6080 Stadium Drive.

"Mention the Betzler name and chances are people will remember Hollie," said Patrick Bauschke, a funeral director at Betzler. "She happily greeted people at the door, mingled throughout visitations and services, and offered a calming and comforting influence on those who needed her most."

He said Scott Betzler, Hollie's owner, got the idea of using her as a therapy dog many years ago while he served on the board of directors of the Kalamazoo Humane Society. At the time, that organization offered a pet visitation program for nursing homes. Bauschke said the response to their program was so good, Betzler decided to incorporate it at the funeral home with Hollie.

"It was very different at the time to have a dog in a funeral home," Bauschke said. "But Hollie made it the most natural fit. She's worked thousands of funerals and visitations and helped countless people."

He said people experience a range of emotions as they cope with death and Hollie had a soothing effect on them. He said she had "an unmatched sense of knowing just who needed her and when."

"So many people have adored her, it is a time for people to come in and visit," Funeral Director Joe Buysse said. "We have so many people who say, 'I remember when I was here for Grandma or Uncle Charlie and she (Hollie) was here. She was a big comfort to me when I was a kid. Now I'm grown up.' It is amazing how she has touched so many people."

Hollie completed temperance training through the Kalamazoo Humane Society and was the first official funeral home therapy dog in the Greater Kalamazoo and Paw Paw areas. As such, she was a trailblazer and was featured in articles by the International Cemetery Cremation and Funeral Association, the Michigan Funeral Directors Association and the Kalamazoo Gazette.

She was often taken on visits to local senior communities, including Friendship Village and Kairos Dwelling Home. And she also visited elementary schools for book-reading sessions with children.

Taking over her role at the funeral home will be Ellie, an English Retriever who will be 3 years old on Feb. 21. She had been working alongside Hollie.

Asked who the funeral home expects to attend the open house, Bauschke said, friends, colleagues in the funeral home business, and some of the many people whose lives Hollie touched.

"We felt it only fitting that we send her off in the way she helped send others off," Bauschke said.

Information about Hollie is included in on the funeral home's website among biographies of the company's staff.

A memorial story about her has been posted there as part of the services included in the home's "Life Tails" Pet Cremation service.

"The whole cremation process mimics what we do with people," Buysse said.

The 2-year-old Life Tails Pet Cremation service is an effort to take care of people's pets "in a better way," he said.

"They are a part of our families and we want to treat them as such," he said.

Life Tails has primarily handled dogs and cats but has included a horse and can accommodate any pet, Buysse said.MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, MI -- Two adults and five children were displaced but unharmed when their house burned down Sunday morning.

Dispatchers reported a grease fire caused occupants of 2212 Reynolds St. to evacuate the two-story home at 10 a.m. All seven residents escaped the building unharmed.

The fire started when the residents left the kitchen unattended while cooking on the main floor of the two-story home. Flames were approximately 15 to 20 feet from the front door and fire quickly started venting from three sides of the house.

When crews arrived, the fire damage was already extensive, according to Fire Chief Christopher Dean.

"This fire like many others was totally preventable," Dean said in an email to MLive/Muskegon Chronicle. "Year after year we see cooking fires destroy people's homes needlessly."

A video of body camera footage posted by Dean Sunday evening shows firefighters dousing the flames through the front door. Dispatchers reported the blaze was extinguished before noon, but the house was a total loss.

The fire is estimated to have caused $35,000 in damage to the structure and $15,000 to contents inside the home.

The American Red Cross will be providing assistance to the family and 1-800-Board-Up secured the structure after the fire.

The homeowners did not have insurance, Dean said.ORLANDO, Fla. -- Detroit Tigers star Miguel Cabrera and the woman suing him for child support will appear in court Monday afternoon as a judge considers her request for temporary relief.

The hearing at Orange County Circuit Court will be closed to media and the public.

Belkis Mariela Rodriguez, a 35-year-old Orlando resident, filed a paternity suit against Cabrera in August after she said that Cabrera abruptly cut back on child support payments for her two children that he fathered.

Rodriguez has filed a motion for temporary child support and attorney's fees.

The judge will also hold a case management hearing with both sides, which is designed to determine unresolved issues and keep the case moving forward.

In Florida, both sides are required to submit to mediation in an effort to resolve the dispute out of court. The most recent mediation conference took place on Jan. 29.

"No agreement was reached," the mediator wrote in his report to the judge that was filed this week.

Pitchers and catchers report to the Tigers spring training facility in nearby Lakeland on Tuesday. Cabrera must report with other position players no later than Feb. 18.MT. PLEASANT, MI -- As we get ready to watch Casey Webb of "Man v. Food" take on the DC Challenge (9 p.m. Feb. 12, 2018, Travel Channel) I thought to myself.....how tough can it be?

It sounds doable:

-3 foot-long chili dogs

-More than 1 pound of fries

-8 onion rings

-20 oz. drink

All in 25 minutes!

Maybe I was fooling myself. But I was willing to give it a try.

On Monday, Feb. 5, I traveled to Mt. Pleasant to meet restaurant owner Paul McFall, a 28-year-old from Grand Rapids who actually opened the restaurant his senior year as a business student at Central Michigan University.

He based his business on his love for popular GR eateries such as Yesterdog in Eastown and the Dog Pit in downtown Grand Rapids, and the fact there was nothing like it in downtown Mt. Pleasant.

Since opening in 2012, business has been booming, and he has brought a new energy to the Mountain Town where other businesses/food carts and trucks have opened in the last few years.

He offers a great product (Dearborn Sausage, 100% pork, natural casing hot dogs), with more than 20 gourmet options (MacDaddy is the top seller), and beer! In October he added an extensive list of Michigan craft beer, which has been an instant hit.

With MLive photographer Henry Taylor along for the ride, I did my best to beat the DC Challenge.

I finished all three of my foot-long chili dogs in about 12 minutes. But the fries were my downfall.

Check out the video.

Cost for the challenge is free, if you complete it. Otherwise it's $25.

McFall said there have been 179 loses, and only 10 wins.

Check out the show tonight to see if host Casey Webb of "Man v. Food" can complete the challenge.

Dog Central is located at 111 E Michigan St, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858.

More info at dogcentralmp.com.

If you're interested in other food challenges, a couple years ago I compiled a list of Michigan's Most Extreme Food Challenges and took on Papa Piccione's 5lb. stromboli challenge. I failed.The build-up towards Valentines Day is always a difficult time at WorldTempus. Not because we are all single and in search of love, but because we never know when to publish our selection of Valentines Day watches. Do we wait, like the well-prepared lover, to surprise you with the perfect selection on the day itself? Or should we offer a selection a few days before, to cater for the gentleman who, as the cliche goes, buys everything at the last minute? As a compromise, we are doing both, so we start the week with a selection of Valentines watches from Cloe Mugny. I will be back on the day itself with an unusual selection of mens watches.

"Valentines Day is the day when you remember that Cupid was a lousy shot." Milton Berle

The Swiss watch industry is only too happy to play up to such stereotypes, with its communication around Valentines Day largely skewed towards ladies watches. I dont recall seeing any promotion this year for a gents watch for Valentines Day. TAG Heuer should be lauded for bringing equality into its specially curated selection for men and women, but the approach raises a couple of important questions:

Who is buying the watch as a Valentines Day gift?

Is it the man in the relationship, the woman, or both? For me, Valentines Day has always comprised an element of surprise, whether its a single red rose whipped out from behind the back or a surprise romantic weekend away. Ah, finally, theres the word: romantic! This requires either a little bit of planning and thought or complete spontaneity. If a man is buying a watch for his lover, is he really just looking for a smaller version of a mans watch, as TAG Heuer is offering us? And if the woman is buying, is she, by the same token, just looking for a scaled-up version of what she has on her wrist? Of course not! I know my wifes taste in watches and she knows mine. It would be as ridiculous of me to expect her to wear a ladies size of my divers watch as it would for her to expect me to wear a larger, more masculine version of what she has on her wrist. So why do watch brands think that we would?

Elsewhere on the site today you can read an interview with Peter Stas, CEO of Frederique Constant, who bemoans the Swiss watch industrys attitude to smart watches, suggesting that it needs to be careful. Whether its about smart watches, e-commerce or Valentines Day, the reproach seems familiar: the industry is all too often caught playing catch up. But there is hope! Head over to Google and search for Valentines Day watches. Depending on your search preferences and the country in which you are using Google, on the first page of results, among the usual red-themed watches for ladies you will find an article touting Valentines Day watches for men. Unfortunately for watch brands its a news website and its three years out of date. By the end of this week, there should be at least one more topical article in these search results.The Future of Europe Telecommunications Market to 2025 - Analysis and Outlook Mobile, Fixed Line and Broadband Sectors - ResearchAndMarkets.com

The "The Future of Europe Telecommunications Market to 2025 - Analysis and Outlook of Europe Mobile, Fixed Line and Broadband Sectors" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The research work strategically analyzes Europe telecommunications market, examining the recent trends, drivers and challenges across diverse dimensions such as growth, demand, pricing, competition, consumer behaviour, infrastructure, policies and others.

The study also provides in-depth analysis of segment wise telecommunications including mobile, fixed line and fixed broadband services. All key markets in the region along with their individual market trends, outlook and operators are included in the research.

The number of subscribers and penetration rates are forecast for each of the sub-segment including mobile, fixed landline and broadband segments from 2005 to 2025 for the following countries-

Europe Countries - Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia,Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Romania, United Kingdom

Europe telecommunication revenues, investment and infrastructure details are also covered in the report. Further, emerging business environment in Europe together with comparison to five competitive benchmark countries are included, to assess the country's prominence on regional front.

On the competitive analysis front, leading companies along with their market shares are identified. Further, key business strategies of market leaders, their tariffs and SWOT profiles are included. In addition, the research work forecasts the demographic and economic drivers of Europe that enable strategy planners to formulate their pricing and branding strategies.

The report also includes latest telecommunication market developments, mergers, acquisitions and launches, spectrum availability, tenders and other aspects are analyzed.

Key Topics Covered:

Executive Summary Europe Telecom Market-Strategic Analysis Europe Telecom Market Outlook Europe Telecom Competitive Environment Europe Countries Telecom Industry Benchmarking Europe Economic And Demographic Outlook To 2025 Competitor Analysis Recent Industry Developments In Europe Countries Telecom Markets Appendix

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/pztmwd/the_future_of?w=4

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005913/en/[February 12, 2018] The Future of Eurasia Telecommunications Market to 2025 - Analysis and Outlook of Mobile, Fixed Line and Broadband Sectors - ResearchAndMarkets.com The "The Future of Eurasia Telecommunications Market to 2025 - Analysis and Outlook of Eurasia Mobile, Fixed Line and Broadband Sectors" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The research work strategically analyzes Eurasia telecommunications market, examining the recent trends, drivers and challenges across diverse dimensions such as growth, demand, pricing, competition, consumer behaviour, infrastructure, policies and others. The study also provides in-depth analysis of segment wise telecommunications including mobile, fixed line and fixed broadband services. All key markets in the region along with their individual market trends, outlook and operators are included in the research. The number of subscribers and penetration rates are forecast for each of the sub-segment including mobile, fixed landline and broadband segments from 2005 to 2025 for the following countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey Eurasia telecommunication revenues, investment and infrastructure details are also covered in the report. Further, emerging business environment in Eurasia together with comparison to five competitive benchmark countries are included, to assess the ountry's prominence on regional front. On the competitive analysis front, leading companies along with their market shares are identified. Further, key business strategies of market leaders, their tariffs and SWOT profiles are included. In addition, the research work forecasts the demographic and economic drivers of Eurasia that enable strategy planners to formulate their pricing and branding strategies. The report also includes latest telecommunication market developments, mergers, acquisitions and launches, spectrum availability, tenders and other aspects are analyzed. Key Topics Covered: Executive Summary Key Findings

Eurasia Telecom Market Overview Eurasia Telecom Market-Strategic Analysis Trends Shaping the Future of Eurasia Telecom Industry

Key strategies being Implemented by Market Leaders

Telecom Revenues in Eurasia Countries

Telecom Investments in Eurasia Countries

Market Drivers

Market Restraints Eurasia Telecom Market Outlook Eurasia Telecom Competitive Environment Market Shares by Company

Regulatory Bodies and Their Role in Industries Eurasia Countries Telecom Industry Benchmarking Overall Ranking

Demand Index

Infrastructure Index

Growth Index Eurasia Economic and Demographic Outlook to 2025 GDP Forecast, 2005-2025

GDP per Capita Forecast, 2005-2025

Population Forecast, 2005-2025

Unemployment Trends in Eurasia Countries Competitor Analysis Recent Industry Developments in Eurasia countries Telecom Markets Appendix For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/2pzj3h/the_future_of?w=4 View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005991/en/

[ Back To www.mobilitytechzone.com\broadband-stimulus's Homepage ]Ambassador of Cyprus to Cairo Khris Moritissis held a meeting Sunday with Tareq Radwan, head of the Egyptian parliament's committee on foreign relations.

A statement issued by the committee said "Radwan welcomed the visit of the Cypriot ambassador to the Egyptian parliament, affirming that bilateral relations between Cairo and Nicosia are strong and that both seek to achieve their mutual interests on the regional and international levels."

The statement added: "The Cypriot ambassador expressed concern over the Turkish escalation in the Mediterranean."

"We have concerns about this escalation, but Egypt and Cyprus have already signed a maritime boundary demarcation agreement, and this has paved the way for exploring and producing gas, and so they (Turkey) do not have any power to direct any threats to our agreement or our interests," the statement said.

For his part, Radwan told reporters that an Egyptian parliamentary delegation will visit Cyprus after the end of presidential elections next month.

"We want to reinforce relations with Cyprus at all levels," said Radwan, adding that "preparations are under way to form a joint parliamentary Egyptian-Cypriot Friendship Association."

Radwan said Turkey's objection to the Egypt-Cyprus deal is based upon the grounds that Ankara refuses to recognise the government of Cyprus.

"But as all world countries recognise the Nicosia government, Turkey will not be able to take any action against the agreement," Radwan said.

Egypt warned Turkey last week not to breach Egyptian sovereignty in the East Mediterranean region, vowing to defend its maritime borders and interests there.

Ahmed Abu Zeid, Egypt's foreign ministry spokesperson, said in a statement 7 February that Egypt would not tolerate any violation of its sovereignty and interests over the economic zone in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Abu Zeid confirmed that Cairo had ratified the Cyprus deal with several international organisations, including the United Nations.

"No party can dispute the legality of the deal, which goes in line with international law," Abu Zeid said.

Abu Zeid's warning came two days after Turkish Foreign Minister Mevult Cavusoglu said Ankara does not recognise a maritime border demarcation agreement between Cyprus and Egypt.

"We do not recognise this agreement and we plan to explore oil and gas in the Eastern Mediterranean region," Cavusoglu said.

The agreement, signed in 2003, allows both Egypt and Cyprus to explore oil and gas in their economic zones and territorial waters in the East Mediterranean region.

Italian company Eni in 2015 discovered what was considered as the eastern Mediterranean's largest gas field off Egypt's coast. The so-called "Zohr" field was officially inaugurated in January and is expected to produce 2.7 billion cubic feet of gas a day by the end of 2019.

On Sunday, a number of Egyptian MPs attacked Turkey, accusing it of funding terrorist operations in Egypt.

Independent MP Mostafa Bakri said Turkey, as the largest supporter of the banned Muslim Brotherhood organisation, is trying its best to destabilise Egypt and its economic interests.

"We got news that they are trying to impede the work of the Italian company Eni in the East Mediterranean," Bakri said, adding that "both Turkey and Qatar give a lot of support to Muslim Brotherhood-linked terrorist organisations in many Arab countries, particularly Egypt and Libya."

On Sunday, Cyprus said the Turkish military was obstructing a drill rig contracted by Italy's Eni from approaching an area to explore for natural gas.

The Saipem 12000 drill ship had been heading from a location south-southwest of Cyprus towards an area southeast of the island when it was stopped by Turkish warships on Friday, Cyprus said.

Short link:

Sudarshan Sukhani of s2analytics.com told CNBC-TV18, "Midcaps are likely to outperform in this leg of the up move. Apollo Hospitals is a buy, the stock has been doing well after a mini bear market of its own. It has now come out of that correction and is probably looking higher."

"Interglobe Aviation is a buying opportunity, it is not just a crude prices which are also giving it some good affect but otherwise also the sense is that a small trading range is breaking on the upside."

"I think L&T is likely to lead the infra sector and it should be on everybodys portfolio. So, look to buy midcaps and selected largecaps."

"I think the idea is to sell Yes Bank. There is no need to add more. I would exit. Unfortunately the stock has now become an underperformer among private sector banks. So, focus on maybe HDFC Bank which is the best or even ICICI Bank."

"I have shares in ICICI Bank that is a disclosure. I would suggest sell this and shift to the other larger private sector banks," he added.Sudarshan Sukhani of s2analytics.com told CNBC-TV18, "I am mainly on the buy side today and there will be some volatility intraday but I would still prefer to be a buyer."

"Bata India which is a buy again after that sharp correction. In Cipla there was a big decline and that decline was bought into. It is on the verge of a breakout on the upside. That means it is a positional buy apart from of course a day trade."

"We have Hindustan Unilever and Tata Elxsi, both are buy on dips opportunities. They are coming and standing at support levels. I would be a willing buyer there."

"Bharti Airtel which is a short sell, but today primarily the focus is on buying," he added.

"There are two stocks now - one is Bharat Forge and the other is United Spirits , both are looking good for buying today."Ashwani Gujral of ashwanigujral.com told CNBC-TV18, "Tata Steel is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 700, target of Rs 745."

"Rural Electrification Corporation is also a buy with a stop loss of Rs 150, target of Rs 164."

"Ceat is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 1600, target of Rs 1675."

"Bajaj Finserv is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 5180, target of Rs 5340."

"Reliance Industries is also a buy with a stop loss of Rs 908, target of Rs 930."

"JKumar Infra is a buy with a stop loss of Rs 334, target of Rs 360," he added.

: Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd5) Currently, best liquid funds are providing returns between 8 to 10 per cent.

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Public sector Canara Bank will raise up to Rs 4,500 crore through issuance of shares to investors, including FIIs, QIBs or NRIs.

The bank, in a regulatory filing, said it will place the proposal at the proposed extraordinary general meeting scheduled on March 1 for getting approval for "raising of capital of up to Rs 1,000 crore in addition to Rs 3,500 crore approved by the shareholders of the bank, thus aggregating in all up to Rs 4,500 crore from investors other than the government".

The bank said the proceeds will be utilised to meet the capital requirements of the bank and the growth in its assets, primarily loans and investment portfolio due to the growth of the Indian economy and for other general corporate purposes including meeting the expenses of the issue.

This capital raise plan is in addition to the proposed Rs 4,865 crore that the lender will get as capital infusion from the government in lieu of preference shares that will also be taken up for approval at the EGM on March 1.

Last week, the bank had said that it will obtain shareholders' approvals for the capital infusion of Rs 4,865 crore by the government.

Stock of Canara Bank closed 2.05 per cent up at Rs 327.95 on BSE.live bse live

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Reliance Infrastructure (RInfra) today said the Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved sale of its integrated Mumbai power business to Adani Transmission in a Rs 18,800 crore deal.

RInfra and Adani Transmission had signed a definitive binding agreement for 100 per cent stake sale of the integrated business of generation, transmission and distribution of power for Mumbai in December 2017, RInfra said in a statement.

According to the statement, total consideration value is estimated at Rs 18,800 crore. The transaction is expected to be completed by March 2018.

RInfra will utilise the proceeds of this transformative transaction entirely to reduce its debt. This is the largest ever debt reducing exercise by any corporate.

This monetization is a major step in RInfras deleveraging strategy for future growth.

Reliance Infrastructures Mumbai power business (known as Reliance Energy) is Indias largest private sector integrated power utility distributing electricity to nearly 3 million residential, industrial and commercial consumers in the suburbs of Mumbai, covering an area of 400 sq km, it said.

It caters to a peak demand of over 1,800 MW, with annual revenues of Rs 7,500 crore with stable cash flows.

RInfra will focus on upcoming opportunities in asset light EPC (engineering procurement and construction) and defence businesses, it added.American aerospace manufacturer Pratt & Whitney has told CNBC-TV18 that it has suspended the production of troubled A320 engines. The company says this is an interim measure, taken after engine issues impacted thirty-two A320neo aircraft, across the world.

These include some aircraft operated by Indias Indigo and Go-Air as well.

Watch accompanying video of CNBC-TV18s Ashpreet Sethi for more details of these developments and also know what it could mean for Indias aviation sector.According to the EOW, the accused colluded with the former promoters of Religare Enterprises, Malvinder Mohan Singh and Shivinder Mohan Singh. (Image: Reuters)

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Fortis Healthcare, India's second largest healthcare provider on Monday sought 15 days extension to declare second and third quarter results of FY18 as the statutory auditors informed company that the audit process may not be complete before the stipulated date of the board meeting.

Fortis board of directors were scheduled to meet and approve results for Q2 and Q3 on Tuesday.

Fortis said the reports about recent developments at the company has led statutory auditors to enhance scope of audit resulting in a delay.

While the normal audit process was going on smoothly, after the aforesaid news items, our interaction with Auditors indicate that the audit process may not complete before the stipulated date of Board meeting, Fortis said.

Fortis said it acknowledges a thorough review, considering just and equitable in the interest of governance and investors at large.

Reports have emerged that Deloitte - the statutory auditor of Fortis refused to sign Q2 accounts of the company.

Deloitte told Moneycontrol that it's unable to comment on client-specific matters, as it is "bound by confidentiality obligations".

The healthcare provider said the resignation of Singh brothers from the board has created an impact on completion of audit process.

The said resignations will reduce the strength of the Board from 7 to 5 and a discussion on this will also happen at the aforesaid meeting, Fortis added.

Fortis said the board meeting tomorrow will go on as scheduled.

The company also said it has received communication from BSE on February 8 directing the company to pay the fines levied for non-submission of un-audited financial results for the Quarter ended September 30 amounting to Rs 65,98,890.

The company said it has paid the amount to both the stock exchanges today.

Fortis added that it is in final stage of closure of definitive agreements with regard to its proposed transaction of acquisition assets of Business Trust at Singapore and involvement of team in the same is equal.

Fortis in November agreed to buy back the real estate assets that house its 14 existing hospitals and four upcoming projects from Religare Healthcare Trust (RHT) for Rs 4,650 crore, including Rs 1,152 crore of debt.

The transaction involves Fortis Healthcare acquiring the 49 percent stake it currently doesnt own in Fortis Hospotel from the Singapore Exchange-listed business trust. Fortis Hospotel runs two hospitals: Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi and Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon.

ICRA downgrades Fortis loans worth Rs 1170 crore

In another development - the rating agency ICRA has downgraded company's loans worth Rs 1170 crore.

The agency cited the disclosures about the advances extended by the company to promoters Malvinder Singh and Shivinder Singh, referred as Singh brothers.

The rating action takes into account the disclosure about the advances extended by FHL to related parties which in ICRA's views has a significant impact on FHL's credit and liquidity profile, ICRA said in a statement.

ICRA had been deriving comfort from FHL's strong liquidity position; with the above mentioned development, the company's financial flexibility is expected to be constrained, ICRA added.

The rating agency said that the repayment of the said instruments by these entities has already commenced but considerable amount is still outstanding, and the timing and quantum of recovery of the same cannot be ascertained.

The long term rating for Rs 250 crore non-convertible debenture programme, Rs 105 crore fund-based limits, and Rs 195 crore term loans has been revised from ICRA A plus to ICRA A minus.

Further, the short-term rating for Rs 600 crore commercial paper programme and Rs 20 crore non-fund-based facilities has been revised from ICRA A one plus to ICRA A two plus.

ICRA said the ratings continue to be on watch with negative implications.

ICRA will continue to closely monitor the developments and take rating action, as and when more clarity emerges, the rating firm said.

Fortis is one of Indias largest healthcare services provider in the country, with 4600 beds spread across 45 healthcare facilities including projects under development and over 346 diagnostic centres.

Troubles surfaced at Fortis after the company indicated that considerable funds were transferred to third parties, which were later classified as promoter entities and the current outstanding amount towards such entities is Rs 473 crore.

Fortis said the same loans are adequately secured and added that the promoters have agreed to repay the loan by the end of June this year.

Last week Fortis two promoter directors Malvinder Singh and Shivinder Singh tendered resignations to the board citing insulating the company from the promoters' ongoing legal fight which was hurting the performance.

Last month, the Delhi High Court had allowed Japanese pharma firm Daiichi Sankyo to collect Rs 3,500 crore (USD 500 million) award money from the Singh brothers.

A Singaporean tribunal had adjudged in favour of Daiichi that the Singh brothers had concealed information about Ranbaxy regulatory problems with US FDA, while selling its shares.

Moneycontrol has earlier reported that Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and stock exchanges may soon issue notices to the company to find out if there is any digression with respect to related party transactions.

Shares of Fortis Healthcare declined 6.07 percent on Monday to close at Rs 139.30, while the benchmark Sensex rose 0.87 percent to end 34,300.47 points.live bse live

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IDBI Bank has decided to withdraw the nomination of S K Mohapatra from the board of debt-ridden Jaiprakash Associates.

In a BSE filing, crisis-hit Jaiprakash Associates informed that Subrat Kumar Mohapatra, the chief general manager of IDBI Bank, has resigned from the board.

IDBI Bank has decided to withdraw the nomination of Subrat Kumar Mohapatra from the board of directors of the company with immediate effect, the filing said.

Mohapatra has ceased to be director of the company with effect from today.

Last year, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) had admitted the application by an IDBI Bank-led consortium seeking resolution for Jaypee Infratech, the subsidiary of Jaiprakash Associates, under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

Jaypee Infratech has been taken over by a NCLT-appointed Insolvency Resolution Professional (IRP) for recovery of bad loans. IRP Anuj Jain had in October 2017 issued a public notice seeking applications from entities with regard to resolution of JIL.

Several players have submitted expression of interest (EOIs).

Jaypee Infratech, which is into road construction and real estate business, has constructed the Yamuna Expressway, connecting Delhi and Agra.

Jaiprakash Associates, the flagship firm of the Jaypee Group, is into cement, construction, hospitality, power and real estate businesses. The company has divested its assets, including cement plants, to reduce debt.Former Vice Chairman of the NITI Aayog, Arvind Panagariya, in an article for The Economic Times, has sounded alarm over the government's new trade template for India following the 2018-19 Union Budget.

Panagariya said that the increase in duties on a number of products, ranging from kites and footwear to cellular mobile phones and vehicles in the recent Budget has ended his optimism.

The former NITI Aayog vice chairman further quoted revenue secretary Hasmukh Adhia as having said that the duties have been levied, not to raise revenue, but to provide protection to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

According to Panagariya, the message coming from the revenue secretary is clear -- more tariff hikes are on the way.

Panagariya said that the argument that protection would help MSMEs needs to be carefully scrutinised.

"Did we not do nearly everything to promote our small-scale enterprises in the past? Until 2001, we had a near ban on the imports of most products produced by them. The enterprises also had the exclusive lock on the production of most of the items they produced via the small-scale industries (SSI) reservation. We followed these policies for 50 years and yet produced no notable success," he wrote, adding that "In the end, both import ban and SSI reservation were ended as a part of our reform programme."

The former vice chairman of NITI Aayog also said that "unless we work on a direct removal of these hurdles (domestic regulatory policies), we would keep hurting our own consumers through higher tariffs without preparing our entrepreneurs to challenge the competitors in the global marketplace, which, is what is ultimately needed to build the New India."

Panagariya also pointed out how the "enlightened" bureaucrats post 1991, "went on to systematically liberalise the economy" and said that the new generation of bureaucrats "seems to have now replaced its more enlightened predecessor. It is on course to erect the wall of protection all over again."

"Defenders of the revival of protection would probably argue that this time it is different, because the economic environment today is not the same as that under licence-permit raj in the 1970s and 1980s," Panagariya wrote.

"But haven't we heard this before? Didn't our bureaucrats tirelessly tell us prior to 1991 that the experience of Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan didn't apply to us because we are different?" he added.The government is calling it the "world's largest government healthcare scheme"--- the showpiece announcement of the Budget 2018 was a healthcare assurance scheme.

The target will be 10 crore poor families and they will get health insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per year. But, the Budget set aside only Rs 2,000 crore and this drew flak from the opposition.

The government explained that Niti Aayog will get into a deliberations with the state government to thrash out the fine print and the think tank estimates that this scheme could cost Rs 10,000 crore.

The government is working with an estimate that the cost for every family will be Rs 1,200 in terms of premium. However, according to a CLSA report, they estimate that for this scheme to take off, the Centre needs to shell out Rs 2,500 per family and that puts the cost of the entire scheme at over Rs 24,000 crore.

So who will foot the bill? The Centre hopes that it will pay up to 60 percent of the total costs and the states can spend the remaining 40 percent. The government believes that several states can subsume their current health schemes and this scheme will then become more cost-efficient.

One state model that government is closely looking at is Rajasthan --- the state's health scheme covers those below the poverty line and provides coverage of up to Rs 3.5 lakh.

But, there has been controversy over the benefits of this scheme and the fact that it is not reaching everyone. The Rajasthan model uses 2 levels of identification --- one is a separate insurance card and the others is any photo ID like Aadhaar, Pan Card, Driver's License etc., but Ration Cards are not allowed and this, many believe, has led to wide-spread exclusion of the poor.

So, is this new health scheme the pill that India needs and how can the government avoid elimination of those in need. How can private hospitals and insurers be held accountable?

An eminent panel of experts like Kiran Mazumdar Shaw of Biocon, Shailaja Chandra, Former Health Secretary for Delhi Government, Monika Halan, Consulting Editor of Mint, Sandeep Patel, CEO of Cigna-TTK Health Insurance and Joydeep Roy, Partner Insurance at PWC and CNBC-TV18s Yash Jain who was following up on this scheme discussed all this and more.Egypts Higher Administrative Court has set Saturday, 17 February to review a lawsuit filed by lawyer Tarek Al-Awadi asking the against the National Elections Authoritys (NEA) to reject Ghad Party Chairperson Moussa Mostafa Moussas candidacy in the upcoming presidential elections.

Al-Awadis suit calls for Moussa to be disqualified from the 2018 presidential race, charging that the candidate does not hold a university degree, which is a basic requirement for candidacy in the elections.

Moussa dismissed Al-Awadi's accusation, affirming that he fulfilled all conditions and has presented to the NEA all documents required to run the presidential elections.

Abdel-Rehiem Ali, the lawyer for Egypt's State Lawsuit Authority who represents the NEA in the case, demanded two days ago that the court reject the suit, contending that only other presidential candidates may contend others' eligibility between 12-21 February.

Two candidates have been approved as applicants by the NEA to run in Egypt's upcoming elections: incumbent President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and Ghad Party head Moussa Mostafa Moussa.

The NEA will announce the names of final candidates on 24 February.

In the past weeks, several well-known public figures who had been considering a run ended their bids for various reasons.

President El-Sisi, whose current term will end in June, won the 2014 presidential elections in a two-man race with nearly 97 percent of the vote over leftist politician Hamdeen Sabahi.

Voting in the 2018 presidential election is scheduled for 26-28 March, with runs-offs, if they are to take place, set for 24-26 April.

If no run-offs are necessary, the winner will be announced on 2 April.

Short link:

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The battle to gain control of the Essar Steel has boiled down to two contenders Lakshmi Mittal-led ArcelorMittal and Numetal Mauritius as the deadline to submit bid ends on Monday, according to a report in the Economic Times.

The other bidders in the fray so far include Tata Steel which is not likely to bid very aggressively, while Vedanta and JSW Steel are unlikely to submit binding offers leaving it a two-way fight between the two, the report said.

Rewant Ruia-led Numetal Mauritius is a special purpose vehicle (SPV) which has Russian Bank VTB as the largest shareholder with 40 percent stake and Ruias holding around 26 percent stake. The other partner in the SPV is Tyazprom Export (TPE) of Russia, a construction engineering and management consulting company which specialises in steelworks.

The report said that being a minority partner in the SPV will not violate the related party clauses of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). Numetal is likely to have bid in the region of Rs 35,000-40,000 crore be more aggressive

Numetal is likely to offer an all-cash offer that could garner more attention from the lenders as they will get less cash component and need to take a haircut from other bidders.

The Russian government owns 60.9 percent in VTB Bank that arranged a facility agreement to provide up to USD 3.9 billion for refinancing debt at Essar Global Fund Ltd in preparation for the sale of Essar Oil.

Essar Steel was one of the 12 stressed account identified by the Reserve Bank of India last year to go for Insolvency and bankruptcy proceeding.

Essar Steel operates a 10-million tonne plant in Gujarat and owes more than Rs 45,000 crore to lenders.Media buying major GroupM, part of global advertising conglomerate WPP Group, today said it agreed to acquire leading digital creative agency The Glitch, for an undisclosed amount.

The city-based Glitch will continue to operate as an independent brand, GroupM said in a statement today.

"The communications ecosystem in India has evolved dramatically in the last few years... With The Glitch, we found a partner that brings exciting creative and content skills that can leverage our unique assets to create effective solutions for our clients," said CVL Srinivas chief executive officer at GroupM.

The Glitch has delivered campaigns for Unilever, Netflix, Oyo Rooms, Shutterstock, Tinder etc.

"We will be able to use GroupM's strong expertise in data and analytics to help craft more insightful campaigns for brands," said Rohit Raj, co-founder and creative chief of The Glitch.

The company has offices in Mumbai and New Delhi and employs over 200.live bse live

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L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering, a wholly-owned subsidiary of engineering giant Larsen & Toubro, has secured a Rs 2,200-crore contract from Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra Petroleum Operations Company.

L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering has signed "a major field development EPC contract with Al Dhafra Petroleum Operations Company Ltd, Abu Dhabi, UAE, with a value in excess of Rs 2,200 crore", Larsen and Toubro stated in a BSE filing today.

Al Dhafra Petroleum is a joint venture between ADNOC and Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC) and GS Energy, which is represented by Korean Abu Dhabi Oil Consortium (KADOC).

The scope of the contract includes engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning of flow lines, gathering facilities and pipelines to transfer crude oil and gas from Haliba fields to processing facility at Asab and installation of 132 kV and 33 kV overhead electrical transmission lines to supply power.

Larsen and Toubro was trading 1.79 per cent up at Rs 1,353.15 on BSE.Markets regulator Sebi has reorganised the committee that advises it on matters related to secondary market, including suggesting steps to improve market safety, efficiency and transparency.

The Secondary Market Advisory Committee is chaired by IIM Ahmedabad Professor and former whole-time member of Sebi, Jayanth R Varma.

Besides Varma, the expert panel consists of 16 members, including top executives of nation's leading stock exchanges, government representatives and officials of Sebi, as per the latest update with the markets watchdog.

Members of the committee include BSE's Ashish Kumar Chauhan and NSE's Vikram Limaye -- managing directors and CEOs of their respective stock exchanges.

Other members of the panel are: ICICI Securities MD and CEO Shilpa Kumar; UTI Mutual Fund MD Leo Puri; Edelweiss Group Executive Director and Group COO Himanshu Kaji; Kotak Securities MD Kamlesh Rao and Associate Professor of Finance at ISB Krishnamurthy Subramanian.

The committee is mandated to review the developments in secondary market, recommend measures for changes and improvements in market structure in view of the impending changes, look into investor protection measures in the stock exchanges and suggest improvements.

Moreover, the expert panel also suggests Sebi on measures for reducing the transaction costs, changes if required in the risk management and regulatory framework in secondary market, among others.live bse live

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The euphoria on the D-Street witnessed in the whole of the year 2017 witnessed a slowdown in the first two months of the year 2018 which led to a huge correction in both large as well as mid & smallcap names.

As many as 20-30 bluechip names are trading almost 50 percent discount to their 5 year average of price to earnings multiple and can be considered attractive for investment purpose. Stocks which are trading below their 5-year average include names like BEML, Eicher Motors, Bosch, SBI, Hero MotoCorp, HPCL, TCS, IOC, REC, Infosys, Bajaj Auto and Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.

Let us first understand what is PE ratio? The price to earnings ratio which is also known as PE multiple is calculated by dividing the market value of share by Earnings per Share (Market Price/EPS).

It indicates the amount an investor is willing to pay for each rupee worth of earnings of the company. Price-earnings (P/E) ratio is one of the most widely used value indicators and quite prominently used by investors while investing.

Low PE multiple compared to average is a good sign because it also suggests that earnings have also started to bounce back and the stock is not entirely momentum driven.

Stocks with low PE ratio are perceived as having a cheaper current price, hence expected to generate a higher return in the subsequent period. There are plenty of stocks which are available at a deep discount price which is part of value investing with low PE and combining it with other factors such as Management, Industry and Profitability i.e margins, Ritesh Ashar  Chief Strategy Officer at KIFS Trade Capital told Moneycontrol.

Among the stocks, DHFL is trading at a discount of 79% with respect to 5 years Avg PE looks to be a very good bet for the long term and value investors who are looking for a balanced portfolio with low risk, he said.

Ashar further added that other such names which should be accumulated at these levels having low PE with respect to 5 Years Avg PE are SBI, Chennai Petro, BEML, Sunteck, NCC, and TCS.

Most of the top tier bluechip names are trading well below their 5-year average PE. But, investors should focus on stocks in those sectors which are likely to outperform.

A sector which has done well in last two-three years and its heavyweight available at discount will be an opportunity for investors. Stocks like SBI, TCS, Eicher, and NCC does offer opportunities for investors to buy them at lower levels, Mustafa Nadeem, CEO, Epic Research told Moneycontrol.

PE multiple signify the past performance if the company; however, for taking investment decisions investors should also look at the future earnings potential of the company. This can be done by calculating forward PE.

For calculating forward PE, analysts use earnings estimates to determine what the relative value of the company will be at a future level of earnings. If the forward P/E ratio is lower than the current P/E ratio, it means analysts are expecting earnings to increase.

On the other hand, if the forward P/E is higher than the current P/E ratio, analysts expect a decrease in earnings.

Stock quoting below the 5-year average may look attractive on price but its the future outlook on earning that matters the most. It is advisable to see future growth visibility rather than solely looking at past P/E, Hemang Jani, Head - Advisory, Sharekhan told Moneycontrol.

It is the future outlook on earnings that matters and not the current discount to past earnings. Ideally one should look at both - current performance along with likely growth in the next 12-24 months for investment decisions, he said.

Other parameters to track other than PE:

PE Multiple can be used for deploying money but at times it is also used for position sizing in a bullish market by institutions or MFs.

There are many other parameters which investors should keep in mind before deploying cash or accumulating stocks, because PE multiple itself has some limitations, suggest experts.

Since PE Multiple has limitations it alone may not be satisfying the criteria. To add more value to it investors should use Earnings per share, Sector PE and relative valuations can be applied. For a conservative investor Earnings yield can help to see stocks that can do well along with benefits of dividends, said Nadeem.

Jani of Sharekhan is of the view that along with commonly used parameters like PE EV/ EBIDTA, PEG ratio, Price/Book, ROE etc. One may look at P/B For financial stocks, embedded value for insurance companies.

For companies have multiple businesses SOTP (Sum of the parts) methodology is used. Holding company are valued at a certain discount (20-50%, discount rate may vary), he said.The IPO of Aster DM Healthcare opens an option to invest in an emerging healthcare chain in India, which has a substantial presence in GCC countries. The integrated healthcare provider has exposure in various healthcare segments like hospitals, clinics and pharmacies. The company is positioned to benefit from the positive outlook for healthcare post the budgetary announcements and allocations in India in the longer term.

However, we see numerous risks associated with both operational and geographic uncertainties which the company is exposed to. The company has started the restructuring and remodeling process but any benefits are yet to flow in. It comes with a high leverage on the balance sheet along with low returns and low margins due to operating issues in key geographies. The issue stands fully priced in which leaves little on the table for the investors, limiting any near term upside.

The company 

Incorporated in 2008, Aster Healthcare is a private healthcare provider operating in GCC states (Gulf Cooperation Council) like UAE, Oman, Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, and is expanding its presence in India and Philippines. The company's Indian operations are headquartered in Kochi. It is headed by Dr. Azad Moopen, the promoter, chairman and managing director of the company.

IPO Details 

What we like about Aster -

Strong presence in GCC countries  Aster has a strong brand presence in the GCC countries and is positioned to benefit from the expected growth in the healthcare segment due to an early mover advantage in those regions. Further, the presence of pharmacies at multiple locations across various GCC states also enhances the visibility of the companys brands. Given the majority revenues flow in from middle-east, Aster enjoys a high ARPOB (average revenue per operating bed), much higher than that of Indian peers.

Rapid growth  Aster has rapidly grown from 149 operating facilities in 5 countries in FY13 to 323 operating facilities in 9 countries in 1HFY18. The bed capacity increased manifolds from 1419 beds in FY13 to 4754 beds in FY17. During the same period the ARPOB (average revenue per operating bed) increased at a CAGR of 9 percent in GCC countries and 29 percent in India. The topline has grown by almost 24 percent in the last 4 years.

What makes us cautious on the IPO -

Highly levered balance sheet  With rapid expansion the company has accumulated high debt on its balance sheet. Even post the IPO and the scheduled repayment, the debt equity ratio does not fall substantially. The high leverage would limit the companys expansion capabilities in the future.

Low margin and low return ratios  Aster has built the aggressive topline expansion at a high cost and at low margins. At 5.7 % the operating margins are substantially lower than other well-known listed peers. Moreover, less than 1 percent ROCE (return of capital employed) is a cause of caution. The net profits have been negative in the last two years along with the current years 1H.

High exposure to GCC states  More than 80 percent of the revenue flow in from GCC countries where the regulatory environment for ownership and business remains strict and stringent. The company is exposed to high risk arising from any changes in the regulatory structure in these countries.

Benefits of restructuring not yet flowing in  During the past years the company had to take one time hit on revenues owing to unforeseen risks in the GCC countries like Saudi Arabia. Post these, the management has strategically shifted the business model to reduce dependency on government. However the benefits of the change in business model are yet to flow in.

Future growth positioned in relatively lower ARPOB regions  Over the past years the company has enjoyed high ARPOB given majority revenues were coming from the Gulf countries. However, in the coming years the company plans to focus expansion in India where the ARPOBs are relatively lower. So in the long term they are positioned for a lower average ARPOB.

Peer analysis and valuation

The company has shown aggressive topline growth compared to peers over the last few years. However, the same has not reflected in the profitability. At the upper price band of 190 the issue is priced at an EV/EBITDA of 37x which is considerably above the average peer multiple of established brands at 23x. The debt equity ratio at 1.5x is also substantially higher than that of its listed peers and even after the planned debt repayment from the issue proceeds the is no significant reduction in the debt equity profile. This is a point of caution and the fixed costs suppress the return ratios.

Given the stretched valuation, multiple operating and geographical risks, along with high debt and a low returns and margin profile, we feel there is little on the table for he investors from the current issue and this IPO can be given a miss.

Follow @Ruchiagrawal

For more research articles, visit our Moneycontrol Research Page.The software industry lobby Nasscom has once again expressed concern over the falling fund flows into startups and called for added focus to galvanise the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) had last November shared its concern over the taxation issues in the startup scene, which led to a steep 50 per cent fall in angel investments and a significant decline in series A funding.

"While angel investments are the critical first piece that gets a startup going, series A fund is the one where the angel investors really make their exits and make money. That's what incentivises them to continue their investments," Nasscom president R Chandrashekhar said.

"We had pointed that out and felt that corrective measures are needed. However, we did not find that being addressed in the Budget," he added.

It can be noted that the taxmen had demanded Rs 110 crore income tax from the e-tail major Flipkart, which the company had challenged in the appellate tribunal and has reportedly lost the appeal.

The department's claim was based on its findings that the company was showing losses by offering huge marketing discounts. According to them, the ecommerce major had a profit of Rs 408 crore in FY16 and thus a tax liability of Rs 110 crore, while the company had claimed a net loss of Rs 796 crore for the year.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, however, recently had issued directives to the income tax department to not adopt very coercive methods in respect of angel investments.

"We need to be far more focused on the things that are needed to galvanise the startup and entrepreneurial ecosystems," he said.

Over 1,000 startups were added in 2017 in the country, according to a Nasscom-Zinnov report published last November.Twelve terrorists have been killed in northern and central Sinai on the fourth day of a comprehensive anti-terrorism operation waged by military and security forces, Egypt's army spokesperson Tamer El-Refaie said in a statement on Monday.

This was the fifth communique released by the Egyptian Armed Forces since Comprehensive Operation Sinai 2018 was launched on Friday morning.

El-Refaie said 92 suspects and others wanted for crimes were captured.

The communique added that the Egypt's Air Force destroyed 60 terror targets used by terrorists in Monday's operations.

"The army destroyed and seized 20 4x4 vehicles, 27 motorbikes, 30 hideouts and ammunition storehouses.

Army engineers also detonated 27 IED's that were planted in the area of operations," the statement said.

Meanwhile, the Egyptian Navy Forces continued patrols to secure the country's shores.

Joint police and army units have conducted 398 operations in all parts of the country to maintain security, the communique said.

Operation Sinai 2018 was launched on Friday morning, involving land, naval and air forces, as well as the police and border guards, targeting "terrorist and criminal elements and organizations" in northern and central Sinai, as well as parts of the Nile Delta and the Western Desert.

On Sunday, the army spokesperson said that army units killed 16 terrorists and arrested four others.

El-Rafei said Operation Sinai 2018 was launched to implement the plan of comprehensive confrontation with terrorist and criminal elements and organizations in North and Central Sinai, and in other areas in the Nile Delta and desert areas west of the Nile Valley."

Egypt has been battling in the past four years a terror campaign, led by Ansar Beit Al-Maqdis, based in the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula that has carried out deadly attacks against security forces and civilians.

The army said it has killed hundreds of suspected terrorists in military operations.

In late November, following the deadly terror attack on a North Sinai mosque that left 305 worshippers killed, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi ordered the military to defeat terrorists in North Sinai within three months.

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Muscat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting with Sultan of Oman, Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, at Bait Al Baraka, in Muscat, Oman on Sunday.PTI Photo(PTI2_12_2018_000016B)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met with industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business.

Modi, who arrived here yesterday from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, also met Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman, Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

The two leaders discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

"Four countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership," Kumar said.

Later, the prime minister will visit the historic Shiva Temple of Muscat. The temple is one of the oldest of the region and is located in the Matrah area near Sultans Palace.

The temple was constructed 125 years back by Merchant Community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

The temple has three deities -- Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

He will also visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before heading back to Delhi.Moneycontrol News

Singapore Exchange on Monday opened trading for its entire India suite of products, including Nifty, a few days after Indian exchanges announced they would stop sharing data with foreign exchanges.

The exchange reassured international traders that trading on products based on Indian securities would continue till August 2018.

"Our licence agreement with NSE will ensure the continuity of listing and trading our Nifty suite of derivative products till August 2018 at a minimum", the SGX said in a statement.

"SGX wishes to assure market participants that we will take all measures to maintain orderly trading and clearing of SGX India equity derivatives for our global clients. The market for our entire India suite of products including Nifty will open and operate per normal on Monday, 12 February 2018," the Singapore bourse said.

This morning, the SGX Nifty was trading up 0.4 percent higher at around 8 am India time. The Indian Nifty opened at about the same level an hour later, reiterating the Singapore index's reputation here as a forerunner of the Indian market.

SGX and NSE are long-term partners and have collaborated since 2000 to develop and internationalise Indias capital markets. SGX will work jointly with NSE towards solutions for global investors, including developing solutions from NSEs International Exchange (NSE IFSC Limited) in Gujarat International Finance Tech (GIFT) city  International Financial Services Centre.

On February 9, Indian exchanges  National Stock Exchange, BSE and Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India  announced they would stop the commercial licensing of their indices and market data with a number of foreign exchanges and other business partners.

In the joint statement on Friday, India's top bourses asserted that such agreements had led trading to "migration of liquidity from India, which is not in the best interest of Indian markets."

SGX in its statement on Sunday said that it would develop and launch new India-access risk management solutions to allow global participants in SGX India equity index family of derivative products, to execute their investment activities with continuity.

The Singapore bourse said details for the same will be announced shortly.

Recently, discussing the exchanges' move, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chief Ajay Tyagi told CNBC-TV18 that he "did not think the move is retrograde".

Tyagi was speaking on concerns that the move was anti-competition and whether it stifled market efficiency.Taxi aggregator Ola owned food tech firm Foodpanda India on Monday announced its plans to invest Rs 400 crore in the India market to strengthen its network. The investments come at a time when Ola-owned Foodpanda India is trying hard to compete with market leaders Swiggy and Zomato.

It's interesting to note that Bangalore based Swiggy last week raised about USD 100 million led by Naspers.

The investment by Ola into Foodpanda India would help it in scaling up technology. The company also plans to hire 25000 delivery riders in the next 12 to 15 months.

It will also focus on creating transparent, more efficient and time saving procedures for delivery logistics.

In December 2017, Ola acquired foodpanda with a commitment of infusion of funds to the tune of Rs1300 crores from parent ANI Technologies Pvt Ltd, which is backed by Japan's Softbank.

Pranay Jivrajka, CEO, Foodpanda India said, Creating a strong delivery ecosystem backed by technology is one of the most fundamental needs of the Indian food tech industry. We at Foodpanda recognize this and are investing Rs 400 crore to further strengthen our delivery network across all the metros and other key cities.live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Shares of CG Power and Industrial Solutions added 4 percent intraday Monday on order win by subsidiary company in Indonesia.

Avantha Group Company, CG Power Systems Indonesia, a wholly owned subsidiary of CG Power & Industrial Solutions, has bagged an order from Indonesian state utility PT PLN (Persero) for manufacturing and supply of 64 units of Power Transformers valued at IDR 744 billion (USD 55 million).

This project is the first of its kind to be funded by Islamic Development Bank to support PLNs ambitious goal to enhance its Transmission Grid performance.

The project will be completed by December 2018 and is going to play a critical role in its ongoing 35GW Fast Track Program.

CG Power will complete the supplies against the order by December 2018.

The scope of work includes site survey, design, manufacturing, supply and installation of 64 units (4400 MVA) of Power Transformers in PLN regions spread from Aceh to Papua over Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Papua and Malukku Islands of Indonesia.

"We thank PT PLN Indonesia for this significant win which reinforces their trust in CG. This win further endorses our commitment towards making world class products for Global markets, said K. N. Neelkant, CEO & Managing Director, CG, Avantha Group Company.

A meeting of the board of directors of the company is scheduled to be held on February 12, to consider and approve, amongst other businesses, the unaudited financial results, on standalone as well as consolidated basis, of the company for the 3rd quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2017.

At 10:05 hrs CG Power and Industrial Solutions was quoting at Rs 90.80, up Rs 2.35, or 2.66 percent on the BSE.

Posted by Rakesh PatilAurobindo Pharma Ltd.

live bse live

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Shares of Vivimed Labs rose 3 percent intraday Monday as company signed distribution pact with Ukraine-based company Alter Ego.

Vivimed Labs Unit 1 FDF manufacturing facility located in Hyderabad, post certification by Ukraine FDA, has successfully registered 8 products in anti viral, pain management and cough suppressants segment.

The company has now inked a distribution agreement with Alter Ego LLC, Kieve, Ukraine which has more than a decade of presence in Ukraine, Russia and CIS region.

The company is expecting revenue upwards of USD 10 million for FY19 from CIS region.

Sandeep Varalwar, Executive Director, Vivimed Labs said, This agreement between Vivimed and Alter Ego is in line with companys vision of growth in CIS markets.

The relationship will go a long way in establishing a robust growth in CIS markets and Vivimed will continue to add more new products to its range leveraging its strength in API manufacturing for new molecules, he added.

At 10:40 hrs Vivimed Labs was quoting at Rs 87.40, up Rs 1.95, or 2.28 percent on the BSE.

Posted by Rakesh PatilVijay Mallya

Embattled liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya has lost another legal battle linked to his now- defunct Kingfisher Airlines after the UK High Court awarded Singapore-based BOC Aviation an estimated USD 90 million in claims.

The latest case involving the 62-year-old businessman, whose extradition case over alleged loan defaults amounting to around Rs 9,000 crores returns to Westminster Magistrates Court in London on March 16, is related to the leasing of aircraft by Kingfisher Airlines dating back to 2014.

Justice Picken, in a judgment dated February 5 at the Business and Property Courts of the High Court in London, ruled that "the defendants have no real prospect of successfully defending the claim".

The defendants in the claim brought by BOC Aviation in Singapore and BOC Aviation (Ireland) Ltd have been named as Kingfisher Airlines Ltd and United Breweries (Holdings) Ltd.

"We are pleased with the judgment but would not like to comment further at this stage," said a spokesperson for BOC Aviation in Singapore.

The legal claim relates to a leasing agreement between Kingfisher Airlines and aircraft leasing company BOC Aviation involving four planes, of which three were delivered.

The delivery of the fourth was reportedly withheld due to unpaid amounts due in advance under the lease arrangement. BOC Aviation claims that the security deposit, which is a course of redress in such matters, was also inadequate to cover the payments that Kingfisher was "contractually bound" to make, resulting in the High Court claim in London.

In his order, Justice Picken awarded BOC Aviation the amount overdue along with interest payments and legal costs, which overall amounts to nearly USD 90 million.

"The Second Defendant [United Breweries] shall be jointly and severally liable with the First Defendant [Kingfisher Airlines] to pay the Claimants [BOC Aviation] half of the said costs liability," the court order notes.

There was no immediate response from Kingfisher.

The latest ruling comes weeks before Indias extradition case against Mallya is set to come up for one of its final hearings before Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot on March 16, with a judgment expected in May.

The businessman remains on a 650,000-pound bail bond, extended until April 2 at the last hearing in the extradition case in January.

Mallya had been arrested on an extradition warrant by Scotland Yard in April last year and has since been appearing for his extradition trial, which opened on December 4 last year to establish if he can be forced to return to India to face charges of fraud and money laundering involving Kingfisher Airlines default of bank loans worth nearly Rs 9,000 crores.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), representing the Indian government, has claimed that the evidence they have presented confirms "dishonesty" on the part of the businessman, who acquired the loans through misrepresentation and had no intention of repaying them.

Mallya's defence team has deposed a series of expert witnesses to try and establish that the default by Kingfisher Airlines was the result of business failure within a wider context of a global financial crisis and that its owner had no "fraudulent" intentions.

When the trial returns next month, the judge will hear concluding arguments on the admissibility of some of the evidence presented by the CPS, on behalf of the Indian authorities.

Meanwhile, Mallya faces parallel litigation around an estimated 1.5-billion-dollar worldwide freeze order on his assets.

According to court documents submitted at the UK High Court last year, the claim brought by 13 Indian banks is expected to come up for a two-day hearing in the Queen's Bench Division of the commercial court in England's High Court of Justice some time after April 11.The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) on Monday further cut the ceiling prices of the most commonly used drug-eluting stent (DES) by 5.8 percent as it pursues the policy of price controls on coronary stents citing larger public interest.

After the latest revision, the price of DES that constitutes 95 percent of the market is now capped at Rs 27,890.

The government raised ceiling price of bare metal stents (BMS) by 5.5 percent to Rs 7,660.

Both the prices were excluding GST. The government charges 5 percent GST on stents.

The ceiling price fixed is applicable till March, 31, 2019 unless revised by another notification by NPPA.

The ceiling prices are inclusive of 8 percent maximum permissible trade margin.

NPPA warned that trade margin in excess of 8 percent shall be construed as violation of the provisions of the DPCO, 2013 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

The government also declined to sub-classify stents, a demand made by multinational stent makers and a section of private hospitals and doctors.

There is no case for sub classification of DES in the light of lack of enough clinical evidence to support superiority of one DES or other; and as a result there has been no change in classification of coronary stents, NPPA said.

NPPA, which met on Monday, followed by extensive deliberations in the preceding week with the stakeholders decided to continue with the policy of price regulation of stents in larger public interest till the country is under acute and emergent threat of cardiovascular diseases requiring PTC interventions and to prevent the cardiac stents.

NPPA also held its view that if stents are not kept under price check  the market may fall back to its old archaic state characterized by exorbitant margins leading to exploitative pricing, unethical profiteering and an extraordinary failed market system causing unwarranted and unreasonable economic burden on out of pocket expenses of hapless patients and their families.

A stent is a tiny expandable metal scaffold to open up narrowed or weakened arteries to ensure blood flow preventing heart attacks.

The price revision became imminent after the last years price cap order lapsed today.

NPPA last years February  has imposed pricing caps to bring down the prices of stents by as much as 85 percent under Schedule I of the DPCO, 2013 - citing to check unethical profiteering and exploitive pricing, and also to ensure fair, reasonable and affordable price for coronary stents.

NPPA found out that the trade margin enjoyed by distributors for sale to hospital ranged anywhere between 13 percent and 196 percent, while the margin of hospital to patient was as high as 11 percent and 650 percent.

The government based its decision on a sub-committee report that recommended putting all types of stents, including the latest biodegradable stents, onto the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) list in April last year . Medicines and devices listed in the NLEM must be sold at the price fixed by NPPA.

According to the sub-committee report around 25 percent of deaths in India is attributed to Cardiovascular disease (CVD) Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the commonest CVD accounting for 90-95 percent of all CVD cases and deaths.

The sub-committee, consisting of cardiologists, policy makers, and public health professional observed that there is very high incidence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in India associated with high morbidity and mortality; and that CAD has become a major public health problem; and that Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) procedure requiring coronary stent implantation is an important treatment

In India, only about 3 out of 1000 coronary heart disease needy patients are treated with angioplasty compared to 32 in the US. As per the National Interventional Council (NIC) Registry data in 2015 a total of 3,53,346 angioplasties were performed and 4,73,000 stents were implanted in India. Angioplasty is the procedure of placing stent in an artery.

The All India Drug Action Network (AIDAN) a national network of several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that advocates a rational drug policy welcomed the development.

Stents are priced much lower in abroad, with growing volumes - the prices of stents should come down, said Malini Aisola of AIDAN.

Aisola also asked government to also look into the high prices of auxiliary devices used in angioplasties.

Despite governments best of intention  the reduction in stent prices havent been full passed on to the patient as many private hospitals following the price cap have pushed the package costs upwards to protect their margins.

This has been done mainly through hiking the cost of other consumables, doctors' charges, cath lab charges and the cost of angiography.

Multinational companies such as Abbott, Medtronics, Meril Lifesciences and Boston Scientific were opposing control of stent prices on grounds that it will stifle access of innovative and advanced therapies for patients.

The Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) - the lobby group of multinational or research-based medical devices companies have expressed disappointment over the government's decision.

"The decision is disappointing," said Pavan Choudary, Director General of MTaI reacting to NPPA's notification on stents prices.

"It will limit patient choice and the availability of innovative technologies in the market. The only saving grace in the order is NPPA's expression that it is open to receiving stakeholder views. Taking that in earnest, we will stay engaged," Choudary said.BSF

The terror attack on an Army camp here reflects the "failure and weakness" of the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said today suggesting that a "policy paralysis" prevailed in the country.

"We do not want to play politics over the attack at a time when terrorists from the neighbouring country are targeting our forces and their families in their homes. (But) why our army installations are being attacked one after the other which means that the Central government has failed," Azad told reporters here.

The former chief minister said his party was "saddened" by the terror attack on the Army camp at Sunjuwan which left five soldiers and a civilian dead.

"We are saddened by the attack which is the latest in a series of attacks in the past several weeks in which a number of our soldiers were killed or injured. Civilians are also getting killed and injured on borders. We condemn Pakistan and its forces for such actions," he said.

Azad said he visited the injured soldiers and their family members in the hospital this morning and expressed grief to the families of the martyrs and prayed for speedy recovery of the injured on behalf of his party leadership.

However, the leader of the opposition in Rajya Sabha said the attack reflects the "failure and weakness" of the policies of the government.

"Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) and Finance Minister (Arun Jaitley) talked about policy paralysis time and again. We want to know whether the policy paralysis is this time around or during our period," he said.

The Congress leader praised National Conference working president Omar Abdullah for disassociating from the action of one of his party MLAs in the legislative Assembly yesterday. He, however, criticized Speaker Kavinder Gupta's remark about Rohingya Muslims.

"With regret I am saying that one of the (NC) MLAs shouted Pakistan 'Zindabad' slogan but want to thank his party, National Conference, which disassociated from his action. Omar deserves praise for his prompt statement on the issue. It is very regretful that an MLA speaks like this," Azad said.

He added that like the statement of the MLA, the Speaker's statement on Rohingya Muslims was "equally irresponsible. The Army has made it clear that the terrorists belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JEM), he said.

"The irresponsible statements, whether by the Speaker or the MLA, are bound to divide the community," he said.

Asked about the stand of his party on the Rohingya settlers, he said the BJP had made it an issue, otherwise there was no input that any of them was involved in terror.

It is also part of the BJP's divide and rule formula, he alleged.

Earlier addressing the one-day convention of the party, he came down heavy on the BJP led NDA government and said it came to power by misleading people of the country on falsehood over security and other issues.

"The 56-inch chest has become the international prime minister and is least bothered and concerned over the happenings in the country. He has forget which country he is ruling. He is advising America, British, China and Japan," Azad said targeting Modi.

He said Jammu and Kashmir recorded highest ceasefire violations, killings of security personnel and civilians during the past four years.

Attacking the BJP, Azad said "they have exhausted all other weapons like security of the country, unemployment and farmers' issues, now they are out to divide the people in the name of religion," he alleged.

He said the incidence of rape had also assumed an alarming proportion and the government had miserably failed to deal with the problem.Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi case

A day after Shia cleric Maulana Kalbe Jawad said that instead of a mandir (temple) a vidyamandir (temple of education) should be constructed in Ayodhya, Minorities Commission chief Ghayorul Hasan Rizvi said that even if a mosque is built in the ancient city, Muslims will not go there as namaaz is no longer offered at the disputed land.

Muslims should show large-heartedness and give away the land. Hindu God, Lord Ram, is believed to be born there. The place holds great significance for the community, but not for us.

Some people have told me that namaaz is also not offered in that place. Even if a mosque is built, nobody will go there. We must understand this and work towards building mutual trust, said NCM chairman Ghayorul Hasan Rizvi.Egypt's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ahmed Abu-Zeid said on Monday that the ministry is following up on developments concerning an Egyptian fishing boat that was seized on 29 January to the north of Port Sudan.

The vessel was seized after it passed through a natural protectorate on its way back from Sudan to Egypt.

"The boat's crew were referred to the prosecution in Port Sudan, which formed a committee to inspect and review its papers and affirmed that the boat fulfills all maritime safety requirements as well as fishing and security permits," Abu-Zeid said.

"Egypt's general consulate in Sudan is communicating on legal procedures to have the boat released and its crew returned to their country," he added.

The Sudanese authorities are providing the crew with all the necessary care, including food and medical attention, according to the statement.

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A farmer input subsidy scheme in Telangana has left out tenant farmers from its purview as the scheme takes into account only land-owning farmers, reports Mint.

The input subsidy scheme, aimed at reducing farmer distress, promises to provide Rs 4,000 per acre to help farmers defray input cost like fertilisers and seeds. However, the scheme does not include tenant farmers.

The scheme's purpose is to provide input support and make land owners active farmers. That is why we are providing monetary benefits, a senior official from the states agriculture department said, adding that as of now there is no provision to include tenant farmers.

The scheme is slated to kick off in May, but it will be implemented once the state government completes its ongoing survey to verify and update agricultural land records.

The survey, which was supposed to be completed by December 2017, is expected to be completed in the next few months. The survey, which began on September 15, 2017, is being carried out in 10,733 revenue villages.

The official said there are about six million farmers across the state. The number of tenant farmers are not known. The non-inclusion of tenant farmers has drawn criticism from different quarters.

Experts said exclusion of tenant farmers beats the whole purpose of the scheme as huge chunk of land-owners lease out their farm lands to tenant farmers every year.

The targets are partial and the number of tenant farmers are much higher. A land owner already receives rent from the tenant farmer. If the crop is lost, then the latter bears that too. This is nothing but extra income to the land-owning farmers, Kiran Vissa from the Rythu Swarajya Vedika, an organisation that works on farmer issues in the state, told Mint.

The scheme has been criticised as land records may have not been updated. Telangana Joint Action Committee (TJAC) Chairman Professor M Kodandarm told said about 119,000 farmers have applied to regularise their land records, which have not been updated.

In the past, a person would sell or buy land based on a hand-written deed on an blank piece of paper. Even this has to be looked into, Kodandarm said.Arvind Panagariya, the Indian-American economist who served as the vice-chairman of the NITI Aayog, wrote a column for the Economic Times dissecting the Union Budget 2018. But what surprised observers was that Panagariya, who was the blue-eyed boy of the establishment, castigated the government's budget and said it signaled a return of the pre-1991 protectionist 'License Raj' of the Indian state.

"When GoI raised custom duties on a number of products in December 2017, as an eternal optimist, I took the view that this had been done for revenue reasons. But increases in duties on a long list of products ranging from kites and footwear to cellular mobiles phones and motor vehicles in Budget 2018 have ended that optimism," Panagariya wrote in his opinion piece.The Indian Institute of Management here (IIM-A) and the UAE-based BRS Ventures today signed an agreement to establish the premier B-school's first overseas extension center in Dubai.

The proposed UAE Extension Center will begin with executive education programmes that are relevant to the region and will include both open learning and customised training programmes.

"With the synergy, this partnership is expected to benefit both the organisations, besides benefiting the UAE regional business and governance," IIM-A said in a statement here without offering details on when the centre will be up and running.

The agreement was signed at the World Government Summit 2018, an annual event held in Dubai, that brings together leaders in government for a global dialogue about governmental process and policies with a focus on the issues of futurism, technology and innovation, the statement added.

"The IIM-A will provide the academic and training expertise, while BRS Ventures will facilitate all the required support, including infrastructure, industry links and logistics," it said.

Executive programmes of IIM-A are in high demand across industries and corporates, the institute said, adding based on the response and other factors, IIM-A-BRS will also consider rolling out other programs in UAE of longer duration.

"These programmes will be globally relevant to ensure that the cohort being trained is not restricted to any region and the learning environment is in an international cultural setting," it said.

"We are very happy to partner with BRS Ventures, given their distinguished services to the UAE as well as deep understanding of the region and its priorities. This will help IIM-A implement the planned activities and programmes successfully," the statement quoted IIM-A director Errol D'Souza as saying.

IIM-A and BRS believe that the Extension Center will be a major landmark to represent mutually beneficial collaboration between the two nations.

BRS Ventures manages portfolio in diversified businesses through its subsidiary companies and also owns and operates schools in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.Union Minister Harsh Vardhan said India is continuously improving its rank in the science sector and exuded confidence that one day it would lead all other countries.

About budgetary allocations to the science and technology ministry led by him, the minister hailed the "upward trend" in fund provisions to different departments under it.

Speaking to reporters, he claimed the NDA government's efforts have ensured that "brain drain" has started to convert into "brain gain" for the country as over 250 scientists have returned to India since the BJP-led alliance came to power and implemented schemes encouraging the change.

Department of Science and Technology (DST) secretary Professor Ashutosh Sharma, who accompanied Vardhan during the briefing, said the government has launched 'Accelerate Vigyan' scheme to train students and technicians in using machines in laboratories.

A web portal would also be made available to help people know the types of machines available in the laboratories in the country and how those can be booked, he said.

"We have scaled up in rankings (through science institutes). It won't happen sans any reason. We are no less than anyone... we are continuously improving and scaling up in ranks (in the field).

"And one day we will be above all, don't worry about it," Vardhan said in reply to a question on a report suggesting that the USA and China are investing more on science than India.

By scaling up in rankings, he was referring to the CSIR finding a place among 100 public institutes in the world in industry-relevant research.

Vardhan pitched for optimal use of available resources to solve the big problems that India faces.

He said budgetary allocation for science and technology is Rs 12,322.62 crore, while that for the earth science is around Rs 1,800 crore (total provision for the ministry of Rs 14,122.62 crore).

The allocation for research and development under the DST has gone up by 8 per cent (over revised estimate) compared to 2017-2018 fiscal, the minister said.

Similarly, allocation for the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), department of biotechnology (DBT) and ministry of earth sciences have gone up by 3.56 per cent, 6.7 per cent and 12.7 per cent respectively, he said.

Vardhan claimed that budgetary allocations to the departments saw a "big jump" over the last five years compared to those made between 2009-10 and 2013-14.

Sharma said the government's investment on research and development (R&D) was 0.4 per cent to 0.5 per cent of the GDP and claimed that the investment would go up once the industries invest more in R&D.

The DST secretary said least 200 workshops and training camps would be held in the upcoming financial year onwards to train students and technicians on using machines in laboratories.

Vardhan claimed that innovation and start-up activities have received big support during the NDA government's reign and business incubation facilities have almost doubled.

In 2018-19 alone, 15 new biotechnology incubators and 15 -20 new technology business incubators would be set up to incubate startups, he said.

In the 2018-2019 financial year, the agrometeorologial advisories would reach 50 million farmers from the present 24 million, Vardhan said.

"Biotech Kisan (farmer) is another such initiative which is assisting farmers in 15 agro-climatic zones. Similarly, thousands of farmers are getting benefitted under Aroma Mission for cultivation of aromatic plants," he said.Smart City

Out of the Rs 9940 crore released to 99 smart cities by the Centre, cities in Maharashtra have received the largest share of funds followed by Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu under the Smart Cities Mission, according to government data.

The Centre has so far released Rs 9939.20 crore to states for smart cities out of which Rs 1378 crore have been disbursed for cities in Maharashtra such as Pimpri, Nashik, Thane, Solapur, Nagpur, Kalyan Dombivali, Aurangabad and Pune.

Madhya Pradesh has received Rs 981 crore for works being executed in Kavaratti, Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Sagar, Satna and Ujjain.

Tamil Nadu has so far received Rs 848 crore for cities such as Tiruchirappalli, Tirunelveli, Thanjavur, Tiruppur, Salem, Vellore, Coimbatore, Madurai, Thoothukudi, Chennai and Erode.

Rajasthan with four cities-- Jaipur, Udaipur, Kota and Ajmer has so far received Rs 784 crore. Andhra Pradesh, whose four cities were selected, received a central assistance of Rs 588 crore, Uttar Pradesh with 10 cities received Rs 547 crore and Gujarat, whose six cities were chosen, got Rs 509 crore, the data indicated.

Delhis New Delhi Muncipal Corporation (NDMC) has received Rs 196 crore so far.

The total proposed investment in these smart cities is Rs 2.03 lakh crore.

This information was part of the responses to unstarred questions asked in Parliament. 99 cities have so far been selected. The Central government has released Rs 9939.20 crore to states for smart cities, this was the response to the question on the amount of funds released so far under the Smart Cities Mission.

To a question on whether most of the funds released under the Mission have been spent, the response was the progress of implementation depends on the round of selection as it takes around 15-18 months from the date of selection of a smart city to call tenders. As many as 2997 projects worth Rs 1.40 lakh crore have been identified for implementation by cities. Work is ongoing or completed for 716 projects worth Rs 21,873 crore.

The 100 Smart Cities Mission was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 25, 2015. Under the mission, the Centre allocates Rs 500 crore to each of the cities for implementing projects proposed by it. This amount is matched with a grant of the same amount by the respective state.West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee addresses during Youth Trinamool Congress rally at Damurjala Stadium in Howrah district of West Bengal on Friday. PTI

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today "requested" Alfred Ford, the great grand son of Henry Ford, to consider setting up a manufacturing unit of Ford Motor Company in the state.

She said Ford has stated that he will "look into" the request.

The chief minister made a pitch for the unit while she came to the Mayapur ISKCON temple in Nadia district, where she was greeted by Alfred Ford, the great grandson of Henry Ford, the founder of the US auto major.

"I have requested Mr Ford (Alfred Ford) to plan a new manufacturing unit here in West Bengal. They have one in Chennai. He said he will look into it," Banerjee said.

Asked whether he would consider her request, Alfred Ford, whose initiated name is Ambarish Dasa, told PTI, "I have told her that I really do not have very much to do with that anymore, but I will put in a word for her."

Ford India Pvt Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ford Motor Company, has an integrated manufacturing plant in Maraimalai Nagar near Chennai in Tamil Nadu.

The facility has an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles and 340,000 engines.

It was the first visit to the Mayapur ISKON temple by any chief minister of the state.

Ford meanwhile sought help from the Chief Minister for making the ISKCON Mayapur a world heritage centre.

"We will surely help them in that. I am so happy to coming here," Banerjee said.

She later said in a tweet that ISKON Mayapur will definitely be a new landmark in the religious tourism destination, not only in the state and the country, but also in the world.Asaduddin Owaisi, president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) party, has accused Moulana Salman Hussaini Nadwi of acting at the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create divide in the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).

Owaisi made a call on social media for a boycott for those people who encourage giving up of Babri Masjid.

According to an Indian Express report, Owaisi attacked Nadwi for suggesting a compromise on the Babri Masjid issue and said that he should not have gone against the board's stand.

Owaisi, while addressing a public hearing, asked people, "He (Nadwi) is saying that his proposal is to ensure peace and unity in the country. Should we also give up Masjid-e-Aqsa (Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem) for unity in Arab.

Continuing streams of allegations, the MIM president said that Nadwi had given a fatwa in support of terror group IS, which has killed numerous Muslims in Syria, Iraq and other countries.

Owaisi also dragged PM Modi's name in his heated speech, saying Modi you are giving political patronage to those who had given fatwa in favour of IS, he added.

Maulana Salman Hussaini Nadwi last week met with Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and told him that shifting of a mosque is possible in the Sharia. Ravi Shankar is attempting an out-of-court settlement in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute.

As a response to this, the AIMPLB took "action" against Nadvi after he disagreed with the board's views on the matter and approved his decision to quit the board.

AIMPLB member Qasim Rasool Ilyas said that Nadvi dissociated himself from the board's views and so he had to quit. "Now, he is a free man."

In his meeting with Ravi Shankar last week, Nadvi had said, "The atmosphere should be good (between the two communities).... There is permission for this in the Sharia. As per the Hanbali school of (Islamic) thought, a mosque can be shifted."

"We can shift the mosque. A grand mosque can be built... where a university can also be set up. Muslims should conserve their mosque, it does not entail fighting at the same place and taking it.The aviation regulator DGCA has ruled out grounding the Pratt & Whitney-powered Airbus A320Neo fleet despite the recurring serious safety issues with the faulty new engines.

Budget carrier IndiGo, which is the largest operator of these planes in the country, and GoAir being the other one, have already grounded three such planes following an emergency airworthiness directive from the European Aviation Safety Agency or EASA on this issue over the weekend.

"No (there is no such plan)," was the response of Director General Civil Aviation BS Bhullar in response to a query from PTI, seeking to know whether there was any move on the part of the regulator to ground the entire Pratt & Whitney-powered Airbus A320 Neo planes despite repeated serious safety glitches with the new engines of these planes.

It can be noted that this is in sharp contrast to the stance taken by the regulator during the Manmohan Singh government when Air India's Boeing 787 Dreamliners faced battery fire issues prompting DGCA to order grounding of all B-787s shortly after the US Federal Aviation Administration ordered so.

"Certainly, we will not fly the Dreamliners until the FAA and our DGCA give clearance," then aviation minister Ajit Singh had said on the grounding of these planes.

The EASA directive issued last Friday came in the wake of instances of the engines in-flight shutdowns and rejected takeoffs involving A320 Neo family planes.

Significantly, last time also, despite IndiGo reportedly facing 69 Neo engine (earlier ones) failures between March 2016 and September 2017 and GoAir too reporting a good number of in-flight disruptions on account of the engine woes, the DGCA did not take any tough stand.

Meanwhile, the American engine maker Pratt & Whitney in a statement said it was working with Airbus and its customers to minimise any "operational disruptions" in the wake of latest EASA directive even as further deliveries of these planes have already been put on hold.

"We, with the support of Airbus, are in close contact with customers to address an issue that is isolated to a limited sub population of engines. In India, more than 90 per cent of aircraft powered by PW1100G-JM engines remain in service. We are working with Airbus and our customers to minimise any operational disruption," it said.

"The product safety boards of P&W and Airbus, post- evaluating the PW1100G-JM engine issue, have decided that all Neo deliveries are on hold till further notice," IndiGo had said yesterday in a regulatory filing.

The issue impacts a limited sub-population of engines and IndiGo had to ground three of its aircraft in the interim, it had added.

On Saturday, a senior official at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation had said EASA had on issued an emergency airworthiness directive for A320 Neos fitted with PW1100 engines having a particular serial number.

Airbus has also issued an alert for providing instructions to de-pair the affected engines and discontinue extended range twin-engine operations for aircraft fitted with affected engines.Q20. "Congratulations," said Ron Daniel, "I'm very happy for the firm." That's all this dude needed to hear on the telephone while on vacation in Colorado (US). After 21 years of working for the world's most influential and prestigious management consultancy firm, this man had finally got his due. Completing most of his education with the help of scholarships, he passed out of New Delhis Modern School and was ranked 15th in the all-India IIT entrance test in 1966. At IIT-D, he earned not only a five-year mechanical engineering degree, but also met his future wife: Anita Mattoo, an electrical engineering student who was two years his junior. Who is he?

Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has introduced a gender-neutral honorific for its students in their certificates, making it Indias first institution to take such an initiative.

From now on, instead of just Mr, Ms, Mrs and Dr, there will also be Mx on the forms for the students details to be filled out before convocation, which is scheduled to take place in May 2018.

A second-year MA Criminology and Justice student, Sai Tejo, wrote to the administration asking for such a move. Sai told DNA that the idea behind such a rule is to make things easier for people who do not identify with the conformist gender rules of the society and want an alternative to Mr and Ms.

Sai was quoted by DNA saying, Gender non-conforming people or those who do not associate themselves with the gender binaries of male and female are often forced to pick a gendered salutation in application forms and documents. I wrote to the administration, requesting them to add 'Mx' which is a gender-neutral salutation that students can opt for and their graduation certificates will carry that title."

The institute approved Sais suggestion and included Mx in the list of salutations to be used in convocation certificates of students.

It was not sent out as an official mail, but the students were informed by the authorities and they have spread it through social network and personal messages.

Commending the institutes initiative, Harish Iyer, an equal rights activist, said that being called by a gender pronoun or prefix that one does not relate to is the worst thing to happen to anyone. I hope that other institutions, too, add it to their list.Muscat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting with Sultan of Oman, Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, at Bait Al Baraka, in Muscat, Oman on Sunday.PTI Photo(PTI2_12_2018_000016B)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said his visit to Oman and talks with the oil-rich Gulf nation's top leadership will impart a "substantial momentum" to all spheres of their bilateral strategic ties.

"This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come," Modi tweeted before concluding his two-day visit to Oman during which the two countries signed eight agreements, including one on enhancing defence cooperation.

"This visit has helped in building upon the centuries-old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations," Modi said.

"Thank you Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos (bin Said al Said) for your exceptional warmth, hospitality and friendship, as also your personal attention to details, that made my visit to Oman one of the most memorable visits I have undertaken anywhere, the prime minister said.

PM Modi also expressed gratitude to the Sultan and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection.

"We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman," he said as he concluded his three-nation visit to the Palestine, the UAE and Oman.

In a joint statement issued today, the two sides agreed that the visit of Prime Minister Modi to Oman helped in further consolidating and deepening the strategic partnership framework and further development of excellent bilateral relations in all spheres, to serve the common interests of the two countries and their peoples.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the final leg of his three-nation tour, led talks with Sultan Qaboos last night on a wide range of issues. During the meeting, several aspects of the existing cooperation between the two countries and means of promoting the good relations between them were discussed, the official Oman News Agency reported.

"Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of "honest and hard working" Indian nationals in the development of Oman.

After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation. According to Oman News Agency, it envisages the services of Duqm Port and dry-dock for maintenance for Indian military vessels.

Secretary-General of Oman's Ministry of Defence Mohammed bin Nasser al Rasbi said there are many areas of cooperation with the Indian side, whether in the field of joint exercises, training or courses, as well as exchange of experiences between the two sides and some defence purchases and projects.

India's Ambassador Indra Man Pandey said that signing the MoUs will promote cooperation between the two friendly countries.

He said that the Indian companies have a strong presence in Oman and have significant investments in the Omani free zones and ports in Suhar and Salalah. He said Indian investments are estimated at USD 1.8 billion in two projects in Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZD).

The volume of trade exchange during this year is expected to reach USD 5.5 billion, Pandey was quoted as saying.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

Modi today met Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

Modi and the two leaders exchanged views on intensifying ties in the areas of energy, trade and investment, food security, defence and security, mining and other sectors.

He also had a meeting with leading business leaders and investors.

Modi also offered prayers at the 125-year-old Shiva Temple, one of the oldest in the region. He also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque in Oman.

In Oman, there are over eight lakh Indians and they constitute the largest expatriate community. The prime minister had also addressed the Indian community last night.

Bilateral trade rose 3.6 per cent from USD 3.8 billion in 2015-16 to USD 4 billion in 2016-17.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.Egypt's foreign ministry spokesperson has offered Egypt's "deepest condolences" to Russia over the crash of a Saratov passenger plane near Moscow on Monday, with the loss of 71 lives.

In a statement issued late on Sunday, ministry spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zeid said, "Egypt extends its condolences to the Russian people and the families of the victims," adding that Egypt "stands by the Russian government and people in harsh times.

The passenger plane, en route from Moscow to the Russian provincial city of Orsk, and operated by Russia's Saratov Airlines, came down near Moscow on Sunday.

All 71 people on board were killed, the office of Russia's transport prosecutor said.



Short link:

The Shiv Sena today dared the BJP- led Goa government to crack down on foreigners staying in the coastal state, instead of lashing out at domestic tourists, a section of whom was dubbed as the "scum of the earth" by a minister.

Claiming that terrorism jeopardised job avenues in the tourism industry of Jammu and Kashmir, the Sena said Goa minister Vijai Sardesai's remarks against the people of one region was "irresponsible".

Last week, Goa's agriculture minister Sardesai had described a section of domestic tourists as the "scum of the earth" and urged the state to look for "qualitative and not quantitative" improvement in tourists.

Later, his cabinet colleague Manohar Ajgaonkar threatened to "chase away" visitors who don't take care of "Goan culture and Goanness".

Taking a dim view of it, the Sena said, in an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', a minister of the BJP-led Goa government has blamed North Indians for turning Goa into a "gutter".

But the state runs on tourism and it fails to keep a check on the law and order situation, the Sena said.

"There are some areas in Goa where the local police do not dare to go, as they are dominated by Russians and Nigerians... We dare the Goa administration to go to those villages and take control of them," it said.

In a jibe at Sardesai, it said though Goa had gone through an oppressive rule of the Portuguese for years, there are some ministers who prefer that regime as compared to the North Indians visiting the state.

"What sort of nationalism is this?" the Sena asked.

Referring to Jammu and Kashmir, it said jobs of taxi and auto-rickshaw operators and those running 'shikaras' in Dal lake, hotels and restaurants are affected due to terrorist activities.

In this backdrop, Sardesai's statement against people of one region is "irresponsible," the Sena said. It is the responsibility of the Goans to reject such statements of their ministers, it added.Out of the eight state legislative assembly elections, three are of northeastern states Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura. Abuzz with political activity, these states have been host to both Congress and BJP rallies as the parties prepare to battle each other during state elections in 2018.

Tripura

To be held in a single phase, Tripura's elections will be conducted on February 18 and the votes will be counted on March 3 in its 59 constituencies.

The Bhartiya Janata Party decided to fight against the incumbent chief minister Manik Sarkar of the CPI(M) led government in Tripura, who has been in power since 1998, and has shown immense confidence that it will form the next government in the state. The party will field 51 candidates in the polls.

The Manik Sarkar government released its manifesto, focusing mainly on education and highlighting its work in the state over the past two decades that it has been in power. The party focused on growth in agriculture, the income of the state, education and literacy rate of the citizens.

In its manifesto, titled Vision Document 2018, to show its stress on development rather than caste, the BJP focused on improving health infrastructure and insurance, employment opportunity in every household, implementation of Seventh Pay Commission among other ambitious projects and promises.

The vote share of the BJP in Manipur has been very poor in the past elections.

Therefore, Narendra Modi and his party have worked for more than a year to build force against the Left in Tripura. The rallies of the Prime Minister and other ministers from the Centre were very successful and saw a huge turnout in Agartala and many other parts of the state.

The Left dismissed the campaign saying it is pro-business and anti-people, but it has garnered positive reactions from a significant amount of people, as Modi tried to impress Sarkars main voters.

Experts believe that people are responding to BJPs fresh set of promises, as opposed to the defensive stand of the Left. Sarkar government has been credited with the removal of AFSPA and reducing militancy, but has been criticized for its stand on the states partition. The separate land Tipraland movement has been led by Indigenous Peoples Front of Tripura (IFPT), which became allies with BJP. This has caused a crack in the Lefts stronghold in the state.

After continuous attacks on the incumbent government by the BJP, many think it may be possible for BJP to achieve victory in this important northeastern state.

Meghalaya

The state legislative assembly elections in Meghalaya are scheduled for February 27 and votes will be counted on March 3. The total number of electorates in the state is 18,31,487 with a total number of 3,082 polling stations, in 60 state constituencies.

Indian National Congress has ruled Meghalaya most part of the last 4 decades. Never as a majority party, Congress has been in alliance with the United Democratic Party of Meghalaya, whose member Mukul Sangma has been the Chief Minister of the state since 2009.

After losing Assam and Manipur, Congress is steadfast on securing Meghalaya. It has been worrisome for Gandhi that post internal conflict in Sangmas last term, senior leaders of Congress have quit from their positions in the state. Congress not being in power in the Lok Sabha is another setback since the state relies on the Centre for most of its funds.

Even though the party has problems, Congress has produced many important and senior leaders in the state and that its strength lies in its past, according to a senior journalist David Laitphlang. But many regional parties are inclined towards BJP, rather than Congress.

BJP did not win a single seat in Meghalaya in 2013 elections and has fielded candidates in 47 seats for the state this year.

Bhartiya Janata Party is confident of winning in the state and it will not be making any coalition before or after the polls with any other party, according to senior party official Rajiv Pratap Rudy.

With BJPs entry in the race, religion has become one of the main factors for the citizens. Many church leaders in Meghalaya have voiced opinions about BJP being a predominantly Hindu-supporting party. The party also organized meetings with many important religious leaders of Meghalaya to win over the citizens.

Senior journalist and editor of Shillong Times, Patricia Mukhim, is of the opinion Congress has become shaky in the state but it will not be a cakewalk for BJP to win in Meghalaya.

This state is crucial for the beleaguered Congress, and another step in the direction of Congress-mukt Bharat for BJP.

Nagaland

The Nagaland state government polls are scheduled for February 27, with cotes to be counted on March 3. The northeastern state has 60 constituencies.

Naga Peoples Front formed an alliance with the Bhartiya Janata Party and Janata Dal-United in 2003 and has been in power since.

For the 2018 elections, Narendra Modi left its 15-year-old ally, Naga Peoples Front (NPF), and joined hands with Nationalist Democratic Peoples Party and Eastern Nagaland Public Organisation. The NDPP would contest 40 of the 60 seats in the state assembly, while the BJP would have candidates running in the remaining 20 seats.

The party will focus on job creation, equity in development, political empowerment and farmers welfare in Nagaland.

Many BJP leaders were found to be unhappy of this alliance and thought that this will negatively impact the partys image in Nagaland.

After its hopes of an alliance with NFP broken, Congress released a list of 23 nominations in Nagaland a day before the filing deadline. It is reportedly the lowest number of candidates filed by Congress in Nagaland since its defeat in 2003.The BJP-NDPP coalition will not come in the way of "smooth implementation" of the proposed Naga accord, if voted to power in Nagaland, Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said on Monday.

He, however, was non-committal when asked if it meant that the new government would recommend the dissolution of the Nagaland Assembly to pave the way for implementation of the accord, if necessary.

"Our party and the government, if elected, will not come in the way of the smooth implementation of the Naga accord as and when it is signed. Rather we will cooperate," he told PTI here.

Rijiju is the BJP's election in-charge for Nagaland.

He said, in fact, no political party will come in the way of implementation of the final peace deal with the Naga insurgent group NSCN(IM), and this has been conveyed to all concerned in Nagaland.

When asked whether his comments meant a BJP-NDPP government, if formed after the February 27 polls, will recommend dissolution of the new Assembly and recommend fresh election, if necessary, Rijiju said it was not possible for him to comment on the issue.

He said it was a subject to be discussed and decided by the MLAs.

The minister said the central government was committed to an honourable solution to the seven-decade-old insurgency in the northeastern state, which is be acceptable to all.

Under the aegis of the Core Committee of the Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations (CCNTHCO), several political parties in Nagaland had initially decided not to contest Assembly elections and demanded their deferment till the time the issue was resolved.

Civil society groups in Nagaland had also launched a campaign 'Solution before Election'.

Not a single nomination was filed till the penultimate day of filing of papers on February 6 when first batch of 22 nominations were submitted after parties softened their stand.

The central government has already rejected one of the key demands of the NSCN(IM)-- integration of the Naga inhabited areas of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Manipur--into Nagaland, a very sensitive issue for the three northeastern states. BJP is in power in the three states, which were opposed to the demand.

Manipur had seen massive protests in 2001 after the then NDA government signed a ceasefire agreement with the NSCN-IM 'without territorial limits'. After the protests, the central government was forced to decide that the ceasefire will be applicable only in Nagaland.

Last month, after the publication of a reported draft pact allegedly prepared by an RSS leader, suggesting separate authorities to execute development schemes in seven Naga inhabited districts of Manipur, two of Arunachal Pradesh, and one in Assam, violent protests were witnessed in Assam's Dima Hasao, leading to the death of two youths.

Expectations of lasting peace had soared in Nagaland, hit by insurgency for several decades, after the Centre and the NSCN-IM signed a framework agreement in 2015.

The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) has been engaged in peace talks with the Centre's interlocutors since 1997, when it first announced a ceasefire agreement.

During a visit to Nagaland in November 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind had said the state was at the threshold of making history as a final agreement on the Naga political issue would soon be arrived at and lasting peace achieved.Amit Shah

BJP president Amit Shah today asserted that the BJP would form the next government in Tripura which would be the 20th state to be ruled by the saffron party.

Shah assured the voters that the promises made in the party's election manifesto released yesterday would be implemented.

"Seeing the atmosphere and campaigns after visiting various constituencies, I am rest assured that the BJP would form the next government in Tripura and it would be the 20th BJP-ruled state," Shah told a news conference here.

"The party neither had MLAs in Manipur and Assam nor a strong organisational base, yet the huge popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP's programme brought the party in power in those two north eastern states," he said.

Likewise, Tripura also would come to the BJP fold, he said.

The Left Front has been ruling the state for nearly 25 years continuously but Tripura lags behind in distribution of drinking water to households, healthcare services, power supply, infrastructure and attracting investments, he said.

The CPI(M)-led Left Front is in power in the north eastern state in a row since 1993. The Left was also in power between 1978 and 1988.

"Ten years and 25 years is quite a long time for developing the state. But Tripura remained backward. There are many BJP-ruled states which could make much more development in lesser time," he said.

Development would come only after the saffron party formed the next government, Shah said.

He alleged that crime against women in Tripura is the highest in the country with rape and molestation being an everyday event.

CPI(M) cadres dictate terms to the police and government officials and law and order has collapsed, the senior BJP leader claimed.

But after seeing the rise of the BJP in the state, they were frustrated and resorted to violence against the BJP workers and leaders, he alleged.

"The BJP workers are ready to face the CPI(M) violence anywhere in the state," he said and appealed to police and government officials to work impartially.

Criticising opposition Congress, Shah said the party was trying to divide the anti-Left votes in the state for favouring CPI-M, but that would not work.

He said Union Finance minister Arun Jaitely yesterday published the manifesto of the party which promised that special economic zone (SEZ) would be set up in the state and smartphones would be given to the youth for free if the saffron party is elected to power.

Election to the 60-member Tripura Assembly would be held on February 18. The BJP is contesting in 51 seats, while its alliance partner Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) has fielded candidates in nine seats.Questioning Rahul Gandhi's temple visits ahead of the coming Karnataka assembly polls, Union Minister and Karnataka election in charge Prakash Javadekar said Congress was earlier "pseudo secular" but are now "pseudo Hinduism."

"They are changing brands. They were earlier pseudo secularists, now they are pseudo Hinduism. People understand which is an election gimmick and which is true devotion," the minister said.

He claimed that Gandhi did not go to temples in Delhi when he was elected Congress president, which was the biggest day in his life.

"He goes to temples in Gujarat and Karnataka because there is election. So it is a vote gimmick. But people are not fools. In our country illiterate intelligence is very powerful. Robust common sense works and people understand who is a real devotee and who is an election devotee."

He took a dig at the ruling Congress in Karnataka, saying that on the one hand its leaders are visiting temples and on the other, brought out a circular from taking and appropriating all temples, mutts, under endowment department.

The circular was later withdrawn hurriedly under public pressure, he pointed out.

Welcoming Gandhi to Karnataka on behalf of his party, the union minister said his arrival ensures BJP's victory.

"Congress president Rahul Gandhi is in Karnataka. We welcome him because wherever he goes BJP wins. This is the track record. Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Assam,Maharashtra Haryana,Jharkhand, JK and recently, Gujarat. So everywhere where he does long campaign, we get benefit, so we welcome."

Alleging deterioration in law and order in Karnataka, he said 25 pro-Hindu activists and murder of two journalists give a clear picture of 'lawlessness' in the state.Vodafone

The Delhi High Court termed as an "abuse" the competition regulator CCI's decision to investigate United Kingdom-based Vodafone Group plc, the parent company of Vodafone India, for default in providing inter-connection to Reliance Jio (RJio).

"This is an actual abuse and we have no compunction in stating so," the high court said while issuing notice to CCI and Reliance Jio seeking their replies on Vodafone Group's plea challenging the fair trade regulator's order.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru also sought the stand of Bharti Airtel, Idea Cellular and Vodafone India, all three of whom have been accused by RJio of not providing it inter-connect facility, and listed the matter for hearing on April 23.

The UK-based parent company of Vodafone India has moved the high court against the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) September 12, 2017 decision to reject its plea that it be deleted as a party from the proceedings initiated on a complaint by RJio.

The foreign entity has claimed that the high court had on July 14 last year directed the CCI to examine its plea for discharge from the proceedings and pass a "speaking order", but regulator did not do so.

The high court agreed with Vodafone Group's claim that "no speaking order" was passed by the CCI, and questioned how a holding company was responsible for inter-connection default.

"This is an actual abuse and it must stop. If the CCI is not applying its mind, despite clear directions by this court, then we will comment on it," the court said.

Vodafone has also challenged CCI's April 21 order of last year directing an investigation into the foreign entity also, along with the other telecom majors operating here, on RJio's complaint.

RJio, meanwhile, told the high court that the April 21, 2017 order of CCI has been set aside by the Bombay High Court, and the regulator, in January this year, has moved an appeal in the Supreme Court where it is pending.Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia waves to activists as she arrives for a rally in Dhaka in this file picture taken January 20, 2014. A Bangladesh court issued an arrest warrant on March 30, 2016 for former prime minister and opposition leader Zia over a deadly firebombing attack last year, a prosecutor said. REUTERS/Andrew Biraj/Files - GF10000365774

Several thousand supporters of the jailed Bangladeshi ex-premier Khaleda Zia today staged human chain protests across the country to demand the party chief's release following her five-year imprisonment in a graft case.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) supporters in the capital Dhaka and other major cities protested the February 8 court verdict which sentenced the 72-year-old Zia for embezzling 21 million takas (USD 252,000) in foreign donations meant for the Zia Orphanage Trust.

In the same case, her son Tarique Rahman and four others were sentenced to 10 years in jail.

The BNP's protest came as police allegedly detained hundreds of opposition supporters in the last one week.

Some senior party leaders, including Shamsuzzaman Dudu, were detained while attempting to join the protest today.

Legal experts say Zia's imprisonment would disqualify her from contesting the next general elections slated for December this year unless the Supreme Court comes up with a different direction during the appeal process.

BNP boycotted the general election in 2014, but Zia appears to be seeking to contest the next polls.

"She has gone to jail on court orders and we want BNP to secure her freedom through legal process so everyone could take part in the polls," ruling Awami League spokesman and health minister Mohammad Nasim said.

"It depends on the legal process and the court, let's see what happens," Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal told reporters when asked if Zia's imprisonment would be long.

Kamal added that the two other graft cases and several criminal charges for instigating deadly violence were pending against her.

"If she is arrested in other pending cases, we will have to launch a parallel process to secure her bail separately for every charge which may take time," a lawyer told PTI preferring anonymity.

The ex-premier on November 30, 2014 lost her last ditch effort to evade the graft trial as the Supreme Court turned down her second "leave to appeal" petition challenging her indictment and asked her to face trial in the lower court.

The high court earlier validated the trial in the lower court which on March 19, 2014 had indicted Zia on two graft charges brought by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

The ACC alleged that the two charities, the other being the Zia Charitable Trust, existed only on paper and a huge amount of money was misappropriated in the name of the two organisations while Zia was premier during the BNP's 2001-2006 government.The logo of Airbus Group is seen on the company's headquarters building in Toulouse, Southwestern France, April 18, 2017. REUTERS/Regis Duvignau - RTS12R69

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe hailed the signing in Dubai of a USD 16 billion purchase by Emirates Airlines of the Airbus A380 superjumbo commercial airliner.

"This is obviously excellent news for the French aerospace industry and for the European industry as a whole, as it allows Airbus to consider continuing production of the A380," the visiting premier told reporters on the sidelines of the World Government Summit.

The deal was signed by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Emirates chairman and CEO of Emirates, and Mikhail Houari, president of Airbus Middle East.

In December, Emirates agreed to buy 20 of the double- decker aircraft with an optional 16 more, just days after the European manufacturer said it would have to halt production if no new orders were received.

The economics of the 853-seat, four-engine A380 have proved daunting, with airlines having to operate every flight at full capacity in order to make a profit.

The Emirates order was in question after the November Dubai Airshow, when the UAE airline inked a deal with competitor Boeing to buy 40 Dreamliners for more than $15 billion.

Today's closing of the deal represents a lifeline for Airbus.

A major transcontinental air routes transit hub, Dubai is one of several Gulf-based airports to have experienced prodigious growth in recent years.

Dubai airport was the world's busiest for international passengers in 2017 for the fourth year running, with 88.2 million travellers.Iranian President Hassan Rouhani

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani will arrive here on Thursday for a three-day visit during which he will discuss the "latest regional and global developments" with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders, an Iranian news agency said today.

"Iranian President Hassan Rouahni will travel to India on February 15," Iranian Students' News Agency (ISNA) said.

Apart from holding extensive talks with Modi and other Indian leaders on key bilateral and regional issues, the Iranian leader is also scheduled to deliver a special address at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) on Saturday.

This will be the first visit by Rouhani, who is the seventh President of Iran, after taking charge in August 2013.

During the meetings, Rouhani and Indian leaders will discuss, "the latest regional and global developments and the finalisation and exploitation of Chabahar port as soon as possible that can be very effective for bilateral trade in the region and mutual access of Afghanistan to regional and international markets", according to the media report.

During Modi's bilateral visit to Iran in 2016, nearly a dozen pacts were signed between the two countries.

The Trilateral Transit Agreement (Chabahar Agreement) was also signed by the three transport ministers of India, Iran and Afghanistan in the presence of Modi, Rouhani and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. The contract entails capital investment of USD 85 million by India for equipping the Chabahar port in southeastern Iran.

The strategically important port will open up the transit route for India to Iran and Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan.

India and Iran have robust economic and commercial ties covering many sectors though it has traditionally been dominated by Indian import of Iranian crude oil and the country continued to engage with Iran at the time of sanctions.

According to the external affairs ministry, India-Iran bilateral trade during the fiscal year 2016-17 was USD 12.89 billion. India imported USD 10.5 billion worth of goods mainly crude oil and exported commodities worth USD 2.4 billion.The world's largest economy is willing to talk with North Korean leadership even as it continues applying maximum pressure on the rogue state's economy, according to U.S. Vice President Mike Pence.

Speaking to the Washington Post en route home from a five-day Asia trip, the president's second-in-command described the strategy as "maximum pressure and engagement."

The new plan was agreed upon during Pence's stay in South Korea last week, during which he had "substantive conversations" with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, the newspaper reported.

Both officials agreed that Seoul would first engage with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's team  the two neighbors recently held landmark talks  after which the U.S. may follow suit, the Washington Post said. Pence told the newspaper that he had conferred with President Donald Trump "every day he was in Asia."

This unified strategy marks a major change in Trump's attempts to resolve Pyongyang's nuclear aggression and differs from the administration's previous attempts at economic punishment.

Trump and Moon have long clashed on how to reign in Kim's missile program  the White House has advocated force while Seoul has emphasized dialogue, a method that Moon's critics believe amounts to appeasement.

Speaking in Tokyo on Wednesday, Pence said that Washington would soon unveil "the toughest and most aggressive round of economic sanctions on North Korea ever."

It's not the first time U.S. officials have expressed an interest in talking with Pyongyang.

In December, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson offered to begin direct talks with the isolated nation without pre-conditions. Trump himself said last month that he was willing to talk to Kim despite recent heated exchanges between the two leaders.Egypt's Criminal Court has handed a final death sentence to a man convicted of the October 2017 killing of a Coptic priest in a northeastern suburb of Cairo.

The court's verdict comes two months after it convicted 19-year-old Ahmed El-Sonbaty and issued a preliminary death sentence.

The preliminary sentence was referred to the country's Grand Mufti, whose opinion is legally required in death penalty cases, although it is not binding.

The final sentence, issued with the Mufit's approval, can still be appealed.

El-Sonbaty was convicted of killing Coptic Orthodox priest Samaan Shehata in Cairo's El-Salam city and assaulting another called Beyman Moftan.

He was found guilty of premeditated murder of the Coptic priest, who hailed from Beni Suef Governorate in Upper Egypt.



According to investigations by the prosecution, El-Sonbaty does not suffer from a mental illness and was "fully conscious" while committing his crime.

The prosecution added that El-Sonbaty said he did not know Arch Shehata personally, but he attacked him using a cleaver as soon as he saw him wearing a Coptic vestment.

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A sign is seen above a branch of Oxfam, in London, Britain February 12, 2018. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls - RC133C18EF20

Oxfam deputy chief Penny Lawrence resigned on Monday taking "full responsibility" for the behaviour of the British charity's staff in Haiti where the aid workers possibly hired prostitutes for sex parties.

"As a programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility," Lawrence said in a statement.

The UK-based charity is accused of concealing the findings of an inquiry into claims that its staff hired prostitutes while delivering aid in Haiti in 2011 after the earthquake which devastated the island.

Her resignation comes shortly after Oxfam Chief Executive Mark Goldring met with Aid Secretary Penny Mordaunt on Monday, in a bid to prevent its government funding from being cut.

"It is now clear that these allegations - involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the Country Director and members of his team in Chad - were raised before he moved to Haiti," Lawrence said.

She said she was "desperately sorry" for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfam's supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted the organisation.

"It has been such a privilege to work for such an amazing organisation that has done and needs to continue to do such good in the world," said Lawrence, who had joined the charity in 2006 as programme director before being appointed deputy chief executive in 2016.

Oxfam employs around 5,000 workers and has 23,000 additional volunteers.

Meanwhile, ministers have launched an investigation into claims that foreign aid officials brushed off allegations of child abuse committed by aid workers.

The probe comes after Priti Patel, who ran the department until November, said that the Oxfam scandal was just the "tip of the iceberg".

Patel yesterday said that officials at the Department for International Development had "dismissed" her concerns when she raised them. She was then Secretary of State in charge of the Department.

Oxfam's own investigation led to four people being sacked and three others resigning, including the country director for Haiti.A logo is seen on a Renault Duster vehicle at a dealing centre Renault store in Minsk, Belarus June 9, 2016. REUTERS/Vasily Fedosenko - D1BETLTAAIAA

Senior Renault board member, Thierry Desmarest, has resigned from the French carmaker, sources told Reuters, days ahead of a meeting at which Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn is asking directors to back his chosen successor's appointment.

Desmarest's exit comes amid renewed tensions between Renault and the French government, which has been pressing Ghosn to recruit a second-in-command who could one day succeed him at the helm of the Renault-Nissan alliance.

Former Total CEO Desmarest, whose mandate runs until 2020, told Renault early last week that he was stepping down early, people familiar with the matter said.

His exit closely follows that of Chief Performance Officer Stefan Mueller, which cleared the way for Ghosn to propose his other deputy, Thierry Bollore, as chief operating officer and heir apparent.

A spokeswoman for the French oil giant, where Desmarest remains honorary chairman, declined to comment. The company did not respond to Reuters' requests to speak to him directly.

A Renault spokesman said: "We do not comment on rumours and speculation." A French government spokesman did not return calls seeking comment.

At least two directors - other than Desmarest - have raised concerns about the recruitment process and its outcome, sources told Reuters.

"External candidates were not so much as considered," said a person with knowledge of the matter, even when profiles such as Toyota second-in-command Didier Leroy were put forward by recruitment firms.

Renault placed Bollore atop its shortlist at the start of the process and blocked attempts by the external advisers to bring Mueller, a German-born BMW veteran, into serious contention, the source said.

DIFFERENCES

Desmarest, 72, had in any case planned to withdraw from the Renault board after the next shareholder meeting in June, a person close to the former oilman told Reuters. He had served on Renault's board for a decade and chaired its strategy committee.

"It was going to happen anyway," the person said. "This is not motivated by polemics or the Ghosn situation."

But the carmaker hurriedly circulated a draft statement among board members on Friday, attributing Desmarest's sudden exit to a discovered conflict of interest, two sources said.

"He's a very discreet man and he'll go without making a noise," said one, adding that Desmarest may attend Thursday's meeting but abstain from voting on Bollore's nomination. "His goal is not to vote and not to be associated with this."

Ghosn, 63, had earlier been expected to hand over the reins to a new chief executive and move to a new role overseeing Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi's three-way carmaking alliance.

But the plan foundered on differences with the French state over the alliance's future shape and direction. Renault currently holds 43.4 percent of Nissan, which in turn controls Mitsubishi Motors via a 34 percent stake.

Renault now plans to propose Ghosn's reappointment as CEO to the June shareholder meeting.

Both sides have been seeking to avoid a repeat of a bitter 2015 clash in which France raised its Renault stake to swing a shareholder vote and secure double voting rights.

The government had also pushed unsuccessfully for a full Renault-Nissan merger on terms that would safeguard French industrial interests.Victoria 'Posh Spice' Beckham says the Spice Girls won't be going on tour after all.



Rumours of a reunion tour began last week when the five women got together for the first time in years at Geri 'Ginger Spice' Horner's home in Hertfordshire, UK.

After Beckham posted a photo of the group to social media, TMZ reported that they'd met to plan "a world tour that will kick off in late summer" 2018.

However, Beckham shot down the reports at a New York Fashion Week preview of her Autumn Winter 2018 collection.

"I'm not going on tour. The girls aren't going on tour," she told Vogue.

In addition to Beckham and Horner, the band was comprised of Emma 'Baby Spice' Bunton, Mel 'Scary Spice' Brown and Melanie 'Sporty Spice' Chisholm.

The Spice Girls shot to fame in 1996 and were last seen together in 2012 at the premiere of West End musical Viva Forever!.

Beckham said that while a reunion tour is not on the cards, it was great to see her old friends for lunch.

"I still speak to them all individually, but for us all to get together was really lovely."

And there is still some hope that something may be on the cards, with Beckham adding that the five women spent their lunch date "brainstorming".

"There's something so strong in the message of what the Spice Girls stood for," she told Vogue.

"What is that in the future? What does that look like? We were just bouncing ideas around. Brainstorming."

With any luck, all this brainstorming might just result in a new project from the group.

Newshub.There is "no gap" in the relationship between Egypt and the United States in terms of fighting terrorism in the region, US Secetrary of State Rex Tillerson said on Monday.

Tillerson made the comments at a joint press conference with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry in Cairo, following talks between the two as part of the US official's five-nation regional tour.

"The Egyptian people should be trustful that the US will continue to support Egypt in its war to eliminate terrorism," he said, pointing to the $1 billion in funding the US provides annually to enhance Egypt's military capabilities.

"Some of it we can talk about, some we can't," Tillerson said, referring to the military funding programme.

He stressed that the US stands "arm in arm" with Egypt in fighting terrorism, accentuating his commitment to boosting security and peace in the region.

The US official's visit comes days after Egypt's military launched Operation Sinai 2018, a large-scale effort to purge terrorists from North and Central Sinai, parts of the Nile Delta and desert areas west of the Nile Valley.

According to Shoukry, his talks with Tillerson on Monday morning were focused on Egypt's fight against terrorism.

"We appreciate the support from the US in this war," Shoukry said at the press conference, hailing the "strategic relationship" between the two countries which have remained consistent for the past four decades.

Shoukry added that the two men discussed the suggestion of a new two-plus-two mechanism, including the foreign and defence ministers of the two countries, saying that it would help to boost relations.

Shoukry and Tillerson also said that a "strategic discussion" would take place before the end of the year.

Monday's talks involved discussion of regional crises, including the situations in Syria and Libya, and the shaky peace-process negotiations between Palestine and Israel.

On Palestine, Tillerson said the US was still committed to a two-state solution, adding that Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel in December has not changed the overall situation with regard to reaching a solution.

"The final boundaries of Jerusalem are yet to be set between the involved parties," he said.

Shoukry, meanwhile, said that during his meeting with Tillerson he affirmed the importance of reaching a two-state solution of the Palestinian issue, pointing to Egypt's preparedness to support efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region.

"We will continue to work on this with the US and our partners to achieve the goal of establishing a Palestinian state," he said.

The two men also agreed on the importance of a political solution as a mean of establishing stability in Libya and Syria, supporting the upcoming Libyan presidential elections.

Tillerson also spoke about North Korea at the press conference, saying it was up to North Korea to decide when it is ready to engage in sincere talks with the United States.

Shoukry said he discussed Egypt's relationship with North Korea, clarifying that it was limited to diplomatic representation, and that Egypt is critical of North Korea's nuclear weapons programme and ballistic missile launches.

The Egyptian foreign minister responded to a question from an American journalist about the human rights situation in Egypt, stressing that groups that promote such news either do not have enough information or have lost contact with society.

"You can check by yourself how the Egyptian people view our efforts in boosting human rights," he said, pointing to journalistic freedoms and the variety of satellite TV channels.

In the past few months, Egypt has repeatedly slammed reports on human rights concerns in the country, stressing that such reports were often "politicized" and "irrational".

Tillerson said the issue of human rights was discussed in the Monday-morning meeting, adding that the US supports "fair and transparent elections, which will respect the right of citizens" not only in Egypt, but worldwide.

The US secretary of state is set to meet Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi later on Monday, as part of the first leg of his visit to the region. The tour, from 11 to 16 February, also takes in Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon, and Kuwait.

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Welcome to Morningstar.co.uk!

You have been redirected here from Hemscott.com as we are merging our websites to provide you with a one-stop shop for all your investment research needs.To search for a security, type the name or ticker in the search box at the top of the page and select from the dropdown results.Registered Hemscott users can log in to Morningstar using the same login details. Similarly, if you are a Hemscott Premium user, you now have a Morningstar Premium account which you can access using the same login details.The following is our latest Fund Analyst Report for Vanguard Strategic Equity (VSEQX). Morningstar Premium Members have access to full analyst reports such as this for more than 1,000 of the largest and best mutual funds. Not a Premium Member? Gain full access to our analyst reports and advanced tools immediately when you try Morningstar Premium free for 14 days.

Vanguard Strategic Equitys rock-bottom fees and reasonable process should serve investors well over the long term, although some short-term tumbles are to be expected. Increased conviction in the team and approach leads to an upgrade of its Morningstar Analyst Rating to Silver from Bronze.Refugees from Syria, Sudan, South Sudan and Ethiopia have brought together their traditional skills, motifs and stories to create unique culturally blended products.

Their skills were enhanced through training provided by the NilFurat project, one of UNHCR Egypts livelihood projects, and further supported with the help of many local volunteers, designers and professors from the German University in Cairo, said the release.

NilFurat is a creative initiative by UNHCR Egypt that brings together culturally diverse refugees with Egyptians living in the area of Hadayek El-Maadi in Cairo with the ultimate aim of promoting community cohesion, economic empowerment and the inclusion of women.

The initiative is currently expanding its access to the global marketplace with the support of Yadawee, an Egyptian social enterprise that specializes in promoting and exporting high quality handicrafts from Egypt.

Refugees have skills and talents that simply need a chance to grow and flourish. Within each piece lies a story of history and culture, and the chance for a person who has fled war and persecution to offer something of beauty and style to the world, said UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi.

The refugee display at the trade fair is the result of MADE51, a new initiative by UNHCR and a global network of social enterprises to assist talented artisans fleeing war or persecution to achieve greater self-reliance and access the global marketplace.

MADE51 also aims preserve cultural heritage and indigenous crafting techniques that might otherwise be lost through the displacement of peoples and their integration into new economies.

Refugees involved in the initiative are paid market prices, as earning a fair living is considered key to helping displaced individuals rebuild their lives.

It is only through such sales that these refugee artisans will be able to employ their skills and earn income. By including refugee-made products in their sourcing plans, retailers and brands have a vital role to play. They can be part of the solution, added Grandi.

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The US should revive negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis as the main guarantor of the peace process in the Middle East, Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi told US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson during their meeting in Cairo on Monday.

In an official statement, Egyptian presidency spokesman Bassam Rady said El-Sisi affirmed Egypt's clear and unwavering stance on reaching a fair and comprehensive solution that guarantees the right of Palestinian people and the establishment of an independent state with its capital in East Jerusalem in line with the June 1967 borders in accordance with international resolutions.

The meeting was President El-Sisi was attended by FM Sameh Shoukry and acting Egyptian General Intelligence chief Abbas Kamel.

According to Rady, El-Sisi and Tillerson also discussed the situations in Libya and Syria and efforts to reach political resolutions to the crises.

The US Secretary of State emphasized Egypt's role as an important partner to the US, adding that the US is keen on strengthening and developing this relationship.

Tillerson further stressed his country's commitment and support for Egypt's war against terrorism.

On his side, President El-Sisi described relations between the two countries as strategic and well-established.

President El-Sisi pointed at the importance of continuing to work to boost it [this relationship] in different fields, enabling the countries to combat joint challenges they face," Rady said in the statement.

The meeting between El-Sisi and Tillerson comes only a few hours after the US secretary met with Egyptian FM Shoukry.

The US secretary stressed at a joint press conference with Shoukri that there was "no gap" in the relationship between Egypt and the United States in terms of fighting terrorism in the region.

The US secretary is in Cairo for the first leg of a five-country tour in the Middle East, during which he will also visit Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey.



In January, US Vice President Mike Pence met with Egyptian President El-Sisi in Cairo.

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In Focus with Allison Walker is a 30-minute public affairs program, featuring a roundtable of newsmakers representing a range of perspectives, including local officials and expert analysts as they tackle topical issues of importance to Floridians.

In Focus airs Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., right after Political Connections.MERIDEN  Fire officials say a Monday morning fire at Banana Brazil was caused by an old stove positioned too close to a wall.

Fire Marshal Steven Trella said the fire, reported around 10:30 a.m., was ruled accidental. There were no reported injuries.

An employee who answered the phone said the business, located at 124 Hanover St., will be closed for at least a few days for repairs, but hope to reopen as soon as possible.

It wasnt really a big fire it seemed more involved than it was, Trella said. Its probably going to take them a couple days to fix it up.

Trella said when the Banana Brazil owners renovated the building, they brought in most of their own equipment, but did keep a stove from the previous owner. The stove was positioned too close to the wall, causing damage to the wood wall and wiring inside the wall.

Firefighters were on scene until about 11:20 a.m.

Banana Brazil opened in September and serves a variety of Brazilian-style grilled meats and buffet options.U.S. support for the process of stabilising Syria has been inadequate, the Kremlin spokesman Dmtiry Peskov said on Monday.

"There is a shortage of this help," he told a conference call with reporters, adding that the Kremlin would continue its diplomatic efforts in Syria.

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Another 143 Turkish soldiers were wounded in the operation dubbed "Olive Branch" which began on January 20 against the Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) militia in the western region of Afrin, a statement said.

While the United States has given armed support to the YPG against the Islamic State group in Syria, Turkey says the militia is a "terrorist" offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).

The PKK, proscribed as a terrorist organisation by Ankara and its Western allies, has waged a three-decade insurgency against the Turkish state.

Turkey has been supporting Syrian rebels with ground troops and air strikes during the operation which Ankara has threatened to extend eastwards towards other YPG-held towns.

Turkey suffered its bloodiest day on Saturday when 11 military personnel were killed, including two after a helicopter taking part in the offensive was downed.

Some 1,369 "terrorists" had been neutralised during the operation, the army said, referring to those killed but also those captured or wounded.

It was not immediately possible to verify this figure.

But according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 152 YPG fighters and 165 Turkey-backed Syrian rebels have died in the operation.

The Observatory said at least 74 civilians have been killed in the operation so far.

Turkey has repeatedly insisted it is taking all the necessary precautions to avoid harming civilians and says there have been no civilian casualties to date.

At least seven civilians have been killed in Turkish border towns after rockets were sent from Syria in attacks Ankara blames on the YPG.

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Drain the Oceans dives deep into the unknown; a truly epic, truly original series that exposes hidden evidence of the most amazing undersea mysteries, as never seen before. The first episode is the Great Barrier Reef.

Thursdays from 9:30pm AEST.Bangladesh has signed a deal to involve the United Nations in the controversial process of returning Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, a minister said Monday.

Junior foreign minister Shahriar Alam said the government was involving the UN refugee agency so that it could not be accused of sending anyone from the stateless Muslim minority back against their will.

He gave few details, but said refugees would be asked to fill out repatriation forms in the presence of UN officials.

Bangladesh reached a deal with Myanmar late last year to repatriate the nearly 700,000 Rohingya who have fled across the border since August to escape a brutal military crackdown.

That was meant to start last month, but was delayed by a lack of preparations and protests by Rohingya refugees, most of whom say they do not wish to return without guarantees of safety.

"We have repeatedly said this repatriation process is very complex," Alam told reporters.

"We want to fill up the (repatriation) forms in their (UN) presence so that no one can say they been forced by someone or sent back against their will," he told reporters at a Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh's southeastern border district of Cox's Bazar.

There was no immediate comment from the UN, which has said previously that any repatriation must be voluntary.

Alam urged patience and said Bangladesh did not want to send back the refugees only to have them return, as has happened after past rounds of repatriation.

Bangladesh "wants to make sure the situation in Myanmar is safe and secure", he said.

Refugees are still entering Bangladesh with claims of rights abuses by Buddhist mobs and the military.

Many have lost their homes to arson attacks in their native Rakhine state, where witnesses and rights groups say entire Rohingya settlements have been burned to the ground.

New arrivals have brought harrowing tales of rape, murder and torture.

The Rohingya also want guarantees of citizenship before returning to Myanmar, which views them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh even though many have been there for generations.

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By IANS

ISLAMABAD: According to the latest reports, 'PadMan' has been banned in Pakistan.

It however did not go well with the Twitterati and they took to the microblogging site to react to the news. Many women in Pakistan slammed the decision and supported the release of the film in the country.

READ HERE | Pad Man movie review: Less Pad, more Man

Ammara Ahwad, a Pakistani journalist, wrote on Twitter, "Yes, Pakistani Women menstruate too. I support #Padman and menstrual hygiene. Ban on @PadManTheFilm in Pakistan is senseless. Release it now."

Dear Sir, the film #Padman has been released internationally. Your decision-making is embarrassingly slow. Why should a film about menstrual hygein & cheap sanitary napkins denied a release or delayed? Pakistan deserves to become a part of this conversation on reproductive health https://t.co/tTzZTDvIg7  Ammara Ahmad (@ammarawrites) February 11, 2018

Another journalist, named Gharidah Farooqi, expressed her anger and said, "Against our traditions & culture" Oh well, coz women don't menstruate here... What stupid people sitting at Censor Board ! #PadMan must be allowed in Pakistan ! "

Yes, Pakistani Women menstruate too. I support #Padman and menstrual hygiene. Ban on @PadManTheFilm in Pakistan is senseless. Release it now. pic.twitter.com/KpsTL6Rc3a  Ammara Ahmad (@ammarawrites) February 10, 2018

"Against our traditions & culture" Oh well, coz women don't menstruate here... What stupid people sitting at Censor Board ! #PadMan must be allowed in Pakistan ! https://t.co/S7PUfBV9ak  Gharidah Farooqi (@GFarooqi) February 10, 2018

Mehr Tarar, the Pakistani columnist who sparred on Twitter with Congress' Shashi Tharoor's wife Sunanda Pushkar, was also not left behind.

Banning PadMan in Pakistan is another one of those illogical things that simply affect the business of cinemas in Pakistan.

Menstruation is a fact of life, and bringing it to mainstream consciousness is neither immoral nor un-Islamic.  Mehr Tarar (@MehrTarar) February 10, 2018

Mona Alam, a journalist, lashed the Pakistan censor board's move to ban PadMan.

"Insecurity, illiteracy & double standards of #Pakistani filmmakers who're okay with dirty raunchy item numbers but consider "unislamic" to film a social awareness topic of #menstruation on #WomenEmpowerment

Censor board, ??move," she wrote on the micro-blogging site.

Insecurity, illiteracy & double standards of #Pakistani filmmakers who're okay with dirty raunchy item numbers but consider "unislamic" to film a social awareness topic of #menstruation on #WomenEmpowerment

Censor board, move#Padman banned in #Pakistan https://t.co/MHfDx1zVys  Mona Alam (@MonaAlamm) February 10, 2018

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Government wrote on its official handle, "The decision to issue an NOC by the Ministry of Information Broadcasting National History and Literary Heritage is yet to be taken on the release of a foreign feature film "Padman" as the film has not yet been pre-viewed by the Central Board of Film Censors."

On Saturday, Pakistan's Federal Censor Board refused to gives its nod for the release of 'PadMan' saying it was against "traditions and culture of the country."

Also, the members of Punjab Film Censor Board refused to watch the film saying it was based on a taboo subject and outrightly rejected any clearance certificate to it.

We cant allow the screening of films on taboo subjects in our cinemas as it is not in our culture, society or even religion, a member of the Punjab Film Censor Board stated.

'PadMan' which stars Akshay Kumar, Radhika Apte and Sonam Kapoor in pivotal roles, was released in India on February 8. The film deals with menstrual hygiene.

The film is inspired by the life of Arunachalam Muruganantham, a social activist from Tamil Nadu who introduced low-cost sanitary pads to villages in India.Fayaz Wani By

Express News Service

SRINAGAR: The alert CRPF men foiled Lashkar-e-Toibas fidayeen attack on their camp in Karan Nagar area of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, on Monday and engaged militants in a gunfight near an adjoining building in which a CRPF jawan was killed and a policeman injured.

CRPF spokesman in Srinagar, Rajesh Yadav, said some AK-47 borne militants and carrying bags attempted to barge into the CRPFs 23 bn camp at Karan Nagar area of uptown Srinagar at around 4 am today.

He said the alert sentries fired towards the militants, who ran away.

The CRPF men chased the militants, who took refuge in a nearby three-storey concrete building. The militants lobbed grenades and fired from automatic weapons towards the security men.

Immediately after the shoot-out, J&K polices Special Operations Group (SOG) and CRPF commandos were rushed to the spot to take on the militants and flush them out from the building.

The security personnel also laid siege around the area to prevent militants from escaping. The locals were also evacuated from the area.

The intermittent gunfire and explosions rattled the area throughout the day.

WATCH VIDEO: Jawan killed, gunfight on near Srinagar CRPF camp

IG CRPF Ravideep Singh Sahi told New Indian Express that CRPF jawan was killed and a policeman injured in the day long gunfight.

The deceased CRPF jawan was identified as Mujahid Khan of 49 Bn.

He said two militants are holed up in the three-storey building and intermittently firing on the security forces.

The operation to flush out the militants will continue in the night also, Sahi said.

The area, where the gunfight is going on, is close to SMHS hospital, where from a top Lashkar-e-Toiba militant Naveed Jhatt alias Abu Hunzullah escaped from police captivity last week after a shoot-out in which two policemen guarding him were killed.

Lashkar-e-Toibas Kashmir chief Mehmood Shah in an emailed statement claimed that militants of the outfit were involved in the ongoing gunfight in Karan Nagar area of Srinagar.

The attack comes two days after heavily armed militants of Afzal Guru Squad of Jaish-e-Mohammad stormed the heavily fortified 36 brigade military station at Sanjwan, Jammu.

Nine people including five army men, civilian and three attackers have been killed while 11 others including two army officers injured in.

Meanwhile, unknown gunmen today shot dead a separatist activist in the Beerwah area of central Kashmir's Budgam district today.

A police official said Hurriayt activist Mohammad Yousuf Nadeem was shot dead by gunmen after intercepting him at Charangam village in Budgam district.

He was travelling in a passenger cab from Budgam to Beerwah when he was intercepted by two gunmen and shot, he said.

He said Yousuf sustained bullet injuries in head and back and was rushed to hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.

No group has claimed responsibility for the killing.By Online Desk

JAMMU: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said militants who killed five soldiers and a civilian at an Army camp in Jammu were Pakistanis and warned that Pakistan will pay a price for the terror attack.

"Pakistan will have to pay for this misadventure," Sitharaman told reporters here. The deaths of "our soldiers won't go in vain".

The minister was in Jammu to take stock of the situation at the Sunjuwan Army camp which three heavily armed militants stormed it on Saturday morning and entered the residential quarters of junior commissioned officers, spraying bullets and hurling bombs.

She alleged that the terrorists who attacked Sunjuwan camp belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed and sponsored by Azhar Masood residing in Pakistan and deriving support from there.

"6 fatal casualties, including a civilian were cost by the terrorists. 3 terrorists have been eliminated. There were reports of 4 terrorists. The fourth terrorist must have been a guide and may not have entered the Camp area.", said Sitharaman.

READ: Jawan killed, cop injured in gunfight near CRPF camp in Srinagar

The operation was called off on Monday morning after the three attackers were killed. A fourth one, she said, may have been a guide and didn't enter the military base.

Sitharaman said the three militants were all Pakistanis and were handled by their Jaish-e-Muhammad leaders across the border. "The demography of the cantonment and the adjoining area indicates the possibility of local support to the terrorists."

The Minister asserted that evidence related to Jaish's involvement in the terror attack would be shared with Pakistan. "Giving evidence to Pakistan is a continuous process. It will have to be proved over and over again that they are responsible."

She said giving evidence to Pakistan would not prevent the Indian Army from responding "appropriately and at a time we deem fit".

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met those injured in the #SunjuwanArmyCamp attack at the Military Hospital in Jammu. pic.twitter.com/34pE1ZLiE3  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

Earlier, the Minister undertook an aerial survey of the Army station and visited the Army Hospital in Jammu city where those injured in the terror attack were being treated.

She also called on Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.

Jammu: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met #JammuAndKashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti. pic.twitter.com/wR4u8N2Vk4  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

"The Supreme Court has given a 15 day stay on the FIR itself. We'll have to see how it goes. We have to stand by our proud soldiers and Army and in the call of duty if they have performed something it has to be contextualized", said the Defence Minister.

READ: LeT claims responsibility for Sunjwan Army Camp, Karan Nagar attacks

Intelligence inputs show that terrorists were controlled by their handlers from across the border. The evidence is being scrutinised by the National Investigation Agency. Pakistan is expanding the arch of terror to areas south of Pir Panjal and resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration, she added.

Counter-terrorist operation in Sunjuwan was called off on Monday at 10.30 but sanitisation operation is still on.

ALSO READ: Will take action on civilian structures near military installations, says Nirmala Sitharaman

Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) on Monday had claimed the responsibility of the recent terror attacks at Sunjwan Army Camp and Karan Nagar CRPF camp.

A CRPF personnel has lost his life in the ongoing encounter at the 23 Bn CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar, where two armed-terrorists were spotted in the wee hours of Monday.

Security personnel take positions during an encounter with the

militants who were sheltering in a building near a CRPF camp at

Karan Nagar in Srinagar on Monday. | PTI

The alert CRPF men foiled Lashkar-e-Toibas fidayeen attack on their camp in Karan Nagar area of Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, on Monday and engaged militants in a gunfight near an adjoining building in which a CRPF jawan was killed and a policeman injured.

CRPF spokesman in Srinagar, Rajesh Yadav, said some AK-47 borne militants and carrying bags attempted to barge into the CRPFs 23 bn camp at Karan Nagar area of uptown Srinagar at around 4 am today.

WATCH VIDEO | Pakistan will pay for this misadventure, says Sitharaman on Sunjuwan Attack

He said the alert sentries fired towards the militants, who ran away.

The CRPF men chased the militants, who took refuge in a nearby three-storey concrete building. The militants lobbed grenades and fired from automatic weapons towards the security men.

Earlier on Saturday, terrorists barged into the Sunjwan army camp in Jammu, killing five security personnel and one civilian. Six army personnel and six civilians are injured.

Four terrorists belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) have been gunned down.

(With input from agencies)By PTI

MUSCAT: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today held wide-ranging talks with the Sultan of Oman as the two sides signed eight agreements, including pacts on cooperation in the field of defence, health and tourism.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, led delegation-level talks with Qaboos bin Said al Said and discussed measures to strengthen cooperation in trade and investment, energy, defence, security, food security and regional issues.

"Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of "honest and hardworking" Indian nationals in the development of Oman.

After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

The two sides also signed annexutre to the MoU on military cooperation.

During his two-day visit, Modi will also meet Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

Earlier, addressing the Indian diaspora at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Oman's capital, Modi said the ties of India and Oman have always remained strong despite the ups and downs in the political environment in both the countries.

He also said that Indian diaspora has played an essential role in strengthening these ties.

India and Oman have thriving links rooted in centuries-old people-to-people exchanges, Modi said.

More than nine million Indians work and live in the Gulf region. In Oman, they constitute the largest expatriate community.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.By AFP

WASHINGTON: United States President Donald Trump has offered his condolences and prayers to all in connection with the killing of two Ohio police officers.

Trump took to Twitter to write about the call with Ohio Governor John Kasich about the horrible shooting.

Just spoke to @JohnKasich to express condolences and prayers to all for the horrible shooting of two great police officers from @WestervillePD. This is a true tragedy!, Trump tweeted.

Just spoke to @JohnKasich to express condolences and prayers to all for the horrible shooting of two great police officers from @WestervillePD. This is a true tragedy!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 11, 2018

Trump also tweeted his sympathies for the Westerville community, located just north of Columbus, on Saturday.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the two police officers, their families, and everybody at the @WestervillePD," the president wrote.

Two police officers responding to a call in Westerville, Ohio, were shot and killed on Saturday.

Officials have identified the officers as Officer Anthony Morelli and Officer Eric Joering.

Joering had served as an officer for 17 years, whereas Morelli had been with the force for 30 years.

According to the Hill, a suspect has been taken into custody.The conference, which runs until Wednesday, is part of the petroleum ministrys wider oil and gas development strategy.

EGYPS is hosting 400 exhibiting companies and 11 country pavilions from countries that including Bahrain, China, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Russia, Scotland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States.

The platform will feature success stories and the government reforms and policies undertaken to enable them, Petroleum Minister Tarek El-Molla said, according to state-run MENA news agency.

Egypts industry witnessed four successes last year, with the addition of over 1.6 billion cubic feet of gas produced from Nooros, Atoll, Zohr, and North Alexandria, Minister El-Molla said, in addition to a new law regulating the natural gas market.

The first day of the conference featured presentations on outlook and analysis of emerging global trends, enhancing strategic partnerships by global upstream leaders, and growth in downstream refining and the petrochemical sector.

Day two will showcase the potential for Egypts oil and gas industry, discussing successful regional partnerships, competitiveness in the MENA region, and innovation in the countrys industry.

Speakers include oil and gas company representatives Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi, BP Group Chief Executive Bob Dudley; Hellenic Petroleum CEO Grigoris Stergioulis, NOC Libya Board Chairman Mustafa Sanalla, and Lorenzo Simonelli, Chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes, a GE subsidiary.

The conference reflects the attention Egypt pays to the petroleum industries, Mohammed Barkindo, Secretary General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), said in his speech.

Barkindo praised Egypts leading role in OPEC, stressing the importance of cooperation between member and non-member oil producing companies.

Global oil production increased significantly to reach 100 million barrels per day in 2018, a target initially set for 2019, according to Barkindo.

The Zohr, North Alexandria and Nooros gas fields are expected to increase Egypts natural gas production by 50 percent this year and 100 percent in 2020, Egypts petroleum ministry announced last July.

Egypt expects to reach natural gas self-sufficiency by the end of 2018, the ministry said.

Short link:

Dutch Queen Maxima is currently making a two day financial working visit to Indonesia. Queen Maxima arrived at SoekarnoHatta International Airport of Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia yesterday. Today, the Queen made a working visit to Lampung state in Sumatra island, which is characterized by agriculture and met with farmers. Then, Queen Maxima attended a discussion at a round table meeting with representatives of agricultural sector in order to talk about financing of farmers.Although the Grand Egyptian Museum overlooking Giza Plateau will celebrate a soft opening in December, it is the Egyptian Museum which will remain one of Egypts archaeological icons.

To highlight some of its distinguished treasured collections, the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir overlooking Giza Plateau is to exhibit at its foyer and on a weekly basis, three of its artefacts that were located in a hidden display area, repatriated from abroad and stored in the basement.

This week the mummy of Unknown Man E and a gilded cartonnage mask with a shroud are the selected objects going on special display.

Elham Salah, head of the Museums Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, said the gilded cartonnage mask with a shroud was repatriated from the United States in 2017. The shroud looks like a net with beads used since the 21st Dynasty as a mummy cover.

Meanwhile, Unknown Man E is wrapped in sheepskin with trimmed toe nails dyed with henna and an open mouth which makes the mummy look as though he had been poisoned. The mummy possibly belongs to Prince Pentewere, a son of the 20th Dynasty King Ramses III, who had been involved in a conspiracy against his father.

The gruesome mummy of Unknown Man E, also known as the Screaming Mummy, has long puzzled scholars, renowned Egyptologist Zahi Hawass told Al-Ahram Weekly, adding that this particular mummy is surrounded in mystery. Although he was re-buried in the royal mummy cache of Deir Al-Bahari, he was not wrapped in the usual fine linen bandages like the rest of the mummies. Instead, he was wrapped in sheepskin, which was considered impure by the ancient Egyptians. His hands and feet were tied with leather thongs. He was not even mummified, but was merely left to dry in natron and then had some resin poured into his open mouth.

Such unusual mummification has perplexed Egyptologists and no one has succeeded in knowing the story behind such a mummy until the launch of the Egyptian Mummy Project several years ago under my direction to create a complete database of forensic information related to the mummy collection at the Egyptian Museum, Hawass said.

The DNA, he explains, extracted from the bones of the mummies of the Unknown Man E and Ramses III to identify the familial relationship, if any, confirmed that Unknown Man E is indeed the son of Ramses III. Hanging marks around the mummys neck match the account of the Harem Conspiracy Papyrus, which mentions that Pentawere was sentenced to be hanged. Considering the mummys disgraced status, and the way he was buried, he can be identified as the conspirator, Prince Pentawere, who plotted the murder of his father Ramses III. The Harem Conspiracy Papyrus is currently on display at the Museo Egizio in Turin.

Hawass told the Weekly of a conspiracy plotted against the life of Ramses III by his second wife, Tiye, and her son, Prince Pentawere. The conspirators included several army commanders, soldiers, servants from the palace, women from the harem of Ramses III and magicians. According to the papyrus, the conspirators were captured, and the text deals with their trial proceedings. However, the text does not indicate whether Ramses III was murdered. It only mentions that the royal barque was overturned, and referred to the king as the great god. This ambiguity caused quite a number of scholarly arguments and controversies, until the launch of the Egyptian Mummy Project.

As part of the project, on examining the mummy of Ramses III, Hawass pointed out new evidence about his life and death. He died at the age of 60 and suffered from atherosclerosis. But he did not die of old age. Further examination of the neck region revealed that someone surprised the king from behind, and stabbed him in the neck with a sharp, pointed weapon, like a dagger. The width of the severe cut in the soft is 35mm, and it extends deep to reach the lower end of the fifth to seventh vertebrae. The wound severed all the structures of the neck including the esophagus, trachea and the large blood vessels.

CT-scans also showed that the mummy retained its entire original amulets. A Wedjat eye amulet, representing the eye of Horus, was inserted in the rim of the throat wound. The Wedjat eye is a symbol of protection and healing. It represents the eye of Horus that was wounded in one of the battles between Horus and Seth and magically restored by the god Thoth. By placing this amulet inside the wound, the embalmers hoped for the healing of the kings wound in the afterlife. The scans also showed four amulets representing the four sons of Horus inserted in the chest among the bandages to protect the mummy.

This story was originally published in Al-Ahram WeeklyLights, camera, action: New movie being filmed in Newport, Jamestown

When you see the movie, there's a lot of wealth and beautiful scenery, and Newport is that. That was one of the key reasons why we came here.Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Sunny early then increasing clouds with some scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. Potential for severe thunderstorms. High 89F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies. Low 58F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.Electric cars bask in the limelight at India's flagship auto show, where an ambitious plan to phase out polluting clunkers has manufacturers racing to lure millions of new drivers to their green vehicles. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government wants all new cars on India's roads to be electric by 2030 to combat smog that routinely eclipses dangerous levels in the nation of 1.25 billion.

Some auto giants at the motor show in New Delhi have expressed reservations about the aggressive roll out, when so little of India is equipped to charge electric cars and most drivers cannot afford the hefty price tags. But few are willing to risk a golden opportunity in the world's fifth-largest car market, where owning a four-wheeler is a status symbol.

Tata Tigor EV. (Image: News18.com)

"We are a strong believer in electric, and with a leap of faith, we started investing even before the government announcement," said Mahesh Babu, CEO of Mahindra Electric, currently the only company producing electric vehicles in India. The Indian auto firm is a "pioneer in e-mobility", investing $75 million in its electric fleet since 2010 with another $90 million earmarked as production ramps up in the next three years, Babu said.

Others are racing to produce competing models at lower prices, with Maruti Suzuki -- India's biggest maker of passenger vehicles -- promising to launch an electric car in 2020. Banking on big sales, Maruti has poured $180 million into a new plant to construct lithium-ion batteries in partnership with Japan's Denso and Toshiba.

Tata Motors, part of the sprawling tea-to-steel conglomerate, in September won a contract to supply 10,000 electric cars for the government. The cars, priced at nearly $15,500, are the first attempt by the government to replace its half-a-million fleet of diesel and petrol guzzlers with electric vehicles.

Tata Motors is also experimenting with electric buses, and is looking to revamp its popular small Nano model as a battery-powered vehicle. Car ownership is steadily rising in Asia's third-largest economy, where four million new cars were sold in 2016. PriceWaterhouseCoopers expects annual sales to grow to nearly seven million by 2022.

But the lion's share still run on petrol and diesel, worsening already atrocious air quality in a country that ranks among the world's most polluted. A government report in May said the mobility of passengers through shared and electric vehicles can cut India's energy demand by 64 percent and carbon emissions by 37 percent in 2030.

India is not alone in wanting all-electric cars -- Britain and France hope to achieve this by 2040 -- but New Delhi wants to go faster than others. But the transition has been slow, and some global auto giants are hesitant to take the plunge in India.

Also Read: TVS Showcases 200 FI Apache Ethanol!

Mercedes has described the 2030 deadline as rushed, while Elon Musk postponed the India launch of his Tesla Model 3. The California-based company is slated to open a factory in China, India's regional rival where the electric car market is booming.

At the auto show in New Delhi, car makers pointed out that India lacked the charging points needed to refuel depleted batteries -- a major roadblock to taking electric cars nationwide.

"Who will develop this, who will fund this? All this is unclear at the moment. It is absolutely crystal ball gazing," said Manohar Bhat from South Korean giant Kia Motors, which is expected to soon unveil an electric vehicle exclusively for the Indian market.

UM Renegade Thor showcased at Auto Expo 2018. (Image: Manav Sinha/News18.com)

Other vendors at the car fair said securing enough lithium to build batteries for millions of electric vehicles would be challenging and costly. Mahesh Bendre, an auto industry analyst with Karvi Stock Broking, said electric cars would only succeed in India if the price was right.

"The government can push it to some extent but in the end it will boil down to making the right product available to the consumers at the right cost," he told AFP.

Fully electric cars are expected to make up 12 percent of the global market in 2025, analysts at Bank of America Merrill Lynch forecast last year. But that share is expected to reach one third by 2030 and 90 percent midway through the century.

Bhat, of Kia, said different markets would go electric when the time was right.

"I wouldn't say we have missed the bus," he said.

Also Watch:Ford unveiled the Raptor version of its Ranger pickup truck in Thailand, taking the Ranger to an entirely new level of desirability that might just make the rest of the world fall in love with pickups nearly as much as North Americans love them. But that remains to be seen as for the moment, Ford is staying very tight-lipped about the possibility of offering this vehicle for sale anywhere outside of Asia.

This high-performance version of the Ford Ranger produces 210 bhp and 500 Nm of torque from its twin-turbo diesel engine, and is described by Ford Performance as being something akin to "a motocross bike, snowmobile and an ATV rolled up into a pickup truck."

New Ford Ranger Raptor unveiled in Thailand. (Image: Ford)

It's being built in Thailand so it made sense to launch it there, but as the Ranger has just made a big deal of going back on sale in America with an appearance at the recent Detroit Auto Show, it's hard to understand why this version isn't confirmed as being offered for sale there so far.

Of course, there's a lot more to the Ranger Raptor than a different engine to the regular models, and the quickest of glances confirms that. The first thing that stands out is a muscular and aggressive new grille, which complements the extra ground clearance and LED fog lamps in the front bumper. And even though those bumpers have to be flared to accommodate the larger wheels, which are mounted on a long-travel suspension, they're as much about off-road capability and performance as they are about good looks.

Also Read: Elton John Owned Rare Aston Martin Could Fetch Rs 2 Crore!

But the really significant differences to the rest of the range are under the skin of the Raptor. The chassis, brakes and suspension have all been upgraded to cope with the roughest of terrains. Ford specifically says the truck isn't just meant to make light work of the off-road environment, but to "travel at high speeds off road." There's a suspended solid rear axle thanks to coil overs and a Watts link setup, which provides vertical movement with a minimum of lateral shifting. The geometry has also been changed to fit the new suspension, and there are front and rear dampers from Fox Racing Shox with 46.6mm pistons at both the front and the rear.

A Ford insider has told Auto Express the UK will be lobbying hard to get the Raptor, but despite it being built in both right and left-hand drive form, there are no official plans to offer it in Europe at the moment.

Also Watch:New Delhi: The country's largest lender SBI wrote off bad loans worth Rs 20,339 crore in 2016-17, the highest among all the public sector banks, which had a collective write off of Rs 81,683 crore for the fiscal.

The data pertains to the period when the associate banks of State Bank of India (SBI) were not merged with it.

Public sector banks' (PSBs) write-off stood at Rs 27,231 crore in 2012-13, government data showed.

The figure has jumped nearly three-fold in five years.

In 2013-14, the state-owned banks wrote off bad loans worth Rs 34,409 crore; Rs 49,018 crore in 2014-15; Rs 57,585 crore in 2015-16 and hitting Rs 81,683 in the fiscal ended March 2017.

Besides SBI, Punjab National Bank had a write-off of Rs 9,205 crore in 2016-17, followed by Bank of India (Rs 7,346 crore), Canara Bank (Rs 5,545 crore) and Bank of Baroda (Rs 4,348 crore).

In the current financial year, PSBs have written off loans worth Rs 53,625 crore in the six months to September.

As per data from the Reserve Bank, nine public sector banks, out of the total 21, had gross non-performing asset ratio of above 15 percent (the percentage of bad loans in terms of total loans outstanding) as of September 30, 2017.

Fourteen PSBs have gross non-performing asset ratio of over 12 percent.

PSBs are faced with mounting non-performing assets (NPAs) or bad loans, putting the financial sector under stress. The government has unveiled Rs 2.11 lakh crore capital infusion plan for the PSBs, including via bonds, in the next two years.Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the organisation has the ability to prepare an "army" to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises.

The RSS chief said this while addressing the workers at Zila school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur.

"Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so," Bhagwat said.

Soon, expressing their displeasure over the statement, people came out in full force on the microblogging site Twitter. Demanding an apology from RSS, Twitterati tweeted with #ApologiseRSS hashtag.

RSS army on the way to Dhoklam. Mohan Bhagwat has dispatched another unit to Pakistan. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/TEI0tnQoIu Zia Nomani (@NomaniZia) February 12, 2018

The RSS has been known for hate mongering,creating chaos & spreading rumours. The extremist organisation has only disrupted normal life by deploying anti-social elements. Shri Mohan Bhagwat seems to have lost the plot & his comments are an insult to the Indian Army.#ApologiseRSS NSUI (@nsui) February 12, 2018

"Army needs months to prepare for battle but RSS needs only a few days: Mohan Bhagwat"Running away from struggle takes much lesser time than to prepare for a battle and don't ask about apology letters or mercy petitions, those are pre-printed ready, RSS just signs & submits. Arun Shourie  (@FeignShourie) February 11, 2018

Is #MohanBhagwat suggesting that the Indian army is failing to defend India and RSS needs to step in? Social media hatriots, you may soon be torn away from Twitter and transported to the border Sagarika Ghose (@sagarikaghose) February 12, 2018

Fantastic. Now, why didnt we think of this before? Lets just disband the Indian Army. And the Indian Navy. And the Indian Air Force. @nsitharaman what an idea, Maam. Saves us billions of dollars and puts national security in much better hands https://t.co/1Sdqo2silM Major Gaurav Arya (@majorgauravarya) February 12, 2018

Can't expect any better from the RSS. They are the same guys who colluded with the British during freedom struggle and insulted our flag for 52 years. #ApologiseRSS Hasiba (@HasibaAmin) February 12, 2018

RSS is a blot on India, they have no respect for Indian Flag & now they have disrespected the Indian Army, it is in their DNA to disrespect the Nation. #ApologiseRSS Samrat Dhingra (@SamraatD) February 12, 2018

BJP-RSS have been consistently underming our institutions. Indian Army, which works hard to protect the country & ensure safety of the people, is their latest target. #ApologiseRSS https://t.co/XoO66W4KV3 Nagaland Congress (@INCNagaland) February 12, 2018

Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweeted, "It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army."

Congress President Rahul Gandhi tweets on RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's speech that said the organisation has the ability to prepare an "army" to fight for the country within three days pic.twitter.com/t2dEBPfvUH News18 (@CNNnews18) February 12, 2018

BJP leaders were quick to jump to the right-wing organisational head's defence. Civil Aviation MoS Jayant Sinha said it was a case of misconstrued statement. "Opposition is making unnecessary noise. We are fully with our Army," he said.

MoS Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju also tweeted, "Indian Army is our pride. In emergency situation (not Congress emergency) every Indian must volunteer to stand with Defence Forces. Bhagwat ji only said it takes 6-7 months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has the ability to contribute."

Indian Army is our pride. In emergency situation(not congress emergency) every Indian must volunteer to stand with Defence Forces. Bhagwat ji only said it takes 6-7 months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has the ability to contribute. Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) February 12, 2018

Following the outrage, the organisation has released a press statement terming misrepresentation of comments.

Mohan Bhagwats speech in Muzzafpur (Bihar) is being represented. Bhagwat ji had said that if situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian Army would take six months to prepare the society whereas Sangh Swayamsevaks can be trained in three days, as Swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly. This was no way a comparison between the Indian Army and the Sangh Swayamsevaks but it was a comparison between general society and Swayamsevaks. Both are to be trained by the Indian Army only.

Dr Manmohan Vaidya clarifies on @RSSorg Chief Mohan Bhagwats remarks on the Army and preparedness. @the_hindu pic.twitter.com/V7nIrpCooE Nistula Hebbar (@nistula) February 12, 2018

Bhagwat's comment came while he was addressing workers at Zila school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur.

(With PTI inputs)New Delhi: At a time when high courts across the country grapple with huge shortage of judges, appointment of two Additional Judges in the Rajasthan High Court for a short-term has been justified by the central government in the Supreme Court.

According to the government's logic, Additional Judges, who are usually appointed for a period not less than two years, can hold office even for a day.

In its affidavit, the Department of Justice has argued that since the appointment of an Additional Judge is for a maximum of two years in one go, the appointment can be done for any period less than this.

The period prescribed by Clause (1) of Article 224 for appointment of Additional Judge is put at a maximum of two years but that does not mean that in every case the appointment must be for two years. The appointment may be for a period less than two years, stated the affidavit.

The government's affidavit has been submitted to explain appointment of Justice Virendra Kumar Mathur and Justice Ram Chandra Singh Jhala as Additional Judges in the Rajasthan High Court for less than two years.

While Justice Mathur has been been appointed for short period of 1 year 3 months, Justice Jhala will hold office for 1 year 1 month 17 days.

A PIL filed by advocate Sunil Samdaria has questioned the duo's appointment, contending why these two had to be picked up when they could not even complete one full term as Additional Judges.

Samdaria has also pointed out that the HC was overburdened with cases pending for over 10 years and hence, even according to a Constitution Bench ruling of the apex court, such a short-term appointment was improper and had to be quashed.

The petition pointed out that when the government notified the appointment of the two judges last year, they were not even in service and had retired as judicial officers.

Raising questions on the expediency to appoint these two as Additional Judges even after their retirement from subordinate courts, Samdaria said they were neither eligible nor qualified to be appointed because they had seized to hold 'judicial office' when the notification came.

However, the Department of Justice has sought to defend the notification on the argument that the persons have to hold the 'judicial office' when the vacancy arose and in this case, the two vacancies has arisen in 2014 when the duo was in service.

Besides, the affidavit lamented that issue had come up only because the HC delayed in making recommendation for the Additional Judges. Despite the vacancies arising in October 2014, the government said, the HC sent proposal to the Chief Justice of India in July 2016.

The government notified the appointments in May 2017 after the SC Collegium cleared their names.

A bench led by Justice AK Sikri had issued a notice to the government in October, following which the affidavit has been filed.

The case will come up for hearing on Monday and it will interesting to see if the apex court, on the judicial side, will eventually examine the decision taken by its Collegium in recommending the appointment of the two judges.

If the apex court does not intervene, Justice Jhala is to retire in July 2 this year while Justice Mathur will demit office on September 1 after they turn 62.New Delhi: Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday courted controversy when he said the organisation could prepare to fight for the nation in three days, while the Army would need six-seven months.

BJP leaders were quick to jump to the right-wing organisational head's defence. Civil Aviation MoS Jayant Sinha said it was a case of misconstrued statement. "Opposition is making unnecessary noise. We are fully with our Army," he said.

MoS Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju also tweeted, "Indian Army is our pride. In emergency situation (not Congress emergency) every Indian must volunteer to stand with Defence Forces. Bhagwat ji only said it takes 6-7 months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has the ability to contribute."

Indian Army is our pride. In emergency situation(not congress emergency) every Indian must volunteer to stand with Defence Forces. Bhagwat ji only said it takes 6-7 months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has the ability to contribute. Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) February 12, 2018

Meanwhile, the organisation released a press statement terming misrepresentation of comments. Mohan Bhagwats speech in Muzzafpur (Bihar) is being represented. Bhagwat ji had said that if situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian Army would take six months to prepare the society whereas Sangh Swayamsevaks can be trained in three days, as Swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly. This was no way a comparison between the Indian Army and the Sangh Swayamsevaks but it was a comparison between general society and Swayamsevaks. Both are to be trained by the Indian Army only.

The comment has been received widespread criticism with Congress president Rahul Gandhi tweeting, "The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army."

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation.It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it.Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote on Facebook, "RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's comments on Indian Army are in poor taste, against Constitutional propriety; confirms our worst fears about the Sangh that it has no respect for India's institutions. His statement exposes RSS's hidden agenda to float parallel militias to wreak havoc, crush national unity. RSS wants to turn India into Mussolini's Italy and Hitler's Germany. Parallel Army he is talking about is what we have always warned against: Hindu Terror. Running down the army amounts to treason. RSS chief must apologise to the people of india for this treacherous remark. PM Shri. Narendra Modi should clarify his Govts position over Bhagwat belittling Indian Army."

Bhagwat's comment came while he was addressing workers at Zila school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur.

"Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so," Bhagwat said.

Sangh is neither a military nor a para-military organisation, rather it is like a "parivarik sangathan (family organisation)" where discipline is practised like the Army, he said, adding that workers are always happily ready to make supreme sacrifice for their country.New Delhi: The Supreme Court, on Monday, said it will soon pronounce its verdict on whether a retired judicial officer can be appointed as a judge in a high court.

A bench of Justices AK Sikri and Ashok Bhushan reserved its judgment on a PIL, which has questioned the appointment of two Additional Judges in the Rajasthan High Court for a short-term after they had retired from service.

"We will decide whether a retired judicial officer can be appointed as a judge in the high court or not. We will decide this point of law," said the bench, wrapping up the hearing of the petition filed by advocate Sunil Samdaria.

The Central government, through Additional Solicitor General Maninder Singh, maintained that even a retired judicial officer can be considered by the Collegium for appointment as a judge and there is no bar. He said the only requirement is that the person concerned should be a judicial officer and within the age limit of 58 and 1/2 on the date, the vacancy arises.

But Samdaria cited a Constitution Bench judgment as well as the pertinent constitutional provision regarding the appointment of an HC judge to contend that the person under consideration must be a serving officer.

Samdaria also pointed out that if such a logic was not followed, a judge can be appointed in a high court even for a day after his retirement from subordinate judiciary.

He also relied upon a Constitution Bench ruling to emphasise that it was incumbent upon a high court to make recommendations for the vacancy six months in advance whereas in the present case, the Rajasthan HC sent the proposal on July 2016 for vacancies occurring in October 2014.

The Court said it will consider all his submissions and deliver a ruling soon.

The appointments of the two judges have been justified by the Central government in the Court.

According to the government's logic Additional Judges, who are usually appointed for a period not less than two years, can hold office even for a day.

In its affidavit, the Department of Justice has argued that since the appointment of an Additional Judge is for a maximum of two years in one go, the appointment can be done for any period less than this.

The government's affidavit has been submitted to explain the appointment of Justice Virendra Kumar Mathur and Justice Ram Chandra Singh Jhala as Additional Judges in the Rajasthan High Court for less than two years.

While Justice Mathur has been appointed for a short period of 1 year 3 months, Justice Jhala will hold office for 1 year 1 month 17 days before they retire.

Samdarias PIL questioned the duo's appointment, contending why these two had to be picked up when they could not even complete one full term as Additional Judges.

Samdaria has also pointed out that the HC was overburdened with case pending for over 10 years and hence, even according to a Constitution Bench ruling of the apex court, such a short-term appointment was improper and had to be quashed.

The petition pointed out that when the government notified the appointment of the two judges last year, they were not even in service and had retired as judicial officers.

Raising questions on the expediency to appoint these two as Additional Judges even after their retirement from subordinate courts, Samdaria said they were neither eligible nor qualified to be appointed because they had seized to hold 'judicial office' when the notification came.

If the apex court does not intervene, Justice Jhala is to retire on July 2, this year while Justice Mathur will demit office on September 1 after they turn 62.New Delhi: The Government of India has now decided to extend the cover of family pension for divorce daughters even when such divorces are not finalised and would take effect immediately from date of filing of such a suit.

Minister of State for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, Prime Minister Office, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh, has told News18 that this "gender and religion neutral reform has been introduced after receiving suggestions from several quarters."

"Earlier a divorced daughter could claim family pension only when her divorce had formalised during the parents life. But now even if the divorce has not been formalised and the parent expires, then the daughter will be able to claim a share along with others like mother, brothers (if any)," said Singh.

This development is only restricted to central government employees, as this initiative has been introduced by the Department of Personnel Training.

This development comes close on the heels of the government coming under scathing criticism from the opposition on it's proposed bill criminalising triple talaq as the government was questioned on how would a women maintain herself while the husband is in jail for three years.

"I think this was aptly answered by the Prime Minister. But having said that, our decision will impact women of all religion as it's a gender and religion neutral reform. Regarding jail, if a Hindu man can go to jail for bigamy then there is no escape for a Muslim man too, " member of the PMO told News18.

In 2013, widowed and divorced daughters of a deceased central government employee were made eligible to get family pension.

"The family pension is payable to the disabled children for life and then to the unmarried, widowed or divorced daughters above the age of 25 years," said the rule in 2013.

Singh also told News18 that the government has now decided to extend the maternity leave coverage of 26 weeks even to central government employees opting for surrogacy along with the current leave granted to the child bearing mother.

The government has also decided to hike the post retirement amount payable to disabled central government employees to 6750 from the current 4000 per month.New Delhi: The Indian Army, one of the largest contributors to United Nations Peacekeeping Missions, is making yet another contribution to the UNs efforts to maintain stability and negotiate a peace settlement in turbulent regions of the world. On Monday, a unit of the Seventh Battalion of the Garhwal Rifles was dispatched from New Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport for the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the civil war-torn African nation of South Sudan.

To support the United Nations efforts in bringing peace and normalcy in the war-torn country of South Sudan, Indian Army is contributing approximately 2300 personnel. Seven Garhwal Rifles Infantry battalion group of the Indian Army is currently being inducted to South Sudan from IGI Airport, New Delhi. It is a matter of great pride for the unit and the Garhwal Rifles Regiment, as troops hailing from the Garhwal region have been nominated for the first time to deploy in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), an Army spokesperson said.

The statement added,  The unit will be in operational control of the sensitive Jonglei state with a detachment at Juba, its Headquarter in Bor County and an air maintained company group at Pibor County where armed conflicts and ethnic violence is on the rise. The Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan are deployed under Chapter VII which entails Peace Enforcement.

In November 2017, the UN Commander in South Sudan had commended the efforts of the Maratha Light Infantry for their bravery and professionalism. The Indian Army unit assumed operational responsibility in South Sudan, the newest country in the world, on November 16, 2016. A year after Maratha Light Infantry boots hit the ground, Lieutenant General Frank Mushyo Kamanzi of Rawanda, the UN Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) wrote a glowing commendation of the unit. During the tour of duty, the battalion has assiduously lived up to its motto of Duty, Honour and Courage while serving the UNMISS mandate. The professional of the men of the unit facilitated smooth and proficient resolution of various crisis situations in Pibor and Bor. The Battalion ensured incident-free protection of civilians in IDP camps and created favourable situations for delivery of Human Assistance, Kamanzi wrote in his letter.

He further mentioned several successful operations that Indian Army troops had undertaken on the ground in South Sudan. In July this year, Maratha Infantrymen had extricated 13 civilian workers of Medcins Sans Frontiers (MSF) to a UNMISS compound. The MSF workers were trapped amidst heavy firing in Pibor on July 12 and 13. Earlier, in March, clashes had broken out in Pibor town and the Indian troops were charged with protecting 500 civilians, mostly women and children. It was due to the efforts of the Maratha Light Infantry, Kamanzi said, that a stable environment was created and 80 child soldiers engaged in the civil war laid down their arms. The battalion also protected civilian camps in Bor without any incident.

The Battalion has also fruitfully engaged with the leadership in its Area of Responsibilities and reached out to the people through Medical/Veterinary Camps in inaccessible areas and operating a veterinary clinic in Bor where total of 22,000 cases were treated. The battalion successfully enhanced the image of United Nations Peacekeepers. The Battalion demonstrated a high level of professionalism and is an extremely effective fighting force, he said.

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, making it the newest nation in the world. However, a civil war broke out in the infant nation in 2013. The UN Mission in South Sudan is the newest UN Peacekeeping Mission. India, with 2,237 troops, is the highest contributor in terms of troops to the UNMISS. In addition to India, 53 nations from around the world have contributed troops to the peacekeeping mission.Chandigarh: After Haryana CMs assurance to withdraw all FIRs against Jats in connection with 20I6 quota stir, the community has decided to call off their rally in Jind which was scheduled to derail BJP chief Amit Shahs bike rally.

The All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti (AIJASS) had threatened to disrupt Shahs Jind rally on February 15, alleging non-fulfilment of their demands, following which Haryana had sought 150 companies of central forces as a preventive measure.

While nearly one lakh motorists were supposed to participate in BJP presidents rally, the Jat body had organised a parallel rally with 50,000 tractor-trolleys to disrupt Shahs event.

The decision to call off AIJASS rally was announced late on Sunday night after Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Union minister Birender Singh, senior BJP leader Anil Jain, held a five-hour-long meeting with a jat delegation led by AIJASS president Yashpal Malik at Haryana Bhawan in New Delhi.

The issue of reservation and was also discussed in the meeting, following which Haryana CM issued a press statement saying that it will provide the data on status of various classes to a State Backward Classes Commission by March 31 to expedite decision on reservation issue.

Malik said that the Jat rally will now be observed on February 18 as Balidan Divas.

The Haryana government had recently given its nod to withdraw 70 FIRs registered in connection with the Jat quota violence.

During the past nearly two years, the government has approved withdrawal of 223 cases, in which a total of 2,027 people are accused, Home Secretary S S Prasad said earlier.

These cases were filed in February 2016 after the Jat quota stir in the state turned violent. Around 30 people were killed and more than 300 people injured when the agitation resulted in large-scale violence.New Delhi: Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) are working together to carry out a high profile attack in Kashmir using a vehicle laden with explosives.

Security agencies in the valley have come across this information through mobile phone intercepts between cadre of the two terror groups.

On January 15, News18 had reported that agencies in Kashmir were getting an 'unprecedented' number of alerts about fidayeen attacks. Three big fidayeen attacks have been carried out since, two in Kashmir and one in Jammu, in which six security force personnel, one civilian and ten militants have been killed.

According to the latest inputs, the two terror groups, which are acting in close coordination with each other and the Hizbul Mujahideen are now planning to carry out a 'spectacular' car or truck bomb attack in the valley. Other attacks, meanwhile, are likely to continue.

Jaish-e-Mohammed has already carried out such an attack in 2001 when its squad of three fidayeens stormed the Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly complex in Srinagar in a Tata Sumo car laden with explosives. Over 40 people and three terrorists were killed in the attack.

"We have been getting inputs that the terror groups are working with each other to carry out a big, spectacular attack. The idea is to ram an explosives-laden vehicle into a high profile location, like the residence of a senior government functionary or senior army official, an army base, a hotel or on the legislative assembly in Jammu where the session is in progress right now," said a senior officer.

On the Monday's fidayeen attacks, the officer said that they had received prior inputs about a possible Lashkar-e-Taiba attack in Srinagar a couple of days ago.

"We received an input about Lashkar cadres moving in downtown Srinagar and we had information that they had come here on a suicide mission. Whether the current fidayeen squad, which is being fought in Karan Nagar, are the same militants or belong to the same group, we don't know yet," said the officer.

All the three big terror groups in Kashmir have received a shot in the arm after the escape of Naveed Jutt, the Pakistani LeT commander, who broke out from police custody by killing two policemen on February 8.

Jutt, who is a resident of Pakistan's Multan area, has been spotted moving around the valley, highly placed sources say. According to information available with security forces, he has been spotted in Shopian and Kulgam. The forces suspect him to be working on the suicide car bomb plan.

He is also believed to be busy reviving the terror group in the valley and actively recruiting more cadre for his terror group. He was the deputy chief of LeT at the time of his arrest in 2014.

The valley's state intelligence bureau has also been receiving multiple inputs about the terror groups amassing a war-like store to carry out major attacks' in the valley.

Sources say, they were first alerted about this plan after finding out that a new JeM group of four to six foreign terrorists have infiltrated the valley in the last week of December. Very specific inputs indicate that fidayeens have come to Kashmir all the way from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistans North-West Frontier Province (NWFP).

Both JeM and LeT are understood to be working closely to carry out deadly strikes on military and paramilitary installations in North Kashmirs Handwara and Kupwara districts.

While JeM is focussing on attacking military and paramilitary camps, LeT cadres plan to target residences of senior security personnel. According to an input received last month, LeT terrorists were seen moving in Handwara in a Maruti car.

State police, CRPF and state intelligence bureau have since been put on high alert.

We have never received as many alerts about a suicide strike as we have been getting for the past 10 days. We understand that the groups are quite desperate to strike back after we incurred heavy losses on them throughout last year, but the fact that theyre planning on carrying out multiple suicide strikes is a much bigger security challenge, said a highly placed source in state police.

Senior security officers in the state say that JeM has been working hard to create a presence in the valley for the last three months to give some breathing space to Hizbul Mujahideen and LeT, both of which have suffered huge losses last year.

Security alerts often refer to a LeT operative  Waleed  as the one who has repeatedly been calling his recruits in the valley. Though it is not clear at this point, this Waleed could be a reference to Khalid Waleed, son-in-law of LeT founder and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed. Waleed is known to have been working closely with Saeed and is seen as Saeeds successor.

If this indeed is the case, it would indicate the level of seriousness and desperation within terror groups to carry out huge strikes in the valley.Kolkata: Days after a Facebook page compiled a list of interfaith couples and asked people to attack them, Kolkata Police have initiated a probe into the Love Jihad posts put up by Hindutva Varta against these couples who are mostly from West Bengal.

The page, Hindutva Varta (discussion on Hindutva) published names and Facebook profiles of 102 couples, asking Hindu lions to hunt down Muslim men on the list. However, the page made no mention of how it got the names of the interfaith couples. The list includes many well educated professionals starting from IT experts, teachers to Assistant Professor of a College in Midnapore.

Speaking to News18, Rehaan (name changed) said, I received death threats on social media from some groups. I was scared and met a senior officer of the cyber cell at Lal Bazaar police headquarters and lodged a complaint on February 7. They assured me that adequate action will be taken.

It seems that the social media post mentioning us was done by some well organized group. They even warned my girlfriend not to meet me orelse she will face dire consequences. I suspect this involves multiple people and it is extremely scary. Both of us are traumatized and we hope that some action is taken.

Joint Commissioner of Police, Praveen Kumar Tripathi told News18, Yes, we have received a complaint and are investigating the matter. We are verifying the Facebook accounts from which these objectionable posts were put up. We promise to take adequate action based on the authenticity of such posts.

The list was viral across social media platforms in January and the page has since been taken down by Facebook.

The matter came to light after one of the couples named in the list lodged a complaint with the Kolkata Police cyber cell saying they have received death threats on social media.

Soon after the Hindutva Varta list came out, several unknown individuals started dropping messages to warn Rehaans girlfriend on social media, prompting her to block some them. She later had to go off social media. Someone meticulously searched and made a list of so many couples. There has to be a team behind this, the complainant said.

His complaint further states, Sir this is to inform you that, by virtue of a Facebook post and /or Internet publication made in a social networking site, i.e., Facebook, we being Mr Rehaan (name changed) and Ms Sumana (name changed) from South and Central Kolkata respectively have been targeted by a group of people. In the said post, the authors have promoted and /or attempted to promote disharmony, feelings of enmity, hatred and ill-will on the basis of religion in writing In the same post we were further subjected to death threats.

In another case, Mrinalini, a marketing executive in a private company in Kolkata, said, I was shocked to see my name being associated with my former boyfriend. We were in a relationship but its over now. We are not in touch for over a year. Such social media posts really hurt and I am scared and traumatized.

Apart from Hindutva Varta, a similar post uploaded by Biplab Chattopadhyay (who claims to be a VHP member) on a group called Milan Mela also warned Hindu girls becoming victims of love jihad. Hindu girls are becoming victim of Love Jihad and converting to Islam. Its time to wake up. Wake up all Hindus otherwise you will lose your homeland India.In case you missed it

Asma Jahangir, Pakistan's renowned human rights lawyer, social activist and an outspoken critic of the country's powerful military establishment, died of cardiac arrest. Known for her outspoken nature and unrelenting pursuit for human rights, Asma, 66, was the first woman to serve as the President of Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan.

A Russian passenger plane carrying 71 people crashed outside Moscow after taking off from the capital's Domodedovo airport, killing everyone on board.

Five soldiers and a civilian have been killed in the terror strike at family quarters of army's Sunjawan camp in Jammu and the death toll is expected to climb further as the forces comb through the residential buildings after the encounter. With the deaths, a total of 23 Indians have lost their lives in cross-border firings and terror incidents in 2018. Not for the last one decade have so many lives been lost in the state within the first two months.

The victims wanted to forgive and move on, but the scars of the Muzaffarnagar riots were still fresh. It was the third Panchayat in Bara Basti on February 4, 2018, where they made serious headway. At the Mahapanchayat, Sohanvir, Jat from Kakra, a took the stage and asked all Jats to chant Allah-O-Akbar! (Allah is great). He then turned to Muslims and asked them to chant Har Har Mahadev! (Hail Lord Shiva). To Vipin Balyans surprise, everyone complied. 1,611 days after the Muzaffarnagar riots, Jat and Muslim leaders are erasing the past and giving peace a chance.

Actor Kamal Haasan, who has often been questioned about a possible political alliance with superstar Rajinikanth, has said a tie-up seems unlikely as of now and hoped that Rajinikanths colour is not saffron. Our approach is different... His (Rajinikanths) very first announcements came in a particular hue. I hope it is not saffron, said Haasan in Harvard University.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned against the misuse of cyberspace to ensure they do not become a source of radicalisation, asserting that technology should be harnessed as a tool for development, not destruction. The comments by Modi at the World Government Summit in his plenary address comes at a time when the world community is engaged in efforts to address the misuse and abuse of cyberspace by terrorists and hackers.

Stepping up his attack on the BJP over the issue of corruption, Rahul Gandhi said while the Congress's Siddaramaiah government had a scam-free rule, the BJP had broken "world records" in graft in Karnataka.

India is likely to raise with the Trump administration the use of US-made anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) by Pakistan Army to target Indian troops along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, defence ministry sources have indicated.

India's financial capital Mumbai, with a total wealth of USD 950 billion, has been named among the top 15 wealthiest cities globally, while New York topped the list.

Italy, Argentina, Sweden and Indonesia will vote and choose their representative to the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly this February 27. Well, if you wonder how these countries have voting rights in this hill state in India's North East, you are in for a surprise. These are the names of voters in Meghalaya.

After reminding Prime Minister Narendra Modi of a certain character from Ramayana, Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury has now transformed into a character from another epic  Mahabharata. In posters put by a Congress leader from Allahabad, Chowdhury has been depicted as Draupadi while Prime Minister Modi, BJP chief Amit Shah and union minister Kiren Rijiju have been portrayed as Kauravas for mocking her laughter.

Kerala has topped the Health Index report prepared by Niti Aayog. The report also states that Uttar Pradesh has fared the worst between the years 2014-15 and 2015-16 while Jharkhand has made some substantial progress in improving its healthcare.

PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Indra Nooyi has been appointed to the ICC Board as the organizations first independent female director.

Agree or disagree?

The Budget session in Parliament had many firsts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced persistent and determined heckling on the floor of the House for the first time. The opposition, which had held its fire to survive and fight another day, came out all guns blazing. And perhaps NDA allies, who have been biding their time, reminded the BJP that it was time they are heard, counted. Some BJP allies, like Shiv Sena, have already opted to go solo. Others, like TDP, are weighing their options. Even smaller parties like Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and Upendra Kushwahas Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) are increasingly growing restless. New alliances, breakups on horizon as parties warm up for Lok Sabha Elections 2019.

Sometime in July last year, social media circles in Bengaluru was full of heated debates and discussions on imposition of Hindi by the Centre. The immediate trigger was Hindi signage in the Bengaluru Metro. Initially, it was restricted only to the virtual world and the authorities chose to look the other way. But the campaign gained momentum in a month and the Siddaramaiah government was forced to react. The new movement for Kannada is now being led by young, well-educated professionals with a world view. Unlike the traditional activists, dubbed as fringe by the mainstream media, these activists are mostly invisible. They are methodical and want to fight for the primacy of Kannada in Karnataka through democratic means. DP Satish writes why political parties must mind the language during the battle for Karnataka.

On reel

Why do people hesitate to talk about menstruation? Why are sanitary pads some sort of an evil that's not supposed to be seen or touched? Here's a candid chat with the folks of Delhi.

(Get a fresh dose of the news that matters, delivered directly to your inbox, every morning. The perfect way, to get you started and informed, for the day ahead. Subscribe to News18 Daybreak here.)Muscat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said his visit to Oman and talks with the oil-rich Gulf nation's top leadership will impart a "substantial momentum" to all spheres of bilateral ties.

"This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come," Modi tweeted before concluding his two-day visit to Oman during which the two countries signed eight agreements, including one on enhancing defence cooperation.

"This visit has helped in building upon the centuries-old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations," Modi said.

"Thank you Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos (bin Said al Said) for your exceptional warmth, hospitality and friendship, as also your personal attention to details, that made my visit to Oman one of the most memorable visits I have undertaken anywhere," the Prime Minister said.

Modi also expressed gratitude to the Sultan and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection.

"We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman," he said as he concluded his three-nation visit to the Palestine, the UAE and Oman.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the final leg of his three-nation tour, led talks with Sultan Qaboos last night on a wide range of issues.

During the meeting, several aspects of the existing cooperation between the two countries and means of promoting the good relations between them were discussed, the official Oman News Agency reported.

"Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of "honest and hard working" Indian nationals in the development of Oman.

After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation. According to Oman News Agency, it envisages the services of Duqm Port and dry-dock for maintenance for Indian military vessels.

Secretary-General of Oman's Ministry of Defence Mohammed bin Nasser al Rasbi said there are many areas of cooperation with the Indian side, whether in the field of joint exercises, training or courses, as well as exchange of experiences between the two sides and some defence purchases and projects.

India's Ambassador Indra Man Pandey said that signing the MoUs will promote cooperation between the two friendly countries.

He said that the Indian companies have a strong presence in Oman and have significant investments in the Omani free zones and ports in Suhar and Salalah. He said Indian investments are estimated at USD 1.8 billion in two projects in Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZD).

The volume of trade exchange during this year is expected to reach USD 5.5 billion, Pandey was quoted as saying.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

Modi today met Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

Modi and the two leaders exchanged views on intensifying ties in the areas of energy, trade and investment, food security, defence and security, mining and other sectors.

He also had a meeting with leading business leaders and investors.

Modi also offered prayers at the 125-year-old Shiva Temple, one of the oldest in the region. He also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque in Oman.

In Oman, there are over eight lakh Indians and they constitute the largest expatriate community. The prime minister had also addressed the Indian community last night.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.Muscat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said his visit to Oman and talks with the oil-rich Gulf nation's top leadership will impart a "substantial momentum" to all spheres of their bilateral strategic ties.

"This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come," Modi tweeted before concluding his two-day visit to Oman during which the two countries signed eight agreements, including one on enhancing defence cooperation.

"This visit has helped in building upon the centuries-old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations," Modi said.

"Thank you Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos (bin Said al Said) for your exceptional warmth, hospitality and friendship, as also your personal attention to details, that made my visit to Oman one of the most memorable visits I have undertaken anywhere, the prime minister said.

Modi also expressed gratitude to the Sultan and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection.

"We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman," he said as he concluded his three-nation visit to the Palestine, the UAE and Oman.

In a joint statement issued today, the two sides agreed that the visit of Prime Minister Modi to Oman helped in further consolidating and deepening the strategic partnership framework and further development of excellent bilateral relations in all spheres, to serve the common interests of the two countries and their peoples.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the final leg of his three-nation tour, led talks with Sultan Qaboos last night on a wide range of issues.

During the meeting, several aspects of the existing cooperation between the two countries and means of promoting the good relations between them were discussed, the official Oman News Agency reported.

"Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of "honest and hard working" Indian nationals in the development of Oman. After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation. According to Oman News Agency, it envisages the services of Duqm Port and dry-dock for maintenance for Indian military vessels.

Secretary-General of Oman's Ministry of Defence Mohammed bin Nasser al Rasbi said there are many areas of cooperation with the Indian side, whether in the field of joint exercises, training or courses, as well as exchange of experiences between the two sides and some defence purchases and projects.

India's Ambassador Indra Man Pandey said that signing the MoUs will promote cooperation between the two friendly countries. He said that the Indian companies have a strong presence in Oman and have significant investments in the Omani free zones and ports in Suhar and Salalah. He said Indian investments are estimated at USD 1.8 billion in two projects in Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZD).

The volume of trade exchange during this year is expected to reach USD 5.5 billion, Pandey was quoted as saying. The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses. Modi today met Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said.

Modi and the two leaders exchanged views on intensifying ties in the areas of energy, trade and investment, food security, defence and security, mining and other sectors. He also had a meeting with leading business leaders and investors.

Modi also offered prayers at the 125-year-old Shiva Temple, one of the oldest in the region. He also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque in Oman. In Oman, there are over eight lakh Indians and they constitute the largest expatriate community. The prime minister had also addressed the Indian community last night.

Bilateral trade rose 3.6 per cent from USD 3.8 billion in 2015-16 to USD 4 billion in 2016-17. On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.Jammu: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday made it clear that the sacrifice of soldiers killed in the attack on the Sunjuwan camp will not go in vain and Pakistan will pay the price for its misadventure.

She asserted that even though evidence of Pakistan's role may be shared, India still reserved the right to respond adequately at the time of its choosing. "Pakistan will pay for this misadventure. I repeat Pakistan will pay for it, the defence minister, who was in Jammu to take stock of the situation, told reporters.

The attack was the worst in months, with five soldiers and the father of one of the soldiers killed and women and children among the ten wounded. Three terrorists were also gunned down. Pakistan, however, has denied responsibility and said India should not rush to judgment without a full inquiry.

Sitharaman said that Pakistan has been expanding its arc of terror to areas south of Pir Panjal and its role behind the attack stands exposed. She said that the terrorists who sneaked into the family quarters of the camp belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, which is sponsored by Azhar Masood, who resides in Pakistan and derives support from the countrys establishment.

These terrorists were sponsored by Pakistan. Their handlers are across the border. There is also a possibility that they enjoyed local support, she said.

Asked whether the government was sharing evidence with Pakistan, Sitharaman replied in the affirmative. "Yes, all the evidences which have been collected will be compiled and definitely the evidences will be given as always to Pakistan. But Pakistan, despite being given dossiers after dossiers, has not taken any action, she said.

Giving out the details of the attack, Sitharaman said that three terrorists were killed while the fourth was a guide and he did not enter the campus. She said that the forces have completed their operation, but sanitization of the premises is still underway.

Counter terrorist operation at the military camp was called off this morning but sanitisation operations were still on, she added. The defence minister said the JeM module which conducted the attack may have infiltrated sometime back and possibly enjoyed local support.

"The demography of the cantonment and adjoining areas indicate the possibility of local support to the terrorists and an alert had been sounded on the likelihood of an attack by the terrorists around this period," she said.

The defence minister said that quick reaction teams (QRTs) were deployed in vulnerable areas. It was assessed that Pak-Sponsored terrorists may target softer elements, hence, QRTs were also positioned at Sunjuwan family quarters, she said.

Sitharaman said the intrusions of the terrorists was promptly detected by the sentry and challenged by a nearby QRT leading to the brief exchange of fire. "This immediate action forced terrorists to split into individual positions and prevented a coordinated strike. The scattered terrorists reached the family quarters and occupied some of the blocks," she said.

They were isolated, and since the terrorists were dressed in battle fatigues, and had an appearance similar to their possible victims, the operation had to be done "deliberately slow" to avoid collateral damages, she said. She complemented the valour of soldiers for carrying out the entire operation with precision. A 189 flats had to be cleared, she said.

When asked if the high number of terror attacks was a sign of any security lapses, the defence minister said that Sunjuwan camp is just 30 km from international border, and the tough terrain and snow conditions make it difficult to completely stop infiltration. She said that the high number of ceasefire violations on the Line of Control are being done to assist infiltration into Kashmir.

She refused to be drawn into the controversy over Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers statement that talks with Pakistan are a must to end bloodshed in the Valley. Without answering if talks were a possibility, she said that she shares the grief of Mufti.Kolkata: Science organisations in the city came together to observe 'Darwin Week' from on Sunday to effectively put to rest any "confusion" regarding his 'theory of evolution'.

The 'Darwin Week' was being observed by the India March for Science Organising Committee, Kolkata and Breakthrough Science Society, West Bengal Chapter.

The event will look to generate awareness among the public, including students, about Darwin's contributions to the science of evolution, and "to dispel any confusion in this regard among the young minds," Prof Nilesh Maity said on behalf of the organisers.

Charles Darwin's theory of evolution was recently challenged by Union Minister of State for Human Resource Development Satyapal Singh, at a function in Aurangabad. Singh had claimed that Darwin's theory was "scientifically wrong" and proposed to drop it from the school and college curriculum.

As his comments triggered a row, Singh's senior Cabinet colleague Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar said he had asked the MoS to refrain from making comments on issues such as Darwin's Evolution theory.

Eminent academicians from different institutions, students and reseachers will be taking part in seminars and popular talks in educational institutions in the city from February 12-18 during the 'Darwin Week'.New Delhi: The Supreme Court has stayed FIR proceedings on Major Aditya and other Army officials in the Shopian firing case.

A bench of the apex court issued notices to the government and sought a reply in two weeks. The Supreme Court also sought assistance of Attorney General KK Venugopal in the matter.

The SC had on Friday agreed to hear the plea of father of Major Aditya, who was booked as an accused by Jammu and Kashmir Police in the Shopian firing incident.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud considered advocate Aishwarya Bhati's submission that the plea of the father is heard on an urgent basis.

The lawyer said the FIR has illegally been lodged against Major Aditya Kumar in connection with the firing incident in Shopian.

Lieutenant Colonel Karamveer Singh said his son, a major in 10 Garhwal Rifles, was "wrongly and arbitrarily" named in the FIR as the incident relates to an Army convoy that was on bonafide military duty in an area under the AFSPA and was isolated by an "unruly and deranged" mob pelting stones, causing damage to military vehicles.

Two civilians were killed when Army personnel fired at a stone-pelting mob in Ganovpora village in Shopian, prompting the chief minister to order an inquiry into the incident.

The FIR was registered against personnel of 10 Garhwal Rifles, including Major Kumar, under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Ranbir Penal Code.New Delhi: With violence spiraling in the Valley, leaders of both the ruling party and opposition in Kashmir have appealed to engage in peace talks with Pakistan.

Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister and PDP supremo Mehbooba Mufti said on Monday that talks are necessary "to end the bloodshed". While on the other hand, former Chief Minister and leader of National Conference, Farooq Abdullah spoke on similar lines and said that Pakistan must take steps to resolve the situation and end bloodshed.

Mufti took to Twitter in reaction to the attacks on Sunjuwan Army camp in Jammu and a CRPF camp in Karan Nagar, Srinagar, and said, "Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option."

Later, speaking at the state Assembly, she hit out at some media houses for labelling those favoring dialogues with Pakistan as anti-nationals.

She said, Unfortunately, some media houses have created an atmosphere that if we talk of any dialogue (with Pakistan) then we are labelled anti-national."

She was also quoted by ANI as saying, "We fought and won all wars against Pakistan but even today, there is no solution other than dialogue. How much longer will our jawans and civilians keep dying? Wonder what some media houses would have called Atalji if he took the bus to Lahore in todays time and talked of dialogue."

At the same time, when political leaders in the state are calling for talks with Pakistan, senior BJP leaders didn't seem to agree. Speaking to CNN-News18, BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav said, How can both terrorism and talks happen together. Terrorism must end first. India has never shied away from talks.

At the same time, the NC chief Farooq Abdullah told reporters that Pakistan needs to know that guns and violence are not going to help them.

He said Pakistan must adopt such an approach "that will solve the situation and also help us progress. A lot of blood has been spilled and it hasn't benefitted anyone. If the situation persists then India will also have to think of their next step.New Delhi: A tip-off about the movement of terrorists in Srinagar's downtown area two days ago helped save many lives and minimise damage in the encounter at Karan Nagar on Monday.

According to senior officials supervising the operations, agencies had received a tip-off from their sources about terrorists moving around in parts of the city. Coupled with other alerts of fidayeen attacks, the army, CRPF and the police put their installations on the highest alert, sources said.

"Sometime after the encounter in Jammu's Sunjuwan army camp started, we received information about movement of some Lashkar terrorists in Srinagar. At the same time, through telephone intercepts, we also got to know that the terror group was preparing for a big fidayeen attack. This is what made us put all our installations and other vital installations in the valley on a very high alert," a senior police officer told News18.

Unlike what happened in Sunjuwan camp in Jammu, as soon as the terrorists tried to sneak into the Karan Nagar CRPF camp, the alert sentry there immediately engaged them in a gun battle and managed to keep them away from the camp and confined in a limited area.

An elderly woman being rescued by the police near the site of gun battle between the security forces personnel and militants at Karan Nagar, in Srinagar on Monday. (PTI Photo by S Irfan)

The paramilitary force has been congratulated by the home ministry and by the Jammu and Kashmir DGP for their handling of Monday's operations. One CRPF soldier died in the gun battle.

The fidayeen attack on Monday was the first carried out by Lashkar after its commander Naveed Jutt, managed to escape from police custody by killing two policemen on February 8.

According to information available with security agencies, Jutt is already on the move in the valley, and has been spotted at various places in Kulgam and Shopian. He was the deputy chief of Lashkar's operations in the valley in 2014 when he was captured alive by the forces.

Security agencies suspect that Jutt is coordinating a big attack by the terror groups, all of who have joined forces after police's offensive against them in 2017.

Owing to the multiple attacks on security forces deployed in J&K - on army's camp in Sunjuwan and CRPF's camp in Karan Nagar - the Home Minister has called for an emergency meeting with his advisors at his residence on Monday evening.Britains Prince Harry and his fiancee Meghan Markle will celebrate their wedding day with members of the public by taking a carriage ride through the English town of Windsor, the prince's office at Kensington Palace said today.

Queen Elizabeth's grandson, fifth-in-line to the throne, and Markle, who stars in the U.S. TV legal drama Suits, announced their engagement last year and their marriage is to take place on May 19 in St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle. Shortly after a midday wedding ceremony, the couple will make their first public appearance as husband and wife in a roughly two mile carriage procession.

"They hope this short journey will provide an opportunity for more people to come together around Windsor and to enjoy the atmosphere of this special day," Kensington Palace said in a statement, setting out new details of the wedding day. The route will finish with a ride up the long, broad 17th century parkland avenue that leads to Windsor Castle, home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years. Their exchange of wedding vows will be officiated by Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, the spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion. The wedding service itself will be conducted by Dean of Windsor, David Conner.

The wedding is likely to attract huge attention around the world, as did the marriage of Harry's elder brother William to Kate Middleton in 2011, which was watched by an estimated two billion people. Kensington palace said Harry and Markle would join guests at a reception inside Windsor Castle after the procession. Harry's father, Prince Charles, would later host an evening reception for close friends and family. Markle, who is a divorcee, met Harry in July 2016 after they were introduced through a mutual friend, with both knowing little about the other. After just two dates, the couple decided to go on holiday together to Botswana.Johann Johannsson, the award-winning Icelandic composer whose haunting yet minimalist scores instilled depth in films full of abstraction, has died, his manager announced Saturday. He was 48.

Johannsson was found dead Friday at his apartment in Berlin, where authorities were investigating the cause of death, said Tim Husom, his Los Angeles-based manager. "I'm so very sad. Today, I lost my friend who was one of the most talented musicians and intelligent people I knew," Husom said in a statement.

Johannsson, who blended classical form and electronic instrumentation, had become an increasingly in-demand musician for directors whose films probed more theoretical ideas. He won the Golden Globe for Best Original Score for The Theory of Everything, about physicist Stephen Hawking.

Johannsson was nominated again for Arrival, for which he altered human voices to create amorphous, otherworldly sounds to dramatize the story of a linguist seeking to communicate with an extraterrestrial visitor.

He scored several films out in 2018, including Mary Magdalene, a biblical drama about the much-debated female follower of Jesus.

While Johannsson won acclaim outside of the film world as an avant-garde composer, he was careful never to make his music needlessly convoluted or overbearing. He kept strong, repeated melodies and said that many movies had far too much music, not allowing silences that were also crucial.

"I think my music is a way of communicating very directly with people and with people's emotions. I try to make music that doesn't need layers of complexity or obfuscation to speak to people," he told the online interview magazine The Talks in 2015.

Daniel Pemberton, the composer for films including Danny Boyle's biopic Steve Jobs, said he sat transfixed when he heard Johannsson's music for Sicario which showed "you could still do something radically new in mainstream film music."

"He was always pushing the boundaries, creating works of art so unique and exciting it becomes hard to imagine they didn't exist before," Pemberton wrote on Twitter. The experimental DJ Flying Lotus tweeted that he was in "disbelief" over his death, calling Johannsson a major influence and hailing his score for the new thriller "Mandy."

Growing up in Reykjavik, Johannsson said he listened to everything from John Philip Sousa marches to deafening shoegaze rockers The Jesus and Mary Chain, but was transformed when he discovered ambient music pioneer Brian Eno.

Largely self-taught as a musician, Johannsson studied literature and took inspiration from the French Oulipo school of writers such as Georges Perec who aimed to stir up fresh ideas by imposing constraining rules on their compositions.

Johannsson co-founded Kitchen Motors, the influential Icelandic artist collective that also helped launch experimental rockers Sigur Ros, and in 2002 released his first album, Englaborn, set to a theatrical piece. His most ambitious albums included IBM 1401, A User's Manual, inspired by the early mass-manufactured computer.

Johannsson's father, a programmer in 1960s Iceland, had playfully transformed the computer into a musical instrument by making reel-to-reel recordings. Turning the concept of computerized music on its head, Johannsson made his ode to the clunky old computer fully human by writing for a 60-piece string orchestra.

He again brought in strings for the mournful melodies of his 2008 album Fordlandia, inspired by Henry Ford's disastrous project to build a city for rubber plant workers in Brazil.

Johannsson in 2016 signed a record deal with leading classical label Deutsche Grammophon and released Orphee, an exploration of portrayals of Orpheus, the legendary bard of music, from ancient Greece onward.

Johannsson had little sign of slowing down and was recently announced on the lineup of Barcelona's 'Primavera Sounds' festival. Arrival was Johannsson's third film collaboration with Denis Villeneuve, although the French Canadian director surprisingly replaced him for last year's anticipated sci-fi sequel Blade Runner 2049.Lucknow: Firebrand BJP leader, Union Minister Uma Bharti has said that she would not be contesting elections anymore citing age and health issues. Working in the interest of the party will continue though.

The MP from Jhansi said she was a two-time Member of Parliament and since she had done a lot of party work, her health had been affected. The BJP leader elaborated by saying she had been facing problems with her knees and back.

Speaking to media in Jhansi, Uma Bharti said, I have been a two-time Parliamentarian and have worked a lot for the party over year due to which I have developed problems in my knees. Now I will not contest any more elections but will continue to work for the party.

The current Cabinet Minister for Drinking Water and Sanitation contested her first election in 1984 but was unsuccessful. Post this, she contested from Khajuraho seat in 1989 and successfully retained the seat till 1999 before finally switching her constituency to Bhopal.

During her political career, Uma Bharti had held various state-level and cabinet-level portfolios in the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Tourism, Youth Affairs and Sports, and also in Coal and Mines during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. After Narendra Modi became PM in 2014, she was appointed the Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, and held this office until September 2017.Bengaluru: Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa today hit out at Congress President Rahul Gandhi for reportedly visiting a temple after eating "Javari chicken" during his ongoing tour of northern parts of the poll-bound state.

"At one side there is 10 percent CM Siddaramaiah who took darshan of Dharmasthala Manjunatha after eating fish, on the other side there is Election Hindu @OfficeOfRG (Rahul Gandhi) who took darshan of Narasimha Swamy after eating Javari chicken," Yeddyurappa said in a tweet in Kannada.

"Why is Congress repeatedly hurting Hindu sentiments? Looking at everyone equally is Samajawad (socialism), your's is majawad (enjoyment)," Yeddyurappa, the Chief ministerial candidate of BJP, said in the tweet with clippings of reports about Gandhi visiting the temple after 'eating' chicken.

Last year, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was involved in a controversy for eating fish at lunch before going to the Lord Manjunatha Swamy temple. It was seen as disrespect to the main deity of the temple, with the issue creating a buzz in the social media.

However, Siddaramaiah had dismissed the criticism. Gandhi, who is on a temple trail during his election campaign in northern Karnataka districts, had yesterday stopped at Kanakagiri in Koppal district and visited the Kanakachala Laxmi-Narasimha temple.

The temple, built by a local chieftain, has a history of 500 years of existence. Speaking to reporters earlier at Shahpur in Yadgir district, Gandhi today defended his visits to temples and religious places, asserting that he would continue them.

"I like going to temples, wherever I get religious place I go there. I feel good and feel happy, and I will continue (to go)," he told reporters.

On a four-day election campaign in Karnataka, where assembly elections are due early this year, Gandhi was responding Yeddyurappa's earlier "Election Hindu" jibe at him.

"I heartily welcome #ElectionHindu @OfficeOfRG to Ballari. The #Congress President will fulfil our dream of a #CongressMuktKarnataka," Yeddyurappa had said in a tweet, ahead of Gandhi's visit to the state from February 10.Kohima: Nagaland's biggest church organisation, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), has asked believers to choose between 'Trishul' and 'Cross'.

The church organisation asked believers to not surrender Christian principles and faith for the sake of money, development into the hands of those who seek to pierce the heart of Jesus Christ.

The NBCC, in an open letter to presidents of all political parties in Nagaland, had earlier stated that India had experienced its "worst persecution of minority communities" in 2015-2017 under the BJP government.

We cannot deny that the Hindutva movement in the country has become unprecedentedly strong and invasive in the last few years with BJP, the political wing of RSS, in power, the NBCC general secretary observed in the letter.

God must be weeping when Naga politicians are running after those who seek to destroy Christianity in India, he added.

Strongly opposing what it called the "invasion" of Hindutva forces in Nagaland, Rev Keyho said that the party in power at the Centre is fighting tooth-and-nail to assert its presence in Nagaland, a Christian-majority state.

The letter went on to state, Our people are fond of propaganda and because of this we often miss reality. India has experienced its worst persecution ever in 2015-2017. You will be fully aware that persecutions have been tripled in recent years. Pastors, evangelists and missionaries are dragged openly in the streets, harassed, insulted and many made to suffer. Their homes destroyed and children discriminated in schools. Worship places were burnt down and believers are often disturbed and harassed. The Bible is openly burnt and confiscated.

Elections in Nagaland are usually fought on tribal issues, given that most of the candidates are mostly Christian. It is in this respect that this letter is viewed as unprecedented for its openly political-religious tones.

The Nagaland BJP is yet to reply to the open letter.

Some political observers claim that the BJP has been on the backfoot in both Nagaland and Meghalaya for issues like beef ban and atrocities against minorities, particularly Christians.

The state elections in Nagaland will be held on February 27, 2018, to elect 60 representatives. Counting of votes will take place on March 3, 2018.Chennai: DMK has opposed the unveiling of former Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalaithaas portrait at the secretariat on Monday. The party boycotted the event and filed a petition in the Madras High Court, which has said that it will take up the matter on Tuesday.

DMK MLA J Anbazhagan also submitted a representation to Assembly Speakers office on Sunday against the event.

The DMK has condemned the portrait stating that Jayalalithaa had been convicted in a disproportionate assets case and therefore wasnt eligible for such the honour.

DMK working president MK Stalin slammed the AIADMK government and tweeted saying, "This move has brought down the dignity and sanctity of the House. Despite opposition from DMK and other parties, Speaker has gone ahead and allowed this to happen. This is unacceptable."

State Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal unveiled the portrait in the presence of CM E Palaniswami, deputy CM O Panneerselvam and other MLAs.

CM Palaniswami defended his governments decision and said Jayalalithaas picture would be a great honour as she has been inspirational to the people of Tamil Nadu. He had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May last year and urged him to unveil the portrait.

A PIL against placing portraits of convicted leaders in government buildings has been pending in the Madras High Court.Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday claimed that he knew "from the very beginning" that his alliance with Lalu Prasad's RJD "would not last for more than a year-and-a-half", but he did his best to carry on in the Grand Alliance, which ultimately disintegrated last year.

The Grand Alliance ministry, headed by Kumar, collapsed in July last year after the chief minister resigned over graft charge against his then deputy, Tejashwi Yadav.

Subsequently, Kumar joined hands with the BJP to form another coalition government in Bihar.

"The very day the Mahagathbandhan government was installed, I had said to those close to me that this was not going to last for more than a year-and-a-half. I knew it from the very beginning. I still managed to carry on for 20 months," the JD(U) chief told reporters here on the sidelines of his weekly "Lok Samvad" (public interaction) programme.

He said this while reacting to the allegations of "betrayal of mandate", levelled against him by the RJD and the Congress - the two other constituents of the erstwhile "Mahagathbandhan".

The Grand Alliance was formed shortly after the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when Kumar and Prasad decided to bury the hatchet. Both the JD(U) and the RJD had suffered a severe drubbing in the Parliamentary election, which saw the BJP putting up its best-ever electoral performance, riding on a strong wave in favour of Narendra Modi.

However, Kumar's statement drew flak from former JD(U) president Sharad Yadav, who had raised a banner of revolt when the Bihar chief minister joined hands with the BJP.

"If he (Kumar) knew that the alliance was not going to last, why did he agree for such a tie-up in the first place. It is an illogical thing to say. He is suffering from pangs of guilt for his volte-face and trying to justify his actions by such utterances," Yadav told a TV news channel in Delhi.

Yadav was disqualified from the Rajya Sabha a couple of months ago, following an application by the JD(U), which had held that the former party president's presence at rallies and meetings organised by the RJD-Congress combine were tantamount to his having "voluntarily renounced" the membership of the party.

Reacting to Kumar's statement, Tejashwi Yadav tweeted, saying, "This is what I have been saying since the beginning that Tejashwi was just an excuse. Paltu chacha (turncoat uncle) had vicious plans beforehand."

"The respected 67-year-old should be ashamed that he made a 28-year-old an excuse for his shenanigans. Uncle, you could have parted ways like a man," Yadav, who is the younger son of Lalu Prasad, said.New Delhi: Attacking Union Minister Kiren Rijiju for his tweet defending RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) today alleged that it has become "even more evident" that the government is being "remote- controlled" by the Sangh.

"A minister of the government is supporting and defending the RSS. Kiren Rijiju is not a minister of state but a minister of Sangh," Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien told reporters today.

Referring to Bhagwat's remarks on the Army and the incident in Kolkata where the DG BSF K K Sharma had, in uniform, reportedly attended a conference on border security conducted by an RSS-affiliated organisation, the TMC said it cannot be coincident.

"Every constitutional institution is becoming marginalised. Raj Bhavans have now become shakhas and some governors have become RSS pracharaks. Tripura Governor has become another troll army of RSS," O'Brien alleged.

After a row over Bhagwat's remarks on the Army, Minister of State for Home Rijiju today tweeted that "Bhagwat had only said it takes 6-7 months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has the ability to contribute".

"After the tweet of Rijiju, it has become even more evident that this government is being remote-controlled by the RSS," the Trinamool leader said.

The TMC is likely to give notices in Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha on what it called the "breakdown of constitutional institutions" in the second half of Budget session of parliament.

The Mamata Banerjee-led party said that since the BJP had realised that they have "lost the narrative on the real issues, they are trying to capture the constitutional institutions including the government and parliament".

The RSS today clarified that Bhagwat had not compared the Indian Army with Sangh volunteers and his remarks on the matter were "misrepresented".Raichur (Karnataka): Congress president Rahul Gandhi took a break from his temple run in poll-bound Karnataka and stopped at a roadside stall in Kalmala village of Raichur district to savour pakodas along with some local dishes on Monday.

While it was not clear whether Gandhi was just hungry or it was a well-choreographed photo-opportunity, the symbolism of his pakoda party was not lost on anybody as it came amid the raging controversy over the Prime Ministers remark that even a pakoda seller should be considered gainfully employed.

The Congress has latched on to the PMs statement and has been using it as a metaphor to drive home the point that the Modi government is clueless about creating jobs. It has held numerous protests in the state, with the partys youth wing members selling pakodas while wearing graduation robes.

Gandhi, who is in the third day of his campaign trail in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region, was accompanied by Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah and party leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, KC Venugopal and DK Shivakumar.

The Congress chief had started his day by paying a visit to the Shams-e-alam mosque in Raichur district, in a departure from his pre-election strategy in Gujarat during which he abstained from visiting any religious places, but temples, to project what has been dubbed by political observers as a soft Hindutva approach.

Rahul Gandhi, travelling in a customised bus, was greeted by party workers and people who lined up on both sides of the road at various places. (Photo: News18)

Although sources described the mosque visit as an impromptu stop, he was welcomed by a huge crowd there and youth Congress workers also unfurled a 100-feet tall flag to commemorate his entry. Loud cheers were the order of the day at three other receptions planned for him at Gunj Circle, Kalmala and Gubber in Raichur.

He also took a leaf out of Prime Minister Narendra Modis book as while addressing a rally in Devdurga later, he took a five-minute pause on hearing the azan, the call for prayer for Muslims. He received a huge applause when he resumed. PM Modi too, had made a similar gesture in 2016 during his election campaign in Kharagpur in West Bengal.

During his address to the tribal community of Devdurga, Rahul slammed the Modi government for neglecting the Dalit and SC/ST community.

He accused the Modi government of diverting funds meant for SC/STs to corporates instead. "Modi government allocated Rs 55,000 crore for the welfare of dalits and tribals in one year while the Karnataka government alone allocated Rs 27,000 crore, Gandhi said.

Gandhi also lashed out at BJP leaders in the state over allegations of corruption. Modiji you talk of corruption. Modiji, if you have some time after talking of the past, look at your left and right sides... On one side is (BS) Yeddyurappa who has been to the jail. On the other side, as many as four (former) ministers who went to jail... and behind, 11 leaders who had to resign on charges of corruption," he said.

Addressing roadside meetings, the Congress president also said farmers had asked the prime minister for help. "I had personally gone to his office and requested him to waive their loans, Narendra Modi did not even utter a word and he kept quiet."

Travelling in a customised bus along with other leaders from the state, Gandhi was greeted by party workers and people who lined up on both sides of the road at various places. Referring to various initiatives of the Congress government like Article 371(J) of the Constitution, giving special status for Hyderabad-Karnataka region, farm loan waiver, employment to youths, Gandhi said, "We will work even better in the coming years on being voted to power."Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday staunchly defended RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's comparison of Swayamsevaks with the Army, saying there was nothing wrong if a civil organisation talks about defending the nation's borders.

Addressing the press after weekly Lok Samvad in Patna, Nitish, while answering a question on RSS chief's comments, said, "What is wrong in it. As per my information he has talked about readiness of his organisation for the defending country's border. It should be welcomed if any civil organisation does that. I don't think there is any harm in that."

His comments came after a row erupted over Bhagwat's statement in Muzaffarpur on Sunday where he had said that while it takes six-seven months for army to train and prepare for battle, RSS can do that within three days.

After the uproar, RSS released a statement, saying that the statement had been misconstrued and he never intended to compare RSS workers with the Army.

The RSS chief is on ten days visit to Bihar to oversee organisational expansion. He is likely to informally interact with BJP leaders in Patna on Tuesday and Wednesday.

However, there is no information on whether any meeting has been planned between Nitish and Bhagwat as the former has been avoiding a meeting even after joining hands with BJP to form the government in the state. After Nitish joined NDA, this is Bhagwat's third visit to the state.Amazon.com is looking to lease a 50,000-square-meter warehouse just outside Sao Paulo, people familiar with the matter told Reuters, as it steps up its push into Latin America's biggest retail market, Brazil. The logistics investment, which would be four times the size of its current book-shipping operation in the country, is a sign the online retailer may soon handle distribution of electronics and other goods sold on its Brazilian website.

Also read: Google to Display Getty Images Content in Its Products And Services

That would be the first step of its kind for Amazon in Latin America's largest economy, where it currently relies on third parties to ship their own goods sold on its marketplace, and it underscores the seriousness of the e-commerce giant's renewed push into Brazil. Amazon declined to comment on the possible warehouse lease. While an estimated two-thirds of Brazil's 209 million people have internet access, online retail was slow to take off at first, amid concerns over security and complications with tax and logistics in the continent-sized country.

E-commerce accounts for around 5 percent of Brazil's roughly $300 billion retail market  about half its share in the United States  but it has doubled in the past four years and is forecast to keep growing annually at a double-digit pace. Now Amazon, which expanded its Brazil business from books to electronics in October, is gearing up to fight rivals such as Latin Ameria's homegrown e-commerce champion Mercado Libre Inc and B2w Cia Digital, which is indirectly controlled by partners of private equity group 3G Capital.

Also read: Google to Display Getty Images Content in Its Products And Services

"You obviously can't underestimate a company like Amazon," said Pedro Guasti, CEO of Brazilian online consultancy Ebit. "It has huge capacity to invest and it's obviously taking a bigger bite of the cake than it did last year." Mercado Libre Inc, B2w and local retailer Magazine Luiza SA have gotten the jump on Amazon by storing and shipping goods appearing on their websites even when offered by third-party sellers, to ensure speed and customer satisfaction.

Amazon, by contrast, has been slow to tackle the challenges of shipping in a country where tricky logistics and tax issues have long made online retail an unprofitable venture. After the Reuters report that Amazon was eyeing the new Brazilian warehouse space, shares of Mercado Libre plunged as much as 7 percent, while Magazine Luiza dropped 5 percent and rival Via Varejo SA shed up to 6 percent. All three stocks closed the day about 3 percent lower.

B2W lost as much as 8.5 percent and closed 7 percent lower. "Markets get spooked when they see an investment by Amazon," a Brazilian trader said. "There is fear that the company will become more aggressive with its strategy in Brazil."

MEXICAN CONTRAST

In Mexico, Amazon has already taken a more aggressive approach, launching its third-party marketplace coupled with its own shipping service, called "Fulfillment by Amazon," in 2015. The contrast has been stark. Nearly 20 percent of reviews on Amazon's Brazilian marketplace are negative, compared with 10 percent in Mexico and just 4 percent in the United States, according to e-commerce analytics firm Marketplace Pulse.

Complaints in Brazil often focus on delayed or cancelled orders - a problem dramatically reduced in other countries when Amazon itself packs and posts orders of third-party goods stored at its warehouse facilities. In an early sign of Amazon's Brazilian logistics push, the company posted more than a dozen listings for distribution jobs in the country to LinkedIn last year, including "Site leader, Fulfillment Center".

The new warehouse site outside of Sao Paulo, in the municipality of Cajamar, looks to be a step in that direction. There San Francisco-based logistics company Prologis Inc has offered a 50,000-square-meter space to Amazon in a new industrial park that hosts DHL and Samsung, according to sources, who said adaptation of the warehouse had not begun.

Prologis, which also partnered with Amazon on a mega-warehouse north of Mexico city last year, declined to comment. The preparations in Brazil come as Luft, the local logistics operator for Amazon's book business, readies a move into another Prologis site nearby in Cajamar, sources said, leaving its current 12,000-square-meter facility in the city of Barueri. Amazon registered in October to conduct operations in Cajamar, according to municipal records seen by Reuters.

Also watch: Sonam Wangchuk, Engineer And Education Reformist | InterviewTwo owners of Google Pixel smartphones who found microphones on their devices to be defective have filed a proposed class action suit in federal court in San Jose, California, the media reported. The suit requests a jury trial and accuses Google of shipping the phones with defective parts, Fortune.com reported on Friday.

Also read: Uber to Pay $245 Million to Settle Waymos Theft Allegations

The two Pixel owners, Patricia Weeks and Waleed Anba, were also not happy about how Google handled customer complaints about the defects. The original Google Pixel phones were launched in 2016. According to a report at the tech news site Ars Technica, Weeks informed Google of her problem in March 2017, three months after her December 2016 purchase and therefore she was within her one year warranty.

Also read: Google to Display Getty Images Content in Its Products And Services

Weeks claimed that Google refused to refund her money or replace it even after acknowledging the defect. "Dr. Weeks did not know that the Pixel phones have defective microphones when she bought her phone. Had Google disclosed the defect to her, she would not have bought a Pixel or would have paid substantially less for it," the complaint states.

Anbar, on the other hand, was not within his one year warranty as he bought his phone in December 2016 and reported the issue in January 2018. "We don't comment on ongoing litigation but it might be worth including a link to our help centre page in your story which explains the solutions we have for out-of-warranty customers," Emily Clarke, a Google spokeswoman, told Ars.

Also watch: Sonam Wangchuk, Engineer And Education Reformist | InterviewGetty Images and Google have announced a partnership according to which, the tech giant can now display US-based stock photo agency's content within its various products and services. "This (multi-year global licensing) agreement between Getty Images and Google sets the stage for a very productive, collaborative relationship between our companies," Dawn Airey, CEO, Getty Images, said in a statement.

Also read: Uber to Pay $245 Million to Settle Waymos Theft Allegations

"We will licence our market leading content to Google, working closely with them to improve attribution of our contributors' work and thereby growing the ecosystem," he added. Airey said that with this achievement, both the companies could move forward "with a strong partner to deliver innovative ways to access creative and editorial content online."

Meanwhile, Cathy Edwards, who is an Engineering Director at Google, said, "We're excited to have signed this licence agreement with Getty Images, and we will be using their images across many of our products and services, starting immediately." According to tech website Android Police, the agreement requires that Google make some changes to Image Search, including making copyright disclaimers more prominent and removing direct links to certain images.

The partnership comes in the sequence of a law complaint filed by Getty against Google back in April 2016, accusing Google of anti-competitive practices by promoting its own products and displaying high-resolution images in Search, thereby reducing the need for users to visit the original source website, the report added.

Also watch: Sonam Wangchuk, Engineer And Education Reformist | InterviewBeijing: China continues to differ with Nepal over the height of Mount Everest and sticks to its own calculation of the world's highest peak which is 12 feet less than the Kathmandu's measurement, a media report said today.

China's response came after reports said that Beijing had agreed to accept Nepal's measurement of the mountain, which is almost four meters taller.

The Chinese official media has contradicted the recent 'The New York Times' report that China had recognised the mountain's height as 8,848 meters, quoting Ang Tshering Sherpa, the former head of the Nepal Mountaineering

Association.

China has not changed its measurement of the height of Mount Qomolangma, the Chinese name of the Mt Everest, which stands at 8844.43 meters, state-run Global Times reported.

China recognises Mount Qomolangma as the world's tallest, measuring 8,844.43 meters above sea level, the National Administration of Surveying, Mapping and Geo-information (NASG) told the state-run Xinhua News Agency.

The peak of Mt Everest played a significant role in the settlement of boundary between Nepal and China, which earlier claimed the whole mountain as part of its territory after it took control of Tibet.

But it was finally settled in 1961 after the intervention of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) founder Mao Zedong, who suggested that the boundary line should pass through the summit of the Mt Everest, which was agreed by

Nepal.

More and more international climbers are reportedly using the Tibetan side of the Mt Everest as China has improved facilities compared to Nepal. In 2005, the NASG measured Mt Everest's rock base at 8844.43 meters above sea level.

The depth of the snow on the mountaintop was measured at 3.5 meters. The NASG said that China had never in any form said it has changed the 2005 result, which has been authorised by the central cabinet and released to the public in accordance with relevant regulations.

According to the NASG, the standard height of the mountain is important data for China and international research on mapping, geosciences, environment and climate change and it also showcases comprehensive national strength.

"Each country's surveyors have the intention of making others recognise their own measurements and their own outcome. But the different heights come from different measurement methods," Zhao Kangning, former deputy director of China's National Administration of Global Navigation Satellite Systems and Applications, told the Global Times.

"The different measurements of Mount Qomolangma's height between China and Nepal is a competition over the mountain," Xu Jianying, a research fellow of Research Centre for Chinese Borderland History and Geography at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) said.

However, Li Guoqiang, another expert at CASS, said that "the dispute over the height of Mt Qomolangma should not be politicised".New Delhi: Amid the raging political crisis in the Maldives, China on Monday refuted allegations made by former Maldives President Mohammed Nasheed that Beijing is engaging in grabbing land in the Indian Ocean archipelago nation. "Recently, former Maldivian President Nasheed made a lot of false remarks in the Indian media.

"He pointed fingers at the practical cooperation between China and Maldives and alleged that China engaged in so-called 'land grabbing' of Maldivian islands, which undermines the security of the Indian Ocean region," Ji Rong, spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy here, said in a statement.

"These allegations are apparently groundless with no regard to facts." In an interview to an Indian newspaper, Nasheed sought India's help saying that the Maldives is currently faced with two problems: radical Islam and China's attempts at land grabbing.

He said that China now has 17 islands in that country and talking about investing $40 million but the purpose for this was not known. He said that this problem was a not a bilateral one but multilateral and sought India's intervention.

Nasheed's comments come amid the current political crisis and after Maldives President Abdulla Yameen rushed through Parliament a free trade agreement with China last year, which raised eyebrows in New Delhi as it went against Male's "India First" policy.

India has traditionally held influence in the Indian Ocean atoll nation where China has been trying to make inroads because of the country's strategic location. Experts say the Maldivian crisis could well become a new power struggle between India and China.

Ji, in his statement, said that in recent years, "on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, China and the Maldives have been cooperating on infrastructure and livelihood projects, which has played a positive role in transforming and upgrading the latter's economy and improving its people's livelihood" and these measures have been "widely welcomed" by the Maldivian people".

"As a matter of fact, when Nasheed was the President, China and Maldives have already launched relevant cooperation projects. The 'land grabbing' allegation by Nasheed is apparently meant to serve certain political purposes of him."

The Maldives has plunged into a crisis with President Yameen declaring a state of emergency and arresting the Chief Justice and a former head of state, after the Supreme Court termed as unjust the imprisonment of nine MPs and Nasheed who is in exile.

Yameen sent special envoys to China, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia even as New Delhi politely declined to host the Maldivian Foreign Minister.

Ji also reiterated China's stand that the current situation in Maldives is its "internal affair" and "should be properly resolved through dialogue and negotiation by various parties in the country" as the Maldivian government and people have the "wisdom and ability to properly handle the problems they face and restore order".Washington: US President Donald Trump today unveiled a USD 4 trillion annual budget for the fiscal 2019 beginning October 1, proposing USD 256 million in civilian assistance and USD 80 million in military aid to Pakistan.

The proposal of aid to Pakistan comes weeks after Trump administration suspended nearly USD 2 billion in security assistance to Islamabad due to its inability to take action against terrorist groups operating from its soil.

The White House has said it would consider lifting the freeze if it sees action by Pakistan against terrorist groups. The budgetary proposal says that the military aid depends on Pakistan taking action against terrorist safe havens.

"The budget requests USD 256 million for Pakistan in economic and other assistance to help increase stability, promote economic growth and create opportunities for US businesses," said the annual budgetary proposals sent by the White House to the Congress.

"In addition, the Budget requests USD 80 million in Foreign Military Financing assistance to enhance Pakistan's counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency capabilities, contingent on Pakistan taking appropriate action to expand cooperation in areas where US-Pakistan interests converge and to address areas of divergence, in line with the administration's South Asia strategy," the White House said.

The budget furthers the US goal of a stable and secure South Asia by supporting the Afghan government and security forces in their fight against the Taliban insurgents and jihadist terrorist organisations such as al-Qaeda and ISIS.

It requests more than USD 5 billion for continued US training and assistance for the Afghan security forces and would enable US forces to conduct counter-terrorism operations to ensure that the region cannot be used by jihadist, terrorist groups to plot transnational attacks against the US homeland, citizens overseas, or allies and partners.

"The budget also continues to include funding to support America's partnership with Pakistan," it said. The budget's more than USD 630 million for civilian assistance supports the President's new strategy to empower the people of Afghanistan to take ownership of their future, the White House said.

In addition, the budget strengthens and sustains improvements in education, health, governance and other sectors that are essential for securing a stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

It also allows the US to honour the pledge made at the Brussels conference on Afghanistan, which anticipated gradually declining assistance levels, it added.London: British charity Oxfam was fighting to save its government funding on Monday following revelations about sexual misconduct by staff working in Haiti after a devastating earthquake in 2010.

Senior managers were summoned to a meeting with Britain's aid minister Penny Mordaunt during which she was expected to demand the full facts, with 32 million pounds ($44 million) of government funding to Oxfam hanging in the balance.

The scandal was fast escalating into a broader crisis for Britain's aid sector by bolstering critics in the ruling Conservative Party who have argued that the government should reduce spending on aid in favour of domestic priorities.

Founded in 1942, Oxfam is one of Britain's best-known charities, running humanitarian and aid operations across the globe. Its 650 shops selling second-hand clothes and books to raise funds are a familiar sight on high streets across Britain.

While the government funds that Mordaunt has threatened to withdraw represent only about 8 percent of Oxfam's overall income of 409 million pounds in 2016/17, according to its annual report, the risk for Oxfam is that private donations also drop as a result of the bad publicity.

The scandal broke last week when the Times newspaper reported that some of the charity's staff had paid for sex with prostitutes in Haiti in 2011, in the months after the earthquake.

Oxfam has neither confirmed nor denied that allegation and made no further comment on Monday when contacted by Reuters.

It has said that following an internal investigation into alleged misconduct in 2011 four members of staff had been dismissed and three others, including the Haiti country director, had resigned.

The charity has apologised and said it was ashamed of what had happened, without spelling out what that was. It has also pledged to improve its procedures.

"The misconduct findings related to offences including bullying, harassment, intimidation and failure to protect staff as well as sexual misconduct," Oxfam said in a statement on Friday.

Prime Minister Theresa May's spokesman said the government needed to do more to ensure charities strengthened safeguarding procedures to ensure the "horrific behaviour" seen in Haiti was not repeated.

AID BUDGET DEBATE

Britain is one of only six nations to hit the UN target of spending 0.7 percent of gross national income on aid - about 13 billion pounds a year - but there have been increasingly vitriolic attacks on that spending in recent years.

Meeting the UN target was a policy championed by former Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron as part of his efforts to re-brand his party as more compassionate. But with Cameron gone after campaigning on the losing side in the 2016 Brexit referendum, the political climate on aid has changed.

Priti Patel, an aid critic despite being Mordaunt's predecessor as international development minister, said the Haiti incidents were just "the tip of the iceberg" and there was a "culture of denial" in the sector.

Jacob Rees-Mogg, a prominent right-wing Conservative lawmaker, delivered to May's office on Friday a petition by readers of the Daily Express newspaper complaining that the aid budget was not well spent and should be cut.

Opposition Labour lawmaker Stephen Twigg, who chairs parliament's aid committee, expressed horror at the Haiti allegations but said he was worried that aid critics would seize on the scandal to further their own agenda.

"There will be some who may see an opportunity to say that this is somehow a consequence of our commitment to aid. This isn't, it's a consequence of individuals abusing their power," he told the BBC.

Several other charities sought to forestall criticism by volunteering information about incidents of sexual harassment in their own ranks, and by openly debating the issue.

"The issues raised by the Haiti episode fit a broader pattern. Our societies have a systemic problem associated with male abuse of power," said Kevin Watkins, chief executive officer of Save the Children, another well-known charity.

"Now the spotlight is on the aid sector," he wrote in a blog on Monday, adding that his own organisation had strengthened its internal procedures over the past few days.

Reuters could not independently verify the allegations contained in The Times report and was unable to reach any of the Oxfam staff who worked in Haiti at the time.Dubai: Saudi women need not wear the abayathe loose-fitting, full-length robes symbolic of religious faitha senior member of the top Muslim clerical body said, another indication of the Kingdom's efforts towards modernisation.

On his radio programme, Sheikh Abdullah al-Mutlaq, a member of the Council of Senior Scholars, said Muslim women should dress modestly, but this did not necessitate wearing the abaya.

"More than 90 percent of pious Muslim women in the Muslim world do not wear abayas," Sheikh Mutlaq said on Friday. "So we should not force people to wear abayas."

While not necessarily signalling a change in the law, the statement is the first of its kind from a senior religious figure. It follows the recent pattern of freedoms the Kingdom has been witnessing with the ascent of young Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman to power.

Only the government-appointed clerics associated with the Council of Senior Scholars are allowed to issue fatwas, or Islamic legal opinions. Their interpretations of Islamic law form the basis of Saudi Arabias legal system.

Saudi women have started wearing more colorful abayas in recent years, the light blues and pinks in stark contrast with the traditional black. Open abayas over long skirts or jeans are also becoming more common in some parts of the country.

The trend marks a major change in the last couple of years. In 2016, a Saudi woman was detained for removing her abaya on a main street in the capital of Riyadh. Local media reported that she was detained after a complaint was filed with the religious police.

The Kingdom has seen an expansion in women's rights recently, such as the decision passed to allow women to attend mixed public sporting events and the announcement that Saudi Arabia would grant them the right to drive.

These are some of the many changes the country has undergone in recent months, hailed as proof of a new progressive trend in the deeply conservative Muslim Kingdom.

But despite these changes, the gender-segregated nation is criticized for its continued constraints on women. Activists have blasted the countrys guardianship system which requires a male family member to grant permission for a woman to study abroad, travel and other activities.

On Thursday, a London-based Saudi rights group, ALQST, reported the detention last month of activist Noha al-Balawi, saying she was questioned by Saudi authorities on her involvement with women's rights and human rights movements.

The government's Center for International Communications did not immediately respond to requests for comment.Peshawar: Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) today confirmed that the group's deputy chief Khalid Mehsud alias 'Commander Sajna' was killed in a US drone strike on February 8 in Pakistan's restive northwestern tribal region.

"We confirm that the deputy head of the TTP Khalid Mehsud died in a drone strike," Taliban spokesman Muhammad Khurassani said in a text message to reporters.

Taliban chief Mullah Fazlullah has appointed commander Mufti Noor Wali as his new deputy, Khurassani added. Officials in Pakistan had earlier reported about Sajna's death in a US strike.

He was a leading figure of the Taliban and both Pakistani and American forces were after him for a long time. He was battle-hardened with experience of fighting in Afghanistan. Sajna, in his early 40s, was believed to be involved in an attack on a naval base in Karachi and was credited with masterminding a 2012 jailbreak in which the Taliban freed nearly 400 inmates in the northwestern city of Bannu.

According to BBC, Sajna was the most important militant leader to have been killed since the August 2016 killing of Hafiz Saeed Khan, the leader of so-called ISIS in Af-Pak. It described him as a true successor to the first two chiefs of TTP - Baitullah Mehsud, the group's founder, and Hakimullah Mehsud.

When Mullah Fazlullah became the third TTP leader after Hakimullah's death in a drone strike in 2014, Sajna refused to accept him as the Taliban chief.

Fazlullah tried to sideline Mehsud by naming his rival as the head of the TTP in South Waziristan - but was forced to give in after Mehsud's supporters fought and defeated the Taliban chief's nominees, it added.Paris: The suspected mastermind of France's "heist of the century" went on trial Monday nearly half a century after robbers tunnelled through sewers to snatch the equivalent of 29 million euros from a bank vault.

The 1976 robbery at a Societe Generale branch in the southern city of Nice confounded the police for decades.

Only one person was ever charged with the crime, with most of the gang disappearing, and the loot -- 46 million francs, about 29 million euros ($36 million) in today's money -- was never found.

But in 2010, the case took an unexpected twist when a career criminal wrote a book in which he portrayed himself as the heist's mastermind.

He used a pen name but investigators quickly concluded the writer was Jacques Cassandri, a key mafia figure in Marseille, where he is now standing trial.

He had assumed he was safe because the crime was too old to be prosecuted, but Cassandri is being charged with laundering the millions from the heist -- a crime for which France has no statute of limitations.

Police found the manuscript on Cassandri's computer, and his children later confessed that their father had often bragged about the robbery.

He eventually admitted to orchestrating the intricately planned job that involved at least six people and 30 tanks of acetylene to fuel the welding torches used to cut into safes and safety deposit boxes.

But an investigating magistrate was not convinced, saying Cassandri was broke in 1976 but now sits atop an empire that includes several businesses and real estate.

"This book is a novel, and a novel is not a piece of evidence," one of Cassandri's lawyers has argued.

But Cassandri and several of his relatives are facing a series of questions on his business dealings, with prosecutors also alleging social security fraud and a real estate scam in Corsica.

It is not his first time in court, having been arrested in the early 1970s when police broke up the "French Connection" heroin trade centred in Marseille.

In 1994 he and his wife were sentenced to four years in prison for pimping.

Until his book appeared in 2010, police had assumed the Nice heist was the work of Albert Spaggiari, who was arrested a few months afterwards.

The team spent weeks preparing the robbery, using rubber rafts in the sewers to access the spot where they dug their eight-metre (26-foot) tunnel, installing hundreds of metres of electrical cables to provide lights.

Racy pictures of women were hung along the walls of the tunnel, which were reinforced with concrete, and police later found remains of meals, wine bottles and packs of cigarettes.

Breaking in on a weekend, they took their time going through nearly 200 safe-deposit boxes in the vault as well as the bank's five-ton safe.

Cash, jewelry and gold bars were discovered missing when employees finally realised what had happened on Monday morning -- the robbers had welded the door to the vault shut.

Inside they left a message on the wall: "Sans arme, sans violence et sans haine" - Without weapons, without violence and without hate.

An AFP report at the time told of hundreds of panicky clients mobbing the bank, desperate to know if their wealth was safe.

One woman had to be brought around with a glass of brandy after she fainted upon hearing her jewels were missing.

Spaggiari escaped a few months after his arrest by jumping out of a window at the Marseille courthouse where an accomplice was waiting on a motorcycle.

He was never caught again, eventually dying of throat cancer in 1989.London: Britain will cut off aid funding from any organisation that does not comply with a new review into charities work overseas, aid minister Penny Mordaunt said, describing reports of sexual exploitation in the sector as "utterly despicable".

Oxfam, one of Britain's biggest charities, on Friday condemned the behaviour of some former staff in Haiti after a newspaper report said aid workers had paid for sex while on a mission to help those affected by a 2010 earthquake.

On Sunday, Mordaunt said she would write to British charities working overseas demanding they declare any problems relating to the duty they have to protect their staff and the people they work with from harm and abuse - so-called 'safeguarding'.

She also wanted charities to ensure any historical concerns have been properly dealt with, and spell out their policies for handling such cases. She will meet with the charities regulator this week.

"With regard to Oxfam and any other organisation that has safeguarding issues, we expect them to cooperate fully with such authorities, and we will cease to fund any organisation that does not," Mordaunt said in a statement.

In a statement on Friday, Oxfam neither confirmed nor denied The Times newspaper report but said its misconduct findings had "related to offences including bullying, harassment, intimidation and failure to protect staff as well as sexual misconduct".

Reuters could not independently verify the allegations contained in The Times report and was unable to reach any of the Oxfam staff who worked in Haiti.

"ANGER AND SHAME"

Responding to Mordaunt's comments, Oxfam's Chair of Trustees Caroline Thomson said she shared the "anger and shame that behaviour like that highlighted in Haiti in 2011 happened in our organisation".

She said that as a direct result of the Times story, staff members had raised concerns about how employees in Haiti were vetted and recruited.

The charity said it was introducing a package of measures to strengthen its vetting and induction of staff, particularly in emergencies where it needed to recruit staff quickly. It said significant improvements had been made since 2011.

"Sexual abuse is a blight on society and Oxfam is not immune," Thomson said. "It is not sufficient to be appalled by the behaviour of our former staff - we must and will learn from it and use it as a spur to improvement."

Mordaunt, speaking to the BBC, said she would meet Oxfam representatives on Monday. Her department had not been told in 2011 about the nature of the events reported to have taken place in Haiti, although some details were disclosed to the charities regulator, she added.

"What is so disturbing about Oxfam is that when this was reported to them, they completely failed to do the right thing," she said.

"They let individuals who had undertaken criminal activity, they let them go, they did not tell prosecuting authorities, they did not tell their regulator, they did not tell their donors."

Mordaunt also said she suspected some people were trying to join charities in order to carry out "predatory activities".

"It is utterly despicable that sexual exploitation and abuse continues to exist in the aid sector," Mordaunt said in her overnight statement.Florida: A woman who identified herself as the wife of the suspect in the killings of two Ohio police officers told a 911 emergency operator that her husband shot the men, according to a recording released by authorities on Sunday.

"My husband, he shot the police officers," the woman says in the recording, referring to the suspect, Quentin Smith.

Quentin Smith, 30, was arrested on Saturday after the shootings of Eric Joering, 39, and Anthony Morelli, 54, in Westerville, a suburb of Columbus, said Christa Dickey, the spokeswoman for Westerville's police department.

Joering and Morelli were responding to a domestic disturbance call when they were shot.

President Donald Trump on Sunday again offered prayers for the two officers.

"Just spoke to @JohnKasich to express condolences and prayers to all for the horrible shooting of two great police officers from @WestervillePD. This is a true tragedy!," Trump said in a message on Twitter. Kasich is Ohio's governor.

It was the second time that the president had tweeted about the shootings.

Excluding the shootings in Ohio on Saturday, 12 U.S. law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty this year, nine in firearms-related incidents, according to the non-profit National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.The number of new print magazines started in the U.S. fell by more than half in 2020 to 60, compared tA SOLDIER has been hospitalised after he was shot once on the left ankle by a detective as he tried to restrain two police officers from assaulting a suspect in Gweru over the weekend.



Detective constable Gift Gorongonya allegedly shot Corporal Zico Shumba of the Zimbabwe National Army Military Police who was in military gear. The soldier had just disembarked from a ZNA bus that had just stopped at Amtec garage along the Gweru- Harare Road while travelling from Mvuma.





The police officer who shot the soldier while in the company of another cop, fled from the scene and sought refuge at Gweru Central Police Station.





There was chaos when soldiers besieged the charge office baying for the detectives blood.

Army Public Relations director Lieutenant-Colonel Alphios Makotore confirmed the incident.





I can confirm that one of our members was shot by a police officer in Gweru yesterday (Saturday). However, investigations are still in progress and we do not want to jeopardise them. We are informed that the police officer who shot our officer has been arrested and will appear in court soon, he said.

National Police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba referred questions to police in the Midlands province.





Officer Commanding Midlands Province, Assistant Commissioner (Crime) Tabeth Ntabeni said she was still compiling details of the case and would forward them to Snr Asst Comm Charamba to comment.





We are still compiling the details of the case and as procedure we will give them to Snr Asst Comm Charamba because she is the one who speaks to the media, she said.





A source said detective constable Gorongonya and his colleague constable Chrispen Musiiwa attacked a civilian after they had found him allegedly smoking marijuana at Kudzanayi Bus terminus.





The two detectives chased after the suspect who was running towards Harare Road.

He said the cops fired three shots and apprehended the suspect at Amtec Service Station.

The source said when the cops were assaulting the suspect, a ZNA bus stopped at the service station. Military Police officers who were in the bus disembarked and tried to restrain the two detectives who were assaulting the suspect.





Musiiwa then pointed a gun at Corporal Shumba who managed to disarm him and removed the magazine. Detective Gorongonya immediately opened fire at Corporal Shumba and shot him on the ankle on his left leg, said the source.





The source said the two detectives fled to Gweru Central Police Station while Corporal Shumba was rushed to Zimbabwe Military Academy hospital where he is receiving treatment.





There was commotion at Gweru Central Police Station when soldiers descended there baying for the police detectives blood. High ranking officers from both the army and police were called to persuade the soldiers to leave the police station and proceed with their journey, said the source.





At that time, scores of people had gathered outside Gweru Central to witness what was unfolding before they dispersed when the soldiers went away.





The source said detective Gorongonya was being charged with attempted murder and will appear in court today. ChronicleFOUR private schools that had requested pupils to provide details of their HIV status in violation of the national HIV and Aids policy, have bowed down to pressure.



This was confirmed by the Zimbabwe Doctors Association (ZiMA) secretary general Dr Shingi Bopoto in an interview yesterday.



He said the schools failed to justify inclusion of the requirement for pupils to disclose their HIV status on forms they had given them. Dr Bopoto said the schools also failed to explain how ones HIV status was useful in a school set up.





When we engaged them, they had no justification for including that requirement. In fact it seemed as if it was done by an overzealous someone who designed the questionnaires. The schools where not aware of the impact of such a requirement and they promised to rectify it, said Dr Bopoto.

He refused to disclose the names of the schools. Dr Bopoto warned other schools that it was unlawful to do so.

The HIV and Aids policy is clear that HIV disclosure should be voluntary and for schools to request such results from pupils is clear violation of this policy. Any school that could be making this request to its pupils should be guided accordingly, said Dr Bopoto.





He said ZiMA raised alarm after some of the pupils from these schools approached medical practitioners who are ZiMA members requesting for the tests.

He said all doctors approached refused to carry out the tests citing violation of standing rules and regulation as far as HIV and Aids issues were concerned.





According to the HIV policy, disclosure of ones status is associated with possibilities of stigma and discrimination.





Section 3.1 of the National HIV and Aids policy on confidentiality states that Confidentiality means not disclosing private or personal information without consent. Confidentiality of medical information about people living with HIV infection is important because of the risk of stigma and discrimination in respect of HIV and Aids.





Primary and Secondary Education Minister Professor Paul Mavhima has since ordered schools requesting for pupils status to stop it.





There is no such requirement and if there are schools doing that they should stop forthwith, said Prof Mavhima. HeraldPresident Emmerson Mnangagwa has told Botswana legislators and members of the diplomatic corps that the Zimbabwean government is committed to maintaining the prevailing peace and adhering to the dictates of the constitution by holding elections by July this year.



The Zimbabwean leader, who was on a two day state visit to Botswana met his counterpart, President Ian Khama and was then hosted to a luncheon. One of the major highlights of his visit was being afforded a chance to address the Botswana Parliament in Gaborone.



Accompanied to the august house by the Botswana Vice President and leader of that countrys parliament, Mokgweetsa Masisi, Cde Mnangagwa was welcomed by the Speaker of the Botswana National Assembly, Honourable Gladys Kokorwe on behalf of the legislators.



In his address, President Mnangagwa said parliamentarians are a pivotal part of democracy.

The Parliament of Zimbabwe and the Parliament of Botswana have always had close cooperation at regional, continental and international levels and his has seen bilateral exchange visits by members and staff of the two parliaments. This has helped in sharing experiences and ideas with the aim of adopting best practices to consolidate the role of parliament in national governance, said Cde Mnangagwa.



Zimbabwe and Botswana law makers are members of the SADC Parliamentary Forum and the Pan African Parliament.



The platforms have given the parliaments the opportunity to play a meaningful role in promoting regional integration, good governance, peace and security in the region.



President Mnangagwa commended the legislators for developing model laws like the one on the eradication of child marriages, which was adopted at the 39th SADC Parliamentary Forums Plenary Assembly in June 2016.



It was him, Cde Mnangagwa who launched the model law at the 40th Plenary Assembly in Zimbabwe in November 2016 when he was Vice President of the country and leader of Parliament.



The Zimbabwean leader also urged the legislators to take advantage of the improved channels of communication that are being opened up by the advent of the internet which has seen citizens being able to air their views to their representatives in Parliament through various social media platforms.

Botswana Minister of Local Government, Honourable Slumber Tsogwane hailed the Zimbabwean leaders visit, saying Botswana had been experiencing a dry spell but President Mnangagwas visit was preceded by rainfall which shows how welcome the Zimbabwean leader is.The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) has been keeping 10 refuse compactors bought by Harare City Council at a bonded warehouse for over a month after failing to clear the trucks which are not meant to pay duty.



Under a $30 million loan facility accessed from local banks, Harare bought 30 refuse compactors from one of the worlds leading automotive manufacturing companies, FAW Group Corporation, for $3,1 million and the first nine trucks were delivered last year.



The project, which is meant to improve service delivery, was granted national status by Government. Projects awarded national status are given preferential treatment, including exemptions from paying import duty and other taxes.







Sources at the revenue authority, however, yesterday said Zimra had been facing challenges with its system hence it had failed to process the rebate in time.





Health and Child Care Minister David Parirenyatwa yesterday said his ministry was concerned that such equipment which was critical in combating the spread of water-borne diseases was being kept at a bonded warehouse.





We are very concerned about the situation. Uncollected refuse collection, could see the recurrence of diseases such as cholera compromising the health of our people, he said.





We urge Zimra and City of Harare to solve this impasse with the urgency it requires because refuse compactors are critical in fighting water borne diseases.





Harare City Council Environment Management Committee chairperson Councillor Herbert Gomba said the city was worried that Zimra was compromising the health of Harare residents.





It is very unfortunate that despite our capital city council making efforts to bring services to the people under difficult situations, the Zimra leadership is making concerted efforts to stifle those noble efforts, he said.





We have been made to think that Zimra will understand that cholera and typhoid diseases require collective efforts from all stakeholders including Zimra itself. I am failing to understand how they can keep council equipment for all these weeks at the expense of the health of our people, he said.





He implored Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa to intervene in order to ensure the trucks are released for the betterment of society.





Minister Chinamasa and his deputy Cde Terrence Mukupe could not be reached yesterday but Secretary for Finance Mr William Manungo said he was following up the matter and would respond.





Under the facility ,the city also acquired 10 skip trucks, 10 tipper trucks, three graders, one jet patcher, 25 utility trucks which are at various stages of delivery. HeraldGet the news faster.

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X(Newser)  Both parties agree that America's infrastructure is in need of some serious work after decades of under-investment, but the $1.5 trillion plan President Trump plans to roll out Monday is still expected to be controversialespecially because of disagreements over where the $1.5 trillion is supposed to come from. The plan involves around $200 billion in federal funding over 10 years, to be taken from cuts to other programs, including $100 billion in incentives to state and local governments to stimulate spending on infrastructure such as highways, ports, and airports, reports Reuters. Democrats had sought greater federal funding and new revenue, possibly through a hike in the gas tax, though White House aides say the Trump plan is just the starting point for negotiations.

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The proposal requires cities, counties, and states to put up at least 80% of a project's cost themselves before they can get 20% federal funding, which reverses the 80-20 federal-state funding split in place for many highways, NPR reports. The federal funding to be announced Monday also includes around $50 billion toward rural infrastructure projects. Jay Timmons, president of the National Association of Manufacturers, praised the proposals, the AP reports. "When ports are clogged, trucks are delayed, power is down, water is shut off, or the internet has a lapse, modern manufacturers' ability to compete is threatened and jobs are put at risk," he said. "There is no excuse for inaction." Critics, however, said the plan needs more federal investmentand called moves to speed the approval process, including reducing environmental reviews, a "corporate giveaway." (Read more infrastructure stories.)(Newser)  Thousands of travelers booked on Southwest Airlines flights out of Chicago's Midway Airport had to change their plans after the airline found out that it didn't have enough de-icing fluidfor the second time this winter. An airline spokesperson said Southwest had "actively worked to manage" its level of glycol, which is used to de-ice aircraft, but "proactively" canceled at least 220 flights Sunday after levels ran low, USA Today reports. Midway Airport said a total of 250 flights were canceled after an icy storm, suggesting other airlines were also affected, though operations are expected to return to normal Monday, the Chicago Tribune reports. Forbes notes that the same thing happened in December, when Southwest canceled at least 90 flights from Midway due to de-icing issues. (Read more Southwest Airlines stories.)(Newser)  Jennie Willoughby wasn't surprised when President Trump implied she was lying about claims ex-husband Rob Porter abused her. Based on a Saturday tweet noting a "mere allegation" ruins the "falsely accused," Trump believes "abuse is something to be questioned and doubted" but "the truth exists whether the President accepts it or not," Willoughby writes in an essay at Time. Though she doesn't condone Trump's support for Porter, who resigned as White House staff secretary last week, "I forgive him," Willoughby continues. "Of course" White House staff defended Porter. "They valued and respected him. The truth would be dissonant to everything they believed to be true about the man they knew. The truth would be devastating. And denial is easier than devastation."

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Willoughby knows a thing or two about denial as she found herself "questioning the accuser" during the #MeToo movement. "Society as a whole doesn't acknowledge the reality of abuse" so "society is subconsciously trained to question a victim of abuse," she writes. The truth, however, is that abuse is very real. It's "scary and demoralizing and degrading. It chisels away at your self-esteem and self-worth until you are unsure whether your version of reality is valid or not." It's an important message to spread now given this "critical moment in history," Willoughby adds. "If the most powerful people in the nation do not believe my story of abuse in the face of overwhelming evidence, then what hope do others have of being heard?" Her full piece is here. (Read more Rob Porter stories.)(Newser)  An explosion and fire at an electric substation threw much of northern Puerto Rico into darkness late Sunday in a setback for the US territory's efforts to fully restore power more than five months after Hurricane Maria started the longest blackout in US history. The island's Electric Power Authority said it was optimistic power could be restored within a day, reports the AP, but the blast illustrated the challenges of restoring a power grid that was already crumbling before the Category 4 hurricane. In many cases, power workers are repairing equipment that should have been replaced but remained online due to the power authority's yearslong financial crisis. PREPA is worth roughly $4 billion, carries $9 billion in debt and has long been criticized for political patronage and inefficiency. It also struggled with frequent blackouts, including an island-wide outage in September 2016.

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It was not immediately known what caused Sunday's fire, which was quickly extinguished. Officials said the explosion knocked two other substations offline and caused a total loss of 400 megawatts worth of generation. "We are trying to restore that as quickly as possible," the company said. Heavy black smoke billowed from the substation as neighbors described seeing the sky turn orange following a loud explosion. San Juan Mayor Carmen Cruz said no injuries had been reported and that power had been restored in some areas of the city. More than 400,000 power customers remain in the dark more than five months after Hurricane Maria. Puerto Rico's governor announced last month that he plans to privatize the state-owned power company, which relies on infrastructure nearly three times older than the industry average. It would be the largest restructuring of a public entity in US history.

(Read more Puerto Rico stories.)(Newser)  Hollywood star Robert De Niro took aim at the Trump administration's stance on climate change, telling a packed audience in the Middle East that he was visiting from a "backward" country suffering from "temporary insanity." He said that in the country he's describing, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency suggested last week that global warming may be a good thing for humanity. "I am talking about my own country, the United States of America. We don't like to say we are a 'backward' country so let's just say we're suffering from a case of temporary insanity," he added. De Niro received applause and laughs when he said the US "will eventually cure itself by voting our dangerous leader" out of office, the AP reports. He spoke Sunday at Dubai's World Government Summit. (Read more Robert De Niro stories.)(Newser)  If you're wondering why there's a hashtag to boycott a new children's movie, ask parents of kids with allergies. The BBC reports on the pushback against Sony Pictures' Peter Rabbit, which includes a scene in which Mr. McGregor, who's allergic to blackberries, gets the fruit hurled at him by the title character and his bunny pals. One berry ends up in McGregor's mouth, causing him to go into anaphylactic shock and forcing the use of his EpiPen. "I'm pretty sure Beatrix Potter will be turning in her grave about now," one mom of a child with allergies tells the New York Times. She notes allergies are already often dismissed or ignored by people who aren't affected by them, and that "to have them trivialized on the big screen by such a popular character is immensely disappointing."

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Other parents and advocacy groups agree the film, with James Corden voicing Peter, is partaking in "allergy bullying," per Fortune. Kenneth Mendez, president of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, penned an open letter to the filmmakers and Sony, noting that "we strongly urge you to refrain from the type of programming that mocks food allergies in the future." Mendez also points out that Sony has portrayed food allergies as a "punchline" before in children's films, citing one of the Smurfs movies and Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs as two examples. Per the AP, Sony has issued a joint statement with the filmmakers apologizing for the scene, admitting the flick shouldn't have "made light" of the character's allergy, "even in a cartoonish, slapstick way." (New guidelines are out on giving babies peanuts.)(Newser)  A tense 36 hours for a missing Alabama woman's family has ended in relief. ABC News and WBMA report that volunteers on foot and even a drone were sent out over the weekend to search for 45-year-old Lisa Holman after her smashed-up car was discovered sometime after 9pm Friday on the side of a road in Pelham, just outside Birmingham. Her teenagers had called their dad, who then called police, when she never made it home that night, per WAAY. Holman's shoes, phone, and pocketbook were all inside the car, but Holman herself was nowhere to be seen. A crew of firefighters, police dogs, and local law enforcement spent all day Saturday looking for Holman, but they still hadn't found any sign of her by nightfall. Then, Sunday morning, came the news everyone wanted to hear.

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Holman had been found alive, though with some broken bones, and was "alert" and "able to walk out of the woods" on her own, per a Facebook post by Pelham's police department. A volunteer gave her his shoes to replace the ones Holman had left in her car, per WVTM. Holman's family released a statement later Sunday, saying the time she'd been missing had been "very emotional," and that "her ability to withstand these injuries, the weather conditions, and the length of time in the woods is a testament to her resiliency." Amy Miller, who helped look for Holman and says she's her best friend, says Holman told her she'd lost her way in the dark after the crash and eventually hunkered down underneath a rock overhang, WIAT reports. Authorities are still putting together the rest of Holman's ordeal. (Read more missing person stories.)(Newser)  You'll find the name of Roger Gilbert listed as volunteer fire chief in the small Pennsylvania town of Spartansburg. In fact, the 43-year-old just got re-elected. The problem, though, is that you'll also find his name listed in the state's Megan's Law database for sex offenders, reports the Corry Journal. Back in 2001, Gilbert was convicted of "involuntary deviate sexual intercourse" with a 4-year-old girl and served a 5- to 10-year prison sentence. Gilbert says he's a changed man"that was 20 years ago"but his re-election is drawing plenty of attention after the story was picked up nationally by the AP.

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Spartansburg is about 40 miles southeast of Erie, notes PhillyVoice, which points out that Gilbert was elected twice to his post as chief by his fellow firefighters, not the public. (Only about 300 people live in the town.) "The firemen have always elected their own officers and that's how it's always been done," Mayor Ann Louise Wagner tells the Journal. "We don't question their decisions." (Gilbert might see a change in his passport the next time he renews.)(Newser)  Another flu-related death, this one with a painful what-if: A Texas elementary school teacher who died last Sunday due to complications of the flu had been prescribed flu medication, but her husband tells the Weatherford Democrat she didn't pick it up after learning she'd incur a $116 copay. The Wall Street Journal charts the rapid six-day decline of Heather Holland, a second-grade teacher at Ikard Elementary School who developed a scratchy throat on Monday, Jan. 29, but decided to go to work on Tuesday. After turning feverish that night, she went to the doctor Wednesday and tested positive for influenza B. Husband Frank Holland says she was prescribed a generic form of Tamiflu but opted not to buy it after arriving at the pharmacy and learning of the price.

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Frank says they could afford it. "It's principle with her. She's a very frugal person in general." After learning she was trying Nyquil instead, he bought the medicine for her Thursday morning. The outlook began to improve. Her fever was declining, and Frank decided to take a planned business trip to Kansas Friday. He departed, and the 38-year-old's fever jolted higher and diarrhea set in. She was admitted to the ICU at a Fort Worth hospital as her high-school sweetheart raced home to be with her. After doctors learned she had sepsis she was put on dialysis Saturday night. She died Sunday, leaving behind two kids, ages 7 and 10. A GoFundMe campaign started for the family is collecting funds but also notes "what Heather would have said...Say a prayer, protect your family how you can, and donate a book to a library." (Read more flu stories.)(Newser)  The National Portrait Gallery has unveiled portraits of former President Obama and Michelle Obama. Barack Obama's portrait was painted by Kehinde Wiley, an artist best known for his vibrant, large-scale paintings of African-Americans. For Michelle Obama's portrait, the gallery commissioned Baltimore-based artist Amy Sherald, first-prize winner of the gallery's 2016 Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition, the AP notes. The paintings were unveiled Monday at the gallery, which is part of the Smithsonian group of museums. The gallery has a complete collection of presidential portraits. "How about that? That's pretty sharp," the former president said as he caught a first glimpse of the Yale-trained Wiley's portrait, per CNN.

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Obama also joked he tried to "negotiate" with Wiley to give him smaller ears and not too much gray hair. As for Michelle Obama, she said she was "a little overwhelmed" at seeing Sherald's likeness of her and thought about the impact it would have on "girls and girls of color." "They will see an image of someone who looks like them hanging on the walls of this great American institution," she said. "And I know the kind of impact that will have on their lives because I was one of those girls." No. 44 was even more effusive. "Amy, I want to thank you for so spectacularly capturing the grace and beauty and intelligence and charm and hotness of the woman I love," he said.

(Read more Barack Obama stories.)(Newser)  A top newspaper in Malaysia has produced a guide on spotting homosexuals on the street. It may sound nuts, but the Guardian has some of the tips from the daily Sinar Harian. Gay men, it seems, are partial to facial hair and branded clothing, "like to wear tight clothes to show off their six-pack abs," and frequent the gym not only to work out but to watch other men work out. Lesbians, on the other hand, are always hugging each other, holding hands, and saying bad things about men. Got it? As you might expect, the list is being ridiculed far and wide and might be funnier if not for one thing: Homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia and punishable by an old colonial law of up to 20 years in prison, notes the Washington Post.

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Advocates are worried the list may set off anti-gay violence in a nation known for it. Last year, for instance, an 18-year-old student was burned to death by classmates who suspected him of being gay. If you really want to educate society then explain to them the traits of a pedophile, a molester, a murderer, a kidnapper, people who actually endanger the lives of others," says one of the nation's biggest social media stars, Arwind Kumar, in a YouTube video. "How the hell does a gay person endanger your life? (Also last year, Disney had to pull Beauty and the Beast from Malaysia over a "gay moment.")Sorry!

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Send letters to the editor by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707), by fax (907-452-7917) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Writers are limited to one letter every two weeks (14 days.) All letters must contain no more than 350 words and include a full name (no abbreviation), daytime and evening phone numbers and physical address. (If no phone, then provide a mailing address or email address.) The Daily News-Miner reserves the right to edit or reject letters without consulting the writer.New Delhi:

India's financial capital Mumbai has been ranked 12th in a list of wealthiest global cities compiled by New World Wealth. With a total wealth of

USD 950 billion, India's financial capital was named the richest city in India. With a total wealth of USD 3 trillion, New York is the richest city on the global list.

A report by New World Wealth says Mumbai, which is the economic hub of India, is the 12th wealthiest city, followed by Toronto with a total wealth of USD 944 billion, Frankfurt (14th, USD 912 billion) and Paris (15th, USD 860 billion).

Total wealth refers to the private wealth held by all the individuals living in each city. It includes all their assets (property, cash, equities, business interests) less any liabilities. However, government funds are excluded from the figures.

Mumbai also interestingly features among the top 10 cities in terms of billionaire population.

The city is home to 28 billionaires, individuals with USD 1 billion or more in net assets, the report said.

"Total wealth held in the city amounts to USD 950 billion. Mumbai is the economic hub of India. It is also home to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the 12th largest stock exchange in the world. Major industries in the city include financial services, real estate and media," the report said about Mumbai, also known as the Maximum city.

For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

In a first, The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) led a consortium to acquire Abu Dhabi National Oil Cos (ADNOC) 10 per cent stake.

The 10 per cent stake consists of a 40-year offshore oil concession. With this deal the UAE hopes to expand its market in the South Asian region.

The agreement between ONGC Videsh led consortium and ADNOC gives the former, the drilling rights over 40 year period at a participation fee of 2.2 billion dirhams ($600 million)

The other members of the ONGC Videsh led consortium was Indian Oil Corporation and Bharat Petroleum Resources Ltd. The high level event was attended by Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The agreement will come into effect from March 9, said ADNOC.

The current production rate of ADNOC is 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) which is expected to reach 1 million bpd by 2021.

For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Muscat :

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met with industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business.

Modi, who arrived here yesterday from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, also met Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman, Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said.

The two leaders discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Four countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership, Kumar said.

Later, the prime minister will visit the historic Shiva Temple of Muscat. The temple is one of the oldest of the region and is located in the Matrah area near Sultan's Palace.

The temple was constructed 125 years back by Merchant Community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

The temple has three deitiesShri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

He will also visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before heading back to Delhi.

For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Jewargi (Karnataka):

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday accused BJP of creating friction between communities and 'igniting" fire as he ramped up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his campaign in poll-bound Karnataka.

"Wherever there is a BJP government like the ones in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, violence prevails," he alleged at a public rally here on the third day of his first leg of campaign in north Karnataka.

He said, "At some places, they kill Dalits, minorities, and tribals. They pit one section of society against another and ignite fire. In Haryana they pitted Jats against non-Jats. And they come here and talk about violence," he said.

"Peace prevails here Modiji. Go and see what is happening in UP, Haryana, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. There is violence which is being spread. So don't talk about violence and corruption when you visit Karnataka. People of Karnataka are intelligent and they know everything," he said.

Gandhi asserted that Congress believed in taking everyone together and moving forward.

The Congress president, who addressed public and roadside meetings in Raichur and Kalaburagi districts, continued his attack on Modi, saying he should speak about allegations of corruption against BJP president Amit Shah's son.

Gandhi, on a four-day 'Janashirvad Yatra', said Modi should look "left and right" before talking of corruption.

"If you want to talk about corruption, talk a bit about Amit Shahs son's corruption. How he made Rs 80 crore out of Rs 50,000 in three months? You should also be telling this to the country," he said.

Addressing people who had gathered to welcome him before he continued his campaign in the state's Hyderabad-Karnataka region, Gandhi also lashed out at BJP leaders in the state.

"Modiji you talk of corruption. Modiji, if you have some time after talking of the past, look at your left and right sides...."

"On one side is (BS) Yeddyurappa who has been to jail. On the other side, as many as four (former) ministers who went to jail... and behind, 11 leaders who had to resign on charges of corruption," he said.

Gandhi said Modi had "failed" to create jobs and address farmer distress.

"Modiji, people of this country gave you work, farmers had given you work, youth had told you that our competition is with China. China provides job to 50,000 youths in 24 hours. Modiji has failed," he said.

Travelling in a customised bus along with other leaders from the state, Gandhi was greeted by party workers and people who lined up on both sides of the road at various places.

Speaking to reporters at Shahpur in Yadgir district, Gandhi, who is facing the charge of practising "soft Hindutva", defended his visits to temples and religious places, asserting that he would continue it.

"I like going to temples. Wherever I get religious place I go there. I feel good and feel happy, and I will continue (to go)," he said.

Gandhi was responding to BJP state President BS Yeddyurappa's "Election Hindu" jibe at him.

The Hyderabad-Karnataka region comprises districts of Bidar, Yadgir, Raichur, Koppal, Ballari and Kalaburagi which were part of the Nizam-ruled Hyderabad state till 1948.

Gandhi will wind up his tour on Tuesday, interacting with professionals and business community and a visit to "Anubhava Mantapa' at Basavakalyan in Bidar, akin to Parliament, started by 12th-century social reformer Basavanna.New Delhi:

A Delhi University student on Monday filed a police complaint at Vasant Vihar Police station alleging a man of molesting her on board a crowded DTC bus.

The victim has also uploaded a video of the incident showing the man sitting next to her and apparently masturbating.

I was travelling in crowded bus when a man sitting next to me masturbated. I was left stunned but then I made a video of the incident & posted it on social media to make people aware of the incident, the DU student said.

People don't even consider something like this a form of sexual harassment, she added sharing her traumatic experience.

After recording the video, the girl deboarded the bus in South Delhi and went to the Vasant Vihar Police station to lodge an FIR.

So far, the accused has not been identified in the case but the police suspect the perpetrator could be a local and trying to nab him.

Also Read | Minor Dalit girl torched in Madhya Pradesh for resisting rape

"Had seen her shocking tweet and assisted her in getting FIR filed. That act caught on video was too sick. Worst is no one in bus came to her aid. Had called SHO Vasant Vihar to ensure imm arrest. This man is a danger to society and shud b given strong punishment!," Swati Jai Hind, Chairperson, Delhi Commission for Women said.

This is not the first time when such a nauseating and abominable incident have taken place. Earlier in March last year, a Delhi University student was masturbated on by an unidentified man during a college fest.

The Delhi govt, when elected to power, made big claims of installing CCTV cameras and deploying a marshal in all the DTC buses for womens safety.

However, the incident put a big question mark on the Kejriwal govt and its claims of providing safety and security to the women in DTC buses.New Delhi:

A Kolkata couple on Monday lodged a complaint with the Cyber Cell of Kolkata Police after it allegedly received death threats.

The couple was reportedly listed on social media as a case of "love jihad."

The list was posted by Hindutva Varta on Facebook in January which was later deleted.

"Yeh ek suchi hai un hindu ladkiyon ke Facebook profile ki jo love jihad ka shikar ho chuki hain yah ho rahi hain? har....sher se aagrah hai, inme jo ladke hain, unki khoj ke shikaar karein (This is a list of Facebook profiles of Hindu women who are victims of love jihad? We call upon all... tigers to find out the men listed in these profiles and hunt them)," the post read.

Hindutva Varta also shared links to profiles of inter-faith couples from across the country in the post and asked Hindu girls to be "wary of men" from other religions.

Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) Praveen Tripathi said, "We are investigating the case. A possible source involved in the matter has been identified."New Delhi:

Participating in a show like Bigg Boss changes things for the contestants who gain a considerable fan following and work from the industry. Many contestants from the eleventh season of Bigg Boss 11 are making their mark in the industry be it Arshi Khan, Bandagi Kalra, Sapna Choudhary or Luv Tyagi.

Sapna Chaudhary is quite popular in the northern belt of India because of her amazing dance moves. The Haryanavi dancer is now known all over the country all thanks to her stint in the Salman Khanas show.

Sapna who impressed the television viewers with her alatkes and jhatkesa in BB11 was all set to give a scintillating performance in Kanpur on Sunday. Fans gathered at Brijendra Swaroop Park to get a glimpse of the talented dancer.

However, things didnat go down as planned after some people created ruckus at the venue. As per news agency ANI, the people who couldnat enter the venue clashed with the security personnel employed.

If this was not enough, these people also vandalised the property at the place where the show was organised.

Kanpur: Ruckus at dancer Sapna Choudhary's show held at Brijendra Swaroop Park, after some people who could not enter the venue clashed with security personnel & vandalized property. (11.02.2018) pic.twitter.com/qZErWHqjPs a ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 12, 2018

According to media reports, Sapna even tried to appeal her fans to maintain peace but to no avail. The Rohtak born dancer had to leave the show in midway after the crowd went crazy.

Sapna Chaudhary was one of the most loved contestants on Bigg Boss 11 and fans were left disappointed when she was evicted from the show. The dancing diva performed on her hit song 'Teri Aakhan Daa Yoh Kaja'l along with Hina Khan during one of the weekend episodes.ANew Delhi:

Bajrang Dal has pasted posters in Narendra Modis home-state Gujarat warning Hindu girls not to celebrate Valentine Day. The warning posters have been pasted in front of all girls college, co-ed colleege, malls and public areas.

The posters stuck by the saffron group is divided in two parts. One part with yellow background shows a girls one half of the face open and other half covered in burkha. With love jihad written in both English and Hindi. The poster also reads, Hindu larkiya savdhan (Hindu girls beware).

The other part of the poster shows a crossed heart and appeals its readers say no to Valentines Day.

The poster claims it was issued by Bajrang Dal and Karnavati. Ahmedabad city president of Bajrang Dal confirmed the media that the posters were pasted by them.

Also read: Indian-origin ISIS's 'New Jihadi John'; US designates British citizen as global citizen

We are giving two messages by this poster. We are asking girls to be careful of Muslim boys who trap them in love and later force them to convert to Islam, said Mehta.

He added that he and his group is not against love but are against the public display of obscenity in name of Valentines Day.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Mumbai:

A false fire warning in the cockpit of Air Indias Ahmedabad-bound flight tonight forced its pilot to abort take off at the last minute at the city airport.

Air India is making necessary arrangements for an alternative aircraft to fly passengers to their destination, an Air India spokesperson said.

The flight was carrying 182 passengers on board when its pilot aborted take-off after ground staff noticed a fire in the left side engine of the aircraft.

However, it turned out to be a false warning, according to the Air India spokesperson.

The spokesperson said the pilot aborted the take off due to a false warning in the cockpit indicating fire.

The pilot immediately switched off both the engines and the Airbus A321 aircraft was towed to chokes, a source at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (CSIA) said.

Air India flight AI 091, operating on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route, had rejected a take off, the source said.

At 21.26 PM, the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) manager who was following the aircraft reported a visible fire in port engine and the pilot-in-command (PIC) switched off both the engines, according to the source.

The aircraft was further towed to chokes on at 2145 hours, the source said, adding that at 2150 hrs the PIC reported that take-off was rejected due to a stall warning.

A stall warning is an electronic or mechanical device that sounds an audible warning as the stall speed is approached.

However, no fire media was used by the ARFF team, the source added.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

A BJP leader from Madhya Pradesh on Monday has appealed to the farmers to chant Hanuman Chalisa everyday to protect their crops from natural calamity.

In his appeal to the farmers, the former BJP lawmaker Ramesh Saxena from Madhya Pradeshs Sehore said, Scientists have stated that weather will be bad for the next one week. They have predicted that there will be hailstorms and heavy rainfall.

Saxena said, I appeal to the farmers to chant Hanuman Chalisa for an hour for the next five hours.

The lawmaker asserted that by chanting Hanuman Chalisa continuously for the next five days the calamity will be prevented.

I appeal to the villagers that please chant Hanuman Chalisa everyday for one hour for five days, added Saxena.

Also read | Padmaavat row: Fringe group vandalise PVR Acropolis Mall of Ahmedabad, torch vehicles; Karni Sena denies involvement



The MeT department has forecasted hail storms accompanied by thunderstorms in Northern India due to western disturbance.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Army Chief General Bipin Rawat are all set to visit the Sunjwan Army Camp in Jammu on Monday. Defence Minister Sitharaman will first visit the army hospital in Satwari, and then the Sunjwan army camp.

Meanwhile, on Monday morning, an encounter broke out in a CRPF Camp in Karan Nagar district of Srinagar between two militants and security forces.

One CRPF personnel was seriously injured in the attack on the security base, while search operations for the two militants were on. However, the CRPF personnel succumbed to his injuries.

On Monday morning, Sitharaman held a high-level security review meeting to discuss the situation in the state. The meeting, which was attended by three service chiefs, defence secretary, and other top officials, was held at the Army headquarter in South Block.

General Bipin Rawat, who was in Jammu to review the anti-terror operations on Sunday, briefed the gathering on the incident and how the incident happened. Rawat also briefed the Defence Minister on the status of projects being undertaken to upgrade the security of the military bases.

Also Read| Srinagar CRPF Camp Attack LIVE Updates: 1 jawan killed, LeT claims responsibilty

Meanwhile, security forces killed three terrorists holed up in the Sunjwan Army Camp. The Islamic terrorist militant organisation, Lashkar-e-Taiba, took full responsibility of the attack, which killed six people including five Army personnel and one civilian.

On Saturday, terrorists started firing at 36 Brigade camp of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in Sunjwan. An official said, The terrorists entered the family accommodation complex after which quick response teams cordoned off the area and isolated the terrorists, who [were] holed up in a few houses [inside the camp].

On Sunday, the Indian Army launched a clearing operation and fired mortar shells at the vacated residential quarters.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Congress Party leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has stirred a fresh controversy by stating that Pakistan has accepted the policy of continuous dialogue but New Delhi has not during a program in Karachi at a time terrorists sponsored by across the border attack a army camp in Jammu in which 6 army personnel were killed and at least 10 suffered bullet injuries.

Aiyar during the program called Love Thy Neighbour: India-Pakistan Relations on Sunday said, There is only one way of resolving India-Pakistan issue and that is by an uninterrupted and uninterruptible dialogue.

Aiyar further went on saying that Islamabad has accepted the policy of continuous dialogue but New Delhi has not.

The Congress leader also added, Pakistan has improved drastically in its approach towards its neighbours but India has changed but very marginally.

The Congress leader went on to compare himself as Sisyphus and said, I can push for dialogue like Greek legend rolled an immense boulder up a hill.

I love Pakistan, because I love India. Love thy neighbour as thyself, the Congress leader added.

Also read: Indiscipline, irrelevant remarks cost Congress Gujarat election, accepts CWC



Aiyar also stated that the major issue between the two countries are Kashmir and India directed terrorism.

He further suggested that India and Pakistan should go back to the framework that was formulated during former President General (retd) Pervez Musharrafs tenure.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Kashmir:

Hours after a CRPF trooper was killed in a foiled attempt by terrorist to enter the paramilitary forces Srinagar camp, militants killed a civilian in Jammu and Kashmirs Beerwah on Monday evening.

Jammu and Kashmir Police said, A civilian was killed in a shootout at Beerwahs Charanga. A search operation has been launched to nab the suspected militants involved in the attack.

In another development, two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed in an road accident in Sopore district.

We have recovered the bodies and sent them for postmorterm. We are trying to identify the two killed in the accident, said a senior police officer posted in Baramulla.

Earlier in the day, CRPF troopers thwarted a major terrorist attack on the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) camp in Srinagars Karan Nagar. One jawan was killed in the gunfight with the terrorists.

According to police, two militants armed with AK-47 tried to enter the CRPF camp with the motive to cause maximum damage to the force.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa's portrait was unveiled in the Tamil Nadu Assembly amid strong opposition from AIADMKs rivals DMK and Congress.

Jayalalithas portrait was unveiled by Speaker P Dhanapal in presence of Chief Minister E Palaniswami and deputy CM O Panneerselvam and placed at a distance from the portraits of former CMs and Tamil Nadu icons, including MG Ramachandran.

The Opposition DMK and Congress boycotted the event with the former moving to the Madras High Court for the removal of the portrait of a leader, who was involved in corruption.

DMKs MK Stalin terming Monday as black day said, This move has brought down the dignity and sanctity of the House. Despite opposition from DMK and other parties, Speaker has gone ahead and allowed this to happen. This is unacceptable.

The Tamil Nadu government, meanwhile, defended its move to unveil Jayalalithaas portrait, highlighting her landmark initiatives, including specific steps for womens empowerment.

Hailing Jayalalithaa for her achievements, Cooperation Minister Sellur K Raju pointed out measures like the cradle baby scheme to protect girl children and starting the first all-women police stations in India.

He said Jayalalithaa had implemented welfare measures for people that were dreamt of by leaders like Periyar (rationalist leader E V Ramasamy) and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C N Annadurai.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Security forces thwarted a major attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar in the wee hours of Monday. However, one CRPF personnel was killed during the encounterA that broke out between the militants and security forces.

The sentry, posted at the CRPF's 23 battalion headquarters, saw two suspected militants approaching the camp and opened fire. The two terrorists who were armed with AK-47 rifles fled from the spot. The incident took place at 4.30 am.

As per last reports coming in the incident, security forces had located and cornered the two militants, and were exchanging fire with them.

Earlier, Ravideep Shahi, the Inspector General of CRPF, told India Today, "Our alert sentry foiled an attempt by two militants... we have called our quick reaction team and a team from Jammu Kashmir police are on task near the camp periphery. No fire came in from the militant side, who disappeared (sic) into dark alleys."

Here are the live updates on CRPF camp attack in Srinagar:

# Lashkar-e-Taiba claims responsibility of Sunjwan Army Camp and Karan Nagar terror attacks

#A 2 militants tried to barge into CRPF headquarters in the morning. They couldn't enter the headquarters but sneak in a building close to the HQ. 5 families have been evacuated. Operation is on: IG CRPF Ravideep Sahai on encounter at CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar

#A Jammu & Kashmir: One CRPF personnel who was seriously injured in gunfight during ongoing encounter at CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar succumbs to injuries.

#A Jammu & Kashmir: One CRPF personnel seriously injured in the gunfight during ongoing encounter at CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar

# Encounter breaks out in Srinagar CRPF camp between militants and security forces.A

Jammu & Kashmir: Encounter underway at CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar. 23 Bn CRPF engaged in firing; Visuals deferred by unspecified time pic.twitter.com/mHFf3UNHyf a ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

Meanwhile, the operation at Sunjuwan Military Station entered Day 3 with the army launching aA combing operation on Sunday night. So far, five army personnel and one civilian have lost their lives.A Around 12 people including personnel and civilians have been injured in the attack,A ANIA reported.

The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly witnessed strong protests from BJP MLCs against NC MLA Akbar Lone in Jammu over his 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogan in the state assembly on Sunday. The BJP MLCs have demanded an FIR against Lone.



J&K: BJP MLCs protest against NC MLA Akbar Lone in Jammu over his 'Pakistan zindabad' slogan in state assembly, demand FIR against Lone. pic.twitter.com/MvfMkFEl5N a ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Bhopal:

A 13-year-old girl was set on fire allegedly by a teenage on Saturday evening after she resisted his sexual assault advances in Madhya Pradeshs Rajgarh district, police said on Monday.

The victim has suffered critical burn injuries and is undergoing medical treatment at a government hospital in Rajgarh district, around 115 kilometers from MP capital Bhopal.

According to police, the victim is in critical condition. She has suffered 50 per cent burn injuries in the attack, said a police officer of Rajgarh district.

Rajgarh Police said that they have detained the boy.

Police said, the boy sneaked into her house when her family members were out for work. The girl when resisted the boys advances and attacked her, he threw inflammable liquid on her and set her on fire, said a police officer.

Also read | Bihar: Six youths rape class VII student in Bhojpur



Madhya Pradesh Police have lodged an FIR under relevant IPC sections and POSCO Act.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Jammu:

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday called for talks between India and Pakistan to stop bleeding shedding in the state.

In a tweet she also stated that she will be dubbed as anti-national by TV channels for making the appeal.

The Jammu and Kashmir chief minister in her verified Twitter account wrote, Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed.:

She further wrote, I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter.

The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option, added Mufti.

Reacting to Muftis call for dialogue, BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav said, Talks can only happen when terrorism stops.

Also read | Srinagar CRPF Camp Attack LIVE Updates: 1 jawan killed, LeT claims responsibilty



The Mufits appeal for dialogue comes amid a spurt in terrorist attacks on security forces deployed in the state and unending border clashes between armies of India and Pakistan.

On Saturday, five Indian Army soldiers and a civilian was killed in a terrorist attack on Sunjwan Army camp. At least 10 people were injured in the attack.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

In a horrific incident of brutality, a minor Dalit girl in Madhya Pradeshas Rajgarh was allegedly torched after she resisted rape.

According to the initial reports, the perpetrator was trying to rape the victim but she fought back and resisted.

aHe was trying to rape me but I resisted. Then he threw kerosene on me and lit the fire,a said the victim narrating the horror she faced.

The accused is on the run after the incident and could not be arrested so far, however, the police have registered a case and further investigating the matter.

aA case has been registered and teams are looking for the accused,a police said.

Rajgarh (Madhya Pradesh): Minor Dalit girl torched, allegedly after she resisted rape, victim says, 'he threw kerosene on me & then lit fire.' Police say, 'case has been registered and teams are looking for the accused.' (11.02.2018) pic.twitter.com/rXITl1Zg3L a ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Fearing surgical strikes by India after a terrorist attack at Sunjuwan Army Camp by militants, Pakistan foreign ministry on Monday has warned the Indian government to refrain from any cross-border attacks.

The Indian government has blamed Pakistan-based terrorist groups responsible for the Saturday attack on Sunjuwan army camp in which 5 soldiers and at least 10 people have suffered serious injuries.

Pakistan Foreign Affairs Ministry in a statement said, Indian officials are making irresponsible statements and levelling unfounded allegations, even before any proper investigation in any incident has been initiated.

The Pakistan Ministry further added that the allegations are being leveled by India to distract worlds attention from human rights violation in Jammu and Kashmir.

We hope that the international community would urge India to refrain from any misadventure across the Line of Control and the Working Boundary, said Pakistan Foreign Ministry.

Also read | 5 soldiers killed, one civilian dead in Sunjuwan Army Camp attack, 4 terrorists gunned down; Piyush Goyal slams Congress over politics



Jammu and Kashmir police, SP Vaid, a few hours after the Sunjuwan attack had said that they had communications intercepts pointing to the attack was planned and executed by Jaish-e-Mohammed and Hizbul Mujahideen Terrorists.

In 2016, elite commandos of the Indian Army had carried out surgical attacks on terror launch pads being operated from Pakistan occupied Kashmir after 19 soldiers were killed in an attack on an Indian army base at Uri in Kashmir.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday attacked Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh or RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and asked to apologise for "insulting" Indian Army by questioning its strength and comparing it with Sangh workers.

During his speech in Bihars Muzaffarpur on Sunday, Mohan Bhagwat had said, Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability.

Terming RSS chiefs remark an insult to every Indian, Rahul Gandhi asked Bhagwat to apologise for disrespecting martyrs and Army.

Also Read | RSS can prepare soldiers within 3 days, Army takes months, says Mohan Bhagwat

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it, Rahul Gandhi tweeted.

Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS, the tweet said.

Sensing the trouble, RSSs chief spokesperson Dr.Manmohan Vaidya came out with a clarification and said Bhagwats statement was misrepresented.

This was no way a comparison between the Indian army and the Sangh swayamsevaks but it was a comparison between general society and swayamsevaks, Vaidya said.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

The Supreme Court on Monday put a stay on the FIR against Major Aditya in Shopian firing case and issued a notice to the Centre and J&K govt. The Apex court sought a response from both the Centre and state govt on the notice served in two weeks.

Supreme Court also directed that state administration that no coercive action be taken against Major Aditya.

The Supreme Court was hearing the plea filed by Major Aditya Kumars father, seeking quashing of the FIR registered against his son in connection with the killing of three civilians in Jammu and Kashmirs Shopian district.

The state police filed an FIR under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the Major and his Army unit of 10 Garhwal Rifles.

On January 27, three civilians were killed after Army personnel fired at a stone-pelting mob of protesters in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. Over 200 protestors pelted stones at the Army convoy following which the army personnel shot in the air in their self-defence.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Noted spiritual leader and founder of the Art of Living Foundation Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has expressed surprise over the expulsion of Maulana Salman Husaini Nadwi from the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB).

Maulana Nadwi had met Sri Sri in connection with the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute where he extended support for the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. He also hinted at an out of the court settlement by saying, The courts do not join peoples heart as the verdict is always in favour of one and against the other.

Following this statement, Maulana Nadwi was removed from the board of members of AIMPLB.

After his meeting with Maulana Nadwi Sri Sri had said, I appreciate Maulana Salman Husaini Nadwis support for our proposal. His firm stance and courage in this regard are laudable. Crores of people across both communities stand with us for a peaceful resolution.

The case is being heard by a special bench of the Supreme Court and the next hearing is scheduled for March 14.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Philippines' President Rodrigo Duterte has yet again courted huge controversy as he asked Philippine soldiers to shoot female rebels in their vaginas.

Bring that. Tell the soldiers. Theres a new order coming from mayor. We wont kill you. We will just shoot your vagina, so that  If there is no vagina, it would be useless, Duterte said in Cebuano last week during a gathering with former rebels at the Presidential Palace.

This has caused a huge uproar in international political circles and the remarks have been widely criticised as violent and strongly prejudiced against women.

Duterte had in July 2017 made a rape joke focusing on Miss Universe participants.

You can mess with, maybe a Miss Universe. Maybe I will even congratulate you for having the balls to rape somebody when you know you are going to die, he had said after the Miss Universe 2016 pageant was held on January 30, 2017, at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Duterte had also told Muslim fighters in Marawi that they could rape up to three women without fear of punishment. Just do your job. I will take care of the rest. I will go to jail for you. If you happen to rape three, I will own up to it. If you marry four, you will get clobbered, he said.

In the run-up to the presidential election, Duterte had impudently said that he, as mayor of Davao, "should have been first" to rape an Australian missionary in jail in 1989. "I was angry because she was raped, that's one thing. But she was so beautiful, the mayor should have been first. What a waste," he said.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.paraklisi

VersesAs the Lord grasped the hands of Meletios,"I surrender my soul into Your hands" he said.On the twelfth Meletios entered the all-nourishing earth.This holy Father, who was from Meletine of Armenia, was a blameless man, just, reverent, sincere, and most gentle.St. Meletios of Antioch (Feast Day - February 12)Because he was exceedingly virtuous and possessed pure love in Christ, he was consecrated Bishop of Sebaste in 357. He was later banished from his throne by the Arians and departed for Beroea of Syria (this is the present-day Aleppo). After the Arian bishop of Antioch had been deposed, the Orthodox and the Arians each strove to have a man of like mind with themselves become the next Archbishop of Antioch. Meletios was highly esteemed by all, and since the Arians believed him to share their own opinion, they had him raised to the throne of Antioch in 360.As soon as Meletios entered Antioch and consecrated Archbishop, every Christian, holding him in such high regard, began inviting him into their home, thinking that just by his entrance he would sanctify it. Having taken the helm of the Church of Antioch, however, he began preaching the Son's consubstantiality with the Father. Then a test was issued by the emperor, as the historian Theodoret writes:'Now the emperor had charged both Meletios and the rest who were able to speak to expound to the multitude the text "The Lord formed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old" (Proverbs 8:22, Septuagint), and he ordered skilled writers to take down on the spot what each man said, with the idea that in this manner their instruction would be more exact. First of all George of Laodicea gave vent to his foul heresy. After him Acacius of Caesarea propounded a doctrine of compromise far removed indeed from the blasphemy of the enemy, but not preserving the apostolic doctrine pure and undefiled. Then up rose the great Meletios and exhibited the unbending line of the canon of the faith, for using the truth as a carpenter does his rule he avoided excess and defect. Then the multitude broke into loud applause and besought him to give them a short summary of his teaching. Accordingly after showing three fingers, he withdrew two, left one, and uttered the memorable sentence, "In thought they are three but we speak as to one."'Shortly after, he was banished by the Arian Emperor Constantius, son of Saint Constantine the Great. He did not even last a month as Archbishop in Antioch.After the passage of time, he was recalled to his throne, but was banished again the third time by Valens to Armenia near Cappadocia. There he communicated with Basil the Great. He returned again to Antioch in 379 and summoned a Synod in which the Nicene Faith was affirmed. It was Saint Meletios who ordained Saint John Chrysostom reader and deacon in Antioch in 381. Meletios was then summoned to Constantinople where he presided over the Second Ecumenical Synod in 381 (which was convoked against Macedonius, Patriarch of Constantinople, the enemy of the Holy Spirit), being held in great honor as a zealot of the faith and a venerable elder hierarch.Some time before, when the Emperor Gratian had made the Spanish General Theodosius commander-in-chief of his armies in the war against the barbarians, Theodosius had a dream in which he saw Meletios, whom he had never met, putting upon him the imperial robe and crown. Because of Theodosius's victories, Gratian made him Emperor of the East in Valens's stead in 379. When, as Emperor, Saint Theodosius the Great convoked the Second Ecumenical Synod in Constantinople two years later, he forbade that anyone should tell him who Meletios was; and as soon as he saw him, he recognized him, ran to him with joy, embraced him before all the other bishops, and told him of his dream.While at the Synod, Saint Meletios fell ill and reposed a short while after. Saint Gregory of Nyssa, among others, gave a moving oration at his funeral; bewailing the loss of him whom all loved as a father, he said, "Where is that sweet serenity of his eyes? Where that bright smile upon his lips? Where that kind right hand, with fingers outstretched to accompany the benediction of the mouth?" And he lamented, "Our Elijah has been caught up, and no Elisha is left behind in his place." The holy relics of Saint Meletios were returned to Antioch and were buried beside Saint Babylas the Martyr (Sept. 4), in the Church dedicated to the Martyr which Meletios, in his zeal for the Martyr's glory, had helped build with his own hands.Apolytikion in the Third ToneThou didst shine on the Church with thy heavenly knowledge, O venerable Hierarch Meletios, wise in the law; thou didst preach the equal honour of the Persons of the Trinity, and disperse the assembly of heretics. Entreat Christ our God to grant us His great mercy.Kontakion in the Second ToneAll-blessed Meletios, adorned with Orthodoxy in thy life, thou wast a protector and guardian of the Church. Thy doctrine shines like a fiery beacon even to the ends of the world, O most radiant light of the Church.The seats at the corners of the carriages on Japanese trains and subways are designated as "priority seats" for the benefit of elderly, physically disabled, and pregnant passengers.

But though passengers outside those demographics who are sitting in the priority seats are asked to give up their spot should someone in greater of need come along, theyare not forbidden from sitting in them, nor is their any penalty for non-compliance, as the system generally relies on polite courtesy between passengers.

However, such civility broke down in a startling way on the morning of February 7 on the Kanjo Line in Osaka. 62-year-old Motokazu Koizumi spotted a 34-year-old man (whose name has been withheld), who was on his way to work, sitting in a priority seat. This wasnat the first time Koizumi had crossed paths with the man, either, as on a previous day theyad gotten into verbal altercation on the train while Koizumi was on his way home from working night shift.

Koizumi says aI was angry that he was sitting in the priority seat [on February 7],a so when the train reached Taisho Station at roughly 6:50 a.m. and the younger man stood up to exit the train, Koizumi stabbed him multiple times in the stomach with a fruit knife, inflicting serious, though thankfully non-fatal, wounds. Koizumi then fled the scene, though security footage showed him making his escape following the attack. No statement has been made in regards to whether or not the victim, in spite of his young age, had some sort of not-visually-apparent condition that prompted him to sit down in a priority seat.A group of citizens in Tokyo's Hachioji held a fresh Coming-of-Age ceremony on Monday for victims of the sudden shutdown about a month ago of kimono seller and rental firm Harenohi that attracted wide public attention and media coverage.

The event, in which participants wore kimono, was planned by Maki Nishimuro of Kimono no Nishimuro, a kimono firm in Hachioji, and supported by the Hachioji municipal government. A total of some 2.54 million yen was donated from across Japan for the event, according to the organizing committee for the ceremony.

Harenohi, based in Yokohama, the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture, south of Tokyo, suddenly closed its operations on Jan. 8, this year's Coming-of-Age Day, forcing many client young women to give up wearing kimono at cerebration ceremonies. The firm is in now in the process of bankruptcy liquidation.

Ten new adults, and their relatives and friends attended Monday's ceremony, held at Olympus Hall Hachioji. Volunteer workers helped the new adults wear kimono prepared by the organizers, who wanted to make victims of Harenohi's bankruptcy smile.

After the event, a 20-year-old female university student, one of the participants, said, "I'm very grateful to the organizers, and I enjoyed the ceremony." At the same time, the woman said that she feels angry at Harenohi.

The Japanese government is poised to put its new guidelines on the management of administrative documents into force in April, in the wake of scandals related to two private school operators.

The new guidelines were compiled in response to criticism of sloppy handling of documents associated with the heavily discounted sale of a state-owned land plot to Moritomo Gakuen, one of the two school operators, and alleged favoritism over a plan to open a new university faculty of veterinary medicine by Kake Educational Institution, headed by a friend of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

But some experts say that the new operational standards are problematic partly due to the lack of a system enabling external checks.

It has been found that the Finance Ministry had sorted documents related to the state land sale to Moritomo Gakuen into the category of documents whose storage period is less than one year. Meanwhile, the Cabinet Office and the education ministry are at odds over disclosed internal documents linked to the Kake issue.

The new guidelines require the storage of one year or longer in principle for administrative documents for which work to examine the decision-making processes and other details is expected to become necessary in the future.While the average height of Japanese adults had grown some 15 cm (nearly 6 inches) over the past century with improved nutrition and public health conditions, it has started to decline for those born in 1980 or later, recent research has shown.

A research team at the National Center for Child Health and Development in Tokyo analyzed data on some 3.15 million adults in Japan and concluded the declining trend in average height may be attributed to increases in low-birth-weight infants in the country, or those who weighed 2,500 grams (5.5 pounds) or lighter at birth.

The findings by Naho Morisaki and other researchers were published last year in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.

According to the study, the height of an average Japanese adult peaked for those born in 1978 and 1979 at 171.4 cm (5.6 feet) for men and 158.5 cm (5.2 feet) for women, while the figures for those born in 1996 stood at 170.82 cm for men and 158.31 cm for women a 0.64 cm and 0.21 cm shorter than peak levels, respectively.

The researchers found aa strong inverse correlationa between the rate of low-birth-weight infants and adult height. While the decline of the average height started among people born in 1980 or later, the number of low-birth-weight babies sharply increased since around that time.At least five people died in prefectures facing the Sea of Japan and elsewhere as heavy snowfall hit the areas Monday due to a strong winter pressure pattern, according to a Kyodo News tally.

Sea of Japan coastal areas are expected to continue to see heavy snow through Tuesday, with the Japan Meteorological Agency warning of avalanches and traffic disruption.

In Niigata Prefecture, a 90-year-old farmer was found dead in the city of Tokamachi in the morning after apparently falling into a snow-covered drain. A 62-year-old woman was also found to have drowned inside a drain in the city of Nagaoka after going out to shovel snow, according to local police.DAVENPORT, N.Y. -- Two children died early Friday when a rural Catskills house with apartments caught fire, troopers said.

Emergency responders rushed to 435-478 Dehning Road in Davenport, Delaware County at 1:46 a.m. after a fire was reported, according to a New York State Police news release.

Firefighters found a home with four apartments completely on fire with reports of two children trapped in one of the upstairs apartments, according to the Delaware County Department of Emergency Services' Facebook post.

Two children died in the fire, troopers said. The children were 1 and 3 years old, the emergency services department reported. They're names have not been released.

One adult suffered burns and was transported to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, troopers said. The adult was not named.

Firefighters with the Davenport Fire Department, the Pindars Corners Fire Department, the Hobart Fire Department and the Kortright Fire Dept put out the fire. Troopers, the Delaware County Sheriff's Office and state fire investigators responded to the scene.

Investigators are working to determine what caused the fire.150 support groups have so far sprang up for the re election of President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019, Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari, Senator Ita Enang disclosed this in Warri, Delta state during the commissioning of the Delta state office of Council for New Nigeria, in Warri.He assured people of the Niger Delta region that President Buhari would continue to give them special attention, dismissing as untrue allegations that the federal government planned to rob the Niger Delta region of oil proceeds offshore.He said the recent controversy over offshore oil after the All Progressives Congresss committee released it recommendations on restructuring were mere lies allegedly fabricated by opposition political parties to dent the image of the federal government. He assured people of the Niger delta region that they would continue to benefit from the oil offshore, stressing also that the various support groups for the re election of President Buhari would be harmonized under a common umbrella.He said the Council for New Nigeria was one of the bodies under the National Committee of Buhari Support Groups, NCPSG. Earlier In his welcome address, Delta state Chairman of Council for New Nigeria, Chief Emma Avworo said the Council for New Nigeria was formed to promote the anti graft war, stressing that there would be a better and more prosperous Nigeria under a corruption free setting. He said the body would also promote values of good governance, adding that Nigerians should support the initiative for a more virile nation. Council for New Nigeria is a body with an objective to promote good governance, anti-corruption.Corruption is a threat to development. If we eradicate corruption we will have a better Nigeria for us all, he said. Others who also spoke were Senator Abu Ibrahim, from Katsina state, Mustapha Abim of NCPSG, promising that Buhari would not dash the hopes of NigeriansA Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Festus Keyamo, has said former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former military President Ibrahim Babangid...

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Festus Keyamo, has said former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former military President Ibrahim Babangida have no solution to the problems plaguing the nation.





The lawyer, who appeared on Channels Televisions flagship political programme, Sunday Politics yesterday noted that both leaders cannot recommend a roadmap for Nigerians.





These two leaders cannot show us the roadmap  because they had opportunities in the past and bungled them.





Babangida spent N40billion on a transition programme to nowhere; eight years to nowhere.





These are people who have been involved in the past in selection process, military coups, and all of that; so they dont still believe in democracy, said Keyamo.





He pointed out that former President Obasanjo was trying to amend the constitution to go for a third term and cited a situation where bags of monies were discovered in both chambers of the national assembly.



Senator representing Borno South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Ali Ndume, has said that the people of Borno and Northeast ...

Senator representing Borno South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Ali Ndume, has said that the people of Borno and Northeast will reward President Muhammadu Buhari with massive votes come 2019.

This was for the successful negotiation that led to the release of three UNIMAID lecturers and 10 police wives abducted last year by Boko Haram at different locations in Borno.





Ndume made this known in a statement he issued weekend in Abuja.





According to him, the release of the 13 abductees had rekindled his peoples hope on the rescue of the remaining Chibok schoolgirls and other persons in Boko Haram captivity.





He said: It is with great delight that I receive the gladdening news about the release of the ten abducted women as well as the three geological scientists from the University of Maiduguri, who were abducted by Boko Haram in July last year.





This news has not only gladden our hearts but has also renewed our hope that other abducted persons, including the remaining Chibok schoolgirls who are still in captivity would, in due course, regain their freedom by the grace of God.





I, on behalf of the good people of southern Borno senatorial district and indeed the government and people of Borno state in general, commend all the actors that partook in the latest negotiated release of our women and lecturers.





I specifically commend the leadership of the President Muhammadu Buhari for keeping faith with his promise of ensuring that all abducted persons, especially the Chibok schoolgirls, will be released.





I also thank the ICRC and our military personnel as well as other security agencies who had contributed in one way or the other to see that this great feat is achieved.



The ranks of the governorship aspirants in Ekiti State swelled on Sunday as a Church General Overseer, Pastor Tunde Afe, joined the race. ...

The ranks of the governorship aspirants in Ekiti State swelled on Sunday as a Church General Overseer, Pastor Tunde Afe, joined the race.

Afe, the founder of House of Faith Christian Centre in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, said he was desirous of fielding a Muslim as a deputy governorship candidate to send a signal that Nigerians were one in spirit.





Unveiling his ambition at the churchs premises, Pastor Afe stated that he would neither use the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nor the All Progressives Congress(APC) as a platform, saying the two parties had greatly disappointed Nigerians.





The cleric said time had come for all Nigerians, particularly those that mean well for the country to rise up and take leadership positions, to prevent total collapse of the system due to activities of corrupt politicians.





The prophet stated that he had begun a process of consultations with critical stakeholders on the choice of political party with the right ideology to contest, assuring that the party with a well fitted ideology will be adopted and such will be made public soon.





He said: I didnt receive any special direction before taking this step, because every Nigerian knew that the country is in dire need of good leadership and as a man of God who believes that things must be done properly, I have no reason to sit back while things degenerate.





Look at what is happening in Nigeria today, I mean killings everywhere and the best way to address this is by using Ekiti as a launch pad for good governance in Nigeria.





My church has been into role modeling for the youths and also organizing leadership trainings for them to be good leaders in future. We are tapping into all these to make Ekiti great.





All those that had ruled Ekiti did their best, but I think I can do better because I wont take whatever that doesnt belong to me as a benefit in government because I fear God.





Let me say this, if all the governors and those occupying leadership positions take what are legitimate due to them alone as benefits, Nigeria will be far better than this and that is xactly what I am going to use my aspiration to teach.





On his decision to choose a muslim as Deputy, Pastor Afe stated that since both Muslims and Christians are Nigerians with legitimate rights, nothing stops me from picking my deputy among the Muslims.



Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, weekend insisted that no part of the state would be given for the establishment of cattle colony.This came as Biafra Independent Movement, BIM, warned South East Governors against providing any land for the proposed Cattle Colony in any state of South East, saying it would amount to putting Ndigbo under herdsmen siege.In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Emmanuel Uzor, the Governor initiated measures to maintain peace between farmers and herdsmen across the state by engaging traditional rulers and leaders of Miyetti Allah in the area for the purposes of sustaining peace among the two groups.Uzor said the governor while addressing traditional rulers, presidents of town union and other stakeholders at the Akanu Ibiam International Conference Centre, Abakaliki used the occasion to reiterate his administrations resolve to sustain peace in all parts of the state, which he believed was a panacea to achieving lasting development for the people of the state.Part of the statement read: The traditional rulers are not just custodians of culture and tradition but also part of peace building. They must ensure peace in their localities by first of all identifying the people living in their communities especially the herdsmen. No herdsman is allowed to graze their cattle on our lands and in an event of that, the herdsmen pay the double value of crops damaged and on repeat of such, the herdsmen will be forced to leave the community.The cows are dear to the herdsmen same way the crops are dear to the farmers, most especially our belief in sanctity of human life which has been wasted on some areas in the country.To ensure security and safety of our people and herdsmen who have lived peacefully with us all these years without problem and to ensure there is no infiltration of killer herdsmen from neighbouring states and countries, traditional rulers are to collate data on herdsmen operating in their communities across the state for easy identification and maintenance of peace. The data should include herdsmens names, location and contact phone numbers of their leaders.Traditional rulers should hold constant meetings with the herdsmen so that they can identify those from Niger Republic and other areas that foment trouble.Governor Umahi is a member of the Presidential Committee headed by the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo to reconcile and ensure peace between the farmers and herdsmen across the country and he is doing everything within the armbit of the law to ensure peace in his own state as charity begins at home.Meanwhile, BIM has vowed to resist any attempt by any South-East governor to provide land for cattle colony.BIM made its position known in a statement titled, Biafra Independent Movement Says No to Cattle Colony in South-East and Any Biafra Land, issued by its Anambra North Coordinator, Chief Vincent Iloh.The group said: Providing land for the Nigerian Federal Government proposed Cattle Colony will be tantamount to putting Biafrans under herdsmen siege and perpetual enslavement of Biafra people of Igbo land. The herdsmen have been terrorising the people of South East and other states of Nigeria, when they have no place called their own in such states. One will then imagine what they will do when lands are provided for them for establishing Cattle Colony. Only God will save the people of the state where they will be occupying.Giving them Cattle Colony will amount to giving them take off point for unleashing more terror on Nigerians. We are waiting for the South East governor that will provide land for the proposed cattle colony; we will make such governor realise that he did not elect himself. We will resist such a governor with our lives. We will not keep quiet, while the lives of our people are put into jeopardy. No South East Governor will have his way in providing such land for killing our people and putting them in perpetual fear over their lives.Governor Rochas Okorocha, said, yesterday that it would be wrong for anybody to link the Fulanis to the killings by herdsmen in the country.Okorocha defended the Fulanis, when members of Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim led by its Supreme Head, the Prelate His Eminence Solomon Alao, visited him at the Government House, Owerri, as stated in a release by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Sam Onwuemeodo.On whether the Imo State Government has created a cattle colony, proposed by the Federal Government, Okorocha, said there was a cattle market in the state and not a cattle colony, stating that the state government encouraged indigenes to go into cattle business because it was lucrative and that government would continue to support them with provision of ranches.The governor also said it was absolutely wrong to associate the Fulanis with the killer-herdsmen, explaining that the herdsmen who kill should be treated as criminals, and should not be used to stigmatise the Fulanis, whose men and women had largely contributed to nation-building.The fact remains that no one in this country has the right to take another persons life in whatever disguise. For herdsmen to kill anybody is not right and that must be condemned, he stated.A former Governor of Kano State and Senator representing Kano Central Senatorial District, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, may dump the All Progress...

A former Governor of Kano State and Senator representing Kano Central Senatorial District, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, may dump the All Progressives Congress (APC).





He is said to be waiting on the outcome of peace moves initiated last week by President Muhammadu Buhari, to resolve intra-party crisis in some states.





The reconciliation committee is headed by former Lagos state governor and APC national leader, Bola Tinubu.





Recall that Kwankwaso last Thursday in Anambra declared his interest to contest the 2019 election.





In a meeting with leadership of the Kwankwaso Movement, and the Hausa community in the state, the lawmaker listed incessant killings and economic meltdown as what informed his decision.





A source in his camp gave some of the reasons that made Kwankwaso to conclude that now is the best time to leave the APC.





He alleged that the presidency had displayed partiality in the crisis rocking the Kano APC chapter and that the politician no longer feels the party needs him.





Let me give you two instances. The APC went to invite a former PDP Senator Basheer Lado; he joined last month. Lado, represented Kano Central from 2011 to 2015, but Kwankwaso defeated him during the last election.





What they have done now is to offer him automatic ticket to return to the Senate in 2019. We have eyes and ears everywhere and already have the details of the deal they agreed before Lado left PDP.





What this development means is that even if Kwankwaso decides go back to the National Assembly, the presidency, the APC and Kano government wont allow him because they now have a candidate.









Another instance is the rally they forced Kwankwaso to shelve. When Lado declared for APC, they shut down the Sani Abacha stadium in Kano on January 27. The police and others didnt asking him to postpone his rally.





Lado was received by Deputy National Chairman, Segun Oni. President Buhari sent a letter and said he would have attended but that the date coincides with AU event he traveled for. Governors, many office holders, top party members were there.





But when a former governor and sitting Senator wanted to meet his people in his home state, they said there will be violence. This is a man in the same party with the President of Nigeria and the incumbent Governor.





The writing is clear enough. All his friends and followers have been telling him for a long time to leave APC. But as someone who believes in exploring all options, he keeps say telling us to calm down. He gets more uncomfortable by the day and I think he will make up his mind soon.





The source further confirmed that the PDP hierarchy has been inviting Kwankwaso to return to the fold since last year.





It would be recalled that Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Walid Jibrin, last month, while addressing a PDP youth group, Ward-To-Ward during a courtesy visit, hinted that the party would soon receive some former chieftains.





We are also expecting a big return of some of our former governors, our National Assembly members and very renowned party followers.





We are therefore calling on the Senate President Bukola Saraki, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and all our former legislators who have left this party to come back quickly.





On whether Kwankwaso has fixed another date for his Kano trip, our source said said that he may use the rescheduled rally to announce his exit from the APC.





Kwankwaso, himself, had confirmed that he would hold an impressive homecoming rally soon.





Speaking on his cancelled trip, days after he met with vice president, Yemi Osinbajo, he said: The retreat of a ram does not mean cowardice. I only heeded the call of some respected personalities in Kano and Abuja to suspend the visit.





Save for the time I was in Kano on condolence visit when the governors mother died, I have not been in Kano for almost three years.





Police have taken over Kano just to deny a citizen his fundamental rights. I am surprised that Kano is militaralized under democratic dispensation; Kano appears like a war zone today.





I do not fear anybody. Ive been a minister of defence; and as minister, the army, the air force and navy personnel addressed me as sir.





In a chat with Dailypost on Monday, a close aide of Kwankwaso said his principal remains in the ruling party.



The Ogun State Police Command has arrested the General Overseer of Gods Favour Ministry, Iba, Lagos State, Daniel Onwugbufor, for alleg...

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested the General Overseer of Gods Favour Ministry, Iba, Lagos State, Daniel Onwugbufor, for alleged car snatching.The pastor was arrested on Thursday, February 1, 2018, along with one Israel Animashaun, by men of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad.The state Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, said their arrests followed a series of car snatching reports which the command had been trying to unravel.He said police efforts paid off when one of the snatched cars, a Lexus RX 330 Jeep, was tracked to the pastors residence at Iba.Oyeyemi explained that the pastors arrest led to the apprehension of Animashaun, an active member of a three-man gang which specialised in snatching exotic cars at gunpoint.He said Animashaun confessed that his gang snatched the Lexus Jeep at gunpoint at Ajah, Lagos, and took it to the pastor, who used to help them in selling such items.The suspect also reportedly confessed that the pastor paid him N350,000 for the car and he (pastor) had used it for two weeks before transferring it to another accomplice in Onitsha, Anambra State.Oyeyemi said, The pastor, who first denied knowing Animashaun to be an armed robber, later confessed when confronted by the said Animashaun. He blamed his action on the devil.The National Assembly Technical Committee on Tax Reforms has assured of harmonious working relationship with the Presidential Initiative on the Ease of Doing Business.This, it said, is in its determination to enthrone a tax system that would improve the overall wellbeing of Nigerians and diversify the nations economy.A member of the committee who doubles as Senior Special Assistant to the Senate President, Kingsley Amaku, disclosed these at a technical session of the panel in Abuja.A statement by Kanayo Nwajei, Communications Adviser at the National Institute for Legislative Studies (NILS), stated that the technical committee was set up by Senate President Bukola Saraki to address public concerns on the current tax system and the need to diversify the nations economy by widening the tax base.According to the statement, Amaku further disclosed that the Technical Committee is working assiduously to submit its report for legislative consideration and ensure that the citizens get the best out of tax reforms.The National Assembly has passed several laws that have helped Nigeria to move up in the World Bank Ease of Doing Business ranking. The Senate and House of Representatives have been driving the process of doing business in Nigeria easier by reforming some of the extant laws that affect businesses in a way that inhibit investment in the country and make Nigeria uncompetitive.What we are doing now is deepening the process by looking at the past tax reforms as a way of improving the competitiveness of Nigeria as an investment destination, Amaku said.The Technical Committee is chaired by the Director-General NILS, Ladi Hamalai.Other members of the committee include representatives of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigerian Association of Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Budget Office of the Federation and Commissioner of Finance, Lagos State.In another development, the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) has met with officials of the Ministry of Finance, National Institute for Legislative Studies (NILS) as well as the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM) to review the budget and implementation of project activities to Results Management Frameworks (RMF).This was sequel to the two grant agreements ACBF signed with NILS and WAFEM in July 2017 to implement capacity building projects aimed at improving financial governance in Africa and West Africa in particular.The Northern elders on Saturday floated a new group the Northern Political Leaders Forum (NPLF).

The Northern elders on Saturday floated a new group the Northern Political Leaders Forum (NPLF).





The group is aimed at enabling the region take its destiny in its hand ahead of next years elections, especially the presidential poll.





The group emerged at a meeting of the Northern Elders and Stakeholders Conversation co-convened by a former national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Bello Mohammed; former Deputy Senate President Ibrahim Mantu; and Second Republic Senator, Paul Wampana.





It was gathered that the group was formed as the norths direct response to former president Olusegun Obasanjo-inspired Coalition for Nigeria Movement (CNM) and its main goal is to have a northerner rule Nigeria in 2019.





Bello Mohammed, speaking at the opening session yesterday said the group was formed after due consideration of the current political situation in the country and formation of new movement.





The elders appointed Dr. Umar Ardo as NPLFs Secretary and Commodore Isaac M Mankilik (rtd ) as Deputy Secretary.









It also raised five committees: 2019 Election Sub-Committee, Security Sub-Committee, Political Sub-Committee, Northern Unity Sub-Committee and a Restructuring of Nigeria Sub-Committee to that respect





In a statement, the group also agreed to hold a Northern Political Summit on 15th March 2018.





Former PDP chairman, Bello Mohammed speaking on new group said From what is apparent in the political arena today, it is clear that the major political operators have agreed that in the forthcoming 2019 General Elections, it is the turn of the North to produce the president.





And what we can see in the political arena is that most political operators have agreed that the political leadership of our country should be zoned to the North according to our Constitution with regards to zoning and rotation. But from what we have seen earlier, it has always been zoned to the North but the decision on what to do and who to be has never been a Northern decision.





What we observed is that the same trend is starting now. We have seen all kinds of movements coming up. If you look at what is happening now and remember what happened when it was the time of the North to produce president, President Umaru YarAdua of blessed memory was produced but was he really a Northern choice? At the end of the day, YarAdua had mishap and lost his life in the process and somebody else was also chosen, his Vice President.





We knew the struggle that went on when it was decided that the presidency should leave the North. It wasnt the northerners who decided that the Presidency should leave the North. We had to follow the bandwagon.





The same thing happened in 2015, the North voted for the northern candidate but the decision on who should be the candidate wasnt a northern decision. What we want is that this time around; with the new group let us have the opportunity to come together so that whatever is decided for the North, it is the Northern leaders who decide it and then we get support from other regions.



The International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC, has spoken on its involvement in the handover of the three lecturers of the University...

The International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC, has spoken on its involvement in the handover of the three lecturers of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) and 10 women from Boko Haram insurgents to security operatives.

Boko Haram insurgents abducted the women in June 2017 while the lecturer were taken in November, all in Borno state.





In a statement, the Red Cross said it was contacted to play the role.





ICRCs Deputy Regional Director for Africa, Patrick Youssef said, We are so pleased that these 13 people are free and will be able to see their families again.





The ICRC was not involved in any negotiations that led to the handover of the 13 people. The armed opposition handed the 13 people over to ICRC representatives who transported them to Nigerian authorities.





This action was similar to what the ICRC did in October 2016 and May 2017, when we transported the released Chibok girls to Nigerian officials.





There are many people missing or being held against their will due to the conflict. This creates untold trauma and suffering, including for families across the Lake Chad region who must live with the daily uncertainty and anguish of not knowing the fate or whereabouts of their loved ones.





We hope that these people, too, will get to return to their families soon.



A human rights advocacy group, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, has criticised the recent increase in the toll at the Lekki-Epe Expressway and Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge, describing it as unacceptable and anti-people.The group, in a statement on Sunday by its Executive Director, Adetokunbo Mumuni, called on the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, to take immediate steps to reverse the unfair and discriminatory charges.SERAP said with the toll hike, the Lagos State Government ran the risk of undermining public interest, democratic values, accountability, and opportunities for participation.It said, This latest increase in toll at the Lekki-Epe Expressway and Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge toll gates is unacceptable, as it conflicts with the goals and commitment of the Lagos State Government to provide basic public services to citizens and residents.It seems the agreement between the Lagos State Government and the Lekki Concession Company is no longer serving the needs of citizens and residents.In the face of rising poverty and economic inequalities across the country, the Lagos State government should be considering eliminating toll charges rather than allowing the Lekki Concession Company to get away with overcharging citizens and residents and prioritising profits over the public interests.Unless the situation is satisfactorily resolved in the public interests, the government runs the risk of being viewed as beholden to special interests and out of touch with the public good.Its time for Ambode to ensure and maintain a balance between the needs of the citizens and residents of Lagos State and the Lekki Concession Company.The authorities should respect and protect the right of protesters to demonstrate against the hike in toll charges and to voice their opinion.International human rights treaties ratified by Nigeria and the countrys own constitution obligate the government to safeguard the rights of freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.The hike shows how profit motive can conflict with public motive. Accountability principles require the government to ensure that the activities of the Lekki Concession Company align with the policies and activities of governance, and that the company is not allowed to exploit its monopoly position to charge excessive rates.President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday met with security chiefs at the presidential villa in Abuja.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday met with security chiefs at the presidential villa in Abuja.





At the end of the meeting which lasted three hours, no official was willing to take questions from state house correspondents.





The heads of Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Prisons Service, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, attended the meeting.





It is understood that the security situation in the country was top on the agenda.



Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen have invaded Bakin Kogi village in the Jemaa Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing four...

Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen have invaded Bakin Kogi village in the Jemaa Local Government Area of Kaduna State, killing four persons and injuring a woman.A source who spoke on condition of anonymity said the incident occurred at about 10am on Sunday when worshippers were returning from church.He said, We heard gunshots at about 10am when we were coming back from the church. The victims, four in number, went to tap palm wine. It was on their way back that they were ambushed and killed.They died instantly while a woman was severely injured. She was rushed to a hospital in Kafanchan, where she is receiving treatment at the moment.A resident, James Aboki, gave another version of the story, saying that the gunmen invaded the village, shot sporadically at anyone in sight, killed four persons on the spot and injured one while others fled into safety.Though the police in Kaduna confirmed the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mukhtar Aliyu, said he had yet to get full details.He said, I am yet to get the report from the DPO. I am waiting for him. I also heard of the incident. So many reporters called me but I have to get the full details before I can release it to you.But as of the time of filing this report, he had yet to send the reaction.Meanwhile, the Dr Fredrick Faseun faction of the Oodua Peoples Congress in Ondo State has directed its members to form themselves into vigilante groups in their respective zones to prevent attacks by herdsmen.Speaking at a meeting held at Oba-Ile in Akure North Local Government Area of the state, the leader of the Faseuns faction, Mr. Victor Egbeyemi, expressed worry over the attacks by herdsmen.He said, We should not wait until they start to kill our people before we plan to defend them. We want to reorganise ourselves to defend the interest of Yoruba people. Both the Aare Adams and Dr. Faseuns factions must work together in the interest of the people.OPC members should get prepared whether there is war or not. The Fulani kidnapped people in Ore; they attacked the wife of our member in Akure North, and people are fleeing their farms because of the activities of the herdsmen. Chief Olu Falaes farm was burnt; we should rise up to defend our territories.He however advised members not to take the law into their own hands but work with the law enforcement agencies to protect the state against invaders.In another development, two out of the four mobile policemen that were declared missing after an attack by a suspected Fulani militia group were rescued on Sunday.The policemen had been declared missing by the Benue State Police Command.The militia group reportedly attacked a joint army, police and civil defence security team in Tse Akpan near Azege Tombo Council ward in the Logo Local Government Area of Benue State on Saturday night.The state police command on Sunday confirmed that two of the missing security operatives had been rescued while the command was still searching for the other two.The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Owoseni, who confirmed the rescue of the two officers, disclosed that they were rescued after a gun duel with the attackers.The command spokesman, ASP Moses Yamu, confirmed that the attack occurred in the Logo Local Government Area of the state.Five Hackensack police officers accused of searching an apartment without a warrant during a drug raid in December 2016 have been fired, officials said.

The warrantless search on Prospect Avenue prompted the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office to drop charges against defendants in eight criminal cases.

"These five officers betrayed their oath and brought dishonor to the Hackensack Police Department and terminating them today is the only justified and reasonable action that we can take to bring this matter to a close," City Manager Ted Ehrenburg said in a statement.

The police officers have been identified as Det. Rocco Duardo, Det. Mark Gutierrez, Det. Joseph Gonzales, Sgt. Justin de la Bruyere and officer Victor Vazquez.

The five were among seven Hackensack police officers accused of illegally entering an apartment without a search warrant or probable cause.

Two of the original seven - high-ranking officers in the Hackensack Police Department - retired before a disciplinary hearing could be held.

All of the officers involved said they were conducting a narcotics investigation.

In a police report, the officers claimed they knocked on a door but there was no answer. However, surveillance video showed the officers appearing to pick locks.

An internal affairs probe showed the cops had no cause for a search.

Ehrenburg's action to fire the officers came after a recommendation last week by a hearing officer to terminate four of the officers and to suspend a fifth.

The city manager, who has final administrative authority, decided to terminate all five, finding the dismissals were in the "best interests of the city and the HPD," the statement said.

Ehrenburg said the terminations are allowable under state law.

N.J. Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal, who at the time was the county prosecutor, said the illegal search undermined the officers' credibility as law enforcement witnesses.

As a result, Grewal said he had no choice but to drop charges against 17 suspects in eight criminal cases.

At least one former officer, Rocco Duardo, has sued Ehrenburg, the police department and the prosecutor's office, claiming his legal rights have been violated.

Duardo's attorney, Charles Sciarra of Clifton, did not immediately return a call seeking comment. The other officers or their attorneys were not immediately available for comment on Monday.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.Authorities are investigating the death of a federal prison inmate found unresponsive in his cell "following an apparent altercation" at a New Jersey facility.

Salomon Hernandez-Vega, 38, was serving a 77-month sentence for an immigration violation when officials at the Federal Correctional Institution Fairton in Cumberland County, found him around 10 p.m. on Thursday.

Staff and responding EMTs attempted to revive him, but Hernandez-Vega was declared dead around 10:40 p.m., according to a press release from the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

Officials have not identified anyone else involved in the altercation. No one else was injured, according to the release.

The FBI is investigating Hernandez-Vega's death.

Hernandez-Vega was originally deported from the United States in 2000, following a robbery conviction in Cook County, Illinois, according to his federal indictment.

Several years later, he was again caught in Cook County, and was indicted on an illegal re-entry charge in 2013. He was convicted a year later.

Hernandez-Vega arrived at FCI Fairton on Nov. 6 of last year.

FCI Fairton is a medium-security facility that houses more than a thousand male offenders and is managed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The site includes a minimum-security satellite camp and a detention center.

Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattGraySJT. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us: nj.com/tips.Callahan's has never shied away from outrageous dishes, as evidenced by the Cap'n Crunch Fried Chicken Burger they just released and the stuffed truffle gouda mac n' cheese ball burger that has captivated their customers.

And the Norwood restaurant's unorthodox spins on common foods has caught people's attention outside of New Jersey.

Food Network visited the Bergen County establishment, which is most well-known for their hot dogs, filmed at the store last September for an upcoming episode centered around the restaurant's burgers and fries, and are coming back again on Tuesday to interview patrons about the spot, owner Dan DeMiglio confirmed to NJ Advance Media on Monday.

DeMiglio said the filming is part of a brand new Food Network show that focuses on innovative and imaginative food. Callahan's famous burgers, as well as its specialty desert french fries, will be highlighted.

"Last time they filmed they were here from 9am to 5pm with a big crew of 8 people," said DeMiglio, who added that he could not disclose the name of the show.

It's no coincidence the Food Network wanted to circle back to Callahan's on Feb. 13, which is Fat Tuesday. They will be getting reaction from customers splurging on Callahan's standard burger and fries options, but also burgers like the "Now and Tater," which is a caramelized onion burger with smoked whiskey ketchup, queso dip, bacon, lettuce and tomato that is then wedged between homemade tater tot buns, and their classic disco fries.

Staff writer Jeremy Schneider contributed to this report.

Joe Atmonavage may be reached at jatmonavage@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @jatmonavageNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook"An American Marriage"



By Tayari Jones

(Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill, 308 pp, $26.95)

Since I finished "An American Marriage" its relevance and beauty have been washing over me.

Usually I finish reading, write the review and start the next book. This, however, hit on such a deep level that I could not move on. Instead, I turned the pages of "National Geographic" and wrote other articles. That space in my consciousness where a book lives while I read it clung to "An American Marriage."

Tayari Jones, on the MFA faculty at Rutgers University, Newark, and author of "Silver Sparrows" beautifully weaves the repugnant racism of the judicial system into a love story.

In writing as lyrical and efficient as prose, Jones presents what happens to two men and a woman when justice is denied. We learn the childhood dreams and adult compromises of each character.

A love triangle unfolds in a teeny town in Louisiana and in Atlanta. The strikingly beautiful, educated and privileged Celestial grew up in Atlanta, the only daughter of a chemist and a teacher. Her daddy hit it rich with an invention and has supported his beloved daughter in whatever she pursed. An artist, Celestial creates in different media, specializing in handcrafted, intricate dolls.

Celestial's husband, Roy, is more country, hailing from that small town. He's focused on his goals, mainly of making money. And, he's a player with the women. Also an only child, Roy's parents are not as educated, his worldview not as sunny. As he explains: "If my childhood were a sandwich, there would be no meat hanging off the bread."

And there's Andre, the boy next door to Celestial. They were friends as babies and stayed in each other's lives; closer than siblings. The passion for her always thrummed in him. Their parents, all completely developed characters, are intrinsic.

Roy and Celestial marry. And they fight; she is modern, independent while he harbors more old-fashioned notions. The turning point happens early. While visiting his parents the couple stays at a hotel. They bicker and take a brief time out. Roy wanders out to get some ice. And their lives are never the same again.

This novel, set today in Atlanta and a tiny town in Louisiana, chronicles what happens to a young marriage when the husband is falsely accused and imprisoned.

Roy meets an older woman and helps her. Why he thought he should go into someone else's hotel room makes readers question his common sense. That, however, does not make him a felon.

The woman accuses Roy of rape. His arrest of convenience and trial of presumption are the embodiment of judicial failing.

Convicted, he's sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Never mind the lack of evidence, motive or how unlikely this scenario was. What happens to a young marriage when the husband is shipped off, hundreds of miles from their home?

Each chapter is told from one of the main character's perspectives and through letters. Jones takes readers deep into their lives.

Here, Roy writes to Celestial, reminiscing about her refusing to include "obey" in their vows. If the minister "didn't back down, we would still be standing at the altar, on the outskirts of matrimony."

Eighteen months of marriage is not a lot to withstand hard time. Celestial tries. She makes the long drive, she checks in on his folks, though Roy's mother could never be described as welcoming.

Through it all, Andre hovers. He always held Celestial's secrets and he kept one of his own closest -- that he loves her. In prison, Roy's cellmate, Ghetto Yoda, plays a vital role in his life. Meanwhile Celestial must get on with hers.

Occasionally she finds fleeting tranquility under a hickory tree that separates her house from Andre's. Celestial writes to Roy: "Even when I'm happy, there is something in between and whatever good news comes my way. It's like eating butterscotch still sealed in the wrapper."

Can she unwrap the candy? She knows Roy is innocent. Everyone in this story knows an arrest of convenience when they see one. Yet what is she supposed to do?

Eventually, justice triumphs because Celestial's father had the money to ensure it. When Roy surprises Celestial, the first time in five years they're together without guards, her response is, "There should be a word, I thought, for this experience when you're surprised but at the same time the moment feels completely inevitable."

And there should be a word for this feeling when you're delighted to make room for fictional characters to live with you for a while.JERSEY CITY -- Firefighters helped evacuate a woman in a wheelchair while battling a fire in the Heights on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

One firefighter was also injured while extinguishing the blaze at 143 Palisade Ave., city spokeswoman Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione said.

The fire was reported just before 1 p.m. When officers arrived, flames were visible inside two windows on the top floor of the three-story home, Wallace-Scalcione said.

Firefighters evacuated an elderly woman in a wheelchair from the neighboring building, she said.

The American Red Cross is assisting three people displaced from the fire.

Officials say the injured firefighter suffered a broken finger and will remain off-duty.

Caitlin Mota may be reached at cmota@jjournal.com. Follow her on Twitter @caitlin_mota. Find The Jersey Journal on Facebook.UNION CITY -- A former city man was sentenced to 12 years in state prison for blackmailing underage girls into posing nude and engaging in sexual conduct while recording them on the internet, according to the Office of the Attorney General.

Daniel Derringer III, 29, a resident of Lake Worth, Florida who formerly lived in Union City, was sentenced by Hudson County Superior Court Judge Patrick J. Arre on Friday after pleading guilty to multiple counts of child pornography charges, law enforcement officials said.

Three of the victims were 15 at the time of the offenses, while one was 14 and another 16, authorities said. He will be required to register as a sex offender under Megan's Law and will be subject to parole supervision for life.

"By threatening to expose multiple underage girls to disgrace and embarrassment on the internet, Derringer not only sexually exploited his victims, but also subjected them to incalculable emotional harm," said Attorney General Gurbir Grewal.

Law enforcement agents were able to track Derringer down after one of the girls, residing in Minnesota, reported to local police that she had been coerced into engaging in sexual conduct on a webcam by a person who contacted her online through a social networking site, claiming to be another girl of the same age, authorities said.

The investigation revealed that Derringer convinced the victim to take off her top and expose her breasts in front of her webcam while he recorded the act.

He then got on his own webcam, revealing that he had been lying about his identity, and told her that if she didn't do as he told her, he would post the video on the internet.

He then ordered the girl to disrobe and demanded she touch herself, authorities said.

The victim used her cell phone to take a picture of Derringer on the computer screen, and local authorities were able to trace the communications to his home in Union City. He was arrested by the Union City Police three days later when he returned from a trip out of state.

He was charged with two counts of manufacturing child pornography, 2nd degree; one count of distribution of child pornography, 2nd degree; and one count of debauching the morals of a child, 3rd degree.

"Were it not for the courage of the Minnesota victim and the diligence of our law enforcement team, he might still be stalking young girls instead of serving this lengthy prison sentence," Grewal said.

Forensic examination of computer equipment owned by Derringer revealed numerous videos of incidents similar to that which the Minnesota girl reported to police.

Detectives working with other law enforcement agencies across the country were able to identify four additional victims in Washington State, Florida, Indiana and Ohio who were subsequently interviewed.The Republican deputy mayor of ex-Gov. Chris Christie's hometown is apologizing for a Facebook post comparing undocumented immigrants to raccoons in a basement and lauding President Trump as the exterminator.

Mendham Township Deputy Mayor Rick Blood, who is also the public works director in Roxbury, said he did not write the eight-paragraph screed but copied it from someone else, whom he declined to identify, before posting it to his Facebook page on Sunday morning.

Versions of the post have circulated among Trump supporters for more than two years and mirror remarks in April 2016 by Carl Paladino, who co-chaired Trump's campaign in New York.

Blood, contacted Monday, said he removed it Sunday night after receiving complaints and posted an apology.

"My position is that immigration needs to be fixed," said Blood, adding that he was trying to explain why Trump's supporters, such as himself, support the president.

"We need them at all levels of society -- from farm workers to technology people. We need to do this is an orderly fashion," Blood said of immigrants.

The lone Democrat on the Mendham Township Committee, Amalia Duarte, was not accepting of Blood's explanation and denounced his "divisive, dehumanizing rhetoric" on Monday.

"It's un-excusable to publish that post, whether or not it's cut and pasted ... that compares immigrants to raccoons in the basement," said Duarte, whose parents immigrated from the Dominican Republic.

Blood was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Mendham Township Committee in December, one month after losing a race for a open seat to Duarte -- the first time in memory that a Democrat was elected in the Republican-dominated municipality in Morris County.

In January, he was named deputy mayor of Mendham Township, whose 6,000 residents include Christie.

Blood, in his followup post, offered an apology and said his intent "was to illustrate, however poorly, one of the reasons our President was elected.

In an interview, Blood said he does not believe undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as young children should be deported, though Trump terminated the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in September and Congress failed to reach an agreement in the budget deal reached Friday.

"They did everything except pass through the maternity ward," Blood said.

Blood said his grandparents immigrated from Ireland and arrived via Ellis Island.

Duarte, further addressing his post, said, "What makes this country great is the diversity of our nation."

"This fallacy that people have always come through here by proper channels is incorrect. It's incredibly disappointing that our deputy mayor doesn't get it," Duarte said.

Blood is serving a one-year term on the committee.

"I'll be running again this spring, if I survive this mess," Blood said.

Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @RobJenningsNJ. Find NJ.com on FacebookFifty-five high school seniors from New Jersey were busted over the weekend for drinking at a home in Vermont rented by parents as part of a "rite of passage," Vermont State Police said.

The teens, whose hometowns weren't disclosed, had a "vast quantity of alcohol" as well as marijuana when troopers arrived at a home on West Hill Road in Jamaica, Vermont at about 12:35 a.m. Sunday, police said.

Sgt. Ryan Wood says no adults were present. He was told the teens were on winter break from school, and that about 17 of them, along with their parents, had rented the large home as a "rite of passage."

Troopers collected the alcohol, supervised the teens as they destroyed it, called their parents and issued them paperwork for juvenile court diversion programs.

Parents were called to the scene to take custody of the juveniles.

State Police were originally called to the home to investigate a separate vandalism complaint.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

The Associated Press contributed to this reportSheppard Bus Service's Millville yard seen late last year.

Lori M. Nichols | For NJ.com

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By Joe Brandt | For NJ.com

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It happens about once every two weeks during the school year.

A student, drowsy from getting up in the early morning hours and standing on the bus stop in the cold, falls asleep on the way to school and wakes up hours later in an unfamiliar parking lot, surrounded by yellow buses.

A mother, already at work for the day, gets a message from the district asking why her child  the one she watched get on the bus  isnt in elementary school.

A driver, preparing to start an afternoon route on a hot day, finds a child on the bus parked in front of his home since the morning.

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Though school bus drivers in New Jersey are required by law to check the bus for students before exiting, it keeps happening. Students keep being left behind. Ten short steps  a walk to the back of the bus by the driver or the aide, that has been required by law since 2009  could have prevented more than 60 students from being forgotten about on school buses since 2014, according to an NJ Advance Media review of documents filed with the New Jersey Department of Education.

And despite zero-tolerance policies for drivers, hefty fines against bus companies and even the latest in child-check technology, there appears to be no end to a problem with a simple solution.

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'Legislating common sense'

Fred Madden hoped a law might change things.

The Democratic state senator, who represents parts of Gloucester and Camden counties, is a former state trooper. His law-and-order demeanor borders on brusque when he talks about an addition to the School Bus Safety Act that he and Senate President Steve Sweeney sponsored. It was passed in 2009.

The addition mandates that drivers check the bus for stray  and often sleeping  students before and after each trip. If a child is found to have been left on the bus, the drivers license will be suspended for six months. A second offense is grounds for their drivers license being permanently revoked.

I felt like I was legislating common sense, Madden said in an interview with NJ Advance Media. How hard is it to just get up and go to the back of the bus?

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It keeps happening

The start of a new school year can be hard on anyone involved. New routines, new faces, new schedules. For the students in Paterson, this past September was a particularly rough month. In the span of less than 30 days, four students were left behind on their school buses, according to the reports filed with the Department of Education.

One fell asleep and was found at the US Student bus depot.

One was found only after the principal insisted the bus driver go back to check.

Another was found when the driver was already on his next route.

And another time, students noticed their friend from the bus never made it inside.

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Paterson school officials declined a request for an interview with NJ Advance Media, and instead referred to a statement issued in September.

This is unacceptable and I am not having this on my watch, Acting Superintendent Eileen Shafer said in the statement. We cannot jeopardize the safety of our children due to an adults neglect; and I will be perfectly clear today when I meet with all bus companies  any future incidents like this and the company will be fired.

Shafer said the district later fined the two bus companies responsible, US Student and A-1 Elegant, $1000 each and A-1 Elegant fired the aide and driver on the route in question.

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Students on buses contracted by the Essex Regional Educational Services Commission, which oversees a few districts in the county, were left behind more than any other district, showing up in the reports five times in 2015 and four times in 2016.

Sheppard Bus Services in Millville, which services 40 school districts, had five incidents, more than any other company in the state. And Atlantic County, sparsely populated in comparison to those in North Jersey, had nine incidents in the past three years, second only to Essex County.

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Piera Gravenor, superintendent of the Delsea Regional School District in Gloucester County, said she cant continue to employ a person responsible for leaving a student behind. One student was left on a Delsea bus in 2014. The 1,800-student district provides its own busing and transports students from all grade levels, K-12.

How can I look a parent in the face and say, were giving it another shot? she said.

Delsea drivers are also constantly reminded to do a child check.

Were dealing with human beings and sometimes, people forget things, she said, but she added that were always trying to stress that its the drivers responsibility to check every time that they get off the bus.

You cant just say, oh I forgot, Gravenor added. Its one of the most important things you do in the day besides getting the kids to their destination safely.

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Consequences

At some bus companies, one student left behind is enough for immediate termination, a punishment on top of the six-month license suspension mandated in the law.

Thats zero tolerance for us, said Kate Walden, a spokeswoman for Durham Bus Company.

Reminders to complete a child check are unavoidable at Durham.

They talk about it in staff meetings. There are reminders on their time-punch machine when they clock in and out. And theres a placard hanging in the front of the bus that must be turned when the driver parks in the companys lot. If its not flipped, its a sign the bus may need to be inspected for a missing kid.

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A reminder to check for children who may be left behind on the bus at Sheppard Bus Service in Millville, Monday, Dec. 11, 2017.

Lori M. Nichols | For NJ.com

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Despite these preventative measures, state records show Durham was responsible for two instances of children being left on a school bus since January 2014  once in Lakewood in October 2015, and another in Middletown in September 2016.

At Sheppard Bus Service in Millville, similar steps have been taken with signs in the conference room, stickers on buses and steep penalties  termination  for a first offense. Bonus pay is also tied to whether or not drivers check the bus before and after each run.

But the company has taken it a step further with technology.

Every day, Sheppard drivers use an electronic check system to inspect the tires, windows, battery and other spots. On top of that, the electronic check tells bus dispatchers that there were no children left on the bus too.

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Lori M. Nichols | For NJ.com

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Sheppard and Durham buses are also equipped with an audio reminder  a beeping noise when the bus is turned off thats similar to, but much louder and more grating, than the sound your car might make if you left your keys in the ignition. It must be turned off by walking to the back of the bus and pressing a button.

With all those things in place, thats why we would have to say ... theres no excuse for a child being left behind, Walden said.

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Is tech the answer?

The technology is from a company called Zonar, founded and headquartered in Seattle, Washington. They produce a slew of devices for vehicles, including one that lets construction machinery operators clock in and out at their vehicle.

The Zonar child check system that Durham and Sheppard use has 11 electronic checkpoints around the bus, Walden said. Before and after every single run, the driver is required to touch each checkpoint with a device to indicate that the check was done. Afterward, the driver puts the device in a receiver and the report is transmitted to the dispatcher.

We can check to see where theyve done it, said Jeanie Tucker, a bus driver for 38 years who does employee training at Sheppard. We have a system that we can get into and check everything.

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Jeanie Tucker, safety coordinator/driver trainer at Sheppard Bus Service in Millville, demonstrates the Zonar Z-Pass child safety system in a school bus, Monday, Dec. 11, 2017. Students swipe their ID card each time they enter and exit the bus.

Lori M. Nichols | For NJ.com

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With the technology now, theres no not checking the bus, because they lose the bonus, it ties in with their pay, and we can check it, Sheppards human resources manager Manny Cabegin said. With past methods, unfortunately, we did see that it was not 100 percent. And we did not want to have a student left on the bus. So thats why we switched to the electronic child check.

In a September 2016 incident with a Durham bus in Middletown, the driver was found to have completed the electronic check, but a student was still left on the bus. The driver was immediately suspended from the route and later terminated, Walden said.

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Ben Hohmann, a spokesman for Zonar, said the technology is used in many states, but so far is only required in California, where all school buses must have it in time for the 2018-19 school year. While Zonar does force the driver to make that walk to the back, he acknowledged that there is no way to verify whether the check was adequately done  only that the device was touched to the checkpoint.

Hohmann said the company is launching ZPass, where students will have cards that they scan at the front of the bus when they get on and off. Bus dispatchers would be able to check if every student got on or off any bus in their fleet. ZPass is being used in the Vineland School District, Cabegin said.

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Its not clear how many busing districts in the state use Zonar technology currently; Hohmann did not respond to follow-up questions about how many districts in New Jersey the company serves.

Madden was impressed by the technology but said it shouldnt be needed if bus drivers simply performed their job.

Technology or not, all they need to do is go to the back of the bus, he said.

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MORE FROM NJ.COM

5-year-old girl put on wrong school bus in error, walks home alone

Driver left autistic child alone on school bus for 4 hours, cops say

Clayton child sleeping on school bus found by mail carrier

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Joe Brandt can be reached at jbrandt@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JBrandt_NJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tipsA retired Fort Lee police officer was charged with attempted murder for shooting a man in the chest during a confrontation in front of his Toms River home.

Toms River Police responded to a Kettle Creek Road home on Feb. 8 at about 10 p.m. and found Robert Oleynick, 34, of Toms River with a gunshot wound to the chest.

Richard Gato

He was airlifted to Jersey Shore Medical Center where he remains in stable condition, the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office said in a statement Monday.

An investigation found that the shooting occurred earlier in the evening at the Margaret Court home of Richard Gato, 70, the retired officer.

Investigators found Oleynick showed up at Gato's house looking for an acquaintance -- but he was at the wrong address, said Al Della Fave, spokesman for the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.

"Gato and Oleynick did not know each other at all," Della Fave said.

It's unclear if Gato had the gun when he answered the door, Della Fave said. He declined to disclose the type of gun.

A security camera near the front door of the Gato home captured the altercation that resulted in Gato shooting Oleynick in the left side of the chest, authorities said.

No one else was involved in the incident, Della Fave said.

The delay in disclosing the incident was due to investigators seeking a warrant to download and view the video footage from Gato's security camera, Della Fave said.

"That gave us a clear view of the disagreement," Della Fave said, leading to the charges.

Concerning residents protecting themselves on their property, Della Fave said it's not permitted, "if there is no specific threat to you."

Oleynick remains hospitalized in stable condition. "We're hoping to interview him now that he's recovering," Della Fave said.

Gato was arrested Friday night, the day after the incident, and charged with attempted murder and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. He's being held at the Ocean County Jail pending a first appearance on Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.

In October 1994, Gato retired as a detective from the Fort Lee Police Department after 20 years on the force, under the Early Retirement Incentive Bill, Fort Lee Police Chief Keith M. Bendul said in a written statement.

He declined to comment further.

After retiring from police work, Gato moved to Ocean County and became a Realtor. In his professional profile he describes himself as a top producer and member of the "Million Dollar Sales & Marketing Club" at Pecora Realtors in Toms River.

Reached by phone, the firm's owner, William Pecora, declined to comment.

Editor's Note: The story has been updated with additional information from Ocean County authorities.

Allison Pries may be reached at apries@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AllisonPries. Find NJ.com on Facebook.By Lena Smith

By signing an executive order to join a regional carbon program, Gov. Phil Murphy wants to send a clear message: The Chris Christie anti-environmental era is over.

But this plan could actually undermine his more important campaign pledge of delivering a 100 percent clean energy system for New Jersey.

In 2011, Chris Christie withdrew our state from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a market-based program that aims to lower carbon emissions while raising money for clean energy. Getting New Jersey back into RGGI has been a priority of Democratic lawmakers ever since. While that might sound like a no-brainer, the truth is that RGGI has failed to deliver the promised benefits.

There have been reductions in greenhouse gas emissions across the board, but there is little to no evidence that RGGI is responsible for driving, or even contributing to, those broader trends. The urgency of the climate threat, and the devastation already being felt around the globe, requires a much stronger approach

The urgency of the climate threat, and the devastation already being felt around the globe, requires a much stronger approach.

RGGI is a nine state "cap and trade" program that sets an emissions limit (the cap) on large power plants. Energy companies either find ways to reduce emissions to stay under the cap, or they purchase pollution allowances which can be bought and sold (the "trade" part). The problem is that this cap has been set too high, and the pollution permits are too cheap. This means the program hasn't forced polluters to change their ways; they can avoid reducing carbon pollution by simply paying a small fee, or buying credits and hanging onto them for future use.

Supporters of RGGI point to emissions reductions as proof that the program is succeeding. But carbon emissions were declining before RGGI took effect, and there's no evidence it has anything to do with the reductions we've seen since. What's worse, there is emerging research showing that "successful" cap-and-trade schemes in states like California wind up increasing emissions in low-income and minority communities that are already dealing with rampant air pollution. Strong environmental policies do not perpetuate environmental injustice, but that is one effect of these cap-and-trade plans.

Failing to reduce emissions isn't the only problem with RGGI. When New Jersey was participating in the program, some of the money earmarked for clean energy was -- surprise, surprise -- diverted to fill budget gaps in Trenton. And RGGI excludes methane emissions, which have been climbing because of gas fracking in states like Pennsylvania. Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas, and excluding it from RGGI gives a big boost to fracking.

We have already wasted too much time on timid plans that try to use market schemes like RGGI to nudge corporate polluters in the right direction. These policies have only been successful at granting environmentally-friendly cover to political leaders and powerful corporations, so they can appear to be doing something about climate change.

But cap-and-trade programs have dramatically underperformed when it comes to their most important goal: Reducing the harmful emissions that are driving climate chaos.

If we want to give ourselves a fighting chance to slow down super storms and sea level rise, we need to reduce emissions -- and fast. The most effective way to do that is to advocate for tough regulations that will protect our air, water and health from corporate polluters, coupled with a bold vision to get off fossil fuels.

Assemblyman Tim Eustace has introduced a bill to get New Jersey to 100 percent clean energy by the year 2035, a bold move that legislators and New Jersey residents should get behind. And it's a golden opportunity for Murphy, who campaigned on a 100 percent clean energy pledge.

Lawmakers in Trenton are gearing up for RGGI hearings this month, and they will no doubt be patting themselves on the back if they can get New Jersey back into the program. But there is a real danger in telling ourselves that this would be a big step forward.

New Jersey can, and must, do better than an ineffective carbon trading scheme.

Lena Smith is a senior organizer and policy advocate at Food & Water Watch.

Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook.Remember when President Trump told an audience of cops to be "rough" on suspects when tossing them into "paddy wagons"?



Here's what that actually looks like in practice: A hate crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison.



The longtime police chief of Bordentown, a mostly-white suburb of Trenton, made national news after he reportedly slammed the head of a black teenager into a doorjam during a 2016 arrest - an assault driven by racial animus, the feds said.

Trump jokes, because that's what he thinks police brutality is. A joke | Editorial



The only reason Frank Nucera got caught: A good cop surreptitiously recorded his chief's racist remarks about black people, including that we should "line them all up and mow 'em down."



It's a reminder of why it's so important to protect the whistleblowers and toss the bad apples. That's even more essential now, after Trump's Justice Department announced it will no longer audit local police departments for civil rights abuses.



New Jersey's new Attorney General needs to step into this void, and look at how to better supervise police behavior. A two-year reporting project by the Asbury Park Press details the many ways that faulty, secretive investigations of bad cops put us all at risk.



Above all, it's a failure of leadership. In his final days in office, Gov. Christie vetoed a sensible bill that would have required any deaths involving police officers to be investigated by the AG's office, not a local prosecutor with close ties to police.



Senate President Stephen Sweeney just re-introduced that legislation. This is something Gov. Phil Murphy needs to fix right away.

Police chief accused of racially-motivated beating of handcuffed black teen



Lawmakers should also revive a languishing bill that would put oversight of the notoriously frat-boyish Edison police under the AG's office, and hold hearings about other gaps in oversight. For instance: In other states, an officer involved in an assault can lose his license even if he's not criminally prosecuted. Not so here.



New Jersey is one of only six states that doesn't empower a state agency to decertify police officers, the Press reports. We revoke licenses for nail salons; shouldn't the same be true of dangerous cops?



Too often, they stay under the radar because towns often prefer to minimize their liability by settling with an alleged victim - spending millions of taxpayer dollars, paid by municipal insurance pools that don't financially squeeze an individual city much at all.

The cop doesn't admit wrongdoing and stays on the job, or secures a promise from the town not to reveal anything to a new employer.



Of the 531 officers named in abuse lawsuits reviewed by the Press, at least 231 stayed on the force after this kind of settlement. Many others were allowed to resign, collectively walking away with at least $780,000 in payouts for unused sick and vacation days.



As a result, we have cops like Andrew Jaques, the subject of five internal affairs investigations in Atlantic City - one handled by his uncle - remaining on the force for a decade, even after being accused of losing his temper in traffic stops, abusing his girlfriend, bludgeoning a bicyclist and choking a restrained man unconscious. He retired on disability in August, at an annual salary of $101,620.



Or Philip Seidle, the police sergeant who shot his ex-wife to death in 2015; the Press had to sue Neptune in an effort to pry loose the 682-page, 20-year-long internal affairs file on him.



The people "most disgusted" by this are fellow cops, notes William Fitzpatrick, the acting U.S. Attorney who prosecuted Nucera. It makes their jobs much harder; much like Trump's casual trampling of community-cop relations. New Jersey owes it to its tens of thousands of good cops to fight back.

Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook.A state appellate court has ruled against environmentalists seeking to tear up New Jersey's $225 million settlement with Exxon Mobil over industrial contamination of wetlands and waterways in north Jersey.

The three-judge panel on Monday said it found no fault in Superior Court Judge Michael Hogan's decision to approve the consent agreement.

"Judge Hogan had the best opportunity to gauge the strength of the experts' estimates regarding (natural resource damages), the relative strength of the parties' litigation positions ...," Appellate Division Judge Carmen Messano wrote for the panel.

"We find no mistaken exercise of the judge's discretion in finding the consent judgment was fair, reasonable, consistent with the Spill Act's goals, and in the public interest."

Environmental groups and former Democratic state Sen. Raymond Lesniak attempted to intervene to block the settlement, outraged the former Gov. Chris Christie's administration had accepted $225 million when the state had argued in pre-settlement filings the cost of the cleanup would be $8.9 billion.

Christie's administration defended the deal, saying it is, by far, the largest environmental settlement in state history.

The state's Department of Environmental Protection also argued that Exxon had spent more than $250 million remediating Bayway and Bayonne, and the settlement doesn't change Exxon's obligation to "spend whatever amount of money is necessary to fully remediate all of its contaminated sites in accordance with DEP's regulatory standards," according to the decision.

Messano and Judges Amy O'Connor and Francis Vernoia also agreed with Hogan that Lesniak and the environmental groups -- including the New Jersey Sierra Club, Clean Water Action, Environment New Jersey and Delaware Riverkeeper Network -- did not have legal standing to intervene in the settlement.

The appeals panel sided with the environmental groups, however, who argued for a right to appeal Hogan's approval of the settlement.

The judges disagreed with Hogan's denial of the groups' right to appeal his approval of the settlement. But the panel upheld Hogan on the settlement.

"While the right of the people of (New Jersey) to stand up in their defense was held up in today's decision, setting important legal precedent for the future, the goal of protecting and restoring (New Jersey's) natural resources was lost, and that is the very definition of a travesty of justice," said Maya van Rossum, the Delaware RiverKeeper.

Lesniak said Monday he would appeal the ruling.

Despite this loss in court, Sierra Club Director Jeff Tittel said there was consolation in a constitutional amendment dedicating environmental settlement funds.

The Attorney General's Office declined to comment.

NJ Advance Media reporter S.P. Sullivan contributed to this report.

Samantha Marcus may be reached at smarcus@njadvancemedia.com . Follow her on Twitter @samanthamarcus. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday the state is creating a commission to help the tens of thousands of Puerto Ricans that have been displaced to New Jersey in the five months since Hurricane Maria battered their home island.

Murphy signed an executive order directing the panel to collaborate with state and federal agencies to expedite services for those who have been relocated and to find ways the state can provide additional aid to Puerto Rico.

"This is the time for us to step up," Murphy, a Democrat, said during a news conference at the Puertorriquenos Asociados For Community Organization in Jersey City. "It is time for us to show our humanity and our connection not just with fellow Americans, but with an island whose culture and beauty is alive and well here in New Jersey."

Murphy said more than half-a-mllion New Jerseyans are of Puerto Rican descent -- the third-largest of any state -- and about 30,000 Puerto Ricans have been displaced to the state amid the recovery.

That figure, he said, is "lowballing it." And officials said the number could continue to rise.

"Beyond our basic humanity, there is a direct imperative for New Jersey to be part of Puerto Rico's healing process," Murphy said.

Part of the goal of the 18-member, three-month commission is to "make sure we have the resources" to help those who are displaced, Murphy said.

The governor's office said the commission will examine:

* The moratorium on mortgage and reverse mortgage foreclosures on the island, which is set to expire on March 19.

* Power generation on the island.

* Resources available to students and professors who have evacuated or are unable to complete coursework -- including whether the state's colleges can host them.

* Volunteer tourism, in which New Jerseyans are encouraged to visit the island and assist with recovery organization. That might include tax credits and/or deductions for their services.

* Recruiting volunteer lawyers to pursue when FEMA benefits have been denied.

The order comes two months after Murphy, his wife Tammy Murphy, state lawmakers, and local leaders visited Puerto Rico to tour the destruction.

Maria caused the longest blackout in American history, with more than 400,000 customers in Puerto Rico -- an unincorporated territory of the U.S. -- remaining in the dark to this day.

The storm destroyed two-thirds of the island's power distribution system and caused up to an estimated $94 billion in damage.

Murphy's order also comes a day after an explosion and fire at an electric substation caused more blackouts across the northern part of the island Sunday night.

Murphy credited his predecessor, Republican Gov. Chris Christie, with helping start New Jersey's response by sending state troopers to Puerto Rico in the wake of the storm.

But Murphy, a frequent critic of Republican President Donald Trump, took aim at how Trump's administration, which has faced backlash for how it has handled the island's recovery.

"The federal response measured in any dimension has been wanting -- bodies, timing, money, vision, sensitivity, the implication that these folks are not American," Murphy said.

Trump signed a federal spending plan last week that includes $16 billion in disaster aid for Puerto Rico.

New Jersey's commission will be chaired by the Rev. Joshua Rodriguez, pastor of the Cityline Church & National Latino Evangelical Coalition.

Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rossello will also appoint two additional members, according to the executive order.

"Gov. Murphy and the state of New Jersey have been great allies in the recovery process of Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria," Rossello said ion a statement. "We will work hand in hand with the commission to make sure that it is successful in its mission."

This was the 10th executive order Murphy has signed since succeeding Christie on Jan. 16.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Then-Gov.-elect Phil Murphy (far left) and his wife, Tammy Murphy (second from left), tour Puerto Rico in December.

Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.Selling cigarettes in New Jersey may become more expensive.

State Assemblywoman Valerie Huttle, D-Bergen, who says she opposes legalization of cannabis for taxation, is instead drafting legislation that would increase the annual licensing fee for tobacco retailers in the state.

"It's a healthier place to start," Huttle said in an interview with NJ Advance Media.

Huttle notes that at just $50 a year, state tobacco licenses are currently under-priced, and increasing them to the prices paid for liquor licenses could yield a sizable tax revenue windfall.

According to a spokeswoman for the New Jersey Department of the Treasury, there are 10,580 licensed tobacco retailers in the state, netting the state more than half a million dollars in fees.

Huttle said she hasn't yet determined what the new, higher price of her revamped tobacco sales license should be.

The average price paid for a New Jersey liquor license averages $350,000 on the private market according to the New Jersey Licensed Beverage Association's estimates.

However, Huttle's colleague Assemblyman John Burzichelli, D-Gloucester, is simultaneously sponsoring legislation that would would allow restaurants that meet certain conditions to pay as little as $1,500 for a restricted liquor license.

Assuming every retailer currently selling cigarettes ponied up $1,500, the state could realize an almost $15 million in new revenue.

Meanwhile, New Jersey could reap as much as $1 billion in annual tax revenue from legalizing marijuana, according to estimates by the Roseland law firm of Brach Eichler.

Huttle said that while she was willing to decriminalize marijuana possession, she had reservations about unleashing the drug for recreational use.

"I think we should explore other areas of revenue first," she said. "Because honestly, I was shocked that the price of a tobacco license was as low as it is."

Her proposed legislation comes on the heels of other Democratic efforts to extract more money from traditional and electronic cigarettes.

Last month, an Assembly panel advanced legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Herb Conaway Jr., D-Burlington, to license electronic cigarette sellers and vaping retailers and manufacturers in New Jersey.

For his part, Burzichelli said he supports legalizing marijuana for recreational use, but that he wasn't yet convinced that raising the price of tobacco licenses wouldn't hurt small bodega and convenience store owners.

"For many bodega owners, tobacco is a loss leader. If you take that away from (small businesses), I don't know. I'd want to know what that does to the marketplace first," Burzichelli said.

Are you interested in the N.J. cannabis industry? Subscribe here for exclusive insider information from NJ Cannabis Insider

Claude Brodesser-Akner may be reached at cbrodesser@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ClaudeBrodesser. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump on Monday is to roll out his long-awaited infrastructure plan that could make it more difficult to attract the federal funding being counted on for the Gateway Tunnel project.

The original funding agreement with the White House called for the federal government to pay 50 percent of the $30 billion cost of replacing the Portal Bridge and building a new rail tunnel under the Hudson River.

Trump's proposal, which he alluded to in his State of the Union address, puts a premium on states and localities willing to pay a larger share of the cost for construction projects, according to a senior administration official speaking on condition of anonymity in advance of Monday's announcement.

It also sets aside only $200 billion in federal funding for infrastructure projects, some of it taken from other transportation spending, while counting on money from states, localities and private investors to reach a goal of $1.5 trillion.

U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, the top Democrat on the Senate subcommittee overseeing mass transit, wasn't impressed.

"We need a real commitment from the federal government to improve our nation's aging infrastructure, not a smoke-and-mirrors magic act that ultimately leads to folks paying more for less in the form of toll hikes and fare increases," said Menendez, D-N.J. "You grow the economy through investments in our roads, rails and bridges by more safely and more efficiently connecting more people to more places, not by squeezing local governments and the riding and driving public."

While demanding more funding from state and local governments, the Trump administration also hurt their ability to raise that money by reducing the federal deduction for state and local taxes.

Under the proposal, $100 billion would go to match outside investment for transportation projects; $20 billion for what will be called "transformative programs," new construction rather than rebuilding existing public works; $20 billion for loans; $50 billion for block grants to states for construction in rural areas; and a $10 billion capital financing fund.

The administration official suggested Gateway could seek funding from both the $100 billion and the transformative program funds.

The project is the region's top transportation priority. The new tunnel is needed so the existing tubes can be closed temporarily to repair the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy.

New Jersey and New York lawmakers last month asked Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao to ensure that federal government pay its share of the project after K. Jane Williams, deputy administrator of the Federal Transit Administration, said there was no funding agreement.

In his proposed budget last year, Trump had proposed shutting off an important source of funding for Gateway by limiting the Federal Transit Administration's Capital Investment Program, also known as "New Starts," to projects with contracts in place. Gateway is not yet at that stage.

Nevertheless, House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen, R-11th Dist. secured $900 million in the House spending bill for the fiscal year that began Oct. 1. It remains to be seen whether the money will make it in the final legislation now being negotiated with Frelinghuysen and other Senate and House Appropriations Committee members.

Trump's proposal also streamlines environmental reviews and gives more authority to states to make construction decisions.

Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.TAMPA - The last day of the Yankees' offseason was pretty boring until Jack Curry of the Yes Network reported around noon Monday that Hall of Fame closer Goose Gossage won't be a guest instructor during spring training.

No one should be surprised.

After all, Gossage made headlines the last two springs by ranting in interviews on everything that he hates about today's game, and, yes, he named names ... even Yankees past and current greats.

Gossage took shots at Mariano Rivera and Aroldis Chapman in a one-on-one with NJ Advance Media last February.

This time, Gossage reacted to his guest-instructor dissing by taking shots at the exec who pulled the plug on his annual spring work, Yankees GM Brian Cashman.

"I don't like Cashman," Gossage told Brendan Kuty in a phone interview from his home in Colorado.

Prior to the latest round of Gossage controversy, things were pretty uneventful in Yankees' land.

There was a bunch of players working out at the minor-league complex, but the only way to see anyone throw or hit was by looking through a screened outfield fence from a complex parking lot that wasn't off limits to fans and media.

Unlike last year, the complex itself has been off limits during pre-spring workouts, and that's led to fans and media standing at the front entrance waiting for players to come and go.

The media has been standing to the left of the entrance with notebooks and tape reporters, while autograph seekers have lined up on the right.

It was slim pickings on Monday.

Outfielder Clint Frazier and pitcher Domingo German, two of Yankees' young players, signed a few autographs from their cars, but veterans such as pitchers Masahiro Tanaka and Luis Severino, shortstop Didi Gregorius and first baseman Greg Bird exited with stopping for reporters or fans.

The biggest exception was second-year left-hander Jordan Montgomery, who stood at a fence inside the gated complex answering questions for seven minutes from reporters who crowded around a fence and bushes for an interview.

When the questions stopped, Montgomery signed autographs for the three dozen or so fans on hand while making some chitchat with them.

"See you at the World Series," one fan yelled out.

"I hope so," Montgomery shot back.

There wasn't a lot of news coming from Montgomery's interview other than he made it clear that he expects to improve upon his pretty decent rookie season by having an improved changeup, his best pitch as a minor leaguer but one that wasn't effective much in 2017.

Montgomery also addressed the possibility of losing his rotation spot if the Yankees add a proven starter by Opening Day, and there still are unsigned free agents such as Lance Lynn and Alex Cobb who are options.

Tuesday will be a much busier day, as it's reporting day for Yankees pitchers and catchers. Some guys may do some things at Steinbrenner Field besides just show up for a physical, but the first workout doesn't begin until Wednesday.

On reporting day, there should be a lot more interesting things to report on because the Yankees clubhouse will be open from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., then new manager Aaron Boone will meet with reporters at noon.

Randy Miller may be reached at rmiller@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @RandyJMiller. Find NJ.com on Facebook.LSU President F. King Alexander warned a crowded auditorium that "we may be the only generation" in the nation's history to leave the next generation with fewer educational and economic opportunities, unless actions are taken soon.

Drawing attention to Louisiana's high incarceration rate, King also urged attendees to take on the challenge of educating more people and putting them on the pathway to college instead of prison.

"I've heard people say not everybody should go to college. Well, I think everybody doesn't have to go to college, but everybody should have the option to go to college," King added.

Alexander's comments were part of a presentation he gave Feb. 7 at the LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans, as part of a tour titled "LSU 2025: Challenge Accepted | LSU's Role in Addressing the Biggest Problems Facing Our State  And Our Nation."

LSU announced Feb. 5 the university had a $5.1 billion economic impact on Louisiana in 2017, based on the jobs it created and a range of other factors, which were detailed in a study by LSU's Economics & Policy Research Group. Alexander told attendees last Wednesday New Orleans alone benefitted from the Health Sciences Center, which had a $1 billion economic impact and $562.1 million in earnings in the city.

"We have more first-generation Pell Grant students on our campuses than the entire Ivy League combined," Alexander said.

"The job of every one of our faculty members and staff members (is) to continually advance the social mobility of this country, so the next generation gets better than the last generation," Alexander added.

Alexander said after his speech that state lawmakers need to eliminate Louisiana's "budget instability" before June or else LSU is at risk of losing "thousands of students and faculty" who will look for other institutions where they can study and work. The state is facing a $994 million budget gap that state officials warn could lead to cuts to TOPS.

Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

When lawmakers cut TOPS to 70 percent last year, LSU's main campus alone lost 600 potential freshman, Alexander said. He stated that's roughly a $13 million dollar loss for LSU.

The cost for TOPS has grown to $290 million this school year as more students reach eligibility standards amid rising tuition costs. The program operates on a tier system that gives stipends for higher-performing students. Four-year college tuition is covered for high school graduates with 2.5 grade-point averages and 20 ACT college entrance exam scores.

Alexander said some of the recommended ways to remake TOPS could potentially affect low-income students hoping to advance up the economic ladder via a postsecondary education. He stressed that lawmakers must fully fund TOPS.

"We don't want to create our own instability in pitting lower- or middle-income students against those who are in the upper-income population," Alexander said.

Alexander told attendees LSU's presence also contributed to DXC Technology's decision to bring 2,000 of its jobs to New Orleans through 2024. In addition to being one of the leading universities expected to produce workers for the company, Alexander said DXC plans to have a Research and Development branch located at LSU's main campus to solve problems that DXC handles in the technology field.

The university president also drew attention to health issues in Louisiana, where the American Diabetes Association estimates more than one third of adults are pre-diabetic and considered at risk of developing health complications. Alexander said LSU is striving to supply more doctors across the state to confront these issues. His comments came on the 50th anniversary of LSU's School of Dentistry in the city, the state's only dental school.

. . . . . . .

Wilborn P. Nobles III is an education reporter based in New Orleans. He can be reached at wnobles@nola.com or on Twitter at @WilNobles.An underwater cypress forest off the coast of Alabama is a snapshot of what life was like along the Gulf of Mexico more than 50,000 years ago, according to researchers. Tree samples taken from the forest were found to be so old that they could not be radio-carbon dated.

AL.com environmental reporter Ben Raines organized the first scientific missions to the ancient underwater cypress forest south of Gulf Shores, Ala. Since then, researchers have discovered that the trees predate the most recent ice age, which occurred about 12,000 to 18,000 years ago, by nearly 40,000 years.

When the trees were above water, the Gulf Coast sea level was hundreds of feet lower and the coastline was 30 to 60 miles farther offshore, according to AL.com. A NPR story highlights some of the most recent discoveries made by researchers studying the underwater forest.

"It's a huge deal," Kristine DeLong, a paleo-climatologist at Louisiana State University, told NPR. "Because here we have this like perfectly preserved time capsule of an ice age forest."Purchases made via links on our site may earn us an affiliate commissionZulu has star power on Mardi Gras: Not only can you see filmmaker Spike Lee, who is grand marshal, you can also see five Saints players who are riding: Alvin Kamara, Cam Jordan, Marcus Williams, Marshon Lattimore and Mark Ingram.

The Zulu parade, which rolls at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, starts at South Claiborne and Jackson avenues. Maybe you'll catch a coconut, or one of their other cool throws, like a tambourine or a bobble-head doll.

Saints players have been busy at Mardi Gras parade this year. Kamara and Lattimore celebrated Mardi Gras Saturday night (Feb. 10) among adoring fans by doing their own leap - from their Endymion float.

According to ESPN's Katherine Terrell, a former sportswriter for NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune, the Pro-Bowlers hopped off of their float and hung out with spectators along the route, taking pictures and soaking up the atmosphere. Security eventually got the two players back on the float, but they jumped off again a little later, Terrell reported on Twitter.The Krewe of Bacchus celebrated its 50th anniversary on Sunday (Feb. 11) as it rolled Uptown with the theme "Golden Anniversary.'' Actor J.K. Simmons was grand marshal.

Simmons co-starred with Arnold Schwarzenegger in "Terminator: Genisys," which was shot in New Orleans. He plays James Gordon in "Justice League.'' Audiences will also recognize him from "Juno," "Spider-Man," "Whiplash," "Law & Order," HBO's "Oz" and TNT's "The Closer."

Bacchus introduced two new super-floats this year: the Bacchaneer, a four-section float, and Bacchakong Family, a three-section "signature float."

The theme of "golden anniversary'' was reflected in floats such as "Bacchus' Golden Vineyard,'' "Golden Gloves'' and "Golden Record.''

Doubloons honoring the theme included a golden retriever, the golden fleece, the Elizabethan golden age and Egyptian gold.Red Beans parade

Dedicated to New Orlean's traditional Monday supper dish, this charming, 10-year-old walking parade features krewe members' do-it-yourself bean-covered costumes. The march begins at 2 p.m. at the Marigny Opera House, 725 St. Ferdinand St. in the Marigny and travels to the Backstreet Cultural Museum in the Treme. Consult the Red Beans parade website for details.

Dead Beans parade

The Dead Beans parade is a macabre Mid-City spinoff of the Red Beans parade, scheduled to march for the first time on Monday, also at 2 p.m. The parade begins at the Cabrini Bridge on Bayou St. John. It will follow a route along the Esplanade Ridge, rendezvousing with the Red Bean parade in the Treme. Consult the Red Bean parade website for a map and details.

For the backstory read: "A new Mid-City Mardi Gras parade marches in 2018: Dead Beans."

Lundi Gras Festival

Lundi Gras Fest, presented by the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, starts at 10 a.m. in Woldenberg Park and continues all day until 6:30 with live music, crafts, and food booths. The festival peaks at 5 p.m. with the arrival of the Zulu King and Queen aboard a U.S Coast Guard cutter.

The musical lineup at the Lundi Gras Fest King Zulu Stage includes:

DJ Jubilee, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The musical lineup at the Lundi Gras Fest Golden Nugget Stage includes:

The Zulu Ensemble, from 10 to 10:45 a.m.

For more information, visit the Lundi Gras Festival website.

The Arrival of the Zulu King

The King and Queen of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club parade, which takes place on Mardi Gras morning, will arrive in Woldenberg Park near the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas at 5 p.m. Monday aboard a U.S Coast Guard cutter. Their appearance is the peak of the Lundi Gras Festival that takes place at that location throughout the day (See the entry above).

What does Lundi Gras mean?

Lundi Gras, a French phrase that means pace yourself, is applied to the Monday before Mardi Gras.

OK, OK, Lundi Gras really means Fat Monday, just like Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday, which refers to the fact that its the last day observant Catholics can live it up before Lent. I though Lundi Gras was one of those ancient terms that New Orleanians have used since Bienville was a baby, but maybe not.

My research staff (Wikipedia) tells me that the term dates back to just 1987 and was first applied to the Rex/Zulu riverfront celebrations mentioned above. The entry reads: Lundi Gras was the creation of journalist Errol Laborde, The event was staged with the cooperation of Riverwalk Marketplace and its then marketing director Carol Thistle Lentz.

The Arrival of Rex

Rex, the King of Carnival, annually arrives on the New Orleans riverfront on Lundi Gras to begin his reign. Rex and the Zulu King (see the entry above) customarily meet and exchange greetings in a gesture of unity. At the climax of the ceremony, Rex commands that normal affairs be suspended on Tuesday and the big party begin.

Rex usually makes his entrance at Spanish Plaza near the foot of Canal Street. But because of renovations to the plaza, he and his entourage will travel aboard decorated vintage railroad cars a few block uptown to the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk's Julia Street Entrance, which is adjacent to the Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Convention Center.

Free festivities at the site begin at 2:15 p.m. with a performance by Rockin Dopsie and the Zydeco Twisters, Cowboy Mouth at 4:15 p.m., the arrival of Rex at 6 p.m., and fireworks thereafter.

Krewe of Proteus parade

The second-oldest parading group (founded in 1882), Proteus will ply the Uptown route on its antique float chassis, starting at 5:15 p.m.

Krewe of Orpheus parade

The mighty musical Krewe of Orpheus rolls along the traditional Uptown parade route at 6 p.m. Actor Keegan-Michael Key, co-star in Comedy Central's sketch comedy series "Key & Peele," is this year's celebrity king.

NOLA 300 JAM FEST

Featuring Big Freedia, Trombone Shorty, Irma Thomas, and many others, the tricentennial-themed concert takes place following the Orpheus parade, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, continuing to 3 a.m. Tickets are $179 in advance and $199 at the door. For more information, call 504-822-7211 or go to www.kreweoforpheus.com.

Gretna Lundi Gras

The second annual West Bank Lundi Gras celebration takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Gretna Farmers Market, on Huey P. Long Avenue between 3rd and 4th Streets. With music by Rockin Dopsie, Jr. & The Zydeco Twisters and an umbrella decorating contest.

Lundi Gras Party in Rivertown, Kenner

Before the Zulu King cruises downriver to Woldenberg Park, he pauses to party at the Rivertown historic district in Kenner, where he is greeted by the king of Jefferson Parish's Krewe of Argus.

Festivities begin at 11 a.m. and continue to 3 p.m. at 400 Williams Boulevard, with a second-line parade at 11:45 a.m.

What did we miss?

If you know of a Lundi Gras activity that we forgot, please add it to the comment stream.

Doug MacCash has the best job in the world, covering art, music, and culture in New Orleans. Contact him via email at dmaccash@nola.com. Follow him on Twitter at Doug MacCash and on Facebook at Douglas James MacCash. As always, please add your point of view to the comment stream."It has its issues as any family does, but there's nowhere on Earth I'd rather live," writes Millie Ball, retired Times-Picayune travel writer in a feature on New Orleans in The Los Angeles Times.

If you get so tired of reading feature stories about the Crescent City -- its attitude, its food and its foibles -- that just don't seem to get it quite right, this one might be the antidote. It comes from a seasoned travel writer and a seasoned New Orleanian.

The Los Angeles Times travel feature celebrates the city's history, quirks and riches.

A few excerpts:

* "Sex, life and death are celebrated as are the New Orleans Saints, a passion often mentioned in obituaries."

* "Three months after Katrina, Ricky Graham, a popular playwright-actor, opened a show called 'I'm Still Here, Me!' Audiences cheered when he walked onstage wearing a hat shaped like a roof covered by a blue tarp.

"'Thank God for Valium and beer, I'm still here,' he sang. The show ran a year."

* Most New Orleanians are fluent in Carnival speak. For example, a cousin told me, "I'm riding Chaos, fourth float, second position, neutral ground side."

Find the feature here.

And, as Ball notes: "... just as you don't have to understand a person to love him or her, you can embrace a city without fully understanding why."Matia Lwanga Bwanika, the outspoken Wakiso district chairman, and Gen Salim Saleh are on opposite sides of a very bitter quarrel over the environmentally destructive though lucrative mining of sand in Lake Victoria.

Bwanika, in a recent interview, said he is fighting sand mining started by mafias of recent. I got to know about them in May last year.

Faced with a threat of censure by his own district councillors, Bwanika said he wont be cowed by anybody, not the district council which he says has been compromised, and certainly not by any well-connected individuals.

Whether councillors abandon me, I will insist on saying that what is happening is illegal even if it means losing the chairmanship, he said.

He roundly dismissed as false Salehs claim that the benefits of sand mining, which include; creation of jobs and development, outweigh fears over environmental degradation.

Saleh, a younger brother of President Museveni, told journalists recently that Uganda must make a painful choice to either allow sand mining to facilitate industrialisation or allow its citizens to remain jobless.

He suggested that Wakisos politicians have frustrated sand mining, thereby paralysing construction of industries in Namunkekera Rural Industrial Centre in Kapeeka town, Nakaseke district.

Sounding outraged by the impunity of it all, Bwanika said, I appeal to the ministry of education to investigate the schools Saleh went to because he wouldnt have made such a statement if he had gone to good schools.

A school that doesnt teach sustainable development in economics is not a good school. Sustainable development and the environment are synonymous. You cant have one and lose the other; they move together. If its just development for the sake of it, we should cut down all the trees, he added.

The multi-million sand mining business deep inside Lake Victoria is being carried out by Chinese firms with the backing of big shots in governments.

The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) has previously refused to issue licenses for sand mining firms but was ignored by miners apparently confident in the clout of their well-connected backers.Police has called for calm and patience from furious staff of human rights awareness and promotion forum-Uganda (HRAPF), who'd staged a protest at Old Kampala police station following a second break-in into their offices last week.

Nearly two years after the first break-in on May 22, 2016  leading to the brutal murder of the security guard on duty Emmanuel Arituha; last week on February 9, HRAPF offices located along Prof, Apolo Nsibambi road, Namirembe in Kampala were again broken into by unknown assailants.

Some of HRAPF staff and partners in a meeting with police station DPC

Armed with placards, HRAPF staff camped at Old Kampala police station to demand for the immediate conclusion of the investigations into the now rampant breaking into NGO offices.

Following a meeting with senior police officials at the station, police acknowledged the need for quicker investigations and promised to provide armed guards to the NGO until the investigations are concluded. For the first break-in investigations, police officials reportedly said the file had been called to the CIID headquarters but will be recalled to the station to conclude investigations.

A matrix organised by the by National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders Uganda (NCHRDU), shows that at least 24 premises of Non-governmental organisations and civil societies have been broken into since 2012.

HRAPF staff had threatened to camp at Kampala police station for the near future, arguing that since their offices had become insecure, the only possible secure place to work from was at police stations.

Adrian Jjuuko HRAPF executive director said last weeks raid was carried out at about 3.00am by group of about nine unidentified individuals broke into their offices.

Jjuuko explained that according to an eyewitness, the thugs jumped over the high perimeter wall surrounding the office, disabled the electricity supply thus affecting the operations of CCTV cameras.

They then attacked the guards on duty including the dog with iron bars and batons. One part of the group carried on the scuffle with the guards and the dog while the other plied open the main door to the main building and the back door, triggering the emergency alarm in the process.

Jjuuko said the guards belonging to G4S were able to escape by climbing onto the water tank and jumping into the next compound, sustaining severe injuries including a skull fracture to one of them.

The two guards, Sseezi Bwambale and Godfrey Okwi are currently battling for their lives at St. Francis Nsambya hospital after injuries sustained during the attack. Jjuuko, said that from the records made, they found nothing was taken from the HRAPF offices.

This is the second such attack that HRAPF has suffered within a period of less than two years, and all being executed in almost the same fashion, Jjuuko said.

He explained that despite the police taking fingerprints and blood samples, and HRAPF providing CCTV footage clearly showing the faces of the attackers, the police after constant reminders from HRAPF only provided a short report classifying the attack as a random attack, without providing how they came to that conclusion or identifying anyone who was involved and what had been done to them.

Organisations such as the Uganda Land Alliance, the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative, the Legal Aid Service Providers Network, Akina Mama Wa Afrika and the Anti-Corruption Coalition have suffered break-ins in similar fashion and, despite timely reports to the police on all occasions, investigations have been unsatisfactory and the follow up insufficient.

This is the latest in a series of attacks against civil society organisations which, regardless of the motivations of the assailants, points to the increasing lack of protection provided to human rights defenders in Uganda, said Jjuuko.

Police promises to conclude investigations into the two break-ins into @hrapf_uganda offices. Following a 2nd break-in last week, nearly two years after the first one in 2016, the NGO staff today camped at Old Kampala police station to demand for conclusion of the investigations pic.twitter.com/TgnLSNhldB  The Observer (@observerug) February 12, 2018

alfredodcho@gmail.comMeet Lulwa, also known as the Million Dollar Bride, a 120 kilogram-wedding cake shaped like a life-size Arabian bride. She was created by Debbie Wingham, the worlds most expensive designer, and showcased at the 2018 Dubai Bride Show, in the UAE.

Wingham is the creator of some of the most expensive objects of desire in history, including a $16 million shoe, a $4.8 million black diamond dress, and the worlds most expensive wedding cake which was valued at a staggering $67 million. With an estimated value of only $1 million, the designers latest work, the Million Dollar Bride cake was one of her most affordable projects yet. But what the cake lacked in financial value, it certainly made up in style and realism.

Photo: Debbie Wingham/Instagram

Lulwa  Arabic for pearls  was modelled on a traditional Arabic bride wearing a stylish dress made of fondant. The cake consisted of dozens of layers of sponge, 25 kilograms of chocolate, and around 50 kilograms of fondant. It weighed about 120 kilograms and had to be carried by no less than six people.

A post shared by Debbie wingham (@debbie_wingham) on Feb 8, 2018 at 12:17pm PST

No one actually believes its a cake. In fact, she is as good as a living being for me. I call her Lulwa, Debbie Wingham told Khaleej Times. I have often been influenced by Middle Eastern culture. To actually make a Middle Eastern-inspired wedding cake is really up there with my other exciting endeavours. Most of my pieces are based on realism and I am glad that people liked it.

A post shared by Debbie wingham (@debbie_wingham) on Feb 8, 2018 at 12:30pm PST

The edible brides features were sculpted out of modelling chocolate, and her dress was almost entirely made of lace-textured white fondant. Her impressive gown was decorated with 5,000 hand-cut fondant flowers and 10,000 edible pearls. Even though Wingham described her creation as fully edible, that most certainly does not include the five large diamonds dotting the dress and headgear of the bride. Each priced at $200,000, it was these diamonds that inspired the cakes Million Dollar Bride name.

A post shared by Debbie wingham (@debbie_wingham) on Feb 8, 2018 at 11:39am PST

Lulwa was unveiled on the opening day of the recently concluded 2018 Dubai Bride Show, and later cut and served to guest of the event.A young couple who quit their jobs and sold everything they owned in order to buy a boat and go on an epic sailing adventure had to put their bold dream on hiatus after their sailboat sank just two days into their voyage.

Tanner Broadwell and Nikki Walsh had been planning their once-in-a-lifetime adventure for over two years. They both had jobs they didnt really enjoy and felt that there had to be more to life than constantly being involved in a rat race. Tanner, who had grown up in Cocoa Beach, Florida, convinced Nikki that sailing around the Gulf of Mexico, maybe even the world, was the escape they were both looking for, and they started working harder to make their dream a reality. They started saving money, he Ubered on the side, and last year they took the plunge. The couple quit their jobs, sold everything they owned and bought a 49-year-old sailboat in Alabama. The boat cost $5,000, but they had so spend that much more fixing it up.

Photo: Tanner Broadwell/GoFundMe

Neither of the two would-be adventurers had any sailing experience, so Tanners father helped them sail along the Gulf Coast, from Alabama to Panama City. In May of last year, the couple stocked the boat with all their worldly possessions and moved from Colorado to Tanner Springs, Florida, where Broadwell got a job and continued working on the boat, getting ready for their epic voyage. The sailboat, which they named Lagniappe (Creole for bonus), became their home

On Tuesday, February 6th, the two finally set of on their sailing adventure, leaving Mar Marina to the cheers of the people they had befriended in Tanner Springs. It was the perfect start to their dream, but it wasnt going to last very long.

The first day of their new life went by as planned, and they anchored off in Anclote Key for the night. The second day also went by without major issues, but around 8:45 pm, just as they passed by Clearwater Beach and made their way to Johns Pass to dock for the night, disaster struck. Their boat, named Lagniappe (Creole for bonus), struck something underwater and almost threw Nikki off the deck.

Photo: Tanner Broadwell/GoFundMe

Tanner quickly realized that whatever they hit had ripped the keel off the bottom of the Lagniappe. As he went down into the cabin to check the damage, he saw their belonging floating on the water that was quickly pouring in. Realising the seriousness of the situation, Broadwell immediately called Sea Tow, the AAA of the marine world, and they said they would be at their location in 40 minutes.

When Sea Tow arrived, about an hour later, the Lagniappe had sunk about 9 feet and was about to roll over. All they could do was instruct the Broadwell and Walsh to abandon ship and transport them to shore as their boat went under. All they remember from that point on is finding themselves stranded on the side of the road with just their small dog, $90 in cash and the clothes on their backs.

Tanners mother was able to call them an Uber driver who was kind enough to spend hours finding them a cheap hotel to spend the night in.

Photo: ABC Action News

How do I have everything, and end up in a shitty hotel with nothing? Nikki remembers thinking as she struggled to cope with their misfortune. I just lost everything I ever owned.

The next day, things started getting better. Their new friends from Tanner Springs drove down to help them and Broadwells mother arrived from Jacksonville. Theyre getting by ok for now, but they still have no idea where theyll live from now on, or how theyre going to pay to have their bat removed from Johns Pass. The Coast Guard has already told the couple that they need to get their boat out of there, an operation that could cost up to $10,000. They only have $90, no jobs and no insurance.

However, Tanner and Nikki are glad to be alive and claim that although their sailboat may have sunk, their dreams are very much alive. Broadwell told the Tampa Bay Times that he plans on getting another boat at some point.



Im not going to give up now, Tanner said. Im going to get another boat down the road. We cant just give up on our dreams.

As for what caused the Lagniappe to sink, Kenny Keen, a local charter boat captain, told ABC Action News that storms often shift the channel leading to the docks and large sandbars wait to trap boats if their captains dont hit the buoys just right.

Weve also had several experienced captains hit that from time to time when theres been big storms and they try to get into the inlet and they dont hit the buoy just right, Keen said.

Meanwhile, Tanner and Nikki have set up a GoFundMe page where people can donate to their cause.Ginza is known as the most fashionable district of Japans capital, Tokyo, and one public elementary school located there recently decided that it would be very fitting for children to dress accordingly. Thus Taimei Elementary School students will be donning $700 designer uniforms created by Italian fashion label Armani.

The schools decision to replace its old uniforms without even consulting the parents has sparked outrage all over Japan, and was even discussed in Japans Parliament last week, with one opposition lawmaker noting that the 80,000 yen ($700) school uniforms were more expensive than most business suits. In a country where school tuition fees are already a heavy burden for most parents, Taimeis decision to introduce luxury uniforms that cost almost three times as the old ones has been branded as unnecessary and elitist.

Photo: Taimei Elementary School

A standard school uniform at Taimei Elementary School costs around 17,000 yen ($155) for boys and 19,000 yen for girls, and includes a jacket, pants or skirt, shirt or blouse, and hat. However, the new Armani attire would cost over 40,000 yen ($310), and also comes with optional designer accessories (school bag, vest, sweater and socks) for a total cost of 80,000 yen ($736).

Parents learned about the designer uniforms in November of last year, when Taimeis Principal Toshitsugu Wada sent out a letter to the school community, explaining that his decision was meant meant to solidify the schools identity as a Ginza landmark. Many parents responded with emails to the local education board, complaining about the excessive cost of the new designer uniform, and the embarrassment brought to families that cant afford to buy it.

It should be noted that according to Ginzas education board, school uniforms are not compulsory. However, wearing them is deemed desirable, and currently virtually all students wear them. Thus, many have criticized Principal Wadas decision to opt for such an expensive option, with some claiming it was like saying no to poor people or that only children who take pride in Armani are welcome.

Photo: Taimei Elementary School

Despite all this controversy regarding his decision, Taimeis Toshitsugu Wada told Japanese news agencies that he feels he made the right choice and that everyone will see that the new uniforms are worth the extra cost Asked if there was any chance of scrapping the new Armani uniforms and sticking with the standard ones, Wada said that the old uniforms are no longer being produced.

I made the decision for the future of Taimei Elementary School, Wada recently wrote on the Taimei school website. I was humbled by the complaints about the lack of explanation and the belated announcement, and I will put my best effort to properly explain it (to gain understanding).

The new Armani uniforms are scheduled to be introduced at Taimei Elementary School in April.

Sources: Asahi Shimbun, Kyodo NewsChartwell Strategy Group, which opened for business last month, is repping the Government of Georgia for public affairs work under an oral agreement valued at $50K per-month.

The DC firm will support Georgias outreach to the US Congress and White House in an effort to generate political support for the former Soviet Union republic.

It will lobby for more direct foreign assistance and push bolster bilateral trade relations.

Chartwell and Georgia are in the process of writing up a formal contract for the PA effort, which will run for a year.

Variety (Feb. 9) reported that Georgia, a rugged and beautiful nation nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, has been making a pitch to lure international filmmakers to shoot in the country.

It offers incentives such as a 20 percent rebate on local spending.

Andrea Edney

The National Press Club will defend journalism from threats posed by the Trump administration's bid to dictate the news, said its new president Andrea Edney at the Feb. 10 gala to celebrate her inauguration.

The Bloomberg News editors remarks followed the keynote address by First Amendment lawyer Floyd Abrams, in which he spoke of the disparaging way that President Trump talks about the press, but reminded the audience that tension between the White House and media is nothing new.

He noted that John Adams was responsible for the Sedition Act of 1798, which made it a crime to speak falsely of the president, of the Congress, of the Supreme Court and just about everything in our government.

Though Abrams conceded that journalism is facing many dangers in the US, he also told the audience that press protections do remain strong, stronger in the United States as a matter of law, than any place else in the world, adding that is up to the press to remain vigilant in using and defending its freedoms and that of all Americans.

Edney, who in her first press conference on Jan. 19 called for Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials to release Mexican journalist Emilio Gutierrez, told the audience that NPC will not rest until Emilio is released and granted asylum.

In October, the NPC invited Gutierrez to accept the John Aubuchon Press Freedom Award on behalf of Mexico's journalists.

Gutierrez is being held by ICE while he appeals the rejection of his request for asylum in the US. ICE says Gutierrez would be a flight risk during the appeal process, as well as rejecting his claims that he is a working journalist and that his life is threatened in Mexico.

According to The Committee to Protect Journalists, 43 journalists have been killed in Mexico since 1992.

Edney reasserted NPCs mission to fight for press freedoms for US journalists. We are going to keep fighting to protect press freedoms in this country and throughout the world, she told the audience.Bailey McCann, Opalesque New York:

When Don Raymond was at the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) he pioneered a total portfolio style of investing that was global, diversified and designed to work over the long-term. Raymond took that view with him to Toronto-based Alignvest when he left CPPIB in 2014. At the Cayman Alternative Investment Summit, Raymond caught up with Opalesque to discuss what he's working on now.

Opalesque: So, you've been with Alignvest for almost four years. What are you working on now?

DR: I'm excited about the work I'm doing with Alignvest Investment Management. We are creating multi-asset portfolio solutions for high net worth portfolios and accredited investors. The idea builds on what I started with CPPIB. So, the view is similar to what you see at CPPIB and other pensions - diversified investments, global in nature. We are also working on a product that mimics private equity type returns, but that is liquid and invests in listed companies.

Opalesque: Are you able to maintain your investment principles with smaller portfolios or is this a slightly diluted version of what you did at CPPIB?

DR: No dilution. Actually, what's been interesting is we are able to invest in things that wouldn't have worked at CPPIB because they were too small for the pension. So in some ways, we've been able to get more diversification in the portfolio. That's been really exciting. ......................

To view our full article Click hereKomfie Manalo, Opalesque Asia:

South Africa's Regulation 28 of the Pension Fund Act allows pension funds to allocate at least 10% of their assets into hedge funds, a number that could translate to hundreds of billions of dollars in inflows into the industry.

However, in reality, less than 1% of South Africa's pension funds are allocated into hedge funds.

"One thing to look at is why there may be reluctance for pension funds to put any money into hedge funds," stated Udesh Naicker, head of hedge fund regulation in South Africa's, Financial Services Board (FSB) said at the latest Opalesque South Africa Roundtable.

Naicker explained that the cynical view expressed by some managers is the consultants to the pension funds actually have no vested interest in making that allocation and/or that they don't actually understand how hedge funds work. "So again, we as the regulator can't drive that allocation; that it something the industry has to drive," he continued.

The potential large amount of capital available to the hedge fund industry coming from pension funds is not lost to Steven Liptz of 36ONE Asset Management who added that the hundreds of billions of dollars from these institutional investors could be a big boost to the local fund industry which currently has......................

To view our full article Click hereThe victim of a stabbing early Sunday at a Clark County convenience store has died, Vancouver police said Monday morning.

Police found Lukas Pison, 27, about 1:20 a.m. lying in the parking lot after a report of a disturbance at the AM/PM at 1800 N.E. Andresen Road. He had severe injuries and was taken to the hospital.

When they arrived, officers found several people still fighting outside the store. They determined the suspect had fled on foot, and a police dog was used to track the man, who was found hiding nearby in some bushes.

Charson Lotius, 24, was arrested and now faces a first-degree murder charge. He is also accused of assaulting 19-year-old Kastro Pison, whose condition was not available.

The investigation is ongoing. Police ask anyone who may have witnessed the crime or has additional information to contact the Vancouver Police Department.

-- The Oregonian/OregonLiveThe Oregon Ducks look to complete a home sweep of the Washington schools this evening against Washington State.

Follow this post for live updates from today's game.

Pregame information

Time: 5 p.m.

Location: Matthew Knight Arena, Eugene, Oregon

On the air: 95.3 FM Eugene, 750 AM Portland, ESPN U

Projected starters:

Oregon (16-8, 6-5)

Troy Brown, 6-7, Fr. (12.1 ppg, 6.5 rpg)

Paul White, 6-9, Jr. (9.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg)

MiKyle McIntosh, 6-7, Sr. (9.6 ppg, 6.4 rpg)

Payton Pritchard, 6-2, So. (14.3 ppg, 4.7 apg)

Elijah Brown, 6-4, Sr. (13.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg)

Washington State (9-14, 1-10)

Robert Franks, 6-7, Jr. (17.9 ppg, 6.9 rpg)

Carter Skaggs, 6-5, So. (9.3 ppg, 2.5 rpg)

Jeff Pollard, 6-9, So. (4.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg)

Viont'e Daniels, 6-2, Jr. (8.7 ppg, 2.3 rpg)

Malachi Flynn, 6-1, So. (14.5 ppg, 4.3 apg)

Links:

Live updates:

-- Tyson Alger

talger@oregonian.com

@tysonalgerPortland Public Schools retaliated against a substitute teacher for reporting sexual misconduct by one of its employees, a district investigation has found.

A human resources investigation found Caprice, who has asked to only be identified by her first name, was iced out of substitute teaching positions because she reported to the district in 2012 that then-teacher Mitch Whitehurst had demanded oral sex from her and a friend when they were students in the 1980s.

Records showed she put in for, and was selected for, substitute teaching days at the school where Whitehurst taught  but that her assignments were canceled before they took effect.

As a result, the district will pay Caprice for money she lost from canceled assignments, said Interim Human Resources Senior Director Sharon Reese in her report.

The report also says employees will be disciplined for the retaliation, but does not name any names. The report does not make clear whether an employee or employees at the school or in the human resources department canceled Caprice's assignments.

"This is evidence that Portland Public Schools violated my rights by engaging in the illegal practice of whistleblower retaliation. As the story told by (Portland Public Schools) begins to unravel, it becomes glaringly apparent that I was telling the truth all along," Caprice said. "This is the first step in holding them accountable to the public. Next steps must include investigation results being made public, followed by meaningful consequences. I won't quit until structural changes are made to keep students safe."

Caprice first spoke publicly about her fears that the district had punished her for speaking up in an August 2017 Oregonian/OregonLive story that revealed how district officials protected Whitehurst from accusations of sexual misconduct time and again at the expense of children.

A much larger district-initiated investigation is still ongoing concerning Whitehurst. In response to The Oregonian/OregonLive story, the school board hired a hand-picked team of independent investigators to find out how the district dropped the ball and what should be done to ensure safety for students in the future.

Caprice told The Oregonian/OregonLive last year that she reported Whitehurst to the school's principal in 2012 when she ran into him at Faubion School while on assignment. Yet she was the one who faced fallout: He kept his job, she said, while she stopped getting assignments at the school. The district did not terminate him until March of 2015.

In December 2017, she filed a complaint with district human resources and asked if she'd been denied teaching jobs because she'd blown the whistle on Whitehurst.

Computer records revealed that Caprice was approved for teaching assignments at Faubion at least three times, but those assignments were suddenly canceled and given to other substitutes. Once, she showed up at the school and was told to go home.

"That's really jerking someone around to say, 'Come in, go home,'" Caprice told The Oregonian/OregonLive this week. "It's outrageous. It's an outrageously unprofessional way to treat someone, and I felt humiliated and I felt belittled."

The report says the repeated cancellations prompted Caprice to stop selecting jobs at Faubion.

The report noted it was unclear, but irrelevant, whether Caprice's jobs at Faubion were canceled because someone was trying to protect her from interactions with Whitehurst.

"Restricting a substitute teacher from jobs at a particular school because of her report of serious misconduct is likely to have a chilling effect on the reporting of such claims," the report said

The report included a formal apology to Caprice.

"You should have been able to speak up with neither the fear nor the actual experience of retaliation," the report said.

Board chair Julia Brim-Edwards said as a new board member this was exactly the type of response she expects: that complaints will be taken seriously and handled quickly. Brim-Edwards has criticized the district's prior handling of complaints as sluggish and dysfunctional.



"It's refreshing," Brim-Edwards said. "The district did the right thing."

Caprice said she was angry that the district would not name who retaliated against her.

"I wanted names and I think I deserve names," she said. "I wanted to know who did what, where, when and why."

Spokesman Dave Northfield said the district would not give any details on the person or persons responsible for the retaliation.

Caprice had also reported Whitehurst in 2008, making a detailed report directly to the district's top human resources lawyer, but that lawyer, Maureen Sloane, decided unilaterally to take no action. Had the district taken either of her reports seriously, Whitehurst's teaching career almost certainly would have ended sooner.

Caprice's allegations ultimately caused Whitehurst to lose his license. Although the district never reported either of her disclosures to Oregon's teacher license agency, after a male colleague said Whitehurst offensively touched him, the state became aware of Caprice's allegations. A state investigator looked into Caprice's account, which was corroborated by her high school friend whom Whitehurst also solicited for sex. The state agency then revoked Whitehurst's teaching license on the grounds he'd committed sexual misconduct with the two of them.

The male colleague subsequently sued the district, alleging Portland Public Schools knew Whitehurst to be a threat.

Caprice's complaint to human resources also said that a lawyer from the district's outside law firm, Miller Nash Graham & Dunn, threatened her for agreeing to be a witness in that case.

Caprice said in 2016 she got a call from Miller Nash attorney Naomi Haslitt, who explained the call was on behalf of Jollee Patterson, who was then the district's top in-house lawyer. Patterson subsequently left the district in 2016 to work for Miller Nash.

Haslitt "became threatening, warning me against saying (anything) negative against the district, saying they could sue me," the complaint says. "She then said, 'If you are going to testify against the district, you should get a lawyer.' Then she hung up on me."

Caprice did not testify because the school board settled its case with the male colleague for $250,000.

The human resources investigation found Haslitt had called Caprice, but since it was just the two of them on the phone line, there wasn't enough evidence to say whether or not Haslitt threatened Caprice. Haslitt denied threatening Caprice.

After the call, Caprice phoned Matthew Ellis, the attorney for the male employee who sued the district. Ellis remembered Caprice telling him she felt threatened, but did not remember Caprice saying Haslitt had threatened to sue her, the investigation report says.

"Your call to Ellis and his memory of your report to him supports that you were concerned about Haslitt's statements to you and felt pressured at the time," the report says. "It does not support the level of threat or intimidation suggested by a threat of litigation."

Still, the report says Caprice's account is being considered.

"It is important to recognize that, even when there is not a finding of misconduct, there is an opportunity for your experience to inform the work of the district moving forward," the report said. "Your experience is being taken into consideration by the general counsel in ongoing work to improve legal department practices."

After The Oregonian/OregonLive's investigation, board member Mike Rosen said he felt attorneys had pressured the school board to settle the lawsuit to avoid more information about the district's mishandling of Whitehurst becoming public.

"I don't want to mention names. I think it is enough to say the counsel that what we got from our attorneys  whether they were from inside the district or outside counsel  it was awful," Rosen said in August. "It just makes me realize we need better counsel from the inside and the outside."

Since then, the district has reduced its dependence on Miller Nash, the high-powered law firm that has long had a cozy relationship with Oregon's largest school district. A review of the legal department and its expenses is underway, with a stated mission of diversifying which firms gets Oregon's largest school district as a client.

 Bethany Barnes

Got a tip about Portland Public Schools? Email Bethany: bbarnes@oregonian.comBy Ron Wyden

Time is nearly up to protect a free and open internet from a hostile takeover by Big Cable.

Last December, Donald Trump's Federal Communications Commission gutted strong net neutrality protections that ensured when Oregonians paid for internet access, they could go where they wanted and how they wanted at the speed they paid for.

For businesses, net neutrality means freedom to compete online. For consumers, it means one internet for all. These protections meant startups couldn't be put in the slow lane by internet giants buying off faster speeds from cable companies. No net neutrality means the mom-and-pop pizza shop could have a harder time reaching customers online than the big chains. Or the local library might have to pay more to reach websites and information that students and residents need.

Here's what net neutrality means for your wallet: Just when you think you can cut costs by dropping cable and subscribing directly to Netflix and HBO, the cable companies have been given the ability to reach back into your pocket with new ISP-based fees. Comcast and AT&T won't accept any reduction in what Oregonians pay them without a fight -- certainly not while they have a compliant Congress and FCC in their pockets.

I've long fought for net neutrality, because I knew a handful of monopolist cable companies couldn't be trusted with the internet. I wrote the first comprehensive net neutrality bill in the Senate in 2006. And I wrote and passed legislation protecting the internet from discriminatory taxes and kept regulators from starving the digital economy.

I've also been pushing Trump's FCC chairman on why he's ignoring millions of people who voiced support for net neutrality, and tuning out the cacophony of fake comments that poured in. His answers are unacceptable. It's clear he's only interested in doing whatever Big Cable asks.

But all hope's not lost. The best option is for Congress to pass, and Trump to sign, a bill I'm cosponsoring that would restore strong net neutrality. We're one vote away from passage in the Senate, but it's an uphill battle in the House. Federal action is best to ensure one set of rules that can't be undone as easily by Big Cable's lawyers.

But because Republican leaders are in the bag for Big Cable, we can't count on Congress to pass legislation. And we certainly can't count on Trump.

So in the "Oregon Way" spirit, our state should follow the same path on net neutrality it's blazed so often: It should lead the way for the country by enacting strong, enforceable net neutrality protections I've long been fighting for at the federal level. Anything that preserves the internet's essential place as the platform for free expression and association -- and its status as the shipping lane of the 21st century -- is good.

As the internet becomes increasingly intertwined with our lives through things like digital personal assistants and driverless cars, we can't relax and let cable companies run the place. Net neutrality's principles have created the internet as we know it. We must do all we can to preserve and protect those principles on the state and federal levels.

-- Democrat Ron Wyden represents Oregon in the U.S. Senate.

Share your opinion

Submit your essay of 800 words or less on a highly topical issue or a theme of particular relevance to the Pacific Northwest, Oregon and the Portland area to commentary@oregonian.com. Please include your email and phone number for verification.Updated 4:35 p.m.

SALEM  Gov. Kate Brown on Monday pardoned a former Portland gang member for a crime he committed 25 years ago, marking only the third time she has granted clemency in office.

Dondrae Fair, 44, grew up in Northeast Portland during the height of the city's crack epidemic and turned to the streets at a young age. He served a five-year prison sentence for an armed robbery in 1992, a felony conviction that followed Fair as he worked to transform his life and those of other young men caught up in a cycle of poverty, drugs and violence.

Fair severed his gang ties in 2000, devoting himself to a growing family and serving as a mentor and advocate for gang-affiliated men in Portland who have been to prison, a role that's earned him distinction among prosecutors and other members of the criminal justice system.

During a private ceremony in the State Capitol, Brown praised Fair's "extraordinary" story.

"Mr. Fair's own history of overcoming personal challenges and turning away from gang life lends him the credibility to be such an impactful role model to the young men he mentors," she said.

The governor's pardon will remove the robbery conviction from Fair's record.

Fair, known to many by his childhood nickname "Choo," said the decades-old conviction, as it does for many men and women, has held him back in life both professionally and personally. It kept him from getting jobs when he was fresh out of prison. Later, his felony conviction prevented him from volunteering at Portland elementary schools or even attending fieldtrips with his children.

Fair also said that new mandatory background checks at his current work with Volunteers for America, a nonprofit group that receives federal funding, threatened his employment.

"It's like a house being lifted off your back," he said in an interview with The Oregonian/OregonLive.

He added that his pardon could serve as an inspiration for many of the gang-involved men who attend a nine-month program he leads that permits early parole upon completion. "I come from that lifestyle," Fair said. "I want my story to give them hope."

Fair said he grew up on Northeast Killingsworth Street without a father. As a kid in the late 1980s he witnessed firsthand how his predominately black neighborhood became consumed by drugs, violence and prostitution as crack cocaine swept through the area.

When his mother became an addict, Fair said he formed a gang with children who were impoverished and abandoned. "They became my family," he said.

Fair's robbery conviction, which stemmed from an incident in which he used a gun to take someone's car, was far from his only arrest. He landed in jail over assaults, thefts and other crimes.

In 2000, just months after the birth of his eldest son, he was shot in the chest on his way to a liquor store.

Soon after the near-fatal shooting, Fair decided he had enough. He quit the gang life. He focused his energy on his wife, Teressa, and their children, which soon grew to five.

Fair began mentoring troubled young men through Volunteers of America in 2009. He helps them land job interviews or look for housing. He fields their phone calls and takes them out to lunch. He draws on his own life experience to connect.

"He's the one who comes to visit you in jail. He's the one that will answer your phone call on a Sunday," said Jamarie Herring, 22, a Southeast Portland man who recently completed Fair's program. "He comes from where we come from. What he says and does is real."

The Criminal Justice Reform Clinic at Lewis & Clark Law School worked with Fair to complete his pardon petition, which he filed in September. It included letters from family members, including his wife and eldest daughter. But Fair also received recommendations from members of Multnomah County's criminal justice system.

Among those who supported his clemency: the Portland police officer who investigated Fair's 1992 robbery, multiple probation and parole officers who have worked with Fair in his role as an advocate and Multnomah County District Attorney Rod Underhill.

In his letter, Underhill described Fair as a "community leader and passionate interrupter of gang violence." Underhill's office also contacted people affected by Fair's robbery crime, the letter said. All but one supported clemency for his 1992 conviction.

"If we are to believe in such things as pardons or second chances, they should be reserved for exceptional individuals such as Choo," Underhill told The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Since assuming office in 2015, Brown has used her executive power to grant clemency to individuals sparingly. She pardoned three men on a single day in December 2016. Each had committed a minor crime more than 20 years ago and weren't in prison.

Last August, Brown commuted the sentence of Brandon Dixon, who was 17 when he pleaded guilty to a 2009 robbery spree in Clackamas County. Dixon had served over half of his 15-year sentence when the governor approved his clemency request.

Pardons erase convictions from criminal records, while commutations do not.

John Kitzhaber granted clemency to one person while governor. On his last day in office, Kitzhaber pardoned Sang Duo, who was serving 12 1/2 years for two Portland shootings.

By contrast, Ted Kulongoski granted clemency to 15 people during his last two years in office. He pardoned 13 and commuted the sentences of two.

Kulongoski granted clemency for crimes ranging from first-degree robbery to drug possession and distribution.

Brown's office has so far reviewed roughly 250 clemency applications during her tenure, said spokesman Bryan Hockaday.

Aliza Kaplan, who directs the Criminal Justice Reform Clinic at Lewis & Clark Law School and who served as Fair's lawyer on his petition, said she was thrilled by Brown's decision.

But Kaplan, who attended Monday's ceremony, also believes the governor should exercise her clemency power in more cases to address what she and other reform advocates say is a history of harsh prison sentences and racial disparities in Oregon's criminal justice system.

"Commutations for women with overly long and harsh sentences would be a good place to start," Kaplan said. Oregon's female prison population grew nearly 20 percent between 2012 and 2017 and is estimated to rise another 0.8 percent over the next 10 years, a recent report by the state's Office of Economic Analysis shows.

Fair, meanwhile, said he'll savor this small victory. "I think it's finally starting to hit me," he said. "I'm free. I'm finally free."

-- Shane Dixon Kavanaugh

skavanaugh@oregonian.com

503-294-7632 II @shanedkavanaughRecently unearthed college writings by federal prosecutor Ryan Bounds commenting on racial groups and campus sexual assaults are inflammatory, archaic and alarming, Oregon's two U.S. senators said Monday.

Yet the two Democrats forwarded Bounds' name as one of four finalists chosen by a bipartisan Oregon judicial selection committee for the vacancy on the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.

"After the committee finished its work, we learned that Ryan Bounds failed to disclose inflammatory writings that reveal archaic and alarming views about sexual assault, the rights of workers, people of color, and the LGBTQ community," U.S. Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden said in a joint statement.

"While we have followed through on our commitment to forward to the White House the names reported by the committee, we do not believe Mr. Bounds is a suitable nominee for a lifetime appointment to the bench," the statement said.

Bounds' commentaries while at Stanford University in the 1990s were detailed in a report by the liberal judicial advocacy group Alliance for Justice. In opinion pieces for The Stanford Review, Bounds derided multiculturalism on campus, expressed disdain for "race-focused groups'' and questioned the university's role in punishing students in rape and sexual assault cases.

Bounds, 44, a politically conservative assistant U.S. attorney in Portland, last week sent an email to members of the Multnomah Bar Associations' equity, diversity and inclusion committee, apologizing for his "misguided sentiments'' in college. Bounds chairs the committee.

The senators said they'll make their concerns known to the Senate Judiciary Committee. The White House in January had renominated Bounds for the 9th Circuit vacancy after his nomination last year didn't result in a vote. Oregon's senators last year objected to Bounds' nomination, saying his name wasn't vetted by their nomination committee.

The committee is made up of lawyers appointed by Wyden, Merkley and Republican U.S. Rep. Greg Walden, who recommended Bounds for the vacancy. Each committee member ranked the candidates, and applicants with the highest combined scores received follow-up interviews. After the interviews, the candidates were ranked again.

The four names the committee forwarded to the White House on Monday for the 9th Circuit are: Bounds, Medford trial attorney Kelly Andersen, Portland appellate attorney Thomas Christ and Renata Gowie, an assistant U.S. attorney for the District of Oregon.

The committee also submitted four names to fill a judge's vacancy on the U.S. District Court: Gowie, Multnomah County Circuit Judge Karin Immergut, who was a former Oregon U.S. attorney, Portland defense attorney Karen O'Kasey and Wasco County Circuit Judge Janet Stauffer.

The senators, in their letter to White House counsel Don McGahn, wrote, "We are not endorsing or implying support for any particular nomination.'' They submitted the names as finalists for consideration by the White House.

Because the White House already nominated Bounds for the 9th Circuit, the senators said they won't return a so-called blue slip for Bounds.

The blue slip process is a Senate tradition. The Senate Judiciary Committee historically hasn't held confirmation hearings for potential judges without approval -- an actual blue slip -- from the candidate's home-state senators.

But in the last year, the current committee chair, Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, has scheduled hearings on nominees without the slips returned.

Bounds supporters and the senators have traded barbs about the timing and political implications of the Stanford Review articles and their release.

According to back-and-forth emails last fall, Bounds asked a staff member in Wyden's office how far back he should go when answering the questions on a written judicial questionnaire for the vacancy. The staff member responded that if the question didn't specify a timeframe, "going back as far as law school would be great.''

Bounds supporters asked then how the senators could accuse Bounds of withholding the controversial college writings based on the advice he received. Bounds, however, did end up, at the Justice Department's request, citing at least a handful of commentaries he wrote for The Stanford Review in the judicial questionnaire this year, including one titled, "Race Think: A Stanford Phenomenon?"

The senators defended their concerns.

"Applicants were asked directly during the committee interviews if there's anything in their background that the committee should know about that could become an issue in a confirmation process. They also were asked about promoting diversity,'' the senators said in a statement.

"The communication you're asking about was in response to Mr. Bounds' question about the written questionnaire. He and all applicants were asked directly during committee interviews about both potential confirmation issues as well as their records on diversity. He opted to volunteer information during those same committee interviews that went as far back as high school without ever raising his later college writings. Anything a candidate felt merited an apology after the fact should have been part of a timely response to the committee's interview."

-- Maxine Bernstein

mbernstein@oregonian.com

503-221-8212

@maxoregonianPortland cloud-computing startup Cedexis sold to computer networking titan Citrix Systems on Monday. The companies didn't report terms of the deal.

Cedexis has 77 employees, including 35 in Portland. Citrix said most employees will stay with the company following the deal, but said it couldn't say precisely how many will remain.

Founded in 2009, Cedexis had raised $33 million in venture capital, including a $22 million round in 2016. That's a sizable sum by the modest standards of Portland's startup scene. Backers included Citrix's investment arm.

Cedexis' technology monitors the performance of the internet so companies can route their online traffic most efficiently and most reliably. That's increasingly important as companies distribute their computing across data centers around the world. Clients include Comcast, Lenovo and Microsoft, among others.

"Cedexis extends our ability to provide customers with deeper real-time insight into network performance and enables intelligent traffic steering for applications in multi-cloud environments," Citrix chief product officer P.J. Hough said in a blog post announcing Monday's deal.

Cedexis employees had been split roughly evenly between its Portland headquarters and offices elsewhere, including a site in Paris.

Shares in Citrix were up 92 cents, 1.1 percent, early Monday at $86.67. The stock has traded between $80.20 and $95 in the past year.

This article has been updated with additional detail about the future for Cedexis' workforce.

-- Mike Rogoway; twitter: @rogoway; 503-294-7699As Jive Software's new owner winds down its Portland operation, Lithium Technologies is picking up the pieces.

Lithium, based in San Francisco, formally opened its downtown Portland outpost Monday. The company has hired close to 30 people since agreeing to buy a portion of Jive's business last summer; all but a handful are Jive alumni.

Lithium's new chief executive, Pete Hess, says the privately held company plans to hire as many as 45 more in Portland later this year.

"The goal is to grow his office, more than San Francisco," said Pete Hess, named Lithium's chief executive earlier this month.

Jive Software was once Portland's signature tech company, using social networking tools to connect businesses with their customers and to encourage communication among employees. It sold last year to an obscure Texas company called Aurea for $462 million.

Scores of Jive's Portland employees left following the deal and Aurea broke up the business, selling the Jive-x social marketing technology to Lithium. The deal didn't come with any employees, but Hess said they were natural fits for Lithium's new Portland office.'

"You've got a limited number of people in the world who are really expert in this digital customer engagement space," Hess said. Since many of those experts are Jive alumni, he said it made since to hire them for the Portland office.

Meanwhile, Aurea appears to be wrapping up its activity in Portland, where Jive was once the city's signature technology company. Jive's former downtown office, which once employed more than 200, now has just a few dozen, according to a former employee who recently visited the site. Aurea's lease on the old Jive building expires in September.

While Lithium has relied heavily on the Jive diaspora to staff its Portland thus far, Hess said the company expects to hire from across Portland's tech scene as it continues to grow.

"San Francisco is super expensive. It's hypercompetitive for engineers and staff," Hess said. "Portland has a great talent pool."

-- Mike Rogoway; twitter: @rogoway; 503-294-7699Many Americans assume their medical insurer is looking out for its bottom line more than its customers' health. Now the former medical director of the U.S.'s third-largest insurance company has provided some evidence to back up that assumption.

CNN reports that Dr. Jay Iinuma, who served as Aetna's medical director, said in a recent deposition that "he never looked at patients' records when deciding whether to approve or deny care."

Iinuma said he relied entirely on the recommendations of nurses who reviewed patient medical records. This, he said, was Aetna's established decision-making process.

The family physician admitted that he rarely even consulted with the nurses who reviewed patient records.

Dr. Arthur Caplan, a bioethics professor at NYU School of Medicine, expressed shock at this revelation.

"People desperate for care expect at least a fair review by the payer," Caplan told CNN. "This reeks of indifference to patients."

California's insurance commissioner, Dave Jones, has vowed to investigate Aetna's modus operandi, calling it "potentially a violation of law." Aetna insists it has done nothing wrong and says it looks forward to "explaining our clinical review process" to Jones.

 Read the CNN report.

-- Douglas PerryTessa Virtue and Scott Moir (AP)

Porno?

That was Scott Moir last month, when asked about the daring new up-thrust move he and partner Tessa Virtue were showcasing before the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics.

Virtue was a little more politic, calling it edgy.

We wanted to make a bit of a different statement, she said, and if that was bringing a certain edge or sexuality or darkness or a contemporary feeling to it, mission accomplished, I guess.

It was accomplished all too well, in fact. Britain's The Independent reported that Moir and Virtue "have been told to change their routine after it was deemed too 'suggestive' and 'edgy' to perform for global audiences."

Don't Edit

Associated Press

Canadian fans lamented the moral shackles put on their celebrated ice dancers.

"They put the sultry into ice dancing," wrote Toronto Star columnist Rosie DiManno last week. "But now they've downscaled from rated-X to PG."

To be sure, Moir and Virtues program would still make Mike Pence blush, reflecting, the Star wrote, a ripened, more mature tandem than the pair of bright-eyed innocents who captured Olympic judges hearts in 2010, when they won the ice-dancing gold medal in Vancouver.

Don't Edit

The new, ultra-risque move thats been scrubbed from the Pyeongchang Olympics involved Moir swinging Virtue onto his shoulders, where she straddles him, his face facing her crotch as she clasps her arms behind her head. The impressed DiManno described it as a kind of sex-chokehold.

Moir insisted the change wasnt forced upon them.

What it came down to actually was that when we slowed it down and looked on the video, it wasnt aesthetically that beautiful of a position, he said. So we wanted to change it, make it a little bit better.

Don't Edit

The Associated Press

The team unquestionably knows what works and what doesnt.

Moir and Virtue not only won gold in the ice-dancing event in Vancouver, they took silver four years ago in Sochi.

And Monday in South Korea they anchored Canada's gold-medal-winning performance in the team figure-skating event.

-- Douglas PerryTuesday 13 February 2018 11:26am



University of Otago research has shown that personality traits can impact those living with food allergies. Credit: Creative Commons.

University of Otago researchers have broken new ground in the area of food allergies, with a study showing that personality traits impact people living with a food allergy published in the international medical journal Frontiers in Psychology.

The interdisciplinary team of researchers from Otagos Department of Psychology (Dr Tamlin Conner) and the Department of Food Science (Dr Rana Peniamina, Dr Miranda Mirosa, and Professor Phil Bremer) wanted to investigate the challenges that adults with food allergies face managing their condition in daily life, and whether certain personality traits made these challenges even greater.



Dr Tamlin Conner.

Lead author Dr Tamlin Conner says This paper addresses this question by investigating whether individual differences in the big five personality traits (neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness) are related to food allergy-related problems in everyday life.

For two weeks, 108 adult participants with a physician-diagnosed food allergy completed a daily online survey that queried the occurrence of 25 food allergy issues each day and their stress and mood. Dr Conner says the findings went against the research teams hypothesis.

We were surprised that neuroticism did not lead to more frequent allergy issues or poorer mood on days with more allergy issues. Instead, higher openness to experience was the biggest predictor of more issues, which included going hungry because there is no safe food available, problems finding suitable foods when grocery shopping, anxiety at social occasions involving food, being excluded, and feeling embarrassed and poorly understood about their food allergy.

It appears the demands of coping with a food allergy  requiring caution, routine and consumption of known foods  might be in direct conflict with the open personality that craves exploration, variety and novel experiences, Dr Conner adds.

She hopes the findings will help people understand how their personality affects the way they cope and manage their food allergy.

For example, open people could try to channel their desire for variety in other directions instead of food, like music or film. They could also have back-up food available in case they wanted to do something spontaneous. Our findings might also help parents understand how their child with a food allergy may be being impacted. For example, open children might be more likely to want to try new foods, which could put them at risk. Knowing their childs personality, a parent could look to mitigate those impacts to reduce their frequency."

National charitable organisation Allergy New Zealand says food allergy can create significant burden for many people, and welcomes the study bringing further knowledge to the condition.

It [the study] highlights the complexities facing adults managing food allergy, in a New Zealand context, as well also from a unique perspective. Helping people understand how their personality traits might help or hinder their management of food allergy, could improve their quality of life, says Mark Dixon, Chief Executive of Allergy New Zealand.

Additional commentary (provided by Allergy New Zealand):

Solid prevalence data on food allergy in New Zealand is not available, however based on international estimates it is likely to be around 5% of the population overall, with higher rates in children under 5 years (up to 10%). Data also indicates food allergies have been increasing in prevalence over the last 20-30 years. Hospital admissions for food-induced anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction) have also increased, with admissions in children increasing a near 3-fold in the 10 years to 2015; and 1.7 fold in adults in a similar time frame.

The study published in Frontiers in Psychology can be found here.

A brief video with Dr Tamlin Conner is available to download here: FoodAllergyWM2.mov (155.9 MB)

Test your personality: https://psychcentral.com/quizzes/personality-test/

For further comment please contact:



Dr Tamlin Conner

University of Otago

Department of Psychology

Phone: +64 3 479 7624

Email: tconner@psy.otago.ac.nz

Mark Dixon

Allergy New Zealand

Phone: +64 9 623 3912

Email: ceo@allergy.org.nz



Mark Hathaway

Senior Communications Adviser

University of Otago

Cell: +64 21 279 5016

Email: mark.hathaway@otago.ac.nz

A list of Otago experts available for media comment is available elsewhere on this website.

Electronic addresses (including email accounts, instant messaging services, or telephone accounts) published on this page are for the sole purpose of contact with the individuals concerned, in their capacity as officers, employees or students of the University of Otago, or their respective organisation. Publication of any such electronic address is not to be taken as consent to receive unsolicited commercial electronic messages by the address holder.BEIJING, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- China's Su-35 fighter jets for a joint combat patrol mission in the South China Sea area and its latest J-20 stealth fighters' commission in combat service will maintain airspace safety in the new era, a military expert said Saturday.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force announced on Wednesday that China has recently sent Su-35 fighter jets for a joint combat patrol mission in the South China Sea area.

The deployment is expected to improve the air force's adaptive capacity in complicated situation in the air and on the sea, and enhance its ability to maintain national sovereignty and security and maritime interests in the South China Sea area, said Wang Mingzhi, a professor with the PLA Air Force Command Academy.

The patrol mission is an annual training of combat readiness, embodying the air force's resolution to implement mission in the new era and firmly maintain national sovereignty and security and maritime interests, Wang said in an interview with Xinhua.

The air force will further increase real combat training on the sea and enhance the real combat capability especially under long-distance and high-sea conditions, he said.

Wang said that the air force will often carry out patrol missions and normalize the patrol in the South China Sea area.

On Friday, the air force also announced that China's latest J-20 stealth fighters have been commissioned into air force combat service.

The J-20 signals that China's air force has greatly increased its ability to deal with new security threats in airspace, and made steady progress in the aero equipment system, Wang said.

The stealth jets will enable the air force to improve ability to tackle conventional threat and enhance real combat capacity, he added.

The J-20 is China's fourth-generation medium and long-range fighter jet. It made its maiden flight in 2011 and was first shown to the public at the 11th Airshow China in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, in November 2016.

The fighters made their parade debut when the PLA marked its 90th anniversary in July 2017 at Zhurihe military training base in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.A Chinese peacekeeper in the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) was searching for idle mines scattered along the UN Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon on Feb 5, 2018. [Photo/Xinhua]

YAROUN, Lebanon - More than 6,000 kilometers away from his home and family, 25-year-old Li Junying waked up at 6 am in southern Lebanon and prepared to search for idle mines scattered along the United Nations Blue Line.

Unable to speak a word of Arabic, Li has no personal connection to the small Levantine country or its contentious neighbor Israel. Nonetheless, he is one of more than 400 members of the Chinese military deployed as UN peacekeepers responsible for overseeing calm in the sensitive area by the Mediterranean sea.

Officially known as the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, UNIFIL was established by the UN Security Council on March 19, 1978 to oversee the withdrawal of the Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon. The international peacekeeping presence is deployed near the UN demarcated "Blue Line" separating the two countries.

Following three more Israeli invasions in 1982, 2000 and finally 2006, UNIFIL updated its mandate significantly increasing the number of peacekeepers and their responsibilities in the conflict zone.

The Chinese battalion of UN peacekeepers (CHINBATT) were part of the expansions, officially establishing itself in Lebanon on March 31, 2006. While battalions used to rotate about every eight months, troops are now stationed a year in the foreign country before returning to their home.

As a representative of China in CHINBATT, Sergeant Li and about 60 other men (some only 22-year-old) are tasked specifically to disarm over half a million mines left by Israel.

The majority of these fatal devices are densely packed along the southern border. Following the Israeli withdrawal in 2006, mines and cluster munitions have resulted in over 200 deaths and hundreds of more injuries.

"I was scared at first," Li admitted while recounting his first day in the field.

"Even though we were trained in China and (Lebanon), it's normal to be a little afraid. Everyone is at first, but there is a lot of supervision."

Despite his young age, Li is currently serving his second mission in southern Lebanon. He first arrived in 2013 when he was also tasked to clear the land of explosives.

Sitting next to him, 29-year-old Sergeant Jin Wei, who is on his third rotation in Lebanon, nodded his head.

"My parents were worried when I told them what I was doing," Jin told Xinhua.

"But we work very carefully and don't make mistakes."

Lieutenant Colonel Luo Qiang, the head supervisor of CHINBATT's demining team laughed in agreement.

"The Chinese are special," he said proudly noting CHINBATT's clear record of any accidents and injuries since the beginning of their work in 2006.

"We work professionally and we never make mistakes."

A Chinese peacekeeper in the UNIFIL discovered a mine buried underground along the UN Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon, on Feb 5, 2018. [Photo/Xinhua]

Mohammad Rida, a member of the Lebanese Armed Forces tasked to work alongside CHINBATT agreed.

"The Chinese are extremely professional, they work hard and they do a good job."

The task is not easy, and requires meticulous attention to detail. According to maps provided by Israel, the peacekeepers are given rough locations on the whereabouts of mines. Yet weather elements, animals, and people are all capable of unintentionally moving their positions.

"This is why we don't work when it rains," Luo said. "It makes it dangerous when the soil gets wet and the mines can potentially slide around."

Waking up nearly at dawn, they drive to the site about an hour away from the CHINBATT base less than a kilometer away from Israel. Upon arrival, they begin working in sections using a range of tools including larger mine detectors, hand shovels and small brushes to clear away dirt, stones and shrubbery in the area.

After mines are discovered in each section, CHINBATT then informs higher supervisors in UNIFIL who communicate with both the Lebanese Armed Forces and Israeli Army to inform them of planned explosions.

Once approval is received, TNT explosives are wired to each area with found mines and carefully exploded to deactivate the device.

"The work we do is difficult. It requires such precise attention and it is dangerous, but we are honored to be granted such a task and represent China in doing so," Luo told Xinhua.

A Chinese peacekeeper in the UNIFIL was carefully clearing the dirt covering a land mine planted along the UN Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon, on Feb 5, 2018. [Photo/Xinhua]

UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Michael Beary commended the contingent their progress and dedication in a visit to the site.

"The Blue Line is such a sensitive issue to both countries, and it's a strategic issue. And your work is helping to ensure that it doesn't become tense and that we can use the Blue Line as a reference. So everything you do is important. It's very valuable work. I really am proud of what you do here," he said during the visit according to a UNIFIL press release.

While demining is arguably the most important task assigned to the Chinese, it is far from the only activities they are responsible for completing on their mission. Other peacekeepers in the battalion are assigned humanitarian work and construction projects. Such efforts have included providing medical assistance and building roads for local residents.

Such responsibilities so far from home also come with their sacrifices. For the hundreds of peacekeepers, the year spent abroad far from home brings loneliness. Luckily, in the age of the internet, communication is only prevented by the time difference.

While on break, the CHINBATT members could be seen talking to family members over chat app WeChat, waving to children and wives across the ocean.

"When I go home, the first thing I do is see my children and wife," Luo Qiang said smiling. "And of course, I eat my favorite Chinese foods."Back when cell phones had antennae, banana clips clasped the locks of every sticker book-toting tween and office-dwelling adult. That relic of '80s-'90s nostalgia  the perfect no-fuss hair accessory  resurfaced a few days ago at Alexander Wang's Fall '18 runway show. Models strode through a cubicle-lined runway, their hair tightly fastened with the silver "ALEXANDER WANG" emblazoned claw clips.



"This is Alexander Wang's take on the power woman. It's inspired by the '80s, when we first saw female empowerment in the office," said hairstylist Guido Palau backstage. "At that point, they were kind of new, and then they had a bad connotation we're sort of seeing them again through a different eye."

Slicked-back hairdos elevated the sleek silhouettes and severe looks on Wang's runway, an edgy take on the modern CEO/HBIC and an appeal to stylish comfort. Following closely behind fellow emblems of feminine confidence  the scrunchie and the choker  the banana clip trend-to-be has long been in the works and under our nose. Consider Jennifer Lopez's effortless up-do in 2011. That same year, Tina Fey's character on 30 Rock, an amusingly neurotic television writer named Liz Lemon, reinvented the hairstyle by pulling her hair back with a chip clip.

Thus paving the way for actress and American sweetheart Kristen Bell to don a banana clip on the red carpet last year. Shortly after Bell's mix of couture and comfort, Miguel released his album, War & Leisure, which includes the song, "Banana Clip." Coincidence?

I think not.

Photo via GettySRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A paramilitary troop belonging to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was wounded Monday in a fierce gunfight with militants in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said.

The gunfight broke out at Karan Nagar locality of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

"A paramilitary troop of CRPF was wounded fighting militants today here," Rajesh Yadav, Srinagar based spokesman of CRPF told Xinhua. "The area has been cordoned off and gunfight is underway."

The wounded CRPF man has been shifted to hospital for treatment.

Yadav said early in the morning at around 4:30 a.m. local time paramilitary troops in the locality repulsed a suicide attack bid.

"Our alert men at the camp witnessed some suspicious movement outside and challenged the suspects by opening fire. However, the duo fled away," Yadav said. "Later on during the searches in the locality, search party came under fire triggering a gunfight."

The militants believed to be two have taken refuge inside a building behind CRPF camp in the locality.

The attack came hours after culmination of gunfight inside a military camp in Jammu.

At least nine people, five army troopers, a civilian and three militants, were killed in a two-day long stand-off inside a military camp, which was stormed Saturday morning.

A guerrilla war is going on between militants and Indian troops stationed in the region since 1989.

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.Economist, Professor Peter Quartey has cautioned that the country could return to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), for financial support if government fails to control its expenditure during the 2020 elections.



He explains that the unbridled spending associated with most election years have affected the running of the economy in the succeeding years.



Prof. Quarteys comments come on the back of the assurance by President Akufo Addo that his administration will not see the country seek support from the Fund after ending the current program.



Addressing Parliament during the presentation of the State of the Nation on Thursday- February 8, 2018, the President stressed that he should achieve this aim by fostering the economic gains made over the last one year.



If you look at our history, it looks like we are able to manage the economy very well until we get to elections; it is in election years that we have a problem. When we were with the Fund, even approaching the elections in 2016, we saw some very decent figures. But then three months into the following year, we realized that we had lost that control, Prof. Peter Quartey told Citi Business News.



The Head of the Economics department at the University of Ghana further suggested that successive governments commit to achieving set economic goals within their four or eight-year mandate as may be the case.



It is being prudent during election years; whatever we want to do, we must realize that every government has a four-year mandate. As such, they should be able to manage and complete all prioritized projects within the time period, he added.



Ghana agreed to an Extended Credit Facility (ECF) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2015.



Under the agreement, the Fund is expected to provide Ghana with some financial assistance to the tune of 918 million dollars.



This is to be disbursed under eight tranches.



The aim of the ECF is to ensure fiscal stability, reduce budget overrun and restore macroeconomic stability.



The agreement, initially planned to end in 2018, has since been extended to be completed with the budget cycle and it will end in April 2019.

Source: citibusinessnews.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured VideoAviation industry authorities have disclosed to Citi Business News the new Terminal three (3) project at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) will be completed by April 2018.



This is one month earlier than the initial completion scheduled date of May 2018.



According to the Ghana Airports Company Limited, the Terminal, when completed, will process about 5 million passengers annually.



This will be a vast increase from the 2 million passengers currently being processed at the Terminal Two.



It is a much larger airport, more modern, highly computerized and modern day state of the art facilities. We expect to be able to handle five million passengers per anum. Currently, we are doing just about two million at terminal two so this is going to be a much bigger terminal, Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), John Attafuah said.



He further disclosed that the edifice will be able to enclose about 1,600 passengers hourly.



It is projected that at this peak, it can process over a 1,600 passengers in an hour.



Mr. John Attafuah further told Citi Business News the terminal will bring convenience to travelers.



Now we will have what we call a passenger boarding bridge which means there is a bridge connecting the terminal building to the aircraft.



The Terminal three project is partly funded by the African Development Bank with the aim of easing pressure on the existing two terminals.



The expansion project is estimated at 274 million dollars.



It includes a $120 million loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB) making it the first private sector investment by the bank in Ghanas transport sector.









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured VideoGovernment has announced plans to install Closed-Circuit Televisions (CCTVs) at police stations spread across all 216 districts in the country.



Vice President, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia announced the initiative as part of efforts to retool the Police Service and enhance security at police posts.



The promise follows reports of heightened attacks on personnel of the police service.



A gang of criminals recently attacked the Kwabenya District Police Headquarters, killing the officer on duty, and freeing some seven remand prisoners.



The incident raised concerns about safety at police posts, with many criticising the government for failing to adequately equip the Service.



Current figures show that from 2016 to January 2018, 17 police officers have lost their lives in the line of duty.



The total number of police deaths from 2013 to date stands at 48.



Negotiations have just been completed for the rollout of Phase 2 of the Alpha Project which will involve the deployment of 8,700 CCTV cameras in all 216 districts with three command centres in Accra, Kumasi and Tamale. In line with our plans to equip the Police better, at least 1,000 new vehicles will be procured for the service this year.



Already two hundred pick-up vehicles have been allocated with two hundred salon vehicles to be delivered in six weeks time with more to come, the Vice President promised when he delivered a speech on behalf of President Nana Akufo-Addo at a ceremony to pass out new Police Cadets.



The Vice President did not, however, give timelines for the implementation of the initiative to install the CCTVs.



Government has also announced plans to allocate GH800 million to the Police Service to boost their operations.

Source: JFM/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured VideoA mystery snake is said to have sneaked into the accounts office of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, in Makurdi, the Benue State capital and made away with N36 million cash.



Before now, JAMB candidates purchased scratch cards from JAMB state offices and other designated centers, to gain access to the Boards website for either registration or to check their admission status but the reforms introduced by JAMB registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, recommended an end to the use of scratch cards.



A team of auditors was dispatched to different state offices of JAMB to take inventory of the sold and unsold scratch cards and recover whatever money that might have either been generated or mismanaged during the period of the sale of scratch cards.



On their visit to Makurdi office of JAMB, a sales clerk, Philomina Chieshe, told JAMB registrar and his team that she could not account for N36 million she made in previous years before the abolition of scratch cards.



In the course of interrogation, Philomena confessed that it was her housemaid that connived with another JAMB staff, Joan Asen, to spiritually steal the money from the vault in the accounts office.



She said: I was one of the four sales clerks attached to JAMB office in Makurdi. My responsibility was to sell scratch cards to candidates and not involved in handling the revenues. It was the responsibility of Joan Asen and my other senior colleagues. I only remit money when am done selling the cards.



Few months ago, there was issue of fraud in the Makurdi office. Auditors were sent from Abuja to carefully flip the record books of the office, to perhaps, ascertain the current state of affairs.



The state Coordinator, Obilo, was not around when the audit team came. But in the course of the audit, N36 million was discovered to have been missing from the account. An investigation was launched. In the course of the investigation, it was discovered that Joan Asen, who is account staff and a lady outside JAMB have connived to steal the money.



Philomina in her confessional statement said that Joan Asen and her accomplices confessed that they have been stealing the money spiritually through a mysterious snake that always sneak into the office to swallow the money from the vault.



According to her It was a mystery to me too. I have been saving the money in the bank, but I found it difficult to account for it. So I started saving it in a vault in the office. But each time I open the vault, I will find nothing. I became worried and surprised how the millions of Naira could be disappearing from the vault. I began to interrogate everybody in the house and office, and no one could agree on what might have happened to the money. I continued to press until my housemaid confessed. She said that the money disappeared spiritually.



She said that a mysterious snake sneaked into the house and swallowed the money in the vault.







Source: Daily Post Nigeria









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured VideoWhere China-US relations go will have a bearing on not just the bilateral relations between the two major powers, but also the stability of the entire world. As such, there is enough reason for the international community to show concern about the United States plan to send Marine Expeditionary Units to East Asia as part of its efforts to contain China.

It is hard not to see a close association between what the US has said about China in the past couple of months and its plan to deploy the marine units in East Asia. In its National Security Strategy released in December, the Donald Trump administration listed China and Russia as the biggest challenge to US power. Not long after that, US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis released the US National Defense Strategy, which stated that great power competition, not terrorism, is now the primary focus of US national security.

What is even more worrying is that the US is making its case about the threat from China by pointing fingers at Beijings efforts to build military outposts in South China Sea and its military exercises around Taiwan.

Despite the reiteration by China on many occasions that what China has done in the South China Sea is in defense in its own territorial waters and poses no threat to the freedom of navigation, the US still cites it as an excuse for its stronger military presence in the waters. As far as Taiwan is concerned, the island is part of China, and Beijing has every reason to do whatever it believes appropriate.

In addition, the US has turned a blind eye to the fact that China has been working with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to successfully ease tensions in the South China Sea.

It seems as though a Cold War mentality is shaping the Trump administrations China policy, which will be detrimental to China-US relations and inevitably to regional stability and world peace at large.

With China now the US largest trade partner and the US the second-largest trade partner of China, what both countries have achieved economically and politically over the past several decades is the result of their joint efforts to manage their differences.

If the US acts on the belief that China is a rival rather than a partner and continues to try and contain China, it will only increase the tensions and uncertainties.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.Officers and men of the Ghana Police Service have been admonished to resist the temptation to tie their destinies to the fortunes of political parties or to the ruling party of the day, as they have a unique role in safeguarding the integrity of the nation.



According to the President, a highly professional Police Service capable of discharging its duty without fear or favour would guarantee the safety of all citizens and foster national unity and cohesion.



The Vice President of the Republic, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, gave the admonition when he read a speech on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at the 47th Cadet Officers Graduation Parade at the National Police Training School at Tesano, Accra on Friday February 9, 2018.



In all, 132 Cadet Officers were commissioned to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police.



Ladies and gentlemen, it is in everybodys interest that the Police Service retains the neutrality and professionalism guaranteed under the Constitution. Governments have term limits, and in a multi-party democracy, parties win and lose power.



It is good for the health of the nation that this is so. And it is precisely for this reason that the Police Service should not tie its well-being or otherwise to the fortunes of political parties nor to the ruling party of the day. Doing so undermines your integrity, your professionalism, and puts all of us at risk in the long run the President admonished.



As President, and together with you, the leadership of the Ghana Police Service, we must ensure that the Police Service is left to focus on its core mandate, and not be an appendage of the ruling party. I envisage a Police Service that goes about its duty of protecting ordinary citizens confident that there will be no interference from the powers that be.



Government, the President said, would do all in its power to provide the necessary logistics and resources to the Ghana Police Service to enable it discharge its duties, especially in the wake of reports of lawlessness and mob violence. Practical support, such as rehabilitation and equipping of police stations across the country to standardize the infrastructure, as well as protective gear, guns and ammunition would soon receive prominent attention.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured VideoThe rumble of more than 100 motorcycles gave way to a solemn occasion as members of the Pagans Motorcycle Club rolled into eastern Pennsylvania to bid goodbye to one of their own.

As our sister website, LehighValleyLive.com, reports, the biker club gathered Saturday in Northampton Borough to say goodbye to longtime member Ronald S. "Rocky" Bedics Jr., who died Monday at St. Luke's University Health Network at the age of 64. No cause of death was given in his obituary.

A Facebook post on the death of Pagans Motorcycle Club member Ronald S. "Rocky" Bedics Jr. at age 54.

The Saturday morning reception at Schisler Funeral Home turned into ground central for more than 100 mourning Pagans members.

And later, the motorcycle club escorted the hearse and funeral procession to Bedics' final resting place.

Background from LehighValleyLive.com:

Bedics was also a member of the Pennsylvania Federation of Injured Workers, whose activities include raising money to help those who get hurt on the job.

He was a graduate of Whitehall High School and had worked in construction.

He leaves behind his father, Ronald S. Bedics Sr.; companion Barbara English; two daughters, Stephanie Buendia and Cassandra Bedics; sisters Tracy Stratz, Tammy Leadbetter, Terry Bedics and Tia Talianek; as well as nieces and nephews.

The Pagans got their start in Maryland in 1959.It's not often that a police report reads like a scene from a horror movie, but this one does.

According to TribLive.com in Pittsburgh, a 40-year-old woman in western Pennsylvania found the words "I WAS HERE" scrawled in permanent marker inside her first-floor shower.

The disturbing discovery was made following a break-in at the woman's Armstrong County home at about 7:30 p.m. Thursday.

Pa. state police are investigating.

Trooper Joshua Osche tells TribLive.com that they have interviewed at least one man known by the victim. However, he is not a suspect at this time.

Osche would not disclose the relationship between the two in order to protect the woman's identity.

"We're taking a look at if it was even possible he could have done it," Osche told TribLive.

Meanwhile, the investigation continues, and the motive behind the shower message hasn't been determined.By Wallace McKelvey | WMckelvey@pennlive.com

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Body and Soul, the 1925 film by pioneering African-American director Oscar Micheaux, marked the film debut of singer and civil rights icon Paul Robeson.

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Movies hold a mirror up to the culture of their time.

Not too long ago, the only black faces most moviegoing audiences saw onscreen were criminals, servants and slaves. That reflected the prejudice rooted in American culture as well as the politics of Hollywood where, until the last 25 years or so, it was all but impossible for black filmmakers to tell their own stories.

In the last decade, black directors helmed two Best Picture Oscar winners, 12 Years a Slave and Moonlight. Next month, two othersJordan Peele's Get Out and Dee Rees' Mudboundwill compete in multiple categories. Those films will be joined by two of this year's most anticipated blockbusters: Ava DuVernay's big-budget adaptation of A Wrinkle in Time and Ryan Coogler's Black Panther, the first Marvel superhero movie with a largely black cast and director.

This Black History Month, we look back to the trailblazing films that brought us here and their pioneering filmmakers, many of whom toiled in obscurity and defied the odds to have their voices heard. For the purposes of this list, were limiting selections to films by African-American directors, producers and screenwriters. Most of them are available on home video or streaming platforms. All are worth your time.

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WITHIN OUR GATES

(1920, Oscar Micheaux)

On Netflix streaming, DVD and Blu-Ray (Pioneers of African American Cinema collection).

Oscar Micheaux, who started out as a novelist, founded his own publishing company to circumvent the racist gatekeepers of his day. Eventually, he parlayed his growing wealth into a movie studio, creatingamong many othersthis compelling rebuke of D.W. Griffith's The Birth of a Nation. Griffith's technologically groundbreaking film, which glorified the Ku Klux Klan, became cultural phenomenon upon its release in 1915 and even screened for President Woodrow Wilson at the White House. Micheaux's film follows a young woman who leaves the Jim Crow South in order to raise money for a school back home. Within Our Gates, which was restored from a single print in 1993, is believed to be the earliest surviving film by an African-American director.

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BODY AND SOUL

(1925, Oscar Micheaux)

On Netflix streaming, DVD and Blu-Ray (Pioneers of African American Cinema collection).

Micheaux was an incredibly prolific filmmaker, producing some 44 feature films and short subjects across three decadesalthough few of them ever played to white audiences. Body and Soul, along with a number of his films, is also available to stream instantly via Netflix. It marked the film debut of singer and civil rights icon Paul Robeson, one of the first stars to cross the cultural divide, who played an escaped prisoner who comes to a Georgia town in the guise of a preacher and falls in love with a local girl. It was initially rejected by film censors in New York state because its plot would "tend to incite to crime."

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HELLBOUND TRAIN

(1930, James and Eloyce Gist)

On Netflix streaming, DVD and Blu-Ray (Pioneers of African American Cinema collection).

Hellbound Train isn't a good film per se but it's a fascinating time capsule in much the same way Reefer Madness is. (If you haven't seen that anti-marijuana flick, go seek it out as well. It's a hoot!) Director James Gist and his wife Eloyce were Christian evangelists who brought their message movies to black churches around the D.C. area. In this one, any number of sinssuch as gamblingwill book you a ticket on the titular train. As the first title card explains: "The hell-bound train is always on duty, and the devil is the engineer." Long considered a "lost film," it was rediscovered and restored by a Howard University professor in the 1990s.

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DIRTY GERTIE FROM HARLEM U.S.A.

(1946, Spencer Williams)

On Netflix streaming, DVD and Blu-Ray (Pioneers of African American Cinema collection).

Spencer Williams was best known for playing Andy on The Amos 'n' Andy Show (very much a product of its time) but he'd been directing films for more than a decade before his television breakthrough. This film features a vivacious performance by Francine Everett, a glamorous leading lady who built a career in so-called "race films," as a carefree woman who leaves New York to carouse on a Caribbean island.

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FOR LOVE OF IVY

(1968, Daniel Mann)

On DVD.

Sidney Poitier was a groundbreaking figure. He certainly wasn't the first black movie star but he was among the first to break out of the stereotyped roles offered his predecessors. For Love of Ivy marked his first effort behind the camera. While Poitier didn't direct the film, he wrote the story and leveraged his fame to get it made by a major studio. There are fascinating racial dynamics are at play here: When Ivy, played by jazz vocalist Abbey Lincoln, announces she plans to leave her job as maid to a wealthy white family to go back to school, the teenagers she's helped raise hatch a plan to set her up with a cosmopolitan businessman, played by Poitier, who's an acquaintance of their parents.

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THE LEARNING TREE

(1969, Gordon Parks)

On DVD; for rent on Google Play and Vudu.

Gordon Parks is probably best known as a photojournalist responsible for some of the most memorable images of the civil rights era. He was also the man behind Shaft, arguably the most famous of the Blaxploitation films. His best film, however, was this thoughtful coming-of-age story set in 1920s Kansas and full of the kind of visual beauty you'd expect from one of America's best photographers.

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SWEET SWEETBACK'S BAAD ASSSSS SONG

(1971, Melvin Van Peebles)

On DVD, Amazon Prime and Fandor streaming

Van Peebles' career, starting as a writer and quickly veering into filmmaking, is a fascinating one. Sweetback is his most famous work, the film that launched a decade of Blaxploitation flicks with outrageous antiheroes (Sweetback, played by Van Peebles, is a hustler) and hyper-stylized visuals. These films were very much a product of the growing black power movement of their time. For something completely different, check out Van Peeble's first film, 1968's Story of a Three-Day Pass, a low-key character study about a black soldier on leave that would fit comfortably in a double bill with auteurs like Francois Truffaut or Agnes Varda.

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LADY SINGS THE BLUES

(1972, Sidney J. Furie)

On DVD.

Motown founder Berry Gordy was the driving force behind this glossy, big budget star vehicle for Diana Ross, who earned an Oscar nomination for her role as hard-living jazz singer Billie Holiday. In many ways, Gordy was a trailblazer, who used his position as a music mogul to become one of the first black producers in Hollywood. Three years later, he would step up as director of Mahogany, another (far less successful) musical with Motown's brightest star.

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GANJA & HESS

(1973, Bill Gunn)

On Amazon Prime and Epix streaming and DVD.

For decades, this bonkers vampire movie, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, was all but impossible to see. Playwright Bill Gunn, who died in 1989, has experienced a renaissance of sorts in recent years, thanks to the rise of streaming video and a 2014 remake of this film by Spike Lee. Like so many aspiring black directors of the era, Gunn found work wherever he couldmostly as a writeras he struggled to secure the funding for another film.

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KILLER OF SHEEP

(1977, Charles Burnett)

On DVD and Blu-ray.

Killer of Sheep is a flat-out masterpiece. Working on a shoestring budget, director Charles Burnett's film follows a slaughterhouse worker earning a meager living for his family in the Watts section of Los Angeles. This, of course, is the neighborhood made famous by the riots of 1965 and 1992. Killer of Sheep tells the story of a family and, on that micro level, makes an important political statement just the same.

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ASHES AND EMBERS

(1982, Haile Gerima)

On Netflix streaming and DVD.

Haile Gerima, an Ethiopia-born filmmaker who moved to California to attend UCLA in 1970, came out of the same movement of young directors as Charles Burnett. In fact, Burnett worked as cinematographer on one of Gerima's earlier films. Ashes and Embers isn't as visually striking as Killer of Sheep but this story of a black Vietnam vet struggling to adjust to life back home feels just as vital.

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HOLLYWOOD SHUFFLE

(1987, Robert Townsend)

On Amazon Prime streaming, DVD and Blu-ray; for rent on Apple and Google Play.

Hollywood Shuffle's wry humor is grounded in a reality felt as acutely in 2017 as it was in 1987. Filmmaker Robert Townsend wrote its screenplay after being told by one white casting director after another that he wasn't black enough. In the film, Bobby Taylor (played by Townsend) dreams of playing Rambo or reciting Shakespeare. In real life, he has to settle for "Jivetime Jimmy's Revenge."

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BOYZ N THE HOOD

(1991, John Singleton)

On DVD and Blu-ray; for rent on Apple, Google Play and Vudu.

John Singletons debut film is a compelling and compassionate portrait of South Central L.A., which played such a pivotal role in the pop culture of the early 90s. This is an unflinching epic story of friendship and family that feels just as important today. Singleton became the first African-American to be nominated for a Best Director Oscar.

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DAUGHTERS OF THE DUST

(1991, Julie Dash)

On DVD and Blu-ray; Netflix streaming; for rent on Vudu

So much of the DNA of Beyonce's lush visual album Lemonade can be traced to Julie Dash's dreamlike story of three generations of Gullah women on an island off the Georgia coast. Daughters of the Dust is a perfect gem of a film, its dreamlike visuals perfectly capturing the emotions of a family in flux. Beyonce (or perhaps the team around her) clearly has good taste. It's time for you to discover it, too.

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MALCOLM X

(1992, Spike Lee)

On DVD and Blu-ray; for rent on Apple and Vudu.

Many of Spike Lee's films could just as easily be included on this list but his masterpiece, at least to this writer, is Malcolm X. It's a film that spoke as forcefully to the past as it did to its present and still speaks to the world in which we live today. From the opening credits, which cut between the Rodney King beating against Denzel Washington's delivery of Malcolm's words, it's clear that this film has something to say.

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DEVIL IN A BLUE DRESS

(1995, Carl Franklin)

On DVD and Blu-ray; Sundance Now streaming; for rent on Apple and Vudu.

Carl Franklin's adaptation of the first of Walter Mosley's Easy Rawlins mysteries is fun. If this were a just world, Devil in a Blue Dress would have garnered the same level of acclaim and box office that L.A. Confidential enjoyed two years later and led to a whole Easy Rawlins franchise. Denzel Washington was at his swaggering best in the lead role and Don Cheadle turned in one of the most memorable performances of his career. Alas, we only have this one moviebut what a movie it is!

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WAITING TO EXHALE

(1995, Forest Whitaker)

On DVD; for rent on Apple, Google Play and Vudu.

Waiting to Exhale never got the recognition it deserved. It is, frankly, a compulsively watchable film that contains one of the most iconic (and most frequently ripped off) images of the '90sthat of a jilted Angela Bassett walking away after setting fire to all of her ex-husbands possessions. Adapted from a bestselling Terry McMillan novel, it also provedonce againthat a film with an all-black cast could be enormously profitable and helped lay the groundwork for the phenomenon that is Tyler Perry.

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MISSISSIPPI DAMNED

(2009, Tina Mabry)

On Netflix streaming.

After playing a few film festivals in 2009, this meditation on the internal conflicts and external pressures faced by one black family across two decades basically disappeared. No theatrical release, no home video, no on demand. It finally resurfaced, thanks to Netflix, in 2015. The film itself is a marvel, bolstered by stunning cinematography and strong performances by its ensemble of newcomers (Tessa Thompson has a key role) and familiar character actors.

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I WILL FOLLOW

(2010, Ava DuVernay)

On DVD; for rent on Apple and Vudu.

Ava DuVernay is now something of a brand unto herself. Selma, her recounting of MLK's voting rights marches, was up for the Best Picture Oscar in 2015 and later this year she'll helm a big-budget adaptation of the children's classic A Wrinkle in Time. But all her talents were on display in I Will Follow, a super low-budget indie about a woman packing away her recently deceased aunt's possessions. It's a deeply intimate, specific kind of story that at once feels universal.

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PARIAH

(2011, Dee Rees)

On DVD and Blu-ray; Netflix streaming; for rent on Apple and Vudu.

The comparisons to Moonlight, last year's surprise Oscar winner, are perhaps inevitable. If that gets more people to watch Dee Rees' masterful LGBT coming-of-age drama, fair enough, but Pariah should be judged on its own merits. Rees, the talent behind last year's Mudbound, brings nuance and sensitivity to this story of a young black girl's coming out. There's heartbreak here and joy, as well.

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FRUITVALE STATION

(2013, Ryan Coogler)

On Netflix streaming, DVD and Blu-ray.

Coogler's career will likely reach the stratosphere after Black Panther opens on Feb. 16. And he's already breathed new life into the Rocky franchise with 2015's Creed. But it's worth revisiting Fruitvale Station, the low-budget docudrama where he cut his teeth. It recounts the last day in the life of Oscar Grant, an unarmed black man shot dead in a California transit station in 2009. Coogler brought a restraint to the story that made it all the more tragic.

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Landmark films by non-African-American filmmakers

The reality is that for decades black filmmakers could not get a seat at the table in Hollywood. Thats why so many films on the list above were independent productions, shot on shoestring budgets with little in the way of distribution. Here are some landmark films starring black actors from white filmmakers or black directors from around the world.

THE FLYING ACE (1926, Richard E. Norman)Romance between two African American pilots, one a WWI fighter pilot, at a time when black pilots were barred from military service.

IMITATION OF LIFE (1934, John M. Stahl)An otherwise conventional melodrama (remade in 1959) that includes a subplot involving a young black woman (played affectingly by Fredi Washington) passing as white.

SHOW BOAT (1936, James Whale)Paul Robeson's most famous role, in an adaptation of the Hammerstein musical.

CABIN IN THE SKY (1943, Vincente Minnelli)Landmark musical that helped launch the film career of Lena Horne.

NO WAY OUT (1950, Joseph L. Mankiewicz)Sidney Poitier delivers a searing performance in his first starring role, as a black doctor who must treat two racist criminals.

CARMEN JONES (1954, Otto Preminger)Another Hammerstein musical that featured iconic roles for Dorothy Dandridge and Harry Belafonte. Dandridge became the first African American nominated for a lead actress Oscar.

THE DEFIANT ONES (1958, Stanley Kramer)A major hit film about two escapees, one white and one black, from a chain gang. Poitier became the first African American nominated for a lead actor Oscar.

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A RAISIN IN THE SUN (1961, Daniel Petrie)The big-screen adaptation of Lorraine Hansberry's landmark play about a poor black family's plan to move to the white suburbs of Chicago.

NOTHING BUT A MAN (1964, Michael Roemer)A love story, starring Abbey Lincoln of For Love of Ivy, set in a racist small town in Alabama.

BLACK GIRL (1966, Ousmane Sembene)Senegalese filmmaker Ousmane Sembene follows a young woman who travels to Europe looking for a better life.

GUESS WHO'S COMING TO DINNER (1967, Stanley Kramer)The first major Hollywood film to depict an interracial romantic relationshipand very much a product of its time.

THE COLOR PURPLE (1985, Steven Spielberg)Spielberg adapts Alice Waker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that covers four decades in the life of an African-American woman dealing with abuse and bigotry in the South.

THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG (2009, Ron Clements and John Musker)Disney's first African-American princess must turn her a frog prince back into a human being.

12 YEARS A SLAVE (2013, Steve McQueen)British artist and filmmaker Steve McQueen delves into the story of a free black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the American antebellum South.

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READ MORE

Check out these other movie-related lists:

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Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know in the comments!

Don't EditThe Interdenominational Ministers Conference of Greater Harrisburg will honor black history with an observance Feb. 18 during business hours at Manna Cafe, 2020 State St., Harrisburg.

The honorees are the Rev. W. Braxton Cooley, Homer C. Floyd, Sybil Knight-Burney, Wanda R.D. Williams, Dr. Herman Lawson and Eddie L. Ruth.

The Rev. W. Braxton Colley Sr., Ph.D., D.Min., retired in 2014 as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Steelton after 34 years of service. He is past president of the Interdenominational Ministers Conference and the Steelton African American Ministers Alliance. He has served pastorates in North Carolina, Ohio and New Jersey. He served two terms in the Susquehanna Township School Board and served as vice president of the Harrisburg Urban League.

Homer Floyd is the former executive director of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission. Floyd oversaw the desegregation of Harrisburg School District in 1974 and the integration and hiring of women into the Harrisburg police force.

Sybil Knight-Burney, Ph.D., is superintendent of the Harrisburg School District. Prior to being named superintendent, she was a supervisory instructor at Harvard University, an adjunct professor at Lesley University and Framingham State University and served in leadership roles at Rindge and Latin School and the Agassiz School of Cambridge, Mass.

Harrisburg City Council President Wanda R.D. Williams is also past president of the Harrisburg School Board.

Dr. Herman Lawson is a family medicine specialist who has been practicing for 43 years. He is a 1975 graduate of Penn State University College of Medicine.

Eddie L. Ruth Sr. started Eddies Company in 1972. According to the IMC, he is the only African American to continuously own a building in downtown Harrisburg. H3 is president of Eddie's Men's Store, Ruth Wardrobe, Eddie's Furniture Gallery and vice president of E.T.E. Inc, a real estate corporation.

Tickets are $14.50 for adults, $12.25 for senior citizens and $9.25 for children.

Black attire is requested.

Reservations are needed by Feb. 18 at 717-381-1539 or on Feb. 18 at 717-255-9081.Last month the Pennsylvania Supreme Court instructed the state's Republican-led legislature to draw a new congressional map after finding the existing one was an illegal partisan gerrymander that violated voters' right to participate in "free and equal elections."

On Friday, Republican leaders in the legislature submitted their new map for the governor's approval. As directed by the Supreme Court, the new map is much more compact than the old one. Gone are the infamous convolutions that characterized the old map, earning nicknames such as "Goofy kicking Donald Duck."

The new districts generally respect county and municipal boundaries and don't "wander seemingly arbitrarily across Pennsylvania," as the state's Supreme Court wrote. Unfortunately for Pennsylvania voters, the new districts show just as much partisan bias as the old ones.

You can demonstrate this using the precinct-level results of the 2016 presidential election: See which precincts are assigned to which districts under the new map, use those assignments to calculate the total presidential vote in each of the new districts, and compare those figures with the vote totals under the old districts. That will give you a good sense of how the partisan makeup of the new districts compares to the old ones.

Brian Amos, a redistricting expert at the University of Florida, has done exactly that. Amos combined the new district maps with precinct-level returns compiled by cartographers Nathaniel Kelso and Michal Migurski.

The similarities are striking: In 2016, Donald Trump received more votes than Hillary Clinton in 12 out of Pennsylvania's 18 districts. Under the Republicans' new map, Trump would similarly outperform Clinton in exactly 12 districts.

Not only that, but the vote margins in each district would be virtually identical. Across all 18 districts, the average difference in vote margins between the old and new map would be a little over 4 percentage points.

From a partisan standpoint, in other words, the new map is almost exactly like the old one. Under the existing map, Democratic House candidates have routinely received roughly 50 percent of the statewide popular House vote but only five of the state's 18 House seats. The new map is unlikely to change that.

"This reminds me of what happened in Florida in 2012, where the state legislature drew maps under new constitutional anti-gerrymandering requirements," Amos said. He should know: Amos was a consulting expert for the plaintiffs in the lawsuit that ultimately overturned some of Florida's gerrymanders.

In that case the legislature redrew maps that were more compact but just as biased. "Compared to the previous decade's plan, it was an improvement in measures like compactness and respecting county and municipal boundaries," Amos said. "But there was still a strong Republican bias, which is why the congressional and State Senate plans were struck down for being gerrymanders."

Pennsylvania Republicans deny partisanship was a factor in their new maps.

"Partisan data was not used in any form in the development of the proposed map," Drew Crompton, general counsel to Pennsylvania's state Senate Republicans, said in an email. "The proposed map fully complies with all the metrics laid out by the plaintiff experts in the case as well as the tests set forth in the majority opinion by the Supreme Court of Pa."

The plaintiffs aren't buying it.

"Our experts have analyzed this map, and under the criteria set by the Supreme Court and common sense, their proposed map fails," said Mimi McKenzie, legal director of the Public Interest Law Center, which is representing the League of Women Voters in its lawsuit against Pennsylvania's maps.

The new map "exhibits extreme pro-Republican bias that mathematically can only have happened through an intentional effort."

Amos, who is not involved in the Pennsylvania lawsuit, pointed out that you don't need partisan data to produce a partisan map. "If you have a strong interest in your state's politics, you've probably looked at detailed maps of election results before, if not studied them closely," he said. "It might not be as precise as getting exact party breakdown predictions, as is possible with redistricting software loaded up with those data, but it doesn't guarantee that the process was partisan-blind."

Experts consulted by the plaintiffs in the Pennsylvania case have testified that it's highly unlikely the level of partisan skew observed in the old maps - and now the new ones - is accidental. Jowei Chen of the University of Michigan created 500 computer-drawn district maps optimized for Pennsylvania's traditional redistricting criteria of compactness, contiguity and equal population.

Among those maps, "the highest number of classified Republican districts was 10, and in none of the simulated plans would 13 of the congressional districts be classified as Republican" as they are under the existing maps, Chen found.

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf , a Democrat, has until Thursday to review the new Republican-drawn map. If Wolf rejects it, the Supreme Court will instruct independent redistricting expert Nathaniel Persily of Stanford University to draw a new map from scratch.

(c) 2018, The Washington Post * Christopher IngrahamDry and cooler conditions are expected to move into central Pennsylvania on Monday, according to forecasters.

A dense fog advisory remains in effect for much of central Pennsylvania until midnight Sunday, according to the National Weather Service at State College.

Juniata, Lycoming, Union, Snyder, Montour, Northumberland, Columbia, Perry, Dauphin, Schuylkill, Lebanon, Cumberland, Adams, York, and Lancaster counties are covered by the advisory.

"The dense fog will give way to improving conditions by around midnight," according to the National Weather Service.

Sunday's low is expected to around 34.

A chance of rain is expected to move back into the area on Wednesday and Thursday, according to AccuWeather.

MONDAY: Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 42. Low around 22.

TUESDAY: Mostly sunny, with a high near 39. Low around 28.

WEDNESDAY: There will be a 50 percent chance of rain after 8 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 49. Low around 42.

THURSDAY: There will be 60 percent chance of rain showers, mainly after 8 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60. Low around 42.

You can see live weather updates via the National Weather Service and other Twitter sources below.

Tweet us at @pennlive with photos of inclement weather at your place, incidents you see on your commute or send a submission to submissions@pennlive.com.Four people were killed and several were injured from gun violence in Philadelphia this weekend.

A triple shooting in Southwest Philadelphia killed one person and injured two around 2 p.m. Sunday, NBC 10 is reporting.

In that case, police found a 23-year-old man, who had been shot in the neck, torso and leg, lying next to a car. He was pronounced dead at the hospital, where the two other victims were treated for non life-threatening injuries, according to reports.

"When I came out I saw the young man on the ground, the car was shot up and people were just running all around him, and another man sitting there holding him," resident Melissa Haines told 6 ABC.

In that case, police are looking for two men who wore black clothing and were heading east on the 7400 block of Elmwood Avenue.

Also, a 22-year-old was found on a West Philadelphia street Saturday night with gunshot wounds to the face and torso, and another 22-year-old was found with multiple gunshot wounds in Southwest Philadelphia, NBC 10 is reporting. Both died.

And another man in his 30s was found dead with a gunshot wound to the thigh in a vacant lot in North Philadelphia, according to reports.

Several people were also injured following a shooting at a barbershop in West Philadelphia, reports indicate.Source: sputniknews.com

The US is planning to increase its military foothold in East Asia, following the newly signed National Defense Strategy, in a bid to counter Chinas power in the region. The planned troop redeployment will be conducted at the expense of forces in the Middle East.

Sputnik discussed the reasons behind the decision and its possible effects on the region with Dr. Joseph Cheng, Professor of Political Science at the City University of Hong Kong.

Why is the US taking this step of increasing its military footprint in East Asia?

Joseph Cheng: It has to do with two sets of reasons, in the first place it treats China and Russia as rivals and it therefore believes it should enhance the American military presence in the region. It believes that by doing more, it is in a better position to ask its allies to do more, especially on a part of Japan and South Korea.

The other set of factors has to do with the fact that President Donald Trump does not believe that the United States has a serious budget deficit problem in contrast to his predecessor. He believes that his tax cut programs will solve the budget deficit problem in fact and therefore is willing to spend more. I think spending more will help to please the American military industrial complex as well.

It looks like it is very provocative, this action. What signal does it send out with regards of this move to China?

Joseph Cheng: China will be carefully monitoring the policy orientations of the Donald Trump administration. This is, of course, treated as a part of the broader picture. China is obviously very concerned that the Donald Trump administration treats it as a kind of rival. If the United States chooses to exert pressure on the economic front, then China is more willing to make concessions in terms of reducing its trade deficit, vis-a-vis the United States, to invest more in the United States and so on. But if the pressure comes from the military front, China will probably also increase its military expenditures as well.

And you think it is going to worsen the situation in the South China Sea now with this particular action?

Joseph Cheng: Probably so, because as we were saying, the United States under Donald Trump will probably spend more on the military. He is ready to enhance the United States military presence in the region and will exert pressure on American allies in the region to do the same, to do more in terms of military strength. So this kind of approach is not healthy, is not going to be helpful to reduce tension in the region.

The US is withdrawing troops from the Middle East and transferring them over to the South East Asia region. What is your particular take on this changeover?

Joseph Cheng: The United States probably now thinks the Middle East is less significant in the sense that the US is much more self-sufficient in the terms of oil and natural gas. Withdrawing some military forces from the region will allow the Donald Trump administration to declare the situation is under control that it is winning the war in Syria and so on and, at the same time, as we have been arguing, transferring the military to East Asia will show that the United States attaches a lot of priority to this region. And from the militarys tactical point of view it is more advantageous to transfer the military from one region to another while they then are withdrawing them back to the United States mainland.Lebanon police said a 79-year-old woman died after a pedestrian crash in the city Monday morning.



Just after 11 a.m., the woman was crossing the street on the 1200 block of Maple Street when she was struck by a vehicle. The 78-year-old Jonestown man driving the vehicle is cooperating with police.

The Lebanon County district attorney's office is assisting Lebanon police in the investigation.On Sunday, Bishop David A. Zubik of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh celebrated a Mass of Remembrance and Healing for those who have suffered from drug addiction -- for the addicts and their families. Hundreds of people, including at least a dozen priests, gathered for the service.

The Mass was celebrated at St. Paul Cathedral in Oakland, as an opportunity to pray for those lost to drug addiction and overdose, and for their families. It's part of a push in the diocese to address the impact of drug addiction in southwestern Pennsylvania. Future activities will include educational opportunities and interfaith prayer gatherings, the bishop said in a news release.

Allegheny County in 2017 reported at least 652 overdose deaths, the third year in a row that it shattered its own overdose record, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported.

"You are not alone. We love you," Bishop Zubik said to those struggling with addiction. "We hope in you and we want to support you so you can get better. We can't do that ourselves. We really need God's help."

"We as the church really want to embrace you," said Bishop David Zubik, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "For those who have tragically lost loved ones ... we want to embrace you in your grief."

"Each day I open the newspaper and see the names of far too many people who have died as result of drug addiction," Bishop Zubik said in a news release. "They are mothers and fathers, daughters and sons, granddaughters and grandsons, sisters and brothers and friends. We have a responsibility - on our own and as communities of faith - to pray for all who have struggled or who are struggling with addiction and for their loved ones who suffer with them."A pickup truck stolen in Lebanon County was used in the theft of several ATVs, kicking off a police investigation.

Police are now asking for the public's help in identifying the three perpetrators.

Pennsylvania State Police public information officer Trooper David Beohm said a white 2005 Ford F250 was stolen from a home on Tulpehocken Road in Jackson Township overnight Saturday or early Sunday.

The accused truck thieves then drove the stolen truck to Off Road Motorsports on the 600 block of E. Lincoln Ave., which is Route 422, also in Jackson Township. They broke into the business and loaded three ATVs into a white trailer, which belonged to the business, and took off east on Route 422 towards Berks County, police say.

Surveillance cameras caught three people in dark clothing and masks. The thefts total roughly $70,000 in value.

Police say the owner of Off Road Motorsports is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the return of the stolen vehicles and the arrest and prosecution of those involved.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Pennsylvania State Police at Jonestown, 717-865-2194. Tips can also be submitted to PA Crime Stoppers, 1-800-472-8477.Retirement income from a variety of sources--including Social Security, personal savings, and employer-sponsored savings plans--ensures a sound financial future.

John Scott (Pew Charitable Trusts photo)

But for many Americans, a part of this puzzle is missing. More than a third of all private sector workers lack access to a workplace plan--and 31 percent of those whose employers do offer retirement benefits don't participate.

Workers without access to a workplace retirement plan could have other retirement savings, such as an individual retirement account or a plan from a prior employer.

But research from The Pew Charitable Trusts shows that just 27 percent of those without access to a plan say they have any retirement savings.

Pennsylvania is generally ahead of these national trends; for instance, when given a chance, 86 percent of Pennsylvanians participate in a workplace retirement plan. But as many as 1 million full-time, full-year private sector workers in the commonwealth lack access to a workplace retirement plan--a number that swells if part-time workers and independent contractors are included.

And, like the nation as a whole, access to a plan is particularly low in Pennsylvania for workers at small firms; for low-to-moderate wage employees; for Hispanics; and for those who are younger, among others.

Small firms say they want to help their workers save for retirement, but many business owners say they cannot afford the costs of starting a plan or don't have the administrative capacity to run a plan.

Employees would welcome the help. Only 38 percent of Pennsylvanians have tried to figure out how much they need to save for retirement--and just 23 percent are satisfied with their current personal financial condition when thinking of their assets, debts, and savings, according to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority's FINRA Investor Education Foundation.

The problem has not gone unnoticed. State Treasurer Joe Torsella convened a task force, with bipartisan participation from the Pennsylvania Legislature, business, and labor, to assess retirement security in the commonwealth.

As the task force pursues its work, new research shows that saving for retirement provides many benefits. A report from Pew based on a survey of private sector workers, "Workplace Retirement Plans Tend to Sharpen Focus on Financial Futures," finds a clear connection between retirement plan participation and financial planning. Like the FINRA data, Pew's research indicates that few workers nationwide have tried in the past two years to figure out how much income they would need in retirement.

The good news is that those currently participating in an employer-sponsored plan--or have ever participated in such a plan--are more likely to have engaged in retirement planning than those who are not, or have not been, plan participants. Participation in an employer-sponsored plan may make workers more cognizant of the need to plan--or give them more opportunities to do so.

What's more, the report suggests that workers who have participated in employer-sponsored plans have access to better planning resources, and use more rigorous tools to determine their retirement income needs, than those who have not participated in such a plan.

Guesstimating--informal or so-called "back of the envelope" calculations--is common among both groups, but more so for workers without access to a workplace plan (43 percent) than those with access (31 percent). Using a more formal tool than the back of an envelope can be a reality check for workers who may be overconfident in their savings, thus prodding them to better prepare for retirement.

The bottom line? Policies that encourage greater access to, and participation in, employer-based plans appear to be a critical pathway to retirement security--not just by building assets but also by helping individuals plan for a brighter financial future.

John Scott is director of The Pew Charitable Trusts' retirement savings project.This bar chart shows the growth in the number of six-figure earners in Pennsylvania state government over the years.

After a one-year slump, the number of six-figure earners in Pennsylvania's state government rebounded in 2017 to its highest number ever, 8,290.

That represents a 714 increase in state government's $100,000 Club from 2016's 7,576 six-digit earners.

That was enough to drop the number of state government employees who made $100,000 or more from one in every 14 in 2016 to nearly one in every 13 workers last year.

In 2015, the number of employees earning six figures was 7,692.

Interestingly, Dan Egan, a spokesman for the governor's Office of Administration, noted the number of filled positions in executive agencies under the governor's jurisdiction has been cut by nearly 1,500 since December 2016, which brings the complement to the lowest level in more than four decades.

However, most of those agencies saw an increase in the number of six-figure earners, according to PennLive's analysis of earnings of the highest-compensated employees in the 106,422-member workforce in the three state governmental branches and independent state agencies.

$100,000 Club: Search the database

More than half of the 20 employees topping the earnings list are doctors who work for the state Department of Human Services with Dr. Michael Brogna being the highest earner in state government last year, with earnings that approached $413,000.

Brogna, a physician specialist in internal medicine at Danville State Hospital, has worked for the department for 26 years. He was the only state government employee who topped the $400,000 mark in 2017.

Keep in mind, earnings for the purposes of this report can reflect more than salary in some instances. It can include such forms of compensation as unused leave payout, overtime, bonuses, grievance awards, longevity payments, summer camps, summer school teaching assignments, and more.

Regardless of what form it takes, state government employees are compensated with public money that comes from a variety of sources, including tax dollars, fees, agency earnings, federal funds, fines, and more.

Here are some notable observations from an analysis of the earnings data:FILE - In this Nov. 23, 2011 file photo, film producer Harvey Weinstein poses for a photo in New York. New York's attorney general on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018, filed a lawsuit against Weinstein and the Weinstein Co. following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct. (AP Photo/John Carucci, File)FILE - In this Feb. 23, 2017, file photo, General Dynamics CEO Phebe Novakovic listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with manufacturing executives at the White House in Washington. General Dynamics is buying CSRA for almost $7 billion. Novakovic said in a printed statement that the deal will help it provide cost-effective IT solutions and services to the Department of Defense, intelligence community and federal civilian agencies. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)FILE - This image released by Columbia Pictures shows Peter Rabbit, voiced by James Corden and Cottontail in a scene from "Peter Rabbit." The filmmakers and the studio behind it are apologizing for insensitively depicting a character's allergy in the film that has prompted backlash online. Sony Pictures said Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018, in a statement the film "should not have made light" of a character being allergic to blackberries "even in a cartoonish" way. (Columbia Pictures/Sony via AP, File)Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball checks his mobile device as he waits for the First Ministers Meeting to begin in Ottawa, Tuesday, October 3, 2017. Lawyers for Ball are expected to make arguments in Supreme Court today over a publication ban on documents in the murder trial of a man who used to date his daughter. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian WyldChina's Su-35 fighter jets meet the urgent need for high-performance heavy-duty aircraft before the J-20 stealth fighter jets come into combat service. (File photo)

The J-20 fighter will bring remarkable changes to the Chinese Air Force. (File photo)

Latest news of China's Su-35 fighter jets' participating in a joint combat patrol mission in the South China Sea and J-20 stealth fighter jets' entering into combat service have sparked heated discussion before the Chinese New Year.

Wang Mingzhi, a professor with the Chinese PLA Air Force Command Academy, interpreted the significance of the two pieces of news.

Reporter: The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force announced on Feb. 7 that China has recently sent Su-35 fighter jets for a joint combat patrol mission in the South China Sea. In what ways can the Su-35 improve the PLA Air Forces combat capability?

Wang Mingzhi: The Su-35 fighter jet is a typical third-generation enhanced multi-purpose fighter aircraft. It has advantages in long range, combat radius, mobility, situational awareness and information combat capability, and it also has strong air combat and assault capability against ground and maritime targets.

China's Su-35 fighter jet is equipped with advanced mid-range air-to-air missiles and short-range combat missiles and is therefore capable of effectively striking various air targets beyond near-field visual range. The aircraft also has a strong precision strike capability and can launch long-range strikes against ground targets and ships at sea.

The deployment of the Su-35 is expected to improve the air force's adaptive capacity in various complicated situations in the air and on the sea, and enhance China's ability to maintain national sovereignty and security and maritime interests in the South China Sea.

Reporter: What signal does the joint patrol in the South China Sea send?

Wang Mingzhi: The patrol mission involving the Su-35 fighters is an annual training and it also sends three important messages to the outside world:

The first is the PLA Air Force's resolution to implement missions in the new era and firmly maintain national sovereignty and security and maritime interests.

The second is that the PLA Air Force has made new improvements in its capabilities in safeguarding national sovereignty and security and maritime interests. It also shows that the PLA is capable of coping with the complicated situations in the South China Sea.

The third is that the PLA Air Force will further enhance its maritime combat capability, especially under long-distance and high-sea conditions.

Reporter: The PLA Air Force also announced on Feb. 9 that China's latest J-20 stealth fighters have been commissioned into air force combat service. How do you interpret "have been commissioned into combat service?"

Wang Mingzhi: China's J-20 stealth fighter jet made its maiden flight in 2011 and was first shown to the public at the 11th Airshow China in Zhuhai, China's Guangdong Province, in November 2016.

China's J-20 stealth fighter jets went through a series of trials to form the fighting tactics, technologies and procedures for the new generation of stealth fighters after being delivered to the PLA Air Force.

This process laid the foundation for its deployment of stealth fighters to the air force's combat units and also helped form combat effectiveness as soon as possible.

Facts have proved that China has not only developed a stealth fighter jet with advanced technology in a shorter cycle than other world powers, but also transformed cutting-edge technology and equipment into a powerful combat capability more quickly.

The commission of the J-20 indicates that China's air force has taken a solid step forward in implementing the strategic requirements of "integrated capabilities for both offensive and defensive operations in space as well as in air."

Reporter: What is the significance of the J-20 stealth fighter jets' commission to combat units?

Wang Mingzhi: First, it signals that China's air force has greatly increased its ability to deal with new security threats in airspace. It changed the way the PLA fought against stealth aircraft by using non-stealth aircraft and ground air-defense system and significantly enhanced the ability to deal with threats from stealth fighter jets.

Second, it means that the PLA has made steady progress in its main battle aviation equipment system.

China's main battle aviation equipment system, featuring with the fourth-generation aircraft as the backbone, the third-generation aircraft as the main body and information equipment as the support, is gradually taking shape.

Third, it confirms that the PLA Air Force's conventional deterrence and combat capability have been improved significantly.

The J-20 has overwhelming advantages over non-stealth fighter jets and brings a powerful air deterrence and combat capability against those who threaten China's air-space security.The corporate logo of Aecon Group Inc. is shown. The federal cabinet has told Aecon Group Inc. that it will take more time to complete a national security review of the proposed takeover of the Canadian construction company by a Chinese state-owned business. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HOA raccoon peers down from a tree at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015 in Key Biscayne, Fla. Toronto police and the city's animal services department say multiple raccoons have been rounded up by officers, amid what they believe is a viral outbreak among animals that could be carrying a rabies-like infection. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Wilfredo LeeFILE - In this Jan. 20, 2017 file photo, Vanessa Trump arrives at the U.S. Capitol on Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, in Washington, Donald Trump's inauguration ceremony. Police say Vanessa Trump, wife of Donald Trump Jr., opened an envelope that contained white powder, felt ill and was taken to New York City hospital as a precaution. A police department spokesman says a preliminary test of the powder indicated it wasn't dangerous. (Win McNamee/Pool Photo via AP, File)Guyana's sovereign immunity in 2016 PSA with ExxonMobil is far worse that 1999 PSA By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell



GEORGETOWN

Petroleumworld 02 12 2018 The 2016 Petroleum Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed by Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, is far worse than the 1999 Agreement signed by former President Janet Jagan.



This was expressed by Attorney-at-law, Christopher Ram, as he pointed out what he saw as another worrying provision in the 2016 agreement.

Ram has turned his attention to Article 26 of the contract titled Sole Expert and Arbitration.



Ram said that Article 26 has been subject to several changes. Those start with paragraph one which under the 1999 Agreement required the parties to make best efforts to settle disputes but which now only requires the parties to make reasonable efforts. This process can last for 60 days after which any party may proceed to have the dispute determined by arbitration.



Ram also noted that references in Article 26.2 of the 1999 Agreement dealing with sole expert has been amended and the new Article 26.2 mandatorily requires that Any claim, demand, cause of action, dispute, or controversy arising out of or in connection with this Agreement, including any question regarding its formation, existence, validity, enforceability, performance, termination, or alleged breach (Dispute) which cannot be settled amicably by negotiation shall be resolved by arbitration.



Ram said that his interpretation of the amendment is that the role of a sole expert has been downgraded in the 2016 Agreement in favour of arbitration. This is certainly a more costly option than sole expert and one must wonder about the reason. The process requires approaching the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) for arbitration before three arbitrators.



Further, Article 26 requires the Government to irrevocably waive any claim to immunity for itself, its agencies, its enterprises, and any of its assets.

According to New World Encyclopedia, immunity confers a status on a person or body that places them above the law and makes that person or body free from otherwise legal obligations such as liability for torts or damages, or prosecution under criminal law for criminal acts. There are various types of immunity, such as that given to sovereigns, parliament officials, diplomats, prosecutors, or witnesses to crimes.



This exemption from an obligation or being penalised was formed for instances wherein the gravity of finding the perpetrators or the elements of a crime or situation far out-weighed the penalty for the individual who was being considered for immunity. Public benefits usually play an important role in decisions in the attempts to solve certain matters and a balancing act is created in favour of the development.



The Encyclopedia states that sovereign immunity is based on the idea that a sovereign is superior to all in authority and power. It prevents, in advance, a suit or prosecution against a sovereign, being a monarch, ruler, or government, without the sovereign's consent.



While the origin of sovereign immunity derives from forms of government led by a monarch, it can nonetheless be applied to any sovereignty, where sovereign is understood as the supreme lawmaking authority. Thus, sovereign immunity may be applied to any government, preventing it from being sued without its consent.



In the United States, where ExxonMobil is from, the federal government has sovereign immunity and may not be sued unless it has waived its immunity or consented to suit.



Ram noted that immunity waiver is not usually taken lightly.



Here is another kicker. Under the 1999 Agreement, the fees and expenses of the Sole Expert as well as the charges for the use of the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes or other facilities, were to be borne equally by the Contractor and the Minister. The role of the Sole Expert under Trotman's Agreement seems hazy but what is not hazy is the provision of a new Article 26.8 that the arbitrators shall assess the expenses incurred by the Parties, the fees and expenses of the arbitrators, the charges for the use of the facilities and any other costs related to the arbitration and shall decide by whom such costs shall be paid.



Given that Trotman would be terrified at the prospect of arbitration, the potential expenses and at an unfavourable ruling by the Arbitrators, makes one wonder why he would have agreed to some of these changes. The depth of the mystery makes the exploration by Anadarko in ultra-deep water look like a neighbourhood pool.



Story by Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell from Kaieter News



Kaieteurnewsonline.com 02 12 2018 T

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'98,ME,XP, Vista, Windows 7,8,10 +/ 800x600 pixelsA production timeline should be set in the Guyana-Exxon Mobil PSA - Nigel Hinds By Kaieter News



GEORGETOWN

Petroleumworld 02 12 2018 The fact that Guyana will begin to reap benefits from royalties and profit from oil only after ExxonMobil beings production is reason enough to ensure that a production timeline is in the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that the country signed with ExxonMobil.



This was noted recently by Chartered Accountant, Nigel Hinds.

Hinds said that with each discovery of oil ExxonMobil makes offshore Guyana, the company reaps good financial benefits on the stock market.

He said that it is normal for a production timeline to be set in the PSA.

Otherwise, Exxon could continue at infinitum with their exploration of the 6.6 million acres making up the Stabroek Block.



Hinds said that while Guyana will be desperate to start receiving royalties soonest; ExxonMobil will have other variables to consider; thus the reason why a production timeline is normally in the PSA. But, of course our unflappable negotiators neglected to include a production timeline in the PSA. The production date seems to be solely at Exxon's discretion.

ExxonMobil has already announced that it is poised to begin production by 2020. However, Hinds said that that date is not binding. He said that there have been many cases where oil companies postponed production due to the world market prices not being optimum at the time. The value for Exxon is primarily in the increase of their recoverable reserves and a PSA that favours them, unlike any other PSA ever recorded on this planet, said Hinds.



Hinds also noted that ExxonMobil held its 2017 Q4 conference call on February 2, 2018 and Guyana was by far the country most mentioned by Jeff Woodbury, Vice President and Investor as he presented the 2017 Q4 update and took questions from the analysts. Exxon representative seemed euphoric during the conference call, about their reserves and prospects in Guyana.



Exxon has made six discoveries in the deep-water offshore of Guyana. Associated recoverable reserves are now up to 3.2 billion Barrels of oil equivalent.



Exploration in Guyana's offshore is in an early stage and it is much more probable than possible that Guyana's recoverable oil reserve will exceed the Ten Billion mark.



Story by Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell from Kaieter News



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'98,ME,XP, Vista, Windows 7,8,10 +/ 800x600 pixelsTrump energy policy an alternative to poland but pits Washington against Moscow

By Timothy Gardner

WASHINGTON

Petroleumworld 02 12 2018

Last July, U.S. President Donald Trump stood beside his Polish counterpart, Andrzej Duda, in Warsaw and promised to help wean the nation off Russian energy imports. He offered U.S. fuel as an alternative, so that you can never be held hostage to a single supplier.

Trump was tapping into longstanding European concerns about Russia's ability to shut off natural gas supplies - which it has done in past pricing disputes. U.S. lawmakers say Russia's influence over energy has proven effective in silencing critics of its human rights abuses, annexation of Crimea, and incursion into eastern Ukraine, an assertion the Kremlin has denied.

Six months after Trump's trip, Poland has contracted for imports of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG), crude oil, and coal, and announced it will not renew a gas supply deal with Russia's state-owned Gazprom when it expires in 2022 - halting an exclusive and troubled relationship dating to 1944.

The episode exemplifies a key goal of Trump's energy dominance agenda - using rising energy exports to bolster Washington's geopolitical influence.

The policy also seeks to boost domestic production through rollbacks of environmental regulations and expanded energy leasing in federal territories, but those efforts have so far had little impact.

Trump nonetheless inherited a booming oil and gas industry that has given his administration more international clout in energy markets than any White House has enjoyed in decades.

U.S. oil output has risen to more than 10 million barrels per day for the first time since 1970 thanks to improved drilling technology that dates back years. Natural gas output has also soared, making America the world's top producer of the fuel.

Meanwhile, the 2015 repeal of a 40-year-old ban on crude oil exports - passed by a Republican-controlled Congress and signed by former President Barack Obama - has made strategic shipments overseas possible. The permitting of U.S. LNG export facilities in recent years has provided another boost.

(For an interactive graphic detailing the global impacts of the U.S. shale revolution, see: tmsnrt.rs/2EtJgen )

It remains to be seen how successfully the administration will play its strong hand. Obstacles include environmental opposition to new pipelines and other energy projects at home, competition from other big exporters abroad, and potential trade disputes.

But early signs are promising. Lithuania, Ukraine, China, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam are among the more than 30 countries that have recently cut U.S. energy supply deals over the past two years - many for the first time.

BUYING LESS FROM OPEC, SELLING MORE TO CHINA

John McCarrick, the deputy assistant secretary at the State Department's Bureau of Energy Resources, said his staff helped pave the way for some of the energy supply agreements by meeting with private and public officials in Europe and Asia to promote the strategic value of U.S. energy.

All we're trying to do is level the market playing field, by giving allies the ability to diversify their energy supply, he said.

Doing so, he said, could reduce the influence of market distorting actors, including Russia and producers in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

The administration also hopes to use energy exports to reduce yawning trade deficits with partners - particularly with China, which last year exported goods to the United States worth $347 billion more than it imported.

China has become a top customer of U.S. LNG and is now the second-largest buyer of U.S. crude behind Canada. China's state oil company signed a preliminary agreement in November to invest in a $43 billion LNG export facility in Alaska, which would compete with Russia's Yamal LNG export terminal in the Arctic.

To see collaboration rather than being at each other's throats - that's a real positive, said Daniel Yergin, an energy historian and vice chairman of IHS Markit.

U.S. coal exports to Asia have also risen in recent months as ailing U.S. mining companies search for alternatives to the weak domestic market.

While U.S. exports are soaring, its imports are falling - reducing its economic and political dependence on oil-producing nations in the Middle East and elsewhere.

Since 2005, U.S. net petroleum imports have plunged to just 4 million barrels per day, from 12.5 million bpd, with the share coming from OPEC falling to about a third from more than half.

The now-repealed U.S. oil export ban dated back to an era of feared fuel shortages after Arab members of OPEC imposed an embargo against the United States in retaliation for U.S. support of the Israeli military.

WAKING THE BEAR

Trump's National Security Strategy document, unveiled in December, said one aim of the energy dominance policy was to help our allies and partners become more resilient against those that use energy to coerce.

Former Soviet bloc nation Lithuania received its first cargo of U.S. LNG in August - an event Lithuania's foreign affairs minister called crucially important for the whole region.

The Trump administration also helped negotiate a deal in July between Ukraine and U.S. miner Xcoal Energy for some 700,000 tons of coal, and provided hundreds of millions of dollars in financing and insurance to gas and wind power projects there.

Ukraine has borne the brunt of Russia's near-monopoly of gas supplies to Europe over the years. State energy company Gazprom has cut off gas to Ukraine, and onward to Western Europe, during price disputes in deep winter, and imposed bans on customers reselling gas to other countries.

The Kremlin and Gazprom have said those disputes were driven by commercial, not political, matters. Gazprom's deputy CEO Alexander Medvedev downplayed the impact of U.S. energy shipments on the region.

I would compare Gazprom's gas exports to Europe with a cup of tea and U.S. supplies to a few drops of cognac or whiskey added to that cup, he told investors in London on Thursday. You get a bit of smell but there is no major taste.

Russia aims to solidify business ties in Western Europe with a proposed gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea to Germany - the Nord Stream 2. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said in Warsaw on Jan. 27 that Washington views the project as a threat to Europe's energy security.

In addition, Russia may have enough spare capacity to threaten U.S. drilling companies with a price war if American policy irks the country enough, analysts say.

Down the road, Russia could show the world just how much energy it has to produce, to the detriment... of rival U.S. oil and gas producers, said Amy Myers Jaffe, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations.

Past price wars with OPEC nations have triggered bankruptcies in the United States, including in 2014 when Saudi Arabia opened the spigots. But OPEC eventually relented as oil prices tanked, trimming output and paving the way for a U.S. recovery.

Even if the United States struggles to win market share in its competition with cheaper piped gas from Russia, the availability of an alternative will blunt the impact if Russia cuts supplies off again, and reduce its ability to dictate long-term restrictive contracts with its customers, analysts said.

America's greatest contribution will be changing the way gas business is done, rather than grabbing particular market share, said Agnia Grigas of the Atlantic Council think tank.

The State Department's McCarrick balked at the suggestion by some analysts that the U.S. effort to expand its exports overseas could anger Russia.

The Russians should understand they are competing in a market, he said. Really, it's just a competition, it's not a geopolitical threat.





US oil exports are transforming the global oil game

By Henning Gloystein

SINGAPORE

Petroleumworld 02 12 2018

Bit by bit, the U.S. petroleum industry is turning world oil markets inside out.

First, sharp drops in U.S. imports of crude oil eroded the biggest market that producers like OPEC had relied on for many years. Now, surging U.S. exports  largely banned by Washington until just two years ago - challenge the last region OPEC dominates: Asia.

U.S. oil shipments to China have surged, creating trade between the world's two biggest powers that until 2016 just did not exist, and helping Washington in its effort to reduce the nation's huge trade deficit with China.

The transformation is reflected in figures released in recent days that shows the U.S. now produces more oil than top exporter Saudi Arabia and means the Americans are likely to take over the No.1 producer spot from Russia by the end of the year. C-OUT-T-EIA

The growth has surprised even the official U.S. Energy Information Administration, which this week raised its 2018 crude output forecast to 10.59 million bpd, up by 300,000 bpd from their last forecast just a week before.

When U.S. oil exports appeared in 2016, the first cargoes went to free trade agreement partners South Korea and Japan. Few expected China to become a major buyer.

Data in Thomson Reuters Eikon shows U.S. crude shipments to China went from nothing before 2016 to a record 400,000 barrels per day (bpd) in January, worth almost $1 billion. Additionally, half a million tonnes of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) worth almost $300 million, headed to China from the U.S. in January.

TRADE SURPLUS NARROWS

The U.S. supplies will help reduce China's huge trade surplus with the U.S. and may help to counter allegations from U.S. President Donald Trump that Beijing is trading unfairly.

With the Trump administration, the pressure on China to balance accounts with the U.S. is huge... Buying U.S. oil clearly helps toward that goal to reduce the disbalance, said Marco Dunand, chief executive and co-founder of commodity trading house Mercuria.

As the energy exports rose, China's January trade surplus with the United States narrowed to $21.895 billion, from $25.55 billion in December, according to official Chinese figures released on Thursday.

The energy sales to China are still modest compared with the $9.7 billion of oil shipped by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to China in January. But they are already cutting into a market dominated by the likes of Saudi Arabia and Russia - with the threat of much more competition to come.

We see U.S. crude as a supplement to our large base of crude from the Middle East and Russia, said a refinery manager for China's oil-major Sinopec, declining to be named as he was not cleared to speak to media.

He said that Sinopec was looking to order more U.S. crude this year.

INSIDE OUT

China's crude imports climbed to a record 9.57 million bpd in January, official data showed on Thursday.

Meanwhile, U.S. imports have fallen below 4 million bpd, against a record 12.5 million bpd in 2005.

At average December/January volumes, American oil and gas sales to China would be worth around $10 billion a year. Including exports to Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, the figure doubles.

U.S. exports would be even greater but for infrastructure constraints: no U.S. port can handle the biggest oil tankers, known as Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC).

To address that, one of the biggest facilities in the Gulf of Mexico, the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port Services (LOOP), is expanding in order to handle VLCCs soon.

THE PRICE OF OIL

For Chinese buyers, the main attraction of U.S. oil has been price. Thanks to the shale boom, U.S. crude is cheaper than oil from elsewhere.

At around $60.50 per barrel, U.S. crude is currently some $4 per barrel cheaper than Brent, off which most other crudes are priced. <0#WTCL-LCOc:>

For many established oil exporters like the Middle East-dominated OPEC or Russia, who have been withholding production since 2017 in an attempt to push prices higher, these new oil flows mark a big loss in market share.

OPEC and Russia accepted that the U.S. will become a big producer because they simply wanted to get the price where it is today, Mercuria's Dunand said.

Since the start of the OPEC-led supply cuts in January 2017, oil prices have risen by 20 percent, though prices in February have come under pressure again in large part due to soaring U.S. output.

The flood of U.S. oil may even change the way crude is priced.

Most OPEC producers sell crude under long-term contracts which are priced monthly, sometimes retro-actively. U.S. producers, by contrast, export on the basis of freight costs and price spreads between U.S. and other kinds of crude oil.

This has led to a surge in traded volumes of U.S. crude futures, known as West Texas Intermediate (WTI), leaving volumes of other futures like Brent or Dubai far behind.

Buyers, like sellers of U.S. oil, started hedging WTI, said John Driscoll, director of Singapore-based consultancy JTD Energy Services.

Despite all these challenges to the traditional oil order, established producers are putting on a brave face.

We have no concern whatsoever about rising U.S. exports. Our reliability as a supplier is second to none, and we have the highest customer base with long-term sales agreements, said Amin Nasser, president and chief executive officer of Saudi Aramco, Saudi Arabia's state-owned oil behemoth.





Colombia looking at an oil hedging program - finance minister

By Rodrigo Campos

NEW YORK

P etroleumworld 02 12 2018

Colombia is drawing up plans to hedge against declines in the price of crude, its main export, the country's finance minister said on Friday, following in the footsteps of Mexico, which successfully used one during the 2014-2016 price slump.

Mauricio Cardenas said it is the right time for Colombia to start thinking about implementing an oil hedge for the first time, adding that the country would need to reshape its legal framework to allow the government to lead a potentially risky financial transaction.

Colombia needs to do something like what Mexico has (done), Cardenas told Reuters in an interview in New York. As oil prices recover and seem to be higher now than what they probably will be in the long term, this would be the right time to hedge.

Colombia once earned roughly a fifth of its national income from oil revenues, royalties and taxation, but that figure fell to nearly zero during the global decline in crude prices in 2014.

The country would need to change its laws to remove liability from public officials as they carry out those hedges, which could run into controversy in Congress, especially in an election year.

Colombians will elect a new Congress in March and a four-year president in May. President Juan Manuel Santos is serving his second term and is not allowed to run again.

Cardenas said he wants to start the creation of a legal framework so that in the future hedging becomes the norm, not the exception.

This is one of the things I'd like to do before the end of this administration, I think it would be a good thing to leave for the next administration to complete, he said.

A hedge would allow Colombia to stabilize oil revenues in the event of a slide in prices. The downside is that if prices improve the cost of the hedge is a loss.

Mexico, for example, likely profited little from its 2017 hedge as prices rebounded well above its bet that a barrel would average around $42. However, in 2016 Mexico saw a $2.65 billion payout from its oil hedge.

Oil has rebounded from 12-year lows of under $30 per barrel in 2016. Even after a 10 percent slump this week, it still closed at just over $59.

The recovery in oil prices has filled the coffers of Colombia's state-controlled oil company Ecopetrol, which over the last year has reduced its external debt by $3 billion to $15 billion, according to Cardenas.

The minister said Ecopetrol has between $4 billion and $5 billion in cash in hand that could be used for additional repayment of external debt. The company's results, due out in coming weeks, will positively surprise markets in terms of dividends and revenues to the Colombian government, Cardenas said.

We had a number of years where Ecopetrol did not provide any revenues to the Colombian government. Now we're going to start seeing those revenues again.

Reporting by Rodrigo Campos and Dan Bases; additional reporting by Nelson Bocanegra in Bogota; editing by Christian Plumb and Rosalba O'Brien





A hard-leftist' Gustavo Petro leads Colombia's presidential race

Nicolo Filippo Rosso/Bloomberg



Gustavo Petro, presidential candidate for the Progressivists Movement Party, speaks during a campaign rally in Tunja, Boyaca department, Colombia, on Jan. 31, 2018.

By Matthew Bristow and Oscar Medina

BOGOTA

Petroleumworld 02 12 2018

With Colombia's presidential election just over three months away, a hard leftist former guerrilla is leading in polls, and investors haven't yet fully woken up to the risk that he might win, according to Nomura.

When they do, the nation's bonds and currency are likely to sell off, according to Mario Castro, a Latin America FX and Rates Strategist at Nomura in New York. Two polls published this month show Gustavo Petro in first place, while another has him running second.

The markets are very complacent, and short-termist, Castro said in a phone interview. It's clear that there's a tail risk that he could be president.

'Hard Leftist' Petro Leads Colombia Election Race

- Petro / Fajardo / Vargas Lleras Source: Centro Nacional de Consultoria, Invamer, EcoAnalitica



Polls published in February

In a Feb. 9 report, Scotiabank's Head of Latin American Strategy Joe Kogan said the lack of investor concern over Petro was reminiscent of Peruvian economists who were blindsided by the 2011 win for leftist Ollanta Humala.

The base case is still for Petro to lose, but the uncertainty around that prediction has increased substantially, Kogan wrote. Recent history warns against underestimating political risks.

The foreign funds that bought a net 1.16 trillion pesos ($395 million) of Colombia's local peso bonds last month, appear not to be overly worried, while the peso has rallied 1.5 percent this year, the biggest gain in South America after Chile's currency. Nomura's base case is that Petro won't win, but merely making it to the second round would be enough to trigger a lot of volatility, Castro said.

Prove the Contrary'

In reply to questions sent to his press office, Petro said, The markets aren't endorsing the lies put out on social media by the extreme right, talking about policies of expropriation or inappropriate management of public finances, which the candidate Petro has continually refuted.

Petro has 23 percent of voting intentions, according to a poll published Feb. 8, compared to 18 percent for former Medellin Mayor Sergio Fajardo, and 10 percent for former Vice President German Vargas Lleras. The first round of voting will be held in May with a runoff vote in June.

Petro, who made the transition from guerrilla violence to democratic politics more than a quarter of a century ago, has tried to distance himself from the government of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela, and denies that he's a socialist. As mayor of Bogota, he cut debt and kept the city's AAA credit rating from Fitch intact, and has said he wants to respect the central bank's independence.

None of that is likely to cut much ice with Wall Street, which tends to consider leaders of Petro's political background to be risky until they can prove the contrary, Castro said. They've never been given the benefit of the doubt, he said.Lisa Laitman, director of the Rutgers Alcohol and Other Drug Assistance Program, started recovery housing at Rutgers three decades ago. She talks about the program inside the recovery housing at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. Two dozen students live in the on-campus residence hall, which is for students in recovery from drug and alcohol addictions. TIM TAI / Staff Photographer Read more

One day last month, students and staff at the Rutgers University residence hall busily planned their spring-break hiking trip to the Appalachian mountains of Tennessee.

Then they turned their attention to party planning for the Super Bowl. Pizza, wings, and nachos were on the menu. Alcohol was not.

"We have some of the best parties here," said Johnny, 24, a public relations major from St. Paul, Minn. "Sober."

Johnny and the other students in the residence hall are all in recovery from use of alcohol or other substances, which can be tricky on a college campus where fun too often is associated with imbibing.

"Part of what helps people stay in recovery is that they have fun," said Lisa Laitman, director of the alcohol and other drug assistance program at Rutgers' New Brunswick campus.

Laitman started and oversees the school's collegiate recovery program, one of the nation's oldest and most highly regarded programs of its kind, with a recovery counselor, organized group activities, and access to counseling, health, and other services.

As the opioid crisis has crept onto college campuses nationwide, more schools are starting or exploring the possibility of adding recovery housing for students.

"I get calls every week from schools trying to get something up and consult with us," Laitman said.

Alcohol by far remains the most commonly used substance, Laitman said, but more students are seeking help for opioid use than 10 years ago. Like Johnny, who got hooked on OxyContin, then heroin.

Rutgers was in the forefront when it started the recovery program and opened housing in 1988. Other schools including Pennsylvania State University, have since added programs, but many campuses do not offer dedicated housing or space and staffing.

That's beginning to change. New Jersey is requiring all public universities with at least 25 percent of students living on campus to have recovery housing by fall 2019. The state recently gave grants to several schools, including Rutgers, to start or expand programs.

In Pennsylvania, universities, including West Chester, St. Joseph's, Drexel and Temple, are exploring the possibility.

"There are more and more students in recovery, all kinds of recovery, and it's a population we want to make sure we're serving," said Joseph Kender, a spokesman for St. Joseph's.

At Temple, student government last spring asked the school to explore options for recovery housing. After several current or former students died in 2017 of opioid overdoses  including one in the library  officials said in December they are considering it.

Laitman proposed Rutgers program when she arrived on campus and heard from students in recovery that they felt lonely and isolated, watching peers go out and knowing it was a part of college life they couldn't share.

"People felt very cut off," she said.

The drinking culture on college campuses hasn't changed much. About 20 percent of college students could be diagnosed with a drinking problem, according to national statistics, and researchers estimate that each year 1,825 college students between the ages of 18 and 24 die from alcohol-related injuries. Data on opioid use by college students is limited, but a 2016 survey of 870 students by the University of Michigan found that 3.8 percent reported misuse of narcotics other than heroin, 1.9 percent had misused OxyContin and 1.3 percent Vicodin; less than 1 percent had used heroin. Marijuana use, by comparison, was much more prevalent, at nearly 40 percent.

The Rutgers' residence hall offers not just a place to live but a built-in set of friends on a similar path. They play games, go on trips, study, speak about recovery at high schools  and have parties.

"Coming here, you almost instantly have 30 friends," said Krishan, 35, a social-work major from Clinton, who used heroin until 2015. "It definitely made things a lot easier."

Krishan first entered college 15 years ago but dropped out as his grades plummeted and he struggled with addiction. It took him a decade to commit to sobriety, he said.

The location of the residence is largely kept anonymous on the 17,000 student campus to protect its students privacy.

To live there, students must have abstained for at least 90 days and attend at least two 12-step meetings a week and one monthly house meeting. The residents hold each other accountable.

They pay the same room and board rates as other students on campus and have the option of living there year round.

Jennifer, a 22-year-old from Chatham, N.J., said she began using drugs and alcohol in high school, but things really spiraled when she went to college in Miami. Xanax and alcohol were her drugs of choice. The breaking point, she said, was when she overdosed on her 21st birthday.

She then entered a rehab in Nashville, where she heard about Rutgers' program.

"Being from New Jersey and wanting to complete college, I thought that was perfect," she said.

She's been sober 15 months.

"My parents don't exactly still trust me yet," she said. "But my living here is a sign to them that I'm really committed to this."

Students this semester moved to a new building with a capacity for 40; 24 currently live there. But the community involved in recovery is closer to 100 students, said Keith Murphy, senior substance abuse counselor.

More than 90 percent of students who live in the house stay substance free and graduate, Laitman said. Their average GPA is nearly 3.3.

Johnny saw his GPA rise from 1.6 to 3.4.

His addiction started with marijuana and alcohol, he said, then progressed to oxycontin after he hurt his shoulder, then to heroin because it was cheaper.

"That got really bad. I had overdoses, and I still wanted to use," he said.

He went in and out of rehabs in Florida, Minnesota and Pennsylvania.

Then, while living with his father in New York City, he heard about Rutgers' program. He has been in recovery for 13 months.

Not all schools see the need for on-campus recovery housing.

"We have many resources available to help students who want and need it, but very few have shown any interest in designated recovery housing," said Ron Ozio, a spokesman for the University of Pennsylvania.

Drexel students in recovery live in an off-campus residence, The Haven at Drexel, which is operated by an outside party and offers support services, said spokeswoman Niki Gianakaris. But Drexel also is exploring adding an on-campus option for students who need less support.

At West Chester, a state school, a task force on recovery has been meeting for three semesters and is assessing the need for programming and housing, said spokeswoman Nancy Santos Gainer.

It can take time to build a recovery community. The College of New Jersey began offering housing in 2016, but only two students have opted for it. The college in the interim has opened the housing to students who wish to live in a substance free environment, which expanded residency to 10.

Penn State, with a main campus of about 46,000, started small three years ago with a recovery suite for four students and has since expanded capacity to 16, said Jason Whitney, program coordinator.

The housing kept Ryan, 22, a senior from Oakton, Va., at Penn State. He had been sober for three years in high school but felt his recovery was at risk when he arrived on campus, so much so that he took a semester off.

He returned his sophomore year when the recovery housing opened. Everything got better, he said.

"I was living with other people who wanted to do the same thing as me," he said, "grow in the same way and all stay in recovery. The people who I live with now are the best friends I've ever had."BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- China hopes all parties concerned will cherish the current detente on the Korean Peninsula and work together to achieve a nuclear-free peninsula, said a Foreign Ministry spokesman on Monday.

Spokesman Geng Shuang made the remarks at a routine press briefing when asked to comment on the invitation of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to the Republic of Korea (ROK) President Moon Jae-in to travel to Pyongyang for talks.

Geng said China welcomes the recent dialogue and cooperation between the two Koreas on the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics.

He said the joint efforts made by the DPRK and the ROK to improve relations and promote reconciliation and cooperation were in the fundamental interests of both sides and conducive to promoting peace and development in the region.

"We hope that dialogue during the Olympics will extend to routine dialogue, and dialogue between DPRK and the ROK will be expanded to dialogue between all the relevant parties, especially between DPRK and the United States," Geng quoted Foreign Minister Wang Yi as saying.

He also said he hoped that the two Korea's efforts to improve relations would be expanded to joint efforts of all parties to maintain peace in the Korean Peninsula.Since the Pennsylvania securities regulator fined him and his firm last summer, broker Austin Dutton, who has recommended real estate investments for Philadelphia city police officers and other retirees, has faced new FiNRA arbitration complaints Read more

Three retired Philadelphia police officers and a firefighter have filed complaints with the national Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) against Newbridge Securities of Boca Raton, Fla., alleging they were sold "unsuitable securities" by Doylestown investment salesman Austin Dutton and were not properly warned of the risks.

The complaints follow the largest broker and securities-firm fines in the history of the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities, levied against Newbridge and Dutton last summer.

In November and December, FINRA, the securities industry's self-regulatory body, posted the four complaints against Newbridge, alleging losses totaling over $750,000. In each case the unnamed investors said they were sold "unsuitable securities" and were not properly informed of the risks. Newbridge president Thomas Casolaro did not respond to a call Friday.

Dutton denies wrongdoing, according to FINRA, which considers details of the complaints and the names of the affected investors to be confidential.

FINRA complaint standards "are looser than" court complaints, and often end with no payment, said Gil Boyce, a lawyer at Kutak Rock LP, which represents Dutton's current firm, Sandlapper Securities.

FINRA approved Dutton's affiliation with Sandlapper after Dutton settled with Pennsylvania regulators and left Newbridge and a subsequent employer. Boyce called that a sign the agency expects Dutton will comply with securities industry rules. Dutton did not respond to requests for comment.

His clients, including Emil Tofton, a lawyer from the Philadelphia suburbs, said Dutton sold them closed-end real estate funds, including several organized by companies headed by Nicholas Schorsch. Dutton promoted the investments as steady income not subject to stock-market volatility. But investors said the funds lost value and proved difficult to sell when they wanted to get their principal back.

"Typically these are people who come into large sums of money, such as DROP money"  money from the Philadelphia city pension system early-retirement plan, said Nicholas Guiliano, a lawyer who says he represents the police and fire veterans who filed complaints last fall. Dutton marketed his retirement investments to Philadephia police and other city employees.

To invest in the closed-end real estate funds, given the risk investors might not be able to sell them in a timely and profitable way, "they had to sign documents that said they were millionaires. But none of them were," Guiliano said. "They are retired public servants. [Dutton] is making commissions, Newbridge is making commissions. They are all taking a few percent. It adds up to millions."

Dutton has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing. He marketed the real estate funds at free dinners and in ads for Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5 publications, among other venues. FOP officials have not returned calls seeking comment on their relationship to Dutton.

Last summer, the banking and securities department ordered Dutton to pay $200,000 for "dishonest or unethical practices in the securities business" after he recommended an investment "without reasonable grounds to believe that the transaction or recommendation was suitable for the customer," according to the settlement agreement.

Newbridge, the brokerage, was ordered to pay a separate, record $499,000 for failing to "maintain a reasonable system for applying and enforcing written procedures" when it could not show it was overseeing Dutton's sales as required.

Other law firms have posted pages on Facebook and their own websites trolling for Dutton's clients and offering to represent them in legal actions.

Guiliano expects more complaints as clients grow older and have difficulty selling the investments at a profit: "The chickens have not come home to roost yet."

He calls overreliance on these investments "reckless, to put 80 percent or 100 percent of a guy's investments into closed-end REITS," or non-traded Real Estate Investment Trusts, during a period when stock market indexes were going up broadly and investors could have made more money holding popular stock funds.

Dutton is also licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance to sell insurance-related investments. Insurance and annuity salespeople are generally not regulated by FINRA or other securities regulators, which means their sales practices require extra vigilance, Guiliano said.

"They can make 10 or 12 percent a year selling index-option annuities to people who could be paying a small fraction of that" for Vanguard indexed funds or other mutual funds in tax-exempt retirement accounts, he added. "But state insurance departments don't care."

Insurers say their annuity products, when used appropriately, help some Americans retire comfortably.

After Dutton and his firm, Bridge Valley Financial Services, affiliated with South Carolina-based Sandlapper last year, that firm's founders, Trevor Lee Gordon and Jack Bixler, were hit with FINRA fraud allegations in connection to $8 million in alleged illegal markups on Texas oil investments. Their lawyer, Boyce, said they are "vigorously defending" against those accusations.The Philadelphia Airport plans to locate an air freight complex on land acquired in Tinicum Township, Delaware County. Read more

A massive, mostly vacant land parcel beside Philadelphia International Airport could become a bustling shipping hub for everything from medicine to car parts under a plan to develop the site into a new air-freight complex serving a swath of the northeastern United States.

The airport last month acquired control of the so-called Henderson Tract, which sprawls 135 acres  an area similar in size to the entire King of Prussia Mall and its parking lots  to the immediate west of its passenger terminals.

The move caps a years-long battle over the fate of the property in Tinicum Township, Delaware County, and is a first step by Philadelphia toward cashing in on its location among some of the nation's biggest population centers in hopes of becoming a major air-freight power.

Up for grabs could be an estimated $50 billion in air-cargo business generated in the Philadelphia region, all but 9 percent of which is now lost to airports to the south, in Baltimore and Washington, and to the north, in New York and Newark, N.J., because Philadelphia doesn't have the capacity to take it on, said James Tyrrell, the airport's chief revenue officer.

Despite its name, the area to the northeast of the Henderson land known as Cargo City is mostly used for purposes other than shipping, such as American Airlines Inc.'s catering facility, Tyrrell said.

"We have not been involved, for all intents and purposes, in the cargo business," he said. "And we want to get involved."

The city took possession of the Henderson property on Jan. 19 for $54.5 million in compensation after settling litigation over past efforts to condemn the land for airport use, an airport spokeswoman said.

The city could wind up paying more to the property's former owners, the Henderson Group development company and related entities, if a panel to be convened by the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas determines that its fair market value is higher.

Henderson representatives have in the past accused the city of trying to acquire the land, undeveloped but for two now-vacant industrial buildings, for less than its actual value. Henderson Group spokesman Kevin Feeley declined last week to comment on the deal with the city.

The land's acquisition  like all airport activities  is being financed through fees paid by airlines to use the facility, as will its redevelopment at a cost that is yet to be established, Tyrell said.

Tyrrell said that it was not yet clear what form the air-cargo facility would take but that there appears to be demand among shippers for facilities with space to park planes near warehouses for easy loading and unloading.

A mid-January workshop held to present the site to potential future users was attended by representatives of FedEx Corp. and of Amazon Air, the growing air-shipping subsidiary of the e-commerce giant with a hub in Hebron, Ky., near Cincinnati, among others, Tyrrell said.

"We're looking for the leaders in the industry to tell us how we can take advantage of this opportunity," he said.

A message left with FedEx was not returned. An Amazon spokesman said he had no details to provide about the company's interest in Philadelphia's air-shipping expansion.

The air-freight company with the most significant current Philadelphia foothold is United Parcel Service Inc., which employs 3,100 at a hub on 212 acres along Hog Island Road. It includes a 681,000-square-foot sorting building and a 50-acre aircraft ramp.

Brandon Stallard, chief executive of Troy, Mich.-based supply chain management company TPS Logistics, said he can imagine the facility being used by pharmaceutical companies to rush drugs to market or by car manufacturers speeding auto equipment from cargo ships to their final U.S. destinations during recalls.

"There's just a heck of a lot of volume that happens on the East Coast," said Stallard, who is not involved with the proposal.

Airport officials are beginning preliminary work on the project, such as determining whether any environmental remediation or wetland habitat restoration work will be needed, Tyrell said. The project also will require working with Delaware County and Tinicum Township to relocate Tinicum Island Road, which separates the Henderson land from the airport itself.

Harold Epps, director of the city's Commerce Department, which operates the airport, said he sees the air-freight expansion plan, along with the deepening of the Delaware River navigation channel and updates to the Port of Philadelphia's terminals, as part of a larger effort to take advantage of the city's central location along the mid-Atlantic Seaboard.

With flight paths and shipping lanes much less crowded than those in the New York and Washington areas, Philadelphia should be an attractive gateway to the densely populated region, Epps said.

"We have just under-leveraged our location and our assets at both ports, and now we're beginning to recognize the value they can add to the supply chain," Epps said. "Our location gives us a significant capability to be a feeder for the region and the rest of the state."Mark Steckel is offering $50 a month high-speed fixed-wireless internet in the river wards in Philadelphia, competing with Comcast and Verizon. He distributes the broadband over rooftop antennas such as the one here on the former Dow building on Independence Mall. Read more

Mark Steckel pushes open a heavy metal door to the roof of the former Dow building on Independence Mall. Sunlight floods the passageway as he climbs the final steps of a metal ladder and steps onto a flat white roof. Steckel gestures toward Fishtown and the Delaware River.

"You see it," Steckel said, pointing toward a water tank emblazoned with his antennas on a building a couple of miles away that serves as the main broadcast hub for his $50-a-month PhillyWisper high-speed internet service.

When Americans think of wireless, they mostly think of smartphones or free television. But advances in technology and more efficient use of spectrum have opened up the possibility of delivering wireless high-speed internet.

Small wireless internet service providers, or "wisps," are utilizing a combination of unlicensed and licensed spectrum, stitched together with antenna networks, to compete with incumbent broadband providers such as Comcast and Verizon. Wisps have existed for years, mostly in rural parts of America, but seem to be moving into urban areas.

"We're just growing by word of mouth, and we are really busy," Steckel said. The three-year-old PhillyWisper  which tells customers on its website to "Declare Your Internet Independence" and "Just Say No to Big Wire"  has a "few hundred" customers in Fishtown, Kensington, Northern Liberties, and the area around Temple University, Steckel said. Mentions on community Facebook groups also have helped spread the word on PhillyWisper, which is modeled on a San Francisco wisp, Monkey Brains, that Steckel used when he lived there.

Steckel barters and cajoles for Philadelphia rooftops, exchanging free or deeply discounted internet with building owners for the right to place his antennas. Thursday morning, he was taking a chainsaw to a tree that had entwined a 1930s radio tower in Port Richmond to determine whether he could put one of his broadband antennas on it. There needs to be a clear "line of sight" between PhillyWisper's broadcast antennas and antennas at homes and businesses.

Steckel and his PhillyWisper partner, John Falcone, both veterans of start-ups outside Philadelphia, recently hired their first employee, Becky Wolinsky. The business plan calls for PhillyWisper to expand to South and West Philadelphia and grow to 10,000 customers over several years, Steckel said.

"You get into an arms race if you sell on speed and price, and we don't want to do that," Steckel said. "We want to focus on customer service and a positive customer relationship."

PhillyWisper has no contracts and says it won't sell personal data or browsing histories. The company has implemented net neutrality  no blocking of websites or throttling traffic, no fast-speed lanes  as it were the "law of the land," Steckel said.

Customers are responsible to purchase their own WiFi routers as opposed to leasing. It costs $200 for an installation, which comes with a free first month of service. The cost thereafter is $50 a month, with no additional fees or taxes.

PhillyWisper promises minimum speeds of 25 megabits per second. The actual speed to customers is faster, Steckel said. "We promise a minimum but give you more," he said of PhillyWisper's marketing strategy.

Steckel says a lot of the traffic is from Netflix, which recommends 5 megabits per second for high definition quality and 25 megabits per second for ultra high definition quality.

Fishtown resident John Spetrino, who owns the architectural design firm FK Productions at American and Lehigh Streets, said he was PhillyWisper's second customer and is happy with it. Not only does he have PhillyWisper at his business but also at home. Denise, his wife, has it at the Fishtown Montessori School at 307 E. Girard Ave., of which she is the owner and head of school.

"I can text Mark and he gets back to me in 10 to 20 minutes, even on weekends," Spetrino, 33, said. "Once you get that grassroots service, there's no stopping it."

"Ready to Soar," a 32-page industry report on wisps published last year, said there were 2,000 wisp companies delivering service to about four million customers nationwide. The largest is Rise Broadband, based in Englewood, Colo., with about 200,000 customers. The typical wisp serves 1,200 customers.

Jimmy Schaeffler, analyst with the consulting firm Carmel Group in California, which produced the 32-page report, compared fixed wireless to the cable industry in its early days. Capacity constraints limited the number of channels those systems could carry. Then came digital and the 500-channel lineup. In the same way, technology advances have made it possible to deliver super-fast internet speeds over fixed wireless networks.

The wisp economics also make sense. The time it takes to recoup the initial investment to extend a fixed-wireless network to a broadband customer, or the payback period, is about a year, the report says. The same payback for a fiber such as Verizon's Fios is five years.

Consumer acceptance, technology, public policy, and spectrum "are all lining up at the same time," Schaeffler said. "The public does not know the value of this relative to cable and satellite, and they don't know the capability of the technology."

PhillyWisper and other wisps offer two types of service: point-to-point for high-data users such as universities or businesses, and point-to-multi-point service to many homes.

One of PhillyWisper's point-to-point customers is Indy Hall, a co-working space with 350 members for software coders and technology freelancers at Fourth and Market Streets. Alex Hillman, Indy Hall's co-founder, said he switched Indy Hall's internet service to PhillyWisper from Comcast last August after repeated run-ins over service issues.

Hillman said he has been pleased with PhillyWisper's reliability. Weather does not seem to knock out the service, as it does with satellite television. "It's the only proactive customer support I have had from a utility-like company," he said. "It is almost too good to be true. There is no runaround and if there is something wrong, there is an apology."

Hillman added that he had not run into "bottlenecks or speed issues."If you seek profits on a "triple bottom line," you're what's called an impact investor. That means you're interested in putting money into companies that generate positive social and environmental impact plus financial returns.

The investment strategy is alive and well in Philadelphia: just ask Jason Ingle of Closed Loop Capital, a venture capital fund in Radnor investing in agriculture technology start-ups such as BeyondMeat. Closed Loop founders James Macon and Ingle, a great-great grandson of Henry Ford, invested in BeyondMeat when the plant-based meat company was valued at tens of millions of dollars in 2012.

More recently, General Mills and Tyson, both giants in the mainstream food industry, invested in BeyondMeat, as did the actor and activist Leonardo DiCaprio, Twitter cofounders Biz Stone and Evan Williams, former McDonald's CEO Don Thompson, Honest Tea founder Seth Goldman, the Kleiner Perkins venture capital firm, and the Humane Society of the United States.

How does Closed Loop make money? Invest at the start-up level and wait for industry to catch up.

"Tyson is an old-school meat company, and has acquired a 5 percent stake in BeyondMeat that valued the start-up in the hundreds of millions of dollars," Ingle said. "That's how we exit  get the attention of the big traditional companies and make money while investing in something we believe in."

Other local agricultural giants like Camden-based Campbell Soup are also "disrupting from the inside."

"They left the Grocery Manufacturers Association, and that was profound," Ingle said. "I would also consider Campbell's now an ESG [enrivonment, social, and governance] investor."

Separately, Ingle is one of 100 or so founding members of a group that calls itself "the ImPact." Other members include Liesel Pritzker Simmons, an heir to the Hyatt Hotels fortune, and Justin Rockefeller, great-great-grandson of John D. Rockefeller.

"No amount of philanthropy or foreign aid will solve the problems the world faces," said ImPact CEO Abigail Noble. "We need to use businesses and capital markets," she told Money magazine.

For Main Street investors, there are mutual funds that invest based on ESG, such as the Arabesque Systematic USA Fund (ASUIX), launched in May 2017, and the Pax Ellevate Global Women's Index Fund (PXWIX). Kelly Coyne, vice president of Global Women's Strategies at Impax Asset Management, is responsible for national sales and marketing of the Pax Ellevate Global Women's Index Fund.

The fund's top holdings look much like other traditional mutual funds: Microsoft, Texas Instruments, KeyCorp, Facebook, and Principal Financial Group. Why those companies? "There's an optimization process where we give a larger weight to those with the best gender ranking," Coyne said.

#MeToo marketing

No mistake: 2017 was also the year some massive asset managers voted against certain companies where boards consisted only of men. PriceWaterhouse, in its most recent corporate director survey, noted "gender diversity on corporate boards has also become a clear priority for institutional investors in 2017." State Street also launched the exchange-traded fund SSGA Gender Diversity Index (symbol: SHE), which tracks U.S. companies that are leaders in advancing women through gender diversity on their boards of directors and in management.

Coyne and others in Philadelphia's ESG investing world will congregate here at an April 26-27 event, the "Total Impact Conference," hosted by Good Capital and ImpactPHL. For more information and tickets to the event, which takes place at the Cira Centre, visit Good Capital Project's website: https://www.goodcapitalproject.com.

Other ESG avenues: Philadelphia hosts the most active chapter of Investors' Circle, an early-stage impact-investing network. The Sustainable Business Network, founded here more than a decade ago by local trailblazer Judy Wicks, serves as a national model for promoting triple-bottom-line companies, as do B Corporation, GoodCompany Ventures, the Reinvestment Fund, the Wharton Social Impact Initiative, the Philadelphia chapter of Net Impact, and private foundations such as Barra, Kind, GreenLight, and William Penn.

Tracy Maeter, global investment specialist at JPMorgan Private Bank Philadelphia, said ESG has been a "topic of increasing interest from both institutional and private clients, and as an industry the global sustainable investment market reached $23 trillion at the start of 2016, or approximately a quarter of all professionally managed assets globally."

However, "every discussion is different, as the interpretation of ESG is very personal. In the early days negative screening was the rather blunt instrument that was used by investors to restrict holdings in companies and industries that did not meet their ethical or environmental priorities," she said. Now the conversation includes nuanced screening and proactive selection, thematic investing such as water, alternative energy, education, or health care, "as well as impact investing which seeks to intentionally generate positive social and environmental impact alongside financial return."Columnist Christine Flowers writes, When you have people like Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg making the movement all about female empowerment, it becomes even more important to tell the other side of the issue, one that might not advance a feminist narrative but which needs to be told if we are going to be honest about victimization and abuse. Read more

In the mid-1960s, I knew an elderly Greek fellow who tended to fig trees in front of his home at the end of our block in Logan. My recollections of our neighbor are hazy, but the thing that sticks with me is how gentle he was.

Years later, I learned that his wife would throw things at him, or yell through the night when he did something that angered her. He lived with her, and never complained. He never had the chance to file a restraining order, or jump onto social media for his own #MeToo moment. Like many men of his generation, he suffered in silence.

About 20 years ago, when I first started practicing immigration law, a man came for a consultation. At first, I couldn't put my finger on what made him so familiar, because we'd never met before. He was an Algerian immigrant, and told me about his U.S. citizen wife. It hit me: The look in his eyes and the hunched shoulders reminded me of my old neighbor.

It turns out that my future client was a victim of emotional and physical spousal abuse. He had no photos, no police reports, only his word and proof that his wife was a convicted drug offender. Little by little, I was able to piece together his tragic story, one that started with her threatening to call immigration and have him deported if he didn't keep funding her drug habit, and ended with her taking a knife and stabbing him in the arm.

We were able to get him a green card based on a law that protects the abused immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens. That law was passed under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), but extended its protections to spouses of either gender.

I've done a number of these petitions over the years  most of them on behalf of men.

I tell you this to highlight the other side of the #MeToo movement. When you have people like Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg focusing on the benefits to women, it becomes even more important to tell the other side of the issue, one that might not advance a feminist narrative but which needs to be told if we are going to be honest about victimization and abuse.

The #MeToo movement started out as an attack on Hollywood and expanded to politics, taking down people like Judge Roy Moore and Sen. Al Franken, who, in my opinion, should never have resigned.

But when some women suggested that it didn't matter if innocent men were swept away in the rip currents of the movement, as long as the patriarchy was destroyed and women were heard, I realized we are witnessing a movement where due process is optional and men are put on the defensive. According to some women, there is no room for the suggestion that men can be victims of false accusations and real assaults.

I'm sensitive to this refusal to look at men as potential victims, given my work and my personal relationships with people who have been on the wrong side of a baseless accusation. I just won an immigration case where a former refugee from Africa had been falsely accused of sexual assault and who barely escaped deportation. And I've handled VAWA cases where women have been the aggressors.

Two high-profile cases are now in the public eye. Rob Porter has been accused, credibly, of spousal abuse. While he is entitled to due process, there is reason to believe he assaulted his two ex-wives. David Sorenson has also been accused by his ex-wife, and he has fought back by claiming she is the one who abused him.

Predictably, most people refuse to even acknowledge he could be a victim. It is this toxic bias that prevents so many men from admitting they've been abused, whether out of embarrassment or the resignation that they won't be deemed credible.

It's time to turn #MeToo into #MenToo.Ashton Carter (seated) and (left to right:) Corinna Burns, Tina Brock, Bob Schmidt, and Paul McElwee in Time Remembered, through March 4 at the Walnut Street Theatre Studio 5. Read more

Time Remembered, Jean Anouilh's charming play being performed through March 4 by the Idiopathic Ridiculopathy Consortium at Walnut Street Theatre Studio 5, is about that particularly French literary obsession, the past, which Beckett called in his essay on Proust "the calamity of yesterday." But although this play is about the calamity of l'amour perdu, it is, oddly, also a comedy about l'amour found.

There is a duchess (the pitch-perfect Tina Brock), an "extremely influential old woman and ludicrously rich" who still who talks to her husband the duke although he's been dead for 15 years. She dotes on her nephew, Price Albert (Ashley Carter), who has never recovered from falling in love with a ballerina named Leocadia, who died, Isadora Duncan-style, by scarf. He is suicidally miserable. The duchess, to cheer him up (the logic is bizarre, but never mind) has had all the places of their romance reconstructed on her vast estate.

To complete the illusion, she hires a Parisian milliner, Amanda (Katherine Perry) to impersonate the dancer. Amanda discovers that everyone who works on the estate has been hired as a "souvenir," enacting the prince's past. Although this charade does not exactly rescue Albert from the sadness of the past, it does provide him with a happy present as he discovers the living woman in front of him.

If we keep in mind that the play was written in 1940, when France was occupied by the Nazis, the exchange between Amanda and the taxi driver ("Are you free?" "Of course I am free, am I not a Frenchman?") takes on resonance. We should realize, all these years later, that this seemingly frothy play must have had pointed political overtones. Along the way, we meet a variety of characters, some servants, some aristocracy, played with a variety of costumes and hairdos and accents by Corinna Burns, Thomas-Robert Irvin, Paul McElwee, and Bob Schmidt.

Jack Tamburri directs. The costumes and set (designed by Erica Hoelscher) remind us not only of the long-ago past but also, as somebody carries onto the stage a plant made of a painted piece of wood, of the fraudulence of theater.

Best dialogue in the show: "Are you mute?" "Yes."FOX 29s Alex Holley shares personal stories connected to Black History Month and her relationship with her grandfather. Read more

This February, Philly.com's Instagram account will be handed off to several black Philadelphia figures who will use it to share experiences and stories that connect them to Black History Month.

FOX 29 Good Day Philadelphia anchor Alex Holley took control of the account first, choosing to highlight the impact that African-Americans have had on Philadelphia, and the sites around the city that remind her of that influence on a daily basis. Holley came to town in 2014 to co-anchor FOX 29's morning newscast. In that time, she has explored Philadelphia and immersed herself in the culture on her way to becoming the city's new "it" anchor.

Among the places she highlighted: Philadelphia's statue of civil rights activist Octavius V. Catto. Catto fought for equality in the aftermath of the Civil War and successfully protested to desegregate trolleys in Philadelphia while fighting to bring the vote to black citizens.

That only begins to scratch the surface of the impact Catto had on this city, this country and on Holley.

Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is another Philadelphia landmark that Holley enjoys visiting.

The church was founded in 1787 by Richard Allen.

Allen was born into slavery and worked to buy his freedom. He founded the AME denomination, allowing African-Americans to have a home of worship without oppression, and was a pillar in the fight to abolish slavery.

Two years ago, a U.S. stamp was released to honor Allen and a ceremony was held in the church that Holley recommends you visit.

Philadelphians are seeing a few new pieces of art around town. Nine to be exact.

High school students throughout the city helped to decorate several statues of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., drawing on his legacy to inspire them.

Holley has seen a few of them around Philadelphia already, but she isn't done yet.

Holley's connection to Black History Month goes beyond the symbols and monuments that she spends time visiting in Philadelphia.

It also lives in her relationship with her grandfather.

While in Washington D.C., Holley had the opportunity to report from National Museum of African American History and Culture.

The history that she was learning about, her grandfather lived, giving him the ability to shed light on things in a way no textbook ever could.

That passing down of knowledge, from one generation to another, is something that has created a strong bond for Holley and her grandfather. It has helped her learn about just how far African-Americans have come in this country.

Follow Philly.com's Instagram account and be on the lookout for more Instagram takeovers as Black History Month continues. Share your thoughts, questions and stories in the comments of the posts.

More Black History Month Instagram takeovers:

Rahel Solomon

Chill Moody

Patty JacksonMorning, noon, or night, any day of the week, crowds stroll New Orleans' Bourbon Street with electric-red drinks in hand.

In the Big Easy, where public drinking is legal, ruby-red (or orange, depending on how much grenadine is in the mix), rum-heavy Hurricane cocktails have become synonymous with the city's oldest neighborhood, the French Quarter. It's there where Bourbon Street stretches, 13-blocks-long and continuously filled with a celebratory crowd.

On Mardi Gras  this year on Feb. 13  Bourbon Street turns into a literal hurricane of spirited revelers decked out in colorful clothes and necklaces of neon beads. Hurricane cocktails, poured into 20-ounce oval flutes, keep the post-parade party alive, as people from all over gather into the wee hours of the morning.

While the sazerac is the official cocktail of New Orleans (and you'll find many Mardi-Gras-goers sipping on that, too), the quick-to-creep-up-on-you Hurricane ranks high among the most popular intoxicating beverages consumed during Fat Tuesday celebrations and beyond, with a history that dates back more than 70 years.

Story has it that the Hurricane originated in the mid-1940s at Pat O'Brien's Bar. (The spot still sells the drink to a tourist-heavy crowd.) At the time, liquors such as whiskey, bourbon, and scotch were in short supply, and distributors had more rum than they could manage to sell. In order to purchase single cases of other liquors, bar owners were forced to buy upward of 50 cases of rum. To get rid of the excess, Pat O'Brien created the Hurricane, a sweet, rum-heavy drink that sold surprisingly well to patrons, both then and now.

So what exactly is inside the bold and bright drink? We spoke with Craig Blankenship from Philly's own New Orleans' inspired bar, Khyber Pass Pub, to find out what makes up that mysterious and conspicuously inebriating liquid and how to make your own.

"It's the over-proofed rum that pushes it over the top," Blankenship said. "Mixing a cocktail with that, as opposed to a lower-proof cordial, is what makes the drink higher in alcohol than most drinks. Yet it's fruity and delicious, so you don't really notice the alcohol."

The drink is surprisingly easy to recreate, so as you think about your own plans for Mardi Gras right here in the City of Brother Love, consider whipping up a batch to celebrate with friends.

Blankenship's recipe is designed to serve a crowd, but if you're planning on a more intimate celebration, check out the second recipe, from Khyber's next-door neighbor, Royal Boucherie.

Bar manager Dominic Carullo fancies things up a bit with Gold Rhum Agricole and a homemade passion fruit syrup. The result: an elegant but still boozy pink drink served on the rocks with a lime wedge and a cherry.

If you prefer to skip the home-mixology, head to Khyber Pass Pub on Tuesday for $5 frozen Hurricanes, all day long, and a performance by the West Philadelphia Orchestra during happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Or check out one of these parties going down in Philadelphia.Memorial card for Casey Fay Berrian with her quote, given to guests at her memorial service at the William Way LGBT Community Center on Feb. 4 Read more

On the afternoon of Super Bowl Sunday, just hours before Philadelphia erupted into victory-fueled joy, about 100 people came together for another kind of gathering. One that has become far more common, with no end in sight.

They had come to the William Way LGBT Community Center to mourn Casey Fay Berrian  a fierce, funny woman, deeply troubled yet unexpectedly kind. She loved dancing, Doc Martens boots, her dog Toby Roo, and her many friends. The GoMeFund page for her memorial stated Berrian, who died of a drug overdose on Jan. 8, was a "tough woman who had been fighting a battle with the disease of addiction for a very long time." She was two weeks from her 41st birthday.

She was among the first to die this year in an overdose epidemic expected to outstrip 2017, when at least 1,200 people in Philadelphia died.

The toxicology report is not yet complete, but Berrian's friends say heroin most likely killed her.

Instead of suggesting flowers, the friends who organized her memorial collected donations for Narcan. Their hope is to help Prevention Point, the Kensington needle exchange, finance the opioid overdose-reversal medication. They are still taking donations on the GoMeFund page.

"It has become more common," Prevention Point executive director Jose Benitez said of such efforts. "People are doing this in memory of their loved ones."

Often, those people aren't blood relations. Many in addiction become estranged from their families because of the pain they have caused. Others come from homes fraught with dysfunction or abuse. So some form families of choice.

"The people Casey met and formed close relationships with were her family  her chosen family," said Marcelle, a restaurant worker in recovery. She and others in this article declined to be identified due to privacy and stigma concerns.

Berrian was a chronic relapser, but she sought out recovery again and again.

"Every time she fell, she got back up," said Nik, a nurse and recovery friend.

Berrian, for all her exterior toughness, was haunted by demons, some she may have been born with, others possibly rooted in a childhood many described as unsettled and chaotic.

"I think Casey, even though she was 40 years old, was a lost child," said Nancy Berrian Bohnsack, 68, Berrian's paternal aunt who lives in Germantown, N.Y. "She wanted to do so much better."

Born in New York's Dutchess County, Berrian was very young when her parents split, her aunt said.

"Casey had a very confused childhood," said Bohnsack.

As a little girl, she was the kind of child who worried how the squirrels would stay warm in the winter. But by the time she was a teenager, her alcohol and drug troubles had already begun, said Bohnsack, who took her in briefly.

None of Berrian's family attended her memorial. It wasn't clear whether there will be a family service.

Once an aspiring social worker who ended up cleaning houses, Berrian volunteered at hospitals to help others in addiction, especially newcomers.

"It's ironic because sometimes she came across as so scary and mean," said Erin, another recovery friend and nurse, "but when it came to a newcomer, she wasn't like that at all."

"She was brutally honest," said a former roommate who once stole money from her. Berrian was angry, but was more concerned about helping the friend realize that honesty is part of recovery.

"Casey is the one that showed me I have a vicious problem with being honest," said the friend, now two years sober and a legal/medical consultant.

Berrian also had a creative side. She recited poetry. She painted a version of van Gogh's Starry Night on the inside of a cereal box. And she loved to dance  alone or in a crowd.

Her friend Erin performed in the Mummers Parade one year. Berrian showed up. That she had no costume didn't bother her.

"She met me on Broad Street, and she danced the whole parade with me as herself," she said.

"She had this love of life," said another friend, a lawyer about three decades sober.

He saw her last at a community Thanksgiving dinner. She confided she'd relapsed but seemed more worried about a friend who was also using. Less than two months later, she was gone.

"Casey didn't do this to us; her addiction did this to her and to us," said the lawyer. "It's the nature of addiction. It's a rapacious beast."

Nearly 100 people showed up for Berrian's memorial. Friends spoke; the roommate who once stole from her sang "Amazing Grace"; another friend played the piano.

Her spirituality, like much else about her, defied classification. So the service also had a Buddhist reading, a Christian psalm, a Wiccan comfort prayer, and words borrowed from a 19th-century Hasidic rabbi: "God is found wherever He is given entry. God is found in the broken places."

Then, with the last speaker done, an organizer called the mourners to their feet as music began to play:

"Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake your body line "

Harry Belafonte pulsed through the hall as a conga line formed, hesitantly at first, but then with something like joy:

"Shake, shake, shake, Senora, shake it all the time "

The friends couldn't help but laugh. If Berrian had been there, they said, she would have been at the head of the line.Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visits the homes of impoverished villagers of the Yi ethnic group who live deep in the Daliang Mountains of Zhaojue County, Sichuan Province in southwest China, Feb. 11, 2018. Xi asked the villagers about their lives and discussed poverty alleviation with local officials and villagers on Sunday. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the homes of impoverished villagers of the Yi ethnic group in the Daliang Mountains of southwest China's Sichuan Province on Sunday, days before the country celebrates Spring Festival, its most important holiday.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, asked the villagers about their lives and discussed poverty alleviation with local officials and villagers.

For the sixth year in a row, Xi's Lunar New Year inspection tour has taken him to the front lines of China's war against poverty.

He visited northwestern Gansu Province in 2013, northern Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in 2014, northwestern Shaanxi Province in 2015, eastern Jiangxi Province in 2016, and Hebei Province in 2017.

The poor have been Xi's foremost concern. In his 2018 New Year speech, the word "people" appeared most frequently and he emphasized the "well-being" of the Chinese people, showing the president's people-centered governance philosophy.

Chinese leaders have made it a tradition to visit ordinary people across the country ahead of Spring Festival, the most important family holiday in the Chinese calendar.

During one of the Spring Festival inspections, Xi bought festival gifts before visiting old acquaintances in the village where he worked as an "educated youth." During other trips, he went to farmers' barns and kitchens, calculated revenues and expenses with villagers and offered advice on increasing income.

The trips reflect his concerns.

While holding discussions with lawmakers from Sichuan during the annual session of the National People's Congress in March 2017, Xi said that it was a heartbreaking moment when he read about people from a village there who had to climb dangerous mountains every day.

One year later, he went to the mountainous area, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, home to China's largest Yi community. With a distinct language and culture, the Yi minorities are among the poorest in China.

"To lead the people to a better life is our goal. Not a single ethnic group, family or person should be left behind in the process of finishing the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects," Xi told villagers in Liangshan.

China is striving to become a "moderately prosperous society in all respects" by 2020, just before the centennial anniversary of the founding of the CPC.

That means all rural residents living below the current poverty line should be lifted out of poverty by 2020. It will be the first time in China's thousands of years of history that extreme poverty is eliminated.

"It is our solemn promise," Xi said in his 2018 New Year address.

The number of people living in poverty in rural areas was reduced by over 10 million in 2017.

Xi has listed "committing to a people-centered approach" as one of the fundamental principles in his report delivered at the 19th CPC National Congress in October 2017.

When he presented the new CPC central leadership to the press on Oct. 25, 2017, Xi said that the Party must remain committed to a people-centered philosophy of development and make steady progress toward enhancing the people's sense of fulfillment and realizing common prosperity for everyone.Heather Cochran, left, of Philadelphia, and Jenn Griffith, right, wanted to spend a little time at Dirty Franks bar to honor their friend Sheila Modglin, alLongtime Dirty Franks bartender who was struck by a car late Thursday night. Read more

When the regulars at Dirty Frank's heard the news, they did the first thing they could think to do: They went to the bar.

Through Facebook and text messages and the regulars' grapevine, word had spread quickly over the weekend: Sheila Modglin, a bartender at the iconic dive on South 13th Street for more than 30 years, had been seriously injured after being struck by a car Thursday night. She was in a medically induced coma in critical condition in the intensive-care unit at Einstein Medical Center, suffering from head trauma and other serious injuries.

To the regulars, to her coworkers, to the strangers stepping into the crowded bar for the first time, Modglin is as much a part of Dirty Frank's as the knickknacks on the wall and the laminate booths and the citywide specials. "Her energy is contagious," said Heather Cochran, who has been coming to the bar for 10 years. "Love and light in a human person," said Jen Griffith, who hadn't been back to Dirty Frank's in a year but showed up as soon as she heard that Modglin had been injured.

"When she got here, right away, she sparkled," said Van Youngman, who was already a 20-year patron of the bar when Modglin started work there. "One of a kind."

As customers sipped beers and reminisced, bartender Abigail Willinborg wiped away tears. A man, headed to the other side of the bar, patted their backs on his way past. "We have to stay positive," he said.

Modglin, 56, had worked a shift for the Eagles' victory parade on Thursday, decked out in green eyeshadow and layers of Eagles gear. Just after 10 p.m., she took a cab to a friend's house in Mount Airy, where she was dog sitting, her brother Rich said. She got out of the taxi early and tried to cross mid-block on Lincoln Drive near Cliveden Street.

A 2015 Kia being driven by a 77-year-old man hit her as she crossed the street, police said. The man called 911 and waited with her until an ambulance arrived. "He did everything he could, and we have prayers for him, as well," Rich Modglin said.

At Einstein, a nurse who used to live above Dirty Frank's recognized Modglin's name on a patient list and called the bar.

"It is amazing how many people know her everywhere. She truly spread love," Rich Modglin said. He had been at the bar with his sister before her shift ended that night, and raced to the hospital when co-owner Jody Sweitzer called him with the news.

He and Modglin's five sisters have spent most of their waking hours at the hospital since Thursday, trading shifts with Sweitzer and the other bartenders, who have been reading to her in hopes that familiar voices will soothe her.

"I'm going to be there until she opens her eyes  and after, of course," Sweitzer said. "I'm going to sit here and read and read and read, and let her know she's not alone. And that's easy."

Sweitzer, who started working at Dirty Frank's about five years after Modglin, is an only child, and considers Modglin the closest thing she's ever had to a sister. Over three decades working together, she said, Modglin won hearts for the way she'd coax stories out of the newcomers who bellied up to the bar, how she'd twirl when a good song came on the jukebox, how excited she got for the special events the bar hosted.

Oscars night was her favorite: Modglin worked as an actress in between shifts, performing in avant-garde theater productions around the city. One or two regulars were usually in the audience.

Her passion for the arts led her to launch Sunshine Arts, an after-school program in Upper Darby that began with impromptu storytelling sessions in her front yard in 2004 and expanded to an artist-in-residence program that has offered art classes to neighborhood kids throughout the year.

"She was the engine," Rich Modglin said.

On Sunday, he was fielding calls from well-wishers around the city and waiting for news from doctors at Episcopal. They'll know more, he said, when the swelling in his sister's brain subsides.

Back at Dirty Frank's, Willinborg handed Cochran a beer and tried to compose herself. She'd been crying on and off since Saturday, when she first realized how badly Modglin had been injured. She was trying to pull together at work but it was hard, she said, with everyone coming in, asking about Sheila. "It's the warmest, most community bar I've ever worked in," Willinborg said. "And everyone's devastated."

Cochran recalled when she'd heard the news on Friday night: She'd immediately texted her boyfriend, who runs the bar's softball team. "He was working, and he was, like, 'OK, I'll meet you at Frank's," she said. "For some people, it's just this dive. But for us, it's family. When something happens, you go home to your family."

Sheila Modglin's family is accepting donations to pay for her medical bills via check made out to Kathy Kalifut, 27 Paper Mill Rd., Springfield, Pa. 19064. The bar is planning a fund-raiser for her on March 4, Oscars night. Donations can also be sent to Sunshine Arts at sunshine-arts.org/giving.This cover image released by Greenwillow Books shows "Hello, Universe," by Erin Entrada Kelly, which won the John Newbery Medal for the outstanding childrenas book of 2017. Read more

The American Library Association announced Monday that Philadelphia author Erin Entrada Kelly has won the John Newbery Medal for the outstanding children's book of 2017 for Hello, Universe, a story about a diverse group of unlikely friends who form an alliance to take down a school bully after a prank gone wrong. The story is rooted in Filipino folk tales and is geared for ages 9 and up.

Kelly, who was raised in Louisiana, has written three other critically acclaimed books, including Blackbird Fly (2015) and The Land of Forgotten Girls (2016). She also writes short fiction and has been nominated for the Philippines Free Press Literary Award for Short Fiction. Kelly graduated from McNeese State University and identifies as Filipina American.

Kelly was driving on I-95 when she found out, a half hour before the honor was announced.

"I was understandably shocked.  I was floored, amazed, it was a tremendous honor. Still in a lot of shock. There are different bloggers who put out who they hope will win; cautious optimism is kind of my modus operandi. I knew people were talking about it, but you never actually think you're going to win something this big," Kelly said.

She said the diversity of this year's honorees was a long time coming. "To me, [diversity] is important because as I was growing up, I didn't see a lot of immigrants or Filipinos, certainly. I didn't see myself. So the thought that there are young people who can pick up a book today and see themselves in those pages is so powerful," Kelly said. "It's also powerful for young people to be reading about people outside of their cultures. The honor that this platform provides is incredible. Another thing that is really incredible to me is the opportunity to introduce Filipino culture to young people who don't have enough of it. It means more than I can put into words."

The Newbery, the highest honor a children's book can receive, is awarded by the American Library Association. Winners include Madeline L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time, about to be made into a movie by Academy Award-nominated director Ava DuVernay, and Katherine Paterson's Bridge to Terabithia.

Jacqueline Woodson received the Laura Ingalls Wilder award for lifetime achievement. Woodson is the author of Brown Girl Dreaming, One Book, One Philadlephia's 2018 middle grade selection.

This year's Randolph Caldecott Medal for best illustration went to Matthew Cordell for his story of a girl and the wolf pup she saves in Wolf in the Snow. Nina LaCour's We Are Okay was given the Michael L. Printz Award for best young adult literature. Angie Thomas' The Hate U Give, one of last year's top-selling young adult novels, was cited twice. It won a William C. Morris Award for best debut book for teens and an Odyssey Award for best audio book.

Renee Watson's Piecing Me Together won the Coretta Scott King Award for outstanding book by an African American. The King Award for best illustrator went to Ekua Holmes for Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets. Eloise Greenfield, whose dozens of books include Honey, I Love and In the Land of Words, won the King Award for lifetime achievement.

The Pura Belpre Award for best Latino book went to Lucky Broken Girl by Ruth Behar. The Pura Belpre illustrator prize went to Juana Martinez-Neal and La Princesa and the Pea.

This article contains information from the Associated Press.An inmate at the Ocean County (N.J.) Jail has been charged with conspiracy for allegedly offering to pay $30,000 to have his lawyer kidnapped, taken to a wooded area, and shot in the head, and then have the body set on fire and the remains disposed of in a body of water.

Michael Nocera, 43, of Beachwood, N.J., who had been in custody since late August on charges of aggravated sexual assault, child pornography, and endangering a child, all involving a victim under age 13, talked about what he wanted done to his lawyer while he was an inmate, according to Al Della Fave, a spokesman for the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.

The investigation began in late December, when the Prosecutor's Office was made aware of Nocera's conversations while he was awaiting trial. He was arrested on the new charges on Thursday, and remains at the jail.

Della Fave declined to identify the attorney whom Nocera allegedly targeted, or discuss the specifics of what Nocera is charged with.A bound man was set afire in this car on the 5400 block of Westford Road, in the Olney section of Philadelphia, on Monday, Feb. 12, 2018. Read more

Police are looking for three attackers who abducted a man at gunpoint, bound him, and then set him on fire inside his car Monday morning in Philadelphia's Olney section.

The victim was reported in critical condition at Temple University Hospital.

The three male assailants grabbed the 33-year-old Sunday night at Benner Street and Harbison Avenue in Wissinoming, bound his hands, and put him in his 2006 Pontiac, police said.

Capt. Mark Burgmann of the Special Victims Unit told reporters the three men drove him around in his car for several hours, all the while using the victim's phone, calling and texting to demand ransom from his family. "We did learn that a family member did begin to receive messages from our victim's phone from the people that abducted him demanding $10,000," Burgmann said.

About 5:40 a.m., the Pontiac stopped on the 5400 block of Westford Road in Olney. There, the three men poured gasoline on the man and the car, and set both on fire, police said.

Neighborhood residents who heard the man's screams called 911. A medic unit took him to Temple University Hospital with serious burns.

Police classified the incident as a robbery and abduction, but have not disclosed whether or why the man was targeted.Nguyen Dang of Philadelphia shows a sticker in support of anti-deportation activism during the Tet celebration Furness High School in South Philadelphia on Sunday. Read more

The Tet holiday roared into South Philadelphia on Sunday, accompanied by fast-stepping lion dancers and the sweet scent of incense  but also by trepidation over the future of Vietnamese residents who may be vulnerable to deportation.

Hundreds of young, older and elderly people gathered inside a steamy Furness High School gym to welcome the new year with music and song. Children happily accepted lucky-money envelopes, and high school boys pitched balls at tin-can targets, trying to impress the girls with their carnival-game prowess.

But on their shirts many wore stickers that declared the neighborhood an "ICE-free zone," warning of unwelcome visits from federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. On the walls, posters in English and Vietnamese offered a checklist of what people should do if federal agents arrive at their door.

The day juxtaposed new year's joy and anti-deportation activism, providing a snapshot of how the nation's immigration policies are rapidly changing and how some of the most vulnerable people are responding  and resisting. Activists say that, in recent months, they have seen roundups of people of Cambodian and Vietnamese heritage, stoking fear, uncertainty and anger.

"This is what a strong community looks like!" Nancy Dung Nguyen, executive director of VietLead, said from the stage. "This is what solidarity looks look!"

Nearby, 18-year-old Toan Vong, a senior at South Philadelphia High, staffed an immigration-information booth, handing out pamphlets and stickers and talking to people about the changing nature of federal enforcement.

"I care about my community, and this is a way I can help them, let people know how to protect themselves," he said.

His colleague, Thy Vu, 22, said she planned to help go door-to-door, canvassing the neighborhood.

"A lot of people in the Vietnamese community don't know what's happening," she said.

The Trump administration's ever-stricter enforcement policies can seem focused on Latino communities, the president having promised to build a wall at the border with Mexico and assailed immigrants from there, labeling them rapists and drug dealers.

But Southeast Asians face their own struggle, one in which the wars and violence of the past continue to shape the present and future. In the 1970s and '80s, more than a million refugees were resettled in the United States as they fled the war in Vietnam, the bombing of Cambodia and Laos, and the Khmer Rouge genocide in Cambodia.

In this country, many suffered  from poverty, post-traumatic stress disorder, lower levels of education, and higher rates of criminalization, according to the Southeast Asia Resource Action Center, known as SEARAC, an advocacy group with offices in California and Washington. Some were convicted of criminal offenses, which generally make foreign nationals liable to deportation.

Historically, Vietnam did not accept deportees from the United States, its old adversary.

That changed in 2008, when the U.S. and Vietnam signed a memorandum of understanding. It allowed for Vietnamese who came to America on or after July 12, 1995  when diplomatic relations were established  to be deported if they had pending orders of removal. Even earlier, in 1996, Congress had passed two laws that broadened the scope of criminal convictions that made both undocumented and legal immigrants subject to deportation.

Now, immigration advocates say they fear the Trump administration is not honoring the memorandum, that anyone who is undocumented, overstayed a visa, or carries an old criminal record is in danger of deportation. Cambodian Americans who had removal orders were detained in October, and the next month SEARAC, VietLead and other groups issued an alert that Vietnamese Americans with final orders could face arrest and deportation.

Almost 16,000 Southeast Asian Americans have received final orders of removal since 1998, of which 78 percent are based on old criminal convictions, according to a SEARAC study.

"Under this White House, everyone is considered a priority for deportation  especially those with prior criminal records," said Katrina Dizon Mariategue, SEARAC's immigration policy manager. "We have heard that we can expect a record number of deportations to Cambodia in 2018."

The administration imposed visa sanctions on Cambodia to push the government to accept more deportees, Dizon Mariategue noted. And it rescinded Obama-era guidelines on prosecutorial discretion, which had enabled advocates and families to argue that a loved one was no threat to public safety and thus not a priority for deportation, she said.

That impacts Philadelphia, where the Southeast Asian population is significant, including about 17,000 Vietnamese, 9,000 Cambodians, 1,100 Laotians, 400 Thai and 77 Hmong.

That diversity was on display at the Furness event, co-sponsored by VietLead and the Vietnamese American Community of Greater Philadelphia.

The day began in silence, as people paused to honor the American and South Vietnamese troops who gave their lives in the war. Then the celebration commenced. The food smelled heavenly and tasted better. Children made paper lanterns, and toddlers were posed for pictures beside the giant papier-mache lion heads.

It's not just the Year of the Dog, organizers said, but the Year of the Underdog  referring not only to the Eagles. A time for strengthening roots and building resilience for what's ahead.

"We're celebrating together, grounding each other, loving each other, and having that energy to move forward," Nguyen said. "2018 is going to be a really important year for this country and this state."North Korea's Samjiyon Orchestra arrived in South Korea by ferry on Tuesday but did not get off and refused to attend a welcome dinner hosted by the South Korean government. They also refused to look around the venue in Gangneung, Gangwon Province where they are scheduled to perform on Thursday. The Unification Ministry did not say exactly why the North Koreans behaved with such bad grace, but they may have been upset by anti-North Korean protests in Mukho port, where their ship is docked. Instead, the 114-strong orchestra including bandleader-cum-apparatchik Hyon Song-wol spent their first night in South Korea holed up on the Mangyongbong-92, which also serves as their accommodation during their stay. The ferry arrived in Mukho at around 4:30 p.m. escorted by a maritime police boat.



The North Korean ferry Mangyongbong-92 arrives in Gangneung, Gangwon Province on Tuesday.

The last time the Mangyongbong-92 came to South Korea was during the Asian Games in Busan in 2002, when the ship carried North Korean cheerleaders. Back then, hundreds of South Korean citizens showed up to welcome the North Koreans. But this time the crowds were mostly conservative activists who waved the South Korean and U.S. flags chanting "Mangyongbong go home!" and "pull down the North Korean flag!" and played the South Korean anthem. Some protesters burned a North Korean flag and ripped up a picture of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Some of the North Koreans aboard the ferry went out on the deck to take photos of the rally. But South Korean government officials also gathered in the port Tuesday morning to greet the North Koreans, having sealed off the entrances and set up metal detectors and guarded gates. Four police squadrons of around 300 officers were deployed for security, and some 150 reporters converged on the scene. Police imposed a no-fly zone around the port on Tuesday afternoon as the Mangyongbong-92 was set to arrive. A government official said, "The measure was taken to prevent accidents caused by the overheated media, which attempted to cover the arrival with helicopters and drones." The orchestra will eat and sleep on the Mangyongbong-92 until they put on their show in Gangneung. They will then move to the luxury Walkerhill Hotel in Seoul before performing at the National Theater of Korea.

Members of North Korea's Samjiyon Orchestra board a train in Pyongyang on Monday.

The musicians left Pyongyang by train on Monday and boarded the Mangyongbong-92 in Wonsan. According to North Korean state radio, leader Kim Jong-un's younger sister Yo-jong attended a farewell ceremony in Pyongyang, demonstrating the high level of interest the North Korean regime has in the performance.

Read this article in KoreanJocelyn Morffi and Natasha Hass had booked the Key Largo Lighthouse estate for three days starting Feb. 2, turning their wedding day into a wedding weekend.

They had a welcome bash at the Florida wedding venue on Friday, a goodbye barbecue on Sunday and their seaside nuptials in between.

The women relayed important messages to their loved ones through their wedding website: Wear semiformal attire; contribute to the honeymoon fund instead of buying gifts; and, of course, use the hashtag #MorffiHassTheKeys.

Morffi's messages were more somber a few days later. On Instagram, she explained to family, friends, and anyone else who wondered why she hadn't showed up at Miami's SS. Peter and Paul Catholic School, where she had been a first-grade teacher for seven years.

"This weekend I married the love of my life and unfortunately I was terminated from my job as a result," she wrote. "In their eyes I'm not the right kind of Catholic for my choice in partner."

Parents learned of the firing in a letter from the school's principal on Thursday evening that did not give a reason for the decision, according to Miami-area news reports. It said only that "a difficult and necessary decision" had been made regarding Morffi, but it didn't provide details. "She is no longer teaching at our school," the letter said. It said students' education wouldn't be disrupted and asked parents "for your continued prayers" for the school.

Instead, about a dozen angry parents showed up at the school the next day, demanding an explanation and speaking to gathered news cameras.

"We were extremely livid. They treated her like a criminal, they didn't even let her get her things out of her classroom," Cintia Cini, whose child was in Morffi's class, told the Miami Herald. Cini and other parents said they didn't know or care about Morffi's sexual orientation. "Our only concern was the way she was with our children, the way she taught our children, and this woman by far was one of the best teachers out there."

For Morffi, who couldn't be reached for comment, the firing was the result of a one-two punch from a religious institution that has drawn a line in the sand against same-sex marriage and a county that doesn't forbid religious institutions from terminating employees who come out as gay or lesbian.

In April 2014, after a judge in Florida lifted the state's ban on same-sex marriage, Archbishop Thomas Wenski, who oversees Miami's Catholic archdiocese, sent a message to all employees, according to the Religion News Service. It said every person employed by the church  regardless of whether that person is a practicing Catholic  is expected to abide by Catholic teaching, including the church's opposition to same-sex marriage. The letter said employees who didn't obey could be punished, even terminated, for such activities "even if it occurs outside the normal working day and outside the strict confines of work performed by the employee for the Archdiocese."

It also included wording that many likened to a don't-ask-don't-tell policy governing social media use: "Employees should exercise discretion when posting on social media sites, and note that online activity indicative of prohibitive behaviors may subject an employee to disciplinary action or termination."

Rep. David Richardson, a Democrat from Miami Beach and the first openly gay member of the Florida House, told Politico that many "may be surprised to learn that you can be fired from your employment not just because of gay marriage but also because you're gay."

The state's discrimination law doesn't cover sexual orientation. A bill by Richardson, HB 347, would ban workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation, but it has repeatedly stalled in the Senate. Miami-Dade County has an ordinance that prevents discrimination based on sexual orientation, but it makes an exception for religious institutions.

Meanwhile, the school is standing by its policy. Mary Ross Agosta, a spokeswoman for the archdiocese, said although Morffi was well-liked, she was fired for violating her contract.

"Any Catholic teacher who signs a contract with the Archdiocese of Miami is acknowledging that policies and procedures will be followed and will abide by the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church," the spokeswoman said in a statement emailed to the Washington Post.

Now, parents at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic School say they are fighting for the reinstatement of a woman who didn't just teach their children to read and right, but also ran a volunteer organization called #teachHope70x7 that enlisted students to distribute meals to the homeless on weekends.

"We were completely outraged, all of the parents," Samantha Mills, whose child was in Morffi's class last year, told the Herald. "This teacher in particular has made such a contribution to the school. She never imposes her personal beliefs on others. She just does everything in love."Amanda Holt is ready to help reduce gerrymandering (again). Read more

She did it once. She's doing it again. The powers that be should pay attention.

I'm serious.

Amanda Holt draws fair and legal maps. Since our pols apparently can't (or won't), they should look to her for direction.

Holt, you may recall, was a 29-year-old, homeschooled, Allentown piano teacher with no college degree when she drew legislative maps that helped end Pennsylvania's last redistricting fight following the 2010 Census.

She did so because of her interest in politics and because she always did puzzles with her grandfather; crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles.

"The bigger and more challenging, the better," she says, adding, "as an avid genealogist, he also helped me to love research. Both skills served me well in redistricting."

Her maps led to a final 2012 map on state legislative districts. Not perfect, but better than what lawmakers tried to ram through. (Much better than the 2012 congressional maps at the center of the current scrum.)

In the process, Holt shook the state's staid political mindset, proving that map-drawing wasn't difficult  if, that is, the goal is adherence to law and fairness to voters rather than protecting partisanship.

Now, six years later, we're all about partisanship: A Democratic court fighting with a Republican legislature over the shape of congressional maps, resulting in an election-year conundrum with potential for chaos.

"It'll be interesting to see how this goes," Holt says.

So far, it isn't going well.

Since the Supreme Court ruled Jan. 22 that maps for our 18 congressional districts (13 held by Republicans) are unconstitutional, there's been a flurry of litigation and threats of more, and jawboning, jitters and confrontation.

The latest is a new map that GOP leaders offered last Friday in an effort to beat a court-ordered deadline. It's a shock, but Democrats don't like it. The fight goes on.

It's messy. A Democratic court says Republicans rigged elections through partisan gerrymandering to help Republicans. Republicans say the Democratic court is rigging the process by overstepping its authority in order to help Democrats.

The heart of the argument is how much politics there should be in politics.

Some say victors get the spoils, elections have consequences; if your party is in power, your party gets to draw maps to further help or protect your party.

Others say fairness is the soul of democracy; there should be as little partisan politics as possible in drawing lines for democratic elections.

Those adhering to the former are OK with map-drawers using voter registration data and voting-trend/voter-performance metrics to gain a partisan edge.

Those clinging to the latter want Holt maps, drawn without political tools, based solely on population and a commitment to not split municipalities.

She calls the latest GOP map better than the current one, but still with too many splits. You can see her suggested map, comments and data at amandae.com.

She's no joke.

With limited resources, she drew maps the court found useful in reducing gerrymandering. She was honored for her work. A public-service award from Common Cause. An Impact Award from the American Association of University Women. The Patriot-News named her its 2012 "Citizen of the Year."

She's now 35, an elected Republican Lehigh County commissioner.

She suggests she can do again what she did before. I suggest people take a look-see.

Otherwise, we face more bickering, more litigation, a constitutional clash, maybe moving the May primary, all while a state House member  Jefferson County GOP Rep. Cris Dush  seeks support for impeaching the five Democratic justices on the seven-member state Supreme Court.

This thing needs to get cooled down, and I mean in a hurry.

It's good that gerrymandering is getting attention from courts, lawmakers and the public. Kudos to the League of Women Voters for its anti-gerrymandering lawsuit, the basis for current focus. Kudos to Fair Districts PA for grassroots work on the issue statewide. But it's time to settle this for the 2018 elections.

Amanda Holt helped once. I bet she could help again.FILE - In this Jan. 31, 2017, file photo, President Donald Trump listens during a meeting with pharmaceutical executives including Celgene Corp.'s Executive Chairman Bob Hugin, second from right, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington. Hugin, who retired from the pharmaceutical firm on Monday, Feb. 5, 2018, announced in a Monday, Feb. 12, 2018, email he will challenge the re-election bid of U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., by competing for the Republican nomination in New Jersey's Tuesday, June 5, 2018, primary against technology consultant Richard Pezzullo. Read more

Robert Hugin, a Republican pharmaceutical executive who has supported former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and President Trump, emerged Monday as the first serious challenger to incumbent U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez.

Hugin is prepared to spend at least $20 million in the campaign, according to a person familiar with his thinking.

That would be the most money spent by a self-funded candidate in a New Jersey Senate race since 2000, when Democrat Jon S. Corzine spent more than $80 million, adjusting for inflation.

Menendez, whose approval ratings plunged as he was under the cloud of a long-running federal investigation, hasn't officially announced his reelection campaign. But with the probe over, his top adviser has said there's a "100 percent" chance he will run.

Federal prosecutors, who initially planned to retry Menendez on bribery charges, said on Jan. 31 that they would drop the case after a judge acquitted the senator of some of the charges. A jury sitting in Newark, N.J., failed to reach a verdict during the first trial, and the judge declared a mistrial in November.

Menendez, 64, had $4.1 million in his campaign account as of Dec. 31.

Hugin, 63, retired late last month as executive chairman of Celgene Corp., a global biopharmaceutical company based in Summit, N.J. A Princeton graduate and Marine Corps veteran who grew up in Union City, he joined the firm in 1999 as chief financial officer and was chief executive from 2010 to 2016.

He is expected to launch his campaign formally on Tuesday with stops in North Jersey and Delran, Burlington County.

Hugin has donated about $2.1 million to state and federal campaigns and committees, most of them affiliated with Republicans, since 2007, public records show.

That includes $250,000 in contributions to a super PAC that supported Christie's unsuccessful 2016 presidential campaign, and more than $100,000 to Trump-affiliated committees.

Hugin also has given to some Democrats  including $4,800 to Menendez in 2010, according to records filed with the Federal Election Commission.

New Jersey voters haven't elected a Republican to the U.S. Senate in more than 40 years.Republican leaders in Pennsylvania's legislature released a map of new congressional districts to replace the current boundaries, which were ruled unconstitutional by the state Supreme Court. Gov. Wolf has until Thursday to approve or reject the plan. Here are the current districts in the Philadelphia area, and how they would look under the new proposal. Read more

HARRISBURG  A proposed new map of Pennsylvania congressional districts may have sanded off some of the rougher edges of the current version, but it still amounts to a pro-Republican gerrymander, a chorus of Democrats complained Saturday as they urged Gov. Wolf to reject it.

The governor, whose administration is combing through the proposal with the advice of a prominent mathematics professor, is expected to announce his position on the new map early this week.

Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati (R., Jefferson) and House Speaker Mike Turzai (R., Allegheny), the leaders of the GOP-controlled legislature, submitted the map Friday night in an effort to meet the deadline in a state Supreme Court order to redraw the current boundaries.

"The map that Republicans put forward last night does practically nothing to fix the partisan gerrymandering that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court found violated the state's constitution," Eric Holder, former U.S. attorney general and chairman of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, said in a statement.

It was the latest turn in a political drama that has gripped the state capital for the last several weeks, one with major potential implications for national politics.

Scarnati and Turzai have said they believe the proposed map complies with the court's order, and their staffers said other factors, such as population and municipal boundaries, received greater weight than political parties when they redrew the map.

By one measure, the map is little changed. In 2016, 12 congressional districts voted for Republican President Trump and six were carried by Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. That would have been true under the proposed map as well, according to an Inquirer/Daily News analysis.

Democrats hope to take control of the U.S. House in elections this fall, and their path to a majority runs through moderate turf in places like the Philadelphia suburbs.

The GOP map proposed Friday would create a question for Democrats and one of their top recruits in the country  Chrissy Houlahan. The Chester County Democrat is now running in the Sixth District against Rep. Ryan Costello, but her home in Devon would be moved to the neighboring Seventh District, centered on Delaware County.

That would potentially give her an easier path to Congress  since the Republican incumbent in the Seventh, Rep. Pat Meehan, is not running again and there is no clear front-runner in the crowded Democratic primary there. But it would also mean that Democrats would lose their best shot to unseat Costello in the kind of educated, suburban district where they see a chance to flip a seat.

Democrats' choice would come down to this: a strong opportunity, on paper, to flip one seat (in the Seventh District) while having little chance in the Sixth, or taking a shot at winning both seats, with somewhat tougher odds.

If Houlahan ran in the Seventh she would be a top-tier candidate in a district with no incumbent and a new map expected to lean left.

Democrats, however, might calculate that in this political environment they are likely to win a redrawn Seventh no matter what, especially with Meehan's departure, and might want to keep their strongest candidate in the tougher race against Costello.

"Chrissy is focused on campaigning and reaching out to voters," said Houlahan spokesman Rahul Kale. "We are not engaging in speculation."

Costello could be well-served by the maps. His district  which Clinton narrowly won  would become more conservative, and his challenger would be moved out. He said that he had "zero input" on the map and that the location of Houlahan's home made it likely she might be pushed into a redrawn Seventh District.

He said that the maps are drawn to address one of the state Supreme Court's main concerns  compactness and splitting counties  and that "the spine" of his district remains similar, running along Routes 100 and 422. Houlahan, he added, "can still run in the district against me. I'll beat her then, too."

Similar concerns have been raised in the western part of the state, during the lead-up to a highly contested special election in the 18th District to replace Rep. Tim Murphy, who resigned amid scandal and whose term was set to expire at the end of this year.

The redrawing would not apply to a March special election to temporarily fill that seat, but it could determine who will take that office for a full term.

Under the map proposed by Scarnati and Turzai, Democratic candidate Conor Lamb would be taken from the 18th District and placed in the 14th, pitting him against Democratic Rep. Mike Doyle. Lamb's Republican challenger, State Rep. Rick Saccone, would remain in the 18th.

Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D., Allegheny), pointing to that move as an example, said Saturday the new boundaries "are another case of overreach" by the GOP.

Congressional candidates do not have to live in the districts they represent, but not doing so is often a political liability.

Attorneys for the Republican leaders argued in their court filing that "the world is not divided neatly into Democrats and Republicans, and Democrats and Republicans are not evenly geographically distributed across the Commonwealth following county and municipal lines."

Because of that, some in Republican circles have said they feel the maps would need to be gerrymandered to favor Democrats if the goal were to create a map that would result in a 50-50 split of the state's 18 U.S. House seats.

Samuel Wang, a Princeton University neuroscientist who runs the Princeton Gerrymandering Project, said it's clear that mapmakers attempted to exploit the state's natural clustering of Democrats into urban areas. He noted that the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh areas would have a concentrated handful of districts, while the map splits areas surrounding Reading and Harrisburg.

"Where you make the splits is where the art of the gerrymander lies," Wang said. "They've chosen to encircle Philadelphia, and that gives a very packed Democratic district, and they've chosen to draw a line down some of these other population centers."

Even without using election results or other data on partisanship, Wang said, other demographic variables such as population density and ethnicity can be used to predict partisan vote.

"And of course," he wrote in an email, "these are seasoned politicians who know their state very well!"

Staffers for Scarnati and Turzai said Saturday that congressional candidates and even incumbents were minor factors in comparison with criteria the Supreme Court outlined: keeping districts compact, minimizing the number of counties and towns split, and the contiguity of the districts.

"It is easy to zoom in on an individual line and nitpick," Neal Lesher, a spokesman for Turzai, said in an email.

One of their primary concerns, Lesher said, was making sure all of the districts met strict guidelines for population. "Just like squeezing a balloon, if you move one line it impacts the whole map and someone else is unhappy," he said.

It is unclear whether the state Supreme Court, which has a Democratic majority, would accept a submission by two Republican leaders without a full vote by the legislature  even if Wolf were to approve it.

The court said it would draw a map itself if lawmakers and the governor can't agree on one by Feb. 15.

Republican leaders, in a court filing late Friday, struck a defiant tone, saying they retained the right to file appeals or to "pass a new plan to replace any plan the court adopts."

Staff writer Garland Potts and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Reporter Chris Potter contributed to this report.I wish I could say I was surprised, but in its editorial last week regarding congressional redistricting, the Inquirer Editorial Board yet again carries water for the Democratic Party. What is surprising, however, is how wrong it is on some key facts.

First, the editorial incorrectly claims that "before the Republican-control legislature drew maps in 2011, the party held seven seats to the Democrats' 12." This is false. 2010 was a banner year for the GOP in Pennsylvania and across the country. Riding a wave of Obama fatigue and discontentment with the lackluster economy and Obamacare, our Pennsylvania Republican candidates defeated four incumbent Democrats and took one open Democratic seat. Thus, when redistricting occurred, we already held a 12-7 advantage. The GOP then picked up one additional seat in 2012 after the 2011 redistricting. Interestingly, it took until 2017 for liberals to go to court to ask for an emergency order.

Also, the Editorial Board stated that "the highest court in the land upheld a Jan. 22 state Supreme Court ruling ordering the legislature to hand in new maps by Friday to reduce the partisan gerrymandering that's robbed Democrats, giving them only five of the state's 18 seats  though voting is split almost evenly between the parties." Robbed? Nonsense.

In fact, Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. merely denied the stay requested by Republicans, but did not rule on or address the fairness or constitutionality of the current legislative lines.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court, which is now a hyper-partisan court of judicial activists, has decided, in an effort to give Democrats an upper hand, to overturn and ignore the over 200 years of precedent, and the findings of its own fact-finder, Commonwealth Court Judge P. Kevin Brobson. Welcome to the new world of "judicial-mandering."

In the present case, the court's decision attempts to bolster the false narrative that Republicans have been winning in congressional seats across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania because they have gamed the system. By going to the courts to overturn the will of the legislature, the left is doing what it has always done, attempting to win judicially that which it cannot win at the ballot box.

The fact of the matter is that when you cluster hundreds of thousands of Democrats into congressional seats in the city of Philadelphia and Allegheny County, the remainder of the seats are, by and large, Republican.

Rule of law and separation of powers are the cornerstones of our republic and our success as a society. In fact, these important concepts separate us from much of the rest of the world. When I review the Supreme Court's order and its blatant usurpation of the legislature's authority, I am concerned not as a Republican, but as a lawyer, a student of history, and an American who understands how vital these concepts are to our freedoms.

Democrat or Republican, we should all be troubled by a court that takes upon itself the power of the legislature. Our constitution, our republic, and our freedoms demand better.

Val DiGiorgio is chairman of the Pennsylvania Republican Party.

Note: A correction on the number of Republican representatives in 2010 appeared Friday.Jon D. Fox, 70, of Abington, a former congressman, state representative, and county commissioner in the Philadelphia suburbs, died from complications associated with cancer at his home on Sunday, Feb. 11, his family said.

Friends and colleagues remembered Mr. Fox as an outgoing and nontraditional politician who left an indelible mark on Montgomery County.

"He was a legendary political figure in Montgomery County for decades. I'm 56 years old, and when I was a child, he was a major force," said Bruce L. Castor Jr., a Montgomery County commissioner from 2008 to 2016 and district attorney before that. "Jon devoted his entire life to public service, and Montgomery County is the better for it."

Mark Weaver, a political strategist for Mr. Fox, compared him to the hero in the classic movie It's a Wonderful Life. "Like the fictional George Bailey, Jon was beloved by his hometown, and his success was built by advancing the success of others," Weaver said.

In an online tribute to his friend, Weaver also wrote that Mr. Fox was different from many other elected officials. "Most of us know how to spot a typical politician: someone looking over your shoulder searching for another hand to shake, another vote to secure," said Weaver. "Jon Fox rejected that ethos. Serving in local, county, state and federal office, he shunned contentious partisan fights, preferring the quiet satisfaction of helping people when government stood in their way."

Mr. Fox, a Republican, represented Pennsylvania's 13th District from 1995 to 1999. He was part of the "Republican Revolution," in which the GOP took control of both the House and Senate in the 1994 election for the first time in four decades.

In 1998, Mr. Fox voted in favor of all four articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton.

Mr. Fox was also a member of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners between 1992 and 1994, and the Pennsylvania State House from 1985 to 1992. Before that, he worked as an assistant district attorney and served in the Air Force.

Mr. Fox's brother, Larry, said his policy achievements included helping to create a health department in Montgomery County, which was formally established in a 1989 voter referendum, and blocking GOP cuts to the legal services corporation.

"It was really a profile-in-courage moment," said Larry Fox of his brother's support for legal aid for the poor. "If he hadn't come forward and gotten a few other Republicans to support it, it would have been ended.  He viewed government as part of the solution."

Republican State Sen. Stewart Greenleaf, who represents Bucks and Montgomery Counties, said Mr. Fox "was always very active in the community, whether it was politics or government or just people in need. Most importantly, he was a very positive influence on society and the people in this area. I think that's more important than anything else. He was very friendly. He would help you if you asked."

Frank Bartle, former chairman of the Montgomery County Republican Committee, agreed. He said Mr. Fox "was known more for his constituent service  than perhaps any elected official in my memory."

"He loved people, and it didn't matter who you were," added Bartle. "If you needed help, Jon was there to help."

Castor said, "I don't know anybody that didn't like Jon. He really tried to make everyone feel like they were special."

Mr. Fox was a graduate of Cheltenham High School, Pennsylvania State University, and the Delaware School of Law. Weaver said Mr. Fox's favorite bumper sticker was an homage to his alma mater: "If God's not a Penn State fan," it read, "why is the sky blue and white?"

Mr. Fox is survived by his wife, Judi; son Will; and two siblings.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, at Congregation Adath Jeshurun, 7763 Old York Rd., Elkins Park. Burial will follow at Roosevelt Memorial Park in Trevose.

The family will sit shivah at the temple after the interment.The cause of the crash is currently unknown. Russian media reported that search crews had found one flight recorder but it is not clear if it is the data or voice recorder.

The An-148 regional jet, operated by Saratov Airlines, was traveling from Domodedovo, to the city of Orsk when it crashed near Argunovo, about 80 kilometers southeast of Moscow.

The seven-year-old plane disappeared from the radar just minutes after departing from the capital city's second largest airport, Domodedovo and was falling up to 6,700 meters per minute in the last seconds of the crash, flight-tracking site FlightRadar24 reported.

"Sixty-five passengers and six crew members were on board, and all of them died," Russia's office of transport investigations said in a statement. Three children were among the victims.

All 71 people aboard a Russian passenger plane were killed when it crashed near Moscow, Russian officials said Sunday.

Russian Minister for Transport Maxim Sokolov told reporters Sunday that it was too early to draw conclusions, but that all potential reasons for the crash were being investigated by the Civil Aviation Committee.

"Specialists have started working, right now they are collecting the remaining of the plane, search for so-called black boxes and only after the results of their investigation and examination we'll be able to raise the subject of the reasons of this plane crush," he said.

Sokolov also announced that a group of psychologists and doctors would travel to the Orenburg region Monday to help the families of the victims.

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered "his profound condolences to those who lost their relatives in the crash," his spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

U.S. President Donald Trump joined world leaders in offering condolences to Putin and the Russian people. "The United States is deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of those on board Saratov Airlines Flight 703. We send our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Russia," a statement released by the White House said.

The crash site was covered in heavy snow, delaying access to the area as rescue workers had to park their cars and travel to the crash site on foot.

The airport has been the focus of security concerns in the past. It came under sharp criticism in 2004, after Chechen suicide bombers destroyed two airliners that took off from the airport on the same evening, killing a total of 90 people. A 2011 bombing in the arrivals area killed 37 people.

Shabby equipment and poor supervision plagued Russian civil aviation for years after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, but its safety record has improved in recent years.About two million Pennsylvania workers are playing without a helmet.

That is, they don't have access to retirement savings plans at work, which puts them at risk of retiring into poverty. Supporting them down the road could cost the state billions.

State Treasurer Joe Torsella and a handful of Democratic and Republican legislators are trying to help them by pushing a retirement savings plan for employees of private-sector firms who don't have such plans. Private employers would enable workers to save through payroll deductions and the state treasurer would collect the funds  which would be managed by investment experts vetted by the state. There would be nominal administrative costs to the employer, but the employer would get the advantage of attracting quality workers seeking a decent benefits package. Employees would be free to choose how much they saved or whether they would save at all. And the cost to the state would be offset by the savings in aid to elderly poor in the future.

A January study by Econsult Solutions, the Philadelphia-based economics consulting and research firm, showed that the state spent $4.2 billion to help elderly poor residents in 2015. That included costs for Medicaid, which covers expenses Medicare doesn't, like long-term care, housing support, and tax rebates, as well as free or reduced-cost transit. The firm estimates the state would spend a cumulative $14.3 billion between 2015 and 2030 helping seniors with inadequate savings. That's money that could support schools, parks, and infrastructure. And if senior citizens had more secure retirements, they'd be putting more money into the economy. The study said seniors would have spent $2 billion more in 2015 if they had saved for retirement.

About 40 states, including New Jersey, California and Oregon, are in some stage of creating state retirement plans. That gives Pennsylvania models to examine so it can choose which one works best for Pennsylvanians.

States are moving forward with savings plans even though Congress last year killed a rule that would have exempted states from the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, which regulates employer-based retirement plans. But states have said that's not too much of an obstacle in establishing their own plans.

In Pennsylvania, Reps. Michael Hanna (D., Clinton) and Michael Driscoll (D., Phila.) have introduced a bill that would create a savings plan. Additionally, there is bipartisan interest from Sens. Pat Browne, (R., Lehigh) and Art Haywood (D., Montgomery), as well as Reps. Joseph Markosek (D., Allegheny) and Warren Kampf (R., Chester). This is pretty good momentum. Last week, proponents unveiled a web page to help explain the program and build public support. There will be a public hearing on it in Harrisburg next week.

Offering a secure retirement to millions of workers not only helps those worried about their own retirements, but children who would be taking care of aging parents.

The best time to move this legislation would be through the budget process in the coming months. Residents should reach out to legislators and tell them to support a savings program that gives some security to retirees.President Donald Trump, joined by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, left, Vice President Mike Pence, second from left, and White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, right, speaks to the media as he arrives at the Pentagon last month. Read more

When President Trump opened his mouth on Friday to defend ousted White House aide Rob Porter in the face of accusations he'd abused his two ex-wives and a girlfriend, leaving his first wife with a black eye, I couldn't stop hearing a Saturday Night Live skit from more than 40 years ago  a time when the women's liberation movement was still breaking news and comedy was more outrageous and less politically correct.

The 1977 skit gently mocked the women's movement and less gently mocked the patriarchy with a TV talk show called "You've Come a Long Way, Buddy" that promoted the work of male painters like Vincent Van Gogh (who "influenced many artists. And he was a man.") while music written by men, like Beethoven, played in the background, The skit reached its absurdist crescendo when a cigar-smoking John Belushi appears as a character who's launched a 24-hour rape hotline  for men who've committed a rape. Belushi's "Sam Montgomery" says the hotline gives rapists "an opportunity to talk to someone who understands what he's gone through"  and it's completely anonymous.

"Very often, to be known as a rapist is a social stigma, and it can ruin a man's life."

That's a quote from SNL and what was supposed to be biting social satire, in a time when the future absurdity of Donald Trump, 45th president of the United States, was beyond the ability of comedy writers to imagine. But when Trump addressed reporters on Friday who asked about Porter  who'd funneled America's most important secrets onto the president's desks for months while top aides knew his sordid past had blocked him from a security clearance  his words could have been ripped directly from that farcical skit four decades ago.

"We wish him well, he worked very hard. We found out about it recently and I was surprised by it, but we certainly wish him well and it's a tough time for him," said Trump, showing his not-satirical concern for how the social stigma of wife-beating can ruin a man's life. "He did a very good job when he was in the White House. And we hope he has a wonderful career and he will have a great career ahead of him. But it was very sad when we heard about it and certainly he's also very sad now."

It's also sad to learn that apparently we haven't come a long way, buddy. Less than a day later, as some critics dared to note that Trump's lack of empathy for women that Porter had allegedly (backed up by almost irrefutable evidence) abused had all but erased them from the picture, the president did what he did best and doubled down with a tweet that went after the essence of the #MeToo movement that seeks to redress centuries of patriarchical abuse in the workplace and in the broader society.

"Peoples lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation," tweeted Trump on Saturday, missing an apostrophe and adding with weird Trumpian capital letters: "Is there no such thing any longer as Due Process?"

Like most of Trump's tweets, it would be easy to take the president's 280 characters and spin off 2,800 words of outrage, about all the places and times that Trump or his administration hasn't believed in "Due Process," from the big stuff like keeping Gitmo  a global monument to lack of "Due Process"  open and the current cruel and flimsily supported immigrant roundup to the small stuff like accusing Ted Cruz's dad of killing JFK (and especially his outrageous statements about the innocent "Central Park Five"). I'm also breaking a loosely enforced personal rule here, and writing about the same topic (the Porter scandal) two columns in a row, when there are other things going on in Trump World (like his secret war powers memo, and his ongoing obstruction of justice in the Trump-Russia probe) and in the wider world of ideas (like forgiving America's massive student debt) that gasp for oxygen in this deprived environment.

But Trump's behavior in the case of Porter (and now a second ex-aide facing similar accusations) has shone a gigantic floodlight on something fundamental to where we are as a nation right now, hiding in plain sight during the president's mind-boggling rise to power, that is no longer possible to ignore: The United States is led by a man who's not capable of seeing the women who comprise 51 percent of his constituents as fully formed human beings. Trump, with his outrageous comments, inaugurated himself as president of the United States of Men  and the dire consequences of this depressing state of presidential mind resonate across his bifurcated land.

It's not that women don't exist in Trump World  as the Access Hollywood tape reminds us, they are never far from his cerebral cortex  but they exist as one-dimensional role players, pawns in a giant chess game where they can glorify or impede the grand movements of the male knights and the king. Most of these pawns in Trump chess are playing the role of sex objects, as the future president made clear in his many appearances on Howard Stern's radio show, where he rated women and assessed their breasts, boasted about walking in on the Miss Universe dressing room and even seemed to be incapable of not sexualizing his own daughter, Ivanka.

At least 19 women have come forward with stories of groping, unwelcome kissing, or other gross forms of sexual misconduct involving the future president of the United States  and clearly that pressure to ignore that gigantic problem has fed the warped climate inside the White House where no one wanted to admit the wife-beating charges against Porter were a big deal. But "potential sex conquest" is just one limited supporting role in the Trump movie  female critics are routinely dismissed as fat (Alicia Machado) or ugly (Ted Cruz's wife). Perhaps besotted by his years of watching blond women deliver a conservative message on Fox News (when run by the late Roger Ailes, a serial sexual predator), Trump does like putting women in communications roles  Sarah Sanders, Hope Hicks, Kellyanne Conway. But when it comes to the true power roles like chief of staff, your chances are better seeing a UFO than seeing a female in those jobs.

This plays out in many ways. Some 80 percent of Trump's political nominations have been men  the worst rate in at least a quarter century. Only three of the 53 U.S. Attorneys nominated so far by Trump have been women  in a nation where females now comprise more than half of law school graduating classes. When Trump took office, half of the pending judicial nominations by Barack Obama were women; but only 19 percent of Trump's new nominations have been female.

Maybe you could make the argument that Trump is just a 71-year-old Neanderthal whose outdated ideas on gender can be dismissed because it doesn't really impact government policy. Except it does impact government policy. Trump's Education Department  ironically, led by one of his few female appointees, Betsy DeVos  is working hard to reverse the dynamic on reporting campus sexual assault, which has affected at least 19 percent of female undergraduates, in favor of the Trumpian notion of "Due Process." That means some women will again be afraid to come forward. Among the jobs that haven't even been filled by Trump are White House adviser on violence against women, State Department ambassador-at-large for global women's issues, and head of the Justice Department's Office on Violence Against Women, which Team Trump has threatened to eliminate since Day One of the administration. The cruel reality is that one man's blind spot toward violence against women is going to cause more women in his United States to get hurt.

And that doesn't include the psychic damage of a government that looks right through its women, that instead  as Politico's Edward-Isaac Dovere put it  believes the men. As Slate's Dahlia Lithwick noted in arguably the best piece so far about the disgraceful way Trump's White House had handled these assault allegations, the refusal to take them seriously even when raised by well-educated women traveling in elite circles like Colbie Holderness and Jennifer Willoughby  Porter's ex-wives  powerfully demonstrates why women generally are reluctant to report abuse.

Taken together, all the grown-ups in the room protected, privileged, and covered for Rob Porter despite everything they knew about his pattern of abuse, because his career was important to them. Even well-educated, high-status, articulate white women who were lawfully married to Porter didn't matter enough to be taken seriously. Please stop asking why women don't come forward. These women did. They believed that once the police, the FBI, the White House, and John Kelly knew what they knew, Porter would stop ascending in their ranks. They were wrong.  Rob Porters father wrote eloquently about the presidency and a tone from the top. The tone from the top of the Trump administration has unerringly been that women are to be cherished and protected right up until the moment they stop being docile and decorative, and then they are to be dismissed and humiliated.

That's an unconscionable message, not just to "our wives and daughters" (which is what male writers always say) but to the more than 160 million human beings who live in America and who are not men. There are many ways that Trump has blown up the contract to be a president of all of the American people, but this mindset that leads the president to offer his well-wishes to a credibly accused wife-beater is particular abhorrent. November's midterm election will be a chance to prove that a would-be autocrat can't succeed by suppressing a majority group, but I'm also sick and tired of well-meaning men waiting for women to save America at the ballot box. It's time for men to acknowledge we haven't come a long way, buddy. Let's all work together to topple Trump's United States of Men.Elizabeth Jane Allen, 85, of Philadelphia, a specialist in public relations and development who helped lay the groundwork for the national Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in 1955, died Tuesday, Jan. 30, of complications from influenza at the Keystone Hospice in Wyndmoor.

She had been battling Parkinson's disease for two decades, said her daughter, Meredith Wiggins.

Mrs. Allen, known as "Betty," had a distinguished career as a public relations, human resources, and development specialist. An artist, she started out by doing layout and graphic design for local publications such as Bucks County Panorama, a magazine that is no longer published. "When I was growing up, there were art boards with tissue paper all over our house," said her daughter. "That's how she got into public relations."

Mrs. Allen went on to serve as public relations and development director at various times for Bryn Mawr, Nazareth, Graduate, and Taylor Hospitals. She won awards for her publications, her daughter said.

In the 1970s, Mrs. Allen served as the director of public affairs and chief development officer for the Academy of Natural Sciences. During her time there, she completed a $10 million capital campaign, according to senior fellow Robert Peck.

"Betty Allen was in charge of the development office at the Academy of Natural Sciences [now part of Drexel University] from 1977 to 1979," Peck said. "During that time, under the presidency of Thomas Peter Bennett, the academy raised more than $10 million to build a new, seven-story research wing and a 400-seat auditorium. Both facilities are still in use today."

When her children were grown, Mrs. Allen took a job as associate executive director of the Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association, with responsibility for legislative activity and communications. At that time, the family was living in Hershey, Pa.

Her final job was with Garofolo, Curtis & Company, a personnel company, as a human resources executive, specializing in physician recruitment and human resources. She retired in the 1990s with the title of senior vice president and principal in the company.

A civic volunteer, Mrs. Allen, along with her husband, Robert C. Allen, a Girard Bank executive, were very aware of the needs of those around them. In 1955, while living in Secane, the couple noticed that a little girl next door had an incessant cough. "The windows were open in the summer and they could hear her," Wiggins said.

They learned that she had cystic fibrosis, a disease characterized by a buildup of thick, sticky secretions in the lungs and digestive tract that interferes with breathing and digestion. "What can we do to help?" the Allens asked the parents.

The conversation led to a meeting at Girard of parents with children who were fighting cystic fibrosis. "Mother was the PR piece, and Dad was the banker. They were trying to raise money for children with this terrible disease," Wiggins said.

The Allens also were friendly with Milton Graub, a pediatrician from Bala Cynwyd, and his wife, Evelyn. They, too, were the parents of children with cystic fibrosis. In 1955, the Allens, Graubs, and other parents of afflicted children launched the national Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

At that time, children with the disease were not expected to live long enough to attend elementary school. "Thanks in large part to the foundation's aggressive investments in innovative research and comprehensive care, the median survival age for people with this disease is now nearly 37 years," the foundation said in 2010, the year Graub died.

A Philadelphia native, Mrs. Allen was the daughter of Ralph H. Purvis and Elizabeth Noyes Boyd Cull. She grew up in East Falls and was a 1949 graduate of Philadelphia High School for Girls.

After she and her husband retired to Marco Island, Fla., in the 1990s, Mrs. Allen became chairman of the board of trustees of the Marco Island Medical Center. A lifelong Episcopalian, she helped St. Mark's Episcopal Church of Marco Island raise $2 million to build a new sanctuary.

Mrs. Allen enjoyed travel, bird watching, and supporting environmental causes. "Her intelligence, commitment, generosity, and whimsical sense of humor will be greatly missed," her daughter said.

In addition to her husband and daughter, Mrs. Allen is survived by son Robert C. Jr.; daughter Deborah E.; four grandchildren; and two brothers.

A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, 8000 St. Martins Lane, Philadelphia 19118. Burial is private.

Memorial donations may be made to the Audubon Society via http://pa.audubon.org/ or to the All Saints Fund of the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields at the address above.Jeff Bell, 74, a three-time Republican U.S. Senate candidate in New Jersey who was an influential voice in the conservative movement, died Saturday night, Feb. 10. The cause of death wasn't immediately known.

Mr. Bell was a campaign aide to former President Richard M. Nixon and a speechwriter for Ronald Reagan during his unsuccessful 1976 primary challenge to President Gerald R. Ford.

"He was a kind and generous man with an original mind, a fighting spirit, and a deep faith," William Kristol, the conservative commentator and a friend, wrote Sunday on Twitter.

Mr. Bell, an Army veteran who served in Vietnam, made his own foray into electoral politics, shocking the New Jersey political establishment in 1978 by winning the Republican primary against incumbent U.S. Sen. Clifford Case. Mr. Bell then lost in the general election to Democrat Bill Bradley.

Mr. Bell again ran for Senate in 1982, but this time lost in the primary. He moved to Virginia and influenced policy debates in Washington. In 2009, he co-founded the American Principles Project, a nonprofit that "works to advance human dignity through public policy."

"Jeff Bell left a mark on everyone who knew him. His influence in the conservative movement  as an advocate for supply-side economics and social conservatism, as a policy staffer for Ronald Reagan, and as a three-time candidate for Senate in New Jersey  is well-known," Frank Cannon, president of the American Principles Project, based in Washington, said in a statement Monday.

Returning to New Jersey in 2014, Mr. Bell won the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate for the second time. Running against Democratic Sen. Cory A. Booker, Mr. Bell campaigned on a pledge to rein in the Federal Reserve and return U.S. monetary policy to the gold standard. Booker won the election.

Mr. Bell lived in Annandale, Va., and had a residence in Leonia, N.J., according to a spokesman for the American Principles Project.

He is survived by his wife, Rosalie, and children Jimmy, Nicky, Julia, and Damien.A key aide to U.S. President Donald Trump is defending the White House's handling of spousal abuse allegations leveled against his former staff secretary before he resigned last week.

Presidential adviser Kellyanne Conway told CNN on Sunday that "it's very clear" that Rob Porter, who helped oversee paperwork and documents being sent to the U.S. leader and helped draft his recent State of the Union address, "did the right thing" by resigning after his two ex-wives offered evidence that he physically abused them during their marriages.

But Conway pushed back on numerous news media reports that chief of staff John Kelly and White House lawyer Donald McGahn knew for months from FBI security background checks about the allegations the women made against Porter but did not act to remove him. Porter's bid to get a permanent security badge was blocked by the allegations, but he continued to hold his job under an interim clearance.

Conway said she was not privy to the FBI security investigations, but said she had "no reason to not believe the women." Conway said she was "horrified, very shocked" to learn of the accusations against the Oxford-and Harvard-educated Porter because of her highly professional relations with him inside the White House.

A second White House aide, speechwriter David Sorenson, also abruptly quit Friday after his former wife claimed he was violent and emotionally abusive during their marriage, allegations he adamantly denied, claiming his former wife abused him.

Colbie Holderness, the first of Porter's two ex-wives, produced a widely published photo of her with a black eye she said she sustained when Porter punched her in the face during a vacation in Italy in 2005. Porter's second wife, Jennifer Willoughby, obtained a restraining order against him in 2010.Cop killer Luis Bracamontes laughed and smiled Friday as he was convicted of killing two Northern California deputies. (Photo: Screen shot from Sacramento Bee video)

A jury convicted Luis Bracamontes Friday in the 2014 slayings of two Sacramento-area deputies, giving the self-confessed cop killer what he has insisted he wanted all along: a chance at being executed.

After about five hours of deliberation, the jury declared Bracamontes guilty of murdering Sacramento sheriff's Deputy Danny Oliver, then Placer sheriff's Detective Michael Davis Jr. The verdict came on what would have been Olivers 51st birthday.

Yay, Bracamontes said quietly as the Oliver verdict was read, smiling toward the deputys widow sitting in the front row. In all, he was convicted on all of the 15 counts he faced, as well as five special circumstances.

After all the verdicts were read, Bracamontes looked at the families of the deputies and said, Congratulations, the Sacramento Bee reports.

Im gonna kill more cops soon, he added as he was taken out of the Sacramento Superior Court chamber.

Bracamontes' wife, whose trial on murder and other charges was held simultaneously  but before a separate jury  is still awaiting a verdict. She could be sentenced to 25 years to life if convicted of helping him carry out his crimes.

Prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty for Luis Bracamontes.

But even if he receives a capital sentence, the chance of an actual execution in California is very slim.

Brocamontes is an illegal alien who has been deported twice.The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) issued this statement today:

The law enforcement profession experienced one of its deadliest periods in recent memory this past week as seven officers nationwide were killed in the line of duty. Six of these fallen heroes were shot to death, and one died in an auto crash.

Already this year 14 law enforcement professionals have been killed in the line of duty. Eleven of them died as a result of gunfire, more than double the number at the same time last year (5).

On February 5, El Paso County (CO) Deputy Sheriff Micah Flick was shot and killed while conducting a motor vehicle theft investigation. He and several officers struggled with a suspect who opened fire, mortally wounding Deputy Flick, who had spent 11 years with the department. He was the sixth officer to be shot and killed in 2018 and the third in Colorado since December 31.

The following day, Los Angeles County (CA) Deputy Sheriff Steven Belanger succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head he sustained on December 1994 while conducting a traffic stop in Rowland Heights, California.

Also on February 6, Asher (OK) Police Department Reserve Officer Jarate Dewayne Condit was killed in a vehicle crash. Officer Condit was just 23 years old and is the first officer fatality from Oklahoma in 2018.

Richardson (TX) Police Officer David Sherrard became the first Texas officer killed in the line of duty in 2018. Officer Sherrard was shot and killed on February 7 while responding to a disturbance call at an apartment complex in the Dallas suburb. Upon arrival, officers discovered a man suffering from a gunshot wound outside and were able to locate the gunman inside the complex. As they entered the apartment, the suspect opened fire on the officers, striking Officer Sherrard in the neck. The assailant then barricaded himself in the apartment for several hours before surrendering. Officer Sherrard died of his wounds in a nearby hospital.

Two days later, on February 9, Locust Grove (GA) Police Officer Chase Maddox was shot and killed while helping two Henry County (GA) Sheriffs deputies apprehend a suspect who had failed to show at his court hearing for a traffic violation. The suspect shot the three officers, killing Officer Maddox, before being shot and killed himself.

Then on February 10, two Westerville (OH) Division of Police officers were shot and killed when responding to a 911 call hang-up. The suspect shot Officer Eric Joering and Officer Anthony Morelli as they arrived at the scene to investigate. Officer Joering died at the scene and Officer Morelli died later at a hospital. Westerville Police Chief Joe Morbitzer called it a potential domestic situation.

The tragic deaths of these seven officers over the span of a week is a stark reminder of the dangers our law enforcement professionals face each and every day while protecting and serving our communities. Too often, their service and sacrifice are taken for granted. We must always remember and honor our fallen law enforcement heroes, support their surviving family members, and do everything possible to make it safer for the officers who continue to serve.An officer with the Oglala Sioux Tribal police has been confirmed dead after an apparent domestic dispute early Saturday morning.

The F.B.I., Bureau of Indian Affairs and Oglala Sioux Tribal police are investigating the case.

KOTA TV sources say the officer was off-duty at the time.Officers from Dublin, Ohio, patrol the streets of Westerville, giving assistance to the Westerville Police. (Photo: NBC4 Screen shot)

As the Westerville (OH) Police mourn the loss of their colleagues, officers from other local departments have volunteered to help patrol in Westerville.

The Westerville Police Chief says officers from Dublin, Hilliard, Upper Arlington, Genoa Township, Columbus, the Franklin County Sheriffs Office, and more are pitching in to help patrol and answer calls as Westerville police grieve.

Two Westerville officers were shot and killed Saturday responding to a 911 hangup call. Officer Eric Joering and Officer Anthony Morelli had both been with the department for a number of years, NBC4 reports.Bryan Ogle was arraigned Sunday in Kanawha County. Among the charges are attempted murder and assault of a law enforcement officer. (Photo: Kanawha County Jail)

The Charleston (WV) Police Department has arrested a man who reportedly shot a police officer after escaping custody.

Chief Steve Cooper said Bryan Lee Ogle II, was wanted out of Tennessee when he got picked up by the Montgomery (WV) Police Department. Officers there arrested Bogle after a pursuit last week. Ogle was being treated at CAMC after sustaining injuries during his arrest in Montgomery.

Around 2:30 Saturday afternoon Ogle escaped Montgomery Police custody. Charleston Police were called in to help catch Ogle. A Charleston Officer ended up in a scuffle with Ogle in the alleyway behind the hospital. The suspect shot the Charleston Police Officer with the a Montgomery Police Officer's firearm, police say.

Chief Cooper is not yet releasing the name of the officer shot, but says he is OK, WOWK TV reports.

Ogle was arraigned Sunday in Kanawha County. Among the charges are attempted murder and assault of a law enforcement officer.3.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

Donald Trump despises the #MeToo movement because he says it hurts CEOs by making it easy for female employees to sue.

Axios reported, Donald Trump despises the #MeToo movement because he says it hurts CEOs by making it easy for female employees to sue.

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The article also states the Trumps believes Rob Porters ex-wives and was outraged that a guy who he called, straight out of central casting could have committed acts of violence against women.

Trump despising the movement is akin to a declaration of war

By telling people privately that he despises the movement, Trump is telling women that they need tolerate abuse and shut up. It is a declaration of war against those who speak out and tell their stories of abuse. Donald Trump is setting a cultural tone of defending abusers. He thought Rob Porter was guilty, but he still defended him publicly because he is trying to silence women.

Trump only thinks about what is best for big business

Trumps statements provide insight into how he views the country. This president doesnt care about people. He isnt concerned with the human beings that he is supposed to be working for. Trump is only concerned with business, specifically, big business. Trump doesnt care that CEOs can be sued due to the #MeToo movement because men still dominate the ranks of the worlds biggest corporations.

Donald Trump isnt going to be able to stop #MeToo because it is something bigger than any one person.

Instead of silencing the #MeToo movement, #MeToo may end up throwing Donald Trump out of the White House.The Israeli pilots were able to eject from their aircraft, which crashed in Israel, according to the Israeli military. Israel said one of its pilots was "severely injured" in the "emergency evacuation," while another pilot was slightly injured.

The Israeli pilots were able to eject from their aircraft, which crashed in Israel, according to the Israeli military. Israel said one of its pilots was "severely injured" in the "emergency evacuation," while another pilot was slightly injured.

Saturday's raids came after Syrian air defenses shot down an Israeli F-16 fighter with anti-aircraft fire, the first time Israel has lost a warplane in battle since 1982.

"We made clear to everyone that our rules of engagement will not change in any way," Netanyahu said at the start of a cabinet meeting. "We will continue to harm anyone who tries to harm us. This was our policy and this will remain our policy."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that his country had dealt "severe blows" to Iranian and Syrian forces inside Syria and would continue to combat any further aggression.

Israel said it hit a dozen Iranian and Syrian targets in Syria, including command centers and missile defenses. Israel conducted the airstrikes after anti-aircraft fire downed an Israeli warplane returning from a raid on Iranian-backed positions in Syria. Earlier, Israel said it had shot down an Iranian drone launched from Syria after it entered Israeli territory late Friday.

Several Israeli officials said they refused to accept an Iranian military presence in Syria, which Tehran denies exists. The United States defended the Israeli response to the attack on its fighter jet.

"Israel is a staunch ally of the United States, and we support its right to defend itself from the Iranian-backed Syrian and militia forces in southern Syria," the White House said in a statement. It urged "Iran and its allies to cease provocative actions and work toward regional peace."

Syria says with the Israeli attack across its border, the rules of engagement have changed. Syrian legislator Ahmad Miri said the downing of the warplane creates a new situation in which Israel can no longer act with impunity in Syrian airspace.

The Israeli airstrikes were the most significant since the Syrian civil war began seven years ago and have raised fears of an escalation and possibly war. Russia and the United Nations called on all sides to ease tensions.

A spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that "all concerned in Syria and the region have a responsibility and must abide by international law and relevant Security Council resolutions." The secretary-general has also called for "all to work for an immediate and unconditional de-escalation of violence, and exercise restraint."

Netanyahu said he spoke Saturday with Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I reiterated to him our obligation and right to defend ourselves against attacks from Syrian territory," Netanyahu said. "We agreed coordination between our armies would continue." Netanyahu also discussed the strike with U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

Syria's state media said earlier Saturday Syria is responding to "new Israeli aggression," following the Israeli raid.

Feras Shehabi, a Syrian lawmaker, said Syria's response to Israel's assault signals a "major shift in the balance of power in favor of Syria and the axis of resistance." He said "Israelis must realize they no longer have superiority in the skies or on the ground."

Israel Defense Forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Ronen Manelis said "Iran is dragging the region into a situation in which it doesn't know how it will end. We are prepared for a variety of incidents. Whoever is responsible for this incident is the one who will pay the price."

The Syrian attack resulted in air raid sirens being activated in the Golan Heights and Beit She'an, but no casualties were reported.Abraham Lincoln stands not only as Americas greatest president but also as its greatest lawyer. At the time of his election to the presidency in 1860 he was the most prominent practicing lawyer in the state of Illinois. As a politician and as president, Lincoln was a profound student of the Constitution and constitutional history.

Perhaps most important, Lincoln was Americas indispensable teacher of the moral ground of political freedom at the exact moment when the country was on the threshold of abandoning what he called its ancient faith that all men are created equal. How can it be that lawyers know so little of the giant of their profession?

Former federal judge Herbert Stern is himself a prominent practicing attorney who has found much to learn from Lincolns legal career. As a teacher of practice skills to trial lawyers he frequently asks a rhetorical question: would you rather have an edge in the facts of a case, an edge in the law of a case, or Abraham Lincoln for your lawyer? In his view, the practitioner who can learn to emulate Lincoln as a lawyer holds the key to greatness in the profession.

But Lincoln is such an imposing figure that his stature obscures the man. As we view him historically, from the end of his life to the beginning of his career, he remains a figure whose greatness makes him difficult to know or understand. If we can follow him as a young man, as he finds his vocation and his calling, he may become a more familiar and accessible if no less admirable man.

The young Lincoln

In 1831 Lincoln left home at age 22 to strike out on his own in the struggling frontier town of New Salem, Illinois. He had no trade and few prospects. The single most striking fact about him as a young man is his genius for friendship. As one of his New Salem contemporaries recalled (as recorded in the interview notes of William Herndon quoted by David Herbert Donald), Lincoln had nothing[,] only plenty of friends. He was obviously one of the most likable men who ever lived, a man who radiated decency. Moreover, the better his acquaintances got to know him, the more they liked him. Those who got to know him best, such as the acquaintances with whom he shared boarding rooms as an impoverished young man, became lifelong friends. The student of Lincoln who can see him through the eyes of these friends will have a similar experience.

His genius for friendship manifested itself in memorable ways. As a young man, for example, Lincolns physical stature and strength made him a formidable wrestler. He made friends by wrestling, although this was not the kind of wrestling that is a branch of show business or in which the outcome of the match is agreed upon by the contestants in advance.

Upon his arrival in New Salem, he was challenged to a match by Jack Armstrong, the leader of a gang called Clarys Grove Boys. The match is famous in the annals of Lincoln lore and was examined in extraordinary detail by Lincoln scholar Douglas Wilson in the first chapter of his book Honors Voice. Although several conflicting eyewitness accounts of the match exist, the accounts generally agree that Armstrong narrowly escaped losing to Lincoln by some sort of sharp practice. The match ended in rancor, but Lincoln and Armstrong immediately became fast friends. Their friendship had momentous consequences in Lincolns legal career.

Lincoln joined the Illinois militia to fight in the Black Hawk War in 1832. He later claimed only to have been bloodied in the course of his service by a few mosquitoes. In his militia company, Lincoln apparently made friends by wrestling and was elected the captain of the company (the first election he ever won). Armstrong served as a sergeant in Lincolns company.

Candidate for office

Discharged later in the year, Lincoln returned to New Salem and ran for the state legislature at age 23. He lost the race while receiving an enormous vote of confidence from his fellow townsmen who knew him best. In the town of New Salem, Lincoln won an astounding 92 percent of the vote, receiving 277 of the 300 votes cast.

It was the only direct election that Lincoln ever lost. Lincoln proceeded to win every succeeding election (eight in all, including two for president) in which he stood for office before the public. The only races he lost (closely) were those for the Senate in 1854 and 1858, in which he sought election by the state legislature.

Following his 1832 loss, Lincoln ran again for the state legislature in 1834 and won. He was reelected in 1836, 1838, 1840 and 1854. In the legislature Lincoln was a ferociously partisan Whig who quickly became a skilled debater and party leader. During his service in the legislature, Lincoln studied law and became a lawyer. Upon leaving the legislature in 1842, Lincoln devoted himself to legal practice full time and rapidly became recognized as an accomplished practitioner.

While practicing law he remained active in politics. In 1846 he was elected to Congress. Although Lincoln wanted to run for reelection to Congress, he did not do so. He felt bound to honor an informal agreement among the Whigs in his district to serve only one term and he therefore stood down.

In 1854, Lincoln reentered politics to oppose the Kansas-Nebraska Act, the handiwork of Illinois Senator Stephen Douglas. Lincoln denounced the Kansas-Nebraska Act in his great Peoria Speech of 1854, making a comprehensive case against the repeal of the Missouri Compromise and the expansion of slavery into the territories. He resigned the seat in the state legislature that he won that fall to seek Illinois open Senate seat, but narrowly lost to anti-Nebraska Act Democrat Lyman Trumbull when Lincoln threw his support to Trumbull in the last round of balloting.

Friend in need

Lincolns law practice grew apace with the national political crisis of the 1850s. In 1857, immediately prior to Lincolns ascent to the national political stage by virtue of his epic battle with Senator Stephen Douglas in the senate race the following year, Lincolns friendship with his former wrestling foe Jack Armstrong led to the most famous trial of Lincolns legal career.

On the evening of August 29, 1857, in a moonlit grove in central Illinois, two assailants beat James Metzger in what seems to have been a drunken brawl. He died two days later and his attackers  James Norris and William Duff Armstrong  were charged with murder. According to the charge, Norris and Armstrong had assaulted Metzger in concert and inflicted fatal blows to the head, Norris from behind with a wooden piece of a wagon frame and Armstrong from the front or the side with a slung-shot (a lead ball encased in leather with a cord attached for swinging).

Following the indictment Armstrongs lawyer moved for a change of venue while Norriss unaccountably did not. Armstrongs motion was granted and venue was transferred from Mason to Cass County.

Tried first, on November 7, 1857, Norris was promptly convicted of manslaughter after a one-day trial. Four eyewitnesses at the trial placed the time of the attack at 11:00 p.m. and claimed to have observed the attack under the light of a bright moon high in the sky. Medical testimony established that the blow to the back of the head by Norris had been fatal.

Armstrongs father  Lincolns old friend Jack Armstrong  died shortly thereafter. It was said to have been his dying wish that his wife Hannah do whatever was necessary, including selling the family farm, to secure their son a defense.

Hannah Armstrong wrote Lincoln, now practicing in Springfield and the most prominent lawyer in the state. She sought his representation in the defense of Duff Armstrong. Lincoln immediately undertook the defense as a token of his old friendship and declined all offers of compensation.

Friend in deed

When the case was called for trial in Cass Countys courthouse in Beardstown, Illinois, Lincoln made his first courtroom appearance for Armstrong. The prosecution moved for a continuance. This motion too was granted and the case was not called for trial again until May 1858.

Historian John Evangelist Walsh has now gathered virtually every scrap of evidence regarding the trial in his book Moonlight: Abraham Lincoln and the Almanac Trial. The book wildly charges that Lincoln committed misconduct in connection with the trial. Perhaps because of the familiarity of the trial story Walsh felt compelled to wring a new charge of scandal out of evidence that simply does not support it.

More notably, however, reliable evidence also provided by Walsh on the contrary demonstrates Lincolns utter probity as a trial lawyer. Immediately before the trial, for example, Armstrongs brothers arranged for the disappearance of Charles Allen, the prosecutions critical eyewitness; Lincoln promptly ascertained the circumstances of Allens disappearance together with his whereabouts and assured his attendance at the trial.

Walsh also establishes Lincolns sheer doggedness in the preparation of Armstrongs defense. Following his retention, and with the time afforded by the continuance until May, Lincoln carefully investigated the case the prosecution had introduced against Norris and calculated how best to use it to his advantage.

He procured expert medical testimony establishing that Norriss blows to the back of Metzgers head by themselves could account for all Metzgers traumatic injuries. He interviewed witnesses including the owner of the weapon with which Armstrong had allegedly attacked Metzger. In what seems to constitute a fine piece of detective work, he ascertained that the owner would testify that the weapon remained in his possession at the time of the murder. He found eyewitnesses who would testify that, although Armstrong had attacked Metzger, he had done so harmlessly with his bare hands. And Lincoln did not rest in his efforts until he discovered how he could raise reasonable doubts about the credibility of the critical eyewitness testimony of Charles Allen.

Moonset

At trial the prosecution introduced eyewitness and medical testimony supporting the charge against Armstrong, climaxing in Allens testimony. As the closest observer of the assault, Allen was the star witness in the prosecutions case. Allen testified that in the moonlight overhead he had seen Armstrong attack Metzger frontally with the slung-shot and in the conclusion of the direct examination dramatically demonstrated the manner of Armstrongs attack.

In Armstrongs defense Lincoln introduced the eyewitness and medical testimony of the witnesses he had found to rebut the prosecutions case. He called the owner of the alleged murder weapon to testify that the weapon had been in his possession at the time of the murder. In unorthodox fashion Lincoln concluded his defense of Armstrong by recalling Charles Allen, the prosecutions star witness, for cross examination.

Lincolns cross examination of Allen is the stuff of legend. Lincoln elicited Allens distance from the assault  50 to 60 feet or upwards  and focused on Allens ability to see what he had described, questioning him repeatedly about the location of the moon at the time of the attack. Allen steadfastly responded that the moon was bright and just past its highest point overhead at the time of the attack.

With Allen emphatically committed to the location of the moon at the time of the attack, Lincoln pulled a copy of the Jaynes Medical Almanac for 1857 from his briefcase showing the time of moonset in central Illinois on August 29, 1857. Lincoln showed that according to the almanac moonset that evening had occurred at 12:03 a.m., just one hour after the time Allen testified he had seen the assault under a high moon.

Courtroom observers exploded in laughter. As Allen was reduced to a laughingstock, Lincoln passed the almanac to the jurors. (Walsh includes a copy of the relevant almanac page in the books illustrations.) The jury concluded its deliberations in an hour with a verdict of acquittal. (Lincoln sat for the photograph at the top immediately after the jury returned its verdict. It is the only photograph of Lincoln wearing a white coat.)

Into history

The following month Lincoln returned to politics. On June 16 he stood before the state Republican convention in Springfield and accepted its nomination to run for the Senate against Stephen Douglas. In his famous speech accepting the nomination, Lincoln electrified the convention, asserting that the institution of slavery had made the United States a house divided against itself. Slavery would either be extirpated or become lawful nationwide, Lincoln predicted, provocatively quoting scriptural authority to the effect that a house divided against itself cannot stand.

Having fulfilled the offices of friendship as an attorney in the trial of Duff Armstrong, Lincoln stepped straight into history as the hero of Americas freedom and the martyr of its ancient faith.

(First published in slightly different form in the September 2000 issue of Bench & Bar of Minnesota. Posted annually in honor of Lincolns birthday.)This is simply fantastic news:

The Trump administration has adopted new limits on the use of guidance documents that federal agencies have issued on almost every conceivable subject, an action that could have sweeping implications for the governments ability to sue companies accused of violations. Guidance documents offer the governments interpretation of laws, and often when individuals or companies face accusations of legal violations, what they have really violated are the guidance documents.  It also advances a goal declared by President Trump in his first days in office: to reduce the burden and cost of federal rules and requirements.  The new policy, issued by the No. 3 official at the Justice Department, Rachel L. Brand, is significant because federal agencies have issued hundreds of guidance documents on a wide range of laws covering issues like health care, the environment, civil rights and labor.

Many of the Obama administrations worst actions involved issuance of guidance, i.e., a left-wing interpretation of federal law that was often tendentious if not outright untenable. Nevertheless, most companies, universities, etc., were cowed into complying with Obamas guidances. Glenn Reynolds offers the definitive commentary:

Good. Guidance is bullshit. Either do a rule making, or stay home.

Rule making under the Administrative Procedure Act requires following an actual process, with public comment and opportunity for appeal. Thus it is inconvenient for leftists. Issuing guidance is an inappropriate shortcut that generally just means implementing the administrations political wish list.

This is another example of one of the Trump administrations greatest virtues: restoration of the rule of law.

It is also great for the economy. Why did the stock market begin to soar and economic growth accelerate after President Trump was elected, even before he was inaugurated and had any opportunity to implement his policies? Numerous business people have said that Trumps election meant that for at least four years, they did not have to fear sudden, arbitrary and expensive changes in federal regulation that imposed unreasonable burdens on their businesses, and were hard if not impossible to plan for. Thus companies started to invest in America even before Trump took office. The administrations repudiation of its predecessors guidance shortcuts confirms that businesses were right to expect a more normal regulatory regime under President Trump.Very sad news over the weekend of the passing of Jeff Bell, a truly original and important conservative thinker who first became well known in 1978 when he defeated the incumbent liberal Republican Senator Clifford Case in the primary election in New Jersey (going on to lose the general election that November to Bill Bradley). I didnt know him especially well, but he was a big fan of my Reagan books, and frequently offered his public praise for them, which was deeply flattering, needless to say.

Bell was a top aide to Ronald Reagan during Reagans second term as governor in California, and in the course of doing research on Reagan for my book I came across numerous thoughtful memos from Bell to Gov. Reagan that clearly played a role in the unfolding of Reagans thinking in the mid-1970s and the runup to Reagans challenge to Gerald Ford in 1976. I recall one early memo in particular from around 1973 or 1974 in which Bell outlined why and how Reagan should criticize detente as it was unfolding under Nixon and Forda view later more widely adopted as the neoconservatives showed up with the same critique. Bell was also the author of what was considered one of Reagans larger political mistakes: his proposal in the 1976 campaign to cut the federal budget by $90 billion (at a time when the total budget was only around $300 billion or so) and return more responsibilities to the states. While critics pounced, Reagan stoutly defended the idea, which in retrospect looks better all the time given todays runaway spending. (I tell this whole story in detail in chapter 10 of the first volume of The Age of Reagan.)

Bell could also be said to be the first person to anticipate the opening for Donald Trumpin fact as far back as 1992. In that year, which was soon to see the ignominious defeat of President George H.W. Bush at the hands of Bill Clinton, Bell published Populism and Elitism, in which he argued that Republican elites were growing increasingly out of touch with the grassroots, as the popularity of Ross Perot was showing. I reviewed the book at the time for Reason magazine, and noted:

Bell suggests that the real division between populism and elitism is not so much ideological class conflict but temperament: Populists have confidence in the peoples capacity to set social and political standards and make important decisions about how to run their lives, while elitists believe the people are incompetent to do so and wish to define the parameters of social and political life themselves. The elite, in other words, desire to be a de facto National Bureau of Standards and Practices. Hence, elitists exist across the political spectrum. . . Bells book is important because his intended audiencethe Republican leadership elite (one might call it the Busheoisie)doesnt have the first clue about most of his key themes. For a party and an administration of ambition without purpose, Bell provides a useful reality check. . . It is astonishing that the party that won the last national election through an appeal to values does not have a better grasp of this. Although Republicans are adept at running on values, they fully appreciate neither Bells insight into the divide between elitism and populism nor the opportunity open to them were they to capitalize rightly on populism. This isnt to suggest that Bell buys into the simple us vs. them theme that Republicans seem to think they can exploit forever at four-year intervals. Bell understands that the liberal elites may succeed in undermining conservative populist sentiment over time through the relentless crusade to establishwait for itmoral relativism as the preeminent principle in American society.

Also worth seeing the interview James Taranto did with Bell back in 2012 in the Wall Street Journal.North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister Yo-jong on Saturday delivered an invitation to Pyongyang from her brother to President Moon Jae-in. Moon met with Kim Yo-jong for about two hours and 40 minutes at Cheong Wa Dae. Moon was quoted as saying, "Let's create the conditions to make it possible." Over lunch, Moon also said, "U.S.-North Korean dialogue must be held soon in order for inter-Korean relations to progress."



President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister Kim Yo-jong (left) pose at Cheong Wa Dae on Saturday. /Newsis

But there was no mention of the North Korean nuclear issue or joint U.S.-South Korean military drills, according to Cheong Wa Dae. Kim Yo-jong arrived at Cheong Wa Dae carrying a blue folder with a letter from her brother that bore the official North Korean emblem. Cheong Wa Dae said it is diplomatic practice not to reveal the contents of a personal letter from a foreign head of state. The letter was less than a page long and was handwritten by Kim Jong-un. He reportedly wrote, "I request that you visit Pyongyang at a time convenient for you."

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister Kim Yo-jong carries a letter from her brother at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on Saturday. /Yonhap

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence was also in South Korea and keen to enforce his government's hard line on the North, ignoring Kim Yo-jong as they stood close to each other in the stands at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang on Friday. Joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises have been postponed until after the Olympics, but the U.S. insists that no further delays are possible. The North Korean leader shows no sign of budging on his nuclear program, having conducted four nuclear tests since he took power in 2012 and almost perfecting an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of reaching the continental U.S. That means the "conditions" Moon mentioned for his visit to Pyongyang are unlikely to materialize. A summit without any mention of denuclearization would face international condemnation, and weakening the U.S. military presence on the Korean Peninsula is also off the table. Nonetheless Cheong Wa Dae seems bent on capitalizing on the momentum, though it is unclear how the impasse can be overcome.Today is of course the anniversary of the birth of Americas greatest president, Abraham Lincoln. As a politician and as president, Lincoln was a profound student of the Constitution and constitutional history. Perhaps most important, Lincoln was Americas indispensable teacher of the moral ground of political freedom at the exact moment when the country was on the threshold of abandoning what he called its ancient faith that all men are created equal.

In 1858 Lincoln attained national prominence in the Republican Party as the result of the contest for the Senate seat held by Stephen Douglas. It was Lincolns losing campaign against Douglas that made him a figure of sufficient prominence that he could be the partys 1860 presidential nominee.

At the convention of the Illinois Republican Party in June, Lincoln was the unanimous choice to run against Douglas. After declaring him their candidate late on the afternoon of June 16, the entire convention returned that evening to hear Lincoln speak. Accepting the conventions nomination, Lincoln gave one of the most incendiary speeches in American history.

Lincoln electrified the convention, asserting that the institution of slavery had made the United States a house divided against itself. Slavery would either be extirpated or become lawful nationwide, Lincoln predicted, provocatively quoting scriptural authority to the effect that a house divided against itself cannot stand. Demonstrating how it changed the course of history, Harry Jaffa calls it [t]he speech that changed the world.

On July 9 Douglas responded in a campaign speech to a raucous throng from the balcony of the Tremont House hotel in Chicago. Lincoln was in the audience when Douglas prepared to speak and invited Lincoln to sit on the balcony. In his speech Douglas sounded the themes of the momentous campaign that Lincoln and Douglas waged that summer and fall for Douglass Senate seat.

Douglas paid tribute to Lincoln as a kind, amiable, and intelligent gentleman, a good citizen and an honorable opponent, but expressed his disagreement with Lincolns June 16 speech to the Illinois Republican convention that had named him its candidate for Douglass seat. According to Douglas, Lincolns assertion that the nation could not exist half slave and half free was inconsistent with the diversity in domestic institutions that was the great safeguard of our liberties. Then as now, diversity was a shibboleth hiding an evil institution that could not be defended on its own terms.

Douglas responded to Lincolns condemnation of the Supreme Courts Dred Scott decision  a condemnation that was the centerpiece of Lincolns convention speech. I am free to say to you, Douglas said, that in my opinion this government of ours is founded on the white basis. It was made by the white man, for the benefit of the white man, to be administered by white men, in such manner as they should determine.

Lincoln invited Douglass audience to return the next evening for his reply to Douglass speech. Lincolns speech of July 10 concludes with an explanation of the meaning of the American creed with matchless eloquence and insight, in words that remain as relevant now as then.

We are now a mighty nation, we are thirtyor about thirty millions of people, and we own and inhabit about one-fifteenth part of the dry land of the whole earth. We run our memory back over the pages of history for about eighty-two years and we discover that we were then a very small people in point of numbers, vastly inferior to what we are now, with a vastly less extent of country,with vastly less of everything we deem desirable among men,we look upon the change as exceedingly advantageous to us and to our posterity, and we fix upon something that happened away back, as in some way or other being connected with this rise of prosperity. We find a race of men living in that day whom we claim as our fathers and grandfathers; they were iron men, they fought for the principle that they were contending for; and we understood that by what they then did it has followed that the degree of prosperity that we now enjoy has come to us. We hold this annual celebration to remind ourselves of all the good done in this process of time of how it was done and who did it, and how we are historically connected with it; and we go from these [Independence Day] meetings in better humor with ourselveswe feel more attached the one to the other, and more firmly bound to the country we inhabit. In every way we are better men in the age, and race, and country in which we live for these celebrations. But after we have done all this we have not yet reached the whole. There is something else connected with it. We have besides these mendescended by blood from our ancestorsamong us perhaps half our people who are not descendants at all of these men, they are men who have come from EuropeGerman, Irish, French and Scandinavianmen that have come from Europe themselves, or whose ancestors have come hither and settled here, finding themselves our equals in all things. If they look back through this history to trace their connection with those days by blood, they find they have none, they cannot carry themselves back into that glorious epoch and make themselves feel that they are part of us, but when they look through that old Declaration of Independence they find that those old men say that We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, and then they feel that that moral sentiment taught in that day evidences their relation to those men, that it is the father of all moral principle in them, and that they have a right to claim it as though they were blood of the blood, and flesh of the flesh of the men who wrote that Declaration [loud and long continued applause], and so they are. That is the electric cord in that Declaration that links the hearts of patriotic and liberty-loving men together, that will link those patriotic hearts as long as the love of freedom exists in the minds of men throughout the world. [Applause.] Now, sirs, for the purpose of squaring things with this idea of dont care if slavery is voted up or voted down [Douglass popular sovereignty position on the extension of slavery to the territories], for sustaining the Dred Scott decision [A voiceHit him again], for holding that the Declaration of Independence did not mean anything at all, we have Judge Douglas giving his exposition of what the Declaration of Independence means, and we have him saying that the people of America are equal to the people of England. According to his construction, you Germans are not connected with it. Now I ask you in all soberness, if all these things, if indulged in, if ratified, if confirmed and endorsed, if taught to our children, and repeated to them, do not tend to rub out the sentiment of liberty in the country, and to transform this Government into a government of some other form. Those arguments that are made, that the inferior race are to be treated with as much allowance as they are capable of enjoying; that as much is to be done for them as their condition will allow. What are these arguments? They are the arguments that kings have made for enslaving the people in all ages of the world. You will find that all the arguments in favor of king-craft were of this class; they always bestrode the necks of the people, not that they wanted to do it, but because the people were better off for being ridden. That is their argument, and this argument of the Judge [Douglas] is the same old serpent that says you work and I eat, you toil and I will enjoy the fruits of it. Turn in whatever way you willwhether it come from the mouth of a King, an excuse for enslaving the people of his country, or from the mouth of men of one race as a reason for enslaving the men of another race, it is all the same old serpent, and I hold if that course of argumentation that is made for the purpose of convincing the public mind that we should not care about this, should be granted, it does not stop with the negro. I should like to know if taking this old Declaration of Independence, which declares that all men are equal upon principle and making exceptions to it where will it stop. If one man says it does not mean a negro, why not another say it does not mean some other man? If that declaration is not the truth, let us get the Statute book, in which we find it and tear it out! Who is so bold as to do it! [Voicesme no one, &c.] If it is not true let us tear it out! [cries of no, no,] let us stick to it then [cheers], let us stand firmly by it then. [Applause.]

Thank you, Mr. Lincoln: Let us stick to it then, let us stand firmly by it then. (First posted on Lincolns birthday 2005.)Herb Keinon, writing in the Jerusalem Post, argues that Russia could be a big loser if, as seems increasingly likely, Israel is drawn into a fight with Iran in Syria. He explains:

Russia moved forces into Syria in 2015 with one purpose in mind: Save Syrian President Bashar Assad. And since then, Moscow has spent billions of rubles and spilled Russian blood to do just that: Help the Assad regain control of the country from Syrian rebels and Islamic State. And now, just as Moscow seems on the cusp of achieving its goals in Syria and serving as kingmaker in determining post-civil war arrangements, the last thing it needs or wants is for largescale Israeli military involvement that could threaten everything it hoped to gain. Moscow wants to stabilize Syria right now. A confrontation between Israel and Iran there would badly destabilize the country and could cost Russia its most important asset in the region.

But can Russia head off such a confrontation? According to Keinon, when Benjamin Netanyahu, during his periodic visits to Moscow, pushes Vladimir Putin to prevent Iran from establishing military bases in Syria that threaten Israel, Putins standard answer is that Iran is sovereign country, not a client state of Russia. Israel thinks Putin is being disingenuous  that if Russia wanted to, it could dictate to Iran.

Im not convinced of this. Iran is determined to build puts its military presence in Syria. Its regional ambitions require this. And Putin is right, Iran is not his client.

Russia is not without leverage, of course. It is not Irans military protector in the strong sense. However, its weapons systems help protect Iranian nuclear facilities and its air power assists Iranian forces in Syria. Moreover, Russia can protect Iran from economic sanctions, or at least the full weight of them.

However, with the sanctions relief provided by Barack Obama, plus all of the cash he forked over, I question whether Russias economic leverage would be sufficient to induce Iran to pull back in Syria. Indeed, the fact that Iran has taken such an aggressive posture towards Israel despite Netanyahus repeated requests that Russia call of the mullahs, and despite his warnings as to how Israel will respond if Iran doesnt back off, suggests to me that Russia cant control Iran. Or maybe Russia simply doesnt share the view that conflict between Iran and Israel will materially harm its interests.

Now that conflict between Israel and Iran in Syria seems to have broken out, I suppose well find out how badly Russia wants to curb it and/or whether it has the power to do so.Yesterday, as Omri Ceren reported, the Israeli air force struck in Syria after Iran sent a drone into Israel. The Israelis lost a fighter jet, the first time in 30 years an Israeli jet has been lost in combat. On the plus side, Israel reportedly inflicted serious damage on multiple air defense batteries and four Iranian positions in Syria including the mobile command center from which the Iranian drone was operated.

For me, the question is whether this fighting marks the beginning of an extended conflict between Israel and its enemies, most notably Iran, in Syria. This report by Anna Ahronheim in the Jerusalem Post suggests that it does. Indeed, Ahronheim argues that Israel is about to become a key player in the next chapter of the Syrian war.

Why? Because the defeat of the Syrian rebels means that Iranian and Hezbollah fighters will likely turn their attention to Israel and, in particular, the Golan Heights. Indeed, its difficult to understand why Iran would send a highly sophisticated drone into Israel unless it is seriously considering military action against the Jewish State.

Israel will not tolerate an Iranian military buildup anywhere near its border. Today, Maj.-Gen. Yoel Strick, head of the Northern Commend, said:

Iranian involvement in the region is a disturbing threat to Israel and the entire world. Iran wants to create a front command in Syria  we will not allow it. We are not inclined toward escalation, but we have high-level capabilities and we will not hesitate to use them.

Another Israeli commander warned not only of the Iranian entrenchment across the border, but also of the return of Syrian troops to an area which was relatively quiet for close to six years while under the control of rebels. We must prepare ourselves operationally and in terms of intelligence for the growing threat: The return of the Syrian army and Iranian forces, Hezbollah and others, he stated.

Benjamin Netanyahu had a similar message. He said, Israel wants peace, but we will continue to defend ourselves with determination against any attack on us and against any attempt by Iran to entrench itself militarily in Syria or anywhere else.

In this context, Israels attack on Syrian air defenses shouldnt be viewed simply as retaliation. Rather, it seems like an effort to pave the way for future air attacks if they become necessary.

Following yesterdays confrontation, witnesses reported seeing a convoy of missile-defense batteries heading north near the Israeli-Arab city of Baka al-Gharbiya. Other witnesses posted photos of several trucks carrying the batteries on central highways in northern Israel.

A senior official in Israels defense establishment has gone on record that, given Irans intentions, the next incident is only a matter of time. His assessment seems more than reasonable.President Andrzej Duda sent a video message to the participants of the Polish-American Leadership

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear Friends,

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the first ever Polish-American Leadership

Summit  Poland Investment Zone, which I have granted my honorary patronage.

This is a very important initiative which complements the calendar of Polish-

American political contacts by adding to them an equally important dimension: the

economic one.

The fact that the Summit takes place in 2018, on the Centenary of Regaining

Independence by Poland, is of symbolic value. 2018 is also a very special year in

our relations with the United States: on January 8, 1918 President Woodrow

Wilson announced his Plan for Peace: The Fourteen Points. For Poland, point

13 was the most significant one, providing for the creation of an independent Polish

state. The Declaration has been seen - back then and now - as a landmark event on

Polands way towards regaining independence after 123 years of partitions.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Political relations between Warsaw and Washington are nowadays particularly

intense, especially in the area of security. In effect, from 2017 on, US troops

have been stationing on the Polish territory. Their presence is the most telling

manifestation of an authentic allied solidarity and partnership. Our security

cooperation also covers the modernization of the Polish army.

Economic contacts are beginning to feature importantly as another pillar of

our cooperation. The United States are a key business partner for us, this due

to the immense scale of business done here and due to its innovative spirit.

The previous year may be a good prognostic here: in terms of bilateral trade,

it was record breaking year, the volume growing by more than 20 percent year-

on-year, exceeding 10 billion USD.

For Poland, of key importance is also transfer of innovative technologies and

solutions, the factors stimulating modernization of the countrys economy.

Innovation as a way to help us escape the so called middle income trap has great

prospects for development in Poland. Conducive environment for innovation has

been created in the Strategy for Responsible Development, the strategic program

of the Polish government. Nevertheless, in the first place, growth of innovation is

only possible thanks to the entrepreneurship, creativity and solid education of the

Polish people. The latter build a good foundation for further investments to be

undertaken by American firms in Poland.

It must be emphasized that year in year out, the volume of Polish investments in the

United States has been also increasing. Next to the European Union, the United

States ranks among the most important investment destinations for Polish

companies. IT companies, biotechnology, medical and space technology firms are

all looking for opportunities to grow on the American market.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In July 2017, Poland organized in Warsaw the Summit Meeting of the Three

Seas Initiative. President Donald Trumps presence in this event has shown

that the Initiative attracts keen interest of the United States. The Initative

comes as yet another impulse strengthening the relations between Central European

countries who are European Union members on the one hand, and the whole

transatlantic community, on the other.

The topic of energy features importantly in the Three Seas Initiative. In this

connection, it is gratifying that Poland is the first country in the region to have

benefitted from the contract on supplies of American liquified natural gas

which were delivered last year. Cooperation in this area will not only strengthen

energy security of Central Europe but also further economic growth of the United

States.

Expressing my appreciation to the organizers and participants of todays Summit, I

wish you successful deliberations, good exchange of experience, many new

business contacts to be made, the contacts which will lend new quality to Polish-

American economic relations.

Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you very much. All the best!Krzysztof Lapinski, spokesman for Polish President Andrzej Duda, said on Monday that Poland expects Lithuania to respect the rights of national minorities, and hopes to tighten bilateral relations. President Duda is set to arrive in Vilnius on Thursday.

The Polish head of state will be accompanied by First Lady Agata Kornhauser-Duda and they will attend ceremonies to mark the 100th anniversary of the restoration of the State of Lithuania.

Asked about the upcoming visit in a TV interview, the presidential spokesman said it would offer a chance to improve Polish-Lithuanian relations.

"If the President responds to the invitation of the Lithuanian head of state and travels to attend these ceremonies which are important and symbolic for the Lithuanians," Lapinski said, "then it is also symbolic in that it shows we want to tighten or nurture relations with our neighbour."

"At the same time," he added, "the will of both sides is required."

As the spokesman said, there exists a Lithuanian diaspora in Poland, whom the host country is treating very well in every respect.

"We are also expecting certain reciprocity," he noted, "so that Poles in Lithuania are treated as fully-entitled citizens, in line with all the standards for the rights of national minorities, developed over the past decades by the European Union and other international institutions."

Krzysztof Lapinski specified that this applies to how Polish names are spelt in Lithuania, among other issues, but noted that "we are not demanding extra privileges for Poles." (PAP)The Dearborn Public Schools and the Adult Education Department have partnered with Henry Ford College, the American Arab Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights, and the City of Dearborn to host a Career & Job Fair from 5 to 8 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center.

Students, alumni and the public are invited to attend to gather information and talk with representatives of a wide variety of hiring employers.

The event is free and open to the public. No pre-registration is required.

A wide variety of businesses and organizations will be available to talk with participants about job opportunities. Some of the industries that will be represented at the job fair include:

-health

-technology

-U.S. Armed Forces

-education

-financial services

-retail

-colleges and universities

-construction trades

Businesses interested in hosting a recruitment table at the Career and Job Fair can contact the American Arab Chamber of Commerce at 313-945-1700 for table fees and details.

For more information, call Wedad Maatouk, Career/College/CTE Community Partnership Liaison for Dearborn Public Schools Adult Education at 313-827-4820.

The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Ave.

Source: Dearborn Public SchoolsReservations for international flights have jumped as many Koreans plan to take overseas trips during the Lunar New Year break from Wednesday to Sunday.

Korean Air had booking rates of 97 percent for its flights to Europe over the period, while tickets to Australia, Guam, and New Zealand were 87 percent booked, and those to China, Japan, and Southeast Asia 70 percent, industry sources said on Saturday.

At Asiana Airlines, booking rates for tickets to Southeast Asia came to 85.4 percent, 84.6 percent to Japan and 83.3 percent to Europe. The rates spiked up to 96-99 percent for flights to Bangkok, Okinawa, Rome and San Francisco.

Low-cost flights to popular destinations have been almost fully booked too. The bookings on flights to Japan stood at 92 percent and those to Hong Kong and Macau at 91 percent. Jin Air also had high booking rates for flights to Sapporo (95 percent) and Fukuoka, Guam, and Hawaii (93 percent).

Another budget carrier, Air Seoul, has sold all its tickets to Osaka and Tokyo for the period.

Ticket prices have risen accordingly. At low-cost airlines, round-trip tickets to Okinawa rose from around W300,000 to over W500,000 over the period, while tickets to Guam rose to over W700,000 (US$1=W1,090).The Mangyongbong-92, a North Korean ship that had transported an orchestra to South Korea for performances marking the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, left Mukho port in Gangwon Province on Saturday without taking on any fuel supplies.

The day before its departure, the North withdrew an earlier request for fuel to the South Korean government, according to the Unification Ministry. The North made the request right after the ship's arrival on Feb. 6.

The ministry had originally intended to provide fuel for the ship as it did during the Busan Asian Games in 2002 but changed its mind after it was pointed out that this could violate international sanctions against the North.

South and North Korean officials kept discussing the matter for four days but failed to agree on conditions. "It seems that during the talks the North decided not to take on fuel in order not to cause any trouble to the South," a ministry official said.Companies join forces to deliver best-in-class loyalty travel solutions for clients

STAMFORD, Conn., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Affinion Group, a global leader in loyalty and customer engagement, today announced the acquisition of one of its top technology partners, Tavisca Solutions, a leading provider of innovative technology to the travel industry.

Tavisca Solutions works with loyalty and leisure travel companies, including Affinion Group's Connexions Loyalty division, to help them support and grow their online travel solutions. Tavisca powers millions of travel bookings per year for leading travel companies globally.

"The combination of Connexions and Tavisca allows us the ability to expand upon our leading loyalty travel technology platform and continue to provide best-in-class service to our clients and their customers," said Todd Siegel, Chief Executive Officer, Affinion Group. "Our clients are looking for service providers to help them navigate the changing technology landscape to improve the customer experience through leading digital platforms and innovative solutions. This acquisition will help us strengthen and expand our loyalty platform capabilities to help our clients improve program efficiency, customer loyalty, and customer lifetime value."

Tavisca is headquartered in Pune, India, with a U.S. office in Plano, TX, and employs over 300 technology developers and support staff.

"Being acquired by Connexions will help further our combined goal to build world class products and solve key problems in online travel interfaces around the globe," said Mahendra Yadav, Chief Executive Officer, Tavisca Solutions. "We are excited to join the Connexions team and continue to deliver innovative technology solutions to the travel industry."

For more information, visit www.Affinion.com or cxloyalty.com

About Tavisca Solutions

Tavisca Solutions powers more than 4.8 million travel bookings per year for leading B2C, loyalty-based travel and B2B travel companies globally. Tavisca Solutions helps travel brands transform themselves into technology-centric market leaders in travel, empowering their vision and scaling their business. They recently launched OneConnect  the only travel supplier integration you will ever need. Established in 2008, Tavisca has emerged into a team of travel technology specialists with over 300 dedicated personnel and a state-of-the-art development center in India, and a sales and marketing office in the U.S. For more information, visit www.tavisca.com.

About Affinion Group

Affinion is one of the world's leading loyalty and customer engagement solutions companies servicing over 250 million consumers with more than 6,000 client partner relationships and over 40 years of experience. We design, administer and fulfill loyalty and customer engagement programs that strengthen and expand the value of relationships for our leading clients around the globe, including many of the largest and most respected companies in the financial services, retail, travel, and internet commerce sectors. Based in Stamford, CT, the Company has over 3,500 employees located in 20 countries across the globe. For more information, visit www.affinion.com.

About Connexions Loyalty

As experts in customer loyalty for more than 35 years, Connexions Loyalty helps organizations motivate, reward and retain their customers and partners. The world's top brands turn to us for loyalty management, consumer rewards, rewards fulfillment and card benefits. Our loyalty programs are available to more than 200 million people in North America, South America and Asia. Connexions Loyalty, an Affinion Group company, employs more than 900 talented team members with offices in the United States and Hong Kong. For more information, visit cxloyalty.com.

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Related Links

http://www.affiniongroup.com



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Browse 65 Tables and 52 Figures spread through 161 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Artificial Intelligence in Aviation Market"



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The major factors driving the growth of the AI in aviation market include the use of big data in the aerospace industry, significant increase in capital investments by aviation companies, and rising adoption of cloud-based applications and services in the aviation industry.

Machine learning to hold the largest share of the AI in aviation market in 2018

Machine learning enables systems to automatically improve their performance with experience. This technology holds a major share of the AI in aviation market owing to its ability to collect and handle big data, along with its increased ability to perform previously impossible calculations.

AI in aviation market for hardware to grow at a high rate between 2018 and 2025

The growth of the market for hardware can be attributed to the increasing need for hardware platforms with high computing power to run various machine learning algorithms both on servers and on devices. AI systems require highly effective and efficient hardware to display intelligent capabilities similar to the human brain.

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AI in aviation market for surveillance to grow at a high rate between 2018 and 2025

The growth of the market for surveillance applications can be attributed to the ongoing developments in the field of AI-enabled drone surveillance, specifically designed for inspection purposes in the aviation industry. For example, in September 2017, Aerialtronics DV B.V. (Netherlands), Neurala (US), and NVIDIA (US) collectively developed an AI-based drone for flight inspections. Such product launches and developments are expected to drive the growth of the AI in aviation market for surveillance applications.

North America to hold the largest share of the overall AI in aviation market by 2025

Virtual assistance, smart maintenance, manufacturing, and surveillance are some of the major application areas for AI in the aviation sector in North America. Further, the US is one of the leading countries in the world in terms of adopting AI technologies in multiple application areas. Also, continuous growth in the number of air travelers is encouraging airline companies to adopt AI in their daily operations to enhance their efficiency.

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Some of the key players operating in the AI in aviation market are Intel (US), NVIDIA (US), IBM (US), Micron (US), Samsung (South Korea), Xilinx (US), Amazon (US), Microsoft (US), Airbus (France), Boeing (US), General Electric (US), Thales (France), Lockheed Martin (US), and Garmin (US).

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Artificial Intelligence (Chipsets) Market by Technology (Deep Learning, Robotics, Digital Personal Assistant, Querying Method, Natural Language Processing, Context Aware Processing), Offering, End-User Industry, and Geography - Global Forecast to 2022

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/artificial-intelligence-market-74851580.html

Deep Learning Market by Application (Image Recognition, Signal Recognition, Data Mining), Offering (Hardware (Von Neumann and Neuromorphic Chip), and Software), End-User Industry, and Geography - Global Forecasts to 2022

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/deep-learning-market-107369271.html

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Future Market Insights presents a new report titled 'Confectionery Packaging Market: Global Industry Analysis 2012 - 2016 and Opportunity Assessment 2017 - 2027' that studies the performance of the global confectionery packaging market over a 10 year assessment period from 2017 to 2027. The report presents the value and volume forecasts of the global confectionery packaging market and provides important insights into the factors driving market growth as well as the factors restricting market growth. As per the assessment of Future Market Insights, the global confectionery packaging market was estimated to be valued at nearly US$ 9,200 Mn in 2017 and is anticipated to touch a valuation of nearly US$ 13,200 Mn in 2027 and in the process exhibit a CAGR of 3.7% during the period of forecast 2017-2027.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161020/430874LOGO )



Anthropomorphic Packaging to Leverage Consumer Appeal Towards Characters in Popular Culture Trending the North America Regional Market

Incorporating anthropomorphic designs of attractive and popular characters into packaging has enabled sweets and candy brands to attract children and fans of such popular characters. Building candy packs in the shape of fictional characters help marketers to leverage the trending popularity of these fictional characters in attracting fans into buying these candies. The trend of anthropomorphic packaging is prevalent in markets with a considerable adoption of popular culture like comics, action and adventure movies and other famous fictional characters. Local as well as international manufacturers of confectionery products regularly develop products in the shape of trending characters and source packaging that suits the shape of such products. Developing, designing and manufacturing anthropomorphic packaging requires packaging companies to possess custom manufacturing capabilities and also the ability to cost effectively run small volume batches.

Request a Sample Report with Table of Contents and Figures: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1101

Global Confectionery Packaging Market: Segmentation and Forecast

The global confectionery packaging market is segmented on the basis of confectionery type, material type, packaging form and region.

By confectionery type, the chocolate confectionery segment was estimated to be valued at nearly US$ 4,100 Mn in 2017 and is likely to reach a valuation of nearly US$ 6,100 Mn in 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.1% during the period of assessment 2017-2027.

in 2017 and is likely to reach a valuation of nearly in 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.1% during the period of assessment 2017-2027. By material type, the metal segment was estimated to be valued at nearly US$ 660 Mn in 2017. The Plastic segment is anticipated to remain the most attractive material type over the forecast period due to barrier properties such as moisture resistance, which is favourable for the packaging of confectionery such as chocolates and gums.

in 2017. The Plastic segment is anticipated to remain the most attractive material type over the forecast period due to barrier properties such as moisture resistance, which is favourable for the packaging of confectionery such as chocolates and gums. By packaging form, the flexible packaging segment was estimated to be valued at nearly US$ 4,800 Mn in 2017 and is expected to witness a growth rate of 4.3% during the period of assessment.

in 2017 and is expected to witness a growth rate of 4.3% during the period of assessment. By region, the Western Europe confectionery packaging market is anticipated to reach a valuation of US$ 3,160 Mn in 2027, displaying a CAGR of 2.3% during the period of forecast.

Preview Analysis on Confectionery Packaging Market Segmentation By Confectionery Type - Chocolate Confectionery (Courtlines,Slabs/bars/blocks,Boxed assortments,Tablets,Chocolate with toys,Others), Sugar Confectionery( Gums, Jellies & Pastilles,Medicated confectionery,Mints,Boiled sweets,Toffees, caramels,Lollipops,Other sugar confectionery),Gums(Chewing gum,Bubble gum);By Material Type - Plastic,Paper & Paperboard,Metal,Aluminum Foil,Glass; By Packaging Form Type - Flexible Packaging, Rigid Packaging: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/confectionery-packaging-market

Global Confectionery Packaging Market: Competitive Landscape

In this report, some of the key players functioning in the global confectionery packaging market have been profiled, which include players such as Amcor Limited, Smurfit Kappa Group, Sealed Air Corporation, Bemis Company, Inc., Crown Holdings, Inc., Berry Global, Inc., Huhtamaki Oyj, Mondi Group, DS Smith Plc., International Paper Company, Sonoco Products Company, WestRock Company, Clondalkin Group Holdings B.V., Schur Flexibles Holding GesmbH, Ahlstrom-Munksjo Oyj, Bomarko Inc., Printpack Inc., Stanpac Inc., MOD-PAC Corp. and Tomric Systems, Inc.

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More from FMI's Cutting-edge Intelligence:

Bubble Wrap Packaging Market Bubble Wrap Packaging Market Segmentation Product Type - Limited Grade Bubble Wraps, General Grade Bubble Wraps, High Grade Bubble Wraps, Temperature Controlled Bubble Wraps, Others; End Use - Personal care and cosmetics, Healthcare, Homecare, Automotive and Allied Industries, Electrical & Electronics, e-Commerce, Shipping & Logistics, Food & Beverages; Material - Polyethylene (PE), Polyamide (PA), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Other materials: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/bubble-wrap-packaging-market

Plastic Rigid IBC Market Plastic Rigid IBC Market Segmentation Capacity Type - Up to 500 liters, 500-1000 liters, 1000-1500 liters, 1500-2000 liters, Above 2000 liters; Material Type - High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Low density polyethylene (LDPE), Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Others; End Use - Industrial Chemicals, Petroleum & Lubricants, Food & Beverages, Paints, Inks & Dyes, Pharmaceuticals, Other End Users: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/plastic-rigid-ibc-market

Sanitary Food and Beverage Packaging Market Sanitary Food and Beverage Packaging Market Segmentation Packaging Type - Paperboard, Rigid Plastic, Glass, Flexible Plastic, Metal, Other Packaging Types; Product Type - Milk and Other Beverage Cartons, Cups and Liquid Tight Containers, Folding Food Containers, Boards and Trays, Other Product Types: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sanitary-food-and-beverage-packaging-market

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Browse 71 Tables and 40 Figures spread through 122 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Construction Films Market"



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The substantial increase in the demand for construction films to conserve energy and block UV light to fight damage to furnishings due to fading is driving the construction films market. Construction films also help contain broken glasses that enhance safety and security. The installation of these films is expected to grow due to the rising concerns over safety and security in both, residential and commercial constructions.

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Based on type, the PP/BOPP segment of the construction films market is projected to grow at the highest CAGR, in terms of value and volume, during the forecast period.

PP films can be metalized to enhance the gas barrier properties for applications that demand long shelf life of products. PP films are being increasingly used due to their excellent moisture barrier characteristics, good clarity, and high gloss and tensile strength. PP films are used in roofing, carpet cushioning, etc.



Based on application, the barriers & protective segment is projected to lead the construction films market, in terms of value and volume, during the forecast period

The high demand for construction films as vapor barriers, gas barriers, building enclosures, window films, UV protection, floor underlay, basement capping, etc., is driving the construction films market. Construction films are used as vapor barriers, as these films block the water vapor from the ground underneath the building.

The APAC region is estimated to be the largest market for construction films in 2017, in terms of value and volume.

The APAC region is estimated to be the largest market for construction films in 2017. The growth of the APAC construction films market can be attributed to industrial expansion, the presence of well-established manufacturers, and technological advancements in construction in the region.

Key players in the Construction Films Market include Saint-Gobain (France), Berry Global Group (Lithuania), Eastman Chemical (Switzerland), Raven (US), RKW SE (Germany), Polyplex Corporation (Thailand), Climax Synthetic (India), Tech Folien (UK), PLASTIKA KRITIS (Greece), QINGDAO KF PLASTICS (China), and Polifilm Extrusion (Germany).

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https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/industrial-film-market-227835863.html

Construction Composites Market by Fiber Type (Carbon, and Natural Fiber), Resin Type (Polyester, Vinyl Ester, Polyethylene and Polypropylene), Application (Industrial, Commercial, Housing and Civil) - Global Forecast to 2026

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Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model - GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.

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SOURCE MarketsandMarketsThe Bank of Korea on Friday signed a 100 million Swiss franc currency-swap agreement with the central bank of Switzerland. The three-year deal can be renewed.

The Swiss franc is one of the world's six leading currencies together with the U.S. dollar, Japanese yen, euro, British pound and Canadian dollar.

Korea signed a currency-swap deal with Canada in November last year, and the agreement with Switzerland completes similar deals with the issuing countries of all six.

NEW DELHI, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Three entrepreneurs bringing disruption in Healthcare industry through the power of Social media

IIT Delhi alumni, Pawan Gupta, Nipun Goyal and Mudit Vijayvergiya, the founding team behind Curofy, a leading social media networking app for doctors, make their way to Forbes India magazine's '30 Under 30' 2018 in the category Social Media, Mobile Tech & Communication.

The selection in Forbes '30 Under 30' can be considered as the milestone of Pawan, Nipun and Mudit's journey 'to help doctors diagnose and cure faster' by providing vast network of credible doctors through a user-friendly application. Curofy helps doctors in performing better treatment of patients through impeccable information and concerned knowledge-sharing. Their strategically designed social networking platform has brought disruption in the medical communication industry, resulting in saving lives of people in critical cases.

On winning the recognition, Nipun said, "The entire journey of all three of us right from being brought up in a middle-class family to studying in IIT and leaving behind a well-paid job to start Curofy has started paying off. We are overwhelmed with the recognition and have come a long way by making our name in Forbes '30 Under 30' list."

"Bringing a revolution in the Indian digital ecosystem through Curofy was not an easy task. We witnessed a new challenge, vision and a fair amount of highs and lows every day. However, our persistence is the biggest attribute for the success of our venture," he added.

Launched in 2015, Curofy has built more than an expected impact within a short span. It has acquired large number of the doctors digitally where over 2,20,000 verified doctors discuss more than 500 cases everyday.

Apart from connecting doctors from all over the country, Curofy also encourages real time peer-to-peer learning and knowledge sharing. Doctors coming across unusual cases that require further opinion can post anonymous images and necessary details on the app. It acts as a support system for them which help in solving problems in a much efficient way by seeking second opinion.

In addition, Curofy is planning to reach out to over 70 per cent of 1.5 million Indian doctors by 2020. They want to help other industry stakeholders to use this network and engagement to reach out to doctors. All stakeholders who are creating value for doctors could use Curofy to create their own platforms or devices.

The other winners of the '30 Under 30' list include Bhumi Pednekar, Jasprit Bumrah, Heena Sidhu, Mithila Palkar, Harmanpreet Kaur, Vicky Kaushal and many more.

About Curofy:

Curofy is India's largest community of verified doctors. Developed with an objective to bridge distance among doctors and help them collaborate to solve the cases, Curofy offers doctors a spam-free and secure environment to communicate with each other. Doctors can provide referrals, share cases, call other doctors without saving numbers and have access to most recent, specialty-wise developments taking place in various fields of medicine, thus providing them a platform for collaborative learning.

Launched in 2015, Curofy has built more than an expected impact within a short span. It has acquired 90% of the doctors digitally where over 2,20,000 verified doctors discuss more than 500 cases everyday. For more details, visit: https://curofy.com/ .

Media Contact:

Sanya Bajaj

[email protected]

+91-9711871891

PR Coordinator, Curofy



SOURCE CurofyPORTLAND, Oregon and PUNE, India, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, "Fuel Cards Market by Type and Application: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2017-2023," the global fuel cards market was valued at $595,720 million in 2016, and is projected to reach $842,410 million by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2017 to 2023.

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The fuel refill application segment witnessed high demand in 2016, as fuel cards help to determine the gallons or liters of fuel filled along with the details on mileage of vehicles. In addition, increase in usage of cashless payment methods, growth associated with prepaid cards, and rise in number of fleet owners and small and medium enterprises are expected to fuel the fuel cards market growth in the near future. Moreover, the vehicle service segment witnessed increased adoption of fuel cards across various regions, owing to increase in number of fleets globally that use cards to pay for vehicle maintenance and expenses at the discretion of the fleet owner.

Request Sample Report at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/2969

The Europe fuel cards market was the largest in terms of market size in 2016, owing to growth in the automobile sector and developments in smart chip technology. Global players focus on offering value-added services such as payment of vehicle repairs and other expenses to strengthen their product offering. In addition, industry participants are focused on providing enhanced security to avoid any fraud or misuse of payment transactions. Major oil companies, merchants, and suppliers need to securely receive a huge range of payments instruments, including partner fuel and loyalty cards. In addition, with strict regulations, fleet cards providers need to adapt to varying legal frameworks, as well as numerous cybersecurity threats.

Increase in demand for mobile payments and rise in number of large fleets are anticipated to augment the market penetration. The prominent markets, such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, provide growth opportunities to the global fuel cards market. Moreover, growth in adoption of cashless payments methods is expected to boost the fuel cards market growth in the near future.

Europe was the highest revenue contributor in 2016, accounting for around 42.09% share of the overall fuel cards market. In addition, Asia-Pacific is projected to grow at the highest CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period, driven by rise in number of motor vehicles in emerging countries such as China, South Korea, and Japan.

For Purchase Enquiry: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/2969

The key players profiled in the study include Royal Dutch Shell, ExxonMobil, British Petroleum, FleetCor, U.S. Bancorp, Wex, Inc., Oilibya, Puma Energy, Engen, and First National Bank. All these players are involved in competitive strategies, such as geographical expansion, mergers & acquisitions, product portfolio expansion, and partnership, to accelerate the fuel cards market.

KEY FINDINGS OF THE STUDY

The universal fuel card type accounted for the highest share of the global market in 2016, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2017 to 2023.

Europe generated the highest revenue in 2016, valued at $250,739 million .

generated the highest revenue in 2016, valued at . The fuel refill segment dominated the global fuel card market, in terms of market size, during the forecast period.

U.S. dominated the North America fuel cards market in 2016. In addition, Canada , China , India , South Africa , and the other emerging markets are anticipated to provide significant opportunities for major players.

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About Us:

Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.

We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry.

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SOURCE Allied Market ResearchHYDERABAD, India, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Granules India Ltd., a growing pharmaceutical manufacturing company, today announced the financial results for its third quarter ended 31st December, 2017.

Quarterly Financial Highlights of Q3FY18 Consolidated Margins (%) Revenue: INR 411 Cr. EBITDA: INR 75 Cr. 18.2% Net Profit: INR 35 Cr. 8.5%

The Company's standalone sales during the quarter were INR 413 Cr. In this quarter, the Company recorded EBITDA and PAT of INR 78 Cr. and INR 34 Cr. respectively.

The Company's Board of Directors have approved third interim dividend of 25 paise per share of face value of Rs. 1 each.

"Our journey towards sustainability continues as we report steady growth in our business performance. Revenue growth of 14% in the current quarter is the outcome of our investments in capacity expansion in both APIs and PFIs. However, increased cost for some of our key raw materials and forex fluctuation has impacted profit for the quarter under review. Going ahead, we are optimistic of strengthening our growth by leveraging enhanced production capacities, until our new business initiatives start contributing positively as supplementary growth drivers of the Company," said Mr. Krishna Prasad Chigurupati, Chairman and Managing Director.

About Granules India Ltd. (BSE: 532482) and (NSE: GRANULES)

Granules India is a growing pharmaceutical manufacturing company with best in class facilities and is committed to operational excellence, quality and customer service. The Company produces Finished Dosages (FDs), Pharmaceutical Formulation Intermediates (PFIs) and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) which gives the customers flexibility and choice. Granules support customers with unique value, extensive product range, and proactive solutions. The Company's global presence extends to over 250 customers in 60 countries through offices in India, U.S., and U.K.

For more details, visit http://www.granulesindia.com/

Media Contact:

Hari Prasad Gogikar

[email protected]

+91-9618883774

Concept Public Relation India Limited



SOURCE Granules India Ltd.NEW DELHI, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

The Indian subsidiary of Igenomix has shifted to its all-new big lab this new year. The lab has also been updated with the most advanced equipment for targeted sequencing of the genes, Ion S5 Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Systems by Thermofisher. The simple cartridge-loaded reagents and a straightforward user-interface will make sample processing fast and easy for Ion S5 systems with Ion Chef. The Ion Chef System fully automates library preparation and template preparation, providing the chips ready to sequence on S5 sequencer.

(Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/449323/PRNE_Igenomix_Logo.jpg )

(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/640832/Igenomix_India_Lab.jpg )





The NGS technology is a high-throughput methodology enabling the rapid sequencing of the base pairs in DNA or RNA samples. It supports the broad range of applications, including gene expression profiling, chromosome counting, detection of epigenetic changes, and molecular analysis. With the application of Ion S5 in the NGS systems, targeted sequencing of genes is now simpler than ever.

Why Ion S5 NGS systems are better over any other NGS systems:

Less than 15 minutes of sequencing set up time

30 minutes of hands-on time for library and template prep

Easy and accurate RFID tracking

DNA to data in as little as 24 hours

As little as 1 ng of DNA or RNA for low-quality, low-input samples

With the simplest DNA-to-data workflow for targeted sequencing with industry-leading speed and affordability, Ion S5 in NGS systems allows to spend less time doing repetitive lab work, and more time answering the critical questions in the research. The Ion S5 Systems are the only benchtop NGS platforms with run times as short as 2.5 hours, and rapid DNA-to-data workflows that can be completed in as little as 24 hours.

The new lab which is in the heart of south Delhi, Green Park area is operational from January 2018.

With more than 20 years of industry experience, Igenomix is now present in over 50 countries with more than 12 labs worldwide. Boasting of their efforts in Research and Development, Igenomix is always the first one to adopt the latest technologies worldwide.

Igenomix, an international biotechnology company is offering progressive services in reproductive genetics. Its combined experience and advanced research abilities make it one of the world leaders in this field and guarantee the provision of effective solutions personalized to different infertility problems. It is present in Valencia (Spain), Miami, Los Angeles, New York, Mexico City, UK, Japan, Sao Paulo, Dubai, Delhi, Turkey and Argentina with a workforce of over 180 professionals.

Further information about the company at https://www.igenomix.co.in/

Media Contact:

Divya Bhasin

[email protected]

+91-9958065684

Marketing Manager- India and UAE

Igenomix



SOURCE Igenomix India Pvt LtdSONIPAT, India, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) participated in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia Universities Summit 2018 held in partnership with the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) from 5-7 February 2018 in Shenzhen, China. JGU was the only Indian university invited to speak at the summit. Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor, JGU was among the 25 Vice Chancellors from across the world and only one from India who spoke at the summit.

The summit witnessed participation of over 400 delegates from Asia's best universities, top researchers, higher education leaders, policymakers and industry chiefs.

This year's summit was organised around the theme 'Connecting Cities, Changing the World: Research Universities Building Asia'. The summit focused on themes including universities and cities - building alliances, defining regions; global research and education - trends, opportunities and challenges; university alliances - research output defining regional strength; national innovation - universities as catalysts and connectors; the power of partnership: what global research universities bring to the innovation economy; fourth industrial revolution and higher education, and bridging divides - research universities in the global knowledge economy.

JGU Vice Chancellor, Professor Raj Kumar, a Rhodes Scholar and an alumnus of the University of Oxford and Harvard Law School addressed a panel on 'Breaking Boundaries - Research Universities in the 21st Century' that deliberated on the critical role of university research in the growth of the knowledge economy, and the importance of internationalisation strategies in eliminating regional and global barriers to collaboration.

In his discourse, Prof. Raj Kumar said, "Universities have a larger role to play in the development of societies. They need to assume a leadership role that transcends national boundaries and are able to appreciate diversity and pluralism in all its forms and manifestations. Universities need to recognise that they have a special role in society."

He added, "While societies become more myopic, it's important for academics to continue to share perspectives to influence public opinion." He also said that universities should be the vanguards in the pursuit of truth, and should promote truth via evidence - this is a key role for science and the social sciences to play in the 21st century.

The summit is also an important platform to understand the key challenges that Indian universities face as they prepare to work towards becoming world class universities.

Contact:

Devadeep Konwar

[email protected]

+91-7027-850-344

Assistant Director

Communication and Public Affairs

O.P. Jindal Global University

SOURCE O.P. Jindal Global UniversityHSINCHU, Taiwan and WUHAN, China, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- JHL Biotech, Inc. (TPEx: 6540) announces that today, Monday, February 12, 2018, is the final day for trading of JHL shares on the Emerging Stock Market of the Taipei Exchange ("TPEx"). JHL's Board of Directors believes the voluntary delisting is in the best interests of the company and its shareholders because it enables JHL to pursue planned expansion activities and to explore various fundraising strategies, including potentially listing on an overseas exchange.

TPEx approved JHL's application for voluntarily delisting on February 2. Under TPEx Approval Letter No.: 10700029171, JHL shares will officially cease trading as of February 17, 2018. However, due to market closure from February 13 - 20 for the Lunar New Year Holiday, February 12 is effectively the final day for trading of JHL shares on TPEx. During the period from February 17, 2018 to April 7, 2018, JHL will purchase the shares eligible for sale at the price of NT$63 per share, pursuant to relevant laws.

Media Contact:

Jill Liu, [email protected], phone: +886 3-658-3899

Amber Chen, [email protected], phone: +886 3-658-3899

About JHL Biotech

JHL Biotech, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical startup founded by a group of industry veterans with deep experience in pharmaceutical development and operations. JHL is backed by premier financial firms, including Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Sequoia Capital, Biomark Capital, Milestone Capital, Fidelity, and the China Development Industrial Bank. JHL Biotech's mission is to provide the world with low-cost medicines of exceptional quality. JHL is focused on research and development of new protein-based therapies and biosimilars. JHL is developing proposed biosimilars to rituximab, dornase alfa, bevacizumab, and trastuzumab. JHL1101, JHL's proposed rituximab biosimilar, is undergoing clinical trials in the European Union. In addition to biosimilars, JHL also co-develops innovative new molecules and provides contract manufacturing services to select clients. JHL has two world-class facilities built in accordance with United States, European Union, and ICH cGMP regulations and standards. For more information, please visit www.jhlbiotech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Statements in this press release are not historical facts, including but not limited to the statements regarding JHL's future plans and its ability to complete the proposed Voluntary Delisting and maximize shareholder value, represent only the current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections of the Company and are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties. Important risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to be materially different from expectations include but are not limited to, capital markets conditions. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

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Related Links

http://www.jhlbiotech.com



SOURCE JHL Biotech, Inc.Frozen Assets Secure a US$520 Million Award Against Republic of Kazakhstan

NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to various media queries, Anatolie Stati, Gabriel Stati, Ascom Group S.A. and Terra Raf Trans Traiding Ltd (together, the "Stati Parties") confirm that they retain the full benefit of an attachment of certain property of the Republic of Kazakhstan ("Kazakhstan") worth approximately US$22.6 billion, including cash, bonds and equity shareholdings, amounting to approximately 40% of the National Fund of Kazakhstan.

The attachment was levied pursuant to an order of the Brussels Court of the First Instance and will remain in place in its entirety, at the very least, pending the outcome of the legal proceedings before the Brussels Court. In addition, and contrary to various public statements made by Kazakhstan, a recent ruling by Amsterdam District Court in a related action had no effect on the legal force or value of this attachment.

The said attachment was secured as part of the Stati Parties' long-running battle to enforce an arbitral award issued in December 2013 for violating the investor protection provisions of the Energy Charter Treaty. A tribunal constituted under the auspices of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce found that Kazakhstan violated its international obligation to treat the Stati Parties' investments fairly and equitably and awarded the Stati Parties more than US$500 million in damages, legal costs, and interest. The award has since been fully upheld by two tiers of the Swedish judiciary, including the Swedish Supreme Court.

The Brussels Court order represents one of a series of rulings made by various European courts since August 2017, as a result of which the Stati Parties have now obtained attachments of Kazakhstan's property worth approximately US$28 billion in the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden and Luxembourg, respectively.

The claims originally arose out of Kazakhstan's seizure of the Stati Parties' petroleum operations in 2010. The Stati Parties acquired two companies in 1999 that held idle licenses in the Borankol and Tolkyn fields in Kazakhstan. They invested more than US$1 billion over the ensuing decade to turn the companies into successful exploration and production businesses. By late 2008, the businesses had become profitable and had yielded considerable revenues for the Kazakh state. Just as the Stati Parties expected to start receiving dividends, more than half a dozen government agencies carried out a number of burdensome inspections and audits of the companies' businesses that resulted in false accusations of illegal conduct directed at the Stati Parties and their Kazakh companies, including criminal prosecutions of their general managers on false pretenses. Kazakhstan's actions challenged the Stati Parties' title to their investments, subjected them to hundreds of millions of dollars in unwarranted tax assessments and criminal penalties and ultimately led to the seizure and nationalization of their investments by Kazakh authorities in 2010.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Kimberly Macleod

(917) 587-0069

[email protected]

Chris Winans

(908) 309-3959

[email protected]

SOURCE Ascom Group S.A.LOS ANGELES, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

FN Media Group Presents USA News Group News Commentary

USA News Group - After sitting on the sidelines for quite some time, it appears that the big Canadian banks are willing to get into the cannabis business with BMO announcing participation.

It's positive new for the cannabis industry that is looking to expand in advance of legalization.

Companies heralding the news in the grower and producer space include Aphria (TSX: APH) (OTC: APHQF), Aurora Cannabis (TSX: ACB) (OTC: ACBFF), AmeriCann, Inc. (OTC: ACAN) and MYM Nutraceuticals Inc. (CSE: MYM) (OTC: MYMMF).

As Marijuana legalization sweeps across the globe, Canada is arguably at the head of the pack. Since 2001, medical marijuana has been legal in the country and a bill that would legalize recreational use of the drug is currently in advanced stages of enactment.

Leaders in the producer group that are moving quickly to deal with demand include Aurora Cannabis (TSX: ACB) (OTCQB: ACBFF), Aphria (TSX: APH) (OTCQB: APHQF), and AmeriCann, Inc (OTCQB: ACAN). These companies are already licensed legal growers of cannabis and experiencing massive demands from new markets.

Beyond the Licensed Producers (or LPs) in the grower/producer end of the business, companies are combining production with product development, sales and distribution. MYM Nutraceuticals Inc. (CSE: MYM) (OTCQB: MYMMF), is one of these, with three sizeable growing operations under advancement combined with multi-brand development right through product distribution.

BMO TAKES THE LEAD

So far, financial players have been relatively slow to react to the immense opportunities that exist in the burgeoning marijuana industry. Large banks have been typically adverse to providing capital to even the medical marijuana operations.

However, these institutions may be finally turning up to the party, with (BMO) the Bank of Montreal leading an equity financing round worth $175 million for Canada's largest licensed producer, Canopy Growth Corporation.

The deal, done in partnership with investment firm GMP Capital Inc., and others like it that are likely to happen in future will give marijuana product firms access to requisite capital for future growth.

The reluctance by financial partners to avail capital to cannabis producers has impeded growth momentum in an industry that is still struggling to gain a foothold in mainstream medical and soon, the recreational industries.

Canopy's deal with BMO and GMP was largely enabled by BMO's private brokers who have long supported Canopy.

Prior to this move, producers have been forced to seek funding from individual investors, venture capital funds, and credit unions among others.

GOOD NEWS FOR ALL PLAYERS

The news has yielded solid optimism among other licensed producers, with Aurora Cannabis Executive VP Cam Battley telling the media that large banks will move in for more equity financing starting this year.

Although there has been no verbal indication to the effect, there is a possibility that Aurora might be looking to secure a deal similar to what Canopy got.

According to Canopy CEO Bruce Linton, the level of stigma that marijuana firms have traditionally faced from banks is debilitating, to the level where simply opening a bank account was nearly impossible a few years ago. He attributed this reluctance to pressure from regulators in US, where attitudes towards marijuana are much more conservative than in Canada.

The fact that Canopy does not operate in the US was therefore a key factor in the company's success with the deal with BMO.

SMALLER MYM NUTRACEUTICALS FEELING THE RIPPLE EFFECT

The effects of positive financing by the "mainstream" is expected to quickly translates to juniors like MYM Nutraceuticals - a company moving up to the field of the major legal producers in Canada.

MYM Nutraceuticals is forwarding three planned facilities; a grow operation in Laval, Quebec which just completed phase one, a joint-venture for a 1 million square foot facility in Casino, Australia and its flagship facility; a 1.5 million square foot greenhouse facility in Weedon, Quebec.

Weedon will be a massive-one of the largest grow operations on the planet. It will house the potential to produce an estimated over 150,000 kg of cannabis per year. That would bring $750 million in revenue to MYM.

In continuity its global strategy, MYM also recently signed a MOU with NEWCANNA S.A.S., a leading Colombian medical cannabis company to form a new joint-venture company.

MYM Nutraceuticals is also diversifying by advancing formulation and production to support branding and distribution of its entities Joshua Tree, MyHemp Skin Therapy, and HempMed offerings.

These subsidiaries develop and sell a variety of cannabis based natural products including custom-made cannabis products with tailored CBD chemistries along with tinctures, concentrates and oils, edibles, vape products and pet care products.

MYM does not currently have any operations in the United States and says it will not engage in that country unless significant changes to the federal laws regarding cannabis are made.

BANKS ARE PLAYING THE SAFE BET

With the pending Canadian bill largely expected to succeed in both houses, requisite regulatory frameworks aimed at quality and competition control, as well as taxation systems will come into place.

The move is seen by the current Canadian government as a great way to undercut illegal pot growers and add a new stream tax revenue.

Companies that have operations in the US market may continue to struggle to get help from lending institutions, but with no so in the Great Green North. Even without involvement of big banks, it is all guns forward for the industry.

According to Carl Merton, CEO of Aphria, the company has been able to raise $500 million without getting any banking from any major Canadian bank.

Meanwhile, Canadian cannabis companies may have set the standard for sales growth and early profits. Juniors, including MYM Nutraceuticals are seeing strong support from private equity and looking to grow quickly to keep pace.

POTENTIAL COMPARABLES

Aurora Cannabis (TSX: ACB) (OTCQB: ACBFF)

Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Aurora Cannabis Enterprises Inc., Aurora Cannabis is a major LP, operating a 55,200 square foot, state-of-the-art production facility in Mountain View County, Alberta. Aurora made waves when it announced the construction of its 800,000 square foot "Aurora Sky" facility second 800,000 square foot production facility at the Edmonton International Airport. Aurora's also involved in Quebec, with its third 40,000 square foot production facility set to be completed in Pointe-Claire, Quebec, on Montreal's West Island. Aurora also holds a minority stake in leading extraction technology company Radient Technologies Inc., based in Edmonton, and a minority stake in Australian company Cann Group Limited, which was the first in Australia to conduct research on and cultivate medical cannabis. Aurora also owns German wholesale importer, exporter, and EU medical cannabis distributor Pedanios.

Aphria (TSX: APH) (OTCQB: APHQF)

Aphria Inc., boasts itself as one of Canada's lowest cost producers, that produces, supplies and sells medical cannabis. Located in the greenhouse capital of Canada, Leamington, Ontario, Aphria provides pharma-grade medical cannabis, and quality patient care. Aphria was the first public LP to report positive cash flow from operations, and the first to report positive earnings in consecutive quarters.

AmeriCann, Inc. (OTCQB: ACAN)

AmeriCann, Inc. develops, owns and supports advanced medical cannabis cultivation and processing facilities nationwide. The Company has a multi-market portfolio of over 1,000,000 square feet of sustainable cannabis production infrastructure in various stages of development. To support local businesses that seek to serve cannabis patients in their communities the company initiated the AmeriCann Preferred Partner Program. Through this program they provide an essential set of resources including advance cultivation facilities, access to a team of experts and in certain cases, capital for our partner's businesses. In addition, AmeriCann's team has been instrumental in winning cannabis licenses in competitive application processes throughout the country.

For a more in-depth look into MYM you can view the in-depth report at USA News Group: http://usanewsgroup.com/2018/02/05/meet-the-biggest-sector-of-2018-and-perhaps-your-lifetime/

Article Source:

USA News Group

http://usanewsgroup.com

info@usanewsgroup.com

Legal Disclaimer/Disclosure: This piece is an advertorial and has been paid for. This document is not and should not be construed as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe for any investment. No information in this Report should be construed as individualized investment advice. A licensed financial advisor should be consulted prior to making any investment decision. We make no guarantee, representation or warranty and accept no responsibility or liability as to its accuracy or completeness. Expressions of opinion are those of USA News Group only and are subject to change without notice. USA News Group assumes no warranty, liability or guarantee for the current relevance, correctness or completeness of any information provided within this Report and will not be held liable for the consequence of reliance upon any opinion or statement contained herein or any omission. Furthermore, we assume no liability for any direct or indirect loss or damage or, in particular, for lost profit, which you may incur as a result of the use and existence of the information, provided within this Report.

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This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may", "future", "plan" or "planned", "will" or "should", "expected," "anticipates", "draft", "eventually" or "projected". You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company's annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.



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SOURCE USA News GroupRIYADH, Saudi Arabia, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

In its ongoing plans to expand its reach in Asia and open new strategic and international routes, flynas, announces its new flights between the kingdom and Pakistan starting February 15th 2018.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161004/414891LOGO )

flynas will launch flights from Dammam, Riyadh and Jeddah to both Lahore and Islamabad and will commence on the 15th of February with flights from Riyadh to Lahore. Riyadh to Islamabad flights will follow on the 16th of February, along with flights from Dammam to Lahore. While flights from Jeddah to Lahore will launch on the 17th of February.

flynas flights between the Kingdom and Pakistan will utilize A320 fleet, and new B767 aircraft. Booking can be made through flynas' smartphone application, travel agents, and the flynas website.

These new flynas routes will serve business travelers from and to Saudi Arabia, as well as Hajj and Umrah visitors. It will also connect passengers to many different cities within the Kingdom with flynas' network, which includes 17 domestic destinations.

Commenting on the ongoing expansion, flynas CEO Bander Al-Mohanna said: "Ever since flynas was established over10 years ago, we have been continuously finding new opportunities and reaching new destinations, in order to deliver the best services and connectivity to our dear guests.

"We continue our journey with consumers, promising 2018 to be the year of expansion, to cater to their needs and aspirations to reach further domestic and international destinations."

About Flynas

flynas is a Saudi-national airlines, with a fleet of 31 airbus A320 that consists of two classes: business and economy, and operates more than 1000 weekly flights. flynas offers flights to 17 domestic destinations and 53 international destinations. Since its establishment in 2007, flynas has offered its services to more than 32 million passengers, whom have been successfully transported from hub-airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Abha. flynas is committed to its stellar on time performance and customer services, which led to it winning the best low-cost airline in the region at the World Travel Awards for three consecutive years (2015, 2016, 2017), as well as winning Skytrax for 2017.

For more information, please visit the website http://www.flynas.com

SOURCE flynasIn 2018, 135 honorees were recognized, spanning 23 countries and 57 industries. The twelfth class of honorees had record levels of involvement with their stakeholders and their communities around the world. Measuring and improving culture, leading authentically and committing to transparency, diversity and inclusion were all priorities for honorees.

"From our company's inception in 1927, Gallagher has always been committed to maintaining the highest standards of moral and ethical behavior," said J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO. "Operating with integrity is a critical component of the Gallagher culture and we are truly honored to again be recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies in 2018."

"We view the World's Most Ethical Companies award as a great recognition for our company. More importantly, we value Ethisphere's research into highly ethical operations and we use that information to drive our ongoing improvement efforts," added Thomas J. Tropp, Corporate Vice President  Ethics and Sustainability for Gallagher.

"While the discourse around the world changed profoundly in 2017, a stronger voice emerged. Global corporations operating with a common rule of law are now society's strongest force to improve the human condition. This year we saw companies increasingly finding their voice. The World's Most Ethical Companies in particular continued to show exemplary leadership," explained Ethisphere's CEO, Timothy Erblich. "I congratulate everyone at Gallagher for being recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies."

Ethics & Performance

Once again, the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies have proven that operating with integrity leads to greater financial performance. Research has found that, when indexed, listed World's Most Ethical Companies outperformed the U.S. Large Cap Index over five years by 10.72 percent and over three years by 4.88 percent. Ethisphere refers to this as the Ethics Premium.

Methodology & Scoring

The World's Most Ethical Companies assessment is based upon the Ethisphere Institute's Ethics Quotient (EQ) framework, which offers a quantitative way to assess a company's performance in an objective, consistent and standardized manner. The information collected provides a comprehensive sampling of definitive criteria of core competencies rather than all aspects of corporate governance, risk, sustainability, compliance and ethics.

Scores are generated in five key categories: ethics and compliance program (35 percent), corporate citizenship and responsibility (20 percent), culture of ethics (20 percent), governance (15 percent) and leadership, innovation and reputation (10 percent). All companies that participate in the assessment process receive their scores, providing them with valuable insights into how they stack up against leading organizations.

Honorees

The full list of the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies can be found at https://worldsmostethicalcompanies.com/honorees

Best practices and insights from the 2018 honorees will be released in a report and webcast in March and April of this year. Sign up to receive the report.

About Gallagher

Gallagher, a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm, is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. The company has operations in 33 countries and offers client service capabilities in more than 150 countries around the world through a network of correspondent brokers and consultants.

About the Ethisphere Institute

The Ethisphere Institute is the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices that fuel corporate character, marketplace trust and business success. Ethisphere has deep expertise in measuring and defining core ethics standards using data-driven insights that help companies enhance corporate character and measure and improve culture. Ethisphere honors superior achievement through its World's Most Ethical Companies recognition program and provides a community of industry experts with the Business Ethics Leadership Alliance (BELA). More information about Ethisphere can be found at: https://ethisphere.com.

Gallagher Media Contact

Linda J. Collins

630.285.4009

linda_collins@ajg.com

Ethisphere Media Contact

Clea Nabozny

480.397.2658

clea.nabozny@ethisphere.com

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SOURCE GallagherKorea exported W4.11 trillion, or US$3.77 billion, worth of computer, online and mobile games in 2017, up 9.3 percent from 2016, according to the Korea Creative Content Agency on Sunday (US$1=W1,090). They make up the largest proportion of Korea's $6.74 billion contents exports with 56 percent.

Games exports have steadily increased by around $200-300 million a year since they surpassed the W20 billion mark in 2011 with US$2.21 billion.

Last year's outlook was gloomy due to an unofficial Chinese boycott of Korean goods and services, but enthusiasm from other parts of the world, especially North America, made up for the shortfall.

Half of the sales of Bluehole's "PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds" came from the North American and European markets with W450 million. And Pearl Abyss raked in 80 percent of the sales of "Black Desert" from North America, Europe and Southeast Asia.

The character business was also brisk, ranking second after games thanks to the popular Kakao and Line messaging apps. The emoji industry exported US$640 billion last year, up 7.4 percent from 2016.

The knowledge and information industry was third with exports worth US$630 billion, music came fourth with US$500 million, broadcasting fifth with US$420 billion, and publishing sixth with US$270 billion.

LUSAKA, Zambia, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Roma Park, Lusaka's first mixed-use community, is welcoming major businesses MTN, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and Madison Capital to its industrial park, further cementing Roma Park's position as Zambia's premier business and residential address.

In Roma Park businesses, enjoy 0% import duty on equipment thanks to the development's partnership with the Zambian Development Agency (ZDA).

MTN's new head office will take up 4,500sqm, CCECC's head office for Zambia will be completed in April, and Madison Asset Management will lease 2,200sqm of A-grade warehouse and 3,100sqm of office space in the park.

Link Pharmacy and Unik Construction are also present within the development, occupying a distribution warehouse and commercial premises, respectively.

"We're seeing a dramatic uptake in demand for property, especially by investors from South Africa and China," said Shaun Davy, Managing Director at CPD Properties, the developer of Roma Park, a partnership with Rendeavour, Africa's largest urban land developer. "Foreign investors and local businesses expanding in Zambia have been signing long-term commitments for commercial space in Roma Park this year, and we are delighted to lead the comeback of market confidence."

The centrally located Roma Park has been a starting point for many investors into Zambia, either through its residential or commercial properties.

Roma Park's commercial property prices have increased 150% between 2011 and 2017. The project's residential property prices have seen a stellar 280% growth over the same period with 98% now sold out.

The development's 10km of tarmac roads, fibre optic connectivity and access to water and electricity has solidified Roma Park as the premier residential and business address in Zambia.

"The success of Roma Park is replicated across all our projects in Sub-Saharan Africa: secure land title, high-quality master planning and world-class infrastructure," said Tim Beighton from Rendeavour.

About Roma Park (http://www.romapark.co.zm)

Roma Park consists of 368 residential and 42 commercial plots in the heart of Lusaka's emerging business district. Most of its residential plots have been sold.

The residential section was nominated for the Best Housing Award at the Africa Property Investment Summit in 2017.

Its commercial offering is demarcated for light industrial, retail and commercial business use. Roma Park is situated on 120 hectares of prime, serviced land.

Located in the heart of Lusaka along Zambezi Road in Roma, it is 3km from Manda Hill Shopping Centre and Mass Media, 6km from Lusaka town centre and 20km from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.

About Rendeavour (http://www.rendeavour.com)

Rendeavour is Africa's largest urban land developer with over 12,000 hectares of visionary projects in the growth trajectories of large cities in Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia and Democratic Republic of Congo. We aim to help create the infrastructure - the living and working spaces, communities, schools and hospitals - that will help sustain and accelerate Africa's economic growth, meet the aspirations of Africa's burgeoning middle classes, and serve as a catalyst for further urban development.

Media Contact:

Tim Beighton

tbeighton@rendeavour.com

+234-807-099-2935



SOURCE Roma ParkEach year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to a company that has developed a pioneering technology that enhances current products as well as enables the development of new products and applications. The award recognizes the high market acceptance potential of the recipient's technology.

"Saama Technologies has filled a major gap in RWE solutions for clinical trials applications by overcoming various implementation challenges (such as data interoperability) across structured and unstructured data systems through its outcome-oriented analytics solutions and innovative analytics tools," said Piyush Bansal, Senior Industry Analyst. "Such application diversity in clinical trial optimization processes is unique and differentiates Saama from competitors."

Saama's analytics platform is equipped with pre-built components, connectors, key performance indicators (KPIs), dashboards, and life science industry-specific data models that allow clients to speed up the data analytics platform configuration and installation for new projects. In addition, the platform provides flexibility by allowing users to modify any algorithm stored in its library to meet their specific needs. Saama's platform is supported by machine learning algebraic and non-algebraic models to enable automated data management and visualization. Furthermore, this platform supports multiple RWE-driven applications across the pharmaceutical value chain, delivered through a suite of software-as-a-service (SaaS)-based applications called Life Science Analytics Cloud.

The following are key platform application features:

Supports clinical trials, including patient recruitment, site selection, investigator recruitment, and feasibility assessment, using real-world data (RWD) and RWE

Provides safety signal searching and guided analytics

Cloud-based scalable solutions, which can be applied for a large variety of datasets

Saama makes its platform easy to use by providing a guided analytics interface for easy and seamless access at the client end, without needing an analytics tools expert. Clients have achieved 10% efficiency in site identification timelines, while a 15% reduction in non-enrolling site cost has been observed using Saama's analytics solutions. Furthermore, the platform's flexibility, in terms of its algorithms, speeds up time-to-market by almost five times, compared to standard platforms.

"Frost & Sullivan has identified Saama as an exceptional strategic partner for implementing RWE solutions, especially to support clinical trial optimization processes. A higher than average client retention rate and large client base indicates a high client satisfaction, which the company has achieved through its exceptional service and innovative product development approach," said Piyush Bansal, Senior Industry Analyst. "Saama Technologies has earned Frost & Sullivan's global Enabling Technology Leadership Award for both its innovative analytics platforms and operational excellence."

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Saama

Saama Technologies is the advanced data and analytics company delivering actionable business insights for life sciences and the Global 2000. We are singularly focused on driving fast, flexible, impactful business outcomes for our clients through data and analytics. Our unique "hybrid" approach integrates focused solutions and expertise across the life sciences domain, business consulting, data science, automated data management, and big data technologies. We integrate manual and disconnected initiatives into a well-aligned roadmap facilitating the client's journey from strategy through solution implementation.

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, collaborates with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today's market participants. For more than 50 years, Frost & Sullivan has been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector, and the investment community. Contact us: Start the discussion

Contact:

Claudia Toscano

P: 210.477.8417

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SOURCE Frost & SullivanNorth Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent an invitation via his sister Yo-jong to Pyongyang to President Moon Jae-in on Saturday, but sanctions against North Korea will only intensify after the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang end. The North is showing no intention of scrapping its nuclear weapons and missile programs, and joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises will resume in full force once the Olympics are over. Kim Jong-un is merely trying to use the South Korean government as a shield to protect him against intensifying international pressure, and he thinks the most effective way to do that would be to hold an inter-Korean summit. It was just a matter of time before the North Korean leader asked Moon to visit.

Kim is betting on past patterns. But when the first inter-Korean summit happened in June 2000, North Korea had frozen its nuclear power plant under the Geneva Accords, while the second summit in October 2007 took place after Seoul and Pyongyang signed an agreement on nuclear disarmament. Now the situation is completely different. The North has reneged on each of its previous pledges, and Kim Jong-un has repeatedly tested nuclear weapons and fired long-range missiles and now boasts that he is capable of attacking the mainland U.S.

Moon can only visit North Korea on one condition -- that Kim agrees once and for all to give up his nuclear weapons. Only then can inter-Korean dialogue and denuclearization progress in tandem. If that happened, everyone would be delighted.

But everybody knows North Korea has no intention of scrapping its nuclear weapons right now. The very day Moon received the invitation, the North vowed to "quantitatively and qualitatively bolster" its nuclear capabilities. This is clearly aimed at driving a wedge between Seoul and Washington. The U.S. is wise to the ruse. Speaking about the possibility of meeting with North Korean officials, U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said that he would "wait and see" but use any opportunity to pressure Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear ambitions. "The pressure will continue on them, economically and diplomatically, until thats accomplished," he said. It was a warning that North Korea need not try to buy time and weaken sanctions by pretending to extend an olive branch. But Pence was also warning Seoul not to be fooled by refusing to attend a banquet at the Winter Olympics where he could have met with the high-level North Korean delegation.

This may be one reason that Moon responded in such a lukewarm fashion to the invite, telling Kim Yo-jong only, "Let's create the conditions to make it possible." A Cheong Wa Dae official said, "The conditions refer to dialogue between Pyongyang and Washington." No peace gesture offered by the North would be genuine unless it includes a pledge to scrap its nuclear weapons.

But the invitation must be very tempting, and there is a chance that the government may yet grow impatient and end up taking the bait. Another serious concern is the government underestimates of North Korean threat. Moon apparently did not mention the nuclear issue once during his two-hour meeting with the North Korean delegation, fearful of agitating his guests. But that is no way to take control of inter-Korean affairs.

Still, things seem to be changing. Previous inter-Korean summits were held because South Korean presidents practically begged for them. But this time things were different, and Kim Jong-un sent his own sister to deliver his invitation. This shows how desperate North Korea is. Experts say North Korea may see a drop in exports of up to 90 percent this year due to sanctions, which are unprecedented in their severity. The sanctions are the only reason North Korea decided to participate in the Winter Olympics, which means they hold the key to resolving the nuclear impasse. North Korea is trying all it can to weaken the impact of the sanctions. Moon must be sure never to fall into the trap.

MALE, Feb. 7, 2018 - Tourists walk out of the airport in Male, Maldives, Feb. 7, 2018. Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen on Monday evening declared a state of emergency amid political crisis in the ... Image Source: IANS

: Tourists walk out of the airport in Male, Maldives, Feb. 7, 2018. Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen on Monday evening declared a state of emergency amid political ... Image Source: IANS

Male, Feb 8 : Amid a political turmoil, Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen has said he was sending envoys to three "friendly nations" -- China, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. India is not on the list.

A statement from the President's office said the three envoys would visit "friendly nations ... and provide updates on the current situation".

The envoys have already reached China and Pakistan, it said.

The announcement came after China, with apparent reference to India, on Wednesday cautioned against outside interference in the Maldivian affairs, saying it would "complicate" the situation.

New Delhi received multiple appeals from the country's exiled former President Mohamed Nasheed in the last few days to intervene to resolve the deepening political crisis.

He said on Wednesday that his countrymen viewed New Delhi's role "positively" during the 1988 crisis when India were "not occupiers but liberators". Indian troops then sailed into the Maldives and saved then President Maumoon Gayoom from being toppled.

India has now said it was "disturbed" by the situation in the Maldives.Tokyo, Feb 9 : A public elementary school in Tokyo is facing criticism over its plan to adopt uniforms designed by Italian luxury fashion house Giorgio Armani.

According to local media reports, the Taimei Elementary School, located in the upscale Ginza district, wants to introduce uniforms that cost more than 80,000 yen ($730) each, the BBC reported on Saturday.

Parents complained that it was unaffordable. The plan was even brought up in Parliament on Thursday.

The school sent a letter to parents last November in which the principal explained that the school was changing its uniform to better reflect its status as a "landmark" in Ginza, according to the Huffington Post Japan.

The move triggered five cases of complaints from parents.

"I was surprised and wondered why such luxury uniforms have been picked for a public elementary school," a woman told the Huffington Post.

Although school uniforms are not strictly compulsory in public schools in Japan, most students choose to wear them.

The move also received widespread criticism online, the BBC reported.

"I heard that school uniforms were originally invented so kids from different income families wouldn't face discrimination," a Twitter user posted.

"Children are not aware of famous brands... Are you saying a child wearing Armani will be better developed than a child who doesn't wear it?" another user asked.San Francisco, Feb 10 : Getty Images and Google have announced a partnership according to which, the tech giant can now display US-based stock photo agency's content within its various products and services.

"This (multi-year global licensing) agreement between Getty Images and Google sets the stage for a very productive, collaborative relationship between our companies," Dawn Airey, CEO, Getty Images, said in a statement.

"We will licence our market leading content to Google, working closely with them to improve attribution of our contributors' work and thereby growing the ecosystem," he added.

Airey said that with this achievement, both the companies could move forward "with a strong partner to deliver innovative ways to access creative and editorial content online."

Meanwhile, Cathy Edwards, who is an Engineering Director at Google, said, "We're excited to have signed this licence agreement with Getty Images, and we will be using their images across many of our products and services, starting immediately."

According to tech website Android Police, the agreement requires that Google make some changes to Image Search, including making copyright disclaimers more prominent and removing direct links to certain images.

The partnership comes in the sequence of a law complaint filed by Getty against Google back in April 2016, accusing Google of anti-competitive practices by promoting its own products and displaying high resolution images in Search, thereby reducing the need for users to visit the original source website, the report added.Ramallah, Feb 10 : In keeping with India's role as a major development aid partner for Palestine, the two sides on Saturday signed six memorandums of understanding (MoUs), including in the areas of health and education, following a bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas here.

An MoU was signed for setting up of an India-Palestine super-specialty hospital at Beit Sahour in Bethelhem governorate at a cost of $30 million.

A second MoU was signed for construction of the India-Palestine centre for empowering women called "Turathi" at a cost of $5 million.

Another MoU was signed for setting up of a new National Printing Press at Ramallah at a cost of $5 million.

Two MoUs worth $1.1 million and $1 million envisage construction of two schools at Tamoon village in Tubas governorate and Muthalth Al Shuhada village respectively.

A sixth MoU was signed for the construction of an additional floor at Jawahar Lal Nehru School for Boys at Abu Dees.

Prime Minister Modi arrived earlier in the day on a three-hour visit, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister to Palestine.

Palestine is the first leg of Modi's three-nation tour of West Asia and the Gulf that will also see him going to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman.New Delhi, Feb 11 : Actor Diljit Dosanjh says he is trying to dub his upcoming Punjabi film "Rangroot" in Hindi and English for a wider reach.

"'Rangroot' is on first world war. It is a Punjabi film. We are trying to dub it in both Hindi and English. The trailer response was very good... I wanted to do a film like this since the past three-four years. But the budget was too high. A film is not made in such a budget according to Punjabi films," Diljit told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

The actor, 34, says a big budget is not considered "safe".

"It is not that safe but thankful to our producers that they made a film for me. If this goes well, then we would make more such films," he added.

Diljit will next be seen in "Welcome To New York", a comedy film, directed by Chakri Toleti.

The film also stars Sonakshi Sinha, Karan Johar, Riteish Deshmukh, Lara Dutta and Boman Irani.Washington, Feb 12 : The White House said on Sunday that a senior advisor of US President Donald Trump visited Turkey on February 10 and 11 amid escalating tensions of the two NATO allies over Turkey's attack in Afrin, Syria.

Citing a White House statement, Xinhua reported that H.R. McMaster, Trump's National Security Advisor, met with Ibrahim Kalin, Deputy Secretary General and Spokesperson of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in his visit to Istanbul.

During their meeting, Kalin and McMaster affirmed the bilateral strategic partnership and discussed the "priorities and concerns" and common strategic challenges of both countries, said the White House.

It added that they addressed issues affecting bilateral relations in detail and explored ways to expand the joint fight against all forms of terrorism.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will also visit Turkey next week in his Middle East trip and US Secretary of Defense James Mattis is also due to meet his Turkish counterpart Nurettin Canikli in Brussels.

Relations between Washington and Ankara have been highly strained, in part due to US support for the the People's Protection Units (YPG) in Syria.

Turkey sees the YPG as Syrian offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which is designated as a terrorist group by Turkey, the US and the EU.New York, Feb 12 : New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman has filed a lawsuit against disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, his younger brother Robert and their firm, the Weinstein Company, after a four-month investigation into inappropriate sexual conduct.

The lawsuit, filed electronically in the State Supreme Court in Manhattan on Sunday, appeared timed to delay a fire sale of the company, which was also expected to be finalised on Sunday, reports The New York Times.

"Any sale of the Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched," Schneiderman said in a statement.

The Weinstein Company has been trying to avoid bankruptcy since last October, when reports by The New York Times and The New Yorker revealed decades of sexual harassment allegations against Harvey Weinstein.

The company was nearing a deal to sell itself to an investor group for about $275 million, plus the assumption of $225 million in debt, informed officials told The New York Times.

The investor group, led by Maria Contreras-Sweet, who is best known for running the Small Business Administration under former President Barack Obama, has also publicly said it would create a multimillion-dollar settlement fund (in addition to insurance that is already in place) for women who have accused Harvey Weinstein of abuse.

Under the deal, the officials said, Robert Weinstein, who has run the studio's commercially oriented Dimension Films label, would leave the studio.

Robert had frantically tried to keep control of the company following his brother's firing in October.

The brothers, who jointly own about 42 per cent of the Weinstein Company, would receive no cash from the proposed sale, according to the officials.

Other equity holders, including the advertising giant WPP Group, may also be wiped out.

Meanwhile, the lawsuit, which refers to Harvey Weinstein by his initials, has said that the company's management and board of directors "were repeatedly presented with credible evidence of HW's sexual harassment" of company employees and interns "and his use of corporate employees and resources to facilitate sexual activity with third parties", reports The New York Times.

It added that, by guaranteeing the silence of victims and other employees through nondisclosure agreements, the company enabled Harvey Weinstein's "unlawful conduct to continue far beyond the date when, through reasonable diligence, it should have been stopped".

The lawsuit could result in fines against the company and the Weinstein brothers, and it calls for the defendants to pay restitution and damages to the victims.The Jail DGP made such a request to the government on the basis of the report sent by DGP (Law and Order) Anil Kant.Mumbai, Feb 12 : Actress Shraddha Kapoor has started shooting for her next film "Batti Gul Meter Chalu". She is excited to start the new journey.

"Day 1 on 'Batti Gul Meter Chalu' excited to start this new journey! See you on set Shahid Kapoor! Wish me luck guys!" Shraddha tweeted on Monday morning.

Shahid has already started shooting for the film.

To be shot in Uttarakhand, the film is a social comedy-drama, also features actress Yami Gautam, who will be seen playing the role of a lawyer.

The movie is directed by Shree Narayan Singh, who helmed the Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar starrer "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha".Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 12 : Christian leaders from Kerala are all set to campaign in Meghalaya which goes to polls on February 27 to elect a 60-member state Assembly.

The leaders from Kerala who have been asked to begin campaigning in the Christian-majority northeastern state include former two-time Congress Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, senior legislator K.C. Joseph, Lok Sabha member Anto Antony and MLA Dominic Presentation.

Chandy will begin his campaign from Monday after he was directed by the Congress party high command to head for Meghalaya.

At present, the Meghalaya Assembly has 29 Congress legislators Minister Of State for Tourism, K.J.Alphons is leading the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) campaign in the poll-bound state.

Meanwhile, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has asked its Kerala unit to send former state minister Thomas Chandy and party leader Mani C.Kappen for campaigning.New Delhi, Feb 12 : He transformed a theory into a viable political programme, steered it to power through revolution, and laid the foundation of a mighty ideological state which played a key role throughout the 20th century. But does Lenin have any relevance now after the Soviet Union's fall and communism's "discrediting"? Definitely yes, and "he would flourish now".

Not only was Lenin the originator, or at least a pioneer, of the "post-truth politics" we see today -- where the likes of Donald Trump's former chief strategist Steve Bannon consider him an influence, he would have adapted well to contemporary forms of political outreach like Twitter, says British journalist and author Victor Sebestyen.

"Lenin made a huge contribution to the end of imperialism and colonialism. He has has had more impact in Asia, where his influence persists -- in China, in North Korea -- than in Europe. But his legacy also lives on a real way...

"He would be very recognisable in politics now... in the ideologically-driven age of today. I see the present age as a revolutionary age where masses won't accept present traditions and leaders... Lenin would have excelled in it," Sebestyen, who was in India recently for a literature festival, told IANS in an interview.

Asked what would make Lenin suited for contemporary political millieu, the author, whose latest work is an exhaustive biography of Lenin -- the first in English in over two decades -- listed several key traits.

"He promised the people everything, lied without shame, and offered simple solutions to complex problems... He identified scapegoats and justified himself by political victory... he would have shone on Twitter," he said.

Lenin was the "godfather of post-trust politics", with adherents like Bannon, who identified himself as a Leninist with the same aim of destroying the state, he added.

On what inspired him to write "Lenin the Dictator: An Intimate Portrait", Sebestyen said he had a fascination with the great Russian revolutionary even before he thought of writing the book. "I wanted to focus on Lenin the man, rather than the idea or propaganda," he said, adding most Lenin biographies are one-sided, being either eulogistic or condemnatory.

Sebastyen said he was impressed with what he found about Lenin "who was entirely different from his reputation", as he was not always being icy or logical but quite emotional, prone to flying into a rage, and quite ruthless. He was ideological only to a point, after which he was a pragmatic man of action.

And in the book, there are many things about Lenin that we don't know -- we know he hated the Tsarist system following this elder brother's execution, but why did he hate liberals? We also learn how he loved nature, especially adoring the mountains, but also hunting.

Another major fact that comes out is that all of Lenin's important relations were with women -- his mother, his sisters, his wife Nadezhda, his mother-in-law and, especially, Bolshevik Inessa Armand, with whom he had a love affair his wife never minded but was censored by his Soviet successors.

"Lenin wasn't a feminist in the modern sense, but he took women seriously," said Sebastyen, contending he always saw men as potential rivals or fell out with them over politics, thus ending up with no close male friends.

On the system of repression that came to mark the Soviet Union, he says Lenin does bear responsibility for ordering terror -- and creating a system which was perfected by his successor Stalin -- but wasn't personally cruel like him, or Hitler or Mao. "He saw the deaths as theoretical and never sought or relished in details."

Sebastyen, whose family fled Hungary when he was an infant in the wake of the 1956 revolt, about which he has written in "Twelve Days: The Story of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution" (2006), and covered communism's fall in East Europe in "Revolution 1989: The Fall of the Soviet Empire" (2009), says the present situation there is "profoundly depressing and disturbing".

"The regimes in Poland and Hungary -- which initiated the change in 1989 -- are deeply authoritarian with nasty roots... they are not fascist but seem to be on their way. Nationalism, racism are so appealing for lazy demagogues and people fall for it... in Lenin's phrase, it is 'false consciousness'," he said.

(Vikas Datta can be contacted at vikas.d@ians.in )Jammu, Feb 12 : Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is visiting Jammu on Monday even as the anti-terror operation inside the Sunjuwan army camp here is still going on, army said.

"The Defence Minister will visit the injured soldiers and civilians at the Satwari army hospital here. She will also meet the families of martyred soldiers and injured persons.

Sitharaman will be briefed on the security situation in the wake of the Sunjuwan terror attack, informed sources said.

Army chief, General Bipin Rawat, who arrived here on Sunday flew back to New Delhi on Monday.

The anti-terror operation inside the Sunjuwan army camp has been continuing for the last three days as it has not been officially called off so far.

Three terrorists were killed by the army during the operation that has now been on for over 50 hours.

Five soldiers and a civilian were killed by terrorists, who entered the army camp around 4.45 a.m. on Saturday.

Ten people, including six women and children were injured in the attack by the Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) terrorists, who were wearing army fatigues.

Initial reports had said four JeM terrorists had entered the two buildings of the Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) quarters after hurling grenades and using heavy volume of automatic gunfire on Saturday.

"The operation against terrorists is still going on. It will only be called off after the area is completely sanitised," the defence sources said.London, Feb 12 : The London City Airport has been closed after a Second World War-era bomb was found nearby in the Thames River, the authorities announced on Monday.

The airport will be shut all Monday and all flights cancelled, affecting up to 16,000 passengers, the BBC quoted an airport spokeswoman as saying.

The bomb was discovered at on Sunday morning at the George V Dock during pre-planned work at the airport in east London, the Met Police said.

The airport was shut at 10 p.m., and the Met said that it was working with the Royal Navy to remove the device.

Passengers have been asked not to travel to the airport as the terminal is closed and to contact their airline, the BBC reported.

Airport CEO Robert Sinclair apologised and said: "I recognise this is causing inconvenience for our passengers, and in particular some of our local residents.

"The airport is cooperating fully with the Met Police and Royal Navy and working hard to safely remove the device and resolve the situation as quickly as possible."

Airlines using London City Airport include British Airways, Flybe, CityJet, KLM and Lufthansa, with flights to domestic and European city destinations.

The Met Police said a 214-metre exclusion zone had been set up and properties inside were evacuated.Chennai, Feb 12 : Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal on Monday unveiled the portrait of late former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in the Assembly while major opposition parties boycotted the function saying such an honour should not be given to a convicted person.

The portrait was unveiled in the presence of Chief Minister K. Palaniswami, Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam and other state ministers.

Addressing the gathering, Palaniswami said Jayalalithaa's fame would continue to exist as long as the Earth continues to exist.

He said Jayalalithaa had restored the state's rights in the Cauvery river water issue-in the dispute with Karnataka on sharing the river water.

Palaniswami said steps are being taken to build a memorial for Jayalalithaa.

Meanwhile, opposition parties led by DMK, Congress, IUML boycotted the function stating that portraits of persons convicted in a corruption case should not be there in the Assembly Hall.

DMK leader M.K. Stalin said Jayalalithaa was the "number one" accused in the disproportionate assets case, and was convicted in the case.

A trial court in Bengaluru had held Jayalalithaa, her close aide V.K. Sasikala and two others as guilty and convicted them. While the Karnataka High Court acquitted all of them, the apex court upheld the trial court's judgement.

Since Jayalalithaa had died before apex court's order, she was not jailed while three others are serving their sentence in a jail in Karnataka.

Stalin said Jayalalithaa's portrait demeans the portraits of other leaders in the Assembly -- portraits of former Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu, national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar and others.

Other parties like DMDK, PMK also opposed the move to unveil Jayalalithaa's portrait while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was in support of the government's action.New Delhi, Feb 12 : The ongoing political turmoil in Maldives would reduce tourist arrivals, a key driver of the economy and a prolonged crisis would dent investment inflows, an analysis by Moody's said here on Monday.

"If tourists are deterred from travelling to Maldives for a prolonged period, the crisis will reduce growth and prompt us to revise down our current forecasts of 4.5 per cent real GDP growth in 2018. Tourism accounts for one-third of economic output," the report said. It also said the crisis would impede the running of fiscal policy, exacerbating both fiscal and external pressures.

"During a state of emergency in 2015, growth slowed to 2.8 per cent from 6 per cent the previous year, amid a slowdown in tourist arrivals growth to 2.4 per cent from 7.1 per cent the previous year. Previous political disruptions also have negatively affected GDP growth," the report further informed.

Last Monday, the government of Maldives declared a 15-day state of emergency, preventing release of nine imprisoned opposition figures as ordered by the Supreme Court. Later, the court's order was reversed by the remaining judges of the apex court after the chief justice and one other judge was arrested.

"This development is credit negative for the sovereign because it undermines the rule of law by overriding, for apparent political considerations, a decision by the judiciary," the report said.

The report said an immediate effect of political developments would be on tourist arrivals.

"Some countries, notably India, China, Singapore and the UK, already have issued travel advisories recommending avoidance of all but essential travel to Maldives. The US since January has had Maldives on a Level 2 travel advisory, which recommends that tourists exercise caution owing to terrorism risks," it said.

In 2017, tourist arrivals increased 8 per cent. More than 44 per cent of total tourist arrivals in 2017 were from Asia, with Chinese tourists accounting for 22 per cent of the total.

The Supreme Court ruling had revoked terrorism charges against opposition members, including exiled former president Mohammed Nasheed, and called for their release.

"This is the latest in a series of attempts to prevent an unseating of the current president, Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom. Similar events could become increasingly common with the coming presidential elections in September," the report said.

Moody's said apart from impeding budgetary operations and hindering the government's ability to meet its fiscal targets, a political crisis, especially if accompanied by human rights violations, risks disrupting funding from multilateral and bilateral lenders.

"Tighter financing of government debt would be particularly credit negative, given Maldives' sizable debt burden, which we estimate was 62.8 per cent of GDP in 2017. According to 2016 data, multilateral institutions held 9.8 per cent of public-sector debt, while bilateral lenders held 22.3 per cent. Smooth funding disbursement from these lenders is crucial for the financing of the government's large-scale infrastructure development program," the report said.

The report said escalating political tensions also will hinder Maldives' attractiveness as an investment destination.

"Net foreign direct investment, which , in 2017 totaled $484.5 million, or 10.4 per cent of GDP, plays an important role in financing Maldives' large current account deficit of 21.7 per cent of GDP in 2017. A substantial portion of this financing is likely directed toward the tourism industry and an unstable security environment risks reducing future inflows," it said.Moscow, Feb 12 : Russian search teams continue to recover bodies and fragments of the AN-148 passenger plane which crashed with 71 people on board on the outskirts of the Russian capital, leaving no survivors.

"The work is being carried out in an uninterrupted manner. We expect that the main phase of the search will last seven days," Minister of Emergency Situations Vladimir Puchkov was quoted as saying by Efe news.

He explained that the search tasks were being hindered by aircraft fragments scattered across different areas, snow and difficult terrain.

Russian authorities didn't forward any hypothesis on the possible causes behind the crash but said that all lines of investigation were open.

The Russian media released images captured by a surveillance camera of the moment when the Saratov Airlines plane crashed on the ground on Sunday causing a huge explosion.

Flight 6w 703 flying from Moscow to Orsk in the south of the Urals had taken off minutes earlier from Domodedovo airport.

Onboard were six crew members and 65 passengers including three children.

Initially, authorities reported that all passengers were Russian citizens, but later said that there were two foreign nationals -- a Swiss and an Azerbaijani.

Sunday's air crash is the worst plane crash to occur in Russia since December 25, 2016 when a Tu-154 crashed into the Black Sea, killing its 96 occupants.Allahabad, Feb 12 : Angered over the killing of a Dalit student of Allahabad University, students on Monday went on a rampage, setting fire to a bus.

The angry students also laid siege to the house of District Magistrate Suhas L.Y., police said.

Brutally assaulted by four men, Dalit student Dilip Saroj died on Sunday night after slipping into a coma. He was attacked outside a restaurant in Colonelganj on Friday night.

A waiter at the restaurant, Munna Singh Chauhan, has been arrested and two policemen have been suspended.

Angry varsity students aligned to the Samajwadi Yuvjan Sabha (SYS) and the All India Students Association (AISA) took out a protest march on Monday and raised anti-government and anti-police slogans.

Demanding immediate arrest of the culprits, the students also sought adequate compensation for the deceased student's family.

Saroj was a LLB 2nd year student and hailed from Pratapgarh. A video of the killing has gone viral, leaving the police red-faced.

No one in the Uttar Pradesh government has reacted to the gruesome killing which incensed the opposition parties.

Efforts to speak to Health Minister Siddhartha Nath Singh, a legislator from Allahabad and spokesman for the Uttar Pradesh government, went in vain as he did not take calls.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has slammed Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the killing of the Dalit student.

In a statement, she said the atmosphere in the country and the state had become "vicious and violent" due to the politics pursued by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Mumbai, Feb 12 : Telecom major Idea Cellular on Monday raised Rs 3,250 crore through allotment of 32.66 crore equity shares to the Aditya Birla Group entities.

According to a statement from Idea Cellular, equity shares were allotted at an issue price of Rs 99.50 per share including premium of Rs 89.50 per share aggregating to Rs 3,250 crore.

The company said that as a result of "this preferential allotment", the aggregate shareholding of the promoter group (Aditya Birla Group) in Idea has increased from 42.4 per cent to 47.2 per cent.

"This equity infusion reiterates the Group's commitment towards the telecom business and confidence in its growth prospects," Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group, was quoted as saying in the statement.

"Idea is in the process of bringing a world class 4G network to villages, towns and cities across India that will contribute to the transition of the Indian populace towards a digital lifestyle.

"With the planned fund raise combined with the recently announced sale of Idea's towers and potential monetisation of the Indus stake, the company will be better capitalised to participate in the growth opportunities offered by the sector."

As per the statement, the current equity infusion along with the proposed further capital raise of up to Rs 3,500 Crore, will reduce Idea's net-debt and as a result Vodafone's net-debt contribution to the merged entity will also be reduced by an equivalent amount.

"Additionally, the recently announced sale of Idea's and Vodafone India's standalone towers to American Tower Corp for an aggregate enterprise value of Rs 7,850 crore and the potential monetisation of Idea's 11.15 per cent stake in Indus Towers, will further augment the long term capital resources of the company," the statement said.

"These proceeds will significantly strengthen the balance sheet of the merged entity (Idea and Vodafone India) creating a resilient entity for the future."Patna, Feb 12 : JD-U president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said that the decision of his party not to contest by-elections to one Lok Sabha and two Assembly seats was taken by the state unit of the party and not him.

"It was a decision of the state unit of the JD-U, not mine," Nitish Kumar told media here in a reply to speculation over the decision of the ruling JD-U not to field candidates in any of the three seats where bypolls will take place in March.

Nitish Kumar said he has given his consent to the party state unit's decision not to contest the bypolls to Araria Lok Sabha and the Jahanabad and Bhabhua Assembly seats.

After the JD-U decided not to contest the bypolls, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav taunted the Chief Minister saying: "It shows Nitish Kumar's abject surrender before the BJP which will not allow him to call the shots. What an irony. The ruling party is running away from a contest."

Two days ago JD-U state president Vashisht Narain Singh announced that the party will not field any candidate for any of the three seats in the bypolls.

The bypoll in Araria Lok Sabha seat was necessitated by the death of RJD MP Mohammad Taslimuddin. The BJP had finished second in the seat in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, closely followed by the JD-U, which had then contested the Parliamentary polls separately.

The Jahanabad assembly seat has fallen vacant after the death of RJD Legislator Mundrika Yadav. The JD-U had fought the 2015 Assembly polls in alliance with the RJD and the Congress.

The bypolls in Bhabhua in Kaimur district has been necessitated following the death of the BJP legislator.Shillong, Feb 12 : Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy on Monday voiced confidence that his party will form the next government in Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura on its own.

Tripura will go to the polls on February 18, followed by Nagaland and Meghalaya on February 27. The counting of votes is slated on March 3.

"The BJP has marched ahead in forming government from nine states in 2009 to 19 states now on its own and with the coalition partners. We are going to add three more, first from Meghalaya, Tripura, and Nagaland, and the fourth is Karnataka," Rudy told journalists here.

The former Union Minister, who was in Shillong drumming up support for party candidates contesting from the urban assembly constituencies of East Shillong, South Shillong, North Shillong and Pynthorumkhrah, said: "In Meghalaya, I can read the pulse of change and it looks like people have made up their minds for a change as we have witnessed across the country."

"The Congress has no vision, it has lost foothold across the country and last few states are crumbling and one of them is Meghalaya," he said adding that the BJP has a clear manifesto - development.

"In our manifesto, we will include rural development which is our topmost priority besides employment, industrialisation, youth empowerment, tourism and employment," Ruddy added.

To a query on a possibility of a fractured mandate in Meghalaya, he said: "We do not believe in fractured mandate as we will have a majority. Do not get surprise by my confidence. I have been handling elections for last 30 years and we are confident of forming the BJP government in Meghalaya."

On Act East Policy, Rudy said major focus is being laid on Meghalaya in particular in view of the evolved and progressive society and presence of conscious and vibrant youth.

"But sadly, the feedback that we have been getting in Delhi is dismal - the governments in the state are not performing and the only positive symptoms of development were the work of Union government which are the good highways.

"The state has missed out so much and while other states are already talking about bullet trains and metro, unfortunately Meghalaya is still talking about rural development," he said, Aattacking the Congress-led Meghalaya United Alliance government.New Delhi, Feb 12 : The Supreme Court on Monday slammed the CBI's SIT for not properly probing alleged extra-judicial killings by the Army, Assam Rifles and police in Manipur and asked why FIRs were lodged against the victims and not against officers.

A division bench of Justices M.B. Lokur and Justice U.U. Lalit said it was "not satisfied" with the progress made by the SIT of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the investigation.

"I am sorry but there is something terrible wrong... You (CBI) filed FIR against the victim (who are dead) saying he was insurgent. File FIR immediately. Enough is enough. We are not satisfied," the bench said.

The court was hearing a PIL seeking a probe into as many as 1,528 cases of extra-judicial killings in Manipur.

On July 14, 2017, the apex court had constituted the Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising five CBI officers and ordered registration of FIRs and investigation into alleged extra-judicial killings in Manipur.

During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Maninder Singh told the court that told the SIT had registered 42 cases so far on such killings.

However, senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, appearing for the petitioner, told the beach that out of these 42 FIRs, 40 have been lodged against the dead persons.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) also complained to the bench that SIT has been registering cases against the victims. To this, the court said it wants the NHRC to assist the probing team as the issue was "getting out of control".

The court directed the NHRC to depute three persons to associate with the SIT to carry out investigation in 17 (in which NHRC has done preliminary enquiry) cases.

The court said it wanted the SIT to process its investigation in an "expeditious way" and in accordance with its judgement.

The court posted the matter for further hearing on March 12.

The court, which was hearing a PIL seeking probe into 1,528 alleged extra-judicial killings, had ordered registration of FIR in 81 cases including 32 probed by a Commission of Enquiry, 32 investigated by judicial authorities, 11 in which compensation was awarded and six probed by the commission headed by former Supreme Court judge Santosh Hegde.Hyderabad, Feb 12 : NALSAR University of Law has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the University Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA), Brunei Darussalam, for cooperation and collaboration in research, education, and training programmes of mutual interest.

The areas of cooperation in the MoU include exchange of faculty, students, joint workshops/training programmes, joint research and development projects, joint education programmes, and exchange of publications, said a statement from the Hyderabad-based NALSAR.

Faizan Mustafa, Vice-Chancellor, NALSAR, and Haji Norarfan Bin Haji Zainal, Rector, UNISSA, signed the MoU.

NALSAR has already signed MoUs with 31 foreign universities, including those located in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, Israel, The Netherlands and Singapore for enabling exchange of faculty members, students and collaborative research projects.

"These partnerships motivate students to develop a rich understanding of cultures from other parts of the world and consequently enhance the quality of discussions and scholarship at NALSAR. Every year approximately 20-25 students spend a semester at these foreign universities," said the statement.Bhopal, Feb 12 : Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday announced that farmers will be paid Rs 200 bonus over the minimum support price (MSP) on every quintal of wheat they sell to the state government.

Addressing a farmers' convention here, he said, the MSP was low last year, "due to which the farmers did not get suitable rate for their crops. We have decided to give additional Rs 200 for every quintal of paddy and wheat to the farmers."

"We will also include onion and other rabi crops," he said at the Jamboree Maidan here.

"The farmers, who were not able to repay their loans due to any reason, will also be allowed to get a fresh loan at zero per cent interest," he added.

He asked farmers not to worry due to inclement weather. "The government is ready to help farmers with relief funds and insurance so that their crop losses can be repaid," he said.

He announced the opening of over 1,000 custom processing and service centres for farmer's children, which will help them know the rate of various crops in different markets in India.New Delhi, Feb 12 : The Maharashtra government on Monday told the Supreme Court that petitions seeking an independent probe into the death of Judge B.H. Loya were obliquely motivated, based on unverified media reports and were being orchestrated "because there is a particular functionary of a political party".

The apparent reference to "a particular functionary of a political party" was to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah, who was one of the accused in the alleged Sohrabuddin Sheikh staged shootout case. However, Shah was later discharged in the case.

Justice Loya was the judge of the Special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court that was holding the trial of the Sohrabuddin Sheikh shootout case.

Saying that PILs seeking an independent probe were moved with "oblique motive", senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi referred to the statements of the four judges of the Bombay High Court, who reached Ravi Bhawan (in Nagpur, where Judge Loya was staying) within half-an-hour of Judge Loya complaining of chest pain and uneasiness.

At the fag end of the hearing on Monday, senior counsel Dushyant Dave, who is appearing for PIL petitioner, the Bombay Lawyers Association, sought the copy of the communication sent by Commissioner of Intelligence to the four High Court judges for their statements.

Rohatgi said he has not seen it himself but added it would be made available to the senior counsel.

Rohtagi told the bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud that if the court was to reject the statements of the judges who said Judge Loya's death was natural then it has to be prima facie accepted they were conspirators to his death.

He told the court the allegation is that Judge Loya met an unnatural death and did not die of medical ailment.

Referring to the press conferences and demands being made to hold an independent probe into Judge Loya's death, Rohatgi said Loya's case was being politicised and "any further inquiry will only play into political hands..."

Rohatgi commenced his arguments referring to earlier pronouncements of the top court on PILs and said unverified media reports could not be legally admissible evidence.

Attributing oblique motives to the PILs and that the trial in Sohrabuddin Sheikh case had commenced three years after the death of Judge Loya, Rohatgi told the bench: "It is not that they have any sympathy for judiciary or concern for Judge Loya."

Taking the court through the sequence of events starting with November 29, 2014, evening when Judge Loya, along with two other trial court judges, left Bombay to attend a wedding in Nagpur, till December 1, 2014, when Judge Loya passed away, Rohatgi said that at no point of time was Judge Loya alone.

Mocking at the concern being shown by the PIL petitioners -- social activist Tehseen Poonawala, Maharashtra-based journalist Bandhuraj Sambhaji Lone, Bombay Lawyers Association and other interveners -- seeking independent probe into the death of Judge Loya, Rohatgi said everything started after a write-up appeared in the news magazine Caravan.

"No homework, no verification (of the content of the write-up) and you rely on hearsay and move the Supreme Court," Rohatgi said.

Rohatgi will continue with his arguments on February 16.Lucknow, Feb 12 : Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Uttar Pradesh government over the killing of a Dalit student in Allahabad and accused Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of failing to check soaring crime in the state.

The former Chief Minister said the daylight brutal killing of law student Dilip Saroj outside a restaurant in Allahabad had proved that criminals had no fear of law.

"On one hand innocent aspiring youngsters are facing such fate at the hands of criminals and on the other the police are targeting innocent people in encounters," the 44-year-old said in a statement.

He asked the government to give the student's family Rs 50 lakh in compensation.

Yadav added that in the 10 montha of BJP rule in Uttar Pradesh, insecurity has crept into the minds of the people and no action of the society was feeling safe.

The twin murder of a mother and son in Meerut, the brutal assault on a milkman in Bulandshahr, the fake encounter by police in Noida, triple murders in Bareilly and the murder of a trader in Allahabad had proved beyond doubt that all talk of peace and prosperity in the state was a farce.

"With such soaring crime, the Chief Minister is inviting people to invest in UP. Who will invest?" Akhilesh Yadav asked.Islamabad, Feb 12 : Pakistani Taliban confirmed on Monday that its senior commander was killed in a US drone strike in the country's North Waziristan tribal region last week and said they had appointed a new deputy to take his place.

A spokesperson of the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) said that Khan Saeed Mehsud alias Khalid Sajna, the deputy chief of the group, was killed on February 8 in the drone attack in North Waziristan, on the Pakistani side of the border.

However, the Pakistani media had reported earlier that Sajna came under the attack in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province, bordering Pakistan. Three of his guards were also killed in the strike.

TTP spokesperson Mohammad Khurasani said Sajna was also heading the Mehsud faction of the Taliban and that, following his death, the top leadership appointed Mufti Noor Wali Wali to replace their dead deputy.

According to reports, Sajna's death is a major blow to the group, which is blamed for most of the terrorist attacks in Pakistan.

Several top leaders of the TTP and the Afghan Taliban have been killed in US drone strikes on Pakistani territory.

In October, the TTP confirmed the death of the mastermind of the 2014 attack on a Pakistani school, in which 125 students were killed, some 15 months after Pakistan announced that the terrorist had died in a US bombing.

In May 2016, the leader of the Afghan Taliban, Mullah Mansour, was also killed in a US drone strike in Pakistan, meeting the same fate as the head of TTP, Hakimullah Mehsud, did in 2013.

Since 2004, the US has carried out around 410 drone attacks in Pakistan that have claimed between 2,361 and 3,688 lives, according to the American think tank New America, although strikes have reduced in recent years.Hyderabad, Feb 12 : Iran's President Hassan Rouhani, who is visiting India this week, will offer Friday prayers at the historic Makkah Masjid here and will also address the gathering, officials said.

Rouhani, who will be reaching here directly from Iran on Thursday, will attend various programmes during his two-day stay before proceeding to New Delhi.

After his arrival on Thursday evening, the Iranian President will interact with selected 'ulema' or religious scholars of both Shia and Sunni sects, intellectuals, and academicians.

The next day, Rouhani will offer Friday prayers at Makkah Masjid, a 17th-century mosque, located near the historic Charminar in the Muslim-majority old city. After 'Namaz-e-Juma', the Iranian leader will address the gathering, said an official at the Iranian consulate here.

The Iranian President will also visit Qutub Shahi tombs, a historic monument near Golconda Fort. He will pay tributes to the mausoleums of rulers of the Qutub Shahi dynasty (1518-1687), who were Shias. The 16th-17th-century necropolis has many mausoleums built in Persian architectural style.

Hyderabad has historic cultural links with Iran. The city, founded by Quli Qutub Shah, was designed on the lines of Iranian city Isfahan. Mir Momin Astrabadi, who had migrated from Iran, had prepared the design of Charminar and Hyderabad.

Rouhani is also likely to address a meeting of Iranians settled in Hyderabad.

The city has more than 1,000 Iranians, whose forefathers had migrated from Iran. Hyderabad is also home to the second largest Shia population in India after Lucknow.Thiruvananthapuram, February 12 : Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday upbraided RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat over the latters boast the other day that the RSS was more capable than the Indian army of putting together a force to fight for the country if the situation demanded.

The CPI(M) hardliner took to facebook to slam Mr. Bhagwat and the RSS, writing that the RSS chiefs comments yet again proved the RSSs scant respect for the constitution and constitutional institutions.

Mr. Bhagwats comments were in bad taste, posed a challenge to constitutional ethos, and exposed the RSS clandestine design to mount a parallel army with the aim of sowing disunity in the country to create anarchy, Mr. Vijayan wrote.

The RSS wants to turn the country into Mussolinis Italy or Hitlers Germany, he charged.

Mounting a parallel army is as grave an act as treason, Mr Vijayan wrote and called for the RSS chief to retract the incendiary and shocking remarks and apologise to the nation.

The Kerala chief minister also called for prime minister Narendra Modi to clarify his stand on the RSS chiefs belittling and derogatory remarks against the Indian army.

Addressing a crowd at Muzaffarnagar on Sunday, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat had said that even though the RSS was not a military organisation, it had military discipline and that if the country and the constitution required it would take the organisation only three days to get ready (for battle) whereas the India army would take six to seven months.

After the comments triggered a controversy, the RSS clarified that Mr. Bhagwat was only drawing a comparison between the discipline of the society at large and RSS workers.

Mr. Bhagwat meant to say that if the situation demanded, the army would take six to seven months to prepare the society but would only take three days for the army to prepare RSS workers since the RSS swayamsevaks practice disciple regularly, RSS leader Manmohan Vaidya clarified.New Delhi, Feb 12 : The Congress on Monday alleged the "government resources were misused" to organise a public event in Muscat for the promotion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The party demanded an explanation from the Union government as to how it allowed "instruments and institutions of the State to be misused in such a manner for the personal promotion of the Prime Minister and for his propaganda, which is unbecoming of his office".

"We are in possession of a letter dated January 17 from the Indian Ambassador to Muscat. He has written to all major Indian companies there, saying that the Embassy of India in Muscat plans to organise a mega public event for the Indian community in the second week of February in Muscat," senior Congress leader Anand Sharma told reporters here.

"The letter also said that the date, time and venue of the proposed event will be conveyed soon. It also said that as employees and workers of major companies in Oman represent a significant section of the Indian community living in Oman, they (Indian Embassy) would like to have their participation in the event," he added.

The Congress leader shared the said letter with reporters.

"They gave clear directives to the Indian companies to bring their workers, employees and insulting them by saying that 80 per cent should be blue-collar workers.

"A format was also enclosed, with requests for their details. The information about persons nominated to participate in the event were told to be kept fully secure... A request was made to arrange group transport for the participants," Sharma said quoting the letter.

The former Union Minister said: "The government's resources have throughout been misused in the past for organising mega events -- whether it was in Madison Square or Wembley Stadium. There was huge expenditure because it was more of a celebration and a cultural event or a festival.

"Even for the recent one, he created a platform through government agencies and the Indian Embassy to bring in people. They had no option but to come and cheer the Prime Minister," said Sharma.Mumbai, Feb 12 : Unnerved by the spate of suicide attempts and a death after a man jumped off the Mantralaya last week, the Maharashtra government on Monday spread a safety net in its headquarters to prevent any more such fatal bids, officials said.

The safety net has come up on the second floor of the building's main lobby, which was the scene of suicide by a murder convict on parole, who jumped to his death last Thursday.

The safety net is similar to the one seen at construction sites of skyscrapers or even the ones used by trapeze artistes to prevent an accidental fall in circus performances.

Leader of Opposition in Maharashtra Council, Dhananjay Munder of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), grabbed the opportunity to poke fun at the government initiative by asking whether "Mantralaya has now become a circus ground".

"It's a good initiative, but the government should take preventive measures to eradicate the root cause of suicide attempts in Mantralaya," Munde said in a backhanded compliment.

The net is the first among various security options being contemplated at the highest levels to prevent suicide attempts inside the high-security zone in south Mumbai's Nariman Point.

In fact, in the past few weeks, the government was rocked by at least three suicide attempts in which two persons lost their lives.

The opposition Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) jeered at the embarrassed Bharatiya Janata Party-Shiv Sena government by dubbing Mantralaya as a "suicide point".

The suicide attempts and the deaths came despite stringent security and screening measures implemented at all the entry points in Mantralaya.

Now, the government is planning to to permanently shut or barricade some windows on the top floors, erect tough grills at windows to prevent people from climbing onto the parapet walls and even restrict access to some areas like the topmost floors or the terraces in the building.

Even the huge daily inflow of visitors may be curbed by plans to set up a special desk outside the main building for people wanting casual access only to submit letters, memoranda or such work, without needing to actually meet ministers or bureaucrats concerned, an official added.Imphal, Feb 12 : Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh announced on Monday that an air dispensary will start functioning soon in Manipur.

The Central government plans to introduce a helicopter-based Dispensary/OPD service in far-flung and remote areas where no doctor or medical facility is available and patients also do not have access to any medical care.

According to health department officials, the service will also be launched simultaneously in Meghalaya.

The Chief Minister made the statement in the Manipur Assembly. He said the dispensaries will start functioning soon.

According to Manipur Governor Najma Heptulla, the idea of air dispensary was her brainchild.

"During my official visit to Australia I came to know of the air dispensary services there. I approached the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to introduce such dispensary service in Manipur.

"Most of the remote and secluded villages have no access to modern medicare. The Prime Minister patiently heard my proposal and assured all possible help," Heptulla said.

In the absence of ambulance or motorable roads in the hilly areas, many times the expectant mothers and physically weak patients in the northeast region are taken in litters to hospitals.

The BJP government in Manipur had taken steps to provide round-the-clock services in rural and hill hospitals. However, it failed due to lack of enough staff in hospitals and scarcity of life-saving machines and medicines.

"The doctors will rush to the affected villages in the well-equipped and stocked helicopters to attend to the patients in the remote villages," Heptulla said.Jammu, Feb 12 : Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said militants who killed five soldiers and a civilian at an Army camp in Jammu were Pakistanis and warned that Islamabad will pay a price for the terror attack.

"Pakistan will have to pay for this misadventure," Sitharaman told reporters here. The deaths of "our soldiers won't go in vain".

The minister was in Jammu to take stock of the situation at the Sunjuwan Army camp which three heavily armed militants stormed on Saturday morning and entered the residential quarters of junior commissioned officers, spraying bullets and hurling bombs.

The operation was called off on Monday morning after the three attackers were killed. A fourth one, she said, may have been a guide and didn't enter the military base.

"Since the terrorist were dressed in battle fatigues and had similar appearance to their possible target victims, the operation had to be done (in a way) to eliminate the possibility of any mistaken identity of collateral damage."

She said the operations entailed a search of 26 blocks and safe evacuation of families from 189 residential flats.

Sitharaman said the three militants were all Pakistanis and were handled by their Jaish-e-Muhammad leaders across the border.

"The terrorists belonged to JeM, sponsored by Masood Azhar residing in Pakistan and deriving support from therein," she said, adding a possibility of local support was being investigated.

"The cantonment is located on the outskirts of Jammu, approximately 30 km from the International Boundary, in a semi-urban environment with densely populated civilian localities adjacent to the cantonment perimeter wall. The demography of the cantonment and the adjoining area indicates the possibility of local support to the terrorists."

She said the Jaish module that conducted the attack may have infiltrated sometime back.

"Our intelligence inputs indicate that these terrorists were being controlled by handlers from across the border. The evidence has been scrutinised by National Investigation Agency who shall soon furnish a detailed report."

The Minister asserted that evidences related to Jaish's involvement in the terror attack would be shared with Pakistan.

"Giving evidence to Pakistan is a continuous process. It will have to be proved over and over again that they are responsible."

She said giving evidence to Pakistan would not prevent the Indian Army from responding "appropriately and at a time we deem fit".

The Minister said infiltration from across the Line of Control had ebbed to a great extent due to "anti-infiltration obstacle system and a dynamic multi-layered counter-infiltration grid" and activities of militants in hinterland were also being curbed.

Despite this, she said, "Pakistan is expanding the arc of terror and resorting to ceasefire violations to aid infiltration.

"Although the terrain configuration and snow conditions make it difficult to complete or stop the infiltration, the government is taking a host of measures in procuring modern electronic surveillance systems to implement Philip Campose committee report which was instituted to review the security of all military installations for which a sum of Rs 1,487 crore has been allocated."

She said other measures to stop infiltration of militants and enhance alertness along the border included installing additional censors, UAVs and long range surveillance devices "to cover the entire frontage of the LoC".

Earlier, the Minister undertook an aerial survey of the Army station and visited the Army Hospital in Jammu city where those injured in the terror attack were being treated.

She also called on Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.New Delhi, Feb 12 : Amid the raging political crisis in the Maldives, China on Monday refuted allegations made by former Maldives President Mohammed Nasheed that Beijing is engaging in grabbing land in the Indian Ocean archipelago nation.

"Recently, former Maldivian President Nasheed made a lot of false remarks in the Indian media.

"He pointed fingers at the practical cooperation between China and Maldives and alleged that China engaged in so-called 'land grabbing' of Maldivian islands, which undermines the security of the Indian Ocean region," Ji Rong, spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy here, said in a statement.

"These allegations are apparently groundless with no regard to facts."

In an interview to an Indian newspaper, Nasheed sought India's help saying that the Maldives is currently faced with two problems: radical Islam and China's attempts at land grabbing.

He said that China now has 17 islands in that country and talking about investing $40 million but the purpose for this was not known.

He said that this problem was a not a bilateral one but multilateral and sought India's intervention.

Nasheed's comments come amid the current political crisis and after Maldives President Abdulla Yameen rushed through Parliament a free trade agreement with China last year, which raised eyebrows in New Delhi as it went against Male's "India First" policy.

India has traditionally held influence in the Indian Ocean atoll nation where China has been trying to make inroads because of the country's strategic location.

Experts say the Maldivian crisis could well become a new power struggle between India and China.

Ji, in his statement, said that in recent years, "on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, China and the Maldives have been cooperating on infrastructure and livelihood projects, which has played a positive role in transforming and upgrading the latter's economy and improving its people's livelihood" and these measures have been "widely welcomed" by the Maldivian people".

"As a matter of fact, when Nasheed was the President, China and Maldives have already launched relevant cooperation projects. The 'land grabbing' allegation by Nasheed is apparently meant to serve certain political purposes of him."

The Maldives has plunged into a crisis with President Yameen declaring a state of emergency and arresting the Chief Justice and a former head of state, after the Supreme Court termed as unjust the imprisonment of nine MPs and Nasheed who is in exile.

Yameen sent special envoys to China, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia even as New Delhi politely declined to host the Maldivian Foreign Minister.

Ji also reiterated China's stand that the current situation in Maldives is its "internal affair" and "should be properly resolved through dialogue and negotiation by various parties in the country" as the Maldivian government and people have the "wisdom and ability to properly handle the problems they face and restore order".Ranchi, Feb 12 : A Ranchi court on Monday awarded death sentence to a person convicted for the rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in 2014, a lawyer said.

The court of Shivapal Singh pronounced the quantum of sentence on Monday on Gandhi Oraon, who was convicted for the crime on January 31.

Oraon, a bus driver's assistant, raped the minor at the Khadgara bus stand on March 21, 2014 after luring her away by promising her a chocolate.

As the girl kept crying after the rape, he crushed her head with a big stone. The body was found the next day.

The girl's father lodged an FIR against Oraon, who was arrested while he was trying to flee to West Bengal. The accused has been in jail since 2014.Rome, Feb 12 : Italy's Foreign Minister Angelino Alfano said on Monday that he will on Tuesday attend a meeting of the global coalition against the Islamic State jihadist group.

"I will keep stressing the need to stem IS's financial flows and those of all other terrorist organisations," Alfano told a meeting in Rome of Italian tax agents working abroad.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Kuwait's Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled al-Hamad Al-Sabah are among those due to attend the anti-IS coalition summit.

The US-lead coalition against the IS was formed in September 2014 and contains 70 partner countries, the Arab League, NATO, the European Union and Interpol.Cape Town, Feb 12 : With allegations against South African President Jacob Zuma stirring "discord" in the governing African National Congress (ANC) party, its leaders, which met on Monday to decide his fate, are likely to ask him to quit, reports said.

The National Executive Committee (NEC) is likely to ask the South African President to step down, a BBC report said.

ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the issue was causing "disunity and discord" as Zuma faced a number of corruption charges after nine years in power.

"There are 112 members of the NEC, and many may want to share their views during the meeting in Pretoria -- meaning they may not finish until late on Monday," the BBC report said, adding that Zuma is not legally obliged to step down if the NEC asks him to.

"However, he would then be expected to face a confidence vote in parliament. The date for this has already been set for February 22," the report noted.

Ramaphosa on Sunday said that the people "want this matter to be finalised" and that the ANC would comply.

Acknowledging that his party was going through "a period of difficulty, disunity and discord", he said he was seeking "a new beginning".

Last week, an NEC meeting was called off as Zuma and Ramaphosa directly met for talks to reach a conclusion.

Zuma faces the allegations of corruption as his links in recent years to a wealthy India-born Gupta family is believed to have influenced the government.

However, both the President and the Guptas have denied the allegations levelled against them.

Zuma has not been found guilty in any of the 18 corruption charges levelled against him. The allegations stem from a 1990s arms deal which were dropped before he became President in 2009, following incumbent Thabo Mbeki's resignation in 2008.Kolkata, Feb 12 : LPG supply may be "partially" affected if the strike, called by the bulk LPG transport tankers from Monday in the eastern and southern Indian states, continues.

"We have commenced the strike from today (Monday) in the eastern and southern region. North and western regions are also likely to join the strike soon," said Bulk LPG Transport Contractors Association (Eastern India) Executive Committee Member, Bhupinder Gujral.

About 4,00 tankers run in the eastern states to feed 30 odd bottling plants and nearly 22,000 tankers are expected to be off the road if the four regions go on strike, he said, adding that stocks with the bottling plants vary between 2-4 days.

Criticising the new tendering rules floated by oil marketing companies for tankers for transporting liquefied petroleum, Gujral said the preference clause should be removed from the new rules.

"The tender, earlier, was floated zone-wise. The eastern zone comprises of West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar and Jharkhand. But now, they have floated it state-wise and stated preference would be given to tankers registered in the specific state. This is not acceptable to us," he said.

LPG distributors have already apprehended that the supply would be affected.

According to an official of Indian Oil Corporation, the strike, if continues for long, may affect the supply "partially" as many bottling plants are fed through pipelines.Kohima/Shillong, Feb 12 : Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party's Chief Ministerial candidate Neiphiu Rio was declared uncontested to the 60-member Nagaland assembly after his lone rival of the ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) candidate Chupfuo Angami withdrew his nomination on Monday.

For Rio, who is currently Nagaland's lone Lok Sabha member, it is the second time that he has won the assembly elections uncontested. The first time he won uncontested was a Congress candidate in 1998, when the separatist National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) and Naga Hoho had called for a poll boycott after it signed a ceasefire with the Indian government in 1997.

"The NPF candidate withdrew his nomination today (Monday) and the only other candidate of the NDPP (Rio) was declared winner," said Nagaland's Chief Electoral Officer Abhijit Sinha.

NPF spokesperson Sebastian Zumvu said the party was surprised by their candidate's decision, while there was jubilation in the NDPP-BJP, which has forged a pre-poll alliance and now has one seat in their kitty ahead of the February 27 elections.

"They (NPF) are imposing candidates with money to contest the elections and playing politics with money, but some of them realized that we need a strong leader to provide a stable government," Rio told IANS from Kohima.

"I must say that people are fed up with the ruling party and you may expect more surprises in the days to come," the three-time former Chief Minister added.

Rio also voiced confidence that NDPP-BJP will get an absolute majority the assembly elections Last month, Rio quit the NPF, which he formed after leaving the Congress in early 2002 and joined the NDPP.

Meanwhile, a total of 195 candidates are in the fray after 32 candidates withdrew their nomination papers on Monday.Jammu, Feb 12 : Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that any action performed by the Army in its call of duty has to be seen in the relevant context and the government will stand by the force.

Addressing the media after her visit to Sunjuwan army camp following a terror attack, she, asked several questions about the FIR against Major Aditya Kumar by Jammu and Kashmir Police in civilian killings during a firing incident in the Valley, said that the government was conscious that the Army, trained to tackle the external enemy, was working under duress in an internal security situation.

Sitharaman said the the matter concerning Major Aditya Kumar was in the Supreme Court. "We have to see how it goes. We stand by our proud soldiers and army. And in the call of duty, if they have performed something, it will have to be contextualised," she said.

"The Ministry of Defence, me as Raksha Mantri, and the Government of India under Prime Minister's leadership will stand by the Army. We shall not let anybody down," she said.

She said the state has an elected government led by Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and the Central and state governments will have to work together to ensure that Army "is taken care of because they are fighting a very, very severe struggle".

Sitharaman said she met Mehbooba Mufti and had a detailed discussion.

On possibility of involvement of Rohingya Muslims in the incident, she said the Army will share all information with the Jammu and Kashmir Police.New Delhi, Feb 13 : Kolkata will become a "safe city" for women with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee seeking the measure to ensure safety and security to women from the Nirbhaya Fund, an Central government official said on Monday.

"For the first time, Mamata Banerjee had sent her team to attend meetings of Ministry of Home Affairs and suggested proposals for utilisation of funds from Nirbhaya Fund and 'safe city' project is a part of it," a Union Women Child and Development Ministry official told IANS.

According to the ministry, seven more cities, apart from Kolkata have been finalised for safe city projects under Nirbhaya Fund and these are New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad and Lucknow.

"The project cycle has been fixed for four years and the expenditure from the fund will happen accordingly. The amount allocated cannot be utilised overnight," the official added.

Union Women Child and Development Minister Maneka Gandhi, addressing a press conference, said that Banerjee had earlier refused to implement 'One Stop Centres' (OSC) in her state despite being approached by her ministry.

The OSC scheme, started in 2015 under Nirbhaya Fund, are supposed to provide access to services like medical aid, police assistance, legal aid and psycho-social counselling to victims of sexual assaults.

Asked about the utilisation of Nirbhaya Fund, Gandhi said that funds will only be disbursed if the schemes are actually meant for providing safety to women.

"We are just waiting for good ideas to come in. There is money under Nirbhaya Fund and it is being utilised but I am strict. WCD is using the fund where I find that those funds will make a difference to women and where it won't, I am not going to approve," she said.Cairo, Feb 13 : US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Monday that his country will support Egypt in its war against terrorism.

"The Egyptian people should be confident that the US commitment to continue to support Egypt in fight against terrorism and bringing security to Egyptian people is steadfast," Xinhua quoted Tillerson as saying in Cairo during a press conference with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry.

"We agreed we would continue our close cooperation on counterterrorism measures," Tillerson said.

Tillerson's visit came as Egypt was carrying out a nationwide anti-terror military operation that aimed to uproot terrorist groups who killed hundreds of Egyptians in the past few years.

Secretary Tillerson had launched on Sunday a regional trip to visit Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt and Kuwait.

His trip comes amid regional discontent of the US administration's decision to recognise the disputed city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

It is Tillerson's first visit to Egypt where discussed with Egyptian officials the ongoing US-Egypt partnership.

On the Middle East peace process, the US Secretary of State said his country remains committed to achieving lasting peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians.It is the goal of EK Health to continue to Transform Managed Care by developing tools that help eliminate friction points in the injury recovery process. Care++ is an easy and effective way for injured workers to confidentially communicate with their nurses via their mobile devices.

Care++ is a mobile app created by EK Healths technology partner, DataCare, to streamline and enhance communication between the injured employee and his or her EK Health Nurse Case Manager. Seamless integration with DataCares Ahshay Case Management Platform automatically stores information in the case file, which benefits the injured employee, nurse case manager, physician, and adjuster.

As an efficiency enhancement, Care++ optimizes the nurse case managers workflow by reducing phone calls regarding appointments, prescriptions, authorized treatments, etc. Directly from the app, the injured employee can send messages, images, and documents, as well as any medical questions to the assigned nurse case manager.

Features of Care++ include the following:



Log all conversations for future reference.

Streamline communication with secure messaging to allocate more time for other important tasks.

Protect all patient information with secure and HIPAA compliant safeguards.

Deliver mobile convenience compatible with both Android and iPhone.

Enhance communication with emojis for clarity and rapport.

Monica Lichtenstein, EK Healths VP of Operations, commented:

It is the goal of EK Health to continue to Transform Managed Care by developing tools that help eliminate friction points in the injury recovery process. Care++ is an easy and effective way for injured workers to confidentially communicate with their nurses via their mobile devices. We are pleased and excited to be able to offer this to injured workers."

About EK Health:

EK Health Services, Inc. is a leading national Medical and Disability Case Management company specializing in workers' compensation. Learn more about EK Healths services at http://www.ekhealth.com.The attendance and feedback from last year's Fiduciary Summit was amazing. Summit attendees expressed appreciation for a number of valuable, pragmatic and actionable best-practices that strengthen retirement program success, mitigate risk and contain cost.

2018 marks the seventh consecutive year Xponential Growth Solutions (XGS) has held the Retirement Plan Roadshow, first founded in 2012 to assist U.S. employers in reaching their retirement plan goals through educational workshops. The 2018 Seattle Fiduciary Summit, set to take place Tuesday, March 6, 2018 from 11:00am to 3:00pm (luncheon included) at the Columbia Tower Club in Seattle, Washington, is the first of many stops along this annual, nationwide tour.

XGS is committed to providing education and resources that help business owners, fiduciaries, and finance, human resource, and benefit executives to better understand retirement plan best practices and industry trends. This, in turn, allows them to make informed decisions and develop strategies that will help businesses to grow and provide positive outcomes for plan participants.

The annual Retirement Plan Road Show supports this goal by pairing local speakers with industry leaders to discuss a diverse range of topics, from fiduciary responsibility, plan design, and investments, to healthcare, wellness, and more. In 2017, the Retirement Plan Roadshow reached over 1,200 companies and organizations, positively impacting more than 2 million plan participants representing over $125 billion in retirement plan assets. XGS hopes to have an even greater impact with the 2018 Retirement Plan Road Show.

Following last years successes, Bill Small, the Co-Founder and Principal of Highland Capital Advisors (Issaquah, WA) has once again been tapped to host the Seattle Fiduciary Summit, this year with Dave Rowe, Senior Consultant and Equity Partner at Highland Capital Advisors. Bill Small emphasizes that "The attendance and feedback from last year's Fiduciary Summit was amazing. Summit attendees expressed appreciation for a number of valuable, pragmatic and actionable best-practices that strengthen retirement program success, mitigate risk and contain cost."

As event hosts, Small and Rowe will lead discussions on timely fiduciary topics affecting local plan sponsors. This years lineup of local guest speakers includes:



Christine Hawkins, Associate at Davis Wright Tremaine, LLP

Shawn Hansen, CPA & Shareholder  Clark Nuber (Bellevue, WA)

and more to be announced!

Topics of discussion for the 2018 Seattle Fiduciary Summit include:



Recent Lawsuits & Legal Update

Health, Wealth, and the Future of Retirement

Plan Investment Advisors: A Field Guide

Whats Up on Capitol Hill?

Ask the Experts  Local & National Professional Panel

More Topics TBA!

Participants in the 2018 Seattle Fiduciary Summit may be eligible to receive the following continuing education benefits for attendance:



3 Hours of CPE/CPA Credit

3 Hours of HRCI/SPHR/PHR/GPHR General Credit

3 Hours of SHRM Professional Development Credits (PDCs)

CEBS Eligible

The cost to attend this event is a registration fee of $150, which may be waved for select, qualified plan sponsors following completion of a one-minute Retirement Plan Roadshow survey.

About Xponential Growth Solutions

Xponential Growth Solutions (XGS) is an independent resource for unbiased education, best practices, and referrals, working to help employers make informed decisions about retirement plans in order to create a positive impact for plan participants. XGS offers solutions for 401(k), 403(b), 457, and defined benefit retirement plans, while also facilitating national fiduciary educational summits designed to help human resource, finance, and business professionals in charge of retirement plans to understand and observe best practices in order to reach retirement plan goals. XGS founded the Retirement Plan Roadshow, a nationwide series of educational summits featuring local and leading fiduciary experts, in 2012.

For more information, visit: http://www.xgrowthsolutions.com

About Highland Capital Advisors, LLC

Investment consultants Highland Capital Advisors rely on years of experience in retirement and investment planning and custom designed analytics to provide clients with unique solutions for their retirement, pension, and investment planning needs.

For more information, visit: http://www.hcportfolios.com/Drs. Douglas Campbell, Lawrence Addleson and David Landau Offer Treatment for Jaw Pain in Chula Vista, CA

Drs. Lawrence Addleson, Douglas Campbell and David Landau, of Art of Dentistry, now welcome new patients with malocclusion who may be experiencing bruxism, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues and jaw pain in Chula Vista, CA. Malocclusion, also referred to as an uneven bite, is a common oral condition that can lead to a number of health concerns if left untreated. The team of leading dentists have advanced expertise in identifying and treating problems resulting from improper occlusion and oral function, and but also refined skill and extensive experience in improving smile esthetics.

Occlusion is an oral health term describing how the upper and lower teeth fit together when biting. When the bite is balanced, teeth come together evenly and facilitate a healthy oral environment. Malocclusion is characterized by an uneven bite, and can lead to dental concerns like fractured or cracked teeth, broken fillings, wear on teeth and oral discomfort, among others. Effects of the problem range from minor to severe, and may include anything from discomfort upon chewing to the inability to close the mouth. Common causes of improper occlusion are bruxism (habitual teeth clenching or grinding), TMJ disorders, uneven chewing surfaces and tooth movement or loss.

Art of Dentistrys experienced team of doctors is trained to diagnose and treat TMJ and occlusion issues, which are often first identified by symptoms like chronic headaches and jaw pain. Chula Vista, CA, patients experiencing these problems may benefit from a customized treatment plan that specifically addresses individualized needs. The respected cosmetic dentists offer a targeted skillset and comprehensive approach to care. Drs. Addleson, Campbell and Landau incorporate the latest in advanced technology and science into improving not only occlusion and oral function, but helping patients achieve their ideal smile as well. Committed to excellence, they often collaborate with the areas top specialists to bring a high level of care to their patients.

New patients who have concerns about occlusion, bruxism, TMJ or jaw pain in Chula Vista, CA, are encouraged to call Art of Dentistry at 619-291-4325for an appointment with Drs. Addleson, Campbell or Landau, or visit http://www.sandiegoartofdentistry.com to learn more about their services.

About the Practice

Art of Dentistry is a cosmetic dental practice offering patients customized dental care in San Diego, CA. Applying a philosophy that considers the art, science and biology of a smile, Drs. Lawrence Addleson, R. Douglas Campbell and David Landau provide personalized care in a comfortable, family atmosphere. With combined experience of over 85 years, the Art of Dentistry team uses state-of-the-art technology and leading techniques to craft each healthy smile. To learn more about Drs. Addleson, Campbell and Landau or the services they offer, visit their website, http://www.sandiegoartofdentistry.com. To experience the Art of Dentistry difference, call 619-291-4325.Traveling in small groups with more freedom to explore and meet locals eager to share their world and discovering some of the most authentic corners of The Last Frontier by small ship are just a few of the spectacular highlights of Windstars new cruise tours in Alaska.

With the highly anticipated return of Windstar Cruises to the scenic beauty of Alaska in May 2018 (after a hiatus of more than 20 years from sailing in the region) comes an agenda of larger-than-life adventures awaiting those boarding the 212-guest Star Legend. The award-winning cruise line has announced that a new batch of Alaska cruise tours are open for booking, combining the best of Alaskas interior along with a cruise. The new cruise tours start at $4,269 per person.

The four new cruise tours will let visitors spend up to 20 days exploring by land and sea, while the newly announced Signature Expeditions will bring them even closer to the action with experiences like kayaking to explore glaciers with experienced glaciologists and marine biologists guiding the way. These experienced Signature Expeditions staffers also sail with guests for the entirety of their Windstar cruise  providing opportunities for personal discussions, lectures, and insider information. On tap with the new cruise tours will be unparalleled, up-close views of glaciers and the Inside Passage as well as the perfect combination of interior and port cities.

Our cruise tours coupled with our new Signature Expeditions will take our guests beyond the expected, said Windstar President John Delaney. Traveling in small groups with more freedom to explore and meet locals eager to share their world and discovering some of the most authentic corners of The Last Frontier by small ship are just a few of the spectacular highlights of Windstars new cruise tours in Alaska.

On land, guests will see majestic Mount McKinley standing watch over the six million acres of rugged land and wildlife that is Denali National Park. Exploration of the park itself of course includes scouting for bears and other wildlife, and the journey to the park is a scenic adventure in its own right  reached via a deluxe domed train that passes remote and beautiful scenery along the journey. At sea, they will be able to cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park and up Misty Fjords past areas where larger cruise ships normally turn around, and then launch small watercraft directly from the ship to explore hidden coves and glacier-fed waterfalls, pausing to take in the jaw-dropping vistas or spot a humpback whale.

The following cruise tours are now open for booking:

Denali & Alaskan Wilderness Cruise Tour  Fairbanks to Vancouver (18 days)

This tour begins near the highest point in North America among the breathtaking beauty of pristine Denali National Park and then sets sail through the ice floes and turquoise-tinged glaciers of the stunning Alaskan coastline. Seafood lovers can feast on delectable king crab paired with classic sourdough bread and hoppy handcrafted amber ales. The four-day land tour portion of Alaska begins in Fairbanks where guests can explore downtown before boarding the Riverboat Discovery up the Chena River then driving to Denali National Park to embark on an action-packed excursion searching for wildlife, like caribou and grizzlies. Guests then travel to Talkeetna aboard a beautiful domed train to enjoy the areas colorful history and a farewell dinner. Denali & Alaskan Wilderness Cruise Tour truly highlights all that The Last Frontier has to offer. From a scenic cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park  a place larger ships cannot access  to spot sea lions, puffins and whales to Icy Strait Point  travelers can sample a variety of daring activities and visually captivating settings. Haines, a quaint little town on North Americas longest fjord bordering 20 million acres of protected wilderness, will offer outdoor adventures like rafting and historical Wrangell will reveal an impressive collection of totem poles, as well as thousand-year old rock carvings. The voyage continues in Prince Rupert, British Columbia where sightseers can take a tour of the old salmon cannery before sailing through the protected waters of the Inside Passage packed with a feast for the senses including lush rainforests, brilliant white lighthouses, majestic orcas and playful seals. This epic tour finishes in Vancouver passing beneath the iconic Lions Gate Bridge. Here Windstar guests have the option to extend their stay and take in a few famous attractions like the Vancouver Aquarium, Gastown and Granville Islands Public Market.

Alaskan Explorations & Denali Cruise Tour  Vancouver to Fairbanks (15 or 16 days)

Adventurers can experience a combination of British Columbias grandeur and Alaskas small community seclusion, sailing north along Canadas Inside Passage to the Eastern Alaskan Coast and remote interior, while catching glimpses of scenic glaciers and fjords, as the compact size of Windstars vessels grants unsurpassed access and perspectives. Devoting four days to exploring Alaska by land, the Alaskan Explorations & Denali Cruise Tour starts off in Vancouver, a bustling metropolis set against magnificent beauty, before heading north to the Klondike through the Canadian Inside Passage and spending time in Ketchikan where guests will have the opportunity to visit artisans weaving baskets and carving totem poles. Snowcapped peaks and lush vegetation surround t Star Legend on its way through Misty Fjords to Wrangell, a fishermans paradise known for some of the worlds finest fly fishing. Other attractions include a trip to Icy Strait Point where the largest summer population of humpback whales call Point Adolphus home, and a stop in Juneau, Alaskas capital encompassed by 4,000-foot glacier-draped peaks. Many more unparalleled photo opportunities await travelers in Haines from soaring white-headed bald eagles and brown bears to vibrant, spring wildflowers, while the imposing twin Sawyer Glaciers found in Tracy Arm Fjord will captivate even the most seasoned photographers. The tour will also make its way through the ever-popular Kenai Fjords National Park and end up in Seward where guests will drive to Anchorage amidst stunning views of the Turnagain Arm shorelines before taking a deluxe dome railcar from Talkeetna to Denali and a river cruise in Fairbanks prior to returning home.

Pacific Crossing & Denali Cruise Tour  Tokyo (Yokohama) to Fairbanks (17 days)

Between the Far East and Americas furthest west and from Japans sleek and trendy urban wonders to Alaskas rustic outposts, this 17-day tour is abundant in both the exotic and bucolic, spending four days touring Alaska by land and 13 days cruising the North Pacific. In Tokyo, travelers can take advantage of Michelin-star restaurants, Kabuki theater and Sumo wrestling before continuing on to locations like Kushiro, home to Japans largest marshland and endangered Japanese cranes, and Miyako, a city slowly recovering from the devastating 2011 tsunami and whose Jodogahama Beach has been nationally dubbed a Place of Scenic Beauty. The second half of this awe-inspiring trip explores Alaska, beginning in Seward, visiting the blue-green waters of Kenai Lake amongst other local activities before driving to Talkeetna, a small mining town, to board a domed railcar to reach Denali National Park. Guests then will delve into the magnificence of Denali with a seven to eight-hour tour, encompassing the parks history and catching glimpses of a few local friends like caribou, moose, and grizzly bears. The voyage ends in Fairbanks, Alaskas Golden Heart, where highlights include a cruise down the Chena River detailing the history of the pioneering community, meeting champion sled dogs and a final, mouthwatering farewell dinner.

Denali & Aleutians Cruise Tour  Fairbanks to Tokyo (20 days)

Legendary Denali National Park and the best of the Far East are within reach during this epic three-week cruise tour that ranges from the rustic and remote Alaskan interior to Tokyos vibrant and trendy shopping districts. Cruisers can swig amber ales shoulder to shoulder with rugged Alaskan fisherman or slurp steaming Udon noodles next to Sapporo-sipping salarymen. This expansive North Pacific crossing offers unforgettable and immersive opportunities among the best in Alaskan and Japanese scenery, culture and cuisine, spending four days touring Alaska by land and 16 days cruising the North Pacific. Beginning in Fairbanks, Windstar guests can enjoy a walk through historic downtown before setting sail on a three-hour Riverboat Discovery cruise exploring an Athabascan village and ultimately arriving at Denali National Park for a welcome reception filled with all-you-can-eat salmon and barbecue ribs  satiating appetites in preparation of the adventure-packed fun that awaits trekkers the following day. Denali & Aleutians Cruise Tour also makes stops in the bohemian town of Homer, an eclectic mix of fishermen, hippies and artists with an impressive farm-to-table movement; Russian-influenced Kodiak, home of the Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church and Baranov Museum; the small cannery settlement known as Sand Point where very rare, long stretches of sandy beaches appear; and Dutch Harbor  the site of a Japanese bombing during World War II. The remainder of the cruise will take place in Japan from visiting the artists villages in Kushiro to the beautiful shores of Miyako and the exhilarating backdrop of Tokyo.

To learn more about authentic small ship cruising with Windstar, contact a travel professional or Windstar Cruises by phone at 877-958-7718, or visit http://www.windstarcruises.com.This latest recognition underscores the value of our focused approach to deploying advanced analytics across the buy-make-move-fulfill supply chain.

With its cross-functional, Total Value Optimization approach, Maine Pointe is uniquely positioned to help CEOs and senior executives visualize and realize the power of data to create an optimized, demand-driven digital supply chain for competitive advantage, said Maine Pointes Chairman and CEO, Steven Bowen. Our inclusion in CIOReviews annual listing recognizes Maine Pointes position at the forefront of providing data analytics solutions that change business dynamics and can impact the clients marketplace, he added.

The shortlisted firms are at the forefront of tackling the challenges associated with modern-day data analytics, said Jeevan George, Managing Editor of CIOReview, We are delighted to include Maine Pointe as one of the 20 Most Promising Data Analytics Solution Providers 2018.

Maine Pointes data analytics capability is a key foundation in helping clients transform their supply chain into a competitive weapon and compete on value. The methodologies, tools and approach provide the bedrock of actionable insights that help clients identify, track, measure and report on operational improvements to release cash, drive out cost and enable growth. This pragmatic implementation approach helps CEOs move their organization up the Data Analytics Maturity Curve to enable digital transformation across their business.

This latest recognition underscores the value of our focused approach to deploying advanced analytics across the buy-make-move-fulfill supply chain, said Simon Knowles, Chief Marketing Officer, Maine Pointe. Our data analytics supply chain expertise drives unique insights at the intersection of procurement, logistics and operations. This is achieved by aggregating and visualizing information from big data, the supply chain and customer behavior to enable a demand-driven digital supply chain in all businesses.

About Maine Pointe

Maine Pointe is a global implementation-focused consulting firm trusted by many chief executives and private equity firms to drive compelling economic returns for their companies. We achieve this by delivering accelerated, sustainable improvements in both EBITDA and cash across their procurement, logistics and operations to enable growth. Our hands-on implementation experts work with executives and their teams to rapidly break through functional silos and transform the buy-make-move-fulfill supply chain to deliver the greatest value to customers and investors at the lowest cost to business. We call this Total Value Optimization (TVO).

Maine Pointes engagements are results-driven and deliver between 3.5:1-12:1 ROI. We are so confident in our work and our processes that we provide a unique 100% guarantee of engagement fees based on annualized savings. http://www.mainepointe.com

About CIOReview

Published from Fremont, California, CIOReview is a print magazine that explores and understands the plethora of ways adopted by firms to execute the smooth functioning of their businesses. A distinguished panel comprising of CEOs, CIOs, IT VPs including CIOReview editorial board finalized the 20 Most Promising Data Analytics Providers 2018 and shortlisted the best vendors and consultants. For more info, visit: http://www.cioreview.comI greatly enjoyed the combination of being in Santa Fe and the intellectual stimulation of the Summer Classics. The afternoons and evenings were free to enjoy field trips, hiking, museums, eating, walking and relaxing!" Lynne Davidson

This summer, explore enduring works of literature, science, and art at Summer Classics, a series of weeklong seminars running July 1-20, 2018 at St. Johns College. Experience St. Johns lively and renowned discussion-based approach to timeless texts, guided by the second-highest rated faculty in the nation (Princeton Review, 2016). Spend your evenings outside the classroom exploring Santa Fes world-famous arts, opera, fine dining, and outdoor adventure offerings.

This years theme, A Time of Contrasts, considers approximately 30 works and topics that include Tolstoy's War and Peace and Dante's Purgatory, Ralph Ellisons Invisible Man and Jane Austens Emma, film noir and neo-noir, the Yogavasistha and the Book of Exodus, quantum theory and the origins of calculus, as well as New Mexico icon Georgia O'Keeffe and her art. New this year is East Meets West: Lessons in Leadership from the Classics. Registration opens February 1, 2018 at sjc.edu/summer-classics.

For over 25 years, Summer Classics at St. Johns College in Santa Fe has hosted participants from around the world for weeklong seminars in the best literature, science, history, philosophy and opera that the East and West have to offer. In 2018, three weeks of themed seminars run July 1-6, July 8-13, and July 15-20, and participants choose one, two or all three weeks - an unrivaled intellectual retreat. For a complete list of readings and a schedule for each week, visit http://sjc.edu/summer-classics.

The East Meets West: Lessons in Leadership from the Classics track offers participants a rare opportunity to examine leadership lessons from the past in the context of the present via readings from Plutarch (The Life of Alexander the Great), Confucius (Analects), Sun Tzu (The Art of War), and Machiavelli (The Prince). Participants then apply lessons in leadership to real-world situations through a variety of exercises and activities. Throughout, participants consider the historical and critical contexts that shaped the life and thought of our four authors.

For cinephiles, the Film at Summer Classics track explores the Time of Contrasts theme by surveying film noir over a 60-year period, charting its evolution from its beginnings in the 1940s and 1950s to the neo-noir style it engendered into the 21st century. Students may participate in one, two, or three of the weeks offered.

The Science Institute track draws on St. Johns tradition of teaching science through the discussion of original texts and hands-on experimentation, and requires an acquaintance with high school math and science. Each weeklong session is an intensive immersion in landmark topics and texts. This years topics include quantum theory; the origins of calculus; and mind, complexity and society.

Teens are invited to experience the St. Johns program through Summer Academy, a pre-college residential program for high school students modeled after St. Johns discussion-based, interdisciplinary method of teaching the great books. If desired, teens may attend Summer Academy while parents, grandparents or guardians are enrolled in Summer Classics. For information on Summer Academy, visit http://www.sjc.edu/summer-academy or contact Anne Young at santafe.academy@sjc.edu, 800-331-5232.

Praise from Past Participants

I greatly enjoyed the combination of being in Santa Fe and the intellectual stimulation of the Summer Classics. The afternoons and evenings were free to enjoy field trips, hiking, museums, eating, walking and relaxing! We also hosted family members and our children in our rented house, so the week had many benefits. Highly recommended!

-Lynne Davidson

This was a rich experience. I met interesting, thoughtful people, and the seminars went deep into the text. Both the content and the method of approaching it made a significant difference in my view of the world and how to live in it.

-Tim Ogburn

It is a fantastic event for people who love learning. The true love shines  and the professors were wonderful. The fellow students were diverse with varied intentions but the professors made every conversation illuminating and included all people. Expertly conducted.

-Gwylym Cano

Summer Classics Tuition

Tuition for Summer Classics and Film at Summer Classics tracks is $1,300 per individual seminar. Tuition for the East Meets West and Science Institute tracks is $1,900 per week. A seminar includes a morning series of classes or an afternoon series of classes in a given week. East Meets West and Science Institute seminars include two sessions daily. Individuals registering for two seminars receive a $100 discount on the total cost, and those registering for three or more seminars receive a $250 discount.

Teacher/College Counselor Tuition Assistance

St. Johns College offers a 50 percent tuition discount to a limited number of full-time licensed teachers (K-12). There are also a limited number of college counselor scholarships to introduce St. Johns College to professionals who inform young people about college opportunities.

About the Summer Classics Program and Santa Fe, New Mexico

The Summer Classics program at St. Johns College presents the opportunity to engage in rigorous intellectual conversations on timeless literary, scientific, and artistic works. Princeton Review rated our faculty the second finest in the nation, and these weeklong seminars follow the lauded St. John's seminar approach, with two tutors acting as guidesnot expertsfor groups of 18 or fewer participants. Specialized knowledge of any given work or topic is not required; a passion for learning is.

Because the backgrounds of Summer Classics attendees span regions, cultures, interests, and ages, each seminarregardless of individual focusincorporates contrasting points of view. Everyone is, however, united by a collective commitment to the texts and a respect for the value of conversation.

In keeping with this years theme, St. Johns Santa Fe campus is located in a city of contrasts. Here, a rugged landscape coexists with world-renowned culture, and magnificent light casts bold shadows onto the high desert and its architecture. Santa Fe, the nation's oldest state capital and its second-largest art market, is a vibrant city that consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the United States. An amalgam of the three cultures present and celebrated in New MexicoNative American, Hispanic, and Anglothe city is a magnet for those engaged in creative arts, for intellectuals, and for lovers of outdoor recreation. St. Johns is located minutes from Santa Fes historic downtown plaza and within walking distance of four major museums and the famous Canyon Road art galleries. As in the past, all participants are given the opportunity explore the history, art, culture and world-class dining in Santa Fe, including purchasing group-rate tickets for the Santa Fe Opera, with transportation available from campus.

For more information visit http://www.sjc.edu/summer-classics, email santafe.classics@sjc.edu or call 505-984-6105.

About St. Johns College

St. Johns College holds a distinctive position among American colleges and universities. Its strong commitment to collaborative inquiry and to the study of original texts makes it a particularly vibrant community of learning where close engagement with many of the worlds greatest writers and thinkers  from Homer, Plato, and Euclid to Nietzsche, Einstein, and Woolf  inspire students to grapple with the most fundamental, and essential, of human questions. Located on two campuses in two historic state capitals  Annapolis, Maryland and Santa Fe, New Mexico  St. Johns boasts being the third oldest college in America; has the second highest rated faculty in the nation (Princeton Review); is in the top two percent of all colleges and universities in the nation whose graduates go on to earn PhDs; has been hailed for being the most future-proof college in America by Quartz and for having the courage to be distinct by David Brooks of the New York Times.

St. Johns College offers BA and MA degrees in the liberal arts on both campuses; the Santa Fe campus also offers an MA in the Eastern Classics. More info at http://www.sjc.edu/summer-classics.advinda Investor Cloud GmbH (http://www.advinda.com), today announces that its capital raising app perfectly meets an underserved need for financial technology in the alternative asset space  advinda is the only fintech option that combines CRM with global investor intelligence  contacts for limited partner (LP) decision makers, segmented by region and investor type. advinda delivers real benefits to GPs and investor relations professionals including:



Makes capital raising easier and faster

Helps build relationships and trust with investors

Empowers GPs to use metrics to drive business development decisions

Ensures fund raising compliance

Offers advinda Premium - access to new decision makers of top institutional investors

Thousands of GPs in the alternatives industry still use spreadsheets to keep track of communications with potential investors, commented Eva March, CEO at advinda. This is highly inefficient, non-collaborative, and frankly, there is a better way. advinda now gives these GPs the opportunity to make their capital raising easier, faster, and more productive  all using a single app on any device.

Availability



advinda CRM is available at http://www.advinda.com. Users can add their own contacts in their own private account and start raising capital immediately.

advinda PREMIUM is the institutional investor intelligence - researched, cultivated, maintained and continuously updated - to which customers subscribe and use together with their advinda CRM.

Annual subscriptions to advinda PREMIUM investor intelligence are available in Packages by region, type of institutional investor and AUM thresholds. Users shop for and subscribe to advinda Premium within advinda CRM account via web browser.

Three new advinda Premium Packages (goAsiaPac, goLatAm, and goInvestConsult) now provide contact and AUM details of top tier institutional investors in Asia and Latin America as well as of global alternative investment consultants.

About advinda

advinda started in 2016 with the vision to revolutionize how the global alternative investment industry raises capital. We are an international team of software innovators, researchers, and capital raisers from leading investment placement agent, DC Placement Advisors (DCPLA), with more than 100 years combined experience connecting with institutional investors.

We are passionate about making life easier through transformative technologies and raising capital. We deeply understand the need to have up-to-date institutional investor intelligence together with an easy-to-use solution that manages capital raising activities and keeps track of communications with potential investors.

Thus, advinda was born. We created a new technology company to provide a simple CRM solution combined with proprietary investor intelligence on more than $68 trillion AUM in the cloud. Moreover, when our research team adds contacts and records movements in industry personnel, you have immediate access to these updates. advinda serves capital raisers and investor relations professionals all over the world from its headquarters in Munich, Germany. For more information, visit http://www.advinda.com.

###The partners, associates, and staff of Chappell, Smith & Arden are pleased to share recent firm news. The team of South Carolina personal injury lawyers are experienced in and passionate about giving injured clients the best opportunities for the high standard of legal representation they deserve, and for pursuing the financial compensation they need to make the best recovery possible.

Attorney Bill Smith is working on a book that will serve as a resource for physicians who are working with Workers Compensation patients. Mr. Smith was recently elected as Treasurer for the Workers Injury Law and Advocacy Group (WILG), and was also recently inducted into the College of Workers Compensation Lawyers.

Graham Newman, whose legal career has focused on commercial class actions, contractual litigation, insurance bad faith, and products liability, has been invited to speak at the Pan-European Organization of Personal Injury Lawyers (PEOPIL) conference in Spain this coming June. PEOPIL is the European equivalent of the American Association for Justice (AAJ). Mr. Newmans presentation will cover breast implant litigation.

Attorney Hugh McAngus has been officially inducted as President of the South Carolina Association for Justice (SCAJ). The motto of this esteemed organization is Advocates for Fairness Under the Law. Founded more than 50 years ago by a small group of trial lawyers, the organization has grown to include more than 1,200 members. They remain true to their mission, which is to serve as advocates for those who are harmed by the actions of others - no matter how powerful, wealthy, or well-connected they may be.

The legal team at Chappell, Smith & Arden can be reached at 803-929-3600 or 800-531-9780 for additional information or for a free consultation. You can also learn more about this firm by visiting their website at: https://www.chappellsmitharden.com/.

Their offices are conveniently located throughout South Carolina to represent clients in Aiken County, Florence County, Kershaw County, Lancaster County, Lexington County, Newberry County, Orangeburg County, Richland County, Sumter County, and York County  including those in the towns of Aiken, Chapin, Columbia, Florence, Irmo, Lexington, Newberry, Rock Hill, Spartanburg, and Sumter.

"Like" us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ChappellSmithArden/Patrick Kelly, CFA We are quite pleased the Strategy achieved this milestone and believe its long-term performance is a testament to our people, process, and philosophy.

Fred Alger Management, Inc. (Alger) is pleased to announce the Alger Capital Appreciation Focus Strategy (the Strategy) achieved its five-year performance record at the end of 2017. The Strategy is a focused portfolio of approximately 50 high-conviction, large capitalization stocks managed by Patrick Kelly, CFA, and Dr. Ankur Crawford.

As a focused version of our Capital Appreciation strategy, we invest in fewer, but larger positions of our best ideas, said Mr. Kelly. We create a portfolio of our highest conviction ideas utilizing in-depth research from Algers analyst team. We are quite pleased the Strategy achieved this milestone and believe its long-term performance is a testament to our people, process, and philosophy.

The Strategy has outperformed its benchmark, the Russell 1000 Growth Index, from inception five years ago through 12/31/17. The Strategy also outperformed its benchmark in 2017 by 380 basis points. The Strategy returned 34.0% on a 1-year basis, 13.5% on a 3-year basis, and 18.0% on a five-year basis net of fees as of the end of 2017.

Additionally, the Strategy had very strong risk and return statistics versus its peers in the eVestment U.S. Large Cap Growth Equity universe, as demonstrated by its ranking in the top quintile for Returns (15), Information Ratio (14), Batting Average (6), and Upside Market Capture (9) for the five-year period ended 12/31/17 out of 302 strategies.

We believe investors seeking strong long-term return potential should align themselves with active managers with proven investment philosophies and processes, said Dan Chung, CEO and CIO of Alger. The rigorous, bottom-up research process employed by our investment team enables the portfolio managers across all of our focused strategies to have confidence when constructing a portfolio with fewer holdings.

Alger has expanded its suite of focused portfolios over the past five years. Alger affiliate Weatherbie Capital manages Weatherbie Specialized Growth, a high-conviction, focused portfolio of smaller capitalization growth equities with a 20+ year track record of strong long-term performance. Additionally, in April 2018, Amy Zhang, CFA, will mark her third year managing the Alger Small Cap Focus strategy, which outperformed its benchmark by more than 250 basis points on a net of fees basis as of the end of 2017.

There continues to be significant interest in focused strategies that are meaningfully differentiated from passive index strategies and peers, said Jim Tambone, Executive Vice President, Chief Distribution Officer. We are fortunate to have been entrusted with more than $2 billion of client assets in our focus strategies.

New, Lower Fee Structure

Alger has lowered the fees for institutional clients in separately managed accounts as of January 1, 2018. Under this new fee schedule, fees for Alger Capital Appreciation Focus strategy are 0.55% on the first $50 million of assets under management and 0.40% on assets surpassing $50 million.

Alger also lowered the management fee on the Alger Capital Appreciation Focus Fund from 55 basis points to 52 basis points. The Fund is available in an institutional share class (no load Z share) or Class Y shares, which are generally available to qualified and non-qualified retirement plans and do not have distribution or shareholder service fees.

Furthermore, the Funds voluntary total expense ratio has been lowered for Class Z shares (to 68 basis points) and for Class Y shares (to 65 basis points).

The combination of the Strategy achieving its five-year record, its strong relative performance, and an even more attractive fee schedule makes this Strategy a compelling large cap option for investors, said Tambone.

Portfolio Manager Biographies

Patrick Kelly, CFA

Mr. Kelly, an 18-year veteran of the firm, began his career at Alger as a Research Associate and completed Algers in-house analyst training program. In September of 2001 Mr. Kelly was promoted to Senior Analyst, responsible for the Technology sector. Mr. Kelly was named portfolio manager of the Alger Capital Appreciation and Alger Spectra strategies in September 2004, and was named as head of the strategies in 2015.

Dr. Ankur Crawford

Dr. Crawford joined Alger in 2004 and completed the Firms in-house training program. Dr. Crawford was named portfolio manager of the Alger Mid Cap Growth strategy in 2010 and named portfolio manager on the Capital Appreciation Focus strategy in 2015. Additionally, she was Head of the Technology sector team from January 2013  April 2016. Dr. Crawford is also portfolio manager of the Alger Capital Appreciation, Alger Spectra, and Alger 25 strategies.

About Alger

Founded in 1964, Alger is widely recognized as a pioneer of growth-style investment management. Headquartered in New York City with affiliate offices in Boston and London, Alger provides U.S. and non-U.S. institutional investors and financial advisors access to a suite of growth equity separate accounts, mutual funds, and privately offered investment vehicles. The firms investment philosophy, discovering companies undergoing Positive Dynamic Change, has been in place for over 50 years. In March 2017, Weatherbie Capital, LLC, a Boston-based investment adviser specializing in small and mid cap growth equity investing, became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alger. For more information, please visit http://www.alger.com.

Past performance is not an indication or guarantee of future results. A complete list and description of Fred Alger Management, Inc. composites and performance results is available upon request: 800.223.3810 or http://www.alger.com.

Risk Disclosures: Investing in the stock market involves gains and losses and may not be suitable for all investors. Growth stocks tend to be more volatile than other stocks as the prices of growth stocks tend to be higher in relation to their companies earnings and may be more sensitive to market, political, and economic developments. Investing in companies of all capitalizations involves the risk that smaller, newer issuers may have limited product lines or financial resources, or lack of management depth.

Alger Capital Appreciation Focus Fund, Class Z, returned 34.10% on a 1-year basis, 13.41% on a 3-year basis, and 17.82% on a five-year basis; and Class Y, returned 23.10% on a 1-year basis, as of the end of 2017.

The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is not an indication or a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investors shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. For performance current to the most recent month end, visit http://www.alger.com or call 800.992.3863.

Effective January 1, 2018, Fred Alger Management, Inc. has contractually agreed to reimburse Fund expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage, and extraordinary expenses) through February 28, 2019 to the extent necessary to limit the total annual Fund operating expenses of Class Y to 0.65% and Class Z to 0.68% of the class average daily net assets. During the period prior to January 1, 2018, the total annual Fund operating expenses for Class Z had been limited to 0.95%. This Agreement may only be amended or terminated prior to its expiration date by agreement between FAM and Funds Board of Trustees, and will terminate automatically in the event of termination of the Investment Advisory Agreement. Fred Alger Management, Inc. may, during the one-year term of the expense reimbursement contract, recoup any expenses waived or reimbursed pursuant to the expense reimbursement contract to the extent that such recoupment would not cause the expense ratio to exceed the lesser of the stated limitation in effect at the time of (i) the waiver or reimbursement and (ii) the recoupment.

Before investing, carefully consider the Funds investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses. For a prospectus or summary prospectus containing this and other information about the Fund, call (800) 992-3863, visit http://www.alger.com, or consult your financial advisor. Read it carefully before investing.

Distributor: Fred Alger & Company, Incorporated. Member NYSE Euronext, SIPC.

NOT FDIC INSURED. NOT BANK GUARANTEED MAY LOSE VALUE.The KOEZ designation, and the accessibility of Bristol Commerce Center yards from the PA Turnpike (I- 276), makes our expanding site a uniquely appealing option for tenants.

Herring Properties announced that walls are already up on a high tech new 80,000 SF warehouse at 2151 Green Lane, part of the 81-acre Bristol Commerce Center (BCC). The new facility, to be completed this spring, will be the fourth building at BCC.

With 30-foot clear height and ESFR sprinkler, the modern building is divisible for up to three tenants. Herring already has plans underway to break ground later this year on another free-standing building on a 250,000 SF pad within its fast-growing BCC campus.

Located strategically at the crossroads of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, the New Jersey Turnpike, I-95 and Route 1, 2151 Green Lane is the only new building on the market in Bucks County for companies seeking new light manufacturing, distribution and warehouse space. Owned by a partnership run by Herring Properties, the BCC campus is one of only a few in Bucks County to receive official KOEZ designation from the State of Pennsylvania.

We are excited to move forward with this modern and flexible warehouse on our well-situated campus, said Jamie Herring, Bristol Commerce Centers Owner/Developer. The KOEZ designation, and the accessibility of Bristol Commerce Center yards from the PA Turnpike (I- 276), makes our expanding site a uniquely appealing option for tenants.

Prospective tenants will join Airgas Safety, Goodyear Tire Company, Pet Valu, XPO Logistics, DS Waters and Turtle and Hughes in taking advantage of the sites Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zone (KOEZ) designation.

In addition to the KOEZ tax benefits, strategic location, and flexible uses, the park is equipped with data center power capacity making it ideal for data center users who require power, connectivity and location. Moreover, permits and approvals and pads are in place for all the proposed buildings, cutting about one year off the project time.

About Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones Benefits

Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones (KOEZ) are geographic areas that are virtually free of state and local taxes, providing businesses with one of the most powerful market-based incentives eliminating taxes. These include up to 100% abatement of state taxes such as corporate next income tax, personal income tax and sales and use tax and local taxes such as sales tax, and property tax. A KOEZ is also given priority for various state and local community-building assistance programs. The designation will run through 2022.

Background - Bristol Commerce Center

This property was formerly a 400,000 square foot factory owned by 3M. Herring Properties acquired it in 2002 and redeveloped it as a multi-tenant commerce park. Four additional lots were subdivided and an additional 640,000 square feet of industrial space was approved. The property has maintained 100% occupancy of existing buildings from shortly after completion. Colliers Internationals Andrew McGhee is the exclusive leasing agent for Bristol Commerce Center.

About Herring Properties

Herring Properties, and its affiliates, have owned, developed and managed over 1,500,000 SF of space in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York. The principal, Jamie Herring, has over 30 years of real estate experience in these markets. In addition to Bristol Commerce Center, which includes a 400,000 SF industrial renovation and over 600,000 SF of development land, the partnership owns an industrial building in Newtown, Pa, an office parcel on intersection of I-95 and Scotch Road in Ewing, New Jersey. Herring has also redeveloped two buildings totaling 63,000 SF in downtown Princeton on the former site of Princeton Hospital, and leased to a range of tenants including a venture capital company, medical offices, financial firm mixed with retail uses such as a new restaurant, gym and Yoga studio. For more information visit http://www.herringproperties.com.The Childrens Emergency Hospital "Louis Turcanu" (Spitalul Clinic de Urgenta pentru Copii Louis Turcanu), in Timisoara, is the first hospital in Clinerions PRS network which specializes in pediatric care, opening up PRS to more expert research in the field.

The "Louis Turcanu" hospital is the leading pediatric healthcare facility in Western Romania. Founded in 1903, it offers a variety of professional activities covering the full range of pediatric specialties. It has more than 500 beds and 8 principal investigators running more than 20 clinical studies per year.

By joining Clinerions PRS platform, the "Louis Turcanu" hospital will benefit from improved access to leading-edge sponsored clinical trials run by international pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations. The hospitals investigators will reap huge time savings during site evaluation and when screening for eligible patients for studies. Their patients will gain early access to innovative medication and more options for treatments. They will also benefit from PRS ability to query their own patient database with complex criteria via a simple web interface without compromising patient privacy.

Our hospital has a long history of leadership in childrens health and we continue to contribute to the development of pediatric medicine by running studies for clinical research. PRS offers us exposure to more research which is innovative and international in scale, says Dr. Adam Ovidiu, Manager of Louis Turcanu.

The beauty of Clinerions network is that we are able to propose trial sites around the world and with a plethora of specializations to sponsors. We are thrilled to add the Childrens Emergency Hospital "Louis Turcanu" and its expert pediatric clinicians to PRS, says Ulf Claesson, CEO of Clinerion.

About Clinerion

Clinerion enables early patient access to innovative treatments through solutions for clinical trial patient recruitment, real-world evidence, and market access. Clinerion's PRS accelerates clinical research by radically improving the efficiency and effectiveness of trial recruitment. Clinerions key patient data services include data-assisted protocol optimization, site feasibility evaluation and patient identification. Clinerions solutions allow member hospitals to participate in leading-edge, industry-sponsored trials and save time in patient recruitment. They enable pharmaceutical companies to gain time and save costs by streamlining operations and leveraging strategic intelligence. Clinerions proprietary Big Data analytics technologies leverage real-time data from electronic health records which remain under the full control of participating hospitals. Clinerion is a global data technology service company headquartered in Switzerland. Clinerion's solutions comply with international patient privacy and data security regulations.

Clinerion website: http://www.clinerion.com

Clinerions PRS: http://www.clinerion.com/index/OverviewOurSolutions/PatientRecruitmentSystem

For more information, please contact:

Le Vin Chin

Head of Marketing and Communications

Clinerion Ltd

Margarethenstrasse 47, CH-4053 Basel, Switzerland

Tel.: +41 61 865 60 54

media(at)clinerion.comI was thrilled to take this truly dramatic role in which I had the opportunity to stretch and grow, said Postiglione. The intensity and the magnitude of each scene was not always in the dialogue, but rather in what was not said.

Ross Schriftman, producer and screenwriter of My Million Dollar Mom, is pleased to announce the leading cast members for his film that addresses the issue of a mothers growing dementia condition and the son who must make a difficult decision between career and family.

Based on the book of the same name by Ross Schriftman, My Million Dollar Mom is a film about a mother diagnosed with Alzheimers just as her son is offered his last chance to be elected to Congress. He must decide between his life-long dream and his moms wishes to remain in her home under his care.

Pete Postiglione, portrays Ross Schriftman, and is offered a chance to run for Congress just as his mother, Shirley, is diagnosed with Alzheimers disease. Postiglione is a Philadelphia native who has appeared in film and television shows such as Silver Linings Playbook and The West Wing and was nominated for an Emmy for hosting Dig Philly which is produced by NBC/Universal. I was thrilled to take this truly dramatic role in which I had the opportunity to stretch and grow, said Postiglione. The intensity and the magnitude of each scene was not always in the dialogue, but rather in what was not said.

Susan Moses portrays Shirley Schrftman, Ross mother. Moses has appeared in Invincible and played Schmittys mother in Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia. She has been a guest host on QVC and taught voice and movement at the University of Miami.

I was overwhelmed by the richness of Shirleys life and the countless people she touched with her incredible goodness, love of life and her undying spirit, said Moses.

Other cast members include:

Currie Graham, who portrays the Governor of Pennsylvania. Graham has appeared in television shows including Ten Days in the Valley, Murder in the First, Chicago P.D., Westworld, NYPD Blue, Suddenly Susan and House M.D.

Christopher Mann, who portrays Marvin Stern, a political mentor to Ross. Mann has appeared in films such as Loving and in numerous television shows including The Wire and Law and Order.

Patsy Meck, who portrays Gladys, Shirleys best friend. Meck has appeared in films such as Silver Linings Playbook and American Hustle.

Hayden Saunier, portrays the state party chairperson. Saunier has appeared in films such as The Sixth Sense and television shows such as House of Cards.

Tim Daly, portrays Chuck, Ross friend and younger co-worker. Daly has appeared in films such as Dragon.

Volieda "Vee" Webb, protrays Annie, a care giver for Shirley. Webb has appeared in films such as American Hustle and Silver Linings Playbook.

It is thrilling to have such a talented team of actors to help bring my mother Shirleys story to life, said Schriftman. The book and film have been a labor of love for me and Im gratified to see all the pieces come together into something that can be used to show the world that people with Alzheimers truly have something to give.

The film is scheduled to be released in the Spring of 2018 in conjunction with Mothers Day. To learn more about the film, visit http://www.mymilliondollarmom.com.

About My Million Dollar Mom

Based on the book of the same name by Ross Schriftman, My Million Dollar Mom is a film about a mother diagnosed with Alzheimers just as her son is offered his last chance to be elected to Congress. He must decide between his life-long dream and his moms wishes to remain in her home under his care. The script for the feature film was selected as a semi-finalist in Story Pros' screenwriting contest in the drama category.

Schriftmans production company was accepted as a member of the Filmmakers Collaborative, a non-profit that assists independent filmmakers with documentaries and dramas that promote causes such as dementia awareness.

More information can be found at http://www.mymilliondollarmom.com and http://www.facebook.com/mymilliondollarmom or by contacting Ross Schriftman at mymilliondollarmom(at)gmail(dot)com.

Editors Note: Interviews are available with Ross Schriftman and members of the films cast. To schedule an interview, please contact Debbie Goetz Media Connections at 215-630-5408 or email Debbie Goetz at dgoetz(at)dgmediaconnections(dot)com.DistillerAI promises to change the way systematic reviews are done, forever.

Researchers who have bemoaned the time and resources required to produce a high quality systematic review can now take advantage of a groundbreaking artificial intelligence-based screening assistant when using market leading DistillerSR systematic review software.

The screening assistant, called DistillerAI, was launched this week as part of the latest update to DistillerSR.

DistillerAI promises to change the way systematic reviews are done, forever, said Peter OBlenis, President of Evidence Partners. The integration of a robust AI platform represents a sea change in review methodology that will allow researchers to produce important evidence faster and with higher quality.

DistillerAI offers several ways to improve speed and accuracy in the systematic review process. It can:



Sort and rank references by their likelihood of inclusion

Be the second screener after one pass by a human reviewer

Conduct post-review audits to flag possible inclusion or exclusion errors

Complete the screening process based on learning from how humans have reviewed a subset of references

To maximize efficiency, DistillerAI learns to make accurate inclusion or exclusion decisions by monitoring human reviewers in the background as they work through the screening process. Once DistillerAI has learned enough to make confident decisions, it becomes available to assist in the screening process.

To test the power of DistillerAI, Evidence Partners is currently working with a number of research groups to benchmark the performance of the tool against that of human reviewers.

"Given the time and cost associated with the review process today, we need more efficient ways to conduct systematic reviews, said Dr. Annette OConnor, Professor of Epidemiology at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University. AI is going to play an important role in the evolution of how reviews are conducted. It will help us speed up the translation of research to end-users, so we can realize the value of research findings sooner.Norwegian, the Worlds Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline and Airline of the Year 2017, was today named Value Airline of the Year by Air Transport World, the leading monthly magazine for the airline industry, and will receive the award at the ATW Airline Industry Achievement Awards on March 28.

I sincerely congratulate CEO Bjrn Kjos and the entire team at Norwegian for this well-deserved Award. The global panel of judges were highly impressed with Norwegians achievements and entrepreneurial spirit. Norwegian has truly shaken up the all-important transatlantic market, introducing quality service at low prices, and demonstrating that long-haul can be done at low cost, said ATW Editor-in-Chief Karen Walker.

To be named Value Airline of the Year is a major accomplishment for the entire Norwegian team - and I am extremely proud of all our dedicated employees. Our airline was founded on the premise that everyone should be able to afford to fly, and with each new market we enter, we are able to demonstrate Norwegians value and offer even more people affordable fares and high-quality service, said Bjrn Kjos, CEO and Founder of Norwegian.

The ATW Airline Industry Achievement Awards recognize excellence across a broad range of airline operations and are widely considered the most coveted in the aviation industry. The 44th ATW Awards will be presented on March 27, 2018 in Dublin, Ireland.

During 2017, the worlds fastest-growing airline launched 25 new routes out of the United States. Upcoming launches from the U.S. include: New York/Newark to Paris (February 28); Chicago to London (March 25); Austin to London (Mach 27); Denver to Paris (April 9); Oakland/San Francisco to Paris (April 10); Boston to Paris (May 2); New York/JFK to Amsterdam (May 7); Los Angeles to Milan (June 18); Los Angeles to Madrid (July 16); and New York/JFK to Madrid (July 18).

Travelers are able to purchase tickets on Norwegians website, which also includes a low fare calendar that displays the lowest available fares to all of Norwegians destinations.

About Norwegian:

Norwegian is the worlds sixth largest low-cost airline and carried 33 million passengers in 2017. The airline operates more than 500 routes to over 150 destinations in Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Thailand, Caribbean and the U.S. Norwegian has a fleet of 150 aircraft, with an average age of 3.6 years, making it one of the worlds youngest and greenest fleets. Norwegian was named the Most Fuel-Efficient Airline on Transatlantic Routes by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT). Norwegian was named the Worlds Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline by the renowned SkyTrax World Airline Awards in for the past three years, and for the fifth consecutive year, named Europes Best Low-Cost Airline. Norwegian employs approximately 9,000 people. Follow @Fly_Norwegian on Twitter, join the discussion on Facebook and keep up with our adventures on Instagram. For more information on Norwegian and its network, visit norwegian.com.

Media Contact:

Norwegian US Corporate Communications

PressUSA@norwegian.comC&S Wholesale Grocers announces the fifteenth anniversary of Mini Grants, a donation program to help small, community-based nonprofits thrive and make an impact. Since the commencement of the Mini Grants program, C&S has awarded over $1.4 million in cash and contributions of food to more than 2,300 groups.

Through Mini Grants, C&S invests in local good works by donating funds or modest amounts of food. The funds, up to $1,000, are used to support organizations general operations or special projects. The donated food is often used at events, such as volunteer training sessions, appreciation celebrations or other activities to raise awareness and funds.

The C&S Mini Grant program focuses on nonprofits located in our backyard, concentrating on groups located within 20 miles of C&S facilities and where its employees live.

Small grants can make a big difference. Thats why, each year, C&S awards Mini Grants to nonprofits and charitable organizations in our communities, said Gina Goff, Senior Director of Community Involvement. These grants go to small groups that meet important local needs.

Requests for support are reviewed by teams of non-executive C&S employees, which is key to the Mini Grant programs impact. The program empowers employees to make decisions and helps the company participate in making communities stronger. Mini Grants are aligned with the companys philanthropic pillars which include Eliminating Hunger, Supporting Children and Community, the Environment, and Volunteerism.

Applications for Mini Grants are accepted electronically through the companys website: http://community.cswg.com/en/grants-sponsorships/mini-grants/. Partial lists of funded organizations are shown in the annual C&S Community Involvement Report: http://community.cswg.com/en/cs-cares/community-involvement-reports/ (Note: the 2017 edition of the Community Involvement Report will be published in the spring.)

ABOUT C&S WHOLESALE GROCERS, INC.

C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc., based in Keene, NH, is the largest wholesale grocery supply company in the U.S. and the industry leader in supply chain innovation. Founded in 1918 as a supplier to independent grocery stores, C&S now services customers of all sizes, supplying more than 14,000 independent supermarkets, chain stores, military bases, and institutions with over 140,000 different products. To learn more, please visit http://cswg.com.

C&S community involvement programs support initiatives to fight hunger and to promote the health and enrichment of communities that are homes to the company's employees and facilities. To learn more, please visit http://community.cswg.com.Wayback Burgers, Americas favorite hometown burger joint and one of the nations fastest growing burger franchises, has announced a new master franchise agreement that paves the way for expansion into the Netherlands and Northwestern Europe.

Stefan Boers and Jesse Heinhuis are the two Dutch businessmen bringing Wayback Burgers to the Netherlands. Stefan has extensive background in the food service industry, rising through the ranks at McDonalds, first as a crewmember at the age of 16, up to general manager of a location. Jesse earned his stripes in retail management.

The pair is excited to bring Americas favorite hometown burger joint to the Netherlands. Jesse says the quality and experience Wayback Burgers delivers will be welcomed with open arms.

The Netherlands is a small country, but its filled with people with good taste, says Jesse. The restaurant business has never been more alive, and it continues to grow stronger. We are entering a market containing strong competitors, but we are defining ourselves with great food, great service and beautiful and modern restaurants. We are forward thinking and highly adaptive, closely following the movements in the food industry and the environment, both of which are very important to the Dutch guests.

The pair were looking for entrepreneurial opportunities when they discovered Wayback Burgers. Stefan says Wayback Burgers spectacular food and corporate culture perfectly aligned with their values.

From the point of first contact, the connection we had with (Wayback Burgers Executive Vice-President) Bill Chemero was remarkable, said Stefan. We decided to travel to the USA for a discovery day and taste the food which helped influence our decision. We had a discovery day and we were welcomed by the organization and the nice people in the corporate headquarters. When we combined the good food and the good people, the choice was an easy one to make.

Wayback Burgers Director of International Development, Jason Murawski, is excited about the growth in Europe. He says Stefan and Jesse are working hard to open new restaurants via area developer agreements in areas throughout the Netherlands.

We are excited to work with Stefan and Jesse in the Netherlands, said Murawski. With their experience in food and retail, we know they have what it takes to manage Wayback Burgers expansion in Europe. Plus, we know they are committed to bring the best food and deliver excellent experiences to the Dutch people.

For more information about Wayback Burgers, please visit https://waybackburgers.com/.

For more information about Wayback Burgers franchise opportunities, please visit https://franchise.waybackburgers.com/.

About Wayback Burgers

Founded in 1991 in Newark, DE, Wayback Burgers is a Connecticut-based fast-casual franchise with a reputation for cooked to order burgers and thick, hand-dipped milkshakes, served in an environment that hearkens back to a simpler place and timewhen customer service meant something and everyone felt the warmth of the community.

Wayback Burgers currently operates in 28 states with over 148 locations nationally and internationally in Argentina, Brunei, Morocco, Sudan, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia. Through its executed master franchise agreements, Wayback Burgers plans to open in 37 provinces/countries in the Middle East, Northern Africa, South Africa, Argentina, Pakistan, Bangladesh; Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, Canada; and the Netherlands, with pending letters of intent sent out to Ireland, Western Germany and the UK.

For more information about Wayback Burgers, please go to https://waybackburgers.com/.

For franchising information about Wayback Burgers, please go to https://franchise.waybackburgers.com/.The question of nature versus nurture has been fundamental to addressing lifetime behaviors and medical conditions. International pediatrician Dr. Meena Chintapalli is finally giving readers and parents an answer.

Nurture through multisensory integration is essential to prevent destructive behaviors, learning disorders and health risk behaviors among youth. Dr. Chintapalli guides parents in creating pathways for better states, traits in children with Early Brain Sprouts from States to Traits: A Universal Curriculum Parents Guide for Nurture 0-5 Years.

Early Brain Sprouts from States to Traits enlightens readers about experiences in child development to assure physical, intellectual, psychological, social, and emotional health that will act as a foundation in the maturity and growth of the hidden mind and personality development. Dr. Chintapalli features universal curriculum parents can utilize to combat common long-term health complications such as: ADHD, depression, anxiety and underachievement, autism spectrum behaviors and teen health risk behaviors.

This award-winning pediatrician helps parents protect and foster the inherent qualities  happiness, peace, inquiry, robust memory, persistence, motivation, love, sympathy, empathy  found naturally in all children at birth. She encourages readers to cultivate an environment of nurture with love, from inexpensive household gadgets to provide positive life experiences and cognitive associations.

Many might blame genes for bad behavior, but I have seen cases where a mom and an infant share DNA, but the child has ADHD or autism, Dr. Chintapalli said. The catalyst of this variation is not in nature but development. Early Brain Sprouts from States to Traits is the nurturing guide every parent should read.

For more information, please visit earlybrainsproutsnurturewellness.com.

Early Brain Sprouts from States to Traits: A Curriculum Guide for Nurture 0-5 Years

By Meena Chintapalli, M.D., F.A.A.P.

ISBN: 9781543419153 (hardcover) 9781543419160 (softcover) 9781543419177 (ebook)

Available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Xlibris

About the author

Dr. Meena Chintapalli did her pediatrics residency in Washington D.C, Ambulatory Fellowship of University of Michigan. She started her own practice in 1983 in San Antonio, Texas before relocating. Over her career, Dr. Chintapalli has held many positions such as creating quality assurance programs for Insurance companies and chaired as pediatrics director for neuropsychiatric facility. She won a Woman of the Year award in 1995 by San Antonio Mayors committee. In 2008, she received the award for Professional Excellence and Leadership from A.M.A. and in 2010, was chosen as the World Physician. Dr. Chintapalli is a Spiritual leader and serves through volunteer work at a battered womans shelter, jail district, Salvation Army, Boysville, Bexar County Detention Center, childrens shelter and many medical missions. Dr. Chintapalli has penned multiple texts on brain nurture and multi-sensory integration from body-mind-soul connection.

###

Review Copies & Interview Requests:

LAVIDGE  Phoenix

Jacquelyn Brazzale

480 998 2600 x 569

jbrazzale(at)lavidge(dot)comOur partnership with Schneider Electric will help us prepare our students and facilities for the future and supports our commitment to long-term sustainability.

The Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) today announced a partnership with energy and sustainability expert Schneider Electric to dramatically improve energy efficiency throughout its facilities and enhance STEM education programs. Through the partnership, Schneider Electric will implement a wide range of infrastructure improvement projects to support the districts commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability as well as its mission to prepare students for success in an ever-changing world. In total, the project will generate $5.3 million in energy and operational savings.

School districts in California and beyond are under tremendous pressure to responsibly preserve budget dollars while also enhancing the educational experience for students, said Kathleen Neff, CA K-12 Account Executive, Schneider Electric. We are proud to support PUSD and its mission in developing 21st century skills that will help students make a positive impact locally and globally, while also creating facilities that let students maximize their full potential.

As part of the partnership, teachers from PUSDs Washington STEAM Magnet Academy will participate in the National Institute for STEM Educations certification program to earn the National Certificate for STEM Teaching & Excellence. This nationally recognized program provides districts, teachers and students with curriculum and professional development tools to develop tomorrows STEM leaders. This certification program is provided through Schneider Electrics partnership with STEMscopes, a provider of online, hands-on STEM curriculum.

Our partnership with Schneider Electric will help us prepare our students and facilities for the future and supports our commitment to long-term sustainability. We are excited to embark on this innovative project that infuses STEM education skills with critical facilities improvements, said Brian McDonald, Superintendent, Pasadena Unified School District. This makes the most of our resources so that we can deliver high quality educational choices that prepare our graduates for success in college and careers.

The project is being delivered through an energy savings performance contract (ESPC) which uses projected energy savings to pay for projects over time. This model helps school districts implement facilities improvements and initiatives they otherwise might not be able to afford, including expanded STEM programs.

Energy efficiency improvements will take place at the Eliot Arts Magnet Academy and Marshall Fundamental Secondary School. Savings will come from a wide variety of energy conservation measures including:



Interior and exterior LED lighting upgrades with occupancy sensors and automated dimming controls

Building automation system upgrades

Utility meter upgrades with user-friendly energy dashboards

HVAC, chiller and fan coil valve equipment replacements

Wireless plug load management

The project leverages funding secured through the Proposition 39 Clean Energy Jobs Act (Prop 39) and Measure TT, the districts local bond.

Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by summer 2018. A majority of construction will take place during winter and summer breaks to minimize the impact on students, faculty and staff.

This project builds on Schneider Electrics expertise in advancing school districts goals with Prop 39 projects in California. In addition to the work underway at PUSD, Schneider Electric has completed similar projects with districts including Santa Paula Unified School District, Capistrano Unified School District, San Marcos Unified School District, Laguna Beach Unified School District, Bear Valley Unified School District and more. Across the state of California, Schneider Electric has helped school districts secure more than $48 million in Prop 39 grants over the past four years.

Over the past 25 years, Schneider Electric has successfully implemented more than 675 ESPC projects across the nation, saving its clients nearly $2 billion. This project delivery method helps publicly funded entities make capital improvements over longer payback periods and offers many long-term benefits such as improved facility efficiency, occupant comfort, financial management and environmental protection.

For more information on how Schneider Electric helps K-12 schools tackle their top priorities with energy efficiency, please visit http://www.enable.schneider-electric.com.

-XXX-

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is leading the Digital Transformation of Energy Management and Automation in Homes, Buildings, Data Centers, Infrastructure and Industries. With global presence in over 100 countries, Schneider is the undisputable leader in Power Management  Medium Voltage, Low Voltage and Secure Power, and in Automation Systems. We provide integrated efficiency solutions, combining energy, automation and software. In our global Ecosystem, we collaborate with the largest Partner, Integrator and Developer Community on our Open Platform to deliver real-time control and operational efficiency. We believe that great people and partners make Schneider a great company and that our commitment to Innovation, Diversity and Sustainability ensures that Life Is On everywhere, for everyone and at every moment.

http://www.schneider-electric.us

Hashtags: #SchneiderElectric #PasadenaUSD #STEM #Prop39 #EnergyEfficiency #LifeIsOn #DigitalEconomyWe had a large pool of outstanding applicants for these scholarships. Those written by Sydney and Dean really stood out and were thrilled to help them as they pursue their higher education.

Feldco Windows, Siding and Doors is excited to announce the winners of its 2018 scholarship contest. Current or prospective college students were eligible for the $1,000 scholarship which challenged them to answer the question How has your family contributed to who you are today?

Feldco awarded two winners who best exemplified Feldcos family values in their essays. Sydney Kunkel of Lexington, IL and Dean Farmer of Goshen, KY were chosen from the 1,300 applicants nationwide.

Sydney is excited to be entering her freshman year in the fall of 2018 at Loras College located in Dubuque, Iowa. At Loras, Sydney will continue to play softball and major in biology with the hopes of becoming a dentist. Sydneys portrayal of how each of her family members shaped her life impressed the judges. Overall, the Feldco scholarship application was a good experience, said Sydney. It was easy to apply and I enjoyed writing on this topic.

Dean will also be a freshman this coming fall and will pursue studies in international politics. Having applied to several schools, Dean is currently deciding which option best suites his academic and career goals. The Feldco Scholarship Committee was inspired by Deans passionate narrative of his family history and how each generation has guided his life. In his reflection on the Feldco scholarship, Dean states, It was interesting to write such a meaningful essay. This topic made me think about how much my entire family has impacted my life.

Feldco places a great emphasis on education and community outreach. From time and product donated to Habitat for Humanity and scholarships such as these, Feldco is committed to giving back. The scholarship committee thoroughly enjoyed reviewing all of the applications. Patti Freko, Vice President of Marketing, stated We had a large pool of outstanding applicants for these scholarships. Those written by Sydney and Dean really stood out and were thrilled to help them as they pursue their higher education.

Feldco congratulates Sydney and Dean on their wins. Submission is open now through June 15th, 2018 for Feldcos next scholarship contest.

For more information on the Feldco scholarship, please visit 4feldco.com/scholarship.

***

Feldco is the Midwests leading replacement window, siding and door replacement specialist. Founded in 1976, the company is focused on delighting customers by making home improvement projects simple. With premium products, factory-direct pricing and certified installers, Feldco provides an excellent overall value and experience for over 350,000 customers. The company offers free in-home demonstrations and lifetime product warranties. Feldco serves all of Central and Northern Illinois, Northwest Indiana, Southern and Northeast Wisconsin and Eastern Iowa. Feldco has showrooms in Chicago, Des Plaines, Rockford, and Peoria, Illinois, Madison, Cudahy and Menasha, Wisconsin and Davenport, Iowa. Please visit Feldco's website or contact the company's Communication Center (866-4FELDCO or 708-437-4000) to learn more about Feldco's products and services.Jamie Lauren, Pres/Designer, Jamie Lauren Designs takes order for her oversized Peruvian Manta ottoman from Buyer at NYNOW Design Show "The reaction to our new Spring Collection was fantastic," says Jamie Lauren, Pres/Designer of Jamie Lauren Designs, "we picked up 15 new clients." Lauren's custom one-of-a-kind products include handbags, vibrant ottomans and small furnishings made from authentic textiles from around the world.

The reaction to our Spring Collection was fantastic, says Jamie Lauren, president and chief designer of Jamie Lauren Designs, (http://www.JamieLaurenDesigns.com) a company she founded three years ago. This is Laurens third season attending the NYNow show where her products were presented in Handmade Global Design. We picked up 15 new retail customers, says Lauren, which includes a mix of large and small speciality boutique retailers from across the country.

From oversized shoulder bags, finished with her signature hand-braided leather handle, to stunning oversize round and square ottomans, and colorful one-of-a-kind throw pillows - perfect for any room in the house. Laurens vibrant and clever transformation of traditional textiles into modern day pieces has caught the attention of buyers, retailers and consumers. In fact, Jamie Lauren products have been featured in Architectural Digest, Boulder and Cherry Creek Lifestyle Magazines, and other fashion and furniture industry media.

The seven day, two country scouting trip paid off, says Lauren, referring to her recent sourcing expedition in December where she trekked to remote villages in Peru and Guatemala in search of these hand-made fabrics. Back at her design studio, Lauren reimagines and transforms each piece into simply stunning creations hand-crafted by a team of talented artisans.

RETAILERS COAST-TO-COAST

Laurens products are carried in 18 states, such as California, Colorado, Florida, Sante Fe, NY, and Connecticut , among others, by retailers such as ABC Home, Jayson Home, Lost and Found Shop, The Little Nell, Perez Art Museum, Annyx, and BD Jeffries.

New clients obtained at the NYNOW show include the following:

The Island Store - Bahamas

True - Denver, CO

Lost and Found Shop- Hollywood and Santa Monica, CA

Pure Soul Living - Puerto Rico

Hunter Gatherer - Napa Valley, CA

Beach House - Laguna Beach, CA

Leslie Flynt - Santa Fe, NM

Oliver Dunn - Washington, DC

Golden & Pine - Kansas City, MO

Town House - Darien, CT

Great House- Summit, NJ

Sev & Co. - New Hope, PA

Robin Gannon Interiors- Lexington, MA

Anichini - Vermont

Huetopia- Atlanta, GA

REPEAT CUSTOMER ORDERS

ABC Home - NYC and Brooklyn

FrangiPani - Miami, FL

Annyx - Sag Harbor, NY

Mandala Yoga - Amagansett, NY

Chez Suzette - Mexico

Found For the Home - Houston, TX

Perez Museum - Miami, FL

BD Jeffries - Atlanta, GA

Frank - Winter Park, FL

Clutch- Rye, NY

JAMIE LAUREN DESIGNS - SPRING COLLECTION PREVIEW GALLERY:

http://www.jamielaurendesigns.com/spring-release

ABOUT JAMIE LAUREN DESIGNS

Jamie Lauren Designs produces quality hand-crafted original accessories and small home furnishings for everyday enjoyment that go well beyond every day style. Unique and wonderfully unexpected, Jamie Lauren Designs brings a fresh and inspiring look that complements a wide range of style and decor from rustic to urban and in between. Handbags, accessories, pillows and other small home furnishings are hand-made with fabric and leather from around the world to bring you storied traditions in a modern day style.



ABOUT THE ARTIST

East Coast native turned Colorado entrepreneur, Jamie left corporate work to pursue her creative spirit. Inspired by the creative process, motivated by constant learning and energized by bold color, Jamie enjoys pairing the beauty of old traditions with fresh new ideas to produce results that are wonderfully unexpected. She lives with her husband, two young children, and golden retriever Boulder, Colorado, a community known for its entrepreneurial and artistic nature.



Editors Note: High quality images of all products available.

http://www.JamieLaurenDesigns.com

Link to Spring Collection Gallery:

Media Contact: Jeff Mustard: 954-801-8263 | jeff(at)thebambooagency(dot)comWe are introducing a new paradigm for the community to own assets collectively. A true sharing economy model.

Radical blockchain startup Crowdvilla, which recently launched with aims to democratise real estate ownership worldwide, are announcing their industry-leading line up of advisors today.

Were thrilled to reveal our new board of advisors and look forward to utilising their expertise and guidance as we work to decentralise the concentration of property ownership worldwide, said Darvin Kurniawan Co-Founder and CEO of Crowdvilla.

Joining to the team is Paul Chen, Achim Jedelsky and John Dean Markunas, who collectively bring their decades of experience in the real estate industry, and a refined knowledge that spans across the Asian, European and American markets.

These three new advisors will help Crowdvilla transform the global sharing economy and craft a new paradigm of community-driven home sharing.

Crowdvilla will allow users to book holiday accommodation with one key difference to an ordinary travel booking site - all of the homes on the platform would be shared by the community itself.

The concept of a true sharing economy, which is driven by trust, altruism and community spirit, and not profits, is relatively unexplored.

Crowdvillas non-profit, community-driven business model will merge real world assets with the power of blockchain technology to ensure anyone can own and have access to real estate. Crowdvilla will use its funds to build a portfolio of homes across the globe that its family of users will own themselves and share among each other using the platform.

Mr Paul Chen joins as Crowdvillas Asian Markets Advisors. He is the Hong Kong Chapter Head for the International Blockchain Real Estate Association (IBREA). He also sits on AsiaProp.Tech advisory board, and heads RealFoundations in Asia, where he works with large real estate enterprises to optimise their operating platforms.

Multibillion-dollar companies dominate the global sharing economy landscape with brands that empower users to trade personal goods and services for profit. I am pleased to join the Crowdvilla team to try and rebuild a new landscape which is more egalitarian and which serves the community at large, said Mr Chen of his new position.

Mr Achim Jedelsky joins Crowdvillas European Markets Advisor. He is the initiator of the Daimler Blockchain Group and founder of Berlin Chapter of the International Blockchain Real Estate Association (IBREA). He has worked in both Germany and the UK and is part of Daimler Real Estate, where he is responsible for optimizing the digital real estate processes and the digital strategy of the Daimler AG subsidiary.

I am excited by blockchain and its potential to help grow a true and transparent sharing economy. I want to help Crowdvilla revolutionize and modernize property ownership forever, said Mr Jedelsky.

Mr John Dean Markunas joins as American Markets Advisor. He has a prolific real estate background in North and South America in the areas of marketing, sales, business development and branding. He is the founder of Brazil Chapter of the International Blockchain Real Estate Association (IBREA). He has over twenty years of real estate experience in the Latin American markets. In addition to living and working in Brazil, John has also lived in Mexico for six years. He is a real estate Blockchain consultant with a global outlook, and a specialisation in business development in Latin America.

Having lived in various countries, I understand how hard it can be for people to gain access to real estate, especially for those in developing economies. We can using this disruptive new technology so that it works for our entire global community, said Mr Markunas.

Crowdvilla is gearing up for its token sale to take place in March 2018.Quenching Pernambucos thirst: Now repaired and watertight thanks to PENETRON technology, the Jucazinho Dam once again provides drinking water to 800,000 people across the province. We used a range of Penetron products to repair the damaged structures and waterproof all the exposed concrete surfaces. Like all crystalline products from Penetron, they are completely non-toxic and contain no VOCs, making them an ideal solution for a reservoir that supplies drinking water. Past News Releases RSS Penetron Just What The Doctor...

Ole Miss Sports Fans Benefit from...

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In the midst of a multiple-year drought that cracked its concrete structure and emptied its reservoir, the Jucazinho Dam in the northeast corner of Brazil has been completely renovated and repaired in time for this years expected rainy season. A range of PENETRON crystalline products were used to ensure a waterproof and durable concrete structure.

The after-effects of Pernambuco States worst drought in 60 years left the Jucazinho Dam virtually empty. Completed in 1998, the dam is 100 meters (330-feet) high and 442 meters (1,460-feet) wide and has a reservoir capacity of 327 million m (86 billion gallons) of water, making the Jucazinho Dam the largest reservoir in Pernambuco.

The Companhia Pernambucana de Saneamento (Compesa), the state operator of the dam, reports that the Jucazinho Dam once provided drinking water to 800,000 people in the 15 surrounding municipalities. Since the beginning of the drought, the extent of this service has been drastically reduced over the past 5 years.

The exposure to drying temperatures and sporadic rain led to water infiltrating the cracks and joints of the dams concrete structure, causing further concrete deterioration and partial scaling of the dams concrete surfaces. In 2013, a government report recommended repairing the dams concrete walls and drainage galleries.

Once the rains return, the dehydrated structure may rupture, endangering the nearby town of Surubim and even flooding the city of Recife, 124 km (77 miles) away on the Atlantic coast, further threatening around three million inhabitants.

Fissures were found in the dams structure during inspections made last year, said Roberto Tavares, President of Compesa. The dam really needs extensive repair and renovation."

The technical experts at Penetron Brazil worked with the National Department of Waterworks (DNOCS), a federal agency, to come up with an appropriate repair and renovation solution. After careful examination of the damaged concrete walls and the drainage galleries, the right mixer and spraying pumping systems were selected to ensure an effective spray application and sound adhesion of the enhanced shotcrete and the other surface-applied and injected crystalline treatments.

We used a range of Penetron products to repair the damaged structures and waterproof all the exposed concrete surfaces, says Claudio Neves Ourives, Executive Director of Penetron Brazil. Like all crystalline products from Penetron, they are completely non-toxic and contain no VOCs, making them an ideal solution for a reservoir that supplies drinking water.

Restoration work started in January 2017. To seal the cracks and eliminate the surface scaling, the concrete walls were treated with a combination of PENETRON INJECT FLEX, a spray applied liquid sealer, PENESEAL PRO and PATCHLINE SM, a polymer-modified mortar. PENETRON INJECT FLEX, a resin injection, was used to seal 6,000 m (20,000-feet) of concrete joints. PATCHLINE SM was applied to over 20,000 m2 (220,000-square feet) of dam walls at a thickness of 2 cm. PENETRON ADMIX was added to the shotcrete to improve the concrete performance and waterproof the drainage galleries.

Everyone is hoping the replenishing late summer rains that fall in April and May will finally return, adds Claudio Neves Ourives. Until then, the renovated Jucazinho Dam is ready for the water!

The Penetron Group is a leading manufacturer of specialty construction products for concrete waterproofing, concrete repairs and floor preparation systems. The Group operates through a global network, offering support to the design and construction community through its regional offices, representatives and distribution channels.

For more information on Penetron waterproofing solutions, please visit penetron(dot)com or Facebook(dot)com/ThePenetronGroup, email CRDept(at)penetron(dot)com, or contact the Corporate Relations Department at 631-941-9700.Top luxury retailers who have already implemented our 3D imaging integrations are showing conversion increases of as much as 30-40%, and we are proud to bring the similar changes to Claris Virot

Claris Virot, one of the famous French luxury brands, has started its collaboration with Cappasity to showcase their exclusive handbags in 3D. The company has embedded 3D images of their new collection of high-end handmade python skin bags into their website. Claris Virot is the first luxury brand utilizing Cappasitys new feature  HD Zoom. Now their clients can fully enjoy the collection and see materials and designs in every detail.

Bags made by Claris Virot are famous for its outstanding textures, as the skins undergo a strict selection process. The distinctive features of each one, which may include irregularities or color differences inherent to their natural origin, make each new piece unique.

Our customers are a priority for us and we want to deliver the best possible browsing experience to them. Cappasitys cutting-edge technology makes online shopping easier and more natural for them allowing to study materials, textures and colors in every detail. This helps us to differentiate in the market and showcase our unique products as never before," said Jean-Christophe Ankaoua, President of Lion-Snakes (Marque Claris Virot).

We are glad that Claris Virots clients can now enjoy advantages of our technological solution," said Kosta Popov, Cappasity CEO. Top luxury retailers who have already implemented our 3D imaging integrations are showing conversion increases of as much as 30-40%, and we are proud to bring the similar changes to Claris Virot.

CAPPASITY

Cappasity was founded in 2013 with the aim of developing a technological standard and an easy and scalable platform for creating, embedding, and analyzing 3D and AR/VR content. The company successfully raised over $4.9M and launched its platform and 3D digitizing software in 2017.

Cappasity brings an in-store browsing experience to online retail through interactive and photorealistic 3D images that can be easily embedded into websites, mobile apps, and VR/AR applications. Their clients report 30%+ increase in conversion rate and fewer returns. With headquarters in Santa Clara, California, the company is now also working with luxury brands at Station F in Paris.

CLARIS VIROT

The brand Claris Virot was created in 2014 by Clarisse Virot and Jean-Christophe Ankaoua.

Clarisse Virot creates lines of accessories which are ideally suited to work effortlessly with both day and evening wear. The elegance of her creations comes from the sobriety of the design, flowing lines structured by the python scales that provide the defining detail.With all the troubles in our world right now, Lucidity says, "Lets build the world we want to live in." Past News Releases RSS

Awaken the New Story this April 68 at Live Oak Campground

While creative groups of attendees bring their unique piece of the vision to the site, a collaborative village is built for all to enjoy over the three day campout weekend. All are invited.

Stages offer a wide range of music, as well as dance, flow arts and theatrical performances. A healing arts village offers everything from massage to chiropractic to herbal remedies. Beyond the art gallery are interactive installations and immersive environments that are sure to evoke the inner child. The festival features a plethora of yoga classes, as well as workshops focused on personal growth, technology, environmental activism, creativity, and more! Also, an entire realm for families features fun activities for little people and their taller sidekicks.

Lucidity takes education a step further with Lucid University CourseWeek. While the festival is being built around them, students will immerse themselves in a course of their choice:

CommunityWorks: Drama-Free Love,

EcologyWorks: Permaculture Design for Regenerating the California Landscape, or

InnovationWorks: Building the Lighthouse; Big Art at Lucidity.

Folded into a core curriculum for all students is a class on Creative Keys to Mastery, Lucid Dreaming, Chi Yoga, and Contact Improv.

Rising Dawn brings with it a few changes as the narrative shifts. The New Story of Lucidity features Elemental Realms in place of the Archetypal Villages from the past 6 years. Rather than 7 Villages and a Lucid City, the New Story will showcase the 5 Elemental Realms of Water, Earth, Fire, Air, and Spirit. Interact with the characters, ask questions, and one might find theres a deeper game to play, a more profound meaning to it all, a link between the dreamtime and this waking life that could just be the answer to the ever-burning questions in the hearts of many.

Lucidity believes there is something bright and beautiful on the horizon. Find out what's possible!

Press Contact: Saphir Lewis, Media & Press Manager  media@lucidityfestival.com  360.966.4683

Tickets are now available for this unique experiential weekend of music, art, connection and more. Learn more about Lucidity or get involved in creating the magic at 2018.LucidityFestival.com.

The Lucidity Vision - take a look at what makes Lucidity so special

The Lucidity Narrative - follow the story through chapter seven

Lucidity Festival LLC is a collectively owned organization dedicated to creating transformational experiences for individuals and communities; a production company; a creative lifestyle for expanding consciousness, and an interconnected community of friends and family.With experience providing emergency response, inspection, and rehabilitation services for many of Michigans movable bridges, our team has a deep understanding of the challenges and intricacies they present.

Modjeski and Masters, a nationwide leader in the design, inspection, and rehabilitation of all bridge types, today announced its selection for the Statewide Movable Bridge contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

As the prime consultant on this contract, Modjeski and Masters will perform as-needed detailed structural, mechanical, electrical, and/or hydraulic inspections of movable bridges across the state of Michigan. Bridges that may be included in the contract include: Lafayette Street Bascule Bridge, Military Street Bascule Bridge, Fort Street Bascule Bridge, Houghton-Hancock Lift Bridge, Veterans Memorial Bascule Bridge, Saint Clair Bascule Bridge, Cheboygan Bascule Bridge, Charlevoix Bascule Bridge, Blossomland Bascule Bridge, Bicentennial Bascule Bridge, Grand Haven Bascule Bridge, and Manistee Memorial Bascule Bridge. This selection continues Modjeski and Masters previous work on movable bridges in the state.

We look forward to continuing our work with the Michigan Department of Transportation with the Statewide Movable Bridge contract, said Mike Britt, President and CEO of Modjeski and Masters. With experience providing emergency response, inspection, and rehabilitation services for many of Michigans movable bridges, our team has a deep understanding of the challenges and intricacies they present. We look forward to the opportunity to leverage this experience to ensure the continued safety and proper functioning of Michigans movable bridges.

Other work for this contract includes around-the-clock response to troubleshoot malfunctioning movable bridge systems and scheduled in-depth inspections of particular bridge components. This selection marks the second recent MDOT contract win for Modjeski and Masters including its selection for the anchor link and gusset plate replacement on the first Blue Water Bridge.

For more information about Modjeski and Masters work on Movable Bridges, visit: http://www.modjeski.com/Services/detail.aspx?service=MovableBridges

About Modjeski and Masters

Modjeski and Masters is one of the worlds leading bridge engineering firms, with a reputation for technical excellence and innovation that goes beyond current standards. Established more than 125 years ago, the firm is responsible for the design and maintenance of some of our nations most recognizable structures. Services include fixed and movable bridge design, inspection and rehabilitation, and all facets of life-cycle maintenance, research and code development. For more information, including in-depth videos of Modjeski and Masters at work, please visit http://www.modjeski.com.Plain Green Loans Donates Funds for Rocky Boys Volunteer Firefighters and New Fire Truck In the wake of this summers devastating wild fires, we believe it is critical to support our communitys volunteer firefighters, said Jay Abbasi, chief executive officer of Plain Green.

Plain Green, LLC, a wholly-owned business of the Chippewa Cree Tribe, announces a recent donation to the Rocky Boys Volunteer Firefighters of the Rocky Boy Reservation. The $30,000 donation from Plain Green Loans will help offset the costs of a new fire truck and safety equipment. The six volunteers have begun formal training and several have already received Fire Ready Certification.

In the wake of this summers devastating wild fires, we believe it is critical to support our communitys volunteer firefighters, said Jay Abbasi, chief executive officer of Plain Green. In addition to being trained to put out wild fires, the volunteers recently received Fire Ready certification for responding to fires in residential and commercial buildings, as well as HazMat certification for emergency response involving hazardous materials. A new fire truck will allow the volunteers to respond more quickly while enhancing the safety of all involved. Were pleased to provide funding for new firefighting equipment to support the first responders.

When a fire emergency occurs on the Rocky Boy Reservation, residents call 9-1-1 Police Dispatch on the Rocky Boy reservation and the call is routed to the Rocky Boys Volunteer Fire Department. The first responders are trained to access and identify the situationpotential reasons for the fire, locations of hydrants, and most importantly, if anyone is still in the burning building.

This donation from Plain Green Loans is greatly appreciated and goes a long way toward our goal of creating a modern, well-functioning fire department, said Calvin Jilot, Fire Chief. In total, weve raised just over $80,000 but we still have a long way to go. We received an estimate of $500,000 for a new fire truck and 02 tanks can cost nearly $40,000.

Some of the departments 02 tanks date from 2002, while first aid kits and other equipment are too old to be re-certified for use. The Chippewa Cree Tribe is raising funds from private donations and grants from the Bureau of Indian Affairs to secure new tanks, masks and other gear. The vision for the future is to provide Search and Rescue training to aid the communitys needs.

Donations to further the Rocky Boys Volunteer Fire Department can be made by sending a check to the attention of Fire Chief Calvin Jilot f/b/o Rocky Boy Volunteer Fire Department, 31 Agency Sq., Box Elder, MT 59521.

Plain Green, LLC is a wholly-owned business of the Chippewa Cree Tribe. As a tribally-chartered corporation, the primary mission is to maximize the economic and social impact of the Chippewa Cree Tribe and Rocky Boys and Box Elder communities. Knowing the future growth of the community relies on healthcare, safety, education and economic development, Plain Green focuses on programs that support the Chippewa Cree Tribe.QUADRA Furniture and Spaces announces Liberty View Industrial Plaza Expansion Both BAT and Liberty View enhance Quadras ability to execute on major initiatives slated for 2018 and 2019 and will provide Quadra with the ability to continue with their expansion plans.

QUADRA Furniture & Spaces, a Designer Furniture Rental company, is excited to announce that it has signed a letter of intent to lease 11,000 square feet of additional office/interior design space, expanding their operations into Liberty View Industrial Plaza, in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, New York. The transaction also calls for an additional 60,000 square feet of space under a Right of First Offer with the landlord, Salmar Properties LLC. Quadra will continue to operate their 20,000 square foot warehouse at the Brooklyn Army Terminal (BAT), in Sunset Park.

We are excited about this transaction as we have innovative plans for these spaces. Both BAT and Liberty View enhance Quadras ability to execute on major initiatives slated for 2018 and 2019 and will provide Quadra with the ability to continue with their expansion plans. Stay tuned, said the companys CEO, Robert Sablic.

Quadra is being represented by Robin Fisher, Senior Managing Director at Newmark Knight Frank, and has retained James Lotito and Sean Altschul of Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP as counsel on the transaction. The transaction is subject to finalization of lease terms as well as board approval.

About QUADRA

Headquartered in Brooklyn and founded in 2005, Quadra creates smart spaces for people to live and work better by providing end-to-end bespoke and pre-designed furniture rental collections. Learn more at http://www.quadrafs.com and follow us on Instagram or Pinterest or email us at info(at)quadrafs(dot)com.Frampus.com "You already know what that person looks like because you've seen them in real life already. The online photo provides additional recall. It is for all people who want to meet other people AFTER they've made contact somewhere in everyday life."

Imagine, if you will, a world of tags, brought to life in a world of personalization, localization and broadening of social networking into localized social communities, each managed individually yet interconnected, where anyone with an idea can create and run their own social network. Meet Frampus.com, the new game-changer in social media!

Frampus is introducing a bold new spin on social networking where they are extending and localizing a network of more than 3,000 individualized social communities to every college/university in the United States. Each college will have their own social community on a Frampus.com subdomain named after each college's EDU domain, each operating independently of one another, yet interconnected. Every college subdomain has its own Admin login credentials, allowing Frampus to recruit community members as sponsors to add more modules and even make money off advertising that would be targeted to each college/university and the areas surrounding them.

This may be a lot to comprehend at once, but put very simply, if you go to Penn State, you know your college's EDU URL is http://www.psu.edu therefore your Frampus URL is psu.frampus.com. Harvard can be found at harvard.frampus.com, NYU is nyu.frampus.com, and so on. By fall semester, this will hold true for every college in the USA that has an EDU URL extension. Visitors are encouraged to log onto the Web site, complete a quick profile and upload a current head shot. Site access is free and for a very limited time only, Frampus ID tags are also free! Frampus ID tags will then be sold at an introductory price of only $5 which also covers shipping!

Merging a bright yellow and black Frampus ID tag with users' profiles, and hosting each campus individually, Frampus users can securely meet people anonymously on their own campuses in real-time, in real-life, and online, using a fun new concept that is being brought to life in 2018 to finally fill the void Facebook left on college campuses when they went global and to add some new spirit to social networking by creating community-driven social communities.

Frampus is also offering a global site located at myframpus.com that's for everyone. Their yellow and black tags have a semi-unique ID printed on them, which makes you searchable online. You're still anonymous but you're now uniquely connected between the real world and the cyberworld. It's a new way to meet people who pique your interest on campus.

Once the registration process is complete users can receive in the mail an attractive, durable, glossy Frampus ID tag to put on their bookbags, backpacks, purses, each printed with a personal identification number, known as the "Frampus ID Tag", by adding it in their shopping cart on Frampus.com. It is affixed to your belongings and looks like an "accessory" only it offers much, much more!

When other users see your identification number, they can log onto the Frampus.com website, enter the Frampus Tag ID they spotted, and learn more about you. If the individual wants to correspond with you, he/she can do so through the website's messaging system. No direct e-mail addresses or any personal information is ever given out!

Frampus.com is being developed by Philadelphia, Pennsylvania native, Ben Philips, an Information Technology professional. Philips came up with the idea 12 years ago but the timing was never right, until now. "You already know what that person looks like because you've seen them in real life already. The online photo provides additional recall. It is for all people who want to meet other people AFTER they've made contact somewhere in everyday life."

And for the entrepreneurs and computer geeks, click the UNA link at the bottom of any page to be led to the UNA site where you can start creating your own social networks yourselves, using your own ideas yet using the same software and concepts that Frampus is using. UNA is a product by Boonex and is being made available and extended for collegiate convenience by Frampus. We want to see what college students and others can accomplish by having this incredible open-source software product at their fingertips. The Boonex Marketplace offers many customizable plug-in modules that will be added throughout the year to enhance user experience. Check back often in 2018 as this is a work in progress!

For more information, please visit https://www.frampus.com; contact Ben Philips, Founder, (215) 617-6472, ben@frampus.com.

#####

Web Site = https://www.frampus.com

Contact Details = 215-617-6472

Ben@frampus.comDue to our generous sponsors, we have the means to address the need for more talent in this rapidly growing profession

MinneAnalytics (http://minneanalytics.org/), the nations largest regional analytics community and events organization, announced today it has approved $100,000 in investments for data science education initiatives in 2018. The funding marks an increase from the $62,900 it invested in 2017 and continues the organizations objective to increase its funding of education initiatives each year.

Due to our generous sponsors, we have the means to address the need for more talent in this rapidly growing profession, said Dan Atkins, cofounder and executive director of MinneAnalytics. Were able to reinvest in the community by providing direct support and opportunities for students pursuing a career in the field of data science and analytics.

Candidates with data science skills are increasingly sought after by employers. According to McKinsey Global Institute, the US will experience a shortage of 190,000 skilled data scientists by 2018, while IBM predicts the need for data scientists will soar by 28% by 2020.

According to Atkins, funding will be split between student scholarships and education events. Last year, MinneAnalytics funded scholarships for students at twelve colleges and universities across the Midwest. The number of scholarships is expected to increase substantially in 2018.

MinneAnalytics has plans to repeat and expand its MinneMUDAC data science competition, an event co-organized by Minnesotas Winona State University. It is designed to give graduate and undergraduate students direct experience with large sets of data while competing for cash prizes. Last years event on November 4 drew more than 60 teams from 50 schools. MinneAnalytics will also expand its reach to the high-school level with a pilot competition this April hosted by Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

About MinneAnalytics

MinneAnalytics is a nonprofit organization serving Minnesotas data science and analytics community by providing accessible, authentic, and engaging events. The organization facilitates the sharing of knowledge and ideas among analytics professionals across business, technology, and decision science through several industry-specific events and conferences each year. In addition, MinneAnalytics hosts student analytics challenges and analytics leader forums, and provides student scholarships. MinneAnalytics events are free to attendees due to the generous support of many sponsors. The community has grown to include more than 12,000 members, with job titles ranging from CEO and CTO to data scientist and quantitative analyst. The variety of organizations ranges from the Fortune 500, to startups, academia, and the curious. For more information, please visit http://minneanalytics.org.

# # #Mackie V. Spradley, NAfME President-Elect 2018-20 We value the contributions to music education from all the candidates who take part in this process and look forward to Mackie Spradley carrying forth our long tradition of leadership for the field.

On February 8, 2018, the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) announced the 2018-2020 National President-Elect chosen by NAfME Members. Dr. Mackie V. Spradley, Immediate Past President of the NAfME Texas chapter, is the Director of Enrichment Education for the Texas Education Agency who provides statewide leadership over all enrichment subjects. Concurrently, Mackie teaches graduate-level courses in the Educational Leadership Online Masters Program as an adjunct professor in the Department of Teacher Education and Administration, College of Education, University of North Texas.

Every two years, the members of NAfME cast their votes for the next person to lead the association, and thus set the direction for NAfME in carrying out the associations Strategic Plan, said Michael J. Blakeslee, NAfME Executive Director and CEO. We value the contributions to music education from all the candidates who take part in this process and look forward to Mackie Spradley carrying forth our long tradition of leadership for the field.

Learn more about the selected Presidents-Elect:



NAfME 2018-20 National President-Elect: Mackie V. Spradley. Before becoming the Coordinator of Secondary Choral & General Music Studies in the Dallas Independent School District for 10 years, Dr. Spradley taught music in Ft. Worth ISD and Dallas ISD for 16 years. Dr. Spradleys teaching experiences include Texas Womans University, Ft. Worth Civic Chorus, private studio voice, and extended assignments in Jamaica and Japan. She has served as Multicultural Chair, board member of the National Association for Multicultural Educators, associated faculty with the Texas Christian University Center for Public Education, state-level think-tanks, and as a curriculum writer of the Music Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills. In addition to serving as Immediate Past President of the Texas NAfME chapter, Dr. Spradley is the facilitator for the Teacher Retention Area for Strategic Planning and Action with the Society of Music Teacher Education (SMTE). Learn more.

North Central Division President-Elect: Karen Salvador. Karen Salvador is an associate professor of music education at the University of Michigan-Flint. Dr. Salvadors research pertains to inclusion, equity, and justice in music education, examining the intersections of instructional practices, policy, and music teacher education. She is past facilitator of the Society for Music Teacher Educations Area for Strategic Planning and Action on Cultural Diversity and Social Justice, and currently serves as President of the Michigan Music Education Association. Learn more.

Southern Division President-Elect: Sonja Zonetta McLean Williams. Sonja Williams has more than 29 years of collegiate and intermediate school teaching experience. She was named Teacher of the Year three times, and has held many leadership positions within NCMEA, including Middle School Choral Section Member-at-Large, Chair-Elect, Chair, and currently an Adjudicator. She has served on the Board of Directors as Member-at-Large and Scholarship Chair. Mrs. Williams is a Past President of the North Carolina Music Educators Association. Learn more.

Western Division President-Elect: Renee Shane-Boyd. Renee Shane-Boyd served as Arizona Music Educators Associations (AMEA) President from 2013-2015. A teacher in Catalina Foothills School District for 35 years, she is currently Director of Bands at Catalina Foothills High School. Honors include the OM Hartsell Excellence in Music Education Award, University of Arizona Honored Educator, 2009 CFSD Teacher of the Year Award, AMEA Longevity in Teaching Award, and in 2015, the Rotary International named her a Paul Harris Fellow for outstanding contributions to the community. Learn more.

###

National Association for Music Education, among the worlds largest arts education organizations, is the only association that addresses all aspects of music education. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers. The Association orchestrates success for millions of students nationwide and has supported music educators at all teaching levels for more than a century. With more than 60,000 members, the organization is the national voice of music education in the United States.

Follow NAfME on Twitter (twitter.com/nafme) and on Facebook (facebook.com/nafme).

For additional information, contact Catherina Hurlburt at catherinah(at)nafme.org or 703-860-4000, ext. 216.Senior Resource Group 30th Anniversary We live in exciting times. We have the privilege of introducing SRG communities to new markets and having a powerful impact on the lives we serve.

The retirement-living landscape looks a lot different now than it did in 1988, when Senior Resource Group (SRG) entered the picture. And, Michael Grust, SRG president and CEO, is proud of the role his company has played in initiating the evolution.

SRG serves more than 5,000 retirees in 32 communities in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Oregon and Washington. In addition to introducing engaging, rental-based senior housing to the market - a radical departure from the more institutional options that were the norm prior to 1988 - SRG pioneered key innovations that draw from the best practices of the real estate, hospitality, healthcare and gerontology industries. At SRG communities, residents are encouraged to create their own blueprint for living well by choosing from a wide selection of personalized opportunities designed to meet their physical, emotional, intellectual and social needs.

"Thirty years ago we were really inventing a new business," said Grust, who entered senior living from the home building industry.

He began by listening to the wants and needs of residents - a practice that became the foundation of one of the company's taglines: If you listen carefully, you can hear the future. Then, he acted on what he heard by creating a company culture dedicated to meeting those needs. The result is exceptional communities known for their progressive designs, dynamic wellness programming, high-touch care and elevated standards of excellence.

"Our residents tell us everything we need to know about who they are and how they want to live," Grust said. "Their input guides us in everything we do and has driven SRG to become a company fueled by our passion for service."

Today, as adults are living longer and demand for quality retirement living options is on the rise, SRG is celebrating its 30th anniversary by staying one step ahead in a business that is bracing for an influx of baby boomers barreling headlong into retirement. According to a Pew Research Center report, approximately 10,000 baby boomers per day will reach age 65 over the next 12 years. And, almost universally, they will increasingly want a lifestyle of choice and independence.

"There is no greater time than now for our industry to design buildings and services for the future," Grust said. "Seniors and their influencers (their children) are telling us they need environments that are the catalyst for quality of life. These are continuums of care that marry the attributes of home, progressive wellness programs, hospitality and the ability to remain connected and engaged with the surrounding neighborhood. We serve a discerning audience that enjoys living a fully engaged life, which is why our goal has always been to lead rather than follow. To imagine rather than imitate."

In addition to building attractive retirement communities and taking a "whole person" approach to wellness, SRG further differentiates itself from others by demonstrating a passion for quality that touches every aspect of the business, especially resident care. The company was the first senior living provider to voluntarily seek and be awarded accreditation for all of its eligible assisted living communities by The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). A CARF accreditation merit parallels a five-star rating in the hospitality industry and represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an assisted living organization.

"Earning a CARF accreditation is a testament to our commitment to provide exceptional care to our residents," said Grust. "We are truly propelled by a desire to create environments that not only meet seniors' needs but enhance the quality of their lives."

Grust said a key to achieving, and sustaining, high-quality care is recruiting top-notch employees, and inspiring them to approach their jobs with the same passion and reverence for the customer that SRG's operating philosophy mandates. This passion is expressed in SRG's SynRGy program in which staff and residents collaborate to create a genuine connection and a sense of community at each of SRG's residential facilities.

As he looks to the future, Grust remains optimistic about his industry and SRG's place in it. "We live in exciting times. We have the privilege of introducing SRG communities to new markets and having a powerful impact on the lives we serve," he said. "We're always anticipating what's next and seeking innovative ways to make each moment more exceptional for our residents. There's no other business I can think of that is as rewarding."

About Senior Resource Group:

Senior Resource Group, LLC (SRG) develops, owns and operates distinctive independent living, assisted living and Alzheimer's/dementia care communities in Arizona, California, Oregon, Georgia and Florida.

Since 1988, the company has championed the development and management of innovative retirement communities that provide older adults with the knowledge, programs, resources and support to create one's own blueprint for wellness and living a fully engaged life.

SRG's corporate headquarters is located at 500 Stevens Avenue, Suite 100, Solana Beach, CA 92075. For more information, call 858-792-9300 or visit http://www.SRGseniorliving.com.With our ISO 27001 certification, we have demonstrated our commitment to staying ahead of the field in protecting clients data. This certification represents a critical achievement for the new Paperless and Sovos team.

Global tax compliance and reporting leader Sovos today announced that it has achieved ISO 27001 certification in Chile, becoming one of only 30 technology companies in the country to have obtained the certification.

The globally recognized International Organization for Standardization developed The ISO 27001 standard. The standard provides requirements for information security, specifically related to management of assets such as financial information, intellectual property, employee details or information entrusted to an organization by third parties.

Sovos established a presence in Chile with the 2017 acquisition of Paperless, the eInvoicing and eReceipts solution used most often by retail businesses across Latin America. The certification represents the collective work of a combined Sovos and Paperless team.

ISO 27001 certification involves a long and painstaking process that includes, among other steps, documenting processes, performing risk analysis and developing a treatment plan to mitigate risks. It requires buy-in from all levels of the organization, including executive leadership. Ultimately, ISO 27001 certification ensures Sovos customers that the company is on the forefront of data security and makes protecting their data the highest priority.

We have defined three pillars of excellence, said Alfredo Guardiola, managing director for Latin America at Sovos. Two of them are availability and scalability. The third is security, and with our ISO 27001 certification, we have demonstrated our commitment to staying ahead of the field in protecting clients data. This certification represents a critical achievement for the new Paperless and Sovos team.

About Sovos

Sovos is a global leader in tax compliance and business-to-government reporting software, safeguarding businesses from the burden and risk of compliance around the world. As governments go digital, businesses face increased risk and complexity. The Sovos Intelligent Compliance Cloud combines world-class regulatory analysis with a global cloud software platform to create an adaptable, connected and global compliance solution that keeps businesses ahead of the ever-changing regulatory environment. Sovos supports 4,500 companies, including half of the Fortune 500, and integrates with a wide variety of business applications. Based in Boston, Sovos has offices throughout North America, Latin America and Europe. For more information visit http://www.sovos.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.Black History Month New Orleans Literary Jazz Brunch The support we have received for this years event has been overwhelming. I am so excited that the community has gotten behind our literary weekend. This is what its all about!

Meet the World Image Solutions Second Annual Black History Month New Orleans Literary Weekend has grown even bigger, so much so that the stage play has moved to a larger venue.

The support we have received for this years event has been overwhelming, said Rhonda M. Lawson, founder and president of Meet the World Image Solutions, LLC. I am so excited that the community has gotten behind our literary weekend. This is what its all about!

The participating authors for the 2018 Black History Month New Orleans Literary Weekend include Marvin Bryson, screenwriter and author of Expectancy: A Caregiver's Story of Navigating Family Issues Between Retirement and Transition, private chef and business owner Diana Riley, author of Cooking on Purpose: Life Lessons Learned from the Kitchen, inspirational author Felicia Brookins, author of Sister Nadeens Ways, inspirational author Lynette Edwards, author of Take Off the Mask, Keisha Lapsley, inspirational author, playwright and CEO of Inherited Kingdom Enterprises, inspirational author Brittany Lenore, author of Blind Faith, Paula Johnson Hutchinson, author and owner of Second to None Salon, and Jasiri Basel, technologist and author of 101 Things I Wish My Father Taught Me.

A free writers workshop will kick off the weekend at 11 a.m., Feb. 23 at the Norman Mayer Library, located at 3001 Gentilly Blvd. The workshop will include a panel discussion on writing tips and the relationship between literacy and African American history. Featured speakers will be motivational speaker Wil Cason and Felicia Young, CEO of Higher Minds of Education. However, just prior to the workshop, the authors will visit students at St. Marys Academy and speak to the Male Academy and high school students.

On Saturday, Feb. 24 at 10:30 a.m., Meet the World Image Solutions will host a literary jazz brunch featuring the New Orleans Jazz Group Yisrael at the Tombar Life Center, located at 1683 North Claiborne Avenue, New Orleans, LA, 70116. The brunch will feature Francheska Felder, CEO of SwagHer Magazine, and Rose Bratcher, New Orleans first African American Zen monk. The winners of the Meet the World Image Solutions Black History Month Essay Contest will also be awarded. One winner will be selected from each grade to receive $100 and scholarship materials sponsored by Higher Minds of Education, LLC. SwagHer Magazine, also an event sponsor, will also publish each winners essay on their website. Another key addition to the brunch is local talk show personality Renada Collins, who will emcee the program.

I am ecstatic to have Renada join our weekend, Lawson said. She has a large personality that will really make the brunch unforgettable. She has been doing so many incredible things in the city, and Im just happy that we are a part of it.

The final event of the weekend will be the premiere of Cheatin in the Next Room: The Stageplay, which will take place on the evening of Feb. 24 at 7:30 pm following a free pre-production social, which will begin at 5:30 pm. The play has received such an overwhelming response that it has been moved to the Landry-Walker High School Theater. The play, directed by New Orleans veteran actors Rose Bratcher and Kirk Bush, is based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Rhonda M. Lawson, and will star New Orleans actor and director Dominque McClellan, Clairica Lange, and Terreze Williams. Also featured will be Jeanette Scott, Teddo November, Amber Ned, Willie Lee, and Demetrius Bradley. Early bird tickets are sold out, but advance tickets are still on sale for $30. Group rates are also available.

Moving venues can be a stressful time, but it just tells me that our community is just as excited as we are, Lawson said. The change in venue also gives us the opportunity to better support our citys students as well as our wonderful authors, many of whom are traveling from very far to be here.

Additional information on the Black History Month New Orleans Literary Weekend can be found on the Meet the World Image Solutions website or by calling 504-505-5894. Tickets for the literary brunch and stage play are available on Eventbrite. Combo and group tickets are available.

Meet the World Image Solutions, LLC is a boutique public relations firm that specializes in assisting small business, non-profit organizations, authors, and artists. It was founded Jan. 23, 2017 by author and U.S. Army veteran Rhonda M. Lawson as a vehicle to promote entrepreneurs with smaller advertising budgets. Since its founding, Meet the World has hosted two major literary events and airs Horizons With Meet the World Image Solutions, a literary talk show, on the New Orleans Talk Network each Wednesday at 7 pm CST.The Intelligent Community Forum (ICF) named the worlds Top7 Intelligent Communities of 2018 today. This is the think tanks 16th annual Top7 list of regions, cities or towns that have gone, in ICFs words, from Smart City to Intelligent Community. This years list includes communities from four nations, with Taiwan contributing three, Canada two communities and Australia and Finland one each. The seven will travel to London in June where one will go on to be named the Intelligent Community of the Year, succeeding Melbourne, Australia, the reigning community. The announcement will take place as the culminating event at the ICF Global Summit from 4-6 June at Siemens Crystal Facility and other sites around London. (http://www.icfsummit.com)

In alphabetical order, the Top7 Intelligent Communities of 2018 are:

> Chiayi City, Taiwan

> Espoo, Finland

> Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

> Ipswich, Queensland, Australia

> Tainan City, Taiwan

> Taoyuan, Taiwan

> Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Three of the Top7 are making their first appearance on the list: Espoo, Hamilton and Tainan City. Another three make their third appearance: Ipswich, Taoyuan and Winnipeg. Chiayi City is making its second. The Awards program drives communities to make substantial progress from year to year, so it is not unusual for a community to continue to enter the program. There is no cost to enter.

As part of the announcement, ICF released a video announcing the new Top7. See the video at: http://www.intelligentcommunity.org/top7 or on ICF's YouTube page at https://youtu.be/-JArZ3fHqEw. A high-resolution download of the video is available by request.

"The successor to Melbourne will come from one of four countries this year, said ICF co-founder Louis Zacharilla. Even though these places are diverse and spread across the world, they share an emphatic effort to use broadband, open data and other digital tools to humanize policy and remove anxiety from daily life. Even though technology is a key driver of growth and public service and infrastructure management, people today sense that their dignity and our true development comes when it is put in service of every individual citizen. These seven long ago dared to stake that claim for their future. The results are wonderful."

The ICF Top7 Intelligent Communities of 2018 will be featured throughout the ICF Global Summit on 4-6 June in London. Representatives from the Top7 will take part in Economic Development Matchmaking sessions, workshops and roundtables, special conversations detailing their stories, receptions honoring the Top7 and a dinner to name the Intelligent Community of the Year. For more information visit http://www.icfsummit.com.

Following are brief profiles for this years 2018 Top7 Intelligent Communities. More complete profiles are found online on ICF's Website.

Chiayi City, Taiwan: Chiayi is a provincial city of 270,000 in southcentral Taiwan, midway between Taichung and Tainan. Ninety-five percent of its economy is in the services sector  wholesale and retail, transportation and warehousing, and accommodation and food  which employs three-quarters of the workforce. After Chiayi was ranked as having the worst air quality in Taiwan in 2014, Mayor Twu Shiing-jer, a physician, dedicated his administration to improving life in the city in this and many other areas. What followed was a clean air initiative, a rollout of a broadband network with over 1,000 Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the city, a new focus on digital education, and more.

Espoo, Finland: In the far northern nations of the world, people tend to cluster southward. Espoo, Finland's second largest city, lies on the border of its biggest city and national capital, Helsinki. In 1950, Espoo was a regional municipality of 22,000, which drew its name from the Swedish words for the aspen tree and for river. Today, Espoo is still a place on a river bordered by aspen trees. While it is an industrial city of 270,000, it retains its dispersed, regional nature, however, being made of up of seven population hubs arrayed along the border with Helsinki, where many of its citizens work.

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada: The Golden Horseshoe is the region that bends around the westernmost end of Lake Ontario in Canada. At the center of the horseshoes curve is Hamilton, a city of 520,000 known for industry, education and cultural diversity, having the third-largest foreign-born population in Canada. Located 70 kilometers southwest of Toronto (the 2014 Intelligent Community of the Year), Hamilton was once known as the Steel Capital of Canada, producing 60% of the nations steel. It is also a successful lake port city and operates an airport that saw passenger traffic grow tenfold from 1996 to 2002. A 30-year economic development plan begun in 2003 set the goal of creating a massive aerotropolis industrial park around that airport to capitalize on its success.

Ipswich, Queensland, Australia: In 2011, the city of Ipswich published a 20-year economic development plan for its population of 195,000. It forecast the addition of 292,000 new residents, who will require an additional 120,000 jobs, and will live in a network of distinct communities interwoven with centers of employment, recreational facilities and green space. Because Ipswich offered affordable housing and an attractive lifestyle, its population has grown rapidly in the booming economy of 21st Century Australia.

Tainan City, Taiwan: If you have ever eaten a bowl of instant noodles, you owe a debt to Momofuku Ando, founder of Nissin Foods and inventor of this staple of Asian fast food, who was born and raised in Tainan City. This city of 1.9 million was the historic capital of Taiwan and the cultural heritage of centuries remains one of Tainans most important assets that drives a thriving tourist industry. Tainan today, however, is about much more than the past. It is home to multiple science and technology parks including the Southern Taiwan Science Park, Tainan Technology Park and Shugu LCD Park. The tenant rolls are dominated by optoelectronics, integrated circuits, green energy and biotech companies, which together with more traditional manufacturing generate more than half of the citys economic activity.

Taoyuan, Taiwan: From the Taoyuan International Airport on its northwest corner to its mountainous and thinly populated southeast, Taoyuan is home to 2 million people and 47,000 companies including one-third of the nations top 500 manufacturers. By nourishing local innovation, attracting international entrepreneurs, and building an ever-growing infrastructure for clean energy production, Taoyuan is preparing its people, organizations and environment for global competition.

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada: Located midway between the two coasts of Canada, Winnipeg is the capital of a province rich in agricultural and natural resources. In the 21st Century, the city is pursuing economic growth by better connecting industry and education, while better equipping its large aboriginal population for opportunity. The city has pursued economic growth by connecting industry and education more systematically, and leveraging its indigenous geographical and cultural assets. A public-private R&D organization develops technologies and supply chains for high-performance composites based on agricultural materials, while there has been a programmatic attempt to equip its large aboriginal population with digital tools.

More about the ICF Intelligent Community Awards Program

Before being selected as a Top7 Intelligent Community, these cities were among those named to ICFs list of the Smart21 Communities of the Year. The Smart21 were named in October 2017 during Silicon Harlems Community Forward conference in New York City.

Candidates are evaluated based on seven criteria: six Intelligent Community Indicators, which provide the conceptual framework for understanding all of the factors that determine a community's competitiveness and point to its success in what the Intelligent Community Forum calls, The Broadband Economy, and an annual theme. The 2018 theme is Humanizing Data, which explores the intersection between big data and open data, and the impacts of a data-driven economy on communities. Click here for more information on the 2018 theme.

The Intelligent Community Forum Awards Program concludes in London on 6 June 2018 during the Intelligent Community Forums Annual Summit, when one of the Top7 Intelligent Communities succeeds Melbourne, Victoria, Australia as 2018 Intelligent Community of the Year. The announcement will be made live at a dinner for delegations from cities and communities around the world, as well as the international media, which will cover the awards announcement. For more information or to register for the ICF Summit, click here: http://www.icfsummit.com/

About Intelligent Community Forum

The Intelligent Community Forum (http://www.intelligentcommunity.org), headquartered in New York, is a global movement of 170 cities, metro regions and counties with a think tank at its heart and a mission to make everyones hometown at great place. ICF studies and promotes the best practices of the world's Intelligent Communities as they adapt to the new demands and seize the opportunities presented by information and communications technology (ICT). To help cities and regions build prosperous economies, solve social problems and enrich local cultures, the Intelligent Community Forum conducts research, hosts events around the globe, publishes books, and produces its high-profile annual international awards program. The Forum sponsors research Institutes in North America dedicated to the study of the movement, and national organizations in Canada and Taiwan, both home to many Intelligent Communities. In 2012 ICF was invited to participate at the Nobel Peace Prize conference in Oslo and in 2014, its model and work was recognized by the U.S. Department of Commerce under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which, according to the American government, was "aimed at creating a more flexible and responsive system of workforce development to meet the needs of employers looking to fill 21st century jobs. The Forums membership is made up of 170 designated Intelligent Communities worldwide. For more information, go to http://www.intelligentcommunity.org/icf_membership. For more details on the Intelligent Community Forums recent publications and programs, http://www.intelligentcommunity.org.As a top Sage partner, Faye Business System Group has been invited to sponsor Sage Sessions 2018, kicking off the first of a nationwide tour in Los Angeles on February 13th. In that capacity, FayeBSG will be sponsoring Sage Sessions LA and will be showcasing the benefits of their SugarCRM integration with Sage 100 and other FayeBSG Software Enhancements for Sage 100.

Sage Sessions are one-day events that bring local businesses together to network, gain inspiration through expert advice and tailored content, learn about new Sage technology, and discover ways to best utilize Sage products.

The FayeBSG Sage 100 Integration for SugarCRM delivers the most robust platform for accounting and CRM optimization. As a true CRM cloud solution for Sage 100, the FayeBSG Sage 100 Integration for SugarCRM allows both platforms to communicate with one another, by sending customers, inventory items and sales history from Sage 100 to SugarCRM.

Sage users that enhance their software with FayeBSG Enhancements see an increased value, and ultimately enhanced profitability with their Sage platform.

Other FayeBSG Software Enhancements for Sage include:



Sage AMEX Accounts Payable Integration

UPS and FedEx Integration

Enhanced Customer Deposit Tracking

Sales Intelligence Reports

And much more

Visit https://fayebsg.com/fayebsg-software-for-sage/ to learn more and find their booth at Sage Summit LA 2018 on February 13th.

About Faye Business Systems Group

Faye Business Systems Group is one of only a handful of SugarCRM Elite Partners among 650+ global partners and a Sage Gold Partner. They are known for their breadth of SugarCRM Integration Add-On Products and custom software solutions as well as their strong technical know-how in successful CRM implementations. FayeBSG has built Sugar integrations with ERP software, credit card processing, project management, phone systems, and more.

The FayeBSG team has over two decades of experience, specializing in extensive multi-layered CRM, ERP and marketing integrations. They concentrate on a wide array of high-value CRM, ERP, and marketing automation development and consulting services with services including project management, consulting, system builds, data migration, custom software development, training, and ongoing support.

For more information, call (818) 280-4820, email info(at)fayebsg(dot)com, or visit http://www.fayebsg.com. Connect with Faye Business Systems Group on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.WealthAbility - Way More Money, Way Less Taxes and Financial Freedom Faster We believe you are the best person to control your money, and that taking control of your investing is the best way for you to build massive wealth so you can live the life you desire most. ~ Tom Wheelwright, CEO WealthAbility

Global Tax and Wealth Expert, CPA, CEO and Tax-Free Wealth Author Tom Wheelwright announces the launch of his newest company, WealthAbility, along with a trusted certified network of Tax-Free Wealth CPAs. WealthAbility's mission is to provide successful small business owners and investors with "Way More Money, Way Less Taxes and Financial Freedom Faster."

Wheelwright expands, "We are not financial advisors. Instead, we are a wealth strategy and education company dedicated to the belief that you are fully capable of navigating your own financial future. In fact, we adamantly oppose the idea that business owners or investors need Wall Street, a CFP or anyone else to take their money and manage it for them."

And the volatility of the stock market this past week highlights the need for a new way to invest without worrying about the fluctuations of the markets.

Way More Money - WealthAbility is a platform to help people learn and apply Wheelwright's revolutionary philosophy of wealth-building, in which business owners and investors take control over their financial future by permanently lowering taxes and achieving their financial dreams.

Way Less Taxes - Based on over 20 years of experience leading CPA teams, Wheelwright has developed a formula for clients to reduce taxes by an average of 10-40% and "achieve their financial dreams 18 years faster than the average person."

Financial Freedom Faster - Instead of living someone else's dream, WealthAbility focuses on helping entrepreneurs gain financial freedom "by putting money back in your pockets." Wheelwright emphasizes, "We believe you are the best person to control your money, and that taking control of your investing is the best way for you to build massive wealth so you can live the life you desire most."

Global Tax-Free Wealth Network of CPAs - Initially, the company will focus on providing tax and wealth strategies for people wanting to apply the Tax-Free Wealth concepts to their life and business to reach financial freedom. It will do that through a new, global network of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) called the "Tax-Free Wealth Network." "These professionals are not only among the few CPAs to view taxes and the tax law in the right way," said Wheelwright, "but they also intimately understand the concepts of Tax-Free Wealth and the WealthAbility process for achieving massive financial results. They have undergone extensive training by me and my team. They are, in my opinion, the best qualified CPAs to help build wealth."

In the future, WealthAbility will release a suite of tax-reducing and wealth-building "tools," which will include software and educational courses. Upon release, these tools will be available at http://wealthability.com.

About WealthAbility

WealthAbility is a wealth strategy and education company dedicated to the belief that you are fully capable of navigating your own financial future. The company's mission is to help business owners and investors create "Way More Money, Way Less Taxes and Financial Freedom Faster." WealthAbility CEO Tom Wheelwright is a "Rich Dad Advisor" and author of the bestselling book, Tax-Free Wealth: How to Build Massive Wealth by Permanently Lowering Your Taxes.

About Tom Wheelwright

Tom Wheelwright is a CPA, CEO of WealthAbility (Tempe, Arizona), Best-Selling Author of Tax-Free Wealth, and Founder of ProVision. Wheelwright is a leading wealth and tax expert, global speaker, and Entrepreneur Magazine Contributor. Tom is best known for making taxes fun, easy and understandable, and specializes in helping entrepreneurs and investors build wealth through practical and strategic ways that permanently reduce taxes. As a Rich Dad Advisor to Robert Kiyosaki (Rich Dad Poor Dad), Tom frequently speaks at conferences worldwide to entrepreneurs on these topics. His work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Forbes, Accounting Today, Investor's Business Daily, FOX & Friends, ABC News Radio, NPR, Marketplace and many more media.

Media Contact

Liz Kelly, 310-987-7207BMI Recording artist THE BRILL releases his debut album, "Love & Money" on February 14th as he turns sixty-four. Previewing the neoclassic rock LP's twelve tracks is a bit like rummaging through a box of your best friends old toys. Some will appear familiar, some you will swear were stolen from you, others are prized possessions that were never shared. Given a second listen your ears will adopt bits of the sonic landscape. These and sticky melodies will satisfy and complete your future listening experiences. There are no Dylan-esque moments to be had on this release. More so, the transparent lyrics play on the nature of the LP's title. Track durations are just long enough to make a point but like potato chips, may leave you wanting more. Songs from this solo project will take on a slightly different vibe when performed on the upcoming My Generation Tour by an all female backline. These songs will only be available online in the iTunes store.

THE BRILL, a reckless guitar slinger since the seventh grade, obsessed with the distortion that can be teased out of a single coil pickup and stack of magical boxes. As British rockers were invading the hearts, minds and radios across America, his musical pallet was developing and vulnerable to the intoxicating hooks, licks and grooves of the time.The universe that he draws upon for inspiration has evolved over the last fifty years: party to many garage rock bands, experiencing the British music invasion and countless hours hangin' in shops and clubs famous for their musical heritage. Pleasurepoint Records is the artist's private label.OpenSlate logo OpenSlate is the leading provider of brand safety measurement on social video. I am excited to be joining the Board of OpenSlate and working with OpenSlates management team to make OpenSlate the industry standard for independent third-party measurement of brand safety.

OpenSlate, the leading social video analytics company, today announced Lynda Clarizio to its Board of Directors. Clarizio previously served as the President of Nielsen U.S. Media, where she was responsible for leading the performance of Nielsens Watch business in the United States. Nielsens Watch business provides media and advertising clients with measurement and marketing effectiveness solutions across television, digital, audio and other media.

OpenSlate provides measurement, targeting and analytics to advertisers to help them identify the high quality, brand-safe environments that are the most relevant to their messaging. OpenSlate brand safety solutions are available across all ad-supported videos on YouTube. The company recently announced enterprise partnerships with GroupM, Horizon Media, Dentsu Aegis Network, MAGNA, Publicis Media and Omnicom Media Group.

Brand safety is the next frontier of measurement, providing trust to advertisers that their advertising will not appear alongside harmful or misaligned content, said Lynda Clarizio. OpenSlate is the leading provider of brand safety measurement on social video. I am excited to be joining the Board of OpenSlate and working with OpenSlates management team to make OpenSlate the industry standard for independent third-party measurement of brand safety.

Lynda Clarizio is an industry luminary who brings a wealth of expertise and perspective to OpenSlate, said OpenSlate CEO Mike Henry. Her experience in building a global measurement business is invaluable and we are thrilled to have her join our team.

Prior to Nielsen, Clarizio was Executive Vice President for Corporate Development and Operations at AppNexus, a leading programmatic advertising platform, and spent ten years at AOL where she held a variety of executive positions, including President of AOLs consolidated advertising businesses. Clarizio is a recognized leader in advertising and media, having been named one of 2017s 50 Most Powerful Women in New York by Crains.

Clarizio joins a board that includes representatives from Spring Mountain Capital, North Base Media, Fisher Investments, and StarVest Partners.

ABOUT OPENSLATE

OpenSlate provides industry-leading content analytics to advertisers navigating the complexity of social video. The company's global data platform offers insight into the nature and quality of content on YouTube and is used by every major advertising holding company. OpenSlate is an inaugural member of the YouTube Measurement Program - which certifies that OpenSlate uses the highest quality methodology, accuracy in calculations, and clarity in metric definitions. The company was named one of the hottest ad tech upstarts of 2017 by Business Insider. Learn more at http://www.openslatedata.com.

Press Contact:

Kate Ritchie

212-660-2422

kate(at)openslatedata(dot)comUnanimous AI is a Silicon Valley company that has pioneered a new form of AI aimed at amplifying human intelligence, rather than replacing it. Swarm AI technology has made headlines by tapping into and amplifying the intelligence of groups to successfully predict the Kentucky Derby, TIMEs Person of the Year, Academy Awards, and the Presidents approval rating, and was recently named one of the top AI Advancements of 2017 by Disruption.

The SXSW (South by Southwest) Interactive Festival has named Unanimous AI and its Swarm AI technology a finalist for a 2018 SXSW Interactive Innovation Award. The 21st annual SXSW Interactive Innovation Awards celebrate the most forward-thinking developments in the connected world. Swarm AI is nominated in a new category, AI & Machine Learning, that honors digital systems with the ability to adapt to changing data, stimuli and circumstances; replicating learning, problem solving and cognition.

Swarm AI technology has made headlines by tapping into and amplifying the intelligence of groups to successfully predict the Kentucky Derby, TIMEs Person of the Year, Academy Awards, and even the Presidents approval rating, and was recently named one of the top AI Advancements of 2017 by Disruption.

In 2017, Unanimous unveiled Swarm Insight, harnessing the power of the Artificial Swarm Intelligence to produce deeper insights and optimized decision-making for Fortune 500 corporations.

Swarm AI technology combines real-time human input with artificial intelligence algorithms, optimizing the combined knowledge, wisdom, insights and intuition of the target population. Inspired by the biological process of Swarm Intelligence, the technology is modeled after the way birds flock, bees swarm, and fish school to amplify their intelligence and solve complex problems. While humans have not evolved this ability naturally, researchers at Unanimous AI have enabled it artificially, allowing groups of people to amplify their intelligence by forming real-time swarms online.

SXSW experts and industry peers judge entrants on four criteria: creativity, form, function and overall experience. After reviewing hundreds of applications, the advisory board of SXSW Interactive Innovation Awards jurists selected Swarm AI and four other finalists from around the world for the AI & Machine Learning category. SXSW describes the finalists as trendsetting new contributions to the connected world.

Were honored to have our Swarm AI technology named a finalist for the SXSW Interactive Innovation Awards," said Dr. Louis Rosenberg, CEO of Unanimous AI. And with other finalists in the AI category including technology powerhouses like Toyota and IBM Watson, we are pleased to be in such good company.

Swarm AI and the other finalists will exhibit their work, including hands-on demos, for SXSW registrants Sunday, March 11, at the Finalist Showcase where judges will complete their second round of voting and determine the winners in each category, plus six additional honors, including Best of Show, Peoples Choice, Breakout Trend of the Event, Speaker of the Event and Meme of the Year. Festival organizers will announce the winners at the Innovation Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, March 13, 2018, in Austin.

About Unanimous AI

Unanimous AI is a Silicon Valley company that has pioneered Swarm AI technology, a new form of AI that combines real-time human insights and AI algorithms modeled after natural swarms. Unanimous has generated an impressive track record of predictions, forecasts and insights. The companys technology has outperformed traditional AI systems and human experts in many high-profile challenges. Swarm AI was recognized among Tech Republic's 6 most exciting AI advances and among the Top 10 Tech Trends Transforming Humanity by Peter Diamandis. For more about Unanimous A.I., visit http://unanimous.ai

What is Swarm Intelligence? Dr. Louis Rosenberg takes TED stage to explain

Swarm AI Predicted The Kentucky Derby: Newsweek covered it here

How Swarm AI Works: Read the Academic Paper Here

Swarm Insight, Swarm and Swarm AI are trademarks of Unanimous AI and may be registered in the United States and/or other countries. Any other trademarks or registered trademarks mentioned in this release are the intellectual property of their respective owners.

###Breaking Cover

Michele Rigby Assad, a former counterterrorism officer and Middle East expert began her "Breaking Cover" book launch in New York City last week and is now a Best Seller for Assad.

Breaking Cover was featured on NBC's TODAY, In The Market with Janet Parshall on Moody Radio, The Lars Larson Show, Wilkow Majority on SiriusXM, The Eric Metaxas Show, Christian Broadcast News, and The Chad Benson Show on Radio America. Assad's Breaking Cover is leading the story this coming week with multiple news outlets nationwide.

Assad will be featured by the SPY Museum in Washington, D.C. on February 22, 2018, for the official book launch of Breaking Cover My Secret Life in the CIA and What It Taught Me about What's Worth Fighting For. For tickets please visit: https://www.spymuseum.org/calendar/detail/breaking-cover/2018-02-22/

About Michele:

Michele Rigby Assad joined the CIA in January 2002 and spent a decade working as an undercover intelligence officer in the Directorate of Operations. Specializing in counterterrorism and counterintelligence, Michele worked in several hot spots, including Iraq at the height of the war. To date, Michele has lived in six countries and traveled to more than forty others.

Michele is an author, public speaker, trainer, and security consultant focused on the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa. She holds a masters degree from Georgetown Universitys School of Foreign Service and a political science degree from Palm Beach Atlantic University. Her forthcoming book Breaking Cover: My Secret Life in the CIA and What It Taught Me about Whats Worth Fighting For, will be available February 2018. She and her husband, Joseph, live in Florida.Len Berg, Executive Director of the Western Region, Red Clay Consulting We are delighted to have Len as part of the Red Clay team, said Paul Marnell, Red Clay Consulting Chief Executive Officer. He is a proven leader who has been instrumental in the start-up, growth, and turnaround of six early to mid-stage technology and service companies." Past News Releases RSS Spaulding Youth Center Honored with...

Spaulding Youth Center Honored with...

Spaulding Youth Center Receives...

Red Clay Consulting is pleased to welcome Len Berg as Executive Director of the Western Region. In this position, Mr. Berg will be responsible for establishing highly-collaborative, trusted relationships between Red Clay Consulting, its clients, and their service delivery partners.

With over 40 years of experience in technology, software, and service management, Mr. Berg is highly qualified for a leadership role in this strategic region of the United States. Mr. Bergs professional experience is primarily in electric and gas utility functions, such as renewables, meter-to-cash, customer service, business process outsourcing, generation, transmission and distribution, and environmental management. He brings proven success as a business development and management services executive within North American utilities and the Fortune 1000 energy marketplace.

Prior to joining Red Clay, Berg has held executive leadership positions at Management Analysis Company, Edison Energy, Accenture, Vertex, Enviance, Silicon Energy/Itron, and Indus International/ABB. In 2015, he was recruited as the Senior Vice President of Client Services at Edison Energy to help develop and launch this brand-new company. Mr. Bergs leadership helped build an extremely effective organization, which uncovered an emerging renewables market of Design-Build-Own-Operate-Maintain (DBOOM) electric infrastructure projects. While at Edison Energy, his team built a $1.5B+ sales pipeline and was selected on a very large electric infrastructure DBOOM project in California. Mr. Berg also worked to secure numerous key clients and helped successfully integrate three acquired firms and an additional existing Edison International company into Edison Energy.

We are delighted to have Len as part of the Red Clay team, said Paul Marnell, Red Clay Consulting Chief Executive Officer. He is a proven leader who has been instrumental in the start-up, growth, and turnaround of six early to mid-stage technology and service companies. We are excited to see how our expanding business portfolio in the Western region will be enhanced by his impressive industry knowledge.

Berg has a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Florida State University and a Master of Ministry Leadership from Rockbridge Seminary. He and his family have resided in San Diego for over 30 years.

About Red Clay Consulting

Red Clay, a leading consultancy for utilities, delivers seamless integrations of leading software systems. Industry experience, technical expertise, and an unyielding commitment to client success combine to deliver turnkey solutions that maximize value. As a Gold Level member of the Oracle Partner Network (OPN), Red Clay Consulting is the preferred choice among utilities for software integration and managed services. Red Clays unparalleled experience, expertise, and execution fuel project success. To learn more about Red Clay, visit: http://www.redclay.com.Figure 1: Q1'16 - Q4'17 OLED Revenues and Growth

Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) has published Q4'17 OLED shipment, revenue and market share results. As expected, OLEDs had a record quarter in Q4'17 on a significant jump in panel shipments for the Apple iPhone X and for OLED TV panels during the holiday season. As shown in Figure 1, OLED panel revenues rose 62% Q/Q and 120% Y/Y in Q4'17 to a record $8.8B. For 2017, OLED revenues grow 57% to $23.2B.

By application on a revenue basis, smartphones gained share in Q4'17 as shown in Figure 2, reaching 90.2% of the smartphone market at $7.95B. For the year, smartphones accounted for $20.3B out of the $23.2B market or 87.4%, up from 86.7% the prior year. OLED TV panel revenues rose 35% Q/Q and 51% Y/Y in Q4'17 to $438M and a 5.0% share, down from 6.0% in Q3'17. For the year, OLED TV panels were the second largest OLED application on a revenue basis with a 5.6% share and generated $1.3B in revenues, up 49% Y/Y. Smart Watch panels were the 3rd largest application in 2017 with a 3.2% share. No other application accounted for more than a 2% share due to the dominance of smartphones. On an area basis, it was much closer with smartphones leading with a 64% to 33% advantage over TVs for 2017.

By panel supplier, Samsung earned a 90.1% share in Q4'17 on $7.9B in revenues as shown in Figure 3, up 63% Q/Q and 222% Y/Y. It was followed by LG Display at 8.8% in Q4'17 and 8.6% for the year. Although six other suppliers earned OLED revenues, no other supplier had more than a 0.5% share in Q4'17 or for the year. Despite their low share, Chinese OLED suppliers did enjoy strong growth, up 98% to $278M and are expected to jump 177% in 2018 to $771M. On a unit basis, China's OLED shipments rose 124% to 11.7M and are expected to rise 143% in 2018 to 28.4M.

The report also tracks shipments and share by customer. Samsung was the leading OLED brand in 2017 with a 47% share on over $10B in OLED panel procurement. Apple was second with a 29% share. In Q4'17, Apple led with a 52% share with Samsung at 30% due to the iPhone X ramp. LG was the #3 brand with a 5% share. Apple is expected to lead in 2018 as well followed by Samsung and LG.

The report also tracks OLED form factor covering rigid vs. flexible and soon foldable and rollable. On a revenue basis, flexible OLEDs led rigid OLEDs in revenues on an all application basis for the 3rd consecutive quarter as shown in Figure 4, reaching a 75% share in Q4'17 on 100% Q/Q growth to $6.6B. For 2017, flexible revenues outpaced rigid revenues with a 59% to 41% share advantage on 251% Y/Y growth with rigid revenues down 14%. In just smartphones, flexible OLEDs reached a 48% unit share in Q4'17, up from 33%, helped by the iPhone X ramp. On a $US basis, the higher priced flexible OLEDs had an 80% share in Q4'17, up from 66% on 104% growth to $6.4B.

In terms of the OLED smartphone market in Q4'17, shipments rose 31% Q/Q and 24% Y/Y to 123M, a record high with rigid shipments at 63M and flexible shipments at 60M. 5" was the leading rigid size while 5.8" was the leading flexible size and leading size overall led by iPhone X shipments. Samsung was the leading customer on a unit basis with a 49% share followed by Apple at 29% and Oppo and Vivo at 7% shares respectively as shown in Figure 5. Samsung was also the leading panel supplier in Q4'17 with a 96% unit share followed by LG Display with 2%.

While the flexible OLED smartphone growth was extremely impressive, OLED TV panel growth was also impressive in Q4'17. OLED TV panel shipments rose 41% Q/Q and 106% Y/Y to 635K units with 55" 4K leading with a 66% share followed by 65" 4K with a 28% share. On a revenue basis in Q4'17, OLED TV panels rose 35% Q/Q and 51% Y/Y to $438M with 55" 4K holding a 53% share and 65" 4K holding a 41% share. For all of 2017 on a revenue basis, we show 65" 4K holding a slight 46% to 45% share advantage over 55" 4K. By customer, LGE was the #1 OLED TV brand at every size and resolution for the year and for Q4'17 on both a unit and revenue basis. It enjoyed a 72% unit share overall for the year followed by Sony at 14%.

This report also tracks fab utilization and does show a significant drop at Samsung Display due to over-reliance on a single model from a single customer who is unlikely to lower prices due to significant pricing power. While OLED revenues are currently forecasted to drop 29% Q/Q to $6.3B, it will still represent a 48% Y/Y increase. In addition, in Q3'18 OLEDs are expected to establish a new record high as OLED penetration increases into new smartphones as OLED prices fall. DSCC's Quarterly OLED Shipment and Fab Utilization Report tracks monthly OLED and LTPS LCD fab utilization and forecasts OLED shipments by application, form factor, size, resolution, panel supplier and customer through 2022. For more information, please contact Dustin at dustin(at)displaysupplychain(dot)com and (832) 451-4909.

About DSCC

Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) was formed by experienced display market analysts from throughout the display supply chain and delivers valuable insights through consulting, syndicated reports and events. The company has offices in the US, Japan, and China. They can be found on the web at http://www.displaysupplychain.com and can be reached in the US at info(at)displaysupplychain(dot)com or (512) 577-3672.AP recognized for several awards at MCA's Awards of Excellence Gala.

Adolfson & Peterson Construction (AP) was honored for several awards at Minnesota Construction Associations (MCA) 23rd Annual Awards of Excellence Gala on Wednesday, January 31. AP received awards in the following categories: New Project Total Value Under $15 Million; Green/Sustainable Project; and MCA Member of the Year. Every year, MCA hosts the Awards of Excellence Gala to acknowledge and honor construction projects and members that make substantial contributions to the community and association. The gala was held again at the Minneapolis Marriott West with nearly 200 construction industry professionals in attendance, including APs project teams to accept their awards.

The beautiful new Wayzata Mill Street Parking Ramp won MCAs Awards of Excellence for New Construction Under $15 Million. The Mill Street Parking Ramp included construction of a new 385-stall, 93,700 SF parking structure for the downtown City of Wayzata. Work consisted of a cast-in-place concrete with a post-tensioned cable 2nd floor deck. Exterior facade consisted of precast panels with a thin-brick facing, factory finished metal wall panels and decorative ipe wood cladding. A well-deserved project recognition was received from team members in attendance  AP, HGA Architects and City of Wayzata officials.

The unique and challenging University of Minnesota Combined Heat and Power Plant won MCAs Awards of Excellence for Green/Sustainable Project. This project included the renovation of the 104-year-old Main Energy Plant to add combined heat and power generation equipment to create a multi-functional building that is 83 percent energy-efficient (more than double the efficiency of a coal-fired power plant). The new Main Energy Plant connects to the existing Gopher substation and the Universitys utility system, generating electric power and steam for the Minneapolis campus. Fueled by natural gas, the Main Energy Plant will save the University an estimated net $2 million annually in utility operating costs and is a key investment in the Universitys climate action plan to reduce campus emissions in half by the year 2020. A key and very notable project received much earned recognition by project team members from AP, Braun Intertec and the University of Minnesota.

APs marketing coordinator, Allie Zeman also received MCAs Awards of Excellence Member of the Year for her dedicated time and commitment to the organization, nominated by the members. AP also received Merit Awards for The Landing  New Construction Over $15 Million; City of Golden ValleyBrookview Community Center  Government Construction; and Post Tension (PT) Plugs Innovation  Research, Innovation or Use of Technology.

The MCA is a non-profit association dedicated to providing networking, continuing education and recognition opportunities for professionals in the construction industry. For more information, contact the MCA Office at (952) 928-4646, email info(at)mnconstruction(dot)org or visit http://www.mnconstruction.org.

About AP

Adolfson & Peterson Construction (AP) is a U.S.-based, privately held firm that is consistently ranked among the top 50 construction managers and general contractors in the nation. Founded in 1946, the company has built longstanding commitments to the regions in which it operates and is known nationally for its innovative and collaborative approaches within the building industry. AP serves the education, multifamily, healthcare, commercial, municipal and senior living market segments from its offices in Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Minneapolis and Phoenix. For more information, visit http://www.a-p.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.Hoover Dam on the Colorado River President Trump's budget for Reclamation shows his strong commitment to our mission of delivering water and generating hydropower in the West.

Today, President Donald Trump proposed a $1.049 billion Fiscal Year 2019 budget for the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation. The budget supports the Department's goals of ensuring the provision of secure and reliable water supplies, the efficient generation of American energy, celebration of America's resources and recreational opportunities, and fulfilling commitments to tribal nations.

Reclamation is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second-largest producer of hydroelectric power; its projects and programs are an important driver of economic growth in the Western states. Reclamation manages water for agricultural, municipal and industrial uses, and provides flood risk reduction and recreation for millions of people.

"President Trump's budget for Reclamation shows his strong commitment to our mission of delivering water and generating hydropower in the West," Commissioner Brenda Burman said. "The request also highlights how critical Reclamation's facilities are to the nation's infrastructure while also supporting tribal nations."

Reclamation's budget is offset by current receipts in the Central Valley Project Restoration Fund of $62.0 million, resulting in net discretionary budget authority of $987.0 million. Of this amount, $891.0 million is for Water and Related Resources, $61.0 million is for Policy and Administration, and $35 million is for California Bay Delta. Permanent appropriations in FY 2019 total $101.0 million.

The funding proposed in Reclamation's FY 2019 budget emphasizes Reclamation's core mission of reliable water delivery and efficient hydropower generation to address the water demands of a growing population; and to assist states, tribes and local entities in solving water resource issues. It also emphasizes investment in modernizing existing infrastructure -- beyond the operation and maintenance of Reclamation facilities -- in a safe, economic and reliable manner, ensuring measures are in place to protect the public and Reclamation facilities for the next 100 years.

Reclamation's dams, water conveyances and power generating facilities are critical components of the Nation's infrastructure. The safety and reliability of its dams is one of Reclamation's highest priorities. The Dam Safety Program is critical to effectively manage risks to the downstream public, property and natural resources. The budget request of $88.1 million for the Safety of Dams Program provides for risk management activities at Reclamation's high and significant hazard dams where loss of life or significant economic damage would likely occur if a dam was to fail. The budget also includes activities for several dam safety modifications, as well as for Interior's Dam Safety Program, which Reclamation oversees.

Furthermore, the proposed budget includes $45.0 million for various projects for Extraordinary Maintenance (XM) activities across Reclamation. Reclamation's XM budget is part of its overall Asset Management Strategy that relies on condition assessments, condition/performance metrics, technological research and deployment, and strategic collaboration to continue to improve the management of its assets and deal with aging infrastructure challenges. Significant additional XM items are directly funded by revenues, water and power customers, or other federal agencies.

Reclamation's projects and programs support tribal nation efforts and Native American programs. A total of $127.4 million in funding is requested for Indian water rights settlements. This includes $69.6 million for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, $12.8 million for the Crow Tribe Water Rights Settlement, $8.3 million for the Aamodt Litigation Settlement, and $10.0 million for the Blackfeet Water Rights Settlement. Other efforts to support tribal nations are long standing and range from species protection to rural water projects.

This budget request continues to support water delivery and quality concerns that address the special requirements in the Colorado River basin and in the state of California. While last year's precipitation was beneficial, the long-term impacts from droughts are not recovered in a few wet years. Groundwater must be replenished and the hydrologic system will need time to recover. The FY 2019 budget request through programs, such as the Lower Colorado River Operations Program ($31.2 million) and the Central Valley Project ($147.5 million), continues efforts to find a long-term solution to achieve a reliable water supply and quality for both areas.

The FY 2019 budget request supports and emphasizes activities designed to prevent and combat the infestation of quagga and zebra mussels across Reclamation states. These invasive species are rapidly reproducing and have infested multiple operational areas of Reclamation facilities. Research is continuing to find ways to impede the mussels' populations, and funding will support, in cooperation with the Western Governors Association, Reclamation activities established in the Quagga-Zebra Mussel Action Plan. This includes working with states and tribes to keep mussels from infesting the Columbia River Basin in the Pacific Northwest.

Other aspects of the FY 2019 budget proposal include:

Central Valley Project Restoration Fund - The budget of $62.0 million is expected to be offset in total by discretionary receipts, which are adjusted on an annual basis to maintain payments totaling $30.0 million (October 1992 price levels) on a three-year rolling average basis. The budget for the CVPRF was developed after considering the effects of the San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act, which redirects certain fees, estimated at $2.0 million in FY 2019, collected from the Friant Division water users to the San Joaquin Restoration Fund.

Desalination and Water Purification Research Program - This program supports desalination research, development and demonstrations for converting unusable waters into useable water supplies. The FY 2019 request of $2.9 million supports projects in the laboratory-scale research studies, pilot-scale testing and full-scale testing. Funding also supports the operation and maintenance of Reclamation's Brackish Groundwater National Desalination Research Facility, which supports testing projects and potential work from Cooperative Research and Development Agreements, including one focused on produced waters from oil and gas extraction activities.

Science and Technology Program - The FY 2019 request of $11.0 million supports water and power technology prize competitions, technology transfer, and dissemination/outreach activities addressing critical water and power management obstacles. The S&T Program also supports the monitoring, detection and control of invasive mussels.

The Site Security program - The budget request will continue Reclamation's ongoing site-security program at $26.2 million, which includes physical security upgrades at key facilities, guards and patrols, anti-terrorism program activities and security risk assessments.

WaterSMART Program - Endorsing Theodore Roosevelt's principles of land and wildlife conservation, Reclamation strives to ensure future water delivery through the conservation of the resources available now. The funding proposed in Reclamation's FY 2019 WaterSMART budget ($19.9 million) supports Reclamation's collaboration with non-federal partners in efforts to address emerging water demands and water shortage issues in the West.

To view the budget request for Reclamation, see http://www.usbr.gov/budget.Welcome Guest! You Are Here:The deceased has been identified as 31-year-old Richmond Ofori, also known as Papa Yaw, who operates a mobile money business in the area.

READ ALSO: Police shoot 3 criminals dead at Weija

The incident happened on Saturday evening after two armed robbers on a motorbike invaded the shop of the victim to steal his money.

The deceased was shot twice, leading to his instant death, while another colleague of his who was present at the scene also received gun wounds in the leg.

The armed robbers reportedly bolted with some amount of money, leaving the mobile money teller dead and his colleague currently in critical condition at the Komfo Anokye Hospital.

Speaking to Accra-based Citi FM, Assembly Member for Kyekyere-Kyeraase Electoral, Michael Adu Poku, said the perpetrators of the crime are not yet known.

He explained that after the incident, everybodys attention was on the victims so no one took note of the assailants who committed the crime.

Attacks on mobile money vendors by armed robbers have become rampant around the country in recent months.

READ ALSO: 2 shot in Mobile Money robbery attack at Busia Junction

Since the turn of the year, about four cases of robbery have already been recorded by the Police, where tellers have been left either wounded or dead.

Meanwhile, the Accra Regional Police Commander, DCOP George Alex Mensah, has said it is impossible for his outfit to provide adequate security for every mobile money business.

According to him, there are so many mobile money joints around the country, making it almost impossible for the Police to guard all of them.

The mobile money business is becoming an albatross. The rate at which they are springing up is alarming and they spring up at places which are not safe and I wonder who gives them permission to set up these businesses. These are business ventures and they are dealing with money, DCOP Mensah said.Despite certain biological and societal barriers that may slow their efforts and progress. They never stop but continue to push forward. Imagine my delight when I found out that the 8 richest person in Ghana was a woman.

Here is our list of the top 5 richest women in Ghana.

Grace Amey-Obeng

Grace Amey-Obeng is the CEO of Forever Clair. She is the fifth richest woman in the country. Her net worth is estimated at $100 million which is sourced mainly from the cosmetic industry. Mrs Amey Obeng received her beauty education at Croydon College, London. She later returned to Ghana and with $100 started her own business. Now Forever Clair group of companies includes a beauty clinic (FC Skin and Beauty Klinik), a firm that supplies salon equipment and cosmetics (Forever Clair Skin Care) and a college (FC Beauty College). It has eight branches in Ghana and exports to Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Togo, Ivory Coast, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

Gifty Lamptey

The 4 richest woman in Ghana is Mrs.Gifty Lamptey, the CEO of Sidalco Group of Companies which includes; Sidalco Construction and Roads Ltd; Del Estates; Empire Concretes Ltd and Dominion International Petroleum Ltd. She is estimated at $135 million as her net worth. Serving on several boards such as of Ladies of the Cross International Ministries; an organization that focuses on philanthropy where she serves as the chair. Mrs. Lamptey is a widow blessed with three children.

Kate Quartey Papafio

The first female cable manufacturer in the ECOWAS subregionis the 3 richest woman in Ghana. Founded in 1992. Also the leading producer of electrical cables in Ghana, she has an estimated net worth of $250 million. Reroy Power Limited is part of the Reroy Group of companies which was founded in 1992 which includes Reroy Energy Limited and Reroy Cables Limited. The company has a strong presence in the West African sub region. Where it provides products and services to the private sector, general consumers and utilities throughout the region.

Theresa Oppong

Theresa Oppong is the CEO of Manet Group which is a 100% Ghanaian real estate development holding company, which develops commercial and residential property. The company is the second largest in the industry. It was established 18 years ago, and has risen to the ranks to be listed among the top 20 companies in the country. Placing her as the 2 richest woman in the country. Her net worth is estimated at $420 million. Among the group of companies are Manet Housing, a real estate development firm, Manet Paradise, a three star hotel resort, Manet Construction a civil engineering company and Manet Towers

Patricia Poku-DiabyKnown in Showbiz as a brand that goes classy most times in suit and tie, the actor's new Photos reveal an absolutely different look of himself in African traditional outfit. With the outfit made in Guinea, the Fashion Supreme showcases the rich culture of the African people through fashion.Nana Kwarteng was caught on camera showing off sinister hand signs associated with the Illuminati.

He believes the true meaning of the 666 and its underlying messages is affiliated with the Illuminati group.

The Illuminati is an alleged global elite that secretly runs the world by infiltrating the democratic process, and from behind the scenes, and is often linked to claims of Satanism.

Nana Opoku Kwarteng, the father of Ebony Reigns, has expressed sadness over the death of her daughter.

He was short of words when journalists caught up with him at his Dansoman residence.

Speaking to the media over the death, Nana Kwarteng said he "didn't believe that until it was confirmed by the Regional Police Commander or something that my girl is dead."

He said the last time he spoke with Ebony was last week Wednesday before her death on Thursday night.

This same evangelist has in previous reports accused top Kumawood stars such as Nana Ama McBrown, Maame Serwaa of allegedly being Illuminati members.

Meanwhile, Nana Opoku Kwarteng has appealed to prophets to stop associating his daughters death to voodoo.Dr. Bawumia traveled to the UK in February to seek medical attention after he complained of not feeling too well.

READ ALSO: Bawumia says CCTV cameras to be fixed in all police stations

He went on to spend 12 days in the UK as part of his medical leave, before returning to Ghana after recuperating from his illness.

The Vice President joined congregants of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Christ Temple, at Abossey Okai, on Sunday, 11 February 2018, to thank and praise God for healing him.

According to him, his recovery would have been impossible if not for the hand of God, whiles also urging the public to continue to pray for President Akufo-Addo and other government officials.

I know and I believe that the hand of God healed me and I came back, Dr. Bawumia said.

On my return I believe that as God says that for all things we have to be thankful and I came here to thank God for my successful healing and also ask you to pray for my boss Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the first lady, the chief of staff and the ministers.

READ ALSO: How Ghanaians on social media are reacting to veeps return from UK medical leave

Dr. Bawumia was joined by his wife, Samira Bawumia, the Chief of Staff, Madam Frema Osei Opare, Senior Minister, Yaw Osafo Marfo and several other State officials as he fellowshipped with members of the ICGC.

The Vice President also thanked the government machinery for their support during his time on the sick bed, reserving special praise for his wife, who he described as a chief nurse.

They all stood by me. I also want to thank my lovely wife Samira. Even though there were nurses she was the chief nurse, and she seized all my phones and made sure I was resting, he remarked.

Bawumia arrives in Ghana from medical leave

He further stated that he was so moved by the prayers all across the country and the churches and that made me realised that with God all things are possible.He said, "The sensibility and sensitivity of Isaac Adongo to financial and economic matters is too empty to appreciate and comprehend the significance of the remarkable achievements of President Akufo-Addo and Bawumia's Government".

READ ALSO: This NDC MP owes GN Bank according to published defaulters

Hon Adongo said: "The President is now suffering from Dr. Bawumia's empty analysis. If your Ministers inflate contract and 44% of these contracts are rejected from being pushed through sole sourcing, how can you just put the proposed contract sums together and say you have saved the state those money?"

But Razak Opoku thinks Hon Adongo should stay clear of issues in finance and economics and should stop criticizing the President.

"Maybe, Isaac Adongo indebtedness to GN Bank is causing him to make babbling and unconcise statements or speeches concentrated with 'bullshit' or 'nonsense' against Akufo-Addo and Bawumia", he charged in a statement released to the media.He said his wife who was away with him on medical leave in the UK, played the role of a chief nurse and ensured that he strictly complied with his medications.

He went on to spend 12 days in the UK as part of his medical leave, before returning to Ghana.

Dr Bawumia told congregants at the International Central Gospel Church, Abosey Okai on Sunday where he attended a thanksgiving service to thank God for healing him.

"I want to give thanks to my lovely wife Samira, even though there were nurses, she was the Chief nurse and she seized all my phones and made sure I was resting and not trying to do anything but rest. So I really thank her so much, the doctor said that, you said that the battle is the Lords but today the Lord has caught up with you, you have to rest," he said.

According to him, his recovery would have been impossible if not for the "hand of God" urging the public to continue to pray for President Akufo-Addo and other government officials.Speaking on Neat FM's "Ghana Montie" show, the fiery regional chairman proclaimed that, "What President Nana Addo is doing for Ghana now is marvelous. This man [President Nana Addo] should rather be a President for Africa. He is very capable of changing the whole of Africa with his style of leadership.

He also said, the biggest opposition party, NDC will never return to power in Ghana again. He thinks the NPP will rule Ghana forever based on the marvelous performance of Nana Addo.This was disclosed by the US Embassy in a statement that was presented during a press conference. It stated that USAID collaborated with the Nigerian Ministry of Budget and National Planning, the Nigerian Ministries of Health, Agriculture, Power, and Education, and state-level government counterparts to structure the bilateral assistance agreement, which runs through 2020.

Trump said was in continuation of US support for development goals outlined in a Development Objectives Assistance Agreement signed between both countries.

It stated that, Nearly half of the new funding ($44 million) will support HIV/AIDS control through the Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The remainder will help northeast Nigeria increase agricultural productivity and economic growth ($15 million); strengthen education ($11 million); support good governance ($10.5 million); and improve water and sanitation infrastructure ($9 million).Tanzania is one of the world's largest cannabis producers.

"We have decided to put a stop to the cannabis culture," Arumeru administrative secretary Timotheo Mzava said during Saturday's operation.

"Some local officials are themselves complicit (in the trade) and we cannot accept that," Mzava said, noting that three such officials were on the run.

"The government will carry out this operation in all corners of the country. We are going to arrest all persons implicated and nationalise all vehicles found to be carrying even the smallest quantity of cannabis," the minister vowed this week.

Tanzania sits on a clutch of major east African drugs routes with Arusha a key cannabis-producing area.

Much of its crop is well hidden in the country's vast swathes of natural forest.

Although the drug is illegal, a combination of corruption and limited resources mean the authorities have struggled to stamp out the trade.

In contrast, neighbouring states including Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique and Uganda have seen eradication campaigns enjoy some success.Stake holders and consultants have fueled excitement with projections that online shopping in Africa is projected to grow to $75 billion by 2025, yet hopes have been tempered by high customer acquisition costs and a failure of consumer behavior to live up to expectations.

Konga launched in Nigeria in 2012, but after four years the company had a paltry 184,000 active users, 1% of Nigerias population. In January, Rocket Internets Africa e-commerce giant Jumia announced they were closing their e-commerce platform in Rwanda and six months earlier announced they were closing Jumia Marketplace in Nigeria.

How did well-funded and talented teams miss such an opportunity?

E-commerce is a $2 trillion global industry, but contribution from African markets has been weak. Headlines touting the rising African middle class omit that middle class in the region includes anyone able to spend two dollars a day, and the consuming class  those able to spend $10 a day  makes up just 10% of Africas population.

In 2013, Jumia was expected to become Africas Amazon and reach profitability within a year and a half by bringing shoppers online. Years later, however, 76% of Nigerian consumers still visit traditional markets an average of 10 times per month and 67% patronize local kiosks even more frequently. Jumia and Konga offered incentives such as free last-mile delivery, but efforts soon fell flat in the face of widespread skepticism.

Low digital literacy and trust deficits mean that consumers value the experience of buying from familiar faces and purchasing small affordable quantities on a daily basis more than the convenience of going online. According to McKinsey, 85% of Nigerias social fashionistas would not go shopping alone. Shopping remains an important social experience and person-to-person engagement, as well as direct sale thorugh social media channels, drives decision-making behind purchases.

Putting ones eggs in a single geographic basket is a dangerous game in markets where economic headwinds and currency risk can be substantial drivers to already fragile consumer spending. In 2016 Nigeria entered its first recession in two decades, costing some 8 million people their jobs. Coupled with a 50% devaluation of the Naira, consumers purchasing ability, particularly for imported goods, was hit hard.

Kenya and South Africa have recently felt their own shocks, and such economic waves are unlikely to completely disappear on the continent in the near-term. Investors looking for fast wins in concentrated markets and who are unwilling to ride market volatility have proven to be disappointed.

Large, foreign players, looking to add topline growth have set their sights on Africa, contributing to a fiercely competitive environment. With the evolution of payments products, including Flutterwaves GetBarter, African customers are now able to shop global online platforms, such as Alibabas Aliexpress, with an almost-limitless inventory selection.

International apparel platforms such as Asos offer free international shipping to many African markets (making delivery cheaper from London than the minimum $2 charge for purchases within Lagos) and whispers in the the local market allude to Amazon opening warehouses in Nairobi and Lagos. Local player, Mall for Africa gives consumers access to a wide range of U.S. retailers and allows them to pay using local mobile money, debit card, or a bank account.

Unfortunately, local-only players are forced to race to the bottom, undercutting one another in high-volume, low-margin strategies dependent on large marketing budgets.

A lack of infrastructure can lower firm productivity by up to 40%, eroding profitability in already narrow-margin ecommerce businesses. Low internet penetration - only 22% of Africans today have online access, the meagre availability of financial services (including supply chain financing for suppliers and penetration of payments products for consumers), poor logistics networks, and weak ICT systems remain obstacles in the region.

As long as these barriers persist, local e-commerce companies replicating models from Seattle or Hangzhou without those companies resources and internal infrastructure will find it difficult to succeed. Jumia and Konga experimented with cash-on-delivery as a workaround for skeptical or unbanked customers found new challenges in terms of driver safety and theft as well as a high rate of rejected orders: Konga has since eliminated this service. The companies also found it necessary to build their own courier fleets, as the existing postal and logistics providers were unreliable.

Ultimately, the time may not be right for mainstream online retail in Africa. Winning online in Africa markets requires a long-term persistence to change (or adapt to) consumption habits, geographic diversification, and overcoming infrastructure gaps. First-mover advantage can take time to manifest: this is as true in the U.S. as in Africa.

If the next wave of e-commerce companies can weather the coming years, learn from their peers, and reform their models, they may survive long enough to reap the benefits of pioneering the wave.It is in Naija you'll see a student studying for an exam with his legs in a bucket of water.

Dipping our legs in a bowl or bucket of water is believed to be one of the effective means of casting away the spirits that make us sleep while reading.

In January, a research conducted by a University in the United Kingdom, Brunel University showed that Nigerian student also use alcohol to study for exam. The research reports say the students believe liquor helps to boost their memory.

That is one way to studying for examination in Nigeria as reported by Brunel University, there are other means Nigerian students prepare for exams and here are five of such means.

Overnight study

Studying overnight is a common practice among some Nigerian students. These set of students try their best to deny themselves the comfort of their bed to study all night. Students who prefer to study at night find the use of coffee helpful to stay awake all night. All these students need is a cup of coffee to keep themselves awake and focused.

Tutorials

Organising tutorials is another popular means popular among Nigerian students to prepare for exams. This is sometimes organised by senior students for the junior ones.

And when this is not the case, you'll see a student, who is adjudged to be very brilliant teaching his classmates to refresh their minds on a topic they have been taught.

The tutorial helps students to understand the topic better and often allow the students to ask questions they are unable to ask their lecturers.

Library

Not every student enjoy using the school library but there are students who find the library as the best place to prepare for examinations.

Apart from using the library for revising their studies, the library is the best place for students who like to avoid distractions to prepare for examinations.

Study Group

This involves a group of students who are taking the same course to work together to increase and improve their learning and understanding of the course.

Study groups unlike two tutorials is more of discussion among the students, sharing ideas and what they understand about a subject.

Fire BrigadeThe Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof.Faraday Orumwense, had reportedly asked the to the school management before they can be recalled but the students refused to apologize.

Speaking to Pulse about their suspension, one of the suspended students, Ogbidi Osamudiamen, who was the Student Union President before his suspension said they rejected the management conditional offer to recall them because they were not guilty of what the management accused them of.

He said, ''The whole story is centred around what can be termed out stubbornness for not agreeing with the management on the increment in the tuition fee in the university. And the only way they thought they could punish us is to rusticate the five of us, the SUG members who are trying to defend other students.

''So they rusticated us and since they made the decision, there has been clamour that we should be reinstated, it was at this point that the management said that before they reinstate us we have to apologise and we told them that we cannot apologize, because if we apologise it means we have done something wrong and by implication it means we are guilty of whatever they accuse us of'".

Another suspended student activist, Benjamin Majekodunmi said the management was trying to push them to a dangerous corner by demanding for an apology.

''An apology is an admittance of guilt and an expression of remorse. How can we apologise for exercising our constitutional rights to peaceful protest against the management unfavourable and anti-masses policy? By demanding an apology, the management is only finding a way to punch us into a very dangerous corner''.

ALSO READ:5 things you should know about the ban on fellowship groups in UNIBEN

NANS protest against the suspension of UNIBEN five

Following the suspension of the students, there have been calls from Nigerians for the reinstatement of the five students.

The National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS) has kicked against the suspension of the five students.

The students association led by its president, Comrade Aruna Kadiri, on Wednesday protested at the University of Benin to demand the unconditional reinstatement of the five students.Security was beefed up to prevent non teaching staff from stopping the ceremony.

Mr Paul Arua, the leader of non teaching staff in UNN said since non teaching staff were on strike the matriculation should not hold.

It is the responsibility of non teaching staff to organise matriculation and since we are on strike the matriculation should not hold,  he said.

NAN gathered that the timely intervention of policemen, operatives of the Department of State Services and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps thwarted the blockade by the union members.

The Civil Defence members led by Nsukka area commander, Mr Sterve Yabanet and Nsukka Police Urban DPO, were able to prevent the protesting non teaching staff from blocking the first gate. Their effort allowed for free flow of human and vehicular traffic to the university.

In his address during the 44th matriculation, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Benjamin Ozumba, urged the newly admitted students to take their studies seriously as UNN is known for academic excellence and has zero tolerance for deviant behaviour.

The university of Nigeria Nsukka has avalanche of rules and regulations which are applied with strictness without favouring anybody.

You are advised to avoid deviant behaviour because its consequences are not palatable in UNN.

Shun cultism, indecent dressing and exam malpractice else you be expelled, he said.

Ozumba advised the new student to seek advice from their deans, HOD, academic advisers and administrative staff whenever they have any academic problem.

The university operates a course system which comprises required, ancillary ,and general studies courses. These are clearly designated in all departments.

The administration has put appropriate machinery to welcome new students and help them settle down.

The University organised orientation for you to enable you to know more about the university as well as know the do and dont,  he said .

The VC commended the new students and their parents for choosing UNN as the university to pursue their chosen courses and promised them that the university would give them the best.

By choosing UNN., you have made a wise choice. What the institution expects from you, to achieve success, is to fear God in all you do as well as hard work and discipline, he said.

About 10,000 students participated in the matriculation ceremony.On Sunday, February 11, 2018, he invited his followers to contact him privately if they were thinking of having a crisp succulent stake encounter, when they have had a taste of the animal's flesh.

Only friends who were able to reach him by 1:30 PM on the day would have had a chance of getting a feel of this following the time-bound announcement.

Pictures shows Romeo holding the hunting prizes, while he was simply just examining the cash worthy corpses of the ruminant mammals in another image.

"Sunday sales. Pre valentine auction sales... Twin mgbada for sale. Hit my inbox before 1.30pm," he writes baring our what is often on the minds of most young Nigerians - St. Valentines shopping for lovers.

ALSO READ: Scary looking bird killed in Nigerian town of Ogbomosho

The appreciation for these yearly culture is very high in these parts of West Africa, where promiscuity closely shares a boundary with romance. This is possibly why a hotel in Gombe state, Nigeria, has expressed bluntly its lack of interest when it concerns potential customers who have a knack for promiscuity.

This was easily deduced from a statement contained on a list of regulations.

A publication titled "Important Notice" explained in simple terms the conditions a customer needs to fulfill in order to earn an accommodation at the unnamed hospitality home.

An image circulating local media offered texts that drove home the concerns of the resting place.

"Fornication, Adultery and any form of sexual promiscuity are not allowed," the second instruction on a list of rules reads.He told the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday, February 12, that using the drug to enhance sexual performance could cause convulsions and depression.

Weve made a case as to why Tramadol is at the heart of Nigerias drug problem. Primarily a pain killer, it is now being abused for an euphoric high with many side effects.

Tramadol belongs to a group of analgesics called Opioid Analgesics, he said.

It has a very strong analgesic effect which is used for strong or severe pains."

But you find that because of the opioid effect- the euphoric effect- which is one of the side effects, it makes the user feel high. The pain goes away but the euphoria remains,

Opioid Abuse: The Nigerian Story

Tramadol is rarely recommended, but when it is, it is written in doses of 50 to 100 mg.

On the streets of Lagos and Kano, doses of 200mg are sold for as little as 200 naira by roadside traders, mostly young men, who pull them out of cardboard boxes held together by duct tape.

ALSO READ: Young Nigerians are now mixing methylated spirit and Coke to get high

Porous borders give access to a population that hardly talks about drug abuse outside of moral conversations. A large young contingent was dry ground for tramadol abuse to catch flames in the early 2010s. Today, it has reached epidemic proportions.

If anything will ever be done about Tramadol, getting illicit drugs must be made much harder. Its a problem across board.

Not just tramadol, everything else.

Some of the symptoms, like dry mouth, are common in most drug users. For tramadol use, Dr. Okeke advises parents to look out for prolonged sleep, hyperactivity or any irrational behaviour.

Theres an obvious culture of drugs use but it has barely become a serious conversation.

The closest we have come was on January 27, 2010.

A group of legislators in the House of Representatives, that included Hon. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar moved a motion on an urgent need to check the incessant abuse of syrup with codeine.

The motion expressed worry that many youths now consumed these syrups as sedatives, drugs and stimulants mixed with soft drinks.Lupita is known for her style and beauty looks almost as much as her acting. The actress has made waves throughout the industry with her stunning Kenyan looks and has been vocal about her journey to self-love and learning to embrace herself completely.

In this issue of Allure, Lupita and her hairstylist, Vernon Francois, explore the relationship between black women and their hair in a poignant and important piece.

Allure Magazine shared the cover on Instagram and captioned:

Presenting our March 2018 issue, The Culture of Hair, starring . In addition to talking to Nyongo about her relationship with her hair, we also gave her and hairstylist total freedom over the looks. Lupita and I wanted to show that coil-y or kinky hair has many strengths and can be worn in lots of different ways, celebrating its beauty and versatility, says Francois.

Talking about her attitude towards her hair while growing up, Lupita says:Located in Southeastern Nigeria, the Ibibio people seem to be related to the Anaang, the oron, and the Efik peoples because of the great similarities they share among themselves.

But reflecting on the tales of oral tradition, it is easy to agree with Robert McKeon statement which states that the Ibibio are probably the indigenous natives from whom most small tribes of Qua Ibom and Calabar are descended.

Although much emphasis has not been placed on this claim, it is believed that it was the early settlement of the Ibibio in the area that led to the birthing of sub-clans like Anang, Efik, and Oron.

After all, Talbot suggests that by 7000 BC permanent settlement of some of the ethnic groups in Ibibio land had already begun and notes that the Ibibio language is probably the most ancient of all the semi Bantu languages.

It is also interesting to note that the present homeland of the Ibibio people is not their original homeland. Available evidence suggests that Usak Edet (Isangele) in Cameroon is their original homeland.

Oral tradition has that when the Ibibio people left the Cameroon territory, they arrived at their present location following two major directions.

One group reached Nigeria by an overland route and settled at Ibom (Arochuku) there they erected the famous shrine now known as the Long Juju of Arochuku.

From Ibom, some of the Ibibio people spread to Abak, Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, and other areas of what is known as the mainland of Cross River State.

Other Ibibio came to the mainland by sea. These include the Uruan, Oron, Eket, and Ibeno people.

Ibibio belief system

Before the Christianization of beliefs, it is said that the traditional religion of the Ibibio people was of two dimensions.

One was centred on the pouring of libation, worship, consultation, communication and invocation of the God of Heaven (Abasi Enyong) and God of the Earth (Abasi Isong).

Traditionally, these rites were carried out by the constitutional and religious King/Head of a particular Ibibio Community who was known from the ancient times as the Obong-Ikpaisong (the word 'Obong Ikpaisong' directly interpreted means King of the Principalities of the Earth' or 'King of the Earth and the Principalities' or Traditional Ruler).

On the other hand, the second dimension of Ibibio traditional religion was centered on the worship, consultation, invocation, sacrifice, appeasement, etc. of the God of the Heaven (Abasi Enyong) and the God of the Earth (Abasi Isong) through other spiritual entities.

And similar to that of the first dimension, rites were carried out by the Priests of these spiritual entities (Ndem), which were the Temple Chief Priests of the various Ibibio Divisions.

It is, however, important to state here that a particular Ibibio Division could consist of many inter-related autonomous communities or Kingdoms.

These kingdoms are ruled by an autonomous Priest-King called Obong-Ikpaisong, which is assisted by heads of the various large families (Mbong Ekpuk) which make up the Community.

This is how the religious and political system of the Ibibio people have been structured from time immemorial.

Ibibio marriage

The Ibibio traditional marriage consists of four stages known as, NDIDIONG UFOK, NKONG UDOK /NKONG USONG, UNO MKPO and USORO NDO (TM)

NDIDIONG UFOK which literally means to know the house, is the first step in the marriage process of the Ibibios.

NKONG UDOK /NKONG USONG which means knocking on the door, is the next step in the marriage process. This is the stage where the formal declaration of intention is made.

The man visits the womans home again to officially ask for the ladys hand and collects the marriage list.

UNO MKPO literally means to to give something. This is the day the prospective groom delivers all the marriage items to the family of the proposed bride.

It is a very significant occasion among the Ibibio peoples as it marks the seriousness of the prospective groom towards his bride to be.

USORO NDO (TM) is the hallmark of the marriage. It is a ceremonious display which kicks off with a lavish display of food  Edi kang ikong, Atama, Edi tan, Ekpan nku kwo, and music.

It is said that the purpose of this is to assure the groom and his people that the wife to have impressive cooking skills and would not slack in feeding her husband.

After eating to their satisfaction, the groom and his family are ushered into the main venue where the bride who is magnificently dressed in full traditional attire, dances beautifully with maidens on her trail.

Ibibio food

The Ibibio people are known to be very rich when it comes to food. As a matter of fact, only a few ethnic groups can match up with them when it comes to indigenous meal.The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 23 local councils appeared before the State House of Assembly Committee on Appropriation to defend their areas budget for the year.

Chairman of the committee, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed, told newsmen after the budget defence that the exercise was conducted smoothly and the total estimate of N55, 991,240,959.84 has been scrutinised by the members.

I believe each and every items put in the budget is put for a purpose to serve the local government and the entire state.

NAN reports that the 23 local government Sole Administrators had earlier defended their budget before the committee, with Lere local council having the highest budget size of over N3 billion and Kudan with the lowest budget of N1.5 billion.

The ALGON Chairman, Alhaji Yahaya Sale, who spoke with journalists after defending the budget of Giwa Local Government, said it was a zero based-budget.

Sale said: we are looking at what we have presented; we have no problem because we have sat down with most members at individual local government level.

We have deliberated with them to locate gray areas and make corrections which is why the budget defence went on smoothly and all process was harmonized.You're hunted like an...animal, spat on, kicked and prodded, and even kept as pet by people who think you desire to be their best friends.

When you really think about it, it's not an enviable life.

To counteract this, animals in Nigeria appear to be staging a revolution against the status quo. They have engaged in acts that could be considered felonies, and even terrorism, if they were committed by actual human beings.

While we tend to laugh our heads off when animals make headlines for what we believe to be absurd reasons, an animal source has confirmed that it is merely the very first shots in a revolution to get animals recognition as Nigerians covered by the rights in the constitution.

Here are the few times animals have begged for our attention and got laughed off:

1. Snake steals N36 million cash from JAMB

This one is still fresh in our memories because it happened only days ago, but it is such a game-changer in the fight for animal recognition.

Whoever's heard of a snake that steals?

When a team of auditors tried to audit the accounts of the Benue State branch of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), a sales clerk, Philomina Chieshe could not account for N36 million she had made for the agency from the sale of scratch cards.

When she was probed, Chieshereportedly confessed that it was her housemaid that colluded with another JAMB staff, Joan Asen, to "spiritually" steal the money from the vault in the accounts office with the help of a snake.

She said, "It was a mystery to me too. I have been saving the money in the bank, but I found it difficult to account for it.

"So I started saving it in a vault in the office. But each time I open the vault, I will find nothing. I became worried and surprised how the millions of Naira could be disappearing from the vault.

"I began to interrogate everybody in the house and office, and no one could agree on what might have happened to the money. I continued to press until my housemaid confessed.

"She said that the money disappeared spiritually. She said that a mysterious snake sneaked into the house and swallowed the money in the vault."

While many Nigerians have reacted to the story in what is best described as complete disbelief, the animals are most probably in a jubilant mood currently for a heist well done and recognition for it.

But what could a snake need N36 million for? Does this open the floodgates for a trend of animal-related heists? What does it all mean?

Is the militant faction of the animal revolution squirrelling money away to fund a future insurgency if peace talks fail? Time will tell.

2. Rodents stage Aso Rock protests

In an unprecedented feat that will most likely never be replicated by mere humans, a group of animals, classified as rodents, staged what was not a peaceful protest inside the office of President Muhammadu Buhari and prevented him from working from there for a couple of months.

After the president took a long medical vacation in London where he spent 103 days treating an undisclosed illness, these so-called rodents exploited the chaos in government and took over the president's office to press their demands.

The rodents did such a good job that when the president returned to resume his executive duties, he was forced to use his residential office because of the damage done by the aggressors.

His spokesperson, Garba Shehu, reported, "Following the three months period of disuse, Rodents have caused a lot of damage to the furniture and the air conditioning units."

Since this is an act that could be classified as terrorism, the rodents were aggressively dealt with through cosmetic 'renovation', and the president was able to resume working from his official office after only 11 weeks in exile.

3. Hyenas and jackals stage unsuccessful coup

While President Buhari was away in London, it wasn't just rats who made a stink in his absence. According to well-placed sources in the presidency, a group of disgruntled hyenas and jackals also tried to stage a coup and take over his government.

While no one could get comments from the actual animals involved in the conspiracy, third-party reports from First Lady, Aisha Buhari and Kaduna lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani told the whole story.

While idling away on his Facebook account in June 2017, Senator Shehu posted a story about how these animals tried to take over the executive.

He wrote, "Prayer for the absent Lion King has waned; Until he's back then they will fall over each other to be on the front row of the palace temple. Now the hyenas and the jackals are scheming and talking to each other in whispers; still doubting whether the Lion King will be back or not.

"Now the Lion king is asleep and no other dare to confirm if he will wake up or not. It's the wish of the Hyenas that the Lion King never wakes or come back so that they can be kings. Its the Prayers of the weaker animals that the Lion King comes back to save the Kingdom from the Hyenas, the wolves and other predators."

In an unprompted response, the First Lady assured him that the coup has failed due to the prayer of some weaker animals who were content with the status quo where animals are treated like, well, animals.

She wrote, "God has answered the prayers of the weaker Animals, The Hyena's and the Jackals will soon be sent out of the kingdom. We strongly believe in the prayers and support of the weaker animals. Long live the weaker animals, Long live Nigeria."

Who's the Lion King? Who are the weaker animals? One wonders.

This animal conspiracy goes deeper than it might appear.

What do these animals want? Better governance? Representation in the parliament? Their own Permanent Voter's Card (PVC) to get the chance to vote like everyone else?

Whatever it is, Nigerians should put pressure on the Federal Government to sit down and dialogue with this aggrieved party.The convict, 35-year-old Haruna Yahaya, bagged the jail term on Monday, February 12, 2018, for participating in the abduction of over 200 schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno State, in 2014.

Yahaya, whose left arm and left leg are crippled, pleaded guilty to the two counts preferred against him by the Federal Government.

He, however, pleaded for mercy, saying he was forced into the terror group.

He was said to have participated in the groups attacks in Chibok, Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State and Gabsuri town in the Damboa Local Government of the state.

Delivering judgement, the presiding judge said the court was "not fooled" by Yahaya's story, adding that the convict was "using the misfortune of his handicap to draw sympathy."

The judge ruled that the sentence starts counting from Monday, February 12, even though Yahaya has been in detention since 2015.

Chibok girls kidnap

On the night of April 14-15, 2014, the sect invaded the Government Secondary School in Chibok town, Borno State, and kidnapped 276 female students of the school.

Over the next few months, 57 of the schoolgirls managed to escape.

In May 2016, one of the missing girls, Amina Ali, was also found. She claimed that the remaining girls were still in captivity, but that six had died.

ALSO READ: Boko Haram never planned Chibok schoolgirls' abduction

1n October 2016, the terrorists released 21 of the girls while 82 more of them freed in May 2017 in an exchange deal struck by the terror group and the Federal Government.

It was reported that the sect had demanded the release of some of its commanders in the government's custody.

It was alleged that huge amount of money was also received by the notorious group.

Founded by by Mohammed Yusuf in 2002 and later led by Abubakar Shekau, Boko Haram has killed tens of thousands of people in the northeast and displaced over 2.3 million from their homes.Attah told Premium Times that it is impossible for Customs officers to man all the borders in the country, and that this makes it easy for smugglers to move illegal items into the country.

He said, "You will agree with me that our borders are very porous, and because of the porosity of these borders, that is why you still see smuggled items in the country.

"There might be issues of negligence, there might not be issues of negligence but there is the issue of porosity of the borders. Some of these smugglers take advantage of the porous borders.

"I can tell you categorically that those smuggled items find their way in through unapproved routes. If you joined all the arms of Customs officers in the country, there is no way we can man all the borders, that is the fact."

Corrupt officers aiding smuggling

Attah further revealed that smugglers are sometimes successful because they collude with dirty Customs officers who turn a blind eye to their illegal operations for a price.

He said, "We are not saying all Customs officers are saints because out of every 12, there is always a Judas. That is why the management of Customs, in recent times, have dismissed those erring officers and we are still looking for those bad eggs in the service to be dismissed as well."MACBAN is the umbrella body of cattle breeders and herdsmsen in Nigeria.

According to Punch, Sanusi said this on Sunday, February 11, 2018, in Minna, during MACBANs executive council meeting .

The Emir also called on herdsmen to contact Governorsin the Northern part of Nigeria, who have signified their interest in providing land for grazing of cattle.

MACBAN commends Anambra, Enugu Governors

Meanwhile, Zonal Chairman of the National Executive Committee of (MACBAN), Alhaji Gidado Siddiki, has commended Governors Willie Obiano and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Anambra and Enugu states respectively, for handling the crises between farmers and herdsmen in their domain, properly.

Siddiki said that the Governors  have been able to effectively stem the recurring clashes between farmers and herders at a time their other peers and the Federal Government are at a loss on how to handle the clashes.

Adding that conflict between herdsmen and farmers has a long history; the solution has been to engage all stakeholders to find an amicable solution to the conflict.

Nobody can stop Fulani herdsmen from grazing openly

MACBANs North East Chairman, Alhaji Mafindi Danburam recently said that nobody has the right to stop them from grazing openly.

According to Danburam, settling in a cattle colony is not their culture.

He said Open grazing is our culture and you cannot wake up one day and stop me from practising my culture.

Cattle colony is not our culture . We have our culture and tradition and we want to maintain it.

Governor Umar Ganduje has called Fulani herdsmen to relocate to Kano state.Arise was kidnapped by unidentified gunmen on Monday, December 4, 2017.

The former Senator was abducted in the early hours of Monday on his way to Abuja.

Recounting his ordeal, he said someone was kidnapped and was still killed even after paying N25million twice, as ransom. So, how do you describe that.

Arise said this on Sunday, February 12, 2018, during a thanksgiving service at the SS Peter and Paul Catholic Pro-Cathedral Church in Oye-Ekiti.

Speaking further, he said I can assure you that its not an experience that youll want to have. Theres nothing more frightening than for you to know that you dont even know what would happen to you.

Thanking his people for their support, Arise also said between Oye and Ilupeju, they contributed N4million within 24 hours. So that is one of the things that touched me to the marrow. My friends rallied round; the people of the town are showing appreciation for having a son that believes in them.

Prayers worked, money worked and everything worked. It was only God that took control and Im grateful.

Arise for Governor

According to Today NG, Ayo Arise might contest for Governorship elections in Ekiti state.As Benue got submerged in August of 2017, most persons fled homes with only the clothes on their backs; to camps for the displaced.

On September 6, 2017, a presidential jet with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo onboard, touched down at the Makurdi airstrip, with hopes for a suffering people and victims of a most disastrous flood.

Deceiving the presidency

However, people were hired into the camps to swell the number in order to deceive the federal government delegation.

Premium Times writes that; before the VPs plane touched down, some totally full 30-seater buses conveying Makurdi residents, reportedly drove in to top up its capacity. The motive was to give the visitors the impression of a camp in crisis mode,

People from areas like Gboko road and Warata where little water entered their houses and nothing happened to them, were paid to get on about three coaster buses and come to camp, said a witness, a nonprofit volunteer in the camp who asked not to be named for fear of being victimised by the authorities. I dont know if the governor was involved or it was just his PR people alone, but it happened.

Osinbajo announced eight trucks of relief materials in the interim and promised an additional five for victims.

Diversion

Soon after the VP left Benue, relief materials meant for the displaced, began making their way out of camps It was a diversion of epic proportions.

Five vehicles including two Toyota Hilux trucks and an 18-seater bus loaded to the brim with relief materials from the store were navigating out of the camp premises. United Nations volunteer staff who tried to stop the convoy, were rough-handled by hoodlums allegedly colluding with SEMA staff.

The rest of the story reads like a sick moviedisplaced persons are handed meager rations of Indomie, they are left to starve, a journalist who reports how food supplies are being diverted from camps is arrested and cowed into silence and on and on it goes.

Inhumane

Its a chilling, gripping tale of mans inhumanity to man; if ever there was one.

While SEMA boss Boniface Ortese sternly denied that his agency was diverting food supplies from the camps, the Benue State government is yet to respond to the story.

It should.

There have been reports of NGOs and humanitarian agencies stealing from IDPs across Nigeria. This story is yet one more example. It is heart-rending that people still steal from the less privileged and the suffering in Nigeria.The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the suit which was earlier fixed for hearing was stalled on Monday following the absence of Justice Mojisola Olatoregun.

The judge was said to be attending a workshop and consequently, the case has been adjourned until Feb. 14 for hearing.

In the last two adjournments, EFCCs counsel, Mr Rotimi Oyedepo, had appeared before Justice Olatoregun, seeking to move an ex parte application for a temporary forfeiture of the said funds.

The move was, however, interrupted by Mr Ifedayo Adedipe (SAN), who challenged the courts jurisdiction to entertain the application.

He told the court that the funds on which the EFCC sought forfeiture order were already subject of a pending litigation.

Meanwhile, counsel to the EFCC (Oyedepo) had maintained that the senior advocate had no right of audience in the court since his application was ex parte (without notice to other parties).

He had argued that he wondered how the SAN got wind of the application by the anti-graft agency in the first place and urged the court to disregard his appearance.

The court upheld Oyedepos submission.

Before adjourning the case, the judge directed EFCC to file an affidavit to convince the court that there were no pending suits in relation to the same subject matter before the court.

In the said ex parte application, the EFCC listed Patience Jonathan and one Esther Oba as respondents.

Also listed as defendants are Globus Integrated Services Ltd, Finchley Top Homes Ltd, Am-Pm Global Network Ltd, Pagmat Oil And Gas Ltd and Magel Resort Ltd.Kayode, a 32-year-old engineer narrated his experience in a bus from Abuja en route Lagos state, south-west Nigeria.

But there was a problem.

We were in the bus for over four hours of the 10-12 hour journey and no one said a word to each other, he began.

As we approached Okene, Kogi state, I bought a chilled bottle of soft drink from the roadside sellers, reached for a wrap of kilishi that I bought from this market the previous day, Kayode said as his face lit up with impish glee.

At this moment, I had the attention of those on same line with me. Not happy with the mood in the bus, I gladly offered them the kilishi. It passed from one seat to the other with almost everyone partaking of the offering.

That was the beginning of an interesting journey; conversations, banters and so on. It was a whole different experience afterwards.

Travelling to Lagos tomorrow for a contract I got through a guy I met in that bus so I came to get more kilishi, Kayode revealed, as he moved closer to his favourite vendor of the product.

Such is the power of Kilishi, the norths gift to Nigeria and the world.

Prepared with mixed spices, Kilishi can be taken alone as a snack, or with a cup of ice cold soaked garri.

Origin of Kilishi

Although the origin of Kilishi remains unknown, Aminu, tells that the meat snack was a product of mans effort to preserve excess meat.

The art of kilishi making is being passed to generations in most northern families.

Aminu, 28, explains that unlike Suya and kebab, Kilishi could last for months without a change in taste.

Our forefathers started to make meat into kilishi to preserve it and also so that it wont lose its taste, he said. That was how the making of Kilishi started.

According to my grandfather, the demand for it began to increase and people started making it for sale. This trade was passed from my father to me. My brother also sells Kilishi in Maraba, Aminu announced.

He said the product is produced in commercial quantities in Kaduna, Katsina, Bauchi and Sokoto states.

How lucrative is Kilishi business?

Passed from generation to generation, the art of kilishi making is a source of income for most northern families.

Aminu and his siblings got their school fees paid from income his father made from the sale of kilishi in Zamfara state before they relocated to Abuja.

My father paid our school fees from this Kilishi business from primary to secondary and polytechnic level, seven of us.

Four of us graduated from the polytechnic while three are university graduates. We all know how to make this Kilishi because we were helping my father to sell while growing up.

Due to lack of job, I started selling Kilishi and I am making profits and taking care of my family too, he added.

Abuja, Bauchi or Sokoto kilishi?

Like the "Jollof war" between Nigerians and Ghanaians, there is also a Kilishi battle.

There have been arguments over the state which produces the best kilishi in Nigeria.

Abdullahi Isa, another Kilishi seller wades into this battle.

What makes one Kilishi better than the other is the quality and quantity of ingredients, spices and condiments used during the preparation, Isa said.

While there are few people in those states that can buy enough ingredients for the kilishi, others would manage and in the end, the meat wont come out really tasty.

But that is not the case in Abuja. Because of the people who buy Kilishi here, we make sure the ingredient is enough because if your kilishi is bad, nobody will buy it. I can say that you find better Kilishi in Abuja than other parts of the north, he declared.

For most consumers, however, these differences do not exist.

Whats most important is the product as no one really cares about the quality or quantity of ingredients used in the preparation of the beef snack.

Exporting Kilishi

Kilishi is also in high demand outside the shores of Nigeria.

Fatima Gana, a consumer tells that her parents send Kilishi to family members in the United States and England.

We love Kilishi a lot in my family, Miss Gana said. My sister who was posted to the United States of America would call home to ask that my mum should send her Kilishi from Nigeria.

We buy as much as N10,000 to N20,000 worth of Kilishi, stuff it in a box and send down to her. Shell then share with her friends and other Nigerians there. My parent does same for my aunty in England, she added.

Isa noted that with the necessary encouragement from the government, Kilishi could be an income earner for the country due to the high demand for the product.

Challenges Kilishi sellers face

Like it is with every other job, Kilishi business also has its many challenges. Top on the list is the fact that customers do not want to pay much for their products.

Aminu explained further that despite the increasing cost of meat and spices for kilishi, the customers would price the product low.

If you buy meat of N100,000, you will need at least N15,000 worth of ingredients to make really good kilishi. Our problem is that sometimes, customers will not want to pay big money for the meat; they will keep pricing it low, Aminu said.

He stated that cattle rustling and high cost of transportation also affects the business.

Nobody wants to give Fulani people land to keep their cow but they want kilishi. What they dont know is that if there is no cow, there wont be kilishi, he said.

Is Kilishi deadly?

There has however been growing concerns of the health risk associated with the consumption of Kilishi.

Medical doctors have expressed worry that high consumption of red meat (beef) may increase ones chances or risk of getting cancer.

Recently, the minister of health, Isaac Adewole said excessive beef consumption may lead to hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke and death of many Nigerians.

Adewole, while delivering a keynote address during the First Annual Black Tie Gala Event organized by the Tristate Heart Foundation (THF), to raise five million Niara in support of cardiovascular care in Nigeria, remarked that one in every five Nigerians is hypertensive and at risk of premature death.

Sadly, there is widespread low consumption of proteins, fruits and vegetables and increasing patronage of fast food outlets by the population.

There is also a large promotion of sweetened products such as carbonated drinks, pastries, candies and other refined sugars, while excessive intake of salt is promoted by food additives such as monosodium glutamate common in delicacies such as Suya, Isi-ewu, Ngwo-ngwo, among others, Adewole said.

The production of Kilishi also exposes the meat to contamination from flies and insects.

Something must kill a man, Nigerians react

For Titilope Fadare, all food has its risk factor. She advised that just like Kilishi, all foods should be taken with moderation.

Even fruits can be harmful to the body if contaminated, said Miss Fadare.

The thing is, Kilishi and other foods should be eaten with moderation because too much of everything is bad, she added.

Something must kill a man, Kayode declared. The same doctors saying the consumption of Kilishi, suya and so on is harmful will still come up tomorrow to say that Kilishi consumption will increase your lifespan.

I love eating kilishi and what the doctors say wont make me stop taking it, he added.

As you consume your beef jerky, moderation should be the watchword.

And like Kayode, that lacy stretch of kilishi could be the needed key to that contract, job or relationship.The killing was said to have occurred in Awange after Kasseyol village in Guma local government area of the state on Sunday February 11, 2018.

Guma is one of the local government areas where many people were killed on New Year's day by the herdsmen.

According to the spokesman for the NSCDC Benue command, Adakole Peter, the officials died during a gun battle with the suspected herdsmen.

Peter, who spoke to The Cable, identified the deceased officers as Adams Godwin and Abah Patrick.

"They were killed in Guma during an exchange of gunfire with herdsmen. We got some of the herdsmen too but unfortunately two of our colleagues were killed," he told online news portal on Monday, February 12.

Herdsmen attacks

On Saturday, four policemen were declared missing in the volatile state after herdsmen ambushed a police team.

Reports said two of the missing officers later returned unhurt but the corpse of one was found on Monday the other officers are still missing.

ALSO READ: Benue protests, asks Buhari to act on 50 killed by herdsmen

Since the New Year Day massacrein the state, all efforts by the Federal Government to curtail the clashes between farmers and herdsmen have been largely unsuccess.

On January 11, the Benue government held a mass burial for 71 victims of the herdsmen.

The death toll has since gone past 100.

The Nigerian army has announced a 44-day operation in Benue and six other states affected by the herdsmen violence.Turkey and the Greek Cypriot-majority republic have sparred over resources in the eastern Mediterranean, with Ankara pushing the claim of the unrecognised statelet it backs on the north of the divided island.

"We are keeping calm in order to avoid any crisis and taking all diplomatic steps necessary so that finally the Republic of Cyprus' sovereign rights can be respected,"President Nicos Anastasiades told reporters Sunday.

"We are handling the situation by trying to avoid anything that could worsen the situation without ignoring the fact that Turkey's actions are in breach of international law," he added.

However, Turkey's foreign ministry lashed out at Cyprus over the "unilateral hydrocarbon-related activities" by the European Union's most easterly member.

"It does so in disregard of the inalienable rights on natural resources of the Turkish Cypriot people, who are the co-owners of the Island," a statement said.

"This unconstructive Greek Cypriot attitude also constitutes a major obstacle to the settlement of the Cyprus issue."

The island has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third in response to a coup sponsored by the military junta then ruling Greece.

Cyprus announced on Thursday that exploratory drilling by Italy's ENI and France's Total had found extensive gas reserves elsewhere off the island in a major breakthrough in its hunt for resources.

Cyprus has signed deals with a range of firms for exploratory drilling, with US giant ExxonMobil also planning two drills in the second half of 2018.

The dispute over resources in the Mediterranean is another complicating factor in efforts to reunify the island after negotiations on the 44-year feud collapsed in acrimony last year."I suggested they study my proposal and I am waiting for their reply," Luaybi said.

BP is the biggest foreign player in Iraq's oil sector, running the Rumaila field in the south of the country which produces 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) -- almost a third of Iraq's output.

In 2014, the oil ministry and BP signed a consultancy deal under which the energy titan would study reserves in the Baba Gurgur and Havana fields and ways of developing them.

But Baghdad lost the Kirkuk fields to Kurdish forces that year during a sweeping offensive by the Islamic State group, and the deal was never implemented.

"Because of IS, it was frozen," Luaybi said.

But he said Iraq had signed a new memorandum with BP in January after the federal government seized back control of the area following a September Kurdish independence referendum bitterly opposed by Baghdad.

Baba Gurgur, discovered in 1927, is Iraq's oldest oilfield.

Central government forces recaptured it from the Kurds in October along with the fields of Havana, Bai Hassan, Jambu and Khabbaz.

The five fields have a total output of around 470,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) but production and export have been slow as the main pipeline linking Kirkuk to the Ceyhan oil terminal in Turkey was damaged and needs repairs.

Luaybi said a new 350-kilometre (220-mile) oil pipeline able to pump over one million bpd from the Kirkuk fields to Turkey may be completed within as little as a year.

In the meantime, Iraq will export up to 60,000 bpd by road to refineries around Iran's Kermanshah, where oil firms face major challenges transferring oil from wells in southern Iran, he said.

"We will supply those refineries and (receive) the equivalent quantities in our southern port" of Basra, he said.

Talks with the Kurds

Luaybi also said talks were underway with the Kurdish authorities with a view to pumping Kirkuk oil via a pipeline through the autonomous Kurdish region.

"We hope to succeed. We have reached a sort of understanding so far," he said.

A sixth oilfield, Khurmala, remains under Kurdish control, but Luaybi insisted it belongs to Iraq's state-owned North Oil Company.

"Khurmala belongs to NOC and was discovered more than 30 years ago," he said. "We started developing it in 1995. NOC and the oil ministry have finished drilling 36 wells there."

Luaybi said the Iraqi oil ministry had launched a $37 million programme in 2004 to develop Khurmala.

The ministry of resources in the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq seized Khurmala in 2008-2009, Luaybi said.

"But it's a field that belongs to the oil ministry of the federal government," Luaybi said.

Iraq is the second largest producer in the OPEC cartel after Saudi Arabia.

It reported its oil exports at 109.6 million barrels in December last year, the same month that the government announced victory over IS.The prosecution's charge sheet, presented in late January, paints a picture of a lonely illegal alien working odd construction jobs who drank alcohol and took drugs, and who acted alone.

On the afternoon of Friday, April 7, Akilov stole a beer delivery truck and barrelled down a bustling pedestrian shopping street, swerving wildly to hit as many people as possible before smashing into the facade of a department store. He killed five and injured 10.

"I was walking down the street ... and you don't expect something like that to happen... All of a sudden, this truck ran me over," Irina Zamanova, a 38-year-old Ukrainian woman who lost her lower right leg in the attack, told AFP.

She said it was important for her to attend the trial and testify even though it would be "trying" to relive the events of that day.

Akilov, born in 1978, was arrested in a Stockholm suburb hours after his attack thanks to public transport video surveillance footage, and confessed.

He faces charges of "terrorism and attempted terrorism". The trial is scheduled to last through May, with a verdict due in June.

According to the charge sheet, Akilov wanted to "instigate fear among the public" and "force Sweden's government and parliament to end Sweden's participation in military training of the global coalition against IS in Iraq".

The trial opens seven months ahead of Sweden's legislative elections, where security is shaping up to be one of the main campaign themes.

"Swedes need to feel safe," said Toivo Sjoren, head of the Kantar Sifo polling institute.

Premeditated or desperate act ?

The trial is expected to focus on Akilov's intentions: Was it premeditated? Was there a religious motive? Or was it the act of a desperate man?

Akilov is scheduled to address the court as of February 20.

He arrived in Sweden in 2014, at the start of the big migration wave to Europe. His application for Swedish residency was rejected in 2016, after which he went underground.

Akilov's wife and four children had stayed behind in Uzbekistan.

Prosecutors believe he acted alone, but the investigation has revealed he chatted with unidentified contacts on social media about his plans as far back as January 2017.

According to the prosecution, Akilov also searched the internet for information on jihadist groups, swearing allegiance to IS, possible targets, and how to build a bomb.

Uzbek police claim he tried to enter Syria from Turkey to join IS in 2015, but there is no proof of that.

Uzbek authorities also claim they shared intelligence with Sweden about Akilov prior to the attack, but Swedish terrorism expert Magnus Ranstorp rejects that notion.

"I don't believe that," he said, noting it is "an authoritarian government... It's very easy for them to play politics in saying that they give that information" to the Swedes.

Wave of truck attacks

Sweden, a normally tranquil country of 10 million which took in 300,000 asylum seekers in 2014-2016, was stunned by the attack.

Swedish intelligence agency Sapo had long warned against the possibility of a truck attack, but no one really believed it would ever happen.

The Scandinavian country has experienced only one other terror attack in modern times. In December 2010, a man blew himself up in a suicide attack in central Stockholm that lightly injured two passersby.

Sweden's threat assessment level has been at three, or "elevated", on a five-point scale since October 2010 with the exception of a few months in 2015-2016.

Some 300 people have left Sweden to join jihadist groups in Syria and Iraq since 2012, according to Sapo. Around 140 have returned to Sweden and 50 or so have been killed.

Europe has seen a wave of truck attacks in recent years.

The deadliest was in Nice, on July 14, 2016, when a truck rammed crowds leaving a fireworks display for France's national holiday, killing 86 people.Former MP Sezai Temelli, 54, was voted by party delegates to replace Demirtas while Pervin Buldan, 50, was elected co-chair as well.

Buldan, a serving MP and deputy parliament speaker, replaces Serpil Kemalbay, who herself took over from another incarcerated former leader, Figen Yuksekdag.

The party says it always has a woman and man in leadership positions in the interests of equality.

There was heavy security at the congress in Ankara where the venue was filled with several thousand HDP supporters waving the party's symbol of a tree.

The new leaders take over a party isolated in parliament where many of its beliefs will likely clash with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The HDP has regularly accused the president of "authoritarianism", many of its MPs and members have been detained, and it opposes Turkey's current offensive against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) militia in northern Syria.

Ankara views the YPG as a "terrorist" offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has fought the Turkish state for decades.

"The solution is not with war but with peace, not with dying or with killing, it is with living and to keep (others) alive," Buldan told supporters.

'Peaceful opposition'

The new co-chairs will attempt to lead the party to a fresh start ahead of general and presidential elections in November 2019.

On Thursday, MEPs in the European parliament called on Ankara to scrap emergency powers brought in after the failed July 2016 coup, which they said were being used to stifle "legitimate and peaceful opposition" and a free press.

Since the attempted putsch, more than 140,000 people have been suspended or sacked over alleged links to coup-plotters.

Demirtas, dubbed by some the "Kurdish Obama" after the ex-US president, came to prominence after leading the HDP into parliament for the first time in June 2015.

Analysts say his success was because he appealed to voters outside the Kurdish minority including non-Kurdish leftists and liberals.

Huseyin Gungor, a HDP supporter, said "the party would never forget Yuksekdag or Demirtas".

But he told AFP: "We are behind Temelli and Buldan."

Demirtas and Yuksekdag were among a dozen HDP MPs detained in November 2016 as part of a crackdown that followed the attempted coup. Nine HDP lawmakers remain in jail.

Yuksekdag was stripped of her lawmaker status in February 2017 and stepped down as co-leader in May last year.

Demirtas, 44, faces multiple legal cases including accusations he has links to the PKK, which is also blacklisted as a terror group by Ankara's Western allies.

'Terror propaganda'

The government accuses the HDP of being a political extension of the PKK, but the party denies any direct links to the group and calls for a political solution to the conflict raging in Turkey's southeast.

At the congress, images shown on a large screen of the PKK jailed leader Abdullah Ocalan.

Since entering parliament under Demirtas's leadership, the HDP has come under heavy pressure with seven of its lawmakers losing their MP status. The party had 59 MPs in late 2015.

The party says some 3,300 HDP members have been arrested since the collapse of a two-year ceasefire between the Turkish state and the PKK in July 2015.

In a letter read out during the congress, Demirtas said "if (their) response to resistance is to arrest us, they can build a thousand more prisons, they will not find the space to fill us all".

Since Turkey's offensive in Syria began in January, there have been more arrests. The HDP says 368 of its members had been detained over their opposition to the fighting."If they do not hand over all the information that they have from their investigation... then I cannot work with them any more as an aid delivery partner -- and any other organisation in those circumstances," she told the BBC.

In a sign of widening fallout from the scandal, the Sunday Times reported more than 120 workers for Britain's leading charities were accused of sexual abuse in the past year, "fuelling fears paedophiles are targeting overseas aid organisations".

Mordaunt said she was writing to all charities that receive state aid demanding they step up efforts to tackle sexual misconduct among staff or face funding cut-offs.

She will also seek to confirm they have referred all concerns about specific cases and individuals to the relevant authorities.

"I think this is an emerging picture, there are more allegations coming out about Oxfam and other organisations... and all of them will be followed up," Mordaunt vowed.

'No cover-up'

The government's hardening stance follows reports in The Times newspaper that young sex workers were hired by Oxfam's senior staff in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake which devastated the island and left up to 300,000 people dead.

The charity -- which employs around 5,000 staff and has 23,000 more volunteers -- recorded 87 incidents last year, referring 53 to the police or authorities and dismissing 20 staff or volunteers, according to the Sunday Times.

Oxfam Chief Executive Mark Goldring admitted Saturday that it had failed to detail fully the nature of the 2011 scandal but insisted it "did anything but cover it up".

"With hindsight, I would much prefer that we had talked about (the) sexual misconduct," Goldring told BBC radio.

"But I don't think it was in anyone's best interest to be describing the details of the behaviour in a way that was actually going to draw extreme attention to it."

However, Mordaunt said not disclosing the full picture was "a scandal" and Monday's meeting was a chance "to see if they are displaying the moral leadership that I think they need to now".

She added: "what is so disturbing about Oxfam is that when this was reported to them, they completely failed to do the right thing."

The minister noted offenses committed by British citizens anywhere in the world could still be prosecuted in Britain.

"We're talking about a historic case, but it is in some respects still live.The envoy was set to talk with Sisi in the early afternoon, after seeing staff of the US embassy in Cairo and a second meeting with Shoukry.

A US State Department official said Tillerson's talks in Egypt would focus on "regional issues of mutual concern such as Libya and Syria, our shared commitment to fighting terrorism", and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

"Concerns about human rights and civil society are a topic of continuing conversation with the Egyptians," the official added, expecting the topic to be addressed during talks.

Tillerson's visit comes as Sisi, who has been president since 2014, looks set to be re-elected next month in polls in which he will face a single opponent.

"On the elections, we support a genuine and a credible electoral process, and we believe should guarantee the right for all citizens to participate freely and fairly," the US State Department official said.

"We have noted our concerns about the reports that Egypt's prosecutor general has launched an investigation into opposition figures ahead of the" March 26 elections, he added.

Tillerson's trip to Cairo comes after Vice President Mike Pence visited last month to discuss security in the region and the future of US aid to Egypt.

After Cairo, Tillerson is to head to Kuwait to take part in a ministerial meeting of the US-led military coalition that has been battling the Islamic State jihadist group in Iraq and neighbouring Syria.

He is also set to visit Jordan to meet King Abdullah II and Lebanon to meet President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Saad Hariri.He showed off a special ledger labeled cash. And he described an under-the-table deal he had going with a New York fish buyer, saying at one point, Youll never find a better laundromat.

But Rafaels visitors turned out to be Internal Revenue Service agents, and the conversations, caught on tape and described in court documents, began the unraveling of Rafael, whose reign over a segment of this regions fishing industry gave him his larger-than-life nickname, the Codfather.

As Rafael sits in prison, having pleaded guilty to lying about his catches and smuggling cash out of the country, nearly two dozen of his boats have been barred from fishing for species like cod and haddock, grinding part of the centuries-old maritime economy in the nations most lucrative fishing port to a halt.

Fishermen, ice houses and shoreside suppliers who once did business with Rafael are anxious, as their own businesses have slowed or stopped. Regulators, who oversee a federal system aimed at limiting what the industry fishes for, want more penalties, raising doubts about the future of the port when it comes to groundfish, the bottom-dwelling species like cod that were once the backbone of the fishing industry in New England.

There are a lot of people on this waterfront, very hardworking people, whose livelihood depends on Carlos landings, said Jon Mitchell, the mayor of New Bedford. They dont deserve to suffer along with him.

Tony Fernandes, a captain on one of Rafaels boats, said he is now collecting unemployment benefits and waiting to learn when he may be able to fish again. Hes putting in his time and he paid his fine, he said of Rafael. We are in limbo.

For decades, Rafael, 65, was a blustery, polarizing figure along these piers. He called himself a pirate, and mocked smaller competitors as maggots or mosquitoes. When he wasnt yelling into his phone in Portuguese, he held court around town, talking politics and fish.

Authorities said he owned one of the countrys largest commercial fishing enterprises, and analysts estimate he controlled about one-quarter of New Englands landings of groundfish.

Rafael also had boats to harvest scallops, which now make up a much greater share of New Bedfords total landings than groundfish do.

But Rafael also served as a dealer for the seafood that came off his boats, which prosecutors say made it easier for him to lie about what he was catching and how much he was getting for it.

Carlos Rafael has been well known in the commercial fishing industry for 30 years, said Andrew Lelling, the U.S. attorney for Massachusetts, who prosecuted the case. And, for almost as long, federal law enforcement has heard rumors and concerns about Rafael acting illegally.

Some people in New Bedford saw Rafael far differently  as a Robin Hood of sorts, with a pack of cigarettes and a dinged-up Silverado.

He was a Portuguese immigrant who had started out cutting fish and eventually provided jobs for many people along a waterfront that has been bustling since Herman Melville immortalized its cobblestone streets and whaling ships in Moby Dick.

He saw an opportunity eight years ago when the government moved forward with a new regulatory system in New England, after Congress mandated that science-based limits be used to prevent overfishing. The cod catch, long a staple of New Englands economy, had fallen over the years.

Instead of the former approach of limiting how many days boats could spend at sea, the new regulations by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration set specific ceilings on how many fish could be caught.

The rules instantly were contentious, especially when regulators set low limits for dwindling species like cod to help them rebound.

Fishing allocations were divided among 19 regional sectors of fishing boats in the Northeast, and boat owners were granted permits based on their fishing history  so those with the most boats seemed primed to win out.

We were saying, catch shares are going to lead to consolidation, catch shares are going to lead to integration, catch shares are going to lead to corruption, said Scott Lang, a former mayor of New Bedford.

Rafael came to control most of the permits for groundfish in his sector, but by 2015, he was pondering selling his business. His asking price: $175 million.

So when the IRS agents  who posed as Russian mobsters interested in buying Rafaels business  came along, Rafael was quick to talk to them.

Explaining why his business was worth even more than it might appear to on paper, Rafael laid out all that he had done to misreport what fish he was catching.

At points, he seemed to worry that he might be getting set up. (You could be the IRS in here, said Rafael in one recorded conversation, though he swiftly dismissed the idea, noting that he didnt think the IRS employed Russians. That would be some bad luck!)

Last year, in a case that married international financial crime with flaky fish fillets, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy, tax evasion, bulk cash smuggling, false labeling and falsifying records. In September, he was sentenced to about four years in prison as he stood before a courtroom packed with fishermen who had worked for him.

I did it because I wanted to make sure my people kept getting a paycheck, Rafael wrote in a statement read by his lawyer. The waterfront is a hard world we work in.

The judge, William Young, of U.S. District Court, seemed unmoved. This was not stupid, the judge said, This was corrupt.

Rafaels lawyer, William Kettlewell, did not respond to messages seeking comment.

Rafaels punishment was cheered by environmentalists, regulators, and fishermen up and down the coast who saw him as having muscled out smaller boats and having marred the whole region. The case also raised questions about the effectiveness of a regulatory system that allowed one man to become so dominant and to skirt the rules for so long.

Hes the biggest player in the most high profile fishery in New England, said Peter Baker, with the Pew Charitable Trusts ocean conservation effort. They should have been able to detect what he was doing long before they did.

John Bullard, who was NOAAs northeast regional administrator until the end of January, said the regulatory system had worked well elsewhere.

He said he had banned ground fishing in Rafaels sector through at least the beginning of the next fishing season in May because the industry there had failed to accurately report its catches and stay within fishing limits.

They have a very basic job to do, to count fish, and they didnt do it, said Bullard, who is also a former mayor of New Bedford.

The future of Rafaels empire is a matter of intense debate. Federal authorities have seized some of his boats and fishing permits, and they are seeking to revoke more permits in a civil action that also asserts misreporting in Rafaels scallop fleet.

Fishermen in other ports hope Rafaels permits will be transferred to their areas, while fishermen in New Bedford are fighting to keep them local. Some boat captains worry that they may face scrutiny, even though they say they had no part in Rafaels crimes. (Rafael told the undercover agents that the captains knew of his schemes; Lelling, the prosecutor, said a decision was made to go after Rafael, and not the fishermen working for him.)

Some of the piers in New Bedford have settled into an icy unease as the industry sputters forward without Rafael.

As fog shrouded the port and a single seal bobbed in the harbor on a recent morning, Ian Saunders unloaded redfish from one of the few boats active at this hour. This is my first boat this week, Saunders said.

The owners of shoreside businesses spoke of heavy losses.

I go home, I cant sleep, said Anne Jardin-Maynard, the owner of a settlement house, which handles payroll and accounting for fishing boats, including Rafaels. Its the ice plants, the fuel companies, the gear places  everybodys affected by this.

Porfirio Caneira, 60, the first mate on the Green Acres, one of Rafaels idled, tied-up vessels, looked out at the pier and recalled the scene from an earlier time: welders, painters, workers, all scurrying around on these boats.

Now, he said, you dont see anybody.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.UK: The Rail Safety & Standards Board is working with Alstom with the aim of piloting a hydrogen powered train in late 2019 or early 2020, RSSB Chief Executive Mark Phillips said on February 12.Seizure of foreign bank assets owned by ex-Vneshprombank head, her brother upheld

 RIA Novosti, Kirill Kallinikov

15:59 12/02/2018

MOSCOW, February 12 (RAPSI)  The Moscow City Court has upheld a lower courts ruling to seize assets in a Liechtenstein bank belonging to ex-Vneshprombank president Larisa Markus sentenced to 8.5 years in prison for embezzling 113.5 billion rubles (about $2 billion), and her brother Georgy Bedzhamov charged with large-scale fraud, a court source has told RAPSI.

Earlier, Moscows Tverskoy District Court seized 8 bank accounts of Bedzhamov and one account of Markus. The ruling therefore took effect.

In May 2017, Markus was sentenced to 9 years in prison for embezzling 113.5 billion rubles and later was declared bankrupt on the request of VTB24 bank. In August, her sentence was reduced by 6 months.

Investigators believe that Markus along with her brother Georgy Bedzhamov, who once co-owned Vneshprombank, created an organized crime group to siphon money from the bank. The group including former vice-president of the bank Yekaterina Glushakova allegedly granted loans to sub-companies and did not refund money to Vneshprombank. Allegedly, from May 2009 to December 2015, conspirators managed to embezzle about 114 billion rubles.

Glushakova has been sentenced to 4 years in prison. Bedzhamov has been put on the international wanted list. An arrest warrant has been issued for him in absentia.Moscow court detains Ukrainian national suspected of espionage against Russia

 RIA Novosti, Igor Zarembo

16:49 12/02/2018

MOSCOW, February 12 (RAPSI)  Moscows Lefortovsky District Court on Monday ordered detention of the Ukrainian citizen Konstantin Davydenko suspected of espionage directed against Russia, the courts spokesperson Yekaterina Krasnova told RAPSI.

The suspect was detained until April 11, the courts representative said.

According to Russias Federal Security Service, Davydenko collected and transferred information on the work of the Federal National Guard Service, information classified as state secret, and information about security officers, to Ukraines intelligence services. Leakage of this information could cause damage to the national security, FSB stated.

The alleged spy has been arrested in Crimea.,



We're sorry, this article is not currently availableBetween 2007-08 and 2017-18, the number of countries they imported steam coal from has increased from six to 12.

Indian firms over the past 10 years have made trips to Italy, Bhutan, and Macau among more than 24 destinations.

These werent pleasure trips but business travels aimed at finding cheaper and suitable grades of coal.

Between 2007-08 and 2017-18, the number of countries they imported steam coal from has increased from six to 12.

In 2015-16, the number went up to 24.

Coal is one the largest contributors to the cost of generating thermal power.

It is because of this and inefficiencies in domestic coal production that Indian power companies are sourcing coal from other countries.

However, with the Indian government imposing higher taxes on coal imports and a Supreme Court judgment not allowing revising tariffs even if prices of imported coal go up, power companies may look at domestic options.

We took the lead to import coal from Colombia, and found coal was sold based on a lower index.

"And also the freight was lower. However, as soon as they realised this, they changed the policy, said an executive of a thermal power producer heavily dependent on imported coal.

Sharad Mahendra, executive vice-president, energy business, JSW Energy, said: We are not looking at newer geographies but well-established geographies like South Africa, Mozambique, and Indonesia.

"We keep looking at various mines to source coal based on quality and other parameters like gross calorific value (GCV), moisture content, and ash content.

"If GCV is lost during transportation, it could wipe out the price advantage. Colombia is not an isolated example.

Power companies such as Tata Power have invested in coal mines in Indonesia while Adani Power has made tariff bids on the presumption that imports from Indonesia will be less expensive.

However, both power companies were in for disappointment because Indonesia changed its export policy later, making purchases costlier.

Power companies look at other countries from time to time. For example, in sourcing coal from Colombia, they have to contend with heavy seasonal rain and infrastructure costs.

"Similarly, sourcing from Russia involves harsh weather. It is harder to mine there and ports are closed for several months, said Kameswara Rao, partner, PwC India.

The commerce ministry data says between 2014 and 2017 India imported steam coal from lesser-known countries like Andorra, Chad, Panama, and Moldova.

As the global landscape changes and with policy changes in the country, new trends are emerging.

The market is split into two categories. Power companies that have regulated PPAs (power-purchasing agreements) are adapting to the governments push to discourage imports through improved local availability and regulatory limits on the pass-through of global price variations.

"The smaller category of merchant producers, including captives, continues to evaluate options on coal sourcing, whether for acquisition or short-term contracts, Rao added.

JSW Energy, for instance, is reversing its strategy though so far it has relied on imported coal.

The company has approvals to blend domestic and imported coal for 50 per cent of its coal requirements and looks to participate in coal linkage auctions.

Photograph: Reuters'Those who have followed politics even when there was no Twitter know what the word 'jumlebaaz' means,' says Utkarsh Mishra.



IMAGE: Mahatma Gandhi flanked by his closest disciples, Jawaharlal Nehru and Vallabhbhai Patel.

I never knew our prime minister gets so angry when he is restrained from doing what he knows, and does, the best -- giving bhashan.

A little of the usual pandemonium by the Opposition in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, February 7, that disrupted his speech on the motion of thanks to the President's address led to the PM, in apparent disgust, forget that he was speaking on the floor of the august House and not addressing an election rally.

Whatever he studied about Indian politics and history while pursuing a course in 'Entire Political Science' (that's the name of the subject his degree bears), the pracharak in him seems to have got the better of him, in rage.

And, he started passing off WhatsApp forwards as facts.

Beginning with 'If Sardar Patel were the first PM, all of Kashmir would have been ours' to '12 of 15 Congress committees chose Patel for PM, but Nehru got the leadership'.

He even told the Opposition that 'it only has the right to protest and not to disrupt'. (So during the UPA days, the BJP's protests in the House were all Arun Jaitley's fault. Narendra D Modi never wanted Parliament to be disrupted.)

Thankfully he stopped at that and didn't go as far as members of his party's IT cell go.

But unlike at election rallies -- where one can get away after accusing a former PM and a former army chief of hatching a conspiracy against the party in power -- making statements based on wrongly interpreted historical information and hearsay in Parliament legitimises them to a great extent.

And the PM did just this last Wednesday.

In a pursuit to set the tone and tenor of his campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabha election, the PM ended up giving legitimacy to something which cannot be sufficiently backed by facts and evidence.

That mysterious tale of the Congress' 1946 internal elections

It seems that every other Nehru-hater I meet has been told this story differently, and no one seems to know what really happened and why.

This is what the PM told Lok Sabha last Wednesday:

'When Congress held elections (internal elections before Independence) for leadership in the country, 12 out of 15 Congress committees chose Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, 3 chose NOTA. Yet the leadership wasn't given to him (Patel), and Nehru was given the post.'

'If Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel would have been the first prime minister of the country, all of Kashmir would have been ours.'

Clearly, the PM didn't complete the story.

He didn't ask, 'Why was Nehru given the leadership and who gave it to him?' Because he was narrating it in a bid to sully Nehru and 'expose the injustice meted out' to Sardar Patel, he steered clear of mentioning Mahatma Gandhi's decisive role in selecting Nehru.

If he had done so, he would have been the first PM to accuse the Father of the Nation of ulterior motives in India's Parliament. (But doesn't he love the phrase 'the first PM in history to...'? :)))

However, he already has become the first PM to demolish Nehru in the House, going to the extent to say that 'he didn't give us democracy, it was always in our culture'.

How can someone, who claims to take pride in India's rich history and ancient culture, say that a land of hundreds of kingdoms, ruled by kings and queens and emperors, managed by feudal lords, who changed policies on whims and fancies, was always democratic!

Anyway, returning to the Nehru-Patel debate, one does find references in several books that while provincial Congress committees wanted Patel to take over as Congress president in 1946, succeeding Maulana Azad, Gandhi wanted Nehru back in the role.

Durga Das writes in his memoir that Gandhi preferred Nehru over Patel to succeed Azad because he thought Nehru would be 'a better instrument to deal with the Englishmen' at that crucial time.

When Das asked Acharya J B Kriplani about the episode later, the latter replied, 'I knew Gandhiji wanted Jawaharlal to be the president for a year, and I made a proposal myself saying "some Delhi fellows want Jawaharlal's name". I circulated it to the members of the working committee to get their endorsement. I played that mischief. I am to blame. Patel never forgave me for that.'

Though it was an election for Congress president, it was clear that whoever got the post would also head the interim government, as the then Viceroy Lord Wavell had made it clear that he would call the Congress president to form the government after the acceptance of the Cabinet Mission Plan.

When Das asked Gandhiji about it, he agreed that 'though Sardar would have been a better negotiator and organiser as Congress president, Jawahar should head the government'.

When asked why, he said, '(Jawahar) is better known abroad than Sardar and will make India play a role in international affairs. Sardar will look after the country's affairs'.

Maulana Azad, however, had a different story to tell. In India Wins Freedom he writes, that Gandhi wanted Patel to be the next president, and it was Azad, as the outgoing party president, who recommended Nehru's name.

'Some people did propose the names of Sardar Patel and Acharya Kriplani, but in the end Jawaharlal was accepted unanimously,' Azad writes.

So even those who participated in the events do not seem to agree on what actually happened.

And it would not be proper to paint a unilateral picture of the event showing one camp as the culprit and other as a victim.

And even if Patel had really been our first PM, what was there for the Hindu nationalists to cheer?

Patel was also a Congress stalwart. Those who are made to believe that he had a 'soft corner' towards the Hindu Right should read his letters.

They are existing proof that he despised Hindu nationalists and would have liked to deal with them with an iron fist, like he did while banning the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh more than a couple of times.

When it comes to Partition, one finds Nehru and Patel on the same page, on reading their correspondence from those years.

Both opposed it till they could, but after a point, they were not ready to bear with the Muslim League in a way Gandhi or Azad were.

They both told the All India Congress Committee on June 16, 1947 that the only alternative to Partition was a total breakdown of system and anarchy.

Speaking at the Ramlila Maidan on August 11, 1947, Patel called Partition a baleful necessity.

'People say the Congress divided India. It is true that we accepted it only after due deliberation and not in fear of haste,' the Sardar said.

'I was opposed to Partition. But when I joined the central government I saw communal hatred everywhere, from officers down to peons. It is better to accept Partition than to tolerate this (hatred) or a third-party intervention.' (Quoted from the Hindi version of the speech in the Collected Works of Sardar Patel.)

Lastly, if our PM can justify all his policies -- from a 'despotic' (in the words of Dr Amartya Sen) note ban to an ill-executed GST -- by pointing at electoral victories, why couldn't Nehru do the same? How did he go on winning election after election if he was imposed against the popular will?

'Entire Kashmir would have been ours'

Only those who don't know the genesis of Kashmir issue can pass such statements.

So a brief recap should not be out of place, especially for students of WhatsApp University.

While leaving India, the British had allowed the demand of 'Lapse of Paramountcy' of the Chamber of Princes, and the princely states were free to choose which of the two dominions -- India or Pakistan -- they wanted to go.

The situation of some of them was more critical than the others. In Kashmir's case it was worse.

The state was geographically proximate to both countries. It was a Muslim majority state with a Hindu ruler -- Maharaja Hari Singh -- who only appointed Hindus to high office.

A revolt led by Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah -- when he was still friends with the Congress -- threatened Hari Singh's rule. And therefore he got Abdullah arrested.

The maharaja did not want to join either India or Pakistan and wanted to remain independent.

Sheikh Abdullah led a campaign for Kashmir to join the Union of India.

I am sure one doesn't need a degree in 'Entire History' to read letters Sardar Patel wrote on this issue.

The Congress was of the view that like all other rulers, Hari Singh should abdicate and allow a people's government in the state. And he should sign the 'Instrument of Accession' with India.

Not only Nehru, but Patel too wanted Sheikh Abdullah out of jail.

In a letter to Lord Wavell on July 8, 1946, Patel wrote, 'It seems to me that if Sheikh Abdullah's trial is postponed sine die and he is released on his own recognisance, the whole trouble is likely to be over.'

In another letter to the prime minister of Jammu and Kashmir, R C Kak, Patel wrote, 'You are aware that on 15 August, India, though divided, will be completely free, and you also know that by this time a vast majority of states have joined the Constituent Assembly of India. I realise the peculiar difficulties of Kashmir, but looking to its history and its traditions, it has, in my opinion, no other choice.'

'Do you still think that Sheikh Abdullah should continue to remain in jail? I am asking this question purely in the interest of Kashmir state.'

That Kashmir failed to join India before August 15, 1947 left its borders vulnerable to a Pakistani raid and India could not have sent its forces to protect the state until it acceded to the Union, which Maharaja Hari Singh finally did when tribesmen from across the border, aided by the Pakistan army, were knocking on the doors of Srinagar.

The fate of Kashmir was in the hands of its ruler, and only he could have made a difference, not the person holding the office of India's prime minister.

There were and could be two views on the internationalisation of the issue, but even that is rendered immaterial after the Simla Accord of 1972 where India and Pakistan agreed not to involve a third party in the matter.

But in 1947, there were strong reasons in favour of a plebiscite.

For if there was a conflict between the wishes of the people and the ruler of a state regarding which dominion to join, India always maintained that the wishes of the people must prevail.

That is how India got Junagadh despite its ruler formally acceding to Pakistan.

Moreover, a plebiscite while Sheikh Abdullah exercised a formidable influence on the people of the Kashmir valley would most certainly have gone in India's favour. Maybe that is why Pakistan's then prime minister Liaquat Ali Khan wanted Abdullah's 'pro-India' government dismissed before holding a plebiscite.

As V P Menon, Sardar Patel's secretary, wrote in his classic Integration of Indian States, 'India's stand on Kashmir will not be understood by those who are determined not to understand it.'

So it is neither the post-Independence Congress leadership, nor the history -- or 'entire history' -- of the Kashmir issue with which PM Modi was concerned.

He was more concerned with attacking the current leadership of the Congress and setting the agenda for the 2019 general election by not giving them a chance to corner him on issues like the Rafale deal.

Nehru's great grandson leads the Congress today, so India's first prime minister was bad. If Patel's descendants led the Congress today, the WhatsApp forwards by the BJP's IT Cell would have been the other way round.

It could not have been any other way. The BJP needs a Congressman to attack a Congressman because their ideological ilk has no leader who can claim to have contributed decisively to the freedom movement or the subsequent nation-building.

Moreover, the Nehru family is the only link between that Congress and this Congress, otherwise even the scholars of 'entire history' would know that how many times the party suffered a division after Independence.

To those who woke up to 'entire Indian politics' after September 2013 (when Modi was made the Bharatiya Janata Party's PM candidate on, incidentally, a Friday the 13th) the PM could be a guardian angel who single-handedly takes on a 'corrupt' Opposition.

But those who have followed politics even when there was no Twitter know what the word 'jumlebaaz' means.'It is strange that a country like India, which had gone through crisis after crisis resulting from militancy, insurgency and terrorist attacks, should still be practising ad hocism in managing its security imperatives,' says B S Raghavan, former member of the Joint Intelligence Council.



IMAGE: Six soldiers were killed in the terror attack on the the Sunjuwan military base in Jammu, February 10-11. Photograph: PTI Photo

It was not until 1998, a full 50 years after Independence, that the government set up the country's first National Security Council.

When, around that time, K C Pant was assigned by Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government the task of preparing a blueprint for the council setting out its functions and the composition, he found handy my two-part article in The Hindu, published on August 11-12, 1989, in which I had drawn attention to the glaring gaps in India's security policy planning and suggested the format of a charter for the Council to suit Indian conditions.

An exchange of letters and a discussion between us followed, which led to the incorporation of the salient ideas I had been advocating. It is quite another matter that the NSC has not lived up to the expectations raised and has been in a moribund condition.

One of the very first projects undertaken by the NSC ought to have been the drawing up of a cogent and comprehensive national security doctrine for the country, taking into account not only the internal and external security environment and their inter-linkages and implications, but also the Constitutional, political, social, economic, financial, scientific, technological and business and commercial dimensions of national security.

The next anyone heard about any exercise relating to security was the unveiling of India's nuclear doctrine on August 17, 1999, by then national security advisor Brajesh Mishra.

It laid down the 'fundamental purpose' of Indian nuclear weapons to be to deter the use and threat of use of nuclear weapons by any State or entity against India and its forces.

It also declared that India would not be the first to initiate a nuclear strike but will respond with punitive retaliation should deterrence fail.

It was good as far as it went, but it was confined to only the nuclear aspect of India's overall security framework.

There was a sudden media flutter in March 2009 to the effect that 'Forced into action by a dramatically changing security environment that has only worsened since the Mumbai attacks (26/11), the UPA government (had) started drawing up a first-ever national security doctrine'.

There has been no word since then as to the progress made in that direction.

There has obviously been none for, on October 22, 2010, we find the prime minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, calling for an 'enlightened national security policy', with the concept of contemporary national security being set 'within a wider strategic and economic and social matrix', and based on a 'holistic appreciation of the inter-related aspects and concerns impinging on a nation's overall well-being.'

He also stressed the importance of modernisation of 'defence doctrines', in view of the indispensable role of military power in buttressing the nation's stability and strength, and its ability to defend itself against armed aggression or insurgency.

It is strange that a country like India, which had gone through crisis after crisis resulting from militancy, insurgency and terrorist attacks, surrounded by dangers inherent in confronting, on the one side, a neighbour aspiring for global hegemony and, on the other, a failing State flaunting a nuclear arsenal ever facing the risk of falling into jihadi hands, and other imponderables on the global arena, should still be practising ad hocism in managing its security imperatives.

Contrast this with the US where its NSC is vibrant and active and each president, on assuming charge, is required by law to make public the national security doctrine that his administration intends to follow.

For instance, the Obama administration's national security doctrine had thrown overboard George W Bush's policy of pre-emptive strikes and regime change. It took an all-inclusive approach to national security, integrating diplomatic engagement, domestic economic situation and relations among communities at home with military power to bolster America's standing in the world.

President Donald J Trump's administration is yet to come out with its formulation.

A national security doctrine for India is long overdue. A vision and mission statement of the kind will impart a sense of purpose and direction and a self-regenerating momentum to organised efforts on that front.

It must embody the country's larger policy goals in which the security doctrine, if it is to be both convincing and effective, has to be anchored.

It will be wrong to interpret security purely in terms of armaments, arsenals, weapons systems, and other military hardware, or to expect to quell insurrections, insurgencies and other outbreaks of unrest by applying force alone.

The processes of governance and the working of the State machinery should be so designed as to remove all scope for alienation or hostility driving people to resort to desperation and resistance.

In view of the interconnectivities of the borderless, global village that the world has become, the national security of any one country is impacted by the conditions prevailing in other countries which, in turn, have a bearing on their security.

Environmental security is a prime example of a situation where national borders, and even national sovereignties, are of absolutely no relevance.

The eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano in March 2010 and the traumatic effects of the multiple catastrophe that struck Japan in the same month in 2011 had implications for the economy, and indirectly for the security, of the rest of the world as well.

Stemming from the above reasoning, there is a view that country-specific approach to security has become outmoded, and the aim must now be to have a doctrine that encompasses the entire world.

In other words, the proposed new normal is that there must be a shift from a national to a global model of security.

However, this may not be an acceptable proposition yet. For, even in an interconnected and interdependent world, each country has distinct security dimensions which justify country-specific treatment.

Any security doctrine is predicated upon an exact delineation of the country's security environment. Very often, security policy planners take the prevailing security environment as a given, and work around it while drawing up the security parameters.

They fall for this mistaken approach because it is the least demanding and draws on conventional wisdom.

Instead, security planning should be a dynamic, proactive process, of which the central goal should be to bring about changes in the security environment itself so as to reduce the extent and severity of the threats to the country and maximise the gains in terms of peace, stability and economic and social well-being of the people.

For instance, by being focused on adopting a policy of accommodation, understanding, goodwill, and friendship towards its neighbours in a spirit of self-confidence and self-assurance, India can do a lot to transform the heated security ambience into one of mutually fruitful co-opetition (a blend of cooperation and competition).

Any amount of creative energy, innovation and ingenuity spent on such a forward thrust by leveraging the country's stature deriving from its democratic credentials, military prowess, past accomplishments and diplomatic capabilities is worthwhile for several reasons.

First and foremost, it forces the country's ruling dispensation, combining within itself the political class, the policy-makers and the defence and security establishments to do some fresh and original thinking, and have a scrutinising second look at the validity of old assumptions, fixations and obsessions.

Second, to the extent it enables jettisoning of the baggage found to be of no use in the current context and foreseeable future, it helps in the reordering of priorities in tune with the newly fashioned security landscape.

Third, it stops the haemorrhage of resources in defence build-up, para-military, police and intelligence establishments, insures against surprises by constant readiness against attacks, and helps re-direct resources for the country's overall progress and development to raise the quality of life of its people.

Fourth, the very fact of a country demonstrating its willingness to reach out and build bridges will have a multiplier effect among other countries, especially those with whom the relations were previously tense, by lifting the levels of trust and faith in each other, and thus work to the benefit of all.

The most vital point to remember in all this is that security itself has become indivisible. The lethality of any conflict or confrontation, whether inside or outside the country, is today of a scale that merits the apt acronym MAD (mutually-assured destruction).

To borrow a verbal barb from Winston Churchill, all the idiot children have the matches. It no longer makes sense to compartmentalise security into internal or external or ignore the impact of food, energy and livelihood security, and indeed, of the economic milieu as a whole.

A casual, case-by-case approach to defence or security policy, overlooking the importance of dovetailing it with the country's total planning effort and economic, industrial and agricultural policy framework is a clear invitation to disaster.

Finally, the government should promote an informed debate on security issues by taking people and Parliament into confidence.

A strong and enlightened base of citizen awareness is essential to guard against the government acting on momentary prejudices and impulses.

Forging a national consensus on vital and sensitive issues of national security is an invaluable adjunct of security policy formulation, as it will be reflective of the nation's collective will that no one dare trifle with.

I would even forcefully plead that there is no need to wait passively for the government to act.

There are so many distinguished diplomats, security experts, military veterans and policy makers who have, in their time, handled macro- and micro-security and strategic issues. They should get together and work on a national security doctrine according to their best lights and present it to the government as a spur to action.

B S Raghavan is a former member of the Indian Administrative Service who has been head of the political and security policy planning division at the Union home ministry, and member of the Joint Intelligence Council between 1961 and 1969.'A stronger response on the border, some action needs to be taken against Pakistan from where the terrorists come, and finally what needs to be done is to calm Kashmir down,' Lieutenant General D S Hooda (retd) -- the Northern Army Commander under whose watch the Indian Army conducted the 2016 surgical strikes -- tells Rediff.com in an exclusive interview.



IMAGE: The Indian Army's Sunjuwan military base in Jammu which was attacked by terrorists on February 10.

Since 2008, according to the South Asian Terrorism Portal, as reported by The Hindu, 135 soldiers have been martyred and 55 terrorists killed in 33 attacks on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir.

Six soldiers were martyred in a pre-dawn attack by heavily armed terrorists on a military camp in Sunjuwan, Jammu, on Saturday, February 10.

The last terror attack on an army garrison was in November 2016 in Nagrota.

One of the martyrs, Lance Naik Mohammad Iqbal's father was also killed in the Sunjuwan camp which also housed soldiers' families.

Doctors battled to save the life of a pregnant woman who sustained bullet injuries and delivered a baby in the military hospital.

Two officers, three men and six relatives are injured. The operation to cleanse the Sunjuwan camp of all terrorists has not ended yet.

As the highest-ranking army officer in charge of the Line of Control and Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant General D S Hooda (retd) has had his boots on the ground in fragile J&K.

He was the general in charge of the surgical strikes across the Line of Control on September 28-29 2016. It was the most difficult operation under his watch.

"If there is a semblance of calm in Kashmir, automatically Pakistan will start losing some of the support for such activities," General Hooda tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih in an exclusive interview.

"Ultimately, you have to get people on your side," he emphasises in a detailed, candid, conversation.

As the former Northern Army commander, what thoughts go through your mind when you hear of attacks on army camps like at the Sunjuwan military station in Jammu?

The first thing you hope is for the casualties to be minimal.

When it is a base which has families and children the first fear and thought is that hopefully there won't be many lives lost or people hurt.

The casualties among women and children worsens the situation.

By targeting women and children in a military camp, do you think the terrorists are changing tactics? Pushing the limits of barbarity?

I don't think so. These are terrorists. The more horrific the act, the more eyeballs will it grab.

In regular military operations the idea is to minimise civilian casualties, but these terrorists don't have any such compunctions or compulsions.

Why are our military installations so vulnerable to terrorist attacks?

These are questions that are always asked.

The answer is -- sure you need to protect your bases better. But can we today completely rely on a human being, an individual and expect him to do everything?

And not empower him, not help him by giving him security measures which are required to strengthen garrisons.

There was a whole plan that was made to integrate technology and have better systems to protect garrisons. Then it sits with the government for 2 or 3 years. That is an area we need to look at.

If we are going to say there is a laxity and soldiers are to blame every time an attack takes place, we are putting too much pressure on the individual.

It is night time, there is a perimeter which spreads over kilometre on kilometre, if we are going to say we are going to keep soldiers every 100 metres at night, then who is going to man the borders?

You can't deploy them all in protecting the garrisons and leave the borders!

I think we need to empower soldiers a little more.

We have been saying this for a long time. We had the General Philip Campose Committee (which probed the attack on the Pathankot air base on January 2, 2016) which came out with a plan.

Individually, all of us had sent detailed plans on how we need to make our garrison security better.

And those plans have not been worked upon optimally?

Suddenly after the attack takes place, the ministry of defence gave a statement that it has released Rs 1,400 crores which should have been done two years ago.

After the Pathankot attack how has security at military camps improved? Has it not improved as it should have?

It is not like that. I know an attack has happened and people will ask how has it happened one more time.

A garrison has been attacked after a year or so. The last attack on an army camp was in Nagrota in November 2016. There are thousands of garrisons in Jammu and Kashmir.

Measures are in place and the army is doing its best with whatever funds are available within the army.

A lot of improvement has taken place, but we need to look at it with a larger perspective and see how garrison security can be bettered.

What you are saying is that the soldier needs to be equipped with better technology, in addition to physical security like patrolling the fencing of camps?

Absolutely. There are limits to human endurance. How much can the soldier do?

We need to empower and equip him and do everything for him.

If you expect soldiers to stand every 100 yards in the winter through the night when temperatures are below freezing, we are asking for too much.

SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) are all there, but it is not as if the required technology is not available today. If it is available, it should be provided, it is as simple as that.

What is the most important equipment needed by soldiers for securing military camps?

You need a physical perimetre security like a wall, which is largely there in place in all camps.

What is required is sensors, which set off an alarm when somebody cuts the wires.

You need night vision cameras with motion detection software. These are simple equipment.

Yes, you need to physically guard your gate, but around the perimeter you need a smart sensor system which alerts you when there is a breach.

We had made the plan for each individual garrison.

A detailed plan for each garrison was made and sent with the requirement of funds for it.

But it has been sitting with the government for two years.

Are there no garrisons in J&K which have these kind of sensors currently?

I am not saying that. It is being done slowly with whatever funds are available with the army. But those funds are meagre. They are used for a lot of things.

It needs to be taken up as a project. If the MoD figure is Rs 1,500 crore or so, obviously that kind of money is not available to the troops on ground.

It has to be taken as a full fledged project. The funds have to be allocated. Merely making announcements won't do.

If you go back last year after an attack, there was a statement from the MoD that we have issued an advisory.

Troops don't need advisories. They know they have to be careful, they know these terrorists are about.

What they need is the funds to get the project going. That is going to help.

I am not saying that soldiers don't have to do their bit. They have to be prepared, awake, SoPs have to be in place.

All that is also being done, but we need to help and equip the soldier better.

We used to struggle to provide sleep to the guys.

In the morning, the jawan does work assigned to him. A soldier does his training in the mornings, does administrative office work, tends to his equipment and at night, he gets up to man the security.

Soldiers in military cantonments are not only doing security duties.

There is no separate security corps.

Do you think a separate corps is needed to secure cantonments and garrisons?

Where will that come from?

As it is there is so much criticism that the army has so much manpower, and they have a huge revenue budget.

I don't think we need more men. We need more technology and communication.

That is going to help. I am told some of the big private companies have super fancy surveillance systems. That is what is needed.

And the government needs to take this up very proactively?

Yes, everything is there. The data has been compiled. We had made the plan for each individual garrison, I remember.

We had stated what was required. Some had boundary walls, some did not.

A detailed plan for each garrison was made and sent with the requirement of funds for it.

But as I said, it has been sitting with them for two years.

Now the day the attack takes place, the MoD comes out with a statement that they have approved it knowing that they would invite some criticism.



IMAGE: General Hooda pays tribute at the Kargil War Memorial at Drass in Jammu and Kashmir, July 26, 2016. Photograph: PTI

Data in the Hindu newspaper says that since 2008, 33 attacks have taken place on security forces in J&K, where 135 soldiers have been martyred and 55 terrorists killed.

The surgical strikes were undertaken, yet no one expected that it would stop all future attacks -- so what is the way forward and the best way of dealing with such attacks?

While we are talking about one attack that has been successfully done by the terrorists, we don't know how many have been thwarted.

There are two things, while you have to protect yourself, in the larger context, where are these guys coming from? Pakistan.

That is something we need to seriously think about. What are we going to do about Pakistan?

I don't want to sound like a war monger, but some action needs to be taken against Pakistan.

Some action like?

Some action on the border to put pressure on Pakistan.

Like the surgical strikes or more aggressive than that?

A stronger response on the border.

Some cross-border strikes and finally what needs to be done is to calm Kashmir down.

If that happens there won't be so much support for such kind of activity.

As long as Kashmir is on the boil, Pakistan will continue to take advantage of the situation, and some of these guys will get support from the local population.

We need to seriously look at how things can be improved in the valley. We are trying to underplay the problem in Kashmir.

Until there is calm in Kashmir, India cannot deal with Pakistan?

If there is a semblance of calm, automatically Pakistan will start losing some of the support and motivation.

There was a time when areas of Jammu -- Rajouri, Doda, Kishtwar -- were as violent as Kashmir was, but things have calmed down there.

The population does not support militancy. This is not only in areas of Hindu population. Rajouri, Poonch are Muslim dominated districts and things have cooled down.

Ultimately, you have to get people on your side. The same thing holds true for Kashmir.

It is going to be a little more difficult but unless people don't come out and say what is happening is not good, things will not get better.

So you have to continue to put pressure on Pakistan on the border and at the same time maintain some element of calm in the valley?

Exactly. It (the government) should be hard on Pakistan and soft on the population.

Sometimes the impression gets created that it is the other way around -- muscular against our own people and a ceasefire with Pakistan.

My personal viewpoint is that at least the impression that is being created is the opposite of what should be conveyed.Airbus' $99 million payout puts a new light on Eurofighter's 'unsolicited bid' to the Modi government, reducing the cost of the Typhoon fighter by 20 per cent, making it in retrospect significantly cheaper than the Rafale.

Ajai Shukla reports.



IMAGE: India ignored the Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH bid for its Typhoon fighter and opted for Rafale fighter jets. Photograph: Ints Kalnins/Reuters

Over the preceding week, India's political landscape has been roiled by accusations that the government favoured French aerospace vendor Dassault with a multi-billion order for 36 Rafale fighters, ignoring a cheaper bid belatedly submitted by the European consortium, Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH (hereafter Eurofighter) for its Typhoon fighter.

Now Eurofighter is battling damaging scrutiny over corruption allegations.

On Friday, February 9, German prosecutors ordered Airbus to pay 81.25 million (Rs 641 crore or $99 million) to settle charges that the firm bribed Austrian politicians in 2003 to buy the Typhoon in a contract worth $2 billion (Rs 12,855 crore).

Eurofighter is made up of aerospace corporations from four European nations.

The German and Spanish entities of Airbus Defence & Space own a majority 46 per cent stake, the United Kingdom-headquartered BAE Systems owns 33 per cent while the Italian corporation Leonardo S.p.A. -- earlier named Finmeccanica, and still banned in India -- holds the remaining 21 per cent.

According to Reuters, 'The settlement includes an administrative fine of 250,000 (Rs 2 crore) and 'disgorgement' -- which legal experts broadly define as the recovery of ill-gotten gains -- of 81 million (Rs 640 crore).'

German prosecutors stated they found no evidence of bribery in the Eurofighter sale to Austria, but Airbus 'had been unable to account for over 100 million in payments to two shell companies.'

The prosecutors stated that these funds were sent for 'unclear purposes', evading internal control mechanisms within the company.

This puts a new light on Eurofighter's 'unsolicited bid', submitted on July 4, 2014, to the newly elected National Democratic Alliance government, reducing the cost of the Typhoon fighter by 20 per cent, making it in retrospect significantly cheaper than the Rafale.

The bid was apparently offered a path to bypass the deadlock over pricing with Dassault.

In 2011, Dassault's Rafale and Eurofighter's Typhoon fighters were the only two aircraft to have passed Indian Air Force flight trials in its global contest to buy 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft.

In 2012, Dassault's commercial bid was adjudged the lowest offer by India's defence ministry.

The Defence Procurement Procedure did not permit the government to reintroduce Eurofighter into the negotiating process after Dassault's bid was declared L-1.

However, once the government scrapped the deadlocked MMRCA procurement and opted instead to buy 36 fighters over-the-counter, it had the option to reintroduce Eurofighter into a competitive bidding process.

Instead, it opted for a single-vendor procurement from Dassault, under a government-to-government umbrella.

Besides the financial penalty imposed on Airbus in Germany, a separate investigation is underway in Vienna, where Austrian prosecutors are enquiring into Airbus and its chief executive, Tom Enders, who headed the company's defence business from 2000 to 2005.

Airbus and Enders deny any wrongdoing, and accuse the Austrian government of playing politics.Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday pitched afresh for a dialogue between India and Pakistan to end the violence in the restive state, even as a gunfight raged between terrorists and security forces in Srinagar.

The chief minister also hit out at some media houses, which, she claimed, have created an atmosphere in which the very talk of talks was considered anti-national.

"If Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti say hold talks with Pakistan, they are dubbed anti-national. There is no alternative (to resolve the issue) except by holding talks," Mehbooba told the state assembly in Jammu on the concluding day of the budget session.

"If we (the Kashmiris) don't talk about it (dialogue), who will? Not a Bihari, not a Punjabi," she said.

A Central Reserve Police Force constable was killed in a gunfight with terrorists in downtown Srinagar after security forces foiled militants' attempts to strike a CRPF camp. The terrorists were still holed up in an abandoned house in Karan Nagar in the heart of the city where intermittent firing was on.

Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiyba, meanwhile, has claimed responsibility for the attack on the CRPF camp. Its Kashmir chief Mehmood Shah claimed in an e-mailed statement that the attack was perpetrated by its activists.

The heavily-armed terrorists tried to strike the CRPF camp, located very close to SMHS Hospital from where Lashkar-e-yTaiba terrorist Naveed Jutt alias Abu Hanzala was freed from police custody by terrorists on February 6.

The incident comes two days after terrorists attacked an army camp in Sunjuwan area of Jammu, killing six people including five soldiers. Three terrorists were also killed in retaliation by the army.

"The search operation is still on (at the camp)," Jammu-based army public relations officer Lt Col Devender Anand said.

India and Pakistan, Mehbooba told the House, have fought three wars but the Kashmir problem has been been resolved.

"We have fought three wars in 1947, 1965 and 1971 and have won all of them, even Kargil war, but our basic problem has not been resolved," she said, insisting a solution to the Kashmir question lay in talks alone.

Noting that Kashmiris were losing lives on the borders and in hinterland, civilians or security personnel, she said she was happy that both the opposition and the ruling parties in the state favoured dialogue for conflict resolution.

She assailed "some TV channels" for vitiating the atmosphere in the state.

"There are some media houses that have created an atmosphere where even talking about talks has become anti- national. They hold worst debates with polarised mindset. They bring people from Kashmir who are not even known in their own colonies.

"They always speak anti-India. They are picked up because they use unparliamentary and bad language, particularly against India, and same type of people are picked from the other side to reply to them," Mehbooba said.

Recalling her father, the late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, she said the former chief minister always favoured dialogue as a tool to strengthen democracy, which, he felt, was a battle of ideas.IMAGE: Congress president Rahul Gandhi gestures during a public meeting in Gulbarga on Monday. Photograph: PTI Photo



Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of creating friction between communities and 'igniting' fire, as he ramped up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his campaign in poll-bound Karnataka.

"Wherever there is a BJP government like the ones in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, violence prevails," he alleged at a public rally in Jewargi on the third day of his first leg of campaign in north Karnataka.

He said, "At some places, they kill Dalits, minorities and tribals. They pit one section of society against another and ignite fire. In Haryana they pitted Jat against non-Jat. And they come here and talk about violence."

"Peace prevails here Modiji. Go and see what is happening in UP, Haryana, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. There is violence which is being spread. So don't talk about violence and corruption when you visit Karnataka. People of Karnataka are intelligent and they know everything," he said.

Gandhi asserted that Congress believed in taking everyone together and moving forward.

The Congress president, who addressed public and roadside meetings in Raichur and Kalaburagi districts, continued his attack on Modi, saying he should speak about allegations of corruption against BJP president Amit Shah's son.

Gandhi,on a four-day 'Janashirvad Yatra', said Modi should look 'left and right' before talking of corruption.

"If you want to talk about corruption, talk a bit about Amit Shah son's corruption. How he made Rs 80 crore out of Rs 50,000 in three months. You should also be telling this to the country," he said.

Amit Shah has rejected allegations of corruption against his son Jay Shah, who has filed a criminal defamation suit against the news portal which claimed his business fortunes had zoomed after BJP came to power in 2014.

Addressing people who had gathered to welcome him before he continued his campaign in the state's Hyderabad-Karnataka region, Gandhi also lashed out at BJP leaders in the state.

IMAGE: Congress president Rahul Gandhi, along with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaih, former minister Veerappa Moily, party MP Mallikarjun Kharge and other leaders eating 'Mirchi Bajji', a local snack, at Kalamala, 16 km from Raichur on Monday. Photograph: Courtesy @INCKarnataka/Twitter

"Modiji you talk of corruption. Modiji, if you have some time after talking of the past, look at your left and right sides...."

"On one side is (B S) Yeddyurappa who has been to jail. On the other side, as many as four (former) ministers who went to jail... and behind, 11 leaders who had to resign on charges of corruption," he said.

Gandhi said Modi had 'failed' to create jobs and address farmer distress.

"Modiji, people of this country gave you work, farmers had given you work, youth had told you that our competition is with China. China provides job to 50,000 youths in 24 hours. Modiji has failed," he said.

Travelling in a customised bus along with other leaders from the state, Gandhi was greeted by party workers and people who lined up on both sides of the road at various places.

Speaking to reporters at Shahpur in Yadgir district, Gandhi, who is facing the charge of practising 'soft Hindutva', defended his visits to temples and religious places, asserting that he would continue it.

"I like going to temples, wherever I get religious place I go there. I feel good and feel happy, and I will continue (to go)," he said.

Gandhi was responding to BJP state President B S Yeddyurappa's 'Election Hindu' jibe at him.

'I heartily welcome #ElectionHindu @OfficeOfRG to Ballari. The #Congress President will fulfill our dream of a #CongressMuktKarnataka,' Yeddyurappa had said in a tweet, ahead of Gandhi's visit to the state from February 10.

Gandhi's temple run in his election itinerary,which began in the run-up to the Gujarat assembly polls, has invited flak from BJP, which has dubbed it as an election exercise.

Other critics have called it 'soft Hindutva'.

The Hyderabad-Karnataka region comprises districts of Bidar, Yadgir, Raichur, Koppal, Ballari and Kalaburagi which were part of the Nizam-ruled Hyderabad state till 1948.

Gandhi will wind up his tour on Tuesday, interacting with professionals and business community and a visit to 'Anubhava Mantapa' at Basavakalyan in Bidar,akin to Parliament, started by 12th century social reformer Basavanna.

During his current tour to north Karnataka, Gandhi visited Goddess Huligamma temple, a famous shrine in the region, and Gavi Siddheshwara Mutt, a mutt of the majority Lingayat community.

He also visited a Dargah in Raichur on Monday.

In his brief interaction with reporters, Gandhi asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Yeddyurappa to inform people about the reasons why ministers during BJP rule in the state had to go to jail.

"When Yeddyurappa and Modiji speak about corruption, they should inform people that during BJP rule four ministers had gone to jail, Yeddyurappa himself had gone to jail and 11 ministers had to resign. Let them explain about it," he said.

Gandhi again questioned the prime minister about the Rafale fighter jet deal, reiterating his charge that the contract was taken away from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and given to Modi's 'friend'.

"Why did you take away contract from HAL? Why did you take away jobs from youth of Karnataka? Why did you do this to give it to your friend? What was the logic behind it?," he asked.

Questioning whether the requisite permissions were taken from the cabinet committee on security, Gandhi asked what the aircraft's price was.

"Earlier Defence minister said she will share the price details to the country. After three to four months she is saying the matter is a state secret. Was it not state secret earlier?," he asked.

Attacking the Modi government for demonetisation and GST terming it as 'Gabbar Singh Tax', the congress leader said the measures have 'shut' all businesses in the country.

BJP slams Rahul for visiting temple 'after eating chicken'

Meanwhile, Yeddyurappa hit out at the Congress president for reportedly visiting a temple after eating 'Javari chicken'.

'At one side there is 10 per cent CM Siddaramaiah who took darshan of Dharmasthala Manjunatha after eating fish, on the other side there is Election Hindu @OfficeOfRG (Rahul Gandhi) who took darshan of Narasimha swamy after eating Javari chicken,' Yeddyurappa said in a tweet in Kannada.

'Why is Congress repeatedly hurting Hindu sentiments? Looking at every one equally is Samajawad (socialism), your's is majawad (enjoyment)," Yeddyurappa said in the tweet with clippings of reports about Gandhi visiting the temple after 'eating' chicken.

Last year, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was involved in a controversy for eating fish at lunch before going to the Lord Manjunatha Swamy temple.

It was seen as disrespect to the main deity of the temple, with the issue creating a buzz in the social media.

However, Siddaramaiah had dismissed the criticism. Gandhi, who is on a temple trail during his election campaign in northern Karnataka districts, had on Sunday stopped at Kanakagiri in Koppal district and visited the Kanakachala Laxmi-Narasimha temple.

The temple, built by a local chieftain, has a history of 500 years of existence.New York Attorney General Eric T Schneiderman has filed a lawsuit against disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein, his brother Bob, and their production house on their alleged failure to uphold the state and city laws against gender discrimination and sexual harassment.

The lawsuit comes four months after the producer was accused of sexual harassment, including rape, over a span of three decades, by multiple women such as actors Ashley Judd, Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, Lea Seydoux, Salma Hayek and Uma Thurman, among others.

The case has been filed electronically in Manhattan's State Supreme Court and the timing is expected to cause a delay in the sale of The Weinstein Company, which is facing bankruptcy, the New York Times reported.

Any sale of the Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched, Schneiderman said in a news release.

The deal was said to be finalised on Sunday.

The company was on the verge of selling itself to an investor group for approximately USD 275 million, plus the assumption of USD 225 million in debt, according to two people in the know of the deal who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The investor group, led by Maria Contreras-Sweet, best known for handling the Small Business Administration under former U S President Barack Obama, has publicly said it would create a multi-million dollar settlement fund for women who have accused Weinstein of abuse.

TWC has been trying to salvage itself since Weinstein's sexual harassment scandal broke out in October last year.

Los Angeles Police Department and New York Police Department have already launched probes against Weinstein.Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday blamed Pakistan for the terror attack at the Sunjuwan Military Camp in Jammu and made it clear that it will pay the price for the 'misadventure'.

She asserted that even though evidence of Pakistan's role may be shared, India still reserved the 'right to respond adequately at the time our choosing'.

"Pakistan will pay for this misadventure. I repeat Pakistan will pay for it, the defence minister, who arrived in Jammu to take stock of the situation told reporters.

A group of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists had struck the Sunjuwan military camp in the wee hours on Saturday, killing six people including five soldiers.

Three terrorists were also gunned down.

"I would not certainly set a timeline but Pakistan will pay for this misadventure. I can only assure the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the entire country that the Army, both the governments at the state and the Centre, are definitely looking at it with all seriousness," she said.

Asked whether the government was sharing evidence with Pakistan, Sitharaman replied in the affirmative.

"Yes, all the evidences which have been collected will be compiled and definitely the evidences will be given as always to Pakistan. But Pakistan, inspite of being given dossiers after dossiers, has not taken any action, she said.

On the contrary, we find people directly responsible for the Mumbai attack and many others still free and roaming happily in Pakistan, the defence minister said.

She said the Centre would provide evidence to prove that the handlers of the terrorists were back in Pakistan and were influencing the attack.

Sitharaman said giving evidence to Pakistan would have to be a continuous process because it has to be proven over and over again, as many number of times, so that their involvement is there for everybody to see.

"The evidences will strengthen that argument. But giving that does not deny us our right to respond adequately and at a time of which we think fit," she said.

Sitharaman hailed the coordination among various security agencies operating in the state and said 'there will be more information sharing with state police'.

Sitharaman said intelligence inputs suggested that terrorists who attacked the Sunjuwan Camp were controlled by handlers from across the border.

Three terrorists were killed even as the initial information was about four of them, she said adding that the fourth may have acted as a guide.

The attack by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists, sponsored by Pakistan based Azhar Masood, resulted in the death of six people including five soldiers, she told reporters.

Counter terrorist operation at the military camp was called off this morning but sanitisation operations were still on, she added.

The defence minister said the JeM module which conducted the attack may have infiltrated sometime back and possibly enjoyed local support.

"The demography of the cantonment and adjoining areas indicate the possibility of local support to the terrorists and an alert had been sounded on the likelihood of an attack by the terrorists around this period," she said.

The defence minister said that quick reaction teams (QRTs) were deployed in vulnerable areas. It was assessed that Pak-Sponsored terrorists may target softer elements, hence, QRTs were also positioned at Sunjuwan family quarters, she said.

Sitharaman said the intrusions of the terrorists was promptly detected by the sentry and challenged by a nearby QRT leading to the brief exchange of fire.

"This immediate action forced terrorists to split into individual positions and prevented a coordinated strike. The scattered terrorists reached the family quarters and occupied some of the blocks," she said.

They were isolated, and since the terrorists were dressed in battle fatigues, and had an appearance similar to to their possible victims, the operation had to be done 'deliberately slow' to avoid collateral damages, she said.

"The operation entailed the deliberate search of 26 blocks and safe evacuation of families from 189 flats which was time consuming and a challenging task, she said.

Sitharaman also blamed Pakistan for infiltration of terrorists into J&K and said it was expanding the arc of terror to the areas south of Pir Panjal Ranges.

On her meeting with chief minister, the defence minister said Mufti expressed deep anguish and concern because she too had been to the military hospital and seen the injured recovering there.

"She was absolutely emotionally charged when she said women and children were attacked. I shared my grief with her also," she said.

Asked about the situation in the state, she said 'whether it has improved or not, I am not going to say anything on that. We, in coordination with home ministry and ministry of external affairs, are working with the state government to improve the situation and will continue to work in this direction'.

She said all have to work together to make sure that the Army is taken care of, because they are fighting a very very severe struggle. Sitharaman also visited the injured at the hospital on Monday.

IMAGES: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman visits the injured in Shunjuwan Army Camp attack at a military hospital in Jammu on Monday. Photograph: ANIThe PM held wide-ranging talks with the Sultan of Oman and signed eight agreements, including pacts on cooperation in the field of defence, health and tourism.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi eld wide-ranging talks with the Sultan of Oman Qaboos bin Said al Said and discussed measures to strengthen cooperation. Photograph: @MEAIndia/Twitter

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday held wide-ranging talks with the Sultan of Oman as the two sides signed eight agreements, including pacts on cooperation in the field of defence, health and tourism.

Modi, who arrived from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, led delegation-level talks with Qaboos bin Said al Said and discussed measures to strengthen cooperation in trade and investment, energy, defence, security, food security and regional issues.

Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of honest and hard working Indian nationals in the development of Oman.

IMAGE: Modi told the members of the Indian community that they are partners in realising the vision of new India. Photograph: PTI Photo

After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Omans Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation.

IMAGE: Modi arrived in Oman after his visit to Ramallah and the United Arab Emirates.

Photograph: PTI Photo

During his two-day visit, Modi will also meet Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said.

Earlier addressing the Indian diaspora, the PM took a dig at the Congress, saying Indias image had suffered due to a long list of scams in the previous regime and his government worked hard to change the style of misgovernance.

Modi said that with the mantra of minimum government, maximum governance, his government was working to make the life of citizens easier.

The country cannot progress in the 21st century with a style of misgovernance. The long list of scams (in previous regime) had harmed Indias image. We have worked hard to bring out the country from that phase of misgovernance, he said.

IMAGE: Speaking to the Indian Diaspora, Modi said that his government was working towards a new India where the poorest of the poor can strive to achieve their dream. Photograph: MEA/Flickr

Modi said his government has scraped 1,400-1,450 outdated laws, made procedures simple, pays attention to peoples problems with sincerity and take action on them as part of efforts to change the culture of governance in new India.

All of us are working towards a new India where the poorest of the poor can strive to achieve their dream, Modi told a cheering crowd during his hour-long speech.

The people have already started to feel a change, he said, amid chants of Modi Modi.

Modi told the members of the Indian community that they are partners in realising the vision of new India.

The eight lakh Indians in Oman are good-will ambassadors who have contributed to the development of the country. I get a feeling of home in Oman. This is possible only because of the people and the leadership of Oman, he said.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inspects the guard of honur with the Deputy Prime Minister of Oman, Fahd bin Mahmood Al Said, upon his arrival, in Muscat. Photograph: PTI Photo

The PM said that the fact that he delivered the inaugural address at the World Government Summit in Dubai shows that Indias stature is growing.

For the last three years, we have been improving Indias relationship with the Gulf countries, he said, adding that with Indias increasing progress and credibility, the Gulf countries have increased their interest in the country.

Modi said the ties of India and Oman have always remained strong despite the ups and downs in the political environment in both the countries.

He also said that Indian diaspora has played an essential role in strengthening these ties.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.A pregnant woman, who was injured in an attack by armed terrorists on the family quarters at the Sunjuwan military camp in Jammu, delivered a baby girl in the hospital on Sunday.

Rifleman Nazir Ahmed and his pregnant wife were injured in the firing by the terrorists and were shifted to the Military Hospital at Satwari, an army official said.

The army doctors worked all night to save the life of the severely injured pregnant woman with gunshots wounds and helped her deliver a baby girl, following a caesarean section operation, said Jammu-based army public relations officer Lt Col Devender Anand.

Both the mother and the baby are stable, he added.

Lt Col Anand said the condition of a 14-year-old boy, who was admitted to the hospital with a gunshot wound in his head, however remained critical.

Five army men, including two junior commissioned officers, and the father of an armyman died, 11 others were injured. Three Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists were also killed in the two-day gunbattle, following the terror attack on the military camp on Saturday.

Image: Rifleman Nazir Ahmed's wife was severely injured when three Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists attacked the Sunjuwan military camp in Jammu. Photograph: ANI/TwitterTensions continue to rise at IIT Indore over apology letters and quality of food.

Jyoti Punwani reports.



IMAGE: Indian Institute of Technology Indore students gather outside IITI Director Pradeep Mathur's bungalow to draw his attention to their grievances.

Is a peaceful demonstration by students wrong?

The Indian Institute of Technology Indore authorities certainly seem to think so.

On January 18, students of the prestigious institute protested on campus outside the residence of IITI Director Professor Pradeep Mathur, against the sudden closure of a popular canteen that had been running on a trial basis.

They repeated the protest the next day, and the director addressed them the next evening.

Now, students are being asked to submit apology letters for having participated in the January 18-19 protests.

Almost all the first year students and about 40 second year students have been asked by their faculty to submit apology letters. The demand is being made even of those who did not attend the protests.

As reported on Rediff.com, a day after the protests, the general secretary of the elected Students Gymkhana was removed from his post. Two faculty members visited his parents in Bihar to inform them about his activities.

Parents of other students, including Gymkhana members, were summoned. Many students received notices to appear before disciplinary committees.

But while the backlash to the students' protest has been swift and harsh, the source of their discontent -- unhygienic and overpriced food in their hostel mess, and a reduction in buses for about 400 post-graduate students who live 18 km away from the campus -- remains unaddressed.

For the last two years, students have been asking for the removal of the contractor who runs their mess and also a separate canteen on campus. That has not happened.

On the contrary, insects and algae allegedly now appear in the food and water served by the private cafeteria, which is run by the same contractor.



IMAGE: An Indian Institute of Technology Indore student's Facebook post alleges cockroaches spotted inside the cafeteria's food display.

Last week, says a student's Facebook post, a dead insect was found in a vegetable patty at the cafeteria. An earlier tweet by another student shows cockroaches inside the food display counter of the cafe.

Students do have one alternative to the existing caterer: Another private canteen which they find too expensive. On February 7, this canteen announced discounted rates -- a 30% discount for undergraduates and 25% for post-graduates.

But a comparison with its old and new rates shows that for undergraduates, the reduction in rates ranges from Rs 5 to Rs 1! Only in one item is there a Rs 10 reduction.

For post-graduates, even after the discount, the rates of all items have remained the same, and have actually gone up by Rs 5 in one item!

At their wits' end, and unable to communicate with the authorities since their representative body, the Students Gymkhana, stands dissolved, students have taken to social media.

A February 6 tweet marked to the Food Safety and Standards Authority, challenging it to conduct raids on the campus, has received a reply from the regulatory body: 'Your query has been forwarded to the concerned division for further action.'

The PMO has also been tagged in the tweet.

IMAGE: An Indian Institute of Technology Indore student's allegation of harassment by faculty.

These issues were described as "internal issues" by the media coordinator when Rediff.com spoke to her earlier this month. They were being sorted out by the authorities in consultation with students, she had said.

But the students maintain there is no communication regarding these issues. They have now sent e-mails describing the situation to all concerned government authorities, in which they quote the director as saying: 'Students will not decide which cafeteria runs inside the campus' and 'providing transportation is not the obligation of the institution'.

'Given that the mess/cafeteria food is primarily consumed by students, this amounts to effective non representation of students in decision making bodies of the institution,' says the letter.

The letter points out that there is no bus stop outside the campus, and post-graduate students have to make their own arrangements for transport.

The authorities' attitude washing their hands off their responsibility to provide transport -- which the post-graduate students are willing to pay for -- goes against the recommendations of the Justice Verma committee, says the letter, and asks whether IIT Indore is waiting for another Nirbhaya to occur.

The letter has got a response from just one of the many authorities it was sent to: The National Human Rights Commission. The mail from the NHRC says the letter has been received and a Diary Number allotted to it.

The students are now hoping the NHRC will follow up on this mail.For Aanchal Malhotra, the stories of Partition were stories that needed to be told.

It resulted in a book, reports Payal Mohanka, punctuated with endearing moments, uncontrollable tears, a poignant tribute to ordinary people with extraordinary lives.



IMAGE: Maang-tikka brought from D I Khan, North West Frontier Province to Delhi.

'Today is the second time I've ever worn it,' she said, holding it out in her hand.'

'This was an object that had survived the transitions of time, circumstances and geography. It brought them closer somehow, mother and daughter, and a part of my great-grandmother remained in it.'

'I found myself wishing that I had met her, that I had known her for myself. But somehow, because I had worn the necklace too, it made me feel as though I was a part of someone I had never known,' is how Aanchal captions this picture.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Aanchal Malhotra/cargocollective.com

She may have crossed many more borders than she intended.

Piercing the shroud of silence that buried angst-ridden memories of Partition, the most painful event in the history of the subcontinent, 28-year-old Aanchal Malhotra spent four years researching objects that crossed the borders with their owners as they left the land of their birth in search of a new home.

Her book Remnants Of A Separation: A History Of The Partition Through Material Memory salutes the resilient spirit that overcame immeasurable suffering on both sides of the border.

On the sidelines of the Kolkata Literary Meet 2018, I caught up with Aanchal who was among the very young authors participating in the annual festival.

Partition is a subject close to her heart. Aanchal's grandparents had crossed the border from Pakistan and come to India as refugees.

Her paternal grandfather, Balraj Bahri Malhotra, initially sold fountain pens for a shop-keeper in old Delhi's Chandni Chowk area. One day, he heard of a refugee market where land was being given to refugees. His mother sold a gold bangle to help him buy the land.

Today, the reputed bookstore in Khan Market, Bahrisons, is 65 years old and has expanded over the years, encompassing three shops.

"He was a Maths student. Books were really not on his agenda, but he rose to the occasion. As a child, I did not know the story behind the bookstore. All that mattered was that there was always an abundance of reading material," says Aanchal, for whom reading became a passion.

As a teenager, she saw her father Anuj Bahri write a book for her grandfather's 75th birthday gift, Chronicle Of A Bookshop.

Her mother Rajni encouraged her passion for art and Aanchal did her bachelor's and master's in fine arts from Canada.



Kolkata.

'Still smiling, she softly said, 'He used to tell me things -- many, many things -- about his life before they migrated to Calcutta city from Mymensingh zila.

Repeatedly he would narrate the same incidents and I would never tire of listening to them.

What their house looked like, what they used to eat, what happened there in 1947 and how and why they fled.

Many years ago, I even wrote a poem based on his memories.

But what I am trying to tell you is that whatever he remembered then is forgotten now.

So what choice do I have, but to remember for him?

How else will memory be passed down, how else will our children know of it?

You see, the details of years have blurred into each other, making his mind cloudy.

Slowly she placed her palm over his and smiled broadly.

But I remember. I remember for him,' is how Aanchal captions this picture.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Aanchal Malhotra/Instagram

An artist and oral historian, the interviews and research which eventually took the shape of this book, was originally her thesis.

A hugely fulfilling journey, the hardest part for Aanchal was to keep a straight face through the interviews, not break down "and continue asking the questions, no matter how many times. And no matter what the reaction is from the person. I think the worst is when you know you are causing pain. There were times people said, 'Ab bass, beta', enough."

But for Aanchal, these stories needed to be told; they needed to be chronicled.

Punctuated with utterly charming stories, endearing moments, uncontrollable tears, the book is a poignant tribute to ordinary people with extraordinary lives.

There were people who found it cathartic to share and there were those who did not want to re-ignite deeply buried wounds.

Particularly touching is the chapter on Sunil Chandra Sanyal, who moved from East to West Bengal. Due to medical reasons, he has lost his memory.

As his wife narrated his experiences, she said, "Sometimes, I think it is a good thing he no longer remembers. Forgetting is as important as remembering."



IMAGE: Partition is a subject close to Aanchal's heart. Her grandparents had crossed the border from Pakistan and come to India as refugees.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Aanchal Malhotra/Instagram

Aanchal remained objective during the interviews.

It was when she sat down and heard them later that she was overwhelmed.

"How could we have done this to one another? I can't believe people did this to each other. And no one talked about it."

"I keep thinking about how it would have been if there were psychologists working with people who had gone through Partition, just to make men and women talk."

"Partition wouldn't have been a conversation in hushed private quarters; it would have been active memorialisation. It wouldn't have been a secret; it would have been a strength."

It was in 2013, when Aanchal saw two objects that had been brought from Lahore in her maternal grandfather's home in Delhi, that she realised how they seemed to transport the owner to his childhood in Lahore in an undivided India.

It brought back memories of how his mother used these objects: The ghara, a vessel used to churn lassi and a gaz, a yardstick to measure fabric.

"It struck me that we put memory, ambience, landscape and sensation into the objects that belong to us. We put parts of ourselves into these things," she says.



Bakrota Hills.

The green shutters, her eyes are closed, there is a smile on her lips, "I still remember those green shutters."

When she opens her eyes, they are moist with the recollection of a place never to be seen again.

She tells me that her father took years building the house in Dalhousie, pouring in his love and passion.

"Bade shauk se banaya tha, he built it with such fondness. And now imagine, woh border ke uss paar, it is on that side of the border, and we are on this side, humm iss paar."

Though her smile is now sad, it seems deep enough to hold the memories of summers spent in the house with green shutters.

Looking around her Lahori living room, she says in a dreamy voice, "Sometimes when I close my eyes, I can still see that house on the hill. Nearly seventy years later, in my memory that house is still a home".'

Photograph: Kind courtesy Aanchal Malhotra/Instagram

Her new found passion to delve into the past surprised her family but gradually became a collective activity.

Aanchal's incessant questions found answers.

Her family began to source objects for her and gradually by, word of mouth, she was able to locate those who had crossed the borders with objects that would tell their story.

Mundane, everyday objects narrated diverse stories of sacrifice and courage.

For Aanchal it was an incredible discovery when her research affected real life.

Two months after her book was published, a Sikh gentleman walked into her family's bookstore in Khan Market and asked for the author of the book.

Her mother was a little worried as she gently asked if she could help him.

His words stunned her.

He happened to be the present owner of the house in Dalhousie which had been covered in Chapter 17 of Aanchal's book. His family had received this as their settlement after Partition.

In her book, Aanchal had talked of Lahore-based Sitara Faiyaz Ali's inability to forget her father's dream house with green shutters in Dalhousie, which he had built with love and passion.

She hadn't seen it since 1947.

Its photograph was amongst her most precious possessions. "Sometimes, when I close my eyes, I can still see the house. Even 70 years later, in my memory that house is still home," she had told Aanchal.

The appearance of the Sikh gentleman in the bookstore was incredible.

Aaanchal virtually invited herself to Kehkashan, the cottage in Dalhousie, skyped Sitara Faiyaz Ali and witnessed a moving emotional scene.

The current occupants even brought out the original white ceramic nameplate which bore the name of Sitara Faiyaz Ali'S father, Mian Afzal Husain.

"I asked myself why I was taking on a history that was not mine. It came so naturally to me and I realised it was the history of all of us in the subcontinent."

"We have these shared sentiments that connect us to each other. And if you have the ability to make those connections, you should do it."

This May, Aanchal hopes to get 93-year-old Sitara Faiyaz Ali across to India to visit what was once her home before Partition.

Aanchal has already begun work on her next venture, a novel about Indian soldiers on the Western front during World War I.

And, as the co-founder of the Museum of Material Memory, a digital repository of material culture from the Indian subcontinent, her quest continues... tracing families and objects that crossed the border during the most traumatic event in the history of the subcontinent, hoping to unite hearts divided by a brutal act of history.Brazil: proposed bills to regulate online blocking threaten freedom of expression

Publisher Article 19 Publication Date 10 December 2017 Cite as Article 19, Brazil: proposed bills to regulate online blocking threaten freedom of expression, 10 December 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5a8177f24.html [accessed 14 September 2021] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.

In 2015 and 2016, Brazil experienced concerning and unusual situations for freedom of expression and information. On four occasions, court rulings determined that access to WhatsApp would be blocked, leaving millions of people unable to communicate through Brazil's most popular instant messaging application. Following these events, MPs have proposed several bills aimed to regulate the blocking of sites and applications in national territory.

ARTICLE 19 is concerned about Brazil's proposed initiatives to institutionalize measures for the blocking of applications which must always be exceptional and limited. Its report, Blockings of sites and applications in Brazil: contributing to the legislative debate provides an analysis of the four major bills and identifies the main risks they pose. The analysis also details how the proposals fall short on international human rights standards and recommends actions which must be taken for them to comply.

The report stresses that measures to block websites and applications can only be applied in extreme situations according to the 'three part test': They must be imposed by law; have a legitimate purpose (as in the case of protection of childrens rights); and comply with rigorous tests of necessity and proportionality.

ARTICLE 19 also presents other criteria of international standards which must be observed by the bills, among them: the need for a court decision ruling before any blocking and the possibility of challenging blocking orders before an independent court.

Analyses of bills proposed

According to the analysis, bills analysed  PL 5130/2016 and PLS 200/2016  have the most appropriate approaches to international human rights standards, while PL 3968/97 and PL 5204/2016 represent real threats to the freedom of online expression in Brazil.

The positive aspect of PL 5130/2016 in this case is that it eliminates the possibility of applying the blocking of a site or application as a sanction. A similar measure is also provided by PLS 200/2016, which proposes the imposition of a fine in place of the blocking.

PL 5204/2016 intends to allow Internet applications that are hosted abroad or have no representation in Brazil to become inaccessible in the network when linked to defamation crimes. However this initiative could incur further instances of censorship since in judicial processes of this type, the Brazilian Judiciary has been notable for favouring public figures over the right to freedom of expression and information.

In the case of PL 3968/97, the scope of the bill concerns the possibility of blocking access to sites and applications in cases of copyright infringement. However, this should be considered as a disproportionate restriction on freedom of expression and information since the subject is not framed within the extreme situations in which a blocking may occur.

ARTICLE 19 asserts that online blocking practices are an interference to the fundamental right of any person to seek and exchange information and ideas. In addition, considering the current dynamics of the Internet, they are ineffective measures, since they do not guarantee that the blocked content or service will not be transmitted by other means.

Finally, ARTICLE 19 reaffirms that any initiative aimed at allowing or prohibiting blockings of websites and applications in Brazil should take international human rights standards into account. They must recognize that any blocking measure should be exceptional and adopted after  never before  other less harmful measures. In addition, it must always be submitted to the three-part test, observing the parameters of legality, necessity and proportionality.

Report available in Portuguese.

Copyright notice: Copyright ARTICLE 19Iran: Tightening the net: Online openings and closings in Iran

Publisher Article 19 Publication Date 11 December 2017 Cite as Article 19, Iran: Tightening the net: Online openings and closings in Iran, 11 December 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5a817b894.html [accessed 14 September 2021] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.

A lot has happened during the start of payeez (Persian for autumn) in Iran. In this report, our fourth of the Tightening the Net series, ARTICLE 19 looks at Internet development from September to November 2017. A significant event has been the closing of Cloob, the Iranian alternative to Facebook, after its owners gave up their struggle to appease government authorities. This is a significant blow to the National Information Network (NIN), especially as the government continues to maintain a strict policy that the NIN underpins the Supreme Council of Cyberspace (SCC)'s efforts to counter the 'cyberwar' efforts of Iran's 'enemies'.

Our documentation of the implications of the new social media regulations continue, as the SCC warns (again) of imminent filtering of Telegram and Instagram due to the noncompliance of foreign platforms with the new policies.

Chaos on Internet policy, implementation, and the distribution of responsibilities across various institutions are similarly a marker of this period, as the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) struggles to justify the decisions of the judiciary to censor platforms such as Swarm and Foursquare. Additionally, the Rouhani government fails to protect freedoms and create opportunities online as the country's hardline judiciary and Revolutionary Guards continue their arrests, targeted campaigns of hackings, and prosecution of Iranian Internet users.

Our recommendations

The Minister's statements on his desire to unfilter Twitter and keep Telegram and Instagram from censorship are clearly at odds with his efforts to reconcile the desires of the nation's hardline elements, especially the judiciary. The Rouhani administration faces a number of challenges if it is to keep its promise to protect Internet freedoms and encourage innovation. ARTICLE 19 recommends as follows:

For the Ministry of ICT

Cease policies that encourage the nationalisation of content and platforms for the purposes of controlling information ows;

Cease the ICT Ministry's practice of giving discounts to those using local social media, in breach of the net neutrality principle;

Engage with the judiciary to end its restrictive approach to freedom of expression in Iran, especially in relation to its adverse treatment of Telegram channels and their administrators;

Ensure transparent documentation of ltering decisions such as the recent blocks on Swarm and Foursquare, and clarify the processes behind the CCDOC implementation of unfiltering;

To document the communications and negotiations with technology companies Telegram and Facebook (for Instagram). For the Supreme Council of Cyberspace:

Withdraw the social media regulations;

Cease existing censorship and threats to further censor platforms;

Stop encouraging the use of local platforms and instead encourage local development of technology without intimidation or violations of international standards such as net neutrality and freedom of expression.

For the judiciary

 Immediately and unconditionally release the Telegram channel administrators arrested for running pro-Rouhani Telegram channels;

 Immediately release and stop the persecution of Telegram users and administrators for sharing content related to homosexuality;

 Recognise the right of Telegram channels and other bodies and individuals to express ideas and information without restraint;

 Bring international human rights standards in Iranian law and its implementation.

For the press and media

 Reject the government's preferential treatment for media organisations through the provision of unrestricted access to the Internet;

 Work instead with marginalised groups to ensure equal access for all persons in Iran.

For Iran's telecommunication industry:

 Decline to cooperate with the government in providing discounts to users who choose to use local social media platforms and receive local content, in violation of international standards on net neutrality.

For social media companies (particularly Telegram and Facebook)

 Consider new features and abilities for Telegram channel administrators to protect their of ine identities to prevent further prosecution from Iranian authorities;

 Documentation and transparency by companies such as Telegram and Instagram regarding the Iranian government's claims of communication and negotiations.

Copyright notice: Copyright ARTICLE 19Poland: TVN24 channel fined on incitement charges

Publisher Article 19 Publication Date 19 December 2017 Cite as Article 19, Poland: TVN24 channel fined on incitement charges, 19 December 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5a817d244.html [accessed 14 September 2021] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.

ARTICLE 19 submitted the following alert to the Council of Europe Platform to promote the protection of journalism and safety of journalists.

On 7 December 2017 the National Broadcasting Council of Poland issued a decision fining independent broadcaster TVN 1 479 000 PLN (352 000 EUR) for inciting hatred and threatening public safety in relation to material broadcast on the channel TVN24.

They allege that TVN24 news channel's coverage of protests that took place in front of the Polish Parliament on 16-18 December 2016, violated Article 18(1) and Article 18(3) of the 1992 Broadcasting Act.

These clauses state that Programmes or other broadcasts may not encourage actions contrary to law and Poland's raison d'Etat or propagate attitudes and beliefs contrary to the moral values and social interest. In particular, they may not include contents inciting to hatred or discriminating on grounds of race, disability, sex, religion or nationality and Programmes or other broadcasts may not encourage conduct prejudicial to health, safety or the natural environment.

The decision notes that it was issued after thorough monitoring of media coverage on six channels: TVN, TVN24, Polsat, Polsat News, TVP and TVP Info. The decision does not state or describe what content violated these clauses.

TVN is the most widely watched independent broadcaster, often critical of the current government. A number of media freedom and journalist organisations have raised concerns that the decision amounts to censorship and is a punishment for TVN`s critical coverage. The channel announced that it would appeal the regulator's decision.

Copyright notice: Copyright ARTICLE 19Hollywood, CA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/12/2018 --Hollywood Airbrush Tanning Academy continues to attract more and more international students looking to learn their highly rated spray tanning technique. The southern California based airbrush tanning training school recently welcomed Heidi Nagels, the first student from Belgium who went on to complete their online and hands-on airbrush tanning certification program. Founded in 2011, Hollywood Airbrush Tanning Academy has been instrumental in assisting hundreds of aspiring beauty professionals kick-start their career as certified spray tanning technicians. The academy's success story can be attributed to its highly charismatic founder and renowned spray tanning expert Simone Emmons.



Heidi is an experienced mobile massage therapist specializing in deep tissue and trigger point massage. She also serves clients in a beautiful Day Spa called Zenaya in Schilde, Belgium. Always focused on making her clients feel happy and look beautiful, Heidi had a burning desire to learn airbrush tanning and decided to fly to Hollywood.



"The energy is totally different than when I give massages. I can be more the other side of me. I love the creativity and also, it is less hard work than giving massages all day long," she says.



Having now completed her training program at the Hollywood Airbrush Tanning, Heidi's goal for the future is to offer more of spray tanning and less of massaging services. She now started a mobile airbrush tanning service and in the near future, she looks forward to having her own airbrush tanning salon.



Heidi covers the area in Antwerp, Antwerpse Kempen (Schilde-Turnhout) of Belgium and she can be found online through her website at www.la-airbrushtanning.be or by calling 0498 97.56.43.



With changing times, a high percentage of tanning enthusiasts have now turned away from the traditional practice of sun tanning. The modern concept of spray tanning has now emerged as the healthier alternative because it doesn't expose the skin to the harmful UV rays. Led by Simone Emmons, Hollywood Airbrush Tanning Academy has been actively involved in building mass awareness about spray tanning in America. No less than an airbrush tanning wizard, the academy's founder Simone Emmons is now focused on sharing her knowledge and skill to develop the spray tanning experts of the future.



Expressing pleasure about her training experience with Simone, Heidi said, "The best benefit of the training is absolutely the spray tanning technique and good solutions learnt from Simone. As the tanning stays longer, is not sticky and does not come off on your sheets or clothe. Also, everything she teaches you to set up your business is a total package; you will learn everything from A to Z."



About Hollywood Airbrush Tanning Academy

Hollywood Airbrush Tanning Academy is located in Los Angeles, California and offers an extensive hands-on Spray Tanning Certification program to individuals who want to start their own full or part-time airbrush tanning business. Founder and trainer, Simone Emmons is a professional spray tanning expert and teacher and has trained over 300 entrepreneurs from 27 states (and counting) including international students from Trinidad, South Korea, Kuwait, Philippines, Denmark and Canada. Simone's airbrush tanning business has won the "Best of Los Angeles Award 2015" for airbrush tanning in Los Angeles. The spray tanning training provided by the Hollywood Airbrush Tanning Academy is private and hands-on and prepares the student to start in business immediately. Prior to the hands-on training, over four hours of videos lessons are provided to students covering everything from safety and technique to marketing and Search engine optimization. Hollywood Airbrush Tanning Academy provides training and education on all equipment and spray tanning solutions in the sunless industry. The academy provides hands-on training classes in Los Angeles and Connecticut area as well as online airbrush tanning certification classes.



Visit HollywoodAirbrushTanningAcademy.com to sign up for the next spray tanning class or call Hollywood Airbrush Tanning Academy at 818-674-9621 for more information.A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.Interviewed by Kommersant, Sergey Ivanov, CEO of ALROSA said that the diamond mining company plans to sell some of its non-core assets.

One of these assets - iron ore project of MMC Timir, 51% of which is already owned by Evraz - is a set of license areas.

"I talked with Alexander Frolov (President of Evraz), he has absolutely agreed that it would be useless to do anything (with the project) in the next seven to eight years. Evraz bought some part of the project from us, but they are not interested in the remaining package," Ivanov said. It is likely that the investment in the asset will be written off, he added.

Meanwhile, ALROSA will retain such assets as the Alrosa Airline company, Alrosa-Lena shipping company and Vilyuiskaya HPP, but will try to increase their productivity and financial payback.

"Some of the internal structural units will be transferred to subsidiaries - not for the purpose of alienation, but for re-structuring of non-core activities in order to motivate them to try to make money in the market, and to ensure transparency," Ivanov said.

Finally, the building of Diamond World in Moscow, half owned by AROSA, may eventually be sold at an auction together with the Federal Property Management Agency.



Wabtec Corporation has signed a contract valued at about $62 million to implement its positive train control (PTC) technology along the Central Florida Rail Corridor (CFRC), the operator for the SunRail commuter line.

The contract will allow for Wabtec to provide its Interoperable Electronic Train Management System (I-ETMS) equipment for 24 locomotives and cab cars, a back-office server, wayside communications and signals, officials said, as well as a dispatch system, training and system integration.

The scope of our work on this project demonstrates the wide-ranging roles that Wabtec can play in the implementation of PTC for our customers, said Raymond T. Betler, Wabtecs president and CEO. We are continuing to invest worldwide in this important segment of our business.

The installation of Wabtecs PTC system is set to wrap up by late 2018.

Nicola Liquori, chief executive officer of SunRail, said safety is top priority for SunRail and the Florida Department of Transportation.

Positive train control will allow us to increase safety for our customers, crews and the traveling public in general, Liquori said.

SunRail operates more than 60 miles of track through central Florida, officials noted.

The CFRCs PTC system will be fully interoperable with the system being implemented by all Class 1 railroads, the company said.Maryland Transit Administration/Twitter

The Maryland Department of Transportation has determined the entire Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) rail system will remain closed for up to four weeks following an inspection.

MTA says the shutdown is to ensure the safety of all customers and will extend through March 11. Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan authorized $2.2 million in emergency funding to run supplemental bus bridges in addition to regular Baltimore Link bus services.

The weekend inspection of the entire system was conducted after routine inspections last week determined the elevated track from Owings Mills to West Cold Spring would be closed for several weeks to replace track in advance of the planned summer replacement project. MTA said it would evaluate partial reopening of the system as sections of the Metro SubwayLink are repaired.

Safety is our top priority, said MTA Administrator Kevin Quinn. With bus bridges, we will be able to do the necessary rail repairs to reopen our system as quickly as possible while still providing our customers with critical access to work, school, medical facilities and leisure activities.

On behalf of our citizens who rely daily on the Metro SubwayLink system for their transport needs, I want to express our gratitude to the Hogan Administration for this emergency funding we requested to provide dedicated buses that will travel the Metro SubwayLink route, said Baltimore Mayor Catherine E. Pugh. It is important that we do everything possible to mitigate the inconvenience of prolonged disruption of the Metro SubwayLink service.Heath Hall, the acting administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration, the nation's rail safety watchdog, resigned Feb. 11 amid allegations that he was working a second job as a public relations consultant.

Hall was appointed as Deputy Federal Railroad Administrator in June 2017, a post that did not require Senate confirmation.

His appointment came after confirmation of President Trumps pick for FRA Administrator, former Conrail executive Ron Batory, was held up by Democrats Chuck Schumer of New York and Corey Booker of New Jersey who were attempting to use it for leverage to release federal funding for the proposed Gateway rail tunnel project.

Hall was an acquaintance of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao from her time with the Deputy DOT Secretarys office and the Peace Corps.

Citing family issues, Hall had recently taken a leave of absence from FRA. But published reports said Hall subsequently appeared on at least two occasions in Mississippi media reports as a spokesman for the Madison County sheriff, where he has a public relations and political consulting firm.

Politico reported the firm continued to receive payments from the county for its services from July to December, despite Halls pledge in a federal ethics form that it would remain dormant while he worked at DOT.

We were unaware of the information that is being reported but those allegations, if they are true, are troubling, DOT spokeswoman Marianne McInerney said in a statement Saturday. Heath Hall has resigned his position at the Department effective immediately.

Even while Hall was serving as deputy administrator, he was without a background in railroad operations and safety, as his appointment was intended to increase expertise in administration of federal transportation grants, which is secondary to safety at FRA.

Batory has not been sidelined, however, as he has been working as an aide to Chao. In fact, it is likely Batory will have input when the FRAs new interim acting administrator, General Counsel Juan D. Reyes III, testifies on Positive Train Control (PTC) implementation on Feb. 15 before the House Rail Subcommittee.

There are three options to break the Schumer-Booker hold on Batorys confirmation and allowing him directly to run the FRA.

Trump could name Batory deputy administrator, as that post does not require Senate confirmation. Its less prestige and less money, but Batory would be in a position directly to run the agency while awaiting Senate confirmation.

The second option the so-called nuclear option, is cloture, which Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.)  Chaos spouse  can invoke, and did invoke in November 2017, to gain confirmation of Under Secretary for Transportation Policy Derek Kan. Kans confirmation similarly was blocked by Northeastern senators again looking for leverage to force DOT to release federal funds for Gateway.

Under Senate rules, cloture formally ends the Schumer-Booker hold. That process can require up to a week. While invoking cloture usually requires 60 votes  which Republicans do not have in the Senate  former Democratic Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada changed the cloture rule under certain circumstances to require just a majority (i.e., 51 votes).

Once cloture was invoked, Kan was confirmed by a 90-7 vote.

Invoking cloture may be a last resort not hastily used as it further aggravates an already-poisoned congressional political atmosphere.

But there is increasing concern that leaving the FRA without a qualified administrator is reducing the level of railroad safety and placing untold lives in jeopardy.

A third option is a recess appointment by the President. The remainder of February has congressional breaks, including Presidents Day. And since the second session of this Congress is under way, a recess appointment would extend through the end of the 2019 calendar year.

In addition to the recent surfeit of rail accidents, the turmoil surrounding PTC implementation and concern over maximum train lengths, there is a growing opioid crisis among transportation workers with safety responsibilities.

The Transportation Department said this past week that among transportation workers in all modes, positive drug tests have risen 77% since 2006.

 with reporting by Frank Wilner in WashingtonChina's banks lent a record amount of new yuan loans in January, data from the People's Bank of China showed Monday.

New yuan loans increased to CNY 2.9 trillion in January from about CNY 584 billion in December. Lending was expected to rise to CNY 2 trillion.

Similarly, total social financing came in at CNY 3.06 trillion versus CNY 1.14 trillion a month ago.

Broad money supply M2, grew 8.6 percent annually. The rate was expected to remain unchanged at 8.2 percent.

Julian Evans-Pritchard, an economist at Capital Economics, said China logs record lending at the start of almost every year. The more important story is that broader credit growth has fallen to a new multi-year low.

Policymakers have argued that the should hold up well this year despite slower credit creation. But the China Activity Proxy of Capital Economics suggests that growth has already started to suffer due to reduced policy support, the economist noted.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Economic News

What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.BitGrail, an Italian cryptocurrency exchange, announced that it has lost 17 million Nano coins (XRB) worth about $195 million, following internal checks that revealed unauthorized transactions in the wallet managed by it. However, developers behind the Nano token have raised doubt over the claim of a hack, alleging that it was a so-called "exit-scam".

The cryptocurrency exchange, which was once the popular venue for Nano tokens, noted the fraudulent activities are under police investigation. All activities, including withdrawals and deposits, will be temporarily suspended to conduct further verifications. Further, it added that the other currencies have not been involved.

Developers behind the Nano cryptocurrency, formerly known as RaiBlocks, have publicly stated that they have sufficient reason to believe that BitGrail founder Francesco Firano has been misleading the Nano Core Team and the community regarding the solvency of the exchange for a significant period of time.

The claim of hacking comes close on the heels of some suspicious moves made in recent times by BitGrail.

After the exchange put a halt to all withdrawals and deposits of Nano, Lisk, and Crytpoforecast tokens in January, it announced identity verification and anti-money laundering protocols and plans to block non-European users.

These steps were likely the prelude to an exit scam and caused the Nano coin price to drop 20 percent.

BitGrail is said to have mismanaged customer funds and is using the hacking story as a cover up for the mistakes. Firano even reportedly asked the Nano team to "fork" their records or to "modify the ledger in order to cover his losses".

Last month, Japanese crypto exchange Coincheck said it would return more than 46.3 billion yen or around $425 million worth of digital currency to owners, that was lost in a hacking attack. In one of the biggest-ever cryptocurrency thefts, around 260,000 of Coincheck's customers lost 523 mln NEM cryptocurrency coins or $530 million worth of digital money from its exchange.

Coincheck promised to give back investors 90 percent of their lost coins using its own funds. However, Firano claimed in a twitter post "there's no way to give it back to you at 100% (we only got 4 MLN XRN right now)."

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business NewsNew York state prosecutors have filed a lawsuit against disgraced American film producer Harvey Weinstein, his brother and the production firm the Weinstein Company (TWC), for failing to protect their employees from prolonged sexual misconduct despite multiple complaints from them.

New York Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman said he filed a civil rights lawsuit Sunday in anticipation of an imminent sale of the Weinstein Company, which could leave victims without adequate redress.

The legal action comes at a time businesswoman Maria Contreras-Sweet and Ron Burkle were finalizing a deal to take over TWC, which is now on the verge of bankruptcy.

There are reports that the deal has either collapsed or is on hold as a result of the lawsuit.

Several women have accused Weinstein of raping them, while sexual misconduct allegations emerged from Hollywood A-listers such as Angelina Jolie, Rose McGowan, Asia Argento, Rosanna Arquette, Cara Delevingne and Gwyneth Paltrow, all who have worked with him.

The Company that Weinstein co-founded fired him following the allegations.

NYPD and London Police are investigating some of the claims against the movie mogul, who has reportedly been at a rehabilitation center in Arizona.

The lawsuit alleges that the film production company's board failed to take adequate steps to protect its staff despite complaints that Weinstein abused female employees, and made verbal threats to kill them.

The lawsuit, filed in the State Supreme Court in New York, included new allegations about Weinstein's "vicious and exploitative mistreatment" of employees.

The lawsuit set a condition that adequate compensation for the victims, and protection for employees should be ensured before any sale of the Weinstein Company takes place.

Responding to the lawsuit, TWC board of directors said many of the allegations relating to the Board are inaccuratey. "With respect to the Company's ongoing sale process, the Board sought a transaction to preserve jobs and create a victim fund," the Board said in a statement to Deadline.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Political NewsConsumer goods giant Unilever has warned to withdraw its advertising from online platforms like Facebook and Google because of most of the media firms are not taking enough actions to control extremists, racists and illegal contents.

"We cannot have an environment where our consumers don't trust what they see online," said Unilever's Chief Marketing Officer Keith Weed.

"We cannot continue to prop up a digital supply chain ... which at times is little better than a swamp in terms of its transparency," Weed said.

Weed said Unilever can not continue to support an online advertising industry where extremist material, fake news, child exploitation, political manipulation, racism and sexism are thriving.

"It is acutely clear from the groundswell of consumer voices over recent months that people are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of digital on wellbeing, on democracy - and on truth itself," Weed said.

Weed urged the digital media companies to act before "advertisers stop advertising".

The London-based company is one of the top spenders in the advertising , with 7.7 billion euros spent last year for advertising its brands.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business NewsReport: 9 civilians killed in 44 Saudi airstrikes over Sunday [12/February/2018]



SANAA, Feb. 12 (Saba)  Nine civilians, including five women, were killed when the US-backed Saudi-led aggression coalition launched 44 air strikes on Yemen provinces over the past 24 hours, officials and medics told Saba News Agency on Monday.



In Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, nine members of a family, including five women, were killed in two airstrikes hit the family's home in Shargah area of Jurrahi district.



Also in Hodiedah, two air strikes hit two Fisheries stores in Luhaiah district.



In Saada province, the warplanes launched four strikes on Taibt-Asm and Farea area of Kutaf district, two on Aal-Qerad area of Baqem district, and one air strike on Takhiah area of Majaz district.



Also in Saada, the aggression fighter jets waged two raids on Azhur area of Razeh border district and one on the dawn of Maran mountain.



Meanwhile, artillery and missile force of Saudi aggression shelled several areas of Razeh district, Maran and Riqa areas of Haidan district, Ghur area of Ghamer border district and also targeted several areas of Munabeh district, damaging civilians properties.



In Marib province, four air strikes were waged on Serwah district.



In the capital Sanaa, the aggression warplane launched a strike on Dailami base.



In Hajjah province, 20 airstrikes were targeted Haradh and Medi districts.



In Jizan border province, the US-backed Saudi aggression coalition waged five strikes on Talaa site.



Writing by Sameera al-Mahdi, Editing by Zak

SabaReport: Dozens of enemy soldiers, mercenaries killed in military operations on Sunday [12/February/2018]



SANAA, Feb. 12 (Saba)  Dozens of Saudi soldiers and mercenaries were killed and injured when the army and popular forces carried out military operations including artillery, missiles and snipping attacks in front lines over the past 24 hours, according to military reports combined by Saba on Monday.



Saudi aggression media admitted the killing of five of its soldiers in clashes with the army and popular forces in border fronts line.



In Najran border province, artillery shelling targeted gatherings and fortifications of Saudi soldiers in Selh censorship, and sites of Shurfa, shabaka, big and small Makhroq, killing and wounding dozens.



Also in Najran, Saudi-paid mercenaries' gatherings were targeted by artillery in front of Aleeb mountains and Boqea desert.



In front of Khadhra crossing of Najran, military vehicle, loaded with mercenaries, was destroyed, killing all its crew.



In the border province of Jizan, gatherings and fortifications of Saudi soldiers were targeted by artillery in Dukhan mountain, Qarn site, Ararah site, northern Hamidhah village and behaind Hamidhah.



Katyusha rockets were fired toward gatherings of Saudi soldiers in Mukhail camp in Aridha district and Muaten camp of Jizan.



Furthermore, two Saudi soldiers were sniped in Khazan hill.



In Marib province, six Saudi-paid mercenaries were shot dead in Serwah front, while five mercenaries were killed and wounded by fires of the army and committees at the same front.



Also in Marib, gatherings of mercenaries were shelled by artillery in Kawfel camp.



In Bayda province, five mercenaries were killed and other four injured when the US warplanes bombed their sites in Atef area of Qurashiah district.



In Thi-Naem front of Byada, dozens of mercenaries were killed and wounded by an explosive device in Shabakt-Sabah, while in Nufan-Qaifa front, an offensive operation was carried out upon mercenaries' sites in Alam hill, killing and wounding dozens.



In Hajjah province, Artillery force of the army and popular committees targeted gatherings of Saudi-paid mercenaries in the north of Medi desert.





Writing by Sameera al-Mahdi, Editing Zak



SabaThe youths of Samoa who are eligible to cast a vote have been told to make their voices heard during the upcoming General Elections.

The message was loud and clear at the E.F.K.S Hall where the Samoa Ala Mai Advocacy Group staged a rally to encourage young people to vote.

The rally featured American Samoa Congresswoman, Amata Aumua Coleman and caretaker Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, as guest speakers.

Pastor Lenny Solomona set the tone for the meeting.

Every vote counts and your voices do matter in the decision making of Samoa, he said. Speak up by voting for the right people.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa couldn't agree more.

You are the future of Samoa. Therefore, this is the right time to start shaping you up to be great leaders, he said.

Every citizen of this country is entitled to vote and they all have the right to vote. Vote for your future and vote for your benefit. Your vote counts and your vote is the same as anybody elses in this country.

Speaking from a candidates perspective, Congresswoman Amata recalled her struggles to win the position she currently occupies.

I started contesting for the election when I was young, she said. And I did not win the first time I tried, as a matter of fact, I am a professor of falling and standing up again.

Ive tried for so many years to get to where I am now.

Her journey wasnt easy, she said.

People looked down on her and judged her for always failing, but that did not deter her.

If you fall down, get back on your feet, dust it off and keep fighting again. Never lose hope because dreams do come true.

The message was embraced by the young people who attended the meeting.

Tapaau Tauiliili from Ululoloa said she was excited.

This is my first time voting, she said.

I never thought that voting was such a big deal until today.

Tapaau said she learnt a lot from the programme and she was happy to have the chance to stand next to the Prime Minister and the American Samoa Congresswoman.

For Faitoto Tuia, she said she was inspired by the speakers.

The good thing about this programme is that everyone gets to go home with something useful, she said.

The Prime Minister said in his speech that variety is the spice of life and after listening to all the variety of messages from all the influential speakers today, I think we are now ready more than ever to give our vote for the people whom we think should lead.A hotelier and a prominent businessman has issued a warning to the government in the wake of the deadly fuel tank fire at the Matautu wharf on Monday.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, owner of Millenia Hotel, Tuala Oli Ah Him, said he keeps having nightmares about what could have happened.

Im not an expert on these fuel storage facilities, he said.

But what happened is an eye opener for our government and for everybody to look at what happened and how they can improve from it.

We also need to upgrade our response to this sort of disaster in terms of possible oil leakage to the ocean and to the waterfront which will damage the reef from these villages to Leulumoega.

Located at Sogi, Tualas hotel is not far from the oil tanks and Petroleum Products Supplies headquarters at Sogi.

According to him, the government needs to come up with a better plan in terms of extracting the oil from Matautu and where they should store it.

He reminded that there are a number of hotels and restaurants located just outside the Matautu wharf. From there a line of the main and bigger hotels in town stand in front of the waterfront starting from Aggie Greys, Tanoa Tusitala, Amanaki, Hotel Elisa and let alone Millenia hotel.

Its a real worry, he said.

You see, what happened on Monday was a big concern for the business community, especially the businesses on the waterfront.

From Hotel Millenias view, Tuala said Sogi is another area that should be looked at.

There are about six storage tanks similar with the tank that blew up (in this area), he said.

It is a great concern that what happened on Monday actually happened because we are under the impression that safety is the utmost priority.

These things should not just blow up.

According to the businessman, had the wharf blown up, it could have spelt an economic disaster for Samoa. It could have crippled the businesses and the countrys economy. And thats not to mention the safety aspect.

This is why Tuala wants the authorities to take what happened seriously, with the view of making changes to avoid a repeat.

Tuala understands that the government is under resourced and are faced with other constraints but he believes this is an important issue that should be prioritised.

He acknowledged the hard work of firefighters that battled the fire and expressed his condolences to the man that died as a result of the explosion.

During a press conference on Tuesday, P.P.S Managing Director, Fanene Samau Sefo said there was no threat to members of the public from the explosion.

The tanks were designed in a way that it cannot be destroyed by a fire, said Fanene.

I believe the evacuation was called for precautionary measures but with the fire alone, there wouldnt have been a time when it would spread outside of the tank. The tanks are surrounded by a cement wall so if there is any fuel leakage it is contained inside the bund wall.

The explosion killed a worker of P.P.S.DESTIN, Florida (AP)  When Polly Varnado's 9-year-old daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, it didn't take long for the family to hear about insulin pumps.

In September 2012, the girl picked out a purple one  her favorite color.

Over the next seven months, she proceeded to be hospitalized four times in a McComb, Mississippi medical center with high blood sugar. But when Varnado asked about all her daughter's problems, she said, her doctor blamed user error.

"They said it wasn't the insulin pump, it was my daughter," said Varnado, who became a registered nurse so that she could better care for the girl.

When it comes to medical devices, none have had more reported problems over the last decade than insulin pumps, a product that's used by hundreds of thousands of diabetics around the world, many of them children.

Collectively, insulin pumps and their components are responsible for the highest overall number of malfunction, injury and death reports in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's medical device database, according to an Associated Press analysis of reports since 2008.

In terms of injuries alone, insulin pumps were second only to metal hip replacements, whose problems with metal shavings in the body causing damage to bone and tissue and other issues, have been well-documented and widely reported.

By contrast, problems with insulin pumps largely have flown under the radar.

Medical device companies and many experts say insulin pumps are safe devices that can help diabetics lead more normal lives. They blame user error for most reported problems, noting that the pumps are complicated devices requiring special training for patients.

The FDA notes that "diabetes is a dangerous disease, and people with diabetes who rely on insulin are at higher risk." The agency said it "has played a critical role helping to identify and address safety concerns for devices ... including pushing manufacturers to improve the safety of their designs."

Over the last decade, insulin pumps and pump parts made by Medtronic Inc. were subject to 20 manufacturer recalls and about 100 lawsuits alleging pump malfunctions, according to a joint investigation by the AP and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.

In a statement, Medtronic said it monitors the safety of its products through clinical trials and observational studies, and that "data supports both the safety and efficacy of our insulin pumps, which have helped hundreds of thousands of patients manage their diabetes."

The company declined to answer more specific questions.

Varnado said she was unaware of problems with insulin pumps before receiving a notice in July 2013 that Medtronic was recalling some batches of parts for the model her daughter had used.

She reached a confidential settlement with the company in March 2017 after filing a federal lawsuit contending the device failed to properly deliver enough insulin. She remains convinced that the device harmed her child.

"Once she got off the pump, she never went back to the hospital," Varnado said.

Dr. Ben Wheeler, a leading pediatric diabetes researcher in Australia, told the AP that the use of insulin pumps "appears safe" and is "potentially safer" than insulin injections, the traditional method of treatment.

Still, a 2015 study he co-authored found that 40 percent of insulin pump users experienced problems, "with a minority, particularly in children, requiring hospital management."

The study also said "it is noteworthy that overall pump failure rates do not appear to be improving with technological advances."

___

Diabetes results when the pancreas fails to make enough insulin or the body can't respond normally to the insulin that is produced. Insulin is essential in regulating blood glucose, which is produced by food and is the main source of energy for the body's cells.

Insulin pumps are small, computerized devices that mimic a normal pancreas, and have two main components  the pump and the infusion set. In addition to maintaining the device, users also must monitor their diets and manually input information, such as the rate of insulin delivery.

Companies aggressively market the device to adults and children. For instance, Medtronic  which makes most of the pumps in use today  has a company mascot, "Lenny the Lion," for its estimated 250,000 children users.

But experts say not everyone is a good candidate for the device and that potential users should be carefully screened to ensure they're suitable.

"There is a sharp learning curve," said Dr. Desmond Schatz, medical director of the University of Florida's Diabetes Institute. "You've got to understand the pump. You've got to understand how it works.... You've got to understand how to change it. You have to understand settings."

The FDA's data offers no explanation for why the devices have so many adverse events. Many of the reports filed by doctors, manufacturers and patients lack critical information  a reporting failure the FDA acknowledges across all devices.

For example, medical device companies and health care providers are supposed to file an adverse event report whenever a device is suspected of malfunctioning or contributing to an injury or death. The report should include a device problem code and describe what happened, which can help pinpoint problems with a particular device.But an AP analysis of the FDA data found that Medtronic did not include a device problem code on virtually any of its more than 150,000 reports of deaths or injuries related to insulin pumps since 2008. The FDA said device makers should include a problem code, but don't have to if the information is unknown.

The company cited a specific problem in only 2 percent of the cases  most often "Device Displays Incorrect Message."

In addition, the AP found that Medtronic offered "no conclusion can be drawn at this time" as the cause in more than 80 percent of the reports. The second most common phrase: "Currently it is unknown whether or not the device may have caused or contributed to the event as no product has been returned."

Matt Harman, an Atlanta-based attorney who has filed numerous lawsuits involving medical devices, including insulin pumps,, said users also aren't told that data can be lost if batteries are removed from some pump models.

"I can't tell you how many times we've gotten a call from a distraught, devastated family member who had a loved one who passed away under suspicious circumstances," he said. "But when we try to find out what happened, we can't if we don't have the data."

The FDA said it was aware of that problem in older insulin pumps and has encouraged manufacturers to develop devices with memories that won't be erased when power is lost or have the capability to send data to a secure server for storage.

___

The FDA notes that the number of pump recalls has decreased over the last five years  from about eight annually over the previous 10 years to an average of three per year  which it credits to a 2010 initiative aimed at ramping up requirements for manufacturers and increasing user awareness.

But 2013's recalls included one on the most serious level concerning the Medtronic MiniMed Paradigm insulin infusion set, with the FDA noting that "under certain conditions, the infusion set may malfunction and deliver an incorrect volume of insulin."

Lawsuits related to insulin pumps often blame malfunctions for causing injuries or deaths.

One filed in February in federal court in Mississippi alleges that Debbie Davis, a 56-year-old bank loan officer, died two months after an insulin pump "delivered up to a week's worth of insulin at one time."

Her husband, Mike Davis, told the AP that his wife had been diabetic for about 10 years and easily managed her disease with injections, but decided to try a pump in 2016 after hearing how it could help.

One morning in January 2017, David said, he couldn't wake his wife after she had filled her insulin pump and gone to bed. She lingered in a coma for two months.

Seven months later, Davis said he received a Medtronic recall notice warning of the "potential over-delivery of insulin." ''I just knew right then it was what did it," he said.

In court records in the ongoing litigation, Medtronic denied the "devices malfunctioned, or that they were defective in any way."Tuilaepa Dr. Sailele Malielegaoi

Prime Minister of Samoa

Chairman of Pacific Islands Forum

Address at Pacific Community Leaders-France Dialogue

I would like to acknowledge with appreciation this opportunity provided for Heads of State and Government of the Pacific to meet with you to discuss the issues considered of high priority for the Pacific region.

I note that the focus during the afternoon session with your Foreign Minister was on issues related to climate change, biodiversity and the Ocean, as they affect our region.

Leaders at its 48th session of the Forum Leaders meeting, endorsed The Blue Pacific identity as the core driver of collective action for advancing the Leaders vision under the Framework for Pacific Regionalism. Through this endorsement, Leaders recognised The Blue Pacific as a new narrative that calls for inspired leadership and a long-term Forum foreign policy commitment to act as one Blue Continent.

In considering the shifts in the global and regional contexts, Leaders also recognised the opportunity of The Blue Pacific identity to reinforce the potential of our shared stewardship of the Pacific Ocean and reaffirm the connections of Pacific peoples with their natural resources, environment, culture and livelihoods. It aims to harness our shared ocean identity, geography and resources to drive positive socio-cultural, political and economic development. Therefore securing the wellbeing and potential of the Blue Pacific is at the centre of the Forum agenda.

Leaders further recognised The Blue Pacific as being about all Pacific peoples comprising our ocean of islands, who recognise their needs and potential, who plan and own their development agenda, and who can act collectively for the good of all, rather than a few. The Blue Pacific is the catalyst for deeper Pacific regionalism.

Pacific leaders are committed to maintaining a strong and collective voice and action on issues vital to our Blue Pacific continent such as we have done for current ocean governance arrangements, establishing a ban on driftnet fishing, lobbying for a stand alone SDG Goal 14 on Oceans and reaching global consensus for the Paris Agreement.

In 2015, the Pacific Island Countries were instrumental in concluding one of the toughest ever global negotiations for the Paris Agreement. Collectively and in the spirit of the Blue Pacific identity, the Pacific Leaders and their delegations doggedly pursued our regions priorities until we were able to make the world see climate change through our eyes, as the most vulnerable communities to climate change impacts.

Reflecting the regions commitment to the Paris Agreement, Pacific Islands Forum Leaders in 2016 endorsed the Framework for Resilient Development in the Pacific(FRDP). It is a global first where the Pacific region seeks to prevent and reduce its exposure to risk from climate change and natural hazards risk; achieve low carbon development; and, improve disaster preparedness, response, recovery and reconstruction. The FRDP outlines an implementation framework with a coordination mechanism; the Pacific Resilience Partnership.

In June 2017, the Pacific Leaders again rallied to support and influence the outcomes of the inaugural United Nations Oceans Conference, which was co-chaired by Fiji and Sweden.

Similarly, Leaders also committed their support to Fijis Presidency of the 23rd Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC, held in November in Bonn, Germany. A key focus was on the close links between Ocean and Climate and the need for Oceans to become an integral part of the continuing climate change agenda. Pacific Leaders thence, launched the Oceans Pathway at COP 23 that seeks to address and strengthen actions related to the oceanclimate nexus.

It is also important for Small Island Developing States to be able to address loss and damage associated with the adverse impacts of climate change, that is, comprehensive risk management; approaches to address slow onset events; and approaches to recovery, rehabilitation and addressing permanent loss. Climate finance in whatever form means investment in our collective future.

The Ministers of Finance of the Pacific Islands Forum met recently to discuss a Financial Facility to address resilience in our region and how we prepare ourselves for climatic impact, as we cannot wait for help after the fact of a cyclone tsunami or floods. The Donor Roundtable that followed discussed how they can support a well prepared Pacific. In this regard we would invite the Government of France to consider this proposal from our region.

Mr President, the examples as highlighted reflect the value the Forum has placed on the international rules based order for protecting and promoting the development and security of the Pacific Ocean and the importance of collective action, a collective voice in pursuing our issues.

Mr President, the collective positioning under the Blue Pacific identity is an approach that we would also encourage for the ACP Group for the post Cotonou negotiations because, numbers aside from common interests strengthens solidarity and ensures the ACP Group is fit for purpose. It is also our request that that in the course of negotiations let us focus on non partisan and interventionist approaches on global goods.

Building on the strengths of collective collaboration of the Blue Pacific identity that we have embraced will ensure that our smallness will have an expanded outreach, and our collective voice will soar above the roar of the angry tides. The recognition of our earth without borders resonates with the need for a global outlook, international cooperation and solidarity, and a shared strategy, to address the challenges we face.SYDNEY (AP)  The Melbourne Storm ended a dominating season with an almost routine 34-6 win over the North Queensland Cowboys in the National Rugby League grand final on Sunday.

The Storm, who finished in first place during the regular season, led 18-0 at halftime. The Cowboys had qualified for the playoffs from the eighth and final playoff spot, and had won three matches in the finals, but were clearly outclassed by the Storm on Sunday.

The title match was played before 79,722 spectators at Sydney's Olympic stadium.

Overwhelming favorites before the match, the Storm wore the Cowboys down for 20 minutes before Josh Addo-Carr broke through for the first try of the match. From there, the Storm never looked like losing. Felise Kaufusi and Billy Slater took the score to 18-0 after 40 minutes. Dale Finucane, Curtis Scott and Addo-Carr scored second-half tries for the Storm.

Slater won the Clive Churchill medal as the best player in the final.

"To be as consistent as we were all year, it was a great performance, and one that we've been doing all year, so we were very confident we could do it," Slater said.

North Queensland halfback Michael Morgan said he was embarrassed.

"It feels like a waste of a season to be honest," Morgan said. "That scoreline doesn't reflect the effort we put in this year."

Melbourne star halfback Cooper Cronk is expected to retire or move to a Sydney club next season.

"I'll celebrate this, wake up with a hangover in a couple of days, and then I'll have a think about it," Cronk said. "It's really hard to give up moments like this. You work extremely hard for it."

The Cowboys, at the end of an injury-hit season that included losing captains Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott, suffered another blow in the final, losing prop Shaun Fensom to a broken leg in the third minute.NEW YORK (AP)  McDonald's has temporarily flipped its famous Golden Arches to look like a "W''  a move it says it made to recognize International Women's Day.

The upside-down logo appeared Thursday on the fast-food giant's website and social media accounts. It also flipped the arches at one restaurant in Lynwood, California. McDonald's says that at about 100 of its 14,000 restaurants, packaging and worker uniforms will have the flipped logo.

McDonald's also says six out of 10 of its restaurant managers are women and it wanted to honor their accomplishments.

The company, based in Oak Brook, Illinois, says it's the first time it has flipped its Golden Arches logo since it first appeared at a restaurant six decades ago.NEW YORK (AP)  Talk about a paleo diet. Scientists have uncovered the last meal of a frozen hunter who died 5,300 years ago in the Alps.

The stomach contents of the corpse, widely known as Oetzi the Iceman, offer a snapshot of what ancient Europeans ate more than five millennia ago, researchers said.

On the menu, described Thursday in the journal Current Biology, were the fat and meat of a wild goat, meat of a red deer and whole wheat seeds, which Oetzi ate shortly before his death.

Traces of fern leaves and spores were also discovered in Oetzi's stomach. Scientists think he may have swallowed the plant unintentionally or as a medicine for parasites previously found in his gut.

"It was very impressive," said lead author Frank Maixner, a microbiologist at the Institute for Mummy Studies in Bolzano, Italy. "We could see chunks and pieces of food with (the) naked eye."

Though the researchers had previously examined Oetzi's intestines, this was the first time they could look into his stomach.

The reason is nothing short of grotesque.

Following Oetzi's death, the organ moved upwards. It was not until 2009, 18 years after his remains were discovered near the Italy-Austria border, that a radiologist detected it behind the rib cage. And it was full. After slowly defrosting the body, the team took samples and rehydrated them.

Nearly half the stomach contents were identified as the body fat of an ibex, a wild goat that still lives in the Alps. That's a lot of fat. But scientists think the finding makes sense.

"It's a harsh environment," said Maixner, who has climbed to the cold and windy site where Oetzi was found. "They had to be prepared. They had to have food that gave them the necessary energy (to survive)."

Albina Hulda Palsdottir, an archaeozoologist from the University of Oslo, believes the findings are very valuable.

"They're trying to use all the methods in the toolbox to answer this really important question of what people were really eating" back then, she said.

Now, Maixner and his team are hoping to reconstruct the composition of bacteria and other microorganisms that lived in the Iceman's gut, and see how it differs from what modern people show.

"Oetzi is always interesting," Hulda Palsdottir said. "He's already told us so much."Just two hours into the New Year, a baby boy was born at 3.9 grammes to Lisa Ioasa, of Mulifanua.

Senior Nurse Specialist at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital Motootua, Robyn Roache, said the baby was born healthy, and has been discharged with his mother and their family.

Since baby Ioasas birth, the hospital has welcomed 15 babies: six boys and nine girls, including a pair of twins.

By noon on the 2nd, seven babies had been born, with several more women waiting to deliver their babies still.

One of those babies, yet to be named is the son of Crystall Apete.

She held her day old baby close as they posed for a photo.

Crystalls mother, Elsie Apete said they arrived in the hospital yesterday afternoon, and the labour lasted till midnight, when the baby was born.The sentencing of Stewart Webber and Andrea Ah Chong has been adjourned.

The decision was made by Justice Mata Tuatagaloa on Wednesday.

Lawyer Ofisa Toailoa appeared for the Prosecution while Alalatoa Rosella Papalii represented the accused.

The couple was arrested on 30 July 2015 when police raided their residence at Afiamalu and discovered methamphetamine, guns and close to $25,000 cash.

The couple pleaded not guilty to all the charges against them when the matter was first mentioned.

According to the summary of facts, however, Webber and Ah Chong later changed their pleas from not guilty to guilty.

Webber pleaded guilty to four charges against him, one count of possession of 16 marijuana branches, possession of marijuana seeds, possession of methamphetamine and possession of utensils.

Ah Chong faced two charges of possession of 16 marijuana branches and possession of marijuana seeds.

Both accused accepted the summary of facts by the Prosecution.

In Court on Wednesday, Justice Tuatagaloa disagreed with submissions filed by both counsels about possible sentences.

For example, Justice Tuatagaloa asked the prosecution whether their starting point of nine years is for the charge of meth or all four charges.

If you think that a non-custodial penalty is appropriate for Ms. Ah Chong say it, said Justice Tuatagaloa.

She also did not accept the defence counsels submission that Webber be referred to the Drugs and Alcohol Court.

Justice Tuatagaloa adjourned the matter to 18 March 2016 for sentence and for the Probation Office to file a supplementary submission to clarify their position on their starting points for custodial sentences.

She reminded that the maximum sentence for meth is life imprisonment while marijuana is 14 years. Possession of utensils is up to seven years imprisonment.Its no secret that California law, as of Jan. 1, now permits the legal possession, use and sale of small amounts of cannabis, otherwise known as marijuana.

Thats the law, not only in the Golden State but in a fast-growing number of other states. At last count, nearly 30 states and the District of Columbia have at least partially legalized the drug. But because jurisdictional laws have an annoying way of contradicting themselves, thats not the federal law.

Not at all.

Last month, in a highly publicized move, U.S. attorney general Jeff Sessions reiterated his firm stance against any form of marijuana decriminalization, thus reversing a policy of the Obama era. More precisely, he explicitly gave federal prosecutors more freedom to enforce still-existing federal laws against the drug  including (and especially) those states where it is now legal, including California.

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The Sessions memo read in part: It is the mission of the Department of Justice to enforce the laws of the United States, and the previous issuance of guidance undermines the rule of law.

He then cited Congress determination that marijuana is a dangerous drug and that marijuana activity is a serious crime.

Fact is, by federal law, marijuana is currently classified as Schedule I substance, the designation for drugs with the greatest potential for abuse  and with no medicinal value. That list includes heroin, ecstasy and LSD, with cocaine and methamphetamine ranked a level lower than marijuana, as Schedule II.

Reasonable people can disagree on this issue, Im sure, though according to recent national polls nearly 75 percent of the general public believe that the federal government should not prosecute the drugs sale or use in those states where it is now legal.

That aside, heres the question: In light of this contradiction, whats an employer and employee to do?

At Manpower, we opted to inform our employees of our position by sending out an internal memo, which reads in part:

Manpowers drug-free workplace policy expressly prohibits the use, possession, solicitation for or sale of narcotics or other illegal drugs, alcohol, or prescription medication without a prescription on company or customer premises or while performing an assignment.

Although it is legal to drink alcohol, it is against Manpowers policy to show up inebriated at the work site. The same is true of marijuana, now that its recreational use is legal under California law.

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Be aware, however, that unlike alcohol that can be out of your system in hours, marijuana stays in your system for 30-45 days. During this period, you would fail a drug test and be in violation of Manpowers Drug Free Workplace policy.

The memos bottom line:

Being impaired by or under the influence of legal or illegal drugs or alcohol, even off the company premises, if it adversely affects a Manpower employees work performance, his or her own or others safety at the workplace, or the employers reputation, will not be tolerated and will be grounds for dismissal.

So is pretending the federal law doesnt exist worth the risk? Not at Manpower. Nor, I would guess, not at very many businesses of any size that respect (or fear) the law  even if they personally disagree with the laws intent.

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For employers, heres my advice: Make sure your employees know your position. While your personal beliefs may be strongly held, theyre not relevant unless you chose to flout the law. Know this: The consequences of breaking that law could severely impact your business.

Though ignorance is hardly an acceptable excuse, the more your employees know about your workplace policies, the better. Be diligent about keeping them well-informed, especially about serious issues such this one that have the potential to cause confusion, ill feelings, and worse.

Employment law varies among states, but in most cases companies with a zero-tolerance drug policy can legally fire or refuse to hire employees who fail a marijuana drug test, whether they have medical authorization or not.

Best to check with your HR department.

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While this issue carries inherent generational conflict, there shouldnt be any dispute when it comes to preventing the risks and dangers of on-the-job impairment. Dont let that happen on your watch. And dont let anyone tell you otherwise.

For employees, think twice about putting your job  perhaps your career  in jeopardy simply because you disagree with laws that may or may not be strictly enforced.

Until further notice, thats still the law of the land.

Twitter: @PhilManpowerSD

AdvertisementMy daughter is getting married this June. Wednesday is Valentines Day. Love is in the air. And the question  is that a good thing?

There is something called The Journal of Happiness Studies which is devoted to a scientific understanding of subjective well-being. Recently they did a study that hoped to solve the eternal question  Is marriages effect on happiness short-lived? And does marriage cause happiness, or is it that happy people are more likely to get and stay married in the first place?

The study was done in England, 30,000 people over 18 years, and they studied the time before marriage as well as after. In other words, if you were really just a curmudgeon, then marriage might have no effect on you. And finally they tried to allow for the stiff upper lip of the respondents. It seems that happy is as happy does, and that a good marriage is a good thing. Duh. (The trick seems to be in the definition of a good marriage.) And the marriage effect on happiness has a long tail distribution, it lasts a while.

However, by contrast, there is a suggestion that in America a miserable marriage and the ensuing divorce has about the same lasting effect as a latte. We are a bit more cavalier it seems in the matter of toughing it out and learning how to be happy, often in spite of ourselves. Obviously, different cultures view marriage from multiple perspectives.

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In the final analysis, it turns out that happiness is U-shaped, meaning that it normally rises when we are young, drops during middle age when lifes existential questions rise to the fore (that is code for children, money, job and aging parents), and then in our golden years it rises with equilibrium and acceptance. This augurs well for your romantic dinner; just dont try to look too far into the future. Stay at the top of the U on Wednesday.

In addition, the study seems to affirm that getting married (in theory to someone you love) is a good thing. Married people were 10 percent more satisfied than people who were single. But while cohabiting couples were happier than single people, they were only 75 percent as happy as married couples. Seems like the rings the thing, and that a legal document trumps just living together.

The study then reports the obvious. If you are in a miserable marriage, you are probably not happy. (There is a bit of circular logic here, but after all, the study was done in Britain). If you named your spouse as your best friend, you were twice as happy as those who didnt.

Now, let me complicate the puzzle a bit. A recent Harvard study has come out that says only 25 percent of employees feel a connection to their companys mission  which means that 75 percent are not really there for you baby at work. They are somewhere between disgruntled, unhappy or just plain miserable. My idea is now to do a study and correlate how many of those unhappy employees are happily married  or in the alternative are about to get divorced. And if they get divorced, will they then quit the toxic workplace they are stuck in, and go off with their new love and a new company to find true happiness?

My daughter, the one getting married, is not particularly happy at her job. So the question one might pose: Do you think getting married will have a positive effect at work, (and that your boss will suddenly become responsive and supportive)? It turns out from other studies that the answer is no. So I think she just needs to get another job.

As a point of history, our good Saint Valentine of Rome was imprisoned for performing weddings for soldiers forbidden to marry. And to top it off, the saint was executed, and in the final note to his jailers daughter he signed off with the farewell, your Valentine. And then they cut off his head. You might consider bringing this up to your date right before you order the dessert.

Wow. Execution or divorce, pick your poison. Me, Im staying married. Im happy, its just that my bride doesnt know it.

Rule No. 548: I do.

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Source: From Neil Senturias book Im There for You, Baby: The Entrepreneurs Guide to the Galaxy, which has more than 200 rules for entrepreneurs (imthereforyoubaby.com).Thinking about getting an electric car or plug-in hybrid? Theres now an extra little incentive for customers in San Diego County.

The states Clean Vehicle Rebate Project has launched a pilot program that allows drivers to get their rebates up front and apply the money at the point of sale.

Heres how it works:

If you buy or lease a car that qualifies under the states definition of a zero-emisison vehicle (ZEV), you are eligible to receive a rebate check from the state  the amount varies depending on the type of vehicle.

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Under the pilot program, you can get pre-approved for a rebate ahead of time and apply the amount immediately from a participating car dealer.

So instead of waiting for the state to send you the rebate after the sale, the rebate is applied at the same time you purchase or lease the vehicle.

For those who already know what they want  they can get the vehicle, apply the rebate at the point of sale, reduce the amount of financing and theyre off down the road, said Chad Taylor, assistant director of clean transportation at the Center for Sustainable Energy, (CSE), the San Diego nonprofit that administers the states rebate program.

Called Rebate Now, the pilot program will be tested in San Diego County and if its successful, will be applied statewide.

Taylor said San Diego County was chosen because the metropolitan area has traditionally been accepting of clean technology and offers a good mix of economically diverse neighborhoods. In addition, since CSE is located in San Diego, the organization will have easy access to check on the pilot programs progress.

The states rebate program offers price reductions ranging from $1,500 for plug-in hybrids, $2,500 for battery electric vehicles and $5,000 for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

There is also a $900 rebate for zero-emissions motorcycles.

Applications for Rebate Now can be filled out at the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project website: https://cleanvehiclerebate.org/eng/rebatenow

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Once approved, customers have 14 days to use the preapproved rebate to buy or lease a ZEV. Taylor said if customers need more time, they can apply for a 14-day extension. If they still dont buy or lease a ZEV, the pre-approval will cancel out but customers can reapply.

San Diego County customers who dont apply for Rebate Now can still get their rebates sent to them.

The pilot program follows the same rules for eligibility the state put into place in 2016.

That year, some high-income earners were nixed from receiving rebates while more money was given to lower-income households.

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The new rules eliminated rebates for those whose income exceeds $150,000 for single tax filers, $204,000 for head of household filers and $300,000 for joint filers.

The caps do not apply for hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, though.

Meanwhile, people with household incomes less than or equal to 300 percent of the federal poverty level receive $4,500 for buying or leasing battery-electric vehicles, $3,500 for plug-in hybrids and $7,000 for fuel cell vehicles.

Three hundred percent of the poverty level translates into gross income for an individual of $36,180 or less, or a family of four earning under $73,800.

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Officials at CSE think the Rebate Now program will help boost ZEV sales.

We believe this has particular appeal to folks in disadvantaged communities, so it enables program equity, Taylor said. But it also enables most all Californians to participate as well.

Gov. Jerry Brown has set a target of 1.5 million clean-energy vehicles on Californias roads by 2025. Just under 368,000 battery-electric and plug-in hybrids have been sold in the state.

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rob.nikolewski@sduniontribune.com

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(619) 293-1251 Twitter: @robnikolewski

ALSO

California tweaks electric car rebates: Will it work?

SDG&E to offer $1,000 rebates for first responders and teachers

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Clean vehicle rebate funding reinstatedFun fact: Charles Darwin, the father of evolution, and Abraham Lincoln were both born on the same day, Feb. 12, 1809.

But at the Natural History Museum Sunday, it was all about Darwin, from the birthday sheet cake to a live tortoise and dead beetles.

Two brothers from Palm Springs pondered who was more important, Lincoln or Darwin.

For the U.S., I think Lincoln was probably more important, said Andrew Nelson, 11.

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But he and his brother, Thomas, 8, agreed that on a global basis, Darwin probably is No. 1, because he found evidence of evolution in the fossils he found, species he studied and the writings he published before he died in 1882.

A steady stream of families wandered about the museums atrium looking at artifacts and collections that recalled Darwins work. Some preschoolers kept busy coloring drawings of Darwin and his discoveries.

Included in one glass display case was a 20-inch-tall replica of the HMS Beagle. Darwin sailed in the British survey vessel from 1831 to 1836, collecting specimens from South America to Australia to South Africa. He sent them back to England, along with copies of his log and observations, which fellow naturalists studied.

And by the time he returned, he had become a scientific celebrity, even though he had not studied the subject in a university. He was the epitome of the ages gentleman scientist, who had enough independent sources of income to pursue his obsessions without having to make money from the results.

Docent Marilyn Miles said children ask the best questions, which she has to research to answer correctly. She had a copy of Darwins book The Voyage of the Beagle at the ready.

At another table, docent Maureen Lewis showed off her pet desert tortoise, Capt. Jack Sparrow, whod lost his right eye. She said she hadnt found a proper eye patch to match that worn by the Pirates of the Caribbean character in the Disney movies.

On his voyage, Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador, where the presence of giant tortoises helped him develop his theory of natural selection. Shells of such giant tortoises were sitting next to Lewis pet for the kids to touch and examine.

Next to Lewis was Kathy Radinovsky, another docent, who explained a collection of stuffed but varied examples of finches. Darwin found a similar diversity on the islands and concluded that they and other animals adapt physically to deal with different climate conditions and food sources.This differentiation came to be called natural selection.

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Another case included 64 types of beetles  Darwin collected beetles as a youth, stoking his interest in the natural world.

At the coloring book table were photos of a brown lacewing, a bug that Darwin collected on his expedition. It made its way into the museums collection some years ago as part of an acquisition of some of another museums materials. Today its kept in a vault at the institution.

Docent Bill DAblaing, a Montgomery High School teacher until he retired after 33 years in 2002, manned a table with books and photographs related to Darwin. He kept covered the birthday cake, complete with a picture of the bearded Darwin, until cutting time.

When he was in high school in the 1950s, DAblaing recalled that evolution wasnt even mentioned in biology textbooks until the last chapters and teachers routinely never got to that subject. Current textbooks, of course, put evolution front and center.

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He and docent coordinator Carol Wilson organized the first Darwin birthday celebration in 2014 and add new items of interest each year. On the second floor, a seven-minute video, also available online, runs continuously in one of the alcoves, What is the Evidence for Evolution.

This is a way of giving the dragon of ignorance a good whack, DAblaing said.

David Archibald, retired biology professor at San Diego State University and former Natural History Museum trustee, said Darwins book On the Origin of Species remains the most important book of its kind in the 19th century, if not for all time.

Nothing in biology makes sense in the light of evolution, he said. There is zero controversy about evolution among scientists.

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But while a leader in his day, Darwin was not faultless in some of his beliefs, Archibald said. He vigorously opposed slavery but had what today would be considered racist views when it came to the undeveloped world.

By Victorian standards, he was not the worst of the worst, he said. By modern perspectives he would be more liberal than some of his colleagues.

The two boys from Palm Springs had known about Darwin before their father, John Nelson, brought them for a visit. They said they probably learned about him via YouTube.

As for their hopes and dreams, Andrew said hed like to study medicine, law or astrophysics. Thomas said hed like to be a programmer  but what kind he has not yet decided.

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roger.showley@sduniontribune.com; (619) 293-1286; Twitter: @rogershowleyRequests for sexual harassment awareness training are skyrocketing in response to recent scandals in Hollywood, Silicon Valley and the White House.

California has expanded training requirements and new laws have been introduced on the subject.

Experts say training is a good start but changing corporate culture is a necessity in reducing harassment.

The food, beverage and hospitality industry gets the most complaints about sexual harassment.

The San Diego Union-Tribune and the University of San Diego School of Law are co-sponsoring a free community forum Tuesday on sexual harassment. It will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at USDs Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice, 5998 Alcala Park in Linda Vista. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. Reservations may be made online sandiegouniontribune.com/sexualharassmentforum.

Heres the full story:

The recent reports of sexual harassment  from Hollywood to Capitol Hill to Wall Street  have prompted an upsurge in training courses that experts are updating to reflect the latest examples making front-page news.

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Jeremy Tillman, founder and chairman of TrainUp, a Dallas-based company that more than 50 San Diego companies hired last year, said inquiries on his sexual harassment training programs have skyrocketed. They stood at 267 in January 2017 and about 2,150 last month.

Weve reached a point to where companies can no longer turn a blind eye, he said.

Since 2005, California employers have been required to conduct two hours of sexual harassment awareness training every other year for supervisors and executives in companies with 50 or more employees. The subjects covered have expanded over the years, extending to gender identity, expression and orientation as of Jan. 1.

Actors play a scene in a fictitious breakroom where one woman wears a provocative T-shirt and falls into the arms of her colleague at her birthday party. (Workplace Training Network )

Experts say two hours of training doesnt guarantee better behavior, judging by the publicized cases of late.

Heres what doesnt work  relying solely on compliance rules, education and training  to prevent or address sexual harassment,  said Johnny C. Taylor Jr., president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, at a joint legislative committee hearing in Sacramento last month. We could demand that every employee take 10 hours of sexual harassment training every week and accusations would still happen.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission logged 356 complaints last year in California, up from 2016 but below the high of 441 filed in 2014.

Canned talks still raise awareness

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Nina Woodard, a CSU San Marcos lecturer on human resource management, said the presentations most workers receive, though mostly canned and generic, at least raise the awareness level of what harassment means.

One of the really big gifts President Trump has given us is to peel off the scabs on a lot of sores. Woodard said.

Kit Goldman, a San Diego actress who runs in-person and online sexual harassment training sessions, said she has seen an upsurge in calls in recent months.

Theres definitely an awareness of how damaging (harassment) is, because people have seen companies and careers evaporate from this, she said.

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Next month, she and her team will be shooting nine new videos to bring her sexual harassment vignettes up to date. She also gathers fellow actors together to demonstrate the donts in the workplace at onsite training sessions.

My job is to help my clients stay solvent, lawful and happy in the workplace, she said.

Personally she recalls a harassment encounter when she interviewed for her first job at the age 16  to wrap holiday packages at a Los Angeles department store.

I remember walking into the managers office and he asked me to take my shirt off to get the job, she said. I unbuttoned it and said, Thats all Im going to do.

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She got the job, nevertheless.

Actors play a human resources director, left, administrator, center, and a doctor discussing inappropriate behavior by a department head in a hospital. (Gregg Ward Group )

If companies dont take take steps to deter harassment, they can pay a high price. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said it received a record $46.3 million in monetary benefits in 2017 in sexual harassment cases, up 13.8 percent from 2016.

The Consumer Attorneys of California said several laws have been introduced in Sacramento this year to clamp down even further:

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Extend the statute of limitations from the current one-year maximum to three years.

Broaden the definition of who can sue in the course of searching for work.

Loosen arbitration-requir provisions in employment contracts.

Regulate how many years company must keep complaint records.

But the groups legislative counsel, Jacqueline Serna, said no bills have yet been introduced to require all employees to undergo harassment awareness training. Some companies conduct training for nonsupervisorial workers.

Hollywood, Silicon Valley, New York and Washington, D.C., may have dominated the headlines of egregious behavior, mostly men harassing women.

Food, beverage, hospitality industry a harassment hotspot

But the food, beverage and hospitality industry has historically seen the most cases, experts say.

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We just have much more exposure that any of these other industries, said Stephen Zolezzi, president and CEO of the San Diego Food & Beverage Association. Its a hospitality environment. Theres more of an opportunity to be familiar with people and that could be offensive to somebody  where do you draw the line?

His members pay $30 per person for online biannual sexual harassment training  a charge that can run much higher for in-person sessions. And the need is constant. he said.

Melody Nelson, vice president of human resources at Burger Lounge Restaurants, said her company uses online training courses that feature animated scenarios and quizzes throughout. Onsite instructor sessions also have been held.

Were at work and we can be friendly and caring and have close bonds with employees, but we always have to maintain professionalism, she said.

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Heather Whitley-Quinn, human resources director at the Manpower employment agency, said virtually the entire staff, not just management, receive sexual harassment training. But she acknowledged that low-level employees at any company may still not feel empowered to complain because they cannot afford to quit and look for a new job.

That makes a person hesitant to speak out, she said. If they leave an organization they may not necessarily be able to get good references if they make waves. These issues are probably still pretty common.

Local attorneys who represent both employers and employees in sexual harassment cases said while training is required, many bosses and their workers dont take the rules very seriously  that is, until theres a problem.

Its not just about sex  its about power, said Joshua Gruenberg, who represents workers suing companies, and there are folks in the workplace who want to exert power over others.

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Gruenberg began his legal career in the aftermath of Anita Hills allegations against Supreme Court justice nominee Clarence Thomas in 1991 and has gotten a boost in calls from potential clients as with allegations multiplied against President Donald Trump, Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein, NBC anchor Matt Lauer and many others  despite robust anti-harassment policies in place.

People tend to let the worst of their human nature come out at times,Gruenberg said. We dont expect this to stop, just like we dont expect discrimination cases to stop.

Tough policies dont prevent bad practices

Just recently, he sued the city on behalf of a Park and Recreation Department employee who alleged her boss had created an intolerable working environment when she fended off his advances. The city has extensive training and anti-harassment policies that also failed it when former Mayor Bob Filner did not take the required training and resigned over allegations from numerous women five years ago.

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Aimee Axelrod Parker, a Cozen OConnor attorney who represents employers and management, said in recent training sessions, clients have expressed concern about false accusations. But she warns them that every accusation must be taken seriously and handled objectively.

When someone is found to be harassing, training veteran Gregg Ward said the most effective deterrent is company action.

The best way to send a message is to fire somebody whos engaged in this behavior, and everybody knows it, he said.

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roger.showley@sduniontribune.com; (619) 293-1286; Twitter: @rogershowleyBroadcom has lined up $100 billion in debt financing from a dozen major financial backers to pay for its hostile takeover bid for Qualcomm, the company said early Monday.

The massive debt commitment answers a key concern about whether Broadcom could fund the $121 billion deal  keeping the pressure on Qualcomms board of directors ahead of a meeting with Broadcom Chief Executive Hock Tan expected on Wednesday.

Broadcom said it has received credit commitment for the deal from major banks including B of A/Merrill Lynch, affiliates of Deutsche Bank, J.P. Morgan, Mizuho, Wells Fargo, BMO Capital, Morgan Stanley, RBC Capital Markets, Union Bank parent Mitsubishi Financial and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp.

It also has added private equity firms KKR and CVC Capital, which have joined Broadcoms long-time private equity backer Silver Lake Partners in agreeing to supply $6 billion in convertible debt to fund the transaction and for working capital if it closes.

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Silver Lake had already committed $5 billion in bridge financing and investment funds toward the proposed deal.

Qualcomms stock price has been depressed for more than a year because of legal battles with Apple and global competition regulators over patent licensing  opening the door for Broadcoms takeover attempt.

A Broadcom buyout likely would have a significant impact on San Diego  eliminating one of only two locally headquartered Fortune 500 companies.

In addition, Tan has a reputation for running lean. Though Broadcom and Qualcomm posted similar sales this year, Tan employs 17,000 global workers, compared with Qualcomms 33,000 employees worldwide, including roughly 13,000 in San Diego.

Broadcom has been pursuing a buyout of Qualcomm since November. Last week, it raised its offer to $82 per share -- $60 in cash and $22 in Broadcom stock. The debt financing would fully fund the cash portion of the deal.

Qualcomms board rejected both Broadcoms original $70 per share offer and the new $82 per share offer.

But Qualcomms board did agree to meet with Tan this week for the first time. That meeting is slated for Wednesday.

Qualcomms shares ended trading Monday up 2.6 percent at $65.66  well below Broadcoms $82 per share offer.

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The gap between Qualcomms current share price and Broadcoms offer stems from a lack of confidence from investors that a deal will get worked out, said long-time Qualcomm shareholder Steven Re of Fairbanks Capital Management.

I dont think any of us are optimistic about a better deal coming out of Wednesdays meeting for the shareholders, he said.

Re thinks Qualcomm needs to separate its chip division from its troubled patent licensing arm if it hopes to boost its current stock price and fend off Broadcoms hostile takeover.

He said Qualcomm should offer to sell Tan the companys chip division alone on Wednesday, keeping the patent licensing business itself.

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At least twice in its history, Qualcomm has considered splitting the company but decided against the move because the two businesses rely on each other.

Qualcomm contends that even at $82 per share, the price doesnt put any value to Qualcomm eventually settling its legal disputes, its pending $38 billion acquisition of Dutch Automotive chip maker NXP Semiconductors or the major market opportunity from 5G wireless networks, which are expected to begin rolling out early next year.

Qualcomm also has raised concerns that the acquisition would face tough scrutiny from global antitrust regulators that could last for 18 months. If regulators eventually blocked the deal, Qualcomm contends its business would have been irreparably harmed in the interim.

Tan points out that Qualcomms shares have traded above $82 for only three days in its 27 year history as a public company.

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The reason Qualcomm is in this situation isnt only the Apple dispute, wrote Raymond James analysts Chris Caso in a research report. Even before the Apple dispute, Qualcomm hadnt grown earnings since fiscal year 2013, despite being the dominant technological leader in its core market. So while Qualcomms technology has clearly benefited the industry, shareholders havent benefited for a while.

Tan proposed an $8 billion break-up fee should regulators block the merger. And he has pledged to pay 6 percent annual interest on the $60 cash portion of the transaction should it fail to close in a year.

In addition, Tan said his offer stands if Qualcomm acquires NXP for the current $110 per share agreed upon price or if the offer is terminated. But the deal is off if Qualcomm pays more for NXP.

Activist NXP shareholders are advocating for a higher price for the long-delayed deal, which is still awaiting regulatory approval in China. NXP shareholder Elliott Management says the company is worth $135 per share.

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Meanwhile, Broadcom has nominated 11 candidates to replace Qualcomms entire board of directors to push the deal through.

Shareholders will vote on Broadcoms candidates or Qualcomms current board by the companys March 6 annual stockholder meeting.

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mike.freeman@sduniontribune.com;

Twitter:@TechDiego

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760-529-4973Escondido-based nonprofit Interfaith Community Services offers free tax help for eligible community members through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

The program, funded by the County of San Diego, the Internal Revenue Service and United Way of San Diego, provides free assistance preparing tax returns for veterans, active-duty military and their families and community members with disabilities, seniors and limited English-speaking taxpayers. The income limit for eligibility is typically about $54,000.

IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals.

Folks can also prepare their own tax returns at the nonprofits computer labs during lab hours. Interfaith Community Services provides the link for families to prepare their own taxes through the nonprofits website: https://www.interfaithservices.org.

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You must bring the following documents to tax preparation meetings: Proof of identification (picture ID); Social Security cards or ITINs for you, your spouse and dependents (for married filing joint, both spouses must be present); tax forms such as W-2, 1099; SSN Verification Letter issued by the Social Security Administration or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number; proof of account and banks routing number for direct deposit.

Here are a few area VITA tax preparation locations and hours:

Libby Lake Resource Center, 4700 N. River Road, Suite A, Oceanside: 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; (760) 721-2117, ext. 205.

Crown Heights Resource Center, 1210 Division St., Oceanside: 3 to 6 p.m. first and third Wednesdays of each month; (760) 435-3335.

Chavez Resource Center, 605 San Diego St., Oceanside: 3 to 6 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays of each month; (760) 435-3371.

Carlsbad Service Center, 5731 Palmer Way, Suite A, Carlsbad: 1 to 5 p.m. Fridays and 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays; (760) 448-5696.

Inland Interfaith Community Services, 550 W. Washington Ave., Escondido: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays; (760) 489-6380.

San Marcos site at a housing complex, 422 Los Vallecitos Blvd., San Marcos: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; (760) 489-6380.

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To schedule an appointment, visit myfreetaxes.org or call (760) 489-6380.The San Diego Union-Tribune and the University of San Diego School of Law are co-sponsoring a free community forum on sexual harassment.

The community dialogue will be held Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. at USDs Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice, 5998 Alcala Park, San Diego. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. To reserve your seat, go to sandiegouniontribune.com/sexualharassmentforum.

The event is the third in a series of Union-Tribune community dialogues on important issues.

In light of the sexual harassment and sexual assault allegations against Hollywood film mogul Harvey Weinstein and the #MeToo movement that followed in that scandals wake, this event will feature San Diegans who will share their personal experiences with sexual harassment, as well as local professionals who can offer advice on what to do if you have been sexually harassed.

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After the panel discussion, the experts will be taking questions from the audience.

The panelists are:

Irene McCormack: The former communications director for San Diego Mayor Bob Filner, McCormack was the first woman to publicly accuse Filner of sexual harassment. He resigned in August of 2013 after less than one year in office.

Adama Iwu: The senior director of government relations for Visa, Iwu started the campaign to expose harassment in California state politics. Iwu, a graduate of USD, was one of Time magazines Silence Breakers and is also the co-founder of the We Said Enough Foundation.

Carolina Bravo-Karimi: An employment law attorney, Bravo-Karimi focuses on wrongful termination, discrimination and harassment. In 2017, she won a University of San Diego School of Law Rising Star Recent Alumni Award.

Dan Gilleon: The longtime local trial lawyer specializes in employment, civil rights and violence against women cases.

Sage Breslin: A trauma psychologist, Breslin is an author and educator who speaks on domestic violence, sexual trauma, eating disorders and womens issues.

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Twitter: @karla_peterson

karla.peterson@sduniontribune.comA Glendale pastor suspected of sexually assaulting a minor in a Covina hotel room surrendered himself to authorities Sunday morning after days of hiding.

Douglas Rivera, of Baldwin Park, and his attorney showed up at the Covina Police Department about 11 a.m. and Rivera turned himself in, Sgt. Ray Marquez said. Rivera was arrested and booked on multiple charges, including sexual assault, indecent exposure and burglary with intent to commit a crime, Marquez said.

Riveras bail is set at $280,000.

On Friday, Rivera posted an Instagram video clip in which he addressed the camera, denied the allegations against him and said he planned to surrender to authorities next week, according to KTLA news.

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I did not do nothing wrong. I was at the wrong place at the wrong time, Rivera says into the camera. Something happened in that hotel and thats the simple answer.

Rivera, 40, is suspected of driving to the Vanllee Hotel and Suites in Covina just after 8 p.m. Wednesday, where he spotted a lit room with its drapes open and spied on two minors who were inside, police said. Rivera then proceeded to masturbate in his vehicle as he watched the minors, police said.

He then got out of his car and stood outside the hotel room window, where he pretended to be on his phone, police said. After 30 minutes, Rivera went inside the hotel and forced his way into the room where the minors were staying, police said.

Covina police said the minors, reported by KTLA to be part of a tourist group from China, opened the door for him thinking it was their chaperone.

He assaulted one of the minors and then fled from the area in his car, authorities said.

Rivera is listed as a pastor of Gods Gypsy Christian Church, which worships out of Glendale City Church.

On Friday evening, Glendale City Church released a statement on Facebook distancing itself from Rivera. It said the relationship between the city church and Gods Gypsy Christian was simply lessor to lessee.

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Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, with the RYMM congregation, with law enforcement and with Rev. Rivera, according to the statement, which refers to Renewing Your Mind Ministries, words on the Gypsy Christian Churchs website. We pray for justice and healing to win the day.

cindy.carcamo@latimes.com

andy.nguyen@latimes.com

UPDATES:

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3:25 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from police.

This article was originally posted at 12:20 p.m.#BTS Environmentally conscious K-pop fans move to protect BTS 'Butter' beach K-pop fans launched a campaign to help protect a beach in eastern Korea that has become popular after the global superstars BTS shot their photos for the "Butter" album. Korea B...State Sen. Joel Anderson is routinely ranked among the most conservative members of the Legislature, yet he doesnt balk at teaming up with the American Civil Liberties Union on privacy issues.

Hes been named lawmaker of the year by the California Sheriffs Association, but has carried legislation adamantly opposed by law enforcement.

The East County Republican may be strong on law and order, but hes passionate about protecting civil liberties in an increasingly invasive digital world.

Those tensions came into play over a recent Anderson bill that would allow people to cover their license plates when their vehicles are parked.

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With the growing use of automated license plate readers by police and businesses, the legislation became another flash point in the struggle between protecting privacy and ensuring public safety.

For those, like Anderson, who are concerned that every computer keystroke goes into a database that tracks where weve been online, they worry license plate readers create a record of where people go physically. Some devices can scan more than 1,000 plates a minute.

People use law enforcement as an excuse to erode our civil liberties, Anderson said. This is one of the times the hard right and hard left agree on a bill.

The measure had bipartisan support but even that coalition was unable to overcome opposition from law enforcement. Andersons Senate Bill 712, sponsored by the Electronic Frontier Foundation, advanced out of committee but was defeated on the Senate floor late last month by a 12-18 vote.

That hasnt ended the debate over how automated plate readers are used and how the data is handled.

One argument for the measure seems simple. People can now obscure their license plates with full covers that protect their cars from the elements. If thats legal, why not let them cover just their plates to protect from unwarranted snooping?

For one thing, relatively few people use the big covers and virtually no one does during a trip to the mall.

The California Police Chiefs Association said the smaller plate covers would hinder investigations and hand criminals another tool to avoid detection by law enforcement.

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License plate information of parked vehicles has been used to locate wanted persons, including suspected kidnappers and fugitives, the association said in opposing Andersons bill.

Anderson disputes how effective the scanners are in solving crimes, but said if police want that information, they should be forced to collect it manually. They would have the right to lift up the cover and check plates.

This is a shortcut at the expense of my civil liberties, he said.

Local law enforcement agencies said the license plate readers  mounted on police vehicles or street lamp posts  have shown results. Shortly after Carlsbad installed stationary automated license plate readers, police said they led to the discovery of three stolen vehicles and the arrest of three suspects.

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Escondido Police Chief Craig Carter, head of the regional police chiefs association, said adequate safeguards are in place locally to make sure license plate data is not misused. He said checks and balances are there to keep it to a criminal investigation.

According to widely followed guidelines by the Automated Regional Justice Information System (ARJIS), license reading data is not to be accessed for the purpose of monitoring individual activities protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. The regional server does not contain alert lists for any of the following activities: insurance issues, parking scofflaws, deadbeat parents, and/or vehicle impounds.

But some of the wording in the guidelines give critics pause.

The system exists for the sole purpose of assisting law enforcement officers with ongoing criminal investigations and only for authorized public safety purposes. (Italics added for emphasis.)

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The data is sent into the ARJIS system and purged after 12 months. If the information is relevant to a criminal investigation, an agency must document that and put the data on its own server.

Safeguards have been growing in recent years and there have been discussions about federal legislation to limit how license data systems can be used.

Misuse of license plate information has generated national headlines. Police in New York scanned plates of automobiles parked near a mosque. In Florida, dozens of officers inappropriately accessed the data, sometimes for personal use.

In 2015, Los Angeles considered allowing police to scan vehicles entering or parked in high prostitution areas. The city would then send Dear John letters to the addresses associated with the plates  with hopes that mothers, wives or girlfriends would open them.

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Carter said the increasing use of the technology, and the concern for abuse, makes it all the more important that police agencies adhere to guidelines. The threat of legislative restrictions and bans exists.

Most people want to make sure we dont have what they call mission creep . . . and get into the lives of private individuals, he said.

He said law enforcement agencies are heavily scrutinized on this front. And they should be, he added.

Anderson questions the value of this surveillance on parked vehicles, citing reports that criminal hits using the technology are rare  less than 1 percent overall, according to the ACLU.

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But in a day when people are frequently on camera in public places and computer information is captured from unwitting users, automated license plate readers seem part of an inevitable trend.

Anderson acknowledges hes trying to push back the tide, but says its worth the fight to at least slow the constant chipping away at privacy.

He added that many people probably wouldnt go to the effort to put on license plate covers, but those concerned about privacy should have that option.

One of the drawbacks, should his proposal be revived and passed, is that people might forget to take them off.

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That could result in an unfortunate and ironic situation for the innocent.

Driving with your plates covered is illegal. Mistakenly leaving the covers on would create probable cause for police to stop the car  of a person who only wanted to protect his or her privacy.

That would be an automatic pull over, Carter said. No doubt.

Tweet of the Week

Goes to Rep. Scott Peters (@RepScottPeters), on voting against the budget bill.

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Some people have called this bill drunken sailor spending, but as a San Diegan, I have too much respect for drunken sailors to associate them with this. I will just say its super irresponsible.A free, 15-city tour that aims to broaden the publics knowledge of Alzheimers disease kicks off in San Diego on Feb. 20.

Presented by the Alzheimers Foundation of America, the one-day symposium, which is scheduled for the Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina on Harbor Island, includes expert presentations on the current state of Alzheimers research and information for caregivers who have a loved one suffering from the disease.

Its the second year for the tour, which started in San Francisco last year. The plan, said foundation president Charles Fuschillo Jr., is to visit cities in all 50 states by the end of 2019.

Our focus is really providing the education that caregivers need, Fuschillo said. Our workshops are as practical as we can make them, and we just want to ensure that, when people walk away from the conference, that theyre better educated about how to care for their loved one than they were when they arrived.

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Understanding the ever-changing landscape of Alzheimers research is a big part of the challenge for anyone facing the disease and is a big part of the conference. Dr. Mark Stecker, chief of neurology at UC San Francisco, will provide a one-hour exposition on the subject titled, Unraveling Alzheimers Disease: Whats on the horizon?

Free memory screenings will also be available after another hour-long session titled, Safeguarding Your Space  and Your Loved One. The gathering rounds out with lunch-time panel discussions and finishes with a presentation on using comedic improvisation skills to improve communication with people suffering from neurodegenerative disease.

The event starts at 8:30 a.m. and finishes at 2:30 p.m. at the Sheraton, 1380 Harbor Island Drive. The foundation asks participants to pre-register by visiting bit.ly/SDALZ and clicking the click here to register button at the top of the page. A full agenda is also available at the registration site.

After starting in San Diego, the conference will visit Tempe, Ariz.; Boston; Nashville, Tenn.; Charleston, S.C.; Birmingham, Ala.; New York, Milwaukee, Cleveland, Fairfax, Va.; Little Rock, Ark.; Minneapolis; New Orleans and Atlanta, ending in Austin, Texas, on Nov. 14.

Health Playlist On Now Video: Why aren't Americans getting flu shots? 0:37 On Now Video: Leaders urge public to help extinguish hepatitis outbreak On Now San Diego starts cleansing sidewalks, streets to combat hepatitis A On Now Video: Scripps to shutter its hospice service On Now Video: Scripps La Jolla hospitals nab top local spot in annual hospital rankings On Now Video: Does a parent's Alzheimer's doom their children? On Now Video: Vaccine can prevent human papillomavirus, which can cause cancer 0:31 On Now 23 local doctors have already faced state discipline in 2017 0:48 On Now EpiPen recall expands On Now Kids can add years to your life

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paul.sisson@sduniontribune.com

(619) 293-1850

Twitter: @paulsissonCalifornia Attorney General Xavier Becerra threatened another lawsuit against the Trump administration if the federal government follows through on a proposal to include a question about citizenship on the 2020 census.

Becerra, along with attorneys general from New York and Massachusetts, led a coalition of 19 colleagues that sent a letter to the U.S. Commerce Secretary on Monday arguing that a question about citizenship would have a chilling effect on immigrant participation in the official population count. That would be harmful to states like California that have large immigrant communities, the letter says.

What the Trump Administration is requesting is not just alarming, it is illegal, Becerra said. The California Department of Justice is putting President Trump on notice: if a citizenship question is added to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau questionnaire, we are prepared to take any and all necessary legal action to protect a full and accurate Census. This is clearly an attempt to bully and discourage our immigrant communities from participating in the 2020 Census count.

The Department of Justice sent a request in December to the U.S. Census Bureau to include a question about citizenship on the next census in order to measure the citizen voting-age population for enforcement of the Voting Rights Act.

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In their letter, the attorneys general argued that would weaken voting rights rather than strengthen them.

Since the census is used to determine the number of Congressional representatives to allocate, the state officials who signed the letter are concerned that places with large immigrant communities would be underrepresented.

Theyre also worried that federal funding that is given out based on population size would also shrink for places with large immigrant communities because non-citizens or former non-citizens might hesitate to participate in a census that asks about citizenship status.

As the largest and most diverse state in the nation, California has a lot on the line and only one chance to get it right, said California Secretary of State Alex Padilla. We will not sit idly by while this administration undermines yet another pillar of our democracy.

The proposed questionnaire for the 2020 census is due at the end of March.

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Immigration Videos On Now New developments in family separation case 9:53 On Now A San Diego woman volunteered as a medic in Texas helping migrant families 2:35 On Now Immigration policy protests in Carlsbad nearly cancelled after permit issue 1:38 On Now When children are separated from their parents at the border, here is where they go next On Now Prospects of a deal for 'Dreamers' may hinge on separating Trump from hard-liners on his staff On Now What is DACA? On Now Border wall prototype contractors selected On Now Video: Ukrainian boxer wins asylum in U.S. On Now 30 apprehended after Border Patrol agents discover tunnel On Now Video: Kurdish diaspora prepare to vote on independence

Follow me on Facebook for live updates about immigration news

kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate on TwitterA San Diego police patrol SUV carrying an arrestee crashed along southbound Interstate 15 early Monday afternoon, and a witness pulled the officer from the vehicle, authorities said.

The solo-vehicle crash on I-15, south of University Avenue in City Heights, happened about 12:55 p.m., California Highway Patrol Officer Jim Bettencourt said.

Police Lt. Charles Lara told reporters, including OnScene TV, that the officer appeared to have had some sort of medical issue while he was driving.

The SUV crashed into the center divide, then swerved onto the right shoulder, where it came to a rest, he said. It struck no cars on the freeway. Initial reports suggested that the vehicle had rolled, but Lara said that does not appear to be the case.

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Lara said the officer was initially unresponsive when a passerby pulled him from the SUV, but was later conscious and talking.

Both the officer and the person in custody in the back seat were taken to the hospital, he said. The arrestee was handcuffed and wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, as per department policy.

Police Sgt. Ed Zwibel later said the officer was hospitalized with minor injuries, but he did not have information on what sort of medical condition if any that the officer had experienced before the crash. The prisoner, he said, was evaluated at the hospital and released back to police.

The crash led CHP to close two lanes and issue a traffic alert.

teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com

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(760) 529-4945

Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT

UPDATES:

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4:20 p.m.: This story was updated with new information. It was originally published at 1:30 p.m.The Trump administration proposed a spending plan on Monday that projects deficits as far as the eye can see, giving up the longtime Republican goal of a balanced budget to champion a spending plan replete with cash for a host of military programs and some domestic ones the presidents supporters might admire.

The budget calls for about $716 billion in annual defense spending, more than $100 billion above the level Trump requested last year. Add in the tax cuts Republicans pushed through in December and the extra spending Congress approved just last week, and the result is a flood of red ink projected to send the national debt ever higher.

Trumps budget anticipates deficits throughout the next 10 years even if Congress were to approve some $3 trillion in cuts over that same time period that hes proposing for a wide range of federal programs. Both parties already rejected most of those cuts last year and have shown little interest in pursuing them.

The deficits persist even though the White House is forecasting extremely optimistic levels of economic growth. If growth falls short of those projections  most economists think it will  deficits would be higher still.

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As a result, the budget marks something of a milestone  the Trump administrations abandonment of the quest for budget balance that the Republican Party has claimed as a guiding light for years, at least rhetorically.

In reality, deficits have often soared under Republican presidents as the party has put cutting taxes ahead of balancing budgets on its list of priorities. In the past, however, Republican administrations have taken pains to at least come up with a budget that would balance on paper.

The budget unveiling led off with the administrations infrastructure plan, released with a statement from the president promising to build gleaming new roads, bridges and highways all across our land.

Despite the bold promise, the plan involves a relatively small amount of new federal spending  $200 billion offset, at least partially, by cuts to other programs. The administration claims the new money would spur some $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investments from state, local and private sources, but that would depend to a large degree on the willingness of local and state officials to raise taxes for transportation projects.

Washington no longer will be a roadblock to progress, Trump told a group of state and local officials gathered at the White House.

Progress, as laid out in the budget, means building and spending on projects important to Trumps core supporters. The president proposes investment in popular causes including fighting the opioid epidemic and bolstering medical care for veterans.

He is also asking for $1.6 billion to build 65 miles of border wall in the Rio Grande Valley in south Texas, just one installment of the larger border wall promise that helped propel him to the Oval Office. He also proposed pouring more money into immigration enforcement.

But Trumps plan also defines progress as cutting programs that many of his voters dont like, including climate-change research at the Environmental Protection Agency and programs under the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.

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He also once again is proposing to eliminate federal money for a number of longtime conservative targets, including the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Congress brushed aside those ideas last year.

His budget would slash almost $700 billion in federal healthcare spending that helps low- and moderate-income Americans who rely on insurance marketplaces created by the 2010 healthcare law.

As Republicans proposed last year, the plan would replace much existing healthcare spending with grants to states, allowing each one to craft its own health program. Similar proposals last year failed in the Senate, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has indicated that the chamber wont consider another run at Obamacare this year.

The spending blueprint also outlines nearly $1.5 trillion in cuts over the next decade to Medicaid, the government health plan for the poor  another proposal that was rejected in Congress last year.

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The administration said the sweeping reductions reflect a goal to cut regulation and empower patients and doctors. Independent studies, as well as evaluations by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, however, have projected that cuts of that magnitude would leave tens of millions of Americans without health coverage.

One illustration of the gap between the budget and congressional reality: Last week, as administration officials were putting the final touches on their spending plan, lawmakers reached a bipartisan budget deal that included an agreement to raise spending on both military and domestic programs over the next two years. Congress is highly unlikely to throw out its own decisions in favor of embracing those of the president.

Trumps budget director, Mick Mulvaney, acknowledged as much in the letter he sent to House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) transmitting the budget on Monday. The administration doesnt believe the new spending decisions comport with its vision for the role and size of the government, Mulvaney wrote

Ryan was circumspect.

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This budget lays out a thoughtful, detailed and responsible blueprint for achieving our shared agenda, he said Monday.

The unlikely cuts are just part of what makes Mondays budget partially fiction. The spending plan also assumes that the countrys economic growth will surge to greater than 3% this year and stay above that level for several years to come  a projection most economists think is optimistic. The CBO estimates that the gross domestic product will expand at somewhere around 2% a year over the coming years.

Because government revenues rise with economic growth, the deficit will be even higher than the budget acknowledges if the administrations rosy forecast proves inaccurate.

The country is facing a massive fiscal challenge, and the presidents budget doesnt own up to these realities and fails to call for a suite of credible policies that would help change course, said Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, which over the years has chastised presidents of both parties for not balancing the budget.

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The budget has too many gimmicks, exaggerated savings and rosy assumptions. Most troubling, it doesnt make the credible hard choices necessary to help bring the debt back to more manageable levels.

In recent years, Republicans preached that message loudly. GOP lawmakers, led in part by Mulvaney, fought President Obamas spending plans through much of his presidency, insisting that the government should not spend more than it takes in.

Obama ran a large deficit in his first few years as the government spent heavily to stimulate the economy after the deep recession. The deficit then began a steady decline through most of the rest of Obamas tenure. The deficit began to increase again in the 2016 fiscal year and has climbed since. It is expected to top $1 trillion by next year.

That left Republicans who sounded the warning bell under a Democratic president in an awkward place on Monday.

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As Washington pored over the budget proposal, the presidents fellow Republicans emphasized the rough-draft nature of the proposal, particularly in terms of its costs.

It is just that, a first step, said Sen. Michael B. Enzi (R-Wyo.), chair of the Senate Budget Committee.

Balancing the budget should always be the goal, added Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.), Enzis counterpart in the House.

But Democrats bemoaned a world in which the administration would even suggest such deep cuts to social programs for the poor and aged  especially so soon on the heels of generous tax cuts to rich people and corporations.

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While corporations reap billions in tax giveaways, older Americans who at least knew if they got sick when they got older theyd be taken care of, now have to worry, said Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.), the chambers minority leader.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) called the presidents budget proposal a brutal collection of broken promises and staggering cuts.

christi.parsons@latimes.com

Twitter: @cparsons

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UPDATES:

2:40 p.m.: This article was updated with additional detail on the budget proposals.

12:45 p.m.: This article was updated with additional reaction.

12:10 p.m.: This article was updated with reaction from lawmakers and details about cuts to healthcare and diplomacy.

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9:35 a.m.: This article was updated with comments from President Trump and details from the budget.

This article was originally published at 8 a.m.Meredith Meyers is entirely correct (Why those take-out containers have got to go, Feb. 7). Styrofoam (polystyrene) is a product that has long outlived its usefulness. There are many better products that work as well, cost no more, and do far less damage to our environment.

In Santa Cruz County, we banned Styrofoam 10 years ago, and nobody misses it a bit. Our beaches and parks are cleaner, our ocean is healthier and our wildlife is safer.

And we still get our hot food and beverages just as easily and at the same low price. Time to let it go.

Tim Goncharoff

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Santa Cruz

Gee, do you think Chris Duggan (Why penalizing small restaurants wont reduce litter, Feb. 8) has an ax to grind on the issue of banning plastic foam containers? Plastic foam doesnt biodegrade, cardboard does. Most plastic foam is not currently being recycled, its going into the trash or being littered.

Californians want to reduce/eliminate the use of a product that is harmful to fish, birds, mammals, etc.

If the price difference of the two types of containers is 2:1, that difference would probably decrease significantly if cardboard containers are produced, purchased and distributed in much higher quantities than at present.

This issue is similar economically to using nuclear power. Yes, in the short run, it may seem cheaper per kilowatt hour to produce, but thats by ignoring economic externalities like figuring out how to safely dispose of the waste for thousands of years.

David Morrison

Del Cerro

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Letters and commentary policy

The U-T welcomes and encourages community dialogue on important public matters. Please visit this page for more details on our letters and commentaries policy. You can email letters@sduniontribune.com or leave a comment below.

Follow @UTLetters on Twitter and UTOpinion on Facebook.A new political news site called The California Republican is making headlines of its own in other outlets.

The site, which bills itself as a Media/News Company, captured peoples attention in California and the nation after Politico reported on Sunday that the person paying for it was Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Tulare, the chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence who has been in the news a lot lately because he led the charge to release a controversial GOP memo once labeled Top Secret.

A Twitter account calling itself The California Republican bristles at any suggestion that it is an alternative news site. Direct messages seeking comment from the Twitter account were not returned Monday.

That Twitter account, which has the same name of the site and its official Facebook page, @CARepublicancom, replied to Politicos story with a tweet that said, We are real news, POLITICO.

Its unclear whether the account is associated with the site or Nunes since it was created the day the Politico story emerged.

The site  whose domain is CARepublican.news, though earlier it was reported as CARepublican.com  curates stories from other news sources including the Los Angeles Times and The Fresno Bee. At the bottom of the site, a disclosure reads: Paid for by the Devin Nunes Campaign Committee  FEC #C00370056.

Registration information for CARepublican.com shows the site was created on June 1, 2017 by Alexander Tavlian out of Fresno, California. Nunes paid Tavlians communications company some $7,773 in July last year for advertising, digital advertising management, Politico reported. A Facebook Page for the site had at least 6,400 Likes on Monday morning.

A message posted on its Facebook Page said the site was down due to heavy traffic and an attack on its servers. On Monday, the site was operating under CARepublican.news, which was registered on Monday.

In one story titled Understanding the process behind #ReleaseTheMemo, which has no byline, the site purports to clear up questions about the memo by quoting excerpts from a National Review story.

Nunes, who is a supporter of President Donald Trump and worked on his transition team, has echoed Trumps criticism of the news media, calling it fake news.

After Politicos story surfaced Sunday, The California Republican was the talk of Twitter on Sunday and Monday as other high-profile state politicians continue to weigh in on the lawmakers venture into news media.

Nunes creation of a site that makes no secret of its partisan bias comes at a time news organizations are fending off rising levels of fake news criticism. Some  including Snopes managing editor Brooke Binkowski  called it political propaganda and others wondered whether this is legal under campaign finance rules.

Campaign spending by a political action committee to fund a public website is allowed under Federal Election Commission rules so long as the site discloses who is paying for the site.

When asked to comment about the existence of the site under Nunes campaign committee, a chief of staff for Nunes told Politico that until Politico retracts its multitude of fake stories on Congressman Nunes, we will not go on the record.

Have some thoughts to share?

Join me in a conversation: Shoot me a private email with your thoughts or ideas on a different approach to this story. As always, you can also send us a tweet.

Email: luis.gomez@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @RunGomez

Read The Conversation on Flipboard.

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On the anniversary of Abraham Lincolns birthday, try the cake Lincoln called the best in Kentucky.

Originally published in The Saturday Evening Post, February 16, 1957.

Every year when the 12th of February comes around, Dr. R. Gerald McMurtry, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, gets a special birthday cake which his wife, Florence, knows exactly how to bake for him. Its rather rich cake, containing whites of six eggs and a cup of chopped blanched almonds, with half a cup of candied pineapple and fine-chopped cherries poured into the icing. This isnt for Doctor McMurtrys birthday, however. Its for Abraham Lincolns. The recipe was handed down in the family of Mary Todd Lincoln. Mrs. McMurtry learned it from her husband, a cheery, mild-mannered man with a Kentucky drawl who, as it happens, is one of the worlds leading professional Lincoln scholars.

Subscribe and get unlimited access to our online magazine archive. Subscribe Today

Lincoln had a great sweet tooth, says McMurtry, who has honorary doctoral degrees from Centre College and Iowa Wesleyan. For instance, in 1841 he wrote a letter to Mary Speed, of Louisville, Kentucky, telling how he remembered delicious dishes of peaches and cream he used to get at her house. Otherwise, Lincoln was a spare eater.

Mary Todd Lincolns Recipe (with Mrs. McMurtrys baking hints in parentheses)

Mary Todd made this cake for Lincoln before their marriage, and he declared it the best in Kentucky.

1 cup butter

2 cups sugar

1 cup milk

3 cups flour (cake or pastry)

2 tsps. baking powder (double-acting)

1 tsp. vanilla

1 cup chopped blanched almonds

1/4 tsp. salt

6 egg whites

Cream butter and sugar lightly. Sift flour and baking powder together and add alternately with milk (to the first mixture). Add well-floured nuts, then vanilla. Fold in stiffly beaten whites of egg, to which salt has been added. Bake in three layers (9 or 8 pans) in moderate (350 F) oven. Ice with boiled icing, to which add 1/2 cup candied pineapple and cherries, chopped fine.Weekly Newsletter The best of The Saturday Evening Post in your inbox! Join

This article and other features about America in Vietnam can be found in the Posts Special Collectors Edition, The Heroes of Vietnam. This edition can be ordered here.

Originally published December 3, 1966.

Originally published in Fellowship magazine, Spring 2014

The path of return continues the journey.

Thich Nhat Hanh

Soon after graduating from Eastern Mennonite College in Harrisonburg, Virginia, I volunteered to do my Alternative Service as a conscientious objector  in Vietnam, working for the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) in the middle of the war zone, in the middle of the Vietnam War. I understood that as Mennonites we recognized no one as our enemy, and were called to use love and truth as our weapons in the struggle to build a just and peaceful world.

Our Mennonite vision of the world clashed sharply with the vision of our government. The U.S. government designated the North Vietnamese government and the guerrillas active in South Vietnam as the enemy. When I arrived in 1966, hundreds of thousands of U.S. military personnel were already deployed on the air, land, and sea in and around Vietnam.

I was sent to Tam Ky, a village in Quang Tin province in central Vietnam, about 100 miles south of the Demilitarized Zone. Two years before I arrived, the U.S. military had lost control of most of Quang Tin province. With the exception of Tam Ky and two other small towns near the coast along Route 1, the NLF controlled the province. The U.S. military strategy at the time was to drive the civilian population out of the areas controlled by the NLF and into the towns controlled by the U.S. military and the Saigon government. When I arrived in Tam Ky in late 1966, it was teeming with refugees.

My mission was to try to find what the refugees in Tam Ky needed and then help them to get it. To my surprise, the refugee families wanted most for their children to be able to read and write. I was teaching English in several of the high schools in Tam Ky while developing my Vietnamese language skills well enough to be able to do something more productive. It was obvious to me that I was ill-equipped to teach literacy in Vietnamese. If I were going to organize classes for these refugee children, I would need to find local Vietnamese to be the teachers. I was able to use contacts in the high schools to find students who would be willing to work as volunteer teachers for classes of refugee children, starting at first on weekends and summer vacations, and later expanding to full-year classes. The program was quite successful. By the end of my three years in Tam Ky, we had 90 high school students teaching over 3,000 refugee children how to read and write.

Tam Ky was in the middle of the I Corps Tactical Zone, the much-fought-over northernmost military section of South Vietnam. I remember the briefing given to me by the CIA when I first came to Tam Ky. The agent explained, You can go a kilometer east or a kilometer west of Tam Ky. Beyond that, you are in V.C. territory. We control Route 1 north and south of Tam Ky during the day, but at dusk, that also reverts to V.C. control. The U.S. government officials and military officers in Tam Ky all lived in heavily guarded military compounds with guard towers, encircling high walls topped with barbed concertina wire and protected by land mines.

I rented a small bungalow in the center of the village. It was just across the street from a high school where I taught. When I first moved in, my landlady told me, The National Liberation Front often takes over Tam Ky. I have only a four-foot wall around the house, but if you get yourself a few rolls of concertina, a sturdy steel gate, and a .50-caliber machine gun for the front yard, you should be able to hold off the NLF until the Marines can come and rescue you! I explained to her that Mennonites not only do not use weapons, we dont even set up defenses for ourselves. We try to trust God and live at peace with all peoples, I said. I did put up a sign with a peace dove, a cross, and the name of our organization in Vietnamese so people would know where I lived. But I never put a gate in that four-foot wall, and everyone knew that I owned no weapons.

My landlady told me, If you get yourself a few rolls of concertina, a sturdy steel gate, and a .50-caliber machine gun for the front yard, you should be able to hold off the NLF until the Marines can come and rescue you!

During my three years in Tam Ky, the NLF did take over the village about a dozen times. Usually the takeover would be for only an hour or so in the middle of a moonless night after a brief exchange of fire with the local Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) soldiers of the Saigon government. During the Tet Offensive in 1968, however, the NLF, likely with the help of some North Vietnamese soldiers, took over and stayed in Tam Ky for more than a week. It was always very frightening during a takeover. There would be a firefight in the street, and you could clearly hear the ARVN soldiers firing their U.S.-manufactured M-16 rifles and the NLF guerrillas firing their Russian-made AK-47 rifles. People in their homes would crawl into a bomb shelter if they had one, and if not, get on the floor and stay as low as possible. After some time, there were usually fewer shots from M-16s, and more from the AK-47s, and finally the M-16s would disappear completely, and we knew that the NLF was in control of the streets of Tam Ky. The NLF always attacked the military compounds where U.S. governmentrelated officials stayed: the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Military Advisory CommandVietnam headquarters, and the U.S. Embassy compound where three or four CIA agents lived. The MCC staff were the only Americans who chose not to live in a military compound, and although easily accessible, our house was never attacked.

It is fear that drives much violence. In combat, soldiers often kill out of fear of being killed. When a peacemaker renounces weapons, and even the ability to defend himself, it can diminish the fear that propels violence  yet volunteers in Vietnam knew that commitment to nonviolence was never a guarantee of safety. Three pacifists lost their lives during the Vietnam War: Daniel Gerber, a Mennonite, was abducted in Buon Ma Thuot, Vietnam, 1962, and never heard from again; Ted Studebaker, from the Church of the Brethren, was killed in Di Linh, 1971; and Rick Thompson, a Quaker, died in a plane crash in Quang Ngai, 1973. In the end we knew that our survival depended on common sense, careful planning, and Gods grace.

Despite my good intentions, and my attempt to make wise decisions on the best advice from my most trusted friends, I did feel vulnerable. I realized that I looked very American to most Vietnamese, and I was in the middle of a combat zone in the middle of an American-initiated, ill-fated war against the people of Vietnam. I was greatly thankful for Gods protection during my time in Tam Ky, and quite frankly, at the end of my three-year assignment, I felt relieved and a little guilty that I had survived a war in which so many friends had died.

Three years ago, one of the high school students who had been a teacher in my literacy program in Tam Ky emigrated to the U.S. He came to visit me in New York. We caught up on old friends, and he filled me in on what happened in Tam Ky when the war finally ended in 1975, six years after I had returned to the U.S. I learned of many mutual friends who had died, and others who had survived, during that long and difficult war. But perhaps the most surprising bit of information was this: I had had a guardian angel.

Le Dinh Sung, an artist who lived in Tam Ky, had been an advisor and my closest friend while I was there. I had been introduced to his younger sister and his mother, and I knew that his father had been killed by South Korean troops working with the U.S. military, but he had never mentioned a brother. When the war ended, neighbors discovered that Le Dinh Sungs older brother had been a high-level official in the NLF during the war. At wars end, he was given the top position in the new government of the province. When I learned this information from my former student, I realized that my closest friend in Tam Ky was probably in regular touch with his brother in the National Liberation Front, and that God may have had some help in protecting me when the NLF took over Tam Ky.

Postscript: As director of the Mennonite Central Committees United Nations office, the author returned to Vietnam in January 2013, invited as part of a group of U.S. anti-war activists to come to Hanoi to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Paris Peace Accords. While in Vietnam, he returned to Tam Ky. Le Dinh Sung had passed away by that time, but he reconnected with two of the artists children who are now grown and have children of their own.Rising Star

Freshman retailing major shares scholarship experience

Editor's note: Freshman retailing major Sydney Bernhardt visited New York City for the National Retail Federation Student Convention, thanks in part to winning a Rising Star Scholarship from the organization. She shares her experiences with us in her own words.

A few months ago, I was fortunate enough to receive the Rising Star Scholarship through the National Retail Federation. As a University of South Carolina student, I joined the student National Retail Federation where we learn information about the industry and more. The Rising Star Scholarship is given to one freshman or sophomore retail major each year, and the winner receives $1,500 to attend the National Retail Federation Student Convention in New York City.

I was ecstatic when I found out I won this scholarship. Since there were so many people who applied, I figured I wasnt going to win. After I read more about the scholarship, I realized that this was an opportunity of a lifetime. Even though the convention is mostly meant for juniors and seniors to get jobs, I knew this would be a great way to get my foot in the door with many well-known companies, such as Nordstrom, Dillards, Nike, Neiman Marcus, Google and Urban Outfitters, to name just a few.

Day 1

My mom and I packed our bags and traveled in style. We arrived at LaGuardia Airport in New York. As soon as I looked out the airplane window, I fell in love with the city.

Sydney Bernhardt says winning the National Retail Federation's Rising Star Scholarship and attending the NRF Student Convention in New York City was an opportunity of a lifetime.

After we checked into our hotel, we didnt want to waste any time. Off to Times Square we went. The city is truly beautiful. Immediately, we were thrown into the hustle and bustle. Luckily, it was about 50 degrees that day. We took a bus tour around the city and ended up in Soho. The shopping is unbelievable. Personally, I loved the character and architecture that filled Soho. My favorite shop was a local flea market of different art vendors. I am obsessed with handmade art, so this was a perfect fit for me.

Day 2

Friday was the first day of the National Retail Federation Student Convention. Everyone wore business attire in order to impress the different mentors from the more than 90 companies that were there.

As soon as I arrived, I was greeted with tons of great items from the different companies who sponsor National Retail Federation. My bag from Nordstrom was filled with cool gifts. I also received a specialty Under Armour Bag monogrammed with the hashtag they recommended us to use throughout the convention (#Retailsfuture). I felt strongly about this hashtag, because people my age are truly the future of retail. We are the new millennials, and our opinion is everything when it comes to the industry, not only as consumers but also as future producers.

Each speakers specific story on how they got where they are was incredible. I was honestly star struck when the CEO of Neiman Marcus took the stage. It was a surreal moment for me, and I knew this was the big start to my retail career.

After the convention, I went and walked the city more. Later that night I met one of my best friends, Alec, who is a fashion student at the Fashion Institute of Technology. He is truly my inspiration. We went to an amazing restaurant where I had the best steak. Catching up was great. I could totally see us working together down the line somewhere in the industry.

Day 3

This was such a humbling experience, because I never thought in a million years some of these companies could potentially want me to work for them down the line. So, so, so amazing! retailing freshman Sydney Bernhardt

Saturday was the last day of the convention, for me anyway. Sunday is only interviews for juniors and seniors.

In the morning, we listened to a few more speakers, and then we were off to the career fair to talk and network with all the companies. My personal favorite speaker was Lauren Berger, founder and CEO of InternQueen.com. She built her company from the ground up and had amazing advice to share on applying for and receiving internships, and on how to impress once you have one.

The most famous speaker at the convention was probably Daymond John from "Shark Tank." He is a successful entrepreneur himself, and he shared some great tips as well. He gave all the students a copy of his book, which includes success strategies for the business/retail industry.

During the middle of the day, we got to meet with eight different mentors and interact with them. They each told us their personal stories, their advice for us and some obstacles that they had to overcome over the years. My two favorite speakers were the representative from Dillards and Abby Lou Walker, CEO of Vivian Lou. I was extremely excited to receive their contact information to keep in touch.

During the mentor portion, I also got to interact with representatives from the San Francisco Museum of Art, Urban Outfitters, HBC Digital, Walmart and CallisonRTKL. They all helped drive home maybe the most important lesson of the trip: Networking is everything in the fashion industry.

As part of her trip to the National Retail Federation's annual student conference, freshman Sydney Bernhardt got to meet many of the folks who do the hiring for major retailers.

I ended up making contacts at companies who are interested in me. This was such a humbling experience, because I never thought in a million years some of these companies could potentially want me to work for them down the line. So, so, so amazing! The last part of the day was the career fair. This was slightly overwhelming considering I am only a freshman in a huge sea of juniors and seniors. I knew I wasnt going to land an internship, because large companies only allow older students to apply. However, this was unbelievably beneficial for me because I was able to network with numerous companies, introduce myself, give them my resume and keep their contact information.

Day 4

The last day of the trip we did not have much time, so we made sure to make the most of the time we had. We got up early and met Alec once again at the best bagel place I have ever been to in my entire life, Ess-a-Bagel.

After breakfast, we saw the 9/11 Memorial and museum. I must say, it was such a great experience, and I would recommend anyone who visits NYC to take time to go through the museum.

This trip was amazing. I wouldnt trade this experience for anything.

Share this Story! Let friends in your social network know what you are reading aboutSeveral escort ships with relatives and friends of the world travellers set out early in the morning to greet the ship on the Elbe with a celebratory fireworks reception, before berthing at Steinwerder.

AIDAcara stopped at Lisbon and Praia (Cape Verde) before heading first for South America. On October 31, 2017, the ship crossed the equator for the first time. Destinations called included Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Montevideo (Uruguay), Buenos Aires (Argentina), and Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego. Then onto San Antonio (Chile) and to Easter Island. From there, the cruise continued to Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Auckland (New Zealand), Sydney (Australia), the Great Barrier Reef, Bali and Singapore were further highlights. Altogether, AIDAcara traveled to 40 ports in 23 countries on five continents.

AIDAcara now starts a series of 14 and 15 day cruises to the North of Norway in February and March.

A second AIDA world cruise, this year on AIDAaura is due to depart from Hamburg in October 2018 and returning to the German port after 117-days sailing.The ship had left Sydney on Friday on a three-night cruise to nowhere and returned as scheduled on Monday.

On Sunday she came back into Sydney harbour for the transfer of the unruly passengers into a waiting police boat -- to the applause of other passengers lining the decks -- and immediately set sail again to resume the short-break cruise.

P&O Cruises asked the New South Wales Police Marine Area Command to attend Pacific Explorer to remove a group of people from the ship as a result of their behaviour on board overnight, a company statement said.

This is in line with our strict policy of zero tolerance of excessive behaviour that affects the safety, comfort and enjoyment of other guests.

While these occurrences are rare, we have no hesitation in taking strong action when necessary to adhere to this policy.

The police met the ship inside the harbour to conduct the transfer of the group.

We are assisting the police in their inquiries.The group will no longer be welcome to travel with P&O Cruises or any of its associated brands.But in step with the increase in traffic, the Beijing government "has become very strict" on matters of safety, security, and the environment, "putting big pressure on owners" the Greek Shipping Forum was told, 8 February.

"The rate of detentions is very high in China compared with the Paris and Tokyo Port State Control regimes," Terence Zhao, president of Singhai Marine Services, told the Capital Link forum. "The number of inspections being carried out is also much higher, with one ship in 10 inspected in some ports being detained," he said.

Zhao also warned the ships flag state is a big factr, rather the PSC records when it comes to inspections.

Last year, 6,707 ships were inspected, with 5,771 booked for deficiencies, "some 85%" he said. Of the inspected ships, 358 were detained, 5.23%, considerably higher than the Paris and Tokyo PSC detentions. Chinese inspectors found an average of 3.5 deficiencies per ship.

Zhao said detentions can lead to a ship being detained from one to 15 days, and sometimes longer.

There are some 55 ports with inspection centers in China, employing about 300 inspectors, many of them young and English speaking. And Zhao warned "owners should advise their crew to show respect towards them". Further, owners should take special attention to being prepared when they are sailing for China for as well as documentation and equipment inspections, part of the process is drills and indeed, the owners "should arrange special drill training for crew and officers prior to sailing to China.

However, Zhao had some better news, saying the Chinese authorities sometimes, are ready to listen to explanations, and in some cases reconsider their inspection findings.

Still, he warned that "because of the time differences between China and other parts of the world, for example six hours in the case of Greece, China's port state inspection regime can be an owners nightmare, as they are causing a lot of lost sleep".Press Release

February 12, 2018 Sen. Bam rallies Senate to support full, immediate implementation of free college Senator Bam Aquino enjoined his colleagues to push for the full and immediate implementation of Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act at the start of the second semester of school year 2017-18. "Let's push for the fulfillment of the free college law and relieve our students and their family members of financial burdens," said Sen. Bam, the principal sponsor and co-author of the free college law, during his sponsorship speech of Senate Resolution No. 620 that he filed recently. In Senate Resolution No. 620, Sen. Bam urged the Senate to express a united front in support of the full implementation of the free college law, in light of the announcement of a June 2018 implementation by Commission on Higher Education (CHED). "Students in public universities and colleges have the right to demand for the implementation of the free college law. Naisabatas at may pondo na ito," asserted Sen. Bam. According to the senator, representatives from both Houses of Congress expressly agreed on the legislative intent to implement it by November 2017 during the bicameral conference committee on Republic Act 10931. Sen. Bam also insisted that during the budget deliberation for Republic Act 10931, the CHED-UNIFAST declared to the members of the Senate that the P41 billion budget allocation was sufficient to cover the tuition and other fees in SUCs starting second semester of 2017-18. The commitment was contrary to the latest statement by CHED officer-in-charge Popoy de Vera that it plans to fully implement the law stating June 2018 for Academic Year 2018-19, with CHED still in the process of finalizing the law's implementing rules and regulations (IRR). "The non-issuance of IRR should not prevent the Executive faithfully executing the law. Ano pa ang hinihintay natin," Sen. Bam pointed out in his resolution. Sen. Bam believes that with RA 10931 now in effect and an approved budget to support its execution, there's no reason for CHED not to attend to its immediate implementation. After his speech, the Senate unanimously adopted Sen. Bam's resolution. The Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, principally sponsored by Sen. Bam, provides free tuition and miscellaneous fees to students in SUCs, local universities and colleges (LUCs) and TESDA-run vocational schools. Scholarship grants and student loans will also be made available to students of both public and private college and universities. The measure was languishing in the legislative mill for years before it was passed during Sen. Bam's time as chairman of the Committee on Education in the 17th Congress. This was Sen. Bam's 19th law in his four years as senator.Press Release

February 12, 2018 De Lima wants oversight panel on anti-child pornography convened Alarmed at the rising records of online sexual exploitation involving minors, Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has called for the immediate convening of the Congressional Oversight Committee on Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9775, also known as the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009. De Lima, a known anti-human trafficking advocate, said the oversight committee should look into the law's strict implementation and propose necessary remedial measures that will strengthen the country's fight against child abuse online. "The proliferation of child pornography in the country continues, and even worsens, in spite of existing laws penalizing such bestial acts," she said in the Senate Resolution (SR) No. 599 she filed. "It is important to determine what needs to be done to ensure that law enforcement agencies are able to keep up with the challenges posed by new and emerging technologies," she added. R.A No. 9775 was enacted to "guarantee the fundamental rights of every child from all forms of neglect, cruelty and other conditions prejudicial to his/her development and protect every child from all forms of exploitation and abuse," including the use of a child in explicit sexual activities. Last October, Senior Supt. Villamor Tuliao, chief of the anti-trafficking in persons division of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Women and Children Protection Center, noted with serious concern the rising incidents of online sex exploitation involving Filipino children. De Lima noted that the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), in its 2017 State of the World's Children Report, cited the intensifying risks caused by the digital age on childhood, such as "made-to-order" child sexual abuse material and live streaming of child sexual abuse, among others. "New technologies - like crypto-currencies and the Dark web - are fuelling live streaming of child sexual abuse and other harmful content, and challenging the ability of law enforcement to keep up," according to the 2017 UNICEF Report. The Senator from Bicol likewise expressed grave concern over UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake's revelation about the case of an 18-year-old Filipino girl who was allegedly "forced to perform live-stream sex acts by a neighbor who operates a child sexual abuse website." "Children and their parents should be aware of, and capacitated to guard against, the harms posed by the exposure of children to digital technology, including the dangers posed by the three main online risk categories," De Lima said, referring to the "Content, Contact and Conduct Risks" as categorized by the 2017 UNICEF report. According to UNICEF's 2017 State of the World's Children Report, the risks encountered online can now be categorized into three, including (1) Content Risks, "where a child is exposed to unwelcome and inappropriate content" (2) Contact Risks, "where a child participates in risky communication" and (3) Conduct Risks, "where a child behaves in a way that contributes to risky content or contact." In her resolution, De Lima said she believes that the Congressional Oversight Committee on R.A. 9775 is now in order to ensure that the private sector is effectively being tapped and motivated to help combat the online exploitation and abuse of children. "Obtaining participation from private sector, such as telecommunication companies, can be successful through the provision of adequate incentives and mechanisms to facilitate their cooperation, and penalties for their undue failure to assist and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in combating these heinous crimes," she said. De Lima's proposed SR No. 599 is just among her efforts to protect children from violence. Last year, she filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 1499, also known as the Online Child Safety Act, which requires commercial establishments and public institutions to use appropriate filtering devices that will restrict children's access to harmful materials online. The former justice secretary also filed SB No. 1348, which proposes to prohibit corporal punishment and all other forms of "humiliating and degrading" acts imposed on children and SB No. 195, which seeks to impose stiffer penalties on those who involve children in their criminal activities, last year.Press Release

February 12, 2018 CHIZ WANTS GOV'T TO CRAFT LABOR MIGRATION POLICY, TAP NEW MARKET FOR OFWS Senator Chiz Escudero underscored the need for the Philippine government to craft a comprehensive labor policy and tap countries that will protect overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from maltreatment and abuse once they are employed. This was after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered a total ban on the deployment of OFWs to Kuwait following the death of a Filipina domestic worker, whose body was found in a freezer in the Gulf state. Last month, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) already suspended the deployment of OFWs to Kuwait following the deaths of seven Filipino workers, mostly household service workers, in the oil-rich state. According to Escudero, a comprehensive labor migration policy for OFWs should be put in place to prevent maltreatment and abuse, especially among Filipino domestic workers who are most vulnerable to maltreatment, sexual abuse and exploitation. The government should also address the common complaints of OFWs such as labor malpractice, non-payment of overtime, poor accommodation, discrepancies, in wages and repatriation in cases of crisis, and other health and safety issues, Escudero said. "OFW cash remittances boost our economy and I think the best way to repay them is to ensure that they would be safe and properly compensated in the countries where they would be deployed," Escudero said. According to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, OFW cash remittances from January to November 2017 amounted to $25.3 billion. Escudero also added that apart from the country's total OFW deployment ban to Kuwait, the Philippine government should go after abusive employers and hold them accountable. "Hindi dapat tumigil sa simpleng ban lamang o pagpapauwi, dapat panagutin din ang mga Kuwaiti nationals na gumagawa nyan sa ating mga kababayan at nais kong marinig ang gagawing aksyon ng Kuwaiti government, kung meron man, sa bagay na iyon," Escudero said. Escudero also said there should be bilateral talks between the Philippines and Kuwait to seek justice for the victims' families. "Kaya nga hinihiling ko na magkaroon ng pag-uusap atsettlement ang gobyerno natin at ang Kuwaiti government kung paano ito iha-handle at paano mapapanagot yung mga gumawa niyan at paano maiiwasang mangyari ito muli sa sinumang made-deploy muli kung bubuksan ito muli ng Pangulo," Escudero said. According to the Foreign Undersecretary Sarah Lou Arriola, out of the 260,000 OFWs deployed to Kuwait, 170,000 of them are domestic workers.Press Release

February 12, 2018 Gatchalian seeks help from DepEd on Dengvaxia panic Senator Win Gatchalian is calling on the Department on Education (DepEd) to create a circular that will mandate all public schools to initiate a program to identify and monitor students who were immunized with Dengvaxia. The government has already stopped the school and community-based anti-dengue immunization program jointly instituted by the Department of Health (DoH), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and DepEd after the manufacturer of the vaccine, Sanofi Pasteur, announced the possible negative effect on children who did not have dengue prior to vaccination. Those who were immunized were Filipino children between nine to eighteen years of age. "Teachers and administrative leaders of all schools involved should join forces in creating a database of students who were immunized by Dengvaxia. Students who are showing symptoms of dengue should immediately be brought to the doctor to prevent future complications," said Gatchalian, a member of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. The vaccine has caused a nationwide panic after the deaths of 14 children were alleged to be linked to Dengvaxia. However, there are still no conclusive findings that would directly link the vaccine to the deaths. This led Sanofi Pasteur to deny the request of DoH for a full refund for the used vaccines and support for an indemnification fund. The senator stressed that despite the lack of conclusive findings, Sanofi Pasteur and DoH officials from the Aquino administration are not yet out of the woods. "The investigation is still not over. Due to the complex medical science and emerging technologies involved in studying the long-term effects of the vaccine on program vaccine, it will take a while before the truth really comes out. We can't blame parents for worrying about the health and safety of their children," he said. "In the meantime, if DepEd will mandate the monitoring of students who were immunized, it will surely help put parents at ease," he added.Press Release

February 12, 2018 DepEd supports Gatchalian's fight against human trafficking Senator Win Gatchalian expressed his gratitude to the Department of Education (DepEd) for throwing its full support behind his measure, the Human Trafficking Preventive Education Program Act (Senate Bill No. 992), which aims to protect the youth from becomes victims of human trafficking. "Although everyone is focused on the fight against drugs, human trafficking remains a real and present problem of our country. That is why we propose to institutionalize this fight, to make it more extensive without adding so much burden to the schools," he said. The bill seeks to create a comprehensive Human Trafficking Preventive Program that aims to inculcate among the youth their fundamental rights as persons, educate them on the dangers of human trafficking in its various forms, and arm them with information on the services made available by the government and other non-government organizations to protect them from human trafficking. The program shall be established by the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, which will implement the program through school-based and community-based tracks. During a hearing of the Senate Committee on Youth chaired by Senator Joel Villanueva, DepEd Undersecretary Tonisito Umali lauded Gatchalian's bill as it institutionalizes and further strengthens the agency's Child Protection Policy (or DepEd Order No. 40, series of 2012). "Hopefully this [bill] would become a law. It will now become a mandate that cannot be changed by any administration who may ever sit to head our department," Umali said. Gatchalian, a former local executive, narrated his previous encounters with victims of human trafficking activities who fell prey to syndicates due their innocence and lack of guidance, while there were also those who willingly chose to engage in dangerous activities out of a desperate need to support their families. "Human trafficking is a silent crime that victimizes our students, primarily because of poverty. With the power of social media, more people as young as 15 years old are even enticed to get involved in crimes like prostitution and forced labor. That's what we want to prevent - that they become willing victims of human trafficking," he said.Press Release

February 12, 2018 HONTIVEROS: DUTERTE INCRIMINATES HIMSELF BY ADMITTING THAT HE'S A DICTATOR President Rodrigo Duterte may have incriminated himself on criminal charges filed against him before an international tribunal. This was the observation made by Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros on the President's recent statement admitting that he is a dictator. Hontiveros said that Duterte's remark came amid the International Criminal Court's (ICC) decision to conduct a preliminary examination into crimes against humanity charges against him over deaths in his bloody war on drugs. "Duterte just made the ICC's job simpler" "I am sure that the ICC is taking due notice of the President's latest statement, especially as it conducts its preliminary examination into his alleged crimes. The ICC was created precisely to prosecute those who have committed crimes against humanity, many of whom were dictators. By admitting that he is a dictator, voluntarily and without pressure from anyone, President Duterte just made the ICC's job simpler. The international court will now refer to his public admission, together with his other documented undemocratic practices, as proof of his utter disregard for democracy and human rights that resulted in colossal abuses in our country," Hontiveros said. "Pronouncements and actions in the past" The Senator explained that even before Duterte's latest statement, the Chief Executive already made numerous pronouncements and actions in the past that pointed to his possible guilt in the crimes that he is being accused of. She cited the President's public order to the police to kill all drug dependents, how he likened his drug war to the Holocaust and his decision to reinstate and even promote the police personnel who murdered Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa, as some examples. It was reported that the Senate and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) both concluded that the death of Espinosa is a case of extrajudicial killing. "A fish is caught by its mouth" "A fish is caught by its mouth and a foul man by his deeds. President Duterte is the best witness against himself. Through his words and deeds, he has repeatedly exposed himself to the charge of crimes lodged against him. I am confident that the ICC has documented all of these," Hontiveros said. Meanwhile, Hontiveros asked the Philippine government to recognize the ICC processes and accord them due respect. "The Philippines is a state party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. It is also part of a global community joined by the shared respect for democracy, human rights and dignity. We have an obligation to subject our public policies and even our leaders to scrutiny, in the same way that we may hold accountable the actions of other nation-states," she said. It was reported that Duterte admitted to imposing a "dictatorial" style of governance. Speaking before a gathering of former communist rebels, Duterte said he prefers to be a "dictator" to be able to sustain the country's progress. "If you say dictator, I am really a dictator. If I don't act (like a) dictator, son of a b****, nothing will happen to this country," the President said in Visayan.Press Release

February 12, 2018 Senate passes Lacson-sponsored anti-hazing bill The Senate approved today on third and final reading a bill seeking to completely ban hazing as a pre-requisite for admission into a membership of a fraternity, sorority or organization. Senate Bill No. 1662, or the act amending Republic Act No. 8049 to strengthen the law on hazing and regulate other forms of initiation rites of fraternities, sororities and other organizations, was approved with 19 affirmative votes, zero negative vote and no abstention. The measure, sponsored by Sen. Panfilo Lacson - who chairs the Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs that investigated the hazing death of law student Horacio Castillo III - was introduced by Senators Gregorio Honasan II, Sherwin Gatchalian, Loren Legarda, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aquino IV, Joel Villanueva, Cynthia Villar and Senate Minority Leader Vicente "Tito" Sotto III. The bill was co-sponsored by Zubiri and Gatchalian. Lacson noted the proposed legislation seeks to ban all forms of hazing in school fraternities, sororities and organizations as well as those in the community or other associations, including those in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) and other similar uniformed service learning institutions. The bill defines hazing as any physical or psychological suffering, harm or injury inflicted on a recruit, member, neophyte or applicant for admission or continuing membership into the fraternity, sorority or organization. Lacson said the measure expanded the coverage of hazing to include paddling, whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of food, liquor, beverage, drug and other substance as well as any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which would likely adverse the physical and psychological health of the recruit, member, neophyte or applicant. Under the existing law, hazing is allowed as an initiation rite and can be practiced if there is a written notice addressed to the school seven days prior to the event. The notice should give details as to the duration of the initiation rite, the names of those undergoing the initiation rites and an undertaking that no physical violence would be employed. The existing law requires the school to provide at least two representatives to ensure that no physical violence shall be employed on those undergoing hazing. Lacson said the proposed legislation would require fraternities, sororities and organizations to submit and post a written application to the proper school authorities of their initiation rite detailing the activity not later than seven days prior of the scheduled date. In addition, he said, the school representatives should monitor, record and report that no hazing had been conducted in the initiation rite. The bill also requires the appointment and identification of advisers, who will be presumed to have knowledge and consent to the commission on any unlawful act in the violation of the Anti-Hazing Law," Lacson explained. Also, persons who had knowledge of any hazing acts but failed to report it to the authorities or those found guilty of concealing or hampering or obstructing lawful investigation by the authorities would be penalized under the bill. "Hazing needs to stop now. Awareness must be raised as to the fact that there is no unity, no brotherhood, no strength, no honor and no respect in hazing.. It is merely violence and abuse," Lacson stressed. Under the proposed legislation, officers and members of a fraternity, sorority or organization who participated in the hazing would suffer the penalty of reclusion temporal and would be fined P1 million. On the other hand, members of the fraternity, sorority or organization who participated in the hazing under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs would be fined P2 million and would suffer the penalty of reclusion perpetua. The same penalty would be imposed on non-resident or alumni members of the fraternity, sorority or organization who actually participated in the hazing. The penalty of reclusion perpetua would likewise be imposed, together with a fine of P3 million, upon persons who actually participated in hazing if the same results in death, rape, sodomy or mutilation. The school would also be held liable if officials would fail to prevent hazing from occurring during initiation rites and be fined P1 million, according to the bill. Under the bill, the penalty of prison correccional in its minimum period would be imposed on any person who would intimidate, threaten, force or employ or administer any form of vexation against another person for the purpose of recruitment in joining or promoting a particular fraternity, sorority or organization. A persistent and repeated invitation made to a person who had twice refused to participate would be considered as vexation. The owner of the place where hazing would be conducted would be held liable as an accomplice, the bill said. School authorities, including faculty members who consented to the hazing or had actual knowledge of it, as well as barangay, municipal or city officials would also be held liable as an accomplice and be administratively charged. Former officers, non-resident members or alumni of the fraternity who would hide, conceal, hamper or obstruct any investigation would face imprisonment of four to six years and be fined P1 million. They would also be subjected to a disciplinary proceedings by the Supreme Court or by their respective professional boards, the bill said. The incumbent officers of the fraternity, sorority or organization would be held jointly liable with those members who actually participated in the hazing, the bill added. Lastly, the judgement of the final conviction of a person convicted of the crime of hazing would be reflected in his scholastic record, personal or employment record, the bill said. In his amendment, Senator Richard Gordon proposed that the suspension or revocation of the professional license be not more than three years. The license may be reinstated as a member of their respective professional boards upon submission of affidavits from at least three disinterested persons, good moral certifications from different unaffiliated and credible government, religious and social civic organizations showing that they had become morally fit for readmission into the profession. "This bill changes the central paradiem of the law - instead of regulating hazing, it will completely prohibit all forms of hazing, once and for all," Gatchalian said. "I thank the chairman for including a clearer definition of the 'act of hazing' and most importantly, for adding a provision that penalizes former officers, non-resident members or alumni of the fraternity, sorority or organization who perform any act to hide, conceal or otherwise hamper or obstruct any or all investigations that will be conducted after the commission of the crime," Zubiri added. He said the bill would "bequeath a meaningful life to the Filipino youth in memory of Atio Castillo's death" and other hazing victims. (PM)Press Release

February 12, 2018 Senate approves abolition of Road Board The Senate today approved on third and final reading a bill that would abolish the Road Board and transfer the management of the road user's tax to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), as part of efforts to streamline government bureaucracy and improve delivery of services to commuters. Senate Bill No. 1620 was authored and sponsored by Senator Manny Pacquiao, chair of the Senate Committee on Public Works, and was passed with 18 affirmative votes, zero negative vote and no abstention. "It is high time to abolish the Road Board to further right-size the government and appropriate the agency's funds directly to the implementing agencies, the DPWH and the DOTr, to best deliver the services to which the road user's tax is rightfully allocated, as prescribed by law," Pacquiao said. Apart from Pacquiao, SBN 1620 was co-authored by Senate President Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III, along with Senators Juan Miguel Zubiri, Joseph Victor Ejercito, and Sherwin Gatchalian, who is also the bill's co-sponsor. Pacquiao said that bill, once approved, would effectively abolish the Road Board created under Republic Act (RA) 8794, and would affect "the manner in which the collection of monies from all motor vehicle owners and its distribution would be carried out." Created under the existing RA 8974, the Road Board was mandated to "implement the prudent and efficient management and utilization of special funds," including the Motor Vehicle User's Charge (MVUC) collected under the said law. Pacquiao said that under the new bill, the management of the said funds would now be transferred to the DPWH and the DOTr, and that all funds collected under the existing law "should be deposited to special trust accounts in the national treasury." "One major difference between the old law and this proposed legislation is the distribution of collected funds into these special trust accounts. We deem it proper to highlight the need to support local and city roads," he said. Under the proposed bill, MVUC collections would be distributed under the following funds: Special Road Support Fund (80%), the Special Local Road Fund (5%), the Special Road Safety Fund (7.5%) and the Special Vehicle Pollution Control Fund (7.5%). "The Special Road Support Fund, the Special Local Road Fund and the Special Road Safety Fund will be under the DPWH while the Special Vehicle Pollution Control Fund will be under the DOTr," he added. According to Pacquiao, the bill would also require the DPWH and DOTr to submit annually a report on the utilization of the MVUC, "provided that there shall be pre-audit and post-audit rules for the prevention, improper application, and disallowance of illegal, irregular, extravagant, excessive, unconscionable and unnecessary use of the MVUC." He added that while the bill would mandate that the existing workers of the Road Board Secretariat be absorbed by the DPWH, the DPWH and the DOTr are proscribed from creating a new such secretariat, "and may only be assisted by a minimal number of staff in their administration and implementation of this act." Pacquiao said that the reforms under the act are meant to address issues surrounding the Road Board, which "had become a source of corruption." "Past COA reports exposed the illegal utilization of Road User's tax or the collection from the motor vehicle user's charge. The MVUC collection from 2001 and 2014 was estimated at P112.5 billion. However, this figure that should have been fully enjoyed by the taxpayers ended up being allocated elsewhere. This is a big anomaly," he said. "The need to revisit the function of the Road Board is highly necessary, not just because it has become obsolete overtime but it has been a source of graft and corruption in the government," he said. (JC)Press Release

February 12, 2018 If they were a company, P40 B remittance of Pinoys in Kuwait puts them in Top 40 The quarter of a million Filipinos in Kuwait sent home P40.6 billion last year, an amount which, if they were a company, would have ranked them the Philippines' 37th biggest in terms of gross revenues, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said. If you add up their remittances over the past three years, the total would be about P112.7 billion, using current peso-US dollar exchange, Recto said. "This financial contribution to their homeland makes them deserving of government care, whether repatriation or legal help if they are still there, and employment and livelihood assistance once they are home for good," Recto said. "Yung remittances ng mga OFW sa Kuwait noong 2016, mas malaki kaysa sa gross revenues ng Ayala Land, Procter and Gamble Philippines at Mitsubishi Motors Philippines in 2015. Doble ng gross revenues ng Honda Philippines, Megaworld, Robinsons Land at McDonalds during the same year," Recto said. "Mas malaki ang remittance nila kaysa sa binayarang income tax ng lahat ng mga pulis, o lahat ng mga guro at kawani ng lahat ng state colleges and universities," he added. "What they sent last year is 40 times bigger than the government's P1 billion OFW assist fund for the whole of 2018," Recto said, referring to the Assistance to Nationals Fund that the Department of Foreign Affairs taps in aiding expatriate Filipinos in distress. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas data showed that cash remittance of Filipinos in Kuwait reached $735.23 million for the period of January to November 2017. Recto's forecast is that the full year figure "will be about $805.8 million." It was $856.7 million in 2016, up from $617.6 million in 2015. The three year total, using peso-dollar exchange average in those years, is P105 billion, Recto said. "Hindi barya-barya ang ipinapadala nila sa atin. It helps keep our economy afloat. Pawis, luha at dugo ang puhunan nila. We are under obligation to reciprocate this sacrifice with prompt care," Recto said. There were 241,291 documented Filipinos in Kuwait as June 2017, but their total is 252,203 due to an estimated 10,912 undocumented Filipinos, Recto said, citing the January to June 2017 report to the Senate by the DFA on the status of Filipinos worldwide. The report noted that 54 Filipinos - 27 male, 27 female - were in jail for various offenses, with two, a male and a female, on death row. The Philippine Embassy in Kuwait also monitored 129 Filipinos awaiting deportation during said period.Press Release

February 12, 2018 2.5 M tons of rice lost to poor postharvest, enough to feed 14 M Pinoys About 17 percent of palay harvest is lost to absent or poor post-harvest facilities and practices yearly, resulting in a wastage of about two and a half million metric tons of rice--enough to meet the annual rice needs of Metro Manila, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said. The theory is that if we are able to save even one-third of palay post-harvest losses, there will be no need to import rice, Recto said. Rice lost to poor palay harvesting, threshing, drying and milling could feed more than 14 million Filipinos annually, Recto said, using last year's harvest data and the 107.8 kilos yearly per capita consumption of rice. A 2010 government study said 4.3% percent of palay harvest is wasted during harvest, and 5.5% percent during milling. Other causes are drying (5.9%), and storage (0.8%). If this ratio still exists, then about 3.8 million metric tons of palay were spoiled during the processing chain of harvest to storage, Recto said. Government reported that national palay yield reached 19.28 million metric tons in 2017, up by 9.4% percent from the previous year. Paddy harvest is measured in terms of unhusked palay. When milled, a kilo of palay yields about 650 grams of rice. Recto said it is the government's duty to see to it that the produce of rice farmers, who labor in one of the hardest professions, is not wasted. "I think Secretary Manny Pinol and the whole Department of Agriculture should be given a higher budget for post-harvest facilities and programs," Recto said. "Ang palay na nasasayang ay dapat nasasaing. Agriculture, which is where millions of poor are, should be included in the government's infrastructure drive. Our farmers can only plant, plant, plant if we build, build, build more farm facilities like irrigation," Recto said. The 2018 budget of Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization is a mere P344 million, of which P125 million is for capital outlays, which, Recto said "is like one grain of palay in a whole sack of government spending." "Sabi nga ng commercial: hanggang saan aabot ang P125 million mo sa panahong ito? If we divide P125 million with the hectares of rice land, then average spending is less than P26 per hectare, not just for post-harvest, but also for mechanization," Recto said.Blog Archive September 2021 (5) August 2021 (8) July 2021 (9) June 2021 (4) May 2021 (12) April 2021 (14) March 2021 (18) February 2021 (16) January 2021 (20) December 2020 (17) November 2020 (12) October 2020 (16) September 2020 (13) August 2020 (16) July 2020 (11) June 2020 (3) May 2020 (13) April 2020 (9) March 2020 (17) February 2020 (17) January 2020 (17) December 2019 (19) November 2019 (22) October 2019 (27) September 2019 (23) August 2019 (20) July 2019 (23) June 2019 (24) May 2019 (22) April 2019 (26) March 2019 (22) February 2019 (20) January 2019 (21) December 2018 (26) November 2018 (19) October 2018 (26) September 2018 (24) August 2018 (22) July 2018 (28) June 2018 (23) May 2018 (23) April 2018 (25) March 2018 (24) February 2018 (21) January 2018 (29) December 2017 (26) November 2017 (21) October 2017 (24) September 2017 (23) August 2017 (25) July 2017 (27) June 2017 (25) May 2017 (23) April 2017 (20) March 2017 (20) February 2017 (21) January 2017 (22) December 2016 (23) November 2016 (21) October 2016 (21) September 2016 (21) August 2016 (22) July 2016 (24) June 2016 (26) May 2016 (26) April 2016 (27) March 2016 (29) February 2016 (25) January 2016 (26) December 2015 (28) November 2015 (27) October 2015 (29) September 2015 (23) August 2015 (25) July 2015 (19) June 2015 (17) May 2015 (15) April 2015 (19) March 2015 (19) February 2015 (16) January 2015 (21) December 2014 (16) November 2014 (20) October 2014 (22) September 2014 (20) August 2014 (24) July 2014 (27) June 2014 (26) May 2014 (27) April 2014 (20) March 2014 (25) February 2014 (19) January 2014 (23) December 2013 (24) November 2013 (19) October 2013 (22) September 2013 (20) August 2013 (21) July 2013 (17) June 2013 (16) May 2013 (14) April 2013 (19) March 2013 (16) February 2013 (12) January 2013 (14) December 2012 (20) November 2012 (17) October 2012 (14) September 2012 (14) August 2012 (20) July 2012 (15) June 2012 (15) May 2012 (17) April 2012 (16) March 2012 (6) February 2012 (7) January 2012 (6) December 2011 (12) November 2011 (14) October 2011 (16) September 2011 (9) August 2011 (12) July 2011 (8) June 2011 (11) May 2011 (11) April 2011 (11) March 2011 (10) February 2011 (12) January 2011 (17) December 2010 (16) November 2010 (10) October 2010 (21) September 2010 (21) August 2010 (24) July 2010 (36) June 2010 (19) May 2010 (14) April 2010 (15) March 2010 (13) February 2010 (6) January 2010 (3)Auckland-based insurer Tower said recent storms will have a financial impact of about $5 million after tax.

The company said it received about 300 claims as a result of the New Year storms, and estimates that will cost it between $1.4 million and $1.8 million after tax. It has received 150 claims as a result of ex-cyclone Fehi, which hit the South Island earlier this month, and says the financial impact of those will be between $2.2 million and $3.2 million after tax.

Tower said it is too soon to know the extent of the damage done by Cyclone Gita, which hit Tonga last night having already passed through Samoa and American Samoa and may yet impact Fiji.

However, the insurer said it has a non-catastrophe reinsurance program meaning it absorbs the first $7 million of before-tax losses and reinsurance then covers the next $10 million, up to $5 million per event.

"Weather events in New Zealand may have already reached $7 million," Tower said. "Should damage from Tropical Cyclone Gita exceed $5 million, Tower may be exposed to a further $3.5 million after tax, prior to catastrophe cover commencing. Tower retains full catastrophe cover of $798 million, plus appropriate back-up cover."

The shares last traded at 65 cents, down 28 percent from a year earlier. The stock pulled back sharply last year after the Commerce Commission declined a proposed merger with major insurer Vero New Zealand in July. A High Court appeal of that decision was scheduled to begin early this year but this was abandoned.

(BusinessDesk)

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Internet entrepreneur Kim Dotcom's extradition case reached the Court of Appeal this morning, as Dotcom and his three co-accused continue to fight attempts to remove them to the United States.

Last February, High Court Justice Murray Gilbert upheld a decision by the District Court that there were grounds for Dotcom, Mathias Ortmann, Bram van der Kolk and Finn Batato to be extradited.

The US claims Ortmann, van der Kolk, Dotcom and Batato and others were members of a worldwide criminal organisation that engaged in criminal copyright infringement and money laundering on a massive scale with estimated loss to copyright holders well in excess of US$500 million. The case has been touted as one of the largest criminal copyright cases ever brought by the US.

It is seeking to extradite the four on 13 charges, including allegations of conspiracy to commit racketeering, copyright infringement, money laundering and wire fraud, among others relating to his now-defunct file-sharing business Megaupload.

In the appeal court this morning, Grant Illingworth QC, lawyer for Ortmann and van der Kolk, stressed the argument that there must be double criminality for an extradition to be ordered - that is, that the alleged conduct must be a crime in both New Zealand and the country which is seeking to extradite.

Illingworth argued that "in a sense" there is a triple criminality condition on extradition, in that the conduct must be covered by the treaty between the two countries. The courts had taken an incorrect approach in the 2003 extradition case of the United States v Cullinane, before which he said the Extradition Act had been interpreted as requiring a three-stage test to establish grounds for extradition.

"In Cullinane, that became one single issue - 'is it covered by the treaty' - and we say that's an incorrect approach."

Illingworth said the lawyers for the four men would challenge the validity of the notice sent from the Minister of Justice to the District Court judge to notify the judge of the extradition request and ask the judge to issue an arrest warrant.

"If that notice is not valid, if it has been procured by misleading conduct, for example a breach of the obligations of the ex parte application, that can call into question the jurisdiction of the court as a whole," Illingworth said.

Justice Forrest Miller told the QC that even if that argument is successful, the High Court judgment had found that there was a prima facie case "with bells on".

"The difficulty that you face here ultimately is whether the judicial process that has been followed in both of the courts below was meaningful, to use the Canadian standard," Miller said. "You're going to have to persuade us that what Justice Gilbert ended up with, even assuming your interpretation of the legislation is correct, was wrong."

Illingworth said the lawyers accept that challenge, and the US started by relying on a "host of different articles" to argue for extradition, so they must deal with the various pathways to extradition one set at a time.

The Court of Appeal judges also confirmed with Illingworth that, due to the doctrine of specialty, the court can order the extradition based on some of the charges but not all, and the US courts would only be able to try the men on those allowed charges - for example, extradition could be allowed for copyright infringement but not for racketeering.

Dotcom has had permanent residence in New Zealand since 2010 after moving from Hong Kong. In early 2012, his rented mansion in Coatesville, Auckland was the subject of a dramatic raid by New Zealand police, executing warrants issued by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation. Numerous court actions proceeded from there as Dotcom and his co-accused fought extradition.

In 2014, Dotcom formed the Internet Party to contest the New Zealand general election that year, forming a coalition with the left-wing Mana Party in a marriage of political convenience that backfired on both parties, neither of which gained parliamentary representation. His marriage subsequently dissolved, he left the mansion for a central city apartment and has kept a lower profile since.

The case is set down to run for two-and-a-half weeks.

(BusinessDesk)

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Gayatri review: Mohan Babu steals the show

A regular father-daughter sentiment drama

Source: SIFY By: TELUGUCINEMA.COM Critic's Rating: 3/5 Monday 12 February 2018

Movie Title Gayatri review: Mohan Babu steals the show Director Madan Ramigani

Star Cast Mohan Babu, Manchu Vishnu, Shriya Saran

Sivaji (Mohan Babu) is searching for his missing daughter. He runs an orphanage and also steps into the jail to stay for few days in the place of convicted rich criminals. As he is a stage actor who can easily slip into the get up of any person, he takes up this work for some quick big bucks. When luck brings him to be in touch with his daughter Shruti (Nikhila Vimal), he gets kidnapped by a criminal politician Gayatri Patel (Mohan Babu) demanding to act like him for 14 days in prison. What happens next, why has Gayatri Patel has chosen Sivaji?

For a seasoned actor like Mohan Babu who had done more than 550 movies, the story of a human chameleon who slips into body double of any person is an apt one. A dream role for any actor certainly. To showcase versatility!

The story has meat  an actor turning into the character of powerful and rich convicted criminals for money. An interesting premise, indeed.

Although the story is credited to Telugu writer Diamond Rathnababu in titles, it is actually based on a Bangladeshi movie Aynabaji (2016). Writer Diamond Rathna Babu and director Madan have not changed the basic plot of Amitabh Reza's directorial debut Aynabaji but they have changed the focus of the story. In the Telugu version, father-daughter sentiment supersedes the main thread.

Also, the gender of the reporters role is turned from male to female (in the original it was played by a male character, here Anasuya has done the role).

Instead of delving more on the novelty factor of the story  actor impersonating convicted criminals, the director has put the camera lens on the regular and oft-seen father-daughter sentiment scenes. Like the cliched sentiment thread, the narration is too weak and regular. The scenes that the writer and director have written also are very routine. In the entire first half, we get to see peripheral aspects of the plotline. The movie only comes into the groove in the penultimate sequence.

Pad Man review: Akshay shines in this public service film | Savarakathi review: A warm and welcoming film | Boy and the World review: A vibrant and dazzling marvel | Inttelligent review: Doesn't have a single sequence that can be appreciated | Kalakalappu-2 review: Will take you to a happy zone | Tholi Prema review: A romantic comedy with catchy music

Much of the movie doesnt excite as the narration is too weak and is told in a slow-paced way. But it showcases Mohan Babu, the veteran performers histrionics well. His performance is the main highlight of this predictable sentiment movie.

Though the runtime is 2 hours 5 minutes, the slow-pace makes it seem lengthier. A lot of unnecessary sequences are added for the sake of runtime.

The veteran actor once again excels in the two roles. In particular, he is at his best in the character of Gayatri Patel. Vishnu and Shriya appear in a flashback episode. Vishnu as younger Mohan Babu is suited well. Shriya gives matured performance. Anasuya is okay. Sathyam Rajeshs catchphrase Jyothi is not convincing. Alis comedy is outdated. Prudhvi as a politician is okay.

The film has some politically loaded dialogues here and there. Mohan Babu takes potshots at AP government and the current politicians.

Watch the triler here:



Songs by Thaman are melodious. Nuvvu Nenu is very catchy. Technical and production standards are good but editing is not good. Writer-turned Madan has shown his mark in the handling of sentiment scenes but he resorts to old-school drive.

Gayatri is regular father-daughter sentiment drama told in an old-fashioned manner but Mohan Babus performance in the dual role the is the highlight. This plot needed better handling (direction) and speed pace.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The men who authorities said robbed two hotels on Staten Island two years ago will soon have new living arrangements themselves.

Marc Luna, 25, and Angel Santiago, 24, have each pleaded guilty in Brooklyn federal court to robbery, robbery conspiracy and possessing and brandishing firearms during a crime of violence, stemming from the heists, court records show.

Authorities said Luna and Santiago held up the Hylan Inn at 1274 Hylan Blvd. in Grasmere and the Ramada Inn at 535 N. Gannon Avenue in Willowbrook. The defendants also attempted to stick up the West Shore Motor Lodge at 2600 Veterans Road West in Charleston, said court papers.

The Hylan Inn heist occurred on July 30, 2016, and the other two on Aug. 5 of that year, according to the indictment.



According to Advance reports, two men allegedly robbed the Ramada Inn at around 6 a.m., then bolted on foot. One suspect was armed with a gun, a police spokesman said at the time.



An attempted armed robbery also was reported at the West Shore Motor Lodge a few hours earlier, at around 4 a.m., police said.



The suspects allegedly confronted the desk clerk at the motel, police said then.

According to Advance reports, the clerk said the two men ran into the check-in area and held up a gun to the bulletproof office glass.

The suspects then tried to open the door to the office but couldn't, because it was bolted shut.



"They said, 'Open the [expletive] door.' I told them to get the [expletive] out of here," said the employee.



The defendants left empty-handed. The incident was over within seconds, the clerk said.

In pleading guilty, the defendants admitted to brandishing a gun in the Hylan Inn stickup and stealing cash.

Luna is scheduled to be sentenced on April 26; Santiago's sentencing date wasn't immediately available.

The defendants potentially face stiff prison time of up to 20 years behind bars.NEW YORK CITY -- New York corruption trial star witness Todd Howe is due to return to the stand some time this week after his arrest Thursday.

Over the weekend, the defense reported a lead attorney is sick and asked the judge to delay testimony while he recovers.

The trial against former Huguenot resident Joseph Percoco -- former top governor's aide -- and three businessmen, including Steven Aiello and Joseph Gerardi of Syracuse's Cor Development Co., is headed into its fourth week.

On Howe's fourth day of testimony Thursday, defense lawyer Dan Gitner had him admitting on the witness stand that he attempted to defraud his credit card company while he was under a cooperation agreement with prosecutors. The agreement barred him from committing more crimes or lying.

After Howe's admission, prosecutors had him arrested and asked that his bail be revoked. He is now being held in custody.

Gitner was in the middle of his cross-examination of Howe when the court recessed Thursday evening. Over the weekend, Gitner reported he was ill, and asked U.S. District Court Judge Valerie Caproni to adjourn the trial until Wednesday.

Court will convene today for the judge to consider the schedule and other requests by the lawyers. The prosecutors has asked Howe be allowed to testify in his suit, not a prison uniform.

Howe has admitted to lying, cheating and stealing, but insisted last week he's become an honest man.

Caproni has urged the lawyers not to continue dwelling on Howe's checkered past.

Caproni warned jurors the trial is expected to last at least through next week. Prosecutors said they expect to call 11 more witnesses before they rest their case. The defense will also have an opportunity to call witnesses.

So far, the trial has explored who had influence in Gov. Andrew Cuomo's administration and how ambitious corporations like Cor wooed powerful politicians in high places.

Syracuse.com is in New York City, covering the trial. Check back here for updates. Here are some highlights from the last three weeks:

Read our continuing coverage of the trial

Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government and other issues affecting taxpayers. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A man remains at large after allegedly firing a shotgun during a domestic dispute in Stapleton, according to police.

No injuries were reported and no arrests have been made in the incident outside of a home in the vicinity of Pine Place and Vanderbilt Avenue on Sunday evening, according to a spokesman for the NYPD's Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

A man fled the scene in a black Toyota Sienna, according to police.

The 45-year-old husband allegedly fired a shotgun in the direction of his 51-year-old wife in front of their family home, then took off in the car, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A federal jury has rejected the $1.2-million lawsuit of a Muslim tenant who alleged MaryLou Shanahan, the former chairwoman of the borough Conservative Party, had evicted her from her Eltingville apartment and removed pricey personal property in the process because of her religion.

Instead, the panel awarded nearly $17,000 to Shanahan who had counter-sued Hasna Jalal for slander, property damage and fraud, said Michael V. Gervasi, Shanahan's lawyer.

"The jury verdict vindicates Ms. Shanahan's account of what happened at the premises and proves and vindicates her account that she was the victim," said Gervasi, a principal in the West Brighton firm of Scamardella, Gervasi, Thomson & Kasegrande. "She has been and continues to be wrongfully accused of taking this woman's property."

Despite the victory in the civil suit, Shanahan still faces misdemeanor charges accusing her of criminal trespass, unlawful eviction, petit larceny and stolen-property possession stemming from the dispute. Felony grand larceny and stolen-property possession charges were previously dismissed.

That case is pending in Criminal Court.

Nicholas M. Moccia, Jalal's lawyer, said his client is exploring her legal options in the civil case.

Jalal, then 33, sued Shanahan, 54, in January 2016 in Brooklyn federal court.

Jalal, who is from Morocco, moved into the apartment on Aug. 30, 2015. She paid a $1,500 security deposit in cash and gave Shanahan a check for $3,000 to cover the first two months' rent, her civil complaint said.

Things turned sour quickly, she alleged.

About a week after the move-in, Shanahan disparaged Jalal when she heard her speaking on the phone with Moroccan relatives in her native tongue, called her offensive names and threatened her, the civil suit alleged.

Jalal, an accountant, contended she was evicted shortly thereafter in October 2015.

Gervasi, Shanahan's lawyer, said Jalal vacated the apartment on Oct. 4, 2015.

Jalal alleged that neighbors told her Shanahan and her landscaping employees removed personal property, such as a $35,000 Hermes bag, a $35,000 Rolex watch, a $15,000 24-karat gold necklace, $6,000 worth of flat screen televisions, and an $8,000 Louis Vuitton luggage set from her third-floor apartment.

The jury was not convinced and voted in Shanahan's favor.

After Shanahan's arrest on Oct. 4, 2015, Allen P. Cappelli, her original criminal defense lawyer, said Shanahan "categorically denied" taking any of Jalal's property.

The criminal complaint accuses Shanahan of removing a third-floor tenant's entire property, including TVs, furniture, sofas, a bed, kitchen appliances and other personal items on Oct. 1, 2015, and changing the apartment's locks.

Shanahan was elected chairwoman of the borough's Conservative Party in September 1998.



She served a two-year term, according to Advance reports.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A 37-year-old man took off when police tried to pull him over as he speeded and drove recklessly on busy Forest and Richmond avenues on Saturday afternoon, authorities allege.

Police chased Michael Badolato to the front of his home on Saybrook Street in Willowbrook where he was arrested at about 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, said a spokesman for the NYPD's Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

Badolato doesn't have a valid driver's license and allegedly had a gravity knife and a crack pipe in his possession when officers finally caught up with him, according to police and the criminal complaint.

The wild ride began when the suspect allegedly was alone and driving a 2013 Kia. He allegedly failed to signal and was speeding as he exited a parking lot at 1614 Forest Avenue in Port Richmond Center, according to the criminal complaint.

The suspect allegedly continued to speed, tailgate and weave in and out of lanes of traffic without signaling as he traveled on Forest Avenue toward Richmond Avenue, according to the criminal complaint.

A marked police car with lights flashing and siren blaring tried to curb the Kia and Badolato allegedly stopped his car near Richmond and Yona avenues. The suspect allegedly opened and closed the driver's side door, then reversed into traffic at a high rate of speed, forcing multiple drivers to slam on their brakes to avoid colliding with his car, according to the criminal complaint.

Badolato then allegedly drove the car forward at a high rate of speed on Richmond Avenue and didn't signal before he made a left turn onto Morani Street and proceeded onto Victory Boulevard. He drove into the opposite lane of traffic on Victory Boulevard as he passed other vehicles, according to the criminal complaint.

Badolato allegedly made a left turn onto Saybrook Street, then drove into a parking lot at 2944 Victory Blvd., where he parked the car. He then left the vehicle and ran toward his home on Saybrook Street, the criminal complaint said.

As they apprehended Badolato, police allegedly found a gravity knife in the suspect's jacket pocket. A crack pipe with cocaine residue was discovered in the driver's seat of the Kia, the criminal complaint said.

The suspect has a prior conviction with a guilty plea for petit larceny in March 2014, according to the criminal complaint.

Badolato has been charged with criminal possession of a weapon, criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful fleeing from a police officer in a motor vehicle, reckless endangerment and various violations including driving without a license, according to police and public records.Page Content

On Sunday morning February 11th Prime Minister Leona Romeo Marlin together with Minister of Finance Michael Ferrier, Minister of Justice Cornelius Deweever, and Minister of VROMI Miklos Giterson lead a delegation of technocrats to French St. Martin to meet President Daniel Gibbs, Prefet Anne Laubies and their Civil Servants team at the Collectivitie in Marigot.





The rekindling of discussions between both Governments ends a period of 14 months where no talks have taken place. This meeting begins the process of reversing the potential risk of jeopardizing the continuation of important EU funded joint projects that are essential and beneficial to the people of St. Martin / Sint Maarten.





The goal of this initial meeting was to reaffirm the commitment to the St. Martin / Sint Maarten Territorial Cooperation Programme 2014  2020. A progression update on three existing projects were discussed namely; Belle Plaine drainage project, Simpson Bay Lagoon cleanup & Waste to water treatment plant for the Simpson Bay / Cole Bay area.





The waste to energy solution for the sanitary landfill/dump was also discussed as a possible 4th project but those discussions are preliminary and exploratory in nature at this early juncture as both sides still require much more research and development before going forward with any possible proposal.





In conclusion both Governments expressed the need for a unified message when having discussions with their respective European counterparts on issues of mutual cooperation. They also conveyed that cooperation on a local level must continue on structural basis and the historical unity and cooperation that has been displayed for many years must continue to be an example for countries in the world to recognize and admire.



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About Kate

Why this blog?

Until this moment I have been forced to listen while media and politicians alike have told me "what Canadians think". In all that time they never once asked.

This is just the voice of an ordinary Canadian yelling back at the radio - "You don't speak for me."

(goes to a private mailserver in Europe) I can't answer or use every tip, but all are appreciated!



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A water cannon salute welcomed the Boeing B777 aircraft, marking the start of a new daily route from the capital to Doha via Sydney.

A Qatar Airways plane lands at Canberra international airport to launch the new daily service from Canberra to Doha Credit:karleen minney

At gate four, crowds gathered by the glass to toast the plane's arrival while a waiting media pack were served dates and Arabic coffee, a traditional Qatar "energy kick".

The plane, which seats 358, touched down at 9.25am after a flyover of the city. But by 2pm, it had returned to the sky to begin the almost 18-hour journey to Doha, which includes another brief stopover in Sydney.A Canberra childcare centre worker allegedly defrauded a man she met on a dating app of more than $61,000, a court has heard.

Crystal Lee Lancaster, 26, was arrested on Monday after police searched her property.

She was hauled before court charged with 24 counts of dishonestly obtaining property by deception against the alleged victim.

Police suspect there could be more than 23 more alleged victims who have deposited a combined total of $300,000 in the woman's account since 2010.

Police allege the Dunlop woman stole the identity of another person on Instagram and told the man she met on the dating app that she needed chemotherapy, and school fees for her son.Qantas went shopping on Monday, taking a joyride in the skies above Sydney in a variation of the aircraft it could soon be flying non-stop from Australia's east coast to New York and London.

Airbus is pitting its A350-900 up against Boeing's 777-8X to be chosen by Qantas for its "Project Sunrise" ambition to fly across the globe to Europe and America's east coast without stopping from about 2022.

The Airbus A350-1000 at Sydney Airport on Monday. Credit:Kate Geraghty

In Sydney on Monday to show off the -1000 variant of the A350 to executives from both Qantas and Virgin Australia, Airbus' head of A350 marketing Marisa Lucas-Ugena said the European aerospace giant was "having very interesting conversations with Qantas" about the project.

"We are evaluating what they want and they are evaluating what they [the A350] can do," she said.Unilever, the world's second largest advertiser, has threatened to pull investment from platforms that fail to tackle fake news amid a "techlash" from the public against social media giants.

The company behind brands such as Lynx and Dove warned that brands "have to take the lead" in confronting the "deep systematic issue" as Facebook and Twitter try to grapple with a string of scandals in which their platforms have been used to spread politically charged and misleading news reports.

Social media giants are grappling with a string of scandals in which their platforms have been used to spread politically charged and misleading news reports. Credit:Simon O'Dwyer

Unilever says it will not invest in platforms that "create division" in society and "promote anger or hate", arguing that "social media should build social responsibility".

Facebook has come under fire for allowing fake news to flood users' news feeds, while Twitter has been accused of failing to confront political bots amid allegations that Russia used an army of fake accounts to sway the Brexit vote and US election in 2016.Rail freight operator Aurizon has delivered a spectacular spray to Queensland regulators, saying a draft decision that would cap its revenue contained flawed logic, fundamental errors and was economically irresponsible.

Aurizon posted a statutory net profit of $281.5 million for the first half of fiscal 2018.

Aurizon released its half-year results on Monday, posting a healthy 52 per cent rise in statutory net profit to $281.5 million, but the result was overshadowed by the company's unflinching response to the regulators position on Aurizons maximum allowable revenue in its draft decision released in December.

The Queensland Competition Authority said Aurizon's maximum allowable revenue for the next four years from the use of its Central Queensland Coal Network rail track should be $3.9 billion, which was $1 billion less than what Aurizon believed it should be.

Yesterday Aurizon said it would be forced to make changes to its capital works and planned maintenance programs in response to the QCA decision. It warned these changes would reduce the amount of coal it transports per year by about 20 million tonnes, with ramifications for customers and industry.When my three-year-old started coming home from preschool spouting off words, phrases, even songs in Chinese, I thought it was merely toddler gibberish. That is until we were out to dinner one night, and a friend pointed out,"You know she's counting to 10 in Mandarin, right?"

In Hong Kong, they like to start school at a young age; competition is fierce and it's believed education is the key to success.

Australia might lay claim to being one of the most multicultural countries in the world, yet learning a second language is still not compulsory in many primary schools. Credit:Louise Kennerley

At the tender age of two-and-a-half, my daughter was in a class that had both a full-time English teacher and full-time Mandarin teacher.

At parent-teacher interviews, the Mandarin teacher attempted to explain Ava's progress in Mandarin. I knew I had to up my game, so I enrolled myself in online Mandarin classes.Ten years ago then prime minister Kevin Rudd yoked together the unruly ruling elites of our nation  our state and federal parliamentarians  and set them a mighty task.

He warned that the goal would take years to achieve, perhaps a generation, and one that would see them falter many times.

Malcolm Turnbull: "The last decade has given us a richer understanding about what works and what does not." Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Mr Rudd set a challenge to create a new country from the ground up.

It was to close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, the gap in health, in housing, in educational opportunity and attainment, in employment, and, as Mr Rudd then observed, the obscenity of the 17-year gap in life expectancy.Gavin Schmidt, director of NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies, during a visit this month to attend a conference at the University of NSW. Credit:Dean Sewell

The eruption of pine bark beetles that has devastated millions of hectares of forests in North America is an example of the surprises yet to come as the planet warms, says Gavin Schmidt, head of NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies.

The tiny beetles, which have infested forests from Colorado to Alaska, develop a type of anti-freeze as winter arrives. With fewer cold snaps before the insects are "cold hardened", more of them are making it through to spring.

We just dont understand ecosystems to the extent we understand the physical climate systems," Dr Schmidt told Fairfax Media during a visit to Sydney. We will see over the next few decades more and more thresholds being crossed.

However, that's not to say the physical climate is fully understood either.Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has pointedly distanced himself from the Barnaby Joyce affair but insists the embattled Deputy Prime Minister has his full confidence, despite the widening scandal derailing the government's start to a crucial political year.

Mr Turnbull has also confirmed Mr Joyce will act as Prime Minister when he travels to the United States next week, in the face of intense scrutiny of the Deputy Prime Minister's relationship with pregnant former staff Vikki Campion.

Mr Joyce delivered a grovelling apology over the scandal to his Nationals' colleagues in a party room meeting on Monday; while a few colleagues expressed their displeasure with him, the strong view of the majority of his colleagues was that he should remain leader of the party. If, however, allegations about Mr Joyce's use of expenses were to emerge it could spell the end for the member for New England.

Barnaby Joyce and Malcolm Turnbull during question time on Monday. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Liberals are furious with Mr Joyce's actions, with some telling Fairfax Media they believed he should stand aside for the good of the Coalition.Former senator Sam Dastyari, who quit parliament after it was revealed he warned a Chinese donor that he may be under surveillance, has become the first person linked to the opposition to call for Barnaby Joyce's resignation, saying he quit for a "lot less".

In a series of late night posts on Twitter, he also threatened to expose other conservative MPs he claims are "f---ing around" and said he was "seriously... so bored".

Mr Dastyari, who was exposed by Fairfax Media as having asked another Chinese donor to pay off his personal debt to the government, and contravened Australian policy on the South China Sea during a press conference with his benefactors in China, said he had left his job for a lesser political crime and called for Mr Joyce to quit.

Mr Joyce's future as Nationals leader and Deputy Prime Minister remains precarious as the fall out from his affair with pregnant former advisor Vikki Campion continues to dominate federal politics, nearly a week after it was first revealed.Malcolm Turnbull's office has rejected claims Barnaby Joyce breached the ministerial code of conduct when his lover was employed by fellow MPs, arguing Vikki Campion could not be considered the Deputy Prime Minister's "partner" at the time.

Ms Campion left Mr Joyce's employ in April last year when their affair - which ultimately ended his 24-year marriage - began creating tensions in the office.

The 33-year-old was then given a new well-paid role with Resources Minister Matt Canavan, a close ally and fellow former staffer of Mr Joyce. Reports have suggested the job carried a salary of about $190,000 a year. When Senator Canavan stood aside over dual citizenship doubts in 2017, Ms Campion then moved to the office of then-chief Nationals whip Damian Drum.

But the ministerial code of conduct makes it clear partners cannot be employed by any other minister without an explicit prime ministerial go-ahead.Its hard being a politician. Theres the 24/7 news cycle, the exhausting travel, the never-satisfied constituents, and the weighty responsibility of using ones power responsibly. And then, of course, theres the insurmountable sexual urges this power seems to bring.

Many great men Bill Clinton, Bob Hawke, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and now Barnaby Joycehave fallen victim to this particular peril of high office.

Bill Clinton took advantage of the sexual opportunities high office presented. Credit:AP

As always, the Americans have come up with the most ridiculous response: a ban on legislators having affairs with their staff. Yes, thats right: Congressmen just passed a law to ban themselves from shagging their own staff.

The laws as misguided as it is ironic. You cant legislate morality (though that never seems to stop Americans, inheritors of a Puritan legacy, from trying). Laws might constrain behavior, but they dont change peoples ethics, or the complex social forces that enable their bad behavior in the first place.Bloody hell. Talk about a minefield. Since the revelations about the Deputy Prime Ministers complicated private life, there has been a great deal of criticism of us in the media for sitting on the story, when it was actually in the public interest to run a story about a powerful politician living a lie, while running on family values, the sanctity of marriage and the virtues of a conservative religious life.

In response, I say two things. Of course I heard the rumours. We all did. But the rumours I heard, and many of us heard, were much worse, and didnt turn out to be remotely true at all.

But yes, even if I had received a dossier with proof of the whole thing a month ago, I would still, frankly, be inclined to burn it as none of my damn business.

Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has found himself caught in a storm of controversy. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

I dont, however, criticise the Tele for breaking the story, once it had the actual story locked down. Their defence, that it was all going to come out anyway, is valid, though the photo of Joyces pregnant partner was, of course, beyond intrusive.A senior ally of Barnaby Joyce has dismissed the scandal engulfing the Nationals leader as a "beat up" in an angry outburst at reporters.

Speaking in the corridors of Parliament House after an Indigenous business showcase, an irate Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion claimed Mr Joyce enjoyed "100 per cent" support from Nationals colleagues, despite swirling speculation about the Deputy Prime Minister's future following revelations he had an affair with a staff member who is now pregnant.

"Where do you guys get off on this? Fair dinkum. This is the biggest beat up I've ever seen," he said when asked if Mr Joyce would survive as Nationals leader.

"I don't know [if] any of my National Party [colleagues] are even talking about this. What we're talking about is making sure we do the best deals for rural and regional Australia. And Barnaby has been the leader who has delivered on all of those things.In the time of Trump, we have become accustomed to New York Fashion Week taking on a certain political flavour, with pink Planned Parenthood buttons and protest t-shirts being sent down the runway.

This season's event occurs against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement, raising awareness of sexual harassment and abuse in the creative industries and beyond. Women speaking out against key industry players (like Kate Upton's allegations against the co-founder of Guess last week) were the inspiration behind French designer Myriam Chaleks headline-attracting show this year.

Sabrina Piper, 21, left, stands handcuffed to a male model costumed as a pig, during the #MeToo fashion show. Credit:AP

As the creative director of brands American Wardrobe and Minikia Ko, Chalek, 30, gathered a group of sexual misconduct and assault survivors to walk down the runway and share their stories.

Eight women walked in her designs and angel wings, before returning to the runway handcuffed to male models wearing pig heads for the finale (the pigs are a reference to a hashtag started by Sandra Muller, a French journalist, #BalanceTonPorc, which means expose your pig, and serves as the equivalent to the American #MeToo).Westerners tend to think of Chinese food as one type of cuisine. Some know the difference between Cantonese and Sichuan cooking, and may even have heard of China's eight great culinary styles. But in reality, there are dozens of distinct regional cuisines of China, and we are lucky to be able to find restaurants specialising in many of these right here in Melbourne.

Dolan Uyghur Food Heaven is one such restaurant. Or, more precisely, it is four such restaurants. The original was opened in Springvale a decade ago by Ilham (Eddie) Aziz. Since then, Aziz and a number of partners have opened three more, in the CBD, Box Hill and Carlton. The restaurants specialise in the food of the Uyghur ethnic minority from the Xinjiang Autonomous Region in Northwest China, who are predominantly Muslim. The restaurants are halal, and lamb is the base of many dishes.

Dolan Uyghur Food Heaven owner Ilham (Eddie) Aziz. Credit:Joe Armao

Xinjiang, in China's northwest corner, borders Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India. It is the link on the Silk Road between the Middle East and Asia, and much of the food of the region has more in common with Middle Eastern flavours than what many people think of as Chinese.

At Dolan Uyghur Food Heaven in the CBD, the "exotic lamb skewers" come with a heady aroma of cumin, and the lamb chops arrive over rolls of Turkish bread. There are steamed dumplings and buns, but there's also a dish called "Uyghur pastry", which is very much like a Middle Eastern meat pie: ground lamb shot through with black pepper and onion, encased in flaky pastry.40g munyeroo (native purslane), leaves picked (or use coriander leaves) 30g Bower spinach, picked (or use baby English spinach leaves) 10g pickled ginger, julienned  cup roasted macadamia nuts, finely crushed in a mortar and pestle 100g fresh black fungus

70g fresh bean sprouts 1 large red chilli, finely sliced 3 tbsp freshly squeezed finger limes (or use cheeks from 2 fresh limes) 300ml ginger and tamari dressing (see recipe below) METHOD

1. Soak noodles in boiling water for 15 minutes, drain thoroughly. 2. Arrange all ingredients on a large round platter in separate piles, with the noodles in the centre, and the sashimi slices arranged on top of the noodles. 3. To serve, place platter in the centre of the table, make sure all guests have a pair of chopsticks, and pour 300ml of the dressing over the salad. Everyone must reach into the salad to mix and toss it with their chopsticks, saying very loudly "loh hei" (literally "to move upwards"). The higher you toss the salad, the better your New Year luck. Serves 6 as an entree as part of a Lunar New Year banquet Ginger and tamari dressing

This versatile dressing is perfect with salads, steamed greens, roast chicken and grilled or barbecued seafood. Keeps for about three days in the fridge. INGREDIENTS 175ml malt vinegar 125g brown sugar 50ml water

175ml tamari 2 tsp sesame oil 1 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp finely grated white onion 1 tbsp finely grated ginger

METHOD 1. To make the dressing, pour vinegar into a heatproof bowl. Place sugar and water in a small pan and bring to the boil then turn the heat down to medium and allow sugar to caramelise until it is dark brown (about 2-3 minutes). 2. Just before caramel begins to smoke, remove from the heat, quickly pour into the vinegar bowl and whisk well. Add tamari and sesame oil and whisk well. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil, whisking continuously, then stir through onion and ginger. Makes about 730ml Kylie Kwong's spanner crab and ginger dumplings with Sichuan chilli. Credit:William Meppem

Spanner crab and ginger dumplings with Sichuan chilli INGREDIENTS about 160g fresh picked spanner crab meat* 2 spring onions, finely sliced 5cm x 1cm knob (15g) ginger, finely diced

1 tsp light soy sauce  tsp white sugar  tsp sesame oil 16 fresh round or square wonton wrappers (about 8cm across) Sichuan chilli oil (see recipe below)

10g picked native sea blite leaves (or use fresh dill) pinch of Sichuan pepper and salt (see recipe below) METHOD 1. Place all the dumpling ingredients (except wonton wrappers, Sichuan chilli oil and Sichuan pepper and salt) in a bowl and combine well. 2. Next, fill and shape the dumplings by placing a rounded teaspoon of the filling in the centre of a wrapper. Dip your finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper. Gently lift one side of the wrapper and fold in half over the filling to the opposite side. Lightly press around filling and along edges to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling. Set the 16 dumplings aside in a single layer on a tray lined with baking paper.

3. Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil. Drop dumplings into the water a few at a time and boil for 2 minutes or until cooked and wrappers are translucent. To test that the dumplings are ready, remove one and cut into it with a sharp knife to check that the filling is hot. When dumplings are ready, remove with a slotted spoon and drain onto a plate. 4. Arrange dumplings on a platter and serve immediately dressed with Sichuan chilli oil, garnished with the native sea blite and sprinkled with the Sichuan pepper and salt. *Rockliff and Fraser Isle brand cooked spanner crab meat are available in 500g packets from the Sydney Fish Market and selected Melbourne markets or order from your fishmonger. Freeze the remaining 300g for later use. Give the crab meat a good squeeze with your fingers to remove excess liquid. Wet crab meat will result in soggy dumplings. Serves 4 as a starter Sichuan chilli oil

INGREDIENTS 2 tsp dried chilli flakes  cup vegetable oil 2 tbsp light soy sauce 2 tbsp hot water

1 tbsp rice wine vinegar 2 tsp white sugar pinch of Sichuan pepper and salt (see recipe below) METHOD 1. Place chilli flakes in a heatproof bowl. Heat oil in a small heavy-based saucepan until the surface seems to shimmer slightly. Carefully pour hot oil over chilli to release the heat and flavour. Stir to combine and set aside for at least 30 minutes to cool.

2. Strain cooled oil mixture over a bowl through a fine sieve and discard chilli flakes. Stir in remaining ingredients, including a pinch of Sichuan pepper and salt, to combine and set aside. Sichuan pepper and salt INGREDIENTS 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns 3 tbsp sea salt

METHOD 1. Dry-roast peppercorns and salt in a heavy-based pan. When peppercorns begin to "pop" and become aromatic, take off the heat. Allow to cool, then grind to a powder in mortar and pestle or spice grinder. Makes Four tablespoons; store in an airtight container Kylie Kwong's deep-fried duck with native quandong, Davidson's plum and orange sauce recipe. Credit:William Meppem Deep-fried duck with native quandong, Davidson's plum and orange sauce

If you can't find Davidson's plums, make the citrus sauce with European plums and orange. The same method can be adapted to orange, or plum and mandarin or just mandarin. And if you can't find quandongs, leave them out. INGREDIENTS 1  1.5kg free-range duck 2 tbsp Sichuan pepper and salt (see recipe)  cup (35g) plain flour

safflower or sunflower oil, for deep-frying Citrus sauce 1 cup (250ml) water 1 cup (220g) brown sugar  cup (80ml) fish sauce

6 whole star anise 2 cinnamon quills juice of 3 limes 1 orange, peeled and sliced crossways 50g native quandongs, deseeded and halved*

60g native Davidson's plums, deseeded and halved 2 tbsp Davidson's plum sauce* METHOD 1. Rinse duck under cold water. Trim away excess fat from inside and outside the cavity, and trim off neck, parson's nose and winglets. Pat dry and rub the skin all over with Sichuan pepper and salt. Cover duck and place in refrigerator to marinate overnight. 2. Transfer duck to a large steamer basket. Place basket over a deep saucepan of boiling water and steam, covered securely, for about 1 hours, or until the duck is cooked through (to test, insert a small knife between leg and breast  the juices should run clear). Using tongs, gently remove duck from the steamer and place on a tray, breast-side up, to drain. Allow to cool slightly, then transfer to refrigerator to cool further.

3. Meanwhile, make the citrus sauce. Combine water and sugar in a small pan and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 7 minutes, or until slightly reduced. Add fish sauce and spices and simmer for a further minute. Remove pan from stove. 4. Place cooled duck breast-side up on a chopping board and, using a large knife or meat cleaver, cut duck in half lengthways through breastbone and backbone. Carefully ease meat away from carcass, leaving thighs, legs and wings intact. Because the duck has been cooked through completely, the meat should come away from the bones very easily. Lightly toss duck halves in flour to coat, shaking off any excess. 5. Heat oil in a hot wok until the surface seems to shimmer slightly. Deep-fry duck halves one at a time, for about 3 minutes on each side, or until well-browned and crisp. Using tongs, carefully remove duck from oil and drain well on paper towel, then leave to rest in a warm place for 5 minutes. Reheat the citrus sauce to boiling, add in the lime juice, orange, quandongs, Davidson's plums and plum sauce, return sauce to medium heat then remove from stove. Finally, with a sharp knife, cut the duck into pieces and arrange on a serving platter. Spoon over hot citrus sauce and serve immediately. *Frozen quandongs and Davidson's plums are available from Outback Pride Fresh and other specialist suppliers.I, personally, do not remember it because I live in Sydney, where cloud cover made the super blue blood moon look underwhelmingly similar to a regular moon.

The celestial phenomenon which saw the moon appear enlarged, red, and, for the second time in a month, full?

Every February 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies." - Leslie Knope, on Galentine's Day

But, that doesn't matter. Because this year the lunar calendar has given us all a much greater gift.

In 2017, Galentine's Day, the February 13th celebration of female friendship and breakfast foods created by Amy Poehler's character, Leslie Knope, on Parks and Recreation, is the same day as Pancake Day, the moon-determined celebration of the imminent start of the western Christian church's season of Lent... and breakfast foods.

It's an event which has not occurred since 1945. If you and your Galentines were around then, you would have been sadly eating sawdust-stretched pancakes, your only joy coming from a radio bulletin telling you that the Soviets had just kicked the Nazis out of Budapest. That is how long ago that was.

Luckily, Galentine's Day x Pancake Day will occur twice more in the near future, in 2024 and 2029 (put it in your iCal).

But then the celestial phenomenon will disappear until  brace yourselves  the year 2170.The Catholic Church is far more than its buildings. It is principally our people and their works.

I am proud that our people provide high-quality healthcare, aged care, palliative care, counselling, primary and secondary schooling, tertiary education, community building and pastoral care. Our people provide social welfare services to those living with disability or drug and alcohol dependence, to those fleeing domestic violence or with mental health issues, to the unemployed, homeless, refugees and indigenous, to parents, children and youth.

I am enormously proud our people help millions of Australian families and individuals every year, Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

Taken together this makes us the nations largest non-government provider of essential services. Inevitably that means a lot of "assets". But we do all of this as a non-profit organisation. So we have to work those assets hard and manage our money responsibly. Hence the internal church "banks" that assist parishes, schools and others get a start on their projects without crippling charges. Hence the local finance committees and cake stalls in our local parishes. Hence the Vinnies shops and the rest.

To compare this with the corporates like Westfield and Wesfarmers, as the SMH and Age did yesterday, is unreal. So is valuing St Marys Cathedral as if it were a potential site for a high rise development. Its value is as spiritual and artistic heritage of the Church, city and nation.A seven-year-old boy is in a critical condition after falling from a third-storey window in Sydney's west.

The boy was rushed to Bankstown Hospital by family after he fell from a bedroom window of their third-floor unit on Chapel Road, Bankstown, about 7.20pm on Monday.

The child was then rushed to Sydney Children's Hospital in Randwick with critical head injuries, where he remained in a critical but stable condition on Tuesday, a hospital spokeswoman said.

Police are now investigating the circumstances around the incident.Imagine going to work and being told by strangers you are going to hell. You have to push past people who tell you what you do is wrong, that you should be ashamed and that youre doing the devils work. Your vehicle is regularly splashed by "holy water" that mysteriously blisters the paint on your car, and you have graphic images shoved in your face as you enter your workplace.

This is the reality for many Australian healthcare workers each day who provide abortion care to thousands of patients.

Many clinics across Australia live with the presence of anti-abortion picketers who harass and intimidate staff tasked with providing a safe, high-quality and legal health service to women. This activity often steps up a notch closer to Easter and Lent.

When picketers target a clinic, their presence affects all staff; from the cleaner to the receptionist, the counsellors and nurses through to the doctors. It also affects their families, who worry about them when they are confronted by aggressive picketers.A drunken knife-wielding Australia Post worker was advancing on two plainclothes police officers in Warners Bay, in the City of Lake Macquarie, when they opened fire, killing him, a NSW inquest has been told.

Barrister Rob Ranken told Newcastle Local Court on Monday how the officers, Jamie Taylor and Darren Hamilton, pleaded with Stephen Hodge, 51, to drop the box-cutter he was carrying in his right hand before they fired five shots.

Police at the scene of the shooting outside Warners Bay post office. Credit:MARINA NEIL

Mr Ranken is the counsel assisting acting State Coroner Teresa O'Sullivan who is holding an inquest into Mr Hodge's death in the car park of the Warners Bay post office on the afternoon of September 9, 2015.

He said the two shots fired by Constable Taylor hit Mr Hodge in the upper chest and abdomen, which caused his death.A wide-ranging police investigation is needed to probe the extent that money was misused within RSL NSW and the subsequent cover-up, permitted by a decade of sheer ineptitude and cronyism, a public inquiry has found.

Eighteen months after Fairfax Media first reported on concerns about misuse of expenses by volunteer RSL councillors, the 548-page report from the inquiry has recommended all the evidence about former president Don Rowes credit card misuse be referred to the police.

Mr Rowe spent $465,000 on his RSL credit cards over six years, about $150,000 of which he could not account for with receipts, including large cash withdrawals.

"It will not be possible to know the full extent of the misuse of RSL NSW funds and the culpability of those dealing with the process of approval of those expenses unless a broad and detailed police investigation is conducted," the report states.

The inquiry headed by former Supreme Court Judge Patricia Bergin, SC, also concluded that 13 former RSL NSW councillors - including former national president Rod White - should be referred to the corporate regulator and the charities watchdog for failing in their duties to the league.Former RSL NSW president Don Rowe should be referred to police over his misuse of league credit cards and 13 other directors referred to charity watchdogs for covering up the expenses scandal, a high-level inquiry has found.

The inquiry also recommended that eight board members and executives of the veterans' leagues aged care arm should be referred to the watchdog over payments made to some voluntary board members that appeared to breach charities regulations.

The inquiry, headed by former Supreme Court judge Patricia Bergin, SC, has also called for sweeping reform of fundraising regulations to make charities such as the RSL more accountable for how they spend money collected from the public.It was the centrepiece of the NSW government's health budget last year. A $720 million funding package to expand the Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick.

For the broader community, it was good news. A new acute services building would be built west of the hospital campus, providing the community with a new emergency department and intensive care unit, extra beds, and operating theatres.

Sam Sarkis, 63, at his home, which is being acquired by the NSW government for the expansion of the hospital. Credit:Louise Kennerley

But for the residents of Eurimbla Avenue, a cul-de-sac on the hospital's western boundary, the announcement hid a hammer blow.

Fifty three homes on the avenue, along with 28 on Botany Street and eight properties on Magill Street, were on land earmarked for the hospital's expansion.A man accused of animal cruelty after being caught allegedly kicking his dog at a Gold Coast beach has had his matter mentioned in court.

Brent Simpson, 32, did not appear at Southport Magistrates Court on Monday after being charged with one count of animal cruelty.

The RSPCA seized the staffy shown in a video uploaded to Facebook. Credit:RSPCA Queensland

Mr Simpson was charged after footage of him allegedly yanking a young male Staffordshire terrier on a lead and kicking the animal went viral in January.

The person who posted the video said she had seen a man punch the dog with a closed fist.Prosecutors have requested additional time to build the brief of evidence against a Queensland mother accused of murdering her adult children five years apart.

Maree Crabtree was in January charged with the murder of her 26-year-old son Jonathan last year and 18-year-old daughter Erin in 2012, following a complex police investigation across several states.

Maree Crabtree is accused of the murders of her children, Erin (inset top) and Jonathan (inset bottom). Credit:Facebook

She was also charged with the grievous bodily harm and torture of a 25-year-old woman and several offences relating to frauds of large amounts of money.

Following her first court appearance, her lawyer said she would vigorously defend the charges.Police are investigating a suspicious that fire engulfed cars at an apartment complex on the Gold Coast.

At 4.20 am on Monday, police were called to the six-storey Harbour Quays complex on East Quay Drive, Biggera Waters, following reports of an explosion and smoke coming from the basement.

Emergency services attended a fire on the Gold Coast early Monday morning.

Police found four cars alight in the buildings underground carpark.

Residents were quickly evacuated and there were no injuries, but all four cars and the building were extensively damaged.Gold Coast policeman Rick Flori knew he had the opportunity to undermine a rival by releasing CCTV footage of a violent arrest, the prosecutor has stressed in his misconduct trial.

Former Sergeant Flori is standing trial in the Southport District Court for releasing the footage showing handcuffed man Noa Begic being kneed and beaten by officers in 2012.

The crown prosecutor has argued Rick Flori (pictured) released violent CCTV footage to undermine a police rival. Credit:Glenn Hunt

The 47-year-old has pleaded not guilty to the charge of misconduct with the intent to dishonestly cause detriment to Senior Sergeant David Joachim, who gained a promotion for which Flori was overlooked in 2011.

On Monday, crown prosecutor Todd Fuller used his closing address to argue Flori's continued references to Senior Sergeant Joachim showed his intention.The Melbourne factory where a former elite policeman was allegedly murdered was also the base for an ice dealer, a court has been told.

David Grierson, 46, faced a preliminary hearing at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday charged with murdering Dean McGrath at a Braeside factory last year.

Murder charges were dropped against a second man, Craig Hunter Marshall, 47, after he pleaded guilty to helping dispose of Mr McGraths body and getting rid of the gun used in the offence.

Mr McGrath left the force in 2010 with post-traumatic stress disorder.Publicly-available sex offender registers have a long and chequered history internationally, leading to vigilante violence and harassment.

But the Victorian Liberals insist the register they proposed on Monday strikes the right balance between informing families about the worst of the worst sex offenders and preventing vigilante action.

Under the Coalition policy, Victorians wanting to access the register will have to apply to a commissioner and sign a declaration promising not to misuse the information. It will not be publicly searchable.

Applicants will be able to find out whether their local area is home to sex offenders or request information about specific individuals.

The register will include photographs, identifying descriptions and the 'current area' where the offender lives, but not their actual address.A heart surgeon punched in the face after telling a man not to smoke outside a hospital fell to the floor with such force his head cracked a tile, a court has heard.

Joseph Esmaili, 23, is charged with manslaughter and assault offences over the death of surgeon Patrick Pritzwald-Stegmann and is in Melbourne Magistrates Court this week for a hearing that will determine whether he stands trial.

Police say Mr Pritzwald-Stegmann and Mr Esmaili spoke after the surgeon saw a group of people smoking outside Box Hill Hospital in a designated non-smoking area on May 30 last year. The accused man allegedly threw a fatal punch without warning.

Mr Pritzwald-Stegmann, a 41-year-old father of two, died about four weeks later.Two teenage girls were repeatedly punched in the head and one was robbed after being set upon by four other teenagers at Melbourne's South Wharf shopping centre.

Footage has emerged of the shocking attack in which the two teenagers were pushed and punched while shopping at the Direct Factory Outlet on Saturday, January 27.

Both victims were repeatedly punched in the head by their four attackers.

The footage shows one victim being shoved and then struck in the head three times by one of the attackers who approached from behind.A teenage boy has been charged with murder over the death of Brunswick artist Antonia Tatchell.

Homicide Squad detectives charged a 17-year-old on Monday.

Antonia Tatchell was found dead at a house in Brunswick, January 11.

Ms Tatchell, 43, was found dead in a bathtub inside a house in Albert Street, Brunswick just before 6am on January 11.

The painter and photographer attended school at Preshil, studied at the VCA and won the Clayton Utz Art Award in 2011.Katie Foster In response, the church reversed its previous position and denied the girls had been abused. Katie was permanently brain damaged after being hit by a car while under the influence of alcohol in 1999. In 2008, after being trapped in a vicious cycle of depression, drug abuse and self-harm, Emma took her own life. Emma Foster It was at the height of the bitter legal fight in 2005 that the archdiocese purchased the five-bedroom, Georgian-style mansion in Kew for $1.65 million.

Archbishop Hart has listed the property as his home address since, according to records obtained by The Age. It was valued by the City of Boroondara in January 2016 at $2.25 million. The Kew home of Archbishop Denis Hart Credit:realestateview.com.au Chrissie Foster had been unaware of the purchase until informed of it by The Age in January. To hear that while they were fighting us, the church was spending up big on a private house is infuriating. Surprising, but after everything, not surprising, she said. Archdiocese communications director Shane Healy said the Kew property had been purchased because the Archbishop's previous home was "not fit for purpose due to its size and the cost of ongoing maintenance".

In another property deal involving Archbishop Hart, the archdiocese purchased a beach house in Dromana for $872,000 in 2008. Mr Healy said the property was bought for the Archbishop's personal use. In mid-2017, the church sold the house to Archbishop Hart for $1.12 million, who bought it using a combination of personal savings and an inheritance. The $1.12 million Dromana beach house now owned by Archbishop Denis Hart. Credit:Justin McManus The price the church paid for the two properties  $2.5 million  is almost a quarter of the total amount paid to abuse survivors under the archdiocese controversial Melbourne Response redress scheme in the 20 years until 2015.

In a statement tendered in 2014 to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, church lawyer Richard Leder of Corrs Chambers Westgarth said the archdiocese had been reluctant to settle with the Fosters because it might encourage other victims to to sue the church. ... we were concerned that a settlement for a substantial sum could detract from the effectiveness of the Melbourne Response, Mr Leder wrote. The church has been criticised for decades over the level of compensation it has provided to survivors. The royal commission reported payments averaged $35,000 under the Melbourne Response, the compensation scheme established by the then archbishop George Pell in 1996. A total of $11.3 million had been paid to 324 survivors of child sexual abuse by 2015. Mr Healy said the archdiocese had increased the cap of the Melbourne Response to $150,000, and survivors of child abuse who received amounts under previous caps have been able to obtain additional redress. He said an additional $17.2 million has been paid since early 2015.

Catholic officials have previously claimed that boosting payouts to the victims of child sexual abuse could lead to cuts to social welfare programs or force the church to sell assets or borrow to meet its financial obligations. Ms Foster said it was clear the church can afford to pay more. Its a pretence to extract themselves from their responsibilities for the damage they have caused. The Catholic Church in Australia, which comprises 28 dioceses and dozens of religious orders, has been notoriously secretive about its wealth. Church leaders have repeatedly publicly underestimated church assets and resisted greater financial accountability. The Age investigation involved obtaining property valuations from 36 Victorian councils, including most of the Melbourne metropolitan area, Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo, many under freedom of information.It appears former West Coast Eagles captain Ben Cousins has returned to the nest a month after his release from prison.

The 39-year-old was snapped at Subiaco Oval in an Eagles polo t-shirt with players Willie Rioli and Liam Ryan.

Ben Cousins with West Coast Eagles players Willie Rioli and Liam Ryan. Credit:Heather McNeill

Rioli posted the picture to his Instagram account on Monday with the caption, "Still a legend in our eyes! Honoured to have met him and had a lil laugh".

Cousins was released from jail on January 10 - just shy of completing his one-year sentence for stalking his ex-partner.Craig Silvey who is author and sceenwriter of Jasper Jones. Credit:Steven Siewert Craig Silvey released a statement on Monday saying he appreciated parents and administrators wished to protect younger people from material they considered harmful, but he believed a senior school's foremost role was to produce students capable of navigating an adult world. "Often this requires sensitively introducing themes and ideas that can be confronting. What literature affords our students is a safe means of exposure to challenging material," he said. Tim Winton's Breath, also soon to be released in movie format. "A story is an opportunity to travel beyond the familiar, and to observe and explore the world from other perspectives. This is a vital, timeless practice. It enriches us by inviting us to empathise and understand.

"Rather than close us off, it opens us up, and it makes us better people. But it has to be honest. And often the truth is painful, frightening, confusing, or difficult to process. Jasper Jones was released in movie form last year. Credit:Madman "This is why I'd urge you to trust your staff, whose expertise lies in guiding and encouraging students through discussion, passing on the requisite skills to digest and dissect, and offering context and advice, so that the content in stories won't be too distressing or overwhelming, and neither will the world beyond them. "Most of all, trust your students. They're stronger, wiser and more capable than you might presume." Tim Winton's Cloudstreet.

University of WA Professor Andrew Lynch is director of the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence for the History of Emotions. He was "amazed" that such texts would be vetted for sexual references and vulgar language. "These books are not guides for living," he said. "Censorship assumes that a student is a passive person who will just take on whatever a book says." He said teachers had been taking students to film versions of Romeo and Juliet for many years and it was vital for helping bring Shakespeare into student's lives. Cloudstreet was a book he had also taught when it was published in 1991. It had a "bit of bad language, perhaps" but was primarily "an intensely thoughtful book about people's lives and behaviour".

"It's not a book that intends to corrupt," he said. Prof Lynch said it would be a mistake to put the onus on the teachers to parse every work on the syllabus, rather than discussing with parents specifically what concerned them. Paul Gardner is a former English teacher, now senior lecturer in at Curtin University's School of Education. He said it was odd that concerns about texts written so many years ago should be raised now. "As Shakespeare himself said, literature holds a mirror up to nature. Nature includes the human condition, how people relate and behave towards each other," he said. "You will always see sensitive issues in literature."

Dr Gardner said the classroom was a structured space in which students and adults could negotiate meanings and form understandings about issues they were bound to come across outside school. It was beneficial to have a wide and varied body of literature that dealt with such issues. If a text dealt with misogyny and presented women in a negative way, it could help students place such attitudes in their historical context, and develop critical and analytical faculties. They could also develop a suitable vocabulary to discuss these issues in a meaningful way and the ability to criticise such texts was an essential element of the Australian English curriculum. "We are living through an age in which we are all being presented with biased, misleading, fake information," he said. "It is imperative that every single one of us develops the ability to apply critical analysis of all kinds of information, to identify truth from untruth, biased from unbiased."

He appreciated that principals and teachers were in increasingly vulnerable positions as a "producer-consumer" culture developed around education. But they had to remember that education was about developing students' capacity to make proper judgements about new situations and complexities. "We need a fresh discourse about the function of education. Sometimes teachers and principals feel they've got to bend to vocal demands; but these vocal demands may not be what the majority are thinking. It could be a few people who are leading the dissent," he said. Loading "As a profession, we have to make a stronger case for literacy education."A 67-year-old Margaret River man re-appeared in Bunbury Magistrates Court on Friday over an altercation that hospitalised a man who later died.

Antony Charles Hardy appeared on the upgraded charge of murder, along with grievous bodily harm.

Antony Hardy faced Bunbury Court on an upgraded murder charge.

Hardy, a well-known surfer in the local area, had not spoken with a lawyer or Legal Aid and was strongly advised to by the magistrate, to which he replied he didn't want one.

"I know what I've done, so why have a middle man?" he said.The Perth-based company responsible for WA's first surf park hopes to have its development application submitted in the next month.

It's been a long road for Urbnsurf's plan to build a $25 million Swan River foreshore project, with significant opposition from some vocal locals, but the project was finally able to break ground earlier this month.

An artist's impression of the wave park, which will now undergo environmental testing.

Geotechnical rigs were brought to Tompkins Park on February 1 to collect core samples for environmental testing, and Urbnsurf executive Andrew Ross hoped the results would correct current "misinformation" about the project.

"We're hopeful this will show there's no significant environmental issues associated with this site at all," he said.Two boys have been hit by cars within an hour of each other in two separate incidents in Perth's southern suburbs on Monday.

A police spokesman said a four-year-old boy rode his scooter in front of a Mazda sedan on The Bridgeway in Canning Vale around 4.15pm.

Major Crash officers at the scene. Credit:Emma Young

A 17-year-old driver hit the boy who was taken to hospital with injuries to his face, arms and legs.

Nine News Perth journalist Alice Pooley said it was understood his mother was just nearby at the time.A 20-year-old man accused of knocking out a train guard after attending the UFC 221 event at Perth Arena has made an initial appearance in court.

"Get the f--- away from me," he told media outside the courtroom on Monday.

The man and his supporters outside the court. Credit:Emma Young

The man, along with another man aged 25, was travelling south on the Mandurah line from Perth to Wellard at 3.25pm Sunday.

A police spokeswoman said it would be alleged they were part of a larger group of people who were intoxicated and becoming loud and abusive.Isaac Emmanuel Roberts in court on Monday Credit:Amilia Rosa

Bali: An Australian accountant detained in Bali on drug-smuggling charges still faces the possibility of the death penalty for allegedly importing narcotics into the country, a court has been told.

One-time Liberal Democrats candidate, Isaac Emmanuel Roberts, maintains he is a drug addict and the drugs were for his personal use.

Mr Roberts had the indictment against him formally read out as he faced the first day of his trial in the Denpasar District Court on Monday.

He is facing drug possession and drug importation charges, which carry the maximum penalty of death, after customs officials at Denpasar airport allegedly found 20.54 grams of the drug ice and 14 ecstasy tablets in his luggage on December 4 last year.Rome As US-backed militias in Syria capture a growing number of Islamic State militants, Washington wants to see foreign fighters returned to their countries of origin for prosecution, a senior Pentagon official says.

The question of how to deal with captured foreign fighters received renewed attention when US officials said the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) - an alliance of militias dominated by the Kurdish YPG - had captured two of four militants known as the "Beatles" for their English accents.

IS fighters on parade in Raqqa, Syria in 2014. Credit:AP

A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Washington was in talks with the British about what to do with them but at this point there were no plans to bring them to the US or Guantanamo Bay.

About a dozen members of the coalition fighting Islamic State will meet in Rome this week, where the US, led by Defence Secretary Jim Mattis, will emphasise the need for countries to take back foreign Islamic State detainees.Beijing: The Chinese government has emphasised the need to promote stability in the Asia Pacific while declining to comment directly on Washington's choice of Admiral Harry Harris as the next US ambassador to Australia.

"It's a shared responsibility and expectation of countries in the Asia Pacific region to promote stability and development," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, when asked about Admiral Harris's history of being outspoken on China.

"We hope policies adopted by relevant countries and their relations could be conducive to safeguard and promote peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region."

The nomination of the former US Pacific commander as the next ambassador to Australia is the Trump Administration's attempt to bolster military ties and wedge China, Chinese foreign policy experts say.The attorney general's office said in its statement that it has "substantive basis" to believe the sale would "leave victims without adequate redress, including a lack of a sufficient victims compensation fund." The office "also believes that the proposed terms of the sale would allow the perpetrators or enablers of the misconduct to see a windfall, and allow top officials at TWC who share responsibility for the misconduct to serve in executive positions of the new entity," according to the statement. Authorities in Los Angeles, New York and London have launched criminal investigations into the allegations against Weinstein. He has denied claims that he engaged in nonconsensual sex with women. The company is facing multiple other lawsuits, including a class-action case filed in November that accused the studio of enabling Weinstein's alleged predatory behavior. But Mr Weinstein hit back through his celebrity lawyer Ben Brafman. Brafman issued a statement saying: "We believe that a fair investigation by Mr Schneiderman will demonstrate that many of the allegations against Harvey Weinstein are without merit.

"While Mr. Weinstein's behavior was not without fault, there certainly was no criminality, and at the end of the inquiry it will be clear that Harvey Weinstein promoted more women to key executive positions than any other industry leader and there was zero discrimination at either Miramax or TWC. "If the purpose of the inquiry is to encourage reform throughout the film industry, Mr Weinstein will embrace the investigation. If the purpose however is to scapegoat Mr Weinstein, he will vigorously defend himself." Schneiderman's office launched its civil rights investigation into Weinstein Co. in October, shortly after allegations of sexual misconduct were detailed in The New York Times and the New Yorker. Schneiderman issued a subpoena for company documents as part of an investigation into whether officials at the film and television company violated state civil rights and New York City human rights laws. The 38-page complaint alleges that the Weinstein Co. board of directors and executives failed to protect employees or curb Harvey Weinstein's misconduct, despite widespread knowledge of his behaviour and numerous complaints to the company's human resources department. Groups of predominantly female employees, described in the complaint as members of Harvey Weinstein's "roster" or his "wing women," were made to facilitate Weinstein's sexual conquests, the suit says. Representatives for Weinstein Co., Yucaipa and Contreras-Sweet declined to comment.

Schneiderman's office has questioned the possible appointment of Weinstein Co. President and Chief Operating Officer David Glasser as chief executive because he served as Harvey Weinstein's right-hand man for years and essentially ran the business, according to a person familiar with the matter. A representative for Glasser declined to comment. According to a document reviewed by the Los Angeles Times, the attorney general's office has been seeking assurances that the company will establish a fund that will adequately compensate accusers. The office has also demanded that the company put into escrow any proceeds from the sale that would go to Harvey Weinstein or his brother, Bob, who co-founded the studio in 2005. Schneiderman's office has also demanded oversight over the company as part of the purchase agreement to ensure that the new company takes adequate steps to protect employees. Contreras-Sweet balked at the demand for government oversight, said two people familiar with the matter who were not authorized to comment. "We expressed to them how important it is that any deal adequately compensate victims, protect employees, and not reward those who enabled or perpetuated this egregious sexual misconduct," said Amy Spitalnick, press secretary for the office of the New York attorney general, in an emailed statement. "We were surprised to learn they were not serious about discussing any of those issues or even sharing the most basic information about how they planned to address them."Womens groups and human rights advocates have condemned Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte for encouraging soldiers to shoot female rebels in their genitals, the latest in a series of violent, misogynist remarks.

Duterte, a former provincial mayor, told a group of former communist rebels to tell the soldierstheres a new order from the mayor. We wont kill you. We will just shoot your vagina.

If there is no vagina, it would be useless, he said, appearing to imply that women are useless without their genitals.

President Rodrigo Duterte told soldiers to shoot female rebels' genitals. Credit:Bloomberg

The Presidents Communications Office included the comments in the official transcript of a speech but replaced the word vagina with a dash.Jakarta. A knife-wielding attacker has wounded four churchgoers in the Indonesian city of Yogyakarta before being shot and wounded by police.

Police are as yet unsure if it was a terrorism-related incident.

Blood stains the aisle at the Yogyakarta church. Credit:AP

Police said they were investigating possible motives for the attack by the suspect, believed to be a university student, at a Catholic church service in Yogyakarta, widely known as the cultural centre of Indonesia's main island of Java.

The condition of the wounded people was not immediately clear. Among them was a German-born priest who had been leading the service and who had lived in Indonesia for decades, according to a fellow priest, Dwi Harsanto.Bangkok: An Australian man who has died in a bar fight in the notorious red light district of the Thai resort city of Pattaya has been identified.

Local media has named the victim as Melbourne man Benjamin Robb and published a photo of his Victorian driver's licence.

The 42-year-old Newport resident was rushed to Pattaya Memorial Hospital but died hours after the attack.

It is believed Mr Robb was involved in a brawl a popular nightspot, Ruby Bar, in Pattaya with four or five "foreigners" who were drunk and acting aggressively, according to reports on social media.The jails are filling with shopkeepers arrested for unpaid debts; the talk on the streets is of homes being robbed. The boys who skip school to hawk fresh mint or wipe car windshields face brutal competition. At open-air markets, shelves remain mostly full, but vendors sit around reading the Quran. There are no buyers, the sellers say. There is no money. UN officials warn that Gaza is nearing total collapse, with medical supplies dwindling, clinics closing and 12-hour power outages threatening hospitals. The water is almost entirely undrinkable, and raw sewage is befouling beaches and fishing grounds. Israeli officials and aid workers are bracing for a cholera outbreak any day. Palestinians wait for their turn to enter the Rafah border crossing with Egypt in the southern Gaza Strip last week. Credit:AP Israel has blockaded Gaza for more than decade, with severe restrictions on the flow of goods into the territory and people out of it, hoping to contain Hamas and also, perhaps, to pressure Gazans to eventually oust the group from power.

For years, Hamas sidestepped the Israeli siege and generated revenue by taxing goods smuggled in through tunnels from Sinai. But President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi of Egypt, after taking power in 2013, choked off Hamas  an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood, which Sissi sees as a threat  by shutting the main border crossing at Rafah for long stretches. Egypt, which has no interest in becoming Gaza's de facto administrator, used that pressure to force Hamas to close the Sinai tunnels. Tunnels are being closed off. Credit:AP For Hamas, the deteriorating situation is leaving it with few options. The one it has resorted to three times  going to war with Israel, in hopes of generating international sympathy and relief in the aftermath  suddenly seems least attractive. Hamas can count on little aid now from the Arab world, let alone beyond. And Israel, in an underground-barrier project with a nearly $1 billion price tag, is steadily sealing its border to the attack tunnels into Israel that Gaza militants spent years digging.

The collapsing tunnel enterprise, in a way, neatly captures where Hamas finds itself: with no good way out. Hopes raised, then dashed Last year, the Palestinian Authority's president, Mahmoud Abbas, ratcheted up the pressure on Hamas, stopping its payments for fuel for Gaza's power station and to Israel for electrical transmission into the Gaza Strip. It slashed the salaries of thousands of its workers who remained on its payroll in Gaza, even though they no longer had jobs to do after Hamas took power. Those measures forced Hamas into reconciliation talks that kindled new hopes, reaching their peak in a much-heralded October agreement in Cairo. Hamas is looked in a battle with Fatah. Credit:AFP

Hamas, eager to rid itself of the burdens of governing  though unwilling to disarm its military wing  showed flexibility at the talks, quickly ceding control over border crossings like the one with Israel at Kerem Shalom, and the tax collections there that had provided it with some $20 million a month. But a series of missed deadlines for handing over governance to the Palestinian Authority, and the removal last month of the Egyptian intelligence chief who had brokered the reconciliation talks, have dashed hopes and left the two factions squabbling, the rapprochement slowly bleeding out. Hamas now refuses to relinquish its collection of taxes inside Gaza until the Palestinian Authority starts paying the salaries of public employees. But the authority is refusing to do that until Hamas hands over the internal revenue stream. "The most hard-line people in the PA believe they need full capitulation from Hamas, including the dismantling of its military," said Nathan Thrall, an analyst for International Crisis Group who closely monitors Gaza. "The vast majority of Palestinians see that as wholly unrealistic. But the PA thinks that strategy is working. So they think the pressure should continue, and they'll get even more."

As Gaza's buying power plummets, imports through Kerem Shalom are falling  from a monthly average of 9720 truckloads last year to just 7855 in January  which will only cut Hamas' revenue more. "Abu Mazen has punished all of us, not only Hamas," Fawzi Barhoum, the chief Hamas spokesman in Gaza, said in an interview, using Abbas' nickname. For the moment, those with money in Gaza are trying to help those without. A few merchants have forgiven customers' debts. The Gaza Chamber of Commerce paid $35,000 to get 107 indebted merchants temporarily released from jail. A donor gave 1,000 liters of fuel to a hospital for its generator. But the fuel quickly ran out. Gestures only help so much. And Gaza residents invariably say that war is coming. Hamas is under no illusions that it would fare better in the next fight than it did after its 2014 battle with Israel, Thrall said.London. The Queen has been inspired by Sir David Attenborough to join the campaign to reduce the use of plastic, banning straws and bottles from the royal estates.

Buckingham Palace outlined new waste plans and said there was a "strong desire to tackle the issue" at the highest levels of the royal household.

The Queen wants to reduce plastic waste.

It is thought that the Queen became personally interested in the problem of plastic after working with Sir David on a conservation documentary dealing with wildlife in the Commonwealth.

The pair, both 91, were filmed laughing and joking together during the program, which discussed plans to create a network of national forested parks across the 52 countries of the Commonwealth.GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Part of the landfill on Pond Island is on fire. Due to high winds, the flames have flared up.

The Fire Department, is advising persons living downwind from the landfill fire, to close windows and doors.

Smoke can cause discomfort to persons who have a respiratory challenge, and for persons who suffer from asthma, shortness of breath, or any other respiratory challenges.

The Fire Department is monitoring the situation at the landfill on Pond Island and along with the Landfill Management Company, will take the appropriate measures necessary.PHILIPSBURG  On Sunday morning February 11th Prime Minister Leona Romeo Marlin together with Minister of Finance Michael Ferrier, Minister of Justice Cornelius Deweever, and Minister of VROMI Miklos Giterson lead a delegation of technocrats to French St. Martin to meet President Daniel Gibbs, Prefet Anne Laubies and their Civil Servants team at the Collectivitie in Marigot.

The rekindling of discussions between both Governments ends a period of 14 months where no talks have taken place. This meeting begins the process of reversing the potential risk of jeopardizing the continuation of important EU funded joint projects that are essential and beneficial to the people of St. Martin / Sint Maarten.

The goal of this initial meeting was to reaffirm the commitment to the St. Martin / Sint Maarten Territorial Cooperation Programme 2014  2020. A progression update on three existing projects was discussed namely; Belle Plaine drainage project, Simpson Bay Lagoon cleanup & Waste to water treatment plant for the Simpson Bay / Cole Bay area.

The waste to energy solution for the sanitary landfill/dump was also discussed as a possible 4th project but those discussions are preliminary and exploratory in nature at this early juncture as both sides still require much more research and development before going forward with any possible proposal.

In conclusion, both Governments expressed the need for a unified message when having discussions with their respective European counterparts on issues of mutual cooperation. They also conveyed that cooperation on a local level must continue on a structural basis and the historical unity and cooperation that has been displayed for many years must continue to be an example for countries in the world to recognize and admire.PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament and leader of the United St. Maarten (US) party Frans Richardson is calling on GEBE to at least explain to residents of Cay Bay why they are still without electricity 6 months after the passing of hurricane Irma.

Richardson said while he fully compliments the staff and management of GEBE for the work they have done in restoring St. Maarten utilities, he was surprised to learn that there are pockets in Cay Bay and other areas still without electricity.

We all know of the exceptional job GEBE has done over the past few months, but when speaking to folks in Cay Bay recently, I was caught totally off-guard that they are still without electricity. I think it behooves GEBE to provide an explanation to these citizens about their electricity supply. They havent heard anything in quite some time, MP Richardson said.

After experiencing the situation in Cay Bay, Richardson said he was told of similar situations elsewhere but could not confirm that. Bottom line is people just appreciate updates. And at this stage, they want a solution. Six months after the storm is a very long time. Im calling on GEBE to explain and if at all possible expedite its efforts so these good people can get electricity restored sooner rather than later.Trump to unveil $1.5 trillion infrastructure plan



Washington, Feb 11 (AFP) Feb 11, 2018



Donald Trump's administration will sketch out more details of its plan to invest in America's creaking infrastructure Monday, hoping it can leverage up to $1.5 trillion for the cause.

Senior White House officials said the president's budget, due to be released on Monday, will include $200 billion earmarked for projects to fix roads, bridges and other crucial infrastructure.

Under the proposals, states and private investors would put up the remaining $1.3 trillion.

Trump, playing up his background in construction, had made fixing US infrastructure a core campaign pledge and already announced the $1.5 trillion plan in his State of the Union address last month.

On Monday, the administration will put more flesh on the bones, including ideas for cutting the length of the permitting process to two years.

"Infrastructure is obviously a critical component to the functioning of our economy, a lot of American success is a result of the quality of the infrastructure we have had historically," said a senior White House official.

"But the current system is fundamentally broken."

"We are under-investing in our infrastructure and we have a permitting process that takes so long that even when funds are adequate it can take a decade to build critical infrastructure."

It will now be up to Congress to discuss the proposal and Trump will host lawmakers from both parties at the White House on Wednesday to make his case.

He will likely face fierce questions about what the administration is willing to fund, including questions about whether any money will go to so-called climate-proofing.

The Trump administration has questioned global warming and the president has called it a hoax.

Fiscal hawks are likely to question where the money will come from, so soon after tax and congressional spending deals that are expected to explode the deficit.

The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget has estimated that the spending plan passed by Congress last week will alone increase the deficit by $420 billion over a decade.

The Trump administration says the funding will come from cuts in other programs, which will be outlined in his budget proposal.

White House officials acknowledge the plan is just the opening salvo in the back-and-forth with Congress.

Experts have warned that poor roads, rail and air traffic systems are costing the US economy a fortune.

According to civil engineer Henry Petroski, traffic congestion alone costs the United States $120 billion per year.France FM visits Iraq to discuss reconstruction



Baghdad, Feb 12 (AFP) Feb 12, 2018



France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian visited Iraq on Monday to discuss the war-torn country's reconstruction with Iraqi officials after Baghdad declared victory against the Islamic State jihadist group.

"I have come to tell you of France's support and to accompany you. We will always be there. We were there to participate in the coalition. We will also be there in the reconstruction phase," Le Drian said.

France took part in the US-led military coalition against IS after the jihadist group took over large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria in 2014.

Baghdad is looking to drum up funds at a reconstruction conference in neighbouring Kuwait from Monday to Wednesday after announcing the defeat of IS nationwide at the end of last year.France FM visits Iraq to discuss reconstruction



Baghdad, Feb 12 (AFP) Feb 12, 2018



France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian visited Iraq on Monday to discuss the war-torn country's reconstruction after Baghdad declared victory against the Islamic State jihadist group.

"I have come to tell you of France's support and to accompany you. We will always be there. We were there to participate in the coalition. We will also be there in the reconstruction phase," Le Drian said.

France has been a key member of the US-led military coalition fighting IS after the jihadist group seized large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria in 2014.

Baghdad is looking to drum up funds at a reconstruction conference in neighbouring Kuwait from Monday to Wednesday after announcing the defeat of IS nationwide at the end of last year.

"We hope French expertise will be used for the reconstruction," Iraq's Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari replied.

Le Drian, who previously visited Baghdad in August last year, is also to meet Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, President Fuad Massum and parliament speaker Salim al-Juburi.

During his visit, he is expected to stress the importance of involving the Shiite-majority country's Sunni community in national reconciliation ahead of general elections in May, members of the minister's entourage said.

He is also to express France's opposition to any death penalty for two French women awaiting trial in Iraq over accusations of joining IS.

They risk the death penalty under the country's counter-terrorism law.

The United Nations urged Iraq to halt all executions after it learnt of 106 in the country last year.

Iraq is still reeling from the rise of IS and the punishing fightback it took to crush the jihadists, with swathes of its territory in ruins and millions of people displaced.

Authorities in the resource-rich nation say there has been a heavy toll on oil, electricity and manufacturing infrastructure, as well as basic services such as water and sanitation.

Iraq needs $88.2 billion to rebuild after years of war against the Islamic State group, Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili said Monday.

In 2017, France lent 430 million euros (more than $500 million) to oil-rich Iraq, whose coffers have suffered from the war against IS and a drop in world crude prices.

Le Drian is also on Monday to head to Iraqi Kurdistan, an autonomous region hit by a political and economic crisis after a controversial independence referendum led to Baghdad retaking the oil-rich province of Kirkuk from the Kurds last year.

The French envoy is then to head to Kuwait to attend the Iraq reconstruction conference on Tuesday and a meeting of the anti-IS coalition with his US counterpart Rex Tillerson.Tillerson says 'too early' for direct talks with N. Korea



Cairo, Feb 12 (AFP) Feb 12, 2018



US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Monday it was "too early" to discuss direct negotiations with North Korea, after Vice President Mike Pence said the US was open to talks.

Pence was quoted in the Washington Post on Sunday as saying the US and South Korea had agreed terms for future diplomatic engagement with North Korea.

He said the United States and its allies would impose "steep and escalating costs" on Pyongyang until it takes "clear steps toward denuclearisation".

But he said the White House was willing to "sit down and talk with the regime while that pressure campaign is ongoing".

"If you want to talk, we'll talk," the paper quoted him as saying.

Asked about the article during a visit to Egypt, Tillerson said: "I think it's too early to judge."

"We've said for some time it's really up to the North Koreans to decide when they're ready to engage with us in a sincere way, a meaningful way," he said.

"They know what has to be on the table for conversations."

He said it was important first "to determine whether the parties are in fact ready to engage in something that's meaningful."

President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have exchanged a series of personal insults.

Pence's comments come at a time of reconciliation between the two Koreas, which are still technically at war.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has used the Winter Olympics hosted by South Korea to unleash a diplomatic charm offensive.

But Pence, speaking to reporters on Saturday, stressed "the need to continue to isolate North Korea economically and diplomatically until they abandon their nuclear and ballistic missile program."France FM calls for Iraq reconciliation ahead of poll



Baghdad, Feb 12 (AFP) Feb 12, 2018



France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Monday urged Iraq to push for national reconciliation with its Sunnis and Kurds ahead of "inclusive" elections.

On a visit to Baghdad following the country's December declaration of victory over the Islamic State group, he said France would play its part in the country's reconstruction and called for peaceful general elections in May.

"The electoral process (must) take place under the best conditions and be based on an inclusive logic," he said, urging respect for "the different communities of the whole of Iraq, be it the Sunnis, the Yazidis, the Christian minorities, the Kurds."

"We are in a period when Iraq needs stability, reconstruction and reconciliation," he added, saying that would pave the way to "peaceful elections and... an inclusive government".

Le Drian, who previously visited Baghdad in August last year, also met Iraq's Shiite Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, Sunni President Fuad Massum and Kurdish parliament speaker Salim al-Juburi.

France has been a key member of the US-led military coalition fighting IS after the jihadist group seized large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria in 2014.

Baghdad is looking to drum up funds at a reconstruction conference in neighbouring Kuwait from Monday to Wednesday after announcing the nationwide defeat of IS.

Officials say it needs nearly $90 billion to rebuild after three years of war against IS.

"We have been present in the fight against Daesh, we must be present in peace," Le Drian said, using an Arabic acronym for IS.

"We were there to participate in the coalition. We will also be there in the reconstruction phase," he added.

Iraq's Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari called for French expertise to be used in the reconstruction.



- 'Jihadists' face execution -



Le Drian said he had told officials France opposed the death penalty for two French women awaiting trial in Iraq over accusations of joining IS.

They risk execution under the country's counter-terrorism law.

"As happens every time a French is potentially condemned, we act very strongly to make our position known, but for now the procedure has not started," he said.

But he added that suspected jihadists should face trial in the countries where they committed their "crimes".

The United Nations urged Iraq to halt all executions, saying 106 took place in the country last year.

Iraq is still reeling from the rise of IS and the punishing fightback it took to crush the jihadists, with swathes of its territory in ruins and millions of people displaced.

Authorities in the resource-rich nation say there has been a heavy toll on oil, electricity and manufacturing infrastructure, as well as basic services such as water and sanitation.

Iraq needs $88.2 billion to rebuild after years of war against the Islamic State group, Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili said Monday.

In 2017, France lent 430 million euros (more than $500 million) to oil-rich Iraq, whose coffers have suffered from the war against IS and a drop in world crude prices.

Le Drian also headed to Iraqi Kurdistan to meet leaders of the autonomous region, hit by a political and economic crisis after a September independence referendum bitterly opposed by Baghdad.

The French minister is then to head to Kuwait to attend the Iraq reconstruction conference on Tuesday and a meeting of the anti-IS coalition with his US counterpart Rex Tillerson.Iraq sentences ex-minister to 21 years for corruption



Baghdad, Feb 12 (AFP) Feb 12, 2018



Iraq on Monday sentenced a former trade minister to 21 years in jail for corruption, weeks after Interpol handed him to authorities, a government source said.

Abdel Falah al-Sudani, who served as trade minister following the 2003 US-led invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein, was handed two seven-year sentences for "negligence" by an anti-corruption court.

He was also sentenced to seven additional years for misconduct, bringing the total to 23.

Sudani, a 70-year-old who also holds British citizenship, had been placed on an Interpol wanted list in June 2014 and arrested at Beirut's international airport in September last year.

Interpol handed him over to Iraqi authorities on January 25.

Sudani served as trade minister from 2006 to 2009 in the government of ex-premier Nuri al-Maliki following the 2003 US-led invasion.

In 2012, the former minister, who belongs to the Dawa party of Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, was sentenced in absentia to seven years imprisonment for corruption, but faced retrial after his arrest and extradition.

He still faces trials in six other cases.

During his mandate he was linked to a scandal over the importation of adulterated tea.

In 2009, he was arrested as he tried to flee Iraq after having been sacked and charged. He was released on payment of a bail of $43,000 but fled again.

Iraq in 2016 was ranked 11th from bottom on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index.

Sudani's return was "the first time that Interpol responds to a government request at that level," a government source said when he was handed over in January.France FM calls for Iraq reconciliation ahead of poll



Baghdad, Feb 12 (AFP) Feb 12, 2018



France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Monday urged Iraq to push for national reconciliation with its minority Sunni and Kurd communities ahead of "inclusive" elections.

On a visit to Baghdad following its December declaration of victory over the Islamic State group, he said France would play its part in Iraq's reconstruction and called for peaceful general elections in May.

"The electoral process (must) take place under the best conditions and be based on an inclusive logic," he said, urging respect for "the different communities of the whole of Iraq, be it the Sunnis, the Yazidis, the Christian minorities, the Kurds."

"We are in a period when Iraq needs stability, reconstruction and reconciliation," he added, saying that would pave the way to "peaceful elections and... an inclusive government".

Le Drian, who previously visited Baghdad in August last year, also met Iraq's Shiite Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, Sunni President Fuad Massum and Kurdish parliament speaker Salim al-Juburi.

France has been a key member of the US-led military coalition fighting IS after the jihadist group seized large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria in 2014.

Baghdad is looking to drum up funds at a reconstruction conference in neighbouring Kuwait from Monday to Wednesday after announcing the nationwide defeat of IS.

"We have been present in the fight against Daesh, we must be present in peace," Le Drian said, using an Arabic acronym for IS.

"We were there to participate in the coalition. We will also be there in the reconstruction phase," he added.

Iraq's Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari called for French expertise to be used in the reconstruction.



- 'Jihadists' face execution -



Le Drian also expressed France's opposition to any death penalty for two French women awaiting trial in Iraq over accusations of joining IS.

They risk the death penalty under the country's counter-terrorism law.

"As happens every time a French is potentially condemned, we act very strongly to make our position known, but for now the procedure has not started," he said.

But he added that suspected jihadists should face trial in the countries where they committed their "crimes".

The United Nations urged Iraq to halt all executions after it learnt of 106 in the country last year.

Iraq is still reeling from the rise of IS and the punishing fightback it took to crush the jihadists, with swathes of its territory in ruins and millions of people displaced.

Authorities in the resource-rich nation say there has been a heavy toll on oil, electricity and manufacturing infrastructure, as well as basic services such as water and sanitation.

Iraq needs $88.2 billion to rebuild after years of war against the Islamic State group, Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili said Monday.

In 2017, France lent 430 million euros (more than $500 million) to oil-rich Iraq, whose coffers have suffered from the war against IS and a drop in world crude prices.

Le Drian also headed to Iraqi Kurdistan, where he met leaders of the autonomous region, which has been hit by a political and economic crisis after a September independence referendum bitterly opposed by Baghdad.

"It is really very desirable that the two parties overcome their differences, and this is the message that I am conveying," he told journalists.

The French envoy is to travel on to Kuwait to attend the Iraq reconstruction conference on Tuesday and a meeting of the anti-IS coalition with his US counterpart Rex Tillerson.Poachers kill six troops, two others in Cameroon wildlife park



Yaounde, Feb 12 (AFP) Feb 12, 2018



Poachers killed six troops and two guides in a wildlife park in northern Cameroon, Defence Minister Joseph Beti Assomo said Monday.

"Six members of the defence forces and two civilian guides were killed " on Thursday during a clash with heavily-armed men on horseback in Bouba Ndjida national park in the north of the country, Beti Assomo said in a statement aired on rate radio.

In 2012, 128 elephants were killed in the Bouba Ndjida park within two months, according to the government. The Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) put the figure at 480.

The WWF attributed that massacre to poachers from Sudan and Chad.

Since March 2012, Cameroon has deployed a hundred troops in the wildlife reserve to help deal with the threat from poachers and protect the elephant population for which the park is known.

The eight people killed in Thursday's violence were carrying out a routine patrol, source said.

Poaching has killed an estimated 110,000 elephants over the last decade, with transnational organised crime syndicates taking over the illicit trade.

The most recent figures, for 2016, showed the global trade in illegal ivory continues to thrive in light of record seizures despite a decline in poaching.

According to the Great Elephant Census in 2016, the first ever pan-African survey of savanna elephants, numbers are estimated to have fallen to 352,000, down from 1.3 million in 1979.Optimization

Are you frustrated with a slow pc or a hard disk not performing as it should?

Try SLOW-PCfighter to speed up boot time on a slow PC, or try a free scan of FULL-DISKfighter to recover space on a full disk. The latest offering is DRIVERfighter to update your driver updater. Get complete PC optimization and extend the life of your PC with these must-have software tools.Chaos in Berlin Schulz, Merkel and How Not to Negotiate a Coalition

It looked like Martin Schulz of the Social Democrats had finally one-upped Chancellor Merkel. But then, just as his party secured key cabinet positions in Germany's potential new government, he messed everything up. And Merkel's position isn't much better.

Von SPIEGEL StaffEnglish11/02/2018

SRNA News Roundup /I/ February 11, 2018

REPUBLIKA SRPSKA



PRNJAVOR - Minister of Education and Culture of Republika Srpska, Dane Malesevic, has stated that the Government of Srpska allocates certain funds for cultural projects for national minorities each year, therefore there will be approximately BAM 40,000 earmarked for that purpose this year.



TREBINJE - His Eminence Bishop Grigorije of Zahumlje-Herzegovina and the Littoral closed the fifth symposium "Theology in Public Sphere" Saturday evening in Trebinje, assessing that the gathering met the expectations thanks to outstanding lecturers and numerous attendees who actively participated in the discussions.



BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA



BELGRADE - Stevica Dedjanski, a professor, has said he expects all relevant Serb political factors to condemn the statement by BiH Security Minister Dragan Mektic regarding the events in Srebrenica, and the West can take him and let him run for the Nobel Prize.



SARAJEVO - Last year, BiH exported goods worth BAM 1, 157 million to Serbia, which is an increase of 31.28 percent compared to the previous year.



SERBIA



NEW YORK- Serbian Minister of Demography and Population Policy, Slavica Djukic Dejanovic, says that Serbia will lose nearly 1.5 million citizens by 2050, if the negative demographic trend continues, and in the past ten years it has remained without a city the size of Novi Sad.



BELGRADE - Serbian Interior Minister Nebojsa Stefanovic has stated that he was informed that some information about the murder of Oliver Ivanovic reached the Ministry of Justice of Serbia, but he saw nothing more significant.



BELGRADE - Serbian Interior Minister Nebojsa Stefanovic has stated that since the beginning, many problems have arisen regarding Serbian President Aleksandar Vucics visit to Croatia, and that announcing the route he would take is not a common practice.



BELGRADE - Kosovo is undoubtedly a part of Serbia and its recognition is Serbias issue only, thus putting a pressure on it to admit Kosovo is the wrong way, Austrian Vice-Chancellor, Heinz-Christian Strache, stated prior to his visit to Belgrade.



BELGRADE - A protest will be organised in Prague on February 17 for the unilateral proclamation of Kosovo's independence, and a petition will be signed for the Czechs withdrawal of the recognition of self-proclaimed Kosovo, reports Belgrade's Vecernje Novosti.



KOSOVSKA MITROVICA - Two members of the Kosovo police service have been detained for failing to provide evidence regarding the killing of Oliver Ivanovic, the leader of the Civic Initiative Freedom, Democracy, Justice, the Kosovo police informed SRNA.



BELGRADE - Vasilije Krestic, an academician, has stated that the goals of Croatias politics in the last 150 years are the same - Croatia has been cleared of Serbs, the border on the Drina River and annexation of parts of Vojvodina, which all Serbian politicians negotiating with Zagreb should be aware of.



REGION



BELGRADE - Leader of the Serbian National Council /SNV/, Milorad Pupovac, has said it is reasonable to "stop the eruption of debates about painful historical issues" about which there is no consensus between Croatia and Serbia in order to create an atmosphere of better communication between the two countries.



BELGRADE - The Hague Tribunal, apart from the United Nations, is also funded by donations from the foundations: Rockefeller, George Soros, Arab countries, but also from the "black channels", reports the Belgrade-based Vecernje Novosti.



SKOPJE - Macedonian communities around the world have announced "all-out protest" to defend the name of the state and the identity of the nation. /end/vosEnglish11/02/2018

SRNA News Roundup /II/ February 11, 2018





REPUBLIKA SRPSKA



BANJALUKA - Republika Srpska National Assembly Speaker, Nedeljko Cubrilovic, has said that the statement on Srebrenica events by BiH Security Minister of the Council of Ministers, Dragan Mektic, is not a good message, so Srpskas official positions should be abided by, as the crime was committed in Srebrenica but there is no theoretical definition proving it was genocide.



BANJALUKA - Republika Srpska was created based on the desire and determination of the Serb people to live in freedom, and approximately 30,000 people gave their lives for its creation and defence, thus no political party, organisation or individual can question incontrovertible historical facts, reads SNSDs statement.



BANJALUKA  Head of the DNS City Board, Nedeljko Cubrilovic, today handed in approximately 100 membership IDs to new members of the board, who joined the party for the past several months, and stressed that they are a confirmation that this party has strong support in the people.



BANJALUKA - Head of the DNS City Board, Nedeljko Cubrilovic, has said that the party in the National Assembly of Republika Srpska will support decisions aimed at the development of Republika Srpska.



BANJALUKA - PDP Leader Branislav Borenovic has said that terrible crimes were committed during the past war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in Srebrenica and its surrounding, and that all peoples were suffering, but that no people should bear responsibility for the acts of individuals.



BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA



BELGRADE - Serbian Minister of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications, Rasim Ljajic, and Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of BiH, Mirko Sarovic, agreed today that a common goal in 2018 is to reach close to EUR 2 billion of trade, and further abolition of non-customs barriers between Serbia and BiH is the precondition for this.



SARAJEVO - Amendments to the Election Law are a matter of all issues for Croats that are meager people in BiH, BiH Presidency Chairman Dragan Covic has said.



SERBIA



BELGRADE - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has stated that Belgrade wants the investigation of Oliver Ivanovics murder to speed up and give the outcome as soon as possible.



BELGRADE - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said today that he will travel to Croatia, he is not bothered by the campaign over there and believes that there are no security threats.



REGION



ZAGREB - Several hundred persons from all parts of the Croatian security system are involved in the security operation for Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's visit to Croatia, and the sniper teams of the Lucko Anti-Terrorist Unit will also be ready, since Vucics arrival is one of the major challenges for Croatian security services, reports Zagreb's Jutarnji List. /end/vosEnglish11/02/2018

SRNA News Roundup /III/- February 11, 2018





REPUBLIKA SRPSKA



BELGRADE - Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik told SRNA today that Serbia is undoubtedly one of the most important countries in the region for stability and security, and that the visit of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to Zagreb is a good opportunity for Serbia and Croatia to start a dialogue and try to solve many issues that have so far been a problem.



BANJALUKA  Advisor to Republika Srpska National Assembly Speaker, Mile Dmicic, said today in Vicenza, at the celebration of the Republika Srpska Day  January 9 that the republic day is a historical, legal and political fact, therefore no local, neither an international organisation nor an association can terminate it.



BELGRADE - SDS leader Vukota Govedarica stated today that the statement by BiH Security Minister Dragan Mektic that "the Serbs must pass catharsis and recognize the genocide in Srebrenica" is not the position of either Mektic or the SDS.



BANJALUKA - The Aliance of War Invalids of Republika Srpska fully rejects the claims and opinions of all those who say that genocide took place in Srebrenica, including the statements given by the Minister of Security in the Council of Ministers of BiH, Dragan Mektic.



BANJALUKA - Representatives of the United Srpska Party have called on all young people who went abroad from Republika Srpska to study to return after the school is completed and to help the development of Republika Srpska and creation of a better and promising future.



BANJALUKA - The construction of the Banjaluka-Doboj motorway - January 9, as the most important infrastructure project in Republika Srpska, is going to cost approximately EUR 402 million, as provided through credit arrangements with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development /EBRD/ and the European Investment Bank /EIB/, the Republika Srpska Motorways Company announced.



BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA



BELGRADE  BiH Security Minister, Dragan Mektic, with his statement that the Serbs "must recognize the genocide in Srebrenica" has showed that he is a frivolous and irresponsible man who has no opinion, but has to get it from somebody else, Aleksandar Rakovic, a historian from Belgrade, told SRNA.



SERBIA



BELGRADE - Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Zorana Mihajlovic said today that the Serbian and Croatian peoples have a lot of topics on the economy and the lives of ordinary citizens of both countries on which they can work together and that they should turn to the future. /end/vosWith each respective industry anticipating changes, whether regarding labour or import and export regulations, keeping up-to-date is vital for any successful business  and the British Pig & Poultry Fair will help them do just that. Technology is moving at a fast pace and it is vital that producers remain at the forefront of change, says Fair organiser, Alice Bell. Meeting the suppliers of that technology and networking with industry leaders is a perfect opportunity for producers to source what they need to improve.

In a recent straw poll carried out by the Royal Agricultural Society of England, the vast majority of pig and poultry producers were positive about the future, with 100% planning to invest in their business this year. There are clearly some challenges ahead, but its encouraging that so many farmers are optimistic and embracing the latest technology and advice on offer.

According to an exit poll at the 2016 Fair, 79% of visitors planned to make changes to their business as a result of their visit  and one farmer who made a truly life changing decision in a previous year is Richard Knox, partner at Tor Pigs, Devon. When I was looking to move from an outdoor unit to indoors, I met an experienced manager at the Fair who told me to focus on profitability and put in the tried and tested slatted system so I could closely predict performance. If I had not had that conversation, I probably would not be in pigs now  it was a key turning point for me and a worthwhile investment.Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Chaplains in Westerville, Ohio, and Richardson, Texas, After Law Enforcement Officers Shot and Killed

Contact: Erik Ogren, 704-401-2117, eogren@bgea.org



CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 11, 2018 /Standard Newswire/ -- Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains have deployed to offer emotional and spiritual care in the communities of Westerville, Ohio, and Richardson, Texas, following violence that claimed the lives of police officers.



Officer David Sherrard of the Richardson Police Department was killed last Wednesday, Feb. 7, during a stand-off with a gunman. In Westerville, Officers Anthony Morelli and Eric Joering were responding to a 911 call on Saturday, Feb. 10, when they were killed.



"Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect and serve their communities; to protect and serve all of us," said Jack Munday, international director of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. "Each of these officers has a family that is left in shock and incalculable suffering, their departments are struggling with anguish of their own  while still having to fulfill their ongoing duty  and the communities at large are mourning. The need for prayer is great."



Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, shared, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Officer Anthony Morelli and Officer Eric Joering who were killed in the line of duty just outside of Columbus, Ohio. They were responding to a 911 call. Also pray for the entire Westerville Police Department during this difficult time."



Graham continued, "Pray for these heartbroken families, that they would have God's comfort and healing. The Bible tells us, 'The Lord is near to the brokenhearted' (Psalm 34:18)."



The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team has deployed three times in 2018 following law enforcement-related tragedies. In January, the group offered hope and comfort following the shooting death of Det. Mike Doty of the York County (S.C.) Sheriff's Office.



For more information on the ministry, including videos, photos, news articles and an interactive map of former and current deployments, visit www.billygraham.org/rrt. Updates can also be found at www.facebook.com/RRTChaplains.



About the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team:

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team was developed by Franklin Graham and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. It has since grown into an international network of chaplains in the U.S., U.K., Canada and Australia who are specifically trained to deal with crisis situations. They have deployed to more than 270 disaster sites, including shootings, floods, hurricanes, wildfires and tornadoes.

Blog Archive Apr 2010 (22) May 2010 (25) Jun 2010 (8) Jul 2010 (12) Aug 2010 (18) Sep 2010 (19) Oct 2010 (29) Nov 2010 (30) Dec 2010 (18) Jan 2011 (13) Feb 2011 (21) Mar 2011 (23) Apr 2011 (19) May 2011 (31) Jun 2011 (36) Jul 2011 (46) Aug 2011 (26) Sep 2011 (12) Oct 2011 (15) Nov 2011 (17) Dec 2011 (7) Jan 2012 (18) Feb 2012 (4) Mar 2012 (12) Apr 2012 (18) May 2012 (10) Jun 2012 (21) Jul 2012 (8) Aug 2012 (15) Sep 2012 (7) Oct 2012 (17) Nov 2012 (20) Dec 2012 (10) Jan 2013 (58) Feb 2013 (59) Mar 2013 (60) Apr 2013 (98) May 2013 (135) Jun 2013 (204) Jul 2013 (293) Aug 2013 (351) Sep 2013 (363) Oct 2013 (348) Nov 2013 (374) Dec 2013 (442) Jan 2014 (547) Feb 2014 (476) Mar 2014 (526) Apr 2014 (527) May 2014 (469) Jun 2014 (408) Jul 2014 (472) Aug 2014 (522) Sep 2014 (443) Oct 2014 (472) Nov 2014 (497) Dec 2014 (536) Jan 2015 (539) Feb 2015 (520) Mar 2015 (582) Apr 2015 (658) May 2015 (679) Jun 2015 (673) Jul 2015 (728) Aug 2015 (803) Sep 2015 (923) Oct 2015 (924) Nov 2015 (802) Dec 2015 (791) Jan 2016 (782) Feb 2016 (835) Mar 2016 (929) Apr 2016 (866) May 2016 (947) Jun 2016 (1044) Jul 2016 (882) Aug 2016 (1035) Sep 2016 (967) Oct 2016 (918) Nov 2016 (854) Dec 2016 (885) Jan 2017 (880) Feb 2017 (777) Mar 2017 (896) Apr 2017 (872) May 2017 (850) Jun 2017 (851) Jul 2017 (971) Aug 2017 (1040) Sep 2017 (998) Oct 2017 (1144) Nov 2017 (1046) Dec 2017 (838) Jan 2018 (873) Feb 2018 (769) Mar 2018 (885) Apr 2018 (809) May 2018 (827) Jun 2018 (820) Jul 2018 (840) Aug 2018 (854) Sep 2018 (844) Oct 2018 (851) Nov 2018 (870) Dec 2018 (912) Jan 2019 (919) Feb 2019 (827) Mar 2019 (957) Apr 2019 (913) May 2019 (1007) Jun 2019 (935) Jul 2019 (950) Aug 2019 (936) Sep 2019 (910) Oct 2019 (920) Nov 2019 (874) Dec 2019 (908) Jan 2020 (941) Feb 2020 (849) Mar 2020 (898) Apr 2020 (848) May 2020 (822) Jun 2020 (789) Jul 2020 (819) Aug 2020 (858) Sep 2020 (841) Oct 2020 (873) Nov 2020 (812) Dec 2020 (780) Jan 2021 (765) Feb 2021 (716) Mar 2021 (819) Apr 2021 (805) May 2021 (815) Jun 2021 (824) Jul 2021 (830) Aug 2021 (832) Sep 2021 (358)Shares is the leading weekly publication for retail investors. It is packed with investment ideas, news and educational material to help build and run portfolios and get more from your money.

Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists.WNPS lecture on Global Small Wild Cat Conservation View(s):

This months Wildlife and Nature Protection Society Monthly Lecture  on February 15 at 6 p.m. at the Lotus Room, BMICH, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, will focus on Global Small Wild Cat Conservation. Global authority on wild cats, Dr Jim Sanderson will discuss current conservation efforts addressing threats to several species from South America to China and Sri Lanka.

The lecture is open to all members and non-members and admission is free. Dr Jim Sanderson received a Ph.D from the University of New Mexico in 1976. The Program Manager for Wild Cat Conservation at Global Wildlife Conservation, he is the founder and director of the Small Wild Cat Conservation Foundation, a member of the IUCN Cat Specialist Group, a review board member of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, and a Fellow of Wildlife Conservation Network.Bay of Plenty

Do you want the opportunity to work on one of the busiest ports in New Zealand? Then read on! We have an exciting role for...



View or Apply on GoodWork.co.nzTauranga has recently been described in the annual Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey as the most unaffordable city in New Zealand to buy a new home.

It looks like Aucklanders are less interested with the region than they previously were, says realestate.co.nz spokesperson Vanessa Taylor.

Real time data from realestate.co.nz shows that viewings of listings to the region from Aucklanders has fallen each January over the last three years (January 2016-2018).

Despite this, Bay of Plenty asking prices continue to rise and are at an all-time average high of $637,281 - a 1.6 per cent increase on December 2017.Listings are also in scarce supply in the Bay of Plenty.

The region registered a record low in new property listings compared with January 2017, with 466 new listings (down 12.6 per cent on the previous year).

Vanessa says a less frenetic market in the main centres means purchasers have the time to take a more considered approach.

They can take more time to consider all options, such as whether to sell, buy or renovate, with less competitive pressure to purchase immediately, she says.

Buyers have more time to view all the options and negotiate without the pressure of a hot market.

Asking prices fell in the Auckland region compared to the previous month (-4.0 per cent to $943,543). Falls were also registered in Christchurch (-2.1 per cent) and Otago (1.3 per cent). In the Waikato and Wellington regions, asking prices were relatively stable (+0.5 per cent) in both centres.New Zealand Transport Agency are warning motorists in the Bay of Plenty to drive with caution, as heavy rain in the region has resulted in an increase of potholes and slips on roads.

NZTA Transport System Manager Rob Campbell says several potholes have been reported on the state highway network across the Bay of Plenty.

Potholes form when water gets into cracks in the road. Vehicles drive over the cracks moving the water around and putting it under pressure.

This movement and pressure opens up the cracks which eventually form potholes. They are more common on roads where there is more traffic, particularly trucks.

When we are made aware of potholes we fill them as soon as possible. A temporary fill is usually carried out first and a more permanent repair is scheduled for drier, warmer weather conditions. Pothole repairs just do not work if they are carried out in wet weather.

We understand the frustration that these incidents cause for motorists and we urge people to get in touch with us as soon possible if they spot potholes or other problems.

While we have our own inspectors looking for early signs of potholes they cant be everywhere. So we encourage people who see potholes to call us on 0800 44 44 49 so they can be fixed.

Flooding and slips have also forced the closure of part of the Waioeka Gorge between Opotiki and Gisborne.

The road is closed from the mouth of the gorge to Traffords Hill.

Road users are advised to use State Highway 35 or State Highway 5 if they have to travel.

The slips are being assessed and updates will be provided on social media and the NZTA website.

Motorists can get real time information from:

 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)

 www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic

For Waikato/Bay of Plenty updates:A Fijian national who made up a story that he arrived in New Zealand as a stowaway after his entire family were massacred by a group of Bangladeshi has been sentenced on a representative fraud charge.

Satya Nand was sentenced at the Tauranga District Court earlier today to 29 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to a representative charge under the Crimes Act 1961 of using false documentation to obtain a benefit.

The court heard that between his arrival in New Zealand on a visitor visa in 1996 and 1998 Nand created a new identity - giving himself the name of Rana Khan - and a refugee story.

He claimed he was born in India and went to Bangladesh when he was a year old and that his family were killed when he was 18 years old.

Nand claimed he was persecuted, beaten up and stabbed at the refugee camp in Bangladesh so stowed away on a ship to Hong Kong and eventually New Zealand.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) Assistant General Manager, Peter Devoy, says the entire story was a fabrication.

The defendant had never been to either India or Bangladesh and in fact was in Fiji and New Zealand for the entire time, Mr Devoy says.

But he managed to obtain New Zealand residence and subsequently citizenship after creating for himself a new identity, obtaining identity documents in his false name, completing statutory declarations about his background and using documentation to obtain benefits for himself, his wife and three children.

Nand came up with an elaborate story to fulfil his dream of living in New Zealand. His fraudulent behaviour was despicable, particularly in view of the experiences and suffering many genuine refugees experience.

He was ultimately caught as a result of painstaking investigative work by our compliance officers who managed to locate him under his true Fijian identity and then uncovered his fraud and false identity.

The judge commented how serious this offence was. Todays sentence shows such behaviour will not be tolerated and acts as a strong deterrent.Seth Wenig | AP

by Geoff Herbert | gherbert@syracuse.com

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Omarosa hospitalized

Days after criticizing President Donald Trump's White House, "Celebrity Big Brother" star Omarosa Manigault Newman was rushed to the hospital due to an asthma attack. The 44-year-old reality TV personality was upstaged by Marissa Jaret Winokur during the "Bowlarina" challenge, and she quickly grabbed her inhaler and ran out of the house. "I couldn't breathe," she later explained. Omarosa, who first rose to fame on "The Apprentice," recently left her job as the former White House director of communications for the Office of Public Liaison, though a WH official said she was "fired" after she criticized Trump's tweets last week. After her brief hospitalization, CBS says she's back on "Big Brother," which returns Monday at 8 p.m. ET.

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Idris Elba engaged

Idris Elba is engaged! The 45-year-old actor surprised fans at a screening of his new film, "Yardie," by bending down on one knee to propose to Sabrina Dhowre in London on Saturday. ET reports the 29-year-old model, who was Miss Vancouver 2014, has been dating Elba since they met while he was filming "The Mountain Between Us" in Canada last year. This will be Elba's third marriage; he has a 15-year-old daughter with his first wife, Kim Norgaard, and a 3-year-old son with his ex-girlfriend Naiyana Garth.

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Arthur Mola | AP

Director Idris Elba, right, poses with Sabrina Dhowre during the premiere of "Yardie" at the Ray Theatre during the 2018 Sundance Film Festival on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2018, in Park City, Utah.

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'Grinch' reboot

If you've been watching the 2018 Olympics, you may have noticed someone else is also a fan of winter sports: The Grinch. A teaser trailer debuted over the weekend giving fans their for first look at the Illumination Entertainment reboot of Dr. Seuss' "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." The 3D animated film, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the character last portrayed on the big screen by Jim Carrey, will arrive Nov. 9.

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King of Wishful Thinking

Paul Rudd and Jimmy Fallon teamed up for a hilarious shot-for-shot remake of Go West's "King of Wishful Thinking" music video. The duo dances and sings with ridiculous wigs and glasses to spoof the 1990 song from "Pretty Woman," even featuring a woman dressed up like Julia Roberts' character. Fallon has previously done similar gags for songs by Styx and Extreme.

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Liam Neeson as Cupid

And since it's almost Valentine's Day, how about Liam Neeson as Cupid? The "Taken" star followed up his fake Santa audition video for Stephen Colbert's "The Late Show" with a new funny video trying out for the role of a matchmaker. "If you two don't fall in love, I will look for you, I will find you and I will change your relationship status to 'It's complicated,'" he says while wielding a bow and arrow.

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More Buzz

Kim Cattrall slams Sarah Jessica Parker's fake condolences ( WP

James Franco returning to HBO show after misconduct allegations ( DN

Dane Cook, 45, spotted on date with 19-year-old girlfriend ( E!

Cardi B attacked by a cheetah on set of 'Bodak Yellow' video ( DM

'Catastrophe' star Rob Delaney's son, 2, dies of brain cancer ( ET

Marlon Brando's son denies actor slept with Richard Pryor ( TMZ

Amy Schumer's 'I Feel Pretty' already drawing backlash ( NYDN

Chicago Bulls send 'Chicago West' jersey to Kim Kardashian ( E!

Kathy Griffin returns to red carpet months after Trump controversy ( DM

Judd Apatow's daughter Maude, 20, makes directorial debut ( ET

Gucci Mane biopic in the works based on rapper's autobiography ( BB

'GMA' star Ginger Zee welcomes second child, a baby boy ( ABC

'Psycho,' 'Imitation of Life' actor John Gavin dies at 86 ( THR

'Sicario,' 'Arrival' composter Johann Johannson dies at 48 ( AP

'House of Cards,' 'The Wire' actor Reg E. McCarthy dies at 59 ( AL

Leslie Jones offers hilarious tweets during Olympics ( E!

Rita Ora poses nude for racy sunset photo shoot on beach ( DM

NY AG files lawsuit against Harvey Weinstein ( AP

Gigi Hadid hits out at body-shamers, talks Hashimoto's disease ( ET

Garth Brooks is first inductee in new Live Music Hall of Fame ( RS

Shay Mitchell runs topless in L.A. to celebrate 3M YouTube fans ( E!

Megan Mullaly says a 'Will & Grace' musical could happen ( DM

AM Buzz is a weekday morning feature on syracuse.com where we'll post the latest in viral videos, trending topics, celebrity gossip and entertainment news.AUBURN, N.Y. -- An Auburn prison guard has been accused of waterboarding two inmates and brutally beating them in their genitals in two separate incidents, according to media reports.

The New York Daily News reported Sunday that Lt. Troy Mitchell, a guard at the Auburn Correctional Facility, was accused in court papers of pouring buckets of water over the mouths and noses of two shackled inmates.

Mitchell, who has been a prison guard since 1986, has been suspended without pay since August, the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision told the newspaper.

Mitchell, who had the help of other guards, is also accused in court papers of grabbing and twisting the inmates' genitals and then punching and whacking their groins with a baton, the newspaper reported.

One of the alleged incidents happened on Sept. 14, 2016 involving inmate Matthew Raymond.

Raymond suffered permanent injury from Mitchell's alleged attack, the paper said. He now needs a catheter to urinate, according to civil court documents filed by Raymond's lawyer, Joan Magoolaghan, in Albany Supreme Court, the newspaper reported.

Raymond's accusations were previously investigated by the inspector general's office for the state DOCCS. His accusations were unfounded, according to the report.

But the office reopened its investigation when a second prisoner made an identical claim against Mitchell, the newspaper reported. Magoolaghan's civil filing also notes, according to the newspaper, that a third Auburn inmate made similar complaints against Mitchell before September 2016.

Details of the other incidents were not available.

On Sept. 14, 2016, Raymond, 29, suffered a seizure and was transferred to an Auburn hospital in handcuffs and a belly chain. Raymond, who had a traumatic brain injury before he went to prison and suffers seizures, accused Mitchell of attacking him after he returned to the prison from the hospital, the newspaper reported.

Officers later accused Raymond of being disruptive at the hospital, a claim that is denied by his lawyer. Raymond was quickly discharged after seeing a nurse practitioner and returned to the correctional facility. On the trip home, he suffered another seizure and vomited on himself, according to the report.

At the prison, he was taken to a small room in a medical unit, where Mitchell and five other officers attacked him while he was shackled, the legal filing says, according to the newspaper.

The assault began with waterboarding and was followed by Mitchell striking Raymond in the face, neck and chest, the filings says. When Raymond tried to close his legs, Mitchell punched his groin and repeatedly struck him in the area with a baton, the court papers say.

After the alleged attack, Raymond received no medical attention, even though he reported blood in his urine, the newspaper reported.

"It was not until January 2017, after his ability to urinate ceased and he fainted from toxicity that he was finally taken to the Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse," the filing says, according to the report.

His medical providers concluded that his injuries were the result of blunt-force trauma to his genitals.

in 2007, Mitchell and other guards were also accused of sexually harassing a female corrections officer. Penny Collins received a $787,837 judgment against DOCCS plus $150,000 in backpay in 2012, five years after filing a lawsuit, according to the report.

Collins told the Daily News that Mitchell was the "one of the sickest people" she's ever met.

"I've never been sorry that I filed this lawsuit," Colins told the newspaper. "I am only sorry that the state kept him employed. I knew that other people were going to be hurt. And I'm sorry for those inmates. I'm sorry for the officers. I am sorry for everyone who has to be around that man."Josh Rogin is a columnist for the Global Opinions section of The Washington Post. He writes about foreign policy and national security.

By Josh Rogin | The Washington Post



Despite the mutual chilliness between U.S. and North Korean officials in South Korea last week, behind the scenes real progress was made toward a new diplomatic opening that could result in direct talks without preconditions between Washington and Pyongyang. This window of opportunity was born out of a new understanding reached between the White House and the president of South Korea.



Vice President Mike Pence, in an interview aboard Air Force Two on the way home from the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, told me that in his two substantive conversations with South Korean President Moon Jae-in during his trip, the United States and South Korea agreed on terms for further engagement with North Korea -- first by the South Koreans and potentially with the United States soon thereafter.

The frame for the still-nascent diplomatic path forward is this: The United States and its allies will not stop imposing steep and escalating costs on the Kim Jong Un regime until it takes clear steps toward denuclearization. But the Trump administration is now willing to sit down and talk with the regime while that pressure campaign is ongoing.

Pence called it "maximum pressure and engagement at the same time." That's an important change from the previous U.S. position, which was to build maximum pressure until Pyongyang made real concessions and only then to engage directly with the regime.

"The point is, no pressure comes off until they are actually doing something that the alliance believes represents a meaningful step toward denuclearization," Pence said. "So the maximum pressure campaign is going to continue and intensify. But if you want to talk, we'll talk."

Pence and Moon worked this out during their bilateral meeting Thursday at the Blue House and their joint viewing of speedskating heats in Pyeongchang on Saturday evening. Pence conferred with President Donald Trump every day he was in Asia. Before these meetings, the Trump and Moon administrations were not aligned on whether Seoul's new engagement with Pyongyang should continue after the Olympics end.

That dissonance showed just before their first meeting, when Moon said he wanted Olympic engagement to lead to real negotiations while Pence talked only about the pressure track. But inside the meeting, there was a breakthrough. Pence told Moon the international community must not repeat the mistakes of the past by giving North Korea concessions in exchange for talking. Pence asked Moon for his idea of how this engagement could be different.

Moon assured Pence he would tell the North Koreans clearly that they would not get economic or diplomatic benefits for just talking -- only for taking concrete steps toward denuclearization. Based on that assurance, Pence felt confident he could endorse post-Olympic engagement with Pyongyang.

"I think it is different from the last 20 years," Pence said. I asked him what exact steps Pyongyang would have to take to get real sanctions relief. "I don't know," he said. "That's why you have to have talks."

The initial move the United States wants is for North Korea to put denuclearization on the table and take steps toward it, though that is not a condition for preliminary talks. That may be a bridge too far for the Kim regime, which is adamant that the international community accept its nuclear status. Pyongyang is also sure to want concessions from Washington, such as a delay in U.S.-South Korean military exercises, a non-starter for the alliance.

There are other spoilers that could torpedo the new opening. In Tokyo, Pence announced new sanctions on North Korea that he promised would be the toughest ever, due to be unveiled soon. In response, the Kim regime may resume testing its nuclear and missile programs, as it has done after past Olympic detentes. That would halt the diplomatic progress in its tracks.

Moon is working hard to prevent that from happening. He is entertaining a North Korean offer to visit Pyongyang. He is also urging the North Koreans to sit down with the United States at the earliest opportunity.

"Moon told me at the skating rink that he told [the North Koreans], 'You've got to talk to the Americans,' " Pence said.

The idea of "talks about talks" is not new. In fact, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has raised the idea multiple times. Trump himself has said he sees nothing wrong with talking with the North Koreans per se. Moving from that to substantive negotiations would still be extremely difficult. But to make any real progress, talking is the first necessary step.

The White House's endorsement of the concept of initial talks without preconditions is hugely significant. It provides a real fix to the break between Washington and Seoul. It also increases the chances the United States and North Korea will soon begin a process that represents the best hope of preventing a devastating international conflict.



NY corruption trial a how-to guide to flouting ethics, disclosure laws (Editorial)The Ku Klux Klan has made its presence known in another Upstate New York community, this time distributing Valentine's Day-themed recruitment flyers in Saratoga Springs.

"It was horrible what was on there you know, slurs and racial slurs," Saratoga Springs resident Enda Cormican, who found one of the flyers on his car, told WNYT-TV.

The flyers advertise for the Loyal White Knights of the KKK, one of the Klan's chapters in Upstate New York, and display phrases like "stop race mixing" and "love your own race." They were found on cars in the area of Woodlawn Avenue on Sunday morning.

"I didn't expect that something had happened like that in this area," Skidmore College student Enrico Patarini told the station. "I don't feel that that's a general consensus of the people who live here."

Cormican shares Patarini's views, and called it a "one-off crazy situation" with "no history of that happening here." But that isn't quite true.

Similar flyers were found in Saratoga Springs last May and again several years ago, and in the broader Upstate New York region, such distributions happen even more regularly.

Just a county away, the KKK used a similar Valentine's-themed distribution in 2017 in the village of Fort Plain.

In January, in Fulton County, the Klan capitalized on Martin Luther King Day to spread hateful messages about the revered Civil Rights leader.

The flyers are considered free speech, but police are still concerned and investigating.

"The biggest thing that I think is concerning is in a residential neighborhood and someone is putting out flyers on cars, its not for free restaurant food or coupons, it's the KKK," Lieutenant Bob Jillson of Saratoga Springs Police told WRGB-TV.

In past cases, police have been able to charge perpetrators with a violation for littering, and police have asked anyone with information to call the Saratoga Springs Police Department at 518-584-1800.

Watch the WNYT-TV video report below.California is investigating the health insurer Aetna after learning a former medical director at the company admitted he never looked at patients' records when making decisions on care.



CNN was the first to report the news.



"If the health insurer is making decisions to deny coverage without a physician actually ever reviewing medical records, that's of significant concern to me as insurance commissioner in California - and potentially a violation of the law," California Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones said, according to CNN.



Aetna is the nation's third-largest insurance provider and has over 23 million customers. The company said it looked forward to explaining its clinical review process to state officials, according to CNN.



California's investigation is focused on a deposition from Dr. Jay Ken Iinuma. He served as medical director for Aetna in Southern California from March 2012 to February 2015.



During the deposition, Iinuma said he followed Aetna's training, in which nurses reviewed patient records and then made recommendations to him on whether to deny coverage. The deposition occurred as a part of a lawsuit against Aetna by a patient who was denied treatment for a rare immune disorder.



The decision almost killed him, the patient argues, according to CNN. The case is scheduled for trial later this week.

Iinuma said he would rely mainly on nurses' recommendations when making coverage decisions and would only occasionally reach out to them with questions, according to CNN.

Jones told CNN he expected that doctors would review requests for care. He said it was troubling the Iinuma never looked at patients' medical records himself during the entire time he was employed at Aetna.



"It's hard to imagine that in that entire course in time, there weren't any cases in which a decision about the denial of coverage ought to have been made by someone trained as a physician, as opposed to some other licensed professional," Jones said, according to CNN.



California's investigation could result in financial penalties against Aetna.



The company said its medical directors are trained to review all available medical information, including patient records, to make decisions on coverage. Directors are given records and receive a case synopsis and review performed by a nurse, Aetna said, according to CNN.



"Medical directors - and all of our clinicians - take their duties and responsibilities as medical professionals incredibly seriously," Aetna said, according to CNN. "Similar to most other clinical environments, our medical directors work collaboratively with our nurses who are involved in these cases and factor in their input as part of the decision-making process."

Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Google + | 315-454-2112Tama County Ag Outlook, Sept. 3

August rain grows the grain. Throughout the last half of August, northeast and central Iowa has been blessed with timely rains just as the ...Thank you for reading!

Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue.Billions of kilometers away from home, the New Horizons space probe has made history as it captured photos at the farthest distance from Earth.

Using its built-in Long Range Reconnaissance Imager, it snapped an image of an open cluster named the "Wishing Well" last Dec. 5 from a distance of 6.12 billion kilometers. At that time, it set the record for being the first photos to be taken at the greatest distance from the planet.

However, the spacecraft surpassed its own record in only two hours. After traveling another billion kilometers into the outer solar system, it took photos of Kuiper Belt Object 2012 HZ84 and 2012 HE85.

Before New Horizons, Voyager 1 held the title when it captured 60 images of the solar system from 6.06 billion kilometers away on Feb. 14, 1990. This collection included the famous photo of the Earth known as the "Pale Blue Dot."

The space probe's cameras were switched off shortly after the images were captured. This made Voyager 1's record unmatched for nearly three decades.

NASA reports that New Horizons is presently in electronic hibernation. Its controllers stationed at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Maryland will once again man the space probe on June 4 to prepare the spacecraft for its new destination.

NASA Space Probe's Next Flyby Target

After reshaping history, New Horizons will head toward KBO 2014 MU69 to gather more data about its nature. This investigation is expected to answer the longstanding question if the target is actually comprised of two objects.

MU69, which is found more than 6.5 billion kilometers away, shot past in front of a star on July 17, 2017. NASA telescopes in Argentina were able to capture the object's fleeting shadow, giving them preliminary information about its size and shape as well as its surrounding environment.

KBO MU69: Single Body Or Binary Pair?

As the space agency's team observed the event called occultation, they noted that the KBO could be different than previously thought. It appeared to be more of a "prolate spheroid" made up of a binary pair. It is also possible for it to be one single object with a large missing chunk.

The team also determined that MU69 is around 30 kilometers in length as a single body. If it is indeed comprised by a binary pair, each component would have a diameter between 15 and 20 kilometers.

NASA estimates the probe to pass the object on Jan. 1, 2019. It will travel more than 1.6 billion miles beyond Pluto and set another record for the farthest fly by in space exploration history.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.Trade theft. A billion-dollar lawsuit. A reportedly pugnacious CEO. Stolen documents. What could be a juicier Silicon Valley controversy than Google and Waymo's legal spar over self-driving technology? Alas, it has now come to an end.

The basics: Anthony Levandowski, who was previously part of Waymo, which Google owns, left the company to kickstart Otto, an autonomous trucking venture that Uber later acquired in 2016. Google later alleges that Levandowski stole thousands of documents about Waymo's self-driving technology and that Uber is taking advantage of it for its own self-driving development. A nasty, chaotic legal battle ensued.

Waymo, Uber Settle For $245 Million

Waymo asked for $1 billion in settlement talks last year, but Uber's board members rejected that. Now, Waymo has entered a settlement with Uber. Under the agreement, Waymo is shutting down the case and will receive 0.34 percent of Uber stock, which tallies to around $245 million.

How? Well, specific details are thin, but as The New York Times reports, citing sources who didn't want to be named, CEO Dara Khosrowshahi worked to coax Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, letting them know Uber had turned over a new leaf.

The trial began earlier this week, and Waymo initially offered to settle things with the ridesharing company for $500 million. As with the $1 billion settlement last year, Uber didn't budge, with former CEO Travis Kalanick vehemently objecting to such a deal.

Then Uber's top new lawyer Tony West was given a directive to smooth things out with Waymo once again and try to lower the settlement. He worked with Waymo's general counsel and crafted a counter offer the board would be able to swallow. The offer was reduced to $245 million, plus an assurance that Waymo's technology won't be used by Uber in any way.

As Business Insider reports, citing a source, Waymo cared less about the price of the settlement than the fact that there was assurance Uber wouldn't incorporate Waymo technology into its own self-driving projects.

A Massive Win For Uber

According to a source, Khosrowshahi and Uber's board members view the settlement as a win. For starters, it completely erases the lawsuit as Uber prepares for an IPO next year. Plus, it makes Waymo an ally rather than an enemy.

"To our friends at Alphabet: we are partners, you are an important investor in Uber, and we share a deep belief in the power of technology to change people's lives for the better," wrote Khosrowshahi in a letter announcing the settlement.

He said he still doesn't believe Uber ever got to see the stolen files in question, let alone it ever incorporated that technology into its self-driving font.

"While I cannot erase the past, I can commit, on behalf of every Uber employee, that we will learn from it, and it will inform our actions going forward."

With that, Waymo and Uber's nasty fight has come to a close.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.ITVs Head of Drama Polly Hill has confirmed the commission of six-part drama The Singapore Grip from Mammoth Screen.

Adapted from Booker Prize winner J.G. Farrells novel by Oscar winning screenwriter and playwright Christopher Hampton (Atonement, Dangerous Liaisons), The Singapore Grip is set during World War Two and centres on a British family living in Singapore at the time of the Japanese invasion.



Polly Hill said: The Singapore Grip is a portrait of a society in decline as they cling to a world that is slowly crumbling. Im delighted to be working with Christopher Hampton and for ITV to be the home for his brilliant adaptation of J.G Farrells epic novel.



The series will be executive produced by Mammoth Screens Damien Timmer, responsible for recent dramas including Poldark and The Witness For The Prosecution for BBC One, NW and Parades End for BBC Two and Victoria, Endeavour and the forthcoming Vanity Fair for ITV.



Christopher Hampton said:As a great admirer and, eventually, a friend of J.G.Farrell, I was delighted to be invited to adapt The Singapore Grip, a panoramic account of the disastrous loss of Singapore to the Japanese invaders in 1942. Close analysis of this great novel has only deepened my enthusiasm for the skill with which Farrell has combined the private story of the machinations, commercial and amorous, of the Blackett family and their struggle  described with Farrells trademark subversive wit  to preserve and expand their prosperous rubber business with the unfolding of the cataclysmic events to which they remain totally oblivious until its too late. Matthew Webb, our bespectacled protagonist, an idealistic innocent abroad, lands in the middle of all this, to find himself fiercely pursued by two beautiful women  an English heiress and a Chinese adventurer  and his story, with its tumultuous backdrop, is told in a style with echoes of Tolstoy and Evelyn Waugh, but still, unmistakably, the unique voice of Jim Farrell.



Damien Timmer said: For me, J.G. Farrell and Christopher Hampton is the absolute dream team  two of the finest writers this country has ever produced. Forty years after it was first written, bringing The Singapore Grip to the screen is a passion project for all of us. Its an exceptionally well-crafted novel which has been adapted with unique flair and mischief by Christopher. Its a privilege to be making this for ITV, and we hope this hugely ambitious and exotic saga will be a memorable treat for the audience.



The series will shoot in the Far East this autumn and key production personnel and casting will be announced in the coming months. Mammoth Screens Creative Director Rebecca Keane developed the project with Timmer and Hampton, and Karen Thrussell from Mammoth (Poldark, And Then There Were None, Witness For The Prosecution) will also executive produce.



ITVS GE will be responsible for the international distribution of The Singapore Grip.





Share this storyTue., Sept. 14, 3-7 p.m.

Jacksonville Public Library 201 W. College Ave., Jacksonville Jacksonville

Health & Fitness

The library and the State of Illinois are partnering to bring you a free COVID-19 vaccine clinic! -Eligibility: The Pfizer BioNTech vaccine is authorized and recommended for persons 12 years of age and older. -Signing up for first or second dose--schedule your appointment by copying and pasting this link: https://idph-mychart.pchosted.com/IDPH/signupandschedule/embeddedschedule?vt=24629&dept=9001410010894 -If you are unable to sign up for the clinic yourself for any reason, please contact the library at 217-243-5435 and a staff member can sign you up. Can't make this event? Find a clinic near you by visiting coronavirus.illinois.gov. Hotline: 1-833-621-1284. Questions about COVID-19? Call 1-800-889-3931 or e-mail 217-243-5435As most of you already know, people often do not buy a premade PC, they create their own configuration. Pre-made still sells though, some people just dont want to go through all that trouble and simply ask for an opinion on what is in store,A task force studying the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students declined to line up behind any sweeping changes because of a glaring lack of agreement on the panel, lawmakers and others said.

"I was disappointed that our committee couldn't come to a consensus on some concrete proposals for the Legislature to consider," said state Rep. Franklin Foil, R-Baton Rouge, a member of the study group.

"The reality is the committee was split on almost all of the proposals that we submitted for consideration," Foil said.

Sen. Bodi White, R-Central, another panel member, made the same point. "I don't think there was any consensus on any one or two things that would have come out of there," White said.

The committee, which included five House and five Senate members, has met since September.

Lawmakers met 12 times, heard hours of testimony on how TOPS works and lengthy comments from advocates on whether and how it should be changed.

LSU president: TOPS funding decision delays hold families hostage, cost colleges top students LSU is losing top students to other states because of delays in funding decisions on the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students, school presi

But the TOPS task force mostly finished its work Wednesday without any individual votes on proposals offered by the members.

Instead, the committee voted to send 11 proposals to the Legislature for consideration during the 2018 regular session, which begins March 12.

Sen. Dan "Blade" Morrish, R-Jennings, chairman of the task force, said lawmakers did their work by distilling possible changes from hundreds to five or so that would spark controversy.

Others criticized the lack of any public push to vote on, and get behind, substantive changes.

"It is a political push," said Joshua Stockley, an associate professor of political science at the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Stockley said the action amounts to task force members telling the rest of the Legislature, "You guys gave us this responsibility, and we are saying without saying we don't know what to do."

About 52,000 students are TOPS recipients, and the state is spending about $290 million on the program this year.

The assistance has sparked a wide range of arguments in recent months, including how to keep it funded, whether eligibility requirements should be toughened and whether TOPS should be more needs-based rather than merit-oriented.

Widow of TOPS founder says all qualifiers deserve the aid: 'You can't pick and choose' The widow of the founder of TOPS said Thursday her late husband would avoid any rush to make the tuition aid more needs based.

Morrish offered the most sweeping proposal.

He wanted to convert the most common form of TOPS  called TOPS Opportunity  to a $4,000 yearly stipend, which would be a drop of up to $3,400 per year for some students, and other changes.

Morrish said it would eventually save about $20 million per year.

Rep. Gary Carter, D-New Orleans, a member of the task force, proposed an equally controversial plan.

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Carter wants to ensure full funding for top students and those from the poorest families, with major cuts to others when state aid is reduced.

Sen. Wesley Bishop, D-New Orleans, wants to award TOPS Opportunity for students who failed to qualify as high school students if they earn 60 credit hours in two college academic years and a 3.0 GPA.

Other proposals would revamp TOPS Tech, cut stipends that accompany some TOPS awards and trim qualifying rules on the ACT  which measures college readiness  if GPA requirements for TOPS are raised.

Students now have to earn at least a 2.5 on their core curriculum in high school, and a 20 on the ACT, to receive TOPS Opportunity.

Carter said action by the task force was preferable to party-line votes on individual bills.

"It was a great, bipartisan conversation," he said. "I think the fact we agreed that anything we do must be on a bipartisan basis is great."

The task force consisted of six Republicans and four Democrats.

White said the panel was always sharply divided on how to revamp TOPS.

Bishop, Carter and Rep. Ted James, D-Baton Rouge, stressed the need to widen the reach for the program.

White and Sen. Mike Walsworth, R-West Monroe, pushed for allowing TOPS Tech recipients to eventually qualify for TOPS Opportunity if they showed academic promise after two years.

Foil said one concern was whether it made sense to advance proposals on a 6-4 vote, or whether a super majority should be required. He said the task force was split into two camps over TOPS.

"Some people believe it should be needs based and some people think it should be merit based," Foil said.

Barry Erwin, president of the Council for a Better Louisiana, said lawmakers are skittish since cutting the program in 2016 sparked criticism of the Legislature.

TOPS task force members say long-term funding for program needs to be No. 1 goal Ensuring the long-term financial stability of TOPS should be the key aim of a Louisiana House and Senate panel about to tackle the issue, newl

"I think a lot of legislators are just very wary of messing with TOPS," Erwin said.

At least two bills are likely to emerge from the study for the 2018 regular legislative session, which begins March 12.

Carter plans to re-introduce his measure to ensure funding for the best TOPS recipients and those most in need of financial help.

Foil said he will again push a plan to fund tops in part with riverboat gambling revenue.

Both died in the Legislature last year.

Stockley said changing TOPS is a multilayered challenge that sparks differences along budget, party and racial lines.

"That makes it difficult to come to any unanimous agreement as to how to move forward," he said.Gov. John Bel Edwards said Monday rural roads and bridges could be the big winners under President Donald Trump's $1.5 trillion infrastructure plan.

Edwards was one of eight governors, and a few dozen or so state legislators and mayors, who met with the president for 50 minutes Monday morning.

Shawn Wilson, secretary for the state Department of Transportation and Development, also attended.

Trump's plan envisions $40 billion or $50 billion going to states in the form of block grants to address rural needs over a 10-year period.

In an interview after the meeting, Edwards said that portion of the plan is most important to Louisiana.

"We should be able to to use that block grant to do some things that we have really struggled to do for a long time," he said.

"We have way more than our fair share of bridges in Louisiana that are posted," Edwards said.

In a separate interview, Wilson also said addressing rural needs appears to be the best takeaway for the state.

"We like the rural block grant part," he said. "That seems to be the no-brainer."

Some state lawmakers have complained that, even amid tight state finances, rural areas have been overlooked.

They noted that the governor's $600 million proposal, using federal bonds, to finance three projects all focused on urban areas: Baton Rouge, New Orleans and Shreveport.

Trump said rural infrastructure has been long neglected, "including broadband internet access, which they don't have.

"And they want it, and the farmers want it," Trump said, according to a White House transcript of the meeting.

"It will create thousands and thousands of jobs, and increase training for our great American workers, and it returns power to the state and local governments who know best what their people need."

Under the president's plan, the federal government would put up more than $100 billion in hopes of generating dollars from local governments and private investors.

The state has a nearly $14 billion backlog of road and bridge needs.

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A bid to boost the state gasoline tax last year by about $500 million per year, backed by the Edwards administration, died in the Legislature without a vote on the House or Senate floor.

Wilson said that means states that spend more will be in line for the most federal match.

"That is the concern for Louisiana," he said.

"I would have a very difficult time identifying new, non-federal revenue," Wilson said. "Because we are going to have to guarantee dollars that we yet to have."

Our Views: Is Louisiana prepared for Trump roads plan? Regrettably, at $200 billion over the next decade, theres not that much federal oomph behind President Donald Trumps much-discussed $1.5 t

Edwards said the state lacks the population density needed to generate the kind of profit required to interest private investors in major projects.

The state plans to replace the Belle Chasse tunnel as part of a $122 million project that would include private dollars, which would be the first such venture in Louisiana.

Adam Knapp, president and CEO of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber, said in a statement he is excited to see transportation get a higher priority in Washington.

"The huge problem for the capital region, regardless of the funding source or size, is whether any of the funds will address the Baton Rouge area's tremendous need for a new Mississippi River bridge," Knapp said.

"The state and local governments don't currently have the match for this kind of mega-project under the president's proposal," he said. "We need to have the courage and leadership to take advantage of this opportunity if it comes."

One key issue already clouding prospects for Trump's plan is how the federal government will come up with $200 billion.

The administration has said the money could be generated by moving around existing dollars.

"That is not being well received by at least some members of Congress," said Edwards, a Democrat. "We will see."

The governor praised another part of the president's outline -- trimming the federal permitting process for major projects to two years.

"If they can just get the average time to process and issue permits down to two years rather than eight to 10 years that will make a big difference," he said.

The governors of Mississippi, Tennessee, Maine, New Mexico, Virginia, Nebraska and Wisconsin also attended the White House gathering.When Brent Darien Washington Sr. was a little boy growing up on Montegut Street, he didnt think much about Zulu, one way or another.

Zulu was just another parade to me back then, he said.

How times have changed.

Washington, an accountant who serves as chief financial officer at Edgar P. Harney Spirit of Excellence Academy, eventually tuned in to the organization and became a devoted member in 1990.

Since then he has wholeheartedly supported its programming and charitable activities, serving as a member of the finance, technology, lounge and Carnival activities committees. Currently, he's chairman of the Finance Committee.

But he is also something much more this year.

I am extremely honored to have been elected by the Zulu membership to serve as King Zulu for the 2018 Carnival season, he said. It is such an honor to represent the Zulu Nation to the world.

If it took growing up to pique Washingtons interest in the Zulu organization, the same cant be said about his queen and wife of 30 years, Troye Madison Washington, who was raised in Central City near Willow Street and Jackson Avenue.

I practically grew up with Zulu, said the queen, who is assistant head of school at Lafayette Academy. I had plenty of relatives in it, and it was active in my neighborhood. Years ago, before there was an established route for the parade, it would go from bar to bar and business to business, toasting family and sponsors. You couldnt help but know all about it, because you got to experience it firsthand.

Theres a reason that Her Majesty had that firsthand experience with Zulu. During the days of segregation, the group was not allowed to parade on Canal Street or to toast at Gallier Hall. So Gertrude Geddes, then a co-owner of Geddes & Moss Funeral Home, put up viewing stands for the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club in front of her business in the 2100 block of Jackson, just a few blocks from where the 2018 Zulu queen grew up.

The stands provided not only an excellent parade viewing spot but also a place to toast the queen and her maids. The tradition continued for decades, solidifying the area as central to the Zulu tradition.

On Tuesday, 1,200 riders will fill Zulu floats in a parade that begins near Jackson and Claiborne avenues, then continues to St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street, then out Orleans Avenue to North Broad Street and the Zulu headquarters.

We have 800 members, but we have 400 riders who arent members but love to ride, said Brent Washington. Its a good time."

Troye Washington said that one float will be ridden by Junior Zulus, young men who have been mentored by the organization.

Some of these young men dont have fathers at home, and they can benefit from sustained contact with businessmen, she explained. They learn how to dress and carry themselves, and having a mentor makes it easier to have someone who can guide them when they require it.

Other community-oriented works of the club include a toy giveaway and a bike giveaway.

I challenged the members to donate money to buy the bikes, Brent Washington said, and ended up raising 300 bikes myself.

There will also be floats carrying the grand marshal, movie director Spike Lee, plus the Zulu characters.

Theres Mr. Big Stuff, the Big Shot, the Witch Doctor and a few more, said King Zulu. You could write a book about the traditions behind the characters, but the one I know best is Big Shot because thats what I was last year. The Big Shot tries to outdo the king  to look better, wear better suits and so on. Hes the one who grants folks permission to visit with the king, and he stays close by. John Gourrier Jr. fills the Big Shots shoes this year.

The queen has a corps of women and men who attend her, but that relationship isnt competitive  its supportive.

They are there to fulfill my every need and every wish, said Troye Washington. They get me something to drink if I feel thirsty or something to eat if I feel hungry. If I am in a meeting, they will stand outside to make sure I am not disturbed. They help me into the limousine when I have to go somewhere. Im really going to miss it.

Brent Washington delivered a prediction about whether the Big Shot will outshine him on Mardi Gras.

He can sure try," he said with a smile, "but he will fail.A New York Times travel writer who caused a stir last month when she tweeted that be safe seems to be a common warning in New Orleans and that people dont walk outside after dark has filed her dispatch from the Crescent City.

Jada Yuan, whos tasked with traveling to every place on the Times' 52 Places to Go in 2018 list, recently visited New Orleans, ranked first on the list. During her visit, she tweeted that be safe seems to be the No. 1 way to say goodbye in #Nola. People really take care of each other here. Also, have learned no one walks on the street after dark.

After the tweet was met with widespread criticism, Yuan reached out to New Orleans residents, saying that she was willing to "grab a whiskey" and learn what she "can do better" in reflecting the Crescent City's charm.

It's not clear if she grabbed that whiskey with anyone, but in her piece on New Orleans, Yuan addressed the incident, calling it a badly worded tweet, though not entirely off base  a reference to the citys notorious violent crime rate.

But the city also has, Ive learned, a very forgiving spirit, Yuan wrote in her story, which was posted online Monday. The same people who sent me angry messages had turned warm within minutes. One woman I met at the Pinettes show, Renee Lapeyrolerie, wrote me, 'Badly worded, not a crime, just a sin lol enjoy the rest of your stay, and then advised me to put my phone in a Ziploc bag in case it rained.

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Among Yuans other observations:

-- Many New Orleans residents arent that excited about the citys tricentennial. From the sense I got on the groundthe tricentennial ranks pretty far below Mardi Gras as a thing the city is excited about.

-- Common complaints among residents include the roads and water quality (Yuan visited New Orleans in January, shortly after days of a hard freeze that burst hundreds of pipes and prompted boil water advisories across the city).

-- New Orleans has a thriving arts scene, particularly at the school level. After visiting the ReNEW Cultural Arts Academy and observing a marching band practice, Yuan wrote: They were as impressive as any professional musicians youll find on Frenchman Street."

Read Yuans full piece on New Orleans here.Terms & Conditions

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TBG Reserves the right to temporarily or permanently end an auction during the stated auction period or extend an auction without notification. If for any reason TBG is unable to deliver any Goods purchased by Buyer, TBG'S sole liability shall be to return all sums paid by Buyer to TBG in respect of such Goods.13. Minimum or Reserve Prices. TBG, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to establish a reserve or minimum price on any Goods without having to announce post or publish notice to attendees and buyers at any auction. TBG reserves the right to confirm or reject the final bid. Further, The Branford Group, and/or its affiliates or subsidiaries, may bid at the auction either for its own account or on behalf of a third party.14. Absentee Bids. By completing an "Absentee (Proxy) Bidder Form," Bidders may appoint TBG to be an agent and proxy for the sole purpose of purchasing the items listed when the Bidder CANNOT bid on the day of the sale. ALL BIDS ARE FINAL AND BINDING and DO NOT include any applicable buyer's premiums and sales taxes. TBG will bid up to the specified maximum bid amount to win the item, using only the amount needed to win the item. TBG has complete discretion whether and when to accept Proxy bids. The auctioneer's announcements at the time the lot is sold take precedence on any and all published materials. Proxy bidders will be notified only if they have been declared the high bid. Notification will take place in the form of an electronic invoice which will be sent to the email address provided during registration.15. TBG, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to refuse the bid of any person without providing any notice or reason therefore. TBG reserves the right to deny the usage and access by any person or third party of any and all TBG Services and Websites without notification.16. TBG, in its sole discretion, shall control all bidding increments and advances at any auction. The Branford Group reserves the right to reject any bid that is only a minimal increase over the preceding bid, that is not commensurate with the value of the item being offered or that The Branford Group believes was made illegally or in bad faith. In the event of a dispute among bidders, The Branford Group may, in its sole discretion, either accept what it deems to be the final bid or solicit further bids on the item in dispute. No returns or refunds will be permitted, unless authorized by the seller in writing.17. TBG reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to sell items advertised as a public auction sale, on a piece by piece basis or as a complete lot. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, TBG may accept a complete lot bid and then conduct an item by item auction which auction shall be effective only if the total proceeds there from exceed the amount of the complete bid.18. All information provided by TBG to Buyers, including without limitation, any advertising, lot sales catalogs or otherwise, is subject to deletions, errors, additions, and changes without notice. Although information is gathered from sources thought to be reliable, TBG shall have no responsibility whatsoever for any information provided to any attendee or buyers. All buyers shall rely solely on their own investigation and inspection of any Goods.19. TBG reserves the right to amend any and all of the Terms and Agreements stated herein at any time without notification at TBGs sole discretion. It is the Buyers responsibility to read and review the Terms and Conditions for each sale. TBG provides the Terms and Conditions through its Websites and in printed form at on-site auctions.20. When TBG is selling or auctioning any Goods on behalf of a third party owner, TBG shall act as an agent only and shall have no liability whatsoever for the acts of any owner/principal.21. Export Law Compliance. Buyers agree to comply with all US export control and related laws, and acknowledge that TBG is not the exporter of any purchased item. Certain items offered for sale at the auction may constitute "Restricted Technology." Under federal law, such items may not be shipped outside the United States. TBG makes no representation or warranty concerning, and has conducted no investigation to ascertain which items, if any, constitute Restricted Technology. Buyer also agrees not to export any item to countries which are subject to comprehensive embargoes or support terrorism. These countries include, but are not limited to: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan and Syria. The list will change from time to time,22. Auction Sites. Buyers acknowledge that an auction site is a potentially dangerous place, Flammable, noxious, corrosive and pressurized substances may be present. Heavy equipment may be operated and electrical circuits may be live. Every person enters the auction site at his or her own risk with notice of the condition of the premises and the activities that will be or have been conducted on the premises. No person shall have any claim against TBG, the seller or their respective agents for any injuries sustained or for damages to or loss of property that may occur at the auction site.23. TBG Rights and Remedies. If the Buyer fails to comply with any of the Terms, TBG shall have all rights and remedies available to it at law and in equity. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, TBG may retain all deposits and partial payments received from Buyer and may resell any Goods that Buyer fails to purchase. Buyer shall be responsible for all costs, losses, and damages suffered by TBG (i) as a result of Buyer's breach of any of the Terms, including without limitation, lost profits and consequential damages, and (ii) incurred in connection with the enforcement of TBGS' rights, including, without limitation, legal fees and costs and expenses related to the resale of Goods, including storage and rigging fees.24. Website Usage. The following is specific to the access and usage of TBG Websites including and not limited to any and all features and applications:25. No Collusion. Buyers agree they will not participate in any bidding practices with the intent of manipulating the bidding. Any and all forms of collusion between Buyers is forbidden. Buyers agree they will not place bids under false names or Buyer Information.26. Buyers agree they will defend, indemnify and hold harmless TBG, including its affiliates, directors, officers, employees, agents, shareholders, co-branders, or partners, from and against any and all claim, loss, damage, liabilities, judgments, fees and expenses incurred by TBG, including its affiliates, directors, officers, employees, agents, shareholders, co-branders, or partners, through the use of TBG Services and Websites.27. Disclaimers. Buyers acknowledge and agree that the internet is an unreliable, unsecured, and error-prone network. TBG cannot and does not guarantee continuous, uninterrupted or secure access to Online bidding service provider or the thebranfordgroup.com web site or that Bidder information, including auction registration and bids, will be transmitted or received in a timely fashion. You agree to hold TBG harmless for any interruptions in Online Bidding services or our website, or your inability to reach or effectively use online bidding service provider or thebranfordgroup.com website. IN NO EVENT SHALL TBG BE LIABLE OR CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY LOST PROFITS (HOWEVER ARISING, INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE) ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT OR THE USE OF ONLINE BIDDING. TheBranfordGroup.com website, including all content, functions, materials, services and information made available on or accessed through online bidding providers or our website, are provided on an As Is Where Is Basis without representations or warranties of any kind whatsoever, expressed or implied, including without limitation, non-infringement or fitness for a particular purpose. TBG Does Not Warrant that the service or functions, features or content contained, made available on or accessed through online bidding providers or thebranforgroup.com website, including without limitation any third-party software, products or other materials used in connection with online bidding services or thebranfordgroup.com website, will be timely, secure, uninterrupted or error free, or that defects will be corrected. TBG makes no warranty that online bidding providers or thebranfordgroup.com website will meet your requirements. If you are dissatisfied with the online bidding providers or thebranfordgroup.com website, your sole remedy is to discontinue using the online bidding provider or thebranfordgroup.com website. No advice or information, whether oral or written, obtained by you from TBG or through the online bidding provider or thebranfordgroup.com website shall create any warranty not expressly made in the agreement.The ABC (Australian Broadcasting Network, not the US American Broadcast Company) series Summer Heights High is one of the most successful comedies in the countrys history. Its funny in an uncomfortable way, or perhaps uncomfortable in a funny way; regardless, Sally Kingsford is happy about her inclusion in the cast as the overly nice and eager Ashley. The tone of the show presents the life of high schoolers with the ridiculousness, and sometimes self-centred opportunism which they can possess. The storyline resonated with Australian and worldwide viewers. Summer Heights High was nominated for four Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards, Australias most prestigious screen awards (the Australian equivalent to the Academy Awards - winning for Best Television Series and Best Performance in a Television Series), won two Logie awards (for Most Outstanding Comedy Program and Most Popular Actor), and broke Australian DVD records as the biggest selling Australian TV series DVD in the countrys history. Beyond domestic popularity, it became the first Australian show to be sold to a major US network, and has become available in numerous countries like the US (HBO), Canada (Comedy Network), the UK (BBC 3), and others. It is currently available on Netflix. Needless to say, all of this international attention for Summer Heights High added to Kingsfords global fan base (coupled with her recognition worldwide from Neighbours). Although she admits that she has never forced the comedic side of herself, Sally concedes that others find her naturally funny. Whether cultivated or naturally present, her portrayal of Ashely in this acclaimed and beloved program is undeniable.













Summer Heights High is a mockumentary that is the creation of actor Chris Lilley. The three pivotal characters of the storyline are Jonah, Jamie, and Mr. G. Ashley (Kingsford) introduces Jamie to Summer Heights High and helps her make friends with the cool girls. Ashley is an incredibly nice girl who can be both admirable and off-putting in her all-encompassing excellence. Shes definitely an overachiever. Top of the class in academics, proficient on numerous musical instruments, involved in school government, and nice to a fault, Ashley is chosen by the teachers to be Jamies guide into the school community. Jamies perception of Ashley is not so benevolent, referring to her as fugly and boring. The narcissistic/bitchy temperament of Jamie can vacillate between justification and mean spiritedness, enabled by Sallys portrayal of this endearing and yet grating character. Kingsford remarks, Ashley is super nerdy and nice. Shes one of those people who are good at EVERYTHING. Occasionally she can be a bit of a wet blanket. Jamie is pretty horrible to her and she never says or does anything about it. She is incredibly loyal to the school and this is part of the reason she puts up with Jamies ridiculousness. She is very selfless and is incredibly concerned with the wellbeing of everyone around her.













Show-creator and star Chris Lilley knew that he wanted Kingsford to audition for the program from the minute he saw and approached her at a popular Vegetarian restaurant in Melbourne. The audition lasted only ten minutes, confirming Lilleys presumptions. This speaks to the endearing quality that the actress is able to convey in the character. Fellow acclaimed actress Fiannah de Rue declares, Before having the opportunity to meet her in person, I had admired Sally Kingsfords work on screen in my favourite Australian television comedy series Summer Heights High as the lovable school nerd Ashley. She performed with such honesty and vulnerability. Mixed with Sallys gift for comedic flair, Ashley became a crowd favourite. She is a highly gifted actor and her dedication to this art form makes her a true asset to our industry.





Theres no question that the casting choices were made with a confidence in Kingsford and her co-stars abilities. While the show was scripted (in terms of a basic structure), Lilley and director Stuart McDonald created an environment on set that was highly supportive of improvisation. As a cast member of numerous scripted films, Kingsford quickly found that her memorization of lines and plot points was something she would need to reject being tied to. Spontaneity and playfulness were the touchstones during filming. Lilley wanted to see how far the characters could be taken in their ridiculousness and the audience reacted very positively to this. The variety of personalities exhibited in Summer Heights High offers someone for everyone to connect with whether they recognize an adversary or themselves in the story. By giving each actor the opportunity to personalize someone and something that was present in such a vulnerable part of their lives, both those making this program and those watching it were able to experience a humorous catharsis.













The outcome for an actress involved in a show this big means more work and more fame. Acting is what Kingsford does and the deluge of opportunities that follow an acclaimed program like Summer Heights High means she continues to do what she is passionate about every day. The recognition from the public reinforces to her that she is also adding something to their lives that is appreciated. She notes, Ive had people from all over the world tell me how much joy the show has brought to their lives and Im incredibly proud to be a part of a production that has had such a positive global impact. Ive never been recognized more in public for the work Ive done. Being approached took a little while to get used to but hearing first-hand accounts from people all over the world was very heartwarming. I feel incredibly lucky to have been part of such a successful Australian show. I think it was something very special we were able to create. The people that are presented are really often quite awful but whats wonderful is that theyre recognizable people weve all met. Mixing this uncomfortable humor with moments that are incredibly heartfelt is what the show does so well and is why I think it has had such success here and overseas.



Diageo reveals new design for Tanqueray Rangpur

Diageo has unveiled a new look for Tanqueray Rangpur, while announcing that it will extend distribution into new markets.

Tanqueray Rangpur is named after an exotic lime originating in India and was originally launched in 2006.

It is now available in Brazil, Australia, Colombia and Greece.

To celebrate this announcement, a new bottle design will also hit the shelves across all markets. Through citrus imagery as well as a delicate, Raj-inspired, border in classic Tanqueray green, it tells a visual story of its signature ingredient, Rangpur, a lime which originated from India. For the first time it also introduces the signature of the brands founder  Charles Tanqueray.

Tanqueray global marketing manager, Joanna Segesser says: Its an extremely exciting time for gin. Its a category which is growing at a phenomenal rate with Tanqueray at the forefront. This is the reason why we are refreshing the look and extending the reach of Tanqueray Rangpur into new countries.

Like our founder, who searched the globe for the perfect ingredients, we believe that Its what you put in that matters and Tanqueray Rangpur is no different. Distilled with rare Rangpur limes, the result is a distinctive zesty flavour.

Our new look bottle reflects this rich heritage and its exotic flavour, while paying homage to the ultimate gin pioneer  Charles Tanqueray.

Tanqueray Rangpur has an ABV of 41.3%

12 February 2018 - Sam Coyne The Drinks Report, news editorWilliam Grant & Sons' has revealed its latest brand activation for the blended Scotch whisky Monkey Shoulder  a 2,400 gallon cocktail shaker, functioning as a cement mixer named The Monkey Mixer.

It will visit select cities in the US, beginning with its debut at Arizona Cocktail Week (February 17-19).

Monkey Shoulders US ambassador, Seb Derbomez and brand associate, Tobias Schopf, will present the cocktail shaker to attendees.

Seb Derbomez, US Monkey Shoulder Ambassador says: Many consider whisky sacred and precious. Many take their cocktails very seriously. We respect that, but believe people should play with their whisky, and enjoy the experience. Monkey Shoulder is an award-winning whisky that is made for mixing, and we are dedicated to sharing the joy and wonder of what a whisky cocktail experience can be with people across the country. The Monkey Mixer is a great vehicle to share this message in a big and unmistakable way.

The Monkey Mixer:

The capacity for the Mixer is the equivalent of 123,000 bottles of Monkey Shoulder

The Mixer is over 27 feet long, 13 feet tall and 8 feet wide

The mixer is powered by a 5000 watt Cummins Onan diesel commercial generator

The sound system packs over 2000 watts of power and includes: 2 x 500 watt JL audio amplifiers 1 x 1000 watt JL audio amplifier 4 x 7.77 JL audio midrange speakers 2 x 13 JL audio subwoofers 1 x 18 Dayton audio subwoofer



Derbomez continues: For this first event, weve chosen to offer the Mixed Up Monkey cocktail, a mixture of Monkey Shoulder, mint syrup, soda, and lemon juice chosen for its universality and its playfully fun use of the whisky. With this cocktail you can see just how mixable Monkey Shoulder really is  a truly cheeky addition to any cocktail!

I cant wait to share Monkey Shoulder, The Monkey Mixer, and this experience with mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts as we travel to some of the countrys top spirits events this year. Of course, we take safety and responsibility very seriously, so driving time and cocktail time will always be separate  as they always should be. We encourage all to imbibe responsibly always, and never drink and drive.

Following its Arizona debut, The Monkey Mixer will travel to select cocktail festivals and other locations in the USA throughout 2018.The road to the easternmost town of Madura Island is about 170 kilometers from the Suramadu bridge, rolling through the views of villages and beaches. Sumenep, locally known as Songeneb, was established when Arya Wiraraja, a political advisor of the Singhasari kingdom, was exiled to Madura. The towns livelihood relied on salt and tobacco, making the small kingdom a vibrant hub of trade, recording its golden age during the Dutch colonial era.

Sumenep salt was an important trade commodity for the Dutch, with ports and railways built to transport it. The town of Sumenep has gone through a long history of change and experience under the Hindu kingdom, Islamic kingdom, Dutch colonialism, Japan aggression and the independent Republic of Indonesia. These changes took Sumenep to different phases including the golden age and difficult times.

Read also: Six destinations to check out in Sumenep

The historical traces of Sumenep crossing through the different ages are still visible today. Some landmarks can be seen dotted around the coastal area of Kalianget with colonial style heritage buildings. There is a palace and an old mosque built in oriental style, and the heritage houses of the Madurese are in a mix of Javanese-Dutch-Chinese architecture. That hybrid style is known as lodji.

As time passes, the glorious past of Sumenep as a salt-producing town still attracts people from outside the island. Antiques from the old days of Sumenep are now the target of collectors from Indonesia and foreign countries alike. Decades old furniture such as wardrobes, wooden trunks, sculpted room partitions, tables, chairs and beds are being sold in Sumenep, particularly in the Kalianget area.

A humble yet picturesque showcase of antiques in Sumenep, Madura. (JP/Stefanus Ajie)

Riyanto, an antique dealer with 10 years of experience in Kalianget, said the antiques from Sumenep are in high demand by collectors from Jakarta, Bali and Yogyakarta. The collectors then resell the antiques to foreign buyers. Riyanto sourced the antiques from villages around Sumenep, including Kalianget at the coast to the hillsides of Lenteng and Saronggi. The lodji, far inside the villages, usually keep the authentic wares of Sumenep. Following purchase, dealers will commission carpenters to restore the antiques to prime condition.

Read also: Find antique goods at pekanbarus oldest market pasar bawah

An antique dealer shows old doors of Madurese houses to a potential buyer. (JP/Stefanus Ajie)

Apart from antique furniture and home wares; old doors, windows and house pillars also attract collectors. Furniture from the old days in Sumenep are characterized with unique sculpting, a mix of Jepara (a regency in Central Java) style and oriental influence. The typical oriental images of dragons, phoenix and clouds are seen sculpted on Sumenep antique furniture, particularly the old style Lencak (bed). The detail of sculpting, wood quality and age of the antiques determines the price of the goods. Old beds, one of the most sought after items, cost around Rp 35 million (US$2,566), but the older ones in excellent condition could reach hundreds of million of rupiah.

As the time passes in Sumenep, bits and pieces of the citys heritage are transported out of the island. Old beds now become gazebo or terrace decoration at holiday resorts, cafes or new houses. So are the doors and windows sculpted with images of phoenix in vibrant colors, now attached to new houses somewhere outside Madura. Now narrated nationwide or abroad through antique furniture and house parts, the glorious story from the past of a salt-rich town. (mut/kes)A horse-drawn carriage will take Prince Harry and his American bride Meghan Markle down Windsor's main street after they marry in the town's castle in May, Kensington Palace said Sunday.

Following a noon ceremony in St George's Chapel the newlyweds will make a "short journey" in the carriage, leaving the castle at around 1 pm (1300 GMT), it said.

"Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are hugely grateful for the many good wishes they have received since announcing their engagement," the palace said in a statement.

"They are very much looking forward to the day and to being able to share their celebrations with the public.

"They hope this short journey will provide an opportunity for more people to come together around Windsor and to enjoy the atmosphere of this special day."

Read also: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are breaking royal tradition once again

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby will officiate on May 19 as the couple make their marriage vows, while the Dean of Windsor, David Conner, will conduct the wedding service, the palace also confirmed.

After the ceremony the pair and their guests will move to St George's Hall for a reception, which they will rejoin after the carriage procession.

Later that evening Prince Charles will host another reception for the couple and their "close friends and family", it added.

Harry and Markle announced their engagement in November and have since made a series of public appearances, drawing crowds of well-wishers.

A royal spokesman confirmed soon after the announcement that the couple had chosen to marry in Windsor, Queen Elizabeth II's weekend residence.

Read also: Lifetime to create movie about prince harry meghan markle love storyThe breeze passing through the leaves sounded like the pitter-patter of rain. The weather slowly became colder. A few seconds later, the atmosphere changed into something subtler and emptier, leaving the sort of silence that felt like eternity.

On the edge of the moonlight that was split by bamboo reeds, two people held hands and hesitantly walked toward the lush forest.

Is this the right path? the girl asked as she wiped her sweaty forehead.

The person beside her gave a slight nod, although his movement was unclear. Indeed, this is, he replied.

They went deeper into the forest while having to remove the twigs hindering their way. Sometimes, their steps were stopped by things moving around them. They thought there were night beasts lurking around, but actually it was only their fear. Right before reaching their destination, the forest appeared even denser. After trying so hard to clear their pathway, eventually they arrived before a wide overlay of dry land. Tens of swings hung from tree branches; each of them dangling off a large tree that was already dead. Oddly, those swings moved back and forth despite the fact there wasnt any wind or anyone pushing them.

The girl let go of the mans hand. She stepped forward and slowly said Dear Lord! They actually exist

***

The swing hangs on a guava tree that has long been dead. The wind keeps blowing against it, swaying the swing.

I decide to remove the swing again this year. Its been 10 years since we first hung it on the tree, and since then I dont know how many times Ive considered taking it off.

As we return home from our pilgrimage this morning, the desire that has always been there and never ceases urges me to walk into the garage and take the sickle.

Hope  my only child  only looks at me without a word. I ignore her, although I understand what her expression means. Anyhow, she never touches the swing. I never tell her that her life and the swing are somehow connected. She probably can feel it, though.

I keep falling whenever I try to climb the tree. My head hits a big root that surfaces from the ground. I lose consciousness for a while, but then I see images from the past that seem so clear and real. These memories take me to the time I always wish to forget.

About 10 years ago, May  my wife  and I made the decision. We were crying in silence as we decided it, and it was our last choice.

I wish this would be our last endeavor, my dear, May whispered to me.

I nodded.

That night, we had a similar dream. I didnt know why we happened to talk about the dream after the dawn prayer; we rarely, if at all, talked about our dreams.

Hes an old man with gray hair and a beard, said May.

The old man said we can have it if we really want it, I added.

May nodded and continued, He spoke of a place in the middle of the forest where all the trees have already died.

There are 98 swings on each tree. Supposedly, the number of the swings will never change no matter how many have been taken. My voice was almost weak and small.

***

I dont know how long its been since I fainted. When I regained consciousness, I see Aliyah, my little sister, sitting by my side.

What happened to you? her question strikes me as Im still trying to recollect my memory. Mrs. Salman saw you fall, so she shouted for help. Slowly I start remembering everything. Why did you even carry a sickle?

I was going to cut off the swing, my voice sounds hoarse, but my answer silences her for a moment or two.

Why didnt you tell me? Ive told you so many times to chop down the tree, as well as the swing. Theyre hideous.

I can only nod. I know she has never agreed since the first time May and I placed the swing there. Of course, I dont blame her. Our house is small with a yard of only 40 square meters. Its odd to have a swing under a big tree there.

However, May and I really had a justified reason for that.

It was our endeavor, Al, I reply to her, hoping she would stop shouting at me. Just consider this a motivation.

Since then, Aliyah never talks about the swing, although I know she still dislikes it.

***

The day after the swing was hung on the tree in our front yard, everything changed.

At first, I thought it was only my feeling. The swing always moved back and forth with or without wind. It just moved endlessly, slowly. Nevertheless, the guava tree started to die. The leaves withered and turned dry. It all happened within a week.

I felt something strange, so did May. However, a few days later May told me she was pregnant. I was really happy and I did not care anymore with all the strange feelings I had. Our neighbors spread rumors about the swing, but I could not care less because of my feelings of joy.

Children who would try to ride the swing always fall

As dusk falls, the atmosphere around the swing feels strange

Eventually, the child we had been waiting for was born. We named her Hope.

Suddenly, on the day before May and Hope could return home, May asked me, Can we now take the swing down? I could see the flash of fear in her eyes.

As I arrived in the afternoon, I grabbed a sickle in the garage and was ready to cut the swings rope. The rope, however, looked rusty and old. I lost count of how many times I fell each time I tried to cut it off.

On the very same day, I was late to find out that May had fallen from her bed in the hospital. Her head hit the bed frame that was made of metal. It was around the same time when I tried to cut the rope. She got up and eventually returned to bed, but she was gone before she could push the emergency button to call the nurses. I arrived there only to see her sleep for eternity.

***

I raised Hope on my own.

Hope never cried like most infants did when they were born. She was still awake around midnight. Even as she grew older, she never did cry. When she started crawling, all she did was head toward the window facing the swing.

The doctor said Hope was different, that shes a child with special needs. As much as I agreed with the doctor, I also believed that there was something inexplicable about her.

I always feel there is a gap between Hope and me. Every word I tell her only evaporates right before they reach her ears. Thankfully Aliyah is here. She has been helping me take care of her. Although I never say anything to her, each time she looks at me she seems to understand what has happened.

Deep down, I always try to love Hope. Im sure May would do the same. Unfortunately, I just cant. I always feel there is something inside Hope, especially when she stands by the window looking at the swing. Really, it somehow terrifies me. I think whoever knows what May and I did that night, will feel the same about Hope.

***

I ask some young people who always hung out around the security post to cut down the guava tree along with the swing. I gave them some money for my request.

Burn the swing until its gone, I tell them repeatedly. Remember, until theres nothing left!

They start moving vigorously. They borrow a chainsaw from a neighbor and start cutting the tree into parts. Within an hour, theyve already taken down the tree and the swing away from my yard. I imagine they must have started burning them in the villages landfill.

I accidentally run into Hope, who is standing by the window. Her gaze is empty. Then she begins to cry. I show no empathy to her. I already decided to get rid of the tree and swing in spite of my concerns about what will happen later. I start recalling the night May and I had the same dream, that one sentence that has been echoing in our heads: The swing will invite a life in your womb. You only have to make sure the swing will always be in your front yard.

I go to sleep with readiness in my heart. I know, just like what happened to May, my body will later fall and hit something. The next day, my body will be found without a pulse. Aliyah will be the first one to find my corpse, and Hope will perhaps smile with pleasure, just as she did the day I found Mays body lying in hospital.

 Translated by Liswindio Apendicaesar

***

Yudhi Herwibowo is a short story writer, novelist and owner of BukuKatta publishing. His recent novel is Halaman Terakhir (Nourabook).

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We are looking for contemporary fiction between 1,500 and 2,000 words by established and new authors. Stories must be original and previously unpublished in English. The email for submitting stories is: shortstory@thejakartapost.comThe official day of love  Valentine's Day  is just a day away.

Across Asia, lovers are busy trying to fix up last minute surprises for their partners and those without partners are hoping to find love. It is difficult to give the many red ribbons, little hearts, teddy bears, and coffee mugs with cheeky messages, lining the shelves of shops a miss. Hotels and restaurants are offering special packages to make the day memorable and florists and bakers are sure to go laughing all the way to the bank.

In South Asia, the anti-love brigade has upped its ante  ready to catch lovers unawares, especially those spilling into the streets or in parks  as a special lovers day is against their culture.

Read also: Stepping out for Valentine's day

There are some making a mockery of this day  as there cannot be a day of love, and some others dismissing the day as boring and a perfect marketing gimmick.

While there hasn't been much research in Asia, so far, one in four couples contacted in the US claim they find the Valentine's Day rituals boring, even though a whopping 80 percent are still eager to celebrate.

While men are expected to woo their women and shower them with gifts, Japan is an exception. Here it's the women who have to worry about buying that perfect gift.

Google Photos has introduced a special feature too - in honour of Cupid. "We even have a Valentines Day-themed movie for you and your sweetheart", Google product manager Julia Winn reportedly told the media.

Thailand

Thailand kicks in V-Day celebrations early. There are special dinners in romantic settings for sweethearts the entire month. Chocolates and gifts fly off the shelves. Quick getaways are also hot-selling.

After wooing couples with a helicopter trip last year, the Peninsula is offering a luxury cruise on a yacht to lovers, reports the Nation.

Many see the Valentines Day as the perfect day to propose. Thailand's Booking.com is trying to cash in on the idea by combining travel with Valentine's Day. ...you pop the ultimate question to your significant other  'Will you marry me?'  is ready with figures to show just how much happiness travel can bring, reports the Nation.

Indonesia

Chocolate, flower sales are expected to hit the ceiling in Indonesia, according to the Jakarta Post. Last year chocolate sales jumped by over 650 percent and flowers sales recorded a 250 percent increase.

Indonesia, a perfect getaway for a short holiday, is offering special spa treatments for lovers in Jakarta. The activity is not only romantic, but it also helps to rejuvenate you and your loved one, the Jakarta Post reported.

There's also a special Valentine's Day jewellery collection by Thomas Sabo. The line is called "Together". This apart from the usual symbols of love - the heart and the ring.

Read also: Chocolate, flower sales expected to soar ahead of Valentine's Day

Bangladesh

Away from the flowers and chocolates routine, lovers will be treated to a Valentine's Day special telefilm - Myth-jibi - a story that explores the various facets of a relationship.

Husband-wife duo Azizul and Zeenat Hakim teamed up for this. It cannot merely thrive on love. A relationship grows deeper with dependency, Zeenat tells the Daily Star.

The tulips are on sale. And there are recipe suggestions floating for making a special stay-at-home dinner.

India

People in love have learnt to take India's saffronised brigades' warnings to blacken faces or humiliate lovers in their stride. Young lovers are shopping for clothes - a little red dress or a flirty mini skirt - as an expert suggested to The Statesman.

In fact, some others are advising them to experiment with colour and not just stick to red  the colour of love.

Stylist Tanvi Malik tells lovers to try out pastel shades and go pink and mauve. Natascha Tate, another stylist, tells them to make it a blue Valentine.

Pakistan

In Pakistan, a fairly traditional society, many see Vaentine's Day as a western concept which is contrary to the Islamic culture. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority has a ban on promoting V-Day festivities.

While social media users mocking the regulatory body, the world knows that Pakistani lovers have smartened up over the years, and much like their neighbours across the border, have learnt to give the culture brigades a slip.

China

Valentine's Day is a once-a-year battle that shopping malls cannot afford to lose. Apart from discounts and promotions, decorations are also a critical factor in attracting customers, reports China Daily.

In downtown Shanghai a "Pink Love" season was launched last month especially for millennials, and a romantic comedy Miss Puff has hit screens just in time for Valentine's Day.

Based on the true story of a couple from Xi'an, the capital in Shaanxi province, the 95-minute feature tracks the love story of a Thailand-educated woman and a college student, who is five years younger than his love interest.

The celebrations coincide with the Chinese New Year - the Year of the Dog. The streets wear a festive look and everyone's home to be with family.

In Japan, it's the women who worry about the gift for their lover. The favour is returned a month later, according to a media report. In Cambodia, academic insitutes had to warn school kids last year from not confusing Valentines Day for a day to have sex, the Phnom Penh Post reported. A 2014 survey in Phnom Penh of 15- to 24-year-olds in couples found 15.8 per cent were planning to have sex that Valentines Day.

Valentine's Day dates back to ancient Rome and there are several stories about its origin.

The romantic holiday, according to Britannica Encyclopedia, originated from the Roman festival of Lupercalia where men and women were paired with each other through a lottery draw. The festival also included rites where women were hit by men, allegedly to boost their fertility. Britannica says by the end of the 5th century, Pope Galasius I replaced the festival with Saint Valentine's Day, an NDTV report says.

Read also: Four places to get couples spa treatments in Jakarta

Other versions claim the festival of love is named after a martyred saint called Valentine who was killed by King Claudius II Gothicus. As per other accounts, the holiday was named after Saint Valentine who secretly married off couples to spare their husbands from war.

One isn't sure if lovers needs a special day to celebrate love, but it is surely difficult to not cringe at the length the market forces can go to sell good old love.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 15:24 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c5209ae 1 Business Sri-Mulyani-Indrawati,Best-Minister-in-the-World,Jokowi,comments Free

President Joko Jokowi Widodo has praised Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati for being awarded Best Minister in the World at the World Government Summit in Dubai on Sunday.

Jokowi said the award was acknowledgment of the country's prudent fiscal management as well as careful and effective state budget planning and implementation.

This is recognition not only for one minister. I think all Indonesians are proud of the award, said Jokowi in Jakarta on Monday.

The award is based on an assessment by independent institution Ernst & Young and was presented during the World Government Summit in Dubai by United Arab Emirates Vice President Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The award has been given out annually since 2016.

In her acceptance speech, Sri Mulyani said the award was recognition of accomplishments made under the administration of President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, particularly in the economic sector.

She highlighted the hard work of civil servants working at her ministry in dealing with financial issues.

The World Government Summit is an annual event held in Dubai involving government representatives from all over the globe. At the forum, representatives of government officials, policy makers, experts and private companies exchange views about global trends.

The summit was attended by 4,000 participants and presented 90 speakers from 150 countries. (bbn)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 18:14 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52dc79 1 City accident,cyclist,community Free

Bicycle community Rocketers has installed a white bicycle on the sidewalk of Jl. Gatot Subroto in South Jakarta near the location of an accident that took the life of cyclist Sandi Syafiek, 37, on Saturday.

Surrounding the bicycle is a sprinkling of flowers and a white sign that reads, Share the Road.

Rocketers spokesman Iwe Nugroho said the white bicycle and white sign installation were intended to urge other road users to share the road with cyclists. If they understand, then such incidents will never happen, Iwe said, as quoted by tribunnews.com.

With millions of motorcycles and cars dominating Jakartas roads each day, cyclists struggle to remain safe as they cautiously traverse through traffic.

Incidents involving bicycles and cars remain high in the capital with 110 such incidents recorded in 2016, and 85 last year.

On Saturday, a speeding car hit two cyclists traveling along Jl. Gatot Subroto at around 6:20 a.m., resulting in the death of Sandy, who was a Bekasi resident and TV producer. The second victim, Maulana Aditya, suffered light injuries.

The driver of the car fled the scene but has since turned himself in to the police. (vny)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 13:19 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c51d3cd 1 Business money-in-circulation,IMF-WB-meeting,bali,October,2018,#IMFWBG Free

Bank Indonesia (BI) has projected that monetary circulation will reach Rp 4 trillion (US$293.19 million) by the time of the International Monetary Fund-World Bank (IMF-WB) Annual Meetings this October in Bali.

In comparison, circulation reached Rp 694.8 trillion last year, or a daily average of Rp 1.9 trillion.

The meetings will accelerate the economy in Bali, BI Bali office head Causa Iman Karana said on Sunday as reported by Antara.

During the annual meetings, a greater quantity of money in circulation is needed due to increased spending on accommodation, food and beverages, transportation, telecommunication and other supporting services and facilities.

Representatives from 189 member countries of the IMF and the World Bank are slated to attend the meetings, with an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 attendees comprising high-ranking government officials, businesspeople, academics and representatives from civil society organizations. The government had readied Rp 868 billion for infrastructure projects, delegates accommodation and other needs for the IMF-WB annual meeting.

It had also accelerated the construction of several infrastructure projects in preparation for the IMF-WB meetings, including building an underpass at the intersection to I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, expanding the airport apron and developing a tourism port at Benoa, Denpasar.

BI estimated that 2018 growth in the Balinese economy would reach 6 to 6.4 percent, from 5.59 percent growth in 2017. (ami/bbn)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Suherdjoko (The Jakarta Post) Semarang  Mon, February 12, 2018 17:45 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52c9f8 1 National Chinese-New-Year,imlek,Semarang,Central-Java,temple Free

Dozens of followers of Kong Hu Chu (Confucianism) cleaned holy statues at Tay Kak SIe Temple in Gang Lombok, Semarang, Central Java, over the weekend as part of an annual ritual to welcome Chinese New Year.

Each of the member of the congregation had their own part in the ritual -- some cleaned the statues while others cleaned temple rooms.

I have been cleaning three Buddha statues for the past 10 years. It has become the responsibility of me and two friends, so we know if there are damages or ornaments that need to be replaced, said Tjoan Hok, 71, over the weekend.

Another follower, Kian Hwa, cleaned 18 statues that represent Buddhas assistants in the temple along with his wife Inawati and several other followers.

We clean the statues as their spirits have risen to the sky. So the statues are now empty. Once they are cleaned, the spirits will return again, he said.

The cleaning procession started last week to welcome Chinese New Year, locally known as Imlek, on Feb. 16. The ritual has taken place at around 10 temples in the Chinatown area in Semarang, including Tay Kak Sie Temple, the city's biggest Tridharma (Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism) house of worship.

The Chinese community in Semarang will also hold a night market event from Feb. 12 to 14 to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The market will feature artistic displays and cultural attractions and traditional Chinese cuisine will be sold. (rin)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 13:08 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c51ba9f 1 Business Garuda-Indonesia,Garuda-Lifestyle-Protection,launching Free

In an effort to increase revenue from auxiliary products, Garuda Indonesia has launched an insurance service for members of GarudaMiles, its frequent flier program.

Developed in partnership with advisory firm Willis Tower Watson and insurance company PT Chubb General Insurance Indonesia, Garuda Lifestyle Protection provides coverage for wallet, handbag and document theft, as well as theft of electronic devices from cars and misuse of cell phone minutes.

The GarudaMiles program also gives members access to services like priority check-in, access to the Garuda lounge and an additional baggage allowance of 15 kilograms.

Garuda Lifestyle Protection is a reliable insurance solution that accommodates protection needs for the modern-day mobile lifestyle of the Garuda Indonesia customer, Chubb Indonesia president director Tai-Kuan Ly said.

Garuda president director Pahala Mansury said the launch of the insurance was in line with the airlines vision to provide additional services to its customers.

Our new vision at Garuda Indonesia is to grow beyond our core [customer base], and that means we have to provide more than just aviation services to our customers, Pahala said.

Garuda Indonesia spokesman Ikhsan Rosan told The Jakarta Post that the airline was aiming to earn US$54 million in ancillary revenue in 2018, up from $44 million last year. We are pursuing partnerships with banks, e-commerce companies and other insurance companies to achieve this goal, he said. (kmt/bbn)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 16:27 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52442f 1 City soekarno-hatta-airport,airport-train Free

A security officer was injured after a gate near Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten collapsed on Sunday.

The airport police spokesperson, Second Insp. Prayogo, confirmed the accident, saying [the incident] really happened and the victim has been taken to Mayapada Hospital [in Tangerang].

The officer, Edy Junaidy, was on duty when the steel gate separating the airport train railway and Jl. Perimeter Selatan collapsed onto him at around 9.40 a.m., tribunnews.com reported on Sunday.

Airport officers are investigating the cause of the accident. The door allegedly crashed down due to strong winds. (wnd)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 15:59 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52315e 1 City PKI,assault-case,bogor Free

Unknown people have assaulted a homeless man in Bogor over his assumed membership of the long-defunct Indonesian Communists Party (PKI).

A recording of the incident, widely spread on Facebook and WhatsApp since Saturday, attracted the attention of the police.

Bogor Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Andi M Dicky clarified that the homeless man was not a member of the PKI.

After investigating, we found that the victim is homeless and may be suffering from mental illness. We will assess his mental state [Monday], said Dicky on Sunday, as reported by tribunnews.com.

The video, which was taken in Cileungsi, Bogor, showed the victim at the receiving end of violence.

Six suspects alleged to be linked to the recording have been arrested for questioning. Police do not yet know why the homeless man was accused as being a PKI member. (jlm)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 18:50 1309 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52efa0 2 National IS,jakarta,terror-attack,Philippines Free

The Indonesian leader of an Islamic State-linked militant group was jailed for seven years Monday over plans to smuggle weapons from the southern Philippines, a court said.

Zainal Anshori, 43, head of Jamaah Ansharut Daulah, was found guilty of committing a "criminal act of terrorism" by the Jakarta court.

His group is believed to be responsible for several terror plots in Indonesia including a January 2016 attack in Jakarta that left eight people dead, including four militants.

Prosecutors had called for a 10-year prison term.

The cache of some 50 weapons, which did not reach their destination, were intended to be used in future attacks in Indonesia, the court said.

Indonesia, the world's biggest Muslim majority nation, has been on heightened alert following a string of IS-inspired attacks and plots.

Many jihadists from Indonesia -- which has long struggled with Islamist militancy -- have in recent years travelled to join IS in Syria and the Philippine city of Marawi.

Foreign and local IS supporters ravaged Marawi before being defeated in October, ending a five-month conflict with the military that left about 1,100 people dead.

Last week, a Jakarta court sentenced an Islamist militant to ten years in prison for buying a cache of guns from a rebel group in the Philippines.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Bambang Muryanto (The Jakarta Post) Yogyakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 19:55 1309 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c530a19 1 National Yogyakarta,church-attack,police Free

A police investigation into Suliyono, the sole suspect in an attack at St. Lidwina Catholic church in Sleman regency, Yogyakarta, started on Monday with the interrogation of the suspect.

The police shot the 23-year-old suspect in the leg to immobilize him after he allegedly attacked churchgoers with a sword during Mass at the church on Sunday morning.

The National Polices counterterrorism squad Densus 88 would also be involved in the investigation, Yogyakarta Police chief Brig. Gen. Ahmad Dofiri said.

Yogyakarta Police questioned 11 witnesses to the incident and are looking into the activities of Suliyono, who hails from Banyuwangi, East Java, prior to the attack.

One priest, three churchgoers and one policeman were injured in the incident. Statues of Mary and Jesus inside the church were also defaced.

Suliyono was immobilized when Gamping Police officer First Adj. Insp. Al Munir shot him in the leg.

The police met with several mass organizations in Yogyakarta to disseminate information about the incident after vague information spread through social media.

[To prevent] Yogyakarta residents from being provoked, Ahmad said. (rin)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Anna Malpas with Thibault Marchand (Agence France-Presse) Moscow, Russia  Mon, February 12, 2018 15:45 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52214f 2 World Russia,Crash,airline-safety,investigation Free

Investigators will examine Monday numerous possible causes of one of Russia's worst ever aviation accidents that saw a passenger plane carrying 71 people crash near Moscow minutes after take off, killing everyone on board.

Russia's Investigative Committee said it would consider explanations including human error, technical failure and weather conditions, as the country has experienced record snowfall in recent weeks. But it did not mention the possibility of terrorism.

The Antonov An-148 plane went down in the Ramensky district on the outskirts of Moscow at 2:48 pm (1128 GMT) on Sunday after taking off from Domodedovo airport in the capital.

A surveillance camera captured the the moment a plane crashed near Moscow on Sunday, killing 71 people on board. Russias transport minister said that "judging by everything, no one has survived this crash." https://t.co/4z01OtnXde pic.twitter.com/g6LN9F4XnP  CBS News (@CBSNews) February 11, 2018

"Sixty-five passengers and six crew members were on board, and all of them died," Russia's office of transport investigations said in a statement

Three children were among the fatalities on a list published by Russian authorities.

The flight was operated by the domestic Saratov Airlines and was headed for Orsk, a city in the Ural mountains.

More than 400 people and 70 vehicles had been deployed to the crash site, the country's emergency ministry said.

The site was enveloped in heavy snow, making it difficult to access, with emergency workers forced to park their vehicles and reach the wreckage by foot. Others used snowmobiles and drones to survey the scene.

Russian transport minister Maksim Sokolov said "genetic expertise" would be needed to help identify the victims, adding that it could "take two or three months".

"I felt a shock wave," Maria, a resident of a village near the crash site, told AFP.

"The windows shook," she said

The transport investigations office said the plane disappeared from radar screens around four minutes after take-off.

A regional official said the aircraft's black box had been retrieved.

The Russian-made plane was reportedly seven years old and bought by Saratov Airlines from another Russian airline a year ago.

Saratov was founded in the 1930s and flies to 35 Russian cities. Its hub is Saratov Central Airport in southern Russia.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Fred DUFOUR and Joanna CHIU (Agence France-Presse) Beijing  Mon, February 12, 2018 17:14 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52acb8 2 World China,Lunar-New-Year Free

Millions have begun heading home from Beijing for Lunar New Year, but many this year will not return as China's capital becomes increasingly unwelcoming for the migrants from the provinces who once powered its economy.

Crowds carrying parcels and suitcases and packs of instant noodles gathered at the Beijing West Railway Station Saturday, waiting to board packed trains ahead of the most important holiday on the Chinese calendar.

Throughout the country, hundreds of millions will be on the move in the world's largest annual human migration.

Among them Saturday was Li Wen, a 47-year-old restaurant worker and one of many Beijing residents who has bought a one-way ticket in the face of a campaign of demolitions that has made life impossible for many of the city's migrant workers.

She moved to the capital ten years ago to earn money to support her daughter, who now attends university in Chengdu.

However, many migrants like her are no longer welcome in the overcrowded city, which seeks to cap its population at 23 million by 2020 and demolish 40 million square meters of illegal structures  mostly shops and homes for low-income residents.

"I came to Beijing to work because the salaries in the capital are much better than elsewhere. But in my neighborhood, many of the hutong (alleyway single-story) homes have been torn down already," Li told AFP.

"I won't be able to survive in the city if I need to pay three times more to rent in a normal apartment building," she said.

- Breathing space -

Travellers must be home by Thursday to usher in the new year on Friday. But getting there is an ordeal.

On one 28-hour train journey from Beijing to the southwestern city of Chengdu, only the lucky passengers were able to snag a seat.

Many had to stand for the entire trip, clogging the aisles. Meals on plastic trays were passed from passenger to passenger.

To get some breathing space in the hot and stuffy carriages, some people stood on top of the seats, surveying the scene below.

But few complained. They passed the time playing on smartphones, sharing food and chatting with fellow passengers. Even the children mostly stayed quiet.

Yet the mood in the dining car was somber despite the cheerful red and gold Lunar New Year decorations. Like Li, some of those stuffed into the train do not plan to return to Beijing when the 15-day festival is over.

"The Beijing authorities don't want migrant workers to reside here. They call it economic upgrading," said Pablo Wang of China Labour Bulletin.

"A lot of migrants are going back home. With these policies, they cannot come back."

Authorities say the campaign to demolish sub-standard housing, which kicked into high gear after a fire in an illegal structure killed 19 people in November, is necessary to clean the city up once and for all.

Fire safety is a major problem in the city's cheap migrant housing, which often has jerry-rigged electrical wiring and a lack of emergency exits.

But the brutal efficiency of the demolitions and mass evictions over the past year has provoked an unusual public outcry that has put officials on edge.

- Three billion trips -

Although relegated to the periphery, migrants have kept China's economy humming -- handling the dreary, difficult, dirty and sometimes dangerous work that the city's permanent residents shun.

Industries like construction, domestic work and sanitation are almost completely staffed by migrants. Their exodus from Beijing took a toll on the city's growth last year, which slowed from a year earlier.

On Sunday transport officials reported a slight drop in the number of trips made during the first ten days of this year's holiday travel period. Chinese passengers made 732 million trips by railway, road, waterway and plane from February 1 to February 10, down three percent from last year.

The transport ministry attributed the drop to university students and migrant workers who returned home before the rush started. Many migrants left the city last November and December as authorities evicted hundreds of thousands.

During last year's lunar rush, Chinese passengers made almost three billion trips during the festival travel period, according to the official Xinhua news agency.

Li has still not yet decided if she will try her luck in a different city after the holiday.

"My daughter just started university so she won't be able to work, and I'll have to keep working to support her," she said.

"But I don't have any plans.... I'll just see what happens."Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 20:19 1309 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c5324bf 1 City Tangerang,murder,family Free

A mother and her two children living in the Taman Kota II residential area in Periuk, Tangerang, Banten, were found murdered in their house on Monday.

Jatiuwung Police chief Comr. Eliantoro Jalmaf said he could not provide any information regarding the motive for the murders yet. We are currently examining the crime scene, he said as quoted by tribunnews.com.

The bloodstained bodies of the three victims were found at around 3 p.m. in a bedroom, while the father was found unconscious in another room. The father had suffered a stab wound.

Tangerang Police chief Sr. Comr. Harry Kurniawan explained separately that the case came to light when the victims neighbors had become worried as they had not seen the family since Monday morning.

The neighbors then entered the house and found the victims.

The bodies were sent to Tangerang General Hospital for autopsies, while the father was taken to Sari Asih Hospital to receive treatment. (vny)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 15:56 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c522941 1 National Jokowi,joko-widodo,church-attack,intolerance Free

President Joko Jokowi Widodo has stressed the importance of upholding religious freedom as guaranteed under the Constitution, saying that the government would not allow for acts of intolerance.

Our Constitution guarantees religious freedom. Therefore, we will not give even the slightest amount of room to those who promote and spread intolerance in our country. Especially those who act with violence, he said at the Foreign Ministry in Jakarta on Monday.

The Presidents statement came as a response to an incident at St. Lidwina, a Catholic church in Sleman regency, Yogyakarta, in which a man reportedly attacked churchgoers with a sword during a Mass on Sunday morning, injuring a Catholic priest and several others.

Jokowi said that as a country with a wide range of cultures and religions, Indonesians had coexisted peacefully for many years. Still, he added, such incidents might take place, especially at a time in which the flow of information allows for the spread of intolerance.

He said he had instructed the authorities to investigate the case thoroughly.

I have ordered the authorities to take firm actions. The state will consequently uphold the Constitution, he added. (rin)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Brussels, Belgium  Mon, February 12, 2018 20:50 1309 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c535a1e 2 World Oxfam,charity,Haiti,prostitution Free

The EU on Monday ordered Oxfam to explain itself over a 2011 prostitution scandal in Haiti, warning charities that the bloc would cut their funding if they breached ethical standards.

UK-based Oxfam has been left reeling by reports in the Times newspaper that senior staff hired young sex workers in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake which devastated the island.

The charity's chiefs have been summoned by the British government to explain their handling of the scandal amid accusations it covered up the episode.

The European Union said Monday it took a "zero tolerance" approach to misconduct by NGO partners.

"We expect Oxfam to fully clarify the allegations with maximum transparency as a matter of urgency, and we're ready to review and, if needed, cease funding to any partner who is not living up to the required high ethical standards," spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic told reporters.

The EU provided Oxfam with 1.7 million euros in funding in 2011, she said.

Oxfam, which employs around 5,000 staff and has 23,000 more volunteers, has announced new measures to tackle sexual abuse cases, though Chief Executive Mark Goldring has insisted there was no cover-up in 2011.

The charity is accused of failing to warn other aid agencies about the staff involved, which allowed them to get jobs among vulnerable people in other disaster areas.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 10:57 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c512f39 1 Business rubber-prices,increase,exports,reduction,ITRC-International-Tripartite-Rubber-Council Free

Global natural rubber prices have increased by 5 percent in January thanks to reduced supply from exporting countries, according to the Trade Ministry.

On Dec. 22, 2017, the International Tripartite Rubber Council (ITRC), which consists of Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia, decided to implement an agreed export tonnage scheme (AETS), the fifth such scheme from the council.

The ITRC agreed to reduce the natural rubber export volume by 350,000 tons for three months, from January to March 2018, Trade Ministry International Trade Director General Oke Nurwan said in a statement on Friday.

The result is that the natural rubber price has increased by 5 percent.

Oke said the average price for natural rubber, according to the International Rubber Conference Organizations (IRCO) daily composite price (14-day moving average) increased from US$1.46 on Dec. 21 to $1.54 on Jan. 31. He added that the ITRC monitoring committee would continue to evaluate the results of the AETS every month.

The AETS implementation in Indonesia has been supported by Trade Ministery Decree No. 67/20018, he said. The decree designates members of the Indonesian Rubber Association (Gapkindo) as the implementers of the AETS and threatens those who violate the terms of the scheme with sanctions.

The value of Indonesias rubber exports has decreased by 20.7 percent since 2012, while export volumes have stayed relatively steady. According to data from the Central Statistics Agency, Indonesia exported 2.44 million tons of rubber worth $7.86 billion in 2012, while in 2017, Indonesia exported 2.77 million tons with a value of $4.77 billion. (kmt/bbn)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Arya Dipa (The Jakarta Post) Bandung, West Java  Mon, February 12, 2018 18:25 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52e718 1 National lawsuit,bandung,Islamic-boarding-schools,school,layoffs Free

Some 116 teachers have filed a lawsuit against the Mahad Al-Zaytun Indonesian Islamic Boarding School Foundation for the latters alleged failure to pay salaries and severance pay to the teachers amounting to Rp 13 billion (US$952,900).

Dozens of former teachers, attended the first hearing at the Bandung Commercial Court in West Java on Monday. They filed their lawsuit at the court as part of efforts to demand the school pay their salaries from December 2016 to January 2018.

The first hearing, however, was adjourned by presiding Judge Waspin Simbolon because of the absence of the schools representatives. The hearing will resume on Feb. 26 when the judge will read out the lawsuit.

The case started when the school, founded by leader Panji Gumilang, allegedly dismissed the 116 teachers without notice on Jan 1, 2017. The teachers were also barred from entering the school to ask for clarification. Moreover, no severance pay or salaries had reportedly been paid since the dismissals.

Mustaqim, 51, one of the former teachers urged Al Zaytun to fulfill its obligations to the employees by upholding their rights.

We are teachers, promoted through official letters and we are also certified teachers. But now, our fate is unclear, he said.

The teachers had reached out to the foundation by inviting a third party, the West Java Empowerment Agency, to mediate. However, no settlement emerged after three meetings, which prompted the teachers to file the lawsuit, Mustaqim said.

The teachers had also reported the case to the Indonesian Ombudsmans Office last year. (rin)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin R. Berto Wedhatama (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12 2018

In the middle of January, BMW Indonesia officially introduced the seventh generation BMW 5 series: the all-new BMW 520i Luxury Line.

The BMW 5 series first entered the Indonesian market in 1972, and this year, the German manufacturer introduced its latest all-new BMW 520i Luxury Line, which is fully assembled in Indonesia by PT Gaya Motor.

BMW claims the vehicle boasts the best materials in its class.

At first glance, it looks like a member of the BMW 7 series. This car also applies the BMW Efficient Light Weight concept adopted by the latest BMW 7 series, but there is a lot of technological improvements in the al...Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Washington  Mon, February 12, 2018 07:51 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c50d23c 2 Business trump,infrastructure-development Free

Donald Trump's administration will sketch out more details of its plan to invest in America's creaking infrastructure Monday, hoping it can leverage up to $1.5 trillion for the cause.

Senior White House officials said the president's budget, due to be released on Monday, will include $200 billion earmarked for projects to fix roads, bridges and other crucial infrastructure.

Under the proposals, states and private investors would put up the remaining $1.3 trillion.

Trump, playing up his background in construction, had made fixing US infrastructure a core campaign pledge and already announced the $1.5 trillion plan in his State of the Union address last month.

On Monday, the administration will put more flesh on the bones, including ideas for cutting the length of the permitting process to two years.

"Infrastructure is obviously a critical component to the functioning of our economy, a lot of American success is a result of the quality of the infrastructure we have had historically," said a senior White House official.

"But the current system is fundamentally broken."

"We are under-investing in our infrastructure and we have a permitting process that takes so long that even when funds are adequate it can take a decade to build critical infrastructure."

It will now be up to Congress to discuss the proposal and Trump will host lawmakers from both parties at the White House on Wednesday to make his case.

He will likely face fierce questions about what the administration is willing to fund, including questions about whether any money will go to so-called climate-proofing.

The Trump administration has questioned global warming and the president has called it a hoax.

Fiscal hawks are likely to question where the money will come from, so soon after tax and congressional spending deals that are expected to explode the deficit.

The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget has estimated that the spending plan passed by Congress last week will alone increase the deficit by $420 billion over a decade.

The Trump administration says the funding will come from cuts in other programs, which will be outlined in his budget proposal.

White House officials acknowledge the plan is just the opening salvo in the back-and-forth with Congress.

Experts have warned that poor roads, rail and air traffic systems are costing the US economy a fortune.

According to civil engineer Henry Petroski, traffic congestion alone costs the United States $120 billion per year.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 16:54 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c526791 1 City fire,West-Jakarta Free

Twelve houses were destroyed when a fire ripped through a neighborhood in Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta, on Monday.

The West Jakarta Fire and Rescue Agency's fire prevention and rescue unit head, Rompis Romlih, said the cause of the fire was thought to be a short circuit in a house in the neighborhood.

The fire started on the second floor of a residents house. We deployed 15 firetrucks to deal with the blaze, Rompis said as quoted by Warta Kota.

Rosmah, a resident, said she was ironing her clothes when the fire started.

The fire started all of a sudden, I didnt know where it came from. I noticed smoke and then the fire had already reached my room, said Rosmah, whose first instinct was to save her two children.

Another resident, Yati, said she was taking a bath when smoke filled the room.

I panicked and called for my children. I went to call my husband at work, but all of our phones were in the house, recounted Yati, who said she could not save her belongings from the raging flames. (jlm)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 12:25 1310 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c51af43 1 City brawl,East-Jakarta Free

A student brawl has claimed two lives in East Jakarta in the early hours of Sunday.

The victims were identified only as DK, 14, a student of SMP high school Widya Manggala, and MR, a student of SD 9 elementary school Susukan.

MR and DK died from multiple stab wounds all over their bodies, Ciracas Police chief Comr. Agus Widar was quoted as saying by kompas.com.

According to the preliminary police investigation, Agus added, the brawl began on Jl. Gudang Air, Kampung Rambutan, East Jakarta, at 3 a.m. DK died on the scene. The fight continued on Jl. Puskesmas, where MR was found dead.

We are investigating the case to find [those] who initiated the brawl, he said. (vla/dmr)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, February 12, 2018 20:05 1309 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c531ce4 1 City assault-case,Youth,West-Jakarta Free

An ustad (Islamic teacher) has been assaulted by a gang of youths in Palmerah, West Jakarta, the police confirmed on Monday.

Jakarta Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Argo Yuwono confirmed that the incident occurred late Saturday, saying the youths felt incensed after the victim, 40-year-old Abdul Basyit, repeatedly told them off for untoward behavior in the neighborhood.

The youths frequently disturbed the peace by sleeping in front of the mosque, urinating in public and making a commotion, said Argo.

Al-Ikhlas mushalla (small mosque) located on Jl. KH Syahdan is a frequent haunt of the youths, who had been reprimanded repeatedly by the victim over the past two weeks.

Four teenagers have been detained and charged under Article 170 of the Criminal Code (KUHP), which carries a seven-year prison sentence. At least seven suspects are on the run.

National Police chief Gen. Tito Karnavian said the incident was purely criminal in nature. He asked the public not to connect the crime to religion, following recent religious-tinged incidents across the country. (jlm)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Stefani Ribka (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, February 13 2018

Development of the Arun Lhokseumawe special economic zone (SEZ) is on track with the signing Monday of five business agreements, as witnessed by the provincial administration.

The five business cooperation deals cover various sectors, including gas refineries, palm oil, plywood processing and cement logistics.

The Office of the Coordinating Economic Ministers SEZ board secretary, Enoh Suharto, said the processi...Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, February 13 2018

A security officer was injured after a gate near a railway track at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, collapsed on Sunday.



Airport police spokesperson Second Insp. Prayogo confirmed the accident, saying it really happened and the victim has been taken to Mayapada Hospital [in Tangerang].



The officer, Edy Junaidy, was on duty when a steel gate separating the airport train railway and Jl. Perimeter Selatan collapsed onto him at around 9:40 a.m., tribunnews.com reported on Sunday.



Airport officers are investigating the cause of the accident. The door allegedly collapsed due to strong winds.



Last week, a landslide caused a retaining wall to collapse near a railway overpass and a street, trapping a car under debris and soil for hours.



The driver was killed in the accident while a passenger survived with injuries.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, February 13 2018

Teuku Zefrial, 45, a lawyer in Jakarta, recalled a difficult period in his life during which he fought a hard battle against schizophrenia.



Zefrials most difficult experience was in 2009 when he could not sleep for four days because he was hearing voices in his head.



Zefrials cousin, who was worried about his condition, suggested he get some food at a fast food restaurant. Zefrial took up his suggestion and left his house for a local eatery, before an incident suddenly change his life.



Zefrial said he could barely remember anything when he found himself locked in a cell inside a residential care home in Cihideung, Tasikmalaya, West Java. From the explanations he was given from his cousin after he recovered, he learned that he had suddenly passed out on his way to the restaurant, forcing his family to seek treatment for him.



They [residential car...Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia  Mon, February 12, 2018 19:25 1309 2c798a31c212039f000dc5df9c52f876 2 SE Asia Malaysia,Singapore,high-speed-rail,project Free

A powerful European consortium that includes Alstom and Siemens has partnered with a Malaysian firm to bid for a high-speed train project connecting Malaysia and Singapore, the companies announced Monday.

The consortium is expected to face an array of competing bidders, including those from China and Japan.

The 350-kilometre (217-mile) link that will connect Singapore with the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur is targeted to be completed by 2026.

Bids must be submitted by the middle of this year and the contract is expected to be awarded by year-end.

The railway is expected to cut travel time between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore to 90 minutes from about four to five hours currently by road. It takes an average 50 minutes to travel by plane.

There is currently no train service between the two capitals.

As well as Germany's Siemens and France's Alstom, the other consortium members are Italy's Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane and Austrian construction firm PORR.

They will partner with Malaysian engineering firm George Kent to bid for the project.

"This partnership shall result in a powerful team combining European technology and project experience with the best local experience," said a joint statement filed with the Malaysian stock exchange.

Alstom last year announced a merger with Siemens to be completed in 2018.Elizabethtown is a romantic comedy-drama starring Orlando Bloom and Kirsten Dunst - the perfect film to enjoy with your SO this Valentine's Day!

Image courtesy of Paramount Pictures

Drew (Bloom), a young shoe designer that has made a massive mistake in the design of a shoe, costing his company millions of dollars, is planning to kill himself. When his father dies while away in his old hometown of Kentucky, Drew has to fly all the way to Elizabethtown to arrange the funeral. On the way, he meets Claire (Dunst), a very optimistic flight attendant who eventually accompanies him through the process of dealing with his failure, his loss, and his extravagant small town family.

This is a love story about many different types of love. First and foremost, we have the obvious type: the romantic relationship between Drew and Claire, whose chemistry from the beginning will make you wish you were as lucky as them. Their love story feels so pure and innocent, with a perfect pace that makes it absolutely believable (which is something hard to achieve in a movie that happens over just a few days).

Theres also the love felt for a parent, and the hearbreak of knowing that they are gone forever. Throughout the movie, Drew realizes how much he loves his dad, and how much he is going to miss him. We accompany him in the very relatable roller-coaster that is losing a parent, and we get to feel his confusion, his shock, and his pain.

The film is also filled with the love of friendship and family. Drew is quite surprised at how many people loved his dad, and he himself learns to love and appreciate his family, overcoming the differences that divide them. Drews mum (played by Susan Sarandon) also comes to terms with her husbands family in the end, in the most endearing and touching way possible. Eventually, their love for Mitch brings them all together.

And last but definitely not least, theres love for oneself. Drew has lost any faith in himself and secretly wants to end his life, but Claire teaches him the importance of getting up after falling, and that he needs to overcome his failure and keep going. Like she says, Sadness is easier because its surrender. I say make time to dance alone with one hand waving free.

Elizabethtown is such a wonderful movie. It is a simple film that portrays life as it is, a story about a bunch of characters so well-made that youll feel like youve known them forever. It is so easy to like this movie, yet so difficult to describe why it is so great. The film makes you feel with the characters, and I guess that's what makes it so charming and entertaining. This film is very special, full of humanity and love. Perhaps the best word to describe it is bittersweet. Elizabethtown is so great that it will make you smile, laugh and cry, all at the same time. This Valentines Day

is the perfect time to watch this wonderful love story!



Gus Kenworthy, 26, a freestyle skier, and figure skater Adam Rippon, 28, posed for a series of photos which show them embracing each other and celebrating during the 2018 opening ceremony in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

The photos were shared on social media where theyve since racked up thousands of likes.

The Opening Ceremony is a wrap and the 2018 Winter Olympic Gaymes are officially under way! Gus wrote on Instagram, notably putting a twist on the spelling of the word games.

I feel incredibly honoured to be here in Korea competing for the US and Im so proud to be representing the LGBTQ community alongside this amazing guy.

Eat your heart out, Pence.

Tonight I walked in the #OpeningCeremony and got to watch my old friend @Yunaaaa light the Olympic flame. Representing the USA is one of the greatest honors of my life and being able to do it as my authentic self makes it all so much sweeter pic.twitter.com/ZypvWkUBjD  Adam Rippon (@Adaripp) 9 February 2018

Kenworthy also posted the photos on Twitter, tagging Rippon, he wrote alongside them: Were here. Were queer. Get used to it. @Adaripp #Olympics #OpeningCeremony Rippon responded: Representing the USA is one of the greatest honors of my life and being able to do it as my authentic self makes it all so much sweeter.Mike Pence is the head of the US Olympic delegation, a position both Rippon and Kenworthy have criticised. Speaking on The Ellen Show last week, Kenworthy called the Vice President a bad fit. Meanwhile, Rippon told USA today, I would absolutely not go out of my way to meet somebody who I felt has gone out of their way to not only show that they arent a friend of a gay person but that they think that theyre sick. I wouldnt go out of my way to meet somebody like that. Pence has one of the worst records on equality of any President or Vice President in recent history and for years he has allegedly been linked with supporting gay conversion therapy. As well as this, when he was the Governor of Indiana, he passed the controversial Religious Freedom Restoration Act, giving businesses and organisations the right to discriminate against gay people on the grounds of religion by refusing to serve them.The Vice President has dismissed claims of any tension between him, Kenworthy and Rippon, calling suggestions he doesnt support them fake news. Tweeting Rippon Pence said, I want you to know we are FOR YOU. Dont let fake news distract you. I am proud of you and ALL OF OUR GREAT athletes and my only hope for you and all of #TeamUSA is to bring home the gold. Go get em!Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis has promised to send more Tory MPs to universities in a bid to protect free speech after a student protest disrupted a talk Jacob Rees-Mogg was giving.

Mr Rees-Mogg was speaking earlier this month at an event held by the University of West Englands Politics and International Relations Society when he was disrupted by a group of masked protesters.

The North East Somerset MP attempted to make conversation with the protesters, however, things turned violent when a Rees-Mogg supporter allegedly hit a female protester, Andreea Dumitrache, sparking a minor scuffle on stage.

Following the incident, which was caught on camera and widely circulated on social media, Mr Lewis sent an impassioned email to Party members declaring his intention to ensure Conservative voices are heard in universities across the country and calling on members to sign a petition for free speech against violence, intimidation and abuse in politics.

Responsibility for the protest at UWE has since been claimed by Bristol Anti-Fascists, who called it a complete success in a post on Facebook. The group say they disrupted the talk due to Mr Rees-Moggs homophobic and anti abortion beliefs, his opposition to bills that would help the poor, supporting the privatisation of the welfare state and mingling with the traditional Britain group, which they declared was Islamophobic [and] anti immigrant.

This is not the first time Mr Rees-Mogg has courted controversy over free speech at universities. A previous speech of his at King's College London sparked accusations of censorship when safe space marshals, responsible for maintaining Kings College London Student Unions safe space policy, were deployed.SDSU's Frost Arena to become First Bank & Trust Arena with $50M renovation

The renovation, which will have an estimated total cost of $50 million, is expected to take two years and will be done in phases to avoid interruption of SDSU events.Security cameras have captured the moment a severely drunk man managed to topple out of a moving vehicle into the middle of the road in China.

The footage, posted on the site Weibo, shows the white SUV driving down the road when the door suddenly opens and the man falls out.

The car however keeps moving and only pauses for a few moments further up the road to avoid a jaywalking pedestrian.

Local news site Shanghaiist reports the footage was taken in January from Taicang county in the Jiangsu province.

The couple were supposedly heading home from a dinner party when the husband opened the door to throw up and made his abrupt exit from the vehicle.

Local police say the woman eventually realised her husband was missing and turned around to fetch him a few minutes later.

It is not clear whether the man sustained any injuries from the accident.

Newshub.

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A password will be e-mailed to you.If anything happens to me, please tell my story. This was...An Israeli woman was shot to death in Mexico after a robbery went wrong on Friday. The woman was driving near the town of Tulum, which is south of Cancun in the southern Yucatan province of Mexico when she was shot and killed. According to reports coming out of Mexico, the woman held numerous citizenships and was also a citizen of Canada. The womans husband told police that she was carrying a large amount of cash at the time that she was shot.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed the details of the story and added that the Israeli Consul in Mexico, Idit Davidovic, together with the Israeli delegation of the Foreign Ministry are assisting in bringing the womans body back to Israel for burial.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)Floated at a pound a pop in August 2016, shares in remote meetings technology firm LoopUp Group have soared since then.

By the middle of June 2017, they were up to 150p, since when they have doubled, helped by a strong performance in 2017 as revenues and profits soared.

The markets had been expecting as much after LoopUp reported solid first-half results back in September and revealed that the strong performance had continued into the second half.

LoopUp's core product aims to make audio conferencing a whole lot simpler, and more productive using traditional telephony supplied by tier-one operators across four global centres

Revenues, profits and margins in 2017 were well ahead of 2016, driven by strong demand from mid-to-large companies for LoopUp's eponymous flagship conferencing product.

Among those signed up in the second half of 2017 was a major newspapers and media group, a leading asset management firm and a global human rights organisation.

LoopUp at a Glance AIM ticker: LOOP Market value: 132mln Current share price: 298p Year high: 413p Low: 115p

In a nutshell, the company's core product aims to make audio conferencing a whole lot simpler, and more productive.

It is estimated that 13 minutes  or around a third of these sessions  are wasted trying to patch people or repeating information for the late-comers.

It is an irritant, but if you look at the impact on an international scale and frame it in terms of lost man-hours, then it adds up to a 14bn-a-year brake on productivity in the UK and US alone.

So, the company is addressing a potentially massive market.

Sure, there are alternative communications platforms out there developed by software firms and telecommunication companies, but they either fail to address the familiar chaos or are just too complicated to encourage widespread adoption.

There are alternative communications platforms out there developed by software firms but they either fail to address the familiar chaos or are just too complicated

LoopUp, on the other hand, thinks its system has cracked the problem.

Using Microsoft Outlook it takes just two clicks to organise a meeting and LoopUp sends out alerts to the host when their first guest joins the meeting.

It uses traditional telephony supplied by tier-one operators across four centres globally, but dial-in numbers aren't the preferred method for joining LoopUp meetings.

Rather, you simply click a link displayed on your computer, smartphone and tablet, and LoopUp then calls you on the phone of your choice.

Onscreen is displayed the participants  so you know who is there and who exactly is talking.

Users can even share biographical details via LinkedIn and there is a 'big, orange, Fisher Price-type button' on the desktop that allows them to share documents and presentations.

The AIM-quoted company reported a 36% rise in LoopUp revenues to 17.5mln (2016: 13.6mln), while gross profits jumped 40% to 13.4mln (2016: 9.6mln) as margins improved to 76.7% (2016: 74.5%).

Underlying earnings (EBITDA) surged 161% higher in the year to 3.5mln (2016: 1.3mln) and LoopUp finished the year with net cash of 2.9mln.

LoopUp co-chief executives Michael Hughes, pictured left, and Steve Flavell, pictured right, are confident in the company's future growth

'We're very pleased to report continued strong business performance ahead of market expectations,' said co-chief executives Steve Flavell and Michael Hughes.

'Our track record of consistent revenue growth has been maintained and has, in fact, accelerated on a constant currency basis.

'Our strategy of focusing on the needs and challenges of discerning mainstream business conference callers, who want a high quality, non-intimidating experience on every call, continues to resonate and return strong, consistent and efficient business growth.'

Flavell and Hughes added: 'Looking ahead into 2018, we continue to see strong demand for the LoopUp product and we remain confident in our ability to deliver future growth.'

The technology firm naturally prospers when one of its customers expands geographically because it follows that the more people a company employs in diverse locations, the greater the need for LoopUp's technology, which means the company naturally sees mid-to-large enterprises as a growth opportunity.

However, the professional services sector is also a rich seam for the company to mine, even at the smaller end of the scale, as these customer-facing companies typically have a need to hold remote meetings with their clients.

'We see growth continuing to come from both of those target groups,' Flavell has said.Vue International is making its first foray into Saudi Arabia just months after a 35-year ban on commercial cinemas was lifted.

The firm has paired with Abdulmohsin Al Hokair Holding Group  which operates a raft of leisure and hospitality centres  to launch 30 cinemas over the next three years.

International outlook: The firm has paired with Abdulmohsin Al Hokair Holding Group to launch 30 cinemas over the next three years

The joint venture will see Vue establish cinemas in some of Al Hokairs existing sites as well as new developments, with the first cinema expected to open its doors later this year.

The Saudi government said it expected 300 cinemas to be open by 2030.MBABANE  Patients diagnosed with diseases that need specialised medical treatment can heave a sigh of relief as they can now receive the required care.



This is because patients receiving treatment under the Phalala Fund can now access services in South African medical facilities. The services were cut after government failed to pay a debt of about E170 million which has since been paid off.



Not only ordinary Swazis were affected by this state of affairs, but government employees under the Civil Servants Medical Referral Scheme is well.

However, things are now back in order, as week in and week out, a number of Swazis, mainly cancer patients, travel to South Africa for treatment.



According to Phalala Fund Administrator Thabisile Dlamini, about 120 patients are currently in South African hospitals for treatment. Dlamini said the debt had been paid off.

She said it was not the first time that South African hospitals stopped Swazis from getting treatment. She explained that this was caused by the fact that many people were accessing the services, and the charges were extremely high in some cases.



For example, there are a number of patients in South African hospitals who have been in hospital for a long while, and their costs had run up to E100 000, she said. She said these were categorised as high-cost patients. Dlamini said when the money reached a certain amount, the South African hospitals stopped accepting patients until government made payment.

She said some of the patients were admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICU) and the cost per day ran up to E14 000.



She said for most cancer patients, the treatment lasted for about five years per person, and the majority of paients currently in South Africa for treatment were being treated for cancer. She said the patients who receive treatment through Phalala Fund were divided into three categories, depending on the treatment they were getting. She said the money government spent on these patients varied.

Dlamini said the patients, besides the fees government paid for treatment, had to fork out money for accommodation for the patients.



She said the first category consisted mainly of cancer patients, who did not need any help, and were in South Africa for their chemotherapy treatment.

She said these were housed in lodges which cost E600 per day, and the patients were given three meals.

MBABANE  A mother of two has sustained severe injuries after she was allegedly beaten by the father of her children with an electric cable all over the body.



According to *Happy, not only did the father of her children assault her with the electric cable, but he also used an iron rod. The incident happened at Gobholo, an area situated in the outskirts of Mbabane. The survivor alleged that trouble began when she asked her lover, *Musa about ochre (ligusha) which she found in his house at Gobholo when she paid him a visit.

Happy alleged that she agreed with Musa that she would visit him without notifying him after her lover had promised to be faithful when begging for reconciliation following a break-up that bordered around infidelity. She said her sole intention was to establish who cooked the ligusha for Musa since as far as she knew, he could not cook it. Happy said the manner in which the ligusha was cooked left her with the impression that it was cooked by a woman.



I had a problem with someone cooking for the father of my children because he told me that he had separated with his girlfriend before he begged for reconciliation. I did not know that I was opening a can of worms by asking about the ligusha, said the survivor.



When questioned further, the survivor revealed that apart from the ligusha, there were some pending issues between her and the father of her children. She said some of the issues resulted in her relocating to her parental homestead at Mvutshini after Musa deserted her with the children at the homestead which they built together near his parental homestead at Gobholo. He always demanded that I relocate to Gobholo with the children yet he failed to take full responsibility while we were still together. I almost committed suicide due to the hellish life I was subjected to, she said.



Happy said she was saved by the quick intervention of her employer who advised her to seek counselling from the Royal Swaziland Police under the Domestic Violence Department.

She said she had a desire to meet with the organisations which were dealing with abuse related issues in the country.



Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent, Khulani Mamba confirmed the matter. Mamba said the police were investigating the case.MBABANE - Seeing that it is still a new baby, the Swaziland Communications Commission (SCCOM) has given Swazi Mobile first preference over Swazi MTN.



This is through the granting of a frequency spectrum which will allow the mobile company to have better network coverage to about 80 per cent.

Spectrum relates to the radio frequencies allocated to the mobile industry and other sectors for communication over the airwaves.



Both mobile companies applied for the new spectrum in the 800MHz band last year and even though SCCOM granted it to both of them, Swazi Mobile has been given first preference in that it has been awarded an immediate right to switch it on while for Swazi MTN it will only be effective at the end of September this year.



The assignment of the new spectrum to Swazi Mobile will help the company immensely as the number of sites to expand and improve its LTE network coverage will be increased.

This is because the frequency allows faster speed, especially on data, and its connectivity covers a wide area.



According to a government gazette, general notice No.1/2018, the commission received an application on March 27, 2017 from Swazi Mobile for the new spectrum assignment and also received same from Swazi MTN on May 3, 2017.

In the gazette, SCCOM justified in detail why Swazi Mobile was allowed an immediate assignment.

Firstly, the commission, through Chief Executive Officer Mvilawemphi Dlamini, noted that it considered the applications on a first come first served basis, hence the decision to assign the immediately available 5MHz first to Swazi Mobile.



It is not the commissions view that the current demand for spectrum in this band exceeds supply, hence the option to adopt the first come first serve basis, said the commission.

It noted that Swazi Mobile currently had about 50 per cent nationwide coverage including 2G, 3G and 4G compared to Swazi MTNs above 97 per cent.

The commission considered that the immediate availability of channel 3 to Swazi Mobile, instead of Swazi MTN, will help increase the network coverage of Swazi Mobile to about 80 per cent using the same number of sites, based on the propagation characteristics of the band, reads part of the gazette.



It was mentioned that the commission was of the view that network coverage and technology could not be used to define an effective competitive environment which made it to consider that Swazi Mobile was in a more desirous situation for the immediate assignment for effective provisioning of their services.MAHLANYA  It is time for the police to walk the talk. This sums up what two civilians who found and fixed a phone believed to belong to businessman Almor Oliveiras said yesterday during an interview.



The civilians, whose names have been deliberately withheld to protect their identities, were left puzzled after they were not compensated for finding a piece of evidence which was said to be crucial in the Oliveira case. The cellphone was found on Friday afternoon around Bethany by grass cutters.



The civilians said they were expecting some kind of reward from the police for giving them the crucial information. They said they were only given E70 to buy food after working with the police the whole day searching and showing them where the mobile phone was found. They stated that they went into thick and tall grass as well as into dongas trying to assist police while they, at times stopped and watched them do the searching.



They shared that what worried them was that the police were seemingly taking all the credit for their efforts. They stressed that they did not give them any indication that they would be rewarded for their efforts.

After Oliveiras kidnapping, the police announced a reward of E1 million for anyone who would have information that would lead to the businessman being found. In a recent press conference, the National Commissioner of Police, Isaac Magagula, reassured the nation that the figure still stood.



We are not saying we want the whole million, but we are asking for some kind of reward for helping the police with the information as we could have easily disposed the phone, they said.

They stated that had they known better, they would have sought audience with Magagula with the aim of presenting the mobile phone to him. They were worried that some officers might soon get promotions through their efforts and they will continue to be the same people they were before they found the mobile device. They had the hope that the Magagula might have done things differently than his subordinates who did not even inform them about what would happen next.



They stressed that they were left wondering what would happen now as they might even be in danger. They held the view that the people involved in Oliveiras kidnapping probably worked with a larger group who might attempt to go after them for having given police the information.



They also stated that they had families and were self-employed, adding that they had to abandon all that on Saturday when they set out to help the police with their search at the place where the cellphone was found.

They had a question for Magagula.



MBABANE  The manner in which prominent businessman Victor Gamedze was killed seems to be the reason for the tight security and change of remand venues at the eleventh hour for the suspect allegedly linked to the murder.



Gamedze was shot dead at the Galp Filling Station in Ezulwini after watching his team, Mbabane Swallows, which recorded a victory over Manzini Wanderers in the Ingwenyama Cup knockout tournament at the Somhlolo National Stadium.



The intention behind the killing has not yet been established, however, another businessman, Sipho Shongwe, was arrested in connection with the murder of Gamedze.

Shongwe is not the only suspect in the matter since Mbabane socialite Sicelo Dzodzo Zikalala/ Luthango and Mbuso Ncaza Nkosi of South Africa, are wanted in connection with the assassination of the businessman, together with an unidentified suspect.



In a study of cases involving suspects who were linked to murder in the country, it appeared that the case of Shongwe was uniquely treated in terms of security, presumably due to its sensitivity.

In May 2001, David Simelane was arrested for the murder of about 45 women whose corpses were found in forests in Malkerns and Macetjeni. According to many, Simelane was the worst killer in the country if not in the entire African continent.



However, when he made his first appearance at the Manzini Magistrates Court, Simelane was brought to court in a kombi with investigating officers.

In the case of Shongwe, the accused was never taken to any of the countrys magistrates court but his first remand was held at the Mbabane Police Station for security reasons. Shongwe made his first appearance before a judicial officer and was remanded in custody on the day Gamedze, who owned 10 businesses in the country was laid to rest at his parental homestead at KaLanga in Siteki.



In the second remand of Simelane at the Manzini Magistrates Court on May 8, 2001, the court was fully packed as the public, mostly women, wanted to see him whereas Shongwes second remand, which was scheduled for the Sigodvweni Circuit Court, was held at the Matsapha Maximum Prison.



This was after the Crown had received information that some people, including Mbabane Swallow fans, were planning to attend the remand hearing. Noted is that the police officers had to hide Simelane from the members of the public who began to bay for his blood each time he appeared in court for remand hearings.With trade between the US and the European Union topping $1 trillion a year, the chances are that, if you are in business, you are in business with Europe. And, in the process of doing that business, its likely that you need to collect and store customer data. If that is the case, not only do you need to be aware of GDPR, you need to be taking actions to ensure you are compliant.

GDPR stands for the General Data Protection Regulation, which is due to come into force in May 2018. In the past, Europe has always been a bit more regulated about customer data privacy than the US, but now the EU law is going to impact US companies because it extends its reach. The extra-territorial coverage means that a US company will have to comply with GDPR requirements in the same way as an EU company, from the moment it touches personal data with origins in Europe.

What if you dont bother? Well, the proposed penalties for failing to follow the new regulations stand at a minimum of 20 million, or between 2% or 4% of annual turnover. And, the responsibility for the implementation of GDPR, reporting serious data breaches and bolstering an organisations cyber security, may ultimately fall on the shoulders of a companys directors and officers, who can be found personally liable. So thats a bit of a wake-up call then!

How can you be ready for May 2018, when the GDPR comes into force? First of all, you need to know the key elements of the regulation that might impact you in the US. To start with, the regulation states that all data collected by companies or organisations requires full, unambiguous consent in order to ensure the rights of all EU citizens. If using consent as the mechanism for transfer of data to the US, privacy policies and procedures need to take into account a range of new EU citizens rights that apply to data transferred to the US. These rights include the right to data portability, the right to object to profiling, and rights to rectify or delete collected personal data. In addition, parental consent is mandatory before accessing EU childrens personal data. EU citizens have the right to have personal data erased, and companies that experience data breaches have a duty to notify customers promptly (heads up, Uber  telling people a year later is not enough).

Not only this, but US companies have to ensure that data transferred across borders is managed safely and securely. EU-US data transfers are still considered an international data transfer, and as such they are governed by specific conditions and requirements. US companies can only use the data that has been transferred if they meet the test of adequate protection (by subscribing to the EU/US Privacy Shield) or have consent, use standard contractual clauses, binding corporate rules, or EU-approved industry codes of conduct.

Perhaps the best way to address this is for US Companies to conduct a data audit that determines what data flows are coming from Europe and to make sure that these data sets are collected and processed in accordance with the regulation. In some cases it will be necessary to appoint a designated data protection officer  for example if you are a public authority, if you carry out large scale systematic monitoring of individuals (such as online behaviour tracking) or if you carry out large scale processing of certain categories of data. But even if these specifics dont apply, it would be wise to make sure you have an individual who can understand and implement the regulation, provide guidance on compliance as well as be the contact point to resolve compliance issues.

The new regulations are an evolution of the existing framework, whilst it reduces bureaucratic obligations to the Data Protection Authorities, it reinforces the internal accountability of companies to anticipate and mitigate privacy risks when collecting and processing personal data. If you want to keep trading with Europe, you need to get ready for GDPR.[February 12, 2018] Banks Partner to Award $232K in Grants to Benefit Mississippi Women and Children

A 25-unit facility for women and children in Jackson, Mississippi, will open, thanks to a $212,500 Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas) and BancorpSouth Bank. The Corporation for Global Community Development (CGCD) used the grant to fund the rehabilitation of a 25-unit transitional facility for homeless and at-risk women and their children. Project representatives will attend a ribbon cutting and check presentation at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 13, at 4655 Terry Road in Jackson. The media is invited to attend. In addition, FHLB Dallas partnered with BancorpSouth Bank to award $16,000 in Partnership Grant Program ( PGP (News - Alert) ) funds to the nonprofit, and Trustmark National Bank to award $4,000 for a total award of $20,000. The organization used the funds for organizational capacity building. FHLB Dallas annually returns 10 percent of its profits in the form of AHP grants to the communities served by its member institutions, like BancorpSouth Bank. AHP grants fund a variety of projects, including home rehabilitation and modifications for low-income, elderly and special-needs residents; down payment and closing cost assistance for qualified first-time homebuyers; and the construction of low-income, multifamily rental communities and single-family homes. For more information about the AHP, visit fhlb.com/ahp. The structure of the PGP allows FHLB Dallas member institutions like BancorpSouth Bank and Trustmark National Bank to make a contribution of $500 to $4,000 to a community-based organization (CBO), which FHLB Dallas will match at a 3:1 ratio. For more information about the PGP, visit fhlb.com/pgp.







WHAT: Ribbon Cutting and Check Presentation WHEN: 10:00 a.m., February 13, 2018 WHO: Evelyn Edwards, Vice President, Community Development Grant Specialist and Mid Mississippi Community Reinvestment Specialist, BancorpSouth Bank Steffani Jenkins, First Vice President and Director of Community Development, Trustmark National Bank Pastor Jennifer Biard, Founder, Corporation for Global Community Development Greg Hettrick, First Vice President, Director of Community Investment, FHLB Dallas Eric Haar, Vice President, Director of Government and Industry Relations, FHLB Dallas WHERE: Jackson Revival Center 4655 Terry Road Jackson, Mississippi 39212

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005011/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Seraphim Partners with Solar Center for Module Distribution in Mexico

MEXICO CITY, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Seraphim Energy Group ("Seraphim") today announced that it signed a long-term solar module supply agreement with Solar Center of Guadalajara, Jalisco ("Solar Center") for photovoltaic module distribution in Mexico. Seraphim will begin immediate delivery of high-efficiency smart modules and dual-glass modules to Solar Center. Seraphim and Solar Center will support each other to mutually increase market share in Mexico. This agreement marks Seraphim's first big step in Mexico and into the Latin American market as a whole. "We are proud to have this opportunity to cooperate with Seraphim. Seraphim's rich experience in module production, diversified products, and their strong R&D capabilities ensure that their modules will work reliably under our harsh conditions. Our partnership wih Seraphim will help us win the market share in Mexico much more quickly," said Solar Center's CEO, Mario Munoz Castellanos.



Mr. Jun Zhuge, CEO of Seraphim, also commented: "We are very pleased with our new partnership in Mexico with Solar Center. Our cooperation isn't limited to module sales but also co-branding in the local market. We are quite committed to this market and look forward to the bright future for solar energy there." About Seraphim Energy Group

Seraphim Energy Group is the U.S. entity and authorized representative for Jiangsu Seraphim Solar System Co., Ltd., a vertically-integrated, 3GW annual module capacity, classified as Tier-1 by BNEF. Seraphim is an innovation-driven enterprise focused on the development of high-performance modules. With a strong R&D team, Seraphim produces PV module products of both quality and value. Currently, there are over 4GW of Seraphim modules installed in over 30 different countries. Seraphim's global strategy is to maintain leadership in a challenging market, and to contribute to the green earth and harmonious coexistence of all. About Solar Center Based in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Solar Center is the most complete solar distribution center in Mexico, distributing a wide variety of photovoltaic and thermal systems. Twenty-five years of experience supports everything they do. For more information, please visit www.seraphim-energy.com SOURCE Seraphim Solar

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] STEM Scouts, New National Pilot Program Developed by Boy Scouts of America, Launches in Schools Across Northern New Jersey

The Boy Scouts of America (BSA), one of the largest youth development organizations in the United States, has launched STEM Scouts, a highly-innovative afterschool program, into Northern New Jersey by introducing it into three inner-city schools - Spencer Miller Community in Newark, Thomas Edison in Union City and Dr. Charles Defuccio in Jersey City - attracting more than 90 boys and girls in the first phase. The extensive program exposes young participants to the challenging and fascinating world of STEM through hands-on experiments, field trips, regular interaction with STEM professionals and publishing opportunities in peer-reviewed journals. Grouped by elementary, middle and high school and comprised of 6-to-8 learning modules, STEM Scouts is a great way to generate interest in STEM education and give kids a potential advantage in a fiercely-competitive job market where the need for qualified STEM professionals remains unfulfilled. Significantly, the program allows students to grow and build character, a key element of the Scouting experience. Parents also have an opportunity to be trained and participate in labs, while spending quality time with their children. The voluntary program is delivered after school and largely taught by school teachers using a professionally developed curriculum. Schools selected by the BSA are all in inner-city Newark, Union City and Jersey City where STEM programs have among the greatest potential to make a difference for young people. Evidence suggests that African Americans, Latinos, as well as women and low-income individuals are underrepresented in STEM-related occupations. "We are proud to be part of the national pilot and the momentum already achieved in our local schools," says Rebecca Fields, Scout Executive/CEO, Northern New Jersey Council, BSA. "STEM Scouts is more than a one-day training session touching upn the basics of STEM. It is a dynamic and well-rounded curriculum carefully developed by PhD-level STEM educators, and it increases in complexity as young boys and girls advance in their studies. We are off to a great start and looking forward to expanding across the communities of northern New Jersey, while changing lives one child at a time."



"The program is fully funded through the Boy Scouts of America and represents a true partnership with the local schools where the afterschool programs are based," adds Bruce Gallager who serves as an advisor to the STEM program and is a member of the Northern New Jersey Council's Executive Board. "We are actively recruiting for sponsoring organizations and volunteers who would like to be part of something meaningful and help us successfully implement the program. We are thrilled to join efforts with Pfizer, one of the world's premiere biopharmaceutical companies and a leading STEM employer in the country. Pfizer's inaugural sponsorship is instrumental in funding weekly labs, field trips, summer camp opportunities and guiding young students throughout the whole educational process." "STEM Scouts is a unique and inspirational program offered at an influential time in the lives of young people and critical for developing the skills needed in an innovation based economy," adds David Verbraska, Vice President, Pfizer and President, Northern New Jersey Council, BSA. "STEM Scouts is providing the rare combination of teaching new economy skills to young people in underserved areas while instilling powerful personal and civic leadership values that will pay off over a lifetime. Pfizer is proud and excited to sponsor STEM Scouts which is setting young people up for success in life."

For more information about the STEM Scouts, please visit www.stemscouts.org About the Northern New Jersey Council The Northern New Jersey Council serves over 16,000 youth annually in Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Passaic counties. With the leadership of over 6,900 volunteers and nearly 400 community partners, Scouting programs make a positive long lasting impact with families and in the community. In 2017, local Scouting youth contributed 85,881 community service hours to make northern New Jersey a better place! About the Boy Scouts of America The Boy Scouts of America provides the nation's foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, which helps young people be "Prepared. For Life." The Scouting organization is composed of nearly 2.4 million youth members between the ages of 7 and 21 and approximately 960,000 volunteers in local councils throughout the United States and its territories. For more information on the Boy Scouts of America, please visit www.scouting.org. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005075/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Worldwide SMB IT Spending to Pass $600 Billion in 2018, Driven by Mid-Market Demand for Software and Services, According to IDC

A new update to the Worldwide Semiannual Small and Medium Business Spending Guide from International Data Corporation (IDC) forecasts total IT spending by small and medium-size businesses (SMBs) to be nearly $602 billion in 2018, an increase of 4.9% over 2017. With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% for the 2016-2021 forecast period, spending by businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees on IT hardware, software, and services, including business services, is expected to reach $684 billion on in 2021. Mid-market firms will account for the largest share of total SMB IT spending even though they are farther along in technology deployment than small businesses. Over two thirds of global SMB IT spending will be driven by firms with 100-999 employees through 2021. Within the mid-market segment, medium-sized businesses (100-499 employees) will spend $229 billion this year, while large businesses (500-999 employees) will spend $182 billion. Both groups will experience similar growth over the forecast period, with CAGRs of 4.8% and 4.6%, respectively. Small businesses (10-99 employees) will see spending growth of 4.7% over the five-year forecast period. Hardware, software, and IT services will each account for around 30% of total SMB spending in 2018 with business services delivering the remainder. While hardware is currently the largest category of spending, IDC (News - Alert) expects it to be overtaken by software in 2019 and IT services in 2021. Software will experience the fastest spending growth over the 2016-2021 forecast with a CAGR of 7.5%, followed by business services with a CAGR of 6.6%. "SMBs around the world are increasingly interested in investing in resources to improve employee productivity and improve their competitive positions," said Ray Boggs, vice president, SMB Research at IDC. "While SMBs, especially smaller ones, have immediate tactical needs to sharpen performance, they are also looking to coordinate resources in a meaningful way. For many this will be an important step in their Digital Transformation (DX)."



Devices will be the largest category of technology spending in 2018 with SMBs allocating $115 billion to personal computing devices, peripherals, and mobile phones. Applications will be the second largest spending category at $99 billion, led by investments in enterprise resource management (ERM), content applications, and customer relationship management (CRM). Content applications and CRM will also see some of the fastest spending growth over the five-year forecast with CAGRs of 10.6% and 10.0%, respectively. Collaborative applications will see the fastest growth at 12.2% CAGR. The next two largest technology categories in 2018 - technology outsourcing and project oriented outsourcing - will support SMB efforts to implement these new investments in pursuit of their DX strategies. On a geographic basis, the United States will be the largest market with SMB IT spending expected to total $186 billion in 2018. China will be the second largest country with $56 billion in SMB IT spending forecast for this year, followed by Germany ($37 billion), the UK ($36 billion), and Japan ($35 billion). The countries that will see the fastest IT spending growth by SMBs will be Peru (11.7% CAGR), Chile (11.6% CAGR), and Indonesia (11.2%). China and India will also be among the fastest growing countries, each with a five-year CAGR of 7.0%.

IDC's Worldwide Semiannual Small and Medium Business Spending Guide provides detail on small and midsize business IT spending across 40 technology categories in nine geographic regions and 53 countries. Spending details are also provided for four SMB size categories: 1-9 employees, 10-99 employees (total small business), 100-499 employees, and 500-999 employees (total midsize businesses). Unlike any other research in the industry, the comprehensive spending guide was designed to help IT decision makers to clearly understand the industry-specific scope and direction of SMB spending today and over the next five years. About IDC Spending Guides

IDC's Spending Guides provide detail on key technology markets from a regional, vertical industry, use case, buyer, and technology perspective. The spending guides are delivered via pivot table format or custom query tool, allowing the user to easily extract meaningful information about each market by viewing data trends and relationships. About IDC

International Data Corporation (IDC) is the premier global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets. With more than 1,100 analysts worldwide, IDC offers global, regional, and local expertise on technology and industry opportunities and trends in over 110 countries. IDC's analysis and insight helps IT professionals, business executives, and the investment community to make fact-based technology decisions and to achieve their key business objectives. Founded in 1964, IDC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of International Data Group (IDG), the world's leading media, data and marketing services company that activates and engages the most influential technology buyers. To learn more about IDC, please visit www.idc.com. Follow IDC on Twitter (News - Alert) at @IDC and LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005087/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 11, 2018] Speeding Up Adoption of 5G! Wireless Transmission Speeds of 120 Gbps Achieved

TOKYO, Feb. 11, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to further increase the capacity of wireless equipment, Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) and Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. have developed a CMOS wireless transceiver chip that can process signals at high speeds across a broad range of frequencies, from 70 to 105 gigahertz (GHz), using their own bandwidth-increasing technology. With these developments, they succeeded in achieving wireless transmission speeds of 120 gigabits per second (Gbps), the fastest in the world. Background There has been an increase in research and development activities with the aim of practical application of 5th generation mobile networks (5G) for the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic games in 2020. Behind this development is the sharp increase in data traffic such as of high-definition video services as devices such as smartphones and tablets become more widely used. Additionally, a variety of performance requirements have come to be expected of wireless communication by new technologies such as IoT and automated driving. Conventionally, base stations have been connected by optical fiber. One issue with this approach, however, is that it has been difficult to expand service in areas where it is difficult to install a network of optical fiber cables, such as in densely built urban areas or between areas surrounded by rivers or mountains. Demand for connecting base stations wirelessly instead of with optical fiber is increasing for prompt and flexible installation of wireless networks at large-scale stadiums and event venues with transient crowds numbering in the tens of thousands or during disaster recovery. High-capacity wireless transmissions need to use a broad range of frequencies. To facilitate this, use of the millimeter-waveband (30 to 300 GHz) is a suitable option, as few competing wireless applications use it. But because the millimeter-waveband uses such high frequencies, designing CMOS integrated circuits for that purpose has been a challenge, as the circuits need to be designed to operate near their limits. It has also been difficult to develop transceiver circuits that modulate and demodulate broadband signals into and out of the millimeter-waveband at high quality and interface circuits that connect the circuit board to the antenna, both at low loss. This research group led by Kenichi Okada of Tokyo Tech had achieved wireless transmission at 56 Gbps in 2016, however, an issue was that the band could not be widened any more due to the higher harmonic signal contained in the carrier wave.



Overview of Research Achievement The newly developed CMOS wireless transceiver chip (Figure 1) uses technology which broadens the band of transceiver circuits by splitting data signals in two, converting them to different frequency ranges, and then recombining them. Each signal is modulated into a band 17.5-GHz wide and demodulated, with the low-band signal occupying the 70.0-87.5 GHz range and the high-band signal occupying the 87.5-105.0 GHz range. This technology enables high-quality signal transmission over an ultra-wideband signal 35 GHz wide. The newly developed CMOS wireless transceiver chip has carrier generation circuits built in for the 70-GHz and 105-GHz carrier signals required to use this technology. Conventionally, the signal quality was degraded by higher harmonics contained by the carrier generation circuit, however, the newly developed harmonic suppression technology resolved this problem. The signal quality required for multi-level modulation of 16-QAM has been achieved by using a lower-order multiplication technique and combining many stages of amplifier circuits and the built-in higher-harmonic-suppressing filter. Tokyo Tech developed technologies for improving transceiver performance and broadening the band, while Fujitsu Laboratories was responsible for module technology.

Future Development This outcome makes it possible to increase the capacity of wireless equipment that can be installed outdoors. High-capacity wireless base station networks will become easy to deploy, even in places where new fiber-optic networks are difficult to install, such as urban areas and places surrounded by mountains or rivers, or for temporary base stations such as for the Olympics. This technology will thereby contribute to providing a pleasant communication environment. Reference Korkut K. Tokgoz1, Shotaro Maki1, Jian Pang1, Noriaki Nagashima1, Ibrahim Abdo1, Seitaro Kawai1, Takuya Fujimura1, Yoichi Kawano2, Toshihide Suzuki2, Taisuke Iwai2, Kenichi Okada1,*, Akira Matsuzawa1, A 120Gb/s 16QAM CMOS Millimeter-Wave Wireless Transceiver, Session 9, WIRELESS TRANSCEIVERS AND TECHNIQUES, 2018 IEEE International Solid-State Circuits Conference (ISSCC) Affiliations: 1Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan;

2Fujitsu Laboratories, Atsugi, Japan

*Corresponding authors email: okada@ee.e.titech.ac.jp About Tokyo Institute of Technology Tokyo Institute of Technology stands at the forefront of research and higher education as the leading university for science and technology in Japan. Tokyo Tech researchers excel in a variety of fields, such as material science, biology, computer science and physics. Founded in 1881, Tokyo Tech has grown to host 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students who become principled leaders of their fields and some of the most sought-after scientists and engineers at top companies. Embodying the Japanese philosophy of "monotsukuri," meaning technical ingenuity and innovation, the Tokyo Tech community strives to make significant contributions to society through high-impact research. www.titech.ac.jp/english/ View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/speeding-up-adoption-of-5g-wireless-transmission-speeds-of-120-gbps-achieved-300595629.html SOURCE Tokyo Institute of Technology

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 11, 2018] UAE Launches Humanitarian Aid Databank at World Government Summit

The UAE today launched a humanitarian logistics databank at the World Government Summit (WGS) in Dubai. Announced by HRH Princess Haya bint Al Hussein, Chairperson of the International Humanitarian City, the databank will improve the speed and efficiency of humanitarian aid and emergency response via a centralized platform of real-time information on emergencies, supplies and logistics. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180211005058/en/ HRH Princess Haya bint Al Hussein, Chairerson of the International Humanitarian City (Photo: AETOSWire)



Expected to enhance collaboration between aid agencies in the region, the databank is designed to best serve those in need. The UAE has been at the forefront of relief efforts for Rohingya refugees and has been lauded by representatives of global agencies, including the World Food Programme's Executive Director David Beasley, who spoke at the launch, for its philanthropic responses to the most urgent humanitarian crises globally.

Sessions on climate change, biotechnology and space settlement dominated day one of the WGS that also featured Hollywood actors Robert De Niro and Forest Whitaker. De Niro joined ministers of the UAE and island nations Antigua and Barbuda and the Republic of Marshall Islands to discuss the devastating effects of extreme weather. The double Oscar winner has pledged to help rebuild Barbuda after it was left uninhabitable for the first time in 300 years following Hurricane Irma. Fellow Academy-award winner Whitaker, representing UNESCO Special Envoy for Peace and Reconciliation, emphasized empowering women and children, who are the most vulnerable to climate change impact, as critical change agents. About the World Government Summit The World Government Summit is the primary global forum dedicated to shaping the future of governments worldwide. Each year, the summit sets the agenda for the next generation of governments with a focus on harnessing innovation and technology to solve universal challenges facing humanity. The WGS is a knowledge exchange platform that converges governments, futurism, technology and innovation. It functions as a thought leadership and networking hub for policymakers, experts and pioneers in human development. As a gateway to the future, the summit analyzes trends, issues and opportunities that humanity is likely to face in the coming decades, while showcasing innovations, best practices and smart solutions that inspire creative ideas on how best to address them. * Source (News - Alert) : AETOSWire View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180211005058/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 11, 2018] Indian Premier Joins World Leaders to Champion Technology and Reform at World Government Summit 2018

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi championed technology as a means of development and warned of its potential to be used as a means of destruction in his address at the sixth World Government Summit (WGS 2018) in Dubai. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180211005063/en/ Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the sixth edition of World Government Summit in Dubai (Photo: AETOSWire) "Technlogy has empowered the common man via minimum government, maximum governance. In e-governance, the 'e' represents effective, efficient, easy, empowering and equity. Technology has transformed the UAE from a desert into a modern wonder, but it also has a darker side of radicalization of cyberspace," he said. Modi led a delegation from India, the guest country at this year's WGS.



Earlier today, French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe outlined his country's roadmap for transformation that includes a progressive climate change policy, corporate tax reduction and a labor law reform. "It is our priority to fix our country and prepare for the future," he said. Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, was bullish on the outlook for economic growth despite recent market volatility. She urged governments to implement overdue reforms and offer hope to young people by building stronger economies. "Governments, especially in this region, where 60 percent of the population are under 25 years old, need to focus on policies that will energize the economy and encourage job creation," she said.

About the World Government Summit The World Government Summit is the primary global forum dedicated to shaping the future of governments worldwide. Each year, the summit sets the agenda for the next generation of governments with a focus on harnessing innovation and technology to solve universal challenges facing humanity. The WGS is a knowledge exchange platform that converges governments, futurism, technology and innovation. It functions as a thought leadership and networking hub for policymakers, experts and pioneers in human development. As a gateway to the future, the summit analyzes trends, issues and opportunities that humanity is likely to face in the coming decades, while showcasing innovations, best practices and smart solutions that inspire creative ideas on how best to address them. * Source (News - Alert) : AETOSWire View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180211005063/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 11, 2018] AxiomSL Leads Industry Collaboration To Define Open Taxonomy for MAS 610/1003 Regulatory Reporting

- AxiomSL has convened an industry-wide initiative to define an open data structure (a "Taxonomy") which will streamline financial institutions' (FIs) compliance efforts for the revised MAS 610/1003[1] reporting mandate. - AxiomSL in partnership with nine banks, PwC and BR-AG, will define the Taxonomy during the first quarter of 2018, and following the issuance of the final notice by the MAS, the Taxonomy will be updated and then made available to all MAS 610 reporting FI's. - The MAS 610 open taxonomy will allow Financial Institutions to better structure and automate regulatory reporting regardless of the reporting technology in use. AxiomSL will leverage the Taxonomy as part of its on-premise and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. SINGAPORE, HONG KONG and SYDNEY, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- AxiomSL, the global leader in regulatory reporting, data and risk management solutions, has convened a diverse industry group to define an open data taxonomy to simplify and streamline compliance reporting for the revised Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) 610 reporting mandate. AxiomSL is partnering with two D-SIBs (Domestic Systemically Important Authorized Institutions) and seven international banks including four G-SIBs (Global Systemically Important Banks), PwC Singapore and BR-AG in this unprecedented industry-led initiative. By mid this year, the Taxonomy for the revised MAS 610 will be complete and made available to all Financial Institutions (FIs) in Singapore. AxiomSL has seen overwhelming interest in this initiative from the FIs in Singapore to date. Aligned with the overarching themes taking centerstage in 2017's Singapore FinTech Festival, this industry-led initiative aims to take an innovative and collaborative approach to define regulatory data relationships. Through cross-collaboration by industry experts, this initiative aims to reduce reporting complexities and the compliance burden facing FIs at present. In addition to standardizing interpretations of the MAS requirements, the Taxonomy will allow for increased automation of testing and change management as well as drive higher quality of data and data governance. The MAS 610 reporting guidelines were last updated ten years ago and the new MAS 610 will see a significant increase in the granularity and frequency of reporting[2]. The taxonomy approach will reframe the 340,000 individual data points required in the revised MAS 610 report (substantial increase from the 4,000+ data points required today) into a series of data relationships that can be applied and reused consistently across all the proposed submissions. PwC will provide advisory services and act as the project management office for this initiative. BR-AG, a data consulting firm that has a proven track record with central banks and regulatory authorities globally, will draft the data model and XBRL taxonomy. Peter Tierney, CEO Asia-Pacific, AxiomSL said, "We have watched the evolution of structured data exchange in other regulatory contexts and jurisdictions around the world. The benefits in terms of automation and data quality are clear, both for the FIs and the regulators. The upcoming MAS 610 revision provides a unique opportunity to leverage these developments and with the combination of our FI partners, PwC and BR-AG, we are confident we can combine global best practice with specific Singapore requirements. We feel strongly that the resulting Taxonomy be open and available to all reporting FI's to encourage adoption and further innovation." Chris Matten, Partner at PwC said "We are pleased to partner with AxiomSL, BR-AG and the FIs to take this initiative forward in Singapore. As an advisor, we will be supporting this initiative through review and coordination among external parties. It is promising to see such an initiative being carried out which brings together major players within the industry, all working towards a common goal."



Michal Piechocki, CEO, BR-AG said "Having seen the incalculable benefits of taxonomy-based reporting, we are glad to be a part of the initiative taken by AxiomSL and its partners in Singapore. Data modelling and taxonomy-based approach, specifically using XBRL, has proven effective especially in the context of changing financial environments and new reporting mandates. We have seen its merits firsthand in similar projects developed by BR-AG with the data modelling methodology (Data Point Model) at, for example the Bank of England, the European Central Bank, European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) or the European Banking Authority (EBA). The MAS 610 project embodies all the value-adding aspects represented by the combined data modelling and open taxonomy building approach, and it has potential replication opportunities across jurisdictions around the world. This approach presents the possibility to engineer automation into regulation in the near future." In addition to delivering MAS 610 solutions through on-premise deployment, AxiomSL will also offer its' new MAS 610 solution through a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) delivery option. SaaS is a cloud-based approach that will help banks alleviate the burden of procuring and operating the complex, hardware and software infrastructure required for reporting. By managing and maintaining the infrastructure required for compliance, AxiomSL's SaaS solution will enable banks to benefit from enhanced economies of scale, information consistency and operational transparency.

[1] MAS Notice 610 covers financial and statistical reporting for banks in Singapore, except for merchant banks, which are covered by MAS Notice 1003. As the two Notices as broadly the same, they are referred to collectively as MAS 610 herein



[2] More details are available on the MAS website: https://goo.gl/UKrHQR Press contacts: Prisita Menon / Sharan Nanwani

Cognito

AxiomSL.Asia@cognitomedia.com

+65-6221-7310 Josephine Chia

AxiomSL

jchia@axiomsl.com

+65-3159-1055 (ext:648) About AxiomSL AxiomSL, the global leader in regulatory reporting, data and risk management solutions was established more than 25 years ago, with offices worldwide. AxiomSL's unique enterprise data management (EDM) platform empowers firms to address data governance and risk aggregation while delivering the analytics, workflow automation, validation, audit functionality and reporting required by multiple stakeholders across global and local regulations. The AxiomSL's collaborative platform, known for its robustness, adaptability and transparency, imposes no constraints on where the data is located and enables financial firms to avoid duplication and double storage. It seamlessly integrates clients' source data from disparate systems and enriches and validates the data, and runs it through risk and regulatory calculations to produce both internal and external reports. The platform supports disclosures in multiple formats, including XBRL. The unparalleled transparency offered by the high-performance platform gives users the ability to drill down on their data to any level of granularity. AxiomSL's platform supports compliance with a wide range of global and local regulations, including Basel III capital and liquidity requirements (LCR & NSFR), MAS 610, APRA, Dodd-Frank Act, IFRS 9/CECL, Global Shareholding Disclosures, FATCA/CRS, EMIR, COREP/FINREP, FDSF, BCBS 239, Solvency II, AIFMD, central bank disclosures, and both market and credit risk management requirements. The enterprise-wide approach offered by AxiomSL enables clients to leverage their existing data and risk management infrastructure, and reduces implementation costs, time to market and complexity. AxiomSL was awarded "Reporting Product of the Year" at the Asia Capital Markets Awards 2017 as well as "Best Implementation at a Sell-side Firm" for the second year running for the 2017 Sell-side Technology Awards and recently received the RegTech Awards for "Most Innovative Use of a Vendor Solution to Address a Dodd-Frank Requirement. AxiomSL was highlighted as a 'Category Leader' by Chartis Research in its 2017 Sell-side Risk Management Technology report. It was also awarded by The Asian Banker for "Best Compliance Risk Technology Implementation of the Year" in 2016. The company's work has also been recognized through a number of other accolades, including Waters Rankings' Best Reporting System Provider, Best Reporting Initiative in the American Financial Technology Awards and in the Customer Satisfaction section of the Chartis RiskTech100 rankings. www.axiomsl.com About PwC At PwC, our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We're a network of firms in 158 countries with more than 236,000 people who are committed to delivering quality in assurance, advisory and tax services. Find out more and tell us what matters to you by visiting us at www.pwc.com. PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see www.pwc.com/structure for further details. About Business Reporting-Advisory Group The mission of Business Reporting - Advisory Group (BR-AG) is to build trusted, efficient and stable regulatory data ecosystems by collaborating with regulatory and supervisory authorities and financial institutions in the process of raising compliance levels and digitization of data services. BR-AG applies state of the art technology to proactively address some of the core issues in the financial data field, including lowering the reporting burden, increasing public trust towards business data and services and tackling data sharing constraints in financial environments. To that end, BR-AG works for and collaborates with financial institutions, regulatory and public sector's organizations, fintech companies as well as reporting entities on both national and cross-national levels. In over 12 years, BR-AG has delivered more than 60 projects globally, including projects for the European Union bodies as well as central banks, treasuries, securities commissions, regulators, trade registers and banks in Europe, Australia, Asia, Africa, North and South America. BR-AG offers data modelling services, including collaborative data modelling solutions, as well as consulting services, hands-on workshops and training sessions to provide support and guidance in the adoption and maintenance of technical standards and data management methods. BR-AG's core activity areas include: financial regulations (i.e. Solvency II, Basel Accord, MiFIR, MiFID II, SFTR, ESEF, AnaCredit, BCBS239), data model development (i.e. Data Point Model methodology, SDMX-IM and SMCube), market architectures (Trade Repositories, ARM's, OAM's), implementation and quality assurance of technical standards and identifiers (XBRL, ISO20022, SDMX, LEI, UPI, UTI), as well as application of cutting-edge IT technologies to make the recording, processing and analysing of data faster, safer and more transparent (i.e. Open API, DLT, Blockchain). Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20180209/2052489-1LOGO SOURCE AxiomSL

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 11, 2018] IAB Honors Digital Advertising Leaders with 2018 Sales & Service Excellence Awards

The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) awarded recipients of the 2018 Sales & Service Excellence Awards during the opening ceremony of the IAB Annual Leadership Meeting at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa in Palm Desert, CA (News - Alert) . The IAB Sales Excellence Awards recognize select individuals and IAB member companies that have demonstrated superior levels of client service, expertise, and innovation in digital advertising sales. The IAB Service Awards honor those individuals at IAB member companies who have exhibited notable leadership and guidance on specific digital advertising initiatives over the past year. 2018 IAB Sales Excellence Awards As in previous years, Advertising Perceptions and IAB leadership identified digital advertising skills and achievements, which should be measured in order to merit a Sales Excellence Award. Based on those identifiers, Advertising Perceptions developed and disseminated a two-part customer feedback survey to senior agency and marketing executives who pinpointed the sales organizations and individuals that have excelled in these areas over the past year. Over 520 leaders from the ad buying community answered the questionnaire, nominating and then voting on the best sales teams and individuals across four main categories-large organization, small-to-medium sales organization, leadership through mentoring, and sales person of the year in four key U.S. regions. Respondents represented companies that spent at least $1 million on interactive advertising during the last year. 2018 IAB Sales Excellence Awards Winners are: Overall Sales Excellence for a Large Sales Organization: Amazon

Amazon Overall Sales Excellence for a Small-to-Medium Sales Organization : The Trade Desk

: The Trade Desk Leadership through Mentoring: Meredith Kopit Levien, Executive Vice President & COO, The New York Times

Meredith Kopit Levien, Executive Vice President & COO, The New York Times Sales Person of the Year : East Coast: Jared Lefkowitz, Head of East Coast Ad Sales, Roku West Coast: Susan Edmonds, Director of Sales, Teads Central: Erin Harris, Multicultural, Pandora South: Jessica Chiu, Partner Manager, Facebook

: In conjunction with the announcement of this year's winners, IAB is releasing "The Sellers' Intelligence Study," a comprehensive research report, which shows that formal training and industry certification in digital media sales increases company revenue and employee retention. The study, conducted by PSB, also finds that the overwhelming majority of senior digital media executives credit professional educational programs for improving digital sellers' job performance. The report is available at iab.com/sellers-intelligence-study. "The 2018 Sales Excellence Awards honors those individuals and teams that have gone above and beyond their peers to deliver the highest quality of digital advertising service and execution," said Christa Babcock, Vice President, Learning and Certification, IAB. "The Interactive Advertising Bureau will continue its work with members, including these winning companies and individuals, to better understand what factors drive superior sales perfomance-so we can not only celebrate today's achievements, but help build pathways to improve sales acumen and strengthen the media and marketing industries in the years to come."



2018 IAB Service Excellence Awards The IAB Service Excellence Awards recognize individuals from IAB member companies for their outstanding contributions and thought leadership on IAB initiatives over the past year. Members of IAB committees, councils, and working groups select the winners based on nominations made by IAB staff.

"We are honored to recognize and celebrate those individuals and companies that have tirelessly helped guide and direct the important work of various IAB initiatives in a way that breathes new life and drives the agenda forward," said Anna Bager, Executive Vice President of Industry Initiatives, IAB. "They have undoubtedly left a mark on the industry with their thought leadership and innovative solutions for digital video, DOOH, mobile, advanced TV, and more-all of which will help continue to shape and advance the power of interactive." 2018 IAB Service Excellence Awards Winners are: Finola Austin, Senior Brand Strategist, Refinery29, for her leadership and providing strategic direction and helpful insights that led to the publication of the "Influencer Marketing for Publishers Guide."

for her leadership and providing strategic direction and helpful insights that led to the publication of the "Influencer Marketing for Publishers Guide." Harry Clark, Partner and Executive Vice President, Market Enginuity , for providing significant thought leadership that led to the development of the "IAB Podcast Playbook," the organization's first-ever comprehensive buyer's guide designed to help brand marketers navigate the podcast media landscape.

, for providing significant thought leadership that led to the development of the "IAB Podcast Playbook," the organization's first-ever comprehensive buyer's guide designed to help brand marketers navigate the podcast media landscape. Chris Gordon, Vice President, Business Development, XUMO , for his key efforts, insights, and editorial input-especially in the areas of OTT and cross-platform video advertising-during the publication of the "IAB Guide to Digital Video Advertising."

, for his key efforts, insights, and editorial input-especially in the areas of OTT and cross-platform video advertising-during the publication of the "IAB Guide to Digital Video Advertising." Stacy Graham, Senior Director of Audience (News - Alert) Development & Digital Marketing, BET Networks , for her guidance in setting the agenda and securing senior leaders to speak at the IAB's Cross-Cultural Marketing Day event and for her instrumental help in raising awareness of the importance of cross-cultural understanding in the marketplace.

, for her guidance in setting the agenda and securing senior leaders to speak at the IAB's Cross-Cultural Marketing Day event and for her instrumental help in raising awareness of the importance of cross-cultural understanding in the marketplace. Kurt Hawks, Senior Vice President, Cross-Device and Video, Conversant , for his passion in solving the cross-device identity challenge and for his execution of strategic ideas that led to the publication of the "Mobile Identity for Marketers Guide."

, for his passion in solving the cross-device identity challenge and for his execution of strategic ideas that led to the publication of the "Mobile Identity for Marketers Guide." Margit Kittridge, Vice President of Digital Products, Critical Mix , for her contributions toward a successful Digital-Out-of-Home Metrics Summit, and bringing together a blend of senior agency leaders, location-based marketing vendors, fellow trade association leaders, media owners, and researchers at the event.

, for her contributions toward a successful Digital-Out-of-Home Metrics Summit, and bringing together a blend of senior agency leaders, location-based marketing vendors, fellow trade association leaders, media owners, and researchers at the event. Rainbow Kirby-Stearns, Director, Marketing and Communications, Clear Channel (News - Alert) Outdoor, for spearheading the working group that gathered and designed the "Digital-Out-of-Home Case Studies Collection" intended to showcase the incredible opportunity in DOOH media, for marketers and the wider business community.

for spearheading the working group that gathered and designed the "Digital-Out-of-Home Case Studies Collection" intended to showcase the incredible opportunity in DOOH media, for marketers and the wider business community. Gefen (News - Alert) Lamdan, Senior Vice President of Product, Celtra , for serving as Supporting Member of the IAB Mobile Center of Excellence, and for preparing an insightful blog post that specifically addressed how the IAB New Ad Portfolio is a force for good in the creative domain of mobile advertising.

, for serving as Supporting Member of the IAB Mobile Center of Excellence, and for preparing an insightful blog post that specifically addressed how the IAB New Ad Portfolio is a force for good in the creative domain of mobile advertising. Hernan Lopez, Founder and CEO, Wondery, for his instrumental leadership in bringing together member companies to fund, support, and underwrite the first-ever IAB Podcast Advertising Revenue Study-a widely referenced benchmark resource for ad spending in the industry.

for his instrumental leadership in bringing together member companies to fund, support, and underwrite the first-ever IAB Podcast Advertising Revenue Study-a widely referenced benchmark resource for ad spending in the industry. Adam Lowy, Director, Advanced TV and Digital, DISH and Sling TV , for bringing to the forefront the need for an Advanced TV buyer's guide that led to the development of the Advanced TV Targeting Primer, a resource that offers practical tips and best practices for both the addressable TV and OTT/Connected TV landscape.

, for bringing to the forefront the need for an Advanced TV buyer's guide that led to the development of the Advanced TV Targeting Primer, a resource that offers practical tips and best practices for both the addressable TV and OTT/Connected TV landscape. Pooja Midha, Senior Vice President, Digital Ad Sales and Operations, ABC , for her leadership in a joint IAB-4A's working group that developed a key addendum to the long-form video T's and C's that serves as a starting point for buyers and sellers to address advertising issues specific to long-form video.

, for her leadership in a joint IAB-4A's working group that developed a key addendum to the long-form video T's and C's that serves as a starting point for buyers and sellers to address advertising issues specific to long-form video. Max Nelson, Director of Marketing, AdColony , for his guidance in developing the "Vertical Video Best Practices" report so that it would be relevant for the target buyer audience and for specifically providing insights into the challenges that brands and agencies face when developing assets for new creative formats.

, for his guidance in developing the "Vertical Video Best Practices" report so that it would be relevant for the target buyer audience and for specifically providing insights into the challenges that brands and agencies face when developing assets for new creative formats. Kjartan Slette, Co-Founder & COO, Unacast, for offering insightful case studies to the "IAB Location-based Marketing Playbook for Retailers" and for his passion to help elevate the industry through this initiative. 2018 IAB Tech Lab Service Excellence Awards Selected in similar fashion to the winners of the IAB Service Excellence Awards, service awards given by the IAB Tech Lab are determined through staff recommendations and member affirmation and presented to both companies and individuals. The 2018 IAB Tech Lab Service Excellence Awards winners are comScore (News - Alert), DoubleVerify, Google, Integral Ad Science, Moat, and Pandora for their collective work on the Open Measurement SDK working group. Representatives from these companies demonstrated exemplary industry leadership in coming together and collaborating to develop a shared standard software development kit for mobile in-app measurement, for viewability and beyond. In addition, the IAB Tech Lab gave a Service Excellence Award to Dr. Neal Richter, Chief Technology Officer, Rakuten Marketing, for his significant contributions in developing trustworthy supply chain specifications and OpenRTB 3.0, and for his instrumental thought leadership and participation on the working group that helped spur rapid adoption of ads.txt. "The success of the technical standards and software released by Tech Lab is largely due to our members," said Dennis Buchheim, Senior Vice President and General Manager, IAB Tech Lab. "We have collectively made great strides over the past year in reducing friction in the supply chain and addressing ad fraud, and I am thrilled to celebrate members that made such meaningful contributions to our work to move the industry forward." About IAB The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) empowers the media and marketing industries to thrive in the digital economy. Its membership is comprised of more than 650 leading media and technology companies that are responsible for selling, delivering, and optimizing digital advertising or marketing campaigns. The trade group fields critical research on interactive advertising, while also educating brands, agencies, and the wider business community on the importance of digital marketing. In affiliation with the IAB Tech Lab, it develops technical standards and best practices. IAB and the IAB Education Foundation are committed to professional development and elevating the knowledge, skills, expertise, and diversity of the workforce across the industry. Through the work of its public policy office in Washington, D.C., IAB advocates for its members and promotes the value of the interactive advertising industry to legislators and policymakers. Founded in 1996, the IAB is headquartered in New York City and has a San Francisco office. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180211005009/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] UAE Hosts World's First International Forum on Global Governance of AI at 2018 World Government Summit

Preeminent global artificial intelligence (AI) experts from over 20 countries gathered in the UAE to launch the inaugural Global Governance of AI Roundtable, a day-long forum organized under the auspices of the UAE Minister of State for AI. The AI Initiative of The Future Society at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government was invited to contribute to the organization and deliberations of this groundbreaking convening. Organized as part of The World Government Summit, the Global AI Governance Forum took place on Saturday, February 10, in recognition of rapidly evolving AI technology and its implications for government, business and society. In organizing the roundtable, the UAE and The AI Initiative sought to facilitate dynamic policy recommendations and create a roadmap for ultimate adoption by nations around the world. The roundtable included almost 100 of the world's foremost thinkers, leaders and practitioners of AI in one room - to contemplate and develop ways to help guide thinking about how to navigate the technological explosion. Nico Miailhe, President of The Future Society and co-founder of its AI Initiative, declared: "Roundtable participants represented a wide scope of stakeholders including renowned scientists, governments, multilateral organizations, regulators, prominent think-tanks, industry leaders, and investors. The deliberations mobilized pionering collective intelligence methodologies and cognitive tools to produce new knowledge and understanding. Debates also examined practical considerations regarding the deployment of AI in transportation, healthcare, energy, finance and the legal system."



Nicolas Economou, CEO of H5 and Chair of the Roundtable's Committee on AI in the Law, said: "As the CEO of a Silicon Valley-based company that has developed cognitive and AI systems for the legal realm for nearly 20 years, I have both contributed to and witnessed the quiet rise of AI in all aspects of our lives. This unique, forward-looking roundtable initiated a much-needed dialogue on the global norms and ethical principles that should govern artificial intelligence for the benefit of society." Cyrus Hodes, Director of The AI Initiative declared: "The Future Society applauds the visionary leadership of the United Arab Emirates and of the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, His Excellency Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, at the intersection of AI and international cooperation for betterment of whole humanity. This seminal event can serve as a model for the much needed international governance of technologies."

About The Future Society and the AI Initiative Based at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, The Future Society is an international think-and-do tank that focuses on the impact and governance of emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence. The Future Society's mission is to help build a future that preserves humanity while harnessing the upsides of technology. For more information, visit thefuturesociety.org. The AI Initiative of The Future Society brings together industry experts, researchers, students, alumni, and faculty from Harvard and beyond who seek to understand the consequences of the rise of artificial intelligence. Its mission is to help shape global AI policy framework. Learn more at ai-initiative.org. Follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) (@hksfuture), Facebook (News - Alert) (@thefuturesociety), and Linkedin (The Future Society) View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180211005116/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Roivant and Poxel Announce Strategic Agreement for Development and Commercialization of Imeglimin in the U.S., Europe, and Additional Countries Worldwide

Roivant Sciences, a global healthcare company focused on realizing the full value of promising biomedical research, and POXEL SA (Euronext: POXEL - FR0012432516), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of innovative treatments for metabolic disorders including type 2 diabetes, today announced the signing of a strategic development and license agreement for imeglimin, an investigational oral therapy which has been developed by Poxel for the potential treatment of type 2 diabetes, in the U.S., Europe, and all other countries not covered by Poxel's existing agreement in East and Southeast Asia.1 This partnership enables Roivant to add an innovative late-stage development program to its pipeline and Poxel gains a strategic development and licensing agreement for imeglimin beyond the company's partnership with Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180211005061/en/ Under the terms of the agreement, Poxel is entitled to receive an upfront payment of $35 million (approximately 28 million) and Roivant will invest $15 million (approximately 12 million) in Poxel through a subscription to 1,431,399 newly-issued ordinary shares at 8.5 per share. Poxel is entitled to receive potential future development and regulatory milestone payments and sales-based payments of up to $600 million (approximately 486 million) subject to the successful clinical development and commercialization of imeglimin. Furthermore, after launch Poxel will be entitled to double-digit royalties on net sales. Roivant will be responsible for development and commercialization costs and Poxel will contribute $25 million (approximately 20 million) to the development program. The parties will decide on a potential co-promotion prior to commercialization. "We are very pleased to partner with Roivant, an emerging leader in biopharma with proven commitment to developing innovative therapies in major disease areas. Roivant's vision complements Poxel's strategy of bringing novel treatments for type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders to patients," said Thomas Kuhn, CEO of Poxel. "This is a significant milestone for Poxel and for the development of imeglimin in the U.S., Europe, and other countries outside of the Asian markets where we have already partnered with Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma. The imeglimin Phase 3 TIMES type 2 diabetes program in Japan is underway with a target Japanese New Drug Application submission in 2020, and imeglimin is ready to advance into late-stage development in the U.S. and Europe. 2018 will be a transformative year for Poxel as we advance the TIMES program in Japan, collaborate with Roivant on imeglimin, and increase our focus on our earlier-stage pipeline." "We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Poxel as we continue our strategy of in-licensing late-stage development candidates in underserved therapeutic areas," said Vivek Ramaswamy, Founder and CEO of Roivant Sciences. "This agreement represents the beginning of our focus on metabolic diseases and imeglimin, with its compelling and consistent ata, will be a cornerstone program. We are looking forward to rapidly advancing its development."



Activities in 2018 to support initiation of the Phase 3 program will include differentiation studies to confirm imeglimin's potential in sensitive patient populations, such as those with chronic kidney disease, as well as manufacturing of the drug product for use in the Phase 3 program. The goal is to initiate the Phase 3 program in the U.S. and Europe in 2019. Imeglimin has completed Phase 1 and Phase 2 development in 18 clinical studies involving over 1,200 subjects with type 2 diabetes in the U.S., Europe, and Japan, and met its primary and secondary endpoints, including a statistically significant decrease of HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose versus placebo, with a favorable side effect profile. For more information about imeglimin clinical studies, please visit www.poxelpharma.com.

Poxel will host an investor conference call today to discuss this partnership at 1 pm Eastern Time (7 pm Central European Time). To participate in the call, please use the dial-in numbers below. France: +33 (0)1 70 807 153

UK: +44 (0) 20 3107 0289

US: +1 (877) 293 6124 Conference ID: 8391409 A recording of the conference call will be available two hours after the call's completion for at least 30 days. To access the recording, use the dial-in below. Replay Number:

US : +1 (855) 859-2056

Outside US: +1 (404) 537-3406

Access code: 8391409 About Imeglimin Imeglimin is the first clinical candidate in a new chemical class of oral agents called the Glimins by the World Health Organization. Imeglimin has a unique mechanism of action (MOA) that targets mitochondrial bioenergetics and acts on the three key organs which play an important role in the current anti-diabetic treatment paradigm: the liver, muscles, and the pancreas2. Studies conducted to date have suggested potential glucose lowering benefits through increased insulin secretion in response to glucose3, improved insulin sensitivity4, and suppression of gluconeogenesis2. Imeglimin's MOA also has the potential to prevent endothelial and diastolic dysfunction5,6,7, and to provide protective effects on beta-cell survival and function8. Poxel plans to publish preclinical and clinical data on imeglimin and to present findings at multiple scientific and medical congresses in 2018. About Poxel SA Poxel uses its development expertise in metabolism to advance a pipeline of drug candidates focused on the treatment of metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes. We have successfully completed our Phase 2 clinical program for our first-in-class lead product, imeglimin, which targets mitochondrial dysfunction, in the U.S., Europe and Japan, and the Phase 3 Trials of IMeglimin for Efficacy and Safety (TIMES) program in Japan is underway. Our second program, PXL770, a direct adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, is completing Phase 1 development. Based on this central metabolic role, targeting AMPK offers the opportunity to pursue a wide range of indications to treat chronic metabolic diseases, including diseases that affect the liver, such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We intend to generate further growth through strategic partnerships and pipeline development. (Euronext: POXEL, www.poxelpharma.com) About Roivant Sciences Roivant is dedicated to transformative innovation in healthcare. Roivant focuses on realizing the full potential of promising biomedical research by developing and commercializing novel therapies across diverse therapeutic areas. Roivant partners with innovative biopharmaceutical companies and academic institutions to ensure that important medicines are rapidly developed and delivered to patients. Roivant advances its drug pipeline through wholly- or majority-owned subsidiary companies, including Axovant (neurology), Myovant (women's health and endocrine diseases), Dermavant (dermatology), Enzyvant (rare diseases), and Urovant (urology). Roivant also pursues its mission by incubating and launching innovative healthcare companies operating outside of traditional biopharmaceutical development. Roivant's long-range mission is to reduce the time and cost of developing and delivering new medicines for patients. For more information, please visit www.roivant.com. Forward-Looking Statement All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release about future events are subject to (i) change without notice and (ii) factors beyond the Company's control. These statements may include, without limitation, any statements preceded by, followed by or including words such as "target," "believe," "expect," "aim," "intend," "may," "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "project," "will," "can have," "likely," "should," "would," "could" and other words and terms of similar meaning or the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control that could cause the Company's actual results or performance to be materially different from the expected results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. 1. The Poxel and Roivant agreement includes all countries other than those covered under the Poxel and Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma agreement, which includes Japan, China, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore, Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Kingdom of Cambodia, and Lao People's Democratic Republic.

2. Fouqueray et al., J Diabetes Metab 2011, 2:4.

3. Pacini G et al., Diabetes Obes Metab. 2015;17:541-5.

4. Vial et al., Diabetes, 2015;64:2254-2264.

5. Detaille et al. Cell Death Discovery, 2016; 2,15072.

6. Poster #717, European Association for the Study of Diabetes, 12th-16th September 2016, Munich, Germany.

7. Poster #2054, American Diabetes Association, 9th-13th June 2017, San Diego, USA.

8. Poster #00084 World Congress on Insulin Resistance, Diabetes & Cardiovascular Disease, 1st-3rd December 2016, Los Angeles, USA. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180211005061/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] DTach Svenska AB Releases DTach Desk Stand With Wireless Charging

STOCKHOLM, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- DTach Svenska AB (DTach Sweden AB), a Scandinavian brand and designer of innovative solutions for wireless smartphone charging, recently released their newest product. The DTach desk stand with wireless charging offers an upright design, allowing users to keep an eye on their phone, read notifications and write messages - all while charging the battery. Charging is done by using induction technology where the phone is placed directly on the charger and is held in place by magnets. The accessible design eases the inconvenience of top-up charging and keeps the user from running out of batteries during the day. Its tilted design provides the user total control over their smartphone and allows them to still use it while charging. DTach desk stand is also compatible with most QI-compatible devices and works seamlessly with both iPhone 8, iPhone X and the Samsung Galaxy S6/S6 Edge devices, so the whole family can use one set of base stations. The sleek Scandinavian design blends in with a modern home or office environment. Customers have been providing some great feedback about its functionality and design. Emelie W. wrote, "The DTach wireless smartphone charger tops up my phone both fast and efficiently. It's clean and stable desig also blends in well with a modern furnishing. Another great thing about it is that it stands upright, allowing me to FaceTime or watch movies when my hands are full."



Another satisfied customer, Chuang K. noted, "Fantastic design that exceeded my expectations. What I also like about it is the fact that it charges my phone quickly. Would warmly recommend the DTach device to anyone looking for a proper wireless smartphone charger." Robert Wollner is the CEO and co-founder of the company and the driving force behind DTach. The company aims to ensure that DTach products are appealing to the eye and have a clever and consistent design language. It's also important that products are user-friendly so Wollner relies on induction technology, eliminating the need for cords and cables.

Innovation is a huge priority to DTach Sweden. They want to create products that are smarter, faster and cooler than what's currently on the market while still keeping an eye on quality and ease of use for their customers. All DTach products are certified by Apple and carry the MFi certification. The DTach desk stand with wireless charging is available on Amazon and Vidaxl. For more information about the product and company, visit Dtach-cases.com. About DTach Svenska AB DTach Svenska AB creates innovative and user-friendly solutions that improve the functionality of smartphones. The company specializes in solutions for wireless charging that contribute to a more frictionless life for users. To learn more, visit Dtach-cases.com. Media contacts:

Robert Wollner

email: robert@dtach-cases.com

phone: +46 709 727679 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dtach-svenska-ab-releases-dtach-desk-stand-with-wireless-charging-300596796.html SOURCE Dtach Svenska AB

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Tobii Pro Acquires UK Reseller Acuity ETS and Research Agency Acuity Intelligence

STOCKHOLM, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Tobii has entered an agreement to acquire Acuity ETS, the largest reseller of Tobii Pro's research solutions, and Acuity Intelligence, a neuroscience-based research and consultancy firm. The acquisition is aimed at strengthening Tobii Pro by enabling direct sales of products and services in the United Kingdom. The Acuity businesses will be integrated into the Tobii Pro business unit, global leader in eye-tracking research solutions. Based in the United Kingdom, Acuity ETS serves a range of businesses and the academic community with eye tracking research solutions. Acuity Intelligence has extensive experience in cognitive and behavioral research methods and conducts eye tracking studies on behalf of global brands. Through the acquisition, Tobii Pro establishes its own office in the UK and gains access to direct sales in one of its primary markets. Tobii Pro will also be able to expand its research consultancy Tobii Pro Insight, serving the many global brands headquartered in the UK. Included in the deal, Tobii acquires analytics software for eye-tracking studies in VR environments. "Acuity has been working closely with Tobii Pro since 2008 and has extensive knowledge of our eye-tracking products as well as the local market. By integrating our organizations, we aim to gain synergies and increase sales effectiveness in both solutions and services sales," said Tom Englund, President of Tobii Pro. "I'm very pleased to welcome the Acuity teams to Tobii Pro and to continue our long-term relationship, now as direct colleagues." "Further, Acuity's VR analysis software tool will become part of Tobii Pro's product portfolio during 2018, allowing our customers to collect eye tracking data to analyze and visualize what people pay attention to in VR environments. This end-to-end solution will further strengthen Tobii Pro's position in meeting the strong demand for eye-tracking studies in VR," Englund continues. Acuity ETS and Acuity Intelligence are based in Reading and together employ eight people. Net sales in the combined entities for 2016/2017 were approximately GBP 2 million, corresponding to approximately SEK 22 million. Under the terms of the agreement, the acquisition will be finalized later this month, and the process of integrating the operations will begin immediately. The payment will be paid with cash at hand. Additional financial information will be disclosed in Tobii's interim report for the first quarter 2018. Contact: Cecilia Lago Albright

PR and Communications Manager

Tobii Pro

phone: +46-707-43-13-45

email: cecilia.albright@tobii.com Sara Hyleen

Corporate Communications

Director of Tobii

tel: 46-70-916-16-41

email: sara.hyleen@tobii.com This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

http://news.cision.com/tobii-ab/r/tobii-pro-acquires-uk-reseller-acuity-ets-and-research-agency-acuity-intelligence,c2450057 The following files are available for download:







http://mb.cision.com/Main/2874/2450057/790526.pdf Tobii Pro acquires Acuity - press release - 12February2018 http://mb.cision.com/Public/2874/2450057/964803626aa25f06.pdf Tobii forvarvar Acuity - press release - 12februari2018



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Stephens & Associates' Clinical and Business Teams Will be Attending the American Academy of Dermatology's Annual Meeting in San Diego

Stephens & Associates, Inc. is a clinical investigative site and contract research organization (CRO) dedicated to providing the highest quality study design, data evaluation and report preparation for its global industry sponsors. Sponsors include dermatology, cosmetic, medical device and personal care companies. The clinical research teams and business leaders from both the Dallas and Phoenix centers will be attending the 2018 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting from February 16 through 20 at the San Diego Convention Center. Stephens invites attendees interested in learning about the company's industry-leading studies, including the newly enhanced Photobiology Program with a secure outdoor facility in Phoenix, contact Brooke Stephens at (972) 392-1529 or BStephens@stephens-associates.com to arrange a meeting. Thomas J. Stephens, Ph.D., president and founder, comments, "I am pleased to announce that Anthony Nuara, M.D., Ph.D. has joined Stephens & Associates as Medical Director and a principal investigator. Dr. Nuara is a highly accomplished physician and research scientist. His translational research expertise helps to bring bench to bedside and his years of medical practice in advanced medical, surgical, cosmetic and pediatric dermatology deepn our current expertise."



"We are honored to have Dr. Nuara associated with our company," continues Lawrence A. Rheins, Ph.D., Senior Director of the Phoenix facility. "He will be working closely with the Phoenix center on a variety of consumer, OTC, and prescriptive studies. We are confident that his knowledge of molecular microbiology and immunology as well as dermatology practice will add value to Stephens and grow our business." Further details regarding the availability of outdoor studies and the advanced Photobiology Program will be announced after the AAD.

To inquire about clinical trial services, please contact Dr. Lawrence Rheins, Phoenix Senior Director, at 480-682-0317 or lrheins@stephens-associates.com. Stephens & Associates Stephens & Associates, Inc. is a clinical investigative site and contract research organization (CRO) with state-of-the-art technology and full service capabilities to maximize success in all phases of testing. With superior in-house scientific expertise, meticulous quality standards and more than 28 years of experience, Stephens consistently provides top quality, value added clinical trials to a variety of clients, including companies developing and manufacturing skin care products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, medical devices and personal care products. The firm's size, flexibility and relentless focus on the skin care niche, enables Stephens to offer industry-leading turnaround times, impeccable study execution and data analysis. For information about clinical trial services, go to www.stephens-associates.com. Study participants should visit www.sastudies.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005494/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Corent Technology Delivers Automated Tool for Migration to Microsoft Azure Stack

Corent Tech Adds Azure Stack as a Migration Target to Support Hybrid Cloud for Enterprise Customers

Corent's SurPaaS is a fully integrated platform to automatically analyze, migrate, cloudify, PaaSify and if desired - SaaSify - practically any software application, on Azure and Azure Stack, without any programming.



ALISO VIEJO, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Corent Technology (www.CorentTech.com), a leader in Microsoft Azure cloud migration, modernization and SaaSification technology, today announced it has added support for Azure Stack within its migration platform. With this extension, Corents SurPaaS MaaS (Migration as a Service) platform allows Microsoft partners and enterprise customers to rapidly analyze, optimize, and migrate applications into Azure, as wll as into Azure Stack for Hybrid Cloud environments.







Microsoft enterprise customers and partners have been using Corent Technologys SurPaaS platform and its MaaS for migrating applications to Azure, and the addition of Azure Stack as a supported destination will provide more hybrid options for enterprise customers and CSPs. We are excited to announce our support for migrations to Microsoft Azure Stack, said Shafi Syed CTO and Co-Founder of Corent Technology. Corents SurPaaS platform provides an automation tool for system integrators, cloud solution providers (CSPs) and enterprise customers to reduce cost and time involved in their Azure migrations, whether they are using public, private or hybrid cloud approaches to their cloud initiatives.

Jeremy Winter, Director, Azure Management, Microsoft Corp., added, "We are pleased Corent has extended their range of Azure migration solutions to include Azure Stack as a destination. Supporting migrations to Azure Stack, as an extension of Microsoft Azure, enables a truly consistent hybrid cloud solution for customers, which empowers them to maximize their investments across cloud and on-premises environments." About Corent Technology

Corent Technology Inc. is a global company based in Orange County California, with principal technology teams in Silicon Valley and Chennai, India and sales and support in the UK, EU and numerous Asia Pacific locations. Corent is led by a team of seasoned IT veterans from Microsoft, HP, IBM, Oracle, EMC and VMware, whose years of experience combined with their disruptive and innovation leadership, is helping accelerate the IT industrys journey to Cloud. Corents SurPaaS Platform is used by key enterprises, system Integrators and cloud providers to enable automated discovery, analysis, planning, optimization and migration to the cloud; and optionally, transformation to SaaS. SurPaaS enables organizations to make their journey to the cloud with speed, efficiency and optimizations while leveraging the unique capabilities and characteristics of cloud technology. For more information about Corent, please visit www.corenttech.com; and to contact Corent please drop a note to info@corenttech.com. Corent Media Contact:

Dan Chmielewski

Madison Alexander PR

(949) 614-0634

dchm@madisonalexanderpr.com

info@corenttech.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at //www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d927bcf8-eb2e-46db-8164-365814c301e1

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] ShapeBlue Connector Empowers Cloudian Users to Manage Object Storage within Apache CloudStack

SAN MATEO, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cloudian, the innovation leader in enterprise object storage systems, today announced that ShapeBlue, the worlds largest independent integrator of CloudStack technologies, has developed a CloudStack connector plugin for Cloudians HyperStore.

The HyperStore Connector is a native open-source Apache CloudStack plugin that integrates Cloudian S3-compatible storage and the Cloudian Management Console (CMC) into the CloudStack Management GUI, allowing CloudStack users to access and manage their own S3 storage areas. The connector will make it easier for organizations running CloudStack to provide access to S3-compliant object storage with the same user experience as CloudStack, including single sign-on and storage management through the CloudStack UI. Anyone running CloudStack starting with version 4.11, released today, will be able to run the connector without the need to externally install it. This gives the CloudStack user community the power of Cloudians object storage system through an interface thats already familiar to them, said Sanjay Jagad, senior director of product solutions at Cloudian. Extending access to scale-out storage enables service providers delivering public and private IaaS platforms to offer new storage services that meet their customers needs in an era of exploding data volumes. Many major public cloud providers and enterprises leverage Apache CloudStack to deliver reliable, easy-to-deploy, multi-tenant cloud services, said Giles Sirett, CEO of ShapeBlue. These organizations need easy-to-manage, highly scalable storage solutions that integrate out of the box, making this solution an ideal fit. Already, a number of joint customers arerunning HyperStore in CloudStack-powered clouds.



About Apache CloudStack

Apache CloudStack is the turnkey Open Source Cloud computing software platform from the Apache Software Foundation that is used for creating private, public, and hybrid cloud environments. Apache CloudStack Clouds enable billions of dollars worth of business transactions annually across their clouds. Its maturity, stability and ease of deployment has led it to become the Open Source platform of choice for many service providers offering on-demand, elastic public cloud computing services. CloudStack is also leveraged by many enterprises to provide private or hybrid clouds for use by their employees.

CloudStack includes an intuitive user interface and rich APIs for managing the compute, networking, software, and storage infrastructure resources. It supports a broad range of integration points for both traditional and Cloud-native workloads. For more information visit http://cloudstack.apache.org/ About ShapeBlue

ShapeBlue are the largest independent integrator of CloudStack technologies globally and are specialists in the design and implementation of IaaS cloud infrastructures for both private and public cloud implementations. Services include IaaS cloud design, software engineering, CloudStack consulting, and training. The company has a global customer base with offices in London (UK), Mountain View (CA), Bangalore (India), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), and Cape Town (South Africa). For more information, visit http://www.shapeblue.com/. About Cloudian? Cloudian turns information into insight with an infinitely scalable platform that consolidates, manages and protects enterprise data. Cloudian Enterprise Object Storage brings cloud technology and economics to the data center with uncompromising data durability, intuitive management tools and the industrys most compatible S3 API. Cloudian and its ecosystem partners help Global 1000 customers simplify unstructured data management today, while preparing for the data demands of AI and machine learning tomorrow. Join us on LinkedIn, follow us on Twitter (@CloudianStorage) and Facebook, or visit us at www.cloudian.com. Media Contact:

Rick Popko

10Fold

cloudian@10Fold.com

415-800-5381

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] CRN Recognizes Cloudian's Lisa Sensmeier in 2018 Channel Chief List

SAN MATEO, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cloudian, the innovation leader in enterprise object storage systems, today announced that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Lisa Sensmeier, Cloudian senior director of channel marketing, to its prestigious list of 2018 Channel Chiefs. The executives on this annual list represent top leaders in the IT channel who excel at driving growth and revenue in their organization through channel partners.

Channel Chief honorees are selected by CRNs editorial staff on the basis of their professional achievements, standing in the industry, dedication to the channel partner community, and strategies for driving future growth and innovation. Each of the 2018 Channel Chiefs has demonstrated loyalty and ongoing support for the IT channel by consistently promoting, defending and executing outstanding channel partner programs. Lisas recognition on CRNs prestigious 2018 Channel Chiefs list is a strong testament to Cloudians ongoing dedication to making its channel program stronger, more accessible and more profitable for our partners each year, said Jon Toor, CMO of Cloudian. Cloudians award-winning channel leadership is a direct result of Cloudians continuous commitment to innovation in object storage technology, which has given Cloudian partners the ability to stay relevant, competitive and profitable with a strong portfolio of innovative data storage solutions aimed at meeting their customers rapidly evolving storage needs. Enterprises are facing mounting storage challenges as both capacity requirements and frequency of archive access have significantly increased. These evolving storage trends, in turn, have driven a demand for new and innovative achive technologies that can keep pace with this growing demand for capacity. Cloudians HyperStore provides organizations with multitenant and multi-datacenter hybrid cloud storage that can scale out quickly to meet expanding capacity needs. In addition, Cloudian recently launched its HyperFile solution, an integrated NAS controller that delivers SMB/NFS file services from on-premises Cloudian HyperStore object storage systems. Both solutions enable partners to boost profitability and add value with the ability to offer enterprise customers a way to overcome major capacity challenges efficiently and cost-effectively.



The executives on CRNs 2018 Channel Chiefs list stand out for their exceptional leadership, vision and commitment to the channel, said Robert Faletra, Executive Chairman of The Channel Company. These individuals deserve special recognition for their development and support of robust partner programs, innovative business strategy and significant contribution to the overall health of a vigorously growing channel. We applaud each Channel Chiefs impressive record of accomplishments and look forward to their future successes. The 2018 CRN Channel Chiefs list, including the 50 Most Influential Channel Chiefs, is featured online at www.crn.com/channelchiefs and will appear in the February 2018 issue of CRN.

About Cloudian

Cloudian turns information into insight with an infinitely scalable platform that consolidates, manages and protects enterprise data. Cloudian Enterprise Object Storage brings cloud technology and economics to the data center with uncompromising data durability, intuitive management tools and the industrys most compatible S3 API. Cloudian and its ecosystem partners help Global 1000 customers simplify unstructured data management today, while preparing for the data demands of AI and machine learning tomorrow. Join us on LinkedIn, follow us on Twitter (@CloudianStorage) and Facebook, or visit us at www.cloudian.com. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved

Media Contact:

Rick Popko

10Fold

cloudian@10Fold.com

415-800-5381

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] EPAM Recognized Among Top Global Tech Companies Leading in Open Source Contributions

NEWTOWN, Pa., Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE:EPAM), a leading global provider of digital platform engineering and software development services, was ranked #14 in the number of employees that actively contributed to Open Source projects on GitHub. According to InfoWorld, EPAM had 585 active contributors to GitHub in 2017. The list was compiled using the GitHub REST API to pull public information from GitHub users with at least 10 commits to public projects last year.

EPAM currently has over 1,300 Open Source contributors and more than 61,000 commits in the public domain, and is committed to the advancement of Free and Open Source software. EPAMs employees contribute to a diverse range of Open Source projects across domains such as big data and embedded as well as key industries, including Life Sciences and Healthcare, Financial Services and Retail. The Free and Open Source movement has significantly improved the speed and efficiency of software development through its emphasis on building a community that thrives on experimentation and collaboration, said Dr. Konstantin Boudnik, Chief Technologist, Big Data and Open Source Fellow, EPAM. By making code transparent and accessible to everyone, Open Source projects are driving technology change through a distributed and collective approach to innovation. We are proud to be an organization that supports the global Open Source community and encourages our over 25,000 engineers to be active contributors. EPAM regularly sponsors and hosts hackathons for its customers, partners, employees and the technology community at large that accelerate the pace of innovation and encourage Open Source contribution. For more information about EPAMs contribution to Open Source, please visit http://opensource.epam.com. To learn more about the ranking of GitHub contributors, visit www.infoworld.com/article/3253948/open-source-tools/who-really-contributes-to-open-source.html.



About EPAM Systems

Since 1993, EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE:EPAM) has leveraged its core engineering expertise to become a leading global product development and digital platform engineering services company. Through its Engineering DNA and innovative strategy, consulting, and design capabilities, EPAM works in collaboration with its customers to deliver innovative solutions that turn complex business challenges into real business opportunities. EPAMs global teams serve customers in over 25 countries across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. EPAM is a recognized market leader among independent research agencies and was ranked #12 in FORBES 25 Fastest Growing Public Tech Companies, as a top information technology services company on FORTUNES 100 Fastest-Growing Companies, and as a top UK Digital Design & Build Agency. Learn more at http://www.epam.com/ and follow us on Twitter @EPAMSYSTEMS and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes statements which may constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the accuracy of which are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied include general economic conditions and the factors discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. EPAM undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities law.

CONTACT: Danielle Ruess-Saltz

M: 267.978.7688

danielle_ruess-saltz@epam.com

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]A chance for every Flip gangster politician to get as rich as Marcos-and no matter how much money happens they'll all be broke in a few years

PH holds USD26.3-T untapped oil deposits

MANILA

Time to modernize

 The Philippines is virtually sitting on a mountain of gold, with untapped hydrocarbon deposits estimated at USD26.3 trillion, mostly found in the disputed Spratly chain of islands, more than enough to free the country from the shackles of poverty.The oil deposits have been there for centuries, yet they have remained untouched. This is sad because these oil deposits could have been tapped for the economic development of the country.If finally tapped, the Philippines would not have to import expensive oil. In fact, the country would be an exporter of oil products and at the same time, provide an answer to the unabated rise of gasoline prices almost every week.Retired Brig. Gen. Eldon G. Nemenzo, a pilot and former deputy commander of the 3rd Air Division of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) based in Zamboanga City, made a thorough research in his thesis when he took the advanced course at the Command and Staff College of the PAF in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City when he was still in the active service.He said the vast oil reserves of the Philippines found in various parts of the archipelago, specifically the Reed Bank, the largest of them all, and the Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands or the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG).The Philippines is like a blind beggar sitting on a mountain of gold. Within the countrys 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are potential recoverable hydrocarbon deposits worth an estimated USD26.3 trillion. This is more than enough to lift the country from the centuries-long morass of poverty and under development, Nemenzo said.The huge untapped oil deposits in the country may have attracted other nations like China and the United States.In fact, China has been aggressively constructing infrastructures in the Spratlys apparently to lay claim on these contested chain of islands claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam.In his research, Nemenzo found out that the amount of hydrocarbon deposits in the country could be more than USD26.3 trillion following the recent discovery of oil reserves in the Sulu-Celebes Sea which is within Philippine territory.The data Nemenzo gathered are supported by findings from other sources, including a report by Chinas Ministry of Geology and Mineral Resources, that the oil deposits in the Spratlys could reach 17.1 billion barrels.This is more than the 13 billion barrels of oil deposits of Kuwait, one of the worlds top oil producers.The Spratly issue has become a flashpoint following the discovery of oil underneath the sea in the 1970s.The Philippines is claiming ownership of the Spratly islands, along with China, Taiwan, Brunei, Malaysia, and Vietnam.In 1978, former President Ferdinand E. Marcos issued Presidential Decree 1596 incorporating some islands of the Kalayaan to strengthen Philippine claim over these mineral-rich islands.Aside from oil, natural gas, minerals and polymetals such as gold, silver, iron and nickel are found under the sea.The Spratlys is also a rich fishing ground as witnessed by this writer during a visit to the Kalayaan Island way back in 1979 with then Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile.During the interview, Nemenzo stressed the need to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), particularly by acquiring multi-role fighters (MRF) equipped with modern weapons to patrol and defend the countrys airspace and sea lanes with the latter more than twice as long as that of the United States.He also cited the need for Filipino technocrats to be at the forefront in running joint cooperation between the Philippines and foreign companies in oil exploration in these areas.We should not be left in the dark in managing our resources, Nemenzo said.The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) insists that Bajo de Masinloc is an integral part of the Philippine territory. It is part of the Municipality of Masinloc, Province of Zambales.Bajo de Masinlocs chain of reefs and rocks is about 124 nautical miles (NM) from the nearest coast of Luzon and 472 NM from the nearest coast of China. It is within the 200 NM Exclusive Economic Zone and 200 NM Continental Shelf of the Philippines.One of the earliest known and most accurate maps of the area, named Carta Hydrographical y Chorographica De Las Yslas Filipinas by Fr. Pedro Murillo Velarde, S.J., and published in 1734, included Bajo de Masinloc as part of Zambales.In 1792, another map drawn by the Alejandro Malaspina expedition and published in 1808 in Madrid, Spain, also showed Bajo de Masinloc as part of Philippine territory, it said.This map showed the route of the Malaspina expedition to and around the shoal. It was reproduced in the Atlas of the 1939 Philippine Census.The Mapa General, Islas Filipinas, Observatorio de Manila published in 1990 by the US Coast and Geodetic Survey, also included Bajo de Masinloc as part of the Philippines.At this point in time, while the AFP has acquired recently new F50 jets from South Korea and a number of new helicopters and other armaments for its modernization program, it is still a far cry from the year back when the military had in its arsenal squadrons of F-5s, F-86, F-8 supersonic fighter planes, some 140 helicopters and a number of naval warships.It is hoped that the 1995 AFP Modernization Program passed by Congress and signed by then President Fidel V. Ramos will be fully implemented during the term of President Rodrigo R. Duterte.For 2018, the Duterte administration has set aside PHP25 billion for the acquisition of attack helicopters, tanks and other military hardware for the AFP modernization.The Air Force badly needs multi-role jetfighters armed with missiles, the Navy needs new warships and the Army needs tanks and other weapons.It is time to modernize our defense capability now not tomorrow.[February 12, 2018] Deloitte Launches Center for Technology, Media and Telecommunications to Help Organizations Seize Opportunities and Take Smart Risks Amid Rapid Change

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Deloitte announced the opening of its new Deloitte Center for Technology, Media and Telecommunications (TMT) to help clients identify the right strategies as technology-driven business models swiftly separate winners and losers. The TMT center will advance timely and thought-provoking research to help TMT business executives see opportunities clearly and take smart risks. With a focus on business impact  not just new technologies and trends  the center's research will help executives simplify complex business issues and ask the right questions to remain competitive, both today and in the near-future. The TMT center is led by Jeff Loucks, executive director, Deloitte Services LP. Loucks is an award-winning author, research executive and thought leader. He co-authored the book, Digital Vortex, helping organizations adopt digital business models to compete effectively against digital disruptors. "In today's disruptive climate, tech, media and telecom companies can't afford to chart the wrong path. Fear of falling behind and faith in the latest transformative technology can lead even the smartest leaders astray," said Loucks. "Our research and insights help simplify cmplex issues so business executives can spot hidden opportunities and make timely, informed and confident choices."



Upcoming TMT center research shows companies how to benefit from what cognitive technologies can do today, while building the capabilities they will need as these technologies mature. The center will also examine how TMT companies are transforming themselves by harnessing new digital business models enabled by cloud computing, internet of things (IoT), mobility and flexible consumption ("pay-as-you-go"), among other issues. Finally, the center will explore the future of computing, consumption and connectivity, helping TMT companies stay ahead of the curve on new consumer behaviors. "Our clients count on Deloitte to help them transform uncertainty into opportunities and rapid change into lasting progress," said Sandra Shirai, vice chairman, Deloitte LLP, and U.S. technology, media and telecommunications leader. "Under Jeff's leadership, the center will cut through the hype and enable our clients to transform their business models with confidence, embrace smart risk and chart their future growth."

For more information on Deloitte's recent research on cognitive technologies, please read the "2017 Deloitte State of Cognitive Survey," and listen to Jeff Loucks discuss the impact of cognitive technologies on Deloitte's User Friendly podcast series here. Connect with us on Twitter: @DeloitteTMT and @Jeff__Loucks, and stay tuned for the center's next piece of research related to the impact of cognitive technologies for TMT companies, scheduled to release in early March 2018. About Deloitte

Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to many of the world's most admired brands, including more than 85 percent of the Fortune 500 and more than 6,000 private and middle market companies. Our people work across more than 20 industry sectors to make an impact that matters  delivering measurable and lasting results that help reinforce public trust in our capital markets, inspire clients to see challenges as opportunities to transform and thrive, and help lead the way toward a stronger economy and a healthy society. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee ("DTTL"), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as "Deloitte Global") does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the "Deloitte" name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/deloitte-launches-center-for-technology-media-and-telecommunications-to-help-organizations-seize-opportunities-and-take-smart-risks-amid-rapid-change-300596545.html SOURCE Deloitte

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] The World's First Electronic Communication Network For Digital Currencies Announces Collaboration with Seneca College

TORONTO, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Blockstation (The Company), a Blockchain token reference quote, delivery system, and electronic communications network company announces a collaboration with Seneca Applied Research and Innovation alongside Professor Ishaan Srivastava from Senecas School of Accounting and Financial Services.

Vanessa Williamson, Dean, Applied Research and Innovation commented, As blockchain is an undeniably ingenious invention, we are ecstatic to be working with a company like Blockstation at the forefront of it all. Blockstation is the first market delivery system for BlockChain Tokens. The collaboration will see the creation of paper based algorithmic consideration of currency pairs. Seneca will also look to identify and predict the best locations to position cryptocurrencies or fiat currencies for the purpose of buying/selling at the most favourable prices. The algorithmic formula will be derived from in-depth analysis of recent prices and trends. The companys objective is to obtain the latest iteration of the algorithm to produce a low risk return of 10% per month. Jai Waterman, Co-Founder and Chief Enterprise Architect of Blockstation commented, The collaboration with Seneca can maximize the potential of our proprietary algorithmic low rik trading engine by applying invaluable expertise in applied research. We applaud Seneca for their actions toward achieving corporate milestones, which will propel future academia. The company is pleased to be able to draw on Senecas expertise in applied research to enable this initiative to come to fruition.



The initial phase if successful will open the door to a broader collaboration in the future. Marko M. Hafez, Co-Founder and Corporate Director of Blockstation commented, Seneca has proven to be a leader in their space and takes a results orientated approach. As we embark on another major corporate milestone, we are fortunate to collaborate with Seneca Applied Research and Innovation. About Blockstation

Blockstation is at the forefront of research, development and commercialization of an enterprise grade, direct market access (DMA) platform for Blockchain Tokens like Bitcoin. This technology facilitates online electronic delivery and settlement of live streaming auditable reference quotes, allowing Blockchain Tokens to be accessed by traditional financial institutions and on-line retail trading platforms. Blockstations Electronic Communications Network (ECN) has been built using the methods and design principals of BATS, BRUT, Archipelago and Island, bridging the divide between legacy and distributed ledger technologies.

About Seneca

With campuses in Toronto, York Region and Peterborough, Seneca offers degrees, diplomas, certificates and graduate programs renowned for their quality and respected by employers. It is one of the largest comprehensive colleges in Canada, offering nearly 300 full-time, part-time and online programs. Combining the highest academic standards with work-integrated and applied learning, expert teaching faculty and the latest technology ensure Seneca graduates are career-ready. Blockstation can be found online at http://blockstation.com .

Media requests should be send to: info@blockstation.com. Contact Blockstation:

Maher Hafez

mh@blockstation.com

21 Dundas Sq

1st Floor,

Toronto Ontario

M5B 1B7, Canada

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] ResultsCRM Unveils Brand Redesign and New Software Innovations

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ResultsCRM (Formerly Results Software), a product of AbacusNext, today announced a comprehensive brand redesign including the logo and the user interface of its industry leading CRM software. The redesign represents ResultsCRMs investment in innovation and commitment to bringing users the most cutting-edge CRM experience available today. The new ResultsCRM is fully cloud-enabled and optimized to run on Abacus Private Cloud.





This redesign embodies our efforts to modernize the user experience as well as push the envelope and lead the way into the future of CRM software development, said Sam Saab, Executive Vice-President of Product for ResultsCRM. The new ResultsCRM is built around the philosophy that software should adapt to you and the way your business operates. With our new customizable UI, every client can have an application that feels and functions like it was made just for tem.



The latest version of ResultsCRM is optimized for the cloud and brings with it a redesign of the user interface based on an adaptive framework that delivers a consistent user experience across desktop, web, and mobile applications. The new user interface is also dynamically adaptable, with drag and drop tiles and data modules, allowing the look and feel of the software to be widely variable from one user to the next depending on their permissions, user role, and personal preferences. It also enables fully customizable reporting for in depth business intelligence and data analysis. ResultsCRMs intuitive design and adaptive framework make it easier to implement and easier to use than any other CRM solution on the market today, said Alessandra Lezama, CEO of AbacusNext. Where other CRM platforms can be cumbersome and filled with compromises, ResultsCRM is agile and flexible, able to run in any environment and supporting robust integration with both QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online, as well as TSheets, Constant Contact, ShareFile and many more. Its truly a game changer, and an indispensable tool for business of all sizes.

In addition, ResultsCRM will consolidate its offerings, merging the features of the Business Suite (previously an optional upgrade) into the core application. The Field Service Management module will continue to be offered as an optional enhancement to the base software for companies with teams serving clients in the field.

About ResultsCRM

Results Software provides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and business management solutions to a diverse client base that includes small businesses, enterprises, and nonprofits. Founded in 1985, its award-winning Results CRM software and services has helped organizations of all sizes streamline their operations, improve efficiencies, and increase overall performance. For more information, please visit AbacusNext.com/ResultsCRM About AbacusNext

As the largest Technology-as-a-Service (TaaS) provider for the professional services sector, AbacusNext helps legal and accounting professionals achieve ultimate success and peace of mind through the delivery of a complete suite of compliance-ready technology solutions designed to support a secure and cloud-enabled practice at a cost they can afford. Our portfolio of turnkey solutions includes hardware, software and infrastructure on a pay as you go model; Practice Management, Client Resource Management (CRM), Payment Processing, Email, Desktop as a Service (DaaS) and Managed IT. Headquartered in San Diego, California, and backed by private investment with Providence Equity, AbacusNext delivers products and services to over 500,000 businesses worldwide. To sign up or learn more visit AbacusNext.com. About Providence Equity

Providence is a premier global asset management firm with $45 billion in assets under management across complementary private equity and credit businesses. Providence pioneered a sector-focused approach to private equity investing with the vision that a dedicated team of industry experts could build exceptional companies of enduring value. Since the firm's inception in 1989, Providence has invested in more than 150 companies and is the leading equity investment firm focused on the media, communications, education and information industries. Providence is headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, and has offices in New York, London, Hong Kong, Singapore and New Delhi. For more information, please visit www.provequity.com. Contact: 858-529-0018 press@abacusnext.com

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] BIO Releases Report on State of Innovation for Pain and Addiction Therapeutics

Today, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) released a new report, The State of Innovation in Highly Prevalent Chronic Diseases: Pain and Addiction Therapeutics. While many promising treatment approaches are in development, lower investment and pipeline breadth in pain and addiction relative to other disease areas with high societal health burdens demonstrates the need for incentivizing more research and clinical development in these areas. "America's biopharmaceutical companies are committed to combating our nation's opioid epidemic," said BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood. "This will depend upon biomedical innovation and the development of novel and safer, next generation therapies to treat both pain and addiction, which together cost our country more than $1 trillion annually. While there are promising technologies under development, more must be done to stimulate research and development for these areas of high unmet need." The report analyzed the last decade of clinical trial activity, FDA approvals, and venture investment as well as the breadth and depth of the current pipeline for novel therapies in pain and addiction. Key Takeaways There have been only two novel chemical entities FDA approved to treat pain over the past decade.

The industry-wide pain pipeline consists of 215 clinical-stage drug programs, with 125 of these testing novel chemical entities in the clinic, 87% of which are for non-opioid receptors. These are relatively low numbers when compared to the current pipeline for oncology (2,617 total programs and 1,700 novel drug clinical-stage programs).

Over the past decade, the biopharmaceutical industry has been working to develop abuse deterrent formulations, with 142 clinical trials initiated and 12 FDA approvals for abuse deterrent pain products.

Clinical success in pain drug development has been extremely difficult for novel drugs, with only a 2% probability of FDA approval from phase I, compared to an overall 10% success rate across all diseases.

Private company investment, as measured by venture capital into US companies with lead stage programs in pain, is 3.6% of total drug development venture funding. For venture funding of novel R&D, pain has received 17 times less venture capital than oncology over the last decade.

There are only 15 active clinical-stage programs with novel compounds intended for addiction treatment: 10 for substance abuse, two for alcohol, and three for smoking cessation.

Venture investment for addiction drug R&D is nearly non-existent. "On the surface, 125 clinical-stage-programs utilizing 20 unique mechanistic strategies sounds impressive. However, with a success rate over the last decade of a mere 2 percent, only a few of these may actually reach FDA approval. As some of these future successes may be specific for chronic migraine and indications where opioids are not prescribed, more shots on goal are needed to fill the void in chronic pain," said report author David Thomas, Senior Director, Industry Research & Policy Analysis for BIO. "The addiction pipeline has 10-fold fewer clinical-stage programs than pain, suggesting a need for incentivizing innovation in this space." The report - The State of Innovation in Highly Prevalent Chronic Diseases: Pain and Addiction - is available for download here: www.bio.org/iareports. About BIO BIO is the world's largest trade association representing biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the world's largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world. BIOtechNOW is BIO's blog chronicling "innovations transforming our world" and the BIO Newsletter is the organization's bi-weekly email newsletter. Subscribe to the BIO Newsletter. Upcoming BIO Events







BIO CEO & Investor Conference

February 12-13, 2018

New York, New York BIO International Convention

June 4-7, 2018 Boston, MA BIO Asia International Conference March 19-20, 2018 Tokyo, Japan

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005692/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] MetLife to Invest Tax Savings in Employees

MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET) announced today that in light of tax reform, the company will increase the investment it makes in its employees. The company will strengthen financial security for U.S. employees by increasing the minimum wage it pays, enhancing benefits, and boosting contributions to retirement plans. It will also create a new $10 million skills development fund to help its employees around the world upgrade their workplace skills. "As a result of tax reform, we are making a significant investment in our employees. We are enhancing pay and benefit programs and helping them develop skills that will make them more valuable members of our team," said Chairman, President and CEO Steven A. Kandarian. "We are investing in their future and strengthening their long-term financial security with structural improvements that will endure. We are also channeling most of the benefits to employees at the lower end of the compensation spectrum." To help the company's global workforce identify and acquire the skills needed to compete in the 21st century digital workplace, MetLife is establishing a Workforce of the Future Development Fund. The company will invest $10 million to accelerate a culture of learning and innovation. For all eligible US. employees, MetLife's enhanced programs include:



Establishing a company minimum wage of $15 an hour, well above the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour.

Establishing a minimum MetLife-provided group life insurance benefit of $75,000, regardless of the employee's pay. Previously, the benefit was set at one times annual pay.

Introducing a $300 minimum monthly credit for the cash-balance formula of the company's defined benefit pension plan, also regardless of the employee's pay. MetLife is one of a limited number of Fortune 50 companies that continues to provide its employees with both a defined benefit pension plan and a defined contribution plan to help them build secure retirements.

Enhancing the 401(k) plan design by moving to auto-enrollment for employee contributions and immediate eligibility for, and vesting in, employer matching contributions. This is scheduled to take effect in 2019.

Extending company-paid group legal services offered through MetLife's Hyatt Legal Plans. Currently approximately one third of MetLife employees in the United States are enrolled in this voluntary benefit. With this change, legal services will be provided to MetLife's 18,000 employees in the United States at the company's expense. About MetLife MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), through its subsidiaries and affiliates ("MetLife"), is one of the world's leading financial services companies, providing insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management to help its individual and institutional customers navigate their changing world. Founded in 1868, MetLife has operations in more than 40 countries and holds leading market positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005695/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Pratt & Whitney Update on PW1100G-JM Engine

EAST HARTFORD, Conn., Feb. 12, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney, with the support of Airbus, continues to evaluate the impact of findings last week relating to a knife edge seal on the High Pressure Compressor (HPC) aft hub on a limited subpopulation of the PW1100G-JM engine that powers the Airbus A320neo aircraft. Pratt & Whitney implemented an engineering change in mid-2017 that was intended to improve the durability of the knife edge seal for this engine. Engines that incorporated this engineering change entered revenue service on customer aircraft beginning in December 2017. In late January and early February of this year, four of these modified engines did not perform as anticipated. Pratt & Whitney, in coordination with Airbus, will present to regulatory authorities this week a proposed mitigation pln for the modified configuration.



The current population of impacted engines is 43 engines installed on 32 aircraft, of which 21 aircraft have one engine with the modified configuration, and 11 aircraft have two engines with that configuration. There are also approximately 55 such engines delivered to the Airbus final assembly line awaiting installation on customer aircraft. Pratt & Whitney is working with Airbus to implement the remediation plans set forth in its all operator transmission. The company is also working to assess an overall industrial and delivery plan to minimize customer disruption. Pratt & Whitney will be in a position to provide greater detail around the remediation plan and impact, if any, on its 2018 delivery plan, once the regulatory authorities address its proposed solution. Pratt & Whitney

+1 (860) 565-9600

media@pw.utc.com

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pratt--whitney-update-on-pw1100g-jm-engine-300597036.html SOURCE Pratt & Whitney

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] The School District Of Philadelphia & Baltimore City Public Schools Say Goodbye To Polystyrene In Cafeterias

NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The School District of Philadelphia and Baltimore City Public Schools are the latest school districts in the Urban School Food Alliance (Alliance) to say goodbye to polystyrene serving items in schools for better environmental practices. Both Philadelphia and Baltimore have started the process of rolling out the use of compostable round plates designed by the Alliance in lunchrooms  with the two districts diverting 19 million polystyrene food service items from landfills. "One of the reasons we joined the Urban School Food Alliance last fall was not only to be able to provide the best quality food for our students, but to also implement sound environmental practices," said Elizabeth Marchetta, executive director of the Food and Nutrition Department at Baltimore City Public Schools. "With more and more cities striving for zero waste, we wanted to become proactive in making a change for the betterment of our community." The Urban School Food Alliance is a coalition of the largest school districts in the United States that includes New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Dallas, Orange County in Orlando, Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Clark County in Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Boston. In 2014, the original six members of the group (NYC, LA, Chicago, Miami, Dallas and Orange County) challenged industry to develop an innovative and affordable environmentally-friendly round plate to replace 225 million polystyrene trays across their six schools districts each year. "Shifting from polystyrene trays to compostable plates helps reduce plastics pollution in our communities and oceans and begins to create valuable compost that can be re-used on our farms," said Margaret Brown, attorney with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), one of the nation's leading environmental and public health organiztions and a non-profit partner of the Alliance. "This is also an important step for cities in beginning to slash significant amounts of waste going to overburdened landfills. The Urban School Food Alliance is helping Baltimore and Philadelphia make important changes that can be a model for schools across the country."



The Urban School Food Alliance serves nearly 3.7 million children daily, translating to more than 631 million meals a year. With an annual budget of $831 million in food and supplies, the nonprofit group allows the districts to share best practices and to leverage their purchasing power to continue to drive food quality up and costs down while incorporating sound environmental practices. "As one of the smaller districts in the Alliance, we couldn't have afforded to purchase compostable plates on our own," said School District of Philadelphia Senior Vice President of Food Services Wayne T. Grasela. "This initiative aligns with GreenFutures, the district's overall sustainability plan and advances the District's work in reducing our environmental impact."

Schools across America use polystyrene trays because they cost less than compostable ones. Polystyrene trays average about $0.04 apiece, compared to its compostable counterpart, which averages about $0.12 each. Given the extremely tight budgets in school meal programs, affording compostable plates seemed impossible until the Urban School Food Alliance districts used their collective purchasing power to innovate a compostable round plate for schools at an affordable cost of about $0.05 each. Philadelphia, which now uses the compostable plate, is meeting with student environmental clubs to help design a marketing campaign to get the word out about the new compostable plates and how they help preserve the environment. The district also plans a pilot program among its high schools to compost the plates. Baltimore will roll out the plates over the next three months in the district. It currently has composting in a few middle schools and plans to pilot composting programs in other schools. The American-made molded fiber compostable round plate is produced from 100 percent pre-consumer recycled paper fibers. It is manufactured in Maine by Huhtamaki North America. The Alliance round plate has five compartments, with the beverage compartment strategically placed in the middle to balance the weight of a typical meal. The innovative design prevents hinging or bending and is easy to handle. About the Urban School Food Alliance The Urban School Food Alliance was created by school food professionals in 2012 to address the unique needs of the nation's largest school districts. The nonprofit group allows the districts to share best practices and leverage their purchasing power to continue to drive quality up and costs down while incorporating sound environmental practices. New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Miami-Dade, Orange County in Orlando, Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Clark County in Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Boston together offer service in more than 5,600 schools to nearly 3.7 million children daily. This translates to more than 631 million meals a year. The coalition aims to ensure that all public school students across the nation receive healthy, nutritious meals through socially responsible practices. To learn more about the Urban School Food Alliance or to support its work, please visit www.urbanschoolfoodalliance.org. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-school-district-of-philadelphia--baltimore-city-public-schools-say-goodbye-to-polystyrene-in-cafeterias-300596751.html SOURCE Urban School Food Alliance

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Centrify's Brian Krause Recognized as 2018 CRN Channel Chief

Centrify, a leading provider of Zero Trust Security through the power of Next-Gen Access, today announced that CRN  , a brand of The Channel Company, has named Brian Krause, Director, North American Channels for Centrify, to its prestigious list of 2018 Channel Chiefs. The executives on this annual list represent top leaders in the IT channel who excel at driving growth and revenue in their organization through channel partners. Channel Chief honorees are selected by CRN's editorial staff on the basis of their professional achievements, standing in the industry, dedication to the channel partner community, and strategies for driving future growth and innovation. Each of the 2018 Channel Chiefs has demonstrated loyalty and ongoing support for the IT channel by consistently promoting, defending and executing outstanding channel partner programs. Since joining Centrify in 2015, Krause has launched a Partner Professional Services Certification Program, enabling Centrify to closer align with partners that focus on identity and break into the MSP market. He has also developed a monthly billing program to serve the needs of MSP Partners and re-architected Centrify's pricelist to serve the needs of the Channel. As a result, Centrify has seen an increase in deal sizes across its partners. "The executives on CRN's 2018 Channel Chiefs list stand out for their exceptional leadership, vision and commitment to the channel," said Robert Faletra, Executive Chairman of The Channel Company. "These individuals deserve special recognition for their development and support of robust partner programs, innovative business strategy and significant contribution to the overall health of a vigorously growing channel. We applaud each Channel Chie's impressive record of accomplishments and look forward to their future successes."



"Centrify's Zero Trust Security approach helps partners build best practices that enable our customers to protect their organizations as they access applications, endpoints and infrastructure, whether from the cloud or on-premise," said Krause. "I am honored to be named a 2018 CRN Channel Chief and will continue to create a channel ecosystem that helps customers verify every user, validate their device and limit the amount of access and privilege." The 2018 CRN Channel Chiefs list, including the 50 Most Influential Channel Chiefs, is featured online at www.crn.com/channelchiefs and will appear in the February 2018 issue of CRN.

Follow The Channel Company: Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook Tweet This: .@TheChannelCo names @Centrify's Brian Krause to @CRN 2018 Channel Chiefs list #CRNChannelChiefs www.crn.com/channelchiefs About Centrify Centrify delivers Zero Trust Security through the power of Next-Gen Access. Centrify verifies every user, validates their device and limits the amount of access and privilege to resources while continually learning and adapting. Centrify Next-Gen Access is the only industry-recognized solution that uniquely converges Identity-as-a Service (IDaaS), enterprise mobility management (EMM) and privileged access management (PAM). Over 5,000 worldwide organizations, including over half the Fortune 100, trust Centrify to proactively secure their businesses. About The Channel Company The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelco.com CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved. Centrify is a registered trademark and Centrify Server Suite, Centrify Privilege Service and Centrify Identity Services are trademarks of Centrify Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005283/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Thales recognized in 2018 CRN Channel Chiefs

SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Thales, a leader in critical information systems, cybersecurity and data security, announces that CRN  , a brand of The Channel Company, has named Mike Coffield, VP of Americas Channel Strategy, to its prestigious list of 2018 Channel Chiefs. The executives on this annual list represent top leaders in the IT channel who excel at driving growth and revenue in their organization through channel partners. Click to tweet: .@TheChannelCo names @thalesesecurity's Mike Coffield, VP of Americas Channel Strategy, to @CRN 2018 Channel Chiefs list #CRNChannelChiefs www.crn.com/channelchiefs Channel Chief honorees are selected by CRN's editorial staff on the basis of their professional achievements, standing in the industry, dedication to the channel partner community, and strategies for driving future growth and innovation. Each of the 2018 Channel Chiefs has demonstrated loyalty and ongoing support for the IT channel by consistently promoting, defending and executing outstanding channel partner programs. Coffield is responsible for Thales eSecurity's Americas channel program, which leverages his 20+ years of experience driving sales within the channel business as well as the identification, recruitment, onboarding and growth of channel partners. His efforts have resulted in significant revenue growth and high-value, long-term alliances, with Coffield currently leading a channel program of 500 partners benefiting from Thales's tools, training, support, and resources. A testament to his considerable leadership, this is the 4th year Coffield has been recognized as a CRN Channel Chief. Robert Faletra, Executive Chairman of The Channel Company says:

"The executives on CRN's 2018 Channel Chiefs list stand out for their exceptional leadership, vision and commitment to the channel. These individuals deserve special recognition for their development and support of robust partner programs, innovative business strategy and significant contribution to the overall health of a vigorously growing channel. We applaud each Channel Chief's impressive record of accomplishments and look forward to their future successes." Mike Coffield/span>, VP of Americas Channel Strategy at Thales eSecurity says:





"This year, Thales launched its Data Security Partner Program, which has resulted in increased channel engagement, customer traction and bottom line results, including a 25% increase of year-on-year channel growth. Despite security breaches increasing in sophistication, we are proud to report our channel partners are fully equipped to address today's security and compliance challenges and meet their customers' diverse array of data security needs." The 2018 CRN Channel Chiefs list, including the 50 Most Influential Channel Chiefs, is featured online at www.crn.com/channelchiefs and will appear in the February 2018 issue of CRN.

Industry insight and views on the latest data security trends can be found on the Thales eSecurity blog at blog.thalesesecurity.com. Follow Thales eSecurity on Twitter @Thalesesecurity, and on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube. About Thales eSecurity

Thales eSecurity is the leader in advanced data security solutions and services that deliver trust wherever information is created, shared or stored. We ensure that the data belonging to companies and government entities is both secure and trusted in any environment  on-premises, in the cloud, in data centres or big data environments  without sacrificing business agility. Security doesn't just reduce risk, it's an enabler of the digital initiatives that now permeate our daily lives  digital money, e-identities, healthcare, connected cars and, with the internet of things (IoT), even household devices. Thales provides everything an organisation needs to protect and manage its data, identities and intellectual property, and meet regulatory compliance  through encryption, advanced key management, tokenisation, and privileged-user control and high-assurance solutions. Security professionals around the globe rely on Thales to confidently accelerate their organisation's digital transformation. Thales eSecurity is part of Thales Group. About Thales

Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace, Transport, Defence and Security markets. With 64,000 employees in 56 countries, Thales reported sales of 14.9 billion in 2016. With over 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design and deploy equipment, systems and services to meet the most complex security requirements. Its exceptional international footprint allows it to work closely with its customers all over the world. Positioned as a value-added systems integrator, equipment supplier and service provider, Thales is one of Europe's leading players in the security market. The Group's security teams work with government agencies, local authorities and enterprise customers to develop and deploy integrated, resilient solutions to protect citizens, sensitive data and critical infrastructure Thales offers world-class cryptographic capabilities and is a global leader in cybersecurity solutions for defence, government, critical infrastructure providers, telecom companies, industry and the financial services sector. With a value proposition addressing the entire data security chain, Thales offers a comprehensive range of services and solutions ranging from security consulting, data protection, digital trust management and design, development, integration, certification and security maintenance of cybersecured systems, to cyberthreat management, intrusion detection and security supervision through cybersecurity Operation Centres in France, the United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Hong Kong. About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelco.com CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/thales-recognized-in-2018-crn-channel-chiefs-300596767.html SOURCE Thales

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Egress Expands Executive Team to Accelerate Growth

Data privacy and risk management company Egress Software Technologies has announced today the appointment of new senior team members including Tim Pickard as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Sudeep Venkatesh as Chief Product Officer (CPO), and Mark Bower as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). These appointments will further facilitate Egress' impressive growth, the development of its product portfolio, and support its increasing presence in North America. New Egress CMO, Tim Pickard, has previously held senior executive roles at companies including RSA (News - Alert) Security, Mimecast and New Voice Media, and his track record of high performance in areas such as corporate strategy, marketing, sales, and communications will provide Egress with additional support to achieve its high-growth ambitions. Tim commented: "I'm delighted to have joined such a focused and ambitious company, with foundations built on technical innovation and proven delivery. With a heightened data ecurity threat and greater pressure on organizations to meet regulatory compliance requirements than ever before, Egress is well placed to help organizations protect their data and mitigate risk through our focus on user centric data security."



CPO, Sudeep Venkatesh, has previously held senior sales product management positions with RSA Security, Voltage Security (News - Alert) and Hewlett Packard Enterprise, experience that will be put to use in supporting the company's vision for product expansion and high revenue growth. Finally, Mark Bower will be joining the team as CRO with three decades of IT product design and management experience from Sydney to Cupertino. Joining the team from Hewlett Packard Enterprise, where he worked as the Global Director for Product Management in the data security division, Mark will be spearheading Egress' growth plans for its North American operation, where it already has a presence in Boston and Toronto.

"We work in a rapidly changing environment, and it's critical for us to hire the right expertise that will both help us build an ambitious and forward-looking vision, and execute it successfully," said Tony Pepper, CEO of Egress. "I'm thrilled to be welcoming our three new team members, who each bring great experience to Egress, and I look forward to working closely with them in our mission to help business better protect the valuable data they hold." About Egress Software Technologies Egress Software Technologies is the leading provider of data security services designed to protect shared information throughout its lifecycle. Offering Public Sector and Enterprise customers a portfolio of complementary services, the Egress Switch platform enables end-users to share and collaborate securely while reducing the risk of loss and maintaining compliance. These award-winning integrated services include email and document classification, software to prevent emails being sent to the wrong person, email and file encryption, secure managed file transfer, secure online collaboration and secure email and file archiving. Certified by UK Government, Switch offers a seamless user experience, powerful real-time auditing and patented information rights management, all accessible using a single global identity. www.egress.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005771/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]Syria Does Not Fear War With Israel: The Rules Of Engagement Have Changed



When Red Lines Are Crossed In Syria, Expect Israel To Be Shaken



I think that Netanyahu is stating this garbage for domestic consumption, The Israeli's are running scared. bomb shelter sirens are sounding off constantly in/near the Golan Heights. The Israeli fighter jet was shot down in Israeli airspace. Israel pilots fire missiles into Syria from Israeli airspace. The radar system now in use by Syria can see everything that moves within Israeli airspace and it scares the hell out of Israel. The complete Arab street is having huge parties and passing out cookies to each other as their sense of pride bubbles forth as a result of this incidentIsrael will never attack Iran. If it did, Israel would be wiped off the globe. And what was not destroyed by Iran/Syria/Lebanon bombs would be made inhabitable from nuclear contamination as the Israeli nuclear plants at Dimona are destroyed.In Lebanon, Hassan Nasrallah (Hezbollah) has told Israel that it has 10 thousand missiles and 10,000 recruits to man each one. Therefore there is no way for Israel to quickly take them out before having the time or opportunity to be launched. The missiles will all be launched at one time. The head of Mossad has stated publicly that Hezbollah never lies.Netanyahu and The Clowns are all about to be indicted for corruption, therefore Netanyahu is simply trying to change the topic much like Trump did with the chemical plant bombing in Syria or when Clinton bombed the Al-Shifa pharmaceutical factory in Sudan in 1998.By Elijah J. MagnierFebruary 11, 2018By Elijah J. MagnierFebruary 11, 2018Israel's F16 Downed And Nothing Iranian HitElijah explains the factors on the ground and alliances prevalent., and details some of Hezbollahs capabilities.Host Morris Herman interviews Elijah J. MagnierFebruary 10, 2018(YouTube Video)watch?v=EH1LtxtrWiM[February 12, 2018] Michelle Accardi Recognized as CRN Channel Chief For 4th Consecutive Year

SARASOTA, Fla., Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ?Star2Star Communications, provider of the World's Most Complete Cloud Communications Solution with options ranging from Hosted to Hybrid, announced today that their President and Chief Revenue Officer, Michelle Accardi, was recognized by CRN as a 2018 Channel Chief. This represents Accardis fourth consecutive year on this prestigious list of channel executives.

CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, compiles their annual Channel Chief list to recognize leaders in the IT channel who drive growth and revenue for their organizations through channel partners. Honorees are selected by CRN based upon their professional achievements, industry standing, strategic goals, and overall dedication to the channel. Michelle Accardi was recognized for her dedication to elevating Star2Star channel partners experiences, which includes enhancements like more training options and a more streamlined order process. Partners also have global sales opportunities now thanks to Michelles vital role in the recent merger with Blueface, Europe's leading Unified Communications as a Service provider (UCaaS). She was also instrumental in the launch of several new products and pricing strategies and continues to demonstrate unwavering commitment to the channel overall. I am honored to be recognized as a 2018 Channel Chief, saidAccardi. I give 110% to our partner community, supporting their growth with an innovative Full Spectrum Communications Solution and a robust support team. I am proud of our continued growth as a global company and the dedication we all demonstrate to the channel. This past year has been an incredible journey with many big developments, and I am looking forward to our future.



Robert Faletra, Executive Chairman of The Channel Company, said, The executives on CRNs 2018 Channel Chiefs list stand out for their exceptional leadership, vision, and commitment to the channel . . . We applaud each Channel Chiefs impressive record of accomplishments and look forward to their future successes. The 2018 CRN Channel Chiefs list is featured at www.crn.com/channelchiefs and will appear in the February 2018 issue of CRN.

About Star2Star Communications Founded in 2006 in Sarasota, Florida, Star2Star Communications empowers global business success with a Full Spectrum Communications Solution. With options ranging from Hosted to Hybrid, Star2Star offers unparalleled value, reliability, quality, and scalability. Star2Star unifies business communications including voice, video, fax, mobile, chat, and presence management. Merged with Blueface, the leading pan-European UCaaS provider, Star2Star possesses a global influence and customer base. Blueface's proprietary cloud voice platform supports businesses of all sizes, ranging from small-to-medium to large enterprises and strategic wholesale customers. Star2Star's award-winning, patented Constellation Network overcomes the reliability and quality limitations of other communications technologies and enables companies to choose the deployment methodology that aligns best with their needs. For businesses who require high-quality voice, redundant networks for continuity, and ultra-reliable communications, Star2Star's Hybrid architecture offers the highest guaranteed SLAs in the industry at an affordable price. Businesses with less complexity, who seek the best communications capabilities for their employees and customers, can consider Star2Star's Hosted solution the optimal choice. With a customer retention rate of 99.85%, Star2Star has been recognized by a multitude of leading analysts. In the past seven years, Star2Star was named to the Forbes Most Promising Companies list, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 five times, and the Inc. 500|5000 seven times. The company was also named by IHS as a Top 10 Hosted Business VoIP/UC Provider and has been in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for UCaaS, Worldwide for the last four years. Casey OLoughlin

coloughlin@star2star.com

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Matthew Polly, Vice President of Worldwide Business Development and Channels of CrowdStrike, Recognized as 2018 CRN Channel Chief

CrowdStrike Inc., the leader in cloud-delivered endpoint protection, announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Matthew Polly, vice president of Worldwide Business Development and Channels of CrowdStrike, to its prestigious list of 2018 Channel Chiefs. The executives on this annual list represent top leaders in the IT channel who excel at driving growth and revenue in their organization through channel partners. Channel Chief honorees are selected by CRN's editorial staff on the basis of their professional achievements, standing in the industry, dedication to the channel partner community, and strategies for driving future growth and innovation. Each of the 2018 Channel Chiefs has demonstrated loyalty and ongoing support for the IT channel by consistently promoting, defending and executing outstanding channel partner programs. Under Polly's leadership, CrowdStrike has significantly grown its global partner footprint with new channel resellers, major system integrators (SIs), and technology alliances. The company launched a new partner portal, and expanded enablement options to help partners develop their CrowdStrike practices and ensure world-class customer support. CrowdStrike has expanded rapidly into the EMEA and APAC regions, heavily investing in its channel and partner ecosystem with key wins in the United Kingdom, Italy, Japan, Australia, India, and Singapore. Polly joined CrowdStrike in June 2017 to lead its rapidly growing partner program and drive joint go-to-market capabilities for CrowdStrike's robust partner ecosystem. Through CrowdStrike's platform-first approach, partners receive an open framework for the development and deployment of next-generation antivirus (AV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), security hygiene, vulnerability management, managed hunting, all delivered from a native cloud architecture. CrowdStrike continues to expand its Elevate Partner Program - an elite ecosystem of technology and solution providers, system integrators, and managed service providers that deliver the most revolutionary endpoint protection platform on the market. "The executives on CRN's 2018 Channel Chiefs list stand out for their exceptional leadership, vision and commitment to the channel," said Robert Faletra, Executive Chairman of The Channel Company. "These individuals deserve special recognition for their development and support of robust partner programs, innovative business strategy and significant contribution to the overall health of a vigorously growing channel. We applaud each Channel Chief's impressive record of accomplishments and look forward to their future successes." "I am thrilled to be named to CRN's 2018 Channel Chiefs list. This phenomenal group of individuals are committed to successful partner programs and driving value for security customers," said Matthew Polly, vice president of Worldwide Business Development and Channels. "At CrowdStrike, we are committed to expanding and supporting our global partner ecosystem to protect customers and stop breaches."



This year, CrowdStrike was positioned the highest for ability to execute and furthest to the right for completeness of vision in the Visionaries quadrant of the 2018 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms.[1] The 2018 CRN Channel Chiefs list, including the 50 Most Influential Channel Chiefs, is featured online at www.crn.com/channelchiefs and will appear in the February 2018 issue of CRN.

Follow The Channel Company: Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook [1] *Source: Gartner (News - Alert) , "Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms," Ian McShane, Avivah Litan, Eric Ouellet, Prateek Bhajanka, 24 January 2018. About CrowdStrike CrowdStrike is the leader in cloud-delivered endpoint protection. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), the CrowdStrike Falcon platform offers instant visibility and protection across the enterprise and prevents attacks on endpoints on or off the network. CrowdStrike Falcon deploys in minutes to deliver actionable intelligence and real-time protection from Day One. It seamlessly unifies next-generation AV with best-in-class endpoint detection and response, backed by 24/7 managed hunting. Its cloud infrastructure and single-agent architecture take away complexity and add scalability, manageability, and speed. CrowdStrike Falcon protects customers against all cyber attack types, using sophisticated signatureless AI and Indicator-of-Attack (IOA) based threat prevention to stop known and unknown threats in real time. Powered by the CrowdStrike Threat Graph, Falcon instantly correlates nearly 100 billion security events a day from across the globe to immediately prevent and detect threats. There's much more to the story of how Falcon has redefined endpoint protection but there's only one thing to remember about CrowdStrike: We stop breaches. You can gain full access to CrowdStrike Falcon Prevent by starting your free trial here. Learn more: https://www.crowdstrike.com/ Follow us: Blog | Twitter  2018 CrowdStrike, Inc. All rights reserved. CrowdStrike, CrowdStrike Falcon, CrowdStrike Threat Graph, CrowdStrike Falcon Prevent, Falcon Prevent, CrowdStrike Falcon Insight, Falcon Insight, CrowdStrike Falcon Discover, Falcon Discover, CrowdStrike Falcon Intelligence, Falcon Intelligence, CrowdStrike Falcon DNS, Falcon DNS, CrowdStrike Falcon OverWatch, Falcon OverWatch, CrowdStrike Falcon Spotlight and Falcon Spotlight are among the trademarks of CrowdStrike, Inc. Other brands may be third-party trademarks. About The Channel Company The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelco.com CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005773/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Execs In The Know Artificial Intelligence Briefings to Make Four Stops in 2018

PHOENIX, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Community of customer experience leaders, Execs In The Know, have announced the details for four Artificial Intelligence (AI) Briefings they will host in 2018. The Execs In The Know AI Briefings will make stops in Boston, MA; Atlanta, GA; Chicago, IL; and Seattle, WA, over the course of the year. Here are the official dates and locations: Boston, MA : February 13, 2018

: Atlanta, GA : April 19, 2018

: Chicago, IL : August 14, 2018

: Seattle, WA : October 18, 2018 Each event is an opportunity to discuss how AI is impacting service strategies, with other care leaders that are looking to maximize their strategy or implement it. Each day will feature a candid Q&A session with a panel of AI Solution Providers, followed by a Corporate only discussion. There will also be an Innovations Lab, allowing attendees to see live applications of how AI is working to iprove CX, in different channels and processes, with various solution providers. Networking, as well as discussion around challenges experienced, solutions, best practices, or innovations as it pertains to AI for customer service, will also be valuable takeaways.



To learn more about the event and how to register, visit the event website: http://www.execsintheknow.com/events/. About Execs In The Know

Execs In The Know is a global community of customer experience professionals, from various industry verticals, all focused on the same thing  excellence in customer service and experience. Execs In The Know gives brands a platform to share and gain insights, benchmark their brand, stay on top of the latest trends in CX, and create lasting relationships with their peers  "Leaders Learning From Leaders." Execs In The Know holds their national event  Customer Response Summit  twice a year (in the Spring and Fall), giving executives the opportunity to connect face-to-face. They also hold a number of other live regional events throughout the year including Subject Matter Briefings (on topics like social media, AI, SMS, outsourcing, etc.), Lunch & Learns, Workshops, and EITK Dinners. The community is able to stay engaged long after the events come to an end through industry content and thought leadership, webinars, reports, and various social communities. Learn more at www.execsintheknow.com. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/execs-in-the-know-artificial-intelligence-briefings-to-make-four-stops-in-2018-300596754.html SOURCE Execs In The Know

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Transportable Optical Clock Used to Measure Gravitation for the First Time

LONDON, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- A European collaboration involving clock experts from the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and the Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica (INRIM) has used one of the world's only transportable optical atomic clocks to measure gravitation for the first time. The results of the experiment were published in Nature Physics today. Until now, such delicate clocks have been restricted to laboratories at a few major research institutions, however, researchers at PTB have developed a transportable strontium optical lattice clock, opening up the possibility of performing measurements in the field. The transportable clock was driven in a vibration-damped and temperature-stabilised trailer to the French Modane Underground Laboratory (LSM). Operated by Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and Grenoble-Alpes University, the multidisciplinary lab is located 1,700m below a mountain top, in the middle of the Frejus road tunnel between France and Italy. There, the team measured the gravity potential difference between the exact location of the clock inside the mountain and a second clock at INRIM - located 90km away in Torino, Italy, at a height difference of about 1,000m. The accurate comparison of the two clocks was made possible using a 150km long optical fibre link, set up by INRIM, and a frequency comb from NPL, to connect the clock to the link. Researchers from Leibniz Universitat Hannover also determined the gravity potential difference using conventional geodetic techniques, and the two measurements were shown to be consistent. With improvements to the accuracy of the transportable optical clock, this technique has the potential to resolve height diffeences as small as 1cm across the Earth's surface. The advantage of using optical clocks is that they can make measurements at specific points, in contrast to satellite-based measurements, such as GRACE and GOCE , which average the gravity potential over length scales of about 100km.



This novel method could lead to higher resolution measurements of the Earth's gravity potential, allowing scientists to monitor - with unprecedented accuracy - continental height changes related to sea levels and the dynamics of ocean currents. It will also lead to more consistent national height systems. Currently, different countries measure the Earth's surface in the same way, but relative to different reference levels. Achieving consistency between national height systems will help to prevent costly mistakes from happening in engineering and construction projects. Improved measurements of gravity potential may also help to improve our understanding of geodynamic effects associated with mass changes under the Earth's surface.

This type of measurement of height will also help us to monitor changing sea levels in real-time, allowing us to track seasonal and long-term trends in ice sheet masses and overall ocean mass changes. Such data provides critical input into models used to study and forecast the effects of climate change. Helen Margolis, Fellow in Optical Frequency Standards and Metrology at NPL, said: "Our proof-of-principle experiment demonstrates that optical clocks could provide a way to eliminate discrepancies and harmonise measurements made across national borders. One day such technology could help to monitor sea level changes resulting from climate change." Christian Lisdat, Leader of the group 'Optical Lattice Clocks', at PTB, said: "Optical clocks are deemed to be the next generation atomic clocks - operating not only in laboratories but also as mobile precision instruments. This cooperation proves again how disciplines such as physics or metrology, geodesy and climate impact research can mutually benefit each other." Davide Calonico, Leader of the group 'Optical Lattice Clocks and Fibre links', at INRIM, said: "We demonstrated that optical clocks are valuable quantum sensors, and their quantum technology is beneficial outside primary metrology, in geodesy. Together, optical clocks and optical fibre links offer the possibility to access new and fascinating scientific investigation." Heiner Denker, Principal Investigator for Relativistic Geodesy and Gravimetry within geo-Q, at Leibniz Universitat Hannover, said: "The newly developed optical clocks have the potential to revolutionise geodetic height determination, as they can overcome some of the limitations of classical geodetic techniques. Optical clocks could help to establish a unified world height reference system with significant impact on geodynamic and climate research." References 'Geodesy and metrology with a transportable optical clock' Grotti et al., Nature Physics, DOI: 10.1038/s41567-017-0042-3 Media contact:

Alex Cloney, AprilSix Proof on behalf of NPL

alex.cloney@aprilsisxproof.com

+44(0)750-6022-367



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Delphix Brings Powerful New Data Security Capabilities to SAP

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Delphix, the company that has changed the dynamics of managing and consuming data, today announced new enhancements to the Delphix Dynamic Data Platform that deliver advanced algorithms specifically tuned for SAP data with the ability to mask full volumes of SAP data with an unmatched level of speed, simplicity, and accuracy. With the upcoming GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) deadline and other regulatory demands, these enhancements accelerate the time it takes enterprises to meet compliance requirements.

The Delphix Dynamic Data Platform removes the constraints on businesses and eliminates the need for expensive and lengthy service engagements to mask sensitive data. Companies can now benefit from a modern approach and accelerate their release speed and application quality. The Delphix Dynamic Data Platform now provides SAP customers the ability to: Automatically identify sensitive data within SAP  that is subject to GDPR  in minutes;

Apply masking to sensitive data with high performance;

Enable teams to mask SAP data once, then effortlessly delivery multiple copies t on-premise or cloud SAP environments.



Just in Time for GDPR This new capability is highly relevant within the context of the EU GDPR which compels businesses to adopt privacy by design to safeguard the personal information of EU citizens. As the digital backbone of many modern businesses, SAP applications typically capture sensitive information, such as customer records, intellectual property and financial data. The Delphix platform gives these global businesses a comprehensive solution to define and enforce GDPR compliance policies within complex SAP environments.

GDPR is the most substantial privacy regulation hitting enterprises in the last 30 year, added Holger Mueller, VP and Principal Analyst for Constellation Research. As such, CxOs struggle to ensure that massive  and rising  amounts of data are ready to comply with GDPR. The clock is ticking and any solution that helps CxOs quickly navigate the process for GDPR compliance on SAP data is highly attractive.



Secure More SAP Data, More Quickly Businesses can leverage these unique capabilities to accelerate application time-to-market and ensure compliance, across both SAP and non-SAP environments. Heres how it works: First, the Delphix platform intelligently profiles the many database tables in SAP applications to pinpoint sensitive data. Next, it masks the fields with sensitive data in a consistent fashion by masking algorithms which can be applied to both SAP and non-SAP apps so that interfaces and referential integrity is consistent across testing landscapes whether SAP only or hybrid. Finally, with advanced data virtualization technology, Delphix instantly delivers masked data copies to non-production environments and gives SAP teams dynamic data controls. Teams using the Delphix platform have the ability to bookmark and rewind secure data to accelerate testing cycles and maintain high-quality data in SAP environments. For more information on the Delphix Dynamic Data Platform, visit https://www.delphix.com/platform. For more information on Data Masking for SAP, check out: https://www.delphix.com/data-sheet/data-masking-sap About Delphix

Delphix's mission is to free companies from data friction and accelerate innovation. Fortune 100 companies use the Delphix Dynamic Data Platform to connect, virtualize, secure and manage data in the cloud and in on-premise environments. For more information visit www.delphix.com

Follow Delphix on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Contact: Alex Plant / alex.plant@delphix.com

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Jobcase Raises an Additional $11.5 Million, Closing Series A at $18.5 Million

BOSTON, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jobcase, the social platform for the future of work, announced that it closed its Series A-1 funding round with an additional $11.5 million, led by Providence Equity Partners. This is on top of $7 million in Series A funding led by Savano Capital Partners, bringing the total raised in 2017 to $18.5 million.

Jobcase operates based on one core mission - empowering people in their worklife. The strides the company is making in the employment space are creating lasting impact for its 80 million members, said Mark Hastings, Managing Director of Providence Equity Partners. We want to help Jobcase rapidly move the needle as they continue providing unmatched value for todays workforce. The company is helping prepare members and employers for the future of work - a future where numerous employers, frequent job changes, and more contract and part-time work is the norm - by providing both the community and tech-backed tools, like blockchain, that future workers and employers will need to thrive. Jobcase helps people take charge of their work-lives, providing members with invaluable connections on a platforminformed by machine learning, said Fred Goff, CEO of Jobcase. The support of a great partner like Mark Hastings & Providence Equity Partners enables us to even further accelerate our considerable growth rate so that Jobcasers can likewise accelerate the benefits of corresponding network effects. We look forward to a great partnership that will benefit not just American workers, but the global workforce as well.



About Jobcase

Jobcase, builders of technology and community to empower America's workforce, is one of the Boston area's fastest growing technology companies. Jobcase provides one place to manage all things job-related, including access to the knowledge, connections and wisdom of over 80 million registered members. Jobcase is an industry affiliated partner of MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, CSAIL, and Jobcase technology also powers over 100 job sites in the Jobcase Network. For more information, visit www.jobcase.com . About Providence Equity Partners

Providence Equity Partners is a premier global asset management firm with $50 billion in assets under management across complementary private equity and credit businesses. Providence pioneered a sector-focused approach to private equity investing with the vision that a dedicated team of industry experts could build exceptional companies of enduring value. Since the firms inception in 1989, Providence has invested in more than 160 companies and is the leading equity investment firm focused on the media, communications, education and information industries. Providence is headquartered in Providence, RI and also has offices in New York, London, Hong Kong, Singapore and New Delhi. For more information, visit www.provequity.com.



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] MoneyOnMobile Raises $5 Million from S7 Group

DALLAS and MUMBAI, India, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- MoneyOnMobile, Inc. (OTCQB: MOMT), one of India's largest phone-based payment networks, announced the company has completed a $5 million fundraise from the S7 Group, a private aviation and aerospace holding company in Russia. The raise will provide new capital through the issuance of Series H Convertible Preferred Shares. "The S7 Group has implemented several new technological improvements to various operations and payment processes across our holdings. We look forward to using our world-class expertise in India's fast developing payments market to continue MoneyOnMobile's growth," Oleg Gordienko, S7 Group Investment director, said. "We are excited to have the institutional investment support from the S7 Group. This capital infusion will enable us to continue to execute our business plan and drive growth across our product lines. As part of the deal we will bring to our board a strategy for how to leverage technologies the S7 Group has used to identify new growth opportunities, and will benefit from their experience in this area. Having worked with the principals at S7 Group over the last few years, I appreciate their confidence and enthusiasm about the future of MoneyOnMobile," says Harold Montgomery, CEO and Chairman. Terms of the Series H investment structure can be found in the 8k filing here: http://bit.ly/MOMTSECfilings ABOUT S7 GROUP

S7 Group is the largest private aviation and space holding company in Russia comprising air transportation, maintenance an space operations companies. In particular, S7 Airlines, a oneworld airlines alliance member, that serves 162 routes in 26 countries across CIS, Europe, Middle East, South-East Asia and Asia-Pacific region. In 2017 S7 Airlines carried over 14 million passengers.



About MoneyOnMobile, Inc.

MoneyOnMobile, Inc. is an India focused mobile payments technology and processing company offering mobile payment services. MoneyOnMobile enables Indian consumers to use mobile phones to pay for goods and services or transfer funds from one cell phone to another. It can be used as simple SMS text functionality or through the MoneyOnMobile application or internet site. MoneyOnMobile has more than 350,000 retail locations throughout India. Safe Harbor Statement

This release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of offers to buy any securities of any entity. This release contains certain forward-looking statements based on our current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this release are based on information available to us as of the date hereof. Our actual results may differ materially from those stated or implied in such forward-looking statements, due to risks and uncertainties associated with our business, which include the risk factors disclosed in our Form 10-K filed on July 6, 2017. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding our expectations, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future and can be identified by forward-looking words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "should," and "would" or similar words. We assume no obligation to update the information included in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Web site: www.MoneyOnMobile.in

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MoneyOnMobile

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneyOnMobile

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moneyonmobile

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxqO4N1z9acnQmEysjqfBaQ Media Contact:

Greg Allbright

Head of Global Communications

Dallas, Texas

+1 (214) 208-0923 Investor Relations:

Integra Consulting Group, LLC

Jeremy G. Roe, Founder, Managing Partner

+1 (925) 262-8305

jeremy@integracg.net View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/moneyonmobile-raises-5-million-from-s7-group-300597215.html SOURCE MoneyOnMobile

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] FireMon's Kurt Mills Recognized as 2018 CRN Channel Chief

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. and DALLAS, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FireMon, provider of continuous security for the hybrid enterprise, announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Kurt Mills, Vice President of Global Channel Sales & Operations, to its list of 2018 Channel Chiefs. The executives on this annual list represent top leaders in the IT channel who excel at driving growth and revenue in their organization through channel partners.

Channel Chief honorees are selected by CRNs editorial staff on the basis of their professional achievements, standing in the industry, dedication to the channel partner community and strategies for driving future growth and innovation. Each of the 2018 Channel Chiefs has demonstrated loyalty and ongoing support for the IT channel by consistently promoting, defending and executing outstanding channel partner programs. With a proven track record of building and upgrading channel programs, distribution and strategic relationships, Mills has put into place a highly effective, solution-oriented worldwide channel sales strategy. In the past year, he spearheaded the relaunch of FireMons Ignite Partner Program, which evolved and expanded the program internationally and introduced new systems and tools to enable channel sales. The refresh was anchored by a state-of-the-art, mobile-friendly partner portal that gives partners direct access to sales tools, deal registrations and ready-made marketing campaigns. Another focus of the pogram evolution has been eLearning  a priority for Mills, since he joined the company in 2016. As such, the new program includes two new online, self-paced courses for technical and sales resources as well as an advanced, bootcamp-style course led by a FireMon instructor.



This year, we put the focus back on our partners, making it easier for them to bring more effective security management to their customers, said Mills. We wanted to remove barriers to working with FireMon, and Im happy to report that more than 200 partners around the world have leveraged the new systems and tools we rolled out last year. Previously Mills ran worldwide channel sales and operations for Blue Coat Systems. He also held leadership positions at Aerohive Networks, Websense and McAfee.

The executives on CRNs 2018 Channel Chiefs list stand out for their exceptional leadership, vision and commitment to the channel, said Robert Faletra, Executive Chairman of The Channel Company. These individuals deserve special recognition for their development and support of robust partner programs, innovative business strategy and significant contribution to the overall health of a vigorously growing channel. We applaud each Channel Chiefs impressive record of accomplishments and look forward to their future successes. The 2018 CRN Channel Chiefs list, including the 50 Most Influential Channel Chiefs, is featured online at www.crn.com/channelchiefs and will appear in the February 2018 issue of CRN. About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelco.com About FireMon The FireMon platform delivers continuous security for hybrid enterprises through a powerful fusion of vulnerability management, continuous compliance and orchestration. Since creating the first-ever network security management solution 15 years ago, FireMon solutions have continued to deliver visibility into and control over complex network security infrastructure, policies and risk to over 1,500 customers around the world. Using the FireMon platform, todays leading enterprise organizations, government agencies, and managed security providers have dramatically improved effectiveness of network defenses, accelerating business agility optimizing return on investment. For more information or a free 30-day trial, visit www.firemon.com. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

Contact Rachel Metzler Corporate Marketing Manager rachel.metzler@firemon.com

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Zimmerman Law Offices files Nationwide Class Action suit against Ulta Beauty for Repackaging and Reselling Used Beauty Products

Attorney Thomas Zimmerman, Jr. of the Chicago-based Zimmerman Law Offices filed a nationwide class action suit against Ulta Beauty, Inc. ("Ulta"). The suit alleges Ulta has a routine practice of repackaging and resealing beauty products that have previously been purchased, used and returned by Ulta's customers, before returning those used products to its shelves to be purchased by other consumers. The case, Meghan DeVries v. Ulta Beauty, Inc., was filed on February 8, 2018, in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois. The suit alleges that, for the past several years, managers at Ulta's retail stores throughout the nation are given a quota as to the number of returned items that can be deemed to be "damaged" and thrown away, and store managers would get lectured by Ulta's upper management if their stores were over the quota. The suit notes that Ulta received and responded to complaints from customers and employees regarding those practices, but it nevertheless continued its corporate policy and practice of surreptitiously reselling used beauty products. Used beauty products-such as mascara, foundation, and shampoo-were almost always placed back on the shelf since it is difficult to tell if they were used, according to the complaint. The suit further alleges that for beauty products that obviously and visibly appeared to be used, Ulta's employees were instructed to clean those beauty products with cotton swabs to make them look like new, and place them back on Ulta's store shelves for resale.



Consumers expect that beauty products are new and unused when purchased from retailers, because, by nature, used beauty products are unsanitary and unhygienic, and place people at a risk of contracting disease. Attorney Tom Zimmerman noted, "The lawsuit cites to an undercover investigation that found used beauty products at Ulta were contaminated with harmful bacteria, including E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, two types of bacteria normally found in the intestinal tract that are expelled with feces, such that people could literally be applying and smearing someone else's fecal matter directly onto their lips." Attorney Zimmerman continued, "The investigators also noted that used beauty products can contain the herpes simplex virus-which can survive on the surface of a lipstick tube for up to a week-as well as Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause very serious infections, boils and lesions, especially if you have an open cut on your skin or lips, or it gets in your eyes." The lead plaintiff represents all consumers throughout the United States impacted by Ulta's actions. The lawsuit seeks damages for the money consumers spent to purchase used beauty products from Ulta, and injunctive relief to force Ulta to stop repackaging used beauty products and reselling them as if they were new.

A copy of the complaint is available upon request. Attorney Tom Zimmerman will be available for interviews and the lead plaintiff may also be available to speak with the media on a limited basis. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212005974/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] Honeywell, The Code Corporation Reach Settlement On Patent Infringement Claims

FORT MILL, S.C., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Honeywell (NYSE: HON) today announced that it has reached a settlement with Code Corp., a company that manufactures bar code readers, to settle Honeywell's claims that Code infringed certain Honeywell patents related to bar code scanning technology. Under terms of the settlement, Code has agreed to make a significant lump sum payment to Honeywell to resolve Honeywell's claims and to pay an annual royalty to license certain Honeywell patents. Code also has agreed to redesign a portion of its products and not to revert back to certain designs of this products that were alleged to have violated Honeywell patents. In addition, Code will dismiss all claims it asserted against Honeywell. In 2017, Honeywell filed two patent infringement lawsuit against Code in federal courts for infringement of multiple patents related to Honeywell's bar code reading technology that makes bar code readers easier to use and operate faster and more accurately. Honeywell also filed a complaint asking the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to preclude Code from importing its products that were alleged to have infinged Honeywell's patents into the U.S. As part of the settlement, Honeywell will withdraw those legal actions.



"We are pleased to reach an agreement with Code to settle our claims of patent infringement," said Peter Howes, president of Honeywell's Productivity Products business. "Honeywell is committed to vigorously protecting its intellectual property." George Powell, President and CEO of Code Corp., said, "We acknowledge the value of Honeywell's patent portfolio relating to bar code scanning technology. Having access to this technology will benefit Code's customers."

Honeywell Safety and Productivity Solutions (SPS) provides products, software and connected solutions that improve productivity, workplace safety and asset performance for our customers across the globe. We deliver on this promise through industry-leading mobile devices, software, cloud technology and automation solutions, the broadest range of personal protective equipment and gas detection technology, and custom-engineered sensors, switches and controls. We also manufacture and sell a broad portfolio of footwear for work, play and outdoor activities, including XtraTuf and Muck Boot brand footwear. Honeywell (www.honeywell.com) is a Fortune 100 software-industrial company that delivers industry specific solutions that include aerospace and automotive products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes, and industry; and performance materials globally. Our technologies help everything from aircraft, cars, homes and buildings, manufacturing plants, supply chains, and workers become more connected to make our world smarter, safer, and more sustainable. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom. Contact:

Eric Krantz

803.835.8230

eric.krantz@honeywell.com View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/honeywell-the-code-corporation-reach-settlement-on-patent-infringement-claims-300597056.html SOURCE Honeywell

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][February 12, 2018] District of Columbia Confounds Opposition to its Transfer Pricing Strategy

DALLAS, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In a surprising decision, dissimilar to the previous ruling in Microsoft,1 a District of Columbia Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) denied three motions for summary judgment in an order dated January 26, 2018, finding that the transfer pricing method developed by Chainbridge Software LLC ("Chainbridge") was not arbitrary, capricious, or unreasonable. The ALJ's denial of the motions for summary decision concluded the District's Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) was justified in its implementation of this method. In their appeals of combined assessments totaling almost $4 million, three taxpayersHess Corporation, Exxon Mobil Corporation, and Shell Oil Companychallenged the transfer pricing analysis provided by Chainbridge, citing violation of Internal Revenue Code section 482 regulations. Those regulations prohibit grouping controlled (related-party) and uncontrolled (third party) entities, unless there is no alternative appropriate method. The analysis in the taxpayers' challenge was similar to the analysis that formed the foundation of the taxpayer's appeal in Microsoft. The decision in that case invalidated Chainbridge's transfer pricing method, with the ALJ determining the failure to separate Microsoft's controlled transactions from uncontrolled transactions, as required by section 482 regulations, to the extent possible, resulted in the transfer pricing analysis being "arbitrary, capricious, and unreasonable," thereby invalidating the audit method. In these assessments, the OTR maintained that Chainbridge considered the various methods available under thesection 482 regulations and concluded that the Comparable Profits Method (CPM) was appropriate. Instead of analyzing activities on a transaction level, CPM analyzes business profits at the entity level.



A status conference for these three related cases is scheduled for March 7, 2018, unless a settlement can be reached to avoid trial. 1 Microsoft v. Office of Tax and Revenue [No. 2010-OTR-00012 (5/1/12)].

About Ryan

Ryan, an award-winning global tax services and software provider, is the largest Firm in the world dedicated exclusively to business taxes. The Firm provides an integrated suite of federal, state, local, and international tax services on a multi-jurisdictional basis, including tax recovery, consulting, advocacy, compliance, and technology services. Ryan is a five-time recipient of the International Service Excellence Award from the Customer Service Institute of America (CSIA) for its commitment to world-class client service. Empowered by the dynamic myRyan work environment, which is widely recognized as the most innovative in the tax services industry, Ryan's multi-disciplinary team of more than 2,100 professionals and associates serves over 14,000 clients in more than 45 countries, including many of the world's most prominent Global 5000 companies. More information about Ryan can be found at ryan.com. "Ryan" and "Firm" refer to the global organizational network, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ryan International, each of which is a separate legal entity. TECHNICAL INFORMATION CONTACTS: Mark Nachbar

Principal

Ryan

630.515.0477

mark.nachbar@ryan.com Mary Bernard

Director

Ryan

401.272.3363

mary.bernard@ryan.com View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/district-of-columbia-confounds-opposition-to-its-transfer-pricing-strategy-300597265.html SOURCE Ryan

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP Notifies Investors of an Investigation Involving Possible Securities Fraud Violations by the Board of Directors of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

Levi & Korsinsky announces it has commenced an investigation of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws.

On August 5, 2016, Bristol-Myers revealed that its CheckMate-026 trial exploring the use of Opdivo (nivolumab) as monotherapy failed to meet its primary endpoint of progression-free survival. Following this news, Bristol-Myers stock fell 16% to close at $63.28 per share on August 5, 2016. Then on October 9, 2016, Bristol-Myers revealed the final primary analysis of CheckMate-026, and that the overall Opdivo survival was only 14.4 months compared to chemotherapy's 13.2 months. Following this news, Bristol-Myers stock dropped over 10%, to close at $49.81 per share on Otober 10, 2016. To obtain additional information, go to:







http://www.zlkdocs.com/BMY-Info-Request-Form-6459

or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. either via email at jlevi@levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212) 363-7500, toll-free: (877) 363-5972.

Levi & Korsinsky is a national firm with offices in New York, California, Connecticut and Washington D.C. The firm's attorneys have extensive expertise in prosecuting securities litigation involving financial fraud, representing investors throughout the nation in securities and shareholder lawsuits. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212006245/en/[February 12, 2018] Robins Kaplan LLP Represents Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in Legal Battle Against Opioid Industry

National trial firm Robins Kaplan LLP announced today that it has filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe against major manufacturers and distributors of opioids, alleging devastating public-health effects on Tribal communities. The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe has sued 24 opioid-industry defendants in the action, which seeks both damages and injunctive relief. The Robins Kaplan legal team includes Tim Purdon, former United States Attorney for North Dakota and Brendan Johnson, former United States Attorney for South Dakota. "The opioid epidemic has hit Indian County hard and the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation is no exception," said Purdon. The 102-page complaint filed in federal court today accuses the defendants of allegedly marketing prescription opioids in a manner that fraudulently concealed and minimized their addiction risk, and failing to comply with federal prescription drug laws intended to prevent the diversion of prescription opioids and prevent their abuse. It seeks relief for the defendants' alleged violation of federal RICO laws, deceptive trade practices, and fraudulent and negligent conduct. This is the second lawsuit filed by Robins Kaplan on behalf f American Indian Tribes against the major manufacturers and distributors of opioids. On January 9, 2018, the firm filed suit on behalf of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, and the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate against opioid manufacturers and distributors in the United States District Court for the District of South Dakota.



The complaint notes that American Indians suffer the highest per capita rate of opioid overdoses and that pregnant American Indian women are more than eight times more likely to be diagnosed with opioid dependency compared to the next highest demographic; in some communities, more than one in 10 pregnant American Indian women has a diagnosis of opioid dependency. "Standing Rock is the fourth Tribal Nation we have filed suit for against opioid manufacturers and distributors. These Tribal Sovereigns will have their voices heard as the national opioid litigation moves forward," added Johnson.

Johnson and Purdon serve as co-chairs of Robins Kaplan's American Indian Law and Policy Group. Tara Sutton, chair of the firm's Mass Tort Group and a member of its Executive Board, is also representing the plaintiffs. Sutton served as trial counsel in Robins Kaplan's landmark lawsuit that transformed the tobacco industry. The case that Robins Kaplan filed on behalf of Minnesota became the first state tobacco lawsuit to go to trial; it settled after trial for $6.6 billion. Defendants in the case include pharmaceutical manufacturers Purdue Pharma L.P., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., and Allergan PLC, and pharmaceutical distributors McKesson Corp., Cardinal Health Inc., and AmerisourceBergen Corp. The complaint against them was filed in the United States District Court for the District of North Dakota. About Robins Kaplan LLP Robins Kaplan is among the nation's premier trial law firms, with more than 220 lawyers located in Bismarck, N.D.; Boston; Los Angeles; Minneapolis; Naples, Fla; New York; Silicon Valley; and Sioux Falls, S.D. The firm litigates, mediates, and arbitrates high-stakes, complex disputes, repeatedly earning national recognition. Firm clients include-as both plaintiffs and defendants-numerous Fortune 500 corporations, emerging markets companies, entrepreneurs, and individuals. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180212006260/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] tmtpost      404 - Page Not Found

Sorry, this page was not found. Try visiting our homepage or using the search function in our menu.Without model numbers we can't check on the gear you need to connect.

The soundbar has an aux input. Doesn't help in this situation.

If the headphones are not bluetooth then you would need the matching transmitter that came with them. If you can find that you will need to split the optical audio output and connect one of the outputs to the soundbar and the other to an optical to analog converter which will connect to that transmitter (assuming that is doesn't have an optical input)..

Might be easier to just get bluetooth headphones if the TV has that built in. If you need to use both the soundbar and headphones at the same time that may be an issue. Check the owners manual. Maybe that's why the headphones, if they are bluetooth, won't pair with the TV. Try it without the optical output turned on."Employees at McDonald's restaurants in the metro will walk off the job, protesting for a $15 minimum wage. The demonstration is part of a nationwide protest for a livable wage."

The struggle for higher wages, unionization and better healthcare continues today at noon . . . Update . . .Deets . . .The strike is staring with McDonald's worker but invites supporters from throughout the workforce . . . Except, of course, the growing number of kiosk and robot workers replacing these often complaining laborers.Developing . . .Kansas City Transit Seeks To Better Connect Workers To Johnson County Jobs Employers in Johnson County, Kan., had a problem: lots of jobs, but no way to get their workers from Kansas City, Mo., to this mushrooming suburban job market. So transit authorities in both areas - along with some private companies - have cooked up a possible solution to the staffing problem.

Actually, better public transit options (via better bus) access is welcomed news for the metro economy overall but it never seems to happen. Here's hope that increased competition from the Internets will inspire and instruct local transit leaders to get serious about connecting workers to jobs with something more than press-release rhetoric . . .Bonnie Brown, Kansas' oldest working journalist, dies at 102 The news in downtown Protection this weekend was Bonnie Brown. Mrs. Brown - who many believe was Kansas' oldest newspaper columnist - was found dead Saturday morning in her apartment in a senior living complex. She had been suffering from a cold that turned into pneumonia, said her son, Rodney Brown.

Recognition of a journalistic legacy in the Sunflower State and just a reminder to take just a bit of joy in your work . . .If These Ladies Just Dined & Dashed . . . Why Would They Come Back???

The Weeping Doesn't Go Over Well . . . Tears Are Wasted On Applebee's

Racial Drama Is Bad For Biz . . . OR . . . Here's Another Reason Why The Mall Is Doomed Amid Retail Tough Times

To be fair, while this is open to legal debate and interpretation, generally in Missouri and so many other places throughout the Heartland businesses have the right to refuse service to anyone and they don't have to justify their decisions if there is no pattern of discrimination.

Tough times for commerce near the failing Independence Center Mall just got worse as a viral video has inspiredof people to angrily express their disdain for Applebee's.and their treatment of young women accused ofBut nowand this seems to be the outset of a national story.A few themes that need to be outlined . . .That's the question that keeps coming up and nobody has a good answer for it that isn't insulting, knee-jerk or just angry. Fact it, petty thieves aren't serial killers and they rarely return to the scene of the crime to garner glory. It's pretty obvious that this was nothing more than a ladies night out and, most likely, some untold drama with a server who had problems with the table for whatever reason.These are grown women and while getting the boot from any low-rent establishment is embarrassing, it's not the end of the world. The drama factor is high on this confrontation and, again, the Independence, MO officer deserves high praise for attempting to keep things calm & classy . . . Or at least as classy as they can be at the Applebee's near the Meth Town Mall.It'll be interesting to see how Applebee's responds given so much outright hateration and very little defense of their actions from anybody but the worst kind of trolls.However, these ladies looked about 3/4ths finished with their dinner as they were asked to leave . . . So the Applebee's had already made the decision to serve these customers before they were abruptly asked to leave by way of a police officer, management and security guards.All of this seems to indicate that there's a lot more to this tragic story of crying, chicken and social justice that has captivated local denizens of social media and tens of thousands across the nation.Developing . . .The ultimate trade show for the hotel and the wider food sector has managed to break its own visitor records

More than 100,000 professionals from the hospitality and foodservice industry have already visited the 13th HORECA 2018 during the three days of operation.

The ultimate trade show for the hotel and the wider food sector has managed to break its own visitor records. Specifically, even more businessmen passed through the trade shows doors compared to last year.

63% of visitors from provinces

HORECA 2018 visitor growth was not only quantitative but also qualitative, since, according to the organizers, so far 63 percent has come from the Greek provinces. In addition, it is worth noting that the hotel industry represented 29 percent of total visitors. There is common agreement among the majority of exhibitors that the first three days of HORECA 2018, the visitors were professionals interested in pursuing trade agreements.

Grand opening

Ms Elena Kountoura, Minister of Tourism, presided at the HORECA 2018 ribbon-cutting ceremony and stated that trade shows such as HORECA create added value for the Greek tourism product.

The Minister of Tourism wished the 13th iteration of the international trade show every success, while she explicitly referred to the contribution made by tourism to consolidating the economic reconstruction of the country (Greece). The grand opening of the exhibition was attended by all tourism institutions as well as representatives from the political and business elite. Mr Nikos Choudalakis, President & CEO of Forum SA, the HORECA organizing company, declared that the exponential development, the good reputation and visibility of the HORECA brand are no accident. They were motivated by our passion for the delivery of high level goals and our vision for constant progress and development. And while we feel proud for its success, at the same time, a strong sense of responsibility leads us to set our sights still higher.

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"It is good to say big words and refer to tourism as the locomotive of the economy, but this should also be translated into actions from the State through the creation of an environment which supports and not undermines the efforts of the hoteliers."

This was stressed by the President of the Chamber of Commerce of Greece, Mr. Alexandros Vassilikos, during his speech at the 7th General Assembly of the Hotel of the Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, which took place at the Metropolitan Expo, in the presence of Greek Tourism Minister Elena Kountoura, the leadership of important institutional and sectoral bodies as well as more than 950 hotel owners from all over Greece.

The President of the Hellenic Federation of Tourism noted that according to data, during the crisis the Greek hotel became the main engine of the economy and supported primary production contributing the most in order to meet the challenge of extroversion and the placement of quality local products in major international markets, with initiatives such as the "Greek Breakfast" Program.

Mr. Vassilikos also presented a Five Way Key Roadmap "that can truly" unlock "the developmental dynamics of a Greek hotel."

Starting with overtaxation, the President of the Union of Tourism and Tourism stressed: "The locomotive needs charcoal and rails to speed along. Everyone can imagine how much tourism and the Greek hotel could contribute if we delivered them from the current overtaxation regime, crowned by the residence tax. Regarding the latter, the position of all hoteliers, is clear and specific. It is damaging and must be abolished."

He added that a second key issue that urgently needs to be resolved is the unfair competition by short-term real estate leases.

"Greek tourism requires vision and programming. We are not going to achieve any qualitative goal of upgrading our product by subsidizing basements in Koukaki, and exempting them from residence tax ", Mr. Vassilikos argued.

As the third major problem for the sector, the President of the Hellenic Foreign Trade Board highlighted the issue of infrastructure, and made special mention of the hotel's relations with the banking system.

Finally, Mr. Vassilikos welcomed major foreign investments, but asked the Greek State not to ignore the existing local sector, which is the largest private sector in the country, since it invests significantly each year in upgrading its enterprises and provided services.

In conclusion, the Chairman of the Board of Directors referred to the five main pillars of action by the Hotel Chamber, namely administrative reorganization, strengthening of communication with its members, more efficient use of its institutional role as a consultant for the formulation of the national policy for the sector, to contributing, improving and enriching the Greek hotel product and opening up to society.

Especially for the latter Mr Vassilikos underlined: "Social contibution lies in the DNA of the Greek hotelier. We are proud of what we have done and continue to do. We can do even more and leave a positive social footprint."

Finally, Mr. Vassilikos pointed out that the new administration of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels will continue the best practices of the administration's former president Yiorgos Tsakiris who has been named honorary president.

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A Russian airliner carrying 71 passengers and crew crashed after vanishing from radar screens as it left the Moscow's Domodedovo airport for the Urals, media reports said.

All passengers and crew were killed, officials said. Emergency services are working at the scene.

The Saratov Airlines jet vanished minutes after take-off and crashed near the village of Argunovo, about 80km (50 miles) south-east of Moscow.

The Antonov An-148 was en route to the city of Orsk in the Ural mountains, near the border with Kazakhstan.

"Fragments of the An-148 plane and several bodies have been found near the village of Stepanovskoye," Russia's Emergencies ministry spokesman told Tass.

Radio contact with the plane was lost several minutes after the takeoff from Moscows Domodedovo airport, Russias Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) confirmed.

Among possible causes of the An-148 plane crash may be weather conditions, pilot's error or a technical malfunction, Tass said.Electronic Corporate Bond Trading at the Crossroads

The conversation in electronic corporate bond trading has shifted away from focusing strictly on liquidity to gathering data and analyzing relative bond pricing.

The Holy Grail in the marketplace is pre-trade transparency and its very hard to get that transparency, said James Switzer, head of credit trading at Alliance Bernstein speaking at Tabb Groups Fixed Income 2018 conference.

On the panel, buy-side traders debated whether more pre-trade transparency is needed to boost their activity on all-to-all electronic platforms, which allows buy-side traders, dealers and hedge funds to trade with one another. So the chicken and egg of data and trading is that the data really has got to come before the trading? asked Larry Tabb, founder and research chairman of TABB Group, who moderated the panel.

By grabbing this data from platforms and data providers, asset managers can see what percentage of flow is out there and have more confidence in routing orders to venues. At least thats the theory.

However, heads of fixed-income trading desks from major banks (Citi and JP Morgan Asset Management) on an earlier panel said that too much transparency could hurt the ability of banks to hedge their positions and get a decent return on capital. While broker dealers are mandated to report their corporate bond transactions to FINRAs TRACE system, there could be attempts to expand that transparency to pre-trade as with Europes MiFID II. The argument should be around the calibration of that transparency, said Brian Archer, managing director and head of credit trading at Citi, noting that clients need enough time to enter their positions.

In terms of e-trading adoption, the buy side suggested that pre-trade transparency and automation of small trades are driving their decisions.

I believe its about efficiency first, liquidity will follow, said Switzer on the Evolving Nature of Execution panel.

Efficiently consuming information that is coming into the firm and creating technology around that is really part of our DNA now and that is how we process it, said Switzer, referring to a bond software package that he co-developed in 2015.

In 2015, AllianceBernstein began using Automated Liquidity Filtering & Analytics, or ALFA, to monitor electronic trading venues and alert users when there is activity on the bonds they want to buy or sell.

Instead of looking at multiple screens, Switzer said the firm is utilizing ALFA to aggregate information from electronic trading platforms, whether it be MarketAxess, Tradeweb, Liquidnet among others, or utilities such as Symphony and Project Neptune.

Demand for more fixed income data and analytics is a reflection of the evolving market structure, and how the buy side is adapting to technology.

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Search News Archive : Fast Travel News Promotion Via Search, Social Media + Email Follow Us On : 2018 SAFARI HOTSPOTS & NEW TOURS FROM ACACIA AFRICA Industry: Safari

Acacia Africa lanches new tours and deals for 2018



(TRAVPR.COM) UK - February 9th, 2018 - Looking to book your dream safari? Acacia Africa have lined up a list of travel hotspots, deals and exciting new tours for the year ahead. SOUTH AFRICA Over the next twelve months, South Africas Eastern Cape will be a safari hotspot, with travellers expected to make the pilgrimage to Mandelas home province, to mark what would have been his 100th birthday. Events linked to Nelson Mandela Centenary 2018: Be the Legacy will be held in South Africa and London, UK (a Nelson Mandela Exhibition running for a fortnight around his birthday in July), and a statue honouring the former president will be unveiled in Glasgow. Its bragging rights assured, after landing a much coveted spot on Lonely Planets top 10 Best Countries To Visit In 2018, theres even more reason to visit South Africa, as the Otter Trail (the countrys oldest hiking trail) will also celebrate its 50th anniversary this year. Book the 19 day Kruger to Cape Town, the overland tour ending in South Africas, Mother City. Cape Town is the jumping off point for Robben Island (where Mandela served 18 years of his 27 year sentence) and the perfect place to feel the Madiba buzz post your Big 5 safari. The trip also skirts the Eastern Cape, with stops in the Mountain Zebra National Park, the Addo Elephant Park and Tsitsikamma where you can experience a taster of the countrys oldest hiking spot in a single afternoon - the complete Otter Trail a more serious five day trek. Book before 28 February and SAVE 20% (219pp) from 876pp (no single supplement) + Adventure Pass from 190pp including transport, camping accommodation, most meals and services of a tour leader/driver. Excludes return flight. Offer valid on 14 and 28 March departures. Starts Johannesburg - ends Cape Town. Full tour price before discount 1,095pp. LESOTHO & SWAZILAND This year we wont just be looking to make more meaningful connections when we travel, well be opting for mind-altering experiences which allow for a deeper sense of introspection. Transformational travel is expected to be one of the biggest trends of 2018, Lesotho and Swaziland excelling when it comes to fusing cultural heritage, remote backdrops and local community tourism to create life changing holidays. Relatively undiscovered, both kingdoms are ideal for adventurers concerned about over-tourism, Lesotho recently securing a place on CNNs list of places that deserve more travellers. Slowly creeping up the popularity polls, Acacia Africa reported a ten fold increase in bookings for its camping overland tours going via Swaziland and Lesotho in 2017, since launching tours to the destinations mid 2016. The 46 day Southern Africa Explorer overland itinerary includes a village visit to meet local shepherds near the Sani Pass (the gateway to Lesotho) and seasonal opportunities to participate in sheep shearing; an optional horse riding trek with the Basotho Herdsmen to the Botsoela Waterfall in Malealea (an impressive insta-worthy site), mountain bike safaris in Swazilands Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and an Umphakatsi Cultural Experience with a Swazi village chief near the royal enclosure. A great year to visit the Kingdom of Swaziland - King Mswati III will celebrate his 50th birthday and the country will mark its 50th year of independence in 2018. Book before 28 February and SAVE 20% (539pp): From only 2,156pp (no single supplement) + Adventure Pass 640pp. The price includes transport, camping accommodation, most meals and services of a tour leader/driver. Excludes return flight. Offer valid on 14 and 28 March departures. Starts Johannesburg - ends Johannesburg. Full tour price before discount 2,695pp. MOZAMBIQUE This year, Mozambiques Bazaruto National Park will be getting an eco-overhaul, the conservation NGO, African Parks (of which Prince Harry is now officially president, the NGO managing more than a dozen protected areas in eight other countries on the continent), signing an agreement to take over the management of the park for 25 years. Their emphasis will be on creating a conservation-led economy where eco-initiatives benefit local communities. A celebrated dive location, flipper up responsibly on the 14 day Mozambique & Zimbabwe Explorer, the itinerary making stops at Tofo, Vilanculos (gateway to the Bazaruto archipelago) and Xai-Xai. From 1,635pp (no single supplement) + Adventure Pass 150pp. The price includes transport, camping accommodation, most meals and services of a tour leader/driver. Excludes return flight. March to December departures. Starts Johannesburg - ends Victoria Falls. BOTSWANA Botswana is in the running to be the choice honeymoon destination for this years most talked about royal couple. Prince Harry and Megan Markle visited twice in the past year and the centre stone on Markles engagement ring was sourced direct from the Gem of Africa. The couple are both firm fans of Africas last wetland wilderness, and a possible honeymoon in the Okavango could see the deltas popularity sky rocket. More of a real steal than royal, Acacia Africas prices make Botswana a bargain. Book the NEW nine day Okavango Wilderness Trail, the small group safari including two days in the delta with mokoro safaris by day and under the setting sun. Game drives in the Khama Rhino Sanctuary and Chobe National Park also feature along with a visit to the Victoria Falls and sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. From 875pp (no single supplement) + Safari Pass 730pp including transport, accommodation (seven nights twin share rooms with en-suite facilities, one night twin share pre-erected tent with en-suite facilities), most meals and services of a tour leader/driver. Excludes return flight. Year round departures. Starts Victoria Falls - ends Johannesburg. UGANDA According to Acacia Africa, interest in gorilla viewing is at an all time high. Nat Geos three part documentary "Secrets In The Mist which aired in December, was made in honour of the 50th anniversary of Dian Fosseys work, and this year marks the 30th anniversary of Gorillas In The Mist, the 1988 biopic starring Sigourney Weaver. With permits in short supply, Acacia suggest booking early as places for this activity are limited for reasons of conservation, and even earlier if youre considering travel to Ugandas Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - permits for Uganda currently half the price of those in neighbouring Rwanda. Book the NEW nine day Troop To The Gorillas the overland itinerary including gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, chimp trekking in the Queen Elizabeth National Park and optional white water rafting and volunteering at Jinja. From 775pp no single supplement + gorilla & chimp permit from 555pp including transport, camping accommodation, most meals, and services of a tour leader/driver. Excludes return flight. Year round departures. Starts Kampala - ends Kampala. KENYA The world still follows the former president on his travels and with the Obamas rumoured to be heading to Nairobi, interest in Africas Wildlife Capital could well surge. Sources say the former president might be planning a June trip, his proposed itinerary including a visit to the African Heritage House, the Pan-African art museum home to American designer and architect, Alan Donovan. Once described as the most photographed house in Africa," Donovans residence is only a 20 minute drive from the centre of Nairobi. Book the NEW three day Nairobi Park Stay, the itinerary including a game drive in Nairobi National Park, Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage visit, return airport transfers, all food and drink and twin share ensuite accommodation at a tented camp (inside Nairobi National Park). From 740pp (two sharing). Excludes return flight. Daily departures. A smart and sustainable move, Kenya recently brought in the worlds toughest ban on plastic bags. Ditch your duty free bags too, as they wont make it past passport control, and add some canvas carriers to your backpack. ZIMBABWE Even before the recent political transformations, Zimbabwe was attracting a growing number of travellers, but in the post Mugabe era, its popularity is soaring to new heights. Offering spectacular safaris, the countrys Hwange National Park is home to an estimated 50,000 elephants, many of which are in breeding herds as large as 300. Add in 100 different kinds of mammals (including the endangered wild dog) and around 500 bird species, plus little competition for vantage points, and its a no brainer for anyone with an African safari on their bucket list. Book the seven day Southern Africa Safari, the small group safari including game drives in Hwange National Park, a walking safari in Matobo National Park and a visit to the Victoria Falls. From 665pp (no single supplement) + Safari Pass 480pp including transport, camping accommodation, most meals and services of a tour leader/driver. Excludes return flight. Year round departures. Starts Victoria Falls - ends Victoria Falls. -ends- Unless otherwise stated all of the above tours operate year round. Acacia Africas Camping and Accommodated Overland tours are strictly targeted at travellers aged 18-39 years. The tour operators small group safaris are open to travellers from eight years, as are many of Acacias Short Safaris & Treks and City Breaks & Short Stays including the NEW three day Nairobi Park Stay. Acacia Africa (020 7706 4700). SATSA membership No. 1931, Atta membership no. 20151, ATOL No. 6499 and ABTA No. W4093 PROTECTED. ### Please contact the person or company listed above for information regarding the content of this press release. TravPR.com are not the issuers of this press release and are not responsible for the accuracy of the content. Share Release :



CONTACT INFORMATION Name: Sam Ward Company: Acacia Africa Phone: 020 7706 4700 Email: mseven7studio@gmail.com Web: PRESS RELEASE TAGSNepal sampler tour includes trek, rafting jungle safari with luxury accommodation.



(TRAVPR.COM) BAGMATI - February 11th, 2018 - I Tour Nepal a leading touring and trekking company for the Himalayas of Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan, launched Nepal Sampler Tour to provide safe and rewarding Himalayan adventures of trekking , rafting and jungle safari based on luxury or deluxe accommodation.

Speaking with local travel newspaper, Ms Kopila Sen, CEO of iTourNepal said, The Nepal sampler tour is soft adventure holiday in Nepal that allows tourists to go beyond city limits and enjoy the Himalayan trekking, rafting and jungle safari without compromising their need of luxury. Thought of Himalayan treks and White water rafting make many tourists nervous as those activities compromised with accommodation and thought too wild and strenuous. We brought gentle hiking in the Himalayan foothills and the fun river drifting with luxury accommodation and topnotch service and safety. Now trekking and rafting in the Himalayas are for everyone.

Commenting on the Nepal sampler tour, Pawan Shrestha  Sales Manager said, Our clients are very excited about the tour and we already have some bookings and many inquiries. Clients who have been to Nepal earlier on softer driving and flying tours are willing to come and do more than cultural sightseeing and seeing the Himalayas from a distance. This tour is an opportunity to get the true insight of the countryside lifestyle, culture and nature with soft adventures customized to suite level of clients fitness and interest. Moreover the luxurious accommodation in the pristine nature is relaxing after the days effort.

About iTourNepal P Ltd.

iTourNepal P Ltd is sustainable Himalayan tour and trek operator based in Nepal. The company is specialized in Himalayan tours of Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. The company priorities sustainable practices by promoting local products, employment and using accommodation that have adopted local culture and architecture in its design. Tours and treks provided by the company are environmentally safe, culturally rewarding and economically viable. There are also choices of activities spending time volunteering, learning local art and crafts or visiting farms.

###

Search News Archive : Fast Travel News Promotion Via Search, Social Media + Email Follow Us On : HOST WEDDING OF YOUR DREAM WITH CORP AMMAN HOTEL F&B PACKAGE Industry: Hotels

The Corp Amman Hotel has launched remarkable Winter Wedding Package enticing all those who wish to host grand ceremonies



(TRAVPR.COM) UAE - February 12th, 2018 - The Corp Amman Hotel has launched remarkable Winter Wedding Package enticing all those who wish to host grand ceremonies to solemnize their weddings at this prestigious location without being overly-expensive.



Nizam Bou Antoun, General Manager of Corp Amman Hotel, said that with a perfect blend of sophistication and extravagance the Corp Amman Hotel has become the perfect place to host wedding receptions in Amman, the most sought-after wedding destinations in the region. He stressed that the hotels hospitality team is well-aware of the fact that a wedding reception is extremely important occasion for the couple who is going to tie the knot in style. Thus they do everything possible to make it a truly joyful celebration of the couples dream.



He said, Indeed, the bride, her dress and her make-up remain the center of attraction at a wedding ceremony. But the guests pay equal attention to the venue, decor, hospitality and how generous the buffet is. While designing this package, we considered all these aspects so that you celebrate the nuptial with complete peace of mind.



Valid from February until June 2018, the F&B package allows you to celebrate the marriage with up to 200 guests serving them light refreshment for JD 3,500. If you prefer a fun and relaxing reception where guests serve themselves from a variety of food offerings, select the second option that allows you to host 200 guests over buffet (lunch or dinner) for JD 4,500.



The package also entitles you to avail the services of an expert wedding planner to bring your wedding ideas to life. He will not only ensure that your wedding party runs without any hiccups, but also diminishes all sorts of stress surrounding the ceremony.



About Corp Amman Hotel



Corp Amman Hotel is a 4-star property featuring 108 elegantly appointed rooms and suites equipped with the finest facilities. Designed to be one of the citys prestigious addresses, the hotel boasts three multi-functional meeting rooms and a spectacular ballroom equipped with the latest technology and facilities. Diners too have an excellent choice of restaurants with the hotels culinary team offering an extensive selection of regional and international flavors. One may opt for all-day-dining restaurant The Boulevard or the roof-top Lebanese restaurant Mood. Snug lobby lounge is ideal for tasty nibbles and refreshing cold and hot drinks. For relaxation, the hotel offers a trendy fitness center Orange where you can enjoy an invigorating workout followed by a pampering soak in the temperature controlled outdoor swimming pool or indulge in tranquil spa treatments.



For more information about the hotel please visit www.hmhhotelgroup.com/corpamman

Or https://www.hmhhotelgroup.com/subscribenow



For media contact:



Ismail Madi

Managing Director

MPJ - Marketing Pro-Junction

P.O Box 213443, Dubai - UAE

Mob: +971 556130351

Tel : +971 4 4387007

Fax : +971 4 4387008

i.madi@mpj-pr.com

http://www.mpj-pr.com ### Please contact the person or company listed above for information regarding the content of this press release. TravPR.com are not the issuers of this press release and are not responsible for the accuracy of the content. Share Release :



CONTACT INFORMATION Name: Ismail Madi Company: Marketing Pro Junction Phone: +971 55 613 0351 Email: pressrelease@mpj-pr.com Web: PRESS RELEASE TAGSDublin, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Growth Opportunities in the Global Prepreg Market" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global prepreg market is expected to reach an estimated $5.9 billion by 2022 and is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2017 to 2022.

The future of the prepreg market looks attractive with opportunities in the commercial aerospace, military/defense, general aviation, space/satellite, sporting goods, marine, wind energy, automotive, and civil engineering industries. The major drivers for market growth are growing demand for advanced high performance and lightweight composite materials and increasing performance requirements in the end use industries.



The growing use of high performance composite materials in the end use industries is likely to drive the consumption of epoxy based prepreg over the forecast period. By manufacturing technology, hot melt is expected to remain the largest segment over the forecast period.



It is forcast that the commercial aerospace is expected to remain the largest segment by value and wind energy by volume. Commercial aerospace is expected to witness the highest growth in the forecast period supported by the growth in the development and production of advanced aircraft models and increasing use of lightweight high-performance composites in new aircraft programs, such as Boeing 787, Airbus A350.



By resin type, thermoset prepreg is expected to remain the largest segment due to its demand in wind turbine blades and aerospace components.



North America is expected to remain the largest market by value and volume. Rest of the World is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period because of growth in the demand for aerospace and wind energy industries.



Some of the features of Prepreg Market Report: Trends, Forecast and Competitive Analysis include:

Market size estimates: Global prepreg market size estimation in terms of value ($M) and volume (M Lbs.) shipment.

Trend and forecast analysis: Market trend (2011-2016) and forecast (2017-2022) by segments and region.

Segmentation analysis: Global prepreg market size by various applications such as end use industry, weave type, manufacturing technology, type of prepreg, reinforcement, and resin in terms of value and volume shipment.

Regional analysis: Global prepreg market breakdown by North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World.

Growth opportunities: Analysis on growth opportunities in different applications and regions of prepreg in the global prepreg market.

Strategic analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of prepreg in the global prepreg market.

Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter's Five Forces model.

Key Topics Covered:



1. Executive Summary



2. Market Background and Classifications

2.1: Introduction, Background, and Classifications

2.2: Supply Chain

2.3: Industry Drivers and Challenges



3. Market Trends and Forecast Analysis from 2011 to 2022

3.1: Macroeconomic Trends and Forecast

3.2: Global Prepreg Market Trends and Forecast

3.3: Global Prepreg Market by End Use Industry

3.3.1: Commercial Aerospace

3.3.2: Military/ Defense

3.3.3: General Aviation

3.3.4: Space/Satellite

3.3.5: Sporting Goods

3.3.6: Marine

3.3.7: Wind Energy

3.3.8: Automotive

3.3.9: Civil Engineering

3.3.10: Others

3.4: Global Prepreg Market by Weave Type

3.4.1: Fabric Prepreg

3.4.2: Unidirectional Prepreg

3.5: Global Prepreg Market by Manufacturing Technology

3.5.1: Hot melt

3.5.2: Solvent Dip

3.6: Global Prepreg Market by Type of Prepreg

3.6.1: Thermoset Prepreg

3.6.2: Thermoplastic Prepreg

3.7: Global Prepreg Market by Reinforcement

3.7.1: Carbon fiber

3.7.2: Glass fiber

3.7.3: Aramid fiber

3.8: Global Prepreg Market by Resin

3.8.1: Epoxy Prepreg

3.8.2: BMI Prepreg

3.8.3: Phenolic Prepreg

3.8.4: Cyanate Easter

3.8.5: Thermoplastic Prepreg



4. Market Trends and Forecast Analysis by Region

4.1: Global Prepreg Market by Region

4.2: North American Prepreg Market

4.3: European Prepreg Market

4.4: APAC Prepreg Market

4.5: ROW Prepreg Market



5. Competitor Analysis

5.1: Product Portfolio Analysis

5.2: Market Share Analysis

5.3: Operational Integration

5.4: Geographical Reach

5.5: Porter's Five Forces Analysis



6. Growth Opportunities and Strategic Analysis

6.1: Growth Opportunities Analysis

6.1.1: Growth Opportunities for Global Prepreg Market by End Use Industry

6.1.2: Growth Opportunities for Global Prepreg Market by Region

6.1.3: Growth Opportunities for the Global Prepreg Market by Type of Prepreg

6.1.4: Growth Opportunities for Global Prepreg Market by Resin Type

6.1.5: Growth Opportunities for Global Prepreg Market by Reinforcement Type

6.1.6: Innovations in the Global Prepreg Industry

6.2: Emerging Trends in Prepreg Industry

6.3: Strategic Analysis

6.3.1: New Product Development

6.3.2: Capacity Expansion in Prepreg Industry

6.3.3; Mergers, Acquisitions and Joint Ventures in Prepreg Industry

6.3.4: Certification and Licensing



7. Company Profiles of Leading Players

7.1: Hexcel Corporation

7.2: Cytec Solvay Group

7.3: Gurit

7.4: Toray Industries Inc.

7.5: TenCate Advanced Composites

7.6: SGL

7.7: Mitsubishi Rayon

7.8: Toho Tenax



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/dgw2q4/growth?w=12



editorial@tribune.com

Tarn Taran: The Patti Sadar police have arrested Harpreet Singh of Bhagupur village and seized 40 kg of lahan. Later, 13,500 ml of illicit liquor was recovered from his possession. He has been booked under Sections 61, 1 and 14 of the Excise Act, the police said. Meanwhile, members of a Special Task Force (STF), led by ASI Jaspal Singh, recovered five kg of poppy husk from Yadwinder Singh, a resident of Kotjaspat village. A case under Sections 15, 61 and 85 of the NDPS Act has been registered against the accused. OC

Travel agents booked for fraud

A travel agent couple has been booked for allegedly defrauding a local resident. The accused, Roshan Lal and his wife Simran, alias Menka Saneer, are residents of Gakhlan village in Jalandhar district. They reportedly took Rs 6.7 lakh from Dilbag Singh, a resident of Jauhal Raju Singh, for facilitating his sons immigration to Australia. Dilbag Singh said the accused gave his son fake work permit, air ticket and other documents. The matter was investigated by DSP (Investigation) Ashwani Kumar following which the case was registered under Sections 420 and 120-B of the IPC. OC

Mount Litera Zees function

Amritsar: Mount Litera Zee School organised its annual function on Saturday. MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla was the chief guest District Education Officer (DEO) Sunita Kiran was the guest of honour. School director Manjot Dhillion presented the annual report enumerating the scholastic and co-scholastic achievements of the school. A cultural programme was also held. The play titled Beauty and the Beast was also presented by students. Gurjeet Singh Aujla appreciated the students, teachers and management for organising the programme. TNSROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 10

As many as 14 cancer survivor women were honoured while 10 children, including a child who underwent radiology in the morning, performed during the Cancer Survivors Day celebrations at the Post Graduate Government College for Girls in Sector 42, here, today.

Prof AK Grover, Vice-Chancellor, Panjab University, presided over the function. The programme was organised by Sahayta Charitable Welfare Society.

President of society Renu Saigal, who was diagnosed with blood cancer in 1996 and managed to survive, introduced other cancer survivors.

Sonia, who was detected with blood cancer in 2013, said: You dont know how strong you are until you go through it. One has to be mentally strong to overcome such a disease.

Roshni, a breast cancer survivor of 2017, said timely detection was really important to overcome cancer.

Dr Paramjeet Kaur, who suffered with blood cancer and later in 2015 diagnosed with breast cancer, said it was the urge to

live that helped her overcome cancer not just

once but twice.

Daman Mangat, who suffered from cervix cancer in 1996, while recounting the moments said initially it jolted her completely.

I thought it was the end of the road. Then I joined the society and met many women who were courageously fighting with the disease. It gave me strength to fight and finally I managed to conquer it, she said.

Nearly 10 children who are battling with cancer also performed during the occasion.

Sneha, who had undergone a radiology test in the morning, said she was excited about performing in front of the audience.

Madhu Nagpal said the society was helping needy parents whose children were undergoing treatment cancer at the Advance Paediatric Centre of the PGI.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Mohali, February 12

The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has imposed a fine of Rs 10 lakh on Fortis Hospital at Phase 8 here for violation of the Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016.

The hospital has been directed to deposit the fine in the account of the Environmental Engineer, PPCB, immediately.

Kahan Singh Pannu, Chairman of the PPCB, also ordered the hospital authorities to suspend their housekeeping in-charge, Rajesh Sharma, and take suitable action against him after an inquiry.

The order stated that his (Rajesh Sharma) conduct should also be probed and if his connivance with the contractor, Karan (responsible for lifting of the waste), was established in the pilferage of bio-medical waste, an FIR should also be lodged against him for negligence in the disposal of waste.

The Chairman also directed termination of the contract of Karan and an lodging of an FIR against him.

The hospital shall deposit a bank guarantee of Rs 25 lakh with the PPCB as an assurance to ensure compliance of the rules, the order stated.

The PPCB also directed the hospital to appoint a qualified officer as the in-charge of bio-medical waste, who should get training from the PPCB, and install CCTV cameras in the bio-medical waste and general waste-collection area within seven days to check pilferage of waste from the hospital in the future. The hospital has also been asked to conduct sampling of ETP-cum-STP from the Punjab Bio-Technology Incubator, Mohali, and submit a report to the PPCB. On February 2, a team of the PPCB had seized three pickup trucks, carrying nearly 1,000 kg of biomedical waste of Fortis Hospital, Mohali. The trucks were heading for a scrap yard in Dadu Majra. Later, a raid was conducted at the scrap yard from where segregated biomedical waste was recovered. The PPCB team had initiated an investigation against four persons  three pickup truck drivers and the scrap dealer  and the hospital.ATLANTA - February 12, 2018 - Acuity Brands, Inc. (NYSE: AYI) today announced it has acquired Lucid Design Group, Inc. (Lucid), an Oakland, CA-based provider of building analytics through its industry-leading BuildingOS business intelligence platform. The Company believes the combination of Lucid's BuildingOS platform and Acuity Brands' large installed base of networked sensors for lighting and building automation controls and its Atrius(TM) Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem will provide the industry's most comprehensive building operations and analytics platform, enabling customers to have unparalleled insights about their energy use and other building operations.

Lucid provides a data and analytics platform to make data-driven decisions to improve building efficiency and drive energy conservation and savings. Its SaaS-based BuildingOS platform enables owners, operators, and occupants to gain powerful insights into the operations of their buildings, providing the ability to make them more efficient and improve the performance of the people and businesses utilizing these strategic assets.

"Lucid's technology will allow us to extend the power of our digital networked lighting, building management and IoT solutions," said Laurent J. Vernerey, President of the Acuity Technology Group and Executive Vice President of Acuity Brands, Inc. "The Lucid acquisition supports our strategy of further unlocking the value of Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities within buildings by connecting advanced sensory network solutions with the broader integrated building data required to drive better operational and business performance."

BuildingOS will remain an independent and open platform focused on integrating any data source associated with a building, from modern digital lighting networks to legacy systems and operations data. Lucid has built integrations into over 180 different building data systems and services, including systems tracking utility data, building automation systems, work order systems, and property management solutions. The platform will continue to be data source agnostic and focus on the power of analytics applied to integrated data streams.

"We are excited by the opportunity to leverage Acuity Brands' broad IoT and control capabilities to deliver a more complete solution to our customers," said Will Coleman, CEO, Lucid Design Group, Inc. "Buildings are being transformed by data and intelligent systems in the same way as every other industry, helping to address and manage unnecessary costs, lost revenue, and productivity deficiencies. Combining the intelligence Lucid's BuildingOS platform will provide with Acuity Brands' digital lighting-based sensory networks and Atrius software platform will help customers unlock the value of the expanding IoT landscape within buildings."

BuildingOS has been adopted by more than 500 customers and provides analytics for more than 15,000 buildings. It empowers over 12,000 energy and sustainability management professionals in maximizing energy efficiency while improving occupant satisfaction within their buildings.

The acquisition of Lucid is not expected to have a material impact on the fiscal 2018 consolidated financial performance of Acuity Brands. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

About Acuity Brands

Acuity Brands, Inc. (NYSE: AYI) is the North American market leader and one of the world's leading providers of lighting and building management solutions. With fiscal year 2017 net sales of $3.5 billion, Acuity Brands currently employs over 12,000 associates and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia with operations throughout North America, and in Europe and Asia. The Company's products and solutions are sold under various brands, including Lithonia Lighting, Holophane, Peerless, Gotham, Mark Architectural Lighting(TM), Winona Lighting, Juno, Indy(TM), Aculux, Healthcare Lighting, Hydrel, American Electric Lighting, Carandini, Antique Street Lamps(TM), Sunoptics, Distech Controls, nLight, ROAM, Sensor Switch and Atrius(TM). Visit us at www.acuitybrands.com.

Forward Looking Information

This release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that may be considered forward-looking include statements incorporating terms such as "expects," "believes," "intends," "estimates", "forecasts," "anticipates," "could," "may," "should", "suggests," "remain," and similar terms that relate to future events, performance, or results of the Company and specifically include statements made in this press release regarding Lucid's technology allowing Acuity Brands to extend the power of it digital networked lighting, building management and IoT solutions, and the expectation that the acquisition of Lucid will not have a material impact on the fiscal 2018 consolidated financial performance of Acuity Brands. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the historical experience of Acuity Brands and management's present expectations or projections. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, customer and supplier relationships and prices; competition; ability to realize anticipated benefits from initiatives taken and timing of benefits; market demand; litigation and other contingent liabilities; and economic, political, governmental, and technological factors affecting the Company. Please see the other risk factors more fully described in the Company's SEC filings including risks discussed in Part I, "Item 1a. Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2017. The discussion of those risks is specifically incorporated herein by reference. Management believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable; however, undue reliance should not be placed on any forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations. Further, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and management undertakes no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events.

# # #

Media Contact:

Neil Egan

770-860-2957

Email: neil.egan@acuitybrands.comeditorial@tribune.com

Our Correspondent

Kharar, February 12

Samarth Sachdeva, a 10-year-old boy from Kharar, was killed while three others, including his sister, were seriously injured when their school bus collided with a speeding bus on the Chandigarh-Ludhiana highway near Bhagomajra village, close to Kharar, this morning.

One of the injured children, Arav (9), a resident of Kharar, has been referred to the PGI where his condition is stated to be critical. Six other students, the school bus driver and a woman attendant, however, escaped with minor bruises.

The accident took place around 7.10 am when a bus from St Josephs Senior Secondary School, Sector 44, Chandigarh, which was on its way to pick up students from JBP Township near here, collided head-on with a speeding Punjab Roadways bus (PB 10 BM 9821), coming from the Ludhiana side.

Dharminder Sharma, driver of the school bus (PB 65 AA 1499), said he had gone to pick up students from the Kharar area along with a woman attendant, Reena Rani. There were 10 students in the bus when it met with the accident.

While Samarth died on the spot, another student, Arav, and two others  deceaseds sister Khwaish Sachdeva (13) and Ayushi Rana (9)  sustained injuries. The injured were rushed to the Kharar Civil Hospital from where Arav was referred to the PGI.

The Punjab Roadways bus driver, Balbir Singh, fled the spot. The police have registered a case under Sections 279, 304-A, 337 and 338 of the IPC against Balbir.

A pall of gloom descended on Samarths house as soon as the news of his death reached. Ram Pal Sachdeva, father of the deceased, who resides in Green Enclave near the grain market in Kharar, said Samarth, a Class IV student at St Josephs Senior Secondary School, Sector 44, Chandigarh, along with his sister Khwaish Sachdeva (13), a student of Class VII in the same school, boarded the school bus as usual this morning. We didnt know that our son was leaving home forever, the wailing parents of the deceased said.

Mishap took place at 7.10 am

The accident took place around 7.10 am when a bus from St Josephs Senior Secondary School, Sector 44, Chandigarh, which was on its way to pick up students from JBP Township near Kharar, collided head-on with a speeding Punjab Roadways bus (PB 10 BM 9821), coming from the Ludhiana side.Jayshree Sengupta

Jayshree Sengupta

AN interesting fact has come to light in the latest Economic Survey about Indias son meta preference. The thesis behind it is that Indian parents do not adopt fertility stopping rules until the desired number of sons is born. This son meta preference, according to the Survey, leads naturally to the notional category of unwanted girls which is estimated at over 21 million. This is reflected in the fact that the sex ratio of the last child (SRLC) born to Indian families is extremely skewed as compared to other countries with similar levels of development. In India, the SRLC is around 9.5 per cent worse than other countries showing a clear bias against females, and more so in Gujarat, Punjab, and Rajasthan where the SRLC is 2,100 boys to every 1,000 girls. The worst is the case of Haryana where it is 2,300 boys to 1,000 girls.

This phenomenon is unrelated to the development of the country. Even when India is experiencing high GDP growth, the quest for sons remains the same. It cuts across religious and class barriers and it seems that all want sons. Sex selective abortions and differential survival of girls has led to skewed sex ratio of 943 females per 1,000 males. According to the Survey, due to sex selective abortions alone, there are an estimated 63 million missing women from Indias population and two million more are missing from every age group, every year, due to abortions, neglect, disease and malnutrition of girls. In Punjab and Haryana, two of the richest states, sex ratio among infants to 6-year-olds is 1,200 boys to 1,000 girls.

Of course, preference for sons is universal, and especially in China, where until recently, only one child was allowed and parents often opted to abort girls and have sons. In India, even when more women are educated and are employed than 10 years ago, they still do not have control over their earnings and child birth. More women tend to quit their jobs after marriage and child birth which is one of the reasons why the participation of women in labour force has fallen from 36 per cent 10 years ago to 24 per cent in 2015-16. It is also our society which is responsible for the low status of women because parents feel they cannot expect much from girls once they are married and go off to live in the husbands house. Hence, the investment on girls is minimised, which means lower quality of education and nutrition. On the other hand, clandestine dowry giving is still a common practice and parents have to satisfy the greed of the inlaws.

Surprisingly, patriarchy is perpetuated by the older women of the joint family household in order to maintain tradition and preserve the male lineage. The mother-in-law usually shows her discontent when the daughter-in-law produces a daughter who acquiesces to the demand and has more children till a son is born. Only 47 per cent women use any contraception, out of which only 32.8 per cent use reverse contraception, and because not many women use such methods they have little control over when they start having children, but only seem to have control over when they stop having children. Women themselves may choose to have more children till a son is born in order to have more power in decision making in the household, because unless she is the mother of a son, she remains meek and ignored.

Indias law of inheritance, by which a girl has an equal share is circumvented by various means by parents. It also acts against their wanting girls whereby the family property gets divided. Sons are supposed to be an insurance against old age and illness and they are required to perform the last rites among Hindus.

Bringing up a girl child to a marriageable age is also an onerous task for parents even in the 21st century because she has to be protected from molestation and rape. The dropout rate for girls is much higher in schools than for boys. Travelling to schools that are far from home and which have no separate toilets for girls are causes for withdrawal of girls from schools. Girls are made to help in the household and look after the siblings.

Even when the girl is an adult, she is not entirely safe when there is growing crime against women in cities, and parents have to be responsible for her protection. In all, parents view girls as a burden and are often openly partial to boys giving them better healthcare, education and freedom.

Can education help? Education does create awareness of womens rights and methods of contraception and increases womens income earning capacity which, indeed, makes a difference. They are able to assert themselves more when they bring home money. Working women shed many taboos and are not so much under the control of the husband and family. She can often make decision in important matters. This is what happened in the Western world also. Work liberated women and made them independent and have fewer children. Creche facilities and day-care centres are important for enabling women to work. In India where patriarchy continues to rule, it is very difficult to change the mindset of people and many men still proclaim proudly that they do not allow women in their family to work.

Better healthcare and health insurance should also lessen the desire for sons and the elderly should be looked after by society and not by children alone. Many elderly are finding good care in private retirement homes today, but they are still expensive. In the UK, Canada and the EU, the state sends social workers to the homes of the elderly to help them with their medical or routine problems.

The Economic Survey 2017-18 has for the first time got a Pink cover because it includes the chapter on womens issues and #MeToo has been emblazoned at the top of Chapter 7, which takes note of the ongoing sexual harassment movement. But whether the NDA governments two women empowerment programmes  Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao and Sukanya Samridhi Yojana  will help in changing Indias son meta preference and save two million womens lives a year remains to be seen.vermaajay1968@gmail.com

The Haryana BJP took offence at a Goa minister belittling the state over the quality of tourists from North India. But the insult the BJP government in Haryana is piling upon the state is unbelievably staggering. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar is running a government as if he were taking orders at gun point. From letting non-Jats to provoke Jats into violence, to allowing Jats to burn down the state, to now submitting to the Jat demand to withdraw all cases against them, the government has allowed itself to be shoved and jostled the way anyone pleased.

The state government has demonstrated strange priorities and comprehension of governance. While it sees nothing amiss in appointing a senior IPS officer as CEO, Gau Seva Aayog, the government has also arrogated to itself the right to condone the most serious crimes of arson and violence committed by some Jat protesters. And all because the Chief Minister has to present a situation-under-control report to his party chief Amit Shah on February 15. Thousands of state and Central policemen are being deployed and legalities and justice are being sacrificed at the altar of divisive politics.

While Khattar may be dismissed as a helpless bystander, it is the BJP's politics that needs scrutiny. Why does it believe bringing thousands of youth on motorcycles into an already communally charged state is going to further the politics of the party? Drawing a parallel to Kasganj, UP, cannot be avoided. The Jat is being turned into the Muslim by the BJP in Haryana  isolating the Jats, and consolidating the rest. The likes of Jat leader Yashpal Malik deserve equal condemnation. He knows full well that only the courts can allow withdrawal of cases, just as reservation is a matter of Central legislation. Yet he continues to exploit the community's historical resentments to gain currency in a state to which he does not even belong. If Haryana has to avoid more violence in the run-up to both parliamentary and state elections, its people will have to see through the devious machinations of their leaders.vermaajay1968@gmail.com

A climbdown in the Indian stand on Palestine was a matter of when and how much ever since PM Narendra Modi made open his government's partiality for Israel. That the PM dropped two crucial adjectives from the standard Indian formulation on Palestine while on a visit to its capital and with its President by his side indicates he had no reservations about wearing this shift in the Indian stance on his sleeve. That moment, however, had not come two months earlier when US President Donald Trump decided to shift the American embassy to Jerusalem that is contested by the Palestinians and Israel. The Indian protestation at Trump's altering of the status quo was feeble but such was the global annoyance over Washingtons attempt to shift the goalposts that India went along with most of the world in the UN vote.

In his speech at Ramallah, Modi expressed support for a sovereign, independent Palestine but dropped two words  united and viable  that were invariably mentioned in all Indian formulations on the dispute. By dropping united, Modi has moved closer to the hard-line Israeli and American positions. It means India will no longer seek the removal of Israelis who have illegally settled on Palestinian land since the war in 1967. The exclusion of viable means Palestinians will not get access to ports and airports which is a key condition by the Israeli right wing for settling the dispute.

Israel is no more the pariah it once was. But if Modis statement is not an aberration, India has made more than a leap of faith. About a year back, it had dropped its insistence on a two-state solution which has not been done even by countries under the US security umbrella. Modi's incentive appears to be purely transactional extract instant gains from the current Israeli government. Another bonus is that India gets on the same page as the new peace plan masterminded by Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner. But the danger is that if Kushners plan goes the same way as all previous peace plans, India will be left in an embarrassing position: jettisoning principles for a chimera.editorial@tribune.com

Vishal Joshi

Tribune News Service

Kurukshetra, February 12

From aiming at roping in more than 1 lakh volunteer motorcyclists to hiring a helicopter to handle any emergency, the state BJP is making elaborate arrangements to make party president Amit Shahs rally a successful event.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Union Steel Minister Birender Singh and state Agriculture Minister Om Prakash Dhankar have been visiting Pandu Pindara village to oversee preparations.

The spacious ground is located on the outskirts of Jind, near Safidon road. Jind is the turf of Jat leader Birender, who had ditched the Congress to join the BJP ahead of the last General Election.

Though Khattar government has convinced the All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti to drop its plan to disrupt the rally, the state machinery is worried due to the threat of protests by the INLD, Congress and AAP.

Dhankar and state police chief BS Sandhu inspected the site separately today. The former instructed the district authorities to depute a team of doctors from the PGIMS in Rohtak. At least six ambulances with advanced life support system would be called in from various districts.

The minister directed the administration to keep automobile repair shops open to assist participants in case of any breakdown of vehicles. Three helicopter sites had been prepared.

More than 1 lakh BJP activists will reach the venue riding motorcycles. Senior IPS officers will be deputed to oversee security arrangements, he said.

An advocate had approached the National Green Tribunal, challenging massive vehicular movement in one area by citing massive pollution as grounds for objection.

The BJP hopes to make the event a mega show. Eyeing the next Assembly elections scheduled for next year, the BJP has planned to start its electoral preparations with Shahs rally.

Political analysts said being centrally located, Jind had an important place. Various political parties felt that it was important to win over Jat voters of Bangar to win state elections. Jind and adjoining districts are named Bangar after local dialect Bangru.

Leaders like late Devi Lal, Om Prakash Chautala and Bhupinder Singh Hooda had tried to establish themselves in the rural hinterland. In October 2014, Narendra Modi had addressed an election rally during Assembly elections and bowed to khaps in Pandu Pindara, said an analyst.editorial@tribune.com

Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 12

Less than four years after a murder accused was done to death in a Gurgaon jail, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered Rs 12 lakh as compensation for his wife and minor daughter.

Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain also set a months deadline for the disbursement of compensation. The amount is over and above Rs 3 lakh already paid. The ruling came on a petition filed against the state and other respondents by Rekha Rani and her minor daughter through counsel SS Jattan.

Appearing before the Bench, Jattan asserted that victim Vineet Kumar was arrested and lodged in the Bhondsi District Jail in July 2013 after an FIR was registered for murder and other offences at the Badshahpur police station. While he had been facing trial, some co-prisoners assaulted him, resulting in his death.

In a reply to the petition, Gurgaon District Jail Superintendent Rattan Singh submitted that Rs 3 lakh had already been paid to the victims next of kin. Jattan, on the other hand, asserted that Rs 3 lakh was paid to the victims father and compensation was not paid to the petitioners. He also claimed that the petitioners were thrown out of the deceaseds home and the widow had not remarried.

Taking up the matter, Justice Jain asserted that facts were not disputed in the case. Vineets death had occurred as an undertrial prisoner while he was in judicial custody. The petitioners were seeking relief as he was the sole breadwinner.

Referring to a High Court judgment in Manjit Kaur case, Justice Jain observed that decision of the Supreme Court rendered in the case of Neelabati Behera, alias Lalita, versus Orissa and others was quoted by the Bench.

It was held in the apex court judgment that the prisoners or undertrials were not denuded of their rights under Article 21 of the Constitution. It was obligatory on the states part to prevent infringement of a citizens indefeasible rights to life except in accordance with the law. In the case, this court had awarded compensation to the tune of Rs 15 lakh, Justice Jain added.

Calling attention to the facts of the case in hand, Justice Jain observed that Vineet was 29 years old and had left behind his widow and minor daughter. Therefore, going by the earlier verdicts in similar cases, the petitioners were held entitled to compensation of Rs 12 lakh over and above Rs 3 lakh already paid.editorial@tribune.com

Ravinder Saini

Tribune News Service

Jhajjar, February 12

The Central Information Commission has slapped a penalty of Rs 75,000 on the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO)-cum-Regional Provident Fund Commissioner (Pension), Delhi, for not furnishing documents sought under the RTI Act.

As per order, the penalty will be recovered from the salary of the CPIO, Mukesh Kumar, in five equal instalments. The first instalment will be paid by March 18, while the deadline for the last instalment is July 18.

The commission recently issued the order on appeals filed by Parveen Kohli, who retired as General Manager, Haryana Tourism Corporation.

Last year, I had filed three applications with the Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) under the RTI Act, seeking attested copies of documents related to re-computing or revising the pension of employees and its disbursal on full salary irrespective of any limit in view of Supreme Courts orders, a report or recommendations of the pension implementation committee, and agenda of 215th meeting of the Central Board of Trustees (EPF) held in Bengaluru in 2016, Kohli said.

He said the information was urgently required for defending pension revision cases of more than 50 lakh EPS pensioners across the nation in view of SC judgments, as the EPFO was denying the benefits to a large number of pensioners by concealing and suppressing facts of several court cases.

I visited the EPFOs head office, Delhi, after getting no response on the application within 30 days. The office asked me to deposit Rs 102 for getting documents. After I depositing the money, the office, however, furnished uncertified documents on July 31 last year. Subsequently, I filed the first appeal, but no hearing was conducted. This forced me to approach the commission, Kohli said.

He further said the commission not only directed the EPFO to facilitate inspection of files and file notings and provided certified copies of selected documents within 15 days, but also issued a show-cause notice to the CPIO for penalty.

The commission later imposed the maximum penalty of Rs 25,000 against the CPIO after finding his reply to the notice unsatisfactory. It also slapped a fine of the like amount on him in my two other appeals of similar nature. Hence, the CPIO will have to pay Rs 75,000, Kohli added.monicakchauhan@gmail.com

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 12

The Supreme Court on Monday gave four weeks to former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh to respond to a petition filed by the CBI challenging a limited part of the Delhi High Courts verdict dismissing his plea for quashing of a disproportionate assets case.

A Bench headed by Justice RK Agrawal -- which had on January 4 issued notice to Singh on the CBIs petition in four weeks --gave him further time after senior counsel Kapil Sibal submitted on behalf of the former chief minister that he needed more time.

On the last date of hearing, Additional Solicitor General PS Narasimha had clarified to the Bench that the CBIs challenge was limited to a particular portion of the Delhi HC verdict in which it questioned the procedure followed during the probe with regard to the states consent.

The issue whether such consent had been obtained generally, or specifically, as well as the issue as to what is the effect of the investigation conducted, if any, without obtaining the prior consent of the government of Himachal Pradesh, cannot be determined in the present proceedings and would fall for consideration, if and when a chargesheet is filed before the learned special judge, the HC had said in its March 31, 2017, order.

However, the high court had refused to quash the disproportionate assets case against Singh and his wife, rejecting their contention that the FIR was a result of political vendetta.

Interestingly, the Supreme Court had in October 2017 dismissed Singhs plea to quash a disproportionate assets case registered by the CBI against him and his wife.

In an order passed after an in-chamber hearing on October 23, Justice Deepak Gupta dismissed had Singhs petition after his counsel failed to cure the defects pointed out by the Supreme Courts Registry. According to the court order, Singhs Advocate-on-Record was not present during the hearing.

Singh had moved the Supreme Court in April last year against a Delhi high court order dismissing his plea to quash the disproportionate assets case registered by the CBI against him and his wife.

Singh had termed the action taken against him a well-planned conspiracy to damage his public image in the run up to the assembly elections. He had alleged the corruption case against him was a result of political vendetta.

In his petition filed in the top court, Singh had wondered as to how the CBI could register a case against him without the state's consent -- which was a pre-requisite under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act. Singh has maintained that CBI overstepped its jurisdiction in filing the case as the cause of action did not arise in the territory of Delhi.

Contending that on the same set of facts the agency had earlier conducted a preliminary enquiry and closed the case, Singh had questioned the CBIs decision to reopen the case.

Justice Vipin Sanghi of the Delhi High Court had dismissed Singh's plea to quash the CBIs FIR and vacated the October 1, 2015, order of the Himachal Pradesh High Court that had restrained the probe agency from arresting, interrogating or filing a charge sheet in the case without the courts permission. The case was transferred to the Delhi HC in November 2015 on the top courts order.

Within hours of the Delhi High Courts order, the CBI had filed a chargesheet against Singh (82) and his wife in a city court. The Enforcement Directorate had attached his South Delhi farmhouse estimated to be worth Rs 27 crore.

The CBI had registered the FIR against Virbhadra Singh and his wife under Sections 13(2) and 13(1)(e) of the Prevention of Corruption Act and Section 109 of IPC by the CBI on September 23, 2015. It had accused him of amassing assets worth Rs six crore between 2009 and 2012 during his tenure as Union steel minister in the UPA-II government.

The agency maintained it had jurisdiction to register and probe the case in Delhi as the disproportionate assets were allegedly acquired by him from the illegal income generated a minister during UPA government.editorial@tribune.com

Dinesh Manhotra

Tribune News Service

Jammu, February 12

Against the backdrop of two back-to-back gun battles of the security forces with terrorists at Jammu and Srinagar cities, Mehbooba Mufti today vowed that repeated fidayeen attacks wont shatter her resolve for dialogue with Pakistan.

She asserted that talks with Pakistan were a necessity and the only option for restoring lasting peace in this region. The CM was speaking in the Assembly on the last day of the Budget session of the legislature here today.

Giving a veiled warning to the BJP leadership and some hawkish elements for opposing dialogue with Pakistan, she recalled that her father Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had taken a bold decision to stitch an alliance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take the peace and reconciliation process with Pakistan to its logical conclusion.

How long will we continue with this confrontationist approach towards Pakistan? she asked while maintaining that people are getting killed on the borders as well as in militant attacks and dialogue with Pakistan would end this bloodshed and destruction.

Lambasting warmongers, she said: Since 1947, we have fought and won wars with Pakistan, including the Kargil conflict, but nothing has been achieved. War is no option and dialogue in the only way to end bloodshed in this region, she asserted, adding that some so-called experts on Kashmir are further creating confusion about the prevailing situation in the state.

Regretting that supporters of dialogue with Pakistan had been dubbed anti-national by some forces, she said that despite such a title she would not stop batting for dialogue with Pakistan.

Extending support to her arch-rival Farooq Abdullah for suggesting talks with Pakistan, Mehbooba said both Farooq and she had been termed anti-nationals by some TV channels for advocating dialogue to end violence. She endorsed the statement of Farooq and Omar Abdullah that dialogue was the way forward.editorial@tribune.com

Arteev Sharma

Tribune News Service

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11

The operation to flush out Jaish terrorists from the Sunjuwan military base here stretched into the second day on Sunday, with the number of casualties rising to six as Army commandos recovered the bodies of another Junior Commissioned Officer, two soldiers and a civilian during sanitisation of residential quarters.

All four were killed by the terrorists in the initial stage yesterday, the Army said.

Editorial: Army camp attacked

The six deceased were identified as Subedar Madan Lal Choudhary from Kathua, Subedar Mohd Ashraf Mir from Kupwara, Havildar Hahibullah Qurashi from Kupwara, Naik Manzoor Ahmed from Qazigund, Lance Naik Mohd Iqbal from Pulwama and his father.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The Army said three heavily-armed terrorists, who managed to enter the military base in the wee hours of Saturday, had been killed. The state government had initially said four to five terrorists had stormed the camp. Unconfirmed reports suggested that two more terrorists had been eliminated.

While a team of the National Investigation Agency also reached the Army camp, sources said Army Chief General Bipin Rawat and Western Army Command chief Lt Gen Surinder Singh took an aerial survey of the operation.

Meanwhile, a soldier, Gunner Kishore Kumar Munna of Chautham in Bihar, who was injured in ceasefire violation in Poonch on February 4, succumbed to his injuries today.OAKLAND, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lucid, provider of the most comprehensive SaaS intelligence platform for building operations, today announced it has been acquired by Acuity Brands, Inc (NYSE:AYI), a leading provider of intelligent lighting, building automation systems, and IoT solutions. Over the last decade Lucid has developed the leading platform for building performance analytics, BuildingOS. The acquisition will enable Lucid to accelerate the continued development of the BuildingOS platform to integrate all facets of building data and expand the applications built on the platform. Lucid will leverage Acuity Brands extensive investments in building sensor networks, integration, and controls to extend the capabilities of the platform. Together, BuildingOS and Acuity Brands will transform the way building data is used and unleash the value of intelligent building solutions.



Lucid will continue to grow BuildingOS as an independent and open platform, and will continue to be led by current executives including CEO Will Coleman and Co-Founder Vladi Shunturov. As Lucid joins the Acuity Technology Group, it will continue to extend its data integration, analytic, and workflow capabilities, leveraging Acuity Brands technology assets and install base to provide expanded solutions across new applications and segments.

Acuity Brands investment in Lucid represents a significant step forward in unlocking the value of IoT within buildings by connecting the dots between advanced sensory network solutions and the broader integrated building data required to drive better operational and business decisions. Lucids BuildingOS enables owners, operators, and occupants to find powerful insights in their building data to make buildings more efficient and improve the performance of the people and businesses that rely on them.

This will allow us to accelerate our mission to enable organizations to harness building data and deliver better buildings, said Will Coleman, CEO, Lucid, Inc. We are excited by the partnership with Acuity Brands and the opportunity to leverage Acuitys broad IoT and control capabilities to deliver a more complete solution to our customers and overcome some of the fundamental hurdles associated with IoT deployment and integration.

Buildings are being transformed by data and intelligent systems in the same way as every other industry. Hundreds of billions in unnecessary costs, lost revenue, and productivity are at stake. Acuity Brands digital lighting-based sensory networks and Atrius software platform combined with the intelligence that Lucids BuildingOS can provide will unlock the value of the expanding IoT landscape.

I am thrilled for Lucid to join Acuity Brands, as we extend the power of our digital networked lighting, building management and IoT solutions, said Laurent J. Vernerey, President of Acuity Technology Group. We have the sensory networks, control systems, and IoT integration solutions, and Lucid now allows us to unlock the power of all that data through cloud-based analytics and applications. Lucids BuildingOS platform will be central to our investment in the IoT space, and unlocking the value of smart lighting solutions.

Lucid and Acuity Brands share a vision for an open and integrated smart building platform that leverages best in class technologies and empowers owners, operators, and occupants to improve their building performance and business performance. The power of a building analytics platform is its ability to integrate data from across systems. While Lucid will now be able to leverage the digital lighting networks, sensors, and control capabilities being developed and deployed by Acuity Brands, Lucid will remain an independent and open platform focused on integrating data from any data source within or associated with a building. Lucid has built integrations into over 180 different building data systems and services from utility data to building automation systems, sub-metering, work order systems, and property management solutions. The platform will continue to be data source agnostic and focus on the power of analytics applied to integrated data streams. Acuity Brands investment in Lucid will help support the continued expansion of the platform and accelerate the companys growth.

About Lucid

Lucid provides a data and analytics platform to make data-driven decisions to improve building efficiency and drive better building and business performance. Lucid's SaaS-based BuildingOS platform is deployed in more than 500 organizations, 15,000 buildings and 1.5 billion square feet of commercial buildings. It empowers thousands of professionals at every level of the customer organization to improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, manage capital decisions, and drive business performance from their buildings. For more information, visit https://lucidconnects.com/.

About Acuity Brands

Acuity Brands, Inc. (NYSE:AYI) is the North American market leader and one of the worlds leading providers of lighting and building management solutions. With fiscal year 2017 net sales of $3.5 billion, Acuity Brands currently employs over 12,000 associates and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia with operations throughout North America, and in Europe and Asia. The Companys products and solutions are sold under various brands, including Lithonia Lighting, Holophane, Peerless, Gotham, Mark Architectural Lighting, Winona Lighting, Juno, Indy, Aculux, Healthcare Lighting, Hydrel, American Electric Lighting, Carandini, Antique Street Lamps, Sunoptics, Distech Controls, nLight, ROAM, Sensor Switch and Atrius. Visit us at www.acuitybrands.com.

Media Contact:

Lucid

Ralf VonSosen

510-356-2551

rvonsosen@lucidconnects.comeditorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Jammu, February 12

The city is gearing up to celebrate Mahashivaratri with temples being prepared to receive thousands of pilgrims. Displaced Kashmiri Pandits celebrate the festival in their own unique way.

Ahead of the festival, a religious procession was taken out in the city, which passed through various markets, depicting various aspects of Lord Shiva. Many social and cultural organisations displayed tableaus to mark the festival, which falls on Tuesday.

In Jammu city, a large number of devotees gather at the historical Pir Kho Temple, Ranbireshwar Temple and other shrines. Like every year, a mela is being organised at Aap Shambhu Temple in Roop Nagar.

Meanwhile, Minister for Relief and Rehabilitation Javed Mustafa Mir paid a visit to Jagti township to take stock of the arrangements for the festival by the state government. The camp is inhabited by displaced Kashmiri Hindus. MLC Surinder Ambardar also accompanied him.

On the occasion, thousands of people are expected to visit the Shiv Khori cave shrine in Reasi.editorial@tribune.com

Arteev Sharma

Tribune News Service

Jammu, February 12

Holding the neighbouring country squarely responsible for the Sunjuwan military base terror attack, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today said Pakistan would have to pay for the misadventure. She assured that the sacrifices of the soldiers would not go in vain.

She also said the Central government would stand by the Army and not let anyone down while taking a stand on the registration of first information report (FIR) against Major Aditya Kumar in the Shopian firing incident.

I wouldnt certainly state a timeline (for action against Pakistan). But will say this, Pakistan will pay for this misadventure. I repeat, Pakistan will pay for it, Sitharaman said in the backdrop of the Sunjuwan attack that left five unarmed soldiers and a civilian dead.

Sitharaman, who arrived in Jammu on Monday to assess the security situation and meet the injured soldiers and civilians, said, Our Intelligence inputs show that terrorists were controlled by their handlers from across the border. Evidence is being scrutinised by the National Investigation Agency. Pakistan is expanding the arch of terror to areas south of Pir Panjal and resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration.

The operation to flush out terrorists from the Sunjuwan base, which started in the wee hours on Saturday, was called off at 10.30 am on Monday after the elimination of three terrorists. She said a fourth one might have acted as a guide and didnt enter the base.

Launching a scathing attack against Pakistan for providing safe haven to terrorists, Sitharaman said, it (Pakistan) has not taken action in spite of us giving a dossier of evidence. On the contrary, we find the people who are directly responsible for the Mumbai attack are still free and happily roaming in Pakistan.

Asked whether giving of dossiers to Pakistan was the only response to the neighbourng country, she said, The giving of proof will have to be a continuous process because it has to be proven over and over again so that everybody knows Pakistans involvement. The evidence will only strengthen that argument. So giving it does not deny us our right to respond adequately and at the time which we think is fit.

All evidence is being collected and compiled. Definitely, it will be given to Pakistan. We will be providing evidence to prove that their handlers are back in Pakistan and they are ones who are influencing this, she added.

She said the terrorists who attacked the military station belonged to the Jaish-e-Mohammed, which is sponsored by Azhar Masood who is residing in Pakistan and deriving support from therein.

Over a volley of queries regarding registration of the FIR against Major Aditya Kumar and stand of her ministry, she said, We as the Ministry of Defence, me as the Defence Minister and the Centre, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, stand by our Army and we shall not let anybody down.

Earlier, the Defence Minister undertook an aerial survey of the military base and visited the Army Hospital at Satwari where the injured are being treated. She also called on Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and had an elaborate discussion with her about the terror attacks and security scenario in the state.

Assesses securityamansharma@tribunemail.com

Tribune News Service

Jammu, February 12

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday that the attack on Sunjuwan Military Camp was carried out by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists, sponsored by Pakistan-based Azhar Masood. Pakistan will pay for this misadventure, she said.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Intelligence inputs suggested that terrorists who attacked the military camp were controlled by handlers from across the border, she told reporters.

Three terrorists were killed even as the initial information was about four of them, she said adding that the fourth may have acted as a guide. There was a possibility that the intruders benefited from local support, she added.

The attack resulted in the death of six people, including five soldiers, she said.

The counter-terrorist operation at the military camp was called off this morning but sanitisation operations were still on, she added.

The defence minister said the JeM module which conducted the attack may have infiltrated sometime back and possibly enjoyed local support.

"The counter terrorist operation in Sunjuwan Military camp was called off at 1030 hours today. However, sanitisation operations are still on," she told reporters here.

She said the terrorists, sponsored by Azhar Masood in Pakistan, chose to attack a military station which houses both troops and their families.

The cantonment is located on the outskirts of Jammu, approximately 30 km from the international boundary in a semi-urbanised environment with a densely populated civilian locality, she said.

"The demography of the cantonment and adjoining areas indicate the possibility of local support to the terrorists and an alert had been sounded on the likelihood of an attack by the terrorists around this period," she said.

The defence minister said that quick reaction teams (QRTs) were deployed in vulnerable areas. It was assessed that Pak-sponsored terrorists may target softer elements, hence, QRTs were also positioned at Sunjuwan family quarters, she said.

Sitharaman said the intrusions of the terrorists was promptly detected by the sentry and challenged by a nearby QRT leading to the brief exchange of fire.

"This immediate action forced terrorists to split into individual positions and prevented a coordinated strike. The scattered terrorists reached the family quarters and occupied some of the blocks," she said.

They were isolated, and since the terrorists were dressed in battle fatigues, and had an appearance similar to to their possible victims, the operation had to be done "deliberately slow" to avoid collateral damages, she said.

"The operation entailed the deliberate search of 26 blocks and safe evacuation of families from 189 flats which was time consuming and a challenging task, she said.

This was successfully achieved with no fatal casualties to our troops.

"Six fatal casualties, including a civilian, were caused by the terrorists due to their firing on unarmed service personnel and their dependents during the initial seizing of the residential quarters in an attempt to gain forceful entry into the family quarters," she said.

The defence minister said three terrorists were eliminated although there was information of four terrorists in the area.

It is likely that the fourth terrorist was a guide and may not have entered the premises, she added.

"Our intelligence inputs indicate that these terrorists were being controlled by their handlers from across the border," she said.

Sitharaman she said the evidence was being scrutinised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which shall soon furnish a detailed report.

In the end, I wish to express my deepest condolences on the loss of lives of our brave soldiers and their families during the dastardly attack on our unarmed soldiers and assure our nation that their sacrifice would not go in vain, she said.

"I compliment the valour of our brave soldiers who carried out this operation with precision and professionalism.

We will continue to thwart any attempt by Pakistan sponsored terrorists to cause violence in our country," she said.

Earlier in the day, Sitharaman visited those injured in the terror strike at a Military hospital here. She took an aerial review of the military station.

The defence minister then met Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti. Sitharaman was briefed on the security situation in the wake of the Sunjuwan terror attack, officials said.  With PTI inputsrchopra@tribunemail.com

Dinesh Manhotra

Tribune News Service

Jammu, February 12

J&K Assembly Speaker Kavinder Gupta on Monday asserted that as custodian he would not allow the august House to be misused by some members as a platform for pursing anti-India activities.

Without naming National Conference (NC)s Mohammad Akbar Lone, who had raised pro-Pakistan slogans on the floor of the House on Saturday, the Speaker said some members who had previously committed mistakes should not repeat them and maintain sanctity of the House.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Earlier, BJP members created uproar in the House and demanded action against Lone and the registration of sedition charges against him. Some members have made a mockery of the House by raising such demands which are anti-Constitution, BJP member RS Pathania said, adding, Earlier, some members have raised the demand for Azadi and now one of the senior members who has served as Assembly Speaker has raised pro-Pakistan slogans.

Lone does not deserve to be a member of the Assembly, Pathania said. He was supported by his party colleague Rajeev Sharma who vociferously demanded registration of sedition charges against Lone.

Rajeev Jasrotia, another BJP member, observed that it was for the first time in the history of J&K that a member had raised pro-Pakistan slogans on the floor of the House. He also echoed the demand that an FIR be registered against Lone.

To placate the annoyed BJP members, veteran NC member Mohammad Shafi Uri sought to draw the attention of the House to statements in which top leadership of the NC had disowned Lones statement.

The stand of our party is clear. The NC is committed to the unity and integrity of the country, Lone said, adding, Our party has never challenged Indias sovereignty.uttara@tribuneindia.com

Tribune News Service

Jammu, February 12

Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti called for dialogue between India and Pakistan on Monday, hours after security forces foiled a militant attack at a paramilitary camp in Srinagar.

Speaking in the assembly on Monday, Mufti admitted that the prevailing security in the state was not encouraging, and said that militant attacks such the recent one changed public discourse away from development issues. She said however that war was not an option.

Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option.  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) February 12, 2018

The chief ministers remarks come on heels of two militant attacks, both coming within a day of each other.

A paramilitary trooper was killed in a gun battle that began after some militants unsuccessfully tried to storm a CRPF camp on Monday. Some militants hid themselves in an abandoned house in Karan Nagar in Srinagar after they unsuccessfully tried to lay siege on a CRPF camp located very close to SMHS Hospital.

The attack came within a day of another standoff between militants and army that ended with six peoplenot including three militantsbeing killed.

Five army men were among the six people who died when three gunmen stormed an army camp in Sunjuwan.RN Malik

RN Malik

NEHRU, of late, has become the most misunderstood personality in India, largely due to the disinformation campaign by some vested interests. But his contribution and services to the nation will be remembered forever because Satyameva Jayate Na Anritam.

The Planning Commission was scrapped simply because it was Nehrus brainchild. Its replacement, the Niti Aayog  the brainchild of Modi  has still to prove itself. People of India are mostly ignorant about the intellectual strength and scholarship of Nehru because they have not read his books and speeches delivered in Parliament. People below the age of 53 (forming about 65 per cent of the population) have not seen his time as Prime Minister and how he shaped the country into a modern, secular and democratic state with great institutional strength. See the fate of Pakistan, where the flower of democracy has not blossomed yet. A Pakistani journalist once remarked to his Indian counterpart: You are basking in the glory of democracy because your leaders struggled hard to achieve Independence. Pakistanis got it on a platter. Consequently, they are yet to see and feel the true spirit of democracy.

Nehrus role during the freedom struggle has been outstanding and full of sacrifices. His total stay in gaols was nine years. He was not even allowed to see his seriously ailing wife, except for a few days. But he did not lose equanimity of mind and devoted most of his time in writing. He described his experiences in the most dignified and salutary language in his autobiography, and did not express angst, rancour or animosity toward the British. Even the incident of striking the head of his mother by an Indian policeman during the agitation against Simon Commission was described in a facile manner. His renowned books  An Autobiography, Glimpses of World History and Discovery of India  have acquired the status of classics. Glimpses of World History is the most gleaning because of its high literary standards and narrative of wide-ranging international events. The book reveals that Nehru was well versed in history, political science, sociology, astronomy and pure science. Sample this: We are told that this universe is an expanding one. A mathematician, Sir James Jean, compares it to a soap-bubble which is getting bigger and bigger, the universe being the surface of the bubble. And this bubble-like universe is so big that it takes millions and millions of years for the light to travel across it.

Glimpses of World History is a compilation of 196 letters running in 991 pages which he wrote to his daughter Indira. The first letter was written on October 26, 1930, from Central Prison Naini on her 13th birthday, and the last on August 9, 1933. Each letter is a gem of prose and repository of rare details of great historical events. Each letter she received every week was a priceless gift from her illustrious father. The happiness each letter brought to adolescent Indira must be of inestimable value. No father has corresponded so much with his daughter, at such a high intellectual level, as Nehru did. These letters will remain the envy of every father and every daughter till somebody outshines Nehru. The possibility is bleak.monicakchauhan@gmail.com

Aditi Tandon

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 12

The Congress on Monday demanded an apology from RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for touting his own force as stronger and more disciplined than the Indian Army, and also asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify his position on the issue.

Does the PM approve of raising private militias to defend national frontiers? The PM must clarify because the RSS is the parent organisation of the ruling party, senior Congress spokesman Anand Sharma said after Congress president tweeted his condemnation of the statement of RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat.

The Congress rejected the RSS clarification on the issue and its charge that the statement was misrepresented.We dont accept that, Sharma said after Bhagwats remarks that in the event of an exigency and if the Constitution permits, the RSS can molies its cadres in three days where the Army will take six months.

Congress warned against militias to defend borders and cited examples of how Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Somalia and Congo had come to grief due to private militias getting involved to secure the borders.

So does the PM agree to raising private militia outside of the Army to defend India? Sharma asked.

He also questioned the locus standi of the RSS in bragging about its ability to defend the frontiers, a role the Constitution earmarks for the Army.

The RSS calls itself a social and cultural organisation. They said so in writing to get rid of the ban Indias first home Minister Sardar Patel placed on them after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. But we all know what the RSS stands for now that they are loaning leaders to the BJP to govern, Sharma said.

The Congress has asked its frontal organisations to protest Bhagwats statement across India. Protests began from Delhi today.

Earlier Congress president Rahul Gandhi had slammed the Bhagwat over his statement.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS, Gandhi tweeted.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation.



It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it.



Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

In his address at a school in Muzaffarpur on Sunday, Bhagwat claimed that RSS was capable of preparing military personnel in three days for which the Indian Army would take six to seven months.

Bhagwat's controversial statement also sparked an outrage on social media. The RSS has, however, clarified that its chief's speech has been misrepresented.editorial@tribune.com

Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, February 12

A Central Reserve Police Force constable was killed and a policeman injured as the security forces thwarted a possible fidayeen attack on its camp in Srinagar early on Monday. The militants were trapped in a nearby multi-storey building, triggering an encounter, which was still on. The Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) has claimed responsibility for the attack.

An alert sentry noticed two armed militants carrying rucksacks emerging from a house and approaching the CRPF battalion headquarters at Karan Nagar under the cover of darkness.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The sentry immediately opened fire and the effective fire prevented terrorists from entering the camp. The militants fled the scene. Our parties and quick reaction teams were rushed and searches of the camp periphery in the residential area were started. Almost four hours later, a contact with militants, hiding in a partially constructed multi-storey building, was established, CRPF IG Ravideep Singh Sahi told The Tribune.

He said the building was located outside the CRPF camp premises. After the area was cordoned off, civilians from neighbouring houses were evacuated and the operation was launched. In the initial gunfight, one of our men was critically wounded who later succumbed, he said.

The slain jawan was identified as Mujahid Khan of 49 Batallion and a resident of Bihar. A police man was also injured in the gunfight.

The exchange of fire continued as loud sounds were heard during the day. The operation is expected to extend as the building is massive. Minor incidents of stone pelting around the gunfight site were reported, prompting the police to fire tear gas shells. A police officer said the situation was under control.

The site is close to Srinagars premier Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital (SMHS), from where a top Pakistani LeT militant, Naveed Jaat, escaped on February 6. Two policemen were killed in the militant attack.

Talks with Pak must: Mehbooba

"Dialogue with Pak is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk as war is not an option. If we (Kashmiris) dont talk about it (dialogue), who will? Not a Bihari, not a Punjabi.  Mehbooba Mufti, J&K CMeditorial@tribune.com

Smita Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 12

On the last leg of his West Asian tour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was received by Sultan Qaboos bin Said at Bait al Barakh in Oman who hosted a banquet dinner in his honour. Modi today received Deputy Prime Ministers Fahd bin Mahmoud al-Said and Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said and interacted with Omans CEOs. Maritime cooperation between the two neighbours across the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea remained the focus of official talks, along with counter-terrorism, defence, cyber and space security, trade, energy cooperation, diaspora and regional stability.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Condemning terrorism in all its forms but without naming any country or terror outfit or mastermind, the joint statement read: The two sides also emphasised upon the need to isolate the sponsors and supporters of terrorism and agreed that the international community should take urgent action against all such entities which support terrorism and use it as an instrument of policy.

Modi appreciated the support extended by Omani security agencies on specific issues of security concern to India. Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos, my deep gratitude to you and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection. We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman, wrote the Prime Minister on Twitter.

India and Oman signed eight MoUs and agreements in areas of space cooperation and health, among others, and agreed to regular joint exercises by the three defence forces and training of defence officials.The 10th round of the bilateral Joint Military Cooperation Committee talks will be held this year in Muscat. Oman has decided to join the India-led International Solar Alliance to harness solar energy and renewables.

Prior to his departure for India, PM Modi visited Sultan Qaboos Mosque and an ancient Shiva Mandir in Muscat. PM Narendra Modi performed Abhishekam at the historic Lord Shiva temple at Muscat and interacted with members of the Temple Management Committee. It was constructed 125 years back by the merchant community from Gujarat and renovated in 1999, tweeted MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. Later, the PM visited the grand mosque, the biggest in Oman built from 300,000 tonnes of Indian sandstone sculpted by 200 craftsmen from India.monicakchauhan@gmail.com

Vibha Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 12

Forest and tree cover of the country has increased by 8,021 sq km (1 per cent) as compared to assessment of 2015, says the Indian State of Forest Report 2017.

The report says the very dense forest has increased by 1.36 per cent as compared to last assessment.

The top five states where maximum forest cover has increased are Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha and Telangana.

The five states where forest cover has decreased are Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura and Meghalaya.

The main reasons for the decrease are shifting cultivation, other biotic pressures, rotational felling, diversion of forest lands for developmental activities, submergence of forest cover, agriculture expansion and natural disasters, says the report.

The report was released by the Environment and Forest Minister Harshvardhan.

Harshvardhan gave credit to various government policies, including the Green Highways, for contributing to increase in the forest cover.

He said: India is striving towards increasing its NDC goal of creating additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by 2030.

As per the assessment, the total carbon stock in forest is estimated to be 7,082 million tonnes.

There is an increase of 38 million tonnes in the carbon stock of the country as compared to the last assessment, says the report.

The minister said India was among the top 10 countries in its forest cover despite having the maximum population density among all.

Meanwhile, as per the report, water bodies inside forest cover have also increased by 2,647 sq km.

The 2019 report would see further a perceptible, measurable change in forest cover, Harshvardhan said.FORM 8.3

PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY

A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE

Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the "Code")

1. KEY INFORMATION

(a) Full name of discloser: Majedie Asset Management Limited (b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):



The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named. (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:



Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree



TESCO PLC (d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:



For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure 09 February 2018 (f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?



If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state "N/A" No





2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

Class of relevant security:



ORD 5P



Interests Short positions Number % Number % (1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 318,373,744 3.89 (2) Cash-settled derivatives:



(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:



TOTAL:



318,373,744



3.89

All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors' and other employee options)

Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists: Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:

3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

(a) Purchases and sales

Class of relevant security Purchase/sale



Number of securities Price per unit ORD 5P Purchase 66,305 200.6921

(b) Cash-settled derivative transactions

Class of relevant security Product description



e.g. CFD Nature of dealing



e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position Number of reference securities Price per unit





(c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type



e.g. American, European etc. Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit

(ii) Exercise

Class of relevant security Product description



e.g. call option Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit





(d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

Class of relevant security Nature of dealing



e.g. subscription, conversion Details Price per unit (if applicable)





4. OTHER INFORMATION

(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:



Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state "none"



None





(b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:



(i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or



(ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:



If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state "none"



None





(c) Attachments

Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO

Date of disclosure: 12 February 2018 Contact name: Matthew Hambly Telephone number: 0207 618 3900

Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

The Panel's Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code's disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

The Code can be viewed on the Panel's website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.



rchopra@tribunemail.com

Muscat, February 12

India and Oman have signed eight agreements, including on cooperation in the field of defence, health and tourism, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with the Sultan of the country.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, led delegation-level talks on Sunday with Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said.

Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of honest and hard working Indian nationals in the development of Oman.

After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Omans Diplomatic Institute.

There was an MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman, and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation.

During his two-day visit, Modi will also meet Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said.

Earlier, addressing the Indian diaspora at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Omans capital, Modi said the ties of India and Oman had always remained strong despite the ups and downs in the political environment in both the countries.

He said Indian diaspora had played an essential role in strengthening these ties.

India and Oman had thriving links rooted in centuries-old people-to-people exchanges, Modi said.

More than nine million Indians work and live in the Gulf region. In Oman, they constitute the largest expatriate community.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman. PTIgspannu7@gmail.com

Kathmandu, February 12

Indian Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat arrived here on Monday on a three-day visit to Nepal to attend its Army Day, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of the establishment of the Himalayan nations unification.

Gen Rawat is visiting Nepal at the invitation of Nepal Army chief Rajendra Chhetri.

Gen Rawat was supposed to arrive in the morning, but due to inclement weather the Indian Army chief reached Kathmandu in the afternoon, Nepal Army spokesman said.

The Indian Army chief will attend as special guest a function organised by the Nepal Army to mark the Army Day, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of establishment of the countrys unification.

The late King of Gorkha, Prithvi Narayan Shah, united dozens of smaller states into a greater Nepal in 1769, when he conquered the Kathmandu valley.

There have been close and cordial relations between the Nepal Army and Indian Army for a long time and there is a tradition of inviting chiefs of Nepalese and Indian Army during special occasions, said a statement issued by the Nepal Army.

Such high-level visits between the two armies will further strengthen bilateral relations and promote mutual interests, the statement said.

Last year, Gen Rawat was conferred the title of honourary general of the Nepal Army by Nepalese President Bidya Devi Bhandari.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Sanjam Preet Singh

Tribune News Service

Mahendragarh, February 12

There are different narratives about the beating up of two Jammu and Kashmir students here. But the assault on February 2, it now emerges was not a one-off incident.

Several such violent attacks have been reported here since December, with the timing as a common link: always after Friday prayers.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

The February 2 incident received considerable media spotlight after the J & K CM informed her Haryana CM about the assault on social media.

News reports said the assault on the two Rajouri students Aftab and Amjed was the fallout of a collision between motorcycles.

Aftab dismisses this theory. After offering prayers, we stopped at a tailors shop at Masani Chowk. Amjed was about to ride pillion when 10 to 15 youths on motorcycles came from behind and started beating us up. I cried for help, but no one came forward. We dont know why we were attacked, he says.

The police booked unidentified persons under Sections 148 (rioting), 149 (every member of unlawful assembly guilty of offence committed in prosecution of common object), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 341 (wrongful restraint) of the IPC.

Three youths arrested on February 3 have been released on bail.

The ABVP, Rajput Sabha, Sartaj Group (that claims to be an NGO) and other fringe outfits have been protesting for withdrawal of the cases. They claim the matter has been given a communal colour. They have been burning the effigy of J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, whose tweet had set the police into action. Kuldeep Yadav of Sartaj Group told The Tribune, If the police fail to withdraw the case by February 15, we will step up the agitation.

The police claim the students were beaten up due to mistaken identity.

Aftab did not tell his parents, fearing they would ask him to return home, till he gave a TV interview. The tall, lanky youth from Rajouri has calmed the nerves of his parents and is determined to complete his studies. His classmate Amjed is still fearful and refused to come on record.

However, the locals and a letter to the police maintain that the assault was not an isolated incident.

On December 22, a Muslim youth was allegedly beaten up by motorcycle-borne youths after he offered Friday prayers, stated a January 15 letter to the police by Muslim Samaaj, Mahendragarh. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a skull cap.

On January 12, another Friday, three youths went on an assaulting spree: first they beat up two Muslim men as they walked out of the mosque; then, a short distance away, two men from West Bengal. Ten minutes later, they beat up two youngsters from UP in a vegetable market. And about 15 minutes later, they threw stones at the mosque.

The two Bengalis were brick-kiln workers. Their contractor, Mukul Sheikh, said, Maminul Mian (37) and Nabidul Mian (34) were assaulted after offering namaz. Maminuls Aadhaar card and a note of Rs 500 were snatched. He was badly injured on his nose and eye.

The contractor did not approach the police considering it a stray incident. But when another of his men was beaten up near Masani Chowk on February 2, he submitted a police complaint. He was not the only victim that day. An ironsmith, who has a shop near the mosque, said four migrant labourers from UP were assaulted near Angoori Devi Dharamshala. This was the day when the two J&K students were beaten up.

The police registered another FIR on the charge of assaulting four labourers and six persons have reportedly been booked in connection with assault on students and labourers.

All victims were wearing skull caps and they were attacked after offering jumma prayers, the ironsmith said, wishing not to be named.

Some have returned to their native places and are unsure about returning.

Mahendergarh SP Kamaldeep when asked about the other attacks, simply maintained that the police were investigating.

Ever since the February 2 attack, a police van is stationed outside the university, and a police official deployed outside a mosque. The imam, Maulvi Mubarak Hussain, says he is scared to venture out of his home located on the mosques premises. I ask a friend to buy me things of daily need. I dont wear a skull cap. I keep it in my pocket, he said.editorial@tribune.com

New Delhi, February 12

The Maharashtra Government today told the Supreme Court the statements of four judges, who were with special CBI judge BH Loya on the last day of his life, and had termed his death as natural, were unimpeachable.

Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, had died allegedly of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleagues daughter.

According to me, statements of four judges (J Kulkarni, J Barde, J Modak and JRR Rathi) are unimpeachable that the death of Loya was natural and unfortunate.

The judges were with Loya since November 29 to December 1, 2014. The statements were signed by the judges. Are not they trustworthy? senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Maharashtra, told a Bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra.

Referring to judgments on PILs), he said the SC amended its rules and laid down guidelines as to who can file PILs to ensure that motivated petitions are discouraged and not entertained.

Alleging that petitioners were creating castle in the air, Rohatgi said the PILs cannot be based on unconfirmed and hearsay media reports solely, and the courts should verify the credentials of such petitioners.

Referring to contents of petitions, including those filed by Congress leader Tehseen Poonawala and journalist B Lone, Rohatgi said they had only relied upon unconfirmed news reports, published November last year onwards, and filed PILs without any further detail and they are now arguing as if these are murder appeals.

Nobody, including petitioners, did anything for last three years and now they have come out of slumber. They are saying that they want to protect the judiciary. However, they are standing for scandalising the judiciary, Rohatgi said. Rohatgi will resume arguments on February 16.

The Bench is hearing pleas seeking an independent probe into Loyas death in 2014. BJP president Amit Shah was an accused in the Soharabuddin Shaikh case, but was later discharged.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

New Delhi, February 12

The Opposition today slammed RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for claiming better mobilisation prowess than the Indian Army and sought a public apology from him. The Congress further asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi whether he plans to outsource the task of national security to the RSS, his partys ideological mentor. The party plans nationwide protests on the issue.

Leading the attack, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said: The RSS chiefs speech is an insult to every Indian because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Congress spokesperson Anand Sharma too demanded an apology. PM Narendra Modi should clarify whether he is for private militia independent of the Indian Army to defend national frontiers. The Indian armed forces have the mandate to protect the country. The Constitution gives that power to the Army. Is the PM planning to outsource national security job to the RSS? Countries that have promoted private militia have come to grief, he said, citing the Taliban in Afghanistan and IS in Syria and Iraq.

Meanwhile, the RSS clarified that Bhagwats comments had been misrepresented. Bhagwat ji had said that if the situation arises and the Constitution permits, the Indian Army would take six months to train society whereas Sangh swayamsevaks can be trained in three days as they practise discipline regularly. This was in no way a comparison between the Indian Army and the swayamsevaks but it was a comparison between the general society and swayamsevaks. Both are to be trained by the Indian Army only, Manmohan Vaidya, RSS Akhil Bharatiya Prachaar Pramukh issued a statement.

The Congress was quick to trash it. There is no place for militia in a democracy. What the RSS chief has said is sad and disturbingly shocking. While the Army was grappling with an attack in J&K, the RSS chief was saying this. This is an insult to the Tricolour. The Army has the mandate and defined responsibilities to defend out frontiers. No one else can take the Armys place, said Sharma.

He said: It claims to be a social and cultural body. This is what they said to escape the ban that first Home Minister placed on them after the Mahatma Gandhis assassination. But we know what the RSS is. It has been loaning leaders to the BJP.  TNSrchopra@tribunemail.com

Kolkata, February 12

More than 5 kg gold was seized from a passenger at the airport here after the man arrived from Dubai, Customs officials said on Monday.

The 60-year-old man on wheelchair was intercepted by Customs officials, who recovered eight gold bars weighing 5.35 kg from him on Sunday night.

The man used the wheelchair as a ploy as later it was found that he was fit enough to walk, they said.

The man, hailing from Tamil Nadu, was arrested. His name was not disclosed. PTIrchopra@tribunemail.com

Muscat, February 12

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met industry leaders of the Gulf and West Asia region at the India-Oman business meeting here during which he pitched India as an attractive destination to do business.

Modi, who arrived here on Sunday from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, also met Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs of Oman Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said.

The two leaders discussed intensification of bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Four countries in 4-days strengthening our footprint in Gulf and West Asia! PM @narendramodi begins Day 4 with business - Oman-India Business Meet in Muscat. Pitching India as an attractive destination to do business, complementing our expanding strategic partnership, Kumar said.

Later, the Prime Minister will visit the historic Shiva Temple of Muscat. The temple is one of the oldest in the region and is located in the Matrah area near Sultans Palace.

The temple was constructed 125 years back by Merchant Community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

The temple has three deities--Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

He will also visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque before heading back to Delhi. PTIrchopra@tribunemail.com

Muscat, February 12

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he felt extremely blessed after praying at the 125-year-old Shiva Temple in Muscat, one of the oldest in the region.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour, visited the temple located in the Matrah area here.

Feeling extremely blessed to pray at the Shiva temple in Muscat, the Prime Minister tweeted.

PM @narendramodi performed Abhishekam at the historic Lord Shiva temple at Muscat and interacted with the members of the Temple Management Committee, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

The temple was constructed 125 years ago by the merchant community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

It has three deities--Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

The Prime Minister also posed for group photos with the temple administration officials and the Indian community members.

He also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque of Oman. It was inaugurated in 2001.

Yet another Indian connection with Oman! PM @narendramodi visited the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, which is the biggest mosque in Oman. The mosque is built from 300,000 tonnes of Indian sandstone sculpted by 200 craftsmen from India! Kumar said. PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 12

The Supreme Court today stayed proceedings with regard to an FIR registered by the Jammu and Kashmir Police naming Major Aditya Kumar as an accused in connection with the Shopian firing incident.

A three-judge Bench headed by the Chief Justice of India, which had on February 9 agreed to hear the matter, directed that no coercive measures be taken against the officer. Issuing a notice to the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir Government, it asked the petitioner, Major Aditya Kumar's father Lt Colonel Karamveer Singh, to serve a copy of his petition to the office of the Attorney General to enable him represent the Union of India.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

Major Aditya Kumar's father had sought quashing of the January 27 FIR against his son. The petitioner was represented by senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi while Attorney General appeared for the Centre. Lt Colonel Karamveer Singh had also sought guidelines to protect soldiers rights and adequate compensation for them.

Two civilians were killed in Shopian when Army personnel fired at a stone-pelting mob in Ganovpora village, prompting the CM to order an inquiry, following which an FIR was registered against personnel of 10, Garhwal unit, including Major Aditya Kumar, under Sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Ranbir Penal Code.

The Army had on February 1 presented its version of events, contradicting the police FIR, reiterating that the soldiers had opened fire on protesters in self-defence to prevent imminent lynching of an officer, snatching of weapons and burning of the Army vehicles. Petitioner Lt Colonel Karamveer Singh contended that the FIR had been illegally filed against Major Aditya Kumar.

In his petition, he maintained his son had been "wrongly and arbitrarily" named in the FIR as the February 27 incident was regarding an Army convoy on bona fide military duty in an area under AFSPA, which was isolated by an "unruly and deranged" mob pelting stones, causing damage to military vehicles.

"The petitioner is constrained to file the writ petition for quashing of FIR, directly before this court in view of the extremely hostile situation on the ground, whereby an FIR has been registered by the local police against the son of the petitioner, who is a service Army officer and was performing bona fide duties as directed by the Union of India, read the petition.

He urged the top court to lay down guidelines to protect the rights of soldiers and adequate compensation so that no Army personnel was harassed by initiation of criminal proceedings for bona fide actions in exercise of their duties. He also demanded an FIR against those involved in terrorist activities that had resulted in damage to government property.

The petitioner said the intention of his son, a Major with 10 Garhwal Rifles, was to save Army personnel and property and the fire was inflicted "only to impair and provide a safe escape from a savage and violent mob engaged in terrorist activity".

The unruly mob was asked to disperse, not to obstruct military in performing their duties and not to damage government property. When the situation reached beyond control, a warning was issued, the plea said.

When the unruly behaviour of the "unlawful assembly" reached its peak as it got hold of a JCO and was in the process of lynching him, warning shots were fired to disperse the mob and protect public property, the petitioner submitted.

He referred to last year's incident of a mob lynching DSP Mohd Ayub Pandith to highlight the situation in the troubled state and the conditions in which Army officials were working to control mobs in Kashmir.amansharma@tribunemail.com

Ravi S. Singh

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 12

The government has not invited the Congress-affiliated Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) for the forthcoming 47th Session of Indian Labour Conference (ILC), evincing sharp reaction from 10 Central Trade Unions (CTUs).

The development has raised the spectre of their possible boycott of the event.

The unions concerned, including INTUC, met to discuss agenda points relating to the two-day conference, commencing here on February 26, and other related issues.

Subsequently, they shot off a joint letter to Union Minister for Labour Santosh Gangwar on governments alleged arbitrary approach.

The unions are AITUC, CITU, AIUTUC, TUCC, SEWA, AICCTU, LPF, UTUC and INTUC.

They described governments move of selective approach against INTUC as politically vindictive.

They underlined to Gangwar that they had earlier recorded their opposition to such discriminatory treatment against INTUC.

As per governments verification of membership numbers for the purpose of recognition of unions concerned in 2002, INTUC was emerged as the second biggest union after RSS affiliate BMS.

During the meeting, the union leaders also questioned the governments departure from the earlier practice of issuing a common list of invitees (unions) for meetings.

AITUC secretary Vidya Sagar Giri said the government now sends the invitation to unions individually. This is an effort to create wedge among the unions, he added.

The unions are also miffed at the governments apathy on recommendations of the 43rd, 44th and 45thand 46th conferences.

They include (a) formulation of Minimum Wages; (b) on same wages and benefit for same work as regular workers for contract labour; and (c) on recognition of scheme workers as workers with statutory minimum wages and social security rights.

They injected cautionary note in the letter that the ILC is being reduced to a mockery raising question whether trade unions should become a party to it at all.Recognition honors Eastman's commitment to operate with purpose and lead with integrity

KINGSPORT, Tenn., Feb. 12, 2018 - Eastman (NYSE:EMN) announced today it has been recognized by the Ethisphere Institute, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the fifth consecutive year. The prestigious honor underscores Eastman's commitment to leading with the highest ethical business standards and practices.

"We are honored to be recognized among the World's Most Ethical Companies again this year," said Chairman and CEO Mark Costa. "At Eastman, we understand that, to be successful and fulfill our purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, we must build trust and confidence with all of our stakeholders - employees, customers, communities, investors, and suppliers. As we continuously look for innovative ways to create value for these stakeholders, our global team is committed to conducting business with honesty and integrity every day. This award is a testament to that commitment."

Eastman has a number of policies and initiatives in place that allow its team members to cultivate a culture of integrity and ethical standards. The company has an Office of Global Business Conduct, led by Eastman's chief legal and sustainability officer, which establishes the Code of Business Conduct. The Code outlines the laws, principles and guidelines all employees follow regarding honesty, integrity and responsible corporate behavior. Regular training on the Code of Business Conduct is required for all employees. Additionally, the Business Conduct Helpline is a confidential, 24-hour-a-day phone service staffed by communications specialists employed by an independent, globally recognized service provider.

"While the discourse around the world changed profoundly in 2017, a stronger voice emerged. Global corporations operating with a common rule of law are now society's strongest force to improve the human condition. This year we saw companies increasingly finding their voice. The World's Most Ethical Companies in particular continued to show exemplary leadership," explained Ethisphere's CEO, Timothy Erblich. "I congratulate everyone at Eastman for being recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies."

Honorees



In 2018, 135 honorees are being recognized, spanning 23 countries and 57 industries. The twelfth class of honorees has record levels of involvement with their stakeholders and their communities around the world. Measuring and improving culture, leading authentically and committing to transparency, diversity and inclusion are all priorities for honorees. The full list of the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies can be found at http://worldsmostethicalcompanies.ethisphere.com/honorees/.

Ethics & Performance



Once again, the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies have proven that operating with integrity leads to greater financial performance. Research has found that, when indexed, listed World's Most Ethical Companies outperformed the U.S. Large Cap Index over five years by 10.72 percent and over three years by 4.88 percent. Ethisphere refers to this as the Ethics Premium.

Methodology & Scoring



The World's Most Ethical Companies assessment is based upon the Ethisphere Institute's Ethics Quotient (EQ) framework, which offers a quantitative way to assess a company's performance in an objective, consistent and standardized manner. The information collected provides a comprehensive sampling of definitive criteria of core competencies rather than all aspects of corporate governance, risk, sustainability, compliance and ethics.

Scores are generated in five key categories: ethics and compliance program (35 percent), corporate citizenship and responsibility (20 percent), culture of ethics (20 percent), governance (15 percent) and leadership, innovation and reputation (10 percent). All companies that participate in the assessment process receive their scores, providing them with valuable insights into how they stack up against leading organizations.



About Eastman

Eastman is a global advanced materials and specialty additives company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With a portfolio of specialty businesses, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. Its market-driven approaches take advantage of world-class technology platforms and leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction and consumables. Eastman focuses on creating consistent, superior value for all stakeholders. As a globally diverse company, Eastman serves customers in more than 100 countries and had 2017 revenues of approximately $9.5 billion. The company is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA and employs approximately 14,500 people around the world. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.

About the Ethisphere Institute

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423.229.1025 | aallman@eastman.comeditorial@tribune.com

Our Correspondent

Jaipur, February 12

Presenting a populist Budget on the eve of Assembly polls due in December, Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje today announced one-time loan waiver of Rs50,000 for small and marginal farmers in the over-due and outstanding category of short-term crop loan provided by cooperative banks with a deadline of September 30, 2017.

The loan waiver will benefit nearly 20 lakh farmers but will cost the state exchequer Rs8000 crore, Raje, who is also holding the finance portfolio, told the Rajasthan Assembly.

A permanent institution titled Rajasthan State Farmer Loan Relief Commission would be set up to deal with farmers loan and other related matters on routine and merit basis, Raje said in her 140-minute speech. The government would provide an interest subsidy of Rs384 crore and Rs160 crore for compensation interest subsidy on short-term crop loans to farmers through central cooperative banks, she proposed.

Despite facing five minutes of uproar and interruption by Congress Leader of Opposition Rameshwar Dudi, Raje said it would be tax-free Budget with relief to the tune of Rs650 crore in many important sectors of industry, housing, stamp duty and registration.

In a major boost to realty sector and ongoing SC ban on mining of bajri (sand gravel), the CM announced that instead of large mines, small mining leases of bajri would be granted through auction so that people were benefited through price reduction.

Over 1.81 lakh new taxpayers have been added under GST, which is more than 35 per cent as compared to the VAT regime, she said. The revenue has increased by receiving compensation of Rs1,911 crore up to October 2017.

Amraram, vice-president of the Akhil Bhartiya Kisan Sabha, said it was incomplete relief to farmers as middle-level farmers were deprived of the benefit. Congress PCC chief Sachin Pilot said: Its an insufficient relief. The BJP has ditched farmers despite being aware of the rising number of suicide cases in the past four years.uttara@tribuneindia.com

Allahabad, February 12

Killing of a Dalit student of Allahabad University led to violence by student groups in parts of the city on Monday.

Angered over the killing of Dilip Saroj, a second year law student, by four men at a restaurant, students went on a rampage in parts of the city, torched a bus and also laid siege to the house of District Magistrate Suhas L.Y, police said.

Saroj was brutally assaulted by four men at a restaurant in the city on Friday evening. He died of his wounds on Sunday.

A video of the killing has gone viral, leaving the police red-faced.

A waiter at the restaurant, Munna Singh Chauhan, has been arrested and two policemen have been suspended.

Angry varsity students aligned to the Samajwadi Yuvjan Sabha (SYS) and the All India Students Association (AISA) took out a protest march on Monday and raised anti-government and anti-police slogans.

Demanding immediate arrest of the culprits, the students also sought adequate compensation for the deceased student's family.

No one in the Uttar Pradesh government has reacted to the gruesome killing, which incensed the opposition parties.

Efforts to speak to Health Minister Siddhartha Nath Singh, a legislator from Allahabad and spokesman for the Uttar Pradesh government, went in vain as he did not take calls.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has slammed Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the killing of the Dalit student.

In a statement, she said the atmosphere in the country and the state had become "vicious and violent" due to the politics pursued by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).  IANSeditorial@tribune.com

Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 12

A year after IAS officer Shivdular Singh Dhillon and Bathinda Food Controller Jaspreet Singh Kahlon were convicted in a contempt of court case pertaining to the Atta-Dal scheme, the Punjab and Haryana High Court today sentenced them till the rising of the court.

Asserting that the court was inclined to impose harsh fine due to their grave wilful disobedience, Justice Jaswant Singh said it was constrained from doing so due to the limitations imposed by the Contempt of Courts Act.

Punishing them with Rs 2,000 fine each, Justice Jaswant Singh said: On the one hand, the courts are being accused of using their powers excessively. On the other, officials like the respondents leave no stone unturned to provoke the court to use powers granted by the Constitution of India/legislature in order to meet the ends of justice.

The directions came on a petition by depot holder Roshan Lal Prem Chands counsel Vijay K Jindal. In an order passed in October 2015, the state had been directed to pay transportation charges and margin money on wheat procured and distributed under the scheme.

For the purpose, the Bench had set a three-month deadline. At that time, the depot holders were provided transportation charges and margin money on pulses, but not wheat. Jindal contended that necessary payments had not been released within three months; and no plausible justification whatsoever has been forthcoming.

Justice Jaswant Singh said the OSD (litigation) had advised the state to comply with the order dated October 30, 2015, in December that year by making the payments directed by the High Court within the stipulated period. But the two respondents and other officials took their own sweet time in taking a decision on filing an appeal or complying with the order.

It seems that the casual manner in which the decision-making process was done is due to the leniency shown by this court towards the officials at the time of entertaining contempt petitions, whereby, despite wilful default on part of the erring officials, they are let off without any action, Justice Jaswant Singh said.

Referring to lame apologies from the respondents, the Judge ruled that a justifiable explanation was not coming forth to deter the court from taking a harsh view against them. Instead of complying with the order or filing an appeal within time, they were sitting over the file. There is no doubt in the mind of the court that the respondents are liable to be punished, Justice Jaswant Singh said.

Contempt case

"It seems that the casual manner in which the decision-making process was done is due to the leniency shown by this court towards officials at the time of entertaining contempt petitions, whereby, despite wilful default on their part, they are let off without any action... There is no doubt in the mind of the court that the respondents are liable to be punished...." Justice Jaswant Singheditorial@tribune.com

Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 12

Making it clear that preventing the sagging of electricity cables and electrocution was the responsibility of the authorities concerned, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has ruled that failure to do so amounted to negligence. The Bench awarded approximately Rs 14 lakh compensation to the kin of a tractor driver electrocuted in 2014.

Taking up the petition filed by victim Jagdeep Singhs widow and minor children against the Punjab Government, PSPCL, the department of Chief Electrical Inspector and others, the Bench asserted that the facts and circumstances made it apparent that the victims death occurred due to fault on part of the respondents.

Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain asserted that the respondents did not maintain the faulty electric lines carrying 11 KV current in a manner that the lines did not sag or break and come in contact with humans or animals causing loss of life.

Disposing of the petition filed by Kanwaljit Kaur and other petitioners, Justice Jain observed that Jagdeep Singh, 28, was going to village Jagdev Kalan village in Ajnala with a tractor-trailer loaded with sand. He was electrocuted after the vehicle came into contact with the hanging electric wire.

Assessing the compensation as Rs 13.6 lakh, Justice Jain directed the respondents to pay the amount to the petitioners, along with annual 6 per cent interest from the date of death till its actual realisation. For the purpose, Justice Jain set a two-month deadline.

Justice Jain also observed that the tractor-trailer, too, was destroyed in the incident. The only dispute raised by the respondents was that the victim himself was responsible for the accident as he had raised the trolley height to accommodate additional sand he was carrying for delivery.

Referring to an affidavit filed by Chief Electrical Inspector, Justice Jain asserted that the officer specifically alleged that 11-KV line was sagging and the victim was driving the tractor-trailer on an unmetalled path beneath it. The vehicle's projected part came in contact with a live conductor of the 11-KV line. As a result, the victim suffered electric shock. "Since I have decided that the respondents are at fault, now the question would be as to what compensation should be awarded to the petitioners," Justice Jain asserted.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, February 12

Gursewak Singh Jawaharke, SAD leader, today accused the Vigilance Bureau of going slow on the probe into Rs 950-crore irrigation scam and failing to produce challan against the officials involved in it within the stipulated time period.

Addressing a press conference here today, Jawaharke said it was a Rs 950-crore project under which the government aimed to have in place a proper irrigation system by constructing water course outlets to irrigate fields. The project was primarily meant for Bathinda, Sangrur, Barnala and Mansa districts where groundwater is contaminated. The farmers, too, contributed 10 per cent of the project cost. About Rs 100 crore were collected from the farmers of these four districts, he said.

The Akali leader alleged that the contractors in connivance with the officials used substandard construction material in the project. He alleged that the Vigilance had even caught Executive Engineer KK Singla while accepting bribe from one of the contractors. The Vigilance conducted raids on the official and recovered more than Rs 1 crore cash while also unearthing his various bank accounts and FDs, he alleged. Similarly, another department official, SK Goyal, was raided and Rs 70 lakh recovered from him, he charged.

However, the Vigilance didnt produce any challan against them in the stipulated time period. He claimed that though he was the one who blew the lid off the scam, the Vigilance Bureau completed the inquiry without taking him into the loop. Moreover, Singla was even promoted as the Vigilance failed to initiate any action against him, he alleged.

Jawaharke had exposed the scam when the state was ruled by his own party in 2016. He said he had now moved a plea with the Vigilance Bureau to reopen the case, but still things were moving at the snails pace. He said they had also called a convention of the farmers in Mansa on March 3 to discuss the injustice being meted out to the farming community, where they would deliberate on the issue as well.

On the other hand, Bathinda Vigilance Bureau SSP Jagjeet Singh said, We will be producing challan in the court this week in connection with the case in which Singla was caught taking bribe. However, the probe into his disproportionate assets case is still on.vermaajay1968@gmail.com

IS the Times going to repeat in regard to India some of the tactics it employed in the days of Parnell to defeat Irish Home Rule? In a recent issue it published the letter of a solitary individual, asking Germans for ten blank cheques of 1,000 each under the sensational headline Letters from India to Germany. What would have been thought of a journal, not friendly to the United Kingdom to Germany? But not content with this the Times actually inserts the word (League) after the words Home Rule in a sentence in the letter asking the Germans to send money for Home Rule.amansharma@tribunemail.com

Beijing, February 12

China continues to differ with Nepal over the height of Mount Everest and sticks to its own calculation of the world's highest peak which is 4 metre less than the Kathmandu's measurement, a media report said on Monday.

(Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd)

China's response came after reports said Beijing had agreed to accept Nepal's measurement of the mountain, which is almost 4 metre taller.

The Chinese official media has contradicted the recent 'The New York Times' report that China had recognised the mountain's height as 8,848 metre, quoting Ang Tshering Sherpa, the former head of the Nepal Mountaineering Association.

China has not changed its measurement of the height of Mount Qomolangma, the Chinese name of the Mt Everest, which stands at 8844.43 meter, state-run Global Times reported.

China recognises Mount Qomolangma as the world's tallest, measuring 8,844.43 metre above sea level, the National Administration of Surveying, Mapping and Geo-information (NASG) told the state-run Xinhua News Agency.

The peak of Mt Everest played a significant role in the settlement of boundary between Nepal and China, which earlier claimed the whole mountain as part of its territory after it took control of Tibet.

But it was finally settled in 1961 after the intervention of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) founder Mao Zedong, who suggested that the boundary line should pass through the summit of the Mt Everest, which was agreed by Nepal.

More and more international climbers are reportedly using the Tibetan side of the Mt Everest as China has improved facilities compared to Nepal.

In 2005, the NASG measured Mt Everest's rock base at 8844.43 metre above sea level. The depth of the snow on the mountain top was measured at 3.5 metre.

The NASG said China had never in any form said it has changed the 2005 result, which has been authorised by the central cabinet and released to the public in accordance with relevant regulations.

According to the NASG, the standard height of the mountain is important data for China and international research on mapping, geosciences, environment and climate change and it also showcases comprehensive national strength.

"Each country's surveyors have the intention of making others recognise their own measurements and their own outcome.

But the different heights come from different measurement methods," Zhao Kangning, former deputy director of China's National Administration of Global Navigation Satellite Systems and Applications, told the Global Times.

"The different measurements of Mount Qomolangma's height between China and Nepal is a competition over the mountain," Xu Jianying, a research fellow of Research Centre for Chinese Borderland History and Geography at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) said.

However, Li Guoqiang, another expert at CASS, said that "the dispute over the height of Mt Qomolangma should not be politicised".  PTIROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Colombo, February 12

Maldives officials are accusing two arrested Supreme Court justices and a former President of plotting to overthrow the government.

They say police have found more than US$ 200,000 suspicious money in searches since a State of Emergency was declared last week in the tourist haven.

Yameens statement said ex-President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom had bribed officials and judges and encouraged riots. It said he and the justices were attempting to overthrow the government.

The Opposition leaders rejected the accusations, saying President Abdulla Yameen is trying to weaken his political opponents. Political chaos has shaken the government since the Supreme Court ordered that a group of imprisoned Opposition leaders be freed. The government pushed back, eventually declaring Emergency and arresting the two apex court justices, Gayoom and other politicians.

Meanwhile, an analysis by Moodys said on Monday that the ongoing political turmoil in Maldives would reduce tourist arrivals, a key driver of the economy and a prolonged crisis would dent investment inflows.

If tourists are deterred from travelling to Maldives for a prolonged period, the crisis will reduce. Tourism accounts for one-third of economic output, the report said.  Agencies

No land grab: chinaROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Seoul, February 12

In her first appearance on the global stage, Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, had her every move closely scrutinised.

Crowds applauded as she stood for the South Korean anthem during the opening ceremony for the start of the Winter Olympic Games, while her big smiles and relaxed manner left a largely positive impression on the South Korean public.

Kim Yo Jongs visit to South Korea, the first by a member of the Norths ruling bloodline since their 1950-53 war, could hardly have come at a more acute time.

I never thought I would visit (the South) so suddenly and believed much would be strange and different but I saw many things that were similar or the same. I hope the day we become one comes soon and hope to see all your friendly faces in Pyongyang, she said.

Dont be blinded by N Korea charm offensive

Japan today warned against being blinded by North Koreas diplomatic charm offensive at the Winter Olympics, saying the main goal remains ridding Pyongyang of nuclear weapons. Japans Foreign Minister Taro Kono, who was at Singapore said, We need to maximise pressure on North Korea, to corner North Korea to change its policy by fully implementing the UN Security Council Resolution. PTIuttara@tribuneindia.com

KUWAIT, February 12

Rebuilding Iraq after three years of war with Islamic State will cost more than $88 billion, with housing a particularly urgent priority, Iraqi officials told an international donors' conference on Monday.

Donors and investors have gathered in Kuwait this week to discuss efforts to rebuild Iraq's economy and infrastructure as it emerges from a devastating conflict with the hardline militants who seized almost a third of the country.

Iraq declared victory over Islamic State in December, having taken back all the territory captured by the militants in 2014 and 2015. The fighters have also been largely defeated in neighbouring Syria.

About $23 billion will be needed in the short term and more than $65 billion in the medium term, the director-general of Iraq's planning ministry, Qusay Adulfattah, told the conference.

"Rebuilding Iraq is restoring hope to Iraq, and restoring the stability of Iraq is stabilising the states of the region and the world," said Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili.

The seven provinces attacked by the militants suffered $46 billion in direct damage, including the destruction of 147,000 housing units, and the security forces took $14 billion in losses. Tens of billions more were lost indirectly through damage to the wider economy and years of lost growth, the planning ministry said.

Iraq has published a list of some 157 projects for which it is seeking investment.

They include rebuilding destroyed facilities such as Mosul airport and new investments to diversify the economy away from crude oil sales, developing transport, agriculture and oil-related industry including petrochemicals and refining.

Rebuilding homes, hospitals, schools, roads, businesses and telecommunications will be key to providing jobs for the young, ending the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people and putting an end to decades of political and sectarian violence.

Gains at risk

Nations could help by acting as guarantors with lenders, allowing Iraq to take out soft loans to fund infrastructure projects, Mahdi al-Alaq, Secretary-General of Iraq's Council of Ministers, told the conference.

US officials said the United States, which occupied Iraq from 2003-2011 and now leads an international coalition that provided air support against Islamic State, does not plan to pledge funds at the Kuwait conference.

Lise Grande, UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq, said failure to help Iraq could lead to renewed instability.

"If the international community doesn't help the government of Iraq to stabilise these areas (devastated by the war) the gains against Daesh could be at risk," she said, using the Arabic acronym for Islamic State.

Non-governmental organisations pledged $330 million in humanitarian aid at a parallel NGO conference, Kuwait's state news agency KUNA reported.

Baghdad has said it is determined to tackle the red tape and corruption that hamper investment. Iraq is viewed by investors as the 10th most corrupt country in the world, according to Transparency International.

Iraq reopened to foreign investment after 2003, with most spent on increasing its oil and natural gas production.

Iraq has suffered from decades of war. It fought Iran for most of the 1980s and invaded Kuwait in 1990, leading to defeat by a US-led coalition and more than a decade of sanctions. A US-led invasion in 2003 toppled dictator Saddam Hussein and was followed by years of occupation, insurgency and sectarian and ethnic conflict, before Islamic State emerged in 2014. Reutersshalender@tribune.com

Colombo, February 11

Sri Lankas ruling alliance was humiliated today in local elections seen as a test of its leadership as the party of former strongman president Mahinda Rajapaksa pulled off a stunning landslide victory, final results showed.

The mid-term polls further strained the uneasy coalition between President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as they face a resurgent challenger in Rajapaksas new party.

Official results showed Rajapaksas Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna  SLPP or Peoples Front  won 225 councils, or two thirds of the 340 up for grabs, at yesterdays election described by private poll monitors as the most peaceful in decades.

Wickremesinghes United National Party (UNP) was a distant second with 41 councils while Sirisenas Freedom Alliance languished with just 11.

Rajapaksas party comfortably won in all regions barring the battle-scarred north and east where, as president, he brutally crushed a separatist movement to end the islands ethnic war in 2009.

I earnestly request all those who contested under the SLPP to celebrate this hard-won victory peacefully and with restraint and in a manner that will not inconvenience the defeated side, Rajapaksa said in a statement. The vote affects only the lowest rung of politics but the result is being seen as a stinging rebuke to the ruling coalition, which has struggled to pass promised post-war reforms.

The alliance between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe  who teamed up to defeat Rajapaksa in a presidential election in 2015  has frayed as both men have levelled allegations of corruption and backstabbing against the other.

Wickremesinghes UNP had been the favourite to lead yesterdays poll while the parties led by Sirisena and Rajapaksa were expected to fight for second.

Rajapaksas surprise dominance was proof the people no longer had faith in the tattered ruling alliance, said SLPP spokesman Gamini Lakshman Peiris. This was a referendum on the government. It has no legal or democratic right to remain in power, Peiris told reporters.

Neither the president or prime minister were commenting on the result. Official sources said both men, who campaigned separately for their respective parties, were meeting senior aides to discuss the next moves.

The UNP had indicated it may go it alone in the next General Election in 2020 as the rift between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena and their supporters deepens.  AFP

All set for big arenaROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Islamabad, February 12

Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain has signed an ordinance aimed at reigning in individuals and organisations like the LeT, Al-Qaeda and Taliban, which have been banned by the UN Security Council, a media report said today.

The ordinance amends a section of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), enabling the authorities to take action against the UNSC-proscribed individuals and terror outfits, like sealing their offices and freezing their bank accounts, The Express Tribune reported. The sources in the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) confirmed the new move, saying the ministries of Interior, Finance and Foreign Affairs as well as NACTAs Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) wing are working together on the matter.

An official in the president office familiar with the development confirmed the said legislation but refused to share details, saying the Ministry of Defence was the notifying authority.

The relevant ministry will notify and comment on it, the official said. It is learnt that the authorities are bound under international obligations to take measures against such outfits under the framework of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)  an international body that combats money laundering and terrorist financing.

The UNSC sanctions list includes Al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e- Taliban Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and others.

In December last year, the government had planned to take over two charities belonging to Hafiz Saeed  the JuD and the FIF  and an action plan in this connection was supposed to be submitted.

Last month, the government had banned companies and individuals from making donations to the JuD, the FIF and other organisations. Jundullah was the last organisation declared proscribed by the government of Pakistan on January 31, 2018 on the NACTA website. However, the JuD and the FIF continue to be on the NACTA watch list.

LeT was declared a banned organisation under the UNSC resolution 1267 in 2005. The US State Department in 2014 had named the JuD as a foreign terrorist organization.

India has alleged that the JuD leader Saeed was key conspirator behind Mumbai attacks of November 2006.

Pak Talibans No. 2 killed in US drone strike

Peshawar: Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) today confirmed that the groups deputy chief Khalid Mehsud alias Sajna was killed in a US drone strike on February 8 in Pakistans restive northwestern tribal region.

We confirm that the deputy head of the TTP Khalid Mehsud died in a drone strike, Taliban spokesman Muhammad Khurassani said in a text message to reporters.

Taliban chief Mullah Fazlullah has appointed commander Mufti Noor Wali Wali as his new deputy, Khurassani added. Officials in Pakistan had earlier reported about Sajnas death in a US strike.

Sajna was a leading figure of the Taliban and that both Pakistani and American security forces were after him for a long time.

According to Pakistani officials, Sajna was battle- hardened with experience of fighting in Afghanistan.

Sajna, in his early 40s, was believed to be involved in an attack on a naval base in Karachi and was credited with masterminding a 2012 jailbreak in which the Taliban freed nearly 400 inmates in the northwestern city of Bannu.  PTI

AFTER DECADE, Barricades from JuD Hqs removed

Lahore: Acting on the orders of Pakistans Supreme Court, police today removed the barricades placed by the members of the banned Jamaat-ud Dawah outside the groups headquarters here in the name of security after over a decade. Chief Justice Saqib Nisar had ordered the IG Punjab police to open all roads blocked in the name of security in Lahore. If you fail to submit a compliance report, the court will decide your fate. You are not going to stay as the IG even if the chief minister wants to retain you, Justice Nisar warned. Deputy Inspector General (Lahore) Dr Haider Ashraf today said police had removed blockades from some 16 places including the JuD headquarters on the order of the Supreme Court. PTIROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Washington, February 12

US President Donald Trump today unveiled a $4 trillion annual Budget for the

fiscal 2019 beginning October 1, proposing $256 million in civilian assistance and $80 million in military aid to Pakistan.

The proposal of aid to Pakistan comes weeks after Trump administration suspended nearly $2 billion in security assistance to Islamabad due to its inability to take action against terrorist groups operating from its soil.

The White House has said it would consider lifting the freeze if it sees action by Pakistan against terrorist groups.

The budgetary proposal says that the military aid depends on Pakistan taking action against terrorist safe havens.

The Budget requests $256 million for Pakistan in economic and other assistance to help increase stability, promote economic growth and create opportunities for US businesses, said the annual Budgetary proposals sent by the White House to the Congress.

In addition, the Budget requests $80 million in Foreign Military Financing assistance to enhance Pakistan's counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency capabilities, contingent on Pakistan taking appropriate action to expand cooperation in areas where US-Pakistan interests converge and to address areas of divergence, in line with the administration's South Asia strategy, the White House said.

The Budget furthers the US goal of a stable and secure South Asia by supporting the Afghan government and security forces in their fight against the Taliban insurgents and jihadist terrorist organisations such as al-Qaeda and ISIS.

It requests more than $5 billion for continued US training and assistance for the Afghan security forces and would enable US forces to conduct counter-terrorism operations to ensure that the region cannot be used by jihadist, terrorist groups to plot transnational attacks against the US homeland, citizens overseas, or allies and partners.

The Budget also continues to include funding to support America's partnership with Pakistan, it said. The Budget's more than $630 million for civilian assistance supports the President's new strategy to empower the people of Afghanistan to take ownership of their future, the White House said.

In addition, the Budget strengthens and sustains improvements in education, health, governance and other sectors that are essential for securing a stable and prosperous Afghanistan.  PTI

Will seek funds for Mexico wallThe domain turkeytelegraph.com may be for sale. Please click here to inquireThe round of 16 has thrown up two clashes of European titans and trying to pick a winner from Chelsea versus Barcelona or Real Madrid against Paris is a tough enough task before you even consider which players are most likely to be involved in the decisive moments of both ties.

With that in mind, the potential value #UCLfantasy picks for this stage may come from the other six ties. Goalscoring midfielders and pacey wide men have prospered in this season's competition and three players from the five-strong English contingent must be at the forefront of most managers' thinking given their domestic form.

Manchester City have been irrepressible domestically and Raheem Sterling (8.7m) already has 15 Premier League goals to his name. Add that to the fact he has scored in his last four UEFA Champions League matches and another profitable outing at Basel would surprise nobody.

Five great Mohamed Salah goals

Only three players have scored more Premier League goals than Sterling this season, and Liverpool's Mohamed Salah (9.8m) is one of them. The Egyptian forward will be expected to take centre stage following Philippe Coutinho's move to Barcelona and with five goals already in the group stage, he will be expected to continue his magnificent form away to Porto.

Manchester United may not have the relentless attacking flair of their two north-west rivals but a trip to Sevilla may offer the sort of counterattacking opportunities that Jose Mourinho's men thrive upon. With the craft and guile of Alexis Sanchez now at their disposal, the likes of Anthony Martial (7.5m) may benefit against a Sevilla side who have leaked more goals than 11 of the other 19 Liga sides this term. Three goals in his last five Premier League starts suggests the French forward is coming into form at the right time too.

Bayern points magnet Joshua Kimmich Getty Images

Bayern versus Besiktas may be one of the more open ties in the round of 16 and there are plenty of affordable goalscorers on display for the hosts who could take the fancy of fantasy managers. Kingsley Coman and Corentin Tolisso are worthy of consideration but Joshua Kimmich (7.6m) is most likely to play 90 minutes and was their top points-scoring midfielder in the group stage.

Roma's form has deserted them since they completed an impressive group stage by winning a section containing Chelsea and Atletico Madrid, and that may tempt managers into taking a punt on some cut-price Shakhtar Donetsk players. Marlos (6.4m) has already equalled his career-best league haul of eight goals and he is as likely to score as serve up an assist for in-form Facundo Ferreyra (7.5m). The Argentinian striker has plundered 13 goals in 19 league matches, making him equally worthy of consideration.

Alex Sandro: clean sheets and the odd goal AFP/Getty Images

We've not mentioned defenders yet and there is one team that stands head and shoulders above the others on current form. Given Juventus have an eye-popping record of conceding just one goal in their last 16 games, at least one stopper from Massimiliano Allegri's ranks is surely a must as they host a Tottenham side unfamiliar to the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League. Alex Sandro (6.0m) appears the most likely to bolster a clean sheet by chipping in with a goal or assist but Mehdi Benatia (5.3m), who has three goals for club and country since November, offers decent value for money too.As prepared for delivery.

Let me start with a frank confession: I am a passionate believer in the potential of technology as we make sustainable development and inclusive societies a reality.

My faith in technologys potential is grounded in solid evidence and personal experience. My generation witnessed how mobile phones, for instance, profoundly changed the daily lives of billions of poor people within a single generation in both developing and developed countries.

Cognitive computing, blockchain, robotics, the Internet of Things and all things smart and digital hold great promise as new, potentially disruptive, technologies which are likely to have the same profound impact on development.

Nanotechnology, 3D and 4D printing, virtual, augmented and mixed reality, sophisticated digital assistants, autonomous vehicles, and cutting-edge genetic technologies - the list of technological megatrends just keeps growing at an unprecedented pace in what is now often referred to as the 4th industrial revolution.

Over the next ten years, artificial intelligence is expected to be the most disruptive of technologies due to the enormous computational power deployed, amounts of data collected, and advances in deep neural networks. This presents us with unprecedented potential in problem-solving and harnessing data to tackle the targets under our 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, agreed by UN member states in 2015.

It is important to note that, as a promoter of innovation, and often as the innovator itself, government has been a key actor in technological progress. Research has highlighted how it was public funding that drove both the IT revolution and other fields such as bio- and nano-technologies and todays green technologies. Where Governments decide to put support and create conducive policy and legal frameworks, they can continue to foster tremendous innovation for positive change.

Between Governments and the international community, we need to keep an informed conversation going, understand the interplay between technology and sustainability, and stand together to maximise the good that technology can bring.

I am therefore convinced that the judicious use of technology will be a key accelerator and enabler for many, perhaps all, of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals  the SDGs.

Indeed, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognises that "the spread of information and communication technology and global interconnectedness has great potential to accelerate human progress, to bridge the digital divide and to develop knowledge societies".

Technology is explicitly referred to in Goal 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure). Its target 5, for example, calls for the international community to: 'Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people and public and private research and development spending.'

Various other SDG targets have a significant technology component.

For example, there are benefits of digital technologies and services in health (SDG 3): e health applications can provide the opportunity for rural patients to benefit from remote diagnosis and improve their adherence to treatment. Innovation in low-cost health technologies, such as neonatal incubators or solar-powered vaccine refrigerators, can save lives in resource-constrained settings.

But perhaps the most interesting story is how technology will help to promote peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16). Around the world, digital technologies are promoting access to public information and improving transparency of public institutions. The results are helping the public sector become more efficient and effective. Achieving the targets set in SDG 16 is crucial for all aspects of the 2030 Agenda.

SDG 16.9 calls for the provision of legal identities for all, including birth registration. Proper and secure identification is a precondition for people to be citizens in their countries. Legal identity is the key to the exercise of political rights, such as the right to vote.

But some 1.1 billion people, nearly one in six individuals globally, usually the poorest and most marginalised members of society, more than a third of them children under 18, are not registered as citizens. Identification is the first and most fundamental prerequisite for government to be able to interact with, and provide services to, its citizens. Without identification, citizens are likely to be excluded from public services, such as healthcare, education, welfare and financial services.

For the developing world, electronic identity (eID) schemes offer the potential to overcome existing barriers to citizen registration, such as inadequate physical infrastructure, illiteracy and corruption. One outstanding example is Indias Aadhaar programme that provides authentication primarily based on fingerprints or an iris scan. Many Governments in the developing world are currently implementing or considering technology-enabled identity schemes.

Government interacts with technological innovation on multiple levels. As users and as regulators, governments must ensure that the applications of new technologies adhere to the rule of law and are in accordance with the central tenets of good governance, legality, transparency and accountability.

Innovation will cause profound change. Without effective institutions, technology could undermine relations between citizens and the state by infringing on privacy and human rights. Without doubt, innovation and technological change on scales forecasted promise to alter the way power is distributed and used within societies. States with effective institutions, however, will be better able to adjust to the effects of disruptive technologies, including on jobs, and strengthen the social contract through the constructive capacity of social media to mobilise collective action.

All this calls for competence in foresight  the art of considering alternative futures and gleaning insights for todays actions. Deploying strategic foresight methods in Government enables decision makers to be proactive rather than reactive in handling this rapidly changing environment, empowering them to take advantage of emerging opportunities and to become more resilient in the face of disruption and emerging challenges.

The use of new technologies  both in the public and private sector  profoundly affects citizens trust in government. That in turn shapes the legitimacy of the state, the political foundation of the social stability on which sustained economic growth and development depend.

With this in mind, the UN System is already supporting Governments in accelerating SDG implementation through technology.

For example, the UNDP in Kuwait is supporting the Government of Kuwait in establishing a Behavioral Insights Policy Appraisal Lab, with the aim of applying behavioral economics in public policies. The UN has similarly supported governments in Armenia, Bangladesh, Moldova and Sri Lanka with designing and launching policy innovation labs, helping to engage citizens as co-creators of public services.

The UN is working in places like Lebanon, Palestine, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen to harness decentralized solar solutions to ensure energy supplies, empowering communities, helping to ensure resilience and recovery from crisis.

Similarly, UNDPs Solar for Health initiative supports several African, Central Asian and Arab State governments to increase access to quality health services by equipping health centres with solar panels. Ensuring reliable and cost-eective access to electricity in this way not only saves lives but also reduces CO2 emissions. Partners include solar panel producers, local governments and communities.

In partnership with the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI), the UN is also supporting Indias Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to roll out an innovative mobile application that provides real-time information on cold chain temperatures and vaccine stocks and is significantly helping Indias progress towards universal vaccine coverage. With UN support, the Ministry of Health in Indonesia are in the process of replicating this innovation.

These sort of opportunities, offered by disruptive technologies, could help developing countries to leapfrog obsolete generations of technology and become digital leaders of their own development priorities.

But the dividends of using digital solutions to promote development will only be achieved if the digital divide is overcome. Internet connectivity can empower people and provide access to education and other public and private services. But it may also create new dependencies on developed world technological expertise, and vulnerabilities, such as to hacking.

We are all struggling to keep up with the knowledge, skills and tools required to harness the opportunities and mitigate the risks of disruptive technology innovations. Artificial intelligence can assess national development strategies many times faster than UN experts, possibly putting me out of a job in the not too distant future.

Cybersecurity will be an increasing concern. The collapse of critical infrastructure, such as power grids or air traffic systems, due to cyberattack could have catastrophic consequences for development.

All countries will therefore need to adapt to ensure that governments are prepared for this 4th Industrial Revolution. Governments must also help business adapt to digital global competition, and workers skills to the demands of the emerging digital economy. Safeguarding people against risk, by ensuring adequate social protection, skills training and education, is not an easy task. But the UN system can help by ensuring that key lessons and best-practices about managing shocks and technological disruptions are shared between countries and sectors.

So lets be frank about the challenges it will cause as technology advances at an unprecedented pace. Technologies do not come without risk, and not all technologies and risks are equally shared.

Technology-driven growth can have a disproportionate impact across countries, industries, and workers.

These are valid worries. I believe the UN will play an important role in addressing such dangers by working with its partners in government, the private sector and civil society.

Uncertainty is at the heart of technological change and innovation. Governments must provide an enabling policy and regulatory environment.

But, while innovation and new technologies can be powerful tools to accelerate the pace of development, to be successful, investment in technological innovation must be guided by political leadership, and underpinned by a skilled workforce capable of reaping the digital dividend, and, above all, effective public institutions.

Thank you.A total of 16 people lost their lives attempting to cross the mountains from Syria into Lebanon.  UNHCR/David Azia

TRIPOLI, Lebanon  Ahmed* put his 70-year-old mother on his back and started out across the snow-covered slopes. But the smuggler who was leading them over the mountains from Syria into Lebanon was going too fast, and despite Ahmeds desperate pleas, they became separated in a heavy storm.

The smugglers had told Ahmed that it would take half an hour to cross into Lebanon via the mountain paths. After spending seven hours wandering lost at night in the storm, six of his family members froze to death, including his wife, daughter and mother.

Lying on a foam mattress in a bare room on the third floor of an unfinished building in north Lebanon, the 43-year-old from a town near Syrias eastern border with Iraq is still in a state of shock. Life has no meaning for me anymore, he said. I wish I could be with them.

A total of 16 people lost their lives attempting the crossing that January 18 night, according to the Lebanese Civil Defense directorate.

This tragedy reveals the desperate lengths that Syrians must now go to escape the conflict and reach safety, given the closed borders all around Syria, said UNHCR Representative in Lebanon Mireille Girard.

This tragedy reveals the desperate lengths that Syrians must now go to escape the conflict and reach safety."

Among the dead that night were also some who had been living as refugees in Lebanon for several years, but who risked crossing back into Syria to access free medical treatment not accessible to them in exile. While attempting to return to Lebanon, they paid the ultimate price.

Ahmed and his extended family left their homes in mid-December, as the battle between armed groups and government-backed forces intensified in his village, located in a remote area of eastern Syria. A TV repairman, he had been jobless for three years because the fighters controlling his village prohibited TV watching.

Our house was bombed twice, explained Ahmed. We tried to get a legal permit to enter Lebanon, but there was no way we could afford it. We were told we would have to pay US$2,000 per person for a hotel reservation, or get a sponsor which would cost even more.

Encouraged by relatives who a month earlier had entered Lebanon via the mountain paths, Ahmed and 13 family members, mainly women and children, decided to follow. They went first to Damascus  their savings dwindling as they paid for safe passage at multiple checkpoints along the road  where they stayed for a month to get ID cards.

In the capital, he met the smuggler who offered to take them into Lebanon for US$100 per person, assuring him that the way was easy. They set off for the border in two vans packed with other travelers on the morning of January 18, arriving in the middle of a heavy winter storm.

The smuggler said it would be easier to cross in the middle of the storm, because there would be no Lebanese patrols, said Ahmed. In the no mans land between Syria and the Lebanese border post, they saw flashlights flickering on the slope ahead, where the smugglers partners awaited them. This is the signal, climb and follow the people who will lead you to Lebanon, the smuggler told them.

Initially carrying his mother on his back, Ahmed soon became exhausted, and was grateful when a man travelling with the group offered to carry her.

The snow was slippery, it was hard to walk, and we lost our way, said Ahmeds daughter Amira, 19, holding her daughter, Fatima, whose face is still burnt by frostbite. I think we lost consciousness; when I woke up, it was dawn, I tried to wake up my mother and sister, but they wouldnt move.

Out of the group of 14, six died: Ahmeds wife, mother, 14-year-old daughter, a grandson, and his brothers wife and four-year-old daughter.

The smuggler said it would be easier to cross in the middle of the storm, because there would be no Lebanese patrols.

The mountain smuggling routes are used by those on both sides of the border  Syrians attempting to flee the nearly seven-year-old conflict, as well as refugees already living in Lebanon who find themselves forced to return to the war-torn country out of desperation.

Around 1 million refugees are registered in Lebanon. Of these, around three quarters live in poverty on less than US$3.84 per day, many are unable to afford the cost of public healthcare. Those with valid IDs sometimes opt to go back to Syria to access free public healthcare before returning to Lebanon, irregularly via the smuggling routes.

That was the choice facing Noor, a refugee from Raqqa in northern Syria, when her newborn daughter fell sick in the tented settlement in Lebanons Bekaa Valley where they lived.

The hospital asked for 600,000 Lebanese pounds (US$400) just for the tests, she said. My daughter was getting worse every day, so we decided to take her to Damascus for treatment.

Leaving her five older children with their father, she carried the sick baby and walked through the mountains to Syria with other family members including her father-in-law and sister-in-law. Soon after they reached the hospital in Damascus, her daughter died, apparently the result of sickle cell anemia.

When she died, we immediately left the hospital and came back to the border. We were grieving and cared little about the storm, Noor explained. When we realized that we wouldnt be able to make it across the snow, we told the smuggler, but he refused to go back. My father-in-law and my sister-in-law, a widow, died on the mountain. I would have died too if her daughter hadnt helped me.

The cost of accessing healthcare is a common complaint among impoverished Syrian refugees in Lebanon, many of whom live in makeshift structures in sprawling informal settlements. Mohammed has lived in the ramshackle settlement in northern Lebanon for the past five years.

My mother is handicapped, and nobody helps us, he said. We havent slept since the storm started a week ago, our tent gets flooded every night.

* Names and locations have been changed for protection purposes

Visit UNHCR Lebanon websiteUN refugee chief Filippo Grandi meets Maymonah, 23, and Mariam, 47, at the Za'atari employment office, the world's first employment office in a refugee camp. Thanks to the scheme the women will start work at the Jerash Garment Factory next month.  UNHCR/Claire Thomas

AMMAN, Jordan  UN refugee chief Filippo Grandi on Monday praised Jordans efforts to boost employment among Syrian refugees, saying greater international support for such schemes was needed to lift millions of Syrians across the region out of poverty.

Of some 657,000 registered Syrian refugees in Jordan, more than 80 per cent live below the poverty line on less than US$3 a day, mirroring the situation facing more than 5.5 million Syrian refugees across the region. After years of exile, families are slipping deeper into debt and struggling to meet their basic needs.

I want to commend the government of Jordan for having facilitated schemes that allow Syrian refugees to have jobs, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees told a news conference in Jordans Zaatari refugee camp. What I will say to donors is we need to invest more in these schemes.

Grandi noted that Jordan has so far issued more than 88,000 work permits to Syrians, as part of a 2016 compact deal that also increased international aid to the country. The majority of permits were issued for the agriculture and construction sectors, with women accounting for around 5 per cent of the total.

Among them is Sawsan, a 39-year-old mother of six from rural Damascus, who works as a seamstress at the Jerash Garment Factory south of the capital Amman. She is one of 22 Syrian refugee women already working at the factory, along with two of her adult daughters, with a further 52 women from Zaatari camp set to start in March.

Sawsan told Grandi during a visit to the factory that it was her first ever job, and that she and her daughters combined income of 615 Jordanian dinars (US$867) a month had made huge difference to their lives.

Now when my kids ask for something, I dont have to say no all the time. Im trying to save money as well for my daughters to go to college, she said. Im enjoying being the bread winner. Im so proud of myself, and it has really built my confidence.

This is really a new way to support refugees, which does not make them dependent exclusively on handouts of food or cash.

This is really a new way to support refugees, which does not make them dependent exclusively on handouts of food or cash, Grandi said. It allows them to earn money, to have the dignity of having work, and to also build skills  especially for women  which will be very useful when they go home.

On his third visit to Jordan as High Commissioner, he also met with refugees living inside a secure area of Azraq camp, located in the countrys remote northeastern desert.

Many of the roughly 8,000 individuals still living in the fenced-off area known as village five have been there since mid-2016, when they were among more than 21,000 Syrians transferred to the camp after spending months stranded at the border.

The High Commissioner acknowledged the governments security concerns, which to date have seen some 13,000 cleared to join the general camp population, but said UNHCR was worried about the impact of such an extended period of confinement on those remaining.

Abu Bassam, 45, from Palmyra told Grandi that while they received food, medical treatment and education for their four children, they still felt singled out. All of the services are available here, but when it comes to employment it is hard, he said. We cannot leave, so it is tough.

Grandi described the decision by the authorities in recent days to move 265 people out of village five as positive, but said more should be done. We want that screening to continue, and as I told the foreign minister yesterday, please lets try to make it quicker.

Finally, Grandi described the recent escalation of conflict inside Syria as extremely concerning We are witnessing an extended failure of political action, an extended failure by states to help Syrians find a solution to this war, he said.

When you see the war becoming more and more complicated with more and more actors involved, then you get more worried. This internationalization of the Syrian war is what needs to be avoided, because it takes us further away from a solution, he concluded.Helped by his son, a grim-faced Jack Bandinga is arranging his belongings on the Ugandan shore of Lake Albert.

We have seen our peoples bodies on the ground, he says. People have been cut with machetes. These are the things we have witnessed.

Jack is lucky to have escaped violence in his home area of Toregesi in the north-eastern province of Ituri in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). After hiding in the bush for two days, he, his wife and four children managed to cross the lake on a fishing boat to the Uganda side, a five-hour journey fraught with danger.

Last week, over 22,000 Congolese crossed Lake Albert to Uganda in three days, bringing the total number of people from the DRC arriving in the country to about 34,000 since the beginning of the year. The refugees use small canoes or overcrowded and rickety fishing boats, often carrying more than 250 people and taking up to 10 hours to cross. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, has said it is saddened by reports of four Congolese refugees feared to have drowned after their boat capsized.

"I saw so many people die of hunger."

On Lake Alberts shores, crowds of newly-arrived Congolese mill around, collecting their belongings or waiting to see if family members and relatives have arrived on the boats.

Anita Mave, 24, is among those waiting for her family. She is not sure if they are alive. When the fighting escalated, she was separated from her husband and her two children.

My husband fled in one direction and I fled in another, she says. Im not sure if he and my children were killed or if they are alive.

Anita boarded a boat and crossed Lake Albert, hoping to reunite with them on the other side. She has not seen them or had any news of their whereabouts.

There is no food back there, I saw so many people die of hunger, she says. We are just surviving like wild animals.

Refugees are using small canoes or overcrowded and rickety fishing boats.  UNHCR/Michele Sibiloni

Last week, over 22,000 Congolese crossed Lake Albert to Uganda in three days.  UNHCR/Michele Sibiloni

The boats often carry more than 250 people and take up to 10 hours to cross.  UNHCR/Michele Sibiloni

Women and children finally reach Sebagoro by boat.  UNHCR/Michele Sibiloni

Increased fighting between ethnic groups has created a wave of displacement across the lake into Uganda. In the past week, more than 1,300 people have crossed to the Ugandan village of Sebagoro, where UNHCR has set up an emergency centre to receive those arriving.

The situation is quite dire, says Andrew Harper from UNHCRs Programme Support and Management Division. Theres a lack of water, food, medical equipment and shelter.

He says UNHCRs main objectives are to register arrivals, relocate them to areas allocated by the Ugandan government and to build infrastructure such as shelters.

Tens of people are reported to have been killed in the fighting and thousands have been displaced in the region. There are disturbing reports of whole villages being burned to the ground. Most of those displaced have limited assistance and access to basic needs such as food, water and relief supplies.

UNHCR is on high alert on both sides of the border and said in a statement that greater efforts were needed to ensure security and humanitarian access.

UNHCR is working with the Uganda government to ease registration of those arriving, which is essential for their relocation to Kagoma reception centre in Hoima district in western Uganda.

More than 5 million people have been forcibly displaced by conflict in the DRC. About 4.49 million are internally displaced and more than 680,000 have fled to nearby countries such as Uganda and Burundi.

The only aid we are asking for is peace in our country, Congo, says Jack Bandinga. We just came to Uganda for safety so the only aid we need is a peaceful Congo.Stephen Ravindra instructs CCW to develop framework for cyber crime staff 14 Sep 2021 | 5:19 PM Hyderabad, Sep 14 (UNI) Cyberabad Police Commissioner Stephen Ravindra instructed Cyber Crime Wing (CCW) to develop a framework for the working of the Cyber Crime staff and to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of every police officer associated with Cyber crime duties. see more..

Jammu Municipal Corp signs MoU with CSC SPV 14 Sep 2021 | 5:18 PM Jammu, Sep 14 (UNI) Jammu Municipal Corporation on Tuesday signed Memorandum of Understanding with

CSC e-Governance Services India Limited for integration of citizen centric services of Housing and Urban Development Department with Digital Seva Portal so that it can be accessed by citizens through CSCs regulated by CSC SPV as optional mode. see more..

Tript Bajwa demands special financial package for Punjab and a Centre of Excellence for buffaloes 14 Sep 2021 | 5:07 PM New Delhi, Sep 14 (UNI) The Punjab Government on Tuesday demanded a special financial package to establish a Centre of Excellence for research and breeding of buffaloes to further boost the dairy sector in the state.

This demand was raised by Punjab Animal Husbandry Minister Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa during his meeting with Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying ,Purshotam Rupala at Krishi Bhawan here on Tuesday. see more..

On occasion of Hindi Diwas, Audible brings Hindi audiobooks across various genres 14 Sep 2021 | 5:03 PM Mumbai, Sep 14 (UNI) On the occasion of Hindi Diwas, Audible has brought Hindi audiobooks across various genres. see more..February 12 2018

Fortis Developments have appointed Hardies to deliver a Hackland + Dore designed student accommodation block at Stanley Street, Edinburgh, approved on appeal back in September 2016 Planners had initially refused consent on the grounds that it would have a detrimental impact on surrounding air quality and was out of scale with its neighbours but this was overturned by the Scottish government.This clears the way for Hardies to begin delivery of a 93-unit scheme in the Meadowbank district of the city, taking the form of a linear brick-clad block conceived to create a continuous urban frontage to Stanley Place.It is hoped to have the block up and ready for the summer 2019 intake of students.Judges, Other Volunteers Needed for Wyoming State Science Fair at UW

The Wyoming State Science Fair (WSSF) is seeking volunteers to help judge and run the big event March 4-6 at the University of Wyoming.

The event draws more than 300 middle school and high school students representing nearly 50 Wyoming schools each year.

This is an excellent chance to get an early start recruiting enthusiastic students and to encourage the next generation of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) professionals, says Erin Stoesz, WSSF coordinator. This event brings hundreds of talented junior and senior high school students to the University of Wyoming campus each year.

Judging will take place Monday, March 5, and food will be provided to volunteer judges. More than 100 volunteers in the past have judged student-led research that may cover areas as diverse as robotics, environmental management, behavioral and social science, energy and transportation, and chemistry.

For more information about volunteering as a judge, call Stoesz at 766-9863 or email wyostatefair@gmail.com.

Additionally, there are other opportunities to volunteer, including setting up, breaking down and checking in competitors. For more information about those volunteer opportunities, email Peggie dePasquale at mdepasqu@uwyo.edu.

For more information on WSSF, click here.Public Art Idea Swaps Feb. 21 at UW

Members of the Laramie and University of Wyoming communities will have an opportunity to learn about -- and contribute to -- a campus public art plan Wednesday, Feb. 21.

Consultants Jennifer McGregor and Renee Piechocki, of the Public Art Network for Americans for the Arts, will be on campus that day to participate in idea swaps.

The first, for faculty and staff members, is noon-1 p.m. in Room 129 of the College of Business Building.

The second, for the community as well as faculty and staff, is 4-6 p.m. in Room 506 of Coe Library.

The consultants will present art strategies, project types and locations, programming and resources for art to energize the campus and engage students, faculty and staff. After a brief overview of the topics, the meetings will involve small-group discussions.

McGregor and Piechocki have conceived public art strategies for Laramie as well as the Rose Kennedy Greenway in Boston; San Pedro Creek in San Antonio, Texas; Cross Charlotte Trail in Charlotte, N.C.; and the city of Lancaster, Pa.

The UW Presidents Public Art Committee, which leads the development of the universitys public art plan, hosts the idea swaps, with funding from the Associated Students of UW.UWs Chalfoun to Receive First-Ever Stettenheim Service Award

Anna Chalfoun, a UW associate professor of zoology and an assistant leader for the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, will receive the first-ever Peter R. Stettenheim Service Award at the American Ornithological Societys annual meeting in mid-April. (Anna Chalfoun Photo)

Anna Chalfoun, a University of Wyoming associate professor of zoology, will receive the first-ever Peter R. Stettenheim Service Award at the American Ornithological Societys (AOS) annual meeting in mid-April.

Chalfoun, also an assistant leader for the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and a member of the UW Program in Ecology faculty, will receive an award certificate and honorarium at the meeting in Tucson, Ariz.

She termed the upcoming honor as an incredibly exciting surprise! for her service to the AOS, which resulted after the merger of the Cooper Ornithological Society (COS) and the American Ornithologists Union (AOU) in 2017. The AOS is an international society devoted to advancing the scientific understanding of birds; enriching ornithology as a profession; and promoting a rigorous scientific basis for the conservation of birds.

I love the people and the mission of the society, and have enjoyed being at the forefront of societal operations, says Chalfoun, who plans to attend the annual meeting in Tucson, Ariz. As scientists and faculty, moreover, there tends to be more criticism than accolades, so this was a nice acknowledgment to receive.

Stettenheim, for whom the award is named, was a noted ornithologist.

I have never met him, Chalfoun says of Stettenheim, who passed away in 2013. But, he sounds like a person who epitomized passion for ornithology and mentoring, and was a consistent contributor to the ornithological leadership.

The award recognizes an individual established in his or her career, and who has performed outstanding and extensive service to the AOS. The award recognizes people who may have served in elected or appointed positions, but also emphasizes volunteer contributions, mentoring and committee participation.

Chalfoun currently serves on the AOS Conservation Committee; was an AOS Council member from 2015-17; and was on the AOU-COS Merger Advisory Committee during 2016-17. She is currently revising the Birds of North America account for the Brewers sparrow and sage thrasher -- two sagebrush songbirds that she and her students study.

She served on the Scientific Program Committee of the North American Ornithological Congress, based in Washington, D.C., from 2014-16.

She was president-elect of the COS from 2015-17; was a member of the COS Board Nominations Committee in 2015; and was a COS Board member and student awards chair from 2011-14. Chalfoun started the student presentation feedback program for conference talks and poster presentations.

The Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit conducts ecological research to help better understand, manage and conserve animal populations. The units applied research program builds knowledge about fish and wildlife populations, and communities by seeking general solutions to specific management and conservation challenges.

Chalfouns research in her lab spans the disciplines of ecology, evolution, behavior and conservation biology; and diverse taxa, including birds, mammals and herpetofauna. Her main research focus is understanding the processes and factors that influence wildlife-habitat relationships, particularly in understanding why organisms select particular habitats and under what contexts such choices are adaptive.

In 2014, Chalfoun received a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. That year, she was among 102 researchers presented the award, the U.S. governments highest honor for science and engineering professionals in the early stages of their independent research careers.

Presidential Early Career Award winners are selected for their pursuit of innovative research at the frontiers of science and technology, and their commitment to community service as demonstrated through scientific leadership, public education or community outreach.The US 369th Infantry Regiment "Harlem Hellfighters" band landed in France in 1918, bringing the joy of jazz to a continent demoralised by war. (Photo: AFP)

They came to fight in the mud against the Germans in a war approaching its end - but their arrival also marked the start of a sweeter, cultural conquest.

A hundred years ago on Monday, the 369th Infantry's "Harlem Hellfighters Band" gave what is said to have been the first jazz concert on European soil - in the northwestern French city of Nantes.

"When the band had finished and the people were roaring with laughter, their faces wreathed in smiles, I was forced to say that this is just what France needed at this critical moment," wrote one of the band members, Noble Sissle, in his memoirs.

On Monday (Feb 12) Nantes launches a series of concerts, conferences and exhibitions to mark the centenary of that legendary gig.

Among the guests of honour at Monday night's opening are three of the grandchildren of the orchestra's leader, Lieutenant James Reese Europe - the black American bandleader known as the "king of jazz".

CATCHING THE JAZZ BUG

After that night at Nantes's Theatre Graslin, Europe would never sound the same again.

It "turned France upside down", according to local press reports from the time.

"The 'Jazz germ' had hit them," Sissle wrote, "and it seemed to find the vital spot."

The 369th Infantry was one of the four African American regiments sent from the racially segregated Unites States to fight under French command.

James Reese Europe "was the first African American officer to lead troops in a wartime attack," said Matthieu Jouan, head of the "100 Years of Jazz" commemorations in Nantes.

The officer also put together the 40-strong band which included "some of the best of the time", Jouan added.

When they were not fighting at the front, they played to entertain the troops and locals.

"People went crazy everywhere they toured to," said Jouan.

MUSIC FROM NO MAN'S LAND

The 369th Infantry received the Croix de Guerre French military decoration for bravery.

France also awarded the Legion d'Honneur to 171 members of the regiment for liberating the village of Sechault, where a monument to them now stands.

Lieutenant Europe composed one of his best-known tunes, "One Patrol in No Man's Land", while lying injured in hospital.

He returned from the war a hero, only to die months later in May 1919 at the age of 39 - stabbed in the neck by one of his bandmates.

The headlines in the American press read: "The king of jazz is dead," said Jouan.

But the officer's death coincided, he added, with the rise of three great musical stars: Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet.

The jazz age had begun.Vietnam currently has a wind power capacity of 140MW and is planning to reach 6,000MW by 2030

The first phase of the investment will cost about $650 million and consist of three near-shore farms with 142MW of capacity in Bac Lieu, 98MW in Soc Trang, and 100MW in Ca Mau province, all in southern Vietnam.

The second phase (360MW) will also be built in these three provinces and construction will begin when the first phase concludes.

Jormsup Lochaya, chairman of Superblock Pcl. said that the construction of these projects has already begun and expects the sites to be operational by 2020.

Vietnams population is very young and the growing economy and industries will increase power consumption by 10 per cent annually, making it an important market.

Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have similar problems and Vietnamese people want clean and cheap energythis is driving the renewable energy growth.

Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have similar problems and Vietnamese people want clean and cheap energythis is driving the renewable energy growth, Jormsup said, adding that costs are much lower and that the Vietnamese government policy on renewable is clear.

Vietnam currently has a wind power capacity of 140MW, with a goal to reach 6,000MW by 2030, according to government data.

Financing for the Vietnamese projects will come from its turnkey partner, a state-owned Chinese construction company, and the sites will be built on land leased for 49 years. The area is near existing transmission lines, the remnants of a stopped coal-fired power project.

Jormsup said Superblock was considering additional investment in a 50MW solar farm in Vietnam and would make a full decision by the second quarter of this year.

Next to Vietnam, Jormsup said Superblock plans to expand wind and solar capacity in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The company is targeting a revenue growth of 25 per cent each year and to have overseas revenue contributions climb to 20-30 per cent.

Thailand is the biggest solar power producer in Southeast Asia, having broken into the global top 15 in 2016 with a capacity of more than 3,000MW, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).Department of Education: Lessons from Finland

A team from the Department of Education have concluded their three day educational visit to Finland. The team comprised of Senior Executive Officer; Dympna Holmes and Education Advisers; Stuart Borastero and Christopher Gomila. The visit aimed to get a behind the scenes insight on the successes of the Finnish Education system.

Finlands education system is regarded as one of the most successful education systems in the world, with countries such as Singapore looking at Finland in order to improve their successful but rigid system.

The visit allowed the team access into a number of Finnish Schools and the leading Vocational Studies college in Finland, this was coupled with academic lectures and meetings aimed at finding out what makes the system run so effectively.

Teaching and Learning

Unsurprisingly the team found that at the core of the Finnish system was the central focus on the teaching and learning processes. All training and professional development is targeted at improving the understanding and quality of the teaching and learning processes that take place in lessons. Teachers are constantly asked to question how best children learn and how they can improve the quality of learning that takes place in their classroom. There is a huge emphasis on co-teaching and co-planning with every child receiving an almost individualised pathway for their education. Children are nurtured so they become the citizens of tomorrow.

Curriculum

The central Finnish curriculum is designed to allow teachers to flourish in their creative approach towards teaching and learning. The central curriculum is distilled by the school and its teachers to ensure that they develop happy, responsible and resilient self motivated learners. The lack of high stake exams from the ages of 6 through to 18 means that students are nurtured in a successful and less stressful environment throughout their educational journey. The curriculum builds learners that see the value of learning and take responsibility for their academic success.

Pastoral Care

The Finnish Anti-Bullying scheme ranks amongst the best in the world. It defines bullying as systematic and aggressive behaviour against an individual who cannot defend themselves from the actions of the perpetrator. The program focuses on working with the bully, the victim and the bystanders. The key philosophy being that bystanders are the most powerful way of eradicating bullying.

Vocational Studies

Students wishing to follow a vocational route can do so in Finland as from the end of their compulsory education at age 16. Up to 50% of students attend specialized Vocational Colleges who deliver a wide range of vocational options very similar to those being planned for the Gibraltar College. These vocational courses offer students the opportunity of developing skills for work by means of work placements at local employers who are key to the setup of these colleges.

Learning Communities

The entire Finnish educational system is setup to nurture communities of learning. Teachers have lunch with their students so that they develop social skills and can model positive behaviours. Students can choose how they learn best in a relaxed environment and are taught at an early age to value those choices. Parents support and value the teaching profession which in turn allows teachers to focus on teaching and learning throughout the school year.

Key Lessons

The visit has provided the Department of Education with a number of lessons which will gradually be implemented across our schools for the benefit of all of our students. The contacts nurtured during this visit will allow the Department of Education to coordinate the exchange of students, staff and training over the coming years. It is an exciting time for education in Gibraltar and the lessons learnt from Finland have served as reinforcement that we are heading in the right direction with regards to Vocational education and have given us direction in other areas with exciting potential.

Minister for Education, the Hon John Cortes, said: We continue to look at ways of improving Education in Gibraltar and we are reaching out beyond England to explore possibilities to achieve an Education system that is second to none.Homeland Enemy of the State Season 7 Episode 1 Editors Rating 4 stars * * * *  Previous Next  Photo: Jacob Coppage/SHOWTIME

What does Homeland look like without Peter Quinn? Thats the question on my mind, as the fan favorite died protecting Carrie Mathison and the president-elect in last years season finale. The show has survived major cast upheaval before  who could forget the departure of Damian Lewis?  but pulling it off twice is easier said than done. Thankfully, the signs are good so far: Enemy of the State is a strong season premiere that allows for great work by Claire Danes. Its still a bit unclear what the story will look like this year, but rather than a foreign threat, it seems the major enemy will be a U.S. government mad with power and paranoia. Read parallels to our current POTUS as you please.

Enemy of the State presents a commander-in-chief going to war with her own country, looking to punish anyone who may have remotely been behind the attempt on her life. Saul Berenson is in jail; Carrie is living at her sisters house. Of course, Carrie cant sit by and watch President Keane dismantle the country shes worked so hard to protect. To disrupt whats happening, shes reached out to a new character named Senator Sam Paley (played by the always-welcome Dylan Baker), and much of this episode focuses on the spy games needed to get one of her contacts in touch with the politician  and, of course, how poorly those games can all explode in her face.

Before then, we learn that 200 individuals were detained in the probe investigating the attack on Keane, including Saul, whos still behind bars. Carrie is unemployed, marches are being held to Free the 200, and theres a sentencing hearing at the Washington Navy Yard for one of the masterminds of the assassination attempt, General McClendon. He doesnt recognize Keanes authority, even in a courtroom: He tries to get in his little jab by only sitting when the male judge tells him to. Keane doesnt back down, though, noting that the U.S. government executes people for the kind of treason he perpetrated.

We also learn that Brett OKeefe, the loudmouth political personality based quite a bit on Alex Jones, has been on the run. He suggested that the assassination attempt was a hoax, and now theres a warrant out for his arrest. The development of Brett is interesting because hes clearly a bit of a troll  we know (and he knows) that it wasnt a hoax, and his references to Keanes menopause are gross  but hes not wrong about the abuses of power being wielded in the highest office in the land. And so, hes no longer just the two-dimensional villain he was last season. It will be intriguing to see where this character goes next.

Meanwhile, Carrie schedules a clandestine meeting in a restaurant kitchen with Paley, who working with her to reveal Keanes illegal activities. Carrie reveals that her source is finally willing to go on the record, but it may be too late: Paleys committee investigation has moved on, unless this source has information about Keanes right-hand man, David Wellington. Carrie tells Paley to arrange for a closed-session testimony, and then drops the big secret: Her source is in the FBI, hes interrogated 43 of the 200 detainees, and so far not one of them has been connected to the assassination. Nothing, she says. Nothing.

After Paley agrees to a closed session, Carrie puts her plan into motion, checking into a hotel that she then promptly leaves. (Setting an alibi, perhaps.) She changes her clothes and puts on a wig, and then checks into another hotel under the name Lisa Salter, leaving a key for her husband at the front desk. But when her FBI contact, a guy named Dante Allen, gets the key, Carrie quickly realizes that he has a tail. She ditches the tail by claiming that the mysterious man exposed himself by the ladies room, but its too late. Dante has been tracked, so its time to move.

Meanwhile, David Wellington informs President Keane that McClendon wont be killed for his sedition. Shes unsatisfied, and demands that David do something about it. He has to fix it. Did the president of the United States just order the death of a man sentenced to life by our legal system? Wow.

After a quick trip back to OKeefes story line, where he discovers he basically has friends everywhere, David goes to meet Saul in jail. Its Mandy Patinkins only scene of the night, but its also the best one. Hes so good at playing angry suspicion. David offers Saul a deal: As a gesture of goodwill, they want to make him the National Security Advisor. Saul has some demands, though: He wants complete access to POTUS and the immediate release of most of the detainees. David knows Keane will never agree. Its nonnegotiable. And Patinkin kills the best line of the episode: I will not carry water or make excuses for a woman who cant rise above her own vindictiveness.

Meanwhile, Josie Mathison is helping out her aunt by stealing the keys to her mothers office for a meeting between Dante and Senator Paley. (Anyone else having bad flashbacks to Dana Brody?) We then get a little development for Dante, who will clearly be a major character going forward, including a reference to someone who got away in Kabul four years ago. Maybe this season will go international after all? Carrie makes the boneheaded decision to not tell Dante that Paley is coming, so when he shows up, Dante is pissed and refuses to go on the record. You never saw me, he says. You never met me. When Carrie tries to block the door, he throws her to the ground.

Carries night gets worse when she gets home, where her sister Maggie and brother-in-law Bill are waiting and furious: They came home from date night early, only to find baby Frannie alone with Josies pot dealer friend. Maggie wonders if Carrie is off her meds and on the edge of another episode. Shes been down this road before, and she recognizes the signs: Another vast conspiracy? And Carrie is the only one who can bring it to light? Carrie calls her brother-in-law a collaborator, but swears that shes on her meds and in her right mind.

And then we learn how far Carrie is truly willing to go. Under her orders, Max set up cameras to surveil David in his own house. Yikes. As Carrie watches the Keanes right-hand man sulk to the evening news, McClendons fate is revealed: While hes searched for custody, hes poisoned and killed. The president of the United States just assassinated her greatest enemy. Theres no turning back now.

Other Notes

 Enemy of the State was directed by the shows most consistent filmmaker, Lesli Linka Glatter, who has helmed 19 episodes. It was co-written by someone just as closely associated with the show (executive producer Alex Gansa) and a newcomer, Debora Cahn, whos written The West Wing and Vinyl.

 Its good to see strong character actors in supporting roles this year. If youre wondering where you know Linus Roache (David Wellington), he played Thomas Wayne in Batman Begins and starred on Law & Order for a few years. Youll surely recognize Dylan Baker (Senator Paley), whos got more than 120 acting credits, and Morgan Spector (Dante Allen) has appeared Boardwalk Empire and Person of Interest. They should all be solid additions for a season thatll be sorely missing Rupert Friend.

 Good to know: Carries workout routine includes Final Thought by Kamasi Washington on the treadmill.

 How long do you think Homeland will stay stateside? Will they get the Keane stuff out of the way and then move on to an international crisis, or is this the arc for the entire season? Place your bets.This show really doesnt work when the ladies all get along, does it? It certainly doesnt work when theyre all pretending to get along to avoid conflict. I mean, we have an episode where Porsha and Mama Joyce sit down and have a peaceful lunch with some brussels sprouts and no ones wig is snatched off. What is happening here? Who is interested in this? I hope theyre all going to get into some fun in Barcelona because otherwise the rest of this season will be a snoozefest.

Its still the night of Kandis magazine party and Porsha is revealing the last bit of information on Will. Porsha heard that Will is an opportunist and hes currently dating someone else. Cynthia says that since shes started dating Will, her friends have had opinions about him and shes always defended him. If you start dating someone and one of your friends wont stop talking shit, you probably got a hater for a friend. If all your friends say something, your boyfriend aint shit.

After Will whisks Cynthia away, Kim stands around talking about how everyone said her relationship wasnt gonna work, but look at her now, 100 kids later and happy. Well, Kim, your husbands main job is sitting in the car while you get drunk.

In the car home, Will asks Cynthia what the big problem is. She tells him that people are saying that hes an opportunist. His answer is, What opportunity am I gonna get?

Bitch.

Thats the wrong answer.

If you asked your boyfriend, Are you cheating on me? and he answered with, Who would I cheat with? Youd be like, This chump is cheating on me. When a man answers your question with a question of his own, guess what? Hes on some shit. And the answer to What opportunity am I gonna get? is easy: Youre on The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Youre on national television. You were apparently on The Steve Harvey Show wearing a ridiculous beard. You like to be on television. Cynthia, of course, is more focused on him being offended than really getting to the bottom of the question. Will tells her that he isnt seeing anyone and Cynthias dumb ass buys it.

Porsha heads to lunch with Mama Joyce and Mama Joyce is uncharacteristically pleasant. She just wants to know the truth of the whole Phaedra thing. Porsha couldnt have thought it was true. She tries to play it off like she believed her friend. Its one thing to believe what someone tells you, but its another thing to go around telling the lie to the person its about. You could have just gotten the info from Phaedra, believed it, and not hung out with Kandi again. Instead, you threw it in Kandis face like you believed it was true. Mama Joyce is still mad at Phaedra for introducing Kandi to Todd and the whole  yknow, drugging and raping thing. Porsha and Mama Joyce reach a peace and Mama Joyce encourages Porsha to reach out to Kandi. Im sure that will go well.

Before we come back from the commercial break, there is a FUNDAMENTALLY WEIRD Black Panther commercial. It puts Melissa from RHONJ and Gizelle from RHOP in the background of the casino scene and posits that they were there in the background as they react to the fight sequences and catcall TChalla.

WHO IS THIS FOR? My mom? Im pretty sure my mom would go to Black Panther already and wouldnt need the endorsement of the Real Housewives. What if someone goes to Black Panther and they think theyre going to see Real Housewives? Who. Is. This. For.

Moving on. NeNe gets together with Cynthia at a steakhouse. Cynthia starts talking shit about NeNe before the waiter is done finishing their orders. Do you think the waiter just walked away or waited until they were done bickering?

NeNe warns Cynthia not to be so protective and trusting when it comes to men because men are trash. Cynthia proposes a trip so she can cool off her boy-crazy ways and get in some girl time. She suggests  Barcelona! Eva is invited for contractual reasons and why not invite Kim and Marlo too? NeNe starts giving everyone Spanish names, but she refuses to give one to Kim and just calls her Dumb Dumb with a Wig instead.

Kenya heads to the doctor when her cousin arrives. Her cousin doesnt even know what theyre doing there. Is she holding open the speculum? Kenya is six weeks late. Ooooooooooh, Kenya. Alright, honey. Im just gonna let you be excited because youre clearly setting up for your exit from the show and this is all youve wanted. Im also going to let you insist that you and your husband are banging twice a day even though you dont live together. Kenya does a urine test and a blood test. Shes had some issues with her fertility, but sure, the 46-year-old woman with the husband living across the country is pregnant. Shes not going on the Barcelona trip because she has to wait on her blood-test results because her urine test was inconclusive.

Cynthia decides to go out for dinner with Peter because shes a glutton for punishment. She wants to know why Peter didnt say hi to her at Kandis party while she was with Will. Um  because youre divorced, Cynthia? She asks Peter for advice and he tells her just to listen to what her friends are saying. Cynthia clearly wants too much from her ex-husband and wants to keep their relationship flirty and open in case things fall apart in a little bit.

Its time for Porshas No Beef Vegan Dinner, another complicated party name and theme. The dress code is boho chic because  it is. Porsha is wearing an all-white off-the-shoulder bandage dress. Very boho chic. Marlo is the first to arrive and she makes herself at home by sampling all the dishes. Sheree shows up and shes followed by Kim with another red cup while Kroy sits in the driveway with 13 of their children. Shamea is there just trying to get that peach.

Theyre all doing shots and enjoying a hookah when the conversation turns to Cynthia, so theyre all talking about how naive and trusting Cynthia is when she finally arrives. A hush falls over the crowd as she walks in. Marlo tries to get some info out of Cynthia about the whole situation and Shamea asks if Peters presence was making her a little shaky. They all immediately think that Cynthia is still in love with Peter. (She is.)

Enough of that. Its time to discuss the Barcelona trip, but an all-out war breaks out between Marlo and Kim over Kroys invite. Its a girls trip! Kroy shouldnt be invited on principle! Its all left up in the air.

Cut to the packing montage for the trip. Gregg spills some wine on himself while hes watching NeNe pack and he wipes it up with a pillow. Porsha and Sheree are heading to the airport together. NeNe and Cynthia are riding to the airport together. Kim isnt going to make the trip and she cant bear to be without him.

Hopefully, theyll get into some trouble in Barcelona to make this interesting. Dont let me down, ladies.Mike Milosh of Rhye. Photo: Scott Dudelson/Getty Images

The swooning strings that introduce Rhyes 2013 track Open are yearning and seductive, a supple crystallization of gloom and eros that makes for a promising first impression. Led by the soft-voiced crooner Mike Milosh, Rhye managed to typify a particular sort of man in the mid-aughts: sensitive, deeply aware of sensuality, and endlessly horny. The cover of the groups debut album, Woman, was a nude portrait of Miloshs then-wife. The album hardly lives up to the first few seconds of Open, delivering a slog of forgettable, quasi-soulful tracks that at the time fell under the umbrella of the inescapable genre of post-R&B. And while it was literally the product of a joke made on Twitter, the idea of post-R&B  known at various points as hipster R&B or PBR&B  served as an attempt at the kind of cultural mishmash that the eras optimism called for. Rhyes latest, Blood, is something of a repudiation of those hopes. The albums hollow offering speaks to the limitations of dousing campy vocals in reverb, and marks something of an end to an era. Today, it seems, theres little patience for white dudes making derivative love songs.

The post-R&B phenomenon started around 2011, when a mysterious artist from Toronto called the Weeknd released the free mixtape House of Balloons. The project featured electronic flourishes, hints of dub and techno, and a druggy atmosphere atypical of popular R&B at the time. It also attracted an atypical audience. Now indie-rock fans, a largely white audience, were being drawn to what sounded a whole lot like R&B. Writing for the Awl in 2011, Jozen Cummings described the denomination as a sort of musical segregation: Calling it hipster R&B is a nice way of saying its R&B that white people like (black hipsters notwithstanding), and heres my problem with that: Its myopic, lazy, and it sounds to me like a form of musical segregation thats not entirely based on genre.

Rhythm and blues, the genre definition that prefigures the shorthand R&B, was created in 1949 by the record executive Jerry Wexler as a replacement for race records, a designation given to music made by black artists. Its a relic of the music industrys steadfast use of commercial taxonomies that organize consumers along racial lines. In 2011, the acclaimed R&B producer Ivan Barias petitioned the Grammys to create the Urban Contemporary category as a way of crediting artists who were making music influenced by R&B, but that fell outside of what the genre had become traditionally known for. Im trying to bridge that gap between the future and the past, the producer Tricky Stewart told the Fader about his support for the category. Even without the music industrys early designation of the genre as race records, R&B is in fact rooted in black musical traditions, which made white artists early forays into the genre, think of John B. or Justin Timberlake, exciting in their time. It symbolized a sort of idealized racial harmony, where a white guy could sing for a black audience and vice versa. Never mind that the white guy is more commercially viable thanks to long-standing stigmas against black artists. But even so, those overtures into black music were marked by white artists seeking approval, or a sense of authenticity, from the black progenitors of a sound.

The post-R&B phenomenon moved in a different direction, blending much of the indie worlds sensibilities with long-standing tropes from R&B. (Its worth noting that many of the flourishes of indie music can be traced back to blues, gospel, and disco, too). You had artists like FKA Twigs and Miguel making out-of-this-world love songs that didnt quite fit in any genre. And Frank Ocean could do just about anything musically and then, out of the blue, knock you over with his falsetto. What was happening in music during the post-R&B phenomenon was more likely an evolution of pop music, borrowing from the distinct sound of R&B while making something altogether new. By the time Rhye released Woman in 2013, what was initially described as post-R&B had become a defining element of all popular music. Rhyes revivalist shtick was the favorite parlor trick of a particular era, and they managed to hit all the right notes.

Blood picks up where Woman left off, with Milosh in awe of womankind while whispering sweet nothings into the wind. Except this time the group is inspired by a different ingenue, Miloshs current wife, who is similarly photographed in the nude on the records cover. Album opener Waste is built on a shuffling bass line and oozing funk guitars that speak to the upgrade in the groups production. All of Blood is masterfully engineered thanks to the work of seasoned producers Thomas Bartlett and Justin Parker. After the release of Woman, Rhye toured with a full band, and brings much of that organic energy to this latest record, with distinct arrangements offering the only noticeable separation between tracks otherwise built on Miloshs hushed whisper. The result is something like a sampler of Al Green and Sade covers. The latter, whom Milosh confoundingly claims he is no fan of is far more adept at building emotional textures than Rhye, and such shortcomings are harder to ignore than five years ago. With the integration of the more experimental wing of R&B into pop, Rhyes music fails to move past anything but misfired replication. For all of Miloshs longing whispers, Blood never feels like anything more than posturing  a guy whos heard one too many R. Kelly ballads trying to seduce you at a bar. A glance at Bloods lyrics reveal a frustrating overreliance on Seussian rhyme patterns and a sometimes bizarre affinity for sensual double entendres. Theres blood, trembling, surrendering, and licking of wounds, all of which serve to make sex seem more like hunting than loving.

The post-R&B phenomenon, like many internet-driven trends, was heavy on aesthetics and light on substance. There are already plenty of artists taking the sound of R&B to new realms, consider Solange or Kelelas most recent releases, with the latter serving as an example of R&B leaning into electronic music. And pop music has never been more eclectic thanks to the democratizing force of online streaming. We now have Bruno Mars in full superstar mode. Rhye shows that artists who ignore the contours and subtleties of their sounds originators will ultimately have trouble finding long-term appeal. Five years after their debut dazzled the music press, Rhyes latest manages to prove just how much things have changed.The Chi Today Was a Good Day Season 1 Episode 5 Editors Rating 3 stars * * *  Previous Next  Photo: Matt Dinerstein/SHOWTIME

After a weeklong break, The Chi returns with Today Was a Good Day, an episode titled in homage to Ice Cubes sleepy 1992 banger. Beyond that shout out, though, this is an episode that focuses on the quotidian dealings of its characters and their interactions both mundane and perverse.

Today Was a Good Day opens with Emmett parkour-ing his way through the streets on his way to work. The Chi has shown itself to have a Spike Leeesque nostalgia for the arcane play of children outdoors. (Remember how an earlier episode featured children tumbling on abandoned mattresses?) Here, a group of girls is jumping rope, which ensnares Emmett as he races by. Perhaps its meant as commentary on the ways that children are rendered homebound by violence in the streets. It feels a little anachronistic to see children playing outside like this, which is probably more telling of my own character than that of the show.

We quickly learn that Reg keeps good on his promise from the previous episode, which was ultimately a warning delivered to his younger brother, Jake: Sitting in an inflatable hot tub, surrounded by hotties and a cornucopia of other vices, Reg informed Jake that he would have to pay for the gun he stole. This week, Reg puts his brother to work in his crew as they steal an impressive fleet of semi-automatic weapons from an empty train yard  an endeavor so routine that the gang does not even wait for nightfall. Jake steals away with a gun of his own, which, considering the nigh-sadism of his older brother, honestly feels like a sensible decision. Last week, when Reg ordered one of the female hot-tub-ettes over to his brother, I felt more than a little queasy about what the half-naked woman planned to do with him. But instead of seducing Jake, she kicked him in the groin. If I had an older brother who was prone to spontaneous hot-tub parties, threatened me with clippers, and instructed a woman to physically assault me, I would probably feel safer with a gun too. The first thing Jake does with the weapon is take a photo and presumably post it. Im sure this will come back to bite him, and soon.

Im incredibly frustrated by the shows handling of Jake and Regs relationship. Brandon was capable of fraternal protectiveness and empathy for Kevin, even after the youngster almost got him killed. Why does Brandon have more empathy for a boy that tried to kill him than Reg does for his own brother? It seems indicative of The Chis refusal to allow its characters to veer outside of their assigned good or evil boxes. It felt more likely to me that Reg, who is himself ensnared in street life, would instead work to protect his brother from it. The pair is also conspicuously parent-less. If Reg is raising his brother, why does he have so little impulse to protect him?

From Reg and Jake, the episode moves on to Brandon and his cousin as they attempt relaxation and serenity in a backyard. Its a nice moment of quietude. I most enjoy this show when the comedy is moved to the fore, and scenes like this one that focus on non-dysfunctional interactions between the men.

Until Brandon and the boys visit the corner store, which allows Maisha time and opportunity to steal Kevins bike. The handling of Maishas character so far is among the shows worst impulses. There are so many situations that could have been drawn out for their comedic potential, but Maisha is not one of them. When Kevin later winds up at her home, he has a little bit of sympathy and offers her a quick hand-hold session as well as the bike. He only does so after viewing the relatively bare apartment that Maisha calls home. Its not enough to allow the briefest glimpse into her home life, however. When she opened to door to greet Kevin, I wasnt sure whether the child on her hip was her own or a younger sibling. The character has been mishandled in a way that felt wholly irresponsible to me: It seems like the shows approach to Maisha is predicated on the notion that her romantic urges  which The Chi makes sexual, especially in comparison to the relatively innocent crushes and antics of the other kids  are comedic. We are supposed to understand that as a bigger girl, she is undesirable and deserves to be treated as such.

Elsewhere, Ronnie reminds Tracy that it is her fault that he murdered Coogie and was subsequently shot. She responds with textbook coldness and flippancy, returning her dead sons cell phone and kicking Ronnie out on the streets as he bleeds from his shotgun wound. Its such a callous and almost emotionless moment for this woman, who has very recently lost a child. Tracy indirectly demanded that Ronnie avenge her sons death, then put him out of her home while he was bleeding. This show has very little empathy to extend to its black female characters and its becoming more than a little tiresome.

This weeks episode also brings a block party, finally drawing all of the characters to one location. The Chi has previously fumbled its attempts at realistic party scenarios, but this one succeeds. The block party feels lively and pleasant, playing the old-school songs Ive come to think of as synonymous with these types of gatherings. Of course, its Reg who threatens the fun, yanking Jake away from his friends and nearly pounding a DJ if he doesnt play King L or other, more contemporary bops. I dont know how to feel about a character who threatens the physical well-being of a DJ at a public, family-friendly gathering, except to kind of hate him. Is that what The Chi wants us to think? How many more indiscretions until hes truly beyond redemption? Its only Q, the soigne old timer, perennially dressed for a Cuban vacation, who ousts Reg and prevents a dustup.

Meanwhile, Jerrika, dressed like an extra from The Women of Brewster Place, runs into Brandon. He spent earlier parts of the episode stressing over the plight of their relationship, so the idea that she already has a new man is a little inconceivable. Plot twist: The new man is, seemingly, her real man. When Jerrikas beau says, So you must be the guy who keeps calling, a teary Brandon asks in response, How long have I been the guy?

If Jerrika has moved on from their relationship in a weeks time, shes kind of an unscrupulous bitch, but the show has already established most of its female characters as such. But if she had been playing Brandon all along, does that mean his flirtations with his boss get a pass? Hes not really an almost-adulterer, because Jerrika had already stepped out on the relationship. If Jerrika does indeed have another man, I need details. She lived with Brandon! Where did her real man think she was going every night? Shes also a working woman, so how did she find the time for two full-time relationships? Jerrikas extraneous love affair is the plot point I wanted to see more of here.

I am, however, bored of the shows deep investment in the innate goodness of Brandon. Reg nearly assaults a DJ for spinning songs that arent suited to his tastes, yet Brandon confronts his younger brothers killer and his two-timing girlfriend within a half-hours time and barely raises his voice. Still, I enjoyed this episode  especially the block party and the revelation of Jerrikas real boyfriend. The interactions between the men were well-crafted, and thats what the show has proven to be its strong point. The groupings of younger boys (Kevin, Poppa, and Jake) as well as the older ones (Brandon and his cousin) show a knack for understanding and recreating the inner lives of men. If The Chi isnt going to do its female characters justice, it might as well just focus more on those group dynamics instead.Nina Hoss, in Returning to Reims.

Dont worry, a director says to an actress at the beginning of Returning to Reims: Its not theater. Its a knowing wink  Katy, the actress, is recording the voice-over for a documentary, so shes free to make mistakes, to stop and go back and rerecord, released from the stages obligation to get it right the first time around. But of course, here we are at St. Anns Warehouse, settled in, cell phones off, ready to experience the new play in which Katy and her director Paul are characters.

It turns out however that the line is more than an easy laugh. Its  to steal Pauls strained description of his own film work  multilayered. The line has the feeling of a meta-acknowledgement on the part of Returning to Reims own director, the German auteur Thomas Ostermeier, who created this intellectually ambitious, uneven but fascinating, often anti-theatrical piece of theater by adapting the memoir Retour a Reims by the French philosopher Didier Eribon. Hang in there, Ostermeier is saying to us: This thing Ive made might not be theater Lets find out.

Ostermeier, artistic director of the Schaubuhne in Berlin since 1999, began his directing career as a young provocateur, directing the German premieres of edgy, shock-laced dramas by contemporary playwrights like Nicky Silver, David Harrower, and Mark Ravenhill. He soon gained international recognition for his visceral adaptations of the classical canon  from Brecht and Maeterlinck to a brutal, mud-covered Hamlet and a vision of Ibsens A Dolls House that ended not with a door slam but a gunshot (Nora marked the directors American premiere in 2004 at BAM, where he recently returned with a savage, hard-rock Richard III). On the surface, the contained, idea-driven Returning to Reims can feel like a textural departure for Ostermeier. Voices are seldom raised, the utilitarian set by Nina Wetzel is a typical modern recording studio, all drab brown curtains and electrical equipment, and theres no dirt, blood, or fluids to be seen beyond the bottle of water Katy drinks from as she reads calmly into her microphone. So what led the punk-rock German director to the pensive French philosopher?

Probably Karl Marx. Eribons book examines his own painful relationship with the working-class family into which he was born  and especially his estrangement from his aggrieved, bigoted father. Hes meditating on Europes 20th-century class struggle and how it has warped into this eras frightening shift rightward. As for Ostermeier, his directorial style, which he calls new realism, is meant as a kind of expose of capitalist violence and inequity. Memoirist and theater-maker are both fascinated and enraged by, in Eribons words, processes of domination  the ways in which the haves and have-nots, the oppressors and the oppressed, have come to be. Returning to Reims is thus a particular (and particularly tricky) breed of contemporary drama: the How Did We Get Here Play. Ostermeier is searching, via Eribons reflections, for the how and the why behind the what-the-fuck of our current moments toxic tidal wave of right-wing populism.

If this all sounds too chewy and theoretical to make a compelling play, dont be turned off just yet. Ostermeier knows it, and for at least the first half of Returning to Reims he actually uses the lack of conventional drama to craft an enthralling, prodigiously smart piece of live performance thats part theater, part audiobook, part film. The German actress Nina Hoss (star of Showtimes Homeland and a Schaubuhne ensemble member since 2013) is magnetic as Katy, an actress whose knitted brow and thoughtful cadences reveal how much she truly cares about the material shes been hired to read. And for over an hour of Ostermeiers two-hour intermissionless show, read is really all she does. Its a daring choice, and an effective one.

The premise of Returning to Reims is that Paul, the director, has made a documentary based on Eribons memoir (both play and documentary, it should be mentioned, are in English, and the crystalline translation of Eribons text is by Michael Luce). Pauls film begins by following Eribon as he travels to see his mother after his fathers death, then expands into a cinematic examination of todays political landscape in Europe. Ostermeier himself and Sebastien Dupouey are in fact responsible for Pauls movie  a moody, beautifully shot mini-documentary that combines footage of the real Eribon with bleak panoramas of the poverty-stricken suburbs of Reims, shots of Paris where the young gay writer dreamed of re-creating himself, and clips from historical film and news footage (the evocative accompanying music is by Nils Ostendorf).

Katy starts into recording the narration for Pauls film almost immediately, so for a long time, what were watching on stage is a film above (the upper portion of the sets back wall features a large projection screen) and a lone actress below, quietly speaking Eribons text into a microphone. And its mesmerizing. As delivered by Hoss  her solemn face illuminated by a tiny video monitor where she sees what we see on the big screen  the ideas of Returning to Reims take powerful, hypnotic hold. An image of Eribons father rises before us: the oldest of 12 children, a man defined by the poverty he could never escape, who worked two factory jobs, who came home drunk after going missing for two days and threw every glass bottle in the house against the wall; angry, helpless, abandoned by the political left as it moved from Communist ideals to neo-conservative pragmatism, left like carrion for the vultures of the National Front to snatch up; and a bitterly homophobic man who, when he finally saw his gay adult son, then a respected scholar, speaking on TV, broke down in tears, telling his wife, If theres any smartass who says anything to me about it  his sons sexuality  Ill smash his face in.

My father, explains Eribon through Katy, was overwhelmed by the realization that one of his sons had achieved a nearly unimaginable degree of social success. The old mans bigotry, however ingrained, was shaken by witnessing his child accomplish what to him seemed like a miracle: escaping his birth class. I began to realize, Katy murmurs into the microphone, that everything my father had been, which is to say everything I hold against him, all the reasons I had detested him, had been shaped by the violence of the social world.

Eribon is cracking open the political through the personal. We cant take on the system in the abstract, in all its unmanageable enormity, until we reckon with our own fathers  until were honest about where and who we came from, what privileges and privations built us. Ostermeier, who layers in resonances of Hamlet throughout Returning to Reims, is turning an encounter with a ghostly patriarch into a plea for truth and reconciliation. And such reconciliation must begin, as Hamlets meeting with the ghost does, with listening.

Unfortunately, in between recording sessions, theres little attention being paid in this studio, at least not by the most powerful player. Paul is idealistic and passionate  and very concerned with making a successful artistic contribution to the Resistance-with-a-capital-R  but hes also taking advantage of the studio manager Toni, a hard-up single dad, by attempting to use the space for free. And hes the kind of guy who mansplains the concept of mansplaining to Katy. The dramatic conflict  and the dramatic irony  of Returning to Reims bubbles up amongst these three creatives, who are all engaged in putting together a documentary that digs to the heart of the shame and resentment that stem from social inequality, but who are all, to varying degrees, failing to acknowledge the actual social dynamics at play in the room. Whether their tensions are economic (Paul and Toni) or gender-based (Paul and Katy) theyre caught in their own processes of domination. Katy, whos more than equal to the erudition of Eribons material, reveals her own particular programming in the manner in which she argues with Paul: she doesnt give up, but she also apologizes and qualifies. Shes been conditioned to hesitate by the same system thats conditioned Paul to hold forth with confidence.

If only these sections of personal conflict were as compelling as the stretches of Returning to Reims in which were left alone with Katy and Eribon. The writing in these conversational interludes often sounds clunky, weighed down as it tends to be with topical buzzwords (mansplaining mansplaining, though it paints Pauls character quickly, is a cheap laugh). Hoss is the only actor who remains utterly natural throughout. Bush Moukarzel as Paul and Ali Gadema as Toni are making valiant efforts, but they feel underdeveloped as they stand next to Hoss, an actress who communicates unknown depths with a momentary flicker of her eyes. Moukarzels Paul is frequently straining, especially in a few awkward moments in which Ostermeier decides to break the fourth wall, suddenly demanding that the audience be present in the room as if were a kind of TV studio audience. The plays second half begins with Toni, a talented aspiring rapper, performing two of his raps for us at Pauls insistence (Gadema is himself a poet and spoken-word artist and has been the front man for numerous bands). Though the content of Tonis rhymes is smart and relevant  Theres no democracy, its all an autocracy  the performances themselves have the feeling of a directorial grab for texture, a not-quite-successful attempt to spice things up on Ostermeiers part. It also doesnt help that Hoss never seems to register our presence in the way Toni and Paul do. I was grateful that she didnt: ironically, Moukarzel and Gademas reaching across the fourth wall feels weirdly distancing, whereas I felt utterly connected to the world Hoss was building with Eribon.

This may be because Returning to Reims is actually at its strongest when it whispers rather than shouts  when, like Hamlets father, it asks us to lend our serious hearing to what it shall unfold. Through the alchemy of Eribons writing and Hosss remarkable performance, the play quietly justifies itself as a work of theater. After all, how many of us in the audience might have discovered, read, and fully processed Eribons memoir on our own? A few at most  not me. But Ostermeier has brought us together to experience its painfully urgent ideas communally. In Elizabethan England, audiences spoke not of seeing a play, but of going to hear one. Theater requires us to listen as a community, to acknowledge ourselves as social beings and to reckon with the humanity of everyone involved  the woman next to you checking her program, the couple behind you who keep whispering, Katy, Paul, Toni, Eribon, Eribons father. Returning to Reims suggests that the only way through the dark is to face the ghosts, to face each other, and to take the time to listen.

Uptown at MTC, another artist  far more of a household name than Thomas Ostermeier  is working from a memoir to grapple with the diseases that riddle the body of our contemporary world. At least, thats what she thinks shes doing.

Eve Ensler rocketed to fame as both a writer and an activist in the mid-90s with The Vagina Monologues, which won her an Obie and has thus far been translated into 48 languages and performed in over 140 countries  not to mention on countless American college campuses every February since 1996. Im among the thousands of women about my age who performed in undergraduate productions of the play. As part of the audition, I recall being asked to act out an orgasm (it was probably a pathetic imitation of When Harry Met Sally, because Lord knows thats as close as Id gotten to the real thing). I was a nerdy college freshman and not particularly sure of myself, but even then I remember thinking, Theres something not right about this play. I couldnt yet articulate it, but all through the run of the show and the surrounding V-Day celebrations, it gnawed at me.

Now that feeling is back, thanks to the maudlin, self-obsessed In the Body of the World, Enslers new solo adaptation of her memoir of the same name, directed by Diane Paulus. No, its more than a gnawing: its outright frustration. But Im not 19 anymore, and Im ready to articulate it. Heres the thing: Ensler has had uterine cancer. Shes also done a good deal of humanitarian work, including helping to set up a supportive community for women survivors of violence in the Congo. She has suffered, and she has worked to change the world for the better. The first deserves sympathy, and the second, respect. But we are living in an age in which we too often feel that, because an artist has arguably accomplished Good Works in the world, we must deem their works of art Good. We allow seemingly irreproachable politics to create a cocoon around mediocre, problematic theater, shielding it from criticism as it hibernates in the warm, fuzzy bed of its own self-satisfaction.

And In the Body of the World is nothing if not self-satisfied and problematic. Enslers aim is to draw a parallel between the cancer she was diagnosed with in 2010 and the brutalities enacted upon womens bodies globally, as well as upon the Earth itself: Cancer threw me into the center of my bodys crisis, she says, The Congo threw me into the crisis of the world. She describes hearing hundreds of horror stories during her time in the Congo that all began to bleed together. The destruction of vaginas. The pillaging of minerals. The raping of the Earth. While the connection Ensler is attempting to draw between the disease of a single body and the ills of the world isnt in itself troubling, the fact that all her stories also seem to bleed together  into a kind of showy solipsism masquerading as impassioned vulnerability  is.

The play is a public therapy session by and for Ensler herself. Shes more interested in self-diagnosing (did her cancer come from tofu? From cheating or being cheated on? From bad reviews? From worrying every day for 56 years that I wasnt good enough?), self-celebrating (just wait till the lights come on and youre ordered to stand up and dance with her), and self-affirming (her therapist tells her that the chemo shes going to receive is for all the past crimes, for your father, for the rapists  [for] the badness that was projected onto you but was never yours) than she is in looking the actual cruelty of her disease, its randomness, straight in the eye. She spins disconcerting narratives around the cancer  shes never given birth, so was the tumor a way of making something? Was I making a trauma baby?  striving to ascribe to it and to her fight against it a moral meaning. She never reckons with the possibility that it might be meaningless.

Worse still, when she does step outside her own body to encounter the body of the world, theres almost a feeling of torture porn in her descriptions of the atrocities shes witnessed or had recounted to her. Near the end of the play, Ensler stands in a single spotlight, her face raised in almost beatific rapture, as she tells the story of what happened to a woman named Angelique in the Congo. The details are unbearably gruesome, and theres something utterly disturbing not just in the story itself but in both Enslers delivery and Pauluss staging. Why does it feel like Ensler is being sainted? Whose suffering are we being asked to feel for here  the victims or the actors? True empathy is one thing, and I have no doubt that Ensler possesses it, but the performance of empathy is something else, and it leaves an icky taste in the mouth, like artificial sweetener.

It might seem that a memoir is inherently egoistic territory, and perhaps in some ways it is. But there are forms of self-analysis, of self-questioning, that ultimately look outward, that teach a reader  or an audience member  about something more than the psychology of the memoirist. Ostermeiers interpretation of Eribon is in fact doing its work in the body of the world. In the end, Enslers play is really all about Eve.

Returning to Reims is at St. Anns Warehouse through February 25.

In the Body of the World is at City Center Stage I.Saoirse Ronan in Lady Bird. Photo: A24

Of this years nine Best Picture nominees, nearly all of them are well-situated to take home at least one Oscar, if not more. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is the front-runner to win both Best Actress for Frances McDormand and Best Supporting Actor for Sam Rockwell, while Darkest Hour looks like its cruising to a Best Actor victory for Gary Oldman. The Shape of Waters Guillermo del Toro is the pacesetter for Best Director, and that film will likely split some of the tech categories with Dunkirk. Get Out has heat in the Best Original Screenplay category after its Writers Guild Awards win this past weekend, while Call Me by Your Name is likely to take home the Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar, and Phantom Thread is assured of at least one victory in Best Costume Design.

There are two Best Picture contenders, though, that presently look like theyll go home empty-handed on Oscar night. One isnt surprising: The Post is the least-nominated film in that category, an awards-season underperformer that only managed one additional Best Actress nomination for Meryl Streep. It wont win either. A little more bracing is the current status of Lady Bird, one of the years most significant indie hits and a winner of multiple Golden Globes, including Best Comedy or Musical. Unless Greta Gerwigs acclaimed mother-daughter act pulls some sort of significant upset, the film is not likely to win in any of the five Oscar categories its nominated for.

Still, keep hope alive, Sacramento: While Lady Bird is not the front-runner in any category, its a strong No. 2 in some of those races, and there are narratives in play that mean the film could engineer a last-minute surprise. Here are the five Oscar categories that Lady Bird is contending in, as well as what the film has going both for it and against it.

Best Original Screenplay



Lady Bird wont win here, because  its competing in this category against the two strongest Best Picture contenders, The Shape of Water and Three Billboards, and every Best Picture winner since 2005 besides The Artist has also won a screenplay Oscar. If any dark-horse screenplay nominee is likely to prevail against those two titans, its probably Get Out, which notched Jordan Peele a win at the WGAs over the weekend in a race where Three Billboards was ineligible to compete.

Unless! The most analogous Oscar vehicle to Lady Bird is probably 2007s Juno, another contemporary, female-driven teenage comedy that was nominated in all the same categories as Lady Bird except for Best Supporting Actress. Junos sole Oscar win came for Diablo Cody in Best Original Screenplay, though I should note that she was absolutely the prohibitive favorite going into that night. Still, she and Gerwig share some similarities, including a star power that is unusual for contenders in this category. No woman has won the Best Original Screenplay Oscar since Cody, but the precedent is set.



Best Supporting Actress



Lady Bird wont win here, because  I, Tonya star Allison Janney appears to have this Oscar on lockdown. Shes won every pivotal award up until now, including the SAG statuette and the Golden Globe, has a flashier complicated-mom role than her Lady Bird competition Laurie Metcalf, and has cruised through this awards season looking like a million bucks. She just feels like a winner.

Unless! I, Tonya scored a few Oscar nominations but missed out on Best Picture, so we know that Lady Bird is better-liked, even if Metcalf has been this seasons bridesmaid. Its worth noting that the last three Best Supporting Actress winners repped their films sole Oscar win  that would be Boyhoods Patricia Arquette, The Danish Girls Alicia Vikander, and Fences star Viola Davis  so this category has something of a history as a consolation prize for films that are well-liked but not strong enough to be recognized elsewhere. (Then again, you could say that about I, Tonya, too.)

Best Actress



Lady Bird wont win here, because  Frances McDormand is almost certain to prevail for her ferocious work in Three Billboards. Shes won every televised award so far and she hails from a film that is a coin flip away from winning Best Picture.

Unless! Its worth noting that Lady Bird star Saoirse Ronan did win the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy, while McDormand triumphed across the aisle from her in Best Actress in a Drama. McDormand has also won one Oscar already and delivered a SAG speech where she coaxed voters to reward younger performers, ostensibly offering a license to vote for Ronan, who is on her third Academy Award nomination at age 23. Say it with me: Oscar loves an ingenue!

Best Director



Lady Bird wont win here, because  Guillermo del Toro is the man to beat. The good-humored Shape of Water helmer has taken home all the good hardware and won at the Directors Guild of America, which means hes almost certain to repeat with Oscar.

Unless! Do you remember when Natalie Portman introduced the five all-male nominees for Best Director at the Golden Globes? Of course you do. Oscar voters do, too.

Best Picture



Lady Bird wont win here, because  this increasingly seems to be a Shape/Billboards battle royale, with every other contender clawing for purchase. The Shape of Water won two crucial guild awards from DGA and the PGA, while Three Billboards won the top prize from the actors of SAG, which suggests strength with Oscars biggest voting body. Its also worth noting that Lady Bird couldnt muster up a Best Editing nomination, and no film has won Best Picture without a nod for its editing since 1980s Ordinary People (aside from Birdman, which used a one-take style that de-emphasized its editing.)

Unless! Best Picture uses a preferential ballot that is meant to reward a consensus choice: Its important to place No. 1 on many ballots, but it can be just as pivotal for your weighted score if you show up as every other persons No. 2. Lady Bird is a well-liked movie across the board that has not suffered any major backlash, which puts it in a good position here. Im not sure that a Get Out voter would put Three Billboards at No. 2 on his ballot, just as a Three Billboards voter might not put Get Out at No. 2 on her ballot, but both kinds of voters might put Lady Bird there. If enough of them do, maybe Greta Gerwigs film can stem its night of losses with the biggest win of all.The family of Lisa Holman has issued a statement expressing their thanks to the searchers who found the missing woman early Sunday.

Here's the complete statement:

"In lieu of the many requests for public appearances and interviews, the family of Lisa Holman would like to issue the following statement to be shared with all interested media outlets: Needless to say, the last two days have been very emotional for our family; Lisas rescue Sunday morning was definitely an answered prayer. Amazingly, she has suffered only a few broken bones and other minor injuries as a result of the accident. Her ability to withstand these injuries, the weather conditions, and the length of time in the woods is a testament to her resiliency.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the coordinated effort provided by the Pelham Police Department, Pelham Fire Department, and the Shelby County Sheriffs Office. They led this rescue mission not only with determined tenacity, but also with true compassion. They kept the family comforted and well informed while organizing the rescue efforts. We would also like to thank the following agencies who assisted in the search: Shelby County EMA, Chelsea Fire Department, Childersburg Rescue Squad, Alexander City Rescue Squad, Regional Paramedic Service, SAR K9s of Alabama, the American Red Cross, and Red Mountain Search Dog Association.

We would like to thank the literally hundreds of volunteers who offered their assistance throughout Saturday and Sunday. It was a team of these volunteers that finally reached Lisa on Sunday morning. Chelsea High School was instrumental in providing a staging area and bus transportation for the volunteers beginning at 5:30 a.m. Sunday morning. In addition to those who were able to physically show up, there were literally thousands of others lifting the entire effort up through prayer. We are grateful to be part of a close-knit community that never hesitated when their assistance was needed."

Searchers found Holman alive near the spot where she crashed her car. They found the 45-year-old woman in the woods. And she was able to walk out on her own to medics who were waiting to treat her injuries.

Holman had been missing since wrecking her car south of Birmingham.

We do want to let you know Ms. Holman was alert when we found her, and she was able to walk out of the woods to medical professionals standing by to treat her, Pelham police chief Larry Palmer posted on his departments facebook page about 11 oclock Sunday morning.

Holmans family alerted police when she failed to return home. Police say she crashed her car into a tree along Shelby County 36. They estimate the wreck happened about 9 oclock Friday night.

Holmans purse, shoes and phone were still inside the car.

We are still working to piece together the events of the past few days, Chief Palmer wrote in his post.

Searchers actively looked for Lisa Holman Saturday after officers found the car. Police say Holman was on her way home.

Her teenage children realized she never made it. They called their Dad who contacted police.

Firefighters, police officers and Shelby County Sheriffs deputies looked with other searchers and K9s most of the day.

They suspended the search Saturday night and went back to work Sunday morning.

We are so happy this situation had a good ending, the chief wrote. I want to personally thank everyone involved in the search for Lisa Holman. This was a true community effort from surrounding law enforcement agencies, to fire and rescue, to search teams, and volunteers.Opposition Leader Bill Shorten. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen The telling feature of the poll was not the one that got the most publicity. The big noise was about the partisan contest. The poll showed that the Turnbull government's share of the two-party preferred vote was up by 1 percentage point and Labor's was down one. In a poll with a margin of error of 2.4 per cent, it's pretty hard to convince yourself that this means anything, yet the obsessives among the political class applied the customary overinterpretation. Malcolm Turnbull's personal ratings were up too, so The Australian's interpretation was "PM surges" as "Coalition closes gap". But, intriguingly, while Turnbull's approval rating was up, so was Bill Shorten's. It's nothing to write home about because both remain unpopular. Yet the Prime Minister's net approval rating had improved from minus 25 to minus 14, and the Opposition Leader's from minus 24 to minus 18 compared with the last poll of last year. Is this because of their brilliant performances over the summer break? Or is it because of the summer break itself, where the political class and the media go into a torpor and the country goes on holiday? We can't be sure, but there's a strong chance that, when the political leaders shut up and disappear for a while, we think less harshly of them.

The independent pollster John Stirton has had a look at what he calls the "summertime effect" over recent decades. He emphasises that the size of the effect is tiny, yet whimsy moved him to describe voters' reactions to the pause in political hostilities this way: "In January we're relaxed and like you more than we did at the end of last year. In February we remember why we hate you." As the parliamentary hothouse heats up, the politicians lose themselves in the thrill of partisan conflict, mistaking the excited attention of the tiny perverted population of the Twitter terrarium for the wider world's interest and attention. The inhabitants of the terrarium adore furious partisanship where the people want co-operative problem-solving. Yet, before the year becomes far advanced, there are traces of the sort of humanity and decency that most Australians hope for in their leaders and representatives. Bill Shorten, recognising, as he put it, the "time for politicians to focus on the issues that matter to Australians, not the petty bickering of the Canberra bubble" made an important announcement: a Labor government would establish a national anti-corruption commission. This brings forward the inevitable day that the Coalition, too, will support this essential improvement to Australia's governance. And Turnbull this week addressed the report of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Some 16,000 people contacted the commission about cases of abuse in 4000 separate institutions. "Now that those stories have been told, now that they are on the record, we must do everything within our power to honour those stories and to act," said Turnbull as he outlined the process for responding to the commission's 409 recommendations.

This included the government's plan to strengthen the working with children checks, and the national redress scheme for survivors. "I am committed and my government is committed to doing everything possible to make sure that this national tragedy is never repeated," he said. Politicians of all sides were united in displaying genuine sadness as they spoke the truth about Michael Gordon, the recently retired Fairfax press gallery veteran who last week died unexpectedly during one of his favourite pastimes, an ocean swim: "He was gentle, he was wise," said the Prime Minister. "He was always calm in a business not known for calm." Said Shorten: "As a journalist, he never chose to put himself in the centre of things or make himself the star. He was an understated, earnest man who, in his understated, earnest way gave the reader the respect of intelligence." And there were moments of cross-partisan warmth in tributes to the fallen Labor politician Barry Cohen. It wasn't only the Labor side of the Parliament that praised the man who, as Bob Hawke's environment minister, had doubled the size of the Kakadu National Park, extended the Great Barrier Reef protected zone, and presided over the return of Uluru to its original owners. Cohen was an indefatigable storyteller and jokester. "Behind the laughter was a man who felt acutely and cared profoundly," said Turnbull. "He once revealed that John Steinbeck's haunting The Grapes of Wrath prompted his political career and his advocacy for others was the perfect illustration of one of the novel's central themes; that we're at our best when we work together, rather than toiling alone to overcome hardship. He abhorred discrimination, something he experienced as a young Jewish man in the 1940s. He possessed a fierce desire to combat it." And yet, the moment the opportunity for partisan conflict opens, the adrenaline surges and these truths and virtues are in danger of disappearing. Problem-solving and compassion, calm and intelligence, co-operation and the defeat of discrimination  what happened to those ideals? When Jim Molan, new Liberal senator and outstanding Australian warrior and patriot, was found to have posted anti-Muslim hate propaganda, he distanced himself from the British bigots who produced the material. But why, under attack from Labor, wouldn't he remove the offending material? And why did the Greens' Adam Bandt abandon his senses and accuse Molan of war crimes?

And then there's the pursuit of dual citizens. Labor's Susan Lamb this week repeated that she'd taken all possible steps to renounce her British citizenship but acknowledged that she'd been unable to produce a vital document, her parents' Queensland certificate of marriage. If either parent is alive, they have to consent to the release of the certificate. Tearfully, she explained why she couldn't get her parents' consent  her father was long dead and "one day when I was six-years-old my mum dropped me off at school and she never came back". She has no contact with her mother, she said, and appealed to the Parliament to stop pressing her. The government has so far refused to relent, even though the government had made a similar appeal to Labor's better angels to relent in the case of Energy and Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg. His family's experience in the Holocaust presented a similarly impossible case of document recovery and a similar basis for special consideration. Labor has dropped the Frydenberg case; the government should do likewise with Lamb. In the Edelman Trust Barometer, low though the repository of trust in Australia's government may be, there is one set of institutions Australians trust even less. The media. The Daily Telegraph provided a case study this week in why this is so. It screamed from its front page that Barnaby Joyce is having a child with his new partner, a former member of his staff, after separating from his wife last year. The story was illustrated by a paparazzi-style snap of the pregnant woman, taken without her consent. In general, the Australian media, unlike its American and British counterparts, chooses not to intrude into the private lives of its public officials unless there is clear evidence that there are serious consequences for the way the official discharges his or her duties. Unlike the big debates under way in the Parliament about tax, welfare, foreign espionage and a dozen other matters, this story has no consequences for anyone outside its immediate impact. The best possible argument for publicising this story is that Joyce supported traditional marriage in parliamentary debate, while his own marriage was failing. He is, therefore, a hypocrite. But you didn't need to embarrass, hurt and humiliate the people caught up in this marital breakdown in order to establish Joyce to be a hypocrite. That's well established already, on a range of issues. To name one, he claims to be passionate about eliminating the government deficit, yet he fights furiously to spend big on every boondoggle he can find  so long as it's spent outside the capital cities.The major losers under the Turnbull government's revamp of childcare payments will be low to middle-income families, departmental figures show.

Figures obtained under Freedom of Information legislation show 161,003 low to middle-income families will be worse off under the new system, and a further 15,692 families will receive no assistance at all.

The government's changes to childcare payments begin on July 1 this year and roll two payments - the Childcare Rebate and the Childcare Benefit - into one payment.

The Turnbull government is introducing a new childcare payments system on July 1 this year. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Of the 1.147 million families currently receiving some form of assistance, 810,944 families across all income groups will see their payments increase, and a further 57,800 families will see no change to their payments.Senior Turnbull government minister Mathias Cormann insists the arrangements in which Barnaby Joyce's new partner was appointed to two well-paid jobs with other Nationals MPs were "absolutely above board".

Labor has vowed to pursue the appointments, in which Vikki Campion - who worked as the Deputy Prime Minister's media adviser before they started having an affair - was given roles with both Matt Canavan and Damian Drum.

Some Nationals MPs have begun questioning whether Barnaby Joyce can survive as leader amid anger among conservative voters over the extramarital affair. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Deputy Labor leader Tanya Plibersek says the opposition will keep asking questions about the moves and any potential misuse of taxpayers' funds, and called on the government to be "fully transparent".

The only interest that we have, and we will keep asking questions about it, is in this area of how taxpayer funds have been expended, she told the ABC's Insiders program.Bill Shorten is promising to set up a compensation fund for survivors of the Indigenous stolen generations - offering payments of $75,000 - in a bid to resolve the "unfinished business" of Kevin Rudd's 10-year-old apology.

The pledge comes as the Turnbull government's latest Closing the Gap report shows a slight improvement in the fight to tackle Indigenous disadvantage - although closing the life expectancy gap remains a stubbornly distant goal.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull will table the 10th annual Closing the Gap report in Federal Parliament on Monday, showing that three of the seven targets are on track to be met - up from just one last year.

PM Malcolm Turnbull will table the report on Monday. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The target to halve child mortality is back on track, as are the goals around early education and year 12 attainment. While this makes it the most promising result since 2011, the other four goals - overall life expectancy, employment, reading and numeracy, and school attendance - remain unlikely to be met.Nationals senator John "Wacka" Williams has backed his scandal-plagued leader, Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, but suggested any revelations about misuse of public money could spell trouble for Mr Joyce.

The Nationals leader has come under pressure over the past week following revelations of an affair with a former staffer, who is now pregnant, and the creation of a series of jobs for her as the relationship caused dysfunction inside the government.

Senator Williams, who is set to retire from politics at the end of this term of Parliament, declined on Monday to guarantee Mr Joyce would lead the Nationals to the next election, telling the ABC: "Well, let's see how all the travel things come out and so on. I just don't know."Treasurer Scott Morrison, a devout Christian, has offered a less-than-enthusiastic defence of his colleague Barnaby Joyce.

"In terms of Barnaby's own private conduct it's not for me to defend him on that," he told the Daily Telegraph.

"People know my views on these things, but I'm also very aware of human frailty."

The Treasurer continued today's government tactic of shifting the responsibility for the appointment of Joyce's partner to two senior positions onto the Nationals.

"It's for the National Party to decide how to they allocate positions."

Morrison also said he was determined to lower both corporate and personal income taxes despite a hostile Parliamentary environment.

"We are reducing the tax burden to make sure the economy grows," he said.

But he would not be drawn on whether personal income tax cuts will be included in the forthcoming May budget, which he would now be in the middle of preparing.Women in violent relationships will find it harder to leave their partners because of changes to the welfare system proposed by the Turnbull government.

Multiple changes to the way welfare payments are administered and calculated are before Parliament which the government says are designed to encourage people to work more.

But welfare groups say one of the measures contained in the legislation will remove existing protections that give people in particularly difficult situations - such as abusive relationships - some leniency in applying for welfare payments.

Welfare groups says the Turnbull government's changes will discourage women from leaving abusive relationships. Credit:Gabriele Charotte

Kate Colvin, policy and communications manager with the Council to Homeless Persons in Victoria, said, "We're talking about people who are already on a financial knife edge. This will push some people over the edge."A P&O cruise ship was forced to return to Sydney on Sunday afternoon so that police could remove seven people who were involved in a fight on board.

The fight took place on board the ship just before 1am, and involved several men arguing about a toilet queue, police said.

During the fight, a 37-year-old woman, who is believed to be the partner of one of the men, allegedly struck a 21-year-old man on the head with an empty wine bottle, causing a laceration.

The woman has been charged with reckless wounding and affray .He employs more than 100 staff and Fairfax estimates the business turns over about $15 million but Delia is not resting on his laurels. Shane Delia grew up in Melbourne's Western suburbs. Credit:Simon Schluter "I am scared of the future," he says. "I'm scared but it drives me to get better." While some restaurateurs are wary of the influence of delivery companies on the restaurant industry, Delia is ramping up his reliance on his partners. A busy night of home deliveries at Biggie Smalls. Credit:Kristoffer Paulsen

He operates two brick and mortar Biggie Small stores and two dark stores, known as "Uber exclusive stores", which are online only, and this is where Delia wants to build his business. "By the end of the year there will be another seven of those," he says. "By the end of 2018 there will be nowhere in the Melbourne Uber reach that you can't order Biggie Smalls." Watermelon and rosewater ice. Credit:Suppied. I have never considered myself one of the country's best cooks, I consider myself a good business man who tries to do things right. Shane Delia Delia is contemplating focusing solely on Uber Eats and abandoning the other food delivery companies.

"Currently we are using everyone but I think moving froward you can't play the field forever, eventually you have to choose one and marry it," he says. "We have had a great relationship with Uber Eats and moving forward I think they are the winning horse and I want to be in the jockey seat." Shane Delia plating the poached mussels with saffron and moghrabieh couscous served at his restaurant Maha. Credit:Pat Scala 'I learnt a hell of a lot' It's been a hard graft for Delia to get to where he is today but he gives a lot of credit to his wife Maha, who he met while heading up the kitchen at Chateau Yering in the Yarra Valley.  "I realised I was not happy anymore," Delia says. "Mentally I was not in a great space, I've always had a bit of attention deficit disorder and I did go through a stage where it was pretty bad. After proposing to [Maha] I decided I had to make a change, either leave the career or do something to be the husband that was expected of me and to be around more."

Shane Delia at his Collingwood kebab diner Biggie Smalls. After leaving Chateau Yering, Delia caught up with his old friend George Calombaris, who he had completed an apprenticeship with. Delia agreed to open a restaurant with Calombaris and his partners Made Establishment and that restaurant was Maha. "To be honest I didn't know his partners, I knew him," says Delia. "I don't just trust everyone I meet with my life savings. If someone is my friend and I trust them I assume they have my best interests at heart. We went into the business and I learnt a hell of a lot it turned me from a chef to a prospectful restaurateur. I learnt a lot about restaurants, friends, and pressures and how to deal with it and not deal with it." Going it alone

After five years in business together with Maha, Delia bought out Made Establishment in 2013. When asked if this caused a rift with Calombaris, Delia is sanguine. "There was never any argument and there was never any bad blood," he says. "We were the best of friends and when you are in business together, that's a hard space. It was the same fuel and drive that we built on in the past but this time it caused a little fracture. It wasn't a falling out, we decided it was time to go our separate ways." Calombaris declined to comment for this article. For the first time, Delia truly had ownership and control of his own restaurant.

"It was scary but it was liberating too," he says. "I felt like I should be ready to take on the next step and I had something to prove to myself that I had created it and I wasn't just riding on the coat tails of others, but at the same time you do doubt yourself. I think anyone high achieving always doubts themselves." Delia says going it alone was tough. "When I came out of that partnership I was in a really bad position mentally and emotionally," he says. "Our business has been consistent and stable for a great number of years so the financial pressure of not paying bills has not really been an issue. But when you are the primary investor and it is all on you and you go to bed at night with millions of dollars at risk it is stressful. I have two young kids and a wife. That pressure also fuels me, that combined with untreated mental illnesses is a cocktail for disaster and it almost broke me and I'm lucky I have a wife who stuck by me through that process." Delia says since then he has gone through a "total transformation" mentally and emotionally. "The lows ground you and form who you are, and how you recover from that is a true test," he says. "I have never considered myself one of the country's best cooks, I consider myself a good business man who tries to do things right."WA's longest running coal dispute has ended after nearly 180 days of protected industrial action.

The Fair Work Commission ruled Griffin Coal maintenance workers could return to work on Wednesday - nearly six months after workers first commenced action against management.

Following the decision, Australian Manufacturing Worker's Union state secretary Steve McCartney said the union's members were happy to see the end of the dispute.

"We're very pleased that our members at Griffin Coal will be returning to work on Wednesday," he said.Denver. Joseph Lopez had a chilling answer when investigators asked why he had shot a 19-year-old woman in the head around Christmas and then left her body in a rural area near Denver: she asked him to.

Lopez said that Natalie Bollinger had put an ad on Craigslist that said "I want to put a hit on myself," according to an affidavit obtained by Denver ABC-affiliate KMGH. Lopez responded.

Lopez, 22, was charged on Thursday with first-degree murder in the December 28 killing of Bollinger. He is in jail with no bond, scheduled to appear in court again on Wednesday in a case that has shaken this part of Colorado since late last year.

Investigators in Adams County, Colorado, have been poring over Bollinger's social media accounts - and putting pressure on her friends and anyone else who may have known what happened - since her body was discovered a day after she was reported missing, Adams County Sheriff Mike McIntosh said in a news conference.Death and taxes might be two great certainties in life, but I reckon we could safely add another one: the motherhood penalty.

We all know the reason for this: women the world over tend to spend much more time caring for children than men do and that, in turn, means women can't work as much as men.

The financial and career costs of motherhood, especially over a lifetime, are typically huge despite decades of sweeping social change.

Now there's striking new evidence underscoring how deeply entrenched and pervasive the motherhood penalty is. Even in Denmark, one of the world's most progressive societies, that penalty is increasing.Bulgarian President Rumen Radav and his wife Desislava Radeva arrived in Armenia today, and were greeted by Armenian President Serzg Sargsyan and First Lady Rita Sargsyan.

Radav is paying an official visit to Armenia at the invitation of President Sargsyan.

While ten years have passed since my state visit to Bulgaria, I remember it fondly since it was full of warmth and manifestations of friendship. I want to note with satisfaction, Mr. President, that we have realized serious achievements in these past 25 years. And while we are not fully using the potential that exists between our two countries, those achievements are genuine. They are genuine because our relations are founded on good historic friendship, Sargsyan stated, according to his press office.

Radav said that he was looking forward to signing four important cooperation documents.By Feb. 11, 2018



Led by Jacqueline Kohl-Hamilton, Professor of English, Eastern Kentucky University & member of the National Holocaust Educators Network.



With special guest, Holocaust survivor John Rosenberg



Rosenberg is emeritus director of the Appalachian Research and Defense Fund of Kentucky Inc. (AppalReD), a legal services program serving low-income people throughout the state.

Prior to his work at AppalReD, Rosenberg served for eight years as a trial attorney and section chief in the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, litigating discrimination cases in the deep south. He was part of the team that prosecuted the murderers of the three civil rights workers who were killed in Philadelphia, Miss., in 1964.



Rosenberg has a B.A. from Duke University and a J.D. from the University of North Carolina Law School, and served four year in the U.S. Air Force. Previously recognized by the ABA with a 2013 Difference Makers Award, Rosenberg was awarded honorary degrees from Morehead State University in 1999 and from William Mitchell College of Law in 2000. In addition, in 2004 he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Lawyer magazine and in 2013 received the Kentucky Bar Association Distinguished Lawyer Award.





Along with his brother and parents, Rosenberg is a Holocaust survivor who was featured in Arwen Donahue's book This Is Home Now.

Rosenberg has received a number of awards for his public service work, including the distinguished Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award, in 2016.



This program is co-sponsored by the Kentucky Humanities. Kentucky Humanities is an independent, nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities in Washington, D.C.



All programs are free & open to the public.



For more information, contact Bobbie Wrinkle 270-442-2510 ext. 119 or Email: bwrinkle@mclib.net



PADUCAH, KY - From Barbed Wire to Bluegrass: Holocaust Survivors in Kentucky (part 2) will be presented at the McCracken County Public Library on Thursday, April 12, 7-8 pm.Calloway County Sheriff's Office Arrests Five People Over the Weekend Through Various InvestigationsLoading...

Despite claiming in a programme note that this play "was never a passion project", author, director and leading actor Tom Stuchfield's ongoing commitment to it  nearly a decade in the making  suggests otherwise. Ultimately his tenacity proves understandable, even if it takes rather too long to get to that place.

Somewhere A Gunner Fires is a World War One drama inspired by a visit to the Belgian battlefields and Stuchfield's own family history. It takes an admirably broad, multiple perspective view of the horrors of the conflict, centring on a young British soldier (Stuchfield himself, credibly channelling his great-grandfather) and his Austrian counterpart (touchingly bluff and brooding Chris Born) missing their sweethearts back home and driven to the ends of their wits by what war forces them to do.

So far, so dramatic, but Stuchfield then paints himself and his cast into a theatrical corner by having the entire company of six standing facing the audience at all times and speaking the  admittedly compelling  text at us, including large chunks of narrative. The cumulative effect of this feels more like a radio play, or the reciting of a novel than a genuine stage piece, and means that the production as a whole fails to catch dramatic fire until late in the second half, despite the authentically grim ordeals the central characters go through.

When that engagement does come though, it is worth the wait, as the two irreparably damaged couples meet unexpectedly after the war and collectively experience the healing balm afforded by beautiful live music. The final image of this quartet of broken figures tearfully communing with the each other, art, acceptance, and indeed hope itself, speaks volumes about the devastating, far-reaching personal and spiritual cost of war. It's a powerful final image to conclude a production that elsewhere is pretty short on visual interest.

Within the limitations imposed on them by the static staging, some of the actors acquit themselves impressively: Guy Clark is haunting and heartbreaking as a young British soldier whose affinity with nature is starkly at odds with his terrifying surroundings, while Olivia Hanrahan-Barnes and Julia Kass touchingly sketch a spiky burgeoning friendship between two contrasting women whose lives are blighted by the conflict. Stuchfield himself has a likeable, relatable everyman quality as Spencer, the character inspired by his own grandfather.

One wonders if there's an interval solely to give the actors' legs a break, as it unquestionably tampers with the flow of the piece. Also, the strand of the story featuring a drunk American conscript fled to Europe from a combative domestic life with his father back home, feels like a dramatic non-sequitur, in a play that could safely lose approximately 20 minutes of playing time without detriment.

Despite my reservations, this intense production ultimately proves a worthy centenary commemoration of the final British cavalry charge on the Western Front. Most importantly, it unapologetically puts the humanity front and centre in this tragic tale.

Somewhere A Gunner Fires runs at the King's Head Theatre until 24 February.Close Get email notifications on Lisa Neff daily!

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Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.As protests continue to erupt in the streets of Kenosha, Wisconsin, and across the world in outrage against the horrific shooting of Jacob Bla Read morePost Zexit: Lessons for Ramaphosa on building an inclusive state

Cyril Ramaphosa has unfairly been criticised by political commentators for his attempt to negotiate Jacob Zuma's resignation.

But it is a perfectly sensible strategy. Ramaphosa is facing an arduous task and is correctly concerned with having to economically and politically rejuvenate South Africa after the disastrous rule of Jacob Zuma. This would be greatly assisted if he had a coherent and cohesive organisation with which to effect this agenda. A messy exit for Zuma undermines this approach as it would fracture the ANC in important ways. A voluntary resignation by Zuma, by contrast, would keep the ruling political party relatively more cohesive, thereby enabling Ramaphosa to refashion it in ways that can be used to rebuild South Africa's economic, political and even institutional foundations.

Of course, opposition politicians and commentators do not have to worry about these issues. This allows them to make easy and glib statements about how the matter should be handled. To be fair, if opposition parties and civil society had not mobilised society against the corrupt practices of the Zuma administration, there would never have been the incentive within the ANC to act against Zuma. It is only the prospect of electoral loss and eroding political legitimacy that has galvanised forces within the ANC to rid itself of Zuma and some of the obnoxious individuals who support him. But now that the political will has emerged within the ANC, it is important that the transition be undertaken in a manner that enables the building of bridges through which our economic and political future can be recalibrated.

This does not mean that reflection is not required on the current Ramaphosa talks. It is necessary, but the emphasis should be far less on the strategy and more on the terms of the settlement. There is now some discussion with many opposition leaders and commentators critical of a prospective agreement that allows Zuma's legal costs to be paid for by the state, and his family to have an ongoing security detail. I am more pragmatic on these issues than some of the critics. I recognise that these matters are in part related to actions undertaken during his tenure as President and therefore there may be some legitimacy to his demand for legal costs being paid by the state. I also think that his family could be under threat and security may indeed be warranted, although I am of the view that this has to be time bound, and reassessed after a year.

To be honest, this is not where the real substance of the matter lies. The serious deliberation needs to focus on whether Zuma should be pardoned if he is found guilty. This cannot be decided now because he has not yet been found guilty of anything. But if he were to be, should Zuma be pardoned? I know of many who would be opposed to this because he should not be treated differently to any other citizen. But what if there is a real prospect of violence in KwaZulu-Natal if Zuma is jailed? Is peace not a sufficient outcome for Zuma's pardon?

There is of course a danger in making this trade off. It could enshrine a practice where 'strong men' are not held accountable for their crimes because of their capacity to create mayhem. Can we continue to allow ourselves to be held hostage to such violence? It is after all important for there to be consequences for illegal actions, otherwise there is no incentive for economic and political elites to be accountable. But the converse is also true. Some political leaders, mainly of a populist orientation, are capable of either violence or stoking the fires of division that can undermine an economic and political revitalisation. This is not only true of Zuma, but also of other opposition politicians who too were implicated in corruption, tax evasion and the like, and used radical rhetoric and populist demagoguery to mask their misdeeds. Are we as a collective society willing to stay the course in all of these cases or are we pragmatic enough to temper justice if peace and inclusive prosperity is to be the outcome?

Obviously, these options need not be as irreconcilable as they are presented here. Justice could be tempered but not deferred. A corrupt politician found guilty of tax evasion could have assets confiscated but not be imprisoned. Politicians, as in apartheid, were not held accountable for their many crimes, but were forever politically isolated. In Zuma's case, if he were to be found guilty, he could be pardoned, but penalised with the loss of some assets and barred from holding public office. More importantly, those around him who corruptly enriched themselves, like the Guptas, could be held accountable. Monies swindled into foreign jurisdictions could be tracked and repatriated with the help of foreign governments and international security services. They could be imprisoned, or at least, permanently barred from South Africa with all of their domestic assets confiscated. Serious consequences can flow even if justice is pragmatically applied in this case.

I argue for neither of these options for now. A decision need not be made immediately. After all, Zuma is presumed innocent until found guilty by a court of law. But it is important that there is substantive deliberation in society about the substance of this issue so that at least first principles and parameters can be established. It is these first principles and parameters that should be collectively deliberated and that Ramaphosa would have to consider and apply if a decision is to be made in this regard.

What are the lessons to be learnt from Zuma's tenure in office and his travails? There are many for multiple stakeholders. For potential autocrats, populist demagogues and their supporters, it would be wise to note that however powerful one may seem at first, sooner or later in a democracy, political power reorganises itself and circumstances emerge to hold them accountable.

To the sycophants and supporters of Zuma in 2008, who now have him as their political nemesis, remember that spectacle without thought got us to where we are today. Sensible deliberative conversation cannot be substituted by political spectacle if we want productive outcomes that are in line with our social justice obligations. There were many innocent individuals, Kwezi perhaps being the most tragic, that were hurt by political spectacle and thoughtless activism. If they are truly repentant in this regard, then this cannot involve simply an apology, but more importantly, a change in political practice. The substance of this must be the enablement of thoughtful deliberation in which we think through how to advance social justice in a programmatic way and implement it in a manner that builds social coalitions and mobilises society across divides, rather than fracturing it even further in the pursuit of short term political ends.

There is a place for mass action and societal mobilisation in this regard. After all, there would never have been the incentive for the ANC to act against Zuma had this not happened. But mass action has to be complemented with progressive intra-institutional action if progressive public policy is to be implemented and consolidated. And this cannot be done in one grand act. Rather, it has to be progressively built in a series of small actions, each of which has a snowballing logic that ultimately cascades into an overall transformation of the political and socioeconomic system that enables the establishment of an inclusive democracy.

To the journalistic cohort and the commentariat, there is the lesson of speaking truth to power. Almost all journalists and political commentators would rhetorically subscribe to this statement. But have they truly internalised what this means, for it does not simply require speaking truth to state power, but also to societal power; to the leadership of social movements, to the general secretary of the trade unions and their federations, and to the leaders of opposition parties. It requires them to critically analyse the strategies deployed by the opposition and to call them out when this is necessary. It requires journalists not to romanticise the opposition, or to become uncritical supporters of a coalition of the wounded where the lowest common denominator is the basis for political action. It requires that we do not repeat the mistake of 2008 where, in the dislike for Mbeki, we embraced all those who stood against him. But is this not what is happening when journalists thank opposition politicians for not engaging in violent social action, or when they remain silent when public property is destroyed in the ostensible pursuit of social justice, or when school children are terrified by social activists because of the bigotry of their school principal or governing board. Speaking truth to power requires more than challenging the state. It requires the emotional and political courage to speak to those within our midst and to hold them accountable when their behaviour violates the founding principles of the inclusive democracy that we hope to build.

Perhaps most importantly, there is a lesson for the economic elite and corporate South Africa. We are today in this politically and socially polarised moment because of the structural inequality which we collectively refused to address. We have another opportunity to correct for this deficit, for without it, the long term sustainability of the corporate sector is itself imperilled. This requires a willingness to give up some economic benefits in the interests of broader social development. It requires a more appropriate balance to be struck between short-term profitably and long term sustainability. It requires a willingness to consider tax increases, or social investment obligations, or curbs on executive remuneration or dividend payments, in order to address the greater inequality within our society. Ultimately, it requires a willingness to partner the state, and not co-opt it, in a project of inclusive economic development where inequality, as much as poverty, is addressed. Only then will the long term viability of corporate South Africa itself be assured.

Finally, there is of course the lesson for Cyril Ramaphosa. In late 2007, just after the ANC's Polokwane conference, I authored two short essays, the first on the fall of Mbeki and the other on the lessons for Zuma. In the latter, I reflected on the challenge of inequality and the political aloofness that it engenders, and why it was so necessary to address these as part of a greater project of political and socioeconomic emancipation. I was of course not the only one advocating this. There were many other voices suggesting the same agenda. But Zuma did not heed these messages and he paid the ultimate political price. This same lesson needs to now be heard by Ramaphosa. Ultimately one's presidential tenure in South Africa, and one's political legacy, will truly be determined by one's success in developing an inclusive economic agenda.

This will not happen through some grand overthrow of the political and economic status quo, or through the delinking from the world economy as is so often suggested by some on the far left. Rather it will happen in the messy politics of mobilising societal coalitions - business, labour and civil society - in an inclusive economic agenda. It will require all social partners to sacrifice their immediate short-term goals for a more equitable medium-term sharing of the spoils. It will require Ramaphosa's administration to think through the kind of economic reforms that are feasible in the contemporary moment, yet sufficiently transformative that they have a cumulative effect, which creates a conducive environment for greater emancipation. Most importantly it will require political leadership where the President is capable of persuading and even corralling social partners, into a shared economic and social agenda, even if it requires some short-term economic, political and social compromises.

These are the considerations, and their practical policy and strategic implications, which we should be deliberating. But this is not the case. Even those surrounding Ramaphosa are not sufficiently reflecting on these matters for they are caught up in the immediate political machinations of intra-party squabbles and keeping the political opposition at bay. But our long-term collective future is ultimately going to be determined by these discussions, not by the short term political machinations. Is there not an urgency then, for all of us to collectively participate and engage on these weighty matters rather than being entranced by the political spectacle of 'great men politics?

Professor Adam Habib is the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the WitwatersrandAn immigration debate has been brewing for months in Washington D.C. and will take center stage on Monday, with one metro family paying close attention.

Syed Jamal, a metro educator, teacher, and father who spent 30 years in the U.S., was taken into custody by immigration officials on Jan. 24.

ICE took Jamal into custody in his yard in Lawrence, KS, as he was getting ready to take his children to school.

Jamal's family has been fighting to keep the chemistry professor from being deported. But, it's United State Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver, of Missouri, who plans to introduce a private bill that can help him.

The Democrat representative flew to Texas Saturday with Jamal's attorney to check on his well-being. He brought with him a picture, drawn by Jamal's youngest son. It said: "I miss my dad."

Cleaver says he is proposing a private bill that would essentially extend Jamal's stay until his status is sorted out in the courts. He hopes the bill will issue a stay in Jamal's trial to allow courts to sort out his case.

In Washington, A GOP proposal will offer a number of changes to laws that would make it easier to deport and detain immigrants.

On Monday, the Senate will begin a rare, open-ended debate on immigration and the fate of the "Dreamer" immigrants, and Republican senators say they'll introduce President Donald Trump's plan.

The president says he would like to scale back family-based immigration, end the diversity lottery and give federal authorities for deportation and detention powers.

Jamal's brother says Syed was being allowed to work when he was arrested.

"A lot of people think he's illegal, which is untrue," Syed Hussein Jamal said. "He was working here legally, held a work permit that was still valid."

Cleaver says supporting this family is the right thing to do.

"He is doing what we want every citizen to do. His family loves him, his neighbors love him. We ought to want him to be here in the United States of America," Cleaver said. "I think this is the right thing to do and the people supporting this family are doing the right thing."

Jamal is originally from Bangladesh and his attorney said he overstayed a voluntary departure notice in 2011, but that the government allowed him to stay in the U.S. under supervision.

He is currently being detained in the El Paso Detention Facility, where he will remain until a decision on his motion is made.UTICA - The search continues for a family of three from North Carolina. On Sunday, WKTV spoke with the father of the woman who is missing. His name is Scott Franz from Alabama. Franz told WKTV at this point the family is still missing and needs the public's help.

The family of three was last seen in South Utica on Monday, February 5th. The family was visiting other family who lives in the area.

WKTV learned new information on Sunday which includes the names of the missing people. Daughter of Scott Franz, Deanna Reynolds, 24, is missing along with her husband Travis Reynolds, 25, who both reside in North Carolina. They have a son by the name of Cooper Reynolds who is also missing.

We are extremely concerned and devastated, said Franz. We have a daughter named Deanna who is our only daughter and Cooper who is our only grandson.

Franz also told WKTV that the family was staying in a cabin north of Utica. He also mentioned that the last time he spoke with his daughter was almost a week ago.

Last word was that they were going to go back to the cabin and be in the area for a few days, said Franz. Then they kind of just disappeared.

Franz said the next day he had some short texts with his daughter and then they went silent.

The family of three was last seen driving a silver Honda Fit with a North Carolina plate EHJ 6976 in Utica.

WKTV spoke with the Utica Police Department and they believe the family is no longer in the area.

The police department and family members are asking for your help. If you have any knowledge of where this family could be please contact the Utica Police Department at (315)-735-3301.NEW YORK (AP) - Police say Donald Trump Jr.'s wife opened an envelope that contained white powder, felt ill and has been taken to New York City hospital.

They say Vanessa Trump called 911 Monday morning after opening a letter addressed to Donald Trump Jr. at their midtown Manhattan apartment. Police say she said she was coughing and felt nauseous.

The Trump Organization didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. It's unclear what the powder was.

Detectives from the New York Police Department's intelligence division and Secret Service agents are investigating. A spokeswoman for the Secret Service hasn't responded to a request for comment.

Police say a hazmat unit is also at the scene.

(Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)ROME  The Rome Police Department is asking for the publics help locating a suspect wanted on several arrest warrants.

Twenty-year-old Christopher Quiles is the Rome Police Departments Wanted Person of the Week. Police say hes wanted on four warrants out of the city of Rome for assault, resisting arrest, failure to comply with a court order, and vehicle and traffic laws.

Police say Quiles is believed to live in the city of Rome, but he frequents areas outside of the city. Hes described as being 5 feet 8 inches all, and he weighs about 175 lbs.

Police are asking for any information that may lead to his arrest. If you have information about Quiles whereabouts, you can send an anonymous tip here, or through the Mohawk Valley Crime Stoppers. You can also call Rome police at 315-339-7780, or call 911.CARROLL COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - The Monon High Bridge in Delphi has been a local hiking attraction for decades. But now, many know it as the place where the last pictures of homicide victims Liberty German and Abigail Williams were taken. Tuesday marks the one year anniversary of when the girls went missing.

News 18 uncovers what safety improvements are being made to the bridge and trails a year later.

"We all feel a bit responsible for what happened to the girls," said Delphi Mayor Shane Evans. "We ask ourselves if there's more that we could do to keep them safe."

But how was the community to know that the beautiful Delphi trails and the Historic Monon High Bridge would one day lead to such a heinous crime?

"Like everything else, you never know where it's going to happen next," said Shannon Toole, a Delphi resident.

Last year on Feb. 13, Abby Williams and Libby German were last seen on the Monon High Bridge in Delphi. The girls spent a few hours taking pictures on the bridge. But no one could have predicted it would be the last time the two would be seen alive.

News 18 took a walk with one of Libby's childhood friends, Keri Toole. It was the first time she's been on the trails since the tragedy.

"It was hard on everybody," said Keri. "I still have so many questions, circling through my mind."

Keri's father, Shannon Toole, said because of what happened he wouldn't let his daughter walk the trails alone.

"I think I'm like everybody, scared and leary," said Toole.

Abby and Libby's bodies were found less than a mile from the bridge. In light of the tragedy, the city put together a Trail Safety Task Force to make safety improvements.

"It was really a shocker to all of our community because we've more or less felt like we're a rural area and these places we love are all free for us to use anytime and didn't really have a reality check until last February," said Wabash and Erie Canal Association President Dan McCain.

The task force is now in the middle of adding lighting, cameras, informational kiosks, and Wi-Fi. Mayor Evans said there will be cameras at each entry point. But, there won't be any along the trails.

"We can't put a security camera at every hundred feet," said Evans. "So what we have tried to do and the recommendation from the trail task force was, to put those security cameras at the entrance to the trails. So that we know who is coming in and going out."

"To set up a system that would retrieve and record information from the cameras requires a much different array of technology, much more cost," said McCain. "And it isn't something that we felt like even for trail walkers to think that they're being spied on all of the time."

The task force will also be adding trail markers at every tenth mile. That way if someone has to call 911 for help they can tell police exactly where they are."

"I think the added security measures will help people feel safer," said Evans. "And it will help give us further comfort and that we're trying to do everything we can to help keep these trails safe."

Many hope one day more than just the bridge can be restored. They hope this place can eventually go back to being a safe and peaceful spot.

"I think this will be a place for reflection. A place where you can think about the girls and not associate them with the crime that occurred" said Evans.

McCain said most of the cameras will be installed by spring.China plans demonstration nuclear heating project

12 February 2018

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A feasibility study on constructing China's first nuclear plant for district heating is being carried out by China General Nuclear (CGN) and Tsinghua University. The plant would use the domestically-developed NHR200-II low-temperature heating reactor technology.

An artist's impression of a plant based on the NHR200-II reactor (Image: CGN)

China's National Energy Administration (NEA) recently organised a meeting to discuss nuclear energy heating in northern China. The meeting agreed that CGN and Tsinghua University should conduct preliminary work on the construction of a demonstration project in China. The work is to include planning and site selection, land and water use, emergency plans, communication with the public and actively promoting the project.

CGN said there is a great deal of experience in using nuclear energy for district heating abroad, and a large amount of research and development work on nuclear heating has already been carried out in China.

Research work in China on the possible application of nuclear heat began in the early 1980s. During 1983-1984, the Institute of Nuclear Energy and Technology (INET) at Tsinghua University used its existing pool-type test reactor to provide space heat for nearby buildings. Meanwhile two types of nuclear heating reactors - one a deep pool type, the other a vessel type - were developed by INET. The vessel type reactor was selected as the main development direction. Construction of a 5 MWt experimental nuclear heating reactor (NHR5) at INET began in 1986 and was completed in 1989. The larger, demonstration-scale NHR200-II was developed from this.

CGN senior vice president Shu Guogang said the NHR200-II low-temperature heating reactor technology is a mature design and passed a safety review by the National Nuclear Safety Administration in the 1990s. He noted the design was ranked first in NEA's review of small-scale nuclear reactor technology in 2016.

The NHR200-II design concept offer high safety and can be used for a wide range of applications, CGN said. In addition to electricity generation, it can also be used to provide heat, water and steam for applications including residential heating, industrial process heat and supplying remote areas with energy. It also features flexibility in location, so it can be built near to the end-users. Moreover, its construction requires only two to three years, if done on a mass production basis, according to CGN.

The Chinese government has made clean-energy heating a priority, CGN noted. Last year, the authorities issued guidance on clean heating in winter in northern China. The NEA released a five-year plan - covering 2017-2021 - highlighting the innovation of clean heating technology and consideration of nuclear heating.

CGN Chairman He Yu said: "As China's first trial use of nuclear power to generate over 100 MW of heating energy, the project will serve as a model for clean-energy heating and is considered an ideal replacement for coal-burning. It will help reduce coal consumption, curbing pollution and promoting cleaner heating in North China."

CGN said it will "earnestly carry out the preliminary work for the project, push the project to obtain state approval and start construction as soon as possible, and promote clean heating in the northern region".

Researched and written

by World Nuclear News

Related topicsUSA extends nuclear tax credit deadline

12 February 2018

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CORRECTED: The original version of this story gave an incorrect figure for the value of nuclear tax credits under the 2005 Energy Policy Act.

The USA has extended production tax credits for advanced nuclear power plants under a budget bill signed into law by President Donald Trump. The nuclear production tax credit is seen as an essential component for the completion of US plants already under construction and for first-of-a-kind small modular reactor (SMR) construction.

Workers at Vogtle are briefed before the installation of unit 3's pressuriser in January - a key milestone for the project (Image: Georgia Power)



HR 1892 - the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 - was passed by the US Senate and Congress in the early hours of 9 February and signed into law by the President later the same day, ending a brief government shutdown. The act, which includes defence and domestic spending with funding for healthcare and infrastructure, gained bipartisan support in both houses.

Nuclear production tax credits were created under the 2005 Energy Policy Act to provide federal support for projects such as Georgia Power's Vogtle units 3 and 4. The credit was set at 1.8 cents per kilowatt-hour of electricity over eight years, subject to limitations. To be eligible for the credit, plants were required to enter commercial operation by the end of 2020; however the Vogtle plants are not expected to enter service until November 2021 (unit 3) and November 2022 (unit 4).

Section 40501 of the new law allows reactors entering service after 31 December 2020 to qualify for the tax credits, and enables the US Energy Secretary to allocate credits for up to 6000 MWe of new nuclear capacity which enters service after 1 January 2021. It also allows public entity partners in the projects - such as Vogtle's minority owners Oglethorpe Power, MEAG Power and the city of Dalton - to transfer their credits to other credit partners.

The 2021 deadline means that the two Vogtle units will be eligible for the tax credits. Other projects, such as NuScale Power's plans to build its first commercial SMR plant at the Idaho National Laboratory by 2026, will also now be able to benefit.

Georgia Power's recommendation to continue with the construction of the two AP1000 reactors at Vogtle, following contractor Westinghouse's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in March last year, received approval from the state's public service commission in December.

Federal support and "constructive legislation" continue to be an important key to the project's success, the company said. The new law further reduces the risk for the continuing construction of the units, for which the company also holds more than $5 billion in anticipated loan guarantees from the Department of Energy.

The company praised members of Congress for voting to approve the legislation to extend the tax credits deadline, led by Senator Johnny Isakson.

"We are grateful to Senator Isakson for his leadership on this issue, and to the entire Georgia delegation for recognising the importance of new nuclear generation and demonstrating renewed federal support for the Vogtle project," he said. "At Georgia Power, we are focused on delivering value to our customers every day and we're committed to completing these new units."

Maria Korsnick, president and CEO of the US Nuclear Energy Institute, said the vote was "a vote for continued American leadership in nuclear energy, environmental stewardship and thousands of jobs", with tax credits supplying an essential component to complete construction of the Vogtle plant and also paving the way to build NuScale's Idaho SMR.

"Both projects will serve as anchors for energy infrastructure  as they generate carbon-free electricity, spur economic growth and support a diverse and reliable electric grid for decades to come," she said.

Researched and written

by World Nuclear News

Related topicsA Florida judge resisted police officers who attempted to take him into custody after being caught soliciting a prostitute, according to police in Florida.

On Friday, Naples police detectives conducted an undercover operation, which resulted in six individuals arrested for solicitation of prostitution.

One of the suspects, Lee Circuit Judge Jay Barry Rosman, 64, was additionally charged with resisting arrest without violence.

In each case, the suspect solicited an undercover police officer to perform a sexual act in exchange for a monetary payment of between $150 and $300.

In addition to Judge Rosman, the following suspects were arrested: Howard Cornibe, 60, of Fort Myers, Peter W. Bradshaw, 70, of Canada, Patrick J. Boll, 53, of New Jersey, William B. Darmoh III, 29, of Naples, and Richard A. Cecil, 47, of Fort Myers.

Roseman called an undercover police officer, believing that she was a prostitute.

He arranged to meet at a hotel and pay her $300 for sex.

The judge was arrested when he arrived at the hotel.

Since Rosman resisted arrest, he was booked into the Collier County jail.

His bail has been set at $4,000.

Rosman is a married man and has three children.

He has been a judge for the past 32 years and taught business and criminal law courses at the University of South Florida.It is nearly four months since the tragic death of Jacoby Marquis Hennings, a 21-year-old part-time temporary worker at Fords Woodhaven Stamping plant, just south of Detroit, on October 20, 2017.

The police and United Auto Workers officials claim the young man pulled a gun on UAW officials during an unexplained dispute in their office, and then took his own life as police charged up the stairs and confronted him. The official story is laced with contradictions and unanswered questions.

The claims by UAW Local 387 officialsArnold Miller and Christopher Pfaffand a Ford Human Resource Manager Martin Hernandez that Jacoby Hennings, appeared under the influence of alcohol or drugs, have been refuted by the Wayne County Medical Examiners autopsy report, which found nothing in the young mans system but caffeine.

The police have dropped the case, ruling it a suicide, while the corporate media presented the incident as just another workplace shooting by a disgruntled employee. But Jacoby was a well-loved and popular young man, with nearly 2,000 friends on his Facebook page, who had, as his parents and friends described, an almost infectious optimism. Why would such a young worker kill himself?

My son loved life, Jacobys mother, Shemeeka, a 42-year-old Chrysler worker, told the World Socialist Web Site last week during an interview at the familys Harper Woods home. He was a beautiful person. I never thought in a million years I would be sitting here talking about losing my son. He did not go into that plant intending to hurt anyone. Something went terribly wrong. I want to know what.

Autoworkers are well aware of the oppressive conditions in the factories, particularly for low-paid temporary part-time workers or TPTs, who pay dues to the UAW but have few if any rights. This tragedy evoked strong feelings among factory workers with hundreds of autoworkers attending the young mans funeral on Detroits eastside on October 28. Since then workers have repeatedly expressed their sympathy and solidarity with Shemeeka and her husband, Bernard Jr, who is 43 and is also a long-time Chrysler worker.

Workers at Shemeekas factory, Fiat Chryslers Warren Stamping plant, raised over $5,000 in plant gate collections and other donations and bought a Christmas gift for Jacobys younger brother, 16-year-old Jarrod. Workers at Bernards Mopar parts plant have also expressed their solidarity.

The family has received more than 4,000 cards, expressing sympathy and support, and not a day has gone by without people delivering groceries, prepared food or edible arrangements to the family, Winter, a family friend and Warren Truck worker, told the WSWS. People were here every day for months after the funeral, she said.

On December 27, hundreds of family members, friends and workers, the majority autoworkers, marked what would have been Jacobys 22nd birthday with a memorial and celebration of his life at the family home, just east of Detroit.

The main floor and basement of the home were overflowing with workers and young people making bracelets with letters spelling out Long Live Coby and similar messages, as well as painting pictures to honor the young worker. A DJ played relaxing music, there was singing, and participants released 22 balloons into the air. Seven-day candles were lit to last into the New Year, friends said, so Jacobys spirit would go into 2018. A committee was set up to plan for a birthday celebration for next year and future Coby Days, including barbeques and other celebrations.

After months of inconsolable sadness, Jacobys mother spoke at the gathering about the unbreakable bond she had with her son. A treasure is something really special, something irreplaceable, something you wouldnt want to lose for anything. It is something I value highly, hold close to my broken heart, protect and appreciate so much. Since its your birthday, I send this message with lots of love because you were a treasure to me. Jacoby, I was blessed to see you become a grown man and I will always be your number one fan.

You have touched so many hearts and you are so loved, a card, signed by family and friends, read. We miss you every second of everyday. We got you forever and thats our word. Your name and most importantly your legacy is here forever. Although we may not be able to see you, we know you are right here every step of the way. Every day is Coby Day! We love you tremendously and that is never going to change. Thinking of your voice helps ease the pain. Happy 22nd birthday Coby baby! Long Live Coby.

It was an amazing outpouring of support, said Sheemekas sister, Lucretia, who is also a Fiat Chrysler worker. Workers know Coby had a good mother and good father and they really felt their pain. By supporting Shemeeka and Bernard, they were taking a step forward to do the right thing for all workers. If youre an autoworker you know the conditions in the plants, especially the way TPTs are mistreated. Workers knew this could be their son or daughter.

Its amazing how much Coby was loved, Shemeeka told the WSWS as she gave reporters a tour of the family home. She stopped at Jacobys bedroom and showed them his framed sign on the wall, reading, Stay Humble. Be Kind. Work Hard. On his mantel was a small sculpture of Sisyphus, who according to Greek Mythology had been eternally condemned to roll a boulder up a hill. Coby saw himself as a man taking on the world.

I lost an absolutely unique, beautiful young man, Shemeeka continued. My son loved life, he loved his parents and his little brother, Jarrod, who looked up to Coby as his idol. He loved to shop and dress well. This just doesnt happen to a kid like that.

Do I believe the way they say things happened? I dont. The police report says he asked for a black union steward. What made him feel that way? That was a sign that he felt scared, he felt like he was alone, and he called out for anybody that looked like him. He thought because the steward was black he would be protected. My son was only 21. He didnt know everyone in the union is in cahoots. He was scared and didnt understand it is not about black and white. If theyre in, theyre in, it doesnt matter what color they are.

Shemeeka was livid over the slanders by UAW officials who said Jacoby was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. I dont like the way they made things up to ruin my sons name by saying he was drunk or on pills that day. I know he didnt drink or smoke and I knew the autopsy would show that. My son was respectful.

Sheemeka said Jacoby was raised around autoworkers and heard stories his whole life about the struggles autoworkers had gone through, particularly from her grandfather, Johnny Maye Sr., who had been a Ford worker during the battles to organize. Maye, who recently died at the age of 96, she said, would always talk to Coby about how much he was making, how workers used to make 72 cents an hour, and what it was like coming up to Detroit from Alabama. Were all autoworkers and we looked forward to grandad coming over.

These discussions, she said, had a big impact on Jacoby. Just four months before his death, she said, Coby stopped the line when they wanted him to work when it was unsafe. He started the issue and they didnt like it because they were losing money. When he came home he talked about it and I said, You did what? He said, They wanted me to work and it wasnt safe. That was my son.

Before that, a skilled tradesman Coby was working with told him to go to human resources and ask about enrolling in the engineering program. When he went there they treated him like crap and told him he had to be full time to get his courses paid for. Coby said, I didnt ask that. I asked, how do I sign up?

Coby wasnt a kid. He wasnt scared. But they dont want someone who has their eyes open. The company and the union were probably saying Who does he think he is? They thought he was just a little temp with nobody behind him. They didnt know he worked at Chrysler and was loved.

In addition to the TPT job at the Ford Woodhaven plant, Jacoby had gotten a job at Fiat Chryslers Warren Truck plant in 2016. Coby would always talk about the job asking when he was going to get hired full time. No one believed he worked two part-time plant jobs at the same time. He didnt have to work at all. We would have supported him. But he saw how hard we worked, and he never took advantage. He wanted to earn his own money.

Referring to the conditions that young autoworkers face, she continued, Theyre paying new autoworkers what you can get at McDonalds and they think they can treat them like crap. Coby told me all he could ever get at Woodhaven was $19 an hour. I didnt believe it, but its in the UAW contract, she said, referring to the competitive wage structure the UAW imposed at the Woodhaven plant in 2015 to supposedly keep it from closing. After four years new workers max out at $19.86 while higher paid first-tier, referred to as surplus in the UAW contract, are being driven out of the plant.

Coby was everything to us. He loved his father and his family. Bernard and I were a power couple and we went to every game, every activity. Hes been snatched from us and we want to know why. Workers want respect for their kids, for the TPTs, so they can feel safe when they come to work. We have to open the doors to what is being hidden and help people see the bigger picture, so this doesnt happen to anyone elses child. Im tired of crying, I want answers.Last week, Jeremy Corbyn presented Labour-run Haringey Councils plan to hive off 2 billion in council assets into a partnership agreement with property developer Lendlease, as a special case.

Addressing an audience of Labour councillors and council leaders in Nottingham, he said Haringeys plan to demolish huge swathes of public housing to make way for 6,500 expensive private homes was highly controversial with local people worried about their futures. Haringey should, he stressed, be viewed as a unique situation.

What a rotten lie. In London especially, Labour is the main party associated with such despicable acts of social cleansing.

Britains capital is a playground for the financial elite, who have bought up property as a safe haven for their ill-gotten gains. Its housing market, rigged by successive governments, means only the rich, the very well-paid or those with generous parents can afford to buy.

This has pushed up house prices and rents and, together with the lack of public or social housing and the cap on Housing Benefit, forced out lower paid workers and their families to Londons fringes and beyond. The stress and isolation from family and friends has had a devastating impact on mental health.

Haringeys plan is only one of many such plans all over London that are forcing thousands of working class families out of the area and sparking mass protests. Refuting the rosy picture painted by Corbyn, the Financial Times, reflecting the concerns of the property developers and financial institutions, warned of how, Public anger over lucrative property contracts is calling into question future housing projects across London.

It cited an industry figure stating that local authorities in Camden, Vauxhall, Lambeth and Westminster are all facing growing opposition to their housing plans, with pressure building against development in every Labour-controlled borough in the capital. Haringey is the most extreme example, but there is a trend, whether its Camden or Hounslow, he said.

Corbyns evasions make clear that the decision by Labours National Executive Committee (NEC) to ask Haringey Council to put their plans on hold is little short of a pledge to the City that a Labour government under his leadership had no intention of curtailing any councils regeneration plans that have generated a bonanza for the banks and property developers.

Indeed, the NEC motion initially called only for the plans to be suspended, before Corbyn intervened personally to suggest mediation. His aim was to prevent a split in the local party that might end with the Blairite-right being driven out and which would risk galvanising broader opposition nationally.

Londons Labour-controlled boroughs are a battleground because council estates and social housing exist side by side with some of the most expensive property in the country. According to a London Assembly report in 2015, 50 previous council regeneration schemes resulted in a lossestimated at more than a quarterin the number of homes for social rent, despite an increase in the overall number of homes. The Independent estimated in 2015 that more than 50,000 families had been silently shipped out of London due to welfare cuts and soaring rents.

London councils own on average 25 to 30 percent of the land in their boroughs. Southwark Council owns 43 percent of the land in its borough. Councils work hand in glove with the building industry and property developers to demolish council estates and build higher density housing. Under the mantra of estate regeneration, 195 council-owned estates in Labour-run councils are being sold off to private developers against the wishes of residents, with luxury high-rises taking their place.

This massive land grab has been legitimised with propaganda vilifying council estates as crime ridden, poorly designed, run down and full of immigrants and benefit scroungers, fit only for demolition. In truth, crime rates on council estates are lower than in neighbouring areas, while their run-down state is the result of the councils failure to carry out repairs and maintenance that could easily be reversed.

None of the so-called development plans for Londons housing have any legitimacy. They are written by think tanks, research organisations, consultancies and university departments funded by interested parties. To cite one example, the Institute for Public Policy and Researchs (IPPR) report City Villages, which recommends that the main source of land for redevelopment is council estates, was funded and co-authored by Peabody housing associationone of the largest owners and managers of social housing in London.

Numerous studies have shown that refurbishment and the infill of existing estates could increase the number of homes by up to 50 percent and would be much cheaper than demolition. But the property developers and construction companies prefer new builds because building homes on high value land is akin to winning the lottery.

Labour councils have facilitated this, usually justifying it on the basis of the Conservative governments financial squeeze, to cover up their own close relations with the property developers. By 2020, local councils will be entirely dependent on the council tax, business rate and local charges, compared with 2010, when 80 percent of council funding came from central government.

The regeneration plans are sewn up in back room deals between councillors and property developers long before they are publicly announced, and consultations begin. Such consultations as are held are fraudulent: tenants and owners are lied to, given misleading information, and kept in the dark, amid false claims, never publicly demonstrated, that demolition is the only financially viable option. Any opposition is then ignored.

Just months after his election in September 2015, Corbyn and his closest political ally, Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, sent a letter to all Labour councils demanding they abide by the law and impose the Tories austerity cuts. They have followed his instruction to the letter.

Labour Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, who based his election campaign on a pledge to build 50 percent of affordable housing on all new developments, has reduced this to 35 percent. His much-vaunted London Living Rent, set at a third the average household salary in the locality, is in reality another incentive to get middle class home buyers on the property ladder at the expense of working class council tenants.

He has promised to ensure 90,000 new affordable homes in the next five years, priced at up to 80 percent of the astronomic market rate, mostly being for shared ownership! This will do nothing to help the 250,000 London households currently on housing waiting lists, or a similar number with 320,000 children living in overcrowded accommodation, or the 50,000 households with 78,000 children currently homeless and living in temporary accommodation.

Khans pledge to build 50,000 homes a year on demolished council estates was based on a report, Completing Londons Streets, written by the London Housing Commission. The London Housing Commission was set up by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), which is routinely referred to as a left-wing think tank. The IPPR is chaired by the chairman of Peabody and sponsored by real estate firm Savills.

Labour, no less than the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, has abandoned any commitment to what was once taken as axiomaticthat society would seek to improve social and living conditions by the public provision of high-quality housing.

The right to a decent home cannot be secured by returning a Corbyn-led Labour Party to governmental office. It can only be secured by the working class mobilising in an independent political offensive against the policies of austerity and war espoused by all the main political parties.The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), an alliance led by former President Mahinda Rajapakse, won a majority of votes and councils in last Saturdays local government elections. The SLPP, which gained about 4.9 million votes, now controls more than 239 out of the 341 councils in Sri Lanka.

The partners of the national unity governmentPresident Maithripala Sirisenas Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA) and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghes United National Party (UNP)contested the elections separately.

Sirisena attempted to distance himself from the UNP, the dominant party in the ruling coalition, hypocritically claiming that he was not responsible for the governments austerity measures.

The SLFP and UPFA secured a combined vote of about 1.5 million and the UNP polled around 3.6 million, giving them control of 10 and 41 councils, respectively. The UNPs council vote dropped by 1.4 million compared to the August 2015 general elections.

The Tamil National Alliance won 34 councilsa majority of the islands northern and eastern provinces. The Sinhala-chauvinist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) received around half a million votes and failed to win control of any councils. Other groups won the remaining councils.

While Saturdays result does not directly affect the central government, it is another indication of the mounting opposition of workers, rural poor and the youth to the ruling coalition.

Rajapakse was soundly defeated in the 2015 January presidential elections, having been utterly discredited by the governments escalating attacks on democratic rights and living conditions during his nearly 10-year rule and by the barbaric and bloody war against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ending in 2009.

Although formally Rajapakse led the SLFP-UPFA in the 2015 August general election, he did not join the government. Instead, a group of SLFP-UPFA parliamentarians organised separately around the former president. They later formed the SLPP to exploit the growing opposition to the government.

The SLPP issued no program during the latest council election. Instead it denounced the government, stirred up Sinhala communalism and claimed the ruling coalition had betrayed the country to the Tamil parties. The gains made by the SLPP in fact, represent a protest vote by wide layers of the population against the government.

As the Socialist Equality Party (SEP), which ran candidates in Kayts, Kolonnawa and Ambagamuwa, noted in a statement posted on January 9: The election has been declared amid widespread anti-government unrest among workers, the rural poor and youth that underscores the explosive social and political conditions on the island. Not a single day passes without such protests and struggles. All the parties of the political establishment are determined to prevent this developing movement from challenging capitalist rule, and to divert it into impotent appeals to the powers-that-be.

The run-up to last Saturdays elections was marked by strikes by power, railway, postal, plantation and water board workers, as well as protests by students against the privatisation of education. While these struggles have been scuttled by the trade unions, they reflect deep-seated opposition to the government and are part of a resurgence of the working class internationally.

Sirisena came to power in the 2015 presidential elections, promising to improve living and social conditions, restore democratic rights, abolish the draconian prevention of terrorism act, and overcome the disastrous social conditions in the North and the East created by the 26-year war against the LTTE.

After some initial cosmetic moves to increase wages and subsidies, the government, which confronted an economic crisis, turned to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and systematically imposed its austerity demands. The government pledged that the fiscal deficit, which was 7.5 percent of gross domestic product in 2015, would be halved by 2020, through the privatisation of education, health and other state-owned corporations and cuts in social subsidies.

During the council election, every establishment partythe SLFP, UNP, SLPP and JVPfuriously accused each other of corruption. This was a crude attempt to divert the attention of working people from the real issues they facethe worsening economic crisis and intensifying government efforts to tie Sri Lanka to the US war preparations against China.

In the aftermath of the council elections, Sirisena and Wickremesinghe are calculating how to continue.

During the election campaign, Sirisena desperately sought to disassociate himself from the government, posturing as a crusader against UNP and Rajapakse corruption. Sirisena even declared he would not continue in government with fraudsters.

Following discussions with SLFP-UPFA ministers, Sirisena told the media there would be notable changes to the government, but did not elaborate. With low polling for his party, and reduced executive powers following the 19th amendment to the constitution, Sirisena has little authority to make any changes. He also faces the possibility that some of his parliamentarians will cross over to the SLPP.

UNP general secretary Kabir Hasim issued a statement declaring that the people have shown us a danger signal but claimed this was a consequence of natural disasters like, floods, droughts and earth slips and huge debts left by the Rajapakse regime. While a section of the UNP is now pressing for government in its own right, it has only 106 seats in 225-member parliament.

Whether a fragile Sirisena-Wickremesinghe coalition continues or the UNP forms its own government, the administration will continue to move further to the right and to step up its assault on working people.

Sri Lanka has massive foreign loans to repay$US2.9 billion this year and $5 billion in 20192021. The IMF is also insisting that the government quickly implement its austerity pledges. At the same time, export earnings and economic growth are declining. Whichever party or combination of parties forms government, it will move toward dictatorial forms of rule in order to try to crush the resistance of working people.

For his part, Rajapakse declared: This election is a clear indication that people are fed up with inaction and want to rebuild Sri Lanka. Yesterday, SLPP group leader Dinesh Gunawardena, a close ally of Rajapakse, told a media conference the government has no option but to resign.

While Rajapakse will no doubt intensify his campaign to topple the government, his posturing about the plight of people is bogus. Three years ago, millions voted in national elections to reject his police-state methods and ruthless attacks on living conditions. He would again adopt authoritarian methods to impose the IMFs dictates.

Addressing a press conference yesterday, JVP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake blamed the population for voting for Rajapakse. If the people are approving and developing these kinds of criminal people they must also bear responsibility, he declared.

Workers and youth should reject this contemptuous attack. In 2015, the JVP joined hands with UNP and other right-wing forces to promote Sirisena as the only alternative to Rajapakses corrupt and thuggish rule. Only after the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe government became widely discredited did the JVP attempt to distance itself from the coalition. Moreover, the JVP previously backed the hated SLFP-led regimes of Rajapakse and former president Chandrika Kumaratunga.

The SEP was the only party in the council elections that provided a genuinely independent political alternative to these establishment parties. It explained to workers and youth the necessity for the establishment of a revolutionary workers and peasants government, based on a socialist program, as part of struggle for international socialism.Preliminary hearings proceeded last week in the criminal prosecution of four Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) officials charged for their roles in the Flint water crisis, caused by the switching of the citys water supply from treated Lake Huron water to the badly polluted Flint River, utilizing the citys outdated water plant.

The high-level MDEQ defendants are Stephen Busch, coordinator of the Office of Drinking Water, water engineer Michael Prysby, drinking water specialist Patrick Cook and Liane Shekter-Smith, the fired head of the departments drinking water unit. The MDEQ is the state agency that is directly responsible for safeguarding the public water supply, yet used its authority to run roughshod over any opposition to using Flint River water.

This body, unbeknownst to the public, issued the unheard-of order not to use corrosion inhibitors, wreaking havoc on the citys water infrastructure and causing toxic lead to leach from pipes into the water being delivered to peoples homes. The switch in the water supply also resulted in one of the countrys most severe outbreaks of Legionnaires disease, killing at least 12 people.

These are but four of the 15 criminal indictments by the Michigan state attorney generals office that have resulted from the investigation that began almost two years ago.

Information brought to light during last Mondays testimony deepens insight into the reckless and premeditated nature of the scheme hatched against the people of Flint. Before, during and after the switch from Great Lakes water to the Flint River, authorities responsible for public health ignored numerous warnings from experts in order to implement a plan that was based solely on the financial interests of an elite clique that stood to benefit from the change.

The most glaring of the revelations was the testimony of the division director of the Genesee County Drain Commission, John OBrien, who testified that in an early 2014 meeting, which included Flint Emergency Manager Darnell Earley, former Emergency Manager Gerald Ambrose, Public Works Director Howard Croft and Flint Mayor Dayne Walling, he warned of the dangers of putting Flints water treatment plant (WTP) into service after some 50 years of disuse.

Earley, Ambrose and Croft are all facing criminal charges in connection with their roles in the Flint crisis.

OBrien testified in the preliminary hearing of the four MDEQ officials, saying that he and others in his department had warned state and local officials in 2014, before the switch to Flint River water, that the citys antiquated water treatment plant was in no way capable of treating the water from the Flint River. OBrien is the second water treatment expert known to have warned against the use of the Flint WTP.

Mike Glasgow, the operator of the Flint WTP, also attempted to convince officials that the plant was not ready to treat Flint River water. He told MDEQ officials in April of 2014 that if water is distributed from this plant in the next couple weeks, it will be against my direction. This was made public in early 2016 when emails acquired through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests were reported in the media.

OBrien said that in the weeks before the scheduled switchover date, when Earley was in charge of the city, he saw a rush of construction activity inside the plant. He said major chlorination and clarifying equipment was not in operation, and several untrained employees had just been transferred from the sanitation department. They [had been] riding shotgun on a garbage truck before being brought to the WTP. The main difficulty with trainees [is] youre collecting data all day long they cant interpret it. They dont know if they are producing good water or not.

OBrien testified that he told the officials these are the concerns, these are the things you need to consider when making the switch to Flint River water. He added that he attempted to encourage and remind them that this was not the only option.

Describing Earleys response at the time, OBrien went on: [He] looked at Howard Croft, [who] stated, we have all these things taken care of. He looked to Jerry Ambrose. [Ambrose] was the financial controller for the city at that time. [He] said this is a good deal for the city of Flint.

He looked at Dayne Walling. [Walling] said this is good for the city of Flint. [Earley] informed usthese concerns we had are taken care of... They were going to continue with the switch to the river.

O'Brien stated that before the switch, he telephoned Stephen Busch (one of the four MDEQ officials on trial) to get an explanation as to why the department, which is responsible for overseeing the safety of drinking water throughout the state, was allowing Flint to use the old plant to treat the citys water.

He said Busch told him, We believed that plant was not ready to go based on [previous] conversations we had with the state and city, but he was directed to allow the plant to operate.

When the prosecutor asked OBrien how he perceived that message, he replied, My perception was either someone higher up at the DEQ or someone in [the state Treasury Department] gave the go-ahead.

The Michigan State Treasurer until October 2013 was Democrat Andy Dillon. He shared responsibility for rewriting the hated Emergency Manager Law that allowed the bankruptcy proceedings in Detroitwhere millions of dollars in municipal workers pension money was robbed and the citys water system was regionalizedto go forward.

While in office, Dillon authorized Flints disconnection from Detroit-supplied Lake Huron water and joining the Karegnondi Water Authority (KWA) pipeline plan even though the financial feasibility report he contracted recommended staying with the Detroit system which provided treated water from Lake Huron.New figures reveal an alarming rate of nurses departing from NHS England, resulting in a concerning downward trajectory in retention rates. The already strained National Health Service (NHS) is seeing an exodus of nurses on an unprecedented scale, at a time when the strain on the service has already reached breaking point.

Last year, 33,000 nurses left the NHS, meaning that 10 percent of the nursing workforce have left NHS employment in each of the past three years.

The data is from an annual report published by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN). In the introduction, it states that previous labour market review reports have warned of impending crises in the future supply of nursing staff, due to a lack of adequate workforce planning and workforce strategies. This years report shows that these warnings have inevitably been realised. Such is the crisis that the RCN estimates there are now 40,000 vacant nursing positions in the health service.

The report goes on to qualify that this has been driven by a perfect storm of inter-related issues affecting recruitment and retention, which include the Brexit vote to leave the European Union (EU), workload, pay pressures and the impact on new nursing staff due to the restrictive changes for prospective nursing students.

The 33,000 nurses who left the NHS could staff 20 hospitals and is a 20 percent rise on that of 2012-13. These figures were provided by NHS Digital. As part of an analysis of their data, the BBC noted that the gulf between those leaving and joining the profession was much narrower in the earlier period. It explained, Leavers outnumbered joiners by 3,000 last year, the biggest gap over the five-year period examined by the BBC.

These figures confirm earlier reports delivered by the Nursing and Midwifery Council and the Kings Fund think tank last autumn. They both issued stark warnings of the decline in nursing staff, which the Department for Health and Social Care dismissively rebutted as a mere 0.2 percent decrease from the previous year.

The Department for Health declared that since the start of the Conservative government in 2010in a coalition with the Liberal Democratsthe number of nurses has risen. However, figures show that it is a minute increase of just over 1 percent, whereas comparatively the population has grown by 5 percent. According to the BBC, the demands on NHS services as a whole have increased by somewhere between 10 and 20 percent in the same period.

The report highlights that staff across the board saw their real term median annual earnings fall by 14.3 percent between 2011 and 2017.

Applicants to study nursing in the UK have fallen steeply, with a 22.7 percent decline since 2016 as well as a 23.7 percent decline for those from the EU. Brexit has been chalked up as the obvious reason for such a decline for EU applicants. The changes in funding from bursaries to loans have had an adverse effect on UK applicants. Given 5 percent of nurses and midwives and 4 percent of auxiliary staff come from an EU country, the current post-Brexit situationwhich has seen no specific guarantees afforded to EU migrants to the UKthe figure is hardly surprising.

Various sources cite that NHS Improvementthe regulating body of the NHSalready has various measures in place to try to halt the exodus of nursing staff. These include transfer systems for those looking for new jobs, master classes in retention for Human Resources teams and nursing directors, and Awards schemes in recognition of achievement.

The government points to its historic increase of nursing training places by 25 percent. But Siva Anandaciva, chief analyst at the Kings Fund think tank, responded that training nurses takes many years and will not meet the short term needs of the NHS or its patients.

Any claimed increases are set to fall from August as postgraduate nurses, midwives and allied health professional students are being forced to take out student loans to cover their costs.

Undergraduate nurses had their bursaries abolished last year, which immediately led to a 23 percent slump in the number of applications by students in England to universities nursing and midwifery courses.

Some 1,000 trainees, who are postgraduate students, come into the profession every year and receive a bursary for tuition and maintenance, worth up to 8,000 a year. This bursary is also being ended, with the postgraduates forced to take out loans from the Student Loans Company.

The lack of resources, both material and human, continues to undermine the worlds largest national health service, which is 70 years old this year. The systematic assault on the NHS by successive governments has taken its toll and the cracks are ever more evident. The scenes over the Christmas periodwith thousands of people unable to access basis health care and scores of people dying whilst waiting for ambulances and on trolleys in hospital corridorsdemonstrate the terrible impact of the slashing of the NHS funding.

In an unprecedented letter, dated January 10, doctors representing 68 A&E (accident and emergency) departments wrote to Prime Minister Theresa May that the NHS is chronically underfunded. We have insufficient hospital and community beds and staff of all disciplines especially at the front door to cope with our ageing populations health needs.

The letter notes that [t]housands of patients are waiting in ambulances for hours as the hospitals lack adequate space, citing scientific publications and the length of time patients are expected to stay in Emergency Departments (ED), impacting negatively on mortality rates. The letter concluded by quoting the NHS constitution of 1948: The NHS belongs to the people  it touches our lives at times of basic human need when care and compassion are what matter most. For the ruling elite, these sentiments are a dead letter.

The growing privatisation of the NHS is the unstated goal of the Tory government and its big business backers. Recent figures revealed a further 3.1 billion out of the roughly 101 billion budget of the NHS was hived off to the private sector last year alone. This onslaught sees private companies now in control of 43 percent, an increase of 9 percent on last years 34 percent share.

Despite the pledges by the trade union bureaucracy to organise a fight in defence of the NHS, they have not lifted a finger as the government has intensified its attacks. The unions refused to mobilise their membership for a national demonstration in defence of the NHS last week.

All that is offered up are dead-end appeals to a government hell-bent on destroying the NHS. Commenting on its figures on nurses leaving the profession, head of the RCN, Janet Davies, declared The government must lift the NHS out of this dangerous and downward spiral. We are haemorrhaging nurses at precisely the time when demand has never been higher.

Along these lines, the RCN report notes of the Torys initiatives: While it is surely welcome that attention is being paid to ensuring future supply, this must not be done at the expense of hollowing out the nursing profession and undermining the role of the registered nurse. This will be the inevitable consequence of continued failure to invest in the workforce alongside the substitution of the registered nurse role with non-registered staff.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn absented himself from the demonstration, despite stating at last years national NHS protest that Labour would defend the NHS as Weve got the faith, weve got the fight and we are up for it!

The struggle to defend the NHS cannot be conducted by any of the bourgeois parties, but only on the basis of the fight to build an independent party of the working class, based on a socialist perspective. This is the programme fought for by the Socialist Equality Party and its NHS Fightback campaign initiative.

For further information visit NHS FightBack and the NHS FightBack Facebook page.

The author recommends:

Virgin Care and other private companies seize another 3.1 billion of NHS contracts

[15 January 2018]As Democrats and Republicans celebrate last weeks budget deal that funds the federal government through March 23 without providing any protections for 800,000 DACA recipients, a nightmare is playing out across America for 12 million undocumented people.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported 143,470 arrests in the 2017 fiscal year, a 30 percent increase from 2016. Though ICE raids increased dramatically in all regions, the figure is half the total number arrested in 2009, Obamas first full year in office. The areas with the largest increases in ICE arrests from 2016 to 2017 are Florida (76 percent), Dallas (71 percent), St. Paul, Minnesota (67 percent), followed by New Orleans, Atlanta, Boston, and Detroit (over 50 percent each).

On January 30, Houston school police detained an undocumented student after a scuffle at Stephen Austin High School. Police turned the teenager over to immigration agents, who sent him to an immigration detention center where he has been held for nearly two weeks. The boy, Dennis Rivera, had been accepted to computer science programs at two Texas colleges, but now faces imminent deportation.





On February 8, immigration agents denied a request by 30-year-old Jesus Berrones to remain in the US to care for his young child who suffers from leukemia and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Berrones, who now lives in Arizona, was himself brought to the US in 1989 when he was one year old.





Construction worker Carlos Gudiel Andres was arrested in front of his Houston apartment on his way to work on January 19. ICE agents had no warrant for his arrest but grabbed him randomly after staking out apartments in working class immigrant neighborhoods. Gudiel called his wife from the detention center: Immigration has me. Dont come yourself or they will get you too.





A Bangladeshi chemistry professor, Syed Ahmed Jamal, was arrested in front of his home in Lawrence, Kansas on January 24 while taking his daughter to school. Jamal has three children, aged 7, 12, and 14, and has lived in the US for 30 years. He is now detained in a jail in Missouri, 160 miles from his family. His oldest child, Taseen, wrote on Facebook, My little brother cries every night, my sister cant focus in school, and I cannot sleep at night.





Dishwasher Luis Candela-Gonzalez was arrested in Arden Hills, Minnesota in January. ICE documents show the agency targeted Candela-Gonzalez after his wife filed a legal complaint against managers of her mobile home park who repeatedly called ICE agents on impoverished residents. ICE argued against releasing Candal-Gonzalez because he was politically active with an immigrant rights group the government claimed is known to provide shelter and safety to illegals from authorities.





Immigration agents arrested 14 construction workers staying at a hotel in Colchester, Vermont at 5 a.m. on January 18. Despite being asked for help by immigration rights groups, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders has made no public statement on the raid.





Immigration attorneys in Los Angeles report that undocumented immigrants are being sent jury duty summons that ask them to admit they are non-citizens in a trap to arrest them if they appear at court.





Twenty-three-year-old asylum seeker Laura Monterrosa attempted suicide in January after exposing widespread sexual abuse by guards at the T. Don Hutto detention center in Texas, which is owned by the for-profit corporation CoreCivic. After speaking out Monterrosa was forced to eat in the same cafeteria as the female guard who repeatedly molested her multiple times.



I feel very desperate because I tried to report the abuse from ICE and facility officials, but they continue to psychologically abuse me through intimidation, Monterrosa said after being released from the hospital, adding, I do not feel safe or secure. I am not receiving the medical treatment or help I need.

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner denied clemency for a US Army veteran who faces deportation this month. Miguel Perez Jr., who fought in the war in Afghanistan and suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), was arrested in 2008 on a drug charge. The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in January that he would not be in danger if deported to Mexico. His parents took him to live in the US when he was just eight years old.





An ICE agent allegedly posed as an Amazon delivery worker in an attempt to enter a student housing center at the University of California, Berkeley, where many immigrant students live. A student working at the building refused to let the agent in.





Twenty-seven-year-old Aboubacar Dembele, who was brought to the US at age three from the Ivory Coast, was arrested outside of a Bronx courthouse at a routine court date. Dembeles wife, a 24-year-old US citizen, said, It was like eight of them stepped in front of us. It was an ambush. After the arrest, 75 public defenders walked out of court in protest.





In another notable act of defiance, a Montana Department of Labor employee, Jordon Dyrdahl-Roberts, quit his job after ICE asked him to turn over names and addresses of undocumented workers. I put in my two weeks noticeThere were going to be ICE subpoenas for information that would end up being used to hunt down & deport undocumented workersI refuse to just follow orderscooperation with this regime is not acceptable, he said in a tweet that has been shared 50,000 times.

The Democratic Party has explicitly sought to direct attention away from these raids and arrests for fear that demonstrations or protests will spread and cut across their efforts to pressure the Trump administration to carry out a more aggressive foreign policy, primarily against Russia. Last week, the Democrats provided Trump with the votes required to pass a budget bill that puts 800,000 DACA recipients at risk of deportation but which provides the military with $1.4 trillion over two years.

The two parties are now preparing to take up DACA on Capitol Hill this week. All those involved have made clear that the immigration debate will take place on the most right-wing basis, with both Democrats and Republicans already agreeing to massive funding for the building of a militarized border wall, tighter restrictions on family migration, and increased funds for the ICE and Border Patrol. Any agreement will have to win approval from Trump, who has called for reducing the immigrant population of the US by 22 million in the coming decades.

Along these lines the Trump administration has drafted a new plan to block immigrants from achieving legal residency if they use food stamps, healthcare subsidies, or other public programs, which will pave the way for a crackdown on the millions who are properly documented. Non-citizens who receive public benefits are not self-sufficient  An aliens receipt of public benefits comes at taxpayer expense and availability of public benefits may provide an incentive for aliens to immigrate to the United States, a draft of the proposal reads.

Whatever deal emerges from Washington will set the political framework for mass raids and deportations in the weeks and months to come. Opposing the Gestapo-like round-up of immigrants is a fight to defend the democratic rights of all workers, immigrant and non-immigrant alike. It requires a break from both parties and must be based on mobilizing the working class, the worlds chief progressive social force, to ensure the right of all people to travel across the world without fear of harassment or deportation.

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A socialist strategy is needed to defend immigrants!

[27 January 2018]Medicaid work requirements, such as those recently adopted by the state of Kentucky, are predicted to lead to unfavorable health outcomes for the poor and disabled, according to a recent report from Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP).

Although the Trump administration and representatives for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have claimed that the work requirements would lead to better health outcomes, increased employment, and lower poverty rates, the obvious goal of work requirements is to reduce the Medicaid rolls by forcing recipients through prohibitive bureaucratic mazes.

In January, the Trump administration announced that states could apply for waivers to impose work requirements on Medicaid recipients. CMS administrator Seema Verma said that work requirements were about helping people achieve the American dream. Although she acknowledged that the result would be a reduction in the number of Medicaid recipients, she framed this as a good outcome, with fewer people needing the program because they would be employed.

Despite assurances by the Trump administration and CMS officials that pregnant women, the disabled, and the medically frail would be exempted from work requirements, the CMS has not specifically exempted these populations; they have only advised states to do so. Furthermore, while the CMS suggests a number of alternatives to the work requirements, such as volunteering or job training, states are prohibited from using Medicaid funds to create job training programs.

As the CBPP report states, these restrictions do not help Medicaid recipients find gainful employment. To the contrary, they only force burdensome paperwork and documentation requirements upon the 25 million Americans who receive Medicaidmost of whom are either working or are unable to work.

The CBPPs research demonstrates that 60 percent of Medicaid recipients are already working. In states that institute work requirements, these people will be forced to add monthly paperwork to their work and family obligations. Fifteen percent of Medicaid enrollees are ill or disabled, 12 percent are caregivers for small children, 6 percent are going to school, and 4 percent are retired; another 2 percent have been unable to find employment. All of these people will be required to report monthly to their state Medicaid offices, or they will face losing their benefits.

Numerous studies of other federal assistance programs, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF), have demonstrated that states frequently make errors in the administration of work programs that have deprived people of benefits. Moreover, people with disabilities, substance abuse disorders, and the seriously or chronically ill are disproportionately vulnerable to benefit suspension and interruption.

Workers whose hours fluctuate from week-to-week, such as those in the food service and construction industries, are also likely to face interruptions in their benefits, according to the CBPP. Those who are disabled but have not yet qualified for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), those with mental illnesses, and those with substance use disorders will likely find that, while their illnesses and disabilities pose significant obstacles to employment, they do not qualify for exemption from their states work requirements.

The CBPP reports that work requirements are unlikely to increase employment and, in fact, are predicted to be counterproductive to their supposed goals. The disingenuous claims that work requirements increase employment and well-being are not supported by studies on other programs, such as SNAP and TANF. Rather, as the CBPP report states, they generally have only modest and temporary effects on employment, failing to increase long-term employment or reduce poverty.

These studies consistently confirm the fact that dangling health care and sustenance over peoples heads fails to reduce poverty or to increase full-time employment. Studies also confirm how vital health care is to those who are employed. Seventy-five percent of unemployed Ohioans, and 55 percent of unemployed Michiganders, reported that medical coverage made it easier to search for jobs. Sixty-nine percent of working adults in Michigan and 52 percent of working adults in Ohio reported that medical coverage enabled them to work and to be better at their jobs. These numbers give the lie to CMS claims that work requirements will lead to greater employment and better health for impoverished Americans.

The CMS guidelines do not increase staffing or funding for state Medicaid programs, although the work requirements will increase the amount of paperwork to be processed by state agencies. For many Medicaid recipients, the very nature of their disorders makes paperwork an almost insurmountable requirement. When these people are shoved off of the rolls, it will not be because they have suddenly found themselves capable of working, but because they could not complete the paperwork without assistance. There is no logical expectation that such incidents will lead to better health.

The statements made by the Trump administration, the CMS, and state officials advocating for work requirements play upon the tired trope of lazy and unmotivated benefit seekers. In reality, most able-bodied people who do not work are not unemployed because they are lazy, but because, as the CBPP states, they lack access to work supports such as job search assistance, job training, child care, and transportation assistance; they may also face challenges such as an undiagnosed substance use disorder, domestic violence, the need to care for an ill family member, or a housing crisis.

Allowing states to enforce work requirements upon Medicaid recipients will not resolve such issues. State Medicaid programs generally are not well equipped to provide or connect families with work support services, which are already oversubscribed in most states, says the CBPP. In addition, not only do the CMS guidelines fail to require states to offer such work supports, they prohibit them from using Medicaid funds to create such programs.

Those in public office who support these requirements are not ignorant of the facts. Work requirements serve no other purpose but to destroy the Medicaid program piecemeal, at the cost of the health and well-being of the poor.The Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) is to build a new NATO headquarters in Germany. According to information from the Deutsche Presse Agentur (DPA), the member states of the military alliance have agreed in principle to accept an offer from German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen (CDU, Christian Democratic Union). There were no other candidates for the headquarters. The official decision is due to be announced at the Defence Ministers' meeting this week.

A possible location for the new headquarters is the Cologne-Bonn region. The Bundeswehr already has its Joint Support Service and Armed Forces Office situated there. The Defence Ministry said that the establishment of a new planning and command centre for rapid troop and material transports was part of NATO's ongoing modifications. According to a spokesman for the ministry, Germany was one of the nations that is fundamentally eligible for the establishment and operation of this command, given its competences, its recognition in the Alliance and its central geographical position.

In reality, Germany, which has been massively upgrading its military capacity since 2014 and trying to increase its military weight within NATO, would become even more strongly involved in NATO preparations for war against Russia than before. Last autumn, a report in Der Spiegel quoted from a secret document of the military alliance underscoring how far the plans have progressed.

In the paper, titled Progress Report on the Alliance's Strengthened Deterrence and Defence Posture, leading NATO military officials plead for a marked strengthening of military capabilities to be able to lead a so-called Major Joint Operation Plus. The term describes a war in which the major military organizations of all NATO countries, and thus hundreds of thousands of soldiers, are involved.

The secret report further states that NATO must be able to rapidly reinforce a threatened ally or allies, to underpin deterrence in peacetime and crises, and to reinforce an ally or allies for defense in case of attack. It must be empowered to mobilize and retain troops quickly, whatever the nature, demand, destination or duration of the operation, mission or activity. This would require a robust civil/military logistics structure and enabling capabilities with lines of communications ranging from North America to the eastern and southern borders of the Alliance territory, including intra-European routes.

The plans drawn up behind the backs of the population are so far-reachingamong other things, to make the civil infrastructure (roads, rail networks and airports) combat ready and to better organize suppliesthat even the newsweekly Der Spiegel concluded, In other words: NATO is preparing for a possible war with Russia.

It is no coincidence that the construction of a new NATO headquarters in Germanya second, according to the DPA, is to be built in the United States to secure the air and sea routes between North America and Europe across the Atlanticwas made public just a day after the agreement between Social Democrats (SPD) and Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) to form a new edition of the grand coalition. In the coalition agreement, the parties pledge to make an appropriate contribution to preserving the deterrence and defence capability of the [NATO] Alliance and to a strong European defence.

The section, Germany as a Reliable Partner in NATO, OSCE and the Council of Europe, also states, We want to strengthen the European contribution to the transatlantic partnership and are committed to closer cooperation between NATO and the EU. We want to achieve the agreed NATO capability goals and fill in capability gaps.

With this formulation, the CDU/CSU and the SPD are obviously committed to raising defence spending to the agreed NATO minimum of two percent of Gross Domestic Product by 2024. But what else is included? What specific war plans have the SPD and CDU/CSU representatives already approved when they negotiated the coalition agreement as part of a veritable conspiracy behind the backs of the people?

Would the German government, which played a central role in the pro-Western coup in Ukraine in 2014 and has had combat troops stationed in Lithuania for more than a year, take part in a US-led NATO war against Russia? Or does the ruling class in Germany see the new headquarters primarily as an opportunity to prepare German-European war missions independently of NATO?

The special feature of the new headquarters in Germany is that it will not be integrated into the existing NATO command structure. This could also make it possible to use the staff and the capacity for national exercises and operations outside the Alliance, according to the articles by the DPA .The National Defense Strategy released by the Trump administration last month defined China and Russia as the paramount strategic competition facing US imperialism. It labelled the two nuclear-armed states as revisionist powers that must be prevented from undermining American global dominance. The document declared that the US had to prioritize preparedness for war.

The American military has been doing precisely that in Asia for over six years, since the Obama administration announced its provocative pivot to the region in November 2011. It has prepared and positioned a vast array of surface ships, submarines, bombers, jet-fighters, infantry divisions and marine units to wage a region-wide war against China. New bases for US forces have been established in Australia and Singapore and re-established in the Philippines and Thailand. India, which has been groomed as a strategic partner against China, now provides access, maintenance and supply arrangements to the US military.

The US has some 50,000 personnel in Okinawa and elsewhere in Japan, including 18,000 marines, an aircraft carrier battlegroup and squadrons of Air Force jet fighters. It has some 29,500 personnel in South Korea, on the frontline of any conflict with North Korea. Guam hosts 7,000 military personnel, as well as B-52 and B2 strategic bombers capable of delivering nuclear weapons.

On February 9, the Wall Street Journal reported on the next stage of the concentration of American power in Asia. The Pentagon is considering deploying to the region the three West Coast-based Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs), which have primarily been used in Iraq and the Middle East over the past decade or more.

MEUs consist of 2,200 marines, jet fighters and helicopters aboard amphibious assault ships, accompanied by guided-missile cruisers and destroyers, support vessels and often an attack submarine. In a twenty-first century version of gunboat diplomacy, if deployed, they will roam up to seven months at a time throughout the region to persuade Pacific nations to stand with the US against China.

Pentagon officials told the Journal that the MEUs could conduct patrols and training with allies and could respond if a conflict were to break out. While left unstated, a potential role for amphibious forces would be to attack and seize the Chinese-held islets and reefs in the South China Sea, which the Chinese military has been developing into forward bases against the US Navy.

General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told journalists as he toured US facilities in the northern Australian city of Darwin last week: We have enduring interests here, and we have an enduring commitment and we have an enduring presence here. Pentagon officials foreshadowed that the number of marines sent from Okinawa to operate from Darwin for six months of the year will be significantly increased this March and over coming years.

In the short-term, the US military is preparing for the prospect of a massive onslaught against North Korea, followed by an invasion to overthrow its regime and drastically alter the balance of power in North East Asia. This would be to the direct strategic detriment of China and Russia, which border the economically destitute country of barely 25 million people.

The conduct over the weekend of US Vice President Michael Pence, during the opening days of the Winter Olympics in South Korea, was ominous.

The South Korean government went out of its way to welcome the participation of a North Korean team and extend diplomatic honours to Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and the isolated countrys nominal head of state, Kim Yong-nam. Tentative steps were taken toward talks between the two Koreas on winding down the current state of tensions which, if it resulted in war, could lead to hundreds of thousands of casualties and the economic and social ruination of both sides of the peninsula.

Pence, in a calculated display of imperialist arrogance and contempt for both South and North Korea, made clear that the US had no interest in a peaceful settlement. He walked out of a state dinner, refusing to even speak with the Norths leadership, then remained seated as the united team of the Koreas paraded as one in the Opening Ceremony.

These diplomatic affronts serve only one purpose: to send an unmistakable message that the Trump administration will only accept an outcome that turns North Korea into a client-state of the United States. Washington is demanding the complete capitulation of Kim Jong-uns regime. The alternative is activating plans, already in place, to implement Trumps threat to totally destroy North Korea with fire and fury.

In chilling remarks, General Dunford told US marines in Darwin: [A]t the end of the day, it is going to be a nasty war if we fight on the Korean Peninsula. And its going to involve marines and soldiers taking ground, alongside, obviously, our allies and partners. If you are a marine, and frankly if you are anyone in uniform, if you wake up in the morning always believing that this is the last day that you will be at peace, you are going to be in the right place.

What else is North Korea supposed to conclude from such actions and statements except that the militaries of the US, South Korea, Japan, Australia and other American allies and partners are being primed for combat in the wake of the Winter Olympics?

The contradictions of capitalism have brought the world to the brink of what would likely be the most horrific and costly conflict since World War II. The American ruling class, beset with internal crises and incapable of dictating to the world as it once did, has concluded that the escalation of 25 years of militarist violence is the only way to prevent its intractable decline.

Even if China and Russia stood aside from a war on the Korean Peninsula, such a conflict would heighten the danger of great power wars fought with nuclear weapons. The regimes in Beijing and Moscow, likewise representing crisis-stricken capitalist oligarchs, are actively preparing for an inevitable military confrontation with the United States. In the think-tanks and militaries of the European imperialist powers, calculations are also being made that conflict with Washington may ultimately be unavoidable.

In 1915, in the resolution he proposed to the anti-war conference in the Swiss village of Zimmerwald, Russian revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin wrote:

All the objective conditions of recent times have put the proletariats revolutionary mass struggle on the order of the day. It is the duty of socialists, while making use of every means of the working classs legal struggle, to subordinate each and every one of those means to this immediate and most important task, develop the workers revolutionary consciousness, rally them in the international revolutionary struggle, promote and encourage any revolutionary action, and do everything possible to turn the imperialist war between the peoples into a civil war of the oppressed classes against their oppressors, a war for the expropriation of the class of capitalists, for the conquest of political power by the proletariat, and the realisation of socialism.

Today, that perspective is fought for by the International Committee of the Fourth International, which must be built as the leadership of the international working class.The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) confirmed last Thursday that a proposed enterprise agreement covering train staff throughout Sydney and New South Waleshatched by the state Liberal-National government in backroom discussions with the unionwould facilitate job cuts.

The admission is further evidence that the RTBU is doing everything it can to strike a sell-out deal that will intensify the assault on rail workers conditions and accelerate privatisation measures.

The union announced a new government offer in an online statement last Wednesday. Speaking to the media the next day, RTBU state secretary Alex Claassens declared that the union was very close on all the conditions to recommending the agreement to rail workers.

The RTBU has touted a meagre wage increase of 3 percent per annum. The reality is that 3 percent is nowhere near the soaring cost of living. In 2017, average national electricity costs increased by 12.4 percent, education costs by 4.1 percent, health insurance by 4 percent, general health care costs by 5.4 percent and petrol by 10 percent.

The real purpose of the marginal pay rise is to provide the union and the government with a pretext for imposing cuts to jobs and conditions. Last Thursday, NSW Liberal-National Premier Gladys Berejiklian made clear that the 0.5 percent increase above the governments public sector wage cap of 2.5 percent per annum was in exchange for unspecified givebacks.

If any class of employees want more than that they have to give things upand thats whats happened in this case, Berejiklian stated. The premier confirmed that this included further job destruction, to which the union had agreed.

RTBU NSW secretary Alex Claassens effectively confirmed this, telling reporters. I dont want to see any job cuts. I would love it if they got their numbers all wrong and we didnt lose anybody. But I am confident there is a range of conditions in these documents, now, which give us a measure of protection.

Explaining Claassens comments, an article on news.com.au stated last Thursday: The Rail Tram and Bus Union accepted there would be job cuts when new technology was introduced but believes the latest offer requires proper consultation.

The sudden announcement that job cuts are part of the deal is an indictment of the backroom manoeuvres of the RTBU. Throughout the dispute over a new enterprise agreement, the union has done everything it can to keep rail workers in the dark.

The RTBU enforced the ruling of the Fair Work Commission banning a scheduled January 29 strike and all other industrial action. As in countless disputes, the unions have invoked the judgment by the pro-business industrial tribunalwhich was created by the previous federal Labor government with the full support of the unionsto prevent any independent political and industrial struggle by workers.

Over the past weeks, the RTBU has engaged in closed-door negotiations with the government and NSW transport authorities to work out the terms of a betrayal. Rail workers have been told nothing about what has been under discussion.

At the same time, the RTBU has sought to muzzle growing anger among workers. It has enforced a Transport for NSW gag preventing workers from speaking on any aspect of the dispute, and shut down comments on the unions Facebook page last month, after a number of workers warned against the preparations for a sell-out. The RTBU also has refused to call any mass meetings.

The reason for the unions anti-democratic conduct is clear. It does not want workers to know what it is preparing to enforce on behalf of the government and big business. Claassens and the RTBU have given no indication of how many job cuts they have agreed to, in which areas, or over what time frame.

The bare one-page summary of the agreement provided to workers last week makes no mention of job destruction. Instead it indicates that the RTBU will agree to Changes to Frontline Management and other unspecified cuts to conditions. Enterprise agreements are complex legal documents often spanning hundreds of pages, with each clause potentially holding significant implications.

Previous sell-out agreements struck by the RTBU give an indication of the scale of the job cuts on the agenda. The 2008 deal facilitated the Labor governments demands for the axing of 417 rail jobs. Labors transport minister John Watkins hailed the agreement for ensuring reform in the industry during the next two years, including mass sackings.

The 2014 enterprise agreement removed clauses prohibiting forced redundancies, and abolished provisions requiring that workers redeployed to new positions retain their original salary. The RTBU forced through the deal in the face of substantial opposition, with up to a third of rail workers casting a ballot against the sell-out.

The 2014 agreement was hailed by the financial press as a victory for Berejiklian, then transport minister, while the government said it would save more than $20 million per year. The deal directly facilitated the retrenchment of 500 station staff between 2014 and 2017, roughly a quarter of the total.

The latest enterprise agreements follow decades of union-enforced cuts, including the RTBUs close collaboration with successive state Labor governments, from 1996 to 2011, as they eliminated thousands of jobs, shut down rail facilities and privatised freight services. These betrayals have resulted in the current crisis facing rail workers, including long hours of forced overtime, up to 12 consecutive days work in a fortnight and chronic understaffing.

The RTBU will undoubtedly try to force workers to vote on the latest deal without having the opportunity to read or discuss it. This is why the union has endorsed rail managements statement that it would take the deal directly to workers in depot meetings, which could begin this week. The sole purpose of such forums, presided over by management executives, would be to intimidate and silence rail workers, while identifying those who speak out for victimisation.

The record makes clear that rail workers should reject any offer put by the RTBU and Transport for NSW. This must be the starting point of a broader rebellion against the union, including through the establishment of new forms of struggle, such as independent rank and file committees. These would be tasked with organising a unified fightback of rail and public transport workers against the assault on jobs, wages and conditions.

Above all, the rail dispute highlights the need for an alternative political perspective. In opposition to the wretched corporatism of the unions, a new program is required that rejects the subordination of public transport, along with every aspect of social life, to the profit demands of a tiny corporate elite. This means the fight for a workers government that would implement socialist policies, including placing the banks, corporations and transport under public ownership and democratic workers control.25 Years Ago | 50 Years Ago | 75 Years Ago | 100 Years Ago

25 years ago: Haiti ferry sinking kills hundreds

Haiti

On February 17, 1993, an overcrowded ferry travelling from the provincial city of Jeremie to Port-au-Prince capsized and sank off of Haitis southern peninsula, killing many hundreds of passengers. The precise death toll was never learned, but some estimates put the figure at approximately 1,200, with as many as 1,500 on board the 150-foot vessel The Neptunewhen it sunk in the midst of a heavy rainfall. The Red Cross counted only 285 survivors.

Haitis poverty was such that, in the absence of phone lines and roads, nothing was known of the sinking for more than 24 hours, until corpses began washing ashore on the beaches near the towns of Miragoane and Petit-Goave.

The majority of those on board were poor peasants heading for the market in Port-au-Prince, who paid the equivalent of $7 for the 18-hour overnight trip. The vessel was especially crowded because its regular weekly trip had been canceled several times, largely because the owners feared that desperate Haitians trying to flee the country might hijack the vessel to break through a US quarantine of the island. The US Coast Guard, on President Clintons orders, had a flotilla of more than 20 vessels in international waters off Haiti for the purpose of preventing refugees from escaping the military dictatorship nominally headed by Marc Bazin.

Several days before the ferry disaster, 40 human rights observers from the Organization of American States and five from the United Nations arrived in Haiti, tasked with overseeing the transition from military dictatorship to bourgeois democracy and the eventual return to power of President Aristide, who had been deposed in September of 1991.

[top]

50 years ago: Tet Offensive provokes crisis in Johnson administration

A 1968 Cabinet meeting with, left, Secretary of State Dean Rusk, President Johnson and Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, far right

On February 12, 1968, in the wake of the Tet offensive, President Lyndon Johnson held private meetings with his top generals to discuss US strategy in Vietnam. They reviewed a proposal from General William Westmoreland, the top American commander in Vietnam, to expand the war and bring in reinforcements exceeding 200,000 troops.

The consultation came as the casualty toll mounted. American losses in the first 12 days of the Tet offensive were higher than any yet sustained in a similar time period, 973 killed and 4,874 wounded. The puppet regime in South Vietnam reported that its forces suffered 2,119 killed and 7,718 wounded during the same period.

Fighting still raged on the outskirts of Saigon and the National Liberation Front continued to hold the city of Hue. They were meanwhile tightening the siege of 5,000 US Marines at Khe Sanh. In one of the most stunning setbacks of the war, on February 7, the NLF overran the Special Forces camp at Lang-Vei, wiping out more than 900 South Vietnamese militia along with their US advisers.

Under conditions of mounting opposition at home, the call for a further escalation threatened to destroy the credibility of the Johnson administration, which only weeks earlier claimed to see light at the end of the tunnel. To commit large new forces would require the extension of the draft and an extensive call-up of the reserves. Johnson hesitated and then decided against any immediate action. A token additional contingent of 10,500 men was instead ordered to Vietnam. Later in the month Johnson ordered General Earle Wheeler, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to Vietnam to meet personally with Westmoreland and assess the situation.

Having concluded by mid-1967 that the war could not be won, Defense Secretary Robert McNamara was slated to step down at the end of the month. Incoming Defense Secretary Clark Clifford was ordered to assemble a task force to analyze the options open for US imperialism in Vietnam.

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75 years ago: Goebbels announces Nazi program of total war

Goebbels speaking in 1934

On February 18, 1943, Joseph Goebbels, Nazi Germanys Reich Minister of Propaganda, announced a policy of total war in a speech at Berlin Sportpalast. The declaration followed a series of German defeats, including the destruction of an entire German army by Soviet forces at Stalingrad.

Addressing 14,000 Nazi supporters, Goebbels spoke as the representative of an increasingly nervous regime. Acknowledging that Germany faced a serious crisis on the Eastern front, Goebbels declared, Stalingrad was and is fates great alarm call to the German nation! He admitted that the Nazis had underestimated the Soviet Unions ability to resist the fascist onslaught, commenting we did not properly evaluate the Soviet Unions war potential. Only now do we see its true scale.

Goebbels speech was full of the anti-Semitic and fascist rhetoric of the German regime, and underscored the regimes intense fear of the working class. The speech included 47 references to Bolshevism and multiple warnings of the specter of socialist revolution across Europe and internationally.

Calling for all-out mobilization against the Soviet Union, Goebbels demanded curtailment of the production and consumption of luxury items, and the use of all spare labour, including from women, for war industries.

Despite Goebbels bombastic pronouncements, few serious measures followed the speech. Even before the war began, Germany had introduced rationing and geared industry to war production, a process that escalated rapidly after 1942. While taking symbolic measures against some luxury consumption, the Nazis were fearful of inflaming growing opposition to their regime. The mobilization did not solve the growing labor crisis Germany faced. At the same time, the government and ruling elite were increasingly beset by bitter conflicts.

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100 years ago: Wilson accuses shipyard strikers of giving aid and comfort to the enemy

A 1918 panorama of New York City

In a February 17, 1918 telegram sent to William L. Hutcheson, general president of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners, Democratic President Woodrow Wilson rejected the union leaders request for a meeting to resolve labor unrest on East Coast docks, and instead issued an ultimatum: Will you cooperate or will you obstruct?

Strike action by thousands of shipyard carpenters in the ports of New York and Baltimore, in particular, brought down upon them the wrath of the entire ruling class, the press and the leadership of the American Federation of Labor.

A union leader explained his members main grievance: The Labor Adjustment Board fixed a rate of $6.60 a day on the Pacific Coast where the cost of living is much higher than here. The nominal rate here is $4.88 a day ... But the men have not been getting it. Because of great unemployment among carpenters... the shipyard owners have been able to take advantage of the workmen. This has been done mainly in the way of putting skilled carpenters in the class of unskilled or semiskilled labor and paying them in some cases as low as $3 a day.

A general strike among 15,000-20,000 shipyard carpenters in the New York harbor nearly broke out after 100 workers involved in the walkout received notices to appear at the draft board and bring proof of your employment with the Staten Island Shipbuilding Company, properly signed by your firm. The firm had, of course, refused to supply the letters, making the workers vulnerable to the draft. Union leaders managed to stifle the strike movement.

In his February 17 telegram, Wilson declared, No body of men have the moral right to strike in the present circumstances of the nation ... If you do not act upon this principle, you are undoubtedly giving aid and comfort to the enemy, whatever may be your own conscious purpose.

[top]A committee of lawmakers Monday will vote on recommended spending priorities designed to help Utah's environment, with requests that include dollars for air quality research, grazing improvement programs, removal of invasive plants at Utah Lake and wild horse management.

There are about 100 funding considerations before the Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environmental Quality Appropriations Subcommittee. About 40 of them involve shuffling money around in restricted accounts - like letting the state parks division dip into fee revenue for capital improvements - and another 60 or so involve requests for either one-time money or ongoing appropriations.

The requests run the gamut and represent the myriad needs across the state to manage Utah's natural resources.

In a meeting last week detailing those funding requests, Rep. Carl Albrecht, R-Richfield, described the impetus behind a desired half-million dollars to continue work being done around the state via the grazing improvement program.

A collaborative effort playing out in Rich County involves more than 30 ranchers working in conjunction with federal, state and local agencies in a pilot project that incorporates rotational grazing of some 3,200 head of cattle and 3,000 sheep. Albrecht said it is modeled after the success of the Deseret Land and Livestock operation, which over 30 years has vastly improved habitat for wildlife.

Albrecht said cooperative rangeland restoration projects are being used widely throughout Utah to institute habitat and waterway improvements that benefit wildlife in areas like Wayne and Juab counties.

An extra $50,000 will help finish the mechanical treatment of invasive phragmites along the northern area of the Utah Lake, which has up to 8,000 acres impacted by the noxious weed.

A $500,000 appropriation last year for wild horse and burro management helped the state work with the Bureau of Land Management to work on seven projects covering 18,000 acres to boost rangeland health.

Another appropriation in the same amount would enable the state to work with the BLM on an accelerated removal schedule of wild horses and burros above targeted management levels, said Rep. Keven Stratton, R-Orem.

A $1 million funding request, if approved, would establish the Jordan River Recreation Area for improvements like boat ramps or vegetation management, along with extra police patrols along its 52-mile corridor to boost recreation safety.

Rep. Tim Hawkes, R-Centerville, is hoping to tap into $100,000 from a restricted account to pay for a river analyst as the state struggles to reach a solution in a controversial stream access dispute.

"This is a really big issue," Hawkes said, "rife with conflict."

The Utah Supreme Court deemed a portion of the Weber River near Oakley is a "navigable" waterway that grants the recreating public certain access rights, even if the river crosses private property. The state, Hawkes emphasized, needs to continue to work with the public and landowners to sort out the ramifications of the judicial ruling.

The natural resources legislative committee, which is poised to take three separate votes on requests for one-time money, ongoing funds and user fees, is also staring at more than $3 million in requests related to Utah's air quality challenges.

Rep. Mike Noel, R-Kanab, has a one-time request of $2 million for a legal challenge to California's efforts to block export of Utah's coal and another $1.5 million is under consideration for Utah's continued effort to manage sage grouse, rather than the federal government.

Lawmakers' requests for one-time money for the coming fiscal year of 2019 come to nearly $20 million, while $6.5 million is on the table for ongoing expenditures.CLAY COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI) - Officials have released the cause of the fatal Meridian Towers fire that happened on Feb. 5 in Brazil.

News 10 Spoke with Brazil Fire Chief Jake Bennett. He says the cause of the fire was the apartment occupant smoking while using an oxygen machine.

The fire at Meridian Towers killed one and injuried two. Dozens of residents were unable to get back into their apartments until Sunday afternoon.

The Clay County Coroner identified the victim was Elizabeth Thorpe.

Bennett says at this point, one of the injured residents is still receiving medical care in Indianapolis. He says the other injured resident has been released from the hospital.BRAZIL, Ind. (WTHI)- Tuesdays fire at the Meridian Towers killed one and injured two others. It also left more than 60 people without a home.

Residents still remember the events that unfolded last week. While some were not home, others remember escaping the building. Like Sharon Neese who was in the building with her daughter.





"My daughter and I were in our apartment when I heard the alarm. I went out in the hallway and I heard it say stay calm, stay where you're at. Came back in and said Christy, we need to go downstairs," said Neese.

After four full days of clean up and repairs, the towers are back open. Dozens who call this place home returned with family and pets. Even though the memories of the tragedy still remain many are happy to see the hard work to restore the building.

"Just grateful to be back home and that we have a home to come to. They did a wonderful job. There's no smoke smell, but theres no damage in my apartment," said Neese.

Neighboring apartments and the American Red Cross helped house those who were in need of shelter. Some of the tenants also qualified for casework for those who lost more from the fire.

George Shepard helped out with those others needing extra help as well as help run a temporary shelter. Its something that he and the Red Cross is happy to help with.

"Well somebody has to do it and its one of those things where we have the opportunity, the training and the will to go out in weather like this and help clients when they have a problem," said Shepard.

Though their lives at meridian towers may never be the same, thanks to the love and support from their community residents feel no matter the disaster they'll never be alone.

"Just trust in your fellow man because there will be somebody there for you. There will be," said Neese.

The cause of Tuesdays fire is still under investigation. News 10 will keep you posted with any updates as they develop.TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Several people came together to remember Alice "Anita" Oswald over the weekend.

Family, friends and people from local pet rescues attended a memorial service on Saturday.

That's according to Jerri Laubert. Laubert is the Vice-President of Harmony Haven's Board of Directors.

Harmony Haven is an animal rescue founded by Oswald.

Oswald disappeared in November. In January, police found Oswald's vehicle and body in a Vigo County pond.

Police are still investigating her death.

Laubert also gave News 10 an update on Jedi, the last dog remaining at Harmony Haven. She says Jedi will go to a rescue after receiving medical care.CBS NEWS - A second-grade teacher from Texas has died from complications of the flu. Thirty-eight-year-old Heather Holland fell ill with the flu about two weeks ago and was prescribed antiviral medication to treat her symptoms. But when she saw the $116 price tag, she decided it was too high a cost, CBS DFW reports.

"It's principle with her. She's a very frugal person in general, always has been," her husband Frank Holland told the Wall Street Journal.

He told the newspaper he bought the medication himself when he learned she'd refused to fill the prescription. "I made her start taking it," he said.

But Heather's condition worsened.

"Friday night, things escalated and she ended up in the ICU," Frank Holland told the Weatherford Democrat. "The doctors got the blood cultures back and they had to put her on dialysis early Saturday."

Heather Holland died on the morning of Feb. 4.

Her death comes as hospitals nationwide are seeing record numbers of patients with the flu. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says this year's flu season has been dominated by H3N2, a particularly nasty strain which is linked to more severe illnesses.

"Unfortunately, more deaths are likely to happen" over the next few weeks, CDC Acting Director Dr. Anne Schuchat said at a briefing Friday.

Antiviral drugs like Tamiflu (oseltamivir) can reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms somewhat if taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, but they are not an immediate cure.

6 things you can do right now to help prevent the flu

Holland taught second grade at Ikard Elementary School in Weatherford, Texas. Former student Mary Grace Foster, 16, explained the impact Holland had on her.

"She saw I was kind of a shy, scared kid I acted out a little bit," Foster told CBS DFW. "I would describe Mrs. Holland as someone who really tried hard with me, through everything. All my issues, all my episodes."

Foster's mother Lindsay said she was shocked by the news of Holland's death.

"You think it's just going to be someone who's elderly with a secondary issue not someone who was young and healthy and vibrant," she said.

She remembers Holland as someone who inspired many students over the years.

"I am certain it wasn't just my child. She was 'that' kind of teacher. She just had a heart for teaching and a heart for students. She truly cared about the kids she came in contact with education was her calling," said Lindsay Foster.

A school official said that custodians have been deep-cleaning the district's schools since December in order to protect students and staff members from this particularly nasty flu season.

The school district used Holland's death as a chance to remind everyone about taking steps to avoid the flu, including:

Cover your mouth and nose with your inner elbow or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

- Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth.

- Wash your hands often, with soap and water.

- Don't share cups, water bottles or eating utensils.

 2018 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved.TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - The Terre Haute Police Department is still working to figure out who killed Alice Anita Oswald.

News 10 checked in with Public Information Officer, Ryan Adamson, for an update. He told us detectives are tracking down every lead in the case.

Divers found Oswald's body in her car in a Vigo County lake in January. Adamson urges people with any information to call police.

He says if it was your family, you'd want someone to come forward.

If you think you have a lead, if you think you know something, please let us know. Let us decide if it's relevant or not because the smallest things can snowball into something a lot bigger, Adamson said.

Adamson said officers won't quit until justice is served. Call the Terre Haute Police Department with any tips at (812) 238 1661.As if the broken, angry, dysfunctional Middle East needed another conflict, along came an unprecedented escalation between Israel, Iran and Syria to make the region even more volatile and dangerous.

In the predawn hours of Saturday, an Iranian drone penetrated Israeli airspace and was shot down. Israel retaliated by attacking Iranian facilities in Syria, from where the drone had launched, which prompted an Israeli F-16 fighter jet to come under Syrian fire and crash. This is believed to be the first time in decades that an Israeli jet has been taken down in such a manner.

Much about these incidents, particularly why Iran sent a drone into Israeli airspace, isn't yet certain. And where these events will lead is equally hard to predict. But here are the key takeaways to consider.

Escalation was inevitable

A perfect storm of factors with the potential to prompt an attack like Saturday's have been brewing for some time. Capitalizing on Iran's support of the regime of Syria's Bashar al-Assad, Teheran has moved to expand its influence in Syria as a hedge against US and Saudi designs. And with Iran's help, Hezbollah has probed areas close to the Syrian Golan Heights to possibly create another front against the Israelis.

They planned to establish weapons factories and land routes that might facilitate supply to Hezbollah. Motivated partly by the ideological struggle against Israel and by a practical need to build up a stronger capability in the event of an Iranian-Israeli conflict, Iran apparently plans to expand the Israeli-Lebanese front to include Syria.

For its part, Israel has drawn clear red lines that it warned Iran not to cross and has long complained about Iran's ambitions in Syria. These include Iran's desire to create a land bridge connecting Iran and Lebanon through Iraq and Syria, deploy 10,000 Shia militia in southern Syria, create maritime and air bases and weapons factories, and even to create a presence adjacent to the Golan Heights.

On this last goal, steps have already been taken. In 2015, Israel killed an Iranian general and senior Hezbollah operatives near the Golan Heights.

Over the last several years, Israel has conducted at least a hundred attacks in Syria, aimed at preventing weapons shipments to Hezbollah, blowing up weapons depots and eliminating regime or jihadi activity too close to its borders. But Saturday's violation of Israeli airspace and sovereignty by an Iranian drone was considered a provocation that needed a clear answer on the tactical level and a strategic response.

Post ISIS, the conflict is changing

The other reality, which could result in external powers clashing in Syria, is the shifting focus of the conflict. As US-led coalition forces have whittled away ISIS control of its "Caliphate," the struggle for influence, oil and territory has intensified. Turkey is fighting Syrian Kurds while the United States supports the Kurds in their effort to hold territory liberated from ISIS. Meanwhile, Russia and Iran are supporting Assad's efforts to take territory back from jihadis in the Idlib province. All this further complicates Washington's relations with Turkey.

But as the commitment of these foreign external powers to the Syrian arena has grown, so have the costs. Within the past two weeks, a Syrian jihadi group shot down a Russian fighter jet, a Kurdish militia downed a Turkish helicopter, and Syrian air defenses disabled an Israeli F-16.

And as Iran and the Russians have helped the Assad regime take back territory, Assad's confidence and his willingness to challenge Israel have also grown. The downing of the Israeli fighter will hand Assad a propaganda victory and buck him up more.

This round may be contained

Despite the serious escalation, a sustained and massive confrontation is not necessarily around the corner. None of the major players is looking for a regional war.

Russia has no desire to undermine three years of investment in saving the Assad regime, only to see Israel become involved militarily in Syria, which could weaken the Syrian regime and strengthen the United States' hand against Iran. Iran isn't looking for war with Israel either, as it could jeopardize its own gains in Syria.

And Israel has no interest in getting bogged down in Syria or triggering a conflict with Hezbollah, Iran's loyal ally. A war with Hezbollah would rain thousands of rockets and missiles down on Israel's cities, produce heavy civilian casualties, and force Israel to wage a costly war against Lebanon.

More than likely, this coincidence of interests in avoiding war will succeed in deferring a major escalation to some later date. Could this dangerous moment produce a moderating effect forcing all sides to consider more stable arrangements?

It's doubtful given Iran's commitment to Assad and Russia's inability and unwillingness to constrain Teheran. Quite predictably, Moscow has adopted a position supporting both Syria and Iran and urged Israel to respect Syria's territorial integrity. Moreover, given the history of Israeli-Lebanese conflicts --from 1978 to 2006 -- it seems only a matter of time until the next round.

Where's Washington?

Faced with an unprecedented escalation between Israel, Iran and Syria, which contain any number of dangerous, historic and unpredictable firsts, the Trump administration seems to have adopted a hands-off, low-key approach to the current crisis. It's clearly very early in this crisis, but Washington seems content for now in issuing strong statements defending Israel's actions and condemning Iran's provocations.

It may well turn out that in a battle of wills between the Trump administration's staunchest Middle East ally and its greatest adversary, the President wants to use Israel to hammer Iran in Syria. He may have no interest in getting involved in any diplomatic effort that might force him to put brakes on Israel or push his friend Putin to restrain Iran.

As for the role of the secretary of state, it's more than a little awkward if not outright embarrassing that Rex Tillerson, who's traveling in the region, talked to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday, yet seems to have no plans to stop in Israel. He should add Israel to his itinerary, if only to receive a personal briefing on Israeli thinking and coordinate with Jerusalem.

The fact that he's not going speaks volumes about Tillerson's own marginalized role and the administration's lack of a strategy in thinking through how to pre-empt further escalation in a dangerous crisis. And rest assured the Israeli-Iranian tangle in Syria isn't going away. Sooner or later it will return with a vengeance.We are only three weeks into the invasion of Afrin in Northern Syria by Turkey and their quislings in the Free Syrian Army, a dangerous turn for the Syrian civil war, and yet it no longer features on our front pages and television news.

The mounting daily death toll of civilians, pictures of wounded women and children, hollowed out buildings with their twisted iron spines, plumes of black smoke -- fail to move people sufficiently. But compassion fatigue is not some inexplicable human condition; it is the result of being bombarded with images of devastation without proper context.

Syria, in particular, with its seven-year long civil war, a battleground for almost all the major world and regional powers with a seemingly invincible dictator, Bashar al-Assad, at the helm induces in us a very particular sense of powerlessness. Since the self-described caliphate of ISIS has been reduced to a thumbnail, Syria has further lost its fascination for us.

But the very people, the Kurds, who led the successful battle against ISIS are now under attack in Afrin. The United States, which provided air cover in that battle, has proved to be an unfaithful ally.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, by refusing to condemn Turkey's invasion, has given it carte blanche to bomb the United States' own allies because Turkey has "legitimate" concerns about its borders, as long as Recep Tayyip Erdo-an, President of Turkey, shows restraint and avoids civilian casualties. A World Health Organization report emerging from that area indicates it is in fact civilians who have fallen victim to Turkey's random bombing. So much for Turkey heeding the advice of its powerful NATO ally!

The same report goes on to say that the Syrian government troops have blocked all but one exit out of Afrin. The Turkish invasion from the north of Afrin is creating refugees while the Syrian government is kettling them from the south.

Instead of Syria feeling threatened by Turkey's invasion, Assad appears to be letting Turkey do the dirty work on his behalf, cooperating implicitly with Turkey by creating a pincer movement to choke off their common enemy, the Kurds. This is a strategy that Assad has used with Syrian rebels across Syria, sealing them in to an area, then bombarding and starving them into submission.

Why we should care

So why should we care about this latest development in the Syrian war? Because Afrin, along with the cantons of Euphrates and Jazira, is experimenting with a form of bottom-up, direct democracy that is arguably more progressive than any other system in the West. When I visited Rojava -- or the Democratic Federation of Northern Syria, as these cantons are collectively known -- in March 2016, I witnessed a revolution unlike any other; women's equality, with the end of patriarchy their avowed goal, is driving this revolution.

Is your hair standing on end yet? Every institution -- local councils, schools, hospitals -- is run on a co-presidency rule with a man and a woman sharing all posts, including the command of their defense forces.

Photos of the women of the YPJ in military fatigues and colorful scarves in the front line against ISIS have been the outside world's only peek into this society. Parallel to an administration with equal quotas for men and women, there are women-only structures that have the power of veto on all policies relating to women.

After the fall of Raqqa, there were amusing reports from the refugee camps being run by the multiethnic, Kurdish-led, Syrian Democratic Forces, the SDF, that Arab men, recently escaped from ISIS, were complaining about SDF insistence on gender equality. One said, "They give a lot of rights to women. If I raise my voice at a woman, they might put me in jail."

The DFNS is totally wedded to the idea of racial inclusivity. Dr. Alan Semo, UK representative of the Democratic Union Party, the main political party in DFNS, described the quota system in operation. The Kurdish people have voluntarily surrendered their majority status in their Parliament and taken a 10% stake alongside Arabs and Syriacs (Christians), even though there is a long history of discrimination by the Arabs against the Kurds.

A refreshing counter to sectarian strife

In a country torn apart by sectarian struggle, this secular society provides a refreshing countercurrent, a sanctuary to 2 million refugees from the rest of Syria and Iraq. Yet instead of seeking to replicate this model not just across Syria but across the Middle East and, I would argue, across the whole world, the powers that be are seeking to extinguish this flame.

Inspired by the ideas of Abdullah -calan, leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party, imprisoned by Turkey since 1999, the Syrian Kurds are no longer demanding a nation-state of their own because they have developed a critique of the anti-democratic, militaristic and patriarchal nature of nation-states.

They are content to remain within the borders of Syria as an autonomous self-governing confederation. But we are so used to the idea of ownership, borders and territorial aggrandizement that we can understand the Kurdish enterprise only as a land grab. This is exactly how they are viewed by Syria and Turkey, which has been conducting a little known war against its own Kurdish population, worried that they will demand independence.

DFNS assertions are not helped by initiatives next door in Iraqi Kurdistan, where a referendum for independence was won in September 2017 and then crushed by the central government. The political ideology of the Syrian and Turkish Kurds is a million miles away from that of the Iraqi Kurds, a fact that is sometimes eclipsed by the Kurds themselves in an attempt to present a united front to the world as a people dispossessed.

For Turkey, -calan is a terrorist for representing the interests of the Kurdish people against forced assimilation and cultural obliteration by the state. While it may be a truism that one person's terrorist is another's freedom fighter, it's barely believable that the West is prepared to support Erdo-an's concept of "terrorist" when Erdo-an has imposed a fierce crackdown and imprisoned dissenters, in a purge that some claim has affected hundreds of thousands.

The Rojava (DFNS) revolution is midwife to the birth of another world. Erdo-an has declared that, "Our mission is to strangle it before it is even born."

It has been born. It could spawn a more humane, rational, ethical and equal world. We should do everything in our power to keep the revolution alive. We could start by stopping the sale of arms to Turkey and demanding that they be booted out of NATO.BRANDON, Miss. (AP)  A man convicted in Kansas of attempted murder and other charges during a series of crimes in several states has been brought back to Mississippi to face murder charges.

Rankin County District Attorney Michael Guest said Monday that authorities went to Kansas last week and brought Alex Deaton back to Mississippi on Friday. Guest said he hopes to try Deaton late this summer on charges of murder, drive-by shooting and motor vehicle theft.

For now, Deaton is being held without bail in the Rankin County jail. Guest said he didn't know if Deaton has a lawyer for the Mississippi charges.

Authorities believe a series of violent crimes that stretched for more than 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) began in the suburbs of Mississippi's capital city on Feb. 22, 2017. Officials believe Deaton strangled his girlfriend, 30-year-old Heather Robinson, and stole her SUV.

The next day, Deaton shot Brenda Pinter to death as she was cleaning a rural church near Philadelphia, authorities said.

Deaton also faces a first-degree murder charge in Neshoba County, and he was indicted in Rankin County for shooting and wounding a jogger near Robinson's apartment after Pinter's death.

Deaton resurfaced Feb. 28 near Albuquerque, New Mexico. He faces an 11-count indictment in Sandoval County there for trying to kidnap two teenage hikers. Authorities say he shot one of them and stole a car.

Before dawn the next morning, Deaton robbed and stole a car from a convenience store clerk in Pratt, Kansas. He pleaded guilty in July to attempted first-degree murder and aggravated robbery there, and was sentenced in October to nearly 13 years in prison.

Deaton faces a possible life sentence on the murder charge, plus up to another 30 years on the drive-by-shooting if convicted in Mississippi. Guest said his goal is to make sure Deaton never leaves prison.

Robinson's mother and other family members sat in the audience as Guest spoke to reporters Monday, with the mother cradling Robinson's red-covered Bible, which Guest said he gave back to the family. Relatives declined to speak to reporters.MIAMI (AP) - Church officials say a gay schoolteacher has been fired by a Miami Catholic school after marrying her same-sex partner in an apparent violation of church rules.

Archdiocese of Miami officials confirmed to the Miami Herald that first-grade teacher Jocelyn Morffi lost her job at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School on Thursday, the day after she returned from her Florida Keys wedding.

Several parents say they were surprised and upset at Morffi's firing. But an archdiocese spokeswoman says Morffi broke her contract under church rules of conduct.

Same-sex marriage was legalized in Florida by a 2015 judicial ruling. Florida does not have a statewide law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. A Miami-Dade County ordinance that protects LGBT residents from discrimination exempts religious institutions from certain provisions.BAKER COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - Two Florida parents have been arrested after deputies say their 1-year-old child ingested an unknown amount of morphine pills.

The Baker County Sheriff's Office says that they responded to a home where a 1-year-old child had reportedly injected morphine pills.

They say that the mother, Chrystal Baker, had left the child with the father, Seth Baker, to go partying with Jeremy Baker, Seth's brother and Chrystal's current boyfriend.

When Chrystal returned to the home, deputies say she found Seth and the child under the influence of drugs. Seth told her that he believed the child had eaten some morphine pills.

That's when authorities were called. Deputies say Seth tried to leave the home to avoid being arrested, but was later found hiding in a camper in the back yard.

Further investigation revealed that Seth, Chrystal and Jeremy were all under the influence of drugs. They say Jeremy admitted that all three live in the same home and all heavy drug users.

After searching the home, deputies found six morphine pills, 5.8 grams of Chrystal meth, and smoking pipes that were easily accessible to the child.

The child was transported to Baker Community Hospital ER for medical along with the child's mother Chrystal.

Deputies later found out that Chrystal was wanted in Baker County for theft. However, when they went to the hospital to arrest Chrystal, she ran away from the hospital, leaving her child.

Chrystal was later found at the Red Roof Inn in Macclenny, Fla. and tried once again to run away. Deputies say they had to chase her down in the lobby of the hotel where she was arrested.

Deputies say the child is being cared for and is doing fine.TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL)- According to OneBlood, one in three Americans will need a blood transfusion at some point in their life and every two seconds someone is in need of a blood transfusion in America.

That's why two organizations, OneBlood and Proctor Subaru, held a blood drive Saturday.

The blood drive encouraged the community to come together to save lives.

"They have no idea that when they are giving blood it's gonna impact somebody within the next few days and in many cases it's saving somebody's life," said Pat Michaels from OneBlood.

OneBlood officials say the receive a high number of donations during major disasters like Hurricane Irma. However, those numbers drop afterward.

During the event, the organization brought three big red buses, food and free items to remind people that there is still a need to donate blood.

"It's great to donate blood after a disaster," said Michaels. "That's always good, but you have to remember that it's the people that give before the disasters happen who are making a difference."

Those who donated were entered into a raffle to win prizes. OneBlood and Proctor Subaru say it's their way of showing thanks to many people that gave a little bit today to save many tomorrow.

For more information on how to donate with OneBlood, click here.TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Police are searching for missing 16-year-old Tamia Pearson.

The Tallahassee Police Department is seeking information on the location of Tamia Pearson.

Pearson was seen February 8, 2018 near 3900 block of Chinook St.

She is described as being around 5-foot-3 tall, weighing about 110 - 115 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. Pearson has black braided hair down the back.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Tallahassee Police Department at (850) 891-4200.Source: Xinhua| 2017-11-17 23:53:31|Editor: Lifang

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Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) holds a ceremony to welcome Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela before their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 17, 2017. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

BEIJING, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela on Friday, saying bilateral relations have "turned over a new leaf" with the establishment of diplomatic relations.

Varela is making his first state visit to China after the Central American nation established diplomatic relations with China in June.

"Chinese and Panamanians have had friendly exchanges for over 160 years. Forging diplomatic relations on the basis of the one-China principle meets the aspiration of generations of people in our two countries," Xi said.

"China-Panama relations have turned over a new leaf," Xi said, adding that China will work with Panama to jointly draw a blueprint for the development of bilateral relations.

Varela said he was proud to make the historic visit to China in the capacity of president, fulfilling his long-cherished wish. He inaugurated the Panamanian embassy in Beijing on Thursday and visited the Great Wall on Friday.

"I have experienced your national spirit and resilience represented by the Great Wall. I solemnly reaffirm Panama's adherence to the one-China principle and support for the peaceful reunification of China," Varela said.

"As the Chinese saying goes, a man who has never been to the Great Wall is not a true man. Your political decision to establish diplomatic ties with China and visit China is a feat of a hero," Xi told Varela. "Your contribution will be remembered in the history."

Xi said establishing diplomatic relations will benefit the generations to come and the two countries shoulder the mission to set the direction for future relationship.

Hailing the rapidly progressing bilateral cooperation in the past five months, Xi said China hopes to push forward cooperation so that bilateral relations enter a fast track.

China and Panama should treat each other on an equal footing and foster deep mutual trust. China is sincere in developing relations with Panama, featuring win-win cooperation, common development, openness and inclusiveness, according to Xi.

"Panamanian friends will see China's concrete actions," Xi said, calling for more exchanges in legislative institutions, political parties and local governments.

China regards Latin America as an indispensable partner for the Belt and Road Initiative, and both sides should synergize development strategies to complement each other, Xi said.

He said he expected early harvests in maritime, infrastructure, trade, investment and finance cooperation and active exchanges in education and tourism.

Xi said China's commitment to building a community of shared future for mankind reflects the world's aspiration for peace, development and prosperity.

China supports Panama to play an active role in China-Latin America cooperation and will work with the country to contribute to world peace and development, Xi said.

Varela said that Panama-China friendship dates back a long time, and his people fully approve the decision of establishing diplomatic ties with China, which is in the interests of both peoples, and will promote Panama's development and improve its people's livelihood.

The past five months have laid a solid foundation for the long-term growth of the bilateral relationship. The facts proved again the establishment of diplomatic relations is a correct decision, said Varela.

He said that Panama will work with China to strengthen high-level contact and people-to-people exchanges, promote cooperation in trade, investment, finance, poverty reduction and infrastructure, and cement coordination within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations.

Varela said Panama is ready to be an important friend of China in Latin America and that Panama supports the Belt and Road Initiative.

He said Panama will take the advantage of its unique geographical position to cooperate more with China in ports, maritime affairs, shipping, railways and logistics to jointly implement the Belt and Road Initiative and improve world connectivity.

Varela extended congratulations on Xi's re-election as general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee in late October. He said he agrees with the people-centered policies set at the 19th CPC National Congress and admires China's great achievement in social and economic development as well as poverty reduction.

The 19th CPC National Congress has set China's development goals and roadmaps up to 2050, Xi said, adding that China enjoys a bright future and history will further prove the decision to establish diplomatic relations between the two countries is completely correct.

Varela said that the 19th CPC National Congress, depicting a blueprint for China's future development, means a lot to China and the world. "I believe China and the CPC will make even greater contribution to world peace and human progress," he said.

After the meeting, Xi and Varela witnessed the signing of bilateral cooperation agreements in the Belt and Road Initiative, trade, investment, maritime transportation, railway, human resources, industrial parks, agriculture, quality inspection, civil aviation and tourism.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang also met with Varela earlier on Friday. Li said the two heads of state had mapped out the blueprint for the development of China-Panama relations.

China appreciates Panama's adherence to the one-China policy, and is ready to strengthen political trust with the country based on mutual respect, equality and respect for each other's core interests, Li said.

China hopes to combine its advantage as a major trading country of goods with Panama's geographical advantage, to carry out cooperation in logistics network, Li said.

Varela said he believes forging diplomatic ties with China will help Panama's economic growth as well as win-win cooperation with China.

Panama expects to enhance cooperation with China in inter-connectivity and building of logistics, he said.

Panama will offer convenience to Chinese investment, and build itself into a center for Chinese companies' cooperation with Latin America, Varela added.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 02:01:29|Editor: yan

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AMMAN, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- King Abdullah II of Jordan will hold a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday in Moscow during an official visit to Russia, the state-run Petra news agency reported.

Talks between the two leaders will focus on bilateral ties and latest regional and international developments, especially those related to Syria and the peace process as well as efforts to combat terrorism.

Meanwhile, King Abdullah sent a cable of condolences to Putin on Sunday in which he voiced condolences over the victims of a passenger plane crash in Russia.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 03:16:38|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson (L) and Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry give a press conference in Cairo, Egypt on Feb. 12, 2018. Tillerson arrived in Cairo on Sunday on the first leg of his Middle East tour that also incudes Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon and Kuwait, Egypt's official MENA news agency reported. (Xinhua/Khaled ELFIQI)

CAIRO, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson arrived in Cairo on Sunday on the first leg of his Middle East tour that also incudes Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon and Kuwait, Egypt's official MENA news agency reported.

Tillerson is scheduled to held talks with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry on Monday over enhancing U.S-Egyptian partnership and coordinating cooperation over in major Mideast issues.

The top U.S. diplomat will also meet on Monday with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi who is expected to easily win a second presidential term in the 2018 elections, according to U.S. reports.

Sisi faces no strong challengers in the 2018 presidential race scheduled for late March.

It is the second visit of a senior U.S. official to the Middle East region, after U.S. Vice President Mike Pence's Mideast tour in January, since U.S. President Donald Trump recognized last December the debatable holy city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel amid regional and international outcry.

Trump also voiced intention to move the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

The Palestinian-Israeli conflict has existed since the Western-backed creation of Israel and the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories in 1948.

The Palestinians seek to establish an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital in the light of the UN-proposed two-state solution based on the pre-1967 borders.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 03:41:41|Editor: Chengcheng

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STOCKHOLM, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) --- Sweden has for decades served as a recruitment base for extremists despite its relative lull in terms of terror attacks compared with other European countries, a defence expert said to Swedish Television on Sunday.

"Sweden has stood out in this respect," said Peder Hyllengren, a researcher at the Swedish Defence University, while talking about the relatively strong international influence of the country's violent jihadist network.

He made the remarks two days before the start of a trial on Rakhmat Akilov, a Uzbek national accused of terrorism after carrying out a truck attack in Sweden's capital, Stockholm last April.

Hyllengren named several Swedish nationals who were involved into terror attacks outside Sweden. Mohamed Belkaid, who held a Swedish residence permit and lived in the northern Stockholm suburb of Marsta for several years, is suspected of having taken part in the terror attack in Paris in 2015. He was killed during a police raid in Brussels. Also, Osama Krayem from Malmo, Sweden's third largest city in the south, is suspected of involvement in the 2015 Paris terror attack and in the 2016 attack on Brussels.

In addition to the attackers in Europe, the expert also mentioned the large number of Swedes who have travelled to Syria and Iraq in the past few years to join IS and other terrorist networks.

"An estimated 300 people have travelled from Sweden and that is the second largest number in the EU, in relation to the size of our population," said Hyllengren.

Moreover, many Swedes or people with strong links to Sweden have also in the past decade been convicted of terrorist crimes in Morocco, the United States, Denmark, Syria, Bosnia and Greece, according to Hyllengren.

The expert believes that hundreds of Swedes have established contact with violent jihadists from other countries or have joined different terrorist cells that have carried out attacks around Europe, with Belkaid and Krayem the most striking examples.

According to Hyllengren, Sweden has for at least a couple of decades been a country from which people are recruited to terrorist training camps and to fight in conflict zones around the world.

Hyllengren gave several reasons to explain why Sweden has become a "hot spot" for jihadists.

First, a number of key individuals have been based in Sweden. Second, Swedish anti-terror legislation has lagged behind and that has enabled jihadist networks to operate relatively undisturbed in Sweden. Third, in Sweden jihadism has been a controversial subject laden with taboos and that has prevented open debate about the issue as well as political action, and it has hampered the work of Sweden's Secret Service.

"One risked being called out as a racist in a way that was not the case in other European countries. There, this issue was as uncontroversial as the importance of fighting Nazism and right-wing extremism. But in Sweden it took a long time before one could discuss jihadism in the same way as we for a long time have discussed Nazism," said Hyllengren.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 08:43:25|Editor: Chengcheng

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Revelers attend the 90th carnival parade in Aalst, some 30 kilometers northwest from Brussels, capital of Belgium, on Feb. 11, 2018. Thousands of revelers participated in the annual Aalst Carnival on Sunday, which was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010. (Xinhua/Ye Pingfan)LONDON, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Three Britons have died in a helicopter crash in the Grand Canyon in the United States, the British Foreign Office confirmed on Sunday night.

The three British people were killed after a tourist helicopter crashed in the Grand Canyon in the U.S. state of Arizona.

The British Foreign Office said it was providing support to their families and those of three more Britons who were injured.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on Feb. 10, and we are in close contact with the U.S. emergency services."

The aircraft came down at about 17:20 local time (00:20 GMT) on Saturday. It is not clear what caused the crash.

The helicopter was operated by tour company Papillon Airways, reports said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 08:27:26|Editor: Chengcheng

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MEXICO CITY, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Mexican authorities have rescued 229 migrants and arrested six suspected people smugglers in the northern state of Tamaulipas, authorities announced on Sunday.

The Tamaulipas coordination group, made up of the army and federal and state security forces, said in a statement that the migrants were found in six safehouses, waiting to cross into the U.S.

Operations carried out on Friday and Saturday took place after an anonymous tip-off, leading to the arrest of the six suspects.

According to statements from the Central American migrants, they had paid 4,000 U.S. dollars each to be taken by truck to Matamoros and were then made to wait in the safehouses.

Of those rescued, 128 were from Guatemala, 86 from Honduras, 11 from El Salvador, 3 from Nicaragua and 1 from Mexico. They included 109 children and 120 adults, including 41 women.

The police have turned the migrants over to Mexican authorities to be processed.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 10:03:06|Editor: Chengcheng

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People join the Pillow Fight 2018 "Feathers of Fury" in San Jose, California, the United States, Feb. 11, 2018. Participants took part in the annual Pillow Fight 2018 "Feathers of Fury" event in San Jose on Sunday before the upcoming Valentine's Day. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling)SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Three adults were injured, including one in critical condition, after they were struck by wind-driven debris in San Francisco on the U.S. west coast Sunday, the city's fire department tweeted.

The San Francisco Fire Department said the two people have been hospitalized after they sustained injuries at a construction site on San Jose avenue, about 5 km from downtown San Francisco.

"Both victims are adults, one of whom has been upgraded to life threatening injuries," the fire department tweeted.

One of the victims was a construction worker and the two others were pedestrians.

Strong wind gusts in this city also knocked down a chain link fence surrounding the area.

A twitter user posted a picture from Google street view showing a building under construction, suggesting that the building's bad design plus high winds would easily hurt people badly.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 10:27:53|Editor: Chengcheng

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PYONGYANG, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The high-level delegation of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) came home Sunday night after visiting South Korea and attending the opening ceremony of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said the delegation, led by Kim Yong Nam, president of the Presidium of the DPRK Supreme People's Assembly, flew 45 minutes from Inchon to land in Pyongyang.

The delegation also included Kim Yo Jong, the younger sister of DPRK top leader Kim Jong Un and also the first vice director of the Central Committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea.

The delegation was warmly received here by numerous senior officials and a guard of honor of the Korean People's Army at the airport upon arrival, according to the KCNA.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in met with the delegation Saturday at the presidential Blue House in Seoul. The two sides agreed to further improve inter-Korean relations and seek to realize peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Together with the DPRK delegation, Moon watched a match by the joint women's ice jockey team with Switzerland in PyeongChang on Saturday and the performance of a DPRK art troupe in Seoul on Sunday.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 11:18:01|Editor: Zhou Xin

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XI'AN, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A court in northwest China's Shaanxi Province has sentenced a man to death for the murder of five members of a family, including two children.

Liu Chenpeng broke into a house in Yanta District in the provincial capital of Xi'an, tied up householder Wang and his two relatives with tape, and left with cash and bank cards on June 24, 2016, said a statement issued by the intermediate people's court of Xi'an City.

After withdrawing 18,000 yuan (2,860 U.S. dollars) from an ATM, Liu returned to the house and killed the three plus Wang's baby daughter and son, according to the statement.

He was found to have used the cards several times to withdraw a total of 32,500 yuan.

Police arrested Liu on July 2, 2016, and the court ruled the case on Sunday.

Liu withdrew his previous confession in court.MOSCOW, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A Russian airliner carrying 71 people crashed on Sunday shortly after taking off from the country's second-busiest airport in Moscow, killing all the people on board.

The Antonov-148 of Saratov Airlines with 65 passengers and a crew of six was en route from Domodedovo Airport in Moscow to Orsk of the Orenburg Region in western Russia.

Radio contact with the seven-year-old Russia-made plane was lost at 14:21 Moscow time (1121 GMT), several minutes after takeoff.

"Tentatively, the plane has crashed near the village of Argunovo. The crew and passengers had no chance to survive," a source in emergency services told the Interfax news agency.

At the scene near the village of Argunovo, about 80 km away from Moscow, a Xinhua reporter saw the plane had crashed into a forest there, and vehicles and personnel from the emergency department, police and aviation and space search and relief forces were busy with search.

A female witness told Xinhua that she first heard several dull thuds when the crash occurred, then she ran to the vicinity of the forest. She saw parts of the plane's wreckage were scattered on the ground and some small parts floating in the air before disappearing in the snow.

Her husband told Xinhua that they saw neither naked flames nor blood, just smelled a burning smell when they arrived at the scene.

The wreckage was scattered within around 150 square meters, he said, adding that police and helicopters arrived later and sealed the scene, and large snow blowers worked in three teams to open routes toward the center of the scene.

It was reported that one of the two black boxes, the flight data recorders, has been found intact, but the cockpit voice recorder is still missing.

Witnesses in the village of Argunovo told news media that they saw a burning plane falling from the sky, and the Interfax report said fragments of two dead bodies have been found.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered "his profound condolences to those who lost their relatives in the crash" and issued an order to set up a government commission to probe the crash, Putin's press secretary Dmitry Peskov said.

The Russian Investigative Committee has opened an investigation into the crash and Russian Transport Minister Maksim Sokolov has flown to the scene.

The Russian Transport Ministry told Interfax that several reasons are being considered for the crash, including weather conditions and human factors.

The Antonov-148 is a regional high-wing jet with a maximum range of about 2100-4400 km and passenger capacity of 68-85. The plane was designed and built by Ukraine's Antonov company until 2017 and also built by Russia since then.LOS ANGELES, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. pastor wanted by police for sexually assaulting a preteen girl from China in the city of Covina, 30 km east of Los Angeles, turned himself in to the authorities on Sunday.

Douglas Rivera, 40, surrendered to the Covina Police Department in the morning with his attorney and was later released on a 100,000-dollar bail.

When he walked out of the Covina jail, he refused to answer any question. He is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday.

He was booked at the Covina jail as detectives waited to interview him, a police spokesman later said, adding that the suspect refused the request for interviews based on advice of his attorney.

According to a press release and surveillance footage from the Covina Police Department, Rivera lurked outside a hotel room where two preteen girls visiting from China lived and assaulted one of them before fleeing the scene.

However, in a video posted on Instagram that appeared to have been recorded inside a vehicle, Rivera tried to vindicate himself, saying the accusations against him were a misunderstanding.

This case has raised attention from local residents and Consulate General of China in Los Angeles.

"We contacted the local police department as soon as we received the news. We have got some information about the case and urged police to arrest the criminal as soon as possible," an official of the consulate told Xinhua Saturday night.LOS ANGELES, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Three people were killed after a tour helicopter carrying seven people crashed in the Grand Canyon in the U.S. state of Arizona on Saturday.

The other four people were rescued from the deadly helicopter crash and were being treated at a Las Vegas hospital early Sunday morning.

British Foreign Office confirmed on Sunday night those killed were three Britons and it was providing support to their families and those of three more Britons who were injured.

"We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on Feb. 10, and we are in close contact with the U.S. emergency services," a Foreign Office spokesperson said.

The helicopter came down at about 17:20 local time (0020 GMT) on Saturday by the Grand Canyon's West Rim. Witnesses said at the crash site that black smokes and flames were spewing and explosions could be heard.

Six passengers and a pilot were on board the aircraft which was operated by tour company Papillon Airways. It is not clear what caused the crash.

The Papillon Airways is based in the western U.S. state of Nevada. According to the company's website, it flies about 600,000 passengers a year in its provided tours.

Its website reads: "at Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, safety is our top priority. Papillon Airways, Inc. and its subsidiaries are fully certified by the Tour Operators Program of Safety."

The Federal Aviation Administration will be investigating the crash of the Eurocopter EC 130, spokesperson Allen Kenitzer said.

In 2001, a Grand Canyon tour helicopter operated by Papillon crashed and killed six people. A report issued on the investigation of the crash said it is the pilot's operation of descending too fast and too close to the scenic cliffs that led to the tragedy.CANBERRA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The governments of Australia and Peru signed off on the Peru-Australia Free Trade Agreement (PAFTA) Monday.

Steven Ciobo, Australia's Trade Minister, finalized the deal, saying it would "create new Australian jobs and drive economic growth."

The ratification of PAFTA represents the end of months of work on both sides after negotiations opened in May 2017. The nine-month turnaround from negotiations opening to the deal being closed on makes it the fastest FTA Australia has ever concluded.

Under the deal, tariffs on 99 percent of Australian goods exported to Peru will be eliminated within five years.

Australia will become one of Peru's biggest suppliers of sugar, exporting 90,000 tonnes of the product to Peru within 18 years; the equivalent of 30 percent of Peru's total sugar imports.

"This elimination of tariffs will help Australian farmers, who have effectively been shut out of the market until now, grow their exports. The more they export, the more Australian jobs they will create," Ciobo said on Monday.

"As one of our most ambitious trade agreements for services, PAFTA will create new opportunities for Australian education providers. Peru will recognize Australian degrees, helping Australian universities attract more Peruvian students to study in Australia.

"Peru is one of the fastest growing economies in the world with an average growth rate of 5.9 percent over the last decade. This agreement gives Australian businesses the opportunity to share in the growth."

Two-way trade between Australia and Peru was worth 461 million U.S. dollars in 2016, a 51.2-percent increase on the previous year.

In addition to sugar, PAFTA means that exports of Australian beef, dairy products, pharmaceuticals, horticulture products, kangaroo meat and wheat to Peru will also significantly increase.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 11:48:09|Editor: Zhou Xin

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Anti-secession and anti-terrorism efforts should be a priority in Xinjiang to ensure enduring peace and stability, said Chen Quanguo, the Communist Party of China (CPC) chief of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Chen called for strengthening border control to safeguard security in the region, according to an interview carried by Monday's People's Daily, flagship newspaper of the CPC.

More than 100 million domestic and foreign tourists visited Xinjiang last year, indicating the region's overall situation has been sound and stable, said Chen.

Preserving Xinjiang's social stability and sustainable peace is the general target set by the party leadership for the region, he said, adding Xinjiang's work must be guided by this general target.

Ethic unity is the lifeline to all ethnic groups, and Xinjiang is making efforts to promote solidarity through education and honoring role models, he said.

Xinjiang pursues supply-side structural reform as a major task and focuses on targeted poverty reduction, said Chen.

Last year, the average annual income of urban residents in Xinjiang reached 30,775 yuan (4,900 U.S.dollars), up 7.8 percent. That of rural residents increased 8 percent to 11,045 yuan, according to Chen.CANBERRA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Australia's prime minister released the latest report card on Monday assessing the nation's attempt to eliminate disadvantages faced by the indigenous population.

The Closing the Gap report found that the government was on track to achieve three of the seven targets of the strategy, up from one in 2017.

The report revealed that infant mortality improvements and early education enrolments joined secondary school completion as the three key areas that were tracking well.

The other four targets - closing the 10-year gap in life expectancy between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians by 2031 and halving the gaps in employment, reading and numeracy and school attendance by 2018 - were all lagging.

"Three of the seven targets are on track this year, giving us the most promising result since 2011," Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull told the parliament.

"The last decade has given us a richer understanding about what works and what does not.

"The most valuable lesson has come from applying advice to do with, not to (indigenous people)."

Closing the Gap was implemented in 2008, shortly after the then-prime minister formally apologized the 'Stolen Generation' of indigenous people who had been taken away from their family.

In the eight years from 2008 to 2016, 101 billion U.S. dollars was spent by the government in an attempt to achieve the seven key targets to little avail.

Turnbull announced earlier in February that the policy would be refreshed in 2018, on Monday saying the new policy would focus more on communities than targets.

"As part of the Closing the Gap refresh, state-by-state targets will give us more granular and specific local insight," he said.

"Data that ends up in a spreadsheet at the Australian Bureau of Statistics here in Canberra is meaningless.

"Too much is written about communities, not nearly enough is written for communities.

"To give effect, data must be local and made available to communities, to local decision-makers who need to know what is happening on the ground and track changes and monitor progress. This is a big shift."

The Opposition Australian Labor Party (ALP) announced on Monday that if it is elected to government it would introduce a national compensation scheme which would make Stolen Generation survivors in the Northern Territory (NT) eligible for up to 58,000 U.S. dollars in compensation.

"We must remember the apology was so much more than a set of well-chosen words," ALP leader Bill Shorten told the parliament.

"It was not just an expression of sorrow or regret - but a declaration of intent, a promise for action.

"The continuing weight and meaning of the apology comes from what we do now, from our actions, from the change we drive, the gaps we close and the unfinished business we resolve.

"Compensation is about resolving some of the unfinished business of the apology."

Warren Snowdon, a member of the parliament, said that there was 150 surviving members of the Stolen Generation in the region.

Under the scheme, those survivors would be able to access compensation within 100 days of Shorten taking office as the prime minister.

"I know that there are people in the NT who have been enormously frustrated by the lack of action in this regard, and I am certain that there will be those that argue about the quantum, and all of those things; we welcome that discussion," Snowdon said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 12:13:16|Editor: Zhou Xin

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by Luis Rojas

MEXICO CITY, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- It is incomprehensive to track Latin America's progress in recent years without taking into account China's participation, even in difficult times, said experts.

According to a report by the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University, Latin America and the Caribbean had deepened their commercial exchanges with China after the 2008 financial crisis, despite other partners reducing their presence in the region.

China's growth has been based on building closer ties with partners, especially in South America, said Jose Luis de la Cruz, director of Mexico's Institute for Industrial Development and Economic Growth.

"The impact of China's trade relations, especially with South America, has been very positive," the expert said.

The Inter-American Development Bank calculated that total exports from the region grew around 13 percent in 2017, to reach around 985 billion U.S. dollars, in a large part thanks to the Chinese demand.

According to statistics from Chinese customs, bilateral trade between China and Latin America and the Caribbean stood at 260 billion U.S. dollars in 2017, up 18.8 percent over 2016.

Gao Feng, spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, said in a recent press conference that China is diversifying its investments in the region. Between 2004 and 2010, investments in mining and energy represented 42 percent and 18 percent of the total respectively. Between 2011 and 2017, this lowered to 20 percent and 6 percent.

Sergio Martinez, a researcher at the China-Mexico Studies Center at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, told Xinhua that "China is not forgetting its production abroad. It is tending to both markets, internal and external. Chinese presence will continue to be felt here for a long while."

However, China's participation in the region is not only felt through trade.

A recent study by RED ALC-China, an academic network of studies on China in Latin America and the Caribbean, said that in the last two decades, China enhanced its cooperation with the region "in practically all fields imaginable."

It cited the fields of defense, science and technology, as well as culture and academia, among others.

Ricardo Barrios, member of the Inter-American Dialogue think tank, said that in the recent China-CELAC Forum in Chile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that close to 4,000 Latin American and Caribbean professionals had recently visited China for training and educational purposes.

"I feel these numbers are only going to rise in the next few years," said Barrios.CHICAGO - Next Tuesday, Illinois GOP officials will join with the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition to urge Congress to pass what they call "immigration reform".

Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner will be participating, along with past and present GOP leaders, including U.S. House Speaker Denny Hastert, former governors Jim Edgar and Jim Thompson, State Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka, Illinois Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno and Illinois House Minority Leader Jim Durkin.

Depending on the outcome of the meeting, the Republican lineup may be putting itself in opposition to their party's platform, which states (section VIII):

A. We are a nation of immigrants, and the Republican Party welcomes those who respect our laws and seek freedom and opportunity in our great country. We believe it is only right to expect that our new residents come in through the front door and join us in society as fellow Americans. Further, we advocate retaining the right to adopt and enforce prudent policies relating to the numbers of immigrants America welcomes each year and their individual contributions to our nations needs. B. We call on the Federal Government to streamline the task of citizenship for legal immigrants to assimilate and complete the process of becoming Americans. C. We call for the granting of full citizenship rights to be granted to any immigrant upon the completion of service to the armed forces of the United States. D. Those who have been deported for violating our laws by their conduct as residents of the United States  should not be granted a second opportunity to take their place among us; this is a matter both of selfprotection and of upholding the public trust. E. Illinois government should assist our federal government in the mission of protecting our homeland. Illinois Republicans therefore urge reversal of sanctuary city policies, which bar our law enforcement officers from aiding Immigration & Customs Enforcement agents. The lack of adequate security at our ports and on our nations borders fosters an atmosphere conducive to smuggling of terrorists and their weapons into our country. We are duty bound to support the efforts of the US Dept. of Homeland Security and to insist on even greater efforts to protect our homeland. F. We further call on the Governor and the General Assembly to abandon incentives for illegal aliens to settle in Illinois.

The Illinois Business Immigration Coaltions website (HERE) indicates a different position on immigration. Members of the coalition include the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, the Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the left-wing Illinois Coalition for Immigrants and Refugees Rights (ICIRR).

Several of the groups in the coalition promote a "pathway to legal citizenship," which has become code for amnesty for those who have broken the law and entered the country illegally.

A protest of Tuesday's event is being planned by those concerned that immigration laws will be ignored rather than enforced.

The outcome and its effect on the election in November should be interesting. Stay tuned.Vehicle plunges into river in India, killing 8 Source: Xinhua 2018-02-12 12:18:19 NEW DELHI, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- At least eight people were killed and two others injured critically Monday after a vehicle carrying them skidded off the road and fell into a river in India's eastern state of Jharkhand, police said. Editor: Zhou XinSource: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 13:08:30|Editor: Chengcheng

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NEW DELHI, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- At least eight people were killed and two others injured early Monday after a vehicle which they were travelling in plunged into a river in India's eastern state of Jharkhand, police said.

The jeep fell into river in Dumka district, about 313 km northeast of Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand.

"Early this morning a jeep carrying 10 people fell into river here at a village, killing eight people and injuring two others," Kishore Kaushal, a senior police official in Dumka, told Xinhua.

"The vehicle bringing newspapers to the district headquarter was also carrying some local passengers when it met with the accident."

Kaushal said the injured were admitted at a local medical facility and their condition was stated to be critical.

Reports said following the accident police officials were informed, who reached the spot to carry out rescue work.

"The injured were removed to hospital and efforts are underway to retrieve bodies and vehicle from the river," Kaushal said.

Police have registered a case and ordered investigations to ascertain cause behind the accident.

Deadly road accidents are common in India often caused due to overloading, bad condition of roads and reckless driving.

According to an official report released recently, on average India witnessed over 400 deaths in road accidents every day during 2016.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 13:28:36|Editor: Chengcheng

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by Jethro Soutar

TORRES VEDRAS, Portugal, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of revellers thronged the streets of Torres Vedras, a town 50 km north of Lisbon, to celebrate Portugal's biggest carnival parade on Sunday.

This year's theme was "The Sea and Oceans," chosen by the Royal Fraternity of Torres Carnival, an organizing group of the carnival.

"It's our responsibility to preserve to the maximum the traditions that make this the most Portuguese of all Portugal's carnivals," said Antonio Miranda, chancellor of the fraternity.

Besides picking the theme, the fraternity selects the carnival king and queen. Miranda had served as the king for 10 years before passing the mantle to his son.

Once the theme is chosen, local groups are invited to submit ideas for costumes and designs for floats.

Helder Silva was part of the Gravity Balance design team whose concepts were chosen for four of the eight carnival floats.

"The strength of the Torres Vedras carnival has always been its satirical humor ... the way it pokes fun at politicians and social issues of the day," he said.

"I love seeing the floats," said Jessica, who had come up from Lisbon dressed as an angel. "Donald Trump sitting on the toilet was probably the highlight."

"The king and the queen were very good this year. Their float was brilliantly conceived," said Ana, also from Lisbon. "But the best float was surely Marcelo the Octopus!"

The float depicted Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the president of Portugal, as a cross between God of the Sea Neptune and an octopus, an allusion to his tireless involvement in numerous causes.

"The floats were very good this year," said Teresa, also from Lisbon. She was attending with an Italian friend, Guiseppe, and they were dressed as a mermaid and a sailor respectively.

"Of the parade costumes, I thought the jellyfish were particularly good," she said.

Ricardo was one of those jellyfish. He wore an umbrella for a headdress with steamers dangling down in front of his face. This was his first Torres Vedras carnival and he was experiencing it as a participant in the Alforrecas Gradilenses group - the Jellyfish from Gradil.

"I was invited to join the group and it's been great fun," he said. "We paraded all last night and have already done several circuits today, so it's tiring, but totally worth it."

Maria, from the nearby town of Alenquer, no longer dresses up. "I'm too old for that now," she said, "but I still come every year because I love the atmosphere."

Joao Alexandre was born and bred in Torres Vedras. By his reckoning, this is his 45th carnival.

"It seems to get bigger every year," he said. "But I like it best at night, that's when the real carnival gets going."

Once the floats stop parading the streets, the party moves into the town squares where DJs keep the crowds dancing until 4 o'clock in the morning.

The routine will be repeated on Monday and Tuesday. A display of fireworks brings an end to proceedings on Wednesday.

The local government has a budget of 650,000 euros (790,000 U.S. dollars) for the six-day carnival and expects 350,000 visitors to come and experience the revelry.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 13:38:38|Editor: Chengcheng

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LILONGWE, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The cholera outbreak in Malawi starting last November has killed six people, with recorded cases reaching 434 in the southern African country, authorities said Sunday.

The outbreak was first reported in the border district of Karonga, which witnessed four of the cholera-related deaths.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) expressed concern over rising cholera infections in the country, urging authorities to immediately enhance hygiene and sanitary measures.

Johannes Wedening, UNICEF's country representative in Malawi, told local radio station Zodiak on Sunday that people there need clean and portable water if the cholera outbreak is to be contained.

"I'm going out quite frequently seeing for myself, and what I have observed in Lilongwe is that although the population accesses water from the Lilongwe Water Board, there are many people accessing water from shallow wells and bole holes where the water is highly contaminated," Wedening said.

"As long as people don't change the behavior of using unsafe water, it will be very difficult to contain the cholera outbreak," he warned.

Wedening said the key issues for curbing the outbreak is safe water and good sanitation practices, such as washing hands after toilet and before eating.

Malawi's Health Minister Atupele Muluzi said Friday that the first batch of 216,000 oral vaccines from the World Health Organization is expected to arrive in the country soon and be distributed to about 108,000 people in Karonga.

He said another 450,000 doses are expected to arrive later to be distributed to other cholera-prone districts in the country. Besides Karonga, the capital city of Lilongwe is also hit hard by the disease.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 13:58:43|Editor: Lifang

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Indian paramilitary troopers escort people from a gunfight site to safer place in Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir, Feb. 12, 2018. A paramilitary troop belonging to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was wounded Monday in a fierce gunfight with militants in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said. The gunfight broke out at Karan Nagar locality of Srinagar city. (Xinhua/Javed Dar)

SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A paramilitary troop belonging to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was wounded Monday in a fierce gunfight with militants in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir, police said.

The gunfight broke out at Karan Nagar locality of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.

"A paramilitary troop of CRPF was wounded fighting militants today here," Rajesh Yadav, Srinagar based spokesman of CRPF told Xinhua. "The area has been cordoned off and gunfight is underway."

The wounded CRPF man has been shifted to hospital for treatment.

Yadav said early in the morning at around 4:30 a.m. local time paramilitary troops in the locality repulsed a suicide attack bid.

"Our alert men at the camp witnessed some suspicious movement outside and challenged the suspects by opening fire. However, the duo fled away," Yadav said. "Later on during the searches in the locality, search party came under fire triggering a gunfight."

The militants believed to be two have taken refuge inside a building behind CRPF camp in the locality.

The attack came hours after culmination of gunfight inside a military camp in Jammu.

At least nine people, five army troopers, a civilian and three militants, were killed in a two-day long stand-off inside a military camp, which was stormed Saturday morning.

A guerrilla war is going on between militants and Indian troops stationed in the region since 1989.

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.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 14:28:48|Editor: Chengcheng

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KUWAIT CITY, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Kuwait International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq kicked off Monday here.

The three-day meeting, which brings together several economic powers, as well as regional and international organizations, will discuss contributions to rebuilding Iraq after many years of war and conflict.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 14:53:52|Editor: Zhou Xin

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GUIYANG, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A South China tiger cub was born in a wild animal park in southwest China's Guizhou Province, the first cub of the endangered species successfully bred in Guizhou in four years.

The female cub, weighing 750 grams, was delivered by her mother Meng Meng at Guizhou Forest Wildlife Zoo Saturday. The cub is in good health.

In 2009, the zoo introduced four South China tigers from Shanghai and two cubs were born in 2014, one of which is the newborn's father.

Indigenous to China, South China tigers used to live across the country. However, the wild population has sharply shrunk since the 1950s due to loss of habitat, and finally disappeared. More than 100 tigers are alive and dwell in zoos or breeding bases.

Guizhou, where the last wild South China tiger disappeared, set up the country's first breeding base for the species in the 1960s, with 12 local wild tigers, according to Ran Jingcheng with the provincial wildlife administration.

From 1963 to 1970, about 60 cubs were born at the base, with more than 30 surviving. In 2005, Lin Lin, the last South China tiger at the breeding base died aged 30.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 15:00:04|Editor: Zhou Xin

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Festive lanterns are displayed during a lantern fair to greet the upcoming Spring Festival at the Baotu Spring Park in Jinan, capital city of east China's Shandong Province, Feb. 11, 2018. The Spring Festival, or the Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Feb. 16 this year. (Xinhua/Lyu Chuanquan)WASHINGTON, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. university of Harvard on Sunday named Lawrence Bacow its next president, saying he will lead the school to counter doubts and challenges against higher education.

William Lee, chairman of the presidential search committee, said Bacow was picked "when the singular value of higher education and university research has too often been challenged and called into doubt" and that Bacow will provide "skillful leadership, strategic thinking, and disciplined execution" needed in such times.

Bacow will assume the position on July 1, replacing Drew Faust, who has been in the seat for 11 years as Harvard's first female president.

"The Harvard I have known has always stood for at least three things: the pursuit of truth, an unwavering commitment to excellence, and opportunity," Bacow said, adding that these guiding ideals have never been more important in a divided nation.

Bacow, 66, is a native of Pontiac, Michigan, and son of immigrants. He has attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, earning a PhD in public policy from the latter.

Bacow now serves as the Hauser Leader-in-Residence at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government's Center for Public Leadership, after serving 10 years as the president of Tufts University.MOSCOW, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Russian military has successfully tested a new air defense missile at a range in Kazakhstan, a local newspaper reported Monday.

A new modernized air defense missile has successfully fulfilled the task and reached the target with specified accuracy in Sary Shagan of the Kazakhstan firing range, Andrei Prikhodko, deputy commander of Aerospace Forces' air and missile defense taskforce, told Russia's Krasnaya Zvezda newspaper.

Prikhodko also highlighted that the missile's tactical and technical characteristics regarding the range, precision and life span far outweigh the ones currently in service.

All parts of the missile are Russian manufacturers-made, said Prikhodko.

The new modernized air defense missile can handle both single and multiple strikes, including with the use of the new generation intercontinental ballistic missile, added Prikhodko.McCann was one victimized family member that Governor Rauner promised Fox News' Bret Baier in August 2017 he would speak to before signing SB 31 - that protects illegals from law enforcement - into law .

WHEATON - A new Ives campaign ad features Brian McCann, whose brother Denny was killed in Chicago six years ago by a drunken driver that was in the U.S. illegally.

BAIER: There are some families who say theyve lost loved ones because of sanctuary status or policy and theyre trying to meet with you. Do you want to hear that point of view? RAUNER: I want to hear everybodys point of view. I work for everybody in the state of Illinois. Our immigration system is broken and we need to have a system that keeps the people of Illinois safe, the people of America safe. Weve got to put that as the first priority.

Though staff reportedly had placed McCann's number on Governor Rauner's call list before the signing, the governor refused to make the call and signed the bill into law.

McCann spoke with Illinois Review just before the governor's action, and he didn't hold back his frustration.

"No, the governor hasn't called me yet," Brian McCann told Illinois Review in August. "It's very disappointing. There are four families that want a chance to share their stories with him in person. We're all hoping he does what he said he would do."

And that was that Rauner would hear their point of view.

It never happened.

Governor Bruce Rauner told reporters at the bill signing he didn't know anything about the families that wanted to speak with him. McCann was told that his cell and phone numbers were on the governor's call list a week before the signing. McCann never heard from the governor.

"Insult to injury continues," McCann told Fox News' Mike Tobin. "They know better. This is an issue of safety."

McCann's brother's killer was released from Chicago Police detainment after he posted a $25,000 bond. The killer is now living in Mexico, yet to be punished for his crime.

Ives' new ad:KABUL, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Security forces have captured a senior commander of the hardliner Islamic State (IS) group in Afghan western Ghor province, a local news agency Khaama press reported Tuesday.

Identifying the arrested IS commander as Qari Rahmatulah, the report added that large number of arms and ammunitions including five pieces of rocket propelled grenades and explosive materials were also discovered during the operations.

IS outfit which emerged in the eastern Nangarhar province in early 2015 and has been attempting to expand its influence in other parts of the war-battered country has yet to make comment.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 15:49:07|Editor: Xiang Bo

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by Julia Pierrepont III

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- "Happy New Year! I wish you good, health, good fortune and great prosperity in the coming new year," said Los Angeles (LA) County Supervisor, Kathryn Barger, to a happy crowd at a local hotel.

The guests gathered here were Chinese of all ages, including a few elders in traditional Chinese costumes and kids frolicking with puppies under foot, as well as Americans new to the tradition of the Chinese New Year.

"I can't get home to China every year, so spending a wonderful afternoon at the Biltmore Hotel to celebrate the Chinese New Year makes me feel at home. It is important to me that this tradition is passed down to the younger generations," a local attendee of Chinese origin who identified herself as Venus told Xinhua.

As the Oscars loom large, the historic Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown LA, home to the original Academy Award ceremonies in the 1930s and the early 1940s, ushered in a different type of Saturday as it hosted an early kick-off for the 2018 Los Angeles Chinese New Year's celebrations.

The Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, based on the Chinese lunar calendar, is historically a time to honor traditional Chinese deities and family ancestors. The Spring Festival holiday season officially begins this year on Feb. 16. and ends on March 2.

"This year is the Year of the Dog, which is significant because it means loyalty, friendliness, strength and trustworthiness," said Biltmore's Chinese community leader Jimmy Wu.

"This is a great tradition that allows us to celebrate the coming of the New Year and the rich culture and diversity here in LA county and throughout the nation," Barger told Xinhua.

Under the elaborate murals, carvings, frescos, marble fountains, and crystal chandeliers, a pride of colorful Lion Dancers regaled the mixed crowd of Chinese and Americans with exotic ceremonial dances, succulent roast duck, traditional Chinese New Year's sweet rice soup, shrimp and scallion pancakes, dumplings and Mandarin oranges.

Former California State Senator Bob Huff told Xinhua that "California is such a diverse community, with over 50 languages and dialects, but we are stronger and more competitive when we integrate and learn from other cultures."

"What's great about the Chinese American culture here in California is that they are bringing their culture into our communities," Barger said, "I heard this morning that California is sponsoring legislation to make Chinese New Year a state-recognized holiday. So that tells you just how deep our connections are."

"I am Chinese and proud to be Chinese. But I live in America and I am proud to be American too. I have this great opportunity to have those unique two experiences work together," said Wu.

The spirit of optimism was running high for others too, as attendees told Xinhua about their hopes for future cooperation between the United States and China and what it might mean for their businesses.

William Wei, a prominent film producer from Beijing, attended the ceremony with his wife. He is undertaking a U.S.-China motion picture co-production and also considering opening a joint U.S.-China production company in Los Angeles.

"We see so many Chinese and American friends celebrating a Chinese cultural tradition here together. We are confident in future cooperation between China and the United States and our ability to create a better future together," said Wei.

"Especially with U.S.-China co-productions. There are so many stories we can share with the world," Wei added.

Another attendee, Kung Fu master and novelist, Sin Kwang The, is a longtime LA resident whose family originally came from southeast China's Fujian Province.

"My roots are in China and my branches are in the United States. But my future combine the two," he told Xinhua, referring to his upcoming U.S.-China film co-production "Defenders of the Gao."

Others mentioned real estate opportunities, high-tech and other service-oriented businesses, making international trade and cooperation the key topic of the day.

Huff, who helped institute the Sister-State program between California and east China's Jiangsu Province, told Xinhua, "Our Chinese immigrants value good business and want to thrive, which helps our economy and our whole community. They have the values we share that honor hard work, family, and education."BAGHDAD, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian Monday arrived in the Iraqi capital Baghdad on an official visit to meet with Iraqi leaders, an Iraqi official said.

Le Drian was received by his Iraqi counterpart Ibrahim al-Jaafari in Baghdad airport and the two sides held a meeting and discussed bilateral relations, including France's participation in the conference of Iraq's reconstruction held in Kuwait, as well as supporting Iraq in its war against terrorism, the source from the Iraqi Foreign Ministry told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

The French chief of diplomacy is expected to meet with top Iraqi officials, including Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, the source said.

Le Drian visit came as Kuwait's international conference for reconstruction of Iraq, which follows the full defeat of Islamic State group in the country.

The conference has kicked off in Kuwait on Monday and is scheduled to end on Feb. 14, as donor countries and organizations are expected to announce financial contributions at the meeting amid great aspirations by the Iraqis who are eager for a positive outcome that will help rebuild their war-torn country.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 16:34:21|Editor: Xiang Bo

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by Xinhua writers Ma Guihua, Raul Menchaca

HAVANA, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- The pavilion of China -- a guest country of honor -- received a special award on Sunday in the just concluded XXVII Havana International Book Fair.

Having presented 7,000 copies of over 3,000 titles, the pavilion, which spread over 400 square meters in the centennial Fort of San Carlos de La Cabana, was one of the most visited section.

Chinese books were warmly accepted by the Cuban public in the book fair which lasted 11 days. Among the presented were "Cell Phone" by Liu Zhenyun, "Running through Zhongguancun" by Xu Zechen and "To Live" by Yu Hua.

At the closing ceremony, Juan Rodriguez, president of the Cuban Book Institute, said that China's participation in the publishing fair gave a special meaning to the event.

"China exceeded all expectations," said Rodriguez.

During the book fair, Chinese and Cuban publishers signed a dozen of cooperation agreements. And the Asian delegation, composed of more than 200 publishers, writers and artists, offered an important cultural show.

Yu Xin, a young saleswoman, told Xinhua that "today is the last day of sales but I think this has not been sufficient for the Cubans, as they want more Chinese books."

Yu, who has been improving her Spanish at Havana University for a year, felt surprised that Chinese books were sold out.

According to Yu, Cubans frequently requested books on Chinese President Xi Jinping, particularly the two volumes of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China."

Li Jiao, a volunteer who helped with the selling, said that "the most sold books were those about teaching Chinese, about Confucian philosophy and about traditional Chinese cooking."

The book fair, which had China as a guest country of honor for the first time, provided a chance for the Cubans to get close to an unfamiliar culture.

Heydi Alonso, a student learning Chinese at the Confucius Institute in Havana, has bought many Chinese books, yet he is not fully satisfied. Alonso said he hopes there could be books about Chinese architecture and decoration.

Cuban publishers also realized the potential of selling modern Chinese literature to the island, as explained by Hermes Moreno, director of a publishing house called Nuevo Milenio.

"We truly feel very happy and very hopeful about bringing modern Chinese literature to Cuba," said Moreno.

Chen Xi, the Chinese ambassador to Havana, highlighted the success of the book fair. He said the city turns into a party to be able to read and share knowledge and friendship.

"It was an excellent experience for me to be able to attend this fair," said the diplomat who thanked the decision to have China as a guest of honor.

The books brought here by the Chinese delegation were almost sold out in the first three days of the book fair.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 16:44:25|Editor: Xiang Bo

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by Xinhua writer Gu Zhenqiu

OXFORD, England, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Holding high a sanxian, the three-stringed plucked lute, in his hand, British student Mike Skelton on Sunday night explained to a full house of more than 400 audience that the Chinese musical instrument was brought into existence nearly 2,000 years ago.

At the request of a hostess, Mike plucked the traditional instrument, and a flow of percussive tone was produced from the long-necked fretless lute. It has a long fingerboard, and the body is traditionally made from snakeskin stretched over a rounded rectangular resonator.

His presentation was part of the gala performance at Oxford University to hail the upcoming lunar Chinese New Year, which, known as the Year of the Dog, begins on Feb. 16, according to the Chinese lunar calendar.

Mike and his three fellow Britons, all non-Chinese students from the University of London who played hulusi flute, a free reed wind instrument from China, Chinese bamboo flute and a big Chinese drum for the party to welcome the Chinese New Year.

They performed the music from north China's Inner Mongolia and folk songs from Shaanxi Province in northwest China, and won excited applause at the packed Town Hall in central Oxford city, which is located in southeast England and some 80 kilometers away from London.

In the Town Hall, the stage and hallway were decorated with red Chinese lanterns, the Chinese characters meaning "Luck" or "Happiness", and Spring Festival couplets.

Many smiling Chinese and British people, most of whom were dressed in their holiday best, took photos before the Spring Festival couplets ahead of the start of the performance.

The gala show also featured a group of young Chinese and British children in their first class to learn Chinese classic books of Confucianism.

However, it was not all about something ancient and something Chinese. For instance, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) were also used to illuminate beautiful costumes of Chinese dancers in the ballet Lake Swan, which is one of the most famous and loved of all ballets in the world.

Among the audience were Rebecca Surender, pro vice-chancellor of Oxford University and Xia Jianhui, an education counsellor from the Chinese Embassy in London.

Standing on the stage decorated with red Chinese lanterns, Surender said that Oxford University is proud of having the first Chinese student on the campus more than 400 years ago.

Meanwhile, she also voiced the hope that her university will have closer cooperation with China.

At present, more than 1,000 Chinese students are studying at the world-famous higher education institution.

Both British and Chinese governments pledged to further expand cooperation in such fields as education and culture during the visit to the United Kingdom by Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong in December 2017 and the China tour from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 by British Prime Minister Theresa May, her first official China trip since she took office in 2016.WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Research shows that children participating in a 12-week, before-school physical activity program present better body weight level and social wellness than their classmates who did not participate.

Investigators from MassGeneral Hospital for Children in Boston provided hour-long, before-school sessions three or two times a week in a 12-week curriculum, said a paper published Monday online in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

In 24 elementary and middle schools in three eastern Massachusetts communities during the 2015-16 school year, the parents of all students were invited to enroll their children in the program.

Parents of those not participating in BOKS (Before School Fitness) could allow their children to participate in the comparison group. BOKS is a U.S. organization powered by communities and empowers parents, teachers, schools and volunteers to give children a body and brain boost to help them set up for a day of learning.

Overall, for a total of 707 study participants, 274 children participated in the twice-a-week program, 151 in the three-times-a-week program, and 282 in the comparison group.

Each session includes a warm-up game, a running-related activity, skill training such as push-ups or sit-ups and a game to end the session.

The research shows that children participating three times a week had a greater chance of moving to a lower BMI (Body Mass Index) category and recording normal instead of overweight, compared with children in the comparison group.

In addition, participants aged eight and older completed surveys to evaluate their social and emotional wellness, including their overall mood, interaction with peers, satisfaction with their lives and their involvement of studies.

The result shows that participants of three-times-a-week group had better scores regarding their engagement in schoolwork, while those in the two-times-a-week group had significant improvement in mood, vitality and energy.

"Childhood is an important time for the establishment of healthy habits and routines that might protect children from chronic diseases including obesity, heart disease, and depression," said Elsie Taveras, professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School who led the study.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 16:59:34|Editor: Lifang

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BEIRUT, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- After the downing of an Israeli warplane by Syrian forces over the weekend, Lebanon's Speaker Nabih Berri said the incident "will create new rules of engagement" as he ruled out an escalation in the region, assuring that Lebanon's oil excavation rights are safeguarded, al-Joumhouria daily reported Monday.

"What happened is larger than a battle and a little less than a war. It will create new balances and rules of engagement in the region. This event is the first of its kind in tens of years. However, no escalation is expected. Things will end there, they will not develop into a comprehensive war," the daily quoted Berri as telling his visitors.

As for the issue of Lebanon's oil and gas field, Berri said "there is no fear for our oil rights. The president of (energy giant) France's Total told me two days ago that the alliance of oil companies that will be drilling on oil and gas will not be affected by the Israeli threats."

He added "the importance of approving the prospect of exploration in Block 9 oil field lies in the fact that we have maintained our oil rights in the face of Israeli ambitions, and Lebanon's position in this regard is unified."

Israel struck what it said were Iranian targets inside Syria on Saturday in "large-scale" raids after an Israeli warplane crashed under fire from Syrian air defenses.

On Israel's threats against Lebanon and the controversial Israeli cement wall on the border between the two countries, Berri said a tripartite committee meeting would be held today in al-Naqoura to examine the Israeli response to Lebanon's position on the separation wall construed by Israel. Lebanon had informed Israel last Monday of its position in that regard and awaited its response today.

"In this regard, Lebanon will adhere to the 1949 armistice line. The Blue Line imposed by UN Resolution 1701 is not the border of southern Lebanon. What applies to Lebanon's land borders should also apply to the maritime border," stressed the Speaker.HARARE, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa left Harare for Gaborone, Botswana, Monday morning on his first state visit since taking over from former president Robert Mugabe last November.

State media New Ziana reported Monday that Mnangagwa would join about a dozen Cabinet ministers who were already in Botswana ahead of bilateral talks between the two countries.

Botswana President Seretse Khama Ian Khama, who had icy relations with Mugabe whom he alleged was failing to uphold the rule of law, was among regional leaders who witnessed Mnangagwa's inauguration as president.

Zimbabwe's foreign affairs and international trade minister Sibusiso Moyo said the visit to Botswana would boost relations between the two countries.

"It is what I would call a resuscitation of the Joint Commission between Zimbabwe and Botswana. The last Joint Commission was about seven or so years ago.

"The main objective is to reinvigorate the relations, particularly the economic cooperation between the two nations," Moyo said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 17:04:37|Editor: Lifang

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BAGHDAD, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A total of five people were killed Monday and six others wounded in gunfire and bomb attacks in the Iraqi provinces of Salahudin and Diyala, officials and a security source said.

In Salahudin province, unidentified gunmen at dawn broke in a house in al-Farhatiyah area, some 30 km southwest of the city of Samarra, and shot dead three family members before they fled the scene, Colonel Mohammed Khalaf al-Jubouri from the provincial police told Xinhua.

A police force rushed to the family house in Farhatiyah, but a roadside bomb struck a police vehicle near the house, leaving a policeman killed and three others wounded along with destroying the police vehicle, Jubouri said.

In Diyala province, a civilian was killed and his wife seriously wounded when a roadside bomb struck their car near a village in north of the town of al-Udheim in north of the provincial capital city of Baquba, Mohammed al-Obeidi, head of Udheim town council, told Xinhua.

Also in Diyala, Saad Ismael, a member of al-Abbara town council and his uncle Sheikh Mahmoud al-Baiyati, a tribal leader, were wounded in the morning when three roadside bombs detonated outside Islamil's house in the town of al-Abbara in northeast of Baquba, according to Adnan al-Timimi, head of the town's council.

"It was an assassination attempt aimed at destabilizing the security situation in the town," Timimi said, accusing sleeper cells of Islamic State (IS) group of being behind the attack.

The attacks came despite repeated anti-IS military operations in the sprawling rugged areas in the eastern part of Salahudin province and extend to the neighboring Diyala province and the nearby Himreen mountainous area.

During the past few months, dozens of IS militants fled their former bases in the predominately Sunni Arab province of Salahudin, Hawijah area in west of Kirkuk, after the Iraqi forces drove out the extremist militants from these areas during anti-IS offensives in the past few months.

On Dec. 9, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi officially declared full liberation of Iraq from IS militants after Iraqi forces recaptured all the areas once seized by the extremist group.

However, small groups and individuals of IS militants melted in urban areas or resorted to deserts and rugged areas looking for safe havens. They are still capable of carrying out attacks from time to time against the security forces and civilians.SHARM EL-SHEIKH, Egypt, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Amid joyful atmosphere of a moonlit breezy night, hundreds of Egyptians and Chinese celebrated the Chinese Spring Festival in the Egyptian tourist city of Sharm el-Sheikh.

The Hollywood fun park in the Red Sea resort city embraced a three-day activity organized by the Chinese embassy in Egypt to celebrate China's upcoming spring festival, which marks the first day of the New Year in the Chinese calendar.

The park walls and trees were garnished with red Chinese lanterns and colorful Chinese paintings welcoming the visitors, with people watching traditional lion dance performances in the alleyways of the tourist site.

The audience eagerly stood to watch Chinese artists performing numerous shows such as Kung Fu, dragon shows, acrobats and face-changing shows.

"It is a good chance for me to get some knowledge about the Chinese culture," Ahmed Zulfikar, an Egyptian worker from Sharm el-Sheikh told Xinhua as he watched happily the performances.

The man said he was keen to bring his wife and two kids to the festival because they were so eager to watch Chinese artistic and cultural shows.

"We also wanted to say happy New Year to the friendly Chinese people," he said as he flashed a big smile.

During the performance, Chinese hosts served their guests a variety of Chinese food to give them a taste of China in and Egyptian city.

On the passageway leading to the celebration, crowds stood in front of several stands that showed Chinese homemade artifacts, with a number of artists painting traditional masks on children's faces.

As artists performed on stage, Chinese organizers visited every table to distribute gifts to the guests who came from different countries, not only Egypt.

"The Arab peoples are keen to learn about Chinese culture, especially because there is cultural similarity between the Arabs and the Chinese peoples," Tareq Hussein, an Iraqi tourist said.

"I also loved the Chinese noodles...it is the first time for me to try Chinese food," Hussein said as he sipped from a hot cup of Chinese tea.

Reacting to the Chinese music, Hussein said he hopes that such Chinese celebrations would be held in his country, Iraq.

Sitting on a nearby table, Ahmed Magdi, vice president of the Friends of Tourism Association in Sharm el-Sheikh, said that the Chinese Spring Festival was very successful and promoted for tourism in the city, wishing that festival will be celebrated annually in resort city.

"The celebration is well attended by Egyptians and non-Egyptians because they have the desire to learn more about Chinese culture," he said adding Chinese people are well admired by Egyptians for their culture and civilization as well as their good hearts.

After upgrading the relations between the two countries to a "comprehensive strategic partnership," cultural exchange has been at its peak as artists, cultural and musical delegations have changed visits.

Through such activities, Egypt and China want to boost friendly ties and enhance mutual understanding and future development between the peoples of the two nations, whose relations have deep roots back in history.

Chinese Ambassador to Cairo Song Aiguo said in his speech during the ceremony that he was very happy to participate in this celebration, which is attended by many Egyptians and other people from different nationalities.

He said this is the first time that the Spring Festival is celebrated in Sharm el-Sheikh after it was celebrated in a number of Egyptian cities during the past years, especially in Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.

The ambassador stressed that such celebrations and mutual exchanges would further enhance the friendship between the Egyptian and Chinese people, adding that this has been reflected positively on relations and cooperations in various fields.

For his part, Governor of South Sinai, Khaled Fouda, greeted the Chinese people over the Chinese Spring Festival, highlighting the strength of the relations between the Egyptian and Chinese people.

He called on the Chinese people to visit the city, which is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world, stressing that South Sinai in general and Sharm el-Sheikh in particular are looking to increase the number of Chinese tourists.

Meanwhile, Qiu Guoliang, the head of Zhejiang provincial cultural center, told Xinhua this is the first time that the celebrations was held in Sharm el-Sheikh, adding that the festival would be more and more localized in the future.

"In order to introduce the Chinese Spring Festival to the world, we felt we should know our own culture better in the first place and try our best to enrich it, make it more merged and innovative," he said."These were two guys good on the issues Illinois Family Action is interested in, we looked at their willingness to repudiate Governor Rauner," IFA's executive director David E. Smith told Illinois Review Monday.

For Illinois Family Action, a sister organization to Illinois Family Institute, how willing the candidates are to stand with social conservative gubernatorial primary challenger Jeanne Ives determined their pick in the race.

CHICAGO - The GOP primary race in the 108th House District between incumbent State Rep. Charlie Meier (R-Highland) and challenger Madison County Board member Don Moore drew attention last week when the Belleville News Democrat questioned the government funding each candidate receives - one based on the federal government's farming subsidies and the other due to military veteran benefits.

Smith said during a session with fellow conservative leaders earlier this year, the answers candidates gave when the panel asked primary candidates,"Are you willing to endorse Jeanne Ives?" determined their final endorsement.

That was the case with IFA's endorsement of military veteran Don Moore.

"Rep. Meier was hesitant to separate himself from the governor, and Don Moore was willing to stand with Jeanne Ives," Smith said.

Meier supported the controversial 32 percent state income tax hike last session, and stood to defend his vote on the House floor. For that vote, Meier was targeted by the Liberty Principles PAC, which is supporting Moore's challenge.

Faith and family are important to Moore, he said in a statement released Monday.

Im running for office to bring our conservative values and principles to state government, said Moore. When I look at Springfield, it is difficult to find these values being exercised. Our families here in District 108 deserve better leadership.

A retired Marine, a devoted husband and father of three daughters, and a member of the Madison County Board, Moore said he is ready to take his values to Springfield to represent the people of District 108, and families all across the state.

We need Don Moore because as a retired Marine major, he will stand up to the Chicago Democrats and surrender Republicans who are jamming their values down our throats, Smith said.

Don Moore is pro-life and he has fought to protect faith and freedom. As a veteran, I know he has the courage to do what is right, even when its difficult.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 17:14:40|Editor: Xiang Bo

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The mainland is highly concerned about Taiwan compatriots after the earthquake in Hualien County, An Fengshan, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said Monday.

"Mainland organizations such as the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS), the Red Cross Society of China, the Seismological Society of China, as well as the governments of Beijing, Fujian and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, have expressed their sympathy to those afflicted by the earthquake and sent condolences to those that lost their lives," An said.

Authorities and enterprises on the mainland have been donating money and goods to Taiwan, amounting to 20.88 million yuan (3.31 million U.S. dollars), he added.

The earthquake has claimed the lives of nine mainland tourists, with six mainland tourists injured. Authorities including the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and ARATS opened a fast-track for families of the victims to go to Taiwan and supported them to cope with the aftermath, An said.

An expressed gratitude to relevant parties in Taiwan, including Hualien County and rescue staff, for their full support in the rescue, and for their care and assistance to the injured mainland tourists and families of the deceased.Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa (Front) speaks during a ceremony to rename the country's army and air force headquarters, in Harare, capital of Zimbabwe, Dec. 6, 2017. (Xinhua/Shaun Jusa)

HARARE, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa left Harare for Gaborone, Botswana, Monday morning on his first state visit since taking over from former president Robert Mugabe last November.

State media New Ziana reported Monday that Mnangagwa would join about a dozen Cabinet ministers who were already in Botswana ahead of bilateral talks between the two countries.

Botswana President Seretse Khama Ian Khama, who had icy relations with Mugabe whom he alleged was failing to uphold the rule of law, was among regional leaders who witnessed Mnangagwa's inauguration as president.

Zimbabwe's foreign affairs and international trade minister Sibusiso Moyo said the visit to Botswana would boost relations between the two countries.

"It is what I would call a resuscitation of the Joint Commission between Zimbabwe and Botswana. The last Joint Commission was about seven or so years ago.

"The main objective is to reinvigorate the relations, particularly the economic cooperation between the two nations," Moyo said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 18:14:51|Editor: Liangyu

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by Mahmoud Fouly, Abdel-Maguid Kamal

CAIRO, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The ongoing approach, coordination and closeness between Egypt and Cyprus and the maritime demarcation deal between the two countries have been raising Turkey's concerns over the past few years, amid Ankara's tense relations with both Cairo and Nicosia, said Egyptian political experts.

Turkey has recently declared its rejection of a 2013 maritime border demarcation agreement between Egypt and Cyprus that allows exploration for gas in the area. Turkey's position has been slammed by Cairo as infringement of Egypt's economic rights in its eastern Mediterranean's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said last week that his country considers the maritime border demarcation agreement "null and void," adding that it "violates Turkey's continental shelf." Turkey claims part of Cyprus' EEZ as its own continental shelf.

Cavusoglu continued that no foreign country, company or vessel may conduct any unauthorized hydrocarbon or scientific research activity on Turkey's continental shelf.

"Turkey and Cyprus have historical territorial disagreement and Ankara's rejection of Egypt-Cyprus maritime demarcation deal indicates Turkish plans for gas exploration in the Mediterranean," said Tarek Fahmy, a political science professor at Cairo University.

On the other hand, Egypt's ties with Turkey deteriorated following the military ouster of former Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in July 2013 in response to mass protests against his one-year rule and his now-outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan repeatedly rejected the military removal of Morsi in July 2013, led by then-army-chief and current Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi.

Sisi accuses Turkey, besides Qatar, of supporting terrorism and interfering in Egypt's domestic affairs by hosting fleeing blacklisted Brotherhood members.

"Turkey is at odd with Cyprus and Greece, while Cairo has key agreements with Nicosia and Athens, which causes a lot of concerns to Ankara," Fahmy told Xinhua.

Egypt has recently celebrated the early production of its Zohr gas field, the largest in the Mediterranean Sea, which was discovered by Italy's oil giant Eni in August 2015.

"Zohr gas field surely raised Turkey's greed as well as concern over possible expansion of Cairo's influence in the east Mediterranean region that Ankara sees as a threat to its interests," said the political science professor.

Cyprus has remained divided since 1974. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was declared in November 1983 but it was only recognized by Turkey.

Egypt and Cyprus, in addition to Greece, signed several cooperation agreements over the past few years, including an agreement in November 2017 to cooperate in surveillance of the east Mediterranean region to prevent arms and people trafficking as well as terrorism.

The presidents of Cyprus and Egypt also discussed an agreement to build a gas pipeline from a Cypriot natural gas field to Egypt.

On Sunday, Cypriot ambassador to Cairo Khris Moritissis told Egyptian lawmakers that Turkey does not have the power to direct any threats to the interests of Cyprus and Egypt in the east Mediterranean.

"Turkey's rejection of Egypt-Cyprus maritime demarcation agreement complies with the Turkish hostile attitudes towards Egypt at both the economic and political levels," said Mohamed Megahed al-Zayyat, security expert and adviser to the Cairo-based National Center for Middle East Studies.

The expert said that Turkey is aware that the Egyptian-Cypriot agreement has been approved by the United Nations and that Ankara's denial of the deal is illegal. "The Turks understand this very well."

"I believe there is no conflict or overlap between the Egyptian and the Turkish EEZ in the east Mediterranean," Zayyat told Xinhua.

He said that the appearance of Egypt's Zohr field as the largest in the Mediterranean lured not only Turkey but all east Mediterranean states to carry out further exploration for gas and led to international and regional race in the region.

Zayyat illustrated that there is a disagreement between the Israelis and the Palestinians over gas-rich areas on Gaza Strip's offshore, besides similar Israeli-Lebanese and Syrian-Turkish disagreements.

"East Mediterranean states cannot explore for gas outside their EEZs according to international laws," the expert continued, stressing the ability of the Egyptian naval forces to protect the country's gas fields in case of any violation.

"Generally, I believe that the prickly relations between Ankara and Cairo do not require further tension," Zayyat told Xinhua.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 18:19:52|Editor: Lifang

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GAZA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The health ministry spokesman in Gaza said Monday that operation rooms in the hospitals in Gaza were completely paralyzed due to the accumulation of dirts and rubbish in the hospitals for the second day in a row.

Ashraf al Qedra said that medical teams can't provide medical services in any hospital or medical center because of the loads of rubbish and trash.

The cleaning services have stopped in all medical facilities in the Gaza Strip on Sunday because the cleaning companies are on a general strike for non payment of salaries.

The health ministry said in a press statement that nearly 200 operations were put off due to the current strike.

Physicians organized a sit in at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza Strip Monday morning, calling for meeting the demands of striking workers.

The ministry's statement said that the strike has obstructed the work of 13 hospitals, 51 primary health care centers and 22 other medical centers run by the ministry.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 18:29:54|Editor: Xiang Bo

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Chinese President Xi Jinping (L, front), also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, talks with scientists and technicians, asking them about their research, work and lives, as he visits a military base in southwest China's Sichuan Province, Feb. 10, 2018. Xi extended festival greetings to all officers and soldiers of the People's Liberation Army and the armed police force, and all militia and reserve personnel. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

CHENGDU, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping visited a military base in Sichuan Province in southwest China on Saturday ahead of the Spring Festival, which falls on Feb. 16 this year.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, extended festival greetings to all officers and soldiers of the People's Liberation Army and the armed police force, and all militia and reserve personnel.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 18:29:55|Editor: Lifang

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday sent a message of condolence to his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, over the crash of a Russian airplane.

The Russian airliner carrying 71 people crashed Sunday shortly after taking off from Moscow, killing all the people on board, including 65 passengers and a crew of six.

Xi said in his message that he was shocked at the incident and offered his deep condolences to all the victims on behalf of the Chinese government and people and in his own name.

Xi also extended deep sympathy and sincere condolences to the families of the victims.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang also sent a message of condolence to his Russian counterpart, Dmitry Medvedev, over the crash.ISTANBUL, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Relations between Turkey and the United States have deteriorated now to a point of either being fixed or breaking down completely, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu cautioned on Monday.

Declaring bilateral ties at a critical point, the top Turkish envoy said "we will either fix the ties or they will break down completely."

Speaking to the press in Istanbul following a meeting with African states, he said Washington has made several mistakes in handling its relationship with Ankara, including giving support to the Kurdish militia in Syria known as the People's Protection Units (YPG).

Turkish troops launched an air and ground offensive against YPG-held Afrin in northwestern Syria on Jan. 20, as Ankara treats the Kurdish militants as terrorists associated with the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party.

Turkey has threatened to target Manbij, another Syrian town held by the YPG, in its next move, but the United States has refused to withdraw its troops from the town as demanded by Ankara, heightening the risk of a direct confrontation between the NATO allies.

"It is natural that we lost our trust in the U.S.," Cavusoglu said, stressing that Ankara does not want to hear any more empty promises from its ally but rather wants to see concrete steps.

Turkish president's security and foreign policy adviser Ibrahim Kalin met with U.S. National Security Adviser Herbert Raymond McMaster in Istanbul over the weekend, while foreign and defense ministers of the two countries are scheduled to meet respectively in Ankara and Brussels in the coming days.

Cavusoglu said all the sensitive issues will be discussed in detail during U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's visit to Ankara.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 19:10:06|Editor: Lifang

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People gather around a destroyed passenger van in Pakistan's southern district of Hyderabad on Feb. 12, 2018. At least 11 people were killed, including nine women, and several others injured in a deadly road crash in Pakistan's southern district of Hyderabad on Monday, said a senior police official. (Xinhua/Stringer)

ISLAMABAD, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- At least 11 people were killed, including nine women, and several others injured in a deadly road crash in Pakistan's southern district of Hyderabad on Monday, said a senior police official.

Dost Mohammad Mangrio, Deputy Superintendent of Police in Hyderabad, said the accident occurred on Tando Muhammad Khan Road in the city when a speedy truck collided with a passenger van, killing eight people on the spot. Three of the injured succumbed to their injuries on the way to hospital.

The deceased women worked for a private sales company based in Hyderabad, a district in the country's southern Sindh province and they were going to a nearby village to sell the products when the incident happened, said Mangrio, adding that the cause of the accident could not be ascertained yet.

The bodies were shifted to the Civil Hospital of Hyderabad while the injured which also included some women were being treated for their injuries, Geo News said.

Moreover, the ruling party in Sindh province, Pakistan People's Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed grief over the incident and directed the Sindh government to compensate the victims of the families and treat the injured.

Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah also expressed grief over the incident and sought report regarding the fatal incident from commissioner of Hyderabad and deputy commissioner of Tando Muhammad Khan.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 19:20:10|Editor: Lifang

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KUWAIT CITY, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Reconstruction process in Iraq requires sound planning, said Abdulwahab Al-Bader, Director General of Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) on Monday.

He made the remarks at the Kuwait International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq (KICRI).

Iraq was viciously attacked by terrorism, which have led to the displacement of over five million Iraqis, he said.

"Damage reached infrastructure, transport, power and water facilities, as well as crops, in addition to deterioration in educational and health services," he added.

"The Iraqi vision could be achieved through efforts exerted by the people in order to recover and bounce back economically, with the help of international development endeavors and the private sector," he noted.

The KICRI kicked off Monday in Kuwait City with the focus on post war reconstruction of Iraq and vital issues concerned.

The three-day meeting, which brings together several economic powers, as well as regional and international organizations, will touch upon needed contributions to rebuilding Iraq after many years of war and conflict that ripped through various parts of the country.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 19:20:11|Editor: Xiang Bo

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- China hopes all parties concerned will cherish the current detente on the Korean Peninsula and work together to achieve a nuclear-free peninsula, said a Foreign Ministry spokesman on Monday.

Spokesman Geng Shuang made the remarks at a routine press briefing when asked to comment on the invitation of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to the Republic of Korea (ROK) President Moon Jae-in to travel to Pyongyang for talks.

Geng said China welcomes the recent dialogue and cooperation between the two Koreas on the PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

He said the joint efforts made by the DPRK and the ROK to improve relations and promote reconciliation and cooperation were in the fundamental interests of both sides and conducive to promoting peace and development in the region.

"We hope that dialogue during the Olympics will extend to routine dialogue, and dialogue between DPRK and the ROK will be expanded to dialogue between all the relevant parties, especially between DPRK and the United States," Geng quoted Foreign Minister Wang Yi as saying.

He also said he hoped that the two Korea's efforts to improve relations would be expanded to joint efforts of all parties to maintain peace in the Korean Peninsula.After reading the diatribe you launched against GOP gubernatorial candidate Jeanne Ives for her recent political ad, I couldnt help but wonder if your rant wasnt really retaliatory in nature because Ives has exposed Rauners infidelity to the Illinois Republican Partys values.

I also couldnt help but wonder why you distorted Ives portrayal of transgenders in such a way as to make one believe she thinks they are the lowest of the low when in reality, Ives has shown compassion for the horrible fix in which they find themselves. Ives was simply bringing home the distinct concern that perverts will use transgenderism as another vehicle to invade the privacy of our bathrooms, changing areas, and worse.

Others believe your condemnation was nothing less than a veiled threat against women everywhere, that if they attempt to rise above their place in Illinois politics, they will be promptly destroyed. Perhaps you believe their place is in a Molly Maid type of organization that simply comes in to clean the governors mansion occasionally. Your rant has made it a distinct possibility that Ives will come in and clean it out once and for all! Based on the negative reaction to your rant, Ives may indeed end up cleaning out the governors mansion, but in a much different way than you think!

Or maybe its just because family values no longer mean anything to you (assuming they once did) and youre trying to court the homosexual vote for Rauner at the expense of values oriented Illinoisans. As you probably know by now, Rauners approval rating is only in the mid 20s and anything you can do to help him will probably earn you some brownie points.

Shame on you! You may support transgenderism, but the vast majority of Americans strongly support traditional values in spite of what the Lizard People in the media and polling industries claim to the contrary.

And Mr. Schneider, you claim that Ives doesnt speak for Illinoisans. But you do? Really?

What hubris!

If you are unaware of it, a political party is composed of its elected and appointed committeemen and women period. Thats a far cry from all Illinoisans. And if you think you speak for all those non party members who support the Republican Party with their money, campaign involvement, and vote, I believe that youre out of touch with reality.

And I can say that with some authority: as the past elected chairman, president, and CEO of Ross Perots United We Stand America, I have retained close ties with the many leaders and members of the organization over the years. And the emails I have received concerning your stewardship of the Illinois Republican Party has been negative ever since your ascension to office. And now, your rant over the Ives commercial has generated further contempt for you in particular and the Republican Party in general!

It is you, Mr. Schneider, who owe an apology to the hard working, heavily taxed, family oriented individuals in Illinois for placing your values above theirs. And it is you, Mr. Schneider, who owe an apology to the committeemen and women throughout Illinois whom you have offended with your rant.

And it is you Mr. Schneider, who has violated a cardinal rule of the Illinois Republican Party: officers of the party may not impact a Primary by endorsing any particular candidate in contested races. Your negative diatribe against Ives is a tacit endorsement of Rauner. You, Mr. Schneider, should resign as chairman of the Illinois Republican Party immediately!

Make no bones about it Rauner is about to lose the governorship. Whether its to Ives during the Primary, or to one of the democrats after the Primary is yet to be seen. But he will lose like so many others have done under your watch. Unfortunately, he will take others down with him. Not only has Rauner been voted the worst Republican governor in the Nation, his actions suggest we would all be better off if he officially changed parties.

Yours very truly,

Jack KoenigKABUL, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Police have arrested a militant riding an explosive laden car and thus foiled a possible deadly terrorist attack in the eastern Kapisa province, the state-run media outlet Bakhtar News Agency (BNA) reported Monday.

According to BNA, "a terrorist was driving an explosive-laden car in Tagab district of the eastern Kapisa province to target government facilities but fortunately was identified and arrested" by police before reaching his target.ATHENS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A makeshift explosive device went off outside a store operated by Greece's opposition leader's wife in central Athens near the Acropolis hill early Monday.

No injury has been reported but only minor damages to the fashion store that belongs to Mareva Grabowski, New Democracy party leader Kyriakos Mitsotakis' wife.

The perpetrators fled and police were conducting an investigation.

"We are not afraid of them and they are not getting away with this," Mitsotakis tweeted, accusing the government and some media outlets of targeting his wife.

Grabowski has been reported to have large deposits abroad, but no charges of any wrong doing has been brought against her by judicial authorities.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras' press office has issued a press statement that read, "We unequivocally condemn the attack against Ms. Mareva Grabowski Mitsotakis' business."Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 19:35:14|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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An anti-government militant member (R front) hands over his weapon to local officials during a surrender ceremony in Shiberghan city, capital of Jawzjan province, Afghanistan, on Feb. 12, 2018. A total of 13 anti-government militants laid down arms and joined the government-backed peace process in Afghan northern Jawzjan province on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Mohammad Jan Aria)

SHIBERGHAN, Afghanistan, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A total of 13 anti-government militants laid down arms and joined the government-backed peace process in Afghan northern Jawzjan province on Tuesday.

"A 10-member Taliban group and three insurgents affiliated with the Islamic State outfit gave up fighting and handed over their weapons to local authorities here in Shiberghan city today morning," provincial governor Lutfullah Aziz told Xinhua.

The former militants were active in Qush Tipa district over the past nearly one year, the governor said, adding the government would welcome anyone who hand in arms and join the peace process.

Neither Taliban nor Islamic State group has made comments.ISLAMABAD, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Taliban confirmed on Monday that a recent U.S. drone strike has eliminated its senior commander Khan Said Sajna.

Spokesman for the outlawed Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Mohammad Khorasani said in a statement sent to the local media that Sajna, deputy chief of the group, was killed in the U.S. drone attack in North Waziristan tribal region on Feb. 8.

Local media had earlier quoted unnamed Taliban leaders that Sajna came under the drone attack in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province, bordering Pakistan last week. Three of Sajna's guards were also killed in the strike.

Sajna, who was one of top TTP leaders, also headed Taliban militants from the Mehsud tribe in South Waziristan. He had earlier formed his own splinter group because of internal differences, but later rejoined the Taliban's main faction under Maulvi Fazalullah.

Tribal journalists, who are familiar with activities of the TTP across the border, believe the death of Sajna is a major blow to the group, which is blamed for most of the terrorist attacks in Pakistan.

Pakistani security officials insist that majority of the Taliban leaders and fighters have fled to neighboring Afghanistan after the military carried out major offensive in the tribal regions.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 19:45:19|Editor: Xiang Bo

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Shanker Das Bairagi (R), Secretary at Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Yu Hong inaugurate a seminar entitled "Strengthening cooperation to promote the construction of the Belt and Road" in Kathmandu, Nepal, Feb. 12, 2018. The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative has paved the way for new opportunities for Nepal to realize its dream of development and economic prosperity, government officials and experts said here on Monday. (Xinhua/Sunil Sharma)

KATHMANDU, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative has paved the way for new opportunities for Nepal to realize its dream of development and economic prosperity, government officials and experts said here on Monday.

They made such remarks during a one-day seminar entitled "Strengthening cooperation to promote the construction of the Belt and Road" organized by Nepal China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCCI) in Kathmandu.

Stating that the Belt and Road Initiative will bring opportunities in multiple fields including trade, connectivity, physical infrastructure development, tourism and investment, they pointed out the need of concrete mechanism for implementation.

"We have chalked out strategies and plans to implement the initiative but I believe Belt and Road Initiative is a much broader concept. We should have three tracks of approach, including the government one, business to business approach including private sector and knowledge-based approach to gain maximum benefits," Shanker Das Bairagi, Secretary at Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said after inaugurating the event.

Stressing that Nepal is a land-locked and least development country, the foreign secretary said that it needs the cooperation of neighbors, especially China, to upgrade its status to a developing country.

Nepal and China had signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Belt and Road Initiative on May 2017 in Kathmandu. Introduced by China in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative aims to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along the ancient trade routes of Silk Road.

Addressing the function, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Yu Hong said that development of the Belt and Road Initiative needs sincerity and resolution and the vision of all parties.

"China is willing to work closely with Nepal to seize the historical chance to develop concrete cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and bring China-Nepal relations to a new height," Yu said.

On the occasion, she pointed out various points to enhance the cooperation, namely strengthening policy coordination and consolidate mutual trust, expanding connectivity and sharing experience for economic development, promoting the unimpeded trade, deepening the financial integration and constructing the road for innovation, strengthening the people-to-people bond for mutual learning.

Experts were of view that there is a need of sincerity and political commitment for the implementation of the initiative from the Nepali side.

They pointed out that Nepal's government should focus on some basic pre-requisites like connectivity, infrastructure development, reforms in laws, and policy amendments among others.

Dr Rajesh Kazi Shrestha, President of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, "We are eager to welcome investment under the Belt and Road Initiative in various possible sectors like hydropower, agriculture, trade related infrastructure, tourism, herbs and herbal products, natural resources and service sectors."

Nearly 100 experts from different countries, investors, traders and business community members attended the one-day seminar.BAGHDAD, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Monday said that his country will continue support Iraq after the defeat of Islamic State (IS) and is looking forward to participate in rebuilding Iraq, an Iraqi Foreign Ministry statement said.

"I have come to Baghdad to emphasize our continued support to the Iraqi people in various fields and look forward to contributing to the reconstruction of the infrastructure of the Iraqi cities," the statement quoted Le Drian as saying after his meeting with his Iraqi counterpart Ibrahim al-Jaafari.

Le Drian also said that his country is committed to rebuild the University of Mosul, which was badly damaged by the fierce battles against the extremist IS militants, and expressed France's readiness to open new horizons to strengthen bilateral relations, the statement said.

The chief of the French diplomacy revealed that the French President Emmanuel Macron will visit Baghdad during the coming period, it said.

For his part, Jaafari said that Iraq "will not forget the friendly countries that stood by his side and supported him in humanitarian, military and service fields, and we are looking forward to their contribution to the reconstruction of the infrastructure of Iraqi cities," according to the statement.

As for the conference of Iraq's reconstruction held in Kuwait, Jaafari confirmed "we count on the active presence of the international community at the donor conference in Kuwait, and the continuation (of the world) to stand by the Iraqi people," the statement added.

"The partnership between Iraq and France is very important and we must make more efforts to activate common interests and face common risks," Jaafari concluded.

Earlier in the day, Le Drian arrived in Baghdad on an official visit to discuss bilateral relations, including France's participation in the conference of Iraq's reconstruction held in Kuwait, as well as supporting Iraq in its war against terrorism.

Le Drian is also expected to meet with top Iraqi officials, including Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi.

Le Drian visit came as Kuwait's international conference for reconstruction of Iraq, which follows the full defeat of Islamic State group in the country.

The conference has kicked off in Kuwait on Monday and is scheduled to end on Feb. 14, as donor countries and organizations are expected to announce financial contributions at the meeting amid great aspirations by the Iraqis who are eager for a positive outcome that will help rebuild their war-torn country.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 20:00:24|Editor: Lu Hui

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China sends two satellites into orbit on a single carrier rocket for its domestic BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) in Xichang, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Feb. 12, 2018. The twin satellites, which form a network with four previously launched BeiDou-3 satellites, were the fifth and sixth satellites in the BeiDou-3 family. (Xinhua/Liang Keyan)

XICHANG, Sichuan, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- China sent two satellites into orbit on a single carrier rocket for its domestic BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) Monday.

The twin satellites, which form a network with four previously launched BeiDou-3 satellites, were the fifth and sixth satellites in the BeiDou-3 family. They entered orbit more than three hours after the launch from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China's Sichuan Province.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 20:05:28|Editor: Lu Hui

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Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visits the homes of impoverished villagers of the Yi ethnic group who live deep in the Daliang Mountains of Zhaojue County, Sichuan Province in southwest China, Feb. 11, 2018. Xi asked the villagers about their lives and discussed poverty alleviation with local officials and villagers on Sunday. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

ZHAOJUE, Sichuan, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged to "exorcise the evils of ignorance, backwardness and poverty" during his visit to ethnic villages in Sichuan Province in southwest China.

While visiting homes of impoverished villagers of the Yi ethnic group who live deep in the Daliang Mountains of Zhaojue County, Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, called for efforts to win the battle against poverty.

He stressed that not a single ethnic group, family or individual should be left behind in the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects in China, asking local officials to make unremitting and down-to-earth efforts in poverty alleviation.

A Yi ethnic villager told Xi that she used to think that she was infested by some "evils" when she was ill in the past until she was told by village officials that the evils were just bacteria incurred by unsanitary lifestyle.

"Evils did exist in the past. They were the evils of ignorance, backwardness and poverty," Xi said. "Once the people begin to lead a more civilized, healthier and better-off life, the evils are exorcised."

"Would you like to sing?" Xi asked a 10-year-old girl after learning that she was fond of singing.

"Yes," the girl replied and sang. Xi applauded and praised her good singing.

Before leaving the county, Xi, wearing Yi ethnic apparel, shook hands and said goodbye to the villagers.

In their ethnic language, the villagers expressed their thanks, New Year greetings and best wishes to Xi.NAIROBI, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan police on Sunday night arrested nine Ethiopians from a residential house in Nairobi for being in the country illegally.

Nairobi police commander Japheth Koome said on Monday the nine suspects were waiting for their agent to move them to South Africa where they had been promised jobs.

Koome said the Ethiopians were nabbed after security officers had been tipped off on their presence.

Koome said the suspects will be arraigned in court later this week before being deported to their home.

The latest crackdown comes after the police on Feb. 7 arrested 29 Ethiopians after they were found being transported in a lorry in Nairobi.

They were to get shelter in the area before leaving for South Africa where they say they would get better jobs when police arrested them on Wednesday night. The driver of the lorry was also arrested in the operation.

The Kenyan authorities have blamed the vastness of the region for the runaway influx of foreigners into Kenya through Moyale on Kenya-Ethiopia borders and the porous border with Somalia.

Refugee rights organizations and aid agencies have blamed poverty in Africa for the rising cases of human trafficking.

They said that the huge supply of labour both skilled and unskilled makes them vulnerable to criminal syndicates.MOGADISHU, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- More than 30 researchers, academicians and other experts kicked off a three-day meeting in Somalia capital, Mogadishu, on Monday to discuss ways of fostering peace and national reconciliation, organizers said on Monday.

The event which is co-hosted by the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) and the Norwegian and Somali governments will also identify practical steps for promoting peace and reconciliation initiatives at the national and regional levels.

"The experts have been assembled to share their knowledge and their expertise and to figure out how collectively that experience can be geared to the extraordinary challenge Somalia faces," Michael Keating, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Somalia, said in his opening remarks.

UNSOM said in a statement that the Colloquium on Peace and Reconciliation in Somalia, the first of its kind, seeks to generate a body of research that will enhance efforts at conflict prevention and reconciliation, which are widely considered to be a prerequisite for lasting stability in Somalia.

According to the UN mission, a portfolio of expert briefing papers that was prepared by organizations from within and outside Somalia will be discussed to critically examine the dynamics of conflict in the country and explore options for curbing violence.

"Plans are underway to publish the portfolio of papers in book form later this year," it said, noting that participants will also identify practical steps for promoting peace and reconciliation initiatives at the national and regional levels.

Somalia Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation, Abdi Mohamed Sabriye, expressed his government's commitment to achieve a lasting peace and welcomed the contributions of the assembled Somali and international experts to that endeavour.

"We intend to make good use of your efforts and implement the recommendations that will come out of your deliberations over the next two days," Sabriye said.

"Your years of experience and knowledge of conflict resolution and management will be beneficial to Somalia in the effort to reduce and eventually eliminate violence," Sabriye said.

The Somali and international experts and researchers have been divided into working groups that will focus on topics such as Al-Shabaab, national reconciliation, and business and development.

L to R: Sen. Oberweis, Rep. Durkin, Rep. Cross, Gov. Rauner, Topinka, Edgar, Hastert

CHICAGO - The new Jeanne Ives' ad featuring victimized family member Brian McCann recalls Governor Rauner's refusal to hear the family member's concerns about protecting those in the state illegally.

But in all fairness, Governor Rauner's final position of ignoring the families, the Illinois Republican Party platform and signing into law SB 31 shouldn't have been a surprise. There were signals all along that Governor Rauner sided with the Chamber of Commerce's pro-amnesty policy, as far back as April of 2014.

Rauner made public his support for the immigration community at an event hosted by the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition - as did several other IL GOP leaders, including the late Judy Baar Topinka, Governor Jim Edgar, Governor Jim Thompson, then-Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno and House Minority Leader Jim Durkin. Other leaders included former U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert and State Senator Jim Oberweis (R-North Aurora).ISLAMABAD, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani police on Monday have busted a gang for extracting and selling of bone marrow in the guise of blood test from young women belonging to poor families in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, local Urdu TV channels reported.

The crime surfaced after the father of a 17-year-old girl reported it to the police in the country's eastern Hafizabad district. The victim's father revealed that the gang approached the family promising to help them prepare dowry for their daughter and making the financial assistance conditional on the medical check-up.

After this lucrative offer, the father said that they willingly agreed for the check-up, adding that the suspects told him they would take a blood sample of the girl as part of the procedure.

However, he added, when they returned home, his daughter started feeling weak. They then took her to a doctor who told them her bone marrow had been extracted, which impelled him to report the incident.

Taking action on the information, police raided the house and detained several suspects including a woman and recovered syringes and other equipment, while three other accused managed to flee from the scene.

Police said the members of the gang revealed that they have been running this business for a long time and extracted and sold bone marrows from over 92 girls and women without their knowledge. The gang was operating in different cities of Punjab.

The arrested were taken to an unknown location for interrogation, while an investigation into the case is underway.

According to local police, the victims are facing immense health issues while some of them have also suffered disability.

Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of the incident and directed authorities to provide best medical treatment to the women whose bone marrow was extracted.

He has also ordered an inquiry into the incident and sought a report from the district police officer of Hafizabad.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 20:30:38|Editor: Xiang Bo

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- When eating fried chicken, diners now have the opportunity to have a taste of traditional Chinese culture.

An large interactive screen showing how the Lantern Festival was celebrated in Emperor Xianzong's palace in the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) covers the wall beside the cashiers at a KFC restaurant in Qianmen, central Beijing. The restaurant was the first KFC opened in China in 1987.

When a customer scans a QR code beside the screen with their mobile phone, music starts to play and the characters on the screen begin to move. The customer can also access more information on their phone.

The National Museum of China has authorized KFC to use the intellectual property rights (IPR) of its 17 collections, aiming to jointly create "national treasure-themed restaurants."

By obtaining authorization to use the images and develop characters based on them, KFC hopes to enhance customers' cultural experiences in their restaurants through technology.

In the Qianmen restaurant, images of dragon and phoenix crown relics are shown in the form of window displays and wall paintings, with a detailed introduction of the relics attached.

Images of the relics are also painted on the dining tables in the restaurant.

A KFC restaurant in Changsha, the capital of central China's Hunan Province, is themed on a square vessel with four rams from the Shang Dynasty (1600 B.C.-1046 B.C.). A short animated video about the relic tells diners how it was unearthed.

KFC has created the national treasure-themed restaurants in 18 cities where the relics were unearthed. The store layouts include showcases, ceiling lamps, dining tables and chairs designed to reflect a specific relic or collection.

Li Liusan, vice director of the National Museum of China, said the authorization to use the IPRs will help integrate traditional culture with everyday life.

"We know that 85 percent of KFC's customers in China are children and young people," Li told. "We hope they can learn more about Chinese culture while consuming."

Starbucks also promotes Chinese culture with membership cards and mugs featuring traditional patterns implying good luck.

Zhang Huiyu, a research fellow at School of Journalism and Communication at Peking University, said that foreign brands may choose to use traditional Chinese cultural elements for business purposes.

"The relics, together with the Chinese traditional culture, become more present in people's daily lives," he said.GHAZNI, Afghanistan, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- At least three people were killed and 15 others wounded in a road accident in Ghazni province, east of Afghanistan, on Monday, an official said.

"The incident happened in Moqur district of Ghazni province today (Monday) morning, after a passenger bus that was driving on a snowy road suddenly turned turtle, killing three commuters on the spot and injuring 15 others," Arif Noori, spokesman for provincial governor told Xinhua.

Ghazni has been experiencing snowfall and freezing weather over the past two days.

Heavy snowfall has closed the roads of 15 districts leading to Ghazni city, the provincial capital of the mountainous Ghazni province.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 20:35:42|Editor: Liangyu

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Just as the Chinese engage in shopping for the upcoming Lunar New Year, on the other side of the globe the busiest season for Chilean cherry farmers and exporters is starting.

Like many other Latin American products, the juicy fruit has become a favorite of China's rapidly expanding middle class. Today, more than 80 percent of Chile's cherry exports enter the Chinese market, a strong contribution to surging bilateral trade.

In 2017, the total trade volume between China and Latin American countries rose 18.8 percent to nearly 260 billion U.S. dollars. Trade structure is improving as China is importing more agricultural products and manufactured goods from the region.

Meanwhile, China's direct investment in Latin America is estimated at more than 25 billion dollars, accounting for 15 percent of the total foreign direct investment in the region last year.

The solid cooperation and benefits to the Latin American people stand as a perfect defense against the accusation of U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, who said earlier this month that China was "using economic statecraft to pull the region into its orbit."

It also explained why Tillerson's assertion found little support during and after his five-nation trip to Latin America and the Caribbean.

In an article published last week, Argentina's leading newspaper Clarin said the Argentine government had defended its links with China.

"At this moment, China has a very important role with all Latin American countries, both in the commercial and financial and investment fields," it said, quoting Diego Guelar, the Argentine ambassador to China.

Meanwhile, Peru's Foreign Trade and Tourism Minister Eduardo Ferreyros also said that Tillerson's doubts about China were attempts at deflection.

"China is a good trade partner," said Ferreyros. "We're happy with the results of the trade agreement."

While the United States asserts itself as the "steadiest, strongest, and most enduring partner" of Latin American countries, China, on the contrary, has always pursued win-win cooperation based on equality, reciprocity, openness and inclusiveness.

"The development of China-Latin America ties does not target or reject any third party, nor does it affect the interests of third parties in Latin America," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying earlier this month.

Chinese enterprises created 1.8 million jobs in Latin America between 1995 and 2016, according to data from the International Labor Organization. They have invested in sectors like communication, real estate, food and renewable energy to improve local infrastructure and consumption.

"For Latin America, China's development brings opportunities rather than threats," said Mexican Ambassador to China Jose Bernal.

"We have noticed opportunities to strengthen economic and trade cooperation, tap into the Chinese market and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides," Bernal said.

At the second ministerial meeting for the China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States Forum in Chile last month, representatives to the forum passed three outcome documents, including a special declaration on the Belt and Road Initiative.

"It showed a high degree of consensus by Latin American countries on deepening cooperation with China," said Hua, who noted that both sides were facing common tasks of development, and cooperation between China and Latin America was based on mutual interests and needs.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 20:35:43|Editor: Xiang Bo

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- China on Monday congratulated Nepal on the conclusion of its general election, expressing hope that the South Asian country can form a new government smoothly.

"China respects the choice of the Nepali people," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang at a daily press briefing.

"We hope that all parties of Nepal can continue to unite and cooperate so as to smoothly push forward the formation of a new government and realize political stability and economic development," he said.

According to reports, Nepal's Election Commission has confirmed recently that the alliance of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Center) has won a majority in the House of Representatives, or the lower House.

The alliance has also won a majority in the National Assembly election, known as the Upper House of the Federal Parliament, according to reports.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 20:45:45|Editor: Xiang Bo

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The combined brand value of Chinese companies will rise to 911.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2018, nearly ninefold that of 10 years ago, Brand Finance said in a report.

China's share of the global brand value rose to 15 percent this year from 3 percent in 2008, ranking second after the United States, according to the consultancy firm's annual report on the world's most valuable brands.

Twenty-two Chinese brands were listed in the top 100, with Industrial and Commercial Bank of China holding its 2017 rank as the 10th most valuable brand in the world.

The report forecast strong growth in the digital sector in 2018, citing the possible high brand value growth boasted by Chinese technology brands, with Alibaba, Tencent, WeChat, Baidu, JD.com and NetEase going up by an average of 67 percent year on year.

The growth of Chinese brands extends beyond the technology sector as the country continues to narrow the value gap with the United States at an impressive rate, the report said.

China's utility giant State Grid ranked 19th as the biggest new entrant of the year, with a brand value of 40.9 billion dollars.

The fastest-growing brand of 2018 was Wuliangye, as the spirit industry champion rose 184 places to 100th with a brand value of 14.6 billion dollars, up 161 percent year on year.

"Huawei, Ping An, State Grid, Evergrande, ICBC, Yili, Haval, Wuliangye and many others are now being recognized worldwide as quality brands. We expect to see this develop rapidly in more and more sectors," said David Haigh, CEO of Brand Finance.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 20:45:46|Editor: Lu Hui

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Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visits the homes of impoverished villagers of the Yi ethnic group who live deep in the Daliang Mountains of Zhaojue County, Sichuan Province in southwest China, Feb. 11, 2018. Xi asked the villagers about their lives and discussed poverty alleviation with local officials and villagers on Sunday. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the homes of impoverished villagers of the Yi ethnic group in the Daliang Mountains of southwest China's Sichuan Province on Sunday, days before the country celebrates Spring Festival, its most important holiday.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, asked the villagers about their lives and discussed poverty alleviation with local officials and villagers.

For the sixth year in a row, Xi's Lunar New Year inspection tour has taken him to the front lines of China's war against poverty.

He visited northwestern Gansu Province in 2013, northern Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in 2014, northwestern Shaanxi Province in 2015, eastern Jiangxi Province in 2016, and Hebei Province in 2017.

The poor have been Xi's foremost concern. In his 2018 New Year speech, the word "people" appeared most frequently and he emphasized the "well-being" of the Chinese people, showing the president's people-centered governance philosophy.

Chinese leaders have made it a tradition to visit ordinary people across the country ahead of Spring Festival, the most important family holiday in the Chinese calendar.

During one of the Spring Festival inspections, Xi bought festival gifts before visiting old acquaintances in the village where he worked as an "educated youth." During other trips, he went to farmers' barns and kitchens, calculated revenues and expenses with villagers and offered advice on increasing income.

The trips reflect his concerns.

While holding discussions with lawmakers from Sichuan during the annual session of the National People's Congress in March 2017, Xi said that it was a heartbreaking moment when he read about people from a village there who had to climb dangerous mountains every day.

One year later, he went to the mountainous area, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, home to China's largest Yi community. With a distinct language and culture, the Yi minorities are among the poorest in China.

"To lead the people to a better life is our goal. Not a single ethnic group, family or person should be left behind in the process of finishing the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects," Xi told villagers in Liangshan.

China is striving to become a "moderately prosperous society in all respects" by 2020, just before the centennial anniversary of the founding of the CPC.

That means all rural residents living below the current poverty line should be lifted out of poverty by 2020. It will be the first time in China's thousands of years of history that extreme poverty is eliminated.

"It is our solemn promise," Xi said in his 2018 New Year address.

The number of people living in poverty in rural areas was reduced by over 10 million in 2017.

Xi has listed "committing to a people-centered approach" as one of the fundamental principles in his report delivered at the 19th CPC National Congress in October 2017.

When he presented the new CPC central leadership to the press on Oct. 25, 2017, Xi said that the Party must remain committed to a people-centered philosophy of development and make steady progress toward enhancing the people's sense of fulfillment and realizing common prosperity for everyone.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 20:50:49|Editor: Xiang Bo

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KIEV, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The number of Chinese visitors to Ukraine increased by 51.4 percent last year, as the two countries are enjoying close business ties and people-to-people exchanges, according to official statistics released here on Monday.

A total of 31,114 Chinese citizens visited Ukraine last year, according to a report released by Ukraine's State Statistics Service.

Most of them came to Ukraine for business, tourism or private purposes, the report said.

Ukraine introduced a visa-on-arrival policy for Chinese citizens at Kiev Boryspil Airport and the airport of the country's southern Black Sea resort of Odessa in June 2016.

Chinese citizens can obtain 15-day entry visa if they have documents confirming the business or tourist purpose of the visit.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 21:00:56|Editor: Xiang Bo

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Commerce will impose anti-dumping measures on imported styrene monomer by requiring importers to pay a cash deposit on purchase.

The Chinese mainland's styrene monomer industry has been "substantially" damaged by the dumping of styrene monomer from the Republic of Korea and the United States, as well as from the island of Taiwan, the ministry said in its preliminary ruling following an investigation launched last year.

Starting on Tuesday, importers of the product from the above areas must place deposits with Chinese customs based on dumping margins of between 5 percent and 10.7 percent.

Styrene monomer, also called phenylethylene, is widely used to make polystyrene, which in turn is used to make plastics and foam containers.

The ministry launched investigations into the product in June 2017 after receiving complaints from domestic companies.ARUSHA, Tanzania, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A 60-year-old woman was trampled to death by wild elephants in western Tanzania's district of Kalambo, local leaders said on Monday.

Alfred Mpandasharo, a ward councilor in the district said that the incident happened on Monday at around 10 am (local time) when the victim, identified as Maria Sekaye of Ilambila village, was coming back from her maize farm.

He said that the woman met with a group of elephants believed to have come from Lwafi Game Reserve located along the Tanzania-Zambia road.

Mpandasharo said that the victim went to attend to her farm which was destroyed by elephants on the previous day.

"And when she was coming back home she met with the elephants, which seemed to be angry after being chased by young men in the village," he said, adding that the young men were trying to chase the large mammals out of the village for the safety of their crops.

"So, when they met with the victim, the elephants attacked her and trampled her to death," the local leader added.

Julieth Binyura, Kalambo District Commissioner confirmed the incident, warning people in the area to stop from chasing elephants whenever they storm into their areas, as the move might put them at risk.

"People shouldn't dare to scare wild animals like elephants...they should wait for experts to do so," Binyura said, revealing that the affected village is among the villages which are located on the wildlife corridors, areas of habitat connecting wildlife populations separated by human activities or structures.

"It has been a common thing for villages of Sundu, Mkowe, Ilambila, and Katete to be attacked by elephants because they are located in the wildlife corridors whereby wild animals use it when they migrate to Zambia and later come back to Lwafi game reserve," she said.

Binyura further discouraged farmers to farm in wildlife corridors as it is too dangerous because wild animals are completely unexpected.How appropriate it was that on the recent 50th Anniversary celebration of the Gathering of Eagles held in St. Louis, Missouri from January 18-20, that a special Phyllis Schlafly Saint Louis Tour was offered to those who wished to participate. Ed Martin is the President of the Eagle Forum Education & Legal Defense Fund and Phyllis Schlafly Eagles, having been nominated by Phyllis Schlafly to succeed her. The Phyllis Schlafly Center is located at 7800 Bonhomme Ave in St. Louis, MO.

The legacy of Phyllis Schlafly is so important, because she had to many lessons to teach us. Early on she wrote A Choice Not an Echo, which revealed how the GOP "kingmakers," were using every trick in the book to dictate the choice of a presidential candidate. An Updated and Expanded 50th Anniversary Edition Hardcover of A Choice Not an Echo, was published by Phyllis Schlafly on November 10, 2014, Ron Paul (Foreword). It is thought that without Schlafly, without her book, and without Goldwater's candidacy which she supported, it is unlikely that Ronald Reagan would ever have been elected president. A wonderful bio of Phyllis Schlafly, The Sweetheart of the Silent Majority, was written by Chicago writer Carol Feisenthal. Although published in 1981, it traces, with the full cooperation of Phyllis Schlafly, the life of Phyllis from a poor, devoutly Catholic to a wealthy marriage and the political activism that brought her fame and notoriety.

After breakfast on the second day of The Gathering of Eagles, forty participants met in the lobby of the Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel, the site of the event, to board a chartered bus to begin the tour arranged by Gwen Kelley, the able and long-time capable librarian for the Eagle Forum Education & Legal Defense Fund. The tour highlighted sites and places Phyllis knew and loved in the city she was born and grew up in.

Phyllis' legacy and St. Louis

I was surprised to learn about the rich history of St. Louis and all that it has to offer it citizens and visitors, as related by the bus tour guide between tour stops. St. Louis, site of 1904 World's Fair Site, also known as the Louisiana Purchase Exhibition). Little left of 1904 World's Fair. History museum built from money left over from the world's fair; St. Louis ties to Louisiana Purchase; St. Louis named after a King of France born over 800 years ago; Great fire down by the Mississippi when a boat caught on fire and destroyed all the wooden structures. Brick buildings were then build with clay found in the area to make handmade bricks in black and orange; Missouri is the only state to have two Federal Reserve Banks (Kansas City and St. Louis); St. Louis center for manufacturing with third busiest inland port in nation; St. Louis the 4th largest city in nation in 1904 - boom time experienced during Civil war; No admission fees to any major museums, although there are smaller, private museums that charge admission. Years ago citizens voted for a tax to make this possible. Wanted the citizens of St. Louis to have access to good art and music. Now free even for visitors, although St. Louis City must help cover the cost of providing free admission. The St. Louis Municipal opera sets aside some free seats in the back of the auditorium on a first come first serve basis.

Places of Importance to Phyliis in St. Louis

Driveby of Phyllis Schlafly's apartment at 4961 McPherson to Cathedral Basilica

Phyllis lived with her parents and her five-year younger sister, Odile, at 4961 McPherson Street from age 10 to age 25, until her marriage in 1949. It was a two-bedroom apartment. After the ceremony, family and friends gathered at the Stewart's apartment for refreshments. Earlier, a sit-down breakfast was held upstairs in a neighbor's apartment.





Tour of Cathedral Basilica

The construction of the Cathedral was begun in 1907 and is built in the Byzantine tradition with 83,000 square feet of mosaic art created by twenty artists, installed over a period of seventy-five years.

Phyllis' first outing when coming home from the hospital (August 15, 1924) was to the Cathedral to be baptized, Sept. 6, 1924. Her Marriage took place on Thursday, October 20, 1949, at noon in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, St. Louis Cathedral as a 25-year-old bride. The gold mosaic alter was ablaze with candles and white chrysanthemums and snapdragons.

The Blessed Sacrament Chapel has Italian-style mosaic work installed by Tiffany and Company. All the gold that can be seen is real gold. The Tiffany blood red is impossible to duplicate because one main ingredient was purposely omitted to make impossible its duplication.

The main sanctuary of the Cathedral Basilica was where Phyllis' funeral tribute was held, attended by President Trump.

Depart Cathedral Basilica for Gateway Arch for brief photo stop

The St. Louis Arch is an iconic monument 630 feet high symbolizing the city's role as early settlers pioneered westward years ago.

The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial was established in 1954, specifically to commemorate a crucial contribution to the United States growth from Atlantic to Pacific made possible by the Louisiana Purchase. The prime player in the Louisiana Purchase was Thomas Jefferson!

During the 2017 controversies over Confederate monuments, President Trump sent out a tweet with the following question: whos next, Washington, Jefferson? Not long afterwards, on December 21, 2017, the United States Senate, which operates under rules evolved from A Manual of Parliamentary Practice for the Use of the Senate of the United States by Thomas Jefferson, took action to erase part of Jeffersons legacy. The bi-partisan bill, sponsored by Roy Blunt (R-Missouri) and co-sponsored by Claire McCaskill (D-Missouri), seeks to remove Jeffersons name from The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial in St. Louis and rename it the nondescript, Gateway Arch National Park

The Louisiana Purchase was likely the greatest land deal throughout human history. The United States acquired 828,000 square miles for less than three cents an acre. Perhaps the Senators should review why there is a memorial in St. Louis, or even why Missouri is part of the United States.

As reported in the Belleville News-Democrat on February 8, 2018: Bill that would officially rename the Arch heads to President Trump.



Depart the Gateway Arch for Saint Louis Art Museum

Provided was a customized docent-led tour at the Saint Louis Art Museum after first seeing the library where Dadie Stewart, mother of Phyllis, worked as head librarian from 1938 to 1962. During her tenure she indexed all its books. The library opened with about 5,000 volumes and had 10,000 when she retired. Now named The Richardson Memorial Library, it is open for community research. It holds an extensive collection of books, periodicals, auction catalogues, and archival resources to support research of the Museum's permanent collection and special exhibitions. The Library is located on the third floor of the South Building of the Art Museum.

Depart the Saint Louis Art Museum for the hotel, drive by Washington University on route to the hotel.

Unlike Phillis's mother, Dadie, Phyllis didn't have the good fortune to have a smooth ride to a great education unburdened by financial concerns, after her father lost his job in1930 from Westinghouse due to the depression. Dadie had been educated at a Sacred Hearts convent and gone on to graduate from Washington University with a B.A. and a degree in Library Science. She wanted Phyllis also to a Sacred Hearts education, and by pinching pennies she was able to send Phyllis to a Sacred Hearts school in St. Louis known as City House. No matter how much Dadie saved, City House tuition was an unreachable as membership in a country club. Phyllis, however, was able to attend City House in high school. In a deal worked out by the nuns. After working 5 days and Sunday afternoons at her library job she worked the seventh day at City House to pay off Phyllis's tuition.

Having won a 4-year scholarship to Maryville College run by the same order of nuns that ran City House, Phyllis attended Maryville for one year until she decided that it just wasn't everything she wanted out of college. For Phyllis to be able to attend Washington University in St. Louis, she had to work full-time and go to school full-time. Phyllis got a job in a St. Louis Ordinance Plant, firing rifles and machine guns to test the ammunition the plant manufactured. In spite of her rigorous schedule, Phyllis managed to graduate from Washington University with full honors early with a major in political science having turned 20 only two weeks before her graduation. Phyllis then went on to earn her master's in government from Radcliffe (associated with Harvard) possible because the fellowship committee had awarded her a Whitney fellowship of five hundred dollars for two terms, which added to money she's saved from the ammunition plant job, would be enough to finance the year a Radcliffe. Years later, in1978, Phyllis earned a J.D. from Washington University Law School. What prompted Phyllis to do so? When questioned by those who opposed the ERA how she could feel qualified to do so without a law degree, this was all Phyllis needed for her to obtain one!

Arrive back at the Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel

On the schedule for the afternoon was a Media training Workshop, with an opportunity to sign up to participate in a Media Training Recording Booth session, after which participants were critiqued as to how they could improve their media image to advance the effectiveness of their messages. Another highlight of the day was the dinner Keynote address given by James O'Keefe of Project Veritas, at which his new book, American Pravda: My Fight for Truth in the Era of Fake News, was discussed with free copies distributed.MOSCOW, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said Monday that it has detained a Ukrainian citizen suspected of conducting espionage in Crimea.

The detainee, identified as Konstantin Davydenko, is suspected of "purposefully collecting and transmitting to the special services of Ukraine information on the activities of units of the Russian National Guard and employees of the FSB, and the leak could damage the security of the state," an FSB statement said.

The FSB has initiated criminal proceedings against the detainee for espionage, and an investigation is underway, it said.

Crimea, formerly part of Ukraine, was absorbed into Russia in March 2014 following a local referendum, which was rejected by Ukraine and its allies.

Since then, the FSB has published several reports on the detention of suspected Ukrainian spies or saboteurs in Crimea, but Ukraine has consistently denied such acts.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 21:21:05|Editor: Xiang Bo

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MANILA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Officials from China and the Philippines formally broke ground on Monday on the second Chinese-financed drug rehabilitation center in Agusan Del Sur Province in the southern Philippines.

Philippine Undersecretary of the Department of Health Roger Tong An and Chinese Embassy's Economic and Commercial Counselor Jin Yuan attended the groundbreaking ceremony.

Representing the Philippine government, An lauded the project and thanked China for its help in the government's relentless fight against illicit drugs.

An expressed hope that the facility will be finished soon so it can be used by the local residents.

In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said the drug rehabilitation center, which has a floor area of 6,750 square meters, can accommodate approximately 150 beds.

On Jan. 12, Chinese and Philippine officials also held a groundbreaking ceremony for a drug rehabilitation center in Sarangani province, also in the southern Philippines.

Economic and Commercial Counselor Jin said the building of the drug rehabilitation centers showed that the new partnership between Beijing and Manila is further strengthening.

Jin said the development of the China-Philippines relationship will eventually benefit people from both countries.

The drug rehabilitation center project in Agusan del Sur is expected to be completed in 21 months.

In October 2016, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte visited Beijing and reached an agreement with China on the building of drug rehabilitation centers in the Philippines. The two sides later announced that China will help build two drug rehabilitation centers in Sarangani and Agusan del Sur, both in the southern Philippines.

The Philippine government under Duterte launched the anti-drug campaign when he assumed the presidency on June 30, 2016.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 21:31:09|Editor: Lifang

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KUWAIT CITY, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Reconstruction in Iraq requires 88.2 billion U.S. dollars, said Iraqi Planning Minister Salman Al Jumaili on Monday.

In his speech at the opening ceremony of the Kuwait International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq (KICRI), the Iraqi minister said his country needs 88.2 billion dollars to rebuild what has been destroyed by conflicts and the latest war against Daesh (IS).

According to a report provided at the conference by the minister, the total damage in Iraq by anti-IS military operations amounted to 45.7 billion dollars, the most affected sectors in this country by the war against IS include housing sector, power, industry and commerce, oil and gas and transport.

The Director General of the Iraqi Ministry of Planning Qusay Abdulfattah said at the conference that the reconstruction of Iraq requires 22 billion dollars urgently in the short term, and 66 billion dollars in the medium term.

The three-day KICRI kicked off Monday in Kuwait City, which brought together several economic powers, as well as regional and international organizations, to make contributions to rebuilding Iraq after many years of war and conflict that ripped through various parts of the country.Rashid Khalikov, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Partnerships with the Middle East and Central Asia, attends a presentation during the Kuwait International Conference for Reconstruction of Iraq on February 12, 2018, in Kuwait City. (AFP Photo)

KUWAIT CITY, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Reconstruction in Iraq requires 88.2 billion U.S. dollars, said Iraqi Planning Minister Salman Al Jumaili on Monday.

In his speech at the opening ceremony of the Kuwait International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq (KICRI), the Iraqi minister said his country needs 88.2 billion dollars to rebuild what has been destroyed by conflicts and the latest war against Daesh (IS).

According to a report provided at the conference by the minister, the total damage in Iraq by anti-IS military operations amounted to 45.7 billion dollars, the most affected sectors in this country by the war against IS include housing sector, power, industry and commerce, oil and gas and transport.

The Director General of the Iraqi Ministry of Planning Qusay Abdulfattah said at the conference that the reconstruction of Iraq requires 22 billion dollars urgently in the short term, and 66 billion dollars in the medium term.

The three-day KICRI kicked off Monday in Kuwait City, which brought together several economic powers, as well as regional and international organizations, to make contributions to rebuilding Iraq after many years of war and conflict that ripped through various parts of the country.NEW YORK, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- America's National Broadcasting Company (NBC) has apologized for its analyst's remarks on South Korea's colonial history made during the live broadcasting of PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games opening ceremony.

"(Japan was) a country which occupied Korea from 1910 to 1945. But every Korean will tell you that Japan is a cultural and technical and economic example that has been so important to their own transformation," the analyst, Joshua Cooper Ramo, said Friday when introducing Japan's Olympic team.

Noting that Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was in attendance at the opening ceremony, Ramo was trying to stress the importance of Abe's visit, the NBC reported.

Ramo's comment was "defending Japanese imperialism" in the eyes of some South Koreans, who organized a quick online petition demanding apology.

"We believe that staying silent is not an appropriate response to such ignorant, insensitive, and harmful information that defies the very spirit of peace, harmony, and human dignity of the Olympics," the online petition said.

The NBC delivered an on-air apology on Saturday, briefly saying that "we understand the Korean people were insulted by these comments and we apologize."

As the company said in a statement on Sunday that the PyeongChang 2018 Organizing Committee accepted its written apology, petitioners called for "a more specific and genuine apology."

Having collected the signatures of more than 14,500 supporters, the petition was updated with a new announcement on Monday, saying Ramo's words not only affected the feelings of Korean people.

"The NBC should apologize, instead, to all viewers who deserve honest journalism, accountability, and common sense history," the petition read.

U.S. media reported that Ramo's assignment ended with the opening ceremony, while some said Ramo could be fired for the incident.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 21:51:14|Editor: Yamei

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Chinese President Xi Jinping (front), also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a satellite launch site at a military base in southwest China's Sichuan Province, Feb. 10, 2018. Xi visited the military base on Saturday ahead of the Spring Festival, which falls on Feb. 16 this year. He extended festival greetings to all officers and soldiers of the People's Liberation Army and the armed police force, and all militia and reserve personnel. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

CHENGDU, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping visited a satellite launch site in southwest China's Sichuan Province Saturday, ahead of the launch of BeiDou-3 satellites.

Two BeiDou-3 satellites were sent into space Monday.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, inspected the preparation work for the launch while visiting the site's command center.

He talked with the scientists and technicians, asking them about their research, work and lives.

They were told to keep pursuing precision and perfection to ensure the success of the launch.

Xi also extended festival greetings to all officers and soldiers of the People's Liberation Army and the armed police force, and all militia and reserve personnel.

The Spring Festival, or Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Feb. 16 this year.

Through video telephone, Xi talked with grassroots soldiers stationed at an island in the Xisha area and asked them what they had prepared to celebrate the upcoming Spring Festival.

Xi also met with the base's senior officers and asked them to work with more commitment and be steadfast in building China's strength in aerospace to create more "Chinese miracles."

He stressed military training under combat conditions to build the country's military into a world-class one and improve the country's strength in aerospace.

Noting that technology was a core combat capability, Xi called for intensified work to make breakthroughs in core and key technologies so that China could take the initiative in international competition.

He also emphasized the political loyalty of the armed forces.

Comprehensive and strict guidance and management of the armed forces should be conducted to ensure the absolute loyalty, purity and reliability of the forces, he said.CAIRO, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian army announced on Monday the killing of twelve militants in the country's North Sinai on the fourth day of a comprehensive anti-terror military operation.

In a statement, Egypt's army spokesperson Tamer al-Refaay said 92 other suspects were arrested and 60 targets used by militants were destroyed during Monday's operations.

Meanwhile, the spokesman said the army destroyed and seized 20 4x4 vehicles, 27 motorbikes, 30 hideouts and ammunition storehouses.

Egypt launched a nationwide counterterrorism operation on Friday to eliminate terrorism. The operation would cover large parts of Sinai, Nile Delta, the Western Desert, and borders with Libya.

The operation was launched as part of the efforts to reach the three-month deadline set by President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi to eliminate terrorism after the mosque attack that killed 310 people in the northern Sinai city of Arish in November, 2017.

On Sunday, the army said its forces killed 16 militants and arrested four others also in Sinai.

Egypt's army has been struggling to uproot the strongholds of militants, now belonging to the Islamic State branch in Sinai, since the ouster of the Islamist leader Mohamed Morsi, in response to mass protests against his rule in 2013.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 21:56:16|Editor: Xiang Bo

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese financial news provider Caixin Media said Monday its overseas arm, Caixin Global, will team up with Citic Capital to buy the international business information unit of Britain's Euromoney for 180.5 million U.S. dollars.

The Chinese investors are buying Global Market Intelligence Division (GMID), a Hong Kong-based company that provides global financial information and data in over 15 languages.

Caixin Global said it will leverage the resources of GMID to enhance its own products for the China market, while also working to expand the Hong Kong company's product offerings from a current focus on desktop to also include more mobile-oriented devices.

The purchase is expected to be completed by the end of April this year.

"We will join forces together with GMID to provide indispensable data and insight for overseas and domestic financial industry professionals and stakeholders," said Hu Shuli, Publisher of Caixin Media.

"I am tremendously excited about the opportunities that this transaction will afford to our business, customers and staff," said Aloisio Parente, CEO of GMID.Turkish soldiers carry the coffin of Koray Karaca, a Turkish soldier who was killed in cross-border clashes with Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) forces in Afrin, Syria, during a funeral ceremony in Istanbul on February 11, 2018.

On January 20, Turkey launched a military operation against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) militia in the Afrin region, backing Syrian rebels with air strikes and ground troops. (AFP Photo)

ISTANBUL, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Relations between Turkey and the United States have deteriorated now to a point of either being fixed or breaking down completely, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu cautioned on Monday.

Declaring bilateral ties at a critical point, the top Turkish envoy said "we will either fix the ties or they will break down completely."

Speaking to the press in Istanbul following a meeting with African states, he said Washington has made several mistakes in handling its relationship with Ankara, including giving support to the Kurdish militia in Syria known as the People's Protection Units (YPG).

Turkish troops launched an air and ground offensive against YPG-held Afrin in northwestern Syria on Jan. 20, as Ankara treats the Kurdish militants as terrorists associated with the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party.

Turkey has threatened to target Manbij, another Syrian town held by the YPG, in its next move, but the United States has refused to withdraw its troops from the town as demanded by Ankara, heightening the risk of a direct confrontation between the NATO allies.

"It is natural that we lost our trust in the U.S.," Cavusoglu said, stressing that Ankara does not want to hear any more empty promises from its ally but rather wants to see concrete steps.

Turkish president's security and foreign policy adviser Ibrahim Kalin met with U.S. National Security Adviser Herbert Raymond McMaster in Istanbul over the weekend, while foreign and defense ministers of the two countries are scheduled to meet respectively in Ankara and Brussels in the coming days.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 22:01:17|Editor: Xiang Bo

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JUBA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese-built schools have improved the quality of education for South Sudanese students, a government official said Monday.

Deng Deng Hoc, General Education Minister said China has constructed three schools in South Sudan and they have improved learning conditions for students.

He added that Yapa, Jubek Model and China Friendship Secondary schools were all constructed using Chinese funds.

"We appreciate the support of the people and government of China. This facility is a modern secondary school," the minister said during a ceremony to kick off secondary school leaving examinations at the China-aided Jubek Model secondary in Juba.

"This is a kind of school we really want to have in South Sudan and we are very grateful to the Chinese government and people for this support," Hoc added.

He particularly described Jubek Model secondary, located in the suburb of Gudele, west of Juba as a modern learning institution that will impact the lives of the people of South Sudan.

Inaugurated in January 2017, the 2,200-square-meter facility comprises of 16 class rooms that accommodate about 1,000 students, with running water and 24-hour solar power.

Hoc revealed that the government is also seeking to obtain a loan from the Chinese government for construction of more schools across the country.

"This is a big support from the Chinese government. They are our strategic allies and our relationship with them is already strong and it is getting stronger," Hoc said.ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopia Federal Attorney General announced on Monday it has dropped charges against prominent Oromo opposition figure Bekele Gerba who is in prison on terrorism charges, reported state affiliated media outlet Radio Fana.

Six other suspects had also their terrorism charges dropped, it reported.

Gerba, deputy head of the Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC), has been in jail for more than two years over terrorism charges relating to allegations of instigating unrest in Ethiopia's largest regional state Oromia.

OFC is the main opposition party to the ruling coalition Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) in the restive central Oromia regional state.

It isn't clear whether the discontinuation of charges would lead to the immediate release of Gerba, as he has recently been sentenced to one-year imprisonment for contempt of court by the Ethiopian Federal High Court.

As the Attorney General does not have the authority to free Gerba from his sentence for contempt of court, it is expected his case will be referred to the Office of the Ethiopia President Mulatu Teshome for pardon.

The release of prominent opposition figures was part of slogans protesters used to demand political and economic change in Ethiopia.

The unrest in 2016 led to the deaths of hundreds and was dubbed by analysts as the gravest challenge the ruling coalition Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front faced in 25 years.

The unrest involving parts of the three most populous regions Amhara, Oromia and Southern regional states led to an imposition of martial law in October 2016 which was only lifted in August 2017.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 22:11:20|Editor: Xiang Bo

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Supreme People's Court (SPC) on Monday retried the criminal case of Zhang Wenzhong, a former retail company chairman.

Zhang Wenzhong, former chairman of Wumei Holdings, parent of Chinese retail chain Wumart Stores, was prosecuted in 2007 by the Municipal People's Procuratorate of Hengshui in north China's Hebei Province for fraud, bribery and embezzlement.

Zhang Wenzhong was fined and sentenced to 12 years in prison for the charges in a final ruling by Hebei Higher People's Court in 2009.

Zhang Wenzhong first petitioned Hebei Higher People's Court and the SPC. In December 2017, the SPC decided to retry the case.

During the trial, Zhang Wenzhong's attorney presented new evidence and asked a witness to attend the court proceedings, and the prosecutors cross-examined the defendants.

The two sides also debated whether acts by the defendants, including Zhang Wenzhong, Zhang Weichun and Wumart Stores, constituted crimes.

The defendants and the representative of Wumei Holdings made the final statements. The collegiate bench will announce the sentence later.

The families of the defendants, representatives of employees of Wumei Holdings, representatives of relevant institutions, as well as members of the public attended the hearing.WINDHOEK, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Air Namibia workers held a prayer session Monday seeking divine help with the financial crisis the airline is facing.

In a statement written by Air Namibia acting managing director Mandy Samson, all workers who were not on duty were asked to attend the prayer session at the airline's Windhoek offices.

"We are all aware of the challenges currently facing the National Carrier of the Republic of Namibia, and it will indeed be appreciated if we can join in prayer and through our common faith believe that Air Namibia which has existed in various forms for very many years will continue its operations," Samson wrote.

The state-owned airline has not made a profit in many years and relies on bailouts from the government.

The government has bailed out Air Namibia to the tune of 4 billion Namibian dollars (334 million U.S. dollars) in the last seven years.

The prayer session came a few days after President Hage Geingob warned the airline management to shape up or ship out.

In an interview with the Namibia Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) on Jan. 30, 2018, Geingob said it was becoming unsustainable to bail out and protect the airline in a sector that has grown so competitive.

Currently, Air Namibia is competing against Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airways, South African Airways, KLM, Condor Flugdienst, Eurowings, British Airways and TAAG Angola Airlines.

Air Namibia could face stiffer competition if the government ratifies the African Union's Single Air Transport Market (SAATM) launched in January 2018 in Addis Ababa as part of the Yamoussoukro Decision of 1999.

The SAATM is expected to enhance connectivity between African nations without stopovers somewhere in Europe or the Middle East as well as low flight ticket prices.

On Feb. 1, 2018, Namibia's Deputy Permanent Secretary of Works and Transport, Cedric Limbo told NBC that consultations were being held to prepare Namibia to join the African Union's Single Air Transport Market.PRETORIA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The march to the Union Buildings, South Africa presidential offices, on Monday to remove President Jacob Zuma flopped with the organizers alleging threats by armed people.

Some members of the African National Congress (ANC) had planned to march to the Union Buildings on Monday and camp there until Zuma resigns. The convener of #ZumaMustGo, Lazarus Maumela told the media in Pretoria on Monday that unknown people intimidated those who wanted to protest with guns.

"We saw the firearms. It was not just one firearm. We know that it was a rented group. They were sent," Maumela said.

The ANC Youth League on Monday issued a statement calling all their members to dissociate themselves with the group led by Maumela.

The ANC youth League said, "No one should seek glory by organizing shut down marches under the banner of the ANC and trying to put pressure to the ANC national executive council (NEC) to act hastily for his / her interest. All ANC activities are sanctioned by the ANC leadership in various structures not charlatans."

It stated that their party elected the leaders who can solve the ANC problems internally. They called for the ANC members to allow the party leaders to address the issues affecting the party. The ANC leaders have been negotiating with Zuma for him to resign.

"Those who are seeking fame by organized press conferences to divide the movement must be exposed and be disciplined. The ANC must decisively deal with these charlatans who seek to deepen the division in the movement," it said.

Tshwane municipality on Sunday night released a statement that the march had not been sanctioned by them because they could not meet certain conditions. They called the march illegal.

Some ANC members who were part of the group marching to oust Zuma have apologized for their actions and asked for forgiveness from the party.NAIROBI, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Kenya is seeking to woo more airlines to fly into the country in order to boost the tourism sector, a senior government official said on Monday.

Najib Balala, Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, told a tourism forum in Nairobi that the tourism sector is under-performing due to limited aviation capacity in Kenya.

"We are pushing for the complete opening up of skies so that more airlines can bring more tourists into the country. We are going to encourage as many air operators to establish in Kenya so long as they meet civil aviation standards," Balala said during the opening of a two-day National Tourism Stakeholder Forum to discuss the transformative journey for the tourism sector.

Balala said that a number of airlines in Africa, Middle East and Europe have been identified and will be approached to begin flying into Kenya.

Government statistics indicate that approximately 1.47 million international visitors came to Kenya in 2017 against a target of three million visitors.

Balala said that about ten airlines operate in Kenya with different number of frequencies. "We want to increase the number to over 20 so that we have more inbound travelers," he added.

He said the country's tourism sector is yet to reach its full potential despite abundant wildlife and beach destinations.

Balala said that Kenya's tourism sector must adapt and innovate in line with global trends in order to increase its contribution to Kenya's economy in terms of creation of more employment and income opportunities.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 22:26:30|Editor: Lu Hui

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DAMASCUS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Syria's Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad said the downing of the Israeli warplane indicates Syria's determination to defeat its enemies, the Iranian-run Alalam News Channel said Monday.

Mekdad made the remarks during a reception at the Iranian embassy, during which he threatened that "anyone who dare to target Syria will meet the same destiny of the Israeli warplane."

"The achievement of the Syrian army in downing the Israeli warplane is an indication of the return of Syria and its determination to defeat its enemies," Mekdad said, the first official remarks from government officials in Syria about shooting down the Israeli warplane.

Meanwhile, Mekdad hailed Iran's role in supporting Syria in the face of foreign aggression and in the face of the U.S. scheme in the region.

At dawn Saturday, the Syrian air defenses fired anti-aircraft missiles against Israeli airstrikes which targeted an airbase in the central province of Homs on the pretext that an Iranian drone was sent from the base and infiltrated the Israeli airspace.

Israeli media said an Israeli F-16 was hit and crashed in northern Israel by the Syrian anti-aircraft missiles.

The downing of an Israeli warplane has created a precedent during Syria's nearly seven-year-long war, as the Syrian government always responded to Israel's military attacks with condemnation and retaliation vows.

The incident marked the first time that an Israeli warplane has been shot down since the downing of an Israeli F-14 in 1986 over Lebanon.Local students sit for the university entry examinations at the China-aided Jubek Model Secondary School in Juba, capital of South Sudan, Feb. 12, 2018. (Xinhua/Gale Julius)

JUBA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese-built schools have improved the quality of education for South Sudanese students, a government official said Monday.

Deng Deng Hoc, General Education Minister, said China has constructed three schools in South Sudan and they have improved learning conditions for students.

He added that Yapa, Jubek Model and China Friendship Secondary schools were all constructed using Chinese funds.

"We appreciate the support of the people and government of China. This facility is a modern secondary school," the minister said during a ceremony to kick off secondary school leaving examinations at the China-aided Jubek Model secondary in Juba.

"This is a kind of school we really want to have in South Sudan and we are very grateful to the Chinese government and people for this support," Hoc added.

He particularly described Jubek Model secondary, located in the suburb of Gudele, west of Juba as a modern learning institution that will impact the lives of the people of South Sudan.

Inaugurated in January 2017, the 2,200-square-meter facility comprises of 16 class rooms that accommodate about 1,000 students, with running water and 24-hour solar power.

Hoc revealed that the government is also seeking to obtain a loan from the Chinese government for construction of more schools across the country.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 22:31:31|Editor: yan

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NAIROBI, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- An international charity warned on Monday that 4.7 million children across East Africa risk dropping out of school this year due to malnutrition arising from displacement sparked by drought and conflict.

David Wright, Regional Director for Save the Children in East and Southern Africa, told journalists in Nairobi that about 90,000 children drop out of school weekly in Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia and South Sudan, which translates to 12,000 children abandoning studies each day.

"No child should miss out on their right to education, so it is especially crucial to keep schools open during drought because they offer a perfect opportunity for food, water and vaccines to enable them learn, be safe and realize their dreams," Wright told journalists in Nairobi.

"We urgently appeal for funding to help keep children in school and take schooling to the children who have already been forced to drop out," he said during the release of the report in Nairobi.

Wright said this year calls for increased humanitarian assistance in order to meet the persistent and diverse needs of children affected by drought for their survival, learning and protection.

He drew attention to donors, governments and all stakeholders to address food insecurity and tackle the growing nutritional crisis and ensure children are able to survive and thrive.

"Children should receive uninterrupted quality learning even in crisis and protected from all forms of violence and exploitation," Wright said.

Save the Children Country Director for Kenya, Wang Le, said only three out of ten children are enrolled in school in the drought-prone areas, adding that schools close due to lack of water and the few children enrolled dropping out to migrate with their families in search of the commodity and pasture.

Her Somalia counterpart, Timothy Bishop, stated already three million children are already out of school, with 1.2 million of them suffering from malnutrition.

Ekin Ogutogullari, Country Director for Ethiopia said over 600 schools have closed since February 2017 because of drought, pushing close to 400,000 children out of lessons, which translates to about 50 schools shutting down a month.

Deirdre Keogh, who oversees South Sudan operations, noted that malnutrition has soured, especially among children in Africa's youngest nation where more than 1.1 million children under five years are forecast to be malnourished in 2018, double the number from the same time last year and added that more children than ever are out of school.

Save the Children's global report on protecting children in conflict, conducted by the Peace Research Institute, will be launched on Feb. 15 ahead of the Munich Security Conference.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 22:36:31|Editor: yan

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THE HAGUE, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Halbe Zijlstra admitted in an interview with Dutch newspaper de Volkskrant published on Monday that he lied about a meeting with the Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2006.

"It was not wise to do it," Zijlstra says to de Volkskrant, adding "I should have done it differently."

Zijlstra has earlier claimed that he was present at a meeting with the Russian president in Putin's country house in 2006, where the president talked about a "Great Russia".

According to Zijlstra, he was tucked away in the back of the room when he heard Putin's answer to the question of what he meant with "Great Russia" as "that is Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic States, and Kazakhstan was nice to have as well."

The Dutch foreign minister now admitted that he wasn't there, and claimed that he made the fake claim in order to protect his source. "The implications are heavy, so I pulled the story to myself, to make sure that the person who was there himself did not become the revealing factor, because it could also imply implications for him or his company."

Despite the admission of lying about his presence, Zijlstra insists that Putin did actually make the controversial statements.

According to Zijlstra, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has been aware of the fake story for several weeks.

"I informed Mark Rutte a few weeks ago about Putin's statements and the way in which I wanted to protect the source of this information," says Zijlstra.

For Rutte, the lie is not a reason for Zijlstra to step down as foreign minister. "It was not wise to act like this," said Rutte, who just returned from visiting the Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, on Monday. "However, the content is not fake news. To protect his source he chose an unwise way to share his information. He should have acted differently."

Zijlstra's admission comes at a bad time as he is scheduled to fly to Russia on Tuesday to meet his Russian colleague Sergei Lavrov for the first time as Minister of Foreign Affairs. The topic of the crashed flight MH17, which cost the lives of 298 people, of which 196 from the Netherlands, is on their agenda.

The Dutch-led Joint Investigation Team (JIT) is convinced of having obtained irrefutable evidence that the flight was shot down by a Russian BUK missile. But it was rejected by Russia, who called the JIT report "biased and politically motivated".Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 22:51:36|Editor: yan

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DAMASCUS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations on Monday warned of worsening humanitarian crisis in Syria as the country is witnessing worst fightings in the conflicts with hundreds of civilian killed.

UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria stressed in a statement the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities to protect and assist civilians.

Besides hundreds of civilian deaths and injuries, the worsening clashes have resulted in massive displacement and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities.

The statement said that since Feb. 6 when the UN called for an immediate one-month-long cessation of hostilities in Syria, the situation in the country has worsened.

"Sadly, the call for an immediate cessation of hostilities to enable the delivery of humanitarian assistance and the protection of civilians, including the evacuation of the critically ill and wounded, has gone unanswered," the UN statement read.

It added that the escalation is taking its cruelest toll on civilians, everywhere in Syria.

"I am again appealing to all parties, and those with influence over them, to listen to us and to the affected population: end this intolerable human suffering," Al-Za'tari was quoted in the statement as saying.

It mentioned the situation in the Afrin enclave in northern Syria, where the Turkish army and allied Syrian rebel fighters have unleashed an offensive against the Kurdish fighters in that Kurdish-controlled enclave in northern Syria.

The UN said as many as 380 families have so far reached surrounding villages and Aleppo city neighborhoods while thousands of people have been displaced within Afrin.

The statement also mentioned the situation in Hasakah province in northern Syria and the city of Raqqa, where the people have been suffering from the lack of services and unsafe conditions.

It also mentioned the situation in the Rukban camp in southern Syria near Jordan, as civilians remain inaccessible to the humanitarian team in Syria.

In the rebel-held Eastern Ghouta region east of Damascus, humanitarian needs are increasing and life-saving aid is urgently required, but people in need have not been reached since late November 2017.

Meanwhile, fighting and retaliatory shelling from all parties are impacting civilians in Eastern Ghouta and Damascus causing scores of deaths and injuries, it added.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 22:56:37|Editor: Yamei

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed condolences and sympathy to the victims and their families in a bus crash that killed 19 and injured more than 60 in Hong Kong on Saturday.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, sent his messages to Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, the Chief Executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), right after the accident.

Xi demanded all-out efforts by the HKSAR to cope with the aftermath of the disaster, rescue the injured and comfort their families.

He also expressed appreciation for HKSAR's emergency operations after the accident.

The crash happened at around 6:15 p.m. local time Saturday when the bus, which was on its way to Tai Po from Shatin racecourse, toppled to its left on Tai Po Road in the New Territories, destroying a roadside bus station.

Most of the passengers were horse racing fans, as the bus was traveling a special route that operated on racing days.

Police said the 30-year-old driver of the bus was arrested.

The accident was the deadliest in Hong Kong since 2003, when 21 people were killed after a double-decker bus plunged off a flyover following a collision with a container truck.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:01:38|Editor: yan

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MADRID, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A spokeswoman with the Madrid Town Hall on Monday made the official presentation of the Chinese New Year celebrations, saying the Spanish capital will be filled with "color and dance" to ring in the Chinese Year of the Dog.

The spokeswoman Rita Maestre made the presentation in the presence of the People's Republic of China Ambassador to Spain Lyu Fan.

At the event held in the Chinese Cultural Center, Maestre also explained the Madrid Local Authority was cooperating with the Chinese Embassy in the organization and coordination of the events, which will be held from Feb. 12 until March 11.

Lyu Fan in turn expressed his thanks and highlighted the "positive attitude" the Madrid region and Spanish government held towards the Chinese community, saying it was a "lesson in understanding between two communities."

Around 53,000 Chinese live in the Madrid region, but every year the Chinese New Year celebrations attract more attention from Madrilenos eager to experience Chinese culture.

Among this year's events are the China Taste food festival held in 16 of the capital's most prestigious Chinese restaurants, which will make a donation to the charity United Firefighters Without Borders for every meal that is eaten.

Madrid's National Auditorium will once again host the traditional Chinese New Year concert on Feb. 14, while the Usera district of Madrid, which is home to many Chinese residents, is the venue for the New Year Festival to be held over three days starting Feb. 16 with the traditional street parade, children's workshops, and demonstrations of Chinese calligraphy, martial arts, and tai-chi.

The following weekend, Madrid's landmark Plaza Espana will become the home of the Chinese Tradition Fair, an event which highlights Chinese artisanal and cultural traditions.

And finally, the Chinese Cultural Center will host a series exhibitions, concerts, and films over the New Year period.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:01:39|Editor: yan

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VIENNA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- At least one people was killed and 22 others slightly injured in a train sideway collision accident in the Upper Styrian station Niklasdorf in south central Austria on Monday afternoon, local media reported.

According to the police, the accident is called flank collision between two trains, which collided sideways, leading to the casualties.

A female passenger, whose citizenship yet to be confirmed, died in the accident. The rescue operation was completed around 2:30 p.m. local time. The injured passengers were taken to nearby hospitals.

The reason of the accident is still under investigation. But a derailment may be blamed.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:11:43|Editor: yan

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MANILA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines is shopping around for new sources of helicopters after the Philippine president ordered a cancellation of a multimillion-dollar deal to buy 16 helicopters from Canada, Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Monday.

President Rodrigo Duterte ordered last Friday the scrapping of a 233 million-U.S. dollar helicopter deal after the Canadian government decided to review the deal due to concerns the Philippine armed forces might use the utility helicopters in counter-insurgency operations.

The Philippines has repeatedly assured Canada that the Bell 412 EPI helicopters would be used to ferry supplies and troops during disaster operations, not to attack rebels.

Nevertheless, Lorenzana said the Philippine Department of National Defense is now drafting a formal letter informing Canada about the decision of the Philippine government to cancel the contract. "I will sign it this week," he told reporters on Monday.

Meanwhile, Lorenzana said his department is looking at other countries to source helicopters, including China, Russia, South Korea and Turkey.

"We are looking at (South) Korea, Russia, China and Turkey and other countries for the medium-lift helicopters in lieu of the Bell 412," Lorenzana said.

The Philippines also bought eight Bell helicopters from Bell Helicopter in 2014.

"This is just a repeat order. Why do they (Canada) raise that issue now?" asked Lorenzana, adding that the 16 Bell helicopters the Philippine military is buying are not attack helicopters "but a medium lift."Bashar al-Jaafari, Syrian chief negotiator and Ambassador of the Permanent Representative Mission of Syria to the United Nations speaks to journalists after the talks on Syria in Vienna on January 26, 2018. (AFP Photo)

DAMASCUS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Syria's Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad hailed Iran's role in supporting Syria in the face of foreign aggression and in the face of the U.S. scheme in the region.

At dawn Saturday, the Syrian air defenses fired anti-aircraft missiles against Israeli airstrikes which targeted an airbase in the central province of Homs on the pretext that an Iranian drone was sent from the base and infiltrated the Israeli airspace.

Israeli media said an Israeli F-16 was hit and crashed in northern Israel by the Syrian anti-aircraft missiles.

The downing of an Israeli warplane has created a precedent during Syria's nearly seven-year-long war, as the Syrian government always responded to Israel's military attacks with condemnation and retaliation vows.

The incident marked the first time that an Israeli warplane has been shot down since the downing of an Israeli F-14 in 1986 over Lebanon.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:26:50|Editor: yan

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TEHRAN, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani will visit India on Thursday for an official visit at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, state TV reported on Monday.

During the three-day visit, Rouhani will discuss regional and international developments as well as bilateral economic ties.

India and Iran have friendly relations in many areas. There are significant trade ties, particularly in crude oil imports into India and diesel exports to Iran.

Iran is the second largest supplier of crude oil to India, supplying more than 425,000 barrels of oil per day, and consequently India is one of the largest foreign investors in Iran's oil and gas industry.

On 22 May 2016, Prime minister Narendra Modi paid an official visit to Iran. The visit focused on bilateral connectivity and infrastructure, an energy partnership, and trade.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:31:53|Editor: yan

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PARIS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations education body, UNESCO was here Monday to participate in the international conference on the reconstruction of Iraq, with a major focus on educational improvement and preserving cultural heritage.

At the three-day meeting that began Monday, UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay "will reaffirm UNESCO's commitment to the process of national reconciliation," said the Paris-based UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

During her first visit to the Arab world since her election at the end of 2017, Azoulay "will highlight the organization's work and role in support of emergency education and heritage protection as factors of national cohesion."

Organized by the governments of Kuwait and Iraq with the support of the World Bank, the European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN), the conference aims to mobilize civil society, the private sector and all international powers to help reconstruct Iraq, a country ravaged by years of civil war.

According to the UN educational body, 11 million Iraqis are in need of humanitarian assistance, 3 million people have been displaced over the country, and 70,000 Iraqis per week return to the territories they fled during the war.

As part of its plan to promote access to quality education and capacity building, UNESCO said it had helped about 10,000 displaced secondary school children benefit from educational support.

However, it added that there was an "enormous" need to improve access to education which "require an increase in international aid."

In 2017, the organization also held the international coordination conference on safeguarding cultural heritage in liberated areas of Iraq which led to the adoption of an action plan to safeguard the country's archaeological sites, historical cities, museums, and religious heritage.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:31:54|Editor: yan

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JAKARTA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in Indonesia's resort island of Bali are making preparations to welcome Chinese tourists during the Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, an official said.

Head of Indonesia's Bali provincial tourism office Agung Yuniarta said measures aimed at assuring security and safety for Chinese tourists have been carried out by the local authorities.

"These measures were intended to make Chinese tourists comfortable during their stay to celebrate the Lunar New Year here," Agung said in a statement released on Monday.

He added that facilities to welcome tourists to take part in the New Year's Eve celebrations in Bali have also been set in all access to Bali, including in the airport and seaports.

He said the seaports in Gilimanuk and Padang Bai would facilitate domestic tourists to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year's Eve from neighboring islands of Java and Lombok.

"Bali remained a favorite place to spend the Chinese New Year holiday for local and foreign tourists, which this year would be dominated from China," Agung added.

Director of Greater China Marketing Development at the Indonesian Tourism Ministry Vincensius Jemadu said earlier that some 1,500 Chinese tourists would come to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Bali.

The upcoming New Year celebration event in Bali is supported by the ministry and Chinese Consulate General in Bali.

Indonesian Tourism Minister Arief Yahya said it proves that Bali is still the irreplaceable destination among international tourists with its natural beauties and various marine attractions, coupled with its cultural and traditional attractions.

Indonesian authorities have downgraded the alert status for Mount Agung volcano on the island from the highest alert to standby last week following receding volcanic activities.

The authorities also shrank the dangerous area radius from 6 to 4 km from the volcano summit due to the developing situation.

The eruption of the volcano since last September has tarnished the island's main sector, leaving those in the tourism business living in despair.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:41:56|Editor: yan

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BRUSSELS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A small passenger plane crashed on Monday near Hasselt in the province of Limburg some 80 km from here, leaving two dead, according to various Dutch media sources.

A passenger plane crashed Monday in Stokrooie, between Lummen and Hasselt, the mayor of Hasselt and the Belgian federal prosecutor said.

The accident occurred around 1:20 p.m. local time (1220 GMT), near the streets of BruyneBosstraat and Bredestraat in Stokrooie (Hasselt). The police confirmed the deaths of both occupants of the aircraft.

According to preliminary reports, the plane struck high-voltage cables during its descent.

The aircraft was en route to the Zwartberg airfield near Genk, about 15 km from the scene of the accident, the Flemish newspaper Belang van Limburg reported. It added that the aircraft came from Wevelgem and was making a final flight before maintenance.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:46:57|Editor: yan

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BEIRUT, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Beirut's First Investigative Judge Ghassan Oueidat dropped on Monday a case against Saudi Arabia's Arab Gulf Affairs Minister Thamer Sabhan because it conflicted with Lebanon's supreme interest, the Daily Star reported.

It said Oueidat justified his decision based on the idea that "the tweets made by Minister Sabhan came within the framework of a political opinion imposed on him by his position, and the requirements of the prevailing regional and international politics at that period in time."

Sabhan, a fierce critic of Hezbollah, made inflammatory statements around the time of prime minister Saad Hariri's abrupt resignation from Riyadh in November. Hariri later went back on that decision.

Sabhan wrote in his tweets that "Lebanon, after the resignation, will never be as it was before and we will not accept Lebanon being part of a war against Saudi Arabia."

He also said the Lebanese people would have to choose between supporting or opposing Hezbollah.

"This lawsuit conflicts with the supreme interest of Lebanon and the interests of the state," Oueidat said Monday.

He added that his decision to drop the case was also based on the "lack of jurisdiction of courts to assess international relations and disputes."Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:46:57|Editor: yan

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BERLIN, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Several employees of German chemicals firm BASF are being investigated for potentially defrauding their own company of a figure in the millions of euros, the Kaiserslautern state prosecution office confirmed on Monday.

"The purported damage which has been caused to BASF is in the millions," a statement by the office read.

According to the prosecutors, an internal BASF investigation in 2017 had first led to suspicions that four employees were cooperating with five external firms in creating false invoices over the course of several years.

Additionally, the state prosecution office is examining whether aspects of the dubious commercial activity also constituted the offense of bribery under German law.

The alleged fraud occurred at BASF's global headquarters in Ludwigshafen. One of the suspects has passed away in the meanwhile, meaning that only three employees are currently under investigation.

Security authorities have searched the apartments and offices of several individuals involved in the alleged fraud to obtain further evidence. The state prosecution office was "currently unwilling to comment" on whether any of the suspects had already responded to the criminal charges.

BASF is the world's largest chemicals firm by revenue, employing around 112,000 staff in more than 80 countries and regions.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-12 23:57:01|Editor: Liangyu

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South Korean President Moon Jae-in (front C) walks with Kim Yong Nam (front L), president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), and Kim Yo Jong (front R), the younger sister of top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un, at the Blue House in Seoul, capital of South Korea, on Feb. 10, 2018. (Xinhua/Newsis)

SEOUL, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The recent high-level meetings between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and South Korea on the occasion of rare rapprochement ushered in by the DPRK have singled a kind of improvement of relations between the two Koreas.

The inter-Korean meetings took place during a three-day historic visit by a high-ranking delegation dispatched by the DPRK to attend the opening ceremony of the ongoing PyeongChang Winter Olympics in South Korea.

The DPRK delegation wrapped up the visit on Sunday night.

The climax of the visit occurred when Kim Yo Jong, the younger sister and special envoy of top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un, delivered an invitation to South Korean President Moon Jae-in, inviting him to visit Pyongyang.

Moon's positive reaction and the good wills showed by the two sides during and after the meeting have brought hopes to improvement of inter-Korean relations.

LONG-AWAITED VISIT

It was the first time that a high-level DPRK delegation visited South Korea since October 2014, when the DPRK sent a delegation to Incheon to attend the closing ceremony of the 17th Asian Games.

At the beginning of 2018, a silver lining emerged amid the spat and risk of military conflicts on the Korean Peninsula, as both sides held an official meeting on Jan. 9 to reach an agreement that the DPRK would send a delegation to the 23rd Winter Olympics held in South Korea's PyeongChang.

Besides the Olympics delegation and a cheer group, the DPRK also sent Samjiyon orchestra, a 140-member art group that had presented congratulatory concerts in Gangneung and Seoul on Thursday and Sunday respectively.

The DPRK art group's last visit to South Korea can date back to August 2002, when a delegation of the DPRK political, religious, academic and art representatives came for joint celebrations to mark the Liberation Day, commemorating the overthrow of the Japanese colonial rule on the peninsula on Aug. 15, 1945.

The high-ranking DPRK delegation arrived in South Korea on Friday, including President of the Presidium of the DPRK Supreme People's Assembly Kim Yong Nam and Kim Yo Jong, who also serves as the first vice director of the Central Committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea.

GOOD WILL FROM BOTH SIDES

Before the Olympics opening ceremony, Moon met with the delegation members. He greeted and shook hands with Kim Yong Nam on Friday at a reception in PyeongChang.

On Saturday, during an informal meeting between Moon and the DPRK's Olympic delegation in the Blue House presidential complex in Seoul, which was not disclosed to the media, Kim Yo Jong said the top DPRK leader is willing to meet Moon at an earliest possible date, inviting the South Korean president to visit the DPRK at Moon's convenient time, Moon's spokesman told a press briefing.

In response, Moon said, "Let's create conditions going forward and make it."

The spokesman said Moon and the high-ranking DPRK delegation made a broad range of discussions on inter-Korean relations and issues on the Korean Peninsula "under a friendly atmosphere."

Moon stressed the importance of talks between the DPRK and the United States, saying an early DPRK-U.S. dialogue is necessary to enhance inter-Korean ties.

On the same day, local media reported that Moon dismissed a call by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to quickly resume the U.S.-South Korea joint military exercises.

HOPE FOR DIALOGUE

Observers said the delegation's visit opened a channel between the two sides, bringing new hopes to improvement of inter-Korean relations.

The DPRK's invitation was seen as a reach out of Kim Jong Un's sincerity and willingness to Moon Jae-in, although there was no mention of the nuclear issue, South Korean media noted.

The DPRK's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said the atmosphere in the Blue House was "sincere and cordial" with both sides agreeing to keep the momentum of rapprochement in inter-Korean relations since the beginning of the year.

However, the eased inter-Korean relations didn't change the U.S. stance, as U.S. Vice President Mike Pence avoided interaction with the DPRK officials in PyeongChang.

Pence revealed that while keeping maximum pressure on the DPRK, the United States and South Korea agreed to further engage with Pyongyang, the Washington Post reported on Sunday.

Lee Sang-man, a South Korean researcher in the Institute for Far Eastern Studies, Kyungnam University, told Xinhua that all relevant parties should broaden their channel for dialogue and foster a peninsula peace agreement as soon as possible.

Moon's visit is highly possible, if South Korea and the United States downscale joint military exercises, and the DPRK agrees to freeze its nuclear weapon program, he added.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 00:07:02|Editor: yan

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ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- During the 30th summit of the African Union (AU) heads of states, African leaders have expressed their firm commitment to breaking off the chains of corruption to eradicate the scourge in all its forms.

Under the umbrella of the AU Department of Political Affairs, the pan-African bloc adopted "Winning the Fight against Corruption: A Sustainable Path to Africa's Transformation" as the theme of the summit and for the whole 2018.

On Monday, the AU released a statement and a logo of the 2018 anti-corruption campaign.

The logo derives its color scheme from the AU symbols as prescribed by the Constitutive Act of the Union, noted the statement.

This includes the emblem of the AU: the palm leaves shooting up on either side of the outer circle stand for peace; the gold circle symbolizes Africa's wealth and bright future; the green circle stands for African hopes and aspirations; the plain map of Africa without boundaries in the inner circle signifies African unity and the small interlocking red rings at base of the emblem stand for African solidarity and the bloodshed for liberation of Africa.

The entire motif of the logo on the theme of the year 2018, depicts Africa's struggle with acts of corruption on the continent, from the shackles of slavery; colonialism; apartheid and the modern concept of "State Capture," while the hand cuffs-breaking signifies the resolve to break free from the historical and current burden of corruption in all its forms, said the statement.

In his speech at the 32nd Session of the AU Executive Council under the framework of the 30th AU summit, Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the AU Commission, noted that the theme of the year 2018 is in perfect correlation with investing in youth by harnessing the demographic dividend, the theme of the previous year.

According to the pan-African bloc, the figures put forward by many credible reports of experts show that the scourge of corruption has reached alarming proportions.

The reports state that the resources diverted by corruption from Africa could, if invested in development, replace the use of external assistance, which then only becomes a mere supplement to the resources and potential of the continent.

In relation to the problem, the report of the panel led by former President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa shows that corruption, coupled with illicit financial flows, deprives Africa of about 50 billion U.S. dollars a year.

Emphasizing on the magnitude of the problem, the chairperson of the AU Commission has called on all African nations to be concerned in one way or another, at more or less varying degrees.

"Like terrorism, the fight here should be global and can only be won by our collective action," Faki said.

According to the chairperson of the AU Advisory Board on Corruption, Begoto Miarom, one of the first steps in combating corruption is having strong laws and even stronger institutions.

The adoption of the AU Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC) in 2003 and its rapid entry into force in 2006 gave hope to many in Africa that governments are determined to fight corruption.

To date, 49 of the 55 AU member states have signed the AUCPCC, and 38 of them have gone on to ratify the convention and become state parties to it, said Begoto.

He has also expressed satisfaction that many of the state parties have gone on to domesticate the convention through the enactment of national laws as well as establishment of national anti-corruption agencies.

"While these are indeed commendable efforts that must be lauded, some gaps still exist as 17 countries are yet to ratify the convention," he said. "The universal ratification by all member states will symbolize Africa's determination to fight corruption."

Begoto reiterated the need to deepen the resolve, focus and expertise for addressing the many facets of corruption facing Africa.

"As part of the program of activities, we will seek to involve the broadest range of actors including national anti-corruption agencies, central banks, national audit and investigative agencies, civil society organizations, the youth and women," he said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 00:07:02|Editor: yan

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The United States and South Korea have agreed on terms for further engagement and even conversation with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), U.S. media reported on Monday, citing Vice President Mike Pence.

In an interview aboard Air Force Two on the way home from the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea, Pence told the Washington Post that in his two substantive conversations with South Korean President Moon Jae-in during his trip, they agreed that the engagement shall be conducted "first by the South Koreans and potentially with the United States soon thereafter."

According to the Washington Post, Pence referred the still-nascent plan as "maximum pressure and engagement at the same time," revealing a change from the previous U.S. position that emphasized in building "maximum pressure" until Pyongyang agreed to abandon its nuclear weapon program in exchange for direct engagement with Washington.

The Trump administration has engaged in "maximum pressure" against the DPRK since assuming office in January, 2017, to curb Pyongyang's nuclear and missile development program.

The United States and its allies will not stop imposing steep and escalating costs on the DPRK until it takes clear steps toward denuclearization, the report said, adding but the Trump administration is now willing to sit down and talk with the regime while that pressure campaign is ongoing.

"The point is, no pressure comes off until they are actually doing something that the alliance believes represents a meaningful step toward denuclearization," Pence was quoted by the Washington Post as saying.

"So the maximum pressure campaign is going to continue and intensify. But if you want to talk, we'll talk," he said.

According to the report, Moon assured Pence in their meeting that he would tell the DPRK clearly that they would not get economic or diplomatic benefits for just talking -- only for taking concrete steps toward denuclearization. Based on that assurance, Pence felt confident he could endorse post-Olympic engagement with Pyongyang.

Pence added that Moon has urged the DPRK side to "talk to the Americans" in their meeting.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 00:12:03|Editor: yan

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CAIRO, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said on Monday that his country will support Egypt in its war against terrorism.

"The Egyptian people should be confident that the U.S. commitment to continue to support Egypt in fight against terrorism and bringing security to Egyptian people is steadfast," Tillerson told reporters in Cairo during a press conference with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry.

"We agreed we would continue our close cooperation on counterterrorism measures," Tillerson said.

Tillerson's visit comes as Egypt is carrying out a major nationwide anti-terror military operation that aims to uproot terrorist groups that killed hundreds of Egyptians in the past few years.

Secretary Tillerson has launched on Sunday a regional trip to visit Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, and Kuwait.

His trip comes amid regional discontent of the U.S. administration's decision to recognize the disputed city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

It is Tillerson's first visit to Egypt where discussed with Egyptian officials the ongoing U.S.-Egypt partnership.

On the Middle East peace process, the U.S. Secretary of State said his country remains committed to achieving lasting peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians.

Commenting on the upcoming Egyptian presidential elections that will be held in March, Tillerson said that the United States supports transparent electoral process.

"We have always advocated for free and fair elections...not just for Egypt, but in any country. "The US is always going to advocate for electoral process that respects rights of citizens," he said.

Egypt's Foreign Minister said that he agreed with Tillerson to hold the U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue at the level of foreign ministers in the second half of 2018.

Shoukry lauded the U.S. support for Egypt's efforts to achieve development, reform, and stability as well as finding peaceful settlements to regional crises.

Egypt receives annual military aid of 1.3 billion U.S. dollars, making it the second largest recipient of U.S. annual aid after Israel, Washington's top ally in the region.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 00:22:10|Editor: yan

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BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A magnitude-4.3 earthquake hit Yongqing County, Langfang City in north China's Hebei Province, just south of Beijing, on Monday evening.

According to China Earthquake Networks Center, the quake struck at 6:31 p.m. Beijing time. By 9 p.m., there had been no reports of casualties or damage.

Many residents in the county seat of Yongqing ran out of their apartment buildings after the quake struck. Some later returned home while some continued to stay outside fearing bigger quakes.

"I suddenly felt that the sofa shook, like a heavy-duty truck rumbling by," a resident in Yongqing told Xinhua, who declined to be named.

Liang Yongjin, a staffer at a hotel in Yongqing, said he felt nothing but some slight shakes when the quake hit.

"Everything is fine in the hotel. The building and the furniture were undamaged. There was no visible panic among the customers," Liang said.

Tremors were felt in Beijing.

"After I felt some slight shakes, I immediately ran out of the building," said a man surnamed Chen who lives in a residential area in western Beijing.

Zhang Yuan, an office worker in eastern Beijing, said when the quake struck, a lamp overhead swung slightly for some time.

Experts believed that the likelihood of bigger quakes in the region is small and the public does not need to be panic.

"The moderate quake was very likely an isolated quake with smaller aftershocks," said Liu Guiping, deputy director of China Earthquake Networks Center.

By 9:20 p.m., 24 aftershocks had been recorded, with the biggest one measuring 1.8 in magnitude, according to the center.

The earthquake was rather deep and therefore unlikely to cause severe damage, Liu said, adding that local authorities in Langfang have sent teams to investigate quake-related damage.

Since 1900, no earthquakes larger than magnitude 5 have been reported within 50 km of the epicenter, she said.

After the quake, the Beijing Railway Bureau temporarily halted trains running in the region and checked sections of Beijing-Shanghai and Beijing-Kowloon railway lines to ensure transport safety, thus causing some delays.

After line checkups were finished, all the train services have been resumed, the bureau said on its official account on Sina Weibo, China's popular Twitter-like microblogging service.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 00:37:16|Editor: yan

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KIGALI, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda's Chief Justice Sam Rugege Monday launched an anti-corruption week dedicated to fighting corruption in the judiciary.

Addressing reporters in Rwandan capital Kigali, Rugege called on Rwandans to stand up against graft, saying money spent in graft could be allocated to infrastructure development such as construction of roads, schools, and hospitals.

The campaign will involve putting focus on trial of corruption-related cases and sensitization campaigns in courts across the country.

Rugege said 117 corruption-related cases will be tried during the course of the week.

Among the cases to be tried include bribery and mismanagement of government contracts, Rwanda's Prosecutor General Jean Bosco Mutangana told the same press briefing.

Rugege also urged the public to report corruption cases they encounter among judges, prosecutors, lawyers, or any other public officials.

From 2005 to 2017, 35 judiciary officials, including judges and court registrars, were fired over corruption, according to him.

The number of culprits is decreasing, Rugege said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 01:07:24|Editor: yan

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KIEV, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili has been deported from Ukraine to Poland, the State Border Guard Service (SBGS) of Ukraine said on Monday.

"In accordance with courts' decisions, this person resided in Ukraine illegally, and therefore, it was returned to the country from which he entered Ukraine with the observance of all legal formalities," the SBGS said in a statement.

Earlier on the day, Saakashvili's lawyer Ruslan Chornolutsky told Interfax-Ukraine news agency that the politician was detained by officers of the SBGS and taken away in an unknown direction.

Last week, Kiev Administrative Court of Appeals confirmed the decision of a lower court to reject a political asylum application from Saakashvili.

Ukrainian Justice Minister Pavlo Petrenko said that the court's ruling removes legal obstacles to the extradition of the former Georgian leader from Ukraine.

The ruling came a month after a Tbilisi court found Saakashvili guilty of abusing power in 2009 during his second term as the president of Georgia and sentenced him in absentia to three years in prison.

Saakashvili, 50, served two terms as Georgia's president from 2004 to 2013. He acquired Ukrainian citizenship in May 2015 and was appointed governor of Odessa region.

In July last year, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko revoked Saakashvili's citizenship, following allegations that he had submitted false information while applying for his Ukrainian passport.

Two months later, Saakashvili walked into Ukraine from Poland without showing the necessary documents to the border guards. His supporters broke through the cordon of security forces and escorted him into Ukraine.

In Ukraine, Saakashvili has applied for political asylum, but the State Migration Service and later the Kiev District Administrative Court have rejected the request.

On Sept. 5, 2017, the Georgian Chief Prosecutor's Office asked Kiev to take measures for Saakashvili's extradition.This picture provided by Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Feb. 9, 2018 shows the top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un attending the military parade marking the 70th anniversary of the founding of Korean People's Army in Pyongyang, capital of the DPRK. (Xinhua/KCNA)

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The United States and South Korea have agreed on terms for further engagement and even conversation with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), U.S. media reported on Monday, citing Vice President Mike Pence.

In an interview aboard Air Force Two on the way home from the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea, Pence told the Washington Post that in his two substantive conversations with South Korean President Moon Jae-in during his trip, they agreed that the engagement shall be conducted "first by the South Koreans and potentially with the United States soon thereafter."

According to the Washington Post, Pence referred the still-nascent plan as "maximum pressure and engagement at the same time," revealing a change from the previous U.S. position that emphasized in building "maximum pressure" until Pyongyang agreed to abandon its nuclear weapon program in exchange for direct engagement with Washington.

The Trump administration has engaged in "maximum pressure" against the DPRK since assuming office in January, 2017, to curb Pyongyang's nuclear and missile development program.

The United States and its allies will not stop imposing steep and escalating costs on the DPRK until it takes clear steps toward denuclearization, the report said, adding but the Trump administration is now willing to sit down and talk with the regime while that pressure campaign is ongoing.

"The point is, no pressure comes off until they are actually doing something that the alliance believes represents a meaningful step toward denuclearization," Pence was quoted by the Washington Post as saying.

"So the maximum pressure campaign is going to continue and intensify. But if you want to talk, we'll talk," he said.

According to the report, Moon assured Pence in their meeting that he would tell the DPRK clearly that they would not get economic or diplomatic benefits for just talking -- only for taking concrete steps toward denuclearization. Based on that assurance, Pence felt confident he could endorse post-Olympic engagement with Pyongyang.

Pence added that Moon has urged the DPRK side to "talk to the Americans" in their meeting.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 01:32:31|Editor: yan

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BEIJING, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Beijing police released the latest updates on the investigation into the knife attack at a shopping mall in downtown Beijing Sunday, revealing revenge on society as suspect's motive.

The suspect, a 35-year-old native of Xihua County in central China's Henan Province surnamed Zhu, sought revenge on society due to his addiction to online games, adversities in work and life, and conflicts with his employers, which gradually led to his alleged personal grievances and dark mind.

According to the police, Zhu have been away from home since dropping out of middle school, and have worked to earn his living in a number of provinces including Henan, Jiangsu and Hebei.

He has been jobless since resigning at the end of 2017 from a factory in Langfang, north China's Hebei Province, investigation showed.

The Beijing police thanked the employees at the mall and restaurants therein, as well as passers-by on the scene who helped with their work, and suggested citizens ensure their own safety before helping those in jeopardy.

At around 1 p.m. on Sunday at Joy City in the commercial area of Xidan, Xicheng District, Beijing, Zhu launched the knife assault, resulting in one death and 12 people injured. Police found all of the victims were strangers to the suspect.

None of the injured are in critical condition, and five have already left hospital.

The suspect is under criminal detention at the moment as investigation goes on.Sorry, this news has been deleted.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 02:17:36|Editor: yan

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GABORONE, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Botswana President Seretse Khama Ian Khama on Monday vowed to revive and strengthen the country's ties with Zimbabwe.

Khama told visiting Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa that Botswana highly values its relationship with Zimbabwe and sees her as a special friend in the region with similar values.

The Botswana leader congratulated Mnangagwa on his assumption of office as Zimbabwe's head of state, highlighting that it reaffirmed the need to revive bilateral relations, Botswana Press Agency (BOPA) reported.

Mnagagwa is on a two-day state visit to Botswana.

Khama assured Mnagagwa that Botswana stands ready to give Zimbabwe all the support in her new journey of economic transformation and peace and prosperity for the betterment of the people of Zimbabwe, BOPA said.

For his part, Mnagagwa expressed delight over the invite and hospitality he has been rendered by Botswana as it was his first state visit since being sworn in as Zimbabwean head of state.

He said Botswana has played a critical role in the history of Zimbabwe that dates back to the years of liberation struggle.

Mnagagwa said the two countries have a lot in common and need to further strengthen ties in any field that would be of great benefit to their citizens.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 02:32:38|Editor: yan

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UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- President of the UN General Assembly Miroslav Lajcak on Monday stressed the importance of conflict prevention with regard to peacekeeping.

"The United Nations was created to save people from the horrors of war, not to react once those horrors are in motion," Lajcak told the opening session of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations of the General Assembly.

"We can never lose sight of this. And we need to do more to translate it into everything the United Nations does -- from the work of UN country teams in the field to discussions between delegates in New York."

But he said that more conflict prevention does not necessarily mean less peacekeeping. "Yes, earlier action for prevention could in some cases avoid the deployment of military missions. However, in others it could mean sending our blue helmets to less hostile environments. It could give them a chance to keep peace while it is still there, rather than to respond to its loss."

Prevention and peacekeeping do not have to be distinct activities, said Lajcak. "When it comes to conflict prevention, our focus is often on special political missions, mediation teams, or the UN's good offices. But, prevention must be a UN-wide activity."

Peacekeepers often work in support of political, or mediation, processes. They have key relationships with national actors. They can help to flag early warning signs of conflict. "The fact is: prevention is already part of our peacekeeping."

He called for a stronger prevention focus throughout all peacekeeping missions. "This will mean ensuring that they can rapidly deploy and adapt in response to warning signs of conflict. It will mean developing tools for conflict mapping and analysis, including at the local level. And it will mean strengthening capacity for prevention and mediation, across the board."Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 02:32:39|Editor: Liangyu

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NEW YORK, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- With its increasingly urbanized population and rising middle class, China is a major growth market for American whiskey, a U.S. industry leader has said.

"We've seen growth in China and our exports are up almost 15 percent compared to 2016," said Christine LoCascio, senior vice president of international affairs, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), in a recent interview with Xinhua.

"It's a growth market for us. It ranks our 24th largest export market, but there are still a lot of opportunities to grow there and we've been doing promotions there," LoCascio said on the sidelines of the national trade association's annual economic briefing in New York City.

"China is a huge spirits market, and we just see it quite an opportunity for us," she said.

Since March 2017, DISCUS has appointed a Beijing-based American whiskey ambassador to provide in-market media relations and general trade servicing, promotions, and educational outreach to bars, clubs, restaurants, and influential trade contracts in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

"We are optimistic that we will continue to grow. China is a relatively open market, and import tariff is only 10 percent. So compared to some other markets throughout Asia, it's a very open market," said LoCascio.

"We just continue to view it as an opportunity for growth for us; we are gonna continue our education campaign; we look forward to continuing to expand our exports there," she added.

Kraig R. Naasz, DISCUS President and CEO, said the industry's strategy in China is predominantly focused on the long-term as the market holds great promise and the markets for premium U.S. spirits are still developing.

"American whisky has a rich history and tradition behind it. It's very flavorful and can be mixed in many ways until you find the perfect cocktail for you," said Naasz when asked what makes American whiskey stands out among the world's spirits.

"I have tried many Chinese spirits as well as delicacies that are provided throughout China, and find them much delightful," said Naasz, who has visited China on several occasions in recent years. "I look forward to coming back because every time I visit, the change is amazing."

"On behalf of all American whisky producers, we wish our Chinese consumers a very joyous new year celebration and we like them to enjoy our products in good health, and good fortune, cheers to Chinese!" Naasz said, referring Chinese Lunar New Year which falls on Feb. 16 this year.

Buoyed by a weak dollar, overseas sales of U.S.-made spirits were up more than 14 percent, reaching 1.63 billion U.S. dollars last year, according to DISCUS. The United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil, France, and Spain were the largest export markets for American spirits in 2017.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 03:07:47|Editor: yan

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LISBON, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The mid-Atlantic Azores Islands experienced hundreds of small earthquakes on Monday, the Azores Center for Seismovolcanic Information and Surveillance (CIVISA) confirmed.

The tremors began shortly before midnight on Sunday and continued throughout Monday morning.

Most were microseisms, tremors caused by natural phenomenon that cannot be felt by humans. But around 20 of the earthquakes were strong enough to be felt by the local population.

"I was fast asleep when I suddenly felt the bed shaking," Helena Pacheco told the Portuguese Lusa News Agency. "It's frightening as there's no telling what might happen."

According to the Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), the strongest quake registered 3.6 on the Richter scale. This places it in the scale's "minor" category.

The activity was focused on Sao Miguel island with the epicenter somewhere between the Fogo and Congro lakes. The Azores islands archipelago is an autonomous region of Portugal and the regional capital, Ponta Delgada, is located on Sao Miguel island.

"The standard rules of security for these types of situations are in place, the civil protection and fire prevention services and municipal authorities have all been notified," Rui Luis, the regional health secretary, told local journalists. "What we need now is for everyone to remain calm."Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 03:07:47|Editor: yan

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RABAT, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Morocco and the British company of Sound Energy have reached an eight-year agreement for onshore petroleum exploration in the central Moroccan town of Sidi Moktar, the British company announced on Monday.

The Petroleum Agreement has been granted to Sound Energy by L'Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM), the Moroccan state regulator for petroleum operations, and will come into force on approval of the Moroccan Energy and Finance Ministries, the British company said in a statement.

The Agreement covers some 4,499 square km and will be named "Sidi Moktar Onshore," the same source pointed out.

Upon the Sidi Moktar Petroleum Agreement becoming effective, the Company will hold an operated 75 percent position in Sidi Moktar Onshore, while the remaining 25 percent will be held by ONHYM, it noted.

The Sidi Moktar Petroleum Agreement will have a duration of eight years from award and, as with all Moroccan licences, will be divided into three phases, with each phase having pre-agreed work commitments.

The British company has been active in gas exploration near the northern city of Kenitra as well as the eastern town of Tendrara.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 03:12:48|Editor: yan

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RABAT, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Moroccan minister delegate in charge of national defense administration and a UN Peacekeeping Operation official discussed here on Monday means to improve security conditions of UN troops in Africa.

Abdeltif Loudyi, the Moroccan minister and Lieutenant General Carlos Humberto Loitey, military adviser for the UN Peacekeeping Operation, also discussed the contribution of Morocco to the UN operations.

The two officials mulled over means to improve the conditions for the conduct of peacekeeping missions, given the complex environment of current operations, said a statement by the national defense administration.

On this occasion, Loudyi highlighted the important and continuous efforts of the kingdom in the field of peacekeeping, commending the initiatives launched by UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, as part of the reform of the UN architecture for peacekeeping and security, the statement said.

For his part, Loitey reiterated UN's condolences to the kingdom following the death of Moroccan peacekeepers performing their duty with honor and bravery in the Central African Republic, the same source said.

He also expressed his appreciation of the important role played by Morocco in this area and praised Morocco's commitment to "Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System," the announcement of which was made as part of the UN Peacekeeping Defense Ministerial conference, held last November in Vancouver, Canada.

The UN official, who is leading a large military delegation for a four-day working visit to Morocco until Feb. 14, held also talks with the inspector general of Morocco's Royal Armed Forces.

Morocco has deployed some 70,000 soldiers during the past 60 years as well as several field hospitals under the auspices of the United Nations.

Currently, it is present in two UN operations in the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo with some 1,605 military personnel.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 03:22:51|Editor: yan

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GENEVA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein on Monday voiced alarm at continuing civilian casualties in Yemen as hostilities increase and spread.

In the first eight days of February, the UN Human Rights Office verified that 27 people were killed and 76 injured in Yemen, more than double the number of civilian casualties confirmed during the previous week.

"The upsurge in fighting in the southwestern Governorate of Taizz is of particular concern. Civilians are under fire on all sides, as Houthi and affiliated forces carry out sniper attacks and indiscriminate shelling, and the Saudi-led Coalition continues to conduct airstrikes," said Zeid.

Among the incidents verified by the UN Human Rights Office, three children were killed when Houthi forces shelled Usayfrah in Al Qahirah district in Northern Taizz on Feb. 6.

On Feb. 8, a woman working as a field monitor for the Yemen National Commission of Inquiry, Reeham Badr Al Dhubhani, was killed in shelling by Houthi forces on Al-Lasb area in Salh district, the UN said.

"Reeham Badr Al Dhubhani had received training from my Office in carrying out human rights monitoring, and we send our profound condolences to her family and friends," said the High Commissioner.

According to the UN, increased armed clashes in Taizz in recent weeks have also fuelled fears that the violence will spread from suburban areas of Taizz City to other neighborhoods, including the densely populated area of Alhuban.

Since March 2015 and as of Feb. 8, the UN Human Rights office had documented 15,467 civilian casualties in Yemen, with 5,974 killed and 9,493 injured.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 03:32:53|Editor: yan

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VIENNA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Austria's strong economic growth momentum seen last year is to carry through at least the first half of 2018, the National Bank (OeNB) stated in its latest economic reported on Monday.

The central bank anticipates GDP growth in both the first and second quarters of 0.8 percent. For the first quarter, this marks a 0.1 percent upward revision since the most recent forecast in December.

The growth trends seen last year remain uninterrupted, and will be boosted by both domestic and foreign demand, said the bank.

Austria's export market in particular will be able to benefit from positive economic trends seen on an international level including in the euro area, bolstered further by the strong competitiveness of domestic companies, the OeNB said.

Positive developments are also expected for the employment market, investments, and the construction and industrial sectors.

It noted that at the start of the year, many of its economic indicators were pointing to historical highs, and anticipates growth for the full year to at least mirror that of 2017, when the three-percent GDP growth mark was surpassed for the first time since the onset of the global financial crisis.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 03:48:00|Editor: yan

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UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has received four allegations of misconduct, including three allegations of sexual exploitation, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Monday.

Those allegations involve military peacekeepers from South Africa, said the spokesman.

The three allegations of sexual exploitation involve adult victims. Those incidents allegedly took place in Sake, Beni and Goma in North Kivu province, said Dujarric.

The UN Population Fund has been engaged to ensure that victims are provided with immediate assistance, he added.

The fourth allegation refers to physical violence inflicted by military peacekeepers on a 17-year-old boy in Eastern Kasai province, said the spokesman.

The victim was referred to the UN Children's Fund for immediate assistance and his protection is being monitored by the UN's Joint Human Rights Office, he said.

The UN mission will provide any additional assistance such as the collection of DNA samples, he said.

The United Nations has requested South Africa to dispatch investigators and to complete investigations within the reduced 90-day timeframe given the serious concerns raised by these allegations, said Dujarric.

The United Nations is gravely concerned over these allegations despite the efforts in partnership with member states to prevent and address sexual exploitation and abuse and misconduct, said the spokesman.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 04:08:05|Editor: yan

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BAGHDAD, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Monday said that his country will continue to support Iraq after the defeat of Islamic State (IS) and is looking forward to participate in rebuilding Iraq.

Le Drian on Monday arrived in Baghdad and held a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi in Baghdad's Green Zone.

The two sides discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in various fields and means to support Iraq in reconstruction and stability, in addition to discussing the situation in the region, according to a statement issued by Abadi's office after the meeting.

"Le Drian reiterated his country's support to Iraq in the reconstruction phase, noting that the stability of Iraq will be an opportunity and a model of insistence on liberation and construction in the (Middle East) region," the statement said.

Earlier in the day, Le Drian arrived in Baghdad on an official visit to meet Iraqi top officials to discuss bilateral relations, including France's participation in the conference of Iraq's reconstruction held in Kuwait, as well as supporting Iraq in its war against terrorism.

Le Drian also met with Iraqi President Fuad Masoum, who hailed France's support to Iraq during the war against the extremist Islamic State (IS) militants and praised its efforts in the post-IS reconstruction of Iraq.

A statement by Masoum office said that the Iraqi president highlighted "the importance of France's military and humanitarian support to Iraq in its war against the (IS) organization, as well as its efforts to mobilize the support of the international community to Iraq."

Le Drian also met with the Speaker of the Iraqi parliament Salim al-Jubouri, and the two sides reviewed the latest developments of the security and political situation in the region and the world, in addition to discussing the return of the displaced people to their homes, according to a statement by Jubouri's office.

"Iraq is heading for openness on both regional and international levels, in accordance with a new (political) vision to prepare for the stage of reconstruction," Jubouri told Le Drian and his delegation.

Jubouri also called for paying greater attention to the return of the displaced people through the reconstruction of their devastated cities by the battles against terrorism, the statement said.

Earlier in the day, the chief of the French diplomacy said during his meeting with his Iraqi counterpart Ibrahim al-Jaafari that France will continue to support Iraq after the defeat of IS group and is looking forward to participate in rebuilding Iraq, according to a statement by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry.

"I have come to Baghdad to emphasize our continued support to the Iraqi people in various fields and look forward to contributing to the reconstruction of the infrastructure of the Iraqi cities," the statement quoted Le Drian as saying after his meeting with Jaafari.

Le Drian also said that his country is committed to rebuild the University of Mosul, which was badly damaged by the fierce battles against the extremist IS militants, and expressed France's readiness to open new horizons to strengthen bilateral relations, the statement said.

The chief of the French diplomacy revealed that the French President Emmanuel Macron will visit Baghdad during the coming period, it said.

For his part, Jaafari said that Iraq "will not forget the friendly countries that stood by his side and supported him in humanitarian, military and service fields, and we are looking forward to their contribution to the reconstruction of the infrastructure of Iraqi cities," according to the statement.

As for the conference of Iraq's reconstruction held in Kuwait, Jaafari confirmed "we count on the active presence of the international community at the donor conference in Kuwait, and the continuation (of the world) to stand by the Iraqi people," the statement added.

"The partnership between Iraq and France is very important and we must make more efforts to activate common interests and face common risks," Jaafari concluded.

In the evening, Le Drian flew to Erbil, the capital of the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan to meet with the Kurdish leaders, and was received by the regional Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, according to the Kurdish NRT satellite channel.

Le Drian's visit came as Kuwait's international conference for reconstruction of Iraq was kicked off earlier in the day and is scheduled to end on Feb. 14.

In Kuwait's conference donor countries and organizations are expected to announce financial contributions at the meeting amid great aspirations by the Iraqis who are eager for a positive outcome that will help rebuild their war-torn country.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 04:18:10|Editor: yan

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LAGOS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Nigeria on Monday reassured Cameroon that its territory would not be used as a staging area to destabilize Cameroon.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari made the pledge in a communique issued at the end of the 6th session of the Cameroon-Nigeria Trans-Border Security Committee held in Abuja, Nigeria's capital.

"Series of political events in the two countries have led to new security challenges threatening the peaceful co-existence along the common borders," he said.

The communique was signed by Brig.Gen. Emmanuel Ndagi, director of defense affairs at the Nigerian Office of the National Security Adviser, and Cameroonian Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization Rene Sadi.

The two countries agreed to cooperate in combating money laundering and financing of terrorism.

The two countries agreed to collaborate in sensitizing Nigerians living in Bakassi area to live in peace and to abide by the laws and regulations of their host country.

On border control operations, the committee recommended that the security agencies of the two countries should strengthen the fight against "crimes along the land and maritime borders."Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 04:18:12|Editor: yan

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BUDAPEST, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The growing importance of the contribution of Asia and China to the global economic growth was the focus of a session of the Lamfalussy Lectures Conference 2018 organized here on Monday by the Hungarian Central Bank MNB.

Alicia Herrero, senior fellow at European think-tank BRUEGEL, said: "Asia is dominating in contribution to global growth, middle class and even the corporate world now," underlining that "63 percent of global economic growth came from Asia, versus only 12 percent from Europe and 10 percent from North America."

She said China and India would continue to contribute more to global economic growth than the United States and much more than Europe. For these reasons, she explained that the improvement of European Union-China relations was a key to benefit from the "Asian century."

Herrero was followed by Park In-kook, president of the Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies. He noted that China had announced a shift from "quantity to quality" in terms of its economic growth.

"The urbanization rate is on the rise in China, over 56 percent, and the aim is to reach 60 percent by 2020, he underlined. "This means that 300 to 400 million people will escape the poverty trap and become middle class citizens."

Sandor Lamfalussy, whose name the conference bears, was a European economist of Hungarian origin who was often referred to as "the wise man of the euro" in professional circles in recognition of the crucial role he played in the establishment of the European Economic and Monetary Union.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 04:38:16|Editor: yan

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MOSCOW, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump and discussed the Middle East settlement, the Kremlin said Monday.

Putin revealed the phone call at the beginning of talks with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, a Kremlin statement said, adding that the Russian president forwarded Trump's "best wishes" to Abbas.

He was also quoted by Russian news agencies as saying that the situation in the region was far from satisfactory.

Abbas said Palestine refuses to cooperate "in any way" with the United States in their status as a mediator in the process of the Middle East settlement, citing recent U.S. actions such as the decision to move its embassy to Jerusalem, which was like "a slap in the face" for Palestine.

Palestine does not oppose to the mediation format of the settlement being multilateral, in which America can only serve as part of the group of mediators, he added.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 04:48:17|Editor: yan

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PORT-SUDAN, Sudan, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Inaugurated in 1989, Hadab Museum is the biggest museum that reflects the civilization of eastern Sudan and the heritage of its population groups.

Located some 64 km south of Port-Sudan, the capital city of the Red Sea State, the museum has been established by Mohamed Nur Hadab, a prominent figure in eastern Sudan.

The museum contains historical collections of various ages, including portraits, furniture, costumes, residential model and other folkloric works.

It also contains the collectibles of Prince Osman Digna, one of the leaders of the Mahdist Revolution (1881-1889).

"Through personal effort and from my own money, I established this museum, which is now 29 years old. It was inaugurated by President Omar al-Bashir on Sept. 29, 1989," Mohamed Nur Hadab, founder of the museum, told Xinhua.

"I have collected the rare archaeological pieces from different parts of eastern Sudan and put them in one place to become this museum which you see. It was not an easy task. It necessitated great effort and long time," he added.

He said all the archaeological collectibles are rare collectibles for important historical periods representing documentation for eastern Sudan civilization and the history of this area with its human heritage.

"I have other archaeological collections that have not yet been displayed. Some of them are made of gold and others of silver and copper. I also have some swords and engravings that refer to ancient historical periods," noted Hadab.

He further pointed out that the museum includes pottery tools that were used for various purposes, including drinking, cooking and food keeping, besides archaeological collectibles that form the basis of the traditional home in eastern Sudan during the past ages.

The walls of the museum are decorated with pictures of ancient houses built of coral stones besides carvings and woodwork.

Hadab urged the government authorities to support his project which tends to preserve the heritage of eastern Sudan and reflect it to the new generations.

"I was advised to abandon the idea and sell the piece of land on which the museum is built as it was financially exhausting," he said.

"Nevertheless, I'm adherent to my idea and my project, and I will generously fund it," he added, expressing hope for the government authorities to continue their concern and support.U.S. President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin talk during the family photo session at the APEC Summit in Danang, Vietnam November 11, 2017. (REUTERS PHOTO)

MOSCOW, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump and discussed the Middle East settlement, the Kremlin said Monday.

Putin revealed the phone call at the beginning of talks with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, a Kremlin statement said, adding that the Russian president forwarded Trump's "best wishes" to Abbas.

He was also quoted by Russian news agencies as saying that the situation in the region was far from satisfactory.

Abbas said Palestine refuses to cooperate "in any way" with the United States in their status as a mediator in the process of the Middle East settlement, citing recent U.S. actions such as the decision to move its embassy to Jerusalem, which was like "a slap in the face" for Palestine.

Palestine does not oppose to the mediation format of the settlement being multilateral, in which America can only serve as part of the group of mediators, he added.Emergency responders view the damage at the scene after an Amtrak passenger train collided with a freight train and derailed in Cayce, South Carolina, U.S., Feb. 4, 2018. (Xinhua/REUTERS)

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump released a long-promised 1.5 trillion U.S. dollars infrastructure initiative on Monday, aiming to rebuild the nation's outdated roads, railways and other public works.

The 53-page document details Trump's plans of how to fund the investments, shorten project permitting time, remove regulatory barriers, help rural areas, and improve worker training.

"Our Nation's infrastructure is in an unacceptable state of disrepair, which damages our country's competitiveness and our citizens' quality of life," Trump said in a letter to the Congress.

Trump ran for president in 2016 on the promise of a 1-trillion-dollar infrastructure updating plan, and vowed to make it happen in his first 100 days in office. The plan, however, was delayed because of health care issue and a tax cut bill.

On Monday, Trump met with several governors and state and local officials at the White House to ratchet up support. As the federal government owns little infrastructure across the country, the Trump initiative handles decision making authority to state and local governments.

"This will be a big week for Infrastructure," Trump tweeted on Monday morning. "After so stupidly spending 7 trillion in the Middle East, it is now time to start investing in OUR Country!"

Trump tweets on infrastructure development on Feb. 12, 2018. (Xinhua)

At the core of the plan is funding. The federal government will provide 200 billion dollars in the next 10 years to spur another 1.3 trillion dollars contributions from states and private investors, according to the initiative.

Analysts, however, doubted the feasibility of the ambitious plan, because for every dollar the federal government offers, other parties have to pay 6.5 dollars.

As for the 200 billion dollars, the White House said it will raise the money by cutting spending in other areas, including some transit and transportation funds it reckons as ineffective.

A staff member of Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) stands guard at the entrance of 125 Street Station in Harlem, New York, the United States on June 27, 2017. At least 34 people were injured from a subway derailment in upper Manhattan of New York city, fire officials said. (Xinhua/Yang Shilong)

It will now be up to Congress to debate the infrastructure proposal. Trump urged the Congress to draft and pass the infrastructure bill. Such legislation would need 60 votes for passage in the Senate, while the Republicans only hold 51 seats.

"Trump's plan is just another giveaway to corporations and wealthy developers at the expense of American workers, and it fails to address some of the most pressing infrastructure needs our country faces," the Democratic National Committee said.

Trump's infrastructure plan comes on the heels of a 1.5 trillion tax cut bill and a budget deal that will increase federal spending by 300 billion dollars over the next two years.

Given that the U.S. fiscal deficit will balloon over 1 trillion dollars next year, Republicans have been wary of another big spending measure, further reducing the possibility of passing the bill this year.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 04:58:19|Editor: yan

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UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- President of the UN General Assembly Miroslav Lajcak on Monday warned against sexual exploitation and abuse by UN peacekeepers.

"Protectors must protect. They cannot rape. They cannot abuse. They cannot exploit," Lajcak told the opening session of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations of the General Assembly. "If they do, they cannot get away with it. And, if they do, we must act."

"We owe it (the pledge of action) to the people around the world. And we owe it to the rest of our peacekeepers, who work to uphold the United Nations' values and principles."

A series of steps have been taken, by both the United Nations and national governments, said Lajcak, adding that more measures are needed because zero tolerance must be reflected in actions -- not words.

The UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo has received three new allegations of sexual exploitation involving military peacekeepers from South Africa, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Monday.

Those incidents allegedly took place in Sake, Beni and Goma in North Kivu province and involved adult victims, said Dujarric.

The United Nations has requested South Africa to dispatch investigators and to complete investigations within the reduced 90-day timeframe given the serious concerns raised by these allegations, said the spokesman.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 05:03:22|Editor: yan

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KHARTOUM, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Sudan on Monday officially declared resumption of border trade with South Sudan in implementation to directives by Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, Sudan Tribune reported.

A government delegation, led by Sudan's Trade Minister Hatim al-Sir, on Monday visited Sudan's White Nile State on the border with South Sudan to declare the resumption of the border trade between the two countries.

"This step will be one of the mechanisms to limit the smuggling of commodities," Sudan's Trade Minister Hatim al-Sir, was quoted in the report as saying.

He called for formulation of a unified vision between the two countries to reactivate the border trade and facilitate its movement.

"We reiterate our endeavor to develop the border trade with all the countries around us to create good ties," said al-Sir.

On April 15, 2014, Sudan decided to stop border trade with South Sudan, which has been suffering from a civil war since 2013.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 05:13:24|Editor: yan

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UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- President of the UN General Assembly Miroslav Lajcak on Monday stressed the importance of conflict prevention with regard to peacekeeping.

"The United Nations was created to save people from the horrors of war, not to react once those horrors are in motion," Lajcak told the opening session of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations of the General Assembly. "We can never lose sight of this. And we need to do more to translate it into everything the United Nations does -- from the work of UN country teams in the field to discussions between delegates in New York."

But he explained that more conflict prevention does not necessarily mean less peacekeeping. "Yes, earlier action for prevention could in some cases avoid the deployment of military missions. However, in others it could mean sending our blue helmets to less hostile environments. It could give them a chance to keep peace while it is still there, rather than to respond to its loss."

Prevention and peacekeeping do not have to be distinct activities, said Lajcak. "When it comes to conflict prevention, our focus is often on special political missions, mediation teams, or the UN's good offices. But, prevention must be a UN-wide activity."

Peacekeepers often work in support of political, or mediation, processes. They have key relationships with national actors. They can help to flag early warning signs of conflict. "The fact is: prevention is already part of our peacekeeping."

He cited as examples the success stories in Liberia and Abyei, a disputed region between Sudan and South Sudan.

In the run-up to last year's elections in Liberia, the UN mission mobilized to calm tensions and prevent an upsurge in violence. UN blue helmets were instrumental in Liberia's peaceful transition of power, said Lajcak.

UN personnel in Abyei are doing innovative work. They are engaging closely with local communities to prevent conflict. And this has allowed the area to remain relatively stable despite the volatility surrounding it, he said.

"We need to see even more of these best practices. We need a stronger prevention focus throughout all missions."

This will mean ensuring that they can rapidly deploy and adapt in response to warning signs of conflict. It will mean developing tools for conflict mapping and analysis, including at the local-level. And it will mean strengthening capacity for prevention and mediation, across the board.

Lajcak also stressed the need for a more inclusive approach to peacekeeping.

When it comes to gender, some progress has been made, he said. In late 2016, half of all UN peacekeeping missions included military gender advisers. And, these advisers reported directly to the highest levels of mission management. Furthermore, many countries have made public commitments to increase their deployments of women, he noted.

"But this cannot distract us from the reality. Which is that, when it comes to gender, peacekeeping is in a bad state. We do not have enough women troops. We do not have enough women police. We do not have enough women military observers. And, we do not have enough of a gender perspective mainstreamed throughout our peacekeeping work -- neither in the field, nor at headquarters."

"We need to ask ourselves why. We need to talk frankly about this issue. And we need to take proactive steps toward a new reality."

Inclusive peacekeeping is not just about gender, he said. It is also about ensuring more participation, and more partnerships, with actors outside UN missions. This includes regular liaison with UN country teams. It also involves greater links with regional and sub-regional organizations, particularly on the African continent. And it means more engagement with civil society, and local communities -- with a particular focus on young people.

"This is how our missions will strengthen their situational awareness. It is how they will gain expertise and insight. And it is how they will build trust among the people they are sent to protect."Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 05:13:24|Editor: yan

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LAGOS, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- A former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Kingsley Moghalu, on Monday announced his interest to run for the presidency in 2019.

Moghalu told reporters in Lagos, Nigeria's economic hub, that time had come for technocrats, intellectuals and experienced people to take power from Nigeria's career politicians.

The former banker said politics in Nigeria should be detribalized for Africa's most populous nation to grow and take its rightful place in the comity of nations.

He said zoning, which had been used by the major political parties, might have been relevant in the past but that it is no longer necessary because competence should be placed above tribe in present-day Nigeria.

Moghalu did not say which party he will be representing in the race.

Speaking on a second term for President Muhammadu Buhari, Moghalu said the president has constitutional rights to seek re-election.

He said Nigeria must look beyond continued dependence on oil and encourage independent institutions to flourish.

Moghalu, who served as central bank deputy governor from 2009 to 2014, is a political economist, lawyer and a former United Nations official.

He was also a professor of practice in international business and public policy at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in Massachusetts, the United States.

Born on May 7, 1963, Moghalu is a graduate of the London School of Economics.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 05:18:26|Editor: yan

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KUWAIT CITY, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to support the humanitarian situation in Iraq recommended Monday to implement humanitarian and development programs, worth 335 million U.S. dollars, in Iraqi areas affected by armed conflicts.

The NGOs conference kicked off on Monday as a part of the three-day Kuwait International Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq (KICRI).

In its final communique, participants emphasized on the need to have such programs distributed in areas of health, shelter, education, rehabilitation and other humanitarian fields, stressing the need to respond to the humanitarian situation in Iraq, particularly in affected areas.

They stressed importance of setting up a mechanism to follow up on the outcome of the conference and the implementation of these humanitarian programs.

Participants called on donor organizations to implement and supervise the programs in cooperation and coordination with Iraqi local authorities, in order to promote the principle of transparency and to make maximum use of those relief and development programs.

Participants stressed the need to continue to consolidate and strengthen humanitarian partnership efforts in adopting relief programs to support basic needs of Iraqis, and to help displaced Iraqis in various areas.

The conference also highlighted the importance of prioritizing relief and development programs to the most affected areas while not neglecting the rest of the affected areas.

The NGOs called on the Iraqi government to expand its support and facilities for NGOs to carry out their humanitarian responsibilities in the implementation of relief and development programs.

They called on Iraqi authorities to provide accurate information and data on the humanitarian situation in Iraq and to draw up plans, programs, and priorities regarding the humanitarian situation there.

The three-day KICRI kicked off Monday in Kuwait City, which brought together several economic powers, as well as regional and international organizations, to make contributions to rebuilding Iraq after many years of war and conflict that ripped through various parts of the country.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 05:23:28|Editor: yan

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HAVANA, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Cuban government has replaced Josefina Vidal, head of U.S. relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who chaired the island's delegation during the talks to restore formal ties with the U.S.

A government statement published on Monday announced that Vidal's position will be taken by the "experienced diplomat" Carlos Fernandez de Cossio.

"Fernandez de Cossio is one of the most complete Cuban diplomats," said Johana Tablada, the deputy head of U.S. relations, on Twitter.

A former ambassador to Canada and South Africa, Fernandez de Cossio already held this position at the U.S. office during the 1990s, at a time of great tension between Washington and Havana.

According to the statement, Vidal handed over her duties to Fernandez de Cossio on Feb. 9 after a formal ceremony.

"In her almost 12 years at the Directorate-General of the U.S. Office, Josefina Vidal carried out her complex job with efficiency, talent and sensibility," read the statement.

Josefina Vidal was considered the Cuban face of the long process of negotiations that concluded in the restoration of U.S.-Cuba diplomatic relations in August 2015.

After 54 years of political enmity, respective embassies in Havana and Washington were re-opened, and former president Barack Obama visited the Caribbean nation in March 2016.

However, relations have soured once again since President Donald Trump promised to roll back formal ties "in search of a better deal with Havana."

Thus, Fernandez de Cossio returns to his previous office in similar conditions to those he had to deal with two decades ago.

The statement did not clarify what functions Vidal will be taking on.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 05:38:33|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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RABAT, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Inspector General of the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces (FAR), Fathallah El Ouarrak, and Vice-Minister for National Defence of the Republic of Mozambique, Patricio Jose, on Monday discussed in Rabat means to cement bilateral military cooperation.

The talks touched on prospects to create conditions conducive to reinforcing bilateral cooperation between the Royal Armed Forces and Mozambique's armed forces in the different areas, mainly regarding training and visit exchanges, according to a statement by FAR's general staff.

Patricio Jose is on a working visit to Morocco on Feb. 11-14, along with an important civil and military delegation.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 05:43:34|Editor: yan

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RAMALLAH, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian presidency warned on Monday that any unilateral steps related to Israeli annexation of West Bank settlements will not change the reality since "settlements are illegal."

Presidential Spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh said in an official statement, released by official Wafa news agency, that any step in this regard would only result in more tension and instability.

His remarks came in response to media reports that Israel is discussing legislation with the United States to annex settlements in the West Bank.

Such moves would destroy every international effort to save the peace process, the spokesman said.

He added that no party has the right to discuss the situation in the Palestinian territories, as it contradicts with all international resolutions stipulating that the Palestinian territories occupied in 1967, including East Jerusalem, are land of the State of Palestine.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that he is discussing with the U.S. administration an initiative to annex Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

Meanwhile, the White House denied on Monday Netanyahu's claims.

Peace talks between the Palestinians and Israel have been stalled since 2014 after nine months of U.S.-sponsored negotiations.

The talks have not led to any serious breakthrough to end decades-old conflict due to deep differences over settlements, borders and security.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 06:13:40|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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ROME, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Now is not the time for Italy to stray off the path of reform, which has brought the country out of recession, Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni said Monday.

The center-left premier made the remarks at the signing of a credit recovery protocol by Italian industrialists association Confindustria and the Italian Banking Association (ABI) to free up financing for small and medium businesses, the backbone of Italy's economy.

Gentiloni said businesses need a favorable economic climate, confidence, and above all, credit -- the "essential oxygen for their activity".

"Now is not the time to stop being committed to rigor, competence and reform," the center-left premier added.

"Italy does not need to derail and throw away the work done in the past few years," he said in an apparent warning to opposition parties ahead of a March 4 general election.

Credit to businesses stokes economic growth, generating jobs and reducing social inequalities, Gentiloni concluded.

The agreement, also known as the Marciano Pact, will act as an "accelerator" to the process of shedding non-performing loans (NPLs), said Economy Minister Pier Carlo Padoan, who also attended the signing of the agreement at the premier's office in Rome.

NPLs accumulated on Italian banks' books as a result of the global financial crisis of 2007. Large numbers of NPLs can choke a country's economy because banks are no longer willing to lend money to businesses.

The center-left Gentiloni government, as well as the previous administration of Matteo Renzi, fielded a number of reforms that succeeded in shoring up the country's credit and financial system.

Net NPLs "fell from 86 billion euros in December 2016 to 64 billion euros in 2017" thanks to government efforts, pointed out Padoan, who served under both center-left administrations.

A January 2018 bulletin from the Bank of Italy saw an "expansion of credit" to families and businesses and a drop in existing and new NPLs.

At the same time, Italy's industrial production rose by 4.9 percent in December 2017 compared to December 2016, according to ISTAT statistics agency.

"Recent evidence confirms that this is a virtuous cycle and we are approaching a return to normality in the banking system, which is not just the pre-crisis normality but a reinforced one," Padoan said on Monday.

ABI Director Giovanni Sabatini said the accord will "ensure better credit" to businesses through a "modern, innovative and flexible system of guarantees...that will put us in line with European best practices".

"It will give a further impulse to Italian banks' ongoing process of shedding their NPLs," Sabatini said, pointing to a 25 percent reduction in the stock of net deteriorated loans in 2017.

Citing a 30 percent rise in private investments and a 7 percent rise in exports, Confindustria President Vincenzo Boccia said "we are here in a spirit of great loyalty, because we know the success of your government has been the success of our country".

However, according to a January 18 report by CGIA think tank, large companies, not small and medium businesses, are getting the lion's share of bank credit.

The top 10 percent of credit applicants by company size obtained 79.8 percent of total bank loans (1.5 billion euros) extended as of September 30 last year, CGIA said based on central bank data.

"The remaining 90 percent of clients obtain just over 20 percent of loans," according to the CGIA report.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 06:33:43|Editor: yan

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ROME, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Italy's populist Five Star Movement (M5S) was at the center of controversy Monday after an investigative news report revealed some of its elected officials may have lied about mandatory reimbursements of their stipends.

The M5S prides itself on being honest and transparent, unlike Italy's traditional parties, which it claims are all corrupt.

Under M5S internal regulations, members who are elected to public office -- whether at the local, regional, national, or European level -- must give back half of their monthly salaries to the Italian finance ministry.

The reimbursements are paid into a ministry-run fund for small and medium businesses. On Sunday night, the M5S website stated its elected officials have "given back" almost 38 million euros, of which just over 25 million has been given back by MPs.

However there are significant discrepancies between the reimbursements Five Star MPs claimed to have made and the amounts that showed up in the fund, an ex-M5S activist who wished to remain anonymous told Le Iene (Reservoir Dogs) satirical investigative news show in an episode that streamed online Sunday night.

"There are members of parliament who claim they wire money from their personal accounts into the small and medium business fund, but this is not true," the source told Le Iene.

"The overall amount in the fund is far lower than what they declare -- by a lot of money," he said, adding the number of MPs posting fake wires on the Movement website is "in the double digits".

"They say they're Robin Hood, but actually they're the Sheriff of Nottingham," the source said in reference to the legendary character who stole from the rich to give to the poor.

The source named two prominent Five Star MPs, both of them candidates in the March 4 general election: former Five Star whip in the Lower House, Andrea Cecconi, and Senator Carlo Martelli, who sat on the Lower House Commission of Inquiry into the banking crisis.

Between them, Cecconi and Martelli pretended to reimburse nearly 100,000 euros by filing a total of 31 fake wire transfers, the source claimed.

When confronted by Le Iene, both MPs denied the accusation and dropped out of sight, refusing follow-up calls and in one case, shutting down their Facebook account, Le Iene reported.

M5S prime minister candidate Luigi Di Maio initially dismissed the claims as "just an accounting problem", but later on Sunday both Cecconi and Martelli were made to withdraw as candidates in the March 4 election.

The controversy swirled into Monday, with Di Maio assuring reporters that he would "find the rotten apples and kick them out".

As the day wore on, Five Star staffers admitted to ANSA news agency that "more money is missing than initially reported by the press". The amount could be over 1 million euros, ANSA reported late on Monday.Source: Xinhua| 2018-02-13 06:48:45|Editor: yan

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- U.S. State Department announced to provide a considerate amount of 3.3 billion U.S. dollars in Foreign Military Financing to Israel in its Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 budget proposal.

U.S. President Donald Trump has requested 39.3 billion dollars for the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) budget in the FY 2019.

According to a fact sheet offered by the State Department on Monday, that agency will allocate 3.3 billion U.S. dollars in Foreign Military Financing for Israel.

"The Administration is also prioritizing funding for a U.S. Embassy facility in Jerusalem which will begin once design and construction plans are finalized," according to the document.

The United State will also provide 1.3 billion U.S. dollars in economic and security assistance to Jordan, and 5.7 billion in defeating the Islamic State and violent extremist organizations in the Middle East and North Africa.

Besides, 1.1 billion U.S. dollars will go to support efforts to reduce illegal immigration from Latin America.

The budget request supports Trump's "America First" vision with a commitment to four key national priorities, namely, protecting the U.S. security at home and abroad, renewing its competitive advantage for sustained economic growth and job creation, promoting its leadership through balanced engagement and ensuring effectiveness and accountability to the U.S. taxpayer.

In response to the budget proposal, U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, who is now in a visit to Egypt, said in an announcement that the budget request upholds the national security strategy that Trump announced in December.

The Trump administration in December, 2017 announced to recognize Jerusalem as the Israeli capital, saying it plans to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to the city that the Palestinians also claimed as its capital.

Trump's decision has sparked global condemnation. In response, Washington suspended its funding for the Palestinian refugees in a bid to force Palestinians to accept the U.S.-deliberated peace plan in Middle East, which was rejected by the Palestinian side.

It has rebuffed Washington's qualification for further mediating the Palestine-Israel peace negotiation, questioning the latter's objectivity in the process.Coun Perez reiterates warning to barangay leaders involved in drugs

07 Aug 2017 Hits:37 Comments(0)

Liga ng mga Barangay President, Councilor Jerry Perez yesterday reiterated his warning to all barangay officials from using or selling drugs. Perez said he is closely monitoring the activities of all the barangay officials and vowed sanctions against erring leaders. Aqui gane na mio barangay ya quita ya iyo na puesto cunel dos barangay leaders quien mas temprano ya sale positivo na...MANILA, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- To welcome the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year of the Dog, the animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) on Sunday urged Filipinos to adopt a dog.

On Monday, members of PETA will take to the streets of Manila's Chinatown Binondo brandishing signs that read, "Happy Year of the Dog. Adopt, Don't Shop." Binondo is the world's oldest Chinatown.

Jana Sevilla of PETA told Xinhua that Monday's event is to encourage tourists and shoppers to adopt dogs from the local shelter or rescue groups instead of buying purebreds from pet stores or breeders, "which simply serves to exacerbate the homeless- animal crisis."

She said animal homelessness is becoming a serious problem in the Philippines. "The campaign is to help end the problem of animal homelessness," Sevilla said.

"City pounds and shelters are bursting at the seams with special dogs just waiting for their new families to find them and take them home," PETA Vice President Jason Baker said in a statement.

Indeed, Sevilla said "askals, or asong Pinoys (street dogs), are healthier than their purebred counterparts and have wonderfully loyal and loving spirits, which is why PETA encourages everyone who's ready to provide a dog with a lifetime of love and care, to celebrate the Year of the Dog by adopting a one-of-a kind mixed-breed friend."

On the street, Sevilla said homeless animals face starvation, extreme weather, disease, traffic, and cruel people.

"That's why PETA recommends that anyone who has the time and resources to provide an animal with a good home should adopt one from a shelter or rescue group and always have their animals sterilized," she said.

There is no available statistics on how many dogs or cats are roaming the streets, but Sevilla said, "There are just too many."

"If you go just outside your house for sure you'll find a homeless cat, or a homeless dog. In more depressed areas in the Philippines, there are so many homeless dogs and also cats," she said.

Sevilla said the street is not the safest place for the animals. "We always get reports of cruelty, a lot of dogs and cats die from starvation or they get run over by vehicles and die a slow and painful death," she said, adding when they get sick they can't get the necessary treatment because they are homeless.

Since the animals don't have any guardians who will care for them, she said these animals "can multiply really, really fast."

"That's why the population of homeless animals keeps on increasing by leaps and bounds," Sevilla said.

Sevilla said adopting dogs and cats is becoming popular in the Philippines. In fact, she said there are now different rescue groups in the country.

"Some of the rescue groups are even formed through social media, and then a lot of them find homes for these rescued animals," Sevilla said.

Sevilla said PETA is hoping that more dogs will get adopted in 2018, as it is the Year of the Dog in the Chinese zodiac calendar.

The Philippines is one of the many countries in Asia that uses the Chinese zodiac system, which rotates through 12 animal signs for each different year.

Sevilla urged Filipinos to adopt "askals, or asong Pinoys" or stray dogs that have made the streets their home.

"What we want people to realize is that all dogs are capable of loving, of being loyal and of providing very good companionship and we don't need to keep on breeding purebred dogs because it's not helping with the problem of animal homelessness."

Cristina Blacer, a resident of a gated exclusive subdivision in Quezon City, hailed the PETA campaign.

In her street, she said five stray, homeless dogs roam freely night and day. "There used to be two and they gave birth to three others. Now, there are five. I wish I could adopt them all," Blacer, who already owns two dogs, told Xinhua.Islamabad: The deputy chief of the Pakistani Taliban has been killed in a US drone strike, the militant group said in a statement Monday, as Washington continues to intensify attacks along the Afghan border region.

Khalid Mehsood, deputy leader of the umbrella Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), died after the pre-dawn strike in North Waziristan tribal agency on February 8, the militants said in the emailed statement.

The group`s leaders have nominated Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud to take his place, the statement said, adding Mehsud has "undeterring trust" in Pakistani Taliban leader Maulana Fazlullah.

US officials in Islamabad had no immediate comment. Much of the border with Pakistan`s northwestern tribal areas is off-limits to foreign journalists, and strikes along the porous frontier are difficult to verify.

The statement comes as the US has massively stepped up its air offensive in eastern Afghanistan, targeting Taliban drug labs and Islamic State hideouts as President Donald Trump looks to the sky to force the insurgents to the table.

But militants have reacted violently, launching a wave of deadly attacks across the war-torn country, including in Kabul, in a devastating display of defiance.

Officials admit the US strategy is not without risk, and the longer it runs the more costs will accrue.

More bombing almost invariably means more civilian casualties, which could further mobilise Afghans against the United States.CHENNAI: The portrait of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa was unveiled at the state Assembly by speaker P. Dhanapal amid bitter opposition from rival Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

Boycotting the event, DMK on Sunday claimed that the former CM was "convicted" in a disproportionate assets case.

The party on Monday filed a petition against the incident in the Madras High Court.

Terming it a 'black day' in the history of the Assembly, DMK working president M K Stalin said that his party would not take part in the programme.

Stalin claimed the Speaker of the House does not have the authority or moral right to unveil the portrait and said it was his duty to request Dhanapal not to do so.

In a series of tweets, All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) convenor and state Chief Minister O Panneerselvam praised Jayalalithaa's contribution and expressed pain over her untimely demise.

       ,  ,

  .  ,       ,   , ,     .  O Panneerselvam (@OfficeOfOPS) February 12, 2018

The AIADMK matron had died on December 5, 2016.

Other opposition parties, including the CPI(M), joined the DMK in opposing the AIADMK's move.

CPI(M) State Secretary G Ramakrishnan said, "It will be a wrong precedent to unveil the portrait of a person who was convicted in the disproportionate assets case. We urge the Tamil Nadu government to give up this step."

With agency inputsNew Delhi: India and Oman have signed eight agreements as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with the Sultan of the country.

Modi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said. After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

More than nine million Indians work and live in the Gulf region. In Oman, they constitute the largest expatriate community.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.

Here is the list of Agreements/MoUs signed by India and Oman

1. Agreement on Legal and Judicial Cooperation in Civil and Commercial matter

2. Agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, Special, service and official passports

3. MoU on Cooperation in the field of health

4. MoU on Cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space.

5. MoU on Cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman Diplomatic Institute.

6. MoU on Academic and Scholarly cooperation sectors between National Defence College Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and the Analyses.

7. MoU in the field of Tourism cooperation between India and Oman.

8. Annexure to the MoU on Military Cooperation.New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday joined the India-Oman business meet and talked about India's economic prowess and the investment opportunities in the country.

India and Oman have signed eight agreements, including on cooperation in the field of defence, health and tourism, as Modi held wide-ranging talks with the Sultan of the country.

The two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation.

More than nine million Indians work and live in the Gulf region. In Oman, they constitute the largest expatriate community.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.

With PTI InputsNew Delhi: Staff Selection Commission (SSC) is expected to release the result of scientific assistant in India Meteorological Department (IMD) examination on Tuesday.

The commission had issued a notification earlier confirming that the written exam result will be declared on February 13, 2018.

There are 1102 posts for this recruitment. In order to check the result after they are declared, candidates should visit the official website - ssc.nic.in.

The computer-based open competitive examination was held from 22-11-2017 to 25-11-2017 at different centres all over the country.

The exams consisted of two hours having two parts and comprised of 200 questions carrying 200 marks.

As per the official website, "the vision and mission of SSC is to select suitable candidates for the government in an objective and transparent manner at the group B (non-gazetted) and group C (non-technical) levels and to develop recruitment processes which will enable recruitment of manpower conducive for good governance."

It is also "to ensure total objectivity and impartiality in the recruitment of personnel for the government and to provide suitable and adequate manpower in time to the user organisations."CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) is likely to release the official answer key of TNPSC Group 4 or VAO examination by this week. Candidates will be able to access it by visiting the commission's official website - tnpsc.gov.in this week.

The examination was held on February 11 in 301 centres across Tamil Nadu. While around 16 lakh candidates appeared for the recruitment test, more than 20 lakh aspirants had registered for the examination to fill a total of 9351 vacancies.

TNPSC VAO or Group 4 answer keys is slated to be released on or before Tuesday. The test is conducted to select candidates for various posts for Tamil Nadu Ministerial Service, Tamil Nadu Judicial Ministerial Service, Tamil Nadu Survey and Land Records Subordinate Service and Tamil Nadu Secretariat Service.

Steps to check TNPSC Group 4 VAO Answer Key:

- Visit tnpsc.gov.in

- Click on 'Result' and then on 'answer key section'

- Click on 'TNPSC VAO Answer key 2017'

The answer key will be displayed on the screen. The candidates are suggested to download the same for further reference.New Delhi: In the first recorded case of its kind in medical literature, doctors removed a tiny sea snail from inside an 11-year-old's abscess.

The boy, it appeared, had grazed his elbow while playing in a tidal pool in California, which harbors thousands of molluscs. Doctors believe that a snail egg must have found its way into the wound, hatched and then grew, triggering an abscess  a painful collection of pus caused by an infection  before it was removed.

The team of doctors at the Loma Linda University's pediatrics department was highly intrigued after they stumbled across the bizarre case and published it in the journal BMJ Case Reports.

According to a report in the Daily Mail, the doctors said: 'An extensive literature review of major medical and scientific databases... was performed.

'We found no documented case reports in medical literature of... marine snails living inside a bacterial skin abscess for any length of time.'

In 2013, a similar case of a four-year-old boy was documented, who also had a snail hatch inside him.

As per the Daily Mail, Paul Franklin picked up the tiny crustacean he later nicknamed Turbo when he grazed his knee while falling on the rocks during a holiday.

However, doctors never mentioned it in any medical journal, despite the case making headlines, for unknown reasons.

Highlighting the similarities between the two cases, doctors suggested that the possibility of the snail entering the body, in the same way, was high.

In the present case, the 11-year-old Hispanic boy visited an outpatient clinic with a 'blister' on his left elbow.

A week after he got the lesion, the boy noticed it had slowly been growing in size and he became concerned.

On questioning, the boy explained that he had been exploring tide pools San Pedro  seven miles (11km) away from Long Beach  when he slipped on a rock and grazed his elbow.

While his symptoms  no pain and no itching  indicated that it was clearly an infection, doctors, after closer inspection, decided to drain the pus on the boy's elbow using a sterile needle.

They removed a small amount of pus - but were shocked to discover a 'small, darkly colored foreign body'.

A sea snail and its shell, measuring 4mm in diameter, were removed from the lump. It was then sent for tests to confirm its identity.

Dr Albert Khait, who published the case, revealed they dished out antibiotics to the boy and his wound had fully healed a week later.

Doctors said the boy's abscess was a 'hostile environment' for a snail because of its ability to seal moisture within its shell, which is why it survived.

Most skin abscesses are caused by harmless bacteria that humans carry on their skin, but occasionally can be triggered, more unusual, ways.

A slight graze, like what the boy endured after falling on the rocks, can open the door to parasites or opportunistic organisms, such as a tiny snail.

The chequered periwinkle, found along the western coast of the US, Mexico, and Canada, can grow up to 15mm in diameter.

Paediatricians in Los Angeles allowed the 'visibly excited' boy to keep the snail when it was removed so he could share his tale with his friends.New Delhi: A volcano in Japan that erupted approximately 7,300 years ago, burying most of the archipelago in thick ash, has been silently preparing to make a powerful comeback, it appears.

The Akahoya eruption  known as the strongest volcanic explosions  took place when the Kikai Caldera in Kyushu, Japan, erupted, spewing about 150 cubic kilometers (36 cu mi) of volcanic material.

The blast was so powerful it caused the volcanos magma chamber to collapse, leaving a 12-mile wide scar, which is mostly underwater.

Now, as per a study published on Friday, scientists have discovered a dome of lava that lurks beneath the caldera.

Its magma plumbing could provide volcanologists with an insight into the entire caldera system, that could help them predict future eruptions that might occur in the Japanese archipelago.

The most serious problem that we are worrying about is not an eruption of this lava dome, but the occurrence of the next supereruption, said Yoshiyuki Tatsumi a volcanologist at Kobe University in Japan and lead author of the study that appeared in the journal Scientific Reports, according to The New York Times.

Previous analysis conducted by Dr Tatsumi shows just a one percent possibility of a supereruption in the Japanese archipelago in the next century. But, in case it does happen, it could eject nearly 10 cubic miles of magma, covering almost all of the country and its 120 million people in nearly eight inches of thick ash.

As per The New York Times, Dr Tatsumi and his colleagues at the Kobe Ocean Bottom Exploration Center conducted three surveys of the caldera, during which they used remotely operated vehicles to observe the depression. On their trips, they investigated the caldera using seismic analysis as well as geological and electromagnetic tests. They found the lava dome using an acoustic survey.

The trapped build-up of lava that threatens to erupt is estimated to have a volume of about eight cubic miles, a diameter of about six miles and a height of almost 2,000 feet.

This underwater dome has an immense volume of lava, more than the Yellowstone caldera and the Long Valley caldera, which have also been brewing with activity.

This site has experienced at least three supereruptions  one 140,000 years ago, another 95,000 years ago, and then the Akahoya eruption.

Scientists are yet to ascertain the exact time when the dome began to form  immediately after the eruption or gradually during the following years.

However, they did find that the lava dome was made of similar magma to what is seen in volcanoes on nearby islands.

Dr. Tatsumi said another survey in March will gather high-resolution images of the underground magma system, The New York Times reported.Jammu/Srinagar: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said that terrorists who attacked an Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir enjoyed some local support and had handlers across the border. She also said that Pakistan will have have to pay for the misadventure.

"The counter-terrorist operation in Sunjuwan was called off today (Monday) at 10.30 am, however, the sanitisation operation is on. There have been six fatal casualties, including a civilian. Three terrorists have been eliminated. There were reports of four terrorists. The fourth terrorist must have been a guide and may not have entered the camp area," she said.

The Defence Minister added, "Terrorists belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, sponsored by Azhar Masood residing in Pakistan and deriving support from there in."

"All the evidence collected have been compiled. Definitely, they will be given to Pakistan. Even after giving dossiers after dossiers Pakistan has not taken any action," she said.

"Giving the evidence to Pakistan will be a continuous process. It will have to be proved over and over again that they are responsible. Pakistan will have to pay for this misadventure. Intelligence inputs show that terrorists were controlled by their handlers from across the border. Pakistan is expanding the arch of terror to areas south of Pir Panjal and resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration," Sitharaman further said, as per ANI.

She also met those injured in the Sunjuwan Army camp attack at the Military Hospital in Jammu.

Our heart goes out to our courageous soldiers who sacrifice so much for the safety of the nation. Visiting the Military Hospital in Jammu, Smt @nsitharaman meets those injured in the Sunjuwan attack. pic.twitter.com/RYioM4NxoR  Raksha Mantri (@DefenceMinIndia) February 12, 2018

A group of heavily armed men struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry before dawn on February 10, 2018. Five Army men, including two Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), were martyred in the attack.

Earlier Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday pitched afresh for a dialogue between India and Pakistan to end the violence in the restive state.

"If Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti say hold talks with Pakistan, they are dubbed anti-national. There is no alternative (to resolve the issue) except by holding talks," she told the state Assembly on the concluding day of the budget session.

"If we (the Kashmiris) don't talk about it (dialogue), who will? Not a Bihari, not a Punjabi," Mufti added. "Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end the bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors but that doesn't matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option," she later tweeted.

Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option.  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) February 12, 2018

Mufti also met the Defence Minister and briefed about the security situation in the state.

Met Defense Minister @nsitharaman ji & briefed her about the security situation in J&K. pic.twitter.com/JFc1TMJkdZ  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) February 12, 2018

Meanwhile, a CRPF constable was killed in a gunfight with terrorists in downtown Srinagar after security forces foiled attempts by terrorists to strike a CRPF camp on Monday.

Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba claimed responsibility for the attack on the CRPF camp. Its Kashmir chief Mehmood Shah claimed in an e-mailed statement that the attack was perpetrated by its activists, PTI reported.

The heavily-armed militants tried to strike the CRPF camp, located very close to SMHS Hospital from where LeT terrorist Naveed Jutt alias Abu Hanzala was freed from police custody by terrorists on February 6, 2018.

(With Agency inputs)Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to address school students from class 6 and class 12 during a Pariksha Pe Charcha programme on February 16, ahead of the board examinations which begin in the first week of March. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a directive for all schools ahead of the same to ensure maximum reach of the event.

The CBSE board has issued a circular to schools mentioning that the interactive event will be held from 10.30 am to noon on February 16. According to the circular, students from class 9 to class 12 can ask questions to PM Modi. All the questions need to be within 100 words and submitted on mygov.in website for selection.

Schools have also been asked to arrange television sets, internet, radio sets etc for smooth transmission and broadcast of the programme. The programme is slated to be broadcast by DD News, DD National and DD India. Live webcasts will also be done through websites of PMO, HRD Ministry, Doordarshan, YouTube and mygov.in.

The schools have also been asked to click pictures and record 2-minute video clips of students attending the event, and they need to be submitted to CBSE board office by February 17, reported Prabhat Khabar.

A similar session was held for teachers in 2014, months after Narendra Modi took over as Prime Minister.

In order to reach out to the students and prepare them to face the difficulties ahead of their exams, PM Modi has also authored a book, Exam Warriors. The Prime Minister has listed 25 mantras for students in his book "Exam Warriors", which hit the bookstores last weekend on the verge of final examinations in schools.

The book, a little over 200 pages thick, has been published by Penguin Random House India.

It is a collection of anecdotes from the PM's school days and snippets from his monthly radio address "Mann Ki Baat" on coping with study stress.

"Trying to become someone is a conventional path.... Take the road less travelled," he says in the book. "Be a warrior, not a worrier," reads another idea.Hyderabad: Iran`s President Hassan Rouhani, who is visiting India this week, will offer Friday prayers at the historic Makkah Masjid here and will also address the gathering, officials said.

Rouhani, who will be reaching here directly from Iran on Thursday, will attend various programmes during his two-day stay before proceeding to New Delhi.

After his arrival on Thursday evening, the Iranian President will interact with selected `ulema` or religious scholars of both Shia and Sunni sects, intellectuals, and academicians.

The next day, Rouhani will offer Friday prayers at Makkah Masjid, a 17th-century mosque, located near the historic Charminar in the Muslim-majority old city. After `Namaz-e-Juma`, the Iranian leader will address the gathering, said an official at the Iranian consulate here.

The Iranian President will also visit Qutub Shahi tombs, a historic monument near Golconda Fort. He will pay tributes to the mausoleums of rulers of the Qutub Shahi dynasty (1518-1687), who were Shias. The 16th-17th-century necropolis has many mausoleums built in Persian architectural style.

Hyderabad has historic cultural links with Iran. The city, founded by Quli Qutub Shah, was designed on the lines of Iranian city Isfahan. Mir Momin Astrabadi, who had migrated from Iran, had prepared the design of Charminar and Hyderabad.

Rouhani is also likely to address a meeting of Iranians settled in Hyderabad.

The city has more than 1,000 Iranians, whose forefathers had migrated from Iran. Hyderabad is also home to the second largest Shia population in India after Lucknow.New Delhi: Reacting to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's remarks, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said on Monday that Army should be kept beyond politics and 'a bunch of young people with bamboo sticks and khaki shorts' should not be compared to the men in uniform.

"Quite shocked to hear him (Mohan Bhagwat) comparing Army unfavourably with the RSS. Really unworthy, Let us keep Army beyond politics. Let us not compare a bunch of young people with bamboo sticks and khaki shorts to Army," the Thiruvananthapuram MP said, as per ANI.

Earlier, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday criticised Bhagwat for his reported remark that the Sangh outfit could "prepare" military personnel faster than the Army, saying it was "absolutely wrong" and he should apologise for it.

"Mohan Bhagwat's remark is absolutely wrong, I'm pained hearing it. Our soldiers shed their blood, stand at the borders and work, they give their lives," he told reporters in Shahpur in the midst of his four-day campaign in poll-bound Karnataka.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

Addressing RSS workers meet in Bihar on Sunday, Bhagwat reportedly said, "Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability," PTI reported.

Statement of Dr. Manmohanji Vaidya regarding misrepresentation of Sarsangchalak Dr.Mohanji Bhagwat's speech at Muzzafarpur ( Bihar ) is at https://t.co/8UJvc6PCZ3 ; Video excerpt of what Mohanji actually said is here - https://t.co/0TAvSjs2Dh  RSS (@RSSorg) February 12, 2018

Meanwhile, the RSS clarified on Monday that Bhagwat had not compared the Indian Army with Sangh volunteers and his remarks on the matter were "misrepresented."

"Bhagwat's remarks were made as a comparison between common people and sangh swayamsevak (volunteers) and were in "no way a comparison" with the Indian Army, RSS Akhil Bhartiya Prachaar Pramukh Manmohan Vaidya said in a statement, seeking to douse the controversy.

"Bhagwat ji had said that if the situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian Army would take six months to prepare the society whereas sangh swayamsevak can be trained in three days as swayamsevak practice discipline regularly. This was no way a comparison between the Indian army and the Sangh swayamsevaks but it was a comparison between general society and swayamsevaks. Both are to be trained by the Indian Army only," the statement said.

(With Agency inputs)The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has issued a clarification on chief Mohan Bhagwats statement on Sanghs capability to form an Army in three days. Issuing a statement, Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh Manmohan Vaidya said that Bhagwats speech was being misrepresented.

According to the statement, "Bhagwat ji had said that if situation arises and the Constitution permits, Indian army would take six months to prepare the society whereas Sangh Swayamsevaks can be trained in three days, as Swayamsevaks practise discipline regularly."

Vaidya added that Bhagwats remark was not a comparison between the Indian Army and the Sangh Swayamsevaks, but a comparison between general society and swayamsevaks, when given the opportunity to be trained by the Indian Army.

This came after Congress president Rahul Gandhi, among other opposition leaders, hit out at the RSS chief over the statement. Terming it as an insult to every Indian, the Gandhi scion said that the comment disrespects our martyrs.

Taking to microblogging site Twitter, the Congress chief said, Shame on you Mr Bhagwat for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army, adding that the statement by the RSS chief insulted every soldier who ever saluted the national flag.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army, tweeted Rahul Gandhi.

During a public rally in Muzaffarpur in Bihar on Sunday, Bhagwat had said that the RSS had the ability to prepare an army to fight for the country within three days while the Army would do that in 6-7 months. He was addressing RSS workers at Zila school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur.

"Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsevak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so)," Bhagwat said.

Sangh is neither a military nor a para military organisation, rather it is like a "parivarik sangathan" (family organisation) where discipline is practised like the Army, he said adding that workers are always happily ready to make supreme sacrifice for their country.

Bhagwat exhorted the RSS workers to set an example of good conduct in their personal, family and social life.

(With agency inputs)Here are the top news headlines of the day:

1. On last leg of his tour, PM Narendra Modi to visit 300-year-old Shiva Temple in Muscat

Later in the day, the Prime Minister will be at the grand Sultan Qaboos Mosque which is built from 300,000 tonnes of Indian sandstone. He is also slated to meet a group of Omani CEOs. Read more



2. Heavily-armed terrorists approach Srinagar CRPF camp, combing operation underway

The terrorists were carrying bags and AK 47 guns. A search operation around the camp has been initiated. Read more

3. RaGa in Karnataka: Tribal rally, 2 public meetings on Congress chief's plate today

Continuing his maiden visit to poll-bound Karnataka after becoming the party chief, Rahul Gandhi will conduct a three-district tour of the Congress-ruled state on Monday. Read more

4. Tiger Zinda Hai: This throwback pic of Salman Khan will inspire you to pump iron

The still in question is of the gas-chamber and gun fight sequence from the spy-thriller which released last year on December 22. Read more

5. Caught on CCTV: Dalit Law student, out for restaurant meal, beaten to death in Allahabad

A second-year law student was beaten to death by a group of men outside a restaurant in Allahabad. The entire incident was caught on CCTV. Read more



6. Minor girl burnt alive for resisting rape in Madhya Pradesh

The accused tried to rape the minor on finding her alone at home. It was when the 13-year-old victim cried to protest, he attempted to kill her. Read more

7. London City Airport closed after WWII bomb found

The ordinance was discovered in King George V Dock, close to the runway of London`s most central airport, during planned works. Read more

8. 71 dead, no survivors in Russian passenger plane crash

Investigators said the Antonov An-148 plane went down in the Ramensky district on the outskirts of Moscow at 2:48 pm (1128 GMT) after taking off from Domodedovo airport in the capital. Read moreNew Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday arrived in India after completing his visits to Palestine, UAE and Oman. He was received by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Palam airport in #Delhi after completing his visit to Palestine, UAE & Oman; received by EAM Sushma Swaraj pic.twitter.com/J95JSVHU7C  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

#WATCH: PM Narendra Modi arrives in Delhi after concluding his three nation visit to Palestine, UAE and Oman. pic.twitter.com/8UFM1RQgTk  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

Earlier, PM Modi on Monday said his visit to Oman and talks with the oil-rich Gulf nation's top leadership will impart a "substantial momentum" to all spheres of bilateral ties.

"This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come," he had tweeted before concluding his two-day visit to Oman during which the two countries signed eight agreements, including one on enhancing defence cooperation.

"This visit has helped in building upon the centuries-old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations," PM Modi had added.

At the same time, he had expressed gratitude to the Sultan and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection.

PM Modi on Sunday night had held talks with Sultan Qaboos on a wide range of issues.

After their talks, the two sides had signed eight agreements, including a MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They had also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports.

Meanwhile, PM Modi offered prayers at the 125-year-old Shiva temple, one of the oldest in the region. He also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque in Oman.

On the first leg of his trip, he had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he had visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.

(With ANI and PTI inputs)Muscat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday offered prayers at the 125-year- old Shiva Temple in Muscat's Matrah area, one of the oldest in the region.

"Feeling extremely blessed to pray at the Shiva temple in Muscat," he tweeted.

Feeling extremely blessed to pray at the Shiva temple in Muscat. pic.twitter.com/8c0c0YEQPS  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 12, 2018

PM @narendramodi performed Abhishekam at the historic Lord Shiva temple at Muscat and interacted with the members of the Temple Management Committee. It was constructed 125 years back by the Merchant Community from Gujarat and renovated in 1999. pic.twitter.com/d9D7LpMsnK  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 12, 2018

The temple was constructed 125 years ago by the merchant community from Gujarat and was subsequently renovated in 1999.

It has three deities - Shri Adi Motishwar Mahadev, Shri Motishwar Mahadev and Shri Hanumanji. During auspicious days more than 15,000 devotees visit the temple for prayers.

The PM also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque of Oman. It was inaugurated in 2001.

Meanwhile, PM Modi on Monday said his visit to Oman and talks with the oil-rich Gulf nation's top leadership will impart a "substantial momentum" to all spheres of bilateral ties.

"This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come," he tweeted before concluding his two-day visit to Oman.

"This visit has helped in building upon the centuries-old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations," PM Modi added.

He also expressed gratitude to the Sultan and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection.

Thank you Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos for your exceptional warmth, hospitality and friendship, as also your personal attention to details, that made my visit to Oman one of the most memorable visits I have undertaken anywhere.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 12, 2018

This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come. This visit has helped in building upon the centuries old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 12, 2018

Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos, my deep gratitude to you and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection. We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 12, 2018

Had the opportunity to visit the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat. Here are some glimpses. pic.twitter.com/xabUzjdp93  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 12, 2018

Yet another Indian connection with Oman! PM @narendramodi visited the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, which is the biggest mosque in Oman. The mosque is built from 300,000 tonnes of Indian sandstone sculpted by 200 craftsmen from India! pic.twitter.com/Nu0yzFOTHb  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 12, 2018

Modi, who arrived in Oman from Dubai on the final leg of his three-nation tour, led talks with Sultan Qaboos on Sunday night on a wide range of issues.

Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues. pic.twitter.com/KzQtGaHXF8  Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 11, 2018

He had said that India and Oman have thriving links rooted in centuries-old people-to-people exchanges.

The two sides signed eight agreements, including pacts on cooperation in the field of defence, health and tourism.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman's Diplomatic Institute.

PM Modi, who arrived in Oman from Dubai on the last leg of his three-nation tour.

(With PTI inputs)Congress president Rahul Gandhi has hit out at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat over the latters comment on the Sangh having the capability to form an Army in three days. Terming it as an insult to every Indian, the Gandhi scion said that the comment disrespects our martyrs.

Taking to microblogging site Twitter, the Congress chief said, Shame on you Mr Bhagwat for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army, adding that the statement by the RSS chief insulted every soldier who ever saluted the national flag.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army, tweeted Rahul Gandhi.

This comes a day after Bhagwat said at a public meeting in Muzaffarpur in Bihar that the RSS had the ability to prepare an army to fight for the country within three days while the Army would do that in 6-7 months. He was addressing RSS workers at Zila school ground on the last day of his six-day visit of Muzaffarpur.

"Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsevak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so)," Bhagwat said.

Sangh is neither a military nor a para military organisation, rather it is like a "parivarik sangathan" (family organisation) where discipline is practised like the Army, he said adding that workers are always happily ready to make supreme sacrifice for their country.

Bhagwat exhorted the RSS workers to set an example of good conduct in their personal, family and social life.Hyderabad: In a veiled reference to Maulana Sayyed Salman Husaini Nadvi, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday claimed that few persons are acting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's behest to create a rift within the Muslim law body.

"Some people are dancing at the tune of Modi," said the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) lawmaker without naming Nadvi.

The comment comes days after the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) member claimed that there is a provision in Islam to shift the mosque, in reference to the ongoing Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi dispute in Ayodhya.

There can be no compromise on Babri Masjid, said Owaisi.

He further alleged that Nadvi is trying to create a rift in AIMPLB on PM Modi's request who wants Muslims give up the Babri Masjid issue.

He also called for social boycott of those calling for giving up Babri Masjid.

"He (Nadvi) is saying that his proposal is to ensure peace and unity in the country. Should we also give up Masjid-e-Aqsa (Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem) for unity in Arab?" asked Owaisi.

The Hyderabad MP further added that Nadvi was one of the clerics who signed a `fatwa` in 2001 that a mosque remains a mosque for eternity and hence Muslims can`t give up Babri Masjid.

He also alleged that Nadvi had also given a fatwa in support of terror group IS, which is responsible for the massacre of Muslims in Syria, Iraq and other countries.

"Modi you are giving political patronage to those who had given fatwa in favour of IS," said Owaisi.

Meanwhile, the Muslim board on Sunday expelled Nadvi for his proposal to hand over disputed land in Ayodhya.

"Committee announced AIMPLB Board will continue with its old stand that Mosque cannot be gifted, sold or shifted. Because Salman Nadwi has gone against this unanimous stand, he (Maulana Nadvi) has been expelled," AIMPLB member Qasim Ilyas said.

On Friday, Nadvi met Sri Sri Ravishankar in Bengaluru and mooted the formula that the land on which Babri Masjid stood till December 6, 1992, should be handed to Ram temple in exchange for an alternate land to build a mosque and a university.

With agency inputsISLAMABAD/SRINAGAR: Pakistan, which on Sunday denied its hand in the audacious terror attack on an Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir's Sunjwan area, has now warned India against conducting cross-border strikes.

"It is a well-established pattern that Indian officials begin making irresponsible statements and levelling unfounded allegations, even before a proper investigation in an incident has been initiated," Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

"We hope that the international community would urge India to stop the untold atrocities and gross violations of human rights in Kashmir (and) refrain from any misadventure across the Line of Control..." it said.

The Foreign Office issued a statement on Sunday saying the Indian officials and its media were making "irresponsible" statements even before conducting a proper investigation into the incident (Sunjwan terror attack).

Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson also accused India of running a "smear campaign against Islamabad and the deliberate creation of war hysteria."

The sharp reactions from Pakistan came after the security forces blamed Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) for the Sunjwan attack.

Saturday's attack on the Sunjuwan Army camp in Jammu was the worst in months, with five soldiers and the father of one of the soldiers killed and women and children among the ten wounded.

The authorities said that a group of heavily armed attackers, believed to be linked to the JeM, were behind the attack, drawing criticism from Pakistan about rushing to judgement without a full inquiry.

India, the Foreign Office said, was making these allegations to divert attention from its brutality in trying to control the armed revolt in Kashmir, and warned against any retaliatory measures across the Line of Control (LoC).

The Jammu and Kashmir Police chief, SP Vaid, had told reporters over the weekend that they had communication intercepts pointing to the JeM, which has emerged as a top group fighting hundreds of thousands of Indian forces in Kashmir.

The Army said the attackers wore fatigues and had assault rifles, a UBGL and grenades.

In a related development, J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today urged the Centre to hold talks with Pakistan to end the bloodshed in the state.

In 2016, India carried out surgical strikes after 18 soldiers were killed in an attack on the Uri base in Kashmir.

Pakistan has repeatedly denied giving material aid to the fighters in Kashmir and says it only provides diplomatic and moral support to the Kashmiri people in 'their struggle for self-determination'.

On Monday, Indian soldiers foiled an attack on CRPF camp in Srinagar.

An encounter is currently ongoing between the terrorists and the security forces, and one CRPF jawan has been martyred.The Supreme Court on Monday put a stay on the FIR against Army personnel in Shopian in Jammu and Kashmir. The apex court has sent a notice in this regard to the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government. The FIR was stayed as the top court heard a plea filed by Army Major Aditya Kumar's father Lieutenant Colonel Karamveer Singh.

The plea had sought quashing of FIR against his son, who is among the armymen named in the FIR in connection with firing in Shopian in Jammu and Kashmir. The Supreme Court has asked reply from Centre and state government in two weeks.

Directing that no coercive action should be taken against Major Aditya pursuant to the FIR, the top court ruled that a copy of the petition be served on office of Attorney General and counsel for Jammu and Kashmir.

In his plea in the Supreme Court, Lieutenant Colonel Singh had said that his son, a Major in the 10 Garhwal Rifles, was "wrongly and arbitrarily" named in the FIR. He added that the incident relates to an Army convoy on bonafide military duty in an area under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), which was isolated by an "unruly and deranged" mob which was pelting stones causing damage to military vehicles.

It was also said that the intention of Major Aditya was to save Army personnel and property and the fire was inflicted "only to impair and provide a safe escape from a savage and violent mob engaged in terrorist activity".

The plea also stated that the unruly mob was asked to disperse and not obstruct military but when the situation reached beyond control, they forces issued a warning to the mob to disperse.

Earlier, there were reports that the Army had filed a counter FIR in connection with the incident. However, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti clarified that no counter FIR had been filed by the Army over the death of civilians in a retaliatory firing by an Army patrol party when it was attacked with stones in Shopian on January 27.

"A day after the police filed an FIR into the firing incident, the Army filed a report about the incident in a police station. That report has been kept on record with the already filed FIR into this incident," Mufti had told the state assembly.

Three civilians were killed in firing by Army patrol party in Ganowpora village in Shopian on January 27, when a stone-pelting mob attacked an army convoy in the village.Jewargi: Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday defended his visits to temples and religious places, asserting that he would continue it.

"I like going to temples, wherever I get a religious place I go there. I feel good and feel happy and I will continue (to go)," he told reporters.

On a four-day election campaign in poll-bound Karnataka, Rahul was responding to BJP state president BS Yeddyurappa's "Election Hindu" jibe at him.

Dear #ElectionHindu @OfficeOfRG, you have no moral right to speak about #RafaleDeal. Lest you forget, yourself & Sonia Gandhi are #BailBirds in the #NationalHerald case. From the first Jeep Scam of Independent India to National Herald, nation knows what #Congress stands for.  B.S. Yeddyurappa (@BSYBJP) February 11, 2018

Dear #ElectionHindu @OfficeOfRG, for appeasement, you visit Dargah, but opposed the #TripleTalaq bill that restores the dignity of Muslim women. Why this double standards? Are you against women empowerment!?  B.S. Yeddyurappa (@BSYBJP) February 12, 2018

During his current tour to north Karnataka, Rahul visited Goddess Huligamma temple, a famous shrine in the region, and Gavi Siddheshwara Mutt, a mutt of the majority Lingayat community.

He also visited a Dargah in Raichur on Monday.

Rahul Gandhi visited a Temple and a Dargah in Kalaburagi earlier today #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/4IVHid0qt4  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

Congress President Rahul Gandhi pays his respects at the Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, Kalburgi, Gulbarga #JanaAashirwadaYatre pic.twitter.com/UanwpbgRL6  Congress (@INCIndia) February 12, 2018

Congress President Rahul Gandhi pays a visit to Khwaja Bande Nawaz Dargah, Gulbarga #JanaAashirwadaYatre pic.twitter.com/84mW2LRnOG  Congress (@INCIndia) February 12, 2018

Meanwhile, in his brief interaction with reporters, Rahul asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Yeddyurappa to inform people about the reasons why ministers during BJP rule in the state had to go to jail.

"When Yeddyurappa and Modi ji speak about corruption, they should inform people that during BJP rule four ministers had gone to jail, Yeddyurappa himself had gone to jail and 11 ministers had to resign. Let them explain about it," he said

He again questioned the PM about the Rafale fighter jet deal, reiterating his charge that the contract was taken away from HAL and given to Prime Minister's "friend".

"Why did you take away the contract from HAL? Why did you take away jobs from the youth of Karnataka? Why did you do this to give it to your friend? What was the logic behind it?" Rahul asked, as per PTI.

Questioning whether the requisite permissions were taken from the cabinet committee on security, he also asked what the aircraft's price was.

"Earlier Defence minister said she will share the price details to the country. After three to four months she is saying the matter is a state secret. Was it not state secret earlier?" Rahul asked.

Attacking the Modi government for demonetisation and GST, terming it as 'Gabbar Singh Tax", the Congress chief said the measures have "shut" all businesses in the country.

Congress now 'pseudo-Hinduism', says Javadekar

Meanwhile, questioning Rahul's temple visits ahead of the coming Karnataka Assembly polls, Union Minister and Karnataka election in charge Prakash Javadekar said Congress was earlier "pseudo-secular" but are now "pseudo-Hinduism."

"They are changing brands. They were earlier pseudo-secularists, now they are pseudo-Hinduism. People understand which is an election gimmick and which is true devotion," he said.

Javadekar claimed that Rahul did not go to temples in Delhi when he was elected Congress president, which was the biggest day in his life.

"He goes to temples in Gujarat and Karnataka because there is an election. So it is a vote gimmick. But people are not fools. In our country, illiterate intelligence is very powerful. Robust common sense works and people understand who is a real devotee and who is an election devotee," he said.

Javadekar took a dig at the ruling Congress in Karnataka, saying that on the one hand its leaders are visiting temples and on the other, brought out a circular from taking and appropriating all temples, mutts, under endowment department.

The circular was later withdrawn hurriedly under public pressure, Javadekar pointed out.

(With PTI inputs)SRINAGAR: Two heavily-armed terrorists were seen approaching towards a CRPF camp on Monday in Jammu and Kashmir's Srinagar. The soldiers stationed at the post opened fire following which the terrorists fled from the spot.

The terrorists were carrying bags and AK 47 guns. A search operation around the camp has been initiated.

It is believed that the terrorists were planning to attack the CRPF camp.

Meanwhile, combing operations have been launched at terror-hit Sunjwan ArmyCamp in Jammu.

At least five soldiers and one civilian got killed while several others got injured in a gunbattle that went on for over 30 hours in Sunjwan Army camp. The forces also gunned down four terrorists after an intense encounter that went on for more than a day.

Authorities said that the gunbattle went on for so long as the Army wanted to avoid any collateral damage.

On Saturday, two JCOs got killed as the terrorists carried out an early morning attack at the Army camp. In retaliation, the forces killed three terrorists on Saturday while another was killed on Sunday.

The terrorists carried out the attack by opening indiscriminate fire and lobbed grenades inside the Army camp. Later, they entered the JCO family quarters where they opened indiscriminate fire.

After killing three terrorists on Saturday, the forces recovered AK-47 rifles and other weapons from the terrorists.

Reports quoting intelligence sources said that Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin and JeM chief Masood Azhar are the masterminds of the attack on the Army camp.

Reports cited intercepts from Pakistan and said that a meeting between the chiefs of the terror groups was held recently in Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. The two groups also reportedly organised a terrorist camp in Muzaffarabad.

The terrorists who attacked the Army camp were reportedly trained at this training camp and then sent to the Indian side of the border.Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday called for holding talks with Pakistan to end the bloodshed in the militancy-hit state.

"Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed (in the state)," Mehbooba Mufti said in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.

We fought and won all wars against Pakistan but even now today there is no solution other than dialogue, till when will our jawans and civilians keep dying. Wonder what some media houses would have called Atalji if he took bus to Lahore in today's time&talked of dialogue: J&K CM pic.twitter.com/gUjWhKvEXH  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

However, the PDP leader was quick to add that she will be dubbed "anti-national" by TV channels for making such an appeal.

"I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesn`t matter. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option," the J&K CM said.

Unfortunately, some media houses have created an atmosphere that if we talk of dialogue (with Pakistan) then we are labelled anti-national: J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti in state assembly pic.twitter.com/i9paKyzeXF  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

The appeal from the J&K CM comes amid a spurt in terror attacks across the state as well as unending border clashes between Indian and Pakistani militaries.

Meanwhile, in a related development, the Supreme Court today said that no coercive action will be taken against Major Aditya Kumar, accused of allegedly killing three civilians in firing to disperse a stone-pelting mob in Shopian district of Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir Police had earlier registered an FIR against Major Aditya Kumar.

The apex court ruling is a setback to J&K CM since the FIR against Army officer was registered at her orders.

Directing that no coercive action would be taken against the Army Major in pursuance to the FIR, a bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice AM Khanwilkar and Justice DY Chandrachud sought the response from the Centre and the Mehbooba Mufti government in the state.

The father of the accused Major, Lt. Col. Karamveer Singh, had filed a petition in the apex court seeking quashing of the FIR.

The father contended that registration of FIR and the consequent proceedings would adversely impact the morale of the armed forces fighting militancy in the trouble-torn state.

The court asked for a copy of the petition to be served on the office of the Attorney General KK Venugopal.

Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, who appeared for the petitioner, urged the court to stay the FIR.

Major Aditya Kumar and other soldiers of the 10 Garhwal Rifles were accused of opening fire on a stone-pelting mob which had attacked an administrative army convoy near Ganowpora village in Shopian district on January 27.

The firing resulted in the death of three persons.

"The manner in which the lodging of the FIR has been portrayed and projected by the political leadership and administrative higher-ups of the state reflects the extremely hostile atmosphere in the state," the petition said.

"In these circumstances, the petitioner is left with no other viable option but to approach this Court under Article 32 of the Constitution of India for protection of valuable Fundamental Rights of his son and himself, enshrined under Article 14 and 21 of the Constitution of India," the plea said.

It said that Major Aditya Kumar was wrongly and arbitrarily named as the incident relates to an Army convoy on bonafide military duty in an area under AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act), which was isolated by an "unruly and deranged" stone-pelting mob.

The intention of the Major was to save Army personnel and property, and the fire was inflicted only to impair and provide a safe escape.

"The unruly mob was requested to disperse and not to obstruct military persons in the performance of their duties and not to damage government property..."

The unruly behaviour of the unlawful assembly reached its peak when they got hold of a Junior Commissioned Officer and was in the process of lynching him.

"It was at this moment that warning shots were fired... which as per the said terms of engagement is the last resort to be taken...," the plea said.

It also sought directions to issue guidelines to protect the rights of soldiers and adequate compensation.

(With Agency inputs)Srinagar: Lashkar-e-Taiba on Monday claimed responsibility for Karan Nagar terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, ANI reported.

A paramilitary trooper was killed after a failed terror bid on a CRPF camp in Srinagar. The trooper was wounded in the shootout as the security forces prepared for a final assault against the holed-up terrorists, a police officer said, as per IANS.

He was shifted to the nearby SMHS hospital, barely 300 metres away from the site of the gunfight, and died later.

Kashmir police chief SP Vaid in a tweet said, "I congratulate alert CRPF sentry for averting suicidal attack in Karan Nagar."

I congratulate alert CRPF sentry for averting Suicidal attack in Karan nagar Srinagar. Fortunately 2 terrorists are in cordon & exchange of fire going on.  Shesh Paul Vaid (@spvaid) February 12, 2018

Earlier around 4.30 am on Monday, two terrorists were spotted by an alert sentry at the observation post of 23rd battalion of the CRPF in Karan Nagar area.

The two were forced to flee as the alert sentry fired at them.

Searches in the area revealed that terrorists carrying backpacks and AK-47 rifles had taken shelter in a building near the CRPF camp, which was then surrounded.

After the hiding militants were challenged, they fired at the security forces triggering a gunfight. The latest attack on the Army camp took place nearly 15 months after the Jammu region was hit by a similar attack.

Meanwhile, three terrorists involved in the Sunjwan camp attack were killed in the retaliatory action by the Army inside the camp and a large quantity of arms and ammunition was seized from them.

A group of heavily armed men struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry before dawn on February 10, 2018. Five Army men, including two Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), were martyred in the attack.

The last terror attack in the Jammu region had taken place on November 29, 2016, when terrorists had stormed the Army's Nagrota camp on the outskirts of Jammu city, killing seven Army personnel including two officers.

(With PTI inputs)JAMMU: In wake of the continuous terror attacks on the Army and CRPF camp in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Defence Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday left for Jammu to assess the security situation in the state.

Meanwhile, a CRPF personnel has lost his life in the ongoing encounter at the 23 Bn CRPF camp in Srinagar`s Karan Nagar, where two armed-terrorists were spotted in the wee hours of Monday morning.Earlier on Saturday, terrorists barged into the Sunjwan army camp in Jammu, killing five security personnel and one civilian.

Six army personnel and six civilians are injured.Four terrorists belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) have been gunned down.Combing operations are underway at the Sunjwan Army Camp.It was a close shave for 180 passengers of an IndiGo flight at the Birsa Munda airport in Ranchi. During the take-off of the Ranchi-Delhi fight, the pilot found that the aircraft had some technical fault and abandoned the take-off of flight 6E 398.

Prabhat Khabar reported that the pilot spotted the fault during the ground run of the flight itself, and hence stopped it to get it checked.

The engineers at the airport took more than two-and-a-half hours to fix the fault. The aircraft, which was scheduled to take-off at 9.35 am, but could fly only after noon.

Meanwhile, the no-frill airline has declared that it has grounded three A320 neo aircraft due to engine problems. According to a statement released by the airline, IndiGo has withdrawn three A320 neo aircraft from service, effectively from February 9, 2018, due to the engine problems. The grounded aircraft are powered by Pratt & Whitney engines.

"We confirm receiving the recommendations by Pratt & Whitney as well as EASA (European Aviation Safety Regulator) with respect to the A320 neo aircraft powered by PW1100G - JM engines. We have three aircraft with the particular engine configuration, which have been flagged by EASA", IndiGo said in a release.

Media reports also quoted a senior Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) official saying the grounding of aircraft powered by Pratt and Whitney engines follows a directive from European aviation safety regulator EASA.

The EASA had on Friday issued an emergency airworthiness directive for A320 neo planes fitted with PW1100 engines having a particular serial number.

The directive came in the wake of instances of the engines in-flight shut-downs and rejected take-offs involving A320 neo family planes, the DGCA official was quoted as saying.The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party have been indulged in pakoda politics since Prime Minister Narendra Modis statement on a pakoda shop owner being employed. Taking it to the next level, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday took a pakoda break during his visit to poll-bound Karnataka.

The Congress chief took the pakoda break in Kalmala village of Raichur district in Karnataka. He was accompanied by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and senior Congress leaders M Veerappa Moily and Mallikarjun Kharge.

Pictures of the same have also surfaced:

It all started when, in an interview with Zee News, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, If someone opens a 'pakoda' shop in front of your office, does that not count at employment? The person's daily earning of Rs 200 will never come into any books or accounts. The truth is many people are being employed.

Senior Congress leader and former Union minister P Chidambaram was quick to hit back at the Prime Minister saying that if selling pakoda is a job, so is begging. In a series of posts on micro-blogging site Twitter, Chidambaram had said that the NDA government was clueless about creating jobs.

Taking a dig at PM Modi, Chidambaram said that he should understand that there is a marked difference between job and self-employment as the former is "regular and reasonably secure".

In a firm rebuttal to the PM's contention, Chidambaram tweeted, ''Even selling pakodas is a 'job' said PM. By that logic, even begging is a job. Let's count poor or disabled persons who are forced to beg for a living as 'employed' people."

Later, BJP president Amit Shah hit back at the Congress during his maiden speech in Rajya Sabha. He said that selling pakoda was not shameful, and in fact better than unemployment. Hitting out at Chidambaram, Shah had said, "Some people are saying things about selling pakodas. I also read P Chidambarams tweet. Yes, I agree that selling pakodas is better than being unemployed.

"Making and selling pakodas is not shameful, but equating it with begging is certainly shameful," Shah said.

"Today if a person is earning livelihood by selling pakodas, tomorrow his son would become a big industrialist. A tea vendor's son can become the Prime Minister of this country," he added.RAJGARH: A minor girl in Madhya Pradesh was burnt alive because she tried to resist rape. The incident took place in MP's Sustani village on Friday.

The 13-year-old girl is reportedly a Dalit. "He threw kerosene on me and then lit a fire," the victim said.

Rajgarh (Madhya Pradesh): Minor Dalit girl torched, allegedly after she resisted rape, victim says, 'he threw kerosene on me & then lit fire.' Police say, 'case has been registered and teams are looking for the accused.' (11.02.2018) pic.twitter.com/rXITl1Zg3L  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

According to police, a case has been registered and teams are looking for the accused.

The accused tried to rape the minor on finding her alone at home. It was when the 13-year-old victim cried to protest, he attempted to kill her.

He tried to silence her by pouring her kerosene and setting her on fire. Thereafter, the culprit fled from the spot.

The victim was admitted in the district hospital on Saturday night, where the doctors said that 50 percent of her body sustained burn injuries. After a primary treatment, she was referred to Bhopal.

A complaint has been registered with Rajgarh Police, and a three-member team has been formed to nab the culprit, SDOP Shambhu Singh Ahirwal informed.

(With ANI inputs)Bhopal: BJP leader and former MLA Ramesh Saxena has a piece of advice to farmers in Madhya Pradesh in their fight against natural disasters - chanting Hanuman Chalisa.

Speaking to farmers, Ramesh Saxena, a former MLA from Sehore in Madhya Pradesh, urged the farmers to chant Hanuman Chalisa every day for an hour for the next five days to save crops from natural calamities.

The BJP leader said that if the farmers do this they will never face a calamity.

Saxena also stated that reciting the Hanuman Chalisa for five consecutive days is a sure remedy against crop loss caused by rains and hailstorm.

"Lord Hanuman is the only force which can shield against winds, rains and hails. By reciting Hanuman Chalisa for an hour daily for five days, farmers will be able to guard against natural calamities," the BJP leader said.

Ramesh Saxena asking farmers to recite Hanuman Chalisa was recorded on camera and the video was widely shared on the social media.

Several users on Twitter even ridiculed Saxena for giving such an advice to farmers.

It is to be noted that several parts of Madhya Pradesh were hit by storm, hails and rain on Sunday following which many crops were damaged.

Even Sehore, from where the ex-MLA hails, has faced untimely rain and hail in the recent past.

Farmers across the state have suffered huge losses due to natural calamities and urged the government to waive off their loans.

There have been several incidents of farmers committing suicide over their inability to repay the bank loans.

Just recently, a BJP Member of Parliament from Satna, Ganesh Singh, had sparked a row with an insensitive statement on farmers.

He had said that government cannot be blamed if the farmers do not get minimum support price for their produce.

He further suggested the farmers to employ shepherds for Rs 10,000 if animals were eating up their crops.

The statement was made by the MP at an event of Kaushal Vikas Kendra (Skill development centre), which was attended by states agriculture minister, MLAs, and other district administration officials, including collector.NEW DELHI: BJP`s Nagaland unit on Sunday denounced a "fictitious" news report about the party`s North East in-charge Ram Madhav being circulated in the social media, which, it said, could "spark communal tension".

The report by media portal "Newsjoint "sought to tarnish Madhav`s "good image and integrity", it said, that the portal seemed to be a fake news agency or channel "devoid of any truth and written with malicious intent".

"Such spreading of false news is tantamount to not only character assassination but also poses grave risk of sparking off communal tension," it said.

It said the fake news issue was taken by the party with all seriousness, and prompt and fitting action would be initiated "against those behind spreading the fabricated news" to "penalise and punish those responsible for the mischief".

KOHIMA: A total of 3,400 Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines and 77 companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have arrived in poll-bound Nagaland, an election official said on Sunday.

Elections to the 60-member Nagaland Assembly are slated to be held on February 27, and counting of votes will be done on March 3.

Chief Electoral Officer Abhijit Sinha said the VVPAT machines will be deployed in all 2,196 polling booths across the state. It will be the first time these printer-attached voting machines will be used in Nagaland, he said.

Of the 281 companies of CAPF to ensure the smooth conduct of the upcoming assembly elections, the top poll official said 77 companies have already arrived in the state and have been sent to all districts.

Sinha said the companies which have arrived are being utilised for area domination, Mobile Vehicle Check Post, and for providing environmental security.

He said the remaining 204 companies will be arriving in Nagaland after completion of the Tripura assembly elections slated for February 18, adding that the companies which have arrived are from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and Railway Protection Force (RPF).

Sinha said that a section of the CAPF are also being utilised at static police check posts for checking for cash, arms, liquor and other illegal items.AGARTALA: Hitting out at the ruling Communist Party government in poll-bound Tripura, the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) president Amit Shah on Monday said that BJP will win Tripura polls.

"Next government in Tripura will be of the BJP. There is anger against the CPIM govt throughout the state, because of their misrule Tripura stands last, when it comes to development," Shah said.

Ahead of the state Assembly elections to be held next Sunday, the ruling party chief is on a two-day visit to the northeast state of Tripura.

While addressing a public rally on Sunday, he asked the people to oust Tripura's 'Lal bhai' government, as he accused the Left cadres of pocketing public funds meant for development. He promised to make the state a model one if his party is voted to power.

With the BJP being seen as putting up a strong challenge to the 25-year-old uninterrupted Left reign in the state, Shah led an eight-kilometre road show and addressed rallies in which he sought votes for the state's "transformation".

Shah made a host of promises to the people of the state, including smartphones for youths, implementation of the seventh pay commission for government employees from the next day of his party being voted to power and action against chit fund scam accused.

The Left government, he said, was made in the name of the poor but poverty increased in its 25 years of rule and the number of unemployed youths rose to 7.33 lakh from 25,000 during the period.

Taking a dig on Sarkar for his charge that the Centre had not done much for the state's development, the BJP chief reeled out the names of a number of central schemes and noted that it had released Rs 25,396 crore to Tripura under the 14th finance commission against Rs 7,283 crore it had got under the 13th finance commission.

Raising the party's slogan, 'Chalo Paltai' (Let's change the government), Shah sought the Left's ouster from the state.

The BJP is contesting 51 out of the 60 Assembly seats, while its ally Indigenous Peoples Front of Tripura (IPFT) is fighting on nine seats.

The northeastern state of Tripura is going to polls on February 18 while the counting of votes will be done on March 3.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) has a strong foothold in Tripura and is in power for the past 25 years.

The incumbent Chief Minister Manik Sarkar is at the helm for the past 19 years. He held the term for the fourth time after the party swept away the 2013 assembly elections.

In the last polls in 2013, the CPI (M) managed to bag an overwhelming majority with 51 seats, while the rest was shared by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Congress party.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which did not win even a single seat in the last polls, has been working hard to overthrow the CPI (M) rule this time. Six Congress MLAs, who first joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC), switched over to the BJP in August last year.

Apart from this, there are three major tribal parties in Tripura- the Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT), Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura (INPT) and National Conference of Tripura (NCT).

(With PTI inputs)AGARTALA: A BJP youth leader along with 9 party workers were attacked by CPI(M) supporters with sticks and bombs at Ranirbazar, about 12 km from here, the saffron party alleged today.

Ten persons including Sushanta Chowdhury, BJP candidate of Majlishpur Assembly constituency, were injured in the attack, BJP state president Biplab Kumar Deb said.

The CPI(M), however, denied the allegation and said that the BJP had carried out the attack instead and one CPI(M) worker was undergoing treatment at a hospital.

Chowdhury said a group of CPI(M) activists attacked him with sticks and hurled a bomb when he was meeting party workers.?

Was the attack aimed at killing me and taking benefit of my absence ahead of the polls,? Chowdhury told reporters.

Election to the 60-member Tripura Assembly would be held on February 18.

Chowdhury said he was injured but would continue with the election campaign.

Chowdhury is contesting against five-term CPI(M) MLA and state transport minister Manik Dey from the constituency.

Superintendent of Police (Control) Pradip De said a complaint was filed about an attack with Ranirbazaar police station and investigation has begun on the incident.

However, no one has been arrested in this connection so far, De said.

He denied knowledge of any bombs being hurled in the clash but said the police fired three tear gas shells and resorted to mild lathi-charge to disperse the crowd.

CPI(M) state secretary Bijan Dhar said allegations of BJP were completely baseless.

Dhar claimed his party workers were attacked by the BJP workers and one CPI(M) supporter was injured and is now admitted to Gobind Ballabh Pant Hospital.AGARTALA: With all eyes set on the fight between the CPI(M)-led Left Front and the BJP in Tripura, the Trinamool Congress, once an emerging force to reckon with in the north eastern state, is now struggling to make its presence felt in the upcoming Assembly election.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has formed an alliance with the Indigenous Nationalist Party of Twipra (INPT) and National Conference of Tripura for the February 18 poll.

The party has fielded candidates in 24 seats of the total 60 constituencies in the state.

TMC's in-charge of Tripura, Sabyasachi Dutta, who is an MLA in West Bengal Assembly, told PTI that he is positive that the TMC will be a force to reckon with in the state.

On whether he is confident that this alliance will come to power, he said, "Let us see what happens. We do not have money power like the BJP. But we are trying to give a tough fight."

A Tripura TMC leader, who did not wish to be named, said, "The party is fighting to make its presence felt in the state.

We were once emerging as the main opposition, but now we have again started from scratch. Neither do we have funds nor the people to contest."

TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had a few days ago stated that her party, which had built an organisation in Tripura, had to start afresh.

In an obvious reference to Mukul Roy, former TMC general secretary who joined the BJP last year, she blamed a "traitor within the party" for the present condition.

"The reason why we are unable to contest Tripura polls properly is due to a lack of funds.

We were able to establish our organisational network in Tripura earlier. But because of a traitor who joined the BJP, we suffered a setback," Banerjee had said.

After defeating the 34-year-old Left regime in West Bengal in 2011, Banerjee had set her sight on Tripura that has a huge Bengali-speaking population. She had entrusted Roy with the job of expanding the party's base in the border state.

In 2016, the TMC had inducted six Congress MLAs into the party and became the main opposition in Tripura Assembly.

The TMC began expanding its base in the state but things started changing when the BJP came into the picture.

The six MLAs who had switched over to the TMC crossed over to the BJP just ahead of the presidential elections citing their displeasure over the TMC's support to Congress presidential candidate Meira Kumar. The TMC leadership believes it was Roy who had engineered the defection to the BJP.

"We joined the BJP as the TMC had joined hands with both the CPI(M) and the Congress.

When we had joined the TMC, we had thought that the party was serious in fighting the CPI(M). But the TMC's decision to help the Congress and the CPI(M) disappointed us," BJP MLA Sudip Roy Burman said.

The TMC, just ahead of the Assembly polls, had tried hard to stitch an alliance with the Congress in the state but it did not work out, with the TMC demanding 30 seats.

"The TMC does not have a base in the state and they are asking for 30 seats. Is it a logical demand? We don't need TMC," Tripura Congress president Birajit Sinha told PTI.

Sinha blamed the TMC for weakening the Congress in the state by poaching the six party MLAs in 2016 who had later crossed over to the BJP.

Sabyasachi Dutta, however, said the Congress was not at all interested in an alliance with the TMC as it had offered only five seats to the party.

TMC's alliance partner NCT's state president Animesh Debbarma said they are hopeful that the alliance will have an impact in the polls and play a crucial role post elections.

Describing the TMC as an "insignificant political force" in Tripura, Mukul Roy said the people of the state want the BJP to end the Left misrule in the north eastern state.

"The people of Tripura want to be part of the developmental process that the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have initiated," he said.KOHIMA: The office of Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has launched a poster campaign in poll-bound Nagaland, encouraging electorates to grab the opportunity to wisely choose their representatives for the 13th Legislative Assembly.

The posters, designed by the IT Cell of CEO Nagaland, have been dispatched to all districts, Awa Lorin, Assistant CEO, told reporters today.

"Don't slumber. Participate! Your vote is valuable/precious," read one of the posters at TCP junction in Kohima.

Asking people to make the right choice, another poster said, "Today's right action will decide our bright future".

"The posters will be put up at important junctions to create awareness on the importance of participating in the democratic process," Lorin said.

Nagaland will go to polls on February 27 and the results will be announced on March 3.Agartala: Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Brinda Karat joined the party's campaign in poll-bound Tripura on Monday.

Forty thieves of Alibaba can be bought by the money, but you can not buy the people of Tripura, said Karat while addressing a public rally in Jirania.

Brinda Karat from a Election rally in Jirania, Tripura: Forty thieves of Alibaba can be bought by the money, but you can not buy the people of Tripura.#Left4Tripura#Vote4LeftFront pic.twitter.com/UYMGLQGAka  CPI (M) (@cpimspeak) February 12, 2018

On Sunday, Karat addressed campaign rallies in Tripura's Simna and Mohanpur Constituencies. She pointed out how BJP-IPFT's only motive is to divide the people and create unrest.

But this agenda will not succeed in Tripura and people will give them a fitting reply, said Karat.

Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Monday said the Congress is helping the ruling CPI-M in Tripura by splitting the non-Left vote share in the upcoming polls.

"Congress is practically helping the CPI-M (Communist Party of India-Marxist) by splitting the non-Left vote share in Tripura. However, it would not be an obstacle for Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to come to power in the state after the next week`s assembly elections," Shah told the media here.

"BJP had little base in Manipur and Assam, but we came to power there. Similarly, our party did not have an adequate base in Tripura earlier and the BJP got a very small percentage of votes previously (BJP secured 1.54 per cent votes in 2013 polls) in Tripura. This time BJP is a big political force... continuously expanding its base," Shah said.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s popularity and BJP`s performance helped the party to expand its base in newer areas and all the regions of the country."

Tripura Assembly elections will be on February 18, counting of votes on March 3. The CPI (M) has been in power for the past 25 years, with incumbent Chief Minister Manik Sarkar at the helm for the past 19 years. He held the term for the fourth time after the party swept away the 2013 Assembly elections.TRIPURA: Union minister Nitin Gadkari today said the people of Tripura were to be blamed for the state's "backwardness" as they did not vote for a change in the last 25 years.

Gadkari addressed three public rallies in Gomati and West Tripura districts of the state today.

"I will not hold Chief Minister Manik Sarkar or his cabinet colleagues responsible for your backwardness. Rather, I will hold you responsible, because you did not change the government in 25 years," he said at one of those rallies in Gomati district.

Tripura is set to go to the polls on February 18 and the results will be declared on March 3.

The poor condition of roads, education and the healthcare system across the state were a proof that the Left Front government had not done anything for the welfare of the state, the Union minister for road transport, highways and shipping said.

"There are hospitals here, but no doctors.

You will find schools, but no teachers. There is not a single good industry in the state and the issue of employment generation remains neglected," he added.

The natural resources available in the north-eastern state, such as bamboo and rubber, were not used for its development and the "Left hooliganism" had destroyed industrial prospects, Gadkari alleged.

"If voted to power, the BJP will take initiatives to bring investments to the state and generate jobs for the youth," he added.AGARTALA: With a week to go for Tripura Assembly elections 2018, CPI(M) candidate Ramendra Narayan Debbarma died of a cerebral stroke on February 11, 2018.

The 68-year-old candidate, a sitting MLA, was contesting from Charilam Assembly constituency.

"The sitting MLA and Communist Party of India-Marxist candidate for Charilam (Scheduled Tribe) seat, Ramendra Narayan Debbarma, died at the Gobinda Ballav Panth Medical College and Hospital, where he was admitted in the afternoon with chest pain," an Election Department official said.

Addressing media persons, party state secretary Bijan Dhar said that the candidate was fit to contest elections. He further expressed grief and shock over Dhar's untimely death.

According to Santosh Biswas, a CPI(M) member of the Sipahijala district committee, Debbarma was campaigning in his constituency on Sunday morning when he felt pain and was rushed to Bishalgarh hospital near his constituency.

The doctors referred him to Gobinda Ballav Panth hospital where he died during the check-up.

According to the election commission, the official said the election in Charilam would be countermanded as per electoral laws. There are five candidates, including Debbarma, in the fray.

The polls for the 60-seat Tripura Assembly will be held on February 18, while counting of votes will be on March 3.

Debbarma, 68, after his retirement from government service in 2012, had contested the 2013 assembly polls from Charilam in western Tripura and won. The CPI-M offered him a ticket for 2018 polls.

Debbarma is survived by wife and son.

With agency inputsLondon: Gigi Hadid has slammed body shamers in a recent series of tweets.

The 22-year-old model took to the micro-blogging site on Sunday and hit back at those who commented on her fluctuating weight over the years.

The supermodel was diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease, which is also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. The condition is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies directed against the thyroid gland leading to chronic inflammation.

She opened her series with, "For those of you so determined to come up w why my body has changed over the years, you may not know that when I started @ 17 I was not yet diagnosed w/Hashimoto's disease; those of u who called me "too big for the industry" were seeing inflammation & water retention due to that".

For those of you so determined to come up w why my body has changed over the years, you may not know that when I started @ 17 I was not yet diagnosed w/Hashimotos disease; those of u who called me too big for the industry were seeing inflammation & water retention due to that.  Gigi Hadid (@GiGiHadid) February 11, 2018

She continued, "Over the last few years I've been properly medicated to help symptoms including those, as well as extreme fatigue, metabolism issues, body's ability to retain heat, etc ... I was also part of a holistic medical trial that helped my thyroid levels balance out".

Over the last few years Ive been properly medicated to help symptoms including those, as well as extreme fatigue, metabolism issues, bodys ability to retain heat, etc ... I was also part of a holistic medical trial that helped my thyroid levels balance out.  Gigi Hadid (@GiGiHadid) February 11, 2018

Hadid added, "Although stress & excessive travel can also affect the body, I have always eaten the same, my body just handles it differently now that my health is better. I may be "too skinny" for u, honestly this skinny isn't what I want to be, but I feel healthier internally and (cont)".

Although stress & excessive travel can also affect the body, I have always eaten the same, my body just handles it differently now that my health is better. I may be too skinny for u, honestly this skinny isnt what I want to be, but I feel healthier internally and (cont)  Gigi Hadid (@GiGiHadid) February 11, 2018

She continued, "cont) am still learning and growing with my body every day, as everyone is."

(cont) am still learning and growing with my body everyday, as everyone is.  Gigi Hadid (@GiGiHadid) February 11, 2018

She further noted, "I will not further explain the way my body looks, just as anyone, with a body type that doesn't suit ur "beauty" expectation, shouldn't have to. Not to judge others, but drugs are not my thing, stop putting me in that box just because u don't understand the way my body has matured".

I will not further explain the way my body looks, just as anyone, with a body type that doesnt suit ur beauty expectation, shouldnt have to. Not to judge others, but drugs are not my thing, stop putting me in that box just because u dont understand the way my body has matured.  Gigi Hadid (@GiGiHadid) February 11, 2018

The model concluded her statement with, "Please, as social media users & human beings in general, learn to have more empathy for others and know that you never really know the whole story. Use your energy to lift those that you admire rather than be cruel to those u don't".

Please, as social media users & human beings in general, learn to have more empathy for others and know that you never really know the whole story. Use your energy to lift those that you admire rather than be cruel to those u dont.  Gigi Hadid (@GiGiHadid) February 11, 2018

The model's - who's dating former 'One Direction' star Zayn Malik - followers flocked to Twitter to lend their support to her. Many celebrities took to their handles and showed their support to Hadid.

Lily Aldridge: I love you!!! Love your body!!! Love your beautiful soul!! And just FYI for everyone the last meal I had with G was a FULLLLY LOADED @kfc FEAST

I love you!!! Love your body!!! Love your beautiful soul!! And just FYI for everyone the last meal I had with G was a FULLLLY LOADED @kfc FEAST  Lily Aldridge (@LilyAldridge) February 12, 2018

Hailey Baldwin: @GiGiHadid annoying and unfortunate that you have to explain your personal matters to the world. You slay, love you Gi.

@GiGiHadid annoying and unfortunate that you have to explain your personal matters to the world. You slay, love you Gi.  Hailey Baldwin (@haileybaldwin) February 12, 2018

Ruby Rose: Cant wait to see you in Milan. Sorry you too have to explain something so ridiculous to people. Love to you. Love to the people who try to tear down others also because they are just people who havent had the spiritual growth that needs to occur to love and accept one another.

Cant wait to see you in Milan. Sorry you too have to explain something so ridiculous to people. Love to you. Love to the people who try to tear down others also because they are just people who havent had the spiritual growth that needs to occur to love and accept one another.  Ruby Rose (@RubyRose) February 12, 2018

Kendal Jenner: Preach

I stand with @GiGiHadid - The body shaming has to stop! The truth is no matter who you are, we all struggle with being criticized about our bodies. Healthy looks different on everyone!  Martha Hunt (@MarthaHunt) February 12, 2018

Martha Hunt: I stand with @GiGiHadid - The body shaming has to stop! The truth is no matter who you are, we all struggle with being criticized about our bodies. Healthy looks different on everyone!New Delhi: The White House wishes to make the International Space Station (ISS) a commercial venture run by a private industry, with funding for the costly program within a few years.

According to the Washington Post, the US plan involves privatizing the ISS, a low-orbit space laboratory piloted by the American space agency NASA and developed jointly with its Russian counterpart, Roscosmos.

The station has allowed international crews  notably in collaboration with the Canadian, European and Japanese space agencies  to pursue scientific research in the environment of a low Earth orbit.

"The decision to end direct federal support for the ISS in 2025 does not imply that the platform itself will be deorbited at that time," says an internal NASA document obtained by the Post. "It is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform."

"NASA will expand international and commercial partnerships over the next seven years in order to ensure continued human access to and presence in low Earth orbit," the document says. A budget request to be issued today by the Trump administration will call for YSD 150 million to be spent on the ISS in the 2019 fiscal year, and more in succeeding years, "to enable the development and maturation of commercial entities and capabilities which will ensure that commercial successors to the ISS are operational when they are needed."

As per the Post, the White House would request the private sector to provide market analyses and development plans.

The plan is expected to face stiff opposition as the US has already spent some USD 100 billion to launch, operate and support the orbital station.

Beginning during the presidency of George W Bush (2001- 2009), NASA has subcontracted certain ISS support operations, starting with the supply flights now carried out by the SpaceX and Orbital ATK companies  a trend that gained speed during the Obama presidency.

It was not clear, however, how private companies might profit from taking over the aging station  its first section was launched in 1998. NASA did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

(With AFP inputs)San Francisco: Two owners of Google Pixel smartphones who found microphones on their devices to be defective have filed a proposed class action suit in federal court in San Jose, California, the media reported.

The suit requests a jury trial and accuses Google of shipping the phones with defective parts, Fortune.com reported on Friday.

The two Pixel owners, Patricia Weeks and Waleed Anba, were also not happy about how Google handled customer complaints about the defects.

The original Google Pixel phones were launched in 2016.

According to a report at the tech news site Ars Technica, Weeks informed Google of her problem in March 2017, three months after her December 2016 purchase and therefore she was within her one year warranty.

Weeks claimed that Google refused to refund her money or replace it even after acknowledging the defect.

"Dr. Weeks did not know that the Pixel phones have defective microphones when she bought her phone. Had Google disclosed the defect to her, she would not have bought a Pixel or would have paid substantially less for it," the complaint states.

Anbar, on the other hand, was not within his one year warranty as he bought his phone in December 2016 and reported the issue in January 2018.

"We don't comment on ongoing litigation but it might be worth including a link to our help centre page in your story which explains the solutions we have for out-of-warranty customers," Emily Clarke, a Google spokeswoman, told Ars.Maha Shivaratri is just around the corner and if you are wondering where to experience the divinity of Lord Shiva this year, we have compiled a list of places where the festival is celebrated with much grandeur and pomp.

The festival is celebrated on the new moon day in the month of Maagha. There are various legends associated with the Shivaratri celebrations. One of the belief has it that after the Earth was devastation, Goddess Parvati pleaded to Lord Shiva to save the planet from all evils. Delighted with her prayers, Lord Shiva decided to save the world on a condition that the people of the Earth would have to remember and serve him with commitment and passion. This is why it is known as Maha Shivaratri.

According to another popular belief, it is the night when Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati got married. Many young girls pray to the god for seeking a husband like Bholenath.

This year the festival is on February 13, 2018.

So here's our list of the cities where you can experience Shivaratri at its best:-

1) Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Haridwar is apparently one of the holy cities in India. It has many ghats where most religious activities are carried out. Other than the ghats, the city also has a Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, which is quite popular among pilgrims. It is one of the finest places to feel the Shivaratri vibe.

2) Guwahati, Assam

One of the leading Maha Shivaratri celebrations takes place in Assam's Umananda Temple. The temple is situated on the peacock island in the Brahmaputra River. Many devotees across the nation throng to Guwahati to celebrate the festival in the lap of mountains.

3) Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

It is hugely celebrated in Ujjain's Mahakaleshwar Temple. The temple also houses one out of the twelve jyotirlingas in the world.

4) Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Although Himachal Pradesh has a lot of Lord Shiva temples, the place where it is best celebrated happens to be at Bhootnath temple, Mandi. The royal family of Mandi started the tradition of celebrating Shivaratri at Bhootnath temple many years ago.

5) Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Another holy Indian city, Varanasi, is one of the cities where Lord Shiva is considered the supreme god. The festival is celebrated in Tilbhandeshwar Temple situated in south Varanasi. This is among the few places in India where dancing in processions after consuming bhaang is a part of a ritual.

6) Jammu and Kashmir

The festival of Maha Shivaratri holds great significance and reverence among the Kashmiri Pandits in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Celebrated as one of their main festivals, Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati mantras can be heard chanting in almost every temple in the city. In Kashmir, Shankaracharya Temple is a must visit, and if in Jammu, you can experience a blissful Shivaratri at Raghunath Mandir, Shivkhori or Aap Shambu Mandir.

Also, every Kashmiri Pandit family performs a yagna at their homes on Maha Shivaratri and it's a two day ritual for them.Allahabad: A Dalit student was beaten to death by a group of men outside a restaurant in Allahabad. The entire incident was caught on CCTV.

Twenty-six-year-old Dileep, a second-year LLB student, had reportedly gone to a restaurant for a meal in Karnalganj along with two friends on Friday. An altercation broke out between Dileep and few persons, outside the eatery.

The men soon started assaulting Dileep with bricks and sticks, leaving him seriously injured.

Two days later, he succumbed to his injuries.

The entire CCTV footage of the incident has now gone viral on social media.

On the basis of a complaint lodged by Dileep's brother, an FIR was registered against three unidentified accused, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Akash Kulhari said.

Based on the footage, the cops have arrested one accused.

The prime accused was identified as Vijay Shankar Singh who is posted as a Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) with the Indian Railways, Kulhari said, adding that the accused is still at large.

Restaurant owner Amit Upadhyay, who's familiar with the main accused, has also been arrested. He had failed to inform the police about the incident, said the authorities.

The body has been sent for post-mortem and further probe into the matter is on, the senior official said.

With agency inputsAllahabad: Angered over the killing of a Dalit student of Allahabad University, students on Monday went on a rampage, setting fire to a bus. The angry students also laid siege to the house of District Magistrate Suhas LY, police said.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath announced Rs 20 lakh ex-gratia to the family of the deceased student.

Brutally assaulted by four men, Dalit student Dilip Saroj died on Sunday night after slipping into a coma. He was attacked outside a restaurant in Colonelganj on Friday night.

A waiter at the restaurant, Munna Singh Chauhan, has been arrested and two policemen have been suspended.

Angry varsity students aligned to the Samajwadi Yuvjan Sabha (SYS) and the All India Students Association (AISA) took out a protest march on Monday and raised anti-government and anti-police slogans.

Demanding immediate arrest of the culprits, the students also sought adequate compensation for the deceased student`s family.

Saroj was an LLB 2nd-year student and hailed from Pratapgarh.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati slammed the Chief Minister for the killing of the Dalit student.

In a statement, she said the atmosphere in the country and the state had become "vicious and violent" due to the politics pursued by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

(With PTI and ANI inputs)STEPANOVSKOYE: A Russian passenger plane carrying 71 people crashed near Moscow on Sunday minutes after taking off, killing everyone on board in one of the country`s worst ever aviation disasters.

Investigators said the Antonov An-148 plane went down in the Ramensky district on the outskirts of Moscow at 2:48 pm (1128 GMT) after taking off from Domodedovo airport in the capital.

"Sixty-five passengers and six crew members were on board, and all of them died," Russia`s office of transport investigations said in a statement.

Three children were among the fatalities on a list published by Russian authorities.

The flight was operated by the domestic Saratov Airlines and was headed for Orsk, a city in the Ural mountains.

Russia`s Investigative Committee said numerous possible causes of the crash would be considered, including weather conditions as the country has experienced record snowfall in recent weeks. It will also, consider human error and technical failure, but it did not mention the possibility of terrorism.

More than 400 people and 70 vehicles had been deployed to the crash site, the country`s emergency ministry said.

The site was enveloped in heavy snow, making it difficult to access, with emergency workers forced to park their vehicles and reach the wreckage by foot. Others used snowmobiles and drones to survey the scene.

Russian transport minister Maksim Sokolov said "genetic expertise" would be needed to help identify the victims, adding that it could "take two or three months"."I felt a shock wave," Maria, a resident of a village near the crash site, told AFP.

"The windows shook," she said

The transport investigations office said the plane disappeared from radar screens around four minutes after take-off.

A regional official said the aircraft`s black box had been retrieved.

The Russian-made plane was reportedly seven years old and bought by Saratov Airlines from another Russian airline a year ago.

Saratov was founded in the 1930s and flies to 35 Russian cities. Its hub is Saratov Central Airport in southern Russia.

The governor of the Orenburg region, where the plane was heading, told Russian media that "more than 60 people" on board the plane were from the region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered "his profound condolences to those who lost their relatives in the crash," his spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Putin also cancelled plans to travel to Sochi to meet with Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas. Instead, the meeting will take place in Moscow.Local media website Ural56.ru in the Orenburg region showed footage of distressed relatives at Orsk airport, where the plane had been due to land.

Andrei Odintsov, the mayor of Orsk, told Russian state television that six psychologists and four ambulances with medics were working with the families in the small airport.

Orsk is the second biggest city in the Orenburg region, near Russia`s border with Kazakhstan.

A crisis centre was also set up at Domodedovo, Moscow`s second-largest airport in terms of passenger numbers.

Russia has suffered numerous plane crashes, with airlines often operating ageing aircraft in dangerous flying conditions.

A light aircraft crashed in November in Russia`s far east, killing six people on board.

In December 2016 a military plane carrying Russia`s famed Red Army Choir crashed after taking off from the Black Sea resort of Sochi, killing all 92 people on board.

The choir had been due to give a concert to Russian troops operating in Syria.

Pilot error was blamed for that crash.

In March 2016, all 62 passengers died when a FlyDubai jet crashed in bad weather during an aborted landing at Rostov-on-Don airport.

The Antonov An-148 plane, released in 2004, has a range of 3,600 kilometres (2,200 miles) and can carry 80 passengers.YANGON: For four straight days last month, Rahim Muddinn watched, amazed, as Myanmar's state-run newspapers published special supplements showing Rohingya Muslims accused of being terrorists nearly 250 photos each day.

For the 41-year-old Rohingya man, it was a surreal moment. He was born and raised in Yangon, Myanmar's biggest city and far from the western state of Rakhine, where bloody military operations that followed Rohingya militant attacks in August have driven nearly 700,000 Rohingya into refugee camps in Bangladesh.

"When we first saw those pictures, we started laughing.

We wondered: When will it be our turn to have our pictures in the paper?" Muddinn, a teacher, said in an interview in his Yangon home.

Behind the laughter, though, there is genuine fear.

The pictures are the latest in a series of chilling realizations for the Rohingya minority here.

Though Yangon's tree-lined boulevards and weathered colonial architecture seem a world away from the rice paddies and isolated villages of Rakhine let alone the tarp-walled huts of the teeming refugee camps the government is increasingly linking Rohingya across the country with what it calls a terrorist threat, Muddinn and others say.

Rohingya in Yangon describe a sense of rising persecution and hatred, of vanishing freedoms and opportunities, of Buddhist neighbors and friends suddenly more willing to publicly express sympathies with the military's destruction of Rohingya villages in Rakhine.

"One day it really could be my picture in the paper," said Muddinn. Like most of the other Rohingya who spoke with The Associated Press, he used his Rohingya name because of safety worries. "I do have anxiety. The government can detain anyone it says is a supporter of terrorism or anyone viewed as a threat to the state."

Though Rohingya have always been persecuted in the country, it got much worse after 2012, when violence in Rakhine killed hundreds and drove about 140,000 people, most of them Rohingya, from their homes to camps.

Violence flared again in 2016 and, most dramatically, following the August attacks, when refugees report widespread killing and rape by Myanmar forces. The AP last month confirmed, through extensive interviews with survivors and time-stamped video, a massacre and at least five mass graves, all previously unreported, in the Rakhine village of Gu Dar Pyin.

Many Rohingya have been in Myanmar for generations, but, increasingly, the government and media have played up their claim that they're not citizens but "illegal Bengali interlopers" who entered Myanmar from Bangladesh with the help of corrupt immigration officers.

There are non-Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, and they often report rising discrimination, especially those in Rakhine.

But generally, their situation is less precarious than the Rohingya.

Myanmar's government denies discriminating against Rohingya and other Muslims.Washington: The elusive ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was wounded in an airstrike in May last year and had to relinquish control of the dreaded terror group for up to five months, according to a media report today.

Citing several US officials, CNN reported that American intelligence agencies have assessed with a high degree of confidence that the world's most wanted man was near Raqqa, Syria in May when the missile struck.

Their assessment is based on reports from ISIS detainees and refugees in Northern Syria that emerged months after the airstrike, the officials added.

Baghdadi's injuries were not considered life-threatening but they did mean he could not continue to command the daily operations of the group, the report said.

At the time, ISIS was about to lose control of the Iraqi city of Mosul and its so-called capital Raqqa had been nearly encircled by US-backed forces.

It is unclear whether Baghdadi was hit in a targeted attack or if he was "collateral damage," the report said.

It is also unclear who fired the missile. US officials do not know the exact date of the strike so are unsure if a Coalition aircraft was involved, or whether Baghdadi's injury was the result of a Russian missile.

"There have been isolated strikes by Russians in Raqqa, but as there's no timeline for it, we don't know if it's ours," a US official said.

It is believed the airstrike occurred close to the date offered by the Russian military in June when they claimed to have killed or injured the ISIS leader.

At the time, Russia's Defence Ministry said it was investigating reports Baghdadi had been killed in an airstrike on May 28, on the outskirts of Raqqa, the group's primary stronghold, which US-backed forces took back in October.

Analysts warned at the time reports of Baghdadi's death should be treated with scepticism given the high number of previous false reports.

Baghdadi has made only one public appearance, in July 2014, in the al-Nuri Mosque in Mosul, which was retaken by Iraqi security forces in June last year.

ISIS has since released various audio messages it claims to be of Baghdadi, most recently in September last year which appeared to contain a reference to news events that showed it had been recorded since the Russian claims of his death.

The US-backed campaign is now focusing on the remaining pocket of territory controlled by ISIS -- the stretch of desert along the Syrian-Iraqi border, known as Jazeera.

Various reports have suggested to US intelligence that this is where Baghdadi would most likely be, although it is a vast and sparsely populated area, making his capture complex, the CNN report said.AMMAN: Jordan on Sunday hosted the ninth meeting of the Counter-IS Finance Group, which is affiliated to the US-led international coalition to combat the terror group Islamic State (IS).

Representatives of the member countries discussed means to combat all financing resources for IS in order to eradicate the terror group, Xinhua cited Petra news agency as saying.

Addressing the meeting, which attracted more than 110 representatives of coalition members, Ziad Fariz, governor of the Central Bank of Jordan, highlighted the need to cut off all finance resources to IS, adding that ending all its resources can help uproot the terror group.

Fariz said Jordan, which is on the frontline in fighting terrorism, is committed to continuing its efforts in this regard.

US officials taking part in the meeting said IS, which has lost 95 percent of the territories it used to control in Syria and Iraq, will be completely wiped out soonWASHINGTON: The White House said on Sunday that a senior advisor of US President Donald Trump visited Turkey on February 10 and 11 amid escalating tensions of the two NATO allies over Turkey`s attack in Afrin, Syria.

Citing a White House statement, Xinhua reported that H.R. McMaster, Trump`s National Security Advisor, met with Ibrahim Kalin, Deputy Secretary General and Spokesperson of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in his visit to Istanbul.

During their meeting, Kalin and McMaster affirmed the bilateral strategic partnership and discussed the "priorities and concerns" and common strategic challenges of both countries, said the White House.

It added that they addressed issues affecting bilateral relations in detail and explored ways to expand the joint fight against all forms of terrorism.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will also visit Turkey next week in his Middle East trip and US Secretary of Defense James Mattis is also due to meet his Turkish counterpart Nurettin Canikli in Brussels.

Relations between Washington and Ankara have been highly strained, in part due to US support for the People`s Protection Units (YPG) in Syria.

Turkey sees the YPG as Syrian offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers` Party (PKK), which is designated as a terrorist group by Turkey, the US and the EU.

Manila: The Philippines hardline President, Rodrigo Duterte, has once again sparked a controversy by making a violent, misogynistic comment about female rebels.

According to international media reports, President Duterte had told Philippine soldiers to shoot female rebels in their vaginas.

"Tell the soldiers: 'There's a new order coming from the mayor. We won't kill you. We will just shoot your vagina,'' Duterte had said last week during a speech to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

"If there is no vagina, it would be useless," he added, appearing to suggest that women's genitals are what makes them useful, according to the international media reports.

Duterte, who had earlier served as a city mayor before becoming President, was addressing a group of former communist rebels during which he appeared to encourage the soldiers to target women in conflict.

Duterte's controversial comment was included in an official transcript of the speech released by the Presidential Communications Office.

However, the word "vagina" was replaced with a dash in the transcript.

This is not the first time that Duterte has made controversial and misogynistic remarks. Last summer, his rape joke about Miss Universe was widely condemned.

"What I don't like are kids [being raped]," he said. "You can mess with, maybe a Miss Universe. Maybe I will even congratulate you for having the balls to rape somebody when you know you are going to die."

He also told Muslim fighters in Marawi that they could rape up to three women without fear of punishment.

In the run-up to the presidential election, Duterte sparked outrage by saying that he, as mayor of Davao, "should have been first" to rape an Australian missionary in jail in 1989.

"I was angry because she was raped, that's one thing. But she was so beautiful, the mayor should have been first. What a waste," he said.

Since he came to power on a promise to kill all the countrys drug users and dealers, thousands of Filipinos have been shot dead, prompting the International Criminal Court to open a preliminary examination.

Duterte regularly denigrates and threatens women, but when challenged, insists it was all ''just a joke''.

Just last week his spokesman, Harry Roque, accused women of overreacting to the Presidents comments. I mean, thats funny. Come on. Just laugh, he said.

According to the official transcript from the February 7 event, the crowd did, in fact, laugh.

Several women's rights activists have condemned Duterte's latest violent remark.

(With Agency inputs)Read the original text at 112.ua.

Open source

A dangerous genotype of the measles virus B3 (Kabul) is circulating in Odesa region, as stated in the Odesa Regional State Administration press release. "People from the other regions of Ukraine are infected with European samples of the D8 virus circulate. And only in Odesa region, in addition to the D3 genotype, the B3 (Kabul) is fixed. It is characterized by high pathogenicity and virulence. Its aggressiveness gives a high incidence and lethality. The results are approved by the special laboratory researches in Copenhagen," the report says.

112.ua has asked the doctors to explain the peculiarities of this genotype, but they were confused by this information. "No, I have not heard anything like this, I will read the news, of course, yes ..." Fedir Lapiy, expert of the Ministry of Health, Infectious Diseases, Parasitology department. According to this experienced physician, the type of genotype does not affect the aggressiveness of the virus.

We also contacted the head of the virological reference laboratory of the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine Iryna Demchyshyna. This organization is involved in the identification of measles genotypes and for today, it is the most authoritative arbiter in this field.

Demchyshyna said that the measles genotype B3 (Kabul) was identified in half of Ukraines regions. The doctor assured that the monitoring of measles genotypes in the territory of Ukraine has been carried out for a long time. So, in times of the Soviet Union the samples were sent to the reference laboratory in Moscow, and recently (from 2014) samples are sent to Luxembourg, to the regional reference laboratory of the WHO, for the diagnosing measles and rubella.

According to the latest data, six genotypes of measles are circulating in Ukraine. "The genotype matters when we assess the situation from which country the strain was brought, we have measles strains brought from Singapore: D8, D4, D3. Genotypes were imported from Romania, Bulgaria, and Georgia," Demchyshyna said.

The head of the reference laboratory specified that the results of the last monitoring (on the basis of which six genotypes were established) were received back in September 2017. "On January 22, another batch of samples (about 70) was sent to the Regional Reference Laboratory of the WHO (these are analyzes of people who fell ill, including January 2018.) After 2-3 weeks, we will receive the results," she said.

Irina Demchyshyna assured 112.ua that it is impossible to say which of the genotypes is more or less dangerous: "The measles genotype does not affect the lethality or complications. Those eight victims of the measles in Ukraine in 2017-2018 were not vaccinated. Of course, the measles virus behaves differently in the body of each person, but if a person is not vaccinated, of course, her chances for bad consequences are higher," the specialist noted.

"I cannot say that B3 (Kabul) is the most dangerous among all the genotypes. The fact is that this type did not circulate in the country until the end of 2016," Demchyshyna stated.

Any genotype, regardless of its origin, can lead to disease among people who do not have specific immunity (who are unvaccinated). "The main task is for people to start vaccinating now, as the vaccine protects against measles, regardless of genotype. We have less than 10% of the population vaccinated against measles," the head of the reference laboratory said.

The vaccine used to prevent measles is stable and effective against all genotypes of the virus, our interlocutors assured. "It is not the flu, which has pandemic options. You remember the situation in 2009-2010 when a new vaccine is needed every year because of the change in the circulating of the flu virus. And its composition (influenza vaccine) changes every year," Demchyshyna said. And Fedir Lapiy also agreed with this statement: "Nowadays, various vaccine viruses are used in the vaccine's manufacturing. They can belong to different genotypes," said the doctor.Nine attacks were observed over the period

Russian militants have shelled Ukrainian positions in Donbas nine times since Sunday afternoon. Ukraine's Defence Ministry confirmed this information at a briefing on February 12.

According to the ministry spokesman Dmytro Hutsulyak, the enemy used 82 and 120 mm mortars to shell Vodyane, Talakivka, Shyrokyne. Small arms and heavy machinegun fire were observed near the outpost not far from Avdiivka (all in Donetsk region).

In Luhansk region, Russian mercenaries opened fire in Zaitsev; they used RPGs and infantry fighting vehicles.

None of the Ukrainian servicemen were wounded or killed in action.Open source

From the beginning of the day, eight shellings from militants were reported in Donbas conflict zone. This is reported on the page of the antiterrorist operation headquarters in Facebook.



"Since the beginning of the day, eight bombardments by Russian-occupation groups of the Ukrainian forces positions have been recorded, and none of the Ukrainian soldiers suffered from enemy attacks," the report said.



The Russian-occupation troops continued to fire at the strong points of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, including using weapons that were banned by Minsk agreements.



In the Luhansk direction, the invaders used grenade launchers, heavy machine guns and small arms to attack our strongpoints nearby Zaitseve.



In the Donetsk direction, the enemy broke truce with large-caliber machine guns and small arms in the suburbs of Avdiivka. In the coastal area of our defense, the enemy used weapons of the IFV, mortars of the caliber of 120 mm and 82 mm to fire at the Ukrainian defenders near Talakivka. Also from mortars of various calibers, the enemy fired at strong points near Vodiane and Shyrokine.

Related: Lavrov accuses Ukraine of "breaking the Minsk agreements"It was reported that a citizen of Ukraine was accused of espionage

Open source

Lefort court of Moscow arrested Kostyantyn Davydenko, the citizen of Ukraine detained in annexed Crimea for two months as Interfax reported citing the representatives of the Moscow court.

'According to the appeal of the prosecutor, Davydenko was sentenced to the remaining in custody until April 11', Ekaterina Krasnova, the spokeswoman of the court reported.

Earlier we reported that the FSB, Russia's Federal Security Service claimed that a Ukrainian citizen was detained in Simferopol, in the annexed Crimea. The FSB claimed that Kostyantyn Davydenko, the citizen of Ukraine appeared to have intentionally collected secret information about the activities of the National Guard and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation.

The service opened the criminal case against Davydenko, accusing him of espionage.

The Ukrainian side did not comment on the detention of the Ukrainian.The range of measures on the fulfillment of the Minsk Agreement was signed three years ago

Russia did not fulfill any of the points of the Minsk Agreement during three years and it needs the destabilization of Ukraine as the spokesperson of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry reported on Twitter.

'The range of measures on the fulfillment of the Minsk Agreement was signed on February 12, 2015. But any point of it was fulfilled. Russia needs war and destabilization of Ukraine', Betsa wrote.

The Normandy Four (Ukraine, Germany, France and Russia) signed the agreement 'Minsk II' at the leaders' level on February 12, 2015. The agreements also provide the ceasefire, disengagement of forces and heavy weaponry observed by the OSCE.

As we reported Sergey Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister claimed that Ukraine 'will make a mistake by breaking the Minsk agreements', if it finally approves the law on the reintegration of Donbas on February 11.Open source

The public figures supporting cancelation of international sanctions against Russia either are naive or do not have enough information about the state of affairs in war-torn eastern Ukraine and in the Russian-annexed Crimea. Petro Poroshenko, the Ukrainian leader, said that in his commentary for Bild outlet.

'Everything is perfectly clear: we are not a part of the fancy Russian Empire, we are a sovereign state. I guess people like Mr. Hoeness (Ulrich Hoeness, the president of Bayern Munich FC, - 112 International) should visit Ukraine at least once - not Kyiv, but eastern Ukraine. And then, he will realize it's about one single thing: Putin should get his troops out of Ukraine', Poroshenko said.

Earlier, Hoeness supported the foreign policy of Russian leader Vladimir Putin; this caused an outrage of the Ukrainian side, specifically, the foreign ministry. 'I have a very clear vision of Russia. We, the Germans, are making a huge mistake by attacking that country all the time. It's going to be a lot better if we cooperate. Aggression will change nothing. I don't think the responsibility for Crimea's history rests solely with Russians, while the NATO closes in', he said.Open source

The fortune of the Ukrainian oligarch Rinat Akhmetov will be enough for Ukraine to keep functioning for 36 days. This was stated by Bloomberg agency.

We took 49 countries with various political regimes and expenditure types and the richest individuals of each of these nations. We then compared their net worth as of end-December 2017 to the daily cost of running each government, the agency said.

The index compares the net worth of each countrys wealthiest person to his/her governments spending. If, hypothetically, each government were to run out of resources imminently and the assets of the richest citizen were liquidated and donated to the government, the index estimates how long can this funding prevent the respective government from shutting down offices and agencies.

Ukraine's Rinat Akhmetov could the government running for 36 days.

Cypruss richest man, John Fredriksen, could keep his government running for 441 days.

In comparison, the most expensive governments to run are Japan, Poland, the U.S. and China, where Jack Ma, the worlds 16th richest person with $47.8 billion, could save the Communist Party for four days.

Earlier it was reported that the Cyprus District Court had frozen Akhmetov's assets worth $ 820 million during the case of Ukrtelecom. Among the frozen assets is the London apartment of Akhmetov, which at the time of purchase was the most expensive private residence in the UK.



According to the court's order, Mr. Akhmetov and other respondents can freely dispose of their property as long as the assets remain at a level of at least $ 820.5 million (that is, the amount required by Raga in the proceedings).

As you know, in early 2011, the State Property Fund sold Ukrtelecom for 10.575 billion UAH to ESU, the Ukrainian subsidiary of the Austrian EPIC, which in turn belonged to five individuals - residents of Austria. Two years later, on June 3, 2013, SCM group of Rinat Akhmetov bought a company that owns the shares of Ukrtelecom.



The capitalization of the company is slightly over 83 million dollars

Open source

The Investment Capital Ukraine (ICU) at the request of the Individuals' Deposit Guarantee Fund sold a stake of 4.45 million shares in PJSC Ukrtelecom for 0.1215 UAH per share, totaling around 20,000 dollars. This was reported by Interfax-Ukraine agency.

ICU said last week that the shares were sold at an open auction on the Ukrainian Exchange. The shares were on the balance sheet of Forum Bank undergoing liquidation.

The price of the stake grew by 43% during the auction from the starting price of 14,000 dollars.

The total number of shares issued by Ukrtelecom is 18.726 billion. The capitalization of the company, taking into account the price of 0.1215 UAH per share, is slightly over 83 million dollars.

As we know, in early 2011, the State Property Fund sold Ukrtelecom for 378 million dollars to ESU ltd., - the Ukrainian subsidiary of the Austrian EPIC, which in its turn belonged to five individuals - residents of Austria. Two years later, on June 3, 2013, SCM's group Rinat Akhmetov bought a company that owns the shares of Ukrtelecom.

As it was reported earlier mass rally took place near London residence of Rinat Akhmetov on March 12, 2017. London Euromaidan activists organized and participated in it.

Activists said British special forces must check whether Akhmetov finances occupants army with money from his businesses. If there is an evidence of such facts, they must impose sanctions, including property confiscation in favor of Ukraine.

Civil movement acts together with trade blockade headquarters, trade union of Burshtyn TES and All-Ukraine Independent Trade Union Rivnist, says the statement on Facebook page of London Euromaidan. The protesters were near Akhmetovs house at the address One Hyde Park, 100 Knightsbridge.The negotiations of foreign ministers of member countries are slated for February 13

Open source

Ukraine is to join the negotiations of the World Coalition for fighting the Islamic State, scheduled for February 13. Ukraine's embassy in Kuwait reported that on Monday.

About 70 member countries and international organizations will participate in the ministerial meeting, chaired by the foreign minister of Kuwait Al Khaled-as-Sabbah and the U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

The meeting aims to coordinate the efforts of member countries in fighting the terrorist threats in Syria, Iraq and the rest of the world.The White House is still up to toughest possible sanctions against Pyongyang, - The Washington Post

Open source

While the U.S. pressure on North Korea remains, Washington is still open to talks. Michael Pence, the Vice President of the U.S. said this as quoted by The Washington Post.

'The campaign on applying maximum pressure will continue and will be even more intensive. But if you want to talk, we will talk,' he said.

Asked which steps Pyongyang needs to take to have the sanctions lifted, Pence answered it is exactly why the negotiations are necessary - to find out. He added that the restrictions will remain in place while North Korea keeps up to its nuclear and missile programs.

Last week, the U.S. official said his government gets ready to implement the toughest possible sanctions against Pyongyang; they will be imposed after the ongoing Winter Olympics in South Korea.The Ukrainian side so far has not commented on the incident

Open source

The FSB, Russia's Federal Security Service claimed that a Ukrainian citizen was detained in Simferopol, in the annexed Crimea. The authority's press department reported that on Monday.

'On February 11, the FSB detained Kostyantyn Davydenko, the citizen of Ukraine... the mentioned individual appears to have intentionally collected secret information about the activities of the National Guard and the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation', the message says.

The service opened the criminal case against Davydenko, accusing him of espionage.

Neither Ukraine's foreign ministry nor any other governmental agencies commented on the detention.

Russia illegally annexed Crimea in March 2014; Ukraine and the vast majority of civilized countries never recognized the annexation, claiming that the peninsula remains part of Ukraine. The Russian political leadership and leading enterprises faced sanctions from the EU and the U.S.

Since the annexation, Russian authorities of Crimea have been frequently searching and detaining local residents. Human rights activists threat this as a 'crackdown on dissent'.The gas reservoirs are situated at a depth of 2, 000 meters below the ground

The Polish oil and gas company PGNIG opened new gas reservoirs near Przemysl at the border with Ukraine as Polske Radio reported.

'The drilling near Uikovychy, northerly from Przemysl found out the gas reserves that can be extracted in the amount of 150 cubic meters per minute. It is new resources; however, the reservoirs in a short distance from there are exploited for 60 years', the message said.

It is supposed that the reservoirs will be enough for a few years to exploit. The gas is opened with the use of the innovative methods of the research and drilling. Petr Vozniak, the Head of the PGNIG reported on the plans to continue the search works.

Earlier we reported that the Ukrainian 'Naftogaz' intends to purchase 4-5 billion of cubic meters of gas from Russia and continue the import from the EU in 2018.The man was clearing out snow when he heard shots

A citizen of Hranitne, Donetsk region was shot in the shoulder this afternoon. The incident is investigated as a terrorist attack, the local police department informs.

At around 13:00, the man was clearing out snow near his house, when he heard shots.

The 63-year-old man was hospitalized and went through surgery. His life isnt under threat. The investigation of the incident is underway.

Preliminary, the incident is qualified as a terrorist attack.

As it was reported earlier, on Jan. 21, one civilian was killed, another one wounded in the "grey zone" in a militant attack.

At least 2 523 civilians died since the beginning of the armed Donbas Conflict (April 14, 2014  November 15, 2017), according to the 20th UN report on Human Rights in Ukraine.David Sakvarelidze, member of political party Movement of New Forces, says that Mikheil Saakashvili has arrived in Warsaw, as he wrote on Facebook.

The Polish Border Guard Service confirmed that they have accepted Saakashvili, according to the statement on the services website.

The readmission was the result of the previously accepted application submitted by the Migration Service of Ukraine to the Commander-in-Chief of the Border Guard service of Poland.

As we reported earlier today, Saakashvili was detained by the task force of the Border Guard Service in a restaurant in downtown Kyiv and sent to Poland.

On Sep. 22, 2017, the Mostysky court in Lviv found Saakashvili guilty of unlawfully crossing Ukraines border. In January 2018, the District administrative court of Kyiv refused Saakashvilis appeal to the Migration service as to recognizing him a refugee. On Feb. 6, the court denied this claim again.

This way, Mikhail Saakashvili was staying in Ukraine illegally, so he was readmitted to the country where had come from according to all the jurisdictional formalities, the border guard service emphasized.Open source

Mikheil Saakashvili, ex-President of Georgia and former head of the Odesa Regional State Administration, didnt show up to the Kyiv Prosecutors Office for questioning. Nadiya Maksymets, Kyiv Prosecutors Office speaker, said this on air of 112 Ukraine TV channel.

For now, we dont know the reasons why he and his lawyers didnt inform us about their absence. Moreover, its not the first time the prosecution authorities invite Mr. Saakashvili to explain this within an extradition check. His lawyers already canceled several hearing dates since the end of December, because they are engaged in other trials, she said.

According to Maksymets, they will invite him for the interview again.

I think we will invite him again, as this ensures his rights. A person, who is under an extradition check, can provide to the prosecution body the information and evidence on the reasons, which may prevent his extradition to a foreign country. We dont know why he doesnt want to use this opportunity. The extradition check will continue, Maksymets added.

As it was reported earlier, Petro Poroshenko, the President of Ukraine, by his decree deprived Saakashvili of Ukrainian citizenship.

Kyiv District Administrative Court refused to recognize the decision of the Kyiv Regional State Migration Service of Ukraine as illegal. According to the decision, Saakashvili is not recognized as a refugee or an individual, who needs additional protection after losing Ukrainian citizenship. Tetiana Skochok, the judge of the Kyiv District Administrative Court announced this decision.

Tbilisi Municipal Court found Mikheil Saakashvili guilty for abuse of authority as a president of Georgia and sentenced him to three years of imprisonment on January 5. Saakashvili believes that Ukrainian authority accelerates the process of consideration concerning his status in Ukraine intentionally to have an official reason to extradite him from the country.

On January 26, Saakashvili said that Ukraine addressed Poland to help with his readmission.The service notes that Saakashvili was staying in Ukraine illegally, so he was readmitted to the country from which he came to Ukraine

Open source

Mikheil Saakashvili, former Governor of Odesa region and ex-President of Georgia, was readmitted to Poland, from where he illegally came to Ukraine last September, Oleh Slobodyan, Aide to the Head of Ukraines State Border Guard Service wrote on Facebook.

He noted that today the officers of the Border Guard Service, the employees of the Migration service, and National Police informed Saakashvili about the decision on his readmission to the country where he stayed before illegally arriving in Ukraine. However, while doing that, unidentified supporters of Saakashvili attacked the law enforcement officers. The border guards were forced to defend themselves and call for reinforcement.

Slobodyan reminded that on Sep. 22, 2017, the Mostysky court in Lviv found Saakashvili guilty of unlawfully crossing Ukraines border. In January 2018, the District administrative court of Kyiv refused Saakashvilis appeal to the Migration service as to recognizing him a refugee. On Feb. 6, the court denied this claim again.

This way, Mikhail Saakashvili was staying in Ukraine illegally, so he was readmitted to the country where had come from according to all the jurisdictional formalities, Slobodyan emphasized.

As we reported earlier today, Saakashvili was detained by the task force of the Border Guard Service in a restaurant in downtown Kyiv.The police have arrested some of the supporters of former Governor of Odesa region and ex-President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili near the building of the Presidential Administration, according to Ukrainian News.

At 18:50, the police started to push the protesters away, towards Bankova street, due to which some clashes occurred and a number of protesters were detained by the police. One of them is a former Donbas conflict soldier, Yuriy Tybenko.

As of 19:00, there are around 100 Saakashvilis supporters protesting, but their number is growing.

Now there are more law enforcers securing the building of the Presidential Administration.

As it was reported earlier, Saakashvili was detained by the task force of the Border Guard Service in a restaurant in downtown Kyiv and readmitted to Poland.Open source

The Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office (GPU) established a contact with the International Anti-Corruption Coordination Centre (IACCC, London), which would allow speeding up the exchange of information in the sphere of fighting grand corruption. Evgen Yenin, the Deputy Chief of the GPU said as Interfax-Ukraine reported.

'From now on, Ukrainian law enforcers do not have to wait for several years to receive information from the United States, Britain, Singapore, Interpol, and other agencies. The Prosecutor General's Office has established contact with the International Anti-Corruption Coordination Centre (London)', Yenin wrote on his Facebook page.

According to him, this structure unites the representatives of the mentioned states and institutions 'with the aim of speeding up the exchange of information in the field of counteracting grand corruption'.

Earlier we reported that the Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine investigated more than 23 300 criminal proceedings, mostly on grave and gravest crimes in 2017.A meditation and sharing support group focused on the practice of Buddhist teachings and the 12 steps of recovery while integrating the Dharma and the basic goodness of meditation.

The Heart of Recovery is a meditation and sharing support group with the purpose of bringing together the practice of meditation, the Shambhala and Buddhist teachings, and the Twelve Steps of Recovery with the goal of integrating the basic sanity of the Dharma and the basic goodness of meditation with our commitment to abstinence. We welcome all those who wish to share in these common interests.

The Heart of Recovery is a meditation and sharing support group with the purpose of bringing together the practice of meditation, the Shambhala and Buddhist teachings, and the Twelve Steps of Recovery with the goal of integrating the basic sanity of the Dharma and the basic goodness of meditation with our commitment to abstinence. We welcome all those who wish to share in these common interests.PLEASE NOTE!

Due to the March 23, 2020 NM DOH Public Health Order, These Event Listings Are Not Accurate!

All non-essential businesses are closed, public gatherings are prohibited!

(One day some of these events will be rescheduled or will resume, but they are not happening now!)YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan extended condolences to Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev on the Saratov Airlines passenger plane crash in the Ramensky district, 80 km south-east from Moscow.

With deep sorrow I learned about the sad news of several dozens of victims which resulted from the Saratov Airlines An-148 plane crash in the Ramensky district of Moscow region.

I express deepest condolences on behalf of the government of Armenia.

Please, convey our sympathies and support to the families of the victims, the Armenian PM said in a telegram.

Saratov Airlines Antonov An-148 passenger plane took off from Domodedovo Airport at 14:21 Moscow time with 71 people aboard. Radio contact with flight 730 to Orsk was lost when it vanished from radar several minutes later. The aircraft crashed some 80 kilometers (50 miles) south-east of the capital, in the Ramensky district.

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation with authorities considering technical malfunction, weather conditions and pilot error among the possibilities, RT reports.

Overnight the emergency crews wrapped up their desperate search for possible survivors, as all 65 passengers and six crew of Saratov Airlines Flight 703 were pronounced dead on impact.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Catholicos of All Armenians His Holiness Garegin II extended condolences to Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus' Kirill I on the Saratov Airlines Flight 703 crash in the Ramensky district outside Moscow.

In the telegram the Catholicos extended condolences to the people of Russia and the families of the victims.

Saratov Airlines Antonov An-148 passenger plane took off from Domodedovo Airport at 14:21 Moscow time with 71 people aboard on February 11.

Radio contact with flight 730 to Orsk was lost when it vanished from radar several minutes later. The aircraft crashed some 80 kilometers (50 miles) south-east of the capital, in the Ramensky district.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The actions aimed at increasing Armenias recognition and tourism attractiveness will not be limited only to participation in international exhibitions, there are also plans to hold advertising campaigns and days of Armenia in targeted markets.

Astghik Chaplin  head of the Marketing team at the Tourism Development Fund of Armenia, presented details over the agenda of upcoming events in an interview to ARMENPRESS.

17 Armenian tourism organizations will participate in ITB Berlin 2018 in the future

Within the frames of the programs developed jointly with the State Tourism Committee the Armenian tourism companies will be presented in one pavilion at the ITB Berlin annual exhibition. This year more than 180 countries will participate in the exhibition. Astghik Chaplin said there is a need to increase awareness on Armenia, and the participation in this event mostly solves the issue of increasing awareness level on Armenia. You know that when you try to explain the foreigner where are you from, you understand that many of them hear the word Armenia for the first time. You try to explain who are your neighbors, mention names of famous peoples with Armenian origins and etc. This exhibition creates a platform to meet with tour-operators and establish cooperation with foreign partners, she said.

She highlighted the fact that this year the Fund managed to rent a larger space for the pavilion, as well as to restore the profitable place for practical contacts at the exhibition hall.

During the exhibition the tour companies will present their tour packages which position Armenia as a destination for cultural, religious, adventure tourism, as well as ecotourism. Astghik Chaplin said at the moment the concept of promoting Armenia as a pilgrimage destination is being developed.

Mini day of Armenia in Berlin

This year, in addition to exhibition, Armenia will present another initiative as well. Astghik Chaplin informed that during the ITM Berlin 2018 Armenias mini day will be held. On March 9, at 12:30-14:30, Armenias advertising campaign will be held in another pavilion. All visitors will be provided with souvenirs of Armenian production, information materials on Armenias tourism sites, we will show them our tourism attractions via VR glasses. The visitors will also taste Armenian drinks and dishes, she said, stating that the German media will also attend the event.

Astghik Chaplin noted that the Armenian Embassy in Germany led by Ambassador Ashot Smbatyan greatly contributed to the organization of the upcoming events in Berlin.

Berlin followed by Dubai: ATM Dubai 2018

Astghik Chaplin informed that a smaller Armenian presence will be in Dubai. We are holding talks with the organizers and will soon send an invitation to our tour-operators to see who wants to participate in the event. This is a very important exhibition as the Arab states of the Gulf are targeted markets for us, she said.

This year the ATM Dubai 2018 exhibition will be held on April 22-25. More than 39.000 representatives of public and private sector will participate in the exhibition.

Participation in Profi.Travel online exhibition

This year Armenia will also participate in the Profi.Travel online exhibition famous in CIS states and Georgia. B2B tourism portal of Profi.Travle will include publication of numerous articles presenting Armenias tourism results and etc. Participation in thematic exhibitions is also planned.

Ani NazaryanYEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Washington will continue exerting pressure on North Korea, but is ready to begin negotiations, US Vice President Mike Pence said.

Pence said the maximum pressure will get even more intense, but if you wanna talk, we will talk.

In the interview with Washington Post, Pence was asked in what case the US would cancel sanctions against Pyongyang. He answered : I dont know. Thats why negotiations are needed.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The London City airport has been temporarily closed after a World War Two bomb was found nearby in the River Thames, BBC reports.

The airport will be shut all day and all flights cancelled, affecting up to 16,000 passengers, a spokeswoman said.

The bomb was discovered at about 05:00 GMT on Sunday at George V Dock during pre-planned work at the airport in east London, the Met Police said.

The airport was shut at 22:00 and the Met said it was working with the Royal Navy to remove the device.

Passengers have been told not to travel to the airport as the terminal is closed and to contact their airline.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The biography, creative life, journeys and digitized photos of American-Armenian renowned writer William Saroyan will be presented at his House-Museum the opening ceremony of which is expected to be held on August 31 on the writers 110th birthday anniversary, Angela Avagyan  assistant at Saroyan House project, told Armenpress.

At the moment the construction works of the House-Museum have been suspended as talks are being held with the Fresno City Hall, and this process still continues. Probably, we will receive a permission in late February or early March and will resume the renovation works, she said, adding that the collection works of key materials still continue.

She stated that while establishing the Museum they tried to collect interesting and comprehensive information, articles about Saroyan as much as possible. The Museum will be rich of interactive and innovative solutions. Most of the exhibits, including photos, articles on his trips, notes will be presented at digitized format.

Angela Avagyan informed that not only Armenians, but also foreigners are interested in the opening of the Museum and offer their assistance.

Angela HambardzumyanYEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. During a Sunday mass at the Armenian Church of Ferikoy, Istanbul, one of the attendees expresses protest against Archbishop Aram Ateshyan, who is recognized by Turkish authorities as the patriarchal vicar, Agos reports.

Ateshyan was at the church to deliver the mass, and after it began an Armenian scholar, Besse Kabak, stood up and began reciting Lord Have Mercy with a bible in her hands.

Kabak was escorted out of the church and taken into police custody.

After being detained for nearly an hour, she was released after signing a police record.

Amid the ongoing tensions regarding the patriarchal election, the Istanbul Governors Office had responded with delay to the Armenian Patriarchate, saying it doesnt recognize the elected Archbishop Garegin Bekchyan as patriarchal locum tenens.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Hollywood actor Robert De Niro blasted the Trump administrations stance on climate change, calling America a backward country during a speech Sunday in the Middle East, FOX News reports.

De Niro, a frequent critic of President Trump, said that in the country hes describing, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency suggested last week that global warming may be a good thing for humanity.

I am talking about my own country, the United States of America. We dont like to say we are a backward country so lets just say we are suffering from a case of temporary insanity, he said during remarks Sunday at the World Government Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The rescue service was notified that a citizen is attempting to commit suicide by jumping off the Davitashen Bridge in Yerevan.

The ministry of emergency situations told ARMENPRESS that multiple resucers were dispatched to the scene, including the tactical group of the national center of crisis management, a psychological assistance officer and police.

The attempted suicide was prevented. Authorities didnt release the identity of the citizen, but said that he is 29 years old.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Armenias minister of transport, communication and information technologies Vahan Martirosyan gave an interview to the emerging-europe.com, the ministry told Armenpress.

The Emerging Europe published an article on Armenias IT field which is titled Armenia Makes Global ICT Push.

The author of the article quoted Armenian Prime Minister Karen Karapetyans speech delivered at the Digital Agenda in the Era of Globalisation Forum in Almaty, Kazakhstan in early February, according to which the Armenian IT sector has been growing by 25 per cent per annum over the past several years.

Thereafter some key points from the interview with minister Vahan Martirosyan are presented.

The minister told Emerging Europe that the current tendency looks really impressive and the government is ready to support and ensure this trend continues. According to Vahan Martirosyan, Armenia has great potential for growth, and now Armenia must work on specific boutique solutions  unique and dedicated, because the value is there.

As a result our target should be to increase productivity and deliver pure value to customers, and this should be our doctrine for the next couple of years. It is not easy, considering that more than 70 per cent of IT value is generated by exporting services to global markets, which means that macro-economical factors are really important for the Armenian IT industry, the minister said.

The article says according to the Enterprise Incubator Foundation, the sectors output increased five times between 2010 and 2016 and exceeded 510 million US dollars. At the same time, the number of companies in the sector grew threefold. The country, which has a population of 2.9 million, has 60 universities, of which 15 have strong IT departments. In the academic year 2014-15, almost 10,000 students were enrolled on informational and hi-tech degrees, which accounts for 11.71 per cent of total student population.

We are part of the global society and global challenges affect us the same way as others, the minister adds. On average, each and every nation delivers about 6-8 per cent of technically minded people and we must work on making use of all this potential. We must make the quality of our education better than ever, because only educated people can foster ambitious plans and projects. We must use the power and potential of the Armenian diaspora, which can offer transnational support.

One main vector is already implemented  we have ARMAT robotics and engineering laboratories growing fast in secondary schools all over the country; we have microelectronics and telecommunications being studied in high schools and technical colleges; with the support of world leading ICT companies we created centres of excellence transforming 100 years of traditions at the Pyrotechnical University. We have computer science teaching in each and every school, but more there is still more to be done, the Armenian minister stated.

He is convinced that there are no limits and no stereotypes in the IT field, here the cross-border cooperation is much easier.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. At the invitation of Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev and his wife arrived in Armenia on state visit, the Armenian Presidential Office told Armenpress.

President Serzh Sargsyan and First Lady Rita Sargsyan welcomed the Bulgarian President Rumen Radev and First Lady Dessislava Radeva at the Presidential Palace. The official welcoming ceremony was followed by the private talk between the Armenian and Bulgarian Presidents.

Welcoming his Bulgarian counterpart in Armenia, President Sargsyan expressed hope that his visit to Armenia will be held successfully, and President Radev will return to Bulgaria with warm impressions and agreements reached.

Although ten years passed since my official visit to Bulgaria, I remember that visit with pleasure since it was full of warmth and numerous friendly manifestations. I want to state with satisfaction that during these 25 years we have serious achievements. And despite the fact that we have not fully utilized the potential between our two countries, these achievements are legitimate. They are legitimate as our relations are based on a good historical friendship.

Mr. President, taking this chance, I want to congratulate Bulgaria on chairmanship at the Council of the European Union and wish you success on implementing the priorities of your chairmanship. This is also important for us as we are trying to come closer to the EU.

Once again, welcome to Armenia!, the President said.



In his turn the Bulgarian President thanked Serzh Sargsyan for the invitation to visit Armenia, stating that he accepted it with great pleasure.

The mutual relations between our two countries are not just friendly, they are really friendly from historical perspective. As you said, our two peoples have many commonalities in terms of historical fate and they show great respect and love towards each other. We even owe our peoples since they expect from us more dynamic relations. By your invitation and this visit we, in fact, fill a gap, taking into account that such visit didnt take place for ten years. And this is the best precondition for development of our relations at all spheres. I am very happy that this visit will have a specific dimension. I expect today we will sign four very important cooperation documents. My delegation also includes four people who are presidents of the most important companies, and in this sense I expect that our relations will really intensify in commercial spheres, the Bulgarian President said.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. While on a state visit in Armenia, President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev and his wife visited the Tsisternakaberd Memorial to pay tribute to the memory of the Armenian Genocide victims, reports Armenpress.

The President laid a wreath at the Memorial and flowers at the Eternal Flame.

The Bulgarian President was accompanied by Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian and Mayor of Yerevan Taron Margaryan.

President Rumen Radev and his wife also toured the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute, got acquainted with the exhibits and left a note in the Honorary Guest Book.

Visiting the Memorial for the first time I pray for the memory of all innocent Armenains who lost their lives as a result of the mass atrocities committed in the Ottoman Empire in 1915-1922. I am stunned by the tragedy and human suffering of Armenians who fell victims defending their national identity and heritage. I am deeply moved by the courage and perseverance of those Armenians and their families who struggled to survive but forced to seek refuge abroad. I am proud that in these times of hardships many Armenians found safe haven and second homeland in Bulgaria where their descendants nowadays live side-by-side with their Bulgarian co-citizens, the Bulgarian President wrote in the Guest Book.

Thereafter, he planted a fir tree in the Memorial Park.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian defense ministry denies Azerbaijani media reports that the Armenian Armed Forces have tried to cross the Armenian-Azerbaijani border in an attempted sabotage infiltration.

Defense ministry spokesman Artsrun Hovhannisyan responded to the Azeri media reports mockingly.

Its only in the perception of Azerbaijanis that the theoretical Armenian saboteurs would engage in a sabotage riding a UAZ with white license plates. And why is the car photographed backwards? Or if youve noticed the car, then where are the saboteurs? Hovhannisan said on Facebook.

The Azerbaijani APA news agency published a footage of a destroyed UAZ vehicle, where it is obviously visible that the car doesnt have Armenian defense ministry black license plates, but rather ordinary white ones.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Armenias delegation led by minister of agriculture Ignati Arakelyan departed for Vienna on February 12, the ministry told Armenpress.

On February 12 the minister will meet with State Secretary of the Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism Josef Plank. During the meeting issues relating to deepening the cooperation in the field of agriculture will be discussed.

The Armenian minister will also meet with other Austrian officials.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Turkish authorities continue the crackdown on people who express protest against the countrys military intervention in Afrin, Syria, an operation known as Olive Branch.

The total number of arrested protesters has reached 666, Diken reports.

According to the interior ministry, 474 citizens of Turkey have been arrested for making social media posts about the operation.

192 have been arrested for rallying against the operation.

The arrested are accused in terror propaganda.

In January 2018, the Turkish military began an operation in the Kurdish-majority Afrin Canton and the Tel Rifaat Area of Shahba Canton in Northern Syria. Turkey code-named the operation as Operation Olive Branch. In the pretext of fighting terror, Turkey is actually targeting the Kurdish population.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Vahram Baghdasaryan, head of the Republican Party faction of the Parliament, says there is a desire among ruling party officials to see President Serzh Sargsyan as Prime Minister of the country after his tenure in office ends.

During a press briefing Baghdasaryan said they havent yet discussed the issue of a candidate for PM, however he said that reporters are correct to notice that many ruling party members desire to see the President as PM.

Anyone who is a HHK member is obliged to abide the decision of the political force. When we organize discussions, make a decision, we will address this issue, he said.

Asked whether or not there is another person under consideration for PM, he said the ruling party hasnt discussed the candidacy of anyone yet.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The statement of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs made on the results of the regional visit contains concrete and key points, but it would be preferable if the statement didnt contain an equality sign and was more addressed, Vice Speaker of the Armenian Parliament Eduard Sharmazanov told Armenpress.

Probably, taking into account diplomatic correctness, the Co-Chairs didnt clearly mention the name Azerbaijan, but its clear for everyone that this statement was directed against Azerbaijans unconstructive policy, the Vice Speaker said.

Sharmazanov stated that by this statement the Co-Chairs highlighted the necessity to implement the Vienna, St. Petersburg and Geneva agreements. Armenia, Artsakh and the Co-Chairs have always supported it, whereas Azerbaijan not. The Co-Chairs once again highlight the need to implement these agreements which is very important, Sharmazanov noted.

The statement of the Co-Chairs says the conflict should be solved based on the core principles of the Helsinki Act, including the non-use of force, territorial integrity, and the equal rights and self-determination of peoples. According to Sharmazanov, its extremely important that in the statement the Co-Chairs once again, despite Azerbaijans unconstructive approach, highlight the peoples right to self-determination. In other words, this is an indivisible right which is highlighted by this statement, the Vice Speaker added.

The statement also criticizes the ceasefire violations as a result of which human casualties are being reported. Eduard Sharmazanov stated that everyone knows that these human losses are due to Azerbaijan. The Co-Chairs call on to avoid provocative statements. Its obvious that official Yerevan never makes provocative statements. Provocative statements were made by Azerbaijani president Ilham Aliyev who said their strategic goal is to return Yerevan and Zangezur to Azerbaijan. And in a diplomatic language this is a clear message to Azerbaijan, he said.

The Parliaments Vice Speaker stated that there is no point in the statement which is not in accordance with the position of the Armenian side, but he added that the statement would be more powerful and more complete if it clearly mentioned Azerbaijan name. But I think that its very clear to all sides, including the international community and the sides engaged in negotiations, that the messages of this statement are directed against Azerbaijans unconstructive policy. But the most important is that there is no point which is against the position of the Armenian side, Eduard Sharmazanov said.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The third electricity transmission line between Iran and Armenia will soon be commissioned, Iranian Ambassador to Armenia H.E. Seyed Kazem Sadjadi told a press briefing at the YSU.

I hope we will witness it in the nearest future, he said.

Under the agreement Armenia will receive gas for the to-be-exported electricity energy.

The Ambassador also mentioned that Iran is also ready to sell gas to Armenia under convenient prices.

We are discussing this issue and I hope that we will soon see progress over this matter. If Armenia gets a bit active in the energy sector, I think very big steps will be taken and it will contribute for job creation in Armenia, he said.

He noted that Armenia and Iran have a very good cooperation in the energy sector.

We plan to form cooperation in the frames of SUAP also, he said.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The Nagorno Karabakh conflict can be settled only when Azerbaijan refuses from its maximalist and unrealistic expectations, Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan told reporters at the Presidential Palance after the meeting with President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev, reports Armenpress.

As long as they will not refuse from that and continue staying in dreams and rave about capturing Yerevan or Zangezur, we cannot hope that the conflict will be settled, the President said, adding that he repeatedly announced Armenias readiness to intensify the negotiations under the proposals of the OSCE Minsk Group, but, unfortunately, they were not been mutual from Azerbaijan.

President Serzh Sargsyan said the reason of holding snap presidential elections in Azerbaijan is not linked with quickly settling the NK conflict. He said he cant believe that a sudden desire emerged in Azerbaijan to solve the NK conflict.

I am convinced that you are aware of the real reasons of holding snap presidential elections in Azerbaijan. I dont think that a sudden desire emerged in Azerbaijan to settle the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Previously Azerbaijan had numerous chances in terms of settling the conflict, but, unfortunately, its actions led to the point that now we can only talk about the lost chances, Serzh Sargsyan said.

As for Bulgarias stance on the NK conflict, the Armenian President thanked President Rumen Radev for Bulgarias balanced position since this country at all arenas supported the EUs position and the peaceful settlement of the conflict. I understand why such a question arose within you. I think the reason is that last year in autumn when Mr. President was in Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani President thanked for Bulgarias position, in fact it was a provocation, but we are not subject to provocations. We trust our friends and know their real position, President Serzh Sargsyan said.

He also mentioned another fact which could question Bulgarias position, which, however, is not the expression of that countrys official stance. I also understand very well the fact that how it happened that during the visit of the Azerbaijani President a statement was adopted where the talk was about only one principle. These are temporary phenomena and do not reflect the states position. Any official of any country can make different statements with any Azerbaijani official, but we should see who has a right to make a statement according to that countrys constitution, laws. In this regard we already have a very great achievement, there are very concrete formulations in the document signed with the EU on November 24. The EU member states will ratify that agreement, and this means that this document in that countries will receive a force of law with all consequences deriving from it, the Armenian President said.

At the invitation of Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev arrived in Armenia on state visit on February 11.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Armen Sarkissian, the ruling partys candidate for the upcoming presidential election, says if elected he doesnt rule out meetings with First President Levon Ter-Petrosyan and Second President Robert Kocharyan.

After touring the physics-mathematics school after Artashes Shahainyan in Yerevan, Sarkissian told reporters that he has met with Armenian National Congress members  the party led by former president Ter-Petrosyan.

We had rather open discussions. I disagree with their assessments over certain issues, but there were also other issues regarding which we had a common opinion. I believe our relations will continue in the same manner, Sarkissian said.

Asked if he is going to meet Levon Ter Petrosyan individually, Sarkissian said : I think we can talk about such meeting when I will decide to be nominated and get elected to office. At that time I will perhaps meet both the first, and second presidents, he said.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Bulgaria believes that the Nagorno Karabakh conflict can be settled peacefully at the mediation of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs and EU support, Bulgarian President Rumen Radev said in response to a question from a reporter, who asked: Mr. Radev, Azerbaijani media are regularly distorting the approach of various countries, including Bulgaria, regarding the Karabakh conflict settlement. Please present your stance and present whether or not it matched the stance of the European Union.

Bulgaria has had a very clear stance that the conflict can be solved peacefully, with the mediation of the Minsk Group  co-chaired by USA, Russia and France, and EU support. Active dialogue of the presidents of the two countries, which will be based on less emotions and more wisdom, is very important. Bulgaria, as a country chairing the Council of the European Union, will support the advancement of this stance, Radev said at a joint press conference at the Presidential Palace in Yerevan.

President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev and First Lady Desislava Radeva arrived in Yerevan on February 11 at the invitation of Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan.

Minister of foreign affairs Edward Nalbandian welcomed the Bulgarian president and his spouse in the Armenian capitals Zvartnots airport.

President Radev is expected to meet with the President, the Prime Minister, and the Parliament Speaker of Armenia.

As part of the state visit, the Bulgarian president will also visit the Mother See of Holy Etchmiatsin, where he will have a meeting with Catholicos Garegin II. President Radev will visit the Cathedral and the treasury after the meeting.

After holding Armenian-Bulgarian talks at the Presidential Palace in Yerevan, President Sargsyan and President Radev will deliver a joint press conference.

Documents on enhancing bilateral cooperation in a number of sectors are expected to be signed.

On the sidelines of the state visit, the Bulgarian president will also visit the Matenadaran Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, the TUMO Center For Creative Technologies and the Peyo Yavorov No 131 school of Yerevan.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. The launch project of the hydro power plant of Meghri will soon be finalized, Irans Ambassador to Armenia H.E. Seyed Kazem Sadjadi told a press briefing in YSU, adding that soon a delegation will visit Armenia from Iran.

The delay of launch of the Meghri HPP didnt happen from our side. The governments of our two countries dont have fault in this. The companies are guilty, he said.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. A group of students of the University of California San Diego (UCSD) held a silent protest outside Geisel Library against the United States failure to recognize the Armenian Genocide, The Guardian reports.

The protest participants held red posters with slogans like Tomorrows intellectuals against Genocide, Stain of Denial. One poster depicted a drawing of Adolf Hitler next to one of the three pashas who perpetrated the Armenian Genocide and asked Where is our recognition?

Meg Zargarian, a member of UC San Diegos Armenian Students Association, said during these days similar protests are being held in educational centers from the east to west coast.

Student Albert Danielyan said the remembrance of the Armenian Genocide is important as it was one of the first modern ethnic cleansings. Although the US has acknowledged the Holocaust, it still denies the Armenian Genocide. It should be recognized so we can have our voices heard, he said.

A similar silent protest was organized by the members of the UC Los Angeles Armenian Students Association. Representative of the Associations leadership Ara Manjikyan expressed hope that such protests will contribute to increasing awareness on Armenian Genocide among the students since these students are going to form the US policy in the future.YEREVAN, 12 FEBUARY, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 12 February, USD exchange rate stood at 483.11 drams. EUR exchange rate stood at 592.49 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate stood at 8.32 drams. GBP exchange rate stood at 672.39 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price stood at 20432.02 drams. Silver price stood at 253.88 drams. Platinum price stood at 15144.04 drams.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian received on February 11 newly appointed Ambassador of Mali to Armenia Tiefing Konate (residence in Moscow), who handed over the copies of his credentials.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Foreign Ministry of Armenia, congratulating and wishing success to Ambassador Konate, Minister Nalbandian hoped that the newly appointed Ambassador will foster further strengthening and expanding of the relations between Armenia and Mali.

Thanking for the warm wishes, the Ambassador of Mali assured that he will spare no efforts to foster the development of bilateral and multilateral relations between the two states.

During the meeting the sides spoke about the preparatory works of the Yerevan summit of the The International Organisation of la Francophonie.

The interlocutors exchanged ideas on partnership in international organizations and development of trade and economic relations.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. In the sidelines of the state visit to Armenia President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev visited with his wife the Tumo center for creative technologies in Yerevan.

ARMENPRESS reports Director of the center Marie Lou Papazian presented to the guest the educational programs of the center, ideas, characteristic features, and the main directions taught at Tumo.

Rumen Radev told the reporters that he is highly impressed by the activities of the center.

I am really highly impressed. Armenia is a state that thinks about future, and the future is our children. Creating such a center for the development of the youth is really a good idea, the Bulgarian President said.

Rumen Radev assessed the combination of almost all the branches of the technological sphere in one center as very productive.

Of course, we have similar centers in Bulgaria as well, but they operate separately. You have combined all the branches in one center and thats very convenient for communicating, planning and implementing ideas, Rumen Radev said.

He toured in the classrooms, talked to the students and took a photo with them.

At the invitation of Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, President of Bulgaria Rumen Radev arrived in Armenia on state visit on February 11.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. Former Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili, the leader of Ukraines Rukh Novykh Sil (or the Movement of New Forces), has arrived in Poland, ARMENPRESS reports, citing TASS, the countrys border service said in a statement on Monday.

"Mikhail Saakashvili has been received on Polands territory," the statement reads. "The relevant decision was based on the readmission request the Ukrainian National Migration Service sent to the border services chief. Given that Mikhail Saakashvili is the husband of an EU member state citizen, Ukraines request has been granted," the Polish border service added.

Meanwhile, Spokesman for Ukraines State Border Service Oleg Slobodyan said that there were no legal reasons for Saakashvilis return to the country.

"As of now, there are no legal reasons for that," he told the 112.Ukraina TV channel. "The said person was present on Ukraines territory illegally, as confirmed by a number of decisions. In fact, the way he entered Ukraine was illegal in itself," Slobodyan added.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. A state dinner was given in honor of Bulgarian President Rumen Radev and Mrs. Desislava Radeva on behalf of President Serzh Sargsyan and Mrs. Rita Sargsyan on February 12.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Armenian Presidents Office, Presidents Sargsyan and Radev raised toasts, speaking about the interstate relations of Armenia and Bulgaria, as well as the friendship between the two peoples based on mutual respect, shared value system and traditions.

The basis of our friendship is firm, but even the firmest basis needs more care and attention. We must continue working to further develop our relations, Serzh Sargsyan said in his toast.

In his speech the Bulgarian President thanked President Serzh Sargsyan vor the invitation to visit Armenia, as well as the hearty a cordial attitude towards himself, his wife and the entire delegation.

I am excited since the President of Bulgaria visits Armenia after 14 years of pause and I am convinced that todays productive meetings will foster the activation of political dialogue and will create conditions for deepening bilateral cooperation between Armenia and Bulgaria in all the spheres of mutual interest, President Radev said in his speech.YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 12, ARMENPRESS. A group of Latvian, Hungarian, Algerian, Italian, Russian and French journalists and bloggers visited Artsakh's military units and divisions located in the north part pf the frontline on February 12 to prepare articles and reports on the national liberation struggle of the Armenians of Artsakh, dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Karabakh movement.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the DefenseMinistry of Artsakh, at the place of the permanent deployment of military units, journalists attended a solemn meeting dedicated to the beginning of the educational year. Also, on the frontline, they got acquainted with the operational-tactical situation, the social conditions of servicemen and the schedule of combat duty.We've detected that JavaScript is not enabled in your browser.

You must enable JavaScript to use craigslist.Senate Republicans suggested the state could approach a constitutional crisis if it enables a governor to control money outside the normal budgetary process. Some suggested Democrats' loyalty to Gov. Roy Cooper surpassed their commitment to public education, if not the constitution itself.Senators spent more than 90 minutes Friday, Feb. 9, debating House Bill 90 before passing the measure 37-5. H.B. 90 is a House-Senate conference report providing money to hire teachers, satisfying a mandate to reduce class sizes in grades kindergarten through three; revamping the Bipartisan State Board of Elections and Ethics Enforcement to address a court order; and taking charge of a $57.8-million discretionary fund Gov. Roy Cooper negotiated with the operators of the Atlantic Coast pipeline The fund has faced tough scrutiny from Carolina Journal and various media outlets. It also has raised questions from lawmakers and other experts over whether it violates the separation-of-powers doctrine in the state constitution, since the agreement (called a "voluntary contribution" by the governor's budget office) gives Cooper full control of the funding and would not include any legislative oversight.During the debate, Democrats complained that the conference report combined three unrelated measures into one bill - Sen. Angela Bryant, D-Nash, called the latter two "poison pill" provisions - deserving more time and separate debates. Republicans cited the urgency of acting quickly and questioned Democrats' willingness to provide cover for Cooper when doing so could threaten the ability of the General Assembly to set spending policy as the constitution requires.Sen. Dan Bishop, R-Mecklenburg, had a pointed exchange with Bryant over the matter.Bishop said, if the General Assembly allows any governor to raise money outside the budget process and exercise control over it.Senate Majority Leader Harry Brown, R-Onslow, said it would be irresponsible to put those powers in any governor's hands.Bryant, and Sen. Erica Smith-Ingram, D-Northampton, suggested the money in the discretionary fund would go to worthy causes and saw no problem with letting it go forward.Brown and Bishop also cited urgency as justification to include the elections board reforms in the conference report. Both noted the pending election season. Candidate filing for races opens Monday, Feb. 12.In a statement issued after the vote, Brown said,The House is expected to take up the measure Tuesday, Feb. 13.Czech PM Babis and President Zeman "are acting in conflict with the Czech Constitution"

12. 2. 2018

cas cteni 2 minuty



Czech President Milos Zeman has infringed the Constitution by giving Andrej Babis an indefinite period of time to form a government, says Czech constitutional lawyer Jan Kysela. Babis's government is also infringing the Constitution. Although it has officially resigned, Babis's government remains in office and keeps making important decisions, although it does not have a mandate to do so.

Andrej Babis's ANO movement won the general election which was held in the Czech Republic in October 2017, but his party has managed to secure only 78 seats in a 200-seat parliament. Babis has since then formed a minority government, but he has failed to secure a vote of confidence in the Czech Parliament, so his government currently operates without the Parliament's support.













Last week, Czech President Zeman told Andrej Babis that he can take as long as he wants to form a government and to gain confidence of the Czech Parliament. However, it is normally expected that a newly formed government will acquire the confidence of Parliament within 30 days of being set up. Babis's minority government was created on 14th December 2017.





The Czech Constitution is based on the principle that a government in office must have confidence of Parliament, says Kysela. The President cannot grant Babis indefinite time to gain confidence of Parliament for his government because that is in conflict with the constitution.





"The President of the Republic is dutibound to make sure that a government that has resigned remains in office only as long as it is necessary and is replaced by a government that has been given confidence by Parliament as soon as possible," says Kysela. "The President must be the protector of the Constitution and not someone who infringes the Constitution."





A government that has resigned is entitled only to carry out routine administrative duties. It does not have the power to make major political decisions, which is what Babis's government has been doing.





If the Czech President infringes the Constitution, Senate, the Upper House of the Czech Parliament can apply for his prosecution. However, a two-third majority of Senators' votes is needed for such a decision. It is a question whether so many Senators would be willing to support such action, added Kysela.













Source in Czech HERE

0Years ago, I used to party with some folks from Centerville, Virgina's Cox Farms, a well-known and well-loved family farm, produce market, and host of an amazing annual Fall Festival. I found them a bright, creative, and fun-loving gaggle of humans who were extremely passionate about food production and building community around food. There was always a sense of mirth and mischief about them, too. Back in the 80s, their T-shirts and bumper stickers read: "You can't lick Cox for fresh produce" and (IIRC) featured a cartoon of a picker holding a basket full of phallic-looking vegetables. They've also displayed messages like: "Dad loves Cox, too!" (for Father's Day) and "We're so excited, we wet our plants!"

No stranger to the negative reaction of their provocative signage, the Cox farmers have created a new round of controversy with their latest series of signs taking a stand against white supremacy and Islamophobia. The response they posted on Facebook is wonderful. It's astonishing that speaking out against white supremacy would be a controversial position, but hey, not here in The Upside Down. Here is their response to the naysayers in the community:

Our little roadside signs have power. Most of the time, they let folks know that our hanging baskets are on sale, that today's sweet corn is the best ever, that Santa will be at the market this weekend, or that the Fall Festival will be closed due to rain. During the off-season, sometimes we utilize them differently. Sometimes, we try to offer a smile on a daily commute. Sometimes, a message of support and inclusion to a community that is struggling makes someone's day. Sometimes the messages on our signs make people think and sometimes, they make some people angry.

Last week, some of our customers and neighbors asked us to clarify the sentiment behind our sign that said "Rise & Resist." So, we changed it to read "Rise Up Against Injustice" and "Resist White Supremacy." We sincerely believe that fighting injustice and white supremacy is a responsibility that can- and should- unite us all. We struggle to see how anyone other than self-identified white supremacists would take this as a personal attack.

Some have asked why we feel called to have such a message on our signs at all. Here is why:

Cox Farms is a small family-owned and family-operated business. The five of us are not just business-owners; we are human beings, members of the community, and concerned citizens of this country. We are also a family, and our shared values and principles are central to our business.

We're not seeking to alienate folks who have different perspectives on tax reform or infrastructure spending. But when it comes to speaking out against systems of oppression and injustice, we see it as our moral responsibility to use our position of privilege and power, along with the tools of our trade and the platforms available to us, to engage visibly and actively in the fight for justice. Our roadside sign messages are one small way we do this.

Some folks have expressed that they would prefer not to know where we stand. We appreciate that being an informed consumer can sometimes be exhausting, disappointing, and frustrating. It can involve making hard choices about values and priorities. We respect that some have decided to no longer patronize our business as a result. We also know that there are some who may see our signs, roll their eyes, and still choose to come back for the kettle corn. We get it.

Desmond Tutu said, "If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor." We consider the present state of our country to be far beyond partisan bickering or politics as usual. We see our nation in crisis, and peoples' lives and safety and humanity are hanging in the balance. We are gravely concerned about the hateful words, destructive actions, and detrimental policies coming from this administration. We are not neutral, and we will not feign neutrality to appease our customers. We are committed to speaking out for love and justice, even if it costs us some business.

Almost twenty years ago, some visitors started a boycott because we fly rainbow flags over our hay tunnel, and they were concerned that Cox Farms was "promoting the homosexual agenda." A few years ago, some folks got very angry about the Black Lives Matter sign hanging in a window of an owner's home on the farm. Last year, some locals took offense at our "We love our Muslim neighbors" and "Immigrants make America great!" sign messages. What do all of the messages have in common? They are statements of inclusion. They attempt to tell members of our community, people that might feel discriminated against or alienated in a particular moment, "Hey, you are welcome here, too." To our customers and neighbors that feel that this is somehow a divisive stance, we ask you to reflect on the possibility that your lived experience may be one that hasn't necessitated a message of inclusion to make you feel welcome.

We're not strangers to controversy or hard conversations. When we take a stand, we do so knowing that it could hurt our bottom line, and we are comfortable taking that risk. As a family, we know that when you're on the right side of history, love wins. Right now, it means that some people in our community no longer feel comfortable supporting our business, and we respect that. While our intention was not to make anyone feel unwelcome, we certainly respect every consumer's right to decide which businesses to support in our community.Created as a stop-gap to save undocumented migrants from getting killed by cars on Interstate 5 near the San Diego area border with Mexico, the signs soon took on a symbolic use beyond the original intent. The last one appears to have been stolen and won't be replaced. The Union-Tribune spoke to Caltrans designer John Hood about the sign, which was a replacement for an all-text sign:

"It doesn't just mean they are running across the freeway," Hood told the Union-Tribune in 2005, describing his choice of imagery. "It means they are running from something else as well. I think it's a struggle for a lot of things, for opportunities, for freedom."

Caltrans installed 10 signs, focusing on areas like San Ysidro and the San Clemente checkpoint where migrants were known to cross the interstate on foot frequently.

The silhouette of a man with a mustache and woman in a dress running with their young daughter, her hair in pigtails trailing behind her, has been repurposed by different sides of the immigration debate over the years.It's fun to fantasize about dropping out of the mainstream to live a life of nomadic travels and adventure. I oughtta know, having tried it myself when my family sold everything to move to the island of Rarotonga. And we learned quickly that fantasy and reality don't always mesh the way we imagine it will. After only five months my family returned to Los Angeles after many misadventures, some of which included chronic fungus infections, relentless lice, school bullying for our daughter who hadn't had that problem back home, and pneumonia that our infant contracted without up-to-date medical care available.

So I applaud those who attempt to break out, even if their adventure lasts for only a few months  or a mere two days, such as the case with a couple who had dreams of living on the high seas.

Tanner Broadwell and Nikki Walsh were tired of living a 9-5 lifestyle, and decided to sell everything, buy a sailboat, and travel the world. Having no sailing experience didn't deter them (oops). The couple, in their 20s, spent two years planning their adventure, and Broadwell Ubered on the side to speed things up. Last April they bought a 28-foot sailboat, spent time and more money fixing it up, and finally set sail with their two-year-old pug last week from Anclote Key in Florida.

Welp, a two-day adventure is better than none, some might agree.

According to Tampa Bay Times:

It was about 8:45 p.m. when they sailed into a new port, navigating a channel they had never sailed before, in the dark, fog rolling in. Broadwell steered while Walsh stood at the bow, lighting their path with a spotlight, trying to figure out the navigational buoys. But the red and green buoys seemed out of place, they said, and the shoal wasn't where their 2016-17 navigational charts said it should be. Had Hurricane Irma altered the channel? Then it happened: The Lagniappe struck something underwater. Walsh almost flew off the deck.

They called for help and made it back, along with their pug, to land as their boat sank, taking everything with it. But the couple isn't giving up  they plan to work and save and hope to try this again in the future. Hopefully, this time, with more sailing lessons under their belt.Tom Blachford chronicled Palm Springs at midnight (previously). Now he's back with Nihon Noir, a Blade Runner inspired look at Tokyo at night, like this imposing shot of the Edo-Tokyo Museum.

Via Wallpaper:

The Australian photographer cites the 'hyper-saturated palette' of film director Nicolas Winding Refn as one inspiration for Nihon Noir  though it's Blachford's palpable homage to neo-noir sci-fi classic Blade Runner that ultimately shines. 'The art direction and premise set out by the futurist Syd Mead is so dense and well thought out. We are two years away from the 2019 in which [Blade Runner] was set, and although we don't live in off-world colonies just yet his subtle predictions about how our cities would grow are becoming true,' Blachford told us. 'The external augmentation of our buildings with air conditioners, pipes, ducts and cables as well as the density of the high rise buildings feel very much within what he predicted.'

More on his Instagram:

 Nihon noir: Tom Blachford sheds light on Tokyo's dark side (Wallpaper)Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte had a message for women who oppose him: "Tell the soldiers. 'There's a new order coming from the mayor. We won't kill you. We will just shoot your vagina.' If there is no vagina, it would be useless."

From The Washington Post:

Duterte regularly denigrates and threatens women, but when challenged, he insists it was all just a joke. Just last week, his spokesman accused women of "overreacting" to the president's comments. "I mean, that's funny. Come on. Just laugh," Harry Roque said.

According to the official transcript from the Wednesday event, the crowd did, in fact, laugh at Duterte's remarks.

Duterte, who was elected president in 2016, has made headlines for "joking" about the rape of a kidnapped Australian who was later killed and for telling troops to rape women in conflict. He often shares unsolicited opinions on the sexual attractiveness of women, particularly female politicians who question his policies, in an apparent effort to demean, shame and silence them.Never let your pristine kicks touch the filthy ground with these thick-soled shoe-sandals. They strap onto another pair of shoes, in this case a pair of military-style, high-top sneakers.

Both pairs are the latest offerings of Chinese fashion brand Sankuanz who unveiled the bulky combo on the runway at Paris Men's Fashion Week in late January.

NPR reports:

[Sankuanz] sent male models down the runway wearing high top sneakers  that never actually touched the runway. "They're transformable sneakers that have an outer layer of protective sandal that you can enter Velcro into and you can strap them on or off," is how Sankuanz publicist Courtney Wittich describes the concept. But ultimately, they look like big-cushioned, rubber and plastic orthopedic Birkenstocks  with Velcro straps  and you strap them on top of your existing shoes. Or they look like open-concept galoshes. That's up to you "You can walk totally normal in them and it gives you an extra layer of protection and then also height," Wittich says.

I wonder if they were inspired by these vintage Space Boots from the late sixties:

Or maybe by these Moon Shoes:

Either way, the shoe-sandals will be available in August for $355 and I don't think the sneakers are included in that price.

image 1 via Hypebeast, image 2 via Ebay, image 3 via AmazonFeatured Post Zapatista Delegation Prepares to Board Flight for Tour for Life in Europe Sept. 13, 2021 Photo by Roberto Garcia Ortiz, La Jornada Now! Mexico City Airport, morning of Sept. 13, 2021 Photos 2 and 3 courtesy Assemblea catalana de ...

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About Censored News Censored News is published by Brenda Norrell. Since 2006, Censored News has received more than 20 million pageviews. As a collective of writers, photographers and broadcasters, we publish news of Indigenous Peoples and human rights. Contact publisher Brenda Norrell: brendanorrell@gmail.com

From the publisher Censored News is published by Brenda Norrell, a journalist in Indian country for 39 years. Norrell created Censored News after she was censored and terminated as a staff reporter at Indian Country Today in 2006. She began as a reporter at Navajo Times during the 18 years that she lived on the Navajo Nation. She was a stringer for AP and USA Today and later traveled with the Zapatistas through Mexico. She has been blacklisted by all the mainstream media for 14 years. Contact brendanorrell@gmail.com

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by Staff reporter

Ailing Movement for Democratic Change leader Morgan Tsvangirai has met with the party's acting president. Elias Mudzuri at his hospital bedside at a Johannesburg Hospital earlier today. This comes after reports that there was a power struggle within the opposition party in Zimbabwe.Tsvangirai has dismissed reports that he had changed the roles and responsibility of the acting party president. SABC Foreign Editor Sophie Mokoena spoke to Mudzuri after his meeting with Morgan Tsvangirai. Chamisa, Mudzuri fightThe MDC-T is being dogged by power struggles. This as both the vice presidents claim to be acting president. But ailing Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai has dismissed those claiming to be acting as president of the party. In a statement allegded to have been issued by the leader today, Tsvangirai says he has made no changes in the roles and responsibilities of the MDC-T Vice Presidents. For more on the story we are now joined on the line by MDC vice president, Nelson Chamisa in Harare, Zimbabwe.Edwin Tsvangirai confirms Tsvangirai, Mudzuri meetingNews / National

by Staff reporter

Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo is appearing before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines and Energy to give a detailed explanation on the tender awarded to him for the Gwanda Solar Power Plant, the payment processes and the progress made so far.The committee is seeking to hear submissions regarding the Intratek and Zimbabwe Power Company US$5 million solar power deal.There was false start to the Intratek-ZPC power deal hearing as committee members rejected the presence of Mr Bruce Tokwe and Farai Zuva, both lawyers representing other Intratek shareholders.The legislators say Mr Chivayo is not on trial, hence he shouldn't bring lawyers.However, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines and Energy Mr Temba Mliswa says the presence of lawyers is not a problem and they can only interject or raise a red flag if there seems to be interference.Chivayo maintains he hasn't invited the lawyers, with the lawyers saying they are there for the interests of other Intratek shareholders.Members of Parliament were also contesting the presence of ZESA Holdings members (CEO Mr Josh Chifamba and PR Manager Fullard Gwasira) in the gallery.More details to follow....News / National

by Staff reporter

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Gaborone, Botswana for a 2-day state visit to the diamond rich-country.The Botswana government rolled out the red carpet for President Mnangagwa this Monday morning.President Ian Khama was on hand at the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport to warmly welcome his Zimbabwean counterpart on his first state visit.A military band played the two countries' national anthems as a 21-gun salute was being fired.President Mnangagwa then inspected a military guard mounted in his honour.President Khama then introduced President Mnangagwa to more than 15 members of his cabinet who were part of the welcoming party.President Mnangagwa also introduced 11 Zimbabwean cabinet ministers who travelled ahead of the Presidential delegation.These are Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Retired Lieutenant General Sibusiso Moyo; Environment, Water and Climate Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, Home Affairs and Culture Minister Dr Obert Mpofu, Minister for Presidential Affairs Responsible for Monitoring of Government Programmes Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, Energy and Power Development Minister, who is also Acting Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Simon Khaya Moyo, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Dr Joram Gumbo, Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development Minister Professor Amon Murwira, Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando, Industry, Commerce and Enterprise Development Minister Dr Mike Bimha, Finance and Economic Planning Minister Patrick Chinamasa, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Ambassador Joey Bimha among others.Opinion / Columnist

There are reports of investors, both Zimbabweans in the diaspora and foreign nationals, "flooding" into Zimbabwe to open shop following the "Zimbabwe is open for business call by President Mnangagwa."South Africa-based company, Big Time Strategic Group will launch nine companies in the country as part of efforts to heed calls by President Emmerson Mnangagwa for Zimbabweans in the diaspora to invest back home," reported Bulawayo24. Group chief executive and proprietor Mr Justice Maphosa, a Zimbabwean, said the nine companies have already been registered in Zimbabwe."We may say nice things, but on the ground you find that there are issues that need clarification. We will direct them to correct authorities. If you find that a door is closed, a situation which was common in the past dispensation, come to my office and I will open that door," President Mnangagwa told would-be foreign investors in Zurich, Switzerland, last month.Mnangagwa was right, it was Zimbabwe's culture of corruption, bureaucratic meddling and lawlessness that had resulted in closing doors to would-be investors. The President was honest enough, whether he did not want to do so or not is now irrelevant, to admit the closed-door culture is still very much alive in Zimbabwe in the new dispensation.Many of the would-be foreign investors will not going to President Mnangagwa's office so he can open these doors for them; they will continue to shy away from Zimbabwe until there are no closed door. They know to see Mnangagwa they will have to wait their turn, that could take months, or have to "grease" a few connected people; business people hate this with a passion.Mr Justice Maphosa was not phased by the prospect of having to deal with the many closed-doors. He will see President Mnangagwa and have the doors opened for him! It is not just crocodiles that thrive in muddy water, catfish too successfully hunt in these waters using their long whiskers! However, if we are serious about making Zimbabwe attractive to investors, especially the foreign investors who dread the challenge of having to wait and/or grease corrupt hands to do business then we must do more to open the closed doors.For the last 38 years Zimbabwe has been stuck with a corrupt, incompetent and tyrannical Zanu PF dictatorship; the sacred cow which was not be criticized let alone removed from office. This was and still is the root cause of the country's, seemingly, intractable political and economic mess.Much as President Mnangagwa and his coup regime would want the world to believe that Zimbabwe has changed since the November 2017 coup, the sad reality is that it is still under the monolithic dictatorial grip. The coup removed Mugabe and the "criminal elements around him", as the new regime claimed. What the new regime has failed to say is that many of the criminals are still in power and, most important of all, that Zanu PF is still a sacred cow.President Mnangagwa has promised free, fair and credible elections and yet has done nothing to implement the raft of democratic reforms necessary to make that possible."Another South African tycoon, Mr Robert Matana Gumede, was in the country last month to cement a $1,2 billion investment deal in key sectors of the economy which include infrastructure development, energy, health services, tourism and financial services," continued the Bulawayo 24 report."Mr Maphosa said the call for business people to invest in the country was long overdue and thanked the President for inviting business people to invest in the country."It's long overdue, we very appreciate a man, a comrade, a father, grandfather, a Zimbabwean like the President that we have right now. It's something that we have been crying for especially us in the diaspora, this is why we are in the diaspora. We have been crying for a President like him, a President who can appeal to us the youth," quoting Mr Maphosa."Kukanganwa chezuro nehope!" (Some people forget yesterday's troubles with a night's sleep!) as one would say in Shona. Those of us who care to remember, know that for decades many people have lauded praise on former President Robert Mugabe's leadership but would never mention the elephant in the room  the corrupt and tyrannical dictatorship.Millions of Zimbabweans are in the diaspora today NOT because successive Zanu PF regimes had failed "to call for business people to invest in the country". As long as nothing is done to end the corrupt, lawlessness and tyrannical rule in Zimbabwe which has made doing business impossible the call to invest will remain a forlorn one.What has and still remains long overdue is the implementing the democratic reforms designed to dismantle the dictatorship, sacred cow. The failure to hold free, fair and credible elections in this year's elections; which is now a certainty, given that President Mnangagwa has stubbornly refused to implement the democratic reforms; will confirm what we already know  that Zimbabwe is still a lawless nation ruled by thugs.No investor in his/her right mind would ever want to do business in a lawless nation ruled by thugs!Zimbabweans have a simple choice; pile on the pressure on this coup Mnangagwa government to implement the democratic reforms and make sure the coming elections are free fair and verifiable. This will end the country's pariah status and restore the public confidence in the country as a stable and law-abiding nation. All this globe-trotting telling everyone Zimbabwe is ready to do business will not be necessary  the world will know!Or we can all bury our heads in the sand and pretend the world will be fooled into believing the removal of Robert Mugabe as the figure head of the Zanu PF dictatorship was enough to make the country a healthy and functional democracy. The failure to hold free and fair elections will confirm the Zanu PF dictatorship is alive and kicking. The business people will take note, if any had been fooled, and take flight!What has been lacking in Zimbabwe and is therefore long overdue is outstanding Zimbabweans with the good sense to help the country finally make the right political choice. What the country needs desperately, more desperately than misguided business people like Mr Maphosa, is men and women who will stand up to these Zanu PF thugs, look them straight in the eyes, and tell them some home truths."Zimbabwe must implement the democratic reforms and end the Zanu PF dictatorship and the economic meltdown it brought! That is not negotiable!"Enough of all this North Korea style "Crying for comrade, father, grandfather, President who appeal to us!" nonsense!Mr. Altabef is the Chairman of the Board of Im Tirtzu and a Director of the Israel Independence Fund. He can be reached at dougaltabef@gmail.com

Updates throughout the day at http://calevbenyefuneh.blog spot.com. If you enjoy "Love of the Land", please be a subscriber. Just put your email address in the "Subscribe" box on the upper right-hand corner of the page.Twitter updates at LoveoftheLand as well as our Love of the Land page at Facebook which has additional pieces of interest besides that which is posted on the blog. Also check-out This Ongoing War by Frimet and Arnold Roth. An excellent blog, very important work.

.

..Israelnationalnews.com..11 February '18..The American-based New Israel Fund (NIF) has never hidden its mission to save Israel from itself, and its bedrock conviction that the chauvinist particularism of a Jewish State should be replaced with a more "democratic" state of its citizens.Implicit in this posture is a belief that the enlightened folks at the NIF know better than we Israelis what is in our best interest, and even what is the moral high ground in any given situation irrespective of the real world considerations that would apply.While we have seen time and time again the NIF supporting organizations that bolster BDS, accuse Israel of war crimes and slander Israel as an apartheid state, in its current hissy fit over the planned deportation of tens of thousands of illegal African migrants back to third party African nations, the NIF has thrown all decency to the wind.The NIF has chosen to liken the illegal migrants to Holocaust survivors, with the clear and deliberate implication that Israel must be likened to the Nazis.By doing so, and by standing by as its supported organizations use Holocaust-themed analogies such as demeaning the memory of Anne Frank, the NIF has clearly telegraphed that there are no red lines, there are no off-limits depictions, arguments or tactics.Perhaps this complete lack of restraint and over the top contempt is a function of having lost the usual reliable support of the Supreme Court. In a landmark ruling in August 2017, the Israeli Supreme Court, sitting with a five court panel (instead of the usual three) upheld voluntary deportations and specifically stated that there was no proof that the illegal migrants faced danger in being sent to third party African countries such as Rwanda and Uganda.Without popular support, government support, and now the support of the Supreme Court, the NIF has decided to engage in a smoke and mirrors pseudo-populist uprising, in which its supported organizations have gone to the barricades to accuse Israel of not only heartless, cruel and inhumane behavior, but of being complicit in murder.The NIF can therefore add blood libels to its head-on collision through the red lines of decency. Implying that Israel is knowingly sending the illegal migrants to their deaths deserves a place of infamy right alongside the blood of Christian children being used to make matzah. What should we taking away from this well financed, heavy handed and hysterical campaign? For one thing, very likely by design, there is no sense that the incursion by migrants seeking a better economic situation for themselves is a human rights crisis demanding extraordinary resilience by Israel. Faced with a true humanitarian nightmare, Menachem Begin welcomed hundreds of Vietnamese refugees into Israel, and no one made a peep.By contrast, it has been shown that 70% of the entering illegal migrants have not asked for asylum, and that 80% of them are prime working age males. No one begrudges anyone's desire to better themselves economically, but the effort is not a human rights crisis.At the same time there is probably a deliberate disregard by the NIF for the particulars of what the migration means for Israel. Demographically, 38,000 people represents almost one half of a percent of the total population of Israel, and six tenths of a percent of the Jewish population. The equivalent in the US would be about 1.5 million people.But unlike the US, Israel's mission from day one has been to be the one place on earth that can be called the Jewish Homeland and that will be the Jewish State. Even with the most benign disposition, Israel's government has a duty to its current citizens and its yet to be born citizens to maintain the Jewish character of the State.For Israel, this is not a racial matter, as the Ethiopian and Bnei Menasseh aliyot make clear. But there is a racial implication here, and it is the soft racism of the NIF and its acolytes in assuming that a return to Africa by Africans is definitionally dangerous. While the UNHCR is extolling the return of refugees to Rwanda and is encouraging many more to return there, the NIF and groups such as Rabbis for Human Rights, view Africa as a ticket to cruelty, or even death.How contemptuous is this, how demeaning!Fortunately, when it comes to the New Israel Fund, the people of Israel know better. They have seen the NIF in action before, defending and encouraging the de-legitimizers of Israel, and they know that the NIF has anything but the good of Israel at heart.Perhaps with this latest unhinged and scorched earth attempt to dictate Israeli policy, the citizens and government will sensibly conclude that maybe it is the New Israel Fund that should be deported.Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by the editors of HealthDay:

Scientists Create First Lab-Grown Human Eggs

U.K. researchers who created the first laboratory-grown human eggs say their achievement could lead to news ways to preserve the fertility of girls undergoing radiation or chemotherapy for cancer.

However, only 10 percent of the eggs reached full maturity and the eggs were not fertilized, so it's unclear how viable they are, BBC News reported.

The University of Edinburgh research was published in the journal Molecular Human Reproduction.

"It's very exciting to obtain proof of principle that it's possible to reach this stage in human tissue," Professor Evelyn Telfer, one of the researchers, told BBC.

"But that has to be tempered by the whole lot of work needed to improve the culture conditions and test the quality of the oocytes (eggs)," she added.

Even without considering any clinical use, "this is a big breakthrough in improving understanding of human egg development," Telfer said.

-----

Experts Questioning Study on Insulin Quality

Questions are being raised about preliminary findings from a study that says some diabetes patients may be injecting insulin that has partially disintegrated.

In the study published Dec. 21 in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, researchers tested 18 vials of insulin solutions bought at a number of pharmacies in Kansas and Missouri, the Associated Press reported.

On average, the vials contained less than half of what was listed on the label and none of the vials met a minimum standard, according to the study.

"It blew us all away," said lead researcher Alan Carter, a pharmacist and adjunct instructor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Pharmacy. He conducted the research while at the not-for-profit contract research firm MRIGlobal in Kansas City.

But experts say too few vials were tested for the findings to be definitive, and there are concerns about the methods used to test the insulin. If the findings were accurate, diabetes patients would be getting sick, say insulin makers, patient advocates and diabetes experts, the AP reported.

Many of those groups are trying to reassure diabetes patients, and say that patients should continue taking their insulin as prescribed.

"We want to make sure the study, when completed, will be well accepted," Dr. William Cefalu, the American Diabetes Association's chief scientific officer, told the AP.

About 6 million Americans inject synthetic insulin daily, and most patients use a syringe to draw insulin from a vial, like the ones tested in the study, then inject it.

Without enough insulin, diabetes patients can eventually develop blindness, limb amputations, and life-threatening damage to the kidneys and heart.

"The (insulin) concentration and the amount you give, if just a little bit off, can have huge consequences," Aaron Kowalski of JDRF, which funds diabetes research, the AP reported.

-----

Trump Proposes to Lower Medicare Prescription Drug Costs

A proposal to lower prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries will be included in the Trump administration's 2019 budget plan when it's released next week.

Under the proposal, seniors covered by Medicare's "Part D" prescription benefit would be allowed to share in the rebates that drug companies pay to insurers and pharmacy benefit managers, a senior administration official told the Associated Press reported.

The budget would also expand Medicare's "catastrophic" drug benefit in order to eliminate copayments faced by many seniors with very high costs.

Currently, seniors with high drug expenses have to pay 5 percent of the cost of their medications. Some new drugs cost $100,000 a year or more, so copayment costs can rapidly add up, the AP reported.MONDAY, Feb. 12, 2018 (HealthDay News) -- As a particularly nasty flu season rages across the United States, scientists have found a powerful new disinfectant that makes "light" work of the virus.

Researchers say a certain spectrum of ultraviolet light -- called far-UVC -- easily kills airborne flu viruses while posing no risk to people.

It could offer a new, inexpensive way to eliminate airborne flu viruses in indoor public spaces such as hospitals, doctors' offices, schools, airports and aircraft, said the team from Columbia University Medical Center in New York City.

The disinfecting success of initial experiments still need to be confirmed, said lead research David Brenner.

But he believes "the use of overhead, low-level far-UVC light in public locations would be a safe and efficient method for limiting the transmission and spread of airborne-mediated microbial diseases, such as influenza and tuberculosis."

As the researchers explained, broad-spectrum UVC light kills viruses and bacteria, and it is currently used to decontaminate surgical equipment. But this type of light can cause skin cancer and cataracts, so it's not used in public spaces.

However, Brenner and his colleagues wondered if a much narrower spectrum of ultraviolet light, far-UVC, might be a safer option.

In prior studies, they found that far-UVC light killed methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) bacteria -- a common and dangerous "superbug" -- without harming human or mouse skin.

In this new study, they found that far-UVC light also killed airborne H1N1 virus, a common strain of flu virus.

"Far-UVC light has a very limited range and cannot penetrate through the outer dead-cell layer of human skin or the tear layer in the eye, so it's not a human health hazard," said Brenner, who directs Columbia's Center for Radiological Research.

However, "because viruses and bacteria are much smaller than human cells, far-UVC light can reach their DNA and kill them," he said in a university news release.

Lamps with this type of UV light currently cost less than $1,000, Brenner said, but that price would likely fall if the lamps were mass-produced.

"And unlike flu vaccines, far-UVC is likely to be effective against all airborne microbes, even newly emerging strains," he said.

Two flu experts were encouraged by the findings.

"The prospect of reducing the transmission of influenza and other respiratory viruses using far-UV radiation is very exciting," said Dr. Michael Grosso, chief medical officer at Huntington Hospital in Huntington, N.Y.

"Though hand-washing remains critically important, it does not prevent every instance of transmission," Grosso said. "Immunization and antiviral medications are also important, but again, have limitations. It appears that low-dose far-UV light is safe and effective, and has the advantage of inactivating a wide range of disease-causing viruses."

Dr. Len Horovitz, a pulmonary specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, agreed.

He noted that the technology's cost "is not prohibitive, and it is safe. This use can sterilize the air in a public space, reducing the spread of respiratory droplets containing flu viruses and other bacteria and viruses."

The findings were published online Feb. 9 in the journal Scientific Reports.

More information

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on flu.MONDAY, Feb. 12, 2018 (HealthDay News) -- America's highways are decidedly less safe on April 20, a day when stoners publicly celebrate marijuana use.

Why? Researchers report there's an uptick in fatal traffic crashes on that evening, which for decades has been a counterculture holiday revolving around pot use.

Your risk of dying in a fatal wreck increases about 12 percent on that date, comparable to the increase in traffic risk that's been observed on Super Bowl Sunday, according to the analysis of crash data.

Teenage drivers have an even higher risk of dying in a traffic crash on that day, said lead researcher Dr. John Staples.

"Among drivers younger than 21 years of age, the risk of crash involvement was 38 percent higher," said Staples, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of British Columbia in Canada.

The simplest explanation for the increase in fatal crash risk is that people are getting high and then getting behind the wheel, he suggested.

"Cannabis impairs key skills needed for driving. The public should know don't drive high," Staples added. "Impairment with drugs and alcohol increases the risk of a crash."

However, marijuana legalization advocates point out that this study doesn't pin the blame directly on marijuana use.

"The data in this paper does not identify whether any of the drivers involved in motor vehicle accidents on the day in question were either under the influence of marijuana or responsible for the accident," said Paul Armentano. He is deputy director of NORML, a group advocating for the reform of marijuana laws.

Staples works at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver, which is located near one of the major North American sites for 4/20 celebrations.

"On April 20, we often see patient numbers surge, mostly related to drug use," Staples said.

To see whether the holiday had any effect on road safety, Staples and his colleagues gathered 25 years of crash data from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The investigators chose 1992 as their starting point because, a year before, High Times magazine published an article that widely popularized the notion of April 20 as a day to celebrate marijuana use, Staples said.

The researchers compared crashes that occurred between 4:20 p.m. and midnight on April 20 with those that occurred during the same time period one week earlier and one week later, on April 13 and April 27.

Staples agreed that the study relies solely on crash data and cannot determine how many of the drivers were stoned.

It's possible people at the big 4/20 events also are drinking or taking other drugs, and that's what increases fatal crash risk, Staples added.

April 20 events also could be so big that they alter traffic patterns and increase crash risk, he noted. Police also might be so focused on drug enforcement that day that they neglect to enforce traffic laws.

"There are a number of alternate explanations," Staples said. "Unfortunately, we don't have a good way of knowing for sure which of those are contributing."

The study found three states where crash risk increased the most on 4/20 -- Georgia, New York and Texas. Armentano pointed out that none of the three has legalized recreational marijuana use.

"Nor are they jurisdictions known for having high-profile, well-attended marijuana-related events on April 20," Armentano said.

J.T. Griffin, chief government affairs officer for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, agreed that the study is flawed, but added that it raises larger questions worth pursuing.

"We still don't have good definitions of marijuana impairment. We still don't have good data on how many people really are using drugs and driving," Griffin said. "And it's definitely worth looking into the 4/20 phenomenon a little more deeply to figure out what it means in terms of traffic deaths."

The study was published online Feb. 12 in JAMA Internal Medicine.

More information

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more about marijuana use and driving.Maharashtra: Fishermen threaten to strike over use of dragnets despite ban

February 12,2018 | Source: DNA

You might want to stock up on the fish, for fishermen in the city, disgruntled with the government's failure to enforce the ban on purse seine nets, are planning to strike work. Over 1,000 fishermen gathered at Sassoon Dock on Friday and raised a protest against some "rogue" fishermen violating the ban and using the vast dragnets, some lined with LED lights to attract fish. A purse seine is a large wall of netting deployed around an entire area or school of fish. Maharashtra Machhimar Kruti Samiti, a fishermen's body which organised the demonstration, urged the community to take up the issue with local representatives. Community leader Damodar Tandel, from Badhwar Park, said trawling off the coasts in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad was wearing down small fishermen."We will go on strike if our demands are not met.



The government is failing to implement the ban. This is eating into the business of small-time fishermen. It is also affecting the marine ecology. We don't see the ban being implemented despite assurances from ministers," said Tandel. In February 2016, the state government had framed guidelines to promote traditional fishing practices and banned the use of such nets within 12 nautical miles of the shore to preserve fish populations. MLC Rahul Narvekar, who was present at the meet, said, "The government should take the strictest action against fishermen using LED purse seines. The agitation will continue if the state does not take necessary steps to giverelief to those relying on traditional fishing accessories."

 2018 Diligent Media Corporation Ltd.IT Infrastructure

Air Force seeks support in standardizing IT tools

The Air Force released a draft solicitation for assisted support as its CIO standardizes IT tools and processes across the financial management enterprise.

The Air Force is seeking support for its financial management IT professionals to ensure they meet established policies and procedures regarding IT lifecycle management industry best practices, such as data quality standards, knowledge management, and IT portfolio management.

The Air Forces financial management CIO created the Information Technology Lifecycle Management Library (ITLML) for the design and development of information systems and guiding financial management policies.

The solicitation is a total small business set-aside.

Task orders include developing:

A project management plan to support the financial management CIO

A portfolio transformation strategy

A portfolio assessment reports

A portfolio business process re-engineering strategy

In addition, projects would include managing and maintaining the ITLML project plan and defining and delivering messaging materials for support.

The Air Force released the draft proposal Feb. 8. Responses are due by Feb. 12.Mobile

Army looks at redefining its classified networks

The Army is looking at redefining its classified networks to better accommodate mobile devices on the battlefield, according to an Army deputy chief of staff.

Soldiers loved using their mobile devices -- but not the Army's Nett Warrior classified situational awareness system, Lt. Gen. John Murray, Army deputy chief of staff, G-8, said during the Feb. 7 Senate Armed Services Committee's Airland Subcommittee hearing on Army modernization.

"One of the things we're looking at is how far down do classified networks need to go," Murray said. "The secure but unclassified network opens up all kinds of possibilities," he said. "The key piece of Nett Warrior is a mobile phone you can buy in the kiosk on the corner."

But without the right network infrastructure, that key piece of technology is rendered useless on the battlefield. That's the main reason why the Army has halted some of its modernization efforts on other tactical network communication systems, such as Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (WIN-T).

The Army has been heavily criticized for asking for more funds to maintain its current systems while exploring other experimental options.

Repairs beyond what's needed to maintain WIN-T have been halted. Army CIO Lt. Gen. Bruce Crawford explained the move in a House hearing last September.

But experimental and prototyped capabilities are expected to be deployed at battalion level and below to "get out an interim capability while we wait for that next generation network," according to the testimony of Lt. Gen. Paul Ostrowski, the Army Acquisition Corps' director and principal military deputy to the Army's assistant secretary for acquisition, logistics and technology.

"We know what we have to do in terms of a network of the future. We have to find the transport mechanism -- the transport layer first ... we have to modernize that piece," Ostrowski said. "In the meantime, between that network of the future and now we have to continue to be able to fight tonight so that means fixing what we have, which is our current strategy, and then buying incremental capabilities."

Ostrowski said that the ultimate goal was to buy mobile network capabilities as a service.

As fellow panelist Lt. Gen. Joseph Anderson, Army deputy chief of staff, G-3/5/7 put it: "The stuff is out there, and we're trying to reinvent the wheel.... Just like you do your AT&T bill, do it for our soldiers' personal devices."Ukrainian apple exports to Europe soar by nine times since July 1

Total exports of Ukrainian apples over the period under review grew by 2.3 times.

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterUkraine-China trade may hit $10 bln  Kubiv

China is said to be ready to invest US$7 billion in Ukrainian projects.

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterNaftogaz pays UAH 6.6 bln in taxes

Receipts from the group accounted for about 12% of the state budgets total revenue in January 2018.

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterEnergy expert on TurkStream: Putin's goal to deprive Ukraine of transit state status

The design capacity of the first thread of the bypass pipeline is 15.75 billion cubic meters, which is slightly lower than the volume of Ukrainian transit to Turkey that stands at 16.6 bcm.

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterUkroboronprom CEO steps down

Roman Romanov hopes that the president will support his decision.

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterToday President Trump released his plan to stimulate $1.5 trillion in infrastructure spending to improve the countrys out-of-date structures. Unfortunately, his new plan misses an opportunity to reduce the cost of infrastructure by removing President Obamas executive order that requires the use of Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) for federal construction projects. Since PLAs discriminate against non-union labor, they can be expensive, anti-competitive, and inefficient, and should not be mandated.

A PLA is a collective bargaining agreement approved prior to a specific construction project between one or more labor organizations and the hiring employer. The purpose of a PLA is to have the terms and conditions of employment established to reduce on-site friction that could lead to labor disputes.

During President George W. Bushs time in office, he signed two executive orders (13202 and 13208) that prohibited the federal government or an agency working with federal assistance to require or prohibit construction contractors from signing a union agreement for federal or federally assisted construction projects. In 2009, President Obama repealed the executive orders and instead put in place Executive Order 13502 that encouraged federal agencies to mandate PLAs on large-scale construction projects exceeding $25 million.

Those in favor of PLAs argue that they provide more stability and structure to construction project, and that they increase project efficiency because they decrease the likelihood of labor disputes that would delay the project. Although proponents of PLAs argued that President Bushs executive orders were contrary to the National Labor Relations Act, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of President Bushs executive orders in Building and Construction Trades Department, AFL-CIO et al., v. Joe M. Allbaugh, Director, Federal Emergency Management Agency, et al.

Research does not show more labor-related problems during President Bushs terms. In contrast, recent infrastructure projects in states illustrate how PLAs have reduced competition and increased construction costs. Additionally, projects have not been more efficient with PLAs and still run into many delays.

Although not mandated by the executive order to utilize PLAs, states have increased their use of the bargaining agreements on state-funded and federally-assisted projects, wasting more taxpayer dollars. Unfortunately, most of these projects have exceeded their timelines, their budgets, and have had ample other problems. For example, the Highway 99 tunnel in Seattle has had many problems including delays, a poor safety record and employees working on site while under the influence of alcohol.

Moreover, PLAs have decreased the competition in the marketplace for construction proposals. Lower supply results in higher prices. Some states are denying less expensive non-PLA construction proposals in favor of more expensive PLA bids. In New York, the Lancaster Development company submitted a PLA-free project bid to the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) for a federally-assisted contract to upgrade a highway interchange, but the NYSDOT later placed a PLA requirement on the contract. Although Lancaster Developments bid was the lowest by $4.5 million, it was a nonunion, merit-shop firm which agreed not to sign a PLA. As a result, their bid was not accepted by the NYSDOT, which decided to forego the savings in exchange for working with a PLA company.

As of February 2017, the U.S. Department of Transportation had approved 381 Federal Highway Administration PLAs totaling $8.7 billion. Had these projects been non-PLA contracts, it is possible that the government would have saved a substantial amount of taxpayer dollars. Some states have already restricted PLAs. However, rolling back President Obamas executive order on PLAs will make it easier and less costly to make progress on infrastructure development and deliver economic benefits across the nation.

Emily Top is a research associate at Economics21.

Interested in real economic insights? Want to stay ahead of the competition? Each weekday morning, E21 delivers a short email that includes E21 exclusive commentaries and the latest market news and updates from Washington. Sign up for the E21 Morning Ebrief.



Bratislava, on 23 March, the Government & Business Leaders Summit (GBLS) was organized by Branislav Skripek. He was giving opening speech and some inputs during the summit. Libor Michalek (CZ) and Tom Hess (USA) also hosted the summit. The aim of the event was to connect people active in politics and business on the basis of biblical and practical principles for the successful functioning of the whole country.

More than 150 people from around the world participated in the event. The program was divided into 5 parts. The first part was a workshop with Lance Wallnau - Vision for the Nation. Ramses Girgis had a workshop on - Business and politics as a partnership with God. Followed by Lance Wallnau - Being an example and Synergy as a decision. The final part was a panel discussion with influential people from politics and business (Slovakia+Czech republic). There was also business breakfast with Wouter Droppers taking place as a forum for sharing principles and ideas in business.

The Government and Business Leaders Summit 2018 was the summit of important meetings, inspirational ideas and examples. It has helped to begin to describe a new, fair concept of business interconnection, standing on the values of honesty and transparency.The United States is deeply troubled that a Vietnamese court has convicted and sentenced peaceful labor and environmental activist Hoang Duc Binh and Nguyen Nam Phong to fourteen years and two years in prison, respectively.Both men were charged under the criminal code for taking part in protests and advocacy in relation to the massive marine disaster caused by the Taiwanese steel company Formosa along the central coast of Vietnam in April 2016.

Hoang Duc Binh has repeatedly voiced support for Vietnamese political prisoners and detainees. He has also participated in several of the Formosa protests and helped organize groups advocating compensation for fishermen who lost their livelihoods due to the toxic spill.

Under article 258 of the penal code, Hoang Duc Binh was charged with abusing freedom and democracy to infringe upon the interests of the State, the legitimate interest and rights of organization and citizen.

Human Rights Watch Asia director Brad Adams said, The sad irony here is that Vietnam is charging a human rights defender with abusing freedom, democracy, and rights, when the truth is that the people of Vietnam have no freedom, democracy, or rights."

Mr. Binh and Mr. Phongs convictions are the sixth such verdicts in recent days of individuals peacefully expressing their views. They are among many individuals convicted this past year for exercising basic rights, including Nguyen Ngoc Nhu Quynh, also known as Mother Mushroom," and Tran Thi Nga. "The trend of increased arrests, convictions, and harsh sentences of peaceful activists since early 2016 is very concerning," said State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert.

"All people," she stressed, "have the right to the fundamental freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly."

The United States calls on Vietnam to release all prisoners of conscience immediately, and to allow all individuals in Vietnam to express their views freely and assemble peacefully without fear of retribution.

Spokesperson Nauert also urged "the Vietnamese government to ensure its actions and laws, including the Penal Code, are consistent with the human rights provisions of Vietnams constitution and its international obligations and commitments."As economic and political conditions continue to deteriorate in Venezuela, President Nicolas Maduro has turned his sights on another target: national Catholic leaders who have raised their voices against the misery the corrupt Maduro government has visited on the Venezuelan people.

Maduro has called for an investigation into clergymen who have been critical of the government, claiming they may be guilty of a crime under a law passed in November by the illegitimate National Constituent Assembly, made up almost exclusively of supporters of President Maduro.

Among other measures, the so-called Constitutional Law against hatred, for peaceful coexistence and tolerance, punishes purveyors of messages of purported hate in broadcast and social media with penalties of up to 20 years in prison; and members of political organizations who spread supposed hate must be expelled.

Human Rights Watch described the law as a clear threat to freedom of expression. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights said it could generate a strong intimidation effect incompatible with a democratic society.

Using this law as a weapon against Venezuelas religious leaders is Maduros latest attempt to silence any opposition to his regime.

Maduro reportedly referred to Catholic clerics, whom local media said included Bishops Victor Hugo Basabe of San Felipe and Antonio Lopez Castillo of Barquisimeto, as devils in cassocks. He also said the Catholic Church in Venezuela was full of evil, poison, hatred, perversion and slander.

In 2017, Venezuelan bishops criticized the dismantling of constitutional order in the country, and they recently condemned the hastily announced elections Maduro insists must take place in April.

U.S. Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley denounced Maduros call for a criminal investigation of the two Catholic bishops who spoke out against hunger and corruption under the so-call anti-hate law.

In a statement, she noted that Maduros reign of violence, repression, corruption and bankruptcy continues to punish the Venezuelan people. By targeting religious leaders  who promote peace and provide hope for believers  the regime continues to show that it cares only for preserving its own power and cares nothing about the basic human rights and welfare of its citizens. We continue, Ambassador Haley said, to stand strongly with the Venezuelan people in their battle to restore their democracy in the face of a brutal dictator.Irans judiciary is fully responsible for the death of an Iranian-Canadian citizen who died while in police custody, the New York based NGO Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) has said in a statement.

University professor and environmental activist Kavous Seyed-Emami was arrested January 24 along with several other activists. Seventeen days later, Emamis son, Ramin, tweeted the news of his fathers death and that the family had been told it was a suicide.

The news of my fathers passing is impossible to fathom, Ramin Seyed-Emami, an Iranian musician also known as King Raam, tweeted February 10. I still cant believe this.

Emami, who was 63 years old, is the third person to have allegedly committed suicide while in police custody in the Islamic Republic in the last two months

The CHRI has called for an immediate UN-led investigation into the three deaths, two of which occurred in Tehrans notorious Evin Prison, and one which happened at a police station in the city of Arak.

The news of Emamis death coincided with an announcement by Tehran Prosecutor-General Abbas Jafari Dolatabadi about the detention of a number of environmental activists on charges of espionage in the area of environment.

Those arrested were collecting classified strategic information under the cover of scientific environmental projects, Dolatabadi said.

Dolatabadi confirmed Emamis death February 11, alleging He killed himself after his own and others confessions.

CHRI Executive Director Hadi Ghaemi described the rising number of suspicious deaths in Irans prisons as an unfolding tragedy.

This stems from the widespread impunity of judicial and security officials who are getting away with murder, time after time, he said. The interrogators and the judicial authorities are directly responsible for prisoners lives. In addition to independent investigations and an autopsy to determine the cause of death, the perpetrators must be held accountable in a transparent process.

CHRIs statement also demanded Iranian authorities stop harassing Emamis family, which they say is been pressured by authorities to hold a burial immediately without an independent autopsy and medical investigation of the cause of death.

The NGO also noted in its statement that Emami is the second dual Iranian-Canadian citizen to die behind bars in Iran.

In July 2003, photographer Zahra (aka Ziba) Kazemi also died under suspicious circumstances while being interrogated in Evin Prison. Her case remains unsolved despite calls for justice by lawyers and Canadian officials.

According to CHRI there are currently at least eleven Iranians with dual citizenship or permanent residence permits in foreign countries held in prisons in Iran.

23-year old Sina Ghanbari and 22-year Vahid Haydari are the other two men who allegedly committed suicide while in police custody in the last two months. Both were arrested during widespread anti-establishment protests that swept across the country in late December and early January.

Judiciary officials have claimed they have CCTV footage documenting Ghanbari and Heydaris suicides, but they have not made the footage public.

Alireza Rahimi , an MP who visited Evin Prison in Tehran, wrote on his Telegram channel, There is no footage of Ghanbaris suicide. What they showed us at Evin, was some images of Evins restrooms. We did not see any footage of anyone committing suicide.Those who publicly criticize Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei betray the Islamic Revolution and its founder, Ayatollah Khomeini, says Chief Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Qods Force Major General Qassem Soleimani.

Speaking at a ceremony commemorating the 39th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in the city of Kerman February 11, Soleimani lambasted those who enjoy the establishments feast, but pose as opposition and write public letters criticizing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

It is saddening that some people have labelled themselves as followers of [Islamic Revolution leader Khomeinis] line, but instead of writing open letters criticizing the enemy and its global arrogance, they write letters criticizing the guardian of Islamic jurisprudence [Khamenei] who is standing on the frontline, Soleimani said, according to IRGC-run news agency Tasnim.

Speaking in his hometown, Soleimani did not mention any names in his address, but it was clearly a response to an open letter written two weeks earlier by two-time former Speaker of the Parliament Mehdi Karroubi. In the letter, Karroubi wrote that Supreme Leader Khamenei is responsible for Irans current economic, social, political and cultural shortcomings.

Karroubi, 81, was one of the leaders of the protest movement that brought millions of Iranians to the streets following the disputed presidential election that re-installed ultraconservative President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for a second term in 2009. Karroubi has been under house arrest since February 2011 along with former Iranian Prime Minister Mir Hossein Mousavi and his wife Zahra Rahnavard.



In the letter, Karroubi also harshly criticizes Khamenei for authorizing the political and economic activities of the IRGC and Baseej militia, which he says are harmful to the country.

The actions of some of IRGC commanders have brought about political instability and created a despotism that has deprived the nation of its political rights and has put an end to the idea of the regime being a republic, Karroubi wrote.

Responding to to Karroubis letter in an interview with the Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI), another leader of the Islamic Revolution, Mojahedin Abolfazl Ghadyani, branded Khamenei a dictator and called upon President Rouhani and his reformist allies to end their policy of compromise with the Supreme Leader.

A reformist and former political prisoner, Ghadyani had earlier told the CHRI that the Supreme Leaders criticism of President Hassan Rouhani is "rooted in the fact that the leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran does not recognize the people's vote.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

Trend:

The Azerbaijan Banking Association in cooperation with EY organized a seminar on the practical aspects of impairment calculations following the adoption of the new IFRS 9 accounting standard by banks. The event was held on Wednesday 7 February at Unibank, and most Azerbaijan banks participated. The presentation was delivered by Radek Lastovicka, Senior Manager at EY Czech Republic. Common practices were presented on a variety of IFRS 9 impairment topics and warnings were made on certain bad practices.

Yokub Sharafitdinov, Senior Manager from EY Azerbaijan, shared: EY has all the necessary resources and knowledge to become leading advisor in IFRS 9 related services in our market. We are already running pilot projects for some banks, bringing in subject-matter EY experts from other EY offices and transferring their know-how to our team.

Radek Lastovicka added: We have highlighted practical solutions adopted by banks in Eastern Europe, Turkey and the Middle East of a similar size to those in Azerbaijan. Particular attention was given to approaches towards the definition of Significant Increase in Credit Risk (SICR), which has a major impact on resulting figures. On the markets that I mentioned, banks have invested a lot of time and effort to retrospectively create structured data on risk assessment at origination of their existing assets, which are then used for the definition of SICR. In addition, we raised the topic of Purchased or Originated Credit Impaired assets (POCI), as they might complicate IFRS 9 adoption for many Azerbaijan banks. Special accounting treatment is designed by the Standard for these assets, which primarily emerge from the restructuring of problem loans.

The presentation was followed by a discussion on macroeconomic forecasts for Azerbaijan and their reflection in the future IFRS 9 impairment calculation of the banks.

About EY

EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and economies around the world. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In doing so, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients, and for our communities.

EY works together with companies across the CIS and assists them in realizing their business goals. 5,000 professionals work at 20 CIS offices (in Baku, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Kazan, Krasnodar, Rostov-on-Don, Togliatti, Vladivostok, Almaty, Astana, Bishkek, Kyiv, Tashkent, Tbilisi, Minsk, and other locations).

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

EY in Azerbaijan

EY made a major commitment to the development of Azerbaijan and the region by opening the office in Baku 23 years ago. Today, in addition to being the leading audit and consulting firm in Azerbaijan, we are the leading professional services firm in the region. As a result of our experience and competence, we have been able to assist both domestic and international companies as well as state-owned entities to develop and manage the challenges of the international economy.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

Trend:

Another provocation by Armenia attempted in the direction of Azerbaijans Gazakh district, has been prevented, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said in a message Feb. 12.

The provocation aimed at violating the Azerbaijani-Armenian state border, said the message.

On Feb. 11 morning, taking advantage of the foggy weather, Armenian servicemen attempted to cross the Azerbaijani army positions, the message noted. The UAZ vehicle with the Armenian Armed Forces reconnaissance and sabotage group inside, moving in the direction of Azerbaijani positions, was timely detected.

As a result of Azerbaijans preventive actions, the attempt of the Armenian reconnaissance and sabotage group to move ahead was prevented, said the message. The group abandoned the vehicle and hurried back to its positions. The sabotage group also opened fire at the vehicle, destroying it, while retreating back.

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, Feb.12

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict can be solved only through negotiations, Prime Minister of Bulgaria Boyko Borissov said in an interview with Trend.

The conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh has no military solution and may only be resolved through a political settlement, he noted.

Bulgarias position of principle is that the conflict can be solved only through negotiations and the mediation of the OSCE Minsk Group and its co-chairs, with the assistance of the European Union, as well as through active dialogue between the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan, added Borissov.

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.

===

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_ZeynDetails added (first version posted on 17:59)

Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Leman Zeynalova - Trend:

The attempted provocation by the Armenian Armed Forces on the Azerbaijan-Armenia state border on Feb. 11 testifies again to Armenia's policy to impede the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, spokesman for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, Hikmat Hajiyev told Trend Feb. 12.

"Practice shows that the Armenian side resorts to provocations if during the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs' visits to the region specific issues related to settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict are discussed," he said.

We once again witnessed that in June-July 2017, after the visit of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs to the region, the Armenian side committed military and political provocations, Hajiyev said. As a result of the provocations on July 4 in Alkhanli village of Azerbaijans Fizuli district, two-year-old girl Zahra Guliyeva was killed together with her grandmother.

"Armenia aims to hamper the negotiation process in every possible way, he said. This once again shows that the presence of the Armenian Armed Forces in the occupied Azerbaijani territories remains a serious threat to regional security and peace."

To achieve progress in the political settlement of the conflict, it is necessary to ensure the withdrawal of Armenian troops from the occupied Azerbaijani lands and change the current status quo," Hajiyev said.

Azerbaijan prevented a provocation by Armenia near the Gazakh district on Feb. 11. The provocation aimed to violate the Azerbaijan-Armenia state border.

On Feb. 11 morning, taking advantage of the foggy weather, Armenian servicemen attempted to cross the Azerbaijani army positions. A UAZ vehicle with the Armenian Armed Forces reconnaissance and sabotage group inside, moving in the direction of Azerbaijani positions, was timely detected. As a result of Azerbaijans preventive actions, the attempt of the Armenian reconnaissance and sabotage group to move ahead was prevented. The group abandoned the vehicle and hurried back to its positions. The sabotage group also opened fire at the vehicle, destroying it, while retreating.

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, Feb. 12

Trend:

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolence to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the recent plane crash near Moscow.

I was deeply shocked by the news of a plane crash near Moscow, which resulted in numerous casualties, Ilham Aliyev said in his letter. On behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on my own behalf, I express my sincere condolences to you, the families and friends of the deceased, and to all the people of Russia.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

Trend:

Head of the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration has issued an order approving the plan of events on the occasion of the 26th anniversary of the Khojaly genocide.

The plan envisages laying wreaths at the Khojaly memorials in Khatai district in Baku, in Goranboy district and Agjakand village, holding press conferences, commemorative ceremonies at embassies, consulates and diaspora organizations of Azerbaijan in foreign countries, ensuring media coverage of these events both within the country and abroad.

Under the plan, religious confessions and organizations operating in the country will hold commemorative ceremonies for victims of the Khojaly genocide.

Meetings of heads of Azerbaijani state agencies, MPs with families of martyrs will be organized in cities and districts where Khojaly residents temporarily stay (Baku, Sumgait, Ganja, Mingachevir, Sheki, Goranboy, Barda, Sabirabad, Goychay, Zagatala, Oguz, Balakan).

On February 26, first lessons at schools will be dedicated to the Khojaly tragedy and a minute of silence will be held at 17:00 (GMT+4) throughout the country to commemorate the victims of the Khojaly genocide.

On Feb. 25-26, 1992, the Armenian armed forces, together with the 366th infantry regiment of Soviet troops, stationed in Khankendi, committed an act of genocide against the population of the Azerbaijani town of Khojaly.

As many as 613 people, including 63 children, 106 women and 70 old people were killed in the massacre. Eight families were totally exterminated, 130 children lost one parent and 25 children lost both. Some 1,275 innocent residents were taken hostage, while the fate of 150 people still remains unknown.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Elchin Mehdiyev  Trend:

The decision made at the sixth congress of the New Azerbaijan Party on the nomination of party chairman, the countrys President Ilham Aliyev for the upcoming presidential election, reflects the peoples position, Azerbaijani MP Javid Osmanov told Trend Feb. 12.

Osmanov added that this decision is widely discussed and appreciated in the society.

"Uniting more than 700,000 people in its ranks, the party won the status of the national party, as the ideas of the party, created by the countrys national leader Heydar Aliyev, serves people and the state," he said. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the party became even stronger. The New Azerbaijan Party became the biggest political force in the region."

Osmanov stressed that during the years of presidency, President Aliyev gained the trust of people.

"Over the past 15 years Azerbaijans socio-economic indicators have greatly grown and the countrys position on the international arena has strengthened as the result of the presidents policy, he said. These results were achieved thanks to the wise policy of President Aliyev.

The 6th congress of the New Azerbaijan Party was held in the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku Feb. 8. The decision was made during the congress to nominate chairman of the party Ilham Aliyev as a presidential candidate. The decision was unanimously adopted.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

Trend:

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov met with the delegation headed by Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States within the Holy See's Secretariat of State, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry told Trend.

The sides expressed their satisfaction with the development of relations between Azerbaijan and the Holy See.

The official visits of Azerbaijans national leader Heydar Aliyev on September 24-27, 1997 and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on March 6, 2017 to Vatican, as well as the historical visits of Pope John Paul II on May 22, 2002 and Pope Francis on October 2, 2016 to Baku ushered in a new page in Azerbaijan-Holy See relations.

Mammadyarov noted that Azerbaijan has historically been a place where the representatives of different cultures and religions co-exist peacefully.

The minister reiterated that on the basis of national traditions of tolerance Azerbaijan promotes the ideas of peaceful co-existence, mutual respect and multiculturalism in the world. In this regard, the importance of International Humanitarian Forum and Intercultural Dialogue Forum was underlined.

Noting his satisfaction with being in Azerbaijan P.R.Galager noted his meeting with Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan adding that very fruitful discussions took place at the meeting.

Expressing his gratitude for the support and care to the Catholic community in Azerbaijan the Archbishop highly appreciated the tolerance and respect to other religious communities in Azerbaijan.

Mammadyarov said that the year of 2017 had been declared Islamic Solidarity year in Azerbaijan. Adding that international conference on 2017 - Islamic Solidarity Year: Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue was jointly organized by the Caucasian Muslims Office and the State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations and the representative of the Holy See took part at the above-mentioned conference.

Noting the close cooperation between the Pontifical Council for Culture of the Holy See and Heydar Aliyev Foundation the sides underlined the invaluable role of Azerbaijan's First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva in the further development of cooperation to this end. The restoration of several historical monuments especially the catacombs in Vatican with the direct support of Heydar Aliyev Foundation had been highly appreciated.



Mentioning several precious documents in the Holy Sees archives on middle ages history of Azerbaijan, Mammadyarov thanked the Holy See for the support in finding these documents and underlined the importance of continuation of cooperation in this sphere.

At the meeting Mammadyarov briefed his counterpart about the negotiation process on the resolution of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, just and fair position of Azerbaijan, Armenias plundering and destruction policy of the cultural heritage of Azerbaijani people in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan.

Touching on the issue of illegal settlement of ethnic Armenian refugees from Syria in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan by Armenia, Mammadyarov noted that Armenia's deliberate efforts to pursue the settlement policy and change the demographic structure of occupied territories seriously violate the international humanitarian law.

The minister added that as a result of Armenia's aggression more than one million Azerbaijanis were forcefully subjected to ethnic cleansing by Armenia.



The interlocutors expressed their mutual concern about the raise of racism, xenophobia, ethnic and religious hatred in the world.



At the meeting the sides also exchanged their views on the issues of developing the relations between Azerbaijan and the Holy See and mutual exchange of high level visits.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

Trend:

First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva has met with a delegation led by Secretary for Relations with States of the Holy See Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.

First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva expressed her confidence that the Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher's visit will give an impetus to the development of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and the Holy See.

First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva noted that Azerbaijan attaches great importance to the relations between the two countries. She pointed to the recent high-level meetings, and visits, saying the visits of Pope John Paul II in 2002 and Pope Francis in 2016 to Azerbaijan opened a new page in the Azerbaijan-Holy See relations.

Saying representatives of different religions, cultures and nations have lived in peace and mutual respect for centuries in Azerbaijan, First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva noted that the Azerbaijani people highly appreciate the atmosphere of tolerance and peace.

She described this as both the policy of the Azerbaijani government and the lifestyle of the Azerbaijani society.

First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva hailed the current relations between the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Vatican, and underlined the importance of the jointly realized large-scale projects.

First Vice-President recalled the events that were held on the occasion of the restoration of Azerbaijan's state independence and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2011- 2012 in the Vatican with the support of Paul Richard Gallagher, as well as the launch of the exhibition at one of the Vatican's museums, featuring Azerbaijan's history and traditions.

She noted that Azerbaijan is proud to be the first country to organize the exhibition at the Vatican museum. First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva also highlighted Azerbaijan's contributions to the preservation of famous Christian monuments, including the restoration of catacombs in the Vatican with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.

First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva noted that the collaboration between Azerbaijan and the Holy See has been elevated to the level of friendship, and expressed her confidence that the friendly relations will continue in the years ahead.

Secretary for Relations with States of the Holy See Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher said he is deeply impressed with his three-day visit to Azerbaijan, praising the hospitality of the Azerbaijani people.

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher extended the greetings of Pope Francis and Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin to First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

Trend:

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed an order Feb. 12 approving the State Program for the Development of Tea Industry for 2018-2027.

According to the order, the state program is approved to develop tea growing, increase the export potential in this industry, and ensure the employment of rural population.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

Trend:

The members of the UNEC Public Supervisory Board  the Merited scientist, professor Shahlar Askerov, the head of the XXI Century Educational Center Public Association Etibar Aliyev, the chairman of the Parliamentary Journalists Union, the general director of the Media Group Modern Elshad Eyvazl, the head of the Citizens Lbour Rights League Sahib Mammadov and the chairman of the Public Association Independent Teachers Malahat Murshudlu participated in the trainings delivered by the world scientists at the winter school held to raise the academic and pedagogical potential of the UNEC academic and teaching staff.

The professor Shahlar Askerov spoke on the topic Philosophy of knowledge assessment and Econophysics. The professor explained the essence of the knowledge assessment in his report and emphasized that, the econophysics in European countries was taught as the subject. The book of Sh. Askerov Improving humanity was presented to the teachers actively particiaped in the discussion.

The merited scientist highly appreciated the organization of winter school: The Winter schoool has benefited from different point of views. The influential scientists from around the world have made the presentations on the interesting topics. The trainings attended by more than hundred UNEC teachers are the factors that directly contribute to improving the quality of education and professional training. As the expert, I welcome this process.

Jill Sperandio, the professor at the Leigh University in the United States, participating as the trainer at the Winter School, noted that the exchange of views with the academic-teaching staff of UNEC was very effective, and edded that she was very pleased to be acquianted with the members of the UNEC Public Supervisory Board, as well: Particularly, I would like to emphasize that my acquiantance with Shahlar Askerov, whose scientific research work was involved in the work of the organisation NASA of America was unexpected for me. Azerbaijan has very vauable scientists!

Jennifer Veillon, the teacher at the French University of Lyon, also shared her impressions. This one-week training spent in Azerbaijan, were the most precious days of my teaching experience, J.Veillon said and added that she had had the great experience with the awesome people at the winter school. She noted that she was eagely awaiting the day when she would be able to meet with this staff again and would be pleased to continue coopertaing with UNEC.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

Trend:

State Migration Service of Azerbaijan arrested seven citizens of Nepal, three citizens of India and one citizen of Sri Lanka as part of activity against illegal migration.

Investigations determined that an individual named Dipak working in India collaborated with Ukrainian citizen Vladislav Kobil and organized the transfer of foreigners into Azerbaijan.

Three people from India and one from Sri Lanka, willing to visit Europe, addressed to Dipak, who transferred them to Azerbaijan.

Dipak contacted Vladislav Kobil to acquire temporary residency permit for the foreigners and promised to transfer them to Europe, fraudulently appropriating large sum of money. Dipak sent seven Nepali citizens to Azerbaijan and promised to find them jobs.

Organized measures prevented the illegal smuggling of foreigners into Azerbaijan and an attempt to establish an illegal migration channel.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Anvar Mammadov  Trend:

Azerbaijan Deposit Insurance Fund (ADIF) has started payment of compensations to the last remaining uninsured depositors of Azerbaijans Ganjabank OJSC, the ADIF said in a message Feb. 12.

According to the message, non-cash payments are carried out.

The compensations are paid in the administrative building of the liquidated Ganjabank at the following address: 260 Ataturk Avenue, Ganja city.

The total number of uninsured individuals and legal entities in Ganjabank exceeds 500 people, ADIF ex-head Azad Javadov told Trend earlier.

The Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) revoked Ganjabanks license Jan. 22, 2016.

This decision was made because the total capital of the bank didn't correspond to the CBA's minimum requirement of 50 million manats. The bank also couldn't fulfill its obligations to creditors.

Ganjabank was declared bankrupt upon the decision of the Baku Administrative Economic Court #1 dated Feb. 15, 2016. ADIF was appointed the liquidator of the bank.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb.12

By Nigar Guliyeva - Trend:

Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan since March 2018 will launch a passenger train on the route "Tashkent-Rybachye (Balykchy)-Tashkent", Kyrgyz Railways reported.

The passenger train No. 455/456 of Uzbek Railways will run once a week. It consists of 7 sleeping cars, three reserved cars and a restaurant car.

The train will depart from Tashkent (Uzbekistan) on March 22, 2018 and arrive in Rybachye (Balykchy) on March 23. The return train will leave Balykchy on March 24 and arrive in Tashkent on March 25.

The train will depart from Tashkent on Thursdays and arrive in Balykchy on Fridays. The return train will depart on Saturdays and arrive in the capital of Uzbekistan on Sundays.

After the April 2010 revolution in Kyrgyzstan, trains from Tashkent stopped traveling to Issyk-Kul.

In summer 2015-2016, the authorities of both countries agreed on the resumption of a rail line. However, in 2017 the train stopped traveling again, because the governments of the two countries did not reach the necessary agreements.

Earlier it was reported that Kyrgyzstan will transfer to Uzbekistan for temporary use land plots in the Issyk-Kul region. The decision concerns boarding houses "Bosteri", "Altyn-Zhai", "Enesay" and "Buston".Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Anvar Mammadov - Trend:

The Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) expects a current account surplus of the countrys balance of payments for 2017 at five percent of GDP, Elman Rustamov, chairman of the CBA, said at a press conference in Baku on Feb. 12.

He said that such positive trend will continue in 2018. The head of the CBA noted that the macroeconomic reforms held since late 2014 aimed at diversifying the economy, as well as increase in oil prices, have ensured improvement of Azerbaijans balance of payments.

Last year, surplus of the foreign trade balance amounted to $5 billion, which is 10 times more than in 2016, said Rustamov. Exports grew 52 percent and non-oil exports grew 23 percent. Improvement is also observed in the balances of primary and secondary revenues, as well as in the balance of services. The deficit of the balance of services has significantly decreased, and the surplus has been achieved regarding tourism services.

He also added that as a result of improving Azerbaijans balance of payments, strategic foreign exchange reserves grew 11 percent in 2017.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Anvar Mammadov  Trend:

Tea harvesting is planned to be increased by 10.96 times in Azerbaijan by 2027, according to the State Program for the Development of Tea Industry for 2018-2027, approved by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev Feb. 12.

According to the state program, for the first time, tea was planted in Azerbaijan in the late 19th century, its scientific cultivation began in 1929.

By the end of the 1980s, the area of tea plantations in the country reached 13,400 hectares and tea production  34,500 tons. The population's need for tea was ensured by 65-70 percent through domestic production. The studies carried out in those years showed that an area of about 21,000 hectares is suitable for planting tea in Azerbaijan.

According to the state program, since the 1990s tea production in Azerbaijan began to gradually decline and by 2010, 587 hectares accounted for the sown area, while the production volume - 545 tons. This situation began to improve only in 2016. By 2017 the area of tea plantations doubled up to 1,114.3 hectares and tea production increased by 42.2 percent up to 775.2 tons.

The implementation of the state program will make it possible to increase the area of tea plantations up to 3,000 hectares and tea harvesting  8,500 tons. This will greatly reduce import dependence, as well as increase the export potential of this sector.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed an order Feb. 12 approving the State Program for the Development of Tea Industry for 2018-2027.

According to the order, the state program is approved to develop tea growing, increase the export potential in this industry, and ensure the employment of rural population.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Maksim Tsurkov - Trend:

Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR will continue to diversify its business portfolio and make new investments in Turkey in the future, the company told Trend and Azernews.

SOCAR has invested in several countries, as well as in Turkey during the last decade in order to optimize its revenues and create added value for Azerbaijans economy, the company noted.

"The modernization and reconstruction of Petkim Petrochemical Complex and the construction of Petlim container port have already been completed successfully and we are happy to announce that two of our strategically important projects in Turkey, namely the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) and Star Oil Refinery will be commissioned this year," SOCAR said.

All of these projects are a part of SOCAR's vertical integration strategy, according to the company.

"We will also continue to diversify our business portfolio and make new investments in the future in order to boost economic development of Azerbaijan," the company said.

SOCAR is the biggest foreign investor of Turkey with its total investment to reach $19.5 billion by 2020.Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Feb. 12

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

On the previous week, 20 deals were closed on the Turkmen Commodity Exchange, press-office of the exchange announced on Feb. 12.

Afghan entrepreneurs bought diesel fuel produced on the Turkmenbashi refinery plants complex. Cotton yarn and cotton fiber were sold for foreign currency as well.

Purchaser countries are: Russia, United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Pakistan. All deals totaled more than $50.585 million.

Businesses and organizations of all ownership forms, residents of Turkmenistan and other countries can participate in the exchange trading by acquisition of a broker place or signing of service contract with exchange brokers.

Petrochemicals, cotton fiber, local textile and chemical production are the main exports.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Huseyn Valiyev  Trend:

Azermarka LLC will issue an exclusive series of post stamps dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Azerbaijan Republic, director of the company Leyla Gulaliyeva told Trend.

She said the post stamps will be issued in a limited number and are to be presented at the exhibition organized by Azermarka and dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Azerbaijan Republic.

We are also planning to issue thematic post stamps for the upcoming Novruz holiday," Gulaliyeva said. "We actively work to attract more people to philately. There was a period when many of us collected post stamps and wed like to save this tradition, of course. We especially want to see school and university students taking interest in philately.

Azermarka published a book titled Azerbaijan with thematic post stamps in the end of 2017, and the main goal now is to familiarize foreign philatelists with cultural heritage of the country, according to her.

Along with historical monuments, modern architecture of Baku, national cuisine, flora and fauna of the country, the book also covers tolerance. Post stamps can carry information about a country to any part of the world, she added.

Artist and art historian Leyla Gulaliyeva is heading Azermarka LLC as a director since January 2018. She stepped in for the previous director Intigam Bagirli.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @h_veliyevBaku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Maksim Tsurkov  Trend:

Schedule of the Baku-Tbilisi-Baku passenger train will change starting from Feb. 15, the Azerbaijan Railways CJSC told Trend Feb. 12.

Changes in the schedule are related to the increase in train speed on the Baku-Boyuk Kasik railway line, according to the message.

Thus, departing from Baku at 21:50 (GMT +4), the train will arrive in Tbilisi at 10:30 (instead of 10:50), the message said. The train will depart from Tbilisi at 20:35 (instead of 19:45) and arrive in Baku at 09:00.

Implementation of the project to overhaul the 600-km Baku-Boyuk Kasik railway started in October 2015.

To date, 450 kilometers of the railway have been overhauled.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb.12

By Nigar Guliyeva  Trend:

Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov, who is in Delhi on a working visit, held a meeting with India's Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj.

As continuation of the regular Uzbek-Indian dialogue at various levels, the ministers discussed topical issues on the bilateral agenda, certain topics of regional cooperation.

The sides noted the growing interest among Uzbek and Indian political, business and other circles in the further strengthening of cooperation between the two countries. Foremost, they talked about creating conditions and mutual support of contacts between Uzbek and Indian entrepreneurs, representing leading firms and companies.

Kamilov informed the Indian minister about the progress in preparation for the upcoming international Tashkent Conference on Afghanistan The Peace Process, Security Cooperation and Regional Connectivity. At the meeting, they also discussed other issues of mutual interest.

The Indian side fully supported the initiative of Uzbekistan to host the Tashkent forum on Afghanistan.There are no citizens of Kyrgyzstan registered among those killed in a airplane crash in Ramenskoye district of Moscow region (Russia), Kabar with reference to the Embassy of Kyrgyzstan in Russia reported.

In the afternoon of Sunday, on Feb. 11, in the Ramenskoye district of Moscow region, the passenger An-148 aircaraft of the Saratov Airlines that flew to Orsk disappeared from the radar screens of Domodedovo, RIA-Novosti reported.

The Rosaviation told that the connection with the An-148 crew of the Saratov Airlines, Moscow-Orsk flight 703 disappeared a few minutes after it took off from the Domodedovo airport and the aircraft's scribe mark disappeared from the locators. There were allegedly 65 passengers and six crew members on the board according to the agency.

Head of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, Vladimir Puchkov told reporters on the completion of rescue operations at the site of the An-148 crash. All the people who were in the plane died, so the rescue operation moved to the search stage, the RIA-Novosti reported.

"Rescue work is completed. We confirm that 71 people died who were on the board," Puchkov said. The main searching works in the Ramenskoye district can be completed within a week.

The Investigative Committee of Russia opened a criminal case under the article Violation of rules for operation of air transport, which resulted to the death of two or more persons.Tajik President Emomali Rahmon expressed condolences to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the recent plane crash near Moscow, local news agency Sputnik Tajikistan reported referring to the presidents press-office.

"We share the pain of bereavement and express our sincere condolences to the families and friends of the deceased," the message said.

The An-148 passenger plane of the Saratov Airlines [flight 730 from Moscow to Orsk] took off from the Domodedovo airport at 14:21 Moscow time.

According to preliminary data, there were 65 passengers and six crew members aboard the plane. Radio contact with the plane was lost several minutes after the takeoff and the plane went out of the radars. As reported by TASS, as a result of the plane crash there are no survivors.Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Feb. 12

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguli Berdimuhamedov confirmed the structure of the Turkmen part of Turkmen-Belarus intergovernmental committee on scientific and technological cooperation.

Document was signed in order to further develop cooperation between Turkmenistan and Belarus, a message of the Turkmen government said.

Turkmenistan is one of the key partners of Belarus in Central Asia, message on the web-site of Belarus embassy in Ashgabat reads.

Goods turnover between Belarus and Turkmenistan reached to the following figures: $15.6 million in 2006, $87.9 million in 2007, $49.5 million in 2008, $74.8 million in 2009, $90.7 million in 2010, $237.2 million in 2011, $237.8 million in 2012, $319 million in 2013, $195 million in 2014, $93.6 million in 2015, $120.6 million in 2016, $44.9 million in the first half of 2017.

Belarus mainly exports goods with high added value to Turkmenistan: freight cars, special purpose cars, tractors, road construction machinery, medicines, woodworking industry production, agricultural production etc.

About 6,000 tractors of Minsk Tractor Works (MTZ) and more than 10,000 freight cars of Minsk Automobile Plant (MAZ) were exported to Turkmenistan in 20092017. Realization of mineral processing plant for potassium fertilizers production in Labap province of Turkmenistan is an example of successful cooperation. Belgorkhimprom complex, built in March 2017, is designed to produce 1.4 million tons of fertilizers per year.Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Feb. 12

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

Turkmenistan is taking appropriate steps to include Turkmen carpet-weaving art to the UNESCO World Heritage list, local newspaper Neutral Turkmenistan reported on Feb. 12.

Unique historic-cultural monuments of Turkmenistan such as Ancient Merv, Kunya Urgench and Ancient Nisa were included to the list earlier.

Kusht Depdi, a Turkmen national art of signing and dancing, was included to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in Dec. 2017.

Work is in progress to include the Akhal-Teke horse breeding to the list as well, and Koytendag ecosystem and Badkhyz State Nature Reserve  to the UNESCO Natural Heritage list.

Turkmen carpets became a national brand and it is an important part of income for the country.

Turkmenistan carries out fundamental work on restoration of antique ornaments. Tens of 17th19th century carpets were restored in the past several years.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Khalid Kazimov  Trend

Irans health tourism has seen a growth of 25 percent over the last ten years.

Mohammad Jahangiri, the head of Iranian Association for Development of Medical Tourism Services, has said that the health tourism earns the country three times more than the ordinary tourism arrivals, state-run TV IRINN reported.

The volume of job creation through the health tourism is two times more than the ordinary sector, he added.

He further added that about 300,000 patients arrived in the country over the last fiscal year (ending March 20), indicating an increase of 25 percent over the last ten years.

The official further forecasted that the country will be capable of admitting about 1.5 million tourists within the coming eight years.

Iran has already allocated about $439 billion to develop the health tourism sector, he said.

Saying that per foreign patient spends about $4,000-$8,000 for treatment in Iran, he added that the costs of visiting the country for an ordinary tourist is about $2,000-$3,000.

Jahangiri believes that the health tourism accounts for an eight percent share of the countrys job market.

Mohammad Panahi, deputy head of Association for Development of Medical Tourism Services, earlier told Trend that Irans revenue from medical tourism in 2015 and 2016 amounted to $1.2 billion.

The official added that the country plans to generate $5 billion in revenue from health tourism over the next five years.

About 200,000 tourists arrived in Iran from Iraq over the last fiscal 2017/18 to receive healthcare services.

Iraq, Azerbaijan and Oman respectively account for the highest number of arrivals in this sector.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Farhad Daneshvar - Trend:

Sukhoi Civil Aircraft has brought its Superjet 100 to Tehrans Mehrabad airport to display the aircraft's capabilities.

A group of Russian engineers have also arrived in the Iranian capital to present the aircraft to the airlines of the Middle Eastern nation, local media reported.

The move comes amid Sukhoi efforts to sell its products to Iran which is looking to renew its aged aviation fleet in the post sanctions era.

Following the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA/ nuclear deal) in January 2016, Iran concluded deals to acquire 100 planes from Airbus, 80 from Boeing and 20 from ATR.

In the addition to the eight ATR, the country has already received three Airbus, increasing the number of Irans post-sanctions aircraft to 11.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Gazenfer Hamidov  Trend:

Iranian contractors will take part in infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka, based on an agreement signed between Tehran and Colombo.

The two parties signed a memorandum of understanding to boost mutual cooperation in various sectors, the Iranian official IRNA news agency reported Feb. 10.

Under the memo, which was inked within a visit of Iranian economic delegation to the Asian country, the two sides will take steps to facilitate mutual trade and air transportation.

Furthermore, Iranian contractors will involve in Sri Lanka's infrastructure projects in the health and communications sectors.

The sides also agreed on organization of an exhibition of Iranian products in Sri Lanka.

Iran and Sri Lanka also agreed to finalize drafting of several cooperation documents in the areas of health, agriculture, cultural exchanges and customs as soon as possible.

The document also envisages a deadline for settling the banking issues between the two countries.

Although almost two years have passed since the international sanctions on Iran have been eliminated, the dispute between Tehran and Colombo over a huge unpaid oil bill by Sri Lanka remains unresolved.

Last year Irans foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif expressed hope that the two countries energy cooperation would be boosted after settling the "remaining financial obstacles."

However, it seems that no significant progress has been made so far regarding the issue.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Azer Ahmadbayli  Trend:

Transition of Irans official position about its malign activities from it is not negotiable under any circumstances to make the deal a successful experience and then we discuss other issues has come out of the blue.

The US and its European allies should ensure the nuclear deal is a success before demanding to negotiate other issues such as Irans regional activities or a ballistic missile program, Irans deputy foreign minister Abbas Araqhchi said, Reuters reported.

Now they ask Iran to enter discussions on other issues. Our answer is clear: make the deal a successful experience and then we discuss other issues, Abbas Araqhchi said.

Until a few weeks ago Iranian top officials firmly said the Iranian missile program is not negotiable at all. Now, the possibility has surfaced. There must be a really good reason for such change of mind.

Since the very late of last year, two waves has swept across Iran  a bigger one, which was popular protests with demand to change things in the country, and a smaller one, being womens public protests against the compulsory dress-code law.

It turns out, there has been a related third wave  but this time on social networks  which, nevertheless, seems to be the most unpleasant and dangerous one for the Iranian authorities.

A new public campaign among Iranians on social media began after remarks made by Irans former reformist President Mohammad Khatami that people of Iran didnt support overthrow of current political system but they insisted only on reforms.

Straight after the comments, a #barandazam hashtag meaning I overthrow has appeared on social media platforms, gaining prominence and rising in number.

The paper inside the suitcase reads down with dictator and #Barandazam

No one counted how many people joined the campaign. However, in times when Iran marks the 39th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, a split occurred between the reformist wing of Iranian leadership and its numerous supporters, a part of whom do not even see sense in conducting reforms within the current political system.

Under such conditions, it is natural that the lower classes, who were the grassroots supporters of the Islamic Revolution, will turn into a gunpowder barrel, Mehdi Karroubi, an Iranian opposition leader who has been kept under house arrest over the past years told Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei through an open letter.

Its for the first time when not only a handful of people call into question the existing system of governance. This seems to shake the system of checks and balances that for years provided the necessary safeguard for the ruling power.

There are also numerous appeals in social networks, which might pose a serious threat to the countrys financial stability if they become widespread.

The screenshot above shows a Facebook page with over 40,000 followers encouraging people to pull out their money from the countrys bank accounts.

I was in a bank today to pull out my money. It was so tough. They did not want to pay cash. They told me that bank was out of cash I eventually managed to pull out a part of my money. Ask people to pull out their money from banks, one user wrote on Facebook on Feb.7.

The nations leadership should do something urgently to calm down the protest mood among the population. Maybe, its what makes official Tehran talk about things previously not being subject to discussion.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12



By Ali Mustafayev - Trend:

The results of the presidential election in Azerbaijan will definitely have a positive impact on bilateral relations between the two countries, political scientist, researcher at the Institute of Economics of the Russian Academy of Sciences Alexander Karavaev told Trend.



Next presidential election in Azerbaijan is to be held on April 11, 2018, according to an order signed Feb. 5 by the country's President Ilham Aliyev. According to the Calendar Plan of Azerbaijans Central Election Commission (CEC), pre-election campaigning starts 23 days prior to the voting day and is stopped 24 hours before the start of voting. Thus, the campaigning will start on March 19 and end at 08:00 (local time) on April 10.

Alexander Karavayev believes Azerbaijan and Russia are closely connected by friendly relations throughout the centuries, and now the two countries are reliable strategic partners.

"I think the same level of cooperation will be implemented after the election," he said.

Meanwhile, Russia is getting ready to hold its own presidential election in March of 2018.

Karavayev further added that Russia may send its group of observers to the presidential elections in Azerbaijan, in the context of support to the friendly country.

The 6th congress of the New Azerbaijan Party was held in the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku Feb. 8. The decision was made during the congress to nominate chairman of the party Ilham Aliyev as a presidential candidate. The decision was unanimously adopted.

Back in December 2017, according to a survey conducted by the public association ELS Independent Research Center, about 91.4 percent of respondents support the foreign policy of President Ilham Aliyev.

The public association ELS Independent Research Center conducted the survey to assess the current socio-political situation, voter turnout, and the populations attitudes to the current issues.

The study was conducted in November-December 2017 in the form of an express survey in 68 districts of the country (with the exception of the territory of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and the occupied districts).

The survey was conducted at respondents homes, face to face in the form of a poll. In general, 4,560 respondents were surveyed.China has urged controlling investors in listed companies to boost their holdings and some mutual funds to limit equity selling this week, according to people familiar with the matter, as officials seek to stem the impact of the stock selloff, Bloomberg reports.

Over the weekend, the China Securities Regulatory Commission and other regulators sent informal directives to some major stockholders encouraging them to purchase more shares in the mainland-listed firms they invest in, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the instructions were not made public. They called on some mutual funds to avoid being net sellers of equities as well.

Brokerages were also asked to provide trading summaries from last week to the regulator, and trading plans and previews for this week, the people said. The CSRC didnt immediately respond to a fax seeking comment on Monday.

As the global equity rout rocked markets last week, Chinese shares on the mainland plunged the most in two years, fueling speculation the government would step in to calm trading -- as it has during past selloffs. Initially triggered by the slump in U.S. shares, Chinas retreat has been exacerbated by the looming Spring Festival holiday, which typically sees traders wanting to reduce holdings before the break. Beijings ongoing drive to reduce leverage in China has also added to downward pressure.

China has a track record of intervening to staunch losses in the mainland market, which -- unlike Hong Kong -- is dominated by individual investors. The practice has spurred concern over moral hazard, as it creates expectations during times of volatility that officials will come to the rescue.

While the informal directives were conveyed at the weekend, Bloombergs calculations show that more than 110 companies listed in Shanghai and Shenzhen issued statements related to major shareholders boosting their stakes between Feb. 9 and Feb. 12.

The Shanghai Stock Exchange said on Friday that it has issued warnings and limited intraday trading to prevent large equity sales that affected the markets stability. Meanwhile, the China Securities Investment Services Center -- a body serving smaller investors thats managed by the CSRC -- said major shareholders can boost investor confidence by purchasing stocks, Shanghai Securities News reported on Monday.

The Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.4 percent as of 1:39 p.m. local time on Monday, while the Shenzhen gauge added 2.4 percent.German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called for younger members of her party to fill ministerial positions in the new government, BBC reports.

"We need to ensure that not only the over-60s are considered but also younger people," she told German TV.

She also defended "painful" concessions made to the the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD) to clinch a coalition deal.

The deal followed months of wrangling after an inconclusive election.

However it still needs to be approved by the SPD's 460,000 members, with the result due in March.

On Friday SPD leader Martin Schulz abandoned a plan to serve as foreign minister in the new government, saying he did not want debate about his role to jeopardise the new coalition.

"Now we need to show that we can start with a new team," Mrs Merkel said. The CDU has six ministerial posts to fill.

Some in her conservative CDU/CSU party are unhappy that the key finance ministry has gone to the SPD, fearing that the fiscal discipline of former Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble could become a thing of the past.

But Mrs Merkel sought to reassure her critics.

"I want to say that the we have also approved the policies and the finance minister cannot simply do as he likes," she said.

The SPD have been critical of what they call the "forced austerity" imposed on struggling southern European countries such as Greece under Mr Schauble and said during the election campaign that they would boost investment.

On Saturday the SPD's Olaf Scholz, who is expected to become finance minister, said Germany should not tell other European countries how to run their economies and that mistakes had been made.

But Mr Scholz also said that the SPD would maintain Mr Schauble's balanced budget policy.Lebanon said on Friday it had signed its first offshore oil and gas exploration and production agreements for two blocks, one of them disputed by neighboring Israel, Haaretz reports.

Lebanons energy minister said the dispute with Israel would not stop Lebanon from benefiting from potential undersea reserves in the contentious Block 9, while consortium operator Total said it would not drill the blocks first well near the disputed zone.

A consortium of Frances Total, Italys Eni and Russias Novatek signed the agreements for the two blocks, which are among five that Lebanon put up for tender in the countrys much-delayed first licensing round.

Israel and Lebanon have exchanged threats and condemnations over the tender, amid rising tensions over territorial and marine boundaries between them.11-year-old girl raped in Siraha

An 11-year-old girl was raped in Siraha Municipality, Siraha district on Thursday evening. The incident was revealed after the victim was admitted to a hospital in Lahan.The explosion of a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) tank, at the entrance to the carnival in the city of Oruro, on Saturday night killed eight people and injured another 40, the police announced on Sunday, according to Xinhua.

Romel Cesar Rana, deputy commander of the Oruro police, told a press conference about the details, while a police confirmed that four adults and four children had been killed.

According to the report, a roadside food stall owner had badly installed the gas tank, causing the explosion, along the route where thousands of dancers were taking part in the Oruro Carnival.

The impact area had a radius of at least 50 meters, due to the poor handling and installation of the pipe linking the gas tank to the cooker.

"The hot oil caused the deterioration of the pipe, causing a gas leak which sparked the explosion," said the police chief.

President Evo Morales, who was not attending the event as he usually does, wrote on Twitter that he was "aghast" at the deaths and expressed his solidarity with the families of the victims.

The area of the blast is invaded every year by large numbers of vendors who sell food and various articles, with no supervision.Russia is ready to consider ways to improve its bilateral relations with the United States, but only in conditions of equality, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Sunday, Sputnik reported.

In his interview with the Rossiya 1 broadcaster, Lavrov stressed that Russia was open for any framework that Washington was willing to use to improve bilateral dialogue, but "exclusively on the basis of equality and without preconditions."

"We repeatedly offered specific things to our American partners, in the framework of my regular contacts with [US Secretary of State] Rex Tillerson we provided our proposals on how to gradually move away from this dangerous and rather stupid situation. In most cases, we do not receive a reciprocal reaction," the foreign minister underlined.

At the same time, the diplomat noted a number of "positive exceptions" in the current Russian-US relations, including the work in Syria on the military side to prevent unintended incidents and the Syrian settlement in general.

The foreign minister underlined that Russia was not turning its allies against other countries as opposed to the United States which was trying to make other NATO countries see Russia as a threat.

"This is the big difference between us and the United States, which in recent years is obsessed with the idea to simply make not only its allies but also many other countries in all regions take hostile stance towards Russia or stop developing good relations with it," Lavrov said.

According to Lavrov, a greater number of specific joint projects with the United States could increase the chance to overcome the existing difficulties in the Russian-US relations. The minister pointed out that Washington was interested in cooperating with Moscow on issues related to the International Space Station and the purchase of the Russian rocket engines.Non-governmental organizations pledged $330 million of humanitarian aid to Iraq on Monday, Reuters with reference to the Kuwaits state news agency KUNA reported.

The organizations were meeting as international donors gathered in Kuwait to discuss Iraqs reconstruction after years of war and economic turmoil.Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 12

By Rufiz Hafizoglu  Trend:

Turkey not willing to have a dialogue with the US regarding Syria, Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag said according to Turkish media.

The US must immediately stop supporting terrorists, instead of sending a delegation to Turkey to negotiate the Olive Branch operation, Bozdag added.

Earlier, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim announced that about 8,00010,000 PYD/YPG terrorists are supposed to be hiding in Afrin, Syria.

On Jan. 20, the Turkish Armed Forces, together with the Free Syrian Army, launched the Operation Olive Branch in Afrin, Syria.

F-16 fighters of the Turkish Air Force are involved in the operation, inflicting strikes on the positions of PYD/YPG on the Syrian-Turkish border.

Turkey began drawing its military to the Syrian border from the late June, 2017. The forces were being concentrated in Turkish Kilis province bordering Syrian territory controlled by YPG/PYD.

On Aug. 24, 2016, Turkish Armed Forces, with the support of the Syrian opposition, launched the Euphrates Shield operation against the IS militants and liberated the city of Jarabulus as well as the city of Al-Bab in northern Syria.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizogluBy Gus Fielding, KYODO NEWS - Feb 12, 2018 - 14:50 | Sports, All, News

Japan missed out on a figure skating team medal at the Pyeongchang Games on Monday, finishing the final in last place for the second straight Winter Olympics.

Canada went one better than its Sochi Olympic silver medal, securing the gold with one event -- the ice dance free dance -- to spare. The Canadians, in the end, had a final score of 73 points, the Olympic Athlete from Russia team took the silver with 66 and the United States, with 62 points, the bronze medal. Italy (56) was fourth and Japan (50) fifth.

(Getty)

Japan started the day in fifth and was looking for a lift from Keiji Tanaka in the men's free program and then Kaori Sakamoto in the women's free, but neither was able to find their spark on Olympic debut, recording the lowest scores in their respective events.

Kana Muramoto and Chris Reed also placed last in the ice dance free dance.

In the men's free program, Tanaka had his opening quadruple salchow downgraded to a double and never recovered, his skate earning only 148.36 points, all but ending Japan's chances of a medal.

"I thought the salchow would influence the way I jumped the rest of the way and I wasn't able to find a way back," said Tanaka, whose second quad salchow was also downgraded.

"I didn't want to let it drag me down...I am really disappointed. I have to learn from my mistakes today and try and skate with strength and confidence (in the singles event)."

Sakamoto skated a relatively clean program but admitted she was forced to chase points after under-rotating a triple flip at the start of her skate.

"I was left trying to figure out what to do," said the 17-year-old Sakamoto.

"When you succeed on your first jump you tend to get better and better but when something like that happens you are left trying to work out where you can recover in the rest of your program. I feel bad that I have let the team down."

Three-time world champion Patrick Chan recovered from a poor short program to record a season-best score of 179.75 to top the men's free. The Canadians went on to claim victory after Gabrielle Daleman placed third in the women's free skate.

"We had determination this time around," said Chan. "We saw the potential we had in Sochi and didn't capitalize on it. This time, we really wanted to nail it into the coffin and win this thing."

"It's such an exhilarating feeling because we're such a tight-knit team, and we've been from the same generation so we want to win this medal for all of us."

Daleman said, "It's super different (to Sochi). The first time I was (at the Olympics) I was there for the experience, but now I am here in Pyeongchang as a competitor and here to play."

"It was just so different then, the age and maturity-wise. I am just so honored I got to represent Canada in this team event. We have such a great, strong team and I couldn't be more proud."

Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir put the icing on the cake for Canada with victory in the ice dance, scoring 118.10.

Adding to the drama, a piece of figure skating history was written in the women's free skate when Mirai Nagasu became the first American woman to land a triple axel in Olympic competition.

"Four years ago when I was left off the (U.S. Olympic) team, I wanted to make another Olympic team, and I knew I would really have to be something special," said Nagasu, whose parents emigrated from Japan to the United States.

"So to become the first American (female figure skater) to land a triple axel at the Olympic Games is historical, and no one can take that away from me."New York, N.Y.--February 12, 2018--A new optical imaging system developed at Columbia University uses red and near-infrared light to identify breast cancer patients who will respond to chemotherapy. The imaging system may be able to predict response to chemotherapy as early as two weeks after beginning treatment.

Findings from a first pilot study of the new imaging system--a noninvasive method of measuring blood flow dynamics in response to a single breath hold--were published today in Radiology.

The optical imaging system was developed in the laboratory of Andreas Hielscher, professor of biomedical engineering and electrical engineering at Columbia Engineering and professor of radiology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

"There is currently no method that can predict treatment outcome of chemotherapy early on in treatment, so this is a major advance," says Hielscher, co-leader of the study, who is also a member of the Breast Cancer Program at the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. His dynamic optical tomographic breast imaging system generates 3D images of both breasts simultaneously. The images enable the researchers to look at blood flow in the breasts, see how the vasculature changes, and how the blood interacts with the tumor. He adds,

"This helps us distinguish malignant from healthy tissue and tells us how the tumor is responding to chemotherapy earlier than other imaging techniques can."

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy, given for five to six months before surgery, is the standard treatment for some women with newly diagnosed invasive, but operable, breast cancer. The aim of neoadjuvant chemotherapy is to eliminate active cancer cells--producing a complete response--before surgery. Those who achieve a complete response have a lower risk of cancer recurrence than those who do not. However, fewer than half of women treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy achieve a complete response.

"Patients who respond to neoadjuvant chemotherapy have better outcomes than those who do not, so determining early in treatment who is going to be more likely to have a complete response is important," says Dawn Hershman, MD, leader of the Breast Cancer Program at the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia and co-leader of the study. "If we know early that a patient is not going to respond to the treatment they are getting, it may be possible to change treatment and avoid side effects."

The researchers had suspected that looking at the vasculature system in breasts might hold a clue. Breast tumors have a denser network of blood vessels than those found in a healthy breast. Blood flows freely through healthy breasts, but in breasts with tumors, blood gets soaked up by the tumor, inhibiting blood flow. Chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells, but they also affect the vasculature inside the tumor. The team thought they might be able to pick optical clues of these vascular changes, since blood is a strong absorber of light.

The researchers analyzed imaging data from 34 patients with invasive breast cancer between June 2011 and March 2016. The patients comfortably positioned their breasts in the optical system, where, unlike mammograms, there was no compression.

The investigators captured a series of images during a breath hold of at least 15 seconds, which inhibited the backflow of blood through the veins but not the inflow through the arteries. Additional images were captured after the breath was released, allowing the blood to flow out of the veins in the breasts. Images were obtained before and two weeks after starting chemotherapy. The researchers then compared the images with the patients' outcomes after five months of chemotherapy. They found that various aspects of the blood inflow and outflow could be used to distinguish between patients who respond and those who do not respond to therapy. For example, the rate of blood outflow can be used to correctly identify responders in 92.3 percent of patients, while the initial increase of blood concentration inside the tumor can be used to identify non-responders in 90.5 percent of patients.

"If we can confirm these results in the larger study that we are planning to begin soon, this imaging system may allow us to personalize breast cancer treatment and offer the treatment that is most likely to benefit individual patients," says Hershman, who is also a professor of medicine and epidemiology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

Researchers are also studying other imaging technologies for breast cancer treatment monitoring, such as MRI, X-ray imaging, and ultrasound, but Hielscher notes that these have not yet shown as much promise as this new technology.

"X-ray imaging uses damaging radiation and so is not well-suited for treatment monitoring, which requires imaging sessions every two to three weeks," he says. "MRIs are expensive and take a long time, from 30-90 minutes, to perform. Because our system takes images in less than 10 minutes and uses harmless light, it can be performed more frequently than MRI."

Hielscher and Hershman are currently refining and optimizing the imaging system and planning a larger, multicenter clinical trial. They hope to commercialize their technology in the next three to five years.

###

About the Study

The study is titled "Dynamic diffuse optical tomography for monitoring neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients."

Authors are: Jacqueline Gunther, Mirella Altoe, Molly Flexman (department of biomedical engineering, Columbia Engineering); Emerson Lim (department of internal medicine, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia); Hyun Keol Kim (department of biomedical engineering; department of radiology, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia); Susan Refice, Mindy Brown (Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia); Kevin Kalinsky (department of internal medicine; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center); Dawn Hershman (department of internal medicine; Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center; department of epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health);and Andreas H. Hielscher (department of biomedical engineering; department of radiology; department of electrical engineering).

The development of the original breast imaging system was supported by the NYSTAR program of the Governor of New York. The lead student on the study (Jaqueline Gunther) was supported in part by the NSF-IGERT for Optical Techniques for Actuation, Sensing and Imaging of Biological Systems.

The authors declare no financial or other conflicts of interest.

LINKS:

Paper: https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.2018161041

http://engineering.columbia.edu/

http://www.cumc.columbia.edu/

http://bme.columbia.edu/andreas-h-hielscher

http://pubs.rsna.org/journal/radiology

Columbia Engineering

Columbia Engineering, based in New York City, is one of the top engineering schools in the U.S. and one of the oldest in the nation. Also known as The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, the School expands knowledge and advances technology through the pioneering research of its more than 200 faculty, while educating undergraduate and graduate students in a collaborative environment to become leaders informed by a firm foundation in engineering. The School's faculty are at the center of the University's cross-disciplinary research, contributing to the Data Science Institute, Earth Institute, Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Precision Medicine Initiative, and the Columbia Nano Initiative. Guided by its strategic vision, "Columbia Engineering for Humanity," the School aims to translate ideas into innovations that foster a sustainable, healthy, secure, connected, and creative humanity.

Columbia University Irving Medical Center provides international leadership in basic, preclinical, and clinical research; medical and health sciences education; and patient care. The medical center trains future leaders and includes the dedicated work of many physicians, scientists, public health professionals, dentists, and nurses at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Mailman School of Public Health, the College of Dental Medicine, the School of Nursing, the biomedical departments of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and allied research centers and institutions. Columbia University Irving Medical Center is home to the largest medical research enterprise in New York City and State and one of the largest faculty medical practices in the Northeast. For more information, visit cumc.columbia.edu or columbiadoctors.org.

NewYork-Presbyterian

NewYork-Presbyterian is one of the nation's most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare delivery systems, whose organizations are dedicated to providing the highest quality, most compassionate care and service to patients in the New York metropolitan area, nationally, and throughout the globe. In collaboration with two renowned medical schools, Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbia University Irving Medical Center, NewYork-Presbyterian is consistently recognized as a leader in medical education, groundbreaking research and innovative, patient-centered clinical care.

NewYork-Presbyterian has four major divisions:

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital is ranked #1 in the New York metropolitan area by U.S. News and World Report and repeatedly named to the Honor Roll of "America's Best Hospitals."

NewYork-Presbyterian Regional Hospital Network comprises hospitals and other facilities in the New York metropolitan region.

NewYork-Presbyterian Physician Services, which connects medical experts with patients in their communities.

NewYork-Presbyterian Community and Population Health, encompassing ambulatory care network sites and community healthcare initiatives, including NewYork Quality Care, the Accountable Care Organization jointly established by NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbia.

For more information, visit http://www.nyp.org and find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.With the February market turmoil fresh in everyone's minds, it's hard to remember that some companies had a dismal January, too. And it's especially important for investors looking to pick up some bargains to know which stocks are down thanks to the February market correction -- and which ones were already heading south.

Three stocks that suffered in January despite the S&P 500's 5.6% gain included industrial stalwart General Electric (NYSE: GE), down 7%; air carrier Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK), down 11%; and miner Northern Dynasty Minerals (NYSEMKT: NAK), down an astonishing 44%.

Here's why they flopped -- and what to do now.

A man in a suit watches a large red arrow crashing downward through the surface on which he stands.

The stock market has trended downward, but these three companies were already on the rocks. Image source: Getty Images.

GE slumps -- again

Shares of industrial giant General Electric have been slumping for more than a year, so it's hardly a surprise that they did so again in January. But in this instance, the stock was hit with a double-whammy in the form of a tepid earnings report and an unexpected insurance charge.

The insurance charge grabbed many headlines, and the details are complicated, but the upshot is that, thanks to accumulated charges stemming from a decade-old insurance business, GE had to take a $6.2 billion after-tax charge in 2017, and its GE Capital financial arm is now on the hook for some $15 billion in additional charges over the next seven years. The good news is that GE Capital seems to have the liquidity to make these charges. The bad news is that GE Capital will have to suspend the dividends it had been paying to its parent company.

On top of that, the company's power segment -- its largest by revenue -- posted a massive decline in year-over-year profit for both Q4 and full-year 2017. Annual profit was down 45% for the troubled unit, while quarterly profit was lower by an incredible 88%. CEO John Flannery said he expected "market challenges" to continue, in yet another worrisome sign for investors.

Story continues

It's possible that all the bad news has finally come out for GE, and that the company's stock hit bottom at $14.25 a share during the February market correction. But even if that's true, it's likely to be a long, slow road to recovery -- or a company breakup -- for the industrial giant, and investors are probably better off putting their money elsewhere.

More than it could chew

GE wasn't alone in a poorly received earnings report this January. Troubled Alaska Air Group, owners of Alaska Airlines and Virgin Atlantic, saw its stock dip below $60 a share after the company reported a year-over-year decrease in EPS. That's down from more than $90 a share a year ago.

The company's EPS decline from $7.32 to $6.64 might seem fairly small. The problem is that Alaska Air completed its merger with Virgin Atlantic near the end of 2016, so you'd expect earnings to have increased, not decreased, now that the combined company is the fifth largest U.S. airline. And indeed, passenger revenue was up 36% for the year, but profit didn't cooperate.

Some of this was thanks to higher fuel costs, which don't look like they'll be going away anytime soon. Some was due to a slower-than-anticipated development of the synergies with Virgin. In 2018, a new pilot contract is also likely to increase costs, as may a new flight attendant contract that's currently being hammered out.

Given the issues Alaska Air Group is experiencing, it doesn't look particularly attractive for investors, especially not compared with some of the other carriers, like Southwest Airlines, which had a fantastic 2017 and looks poised for a good 2018 as well.

Pebble goes bam-bam

The smaller a company is, the more volatile it tends to be, and that's certainly the case with one of this January's biggest losers, Northern Dynasty Minerals.

Northern Dynasty has one really big thing going for it: It owns the largest undeveloped gold and copper mine in the world. The mine, located in Alaska, is referred to as the Pebble Project.

Before you get excited, though, the key word here is "undeveloped." As in, there's no money coming in from this mine yet, and there probably won't be until 2024. In the meantime, Northern Dynasty has to perform a series of preparatory tasks, which include things like getting permits, conducting feasibility, engineering, and environmental studies, and securing financing for the upfront costs.

Because the company is so small, though, it also needs a partner, which it was supposed to find by September at the latest. Currently, copper miner First Quantum Minerals has an option but hasn't made a public commitment.

But the EPA dealt a big setback to the project in late January, leaving in place a 2014 determination that the project could cause irreparable harm to the Bristol Bay watershed. That caused shares to tank.

Uncertainty surrounding the project and First Quantum's role in it continues to abound, and the stock will probably be volatile until things shake out. Investors are probably better off putting their money elsewhere unless they can stomach a high amount of risk for a faraway reward.

Investor takeaway

Many, many stocks are cheaper today than they were at the first of the year. And now looks like it might be a good time to go shopping for bargains. Unfortunately, GE, Alaska Air, and Northern Dynasty are in the bargain bin not because they were swept up in a selling frenzy, but because of serious issues with their near- and medium-term corporate outlooks. Investors can find much better -- and safer -- companies in which to invest.

More From The Motley Fool

John Bromels owns shares of General Electric. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.Jim Cramer sits down with 3M Chairman and CEO Inge Thulin to discuss the multinational manufacturer's array of forward drivers.

When people think about 3M (MMM), the 115-year-old maker of Scotch Tape, they might not associate the old-line consumer goods manufacturer with electric cars.

But that's not how 3M Chairman and CEO Inge Thulin sees it, he said in an exclusive interview on " Mad Money " with CNBC's Jim Cramer.

For Thulin and 3M, an old-line manufacturer serving a host of different industries including health care and transportation, auto electrification is just another market.

The CEO detailed three elements of 3M that put his massive multinational squarely at the center of the electric car trend: its longtime involvement in the automotive, electronic and energy, and traffic safety industries.

"If you take those three elements together, that is where the future is going," Thulin told Cramer. "We can capitalize on what we know in traffic safety, which is a very strong position for us not only in vertical signage, but in license plates and also pavement marking. That is where you need to regulate things going forward."

Thulin also emphasized the "incredible competitive position" the company has in the electronic market and its yearslong leadership in the automotive space.

"As I look upon the future, that's a market that will explode for 3M," the CEO said of electric cars. "That's around $6 billion addressable market with a growth rate of 8 to 10 percent ... and we are now growing that business around 15 to 20 percent if you combine the three elements."

As a company, 3M focuses heavily on research and development. About 30 percent of its sales coming from products that didn't exist five years ago, Thulin said.

The manufacturer also employs roughly 8,100 scientists to help it develop new products and build its brand equity around the world  one of the four main pillars of 3M.

"The fundamental strings of 3M [are] technology platforms, manufacturing capabilities, geographic reach and brand equity," Thulin told Cramer.

Story continues

To keep those strings intact, Thulin said that he's had to make some difficult decisions over the year regarding 3M's many lines of business.

"I found that many businesses inside of 3M did not meet those criteria, and in fact, they were underperforming versus 3M's average," the CEO said. "Our expectation is very high. The businesses that could not meet at least three of those four elements, we figure ... they will be better off with a different owner. They were often smaller, the margin was lower, they were not growing as fast and we couldn't create value. So we said, that's not a personal issue, it's a business issue. They can go somewhere else."

At the same time, 3M sought out businesses that stayed true to its four pillars and proved that they could create value, Thulin said.

"That's also why we have bought some sizeable businesses. And you're right, they are bigger, they are performing better, they are more profitable and the relevance for us in the market is very, very significant," he told Cramer.

"And still, I can tell you, Jim, one thing: 3M's best days are still ahead of us."

Watch Inge Thulin's full interview here:400m tunnel built at hydel project

A 400-metre long tunnel of the Kabeli-A hydroelectricity project at the Kabeli River has been completed by the projects contractor Zhejiyang Hydropower Construction and Installation Company Limited.America Movil AMX is scheduled to release fourth-quarter 2017 results on Feb 13, after the market closes.

The company portrays a negative earnings surprise history. Earnings lagged the Zacks Consensus Estimate in two of the previous four quarters, with an average miss of 29.17%

Lets see how things are shaping up prior to this announcement.

Factors Likely to Influence Q4 Earnings

America Movils efforts to systematically enrich spectrum portfolio with the acquisition of wireless spectrums instill optimism. The acquisition of 60 MHz of wireless spectrum (airwave) in the 2.5 GHz band from Grupo MVS (in July 2017) has enhanced the companys high-speed data service. Last year, the company gained additional spectrums in Uruguay and Costa Rica. Moreover, the wireless roaming agreement with U.S. telecom giant AT&T T should help the company retain position in the Mexican market. Meanwhile, regulatory approval from Argentina's National Communications Agency (Enacom) to enter into the pay-TV market in Argentina is a major positive for the company. Notably, the company has already established wireless and wireline operators in Argentina. Joint venture with JCDecaux should boost the companys out-of-home advertising businesses.

On the flip side, America Movils aggressive promotional strategies (like discounts and subsidized offers), aimed to increase penetration in the smartphone market, are concerns. These efforts may cause decline in margins with increased cost and expenses, affecting overall profits in the near term.

America Movils second-largest wireless market  Brazil  has become increasingly competitive. The companys Brazilian operation (Claro) faces competitive threat from Vivo, owned by Telefonica Brazil SA VIV. Meanwhile, AT&Ts entry into the Mexican telecom industry with the acquisition of Gurpo Iusacell and Nextel de Mexico pose severe competition for the company. To this end, the companys focus on shifting base from Mexico to Brazil in the wake of declining quarterly revenues looks viable.

Story continues

Accumulating debt and decreasing cash flows may pose problems for the companys credit ratings.

Price Performance

America Movil portrays an impressive price performance. In the past three months, the stock has rallied 2.9% against the industrys decline of 4.1%.

When compared with the market at large, the stock compares favorably with the S&P 500 indexs rally of 1.4%.

Earnings Whispers

Our proven model does not conclusively show that America Movil is likely to beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate this quarter. This is because a stock needs to have both a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) for this to happen. Unfortunately, that is not the case here as elaborated below.

Zacks ESP: America Movil has an Earnings ESP of 0.00%. This is because both the Most Accurate estimate and the Zacks Consensus Estimate are pegged at 35 cents. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before theyre reported with the Earnings ESP Filter.

Zacks Rank: America Movil has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).

We caution against stocks with a Zacks Rank #4 or 5 (Strong Sell) going into the earnings announcement, especially when the company is seeing negative estimate revisions.

America Movil, S.A.B. de C.V. Price and EPS Surprise

America Movil, S.A.B. de C.V. Price and EPS Surprise | America Movil, S.A.B. de C.V. Quote

Key Pick

CenturyLink CTL from the broader Computer and Technology sector has the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat in fourth-quarter 2017 results, slated to release on Feb 14. CenturyLink has an Earnings ESP of +14.87% and carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

The companys sales for fourth-quarter 2017 and first-quarter 2018 are estimated to increase 32.6% and 42.9%, respectively.

Wall Streets Next Amazon

Zacks EVP Kevin Matras believes this familiar stock has only just begun its climb to become one of the greatest investments of all time. Its a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in pure genius.



Click for details >>



Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report



AT&T Inc. (T) : Free Stock Analysis Report



CenturyLink, Inc. (CTL) : Free Stock Analysis Report



America Movil, S.A.B. de C.V. (AMX) : Free Stock Analysis Report



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To read this article on Zacks.com click here.Artificial intelligence still has a long way to go, says IBMs head of AI.

Artificial intelligence is perhaps the most hyped yet misunderstood field of study today.

IBM Research Vice President of AI Science Alexander Gray addressed the illusory nature of AI on Friday at Massachusetts Institute of Technologys 20th annual Venture Capital and Innovation Conference.

The biggest misconception is that we have it. I wouldnt even call it AI. I would say its right to call the field AI, were pursuing AI, but we dont have it yet, he said.

As an expert who has spent his career deeply entrenched in AI, having founded machine-learning software company Skytree, and teaching computing at George Institute of Technology, Gray says at present, humans are still sorely needed.

No matter how you look at it, theres a lot of handcrafting [involved]. We have ever increasingly powerful tools but we havent made the leap yet, he added.

Whether its Googles computer program AlphaGo or Sophia the so-called humanoid robot, the technological hurdles of robots to replace humans is coming, but its definitely not now.

According to Gray, were only seeing human-level performance for narrowly defined tasks. Most machine learning-based algorithms have to analyze thousands of examples, and havent achieved the idea of one-shot or few-shot learnings.

Once you go slightly beyond that data set and it looks different. Humans win. There will always be things that humans can do that AI cant do. You still need human data scientists to do the data preparation part  lots of blood and guts stuff that requires open domain knowledge about the world, he said.

Techs exponential growth

Referencing futurist Ray Kurzweils law of accelerating returns, Gray said while we may not be experiencing the full effects of AI yet, its going to happen a lot faster than we think  and thats where the fear comes in.

Everything moves on an exponential curve. I really do believe that we will start to see entire classes of jobs getting impacted. My fear is that we wont have the social structures and agreements on what we should do to keep pace with that. Im not sure if that makes me optimistic or pessimistic, he noted.

Story continues

This notion that humans are has-beens is perhaps one of the most falsest truisms, echoed Steve Vassallo, partner at early-stage venture firm Foundation Capital.

What do we need people for? Theres an algorithm for everything. Some of the most interesting startup opportunities in front of us are because of the limits of technology today, said Vassallo.

And when it comes to who will emerge the winner  whether researchers, academics, big tech companies or upstarts  design will play a much more important role than the technology itself.

Technical leaps are not the answer. Or they cant be your only thing. Itll be hard to maintain that edge. Its going to be about stuff that humans dont do very well  more about delivery, convenience, nicer packaging, said Gray.

Melody Hahm is a senior writer at Yahoo Finance, covering entrepreneurship, technology and real estate. Follow her on Twitter @melodyhahm.- By James Li





Charles Brandes (Trades, Portfolio), chairman of Brandes Investment Partners, invests in companies using a Graham-style approach. During fourth-quarter 2017, the guru initiated 45 new positions, including Comcast Corp. (CMCSA). Brandes' top three buys are Celestica Inc. (CLS), Avadel Pharmaceuticals PLC (AVDL) and Edgewell Personal Care Co. (EPC).





Comcast

Brandes invested in 116,178 shares of Comcast for an average price of $37.59 per share. The guru increased his portfolio 0.09% with this transaction.

Comcast, the holding company for NBC, said full-year consolidated revenues increased to $84.5 million, up 5.1% from the prior year. CEO Brian Roberts said the company has "significant momentum" going forward as the company markets "new innovations, experiences and must-see content" to global audiences. GuruFocus ranks Comcast's business predictability four stars out of five as the company has consistent revenue and earnings growth.

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Celestica

Brandes invested in 3,648,707 shares of Celestica for an average price of $11.07 per share. With this transaction, the guru increased his portfolio 0.77%.

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Celestica provides supply chain solutions to customers from a wide variety of industries. The company has four positive investing signs, including expanding operating margins and price-sales ratios near a five-year low. Despite this, Celestica's profitability ranks a modest 6 out of 10 as its profit margins underperform 63% of global competitors.

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Avadel Pharmaceuticals

Brandes invested in 3,308,250 shares of Avadel Pharmaceuticals for an average price of $9.38 per share. With this transaction, the guru increased his portfolio 0.55%.

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Avadel, an Irish specialty pharmaceutical company, markets various products, including controlled-release therapeutic products based on proprietary drug delivery technologies in the U.S. The company has a strong financial strength rank of 7, driven by low debt-to-equity ratios and robust interest coverage.

Story continues

Edgewell Personal Care

Brandes invested in 415,103 shares of Edgewell Personal Care for an average price of $63 per share. With this transaction, the guru increased his portfolio 0.50%.

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Edgewell Personal Care markets various personal care products, ranging from skin care to infant care. The company has a modest financial strength rank of 5: although the company's Piotroski F-score ranks a solid 7 out of 9, Edgewell's Altman Z-score of 1.73 implies moderate financial distress.

957576473.png

See also

You can view Brandes' current portfolio here. Premium members can access a wide variety of guru features, including real-time picks, sector picks and the aggregated portfolio of gurus.

Disclosure: No positions.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.





Cisco Systems Inc. CSCO is set to release second-quarter fiscal 2018 earnings on Feb 14. The company beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the trailing four quarters with an average positive surprise of 1.73%.



In the last quarter, the company reported non-GAAP earnings of 61 cents per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate by a penny. However, the figure remained unchanged on a year-over-year basis.



Cisco missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues in three of the trailing four quarters. Revenues declined 1.7% year over year in the first quarter to $12.14 billion and were almost in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. The decline was due to the transition to subscription-based model.



Guidance & Estimates



For second-quarter fiscal 2018, revenues are expected to increase in the range of 1-3% on a year-over-year basis. Non-GAAP earnings are anticipated between 58 and 60 cents per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 58 cents, while that for revenues stands at $11.73 billion.



Gross margin is expected in the range of 62.5-63.5%, while operating margin is anticipated between 29.5% and 30.5% for the quarter.



Ciscos stock has returned 26.9% in the last year, outperforming the 10.1% rally of the industry.





Lets see how things are shaping up for this announcement.



Collaborations to Drive Growth



Ciscos extended partnerships with the likes of Apple, IBM and Microsoft are likely to boost growth, particularly in the cloud and IoT.



During the quarter, the company witnessed enhanced product adoption. The majority of the companies including the likes of Ameritas and Orange selected Cisco to improve IT security, and enhance work processes and automation.



The company also announced various product innovations and partnership programs during the quarter. With emphasis on multicloud, the company announced its HyperFlex platform as well as its Container Platform, which is expected to further expand its product portfolio. The company is also reportedly working on a hyperconnected car in collaboration with Hyundai, which will help it in penetrating the smart-vehicle solutions market.



Cisco also joined forces with Apple, Aon and Allianz to provider better cyber risk management solutions for business, the effect of which is likely to be seen in the quarter to be reported.

Story continues

Cisco Systems, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise

Cisco Systems, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise | Cisco Systems, Inc. Quote

Security Segment: Key Catalyst



Ciscos expanding footprint in the rapidly-growing security market bodes well. The companys security solutions continue to add customers.



In the last quarter, Cisco reported double-digit order growth and 42% deferred revenue growth for the segment.



The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the Security segment revenues is currently pegged at $575 million.



Intense Competition Hurts Infrastructure Platforms



Infrastructure Platforms comprise switching, NGN routing, Wireless and Data Center. Notably, competition from several smaller players including Arista Networks is hurting top-line growth in the switching and routing businesses. Moreover, the ongoing transition to subscription-based model is a concern.



Nevertheless, we expect Cisco to deliver stellar performance in the Cloud services segment. The completion of Broadsofts acquisition during the quarter is accelerating Ciscos cloud strategy portfolio, helping it to achieve a leadership position in the segment.



What Our Model Says



According to the Zacks model, a company with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) has a good chance of beating estimates if it also has a positive Earnings ESP. Sell-rated stocks (Zacks Rank #4 or 5) are best avoided.



Cisco has a Zacks Rank #3 and an Earnings ESP of +0.59%, which indicates a likely positive earnings surprise. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before theyre reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.



Other Stocks to Consider



Here are some stocks you may also want to consider as our proven model shows that it has the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat this quarter.



Applied Materials AMAT has an Earnings ESP of +0.57% and a Zacks Rank #2. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.



SINA Corp. SINA has an Earnings ESP of +7.60% and a Zacks Rank #3.



HubSpot HUBS has an Earnings ESP of +1.32% and a Zacks Rank #3.



Wall Streets Next Amazon



Zacks EVP Kevin Matras believes this familiar stock has only just begun its climb to become one of the greatest investments of all time. Its a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in pure genius.



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Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO) : Free Stock Analysis Report



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To read this article on Zacks.com click here.



Zacks Investment ResearchHeres a look at some of the companies the Yahoo Finance team will be watching for you today.

Comcast (CMCSA) is hoping to steal Fox (FOX-A) away from Disney (DIS). The Wall Street Journal reports that Comcast is waiting to see how Fox justifies its $52.4B deal with Disney to shareholders before possibly making a new offer. Last year, Fox rejected Comcasts $60B bid amid concerns it wouldnt pass muster with regulators.

Chinas Alibaba (BABA) has signed a deal with Disney (DIS) to release Disney shows on its Youku streaming platform. According to Baba, Youku gets about 1.2 billion views each day. The move is expected to bolster Disneys standing abroad after years of struggling to get its content in China. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Ford (F) is revving up its SUV production targets by 25% amid strong demand for its Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition. Ford is taking on rivals GM (GM) and Chrysler Fiat (FCAU) in the SUV market as it tries to improve its profit margins. Shares of Ford are down about 14% so far this year.

Instagram (FB) wants to be more like Snapchat (SNAP). The app is testing a feature that shows when users take screenshots of someone elses story. Instagram users will now get a warning telling them the next time they take a screenshot, the other user will be notified. This has been a staple on rival Snapchat since its inception.ADB provides USD 100 million loan assistance to Nepal

Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to provide USD 100 million to Nepal for the Rural Connectivity Improvement Project. An agreement to this effect was signed and exchanged at the Ministry of Finance, Kathmandu, on Monday.HONG KONG, Feb 12 (Reuters) - Taiwan's Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics manufacturer, said it plans to use proceeds from a Shanghai listing of one if its subsidiaries to fund eight projects totalling 27.3 billion yuan ($4 billion).

In January, Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co, said its shareholders had approved a plan to list its subsidiary, Foxconn Industrial Internet Co Ltd (FII), on the Shanghai Stock Exchange.

FII said in a listing prospectus to the China Securities Regulatory Commission late on Friday that the eight projects were focused on building smart manufacturing platforms, cloud computing services and 5G solutions.

FII, which makes electronic devices, cloud service equipment and industrial robots, did not provide details on the size or timing of the initial public offering.

A Hon Hai unit, China Galaxy Enterprises Limited, directly and indirectly owns 69 percent of FII that was founded in March 2015, according to the prospectus.

China International Capital Corporation is the sponsor and lead underwriter for the IPO.

FII made a net profit of 16.2 billion yuan in 2017, according to the filing, representing a compounded annual growth rate of 6.32 percent from 14.4 billion yuan in 2015.

Revenue reached 354.5 billion yuan last year, representing an annual growth of 14 percent from 2015.

FII said its main clients include Amazon, Apple , ARRIS, Cisco, Dell, HPE, Huawei , Lenovo, NetApp, Nokia and nVidia. ($1 = 6.3053 Chinese yuan renminbi) (Reporting by Sijia Jiang)* IG Metall has called for strikes in row over pay, hours

* Three days of rolling 24-hr strikes to end Friday evening

* Workers down tools at Mercedes, Porsche, Audi, BMW plants

* Union, employers could resume talks on Monday (Adds German Trade Union Confederation comment, updated number of workers on strike)

By Maria Sheahan

FRANKFURT, Feb 2 (Reuters) - Car factories across Germany were at a standstill on Friday as industrial workers staged a third day of 24-hour strikes, focusing on plants owned by Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Audi and BMW .

The full-day walkouts, due to end late on Friday, are IG Metall's last warning shot before votes are cast on whether to take extended industrial action that could cost German companies hundreds of millions of euros in lost production.

Both the union and employers have said they are open to resuming talks on Monday, but they have each insisted that the other side must show more willingness to make concessions.

With Europe's largest economy in robust health and unemployment at record lows, the country's biggest union is demanding an 8 percent pay rise over 27 months for 3.9 million workers in the metals and engineering sector.

The union has also asked for workers to be given the right to reduce their weekly hours to 28 from 35 to care for children, elderly or sick relatives, and to be able to return to full time after two years.

Employers have offered a 6.8 percent wage increase, but rejected the demand for shorter hours unless they can also have the flexibility to increase workers' hours when necessary.

They have also dismissed the idea that they should make up some of the pay shortfall for workers who cut their hours.

Half a million workers have taken part in the three days of strikes this week, IG Metall said, hitting production at almost 280 companies including large companies such as Daimler and Airbus but also dozens of smaller suppliers of products used in the production of cars, aircraft and machinery.

Story continues

The union has targeted the automotive sector in particular.

Germany is home to around 1,000 car and car parts makers, accounting for roughly 10 percent of Europe's biggest economy and relying heavily on a well-oiled supply chain of components.

It was not immediately clear how big the loss of production was for the affected companies.

"Now it is up to the employers to understand the signal we are sending and make a significant improvement to their offer. If the employers are willing to do that, talks can resume on Monday," IG Metall chief Joerg Hofmann said.

The head of the national employers' association had told German TV station ZDF earlier on Friday that he hoped the conflict could be resolved early next week.

Reiner Hoffmann, head of Germany's association of labour unions, said he expected other unions to follow IG Metall's example and fight for more flexible working hours in upcoming negotiations, according to German weekly Spiegel.

Germany's second-biggest union, Verdi, is expected to publish its wage demand for the public sector on Feb. 8.

Verdi and IG Metall together account for about 15 percent of the German workforce, and other sectors tend to broadly follow their agreements. ($1 = 0.8039 euros) (Reporting by Maria Sheahan; Editing by Edwina Gibbs and Alison Williams)2017 wasn't a great year for shares of Holly Energy Partners (NYSE: HEP). On a total return basis -- that's dividends plus share price appreciation -- the midstream oil company posted a 9% gain. Considering the company has a dividend yield of 8% and the S&P 500 generated a total return of 21.8%, that's a weak year. There isn't much in the company's earnings reports that would suggest a bad year. For the most part, the company continued its slow and steady growth path.

Using an agricultural analogy, 2017 was a year to do a full crop rotation, as the company made some significant changes to how it does business. With the company set to start over in 2018, it is worth wondering if this stock is worth a buy at today's relatively cheap valuation. So let's look at some of the things that changed at Holly Energy Partners this past year and what it could mean for the future.

Stock index and chart superimposed over picture of oil refinery at night.

Image source: Getty Images.

Reconfigured for growth...

The most significant change at Holly Energy Partners this past year didn't have anything to do with its operations. Instead, it had to do with the significant change of its corporate and ownership structure. For years, Holly Energy Partners was a limited partner subsidiary of refining company HollyFrontier (NYSE: HFC). As the owner of the general partner stake, HollyFrontier also received incentive distribution rights (IDRs). These rights are akin to management fees, where the general partner is entitled to a higher percentage of total distributable cash flow as the per-unit distribution increases.

The theory behind this corporate structure is that it allows the parent organization to sell a large stake in the company to the public while maintaining operational control. Also, increasing its cut of distributable cash flow gives the parent incentive to grow that payout as quickly as possible. There is a side effect, though. As the IDR cut becomes greater and greater, it means you have to generate that much more cash flow to justify issuing new shares. This will inevitably restrict growth as the cost of capital becomes prohibitive to growth.

Story continues

So HollyFrontier's management acknowledged that this was an issue early on in the year, but it was also busy trying to integrate its recent acquisition. In October, though, the company announced a sweeping change to Holly Energy Partners, whereby it exchanged its general partner stake and its IDRs for 37 million common shares in the limited partnership. As a result of the transaction, HollyFrontier now owns 59% of the limited partner and retains voting control. With a single share class, though, it better aligns the parent organization's and public shareholders' interests as well as reduces the cost of capital.

Over the longer term, this change should make it easier for the company to grow its business through organic development as well as acquisitions. This type of move was incredibly popular in 2017, as investors started to see the general partner/limited partner structure as troublesome over the long run.

...but not a lot of growth in the pipeline

So the good news is that Holly Energy Partners has a much improved corporate structure that should encourage further growth and hopefully allow the company to maintain its streak of 52 consecutive quarters of distribution increases. The question that remains unanswered, though, is where the company is going to come up with the growth to ensure the streak stays alive.

As it stands, Holly Energy Partners has two organic growth projects in the wings: Increasing its crude oil gathering network in the Permian Basin, and expanding its SLC and Frontier pipelines to deliver crude from Casper, Wyoming, to its Salt Lake City refining complex. These are relatively minor projects -- management expects to spend $40 million-$50 million in 2018 on them -- and certainly isn't enough to support long-term distribution growth. Furthermore, HollyFrontier has sold all the assets it has that would reasonably work in a master limited partnership.

This leaves the company with one other outlet for growing the business: acquisitions. While that is certainly a viable way to grow the business, it's going to become harder and harder to find assets selling for reasonable prices as crude oil prices rise and North American oil production continues to grow. An ill-timed purchase or overpaying for a new asset can do a lot of damage to a company's cash-generating abilities.

Holly Energy Partners recently acquired the remaining stake in the SLC and Frontier pipelines from its former partner, which should give the company a little runway to grow its payout. Beyond that, though, it's looking like slim pickings.

HEP Total Return Price Chart

HEP Total Return Price data by YCharts

What a Fool believes

For the most part, I'm willing to give management the benefit of the doubt here. So far it has adeptly run the business and kept it out of financial trouble. So there is reason to believe that it can continue to do so. It would be much more reassuring, though, if the company had a more visible growth pipeline that could show investors growth for the next couple of years. Perhaps with this new corporate structure in place and a lower cost of capital, management will have a wider array of projects to select from.

More From The Motley Fool

Tyler Crowe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.SEOUL/SINGAPORE, Feb 12 (Reuters) - South Korea's state-run Korea Gas Corp (KOGAS) has gone into an arbitration with Australia's North West Shelf Gas to settle a liquefied natural gas (LNG) contract that ended in 2016, a company spokesman said on Monday.

The KOGAS spokesman declined to give further details. Woodside Petroleum, the operator of the North West Shelf joint venture was not immediately available for comment.

The arbitration relates to a difference over an agreed price renegotiation during a mid-term supply contract, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters, declining to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter.

South Korea imports most of its LNG through the country's sole LNG wholesaler KOGAS, which brings in over 30-31 million tonnes per year of LNG, mainly from Qatar and Australia.

(Reporting By Jane Chung in SEOUL, Henning Gloystein and Jessica Jaganathan in SINGAPORE; editing by Richard Pullin)* State-run KOGAS is world's 2nd-biggest buyer of LNG

* Australia has ambitions to become No.1 global LNG exporter

* Buyer pressure on LNG producers has increased in past years

* Buyers want more flexibility in long-term LNG contracts

* Case being heard at London arbitration court (Adds arbitration court details, PIX to slug)

By Jane Chung and Jessica Jaganathan

SEOUL/SINGAPORE, Feb 12 (Reuters) - South Korea's Korea Gas Corp has entered court-administered arbitration with Australian joint venture North West Shelf Gas seeking to settle a dispute over a liquefied natural gas (LNG) contract that expired in 2016.

A spokesman for the state-run Korean firm, known as KOGAS, confirmed an arbitration process was under way but declined to give details. Woodside Petroleum, operator of the North West Shelf venture, was not immediately available for comment.

The case, to be heard in a specialist arbitration court, will be closely watched by the booming global liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry. KOGAS is the world's second-biggest single buyer of LNG, and Australia has ambitions to overtake Qatar as the world's biggest exporter of the fuel.

The arbitration relates to a difference over price of a mid-term supply contract, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters. The person declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Saul Kavonic of energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie said it was "the first time in Asia" that an LNG buyer has resorted to taking an LNG price review negotiation to arbitration.

"Producers will be watching how the likes of the Chinese national oil companies, JERA (of Japan) and KOGAS choose to navigate upcoming price review opportunities, with large project value at stake," Kavonic said.

Two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said a London arbitration court was hearing the case.

South Korea imports most of its LNG via KOGAS, the country's sole LNG wholesaler. The firm brings in more than 30 million tonnes per year of the fuel, mainly from Qatar and Australia.

Story continues

Most of Asia's LNG is supplied via long-term contracts under which buyers receive monthly cargoes. If they cancel supplies, payment is still due under so-called "take-or-pay" clauses.

Additionally, "destination clauses" prevent buyers from selling LNG to third parties.

To protect buyers and sellers from sharp price swings, the LNG under most long-term contracts is linked to oil, which caps by how much the price for LNG can rise or fall.

But with Asian spot LNG prices (LNG-AS) down by half from a peak of more than $20 per million British thermal units (mmBtu) in early 2014, buyers have become restless and started demanding concessions.

In Japan, the world's biggest buyer of LNG, utilities have said they are unhappy with the terms from sellers, including Qatar and Malaysia.

In India, seen as a hotspot for LNG demand growth, GAIL has re-negotiated some prices with Russia's Gazprom .

There is precedent. Between 2008 and 2014, European utilities entered into dozens of cases at arbitration courts in Paris, London and Stockholm, most winning awards in their favour and freeing up natural gas volumes to be bought and sold on spot trading hubs.

More recently, Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) has been lobbying to become Asia's key LNG arbitration centre. Singapore is also trying to establish itself as Asia's LNG spot market hub.

Woodmac's Kavonic warned there were also risks for buyers: "Threats to renegotiate existing contracts now, outside of what is contractually permitted, will damage their (the buyers')reputation for contract sanctity and impede their ability to underpin new supply projects when they need to in the future." (Reporting By Jane Chung in SEOUL and Jessica Jaganathan in SINGAPORE Additional reporting by Sonali Paul in MELBOURNE Writing by Henning Gloystein Editing by Richard Pullin, Kenneth Maxwell and Tom Hogue)Bhandari, Shahi elected speakers of Province 1, 6

CPN-UML leaders Pradeep Kumar Bhandari and Raj Bahadur Shahi have been elected speakers of Province 1 and 6 respectively. They were elected unopposed as no other candidates filed nomination for the post on Sunday.The New York attorney general is objecting to the appointment of Weinstein Co. veteran David Glasser to be CEO of the company under new ownership.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman launched a civil rights investigation of the company last fall. The office has concerns that Glasser, who was COO under Harvey Weinstein, did nothing to protect employees from sexual abuses, a source told Variety, and would be the wrong person to lead the company.

An investor group backed by billionaire Ron Burkle has been negotiating to buy the troubled company for the last two weeks. The group, officially led by former Small Business Administration chief Maria Contreras-Sweet, was expected to seal a $500 million deal as soon as Sunday.

Schneidermans office has also raised questions about the investor groups proposal to establish a $20-30 million fund for Weinsteins victims. The office has questioned whether the fund amounts to anything beyond the Weinstein Co.s insurance coverage, which the insurers may try to avoid paying out.

The attorney generals reservations could create a serious obstacle as the Burkle-backed group seeks to finalize the sale. The office is expected to file a lawsuit imminently, as it seeks to block Glasser from taking the CEOs job and to establish a more robust plan for Weinsteins victims. The investor group has yet to respond to the attorney generals concerns.

Though she plans to change the name of the company, Contreras-Sweet intends to maintain the companys current operations, including keeping all 150 Weinstein Co. employees. Having Glasser in the top job could make for a smoother transition.

Glasser came to the Weinstein Co. in 2008, after working for Yari Film Group, and quickly became Harvey Weinsteins right-hand man. In October, Variety reported that Glasser had been denied a top executive job at DreamWorks Animation in 2015 owing to his checkered history of litigation. (Glasser denied that the offer was withdrawn.)

Story continues

The investor group is expected to pay $275 million in equity for the distressed company, and to assume $225 million in debt.

Related stories

Weinstein Company Bidding: Maria Contreras-Sweet Group Emerges as Leading Suitor

Weinstein Co. Closes Bidding Process as Offers Approach $500 Million

FCC Refuses to Turn Over Records to NY Attorney General in Net Neutrality Probe

Subscribe to Variety Newsletters and Email Alerts!New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman has filed a lawsuit against the Weinstein Company and its sibling founders, Harvey and Bob Weinstein, alleging that they committed egregious violations of New Yorks civil rights, human rights, and business laws.

In a statement announcing the lawsuit Sunday, Schneiderman said the Weinstein Co. repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation, and discrimination.

Harvey Weinstein, 65, was one of the most powerful and influential figures in Hollywood before being accused of sexual harassment and assault by dozens of women. He has denied all allegations of non-consensual sex, as well as claims that he retaliated against women who rebuffed him.

Weinstein was fired as co-chairman of his namesake studio in early October amid mounting allegations, and he resigned from the board shortly after.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Schneiderman said Sunday the lawsuit is the result of a four-month investigation that included interviews with multiple company employees, executives, and survivors of Harvey Weinsteins sexual misconduct, as well as an exhaustive review of company records and emails.

He added that any sale of the Weinstein Co. must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched.

The Weinstein Co. has been in talks to sell itself to a group of investors led by Maria Contreras-Sweet, a former Obama administration official, but the lawsuit has reportedly put such negotiations on hold.

Weinsteins attorney, Ben Brafman, responded to the lawsuit in a statement Sunday evening. We believe that a fair investigation by Mr. Schneiderman will demonstrate that many of the allegations against Harvey Weinstein are without merit, the statement said. While Mr. Weinsteins behavior was not without fault, there certainly was no criminality, and at the end of the inquiry it will be clear that Harvey Weinstein promoted more women to key executive positions than any other industry leader and there was zero discrimination at either Miramax or TWC.

Brafman concluded, If the purpose of the inquiry is to encourage reform throughout the film industry, Mr. Weinstein will embrace the investigation. If the purpose however is to scapegoat Mr. Weinstein, he will vigorously defend himself.

The boards statement added, With respect to the Companys ongoing sale process, the Board sought a transaction to preserve jobs and create a victim fund. Any suggestion that the Company or its Board somehow impeded or discouraged the buyers access to the New York Attorney General is simply untrue. Indeed, the Company and its Board actively encouraged the buyer to communicate with the Attorney General. The Company looks forward to continuing our discussions with the Attorney General in order to reach our common goal of bringing this situation to an appropriate resolution.oil

Atef Hassan/Reuters



West Texas Intermediate crude oil is back above $60 a barrel after last week's selloff sent below that level for the first time this year. WTI dipped to nearly $58 last week from a high of $66 on January 25, but Monday's gain of 1.76%, which came after OPEC said it expects higher oil demand this year, has the energy component trading at $60.09.

OPEC said the healthy world economy should provide the backdrop for faster-than-expected oil demand, Reuters reported. The cartel expects demand to rise by 1.59 million barrels per day in 2018, up by 60,000 barrels from its previous forecast.

However, the higher prices will also encourage non-member producers, such as the US, to pump more oil, contributing to a worldwide glut.

OPEC producers agreed to cut supply in November 2016 in order to reduce the glut that had accumulated over the previous two years. OPEC's production declined in January, the organization reported.

Meanwhile, OPEC expects non-OPEC producers to increase their supply by 1.4 million barrels this year. The organization maintained that the market will eventually "return to balance"by the end of the year.

Brent Crude, the international benchmark, was trading up 1.37% at $63.62.

West Texas Intermediate oil price

Markets Insider

NOW WATCH: Microsoft President Brad Smith says the US shouldn't get 'too isolationist'

See Also:By Reem Shamseddine

RIYADH (Reuters) - Saudi Arabian utility developer ACWA Power expects to submit tenders for projects this year worth $4.5 billion in Saudi Arabia and will also target projects in Morocco and the United Arab Emirates, its chief executive said.

ACWA Power CEO Paddy Padmanathan also confirmed the developer of electricity and water projects in the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia has shortlisted banks to arrange an initial public offering (IPO).

He declined to name the banks or give a timeframe for an IPO. The company is looking to sell a 30 percent stake to investors and list in Riyadh, banking sources have told Reuters. An IPO is expected by the end of the year.

"We are expecting to see a lot of projects here in Saudi. We are targeting 50 to 60 percent of the total," Padmanathan told Reuters in an interview at ACWA Power's headquarters in Riyadh.

Elsewhere, the company expects tenders for around $2.5 billion worth of projects in Morocco and $3.5 billion of projects in the United Arab Emirates.

Saudi Arabia wants to diversify its energy mix by using renewables, for example, and by partnering with the private sector. The ministry of energy's government renewable office plans to tender 3,200 megawatt (MW) of solar photovoltaic projects and 800 MW of wind projects.

ACWA will take part in the tender for a 400 MW wind plant in March, Padmanathan said, and will also tender for the Rabigh 3 desalination plant, which will have a capacity of 600,000 cubic meters and is expected to cost $800 million to $900 million.

Other projects expected to be tendered by the end of this year or early next year are a cogeneration plant for the Marjan oilfield and the Tanajib seawater plant for Saudi Aramco.

ACWA last week signed a contract to develop Saudi Arabia's first solar PV plant worth around $300 million. The plant will be built on a build, operate and own model with a 25-year agreement.

As the world's largest oil exporter increases electricity tariffs to market prices, Padhmanathan expects industrial consumers to shift to renewables as prices become more competitive.

Story continues

ACWA is also looking for M&A deals, he added, despite losing out on the chance to buy a number of power plants in the Philippines.

In Egypt, a memorandum of understanding for $14 billion of power plants has been put on the back-burner as the country prioritises other projects, but Padmanathan sees more renewable projects happening in the country. ACWA Power expects to soon finalise a power purchase agreement with Egyptian authorities for the Dairut gas-fired 2,400 MW plant.

Responding to concerns that sharemarket liquidity will be absored by Saudi Aramco's forthcoming IPO, Padmanathan said the two companies have a different investor base.

"Our business is about stable long term return. It is very attractive to a particular investor class, people who think about retiring, people who think about generating income steadily in 20 years, insurance, pension funds, family offices, so therefore we are not concerned."

(Reporting by Reem Shamseddine; editing by Richard Pullin)The U.S. is facing a massive retirement crisis thats so dire that even people with well-paying, full-time jobs arent guaranteed a comfortable and secure retirement anymore.

Thats why labor economist Teresa Ghilarducci, the head of the economics department at The New School, and Tony James, the president and COO of private equity giant Blackstone (BX), teamed up to create a plan to rescue the retirement system for the millennial and younger generations.

It is a plan for your generation, Ghilarducci said. It works best over a working lifetime. Even though we olds have not given the young a lot of gifts, you do have the gift of youth. And if you start saving now, you have to save just a lot less of your income than our friends, who have nothing, who have to save almost 50%. So, its a gift to mandate that you save on top of your Social Security.

In short, their plan is for a Guaranteed Retirement Account (GRA) that would be required for all workers without a pension plan, from an Uber driver to a company CEO. The workers and their employers would each contribute 1.5% of wages into these guaranteed accounts. For high-income workers, contributions are capped at $3,750, or 1.5% of a $250,000 salary. Employers are also only required to pay the 1.5% of the first $250,000 in wages. Workers and employers can contribute a higher percentage if they choose.

The plan would also create a new $600 federal tax credit for all savers, making it so someone earning $40,000 or less would see their contribution offset by the credit. Employers can also deduct their share of GRA contributions.

A list of approved asset managers would manage the guaranteed accounts and invest in longer-term strategies with a goal of generating pension-like returns. Upon retirement, the plans will pay out a lifelong annuity for the retiree and their spouse.

A broken system

Ghilarducci and James argue that the current system is broken and if it continues the U.S. should brace to see rates of poor senior citizens not seen since the Great Depression. They estimate that by 2050, nearly 25 million retirees will be in poverty or near-poverty.

Story continues

Nowadays, to sustain a comfortable and middle-class lifestyle in retirement, a retiree will need about $375,000 in savings. The reality is that most folks fall far short of that number. The median account balance for folks ages 40 to 45 is $14,500, about one-twentieth of whats needed, James points out.

The main problem with the current system is that people are on their own to cobble together a plan for a secure retirement. People are living longer and theyre saving less. Social Security and 401(K) plans arent enough.

Social Security used to provide 40% of what was needed to maintain middle-class lifestyle; now its in the 20s, James noted.

Blackstone COO Tony James and labor economist Teresa Ghilarducci have authored a plan to save the U.S. retirement system.

Another problem with the current voluntary system is that not everyone has a 401(K) plan. In fact, almost half of U.S. workers dont have one. And for those that do, they might not be participating, they contribute too little, or they pull out money too early. Plus, its paid out as a lump sum, so the retiree has to manage that money for the remainder of their life. With life expectancies increasing, that might not be enough.

So this is a problem that actually is getting worse and worse, James said. So the younger you are, if you will, the bigger the problem youll have out in the future. And like so many things in America its slowly unfolding. America is great at responding to crises, but these long slow incremental problems, we have a tendency to kind of keep kicking the can down the road and waiting until it is a crisis.

The problem is that the longer the U.S. waits, the more expensive it becomes to try to solve.

It wont just be costs in terms of deficits and higher taxes. Itll tear the social fabric of America apart, James said. The irony about that is if we focus on now and start worrying about your generation now with little bits and picks we can solve the problem in a very painless way.

Watch the full interview below:

Julia La Roche is a finance reporter at Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter.EC submits NA election results to president

The Election Commission on Sunday handed over the results of the National Assembly elections to President Bidya Devi Bhandari.* President says his Jerusalem move a "high point" of his term

* Ambassador to Israel's settlement tweets touch off controversy

By Dan Williams

JERUSALEM, Feb 9 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump told Israel on Friday that it too would need to make "significant compromises" for peace with the Palestinians, even as they accused one of his Middle East envoys of bogging down diplomacy with what they see as pro-Israel bias.

The Palestinians were outraged by Trump's Dec. 6 recognition of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital, a move overturning decades of U.S. reticence on the city's status, and say they are looking at additional world powers as potential mediators.

In an interview with an Israeli newspaper that was excerpted ahead of its full publication on Sunday, Trump described his Jerusalem move as a "high point" of his first year in office.

The language of Trump's announcement did not rule out a presence in Jerusalem for the Palestinians, who want the eastern part of the city - captured by Israel in a 1967 war and annexed in a move not recognised internationally - as their own capital.

"I wanted to make clear that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. Regarding specific borders, I will grant my support to what the two sides agree between themselves," he told the conservative Israel Hayom daily, in remarks published in Hebrew.

"I think that both sides will have to make significant compromises in order for achieving a peace deal to be possible," Trump added, without elaborating.

The interview coincided with fresh strains between the Palestinians and the U.S. ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, following the killing by a Palestinian of a Jewish settler.

After the settler was stabbed to death on Monday, Friedman tweeted that he had previously donated an ambulance to the slain man's community and that he was praying for the next-of-kin, adding: "Palestinian 'leaders' have praised the killer."

That drew a rebuke from the Palestinian administration.

Story continues

"The American ambassador's statements make us wonder about his relationship with the occupation," Nabil Abu Rdainah, a spokesman for President Mahmoud Abbas, said in a statement. "Is he representing America or Israel?"

"Friedman's recommendations and advice, which do not aim to achieve a just peace on the basis of international legitimacy, are what led to this crisis in American-Palestinian relations," Abu Rdainah said.

Friedman, among the top Trump advisers who promoted the Jerusalem move, is a former contributor to settler causes.

In addition to East Jerusalem, Palestinians want the occupied West Bank for a future state and see Israel's Jewish settlements there as a major obstacle. Israel disputes this.

Most world powers deem the settlements illegal, but the Trump administration has taken a softer tack.

A liberal Israeli newspaper, Haaretz, published a column criticising Friedman's stance and dubbing the settlement he had supported as "a mountain of curses" - a play on its Hebrew name, Har Bracha, which means "Mount Blessing".

The ambassador took the unusual step of firing back at the daily in another tweet on Friday: "Four young children are sitting shiva (Jewish mourning rite) for their murdered father .... Have they (Haaretz) no decency?"

Haaretz's publisher, Amos Shocken, responded over the platform with a critique that echoed Palestinian complaints.

"As long as the policy of Israel that your Government and yourself support is obstructing (the) peace process ... there will be more Shivas," Shocken tweeted. (Writing by Dan Williams, Editing by William Maclean)UPDATED: A deal to buy the troubled Weinstein Co. is in serious doubt as the New York attorney general has filed a civil rights lawsuit against the company.

An investor group led by Maria Contreras-Sweet has been in talks to buy the company for $500 million, including $225 million in assumed debt. The two sides have been huddled for days trying to complete the transaction with the hope of announcing it on Sunday or Monday.

But now Contreras-Sweets group has halted all work on the deal after New York Attorney General Eric Schneidermans office threw an eleventh-hour wrench into the process by raising concerns about David Glasser, the longtime Weinstein Co. executive slated to become CEO under the new investor group.

Glasser was a right-hand man to Harvey Weinstein, and the attorney generals office has come to believe that he failed to protect employees from Weinsteins sexual misconduct. The office has also raised concerns with the new ownership group about whether a proposed victims fund would provide adequate compensation. Sources close to the deal said the fund would be as much as $50 million or more, but the A.G.s office worried that there was no fund beyond the Weinstein Co.s insurance coverage.

The attorney generals office filed a lawsuit Sunday afternoon, alleging that the company facilitated Weinsteins abuses and seeking strict oversight of the companys employment practices. The investor group, backed by billionaire Ron Burkle, is said to have balked at the attorney generals oversight proposals. Given that the talks were so far along, Contreras-Sweet is described as stunned at the prospect of the attorney general putting up hurdles to implementing her vision of a largely female-led studio, out of the ashes of a company that has become synonymous with Hollywoods culture of abuse and silencing victims.

The attorney generals office first contacted Contreras-Sweet last week, but the Weinstein Co. board initially prevented her from returning the call due to a non-disclosure agreement, a source said. When Contreras-Sweet and her representatives finally got in touch with Schneidermans office over the weekend, and learned of the potential conditions, she became reluctant to move forward.

Story continues

The Contreras-Sweet group is also frustrated that they were unable to engage with Schneidermans office until this weekend. Sources close to the situation say Contreras-Sweet has yet to meet directly with prosecutors and there is no clarity on what the next steps are for both sides.

A spokeswoman for Schneidermans office said they were surprised that Contreras-Sweets group rebuffed the offer to negotiate.

We expressed to them how important it is that any deal adequately compensate victims, protect employees, and not reward those who enabled or perpetuated this egregious sexual misconduct, said spokeswoman Amy Spitalnick. We were surprised to learn they were not serious about discussing any of those issues or even sharing the most basic information about how they planned to address them.

According to a document reviewed by Variety, Schneidermans office sought extensive oversight over management hires and employment policies at the new company. The office was especially keen to have supervision over the companys sexual harassment policies, including provisions to ensure that complaints remain anonymous and do not result in retaliation. The office also wanted the company to release current and former employees from their non-disclosure agreements to facilitate further investigation.

The attorney generals proposals were presented as being open to negotiation. The Contreras-Sweet camp was regrouping on Sunday and hoping to find a path forward with Schneiderman in the coming days.

According to a source, the decision to retain Glasser as CEO and maintain other senior managers was made in the interest of ensuring that the studio would be able function during the transition period after a sale, while the board sorted out the companys long-term fate. In that context, Glassers position may well become a negotiating point for the group with the attorney general.

Glasser, however, was identified as a key person in the new companys senior management. And his support may well have influenced the Weinstein Co. board to select the Contreras-Sweet group instead of three rival bidders. Cutting him loose, in that case, may be harder than it appears.

Sources close to Contreras-Sweet also state that her bid includes money set aside for restitution to Harvey Weinsteins alleged victims, in addition to preserving the companys insurance policies that will also cover some liability. A bankruptcy process, which is inevitable for Weinstein Co. if a sale cannot be orchestrated soon, would make it harder for victims to receive compensation from the company.

There is a dispute, however, as to whether the victims fund actually goes beyond the insurance policies. Given the allegations that the Weinstein Co. was aware of Harvey Weinsteins abuses and failed to stop them, its also quite possible that insurers would balk at paying out claims.

The sale does not require Schneidermans approval, but the attorney generals lawsuit makes it a much more complicated undertaking. Schneidermans office appears unconvinced that the Burkle groups promises to revamp the company amount to anything more than window-dressing. The office asked for an independent monitor that would have authority to probe the company and report regularly on its progress.

The office also wanted to hold in escrow any portion of the sale proceeds that might go to Harvey Weinstein, as well as a portion of Bob Weinsteins share. The investor group has said that both Weinstein brothers will be wiped out in the deal.

Read the full lawsuit here.

Related stories

N.Y. Attorney General Suit Details Culture of 'Harassment and Intimidation' at Weinstein Co.

David Glasser's Leadership Abilities Questioned by N.Y. State Attorney

Will a Hollywood Outsider Bring Real Change to Weinstein Co.?

Subscribe to Variety Newsletters and Email Alerts!The Weinstein Companys future has been in doubt since late last year, when the first wave of allegations against Harvey Weinstein were made public. A number of potential buyers have emerged in the months since, including one involving indie stalwart and Killer Films co-founder Christine Vachon, but now Variety reports that the current frontrunner has hit a snag involving the New York attorney general.

Read More:The Kings Speech and The Artist Best Picture Oscars Currently Missing From the Weinstein Companys Offices  Report

Maria Contreras-Sweet is the head of an investor group that has been in negotiations to buy TWC for $500 million, which includes $225 million in assumed debt. Though the deal could have been made official as early as today, the fact that David Glasser  a former right-hand man of Weinsteins  would become CEO of the new entity has raised attention from AG Eric Schneiderman.

According to Variety, Schneidermans office has come to believe that [Glasser] failed to protect employees from Weinsteins sexual misconduct. The office has also raised concerns with the new ownership group about whether a proposed victims fund would provide adequate compensation.

Read More:The Weinstein Company Is Close to Being Sold for Less Than $500 Million

Schneiderman would reportedly require that certain conditions be met if this sale were to go through, which the investors group would likely object to.

Sign Up:Stay on top of the latest breaking film and TV news! Sign up for our Email Newsletters here.

Related stories

'The King's Speech' and 'The Artist' Best Picture Oscars Currently Missing From the Weinstein Company's Offices -- Report

The Weinstein Company Is Close to Being Sold for Less Than $500 Million

Harvey Weinstein and TWC Hit With Class-Action Lawsuit For 'Illegal Organized Enterprise' to Hide Sexual AssaultsNew York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said Monday that it is unacceptable for the new owners of the Weinstein Co. to maintain the previous management team, including David Glasser, who was expected to be named CEO.

In a press conference in Lower Manhattan, Schneiderman discussed the extensive allegations of sexual misconduct and corporate enabling detailed in the lawsuit his office filed on Sunday.

We have never seen anything as despicable as what weve seen right here, Schneiderman said.

The attorney generals lawsuit has thrown the pending sale of the company into doubt. A bid group backed by investor Ron Burkle and fronted by Maria Contreras-Sweet, the former head of the Small Business Administration, was expected to finalize terms on a $500 million acquisition on Sunday.

The investor group had promised to clean up the company by installing a female-majority board and putting in place a victims compensation fund. But in the press conference, Schneiderman argued that those promises were largely illusory.

The CEO was supposed to be David Glasser  not a female last time I checked, he said.

The lawsuit alleges that Glasser, as chief operating officer, had oversight of the human resources department at the Weinstein Co. The complaint alleges that numerous complaints of sexual misconduct against Harvey Weinstein were not properly handled, and that accusers were vulnerable to retaliation because complaints were forwarded to Weinstein.

The putting in charge of a newly configured company the same people who were involved in perpetuating for 12 years this pattern of misconduct, should be unacceptable to anyone who wants to reimagine the company, Schneiderman said.

The attorney generals office has sought to negotiate with the Contreras-Sweet group, but has not gotten very far. Schneiderman said that Contreras-Sweets lawyer called back and said, Why should we talk with you?

Story continues

It remains to be seen whether Contreras-Sweet would be willing to dispense with Glasser, which seems to be close to non-negotiable for the attorney general. Its also unclear if she would be able to change the terms of the deal to increase the amount allotted to victims of Weinsteins abuse, which might be a greater sticking point.

Related stories

Weinstein Responds to Lawsuit, Says He Feels Like a 'Scapegoat'

N.Y. Attorney General Suit Details Culture of 'Harassment and Intimidation' at Weinstein Co.

Weinstein Co. Sale in Doubt as N.Y. Attorney General Files Civil Rights Lawsuit

Subscribe to Variety Newsletters and Email Alerts!Film and Television Institute of India to train Nepali actors

In a first-ever initiative, the Government of India is sponsoring a 20-day course from February 12 to March 3 at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune for 20 leading Nepali actors and actresses.The law is finally coming for Harvey Weinstein. After four months of investigations, New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman is suing The Weinstein Company for its inability to protect staff from former boss Harvey Weinstein, who has been accused by both famous actresses as well as former and current staffers of verbal, physical and sexual misconduct.

In an official statement, the AGs office said, despite many complaints to TWCs human resources department and widespread knowledge across the companys leadership of HWs persistent misconduct, TWC executives and the Board repeatedly failed to take meaningful steps to protect company employees or curb HWs misconduct.

The misconduct that the suit alleges Weinsteins company was involved in includes: Berating and verbally harassing employees; threatening physical retaliation against staff; hiring a team of women whose sole job was to find women for their boss to have sexual contact with; instructing drivers for the company to keep condoms and erectile dysfunction drugs on hand at all times; telling some women that career advancement would come only if they had sexual contact with Weinstein.

The Weinstein Companys board of directors responded to the suit immediately, due in part to the fact that co is near finished a deal that would see new ownership lead by Maria Contreras-Sweet and Ron Burkle.

We are disappointed that the New York Attorney General felt it necessary to file todays complaint, the board said Monday. Many of the allegations relating to the Board are inaccurate and the Board looks forward to bringing the facts to light as part of its ongoing commitment to resolve this difficult situation in the most appropriate way.

With respect to the Companys ongoing sale process, the Board sought a transaction to preserve jobs and create a victim fund. Any suggestion that the Company or its Board somehow impeded or discouraged the buyers access to the New York Attorney General is simply untrue. Indeed, the Company and its Board actively encouraged the buyer to communicate with the Attorney General. The Company looks forward to continuing our discussions with the Attorney General in order to reach our common goal of bringing this situation to an appropriate resolution.

Story continues

AG Schneiderman has become quite the celeb in recent months after suing the federal government over net neutrality, working tirelessly to protect his states environment, suing Uber, and working to support victims of assault.

What do you think of Schneidermans case against TWC? Let us know @BritandCo!

(Photos via Drew Angerer/Getty +Alexander Koerner/Getty Images)

You Might Also LikeThe mountainous province of Badakhshan in northeastern Afghanistan evaded Taliban rule when the hard-line Islamist movement dominated the rest of the country in the 1990s.

Today, however, the Taliban control large swathes of rural Badakhshan. Their growing influence there is now prompting concerns that the province will become a bastion for regional terrorism because it borders Pakistan, China, and Tajikistan.

Abdul Wahab Majruh is among thousands of locals who fled their homes in Badakhshans remote northeastern Warduj district two years ago after it was captured by the Taliban and allied foreign fighters.

The 38-year-old schoolteacher, his wife, and their five children joined thousands of residents of Warduj and neighboring Yumgan districts to escape Taliban rule and seek shelter in the nearby district of Baharak. Insurgents have imposed harsh rules in the two districts in the name of implementing the Islamic Sharia law.

This is the third year that all of our schools [in Warduj] are closed by the insurgents, which forced more than 300 of our teachers to serve in other districts, Majruh told RFE/RLs Gandhara website. The militants collect one-tenth of wheat crops, walnuts, and other produce in the name of collecting an Islamic tax, Usher. They also frequently force villagers to feed them.

Mohammad Dawlat Khawar, the district governor of Warduj, now operates in Baharak. He says the closure of all 17 schools in Warduj is depriving some 11,000 students, including 5,000 girls, of an education. Thousands among the regions estimated 35,000 residents have left Warduj to evade Taliban rule, he maintains.

He says the insurgents have recreated a mini version of the Taliban emirate from the 1990s.

After capturing the region, they first collected all television sets to enforce a ban on watching it, and they banned women from going to the local bazaar without a male guardian, Khawar said. They have established roll calls at the mosques to know if any men are missing prayers.

Similar to the Talibans feared religious police, he says, an insurgent mullah now whips and beats locals if he deems them to be to committing a vice.

He says the presence of foreign fighters complicates the situation in Warduj. We are concerned that an estimated 200 foreign fighters are active. They include citizens of Uzbekistan, members of the Uighur Muslim minority from China, and citizens of Tajikistan, he said.

Warduj is located close to the Wakhan Corridor, a narrow strip of Afghan territory that extends to the Chinese border and prevents Pakistan and Tajikistan from sharing a land border. The region could be of interest to members of the East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM).

The organization has been loosely allied with factions of the Afghan and Pakistani Taliban during the past two decades and was declared a terrorist group by the United States and China.

Afghan officials see the ETIMs predominantly Uighur members as keen on infiltrating their neighboring homeland  Xinjiang region in northwestern China.

Gul Mohammad Baidar, the deputy provincial governor of Badakhshan, says foreign fighters including Uighurs are among the foreign militants active in Warduj, Yumgan, and parts of Jurm and Raghistan districts.

Most foreign fighter obey a man by the name of Mawlawi Furqan. The number of Uighurs is now over 50, but they are aiming high, he said. They want to increase their number and then move into China through the Wakhan Corridor.

Baidar says the Afghan government is committed to not allowing ETIM members to enter Xinjiang. We are vigorously fighting against them, he said.

Baidar says foreign militants infiltrated Badakhshan from neighboring Pakistan.

"When Pakistan launched an operation in North Waziristan [in 2014], the fighters poured into Keran-u-Menjan and from there to Khustak mainly through [the northwestern district of] Chitral in Pakistan, he noted. We also border the restive province of Nuristan, which in turn borders Kunar Province [to the east].

In a press release on February 8, the U.S. forces in Afghanistan said they had bombed Taliban and ETIM hideouts in Badakhshan.

U.S. strikes in Badakhshan Province destroyed Taliban training camps and other fighting positions. These training camps support terrorist operations inside Afghanistan as well as operations conducted by [the] ETIM in the border region with China and Tajikistan, the statement said. The U.S. strikes support Afghanistan in reassuring its neighbors that it is not a safe sanctuary for terrorists who want to carry out cross-border operations.

The statement added that ETIM militants pose a threat to China and enjoy support from the Taliban in Badakhshan and throughout the border region.

In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said they have no specific information about the issue.

He, however, said that fighting the ETIM was a "core counterterrorism concern" for Beijing. "Striking against terrorism is the responsibility of all countries in the world," he was quoted as saying by Reuters.

The Taliban have not commented on the situation in Badakhshan. It was not possible to independently verify the claims of warring sides in a remote Afghan frontline.

Lawmaker Mohammad Zakaria Sawda represents Badakhshan in the Afghan parliament. He says the militants are trying to turn Badakhshan into a stepping stone for proxy wars in the region.

But, he adds, no one is set to benefit from turmoil in Badakhshan.

Everyone -- factions and countries engaged in supporting terrorism --must know that the terrorists will eventually turn their guns against their sponsors, he said.Afghan officials say a Taliban attack has killed 16 members of a pro-government militia force in the southern province of Helmand.

The officials said a checkpoint belonging to the militiamen in Gareshk district was targeted during the night of February 10.

Some reports said a Taliban infiltrator who had worked with the militia for months turned his gun on the militiamen before fleeing with their guns and ammunition.

We know that a Taliban fighter killed 16 militiamen fighting alongside government forces, but who these forces belong to, we dont know yet," said Omar Zwak, spokesman for the provincial governor.

He added that an investigation was under way.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, with spokesman Qari Yusouf Ahmadi saying two Taliban fighters involved in the attack managed to escape.

The Western-backed government in Kabul has been struggling to fend off the Taliban and other militant groups since the withdrawal of most NATO troops in 2014.

After the pullback, Taliban fighters seized a sizable amount of territory, especially in Helmand, with local officials estimating that the extremists controlled some 85 percent of the poppy-growing province early last year.

In recent weeks, Kabul has been hit by several deadly assaults, including a massive suicide car bombing in a crowded central area on January 27 that killed more than 100 people and was claimed by the Taliban.

U.S. President Donald Trump in August unveiled his new strategy for the South Asia region, under which Washington has deployed 3,000 more troops to Afghanistan to train, advise, and assist local security forces, and to carry out counterterrorism missions.

The United States currently has around 14,000 uniformed personnel in the country.

Based on reporting by AP and ReutersVANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stamper Oil & Gas Corp. (TSX-V:STMP) (FSE:TMP2) (OTCQB:STMGF) (Stamper or the Company) is pleased to provide the following update on its operations in Sudan.



The Rawat C-10 well on Block 25 was drilled resulting in a discovery, proving up the economics of the well. It had impressive flow rates of 2,255 barrels per day (two thousand two hundred fifty five barrels) in two zones. The management believes that this discovery will add to the evaluated reserves previously announced in the (Chapman Reserves Evaluation Report) on January 23, 2018.

The Company has 35% working interest (W.I.) in the Block 25 prospect. The CAPEX obligation under the Exploration & Production Sharing Agreement (the EPSA) has already been fulfilled by the Sudanese operating company.

Discovery

The development well Rawat C-10 was drilled down to the Galhak sands of campanian age. Results from the drill stem tests (DST) within zones at 1,550m through 1,566m contributed to impressive oil flow rates of 2,065 barrels per day. A second test area in the Galhak sands at intervals tested 1,587m through 1,599m had oil flow rates of 190 barrels per day. Correlation between the wells RC5RC10RC6 clearly indicates prospective Galhak sands for forthcoming additional potential infill wells. Well logs of all correlating wells indicate additional multiple oil bearing zones to be tested on completion.

The discovery of development well Rawat C-10 and the high oil flow rates gives management more confidence and complements Stampers aggressive development strategy put forth in the Oil & Gas reserves and economics evaluation report (Chapman Reserves Evaluation Report) for Stamper on the Sudan development prospect under National Instrument 51-101 (NI 51-101).

Third party seismic interpretation within central basin shows potential Galhak sands run across the central sub basin at places formation thickness is recorded up to few hundred meters. Earlier test reports of drilled wells in Rawat central sub basin suggest flow rates range from 350 bbl/d to 1,741 bbl/d are significantly lower than new discovery well being reported.

David Greenway, Chief Executive Officer of Stamper Oil & Gas, commented, We are anticipating that we will receive an update from Chapman Petroleum Engineering on evaluated reserves shortly. We believe this will support the Companys execution plan for our Sudan assets and to deliver growth in net asset value per share for our shareholders.

Operating Block

Block 25 prospect is located in the White Nile State in the south eastern portion of the Republic of Sudan, adjacent the border with Republic of South Sudan. The land is arid and relatively flat. The area is sparsely populated and is located west of the White Nile. There is limited road system and agriculture in the area. The nearest major communities are Kosti and Rabak about 150 km north of the project area where there is a railway station, airport and a major sugar refinery. The Government of Sudan is anxious to develop its oil resources and the Company has the full support and assistance of the government.

Operating costs have been estimated to be $10,000 per well per month plus $8.00 stock tank barrels (STB) operation costs. It is estimated that transportation costs to a sales point will be $5.00/STB.

About Stamper Oil and Gas

Stamper Oil and Gas Corp. (TSX-V:STMP) is an independent international oil and gas company, engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of conventional oil and natural gas properties. The Company plans to identify and build out a portfolio of high-impact oil and gas prospects, with a focus on Africa. Stamper is committed to creating sustainable shareholder value by evaluating and developing future prospects into commercially viable assets.

For further information on Stamper Oil and Gas please visit www.stamperoilandgas.com

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Qamar M. Malik, MSc., Ph.D., Petroleum Engineering, who is a Qualified Person as such term is defined under National Instrument 51-101 (NI 51-101) and Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation (COGE) Handbook.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

David C. Greenway

President & Director

For further information, please contact:

Stamper Investor Relations

Phone: (604) 684-2401

Email: info@stamperoilandgas.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking" statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although Stamper Oil & Gas Corp. believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of Stamper Oil & Gas Corp. management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, Stamper Oil & Gas Corp undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.High-ranking representatives from international authorities around the world met with players in industry and research in Austria's capital earlier this month at this year's Vienna Cyber Security Week 2018 (VCSW). After its successful premiere last year, this year the conference also included a technology exhibition of products and services offered by international companies for the first time. This exhibition was organised by the Cyber Security Cluster Austria, a joint initiative of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (ASW, AW und FEEI), the Kuratorium Sicheres Osterreich (KSO), the security software specialist IKARUS and the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology.

Vienna, 12/2/2018 (OTS) - After the successful launch of the Vienna Cyber Security Week (VCSW) last year, this international dialogue platform has again positioned Vienna as a global centre for network security. Experts from industry and research working in the field of critical digital infrastructure security invited representatives from public authorities, governments and organisations to join them at this event. A total of 90 expert presentations and discussion groups as well as a technology exhibition and trainings provided the framework for examining how to protect our critical digital infrastructures from new crime & terrorism threat scenarios against critical energy infrastructure including security for smart cities.

Technology exhibition on cyber security

From 31st of to 2nd of February the conference also featured a cybersecurity technology exhibition - Training & Exhibition - at AIT, at which Austrian and international companies in industry and research showcased their portfolios. This gave the international conference participants the chance to discover leading-edge high-tech solutions and services and provided ample opportunity for networking. Exhibitors included: A1 Security Services, Advenica, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Antares-NetlogiX, Cryptas, Cyberbit, CyberTrap, Desoma, Energypact Foundation, HuemerIT, IKARUS, iQSol, MASS, RadarServices, SBA Research, SecureGUARD, Sezame, Synack, Timewarp, Wiener Stadtische, and X-Net.

The technology exhibition also featured special training sessions for the international guests. The AIT presented opportunities for advanced cyber security protection capabilities for critical infrastructures based on the AIT Cyber Range training and simulation platform. In addition, the IAEA presented concepts and backgrounds for policy making measures.

The technology exhibition was organised by the Cyber Security Cluster Austria for the first time, involving the joint efforts of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, the Kuratorium Sicheres Osterreich (KSO), the security software specialist IKARUS and the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology.

Reinhard Marak, CEO Defence & Security Industry, Austrian Federal Economic Chamber: "An early dialogue between the governmental demand side and the private entrepreneurs on the supply side is essential for the maintenance of this important strategic industry."

Alexander Janda, general secretary of KSO: "In the global competition for the best and most innovative answers to cyber security threats, Europe needs more technological sovereignty and competence. Know-how from Austria can make an important contribution to this. The AIT as a bridge between research and industry is a central actor."

Joe Pichlmayr, CEO of IKARUS Security Software, summarizes: "Smart cities are built by smart citizens - security is becoming more and more part of every critical success factor consideration. However, without sufficiently qualified security junior staff it will remain with just considerations. All the more urgent is the imperative not to leave the emergence of security excellence to chance, but to institutionalize it through targeted measures and programs!"

Helmut Leopold, Head of Center for Digital Safety & Security, AIT: "Austrian companies impressively presented their leading security technologies for the protection of critical infrastructures to an international audience. These technical solutions must now be placed in a context of international dialogue in order to effectively counter future global cyber threats."

This pioneering international multi-stakeholder conference and the integrated technology exhibition of the Cyber Security Cluster Austria have allowed Austria to strengthen its position as a high-tech cybersecurity location on the international scene.

Contact:

Michael Murling

Marketing and Communications

AIT Austrian Institute of Technology

Center for Digital Safety & Security

T +43 (0)50550-4126 | M +43 (0)664 2351747

michael.muerling@ait.ac.at | www.ait.ac.atAtlanta, IN, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Becks is pleased to announce the installation of two new solar energy systems at their headquarters in Atlanta, Ind. The power produced from the two, one-mega-watt systems will cover approximately 25 percent of Becks current electric costs and provide increased power efficiency for well over 30 years.

When you think about it, farmers are in the business of capturing sunlight and converting it to energy, said Sonny Beck, CEO of Becks. By installing solar panels, we are taking that concept and applying it to our business of producing seed. One of our goals as farmers is to be good stewards of our resources, and these new solar panels are another way we will be able to do that.

Becks partnered with Ag Technologies, Inc. of Rochester, Ind. to design and install the solar panel systems, which were completed in December of 2017. Each system is made up of 125 solar arrays and should produce approximately 1,600,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of power per year. The SolarWorld panels were made in Oregon and include cutting edge features like cell circuit wiring, corner drains, and PERK cell construction.

The solar panel systems also feature Ag Technologies patented SOLARCAM stand and lock system, which allows the solar angle of the panels to be more quickly adjusted for maximum efficiency. With SOLARCAM, the angle of each array can be changed in under one minute without compromising the strength of the panels.

Becks is the first seed company we have installed solar panels for so far, said Jim Straeter, founder of Ag Technologies, Inc. Working with the employees at Becks, and getting to know the Beck family, during this project has been great. There is truly a desire to be environmentally responsible at Becks, and we share that desire.

Duke Energy, Beck's, Ag Technologies, and Omni Electric worked together to install the most cost effective and efficient system possible. The systems were installed under Duke Energy's "Net Metering" program where the excess energy produced goes to the grid and is applied as a credit toward monthly electric statements. The entire system efficiency includes Enphase microinverters, which provide for internet-based monitoring at the panel level. This greatly simplifies maintenance and reduces costs over the lifetime of the system.

We have a long-term commitment to farmers and the local community, Beck added. This solar panel project will allow us to create renewable energy that will benefit both groups.

###

About Becks

Becks is a family-owned and operated seed company that serves farmers in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, Tennessee, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, eastern South Dakota, and southern Minnesota. According to a recent media survey, Becks ranks as the sixth largest seed company in the United States and the only one in the top six that is family-owned, making Becks the largest retail, family-owned seed company in the United States. To learn more about Becks, please visit www.beckshybrids.com. Follow Becks Hybrids on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BecksHybrids, like Becks Hybrids on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BecksHybrids, or visit the Becks Blog at www.beckshybrids.com/blog.

SOLARCAM is a registered trademark of Ag Technologies, Inc.

Attachments:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/74f03c69-a381-4c87-b428-a59dcb4299f0

Attachments:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f5a37bd2-92d1-4fe2-aaa3-4c5d74d9ba0badkikani wrote:

generis GMATNinjaTwo



Can experts please comment on using negation technique of D/A? Hi GMATNinja Can experts please comment on using negation technique of D/A?

Quote:

Although the school would receive financial benefits if it had soft drink vending machines in the cafeteria, we should not allow them. Allowing soft drink machines there would not be in our students' interest. If our students start drinking more soft drinks, they will be less healthy.



The argument depends on which of the following?



(A) If the soft drink vending machines were placed in the cafeteria, students would consume more soft drinks as a result.

(B) The amount of soft drinks that most students at the school currently drink is not detrimental to their health.

(C) Students are apt to be healthier if they do not drink soft drinks at all than if they just drink small amounts occasionally.

(D) Students will not simply bring soft drinks from home if the soft drink vending machines are not placed in the cafeteria.

(E) The school's primary concern should be to promote good health among its students.

more

increase

The author concludes that "allowing soft drink machines in the school cafeteria would not be in the students' interest. Why not? Because if the students start drinkingsoft drinks, they will be less healthy.In order for the argument to hold, we need to assume that students will drink MORE soft drinks if the machines are added. In other words, the argument tells us that student health is negatively affected by an increase in soft drink consumption. But we don't know whether adding the machines will actuallysoft drink consumption.This represents a gap in the logic. What if students will drink the same amount if the machines are installed? In that case, adding the machines would have no impact on the students' health, and the argument would fall apart.Choice (A) eliminates this possibility and fills the gap. If we negate (A), then students might not drink more soft drinks when the machines are added. In that case, the argument is not valid.As for choice (D), let's say that the students WILL bring soft drinks from home if the soft drink vending machines are not placed in the cafeteria. At first glance, this might seem to impact the argument. If the machines aren't there, the students will simply bring soft drinks from home.But choice (D) doesn't tell us anything about the QUANTITY of soda that is consumed in each case. For example, without the machines, a student might bring one soft drink bottle from home every day. WITH the machines, that student might purchase TWO soft drink bottles every day. Adding the machines increases that student's soft drink consumption even though choice (D) is not true. Negating (D) does not necessarily affect the argument, so (D) should be eliminated.(A) is the best answer._________________Re: Current rules regarding investment of state employee pension funds req [ #permalink

Current rules regarding investment of state employee pension funds require money managers either to sell at stock in companies that market tobacco products by the end of the year or that they file a timetable for doing so within the next six months.



A. that they file

B. file

C. be filing

D. they should file

E. to file



If we cut down the fluff the sentence looks like this: "Current rules require mangers either to sell or [answer choice] a timetable within the next six months".

In order to maintain parallelism we need to find an answer that is parallel to "either to sell or". Thus, we need an infinitive, which we find in "to file" (answer choice E).



Therefore, E) is the correct answer.100% pure New Zealand

Thats the longest running national tourism slogan, according to research by the author of the Banyan column in the widely circulated The Economist magazine based out of Great Britain.

These days, the slogan has even more meaning as tourism dollars supplanted dairy as the nations largest export. Dominic Ziegler, author of the Banyan column, points out that New Zealands tourism traffic has jumped from 2.7 to 3.6 million visitors annually during a five-year window. Thats a lot of tourists considering that New Zealand has only 4.7 million citizens.

Ziegler goes on to estimate that tourism brings $14.5 billion to the country or $3,000 for every citizen. With that additional tourism revenue, tourism has moved past dairy for New Zealands largest export earner, Ziegler reported in his article, A clean and pleasant land.

More people, more issues

Presenting that 100% pure New Zealand image is getting a bit more difficult. For starters, with the sheer number of visitors, New Zealands countryside has been getting hammered, wrote Ziegler. The second issue comes from the back end of the cow.

In one way, New Zealands pristine image has also boosted the dairy industry, wrote Ziegler. Many Chinese consumers, in particular, choose Kiwi infant formula over domestic brands, which they fear will be contaminated. And these days Chinese tourists have doubled to 400,000 annually compared to just five years earlier . . . when tying the topics of dairy and tourism back together.

However, dairys growth has caused environmental concerns among its citizens to skyrocket.

One objection is fragile landscapes ravaged to make way for cows . . . wrote Ziegler. Indeed, water gets to the heart of New Zealanders concerns. Dairy cattle need a lot of it and produce copious excrement and urine in return.

Its clear that the New Zealand dairy and tourism industries will need to find ways to co-exist. To learn more, read A clean and pleasant land.





To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2018

January 15, 2018Nabil Bank launches QR code payment

Nabil Bank is looking to shake the payment industry in Nepal with the launch of Union Pay International QR Code Acquiring service. Merchants on the banks network will be able to process payments.Ottawa, Feb 12 (IBNS): Former Canadian soldiers have camped out in Ottawa and is also scheduled to stage a protest against the federal government's ill-treatment of the veterans, media reports said.

Trevor Sanderson and Dick Groot flew down from Winnipeg on Friday and erected a camp outside the veterans memorial buildings in downtown Ottawa.

The veterans are trying to draw attentions of the government.

The former soldiers will continue the protest until Thursday, when a large protest will take place on the Parliament Hill.

Sanderson feels Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will hear their grievances.

"We're not asking for a lot. We're only asking to feel normal again" Sanderson told CBC News.

Groot said: "We want to go back to being human."

"When I did go to the system, everything went crazy" he told CBC News.

Early this month, Trudeau had faced tough questions during a public interaction in Edmonton where a former soldier had vented out his anger against the federal government.

A former soldier, who had lost a leg in Afghanistan, vented out his anger against the federal government's changes in pensions of the disabled people.

"I was prepared to be killed in action. What I wasnt prepared for, Mr. Prime Minister, is Canada turning its back on me" Brock Blaszczyk said.

Trudeau, keeping his cool, said the soldier's frustration and anger are justifiable.

Defending his government, Trudeau said the shift has changed from lump payments to long term benefits.

"We have significantly invested in services, rehabilitation support, investments in training and support for caregivers and families" Trudeau was quoted by Toronto Star.

"Why are we still fighting against certain veterans groups in court? Because they are asking for more than we are able to give right now, the PM added.Lets explore those ten areas in more detail.

1. Fundamental freedoms and rights

Maryam Rajavi believes that all Iranian women should have equal human rights and fundamental freedoms to Iranian men and that discrimination of any type against women must be abolished. Women will then be equal to men in all economic, social and political spheres.

Maryam Rajavi wrote: [In a Free Iran,] women are free to choose their place of residence, occupation, and education. They must have the opportunity to travel freely, have the right to freely choose their clothing and spouse, and have the right to leave the country, to obtain foreign citizenship, to devolve citizenship to their children, to divorce, and to obtain custody and guardianship over children.

2. Equality before the law

Maryam Rajavi believes that women should have the same protections under the laws in Iran as men, including equal rights before the courts.

This would mean that the raising of the criminal age of responsibility for girls in Iran to 18, that testimonies and affidavits from women before a court would hold equal weight to those from men, and that women would have access to guaranteed judicial recourse in the face of violence, rape (and sexual assault), discrimination and deprivation of liberty.

3. Freedom of choosing ones own clothing

Maryam Rajavi believes that women should be free to choose their own clothing and that the government should not be allowed to interfere in this freedom.

Therefore, Maryam Rajavi would repeal the law mandating forced veiling and any employment laws that allow workplaces to sanction women who do not wear the hijab.

Maryam Rajavi wrote: Written or unwritten laws on controlling the clothing or behaviour of women under the rubric of mal-veiling, which have violated Iranian womens right to freedom and security, shall have no place in tomorrows Iran.

4. Equal participation in political leadership

Maryam Rajavi believes that women should have equal rights to participate in the countrys political leadership,A including the formulation and implementation of government policy, the holding of public office, and the ability to perform all public functions at all levels of government.

Maryam Rajavi believes that any laws that place bans or limitations on women occupying senior posts in the government and the judiciary. Maryam Rajavi also believes that in order to dispense with inequalities the government must appoint women to at least half of its posts and political parties must choose women for at least half of their candidates in any one election cycle.

This is something that the NCRI are already using in their parliament-in-exile.

5. Equality in the economic sphere

Maryam Rajavi believes that women should have equal economic rights to men, which includes equal opportunities in the job market, equal pay and equal employment rights with men.

Maryam Rajavi believes that women should also enjoy equal access to men in terms of inheritance, entering contracts, and management of property.

6. Equality in the family

Maryam Rajavi believes that women should be able to have equal rights in family life, meaning that they can freely choose to marry or divorce and will have equal responsibilities over child-rearing.

This means that women will not be allowed to marry before the legal age, that coercion of women into marriage will be banned and that polygamy will be banned.

It also means that women will have the right to obtain custody of their children and that the employment of children will be banned.

Maryam Rajavi insists that any governmental interference into the private lives of women will be banned.

7. Prohibition of violence

Maryam Rajavi set out the banning of the death penalty and torture in her ten-point plan for a Free Iran, but she also wants to see the prohibition of offensive and degrading treatment of women.

This would include making rape and various other forms of violence against women illegal in all instances as well as criminalising acts of intimidation or forcible deprivation of womens freedoms.

8. Prohibition of sexual exploitation

Maryam Rajavi also believes that women should be protected from sexual exploitation and as such would ban the sex trade and make the trafficking of women and/or forcing women into prostitution illegal. Maryam Rajavi also wants to prosecute anyone committing sexual crimes against a child.

Maryam Rajavi said: Any form of sexual exploitation of women under any pretext shall be prohibited and all customs, laws and regulations which allow the parents, guardian or a third party related to a girl or woman to give away the latter to another party for sexual pleasure or exploitation under the pretext of marriage or anything else shall be annulled.

9. Repealing Mullahs Sharia laws

Maryam Rajavi has already mentioned that she would remove the mullahs Sharia laws in her ten-point plan for a Free Iran. This is necessary to the rights of women because of the sexist law that it enshrines, such as punishments of stoning and allowing crimes against women.

10. Social benefits

Maryam Rajavi believes that women must have equal access with men to social benefits relating to retirement, unemployment, old age and other forms of disability, and that the depriving of any women- even those hired under temporary contracts- of these benefits will be banned.

Additionally, Maryam Rajavi believes that women have the right to maternity leave and to access medical and nutrition services for free during this time. These women should not be fired, have their wages reduced, or be required to do dangerous jobs during this period

Maryam Rajavi believes that the government should also provide for the nursery and day care requirements of working women and also help support single women to provide for their families.

Maryam Rajavi also believes that women in marginalised groups (ethnic or religious minorities, refugees, immigrants, those from rural areas, prisoners, the young, the disabled, the elderly) should be given special financial, educational and medical support from the government.The Iranian Regimes regional aggression has also been criticised by the Iranian people during their ongoing nationwide anti-regime protests, and the MEK are advising that the international community back the protesters calls for regime change in order to avoid Iran starting another war in the Middle East.

MEK representative Shahin Gobadi said: The regimes warmongering and belligerence is a major source of concern and tension in the region that can lead to a major war. But it can be averted. Years of policy of appeasement by Western governments emboldened the Iranian regime. The overthrow of the Iranian regime and establishment of peace and democracy in Iran would have a lasting impact in establishment of peace and tranquillity in the region.

The area is on the edge of all-out war, as tension rise between Iran and its neighbours over Irans support for terrorism and proxy militias.

Indeed, Iran has tens of thousands of fighters in Syria, where they have spent $100 billion propping up the Assad Regime since 2011, is in direct conflict with Saudi Arabia over Iran-backed terrorist groups in Lebanon and Yemen, and is at odds with Israel after the downing of an Israeli fighter jet.

Gobadi said: Export of terrorism and Islamic extremism, including warmongering and meddling in the region, has been a strategic pillar of survival of the regime and a cover for its domestic repression. Syria has been the lynchpin of this policy.

Protests

The popular peoples protest has featured slogans such as no to Syria and think about us as the Iranian people call on the mullahs to end their foreign wars and return the money to the public purse.

The protests, which began over a draft budget that slashed subsidies for the poor in favour of additional military spending, have spread to 142 cities and morphed into a protest against everything wrong with the Regime.

The protesters, recognising that the Iranian Regime isnt listening to their cries, have gone so far as to call for the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, an offence punishable by death in Iran.

So far, at least 50 protesters have been killed in the streets, 8,000 arrested, and 12 have died under torture.

The Iranian Regime, desperate to portray itself as stable and popular, has organised pro-regime demonstrations to retaliate against the peoples protest and in honour of the 39th anniversary of the Iranian Regime, in which paid actors will burn the US flag.

This is nothing new. Iran has been doing this for years in order to make it seem as if the Iranian people are in favour of the Regime and deter the international community from acting. Still, revolution is in the air.

Gobadi made this call for the West to support to the protesters ahead of a meeting in Paris on Friday, in which representatives from 11 European countries will back the protesters.

Gobadi said: The wall of fear has been cracked, and nothing including arrests, killings and torture can prevent the advancement of the protests to overthrow the regime. The regimes own officials repeatedly talk about super challenges facing their regime and precarious prospects that loom on the horizon. After 39 years of rule, the clerical regime has never closer than being overthrown by the people than today.The Kurenivsko-Chervonoarmiyska metro line was renamed Obolonsko-Teremkivska.

Kyiv City Council last week ruled that Petrivka subway station should be renamed Pochaina in accordance with the name of the ancient Pochaina river, which is one of the city's oldest.

The relevant decision was backed by 70 out of 86 council members, according to an UNIAN correspondent.

Read alsoKyiv Metro subway offers Musk to put Tesla at world's deepest Arsenalna stationPublic debates on the renaming of Petrivka took place from March 1 to May 1, 2017. Some 1,932 people participated in the voting, and 73% supported the renaming.

Some historians consider Pochaina to be the river in which the people of Kyiv were baptized when Volodymyr the Great introduced Christianity as the Kyivan Rus' new religion in the 10th century, according to Kyiv Post.

In the case of Petrivka station, its name had to be changed in line with the decommunization policy because it was named after Hrigory Petrovsky, a prominent Bolshevik, who used to be the head of Ukrainian Soviet Republic's legislative, administrative, executive body called Central Executive Committee, it said.

The Kurenivsko-Chervonoarmiyska metro line was also renamed; its new name is Obolonsko-Teremkivska.

Public discussions on renaming the subway line took place from May 29 to July 29, 2017. Some 80% of the participants voted for the initiative.Ecuador: The Costa Rica-based Inter-American Court of Human Rights (Corte-IDH) has rejected a request for precautionary measures against Ecuador, made by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). On 4 February, over 13m Ecuadoreans voted in a national plebisicite, which contained seven questions, one of which concerned the restructuring of the council of citizen participation and social control (CPCCS), a body with the constitutional power to appoint the highest authorities of control and transparency in the state. The electorate voted 'yes' to all seven questions. The IACHR aimed to block the propsoed restructuring of the CPCCS, which would remove current members and create a transitional council, arguing that it may conflict with democracy. The Corte-IDH has overruled the IACHRs request, with four votes in favour and two against, but also reminded Ecuador of its obligation to comply with the American Convention on Human Rights. Via his official Twitter, Ecuador's President Lenin Moreno declared the decision a "triumph for the rights and will of the Ecuadorean people".Nepal-India air routes plan fails to take off

Four-and-a-half years have already passed since Nepal and India decided to hold talks on opening new air routes, but developments so far have not been fruitful, highlighting flaws in Nepals aviation diplomacy.A painting of a Nigerian princess that was lost for more than 40 years has been found in England. It will be sold at the end of February.

Nigerias best-known modern artist, Ben Enwonwu, painted the work. It is called Tutu.

The painting will be offered to buyers at a public auction in London. The company organizing the auction says the event will be shown in Lagos on a special video feed. That way, Nigerian art lovers in the countrys largest city can make offers for the painting.

History of the painting

Enwonwu painted Tutu in 1974. It appeared at an art show in Lagos the following year. But there are no records of what happened to the painting after that, until it reappeared in north London.

The subject in the artwork is a Nigerian princess named Adetutu Ademiluyi. She was a granddaughter of a traditional ruler from the Yoruba ethnic group. In Nigeria, the painting came to represent a sign of national reconciliation after the Biafran War. The conflict lasted from 1967 to 1970.

Enwonwu belonged to the Igbo, the largest ethnic group in southeastern Nigeria. The Igbo attempted to break away from rest of the country under the name of Biafra. The Yoruba people, whose homeland is in the southwest, were mostly on the opposing side in the war.

Enwonwu made three versions of the painting. The other two remain lost. However, prints first made in the 1970s have been on display ever since. The images are familiar to many Nigerians.

Enwonwu died in 1994. His son, Oliver Enwonwu, is president of the Society of Nigerian Artists.

This is a very significant discovery, given my fathers contribution to Nigerian art and African art, he told the Reuters news agency.

Discovery in London home

Giles Peppiatt, an expert on modern African art, identified the painting. He works for the London auction house Bonhams.

Peppiatt said it was a shock to him to find the painting hanging in a north London home where he was called to examine it. The owners did not wish to be identified, he said.

In the past, Peppiatt noted, he has gone looking for the three paintings, but did not find them.

The auction will take place on February 28. Bonhams expects the final sale price of Tutu to be anywhere from $275,000 to $400,000.

We are quite hopeful about it because the market for Nigerian modern art is really strong at the moment. Ive been in the market for 12 years and its as strong as Ive ever known it, Peppiatt told Reuters.

One of the issues in setting up a live auction connecting London and Lagos could be the Nigerian citys power supplies. Power outages are a problem in Lagos, and they often affect internet connections.

Peppiatt is hoping for no problems on the day of the sale. Its the first time anyone has done it (such an auction) so that will be rather exciting, he said.

I'm Phil Dierking.

Estelle Shirbon and Alexis Akwagyiram reported this story for the Reuters news agency. George Grow adapted their report for VOA Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.

______________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

auction  n. a sale of something to the person offering the most money

reconciliation  n. the act of becoming friendly again

display  n. an event in which something is shown to people

contribution  n. payment for a share of something59 minutes ago

Are You Creditworthy? A Look at What Your Lender Sees (and Does Investing Affect Your Credit?)

If you're thinking about getting a loan for something like a house, a car or another type of loan, you might wonder what your lender sees when they take a look at your creditworthiness. You want to have every advantage at your disposal, particularly in the face of what's going on in the housing market right now.

Read Article American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2021. All rights reserved.

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 2021 Market data provided is at least 10-minutes delayed and hosted by Barchart Solutions. Information is provided 'as-is' and solely for informational purposes, not for trading purposes or advice, and is delayed. To see all exchange delays and terms of use please see disclaimer. Fundamental company data provided by Zacks Investment Research.Nepal-India passenger railway to resume in Oct

The long-awaited cross-border passenger railway service from Bardibas of Nepal to Jaynagar of India, which stretches 69 km, will finally come into operation in October.The Bank of Nova Scotia provides various banking products and services in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Colombia, the Caribbean and Central America, and internationally. It operates through Canadian Banking, International Banking, Global Banking and Markets, and Global Wealth Management segments. The company offers financial advice and solutions, and day-to-day banking products, including debit and credit cards, chequing and saving accounts, investments, mortgages, loans, and insurance to individuals; and business banking solutions comprising lending, deposit, cash management, and trade finance solutions to small businesses and commercial customers, including automotive financing solutions to dealers and their customers. It also provides wealth management advice and solutions, including online brokerage, mobile investment, full-service brokerage, trust, private banking, and private investment counsel services; and retail mutual funds, exchange traded funds, liquid alternative funds, and institutional funds. In addition, the company offers international banking services for retail, corporate, and commercial customers; and lending and transaction, investment banking advisory, and capital markets access services to corporate customers. Further, it provides Internet, mobile, and telephone banking services. The company operates a network of 952 branches and approximately 3,540 automated banking machines in Canada; and approximately 1,400 branches, 5,200 ATMs, and 22 contact centers internationally. The Bank of Nova Scotia was founded in 1832 and is headquartered in Halifax, Canada.

Read MoreLincoln National Corp. is a holding company, which operates multiple insurance and retirement businesses through its subsidiary companies. It provides advice and solutions that help empower people to take charge of their financial lives with confidence and optimism. The company operates through the following segments: Annuities, Retirement Plan Services, Life Insurance, Group Protection, and Other Operations. The Annuities segment provides tax-deferred investment growth and lifetime income opportunities for its clients by offering fixed and variable annuities. The Retirement Plan Services segment includes employers with retirement plan products and services, primarily in the defined contribution retirement plan marketplaces. The Life Insurance segment focuses on the creation and protection of wealth for its clients by providing life insurance products, including term insurance, both single and survivorship versions of universal life insurance, variable universal life insurance, and indexed universal life insurance products. The Group Protection segment offers group non-medical insurance products, which includes term life, disability, dental, vision and accident and critical illness

Read MoreCenovus Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas in Canada, the United States and the Asia Pacific region. The company operates through Oil Sands, Conventional, and Refining and Marketing segments. The Oil Sands segment develops and produces bitumen in northeast Alberta. Its bitumen assets include Foster Creek, Christina Lake, and Narrows Lake, as well as other projects in the early stages of development. The Conventional segment holds assets primarily located in Elmworth-Wapiti, Kaybob-Edson, and Clearwater operating areas of British Columbia and Alberta, as well as various interests in natural gas processing facilities. The Refining and Marketing segment transports and sells crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs. This segment owns a 50% ownership in Wood River and Borger refineries located in the United States; and owns and operates a crude-by-rail terminal in Alberta. Cenovus Energy Inc. was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

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At a time when the Madhes-based parties are claiming that amendment to the constitution would be their major agenda, CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli claimed on Sunday that everyone had accepted the new constitution.The following companies are subsidiares of The Procter & Gamble: "Procter & Gamble Services" LLC, "Procter & Gamble" LLC, Agile Pursuits, Agile Pursuits Franchising, Arbora, Arbora & Ausonia, Arborinvest, Billie, Braun (Shanghai) Co., Braun GmbH, Braun-Gillette Immobilien GmbH & Co. KG, Celtic Insurance Company, Compania Procter & Gamble Mexico, Compania Quimica S.A., Corporativo Procter & Gamble, Cosmetic Products Pty. Ltd., Detergent Products B.V., Detergent Products SARL, Detergenti S.A., Eurocos Cosmetic GmbH, FPG Oleochemicals Sdn. 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Ltd., P&G K.K., P&G Northeast Asia Pte. Ltd., P&G Prestige Godo Kaisha, P&G Prestige Service GmbH, P&G South African Trading (Pty.) Ltd., PGT Health Care (Zhejiang) Limited, PGT Healthcare LLP, PPI ZAO, PT Procter & Gamble Home Products Indonesia, PT Procter & Gamble Operations Indonesia, Phase II Holdings Corporation, Procter & Gamble (Chengdu) Ltd., Procter & Gamble (China) Ltd., Procter & Gamble (China) Sales Co. Ltd., Procter & Gamble (East Africa) Limited, Procter & Gamble (Egypt) Manufacturing Company, Procter & Gamble (Enterprise Fund) Limited, Procter & Gamble (Guangzhou) Consumer Products Co. Ltd., Procter & Gamble (Guangzhou) Enterprise Management Service Company Limited, Procter & Gamble (Guangzhou) Ltd., Procter & Gamble (Health & Beauty Care) Limited, Procter & Gamble (Jiangsu) Ltd. China, Procter & Gamble (L&CP) Limited, Procter & Gamble (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Procter & Gamble (Manufacturing) Ireland Limited, Procter & Gamble (Shanghai) International Trade Company Ltd., Procter & Gamble (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Procter & Gamble Acquisition GmbH, Procter & Gamble Administration GmbH, Procter & Gamble Algeria EURL, Procter & Gamble Amazon Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Amiens S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Argentina SRL, Procter & Gamble Asia Pte. Ltd., Procter & Gamble Australia Proprietary Limited, Procter & Gamble Azerbaijan Services LLC, Procter & Gamble Bangladesh Private Ltd., Procter & Gamble Blois S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Brazil Holdings B.V., Procter & Gamble Bulgaria EOOD, Procter & Gamble Business Services Canada Company, Procter & Gamble Canada Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Chile , Procter & Gamble Chile Limitada, Procter & Gamble Colombia Ltda., Procter & Gamble Commercial LLC, Procter & Gamble Commercial de Cuba S.A., Procter & Gamble Czech Republic s.r.o., Procter & Gamble DS Polska Sp. z o.o., Procter & Gamble Danmark ApS, Procter & Gamble Detergent (Beijing) Ltd., Procter & Gamble Deuttschland GmbH, Procter & Gamble Distributing (Philippines) Inc., Procter & Gamble Distributing New Zealand Limited, Procter & Gamble Distribution Company (Europe) BVBA, Procter & Gamble Distribution S.R.L., Procter & Gamble Eastern Europe, Procter & Gamble Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Procter & Gamble Egypt, Procter & Gamble Egypt Distribution, Procter & Gamble Egypt Holding, Procter & Gamble Egypt Supplies, Procter & Gamble Energy Company LLC, Procter & Gamble Espana, Procter & Gamble Europe SA, Procter & Gamble Export Operations SARL, Procter & Gamble Exportadora e Importadora Ltda., Procter & Gamble Exports, Procter & Gamble Fabricacao e Comercio Ltda., Procter & Gamble Far East, Procter & Gamble Finance (U.K.) Ltd., Procter & Gamble Finance Holding Ltd., Procter & Gamble Finance Management S.a.r.l., Procter & Gamble Financial Investments LLP, Procter & Gamble Financial Services Ltd., Procter & Gamble Financial Services S.a.r.l., Procter & Gamble Finland OY, Procter & Gamble France S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Germany GmbH, Procter & Gamble Germany GmbH & Co. Operations oHG, Procter & Gamble GmbH, Procter & Gamble Grundstucks-und Vermogensverwaltungs GmbH & Co. KG, Procter & Gamble Gulf FZE, Procter & Gamble Hair Care, Procter & Gamble Hellas Ltd., Procter & Gamble Holding (Thailand) Limited, Procter & Gamble Holding France S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Holding GmbH, Procter & Gamble Holding S.r.l., Procter & Gamble Holdings (UK) Ltd., Procter & Gamble Home Products Private Limited, Procter & Gamble Hong Kong Limited, Procter & Gamble Hungary Wholesale Trading Partnership (KKT), Procter & Gamble Hygiene & Health Care Limited, Procter & Gamble Inc., Procter & Gamble India Holdings, Procter & Gamble Indochina Limited Company, Procter & Gamble Industrial - 2012 C.A., Procter & Gamble Industrial Colombia Ltda., Procter & Gamble Industrial S.C.A., Procter & Gamble Industrial e Comercial Ltda., Procter & Gamble Interamericas de Costa Rica, Procter & Gamble Interamericas de Guatemala, Procter & Gamble Interamericas de Panama, Procter & Gamble International Operations Pte. Ltd., Procter & Gamble International Operations SA, Procter & Gamble International Operations SA-ROHQ, Procter & Gamble International S.a.r.l., Procter & Gamble Investment Company (UK) Ltd., Procter & Gamble Investment GmbH, Procter & Gamble Italia, Procter & Gamble Japan K.K., Procter & Gamble Kazakhstan Distribution LLP, Procter & Gamble Kazakhstan LLP, Procter & Gamble Korea, Procter & Gamble Korea S&D Co., Procter & Gamble Lanka Private Ltd. Sri Lanka, Procter & Gamble Leasing LLC, Procter & Gamble Levant S.A.L., Procter & Gamble Limited, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing (Thailand) Limited, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Belgium N.V., Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Berlin GmbH, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing GmbH, Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Procter & Gamble Manufacturing SA (Pty) Ltd, Procter & Gamble Marketing Romania SRL, Procter & Gamble Marketing and Services doo, Procter & Gamble Maroc SA, Procter & Gamble Mataro, Procter & Gamble Mexico Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Mexico Inc., Procter & Gamble Middle East FZE, Procter & Gamble Nederland B.V., Procter & Gamble Netherlands Investments B.V., Procter & Gamble Netherlands Services B.V., Procter & Gamble Nigeria Limited, Procter & Gamble Nordic, Procter & Gamble Norge AS, Procter & Gamble Operations Polska Sp. z o.o., Procter & Gamble Overseas India B.V., Procter & Gamble Overseas Ltd., Procter & Gamble Pakistan (Private) Limited, Procter & Gamble Partnership LLP, Procter & Gamble Peru S.R.L., Procter & Gamble Pharmaceuticals France SAS, Procter & Gamble Philippines, Procter & Gamble Polska Sp. z o.o, Procter & Gamble Portugal - Produtos De Consumo, Procter & Gamble Product Supply (U.K.) Limited U.K., Procter & Gamble Production GmbH, Procter & Gamble Productions, Procter & Gamble Productos de Consumo, Procter & Gamble RHD, Procter & Gamble RSC Regional Service Company Ltd., Procter & Gamble Retail Services BVBA, Procter & Gamble S.r.l., Procter & Gamble SA (Pty) Ltd, Procter & Gamble Satis ve Dagitim Ltd. Sti., Procter & Gamble Seine S.A.S., Procter & Gamble Service GmbH, Procter & Gamble Services (Switzerland) SA, Procter & Gamble Services Company N.V., Procter & Gamble Services Ltd., Procter & Gamble Share Incentive Plan Trustee Ltd., Procter & Gamble South America Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Spol. s.r.o. (Ltd.), Procter & Gamble Sports and Social Club Ltd., Procter & Gamble Sverige AB, Procter & Gamble Switzerland SARL, Procter & Gamble Taiwan Limited, Procter & Gamble Taiwan Sales Company Limited, Procter & Gamble Technical Centres Limited, Procter & Gamble Technology (Beijing) Co., Procter & Gamble Trading (Thailand) Limited, Procter & Gamble Tuketim Mallari Sanayii A.S., Procter & Gamble UK, Procter & Gamble UK Group Holdings Ltd, Procter & Gamble UK Parent Company Ltd., Procter & Gamble Universal Holding B.V., Procter & Gamble Verwaltungs GmbH, Procter & Gamble Vietnam, Procter & Gamble d.o.o. za trgovinu, Procter & Gamble de Venezuela S.C.A., Procter & Gamble de Venezuela S.R.L., Procter & Gamble do Brasil S/A, Procter & Gamble do Brazil, Procter & Gamble do Nordeste S/A, Procter & Gamble-Rakona s.r.o., Progam Realty & Development Corporation, Redmond Products, Richardson-Vicks Real Estate Inc., Richardson-Vicks do Brasil Quimica e Farmaceutica Ltda, Riverfront Music Publishing Co., Rosemount LLC, SPD Development Company Limited, SPD Swiss Precision Diagnostics GmbH, Scannon S.A.S., Series Acquisition B.V., Shulton, Surfac S.R.L., Sycamore Productions, TAOS - FL, TAOS Retail, Tambrands Inc., Temple Trees Impex & Investment Private Limited, The Art of Shaving - FL, The Dover Wipes Company, The Gillette Company, The Gillette Company LLC, The Gillette co., The Procter & Gamble Distributing LLC, The Procter & Gamble GBS Company, The Procter & Gamble Global Finance Company, The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company, The Procter & Gamble Paper Products Company, The Procter & Gamble U.S. Business Services Company, This is L., US CD LLC, Vidal Sassoon (Shanghai) Academy, Vidal Sassoon Co., WEBA Betriebsrenten-Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH, Walker & Company Brands, and iMFLUX Inc..The following companies are subsidiares of Occidental Petroleum: 1PointFive Inc., 1PointFive P1 LLC, APC Aviation Inc., APC International Holdings LLC, APC Midstream Holdings LLC, APC Venezuela Srl, ARCO Long Beach, Altura Energy, Amarok Gathering LLC, Anadarko 20-25 Company, Anadarko 20-36 Company, Anadarko 20-47 Company, Anadarko 20-48 Company, Anadarko 20-49 Company, Anadarko Algeria Block 403 c/e Company, Anadarko Algeria Block 406B Company, Anadarko Algeria Company LLC, Anadarko Algeria Oil & Gas Company, Anadarko Brazil Investment I LLC, Anadarko Brazil Investment II LLC, Anadarko Canada E&P Limited, Anadarko China Holdings 2 Company, Anadarko Colombia Company, Anadarko Consolidated Holdings LLC, Anadarko Cote d'Ivoire Block 103 Company, Anadarko Cote d'Ivoire Company, Anadarko DBMOS Operator LLC, Anadarko Development Company, Anadarko Development Holding Limited, Anadarko E&P Onshore LLC, Anadarko Egypt Holdings Company, Anadarko Energy Holding Limited, Anadarko Energy Services Company, Anadarko Exploracao e Producao de Petroleo e Gas Natural Ltda., Anadarko Finance Company, Anadarko Gabon Company, Anadarko Ghana Mahogany-1 Company, Anadarko Global Energy S.a.r.l, Anadarko Global Funding 1 Company, Anadarko Global Funding II Ltd., Anadarko Guyana Company, Anadarko Holding Company, Anadarko International Development S.a.r.l, Anadarko International Energy Company, Anadarko International O&G Company, Anadarko International Trading Corporation, Anadarko Jordan Company, Anadarko Kenya Company, Anadarko LMM S.a.r.l, Anadarko Land Corp., Anadarko Mexico B.V., Anadarko Mexico S.a.r.l, Anadarko Midkiff/Chaney Dell BR Corp., Anadarko Midkiff/Chaney Dell LLC, Anadarko Natural Gas Company LLC, Anadarko New Zealand Company, Anadarko OGC Company, Anadarko Offshore Holding Company LLC, Anadarko Offshore Well Containment Company LLC, Anadarko Oil & Gas 5 LLC, Anadarko Peru B.V., Anadarko Petroleum, Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, Anadarko Realty LLC, Anadarko Rockies LLC, Anadarko Royalty Holdings Company, Anadarko UK Corporate Limited, Anadarko US Offshore LLC, Anadarko USH1 Corporation, Anadarko Venezuela Company, Anadarko Venezuela LLC, Anadarko Venezuela Srl, Anadarko WCTP Company, Anadarko West Texas BR Corp., Anadarko West Texas LLC, Anadarko Worldwide Holdings C.V., Atlantic Rim Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Aventine LLC, Baseball Merger Sub 2 Inc., Bear Branch Exploration LLC, Big Island Trona Company, Bitter Creek Coal Company, Bravo Pipeline Company, Cain Chemical, Cain Chemical Inc., Carbon Finance Labs LLC, Concord Petroleum Corporation, Conn Creek Shale Company, D.S. Ventures LLC, DMM Financial LLC, Deerwood Exploration LLC, Downtown Plaza II, Elk Hills Field, FLAG Development LLC, FP Westport Commodities Limited, FP Westport GmbH, FP Westport LLC, FP Westport Limited, FP Westport Services LLC, FP Westport Trading LLC, Fosters Mill Exploration LLC, Glenn Springs Holdings Inc., Globrep Representaciones S.A., Grand Bassa Tankers Inc., Grupo OxyChem de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Headwater II LLC, Houndstooth Resources LLC, INDSPEC Chemical B.V., INDSPEC Chemical Corporation, INDSPEC Chemical Corporation, INDSPEC Chemical Export Sales LLC, INDSPEC Holding Corporation, Ingleside Cogeneration GP LLC, Ingleside Cogeneration Limited Partnership, Interore Trading Ltd., Joslyn Partnership, KERR-McGEE TT E&P LTD., KM BM-C-Seven Ltd., KM International Insurance Ltd., Kerr-McGee Corporation, Kerr-McGee Natural Gas Company Inc., Kerr-McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP, Kerr-McGee Shared Services Company LLC, Kerr-McGee Stored Power Corporation, Kerr-McGee U.K. Energy Corporation, Kerr-McGee Worldwide Corporation, Kerr-McGee do Brasil Ltda., Kerr-McGee of Canada Northwest Ltd., Laguna Petroleum Corp., Laguna Petroleum LLC, Liwa Oil & Gas Ltd., MC2 Technologies LLC, Mariana Properties Inc., Marico Exploration Inc., Miller Springs Remediation Management Inc., Moncrief Minerals Partnership L.P., NGL Ventures LLC, Natural Gas Odorizing Inc., New OPL LLC, OEVC Energy LLC, OEVC Midstream Projects LLC, OIH LLC, OLCV CE Holdings ULC, OLCV CE US Holdings Inc., OLCV Net Power LLC, OLCV Services LLC, OOG Partner LLC, OOOI Chem Holdings LLC, OOOI Chem Sub LLC, OOOI Chemical International LLC, OOOI Chile Holder LLC, OOOI Ecuador Management LLC, OOOI Oil and Gas Sub LLC, OOOI South America Management LLC, OPM GP Inc., OPM Holdco LLC, OTCF LLC, OTH LLC, OXY CV Pipeline LLC, OXY Campus LLC, OXY Inc., OXY LPG LLC, OXY Libya E&P Area 103 BR4 B.V., OXY Libya E&P Area 35 Ltd., OXY Libya E&P Concession 103 Ltd., OXY Libya E&P EPSA 102 B.V., OXY Libya E&P EPSA 1981 Ltd., OXY Libya E&P EPSA 1985 Ltd., OXY Libya E&P NC 143 144 145 150 B.V., OXY Libya Exploration SPC, OXY Libya LLC, OXY Little Knife LLC, OXY Mexico Holdings I LLC, OXY Mexico Holdings II LLC, OXY Middle East Holdings Ltd., OXY Oil Partners Inc., OXY PBLP Manager LLC, OXY Support Services LLC, OXY Tulsa Inc., OXY USA Inc., OXY USA WTP LP, OXY VPP Investments LLC, OXY West LLC, OXY of Saudi Arabia Ltd., OXYCHEM (CANADA) INC., OXYMAR, Oakwood Exploration LLC, Occidental (Bermuda) Ltd., Occidental (East Shabwa) LLC, Occidental Advance Sale Finance Inc., Occidental Al Hosn LLC, Occidental Angola Holdings Ltd., Occidental CIS Services Inc., Occidental Canada Holdings Ltd., Occidental Chemical Asia Limited, Occidental Chemical Belgium B.V.B.A., Occidental Chemical Chile Limitada, Occidental Chemical Corporation, Occidental Chemical Export Sales LLC, Occidental Chemical Far East Limited, Occidental Chemical Holding Corporation, Occidental Chemical International LLC, Occidental Chemical Investment (Canada) 1 Inc., Occidental Chemical Receivables LLC, Occidental Chemical de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Occidental Chile Investments LLC, Occidental Chile Minority Holder LLC, Occidental Colombia (Series G) Ltd., Occidental Colombia (Series J) Ltd., Occidental Colombia (Series K) Ltd., Occidental Colombia (Series L) Ltd., Occidental Colombia (Series M) Ltd., Occidental Colombia (Series N) Ltd., Occidental Colombia (Series O) Ltd., Occidental Crude Sales Inc. (Canada), Occidental Crude Sales Inc. (International), Occidental Dolphin Holdings Ltd., Occidental Energy Marketing Inc., Occidental Energy Ventures LLC, Occidental Exploradora del Peru Ltd., Occidental Exploration and Production Company, Occidental Hafar LLC, Occidental International (Libya) Inc., Occidental International Corporation, Occidental International Exploration and Production Company, Occidental International Holdings Ltd., Occidental International Oil and Gas Ltd., Occidental International Services Inc., Occidental Joslyn GP 2 Co., Occidental LNG (Malaysia) Ltd., Occidental Latin America Holdings LLC, Occidental Libya Oil & Gas B.V., Occidental MENA Manager Ltd., Occidental Middle East Development Company, Occidental Midland Basin LLC, Occidental Mukhaizna LLC, Occidental Oil Asia Pte. Ltd., Occidental Oil Shale Inc., Occidental Oil and Gas (Oman) Ltd., Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation, Occidental Oil and Gas International Inc., Occidental Oil and Gas International LLC, Occidental Oil and Gas Pakistan LLC, Occidental Oil and Gas of Peru LLC, Occidental Oman (Block 27) Holdings Ltd., Occidental Oman Block 51 Holding Ltd., Occidental Oman Block 51 LLC, Occidental Oman Block 65 Holding Ltd., Occidental Oman Block 65 LLC, Occidental Oman Block 72 Holding Ltd., Occidental Oman Block 72 LLC, Occidental Oman Gas Company LLC, Occidental Oman Gas Holdings Ltd., Occidental Oman North Holdings Ltd., Occidental Oriente Exploration and Production Ltd., Occidental Overseas Holdings B.V., Occidental PVC LLC, Occidental Peninsula II Inc., Occidental Peninsula LLC, Occidental Permian Ltd., Occidental Permian Manager LLC, Occidental Permian Services Inc., Occidental Peruana Inc., Occidental Petrolera del Peru (Block 101) Inc., Occidental Petrolera del Peru (Block 103) Inc., Occidental Petroleum (Pakistan) Inc., Occidental Petroleum Corporation, Occidental Petroleum Corporation Political Action Committee, Occidental Petroleum de Venezuela S.A., Occidental Petroleum of Nigeria, Occidental Petroleum of Oman Ltd., Occidental Petroleum of Qatar Ltd., Occidental Power Marketing L.P., Occidental Power Services Inc., Occidental Qatar Energy Company LLC, Occidental Red Sea Development LLC, Occidental Research Corporation, Occidental Resource Recovery Systems Inc., Occidental Resources Company, Occidental Shah Gas Holdings Ltd., Occidental South America Finance LLC, Occidental Specialty Marketing Inc., Occidental Tower Corporation, Occidental Transportation Holding Corporation, Occidental West Texas Overthrust Inc., Occidental Yemen Ltd., Occidental Yemen Sabatain Inc., Occidental del Ecuador Inc., Occidental of Abu Dhabi (Bab) Ltd., Occidental of Abu Dhabi (Shah) Ltd., Occidental of Abu Dhabi Holdings Ltd., Occidental of Abu Dhabi LLC, Occidental of Abu Dhabi Ltd., Occidental of Bahrain Ltd., Occidental of Bangladesh Inc., Occidental of Colombia (Chipiron) Inc., Occidental of Colombia (Cosecha) Inc., Occidental of Colombia (Medina) Inc., Occidental of Colombia (Putumayo) Ltd., Occidental of Colombia (Teca) Ltd., Occidental of Colombia PUT-36 LLC, Occidental of Dubai Inc., Occidental of Iraq Holdings Ltd., Occidental of Iraq LLC, Occidental of Oman Inc., Occidental of Russia Ltd., Occidental of South Africa (Offshore) Inc., Occidental of Yemen (Block 75) LLC, Oceanic Marine Transport Ltd., Opcal Insurance Inc., Oryx Crude Trading & Transportation Inc., Oxy BridgeTex Limited Partnership, Oxy C & I Bulk Sales LLC, Oxy Canada Sales Inc., Oxy Carbon Solutions LLC, Oxy Carbon Storage LLC, Oxy Climate Ventures Inc., Oxy Cogeneration Holding Company LLC, Oxy Colombia Holdings LLC, Oxy Colombia TopCo Ltd., Oxy Delaware Basin LLC, Oxy Delaware Basin Plant LLC, Oxy Dolphin E&P LLC, Oxy Dolphin Pipeline LLC, Oxy Energy Canada Inc., Oxy Energy Services LLC, Oxy Expatriate Services Inc., Oxy FFT Holdings Inc., Oxy Holding Company (Pipeline) Inc., Oxy International Ventures Ltd., Oxy LPG Terminal LLC, Oxy Levelland Pipeline Company LLC, Oxy Levelland Terminal Company LLC, Oxy Low Carbon Ventures LLC, Oxy Midstream Strategic Development LLC, Oxy Oleoducto SOP LLC, Oxy Overseas Services Ltd., Oxy Permian Gathering LLC, Oxy Permian Plaza LLC, Oxy Petroleum de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Oxy Renewable Energy LLC, Oxy Salt Creek Pipeline LLC, Oxy TL LLC, Oxy Taft Hub LLC, Oxy Technology Ventures Inc., Oxy Transport I Company LLC, Oxy Vinyls Canada Co., Oxy Vinyls Export Sales LLC, Oxy Vinyls LP, Oxy Westwood Corporation, Oxy Y-1 Company, OxyChem Ingleside Ethylene Holdings Inc., OxyChem do Brasil Ltda., OxyChile Investments LLC, Oxychem Shipping Ltd., Permian Basin JV Tax Matters Member LLC, Permian Basin Limited Partnership, Permian VPP Holder LP, Permian VPP Manager LLC, Phibro, Placid Oil LLC, Ramlat Oxy Ltd., Rio de Viento Inc., Rodeo Midland Basin LLC, San Patricio Pipeline LLC, Scanports Shipping LLC, SequestCo LLC, Stetson Exploration LLC, Sun Offshore Gathering Company, Swiflite Aircraft Corporation, Transok Properties LLC, Troy Potter Inc., Turavent Oil GmbH [in liquidation], Tuscaloosa Holdings Inc., UP Petroleo III Ltd., Upland Industries Corporation, Venezuela US SRL, Vintage Gas Inc., Vintage Petroleum, Vintage Petroleum Argentina Ltd., Vintage Petroleum Boliviana Ltd., Vintage Petroleum International Finance B.V., Vintage Petroleum International Holdings LLC, Vintage Petroleum International LLC, Vintage Petroleum International Ventures Inc., Vintage Petroleum Italy Inc., Vintage Petroleum South America Holdings Inc., Vintage Petroleum South America LLC, Vintage Petroleum Turkey Inc., WGR Asset Holding Company LLC, WGR Canada Inc., Wardner Ranch Inc., Western Gas Resources Inc., Western Gas Resources-Westana Inc., Western Midstream Holdings LLC, Woodlands International Insurance Ltd., and YT Ranch LLC.Police in Kathmandu and Itahari tried to obstruct access to justice

A staggering number of rape cases have been registered with the police in Kathmandu, Chitwan, Jhapa, Sunsari and Khotang. On average, 78 rape charges are registered with the police every month.A session of the trial between Wynn Macau and former gaming executive Rogelio Yusi Bangsil Jr was held in the Court of First Instance on Friday. During the proceedings, a witness from Wynn Macaus legal department was called to testify.

Bangsil is suing Wynn Macau for what he describes as the unlawful and wrongful disclosure of his personal data to authorities outside Macau, which subsequently tarnished his professional integrity and damaged his career.

Bangsil, a former executive at Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor), a state-owned gaming company and casino regulator, was named in a report commissioned by a U.S. law firm in 2011, regarding an improper relationship between Japanese billionaire Kazuo Okada and gaming officials from the Philippines.

The report, produced under the leadership of former FBI director Louis Freeh, alleged that Okada had made MOP880,000 worth of unlawful payments and gifts to some 17 people, including Bangsil and his wife, to curry favor with gaming regulators. The gifts reportedly included hotel stays in Macau and Las Vegas.

According to the witness, Okada had also invited the 17 individuals, including Bangsils boss, to Macau as his guests while he cultivated businesses in the Philippines.

However, Bangsil requested to conceal his bosss identity upon their arrival at Wynn Macau. This drew the attention of Wynn Macau staff, who requested his bosss identity in order to comply with Wynn guidelines.

According to the witness, Wynn Macau is unable to enter into benefit-related transactions with officials under investigation, such as Bangsil and his boss.

During the trial, the witness said that Okadas secretary had requested Wynn Macau to partially absorb some of the expenses of Bangsil, his boss and fellow guests while in Macau. However, Wynn Macau issued instructions banning staff from doing so.

The witness claimed to be unaware of Wynn Macau disclosing the guests personal information to the U.S. law firm, and said he was shocked to learn about the existence of their report, which involved Bangsil.

He admitted he did not know where the law firm gathered the information from, and that it did not share the plan with Wynn Macau. The witness said that he and his colleagues had no idea that the information would be used outside Macau. JZA woman who threw a shoe at a billboard depicting Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has been arrested after she was repatriated from Thailand, where the U.N. refugee agency reportedly had formally recognized her as a refugee.

Human Rights Watch called on the Cambodian government to immediately release labor activist Sam Sokha and criticized Thai authorities for sending her back against her will.

The New York-based group said her forced repatriation violated the customary principle of international law that prohibits the return of anyone to a place where they would face the threat of persecution, torture, or other serious human rights violations.

Kampong Speu provincial police Gen. Sam Samoun said Sam Sokha was returned to Cambodia on Thursday and was being sent to his province on Friday to begin serving a two-year prison sentence. He said she was arrested by Thai authorities after a request from the Cambodian government. Human Rights Watch said she was detained in Thailand on Jan. 5.

Sam Samoun said the provincial court convicted Sam Sokha in absentia on Jan. 25 of insult of a public official and incitement to discriminate.

A 13-second video clip that circulated on the internet last April showed Sam Sokha looking at a roadside ruling party billboard, then throwing one shoe at the image of Hun Sen and a second shoe at an image of one of his party colleagues. This man even came here to destroy the nation, Sam Sokha can be heard saying in the video.

People have every right to criticize, insult, and satirize their government or political leaders without fear of retribution, Chak Sopheap, executive director of the Cambodian Center for Human Rights, said last April. It is unacceptable and unlawful for state authorities to subject individuals to judicial harassment and potential criminal charges simply for expressing their negative opinion of those in power.

Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party stepped up prosecutions of critics and political opponents ahead of nationwide local elections last year and a general election next year. Media outlets seen as critical of the government were forced to shut down.

Hun Sen has been in power for three decades, and while maintaining a framework of democracy, tolerates little opposition. But his grip seemed shaken in 2013s general election, when the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party mounted a strong challenge, winning 55 seats in the National Assembly and leaving Hun Sens party with 68. Cambodian courts, which are generally seen as acting under the influence of the government, dissolved the opposition party last November, depriving it of all its seats in parliament.

Thailand was fully aware of Sam Sokhas status as a refugee, yet still returned her to Cambodia, where she is likely to face a prison term for expressing her political views, Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. Its sad but not surprising that a military junta would do a favor for a neighboring dictator, but they should not cement their friendship at the expense of a refugee. Thailand has been under military rule since 2014. APSecretary for Security Wong Sio Chak said at a press conference last Friday that Macaus security situation in 2017 remained, in general, stable and favorable.

At the same time, the adjustment of the gaming sector has not brought consequences related to Macaus security situation, he added.

During the conference, Wong reported some of Macaus crime statistics in 2017. The Macau police force filed a total of 14,293 criminal cases, 94 fewer than 2016. Some 820 violent crime cases were registered, a drop of 2.4 percent from last year due to fewer unlawful detentions (7.5 percent down) and drug trafficking cases (15.4 percent down).

Some 1,061 illegal immigrants were listed in 2017, down 31.7 percent year-on-year. Of those, 821 were from mainland China and 224 were from Vietnam.

Some 3,238 people overstayed their Individual Visit permits in Macau, while 22,166 people overstayed other mainland travel visas. About half of these were non-Chinese nationals.

Incidences of arson and the transfer of fake bank notes both increased; the former jumped 125 percent (54 cases in total) while the latter increased 7.6 percent (299 cases in total).

Ten more robberies were registered, reaching 108 cases in total.

Three homicides were recorded.

When asked about the number of people who were denied entry to Macau, Wong replied, normally, we do not publish these statistics. This is a usual practice worldwide.

According to Wong, Macau will deny entry to individuals who pose a threat to Macaus security or internal stability.

Both types of entry ban are in accordance with the internal security law and other relevant laws, explained Wong.

The security authorities received 716 submissions regarding the cybersecurity law during a previous public consultation period.

We are carrying out an analysis. After it is concluded, we will make public the related opinions to the society. [] Hopefully, we can finish the related law in the first half of this year. Afterwards, we will try to promote legislative work during the second half, said Wong.

Some 1,847 gaming-related crime cases were recorded, four fewer than in 2016, while 448 usury cases were also reported.

Most of the suspects and victims were not Macau residents, revealed Wong.

Four mainland residents died during unlawful detention in Macau, either by committing suicide or falling from buildings while trying to escape.

In 2017, five WeChat-related gaming crimes were registered. In these cases, criminal groups used the social media platform WeChat to live-broadcast gambling activities in Macau or the Philippines, with gamblers paying to join via WeChat Pay.Fighting between ethnic Turks and Greeks in the disputed island of Cyprus has left at least 16 people dead.

Shots started to be exchanged between the two sides lines in the port town of Limassol late yesterday afternoon.

Four Greek Cypriots including a schoolgirl were reported to have been injured in the shooting before a ceasefire was negotiated.

Soon after ambulances driven by RAF personnel went into the area of fighting to bring out the wounded.

However, fighting resumed at around dawn on Wednesday morning.

By the time peace was restored the Greek Cypriots had succeeded in ousting the Turkish Cypriots from their last remaining strongholds in Limassol including Berengaria Castle.

The islands two main ethnic groups have been involved in a civil war since last year.

In 1960 Cyprus gained independence from Britain after a long and sometimes violent campaign by some ethnic Greeks who wanted Cyprus to become part of Greece.

The Zurich Settlement which set down terms for independence included a scheme of political proportional representation reflecting the fact that 82% of the population are ethnically Greek.

However, many ethnic Turks felt the system was unfair and received backing from Turkey whilst many Greeks wanted Cyprus to become part of Greece.

Greece and Turkey have been close to war several times with both claiming ownership of the island.

Britain now has a truce force stationed on the island which it ruled from 1914.

So far British soldiers have not got involved in the fighting and it is hoped that Cyprus President Makarios will accept a bigger force from the Commonwealth to take their place.

In the wake of the fighting the US is planning to evacuate its citizens from Cyprus to Beirut.

However, Britain is advising about 2,000 families of service personnel in Limassol to stay put apart from those living near the Turkish quarter.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

A total of 21 people died during the fighting in Limassol.

In March 1964 the United Nations sent a 7,000-strong peacekeeping force to Cyprus.

Cyprus has been partitioned since 1974, when a Greek-inspired coup prompted a Turkish invasion of the northern third of the island.

Since then Greek and Turkish Cypriots have been divided by a so-called green line, patrolled by UN soldiers.

Thousands of ethnic Greeks were displaced from their homes and many have never returned.

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was declared in 1983, but has been recognised only by Turkey itself.

A UN plan put to a referendum on 24 April 2004 envisaged a federation of two states  one Greek and the other Turkish  with a loose central government, on the Swiss model with a symbolic, alternating presidency.

It was rejected decisively by the Greek Cypriots but accepted by the Turkish Cypriots. EU membership only applies in the Greek sector.The opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai- Macau Bridge and greater cooperation between the neighboring cities of Zhuhai and Macau will be key factors in driving the growth of the local meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) sector, a leading local practitioner said on the sidelines of an industry event last week.

Todd Cai, president of non- profit organization, Macau Meetings, Incentives and Special Events Association (MISE), which seeks to mature the local MICE sector, made the comments on the sidelines of an event at a new local venue at Fishermans Wharf by the waterside.

In Cais opinion, the key to the industrys success will be the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, set to commence general operations in the second quarter of this year.

The Bridge will bring more international players to Macau, both industry players and consumers, he said. This, together with many new resorts [in the city], is making Macau an exciting destination for MICE.

Cai said that although the government records the number of total visitors to Macau each month and year, there are almost no statistics that pertain to business visitors, making it difficult to ascertain the size of the market and whether it is growing.

He also noted that Macau still has a long way to go before it can be known across Asia as a MICE destination. However, Macau can offer more in terms of value than emerging rival jurisdictions in the Asia-Pacific region such as Japan and Vietnam.

Vietnam is looking to bring more industry players, and Japan is developing its integrated resorts, but the value [proposition] offered in Macau is still one of the best in Asian countries, he said.

Another key will be greater cooperation with Zhuhai.

Macau and Zhuhai can be partners or competitors, admitted Cai. Of course, their industries can complement each other, he added, in reference to the beaches, space and theme park business in Zhuhai. But according to him, the extent of their cooperation will depend on ease of access for visitors between the two municipalities.

Some companies [running MICE events] have tried to get visa requirements eased [for their trip], but it is not always easy. This is a key factor if the two cities want to cooperate: ease of access. There must be some way to make this easier.

MISE is a non-profit association that seeks to support Macau professionals working in the meetings, incentives and special events sector. For the last two years, its main objectives have been to generate business opportunities for its members, promote Macau as a MICE destination, attract events from the international arena to Macau and provide education and training to the industry.

In the third quarter of 2017, the latest quarter for which data is available, the number of participants at meetings and conferences increased by 33.9 percent year-on-year to about 60,000, and the number of attendees at incentives activities soared 220 percent to 18,000. During the same time, the number of attendees at exhibitions dropped almost 13 percent to 503,000.A delegation from the Permanent Secretariat of the Forum for Economic and Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries (Forum Macau), toured Beijing recently. During their stay in the Chinese capital, the delegation met with ambassadors representing countries including Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal and East-Timor.

The delegation visited the Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Department of the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) of China, the MOFCOM External Trade Development Administration, and the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Food products.

During the visit, representatives of Forum Macau presented the work carried out in 2017 as well as the Activity Program designed for 2018. The 2018 program will focus on the activities to be carried out during the commemoration of the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau Forum.

During the visits, Xu Yingzhen, Secretary-General of the Macau Forum, mentioned that it has and will actively promote the implementation of the Economic and Trade Cooperation Action Plan (2017-2019) and the Memorandum of Understanding on Promoting Co-operation in Productive Capacity. These tools as well as the 18 new measures announced by the Chinese counterparties detail works initiated in several areas, including: productive capacity cooperation, trade and investment promotion, human resources, and cultural exchange. These announcements were made during the 5th Ministerial Conference and their implementation will be a major subject for Macau Forum this year. RMSaturday evenings fatal bus crash is Hong Kongs worst such incident in 15 years, killing at least 19 people and injuring 65. The KMB (Kowloon Motor Bus Company) double-decker bus lost control and flipped onto its side en route from Sha Tin Racecourse to Tai Po Center, killing 14 men and four women at the scene. Another man died in hospital early yesterday morning, bringing the death toll to 19.

Nine people are still in critical condition, while 11 are in serious condition.

The Fire Services Department said it took firefighters 85 minutes to rescue all of the passengers trapped inside the bus.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced at a press conference yesterday that the families of the bereaved will receive HKD300,000. She promised to start looking for a judge to head an investigation.

The injured parties will receive between HKD150,000 and HKD250,000 depending on the severity of their injuries, funded by donations from several organizations.

I would like to see this independent review be conducted and completed as soon as possible so that, if need be, the improvement measures could be put in place as early as possible, said Lam, as cited in RTHK.

But at this point in time, Im afraid I cannot give you a very definite timetable, because we need to identify this judge and perhaps with or without another expert or person to assist the judge, she added.

The driver, a 30-year old part-time employee, has been arrested for dangerous driving causing death and grievous bodily harm.

KMB has expressed its regret over the accident and announced that it will form an investigation committee led by its independent non-executive directors.

The bus company added that it will give HKD80,000 to each affected family and assist them in claiming insurance.

The Chinese central government also expressed its condolences to the families of the bereaved through a letter to the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office of the State Council.

We feel deep grief over the severe traffic accident, the letter read.

We noticed that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government has adopted emergency measures to rescue those injured with all available resources and deal with relevant issues.

A survivor told South China Morning Post that the bus appeared to be going as fast as 80 to 100km/h on Tai Po Road, which has a speed limit of 70km/h.

He believed that some passengers might have lived if they had only fallen on the shattered glass.

But the bus was skidding, he said, recalling an image of a woman whose neck was twisted. People have already lost their lives. Money wont make a difference.Prime Minister opens 300-bed hospital in Jumla

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba inaugurated Karnali Academy of Health Sciences 300-bed hospital in Jumla in Province 6 on Sunday.The turmoil surrounding Wynn Resorts Ltd. in the wake of Steve Wynns resignation is unlikely to translate into a big acquisition, according the chief executive officer of rival MGM Resorts International.

Its a very large organization, MGMs James Murren said in an interview in Tokyo Friday. It would be difficult to believe some entity is going to have the financial wherewithal to make a serious bid for them.

With the ending of an era in the casino industry after the resignation of Steve Wynn in the wake of sexual-misconduct allegations, analysts are speculating on Wynn Resorts future. While many have confidence in new CEO Matt Maddox, the company with a market value of USD17 billion faces multiple challenges including regulatory probes from Massachusetts to Macau, and possible takeover approaches.

Murren is in Japan to promote MGMs interest in operating a casino resort there. MGM competes with Wynn in the gambling hubs of Las Vegas and Macau, and both are also vying for a spot to operate casinos in Japan, which recently legalized casinos.

Everyone admires the assets of Wynn Resorts, Murren said, as they are very high quality and the companys management is talented. Still, he doesnt see a large private-equity-backed bid for the casino operator.

I dont think people are going to see the megadeals, he said. Those days are over. BloombergMillennials spending habits have been driving business leaders crazy  but not because the youngest generation in the workforce is irresponsible with their cash.

On the contrary, millennials are turning out to be the most frugal demographic since the so-called Greatest Generation that came of age during the depression. Thats largely because of the huge student-debt cloud that hangs over them, said Neely Tamminga, CEO of consumer-advisory firm Distill. Tamminga spoke this week at the Turnaround Management Associations Las Vegas conference for investors in distressed assets.

College loans are the second-largest class of debt, Tamminga said, behind mortgages and ahead of credit card and auto loans. Thats one reason why a more optimistic retail outlook is still questionable, even after the best holiday season in more than a decade and strong employment and home values underpin U.S. economic activity.

The holiday was fantastic, but CEOs arent jumping up and down, Tamminga said, noting that holiday sales have no correlation with the following years performance.

Employers might want to think about using windfalls from the new tax cuts to help workers make student-loan payments, Tamminga said. Such a measure could go further than an extra contribution to retirement plans and help reduce high workplace turnover, she said.

At the end of the day, what retailers could really use is something theyll have trouble providing: less overall anxiety. Consumers spend when theyre sad or happy, but not angry or afraid, she said.

Weve been pretty angry and afraid in the past year, Tamminga said. BloombergA detained Swedish bookseller at the center of an escalating row between Western governments and China has accused Sweden of using him as a chess piece in a media appearance arranged by Chinese police.

Gui Minhai, a Hong Kong-based publisher who sold books of salacious gossip about Chinese leaders, told several outlets including the South China Morning Post on Friday that he never wanted to leave China and that Stockholm has been using his case to create trouble for Chinas government.

The statement from Gui, who spoke in a detention facility flanked by police, was immediately denounced by rights activists as coerced. In putting Gui before the press this week, Chinese state security appeared to be responding to Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom, who last week sharply questioned the rule of law in China and blasted Beijings brutal treatment of Gui after weeks of relatively mild pleas for his release.

Gui was seized in January by 10 plainclothes agents while traveling by train with Swedish diplomats. Sweden said its officials were taking him to seek medical treatment.

In a 20-minute appearance on Friday, Gui told reporters that officials in Sweden had sensationalized his case for political purposes ahead of this years general election, according to the Post. The newspaper said it was approached by Chinas Ministry of Public Security about an interview on Wednesday  a day after Wallstroms statement  and it agreed to take part, provided that it could ask any questions it wanted.

Looking back, I might have become Swedens chess piece. I broke the law again under their instigation, Gui was quoted by the Post as saying. My wonderful life has been ruined and I would never trust the Swedish ever again.

The Swedish foreign ministry said in an email that Sweden has acted strictly in accordance with basic international rules on consular support.

We continue to demand that our citizen be given the opportunity to meet with Swedish diplomatic and medical staff, and that he be released so that he can be reunited with his daughter and family, it said.

Patric Nilsson, a foreign ministry spokesman, told Swedish media on Friday that Guis comments would not sway Swedens calls for his release, which have been echoed by Germany, the European Union and the United States.

We have a clear demand that he be set free, so that he can meet his family, Nilsson told the TT news agency. Those demands remain.

Police in the eastern Chinese city of Ningbo, where Gui was released into house arrest in October, did not respond to a fax seeking comment. But earlier in the week, Chinas foreign ministry heavily criticized Sweden for advocating on Guis behalf and warned against efforts to interfere in Chinese judicial matters.

It is not the first time Gui, 53, has been detained by Chinese authorities, nor is it his first interview conducted in Chinese captivity.

He was believed to have been abducted by Chinese agents for the first time in 2015 from his seaside home in Thailand. At the time, speculation swirled in publishing circles that Gui was on the verge of releasing a new book about the personal lives of top Chinese leaders, explaining the all-out efforts to silence him.

Several of Guis colleagues from his Hong Kong publishing house also went missing in quick succession, sparking street protests in Hong Kong against what was widely viewed to be efforts by mainland security forces to snuff out independent voices in the semi-autonomous city.

Gui was released into house arrest after Chinese authorities said he turned himself in over a hit-and-run accident allegedly committed years before. Guis overseas friends and family, including his daughter Angela, say that the charges were bogus and that Gui was keen to leave China for Europe.

But in his interview Friday, Gui told reporters he was in fact living happily in Ningbo and playing mahjong with his mother several months ago when Swedish officials exaggerated the diagnosis of a muscular ailment and convinced him that he should return to Sweden as soon as possible to seek treatment for a severe neurological disease.

He eventually fell for it, he explained, while adding that he was not allowed to leave the country because he was still under investigation for conducting illegal business.

I have seen through the Swedish government, he said. I may consider giving up my Swedish citizenship.

Guis case has deeply frustrated Western governments who say they had assurances early this year from Chinas foreign ministry that Guis liberty had been restored and that Guis seizure in January in full view of Swedish consular officials came as a shock.

Although Chinese authorities have long pressed dissidents for confessions, Guis latest interview adds to a growing pattern in recent years of the government using high-profile political detainees and state-controlled or sympathetic press to directly rebut criticism. In some instances, detainees, including a Swedish human rights activist and one of Guis colleagues, have recanted their jailhouse confessions aired by the state broadcaster CCTV as soon as they left China.

Gui previously issued a televised confession while in detention in 2016, telling CCTV that he was being legally held for his traffic violation and was willing to accept any punishment.

In yet another embarrassing move, #China is forcing Swedish citizen #GuiMinhai to confess and make public statements, Mans Molander, Sweden and Denmark director of Human Rights Watch, said on Twitter Friday. We have seen it before. Gerry Shih, Beijing, APYoung Macau residents buying their first homes can now take out bank loans equivalent to 80 or 90 percent of the properties agreed-upon valuation.

The revised mortgage-lending rule is one of the new housing regulations which came into effect yesterday.

On Friday, a notice published in the Official Gazette amended the existing urban and housing tax regulations, as well as the regulations governing stamp duty tax for the purchase of more than one residential property.

The two bills received second and final readings in the Legislative Assembly on February 6 and 7, respectively.

Under the new rules, the status of rental properties as exemptions to the vacant residential property tax will be removed.

The new stamp duty tax rule  applicable on acquisition of a second residential property  stipulates that homebuyers will be obliged to pay 5 percent of the propertys value on top of existing taxes.

For the purchase of a third property and over, the additional stamp duty will be 10 percent of the property value.

According to Chief Executive Chui Sai On, the new rules aim to promote the healthy development of Macaus property market.

Speaking to reporters last week, Chui urged members of the public to exercise care when buying property and consider whether they can afford the asking price.

In a statement by the Government Information Bureau, government officials reiterated that banks must follow risk management guidelines and carefully assess prospective borrowers ability to repay loans. Each monthly repayment must be no greater than 50 percent of a borrowers monthly income.

Clarification on new rules



THE MONETARY Authority of Macao (AMCM) and the Financial Services Bureau (DSF) jointly organized a session to clarify new measures approved by the Legislative Assembly, which aim to tighten regulations on the real estate market. During the session, the AMCM pointed out that it had sought opinions from diverse members of society, whose main wish is for the government to support property buyers who aspire to become homeowners even as they repay their mortgage loans..Steve Wynn agreed to give up control over his ex-wifes shares of Wynn Resorts Ltd., potentially ending their six-year legal battle days after he resigned from the casino company following accusations of sexual harassment.

If a judge approves, Steve Wynns voting power will shrink to 11.8 percent of the shares, with Elaine Wynn able to determine what to do with her 9.4 percent stake. That may leave Wynn Resorts more vulnerable to activists or potential acquirers.

The company said in a filing Friday that Steve Wynn has no immediate plans to sell his shares and would only do so in an orderly fashion in any case. At one point Wynn, 76, had corralled more than a third of the voting rights at the company, making an unfriendly takeover virtually impossible.

Elaine Wynn previously said she wanted the ability to sell her shares so she could focus on philanthropy. Her spokeswoman declined to comment Friday.

The heart of the fight was an agreement between Steve Wynn, Elaine Wynn and Japanese businessman Kazuo Okada, a Wynn Resorts co-founder, that gave Steve control over the groups shares. Steve Wynn had lost his previous casino company, Mirage Resorts, in a takeover by MGM Resorts International and sought to lock up as much stock in his new company as possible.

The relationship between the three began to crumble in 2012, when Wynn Resorts sued Okada and unilaterally bought back his shares after accusing the businessman of trying to bribe foreign casino officials. Okada tried to regain his stake and Elaine Wynn said she should no longer be bound by the agreement.

The Okada suit is expected to go to trial in April.

Wynn, chairman and chief executive officer, resigned last week from Wynn Resorts in the wake of a Jan. 26 Wall Street Journal expose detailing sexual harassment allegations going back decades. Wynn Resorts said Friday an outside counsel was no longer investigating the claims, though a board committee will continue working to ensure the company employs best in class workplace practices. Christopher Palmeri, BloombergIndonesias overcrowded prisons are ill-equipped to deal with Islamic militant inmates, hampering efforts to prevent the spread of violent radicalism in institutions that have become known as jihadist breeding grounds, a study has found.

The research by University of Indonesia psychologists, which adds to years of warnings by experts, found that prison staff lack the ability to identify high-risk prisoners who could recruit other inmates because theyre given limited information and little specialist training.

Indonesia, the worlds most populous Muslim-majority nation, has arrested and imprisoned hundreds of Islamic militants in a crackdown that followed an attack on the island of Bali in 2002. Yet many remained committed to violent extremism  both during and after their incarceration  and used their time in prison to radicalize others, who went on to commit acts of violence.

The eight-month study at the four largest Indonesian prisons found staff who have close contact with inmates dont know how to limit the influence of hard-

line ideologues or identify the less ideologically committed who could be disentangled with simple interventions, said Faisal Magrie, coordinator of the research, which was released Thursday.

The problems in the prison system are often defeating efforts to turn convicted militants away from radicalism, he said.

The challenges are exacerbated by poor coordination among government agencies and non-government organizations, which leads to duplicated efforts and unclear de-radicalization programs, Magrie said.

As a result, inmates are confused by the program, bored, and eventually refuse to participate, he said.

Irfan Idris, director of de-radicalization at the National Counter-Terrorism Agency, said the radicalization of ordinary criminals by militants who support the Islamic State group continues to be a nightmare for police and prison officials.

He said at least 18 former prisoners have been involved in extremist cases in Indonesia since 2010, and most were radicalized in prison.

Efforts have since been made to isolate high-profile militant leaders to prevent the spread of violent ideology.

Two such ideologues in prison are Abu Bakar Bashir, the spiritual leader of the Southeast Asian radical network Jemaah Islamiyah, and Aman Abdurrahman, the main Indonesian translator for IS propaganda and the leader of Jemaah Anshorut Daulah, a network of almost two dozen Indonesian extremist groups formed in 2015.

Both Bashir and Aman have followings in and out of prison. Aman inspired those who staged a 2016 attack in Jakarta that left eight people dead, including the four perpetrators. After that attack, the two were isolated from other prisoners and visitors were restricted.

Yudi Zulfahri, a graduate of Indonesias civil service training college who later became radicalized in an Islamic study group, said he was talked out of radicalism by convicted Bali bomber Ali Imron, who cooperated with police and recanted his extremist beliefs.

Imron opened my eyes and my heart to the truth of Islam and what we did in the past is wrong, said Zulfahri, who spent five years in prison for attending a jihadist training camp in Aceh. De-radicalization would be more effective if done by the former radical himself.

In prison Zulfahri said he witnessed how easy it was for criminals to be radicalized but added it could be easily prevented by separating militant prisoners from the general prison population.

Overpopulated prisons are the main reason de-radicalization efforts are struggling, said Bahrul Wijaksana, a senior program manager of Search for Common Ground, a non-government organization based in Washington that works with Indonesias Directorate-General of Corrections.

Currently, he said, the 477 prisons in Indonesia, which were built to accommodate 115,000 inmates, are holding about 254,000 prisoners. In big cities, prisons are four to five times overcapacity. Jakartas Cipinang Prison, built to hold 900 inmates, has nearly 4,000 prisoners.

Meanwhile, at current staffing levels in prison, there is one officer for every 55 inmates, making it difficult if not impossible to closely monitor all prisoner activities.

The deradicalization program is not going to be effective unless some of these issues are addressed, said Wijaksana.

Zainal Arifin, an official at the Justice and Human Rights Ministry, said a grand design for handling high-risk inmates is being implemented.

A one man one cell prison, located in the Nusa Kambangan area, is under construction and will be able to hold 124 convicted militants when completed this year, he said.

Arifin said the ministry is assessing 276 militant inmates scattered across 108 prisons to decide which should be separated from the general prison population.

Deradicalization is a big job and we cannot work alone, Arifin said.

The effort even needs to include the public, he said, because released militants are known to return to jihadist networks because theyre often ostracized and unable to find work after release.

People are urged not to exclude those who are released to prevent them from returning to their old habits, he said. Niniek Karmini, Jakarta, APThe Judiciary Police (PJ) are investigating a case of suspected arson that occurred on Saturday at the construction site of the luxury condominium Waterfront Duet in the Fai Chi Kei area, TDM Radio reported. The PJs preliminary investigation uncovered suspicious materials on at least two of the building floors. On the 26th floor where the fire broke out was a box of glue used for fittings of piping systems and other highly flammable products. Door frames piled with glue casings were also found on the fifth floor. The fire was restricted to a small area and, according to the authorities, has not caused any major damage to the building nor any injuries to construction workers.

Macau, Hebei discuss development of Xiongan New Area

The governments of Macau and Hebei held talks last week regarding collaborative measures to develop the Xiongan New Area  a designated economic zone in Hebei province  that will in turn contribute to the growth of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region. The regional cooperation will also strengthen the citys overall competiveness, said the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lionel Leong. According to the Government Information Bureau, the two parties discussed cooperation in fields such as investment, tourism and cultural affairs, as well as how to enhance ties between the people of Macau and Hebei. Hebeis governor Xu Qin noted that the 2022 Winter Olympics will be held in Beijing and Hebei, and that he looked forward to strengthening Hebei-Macau ties in relation to tourism, cultural affairs and sports.THAILAND About 400 anti-government protesters rallied in the Thai capital over the weekend, calling on the countrys military rulers to give up power and hold elections they promised soon after staging a coup in 2014.

CAMBODIA A woman who threw a shoe at a billboard depicting Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has been arrested after she was repatriated from Thailand, where the UN refugee agency reportedly had formally recognized her as a refugee.

INDONESIA A packed tourist bus returning from an outing collided with a motorbike and plunged from a hill on Indonesias main island of Java after its brakes apparently malfunctioned, killing at least 27 people.

INDIA-UAE Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the second day of his visit to the UAE by unveiling a model of the first Hindu temple that will be built in the capital of Abu Dhabi, a testament to the stronger ties that both countries seek.

IRAN Hundreds of thousands of Iranians rallied on the streets yesterday to mark the 39th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, just weeks after anti-government protests rocked cities across the country.

ISRAELs prime minister said yesterday his country delivered severe blows to Iranian and Syrian forces and vowed to take further action against its adversaries following the most serious Israeli engagement in Syria since the war there erupted almost seven years ago.

RUSSIA A passenger plane believed to be carrying 71 people crashed yesterday near Moscow, shortly after takeoff from one of the citys airports. No survivors were immediately reported.

ITALY Marchers protested racism Saturday in several Italian cities and warned against a revival of neo-fascist sentiment amid the campaign for Italys March 4 national election.

SPAIN Police say they have confiscated 310 kilos of young eels that were about to be smuggled out of the country and shipped to Asia.

VENEZUELA The governments decision to plow ahead with early presidential elections over the objections of the opposition risks spurring more international sanctions and exacerbating an economic and social crisis driving increasing numbers of Venezuelans into exile, analysts say.

BRAZIL Authorities are investigating arsons at two separate residences where Venezuelans were living that they believe were committed by the same person, a police official said Friday.Kleiber-Ballesteros. Credit: Asociacion RUVID

A multidisciplinary team of researchers of the Universitat de Valencia, the Universidad Politecnica de Madrid and the Queen Mary University of London has solved a puzzle that bewildered biologists for over a centuryhow and why an organism's basal metabolism varies depending on its mass. Basal metabolism is the minimum energy that an organism consumes to stay alive. The group's work has been published in Scientific Reports, Nature's open access variant.

An adult human in absolute rest and at a 20 C room temperature burns approximately one calorie per kilo/hour. However, an elephant burns a half-calorie per kilo of mass in the same period, while a mouse burns an astonishing 70 calories per kilo. What causes this difference?

One of the first people to observe this phenomenon was German physiologist Max Rubner, who was studying the basal metabolism of dogs of various sizes in 1883. Rubner suggested that the phenomenon was caused by the heat lost through the skin. The surface area of the skin varies according to the size of the animal squared, whereas its volume varies by the size cubed, which would imply that basal metabolism B varies proportionately to the mass raised to the power of 2/3, M2/3. However, in 1932, measurements that Swiss biologist Max Kleiber performed for mammals of a larger range of masses, including oxen and rats, seemed to indicate that changes in metabolism followed M3/4, a figure we now know as Kleiber's law.

The search for an explanation ignited intense debate over decades, which was seemingly resolved in 1997 with the fractal model of physicist Geoffrey West et al. This model explained the exponent with the fractal form of the organism's networks of resource distribution, such as the circulatory or respiratory systems. Measuring an organism's basal figure is a delicate and laborious task. As the number of metabolic measurements increased by performing measurements on more animals, the fractal model started to show increasing inconsistencies, to the point that in some groups of animals such as small birds or insects, the 3/4 exponent does not fit. Even for mammals, for which Kleiber's law was conceived, data shows noticeable divergence compared to the theory behind the law.

Now, the authors of an article recently published in Scientific Reports have found an unexpected answer via an astrophysics theoretical model. "While we were writing the "Fractales y caos' book, in which we talk about Kleyber's law, we realized that West's fractal model didn't fit. The thermal explanation seemed more natural, but the energetic part that doesn't dissipate like heat had to be taken into account," explains Fernando Ballesteros. "Vicent and I added this to the thermal method, and we saw that the data fit perfectly with our theory. Andres immediately realized that our model was a trade-off, an evolutionary exchange, and we perfected it together. Enric gave the thermal method solidity after the trade-off, and Bartolo and Lucas expanded the work to living beings other than mammals, confirming its predictive power."

The scientists propose this solution as a compromise between passive caloric dissipation and the minimum energy consumption for cellular maintenance. Not all energy that an organism consumes is transformed into heat; some is used for cell division, some to synthesize proteinsin other words, to support the organism and allow it to work. If all energy was transformed into heat, consumption would be equal to a 2/3 power, but this is more similar to a heater than an organism. On the other hand, if all energy was consumed efficiently, consumption would be directly proportional to the number of cells, that is to say, mass Mbut part of it is inevitably lost as heat. Real organisms balance both extremes. The weighted sum of both components, one proportional to mass M and another to M2/3in other words, B = aM + bM2/3explains the curve observed in the basal metabolism of mammals and the different relations found amongst different animal groups, but also the metabolic differences between desert and polar animals, or even for plant metabolism.

More information: Fernando J. Ballesteros et al. On the thermodynamic origin of metabolic scaling, Scientific Reports (2018). Journal information: Scientific Reports , Nature Fernando J. Ballesteros et al. On the thermodynamic origin of metabolic scaling,(2018). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-19853-6A blood clot forming in the carotid artery. Credit: copyright American Heart Association

Canadians who suffer a stroke have a higher risk of dying if they are treated in a rural hospital rather than an urban one. According to a new study published in PLOS One by Universite Laval researchers, the mortality rate in the months that follow a stroke is approximately 25% higher for patients treated in rural areas.

The team led by Dr. Richard Fleet, a professor at the Universite Laval Faculty of Medicine and holder of the Universite Laval-CISSS Chaudiere-Appalaches Research Chair in Emergency Medicine, came to this conclusion after comparing the mortality rate of stroke victims admitted to 286 rural hospitals and 24 urban hospitals in Canada between 2007 and 2011. Rural hospitals were included in the study if they were located in a community of about 10,000 residents or less and provided 24/7 emergency physician coverage and inpatient beds for acute admissions.

Using data compiled by the Canadian Institute for Health Information, the researchers established that the mortality rate of stroke victims admitted to urban hospitals fluctuated between 14.1 and 16.8% in the five years covered by the study. In rural hospitals, this rate varied from 18.3 to 21%. The discrepancy between the two types of hospitals was observed every year and in every province surveyed.

According to the researchers, this divide could be due to a lack of resources in rural hospitals. Their study reports that only 21% of such hospitals have an intensive care unit and scarcely 11% have a CT scanner. "Not having this device on hand in the hospital deprives doctors of a tool that can help them quickly diagnose a stroke so they can immediately begin the recommended treatment," said Dr. Fleet.

Rural hospital emergency rooms log over 3 million visits every year in Canada, and strokes are one of the main causes of death in the country. "Some 20% of Canadians live in rural areas, and our study raises questions about the principles of our universal healthcare system, which stipulate that all Canadians, regardless of their place of residence, have an equal right to quality health care. It might be time to address the iniquities in health care in rural areas."

It should be noted that Quebec hospitals were not included in the analyses because the province did not provide data to the Canadian Institute for Health Information for the study period. However, a previous study by Professor Fleet's team showed that Quebec's rural hospitals are well equipped compared to those in the rest of Canada: 74% of Quebec's rural hospitals have an intensive care unit and 78% have a CT scanner.

Explore further Patients with atrial fibrillation at greater risk of death in rural hospitals than urban hospitals

More information: Richard Fleet et al, Rural versus urban academic hospital mortality following stroke in Canada, PLOS ONE (2018). Journal information: PLoS ONE Richard Fleet et al, Rural versus urban academic hospital mortality following stroke in Canada,(2018). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191151Province 3 CM Poudel takes oath of office and secrecy

CPN-UML Parliamentary Party leader Dor Mani Paudel took the oath of office and secrecy as the Chief Minister of Province 3 on Monday.UK GPs with dyslexia are just as likely to pass the knowledge component of the licensing exam as their counterparts, a new study has found.

The Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) is part of the qualification needed to become a Member of the Royal College of General Practitioners (MRCGP) and become licensed to practice independently.

Researchers examined pass rates of doctors-in-training who had taken the AKT and found that, once other factors linked to exam success were taken into account, those who declare dyslexia prior to taking their exams do not have lower pass rates.

Candidates who declared dyslexia after initially failing the exam were more likely to be minority ethnic candidates with a primary medical qualification outside of the UK.

The research, led by researchers from the University of Lincoln, UK, in collaboration with the MRCGP examination, compared data from 14,801 candidates who were tested between 2010 and 2015, of whom 379 declared dyslexia. Factors linked to exam success such as age, sex, ethnicity, country of primary medical qualification, stage of training, number of attempts, and the time spent completing tests were taken into account.

Significantly, findings highlight that those who did not declare their dyslexia initially and therefore were not given extra exam support, such as additional time, had higher failure rates. Data showed that overseas candidates were less likely to have initially declared their dyslexia.

Dyslexia affects around 6% of the UK population and around 2% of medical students. Features of dyslexia in adults can include problems with recall, reading, time management and task prioritisation which can make high stakes, multiple choice examinations like the mandatory AKT challenging.

The research has raised questions about dyslexia diagnosis during medical training, especially in those who use English as an additional language, who may not have been tested at an earlier stage in their education. Currently, screening for dyslexia is not routinely provided by those responsible for training GPs.

Lead researcher, Dr Zahid Asghar, Senior Lecturer in statistics at the University of Lincoln said: "Our research has found that, once the candidates' age, gender, stage of training and other demographic traits are taken into account, dyslexia is not associated with lower pass rates in the AKT. However, the fact that doctors from overseas were more likely to declare dyslexia after initially failing the test is a significant finding."

Niroshan Siriwardena, Professor of Primary & Pre-Hospital Health Care at the University of Lincoln, co-author of the study and research and development lead for assessment for the MRCGP said: "Our findings were reassuring for candidates declaring dyslexia in that they performed as well as other candidates taking the exam once other factors had been taken into account.

"The findings have highlighted that we need to look in more detail at screening and educational support for doctors with dyslexia, in particular those from minority ethnic groups, to remove potential barriers and create an inclusive training environment. We advocate more consistent and earlier screening to identify dyslexia as soon as possible during medical training. This is an approach that has proven successful in other clinical settings."

Explore further Study provides clues to the sex difference in dyslexia

More information: Zahid B Asghar et al, Performance of candidates disclosing dyslexia with other candidates in a UK medical licensing examination: cross-sectional study, Postgraduate Medical Journal (2018). Journal information: Postgraduate Medical Journal Zahid B Asghar et al, Performance of candidates disclosing dyslexia with other candidates in a UK medical licensing examination: cross-sectional study,(2018). DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2017-135326This image from a paper in Nature Medicine shows how inhibiting an enzyme called HDAC3 in mice increases the expansion of Schwann cells (green). Schwann cells form a protective insulating layer called the myelin sheath around the nerves. Blocking HDAC3 increases the production of myelin proteins, shown in red. Scientists from Cincinnati Children's tested an experimental molecular therapy in mice that restored nerve insulation and improved limb function following nerve injury. Credit: Cincinnati Children's

When the body attacks its own healthy tissues in an autoimmune disease, peripheral nerve damage handicaps people and causes persistent neuropathic pain when insulation on healing nerves doesn't fully regenerate.

Unfortunately, there are no effective ways to treat the condition. Now scientists at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center describe in Nature Medicine an experimental molecular therapy that restores insulation on peripheral nerves in mice, improves limb function, and results in less observable discomfort.

Published Feb. 12, the study's principal investigator is Q. Richard Lu, PhD, director of the Cincinnati Children's Brain Tumor Center

To identify possible therapies, the international team of investigators performed small-molecule epigenetic screening for compounds that inhibit enzymes involved in epigenetic changes on chromosomes. These changes alter how gene activity in cells is regulated. The authors identified small molecular inhibitors already used to treat certain cancers and tested them in experimental treatments on mice with injured sciatic nerves.

The molecular compounds target the enzyme HDAC3 (histone deacetylase 3). Study data show that HDAC3 inhibits regenerating insulation on recovering peripheral nerves.

"Remarkably, temporary inhibition of HDAC3 robustly accelerated the formation of myelin that helps insulate peripheral nerves," Lu says. "This promoted functional recovery in the animals after peripheral nerve injury."

Restoring Signal Relays

The peripheral nervous system relays signals from the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) to limbs and organs. HDAC3 is an enzyme found in humans and mice. Its usual job in peripheral nerve formation is to act as a molecular brake on the production of the myelin coating by Schwann cells.

After peripheral nerve injury, HDAC3 initiates epigenetic changes to chromosomes and gene regulation that excessively restrict myelin regeneration. This results in nerve insulation that is too thin or not totally formed, blocking or slowing signals between the spinal cord, extremities and organs.

Timing is Crucial

Researchers carefully timed their targeted treatments when inhibiting HDAC3, treating the mouse models of nerve injury only during a critical phase of nerve regeneration. This resulted in the right amount of re-myelination to restore normal function in the animals.

Getting the timing right on transient treatment is critical, Lu says. Researchers show that blocking HDAC3 for too long allows myelin to overgrow and cause excessively thick insulation. This also can lead to functional problems in extremities, according to study data.

From Science to Medicine

Translating data in the current study to clinical application in human patients will require extensive additional research, Lu says. Now that the prospective therapy has been successfully tested in mice, researchers are exploring additional research in animal models that more closely mimic the repair of injured peripheral nerves in people. This includes looking specifically at some demyelinating diseases that affect the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis.

Lu said this work will allow scientists to replicate and verify their findings in mice and other laboratory models. They also will be able to test possible dosing levels. If results are positive, Lu said researchers could pursue possible Phase I clinical trials in patients having deficient myelin in their peripheral and central nervous systems.

Explore further MicroRNA treatment restores nerve insulation, limb function in mice with multiple sclerosis

More information: A histone deacetylase 3dependent pathway delimits peripheral myelin growth and functional regeneration, Nature Medicine, nature.com/articles/doi:10.1038/nm.4483 Journal information: Nature Medicine A histone deacetylase 3dependent pathway delimits peripheral myelin growth and functional regeneration,Banana as a training object: as early as in the first week an ETH medical student learns to sew a wound. Credit: Patt Wettschein, www.photoproduction.ch

With plenty of anticipation, ETH Zurich welcomed the first 100 students to its new Bachelor's degree in human medicine last autumn. The experiences of the first semester have resulted in a lot of enthusiasm  from the lecturers as well as the students.

It's a memorable image: medical students practising stitching wounds on bananas. And it's a perfect example of the new direction that ETH is taking with its medicine programme. "We have designed the new degree programme from the ground up," says ETH Rector Sarah Springman. "For example, the students get to visit a hospital in their first week of study."

Contextual learning

The idea behind this is "contextual learning", something which plays a significant role in ETH Zurich's new degree programme. An example: Monday morning, 8 a.m., the start of a themed week: a slipped disc is depicted. The students have used preparatory videos and other material to work through the theoretical basics of the spine in advance, mainly anatomy. During the course of the week, the topic is discussed by various lecturers from a variety of perspectives. Friday afternoon, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.: the week ends with a clinical flagship lecture and a subsequent discussion.

This kind of teaching, combining theory and clinical application, has found its moment. Director of Studies Christian Wolfrum is delighted with it: "On Monday morning, all the students were there punctually at 8 a.m." When he asks a question, 30 arms shoot up in the air; in other lectures, he is more likely to see nodding heads. "I was a bit blindsided by it at first," he says with a laugh. On Friday evening, the students are still deep in discussion at 6.30 p.m. "All the lecturers are rhapsodising about the motivation of the ETH medical students and the interaction during lectures, even those that teach at other universities," says Wolfrum.

Content that's needed later

The new teaching concept was developed in close collaboration with Manu Kapur, Professor of Learning Sciences, who came to ETH Zurich from Hong Kong a year ago. "Professor Kapur can not only introduce new concepts thanks to his background, but also provides another perspective on medical training," says Professor Jorg Goldhahn, project manager for the medicine programme. The ETH programme therefore aims to provide content that the students will later need as doctors. "It's not about filling the students' heads with as many facts as possible," says Goldhahn, summing up the new approach.

The degree programme was thus structured backwards, led by the question: what will the students need at the end? How must the content be conveyed? This question also affects the examination methods. To be able to authentically test the content, ETH assessments were conducted on tablets for the first time. The new assessment methods aim to help the students learn the content properly.

Spreading to other degree programmes

ETH has the advantage of creating the Bachelor's programme from scratch, offering the space to test new ideas. "And we were fortunate enough to be able to count on the assistance of incredibly motivated colleagues in our partner institutions," says Rector Springman. That includes the hospitals and clinics, but above all the Universities of Zurich and Basel and the Universita della Svizzera italiana, where the ETH undergraduates will complete their Master's. "Our partner institutions provide us with very active support, and we all benefit from the experience," says Springman. For example, new content that proves successful can also be adopted by other degree programmes  not only in ETH, but also further afield.

Explore further More concepts, fewer factsA montage of three images of single striatal neurons transfected with a disease-associated version of huntingtin, the protein that causes Huntington's disease. Nuclei of untransfected neurons are seen in the background (blue). The neuron in the center (yellow) contains an abnormal intracellular accumulation of huntingtin called an inclusion body (orange). Credit: Wikipedia/ Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license

Patients with Huntington's disease, a fatal genetic illness that causes the breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, have up to 80 percent less cancer than the general population.

Northwestern Medicine scientists have discovered why Huntington's is so toxic to cancer cells and harnessed it for a novel approach to treat cancer, a new study reports.

Huntington's is caused by an over abundance of a certain type of repeating RNA sequences in one gene, huntingtin, present in every cell. The defect that causes the disease also is highly toxic to tumor cells. These repeating sequencesin the form of so-called small interfering RNAsattack genes in the cell that are critical for survival. Nerve cells in the brain are vulnerable to this form of cell death, however, cancer cells appear to be much more susceptible.

"This molecule is a super assassin against all tumor cells," said senior author Marcus Peter, the Tom D. Spies Professor of Cancer Metabolism at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. "We've never seen anything this powerful."

Huntington's disease deteriorates a person's physical and mental abilities during their prime working years and has no cure.

The study will be published Feb. 12 in the journal EMBO Reports.

To test the super assassin molecule in a treatment situation, Peter collaborated with Dr. Shad Thaxton, associate professor of urology at Feinberg, to deliver the molecule in nanoparticles to mice with human ovarian cancer. The treatment significantly reduced the tumor growth with no toxicity to the mice, Peter said. Importantly, the tumors did not develop resistance to this form of cancer treatment.

Peter and Thaxton are now refining the delivery method to increase its efficacy in reaching the tumor. The other challenge for the scientists is figuring out how to stabilize the nanoparticles, so they can be stored.

First and co-corresponding author Andrea Murmann, research assistant professor in medicine at Feinberg, also used the molecule to treat human and mouse ovarian, breast, prostate, liver, brain, lung, skin and colon cancer cell lines. The molecule killed all cancer cells in both species.

The Huntington's cancer weapon was discovered by Murmann, who had worked with Peter on earlier research that identified an ancient kill-switch present in all cells that destroys cancer.

"I thought maybe there is a situation where this kill switch is overactive in certain people, and where it could cause loss of tissues," Murmann said. "These patients would not only have a disease with an RNA component, but they also had to have less cancer."

She started searching for diseases that have a lower rate of cancer and had a suspected contribution of RNA to disease pathology. Huntington's was the most prominent.

When she looked at the repeating sequences in huntingtin, the gene that causes the disease, she saw a similar composition to the earlier kill switch Peter had found. Both were rich in the C and G nucleotides (molecules that form the building blocks of DNA and RNA).

"Toxicity goes together with C and G richness," Murmann said. "Those similarities triggered our curiosity."

In the case of people who have Huntington's, the gene huntingtin has too many repeating sequences of the triplet sequence CAG. The longer the repeating sequence, the earlier they will develop the disease.

"We believe a short-term treatment cancer therapy for a few weeks might be possible, where we could treat a patient to kill the cancer cells without causing the neurological issues that Huntington's patients suffer from," Peter said.

Peter also is co-leader of the Translational Research in Solid Tumors Program at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

Huntington's patients have a lifetime exposure to these toxic RNA sequences, but generally don't develop symptoms of the disease until age 40, he noted.

Every child of a parent with Huntington's has 50/50 chance of carrying the faulty gene. Today, there are approximately 30,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease.

Explore further Suicide molecules kill any cancer cell(HealthDay)A variety of emotions can arise when kids go off to college and start on their adult life.

Research done at the University of Kansas shows that being able to communicate through texting and other channels can help you feel more connected and have a more satisfying relationship with your grown kids.

Gone are the days when you had to wait by the phone for a call from your college student. Today you can sendand receivetext messages and emails anytime. And video chats let you have a "face-to-face" conversation even when you're thousands of miles away from each other.

What's more, the more mediums you use, the better. According to the Kansas survey results from nearly 370 participants aged 18 to 29, those with the most satisfying parent relationships used three different methods of communication.

Explore all these channels of communication:



Cellphone

Texting

Email

Video calls

Social media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat

Another important survey finding was that dads often need to make more of an effort to use the more non-traditional toolsmoms adopt them more easily. For parents who have a harder time with verbal communication, sending e-messages might actually be a comfortable way to reach out, to let your grown child know how much you care, and share information to stay close.

Finally, frequency counts. As surprising as it might sound, more communication is appreciated by college students. Especially when the messages are casual textslike "good luck on that test"just to maintain contact, rather than to convey important pieces of information.

Explore further Relationships benefit when parents and adult children use multiple communication channels

More information: Learn more about the survey research findings on Learn more about the survey research findings on communicating with your college kids on this University of Kansas site.

Copyright  2018 HealthDay. All rights reserved.People with learning disabilities are suffering from a far greater number of illnesses than had been previously understood, adding to concerns that life-threatening conditions are being routinely missed.

A new study, published in BMJ Open, based on detailed clinical assessments of over 1,000 adults found that nearly all of them suffered from 'multi-morbidity', or the co-existence of different health conditions ranging from obesity, constipation to poor eyesight, with rates far higher than previously thought.

These findings, by the Scottish Learning Disabilities Observatory follow concerns that people with learning disabilities are dying from treatable conditions.

Previous studies in the UK and internationally reporting on multi-morbidity have not gone into the level of detail seen in this research. Dr. Deborah Kinnear, Research Fellow at the Observatory, called for greater awareness amongst clinicians and carers of the types of conditions that are commonly experienced by adults with learning disabilities.

"Understanding both the types of conditions that people with learning disabilities experience and the fact that they are more likely to experience a greater combination of these conditions is vital if we are to provide effective treatment and stop people dying from preventable illnesses. Clinicians and carers may sometimes miss conditions, or misattribute symptoms to the individual's learning disabilities (also known as diagnostic overshadowing). This can be compounded by communication difficulties experienced by people with learning disabilities and the fact that conditions experienced by people with learning disabilities differ to those commonly seen in the general population." Dr. Kinnear said.

This unique study analysed the results of detailed clinical assessments of 1,023 adults with learning disabilities in Scotland. Over 98.7% of people were found to have more than one physical health condition and the average number of conditions for each person was 11 with one person having 28 co-existing health conditions. Some of the most common conditions found among study participants were: visual impairment, obesity, epilepsy, constipation and movement disorders. Many of these conditions are painful, disabling and can be potentially life threatening. But with effective identification and care the majority could have been prevented or treated.

The research was led by the Scottish Learning Disabilities Observatory which is funded by the Scottish Government and based in the Institute of Health and Wellbeing at the University of Glasgow.

Professor Anna Cooper, Director of the Observatory, said: "These findings are important because they highlight critical differences in the pattern of health for the population with learning disabilities, with people in this population experiencing, on average 11 different conditions at any one time. The average age of the people assessed was only 43 years so we are seeing complex combinations of health problems arising for people with learning disabilities across all ages, young and old. These findings should help NHS organisations to provide improved care pathways for people with learning disabilities."

Explore further Adults with learning disabilities at greater risk of sight problems

More information: Prevalence of physical conditions and multimorbidity in a cohort of adults with intellectual disabilities with and without Down syndrome: cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2018;8:e018292. Journal information: BMJ Open Prevalence of physical conditions and multimorbidity in a cohort of adults with intellectual disabilities with and without Down syndrome: cross-sectional study.2018;8:e018292. DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018292Credit: Cancer Research UK

Doctors should use a specialised type of scan to help decide if patients with pancreatic cancer may benefit from surgery, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

New guidance from NICE says a PET-CT scan should be used early in the process of diagnosing pancreatic cancer. It is thought that the scans will give doctors more accurate information on how advanced the disease is.

Professor Mark Baker, director of the centre for guidelines at NICE, said giving patients the PET-CT scan could have a significant impact on the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer.

"It will mean that the staging process is more effective so that patients stand a better chance of getting the right treatment, at the right time," he said.

Deciding on treatment

Around 9,600 people in the UK are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year and survival is stubbornly low.

Surgery is most effective for patients if their disease has been diagnosed early.

NICE estimates that using the PET-CT scan to determine the stage of pancreatic cancer will reduce the number of NHS surgeries to remove these tumours by around 20%. This means that patients with more advanced pancreatic cancer will not undergo surgery that they are unlikely to benefit from.

This would help limit the side effects of surgery. And NICE said those who are not suitable for surgery will then be able to access chemotherapy treatment sooner.

It could also then free up theatre time for other patients.

Professor Andrew Biankin, Cancer Research UK's pancreatic cancer expert, approved of the new guidelines and said they were "an important step forward in making treatment selection for pancreatic cancer patients more precise."

How does a PET-CT work?

A PET-CT scan is a type of imaging machine that combines a CT scan and a PET scan. It gives doctors detailed information about a person's cancer, including the size of the tumour and whether it has spread.

The CT scan takes a series of x-rays around the body and the PET scan uses a radioactive drug to highlight areas in the body where cells are more active than normal.

Biankin added that more research was needed to look at how to better personalise pancreatic cancer treatment.

"We now need to work on better ways to select the best treatment for an individual, which will require testing and imaging at a molecular level," he said.

"At Cancer Research UK, our Flagship Programme PRECISION Panc, based in Glasgow, is working on ways to do just that.

"This programme aims to find the right clinical trial for the patient by offering cutting edge molecular testing of their cancer. The patient can then take part in a trial that's testing out new drugs that better match their individual tumour."

Explore further A groundbreaking pancreatic cancer trial aims to match patients with more targeted and effective treatm

More information: Paula Ghaneh et al. PET-PANC: multicentre prospective diagnostic accuracy and health economic analysis study of the impact of combined modality 18fluorine-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography with computed tomography scanning in the diagnosis and management of pancreatic cancer, Health Technology Assessment (2018). Paula Ghaneh et al. PET-PANC: multicentre prospective diagnostic accuracy and health economic analysis study of the impact of combined modality 18fluorine-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography with computed tomography scanning in the diagnosis and management of pancreatic cancer,(2018). DOI: 10.3310/hta22070Section through a zebrafish heart after injury. Cardiomyocytes of the external heart wall are shown in blue. The regenerated tissue visible at the bottom of the image contains some green-stained cardiomyocytes, indicating their origin in the internal part of the heart (red) and their conversion to cells of the myocardial wall. Credit: CNIC

Some animals, including the zebrafish, have a high capacity to regenerate tissues, allowing them to recovery fully after cardiac injury. During this process, the heart muscle cells divide to replace the damaged tissue. However, there has been uncertainty about whether all cells contribute equally to the reconstruction of the heart wall. Now, a team of scientists led by Nadia Mercader at the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (CNIC) and the University of Bern (Switzerland), working with collaborators at the University of Zurich (Switzerland), have discovered a high level of plasticity among the cells of the zebrafish heart muscle. The study is published in Nature Communications.

After a heart attack, the human heart loses millions of cardiomyocytes, the cells that form the muscle wall. In contrast, other animal species have a high regenerative capacity, enabling them to replace the injured myocardium with new cardiomyocytes. One such species is the zebrafish (Danio rerio). According to first author Hector Sanchez-Iranzo, the zebrafish "is a widely used model system in cardiovascular research into the mechanisms controlling regeneration, and an inspiration for attempts to develop future regenerative therapies."

The ability of the zebrafish heart to reestablish its function after injury depends on the capacity of its cardiomyocytes to divide and repopulate the infarcted area, thus eliminating the damaged tissue. Unfortunately, the hearts of most animals, including humans, are unable to activate this process, and therefore after an infarction the human heart cannot regenerate the lost muscle, which is replaced by non-functional scar tissue.

Cell plasticity

Before the new study, scientists did not know if all cardiomyocytes in the zebrafish heart shared the same regenerative ability or if they were equally able to regenerate all zones of the heart muscle. Cell plasticity, the ability of cells to convert themselves into another cell type, is frequently observed during embryonic development, but has never before been reported during tissue regeneration in an adult organism.

In the study, the authors investigated two types of cardiomyocyte, one localized in the innermost heart regions, the trabeculae, and the other in the exterior heart wall. Scientists had presumed that during regeneration each cardiomyoctye population would give rise only to the same specialized cell type. But the CNIC study shows that cardiomyocytes from the trabeculae can contribute to the regeneration of the external heart wall. The researchers conclude that their results "reveal a high level of plasticity among zebrafish cardiomyocytes and that there is more than one way to rebuild a damaged heart."

Explore further Cardiomyocytes fuse when the heart grows and regenerates

More information: Hector Sanchez-Iranzo et al, Tbx5a lineage tracing shows cardiomyocyte plasticity during zebrafish heart regeneration, Nature Communications (2018). Journal information: Nature Communications Hector Sanchez-Iranzo et al, Tbx5a lineage tracing shows cardiomyocyte plasticity during zebrafish heart regeneration,(2018). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02650-6

Provided by Centro Nacional de Investigaciones CardiovascularesIt is difficult for doctors to diagnose epilepsy as they usually do not observe the symptoms in a patient, but a blood test could overcome this challenge. Credit: picture is in public domain

A finger-prick blood test to diagnose epilepsy could be available within five years, according to scientists who are using tell-tale molecules called biomarkers to overcome current diagnostic problems and guide treatment.

More than 50 million people are affected by epilepsy worldwide. However, diagnosing the disease remains challenging and treatments are often unsuccessful: only 70% of patients taking anti-epileptic drugs are seizure-free.

"Diagnosis of epilepsy is really difficult," explained David Henshall, professor of molecular physiology and neuroscience at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. "Seizures are the main clinical symptom for the disease but it is very rare that a doctor will witness the patient having a seizure. This makes epilepsy completely different from Parkinson's disease, for example, where the doctor can observe the symptoms."

One of the most common tests for epilepsy is an electroencephalogram (EEG), which detects abnormal electrical activity in the brain. "The problem is that a lot of people with epilepsy have normal EEGs, while others may have abnormal EEGs but do not have epilepsy," said Prof. Henshall. "That's why we need a better test."

An ideal solution would be a simple blood test that detects biomarkers  the tell-tale molecular signs that someone has epilepsy. Prof. Henshall leads the EPIMIRNA consortium which has been studying micro RNA (miRNA)  micro ribonucleic acid, molecules which can influence genes  to see if these could be the key to diagnosing epilepsy.

By comparing the levels of several miRNA molecules in the blood of healthy volunteers with levels in epilepsy patients, the researchers can see which ones are associated with epilepsy.

"We have identified a set of miRNAs that are consistently changed in the blood levels of people with epilepsy," Prof Henshall said.

Seizures

One of the promising applications of this finding will be in helping doctors to distinguish between patients with epilepsy and those who have seizures for other reasons. "There is a challenging group of patients who have non-epileptic seizures or psychogenic attacks (seizures of psychological origin)," he said.

"These patients are often put on epilepsy drugs for long periods before it is realised that they do not have epilepsy. We found that (people in that) group have normal levels of epilepsy-related miRNAs  it's one of our most valuable findings."

The group is now working with chemists to develop a prototype device that can detect low levels of these biomarkers in the blood. If successful, a finger-prick blood test, similar to a blood glucose test used in diabetes patients  could be available within five years.

Once diagnosed, the challenge becomes finding the right treatment. Not all epilepsy patients are the same and a drug that works well in one patient might not prevent seizures in another. Many patients try several drugs before finding the one that best suits them.

However, by combining biomarkers and other tools  such as brain scans  researchers hope to help doctors choose the right treatment for the right patient every time.

"Single biomarkers have not been very successful (in guiding treatments) because epilepsy is a complex condition with multiple processes involved," said Merab Kokaia, professor of neurology at Lund University in Sweden. "Combinational biomarkers could improve diagnosis but also improve outcomes by beginning treatment earlier."

If doctors know which brain processes are involved in a patient's epilepsy, they can predict how the disease will develop and perhaps even stop it in its tracks.

Biomarkers

Prof. Kokaia leads the EPITARGET project which has identified biomarkers in the blood that could lead to more tailored treatments. These includes miRNAs and a protein known as HMGB1, amongst others.

One of the key areas of interest is the effect of trauma on the brain. People who have suffered traumatic brain injury are at higher risk of developing epilepsy, but only 20-25% actually develop the condition. Before a patient begins to suffer epileptic seizures, several changes in the brain take place. This gradual process, known as epileptogenesis, could be arrested through early treatment.

"Using selective and specific reliable biomarkers, we want to identify patients at risk so that we can treat them and perhaps prevent the development of epilepsy," said Prof. Kokaia. "We have shown that this is possible in animals and will test it in humans."

Identifying biomarkers and changes to brain structures may ultimately lead to new treatments that target the molecules shown to be active in epilepsy. "Combining biomarkers is key," said Prof Kokaia. "It could make treatment more personalised in the years to come."

All research in this article is funded by the EU. The key findings from these and other epilepsy research projects will be presented at the epiXchange conference in Brussels, Belgium on 23 May.

The Issue

Approximately 6 million people in Europe suffer from epilepsy, a chronic brain disorder that is characterised by recurrent seizures. It affects people of all ages.

Over the last decade the EU allocated around 176 million in funding for research into dianostic tools and therapeutic interventions for epilepsy.

In 2011, the European Parliament submitted a written declaration on epilepsy which led to the 2015 establishment of the European Reference Network for the care of individuals with rare and complex epilepsies.

Explore further Brain waves may predict and potentially prevent epilepsyPeople born with heart defects who survive into adulthood may be at higher risk of developing dementia, particularly dementia that starts before 65 years of age, according to new research in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation.

With improved newborn and childhood treatments, more people born with heart defects survive into adulthood. A 2016 study published in Circulation estimated that approximately 1.4 million adults are living with congenital heart defects in the United States.

"Previous studies showed that people born with heart defects have a higher risk of neurodevelopmental problems in childhood, such as epilepsy and autism, but this is, to our knowledge, the first study to examine the potential for dementia later in adult life," said Carina N. Bagge, B.Sc., lead author of the study and a medical student in the Department of Clinical Epidemiology at Aarhus University Hospital in Aarhus, Denmark.

Using national medical databases and records covering all Danish hospitals, the researchers examined the occurrence of dementia in 10,632 mostly Caucasian adults (46 percent male) born with heart defects between 1890 and 1982 (most between 1960 and 1982), matching each with 10 members of the general population of the same gender born the same year.

Researchers found the risk of dementia from any cause, including vascular dementia, Alzheimer's disease and others, in people born with heart defects in Denmark was:

60 percent higher overall than the general population;

160 percent (2.6 times) higher for early-onset dementia (diagnosed before age 65);

30 percent higher for dementia diagnosed after age 65.

The study was observational, which means that the researchers were examining individuals with heart defects over time to see if there was an association between being born with a heart defect and developing dementia later in life. While they did find an association, the study does not mean that every person who was born with a heart defect will develop dementia. The study observed a higher risk, but did not prove cause and effect.

Heart defects are the most common group of birth defects, occurring in 4 to 10 of every 1,000 live births in the United States and 8 to 10 out of every 1,000 live births in Denmark'.

"Our study involved an older population born when treatments for heart defects were more limited. Modern treatment has improved greatly, and as a result we can't directly generalize these results to children born today. We need further work to understand the risks in the modern era," Bagge said.

Dementia or cognitive impairment is often progressive, and can be caused by many factors, including reduced blood flow to the brain, strokes and Alzheimer's disease. People with dementia may have problems with memory, reasoning, behavior and other mental functions.

In this study, the risk of dementia was higher in people born with heart defects who developed other heart disease risk factors later in life, such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and diabetes. These risk factors are more common in people born with heart defects than in the general population, and they have also been shown to independently raise the risk of dementia.

"While we must be careful to appreciate these findings within the limitations of the study design, continued study of this association may yield important clinical screening and medical management strategies in the future, and there may even be opportunities discovered to aid in the prevention of dementia in this population," said Nicolas L. Madsen, M.D., M.P.H., senior author of the study and assistant professor of pediatrics at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Explore further Increased risk of vascular dementia in heart attack survivorsSadhus throng Pashupatinath Temple for Maha Shivaratri (In photos)

With the Maha Shivaratri festival less than a day away, preparations are in full swing for one of the biggest Hindu festivals dedicated to the Lord Shiva.2017 was a challenging year for many IT companies in South Africa, who battled a sluggish economy and a tough political environment.

2018 looks much better so far, with business and consumer confidence returning to the market, and companies looking to invest in their IT and telecoms systems.

MyBroadband spoke to Mpumi Nhlapo, head of marketing and demand management at T-Systems South Africa, who shared his views on the local ICT market and T-Systems SAs plans for the year.

What were T-Systems SAs highlights in 2017?

A big highlight for me was the announcement that Microsoft would be bringing the Azure cloud to South Africa, hosting the environment locally. T-Systems is partnering with Microsoft to leverage Azure to assist South African customers to maximise their Microsoft investments within the hyperscale cloud environment. Another highlight was the annual T-Systems INTOUCH TECHNOLOGY 2017 event, where key customers and partners were able to spend a day talking about the future of digitisation and the way in which it is shaping various industries such as retail, manufacturing, and automotive. The ability to see the changes that digital transformation is bringing about, as well as the chance to help organisations who are embarking on their transformation journey is truly inspiring. Finally, last year brought about a greater awareness of the importance of connectivity for businesses and society on the whole. In response, civil society began putting pressure on corporates and government to lower the price of data  a pressure that will continue to grow with a greater voice and sense of cohesion.

What trends do you expect to see this year?

I expect that there will be increased competition between telecoms providers, especially around mobile data and broadband services. While there is a strong hope that this will help drive down data costs, I do believe that we will also see some exciting, innovative new product and service offerings that will add value and make access to connectivity easier. IoT gained a lot of traction last year, with many conversations entering around use cases for this technology. As organisations gear up to invest in rolling out IoT projects, I believe there will be significant investments made by major players as well as new players, in network infrastructure dedicated to IoT. The cost of running IoT over existing mobile networks is too high for practicality, so we will see an increase in the deployment of lower cost, low frequency, high range networks. There will also be a stronger focus on cyber security, specifically around identity and access management. Last year saw a surge in cyber-attacks, many of which were highly publicised. This year, especially with PoPI and GDPR coming into play, data privacy and security will become of paramount importance.

What can people expect from T-Systems in 2018?Microsoft announced last year that it will deliver cloud services from data centres in Johannesburg and Cape Town in 2018.

Services offered will include Microsoft Azure, Office 365, and Dynamics 365.

Speaking at the Microsoft Tech Summit in Cape Town, Azure Marketing General Manager Victoria Grady said South Africa must prepare for the launch of Azure data centres.

Grady said there is no reason for potential cloud customers to wait before familiarising themselves with cloud solutions, and they should be prepared to take advantage of Azures features as soon as the platform launches.

Microsoft has not stated who it will partner with for the local data centres, but an industry source previously told MyBroadband that two data centre players will be involved  a different one for each city.

The launch of the local data centres will allow for the adoption of latency-dependent cloud-based applications in South Africa.

Microsofts reach currently covers 42 regions, and its coverage includes at least two physical data centre locations to account for disaster recovery.

Customers

Microsoft also stated it plans to launch a preview programme ahead of the live Azure launch in South Africa to assist customers in adopting the technology.

The company confirmed the Azure preview programme will be available to the public.

Grady said that hybrid cloud implementations, education, and cost-effective plans were crucial to the successful on-boarding of potential Azure customers.

Many South African organisations run on legacy systems which can be difficult to directly move to a cloud-based environment if approached incorrectly.

Grady said services such as partnered digital advisers, cloud cost management, and Azure Stack deployments can be used to improve the efficiency of moving legacy systems to fully cloud-based systems.

Microsoft did not confirm a launch date for Azure data centres in South Africa, but said they would be deployed in 2018.

Now read: Microsoft sales get Azure boostWith a smartphone in every persons pocket these days, the reliability of a devices battery is crucial.

Due to the restrictions of early cellphone batteries, owners were advised to let the battery drain completely before charging it again  along with other safety and reliability tips.

While the lithium-ion batteries used in modern smartphones are far more reliable than their predecessors, users worry that their charging habits are hurting battery capacity.

The answer as to how to correctly charge and maintain a lithium-ion battery has received many answers from experts over the years  several of them conflicting at a fundamental level.

We examined evidence and expert opinions to determine if any of these charging myths have merit.

Charging to 100%

Speaking to The Verge, Princeton associate professor Daniel Steingart said the easiest thing to do is to just keep the device plugged in all the time, or as much as you can.

A smartphones software will recognise when its battery is charged and will stop charging the device.

This means you technically cant overcharge your device, and it should be fine to charge it to 100%, or leave it on overnight.

ACCESS director Venkat Srinivasan refuted Steingarts assertion, however, saying that you should never charge your battery to 100%.

Get it up to 90%, and then stop it, he said.

Srinivasan said users should keep their batteries between 30-80%, as once they reach 100%, certain reactions can occur which degrade electrolytes and decrease battery capacity.

Steingart agreed that this process occurs, but said keeping your device at 100% does not worsen the severity of these reactions.

This means that once you charge your device to 100%, you can keep it fully charged as long as you like. Keeping your device in the 30-80% battery range could increase its lifespan, though.

Charging overnight

Samsung has said charging your device overnight is not a good idea, and that leaving your phone connected to a charger when it is fully charged could lower battery life.

Technically, you should not be charging your phone for extended spans of time  so overnight phone charging is a big no, it said.

Avoid charging it to 100% and then leaving it connected to a charger.

It agreed with Srinivasans assertion that Lithium-Ion batteries perform better if you do not charge them to 100%.

Overcharging a lithium-ion battery can cause a plating of metallic lithium to form on the cells, compromising safety.

According to Battery University, most lithium-ion batteries used in smartphones are of the cobalt-blended variety, which means they are vulnerable to this stress.

Device manufacturers account for this, however, by stopping the flow of current into the battery when it is fully charged.

Battery University recommends turning off your device when charging it for an extended amount of time, although the amount of stress placed on your device by a continuous charge would depend on your devices charging control hardware.

Full depletion

Fully depleting your battery before charging it in order to train it is an old myth, according to Galeas Consulting president Bruno Scap.

Scap said that certain batteries may even disable themselves as a safety mechanism if they are discharged too much.

In fact, lithium-ion batteries function at their best when above a 50% charge, as repeatedly draining the battery may shorten its lifespan and decrease overall capacity.

Samsung advised users to keep their battery above 50%, agreeing that draining the device many times could shorten its lifespan.

One full drain a month is allowed for calibration purposes, but anything more than this will shorten your batterys lifespan.

It is important to note that the durability and capacity decay of the lithium-ion batteries used in smartphones are measured in cycles, which consist of full 0-100% discharges and recharges.

If you want your battery to last as many cycles as it can before it degrades, experts recommend constantly keeping the device above 50%, but below 80%, turning it off when charging, and never allowing it to deplete fully or to become fully charged.

The increased lifespan gained by following these tips has not been measured, however, and may not be significant in many cases.YEREVAN.  An exclusive interview of the Defense Minister of Artsakh, the commander of the Defense Army, Lieutenant-General Levon Mnatsakanyan to the Armenian News - NEWS.am.

A regular monitoring of the OSCE took place at the line of contact between the Armed Forces of Artsakh and Azerbaijan. The monitoring itself passed without incident, but soon after it was over, a soldier of Artsakh was killed by a shot from the Azerbaijani side. How do you generally assess the situation at the line of contact?

It can be described as a situation of neither war, nor peace, nor stability, nor tension. This was the situation in 2017, and it also continues at present. Indeed, the OSCE monitoring took place, and, as we know, the region was visited by the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs. During the monitoring, violations were not recorded. But as soon as the OSCE representatives left the contact line, the adversary started shooting. This, by the way, is the usual behavior of the Azerbaijani side, and I repeatedly reported such facts to the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk. The adversary has been recently using small arms more, but in the past there have been cases of mortars and guns. There were cases when the ambassador was still on his way from the line of contact when violations occurred. The enemys behavior indicates that statements about the readiness to observe the ceasefire regime are being made exclusively to distract attention. They say that they are ready to observe the regime, but the reality is different. The last incident is an additional confirmation of this.

It has been much spoken about the increasing Kasprzyks team and the introduction of mechanisms for investigating the incidents. If there is an obvious opposition from Azerbaijan in regards of the second issue, it seems, there is progress on the first. Do you think expanding of the Kasprzyks team will yield effective results?

Of course, to some extent, there is a need to expand the team of the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office. The more field assistants, the more opportunities for observation and control. However, the matter is not about the numbers or the composition of the team, but rather Bakus manifestation of the will to create an atmosphere of trust. Is this really what they want? If they want it, they need to show the will and agree to increase the team. From our side, there is always a will to create an atmosphere of trust, to reduce tension. From the Azerbaijani side, work is also under way to introduce a video surveillance system. Not on such a scale as on our side, but that's enough. During the visit of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs to Stepanakert, we presented the possibilities of our video surveillance system and information that identifies the real violator. We have always expressed our willingness to promote the implementation of incident investigation mechanisms. As a Defense Minister of Artsakh and the commander of the Defense Army, I stated this from the first meeting with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Ambassador Kasprzyk, and I remain true to my opinion. Mr. Ambassador agrees that mechanisms need to be introduced. Time will show to what extent it will be possible.

The Armenian side has repeatedly expressed the opinion on the benefits of direct contacts between local commanders to prevent the escalation of the situation in the event of an incident. What do you think of it?

We are ready for this. But practice shows that the enemy is not ready. It is not uncommon for the Azerbaijani side not to lead the group to a previously agreed place during the OSCE monitoring and the reasons are made up. This will be confirmed by the observers. There were cases of violations during monitoring, even the sad fact of wounding a serviceman from our side. That is, from the Azerbaijani side, the violations are of a permanent nature, and the guarantees that are given at the time of monitoring are also not a deterrent.

From the Azerbaijani side, there are regular statements about purchase of heavy weapons. How true are these reports?

I have already expressed my opinion on the matter. Indeed, Azerbaijan spends huge money on the purchase of weapons. It is possible that some of this money is written off, appearing in the pockets of officials. However, in practice, the situation is different from what Baku is trying to show. In the northern direction we have recently had an opportunity to observe such an example of modern weapons, and showed it in the media. A usual amateur drone, and this is not the first such case. Azerbaijan buys weapons, but not in the amount that it tries to present.

What conclusions were made after the April aggression of 2016?

Naturally, after each incident, a thorough analysis is conducted. This was done after April 2016. All the events and actions were analyzed, all conclusions were drawn, and colossal work was carried out on their results. The emphasis is on the equipment of the leading edge, improving the conditions for combat duty, increasing the security of employees at the forefront, increasing combat and logistics support, improving management efficiency, improving the CCTV system. That is, the work was conducted in all directions. And this work continues. You can say, do not compare what was, and what is. But we were not satisfied with what has been achieved, we do not believe that this is enough, and the work continues.

Russian weapons sale to Azerbaijan is matter of concern. What is your opinion on the matter?

Bakus aspiration to use all possible channels for the purchase of weapons is natural. And it is also clear that Azerbaijan cannot replace weapons purchased in Russia by supplies from other countries, for example, Turkey. In the first case, there remains some control over the equipment and quantity, as well as levers of influence, if necessary. For our part, we purchase all the armaments we need. As for statements about the lack of balance, lets remember the balance was violated prior to 1992, but the matter is whether this gave the Azerbaijani side an advantage and what was the result. In 1992, we performed our task brilliantly. And the ceasefire regime is still preserved for a reason, thanks to the strength of the weapon. I am confident that the Armed Forces, in spite of the various purchases on the side of Baku, will honorably fulfill their tasks.

One of the elements of the struggle is propaganda. It's no secret that Azerbaijan spends enormous money for these purposes. What about the Karabakh side?

Propaganda really matters. But we must remember that there are two directions: real propaganda and disinformation. These are different things. Azerbaijan spends a lot of money on spreading disinformation, and everyone understands this. There are certain figures, including foreigners, who are trying to support Baku. But I would not even call these people supporters or friends of Azerbaijan. For them such behavior is business, which brings them benefit. On our side, propaganda is something that is based on facts and history, and both domestic and foreign historical sources are used. The Armenian side is working based on the evidences. So the methods of propaganda are incomparable.

The other day the President of Azerbaijan made another aggressive statement, promising to return Yerevan. How would you comment on this?

They used to say they want to drink tea in Shushi and raise the flag over Stepanakert. Prior to the April events (2016  Ed.) they made ambitious statements and conducted surveys. Such statements are targeted at the internal audience. The elections will be held in Azerbaijan. Why to change the election date, if the Aliyevs regime has power and the situation is calm?

Unfortunately, there are still incidents in the army not related to the actions of the enemy. What is your assessment of the situation?

The analysis of the situation shows that from the year 2015 there has been a decrease in the number of fatalities. Some growth is recorded in the number of incidents associated with military hazing. Of course, any number is worrying, but the objective reality is that the number of fatal incidents has been declining in recent years. As for military hazing, we are implementing awareness-raising activities.

Karabakh is the birthplace of numerous famous military commanders. What about the training of personnel?

The alma mater of our officers is the Vazgen Sargsyan Military Institute. Our officers are also trained in some foreign military universities. I Have the Honor program is underway. There are those who want to participate in the program, and after completing their studies at the university they will start serving in the Armed Forces. That is, the officers get education not in the military institutions only.

Photo by Arsen Sargsyan/NEWS.amArmenia Deputy PM participates in session of Eurasian Economic Commission's Council

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Newspaper: Opposition Armenia bloc itself to not run in upcoming local elections

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About 50 soldiers and police officers killed after attacks in Myanmar

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Chief Ministers elected to seven provinces are set to take oath and run provincial governments for the first time in Nepals history, following the selection of Prithvi Subba Gurung as parliamentary party leader of Province 4 on Sunday.YEREVAN.  Azerbaijans actions have led to the fact that now we can speak solely about numerous missed opportunities, regardless of whether or not it was elections period in the country.

The President of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, stated about the aforesaid at Mondays joint news conference with his visiting Bulgarian counterpart, Rumen Radev.

In the Armenian presidents words, the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) conflict can be resolved only if Azerbaijan abandons its maximalist approach.

At the same time, the President stressed that Armenia has repeatedly stated about its readiness to continue the peace talks under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group and to resolve this conflict.

Also, the President thanked Bulgaria for its balanced position on this matter, and he noted that it has always supported the position of the European Union (EU) and favored a pacific settlement of the Karabakh conflict.

At the same time, Sargsyan recalled that the framework agreement, which Armenia signed with the EU in November of the year past, contains a clear wording on the conflict.

Serzh Sargsyan added that the EU countries will ratify this document and it will gain legal force for them, and with all its results.Whither political stability?

The desire for political stability has become important for every one of us, precisely because of the perpetual political instability that Nepal has been undergoing for more than half a century.Geophysicists have obtained detailed three-dimensional images of a dangerous megathrust fault west of Costa Rica where two plates of the Earth's crust collide. The images reveal features of the fault surface, including long grooves or corrugations, that may determine how the fault will slip in an earthquake.

The study, published February 12 in Nature Geoscience, focused on the Costa Rica subduction zone where the Cocos plate slowly dives beneath the overriding Caribbean plate. Variations in texture seen in different portions of the fault surface may explain why Costa Rica has complex, patchy earthquakes that do not seem to slip to shallow depths, unlike some other megathrust faults, said first author Joel Edwards, a Ph.D. candidate in Earth and planetary sciences at UC Santa Cruz.

Our new imagery shows large variability in the conditions along the megathrust, which may be linked to a number of earthquake phenomena we observe in the region, Edwards said.

Great earthquakes

Megathrusts, the huge continuous faults found in subduction zones, are responsible for Earth's largest earthquakes. Megathrust earthquakes can generate destructive tsunamis and are a serious hazard facing communities located near subduction zones. Understanding the mechanisms at work along these faults is vital for disaster management around the globe.

Edwards worked with a team of geophysicists at UC Santa Cruz, the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Texas-Austin, and McGill University to obtain 3-dimensional imagery of the fault interface using cutting-edge acoustic imaging technology. The long grooves, or corrugations, they observed along the interface are similar in size to those found along the base of fast-flowing glaciers and along some ocean ridges. The images also showed varying amounts of smoothness and corrugations on different portions of the fault.

This study produced an unprecedented view of the megathrust. Such 3-D information is critical to our ability to better understand megathrust faults and associated hazards worldwide, said coauthor Jared Kluesner, a geophysicist at the USGS in Santa Cruz.

The acoustic dataset was collected in spring 2011 on the academic research vessel Marcus G. Langseth. The ship towed an array of underwater microphones and sound sources behind it as it made a series of overlapping loops over the area of the fault. The data were processed over the next 2 years and have since been used in a number of studies looking at different aspects of the subduction zone process. This particular study focused on the interface between the sliding plates, which serves as a record of slip and slip processes.

The 3-D site selection was really good and the resulting acoustic dataset showed extraordinary detail, said Edwards, noting that coauthor Emily Brodsky, professor of Earth and planetary sciences, was the first to recognize the corrugations. Such features had been observed in exposed faults on land, but never before in a fault deep beneath the surface.

I had an early rendition of the interface that vaguely showed long grooves, and during my qualifying exam, Brodsky saw them and asked, are those corrugations!? I didnt know, but I knew they were real features. Slip-derived corrugations was a really neat hypothesis, and we dug into it after that, he said.

Target for drilling

The area in this study had long been a target for drilling into the megathrust by the Costa Rica Seismic Project (CRISP). Coauthor Eli Silver, professor emeritus of Earth and planetary sciences at UC Santa Cruz, and others in the CRISP program decided to pursue a 3-D seismic study, which must precede any deep drilling, and the project was funded by the National Science Foundation in 2009. At present, two drilling expeditions have been accomplished with shallower targets, and, though not yet scheduled, we are hopeful that the deep drilling will occur, Silver said.

Researchers hope to use similar imaging techniques on other subduction zones, such as the Cascadia margin along the northern U.S. west coast, where there is a long history of large megathrust earthquakes and related tsunamis. Conducting this type of 3-D study along the Cascadia margin could provide us with key information along the megathrust, a plate boundary that poses a substantial hazard risk to the U.S. west coast, Kluesner said.

In addition to Edwards, Kluesner, Silver, and Brodksy, the coauthors of the paper include Danny Brothers at the USGS; Nathan Bangs at University of Texas, Austin; Jamie Kirkpatrick at McGill University; and Ruby Wood and Kristina Okamoto, both undergraduates at UC Santa Cruz.Home | News | General | More companies flout NSEs post listing requirements

Conoil, Academy Press, Niger Insurance, 18 others involved

NSE imposes N132m as penalty for default

Shareholders advocate sanctions on directors

By Peter Egwuatu

THE number of companies flouting the post listing requirement of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, regarding timely disclosure of financial performance rose by 37.5 percent in 2017, prompting shareholders to call for sanctions on directors of the companies.

Financial Vanguard investigations revealed that the number of companies that failed to disclose their interim and audited financial performance under the minimum listing requirement of the NSE rose to 22 in 2017 (17) from 16 in 2016.(16). However, the penalties paid by the defaulting companies fell by 5.5 percent to N132 million in 2017 as against N140 million in 2016.

Sanction for Default

NSE listing requirement mandates listed companies to submit their quarterly financial statement, not later than one month after the last day of the quarter. It also mandates companies to submit their audited annual financial statements not later than three months after the last working day of the financial year. .

According to NSE rules, Any late submission of accounts shall attract a fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100, 000) per week from the due date until the date of submission. A listed company which contravenes any of the provisions of the Listing Rules and General Undertaking and fails to pay the penalty imposed on it for such contravention on or before the due date shall be liable to a further fine of Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N300,000) in addition to Twenty Five Thousand Naira (N25,000) per day for the period the violation continues.

Nigerian Stock Exchange

Defaulting Companies

The companies that defaulted and penalty fees in 2017 are as follows: Vitafoam Nigeria Plc (Audited Account 2017, N800,000), Academy Press Plc (Audited Account 2017,N35 million) Niger Insurance Plc, (Audited Account 2016 and First Quarter 2017, N16.1 million), Union Diagnostic & Clinic Services Plc (Audited 2016 and First Quarter 2017, N3.9 million) Afromedia Plc (Third Quarter Account 2017, N200,000) John Holt Plc, Skye Bank Plc.

Others are Golden Guinea Breweries Plc (Audited Account 2017), Nigerian German Chemical Plc (Audited Account 2017), Roads Nigeria Plc (Audited Account 2017), Austin Laz & Company Plc (First Quarter Account 2016), Smart Product Nigeria Plc (Second Quarter 2017 Account), Conoil Plc (Audited 2016 and First Quarter, 2017 Account, N13.5 million), Daar Communications Plc (Audited 2016 and First Quarter 2017 N14.1 million), Fortis Microfinance Bank Plc (Third Quarter Account 2017, N1 million), Newrest ASL Plc (First Quarter 2017, N2.5 million), Nigerian Enamelware Plc (Audited Account 2017, N900,000), Pharmadeko Plc (First Quarter Account 2017, N1.6million), Presco Plc (Second Quarter Account 2017 N200, 000), Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc (Audited Account 2016 and First Quarter 2017, N10.2 million) and Staco Plc (Audited Account 2016 and First Quarter 2017, N7.5million).

The companies that defaulted in 2016 and the fines paid include: AG Leventis Plc (Audited Account 2016, N2.9milion), African Alliance (Audited Account 2015, 2016 Account, N46.1million), Austin Laz (Audited Account 2016, N5.4 million), Capital Oil Plc (Audited Account 2016, N1.1 million), CWG Plc (Audited 2016, N2.1 million), Dangote Flour Mills Plc (Audited Account 2016, N500,000), Diamond Bank Plc (Audited Account 2016, N2.4 million), Equity Assurance Plc (Audited Account 2016 N11.2 million), Fidelity Bank Plc (Audited Account 2016 N700,000), Fortis Microfinance Bank Plc (Third Quarter Account 2016, N19.8 million), Guinea Insurance Plc (Audited Account First, Second and Third Quarter 2016, N18.5 million).

Others are Premier Paints Plc (Audited Account 2016, N11.2 million), Presco Plc (Audited Account 2016, N1.3million), Royal Exchange Plc (Audited Account 2016, N7.3 million), Standard Alliance Insurance Plc (Audited Account 2016, N8.2 million) and Unity Bank Plc (Audited Account 2016, N500,000).

Further analysis by Financial Vanguard showed that four companies did not file their financial performance for first quarter of 2017 (Q1 17), nine months after the April 30 deadline. These are Austin Laz & Company Plc, Resort Savings & Loans Plc, Skye Bank Plc, and Smart Product Nigeria Plc.

Also, Skye Bank Plc and Smart Products Nigeria Plc did not submit the financial statement for second quarter of 2017 (Q22017), six months after the July 31 deadline for submission. Furthermore, seven companies did not submit their audited annual accounts. These are Vitafoam Nigeria Plc, Academy Press Plc, John Holt Plc, Afromedia Plc, Golden Guinea Breweries Plc, Nigerian German Chemical Plc and Roads Nigeria Plc.

Early Filers

Financial Vanguard investigations also revealed that six companies filed the financial statements ahead of required time. These earlier filers are Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank Plc, United Capital Plc, Omoluabi Mortgage Bank Plc, Unilever Nigeria Plc, PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc and Forte Oil Plc.

The early filers are companies that file their interim financial statements at least two weeks before the due date and audited financial statement at least four weeks before due date. In a statement commending the early filers, the NSE said: Quoted companies on the Exchange are required to file their financial statements on timely basis in accordance with Appendix iii of the listing rules.

The Exchange has identified these companies that have exceeded the minimum listing rules standards in terms of timely disclosure of their annual audited and quarterly financial performance as early filers. We are extremely proud of these companies and will continue to showcase quoted companies that imbibe high corporate practices.

Reaction from defaulting companies: All the defaulting companies failed to respond to Financial Vanguard enquiries except Skye Bank. Speaking on condition of anonymity, a top official of the bank attributed its default to regulatory delay.

Shareholders react: Irked by the upsurge in number of companies flouting a very basic listing requirement of the NSE, shareholders said it is time for the management of the Exchange to review the sanction approach to forestall the rising trend.

In separate interviews with Financial Vanguard, they unanimously advocated that the NSE should sanction the directors or company officials responsible for the default instead of sanctioning the company and hence indirectly sanctioning the shareholders. They also suggested that default occasioned by regulatory delays should not be penalised, adding that the Exchange should also introduce an incentive framework to encourage early submission.

Mrs. Bisi Bakare, Chairman, Pragmatic Shareholders Association of Nigeria, said my advice is that those officers of the companies assigned to process returns should do so as at when due to avoid unnecessary penalties. Also, our regulatory authorities should know that the burden or consequences of penalty is borne by shareholders. This is because the aftermath effect is that topline and bottomline will definitely be affected and dividend proposed will decline and the working capital of these companies will also affected.

On this note, I want our regulators to temper justice with mercy, by looking at other ways to punish these companies that flout listing rules than monetary fine so that our investment will not be affected. The regulators in the banking, capital market and insurance sectors (CBN, SEC, NAICOM) should be up and doing in their responsibilities because most times it is when one regulator or the other does not complete their work on time that it affect prompt filling of results by companies to the NSE.

Mr. Boniface Okezie, Chairman, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, PSAN, said The NSE need to further carry out investigation why these companies have failed to meet regulatory requirement. Imposing of fine is not the best, as this action affects the owners of the companies (shareholders) and not the management. It is only when such action is taken and the company fails to provide reasonable reason that a fine could be imposed; and the fine should be imposed on all the officers responsible to turn in the results and not to the firm itself. Also, the Exchange and other regulators should compel companies to state reason for late fillings of results in their annual reports. This will enable shareholders to tackle and hold the management responsible during Annual General Meetings, AGMs .

Commenting as well, Mr. Moses Igbrude, Public Relations Officer, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, ISAN, said There are rules and regulation in our market and operators must abide by them. So, management of companies should be aware of the rules and penalties involved. The management, as our Association always tells them, is to guide against being penalised. Another issue why some companies do not meet regulatory requirement, is because of the numerous regulators in our system. If one regulator delays a company from meeting the requirement of other regulators; should they be held responsible? No, I dont think it is proper. So, the NSE should look at this issue critically before imposing fine to defaulting companies. Sanctions is not always the best as we normally advise. We think regulators should find a way of rewarding those that meet regulatory requirements; in that case others will learn and be attracted to get such reward subsequently.

Again even when penalties are to be imposed, the officers or directors responsible to turn in results should be punished. We frown at a situation where the entire company or shareholders bear the brunt of the negligence of some few officers. If that is done, you will see that the directors will sit up and do things that will not attract penalty to the company.

Mr. Owolabi Peter, Chairman, Integrated Supreme Shareholders Association of Nigeria, said In as much that sanction is necessary to make the companies sit up, it is still not the best form of punishment. It is the shareholders investment that suffers most. Whether there is fine or not directors are paid their money. The money used in paying these fines is shareholders fund. I think regulators should rather sanction officers directly involved for failing in his or her responsibility. In that way they will sit up to avoid unnecessary penalty.

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Loading...Home | News | General | Reps probe $5bn under remittance by CBN

By Emman Ovuakporie

ABUJATHE House of Representatives ad-hoc committee constituted to probe the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, for alleged under remittance of over $5 billion into the federation account began work,weekend.

The committee, chaired by Chairman, House Committee on Customs, James Faleke, has fashioned out a work plan and other necessary modalities necessary for the investigative hearing.

House of Representatives

The committee was constituted following the adoption of a motion promoted by Ayo Omidiran (APC, Osun ), alleging that the CBN was guilty of not disclosing the true state of the financial inflows into the federation account on a monthly basis.

She also indicted the office of the Accountant-General of the Federation for not reporting the alleged infractions by the CBN.

She said: The CBN takes advantage of this all important function of warehousing funds for the three tiers of government and preparation of the federation account statement to manipulate the system by opening various accounts not known to the three tiers of government where funds are remitted, hidden, diverted and spent without authorisation.

Cttee probes sugar import waiver abuse

In a related development, the House of Representatives adhoc committee investigating the alleged abuse of import duty waivers granted sugar companies has resolved to summon the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah, and other stakeholders to shed light on how firms granted waivers by the Federal Government shortchanged the government of billions of Naira in revenue.

Chairman of the adhoc committee, Olasupo Abiodun Adeola, disclosed this to journalists, weekend, in Abuja.

Olasupo said the committees assignment was to determine the compliance by local sugar companies with the waiver granted them to import raw sugar into the country under a scheme to promote backward integration and ensure local sugar production meets demand to reducing Nigerias dependence on imported sugar.

Sadly, he declared that companies granted the waiver abused the privilege and turned around to fleece the nation of billions of Naira.

He assured that the committee wuld do a thorough job, adding that well hit the ground running and the committee will invite all stakeholders, including the minister and everybody involved with the waiver one way or the other.

Nigeria produces less than four percent of its sugar requirements locally. The backwards integration scheme that necessitated the granting of waiver was to encourage local production, reduce imports, create employment and reduce foreign exchange expenditure.

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Loading...Home | News | General | Nigerian UK property owners crash VAIDS phone lines

Request tax amnesty deadline extension

By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief

ABUJA Nigerians, who own property in the United Kingdom, Friday, crashed Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme, VAIDS, hotlines of the Federal Ministry of Finance with their incessant calls.

Highly placed source confirmed the development, yesterday.

The level of calls, he said, might be in connection with the new UK regulation with regard to Unexplained Wealth Orders, UWOs.

VAIDS

The confidential hotlines that were provided to enable the booking of appointments had received massive calls and frantic requests from tax payers in the last 72 hours, asking for extension of time to complete their VAIDS declaration forms, the source said.

The UK Government had, last week, introduced a new law that requires foreign owners of property in the country to explain the source of their funds or risk forfeiting them to the government.

The source said the UK government orders have created anxiety among Nigerians at home and abroad who own property in that country.

According to the new law, the UWOs can be obtained for any property or combination of property valued at just 50,000 (about N25 million) or more, for which the owner is unable to explain legal source of funds.

The source disclosed that data already in the possession of the VAIDS Office in the Federal Ministry of Finance revealed that many Nigerians who own property in the UK have under-paid their taxes before transferring funds overseas to buy them.

Most of the calls received are from high net worth individuals, including company executives, bankers and even a governor. All seem to be in panic over the prospect of losing their property, he said.

It was learned that some of the affected Nigerian investors in UK stormed the ministry last Friday without appointments, requesting to see the Minister or the Head of the VAIDS Office.

The source explained: Most of the enquiries are about seeking assurance from the Federal Government that the VAIDs programme can protect them from potential asset forfeiture to the UK government. Others requested to know if their names had appeared on the lists from overseas.

Vanguard gathered that the data sharing agreements between Nigeria and many countries where Nigerians are suspected to have invested stolen public funds, have unsettled corrupt politicians and even private sector operators.

Consequent upon the agreement, sources said those who fail to key into the VAIDS, thinking that their investments were hidden, would be shocked at the revelations to be made by the Federal Government at the end of next month when the amnesty will end.

Under the VAIDS, Nigerian tax payers who defaulted in tax obligations in the past are allowed to clear them.

Those who refuse would face criminal prosecution, as from April.

It was learned that engineers in the ministry and service provider have commenced works in order to restore the hotlines.

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Loading...Home | News | General | Innocent Chukwuma appeals bench warrant for his arrest

- Innocent Chukwuma, chairman of Innoson Group, has appealed the decision of a Lagos state high court

- EFCC had preferred charges against him and his company over allegations of fraud and forgery

- The judge had issued the bench warrant following the failure of the Chukwuma to appear in court for the second time for arraignment

Following a charge filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Innocent Chukwuma, chairman of Innoson Group, has appealed the decision of a Lagos state high court sitting in Ikeja.

Justice Mojisola Dada had on Friday, February 9, issued the bench warrant following the failure of the defendant to appear in court for the second time for arraignment on criminal charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

READ ALSO: Nigerians who own property in UK panic over new law

The EFCC had preferred charges against Chukwuma and his company over allegations of fraud and forgery.

A bench warrant is hereby served on Innocent Chukwuma, he will remain in custody till the next adjourned date.

The case is adjourned till March 14 for possible arraignment, Justice Dada said.

Earlier during proceedings, a mild drama ensued in the courtroom, with Justice Dada threatening to charge Prof. J. N Mbadugha, the defence counsel for Innoson and Innoson Motors Ltd, for contempt of court.

Charles Chukwuma, a third defendant who was not present in court, had no legal representation.

Justice Dada issued the threat against Mbadugha following his alleged disrespectful conduct and outburst against the court in his opening address.

Mbadugha in his address had shouted: This proceeding is a clear abuse of court processes, the EFCC is a reckless arbiter.

My Lord has refused to be bound by the rule of law and doesnt want to be bound by the doctrine of Stare Decisis; my Lord wants to override the decision of the Supreme Court.

Justice Dada, in response, said: Your whole comportment, conduct, countenance smacks of disrespect to the court and rule of law, I will report you to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

You are insulting the court, this is clear contempt in the face of the court; you will go to prison from here, if you think the court is defenceless and powerless, youd be surprised.

Mbadugha, who initially said he was ready to be charged for contempt, later tendered an apology to the court, saying: I am sorry My Lord, I hope the court gives me a second opportunity.

I want to urge the court to temper justice with mercy; to err is human, but to forgive is divine.

The defence counsel profusely apologised to the court saying he withdrawn his earlier statements.

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Addressing the court before the bench warrant was issued, Mr A. B. C Ozioko, the lead prosecuting counsel for the EFCC, claimed that the automobile boss had been evading justice.

He said: The first and second defendants (Innoson and his company) took the EFCC before the Senate for public hearing and the first defendant who represented his company was physically there.

The defendants have respect for the National Assembly and no respect for this court.

My learned friend (Mbadugha) is a lawyer and he wants to demean the integrity of this court.

Mr Onwukwe, a defence counsel for the first defendant, was here in court on Jan. 17; this is a criminal charge and proceedings cannot hold until the defendant is present.

The first and second defendant are not here because my learned friend advised them not to come to court.

I want Your Lordship to compel the first and second defendants to come to court, which is germaine for a criminal charge.

We have gotten across to the third defendant (Charles Chukwuma) and we are ready to change the charge to reflect only the first and second defendant.

We shall be applying for a bench warrant for the first and second defendant.

NAN reported that defendants are to be arraigned on a four-count charge of conspiracy to obtain property by false pretenses, obtaining property by false pretenses, stealing and forgery.

According to the charge sheet, the defendants committed the offences between 2009 and July 2011 in Lagos.

The EFCC alleges that defendants with intent to defraud, conspired to obtain by false pretenses containers of motorcycle, spare parts and raw materials property of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) from Mitsui OSK Lines Limited, Apapa, Lagos.

The defendants are alleged to have fraudulently induced staff of Mitsui OSK and Maersk Line to deliver to them via their clearing agents the goods which were imported from China in the name of GTB by falsely pretending that they were authorised by the bank to clear the goods.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had reported that the prosecution claimed that the defendants, in order to facilitate the fraud, forged a bill of lading numbered 598286020 of Maersk Line Limited and 11007950841 of Mutsui O.S.K Lines by knowingly putting a false GTB stamp and signature of the bank staff.

The alleged forgery was in order that the forged documents be used or acted upon as genuine to the prejudice of any person within Lagos or elsewhere.

The offences, according to the EFCC, are in contravention of Sections 1(1)(b), 1(3), and 8(a) of the Advanced Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act 2016 and Sections 309(9), 388, 465 and 467(1)(j) of the Criminal Code of Lagos state 2003.

Okorocha erects gigantic statue to honour Ekwueme - on NAIJ.com TV:

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Loading...Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose has written to remind President Muhammadu Buhari on the renaming of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti as Adeyinka Adebayo University (FUOYE) after Military Governor of defunct Western State, late General Robert Adeyinka Adebayo.

General Adebayo died last year and was buried on May 20, 2017 at Iyin-Ekiti, his home town.

Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, who the the Acting President then represented President Buhari at the burial where he announced the decision of the Federal Government to rename the Federal University, Oye Ekiti as Adeyinka Adebayo University in recognition of the exemplary leadership of the late hero and frontline Statesman.

Close to nine months after this announcement was made, the change was yet to be effected by the Federal Government.

According to his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Idowu Adelusi, Governor Fayose, in a letter dated January 29, 2018, with reference number EK/GOV/28/93, urged the President to effect the change without further delay.

The letter read; As Your Excellency is aware, the Late General Robert Adeyinka Adebayo (Military Governor of defunct Western State and one time Head of the Nigerian Army died last year).

Your Excellency was represented at his burial on May 20, 2017 by the then Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo (GCON) at Iyin-Ekiti, his home town.

The Acting President at the occasion announced the decision of the Federal Government to rename the Federal University, Oye Ekiti as Adeyinka Adebayo University in recognition of the exemplary leadership of the late hero and frontline Statesman.

However, more than seven months after this pronouncement, nothing has been done.

Your Excellency, this letter therefore is to serve as reminder of this significant decision of the your Government so as to enable appropriate directive(s) and implementation.

On behalf of the People and Government of Ekiti State, I thank Your Excellency for the thoughtfulness, please.Home | News | General | Breaking: 2 Civil Defence officers found dead in Benue

Two officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have been found dead in Benue state following a gun battle with armed attackers suspected to be herdsmen.

NSCDC spokesperson, Emmanuel Okeh, told Premium Times on Monday evening, February 12, that, They were in a gun duel with the herders and, unfortunately, we lost two."

READ ALSO: God will direct His anger on looters if they refuse to repent - Bishop Kukah

NAIJ.com gathered that the attack occurred in Guma Local Government Area of the state.

It was learnt that some residents of the area said that four NSCDC officers were killed in the attack, but Okeh said he could only confirm two.

The remains of the officers have been taken to the Benue state Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, the state capital, he said.

The news came hours after the police confirmed the killing of one of their officers in the neighbouring Logo Local Government Area on Monday morning.

The officer was amongst the four mobile policemen that went missing in an ambush by suspected herdsmen on Saturday afternoon.

Both Logo and Guma LGAs were attacked on January 1 during which more than a hundred villagers were killed.

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Seventy-two bodies were buried in a mass grave near Makurdi by the state government on January 12.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had earlier reported that one of the police officers who went missing in Benue state on Saturday, February 11, has been found dead. The officer was one of the four mobile police officers that went missing following an ambush on their patrol vehicle in Logo local government area of the state.

Nigerian herdsmen vs Nigerian farmers - on NAIJ.com TV

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Loading...Home | News | General | Governor Okorocha reportedly reveals identity of the person to succeed as Imo governor

- Governor Rochas Okorocha said he would support Uche Nwosu for Io governorship

- He however noted that his chief of staff has not made his ambition known

- He described him as an ideal leader

Governor Rochas Okorocha has reportedly identified his son-in-law and chief of staff, Uche Nwosu, as the person to succeed him as governor of the state if he makes his ambition known.

The Nation reports that the Io governor gave this position when members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Owerri Municipal Council Area visited him in the Government House in Owerri.

Okorocha said Nwosu has the qualities of ideal leader and that although he has not told him yet that he intends to run for governor but promised to support him if he does.

READ ALSO: Ex-CBN deputy governor Moghalu to run for president in 2019

He said: The monumental achievements of his administration will not be left in the hand of any how person.

The Chief of Staff has not told me that he wants to run for the governorship of the state. But if he comes out I will support him.

I have known him (Nwosu) over the years but does not know his parents and described him as an honest man who, whatever he tells you in the morning is what he will tell you in the evening.

Uche Nwosu is hardworking and never gets tired. He is a very humble young man. Not proud or arrogant. So, power wont enter his head. Despite the position he occupies you cant see him quarreling with anybody or maltreating anybody. He does not segregate against anybody whether from Orlu or Owerri or Okigwe zone. He relates with people enviously. I have checked him in and out, I have not found him wanting.

What the state wants is Imo governor and not Owerri Zone or Orlu Zone or Okigwe Zone governor. Zoning does not put food on the table of anybody. The young man is a team player, who does not use his office to molest anybody. He has the qualities of a good leader. If he says he will run for governor, I will support him.

Obviously it might be as a result of these qualities that most people are talking about Uche Nwosu for governor everywhere even when he has not declared for the governorship. It might also be the reason for the endorsements he is getting from all quarters. You see, you dont hide a good product. And the joy of every leader is to have a worthy successor. You dont mind political opportunists. We have done very well as a government and we should be concerned about what happens to the achievements after.

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I am not from Owerri zone, but my administration has done more projects in Owerri zone and Owerri Municipal in particular more that the administrations before me had done put together. We need Imo governor and not a zonal governor. I have done in Okigwe zone what the man from the zone could not do for them. The records are there.

NAIJ.com had reported that Nwosu was endorsed as the next governor of Imo state by the state assembly for 2019.

The Punch reports that this development has deepened crisis in the state assembly.

The House committee chairman on petroleum, Imo state oil producing areas development commission and Niger delta development commission, Henry Ezediaro said Nwosu who is the chief of staff in the government house said he was the best person to take over from his father-in-law.

Ezediaro spoke at a press conference in Owerri, the state capital, on Saturday, December 9 where he said majority of the lawmakers have endorsed Nwosu as the best man for the job.

Who is Nigeria's greatest president ever? - on NAIJ.com TV.

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Loading...Home | News | General | God will direct His anger on looters if they refuse to repent - Bishop Kukah

- Bishop Hassan Kukah has blasted looters for Nigeria's hardship

- He prayed God to direct His anger on them if they were not willing to repent

- Kukah spoke while receiving campaigners against human trafficking in Sokoto

The Bishop of Sokoto dioceses, Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah has blamed the hardship plaguing Nigeria on the those who looted the country's resources.

Daily Trust reports that he prayed God to direct his anger on them if they were not willing to repent.

READ ALSO: Mind your own business and stop interfering in Benue affairs - Ortom tells Lalong

NAIJ.com gathered that Kukah also prayed God to make the nation's leaders wiser to be able to address the economic and security challenges .

He said: "We condemn in a very strong term and we ask for the visitation if they don't repent, we ask God direct punishment on them , all those who had misappropriated the resources of this country and who are the cause of where we are today because a country like Nigeria should have ordinarily no business with poverty because of its enormous resources.

"We also pray that God should make those who are currently responsible for managing our massive resources and those whose hands he placed our security, wiser, so that they can address our security and economic challenges."

Kukah spoke while receiving campaigners against human trafficking at the Saint Bakhita Secretariat, Sokoto.

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Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had previously reported that the Catholic bishop of Sokoto Diocese in Nigeria, Most Rev Matthew Kukah, on Tuesday, January 30, declared that fighting corruption in the country and fixing it requires more than having a God-fearing leader.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Kukah said this at the launch of a book titled: The Shadow List, written by Dr Todd Moss and organised by the African Centre for Media and Information Literacy in Abuja.

The EFCC stage a walk against corruption - on NAIJ.com TV

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Loading...Home | News | General | Kaduna central indigenes vow to recall Senator Shehu Sani, accuse him of working for opposition

- A group in Kaduna accused Senator Shehu Sani of anti-party activities

- The group said the senator has joined President Buhari's enemies

- It vowed to work to recall him

A group, Concerned Indigenes of Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone, has vowed to work towards recalling Senator Shehu Sani accusing him of working for the opposition party.

Leadership reports that the group made this known on Monday, February 12 saying the senator has not done anything for the people he represent in three years that he has been at the national assembly.

READ ALSO: Ex-CBN deputy governor Moghalu to run for president in 2019

Aliyu Saidu who is the leader of the group claimed he work towards the election of Sani in 2015 but said he deserves to be recalled for his alleged anti-party activities.

He claimed the senator has joined forces with enemies of the All Progressives Congress and President Muhammadu Buhari.

He said they would spearhead Sanis recall since the party has failed to take appropriate action.

He said: "I will like to begin this address by drawing your attention to the fact that I was at the heart of Senator Shehu Sanis campaign machinery in the capacity as Deputy Director General of his campaign team.

Instead of investing his legislative resources and privileges towards deepening our legislative culture and uplifting the conditions of his constituents, he becomes the foster boy of President Buharis enemies, always amplifying the challenges we are facing while ignoring the many progress the Buhari-led administration is making in order to portray the government as incompetent and clueless.

No individual, no matter how highly positioned is above the party. We therefore call on the party to initiate disciplinary action against the senator because allowing thus madness to go unpunished will only embolden other rebels.

We the people of Kaduna Central are saying enough is enough. Senator Shehu Sanis three years in the Senate have been nothing but betrayal and a crime against our people.

This recall process will proceed apace. There is no quitting, no giving up and surrendering until we restore our Kaduna Central, the kind of representation it deserves.

Asked if their move would not jeopardise the peace move of President Buhari, the group leader said, We cannot wait for any committee of reconciliation because time is moving and by the time the report is ready, election would have been around the corner.

Senator Sani in his reaction through his senior special adviser on politics and ideology, Alhaji Suleiman Ahmed, said he would not stop speaking against policies that were anti-people.

He said: It is regrettable that the government feel they should be using jobless youths, (that we are fighting for to make their lives better), in attacking the senator.

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The issue of recall is nothing new. We are not deterred by the threat at all because its being the usual trend. We will continue to challenge any anti-people policy both in the state and the country. The senator would not dance to the tune of the party simply because he is from the same party with the governor or the president.

Meanwhile, Sani reacted to the fresh attack that left four people dead at Bakin Kogi village in Jemaa local government area of the state.

It was learnt that four people were killed and one wounded in an ambush by herdsmen in Bakin Kogi village of Jemaa local government of Kaduna state.

Sani, in a series of tweets sympathised with the victims and people of Bakin Kogi over the attack and assured that the government will not give up on what he described as," cowardly act of criminality".

Nigerian herdsmen vs Nigerian farmers - on NAIJ.com TV:

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Loading...Home | News | General | Nigeria ll not be used to destabilise Cameroon  Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has reassured Cameroonian Authority that Nigeria territory would not be used as a staging area to destabilise Cameroon.

Buhari was quoted as making the pledge in a communique issued at the end of 6th session of the Cameroon-Nigeria Trans-Border Security Committee held in Abuja.

The communique was signed by the Nigerian Head of Delegation, Brig.-Gen Emmanuel Ndagi, Director Defence Affairs, Office of the NSA and Cameroonian Head of Delegation, Mr Rene Sadi, Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralisation.

The communique explained that the president gave the assurance in a message sent to the Cameroonian delegation at the session, through the National Security Adviser (NSA), Maj.-Gen. Babagana Monguno (Rtd).

Buhari

Series of political events in the two countries have led to new security challenges threatening the peaceful co-existence along the common borders.

Nigeria will take necessary measures within the ambit of the law to ensure that her territory is not used as a staging area to destabilise another friendly sovereign country, it quoted President Buhari as saying.

The communique stated that both countries agreed to collaborate through their respective agencies for combating money laundering and financing of terrorism.

It stated that the two countries should continue to explore other sources of funding for the Multinational Joint Task Force.

The two countries signed an agreement on Non-proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons.

The two countries agreed to collaborate in sensitising Nigerians living in Bakassi area to live in peace and to abide by the laws and regulations of their host country.

On Border Control Operations, the committee recommended that the security agencies of the two countries should strengthen the fight against crimes along the land and maritime borders.

That Nigeria and Cameroon should ensure the provision of infrastructure such as roads, schools, hospitals, boreholes among others to bring a sense of belonging to the border Communities.

That the Immigration and other security services of the two countries should meet regularly in order to exchange information and create security awareness, it stated.

The communique directed that a Joint Committee be established to harmonise regulations on illegal fishing and poaching activities on the existing dams between the two countries.

It stated that on Lagdo dam in Cameroon, the two governments should work on the implementation of the agreement on water management on the Benue River Basin signed in Abuja on the May 3, 2016.

It stated that a Joint assessment committee be set-up by the two governments to assess the environmental impact and propose solutions on the Kachimbula Dam.

According to the communique, an alert system should be put in place to fore-warn the population of any impending danger on the two dams.

NAN

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Loading...Home | News | General | Charlyboys group storms INEC headquarters over PVC

By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA- A group of good governance advocates, under the aegis of Our Mumu Don Do on Monday, staged a peaceful protest at the National Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the perceived lapses in the on-going Continuous Voters Registration, CVR, exercise nationwide.

Charlyboy at INEC Headquarters, Maitama, Abuja

The group led by maverick entertainer, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, also condemned the active participation by underage voters in last Saturday Local Government elections in Kano and Katsina states.

Speaking during the protest, Oputa said that after series of meticulous observations of the CVR exercise and interface with voters nationwide, the group felt the necessity for critical stakeholders to engage INEC on ways to remedy the deficiencies in the voters registration process.

He expressed the readiness of the group to partner with INEC in addressing the lapses in the on-going Continuous Voters Registration Exercise but warned that if the commission failed to address the issues raised in the groups protest letter and reply within two weeks, the movement would begin its daily-sit-out at the front of INEC office in order to avert the unpleasant consequences of disenfranchising millions of Nigerians as a result of the current lapses in the registration process.

He said: We commend INEC on some giant stride it has recorded since its formation, and space it is giving to dialogue this period on how to improve our electoral process, however, the movement wishes to engage the commission on the following challenges encumbering mass participation of the Nigerian people in the electoral process.

The challenge of voters registration in different parts of the country, especially with regards to the unavailability of required registration centres in most of the states in Nigeria.

The challenge of voters apathy and disenfranchisement as a result of the longtime practice of rigidity in the electoral process.

The challenge of conspicuous deficiencies with regards to electronic voting, the compilation of results, and accurate documentation and reportage of the number of voters nationwide.

Other speakers were Conveners of Concerned Nigerians, Deji Adeyanju; OurMumuDonDo, Raphael Adebayo; Coalition in Defence of Nigerian Democracy, Ariyo Dare Atoye; as well as Campaign for Democracy; Bako Abdul Usman and MAD Connect, Moses Paul.

Adeyanju, while speaking, lampooned INEC for allowing, supervising, and accepting votes by those citizens who are yet to reach the legal age of 18 at the just concluded Local Government election in Kano State.

They were received by a senior police officer, Paul Odama and Acting-Director, Security Directorate of INEC, Muse Sekpe, both of who led their representatives into the premises to personally submit the protest letter.

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Loading...Home | News | General | CAN demands compensation for victims of Benue killings

BY PETER DURU

MAKURDI  The Christian Association of Nigerian, CAN, has appealed to the Federal Government to avail compensation to the victims of the new year days killings in Benue state where over 73 lives were lost.

Speaking yesterday at the stakeholders meeting organized for members of the National Economic Council Committee on the herdsmen/ Farmers crisis in Makurdi, the Benue state chairmen of CAN, Rev. Akpen Leva lamented that the people had been abandoned by the Federal government despite the huge losses suffered directly and indirectly by the victims.

Rev. Leva said, considering the losses suffered by the people of Benue state, the federal government has not found it expedient to avail the victims any form of compensation, it is indeed saddening.

What we demand for is adequate compensation for those killed, we need compensation for those in the Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, camp where over 100,000 persons are currently taking refuge.

We also demand the arrest and prosecution of the leadership of Maiyetti Allah kautal Hore because they had issued threats before the killings, that is the more reason why they should be made to answer to the law because nobody should be seen to be above the law.

Our fear is that the incursion in our communities is another grand plan to Islamize the country because the sequence of the attacks clearly shows that they are carried out in Christian communities.

On his part, former military Governor of Benue state, General Atom Kpera (Retired) cautioned that the herdsmen menace if not checked could lead to anarchy in the country.

We are gradually walking into anarchy in this country. People may be forced to take up arms to defend themselves if something urgent is not done to stop the killings.

The federal government must know that we all belong to this country and we must all be protected from the menace of herdsmen and those perpetrating the killings arrested and made to face the law..

On his part, the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse faulted the timing of the deployment of military personnel in the state.

According to royal father, why did government announce the deployment of the force way ahead of time allowing grace period to allow the killers of our people to run away. I have a concern over the entire arrangement. He lamented.

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Loading...Home | News | General | Well implement security solutions that ll stand test of time  Buhari

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA- PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari on Monday said that his government has the grasp of the security challenges in the country and was determined to implement solutions that would stand the test of time.

President Muhammadu Buhari

President Buhari and heads of security agencies held the routine weekly security meeting where heads of the security agencies brief him on the security situation in the country.

As usual there was no briefing of State House correspondents as it was purely security matters, but President Buhari in his twitter handle said that the government would implement solutions that would be acceptable anywhere.

The Presidents post on his twitter handle read thus, Today I presided over a Meeting of the Security Council. We fully understand the seriousness & urgency of Nigerias security issues, and are determined to implement carefully considered solutions that will not only earn the confidence of Nigerians, but also stand the test of time.

The meeting which was an enlarged one with heads of Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Prisons Service, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps lasted about three hours at the State House, Abuja.

At the meeting was the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Secretary to the government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan-Ali, Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Danbazzau, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, and National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd)

Also in attendance were Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS); Lawal Daura, Director of the Nigeria Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Abubakar, and Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris.

The service chiefs at the meeting included Chief of Defence Staff; Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin, Chief of Army Staff; Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, Chief of Naval Staff, Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, and Chief of Air Staff, Sadique Abubakar.

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Loading...Home | News | General | APC, Interior minister Mourn Shagaya

By Omeiza Ajayi

ABUJA- The All Progressives Congress APC has mourned the death of Gen. John Shagaya, a staunch party man and former Minister of Internal Affairs between 1985 and 1990.

Late General John Nanzip Shagaya,

The party in a statement by its spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, recalled Gen. Shagayas excellent service during his sub-regional assignment as Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group ECOMOG Commander. The late Shagaya also had distinguished tenures as Minister during the Gen. Ibrahim Babangida military regime and Senator between 2007 and 2011, when he moved several motions and initiated bills for the good of the country.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Interior, Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retd), has expressed shock and sadness at the death Gen. Shagaya, who died in a ghastly motor accident in Plateau State on Sunday, 11th February, 2018.

Gen. Dambazau described the late Gen. Shagaya as a statesman and a national icon, who contributed immensely to nation-building both as a military professional and a politician.

The Minister recalls with nostalgia the achievements of Gen. Shagaya in the then Ministry of Internal Affairs (now Interior) during his time as the Minister from 1985 to 1989.

According to the minister, Gen. Shagaya, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress APC, a former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a retired gentleman officer of the Nigeria Army, would be greatly and sorely missed for his immeasurable contributions to the growth and development of the country.

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Loading...Home | News | General | FG, Switzerland to deepen bilateral relations, tackle human trafficking

By Victoria Ojeme

ABUJA- Federal Government and Switzerland on Monday held a political consultation to deepen the existing diplomatic engagement in economic cooperation, migration issues and human trafficking, Foreign Affairs Ministry has said.

The Ministrys Permanent Secretary, Amb Olukunle Bamgbose, stated this at the opening ceremony of the high level dialogue between Nigeria and Switzerland.

Bamgbose led Nigerian delegation while Ambassador of Switzerland to Nigeria to Nigeria, Krystyna Marty-Lang led Swiss delegation at the meeting.

While reiterating Nigerias commitment in deepening both countries relations, Bamgbose assured Switzerland that the outcome of the deliberations would be acted upon to ensure optimum results.

We also hope for more collaborative efforts in addressing the human trafficking and re-facilitated re-integrated programs for migrants.

I am confident that this round of our deliberations will move the process closer towards the realisation of the set objectives.

The time and energy that we have all invested in this endeavor made this day possible, he said.

Bamgbose said the dialogue which started some years back reinforced the optimism of both counties that the important process would continue to endure the test of time.

The Permanent Secretary said that it also served yet as another platform for the strengthening and deepening of Nigeria-Swiss relations.

He commended the genuine commitment that has so far been demonstrated by both sides to the partnership, which he said, had become a model in Nigerias exertions with other countries.

It is heart-warming to know that our two countries have succeeded in streamlining the issues of mutual interest in a more organised and coherent manner under this platform.

It is against this backdrop that Nigeria welcomes the opportunity to participate in this discussion amongst friends, with a view to learning from each others experience and best practices, Bamgbose said.

He said Nigeria and Switzerland were traditional partners who had devised mechanisms to broaden and deepen the scope of engagements such that the outcome of both efforts is mutually-beneficial.

He said Nigeria truly appreciate the engagement and pledged the continued cooperation of Nigeria to the partnership.

The leader of Swiss delegation said Switzerland and Nigeria had a very longstanding and friendship relationship that dated back to the days of independence.

Marty-Lang said:This relationship has been very positive and productive. It reflects in the quality exchanges and joints successes.

We have a long list of high ranking visits and we are very much disposed for some upcoming visits this year.

Marty-Lang said that Switzerland was very proud of its partnership with Nigeria in the field of migration and human rights.

I strongly believe that this week of exchange, has laid the groundwork for future cooperation and for deepening our already good and very close relationship, Marty-Lang stated.

Marty-Lang further said the Swiss government looked forward to the exchange and expressed confidence that both countries would discover many more fields of intensified cooperation.

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Loading...Home | News | General | Ikorodu: Another 200 cultists renounce membership, surrender arms to police

- No fewer than two hundred suspected cultists have renounced their membership

- They also surrendered their weapons to the Lagos state Commissioner of Police, Imohimi Edgar

- Edgar urged Ikorodu residents to partner with security agencies in order to curtail crime and criminality in their community

About 200 suspected cultists in Ikorodu on Monday, February 12, renounced their membership and surrendered their weapons to the Lagos state Commissioner of Police, Imohimi Edgar.

NAIJ.com gathered that the repented cultists, mostly youths, converged at the palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, where they formally surrendered.

READ ALSO: Breaking: 2 Civil Defence officers found dead after Benue attack

The weapons surrendered were 15 locally made long guns, 11 cutlasses, four double barrel guns, four axes, five locally made short guns, one sword and 30 bullets.

Addressing the repented cultists, Edgar urged Ikorodu residents to partner with security agencies in order to curtail crime and criminality in their community.

The police chief also advised the residents to be vigilant and share information that could help the police and other security agencies to arrest suspected criminals.

In your midst, I heard that there are still few persons who might not have agreed to join this popular and generally accepted means to shun cultism.

You must be vigilant and must not allow those few people who have refused to join your group to continue to carry out cultism activities anywhere.

"I have told the Area Commanders and the DPOs that anytime you give them information that some cultists are operating anywhere, they must partner with you and make sure those cultists are arrested and brought to book, he said.

Edgar said that the command would obtain personal and biometric details of all the renounced members for continuous monitoring by the police.

The police chief said that all the complaints of the renounced members would be attended to by the Ikorodu monarch, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, the local government council chairman and other stakeholders.

The Kabiyesi will use the instrumentality and the majesty of his office to compel the local government chairman who has indicated interest to ensure that you are all giving a vocational training.

After the training they can be re-integrated positively to the society and also advance them with soft loans to have business doing that will earn you living, Edgar said.

The police chief noted that some prominent members of the community who were declared wanted were still going about soliciting support and conniving to organise illegal protest.

Edgar, therefore, advised them to quickly report themselves to the police and proceed to court to clear their names.

NAN reports that the event was witnessed by the Brigade Commander, 174 Battalion, Lt-Col. Benedict Ezeh.

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Ezeh, in a remark, said that the Nigerian Army is partnering with the Nigeria Police to ensure crime reduced to the bearest minimum in the community. (NAN)

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had previously reported that in a move to curb the rampant criminal activities in Ikorodu area of Lagos state, the police high command on Monday, January 22, inaugurated the Squadron 63 Mobile Police Base in Igbogbo Baiyeku area of the state.

NAIJ.com visits family attacked by Badoo cult group - on NAIJ.com TV

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Loading...Home | News | General | Security meeting: President Buhari speaks about fate of those arrested for illegal possession of arms

- President Buhari met with service chiefs in Abuja

- He encouraged security agencies to share intelligence to handle the insecurity issues

- He urged judicial workers to do their jobs well

President Muhammadu Buhari has revealed the outcome of his security meeting with service chiefs saying intelligence-gathering and sharing must now be taken more seriously.

NAIJ.com had reported that the president met with the security chiefs behind closed doors on Monday, February 12 and the president has urged for more action in handling the insecurity problem of insecurity.

President Muhammadu Buhari at the security meeting with service chiefs. Credit: Twitter, Lauretta Onochie

READ ALSO: Governor Al-Makura to reclaim lost grazing routes

In a series of tweets, President Buhari said those arrested for illegally possessing arms will be face justice.

He also urged judicial officers to make sure justice is served.

President Buhari is expressed his concern about the insecurity in the country. Credit: Twitter, Lauretta Onochie

He said: "One of the resolutions from our Security Meeting today is that all our law enforcement agencies must take intelligence-gathering and sharing much more seriously. The Police and DSS especially have been charged to step up their efforts and capacity in this regard.

President Buhari encouraged security agencies to share intelligence. Credit: Twitter, Lauretta Onochie

Our law enforcement agencies must at all times stay ahead of bandits and criminals, wherever they are across the country, by efficiently gathering, sharing and acting on credible Intelligence. I am assuring that we will give them all the support needed to succeed.

Let me also assure that all persons arrested so far, including those arrested for illegally possessing arms, will be duly prosecuted. I urge judicial officers to be alive to responsibilities in this regard, to enable the speedy dispensation of justice.

Meanwhile, Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha, said it is wrong to classify Fulani herders as killer herdsmen.

According to him, linking a particular tribe to a crime is wrong and a form of bigotry. He said herdsmen who killed should be labeled as criminals and not linked to the Fulani tribe.

Okorocha made this statement while receiving the national leaders of the Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim led by its Supreme Head, the Prelate His Eminence Solomon Alao, at the Government House Owerri at the weekend.

Nigerian herdsmen vs Nigerian farmers on NAIJ.com TV

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Loading...Home | News | General | Herdsmen allegedly go haywire, destroy Unilorins multi-million naira farm and poison dam with chemicals

- Prof Sulyman Abdulkareem, the vice-chancellor of the University of Ilorin, says enough is enough concerning the destruction by herdsmen

- Abdulkareem says earlier warnings to the herdsmen had proven abortive

- Usman Adamu, the chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, says those destroying the institutions farm are not part of the association

Prof Sulyman Abdulkareem, the vice-chancellor of the University of Ilorin, has decried the destruction of the institution's multi-million naira research and training farms by alleged herdsmen, who also reportedly poisoned the dam with chemicals.

The News Agency of Nigeria quotes the university's weekly bulletin issued on Monday, February 12, as saying the management of the institution recently held a security meeting with the leaders of the 11 Fulani settlements on the university land.

The report said the publication quoted the vice-chancellor as saying that economic trees were destroyed by cattle grazing on the vast land of the institution.

READ ALSO: Updated: Northern Nigeria mourns again as Senator Shagaya dies in ghastly accident

The meeting was reportedly attended by representatives of law enforcement agencies comprising of the Nigerian Police Force, the Department of State Security Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

NAIJ.com learnt that at the meeting held at the institutions auditorium basement, Prof Abdulkareem disclosed that the university management would no longer tolerate illegal grazing of cows on its land.

The vice chancellor told the illegal settlers, who have started building permanent structures to vacate the university land in the interest of peace adding that this was coming almost a year after the tertiary authorities first issued a quit notice to the illegal settlers.

According to Abdulkareem, the university management had on April 26, 2017 handed down a seven-day ultimatum to the herdsmen encroaching on the it to quit the campus, but the notice was never complied with.

He further noted that on May 11, 2017, about 28 persons, comprising Fulani herdsmen, Yoruba and Hausa farmers, were dragged to an Ilorin Chief Magistrates Court for allegedly trespassing into the university land, destroying the schools plantation and perpetrating other unauthorized activities on the University campus.

He explained that the accused persons were alleged to have resorted to poisoning the institutions dam with chemicals, while also engaging in illegal felling of economic trees from which they made charcoal.

The vice chancellor warned that the university could no longer condone the destructive activities of the grazing cattle on the institution's land, as this is becoming too costly for the institution to bear.

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According to the institutions publication, herdsmen from 11 communities took turns to speak at the meeting.

The report also said the chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Usman Adamu, told the university management that the herdsmen destroying the intitution's farm land were not living in the community.

NAIJ.com earlier reported how Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa state said his government had put machinery in place to reclaim all designated grazing reserves that have been encroached upon in the state.

Al-Makura disclosed this at an expanded state Security Council meeting on Monday in Lafia. He attributed the incessant clashes between farmers and herders to the encroachment on grazing reserves across the state.

Nigerian herdsmen vs Nigerian farmers - on NAIJ.com TV

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Loading...Home | News | General | Two APC stalwarts decide to defect to PDP, others show interest to follow

-Members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Kwara recently praised the decision of some of its stalwarts to defect from the party

- Sunday Fasanmi, spokesman of the stalwarts, Olabode Towoju and Tunji Olawuyi, said they resolved to leave the party because they were badly treated

- Some supporters of the party stated that they may join the defecting stalwarts to move to another party, especially the PDP

Members of All Progressive Congress (APC) in Kwara have commended the decision of some supporters of the to exit, adding that they may join them to move to another party.

Sunday Fasanmi, the spokesperson of the APC stalwarts, Olabode Towoju and Tunji Olawuyi, disclosed this in his conversation with newsmen on Monday, February 12, in Abuja, Nigerian Tribune reports.

READ ALSO: Senator Shehu Sani reacts to fresh killing in southern Kaduna

He said the decision of the two party stalwarts to move to another party, specifically to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was due to the alleged poor treatments they had experienced over time.

Fasanm, speaking on behalf of the supporters, said the ill-treatment of the principal officers of APC in Kwara was equal to a betrayal of trust..

It was reported that Towoju and Olawuyi contested for the House of Representatives in Irepodun, Isin, Oke-ero and Ekiti federal constituency of Kwara at different times.

Fasanm stated that Towoju worked hard for the party in the state and at the federal level but was not given the well-deserved recognition after the party got into power.

He remarked: "And in spite of the ill-treatment, Towoju was not perturbed." He said the supporters were ready to move to any party en mass if it would provide a viable platform for them to realise their dream to be of service to the people.

READ ALSO: Ex-CBN deputy governor Moghalu to run for president in 2019

He said Towoju had been very useful to the people of his constituency, particularly his community; hence the supporters would do all within their powers to make his dream become a reality..

Fasanmi said once the stalwarts give the supporters the approval to defect to PDP, they would not fail to do so. He stressed that the APC had been unfair to them and that there is inequality in the party.

He said supporters of Olawuyi shared similar views about the APC. According to Fasanmi, the supporters further said that they were also awaiting his directive to invite them to PDP.

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He said: We can no longer be onlookers while people who did little or nothing to help the APC keep running the affairs of the party."

He said soon a date would be given to the people when they would eventually quit the APC in the state, adding that this was necessary to save their political careers.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had previously reported that the Kwara state caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC), named Caucus for Progressive Change, had offered to provide a quick exit for Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed from the party.

The party came to this conclusion after the governor was quoted as saying he and his political family will dump the APC if their supporters ask them to do so.

How Kwara state governor is changing the face of the state - On NAIJ.com TV

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Loading...Home | News | General | Farmers-herdsmen clash: Governor Al-Makura to makes move to end crises

- Governor Al-Makura said his government is working to end the farmers-herdsmen clashes

- The Nasarawa governor noted that grazing routes have been taken over by farms, building

- He said the routes will be reclaimed to stop the clashes

Governor Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State says government has put machinery in place to reclaim all designated grazing reserves that have been encroached upon in the state.

Al-Makura disclosed this at an expanded state Security Council meeting on Monday in Lafia.

He attributed the incessant clashes between farmers and herders to the encroachment on grazing reserves across the state.

READ ALSO: Governor Okorocha names successor to replace him as Imo governor

He said there were seven grazing reserves in the state with two of them in Awe and Keana being gazetted which had helped to ease the pressure between farmers and herdsmen over the years.

These are expanse of land covering tens of kilometres, that if left for activities of herders, all the pressure will not have overwhelmed the available land for farming.

So, I have directed the ministry of Agriculture to give me the detail maps and planned area for grazing reserves.

We will work towards recovering the grazing reserves as first step towards finding a lasting solution to the lingering crisis.

I have been told that substantial part of the two gazetted grazing reserves have been encroached by structures, settlements and farms, Al-Makura said.

The governor said over 700 kilometres of grazing route of about 30 meter wide traversed through the state and most of the routes were no longer visible due to encroachment by settlers, farmers and developers.

He said that government would take stock of the grazing reserves to ensure that farms, structures and settlements encroaching on it were removed in order to reduce the pressure on available land for farming and grazing.

Al-Makura said the skirmishes in the state were repercussion of the crisis in Benue, adding that the government was working round the clock to restore peace in the affected communities.

He announced that the Police had sent three additional Mobile units to augment the six units previously deployed.

He added that the operation cat race soon to be launched by the military which would ensure the restoration of peace in the border communities.

The governor decried the panic migration of people from Awe, Keana, Obi and Doma Local Government Areas due to the activities of militants.

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He appealed to the people to go back home assuring them that the security reinforcement would ensure their security

Meanwhile, there seems to be no end to the crisis between Benue state governor, Samuel Ortom, and his counterpart in Plateau state, Simon Lalong, as Ortom warned him to stop interfering in Benue affairs, Tribune reports.

NAIJ.com gathered that Governor Ortom gave the warning on Monday, February 12, at a stakeholders meeting with National Economic Council (NEC) technical committee on herdsmen/ farmers crisis resolution led by the governor of Ebonyi Ebonyi state, David Umahi.

He told Lalong's representative in Makurdi: Please tell your boss when you see him to stop interfering with affairs in my state, let him mind his business in Plateau and I will mind my own business here."

Victims of herdsmen killing buried in Benue state - on NAIJ.com TV

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Loading...Home | News | General | Benue killings: Nigerian Army starts Operation Cat Race in North Central

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA  THE Nigerian Army will commence the exercise it code-named, Operation Cat Race in the North Central zone of the country this week to tackle the issue of farmers/herdsmen crisis.

Recruits undergo training at the headquaters of the Depot of the Nigerian Army in Zaria, Kaduna State in northcentral Nigeria, on October 5, 2017.

This was disclosed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Chief Femi Adesina in a video he released after the weekly security meeting which was chaired by President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Monday.

Adesina in the video said, The Security Council meeting has just been concluded chaired by President Muhammadu Buhari and all the security chiefs in attendance.

Of course, the issues that came under discussion include the farmers/herdsmen crises in different parts of the country. Cattle rustling, arm banditry, anything that constitutes security challenge was discussed and the intention was tackle all these issues in different parts of the country.

The exercise by the Nigerian army called Operation Cat Race has been announced and it takes off later this week in the North Central zone. It is expected that this will bring under control to a large extent the issues of farmers and herdsmen crisis and other ancillary security challenges in that zone.

This once again has confirmed the fact that President Buhari is not just sitting pretty to quote him in an air conditions offices and air conditions homes and doing nothing about the security challenges, he is up and doing about it.

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Loading...Home | News | General | NASS will not allow concession of national assets  Dogara

The Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr Yakubu Dogara, says the National Assembly will not allow concession of any national economic assets.

Dogara said this on Monday in Ajaokuta, Kogi, after a facility tour of Ajaokuta Steel Complex in company with the state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.

He said that facilities at the complex were capable of transforming the country and blamed the collapse of the steel company over the years on lack of political leadership.

He said that there was no reason for the company to have failed.

Dogara stressed that the National Assembly would complement President Muhammadu Buharis determination to revive the steel company, which had the potential to generate initial 10,000 jobs for Nigerian Engineers and another two million multi-sectoral jobs.

He remarked that with the willpower shown by the president, 500 million dollars required to complete the project could be sourced from many avenues, including Sovereign Wealth Fund, opened to the government.

On his part, Gov. Bello called for effective collaboration among the arms of government at the federal level in pursuit of development in the country.

Bello urged the Federal Government to use a fraction of the recovered looted funds to revive the Ajaokuta Steel Company.

NAN

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Loading...Home | News | General | Brazil will not shut border to Venezuelans, seeks to organise flow

Brazil will not block Venezuelans from entering the country through the border in the northern state of Roraima, but has launched a task force to organise the flow and provide resources for cities and states dealing with the refugees.

Thousands of Venezuelans escaping hunger in the Andean country have crossed the border with Brazil in recent months, causing a humanitarian emergency in the city of Boa Vista, Roraimas capital.

The local government said that they already represent 10 per cent of the population, or about 40,000 people, stressing public services.

President Michel Temer flew to Boa Vista with some ministers and government officials for meetings with local authorities to better assess the situation.

He promised to provide financial assistance for Roraima and to organise the flow of Venezuelans inside Brazil, including the possibility of transporting some of the refugees to other states.

Many of the people coming from crisis-hit Venezuela have walked hundreds of kilometres to reach Boa Vista and have been sleeping in squares and other precarious areas in the city.

Local authorities said they have no financial resources to deal with the influx alone, meanwhile temporary shelters are full.

Recently, a house where dozens of Venezuelans were living in Boa Vista was set on fire by a Brazilian man, who was later arrested.

Temer said after the meeting that the government will not forbid the entrance, but will try to organise the flow.

NAN

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Loading...Home | News | General | LNSC apprehends six robbery suspects who attacked worshipers during prayer session

By Evelyn Usman

Officials of the Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps, LNSC have apprehended four suspected members of a robbery gang who attacked members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God , during a prayer session on Lagos Island.

DIG Isreal Ajao

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects were also members were also cultists .

The suspects: Rahman Mogaji( 32), Timileyin Olusegun (21) Adeyinka Oduwoye ( 28) Kehinde Imutola (35) Temitope Agboola (20) and Dare Abiodun (20) as gathered, stormed the prayer ground at the Tafa Balewa Square , where they dispossessed the worshipers of valuables , including cash. Some of them wee said to have also engaged in  pick pocket.

Spokes man for the Corp, Afolabi Olawale who confirmed the arrest, said : The LNSC team during one of its regular motorized patrol ,received an intelligence/distress call on the activities of the gang at the venue of the prayer session. The team swung into action immediately and with the cooperation of members of the church, two members of the gang were apprehended and taken to the Corps Custody for interrogation. The interrogation later led to the arrest of four other members . They all confessed to have been involved in activities of Pick-Pocketing, stealing and burglary in Lagos Island area.

 It was also observed during interrogation, that all the suspects have one or two marks in different coloration and identifications similar to those of cultists. This made LNSC to hand-over the suspects to the Lion Building Police division for further interrogation and possible prosecution.

Meanwhile, the Board Chairman, DIG Israel Ajao (Rtd) clarified that LNSC was not established to harass anyone but to protect all and sundry in line with the policy of the present administration in the State which is centred on the people.

But we need the cooperation of all to achieve a safer and secured Lagos, therefore all law abiding citizens should continue to go about their lawful businesses without any fear.

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Loading...Home | News | General | Insecurity: Governors back Buhari on State Police

By Henry Umoru

ABUJA- GOVERNORS of the thirty- Six states of the Federation under the aegis of Nigeria Governors Forum, NGF, Monday threw their weight behind the presidency on the decentralisation of police in the country.

From the left, Governor Akinwumi Ambode of Lagos State; Governor Tanko Almakura of Nasarawa State; Governor Mustapher Belo of Niger State; Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State; Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State and other members of the Nigeruan Governor Forum during the audience the President had with members of the Nigerian Governors Forum at the Aso Chambers, State House, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida 27/11/2017

Addressing Journalists Monday in Abuja at the end of the two- day National Security Summit organized by the Senate to review the current security infrastructure in Nigeria, Chairman of the Governors Forum, and governor of Zamfara State, Abdulaziz Yari said that the Governors Forum had endorsed the idea of state police since 2015 but the division within it at that time made it difficult for them to marshal further action on it.

According to him, the Governors met later in August 2017 and reached a common ground on state police which they have now put on the table at this security summit.

The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo while declaring open the Summit, had presented the position of the Presidency which stressed the need for state and community policing if the present security challenges in the country must be nipped in the bud in all its ramifications.

Professor Yemi Osinbajo who noted that every Nigerian deserves the protection of his life and property, had however admitted that there were instances where security agencies failed to properly and urgently respond to security issues, however listed some basic challenges that are presently affecting a full secure Nigeria.

The position of the governors Monday, tallies with the resolution of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on restructuring.

Yari who dismissed fears that State Police would become a weapon of coercion if left in the hands of State Police, however argued that if Governors are not doing same with State Court; he doubts if they would do that with state police.

The governor said,  you know the issue of security is not something that the nation can play with because the primary responsibility of government anywhere in the world is to ensure that the life and property of citizens are protected. And so many challenges of Nigeria in the past ten years is ranging from Boko Haram, cattle rustlers, armed banditry, militancy in the Niger Delta is dwindling the Nigerian economy and threatening even the unity of the nation.

 For example in August, 2017, we had a summit under the leadership of the acting president then, which issues are raised by the armed forces, police different security agencies and also opinion professionals in the security where recommendations were made and they are being exchanged by the office of the National Security Adviser.

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Loading...Home | News | General | All men of God should pray for Shatta Wale  Counselor Lutterodt

- Popular pastor, Counsellor Lutterodt has requested for prayers for Shatta Wale

- According to him, the dancehall musician's ego needs to be spiritually managed

- He went ahead to admit that he is a member of the Shatta Movement

Ghanaian counsellor and pastor, George Cyril Lutterodt, has pleaded with men of God in Ghana to intercede on behalf of dancehall musician, Shatta Wale.

According to him, the leader of the Shatta Movement (SM) needs prayers because his ego has to be managed as soon as possible.

Counsellor Lutterodt passed these comments in reaction to an alleged threat by the dancehall artiste to burn some churches in Ghana if he lives till the end of the year.

Shatta Wale

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale blasts pastor who says he will die soon (video)

Speaking with Kofi Adomah Nwanwani, Counsellor Lutterodt stated that he is yet to come across a fake man of God ever since he received his calling as a man of God.

In that regard, he added, the ordinary person doesnt see the things pastors see or hear from God.

He argued that there is a need to listen to pastors because when people are close to God, they exhibit the goodness of God".

The Counselor further noted that stated that he is a member of the SM Movement, and in that regard, he feels the need to apologize for and call for support and prayers for Shatta Wale.

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Loading...Home | Politics | Supporters of Kwara APC stalwarts welcome move to PDP

Some members of All Progressive Congress (APC) in Kwara have lauded the decision of some stalwarts to quit the party, saying they may join to them move to another party.

Mr Sunday Fasanmi, the spokesperson of the APC stalwarts, Mr Olabode Towoju and Mr Tunji Olawuyi made this known while briefing newsmen on Monday in Abuja.

He said the decision of the two party stalwarts to move to another party, specifically to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was due to the shabby treatments they had been experiencing in the party.

Speaking on behalf of the supporters, Fasanmi said the ill treatment of the principle officers of APC in Kwara amounted to betrayal of trust.

The two APC party members Towoju and Olawuyi, contested for the House of Representatives in Irepodun, Isin, Oke-ero and Ekiti Federal Constituency of Kwara at different times.

He said Towoju worked assiduously for the party in the state and at the federal level but was shot-changed when the party got into power.

And in spite of the ill treatment, Towoju was not perturbed, he said.

He said the supporters were ready to move en mass if it would provide a viable platform for them to realise their ambition of serving the people.

He said Towoju had been very useful to the people of his constituency, particularly his community; hence the supporters would do all within their powers to make his dream come through.

Fasanmi said once the stalwarts gave the supporters the go ahead to move into the PDP, they would not hesitate, stressing that the APC had been unfair and lacking in internal democracy in the state.

He said supporters of Olawuyi were also tired of the way the APC was handling him, adding that they also awaiting his directive to invite them to PDP.

We can no longer be onlookers while people who did little or nothing to help the APC keep running the affairs of the party, he said.

He said soon a date would be communicated to the people when they would finally quit the APC in the state, adding that this became necessary to save their political careers.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM: PoliticsThere are reports of investors, both Zimbabweans in the diaspora and foreign nationals, "flooding" into Zimbabwe to open shop following the "Zimbabwe is open for business call by President Mnangagwa.

"South Africa-based company, Big Time Strategic Group will launch nine companies in the country as part of efforts to heed calls by President Emmerson Mnangagwa for Zimbabweans in the diaspora to invest back home," reported Bulawayo24. Group chief executive and proprietor Mr Justice Maphosa, a Zimbabwean, said the nine companies have already been registered in Zimbabwe.

"We may say nice things, but on the ground you find that there are issues that need clarification. We will direct them to correct authorities. If you find that a door is closed, a situation which was common in the past dispensation, come to my office and I will open that door," President Mnangagwa told would-be foreign investors in Zurich, Switzerland, last month.

Mnangagwa was right, it was Zimbabwe's culture of corruption, bureaucratic meddling and lawlessness that had resulted in closing doors to would-be investors. The President was honest enough, whether he did not want to do so or not is now irrelevant, to admit the closed-door culture is still very much alive in Zimbabwe in the new dispensation.

Many of the would-be foreign investors will not going to President Mnangagwa's office so he can open these doors for them; they will continue to shy away from Zimbabwe until there are no closed door. They know to see Mnangagwa they will have to wait their turn, that could take months, or have to "grease" a few connected people; business people hate this with a passion.

Mr Justice Maphosa was not phased by the prospect of having to deal with the many closed-doors. He will see President Mnangagwa and have the doors opened for him! It is not just crocodiles that thrive in muddy water, catfish too successfully hunt in these waters using their long whiskers! However, if we are serious about making Zimbabwe attractive to investors, especially the foreign investors who dread the challenge of having to wait and/or grease corrupt hands to do business then we must do more to open the closed doors.

For the last 38 years Zimbabwe has been stuck with a corrupt, incompetent and tyrannical Zanu PF dictatorship; the sacred cow which was not be criticized let alone removed from office. This was and still is the root cause of the country's, seemingly, intractable political and economic mess.

Much as President Mnangagwa and his coup regime would want the world to believe that Zimbabwe has changed since the November 2017 coup, the sad reality is that it is still under the monolithic dictatorial grip. The coup removed Mugabe and the "criminal elements around him", as the new regime claimed. What the new regime has failed to say is that many of the criminals are still in power and, most important of all, that Zanu PF is still a sacred cow.

President Mnangagwa has promised free, fair and credible elections and yet has done nothing to implement the raft of democratic reforms necessary to make that possible.

"Another South African tycoon, Mr Robert Matana Gumede, was in the country last month to cement a $1,2 billion investment deal in key sectors of the economy which include infrastructure development, energy, health services, tourism and financial services," continued the Bulawayo 24 report.

"Mr Maphosa said the call for business people to invest in the country was long overdue and thanked the President for inviting business people to invest in the country.

"It's long overdue, we very appreciate a man, a comrade, a father, grandfather, a Zimbabwean like the President that we have right now. It's something that we have been crying for especially us in the diaspora, this is why we are in the diaspora. We have been crying for a President like him, a President who can appeal to us the youth," quoting Mr Maphosa.

"Kukanganwa chezuro nehope!" (Some people forget yesterday's troubles with a night's sleep!) as one would say in Shona. Those of us who care to remember, know that for decades many people have lauded praise on former President Robert Mugabe's leadership but would never mention the elephant in the room  the corrupt and tyrannical dictatorship.

Millions of Zimbabweans are in the diaspora today NOT because successive Zanu PF regimes had failed "to call for business people to invest in the country". As long as nothing is done to end the corrupt, lawlessness and tyrannical rule in Zimbabwe which has made doing business impossible the call to invest will remain a forlorn one.

What has and still remains long overdue is the implementing the democratic reforms designed to dismantle the dictatorship, sacred cow. The failure to hold free, fair and credible elections in this year's elections; which is now a certainty, given that President Mnangagwa has stubbornly refused to implement the democratic reforms; will confirm what we already know  that Zimbabwe is still a lawless nation ruled by thugs.

No investor in his/her right mind would ever want to do business in a lawless nation ruled by thugs!

Zimbabweans have a simple choice; pile on the pressure on this coup Mnangagwa government to implement the democratic reforms and make sure the coming elections are free fair and verifiable. This will end the country's pariah status and restore the public confidence in the country as a stable and law-abiding nation. All this globe-trotting telling everyone Zimbabwe is ready to do business will not be necessary  the world will know!

Or we can all bury our heads in the sand and pretend the world will be fooled into believing the removal of Robert Mugabe as the figure head of the Zanu PF dictatorship was enough to make the country a healthy and functional democracy. The failure to hold free and fair elections will confirm the Zanu PF dictatorship is alive and kicking. The business people will take note, if any had been fooled, and take flight!

What has been lacking in Zimbabwe and is therefore long overdue is outstanding Zimbabweans with the good sense to help the country finally make the right political choice. What the country needs desperately, more desperately than misguided business people like Mr Maphosa, is men and women who will stand up to these Zanu PF thugs, look them straight in the eyes, and tell them some home truths.

"Zimbabwe must implement the democratic reforms and end the Zanu PF dictatorship and the economic meltdown it brought! That is not negotiable!"

Enough of all this North Korea style "Crying for comrade, father, grandfather, President who appeal to us!" nonsense!Home | World | Africa | Mnangagwa turning Zimbabwe into a Kenya through tribal politics

FORMER Finance Minister and opposition leader Tendai Biti has roundly condemned President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his own erstwhile colleagues for allegedly turning Zimbabwe into a Kenya through tribal politics.

NewZimbabwe.com reported that the People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader was speaking during a panel discussion at SAPES Trust in Harare this past week.

Biti took a swipe at Mnangagwa and his new Zanu-PF regime for allegedly displaying tribal attitudes just like his predecessor Robert Mugabe when he was still in power.

"I know that in the 37 years of Mugabe's rule there is ample justification of arguing against the Zezurunisation or Zezuru hegemony, but you don't answer a wrong with a wrong," Biti said while referring to Mugabe's tribe.

" I have always argued that if the post-coup Zimbabwe was a law firm, it would be called Moyo, Sibanda and Associates.

"That's not good enough. Don't send us into Kenya; don't make certain ethnic groups feel alienated and reified to such an extent that they would be forced to organise at that primitive, ethno nationalistic level."

New President Mnangagwa was seen, by Zanu-PF rivals, during Mugabe's time as mounting a spirited campaign for a Karanga takeover.

The stance, at the time infuriated Mugabe, who often scolded his then deputy for being too biased towards his own tribe.

However, in his comments, Biti also condemned his former allies for viewing differences between them through the tribal lens.

"What I find regrettable is that there is an ethnic element to these comrades of ours that we are losing which is bad because this country has never had a serious problem of tribe like other countries.

"Kenya being a good example and so I have been in conversations where people that we have known to be very rational, very objective, who are suddenly so irrational, so crazy and then you ask what's the issue and the issue is tribe. I think that is unfortunate."

Biti was referring to his former allies within PDP who last year severed ties with him amid differences on whether or not to form a coalition with ex-Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai's MDC-T party.

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Loading...Home | World | Africa | Chiwenga recalls Zimbabwe coup

VICE-PRESIDENT Constantino Chiwenga yesterday told Zanu-PF supporters in Marondera that Operation Restore Legacy, which he commandeered last November, was meant to safeguard the ruling party's legacy.

Addressing a Zanu-PF Mashonaland East provincial co-ordinating committee (PCC) at Malwate in Marondera, Chiwenga said had the army not intervened, Zanu-PF was at risk of being destroyed the same way Zambia's revolutionary party, UNIP, was wiped out of the country's history books.

"The army, parliamentarians, war veterans, ex-detainees and the masses with the guidance of God went out because there was disorder on our God-given land. What was happening? Even those who were kids in 1980 were saying we do not care about you going to war. That must not be done. Our icon, who was with us during the liberation struggle, was now being surrounded by these people. If we had allowed that to happen, it means that our party was going to be history," he said.

"We were going to be like UNIP of Zambia, the party liberated east and south, it liberated Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Namibia. All were liberated by UNIP while still in power. But now, if we meet them we just say we were liberated by the people of Zambia, what else can we say? Is that what you wanted? This is what we were against, and this is what the masses of Zimbabwe refused."

Chiwenga said government and the ruling party would take care of Mugabe and that they will never ignore the leader who ruled Zimbabwe for 37 years.

"We are going to take care of him (Mugabe) forever, we will not forsake him. But others wanted to take advantage of him anticipating taking over power, which power? We have learnt that if we relax, those are the consequences. If we do not guard our party, those are the consequences," he said.

Chiwenga, who was in the company of his wife Marry, hailed First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa for surrendering the Chirumanzu-Zibagwe seat to focus on national developmental projects.

He also disclosed that the politburo had agreed to incorporate members of the general staff into the National Constitutional Assembly.

"In the last politburo, we agreed that all members of the general staff be co-opted into the NCA with immediate effect. No one is left out and let's work hard for the party and make sure that we win elections," he said.

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Loading...Home | World | Africa | 'Tsvangirai's family are not the MDC-T party,' says Chamisa

Power struggles remained in the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) over the weekend, with Nelson Chamisa maintaining that he was the acting president of Zimbabwe's main opposition party.

Reports last week indicated that the MDC was embroiled in a power struggle over who was in charge of the party - months before key elections - as its leader Morgan Tsvangirai received cancer treatment in hospital.

Chamisa and Elias Mudziri, who were both vice presidents of the MDC clashed openly over who was acting leader while Tsvangirai underwent chemotherapy at Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre in Johannesburg.

Both Chamisa, 40, and Mudzuri, 60, claimed on social media to be in charge as the party prepared to take on the ruling Zanu-PF in the first polls since Robert Mugabe's fall.

The crisis widened after Tsvangirai's family also weighed in, supporting Mudzuri as the acting leader of the party.

According to an SABC news report, Tsvangirai's family said that Mudzuri was in charge of the party.

But in an interview with News24, Chamisa said that although he "respected" the veteran politician's family, it was unfortunate that they were "not privy to party decisions" as they were structures within the MDC to do that.

Chamisa said he was busy preparing for the forthcoming elections as per Tsvangirai's instruction.

"Look I don't understand what the family is saying. We are not worried about what they are saying," he said.

"I respect my president's family but they are not the party. The party has its own structures in place to communicate party matters, and those channels are exactly the ones through which the issue of being appointed as acting party leader."

But Chamisa, who claimed to have met with several party structures, including the women's and youth leagues, said that he was not going to be side stepped from doing what he had been instructed to do by Tsvangirai.

"I am an acting president because I was instructed to act in that capacity. I am not going to lose focus of the bigger picture because of an unnecessary stampede. I am in Mashonaland east and meeting the people. We want our darts stack in a row and prepare for an election. We want to deliver a prosperous country for Zimbabweans, and we can only do that when we remain focused," said Chamisa.

The youthful leader said that the party remained united and was preparing to win the elections.

Chamisa said the party's "integrity and unity" remained intact despite a widening leadership fight among the two deputies.

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Loading...Home | World | Africa | Mnangagwa welcomed by Ian Khama in Botswana

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Gaborone, Botswana for a 2-day state visit to the diamond rich-country.

The Botswana government rolled out the red carpet for President Mnangagwa this Monday morning.

President Ian Khama was on hand at the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport to warmly welcome his Zimbabwean counterpart on his first state visit.

A military band played the two countries' national anthems as a 21-gun salute was being fired.

President Mnangagwa then inspected a military guard mounted in his honour.

President Khama then introduced President Mnangagwa to more than 15 members of his cabinet who were part of the welcoming party.

President Mnangagwa also introduced 11 Zimbabwean cabinet ministers who travelled ahead of the Presidential delegation.

These are Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Retired Lieutenant General Sibusiso Moyo; Environment, Water and Climate Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, Home Affairs and Culture Minister Dr Obert Mpofu, Minister for Presidential Affairs Responsible for Monitoring of Government Programmes Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, Energy and Power Development Minister, who is also Acting Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Simon Khaya Moyo, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Dr Joram Gumbo, Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development Minister Professor Amon Murwira, Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando, Industry, Commerce and Enterprise Development Minister Dr Mike Bimha, Finance and Economic Planning Minister Patrick Chinamasa, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Ambassador Joey Bimha among others.

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Loading...Home | World | Africa | 'Dokora thanks God for O'level exam paper leak'

The outspoken Norton house of assembly member Temba Mliswa has said that the sacked Minister of Education, Sport and Culture Lazarus Dokora is thanking God for the recent Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) English Paper II leak as he would have been blamed for it.

"I'm sure that Dokora is thanking God that he is no longer Minister of Education as l'm sure the recent leak would've been blamed on him," he said via Twitter.

However, some Twitter users believe Dokora should not be spared on the blame since the paper leaked during his tenure.

Busai B Sithole said "He contributed though the current system in min of education have his input."

"Still it's his fault because the paper leaked during his era," said VablacksGono Meanwhile, Mliswa said the whole ZIMSEC should be overhauled and be brought before the Parliament Committee.

"I woudn't want to be the Minister of Education now. When l was the Chair of the Parly Committee on Education we visited ZimSec and were assured that all the systems were in place so l am surprised to hear of the leak. ZimSec must be overhauled and brought before the Committee."

According to Zimsec director Esau Nhandara English Language Paper II will be rewritten on 16 February 2018 at 10 am and ZimSec will take custody of all candidate scripts by 2:30pm on the same day.

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Loading...SLIDE 1/6  ATTACK OF RIDERS (76101)

Minifigures include: Captain America, Black Widow, Outriders, Space Stone



Unite with Captain America and the Black Widow to protect the kingdom of Wakanda from the invasion of foreigners. Avoid the fire from the thorns of the landing ships, restrain the attacks of six-armed enemies and attack, using the shield of Captain America. Pounce on the enemies with the truncheons of the Black Widow and get the cosmic stone of infinity!





SLIDE 2/6  THE SEARCH FOR THORS WEAPON (76102)

Minifigures include: Rocket Raccoon, Groot, Thor, Unknown Infinity Stone



Join the Avengers, who are trying to find the ax-thunderbolt for Thor. Sit down in the cab of the rescue capsule with Rocket, Thor and Groot and go into space. On the way to Nidavellir you will meet many enemies, you can be protected from them by shooting from the thorns. Land on the red planet to charge Tors power plants in the space forge. Find the stone of infinity, untwist the energy ray and create an amazing ax-thunderer!





SLIDE 3/6  CORVIS GLAIVE ATTACKS (76103)

Minifigure s include: Corvus Glaive, Vision, Black Panther, Shiri, Mind Stone



Protect the Wall of the Wakid from Corvus Gleiv and his thresher! Shoot at the threshing machine of double guns-thorns and a disk shooter. Quickly open the gate so that the Black Panther can enter the battle. But do not forget to close them immediately, so that the enemies do not break in. Help Shuri to remove the infinity stone that controls the mind from the head of the Vision. Can you do this before the thresher crushes the wall and destroys the diagnostic setup?





SLIDE 4/6  THE HULKBUSTER FIGHT (76104)

Minifigures include: Proxima Midnight, Falcon, Hulk/Bruce Banner, Soul Stone



Danger! Proxima Midnight captured the shooting tower and shoots on Hulkbuster Bruce Banner! Smash the missile installation of the shooting tower with the powerful fist of Hulkbuster and crush the six-armed enemy. Reflect the punches of the Proksima Midnight. Order the Falcon to dive down to take away the stone of infinity of souls.





SLIDE 5/6  THANOS: THE LAST BATTLE (76107)

Minifigures include: Thanos, Iron Man, Star Lord, Gamora



Together with the Avengers, start the fight for the Glove of Infinity! Shoot at Thanos from the ships thorns. Open the cockpit and attack the space bike along with Star Lord and Gamora. Avoid the blows of Thanoss huge sword and use the Iron Mans power units to defeat Titans supervillain. Having won, grab the golden glove of infinity and fly away.





SLIDE 6/6  THE BATTLE IN THE SANCTUM SANCTORUM (76108)

Minifigures include: Cull Obsidian, Ebony Maw, Doctor Strange, Iron Man, Spider-Man



Emergency! Kull Obsidian and Ebony Mo are attacking the Holy of Holies of Dr. Strange! Together with the Spiderman, jump off them from the roof. Unite with the Iron Man and Dr. Strange and use their powers to repel super villains. If Ebony Mo is able to penetrate the bedroom of Peter Parker, lead him from there through the secret hatch. You must stop the evil invaders before they blow up the wall of the Holy of Holies Dr. Strange and get the stone of infinity of time. After defeating your enemies, order pizza and celebrate it with Peter Parker!Canada Overhauling Project Review Scheme

There will be less red tape and less duplication for project proposers to navigate, according to the officials, who said the government will expand the types of impacts studied to understand how a proposed project could affect not just the environment, but also its long-term health, social, and economic impacts, as well as impacts on indigenous peoples.

The Canadian government is overhauling the scheme it uses to assess proposed major projects' impacts, especially environmental impacts. The announced changes will include replacing the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012, with the Impact Assessment Act and also establishing the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (currently the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency) to lead all federal reviews of major projects.

"A new wave of resource development is coming with more than $500 billion in projects planned over the next 10 years," said Jim Carr, minister of Natural Resources. "We are building a better Canada, where investors, companies, and all Canadians can have confidence that good projects will be approved in a timely manner and held to the highest standard. With these better rules, we will demonstrate how we can grow the economy and get our resources to market while advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and protecting the environment for future generations."

Timely approval means there will be less red tape and less duplication for project proposers to navigate, according to the officials, who said the government will expand the types of impacts studied to understand how a proposed project could affect not just the environment, but also its long-term health, social, and economic impacts, as well as impacts on indigenous peoples.

The plan is to add a new, early engagement phase for the public to participate in project reviews and to enable reduced project timelines compared to the current system. "We are seeking Canadians feedback on a more robust project list, identifying types of projects within federal jurisdiction that could pose major risks to the environment and would therefore require review," the government's Feb. 8 announcement said.IAEA, EU Agree to Boost Training Collaboration

"Nuclear safety and security remain our key priorities, both in Europe and globally," added Gerassimos Thomas, deputy director general in the Directorate-General for Energy of the European Commission. "In 2018, the EU will conduct its first-ever topical peer review on aging management of nuclear power plants under the amended Nuclear Safety Directive."

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the European Union recently held their sixth annual Senior Officials Meeting in Vienna, Austria, and agreed to strengthen their cooperation in several areas. The Feb. 9 event at IAEA's headquarters covered their collaboration on nuclear safety, security, safeguards, sustainable development, nuclear energy research, and increasing innovation.

"The EU is a significant partner for the IAEA, and these annual gatherings of senior officials serve an important role in helping to coordinate our activities," said Cornel Feruta, chief coordinator for IAEA. "We have been pleased by progress made in working together on several nuclear-related issues and look forward to deepening our cooperation, in particular in the area of nuclear applications for sustainable development."

"Nuclear safety and security remain our key priorities, both in Europe and globally," added Gerassimos Thomas, deputy director general in the Directorate-General for Energy of the European Commission. "In 2018, the EU will conduct its first-ever topical peer review on aging management of nuclear power plants under the amended Nuclear Safety Directive. It will also advance its strategic agenda on non-power applications in medicine, industry, and research. We are working in close cooperation with the IAEA on these matters."

The two parties reaffirmed support for the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action based on their respective mandates, and they agreed to further strengthen cooperation in training and in research and development.

Their next Senior Officials Meeting is expected to take place in Luxembourg in early 2019.1. Yes. COVID-19 can only be stopped through vaccinations. A mandate is needed.

2. Yes. This is a major step, but were facing a national emergency. It is a justifiable move.

3. No. The government is right to promote vaccinations, but not to require them.

4. No. This is government overreach and legally questionable. A mandate is wrong.

5. Unsure. Its in the publics interest, but mandates infringe on individuals rights.

Vote

View ResultsIt All Begins with a Baseline Audiogram

Every day, workers everywhere are exposed to noise during their workday that may be loud enough  or occasionally loud enough  to be damaging to their hearing. Without adequate protection and procedures, long-term damage can occur. This is why workplace safety, and hearing conservation programs, are essential for the long-term health and well-being of our working men and women.

The United States Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that employers must incorporate a hearing conservation program when workers are exposed to noise levels that average 85dB over an 8-hour workday. 85dB sounds like a diesel truck, a snow blower, or a milling machine. 90dB sounds like a power mower, an arc welder, or a newspaper press. And 100dB  which is damaging to human hearing when exposure last for prolonged periods to time - is equivalent to the sound of a jet taking off, a farm tractor, or a jackhammer. None of these are uncommon sounds for many average working Americans.

And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that "four million workers go to work each day in damaging noise conditions. Ten million people in the U.S. have a noise-related hearing loss. Twenty-two million workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise each year."

In order to maintain compliance with OSHA guidelines related to occupational hearing conservation programs, those employees whose work environment exposes them 85dB of noise over that 8-hour work shift are required to undergo a hearing test for the purpose of producing a baseline audiogram. This test is provided by the employer and must be done within the first 6 months of employment. Sooner would be better.

So, what is a baseline audiogram?

A baseline audiogram is intended to provide a reference point for future audiometric tests. This is the audiogram against which future audiograms are compared, making it possible to determine if an employee's hearing has changed since that initial hearing test was performed. This baseline may determine that the employee joined the organization with mild, moderate, or even severe hearing loss. The initial level of hearing is not the goal of obtaining a baseline test, and employees should not be concerned with where their hearing threshold levels lie. It's the comparative results over time that are imperative to monitor in a hearing conservation program. As such, establishing that baseline as close to the first date of employment is imperative. If that initial baseline does in fact indicate some hearing loss and it was only performed six months after the employees start date, is that loss the result of noise in the workplace or did the employee join your company with that level of hearing? This could be difficult to determine.MSHA Chief Discusses Modernizing Data Collection in Testimony

Assistant Secretary David Zatezalo discussed MSHA's initiative to reform and modernize its data collection, saying too often in the past, "data was not synchronized or easily disseminated throughout the agency." He said modernization ideas include using more digital tools in the field and better data dissemination across the agency.

The U.S. Houston Education and the Workforce Committee's Subcommittee on Workforce Protections held a hearing Feb. 6 to discuss the Mine Safety and Health Administration's 2018 priorities, hearing testimony from one witness: David Zatezalo, the assistant secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health. The subcommittee is chaired by Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Ala., who described mining as "not only essential for Americas homes and businesses; it is an essential industry for the economy. This is an industry that literally keeps the lights on, and it deserves our gratitude."

Byrne said more than 319,000 Americans were employed by the mining industry during 2017, "and we must ensure they have a safe and healthful workplace."

Zatezalo discussed the safety in the industry and the need to modernize MSHA's data collection. He also said, "There is a perception among the broader public that MSHA is an agency whose primary focus is coal. While coal is a significant component of MSHA's responsibilities, we need to reemphasize that our mission is much broader than just one commodity.

"In 2017, he said, "a total of 28 mining fatalities occurred. That is 28 too many. I strongly believe, as I know you agree, even one mining fatality is one too many. However, 2017 represented the second lowest number of deaths ever recorded and the third year in MSHA's history that there were fewer than 30 fatalities." He promised that the agency's inspectors and other personnel "will work even harder across both sectors to promote miner safety through vigorous but evenhanded enforcement, technological advancements, education and training, and compliance and technical assistance."

"Last year, [U.S. Labor] Secretary Acosta learned that approximately 15 percent of MSHA's inspectors and technical personnel did not meet MSHAs medical standards, and that the percentage had been increasing over the past several years," he said. "Accordingly, Secretary Acosta directed MSHA to develop an effective, consistent, and equitable plan to remediate this issue. I am pleased to report that two months ahead of the department's February 1st goal, MSHA completed all necessary individualized assessments for each case of an employee who did not meet a medical standard224 in total. As of today, all but 10 cases have been resolved."

He discussed MSHA's initiative to reform and modernize its data collection, saying too often in the past, "data was not synchronized or easily disseminated throughout the agency." He said modernization ideas include using more digital tools in the field and better data dissemination across the agency.

"I am pleased to report that we will be rolling out a modernized Inspection Application System in the field. This system will provide our inspectors with lightweight, ruggedized tablets and digital tools that will improve data accuracy and capture enhanced data as they record their findings. I expect the rollout to begin by mid-February and conclude within a few months," he said.Footprints of mammoths, dated to 43,000 years ago, are seen in a portion of a trackway that was uncovered by researchers in 2017 in an ancient dry lake bed in Lake County, Oregon. Credit: Greg Shine, Bureau of Land Management

A fossilized trackway on public lands in Lake County, Oregon, may reveal clues about the ancient family dynamics of Columbian mammoths.

Recently excavated by a team from the University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History, the Bureau of Land Management and the University of Louisiana, the trackway includes 117 footprints thought to represent a number of adults as well as juvenile and infant mammoths.

Discovered by Museum of Natural and Cultural History paleontologist Greg Retallack during a 2014 class field trip on fossils at the UO, the Ice Age trackway is the focus of a new study appearing online ahead of print in the journal Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology.

Retallack returned to the site with the study's coauthors, including UO science librarian Dean Walton, in 2017. The team zeroed in on a 20-footprint track, dating to roughly 43,000 years ago, that exhibited some intriguing features.

"These prints were especially close together, and those on the right were more deeply impressed than those on the left-as if an adult mammoth had been limping," said Retallack, also a professor in the UO Department of Earth Sciences and the study's lead author.

But, as the study reveals, the limping animal wasn't alone: Two sets of smaller footprints appeared to be approaching and retreating from the limper's trackway.

"These juveniles may have been interacting with an injured adult female, returning to her repeatedly throughout the journey, possibly out of concern for her slow progress," Retallack said. "Such behavior has been observed with wounded adults in modern, matriarchal herds of African elephants."

The tracks were made in a layer of volcanic soil at Fossil Lake, a site first excavated by UO science professor Thomas Condon in 1876 and today administered by the Bureau of Land Management.

Video takes viewers on a journey above and along a mammoth trackway at a remote site in Lake County, Oregon. Evidence for the site was found in 2014 by the UO's Gregory Retallack and excavated in 2017 by a research team. The ancient path contains multiple footprints of Columbian mammoths that once roamed the region about 43,000 years ago. Credit: Dean Walton, science and technology outreach librarian, University of Oregon

"America's public lands are some of the world's greatest outdoor laboratories. Localities such as this mammoth tracksite are unique parts of America's heritage and indicate that there are many special sites still to be discovered," said study co-author Brent Breithaupt, a paleontologist in the Wyoming State Office of the Bureau of Land Management.

Specimens from the 1876 Fossil Lake excavation-along with the rest of Condon's extensive assemblage of fossils and geologic specimens-were donated to UO in the early 1900s and form the core of the museum's Condon Fossil Collection, now under Retallack's direction and boasting upwards of 50,000 fossil specimens.

Last month a new state law went into effect, making the UO museum Oregon's default repository for fossils found on state lands. The museum is also a designated repository for artifacts and paleontological specimens collected from BLM-administered lands in Oregon, ensuring they are available to future generations for education and research.

As part of the 2017 study, Neffra Matthews of the BLM's National Operations Center in Denver, helped survey, map and document the trackway using photogrammetry, which helps scientists perform accurate measurements based on land-based or aerial photographs.

"There is a vast storehouse of natural history found on BLM-managed land, and it's exciting to work with researchers like Professor Retallack in capturing 3D data on fragile paleontological resources," she said.

Retallack said that trace fossils such as trackways can provide unique insights into natural history.

"Tracks sometimes tell more about ancient creatures than their bones, particularly when it comes to their behavior," he said. "It's amazing to see this kind of interaction preserved in the fossil record."

Elephants once roamed across much of North America. Woolly mammoths (Mammuthus primigenius) were common in Canada and Alaska. Columbian mammoths (Mammuthus columbi) occupied the region that became Washington state to South Dakota and south into Mexico. Most mammoths went extinct about 11,500 years ago, but some isolated Arctic island populations of woolly mammoth persisted until 4,000 years ago.

More information: Gregory J. Retallack et al, Late Pleistocene mammoth trackway from Fossil Lake, Oregon, Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology (2018). Journal information: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology Gregory J. Retallack et al, Late Pleistocene mammoth trackway from Fossil Lake, Oregon,(2018). DOI: 10.1016/j.palaeo.2018.01.037The WASP discovery photometry (top) and follow-up transit lightcurves (bottom). Credit: Temple et al., 2018.

An international group of astronomers has detected a new "hot Jupiter" exoplanet making a near-grazing transit of its host star. The newly found alien world, designated WASP-174b, is most likely similar in size and mass to Jupiter, however much hotter than our solar system's biggest planet. The discovery is reported February 2 in a paper published on arXiv.org.

A grazing transit means that a planet only partially transits its parent star's disc. Such planets are important for researchers, as they offer a great opportunity to find additional bodies orbiting host stars. This is because other, yet undetected objects would perturb the grazing planet's orbit and could potentially induce periodic variations of the transit impact parameter, leading to transit duration variations. However, although astronomers have identified hundreds of exoplanets, only a handful of grazing extrasolar worlds have been discovered to date.

Recently, a team of researchers led by Lorna Temple of the Keele University, U.K., has found a new example of a grazing exoplanet as part of the WASP-South transit survey. The astronomers identified a transit signal in the light curve of the star WASP-174 from the spectroscopic data gathered by the WASP-South telescope at the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) in South Africa between May 2006 and June 2012. The planetary nature of this signal was later confirmed by Doppler tomography method using the HARPS spectrograph mounted on ESO's 3.6-m telescope, along with photometric data from the TRAPPIST South telescope and the SPECULOOS Southern Observatory, all located in Chile.

"We report here the discovery of a hot Jupiter found as a candidate in the WASP-South transit survey and confirmed by Doppler tomography using the ESO 3.6-m/HARPS spectrograph, together with follow-up photometry from the TRAPPISTSouth and SPECULOOS Southern Observatory telescopes," the researchers wrote in the paper.

The authors noted that due to the grazing or near-grazing transit of WASP-174b, the planet's radius was difficult to measure. They assume that the value of this parameter lies between 0.7 to 1.7 Jupiter radii.

Furthermore, the researchers added that the mass of WASP-174b is also uncertain, given that the parent star is hot (6,400 K) and rotates rapidly (rotation period below 4.4 days), which limits the accuracy and precision of radial-velocity measurements. They only managed to calculate that the planet's mass should be no greater than 1.3 Jupiter masses.

The study found that WASP-174b orbits its star every 4.23 days at a distance of about 0.0555 AU from the host. It is estimated that the planet's equilibrium temperature is 1,470 K.

According to the study, the derived parameters of WASP-174b suggest that the exoplanet is a fairly inflated as it should have a radius larger than expected in gas giant planets. It was also classified as a "hot Jupiter," given that it is similar in characteristics to Jupiter, orbits its parent star very closely, and therefore has a high surface temperature.

The host is a 1.65-billion-year old star of spectral type F6V, about 30 percent larger and more massive than the sun. It has a V-band magnitude of 11.9, which, according to the authors of the paper, makes WASP-174 the faintest "hot-Jupiter" system for which the shadow of the planet has been detected by tomographic methods.

More information: Discovery of WASP-174b: Doppler tomography of a near-grazing transit, arXiv:1802.00766 [astro-ph.EP] Discovery of WASP-174b: Doppler tomography of a near-grazing transit, arXiv:1802.00766 [astro-ph.EP] arxiv.org/abs/1802.00766 Abstract

We report the discovery and tomographic detection of WASP-174b, a planet with a near-grazing transit on a 4.23-d orbit around a V = 11.9, F6V star with [Fe/H] = 0.09  0.09. The planet is in a moderately misaligned orbit with a sky-projected spin-orbit angle of  = 31  1. This is in agreement with the known tendency for orbits around hotter stars to be misaligned. Owing to the grazing transit the planet's radius is uncertain, with a possible range of 0.7-1.7 RJup. The planet's mass has an upper limit of 1.3 MJup. WASP-174 is the faintest hot-Jupiter system so far confirmed by tomographic means.

 2018 Phys.orgJewellery and watchmaker Sean Yu creates watches made with a cement surface that are a huge hit with Taiwan's consumers

With watches made from cement, furniture fashioned from factory pipes, and accessories created from motorbike leather, Taiwanese designers are winning new fans at home and abroad with their own brand of industrial chic.

The style reflects the island's sprawling cities and aims to breathe new life into mundane materials more often found on building sites or in workshops.

Jewellery and watchmaker Sean Yu uses concrete for his products, starting out by making rings from the material.

After experimenting with different types of concrete, he now uses a mix similar to the formula used to construct buildings.

His latest top-selling item is a mechanical watch with a concrete surface in the shape of a spiral staircase. It launched last year and set a sales record on crowd-funding website Zeczec, raising over Tw$12 million ($400,000) in pre-orders.

Yu says his style is inspired by acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Ando, known for his masterly use of concrete.

"I design for myself and for like-minded people who are avant-garde and rebellious, and who like novel things," Yu told AFP.

"What attracts me most about concrete is that when you treat an ordinary material well, you can deliver new values."

His products are also on sale in Britain, Japan and the United States.

With watches made from cement, furniture fashioned from factory pipes, and accessories created from motorbike leather, Taiwanese designers are winning new fans at home and abroad with their own brand of industrial chic

Plumber-turned-interior designer Daniel Cheng uses iron piping to create everything from lights to shelves and sofa frames.

Cheng branched out into furniture design when he was seeking to expand his business and also uses steel bars, tyres, truck wheel rims and car seats for his creations.

"My inspirations are simple. I was a plumber and it's something I worked with everyday," he said.

"I want to use my imagination to make something interesting and meaningful."

Cheng says most of his clients order custom-made products, with local celebrities among his fans, as well as businesses that have hired him to decorate restaurants, cafes and clothes shops.

Ginger Chang of the Taiwan Design Centre, which promotes local designers and brands, said the industrial look featuring cement, brass, aluminium and granite is increasingly popular as an interior design trend on the island.

"The public like fresh things and they are looking for something special in terms of materials. They like the one-of-a-kind feel," Chang told AFP.

Balance Wu, who co-designs products with his wife, wants to prevent motorcycle seat-pads and scrap leather from ending up as garbage, so uses them to create wallets, bags and accessories

Consumers are also drawn by a green element to some of the industrial chic products.

Balance Wu says he wants to prevent motorcycle seat-pads and scrap leather from ending up as garbage, so uses them to create wallets, bags and accessories.

There's no shortage of materialTaiwan's cities are clogged with mopedsand Wu's creations are now sold in design shops from Taipei to New York.

"Motorcycle leather is a humble and durable material that has to withhold wind, rain and sun every day," says Wu, who co-designs the products with his wife Chin Yang.

"We are turning this durable material into products that can be used for a long time."

 2018 AFPCredit: Shutterstock

Efficiency in nature's biomolecular processes, such as photosynthesis, is not wholly explained by conventional theory. The EU-funded PAPETS project explored quantum effects to better understand these processes, recently leading to further insights into the possibilities for quantum computation.

Until relatively recently it was thought that the strange behavior of entities reported from quantum physics, was manifested chiefly at the submicroscopic level. However, over the last few years, questions have been asked about the role of quantum behavior in more everyday, macroscopic biological processes. The EU-funded PAPETS project previous work on such biological phenomenon, principally in photosynthesis and olfaction, has fed into these recent findings.

Two quantum effects might explain biological processes which have somewhat puzzled researchers, namely: the ability to exist in several locations at the same time (superposition), along with being able to instantaneously disappear, and then reappear in an entirely different place.

The quantum maze

Researchers drawing on work conducted as part of the PAPETS project, explain in the journal Physical Review Letters how they recently managed to exploit temporality for quantum computation tasks performed on dynamic random networks. In order to test the limitations of quantum computation, the team studied a spatial search algorithm using quantum information, to find a marked node on a random temporal network.

The authors point out that it had already been demonstrated that quantum computation would offer a speed advantage in search tasks within networks above a certain threshold of nodal connectivity. However, they also found that below this threshold of connections, the quantum advantage no longer held.

In the study the researchers continually randomised the actual arrangement of the network, with the number of connections also changing, while keeping the number of nodes constant. They found that whatever the degree of connectivity, the quantum search algorithm always found, what they refer to as, 'a frequency' for generating new network arrangements, to find the marked node. Interestingly, the team discovered that even when they imposed a bias resulting in a very low connectivity of nodes, with many nodes isolated from the rest of the network, the algorithm created new networks arrangements at a faster rate to compensate.

The researchers' results were counter to the expectation that when trying to find a marked node in a network, whether it be social, natural or technological, the quantum search algorithm would struggle with the ever-changing nature of the network (losing and gaining links over time). In fact, they demonstrate that this temporal feature can be used as a control for the computation's performance. While the team anticipate their work will benefit quantum information technologies, for communication and computation, it also contributes to the understanding of biological processes.

When quantum effects meet biology

The PAPETS (Phonon-Assisted Processes for Energy Transfer and Sensing) project is now over. It was set up to explore how electronic and vibrational dynamics, specifically phonon-assisted mechanisms, plays a key role in the structure and function of biomolecular systems. The project examined the role that quantum effects might play in making plant photosynthesis as efficient as it is, by allowing the energy carrying excitons to explore different paths in the leaf simultaneously, finding the most efficient route to the target fuel molecules. The results are contributing to efforts to design better solar cells.

Additionally, the study looked at the way that quantum effects might aid the olfactory ability to recognise smells from molecules, through a process known as 'quantum tunneling', which helps a smell molecule unite with a receptor. This understanding holds out the prospect of developing technologies for odour sensing which could, for example, detect hazards in food or water.

Explore further Quantum algorithm could help AI think fasterArgonne scientists and collaborators used the Gammasphere, this powerful gamma ray spectrometer, to help create the right conditions to cause and spot a long-theorized effect called nuclear excitation by electron capture. Credit: Argonne National Laboratory

For the first time, physicists from the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory and their collaborators, led by a team from the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, demonstrated a long-theorized nuclear effect. This advance tests theoretical models that describe how nuclear and atomic realms interact and may also provide new insights into how star elements are created.

Physicists first predicted the effect, called nuclear excitation by electron capture (NEEC), over 40 years ago. But scientists had not seen it until now. Using the Argonne Tandem Linac Accelerator System (ATLAS), and Gammasphere, a powerful gamma ray spectrometer, the researchers created the right conditions to cause and spot the behavior.

The NEEC effect occurs when a charged atom captures an electron, giving the atom's nucleus enough energy to jump to a higher excited state.

An excited nucleus stays in each energy state for a while before decaying into the state below it, shedding energy in the form of gamma rays. These excited states typically last for much less than a billionth of a second, but in some rare cases, they can live far longer, even for millions of times the age of the universe.

The longer-lived energy states are called isomers, and to observe the NEEC effect, the researchers produced an isomer with a half-life of about seven hours. In other words, after seven hours of existing in the isomeric energy level, about half of the nuclei of this type will decay.

The scientists chose to produce this nucleus, called 93Mo, an isotope of molybdenum, because of its unique arrangement of energy levels. "There is an allowed energy level not far above the isomer state," said the Army Research Laboratory's Chris Chiara, the study's lead scientist. "Under normal circumstances, the isomer will decay naturally after about seven hours, but if NEEC occurs, the nucleus is excited out of the isomer to the slightly higher state. That state then quickly decays to a state below the isomer, emitting gamma rays that have distinct energies that we can look for."

Argonne scientists and collaborators used the Argonne Tandem Linac Accelerator System to help create the right conditions to cause and spot a long-theorized effect called nuclear excitation by electron capture. Credit: Argonne National Laboratory

To make 93Mo, the researchers used ATLAS, a DOE Office of Science User Facility, to accelerate a beam of ions towards the atoms in a target foil where the nuclei of the two fused together. These reactions formed 93Mo in a highly excited state at the center of Gammasphere, which waited to detect evidence of the effect in the form of gamma rays.

As the 93Mo atoms move through the target material, they bump into atoms that slow them down and strip them of electrons, putting them in a high-charge state. Electrons from the target atoms then fill those vacancies in the 93Mo, and if the electrons have the right energy before the capture, they may excite the nucleus into the next highest state. When this state decays, the nucleus releases a gamma ray that can be traced back to the NEEC reaction.

The target, made by ATLAS's in-house target maker, John Greene, played a crucial role in the detection of NEEC. Greene was able to work on the fly, tweaking the target as the scientists learned more about the 93Mo nucleus. With everything in place, the team began to gather data.

"We detected gamma rays from these reactions over the course of the three-day experiment, and we accumulated around eight billion events in total," said Mike Carpenter, a group leader at Argonne in charge of Gammasphere. "From these events, we were able to identify around 500 gamma rays that were emitted during the decay of 93Mo that wouldn't have been released if it weren't for NEEC."

The power and sensitivity of Gammasphere was vital to the experiment's success. "We made use of a new digital Gammasphere mode, which allowed us to run at a rate about five times higher than would have been possible with the older analog system," said Chiara. But it was not only the hardware at ATLAS that was important. "As experts in the field of gamma-ray spectroscopy, the Argonne staff provided invaluable scientific and technical support," he added.

The team's success may lead to advances in astronomy and cosmology as it could improve the accuracy of models scientists use to gauge how stars form. The quantities of elements in a star depend largely on the structure and behavior of nuclei. Over long periods, and with vast numbers of atoms interacting, the survivalor destructionof specific isomers can have a cumulative influence. Taking the NEEC effect into account could improve our understanding of what stars are made of and how they evolve.

Scientists at the Army Research Laboratory are also interested in possible future applications for the controlled release of nuclear energy from isomers via the NEEC effect. If scientists and engineers could harness this energy, it might help develop power sources with 100,000 times greater energy per unit mass than chemical batteries.

The results of the experiment were published in a paper titled "Isomer depletion as experimental evidence of nuclear excitation by electron capture," on February 8 in Nature.

Explore further Researchers move closer to switching nuclear isomer decay on and off

More information: C. J. Chiara et al, Isomer depletion as experimental evidence of nuclear excitation by electron capture, Nature (2018). Journal information: Nature C. J. Chiara et al, Isomer depletion as experimental evidence of nuclear excitation by electron capture,(2018). DOI: 10.1038/nature25483A view inside the dome at the Mayall Telescope near Tucson, Arizona. The 2-meter corrector barrel atop the telescope will be removed and replaced with a new corrector barrel for the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument. DESI's installation will begin soon. Credit: P. Marenfeld and NOAO/AURA/NSF

Forty-five years ago this month, a telescope tucked inside a 14-story, 500-ton dome atop a mile-high peak in Arizona took in the night sky for the first time and recorded its observations in glass photographic plates.

Today, the dome closes on the previous science chapters of the 4-meter Nicholas U. Mayall Telescope so that it can prepare for its new role in creating the largest 3-D map of the universe. This map could help to solve the mystery of dark energy, which is driving the accelerating expansion of the universe.

The temporary closure sets in motion the largest overhaul in the telescope's history and sets the stage for the installation of the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), which will begin a five-year observing run next year at the National Science Foundation's Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO) - part of the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO).

"This day marks an enormous milestone for us," said DESI Director Michael Levi of the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab), which is leading the project's international collaboration. "Now we remove the old equipment and start the yearlong process of putting the new stuff on." More than 465 researchers from about 71 institutions are participating in the DESI collaboration.

The entire top end of the telescope, which weighs as much as a school bus and houses the telescope's secondary mirror and a large digital camera, will be removed and replaced with DESI instruments. A large crane will lift the telescope's top end through the observing slit in its dome.

Besides providing new insights about the universe's expansion and large-scale structure, DESI will also help to set limits on theories related to gravity and the formative stages of the universe, and could even provide new mass measurements for a variety of elusive yet abundant subatomic particles called neutrinos.

"One of the primary ways that we learn about the unseen universe is by its subtle effects on the clustering of galaxies," said DESI Collaboration Co-Spokesperson Daniel Eisenstein of Harvard University. "The new maps from DESI will provide an exquisite new level of sensitivity in our study of cosmology."

The Mayall Telescope has played an important role in many astronomical discoveries, including measurements supporting the discovery of dark energy and establishing the role of dark matter in the universe from measurements of galaxy rotation. Its observations have also been used in determining the scale and structure of the universe. Dark matter and dark energy together are believed to make up about 95 percent of all of the universe's mass and energy.

It was one of the world's largest optical telescopes at the time it was built, and because of its sturdy construction it is perfectly suited to carry the new 9-ton instrument.

"We started this project by surveying large telescopes to find one that had a suitable mirror and wouldn't collapse under the weight of such a massive instrument," said Berkeley Lab's David Schlegel, a DESI project scientist.

Arjun Dey, the NOAO project scientist for DESI, explained, "The Mayall was precociously engineered like a battleship and designed with a wide field of view."

The expansion of the telescope's field-of-view will allow DESI to map out about one-third of the sky.

Brenna Flaugher, a DESI project scientist who leads the Astrophysics Department at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, said DESI will transform the speed of science at the Mayall Telescope.

"The telescope was designed to carry a person at the top who aimed and steered it, but with DESI it's all automated," she said. "Instead of one at a time we can measure the velocities of 5,000 galaxies at a time - we will measure more than 30 million of them in our five-year survey."

DESI will use an array of 5,000 swiveling robots, each carefully choreographed to point a fiber-optic cable at a preprogrammed sequence of deep-space objects, including millions of galaxies and quasars, which are galaxies that harbor massive, actively feeding black holes.

The fiber-optic cables will carry the light from these objects to 10 spectrographs, which are tools that will measure the properties of this light and help to pinpoint the objects' distance and the rate at which they are moving away from us. DESI's observations will provide a deep look into the early universe, up to about 11 billion years ago.

The cylindrical, fiber-toting robots, which will be embedded in a rounded metal unit called a focal plane, will reposition to capture a new exposure of the sky roughly every 20 minutes. The focal plane, which is now being assembled at Berkeley Lab, is expected to be completed and delivered to Kitt Peak this year.

DESI will scan one-third of the sky and will capture about 10 times more data than a predecessor survey, the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS). That project relied on a manually rotated sequence of metal plates - with fibers plugged by hand into pre-drilled holes - to target objects.

The first of 10 wedge-shaped petals for the DESI project is fully stocked with 500 slender robotic positioners. These positioners will each swivel independently to gather light from a preprogrammed sequence of space objects, including galaxies and quasars. The petals will fit snugly together to form DESIs focal plane, which will be composed of about 600,000 individual parts. Credit: DESI Collaboration

All of DESI's six lenses, each about a meter in diameter, are complete. They will be carefully stacked and aligned in a steel support structure and will ultimately ride with the focal plane atop the telescope.

Each of these lenses took shape from large blocks of glass. They have criss-crossed the globe to receive various treatments, including grinding, polishing, and coatings. It took about 3.5 years to produce each of the lenses, which now reside at University College London in the U.K. and will be shipped to the DESI site this spring.

The Mayall Telescope has most recently been enlisted in a DESI-supporting sky survey known as the Mayall z-Band Legacy Survey (MzLS), which is one of four sky surveys that DESI will use to preselect its targeted sky objects. That survey wrapped up just days before the Mayall's temporary closure, while the others are ongoing.

Data from these surveys are analyzed at Berkeley Lab's National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC), a DOE Office of Science User Facility. Data from these surveys have been released to the public at legacysurvey.org.

"We can see about a billion galaxies in the survey images, which is quite a bit of fun to explore," Schlegel said. "The DESI instrument will precisely measure millions of those galaxies to see the effects of dark energy."

Levi noted that there is already a lot of computing work underway at NERSC to prepare for the stream of data that will pour out of DESI once it starts up.

"This project is all about generating huge quantities of data," Levi said. "The data will go directly from the telescope to NERSC for processing. We will create hundreds of universes in these computers and see which universe best fits our data."

Installation of DESI's components is expected to begin soon and to wrap up in April 2019, with first science observations planned in September 2019.

"Installing DESI on the Mayall will put the telescope at the heart of the next decade of discoveries in cosmology," said Risa Wechsler, DESI Collaboration Co-Spokesperson and associate professor of physics and astrophysics at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and Stanford University. "The amazing 3-D map it will measure may solve some of the biggest outstanding questions in cosmology, or surprise us and bring up new ones."Pacific island countries like Palau face threats from rising sea levels. Biologist Larry Crowder edited a collection of papers exploring how these nations can develop policies to protect themselves. Credit: Kurt Hickman

Nations and territories on small islands in the Pacific Ocean are likely to be some of the most drastically affected by global climate change. That's because these communities depend heavily on nearshore, small-scale catches of fish, crustaceans and other marine populations that are likely to be disrupted by changing ocean temperatures and loss of coral reefs. These fisheries are also pillars of cultural and economic independence in impoverished and marginalized areas.

Pacific island countries and territories are under pressure to craft and execute flexible policies that will help them respond to this uncertain future. Larry Crowder is a professor of biology and one of the researchers helping to guide those policies. He recently curated papers in a special issue of the journal Marine Policy focused on the sustainability and management of small-scale fisheries in these regions. Elena Finkbeiner, a social scientist and research fellow at the Center for Ocean Solutions, is an author of one of the papers in the issue.

Finkbeiner and Crowder, who is also the Edward Ricketts Provostial Professor, talked with Stanford News about what this special issue can tell us about the future of fishing and life on Pacific islands.

Why was this collection of papers needed?

Crowder: The purpose of this special issue was, almost for the first time, to specifically look at the possible climate change issues facing small fisheries and make them more resilient.

We've done most of our research in industrial fisheries. But if you look at the people around the globe who work in fisheries, over 90 percent of them work in small-scale fisheries. And if you look at what the small-scale fishermen produce in terms of fish, they produce half the fish that goes to direct consumption by humans.

They employ a lot of people, they provide critical food around the world, and they are highly vulnerable to climate change because a lot of those fisheries have limited technological capacity. If the climate changes, that could drive a shift in the distribution of their target species, and it's much more difficult for them to move than it would be for a big industrial boat that can go fish virtually anywhere.

What special challenges face small-scale fisheries in the Pacific islands?

Crowder: There's more on the line for small-scale fisheries because people's livelihoods and incomes and lifestyles are closely linked to the resources, and they can't just sell out and go open a bowling alley.

We're raising an issue that doesn't seem to have gotten a lot of attention but will be particularly important, largely because of the limitations of these human populations to pick up and move as the populations of fish that they rely on pick up and move. If people are fishing along a 20-kilometer stretch of beach, what they're going to have access to over the next 50 years is going to change pretty dramatically.

In the Pacific islands they're really aware of the words "climate change" because a lot of the fisheries are coral reef dependent. They've seen coral bleaching events; in the low-lying islands there are people considering the exit strategy for their whole country as sea level rises. They're looking for land in New Zealand to evacuate their country to.

Finkbeiner: Climate change is tricky because it creates these interacting stressors on coastal communities. You'll have sea level rise at the same time that you have migration of fish out of the tropics and toward the poles. You might also have more variable storms with increasing intensity and frequency. These stressors accumulate as a result of climate change, but a lot of the time policies that are meant to address these stressors only address one at a time. And because climate change is also interacting with other processes like poverty, coastal development and food insecurity, with narrowly focused policies you run the risk of alienating the most vulnerable communities.

What conclusions do you hope that people draw from these papers?

Crowder: For managers, it's raising their awareness that this is happening. Some of the traditional management techniques we have used for static fish populations may not be effective when the populations are more dynamic. A lot of the changes we've made over the last 50 years may have been reducing flexibility for fishermen: Management has pushed fisheries to specialize more, which might not be a good strategy in the long term.

For public policy makers, I hope that we get them ready to be thinking about climate change and whether the policies they're putting together are flexible and adaptable enough to manage under climate change, and whether they need to reconsider some decisions they have made.

Finkbeiner: Coastal access is really important for Pacific island communities like Hawaii, for example, in terms of their cultural way of life, but also for food security and livelihood.

In Hawaii, if you choose to harden shorelines with seawalls to protect tourism infrastructure from sea level rise, at the same time you run the risk of undermining access of local native Hawaiians to the marine environment.

We have to encourage explicit attention to these types of trade-offs that can be generated by climate change response and policy, in order to empower and protect very vulnerable communities and people.

Explore further Aid for oceans and fisheries in developing world drops by 30 percentThe Guggenheim Museum, designed by star architect Frank Gehry, led to an economic boom in the Spanish city of Bilbao. This "Bilbao Effect" is appealing to many urban planners and politicians who look to better position their cities in economic and social terms by building exceptional architectural projects. Researchers at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have studied three projects to investigate whether or not the desired effects materialize.

Can star architecture have a positive impact on the future of a city? The Guggenheim Museum made it possible for the city of Bilbao to reinvent itself. The Spanish industrial city was experiencing economic decline. After the opening of the museum, the city was able to reposition itself economically, transforming itself into a cultural metropolis.

Many cities are hoping to reap similar benefits by means of high-profile architecture. "The impact of these architectural projects on small and medium-sized cities in particular remains under-investigated," explains Prof. Alain Thierstein of the TUM Chair for Urban Development. A team comprising members from the Chair, HafenCity University Hamburg and the Technische Universitat Berlin examined three case studies: the Kunsthaus Graz, the culture and convention center Luzern (KKL) and the Phno Science Center in Wolfsburg. Since these structures have already existed for over 15 years, observation of long-term effects is also possible.

Positive effects, but no repositioning

The scientists analyzed the interaction of economic factors, the design of the buildings, and their socio-cultural effects. They determined that although the projects have positive economic effects, for example expansion of tourism and cultural programs, these effects do not result in a clearly evident repositioning.

A causal relationship between the economic effects of the projects and the socio-economic changes, for example, in the labor market or in terms of tourism, could not be identified. Furthermore, not all economic effects are immediately visible, says Dr. Nadia Alaily-Mattar, project manager and research associate at the TUM Chair for Urban Development. "In Wolfsburg, the realization of Phno led to an increase in the self-confidence of the politicians and local administrative authorities." This social effect may also have positive economic effects on the city in the long term.

Architecture should not be overlooked

In all three cases, the researchers observed a shift in the spatial relationships of the city. In Graz, the Kunsthaus forms a bridge linking urban districts previously perceived as separate and evaluated differently in social terms. In Lucerne, the KKL has strengthened the convergence of countryside and city. The Phno had a similar impact on Wolfsburg: The area across from the city's main train station was of significant importance for the city, but was underutilized. The Phno integrated this area into the rest of the city.

These structural changes are the most sustainable effects of the projects, Alaily-Mattar says, adding that economic and socio-cultural effects can often be temporary and ephemeral. "Morphological effects are usually more stable and less dependent on the 'star factor.' The desire on the part of urban planners and politicians to achieve certain impacts by means of star architecture must not overlook the contribution made by the architecture itself. In addition to economic and socio-cultural effects, the influence of star architecture on the city is spatial as well."

Explore further Are both the economic development and spatial impacts of High Speed Rail worth it?

More information: Nadia Alaily-Mattar et al, Repositioning cities through star architecture: how does it work?, Journal of Urban Design (2017). Nadia Alaily-Mattar et al, Repositioning cities through star architecture: how does it work?,(2017). DOI: 10.1080/13574809.2017.1408401The remains of a church after hurricane-driven floods and debris flows at Castle Comfort, Dominica. Credit: Richard Teeuw

The biggest natural disaster to ever hit the Caribbean island of Dominica is now likely to provide guidelines for reducing the risk globally of disaster from hurricanes.

Scientists led by disaster expert Dr. Richard Teeuw, of the University of Portsmouth, are surveying the damage to Dominica's landscape, infrastructure and communities following the destruction caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017.

Dominica was devastated by the hurricane last September which left 68 people dead or missing. The hurricane registered as Category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale, with maximum wind speeds of 260 km/h.

The results of the surveys will provide guidelines for reducing vulnerability and exposure to hurricane-driven floods.

Global warming is expected to bring a steady rise in the number of hurricanes and an increase in their intensity.

The scientists are calling for urgent climate change adaptation strategies, particularly in small island developing states with limited financial resources.

Dr. Teeuw said: "It's vital we better understand the strengths and vulnerabilities of the built environment, especially critical pieces of infrastructure, and examine ways of increasing the resilience of affected communities. All the evidence points towards global warming bringing a greater number of the largest (Category 5) hurricanes.

The remains of a concrete house destroyed by large trees and boulders during the hurricane-driven floods, Point Michel, Dominica, where the most fatalities were recorded. Credit: Richard Teeuw

"The destruction hurricanes bring isn't just caused by extreme winds, they also bring high amounts of rain which then cause soil erosion and flood, with boulders and fallen trees and floods forming destructive debris flows  entire houses have been swept away, even some with reinforced concrete walls."

Dr. Teeuw and colleagues from the University of Portsmouth's School of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Department of Geography, as well as geologists from University College London and civil engineers from Brunel University, were awarded 64,000 for the six-month survey by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).

The project involves a multi-disciplinary team of geoscientists, engineers and community resilience specialists, with drones capturing photographs of survey sites.

Working alongside the damage survey team, Dr. Carmen Solana of the University of Portsmouth and an expert in communicating the risk of damage from natural disasters, is studying the coping strategies and resilience of hurricane-hit communities.

The hurricane destroyed the roofs of 98 per cent of the buildings and the structural frames of half of the island's houses. In the immediate aftermath, electricity was cut and communications were down, many bridges were damaged and water supplies were disrupted by erosion and breakage of pipes. In terms of structural engineering, the hurricane's effects on the built environment are among the worst reported ever worldwide from hurricanes.

Drone pilot Toby Meredith (right) and his spotter, Paul Weber, during the aerial photography surveys of one of the sites destroyed by the hurricane debris flows. Credit: Richard Teeuw

The field survey will document the geomorphological processes and their interactions, as well as damage to the built environment resulting from those processes in order to investigate damage mechanisms and building fragilities. The findings are likely to be very useful for Dominica's plans to "Build back better."

Survey target areas were selected after post-hurricane damage mapping, carried out using remotely sensed imagery from aircraft and Earth observation satellites, via volunteer crowdsource 'mapathon' events in the Caribbean and at the University of Portsmouth.Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics can perform an increasingly wider variety of jobs, and automation is no longer confined to routine tasks. Nevertheless, the automation potential for non-routine tasks seems to remain limited, especially for tasks involving autonomous mobility, creativity, problem solving, and complex communication.

The new report The Substitution of Labor: From technological feasibility to other factors influencing job automation is the fifth report from the three-year research project, The Internet and its Direct and Indirect Effects on Innovation and the Swedish Economy under the leadership of Professor Robin Teigland.

The report examines the possibility of a number of technologies to replace labor.

Some of the key findings from the report include the following:

A majority of jobs will be affected by the automation of individual activities, but only a few have the potential to be completely substituted.

The nature of jobs will change as routine tasks will be replaced and people will work more closely together with machines.

Industries that have a large potential for job substitution are food and accommodation services, transportation and warehousing, retail trade, wholesale trade, and manufacturing.

The project, "The Internet and its Direct and Indirect Effects on Innovation and the Swedish Economy," is funded by The Internet Foundation in Sweden (Internetstiftelsen i Sverige, IIS). The project previously published the report, Chasing the Tale of the Unicorn  A study of Stockholm's misty meadows, which investigated the roots of the current "unicorn" success in Sweden and its capital city of Stockholm. In 2018, the project will also publish the book, The Rise and Development of FinTech: Accounts of disruption from Sweden and beyond, through Routledge Publishing. The project is currently working on a new book project with the tentative title: The Digital Disruption of Public Services: An investigative study of the societal impact in Sweden and beyond, with an expected publication date in early 2019.

Explore further Report examines automation waves that threaten upward mobility

More information: The report is available online: The report is available online: www.hhs.se/en/about-us/news/20  by-new-technologies/

Provided by Handelshogskolan i StockholmA worker in East Kalimantan, Indonesia, loads palm fruit into a truck for transport to a factory that will process it into palm oil -- an ingredient in a wide range of consumer products. Credit: Joann de Zegher / Stanford University

You want chocolate. You scan the market shelf for a bar with a Fair Trade or Rainforest Alliance certification because you don't want your indulgence to drive labor abuse and deforestation. It's the right thing to do, right?

But buying ethically sourced products is not as straightforward as it might seem, according to Stanford researchers who undertook the first large-scale analysis of sustainable sourcing practices. While more than half of the global companies surveyed apply sustainability practices somewhere in their supply chain, according to the study, these efforts tend to have a much more limited reach than consumers might imagine given media attention to the issue and the proliferation of sustainable product labeling.

"Our results show a glass half full and half empty," said study coauthor Eric Lambin, the George and Setsuko Ishiyama Provostial Professor in Stanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences.

The paper, published Feb. 12 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, relates sourcing practices to the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, an agenda for a sustainable global economy. With global supply chains touching more than 80 percent of global trade and employing more than one in five workers, corporate supply chains have the potential to play an outsized role in achieving the U.N. goals.

The researchers analyzed 449 publicly listed companies in the food, textile and wood-products sectors, and found about half use some form of sustainable sourcing practice ranging from third-party certification of production standards to environmental training for suppliers. Among their findings:

More than 70 percent of sustainable sourcing practices cover only a subset of input materials for a given product. For example, a company might use recycled materials for the packaging of a product, but leave the remainder of a product's upstream impact unaddressed.

Only 15 percent of sustainable sourcing practices focus on health, energy, infrastructure, climate change, education, gender or poverty.

Almost all sustainable sourcing practices address only a single tier in the supply chain, usually first-tier suppliers, such as the textile factories that sew T-shirts. Often, the remaining processes, from dying the cloth to growing the cotton, remain unaddressed.

More than a quarter of sustainable sourcing practices apply to only a single product line. For example, a company may use Fair Trade certification for only one type of chocolate bar among many that it sells.

"Advancing environmental and social goals in supply chains can quickly become very complex," said study co-author Joann de Zegher, a postdoctoral fellow at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. "This complexity is reflected in our findings that companies use a broad range of strategies and that current efforts have limited reach."

On a hopeful note, the researchers find that companies on the receiving end of consumer and civil society pressure are "significantly more likely" to adopt at least one sustainable sourcing practice. So, perhaps unsurprisingly, companies headquartered in countries with many active nongovernmental organizations are more likely to use sustainable sourcing practices, according to the study.

"The pressure consumers put on firms when they demand more sustainable products might be paying off," said study lead author Tannis Thorlakson, a graduate student in the Emmett Interdisciplinary Program in Environment and Resources of Stanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences. "I hope this paper acts as a call to action for those 48 percent of companies that aren't doing anything to address sustainability challenges in their supply chain."Atmospheric methane concentrations continue to increase globally, despite a pledge in 2016 from the leaders of the United States, Canada, and Mexico to reduce methane emissions from each country's oil and gas sector. Additionally, the trilateral methane pledge faces more challenges as the Trump Administration seeks to reverse federal methane research and control efforts.

Yet this ambitious pledge is still achievable in the United States, according to a new article in Climate Policy co-authored by Dr. Sarah Marie Jordaan, Assistant Professor of Energy, Resources and Environment at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), and Kate Konschnik, lead author and Director of the Climate and Energy Program at Duke University's Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions.

The researchers suggest that estimating emissions consistently across U.S. jurisdictions in support of a robust baseline will help the North American countries to achieve the goal by 2025, if coupled with science-based, economically sound policies to minimize methane leakage.

"It is criticalfor both the development of the sector and the environmentthat decision-makers in government and industry rely not only on politics and economics, but also scientific evidence," Dr. Jordaan said. "We have developed a coherent framework that integrates science and policy to help decision-makers to do just that, in support of both economic and environmental goals."

Konschnik noted that the climate benefits of using natural gas rather than coal to generate electricity evaporate if methane leakage across the natural gas value chain is too high. "Agencies and industry can tackle methane emissions more effectively by monitoring technological advances in this field, and generating data for future research," she said.

The scholars surveyed efforts to estimate and mitigate methane emissions in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. They propose a North American Methane Reduction Framework to integrate public and private research and mitigation policies.

Explore further Little growth observed in India's methane emissions

More information: "Reducing Fugitive Methane Emissions from the North American Oil and Gas Sector: Proposing a Science-Policy Framework," Climate Policy DOI: 10.1080/14693062.2018.1427538 "Reducing Fugitive Methane Emissions from the North American Oil and Gas Sector: Proposing a Science-Policy Framework,"The English Lake District, made a UNESCO World Heritage Site last year. Credit: Lancaster University

Real-time information from environmental monitors and sensors could soon inform rangers of the conditions of footpaths and monitor the effects of climate change. Bins could send alerts when they are full to reduce unnecessary emissions due to bin collections. Your phone could sense when you tire during a walk, notifying you of the nearest pub for a rest stop. It could even send you the menu, or make a reservation on your behalf.

These are all examples of smart technologies in use across the world that are quickly changing the face of cities and open spaces, shaping new types of experiences. Now, experts suggest innovation and the 'Internet of Things' could be the key to better protecting the world's National Park landscape while reducing costs and enhancing visitors' experience.

Professor Edward Truch, a Director of the Connected Communities Research Lab at Lancaster University Management School, is the lead author of the Smart Parks: Bringing smart technologies to National Parks report, commissioned by the Lake District National Park Authority. He said: "National Parks are under increasing pressure to deliver more for less and with population booms, visitor numbers are increasing - putting greater strain on the natural environment. This report sets out business models and revenue streams for National Parks right across the world to consider, that can help address the gaps in budgets caused by cuts in public sector spending. The Smart Park model demonstrates how a high degree of connectivity and exchange of information can benefit all - from nature conservationists, tourists, businesses and communities, through to park authorities and emergency services. A Smart Park could open up opportunities for new types of visitor attractions, which protect rather than spoil some of the world's most treasured landscapes.

"Visitors are already making use of intelligent connected devices through apps like Google, Ordinance Survey and Booking.com for things like navigation and accommodation bookings. Some areas of the world are already drastically cutting traffic pollution by introducing 'smart' car parking systems, for example, directing individual motorists to available car parking spaces.

The report calls for National Parks around the world to introduce technology and the Internet of things to better protect landscape, plug funding gaps from decreasing budgets and keep pace with future visitor expectations. Credit: Lancaster University

"Research suggests there will be exponential growth in the number of worldwide devices connected to the internet over coming years, growing from 4.9bn in 2015 to around 25bn in 2025. National Parks need to act now and seriously consider these innovative technologies to better protect the environment and keep pace with future visitor expectations."

The new vision of a 'Smart Park', or a national or urban park enhanced by the effective use of the Internet of Things, identifies potential solutions for the main challenge vast, rural national parks currently face - efficient and reliable internet connectivity. New and emerging networks are offered as solutions to the problem, such as cognitive radio technology which is considered to be the next frontier in wireless communications. The report suggests developing technology with built-in intelligence and agility to adapt to the environment it is operating in, can offer 'greener' more sustainable options for natural spaces - optimising transmissions to preserve power.

Lake District National Park's Head of Strategy and Partnerships, Liam McAleese, said: "This collaboration between the Lake District National Park Partnership and Lancaster University Connected Communities Research Lab creates an opportunity for us to explore innovative technology that may one day benefit our communities and enhance the experience for the millions of visitors who enjoy the Park every year. Smart Parks is a fascinating piece research and it has presented us with a broad range of options to consider for the future of the National Park."

Chris Mahon, Chief Executive of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Committee UK and Development Director of World Heritage UK said: "The report offers a very new look at how designated natural areas and other green spaces, and the people that visit them, can benefit from the latest innovations in modern technology. It's about new ways of delivering conservation as well as visitor convenience and experience enhancement. Commissioned by the same organisation responsible for the successful 2017 inscription of the UK's most recent UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 'English Lake District', this study will be of considerable interest to many people, including members of the UNESCO and IUCN networks, involved in land and people management."

Explore further Visitor patterns and emerging activities in national parks revealed by social media posts

More information: The full report is available here: The full report is available here: www.connected.community/smart-parkCredit: University of Reading

Ocean food resources are most volatile in areas which hold most of the world's marine resources, like fish, a new study has revealed.

The University of Reading study provides the first ever estimate of the nutritional value of phytoplankton  organisms at the base of food chain that allows ocean ecosystems to thrive  across the world's oceans throughout the year. These estimates can be made using only satellite images.

Published in the ISME Journal, the research shows that the most significant spatial and seasonal contrast in the nutritional value of phytoplankton is seen in coastal areas, represented by 22 coastal provinces, such as the North-East Atlantic Coastal Shelves and the South China Sea. Coastal areas collectively provide the majority of the world's marine economic resources including commercial fish stocks.

Dr. Shovonlal Roy, the environmental scientist who carried out the study, said: "Good quality food in sufficient quantities is essential for the sustainability of ecosystems, and phytoplankton provides the base of the ocean's food chains. The dramatic spatial and seasonal variation we see in the nutritional value of phytoplankton in coastal areas may make them vulnerable to any future environmental changes, such as global warming."

A feature of the new study is that the phytoplankton energy value was calculated using satellite images. Taken by the European Space Agency between 1997 and 2013, the images indicate where blooms of chlorophyll-containing phytoplankton are, as the colour of the ocean is altered by the light absorption.

Previous studies have shown that the size of phytoplankton cells determines how rich they are in carbohydrates, proteins and fatty acids. Dr. Roy looked at cell sizes in hundreds of phytoplankton samples, collected by oceanographic cruises from regions across the world, which allowed an estimate to be made using the satellite images.

The study found that the nutritional value of phytoplankton strongly differed depending on its type, location and time of the year. It suggests that this value is at its highest in September and lowest in June.

Dr. Roy's estimations identify that the highest annually-averaged surface concentrations of nutrients are over the North-East Atlantic Coastal Shelves, whereas, the lowest concentrations were seen in the North Atlantic Tropical Gyral and in North Pacific Subtropical Gyre West.

Other factors that produce changes in ocean colour, such as cloud or ice cover, atmospheric particles or other organic matter could cause potential inaccuracies in the estimates. However, the method can be improved by collecting more phytoplankton samples to validate the estimates at local sites, and increasing the resolution of satellite images.

Dr. Roy said: "It should now be a priority to obtain more measurements to allow us to test the accuracy of our predictions, as this will offer hugely important information on the sustainability of the world's marine ecosystems."

Explore further Robots aid better understanding of phytoplankton blooms

More information: Shovonlal Roy. Distributions of phytoplankton carbohydrate, protein and lipid in the world oceans from satellite ocean colour, The ISME Journal (2018). Journal information: ISME Journal Shovonlal Roy. Distributions of phytoplankton carbohydrate, protein and lipid in the world oceans from satellite ocean colour,(2018). DOI: 10.1038/s41396-018-0054-8Credit: ESO/M. Kornmesser

The first discovered interstellar visitor to our solar system has had a violent past, which is causing it to tumble around chaotically, a Queen's University Belfast scientist has discovered.

'Oumuamua flew through our solar system in October and was originally thought to be a comet, then it was later revealed as a cucumber-shaped asteroid.

Since October, Dr. Wes Fraser, alongside Dr. Pedro Lacerda, Dr. Michele Bannister, and Professor Alan Fitzsimmons, all from Queen's University Belfast's School of Mathematics and Physics, have been analysing the brightness measurements of the object. They have been working with an international team, including Dr. Petr Pravec from the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Dr. Colin Snodgrass from The Open University and Igor Smolic from the University of Belgrade.

Straight away, they discovered that 'Oumuamua wasn't spinning periodically like most of the small asteroids and bodies that we see in our solar system. Instead, it is tumbling, or spinning chaotically, and could have been for many billions of years.

While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact reason for this, it is thought that 'Oumuamua impacted with another asteroid before it was fiercely thrown out of its system and into interstellar space.

Dr. Fraser explains: "Our modeling of this body suggests the tumbling will last for many billions of years to hundreds of billions of years before internal stresses cause it to rotate normally again.

"While we don't know the cause of the tumbling, we predict that it was most likely sent tumbling by an impact with another planetesimal in its system, before it was ejected into interstellar space."

Until now, scientists had been puzzled that 'Oumuamua's colour varied between measurements. However, Dr. Fraser's research has now revealed that its surface is spotty and that when the long face of the cucumber-shaped object was facing telescopes on Earth it was largely red but the rest of the body was neutral coloured, like dirty snow.

Dr. Fraser explains: "Most of the surface reflects neutrally but one of its long faces has a large red region. This argues for broad compositional variations, which is unusual for such a small body."

The research findings, which have been published in Nature Astronomy, have helped to build a more accurate profile of 'Oumuamua.

"We now know that beyond its unusual elongated shape, this space cucumber had origins around another star, has had a violent past, and tumbles chaotically because of it. Our results are really helping to paint a more complete picture of this strange interstellar interloper. It is quite unusual compared to most asteroids and comets we see in our own solar system," comments Dr. Fraser.

Since 'Oumuamua was spotted in October, a team of researchers at Queen's University Belfast have been analysing the object in detail. This is the third paper to be published by their team, which includes Ph.D. students Meabh Hyland and Thomas Seccull. Dr. Wes Fraser, Dr. Michele Bannister, Dr. Pedro Lacerda and Professor Alan Fitzsimmons have been supported by funding from the Science and Technology Facilities Council for their research.

Explore further Alien object 'Oumuama was a natural body visiting from another solar system

More information: Wesley C. Fraser et al. The tumbling rotational state of 1I/'Oumuamua, Nature Astronomy (2018). Journal information: Nature Astronomy Wesley C. Fraser et al. The tumbling rotational state of 1I/'Oumuamua,(2018). DOI: 10.1038/s41550-018-0398-zAndrei Ivanov, Associate Professor of the Solid-State Physics and Nanosystems Department at MEPhI. Credit: MEPhI

Scientists from the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering Physics Institute), working in cooperation with researchers from the Russian Academy of Sciences, have proposed new materials in which the bipolar effect of resistive switchings (BERS) can be realized. Significantly, these materials could serve as the basis for developing a computer based on memristors that can store and process data in a way similar to human brain neurons. The results of the research were published in Materials Letters.

The BERS phenomenon is a popular area of research in the fundamental and the applied sciences. It can be used for developing nonvolatile two-terminal memory cells, as well as for memristors, the fourth fundamental element in electronics. Memristors could serve as the basis for a new approach to data processing, so-called membrane computing.

Membrane computing is a new method of data processing in which short-term (RAM) and long-term (ROM) memory are operated by elements similar to neurons in the human brain. The effect of resistive switching occurs when an external electric field changes a material's conductivity by several degrees, thereby realizing metastable high-resistive and low-resistive conditions. If the nature of the switching depends on the direction of the electric field, the effect is called bipolar.

The physical mechanism of the switching itself depends on the material type. This may include the forming of conductive channels via the migration of metal ions, the forming of Schottky barriers, metalinsulator phase transitions, and other processes.

MEPhI is currently searching for new materials that can demonstrate BERS. Earlier, researchers found that BERS can be observed in systems with a strong electron correlation, e.g., materials with high magnetoresistance and high-temperature superconductors.

Eventually, the scientists decided in favor of epitaxial fields that form on the surface of a single-crystalline substrate of strontium titanate (epitaxy is a regular and organized growth of one crystalline substance on another). The researchers proved that these fields can be used to create memristors for a new generation of computers.

"The innovation in this research is in applying the lithography which allows developing the technology for miniaturization of resistive memory elements," said Andrei Ivanov, associate professor of the Solid-State Physics and Nanosystems Department at MEPhI.

Explore further Team takes a deep look at memristors

More information: N.A. Tulina et al. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies of electronic structure of Nd 2x Ce x CuO 4y and YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7y epitaxial film surfaces and resistive switchings in high temperature superconductor-based heterostructures, Materials Letters (2017). Journal information: Materials Letters N.A. Tulina et al. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies of electronic structure of Nd 2x Ce x CuO 4y and YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7y epitaxial film surfaces and resistive switchings in high temperature superconductor-based heterostructures,(2017). DOI: 10.1016/j.matlet.2017.05.091The lateral formations of the species Biconcavus batmani resemble the mask of Batman. Credit: Blanca Figuerola, UB-IRBio

A scientific team has discovered 20 new species and two genera for unknown Bryozoa below 1000 meters in the Southwestern Atlantic, according to an article published in the journal Zootaxa by first author Blanca Figuerola from the University of Barcelona and collaborators.

Bryozoa are aquatic and colonial invertebrates that can produce mineralized skeletons. This is the largest identification of new bryozoan species below 1000 meters, the continental slope of the Argentine Patagonia, an area where most identified species had previously been found above 500 meters. The new species were collected during five oceanographic campaigns from 2008 to 2010, involving IEO's ATLANTIS Project on board the research vessel Miguel Oliver. The researchers explored 25 sampling sites between 138 and 1650 meters deep in the Southwestern Atlantic.

This area is one of the most productive marine ecosystems in the Southern Hemisphere due the confluence of two of the most powerful wind-driven currents: the Falkland Current, which is quite rich in nutrients, and the subtropical Brazil Current. In particular, the current of the Malvines is a branch of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which flows northward along the continental shelf of Argentina under 800 or 1000 meters to about latitude 30 to 40 S, where it is deflected eastward after meeting the warm southward-flowing Brazil Current.

When these powerful marine currents converge, there is a high biological production, promoting the growth of benthic invertebrates. "Therefore, this area contains particular species with a wide range of distributions and adaptations to fluctuating conditions, resulting from the influence of these subtropical and subantarctic waters," says Figuerola.

The findings of two genera (Amynaskolia and Biconcavus) and 20 new species add new chapters to the inventory of the regional biodiversity of Bryozoa in the Southwestern Atlantic. "In these areas, studies on the biodiversity of marine invertebrates are needed, mainly at slope and abyssal depths. For now, some of the best-known benthic invertebrates in this region are molluscs, echinoderms and cnidarians," says the researcher.

Some of the species belong to genera from which only two other species were previously knownin particular, the Ipsibuffonella umbonata, Membranicellaria balanyai, and Mawatarius avilae.

Curiously, the new species Biconcavus batmani possesses lateral formations that resemble the mask of Gotham City vigilante Batman. In the case of Malakosaria cecilioi of the Malakosaria genus, each zooid presents two oval excavations and one ascopore resembling a smiling face. All these new specimens were delivered to the Animal Biodiversity Resource Center (CRBA) of the UB.

Studying the biodiversity in the continental slope and the abyssal plain of the Patagonian and Antarctic regions is essential to completing the taxonomy and biogeography of some lineages that inhabit these unique ecosystems. The new findings will also provide perspective on the study of comparative diversity among invertebrate communities from the last separated fragments of Gondwana, the ancient supercontinent. This is, for example, the case of Spigaleos genus and the species Arachnopusia tubula, which were previously reported only from Antarctica; the genera Ipsibufonella, previously known to be only in tropical and subtropical areas, and Mucropetraliella, which was identified in areas outside the Patagonia.

Blanca Figuerola says, "The findings of Arachnopusia tubula, a species that shows a wide bathymetric range, supports our hypothesis on the polar front, which was reported in previous studies. This oceanographic barrier, the limit between the Austral Ocean and its surrounding waters, is not as impermeable as originally thought. Therefore, bryozoan colonies can be attached to drifting natural substrates or marine debris of anthropogenic origin (algae, plastics, etc.), and can spread fast through rafting (moving on floating objects) at a regional or global level."

The discovery of new marine invertebrate species in South America has rapidly increased since the mid-18th century. The new species were found in the area of eastern Patagonia. In other studies, the UB-IRBio researcher and other experts enlarged the catalogue of the benthic fauna in the South Atlantic with the identification of more than 180 bryozoan species.

"Many studies on the biodiversity in the area of the continental slope and abyssal plains are to be done yet. We know some bryozoan genera can incorporate significant amounts of magnesium to their skeletons; therefore, they are more soluble and more susceptible to the oceanic acidification than skeletons containing lower magnesium levels. It will be necessary to carry out studies on the distribution, abundance and mineralogy to assess whether these species are suitable as model organisms to study the effects of climate change in oceans," concludes Blanca Figuerola.

Explore further Antarctic bryozoans give hints of environmental changes in oceans

More information: BLANCA FIGUEROLA et al. New deep Cheilostomata (Bryozoa) species from the Southwestern Atlantic: shedding light in the dark, Zootaxa (2018). Journal information: Zootaxa BLANCA FIGUEROLA et al. New deep Cheilostomata (Bryozoa) species from the Southwestern Atlantic: shedding light in the dark,(2018). DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4375.2.3" " An artist's impression of the seven planets orbiting the TRAPPIST-1 star. The system is located 40 light-years from our planet. ESO/M. Kornmesser

One of the most captivating star systems beyond the solar system is in our galactic backyard. It may be a common red dwarf star, but the exoplanets it possesses are anything but ordinary. In fact, new observations have shown that the alien worlds of TRAPPIST-1 may be very special indeed.

Located 40 light-years from Earth, TRAPPIST-1 is a mini version of our solar system. Orbiting the ultracool red dwarf are at least seven known small exoplanets of Earthlike dimensions, three of which orbit their star in the habitable zone. That's the area around a star at which it's neither too hot nor too cold for liquid water to exist on an exoplanet's surface.

The discovery of any habitable zone exoplanet, particularly small and rocky ones, has implications for the possibility of finding extraterrestrial life. But simply finding worlds orbiting inside a small star's habitable zone doesn't mean those exoplanets are truly habitable. The zone just provides a guide as to where to look. The chemistry for life inside those exoplanetary atmospheres (if they even have atmospheres) need to be studied before an exoplanet can truly be considered to possess life-giving qualities.

Now astronomers have begun that process for the worlds orbiting TRAPPIST-1 and deduced that they may contain water. Lots and lots and lots of water.

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Steam, Liquid and Ice Worlds?

The first TRAPPIST-1 exoplanets were discovered in observations by the TRAPPIST-South telescope at the European Southern Observatory's La Silla site in Chile, in 2016. The ESO's Very Large Telescope (also in Chile) and NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope then pitched in and determined that there were no fewer than seven small exoplanets in the system. The worlds were named TRAPPIST-1b, c, d, e, f, g and h, in increasing distance from the central star. Five of the exoplanets (TRAPPIST-1b, c, e, f and g) are approximately Earth-sized, and two (TRAPPIST-1d and h) are smaller. It's TRAPPIST-1e, f and g that are in the star's habitable zone. The discovery of the seven-exoplanet star system is unprecedented, and the habitable potential of the system captivated the world.

In a TRAPPIST-1 study to be published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics, scientists have taken all the information we know about the fascinating system, run it through computer models and determined the exoplanets' densities to great precision. This means that planetary scientists can take a stab at their compositions and therefore make highly educated guesses about what chemicals are present. They can even gain a clue as to what they look like.

"The TRAPPIST-1 planets are so close together that they interfere with each other gravitationally, so the times when they pass in front of the star shift slightly," said Simon Grimm, in an ESO statement. Grimm works at the University of Bern in Switzerland and led the study. "These shifts depend on the planets' masses, their distances and other orbital parameters. With a computer model, we simulate the planets' orbits until the calculated transits agree with the observed values, and hence derive the planetary masses," he continued.

" " This illustration shows another view of what the planets orbiting TRAPPIST-1 might look like. ESO/M. Kornmesser

When Grimm's team painstakingly put all that together they found that the exoplanets' densities reveal that they are not barren, rocky worlds; instead, large quantities of volatile material are present. Volatile chemicals include water, carbon dioxide, methane and others, but astronomers know from previously observing protoplanetary disks around young stars that the spectroscopic signature of water is dominant. Therefore, the researchers deduce that the volatiles on TRAPPIST-1's worlds will consist mainly of water, lots of it. In some cases, the study estimates that up to 5 percent of the exoplanetary mass consists of water  that's 250 times more water than all the oceans on Earth!

"Densities, while important clues to the planets' compositions, do not say anything about habitability. However, our study is an important step forward as we continue to explore whether these planets could support life," added co-author Brice-Olivier Demory, also of the University of Bern, in the same ESO statement.

Because these Trappist-1 worlds orbit the star at different distances, the water will be in different phases, depending on the world. The innermost (and therefore warmest) exoplanets appear to be rocky and likely have very dense and steamy atmospheres, whereas the outermost worlds will be frozen and covered with a layer of ice. TRAPPIST-1e is considered the most "Earthlike" world in the system, likely possessing a dense iron core, rocky interior and, possibly, a thin atmosphere.

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Exoplanetary Surprises

All these density calculations have provided a few surprising insights. For example, the densest planets in the Trappist-1 system aren't the ones closest to the star. In addition, the colder planets don't seem to be able to possess thick atmospheres.

Both of those observations came from co-author Caroline Dorn, who works at the University of Zurich, Switzerland.

While these findings are compelling, other observations using the Hubble Space Telescope have failed to detect the presence of hydrogen in the TRAPPIST-1 exoplanetary atmospheres. Detecting hydrogen would add evidence for the presence of water. So, it seems we'll have to wait for the next generation of observatories, such as NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, that will be powerful enough to detect the telltale signs of water.

And even if TRAPPIST-1 has all the ingredients for bona fide habitable exoplanets, the nature of red dwarf star systems is very different from our solar system. Since red dwarf habitable zones are closer to their stars, any habitable zone exoplanets will be exposed to increased levels of radiation. Unless those worlds possess powerful magnetic fields and thick atmospheres to deflect and absorb the space weather onslaught, life as we know it may find it challenging to evolve. Also, since these systems are so compact, tidal locking will be another issue. That's where one hemisphere of any orbiting exoplanets will continually face the star. It's hard to imagine a habitable world when one side is frozen in perpetual night.

But there is likely water in TRAPPIST-1, so if life can find a way elsewhere in our galaxy, we'd be hard-pressed to find a more suitable place where alien biology could gain a foothold.

Now That's Interesting If the TRAPPIST-1 exoplanets orbited the sun, they'd all occupy the region inside of Mercury's orbit, the solar system's innermost planet.Powered by beer that was cheaper than water and lamb pasties that cost a matter of pence, Sean frontside noseblunts this collapsing Latvian step construction, 2011. Photo  Leo Sharp.

What happened when you got hit around the head at MACBA  that was around this time wasnt it? That sounded pretty serious.

Id moved out of the Brazilians place and Id moved to Jacks house. Their house was outside of the city so it was a bit of a trek, and I wasnt going to come in that night but it was this girls last night before she went home and we had spent some time together so I wanted to see her before she left. Anyway, I was at MACBA beforehand; obviously I didnt have my board, we were just drinking. I went to the corner where most people go for a piss and these Moroccan guys were like what are you doing? Dont take a piss here, Id had a few drinks so was like yeah, whatever, then one of them started insulting me.

After I finished I walked over to them and asked whats your problem, mate? You dont need to say that shit and he said it again, so I said the same thing back to him. Before I knew it, a cupped hand came out of nowhere and hit me in the ear. It was so disorientating I did not know left from right, didnt know what was up or downthey could have jumped on me, I wouldnt know what direction they were coming from. Luckily I had a bunch of mates sitting a few meters away, so I walked back to them in shock and was like Im completely deaf in my left ear, this guy just whacked me. They all ran over to find the guy, but by that time theyd all run off.

What had happened to your ear?

He completely burst my eardrum. I didnt think it was too bad at first because I was drunk so I carried on drinking for the rest of the night (laughs). In the morning I was still deaf in my left ear so I went to the hospital, they had a look at it and they took it quite seriously. They said I had an 80% hole in my eardrum and said Id definitely need an operation on it. What they said was that if its a small hole in your eardrum, like under than 50%, itll heal on its own. If its a big hole, like 80%, you need an operation on it. They referred me to another hospital, they had a look at it and said something similar, but said it was a 60% hole. That was the point where I thought, I need to go home. There was always a language barrier and I felt I needed to understand properly what the doctors were saying to me.

When I got home, the hospital here told me that the hole had healed a bit more and it was only 40% now, so it was managing to heal itself.

For nine months I couldnt hear properly and I couldnt shower properly because I would risk infection if I got water in there when I was washing my hair. It affected my balance as well; I tried skating but I was taking some stupid slams.

That was 2013. When I got back I went straight into a job at a warehouse in Milton Keynes. I was over skating at that point; I just wanted to get my head down.



Sean from Sidewalk Mags In Progress (2011)The EPA debunked Administrator Pruitts latest climate misinformation

Posted on 12 February 2018 by dana1981

Last week, a Las Vegas news station interviewed Trumps EPA administrator Scott Pruitt. The interviewer brought up the topic of climate change, and virtually everything Pruitt said in response was wrong, and was often refuted on his own agencys website, until he started deleting it.

Humans are causing global warming. All of it.

To begin, Pruitt claimed that we dont know with precision whats causing global warming.

Our activity contributes to the climate changing to a certain degree. Now measuring that with precision, Gerard, I think is more challenging than is let on at times.

Heres what the EPA website said about that a year ago, before Pruitt got a hold of it as part of the Trump Administrations systematic deletion of government climate change websites:

Research indicates that natural causes do not explain most observed warming, especially warming since the mid-20th century. Rather, it is extremely likely that human activities have been the dominant cause of that warming.

To support this statement, the EPA referenced the latest IPCC report. The IPCC concluded with 95% confidence that humans are the main cause of global warming since 1950, with a best estimate that humans are responsible for all of the global warming during that time. Thats what the scientific research has overwhelmingly concluded:

The percentage of human contribution to global warming over the past 50-65 years from various peer-reviewed studies. Illustration: Dana Nuccitelli and John Cook

Similarly, the EPAs Students Guide to Climate Change (which has survived the Trump purge) says:

The Earth is getting warmer because people are adding heat-trapping gases to the atmosphere, mainly by burning fossil fuels  People are causing these changes, which are bigger and happening faster than any climate changes that modern society has ever seen before.

Its bad

Pruitt later shifted gears to repeat the third most popular climate myth:

I think theres assumptions made that because the climate is warming, that that necessarily is a bad thing.

This is not a matter of assumptions  its a conclusion supported by a vast body of scientific research. The EPA website likewise tackled this one, until Pruitt got his hands on it:

Scientific studies indicate that extreme weather events such as heat waves and large storms are likely to become more frequent or more intense with human-induced climate change.

And the EPAs Students Guide to Climate Change addresses it:

The negative impacts of global climate change will be less severe overall if people reduce the amount of greenhouse gases were putting into the atmosphere and worse if we continue producing these gases at current or faster rates.

The EPAs Climate Change Indicators page likewise lists a number of dangerous climate change consequences. Quite simply, more intense droughts, floods, and hurricanes, and coastal inundation from sea level rise are all very bad outcomes. And even the rosiest analyses conclude that any further global warming will be bad for the economy.

The ideal climate is a stable one

In fact, not only did Pruitt suggest the consequences of global warming wont be bad, he seemed to think theyll be good and humans will flourish.

Is it an existential threat - is it something that is unsustainable, or what kind of effect or harm is this going to have? We know that humans have most flourished during times of, what, warming trends?  Do we know what the ideal surface temperature should be in the year 2100 or year 2018? Its fairly arrogant for us to think we know exactly what it should be in 2100.

I asked climate scientists to answer this ideal temperature question last month. They all agreed that the ideal climate is a stable one. Pruitt is wrong to say humans flourished during warming trends  we flourished during times of relatively flat temperatures without rapid trends. Climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe explained:

There is no one perfect temperature for the earth, but there is for us humans, and thats the temperature weve had over the last few thousands of years when we built our civilization, agriculture, economy, and infrastructure. Global average temperature over the last few millennia has fluctuated by a few tenths of degrees; today, its risen by nearly 1C and counting. Why do we care? Because we are perfectly adapted to our current conditions

Pruitts goal with these answers is clearly to manufacture doubt  to make people think that we neednt take urgent action to slow global warming because the outcome might not be so bad. But that argument ignores the vast body of scientific evidence that clearly shows the net consequences of continued rapid climate change will fall somewhere in the range of bad to catastrophic. I summarized some of those consequences in this Denial101x lecture:

Pruitts fossil fuel agenda slips out

Toward the end of the interview, Pruitt let slip his allegiance to the fossil fuel industry:

Renewables need to be part of our energy mix, but to think thats going to be the dominant fuel, or dominant energy source on how we generate electricity, I think is simply fanciful  There was a declared war on coal. The EPA was weaponized against certain sectors of our economy  fossil fuels generally - and thats not the role of a regulator.

First of all, under the Obama administration, the EPA regulated carbon pollution because it was legally required to do so under the Clean Air Act, according to the Supreme Court. Thats not being weaponized against fossil fuels, its called enforcing the law to protect Americans health.

Second, there is no reason why renewables couldnt be the dominant fuel in our energy mix. In fact, several states have renewable portfolio standards and goals to make that happen. For example, Hawaii aims for 100% renewable energy by 2045, and California and New York have targets of 50% renewables by 2030. California is even ahead of schedule, on track to meet that goal a decade early, by 2020.

Lies about the Paris agreement

As if his misinformation about climate science and clean energy werent bad enough, Pruitt really laid it on thick when asked about the Paris climate accords.

[Paris] was a bad business deal for this country  it was not about CO2 reduction. If it was about CO2 reduction, they would not have let China and India take until 2030 to reduce their CO2 footprint.

In reality, the Paris agreement couldnt have been a better deal.

Click here to read the restPeoples lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation. Some are true and some are false. Some are old and some are new. There is no recovery for someone falsely accused - life and career are gone. Is there no such thing any longer as Due Process? This was President Trumps tweeted response after White House staffers David Sorensen and Rob Porter resigned over domestic-abuse allegations last week. Of course, if the 19 women who have accused Trump of sexual misconduct are lying, as the president and the White House have repeatedly claimed, his election to the presidency would stand as a rather powerful counterexample to the idea that the falsely accused are getting a raw deal today. This is the kind of flight from coherence weve come to expect from the president and his supporters. Counterexamples, counterarguments, history, and common sense dont hold a candle to the bold, repeated assertions and hyperbole of the reactionary mindset, widely taken now to be a kind of virus in the body politicexclusively taking in, we tell ourselves, the less educated, the racist, the stupid, the misguided, and the disingenuous.

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In short, the kind of people, it was said late last year, who lent their unwavering support to Alabama Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore after he was accused by multiple women of sexual misconduct against them when they were teens. One accused Moore of fondling her at the age of 14. The defenses and outright denials of this conduct by a remarkable number of Republican voters and pundits were taken as further evidence of how unhinged a large swath of the nonestablishment right had become. With characteristic wit, the New York Times conservative columnist Bret Stephens tweeted in early December that the GOP could now be called the GOPP. Grand Old Pedophile Party.

In a Conversation column with Gail Collins, Stephens decried the moral bankruptcy of Moores supporters. Roy Moore is what Republicans getand what they deservewhen they abandon mainstream Republicanism for populism, and when they renounce the idea that good moral character is a requirement of high political office, he wrote. Did you notice the Rev. Franklin Graham defending Moore by saying his accusers are guilty of doing much worse? For him, its all about putting a Christianist in the Senate, even if that Christianist molests teenagers. On Dec. 28, Stephens tweeted to Breitbarts Joel Pollak that he and the publication owed apologies to the victims of Roy Moores predations for their efforts to discredit them.

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Absent from this material is any doubt on Stephens part that Moore was in fact guilty of all that he had been accused of, despite the lack of anything like formal due process to adjudicate the claims against him. To Stephens, and every reasonable person in America, Moore was an obvious and unrepentant pedophile. Case closed.

Stephens ignored a number of relevant facts about the YaleNew Haven investigation.

On Friday, three months to the day after the first allegation against Roy Moore appeared in the Washington Post, Bret Stephens published a piece titled The Smearing of Woody Allen. It was framed as a response to Allens adopted daughter, Dylan Farrow, asking in the pages of the Los Angeles Times in December why the #MeToo movement had thus far spared Allen, who she has accused of assaulting her at the age of 7. An in-depth, contemporaneous and independent investigation into the allegations, conducted over several months by the YaleNew Haven Hospital in 1992 and 1993, noted that there were important inconsistencies in Dylans statements, and that her descriptions of the details surrounding the alleged events were unusual and were inconsistent,  Stephens wrote, citing the hospitals expert opinion that Dylan was not sexually abused by Mr. Allen. Stephens went on to write that young children are imaginative and suggestible and innocently prone to making things up and noted also that [n]obody else has come forward in 25 years with a fresh accusation of assault against him. The latter observation immediately preceded one of the most remarkable paragraphs the New York Times has published in recent memory: If Allen is in fact a pedophile, he appears to have acted on his evil fantasies exactly once, Stephens wrote. Compare that to Larry Nassars 265 identified victims.

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On its face, this seems like simple and impressively brazen whataboutism. In the discussions on social media that followed the piece, some have suggested that Stephens was trying to say that there was more evidence in Nassars case to indict him than there is in Allens. In any case, certain facts advanced by Stephens critics, including Pod Save America co-host Jon Lovett, seem relevant. As a correction appended to the bottom of Stephens piece now notes, there were two other investigations of the allegations against Allen that Stephens failed to mentionan investigation by the New York State Department of Social Services and an investigation by the Connecticut State Police. The Department of Social Services concurred with YaleNew Haven that there was insufficient evidence that Farrow had been abused. But Frank Maco, the Connecticut state prosecutor who commissioned the YaleNew Haven inquiry, said in 1993 that he believed that there was, in fact, probable cause to prosecute Allen, although he had declined to do so out of concern about the impact a trial would have had on Farrow. Stephens ignored a number of other relevant facts about the YaleNew Haven investigationits independence has been challenged over the years, including in a 1993 custody ruling in which the judge questioned the conclusiveness of YaleNew Havens findings, stated that Allen had attacked Dylans mother, Mia, for manipulating her against him without the support of any significant credible evidence, and said that Allens behavior with Dylan, generally speaking, had been grossly inappropriate, and that measures must be taken to protect her.

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There was no mention in Stephens piece either of the fact that a babysitter had sworn in court that she had seen Allen with his face in Dylans lap on the day of the alleged assault, a day that, as a tutor working at the Farrow house had testified, Dylan had not been wearing underpants under her dress. Stephens piece also curiously neglects to consider Allens body of work. As David Klion, writing in Jewish Currents, and Ira Madison III, writing at the Daily Beast, have noted recently, relationships between middle-aged men and much younger women feature heavily. Most infamously, in the film Manhattan, a comedy writer, played by a 43-year-old Allen, dates a 17-year-old girl played by Mariel Hemingway, who has claimed she shared her first kiss with Allen at 16 while filming a scene. Stephens additionally makes only a brief passing reference to Allens affair with, in his words, Mia Farrows adopted, barely adult daughter, Soon-Yi Previn, who is now Allens wife.

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These facts, while not constituting definitive proof of Allens guilt, would have been important to reckon with seriously given that theyve lent plausibility to Dylans allegation in the minds of many. Stephens responded to them on social media with a revealing petulance. To argue simply that there is insufficient evidence against Woody Allen is one thing. To claim, as Stephens did after publication, that those who disagree are participating in an illegitimate and irresponsible verdict first, trial never Twitter mob is quite another.

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This characterization of the growing criticism of Allen could have applied just as easily to the public reactions to allegations against Roy Moore, Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, Matt Lauer, or Charlie Rose, none of whom were subjected to what we conventionally call due process or a trial before public judgements were rendered against them by people including Bret Stephens. It is not clear, given this, what Stephens means when he writes that Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey have been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt or when he calls for the presumption of innocence on Allens behalf in his column. These are terms of legal parlance invoked as though they can confer an easy formality on situations that havent yet been settled in any court but the court of public opinion. Conventionally, the latter term has meant that one suspected of wrongdoing should be considered innocent until theyre actually sanctioned by legal authorities, whether theyve been accused by one, 10, or 100 people. Again, Stephensperhaps possessed of a more exquisite conscience than the rest of ushas been willing to surrender that presumption in other instances.

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A clunky but reasonably descriptive phrase for what Stephens does is reactionary contrarianism.

The difficulty here, already recognized by a number of commenters who have praised or consider themselves part of the #MeToo movement, is that the public opprobrium he characterizes as mob justice is in fact the only plausible recourse for a large swath of cases of sexual misconductcases in which allegations are brought years after the fact or claims from the accuser and the accused are the only evidence available for assessment. It is unlikely that Woody Allen will ever be tried for Farrows accusation. So former and current colleagues, sponsors of his films, and ordinary people who consume his art render their judgments on his character on the basis of the facts available to them, including several that, again, Stephens could not be bothered to examine. If there are reasons why this process of public-opinion formation should be considered more untoward and moblike than the processes that routinely reduce the esteem of other public figures for any number of reasons, Stephens has done a poor job of articulating them. Moreover, the fact that there have been more accusers in other #MeToo cases doesnt change the fact that the forces at work against Allennamely journalism and social mediaare the very same forces that, again, have felled others that Stephens has seen fit to condemn. If theres something inherently rotten about the process by which people have made up their minds about Allen, then theres something inherently rotten about the whole enterprise. Stephens, if he believes this, should say so and apologize, perhaps, for The Smearing of Roy Moore. Alternatively, he ought to consider developing an evidentiary standard to ascertain the kinds of cases activists should put stock in. Of course, this falls outside the purview of what the Times has chiefly hired him to do, which is perform martyrdom and reassure the powers that be at the Times of their own open-mindedness.

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A clunky but reasonably descriptive phrase for what Stephens does is reactionary contrarianism. This particular strain of contrarianism is a political project against cultural liberalism that, as the presidents tweet in defense of Sorensen and Porter demonstrates, has a deep resonance with other dark undercurrents of the current political moment. The paranoia of believing that there are everywhere radical bogeymen and agents of totalitarianism and the idea that there exists a vast, toxic, and tremendously influential swamp populated by the far left, liberals in the press, college students, feminists, and so on are evidently shared not only by Roy Moore supporters and unrepentant Trumpists but certain self-appointed voices of reason in the cultural right and center. One of the most Trumpian moments of the new year was Katie Roiphes claiming on a national television program last week that people with her critical views of #MeToo are being silenced. The thought police were evidently asleep at the switch. If #MeToo critics ever go to the trouble of holding rallies, complaints about the censorship of crowd size numbers will inevitably follow. In New York magazine on Friday, Andrew Sullivan deployed the phrase cultural Marxism to describe the #MeToo movement and political correctness on campus. The alt-right does the same, although in Sullivans defense, theyre referencing an anti-Semitic conspiracy theory only about half the time.

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This isnt to say, of course, that the far right and columnists like Stephens are morally equivalent or advancing the exact same ideology. It seems possible, though, that Bari Weiss could have a second career hawking tinfoil headgear and dubious multivitamins on YouTube if she wanted it. On Bill Mahers show Friday, she was still advancing the hysterical fiction that a substantial proportion of #MeToos activists believe that Aziz Ansaris alleged actions are ethically equivalent to the actions of Harvey Weinstein. Earlier this month, the comedian Amy Schumer was asked about Ansari and said of his alleged misconduct, Its not a crime, but its not cool. This would have been a career-ending blunder if it were the case, as Weiss and others have routinely claimed, that anyone who doesnt condemn all imperfect men in the severest of terms is sent into cultural exile. Schumer, at last check, seems to be alive, well, and prosperous. But the witch hunt against witch-hunters continues, and critics of political correctness and #MeToo, in a frenzy of wild accusations, will be casting extremists and invented opponents as representative of the cultural left for the foreseeable future.

The tragedy of the mob, Stephens tweeted on Saturday, is that those in them rarely think of themselves as part of a mob. How right he is.This piece was originally published on Just Security, an online forum for analysis of U.S. national security law and policy.

There is an intelligence emergency emanating from the White House. The news that Rob Porter worked as staff secretary for more than a year without a permanent clearance is synonymous with saying that there was a giant invitation to foreign intelligence services hanging on the steps of the White House. But Porter was not the only one in this position, and it is important to understand how these unusual White House practices place United States security at risk.

Why does the FBI refuse to authorize security clearance for people like Porter? It means that investigatorsfor more than a full yearcould not conclude that he was eligible, from a security standpoint, under national security standards for access to classified information. In Porters case, the fact that he was hiding egregious problems, including a history of violence and a temporary restraining order against him, is probably why the FBI did not grant him a permanent clearance. They were not confident in his ability to handle classified information responsibly because he was highly vulnerable to foreign intelligence agencies recruitment.

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Foreign intelligence operatives target as potential assets people in government who have access to sensitive information, exercise influence, and hide serious personal problems. Porter had all of those ingredients. An ideal foreign intelligence target was operating within the West Wing, reviewing highly classified papers that went to the president. Porter is not an anomaly but rather evidence of a systemwide failure.

The news about Porters interim clearance isnt the first weve heard about a senior administration official who has failed to convince federal investigators that he can be trusted with classified information. Reporting from just a few weeks ago indicated that Jared Kushner is reading the Presidents Daily Brief with an interim clearance. After the Porter news broke, we learned that 3040 White House officials and political appointees are operating with interim clearances.

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Lets be clearthis is highly abnormal and wholly unprecedented. After each of these reports, the White House has tried to obfuscate reality and point to red herrings, like Deputy Press Secretary Raj Shahs recent excuse that the yearlong interim clearance isnt that big of a deal because a clearance hasnt been denied. Thats irrelevant disinformation.

Information is classified for a reasonprofessionals assess that its disclosure could be reasonably expected to cause identifiable or describable damage to national security. Different levels of classification correspond to the level of danger that a disclosure would havethe higher the classification, the higher the danger from a disclosure.

And thats where we get to why we have security clearances. In order to be trusted to collect, consume, and discuss classified information, the Intelligence Community wants to be assured that individuals will not unintentionally or intentionally disclose the information. Other countries are actively trying to get access to our intelligence. Its one of the oldest games in the book, and people with access to classified information are priority targets. So the IC wants to be sure that clearance holders wont be easily manipulated by well-trained foreign intelligence agents.

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Our intelligence partnerships were already under stress.

Manipulation and exploitation become a lot easier when a target has secrets of their ownundisclosed or misreported contacts with foreign nationals, unethical business ties, affairs, drug use, gambling debtanything an individual doesnt want coming out publicly. The massive Chinese hack of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management is believed to have been aimed at uncovering sensitive personal information that the Chinese could use to blackmail U.S. government employees. Soviet operatives during the Cold War, and Russian intelligence services up through the present, have used kompromator compromising materialto blackmail targets into doing what they want. Rob Porters two ex-wives allegations of domestic abuse definitely fall into the kompromat categoryhe didnt want these allegations being made public. (He resigned once they became so.)

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It is true that Porter had an interim clearance, but according to the U.S. government, an interim security clearance is based on the completion of a minimum set of investigative requirements and is granted on a temporary basis, pending the completion of the full investigative requirements. It is most likely that Porter and Kushners interim clearances were granted before the personal security investigation got very far. The fact remains that federal investigators could not, for more than a year now, come to the decision that neither Porter, nor Kushner, nor any of the other 3040 staff members with interim clearances could be trusted with the nations greatest secrets.

Just take a moment to think: We have had federal investigators unable to adjudicate eligibility for access to classified information for more than a year, and prime foreign intelligence targets, with personally compromising secrets, roaming the halls of the White House digesting classified information.

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If the White House does not clear up this ongoing breach in handling national security information, it will have downstream consequences. Over many decades, the government has built an internal culture of patriotism and professionalism around the handling of national secrets. To be sure, there have been lapses in all administrations, but a measure of effectiveness has been the response once those lapses are discovered. The White House is a central hub for this system to work properly. The systemic failures in the White House, including any undeserved special waivers from the president, threaten to erode the norms that help protect classified information. It is time for this chief of staff, or a new one, to remedy the intelligence emergency emanating from within the White House itself. It is important to understand that the scale of the problem is not just about individuals like Porter and Kushner but also includes the collateral costs for the internal system as a whole.

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More than just sending a smoke signal to foreign intelligence operatives hunting for opportunities for recruitment, this latest set of reporting will undoubtedly also put more pressure on already strained relationships with foreign intelligence partners. The world now knows that people who federal investigators havent deemed eligible to handle classified intelligence are, well, handling classified intelligence. This should logically lead our foreign partners, who are highly rational actors, to share lesswhy provide highly sensitive and closely held information to the United States when it could end up in the hands of several individuals who could not get approval from federal investigators for anything more than an interim clearance for more than a year? The answer is pretty clearyoud be irrational to share as much.

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Our intelligence partnerships were already under stress. As I detailed last week, our intelligence partners have been concerned about potential ties between Trump and Russia and the presidents mishandling of other information, such as his disclosure of Israeli intelligence to the Russian foreign minister. Then, add on his decision to declassify the Nunes memo, despite the objections of his intelligence community, before ever reading the document. With this newest fuel added to the fire, it is likely that we will be getting less potentially lifesaving intelligence.

Our national security depends on a system of mutually beneficial relationships with intelligence partners in the world. We fill in gaps for one anotherwhere we have better signals intelligence, for example, our partners may have better human intelligence, and vice versa. These relationships depend on trust, and our track record over the past 12 months is as embarrassing as it is dangerous.

More from Just Security:

If Trump Pleads the Fifth, Here Are Muellers Options

It Is Up to House Intel Committee, not Trump, Whether to Release Democratic Memo on the Page FISA ApplicationThe interim head of the Federal Railroad Administration resigned Saturday after Politico found evidence he was moonlighting as a public information officer for the Madison County Sheriffs Department in Mississippi.

Heath Hall, who was appointed deputy administrator in June, found time to appear at least twice in local news segments on behalf of a sheriffs department in Mississippi, where he has a public relations and political consulting firm. Politico also found that the county had continued to pay for the firms services even though Hall had said in a federal ethics form that the company would be shuttered while he worked for the federal government.

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County records showed that the sheriffs department had paid Halls firm $12,000 from July through December, the months after Hall took his position in the FRA, Politico reported. (It is not certain that those payments were for services performed after Hall joined the FRA.) Halls firm also received a $75,000 contract from the county board of supervisors in the week he took over the FRA.

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The agency has not had a permanent leader for more than a year, according to Politico, as Senate Democrats have blocked the confirmation of Trumps nominee. In the meantime, the agency, which has a budget of $1.7 billion, saw an uptick in fatal accidents, with four since December.

We were unaware of the information that is being reported but those allegations, if they are true, are troubling, a spokeswoman from the Department of Transportation told Politico. Hall had been on a leave of absence since January to address an urgent family matter. The spokeswoman said that departure had been made permanent, and Hall had resigned effective immediately.Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand got the star treatment on Sunday night. CBS News devoted more than a dozen of its 60 Minutes to the New York Democrat, the bulk of which were spent painting her as an equal-opportunity crusader against sexual harassment. She has called out the president of the United States and longtime Democratic allies like former President Bill Clinton and Sen. Al Franken, correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi informed viewers at the outset. That candor and her willingness to be out frontoften alonehas made her a lightning rod and one of the most prominent political faces of the Me Too movement.

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Thats not bad press, if you can get it. If Gillibrand has the presidential aspirations many believe she does, she couldnt have asked for a better introduction to those Americans who will vote in the Democratic primaries in two years time. And in addition to being dubbed the #MeToo senator, the segment also came with the usual soft-focus trappings of a newsmagazine profile that can leave you feeling like youre watching a campaign ad. There Gillibrand was packing lunch for one of her sons and riding with her entire family in a minivan. Here she was walking around her childhood home and sledding down a snowy hill with her mother. And there she was talking about her religious faith and quoting Scripture with ease.

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It wasnt until about two-thirds of the way through the segment that Alfonsi went to the tape to press Gillibrand to explain a few of her past positions that could represent major hurdles in a nominating race that very well may come down to who can run left the fastest and farthest: her past conservative views on guns and immigration.

As my colleague Osita Nwanevu pointed out a few months ago, the Gillibrand we see today looks very different than the one we saw back in 2007, when she was on her way to becoming the unlikely winner of a House seat in a largely rural and heavily Republican district in upstate New York:

Upon winning, she became a member of the Blue Dog Coalition of conservative Democrats. She supported a balanced budget amendment and a ban on deficit spending. Her immigration platform was of a piece with the proto-Trumpism brewing during George W. Bushs second termno amnesty or benefits for illegal aliens; a crackdown on sanctuary cities like New York; more agents, fencing, and tech for the border; and legislation making English Americas official language. The Human Rights Campaign, an LGBTQ advocacy group, gave her the lowest rating of any New York Democrat in Congress for her positions on gay rights issues. Her rating from the National Rifle Association, meanwhile, was a solid 100 percent.

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All of that made her a controversial pick to fill the Senate seat that opened up when President Obama tapped Hillary Clinton to be his secretary of state in 2009. Asked about why her views had changed, Gillibrand had an unusually straightforward answer.

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After I got appointed, I went down to Brooklyn to meet with families who had suffered from gun violence in their communities, she said. And you immediately experience the feeling that I couldnt have been more wrongyou know I only had the lens of upstate New York.

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She offered up a similar answer on immigration: I came from a district that was 98 percent white.  And I just didnt take the time to understand why these issues mattered because it wasnt right in front of me. And that was my fault. It was something that Im embarrassed about and Im ashamed of.

As Alfonsi pointed out, to say Gillibrand only had the lens of upstate New York is somewhat misleading, since she had lived in New York City for a decade before returning to upstate to a run for a congressional seat. From their exchange:

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Alfonsi: But you hadlived in New York City Gillibrand: I know. Alfonsi: for a decade. Gillibrand: And thats why I was embarrassed. Alfonsi: You traveled abroad. Gillibrand: I was wrong. What its about is the power of the NRA and the greed of that industry. Lets be clear. It is not about hunters rights, its about money. Alfonsi: Your critics will say its political opportunism. Gillibrand: As is their right. They can say what they like.

Its an approach that learns some lessons from the woman Gillibrand replaced in the Senate. Hillary Clinton had to explain away a lot two years agofrom her past use of the word superpredator and to her (more recent) use of a private email account and beyond. And you can believe those changes in heart were sincere and still concede she took an awfully long time to make them public. (The same can be said for Bernie Sanders and his views on guns, by the way.)

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And thats what makes Gillibrands mea culpa so striking. Rather than muddle through any based on the information I had at the time disclaimers, shes skipping over that awkward step between explaining why you did something your base doesnt like and apologizing for it.

That strategy has served her well in New York. Since her sudden conversion in 2009, Gillibrand has given liberal critics little reason to doubt her commitment to their cause, earning an F from the NRA (to go with an A from her upstate years) and becoming one of the louder champions for immigrants rights and immigration reform. Without an opening to her left, a host of Democrats who promised to primary her in 2010 never made good on the threat, and two years later, Gillibrand won one of the most overwhelming victories in New York political history. This year, she faces only a token Republican challenge to her re-election.

But Gillibrand wont face such a clear path in 2020, when as many as a dozen Democrats could be battling for the progressive mantle. So, Gillibrand is doing her best to air out the issues now, hoping that liberals in Iowa and New Hampshire will focus on her unblemished record in the Senate and not a handful of highly damning House votes from a decade ago. As Gillibrand herself said in the 60 Minutes interview, if youre wrong, just admit it and move on.On Sunday, Pakistans greatest champion of human rights, democracy, and equalityAsma Jahangirdied in Lahore, at age 66, from a heart attack. She leaves behind her husband, three children, and a country that became fairer and more decent because of her work. Jahangir challenged military dictators, lambasted Islamist extremist groups, protected womens rights, helped to found and lead the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, and put herself at great risk by defending her countrys besieged minorities. She accomplished all this with her fearless voice and a dedication to the hard, practical work of politics and the law.

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Jahangir came from a wealthy family in Punjab, and was only 6 when Pakistan faced its first coup, in 1958. Her father, a civil servant, decided to oppose the new military regime; he was arrested, for the first time, three years later, and his life was continually in danger. Jahangirs response was precisely not to be cowed into believing that activism in a country like Pakistan is best undertaken hesitantly and intermittently; instead she was inspired to become an activist and human rights champion herself. By her late teens, she was demonstrating against the same dictator who had imprisoned her father and in favor of womens rights. When she was 18, after her father had been arrested again, she even filed a petition to the Lahore High Court seeking his release. It was unsuccessful, but after she appealed to the Supreme Court, the martial law that had led to her fathers arrest was declared illegal.

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The next decade, the 1970s, was Pakistans most turbulent, and by the time it was over, the country had lost half its population; East Pakistan seceded to become Bangladesh and the remaining western wing was ruled over by another brutal dictator, Zia-ul-Haq. Jahangir again chose to act, this time by studying law, and in 1980, she opened the first legal-aid center in Pakistan. (All the lawyers were women.) Over the next decade, she went to prison for contesting Zias misogynistic laws, and gave voice and legal support to victims of sexual assault. Zias Hudood ordinances, which he pushed through in his Islamicization drive, left women vulnerable to punishment for adultery (if, say, they were raped) and other sexual behavior. Jahangir bravely opposed them and took up a key case that helped ensure that adult women did not require a guardians approval to marry.

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Heroes sometimes take the guise of apparitions, or seem unwilling to get their hands too dirty. Jahangir was the opposite.

Its easy, when going through Jahangirs career, to feel like you are reading or typing an endless list of causes, achievements, and struggles. But the breadth of the battles she engaged in and causes she upheld are integral to understanding what was important to her and why she was so important to Pakistan. Like many heroic lawyers the world over, she often grounded her activism in the earthy realities of procedure; she fought for clients, trying to assure that they would have access to a fair trial, and she attempted to enunciate both why Pakistan would be better off if everyone had recourse to the law and why many of the laws should be more equitable. In 2007, she was placed under house arrest for her role in the so-called lawyers movement, which helped end Pervez Musharrafs dictatorship. Jahangir viewed her legal career as something that could help individual people and could lead to large-scale societal change. She eventually became president of the countrys Supreme Court Bar Association.

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A friend related to me that when he and someone else were facing tear gas and the prospect of arrest during that same 2007 crisis, their thoughts immediately turned to getting Jahangirs help if anything bad happened to them, or they were arrested. It was also Jahangir whom abused women were known to mention to their husbands, as if to say, You keep this up, and I will go to Asma. If she couldnt help everyone, she at least gave the less fortunatetoo often womenhope that there was someone out there standing up for them. That this same woman was willing to stand up to dictators and Islamist radicalsin a country where Christians and Muslim minorities face severe threatsis part of what made her so formidable.

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While her death is a reminder of the ways Pakistan is not yet the country she fought for, her attachment to the place was profound. She refused to leave the country when she was in danger, and yet she also never let her commitment to Pakistan blind her to its flaws; the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, she explained, would continue its focus on outrages in the country, even though turning the spotlight on other countries, like India, would have eased the nationalist pressure and cries of treason that she faced.

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Her death occasioned a number of tributes from across the Pakistani political scene, proving once again that spineless, shameless politicians will always try to appropriate names or causes that they would never have stood up for in the heat of political battle. (The death of Martin Luther King Jr. had the same effect on the American political scene.) But dont let the universal acclaim today mislead: Jahangir championed causes and people that few others would. And when they did, they often ended up like the former governor of Punjab, Salmaan Taseer, who was assassinated seven years ago for speaking out against the countrys blasphemy law. Jahangir was not blind to the flaws of the civilian politicians who today have celebrated her, but she understood that civilian supremacyrather than military rulewas a necessary condition for Pakistan to flourish. However flawed democracy here is, she once told the New Yorker, it is still the only answer.

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Jahangirs leadership was unique, but she was not fighting alone. It was impossible to meet anyone in the Pakistani activist or journalist community who did not have a story about her supporting their cause, pushing for their release from prison, or helping out a friend or relative. One journalist recounted to me the story of Jahangir reaching out after seeing her television report in order to offer aid to the person who had been profiled; it was, she told me, one of the only moments where I felt Id made a difference. Many Pakistanisespecially liberal or secular onesoften speak of politics with a practiced, amusing cynicism. That was never the case when anyone brought up Jahangir; she was spoken of reverently, with real awe. She must have had to make compromises in her lifeas everyone does, especially if you want to get things done in a country like Pakistanbut she appeared as unsullied by hypocrisy as humanly possible.

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And yet, if Jahangir occasionally seemed to have a saintly glow, she was also biting and funny in publicjust see her Twitter feedand would get down in the muck with her adversaries. Heroes sometimes take the guise of apparitions, or seem unwilling to get their hands too dirty. She was the opposite. There was nothing she wouldnt push for. The amount of good work and courage she showed should make us all wince a little bit, because it is an uncomfortable reminder that we could all be doing a little more to make our countries better and fairer. How fortunate we are to live among people who will never stop fightingat least until they are lost to us, much too soon.On Wednesday night, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court finally released its majority opinion explaining why Republicans gerrymander of Pennsylvanias congressional districts violates the state constitution. (On Jan. 22, the court had issued a brief order directing the Legislature to redraw the illegal districts without fully explaining its reasoning.) Justice Debra McCloskey Todds 139-page opinion for the court is thorough and persuasiveand, critically, its reasoning isnt entirely limited to Pennsylvania. Instead, Todd illustrates how dozens of other state constitutions may be interpreted to protect voting rights more robustly than the U.S. Constitution does. Her decision will arm activists in every state with a powerful new tool in the fight against political redistricting.

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The U.S. Supreme Court will soon decide whether partisan gerrymandering runs afoul of the First and 14th amendments. But, as Todd explained, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court had no obligation to wait for SCOTUS decision in Gill v. Whitford, because the Pennsylvania Constitution provides rights independent from the U.S. Constitution. Specifically, the state constitutionwhich actually predates its federal counterpartdeclares that all elections shall be free and equal.

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Nearly 150 years ago, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that this provision requires all votes to be equally potent in any election. In 1914, the court reiterated that this clause guarantees that every voter has the same right as every other voter, and each voter under the law has the right to cast his ballot and have it honestly counted. And in 1986, the court clarified that any law that dilutes the vote of any segment of the constituency infringes upon the Free and Equal Elections Clause.

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In 2018, then, the question for the court was whether political redistrictingdrawing congressional lines to entrench a certain partys electoral powerimpermissibly dilutes certain voters ballots. Todd easily concluded that it did. Partisan gerrymandering, she explained, dilutes the votes of those who in prior elections voted for the party not in power to give the party in power a lasting electoral advantage. She continued:

By placing voters preferring one partys candidates in districts where their votes are wasted on candidates likely to lose (cracking), or by placing such voters in districts where their votes are cast for candidates destined to win (packing), the non-favored partys votes are diluted. It is axiomatic that a diluted vote is not an equal vote, as all voters do not have an equal opportunity to translate their votes into representation. This is the antithesis of a healthy representative democracy. Indeed, for our form of government to operate as intended, each and every Pennsylvania voter must have the same free and equal opportunity to select his or her representatives.

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Pennsylvania provides a stark example of this phenomenon. Democrats and Republicans have received roughly the same number of votes in the past three House electionsthat is, since the current gerrymander took effect. Republicans have seized 13 House seats in each election. Democrats have taken just five.

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To remedy the problem, Todd looked to the traditional, neutral criteria that the framers of the Pennsylvania Constitution used to draw districts. Those map-makers placed a high value on geographical continuity, minimizing the division of municipalities and counties between districts. Partisan map-makers, by contrast, largely ignored such continuity in gerrymandering the state. (Before 1992, no municipalities in Pennsylvania were divided among multiple districts; the current map divides 68 municipalities among two or more districts.) Todd pointed to Pennsylvanias notorious 7th Congressional Districta Rorschachian sprawl that hinges, ludicrously, around a restaurant called Creeds Seafood & Steaksby way of example. The Washington Posts Christopher Ingraham has mapped the evolution of this mangled district:

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The evolution of Pennsylvania's 7th congressional district, from 1953 to today https://t.co/A3n0Iklmq8 pic.twitter.com/xUwwwUnsly  Christopher Ingraham (@_cingraham) February 8, 2018

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The court ordered the Legislature to draw new districts composed of compact and contiguous territory that do not unnecessarily divide any municipalities or counties. If the Legislature and the governor cannot agree on a new, nonpartisan map by Thursday, the court will commission one itself for use in the 2018 midterms.

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The right to vote may be understood to encompass the right to vote in a genuinely competitive district.

By its own terms, the courts decision applies exclusively to Pennsylvania. But in a lengthy footnote, Todd notes that 12 other state constitutions include a Free and Equal Elections Clause identical to Pennsylvanias. Courts in at least three of these statesDelaware, Illinois, and Kentuckyhave already interpreted this clause to provide an equal right to each citizen, on par with every other citizen, to elect their representatives. None of these states supreme courts have yet considered a gerrymandering-related claim under their state constitution. But if they do, Todd suggested, they may well find that no election that takes place under a gerrymandered map is truly free and equal.

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Todd neednt have stopped there. As University of Kentucky College of Law professor Joshua Douglas has noted, virtually every state constitution protects voting rights more explicitly than the U.S. Constitution does. In addition to the 13 states that require elections to be free and equal, an additional 13 require elections to be free and open, a similar command that has been interpreted identically. Forty-nine states expressly protect the right to vote (unlike the federal Constitution). Only Arizonas constitution does not guarantee that rightbut it does contain a Free and Equal Elections Clause, which the state Supreme Court has interpreted to protect voting rights. Moreover, most state constitutions lay out guidelines for the redistricting process, and none consider partisan advantage to be the kind of legitimate criteria that legislatures can use to draw maps.

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State courts have occasionally invoked these provisions to strike down burdens on the franchise, such as voter ID laws. The Pennsylvania Supreme Courts ruling raises the possibility that they might also be used to combat partisan gerrymandering. Perry Grossman, senior staff attorney at the New York Civil Liberty Unions Voting Rights Project (and an occasional Slate contributor), told me that the right to vote is more than just the right to cast a ballot. Its the right to cast an effective ballot. Grossman said that broad, strong language about the right to vote contained in so many state constitutions offers a sharper sword against many types of disenfranchisement, including vote dilution as well as vote denial. Put differently, the right to vote may be understood to encompass the right to vote in a genuinely competitive district.

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Some voting rights advocates have worried that federal courts might stymie such efforts by invoking the federal Constitutions Elections Clause, which grants certain redistricting powers to state legislatures. Indeed, Pennsylvania Republicans brought this exact claim in their emergency appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. But on Monday, Justice Samuel Alito rejected that emergency appeal without comment. It appears likely, then, that SCOTUS will stay out of gerrymandering disputes between legislatures and state courtsgiving those courts an opportunity to reinvigorate state-based protections against partisan redistricting.

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Of course, the U.S. Supreme Courts impending decision in Gill v. Whitford looms over the Pennsylvania battle. And it is possible that SCOTUS could prohibit partisan gerrymandering altogether. But it appears much more likely that the justices will limit only truly extreme political redistricting, leaving leeway for legislators to draw districts that still disfavor the minority party. If that happens, advocates across the country should finish the work of Gill by challenging partisan gerrymanders under their states constitutions. Not every state supreme court is as progressive as Pennsylvanias, but plenty are sufficiently nonpartisan to grasp the threat that gerrymandering poses to democracy. Judges in every state have the power to push back against the illegitimate entrenchment of political power through redistricting. Pennsylvania just showed them how to use that power.McAfee analysts released research on Monday indicating that Lazarus, a cybercrime group known for its association with North Korea as well for its involvement in the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack and the 2014 Sony hack, is now using never-before-seen tactics to attempt to steal Bitcoin in a campaign called HaoBao. In his summary of the findings, senior McAfee analyst Ryan Sherstobitoff characterizes the recent spate of hacks as an ambitious campaign by Lazarus to establish cryptocurrency cybercrime at a sophisticated level.

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Last month, McAfee discovered a fake Word document that purported to have a job description for a bank executive position in Hong Kong. The Lazarus group, assuming the identity of a recruiter, had sent a Dropbox link to the document in a spear phishing email. The document contains a malicious implant that recipients are tricked into enabling through a false notification, which states that the file was created in a previous version of Microsoft Word. The implant then scans the computers for cryptocurrency wallets, a type of software that people use to store their bitcoins, in order to identify them for further attacks.

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Bitcoin theft isnt new, but it has proliferated during the cryptocurrency boom of the last year. The crime often involves a hacker gaining access to an owners private key, a string of code that unlocks a wallet. Upon breaching the program, hackers can then transfer those funds to their own wallet. Large-scale thefts have been known to cripple large crypto organizations in the past: Mt. Gox, once the largest crypto exchange, had to declare bankruptcy in 2014 after hackers absconded with $460 million worth of bitcoin.

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In the case of HaoBao, McAfee analysts found several of the malicious Word documents listing the same author from Jan. 16 to Jan. 24, which had been sent to companies using phishing emails. Though Lazarus has been known to spoof Microsoft Word in the past, the HaoBao campaign is notable for its smaller and more sophisticated implant, which has the ability to launch the attack directly into a computers memory and thus leaves a limited footprint. Lazarus is also automating the attack to target a large number of potential victims and focusing on bitcoin users, all of which increases their chances of stealing wallet contents. Sherstobitoff told Slate, Its becoming more organized than when [Lazarus] first started targeting cryptocurrencies. Theyre now finding ways so that they can send it out to 300 organizations and hit two percent of them successfully.Heres a dilemma of the smartphone era: If you are feeling sick enough to need to go the hospital, should you call an ambulance or request an Uber? Some patients appear to be opting for the latteran analysis conducted by University of Kansas researchers found a 7 percent decline in ambulance calls in areas where UberX was available. Of course, a correlation doesnt imply a causation, and its also worth noting that while theyve made their conclusions public, the paper has not yet been peer-reviewed for publication. But the dilemma seems inevitable, and isnt one youd want to spend a ton of time deliberating over in the moment. So Slate interviewed experts, Uber drivers, and a patient to find out: When should you call an Uber over an ambulance? And when is that a terrible idea?

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While the app factor may be new, wondering whether you should call 911 isnt. People have been transporting themselves to the ER for decades, whether by asking a friend to drive or hailing a cab, said Dr. Robert Holman, medical director of D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services. At the same time, others call ambulances when they might not need to, using resources that could otherwise go to more urgent calls; Holman said lowest-acuity (basically the least severe) calls constituted 24 percent of D.C.s transports.

In certain circumstances, the professionals I interviewed agreed: Its perfectly reasonable to call a ride instead of dialing 911. If youre doing it for the right reasons, if you dont think its urgent, if you dont think that an extra 10 or 15 minutes matter, then I think that its perfectly appropriate that you consider alternative transportation, said Dr. James Langabeer II, an emergency medical technician and professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston who studies medical decision-making. Riding in an ambulance doesnt change your place in the triage queue. And in some areas, ambulances are required to take patients to the closest emergency room, so if you want a guaranteed choice of hospital, Uber or Lyft may present a good way to get there.

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For their parts, Uber and Lyft discourage riders from using their services to get to the emergency department. In response to my requests for comment, both flatly denied that their services ought to play a role. When it comes to medical emergencies, Lyft should not be used as a substitute for emergency transportation. People should be calling 911, wrote a Lyft spokesperson. Similarly, Uber commented, Uber is not a substitute for law enforcement of medical professionals. In the event of any medical emergency, we always encourage people to call 911.

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In certain circumstances, the professionals I interviewed agreed: Its perfectly reasonable to call a ride instead of dialing 911.

There are clear reasons why these companies would issue these statementslegal liability topping the list. Of course theyre not going to encourage you to use their services when experiencing a medical emergency. But when do emergency care providers say ambulances are the necessary choice? If youre considering the best mode of transport to the ER, first assess severity. How bad is your current state, and how likely is it to worsen soon? Some symptoms that should result in a 911 call include trouble breathing; severe pain; pregnancy-related complications; suspected internal bleeding; signs of stroke like sudden numbness, weakness, or speech problems; or a change in mental status. Dr. Eric L. Weiss, an emergency medicine doctor who teaches at the Stanford University School of Medicine, also recommended taking the ambulance for anything at risk of becoming bad in short order, like an asthma attack. After all, an Uber or Lyft could get stuck in traffic with no way out.

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Of course, the time spent getting to the hospital is just one half of the equationit also matters how quickly the vehicle can get to you. According to a research letter in JAMA Surgery that evaluated the data from more than 1.75 million EMS calls that took place in 2015, it took an ambulance in an urban or suburban area an average of about seven minutes to arrive at the scene. A rideshare might be able to get to you faster, although the drivers cant use sirens to clear the roads or legally speed (ambulances are allowed to go 10 miles over the speed limit in many places in the U.S.).

If your bodily fluids arent under control, thats not fair to your driverand you could get charged a damage fee

But more crucially, in serious circumstances, ambulances can not only bust through traffic, but the people inside of them can also provide life-saving care en route. Theyre each staffed by two highly trained emergency medical services personnel and have a wide array of medical equipmentIVs, pain medications, nebulizers, body fluid containment, EKGs, and defibrillators. Youre lucky if your Uber driver has mint Life Savers and a water bottle.

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Even if your ailment isnt what professionals would call life or limb-threatening, there are issues of courtesy to consider, too. If you have a nonstop cough or severe fever, you dont want to contaminate a strangers car with the same germs that made you ill. In a similar vein, if your bodily fluids arent under control, thats not fair to your driverand you could get charged a damage fee ($250 for Lyft, unspecified for Uber).

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What do rideshare drivers make of this? Its really circumstantial, Neil, an Uber driver in San Jose, California, told me. He added that he could simply cancel the ride upon arriving to pick up the passenger and witnessing the situation if he were uncomfortable with what was happening or the liability it might put on him as a contractor. Another driver posted on an UberPeople.net forum, I had a guy with a busted leg call me. The bone was almost through the skinit was bad. I called 911 for him. But an Alexandria, Virginiabased driver aired a different view, writing, As long as they arent puking or bleeding  whatever hop in. I just mark it as a good deed against karma.

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These standards leave several less-urgent, not-a-biohazard ailments where taking Uber or Lyft makes sense, such as an eye, foot, or hand injury that renders you unable to drive; foreign bodies; a small wound with controlled bleeding; or a noncontagious infection (think a urinary tract infection or cellulitis).

When Jose Hernandez, a friend of mine, was in college, he got into a bike accident, conveniently right in front of EMTs attending to a different call. After he cleared a concussion test, the EMTs let him call an Uber. I was planning on going to the hospital, but I didnt really know the details of my insurance, Hernandez explained. He got to the ER for less than $20 and said hed do the same in the future, hands down.

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The $20 fee helps underscore why people tend to resist the ambulance ride. Even with insurance, theyre pricey. Costs vary by region and level of care, but the professionals I interviewed from coast to coast gave me ballparks between $450 and $5,000. After insurance, that number decreases (in one example, a bill went from $3,000 to $800), although the ambulance provider may or may not be in-network with your insurance. (If its not, you still wont get billed the ticket price, as insurance and ambulance companies will have negotiated a predetermined out-of-pocket rate.) But, University of Texas researcher Langabeer cautioned, its unwise to make the decision based solely on price or other deterrents like embarrassment.

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If youre on the fence, the experts recommended calling 911, especially since patients often misgauge a situations urgency. If an ambulance ride ultimately isnt necessary, the paramedics may release you at the scene (after checking vitals, mental state, and ensuring youre aware of your condition). You might also consider contacting a primary care physician or nurse to determine the best mode of transportation.

Ultimately, even doctors I interviewed admitted the ambulance system, with its wallet-draining prices, is far from perfect and thought ride-sharing apps could have a place in health care innovation. In the meantime, what were left with is: In dire or gray-area medical straits, you should still call 911. But they might just say that you can take an Uber.Business ownership is challenging, isnt it?

There is so much involved in building a successful enterprise, and it seems almost impossible to keep up with it all. However, if youre not on top of the important aspects of entrepreneurship, the likelihood of failure increases.

People You Need When Starting a Business

But it doesnt have to be overwhelming.

If you have the right people in your life, it will be easier to build the business you have always dreamed of. This post will show you five types of people you need to grow a thriving business.

An Experienced Attorney

Many entrepreneurs make the mistake of trying to handle the legal aspect of business ownership on their own. This is a mistake. Having an attorney who practices corporate law is essential to the success of any business.

Sometimes, business owners mistakenly believe they only need an attorney when something bad happens. However, the primary reason to hire an attorney is to make sure these things dont happen in the first place. Legal professionals can help you make sure you dont fall into one of the many legal pitfalls that are present when youre operating a business.

You might think youre saving money by not paying a retainer to a law firm, but the reality is youre running the risk of losing more money in the long run. If you happen to accidentally violate a law, or if you are on the wrong end of a lawsuit, its likely that you will be spending a large sum of money to rectify the issue. However, if you have an attorney that can advise you along the way, you can avoid making the mistakes that other business owners make.

A Digital Marketing Manager

If you want to build a viable business, you need customers. If you want customers, you need to market your business effectively. While traditional marketing methods can still be effective, its important to make sure that you are creating a strong online presence for your company.

This is where a digital marketing manager comes in.

An experienced marketing professional can help your business grow, if you hire the right person. They can help you enhance your social media marketing campaigns in a way that attracts more visitors to your website. An effective marketer will know how to optimize your website so that it ranks higher on search engines like Google or Bing. Additionally, they can help you create engaging content that will enable you to build authority and earn the trust of your prospects and customers.

As you know, its an online world now. A viable web presence is critical to the success of any business. If you want to stand out from the competition, you need to have someone on your side who knows how to ensure that your brand is in front of your potential customers.

A Tax Professional

Lets face it. Nobody likes dealing with taxes  except accountants! This is why you must have an experienced tax professional who can help you start and maintain your business the right way.

Its extremely important that you are managing your finances as effectively as possible. The last thing you want is an audit from the IRS. A tax professional can:

Help you navigate tax laws.

Advise you on choosing the right business structure.

Help you manage your cash flow.

Accountants are also helpful when it comes to managing your payroll, which is extremely important. Tax professionals can be expensive, but in the long run, it could prove more expensive NOT to hire one.

A Web Designer

A strong online presence is essential to the growth of your business. While its important to make sure you are marketing your company effectively, you must also focus on what your websites visitors will see when they come to your home page.

A skilled web designer can set up your website in a way that makes visitors want to buy from you. This is important. If you have a shoddy, poorly-designed website, it sends the message that your company is not reliable.

Depending on the type of business you run, you might be able to design your website by yourself. Services like Wix and Squarespace make it easy. But in most cases, its best to hire professionals who know how to build clean and attractive websites.

An Enthusiastic Cheerleader

This could prove to be one of the most overlooked needs you have as an entrepreneur. Simply put, you need someone who is rooting for you. As a business owner, you will run into numerous obstacles. You will deal with plenty of headaches.

Sometimes you may even feel like giving up. This is why you need a cheerleader.

The great thing about this is that it wont cost you any money! It can be a friend, family member or a mentor. The point is: you need to be around people who believe in you  individuals who will give you encouragement when you feel like youre failing.

Heres a word of warning: dont rely on yes men. Sure, you want people who will cheer you on, but you also need allies who will bring you back to reality when needed. The best combination is a person who can do both. Having someone who can keep you grounded while still cheering you on is a huge asset to your business and your sanity.

Final Thoughts

Starting a business isnt easy. It requires a lot of effort and grit. But if you have the right people around you, it will be easier to build the business of your dreams.

Make sure you engage with professionals who can help you make your business a success. Its an essential component of building a business.Commercial real estate platform Truss is trying to level the playing field for small businesses looking for office space.

Find Small Business Office Space Online

The company has now listed 100 million square feet of office space on its website for small businesses to lease in five major markets: Chicago, Washington DC, Dallas, Houston and Austin. And it plans on adding another city to that list later this year.

For small businesses, Truss stands out from other real estate platforms and brokers because of its focus on spaces under 10,000 square feet. These spaces make up over 85 percent of commercial leases, according to Truss. But the smallest leases dont get a lot of attention from the broker community because they dont generate huge commissions.

Tom Smith, co-founder of Truss, said in an email to Small Business Trends, Brokers have commission-based jobs so they make more money on larger spaces. Put another way, brokers feel that helping SMBs find spaces under 10,000 square feet is a waste of time and effort, and the segment is therefore left underserved.

In addition to small space listings, the company is also aiming to make the process of finding space more accessible for entrepreneurs who dont have real estate teams behind them. The company is achieving that goal in part thanks to a chatbot named Vera who communicates using real world language rather than industry jargon. This is supposed to help businesses better determine the actual monthly costs of a lease rather than leaving them to try and figure it out based on a price per square foot or triple net estimate.

Smith says, Veras main role is to gather and analyze tenant requirements and preferences to create a list of properties that match the users needs. Business owners are then able to virtually tour available spaces without leaving their desk. These 3D tours coupled with the platforms total price transparency cuts down the number of property tours by 50 percent, ultimately speeding up the process for everyone involved.

According to Smith, the platform can benefit any business looking for space under 10,000 square feet in the available markets. But currently, tech firms, marketing firms, startups and satellite offices of larger corporations make up most of the companys customer base.

You can sign up for an account on the companys website for free. Truss does get paid a commission by the landlord when they place a tenant in a space. But Smith says they share part of that rebate with the tenant so small businesses end up with more money in their pockets.Small businesses looking for a DIY online presence can now have pre-built website sections that dont skimp on customizable features like video and parallax images creating an illusion of depth.

Zoho recently launched some additional features on its DIY website builder, Zoho Sites. This latest version also has customizable page elements supporting other design tools and drag and drop templates for everything from newsletters to headers and images.

Best of all, you dont need a coding background or expensive IT department to get started.

Zohos Chief Evangelist Raju Vegesna told Small Business Trends how the new tweaks cater to small businesses looking to expand their online footprint.

One Million Websites

Establishing an online presence is an essential part of any business and Zoho Sites lets you do that very easily without the technical knowhow, Vegesna said. We have over one million websites hosted on Zoho Sites and this new revamp will provide more flexibility for businesses to create and customize their website without much effort, yet make it more powerful.

New Zoho Sites Updates

Other features that streamline the web building process for small businesses include a quick customization pop up.

Pop Ups

Users get the added advantage of pop ups that offer both design and layout options when they add an element or section as they build a website.

Streamline the Web Building Process

Privacy is ensured as users can manage their websites visibility both inside the organization and in its public facing presence. Another big advantage for the small business seeking to build its own website without a lot of fuss is the streamlined user interface.

The new Zoho Sites pairs a cleaner design with more efficiency. For example, all the integrations with Zoho SalesIQ, Zoho CRM, Zoho PageSense , Zoho Campaigns and third party applications are just a click away.

Vegesna explains how Zoho added a visual element to make these integrations easier.

One of the challenges with integrations is knowing the technical aspects on how to make two apps talk to each other. Zoho Flow makes integration between multiple apps easy without getting into the technical aspects. It offers a visual builder to build integration flows between apps without putting [in] lot of effort.

The new Zoho Sites is now available. Theres a free version although you can get more functionality with the paid subscription that starts at $5 per site per month for the Essential Plan. The Professional Plan is $12 per month and $20 gets your small business the full-featured Ultimate Plan. And you can see their website for more details.

Zohos headquarters are in Pleasanton, California and Chennai, India. Their products have 30 million users worldwide and they have over 5,000 employees.Robert Gilpin, R.I.P. - The Washington Post : His greatest book was written in 1981, but the main theory in it is perhaps more trenchant now...Dating agencies for millionaires are expensive but successful

Katarina Nemcova founded an agency that matches people willing to spend a thousand euros for one date.

Money can be both an advantage and obstacle when it comes to love. (Source: Fotolia)

The Oriental carpet on the old parquet floor looks like something you would find in a person's living room. The room, however, is just a secret bar in downtown Bratislava where tourists who are willing to spend meet with locals who can earn the price of a cocktail- seven euros - in just minutes. Money is certainly not a problem for the people here.

Katarina Nemcova, a Slovak woman, enters the bar through a wooden cabinet and looks around. All tables are full, there is just a man in his forties sitting alone at the bar. White shirt, two top buttons undone  his day must have been hard. Katarina leans over to ask the barman whether there are any free seats, and meanwhile, she studies the hand of the gentleman at the bar. No wedding ring. She starts a conversation.

Good evening, sir, she begins. Sorry for my boldness but I cannot help asking you: how come such a nice and charismatic gentleman is sitting alone here at the bar this evening? Katarina smiles humbly at him.

Is that your business? he is taken by surprise.

Sorry, I havent introduced myself yet, she looks right into his eyes and remembers the words of her former boss who claimed that if a potential client says "no", it does not necessarily mean no. She continues.

My name is Katarina Nemcova, and I can find you the woman you are looking for and need, she comes right to the point, and gives him her business card. If you had a wedding ring, I wouldnt dare talk to you. We dont do these kind of things. Are you in a relationship?

Do I look single? he asks while she muses: another typical male ego game.

Well... you surely look like someone who will not stay single for long, she avoids answering, sits at his side and continues talking.

Admission fee of 1,200

12. Feb 2018 at 11:29 | By Mario SmykalMinister Gajdos defends state of military procurement at special parliamentary session

The fact that the extraordinary session concerning the delayed modernisation of the Slovak military even took place implies dissatisfaction and disagreements in the ruling coalition.

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Not just opposition MPs, but the lawmakers of the ruling coalition have criticised the delays in the modernisation of the Slovak army.

Most of the planned procurements are already obsolete before they are delivered and military equipment and machinery have reached the end of their lifespan. Because of these concerns, opposition defence experts suggested an extraordinary parliamentary session for February 9.

Read also:

Read also: Defence Minister cancels radar purchase Read more

At the session, which lasted for eight hours, the former defence minister, Lubomir Galko (SaS) suggested that the ministry has been using delaying tactics in replacing military equipment with the ulterior motive of using Russian machinery  in this case fighter planes  for as long as possible.

Galko can be assured that the Defence Ministry and its administration work to the benefit of the Slovak people and Slovakia and that there is no other position to take, Minister Peter Gajdos (an SNS nominee) reiterated, as quoted by Sme.

SNS supports Gajdos

The SNS stands firmly behind its nominee, Gajdos, and although the SNS leader and Parliamentary Speaker Andrej Danko admits that the army is in a pitiful condition as investments in this area have been neglected for many years, he added for a TV talk show on February 11 that the opposition is putting on an unprofessional theatrical performance when it comes to military purchasing. He said that their criticism is not constructive, they only argue with information gleaned from the internet.

Experts and coalition politicians also have criticisms

However, several politicians from the ruling coalition, including the State Secretary for Defence Robert Ondrejcsak of Most-Hid, have joined in the criticism. Also, the Head of the Slovak Security Policy Institute, Jaroslav Nad said, as quoted by Sme, that the partners of the SNS in the ruling coalition are no longer in favour of the steps being taken to modernise the Slovak armed forces. Although the recent parliamentary session ended without the resolution slamming the SNS for a non-transparent and non-systemic way of modernising of the army, the fact that such a session could take place in the first place, especially at the behest of the opposition which is usually refused, is an important sign, since Smer could have easily blocked this, the daily wrote on February 12.

Read also:

Read also: Slovakia saved money on late Spartan aircraft Read more

Ex-defence minister Martin Glvac (the ruling Smer party) intends to ask the parliamentary Defence and Security Committee, when they meet, about the purchase of military radars that he announced when he was at the ministry, according to Nad. The Defence Ministry cancelled the order when led by the SNS, a minor coalition partner.

12. Feb 2018 at 13:24 | Compiled by Spectator staffPoll: how much trust do you place in politicians?

Fico fared poorly when his name was taken from a list but was voted second most-trusted politician in a parallel poll, when respondents were asked to spontaneously name the three most trustworthy.

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A recent poll by the Focus agency, conducted between January 23rd and 28th on a sample of 1,012 respondents asked, To what degree do you trust or mistrust the following politicians?

The results show that the greatest popular trust is still placed with President Andrej Kiska as a total of 52.6 percent believe him and 44 percent mistrust him. He is followed by Speaker of Parliament Andrej Danko, SNS (33.2 percent trust) and his deputy in the parliament, Bela Bugar, Most-Hid (31 percent trust) the Sme daily wrote on February 10.

Following the coalition politicians, the opposition SaS-party leader Richard Sulik was given 30.7 percent trust and opposition Sme Rodina /WE Are Family chairman, Boris Kollar, received 30.5 percent. Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer) follows all these with 29.5 percent of respondents trusting him and 67.7 percent showing mistrust.

Focus poll: the least-trusted Slovak politicians

Fico is the third least trusted politician coming above extremist Marian Kotleba, LSNS (13.6-percent trust/82.4 percent mistrust) and opposition OLaNO-party leader Igor Matovic (26.5 percent trust/70 percent mistrust). The chairman of the extra-parliamentary Christian Democratic Movement (KDH) Alojz Hlina enjoys the trust of 18.9 percent and the mistrust of 67 percent of the respondents.

A simultaneous poll by Focus, where people were asked to spontaneously name the three most trustworthy politicians, had different results, the Pravda daily wrote on February 10.

Although this poll was still led by Kiska (23.4 %), it had Fico ranking second (23 %).

12. Feb 2018 at 13:48 | Compiled by Spectator staffSlovakia gets its first medal at winter Olympics: biathlete Kuzmina wins silver

After a disappointing start on February 10, Anastasiya Kuzmina won silver in an exciting pursuit race.

Anastasiya Kuzmina thanks her fans after silver victory on February 12. (Source: SITA)

Despite having to do four extra rounds, Slovak biathlete Anastasiya Kuzmina came second in the 10-kilometres pursuit race at the Winter Olympics in Peyong-Chang on February 12.

The clear winner was German, Laura Dahlmeier and third, just 2 tenths of a second behind Kuzmina was Frances Anais Bescond, the Sme daily wrote.

Another Slovak biathlete, Paulina Fialkova, came 38th.

Read also:

Read also: PyeongChang: Slovaks have high hopes for their athletes Read more

Bad start, good finish

Thank you for still liking me, Kuzmina said after her triumph, commenting on her failed sprint race on February 10.

She could have fared better also on Monday but she missed four targets and had to do four extra rounds.

I came here to repeat a golden victory in the sprint but in the end, I repeated the silver from the pursuit race in Vancouver Kuzmina commented, as quoted by Sme.

Currently, she holds two gold (from Vancouver and Sochi) and two silver Olympic medals.

I am unbelievably thankful and happy, the Slovak biathlete said for the public-service TV broadcaster RTVS, adding that she put everything into the race and she hopes to have brought joy to Slovak audiences.

Kuzmina faces two more individual races and two relay races in Peyong-Chang. She believes she is again in the run for medals.

There is still time left, she commented for RTVS. The Olympics are just beginning.

12. Feb 2018 at 14:14 | Compiled by Spectator staffAnti-monopoly authority fines Bratislava airport for VIP fees

The airport accepts the fine and will pay it in due time.

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Slovakias Anti-monopoly Office (PMU) has fined the M. R. Stefanik Airport in Bratislava 127,000 for misusing its dominant position on the market. In July 2016, the airport introduced a fee of 49 ex VAT for every passenger for the use of the General Aviation Terminal, regardless of whether they used the full VIP Service provided there or not. The airport has accepted the fine and will pay it.

The anti-competitive practice had to do with how the fee for above-standard services was set. It was not linked to the actual use of the services by passengers, but was instead connected to people merely entering the General Aviation Terminal, while the entrance into the terminal had already been subject to another fee, said PMU spokesperson Adriana Olsavska as cited by the TASR newswire. This resulted in above-standard VIP services being paid for by customers who were not interested in these services and did not use them.

Read also:

Read also: Bratislava airport has new VIP terminal Read more

The proceedings were concluded on August 31, 2017, with the airport subsequently asking the PMU for a reconciliatory settlement. The PMU eventually agreed to settle the issue and reduced the fine by 30 percent to the final 127,000.

Bratislava airport spokesperson Veronika Sevcikova said that the board of directors of Bratislava airport acknowledges the PMUs verdict and will pay the fine in due time.

Sevcikova explained that the VIP terminal was introduced at Bratislava Airport in response to Slovakias presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2016. The charge in question included unlimited stay at the terminal, full assistance with the check-in and check-out processes, refreshments, assistance with luggage, free parking in front of the terminal and free wifi connections.

The M. R. Stefanik Airport management decided that as of September 1st 2017, the special VIP services would be provided for general aviation clients and clients of private flights only if they asked for them, said Sevcikova. As a result of the settlement, passing through the General Aviation Terminal is now free of charge.

12. Feb 2018 at 23:50 | Compiled by Spectator staffFlu epidemic hits Slovakia

Even those vaccinated are not fully immune.

Even the freezing weather has not stopped the flu epidemic coming to Slovakia. The Public Health Authority (UVZ) confirmed that it is here last week. The greatest number of people infected are in the Nitra and Kosice regions. The following weeks will show whether the epidemic has already peaked or whether the number of reported cases will increase.

The number of cases is above the epidemic threshold in each region, said Jan Mikas main public health officer, on February 9, as cited by the TASR newswire.

Last week almost 19,000 people were infected with the flu. This was an increase of 15.3 percent compared with the previous week.

The 15-19-years age group have been most frequently infected. The epidemic has already closed more than 300 schools across Slovakia. Also, several hospitals have banned visits.

As with other European countries, the influenza B virus seems to be affecting Slovaks the most.

Health officers have admitted for the Sme daily that experts did not predict the best match to formulate the vaccine for this year. There are four species of influenza viruses - A, B, C, and D - and seasonal flu is caused by influenza A and B. Every year, different strains of these viruses circulate and it is necessary to produce new vaccines for them to be effective. The lower match with the strains that are currently circulating means that the vaccine is less effective than usual.

Another factor that has contributed to the epidemic in Slovakia is the number of people who have been vaccinated against flu. This year only 4.4 percent of the population have received the vaccine.

12. Feb 2018 at 23:39 | Compiled by Spectator staffWells Fargo & Co. is a diversified, community-based financial services company. It is engaged in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance. It firm operates through the following segments: Community Banking, Wholesale Banking, Wealth & Investment Management, and Other. The Community Banking segment offers complete line of diversified financial products and services for consumers and small businesses including checking and savings accounts, credit and debit cards, and automobile, student, and small business lending. The Wholesale Banking segment provides financial solutions to businesses across the United States and globally. The Wealth and Investment Management segment includes personalized wealth management, investment and retirement products and services to clients across U.S. based businesses. The Other segment refers to the products of WIM customers served through community banking distribution channels. The company was founded by Henry Wells and William G. Fargo on March 18, 1852 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA.

Read MorePAA Natural Gas Storage, L.P. is engaged in the business of acquisition, development, ownership, operation and commercial management of natural gas storage facilities. As of December 31, 2012, the Company owned and operated three natural gas storage facilities located in Louisiana, Mississippi and Michigan. The Company also leases storage capacity and pipelines transportation capacity from third parties. The Company provides natural gas storage services to a mix of customers, including local gas distribution company's liquefied natural gas (LNG), electric utilities, pipelines, direct industrial users, electric power generators, marketers, producers, LNG exporters and affiliates of such entities. In December 31, 2013, Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (Plains) completed the merger of PAA Natural Gas Storage, L.P with a wholly owned subsidiary of Plains, with Plains surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of PAA.

Read MoreGoldman Sachs Group, Inc. engages in global investment banking, securities, and investment management, which provides financial services. It operates through the following business segments: Investment Banking, Global Markets, Asset Management, and Consumer & Wealth Management. The Investment Banking segment serves public and private sector clients around the world and provides financial advisory services, help companies raise capital to strengthen and grow their businesses and provide financing to corporate clients. The Global Markets segment serves its clients who buy and sell financial products, funding and manage risk. The Asset Management segment provides investment services to help clients preserve and grow their financial assets. The Consumer & Wealth Management segment helps clients to achieve their individual financial goals by providing a wealth advisory and banking services. The company was founded by Marcus Goldman in 1869 and is headquartered in New York, NY.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of BorgWarner: B80 Italia S.r.l., BERU AG, BW El Salto S.A. De C.V., BWA Receivables Corporation, BWA Turbo Systems Holding LLC, Borg Warner Europe Holdings (PDS) B. V., BorgWarner (China) Investment Co. Ltd., BorgWarner (Reman) Holdings L.L.C., BorgWarner (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner Aftermarket Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Alternators Inc., BorgWarner Arden LLC, BorgWarner Arnstadt RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Asia Inc., BorgWarner Automotive Asia Limited, BorgWarner Automotive Components (Beijing) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Jiangsu) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Wuhan) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Brasil Ltda., BorgWarner Chungju Co. LLC, BorgWarner Comercial e Distribuidora de Pecas para Veiculos Automotores Ltda., BorgWarner Comercializadora PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Componentes PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Cooling Systems (India) Private Limited, BorgWarner Cooling Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Diversified Transmission Products Services Inc., BorgWarner Drivetrain Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Drivetrain Management Services de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Drivetrain de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Electric Motors L.L.C., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems Holding LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Emissions Systems LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Portugal Unipessoal LDA, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Spain S.L.U., BorgWarner Emissions Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Emissions Talegaon Private Limited, BorgWarner Engineering Ketsch RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Engineering Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Esslingen GmbH, BorgWarner Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Europe Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Gateshead Limited, BorgWarner Germany Holding GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Holding Services GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REH GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REM GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, BorgWarner Global Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Heidelberg I RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg II RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg REH GmbH, BorgWarner Heidelberg REM GmbH, BorgWarner Holding Inc., BorgWarner Holdings Limited, BorgWarner Hungary Kft., BorgWarner IT Services Europe GmbH, BorgWarner India Holdings Inc., BorgWarner Investment Holding Inc., BorgWarner Ithaca LLC, BorgWarner Ketsch Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Ketsch REH GmbH, BorgWarner Ketsch REM GmbH, BorgWarner Kft., BorgWarner Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Korea Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Korea Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Korea LLC, BorgWarner Limited, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg GmbH, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf REH GmbH, BorgWarner Markdorf REM GmbH, BorgWarner Massachusetts Inc., BorgWarner Mauritius Holdings Ltd., BorgWarner Mexico Holding BV, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings II LLC, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Morse Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Morse Systems Italy S.r.l., BorgWarner Morse Systems Japan K.K., BorgWarner Morse Systems Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Muggendorf RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner NW Inc., BorgWarner Netherlands Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Oroszlany Kft., BorgWarner PDS (Anderson) L.L.C., BorgWarner PDS (Changnyeong) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Indiana) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Livonia) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Ochang) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner PDS (USA) Inc., BorgWarner PDS Brasil Produtos Automotivos Ltda., BorgWarner PDS Irapuato S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Mexico Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Technologies L.L.C., BorgWarner Poland Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Pyongtaek LLC, BorgWarner Romeo Power LLC, BorgWarner Rzeszow Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Shenglong (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner South Asia LLC, BorgWarner Southborough Inc., BorgWarner Spain Holding S.L.U, BorgWarner Sweden AB, BorgWarner Systems Lugo S.r.l., BorgWarner Thermal Systems Inc., BorgWarner Thermal Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems Beijing Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Tralee Ltd., BorgWarner Transmission Products LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Arnstadt GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Korea LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Tulle S.A.S., BorgWarner Trustees Limited, BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems France S.A.S., BorgWarner Turbo Systems Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems LLC, BorgWarner Turbo Systems Worldwide Headquarters GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Turbo and Emissions Systems de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner UK Financing Ltd., BorgWarner UK Holding and Services Ltd., BorgWarner US Holding LLC, BorgWarner USA Industries L.L.C., BorgWarner United Transmission Systems Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Waterloo Inc., BorgWarner Wrexham Limited, Cascadia Motion LLC, Creon Insurance Agency Limited, Delphi Technologies, Dytech ENSA, Gustav Wahler GmbH u. Co. KG, Haldex, Kuhlman LLC, Kysor Europe Limited, M. & M. Knopf Auto Parts L.L.C., NSK-Warner (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., NSK-Warner K.K., NSK-Warner Mexico S.A. de C.V, NSK-Warner U.S.A. Inc., New PDS Corp., Old Remco Holdings L.L.C., Old Remco International Holdings L.L.C., Remy International, SeohanWarner Turbo Systems LLC, Sevcon, Sevcon New Energy Technology (Hubei) Company Limited, and Transmission Systems AutoForm LLC.Wall Street analysts have given Enel Generacion Chile a "N/A" rating, but there may be better buying opportunities in the stock market. Some of MarketBeat's past winning trading ideas have resulted in 5-15% weekly gains. MarketBeat just released five new stock ideas, but Enel Generacion Chile wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.The following companies are subsidiares of Marsh & McLennan Companies: 8WORKS INC., 8WORKS LTD, A. Constantinidi & CIA. S.C., A.C.N. 000 951 146 Pty Limited, A.C.N. 001 572 961 Pty Limited, A.C.N. 076 935 683 Pty Limited, A.C.N. 102 322 574 Pty Limited, ACE Insurance Agents Limited, ACE Insurance Consultants Limited, ACE Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers Limited, AD Corretora de Seguros, AFCO Premium Acceptance Inc., AFCO Premium Credit LLC, Access Equity Enhanced Fund GP LLC, Admiral Holdings Limited, Agnew Higgins Pickering & Co. (Bermuda) Ltd, Aldgate Investments Limited, Aldgate Trustees Ltd, Alexander Forbes Group Holdings Limited, Alpha Consultants Limited, Alta SA, Altius Real Assets (GP) LLC, Amal Insurance Brokers Limited (in liquidation), Anda Insurance Agencies Pte Ltd, AssetVal Pty Ltd, Assur Conseils Marsh S.A., Assurance Capital Corporation, Assurance Services Corporation, Australian Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd, Australian World Underwriters Pty Ltd., BBPS Limited, Barney & Barney Orange County LLC, Beaumonts (Leeds) Limited (in liquidation), Beaumonts Insurance Brokers Limited (in liquidation), Beaumonts Insurance Services Limited, Beneficios Integrales Oportunos SA, Benefitfocus Inc., Blue Marble Micro Limited, Blue Marble Microinsurance Inc., Bluefin, Bluefin Insurance Group Limited, Bluefin Insurance Services Limited, Boulder Claims LLC, Bowring (Bermuda) Investments Ltd., Bowring Marine Limited, Bowring Marsh (Bermuda) Ltd., Bowring Marsh (Hong Kong) Limited, Bowring Marsh Asia Pte. Ltd., Bowring Marsh Corretora de Resseguros Ltda., Bowring Marsh Limited, Broderick Piller Pty Ltd, Broker 2 Broker Limited, BuildPay LLC, Burke Ford Trustees (Leicester) Limited, C.T. Bowring Limited, CMC-Belgibo NV, CPRM Limited, CPSG Partners LLC, Carpenter Marsh Fac Chile Corredores de Reaseguros Limitada, Carpenter Marsh Fac Colombia Corredores de Reaseguros S.A., Carpenter Marsh Fac Peru Corredores de Reaseguros S.A.C., Carpenter Marsh Fac Re LLC, Carpenter Turner Cyprus Ltd, Carpenter Turner S.A., Cascade International Holdings C.V., Cascade Regional Holdings Limited, Central Insurance Services Limited, Charter Risk Management Services LLC, Chartwell Healthcare Limited, Chronos Insurance Brokers Pty Limited, Claims and Recovery Management (Australia) Pty Limited, Clark Thomson Insurance Brokers Limited, Client Provide Limited, Colombian Insurance Broking Wholesale Limited, Consultores 2020 C.A., Cronin & Co Insurance Services Limited, DVA - Deutsche Verkehrs-Assekuranz-Vermittlungs GmbH, Dawson Insurance, DeLima Marsh S.A. - Los Corredores de Seguros S.A., Dovetail Insurance Corp., Dovetail Insurance Corp., Dovetail Managing General Agency Corporation, Dovetail Technology Service India Private Limited, Draw Connect Limited, Draw Create Limited, Draw Group London Limited, Eagle & Crown Limited, Echelon Australia Pty Limited, Echelon Claims Consultants Sdn Bhd, Echelon New Zealand Limited, EnBW Versicherungs Vermittlung GmbH, Encompass Insurance Agency Pty Ltd., English Pension Trustees Limited, Epsilon (US) Insurance Company, Epsilon Insurance Company Ltd., Eustis Insurance & Benefits, Evolution Management Ltd, Exchange Insurance Services Limited (in liquidation), Exmoor Management Company Limited, Faulkner & Flynn LLC, Freedom Trust Services Limited, GC Genesis LLC, GCube Insurance Services Inc, GCube Underwriting Limited, Gama Consultores Associados Ltda., Gem Insurance Company Limited, Global Premium Finance Company, GrECo International Holding AG, Gracechurch Trustees Limited, Gresham Pension Trustees Limited, Group Promoters Pty Limited, Guy Carpenter & Cia (Mexico) S.A. de C.V., Guy Carpenter & Cia. S.A., Guy Carpenter & Co. Labuan Ltd., Guy Carpenter & Company AB, Guy Carpenter & Company Corredores de Reaseguros Limitada, Guy Carpenter & Company Corretora de Resseguros Ltda., Guy Carpenter & Company GmbH, Guy Carpenter & Company LLC, Guy Carpenter & Company Limited, Guy Carpenter & Company Limited, Guy Carpenter & Company Ltd./Guy Carpenter & Compagnie Ltee, Guy Carpenter & Company Participacoes Ltda., Guy Carpenter & Company Peru Corredores de Reaseguros S.A., Guy Carpenter & Company Private Limited, Guy Carpenter & Company Proprietary Limited, Guy Carpenter & Company Pty. Ltd., Guy Carpenter & Company S.A., Guy Carpenter & Company S.A. (Uruguay), Guy Carpenter & Company S.A.S., Guy Carpenter & Company S.r.l., Guy Carpenter (Middle East) Limited, Guy Carpenter Bermuda Ltd., Guy Carpenter Broking Inc., Guy Carpenter Colombia Corredores de Reaseguros Ltda., Guy Carpenter Insurance Brokers (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Guy Carpenter Japan Inc., Guy Carpenter Mexico Intermediario de Reaseguro S.A. de C.V., Guy Carpenter Reasurans Brokerligi Anonim Sirketi, HAPIP GP 2009 LLC, HAPIP GP LLC, HSBC Insurance Brokers International (Abu Dhabi) LLC (in liquidation), Hamilton Bond Limited, Hansen International Limited, Hayward Aviation Limited, INSIA Europe SE, INSIA SK s.r.o., INSIA a.s., INSURANCE BROKERS OF NIGERIA LIMITED, IRC Asia Insurance Brokers Limited, InSolutions Limited, Industrial Risks Protection Consultants, Ingeseg S. A., Ingeseg S.A., Insbrokers Ltda., InsurTech Alliance LLC, Insure Direct (Brokers) LLC, Insure Direct (Brokers) LLC [BAHRAIN BRANCH], Insure Direct - Jardine Lloyd Thompson Limited, International Catastrophe Insurance Managers LLC, International Loss Control Services Limited, International Risk Consultants (Asia) Limited, Invercol Limited, Irish Pensions Trust Limited, Isosceles Insurance (Barbados) Limited, Isosceles Insurance Company Limited, Isosceles Insurance Ltd, Isosceles PCC Limited, J&H Marsh & McLennan Limited, J.W. Terrill Benefit Administrators Inc., JI Holdings Limited, JIB Group Holdings Limited, JIB Group Limited, JIB Holdings (Pacific) Limited, JIB Overseas Holdings Limited, JIB UK Holdings Limited, JL Marine Insurance-Brokers GmbH & Co. KG, JLM Verwaltungs GmbH, JLT (Insurance Brokers) Limited, JLT Actuaries and Consultants Limited, JLT Advisory Limited, JLT Affinity Colombia Solutions SAS, JLT Agencies Limited, JLT Asesorias Ltda, JLT Asia Holdings BV, JLT Asia Shared Services Sdn Bhd, JLT Belgibo, JLT Benefit Consultants Limited, JLT Benefit Solutions Limited, JLT Benefit Solutions SA (Pty) Ltd, JLT Bermuda Ltd, JLT Brasil Holdings Participacoes Ltd, JLT Chile Holdings SpA, JLT Colombia Retail Limited, JLT Colombia Wholesale Limited, JLT Consultants & Actuaries Limited, JLT EB Holdings Limited, JLT EB Services Limited, JLT Employee Benefits Holding Company (PTY) LTD, JLT Employee Benefits SA (Pty) Ltd, JLT Financial Planning Limited, JLT France Holdings, JLT Group Services Pty Limited, JLT Holdings (Barbados) Ltd, JLT Holdings (NZ) Limited, JLT Independent Insurance Brokers Private Limited, JLT Insurance Agencies Limited, JLT Insurance Brokers Co. Limited, JLT Insurance Brokers Co. Limited ( Shanghai Branch), JLT Insurance Brokers Co. Limited (Beijing Branch), JLT Insurance Brokers Co. Limited (Guangzhou Branch), JLT Insurance Brokers Ireland Limited, JLT Insurance Brokers SA, JLT Insurance Group Holdings Ltd, JLT Insurance Management Malta Limited, JLT Intellectual Property Limited, JLT Intellectual Property [UK Branch], JLT Interactive Pte. Ltd., JLT Investment Management Limited, JLT LATAM (Southern Cone) Wholesale Limited, JLT Latin American Holdings Limited, JLT Life Assurance Brokers Limited, JLT Management Services Limited, JLT Marine (Pty) Ltd, JLT Mexico Holdings Limited, JLT Mexico Intermediario de Reaseguro S.A. de C.V., JLT Netherlands BV, JLT Norway AS, JLT PLA, JLT Pension Trustees Limited, JLT Pensions Administration Holdings Limited, JLT Pensions Administration Limited, JLT Peru Reinsurance Solutions Limited, JLT Peru Retail Limited, JLT Peru Wholesale Limited, JLT QFM Services Limited, JLT RE Brasil Administracao e Corretagem de Resseguros Ltda, JLT Re (French Branch), JLT Re (Northern Europe) AB, JLT Re Argentina Corredores de Reaseguros S.A.U., JLT Re Labuan Limited, JLT Re Limited, JLT Re Pty Ltd, JLT Reinsurance Brokers GmbH, JLT Reinsurance Brokers Limited, JLT Reinsurance Brokers Limited [French Branch], JLT Risk Management Limited, JLT Risk Solutions AB, JLT Risk Solutions AB Branch - Germany, JLT SA IB Holdings Company (Pty) Limited, JLT SCK Affinity Administracao e Corretora de Seguros Ltda., JLT SCK Corretora e Administradora de Seguros, JLT Secretaries Limited, JLT Sigorta ve Reasurans Brokerlii A.., JLT Singapore Holdings Pte. Ltd., JLT Specialty France, JLT Specialty Insurance Broker A/S, JLT Specialty Limited, JLT Specialty Limited [DUBAI BRANCH], JLT Specialty Pte. Ltd., JLT Towner Insurance Management (Anguilla) Limited, JLT Trust Services (Barbados) Ltd, JLT Trustees (Southern) Limited, JLT Trustees Limited, JLT UK Investment Holdings Limited, JLT Vantage Risk and Benefit Consulting Private Limited, JLT Wealth Management Limited, JLT do Brasil Corretagem de Seguros Ltda, JLTPCS Holdings Pte. Ltd., JMIB Holdings BV, JSL Securities Inc., Japan Affinity Marketing Inc., Jardine IBR Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson (Proprietary) Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Asia Pte Ltd, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Australia Pty Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Canada Inc, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group Ltd, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group plc, Jardine Lloyd Thompson India Private Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson India Private Limited (UK Branch Office), Jardine Lloyd Thompson Insurance Consultants Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers Inc., Jardine Lloyd Thompson Ireland Holdings Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Ireland Unlimited Company, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Korea Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Limited [Macao Branch], Jardine Lloyd Thompson PCS (Dubai) Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson PCS Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson PCS Pte Ltd, Jardine Lloyd Thompson PCS SA, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Private Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Pty Limited, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Sdn Bhd, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Valencia y Iragorri Corredores de Seguros SA, Jardine Pension Trustees Ireland Limited, Jardine Risk Consulting Co. Limited, Jardine ShunTak Insurance Brokers Limited, Jardine ShunTak Insurance Brokers Limited [Macao Branch], Jardines PF- Consultoria Em Gestao De Risco Limitada, Jelf, Jelf Commercial Finance Limited, Jelf Financial Planning Limited, Jelf Insurance Brokers Limited, Jelf Limited, Jelf Risk Management Limited, Jelf Wellbeing Limited, John Lampier & Son Ltd, Johnson & Higgins (Bermuda) Limited, Johnson & Higgins Limited, KESSLER & CO AG, Kepler Associates Limited, Kessler & Co Inc., Kessler Consulting Inc., Kessler Prevoyance Inc., Key Underwriting Pty Limited, Kroll, Lambert Brothers Holdings Limited, Lambert Brothers Insurance Brokers (Employee Benefits) Limited, Lambert Brothers Insurance Brokers (Hong Kong) Ltd, Laterlife.com Limited (in liquidation), Lavaretus Underwriting AB, Lavaretus Underwriting AB (BRANCH - Denmark), Libra Insurance Services Limited (in liquidation), Lloyd & Partners Limited, Local Government Insurance Brokers Pty Limited, Lomond Macdonald Limited, Lynch Insurance Brokers Limited, M&M Vehicle L.P., M.P. Bolshaw and Company Limited, MAG JLT SpA, MERCER ALTERNATIVES LIMITED, MM Risk Services Pty Ltd (for dissolution), MMA Mid-Atlantic Employee LLC, MMA Securities LLC, MMB Consultores S.A., MMC (Singapore) Holdings Pte. Ltd., MMC 28 State Street Holdings Inc., MMC Borrower LLC, MMC Brazilian Holdings B.V., MMC Capital Inc., MMC Cascade Regional Holdings LLC, MMC FINANCE (EUROPE) LIMITED, MMC FINANCE HOLDINGS LTD, MMC Finance (Australia) Limited, MMC Finance (Singapore) Limited, MMC France Holdings (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., MMC GP III Inc., MMC Group Services sp. z o.o., MMC Holdings (Australia) Pty Ltd, MMC Holdings (New Zealand) ULC, MMC Holdings (UK) Limited, MMC International Finance (Barbados) SRL, MMC International Holdings LLC, MMC International Limited, MMC International Treasury Centre Limited, MMC Middle East Holdings Limited, MMC Poland Holdings B.V., MMC Realty Inc., MMC Regional Asia Holdings B.V., MMC Regional Caribbean Holdings Ltd., MMC Regional Europe Holdings B.V., MMC Regional LATAM Holdings B.V., MMC Securities (Europe) Limited, MMC Securities LLC, MMC Treasury Holdings (UK) Limited, MMC UK Group Limited, MMC UK Pension Fund Trustee Limited, MMOW Limited, MMRC LLC, MOW Holding LLC, MPIP III GP LLC, MPIP IV GP LLC, MPIP V GP LLC, MPIP VI GP LLC, Mangrove Insurance Europe PCC Limited, Mangrove Insurance Solutions PCC, Mangrove Insurance Solutions PCC Limited, Manoel Management Services Ltd, Marchant McKechnie Insurance Brokers Limited, Marine Aviation & General (London) Limited, Marsh & McLennan (PNG) Limited, Marsh & McLennan Agencies AS, Marsh & McLennan Agencies Limited, Marsh & McLennan Agency A/S, Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC, Marsh & McLennan Agency Limited, Marsh & McLennan Agency Pty Ltd., Marsh & McLennan Argentina SA Corredores de Reaseguros, Marsh & McLennan Colombia S.A., Marsh & McLennan Companies Acquisition Funding Limited, Marsh & McLennan Companies Acquisition Limited, Marsh & McLennan Companies Asia Pacific Treasury Center Limited, Marsh & McLennan Companies BVBA/SPRL, Marsh & McLennan Companies Finance Center (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., Marsh & McLennan Companies France S.A.S., Marsh & McLennan Companies Holdings (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., Marsh & McLennan Companies Inc., Marsh & McLennan Companies Regional Holdings S.a.r.l., Marsh & McLennan Companies Services B.V., Marsh & McLennan Companies UK Limited, Marsh & McLennan Europe S.a.r.l., Marsh & McLennan GP I Inc., Marsh & McLennan Global Broking (Bermuda) Ltd., Marsh & McLennan Holding GmbH, Marsh & McLennan Holdings (Canada) ULC, Marsh & McLennan Holdings Inc., Marsh & McLennan Incorporated (for dissolution), Marsh & McLennan Innovation Centre Holdings II, Marsh & McLennan Innovation Centre Holdings S.a.r.l., Marsh & McLennan Innovation Centre Limited, Marsh & McLennan Insurance Services Limited, Marsh & McLennan Ireland Limited, Marsh & McLennan Management Services (Bermuda) Limited, Marsh & McLennan Risk Capital Holdings Ltd., Marsh & McLennan Servicios S.A. De C.V., Marsh & McLennan Shared Services Canada Limited, Marsh & McLennan Shared Services Corporation, Marsh (Bahrain) Company SPC, Marsh (Beijing) Risk Management Consulting Co. Ltd., Marsh (China) Insurance Brokers Co. Ltd., Marsh (Hong Kong) Limited, Marsh (Insurance Brokers) LLP, Marsh (Insurance Services) Limited, Marsh (Malawi) Limited, Marsh (Middle East) Limited, Marsh (Namibia) (Proprietary) Limited, Marsh (Pty) Ltd, Marsh (Risk Consulting) LLP, Marsh (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Marsh A/S, Marsh AB, Marsh AG, Marsh AS, Marsh Advantage Insurance Holdings Pty Ltd, Marsh Advantage Insurance Pty Ltd., Marsh Africa (Pty) Ltd, Marsh Argentina S.R.L., Marsh Associates (Pty) Ltd, Marsh Austria G.m.b.H., Marsh Aviation Insurance Broking Pty Ltd (for dissolution), Marsh B.V., Marsh Botswana (Proprietary) Limited, Marsh Brockman y Schuh Agente de Seguros y de Fianzas S.A. de C.V., Marsh Broker Japan Inc., Marsh Broker de Asigurare-Reasigurare S.R.L., Marsh Brokers (Hong Kong) Limited, Marsh Brokers Limited, Marsh Canada Limited/Marsh Canada Limitee, Marsh Company Management Services Cayman Ltd., Marsh Compensation Technologies Administration (Pty) Ltd, Marsh Corporate Services (Barbados) Limited, Marsh Corporate Services Isle of Man Ltd, Marsh Corporate Services Limited, Marsh Corporate Services Malta Limited, Marsh Corretora de Seguros Ltda., Marsh EOOD, Marsh Egypt LLC, Marsh Emirates Consultancy LLC, Marsh Emirates Insurance Brokerage LLC, Marsh Employee Benefits Limited, Marsh Employee Benefits Zimbabwe (Private) Ltd, Marsh Eurofinance B.V., Marsh Europe S.A., Marsh FJC International Insurance Brokers Limited, Marsh For Insurance Services S.A.E., Marsh Franco Acra S.A., Marsh GSC Servicos e Administracao de Seguros Ltda., Marsh GmbH, Marsh Holding AB, Marsh Holdings (Pty) Ltd, Marsh India Insurance Brokers Private Limited, Marsh Insurance & Investments LLC, Marsh Insurance Brokers, Marsh Insurance Brokers (Macao) Limited, Marsh Insurance Brokers (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Marsh Insurance Brokers (Private) Limited, Marsh Insurance Brokers AO, Marsh Insurance Brokers Limited, Marsh Insurance Consulting Saudi Arabia (in liquidation), Marsh Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers LLC, Marsh Intermediaries Inc., Marsh International Broking Holdings Limited, Marsh International Holdings II Inc., Marsh International Holdings Inc., Marsh Investment B.V., Marsh Ireland Brokers Limited, Marsh Ireland Brokers Limited (UK Branch), Marsh Ireland Holdings Limited, Marsh Israel (1999) Ltd., Marsh Israel (Holdings) Ltd., Marsh Israel Consultants Ltd., Marsh Israel Insurance Agency Ltd., Marsh Israel International Brokers Ltd. (in liquidation), Marsh JCS Inc., Marsh Japan Inc., Marsh Kft., Marsh Kindlustusmaakler AS, Marsh Korea Inc., Marsh LLC, Marsh LLC Insurance Brokers, Marsh LLC [Ukraine], Marsh Lda., Marsh Limited, Marsh Limited [Fiji], Marsh Limited [New Zealand], Marsh Limited [PNG], Marsh Ltd. [Wisconsin], Marsh Management Services (Bahamas) Ltd., Marsh Management Services (Barbados) Limited, Marsh Management Services (Bermuda) Ltd., Marsh Management Services (Dublin) Limited, Marsh Management Services (Labuan) Limited, Marsh Management Services (MENA) Limited, Marsh Management Services (USVI) Ltd., Marsh Management Services Cayman Ltd., Marsh Management Services Guernsey Limited, Marsh Management Services Inc., Marsh Management Services Isle of Man Limited, Marsh Management Services Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Marsh Management Services Malta Limited, Marsh Management Services Singapore Pte. Ltd., Marsh Management Services Sweden AB, Marsh Marine & Energy AB, Marsh Marine Nederland B.V., Marsh Medical Consulting GmbH, Marsh Mercer Holdings (Australia) Pty Ltd, Marsh Nest Inc., Marsh Oman LLC, Marsh Oy, Marsh PB Co. Ltd., Marsh Philippines Inc., Marsh Privat A.I.E., Marsh Private Client Life Insurance Services, Marsh Pty. Ltd., Marsh Qatar LLC, Marsh RE S.A.C. Corredores de Reaseguros, Marsh Rehder Consultoria S.A. (MRC), Marsh Rehder S.A. Corredores de Seguros, Marsh Resolutions Pty Limited, Marsh Risk Consulting B.V., Marsh Risk Consulting Limitada, Marsh Risk Consulting Ltda., Marsh Risk Consulting S.L., Marsh Risk Consulting Services S.r.L., Marsh Risk and Consulting Services (Pty) Ltd, Marsh S.A. Corredores De Seguros, Marsh S.A. Mediadores de Seguros, Marsh S.A.S., Marsh S.p.A., Marsh SA [Argentina], Marsh SA [Belgium], Marsh SA [Luxembourg], Marsh SA [Uruguay], Marsh SIA, Marsh Saldana Inc., Marsh Saudi Arabia Insurance & Reinsurance Brokers, Marsh Secretarial Services Limited, Marsh Semusa S.A., Marsh Services Limited, Marsh Services Spolka z.o.o., Marsh Sigorta ve Reasurans Brokerligi Anonim Sirketi, Marsh Spolka z.o.o., Marsh Szolgaltato Kft., Marsh Takaful Brokers (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Marsh Treasury Services (Dublin) Limited (in liquidation), Marsh Treasury Services Limited, Marsh Tunisia S.a.r.l., Marsh UK Limited, Marsh USA (India) Inc., Marsh USA Borrower LLC, Marsh USA Inc., Marsh Uganda Limited, Marsh Venezuela C.A. Sociedad de Corretaje de Seguros, Marsh Vietnam Insurance Broking Company Ltd, Marsh Zambia Limited, Marsh Zimbabwe Holdings (Private) Limited, Marsh d.o.o. Beograd, Marsh d.o.o. za posredovanje u osiguranju, Marsh for Insurance Services - Jordan, Marsh i-Connect (Pty) Ltd, Marsh s.r.o., Matthiessen Assurans AB, Mercer (Argentina) S.A., Mercer (Australia) Pty Ltd, Mercer (Austria) GmbH, Mercer (Belgium) SA-NV, Mercer (Canada) Limited/Mercer (Canada) Limitee, Mercer (China) Limited, Mercer (Colombia) Ltda., Mercer (Danmark) A/S, Mercer (Finland) OY, Mercer (France) SAS, Mercer (Hong Kong) Limited, Mercer (Ireland) Limited, Mercer (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Mercer (N.Z.) Limited, Mercer (Nederland) B.V., Mercer (Norge) AS, Mercer (Polska) Sp.z o.o., Mercer (Portugal) Lda, Mercer (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Mercer (Sweden) AB, Mercer (Taiwan) Ltd., Mercer (Thailand) Ltd., Mercer (US) Inc., Mercer Administration Services (Australia) Pty Limited, Mercer Africa Limited, Mercer Agente de Seguros S.A. de C.V., Mercer Asesores de Seguros S.A., Mercer Asesores es Inversion Independientes S.A. de C.V., Mercer Broking Ltd., Mercer Career Unipessoal Lda, Mercer Consultation (Quebec) Ltee., Mercer Consulting (Australia) Pty Ltd, Mercer Consulting (Chile) Limitada, Mercer Consulting (France) SAS, Mercer Consulting (India) Private Limited, Mercer Consulting B.V., Mercer Consulting Group Inc., Mercer Consulting Holdings Sdn. Bhd., Mercer Consulting Limited, Mercer Consulting Middle East Limited, Mercer Consulting S.L.U., Mercer Consulting Venezuela C.A., Mercer Corredores de Seguros Limitada, Mercer Corretora de Seguros Ltda, Mercer Danismanlik Anonim Sirketi, Mercer Deutschland GmbH, Mercer Employee Benefits - Medicacao de Seguros Unipessoal Lda., Mercer Employee Benefits Limited, Mercer Financial Advice (Australia) Pty Ltd, Mercer Financial Services Limited, Mercer Financial Services Limited liability company, Mercer Financial Services Middle East Limited, Mercer Global Investments Europe Limited, Mercer Global Investments Management Limited, Mercer HR Consulting Borrower LLC, Mercer HR Services LLC, Mercer Health & Benefits (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Mercer Health & Benefits Administration LLC, Mercer Health & Benefits LLC, Mercer Holdings Inc., Mercer Holdings Inc. [Philippines], Mercer Human Resource Consulting Ltda, Mercer Human Resource Consulting S.A. de C.V., Mercer ICC Limited, Mercer Investment Consulting Limited, Mercer Investment Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Mercer Investment Solutions (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Mercer Investments (Australia) Limited, Mercer Investments (Hong Kong) Limited, Mercer Investments (Japan) Ltd, Mercer Investments (New Zealand) Limited, Mercer Investments LLC, Mercer Ireland Holdings Limited, Mercer Italia Srl Socio Unico, Mercer Japan Ltd., Mercer Korea Co. Ltd., Mercer LLC, Mercer Limited, Mercer MC Consulting Borrower LLC, Mercer Master Trustees Limited, Mercer Mauritius Ltd., Mercer Oliver Wyman Holding B.V., Mercer Outsourcing (Australia) Pty Ltd, Mercer Outsourcing S.L.U., Mercer Pensionsfonds AG, Mercer Pensionsraadgivning A/S, Mercer Philippines Inc., Mercer Private Investment Partners IV General Partner S.a.r.l., Mercer Private Markets AG, Mercer Private Markets Advisers (US) AG, Mercer Services Poland Sp. z.o.o., Mercer Sigorta Brokerligi Anonim Sirketi, Mercer South Africa (Pty) Limited, Mercer Superannuation (Australia) Limited, Mercer Switzerland Inc., Mercer System Services LLC, Mercer Technology Acquisitions Limited, Mercer Treuhand GmbH, Mercer Trust Company LLC, Mercer Trustees Limited, Mercer WorkforcePro LLC, Mercury Insurance Services Pty Ltd, Moola Systems Limited, Mountlodge Limited, Muir Beddal (Zimbabwe) Limited, NERA Australia Pty. Ltd., NERA Economic Consulting GmbH, NERA Economic Consulting Limited, NERA S.R.L., NERA SAS, NERA UK Limited, NERA do Brasil Ltda. (for dissolution), National Economic Research Associates Inc., NetComp Insurance Corp., Neuburger Noble Lowndes GmbH, Normandy Reinsurance Company Limited, Northern Alliance Brokers Limited (in liquidation), OWL Marine Insurance-Brokers GmbH & Co.KG, OWL Marine Verwaltungs GmbH, Oliver Wyman (Bermuda) Limited, Oliver Wyman (Hong Kong) Limited, Oliver Wyman AB, Oliver Wyman AG, Oliver Wyman Actuarial Consulting Inc., Oliver Wyman B.V., Oliver Wyman Consulting (Shanghai) Ltd, Oliver Wyman Consultoria em Estrategia de Negocios Ltda., Oliver Wyman Energy Consulting Limited, Oliver Wyman FZ-LLC, Oliver Wyman Group KK, Oliver Wyman Inc., Oliver Wyman LLC, Oliver Wyman Limited, Oliver Wyman Limited Liability Company, Oliver Wyman Limited/Oliver Wyman limitee, Oliver Wyman Ltd., Oliver Wyman Pte. Ltd., Oliver Wyman Pty. Ltd., Oliver Wyman S. de R.L. de C.V., Oliver Wyman S.A.S., Oliver Wyman S.L., Oliver Wyman S.r.l., Oliver Wyman SNC, Oliver Wyman SPRL/BVBA, Oliver Wyman Sdn. Bhd., Oliver Wyman Services Limited, Oliver Wyman Servicios S. de R.L. de C.V., Oliver Wyman sp. z o.o., Omega Indemnity (Bermuda) Limited, Organizacion Brockman y Schuh S.A. de C.V., Osbornes Insurances Oxford Limited (in liquidation), PFT Limited, PI Indemnity Company Designated Activity Company, PT JLT Reinsurance Brokers, PT Jardine Lloyd Thompson, PT Marsh Indonesia, PT Marsh Reinsurance Brokers Indonesia, PT Mercer Indonesia, PT Nexus Asia Pacific, PT Oliver Wyman Indonesia, PT Quantum Computing Services, PT Quantum Investments, PT Quantum Support Services, Pallas Marsh Servicos Ltda., Pavilion Alternatives Group (Singapore) PTE. Ltd, Pavilion Financial Corporation Holdings UK Limited, Pavilion U.S. Investments Holdco LLC, Pension Trustees Limited, Pensionsservice Benefit Network Sverige AB, Perils AG, Personal Pension Trustees Limited, Pet Animal Welfare Scheme Limited, Portsoken Trustees (No. 2) Limited, Portsoken Trustees Limited, Potomac Insurance Managers Inc., Premier Pension Trustees Limited, Premium Services Australia Pty Limited, Professional Claims Handling Limited (in liquidation), Profund Solutions Limited, Promerit AG, Promerit Hungary Kft, Promerit Schweiz AG, Pymetrics Inc., R G Ford Brokers Limited, R R B Beratungsgesellschaft fuer Altersversorgung mbh, R. Mees & Zoonen Holdings B.V., Renewable Energy Loss Adjusters LLC, Renewable Energy Loss Adjusters Limited, Resource Benefit Associates, Rightpath Reinsurance SPC Ltd., Risk Management Australia Pty Limited, Rivers Group Limited, Rockefeller Risk Advisors Inc., Rutherfoord International Inc., SAFCAR-Marsh, SBJ Holdings Limited, SCIB (Bermuda) Limited, SCM Global Real Estate Select GP LLC, SCM Infrastructure General Partner S.a r.l., SCM International Private Equity Select III GP LLC, SCM LT General Partner S.a.r.l., SCM PE General Partner S.a.r.l., SCM PE II GP Ltd., SCM PE II Scotland GP Ltd, SCM Strategic Capital Management (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., SICAR Marsh S.a.r.l., SME Insurance Services Limited, Sail Insurance Company Limited, Scalene Re Ltd, Seabury & Smith Borrower LLC, Seabury & Smith LLC, Secure Limited, Sedgwick (Holdings) Pty. Limited, Sedgwick Consulting Group Limited, Sedgwick Dineen Group Limited, Sedgwick Financial Services Limited, Sedgwick Forbes Middle East Limited, Sedgwick Group, Sedgwick Group (Australia) Pty. Limited, Sedgwick Group (Bermuda) Limited, Sedgwick Group (Zimbabwe) Limited, Sedgwick Group Limited, Sedgwick Internationaal B.V., Sedgwick Limited, Sedgwick Management Services (Barbados) Limited, Sedgwick Management Services (Singapore) Pte Limited, Sedgwick Noble Lowndes (UK) Limited, Sedgwick Noble Lowndes Group Limited, Sedgwick Noble Lowndes Limited, Sedgwick Overseas Investments Limited, Sedgwick Private Limited, Sedgwick Re Asia Pacific (Consultants) Pte Ltd (for dissolution), Sedgwick Trustees Limited, Sedgwick UK Risk Services Limited, Sedgwick Ulster Pension Trustees Limited, Settlement Trustees Limited, Shanghai Mercer Insurance Brokers Company Ltd., Shorewest Insurance Associates LLC, Sirota Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Sirota Consulting UK Limited, Smith Long Term Disability Management Group Inc., Societe d'Assurances et de Participation Guian SA, Software Underwriting Systems Limited (in liquidation), Southern Marine & Aviation Inc., Southern Marine & Aviation Underwriters Inc., Sudzucker Versicherungs-Vermittlungs GmbH, Sumitomo Life Insurance Agency America Inc., Sylvite Financial Services, TBX Solutions Limited, Talent Tech Labs LLC, The Benefit Express Holdings Limited, The Benefit Express Limited, The Carpenter Management Corporation, The Insurance Partnership Holdings Limited, The Insurance Partnership Services Limited, The Positive Ageing Company Limited, The Purple Partnership Limited, The Recovre Group Pty Ltd, Thomsons Online Benefits (HK) Ltd., Thomsons Online Benefits Inc., Thomsons Online Benefits Limited, Thomsons Online Benefits Pte Ltd., Thomsons Online Benefits S.R.L, Torrent Government Contracting Services LLC, Torrent Insurance Services LLC, Torrent Technologies, Torrent Technologies Inc., Tower Hill Limited, Tower Place Developments (West) Limited, Tower Place Developments Limited, U.T.E. AMG, U.T.E. Marsh - Caja Castilla La Mancha Junta de Comunidades, U.T.E. Marsh - Salvado Reus (in liquidation), U.T.E. Marsh - Salvado Reus 2012, U.T.E. Marsh - Salvado Vila-Seca 2010, UAD BB Marsh Lietuva, Vezina & Associes Inc., Vezina Assurances Inc., Victor Insurance Europe B.V., Victor Insurance Holdings Inc., Victor Insurance Italia S.r.l., Victor Insurance Managers Inc., Victor Insurance Managers Inc./Gestionnaires d'assurance Victor inc., Victor O. Schinnerer & Co. (Bermuda) Ltd., Victor O. Schinnerer & Company Limited, Victoria Hall Company Limited, Wellnz Limited, William M. Mercer (Canada) Limited/William M. Mercer (Canada) Limitee, William M. Mercer AB, William M. Mercer Comercio Consultoria e Servicos Ltda., Wortham Insurance & Risk Management, everBe SAS, and realright GmbH.United Technologies Corporation provides technology products and services to building systems and aerospace industries worldwide. Its Otis segment designs, manufactures, sells, and installs passenger and freight elevators, escalators, and moving walkways; and offers modernization products to upgrade elevators and escalators, as well as maintenance and repair services. The company's Carrier segment provides heating, ventilating, air conditioning, refrigeration, fire, security, and building automation products, solutions, and services for commercial, government, infrastructure, residential, and refrigeration and transportation applications. This segment also offers building services, including audit, design, installation, system integration, repair, maintenance, and monitoring. Its Pratt & Whitney segment supplies aircraft engines for commercial, military, business jet, and general aviation markets; and provides aftermarket maintenance, repair, and overhaul, as well as fleet management services. The company's Collins Aerospace Systems segment provides electric power generation, power management, and distribution systems; air data and aircraft sensing systems; engine control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems; engine components; environmental control systems; fire and ice detection, and protection systems; propeller systems; engine nacelle systems; aircraft lighting, seating, and cargo systems; actuation and landing systems; space products and subsystems; avionics systems; flight controls, communications, navigation, oxygen, and training systems; food and beverage preparation, and storage and galley systems; and lavatory and wastewater management systems. The company offers its services through manufacturers' representatives, distributors, wholesalers, dealers, retail outlets, and sales representatives, as well as directly to customers. United Technologies Corporation was founded in 1934 and is headquartered in Farmington, Connecticut.

Read MoreKey Points to export the goods with payment of GST at concessional rate on receiving of goods(Notification No. 41/2017-Intergrated Tax Rate / Dated: 23/10/2017):

1. If one registered supplier doing inter-state supply to registered recipient for export.

2. Payment of gst at concessional rate @ 0.10% and excess gst rate on such goods is exempt.

3. Following are the conditions which have to fulfill by registered recipient:

4. Registered supplier should issue the tax invoice.

5. Registered recipient should export the said goods within 90 days.

6. The GSTIN No. and tax invoice number of the supplier should be mentioned on the shipping bill or bill of export.

7. Registered recipient should be registered with an export promotion council or commodity board recognized by the department of commerce

8. Place the order to get the goods at concessional rate and same copy should be sent to the jurisdictional officer of the supplier.

9. Movement of goods should be from the place of supplier directly to custom port or the registered warehouse of the custom.

10. If goods taken from multiple supplier, then aggregate the goods into registered warehouse and then export from there.

11. If there is condition mentioned in g point, then recipient should endorse the receipt of goods on the tax invoice to the warehouse operator and take the acknowledgement from the operator. Endorsed invoice and acknowledgement should be submitted to the supplier and jurisdictional officer of the supplier.

12. Shipping bill, tax invoice and proof of export general manifest or export report copy should be provide to the supplier as well as his jurisdictional officer.

13. Registered supplier cannot avail this exemption is recipient fails to export the goods within 90 days

Export of Goods by registered dealor without payment of Integrated GST:

Notification No. 37/2017-Central Tax, Dated 04.10.17

1. All the registered person who intends to export the goods without payment of IGST should file the Letter of Undertaking(LUT) in a place of bond except those person who have committed an offence under CGST / IGST Act or in any existing law in force where the tax evaded exceeding Rs. 2.5 Lacs.

2. Letter of Undertaking should be furnished on the letter head of the company in duplicate for a financial year annexure to FORM GST RFD 11 and signed by the working partner, MD of the company, CS of the company, the proprietor or the authorized person.

3. The provision shall be apply to all the zero rated supply of goods & services by a registered person to SEZ or SEZ Developer.

Circular No. 8/8/17-Dated 04.10.17

1. Validity of LUT:

LUT shall be valid for whole year in which it is tendered. But if goods has not being exported within 3 months from the date of invoice and payment of tax along with interest has not been made as per Rule 96A of CGST Rules, then validity of LUT is being withdrawn until payment of statutory dues is being made.

2. Documents to be submitted for LUT to Jurisdictional Deputy/Assistant Commissioner having jurisdiction over principal place of business:

1. FORM GST RFD11

2. Self Declaration by the company on the letter head

3. Time for acceptance of LUT / Bond:

LUT / Bond should be accepted within 3 working days from its receipt of application. If it is not accepted within the said period then it is deemed to be accepted.

4. Sealing by Officers:

Till mandatory self-sealing is operationalized, sealing of containers, wherever required to be carried out under the supervision of the officer, shall be done under the supervision of the central excise officer having jurisdiction over the place of business where the sealing is required to be done. A copy of the sealing report would be forwarded to the Deputy/Assistant Commissioner having jurisdiction over the principal place of business.

5. Realization of Export Proceeds in Indian Rupee:

There is no restriction on invoicing of export contracts in Indian Rupees in terms of the Rules, Regulations, Notifications and Directions framed under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. Further, in terms of Para 2.52 of the Foreign Trade Policy (2015-2020), all export contracts and invoices shall be denominated either in freely convertible currency or Indian rupees but export proceeds shall be realized in freely convertible currency. However, export proceeds against specific exports may also be realized in rupees, provided it is through a freely convertible Vostro account of a non-resident bank situated in any country other than a member country of Asian Clearing Union (ACU) or Nepal or Bhutan.

Accordingly, it is clarified that the acceptance of LUT for supplies of goods to Nepal or Bhutan or SEZ developer or SEZ unit will be permissible irrespective of whether the payments are made in Indian currency or convertible foreign exchange as long as they are in accordance with the applicable RBI guidelines. It may also be noted that the supply of services to SEZ developer or SEZ unit under LUT will also be permissible on the same lines. The supply of services, however, to Nepal or Bhutan will be deemed to be export of services only if the payment for such services is received by the supplier in convertible foreign exchange.

6. Purchases from manufacturer and Form CT-1: (General Rule)

It is clarified that there is no provision for issuance of CT-1 form which enables merchant exporters to purchase goods from a manufacturer without payment of tax under the GST regime. The transaction between a manufacturer and a merchant exporter is in the nature of supply and the same would be subject to GST.

Key Points related to claiming the manual Refund:

Circular No. 24/24/2017  Dated- 21/12/2017

1. Government has open the option to claim the refund of inverted duty structure(Unutilized input credit except nil rated and exempted supplies), Deemed exports, Excess balance in Electronic Cash Ledger.

2. Registered person has to file the FORM GST RFD 01A monthly / quarterly depends upon the filing of his GSTR 1 and valid GSTR 3B. If the turnover of the person is upto Rs. 1.5 Cr then quarterly otherwise monthly after filing the GSTR 1 and 3B.

3. Registered person has to file an undertaking along with the GST RFD 01A. The undertaking said that all the refund should be paid back along with the interest if there is any non compliance of the provisions to claim the refund.

4. For Inverted Duty Structure, the registered person has to file the statement 1 and statement 1A under GST RFD 1A.

5. If the supplier of deemed exports is claiming the refund then along with GST RFD 01A, an undertaking given by the recipient of the goods that he will not claiming the refund of the tax and nor claiming any ITC on that goods. Same shall be applicable in case the recipient is filing the application for refund.

6. The supplier / recipient of deemed export claiming the refund through GST RFD 01A has to file the statement 5B.

7. If the application for refund has been rejected, then the same shall be reflected through an order made under FORM GST RFD 1B until GST PMT 03 has been published on common portal.

8. Refund order has been issued within 7 Days.

9. Sanction order has been issued under GST RFD 04 and 06.

10. Refund has been paid through FORM GST 05.Issues of concern to people who live in the west: property rights, water rights, endangered species, livestock grazing, energy production, wilderness and western agriculture. Plus a few items on western history, western literature and the sport of rodeo... Frank DuBois served as the NM Secretary of Agriculture from 1988 to 2003. DuBois is a former legislative assistant to a U.S. Senator, a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Interior, and is the founder of the DuBois Rodeo Scholarship.Allardyce: Tosun needs to bide his time

Monday, 12 February, 2018





Catherine Ivill/Getty Images

New signing, Cenk Tosun, will have to be patient as he waits for more chances to impress, with Sam Allardyce saying the Turk has struggled to adapt to the English game.

Tosun arrived in a 21m deal last month as the much-vaunted striking acquisition aimed at finally adding some firepower to the Blues' front line following the sale of Romelu Lukaku.

However, he was dropped to the bench after just two starts and failed to make it off the bench on Saturday as Everton beat Crystal Palace 3-1 at Goodison Park.

The home fans were hopeful that, with the score at a comfortable 3-0, the conditions were apt for Tosun to get some minutes but Allardyce elected to go life-for-like instead, introducing Morgan Schneiderlin with 10 minutes to go.

We had two players injured in the first half then another injury so we had to put Morgan on, Allardyce said, insisting that he had no other option. Had we not had injuries we'd have put attacking players on, particularly when 3-0 up, but injuries made it impossible for me to consider.

A Mail On Sunday article suggested that Allardyce is yet to be convinced that Tosun is putting in enough effort in training but the official line from the manager is that the former Besiktas striker needs to get to grips with the Premier League and may not get another start until safety from relegation is confirmed.

He is struggling with the pace, the manager said. That happens to more players than it doesn't when they come in in January. There are more who struggle than succeed.

As time goes on and the more we get closer to our safety the more we can release and see what he's got. There is no doubting his goal-scoring ability but you have to have the capabilities to get in those positions to score, and that is the hard bit. We have to try to be patient as the team are winning without him.

About these adsGlowing teddy bears and LED fans have emerged as the new and trendy gifts for this year Valentines Day in Vietnam.

As Valentines Day is only two days ahead of the Lunar New Year, the demand for presents has never been higher.

Among a variety of options, LED fans have become one of the favorite gifts for this years special occasion.

The fans can be turned on after being connected with the USB portal of a computer.

After reaching a certain speed, the LED lights, which are installed across the fans blades, will be lit and a special wish or message will become visible.

These lights are arranged in different ways so that specific letters and shapes are formed across the blades when the device is switched on.

The LED fan is currently one of the bestselling souvenirs, the owner of a shop in Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City, said, adding it is best used in the dark.

The merchandise is offered at a discounted price of VND299,000 (US$13) apiece, while the original cost is VND450,000 ($20), the owner continued.

Meanwhile, a similar product sells for VND139,000 ($6) at a shop in Hanoi.

Another store in the Vietnamese capital sells it at VND165,000 ($7).

The type of souvenir can be purchased at a much cheaper price, about VND80,000 ($3.5) apiece, via online shopping sites, Quoc Huy, a resident of District 2, stated, adding that some businesses had decided to raise the price due to high demand.

Aside from LED fans, illuminating teddy bears, dresses, and shoes have also attracted a lot of attention from young Vietnamese.

However, Tuyet Nhung, who lives in Thu Duc District, expressed her concern over the origin and quality of these souvenirs.

They may originate in China. Despite the affordable price, I wont buy those products as they could affect my health in some ways, Nhung said.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!Editors note : Nhiep Phuong is a freelance Vietnamese photographer in Ho Chi Minh City. He has a keen interest in street photography.

The most common reaction a Westerner has to a finely decorated plate of dog meat in Vietnam is that of outrage. This is absolutely outrageous now that larger (and equally cute) animals get slaughtered for meat without complaint from foreigners.

Figures released by the Humane Society International in 2017 estimated that some 30 million dogs are consumed globally on an annual basis.

The Asia Canine Protection Alliance estimated in 2016 that roughly 20 million dogs are consumed each year in China, two to three million in South Korea, and five million in Vietnam.

Unfortunately, the generally cute-and-loyal animal being killed and served on a plate has raised eyebrows amongst dissenters in the Southeast Asian country.

Their arguments, though, are weak.

Argument #1: Dogs are friends, not food

Cultural perceptions of particular animals vary wildly from one setting to the next.

The first premise to be concerned in this argument is the term friend. Why is it that the dog has earned the title friend, and not foe, or food?

The answer cannot be simpler: other cultures have accidentally designated the dog amongst tons of other animals and crowned it with such a status.

In this sense, the dog has somewhat triumphed over other species in terms of value to humans.

Now think: how would a six-month old baby tell the difference between a dog, a horse, a cow, and a pig?

I bet a toddler would love them equally.

The notion of pork and beef as widely accepted meat is quickly nailed down in a childs cerebral cortex as it grows, leading it to believe that only canines have no place on the dining room table.

The only true fact about dogs being friends is this: they can be your friends, but to others they are just dogs.

Spaniards eat tiny cute little rabbits with innocent eyes and floppy long ears.

Other Europeans readily chop grown horses into pieces for an appetizing meal.

Shouldnt these animals receive the same amount of compassion?

Maybe they should. But they dont.

Steamed dog meat. Photo: Nhiep Phuong

Argument #2: Dogs can be food, but must not be tortured beforehand

Stealing dogs has been a widespread public issue in Vietnam for a long time.

Dog owners all over the country exert absolute caution against thieves in case their dogs are poisoned or snatched.

Dogs are typically tied up and burned or soaked to death before the cooking process begins, according to a 2017 report by Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on illegal dog catchers and traders in Ho Chi Minh City.

What gets on the whiners nerves is the amount of pain the dog has to withstand before it is put to sleep.

They are keyed up about the inhumane act of violently taking the life of the so-called poor animal.

Here is a fun fact: it is cruel to kill a dog, but totally fine to amputate the head and limbs of certain animals 10 times its size.

Have you ever seen a cow getting beheaded and slashed in a slaughterhouse? Or a baby piglet getting roasted whole like a toy?

How would you know the grilled beef that is on your plate right now did not come from a cow that cried in vain before breathing its last breath?

The human minds are prone to misjudgment due to refined packaging and distorted media coverage.

In light of this second argument, those in favor should substitute dogs with animals and go vegan instead.

A dog meat restaurant on Chu Van An Street, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Nhiep Phuong

Argument #3: Dog meat can transmit deadly diseases

There are bacteria in stray dogs that get snatched on the streets. Pet dogs can also carry diseases.

Phan Xuan Thao, head of the Ho Chi Minh City Vet Unit, told Tuoi Tre that dog health checks take place when they are moved from one place to another, but health safety during dog slaughtering is not under any supervision.

This leaves hygiene a matter for concern regarding the consumption of dogs.

In Vietnam, unfortunately, food hygiene is a mystery. Even the freshest looking pork available from a well-known supermarket can be the source of ones next diarrhea.

Stories reported by Tuoi Tre reveal that unhygienic foods make their way into Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi in large quantities, threatening the health of regular consumers.

Even school children have reportedly been poisoned by bad pork from trusted suppliers.

In essence, all kinds of meat can be disease carriers.

What matters more should be the regulation of meat quality, rather than the annihilation of a meat market.

When in Rome, leave the Romans alone

A 2013 survey conducted by VietNamNet with the participation of over 3,000 Vietnamese showed that only 20 percent refused to eat dog meat.

In our culture, dog might not be as highly regarded as in certain other contexts. To us, dog meat is, after all, a kind of meat.

Those who are disgusted at the food or the people enjoying it can feel free to step aside.

And, they have the right to keep silent.Sunshine Coast surfies Ash & Matty became the first team eliminated from My Kitchen Rules 2018 after the introduction of the Elimination House.

The property at Kenthurst NSW has also been home to a season of Beauty & the Geek and videos with Rebel Wilson. Chef Colin Fassnidge also appeared, not to judge, but to oversee the two teams as they cooked for contestants.

Ash & Matty faced off against friends Stella & Jazzey. But after 3 rounds, Stella & Jazzey scored

103 points while Ash & Matty languished behind on just 67. Exiting the contest was no real surprise given Matty admitted in the first episode that he couldt cook.

Ash said, Its been a helluva ride, perfect choice of partner even though he cant cook. I still wouldnt choose anyone else. I could have but that wouldnt have been fun. Its the most amazing experience we could ever have asked for.

Tonight Group 2 teams head to Tasmania where truffle farmer Henry & sister Anna cook on their family farm in Deloraine.

Source: realestate.com.auABC will add subtitles in Mandarin to select iview titles to mark the Lunar New Year.

As part of ABCs push to be relevant to all Australians, these shows will offer subtitles from Friday Feb 16:

Back Roads: The Complete Series 1  3;

Australian Story (select episodes);

Four Corners (select episodes);

Catalyst (select episodes);

You Cant Ask That: The Complete Series 1  2.

Last year, ABC iview attracted over 8.5m plays for preschool programs in Mandarin.

Rebecca Heap, ABC Head of Programming and Digital said: As the national broadcaster, the ABC is committed to serving all Australians. We appreciate how culturally and linguistically diverse Australia is with more than one-fifth of Australians speaking a language other than English at home. Our preschool Mandarin programs have been a big hit on ABC KIDS iview amongst both Mandarin speaking households and English-speaking households keen to broaden their language awareness. We are excited to be able to extend our offering with our selection of subtitled ABC programs to now cater for all age groups.

ABC KIDS will also broadcast a special curated day celebrating the Year of the Dog both on-air and on ABC KIDS iview.

ABC KIDS highlights Friday February 16:

Luo Bao Bei

Airing at 7.25am, 7.40am, 8.35am, 5.00pm and 6.15pm on ABC KIDS and ABC iview

Luo Bao Bei is a bright and spirited 7-year old girl with a vivid imagination, on a quest to understand the world around her. With her friends and some endearing animal companions by her side, she navigates the excitement of childhood with enthusiasm and curiosity, always finding adventure along the way. Kids everywhere will relate to Luo Bao Beis journey to learn life lessons, one story at a time.

Broadcast in English and available on ABC iview in English and Mandarin.

Play School Story Time: Languages

Airing from 2.10pm on ABC KIDS and ABC iview

Asian language speaking families and families with an interest in developing Mandarin, Cantonese or Japanese as a second language, will be able to enjoy watching these language versions of Play School Story Time. (These episodes are all subtitled in English and the original English versions are also available on ABC iview).

Play School Story Time: Karen Pang  Diary of a Wombat (Cantonese) 2.10pm on ABC KIDS and ABC iview

Play School favourite Karen Pang joins her Play School friends on the Story Time couch to share a delightful and entertaining peek into the life of one very busy wombat! Dont miss Jackie French and illustrator Bruce Whatleys Diary of a Wombat in Cantonese!

Play School Story Time: Kumi Taguchi  Too Many Pears (Japanese) 2.20pm on ABC KIDS and ABC iview

ABC News presenter Kumi Taguchi swaps the news desk for the Story Time couch to read Jackie French and illustrator, Bruce Whatleys beloved story about Pamela the cow in Too Many Pears in Japanese!

Play School Story Time: Adam Liaw  The Little Red Hen and the Grains of Wheat (Mandarin) 2.25pm on ABC KIDS and ABC iview

Join the fun as Adam Liaw reads the classic tale of The Little Red Hen and the Grains of Wheat by author L. R. Hen and Illustrator Jago in Mandarin.John Choueifate, Executive Director of News, has quit TEN.

He joined TEN in 2014 as Director of News, Sydney, later becoming Network News Director and Executive Director of News, after Peter Meakin stepped into a consultancy role in 2016.

He was previously Executive Producer of Today Tonight, Chief of Staff and Foreign Editor at TEN and Chief of Staff at Nine in Sydney.

Ahead of a new Head of News being appointed, Meakin will oversee the News division in conjunction with the State News Managers.

TEN Chief Content Officer, Beverley McGarvey, said News is a critical part of Network TENs content and we will continue to invest in our local News presence.

TEN Eyewitness News First At Five dominates its timeslot and is a key part of the TEN brand and our content schedule, while the launch of our exciting and innovative new website ten daily this year will take our news content  and other content  to a new audience.

We are committed to further expanding our commitment to News and will be making some announcements soon, she said.

I would like to thank John for his valuable contribution to Network TEN over the past four

years and wish him all the best for the future.

John Choueifate said: My time at TEN has been enjoyable and I have formed many close

relationships.

I would like to thank each and every one of you working in newsrooms across the country

for your professionalism and work ethic. You are all superstars in my eyes.

Its also been a pleasure working with some good people on other programs and in other

departments across the business, he said.

TENs News division has been subject to redundancies over recent years and rumours of transformation with other companies at various times. TEN maintains its new owners CBS have a strong commitment to News.Gold exploration and development company Conroy Gold and Natural Resources announced on Monday that the planned drilling programme on its Clay Lake-Clontibret gold target in Ireland has now commenced, with two drill rigs mobilised to site.

The AIM-traded firm said the current drilling programme was focused on the Clontibret gold deposit in the south west of the Clay Lake-Clontibret gold target; where a JORC resource of 517,000 ounces of gold had already been defined on 20% of the Clontibret gold target.

It said the drilling programme was designed to upgrade the overall mineral resource at Clontibret, convert inferred to indicated resources in order to apply mining parameters, and test the extent of high grade gold lodes indicated by channel samples in the historic Tullybuck antimony mine.

The firm said the drilling was also planned to gain geotechnical information in relation to the Companys proposed gold mine at Clontibret.

A thousand metres of drilling was planned over a total of 10 drill holes, to a depth of up to 200 metres in this phase of drilling.

Further drilling would follow both on the Clontibret gold deposit and elsewhere on its 100% owned licences along the 65 km gold trend, the board explained, which the company has discovered in the Longford-Down Massif.

I am pleased to announce the commencement of this drilling programme at the Clontibret gold deposit, said chairman Professor Richard Conroy.

The programme is designed to move the company forwards towards commercialisation of the major gold property which it has discovered in Ireland.

I look forward to updating shareholders as the drilling programme progresses.Oil and gas company Faroe Petroleum has agreed the sale of a 17.5% working interest in the Fenja development in the Norwegian Sea to Suncor for a cash consideration of $54.5m.

The deal, which is expected to cut Faroes future capital expenditure on Fenja to around 70m, will see the group retain a 7.5% stake in the development. It will also allow Faroe to maintains its strong balance sheet and fully funded position across its portfolio of Norwegian field developments.

Chief executive officer Graham Stewart said: "I am very pleased to welcome Suncor, a significant global integrated energy company, into the Fenja joint venture. Suncor's acquisition of a 17.5% stake in Fenja from Faroe confirms our belief in the attractiveness of this project. We look forward to working together with Suncor as the Fenja project progresses to first oil.

This transaction marks a major milestone for Faroe, which has taken Fenja through exploration and appraisal drilling to predevelopment work and validates Faroe's business model of generating tangible shareholder returns from its exploration portfolio. Having held a significant interest in PL586 from its discovery, Faroe has now generated cash returns through a partial-monetisation while still giving shareholders exposure to future cash flows from a continuing interest in this high quality project."

RBC Capital Markets said: "On a risked basis we included just over $30m for the 17.5% stake in our Tangible NAV (inc the Norwegian tax synergies), so this looks accretive.

"The entry of Suncor into the Fenja development gives credibility to the project on a standalone basis and allows Faroe's to be fully aligned with its existing 7.5% interest in the Greater Njord Area. This deal has boosted the balance sheet and relieved any investor concerns about a further debt or fundraising to finance developments. Following the completion of this deal, Faroe is still expected to reach a production rate in excess of 30,000boe/d following the development of the Brasse and Fenja projects."IQE put out a statement on Monday from its joint venture with Cardiff University, defending its accounting practices after they were placed under the microscope last week.

The JV, called the Compound Semiconductor Centre (CSC), came under scrutiny twice in recent weeks from reports courtesy of US short-sellers ShadowFall and Muddy Waters, with the latter describing the ventures accounting as "possibly designed to deceive investors".

The two reports have played havoc with IQE's share price, sending the stock 14% lower following ShadowFalls report on 2 February and then a further 10% on 8 February after Muddy Waters had its say.

Both reports alleged that IQE, which manufactures compound semiconductors for Apple's latest iPhone's 3D camera sensors, has misrepresented its profits, with Muddy Waters claiming that IQE's true profits in the first half of the year were 69% less than it reported after it used CSC to shift losses from its records.

CSC's statement said: "Cardiff University has invested equity of 21.8m in the Compound Semiconductor Centre. IQE contributed their share in hardware, infrastructure and licensing intellectual property, all independently valued. The University entered into the joint venture as a strategic investment to ensure our world leading research has a well-founded route to commercialisation."

Meanwhile, IQE confirmed that it had changed it auditor to KPMG from PWC, who have been in place since 2005, as it seeks to quash the negativity induced by what it referred to as "two recent broadly similar and misleading reports" from funds which both hold a short position in IQE.

In a statement, the technology firm said: "the company wishes to go above and beyond the disclosure requirements as stated under the AIM Rules. The company holds itself to the highest standards of transparency, governance and integrity."

Analyst Paul Morland of Canaccord Genuity visited IQE's facilities in Newport, South Wales on Friday "to confirm the authenticity of the CSC joint venture and walk around the new wafer plant that may be supplying the maker of iPhones this summer".

Morland said the CSS release, together with his own visit to the site, "leaves us fully convinced of CSC's existence, that it has its own employees, an independent board and most importantly, it looks set to be a significant player in the South Wales compound semiconductor cluster that is being enthusiastically supported by the UK government, as it attempts to bring manufacturing jobs back to the UK.

"We also took the opportunity to walk around the new facility for 100 MOCVD machines [that manufacture epiwafers by metalorganic vapour phase epitaxy], equivalent to IQE's total current machine count of over 10 locations globally, just as installation of the first machine was completed.

"IQE states that this plant will be the largest and most modern of its kind anywhere in the world. We believe it is important for investors to understand that it is the mass production of VCSELs and not the license sales made to JVs in 2015 and 2016 that was the principal reason for the strong performance of IQE's shares last year."

Last Monday, analysts at Barclays said they disagreed with the crux of the anonymous Shadowfall short-sellers, which was that a significant portion of IQEs operating profit was generated due to revenue from these JVs during 2015 and 2016, for fundamentals and the financial reasons.

"From a fundamental point of view, these JVs were not set-up as entities merely to shift funds around to benefit IQE, but rather as links between IQE, academia and other supply chain partners in order to further research and development in the burgeoning field of compound semiconductors.

"In terms of financials, all is disclosed in public documents which have been audited by independent accountants. As a JV partner, IQE participates significantly in the governance of the JVs, but they are separate legal entities, with their own boards and shareholder agreements. The fact that a significant portion of profit came from these two entities in 2015 and 16 is coincidental and does not signal to us anything sinister."

As of 1019 GMT, IQEs shares had risen 5.37% to 105.90p.A new Thai entity has been established by Wishbone Gold and has successfully delivered its first shipment to Dubai.

The AIM-listed company currently holds a 49% stake in the Asian Commerce and Commodities Trading Co and plans to increase its holding to 95% as shipments become more frequent.

Richard Poulden, chief executive of Wishbone Gold, said: "We are pleased that the first shipment of gold arrived without a problem and look forward to increasing the volumes."

The company seeks to develop and improve established mines in gold rich nations while working with artisanal and small scale miners (ASM).

"The possibility of working with the Thai authorities to improve the working conditions of ASM miners is exciting and will give Wishbone Gold a good foothold in another gold producing country," said Poulden.

In 2017, Wishbone Gold launched a similar project in Honduras in collaboration with Scotia International and the Honduran government.

The companys registered a $331,034 loss for the six months ending 30 June 2017, a 79% increase on its $185,247 of red ink for the same period in the previous year, but Wishbone Gold said it had suffered delays in its Honduras operations due to a particularly disruptive hurricane season.

As of 1304 GMT, Wishbone Golds shares were up 23.53% at 0.52p.South African president Jacob Zuma has agreed to be recalled, with African National Congress officials said to be negotiating the manner in which it is to be communicated.

That was according to the South African Broadcasting Corporation's Tshepo Ikaneng, who cited "authoritative sources".

However, it was followed soon afterwards by a report of the ANC's recently-appointed spokesperson, Pule Mabe, labeling talk that Zuma was to resign as 'fake news'.

Earlier on Monday, the South African National Editors' Forum reportedly warned Mabe "not to infringe on the SABC's right to cover stories it deems important."

That followed Mabe's criticism of the SABC's decision to cover a Sunday press conference by an anti-Zuma group comprised of people claiming to be ANC and South African Communist party members who had announced they would march on the Union buildings in Pretoria the next day to "remove" Zuma from power.

As of 1508 GMT, the US dollar was slightly off its lows of the session, down by 0.64% to 11.9167 versus the South African rand.The United States and South Korea have agreed to terms regarding further diplomatic engagement with North Korea, according to US vice president Mike Pence who said that talks between Seoul and Pyongyang could eventually link Washington with the rogue nation.

The hope of discussions followed months of escalating tensions between Pyongyang and the White House over Kim Jong-un's nuclear and missile programmes that led to a war of words between Donald Trump and the leader of the North that included threats of complete destruction because of tightened sanctions against the hermit kingdom by the United Nations.

Relations between North and South have improved since the New Year, with the North agreeing to send its highest ranking delegation in history to the Winter Olympic Games in the South Korean resort town of Pyeongchang.

Included in the trip was an invitation for South Korean President Moon Jae-in to travel to Pyongyang for talks which, if the visit finally came about, would mark the first inter-Korea summit since 2007.

While on his way home from the Winter Games, Pence said the US would continue its "maximum pressure campaign" against the North, but would simultaneously consider talks between the nations.

"The point is, no pressure comes off until they are actually doing something that the alliance believes represents a meaningful step toward de-nuclearisation, Pence said on Sunday.

"So the maximum pressure campaign is going to continue and intensify. But if you want to talk, we'll talk."

Seoul's position was that any talks between North Korea, South Korea and the US would lead to the nuclear disarmament of the North, and that until such time as the goal was achieved, sanctions and pressure would continue to be applied against the nation.Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar and Theresa May are set to meet in Belfast on Monday to break the deadlock around crafting a power-sharing administration in Northern Ireland.

The Irish PMs office said he was meeting May to assess the state of play in the negotiations to restore the Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly.

The assembly fell last year after an investigation into the costs of a renewable energy initiative spiraled out of control, leading Sinn Fein to drop out of the coalition with their rivals the DUP and they havent been able to reach an agreement since.

After the coalition government collapsed and fresh elections failed to break the deadlock, the Irish and British governments have been trying to reach a deal to restore the assembly.

A spokesman for Theresa Mays office said that there are "many pressing issues facing Northern Ireland" and a resolution would benefit the countrys citizens.

Yet there were still many points of disagreement between Sinn Fein and the DUP, such as on the issue of same-sex marriage, which was still illegal in Northern Ireland, rights for Irish-language speakers, and funding for inquests into deaths that occurred during The Troubles.

Brexit was another key factor looming in the background, given the divide between parties in Northern Ireland on what should happen to the North when the UK leaves the European Union.

The Irish government was worried that the UKs insistence on leaving the customs union and the single market could negatively impact trade in Northern Ireland, resulting in a hard border that they by all means wanted to avoid.

Hence Leo Varadkar's call for May to be clear about what the British government "wants Brexit to mean".

He told RTE, "Time is running out, it is 20 months since the referendum, and we still don't know what the British government wants Brexit to mean.

"The UK is due to leave the EU in March 2019. Its a little over a year away and I think we need clarity and urgency from London."

Eloise Todd, CEO of anti-Brexit group Best For Britain, said the Irish border was one of the key points of Brexit and could bring it all down if the government doesnt come clean about it.

"The sooner the government comes clean about whats really possible the better. The truth is either the UK government betrays Ireland and the fragile peace in Northern Ireland by cutting through the north/south divide or the government jettisons the DUP and cuts up the UK."Acacia Mining reported a massive 710m loss after writing down the value of its assets due to a dispute with the government of Tanzania but has cut costs to "remain competitive" in 2018.

The FTSE 250 group's revenue of $751.5m for the calendar year was down 29% on the previous year as gold production decreased 27% after Tanzania's mining authorities banned the export of gold-copper concentrate last March. This ban meant the company was unable to export and sell 185,800 ounces of produced gold during the year.

With the ban still in place as Acacia's 64%-owning parent company Barrick Gold finalises a resolution with the Tanzanian government, Acacia switched production at its Buzwagi mine from concentrate to gold dore bars, which are not affected by the export ban.

As it still awaits detailed proposals from Barrick over a proposed agreement for Tanzania to share the economic benefits on a 50/50 basis, in the form of royalties, taxes and a 16% free carry interest in the operating mines, Acacia has written down the carrying values of its mining assets, though still hoped its application for international arbitration could lead to an alternative solution to be negotiated.

In light of the potential reduction in value of all three of its operating mines, Acacia has took a $850m gross impairment charge, including a net $632m for the Bulyanhulu mine due to its longer mine life and the delay to a return to positive cash generation after its move to reduced operations. This saw the gross profit of $293m lurch into the sizeable pre-tax loss.

In addition to the above net impairment, Acacia also raised an additional tax provision of $172m relating to the estimated uncertain tax positions for its operating companies, based on an estimate of the impact of a comprehensive settlement, which brings total tax provisions to $300m in line with Barrick's pledge for it to pay back taxes.

Year-end cash, as had already been revealed last month, shrank to $81m from $318m, with net cash of US$10m as the new year began and so directors have decided not to pay a dividend.

We delivered resilient operational performance during a challenging 2017," said Peter Geleta, interim chief executive after former CEO Brad Gordon and chief financial officer Andrew Wray both jumped ship in November after Barrick shook hands on its agreement with Tanzanian president John Magufuli.

Geleta, previously Acacias head of organisational effectiveness and a former executive at Canada-based Barrick, said the action taken during the year, including wringing out an all-in sustaining cost of $875 per ounce that was below the guidance range and the lowest that Acacia has ever achieved, he believes "operations are now well placed to deliver in 2018".

He went on: "As expected, we will see a step-down in production in 2018 to 435,000-475,000 ounces as Buzwagi transitions to processing stockpiles and Bulyanhulu, whilst in reduced operations, solely re-processes tailings. Our continued cost discipline means that AISC will remain competitive at US$935-985 per ounce.

"Our focus remains on delivering optimal performance from all aspects of the business within our control in the current operating environment, returning the business to free cash generation and delivering value for all of our stakeholders. We are supporting efforts towards achieving a negotiated resolution with the Tanzanian government.

Acacia shares fell more than 9% to 155.75p after over an hour of trading on Monday.

While a resolution is hoped for in 2018, analysts at RBC Capital Markets noted that challenges continue, with the Ministry of Minerals seeking the restoration of the floatation circuit at the Buzwagi mine after its adjustment to a dore producer and clarification on "potentially applicable regulatory approvals" which ACA had not sought as it believed that these did not apply having conversed with relevant government agencies.

RBC felt 2018 guidance was a "little light" versus its estimate of 489koz production at AISC of $915/oz. "The main driver of the weaker production versus our estimate is Buzwagi, with production guided to 100koz vs. our 139koz, driven by our expectation of some better grades in H1 as the mine transitions into a stockpiles operation.

"Capex guidance stands at $100m, higher than our $50m estimate, due to higher guided capex at Mara and an additional $10m of plant adjustments at Buly."

Henry Croft, research analyst at Accendo Markets, said the dividend cut was the reason for the shares' decline.

"The dispute with Tanzania is now as long-running as it is well-publicised, 11 months after the stand-off over gold exports began after claims from Tanzanian President Magufuli that Acacia cheated the country out of tens of billions of dollars by understating the value of its exports," he said.

"With a backlog of shipments already lying dormant, its no surprise that total production has decreased by almost a third over the past year, suggesting that even when a deal is reached, the impact on Acacias mining capacity will be felt long into the future," Croft added, saying the cutting of the dividend will be the "final straw for many loyal shareholders who have stuck with the company in the hope a deal will be reached within the next five months".The FTSE 250 over-50s travel and insurance group has entered into a quota arrangement to cover 80% of the underwriting risk of motor policies of the group's in-house underwriter, AICL, to take effect from 1 February 2019.

The new quota share agreement, which provides three years of cover on a rolling basis, adds Hannover Re to its current reinsurance partner NewRe and replaces Sagas existing quota share arrangement which is due to expire at the end of January 2019.

Saga said the increase of its quota share arrangement from 75% to 80% share is in line with its overall strategy and further reduces its exposure to underwriting risk, which will continue to support the withdrawal of capital from the underwriter.

The company also gave a very brief update on trading, saying it continues to be in line with the guidance given in December 2017.

Chief executive officer Lance Batchelor said: "The new quota share arrangement and the addition of Hannover Re as a partner provides further evidence of the stability and high quality of our underwriting business.

The increase to 80% in the reinsured share of our in-house underwriter's motor policy risk continues to reduce Saga's exposure to underwriting risk which allows the group to maintain its efficient capital structure."WPP said on Monday that GroupM, its wholly-owned global media investment group, has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Indian digital creative agency The Glitch.

The Glitch, whose clients include Unilever, Netflix, Shutterstock and Tinder, focuses on digital, video and content strategy, interactive design technology, branding and media planning.

The company was founded in 2009 and employs around 200 people in Mumbai and Delhi.

WPP says the acquisition continues its strategy of focusing on the areas of technology, data and content which differentiates the groups offering to clients.

WPPs digital revenues exceeded $7.5bn in 2016, constituting 39% of the groups total revenues of $19.4bn with that percentage leaping to 41% as of 30 June.

Within India, WPP companies employ over 19,000 people and generate revenues of over $0.6bn

As of 1042 GMT, WPPs shares were up 0.55% to 1288.00pThe University of North Georgia (UNG) entered into a new partnership with the Argentine University of Defense (UNDEF) with a signing ceremony held Feb. 5 at UNG's Dahlonega Campus.

The agreement was signed by UNG President Bonita Jacobs and Gonzalo Alvarez, president of UNDEF, in a ceremony attended by faculty and administrators from both institutions as well as special guest Maj. Gen. Joe Jarrard, the adjutant general for Georgia.

"The one thing our two institutions have in common is academic excellence with a strong focus on the military," Jacobs said. "It's especially important for our military students to learn different languages and different cultures, because that's the only way we can begin to understand each other."

In 2016, Georgia applied to become a state partner to Argentina under the State Partnership Program (SSP) and was selected by Congress in December 2016 over several other states to partner with Argentina. An initial engagement meeting between UNG and UNDEF took place in March 2017. With the SSP as a framework, UNG participated with the UNDEF delegation to make initial contact in the area of academic outreach, to include civilian and cadet exchange.

The UNDEF delegation, which included Alvarez, Brig. Gen. Carlos A. Podio, vice president of UNDEF; Brig. Gen. Agustin Cejas, director of Argentine Military College; and Martin Bertone, director of UNDEFs international office, attended a briefing on the history of UNG and the Corps of Cadets and toured the Dahlonega Campus earlier.

"When universities such as ours have shared ideas and a strong will to make them happen, it will lead to a deeper and stronger relationship between our institutions and our countries," Alvarez said. "We are committed to a long and beneficial relationship."

UNDEF was formed in 2014 through the consolidation of Argentina's Air Force High Studies Institute, the Navy High Studies Institute and the Army High Studies Institute. UNDEF is charged with training military and civilian students in seven different disciplines, as well as military training for national defense through undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate courses. It has an enrollment of 12,000 graduate and undergraduate students.

To date, UNDEF joins over 60 international partners around the world to provide academic and military cooperation to UNG students and cadets. UNDEF is the seventh military academy partnership for UNG. The agreement will allow those in the Corp of Cadets to take classes in professional military education, leadership, and opportunities for military mountaineering and tactical training.

As one of only six federally designated senior military colleges in the nation, UNG is the Military College of Georgia, and its leadership development experiences have earned it designation as a state leadership institution by the University System of Georgia Board of Regents.Virginia Governor Ralph Northam recently announced that he will co-host the 10th annual Governors Conference on Agricultural Trade, which will take place on March 5 at the Richmond Marriott Hotel.

The highly anticipated event will be co-hosted by the Virginia Tech College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Center for Agricultural Trade, housed in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics; the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services; Virginia Farm Bureau Federation; and the Port of Virginia.

This years conference marks a decade of convening stakeholders from Virginias largest industry  agriculture and forestry  to advance trade partnerships, said Alan Grant, dean of Virginia Techs College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

The event will continue the tradition of focusing on the most salient topics in international agricultural trade with representatives from key trade nations. The format gives Virginia producers, agribusinesses, and state leaders a chance to learn about how changes in policy or international agreements could affect Virginia products.

Many U.S. competitor countries are moving ahead with trade agreements of their own in the Asia-Pacific, said Jason Grant, associate professor and director of Virginia Techs Center for Agricultural Trade. The U.S. risks losing its competitive advantage in some key markets as a result, which could impact Virginia businesses. Its a very important time for Virginia producers to become informed about these potential changes and the governors conference provides a one-of-a-kind venue for this.

Conference topics will include the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement  including talks led by Canadian and Mexican representatives to the United States  along with the expected signing of the mega-regional Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Governor Northam will also speak about his priorities and objectives for agriculture and forestry trade. The governor will discuss his administrations plans to promote Virginia agriculture and forestry products around the world and his dedication to ensuring Virginias position as a leader in export promotion of these products.

This years conference is a one-day event to accommodate guest schedules and ease the travel burden for attendees.

Conference speakers will include Jim Perdue, chief executive officer of Perdue Farms; Ted McKinney, United States Department of Agriculture under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs; Zippy Duvall, president of American Farm Bureau; David MacNaughton, ambassador of Canada to the United States; Geronimo Gutierrez, ambassador of Mexico to the United States; Japanese and other senior United States trade officials; representatives from the United States Grains Council and Meat Export Federation; and Bettina Ring, Virginia secretary of agriculture and forestry.

This conference is just one way Virginia Tech partners with policy makers, producers, and industry leaders to enhance Virginia agriculture and forestry. The university plays a major role in augmenting Virginias top industry by producing and disseminating relevant research at its Blacksburg campus and throughout the state at various Agricultural Research and Extension Centers and through Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Virginia Techs Center for Agricultural Trade is sponsoring 25 undergraduates to attend the conference as a part of the colleges mission to provide experiential learning opportunities for students. The conference provides students from Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, and Southside Community College with an opportunity to learn from and network with industry and government representatives, preparing the next generation of Virginia agriculture and forestry leaders.

Individuals, groups, and companies interested in participating in the conference may register online at or call Event Coordinator Christie Young at 804-516-2396.

- Written by Jillian BroadwellEvery weekday morning, children and families arrive at the Virginia Tech Child Development Center for Learning and Research. The centers deep colors, soft lighting, natural materials, and cozy, child-sized furniture provide a welcoming environment for hours of play-based learning opportunities.

This carefully crafted ambiance goes hand-in-hand with the centers latest accomplishment. The National Association for the Education of Young Children awarded the school a new, five-year term of accreditation, after the successful completion of the rigorous renewal process.

For reaccreditation, the center had to submit extensive application materials, including teacher and administrator qualifications, a professional development plan, and the results of teacher and family surveys.

The materials showcased how the center meets the associations 10 Early Learning Program Standards and Accreditation Criteria. These criteria highlight best practices involving relationships between staff and family, curriculum, teaching, child progress assessments, health, teachers, family, community relationships, the physical environment, and leadership and management.

We also needed to submit several portfolios to provide evidence for center- and classroom-specific standards, said Karen Gallagher, director of the center. An onsite assessor reviewed our materials and surveys and then completed classroom observations to verify the information.

During the site visit, the center presented its curriculum strengths and effectiveness in the areas of social-emotional support, physical activity, language skills, early literacy, early mathematics, science, technology, creative expression, appreciation for the arts, social studies, and health and safety.

These areas are enhanced through a play-based learning approach, said Alexa Gardner, the centers curriculum coordinator. This method involves the use of small-group interactions for the construction of knowledge and an intentional outdoor curriculum. Children explore ideas independently, so they learn in a hands-on way rather than being only teacher directed.

And how did the center fare in the reaccreditation? It excelled. In each of the 10 standards required, the center received scores of 100 percent or even higher. The average classroom rating was 99.5 percent.

Reaccreditation  especially at such a high score  brings a great deal of prestige to Virginia Tech, said Anisa Zvonkovic, head of the Department of Human Development and Family Science. Its the validation of the expertise and hard work our early childhood professionals demonstrate every day as they work to enhance development of young children in our community.

Accredited since 1987, the Child Development Center for Learning and Research opened in 2005 as a full-time, year-around facility.

At that time, we transitioned from a part-time lab school into a full-time school to help meet the demand for high-quality care and learning within our campus community, Gallagher said. Our history, though, dates back to the 1940s when the universitys Department of Home Economics started the first childhood development center.

The center moved into its current Wallace Hall home under the auspices of the Department of Human Development, now the Department of Human Development and Family Science, in 1968.

The center now does more than provide child care; it also fulfills the service missions of Virginia Tech. By offering a model preschool program, it is a leader for local, state, and national early-childhood-care communities in teaching, learning, and research.

As our recent accreditation scores reflect, we deliver professional education for those going into human services fields, Gallagher said.

Since the start of the current academic year, 130 students from the Department of Human Development and Family Science in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences have engaged in field studies, service learning projects, or classroom observations. In addition, 25 students in the Department of Psychology from the College of Science are participating in observations this semester.

In addition to the centers successful reaccreditation, it rated a Level 5 in 2017 from Virginia Quality, the states voluntary quality rating and improvement system, making it one of a handful of child development centers in the state to achieve the top level.

Written by Leslie King

M&A

General Dynamics buying CSRA in watershed federal IT deal

General Dynamics has agreed to pay $6.8 billion to acquire CSRA in a deal that consolidates two of the largest players in government IT, the companies said Monday.

The consolidation of General Dynamics IT division with CSRA would create an almost $9.9 billion-revenue business with footprints across almost all sectors of government including defense, intelligence and federal civilian, General Dynamics CEO Phebe Novakovic said in a statement.

That scale would put the larger General Dynamics IT business right behind Leidos, which at $10 billion in annual revenue is government services largest player. Leidos doubled to that scale through its merger with the former Lockheed Martin IT business in 2016.

Both companies expect to close the deal during the first half of this year pending antitrust clearance, tender of a majority of CSRA stock in favor of the deal and other closing conditions.

This General Dynamics IT-CSRA consolidation also extends what has already been a hectic environment for mergers and acquisitions in the federal IT and professional services market.

CSRA itself paid almost $340 million to acquire defense telecommunications firm NES Associates and intelligence community IT outfit Praxis Engineering in a pair of deals over the course of last year. ManTech International also took on more IT modernization work through its $180 million acquisition of InfoZen in the fall of last year.

And in another more complicated example, DXC Technology said in October is spinning off and merging its U.S. government business into Vencore and KeyPoint Government Solutions. That deal is now anticipated to close in May versus its prior March timeframe.

CSRA launched in November 2015 after the spinoff and subsequent merger of the former Computer Sciences Corp. U.S. government business into SRA International. CSRA reported $5 billion in revenue for its most recent fiscal year. The company is led as chief executive by Larry Prior.

Falls Church, Virginia-based General Dynamics will pay $6.8 billion in cash for neighboring CSRA and assume $2.8 billion in net debt. At $40.75 per share in cash, the deal is a 32-percent premium over CSRAs stock price of $30.82.

The deals $9.6 billion enterprise value is greater than that of Northrop Grummans pending acquisition of fellow defense contractor Orbital ATK, which is valued at $9.2 billion. Northrop is paying $7.8 billion in cash to acquire Orbital ATK and assuming $1.4 billion in net debt.

The companies are targeting pre-tax cost synergies of approximately 2 percent of the combined companys revenue by 2020. General Dynamics expects the deal to increase its earnings per share in 2019.

Stone Key Group was General Dynamics financial adviser and Jenner & Block LLP was legal adviser. Evercore and Macquarie Capital were financial advisers to CSRA and Paul Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP were legal counsel.

Shares in General Dynamics were up 2.3 percent in pre-market trade, while CSRAs stock surged 31 percent higher.

Executives from both companies were scheduled to discuss the transaction in a call with investors at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time and we will update this post with any relevant comments.The following companies are subsidiares of The AES: 25 Ashdown Road Solar LLC, AES (India) Private Limited, AES (NI) Limited, AES Abigail S.a.r.l., AES Accabonac Solar LLC, AES Africa Power Company B.V., AES AgriVerde Holdings B.V., AES AgriVerde Services (Ukraine) Limited Liability Company, AES Alamitos Development Inc., AES Alamitos Energy LLC, AES Alamitos L.L.C., AES Alicura Holdings S.C.A., AES Americas International Holdings Limited, AES Andres (BVI) Ltd., AES Andres BV, AES Andres DR S.A., AES Andres Holdings I Ltd, AES Aramtermelo Holdings B.V., AES Argentina Generation S.A. (1), AES Argentina Holdings S.C.A., AES Argentina Investments Ltd., AES Argentina Operations Ltd., AES Arlington Services LLC, AES Armenia Mountain Holdings LLC, AES Armenia Mountain Wind 2 LLC, AES Aurora Holdings Inc., AES Aurora Inc., AES BES Jordan B.V., AES Bainbridge Holdings LLC, AES Bainbridge LLC, AES Ballylumford Holdings Limited, AES Baltic Holdings BV, AES Barka Services Inc., AES Barry Limited, AES Barry Operations Ltd., AES Beaver Valley L.L.C., AES Belfast West Power Limited, AES Belleville Solar LLC, AES Big Sky L.L.C., AES Botswana Holdings B.V., AES Brasil Ltda, AES Brazil Inc., AES Brazil International Holdings Limited, AES Broadalbin Solar LLC, AES Bulgaria B.V., AES Bulgaria Energy Solutions EOOD, AES Bulgaria Holdings BV, AES Bussum Holdings BV, AES CC&T International Ltd., AES CLESA Y Compania Sociedad en Comandita de Capital Variable, AES Calaca Pte. Ltd., AES Calgary Inc., AES California Management Co. Inc., AES Caracoles SRL, AES Carbon Exchange Ltd., AES Carbon Holdings LLC, AES Caribbean Finance Holdings Inc., AES Caribbean Investment Holdings Ltd., AES Cartegena Holdings BV, AES Cayman Guaiba Ltd., AES Cayman Pampas Ltd., AES Central America Electric Light LLC, AES Central American Holdings Inc., AES Central American Investment Holdings Ltd., AES Central Asia Holdings BV, AES Ceprano Energia SRL, AES Changuinola S.R.L., AES Chhattisgarh Energy Private Limited, AES Chigen Holdings Ltd., AES China Generating Co. Ltd., AES Chivor & Cia S.C.A. E.S.P., AES Chivor S.A., AES Climate Solutions Holdings I B.V., AES Climate Solutions Holdings I LLC, AES Climate Solutions Holdings II LLC, AES Climate Solutions Holdings L.P., AES Climate Solutions Holdings LLC, AES Colon Development S. de R.L., AES Columbia Power LLC, AES Communications LLC, AES Communications Latin America Inc., AES Connecticut Management L.L.C., AES Coop Holdings LLC, AES Costa Rica Energy SRL, AES Costa Rica Holdings Ltd., AES DE AssetCo VI LLC, AES DE Class B Holdings LLC, AES DE Class B I LLC, AES DE Class B II LLC, AES DE Class B III LLC, AES DE Class B IV LLC, AES DE Class B V LLC, AES DE Class B VI LLC, AES DE Class B VII LLC, AES DE Construction LLC, AES DE DevCo I LLC, AES DE DevCo NC LLC, AES DE Holdings I LLC, AES DE Holdings III LLC, AES DE Holdings IV LLC, AES DE Holdings V LLC, AES DE Holdings VI GB LLC, AES DE Holdings VI GB Owner LLC, AES DE Holdings VI LLC, AES DE Manager LLC, AES DE RS IX LLC, AES DE RS VI LLC, AES DE RS VII LLC, AES DE RS VIII LLC, AES DE RS X LLC, AES DE RS XI LLC, AES DE RS XII LLC, AES DE Residential Holdings I LLC, AES DE Solar Access Holdings I LLC, AES DE-GIE LLC, AES DPL Holdings LLC, AES DPP Holdings Ltd., AES Deepwater LLC, AES Desert Power L.L.C., AES Development de Argentina S.A., AES Disaster Relief Fund, AES Distribuidores Salvadorenos Limitada, AES Distribuidores Salvadorenos Y Compania S en C de C.V., AES Distributed Energy Inc., AES Dominicana Cooperatief UA, AES Drax Financing Inc., AES Drax Power Finance Holdings Limited, AES EDC Holding L.L.C., AES ES Alamitos LLC, AES ES Deepwater LLC, AES ES Gilbert LLC, AES ES Holdings LLC, AES ES Tait LLC, AES Ecotek Europe Holdings B.V., AES El Faro Electric Light Ltd., AES El Faro Generating Ltd., AES El Salvador Electric Light LLC, AES El Salvador LLC, AES El Salvador S.A. de C.V., AES El Salvador Trust, AES Electric Ltd., AES Electroinversora B.V., AES Elpa S.A., AES Empresa Electrica de El Salvador Limitada de Capital Variable, AES Endeavor Inc., AES Energia SRL, AES Energy B.V., AES Energy Developments S.L., AES Energy Ltd., AES Energy Services Inc., AES Energy Solutions LLC, AES Energy Storage Arizona LLC, AES Energy Storage Holdings, AES Energy Storage Holdings LLC, AES Energy Storage LLC, AES Energy Storage UK Limited, AES Energy Storage Zeeland B.V., AES Engineering LLC, AES Europe Services EOOD, AES Finance and Development Inc., AES Florestal Ltda., AES Fonseca Energia Limitada de C.V., AES Forca Ltd., AES Foreign Energy Holdings LLC, AES GEI US Finance Inc., AES GEO Energy OOD, AES GPH Holdings Inc., AES Gabreski Solar LLC, AES Gas Supply & Distribution Ltd., AES Gener S.A., AES Generation Development LLC, AES Global Insurance Company, AES Global Mobility Services LLC, AES Global Power Holdings B.V., AES Globales B.V., AES Grand Dominicana Ltd., AES Grid Stability LLC, AES Griggs Solar LLC, AES Guaiba II Empreendimentos Ltda, AES Guayama Holdings BV, AES Hawaii LLC, AES Hawaii Management Company LLC, AES Highgrove Holdings L.L.C., AES Highgrove L.L.C., AES Hispanola Holdings BV, AES Hispanola Holdings II BV, AES Holdings B.V., AES Holdings B.V. - Vietnam Rep Office, AES Holdings Brasil Ltda., AES Honduras Generation Ventures Ltd., AES Honduras Holdings Ltd., AES Horizons Holdings BV, AES Horizons Investments Limited, AES Hungary Energiaszolgaltato Kft., AES Huntington Beach Development L.L.C., AES Huntington Beach Energy LLC, AES Huntington Beach L.L.C., AES IB Valley Corporation, AES Ilumina Holdings LLC, AES Ilumina LLC, AES Ilumina Member LLC, AES India Holdings (Mauritius), AES India L.L.C., AES Indiana Holdings L.L.C., AES Integrated Energy LLC, AES Intercon II Ltd., AES Interenergy Ltd., AES International Holdings II Ltd., AES International Holdings III Ltd., AES International Holdings Ltd., AES Investment Chile SpA, AES Italia S.r.l, AES James Baird Solar LLC, AES Johnsville Solar LLC, AES Jordan Holdco Cayman Limited, AES Jordan PSC, AES Jordan Solar B.V., AES Juniper Point Holdings LLC, AES K2 Limited, AES Kalaeloa Venture L.L.C., AES Kekaha Solar LLC, AES Keystone L.L.C., AES Keystone Wind L.L.C., AES King Harbor Inc., AES Kuihelani Solar LLC, AES LA FIT Dedeaux LLC, AES LA FIT Francisco LLC, AES LA FIT Sun Valley LLC, AES LATAM Energy Development Ltd., AES Landfill Carbon LLC, AES Latin America S. de R.L., AES Latin American Development Ltd., AES Laurel Mountain LLC, AES Lawai Solar LLC, AES Levant Holdings B.V., AES Levant Holdings B.V/ Jordan PSC, AES Lion Telecom Investments B.V., AES Lumos Holdings LLC, AES Maritza East 1 Ltd., AES Maritza East 1 Services Ltd., AES Mayan Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., AES Merida B.V., AES Merida III S. de R.L. de C.V., AES Merida Management Services S. de R.L. de C.V., AES Merida Operaciones SRL de CV, AES Mexican Holdings Ltd., AES Mexico Farms L.L.C., AES Mexico Generation Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., AES MicroPlanet Ltd., AES Mid East Holdings 2 Ltd., AES Mong Duong Holdings B.V., AES Mong Duong Project Holdings B.V., AES Monroe Holdings B.V., AES Mount Vernon B.V., AES NA Central L.L.C., AES NEXT Ltda. de C.V., AES Nejapa Gas Ltda. de C.V., AES Nejapa Services Ltda. de C.V., AES Next LLC, AES Nile Power Holdings Ltd., AES North America Development LLC, AES OPGC Holding, AES Oahu LLC, AES Oahu Wind Holdings LLC, AES Oasis Holdco Inc., AES Oasis Ltd., AES Oasis Mauritius Inc, AES Ocean Springs Trust Deed, AES Odyssey L.L.C., AES Ohio Generation LLC, AES Operaciones Laguna del Rey S. de R.L. de C.V., AES Operadora S.A, AES Orissa Distribution Private Limited, AES Overseas Holdings (Cayman) Ltd., AES Overseas Holdings Limited, AES Pacific Inc., AES Pacific L.L.C., AES Pacific Ocean Holdings B.V., AES Pak Holdings Ltd., AES Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd., AES Pakistan Operations Ltd., AES Panama S.R.L., AES Parana Gas S.A., AES Parana Holdings Ltd., AES Parana IHC Ltd., AES Parana II Limited Partnership, AES Parana Operations S.R.L., AES Parana Propiedades S.A, AES Parana Uruguay S.R.L, AES Pardo Holdings Ltd., AES Pasadena Inc., AES Peru S.R.L., AES Phil Investment Pte. Ltd., AES Philippines Power Partners Co. Ltd., AES Platense Investments Uruguay S.C.A, AES Puerto Rico Inc., AES Puerto Rico L.P., AES Puerto Rico Services Inc., AES Redondo Beach L.L.C., AES Renewable Power Group S.R.L., AES Renewables (India) Private Limited, AES Riverside Holdings LLC, AES SACEF Investment LLC, AES SEB Holdings (Delaware) LLC, AES SEB Holdings Ltd., AES Saint Petersburg Holdings B.V., AES San Nicolas B.V., AES SellCo III LLC, AES Services Inc., AES Services Ltd., AES Services Philippines Inc., AES Servicios America S.R. L., AES Servicios Electricos S. de R.L. de C.V., AES Servicos TC Ltda., AES Shady Point LLC, AES Silk Road Energy LLC, AES Silk Road LLC, AES Solar Energy B.V., AES Solar Energy Holdings B.V., AES Solar Energy LLC, AES Solar Espana S.L., AES Solar Holdings LLC, AES Solar Power PR LLC, AES Sole Italia S.r.L., AES Soluciones Limitada de Capital Variable, AES Solutions LLC, AES Solutions Management LLC, AES South America Holdings Cooperatief U.A., AES South America Holdings I B.V., AES South America Holdings II B.V., AES South American Holdings Ltd., AES South Point Ltd., AES Southland Development LLC, AES Southland Energy Company Holdings I LLC, AES Southland Energy Holdings II LLC, AES Southland Energy Holdings LLC, AES Southland Energy Investment LLC, AES Southland Energy LLC, AES Stonehaven Holding Inc., AES Strategic Equipment Holdings Corporation, AES Sul L.L.C., AES Summit Generation Ltd., AES Swiss Lake Holdings B.V., AES TEG Holdings I LLC, AES TEG Holdings LLC, AES TEG II Mexican Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., AES TEG II Mexican Investments S. de R.L. de C.V., AES TEG II Operations S. de R.L. de C.V., AES TEG Management Inc., AES TEG Mexican Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., AES TEG Mexican Investments S. de R.L. de C.V., AES TEG Operations S. de R.L. de C.V., AES TEG Power Investments B.V., AES TEG Power Investments II B.V., AES TEGTEP Holdings B.V., AES TEP Holdings I LLC, AES TEP Holdings LLC, AES TEP Management Inc., AES TEP Power II Investments Limited, AES TEP Power Investments Limited, AES Tamuin Development Services S. de R.L. de C.V., AES Texas Funding III L.L.C., AES Thames L.L.C., AES Thomas Holdings BV, AES Tiete Eolica S.A., AES Tiete Inova Solucoes de Energia I Ltda., AES Tiete Inova Solucoes de Energia II Ltda., AES Tiete Inova Solucoes de Energia Ltda., AES Tiete Integra Solucoes em Energia Ltda, AES Tonawanda Solar LLC, AES Transgas I Ltd., AES Treasure Cove Ltd., AES Trinidad Services Unlimited, AES Trust III, AES Tucano Holding I S.A., AES Tucano Holdings II S.A., AES U&K Holdings B.V., AES U.S. Holdings LLC, AES U.S. Investments Inc., AES U.S. Solar LLC, AES UCH Holdings (Cayman) Ltd., AES UK Datacenter Services Limited, AES UK Holdings Limited, AES UK Power Financing II Ltd, AES UK Power Financing Limited, AES UK Power Holdings Limited, AES UK Power L.L.C., AES UK Power Limited, AES US Distributed Solar Holdings LLC, AES US Generation Holdings LLC, AES US Generation LLC, AES US Services LLC, AES US Wind Development L.L.C., AES US Wind Generation Holdings LLC, AES Union de Negocios S.A. de C.V., AES Uruguaiana Empreendimentos S.A., AES Venezuela Finance, AES Volcan Holdings B.V., AES WR Limited Partnership, AES Waikoloa Solar LLC, AES Warrior Run L.L.C., AES West Oahu Solar LLC, AES Western Power Holdings L.L.C., AES Western Power L.L.C., AES Western Wind L.L.C., AES Western Wind MV Acquisition LLC, AES Wind Bulgaria EOOD, AES Wind Generation LLC, AES Wind Generation Limited, AES Wind Investments I B.V., AES Wind Investments II B.V., AES Yucatan S. de R.L. de C.V., AES Zephyr 2 LLC, AES Zephyr 3 LLC, AES Zephyr Inc., AES- IC Ictas Enerji Uretim ve Ticaret A.S., AES-3C Maritza East 1 Ltd., AES-RS Spanish Holdings LLC, AES-RS Sunshine Cooperatief U.A., AES-RS Sunshine Holdings LLC, AES-VCM Mong Duong Power Company Limited, AESCom Sul Ltda., AESEBA Trust Deed, AGV Solar IV Geradora de Energia S.A., AGV Solar V Geradora de Energia S.A., AGV Solar VI Geradora de Energia S.A., AM Solar B.V., AM Solar B.V. - Jordan Co., APR Walden Solar 1 LLC, ARNIKA Beteiligungsverwaltungs GmbH, AZ Solar I LLC, AZ Solar II LLC, AZ Solar Phase Zero LLC, AgCert Canada Co., AgCert Canada Holding Limited, AgCert Chile Servicios Ambientales Limitada, AgCert International Limited, AgCert Servicios Ambientales S.R.L., Agilion Energy Private Limited, Allis Medina Solar LLC, Altai Power Limited Liability Partnership, Alto Maipo SpA, Amaterasu LLC, Andes Solar SpA, Arizona B&GC Solar LLC, Assonet Solar 1 LLC, Atlantic Basin Services Ltd., B.A. Services S.R.L., Bakersfield Industrial PV 1 LLC, Bakersfield PV I LLC, Beals Medina Solar LLC, Boa Hora 1 Geradora De Energia Solar S.A., Boa Hora 2 Geradora de Energia Solar S.A., Boa Hora 3 Geradora De Energia Solar S.A., Bolton Solar I LLC, Brasiliana Participacoes S.A., Bridgeport Solar LLC, Buffalo Gap Holdings 2 LLC, Buffalo Gap Holdings 3 L.L.C., Buffalo Gap Holdings LLC, Buffalo Gap Wind Farm 2 LLC, Buffalo Gap Wind Farm 3 L.L.C., Buffalo Gap Wind Farm 4 L.L.C., Buffalo Gap Wind Farm LLC, Bullock Freetown Solar 1 LLC, Bosforo de Responsabilidad Limitada de Capital Variable, CCS Telecarrier, CDEC-SING Ltda, CIA.TRANSMISORA DEL NORTE CHICO S.A., CO-CA Wholly Owned LLC, Camille Ltd., Camille Trust, Cavanal Minerals LLC, Cayman Energy Traders, Cemig II C.V., Centrais Eolicas Ametista S.A., Centrais Eolicas Borgo S.A., Centrais Eolicas Caetite S.A., Centrais Eolicas Dourados S.A., Centrais Eolicas Espigao S.A., Centrais Eolicas Maron S.A., Centrais Eolicas Morrao S.A., Centrais Eolicas Pelourinho S.A., Centrais Eolicas Piloes S.A., Centrais Eolicas Seraima S.A., Centrais Eolicas Serra do Espinhaco S.A., Centrais Eolicas Tanque S.A., Centrais Eolicas Ventos do Nordeste S.A., Centrais Eolicas da Prata S.A., Centrais Eolicas dos Aracas S.A., Central Electricity Supply Company of Orissa Limited, Central Termoelectrica Guillermo Brown S.A., Cerulean Properties LLC, Clean Wind Energy Ltd., Coastal Itabo Ltd., Colon LNG Marketing S. De R.L., Compania de Alumbrado Eletrico de San Salvador S.A. DE C.V., Compass Circle Solar LLC, Compania Transmisora Angamos SpA, Compania Transmisora La Cebada S.A., Compania Transmisora del Norte Grande SpA, Costa Norte LNG Terminal S. de R.L., Cronin Road Solar 1 LLC, DPL Capital Trust II, DPL Inc., Daggett Ridge Wind Farm LLC, Delano PV1 LLC, Diamond Development Inc., Distribuidora Electrica de Usulutan Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, Domi Trading S.L., Dominican Power Partners, Dublin Solar I LLC, Dunstable Solar 1 LLC, EMLP Controladora S. de R.L. de C.V., ENERAB S. de R.L. de C.V., ENERGEN S.A., Eloy ESD Solar Holdings LLC, Empresa Electrica Angamos S.A., Empresa Electrica Campiche S.A., Empresa Electrica Cochrane II SpA, Empresa Electrica Cochrane S.A., Empresa Electrica Guacolda S.A., Empresa Electrica Ventanas S.A., Empresa Electrica de Oriente S.A. de C.V., Empresa Generadora De Electricidad Itabo S.A., EnerAB Cogeneracion I Laguna del Rey S. de R.L. de C.V., EnerAB Suministro Calificado S. de R.L. de C.V., EnerAB Tenedora S. de R.L., Energetica Argentina S.A., Energia Eolica Los Olmos SpA, Energia Eolica Mesamavida SpA, Energia Verde S.A., Energy Trade and Finance Corporation, Energia Eolica Curauma SpA, Energia Eolica Paposo SpA, Energia Natural del Este Enadom, Eolica Mesa La Paz S. de R.L. de C.V., FTP Power LLC, Finchville Solar LLC, Fluence Energy LLC, Founder's Homestead Farm Solar LLC, Fundacion AES Dominicana Inc., Fundacion AES Gener, GENERGIA S.A., GNRY Holdings & Investments Limited, Gas Natural Atlantico II S. de R.L., Gas Natural Atlantico S. De R.L., Gasoducto GasAndes Argentina S.A., Gasoducto GasAndes S.A., Gener Argentina S.A., Gener Blue Water Ltd., Genergia Power Ltd., Georgia Solar Holdings LLC, Georgia Solar Parent LLC, Global Energy Holdings C.V., Goller Enerji Uretim Ltd. 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II Ltd., Mercury Chile Holdco Ltd., Mercury Chile I Limitada, Mercury Chile II Limitada, Miami Valley Insurance Company, Miami Valley Lighting LLC, Mid-America Capital Resources Inc., Middletown Solar 1 LLC, Mong Duong Finance Holdings B.V., Motor EV LLC, Mountain Minerals LLC, Mountain View Power Partners IV LLC, Mountain View Power Partners LLC, Murcia Generation Holdings B.V., NY RNM Project1 LLC, NY RNM Project1A LLC, NY RNM Project2 LLC, NY RNM Project3 LLC, NY RNM Project4 LLC, Na Pua Makani Power Partners LLC, New Caribbean Investments SRL, Norgener Inversiones SpA, Norgener Renovables SpA, Norgener S.A., Nova Energia Holding S.A., Novus Barre Town Solar LLC, Nurenergoservice LLP, Oahu SPE 101-14 LLC, Oahu SPE 101-19 LLC, Oahu SPE 101-2 LLC, Oahu SPE 101-33 LLC, Oahu SPE 101-4 LLC, Oahu SPE 101-9 LLC, Odisha Power Generation Corporation Limited, Omega SpA, PARQUE EOLICO NOLANA SpA, PARQUE EOLICO TOPOLOA SpA, Parque Eolico Beata SRL, Parque Eolico Litueche SpA, Parque Eolico Campo Lindo SpA, Parque Eolico Los Cururos SpA, Parque Eolico Victoria SpA, Punta del Sol SpA, Quebrada Seca SpA, RMR Solar LLC, RT52 Walden Solar 1 LLC, Ransomville Solar 1 LLC, Remittance Processing Services LLC, Rep Office of AES Silk Road in Almaty, Rep Office of AES Silk Road in Tajikstan Republic, Richmond Solar Power 1 LLC, River Street Solar 1 LLC, Riverside Canal Power Company, Rosamond Solar LLC, Ryan Road Solar LLC, SD Solar I LLC, SEPV Imperial LLC, San Bernardino Solar LLC, Scituate Solar I LLC, Scottsdale Solar Holdings LLC, SeaWest Asset Management Services LLC, SeaWest Energy Project Associates LLC, SeaWest Properties LLC, SeaWest Wyoming LLC, Shazia S.R.L., Simple Energy Inc., Solar Access America LLC, Solar Access CA LLC, Solar Access California LLC, Southern Electric Brazil Participacoes Ltda., Store Heat and Produce Energy Inc., Stow Solar I LLC, Sudbury Ervin GMC Solar LLC, SunE Solar XVII Project5 LLC, SunE SunHoldings4 LLC, T&T Power Holdings I SRL, T&T Power Holdings II Ltd., TEG Business Trust, TEG/TEP Management LLC, TEP Business Trust, Tau Power BV, Tecnoma Energia Solar S.L., TermoAndes S.A., Termoelectrica Penoles S. de R.L. de C.V., Termoelectrica del Golfo S. de R.L. de C.V., Terneuzen Cogen B.V., The AES Barry Foundation, The Dayton Power and Light Company, Thermo Fuels Company Inc., Tozer Road Solar LLC, USVI Solar I LLC, University Solar LLC, Vientos Neuquinos I S.A., Village of Waterbury Solar I LLC, W. Orange RD Solar LLC, West Brookfield Boston Post Road Solar LLC, West Street Solar 1 LLC, Western Solar Parent LLC, Wilbur Woods Solar LLC, Wildwood Trust, Williamsburg East Street Solar LLC, Winchendon Ash Street Solar 1 LLC, Winchendon Lincoln Avenue Solar 1 LLC, Winchendon Lincoln Avenue Solar 2 LLC, Your Energy Holdings Limited, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-001 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-003 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-006 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-007 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-008 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-011 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-014 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-017 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-023 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-024 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-038 LLC, ZPD-PT Solar Project 2017-044 LLC, sPower, and sPower OpCo A Blocker LLC.By Ruth Anderah.

Lord Mayor Elias Lukwago has dragged the Minister for Kampala Betty Kamya Turomwe to High court accusing her of interfering with his executive by illegally passing-off as the political head of the city whereas not.

Lukwago claims his mandate to serve as the duly elected mayor of the city has been usurped by Kamya who even took a decision on the 23rd / January 2018 to suspend council meetings where deliberations and decisons on how to govern the city are made .

According to court documents, Kamya stalled the council meetings on grounds that they are illegal and nolonger relevant to the city a decision that Lukwago describes as irrational and unreasonable .

In his petition filed today , Lukwago now seeks orders to quash Kamyas decision regarding the legality of Council meetings and another decision that subjects all his travels as the Lord Mayor to a ministerial permit.

Lukwago further seeks orders to compel Kamya to put in place a metropolitan physical planning committee as required by the KCCA Act arguing that the absence of this committee negatively impacts him in the performance of his execute duties of developing and strategizing for the city.

Through his own law firm of Lukwago and company advocates, Lukwago contends that unless court intervenes and restrains Kamya from making such irrational decisions and passig-off as the Lord Mayor , the sovereignty of the people of Kampala will be put in jeopardy and hence forth affect the social contract he made with his voters in May 2016 .The following companies are subsidiares of Caterpillar: Advanced Tri-Gen Power Systems LLC, Anchor Coupling Inc., Asia Power Systems (Tianjin) Ltd., AsiaTrak (Tianjin) Ltd., Banco Caterpillar S.A., Berg Propulsion International Pte Ltd., Bucyrus, Bucyrus Australia Surface Pty. Ltd., Bucyrus Europe Holdings Ltd., Bucyrus Europe Limited, Bucyrus International (Chile) Limitada, Bucyrus International (Peru) S.A., Bucyrus Mining Australia Pty. Ltd., Bucyrus Mining China LLC, Bucyrus UK Limited, Cat Rental Kyushu LLC, Caterpillar (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited, Caterpillar (China) Financial Leasing Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (China) Investment Co. 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Ltd., Perkins Small Engines LLC, Perkins Small Engines Limited, Perkins Technology Inc., Progress Metal Reclamation Company, Progress Rail Arabia Limited Company, Progress Rail Australia Pty Ltd, Progress Rail Canada Corporation, Progress Rail Equipamentos e Servicos Ferroviarios do Brasil Ltda., Progress Rail Equipment Leasing Corporation, Progress Rail Holdings Inc., Progress Rail Innovations Private Limited, Progress Rail Inspection & Information Systems GmbH, Progress Rail Inspection & Information Systems S.r.l., Progress Rail International Corp., Progress Rail Leasing Canada Corporation, Progress Rail Leasing Corporation, Progress Rail Leasing de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Progress Rail Locomotivas (do Brasil) Ltda., Progress Rail Locomotive Canada Co., Progress Rail Locomotive Chile SpA, Progress Rail Locomotive Inc., Progress Rail Maintenance de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Progress Rail Manufacturing Corporation, Progress Rail Raceland Corporation, Progress Rail Rocklin Corporation, Progress Rail SA Proprietary Limited, Progress Rail Services Corporation, Progress Rail Services Holdings Corp., Progress Rail Services LLC, Progress Rail Services UK Limited, Progress Rail Switching Services LLC, Progress Rail Transcanada Corporation, Progress Rail Welding Corporation, Progress Rail Wildwood LLC, Progress Rail de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pyroban Group, Pyroban Group, Pyrrha Investments B.V., Pyrrha Investments Limited, S&L Railroad LLC, SCM Singapore Holdings Pte. Ltd., SPL Software Alliance LLC, Sabre Engines, Servicios de Turbinas Solar S. de R.L. de C.V., Shandong SEM Machinery Co. Ltd., Solar Turbines, Solar Turbines, Solar Turbines (Beijing) Trading Services Co. Ltd., Solar Turbines (Thailand) Ltd., Solar Turbines CIS Limited Liability Company, Solar Turbines Canada Ltd./Ltee., Solar Turbines Central Asia Limited Liability Partnership, Solar Turbines EAME s.r.o., Solar Turbines Egypt Limited Liability Company, Solar Turbines Europe S.A., Solar Turbines India Private Limited, Solar Turbines International Company, Solar Turbines Italy S.R.L., Solar Turbines Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Solar Turbines Middle East Limited, Solar Turbines New Zealand Limited, Solar Turbines Saudi Arabia Limited, Solar Turbines Services Company, Solar Turbines Services Nigeria Limited, Solar Turbines Services of Argentina S.R.L., Solar Turbines Switzerland Sagl, Solar Turbines Trinidad & Tobago Limited, Solar Turbines West-Africa SARL, Tangshan DBT Machinery Co. Ltd., Tecnologia Modificada S.A. de C.V., Towmotor Corporation, Traction & Mining Motor Repairs Pty Ltd, Turbinas Solar S.A. de C.V., Turbinas Solar de Colombia S.A., Turbinas Solar de Venezuela C.A., Turbo Tecnologia de Reparaciones S.A. de C.V., Turbomach, Turbomach Endustriyel Gaz Turbinleri Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited, Turbomach France SARL, Turbomach GmbH, Turbomach Netherlands B.V., Turbomach Pakistan (Private) Limited, Turbomach S.A. Unipersonal, Turbomach Sp. Z o.o., Turner Powertrain Systems Limited, UK Hose Assembly Limited, Underground Imaging Technologies Inc, United Industries LLC, VALA Inc., Vasky Energy Ltd., Wealdstone Engineering, Weir - Oil & Gas Division, West Virginia Auto Shredding Inc., Western Gear Machinery LLC, Wetland Sustainability Fund I LLC, Williams Technologies, Yard Club, Zhengzhou Siwei Mechanical and Electrical Equipment Sales Co. Ltd., and okyo Rental Ltd..Dunsmuir Tigers win first football game since 2018

It was the first victory for Dunsmuir High since downing Happy Camp on the road 32-24 on Oct. 19 2018.By JOB BWIRE.

Police in Kampala have arrested a man and recovered an AK47 with two magazines containing 58 rounds of ammunition.

Police say the suspect identified as 25 year old Henry Drici, 25, from Laropi village in Moyo District was arrested on Sunday at about 11am at Namayiba Bus Terminal in an operation led by the DPC Old Kampala, ASP Nyangoma Grace, with the help of Flying Squad Unit operatives.

Drici was arrested after a tipoff from police lookout teams.

The suspect has since been transferred to the Flying Squad offices for further questioning.

Meanwhile, police also arrested a man identified as Kenneth Kamugisha for vandalising and stealing valuable equipment belonging to National Water and Sewage Cooperation.

Kamugisha told police that he had been initiated into the deal by his friend who works as a casual labourer at the NWSC Kyaliwajala Branch.

Upon arrest, the suspect reportedly told police that the stolen equipment is worth Shs3 million on market.

The operation leading to the arrest was led by the Officer in Charge of Kiwologomapost Edward Twesigomwe.For about two years, R.D. Saunders worked underground as a uranium miner. He worked at the Kermac Mine at Ambrosia Lake, near Grants.

That was back in the 1970s, a boom time for the uranium industry and for the city.

Saunders new book features a string of anecdotes, matter-of-factly but vividly told, about the demands and the dangers, the mining tools and the methods of the job.

The book is titled Underground and Radioactive  Adventures of a Uranium Miner in 1970s New Mexico. Strange, theres no mention of radioactivity in the book; the author said the publisher wanted that adjective in the title.

Saunders grew up in suburban Chicago and attended Illinois Wesleyan before moving to Grants in search of a work.

Rarely did the miners at the Kermac Mine work solo; usually they toiled in pairs. Safety was the companys prime concern.

On occasion, Saunders writes, one partner would sustain an injury and the other would go for help. Without the partner the injured worker could lie there for hours before either a shift boss came by or he was noticed missing at lunch or at the end of the day.

He himself suffered an accident that injured a vertebra. It triggered his decision to leave mining.

Debris, mostly from falling rock, posed a danger. Sometimes supplies left on the track by greenhorn laborers caused ore cars to derail.

These are stories that Ive been retelling for a long time. Id written the stories down, and I finally decided to put them together (in a book), said Saunders, a 66-year-old Albuquerque resident.

The stories reflect the good feeling he got from putting in an honest days work and being paid for what he had done. And he felt emotionally satisfied to be among so many miners who felt pride in their work.

Saunders also discusses the admiration and respect he had for some of the veteran miners. One stood out as a mentor, Cal Cargill. Years underground had made him the kind of leathery, grizzled-looking miner Id heard about, and imagined but certainly had never seen, Saunders writes.

Cargill had endured 37 years logging and mining around Butte, Mont., before he went to work at the Kermac Mine.

To work for Cal for any length of time as a helper required three principal necessities: loyalty, physical strength and the ability to keep your mouth shut, Saunders wrote. Cargill didnt demand the helper have any prior knowledge of drilling, blasting or mucking. I was living proof of that, Saunders wrote.

What Saunders said he was trying to accomplish in writing the book was to give readers an idea of what life as a miner. It was fascinating then, and for me it still is, he said.

About two years after starting at the mine, Saunders suffered an accident. He was struck in the back by a waterlogged chunk of sand.

After rehab, Saunders said, he had enough of mining. He left Grants and did odd jobs around northern New Mexico, living in Los Alamos and in Santa Fe. He got an advanced degree and became an economist for what was then called the New Mexico Labor Department.

At the back of the book are two pages of definitions of terms, words like stope, manway, jackleg and drift, that are helpful in understanding the text.

BOOK OF THE WEEK REVIEWAgriculture, automobiles and railroads.

These iconic industries have played a major part in making the U.S. a global, economic superpower. Each of these sectors is carefully following the North American Free Trade Agreement renegotiations that just completed a sixth round in Toronto, Canada, and each has become more and more vocal about the value of NAFTA to their future welfare.

NAFTA was designed to reduce tariffs on products traded among the three North American neighbors, and to enact provisions such as requiring a certain percentage of North American content in products traded in North America in order for them to enjoy lower or zero tariffs.

From a trade standpoint, NAFTA has been successful. Since it was implemented in 1994, NAFTA has helped increase trade between Canada, the U.S., and Mexico from $290 billion to $1.1 trillion in 2016. Agriculture and automotive are two sectors that have been instrumental in driving the increase.

In late December, governors from the states of Iowa, Arkansas, Michigan and Tennessee traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue to discuss the importance of NAFTA to their farmers. Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa stated,  If the U.S. chooses to pull out of NAFTA, we will be one of the first causalities that would happen. Were going to hold them accountable, and were going to continue to have the conversations that we need to. We could potentially lose all of the opportunities that we would see from the tax bill with the uncertainty that it would bring from the investment community if we withdraw from NAFTA.

The U.S. agricultural sector exported approximately $43 billion to its NAFTA neighbors in 2016  a 450 percent increase since NAFTA was implemented. It is estimated that exiting NAFTA could cause a loss of 50,000 U.S. jobs and a $13 billion drop in GDP from decreased agricultural revenues. Ironically, each of the states that took the trip to Washington to lobby for NAFTA were states that President Donald Trump won in the 2016 presidential election as he bashed NAFTA as the worst agreement ever. They are now scrambling to become an influential force in attempting to preserve the agreement.

According to a November op-ed penned by Mitch Bainwol, president and CEO of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, U.S. companies exported more than $30 billion in automotive parts to Canada and more than $29 billion to Mexico in 2015. He states that U.S. auto manufacturing is an international endeavor, with a supply chain stretching around the globe. The industrys competitiveness hinges on its integrated NAFTA supply chain, through which vehicle components cross the Mexican and Canadian border duty-free, most often by freight rail, as many as eight times in the vehicle assembly process. Therefore, NAFTA is a critical factor in this supply chain.

According to Bainwol, The tariff would incentivize automakers to produce goods outside of North America. It would also cause automobiles produced in Mexico and Canada to be more competitive in global markets than cars produced in the United States. Under such scenarios, the U.S. would be less able to compete with Asian and European companies.

The alliance is strongly against the Trump administrations NAFTA renegotiation demands that the amount of NAFTA content in North American autos be increased from 62.5 percent to 85 percent, and a total of 50 percent of total content would have to come from U.S. companies. Bainwol points out that more than 12.2 million automobiles were produced in the U.S. in 2016, more than 1 million more than were produced before NAFTA was enacted. Today, vehicles produced in Mexico and Canada contain much more U.S. content than those produced outside North America. If NAFTA were terminated, the result would be a 2.5 percent tariff on passenger vehicles imported from Mexico and Canada, which would result in an average extra cost of $850 per vehicle passed on to consumers.

From a logistics standpoint, railroads carry billions of dollars of supplies and finished products between the three NAFTA partners, the largest amounts concentrated in the automotive, farm, and food products sectors. According to Edward Hamberger, CEO of the Association of American Railroads, NAFTA trade accounts for a large portion of all rail business. Industry data shows that at least 42 percent of rail carloads and intermodal units, and roughly 50,000 U.S. jobs are directly associated with international trade. We agree with economists who predict a steep decline of North American trade without NAFTA in place, a major problem for our industry, which customers rely on to traverse the northern and southern borders every day, Union Pacific Railroads CEO Lance Fritz states, While almost all observers agree that NAFTA must be modernized, it should not be abandoned altogether. The conversation we need to be having is how do we enhance the NAFTA trading blocs capability of competing globally, and specifically Americas ability to compete globally.

It is still uncertain when the NAFTA renegotiations will end and whether NAFTA will continue between the North American partners. However, traditional American industries that are so critical to our economy are loudly raising their voices in favor of its preservation.

Jerry Pacheco is the executive director of the International Business Accelerator, a nonprofit trade counseling program of the New Mexico Small Business Development Centers Network. He can be reached at 575-589-2200 or at jerry@nmiba.com.State Police say an attendant at the Smiths Fuel Center in Edgewood was fatally shot Sunday afternoon during an armed robbery.

Officer Carl Christiansen said police believe a man with a semiautomatic handgun and a bandana tied over his face walked into the gas station, located on N.M. 344 near Route 66, around 4 p.m., robbed the attendant and shot him. The attendant was transported to a hospital where he died.

Christiansen said in a news release that the suspect was described as white or Hispanic, approximately 25 to 30 years old, thin and around 6 feet tall. He said it is not clear what was taken from the fuel center during the robbery.

Police have not released the victims name or age.FARMINGTON  The gym at the Sycamore Park Community Center was packed as a former gang member related how he had turned his life around after serving time in prison.

Jorge Cuevas was one of those who spoke at the Choices: An Inspirational Presentation, presented by the Farmington Police Department.

Last months event provided Cuevas an opportunity to talk about his time in a California gang and the toll it took on his life. The large crowd prompted the center staff to set up more seats.

Cuevas, 44, told the crowd how his life has changed since he was a teenage member of a gang living in Cudahy, Calif. Today, Cuevas is enrolled at San Juan College, pursuing a business degree.

Cuevas said his anger at his father for abandoning his family and going to Mexico led him to join a gang. He said that dealing drugs gave him the money to purchase such things as gold chains.

Cuevas said that when he was 17 year old, he was shot and immediately realized that he could no longer feel his legs. The shooting left him paralyzed, and he must use a wheelchair.

Two months later, in September 1991, his brother Jaime Cuevas was shot and killed during a double homicide as part of a gang war.

After his brothers death, Cuevas said the negative energy pulled him to the dark side. He said he moved to Farmington in 1997 and began dealing drugs again, leading to his arrest in 2003 and an indictment on federal drug charges.

During the question-and-answer session, Cuevas was asked when he realized that he needed to change his life. He said that, while serving a more than six years prison sentence, he received a letter from one of his nephews The nephew wrote that he loved Cuevas and missed him.

Cuevas said the letter made him realize that he wanted to become a role model for his relatives.By Ruth Anderah.

Makindye General Court martial has declined to release on bail senior police officer SSP Nixon Agasirwe.

Nixon who is accused of kidnapping two Rwandan nationals had applied for bail on grounds that he has no past criminal record and investigations and that he is a sole bread winner of his children whose mum passed away.

But on dismissing his application the courts Chairman Lt Gen Andrew Gutti ruled that civilian sureties were not substantial to stand for a police officer of his rank and that the Police officers he brought who included Senior superintendent of Police Kaggwa Andrew officer in charge of operations at Naguru police headquarters, commissioner police Fortunate Habyara, Retired commissioner of Police Laban Muhabwe had no permission from the IGP as required by the law.

He added that since he managed to convince the senior officers to stand for him as sureties there are no doubt that he will influence his juniors who will be prosecution witnesses.

Agasirwe also has a pending application before the High court challenging his trial before the army court since he is not an army officer thereby seeking for court orders to be released unconditionally from Luzira Prison where he is currently on remand.From his recent news conference, it appears Mayor Tim Keller is looking for ways to finish the ART project  a project that most Albuquerque citizens do not support. He is certainly demonstrating the keen abilities that made him a good state auditor by defining the categories of problems with construction, design, funding, safety standards, buses and operational issues.

But theres another level of analysis that is imperative. As a business owner on Central, I feel strongly that City Hall needs input from Central business owners on the economic results of this project so far. This should include expanded analysis on the businesses that have closed since construction began  an incomplete list is at SAVERT66.org  the loss of city revenue from gross receipts taxes those businesses generated, and the loss of jobs to employees who worked for those businesses. There is also the trickle down damage of businesses on Central ordering less from wholesalers, laundries and a wide variety of other suppliers.

The ongoing impacts to businesses on Central must be considered as well as the continuing expenses of re-engineering the project and the future costs of maintaining ART.

Route 66 was the major trade route coming into Albuquerque and New Mexico. In my business, 30 percent of the buying customers do not live in Albuquerque. The New Mexico Tourism Department reports that tourism contributes 19 percent of all generated tax revenue in New Mexico. According to the figures on their site, 20 percent of the gross domestic product of New Mexico comes from tourism.

What happens when a major trade route bypasses a city? Think of Grants and Gallup and Interstate 40 bypassing them. Tourists and travelers quit stopping in these cities, and their economies declined. Tourists and residents in and around Albuquerque will report to Yelp and GPS driving direction apps to avoid the difficult drive on the historical Route 66 in Albuquerque, thus encouraging no stops in Albuquerque or avoidance of Central/RT 66 by tourists, travelers and residents alike.

We know that Albuquerque needs more money, not less, and therefore cutting into a source of revenue as valuable as tourism makes no sense at all, and that is what the ART project has already done and will continue to do. The city is already $40 million in the hole, they havent paid the $25 million for the faulty buses, and the project is not finished due to the many mistakes and ongoing do overs.

Block car traffic, block the economy. Block customers, block the economy. Block the trade route, stay on Interstate 40, block the economy. Block the Albuquerque economy, block the N.M. economy. Yes, its a domino effect.

Now there is no doubt that Mayor Keller is receiving a lot of advice about ART. Heres one: When youre in a financial hole, quit digging. The solution may well be, lets not throw good money after bad. Pull the plug now! Because, like the Rail Runner transit route, Albuquerque is a long way from the population density along Central to make ART a transit solution.

If your house is on fire, you dont call a plumber to fix a leak in the sink. By that I mean that supervising the bus order to satisfactory conclusion is superfluous if the decision must be made to ax ART to save Central Avenue, and with it our economy.WASHINGTON  In a twist on Washingtons truism about presidential budgets being D.O.A., President Donald Trumps 2019 fiscal plan due Monday is dead even before arrival.

The original plan was for Trumps new budget to slash domestic agencies even further than last years proposal, but instead it will land in Congress three days after he signed a two-year spending agreement that wholly rewrites both last years budget and the one to be released Monday.

In a preview of the 2019 budget, the White House on Sunday focused on Trumps $1.5 trillion plan for the nations crumbling infrastructure. He also will ask for a $13 billion increase over two years for opioid prevention, treatment and long-term recovery. A request of $23 billion for border security, including $18 billion for a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border and money for more detention beds for detained immigrants, is part of the budget, too.

Trumps latest submission was completed before the budget pact delivered the nearly $300 billion increase above prior caps on spending. The $4 trillion-plus 2019 budget was originally designed to double down on last years proposals to slash foreign aid, the Environmental Protection Agency, home heating assistance and other nondefense programs funded by Congress each year.

A lot of presidents budgets are ignored. But I would expect this one to be completely irrelevant and totally ignored, said Jason Furman, a top economic adviser to President Barack Obama. In fact, Congress passed a law week that basically undid the budget before it was even submitted.

Trump would again spare Social Security retirement benefits and Medicare as he promised during the 2016 campaign. And while his plan would reprise last years attempt to scuttle the Obamacare health law and sharply cut back the Medicaid program for the elderly, poor and disabled, Trumps allies on Capitol Hill have signaled theres no interest in tackling hot-button health issues during an election year.

Instead, the new budget deal and last years tax cuts herald the return of trillion dollar-plus deficits. Last year, Trumps budget predicted a $526 billion budget deficit for the 2019 fiscal year starting Oct. 1; instead, its set to exceed $1 trillion once the cost of the new spending pact and the tax cuts are added to Congressional Budget Office projections.

Mick Mulvaney, the former tea party congressman who runs the White House budget office, said Sunday that Trumps new budget, if implemented, would tame the deficit over time, though unlike last years submission, it wouldnt promise to balance the federal ledger eventually.

The budget does bend the trajectory down, it does move us back towards balance. It does get us away from trillion-dollar deficits, Mulvaney said on Fox News Sunday. Just because this deal was signed does not mean the future is written in stone. We do have a chance still to change the trajectory. And that is what the budget will show tomorrow.

Last year, Trumps budget projected a slight surplus after a decade, but critics said it relied on an enormous accounting gimmick  double counting a 10-year, $2 trillion surge in revenues from the economic benefits of tax reform. Now that tax reform has passed, the math trick cant be used, and the Trump plan doesnt come close to balancing.

Trumps infrastructure plan would put up $200 billion in federal money over the next 10 years to leverage $1.5 trillion in infrastructure spending, relying on state and local governments and the private sector to contribute the bulk of the funding.

Critics contend the infrastructure plan will fail to reach its goals without more federal support. Proposals to streamline the permitting process as a way to reduce the cost of projects have already generated opposition from environmental groups.

The budgets call for increased border security funding would probably depend on Congress passing legislation to deal with young immigrants brought to the country illegally. The Senate was set Monday to begin debate on immigration policy, the fate of the so-called Dreamers a central question.

The White House budget office said Friday that Mondays submission would reflect stringent limits on appropriated spending  thats the more than $1 trillion spent each year for agency operations  that were the hangover from a failed 2011 budget deal. Last year, Trump promised a $54 billion, 10 percent increase for the Pentagon, financed by an equal cut to foreign aid and domestic agencies.

What Congress instead delivered on Friday was a budget law would instead increase defense by $80 billion this year and boost nondefense appropriations by $63 billion. For the 2019 budget year submitted on Monday  and Trumps plan as originally devised would adhere to the old limits  Congress has already shattered the spending cap by $153 billion.

Our leadership caved. The swamp won. And the American taxpayer lost, said Rep. Mark Meadows, R-N.C., on CBS Face The Nation.

Presidential budgets tend to reprise many of the same elements year after year. While details arent out yet, Trumps budget is likely to curb crop insurance costs, cut student loan subsidies, reduce pension benefits for federal workers and cut food stamps, among other proposals.

Such cuts went nowhere in Congress last year as Republicans focused on trying to repeal and replace Obamas Affordable Care Act and, after that failed, turned their sights to a successful rewrite of the tax code.

But the election in December of Alabama Democrat Doug Jones to the Senate seat cut the GOPs margin of control to 51-49. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., says the chamber wont tackle politically toxic cuts to so-called mandatory programs.Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

Uber and Airbnb have turned the sharing economy into a global phenomenon, but the next big thing in peer-to-peer online rental services may carry a Made-in-New Mexico stamp.

Skipti, the new platform, will launch in June to connect owners of household goods with people who want to rent them, courtesy of longtime Albuquerque entrepreneurs Rich and Ioana Engstrom.

Its been two years in the making, starting with Rich Engstroms original Skipti eureka! moment in fall 2015, followed by an 18-month effort to build foundational software in partnership with Romanian engineers. In the process, the Engstroms have assembled a team of internet professionals to take the business forward.

That includes renowned sharing-economy guru Juan Pablo Puerta, a Spaniard who built craigslist into a worldwide brand and who led international expansion efforts for Yahoo Search, Etsy and SoundCloud. Puerta came out of semi-retirement to lead Skipti as CEO because of the concepts potential.

Its a model that makes sense, with a platform thats built to basically rent out anything, Puerta said. Skipti is fundamentally an Airbnb for everything.

Through Skipti, which means exchange in Icelandic, people with things to rent can rapidly upload photos and descriptions of items onto the platform with a suggested price tag. They log rental availability onto Skiptis built-in calendar, allowing renters to select items and pay for them with a few finger clicks. That automatically alerts Skipti partner Deliv.co to pick up the rented good from its owner, deliver it to the renter and return it again afterward based on the times and dates logged on the calendar.

Unlike other sharing platforms, that process eliminates meet-ups, making transactions safer and easier for participating parties, said Ioana Engstrom, the companys head of investor relations. All rental items are insured against theft, breakage or bodily injury.

Owners can rent practically anything, from cameras, costumes and party stuff to tools, baby equipment or even books for students, Ioana said. They can also create bundled rentals, say for a weekend camping trip with all the needed equipment delivered in a single package.

Skipti earns a 15 percent charge on each transaction, but the company says cost comparisons for dozens of household items show Skipti renters could save an average of 42 percent compared with traditional rental services.

Skipti basically puts everybodys excess capacity to work by pulling idle goods out of closets and garages, said Rich Engstrom.

Its the same concept as Uber, where people who dont use their car all the time can now make money off that excess capacity by connecting up with people who need rides, he said. But in this case, theres no driving around at night, and someone else will pick up the items and return them to owners.

Some estimates indicate that about $1.6 trillion in excess stuff is sitting around unused in U.S. homes, Engstrom added.

The Skipti concept is based on todays growing population of baby boomers and others who live on fixed incomes and need extra money. That, combined with the millennial generations preference for renting or leasing things rather than owning them, constitutes the companys target market.

The official launch starts June 16 in Boston, chosen for its millennial population of university students, large community of fixed-income homes and the citys reputation for embracing sharing services like Uber and Airbnb. The initial launch will last three months, providing critical feedback to improve Skiptis platform before spreading nationwide and beyond, Ioana said.

Company executives have invested nearly $1 million of their own sweat equity and capital. Theyve also raised $500,000 in seed funding and are now working on a $2.5 million round of venture investment with help from a Utah fund.

The company will remain headquartered in Albuquerque, where the Engstroms and two other Skipti executives live. The full eight-member team, however, meets virtually every week at RIEtech Global, a manufacturing company run by Rich Engstrom in the north Interstate 25 industrial corridor.

All the executives have their own businesses, but theyre now focusing full time on Skipti.

Weve all stepped back from operational roles in our own companies to dive into this, because we believe it could be bigger than anything weve done before, said Skipti Chief Branding Officer Lynn Platow, a digital design executive from New York.Ten years ago this month, Patricia Rue woke up from what was supposed to be minimally invasive spine surgery and found herself in hell.

I was in so much pain, I was screaming, Please help me. What was going on, I didnt know. But I knew that my body felt like it was on fire.

A decade later, a federal bankruptcy judge has put a dollar amount on the pain, suffering, loss and disability Rue experiences to this day from the disastrous and untested bone cement spinal treatment  $2.3 million.

U.S. Bankruptcy Chief Judge Robert H. Jacobvitz of Albuquerque awarded three other former patients another $10 million in damages, after finding that Quorum Health Resources of Tennessee breached its duty to prevent harm to patients at Gerald Champion Regional Hospital in Alamogordo from 2007 to 2008.

The damage assessment against Quorum, which supplied top executives for the hospital, is the first time in the protracted litigation that a judge has determined the amount of harm suffered by individual plaintiffs.

Its been a long time coming. Its taken many years, and its good to see things resolved, said Rue, who lives with her husband outside Ruidoso. But it doesnt change anything in our lives, physically, mentally and healthwise.

There are dozens more former patients whose cases are still pending. Unless there is a settlement, they will have to endure a trial to assess their individual damages.

Some are more injured than others. Some are so frail they may not make it to court. Several have died waiting.

All, like Rue, unwittingly put their trust in the small Alamogordo hospital, its corporate manager, and two physicians who once touted the money-making hot bone cement treatment as a new way to ease back pain.

Our entire group of clients are extremely grateful that by his verdicts, Judge Jacobvitz has recognized the extent that their lives were so devastated by what was done to them a decade ago in Alamogordo, said attorney Greig Coates. Quorum, through its attorney, didnt immediately return a request for comment.

Rue, 64, recalled how scared she was after her bone cement surgery in 2008. She couldnt stand up, because she was numb.

Even now, she told the Journal, there are times that I wake up in the morning, and say, One day, if I had one day without pain, it would be a great day. One day with less pain would be a great day, but I dont have that.

Patient malpractice and negligence claims, which grew to nearly 80 over the years, forced the hospital to seek bankruptcy court protection in 2011. A partial settlement involving the physicians, Christian Schlicht and Frank Bryant, and the hospital totalled more than $33 million. But for years, Quorum resisted settling the cases. In late 2016, Jacobvitz determined that the hospital management firm was 16.5 percent culpable for its negligence.

Last summer, the judge held a trial to assess damages, beginning with four of the former patients. Quorum attorneys argued that their pain, numbness, weakness and other debilitating symptoms were the result of prior back problems  not the bone cement injections.

But Jacobvitz, in his ruling on Jan. 30, concluded that the pre-existing conditions were aggravated by the harmful cement treatments and that the four were entitled to damages that reflected the extent of the aggravation.

Earlier evidence in the case showed that Quorums CEOs at the 99-bed hospital had been warned by two outside physicians in 2007 that the bone cement treatments were dangerous and that the inventor, Schlicht, wasnt qualified to perform spinal surgeries. But the spinal procedures continued through late 2008, when Schlicht resigned over a pay dispute. Bryant, an orthopedic surgeon, is now working in Roswell.

Theres anger we all feel and the distress, Rue said. Its not just directed at one person. There were so many involved in this. It was a doctor and his partner who were going to make a lot of money, and then the hospital, and they turned and looked the other way. They didnt care. They dont care about us.

Rue, who first developed back problems in 2000 after working at her familys fruit stand and gift shop outside Ruidoso, relies on her family for support.

There are days I wake up and I say, OK, Im having a pity party today and my husband Gary (Rue) will say, OK, youre entitled and Ill cry and feel sorry for myself wondering how did I get to this point? Im not supposed to be here like this.

She said she is too afraid to have surgery to remove the cement.

Even now, when I get a different pain or something that doesnt feel quite right, all those things scare me. Because I dont know what this stuff is doing inside me. Is it shattered or has it moved? If any of this stuff breaks, it could cause more damage. I still have mobility, but its limited. I dont want to be in a wheelchair. Im scared.

Over the years of court hearings and meetings with attorneys, Rue said she has seen the deterioration in other former patients. Some who once walked unaided are now in wheelchairs.

Am I seeing anybody getting better? No. Are we all looking for help? Yes. Are we being turned away by some doctors, because some doctors will not touch any of us because they dont want to be part of this? Yes.

Last year, when Rue testified about her condition in court, sitting in the audience was Edna Morton, who lives with her husband, Royce, near Las Cruces.

Several months earlier in Houston, Morton underwent spinal surgery to try to ease her pain from the bone cement treatment. Her post-surgical X-rays showed an extensive attempt at spine reconstruction, including the insertion of metal supports.

Morton, 82, told the Journal on Friday that she hopes she will be among those selected for the next damages trial.

I think they need to hear my story, she said.  Id like to tell them how I have suffered and am still suffering. Its been a tough row to hoe.Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

Plastic shoe boxes and bags filled with mint, chamomile and many other plants still line the old wooden shelves at the historic B. Ruppe Drugs pharmacy building in Barelas.

Books and notes scribbled by pharmacy co-owner and community icon Maclovia Sanchez de Zamora still stock the back medicine racks.

Some of what remains of her and her husbands collection of Catholic devotional statues, art and rosaries still bring color and reverence to the store space, which has been out of full service for years as Zamora phased out her herbal healing practice in her older age.

After helping keep alive one of the states longest continuously running pharmacies and serving as a community and cultural anchor, Zamora passed away at age 86 in December.

Now the building that hosted her lifes work and that is marked with a large mural of her is part of the revitalization effort for the neighborhood.

It has been purchased by a local nonprofit agency and is set to become, possibly, a cafe/store/community gathering and education center where Zamoras legacy of herbalism and traditional healing can continue.

We are going to refresh the property but keep what was historically here. So neighbors are coming and giving their input about that they want, said Lucas Pedraza, program manager for the Barelas Mainstreet project with the Barelas Community Coalition. The whole concept is: How do we bring the creative economy to Barelas?

Barelas, from the railroad to the river and from about Coal to Bridge SW, is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city with Spanish records dating to the 1600s. It once hosted a thriving railroad community, the buildings for which are coming back to life with the last years Rail Yards Markets success.

Pedraza and the coalition are hoping the pharmacy building will augment, if not anchor, the revitalization of the entire Barelas area Fourth Street corridor in the same way Zamora served as community healer.

We got to meet Maclovia before she passed away, and it was a win-win situation, said Elena Gonzales, director of Albuquerque operations for Homewise, the nonprofit that purchased the building. The Barelas Community Coalition is coming up with these fantastic ideas to really keep some of the traditional healing, but also make it fit and add things that neighbors in the community want and need.

Exactly what that will be isnt clear as the BCC is still in the process of a series of community meetings and planning sessions. Plus, some major renovations, like the roof and HVAC system, must be tackled first.

Homewise, which helps people become homeowners, plans to pay for the building rehab, renovation and possibly the commercial kitchen.

The BCC will in turn, as it works, lease to own the building. It also plans to use several grants it has received to get the project off the ground.

Some of the dominant ideas so far for the space on Fourth Street a few blocks south of Coal include a cafe, where possibly an entrepreneur from the area or other community development programs could launch a business. There will likely be a library with Zamoras books and notes, a part of the store to keep (Maclovias) memory alive, Pedraza said.

And that memory is alive.

On Thursday, as the BCC hosted the first of its B. Ruppe Pre-Opening Sale & Silent Auction days at the store, shoppers and old customers perused the items on auction.

Theresa Bourguet, Gonzales sister, looked over the medicinal and religious oils for sale and recalled her time as a customer nearly 45 years ago when she was 16.

Shed just severely burned her hand in a firework accident. Days of attention from physicians failed to keep her wounds from worsening, let alone healing. Then her mother took her to the pharmacy, just a few blocks from her house.

The doctors said your hand will always be like that, Bourguet said, scrunching her hand in a claw. I came in, paid a few dollars and they sent me home with a salve. Now look, not a scar. I loved these people. They were so kind. They were truly caring people.

Tey Marianna Nunn, curator of the Art Museum and Visual Arts Program at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, toured the store Friday, looking over the herbs and statues.

This is a historical place, Nunn said. It should be saved and recognized. Maclovia was quite a special person.

Journal staff photographer Marla Brose contributed to this report.

Sale and silent auction

Every day until Friday, Feb. 1610 a.m. to 2 p.m.Fourth B. Ruppe Drugs pharmacy

807 SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102

The Barelas Community Coalition is hosting a silent auction and sale. Come visit the store, share your memories, scoop your favorite herbs and remedies, religious statues, rosaries, and support the new vision moving forward.

Community meeting

Tonight , 5:30 p.m.

1024 Fourth St.

Discuss the revitalization project, whats in store, and how to be a part of it.The University of New Mexicos next president will have at least one high-ranking position to fill when she takes over next month.

University Counsel Elsa Kircher Cole announced her impending retirement in a Feb. 8 letter to interim UNM President Chaouki Abdallah. Cole will leave June 1, a departure her letter calls consistent with a long-intended plan.

When I took this position in May 2013, I made a commitment to myself and my family that five years in it would be an appropriate amount of time to honor my fathers memory, Cole wrote of her dad, a UNM alum, in her letter. I can think of no better job in the legal profession than assisting a university achieve its mission of teaching, research and community service.

Before UNM, Cole spent 13 years as general counsel for the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

Her announcement comes just three weeks before a leadership change at UNM. Garnett Stokes will assume the presidency March 1.

School policy dictates that UNM conduct a national search for the university counsel position and that the president inform the Board of Regents before making an appointment.

The Office of University Counsel has 11 attorneys, including Cole, between its main campus and Health Sciences Center offices. Cole makes $246,000 annually, according to UNMs sunshine portal.

Coles name has appeared in many recent media reports, as she helped coordinate the schools outside investigations into various allegations against head football coach Bob Davie and his program. Cole said through a UNM spokeswoman that her retirement announcement is unrelated.NABI SALEH, West Bank  Palestinian protest icon Ahed Tamimi is to go on trial before an Israeli military court on Tuesday for slapping and punching two Israeli soldiers  an act Palestinians say embodies their David vs. Goliath struggle against a brutal military occupation and Israel portrays as a staged provocation meant to embarrass its military.

Israels full-throttle prosecution of Tamimi, one of an estimated 300 Palestinian minors in Israeli jails, and a senior Israeli officials recent stunning revelation that he once had parliament investigate whether the blond, blue-eyed Tamimis are a real Palestinian family have helped stoke ongoing interest in the case.

The teen with the curly mane of hair who turned 17 in jail last month has become the latest symbol of the long-running battle between Palestinians and Israelis over global public opinion.

The case touches on what constitutes legitimate resistance to Israels rule over millions of Palestinians, already in its 51st year after Israel captured the West Bank, Gaza Strip and east Jerusalem in 1967.

Ahed Tamimis supporters see a brave girl who struck two armed soldiers outside her West Bank home in frustration after having just learned that Israeli troops seriously wounded a 15-year-old cousin, shooting him in the head from close range with a rubber bullet during nearby stone-throwing clashes.

Israel has treated Tamimis actions as a criminal offense, indicting her on charges of assault and incitement that could potentially land her in prison for several years.

Tamimis middle-of-the-night arrest from her home in December and her pre-trial court appearances, flanked by Israeli guards and looking impassive, have evoked a sense of history on a loop. Another generation of Palestinians seems locked in a cycle of protests and arrests by Israel, three decades after Palestinians staged their first uprising, throwing stones and burning tires in the streets.

Since the mid-1990s, several U.S.-mediated rounds of Israeli-Palestinian negotiations on setting up a Palestinian state alongside Israel have ended in failure. Gaps in positions only widened in the past decade, as Israeli settlement expansion continued and the Palestinians failed to end a crippling political split between an internationally backed self-rule government in parts of the West Bank and the Islamic militant group Hamas which dominates Gaza.

Tamimis father Bassem, who threw his first stone at the age of 14 and was an activist in the first uprising, said he expects the military court will deal harshly with his daughter and that she might remain in prison for some time.

His wife, Nariman, is being prosecuted in the same Dec. 15 scuffle in their village of Nabi Saleh and has been locked up alongside their daughter.

Since 2009, residents of Nabi Salah have staged regular anti-occupation protests that often ended with stone-throwing clashes. Ahed Tamimi has participated in such marches from a young age, and has had several highly publicized run-ins with soldiers. One photo shows the then 12-year-old raising a clenched fist toward a soldier towering over her.

Despite the personal pain, the father said he is optimistic heading into the courtroom and that he believes he is witnessing progress.

He argues that his daughters case and the outpouring of support for her  more than 1.7 million people have already signed an online petition calling for her release  signal the beginning of the final chapter of Israels occupation.

I see that we are starting the turning point in our history, to deal with our occupier and colonization in a different way, said Tamimi. Yes, there is a price (to pay)  but this generation Ahed represents will be the generation of freedom.

In Israel, several senior officials have called for harsh punishment of Ahed Tamimi.

She is not a little girl, she is a terrorist, said Culture Minister Miri Regev, alleging that Tamimi has been manipulated by what she described as extreme leftist elements promoting the idea of a bi-national state for Israelis and Palestinians.

Its about time they will understand that people like her have to be in jail and not be allowed to incite to racism and subversion against the state of Israel, Regev told The Associated Press.

Commentators disagreed on the potential impact of the trial.

Columnist Jeff Barak, a former editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post daily, wrote last month that the two soldiers showed admirable restraint, but that Israels hard-charging prosecution of Tamimi has been counterproductive.

Tamimi is no existential threat to Israel, and all the authorities have achieved, in their desperation for revenge on a young girl who in some peoples eyes humiliated two soldiers, is to turn her into the perfect poster girl for Palestinian protest against the occupation, he wrote.

Yaakov Amidror, a former national security adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said he does not expect the trial to hurt Israels image, arguing that those who are against Israel will be against it if she (Tamimi) is brought to court or if she is not.

In Nabi Saleh, Bassem Tamimi has used the interest in his daughters case to generate more support, saying he has hosted hundreds of foreigners in his home since her Dec. 19 arrest. His living room is decorated with several Free Ahed posters and one of Nariman.

On a recent morning, he met with volunteer observers from Switzerland, Sweden, Colombia, Argentina and Britain, going over the details of Aheds case and explaining his political views, including his support for a bi-national state in which Israelis and Palestinians enjoy equal rights.

The visitors, part of a program that typically has them touring the West Bank for three months, listened intently and jotted down some of what he said. Your notes will be part of history in the near future, he told them. And we will put it in a museum.

The visit ended with hugs, tears and a group photo on his porch, against the backdrop of Nabi Saleh, a village of about 600 members of the extended Tamimi clan.

After the group left, Bassem Tamimi got word that Hebrew graffiti had popped up on several walls in the village, but that teenagers were trying to cover up the threatening messages.

He rushed to the area, a few hundred meters (yards) from an army watchtower at the edge of the village, to try to preserve what he felt were valuable tools in the PR battle with Israel.

The first slogan called for the death penalty for Ahed. A second read: The Tamimi family has no place in the Land of Israel. A third warned: Greetings from the retaliation branch of the IDF.

As he took photos and video to be posted on social media, a dozen teenagers, some masked, headed toward the watchtower for weekly stone-throwing clashes with soldiers.

Worried that they might try to spray over the graffiti, Tamimi shouted, Leave it, leave it, as the group walked past him.

The boys began throwing stones toward a main road that separates Nabi Saleh from the Israeli settlement of Halamish, built in part on expropriated village land. Several soldiers arrived and fired stun grenades and rubber coated steel pellets.

From her second-floor balcony, Fattoum Tartier, a 41-year-old English teacher, kept an eye on her 11-year-old son, Hussein, in the street below to make sure he didnt join the clashes.

I want my children to live a good life, like everyone else in other parts of the world, she said, her words punctuated by the booms from stun grenades.Michael Pelkey had worked at the Smiths gas station in Edgewood off Interstate 40 for more than a decade.

Then, on Sunday, as he was going about his work day police say the 62-year-old gas station attendant from Estancia was shot and killed by an armed robber who fled the scene.

The suspect had still not been found Monday night.

New Mexico State Police officers investigating the case say around 4 p.m Sunday an armed robber, wearing a bandanna over his face and carrying a semi-automatic handgun, entered the station on NM 344, south of the interstate, and demanded money. Its unclear how much he got.

During the robbery the Smiths Fuel Center attendant was shot, Officer Carl Christiansen, an NMSP spokesman, wrote in a news release. He was transported from the scene and later died at the hospital.

Chrisiansen said the suspect is a Hispanic or white male between 25 and 30 years old and between 5 feet 10 inches tall and 6 feet tall with a thin build. He was driving a white pickup truck, possibly a Ford, that had been captured on security camera footage.

In the stills from the footage, it appears the truck has writing on the passenger side door. Christiansen said they are working on enhancing the photograph in order to be able to read it.

Were hoping its a local instead of just someone off I 40, Christiansen said.

He said they dont know which way the suspect fled.

The shooting has reverberated around rural Edgewood, which has had only a handful of violent crimes in recent years.

A corporate affairs manager with Smiths Food & Drug released a statement Monday saying they are shocked by the shooting and are mourning Pelkeys loss.

Smiths management is meeting with our Edgewood store associates and offering professional counseling through this difficult time,

Aubriana Martindale wrote in an email. We are working with police during this investigation to provide whatever support required to apprehend the perpetrator of this criminal act.

Alan Carabajal, who lives a couple of miles from the gas station, said he worked at the Smiths Fuel Center when Pelkey was hired and they would still talk in passing about three times a week at the station.

He was the face of Edgewood, Carabajal said. Everybody knows him. He really was a good man.

Tips: Police ask anyone with information about the case to contact agent Janice Madrid at (505) 841-9265 or JaniceL.Madrid@state.nm.us or Sgt Thomas Christian at Thomas.Christian@state.nm.us.SEATTLE  Boeings lawyers, still smarting from the shock of losing their U.S. trade-court case against Bombardiers CSeries jets, are now awaiting an imminent ruling in a bigger trade fight over government subsidies.

In a case against Airbus thats slogged on for nearly 15 years and has seemed endless, Boeing now insists its within sight of a final victory.

And though the dispute long predates President Donald Trump, his administrations hard-nosed America First posture on trade disputes  ready to impose tariffs rather than negotiating settlements  adds a new edge of rancor and risk.

The U.S. filed suit against Airbus at the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2004, and since then the gears of that court have ground slowly without any perceivable impact.

Yet Boeings top lawyer, Michael Luttig, said in an interview that the law is about to catch up with Airbus and the European Union (EU).

Boeing committed itself some 15 years ago  and it has never blinked since, said Luttig. Today, we are months away from the imposition of tariffs.

Airbus is staring back, also refusing to blink.

A senior Airbus executive and trade lawyer, who asked not to be named because of the continuing legal proceedings, compared Luttigs threat of tariffs to a nuclear strike and pointed to the parallel EU case before the WTO that accuses Boeing of taking subsidies.

The EU would be well-prepared to respond in kind and with much greater force, said the Airbus legal executive. The EU will survive that first nuclear strike and will retaliate with megatons to the U.S.s kilotons.

In a speech in London last month, Airbus CEO Tom Enders said that under Trump, the U.S. is no longer fighting for opening markets but to close the U.S. market to  foreign competitors.

Citing the CSeries case, he accused Boeing of ruthlessly surfing on this America-First wave.

The risk that a multinational trade war could erupt with some of the nations closest allies looks suddenly higher.

A WTO endgame

In September 2016, after multiple procedural steps and appeals, the last ruling in the United States WTO case against Airbus found that the European jet maker had fallen far short of remedying the harm to Boeing from illegal subsidies.

The EU immediately appealed. Whats ahead this year, by late spring, is the final decision on that appeal.

Boeings lawyers expect the court to largely uphold the 2016 decision. And Boeing says, thats it. Its the end of the appeals.

If Airbus loses, said Bob Novick, Boeings outside counsel on the WTO dispute since 2003 and former general counsel to the U.S. Trade Representative, the U.S. would then immediately request authorization to impose retaliatory sanctions.

Boeing anticipates that the WTO will set the level of sanctions at $10 billion to $15 billion.

The U.S. government could then slap punitive tariffs up to that amount on whatever EU goods it selects for maximum political impact.

Boeings tough talk may be partly a negotiating ploy. Still, if the WTO hands this loaded weapon to the U.S. government, its unlikely the Trump administrations trade hawks will be shy about using it.

Jeff Bialos, a partner in the international law firm Eversheds Sutherland and a former Commerce Department official handling major trade litigation, said that typically at such an endpoint in a trade dispute, the two governments would negotiate some agreed settlement.

The issue is, will the Trump administration, with its views on trade  have the ability to negotiate solutions? Bialos said. The jury is out. We are going into uncharted waters.

Bill Perry, a Seattle-based international trade lawyer with Harris Bricken and a former U.S. Commerce Department attorney, thinks Trump will take a very hard line.

He pointed to the administrations imposition last month of tariffs on imported solar panels, to punish China for selling finished panels in the U.S. below their cost, and on washing machines, targeting Korean manufacturers.

Could this be the first row of bricks in a protectionist wall Trump intends to put up? Perry asked.

At the very least, the stage looks set for brinkmanship, if not an open trade war.

A duel with pistols drawn

Boeing lawyers expect the imminent threat of tariffs to focus minds in the EU and perhaps to precipitate settlement talks in which they would then have the upper hand.

The top Airbus executive warned that Boeing is on the hook for its own illegal subsidies in the parallel WTO case filed by the EU  and so whatever the U.S. does, the EU can and will match.

Boeing can try for sanctions. And if they do, we will too, he said.

In the EU case against Boeing, the last ruling in June found that Boeing had failed to remedy the harm to Airbus from just one set of subsidies: the tax reduction that was part of Washington states aerospace incentives.

Boeing has appealed that ruling.

An awkward detail for the EU is that its case against Boeing was filed as a countersuit some nine months after the U.S. filed against Airbus, and so it lags the U.S. case by roughly that amount of time.

The decision on Boeings appeal wont come out until late this year or even next year. In the meantime, the U.S. may act.

The Airbus executive dismissed the delay between the cases  a few months  as insignificant.

He compared it to a pistol duel, where one person gets to fire first, but knows that the other will survive and will get a chance to fire back.

The EU will have plenty of ammunition, he contended. When the time comes to add up the compensation needed, he said the EU will count every airplane Boeing sells, including future sales.

Every sale of a 787 is a subsidized sale and every one will count against Boeing when judgment day comes, the Airbus executive said.

Trade war consequences

If Boeings 15-year pursuit of Airbus at the WTO has been tenacious, the legal attack it launched on Bombardier last April was even more fiercely aggressive. And even though it failed, pushing the case had consequences for Boeing.

Geoffrey Gertz, a researcher on the politics of trade at the Washington, D.C.-based Brookings Institution, pointed out that in the Delta jet sale won by Bombardiers CSeries that was central to the case, there wasnt much at stake for Boeing because it wasnt offering its own jets against the smaller aircraft.

Yet pursuing the case alienated both the Canadian and British governments, putting at risk large defense contracts, including a contract to supply Canada with F/A-18 jet fighters valued at more than $5 billion.

It also antagonized major commercial-airplane customer Delta.



2018 The Seattle Times

Visit The Seattle Times at www.seattletimes.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

-

PHOTO (for help with images, contact 312-222-4194):

_____TRENTON, N.J.  A New Jersey appeals court on Monday turned down a request from environmental groups and a former state senator to undo a $225 million pollution settlement between the state and Exxon Mobil.

Appellate Division Judge Carmen Messano, writing on behalf of the three-judge panel, said that the trial judge had not made a mistake in judgment when he approved the deal in 2015. The ruling means that the environmental groups and former state Sen. Raymond Lesniak have  for now  failed in their effort to tear up a 2015 agreement between Republican Gov. Chris Christies administration and the Texas petroleum company.

The groups and Lesniak instead wanted the state to extract more money from Exxon, reflecting the $8.9 billion that the state had earlier estimated it was owed.

We find no mistaken exercise of the judges discretion in finding the consent judgment was fair, reasonable, consistent with the Spill Acts goals, and in the public interest, Messano wrote in the 47-page opinion.

Exxon spokeswoman Suann Guthrie said the Irving, Texas-based company agrees with the courts decision. A spokesman for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection said the state had nothing to add, and that the ruling spoke for itself.

Doug OMalley, the director of Environment New Jersey, one of the groups seeking to stop the settlement, expressed optimism that new Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy would tear up the deal and seek more natural resources damages cash from Exxon.

We didnt win the battle today, OMalley said. But we think we won the war by fighting this and getting a governor whos not willing to sell out the people of New Jersey.

Murphys spokesman deferred to the state attorney generals office. A spokesman for the attorney general said the office had no comment.

Despite declining to overturn trial Judge Michael Hogans 2015 ruling, the appeals court on Monday ruled that the groups had standing to appeal.

The groups, then, could seek relief from the New Jersey Supreme Court, and OMalley and Sierra Club director Jeff Tittel said the groups are considering that option.

Lesniak, who left office this year, did not have standing to appeal, the court ruled. He said in a statement to The Associated Press that he will appeal to the Supreme Court.

A third part of the ruling said the groups lacked standing to intervene at the trial court level, upholding a lower court ruling.

The states legal fight against Exxon dates to 2004, when New Jerseys Department of Environmental Protection brought a suit against Exxon over decades of pollution at two oil refineries in Bayonne and Linden.

A months-long trial was about to result in Hogans decision when Christies administration and Exxon announced the settlement.

The 2015 deal also included the settlement of claims concerning more than 1,000 retail gas station sites and additional refinery locations across the state that were not initially part of the litigation.

Hogan approved the deal and Lesniak and the groups  the New Jersey Sierra Club, Environment New Jersey, Clean Water Action and the Delaware Riverkeeper Network  have fought the decision since.

Christie had praised the deal as the biggest settlement of its kind in state history and the second-largest natural resources damages settlement with a single corporate defendant in the nations history.MINNEAPOLIS  Tens of thousands of soybean and cotton farmers across the country are taking free but mandatory training in how to properly use a weed killer blamed for drifting and damaging crops in neighboring fields.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency required the training and other restrictions last fall in a deal with three major agribusiness companies  Monsanto, BASF and DuPont. All three make special formulations of dicamba for use on new soybean and cotton varieties that are genetically engineered to resist the herbicide, using seed technology commercialized by Monsanto. The products are increasingly popular because they give farmers a new weapon against aggressive weeds such as pigweed that have become resistant to other herbicides such as glyphosate, also known as Roundup.

Farmers have used dicamba on a smaller scale for decades. Its tendency to vaporize and drift led the three companies to develop less-volatile formulations for dicamba-tolerant crops, which came into widespread use last year. But farmers who planted older, non-resistant varieties and didnt use dicamba soon began reporting damage to their crops and blamed nearby farms that did use it.

It takes focus and time to learn to apply a new product.  Training and education is critical, said Scott Partridge, Monsantos vice president for global strategy.

The in-person training sessions are kicking into high gear this month and in March. Monsanto is confident that the training will sharply reduce drift problems this season, Partridge said. Over 91 percent of off-target applications last season were a result of farmers not following the label instructions, he said. In Georgia, where training was already mandatory, he said, the state received no complaints of dicamba drift last year.

Monsanto held its first of several sessions in Minnesota on Monday. The company expects to hold several thousand nationwide eventually, Partridge said. BASF and DuPont are making similar pushes across farm country. The manufacturers are conducting the sessions in 26 states, while government agencies in seven others hold similar trainings.

The trainings cover everything from choosing the right spray nozzles, sprayer heights, proper pressures, spray rig speeds, wind speeds and other weather conditions, and best practices for cleaning equipment. They last only about 1 hours, but he said thats sufficient to drive home the key points because Monsanto also provides a technical support phone number and other tools. For farmers who dont have the proper nozzles, Monsanto plans to hand out over 1 million, free of charge. It will also roll out a smartphone app to give farmers real-time weather conditions for their fields.

Nearly 26 million acres were planted in dicamba-tolerant varieties last year, including over 20 million acres of soybeans. Monsanto expects the number of dicamba-tolerant soybean acres will likely double this year, Partridge said, based on the demand the company is seeing from growers. Tests by both Monsanto and independent academic researchers show a 5.7 bushel-per-acre yield increase compared with another popular weed control system for soybeans, he said.

Were excited about it and want to do everything we can to make sure that folks have the best experience possible in 2018, Partridge said.

The new federal restrictions, which made dicamba a restricted use pesticide, limit its use to days when winds are under 10 mph and include new record-keeping requirements. But some states have imposed additional restrictions.

Arkansas had the most crop-damage complaints in the country last year at nearly 1,000 and adopted the toughest rules. The state banned dicamba in most cases from April 16-Oct. 31, which essentially rules out using it on soybeans. Monsanto has sued to block that ban from taking effect. Minnesota, which received 253 complaints, set a June 20 cutoff date and prohibited applications on days when temperatures exceed 85 degrees. North Dakota cuts off applications at June 30 or the crops first bloom phase, whichever comes first.

Mike Petefish, who farms around 5,000 acres near Claremont in Dodge County of southern Minnesota, said he expects the training sessions will be popular. Farmers generally accept the new restrictions, he said.

I know farmers are really concerned about keeping the product, said Petefish, also president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association. I know that for some who have serious herbicide resistance problems with weeds, there really isnt any other product available.

Gregg Regimbal, a pesticide manager with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, said the training material certainly looks thorough to me. Training offered in one state will be accepted in the other states that allow the companies to conduct it, he said.

Monsanto and other manufacturers are being sued by farmers who say their crops were damaged by the herbicide last year. Many of those cases have been consolidated in federal court in St. Louis, Missouri. An Arkansas jury in December convicted a man of second-degree murder in the shooting of a farmer who accused him of using dicamba and damaging his crops.Chicago was hit with a snowstorm over the weekend, and Jahmal Coles inbox blew up with requests from elderly neighbors: They needed help shoveling in front of their homes. Some had to get relatives to a hospital. Others had oxygen tanks and were afraid of being trapped.

So Cole sent out a tweet Friday night asking for 10 volunteers to come to his neighborhood, Chatham, on the South Side of Chicago, to shovel the foot of snow that was accumulating. Chatham is a community thats largely elderly and African American.

When he went to the train station Saturday morning to see whether anyone had showed up to help, he couldnt believe what he saw. About 120 people stood on the platform, many with shovels, ready to work.

They came from all backgrounds and all parts of the city.

The people who showed up, they showed that whether people have privilege or dont have privilege, everyone recognizes a need, said Cole, a community organizer.

His tweet has been shared by more than 22,000 people and was liked 64,000 times. The majority of the volunteers were from outside Chatham.

One man had taken a bus from Indiana, Cole said. A 70-year-old woman came with her own shovel, ready to dig in.

Cole tweeted: Chicago, I need (10) volunteers to help me shovel for seniors tomorrow. Im getting too many emails from elderly folks that need help. Meet me at the 79th St. Red Line stop at 10:00 am tomorrow. I got hoodies, hats and lunch for anybody that comes through.

 Jahmal Cole (@formyblockchi) February 10, 2018

He sent the volunteers out to dozens of addresses that needed snow cleared. But not everyone came with their own shovel, and Cole quickly realized he needed more. So he ran to a store and bought 25 of them.

Cole, 34, runs a nonprofit organization called My Block My Hood My City, and he said the money for the shovels came from sweatshirts he had sold on his website. The group helps kids on the South Side expand their horizons beyond their neighborhoods. But the snow shoveling wasnt an official initiative of his organization. He just wanted to help his neighbors.

When youre getting emails and calls, you dont want to let people down, said Cole, who was born and raised in Chatham. I wasnt trying to make a campaign. This was literally me trying to help out my neighbors. We had to organize on the spot.

He said his request received so much attention that people from across the country started offering money and wanted to buy him a snowblower.

Im a really, really small nonprofit. We have two full-time staff, two part-time staff, he said. I dont have anywhere to put a snowblower. I put all these shovels in my own garage. I dont even have an office space.

After shoveling dozens of sidewalks and walkways, a job that lasted until about 3 p.m., Cole and the volunteers went out together to have lunch at a neighborhood restaurant.

Im proud of our city. Were getting things done, Cole said. People could have been doing anything in the world. They could have been home with families or making snowmen, but they came out to help.

More people showed up Sunday, a smaller group, and they continued to shovel.

Cole said that he has been shoveling for his neighbors for years and that for the past several years, he has put out a call for volunteers. In the past, he has gotten about 20 helpers. He said hes not sure what made so many people respond this year.

It represents an enthusiasm this city hasnt seen in a while, he said.TBWA India has introduced its specialist consulting practice to further leverage its proprietary Disruption operating system to solve significant business problems and unlock growth strategies for brands in 21st century.

The primary agenda of this unit is to craft the 2.0 for businesses. It will draw a new OS for the business that unlocks its fundamental story for the times we are living in, where this story will be designed, told and lived.

As an illustration, Airbnb unlocked its real story as a human hospitality brand, where travellers share homes and lives. This disrupted the global hotel industry and framed Airbnb as a category of one.

The disruption practice is driven by Backlash (@tbwabackslash)  a 365-day editorial practice of tracking emergent culture conversations that gives it an edge in monitoring micro as well as tectonic shifts in culture on a daily basis.

In addition to this, the practice is powered by Bench  a proprietary in-source talent model, made up of a wide range of specialists that exist in and outside of the TBWA collective. The pool of talent is an agile and flexible set of experts that can be brought on board in no time if the project requires it.

Todays marketing feels like being on a treadmill. One keeps running, but does not go anywhere. That is why Disruption is a powerful tool for todays times. This unique worldview allows us to unlock the growth narrative for any business agnostic of their life-stage, said Govind Pandey, CEO of TBWA.

The Disruption Consulting practice is working on mandates for VIP Industries, Open Magazine and Fractal Analytics, to name a few. It is confident of more mandates coming its way, with its promise of discontinuous solutions,over endless cups of great tasting masala tea!

We have put together a diverse bunch of story designers (strategists, visual and verbal designers) who are already dirtying their hands on a wide variety of issues for our client partners. Our solutions arent just fresh, they energise clients to imagine new possibilities while our thoroughness in bringing these solutions to life doubles their confidence in them, remarked Krishnan Subramanian, Chief of Strategy at TBWA.

To Read More Advertising Related Stories Click Here.With car enthusiasts gathering at the largest automobile show in India, Twitter plans to rev up the excitement with live stream activations on the platform, as part of an in-stream video sponsorship with Tata Motors (@TataMotors) and Rolling Stone India (@RollingStoneIN). Project #RollingWithNexon will see Rolling Stone India (@RollingStoneIN) in conversation with two of Indias biggest homegrown music artists - rock artist Dhruv Visvanath (@mrdhruvv) and the critically acclaimed Indian band, Parikrama (@parikrama) - all happening live on Twitter from the Auto Expo.

Embeddable Tweet: https://twitter.com/RollingStoneIN/status/961515522146803713

The artistes will perform live from a pop-up Twitter #BlueRoom at the Auto Expo and entertain their fans onsite and on Twitter with their musical prowess. The episodes are sponsored by Tata Motor and will feature as part of Tata Motors Nexon launch at the Auto Expo. In addition, Dhruv Visvanath (@mrdhruvv) and Parikrama (@parikrama) will also indulge in a live Q&A session with host/curator Rolling Stone India Executive Editor Nirmika Singh (@nirmika) who will pick their minds with intriguing questions and quizzes, ensuring viewers get to see a side of their favourite artists theyve never seen before. Video highlights from the #RollingWithNexon collaboration will feature as part of Tata Motors launch of their new vehicle Nexon on Twitter.

Fans can watch the live-stream sessions on Twitter via (@RollingStoneIN), available to logged-in and logged-out users on Twitter, and connected devices globally. In addition, fans can Tweet their questions for both Dhruv, Parikrama or about the Nexon with the hashtag #RollingWithNexon. The first live stream session featuring Dhruv will begin on 12th February 2018, at 12:00 PM IST. The second live stream performance featuring Parikrama will begin on 14th February 2018, at 12:00PM IST.

Commenting on the collaboration, Keya Madhvani, Head - Music & Lifestyle Partnerships, Twitter India said, Twitter is where people come to find out whats happening in their world. Weve a strong partnership with Rolling Stone India and are thrilled to bring Tata Motors and Rolling Stone together for #RollingWithNexon. We expect the powerful collaboration with popular artists Parikrama and Dhruv Visvanath will excite fans from both music and motor worlds and drive greater attention for our partners overall!

According to Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Head  Marketing  Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors - We are very excited to associate the Tata Nexon with Twitter and Rolling Stone India. With creative engagement at its core, #RollingWithNexon campaign comes with an overlaying LEVEL NEX theme, aiming to connect the visitors of the Auto Expo 2018 with cutting edge music artists of India. Just like these artists, the Nexon has created a mark by extending the boundaries and providing best-in-class technology and features for the ones who would like to express themselves with a unique style of their own. We are confident that this never seen before association will strike the right cord with the visitors and take the Expo to LEVEL NEX.

Nirmika Singh, Executive Editor, Rolling Stone India said, At Rolling Stone India, we are committed to building a lively community of artists and fans. We are thrilled to join hands once again with our long-time partner Twitter India and now Tata Motors for the brand new, adventurous season of #RollingWithNexon. With this unique music property, we hope to create digital content that fresh and engaging, as well as build an on-ground platform for musicians to connect with their audience."

Twitters In-Stream Video Sponsorship enables publishers to monetize video content while making it easy for advertisers to reach engaged audiences and sponsor exclusive content. This sponsorship package will allow both Tata Motors and Rolling Stone India to reach out to their extended audience in India and the world with exclusive content on Twitter.

Popularly known as the 'guitar spanker', Dhruv Visvanath (@mrdhruvv) is a Delhi-based percussive guitarist who plays a mix of acoustic and indie music. He was recently named as one of the 30 Great Guitarists Under 30 in the world by Acoustic Guitar Magazine USA. With their roots in Delhi, Parikrama (@parikrama) began their musical journey in the 1990s, and have emerged as one of Indias most iconic rock bands over the decades.

Follow Tata Motors (@TataMotors) and Rolling Stone India (@RollingStoneIN) on Twitter and Twitter Lite to learn more about project #RollingWithNexon.Based on Gautam Buddhas teaching that Greed is the root cause of all evil! and directed by Sampath Nandi who has popular south movies like Bengal Tiger and Raccha to his credit, Rowdy Rajkumar 2 boasts of a remarkable storyline, heart pumping action, suspense and the perfect dose of drama. Starring Gopichand in a dual role, Hansika Motwani and Catherine Teresa in pivotal roles, Rowdy Rajkumar 2 will premiere on Zee Cinema, Home of Blockbusters, on Thursday, 15th February at 8PM.

The movie also stars Sachin Khedekar, Nikitin Dheer who is best known for his role as Thangabali in Chennai Express and Mukesh Rishi who is often seen playing the role of a villain in various Bollywood movies. Originally a Telugu movie titled Goutham Nanda, Rowdgy Rajkumar 2 is a gripping tale of two look-alikes  Gautham and Nanda who have had contrasting upbringings and is shot in the exquisite locales of Bangkok, Dubai and Hyderabad.

Goutham (Gopichand) is the only son of Vishnu Prasad (Sachin Khedekar), one of the richest billionaires in the world. A hedonistic rich brat, he stumbles upon the question 'Who am I?' and goes on a path of self-discovery. A twist of events and he bumps into his lookalike, Nanda (also played by Gopichand) who lives in poverty, is unemployed, and wants to die because he has failed to strike rich. As each of them want something that the other person has, they strike a deal and switch their positions for thirty days to experience each others lives. Goutham experiences various emotions of life and tries to become a better human being. In contrast, Nanda enjoys the luxuries and gets use to power and money. But the twist in the story comes when somebody tries to kill Nanda assuming he is Goutham.

Why and who wants to kill Goutham forms the rest of the story.

To know what destiny has in store for Goutham and Nanda, tune-in to Rowdy Rajkumar 2 on Thursday, 15th February at 8PM only on Zee Cinema.

Read More:

https://www.adgully.com/mega-screening-of-discovery-jeet-s-swami-ramdev-ek-sangharsh-76274.html

https://www.adgully.com/manasa-a-new-show-on-colors-bangla-opens-with-a-bang-76272.html

https://www.adgully.com/zee-tv-reinforces-its-brand-philosophy-with-a-book-launch-76265.htmlBringing its audiences content that drives the great Indian middle class to take charge of their destiny and curate an extraordinary future, Zee TVs brand philosophy, Aaj Likhenge Kal has been creating waves across the country. Through its latest offerings such as Detective Didi, Aap Ke Aa Jaane Se and Kaleerein where the protagonists break self-imposed and societal shackles to forge towards a better tomorrow, Aaj Likhenge Kal has distinctly emerged as a strong content mantra for Zee TV. Further reinforcing this brand philosophy and taking it beyond television frontiers into the lives of its viewers in the form of literature, Zee TV associates with popular author Rashmi Bansal for her new book Touch the Sky. Bringing inspiring accounts of women across India who are writing their own destiny, the book was released in Mumbai by Zee TV actors Manasi Salvi,Karan Jotwani, Sahil Uppal and Indias leading celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Divekar

Touch the Sky is a tribute to the courage and confidence of the Indian woman, from Korba to Kashmir. Be it the 60 year old lady who runs a shelter home supported by a home made pizza business or the blind girl who found a meaning to life through friends made across the globe over the internet. Be it the woman diagnosed HIV positive in the course of her pregnancy who mustered the courage to deliver and live happily with her son or the 5 girls from the remote village of Hutup who chose to kick over cook, in each personal triumph lies a larger story. Of boldness, of transformation. Of women rising to take their place in the sun. Featuring the accounts of strong women like the Yuwa Girls, Usha Choudhary, Meena Lahre, Chhaya Solanki, Rabiya Khan, Shital Bhatkar, Sushma Bhadu, Aditi Gupta, Hafiza Khan, Swati Karwa, Jyoti Dhawale, Sanam Karunakar, Padma Srinivasan, Apeksha Shah and Bhavana Issar, the book is an extension of Zee TVs brand philosophy Aaj Likhenge Kal.

Deepak Rajadhyaksha, Deputy Business Head, Zee TV said, Ever since we freshly articulated our brand philosophy in October, Aaj Likhenge Kal has resonated strongly with our audiences. With the core grain of our content reflecting this ideology, we are now happy to amplify the message through any medium  be it TV, films, digital or books. The premise of Rashmi Bansals latest book Touch the Sky is in beautiful sync with Aaj Likhenge Kal. The idea is to encourage readers through stories of seemingly ordinary individuals who, with their progressive thinking and courage, changed the course of their destiny. Through Touch the Sky we want to highlight that every person, man or woman, has the power to envision and reach out to their own destination on the foundation of self-belief, creating an impact not only on their own future but also on the world.

Rashmi Bansal, author of Touch the Sky said, Thank you to the Zee TV team for conceiving the idea and putting their faith in me, to bring it to life. The channels philosophy, Aaj Likhenge Kal, is a complete reflection of the message that my book Touch the Sky attempts to convey to readers. Touch the Sky is a compilation of stories featuring strong and independent women as they discover the true essence and definition of shakti. It is an ode to women who overcame the odds. What kind of odds? All the stuff women face... silently, without protest. Samaaj ka daayra. Beti hone ke bandhan. Family ki rok tok. It is about their incredible journey and how they emerge as heroes by merely standing up for what they believe in.

Rashmi Bansals Touch the Sky emulating the Aaj Likhenge Kal brand promise will be available for purchase starting 29th January 2018 in book stores close to you!!

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Obtain the data you need to make the most informed decisions by accessing our extensive portfolio of information, analytics, and expertise. Sign in to the product or service center of your choice.Tomorrow Turkish photographer Cagdas Erdogan will stand trial in Istanbul on charges that he is a member and supporter of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which is classified as a terrorist organization by the Turkish government. Erdogan, who is of Kurdish descent, was arrested last September after being accused of illegally photographing the headquarters of Turkeys intelligence service. To his supporters, his arrest speaks of Turkey's crackdown on press freedom, notes the British Journal of Photography.Would you like to receive breaking news notifications from The Post and Courier?

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Please enable notifications in your browser and reload the page.President Donald Trump's fiscal year 2019 budget request nixes the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility and allocates more than $30 billion to the U.S. Department of Energy.

This proposal will empower DOE to achieve our missions efficiently and effectively while being respectful to the American taxpayer," U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry said.

The budget request includes $220 million to close MOX safely and orderly, according to the DOE. Approximately $59 million has been requested to pursue dilute and dispose methods, also known as downblending.

Fiscal Year 2019 budget request President Donald Trump's fiscal year 2019 budget request in full.

On Monday, Acting Under Secretary for Nuclear Security Steven Erhart said he supports dilute and dispose because it is the objectively cheaper and faster option.

Trump's budget request  titled "An American Budget"  states MOX closure would save the federal government $10 billion to $12 billion.

MOX is a currently under construction Savannah River Site facility that, once complete, would turn weapons-grade plutonium into commercial reactor fuel. MOX is 70 percent complete, according to U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, R-S.C., and U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.

The MOX venture has faced ballooning costs  billions-over-budget is the commonly used phrase  and exponential delays: A 2016 DOE project management report estimates MOX completion in 2048, for example.

Trump has previously tried shutting down MOX by revoking funding. A similar move was made by President Barack Obama when he was in office. Wilson, on Monday, said the requested defunding is unfortunate but nothing new.

Graham has contended dilute and dispose, a process in which plutonium is mixed with inert material and buried, is ineffective, pointless and requires otherwise unnecessary negotiations. Graham, last week, said he'd put up "one hell of a fight" for MOX.

On Monday afternoon, S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster said MOX is a facility that "needs to be completed." He said downblending is a "questionable procedure."

"I want to open MOX," the governor said. "I think it is the answer to a lot of questions."

Of the total $30 billion, approximately $15 billion would go to modernizing the nation's nuclear arsenal and infrastructure. It would be specifically awarded to the National Nuclear Security Administration.

The NNSA is a semiautonomous DOE agency in charge of the nation's nuclear weapons complex. The NNSA has a presence at SRS.

The NNSA would receive a majority of the DOE's appropriations if Trump's budget goes through untouched, which is highly unlikely. While the NNSA would get $15 billion, the next largest allocation, given to "Science," would be funded at $5.3 billion, according to the DOE.

Roughly $11 billion of the NNSA's allotment would be used for "weapons activities," according to the DOE. That's almost $2 billion more than fiscal year 2017.

That money would be used to modernize the NNSA and nation's nuclear abilities, which aligns with objectives set out by the Trump-requested Nuclear Posture Review. The Nuclear Posture Review was published this month and analyzes the nation's nuclear-related readiness.

2018 Nuclear Posture Review A review and analysis of America's nuclear abilities and health, requested by President Donald Trump in 2017.

"The budget makes significant investments in design and construction of facilities, with emphasis on infrastructure related to strategic materials ... that are critical to the nuclear weapons stockpile," the budget document reads.

Half of NNSA infrastructure is more than 40 years old. A quarter of NNSA infrastructure dates back to the Manhattan Project.

"Our nuclear weapons program has been pushed back, pushed back and pushed back for years ... They havent been able to keep up with the modernization work that needed to occur," Perry said.

Trump's nominee to lead the NNSA, Lisa Gordon-Hagerty, has said bringing the NNSA up to speed is a priority of hers  that includes jump-starting plutonium pit production.

We do need to have a robust program to ensure that we can make pits, more reserve pits, Gordon-Hagerty said to the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee Feb. 8. Gordon-Hagerty also said she does not support MOX and prefers downblending.

Plutonium pits are grapefruit-sized nuclear weapon triggers. No weapons-usable pits have been produced since 2011. Historically, pits were produced at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico and, before that, the Rocky Flats Plant outside of Denver.

The NNSA is under direct orders to produce 80 pits per year by 2030. The NNSA has proposed redeveloping the New Mexico lab or bringing pit production to SRS  and that involves either repurposing MOX or building a brand new facility, the NNSA has said.

Erhart said the NNSA is considering reuse options for MOX but did not specifically mention pit production.

The budget process is far from over. Moving forward, the U.S. House and Senate budget committees will issue budget resolutions. Appropriation committees then mark up the resolutions. The resolutions, including changes and tweaks, are then discussed and voted on by both chambers. Agreed upon appropriation bills are then signed into law by the president.

Aiken Standard staff writer Dede Biles contributed to this story.GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  Twelve students of mechanical engineering at An-Najah National University in Nablus, the West Bank, have built the first Palestinian racing car from recycled materials to compete at the Silverstone racetrack in the United Kingdom, as part of the annual Formula Student competition.

The only Palestinian team taking part in the competition will be competing against some 130 rivals from countries around the world in July.

The Formula Student Competition kicked off in 1998 in the United Kingdom and is organized by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers in collaboration with the worlds largest automakers, where mechanical engineering graduates from all over the world compete at the highest level in design, manufacturing and mechanics.

The team is lead by Amira Tamam, who was a volunteer at the 2017 Formula Student competition and promised to return with her own team in 2018. Other members of the team are Karam Ghanem, Najeh Tabila, Hussam Habayeb, Mohammad Amer, Zayd Omri, Mahmoud Ghanem, Mutaz Katit, Ahmed Abu Jazar, Ahmad Behlok, Mohammad Abu Jazar and Mohammed Nassasira, who have worked hard to meet all the international standards to develop a racing car.

Abu Jazar, 22, told Al-Monitor, We learned that the Formula Student Competition is an annual event that is open to everyone. We decided to run our plans to build a car for it and race in the United Kingdom by the university dean and head of the Engineering Department [at An-Najah National University], both of whom welcomed the idea. We immediately started working and looking for available spare parts on the Palestinian market. The construction of their car will be part of their graduation project.

He said, First we began with designing models to choose the most suitable one and then we began building the car from [recycled] materials and testing it for the market. We also marketed it among investors in order to find funding for our project."

The car was built in the West Bank and has a maximum speed of 140 kilometers (87 miles) per hour. The team did not buy a single new part because of the high cost, and all parts of the car are recycled. The racing car we made is 100% Palestinian. We did not import even one item from abroad; all the materials were from the local market. The car has special features with a powerful engine and low fuel consumption. In case of an emergency, the driver can easily exit the car with the same system that ejects the driver from a Formula One car, Abu Jazar added.

He said that for the chassis, they got used pipes from a local garage, rewelding them to the appropriate sizes. He said the team ran into several challenges in the process, including self-financing the project. In addition, the engineers had to take apart broken-down cars for spare parts and buy some of the second-hand parts.

Mohammad Amer, another 22-year-old engineer on the team, told Al-Monitor, I am so proud that we were able to build this car from scratch with our own effort and money, without any help. We have so much talent and ability that can be tapped to finish projects and manufacture cars but we need financial and moral support to materialize our ideas.

He said, The manufacturing cost was about $5,000, which we paid for ourselves. This is a small amount to make a high-standard car that has qualified to participate in an international competition. But we did it. We are eager to represent Palestine abroad."

Amer said, As per the competitions specifications, the car must have a 700 cc engine and not weigh more than 300 kilograms [661 pounds]. We browsed the internet and watched many tutorials on YouTube to try to stick to the standards and specifications  and we did. We are now hoping that we will achieve our dream to win the first prize.

The cars are assessed across a number of categories, such as cost, presentation, design and efficiency, before they race against one another.

In mid-July, six team members will head to the United Kingdom, one of whom will take part in the race. They will attend the award ceremony in Bristol on the final day, July 15.Palestinians are still wondering what effect last month's dismissal of the Egyptian intelligence chief will have on them.

Lebanon's Al-Akhbar newspaper reported Jan. 17 that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had dismissed the director of the General Intelligence Directorate, Khaled Fawzy, with no explanation and tasked Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Abbas Kamel to run the directorate until a new director is appointed.

The Egyptian media did not run the news of Fawzys dismissal, reporting only Sisis decision to appoint Kamel as acting director. But Egyptian parliamentarian Mustafa Bakri, who is close to Sisi, tweeted Jan. 19 that Fawzy was dismissed because his health is deteriorating from an unnamed disease.

As Palestinians watched this delicate Egyptian development, they feared a setback for the Fatah-Hamas reconciliation, as Fawzy had been handling the matter and managed to bring both parties to Cairo to sign the reconciliation agreement Oct. 12.

Osama Amer, a Palestinian journalist residing in Cairo, told Al-Monitor, Fawzys dismissal did not affect the Egyptian-Palestinian communication channels. Senior Egyptian intelligence officers are still communicating with Fatah and Hamas, although nothing new has come up in the reconciliation. They are discussing general issues that should be completed.  There is Palestinian consensus that Egypt must broker the reconciliation due to its geographical closeness to the Palestinian territories and its detailed knowledge of the reconciliation issue. Although Fawzy has made leaps in the reconciliation, the situation has been stagnant lately because Egyptians are preoccupied with their presidential elections scheduled for the end of March.

Some Palestinians are linking Fawzy's dismissal to his failure to find quick solutions to the worsening Gaza crises. Palestinian hopes for a free trade zone between Egypt and the Gaza Strip, the opening of the Rafah crossing and the resolution of the pending issues between Fatah and Hamas have taken a severe blow.

Some of the most contentious issues hindering reconciliation remain Hamas' staff, which says it is neglected by Fatah, while Fatah accuses Hamas of not allowing the consensus government to work in Gaza. The two parties do not agree on forming a national unity government, preparing for general elections and reforming the PLO. All these issues remain unresolved.

Hamas leader Osama Hamdan, who resides in Beirut, told Al-Monitor, Hamas is making calls with the Egyptian intelligence to find out whether it will broker the reconciliation in the coming phase, following the changes in the intelligence system and the dismissal of Fawzy. Although Hamas considers the dismissal an internal Egyptian affair that does not concern it, the party wants to make sure that Egypt will continue brokering the reconciliation. Hamas wants Egypt to reveal which party is hindering [reconciliation] and to pressure it to seek solutions to the stalemates.

Head of Hamas political bureau Ismail Haniyeh said at a press conference in Gaza City on Jan. 23 that he received a call from Maj. Gen. Sameh Nabil, who is currently overseeing the Palestinian dossier in Egyptian intelligence, that day to affirm the ongoing Egyptian brokerage for the reconciliation despite the internal changes. According to Haniyeh, Nabil said that achieving the reconciliation is a deep Egyptian concern and relayed the message from the Egyptian leadership along with a request to arrange a new meeting between Fatah and Hamas in Cairo when the circumstances allow.

Mousa Abu Marzouk, deputy chairman of Hamas political bureau, paid a surprise visit to Egypt on Jan. 24 and met with Egyptian intelligence officials to discuss the next steps in the faltering reconciliation.

Abdullah Abdullah, a member of Fatahs Revolutionary Council and director of the political committee of the Palestinian Legislative Council, told Al-Monitor, The dismissal of the director of Egyptian intelligence is an internal affair that has nothing to do with the reconciliation. I do not think it will affect its path much, but Hamas does not seem serious about achieving reconciliation. It should have acted more rationally, and should not have relied on promises and temptations from foreign entities I will not name. Palestinian [parties] themselves are determined to see the reconciliation succeed, so we do not have to wait on any foreign influence to make it happen. While we do welcome any help Egypt is willing to provide, we are the ones concerned first and foremost.

Since reconciliation talks first began under Egyptian brokerage in 2007, five Egyptian intelligence officials have been replaced  Omar Sleiman, Murad Muwafi, Mohammad Chahata, Farid al-Tahami and Fawzy. As part of the recent efforts, Fawzy visited Gaza on Oct. 3 for the first time since the Palestinian division in 2007. He brought with him a message from Sisi, urging Palestinians to complete the reconciliation. But Egypt recalled its security delegation from Gaza in December without giving any reasons. No meetings have been held between Fatah and Hamas in the past few weeks to avoid widening the rift, and calls between them were minimal.

A well-informed Egyptian member of parliament told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity, Sisi wants the new director of intelligence to get the Palestinian reconciliation back on track and expedite its implementation. He also wants to remove obstacles impeding the consensus, without leaning toward one party or the other. Sisi intends to hold wide-scale deliberations with the Hamas and Fatah delegations in Cairo and make high-level calls to end the disputes or discordance.

On Jan. 21, the London-based Arabi21 quoted unnamed Egyptian activists as claiming that the main reason Fawzy was dismissed is that he rejected an alleged deal proposed by US President Donald Trump: to build an alternative country for Palestinians in the Sinai Peninsula and repatriate them there. According to the report, Sisi agreed with Trumps efforts to pressure Palestinians into accepting the deal, but Fawzy rejected it.

Mukhaimer Abu Saada, a professor of political science at Al-Azhar University in Gaza, told Al-Monitor, Fawzy worked hard to make the reconciliation a success, including a visit to Gaza. He created an environment of trust for Hamas, specifically for its leader Yahya Sinwar. Fawzy did not fail. Palestinian parties that did not want the reconciliation, and that I will not specify, thwarted his efforts. I found out that President Mahmoud Abbas complained about the Egyptians to the United States because they strongly pushed for the reconciliation.

During the meeting of the PLOs Executive Committee in Ramallah on Feb. 3, Abbas asserted that Egypt is no longer as involved in the reconciliation, but did not explain. In an interview on Palestine TV on Feb. 6, Jibril Rajoub, secretary of Fatahs Central Committee, attacked Egypts role in the reconciliation and accused Fawzy of stepping on Abbas toes by contacting Fatah and Hamas directly. He also said Egypt was undermining Fatah.

Although Egypt did not give reasons for dismissing Fawzy, Palestinians are afraid that this development might foil the already stagnant reconciliation. Both Fatah and Hamas are waiting eagerly for the appointment of a new Egyptian intelligence director to save the faltering reconciliation.CAIRO  A number of Egyptian political parties, movements and figures announced in January their boycott of the presidential election scheduled for mid-March to protest what they said were regime practices preventing any fair competition and resembling the practices of primitive dictatorships. Such practices include the unconstitutional extension of the state of emergency and the use of media outlets to discredit potential competitors.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and head of Al-Ghad Party Moussa Mustafa Moussa are the only candidates set to compete in the election, as all those who had announced their intention to run withdrew from the race.

The boycotting forces include pro-Islamist parties such as the Strong Egypt Party, the eight secular and left-wing parties of the Civil Democratic Movement, liberal and left-wing political movements such as the April 6 Youth Movement and the Revolutionary Socialists Organization.

The National Alliance in Support of Electoral Legitimacy (NASEL), which includes the Muslim Brotherhood and other Islamist parties, has yet to issue a statement regarding the presidential election but is unlikely to do so. Since the overthrow of former President Mohammed Morsi in July 2013, this alliance has refused adamantly to recognize the existing regime.

Although these political forces agreed to oppose the ruling regime, they have yet to forge an alliance to enhance their positions. And the absence of such an alliance was clearly established at the press conference held by the Civil Democratic Movement to declare its boycott of the election. Neither the Strong Egypt Party nor the April 6 Youth Movement or the Revolutionary Socialists Organization were invited to attend the conference, let alone groups and parties currently or formerly affiliated with NASEL.

Besides their ideological differences, these political forces have different positions when it comes to the ruling regime. While the members of NASEL refuse to recognize and deal with the ruling regime, the other parties recognize it but reject its practices.

Akram Ismail, who is in charge of the political dossier in the Bread and Freedom Party, one of the components of the Civil Democratic Movement, told Al-Monitor, It is out of principle that the movement refuses to coordinate, let alone forge an alliance with groups and parties currently or formerly affiliated with NASEL. The movement refuses to cooperate with any right-wing party even if it was not part of said alliance.

Asked about their position on the Strong Egypt Party, Ismail said, The issue is a matter of dispute within the Civil Democratic Movement. There are conservative political members who are suspicious of the Strong Egypt Party because of the background of some of its Islamist members and because of its head  Abdel Moneim Aboul Fotouh  who was a leader in the Muslim Brotherhood until the January [25] Revolution. However, there are other members in the movement who believe that the positions of the Strong Egypt Party are authentic, democratic and undisputed and do not mind forging an alliance with this party.

The Civil Democratic Movement is also divided on how to deal with the April 6 Youth Movement and the Revolutionary Socialists Organization. Some of its members believe that the two movements are sympathetic to the Muslim Brotherhood and fall within the orbit of Islamists, while others believe such claims are widely baseless and invalid, Ismail added.

Muhannad Hamed Shadi, a member of Al-Wasat Partys political bureau, which up until August 2014 was a member of NASEL, told Al-Monitor, The Egyptian opposition forces missed a golden opportunity to coordinate and forge an alliance against the regime during one of their worst stages. All of the political forces are oppressed, suppressed or have their members arrested amid a deadlock in the political and public fields. But some forces still set specific conditions, standards and limits when it comes to coordinating with other national partners, and we are against such conditions.

He added, Part of the crisis is due to the fact that there are acts of racism, discrimination and social division fueled by the regime, and this is affecting the political forces and leading to their division and practice of racism against each other. Another part of the crisis is caused by some influential political forces that stand in the way of rapprochement between parties and movements due to personal issues, and this is a sad reality.

Mohamed al-Kassas, the deputy head of the Strong Egypt Party, told Al-Monitor, The current dispute between the opposition forces is ideological. But at such pivotal moments, these forces should overcome their differences and work hand in hand. Part of the dispute between the Egyptian opposition is caused by old differences between some political actors, and this is hindering the process of forging an alliance.

According to Ismail, the Civil Democratic Movement has a rule concerning alliances or coordination with political entities. According to this rule, such entities should not be affiliated with or close to the [Hosni] Mubarak regime, the networks of this regime, the Muslim Brotherhood or NASEL. But this rule has yet to be strictly implemented as per Ismail.

The Islamist political forces and their close associates do not seem to have such rules. The Muslim Brotherhood has repeatedly, most recently on the anniversary of the January 25 Revolution, called for unity within the revolutionary class in a bid to end the coup, in reference to the military overthrow of Morsi in July 2013.

Shadi said that the party is in favor of such an alliance with all the parties without any conditions.

Meanwhile, Kassas said that the Strong Egypt Party does not mind cooperating or forging an alliance with any official and legal political party that does not support the current regime, that is not an illegal ideological organization or a cover thereto and that works from Egypt. Therefore, the party does not mind cooperating with Islamist, leftist and liberal parties so long as they comply with these conditions.

This shows that opposition to the ruling regime cannot serve alone as the basis for an alliance between the Egyptian opposition political forces of different ideologies at a time when most of these forces are failing to overcome their long history of hostility. In other words, a unified front including all opposition factions is unlikely to see the light, at least not in the short term.CAIRO  Egypt's National Press Authority (NPA) recently issued a travel restriction that some in the news business consider a blessing, while others see it as a curse.

The move obliges reporters, editors-in-chief and board chairmen working for state-run newspapers to get NPA permission before heading to seven "restless" countries: Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Turkey, Sudan, Yemen and Libya. Before the mandate was issued, journalists needed only the approval of their editor-in-chief and board chairman to travel there for work. Journalists are still free to travel to these countries without formal approval on their own time.

On Jan. 6, NPA chief Karam Gabar said the restriction aims to protect journalists.

"Many countries [have taken] such procedures to secure journalists who cover news in turbulent areas," Gabr said at a press conference, adding that the decision targets those working for state-owned outlets, since they are considered spokespeople of the country. The rule doesn't apply to other journalists.

Speaking to Al-Monitor, Jihan Sha'arawy, a senior member of Egypt's Press Syndicate who works for the state-owned Al-Ahram newspaper, lauded the NPA decision, saying it doesn't impose restrictions on journalists or hamper their work. "The decision helps the NPA take the required precautionary measures to protect journalists who cover news in areas that witness severe clashes," she argued.

"Journalism is a tough profession and journalists love adventure. Therefore, this step helps protect journalists from being lured by outlaw groups that exist in the countries plagued by political turmoil.  The NPA should be informed beforehand to follow the work of those journalists," Sha'arawy continued.

Claims that the NPA's decision is an encroachment on the Press Syndicate's role are groundless, she stressed, explaining, "There is integration between the roles of the two entities. In critical issues, the NPA should make the final decision since it is more powerful and has full authority."

The syndicate primarily regulates relations between journalists and their employers, she noted.

The NPA was formed following a decree by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in April establishing three bodies to regulate media affairs: the NPA, the National Media Authority and the Supreme Council for Media Regulation.

Since these groups were formed, journalists have expressed mounting concerns about freedom of the press. This latest decision has convinced many they were right to worry.

Writer and political analyst Ammar Ali Hassan told Al-Monitor the decision is politically motivated and has nothing to with journalists' safety. Such decisions, he said, are absurd and restrict the freedom of journalists to travel and cover the news.

"Journalists are the crucial source of information," he said. "Instead of encouraging Egyptian journalists to travel, cover news at hot spots and get a scoop, the NPA imposed further restrictions. The NPA should help the state-owned newspapers restore their pioneering role instead of running them into the ground with such decisions."

Hassan accused the NPA of focusing on certain countries, such as Qatar and Turkey, for political reasons. "They fear that journalists will travel to these countries and work for their newspapers and media outlets," he said.

Officials said some reporters who have traveled to Turkey and Qatar, in particular, are believed to be working for foreign outlets.After 26 years of governing oil-rich Iraqi Kurdistan, the region's two main political parties are on the verge of economic and political bankruptcy.

While officials of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) live in luxurious houses with 24/7 electricity, the majority of residents have not been receiving their salaries, which had previously been reduced, and the Kurdish economy is in a free fall, creating unprecedented levels of poverty and resentment. The situation has become so dangerously unstable that a senior peshmerga commander on Feb. 11 threatened to seize oil tankers unless the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) pays soldiers' their salaries.

No one can deny that the PUK and the KDP are scared, Jamil Kheder, an Erbil trader who has voted KDP all his life, told Al-Monitor. In the past, people were scared that the PUK and the KDP would cut off their salaries if they didn't vote for them, but now [the parties] can't even pay those salaries and are worried that we'll punish them in the [next] election.

For years, the two ruling parties used government coffers and oil revenues to hand out cash and employment opportunities to attract votes, in the process creating a bewildering and bloated civil service consuming the lion's share of oil revenues. That source has run dry since the independence referendum held in September in defiance of the Baghdad government's opposition to the measure. The plebiscite ended disastrously for the KRG, with Baghdad taking control of oil-laden Kirkuk.

Shandyar, who sells cutlery in the main bazaar in Sulaimaniyah, said of elections in the region, I have voted three times  once for the Islamist [party], another time for the PUK and the last time was for Gorran [Movement for Change].  But I will never vote again, because change is not possible in this society.

Many Kurds had hoped that with the emergence in 2009 of Gorran  which adopted an anti-corruption platform  the PUK and the KDP would lose their monopoly on power. Instead, the ensuing political wrangling led to a more polarized society.

There is too much hopelessness, in particular among supporters of the opposition groups, said Barham Mohammad, a civil society activist from Said Sadiq, in Sulaimaniyah province. In 2009, a large number of people flocked to Gorran in the hope of changing the system here, but that hope is largely gone.

Mohammad, a Gorran supporter, also told Al-Monitor that he believes his partys participation in the KRG during 2014-15 had been a failure because it could not change anything. I will still vote for Gorran, but I know many people are disillusioned, and they aren't going to vote, he said. No date has been set for provincial elections, but officials say they might not be held until November.

Massoud Barzani resigned from the presidency last year, after the referendum, but remains a KDP party leader. Meanwhile, provincial elections have been postponed for an undetermined period due to a Sunni request, on the grounds that they are not yet ready.

Despite disillusionment among the electorate, new political parties are hoping they can entice voters to the ballot box and challenge the PUK-KDP duopoly. One such party is the Alliance for Democracy and Justice, headed by former KRG Prime Minister Barham Salih, who might be the most popular politician in the Kurdistan Region. Another contender is the New Generation Party, headed by Shaswar Abdulwahid, a real estate and media businessman who openly opposed the independence referendum and has a fairly clean record.

While past elections had been tainted by rigging and interference from the main parties, which receive support from regional allies such as Iran, which backs the PUK, the situation appears different this time. The introduction of biometric technology could make it difficult to tamper with election results.

Rebin Abubakr, the head of the electoral commission in Sulaimaniyah, said that more than 3.4 million people are eligible to vote, but as many as 300,000 names could be duplicates, people who have died, Syrian refugees or Arabs from other parts of Iraq who have no right to vote in Kurdistan.

This new [biometric] system will prevent, to a large extent, any  cheating in the elections, Rezgar Hama Mehyedin, the deputy head of Iraq's electoral commission, said Feb. 3 on NRT TV.

Iran, Turkey, the United States and Baghdad appear to now prefer new players on the political scene after coming to view the PUK and KDP as irresponsible, in particular because of their pushing ahead with the September referendum against all warnings. The time is long gone when heads of states and foreign and defense ministers would stop over in Erbil to meet with KRG officials as equal partners. When German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen visited Erbil on Feb. 11 to discuss post-Islamic State Iraq, she did not meet with Kurdish officials.

Despite opposition to the PUK and KDP, both still have core constituencies that will support them. I know the PUK is corrupt, but I will still vote for them, said Dana, a trader in Sulaimaniyah. That is what I have done all my life. We are a PUK family.

Those who are not tainted by corruption will do better in this election, Jamil Khedir, a trader in Erbil, said while driving this reporter around the city. You can't get anything done if you dont have connections in this place. He emphasized the lack of trust between officials and the people.

Why would you need a [16-foot] concrete wall around your house, Khedir asked, pointing to the massive concrete walls and dozens of peshmerga guards around Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzanis sprawling compound. These officials are scared of their people!BAGHDAD  Sunnis  regular citizens as well as parliamentarians and politicians  have been demanding the withdrawal of Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) from their areas, a request that has intensified in light of parliamentary elections scheduled for May 12. On Jan. 15, some Sunni personalities publicly called on Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi to order the PMU out of Sunni governorates to ensure an uncompromised voting process.

The PMU factions continue to maintain a significant presence in some areas of Diyala, Ninevah, Salahuddin and Anbar after helping liberate them from the Islamic State (IS), which seized some one-third of Iraqi territory in 2014. These factions believe they have the right to remain in Sunni areas as the country's liberators, noting that they too are Iraqis, not some foreign, occupying force. They also claim that their presence is needed to prevent the re-emergence of terror organizations and reprisals by IS supporters or members, because the Sunni tribal forces are too small and need their support.

The PMU factions have dismissed demands by local Sunni authorities and Sunni political parties in Baghdad to evacuate hundreds of locations in the liberated areas. That said, the Sunni parties have no authority over the PMU, and the factions have not been ordered to withdraw by Abadi's government. Baghdad so far has ignored the Sunnis' complaints, generally viewing the PMU as part of the nation's security forces, deployable anywhere on Iraqi territory.

Some Sunni residents have expressed concerns about freely casting their votes, as they feel intimidated by the presence of PMU fighters. Dhafer al-Ani, head of the Sunni Mutahidoun bloc, claimed in a media statement Jan. 28, The militias could affect the voting process and influence Sunni voters to cast their ballots in favor of certain candidates.

Some members of the PMU factions have resigned to form political wings and have registered them to participate in elections. It is unclear whether they can actually influence Sunni voting in their areas. The PMU lists formed the Fath alliance, which includes the Badr Organization, Asaib Ahl al-Haq, Kataib Hezbollah and others. There is no indication the PMU plans to deploy for the elections, and they are stationed in barracks.

PMU spokesman Karim al-Nouri told Al-Monitor, The security stability, which was established thanks to the PMU factions' sacrifices, has paved the way for holding the elections. Whats more, the PMU [will] not interfere in the political affairs and elections.

Writer and media figure Ihsan al-Shammari seconded Nouri. I do not believe the PMU would affect the electoral process or pressure voters to cast their ballot in favor of anyone. As per the directives of the prime minister, who is also the commander in chief of the armed forces, the military institution is to remain on the sidelines of the political sphere. In addition, there will not be any room for political pressuring given the electronic voting in the coming elections.

Shammari added, Those claiming that the security forces will affect the elections are being hyperbolic, maybe because they realize that they have lost a lot of their popularity.

The PMU presence in Sunni areas has been an issue for some time as many Sunni political parties view the PMU factions as sectarian militias, even if, as Shiite security and political parties emphasize, they helped liberate Iraqi territory from IS.

Many of the Sunni parties do not accept the assertions by PMU representatives that they have a crucial security role to play. Instead, they point to electoral legislation that parliament passed in January 2017, confirming the dates and other details surrounding elections, including that the government is obliged to be the only one armed with weapons during election campaigns. Thus, the Sunnis have been pushing the government to order the PMU factions to withdraw from the IS-liberated areas as a prerequisite for holding successful elections.

Ahmad al-Masari, a leader in the Sunni Forces Union, told Al-Monitor, The continued presence of the armed PMU factions in the liberated Sunni areas means the militarization of the elections. In order to guarantee the holding of fair elections, armed factions should remain on the sidelines.

Maj. Gen. Najm Jubouri, commander of Ninevah operations for the Iraqi military, told Al-Monitor, The claims that the Sunni forces fear competing [politically] with the PMU in the elections are baseless. The PMU tasks are related to security and not to politics. The PMU are not withdrawing from Ninevah regardless of the holding of elections.

According to political analyst and writer Wathiq al-Jabri, Many residents of Sunni areas had migrated to Shiite areas, where they formed bonds with PMU families and found respect. Some of them have become related via marriages, and others volunteered in the PMU. This national harmony is what scares Sunni forces in the upcoming elections. Jabri told Al-Monitor that this situation is leading the Sunnis to push against the PMU.

As the elections approach, there is no sign of an impending PMU withdrawal. Perhaps all concerned stakeholders will soon let go of the issue and move forward with campaigning since a federal court dismissed Sunni requests to postpone the elections to give them more time to prepare.This basic law aims to anchor the values of Israel as a democratic and multicultural state, treating its citizens with complete civil and national equality, reads the bill that was created recently by Arab Knesset member Yousef Jabareen of the Joint List. Jabareen initiated his bill as a response to the Nationality law, which is scheduled to have its first Knesset reading soon. The Nationality law would secure Israels position as the state of the Jewish people, and its detractors argue that it does so at the expense of the countrys democratic values. The bill passed a preliminary reading in May 2017.

According to Jabareen, his proposal will expose the real faces of the Knesset members who support the Nationality law and the series of anti-democratic laws that were passed in recent years by the right-wing coalition. His bill will prove that democracy for them is no more than lip service. Simultaneously, he claims that his proposal will also challenge Israels left, or at least what remains of it.

Jabareen, a resident of Umm al-Fahm, is a professor of law. In his doctoral thesis, which he wrote while attending Georgetown University in Washington, he compared the African-American minority in the United States to the Palestinians in Israel. He is viewed as an expert on the subject of minority rights.

In a conversation with Al-Monitor Feb. 11, Jabareen said that the nationality bill discriminates against Arabs and other minorities in Israel. He added that he first conceived of his counterbill when he sat as a member on the Knessets Constitution Committee when it discussed the nationality bill.

It really bothered me that no other alternatives [to the law] were discussed. The discussion was restricted and revolved around the framework created by the right, which focused on the Jewish State. It lacked mention of a minority group. Our status, our rights. Twenty percent of the Israeli population were excluded from the bill," he noted, in reference to Israeli Arabs. "Even academics who attended the committee were drawn into the narrow discussion on that one proposal, without looking for alternatives, compromise, logic regarding what to do with the minorities in Israel who are not Jewish. Will they remain without equal status? Discriminated against?

Jabareen said that he was spurred to check whether there are still signs of live democracy in Israels parliamentary discourse and support for essential rights of the Arab minority and of other minorities in the country. He feels that his proposed bill would constitute the real test.

In a period in which numerous Knesset members from the coalition try to delegitimize the Arab public, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman, who called to boycott Arab residents of the Wadi Ara, Jabareens bill aspires to legally anchor equal rights for the minority he represents.

Members of the Joint List will not forget Netanyahus fear campaign against the Arab public just before the elections of 2015. They also remember the prime ministers attempts to drive a wedge between Arab citizens and their representatives in the 20th Knesset. Jabareen recalled Netanyahus speech at the opening of the Knessets winter session in October 2015, when he painted the Arab Knesset members as Islamic State supporters and viewed the Arab public as constantly on probation, required to demonstrate their loyalty to the country. I appeal to the Israeli Arabs, citizens of this country, and I say: Will you follow a leadership which incites, which reaches absurd heights  the members of the communist Balad party, behind whom stands a trail of [Islamic State] flags? A leadership which seeks to fragment the country? Or will you follow the path of coexistence, peace, loyalty to the country of which you are a part? asked Netanyahu.

Liberman has conducted an ongoing campaign against Umm al-Fahm, Jabareens city. In addition to Libermans call for boycotting the Arab residents of the area, he also tends to denigrate the Arab-Israeli population, specifically the Arab members of Knesset. After US President Donald Trump made his Jerusalem declaration on Dec. 6 and the Wadi Ara Arabs conducted demonstrations in response, Liberman called the Joint List members of Knesset war criminals, and called for canceling the rights of Arab citizens. I saw them with flags of the Palestinian Authority, with Hezbollah flags, with pictures of [Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan] Nasrallah.  Must I be their sucker who pays social security? We are a bunch of suckers; 14 billion shekels [around $4 billion] we give them. These citizens, who attended the funeral in Umm al-Fahm of the three murderers. As far as I'm concerned, they are not legitimate citizens.

All this passed before Jabareens eyes when he labored on his bill, which was supported by the entire Joint List and submitted in its name. The State of Israel will ensure equal protection before the law to all its citizens and ensure the national, cultural, linguistic and religious rights of its two national groups, Jews and Arabs, read the proposal.

Jabareen has no illusions that the Knesset will pass his law. It is clear to him that the right will oppose it and, in his opinion, most of the Knesset members from the left center (such as the Zionist Camp and Yesh Atid) will not vote for it. He told Al-Monitor, They will certainly make themselves absent from the plenum in order not to raise their hands against a proposal that attempts to enforce all the rights of the Arabs, even though it is formulated in accordance with international law and minority rights in general.

Al-Monitor talked with Jabareen over the phone when he was in Romania, where he was sent by the International Relations team of the Joint List. This team, which he heads, was founded by the Higher Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel. The teams task is to present to international bodies the vision of the Arab minority in Israel. Jabareen was the one to formulate the legal section of the vision document. Over the recent weekend, he appeared in conventions in Bucharest and Sofia, Bulgaria; these were organized by the Palestinian Friends Association and Palestinian delegations in these countries. Joint List members have often been accused of seemingly acting as emissaries for the Palestinian Authority rather than acting on behalf of Israels Arab citizens. To this, Jabareen responded, We cannot be disconnected from the Palestinian nation. We are part of it, while at the same time we are also citizens of the State of Israel as we seek to democratically define our rights as a minority group.The Pentagon released a budget blueprint today that calls for retaining some 6,000 US troops in Iraq and Syria, even as the Islamic State (IS) has been all but defeated in both countries.

The troop number is included in a $15.3 billion request to support the US-led anti-IS coalition in fiscal year 2019, which starts Oct. 1. It includes $1.4 billion to train and equip US allies, including $850 million for the Iraqi army and Kurdish peshmerga, $300 million for the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and $250 million for border security. The request is up more than $2 billion from the current fiscal years request.

Funding for US troops in Iraq and Syria has stayed flat for the past three fiscal years, even as the actual troop presence has fluctuated. The United States has an estimated 5,200 troops in Iraq, where they are engaged in training Iraqi forces, and 2,000 troops in Syria, mostly assisting operations to clear IS from the Middle Euphrates River Valley.

Despite the request to keep troop numbers stable, Pentagon spokesman Adrian Rankine-Galloway told Al-Monitor that the US troop levels in Iraq are on the downturn as artillery and other units depart.

Last week, the US military all but confirmed it is moving troops out of Iraq ahead of the country's legislative elections in May.

In November, more than 400 US Marines who helped liberate the former IS capital of Raqqa left Syria. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, however, has said the United States would keep an enduring troop presence in the country to push back against the 125,000 Iranian troops believed to be in the country and protect areas held by the US-allied, Kurdish-led SDF in the countrys northeast. The United States has trained more than 11,000 members of the SDF since 2015.

On the Iraq side of the border, [IS] has lost everything, pushing them into Syria, US Defense Secretary James Mattis told reporters en route to Rome on Sunday. As you do that, youre compacting whats left of [IS]. So the fighting actually becomes a little tougher at that point.

The requested increase for the counter-IS fight comes as funding to train and equip Iraqi and Syrian forces is set to drop by more than 17%. Much of that cut is coming from Iraq as the US military shifts its focus toward securing borders in Jordan, Lebanon and other countries at risk from IS fighters leaving the battlefield.

With 127,000 Iraqi Security Forces trained since the United States returned to Iraq in 2014, the United States is seeking to cut funding for the training program from $1.3 billion to $850 million. That includes $45 million for the Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq, hosted at the US Embassy in Baghdad.

The budget also seeks $10.9 billion to replenish US troop supplies that have been used up in combat. That includes hellfire missiles, bomb upgrades and small-diameter bombs that the Pentagon says were used extensively to liberate Mosul last year.GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  Western diplomatic sources unveiled Feb. 4 to Al-Hayat newspaper new details on the deal of the century, in which Palestinians will have their own city of Jerusalem by building new villages and neighborhoods. This is combined with the establishment of a Palestinian state that includes over half of the West Bank area, all of the Gaza Strip and some neighborhoods in Jerusalem.

It has become apparent that the US administrations plan, which complies with Israeli aspirations, is on the point of being presented, following repeated leaks related to its details. Yet it is being prepared without any Palestinian input or approval.

The Gaza Strip-based Al-Resalah newspaper reported Jan. 19 that Israeli Channel 14 shed light on a leaked document by Secretary-General of the PLO Executive Committee Saeb Erekat, which he submitted to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas 10 days before it was disclosed to the public. The 92-page document discusses the US strategy for Israeli-Palestinian peace, which, according to the document, will be announced within two to three months.

Erekat stressed in the document that the Palestinian leadership should not give US President Donald Trumps plan a chance or even examine it. Erekat affirmed that there is no reason to wait for such a plan that would preserve the status quo as is, legitimize Israeli settlements and establish the current Palestinian self-rule.

According to Arabi 21, the leaked document discussed the United States plan that allows for the annexation of 10% of the West Bank area to Israel; allocation of parts of Ashdod and Haifa for Palestinian use, while Israel remains in charge of the security there; the establishment of a safe passage between the Gaza Strip and the West Bank under Israeli sovereignty; and granting Israel the upper hand in the demilitarized Palestinian state, which will have its own police force.

Palestinians perceived this deal to be a dismantling of the Palestinian cause. Mazen Abu Zeid, who is in charge of the PLO Refugee Affairs Department, told Al-Monitor, The deal of the century is a liquidation of the Palestinian cause. Since he took office, Trumps decisions on the Palestinian cause  recognizing Jerusalem to be the capital [of Israel] and cutting aid, which was the largest package to UNRWA [UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees]  are designed to liquidate the Palestinian cause.

Abu Zeid believes that the US administrations actions and decisions confirm that the United States has a pro-Israeli bias. The United States is a biased mediator in the peace process. It has broken all international laws and UN General Assembly resolutions and taken unilateral decisions, such as the deal of the century, which it seeks to levy on us. [The United States] seeks to reward the Israeli occupation with new lands, after occupying and seizing large parts of the Palestinian territories over the past years. What will be left of the West Bank following such a plan?

Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem told Al-Monitor that the United States and Israels goals concur in the deal. This is namely liquidating the Palestinian cause, refraining from giving the Palestinian people their rights back and taking important issues, particularly the Jerusalem and refugees issues, off the table.

He said, Refraining from recognizing the Palestinian peoples legitimate rights to their land and sacred sites, denying them the right to return and expropriating their sovereignty over the land in exchange for a regional peace and normalization with the Arab world is the right way to liquidate the Palestinian cause. All of the Palestinian peoples components are required to strongly counter and never allow the passing of such a plan. The Palestinian Authority needs to adopt a clear position and trigger a major uprising involving all social components in a militant program that would be agreed upon at the national level.

Akram Atallah, a political analyst and writer for Al-Ayyam newspaper, told Al-Monitor that details of the US plan are being leaked many times over and that we are learning that the Palestinian people oppose such a plan, and how the Arab and international world is reacting to it.

He said, The goal is obviously to liquidate the Palestinian cause, since there is talk on a closure and legitimization of key dossiers. This includes declaring Jerusalem the capital of Israel alone, which Trump has done, halting the UNRWA activity, and the Israeli government declaring a number of settlements annexed to Israel. The objective is to leave such dossiers behind. All of this is a liquidation of the Palestinian cause.

Atallah believes that the plan could be passed forcibly and is dangerous mainly when it comes to the distorted image of the Palestinian state, which will consist of geographically separated and scattered lands between the settlements. Moreover, the plan was made and will be implemented in light of a seven-year-long deteriorating situation in the Arab world, and even a more degenerating situation at the Palestinian level due to the decadelong Fatah-Hamas split, he said.

The leaks evidently consist of trial balloons to learn how much the Palestinians are against the plan. Nevertheless, the US and Israeli sides seem to be carrying on with said plan to liquidate the Palestinian cause and produce a distorted and scattered state.ANKARA, Turkey  In a 2013 deal with Turkey, the European Union had offered Turkish citizens the prospect of visa-free travel on the condition that Ankara met 72 criteria on democratic rights, especially the freedoms of thought and expression, the judiciary, civic society, economic transparency and combating corruption.

Visa-free travel for Turkish citizens was also a key issue in the refugee deal Turkey and the EU signed in March 2016. Ankara was supposed to meet all of the criteria by the end of that June, but failed to do so. The EU said seven criteria remained outstanding, criticizing Ankara for its broad definition of terrorism, which infringed on the freedoms of thought and expression. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was infuriated. In a speech on May 6, 2016, he said Turkey remained under the threat of terrorism and slammed European authorities for tolerating exiled supporters of the armed Kurdistan Workers Party, considered a terrorist group by Ankara and much of the international community. We're going our way, you go yours, he declared.

In July that year, a botched coup attempt resulted in the declaration of a state of emergency, which is still ongoing. The aftermath of the putsch saw a ferocious crackdown on oppositional quarters marked by mass purges at public institutions and universities and the arrest of dozens of journalists, academics, politicians and parliament members. The crackdown plunged Turkey-EU relations to a new low.

Yet Erdogan seems to realize that the political and economic price of breaking up with the EU is growing bigger. He has taken up the issue of EU membership anew, including during recent trips to France and Italy, amid growing talk of normalizing ties with the EU. On Feb. 7, Turkey submitted documents to the European Commission, saying it had fulfilled the outstanding criteria for the visa waiver. The ball is now in the EUs court, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said.

Presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin argued that the visa waiver should take effect this year. We expect it to materialize as soon as possible  in light of the fulfillment of the 72 criteria, he said. If this materializes, the perception of the EU in Turkey will no doubt change.

In general terms, the seven outstanding criteria required Ankara to introduce biometric passports for its citizens, adopt measures to fight corruption, conclude an operational cooperation accord with Europol, align its anti-terror legislation with EU standards, adopt rules on the protection of personal data in line with EU norms, cooperate efficiently with all EU countries on issues related to fighting crime and fully implement the terms of the refugee deal.

Turkey has since begun issuing biometric passports and adopted a law on the protection of personal data. Yet the EU has deemed those steps insufficient and not fully compliant with its standards.

On the issue of combating corruption, then-Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu had unveiled a transparency package in 2015, but the planned measures were soon shelved after vocal objections from Erdogan. Davutoglu was eventually forced to step down, and his successor Binali Yildirim never revisited the issue.

For the EU, the amendment of anti-terror legislation remains a top priority. Ankara has not only failed to make any move to meet the EUs demands, but it has continued to arrest and prosecute opponents on terror-related charges. Most recently, the judiciary targeted members of the pro-Kurdish Peoples Democratic Party ahead of the partys Feb. 11 convention in Ankara, with Co-chair Serpil Kemalbay topping the detention warrant list.

Meanwhile, the European Parliament, a key body in winning the visa waiver, passed a harsh resolution Feb. 8 condemning Ankaras emergency rule, political pressure on the judiciary, arbitrary arrests of dissidents, suppression of the media and attempts to silence opponents. The resolution acknowledged that terrorism remained a threat for Turkey but stressed, The broadly defined Turkish anti-terrorism legislation should not be used to punish citizens and media for exercising their right of freedom of expression. The Turkish Foreign Ministry responded by calling the resolution null and void.

Just days earlier, EU leaders had announced they would hold a summit with Erdogan to review the state of EU-Turkish relations on March 26. Turkey wanted the summit to take place in Brussels, but the EU chose the city of Varna in Bulgaria, which is currently holding the rotating presidency of the bloc. The relegation of the venue suggests the EU is trying to give the meeting a low profile. The invitation to Erdogan says the agenda will focus on issues related to the supremacy of law and basic freedoms. Given Ankaras toughening practices under the state of emergency, the Varna summit seems unlikely to yield any substantial results toward normalizing and improving ties.

Moreover, in EU heavyweight Germany, the coalition protocol between the Christian Union parties and the Social Democrats suggests that the EU door will be closing for Turkey. The protocol states that progress on Turkish demands such as the revision of the Turkey-EU customs union accord and the abolition of visa requirements will depend on Ankaras fulfillment of its obligations. On the issue of membership talks, the protocol continues the current freeze. It describes Turkey as an important partner for Germany and an EU neighbor, dropping the reference to strategic cooperation used in the previous coalition protocol. In EU jargon, neighborhood policies refer to countries such as Ukraine, Israel and North African and Middle Eastern nations.

On Feb. 6, the European Commission announced a new strategy to expand into the Western Balkans, setting 2025 as the target year for the first accessions. Serbia and Montenegro appear first in line for the next enlargement, a perspective in which Turkey is nonexistent.

As the European Parliaments resolution underscores, any visa waiver for Turkey requires first and foremost the lifting of the state of emergency and an end to suppression of the opposition, the media and government critics. Ankara may claim it has completed the required conditions, but a country whose lower courts have come to defy Constitutional Court rulings on rights violations could hardly impress the EU with its record.

The extension of custody periods via legislative decrees, the restriction of the rights of defense lawyers and the detention of hundreds of people for terrorist propaganda over social media posts can hardly satisfy EU norms. With more than 150 journalists languishing behind bars, Ankaras argument that they landed in jail not for their journalistic activities but because of links to terrorist groups rings hollow.

Any visa waiver will require the approval of the European Parliament and the European Council. The European Parliaments resolution already shows that almost no political bloc will be willing to vote in favor of such a gesture to Turkey. And with Germany and France floating an alternative status for Turkey less than membership, the countrys accession appears off the table until at least 2025.

To avoid the full alienation of Turkey, the EU might consider a limited visa waiver covering certain groups such as businesspeople, scientists, artists and civil society activists. Yet, inevitably, it would still require the lifting of emergency rule, the release of jailed journalists, steps to ensure judicial independence and the narrowing of the scope of terror crimes to exclude the expression of opinion.

In sum, Turkey seems unlikely to win a visa waiver and the EU is closing the membership door. A new crisis or fresh tensions in Turkey-EU ties should not come as a surprise.As the United States and Europe continue to ponder ways to manage relations with an increasingly assertive, unpredictable and nationalist Turkey, a fascinating study released by a liberal DC think tank might offer them some valuable clues  while also adding to their confusion.

In its report, Is Turkey Experiencing a New Nationalism?, The Center for American Progress concludes that yes, it is. Compared with the more secular nationalism seen under Mustafa Kemal Ataturks presidency  this new nationalism is assertively Muslim; fiercely independent; distrusting of outsiders; and skeptical of other nations and global elites, which it perceives to hold Turkey back. All of this is being stoked and exploited by the countrys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Some 80% agree with the statement, Islam plays a central role in my own life and is essential to my understanding of Turkish identity. But this idea should not be seized on as proof that most Turks are Islamists. The report suggests that 70% think Turkey should be a secular state that respects the rights of people from all religious backgrounds to practice their faiths with no official state religion.

More puzzlingly, while 54% believe that Ataturks secular vision is under assault, 51% credit the unabashedly Islamist Erdogan with fulfilling Ataturks ideal of a strong and independent nation.

Nicholas Danforth, a historian and Turkey expert at the Bipartisan Policy Center, another DC-based think tank, told Al-Monitor the study suggests the most potent force in Turkish politics is not Islamism per se but an increasingly religious form of nationalism that sees both the country and its faith as subject to Western assault.

The cocktail of Islam and nationalism is easily observed in the slogans and social media accounts of the Turkish forces taking part in Turkeys three-week-old offensive against Syrian Kurdish forces in Afrin. Evocations of the countrys Ottoman past punctuated with cries of Allahu akbar and assertions of Turkish superiority are de rigueur.

Anti-Americanism has soared to unprecedented heights. According to the report, whose findings are based on a sample of 2,453 people interviewed by the respected polling firm Metropoll, 83% of respondents have an unfavorable view of the United States. Some 73% have similarly negative feelings about the European Union, compared with 63% for Turkeys historical foe, Russia.

The notion that enemies bent on its destruction encircle Turkey is nothing new. Under decades of military tutelage, successive governments peddled the siege mentality to justify the suppression of democracy and to control the population. Erdogan has simply perfected this art and is converting it into more votes.

Thus, when American generals warn Turkey against making further moves against the Syrian Kurds in places like Manbij, support for such action among the Turkish public grows even stronger.

Danforth argued, With anti-Americanism so pervasive and deeply felt, no amount of threats or concessions from Washington will be able to manage it easily. At best, he concluded, US policymakers can try to mitigate the risk of direct confrontation in the short term while preparing for the likelihood that relations will remain strained for the foreseeable future.

Turkeys faltering economy, though, remains Erdogans Achilles' heel.

While Turks remain sharply divided along partisan and ideological lines, a plurality of respondents  45%  say that Turkey is headed for the worse, with only 34% arguing the opposite. Potentially most troubling for Erdogans ruling Justice and Development Party, only half of those who voted for it in the 2015 elections believe living standards for their families have improved. Moreover, a mere 13% of those who voted for the far-right Nationalist Action Party whose support is important for Erdogan believe life has gotten better.

A separate survey published by Metropoll based on its December 2017 findings showed some 47.1% view the economy as Turkeys gravest problem. In January 2017, only 14.6% of respondents thought so. Conversely, in January, well over half saw terrorism, which is conflated with Kurdish separatism in the public psyche, as the biggest threat. By December, only 14.3% assessed terror in the same light. Such data may help shed light on the timing of the Afrin operation and the likelihood of snap polls.Amazon is reportedly inching closer to have its own delivery service as an extension to its massive retail presence. The company currently works with FedEx and UPS to manage its transportations at various levels and this move will put Amazon in direct competition with its partners. As per the report, the third-party delivery service will be called Shipping with Amazon and it will be launched in the coming weeks. The service will kick off in Los Angeles, and will be later expanded to other parts of the US. At its initial stage, the service will only be offered to the third-party sellers on Amazons own platform and will cover other businesses not on Amazons platform at a later stage.

With that said, Amazons delivery service wont be dealing with the customers directly, at least initially, it will utilize a business-to-business (B2B) model. Under this service, Amazon will pick up goods from third-party sellers warehouse and transport them to Amazons fulfillment centers. From there, the goods will follow the usual transportation and delivery methods via third-party delivery services. As of now, sellers are required to ship the goods themselves to the nearest Amazon fulfillment center. Amazon will also try to have an upper hand in the market by keeping its prices lower than the competition and offering faster deliveries once the service expands beyond sellers on Amazons platform. The online retail giant is investing heavily to expand its delivery network which will give the company a greater control over the customer experience. Delivery by drones is also on the cards with the Amazons great focus on Prime Air, companys division that is responsible for making it a reality.

Just last week, Amazon announced to deliver products from Whole Foods, which the company acquired in July, within two hours. This service is available for free to the Prime members via Prime Now and is available in four markets at the moment  Cincinnati, Dallas, Austin, and Virginia Beach. This service will be rolled out to other markets in the coming months. Last year, Amazon went a step ahead and introduced in-home delivery that gave users an option to get their products delivered not at their doorstep, but inside their actual home. Users are required to purchase the Amazon Key In-Home Kit for $249.99 to get started with in-home delivery.AT&T announced in late 2016 that it was acquiring Time Warner for $85 billion. The deal has been going through regulators, and in November, the Department of Justice filed a lawsuit to block the merger. AT&Ts CEO has been on the defensive as of late, defending the acquisition. Stephenson stated, when talking with CNBC this week, that the acquisition of Time Warner would allow the company to better compete with the likes of Hulu, Google, Netflix, Amazon and others. Explaining that they also create and distribute content. Which is the reason why the Department of Justice is looking to block this merger.

The lawsuit that the Justice Department filed in November, is due to start on March 19th. Obviously, Stephenson was unable to talk to much about the lawsuit, since it is ongoing. But the Justice Department believes that if the merger were to go through, AT&T would be able to charge its cable, satellite and streaming video rivals more for including HBO, CNN, TBS and Warner Bros. Studio content on its platforms. While AT&T argues that it would not do that, it is a real concern for the Justice Department. And its likely that AT&T may have to spin off some of those content-generating properties ahead of the completion of the acquisition.

Despite this, AT&Ts CEO has said that the company is ready to go to court and fight this lawsuit with the Department of Justice, and the Judge has agreed to a speedy trial. This purchase has been ongoing for quite some time already, and AT&T is hopeful that it can get the acquisition finalized in the next few months. Its a bit interesting that the Department of Justice is taking AT&T to court over buying Time Warner when it approved Comcast buying NBC back in 2011. And now there is also talk of CBS looking to acquire Viacom. So it looks like there will be more consolidation in the content-generation industry right now. The Justice Departments issues here are real, and could be an issue for the consumer, as it would cost more to get these channels and content that would be under AT&Ts ownership. We should find out more next month, once the trial begins.Facebook used personal data of German citizens in an illegal manner, a Berlin regional court ruled on Monday, concluding that the Mountain View, California-based Internet giant didnt obtain the consent to do so from its users in an appropriate manner, i.e. by asking for it while clearly informing them about its practices. A copy of the ruling has been shared by the Federation of German Consumer Organisations earlier today, revealing that the competent court found Facebooks privacy practices to be in violation of some consumer protections in the European country. The court dismissed a number of other allegations against Facebook as part of the same trial and the defendant is now planning to appeal the sentence deeming its privacy practices illegal.

In a statement provided to Reuters, Facebook argued its terms of use and general privacy policies have been revamped in the last three years and arent in any violations of the law alleged by the litigation from 2015. The company also reiterated its stance of being fully committed to streamlining its privacy guidelines so that theyre as easy to understand as possible. Its unlikely such an argument will by itself hold up in an appeals court since the firms 2015 practices were found to have been illegal. Supporters of the lawsuit claimed Facebooks privacy policy wasnt just convoluted but also hard to discover, adding that not enough information about it was provided to users while they were registering a Facebook account.

The timing of the verdict is inopportune for the worlds largest social media network thats currently in the process of additionally revising its policies in order to comply with the upcoming privacy law set to go into effect in the European Union in June. The company recently fought off a privacy-focused class-action lawsuit filed against it with the top EU court, though the judicial body still advised the plaintiff to pursue individual litigation against the firm in their home country of Austria. Facebook is still being scrutinized by the EUs privacy watchdogs over its data sharing with its messaging subsidiary WhatsApp and even Instagram that has been the subject of some ongoing controversies for over a year now.Google released the Pixel Buds in the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia earlier this month, having expanded the availability of its first earphones four months after debuting them in the United States and Canada. As expected, the wearable is somewhat more expensive in other markets than it is in the U.S. where Google is still selling it for $159. British consumers will be expected to pay 159 ($220) for the Pixel Buds, whereas those looking to purchase them in Germany will be met with a 179 ($219) price tag. Finally, buying the Pixel Buds in Australia will set you back AUD $249 ($194).

The device itself has been met with a mixed response from both critics and consumers alike. While many praised its real-time translation capabilities powered by the Google Translate service, native support for the Google Assistant, and day-long battery life, the earbuds were criticized for their rubberized plastic design and general audio quality that some felt didnt justify the relatively high price tag that puts the wearable in the high-end segment of the market. The Pixel Buds are primarily advertised as an accessory for the Pixel and Pixel 2 lineups of Google-made Android flagships but they can also be used with most other smartphones and tablets via Bluetooth, though third-party devices wont be able to take advantage of their translation functionality. Its presently unclear whether the Alphabet-owned company is looking to follow up on its first pair of earphones later this year once it announces the Pixel 3 series.

As a whole, the Pixel Buds represent yet another step in Googles long-term plan to become a major force in the consumer electronics segment, with the companys hardware division recently absorbing a lot of talent and patents from HTC as part of a $1.1 billion deal which was officially completed last month. The Google Home speakers, Google Clips automated camera, and the Chrome OS-powered Pixelbook are also meant to fuel the firms growing hardware ambitions. As part of the same endeavor, Google recently decided to reabsorb Nest only a year and a half after spinning it off into a standalone entity, claiming the move will allow it to do a better job at integrating its artificial intelligence technologies into the firms smart home gadgets.Google has released a new search queries-based report, titled Automotive Trends Report 2018, which highlights three very different trends in the direction the automotive add-ons industry seems to be headed for the US, Germany, and Japan. Interestingly, Google stepped outside of its Google search data for this report and also included searches from its YouTube subsidiary. Beyond that, the company says it got in touch with a total of 1,000 consumers from the three regions to provide context for that data. According to the report, digital radio and similar updates are currently the big things in Germany while Japanese drivers appear bent on turning their cars into living rooms. Americans, on the other hand, seem to mostly want their cars enhanced to cater to their pets.

Specifically, Google says that vehicle-related search trends originating in the US are trending toward pets, revealing that Americans view their furry companions as family. Residents of the country are as much as 36 times more likely to search for pet-related vehicle products as those in Germany and ten times more likely than the average person in Japan. In the meantime, Germans are primarily searching for ways to improve their vehicle via Digital Audio Broadcasting equipment. Google says that the trend is actually something that started way back in 2010 with a national initiative to switch all broadcasts to digital formats. Despite the length of time between then and now, as of August, searches for that equipment still managed to rise by 41-percent year-over-year. Last but not least, Japanese searches from seem to indicate that customers are redesigning the interiors of their vehicles with goals centered around comfort and aesthetic appeal. More directly, and rather than looking at technologies specifically, consumers from the region are looking at seat covers, fridges, humidifiers, and even curtains. The average Japanese consumer is almost twice as interested in the topic as those in the US and nearly five times as likely to search for those customizations as the average German consumer.

As to what the regions have in common, all three are showing an increased interest in incorporating cameras into their vehicles in ways that go well beyond those made for assisting drivers with safely backing up. Drivers are specifically looking into camera systems that record both behind and in front of a vehicle  with searches related to that growing 185-percent year-over-year. Meanwhile, searches for in-car recording systems that show a 360-degree view have gone up by more than 70-percent and hidden vehicle-based camera searches went up by 29-percent for that same period. For more advanced features, searches for cameras that show or include GPS functionality have grown by 10-percent and cameras that are part of a parking system have seen 51-percent growth in searches from last year. Setting those aside, the biggest jump in queries for onboard cameras was for those that are embedded in mirrors on a vehicle. That particular category saw a search increase of over 598-percent year-over-year.Lenovo-owned Motorola is reportedly ready to unveil no fewer than three new devices at this years MWC 2018 and each of those is said to be part of the Moto G6 family. Thats following certification of a device bearing the model number XT1922-1 via Taiwans National Communications Commission. Interestingly, that number designation had previously been associated with a leaked model of the Moto E5 and Moto E5 Plus. However, each of the three devices expected to be unveiled at the Barcelona event is reported to be part of the Moto G6 line, including the Moto G6, Moto G6 Plus, and the Moto G6 Play. So it may be that those previous reports were incorrect about which model this identifier was associated with.

In the meantime, there have also been some slight variations in the specifications associated with the Moto G6 Play through prior leaks, as well as some renders. As is often the case with devices that bear the same base model designation, its likely that each of the new devices will be similar in size, shape, and specifications. That could even mean that all three models will share some or all of the same specifications, with the only differences being in size or software. For example, the Moto G6 Play was previously reported to be arriving with the Snapdragon 430 SoC and either 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage or 3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. Its possible that the more capable device is actually the Moto G6 Plus, which could simply be a larger variation of the Moto G6.

Meanwhile, the Moto G6 itself could be sold with either option available but in a smaller form factor. The Moto G6 Play, on the other hand, is likely a Google Play edition of either the larger or smaller handset running a stock version of Android 8.0 Oreo. As to other specifications previously associated with the Moto G6 Play, it has been rumored to arrive in a choice of Charcoal, Blue, and Gold frames with a 5.7-inch HD display. The back of the device is expected to feature a single 12-megapixel shooter. All of that hardware is rumored to be driven by a 4,000mAh battery.A new wireless charged identified by the model number EP-N5100 has been spotted online on Monday, with its user manual being prematurely uploaded to Samsungs customer support library. The first-party charger is expected to be officially announced alongside the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9 Plus later this month, though it should also be compatible with the companys previous devices equipped with wireless charging coils such as the Galaxy Note 8 and Galaxy S8. The gadget has also been sighted in a real-life image shared by German tech outlet WinFuture, as seen in the gallery below. The overall design of the charger appears to be somewhat similar to that of the first-generation DeX Station, though it lacks a USB Type-C plug on the front for obvious reasons. The device also appears to be relatively similar to Samsungs previously released Fast Charge Wireless Charging Stand which is currently retailing for $39.99 in the U.S.

The manual refers to the creation as the Fast Wireless Charger and confirms it supports the Qi charging standard, which is yet another indication that it will be compatible with previous Android smartphones from Samsung. The South Korean firm designed the device to allow users to orient their handsets both horizontally and vertically while theyre being charged, with the charger also featuring a LED light near its bottom meant to serve as an indicator of the gadgets status, as well as the status of the smartphone its meant to refuel. As was the case with the previous iteration of the device, a red light will indicate your phone is charging, a blinking red light will denote an error, and a green indicator will let you know once your handset has been entirely refueled. The charger itself connects to a power outlet via a USB Type-C port.

Samsung is also preparing to release a handful of official protective cases for the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9 Plus available in dozens of variants in total, the majority of which leaked online over the weekend. The firms next pair of Android flagships is scheduled to be officially announced on February 25 in the run-up to MWC 2018 and should hit the market by mid-March following a relatively brief pre-order period.One of Xiaomis newest subsidiaries is solely dedicated to designing and manufacturing gaming smartphones and may release its first commercial product as early as this year, with the Black Shark brand recently launching its official Weibo page. The firm still hasnt started teasing any products but may do so shortly, with one of its devices already being referenced by a government agency that hinted at a highly advanced cooling system and a flagship system-on-chip. If Black Shark is truly developing a gaming smartphone, placing a large focus on a robust cooling system would be in line with such a product strategy; while contemporary mobile chips already pack enough power to handle some extremely graphically intensive games, they usually struggle to offer sustained performance due to overheating that causes their hardware to throttle itself, hence not offering a consistent user experience.

No specifics on the cooling system set to be part of Black Sharks first handset have yet been uncovered, save for a vague reference to an aviation-class setup. Xiaomi has yet to officially express an ambition to compete in the gaming smartphone segment of the market thats still a niche product category with no real support from major original equipment manufacturers. Before the release of the Razer Phone in late 2017, the last globally advertised mobile device designed to cater to gamers has been the Sony Ericsson Xperia Play from 2011. Razer managed to reignite some interest in such hardware with its first handset offering and its unique 120Hz display, though its presently unclear whether its somewhat successful mobile gaming experiment was what prompted Xiaomi to try its luck in the same segment.

Besides the Chinese tech giant, ASUS is also said to be developing a gaming-centric Android smartphone meant to be released later this year, though details about the Taiwanese companys project remain scarce. The upcoming iteration of the Mobile World Congress may see the introduction of one such handset, with the Barcelona, Spain-based trade show having a reputation of being the place where OEMs launch highly experimental devices. Xiaomi itself has an extremely successful year behind it, having nearly doubled its global smartphone shipments, and is expected to hold an initial public offering in the second half of 2018, with insiders recently claiming the firm is targeting a valuation of up to $100 billion.Qualcomm and Broadcoms merger talks have been delayed yet again after the latters CEO Hock Tan said hes astonished the chipmaker wasnt willing to meet with its unsolicited suitor before Tuesday. Following scheduling disagreements that arent commonly seen at such a high level of dealmaking, the two parties will finally discuss Broadcoms bid on Wednesday, Reuters reports, citing sources with knowledge of the plan. The meeting will mark the first occasion on which Qualcomm and Broadcoms representatives will get together to hold talks on the matter, though the approached party still insists that its willingness to listen to Broadcom explain its plan isnt indicative of an ambition to go through with any kind of a tie-up with the Singapore-based semiconductor manufacturer.

Broadcom upped its initial bid for Qualcomm by 24-percent last week, offering approximately $121 billion for the company, hence proposing by far the largest merger in the history of the technology industry. Qualcomms board unanimously rejected the offer, citing major regulatory concerns and claiming that even the revised bid massively undervalues the firm and its assets. Broadcom remains adamant that it could wrap up the consolidation within 12 months of agreeing on it and will attempt to convince Qualcomms board that such a scenario is plausible later this week. Qualcomm is presently in the process of trying to wrap up a significantly smaller takeover of Dutch NXP Semiconductors valued at $38 billion, having delayed its deadline for the completion of the deal on numerous occasions in the last 16 months and still being without regulatory approval from Chinas antitrust watchdog. Some industry analysts believe the firms inability to complete the deal in a timelier manner is what prompted Broadcom to attempt a hostile takeover in the first place, with the company possibly sensing corporate weakness in Qualcomms ranks.

Mr. Tan already oversaw more than $380 billion worth of consolidations in the tech industry but is expected to face the toughest audience in his career on Wednesday. Even if Qualcomm is convinced of the mergers plausibility, the issue of the price still remains, and Mr. Tans track record with M&As isnt indicative of another significantly increased bid being a realistic development. Broadcom is still trying to overthrow Qualcomms board at the chipmakers annual shareholder meeting scheduled to take place on March 6. Both parties will be talking with advisory firms Glass Lewis and ISS in the run-up to their meeting in order to try to convince them to back their directorial nominees next month.The Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 is the newest high-end SoC to emerge from the house of Qualcomm and one that is expected to make its way to a number of premium flagship smartphones throughout 2018. With the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus likely to be two of the very first smartphones to include the new SoC. As a result there are going to be high expectations on how the 845 performs and not just when compared to the competition but also when compared to its predecessor, the Snapdragon 835.

Recently we were invited to Qualcomms HQ in San Diego to take part in an early look at the 845 and its performance based on the use of synthetic benchmarks. As is always the case with benchmarks, the scores do not automatically equate to user performance and in many ways do not measure most of the fundamental aspects of a chipset that matter. Although, they are a metric that can be used to provide some comparative data. The scores below were not provided to us by Qualcomm but were gathered by us when running the benchmarks using a Qualcomm Reference Design (QRD) phone which housed the Snapdragon 845. For comparison measures, the same tests were then run (within 24 hours of the QRD testing) on a Google Pixel 2 XL (Android 8.1.0) and a US version of the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 (Android 7.1.1)  both of which are powered by the current Snapdragon 835 SoC. We were not the only outlet at the event and others were noted getting wildly different scores at times when using different QRD devices  an aspect to keep in mind as it further highlights how these scores should not be taken as definitive measurements.

Qualcomm Reference Design (QRD) phone

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Before we get to the numbers here is some background on the QRD phone used for benchmarking. This is a device that looks to showcase the use of the Snapdragon 845 within a form factor that is as close to a smartphone as you can get as it is a smartphone but one designed for development and testing and not for consumer use. As a result of its purpose the QRD phone is a little thicker and boxier than what consumers will actually end up seeing the 845 included in. As for the QRD phone specs, the display measures in at 5.5-inches and makes use of a 2560 x 1440 resolution. Besides the Snapdragon 845 the QRD phone is powered by 6GB RAM and runs on Android 8.0 (Oreo). A dual rear camera setup consisting of a 12-megapixel and 13-megapixel camera is included, as is a 12-megapixel front-facing camera. Now to the scores.

AnTuTu

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An AnTuTu score is always a popular metric to quote and so we will start off with this one. According to Qualcomm, the Snapdragon 845 was expected to score a minimum of 265500 with a possible top(ish) score of around 267000. During our testing the 845 scored within this range although in each instance towards the lower end with the first test seeing the 845 score 265613. Interestingly, during the second run the score increased slightly to 265632. By the time the third test was done, however, the SD845 started to show a decrease in AnTuTu performance with the score coming in at 265020. This is a fairly demanding benchmark test and after running the test three times in quick succession a drop in performance is probably to be expected. When comparing the SD845 to the SD835 devices, the SD845 showed significant improvement and consistently  with the Pixel 2 scoring 201032 and the Note 8 scoring 200284.

N.B. Others saw quite fluctuating scores on AnTuTu with their QRD devices and sometimes by as much as 10,000. We did not however with our tests all scoring in excess of 265000.

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Geekbench

Another popular benchmark measure is Geekbench and although the scores noted during our testing were relatively in line with what Qualcomm suggested, these were not quite as accurate as the AnTuTu scores. For example, during the three tests both the single-core (S/C) and multi-core (M/C) scores came in slightly under the expected minimums although still within an acceptable margin of error. More importantly, although underscoring, the scores over the three tests were highly consistent. For example, on all three M/C tests the 845 roughly scored 2-percent less than expected. Likewise, on all three tests the SD845 greatly outscored the Pixel 2 and the Note 8. Below you can see the full comparison of scores but to sum up  the lowest S/C score for the 845 was 2411 (vs 1900 for the Pixel 2 and 1863 for the Note 8) and the lowest M/C score was 8089 (vs 6420 for the Pixel 2 and 6202 for the Note 8). Scores which do highlight significant improvements compared to the 835.

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GFXBench 4.0

The GFXBench 4.0 scores for the SD845 proved to be the most accurate when comparing the actual scores to those provided by Qualcomm. While GFXBench 4.0 offers a wide range of measurements the scores below are specifically related to the Manhattan 3.0, Manhattan 3.1, Car Chase, and T-Rex aspects of the GFXBench tests. All of these tests were conducted using the 1080p and offscreen filters  in line with Qualcomms suggested values. Results represent FPS and in all instances the SD845 scored either exactly as suggested or slightly higher, and significantly better than the scores for the Pixel 2 and Note 8.

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3DMark

As part of the benchmarking process 3DMark test scores were also collected as these tests provide some insight into the graphics performance of the device. The test used for the SD845 included Slingshot Unlimited 3.0 and 3.1. Qualcomm did not provide minimum total values for these tests and instead provided FPS values for the two graphics tests (32 & 19 for 3.1 and 43 & 28 for 3.0). However, we opted to use the overall scores for comparison. So below you will see one score which represents the full overall score and the second score representing the dedicated graphics score  for both Sling Shot Unlimited 3.1 and Sling Shot Unlimited 3.0.

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Browser Benchmarks

The following benchmark scores are relevant to Chrome browser benchmarks. Qualcomm provide expected scores and so therefore we ran the same tests quickly to see how in line with those expectations the scores were. However, less prominence was given to these tests due to these being browser benchmarks and some of which are no longer even officially supported. As a result the scores have been included below for additional information purposes. Each benchmark was only tested once on the QRD, as well as on the Pixel 2 and the Note 8.

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Kraken (lower is better)

Octane (higher is better)

SunSpider (lower is better)

Jetstream (higher is better)

Wrap Up

Overall, and across all the benchmark tests, the Snapdragon 845 performed well and within the expectation range set out by Qualcomm. In some instances  like Geekbench  the level of performance was not quite to the level suggested by Qualcomm although the difference was negligible and within an acceptable margin of error. As mentioned already, these results were taken from one device (although in some instances the tests were performed more than once) and others who were also testing at the same time were getting varied results where sometimes their devices scored better, and at other times worse. Therefore the results here are not designed to be an approximate or even a solid indicator of what performance will be like when the 845 arrives at the consumer level. In either case, and taking into consideration the variable nature of device-to-device differences, as well as minor discrepancies between the suggested and seen benchmark results, what is clear is how well the 845-powered QRD phone performed when compared to the Snapdragon 835-powered Pixel 2 XL and Galaxy Note 8. In every instance not only did the 845 perform better (as would be expected), but it did so convincingly and over repeated tests.

It is also worth keeping in mind that these benchmark tests took place in a back-to-back fashion over the course of a couple of hours. During this time the phone was continuously in use and having a heavy load placed on it. This is even more relevant when taking the AnTuTu results into consideration as that particular benchmark was ran last. Even then, and while others noted some discrepancy between the suggested and seen values, we did not  with the QRD phone performing exactly within Qualcomms suggested range.The Galaxy Note 9 will almost certainly be Samsungs first Android smartphone with an in-display fingerprint reader, according to new reports from China citing a number of patents recently awarded to the South Korean tech giant. Samsung is apparently still unwilling to rely on a third-party solution such as the one offered by Synaptics and wants the in-screen fingerprint scanner of the Galaxy Note 9 to be based on its own technology. While that approach is likely to increase the smartphones research and development costs, it should save money for Samsung in the long term as it will allow the company to simply iterate on its existing technology for its future products instead of continuing to pay hefty license fees to other firms.

The image seen above has been attached to one of Samsungs patents cited by the new reports on the companys efforts in the biometric authentication segment, though the design of the handset it shows is understood to be just a reference and not representative of the Galaxy Note 9 or any other future offering from the phone maker. The Seoul-based original equipment manufacturer has been reportedly trying to embed a fingerprint sensor under the display of its flagship devices for several years now, having originally started aggressively pursuing the technology following the release of the Galaxy S7 lineup in early 2016, according to previous reports. Both the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy Note 8 series ended up missing on the technology as Samsung continued to struggle with manufacturing yield rates, industry sources repeatedly claimed.

Chinese phone maker Vivo is the first OEM to have debuted a device with a fingerprint scanner installed beneath its display, having introduced it in the form of the Vivo X20 Plus UD earlier this year. Once the technology is perfected, future Android flagships are expected to support both in-screen fingerprint readers and facial recognition solutions, allowing users to choose between either. The Galaxy Note 9 is likely to be similar to the upcoming Galaxy S9 Plus in terms of raw processing power but should also boast the lineups signature S Pen and a variety of unique features centered around the stylus. The handset is predicted to launch in late August or early September at IFA 2018, whereas the Galaxy S9 series has already been confirmed for a February 25 announcement at MWC 2018.Samsung Display is looking toward China on its quest to commercialize MicroLED panels, Korean outlet ETNews reported Sunday, citing industry sources close to the company. The Seoul-based tech giant is said to have recently signed an agreement with LED chip manufacturer Sanan Optoelectronics that will supply the company with its technologies for the next three years. The full value of the deal remains unclear, though Samsung reportedly already paid an advance amounting to nearly $17 million. The firm unveiled the worlds first modular MicroLED TV at this years iteration of the Consumer Electronics Show in early January, having presented it as The Wall, though the company still doesnt have the capacity to mass-produce such devices.

The deal with Sanan Optoelectronics is meant to help accelerate Samsungs growing ambitions in the MicroLED segment and also aligns with Chinas own plans for the technology. According to previous reports, a number of original equipment manufacturers from the Far Eastern country are planning to start commercializing MicroLED panels as early as this year, with smartphones supposedly being their test market of sorts. MicroLED displays are seen by many OEMs as a viable alternative to AMOLED modules that are expected to continue being in short supply in the immediate future, with Samsung still accounting for the vast majority of the market. While MicroLEDs potential in the TV segment is just as high, large panels using the technology arent expected to be commercialized on any significant scale in the next several years.

Much like its name implies, MicroLED utilizes numerous microscopic light-emitting diodes in order to light up individual pixels much like an OLED panel does, offering perfect blacks and energy-efficient performance. The solution essentially mimicks OLED modules using inorganic materials, hence being capable of delivering higher peak brightness and better contrast. While its current manufacturing costs arent low relative to OLED panels, MicroLED technologies could be just as affordable to commercialize in the future, many industry watchers believe. Samsungs commitment to Sanan Optoelectronics also marks yet another step in the companys long-term diversification plan thats seeking new growth engines which could replace its currently booming chip business once the global demand for high-end silicon starts declining in the coming years.Sprint Chief Executive Officer Marcelo Claure and a number of the companys other top officials visited the Federal Communications Commission last Tuesday to complain about the red tap surrounding 5G deployment, urging the regulator to do what it can to eliminate the barriers to the rollout of the next generation of wireless networks. The meeting detailed in last weeks ex parte filing from Sprint saw the mobile service provider argue that the current state of the industry-wide regulations is significantly delaying its efforts to install the infrastructure it needs to improve the coverage and capacity of its network, in addition to inhibiting its 5G efforts, both in terms of small cell and macrocell deployment.

The move is just the latest step in Sprints lobbying initiative aimed at removing various legal barriers to infrastructural buildouts in the United States. Last month, the Overland Park, Kansas-based telecom giant wrote to the FCC to highlight the same issue using an example of its recently proposed review of six cell sites in Chicago. Despite asking for approval of what it described as a minor revision of its existing sites that wouldnt require any ground disturbance or infrastructural changes, the company has been presented with a $90,000 review fee before local authorities even agreed to evaluate its request. The bill was justified by the fact that Sprint was forced to ask for approval from local tribal nations which the wireless carrier deemed unjust because none of the historic sites in the vicinity of its stations were related to tribal history. The delegate led by Mr. Claure once again recalled that example during its Tuesday meeting with FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, though the federal regulator has yet to reveal how it responded to it.

Sprint recently vowed to start deploying a mobile 5G network in the U.S. over the first half of 2019, adding that its service will be offered alongside 5G-ready smartphones from a leading Korean manufacturer, presumably referring to Samsung and its Galaxy S10 lineup expected to be launched early next year. Much like the other three national carriers, Sprint is expecting to offer countrywide 5G coverage by 2020, though it remains to be seen whether the current barriers to small cell deployment could delay such roadmaps.While smartphones have always been tools for consumers to listen to, and speak through, their purpose in this respect has grown considerably over the last couple of years. As although basic speaker and microphone functionality has been enough in the past to make and receive calls, smartphones have now adopted the role of many other products. Assuming the position of an audio playback device being one of the most obvious examples, and always listening devices one of the most recent examples.

Voice Assistants are getting better

Always listening is something that is now drawing the attention of Qualcomm in particular as while OEMs can simply include better quality speakers and microphones to offer an improved user experience, Qualcomm has looked to increase the performance of voice assistants at the software level through its Snapdragon platform. Something which the company was keen to showcase last week to the media through the help of a number of behind-the-scenes lab tours.

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One of the most relevant examples is how Qualcomm is looking to use the Snapdragon platform to make any listening device more responsive. What Qualcomm is specifically looking to improve on here is how well these assistants can hear the end user. That is, how well the user can be heard in terms of clarity of understanding, as well as clarity under environmental pressures  such as in the presence of other noises. To highlight the advancements now being made Qualcomm welcomed the media to what it calls its Kitchen lab. This is a room which has been made to look like a small open-plan kitchen and living area complete with many of the things and furniture to simulate a real-world room and many of the environmental aspects that could impact on end user experience. Using a reference design smart speaker playing Happy by Pharrell Williams, at increasingly higher volume levels, Qualcomm showed how much better devices are now performing in this respect and in a very timely fashion.

Though different in its end results, the same underlying voice UI technology also does impact on the user experience through smartphones. As the common aspect here is Qualcomm looking to improve how well devices (whatever they are) hear and respond, and even when under greater external pressures. Therefore whether the user is interacting with a voice assistant through a smart speaker in a busy room, through their smartphone on a busy street, or for that matter in another language, the same level of response can be expected.

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Beamforming is Qualcomms secret sauce

If there was a need to sum up where Qualcomm ultimately wants to improve its audio qualities going forward it would be beamforming. As while this is an aspect that Qualcomm is looking to improve on with virtual assistants (and especially in smart speakers), beamforming seemed to be central to most, if not all, of the demonstrations the media were made privy to last week.

For those new to beamforming, this is essentially the description of technology that allows the signal of one thing to be more focused. For example, while beamforming can improve range in general (like with Wi-Fi), it also has the capability to specifically focus in on one user or device. Per the Wi-Fi example, this attribute would be less about extending range in general and more about identifying the sweet spot in a room where you could place a Wi-Fi-enabled device to fully optimize the strength of the conenction. This type of improvement is where Qualcomm really wants to lead the market and in all of the implementations of its Smart Audio Platform. As while beamforming has some obvious benefits for always listening  like for example specifically picking up the voice of a user in certain positions (or the ability to focus in on a user and not the room)  Qualcomm wants the opposite to be true as well. Where not only are devices making better use of beamforming for listening but also for relaying sound back to the user.

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This was most neatly demonstrated through devices which look to provide a 3D or spatial audio experience and was something which came up time and time again during the lab tours. On one occasion Qualcomm had visitors enter a cinema room where video soundtracks were played through a reference design soundbar. What was most impressive about this demo was not only was the soundbar able to redistribute the sound waves so the user assumed they were coming from the front, behind and sides (3D-like) but also how the 3D output could be further accentuated in certain positions  once again, the use of a sweet spot to really amplify the effects of distributing sound (from a device that is positioned in front of you) to attack from all angles.

Next-gen VR is about the sound

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Similar 3D-like experiences were demonstrated as a means to showcase how the next wave of VR headsets will provide an even more immersive experience. As although the form factor of a sound bar has been changed to headphones in this demonstration the end result was the same  where those engaging with the VR demo were subjected to multi-directional sound attacks.

The demonstration itself was a space-themed, minimal-interaction, game/video where the user not only visually felt as if they were in the space hanger, but the audio enhancements compounded that feeling to the point where the user could close their eyes and hear where everything was coming from and going to. Enhancements which arguably complete the immersive experience by providing the illusion of sound depth.

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Audio, audio, and more audio

Although the use of VR and immersive speakers proved to be the best use cases to amplify the improvements Qualcomm is making, there were plenty of more traditional demonstrations on show as well. For example Qualcomm also showed off one of its anechoic (echo-free) chambers (shown in the hero image) and explained how it uses rooms such as this to help improve the general smartphone user experience through the use of algorithms designed to increase echo cancellation and noise reduction. Once again, targeting the audio properties of a smartphone for use when it is in close proximity (by the ear or just in front of the mouth). As well as demonstrations and explanations on how its Hi-Fi DAC is improving while also leading the way in battery management. Something which again in specifically going to appeal to smartphone and mobile-based audio playback devices as while the quality is getting better so are the demands the technology puts on battery strain. In short, how devices powered by Qualcomms Snapdragon and Aqstic solutions are now capable of running off a single smartphone battery for hours and hours  barring the introduction of any other smartphone element, such as the display. While these demos tended to more focus on promoting the refinement process of its technologies, their combination with the demos showcasing next-gen products did highlight how important Qualcomm sees audio at the chip level, in general.

Wrap up

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Arguably, Qualcomm has already cemented its position as the go-to chip for mobile products. Most, if not all, of the currently flagship smartphones (as well as other platform devices like VR products powered by Daydream, smart speakers, and so on) typically make use of Snapdragon chips, processes and technologies. However that is the now and with increased competition in the chipset market it is sometimes important to understand why something has become the go-to option in the first place. From Qualcomms perspective, it is the forward-thinking features and future-proofing aspects of its solutions that helps the company and its products to stand apart from the competition  something Qualcomm has looked to reiterate over and over again. As while some companies are responding to market changes by adding features and supports, by that time Qualcomm is usually on its second, third, and sometimes fourth-generation of the same technology  which is the message Qualcomm is really looking to get across. Not, what Qualcomms Snapdragon and related technologies can do, but more so how well-advanced and feature-rich they already are. The current round of lab tours was specifically designed to highlight this point in terms of audio, although the same argument could be made for other Snapdragon-related areas just look at the companys approach to 5G.The Xiaomi Mi 7s specs leaked a couple of days ago, along with a rather sketchy render of the phone, and now the devices spec sheet popped up again, though this time were looking at an actual screenshot that was allegedly taken using the Mi 7. This screenshot reveals that the Mi 7 will be fueled by the Snapdragon 845 64-bit octa-core processor, like most rumors and leaks suggested, while it will ship with 8GB of RAM, at least this variant will, as theres a chance that Xiaomi may launch a 6GB RAM model of the Mi 7 as well.

The device in question is running Android 8.1 Oreo, while MIUI 9.2.5.0 is installed on top of it, which suggests that the Mi 7 may ship with Android 8.1 Oreo, which would be quite a surprise, as most users actually expected it to ship with Android 7.1 Nougat or Android 8.0 Oreo. This variant of the phone also packs in 128GB of internal storage, it seems, at least the leaked screenshots claims that to be the case. The phones display info hasnt been mentioned here, but the Mi 7 is expected to ship with a fullHD+ (2160 x 1080) panel, even though theres a chance Xiaomi may opt for a QHD+ display instead, well just have to wait and see what will happen. The Mi 7 will almost certainly ship with a dual camera setup on the back, which is also something that hasnt been mentioned in the leaked screenshot. The device will sport wireless charging, that much has been confirmed by the company, which means that its backside will be covered by either glass or ceramic.

The Xiaomi Mi 7 will not be announced during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, our source at the company confirmed that, instead, it will be introduced during a separate post-MWC event in March or April. It remains to be seen if the company plans to release the Mi 7 and Mi 7 Plus, as both have been rumored, or is the Mi 7 Plus only a rumor and nothing more than that. It is also worth noting that a leak from the other day claims that the Mi 7 will ship with a 5.6-inch display, which is possible, especially considering were looking at an 18:9 display here, which means that the device will still be quite compact, especially if its bezels end up being considerably thinner than bezels weve seen on the Mi 6.As announced by the Belgian Ministry of Defense at a press conference in December 2017, the Belgian Air Force launched its air operations in Mali, Serge Van Heertum reports. To complete the tasks of tactical transport and medical evacuation, two of the 18th flight squadron's NH-90TTH Caiman (RN06 and RN07) left the Beauvechain base on February 5th.



One of the two Belgian NH90 helicopters being loaded in an Antonov An-124 (Picture source: Serge Van Heertum)

In order to transport the two machines, the necessary equipment and a dozen technicians, the Russian company "Volga-Dnepr" equipped with Antonov An-124 was called upon. Currently Belgium is not able to provide such a type of transport, the C-130H does not allow the loading of an NH-90 and the A400M is not yet operational under Belgian colors.

To achieve this extraordinary transport, the helicopters were partially dismantled. Thus, the four blades of the main rotor were removed, as well as a tail rotor blade. Some external elements such as some antennas have also been removed to avoid touching the internal structures of the Antonov.

As part of this mission, the two helicopters flying over themselves was also taken in consideration. However, the setting up of such a transfer would have cost much more if you count the flying hours necessary (precious hours that aren't used to carry out the actual missions), the technical stops along the way, the time needed for the planning of the flight plans and stops, but also having to pass close to sensitive areas along the route.

As can be seen, the solution chosen to cover more than 6,000 kilometers was the best and it was under the NATO SALIS program (Strategic Airlift Interim Solution) that transport to Mali was assured. For the members of the Belgian 18th squadron, this type of transport was not a trial run: indeed, two NH-90TTHs were transported in the same way to Gabon to participate in the large-scale exercise "Tropical Storm", which took place from September 15th to October 15th, 2017. This size of exercise, allowed to refine the logistics approach and adapt the maintenance of helicopters in operation before moving into real operations.

The An-124-100 (RA-82077) of "Volga-Dnepr" landed on runway 04 at 09:52 local time, and immediately parked, the delicate loading could start. After a little bit more than 3 hours, everything was on board and stowed, allowing the Antonov and precious cargo to take off from the Beauvechain runway at 13:43 to head for the Bamako airport.

During the operation, the NH-90s will be based in Gao, but the reassembly of the machines had to be done in Bamako before passing in flight towards their final destination and probably with a fuel stop at Mopti.

Once in Bamako, the technical teams had the task of reassembling, and performing the necessary tests before the transit flight. As of February 5, at the end of the day, the reassembly began, the tests having been carried on three days later, on February 8. Both machines were declared operational as from 9 February.

Note that the two NH-90s will have to work in a much dustier and technically "hostile" environment. Thus, both helicopters are equipped with blades treated with a special coating providing better protection against dust and pebbles found in sandy soils of the desert type. This special coating obviously modifies the weight of the blades and during the tests, a re-balancing was necessary.According to the newspaper website The Baltic Times, the Minister of Defense of Latvia will sign an agreement with the German Company EuroSpike GmbH to purchase the Israeli-made Spike anti-tank missile. EuroSpike is the prime contractor to market the Spike missile family for European customers.



Spike-LR uses by Polish soldiers (Picture source Rafael)

The development of anti-tank capabilities is one of the main project of the Latvian Defense forces, which will be used for infantry units but also mounted on tracked reconnaissance armoured vehicle CVRT. It is planned that Spike anti-tank missile could enter in service with Latvian armed forces by 2023.

Currently, the Spike missile is used by 28 countries in the world including, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Ecuador, Finland, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Romania, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain and United Kingdom in different configurations.

EuroSpike GmbH is a joint venture company of Diehl BGT Defence GmbH & Co. KG (Uberlingen, Germany), Rheinmetall Defence Electronics GmbH (Bremen, Germany) and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. (Haifa, Israel).

The SPIKE Family consists of missiles suited for land, air and sea platforms, multiple ranges and a variety of targets. The missiles in this family have sophisticated electro-optic CCD or IIR sensors for day/night all-weather operation, as well as a tandem warhead. Spike is a fire-and-forget missile with lock-on before launch and automatic self-guidance. The missile is equipped with an imaging infrared seeker. The NLOS (Non Line Of Sight)version of the Spike missile has a maximum firing range of 25 km.

Non-line of sight is a term often used when the radio transmitter and receiver are not in the direct visual line of sight, and this is dealt with by the use of multiple paths in signal propagation.

There is two main types of Spike missile, the SPIKE-ER which is an extended-range, multi-purpose anti-armor missile system designed for mounting on various platforms, including helicopters, fast boats and combat vehicles. The SPIKE-MR and SPIKE-LR which is the man-portable version in the Spike family.The army of Azerbaijan has recently received a large batch of new military equipment from Russia, in accordance with the intergovernmental agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation. According a statement from the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan of February 8, 2018, the new Russian military equipment and combat vehicles were used during training exercises.



Russian-made T-90S of Azerbaijan army at military parade in Baku. (Picture source Print Scren video YouTube)

Since its independence in 1991, Azerbaijan has teh goal to increase the capability of its armed forces with new modernization programs and acquisition. Azerbaijan purchases different weaponry from Russia, Israel, Turkey, Pakistan, and Belarus. The country also builds up its own capabilities to produce new weaponry. Following an invitation of the Ministry of Defense Industry and the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan, each ADEX exhibition is visited by high-ranking international military delegations led by ministers and their deputies, along with the chiefs of law enforcement and security agencies and export organizations.

Since 2014, Azerbaijan alos organizes ADEX, an International Defense Exhibition in Baku that was attended by 558 companies representing 31 countries worldwide. The next defense exhibition in Azerbaijan will take place from the 25 to 27 September 2018.

The draft military budget for 2018, released by the of Azerbaijan Ministry of Finance on October 9, 2017, outlines plans to increase the defense budget to $1.6 billion, representing a 3.7 percent increase over 2017s allocation of $1.56 billion. The 2018 allocation include $800 million in funding for the Armed Forces, $60 million for national security and $740 million in other defense spending.

According to the SIPRI (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute) arms trade database, since 2010, Azerbaijan has purchase lot of military equipment from Russia including 100 anti-tank missiles AT-14, 2 batteries of S-300 PMU2 surface-to-air defense missile system, 18 2S19 152mm self-propelled howitzer, 18 2S31 Vena 120 mortar carrier tracked vehicle, an undisclosed number off BTR-82A 8x8 armoured vehicle personnel carrier, 118 BMP-3 IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicle, 100 T-90S main battle tank, 18 TOS-1A Flamethrower System, and 2 SA-11 surface-to-air defense systems.

Azerbaijan has also signed numerous defense contracts to strengthen its armed forces and to train its military with Turkey's assistance. Over the last 15 years, Azerbaijan has been preparing its military for possible action against Armenian forces in Nagorno-Karabakh.

The remarkable Woody Herman big band of the mid-1940s never made a studio recording of the roaring blues called Red Top. As the swing era was losing ground to bebop, the Herman First Herd blended the best of both genres. Todays edition of Mosaic Records Gazette includes Red Top from a 1945 Herman radio broadcast, along with an extensive history of the Herman band by the swing era scholar Michael Zirpolo. Soloists include pianist Ralph Burns, tenor saxophonist Flip Phillips, trombonist Bill Harris and the arsonist trumpeter Pete Candoli. To hear that rare performance and read Zirpolos essay, click here.

Mosaic evidently long ago sold out its seven-CD box set of the Herman bands 1945-1947 Columbia recordings. It has become a collectors item. Alert web browsers may be able to track it down on some sites; this one, for instance. Good luck. Its a treasure.By: Linh Tran Huy

Editor: Thibaut Minot

In the first part of this two-part article, we discussed Frances investments in Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam. Reiterating the continued importance of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a FDI destination for European investors, we look at French FDI in Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia in this concluding part.

RELATED: Pre-Investment and Market Entry Advisory from Dezan Shira & Associates

Thailand: from manufacturing to innovation

Thailand has long been regarded as an attractive investment destination. Its popularity has only increased further in recent years thanks to numerous government incentive policies, clear regulations and infrastructure development efforts. In 2016, FDI inflows totaled THB 358.11 billion, with a total of 925 projects, a slightly lower performance than in 2015 but still solid. France has strong economic relations with Thailand, with investments totaling EUR 4 billion in 2014 (an increase of 250 percent compared to 2006) and exports of EUR 1 745 million in 2016, i.e. 11.8 percent of the total investments of France in ASEAN the same year. The most popular import sector is electrical and electronic products, which account for 38.9 percent of Thai imports to France in 2016. Conversely, the most popular export sector is transportation services, supported by Airbus deliveries. In the eyes of many French investors, the maturity and economic fundamentals of the country make up for the political turmoil of recent years. As for the drop in imports of textile products (-30.7 percent compared to 2007), this is part of an overall trend of relocation of factories to countries with lower wages. In addition, the governments new development initiative, also known as Thailand 4.0, aims to elevate the country to the rank of a high-income country through a true technological transformation.

Smart Thailand: new opportunities

The Thailand 4.0 project seeks to galvanize 10 key industries (including digital, electronics, agro-food processing, robotics and tourism) through innovation. The buzzwords are: smart manufacturing and especially smart farming. Artificial intelligence, sensory technology and automation ensure more productivity and quality with fewer resources. One of the governments priorities is to build digital hubs to accommodate SMEs. The US$ 283.8 million investment by the Ministry of Finance in the Science Park for the Food Innopolis initiative, for example, aims to make Thailand a hub of global agri-food innovation, with 9,000 food factories, 150 research laboratories, 3,000 researchers and 70 universities. Apart from the agri-food industry, we could mention the progress of the automotive industry (especially hybrid and electric), as well as the growth of SMEs in e-commerce.

There is, however, room for improvement when it comes to Thailands supply of human capital. Despite the remarkable investments in ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) and in the training of students, the Chinese electronics giant Huawei Technologies noticed in 2016 a lack of experts in computer science and digital understanding, especially in view of the countrys ambitions: a gap that could be filled by the expertise of foreign investors.

Study: French companies in Thailand

Thailand hosts about 350 French companies, including 200 SMEs and about 100 individual entrepreneurs. Eric Savettat, head of the economic service at the French Embassy, underlines the opportunities for French companies in urban planning (water, electricity, and signage) within the framework of project 4.0. He also mentioned opportunities in terms of scientific cooperation. It would be impossible not to mention multinationals such as Schneider Electric with its electronic, digital and energy modernization solutions, which, from last year, launched the Light It Up initiative aimed at electrifying less developed regions of the country with solar panels. Encouraged by this new vision of the Thai government, Valeo, a supplier of automotive parts and smart technologies, wants to strengthen its position, as evidenced by its recent acquisitions in the automotive industry such as the Ichikoh Group. The acquisition boosted its manufacturing power in Thailand and its expertise to respond to technological changes, not uncommon in the industry.

The country has also become a home for a large number of French technology startups. Kyklo, a cloud platform created by former Schneider executives to facilitate electromechanical e-commerce, is one example. The company, set up in 2015, has already won numerous awards.

Indonesia: a hidden consumption hub

The last diplomatic tour of Francois Hollande ended on March 29, 2017 in Indonesia, marking the first visit of a French head of state to the country since 1986. The goal for Paris was first and foremost economic in nature, with ties proposed to be boosted through a series of projects equivalent to EUR 3.21 billion with one of ASEANs largest economies. Indeed, Indonesia, with GDP growth of 5 percent in 2016, is particularly well-known for its emerging middle class and huge consumer potential. While FDIs only accounted for 15 percent of GDP in 2000, they came to occupy almost 30 percent of GDP in 2014. French-Indonesian trade amounted to EUR 4.4 billion in 2016, an increase of 13 percent year-on-year, with exports from France to Indonesia amounting to EUR 2.44 billion and imports of EUR 1.55 billion. Despite obstacles, it would be wise not to underestimate the potential of the largest market in Southeast Asia.

Various industries



The two main sectors remain the mining and manufacturing sectors. Although a large number of manufacturing industries are dominated by local companies, foreign investment is particularly important in machinery and electronic products (FDI of US$ 3.9 billion in 2016, 2,185 projects) and in chemicals and pharmaceuticals (US$ 2.9 billion, 1,096 projects), according to the Indonesian Bureau of Investment Coordination (BKPM). In recent years, the food industry has particularly increased in FDI flows, amounting to US$ 2.1 billion, or US$ 3.7 billion if we include food crops and plantations.

A consumer market

With a population of 261.1 million people, Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world. Its middle class is experiencing the fastest growth in the region, with a GDP per capita of US$ 3,603 in 2016 compared to US$ 857 in 2005. Said consumer class is expected to increase by 60 percent by 2020, from 88 million to 141 million people according to a BCG report. Pascal Furth, head of the economic department at the French Embassy in Jakarta, describes the country as a must-see market.

In response, foreign investors in the retail trade have flocked in recent years, such as Sogo (Japan), Lotte (Korea) and Galeries Lafayette (France). At first glance, they have invested in the most developed urban agglomerations where infrastructure and standard of living complement each other, such as Jakarta or Surabaya. However, there is increasing investment from smaller companies in more remote areas, where there is less competition and where it is theoretically easier to build on. However, the countrys geography (the largest archipelago in the world with 17,500 islands) makes the task arduous.

Infrastructure and corruption: two problematic components

Indonesia ranks 91st out of 190 countries in the ranking of countries where it is easier to do business, according to the World Bank. The main issues are infrastructure, inefficient bureaucracy and level of corruption, according to the 2016-17 Global Competitiveness Report. The Indonesian road network is equivalent to 508 000 km, of which 287 926 km or 56.7 percent are often blocked or congested, with very few alternatives in terms of public transport or related roads. With regard to corruption, recent government efforts do not completely fill the lack of confidence in the private sector and can still hurt business. In the case of a joint venture and corruption of local partners, foreign companies themselves risk legal action and exclusion from financial institutions such as the Asian Development Bank.

A potential still little exploited

Several reports from McKinsey predict that Indonesia will become the seventh largest economy in 2030, ahead of Germany and the United Kingdom, with a consumer class of 160 million people and an urban population of 209 million. During the last presidential visit, the representative of a large French group in Jakarta spoke of hidden nugget: if the Jokowi administration continues in its reforms, French companies who braved the first pitfalls could be highly rewarded.

Study: French multinationals and SMEs aim at the middle class

The list is long: Carrefour, Danone, Aventis, Accor, France Telecom and many other French companies are targeting this growing consumer market. Danone has a monopoly on the supply of water bottles through the Aqua brand, producing more than 10 billion liters of water locally in 2015. The substantial marketing campaign carried out in the first half of 2017 has all the more contributed to its success in Indonesia, making Aqua the best-selling bottled water in the world. The development of the population has also led to improvements in the health system and consequently the construction of several hundred hospitals, clinics, medical equipment and medicines: Ceva, Essilor and Sanofi have been able to jump on the opportunity. At the beginning of the year, it modernized its production center in East Jakarta in order to become one of the most important pharmaceutical manufacturing hubs in the world, certainly with the aim of better covering the Indonesian population.

The Philippines: in the middle of the value chain

The Philippines posted GDP growth of 6.8 percent in 2016, surpassing China and Vietnam and following the line set by the Aquino administration. FDI also increased in 2016, reaching US$ 7.93 billion and surpassing the US$ 5.1 billion accumulated in 2015, representing a growth of 22.2 percent. Regarding the French-Philippine economic relations, these remain relatively modest; the Philippines accounted for 0.2 percent of imports to France and 5.5 percent of French sales in ASEAN in 2016. Trade in 2016 amounted to EUR 1.66 billion, down from previous years. However, several factors indicate a positive impact. First, FDI itself remains strong thanks to the recent establishment of large groups (Total, Essilor, Lafarge, LOreal to name a few). Secondly, Francois Hollandes five-year period was marked by diplomatic visits aimed at strengthening trade relations between the two countries as well as the visibility of French multinationals for potential public-private partnerships (PPP). Finally, on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Phil French, an event intended to promote France in the Philippines throughout the year, has all the more multiplied the initiatives of high-tech entrepreneurship with the French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines. Future prospects look good, with Rodrigo Dutertes 10-point economic program focused on goals such as improving the business environment, developing rural areas, investing in human capital, and implementing tax reforms that would benefit FDI.

IT services: pillar of the economy and investments



The Philippines is one of the worlds top offshoring destinations (with Manila and Cebu in 2nd and 7th places respectively) with a lower cost labor force but with a high level of education and very good English proficiency. One can observe the many investments in ICT (70 percent of whose revenues come from foreign structures): the call centers, computer processing, software development and multimedia content creation are numerous in the country, forming a total of 243 Parks or ICT Centers based on statistics from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority in October 2016. The Philippines surpassed India in 2011 to become the undisputed leader in Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and are now targeting the podium of Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO), a sector that is only growing.

The manufacturing sector: an identity crisis in the value chain?

FDI inputs to the Philippines in terms of manufacturing remain below those of its ASEAN neighbors. The growth of the manufacturing sector, and in particular of electronic products (the main Philippine exports) in the 2000-2011 period, pale against the Vietnamese miracle (1.9 percent compared to 25.5 percent). Although an exporter of high added-value products, assembly is in itself a basic task that does not require a particularly skilled workforce, which encourages investors to look for even cheaper destinations such as Indonesia or Vietnam. On the other hand, the high level of education and the environment do not seem to be enough for investors seeking to deliver even more sophisticated and innovative products and services that will find their salvation in Singapore. This unfavorable reality is well illustrated by the OECDs 2015 Global Value Chain Participation Index, where the Philippines is right in the middle, in other words too expensive for low value-added manufacturing but perhaps not attractive enough for the production of very high-tech services, which raises questions with regards to the countrys comparative advantage.

Finding your identity: opportunities for foreign investors

Yet the Philippines is not lacking assets. Its main advantage is its relatively skilled workforce with a strong command of English, ideal for products and services with a certain added value. Foreign investors who choose the Philippines are targeting specialized niche markets that require a certain level of skill and technology. The Filipino Investment Bureau, seeking to overcome the competitive wall, presented this year a list of sectors in which FDI is encouraged through various incentives: agri-food processing and household appliances in the manufacturing sector; exploitation of alternative and renewable energy sources and the fight against global warming, as well as the installation of research and development centers and incubators as engines of innovation.

Study: French companies in various sectors

Teleperformance is one of the first customer service outsourcing companies to be established in the Philippines in the 1990s. Today, the French group is the world leader in its field. Many leading companies want to outsource their call centers in the country. In other service-related areas, one of the best-known examples would be Alcatel-Lucent, which in recent years has worked extensively with Globe Telecom to install 4G in the country. Finally, we could mention the recent case of Alstom and Bouygues, which, through an agreement of EUR 450 million with the Metro Pacific Investment Corporation, are currently working on the extension and maintenance of Line 1 of Metro Manila and aim 2020 as the deadline for completion. SMEs are not left out: Sabella, an SME headquarters out of the Brittany region of France, is expected to complete the construction of the countrys (and ASEANs) first tidal farm in 2019. France has particularly valued expertise in terms of infrastructure modernization.

Conclusion: ASEAN, a promising future

The moment seems propitious for French investors interested in ASEAN, for two main reasons. The first is Chinas declining competitiveness in some aspects. High wages and the fading of certain preferential regulations push some companies to adopt a China + 1 model, relocating their production centers in ASEAN while keeping a base in the Middle Kingdom for high added value manufacturing. The second reason is the growing attractiveness of these countries, both for their wages and for their middle classes and industrial clusters. Other factors, such as the failure of the TPP and Brexit, strengthen Frances position vis-a-vis its partners. If current economic agreements permit, France may soon become the main engine of EU-ASEAN relations.Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.Former Aussie leader elected senior partner at global firm

Andrew Darwin, the former Australian managing partner at DLA Piper has been elected as the global firms senior partner.



His appointment was confirmed on Monday following a two-stage election process and he takes up the new role immediately. He will also be nominated to sit as co-chair of the firms global board.



"It is a great honour for me to be elected Senior Partner. I have spent my whole working career at the firm and I am very proud to have played a key role in the development of the global law firm it is today.



Darwin joined the firm as a trainee in 1981, made partner in 1987 in the corporate group and went to hold several senior leadership roles including managing partner of the Australian arm of the firm from 2013.

He was also chief operating officer for the firms non-US operations until April 2017 when he became managing director of developing markets.



The firms head of corporate, Bob Bishop; and corporate partner Jon Hayes; were also in the running for senior partner following the departure of Juan Picon who left after 10 years to join Latham & Watkins.

First female chair at Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbrights head of Islamic finance in Europe is to become the firms next chair, marking a milestone as its first female in the role.



London-based banking and finance partner Farmida Bi will take up the chair in May for a three-year term, succeeding Stephen Parish, and will help to steer the firm through its 2020 business transformation program.



I am privileged to be the first female partner to become Chair at Norton Rose Fulbright LLP, commented Bi. Following on from Stephen, and all that he has done for our business, is a great honour. I look forward to working with my talented colleagues around the world, building on our successes and the continued investment in our clients and people.

Partner rejoins Latham & Watkins in Hong Kong

Capital markets partner Benjamin Lu is heading back to Latham & Watkins, in the corporate practice in Hong Kong.



Lus practice focuses on corporate and securities law matters, and he returns to Latham from Kirkland & Ellis.



Ben is a highly regarded capital markets practitioner in the Greater China region, and we are very pleased to welcome him back to the firm, said Josef Athanas, Office Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins in Hong Kong.kWh

PHEV

SUV

According to Automotive News Europe , the all-new model is set to go official on March 6 at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. Starting with the underpinnings, the 508 will wave farewell to the PF3 platform in favor of the EMP2, with the latter already proven by the 3008 and 5008 crossovers.To be offered as a sedan and family-oriented station wagon, the 2019 Peugeot 508 serves as the building block for the next-generation Citroen C5 . The Citroen-badged counterpart has been confirmed to arrive in Europe no later than 2020, hydropneumatic suspension technology and all.Chief executive officer Carlos Tavares made it clear the 508 will get semi-autonomous driving features such as automatic steering and braking, which is a step in the right direction for Peugeot and Groupe PSA. After all, every player in the automotive industry is investing a lot of money in this sort of technology, with the target being Level 5 autonomy In comparison to the diesel-hybrid model known as RXH , the all-new Peugeot 508 will go eco-friendly with a more conventional powertrain. That would be a plug-in hybrid that integrates a 200-horsepower engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, two electric motors worth an additional 100 horsepower, and a 13-lithium-ion battery. In the case of the EMP2-based DS7 Crossback, customers can expect an all-electric range of up to 60 kilometers (37 miles).The timing for introducing an all-new generation of the 508 couldnt be better. Sales fell a mind-boggling 39 percent in Europe in 2017 (22,724 examples), and Peugeot isnt the only automaker in this situation. D-segment sedans are all suffering because of the crossover andonslaught, though most automakers arent quite ready to kill these models off in order to make room for more utility vehicles.Well, actually, that's exactly it: they won't even bother to read it as you would in its mother tongue, but adapt it to their own. It's common nature, probably part of our genetically-inherited tendency of making things easier for us.Since Dacia stems from Romania, a relatively small Easter European country known mostly for the dictator who ruled it until 1989, its gymnasts, and being the home of everyone's favorite vampire, Count Dracula, nobody really cares how the brand's name would sound coming from the mouths of any of these unofficial ambassadors.And it's not like the problem is restricted to Romania. You probably aren't reading Skoda , the Czech brand now under VW's umbrella, the right way either, as for the French brands, God have mercy, we're ready to assume it's a phonetic massacre.Europe's most important market, Germany, isn't spared either. In fact, the Germans got so tired of it they went as far as making a video about it where they would correct the pronunciation of the most important names, with the star of the show being, of course, Porsche Dacia may not be at the same level as the Zuffenhausen-based carmaker, but it's still rapidly becoming one of the respected names in the business thanks to its honest cars selling for very reasonable prices. Which is why Dacia UK thought it would be appropriate to release a clip that's kind of telling everyone what the brand's name should sound like.Using KC and the Sunshine Band's "That's the Way (I Like It)" song, the team turned it into "Dacia Way, I Like It!" and made a commercial around it. Using a very strong '80s vibe, it's mostly people dancing around with big afros, shiny clothes and the like, with the Dacia Duster (the old model) also making an occasional appearance.Ironically enough, the voiceover (which seems to belong to legendary punk poet John Cooper Clarke) says "worked out how to say our name yet? We've only sung it 400 times," and just as you're expecting to hear it read loud and clear, the commercial ends with you left hanging. And, no, the way they sang it is not exactly what it should sound like.Despite his fizzy personality and his undeniable popularity inside the automotive world (even though not everybody thinks highly of him, they all know who he is), Musk wasn't such a trending search on Google. People were much more interested in all sorts of recipes, advice on how to remove pet hair from clothes, and stuff like that.It all changed on the eve of the Falcon Heavy launch on February 6, last week, when Elon Musk spiked through the roof on Google's graph, enough to give him a lead on average over the past seven days on celebrities with a much wider public.One such good example is Kim Kardashian, a name you hear very often whether you care about the shallow world of celebrities or not. You may not know what she did to become a star, but you're probably aware of the fact she's married to Kanye West - which sort of explains a few things.During the past week, the Google graph shows Kim only managed to beat Elon Musk on two lonely occasions, with the Tesla Inc. and SpaceX CEO sitting well above for most of the time. The tendency, however, is for Musk to return to his usual Google-trending status, so the wonder is likely to be short-lived.The regional spread shows that Mexico was among the few countries to ignore Musk during this period, putting the Central American country in the not so flattering company of Venezuela, Columbia, Kenya, Nigeria, and Iran, among a few others.But it wasn't just the most famous of Kardashians that fell prey to Musk's stunt. President Donald Trump also found himself trailing, but only when using the full name. However, even Musk had to admit to an overwhelming defeat when compared to the "Olympics." Well, you can't beat all of them.NEDC

The Zoe, which is a subcompact hatchback that sells better than any other electric vehicle available in Europe, went into production in 2012. June 2015 saw Renault introduce a different electric motor, while October 2016 brought forward an optional battery pack with 41 kWh of all-electric juice on tap.In order to keep the Zoe relevant in a segment thats getting more crowded with each and every year, Renault is expected to lift the veils off the R110 at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. The newest addition to the lineup would supersede the current R90 with 16 bhp more from its Z.E. 40 battery-powered electric motor. Not on par with the Leafs 148 bhp , but a welcomed change nonetheless considering the Zoes commercial success. Autocar reports that the R110 will be available in both Dynamique Nav and Signature Nav trims, but not the entry-level Expression. So to speak, the standard features list for the R110 will include automatic headlights and windshield wipers, hands-free keycard, 16-inch wheels, and so forth.What isnt clear is the driving range, which in the case of the Z.E. 40 is 402 kilometers or 250 miles (). The second-generation Nissan Leaf, by comparison, is WLTP -rated 270 kilometers (168 miles) on the combined driving cycle, with the highlight coming in the form of the city estimate for the 16-inch wheeled version: 415 kilometers or 258 miles.The Zoe sold 30,134 units in 2017, an increase of 8,894 on the previous year. Next up are the Nissan Leaf and BMW i3, with Tesla expected to pull off a surprising 2018 with the arrival of the Euro-spec Model 3 sedanOpening a new chapter in the FCA Heritage story, the service is downright straightforward. First things first, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles tracks down an Italian classic with the potential to be restored to its former glory. Once the restoration with all-original parts is finished, the car in question is then listed for sale on the Reloaded by Creators section on fcaheritage.com At launch, the program has five cars ready for delivery. The list starts with a 1959 Lancia Appia Coupe, continues with a 1973 Lancia Fulvia Coupe Montecarlo, and is rounded off by a Fiat 124 Spider-based 1981 Pininfarina Spidereuropa, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ, and 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider. If it isnt obvious enough, all of these cars are highly collectible.All cars models are backed by a Certificate of Authenticity, which is a first for Alfa Romeo and Fiat . In the name of safeguarding and promoting the historic legacy of Fiat Chryslers Italian brands, the Reloaded by Creators program is just what the doctor ordered for classic car enthusiasts.What happens to the money FCA gets from the sale of these cars? According to Fiat Chrysler, the sums raised will then be used to finance new scouting activities to add important new pieces to FCA's historic collection. This is therefore a real cultural project, inspired by the modus operandi of art museums worldwide. Pompous choice of words, but you get the idea.On that note, FCA didnt offer pricing information on the cars that are currently for sale. Bearing in mind the attention to detail that went into the nut-and-bolt restoration, it wouldnt be too surprising for the automaker to charge an arm and a leg even for the most common model of the lot, which is the 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider.Crossovers are perhaps the hottest sellers in the global automotive scene today. Manufacturers are rushing to churn out these high-riding 'soft-roaders' as fast as they can and Volkswagen is determined to fill in every size category possible.

Volkswagen is starting 2018 with the introduction of the third-generation Touareg by next month. In terms of size, it slots below the full-sized Atlas but when it comes to equipment levels, Volkswagen calls it their flagship crossover. After months of spy shots, Volkswagen has officially released a teaser, showing the all-new Touareg in sketch form.

The front of the next-generation Touareg features the marque's latest design language. Inspired by the Arteon, it has the slim, rectangular headlights which merge onto the larger grill. Its sides feature deep, defined creases on the doors with the rear quarter panel hinting a slightly flared look. For now, Volkswagen has yet to show off the rear but it is likely that it may draw some cues from the smaller Tiguan.

Last February 2017, our eagle-eyed spies managed to take photos of the next-gen Touareg. Compared to the outgoing model, the next-gen prototype appears larger and sleeker. Its front fascia also draws heavily from the new Tiguan and Arteon despite the heavy camouflage.

At the same time, Hinrich Woebcken, CEO of Volkswagen North American Region, told members of the press of their crossover expansion plans for the future. The CEO made this announcement during the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, In the coming years, Woebcken said that they plan to add an A-segment and B-Segment sized crossover. He added that they also aim to build two more crossovers in the 'compact and mid-sized segment'.

The all-new Volkswagen Touareg will make its official debut in Beijing on March 23, 2018.President Trumps budget plan was released on Monday, including a proposal to privatize the air traffic control system, and aviation advocates were quick to respond. The idea of handing over the nations ATC system to what amounts to an airline cartel  is bad policy, said NBAA President Ed Bolen. AOPA said the proposal doesnt have much support. After nearly two years, proponents of turning the ATC system over to a 13-member board have failed to move the proposal forward because of a lack of votes, AOPA said on Monday. Bloomberg News also said the largely symbolic proposal doesnt stand much chance of becoming reality, given strong bipartisan opposition in Congress.

The New York Times agreed, noting that presidential budgets are little more than vision statements even under normal circumstances, given that Congress controls the federal purse strings and may disregard the wishes of whomever is sitting in the Oval Office. The current FAA budget is set to expire on March 31. Its up to Congress to decide before then if they will provide another short-term fix or agree on a plan to provide longer-term funding for the agency.Israel is backtracking on Prime Minister Netanyahu's statement that he has been discussing the possibility of annexing the Jewish settlements in the West Bank with the Trump administration. After we reported on that claim, a U.S. official told me the U.S. hasn't received or agreed to any such proposals.

Between the lines: This is the first time since Trump went into the Oval Office that there is any daylight between his administration and the Netanyahu government on the Palestinian issue.

Josh Raffel, a White House spokesman, tells me: "Reports that the United States discussed with Israel an annexation plan for the West Bank are false. The United States and Israel have never discussed such a proposal, and the Presidents focus remains squarely on his Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative."The Trump administration was stunned today to hear Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's statements about discussions he claimed to have had with the White House on annexation of the Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

The bottom line: Israeli and U.S. officials told me senior Trump administration officials were unhappy, fearing the claim could derail Secretary of State Tillerson's trip to the Middle East, and gave Netanyahu and his advisers a clear demand to backtrack. The U.S. and Israeli governments had moved in lockstep on the Palestinian issue since Trump took office, until now.

How it happened

Netanyahu told lawmakers at a Likud faction meeting at the Knesset on Monday that he has been discussing the possibility of annexing the settlements with the Trump administration "for some time now." The details. The Trump administration denied that such discussions had taken place, and Israel backtracked. We now know the Trump administration demanded they do so.

Behind the scenes

Although Netanyahu's political advisers were the ones who briefed the press about his initial annexation statements, the Prime Minister and his associates tried telling the White House his remarks were taken out of context, Israeli officials said.

In the end, under U.S. pressure, Netanyahu had to issue a clarification which denied his own annexation statements from a few hours earlier.

The cause of concern

One of the reasons for the U.S. anger was the trip by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to five Arab capitals this week.

Tillerson is hoping to convince Arab leaders to urge the Palestinians to come back to the negotiations table and end their boycott over Trump's Jerusalem announcement. U.S. officials felt Netanyahu's annexation statements might sabotage Tillerson's mission.

After Netanyahu already backtracked from his statements the White House issued an unusually harsh statement against Netanyahu's annexation claims. Josh Raffel, White House spokesman said:

"Reports that the United States discussed with Israel an annexation plan for the West Bank are false. The United States and Israel have never discussed such a proposal, and the Presidents focus remains squarely on his Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative."The Bipartisan Budget Act passed last week directs the Department of Energy to sell 100 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, adding to 189 million barrels already scheduled for sale by four other major laws since 2015. (The reserve held 695 million barrels at the start of 2017.)

Why it matters: If Congress is the portfolio manager of America's public assets, lawmakers are rotating out of energy security to secure funds for drug development, infrastructure and other new priorities. The shift away from four decades of scarcity-driven energy policy is likely to reduce support for vehicle efficiency, renewable fuels mandates and alternative energy spending.

Yes, but: Selling government oil into a crowded market can dampen prices, thinning U.S. producer margins and making it harder for new technologies to compete. Meanwhile, electric cars are five to ten years away from gasoline parity and another fifteen years after that from dominating the U.S. fleet.

The bottom line: Oil prices are global and the U.S. accounts for only 10% of supply, which still leaves U.S. drivers vulnerable to disruptions half a world away.

Kevin Book is managing director at ClearView Energy Partners LLC and nonresident senior associate in the Energy and National Security Program at CSIS.In a joint letter to leaders of Congress, 151 retired three and four-star generals from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces denounced cuts to the International Affairs Budget, stressing the importance of "diplomacy and development alongside defense."

Why it matters: Many of the generals wrote a similar letter last year, after President Trump's proposed budget for 2018 slashed International Affairs spending  which funds organizations like the State Department, USAID and the Peace Corps  by nearly $20 million. Security challenges have not diminished since then, the letter states, and it would be irresponsible to "undercut our nation's ability to lead around the world in such turbulent times."While stopped in Tokyo en route to the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, Vice President Mike Pence signaled that the Trump administration plans to impose more sanctions on North Korea, further isolating Kim Jong-uns regime until it abandons its nuclear and ballistic missile programs once and for all.

Why it matters: Last year in South Korea, Pence said, The era of strategic patience is over. But anyone who has worked on North Korea understands one thing: Patience is essential. Notwithstanding the presidents talk of fire and fury, strategic patience is his current policy. The vice presidents latest pronouncements say as much.

Pences comments followed the surprise withdrawal of the nomination of Korea expert Victor Cha to be U.S. ambassador to South Korea. Cha expressed skepticism of the so-called bloody nose option, a limited military strike to retard Pyongyangs surge toward a demonstrated nuclear capability. While feasible in the abstract, it elevates the risk of escalation in reality. Hundreds of thousands of Korean, Japanese and American citizens would be in immediate danger.

President Trump believes the problem should have been solved years ago. Its not due to a lack of effort. He wants China to handle it, but Beijing fears a unified democratic Korea more than a nuclear North Korea.

On his way back to Washington, Pence suggested a new openness to negotiations with Pyongyang, a step the president seemed to reject just weeks ago. South Korea will try to jump start that process after the Olympics, but a substantive breakthrough is unlikely. North Korea long ago perfected the art of talks about talks while preserving its nuclear options.

The bottom line: Kims odious regime may implode some day, but not anytime soon, and theres little prospect Rocket Man will give up his nukes and missiles to someone he considers a deranged dotard. For now, deterrence is the only realistic answer.

P.J. Crowley is a former Assistant Secretary of State and author of "Red Line: American Foreign Policy in a Time of Fractured Politics and Failing States."President Serzh Sarkisians preferred successor insisted on Monday that Armenias next president will have broad powers despite the countrys impending transition to a parliamentary system of government.

The transition will make the Armenian prime minister the most powerful state official with wide-ranging executive powers, including those of commander-in-chief. A number of new bills drafted by the Armenian government in recent weeks will only underline the ceremonial functions of the next president of the republic to be elected by the National Assembly early next month. They have drawn strong criticism from opposition groups that accuse Sarkisian of further curtailing presidential powers to maintain a tight grip on power for five more years.

Armen Sarkissian (no relation), a former prime minister nominated by the ruling Republican Party for the presidency, again dismissed a widely held view that the next head of state will largely be a figurehead.

I am closely monitoring those processes, Sarkissian said in reference to ongoing parliamentary debates on the controversial bills. But whether or not I become president, I view the future presidents activities in a broader sense because you can run [a country] by governing or by leading. You obviously need levers in order to govern, but you can lead with ideas, programs, a vision and so on.

The president of the republic can have not only all these things but they also have a very broad scope of powers under the current constitution, he told reporters.

Under the controversially amended constitution, the next president will be primarily tasked with ensuring observance of the constitution by various branches of government. In particular, he or she will be able to send parliament-approved bills to the Constitutional Court for examination in case of objecting to their provisions. The bills will have to be signed into law if the court certifies their conformity with the basic law.

The president will also be empowered to appoint members of the government, Armenian ambassadors abroad and the Armenian armys top brass. But all of those officials will be nominated by the prime minister. In addition, he or she can sign international treaties recommended by the ruling cabinet.

The outgoing president formally offered Armen Sarkissian to be the ruling partys presidential candidate late last month. The latter said he will decide whether to accept the nomination after holding consultations with Armenian political parties and other groups.

Sarkissian, who has been Armenias ambassador to Britain since 2013, said on Monday that he will announce the decision at his next meeting with Serzh Sarkisian. He gave no date for that meeting.

The ex-premier met on Saturday with lawmakers representing businessman Gagik Tsarukians alliance, the second largest parliamentary force which is officially in opposition to the government. He is due to hold separate talks with Tsarukian this week.

According to Gevorg Petrosian, a Tsarukian Bloc parliamentarian, the bloc will then decide whether to back his candidacy. Commenting on the weekend meeting, Petrosian said the nominee pledged to strive for major changes in the country in case of agreeing to become president.

Sarkissian also met with senior members of the Armenian National Congress (HAK), another opposition force led by former President Levon Ter-Petrosian. The latter did not take part in the discussion.

In a statement, the HAK said its representatives discussed with Sarkissian the rigged parliamentary elections of April 2017 and constitutional referendum held in December 2015. It said they warned him that his presidential run would serve to legitimize the alleged fraud.

Sarkissian, 64, said on Monday that he disagrees with the HAK on many issues. There are also issues on which we seem to have the same views and I think that those relations will continue, he told reporters.

Incidentally, it was Ter-Petrosian who appointed Sarkissian as prime minister in 1996. The former Cambridge University scholar resigned four months later, ostensibly because of a serious illness.Azerbaijan is still not committed to a compromise solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, President Serzh Sarkisian said on Monday.

In that regard, he dismissed suggestions that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyevs decision to call a snap presidential election in April is aimed at speeding up the Karabakh peace process.

I dont think that all of a sudden there arose in Azerbaijan an unbridled desire to solve the Karabakh problem, Sarkisian said after talks with his visiting Bulgarian counterpart Rumen Radev. In the past Azerbaijan has had numerous opportunities to achieve a peaceful settlement of the conflict but unfortunately its actions have been such that we can now talk of only lost opportunities.

Whether or not three will be presidential or parliamentary elections in Azerbaijan, whether they are pre-term or regular, the Karabakh conflict could be resolved only if Azerbaijan abandons its maximalist and unrealistic expectations from negotiations, he told a joint news conference. As long as they dont give that up, remain in a daydream and continue to rave about seizing Yerevan and Zangezur, we cannot harbor serious hopes that the problem could be solved.

He referred to Aliyevs renewed claims last week that Yerevan and other parts of Armenia are historic Azerbaijani lands where Azerbaijani presence should be restored. That, he said, is a strategic goal of his regime. Also, Aliyev again ruled out any peace accord that would fall short of restoring Azerbaijani control over Karabakh.

Aliyev and other Azerbaijani leaders regularly say that Armenia is keen to cement the status quo in the Karabakh dispute. Yerevan denies that, saying that peace proposals made by the United States, Russia and France are largely acceptable to the Armenian side.

The Armenian and Azerbaijani presidents pledged to intensify the Karabakh peace process at their most recent meeting held in Geneva in October. Their foreign ministers held follow-up meetings in December and January. The U.S., Russian and French co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group said on Sunday that both sides have expressed readiness to continue their intensive negotiations.By Trend

Over the past 24 hours, Armenias armed forces have 135 times violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said on February 12.

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.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Kamila Aliyeva

Azerbaijan's GDP could grow by 1.5 percent in 2018, Moodys Investors Service said in its report on February 12.

The rebound in oil prices since early 2017 has contributed to stabilization in Azerbaijan's economy, according to the report of the leading global provider of credit ratings, research, and risk analysis.

We expect the economy to return to growth in 2018, expanding 1.5 percent after 0.1 percent growth in 2017 (based on preliminary estimates) and a 3.1 percent contraction in 2016. We also expect the fiscal balance to return to a surplus of 1.0 percent of GDP this year, Moodys analysts believe.

Moodys highlighted that oil- and gas-related activities account for around 40 percent of GDP and 60 percent of fiscal revenue.

Most of Azerbaijan's gas production will be consumed domestically until the Trans-Anatolian (TANAP) and Trans-Adriatic (TAP) pipelines are fully operational and can transport gas to new export markets in the European Union, the report noted.

Higher oil prices, currently around $65-$70 per barrel, will therefore boost economic growth and fiscal revenue, the report said.

While positive, the boost from higher oil prices will be constrained by certain factors including Azerbaijans commitment to OPEC deal on oil production cuts, Moodys analysts believe.

The size of Azerbaijans sovereign wealth fund remains big enough to cover all of the government debts and guarantees, according to the report.

Moodys assesses Azerbaijan's fiscal strength as high.

Support to fiscal strength stems from the size of SOFAZ  the sovereign wealth fund  which provides, in principle, a substantial financial buffer in the event of a new shock, such as a renewed downturn in oil prices, according to the report.

The size of Azerbaijans sovereign wealth fund remains large at around 90 percent of GDP, and big enough to cover all of the government's debt and guarantees.

Given that all of the assets held by SOFAZ are invested in foreign markets, this provides an effective and substantial financial buffer to mitigate the impact of a future economic shock on Azerbaijans fiscal strength, the report said.

Progress on tourism and transport and logistics appear to be most advanced, according to Moodys.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Rashid Shirinov

Over 4.34 million items with a total weight of over 374,000 kilograms were processed in 2017 in the transit center of Azerpost LLC, Azerbaijans postal operator, and shipped to 17 countries, the company informed on February 9.

More than 527,000 of the total number of processed items were registered, while over 3.81 million accounted for small packages.

Azerpost delivered them to the U.S., Germany, Austria, Belarus, the UK, Czech Republic, France, India, Iran, Israel, Italy, Spain, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Russia, Turkey and Ukraine.

The items were ordered on e-trading platforms of China. Azerpost is engaged in their processing and sending to other countries. To this end, the postal operator cooperates with Silk Way company, which has great capability in the field of air transportation.

Azerpost, the national post operator, was established in 1999 and received the status of national postal operator in 2004. The company mostly implements such important functions like offering quality and affordable postal and financial services, delivery of mail and goods and their transit to other countries, and other services with the aim of supporting daily activities of the population.

Meanwhile, local e-trading platform Azexport is negotiating with Azerpost to reduce the delivery cost of goods purchased through the platform.

Head of the Azexport portal Zaur Gardashov told Trend that the services offered by the postal operator for items delivery play an important role in the activity of Azexport.

Since the beginning of our activity, we have been regularly meeting with Azerpost. Currently, the subject of discussions is the issue of reducing the delivery time of goods ordered through the portal and reducing the delivery cost for Azerbaijani exporters," Gardashov said, adding that proposals on these issues have already been submitted to Azerpost.

Azexport portal was created in 2016 with the main objective of ensuring the promotion and sale of goods and services on domestic and international markets by posting information about them.

Previously, Azexport offered Azerpost to create independent distribution centers that would perform warehousing functions in the logistics system. Distribution centers might store a certain number of small-sized goods that are in a great demand.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Sara Israfilbayova

The State Committee on Property Issues of Azerbaijan will hold next auction on privatization of state property on March 13, where 90 state objects will be put up for sale.

The auction will offer 18 joint-stock companies, 29-small state enterprises, 40-non-residential areas and three vehicles.

Some of the properties will be put up for auction together with land plot. These properties are mainly located in Baku, Sumgayit, Balakan, Gabala, Shamkir, Goranboy and other cities and regions of the country.

Information about the auction is posted on the official website of the Committee, on the website privatization.az and on the facebook page.

In order to protect state property and effectively manage it in the new economic realities, President of Azerbaijan signed a decree on May 19, 2016.

Under the decree, the acceleration of the state property privatization process has been defined as an important direction of the economic policy.

The portal for privatization  privatization.az, launched in July 2016, reflects all necessary information about the facilities, their addresses, location, and even initial cost and aims at facilitation of the process. The website is available in two languages - Azerbaijani and English. Why Azerbaijan is special section available on the website explains the reasons and advantages of investing in the country.

The privatization process is designed to attract both foreign and local investors, as well as develop the business environment of Azerbaijan.

The State Committee has started to hold electronic auction from July 4.

The electronic auction service, which is available on the website privatization.az, combines the privatization procedure of vehicles and equipment. In the future, it will be possible to privatize small state enterprises and facilities, joint-stock companies through electronic auction. Now, the corresponding work in programming is being implemented.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Rashid Shirinov

The OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs have called on the sides to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to take additional steps to reduce tensions on the frontline.

They made the remarks in the OSCE Minsk Group's statement issued on February 11, after the co-chairs' visit to the region.

The co-chairs - Igor Popov of Russia, Stephane Visconti of France and Andrew Schofer of the U.S., together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, met with President Ilham Aliyev in Baku on February 7 and President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan on February 9.

In both capitals, they also held consultations with the respective Foreign Ministers. The co-chairs also travelled to Nagorno-Karabakh on February 9-11 and visited specific locations in the Zangilan, Gubadli, Agdam, Lachin, and Kalbajar regions.

"The co-chairs underscored the importance of fulfilling, in good faith, all commitments undertaken during the October 2017 Summit in Geneva and at previous summits, in particular, Vienna and St. Petersburg," reads the statement.

The diplomats also expressed deep concern over the recent loss of life on the contact line. They called upon the sides to take additional steps to reduce tensions, as agreed in Geneva, and to respect the ceasefire, as well as to refrain from inflammatory statements and provocative actions.

"The co-chairs reiterate their commitment to helping the sides find a peaceful solution to the conflict based on the core principles of the Helsinki Act, including the non-use of force, territorial integrity, and the equal rights and self-determination of peoples," reads the statement.

In conclusion, the co-chairs welcomed the parties' expressed intention to continue intensive negotiations, taking into account the current electoral period.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict 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 regions. More than 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed and over 1 million were displaced as a result of the large-scale hostilities. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations.

The Minsk Group spearheads the OSCE's efforts to find a peaceful solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Although the MG deals with the issue for over two decades, its activities have brought no breakthrough results so far. Until now, Armenia controls fifth part of Azerbaijans territory and rejects implementing four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding regions.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Rashid Shirinov

A piece of ordnance was discovered in the Alasgarli village of Tartar region, Azerbaijans National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) told Trend on February 12.

After the Agency was informed about the ordnance found in the territory of the village, a special mobile group immediately went to the site of detection.

ANAMA experts inspected the household plot, detected the explosive device QDT-90 and transferred it to the special territory of the Agency for neutralization.

The Agency also inspected the adjacent territory of 800 square meters, but no other dangerous items or devices were found.

ANAMA was established in 1998 for planning and coordination, management and monitoring of mine action related activities all over the country. The problem of unexploded ordnance in Azerbaijan can be divided into the areas that are still under the occupation of Armenian forces and other areas of the country. Most of the unexploded ordnances are the result of Armenian aggression.

Over the past year, ANAMA defused up to 93 million square meters of the Azerbaijan's territory, detecting and defusing 35,117 unexploded ordnance (UXOs), 204 anti-tank mines and 35 anti-personnel mines.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Kamila Aliyeva

Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR will continue to diversify its business portfolio and make new investments in Turkey in the future, the company told Azernews.

SOCAR has invested in several countries, as well as in Turkey during the last decade in order to optimize its revenues and create added value for Azerbaijans economy, the company noted.

"The modernization and reconstruction of Petkim Petrochemical Complex and the construction of Petlim container port have already been completed successfully and we are happy to announce that two of our strategically important projects in Turkey, namely the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) and Star Oil Refinery will be commissioned this year," SOCAR said.

All of these projects are a part of SOCAR's vertical integration strategy, according to the company.

"We will also continue to diversify our business portfolio and make new investments in the future in order to boost economic development of Azerbaijan," the company said.

Founded in 2008, SOCAR Turkey Energy is one of the most well-established oil and natural gas companies of the world.

SOCAR Energy Turkey keeps empowering Turkish industry with its significant investments, thus assisting Turkey in becoming a major player in international energy platforms.

SOCAR is the biggest foreign investor of Turkey with its total investment to reach $19.5 billion by 2020.

At the same time, SOCARs group companies in Turkey, namely Petkim, STAR Refinery, Petlim Container Terminal and Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) represent the largest-scale investment that Azerbaijan has ever made to a single country.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Sara Israfilbayova

Oil prices are jumping on Monday after a strong Friday decline due to recovery in the stock markets.

Brent crude futures were at $63.54 per barrel, up 1.2 percent, from the previous close, U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $60.04 a barrel. That was up 84 cents, or 1.4 percent, from their last settlement, Reuters reported.

The stronger prices came after crude registered its biggest loss in two years last week as global stock markets slumped.

The bounce in U.S. stocks means some catch-up is possible (for oil), said Greg McKenna, chief market strategist at futures brokerage AxiTrader.

Data of Baker Hughes, released on February 9, pointed to the maximum since January last year, an increase in the number of operating oil rigs in the U.S. over the past week, which raised concerns about the growth in production in the country.

The number of such installations has increased for the third week in a row - by 26 units, to 791 installations, Baker Hughes reported.

This is preparing the ground for increasing oil production in the U.S. this year by more than 1 million barrels per day, but this requires that oil prices remain above $50 per barrel, quotes MarketWatch analyst WTRG Economics James Williams.

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA) of the U.S. Energy Department, published last week, U.S. oil production this year will average 10.59 million barrels per day.

OPEC and non-OPEC producers reached an agreement in December 2016 to curtail oil output jointly and ease a global glut after more than two years of low prices. OPEC agreed to slash the output by 1.2 million barrels per day from January 1.

Non-OPEC oil producers such as Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Equatorial Guinea, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, Sudan, and South Sudan agreed to reduce output by 558,000 barrels per day starting from January 1, 2017.

OPEC and its partners decided to extend its production cuts till the end of 2018 in Vienna on November 30, as the oil cartel and its allies step up their attempt to end a three-year supply glut that has savaged crude prices and the global energy industry.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Kamila Aliyeva

Natural gas production in Uzbekistan increased by 7.1 percent in January 2018 up to 5.09 billion cubic meters compared to the same period in 2017, according to the Uzbek State Statistics Committee.

The extraction of natural gas stood at the level of 4.75 billion in January 2017.

At the same time, the Central Asian country reduced oil production by 8.2 percent to 63,300 tons in January 2018 compared to 69,000 tons in January last year.

In January 2018, Uzbekistan also produced 193,900 tons of gas condensate compared to 152,200 tons in January 2017, thus showing an increase of 27.4 percent.

The output of diesel fuel went down by 21.9 percent in the reporting period and amounted to 71,500 tons.

At the same time, Uzbekistan increased production of motor gasoline up to 105,000 tons in January 2018. This represents an increase of 15.4 percent compared to the same period in 2017.

Natural gas production in Uzbekistan amounted to 56.417 billion cubic meters in 2017. Meanwhile, the country reduced oil production by 6.3 percent to 806,000 tons in 2017.

Over the past few years, Uzbekistan has been systematically facing an acute shortage of gasoline and some other petroleum products.

In Uzbekistan in 2010-2016, gasoline production decreased by 26.2 percent, diesel fuel - by 8.3 percent, while imports of hydrocarbons increased 1.3 times.

The total capacity of the three refineries currently reaches about 10 million tons, but due to a significant reduction in the reserves of raw materials in the country's active fields, the volumes of extraction of black gold and gas condensate are steadily declining.

The loading of the production capacities of the republican refineries reaches, in total, only 60 percent. To ensure their full supply from this year, the Uzbek authorities intend to import oil from Kazakhstan and Russia - up to 1 million tons in total.

On November 20, Kazakh company Kaztransoil began shipping Russian oil to Uzbekistan. Oil is pumped via the KazTransOil pipeline system en route Omsk-Pavlodar-Shymkent- Shagyr oil loading point, from where it is poured into railway tanks and then transported by rail to Uzbekistan.

In late April 2017, Uzbekistan started construction of a new refinery in Zafarobod district of the countrys Jizzakh region, which is expected to operate using the crude imported from Kazakhstan and Russia.

The refinery has design capacity of processing of five million tons of oil per year, production of 3.7 million tons of car fuel, over 700,000 tons of aviation fuel and 300,000 tons of associated oil products.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Kamila Aliyeva

The passenger car production in Uzbekistan amounted to 12,170 units in January 2018 thus showing an increase of 60.6 percent compared to the same period in 2017, according to the Uzbek State Statistics Committee.

In January, the output of trucks was 177 units, which is 36.1 percent lower compared to January 2017.

Production of buses in Uzbekistan in January 2018 amounted to 40 units and registered a decrease of 2.5 percent compared to January 2017.

Meanwhile, Uzbek enterprises increased the output of automobile engines up to 9,220 (by 58.2 percent) in the reporting period.

Car industry occupies one of the leading places in the economy of Uzbekistan. A significant number of the country's population is employed in this sector of industry.

The vast majority of automotive enterprises in Uzbekistan are joint ventures with foreign partners. This shows that the country is successfully working to create a favorable investment climate.

The main production companies are GM Uzbekistan, SamAvto, JV MAN Auto-Uzbekistan and GM Powertrain Uzbekistan.

The automotive industry has undergone significant reform last year. Simplification of the procedure for buying cars is intended to increase the demand for them, and the expansion of export opportunities will make this Uzbek brand even more popular abroad.

Since 1998 Uzbekistan has been a member of the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA).

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Kamila Aliyeva

Kazakhstan exported non-primary products for more than $14 billion in 2017.

The share of non-raw materials in the export structure is growing, new commodity positions are emerging. It should also be noted that we are supplying non-raw products to virtually all markets, Kazakh Vice Minister of National Economy Baurzhan Bekeshev said.

The total volume of exports increased by 31.6 percent and amounted to $43.1 billion dollars, according to the official.

The share of non-primary goods has significantly increased. Growth on this indicator has reached more than 22 percent. Kazakhstan exported non-primary products for more than $14 billion, he said.

The vice-minister called changes in the structure of the Kazakh economy, external factors and the current foreign trade policy as a catalyst for such dynamics.

In order to develop export potential, the National Export Strategy was adopted last year, the main potential markets were defined, and a promising export basket was identified. This document has systematized all the instruments available to Kazakhstan for supporting and promoting exports, he said.

In 2016, Kazakhstan exported $36.8 billion and imported $25.1 billion, resulting in a positive trade balance of $11.6 billion.

Kazakhstan is the 51st largest export economy in the world and the 48th most complex economy according to the Economic Complexity Index (ECI).

The country has an export-oriented economy which is highly dependent on shipments of oil and related products (73 percent of total exports). Other exports include ferrous metals, copper, aluminum, zinc and uranium.

Kazakhstan became a World Trade Organization (WTO) member on November 30, 2015.

The country officially entered into a Customs Union with Russia and Belarus on July 1, 2010. Since that time, Kazakhstans trade policy has been heavily influenced by regulations promulgated by the Customs Union and its governing body the Eurasian Economic Commission.

As a condition of membership in the Customs Union, Kazakhstan had to double its average import tariff and introduced annual tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) on trade apoultry, beef, and pork.

However, in accordance with its WTO commitments, Kazakhstan will now gradually lower 3,512 import tariff rates to an average of 6.1 percent by 2020. Starting from January 2016, Kazakhstan has applied a lower-than-Customs Union Tariff rate to food products, automobiles, airplanes, railway wagons, lumber, alcoholic beverages, pharmaceuticals, freezers, and jewelry.

On May 29, 2014 Kazakhstan and its Customs Union partners signed a treaty to create a common economic space known as the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The EAEU is expected to further integrate their economies, and provide for the free movement of services, capital and labor within their common territory. The government of Kazakhstan has asserted that EAEU agreements comply with WTO standards.

Kazakhstans government is optimistic that further integration within the EAEU will make Kazakhstan more attractive for foreign investment by expanding market access to those countries.

Kazakhstan is a signatory of the Free Trade Agreement with CIS countries. In addition, as a member of the EAEU, Kazakhstan is party to the Free Trade Agreement between the EAEU and Vietnam.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Kamila Aliyeva

Thirteen new cotton-textile production enterprises will start working in Uzbekistan in autumn 2018.

The procurement process at new production facilities will be organized in such a way that contracts will be concluded directly with dehkan farms and landowners.

Until now the mechanism for purchasing raw materials from the first-hand was not available.

The price for raw cotton will be established on a contractual basis grounded on the costs of the producer, but they cannot be lower than the state wholesale price, according to the Uzbek Ministry of Finance.

These enterprises will promote efficient and rational use of land, water and other resources, increase in yields and timely harvesting of raw cotton, and also ensure its further in-depth processing and production of products with high added value.

New companies will receive a number of benefits and preferences. Among them are preferential crediting, exemption from payment of customs payments until January 1, 2020, exemption from payment of profit tax and property tax, single tax payment for microfirms and small businesses, payment of mandatory contributions to the Republican Road Fund, deferment of customs payments during the import operation.

The decision on measures to introduce modern forms of organization of cotton and textile production was signed by the cabinet in January this year. The document defines the areas where new cotton and textile industries will be opened. In total, 140,900 hectares of land are allocated for this project.

Currently, Uzbekistan is the worlds sixth-largest cotton producer among 90 cotton-growing countries. It produces about 1.1 million tons of cotton fiber annually, which accounts for about 6 percent of global cotton production. The country exports cotton mainly to China, Bangladesh, Korea and Russia.

One of the policy priorities of Uzbekistan is further development of its textile industry. Uzbekistan takes consistent steps to increase the volume of cotton fiber processing.

In the period 2010-2014, the textile industry of Uzbekistan received and spent foreign investments worth $785 million while 147 new textile enterprises with participation of investors from Germany, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, the U.S., Turkey and other countries were commissioned. Export potential of these enterprises amounted to $670 millions.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Sara Israfilbayova

New direct flights from Ufa (Russia) to Baku, which will be carried out by the airline Saratov Airlines to be launched starting from March 29.

Flights from Ufa to Baku and back will be carried out on Thursdays, on an AN-148 aircraft. Departure from the international airport of Ufa - at 21:55, arrival at the airport named after Heydar Aliyev - on Friday at 00:15 local time, travel time - 3 hours 20 minutes. Return flights will be carried out at 05:40 with arrival in Ufa at 10:00.

The minimum price of a round-trip ticket is approximately 600 manats ($352) for a promotional tariff.

The number of air companies intending to launch direct flights to Azerbaijan has been gradually increasing.

Starting from March 2, direct flights of Etihad Airways of United Arab Emirates in the direction of Abu Dhabi-Baku will be carried out.

In addition, the Kuwait-based Jazeera Airways has launched new direct flights to Eurasia, starting with Baku, Azerbaijan as the first destination.

The company started flights to Baku on June 23. Jazeera Airways provides a frequency of two weekly flights scheduled on Mondays and Fridays to the city, hailed as a popular destination for summer vacationers.

Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL) is currently considering the possibility of launching flights to the Egyptian resort city of Sharm El Sheikh.

Moreover, Azerbaijan also offers Croatia to launch direct flights for development of tourism.

Russia is one of the largest importers of Azerbaijani agro-products. Azerbaijan in recent years has increased the export of fruits and vegetables to the southern neighbour. Even in winter Azerbaijan exports tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and eggplants grown in greenhouses to Russia.

Azerbaijan is one of the main economic partners of Russia among the CIS countries. Interregional cooperation plays an important role in the development of Russian-Azerbaijani trade and economic relations and the increase in trade turnover.

The trade turnover with Russia amounted to $951.32 million in January-June 2017, according to Azerbaijans State Customs Committee.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzHere are seven things ASC leaders should know for Feb. 12, 2018.

Vermont bill could levy 6% provider tax on ASCs, threatening its 2nd center

A state representative in Vermont introduced a bill to regulate ASCs eight months after the state granted its second certificate of need to a surgery center. The bill would place several additional expenses on ASCs, including a $2,000 annual licensing fee and 6 percent provider tax that would be based on net patient revenue. The bill also outlines a plan for ASCs to cover 5 percent of the cost for the Green Mountain Care Board to analyze their expenditures and review budgets, and cover 7.5 percent of regulatory expenses from the Office of the Health Care Advocate.

The Joint Commission cracks down on improper hand hygiene

The Joint Commission will now issue citations to ambulatory care organizations whose employees violate hand hygiene guidelines before providing direct patient care. The Joint Commission has required healthcare organizations to maintain hand hygiene programs for a decade.

East Freedom Surgical Associates receives $350k loan to purchase equipment for new surgery center

Duncansville, Pa.-based East Freedom Surgical Associates received a $350,000, five-year loan to purchase equipment for a new ASC also in Duncansville. Stephen Yanoshak, MD, is constructing the new ASC, and it's expected to open in late summer.

Regent Surgical Health, St. Francis Hospital open surgery center for complex cases

Roslyn, N.Y.-based St. Francis Hospital of Catholic Health Services of Long Island partnered with Regent Surgical Health to open the East Hills (N.Y.) Surgery Center. The multispecialty ASC facility is designed to treat complex cases such as total joint replacement and spine disorders.

Kaiser Permanente condensing Redwood City outpatient, administrative services into new facility

Kaiser Permanente in Redwood City, Calif., received approval to condense four outpatient and three administrative facilities into a four-story, 197,800-square-foot building on its Redwood City campus. The building will feature specialty care clinics, conference rooms, an outpatient surgery floor as well as physician offices.

Skyway Surgery Center adds laser cataract surgery, 2 eye surgeons

Chico, Calif.-based Skyway Surgery Center welcomed two eye surgeons, who will bring laser cataract surgery to the center.

How CON status affects total knee replacement volume

A new study published in the Journal of Arthroplasty examines how certificate of need programs affect total knee replacement volume. Find out more.

https://www.beckersasc.com/orthopedics-tjr/how-con-status-affects-total-knee-replacement-volume-6-things-to-know.htmlHere are the five most popular gastroenterology and endoscopy stories for the week of Feb. 5 to Feb. 9, 2018.

1. 14 statistics on GI physician salary, compensation

Click here

2. 20 years on the books  Physicians Endoscopy celebrates 20th anniversary

Click here

3. Staying independent  Dr. Louis Wilson's 2 key thoughts on surviving and thriving in 2018

Click here

4. The 4 things AGA President Dr. Sheila Crowe lobbied for on Capitol Hill

Click here

5. Mount Sinai Health System opens new Florida medical practice  4 insights

Click hereBishr Omary, MD, PhD, is joining the American Gastroenterological Association Institute's board as its vice president, effective in June 2018.

Dr. Omary will serve as the board president in 2020-2021.

Here are six things to know about Dr. Omary:

1. Dr. Omary specializes in GI biology and physiology.

2. Throughout his career, he has made several scientific contributions, most notably in the liver and pancreas biology and disease perspectives fields.

3. After earning a PhD from UC San Diego, he earned a medical degree from the University of Miami. Dr. Omary then completed a residency at UC Irvine before returning to UC San Diego for his fellowship.

4. He spent 19 years at Stanford (Calif.) University, serving as chief of the gastroenterology and hepatology division, before he transitioned to Ann Arbor-based University of Michigan to oversee its molecular and integrative physiology department.

5. Dr. Omary is a past Gastroenterology editor-in-chief.

6. He has served on several AGA committees, including education and training, nominating, research policy and publications.Little Rock-based Arkansas Heart Hospital is working to improve its menu options and make the facility a destination for a certain Japanese cuisine item, CBS News reports.

Arkansas Heart Hospital Chef Coby Smith has worked to improve the facility's kitchen after CEO Bruce Murphy, MD, said the food served at the hospital was too institutional.

Officials sought to change the quality of the food by incorporating fresh ingredients and ramen noodles  a personal request by Dr. Murphy.

"I was being a little bit selfish because I love ramen noodles and I figured everybody else would love ramen noodles," Dr. Murphy said.

Dr. Murphy told CBS News he discovered his love for the dish after a trip to Asia, and encouraged Mr. Smith to travel to Tokyo to learn how to prepare authentic ramen.

Upon returning, Mr. Smith reportedly spent eight months attempting to turn his research into "authentic" ramen, incorporating ingredients native to the Southern U.S. While his dishes may not be prepared exactly as they are in Japan, they are a hit among hospital patients and visitors, with employees from neighboring hospitals occasionally coming to Arkansas Heart Hospital for lunch.

"It's been so successful that I can't get ... ramen [in the hospital] because there are other people in line," Dr. Murphy said.Twelve of the 17 regional leprosy treatment clinics in the U.S. will close this year as a result of a $3.5 million budget cut to the Health Resources and Services Administration, which oversees the nationwide treatment program, reports AZ Central.

Leprosy, now referred to as Hansen's Disease, is a chronic illness caused by a bacterial infection. While it is easy to cure with a course of antibiotics, those who don't receive timely intervention can suffer from chronic foot wounds, disfigured or paralyzed hands and feet and blindness. About half of the 6,500 reported cases in the U.S. require active medical care.

Prior to 1981, people suffering from Hansen's Disease would be sent to the National Leprosarium, now called the Gillis W. Long Hansen's Disease Center, in Louisiana. In 1981, thanks to medical advancements, HRSA established a network of outpatient clinics around the country to improve access to care for people with the disease.

However, as a result of the federal budget cuts, just five of the 17 Hansen Disease regional clinics in the U.S. will remain open. Patients will still be able to receive regional care at clinics in California, Florida, New York, Texas and Puerto Rico. The program's main clinic in Baton Rouge, La., will also remain open.

The federal Hansen's Disease Program "has decided to reduce the number of ambulatory care clinics to align resources with levels of care that patients receive," said Martin Kramer, HRSA's director of communications, according to the report.

Mr. Kramer said program will still provide training, education, outreach and free medication to physicians who treat Hansen's Disease. In addition, because of the closures, patients with any severe complications will be transferred to their main clinic "free of charge."

Ken Saffier, MD, who oversaw the recently shuttered Martinez (Calif.) Hansen's Disease clinic, has raised concerns over the closures.

"We're concerned patients will not get care," Dr. Saffier told AZ Central, adding that leprosy patients whose care is delayed can develop irreversible nerve damage. "We are uncomfortable with the idea there will be a gap in care  or no care."The Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure hired Kenneth Cleveland, MD, as its new executive director roughly nine months after unexpectedly firing its previous director. Dr. Cleveland has been sued roughly 12 times by patients claiming he committed various offenses during an 11-year period, including medical malpractice and negligence, according to the Clarion Ledger.

Here are six things to know about Dr. Cleveland.

1. The lawsuits against Dr. Cleveland were filed between 2002 and 2013. Several of those complaints were settled, while others were dismissed, according to the report. During that time, Dr. Cleveland maintained privileges at Baptist Medical Center and Central Mississippi Medical Center, both in Jackson, Miss., according to the report.

2. Dr. Cleveland told the Clarion Ledger through an attorney he resigned his admitting privileges at Baptist Medical Center and Central Mississippi Medical Center after practicing at both institutions for nearly 10 years. He said he resigned his privileges at the recommendation of his physician at the time after periodically experiencing back problems resulting in numbness in his extremities and which made standing for long periods of time difficult. He now serves as a practicing physician and CEO of Ridgeland, Miss.-based Remedy True Health.

3. Dr. Cleveland underwent a peer evaluation during his time as a hospital physician after a hospital staff member reportedly criticized his skills. The hospital never took disciplinary action against him, Dr. Cleveland told the Clarion Ledger through an attorney.

4. Dr. Cleveland's certification from the American Board of Surgery expired in 2014.

5. MSBML President Charles D. Miles, MD, told the publication the Mississippi licensing board has never disciplined Dr. Cleveland, nor has it ever received reports of a hospital disciplining him. He said he and his colleagues considered the lawsuits filed against Dr. Cleveland during their decision-making process.

"Just because you have a lawsuit filed against you doesn't mean you've done anything wrong," said Dr. Miles. "I can assure you I can get an attorney to file suit because you wore the wrong color shoes if he thought he could make some money."

6. Dr. Cleveland's appointment comes months after the board fired its former executive director, John Hall, MD, last May without reason, according to the report. Dr. Hall told the Clarion Ledger he believes he was fired for his approach to disciplining physicians.

To access the full report, click here.The following healthcare mergers, acquisitions, partnerships and general transactions took place or were announced during the week of Feb. 5.

1. California physician-hospital group adds Good Samaritan Health, select Dignity Health facilities

Emeryville, Calif.-based Canopy Health, a physician- and hospital-owned medical enterprise, added Good Samaritan Health System, a two-hospital system in San Jose, Calif., to its expanding network, officials announced Feb. 8.

2. RCCH HealthCare Partners, UW Medicine partner to operate hospitals in 3 states

Brentwood, Tenn.-based RCCH HealthCare Partners and Seattle-based UW Medicine will form a public-private partnership to own and operate community hospitals in Washington, Alaska and Idaho, the health systems announced Feb. 8.

3. Northwell Health, Western Connecticut Health Network ink collaboration agreement

New Hyde Park, N.Y.-based Northwell Health and Danbury-based Western Connecticut Health Network announced an agreement Thursday to explore possible clinical partnerships and population health services while also allowing WHCN patients access to Northwell facilities.

4. Florida hospital extends management agreement with Tallahassee Memorial for six months

Franklin County (Fla.) commissioners approved a proposal Tuesday to extend Tallahassee (Fla.) Memorial HealthCare's management agreement with Apalachicola, Fla.-based Weems Memorial Hospital for an additional six months.

5. Following name change, Atrium Health reveals plans to merge with Navicent Health

Charlotte, N.C.-based Atrium Health, formerly Carolinas HealthCare System, signed a letter of intent to merge with Macon, Ga.-based Navicent Health Feb. 8.

6. Marshfield Clinic Health System to integrate Wisconsin hospital: 3 things to know

Marshfield (Wis.) Clinic Health System finalized the terms of its agreement to integrate Ladysmith, Wis.-based Rusk County Memorial Hospital Feb. 6.

7. UPMC, Highmark Health dissolve Pennsylvania cancer center joint venture

Pittsburgh-based UPMC and Highmark Health, also in Pittsburgh, are ending their joint venture to operate Erie, Pa.-based The Regional Cancer Center.

8. Bellin Health plan to acquire Michigan hospital still in place despite speculation

Iron Mountain, Mich.-based Dickinson County Healthcare System officials said the organization's letter of intent to purchase Green Bay, Wis.-based Bellin Health Systems is still in place and discussions between the two entities are ongoing.

9. Fremont Health selects Nebraska Methodist to continue partnership discussions

Fremont (Neb.) Health will pursue partnership with Nebraska Methodist Health System, a three-hospital system in Omaha.

10. Wake Forest Baptist forms joint venture to take over North Carolina hospital

Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center created a joint venture Feb. 2 to take over Sparta, N.C.-based Alleghany Memorial Hospital.

11. UCSF Health inches closer to finalizing affiliation with Sonoma Valley Hospital: 4 things to know

The Sonoma (Calif.) Valley Health Care District board reviewed and approved "in principle" the proposed affiliation agreement between Sonoma (Calif.) Valley Hospital and San Francisco-based UCSF Health Feb. 1.

12. UCHealth to integrate Pikes Peak Regional this spring

Aurora, Colo.-based UCHealth signed an agreement Feb. 1 to integrate Pikes Peak Regional Hospital, a 15-bed facility in Woodland Park, Colo., into the system.Hospital workers will join Detroit fast-food employees Monday as they protest for a $15 per hour wage and union rights, according to a Detroit Free Press report.

The Detroit workers are among numerous fast-food employees slated to protest across the nation's Mid-South region Monday. The protests will take place on the 50th anniversary of the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike, where workers lobbied for higher pay and better working conditions.

According to news release cited in the report, fast-food workers will be joined by Service Employees International Union Local 1 members, Detroit City Council President Pro Tem Mary Sheffield, hospital workers and other allies. In addition to better pay and union rights, fast-food employees are also supporting the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival movement.

"We're going to send a message to corporations and politicians that their time of rigging the economy against workers is over," the Rev. W.J. Rideout, one of the local protest organizers, said, according to the Detroit Free Press. "We have to stand up and fight back."

In response to the protests, Michigan Restaurant Association President and CEO Justin Winslow said in a statement to the publication: "These protests, well intentioned as they may be, only serve to limit these opportunities for the very people they are claiming to help. We now have strong, unbiased evidence from a University of Washington study in 2017 that Seattle's recent push for a $15 minimum wage unequivocally resulted in disemployment, unemployment and an aggregate loss of payroll for entry-level workers in the city. In other words, while the $15 mandate helped a few people a little bit, it hurt many others by being scheduled for fewer shifts or actual job loss."

Eight states  Alaska, Florida, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, Ohio and South Dakota  have recently implemented increased minimum wages based on the cost of living, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Eleven other states  Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Michigan, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington  increased their minimum wages this year due to previously approved legislation or ballot initiatives.

More articles on human capital and risk:

University of California workers picket for new contract at hospital campuses statewide

Former Detroit Medical Center employee claims firing was retaliation for union activities

Sodexo employees at Tenet hospital in California set to strike ThursdayA shareholder of Louisville, Ky.-based Kindred Healthcare filed a lawsuit to stop a proposed deal between Kindred, Humana and two equity firms, WDRB reports.

Here are five things to know about the deal and the lawsuit.

1. Mazy Sehrgosha filed the lawsuit in Delaware federal court Thursday. The plaintiff seeks class-action status for the lawsuit, which alleges a 300-page document Kindred submitted last week explaining why its board of directors favors the deal presents "incomplete and misleading" information to investors, the report states.

2. The lawsuit also claims the $9-per-share price is "inadequate." A Kindred spokesperson did not immediately respond to WDRB's request for comment.

3. In December 2017, Humana and two private equity firms signed a definitive agreement to acquire Kindred for $4.1 billion in cash including assumption of debt. Shortly after, Brigade Capital Management, a top Kindred shareholder, called the deal "disappointing and grossly inadequate."

4. Last week Kindred filed a proxy statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, urging stockholders to approve the deal.

5. Kindred and its potential acquirers hope the deal will close this year.Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf on Saturday declared Pennsylvania's opioid overdose and addiction crisis a statewide emergency.

The disaster declaration signed by Mr. Wolf will task a command center at the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency with improving coordination between health and public safety agencies working to address the crisis. The declaration will also expand the state's prescription drug monitoring program, increase access to the opioid overdose antidote naloxone and expand access to medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction, among other initiatives.

"While we have made progress in combatting [sic] the heroin and opioid abuse crisis and drastically expanded Pennsylvania's response, we are still losing far too many Pennsylvanians," Mr. Wolf said. "I am taking this step to protect Pennsylvanians from this looming public health crisis, and I am using every tool at my disposal to get those suffering from substance use disorders into treatment, save more lives and improve response coordination."

In 2016, more than 2,200 Pennsylvania residents died of opioid-related overdoses, according to CDC data.

More articles on opioids:

Narcan developers donate 5k doses to Illinois' opioid overdose task force

California physician arrested for sexual misconduct and false imprisonment against patients

New York county sees 112 heroin overdoses in 6 weeksStamford, Conn.-based Purdue Pharmaceuticals cut its sales force by more than half and will no longer send salespeople to physician's offices to promote opioid products, effective Monday.

Here are four things to know.

1. Instead of marketing its opioid products directly to clinicians, Purdue will now guide prescribers to published materials from the CDC and U.S. surgeon general. The company plans to send a letter to physicians Monday notifying them of the change in marketing strategy.

"We have restructured and significantly reduced our commercial operation and will no longer be promoting opioids to prescribers," Purdue said in a statement emailed to Becker's.

2. The drugmaker first informed its employees of job cuts last week, according to a report from Bloomberg Markets. The cuts bring Purdue's sales force down to about 200 employees who will focus on promoting Symproic, a treatment for opioid-induced constipation, and other potential nonopioid therapie

3. The move comes amid a nationwide flurry of lawsuits filed on behalf of local, city and state governments against Purdue and other drug companies for allegedly engaging in deceptive marketing techniques that misrepresented the safety of opioid pain medication.

4. Purdue is widely credited with helping to pioneer modern tactics of drug promotion. The drugmaker's efforts to promote its best-selling drug OxyContin, approved in 1995, included delivering items like OxyContin-branded plush toys, CDs and fishing hats to prescribers. In 2007, the company and three of its executives pleaded guilty to criminal charges related to the misrepresentation of OxyContin's addiction risks. The drugmaker paid out $600 million that year to settle criminal and civil charges related to the drug's misbranding, according to STAT.

More articles on opioids:

Narcan developers donate 5k doses to Illinois' opioid overdose task force

California physician arrested for sexual misconduct and false imprisonment against patients

New York county sees 112 heroin overdoses in 6 weeksThe only neurosurgeon on the island, Maui (Hawaii) Memorial Medical Center's Thomas Rogers, MD, has been unable to treat patients for the past few months due to health concerns, Maui News reports.

Here are five insights:

1. Dr. Rogers operates a private practice on the island. He has been sending patients who need immediate treatment to Queen's Medical Center in Honolulu.

2. For the past 20 years, Dr. Rogers has worked on call 24/7, performing thousands of spinal surgeries and hundreds of brain surgeries. At Maui Memorial Medical Center, Dr. Rogers reviews all head trauma injuries and sees more than 1,000 patients across the state.

3. Kaiser Permanente-affiliated Maui Health System, parent of Maui Memorial Medical Center, is conducting interviews to hire two neurosurgeons. The health system has plans to compensate a neurosurgeon to open a private practice and then affiliate with the hospital in the following years.

4. Many of the neurological cases on Maui Memorial Medical Center are noninvasive. The hospital transfers few patients to Oahu to receive care from neurohospitalists and a community neurologist.

5. While hiring neurosurgeons to join the hospital, Maui Health System is looking to reduce its number of temporary traveler staff from 200 to approximately 80 employees.A New Mexico bankruptcy judge ordered Quorum Health Resources of Tennessee to pay an Alamogordo, N.M.-based Gerald Champion Regional Hospital patient $2.3 million after a failed bone cement spinal procedure, according to the Albuquerque Journal.

Here are six takeaways:

1. The judge awarded another three patients $10 million in damages after finding Quorum Health failed to prevent harm to patients at Alamogordo-based Gerald Champion Regional Hospital from 2007 to 2008.

2. Additional patients are awaiting trial for botched bone cement treatments. Quorum is arguing the pain, numbness, weakness and debilitating systems are due to prior back problems.

3. Investigators discovered Quorum's CEO at Gerald Champion Regional Hospital was warned by outside physicians the bone cement treatments were not safe and that Christian Schlicht, MD, the creator, was not qualified to perform the procedures.

4. While Dr. Schlicht resigned in 2008 following malpractice disputes, physicians at the hospital continued to perform the procedures. Frank Bryant, MD, is the other surgeon who promoted the bone cement treatment.

5. Drs. Schlicht and Bryant built up 80 malpractice claims, forcing the hospital to seek bankruptcy court protection in 2011. A settlement with the physicians the hospital totaled $33 million. However, Quorum has spent the past seven years resisting the settlement cases.

6. The New Mexico judge found the hospital's management firm 16.5 percent at fault due to negligence.Northern Ireland is bucking the UK trend as the pace of growth in the private sector here hits a 40-month high, according to a key survey today.

The Ulster Banks Purchasing Managers Index said NIs growth made it the only positive performing region in the UK.

Increases were recorded across all four monitored sectors, led by retail, according to the report.

And expansion of new business and improving client demand both contributed to improving output.

New orders grew and firms responded to higher workloads by taking on additional staff and while the rate of job creation was slower than it was in December, it was still above the UK average.

Richard Ramsey, chief economist Northern Ireland at the Ulster Bank, said the outside environment was also helping the province, even if it was not reflected in UK growth.

Moving into 2018 the external economic environment has continued to strengthen, he said.

Global output growth hit a 40-month high in January. Meanwhile, firms in the eurozone posted their fastest rate of growth in almost 11-and-a-half years.

This positive backdrop jars with the latest UK PMIs, with the pace of growth decelerating. The overall UK PMI eased to a 17-month low in January.

The figures put NI more in line with global and eurozone businesses, added Mr Ramsey.

He also said the marked acceleration in output was due largely to the construction and services sectors.

Construction activity accelerated to a 39-month high in January, according to the index, its sixth successive month of expansion, while orders accelerated to a 22-month high.

And the services sector growth hit a 44-month high. Retail also grew at its fastest for four years, he said.

Manufacturing was the one sector to report a slowdown in January, though activity was still robust.

He added: According to the PMI, January represented the best start to a year amongst Northern Irelands private sector since 2007. Back then, the challenges that lay ahead were largely unseen and unknown.

In contrast, todays geopolitical risks, fiscal challenges and ongoing Brexit uncertainty have certainly been well flagged. Despite these challenges, firms remain upbeat about the year ahead and the most optimistic since May 2017.DUP MP Ian Paisley has called on Translink to help Wrightbus by placing orders for new vehicles, after the company confirmed it is to reduce staff numbers.

Up to 95 jobs are at risk at the bus manufacturer.

The Ballymena firm, which has more than 1,800 staff in Northern Ireland, announced that it had begun a statutory consultation process regarding a potential workforce reduction at its Northern Ireland facilities.

The company said it is currently experiencing "challenging market conditions".

MP Ian Paisley said he understood the prospects for the company were good, "but order books must match the workforce".

"It is essential that in the future, Government bus contracts start to favour local manufacturers so as to avoid such peaks and troughs in the production cycle."

He added: "What I hope now happens is that local companies like Translink start ordering from local companies like Wrightbus.

"That would help its order book quite considerably and it would help obviously if there was someone there to say we need a new fleet of local buses."

Mark Nodder, chairman of Wrights Group, said the firm was facing some very difficult conditions in its domestic market.

"With current order intake for new vehicles at relatively low levels. In order that the business remains competitive in the long term, it is vital that we promptly take appropriate steps to align our production capacity to projected demand in the foreseeable future.

We have continued to invest in our product range so that it remains best in class in terms of fuel efficiency and environmental performance. The company will therefore be well positioned when market conditions improve."

Mr Nodder said the decision had been taken "with a heavy heart".

As a privately-owned business and one of the largest employers in Northern Ireland, we have not come to this decision lightly and it is done with a heavy heart. However, we operate in dynamic marketplace with competition from around the globe and we must respond and react accordingly. Mark Nodder, chairman of Wrights Group

He added: "We will naturally work with the union and employee representatives to ensure that we manage the process in the most sympathetic way possible for all affected.

Given the sensitivities around this announcement, the company will not be making any further statement until the consultation process is concluded.

The firm is one of Northern Ireland's biggest manufacturers with a turnover of around 260m.

George Brash, regional officer for the Unite Union, said: This news comes out of the blue to our union who had been informed a number of days ago that there were likely to be line changes due a shortage in parts but we didnt expect any job losses."

Todays announcement will be devastating for the workforce, the latest in what has been a series of hammer blows to the Antrim and Ballymena workforce. George Brash, Unite Union

He added: "Wrightbus is one of the last major remaining employers in the area after a spate of site closures over the past two years.

We understand that the job losses are the result of the loss of sales to Transport for London in addition to the protracted delay in new orders coming in from Translink. In the first case, Unite has lobbied directly the Mayor of London's office making the case to support UK workers.

"The fact that the contract for the purchase of London Transport buses has been transferred to China and Egypt is an inexcusable betrayal of Northern Ireland workers and represents a false economy to the UK taxpayer overall."

The consultation period for redundancies will begin on Wednesday, February 21.

Just last week Wrightbus founder William Wright was honoured for his commitment to the local community with the honour of the Freedom of the Borough by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

He was also knighted in the New Year's Honours.

The 90-year-old co-founded the company in Ballymena with his father Robert.

It's the latest setback for the manufacturing powerhouse of Co Antrim.

Last week, oil services Schlumberger announced it was going ahead with plans to close its Newtownabbey plant, while Williams Industrial Services in Mallusk went into administration with the loss of 145 jobs.Victoria Beckham has ruled out a rumoured Spice Girls reunion tour.

The pop star turned fashion designer, 43, rejected reports the much-loved quintet would be playing live across the UK and US this summer.

It comes after the group confirmed plans to work again on new projects following a reunion lunch at Geri Horners house in Hertfordshire last week.

Beckham told Vogue: Im not going on tour. The girls arent going on tour.

Asked what their plans did involve, she said: Theres something so strong in the message of what the Spice Girls stood for. What is that in the future? What does that look like? We were just bouncing ideas around. Brainstorming.

It was so great to see the girls. We had such a fun lunch. It was really, really, really lovely. I still speak to them all individually, but for us all to get together was really lovely, Beckham added.

After debut single Wannabe hit number one in 1996, the Spice Girls became a smash-hit success before splitting in 2000.

The quintet embarked on a three-month tour of Europe and the US in 2008 to tie in with a greatest hits release and to act as a final farewell to fans.

They emerged once more to perform at the Olympic closing ceremony in 2012 but an expected comeback in 2016 with Brown, Horner and Bunton failed to materialise.No matter how tough the going gets for Mary Lou McDonald, the one question the new Sinn Fein president will never face from an interviewer or political opponent is: "Were you a member of the IRA?"

McDonald was born in 1969, the year the Troubles broke out. And with her personal background - growing up in south county Dublin and attending a private fee-paying school - even Sinn Fein's starkest critics must acknowledge there are no Provo skeletons in her closet.

So is she a woman with whom unionists can easily do business? McDonald is largely an unknown quantity to the wider unionist community. Until recently, even leading DUP figures had few dealings with her. In the previous talks last autumn, she attended several meetings but wasn't intensely involved in the process. This time round, she has been at Stormont almost every day.

She is still finding her feet on the detail but unionist negotiators view her as positive and constructive.

They certainly regard her as more of a political and intellectual heavyweight than Michelle O'Neill.

In her acceptance speech as new party president at the special ard fheis on Saturday, McDonald pointedly referred to having attended the Remembrance Sunday Service at St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin last November.

More such high-profile gestures to reach out to the unionist community will surely follow.

Yet this is not entirely new ground for Sinn Fein. Five years ago, the party's Belfast Lord Mayor Mairtin O Muilleoir attended an Armistice Day ceremony at City Hall. He walked shoulder to shoulder with DUP Deputy Lord Mayor Christopher Stalford and British Legion officials to pay his respects at the Cenotaph.

McDonald's unscripted 'Up the rebels' and 'Tiocfaidh ar la' remarks as she closed her speech have caused unionist unease. But the new Sinn Fein president has to keep the party's traditional base on board and is surely mindful that some may still see her as a political blow-in given her previous history in Fianna Fail.

It was noticeable that she wore an Easter Lily on her jacket on Saturday even though Easter is six weeks away. Such a premature act of symbolism is similar to those unionists who choose to wear poppies in October to make a point.

On Saturday, Gerry Adams wisely adopted a low profile and allowed McDonald to enjoy her moment in the sun.

She received a rapturous reception from party members. But the real test will be if Sinn Fein rises in the opinion polls now, and if the party can make significant gains in the next Dail election.

In a poll a fortnight ago, 61% of all voters said McDonald's leadership would make no difference to whether they'd vote Sinn Fein.

A total of 21% said they'd be more inclined to support the party with her at the helm, but 12% said they'd be less likely to. So the jury's still out on how big a bounce Sinn Fein can expect under her.

Just before becoming party president, McDonald tweeted a photo of her morning coffee in a Wonder Woman mug. The epic adventures of Mary Lou (in her own shoes) are about to begin.BBC reporter Kevin Magee thanked all those who supported him after he was confronted by an angry mob of so-called paedophile hunters during his investigation into their activities.

The BBC has confirmed it is to screen his investigation which led to the angry scene in Belfast last week.

Broadcaster Magee was confronted by a group of self-proclaimed paedophile hunters last Tuesday evening in a Belfast coffee shop. It appeared they were angry after he attempted to interview one of them earlier.

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The group broadcast the confrontation live of Facebook. One of the men was furious, apparently after Mr Magee had visited his home for an interview about the activities of groups that hunt sex offenders.

There is no suggestion Mr Magee has done anything wrong.

During the video, one man asks Mr Magee: "How does it feel to be confronted? You don't like this, Kevin, do you?"

"This is what you call power."

The footage was viewed around 100,000 times before it was taken down by the group.

The expletive-ridden rant at the senior BBC journalist was condemned as an "attack on media freedom".

The BBC is to screen Mr Magee's investigation on Tuesday night's main 6.30pm Newsline programme.

"Thanks to everyone who sent me messages last week. Much appreciated," tweeted the journalist.

In a plug for the investigation, Mr Magee can be seen confronting members of the groups.

Thanks to everyone who sent me messages last week. Much appreciated. My report on so-called paedophile hunters will be broadcast tomorrow on @bbcnewsline and @BBCgmu pic.twitter.com/IKCeSQP1od  Kevin Magee (@KevinMageeBeeb) February 12, 2018

The PSNI said it would review the footage of the incident to establish whether any offences were committed.

The BBC confirmed an incident had taken place saying it could not comment further.

Ian Murray, director of the Society of Editors, said every citizen had the right to question a journalist, but no one had the right to do so in such a manner.

"There is a world of difference between his approach as a professional journalist working for the BBC who had to follow strict guidelines, and what appears to be a small, determined vocal and aggressive mob who were harassing him in the street," Mr Murray said.

"It is beholden on journalists to ensure that all reports are balanced and attempting to put both sides of a story.

"If Kevin Magee was putting together a report on paedophile hunters in Northern Ireland, surely they would have been just as upset if he had not attempted to approach them to put their side of the story of what they were doing and why they were doing it?"

The National Union of Journalists also offered its support.

Seamus Dooley, NUJ Irish secretary described Kevin Magee as a journalist of the "highest integrity".

"He was abused and intimidated while carrying out a legitimate news investigation in the public interest," he said.

"No group is above the law and there is no place in a democratic society for vigilante groups, regardless of their motives. This attack is an attack on media freedom and must be condemned in the strongest manner."Police at the scene of the crash

A woman died yesterday after a horror road smash near Toomebridge, Co Antrim.

The woman - who has not been named - was killed when her car was in collision with a bus on the Moneynick Road just before 3pm.

It is believed the 58-year-old died at the scene as a result of her injuries.

Last night the main road remained closed between the Gallagh Road and the Gloverstown Road.

PSNI Inspector Colin Ash issued a request for witnesses to the fatal collision, calling on anyone who had any information or who had seen the crash happen to contact the PSNI.

And as snow continued to fall and road conditions across the province worsened, the PSNI also issued a separate appeal for drivers to slow down and to stay safe in the treacherous conditions.

"Torrential rain outside, which is possibly going to turn to snow," the PSNI said via Facebook.

"Roads are treacherous.

"If you're snuggled up at home stay where you are.

"If you're out and about, take care.

"Stay safe."

Officers also posted a photo of a speed trap device which had tracked a car travelling at 104mph on the M1 yesterday, as its owner raced towards the airport for a flight.

"Despite the atrocious weather and road conditions we are experiencing today, a driver in a hurry to get to the airport was detected speeding this afternoon on the M1 by Enniskillen Road Policing Officers. This is a very high speed. The message is 'Slow down because speed kills'.

Meanwhile, a collision occurred on the westbound carriageway of the A4, approximately a mile from the Ballygawley roundabout.

And in Larne, the Ballycraigy Road was closed, as was the stretch of road between the Ardmore Road and Armagh Road roundabout in Newry.

The PSNI also issued a warning to motorists in relation to general road conditions in Dungannon yesterday, where Quarry Lane was closed due to the deteriorating wintry weather conditions.Worshippers at a gospel hall devastated by an arson attack were still able to meet yesterday for their weekly Sunday service thanks to the kindness of a local school.

Ballymagarrick Gospel Hall, near Carryduff, was gutted in the fire early last Sunday morning.

Police are still investigating the cause of the blaze.

Yesterday its congregation met at the nearby Ballymacbrennan School Hall for its services.

Gospel Hall elder Sydney Glenn told the Belfast Telegraph the congregation had been inundated with offers of alternative accommodation.

"We were offered quite a number of halls, and quite a number of church halls, a funeral parlour and a number of school assembly halls. Unbelievable," he said.

"There's a wee hall just a couple of miles down the road from us which is very suitable so we took it.

"We were able to have the full breaking of bread service this morning, the Sunday school as normal and the Gospel meeting in the evening as normal.

"And then the children's meeting on Tuesday night will be as normal, and the prayer meeting on Wednesday as normal."

Mr Glenn said they believe it will be a number of months before they will be back in their own hall, and said they do not yet know the full cost of the damage, but he added that it was "extensive".Irelands deputy premier has played down a lack of face-to-face meeting between the Taoiseach and the DUP during Mondays crunch talks at Stormont.

Arlene Fosters party failed to meet with Leo Varadkar when he travelled to the region amid hopes of a breakthrough in the political stalemate between the DUP and Sinn Fein.

He and Tanaiste Simon Coveney held meetings with all of the other main political parties throughout the afternoon.

Meeting with @Number10gov Theresa May and her officials in Belfast, constructive talks on restoring power sharing and Brexit. Next up: meeting leaders of the Northern Irish parties pic.twitter.com/RvHcIpjh3Q  Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) February 12, 2018

Mr Varadkar said although there had been no meeting with the DUP he believed progress had been made between the unionist party and Sinn Fein.

We didnt meet with the DUP on this occasion. I think you have heard what they had to say today I think the soundings from Arlene Foster and Mary Lou McDonald were positive, said Mr Varadkar.

Relations between the DUP and the Irish Government have become increasingly strained in recent months over Brexit.

However Mr Coveney insisted that the lack of a meeting was simply due to DUP scheduling.

The DUP had meetings internally this morning right up until lunchtime so I wouldnt read too much into that, he said.

The DUP held a meeting with UK Prime Minister Theresa May.

A DUP spokeswoman indicated the reason for the lack of meeting was not down to diary commitments, rather that Mondays talks were focused on issues internal to Northern Ireland.

Today was focused on internal matters relating to Northern Ireland, she said.

We will meet with the Irish Government on matters of mutual concern in due course.The SDLP described the departure of Prime Minster Theresa May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar from Belfast without any agreement as "embarrassing".

SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood said both prime ministers had been brought to sign-off on a deal but were instead left embarrassed by the DUP and Sinn Fein.

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"For the first time in 13 months people across the north woke up this morning with the real expectation that a deal would finally be done between the DUP and Sinn Fein," he said.

"Two prime ministers were brought up to Stormont for a deal to be done - instead they are leaving here having been embarrassed by the DUP and Sinn Fein."

Expand Close SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood speaking to the media at Stormont. Pic: Niall Carson/PA Wire PA / Facebook

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He added: "The opportunity is still there to get this deal over the line but it will require a level of leadership and courage that has evaded these parties for far too long. Instead of allowing these parties to run the show, both Governments need to drive this process to a conclusion.

"Ive also made it clear to both Governments that if a deal is secured we will play our role in any subsequent negotiations on a Programme for Government and we will judge the terms of the deal honestly. However, the SDLP will not be bounced into a Government that fails to deliver on our economy, our health service and our schools.

Expand Close UUP leader Robin Swann Freddie Parkinson / Facebook

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Ulster Unionist leader, Robin Swann MLA said that while a deal was still possible, it remained exclusively a two-party process.

We made clear to the Prime Minister that the Ulster Unionist Party wants to play a positive constructive role in these discussions but we remain excluded from the process," he said.

If the intention is to form a stable and effective Executive, then this talks process would need to move to the next stage very rapidly.

The whole premise of the Belfast Agreement was inclusivity. This process has shown no indication of that.

"The long suffering people of Northern Ireland have been subjected to over a year of self-indulgence and political posturing while waiting lists and school budgets are out of control.

It is well beyond time for the DUP and Sinn Fein to front up and reveal what agreement they have reached so far.

Expand Close Naomi Long MLA leader of the Alliance Party leads her party's delegation for a press conference at Stormont in Belfast. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press / Facebook

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Whatsapp Naomi Long MLA leader of the Alliance Party leads her party's delegation for a press conference at Stormont in Belfast. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press

Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA has said the sustainability of any deal emerging from the current talks process had to be the priority for both Governments.

"We welcomed the opportunity to engage with the Prime Minister and the Taoiseach, and to stress to both the importance of ensuring if any deal between the DUP and Sinn Fein is reached in the next few days, it is future proofed and sustainable, she said.

Specifically, we stressed reform of the petition of concern is needed. It is vital to prevent any future difficult decisions destabilising a new Executive and Assembly. Deferring the decision itself could create instability later if reform cannot be agreed.

We also emphasised the impact their approach to Brexit will have on sustainability. Only the UK remaining within a customs union and single market or a special deal for Northern Ireland which avoids a hard border will prevent further political instability. The UK Government has a particular responsibility to recognise the impact of a hard Brexit and hard border on Northern Ireland, and the institutions."

She added: "Finally, we raised the issue of dealing with the past and its legacy, specifically the proposed statute of limitations for soldiers accused of unlawful killings in the Troubles. Such a statute, which was inserted after the Stormont House Agreement and which has the support of no party here, would undermine the rule of law and could seriously derail any deal made from this talks process, not to mention the legacy structures themselves.

It is vital not only we see an Executive restored, but it is stable and capable of addressing the major political, social and financial challenges which face us. Anything less will fail to restore public confidence in politics and the institutions.The EU is now pushing hard for Northern Ireland to remain in the single market and customs union, separate to Britain, after Brexit.

The move would mean border checks not having to be put in place.

Chief EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier has warned that the UK's decision to leave the single market and customs union will mean checks at the border are "unavoidable".

After stating that any solution on the issue be "precise, clear and unambiguous", Mr Barnier is proposing that Northern Ireland would stay in the single market and customs union.

He wants the December agreement on no return of the border written into law, which would force the UK Government to concede.

The move to treat Northern Ireland differently would be resisted by the DUP.

However, the UK Government would have to push it through.

The outcome would be of benefit to the Republic, and the remainder of the EU countries support what Mr Barnier is proposing.

Meanwhile, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar yesterday called for clarity from the UK in terms of its approach to Brexit. He added that he understands Mr Barnier's frustrations with the British.

"The difficulty is, what we are trying to do with the EU, is to ensure what was agreed in December is stitched into the legal text of a withdrawal agreement, and the transition period which the UK is keen to have is conditional on that," Mr Varadkar told RTE's The Week In Politics programme.

"I understand Mr Barnier's frustrations with the lack of progress since December.

"We need clarity from the UK... the last resort still applies."

Mr Varadkar also denied that the Brexit deal struck late last year had been oversold.

Meanwhile, it has been warned that any border infrastructure on the island of Ireland would be a "clear and present danger" to the peace process. Irish senator Neal Richmond said repeated warnings against any type of border were not "alarmism".

The Fine Gael EU affairs spokesman warned: "Any border and customs infrastructure is a viable threat to the peace process which is only 20 years old on this island.

"The Irish Government is a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement... as are the British Government, so we do have a responsibility to make sure that case is known."

Speaking on ITV's Peston On Sunday programme, Mr Richmond said: "It is not alarmism."

He said: "We get tired of people saying we are fear- mongering."

Mr Richmond added:"This is a clear and present danger to our peace process which needs to be tackled."A former soldier turned Assembly member has said his experiences serving in Bosnia give him major concerns about the impact an Irish Language Act could have on Northern Ireland.

Doug Beattie served with the Royal Irish, reaching the rank of captain and winning the Military Cross before retiring and moving into politics where he was elected as an Ulster Unionist MLA in Upper Bann.

Mr Beattie described seeing in Bosnia what "entrenched divisions along cultural, ethnic and linguistic lines can look like", adding: "I do not wish that for Northern Ireland."

Sinn Fein's demands for an Irish Language Act have so far been one of the main sticking points in political talks to re-establish power-sharing at Stormont, which has been collapsed for more than a year.

Mr Beattie said if an Irish Language Act will see a town centre like Portadown "festooned with dual English and Ulster-Scots signs, while areas such as the Garvaghy Road will be clearly delineated by English and Irish Language signs", it would divide society further.

"My identity and culture is proudly represented by the Union Flag, God Save the Queen, Ulster and Ireland Rugby, Gaelic games, the shamrock, Guinness, St Patrick's Day, Derry and Londonderry, the Sash my father wore, poets and authors, actors and artists as well as Ulster Scots and the Irish Language," he wrote on his Facebook page.

"If I look at all those things that I believe define me, my identity and culture, I find it hard to accept anything that will divide me from those who view themselves differently yet hold many of the same things dear to them.

"The implementation of specific language acts would not be - in my opinion - good for Northern Ireland. The unintentional consequence would be to separate and divide by marking out community territories and boundaries."

Mr Beattie said he felt indigenous languages were a part of his identity or culture, but that an Irish Language Act or an Ulster-Scots Act would be too divisive. "It will separate and it will alienate communities in the exactly the same way as flags or painted kerb stones," he said.

"Language is often bound up with identity, and that is especially true of this society at this point in time. It is unfortunately the case that language has been used by some - if not quite as a weapon - certainly as a tool to divide and exclude, to separate out one section of our society from another."

Mr Beattie warned he did not feel he could support a deal to resurrect Stormont that included a Language Act.

"If any deal to get the Executive and Assembly up and running means our country will become more divided, more sectarian and more unstable, then I cannot support it. Nor can I support an Ulster-Scots Act as some kind of pay-off for an Irish Language Act," he said. "The reality remains that we have spent years trying to bring communities together and I believe what is proposed will merely reinforce division."Prime Minister Theresa May has told the Northern Ireland parties they have one final chance to restore the Stormont institutions.

Mrs May was speaking after flying into Belfast on Monday. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also made the trip to the city with speculation a deal on restoring the Northern Ireland institutions was imminent.

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Speaking at Stormont House, she said she had spoke with the leaders of the main parties involved.

"I have urged them to make one final push for the sake of the people of Northern Ireland," she said.

"It has been 13 long months since we last saw devolved government here and we are now at the point where it is for the local elected representatives to find a way to work together to find a deal with the many pressing issues facing Northern Ireland."

She described her meetings with the five main parties as "full and frank".

"There is the basis for an agreement - it should be possible to see an Executive up and running very soon.

"The DUP and Sinn Fein have been working very hard to close the remaining gaps but I'd also like to recognise the contribution of the other parties too.

"We all are fully committed to do everything we can to support this and as far as Westminster is concerned we stand ready to legislate for the re-establishment of an Executive as soon as possible after an agreement."

Asked if she would return to Northern Ireland to sign off on any deal, the Prime Minister did not respond.

Expand Close Prime Minister Theresa May speaks outside Stormont House in Belfast. Pic: Niall Carson/PA Wire PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp Prime Minister Theresa May speaks outside Stormont House in Belfast. Pic: Niall Carson/PA WireTHE son of IRA murder victim Brian Stack has said he doesn't think Sinn Fein will change under Mary Lou McDonald's leadership.

Austin Stack also said he believes she will be a "puppet" for party figures in Belfast.

And he said that for Sinn Fein to change it needs to take responsibility for all the harm that was done by the party and the Provisional IRA during the Troubles "without any excuses".

He said they should say "we are holding our hands up" and apologise to victims, saying: "It shouldn't have happened."

Brian Stack was chief prison officer in Portlaoise prison when he was shot in the neck in 1983.

The father-of-three died 18 months after the attack.

His son said he'd like Ms McDonald to get her party to stop running former paramilitary prisoners as election candidates and using them as backroom political staff.

He said: "Seeing those individuals in prominent positions causes the hurt to be revisited."

Mr Stack said taking those steps would indicate to IRA victims' families that the party has changed.

Sinn Fein last night said the party is an "equal opportunities employer and does not discriminate against former political prisoners".

It said the electorate decides who takes public office.

Ms McDonald yesterday denied she is "anybody's puppet" when it was suggested to her during one of her broadcast interviews that Mr Adams would still control the party behind the scenes.

Asked by Sky News if she still considers Sinn Fein to be the political wing of the Provisional IRA she insisted the party is "independent" and: "The IRA has gone away."

Meanwhile, prominent Sinn Fein critic Mairia Cahill - who alleges she was raped by an IRA member as a teenager - said she doesn't think the party will change "without properly finding a way to atone for the past".

Ms Cahill criticised Ms McDonald for attending IRA commemorations.

She said Sinn Fein need to "put a lid on it" in terms of those kinds of events but added: "I'm not quite sure they're going to do it with Mary Lou McDonald".

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said such commemorations glorify IRA violence.

He has rejected the prospect of a Fine Gael coalition with Sinn Fein.

Ms McDonald faced criticism after attending a wreath-laying ceremony in Castlewellan, Co Down, last month. The event commemorated Peter McNulty, an IRA member who died in 1972 when a device he was planting at a police station exploded.

Sinn Fein last night noted that Ms McDonald's ard fheis speech outlined how the right of all sides to respect their dead must be respected.

A statement said she recognises "the need for reconciliation and healing of the past, whilst respecting others' experience".DUP leader Arlene Foster has said no deal has been reached in talks between her party and Sinn Fein, but "good progress made".

It comes as speculation mounts an outline of a deal has been agreed between the two main parties. Both Prime Minister Theresa May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar travelled to Belfast, it's thought, to get a deal signed off.

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Arlene Foster described the tone of Monday's talks as "very good".

"We need a deal that is supported by everybody and that is sustainable," she said.

"We want devolution. If the public are frustrated at pace of progress, we all are as well."

The MLA said she had told the Prime Minister she wanted to see devolution returned as soon as possible.

"It is about finding an accommodation that recognises the need to respect all languages and all cultures in Northern Ireland and not allow one to dominate over another."

She added: "We continue to have those conversations and we will continue to have conversations with Sinn Fein around the outstanding matters and indeed with our own government as well.

"If the public are frustrated at the pace of progress, we all are as well."

Later Mary Lou McDonald also said there was work to do to reach an agreement.

"Functioning institutions that deliver for the people are in the best interests of everyone," she said.

The new Sinn Fein president said she had met with both the Irish and British governments and encouraged them to "show leadership".

"We are not exactly there just yet," she said.

"Nothing is insurmountable. If there is the political will to reach an agreement we certainly have the determination to find a resolution.

"This has been a long process, the issues are important but they were never beyond resolution.

"We have to find a deal that delivers on the core issues that have been clear from the get go - we are serious about functioning power sharing.

"We are serious about working in good faith and in partnership with others and we expect the same from our unionist partners and the two governments

"This is the time to decide."

Deputy party leader Michelle O'Neill confirmed a standalone Irish language act was one of their party's goals in the talks.

"We have to have public confidence in the institutions and the only way to do that is for the institutions to reflect all."Ross Davidson from Carrickfergus who recently returned home after having his leg amputated in a Thai scooter accident

A Carrickfergus man whose leg was amputated after a horrific motorbike crash in Thailand is back home - and aiming to walk on his own within the next month.

Ross Davidson (23) almost lost his life and had to have his right leg amputated above the knee after the accident in December.

The former Carrickfergus Grammar pupil had spent two months backpacking around Thailand when he crashed in Pai, in the north of the country.

His family believe that he hit a pothole and was thrown down the road while riding a moped-style bike.

Ross's parents, Desna (48) and Andrew (48), flew out to Thailand to be by his bedside, but his leg had already been amputated by the time they arrived.

He initially underwent an amputation at Chiang Mai's Nakornping Hospital, but a virulent infection meant a further operation was required in Bangkok.

"When he got to Bangkok the infection was so bad that the surgeon there amputated his leg again," Andrew said.

"The first amputation was above the knee, but after the second one he only has half what he would have had between the knee and hip.

"He could have lost his life if they hadn't done it, the infection was so strong. When we spoke to him we told him that he could live without the leg, but we couldn't live without him.

"A surgeon we know told him that if the sepsis had got into his abdomen he would have been dead."

Ross was later airlifted home, and arrived back in Belfast on January 12. He was immediately rushed to the Royal Victoria Hospital, where he spent 10 days in recovery.

"It has been devastating for him, but he is a positive boy," Andrew said. "He didn't know how bad it was when the infection took hold and spread to the rest of his body.

"He lost four stone and he still gets tired easily, but he is very lucky. The care he got in the Royal was fantastic, and it was such a relief to get him home."

Ross is now in a wheelchair and has also started physiotherapy. Next week will mark a milestone in his recovery when he attends his first appointment for a prosthetic limb at Musgrave Park Hospital.

A JustGiving page set up to cover Ross' rehabilitation and medical costs has raised almost 23,000.

"We hope he will be walking within the month. We are hoping to use some of the money raised by the local community to cover Ross' medical costs to buy a state-of-the-art prosthetic limb," Andrew said.

"He is only 23 and he has a full life ahead of him and wants to be able to run and cycle and swim.

"The latest prosthetic technology could cost between 20,000-40,000 and we are so grateful that the community support could help us to get this."

Andrew said that he is surprised by how well Ross is coping.

"It is inspiring," he said.

Ross said he considers himself "the luckiest person ever".

"I'm grateful that I'm able to make plans for the future. I could have been dead," he said.

"Things are going to take a bit longer, but I'm taking it as time to do research, to up-skill myself and to get better.

"I'm looking at doing a course in tailoring and fashion design, as I would love to be a clothing designer. I've also been asked to do a bit of modelling. I had done some before, and there are agencies which are specifically for amputees.

"My parents have been a massive support through this - they are supermum and superdad!

"We are still fundraising and hopefully with the right prosthetic leg I will be able to run, climb and do all the things I had been planning to do.

"It will mean I am able to lead a normal life."The heartbroken parents of a five-year-old boy who died in hospital after falling into a Co Antrim river have paid a moving tribute to their "happy-go-lucky" son "who just melted your heart".

Leanne and Darrel Fleck were speaking just hours after they lost their son Kayden - whom they described as "your average wee boy" - in what is believed to have been an awful accident.

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The tragedy, which occurred exactly a fortnight after his mum and dad got married, is understood to have unfolded when Kayden and twin brother Jayden were playing by the River Braid in Ballymena, near the Ecos Centre.

Kayden, a pupil at Harryville Primary School, accidentally fell into the icy cold, fast-flowing water near Skye Park at around 1pm on Saturday and was swept more than four miles downstream.

The Belfast Telegraph understands that it was dad Darrel who raised the alarm after he'd gone looking for the twins, who were thought to have been playing in a park near the Flecks' old family home in Ballykeel 2.

A major rescue operation was launched immediately and, after an extensive search, Kayden was recovered from the river near Tullygarley Bridge some two hours later.

He was airlifted to hospital, where he later died.

Devastated Mr and Mrs Fleck, who said they affectionately called the twin boys "the two musketeers", also have an older son Daniel (14) and a daughter Amelia, who is three.

The distraught family circle were last night being comforted by relatives and close friends at the house of Leanne's sister Samantha in Orkney Drive, also in Ballykeel 2 in the Co Antrim town.

Mr and Mrs Fleck and their four children had lived in the housing estate up until a week ago, but had moved to a new home in the nearby village of Cullybackey.

Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Members of the family of Kayden Fleck visit the scene of the accident A police officer near the scene where Kayden Fleck fell into the water Kayden Fleck (right) with twin brother Jayden Photopress Belfast / Facebook

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A neighbour, who saw the twins in the street on Saturday morning shortly before tragedy struck, said the community was reeling from shock over the child's death.

"The boys were never out of their mummy and daddy's sight; they never went out on their own, so it's a mystery what happened," she said.

The results of a post-mortem are expected today.

It is understood that the body will be returned to Kayden's godmother Samantha McGowan's home, where the blinds remained closed all day yesterday.

Expressing her sorrow on Facebook, Miss McGowan said she will never forget the precious moments she and her nephew shared together.

"My heart is torn. I don't know how I am ever gonna have the strength to say goodbye wee man," she wrote.

"But I will treasure our memories forever.

"I will never forget the fun times we had together, also the times you sometimes did my head in.

"You were one of my closest ever nephews.

"Not only my nephew, but my godson.

"I love you baby boy.

"I will see you again someday wee man.

"Sleep tight baby we all love you and life will never be the same. xx"

In a statement issued by the PSNI on behalf of the family last night, Darrel and Leanne described their "happy-go-lucky" son as "your average wee boy" who "just melted your heart".

The statement added: "The family want to thank each of the agencies who were involved in the search and rescue operation yesterday, and say they are grateful for the community support they have received since."

A message on Twitter from Harryville Primary School read: "School will be open on Monday and Tuesday from 12noon until 6pm to allow anyone from Harryville, Ballykeel and wider areas to come and sign a book of condolence for Kayden and his family.

"There will also be a donation box and tea/coffee available."

Sean McCarry, regional commander of the Community Rescue Service, said it was "a major search operation in very, very difficult conditions".

"Despite valiant efforts by rescuers from PSNI, the Community Rescue Service and NIFRS, the child was carried a considerable distance downstream in the river which was moving extremely fast," said Mr McCarry, who was recently involved in the Cave Hill search for missing Belfast man Michael Cullen.

"Once we located the child we were able to pull him from the water very quickly."

The search operation began near the Ecos Centre, a nature park off the Broughshane Road, around 1pm on Saturday.

It involved police, firefighters, the Ambulance Service and Community Rescue Service volunteers. The Ambulance Service said it dispatched the air ambulance, an A&E crew and a doctor to the scene.

It confirmed that the child was recovered from the water and was flown by the helicopter to the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.

The boy travelled more than four miles along the river from the point where he entered the water to the point where he was pulled out.Police officers at the scene of the incident at Lismoyne Park in north Belfast

Police are investigating the suspicious death of a woman in her home in north Belfast.

May Stevens (64) died in a house in Lismoyne Park off the city's busy North Circular Road, in the early hours of Sunday.

The upmarket street, where properties can cost almost half a million pounds, remained sealed off by police officers on Monday as the PSNIs probe into the death got under way.

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service told the Belfast Telegraph that an emergency response crew had been called to the house just after 3am yesterday following a report of a woman having being found unconscious.

Police at both entrances to Lismoyne Park prevented reporters from entering the street to speak to residents.

But as heavy snow fell in the area last night a local man who was out walking his dog on North Circular Road said that the street had been sealed off since at least 7am yesterday morning.

Another local man said that he had seen police officers searching in the hedges and along kerbs earlier in the day.

Police on Sunday would only confirm they were dealing with an incident in the area.Police officers at the scene of the incident at Lismoyne Park in north Belfast

Police are investigating a possible burglary link in the death of May Stevens in north Belfast.

The 64-year-old mother of two was found in her home in Lismoyne Park just after 3am Sunday morning.

Her husband had been sleeping in an upstairs bedroom at the time.

PSNI briefing on suspicious death of 64 year old May Stevens in Lismoyne Park, north Belfast. Posted by Belfast Telegraph on Monday, February 12, 2018

Police had called to her home after her car was spotted and failed to stop for officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Peter Montgomery called on those responsible to "examine their conscience" and come forward to police.

He other items were taken but he would not go into detail. He said a post-mortem was underway to determine the cause of death and until then it was being treated as suspicious".

"What I find particularly callous is that they found the time to lock that car up before walking away," he said.

said: At this stage we are treating Mrs Stevens death as suspicious. We now know that her car was stolen between 1.30am and 2am on Sunday before it was found abandoned in Glenbank Place at around 6.45am.

I am keen to trace the movements of the car, a red Hyundai I30, bearing registration plates NRZ 3370, in north Belfast between 1.30am and 6.45am. The vehicle has damage to its nearside. I would also like to speak to anyone who has information about two men who were seen walking away from the car after it was abandoned in Glenbank Place in the direction of the Crumlin Road.

I am investigating a possible link to two other attempted burglaries in the area in the early hours of Sunday morning  one of which was also in Lismoyne Park.

I can fully understand the shock and devastation felt in the community today following this sickening incident, Mrs Stevens was last seen alive in her house late on Saturday evening and I am awaiting the results of the post mortem.

"May touched the lives of many people living in this community as she was a long standing public servant teaching maths to pupils at the Boys Model as well as working at Newtownabbey Region College in recent years.

This incident has left the Stevens family mourning the loss of a wife, mother and sister. Mrs Stevens was looking forward to becoming a grandmother.

We take the issue of crime against older people extremely seriously and remain committed to putting those responsible before the courts. We work to prevent such crimes, to catch those responsible for incidents which do occur and to help older people keep themselves and their home safe. We understand the effect that burglary can have on its victims and want to reassure the community that we are undertaking thorough and robust investigations into these crimes.

I am appealing for anyone who has any information about this incident to contact detectives in Musgrave Street on 101 Ext 17019, alternatively, information can also be provided about either incident to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.The Prime Minister and Taoiseach are set for crunch talks with Northern Irelands political leaders amid growing speculation that a deal to restore powersharing could be close.

Theresa May and Leo Varadkar are travelling to Stormont in a joint push to help end the 13-month political stalemate.

Both leaders are due to hold a series of meetings at Stormont House to encourage Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionists to resolve their differences.

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While both parties have acknowledged that progress had been made, a DUP source has played down expectations of a deal being finalised on Monday, suggesting to the Press Association that if an agreement does materialise it is more likely later in the week.

In a clear sign that the dynamic at Stormont has shifted gears, the Taoiseach has cancelled a scheduled meeting with Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones in Dublin on Monday in order to head to Belfast.

Downing Street said Mrs May will tell the parties that her Government is ready to introduce legislation to enable the re-establishment of a devolved Executive as soon as possible, if an agreement is struck.

Ahead of the meetings at Stormont, the Prime Minister will visit a local business to meet staff and management.

Northern Ireland has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed.

However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is imminent.

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On Saturday, Sinn Feins Stormont leader, Michelle ONeill, said talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an Executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a standalone piece of legislation to protect speakers  an Irish Language Act  but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.

There was speculation over the weekend that three pieces of legislation  an Irish Language Act, an Ulster Scots Act and a broader Culture Act  could be a means to satisfy both sides.

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SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has warned that any deal to restore powersharing must end the cycle of political stand-off between Sinn Fein and the DUP.

He said it is not enough to simply form a new Executive.

The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off, but very bad at the responsibility of government, he said.

That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end.

Mr Eastwood added that when powersharing is restored, focus must return immediately to the threat posed by Brexit, the economy and the crises in the health service and school budgets.A Queen's University academic has uncovered the violent past of the first ever interstellar visitor to our solar system.

The object, which has been named 'Oumuamua, sped across our solar system in October and was originally thought to be a comet.

But it was later revealed to be a cucumber-shaped asteroid.

Since October Dr Wes Fraser, Dr Pedro Lacerda, Dr Michele Bannister and Professor Alan Fitzsimmons, all from Queen's University's School of Mathematics and Physics, have been analysing the brightness measurements of the rock.

They have been working with an international team, including Dr Petr Pravec of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Dr Colin Snodgrass from The Open University and Igor Smolic from the University of Belgrade.

The team discovered that 'Oumuamua wasn't spinning periodically like most of the small asteroids we see in our solar system, but instead it was tumbling, or spinning chaotically, and could have been for many billions of years.

While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact reason for this, it is thought that 'Oumuamua impacted with another asteroid before it was fiercely thrown out of its system.

Dr Fraser explained: "Our modelling of this body suggests the tumbling will last for many billions of years to hundreds of billions of years before internal stresses cause it to rotate normally again.

"While we don't know the cause of the tumbling, we predict that it was most likely sent tumbling by an impact with another planetesimal in its system, before it was ejected into interstellar space."

Scientists had been puzzled that 'Oumuamua's colour appeared to vary between measurements. However, Dr Fraser's research has now revealed that its surface is spotty and that when the long face of the cucumber-shaped object was facing telescopes on Earth it was largely red, but the rest of the body was neutral-coloured, like dirty snow.

"Most of the surface reflects neutrally but one of its long faces has a large red region. This argues for broad compositional variations, which is unusual for such a small body," he said.

The research findings are published in Nature Astronomy.An Ulster Unionist has said Mary Lou McDonald missed an opportunity to reach out to his community when she ended her leadership acceptance speech with "Up the rebels" and "Tiocfaidh ar la".

Upper Bann MLA Doug Beattie said he was disappointed by the new Sinn Fein president's remarks at her party's special ard fheis in Dublin on Saturday.

TUV leader Jim Allister said the incident reinforced why the DUP should not return to government with Sinn Fein at Stormont.

Critics claimed that the remarks harked back to a "dark time" when the IRA campaign was in full swing.

Mr Beattie said: "There was an opportunity for Mary Lou McDonald to say something without going down that old, tired route of promoting those who have blighted our society for the past four decades.

"She missed that opportunity and that's a shame. She turned people off in a split-second. I find that very unfortunate."

However, Mr Beattie insisted that he wasn't writing off Ms McDonald on the basis of her closing ard fheis remarks.

"Everybody has the opportunity to rectify a situation. One speech doesn't make a policy or a future," he said.

"Ms McDonald has every opportunity in coming months and years to prove herself. But I would have to say that she hasn't got off to a great start."

Mr Allister said he wasn't in the slightest surprised by Ms McDonald's remarks. "They represent the real heart of Sinn Fein and are yet another reminder of why the DUP should not be facilitating these people into government," he said.

"In government, their purpose will be the same as it was at their ard fheis - namely to subvert and end Northern Ireland's position within the UK." At the gathering, Ms McDonald concluded her speech with "Up the rebels agus Tiocfaidh ar la" (our day will come).

There was a standing ovation from around 2,000 party members who had assembled in the RDS.

For unionists, the use of those two phrases overshadowed the parts of her speech that addressed the need for reconciliation and how Sinn Fein wanted to achieve a united Ireland with "graciousness and generosity".

Former UUP leader Mike Nesbitt said that given Ms McDonald had taken over the leadership unopposed and hadn't needed to reassure her base, it was "a missed opportunity to deliver change".

He maintained that the new Sinn Fein president spoke of fresh-thinking and bold ideas "but ended with the same, stale rhetoric". Unionism would "not be slow to identify the contradictions", he said.

"Now the speech is over, let's see what she has to offer in the coming week's talks in Belfast," he added.

Fianna Fail TD Darragh O'Brien described Ms McDonald's words as "ill-judged".

He said: "Comments like that really hark back to a very dark time in this island's history when many people were murdered by the Provisional IRA."

He said he would "like to see the end of those types of phrases".

Fine Gael Senator Kieran O'Donnell clashed on RTE radio with Sinn Fein TD Pearse Doherty over his leader's remarks. Mr O'Donnell claimed they had been "irresponsible" with talks in Northern Ireland at a "very delicate stage".

Mr Doherty denied that Ms McDonald's comments were odd and insisted that unionists knew full well that Sinn Fein was a republican party which wanted to achieve a united Ireland.

In a statement last night, responding to criticism of its new leader's use of language, Sinn Fein said: "Mary Lou McDonald has recognised the need for reconciliation and healing of the past, whilst respecting others' experience."

The party added that it was in the business of delivering change, which seemed to be a challenge to other parties.

Ms McDonald has maintained that she thinks republicans can do business with DUP leader Arlene Foster.

On becoming Sinn Fein leader on Saturday, she said: "I very much hope we get the institutions back up and running."

In her speech she recalled "all those who have struggled for Irish freedom in every generation. The women and men who stood for the republican cause through hard times, through times of war, through poverty and discrimination".

She added: "We are proud to walk in the pathway carved out by so many republican heroes - women and men. The rebel Irish who never bowed down, who never gave up."

But she stressed that it was a time for fresh thinking and bold ideas, adding "the war is long over".Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley welcomes Prime Minister Theresa May to Stormont in Belfast where they will meet the main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate. Niall Carson/PA Wire

Prime Minister Theresa May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will arrive in Belfast today as Sinn Fein and the DUP hammer out the final details of a deal to restore power-sharing.

The two leaders will meet Northern Ireland's five main political parties during their visit which is seen as a strong sign that a talks breakthrough is imminent.

The Belfast Telegraph exclusively revealed last Thursday that Sinn Fein and the DUP were very close to a deal, which sees significant compromise by both sides to end the political stalemate.

Read More

Talks sources last night described today as a "huge day" in the negotiations.

A Downing Street spokesman said Mrs May would take part in a series of meetings at Stormont House, and encouraged Sinn Fein and the DUP to resolve their differences.

A spokesman for Mr Varadkar said that he and Mrs May would assess the state of play in the negotiations between the two parties.

In a sign that the dynamic at Stormont has significantly shifted gears, the Taoiseach cancelled a scheduled meeting with Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones in Dublin today in order to head to Belfast.

There is speculation that the Government may offer Northern Ireland additional funding if the DUP and Sinn Fein finalise a deal.

Downing Street said Mrs May will tell the parties that her Government is ready to introduce legislation to enable the re-establishment of the Stormont institutions as soon as possible if an agreement is sealed.

Ahead of the meetings at Stormont, the Prime Minister will visit a local business to meet staff and management.

Talks between the two biggest parties were suspended over the weekend as Sinn Fein members met in Dublin to endorse Mary Lou McDonald as their new president. However, bilateral discussions will resume today.

A Stormont source said: "While the visit by the British Prime Minister and the Taoiseach is most welcome, the DUP and Sinn Fein can best spend their time talking to each other rather than to Theresa May and Leo Varadkar."

The two Governments have been largely locked out of this current round of talks with the two big parties hammering out a potential deal themselves.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood welcomed signals that a deal was finally within reach. He explained that his party would await "the publication of its detail before giving full judgment".

Mr Eastwood said: "For over a year the people of the north have been badly let down. Having been frozen in failure for over a year, a deal must not be a moment of self-congratulation for Sinn Fein and the DUP.

"If a deal is done, it must instead be a moment when our politics returns to the real challenges and crises facing this society."

The SDLP leader added: "People understand that simply forming a new Executive is not in itself enough.

"The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off but very bad at the responsibility of government.

"That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end.

"Any new government must use its power to tackle the real challenges faced by this society, it must be a new government which ends the decade-long pattern of DUP intransigence and Sinn Fein weakness, and it must be a government which proves itself of actual relevance and value to all our people."

TUV leader Jim Allister said it was clear Sinn Fein would return to the Executive only "on their terms" and he described the DUP's "desperation to get back into office in a failed system" as laden with danger.

Mr Allister said there was "no justification whatsoever for any further concessions" on the Irish language.

"Irish is already more than generously feted. Any legislation to promote it further - whether it is called an Irish Language Act or a Cultural Act wrapped up in tartan ribbon - will monumentally aid the Sinn Fein agenda of destabilising Northern Ireland," the North Antrim MLA claimed.

"Rights-based recognition will be a vehicle, whatever the DUP might pretend, to hallow out our Britishness and turn the public service into a cold house for unionist," he added.Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley welcomes Prime Minister Theresa May to Stormont in Belfast where they will meet the main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate. Niall Carson/PA Wire

Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley welcomes Prime Minister Theresa May to Stormont in Belfast where they will meet the main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate. Niall Carson/PA Wire

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley and Prime Minister Theresa May pictured meeting Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar inside Stormont House. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley welcomes Prime Minister Theresa May to Stormont House. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley pictured meeting with the Prime Minister Theresa May and Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar inside Stormont House. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley pictured meeting with the Prime Minister Theresa May and Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar inside Stormont House. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

The Prime Minister and Taoiseach are in Belfast holding talks at Stormont in a bid to help end the 13-month political stalemate in Northern Ireland.

Theresa May and Leo Varadkar arrived at Stormont House before lunch, ahead of a bilateral meeting to discuss the impasse.

The Belfast Telegraph exclusively revealed last Thursday that Sinn Fein and the DUP were very close to a deal, which sees significant compromise by both sides to end the political stalemate.

Read More

Talks sources last night described Monday as a "huge day" in the negotiations.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley and Prime Minister Theresa May sit down with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Tanaiste Simon Coveney ahead of meetings with Northern Ireland political parties. pic.twitter.com/uSvSIYhD9D  Northern Ireland Office (@NIOgov) February 12, 2018

A Downing Street spokesman said Mrs May would take part in a series of meetings at Stormont House, and encouraged Sinn Fein and the DUP to resolve their differences.

A spokesman for Mr Varadkar said that he and Mrs May would assess the state of play in the negotiations between the two parties.

On Monday Mr Varadkar tweeted that he had met with Secretary of State Karen Bradley ahead of the day's meetings.

Meeting with @Number10gov Theresa May and her officials in Belfast, constructive talks on restoring power sharing and Brexit. Next up: meeting leaders of the Northern Irish parties pic.twitter.com/RvHcIpjh3Q  Leo Varadkar (@campaignforleo) February 12, 2018

Earlier today the Prime Minister met aircraft workers at Bombardiers Belfast factory in the wake of the companys trade battle victory in the United States.

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Theresa May toured the plant floor where the wings of the Canadian manufacturers C Series jets are built.

Bombardiers bitter trade dispute with Boeing had threatened jobs at the Belfast plant after the United States trade authorities sided with the US company and proposed a 292% tariff on the import of its rivals planes into the country.

Good to meet Secretary of State Karen Bradley at start of todays meetings in Belfast pic.twitter.com/iV8xmYykPo  Leo Varadkar (@campaignforleo) February 12, 2018

There was a huge sigh of relief in Belfast when that decision was overturned by the US International Trade Commission (ITC) in Washington DC last month.

One thousand of the 4,000 strong workforce at the Belfast factory work on the C Series production line.Sinn Fein's new leader Mary Lou McDonald has accused Irish premier Leo Varadkar of being "smarmy".

Mrs McDonald referred to Mr Varadkar's penchant for novelty socks and his reference to the film Love Actually during his first visit to Downing Street last year and said: "Leo is kind of smarmy."

Her jibe at the Taoiseach comes less than a day after she replaced Gerry Adams as Sinn Fein president during a special party conference in Dublin on Saturday. It is not the first time Mrs McDonald and Mr Varadkar have clashed.

In September the Taoiseach accused Mrs McDonald of being "very cranky" and compared her to French far-right leader Marine Le Pen during ill-tempered exchanges in the Dail.

When asked during an interview with Sky News on Sunday what word she would use to describe Mr Varadkar, Mrs McDonald responded: "Smarmy."

She added: "Leo is kind of smarmy. You'll have seen him in Number 10 talking about Love Actually and donning various pairs of socks. So, smarmy." Mrs McDonald said she was hopeful she would see a united Ireland within her lifetime as Sinn Fein president.

"I would be hopeful that in the course of my tenure as leader that, yes, we would secure a referendum on unity and we would win it. It's doable," she said.

She described Brexit as an "absolute disaster" and said it was "mutually incompatible" with the Good Friday Agreement.

"I sense a real resentment amongst Irish people that Ireland becomes collateral damage in a power play with the Tories in Dublin," she said.

Mrs McDonald said the bread-and-butter and political interests of Ireland "demand the entire island stay within the customs union and single market".

"It is alarming to hear the mantra from London 'we are gone, we are out' with no sense of the consequence of that."

With crisis talks due to resume at Stormont today aimed at restoring the power-sharing executive, Mrs McDonald said she was hopeful an agreement could be reached with the DUP.

"I think we can do business with Arlene Foster," she said.Theresa May has urged Northern Irelands political leaders to make one final push to reach an agreement on restoring the powersharing executive.

After a series of high-level talks in Belfast, the Prime Minister said that while differences remain, I think there is the basis of an agreement here and hoped that an executive could be up and running very soon.

Prime Minister Theresa May welcomes Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to Stormont House. pic.twitter.com/YjD1UiMuKf  UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) February 12, 2018

Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has said he is very hopeful of a powersharing agreement being reached this week.

After a series of talks involving the leaders of Sinn Fein and the DUP, the Irish leader said there was a lot of work to do but progress was going in the right direction.

Democratic Unionist leader Arlene Foster said earlier the tone of the talks had been very good and Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said the two parties were close to an agreement.

Mr Varadkar said: We are very hopeful that those two parties are able to come to an agreement this week.Taoiseah Leo Varadkar has said his trip to Belfast on Monday was "not wasted," as talks on restoring the Stormont institutions broke up without agreement.

Mr Varadkar said he had travelled to Belfast to help support a deal being made.

"It was an opportunity to visit Belfast which is always nice as well as an opportunity to meet the Prime Minister and the other parties which is always important," he said.

"We have to be patient... if the Executive is to get up and running then there has to be an accommodation between the DUP and Sinn Fein."

He said he had not met with the DUP on Monday as it has internal meetings. Tanaiste Simon Coveney said there shouldn't be too much read into the failure of the two sides to meet.

"But the sounding from both Arlene Foster and Mary Lou McDonald are good and hopefully they can find an accommodation," Mr Varadkar added.

"We will support whatever agreement can be made... that does not necessarily mean we have to return for any deal."

Asked why it had taken him 13 months to go to Stormont himself, he said he had been present through his teams during the course of the Stormont political deadlock.

Simon Coveney said having both Mr Varadkar and Mrs May in Belfast showed the partnership they had in endeavouring to get agreement.

He said he hoped there had been a level of trust between the two parties and the two governments.

"Everyone wants to see devolved government. It is fundamental to agreement and to peace," he added.

"Over past two weeks we have seen move towards trying to find common ground in different areas... we are not quite there yet.

"There were two difficult elections in Northern Ireland last year and they were very polarising.

"There has been a long negotiation part of that has been difficult at time and there has been added pressure because of Brexit which has made live more difficult.Snow lies on Tan Hill in North Yorkshire, as others parts of the country are bracing themselves for wintry showers. Steve Parsons/PA Wire

Cars drive through snow on the A26 in Ballymena, Co Antrim, as blizzard conditions are set to sweep in, bringing "a real taste of winter to the whole of the UK". Niall Carson/PA Wire

A dog walker in the snow in Ballymena, Co Antrim, as blizzard conditions are set to sweep in, bringing "a real taste of winter to the whole of the UK". Niall Carson/PA Wire

Snow covers a road sign in Greenloaning, near Stirling, as blizzard conditions are set to bring "a real taste of winter to the whole of the UK". Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

Sheep in the snow in Ballymena, Co Antrim, as blizzard conditions are set to sweep in, bringing "a real taste of winter to the whole of the UK". Niall Carson/PA Wire

Snow on the outskirts of Armoy in Northern Ireland. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press

Snow on the outskirts of Armoy in Northern Ireland. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press

Drivers battle through the snow on the outskirts of Armoy in Northern Ireland. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press

A farmer battles through the snow on the outskirts of Armoy in Northern Ireland. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press

Walkers threw the Snow on the Outskirts of Armoy in Northern Ireland, as snow fall hits across the country with more expected. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press

This is a view from my window in Rathfriland, the Mournes at the far back left of the picture. Submitted by Lucy Barry - January 2017

Our spectacular Thursday afternoon drive around Giants Causeway. Submitted by Sharon Saverin & TJ Abraham. January 2017

Jonathan Sims took this photo at Katesbridge. Submitted Jan 2017

Our spectacular Thursday afternoon drive around Giants Causeway. Submitted by Sharon Saverin & TJ Abraham. January 2017

Loving the snow are my pups Murphy, Lexi and Dexter. Submitted by Kathy Mackin-Jackson, from Armagh. Jan 2017.

Loving the snow are my pups Murphy, Lexi and Dexter. Submitted by Kathy Mackin-Jackson, from Armagh. Jan 2017.

Snow begins to fall on the Stormont Estate in east Belfast. Picture by Jonathan Porter/Press Eye

Snow begins to fall on the Stormont Estate in east Belfast. Picture by Jonathan Porter/Press Eye

Snow begins to fall on the Stormont Estate in east Belfast. Picture by Jonathan Porter/Press Eye

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Snow falls in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Snow falls in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Young Boys play in the snow in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Salting the foot patch as Snow falls in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Snow time in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Snow falls in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

People make their way to work as snow falls over Belfast. Picture Colm O'Reilly

People make their way to work as snow falls over Belfast. Picture Colm O'Reilly

Snow has fallen over Belfast. Tourists have their pictures taken in the snow at Clarendon dock Belfast. Picture Colm O'Reilly

People make their way to work as snow falls over Belfast. Picture Colm O'Reilly

People make their way to work as snow falls over Belfast. Picture Colm O'Reilly

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Eoin Donnelly plays football in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Walking the dogs in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Children Ruben and Zara McGlinchey , Nathan McCann and Shea McLaughlin enjoying the snow in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 A dog enjoying the snow in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press Belfast 08-12-2017: Heavy snow showers overnight have led to disruption across parts of Northern Ireland. Dozens of schools have been closed due to the wintery conditions. The snowfall means an unexpected day off for some young people. Police are advising road users to use extreme caution on the roads. Patrick Morgan pictured enjoying the snow. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker.

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Children Ruben and Zara McGlinchey enjoying the snow in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press Belfast 08-12-2017: Heavy snow showers overnight have led to disruption across parts of Northern Ireland. Dozens of schools have been closed due to the wintery conditions. The snowfall means an unexpected day off for some young people. Police are advising road users to use extreme caution on the roads. Patrick Morgan pictured enjoying the snow. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker.

Pacemaker Press Belfast 08-12-2017: Heavy snow showers overnight have led to disruption across parts of Northern Ireland. Dozens of schools have been closed due to the wintery conditions. The snowfall means an unexpected day off for some young people. Police are advising road users to use extreme caution on the roads. Snow in North Belfast. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker.

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Battling threw the snow on Divis Mountain in Co Antrim , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Children Ruben and Zara McGlinchey , Nathan McCann and Shea McLaughlin enjoying the snow in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

General views of Snow in Belfast on December 8th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Battling threw the snow on Divis Mountain in Co Antrim , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 A Snow Man on Divis Mountain in Co Antrim , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press Belfast 08-12-2017: Heavy snow showers overnight have led to disruption across parts of Northern Ireland. Dozens of schools have been closed due to the wintery conditions. The snowfall means an unexpected day off for some young people. Police are advising road users to use extreme caution on the roads. Paul and Ollie Forbes pictured enjoying the snow. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker.

General views of Snow in Belfast on December 8th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 A Snow Man on Divis Mountain in Co Antrim , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 A dog enjoying the snow in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Children Ruben and Zara McGlinchey , Nathan McCann and Shea McLaughlin enjoying the snow in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press Belfast 08-12-2017: Heavy snow showers overnight have led to disruption across parts of Northern Ireland. Dozens of schools have been closed due to the wintery conditions. The snowfall means an unexpected day off for some young people. Police are advising road users to use extreme caution on the roads. Anne Curley pictured enjoying the snow. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker.

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 A dog enjoying the snow in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 Four-year-old Noah Adams enjoys the snow at Stormont in east Belfast as it continues to lie across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 A view of Stormont from the Castlereigh Hills outside Belfast as snow continues to lie across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 A view of Stormont from the Castlereigh Hills outside Belfast as snow continues to lie across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 Faith Adams(4) and Gracie Worth(7) enjoy the snow at Stormont in east Belfast as it continues to lie across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 Four-year-old Noah Adams enjoys the snow at Stormont in east Belfast as it continues to lie across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 Snow continues to lie across Northern Ireland as this robin red breast is pictured in the Fourwinds area outside Belfast. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 Children enjoy the snow at Stormont in east Belfast as it continues to lie across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 A man walks his dog in Fourwinds outside Belfast as snow continues to lie across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

10/12/17 PACEMAKER PRESS People make the best of the snow in the grounds of Stormont. Brian Buckley with his two children Finn and Jenna take their sled out. PICTURE MATT BOHILL PACEMAKER PRESS

10/12/17 PACEMAKER PRESS People make the best of the snow in the grounds of Stormont. PICTURE MATT BOHILL PACEMAKER PRESS

10/12/17 PACEMAKER PRESS People make the best of the snow in the grounds of Stormont. PICTURE MATT BOHILL PACEMAKER PRESS

10/12/17 PACEMAKER PRESS People make the best of the snow in the grounds of Stormont. PICTURE MATT BOHILL PACEMAKER PRESS

10/12/17 PACEMAKER PRESS People make the best of the snow in the grounds of Stormont. PICTURE MATT BOHILL PACEMAKER PRESS

PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 9/12/2017: Teal-Bella Alexander from Bangor has fun in the snow at the Enchanted Winter Garden which opened on Saturday in Antrim's Castle Gardens. The annual Christmas event is now in it's fifth season. Enchanted Winter Garden is running to 20 December in Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim. For event information and tickets visit www.enchantedwintergarden.com PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON

PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 9/12/2017: Sarah and Ethan Gillespie from Limavady have fun in the snow at the Enchanted Winter Garden which opened on Saturday in Antrim's Castle Gardens. The annual Christmas event is now in it's fifth season. Enchanted Winter Garden is running to 20 December in Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim. For event information and tickets visit www.enchantedwintergarden.com PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON

PACEMAKER, BELFAST, 9/12/2017: Ella and Bobby McMullan from Aghalee have fun in the snow at the Enchanted Winter Garden which opened on Saturday in Antrim's Castle Gardens. The annual Christmas event is now in it's fifth season. Enchanted Winter Garden is running to 20 December in Antrim Castle Gardens, Antrim. For event information and tickets visit www.enchantedwintergarden.com PICTURE BY STEPHEN DAVISON

Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 9th December 2017 Children enjoy the recent snow fall at Stormont in east Belfast. Jack (5) sledges down the hill at parliament buildings. Mandatory Credit Matt Mackey / Presseye.com

Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 9th December 2017 Children enjoy the recent snow fall at Stormont in east Belfast. Jack (5) sledges down the hill at parliament buildings. Mandatory Credit Matt Mackey / Presseye.com

Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 9th December 2017 Children enjoy the recent snow fall at Stormont in east Belfast. Mia (10) pictured at parliament buildings. Mandatory Credit Matt Mackey / Presseye.com

Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 9th December 2017 Children enjoy the recent snow fall at Stormont in east Belfast. Mia (10) pictured at parliament buildings. Mandatory Credit Matt Mackey / Presseye.com

Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 9th December 2017 Children enjoy the recent snow fall at Stormont in east Belfast. Jack (5) along with his sister Mia (10) and friend Rachel (11) pictured at parliament buildings. Mandatory Credit Matt Mackey / Presseye.com

Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 9th December 2017 Children enjoy the recent snow fall at Stormont in east Belfast. Jack (5) sledges down the hill at parliament buildings. Mandatory Credit Matt Mackey / Presseye.com

Presseye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 9th December 2017 Children enjoy the recent snow fall at Stormont in east Belfast. Mandatory Credit Matt Mackey / Presseye.com

Snow in Ballymena, Co Antrim, as blizzard conditions are set to sweep in, bringing "a real taste of winter to the whole of the UK". Niall Carson/PA Wire

Snow covers a fence in Greenloaning, near Stirling, as blizzard conditions are set to bring "a real taste of winter to the whole of the UK". Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Snow time in Crumlin , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 08/12/2017 Battling threw the snow on Divis Mountain in Co Antrim , as heavy snow falls across Northern Ireland on Friday morning, leaving difficult driving conditions for motorists and some schools closed. Pic Colm Lenaghan/ Pacemaker

Walkers trudge through the Snow on the Outskirts of Armoy in Northern Ireland. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th January 2018 Vehicles on the M1 outside Belfast as the Met Office upgrades its warning for snow and ice from yellow to amber across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye

16/1/2018 A rear wheel drive BMW cant make its way through the icy roads in Lisburn. Mandatory Credit  Stephen Hamilton

16/1/2018 Horses pictured at Divis mountain in Belfast during a fall of snow. Mandatory Credit  Stephen Hamilton

16/1/2018 Peter Wachs pictured at Divis mountain in Belfast during a heavy fall of snow with dogs Muppet and Lulu Mandatory Credit  Stephen Hamilton

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 16th January 2018 Vehicles on the M1 outside Belfast as the Met Office upgrades its warning for snow and ice from yellow to amber across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye

Peter Wachs from Belfast out with dog Muppet at Divis Mountain. Mandatory Credit  Stephen Hamilton

Heavy snow has caused widespread travel disruption in Northern Ireland, with bus and rail services affected and some roads closed.

Horses as Snow falls near Divis on the outskirts of West Belfast in Co Antrim on Tuesday , as heavy snow falls across the country. Pic Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker

General view of a Transit van which skidded off the road on the Hannahstown hill. Mandatory Credit  Stephen Hamilton

Rush hour traffic on the Ballygowan Road in east Belfast after snow fell across Northern Ireland overnight. - 17th January 2018

Vehicles on the M1 outside Belfast. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye

General views of Snow in Belfast on December 8th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

Press Eye Belfast - Northern Ireland 10th December 2017 A view of Belfast from the Castlereigh Hills as snow continues to lie across Northern Ireland. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye.com

Northern Ireland has been issued with a further weather warning for snow and ice.

The warning will impact much of the region.

A band of heavy rain will spread eastwards during Tuesday morning, quickly turning to snow on high level routes above 300 metres.

The Met Office has reported that snow levels in lower grounds will be more variable with a few centimetres possible in some places while others will just see sleet and rain.

The warning is in place between 2am and 10am on Tuesday.Billionaire investor George Soros is to pump a further 100,000 into the anti-Brexit campaign.

The move comes after Mr Soros drew fire from Brexiteers when it emerged he was donating 400,000 to the campaign group Best for Britain to try and halt withdrawal from the EU.

The group has now revealed Mr Soross OFS Foundation has also pledged to match crowd-funding to it of up to 100,000.

The groups CEO Eloise Todd said Brexit could still be stopped by a meaningful vote in Parliament.

The UKs future with the EU is not a done deal, there is still a vote to come and people across the country deserve to know the truth about the options on the table: one of which is staying and leading in the EU.

Hungarian-born Mr Soros, one of the worlds richest men who made a billion dollars betting against sterling on Black Wednesday in 1992, accused critics of a maligning him, telling The Guardian: I am happy to take the fight to those who have tried to use a smear campaign, not arguments, to prop up their failing case.

The move followed Justice Secretary David Gauke insisting there is no plot to gag Cabinet members who want a softer Brexit.

The remarks came after it emerged the three leading Cabinet Brexiteers will all give keynote speeches on the UKs EU withdrawal stance, but Chancellor Philip Hammond will not take part in the co-ordinated bid to set out the Governments position.

Mr Gauke told ITVs Peston on Sunday: He is not part of the set of speeches that have been outlined today, but that doesnt mean that the Chancellor is not expressing his views both internally in the Cabinet conversations, but also externally.

So, I dont think that there really is anything in this, that this is somehow any kind of plot to gag a particular faction of ministers. I dont think thats a fair characterisation at all.

#Peston asks @DavidGauke, has the PM silenced her Chancellor when it comes to Brexit? pic.twitter.com/ioUYzkMOgG  Peston (@itvpeston) February 11, 2018

In a bid to regain the initiative on Brexit after a rocky few weeks during which Cabinet tensions came to the surface, Prime Minister Theresa May is set to make two keynote addresses.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, Brexit Secretary David Davis, and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox will also deliver speeches, but the only minister who backed Remain taking part in the project is Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington.

Mr Johnson will kick-off the Brexit blitz on Wednesday, Valentines Day, with a call for unity over Brexit.

Mrs May will deliver a major speech on post-Brexit UK-EU security in Germany next Saturday, and will round off the process in about three weeks time with a keynote address on the overall relationship, following a special away day summit of the Cabinet withdrawal committee at Chequers.

However, Tory tensions remained to the fore as former minister and leading rebel Anna Soubry delivered a warning to the PM.

Parliament is not a bystander in the Brexit process, and will not give government a blank cheque. We will get a meaningful vote, and MPs across parties are willing to vote against the government if the deal is against the interests of our constituents. pic.twitter.com/qZXeEqtjsg  ChukaUmunna (@ChukaUmunna) February 11, 2018

Asked if she believed there is a majority in the House of Commons to defeat the kind of Brexit the Prime Minister wants, Ms Soubry told BBC1s The Andrew Marr Show: If shes not careful, yes.

Pressed on whether she thought Brexit will definitely happen, Ms Soubry, who appeared on the programme with pro-Europe Labour MP Chuka Umunna, said: Will it definitely happen? I genuinely dont know what is going to happen.

When Mr Marr suggested that Ms Soubry is closer in her politics to Mr Umunna than she is to Jacob Rees-Mogg, she said: Im not denying that.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt said the series of withdrawal speeches would set out a Brexit vision.

She told The Andrew Marr Show: What the public want is, they want the vision and they want some meat on the bones.

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Ms Mordaunt insisted she believed a transition period was a given despite claims to the contrary by EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier.

She said: What I would say to the public is that, actually, the other nations involved in this are very pragmatic and have not been impressed with some of the language that the (European) Commission has used.

Asked if it was a Government red line to not have to grant full rights to EU migrants who come to Britain during a transition period, Ms Mordaunt said: It is what we are setting out in our position. Again, all of this is a negotiation.Businesses are enjoying a strong start to the year despite mounting uncertainty over Brexit, driving an expected increase in economic output, according to new research.

A study by business advisors BDO LLP suggested that the UK can expect GDP growth of around its long-term trend of 2% in the early part of 2018.

The services sector has seen an improving performance, linked to the pickup in the global economy and better than expected consumer spending in the UK, said the report.

We need the government to align quickly and communicate its Brexit planPeter Hemington, BDO LLP

Record high employment levels look set to continue early in the first half of the year, although further increases in prices could be on the horizon for UK consumers, said BDO.

Peter Hemington, a partner at BDO LLP said: British businesses have made a strong start to 2018 despite the ongoing uncertainty about our nations future outside of the EU.

However, if the government continues to stall on providing a clear Brexit strategy for businesses, the performance of UK firms will suffer.

We need the government to align quickly and communicate its Brexit plan. It is crucial so that UK businesses can make informed investments to best prepare for the future.Oxfam faces an inquiry from the charity watchdog in the wake of the aid worker sex scandal which resulted in the resignation of one of the charitys most senior figures.

The charity has issued an unreserved apology to the Government, donors, supporters and the people of Haiti following the revelations.

Announcing her resignation as deputy chief executive, Penny Lawrence said she took full responsibility for what had happened on her watch and was sorry for the harm and distress it had caused supporters, as the charity faced a battle to rebuild the public trust following crisis talks with the Government over future funding.

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Oxfam has faced intense criticism over its handling of sex allegations, including the use of prostitutes by workers in Haiti in 2011.

The Charity Commission launched its investigation after examining documents provided by Oxfam.

@ChtyCommission statement in response to concerns raised in the media about Oxfam: https://t.co/MbS2EDFiD0 pic.twitter.com/l2GAOfEzHu  Charity Commission (@ChtyCommission) February 12, 2018

The watchdog said Oxfam may not have fully and frankly disclosed material details about the allegations at the time in 2011 and it also had concerns about its handling of the incidents since, and the impact that these have both had on public trust and confidence.

The commissions deputy chief executive David Holdsworth said: Charities and dedicated, hard-working aid workers undertake vital, lifesaving work in some of the most difficult circumstances across the world.

However, the issues revealed in recent days are shocking and unacceptable. It is important that we take this urgent step to ensure that these matters can be dealt with fully and robustly.

The commissions inquiry came as:

 Helen Evans, Oxfams former global head of safeguarding, told Channel 4 News she begged senior staff, ministers and the regulator to act about the sexual abuse allegations.

 International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt told Oxfam they must now demonstrate the moral leadership necessary to address this scandal, rebuild the trust of the British public, their staff and the people they aim to help, and deliver progress on these assurances.

 Oxfams chief executive Mark Goldring said he would not stand down unless the charitys board told him they had lost faith in his leadership.

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Ms Evans detailed three new allegations made against Oxfam staff overseas in a single day.

She said: There was one of a woman being coerced to have sex in a humanitarian response by another aid worker, another case where a woman had been coerced in exchange for aid and another one where it had come to our attention where a member of staff had been struck off for sexual abuse and hadnt disclosed that, and we were then concerned about what he might be doing, and that was three allegations in one day.

Mr Goldring apologised to Ms Evans over the way her concerns were handled.

He told Channel 4 News: I certainly apologise for not acting fast enough, I think we did take them seriously and we responded on many different fronts  the records checking was one of them, training was another, the promotion of the helpline was another  she did some great work.

I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibilityPenny Lawrence, former Oxfam deputy chief executive

What I recognise now, with the severity of issues as they have emerged, is that we should have resourced that team up faster as we now have, indeed, done.

He said he would not resign as he was not in the post in 2011, and added: But if our board turn round and say actually you are not the right person to lead forward then I of course would resign immediately.

Following a meeting between Oxfam bosses and International Development Secretary Ms Mordaunt, the minister said: I was clear that part of an organisations moral leadership comes from individuals taking responsibility for their actions.

The charitys chair of trustees Caroline Thomson said Oxfam unreservedly apologised to her (Ms Mordaunt) as well as to our supporters, donors and the people of Haiti for the things that happened in our name.

Oxfam is in total agreement with the Secretary of States further proposals. We recognise that we have some way to go to persuade her that we have the right moral leadership to be fully entrusted with public money. But we are committed to working with her, DFID and the Charity Commission to prove we can meet her expectations.

PRESS RELEASE: Oxfam announces resignation of Deputy Chief Executive https://t.co/s7wNu70B60  Oxfam News Team (@oxfamgbpress) February 12, 2018

Announcing her resignation, Ms Lawrence said: As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility.

I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfams supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us.

The resignation comes after claims on Monday that the charity was aware of concerns about the conduct of two of the men at the centre of the allegations in Haiti when they worked previously in Chad.

We at @oxfamgb commit to further improvements in aftermath of Haiti reports . Oxfam GB https://t.co/nClCrIUflW via @po_st  Mark Goldring (@Mark_Goldring1) February 11, 2018

The charity received 31.7 million in Government funding in 2016/17, but the support has been put at risk by the scandal.

Four members of Oxfam staff were dismissed and three, including the country director  Roland van Hauwermeiren, resigned before the end of the 2011 investigation.

According to The Times, Oxfam knew about concerns over the conduct of Mr van Hauwermeiren and another man when they worked in Chad before they were given senior roles in Haiti.Protesters are claiming victory after contractors were prevented from working on an elm which has become one of the symbols of the long-running battle over street tree felling in Sheffield.

Around 40 people with banners ringed the Chelsea Road Elm, in the Nether Edge area of the city, on Monday as a team arrived to prune the tree.

After a short stand-off and a conversation between the protesters and an executive of contractors, Amey, the workers left.

Sheffield City Council said it was incredibly disappointing that a number of individuals sought to unlawfully prevent essential safety work.

The protesters say the tree is a rare Huntingdon Elm which survived Dutch Elm Disease.

In 2016, it came runner-up in a Woodland Trust Tree of the Year poll.

All sides agree it is home to a colony of endangered White-Letter Hairstreak Butterfly and Amey  the firm running the councils contract which includes street tree maintenance  is planning to relocate the insects eggs.

Amey account director Darren Butt was told by protesters: We are not prepared to let you do any work today in preparation for the council felling this tree.

Mr Butt said he was not there to fell the tree and no date had yet been fixed for the felling.

@sheffieldgreens @helenpidd @JayMitchinson @patrick_barkham @CarolineLucas

Amey boss told crowd that if they didnat let them remove eggs of rare butterfly they will fell tree. Lose white letter hairstreak and rare healthy elm. Ecovandals! All for a smooth pavement. pic.twitter.com/xKjZZkdzz8  Alison Teal (@alisonclareteal) February 12, 2018

In a statement on the Sheffield Tree Action Groups Facebook page, Heather Russell said: Amey said they planned to remove a dead branch and remove the eggs of the endangered White-Letter Hairstreak Butterfly and attempt to re-locate them to a different tree. A colony of White-Letter Hairstreak Butterfly have never been successfully transplanted before.

Councillor Bryan Lodge, cabinet member for Environment and Street Scene at Sheffield City Council, said: It is incredibly disappointing that a number of individuals sought to unlawfully prevent essential safety works being carried out on an elm tree on Chelsea Road today.

The tree, which is showing signs of significant decay, has to be pruned as in its current state of deterioration, it is causing a safety risk to members of the public.

Mr Lodge said the council has worked with Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust and Butterfly Conservation on a plan to safeguard the butterflies.

He said: We only need a strong gust of wind for a branch to fall off the tree and cause serious harm to a person or nearby property and we simply cannot allow this to happen.

The stand-off is just the latest in the ongoing and long-running dispute that has its origin in a 25-year 2.2 billion private finance initiative agreement the council signed with Amey in 2009.

The contract includes a huge programme to resurface thousands of miles of Sheffields pothole-ridden road system and, as part of this, Amey is tasked with maintaining roadside trees.

The council says only a small proportion of the citys 36,000 street trees are being removed because they are diseased or dangerous, but protesters say many of the trees are being felled simply because their roots are getting in the way of resurfacing methods.An ejector seat manufacturer will be sentenced for breaching health and safety law after the death of Red Arrows pilot Sean Cunningham (MoD/Crown Copyright)

One of the worlds leading ejector seat manufacturers who admitted breaching health and safety law over the death of a Red Arrows pilot is to be sentenced.

Martin-Baker Aircraft Ltd director John Martin pleaded guilty on behalf of the Middlesex-based company to their part in the death of Flight Lieutenant Sean Cunningham at a hearing on January 22.

The 35-year-old was fatally injured after being ejected from his Hawk T1 aircraft while on the ground at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire on November 8 2011.

Martin-Bakers priority has and will always be the safety of the aircrew who sit on the companys seatsCompany statement

The parachute on the Mark 10B ejector seat did not deploy and the South African-born airman died later in hospital.

In a statement released after pleading guilty to a breach of Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the company said: Martin-Bakers priority has and will always be the safety of the aircrew who sit on the companys seats.

The firm said it had been designing and manufacturing ejection seats for 73 years and in that time these ejection seats have been flown by 92 air forces, with over 17,000 seats currently in use.

Martin-Baker Aircraft Ltd will be sentenced at Lincoln Crown Court in a two-day hearing which will start on Monday.Heathrow has reported its busiest ever January, with 5.8 million passengers travelling through the airport.

Numbers were up by 1.1% on January last year, with increases for 15 months in a row.

Heathrow expansion will provide the global trading routes to supercharge Britains economy John Holland-Kaye

Domestic flights were a key driver for growth, with UK flights up by 6.9% last month, although freight travelling through Heathrow also hit record levels, with 133,000 tonnes going through the airport in January.

Heathrow chief executive John Holland-Kaye said: Heathrow is off to a flying start, with record passenger numbers and cargo volumes and the start of our public consultation on the third runway.

Heathrow expansion will provide the global trading routes to supercharge Britains economy as we leave the EU.The family of Jagtar Singh Johal joined MP Martin Docherty-Hughes and Josie Fathers to mark 100 days since he was arrested in India (Paul Ward/PA)

The family of a Scottish Sikh man detained in India without charge say they do not feel safe to travel to the country.

Jagtar Singh Johal, 31, has now spent 100 days in custody since he was arrested in Punjab on November 4, shortly after his wedding.

Indian authorities allege Mr Johal, who was born and brought up in Glasgow, was involved in financing the killing of Hindu leaders but he has not been formally charged with any offence.

Speaking in Glasgow on Monday, Gurpreet Singh Johal said his brother, known as Jaggi, was a friendly, bubbly person, who should be enjoying the happiest time of his life after his wedding.

The family of Jagtat Singh Johal, detained in India without charge, mark 100 days of their #FreeJaggiNow campaign by calling for new UK intervention pic.twitter.com/ReHqkcSv2R  Paul Ward (@paulward21) February 12, 2018

Gurpreet said: Various allegations have been made against Jaggi that he has been accused of funding right-wing murders, however no evidence has been provided in relation to any of this.

No charge sheet has been filed and 100 days on we are still waiting to hear what exactly Jaggi has been charged with.

We are also concerned that the UK Government are not able to protect its citizens. Jaggi has been subject to third degree torture, extreme action was promised but its not been taken.

On November 7 the chief minister of Punjab stated they had all the evidence but 100 days on it still isnt clear.

Its ended any right to a fair trial, 100 days have elapsed and they have sought another 90 days so its causing concern of whats actually going on.

Gurpreet said his brother may have translated documents to English for a website about the 1984 Golden Temple massacre of Sikhs, but there was no evidence of the alleged crimes.

He said: It appears that (the police) may have got the wrong person but to save face they keep on going down this route of keeping him as long as they can and glorifying some of these allegations in order to keep him there longer.

Gurpreet travelled to India with another family member shortly after his brother was arrested but they were forced to leave the country.

He said: Our lives became at risk so we had to leave on November 9, not by choice, but it was going to cause more grief for the family.

Right now I dont think its safe for me to go.

The case has been raised with the United Nations through human rights organisation Redress.

Advocacy officer Josie Fathers said: Jagtars treatment to date raises concerns about the chances of him being subject to further torture and ill treatment.

He remains without charge and has been virtually isolated from the outside world.

In December, Redress urged UN special rapporteur on torture to intervene in Jagtars case to ensure that he is protected from ill treatment.

When there are strong allegations of torture the special rapporteur has the power to request the government of India that any alleged ill treatment is stopped and investigated.

We continue to urge him to intervene and hope there is progress ahead of the Human Rights Council in March.

MP Martin Docherty-Hughes, who represents the constituency of the Johal family home in Dumbarton, has been working with cross-party colleagues to highlight Mr Johals case.

He said the FCO needs to up its game in terms of consular assistance, claiming support for Mr Johal was remiss, especially at the beginning.

He added: The longer it goes without charge the Indian authorities leave themselves open to accusation of undermining an open and fair trial.

An FCO spokesman said: Our staff continue to support a British man and his family following his detention in Punjab.

We continue to press the Indian authorities for further access to ensure he can receive the necessary consular assistance.Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn speaks at a campaign rally at the Shottstown Miners Welfare Hall, Penicuik, Midlothian (Jane Barlow/PA)

Jeremy Corbyn has said racist and homophobic remarks by a Labour MP were completely wrong.

The Labour leader was asked if the party plans to suspend Hugh Gaffney, who is reported to have made a joke about Robert Burns not being bent, and to have used a racist term when referring to a Chinese meal.

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Mr Corbyn said: He has apologised for what he has said and has been reprimanded for that.

He is undertaking the appropriate equality and diversity training and indeed he has met and talked to people in the Chinese community and is meeting other communities as well.

What he said is completely wrong, of course, but he has recognised and understood that and apologised and thats what weve done.

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Scottish Labour has said it will develop a new anti-discrimination policy following the incident involving Mr Gaffney, who represents Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill.

It comes after Labour MSP Anas Sarwar, who lost the leadership contest to Richard Leonard, claimed an elected councillor had told him he could not back him because he was a brown, Muslim Paki.

Mr Corbyn was questioned about Mr Gaffney as he arrived at Shottstown Miners Welfare Club in Penicuik to give a speech as part of a campaign tour in Scotland.

During the speech, he predicted the collapse of the Conservatives and the rise of a Labour government.

He said: I want us to win a general election. This summer we showed what we can do. We came together as a party.

He added: Well challenge these Tories at some point they are going to collapse  over Brexit, over something, I dont know they fight over so many things its hard to tell which one its going to be.

Campaigning today in Penicuik ward in Midlothian for Vivienne Wallace who is Labour's candidate for the 22 March by-election. She'll be a great councillor and follow in the proud footsteps of the late Adam Montgomery. pic.twitter.com/K0Fg51ClDb  Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) February 12, 2018

He mentioned the collapse of outsourcing giant Carillion and said privatisation is a rip off calling for Royal Mail, the railways and water companies to be taken into public ownership.

He criticised the SNP for being a conveyor belt for Tory cuts and criticised Nicola Sturgeons partys record on education, saying they had lost a lot of college places.

Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard told the audience: We need a Labour government in power. We need Jeremy Corbyn as a Labour Prime Minster. We need Labour in power in the Scottish Parliament again.

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He said the Labour Party is being rebuilt and characterised its opposition to the SNP as a battle of ideas between socialism and nationalism.

He added: The dividing line between Labour and the SNP is and shall be one of left versus right.

It is and shall be a division between a party that wants to cut poverty and stamp out inequality and a party that wants to cut local services and stamp out dissent.

The leaders were heckled on equal pay as an audience member called for an apology for treatment of Glasgow City Council women workers as he said the former Labour council had spent hundreds of thousands defending equal pay claims.

Mr Leonard said he had also campaigned for equal pay at the time.Oxfams deputy chief executive has quit in the wake of the aid worker sex scandal saying she was ashamed of what had happened.

Penny Lawrence said she took full responsibility for what had happened on her watch and was sorry for the harm and distress it had caused supporters.

Oxfam has faced intense criticism over its handling of sex allegations, including the use of prostitutes by workers in Haiti in 2011.

Ms Lawrence said: As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility.

PRESS RELEASE: Oxfam announces resignation of Deputy Chief Executive https://t.co/s7wNu70B60  Oxfam News Team (@oxfamgbpress) February 12, 2018

The resignation comes after claims on Monday that the charity was aware of concerns about the conduct of two of the men at the centre of the allegations in Haiti when they worked previously in Chad.

Ms Lawrence said: Over the last few days we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed to adequately act upon. It is now clear that these allegations  involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad  were raised before he moved to Haiti.

She added: I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfams supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us.

Oxfam chiefs were called in for crisis talks with International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt following the claims of sexual misconduct by its staff.

Ms Mordaunt said on Sunday the charity had lied and failed in its moral leadership by failing to fully disclose details of its investigation into the misconduct to relevant authorities.

We at @oxfamgb commit to further improvements in aftermath of Haiti reports . Oxfam GB https://t.co/nClCrIUflW via @po_st  Mark Goldring (@Mark_Goldring1) February 11, 2018

The charity received 31.7 million in Government funding in 2016/17 but the support has been put at risk by the scandal.

Charity Commission director of investigations Michelle Russell said the watchdog was not told the full story at the time Oxfam first investigated allegations of misconduct in 2011.

She told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: Weve made very clear that had the details of what has come out over the last few days been told to us, we would have dealt with this very differently.

We were categorically told there was no abuse of beneficiaries involved in the allegations. Nor were we told that there were issues or possible issues around possible crimes, including those involving minors.

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Four members of Oxfam staff were dismissed and three, including the country director, Roland van Hauwermeiren, resigned before the end of the 2011 investigation.

According to The Times, Oxfam knew about concerns over the conduct of Mr van Hauwermeiren and another man when they worked in Chad before they were given senior roles in Haiti.

Mr Van Hauwermeirens attitudes and behaviour towards women were documented, it said.

He also reportedly allowed the other man, a Kenyan, to stay in his job despite handling at least four complaints of sexual harassment or misconduct against him.

Oxfam chief executive Mark Goldring said: I deeply respect Pennys decision to accept personal responsibility. Like us, she is appalled at what happened and is determined to do what is best for Oxfam and the people we exist to help.

I would like to place on record my sincere thanks for the years of dedicated service that Penny has given to Oxfam and the fight against poverty around the world.Liam Colgan has not been seen since the early hours of Saturday in Hamburg (Find Liam Colgan/PA)

Friends and family are searching for a Scottish man who went missing in Hamburg during a stag do.

Liam Colgan was last seen in the early hours of Saturday morning in the German city.

He had organised the trip for around 18 people ahead of his brothers wedding in March.

The 29-year-old has not been seen since 1.30am on Saturday in the Hamborger Veermaster bar in the Reeperbahn area.

Police became involved in the search when he failed to show up for activities on the Saturday afternoon.

Liam Colgan is missing in Hamburg  please help to find him!Scottish National, Liam Colgan (aged 29) was last seen at Posted by Help find Liam Colgan on Sunday, February 11, 2018

Alan Pearson, who was on the trip, told BBC Radio Scotland: It was towards the end of the night that Liam became separated from the group, but nobody realised at the time, given the nature of the event. It was hard to keep tabs on everyone.

Having retraced our steps and spoken to bar staff in the last bar he was seen in, we understand that he left a few minutes before the rest of the group.

He added: Hes not done anything like this before. You might often hear in appeals like this that the behaviour is completely out of character and that is absolutely the truth in this case.

When he didnt turn up for activities he had planned in the afternoon we knew something was amiss there so we pressed the police to assist and were eventually able to get an investigation started on Sunday morning.

Mr Colgans brother and father have remained in Hamburg along with a few others to continue the search, while friends at home have been helping by contacting hospitals in the city. The Foreign Office is also in contact with German police.

A Facebook page titled Help find Liam Colgan has been created with appeals in English and German.

It said: Liam, is the best man for his brother Eamonn Colgan and is responsible for organising the Stag Do to Hamburg, Germany.

Eamonn is due to marry his fiance Susan in three weeks time back in Scotland so we are launching an urgent appeal to find Liam.

Mr Colgan is around 6ft with a slim build and ginger hair. When last seen, he was wearing a brown leather jacket and a grey hoodie.

A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: We are in contact with the German police after a British man was reported missing in Hamburg, Germany.

We are providing advice and assistance to his family.Scottish Secretary David Mundell will visit Hong Kong and Japan this week to strengthen trade links withing Scotland and the UK.

Mr Mundell will meet senior political and business figures on his five-day trip during which he aims to promote Scotland as a good place for investment, business and study.

In Hong Kong, Mr Mundell will meet Scottish companies seeking to develop business interests in Hong Kong and the region, Scottish students studying at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and meet winners of the annual UK Governments Hong Kong FinTech Awards.

During his visit to Japan, he will meet with life sciences investors, host a round-table with Japanese MPs on LGBT issues, and meet with senior Government ministers.

Scotlands skills, products and services are highly regarded globally, and we can build on that as we leave the EU and strike ambitious new trade deals around the world.David Mundell

Mr Mundell said: Scotland has long established connections with Hong Kong and Japan and I am looking forward to building on those ties and forming new partnerships as I meet a variety of stakeholders throughout this trip  from businesses and opinion-formers to Scottish students abroad.

I am particularly keen to promote the UK Governments GREAT Festival of Innovation taking place in Hong Kong in March, offering the latest thinking on innovation across industry, society and community, building life-long partnerships.

I will also be promoting Scottish produce  such as Scottish craft gin which has been a global success story, and is extremely popular in Japan  and meeting with the Japanese investors in Scotland.

Scotlands skills, products and services are highly regarded globally, and we can build on that as we leave the EU and strike ambitious new trade deals around the world.Home Office concerns were overruled by the Prime Minister who insisted EU migrants coming to the UK during any withdrawal transition period would not be granted the automatic right to remain, according to reports.

Theresa Mays move went against warnings that it would be a struggle to create separate systems to register EU citizens already in Britain and new arrivals, The Times said.

The status of EU migrants arriving in the UK during the proposed transition period between March 2019 and December 2020 has become a flashpoint issue between London and Brussels in recent weeks.

Facing pressure from hardline Brexiteers, Mrs May has insisted that transition migrants could not expect the same treatment as the estimated 3.2 million EU nationals already resident in the UK, while Brussels has said all should be seen as equals.

The Number 10 stance has caused concern in the Home Office, with Government sources saying work on a separate registration scheme had barely begun and almost certainly would not be ready in time, according to the newspaper.

Downing Street and the Home Office declined to comment directly on the claims.

Constructive talks today with @MichelBarnier in Downing Street. Our teams will work intensively to agree an implementation period by March.  David Davis (@DavidDavisMP) February 5, 2018

A Home Office spokeswoman said: The Prime Minister has been clear that during the implementation period there will be a registration system for EU citizens coming to the UK.

The precise details of the implementation period are currently being negotiated with the EU, but planning is well under way.

The claims came as it emerged Billionaire investor George Soros is to pump a further 100,000 into the anti-Brexit campaign.

The move comes after Mr Soros drew fire from Brexiteers when it was revealed he was donating 400,000 to the campaign group Best for Britain to try to halt withdrawal from the EU.

The group revealed Mr Soross OFS Foundation has also pledged to match crowd-funding to it of up to 100,000.

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Best for Britain chief executive Eloise Todd said Brexit could still be stopped by a meaningful vote in Parliament.

The UKs future with the EU is not a done deal, there is still a vote to come and people across the country deserve to know the truth about the options on the table: one of which is staying and leading in the EU.

Hungarian-born Mr Soros, one of the worlds richest men who made a billion dollars betting against sterling on Black Wednesday in 1992, accused critics of a maligning him, telling The Guardian: I am happy to take the fight to those who have tried to use a smear campaign, not arguments, to prop up their failing case.

The move followed Justice Secretary David Gauke insisting there is no plot to gag Cabinet members who want a softer Brexit.

The remarks came after it emerged the three leading Cabinet Brexiteers will all give keynote speeches on the UKs EU withdrawal stance, but Chancellor Philip Hammond will not take part in the co-ordinated bid to set out the Governments position.

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Mr Gauke told ITVs Peston on Sunday: He is not part of the set of speeches that have been outlined today, but that doesnt mean that the Chancellor is not expressing his views both internally in the Cabinet conversations, but also externally.

So, I dont think that there really is anything in this, that this is somehow any kind of plot to gag a particular faction of ministers. I dont think thats a fair characterisation at all.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will kick-off the Brexit blitz on Wednesday, Valentines Day, with a call for unity over Brexit.

Mrs May will deliver a major speech on post-Brexit UK-EU security in Germany next Saturday, and will round off the process in about three weeks time with a keynote address on the overall relationship, following a special away day summit of the Cabinet withdrawal committee at Chequers.

Brexit Secretary David Davis and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox will also set out their agendas, but the only minister who backed the Remain campaign in the referendum involved in the process is Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington.South Africas deputy president has promised to conclude a power transition in which he would succeed Jacob Zuma, who faces widespread calls to resign because of corruption allegations.

Standing on the balcony of Cape Towns pillared City Hall, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa consolidated his control of the government on Sunday.

He delivered what amounted to a state of the nation address of the kind that President Zuma was unable to give as scheduled last week because of the leadership crisis in South Africa.

Mr Ramaphosa, Mr Zumas expected successor, set out a policy agenda for the year in his nationally televised speech, which marked the start of commemorations of the centenary of Nelson Mandelas birth on July 18 1918.

Then he referred to the topic that people really wanted to hear about  his confidential negotiations in recent days with Mr Zuma over the presidents exit after a scandal-marred tenure.

The ruling ANC partys national executive committee will discuss Mr Zumas fate at a meeting on Monday and because our people want this matter to be finalised, the national executive committee will be doing precisely that, Mr Ramaphosa said.

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He said his discussions with Mr Zuma had to be conducted with care and purpose and with the aim of uniting South Africans.

The political opposition criticised the private talks, saying the 75-year-old president may have been pressing for an exit package in exchange for his resignation.

The Democratic Alliance, the biggest opposition party, referred to unconfirmed media reports that Mr Zuma demanded a state security detail for himself and his family as well as payment by the state of his legal fees.

He must be prosecuted and, if found guilty, be locked up for his crimes, the Democratic Alliance said.

Mr Zuma denies wrongdoing, but he has been discredited by scandals, including multi-million-dollar upgrades to his private home that were paid by the state.

There has also been alleged looting of state enterprises by his associates and the possible reinstatement of corruption charges tied to an arms deal two decades ago.

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In his speech, the deputy president said the government will wage a relentless war against corruption and mismanagement of the resources of our country and that the justice system will punish the guilty.

Mr Ramaphosa, 65, joined Mr Zumas cabinet as deputy in 2014 and replaced the president as head of the African National Congress in December.

He has faced criticism for previously keeping a low profile on the issue of corruption for much of his time as Mr Zumas deputy, though supporters say he was biding his time and planned to engineer changes from within the government and ruling party.The wrong words in the febrile political atmosphere of Northern Ireland can do damage, and many people here will be disappointed at the way in which new Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald signed off her first major speech as party president.

They will regard it as at best unfortunate, and at worst extremely crass, that she used the term "Tiocfaidh ar la", which evokes images of the Provisional IRA and its terror campaign.

She is the new face of Sinn Fein, yet the tone of her remarks will call into question her credibility with people in Northern Ireland whom she needs to win over.

She also appealed to "our unionist friends", but does she not realise that at present Sinn Fein has absolutely no unionist friends? Ms McDonald is based in Dublin and it is clear that she quickly needs to get up to speed with what is happening on the ground here.

Does she also realise that you cannot look forward to a "new day" and still hark back to the past? What's next? Will she utter the stark old war cry "Brits out"?

As we know only too well from our past and more recent history, the wrong words cannot be unsaid.

They can prove harsh and divisive, and they place people in positions which they did not seek to be in, once they had time to think about it.

A good example was Arlene Foster's reference to feeding the Sinn Fein crocodile, which helped galvanise her opponents. Ill-judged words also polarise communities, and this has been happening to a distressing extent the past year.

People have returned to the trenches, and at times the mood music and spirit of the Good Friday Agreement has seemed much further away than 20 years ago.

Politicians have a duty to lead by example and to realise that words are hugely important, not only in private encounters but also in the full glare of the media.

That is particularly important this week, when the expected presence here of Prime Minister Theresa May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar suggests a long overdue settlement is possible.

This has been a frustrating and toxic year, and against a backdrop of increased pressures on health, infrastructure, education and job losses. Northern Ireland has become a harder sell overseas at a time when all minds should be focused on Brexit. We hope that all words will be chosen carefully over the next crucial period.Parishioners clean up the altar at St. Lidwina Catholic Church in Indonesias Yogyakarta province, a day after a man armed with a sword injured five people, including a priest, Feb. 12, 2018.

Saying there was no room for intolerance in the worlds most populous Muslim nation, Indonesian President Joko Jokowi Widodo on Monday condemned recent attacks on religious leaders, a day after a sword-wielding man slashed parishioners at a Catholic church and injured five people, including a German priest.

Jokowi made his statement on the same day reports emerged that Islamic hardliners had been issuing calls for knife attacks in Indonesia.

Theres no space for those who are against tolerance in our country, Indonesia, through both hate speech and violent acts, Jokowi told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jakarta. We have been living together side by side in harmony for decades despite diverse religious beliefs.

On Sunday, a 23-year-old man identified as Suliyono burst in, decapitated statues of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary and began slashing worshipers at St. Lidwina Catholic Church in central Yogyakarta province. He injured five people, including priest Karl Edmund Prier and a police officer before he was shot, officials said.

National Police Chief Tito Karnavian said Suliyono had recently visited cities known as hotbeds for militants, such as Poso in Central Sulawesi province and Magelang in Central Java province, according to the preliminary investigation. The suspect had planned to travel to Syria to fight with rebel groups there, Tito said.

Theres a strong indication that the attacker was radicalized, which led him to violence, Tito told reporters.

Yogyakarta Police Chief Ahmad Dhofiri said Suliyono underwent surgery for his injuries.

We hope to begin questioning him today [Monday] because he just recovered from surgery this morning, Ahmad told reporters. We will be supported by Densus 88 . We dont know yet if the investigation will be carried out in Yogyakarta or Jakarta.

Densus 88 is an elite unit often deployed in counter-terrorist operations.

Tito said investigators were trying to determine if Suliyono acted as a lone wolf  an individual who carries out terror attacks by himself  or if he was associated with a militant group.

Yogyakarta Police Chief Ahmad Dhofiri speaks to reporters about Sundays attack, Feb. 12, 2018. (Kusumasari Ayuningtyas/BenarNews)

Intolerant incidents

Sundays attack was the latest in a series of intolerant acts recently, many targeting religious leaders.

On Jan. 27, a Muslim leader, Umar Basri, was tortured while praying at a mosque in Bandung, West Java. In February, a Muslim cleric, H.R. Prawoto, was tortured by a man who suffers from mental illness in West Java.

On Feb. 7, a group forced Buddhist monk Mulyanto Nurhalim and his followers to stop using his house as a place for the local Buddhist community to conduct religious activities.

National Police Spokesman Inspector Gen. Setyo Wasisto said officers are investigating intolerant acts against religious leaders to sooth potential tensions.

We are working hard to solve the problems. But the police cannot work alone, he told BenarNews. Participation from members of the public, particularly religious leaders, are important to prevent further intolerant acts.

Police need to anticipate and prevent any potential acts that threaten security targeting religious leaders or use religious sentiments to divide Indonesians, said Hendardi, chairman of Setara Institute, a Jakarta-based human rights group.

Police are urged to take firm action against these intolerant groups for the sake of law enforcement, he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, an unnamed counter-terror official told Channel NewsAsia that radical groups were calling on militants last week to carry out attacks using knives. The official did not release details about what was said or what platforms were used to deliver the message.

JAD sentencing

Jokowi issued his statement as a Jakarta court sentenced JAD leader Zainal Anshori to seven years in prison after finding him guilty of trying to smuggle five weapons from the southern Philippines.

Last week, another pro-Islamic State JAD member was sentenced to 10 years for smuggling handguns, funding terrorism and plotting attacks in Indonesia.

Indonesian police blamed JAD for a January 2016 terrorist attack in central Jakarta that left eight people dead, including four perpetrators, in the first terror act claimed by IS in Southeast Asia. As many as 156 suspected terrorists were caught in Indonesia last year and another 16 were shot and killed during police raids.Indonesian maid Adelina Lisao is seen sleeping on a mat on the day she was found alive by police in a two-story house in Penang, Malaysia, Feb. 10, 2018.

A diplomat from Indonesia and a local rights group urged Malaysian authorities Monday to conduct a thorough investigation into the death of an Indonesian maid who suffered injuries and, according to a neighbor, was forced to sleep outside with the familys dog.

Police in the northern Malaysian state of Penang, where maid Adelina Lisao worked, have arrested three suspects  her 36-year-old female employer and the employers 39-year-old brother. The siblings 60-year-old mother was arrested on Monday, according to Nik Ros Azhan Nik Abd Hamid, the district police chief.

We will apply for a remand order in court tomorrow and we have taken statements from several witnesses, including the neighbor, he told reporters. We are investigating the case under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.

Police and other officials rescued Lisao, 26, on Saturday after authorities received a complaint from a neighbor, according to local councilman Joshua Woo Sze Zeng.

Woo Sze Zeng said he found the maid sleeping in the houses carport. She suffered wounds to her face, hands and legs and was taken to a hospital but died on Sunday.

Lisao was made to sleep on a mat where a Rottweiler was tied up nearby for almost two months, Woo Sze Zeng said, citing an account given to him by a neighbor.

Neni Kurniati, a consul at the Indonesian Consulate in Penang, demanded a quick resolution, urging Malaysian authorities to immediately find the culprit behind the Indonesian womans death.

We will leave it to the police to conduct a thorough probe into the matter, she told reporters Monday at the hospital where the maid had been taken. She said there were no complaints from Lisao about being abused by her employer.

Lisao had been working for the same household since December 2014, Kurniati said, adding the consulate was trying to locate her family.

The consulate would make arrangements for her body to be flown back to Indonesia after the post-mortem and investigations are over, Kurniati said.

Police said Lisao had bruises on her head and face. She suffered multi-organ failure secondary to anemia, which means her organs failed to work because of a lack of blood in her body, doctors said.

There is a high possibility that the victim was neglected, Dr. Amir Saad Abdul Rahim said in a brief report.

Muslim-majority Malaysia has about 32 million residents, including almost 1.8 million legally registered foreign workers and about 2 million undocumented immigrants who work in sectors ranging from agriculture to construction.

Sub-human entities

Tenaganita, a local migrant and refugee rights group, said Lisaos death mirrored the Malaysian society's utter disregard for the dignity and rights of migrant domestic workers.

Glorene Das, Tenaganitas executive director, said there have been many examples of verbal and physical abuse committed by Malaysian employers on domestic workers.

This suggests that many employers consider their domestic workers as sub-human entities who can be abused and ill-treated at will, she said in a statement.

Such ill-treatment was prevalent, she added, because of the lack of legal protection accorded to foreign domestic workers in Malaysia.

The Employment Act 1995, which purportedly protects the rights of domestic workers, does not even recognize them as workers, but, instead, defines them as servants, Das said.

Their place of work is seen as a private domain, which is not subject to public scrutiny to ensure that the labor and human rights of domestic workers are protected, she said. As a result, many employers feel that they can subject their domestic workers to sustained abuse and torture with impunity, which sometimes end tragically as in the case of Adelina, and many others before her.

Victims who free themselves from abusive and exploitative work by running away are inadvertently punished by authorities under the Immigration Act because they become undocumented, she pointed out.

The government should live up to its responsibility to protect this very vulnerable sector of our labor force, which has contributed so significantly to the well-being of millions of Malaysians, she said. We do not want to see another death of an innocent domestic worker in Malaysia.

Neni Kurniati, a consul at the Indonesian Consulate in Penang, Malaysia, talks to reporters at the Seberang Jaya Hospital in Penang, Feb.12, 2018.[Fairuz Mazlan/BenarNews]





Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte shows a photo of a Filipina who suffered injuries while working in Kuwait, during a press conference in the southern city of Davao, Feb. 9, 2018.

The Philippines on Monday froze the deployment of new workers to Kuwait after President Rodrigo Duterte lashed out at the oil-rich Gulf state over a sharp rise there in Filipino deaths.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the ban was for all deployment of workers to Kuwait where Filipino workers were allegedly subjected to routine cruelty by their Arab employers.

We will hold Kuwait responsible under the concept of state responsibility, Roque told reporters.

He emphasized that Kuwait was obligated under international law to compensate victims of what the Philippines considered horrendous crimes.

And, of course, if Kuwait fails in this regard, then it will ensure international responsibility for an internationally wrongful act, Roque said.

On Monday, the day the ban took effect, about 400 Filipinos who applied to be voluntarily repatriated from Kuwait were flown home. They represent the first batch of workers who were granted amnesty by the Kuwaiti government for overstaying without a valid visa.

No spokesman or diplomat from the Kuwaiti embassy in Manila was immediately available to comment.

The Philippine labor and foreign affairs departments said all the returning workers would be given job opportunities locally, even as they vowed to strictly enforce the presidents ban order.

Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said his department was coordinating with other state agencies to take steps in implementing Dutertes order.

Our efforts to protect our compatriots will not end with the imposition of deployment bans or the repatriation of our workers in countries where they are prone to maltreatment, Cayetano said.

Those who would be flown home would be assisted in finding employment, Cayetano said, adding the 400 were just a small portion of the estimated 10,000 Filipinos who had signed up for the repatriation.

About 10 million, or a tenth of the countrys population, live and work overseas, making the Filipino diaspora one of the largest in Asia. Most are employed as seafarers and maids in countries that offer scant labor protection.

Based on official government records, about 500,000 Filipinos are in Kuwait, and there are more than 3.5 million Filipinos scattered in the Middle East, officials said.

Remittances from the workers have traditionally kept the Philippine economy afloat, and the government has often called them modern-day heroes for their sacrifices.

Murder in Kuwait

Over the weekend, Duterte told reporters in his southern home city of Davao that he had received a report last week of a troubling incident involving the killing of a Filipina worker.

Police who served an eviction notice at an apartment in Kuwaits Al-Shaab district stumbled on a grisly discovery  the remains of missing Filipina maid Joanna Daniela Demafelis stuffed inside a freezer.

Demafelis had been tortured and later strangled to death, an autopsy revealed. She had been dead for a year when police found her, according to Duterte, who cited a report from Philippine diplomats.

He said he had ordered a review of labor documents in Kuwait, and was shocked to find out that the records of abuse of Filipinos there were so repugnant.

In Kuwait alone, there were 82 reported deaths of Filipino workers in 2016, which increased to 103 the following year. Since December, there have been at least six deaths of Filipino workers in Kuwait, all under mysterious circumstances, the president said.

Also in 2017, Kuwait executed Jakatia Pawa, a 44-year-old Filipina maid, after a court convicted her of murdering her employers daughter. Pawa maintained her innocence.

Pawas story had made headlines in the Philippines, especially after tests revealed the DNA retrieved from the murder weapon did not match hers. The government dispatched its second highest official to Kuwait in 2010, then Vice President Noli de Castro, to intercede on her behalf but failed to save the Filipina on death row.

On the day of Pawas execution, another Filipina maid died after she was beaten by her Kuwaiti employer, but the story went unnoticed, according to Duterte.

Sad to state it seems that our government is as useless as our foreign workers are helpless in the present state of things, he said. This is a national shame and yet we proclaim the OFWs [overseas Filipino workers] the modern-day heroes of the republic. Our words and action simply do not match.

He called on Kuwait to respect the dignity of Filipino workers, noting that they are no slave to anyone, anywhere and everywhere.

Every abuse committed against an OFW is an affront against us, as a sovereign nation, he said, and warned he was prepared to ban the deployment of workers there.

I could not stomach this. It is totally, totally unacceptable to me, Duterte said.

Not the solution

Arman Hernando, head of Migrante-Philippines, a migrant workers group, said the ban would serve as a wake-up call for the Kuwaiti government to respect Filipino workers.

But a total ban is not the solution. We must not forget that our government still has the primary responsibility to protect our OFWs. Kuwaitis violating the rights of our OFWs is a clear sign of their impunity, Hernando said.

The fact that many of our OFWs are exposed to, and have been victims of rights abuses says something about the government's effectivity in protecting our OFWs, he said.

He said a total ban on deployment without the government necessarily offering sustainable job alternatives at home would not stop our desperate compatriots from finding work in prohibited places.

Felipe Villamor in Manila contributed to this report.Soldiers at Philippine army headquarters in Manila cut one of hundreds of weapons confiscated during a pro-Islamic State group siege in Marawi, on the day Congress voted to extend martial law in the south, Dec. 13, 2017.

Philippine troops killed five Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) militants during a firefight on the southern island of Jolo that left seven soldiers injured, the military said Monday.

Elite troops with Marine Battalion Landing Team 3 were patrolling a remote village in Panamao town when ASG fighters attacked them on Sunday, regional military task force chief Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said. The firefight occurred three days after Filipino troops killed three militants in another southern province.

We got a report from civilians that militants were seen in the area. We dispatched troops and upon their arrival in the area, they were fired upon by the enemy, resulting in an exchange of gunfire, Sobejana said.

Our troops were very careful because we believe there were kidnap victims, he added without elaborating.

The militants withdrew following a brief shootout, Sobejana said, adding the seven soldiers suffered non-critical injuries.

ASG is notorious for kidnappings, bombings and random attacks in the southern Philippine region of Mindanao. Within the past two years, ASG members beheaded two Canadian hostages and a German captive after their governments refused to pay ransoms. The group is believed to be holding several foreigners and Filipinos hostage.

In October 2017, the military killed Isnilon Hapilon, an ASG faction leader considered the leader of the Islamic State (IS) branch in Southeast Asia, at the end of a five-month battle in the southern city of Marawi.

Incident in Lanao del Norte

On Thursday in Lanao del Norte province, soldiers killed three suspected IS-linked militants as they clashed in Pantar town.

The police commander of Pantar, Senior Inspector Mohammad Doro, said troops under the 4th Mechanized Battalion were conducting an operation in the village of Lumba Punod when they encountered the suspects.

He said three militants including Omar Mustapha Daiser, a local who was among 100 inmates set free by Maute gunmen in Marawi last year, were killed. The bodies of the two others were retrieved by kin for Muslim burials.

Army Brig. Gen. William Alunday, commander of an anti-terror task group, said investigators had information that Daiser was working with remnants of the Maute group in efforts to recruit members.

The joint law enforcement operations of military and police neutralized the notorious Maute-ISIS remnants in Lanao del Norte, Alunday said, using another acronym for Islamic State.

Martial law

The two shootouts followed last weeks decision by the Philippine Supreme Court to approve an extension of martial law in the south for all of 2018 to prevent what the military said was Maute gang recruitment efforts.

Majul Usman Gandamra, the mayor of Marawi City, said she believed the extension of military rule in Mindanao would prevent IS-affiliated groups from actively moving around the region to invite young Muslims to its cause.

We believe it will help especially in addressing the possible recruitment of would-be members of ISIS-inspired groups, Gandamra told reporters.

But in other areas, according to reports of the military, possible recruitment is taking place, but it is being addressed by our security forces, Gandamra added.By Shay Carroll

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoon, Professor Tim Chambers starts a class at Bowling Green State University's College of Business. As the students wait outside the classroom for him to arrive, they discuss their classes and social lives, and they compare translation notes on their most recent assignment.

That's because this isn't a typical class. The students conversations are a mix of Mandarin and English, and this is a transitioning and acclimation course for exchange students from the Tianjin Polytechnic University (TPU) in China. Over the course of the next hour, Chambers and the TPU students discuss western culture, life at BGSU, assignments and any other problems they might be dealing with.

Overall, it is fascinating to share both the faculty and culture between the schools, Chambers said."

BGSU has been working with TPU since 2014 to develop an exchange system for students and teachers to experience education in a different culture. This, however, is the first year that TPU students are at BGSU, fulfilling their credit requirements for a degree in business while getting an education abroad experience.

In addition to their classwork, Chambers has been helping the Chinese students figure out course and credit equivalents that they will need to graduate in May. .

Dr. Zubair Mohamed, associate dean at College of Business, said that faculty and administrators have been working together to track the students progress since they arrived.

We still meet on a monthly basis, he said.

Ten to 12 TPU students plan to graduate in May with business degrees. A lot will happen between now and then, including additional opportunities to explore cultural differences throughout their educational milestones.

One of these milestones was the exam process, and most of the TPU students said they were looking ahead to class exams, which are different from evaluations in China. Some students said they have used their classes here to present talk about current issues such as gender, culture and the press, comparing the United States to China. By talking with other American students and researching current U.S. events, their presentations and reports are an effective way to learn about Western culture.

Still, the fall semester brought some surprises as they acclimated to Western culture.

Many of the students said that Americans hold different attitudes about classwork than they are familiar with at home. One student explained that he found it confusing when most of his BGSU classmates did homework during the week, because at TPU in China, students usually do homework solely over the weekend.

Additionally, the TPU students said they found that the United States views gender and tradition differently, especially when it comes to gender roles and what is socially acceptable in the different countries.

The gender roles are a bit harsher in China, one TPU student said, especially with what women can or cannot do.

Many TPU students noted that BGSU and other American universities focus on how to help students with their work and understand the learning process, particularly through programs such as the BGSU Learning Commons. In China, however, the curriculum and classes are much more regimented, with applications of knowledge to the real world left for post-graduation.

We try to enact a more active learning environment here, Dr. Mohamed said. We have a much more inquiry-based learning system, especially with our critical thinking classes, which leads to more engaged and responsible students.

Other smaller culture changes the TPU students mentioned include some things that are everyday cultural norms for U.S. students.

Air conditioning was very surprising, one TPU student said. Its just a thing we dont have in China. Its very nice when its hot outside, though.Angela Falter Thomas and Dalia Panduro in Iquitos When Dr. Angela Falter Thomas, an associate professor of education, planned her faculty improvement leave for this year, her purpose was to write a textbook to fill a void in middle childhood education language arts materials. But in addition to spending intensive hours on that now nearly completed project, Falter Thomas has also managed to get far away from her computer to provide another kind of much-needed help to teachers in Peru. She also made a 10-day trip to Costa Rica in November to organize an inaugural 2019 winter session, and is visiting several of her former students in their schools to update her knowledge of whats happening in U.S. classrooms today.



I wanted to embrace every opportunity this faculty leave presents, she said.



In December, Falter Thomas received a request for help from two Peruvian teachers, Blucar Ledesma and Dalia Panduro, who had visited Bowling Green State University in 2015 as part of the IREX program, which brings about 20 international teachers to BGSU each year for six weeks of professional development. Falter Thomas remembers the first, snowy night the IREX group arrived and she met them at a dinner in Mileti Alumni Center, where Ledesma and Panduro talked about being from very different parts of Peru. Falter Thomas connected with them and has stayed in touch ever since.



Its really hard not to develop bonds with these absolutely remarkable people, who come from really challenging places, Falter Thomas said. Their stories are both heartwarming and heartbreaking.



So by January she was on her way to the mountains, jungles and Amazon region of Peru to conduct training for dedicated teachers who do not have the resources available to American educators. Far from the developed tourist areas such as Machu Picchu, Falter Thomas and her husband, Shayne, who accompanied her on the trip, saw a much different and less advantaged side of Peru. They feared their trip might be over almost before it started because, after arriving in Lima, they were awakened at 4 a.m. by a significant earthquake, followed by a tsunami warning. That, luckily, did not come to pass, and the quake caused only minor road damage where they were.



They set off for the areas where Falter Thomas would be teaching. Even though it is summer now in Peru and the teachers are on break, they journeyed over great distances to attend the trainings because, as they told her, they want to be better at their work.



My particular area is language arts and word study, Falter Thomas said. In the workshops, we worked on methods for word study and vocabulary, and strategies to share with their students. The teachers are highly educated and speak good English. I just had to slow down and repeat things in different ways, ask questions to make sure they were understanding. I used the same methods youd use in a middle school classroom.



The first workshop was attended by 35 teachers and was held at Ledesmas school in Comas, a high-poverty area in Lima. One teacher traveled eight hours on buses to get there, Falter Thomas said.



Students there are typically the first generation in their families to ever attend schools, she said. Theyre there because their families have moved from either very rural areas or the jungle and are living in shanty towns right above the school. Seeing their living conditions firsthand was heartbreaking. The schools have no toilet seats or paper, no hot water, nothing to dry your hands. Theyre really bare bones and very dire.



Next, the Thomases went to Panduros school, in Iquitos, where it is estimated between a half-million and a million people live.



To get to Dalias school you have to take a boat or fly, because Iquitos is inaccessible by road, Falter Thomas said. So we flew into their little airport, which is about the size of Toledos. Dalia drove up outside of my hotel on her little red motorcycle. There are very few passenger cars, but there are motor taxis. Dalia negotiated the price and followed behind on her motorcycle because its not safe. In Comas, Blucar would carry my bag or purse because I stand out. You have to be really careful, emotionally and physically always on guard. When youre so poor, it leads people to do desperate things, sometimes.



Again, Falter Thomas found citizens living in shacks with just four metal or wood walls, sleeping on sheets on the floor or in hammocks, with only open sewers for sanitation. Along the road are stands selling chickens, guinea pigs and tortoises to eat.



But Panduro teaches in a boarding school, which hosted Falter Thomass workshop. Its a new concept, a boarding school for high-achieving students, thats only been open about two years, Falter Thomas said. The government has selected the brightest 100 students from the surrounding area of Iquitos, and for now it only has 14- and 15-year-olds. In very rural areas the average family size is seven, so for parents to be able to send their kids here, where they get free housing, uniforms, health care and meals, is really desirable.



Falter Thomas leaned that one student had to travel 27 hours by boat to reach the school.



Through it all, Falter Thomas continued to marvel at the dedication of the faculty to serving their students and their eagerness to learn new methods.



The Peruvian teachers were just amazing, Falter Thomas said. They were so appreciative and grateful. As we were leaving, one put her hands on my shoulders and thanked me. She said, Its like nobody cares about us. Nobody wants to help us get better, and you did just that.



As she had during a 2016 trip to Cuba, Falter Thomas brought piles of childrens books to distribute to kids.



Ive found its a great conversation starter, she said. They warm up and they try speaking with me either in their language or in mine. In Peru, books are incredibly expensive and when the kids found out they were free, they were so delighted.



She also carried numerous gifts for the teachers from Dr. Sharon Subreendoth, a professor in the School of Teaching and Learning, who heads the IREX grant that brings the international teachers to campus each year. The IREX Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program brings outstanding secondary science and English as a foreign language teachers from abroad to the United States to further develop expertise in their subject areas, enhance their teaching skills, and increase their knowledge about the U.S. IREX is an international nonprofit organization providing thought leadership and innovative programs to promote positive lasting change globally.



Now back at home, Falter Thomas is putting the finishing touches on her textbook. There has not until now been a high-quality, affordable textbook for teaching middle childhood language arts methods, said Falter Thomas, who was a language arts teacher in grades four through eight for 20 years before obtaining her Ph.D. and joining the University. So she decided to create one.



Im also spending time with some of my former students who are now teachers, she said. I love teaching and I love my students and we keep in touch. Ive been out of the classroom now for eight years, and its been awesome to get into city schools, charter schools, rural schools, urban schools, Christian schools. It puts me in new situations I have not been able to partake in before.



Besides trips to many schools throughout Ohio, her visits are taking her to North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida and Houston, where the schools were hit by the recent hurricanes and floods.



The knowledge she gains will help her on her next adventure, a Fulbright appointment next fall at Palacky University in Olomouc, Czech Republic. In addition to teaching education classes, she also hopes to establish a long-term collaboration and partnership between BGSU and Palacky.



From all her communications with faculty and administrators at the university, I know more than ever Im going to do great work there, she said. Stay tuned.



Medlife.com becomes Indias first online pharmacy to launch its line of pure generic drugs.

Medlife.com, Indias fastest growing healthcare company and largest omni-channel pharmacy, is all set to launch its private label generic drugs. A first for any online pharmacy, Medlifes launch of generic drugs is in keeping with the Government of Indias recent efforts to encourage the use of affordable generic drugs, instead of expensive brand-named alternatives.

As the largest e-pharmacy in India, covering over 80% of the countrys pin-code, Medlife has plans to launch about 30 generic drugs and 40 OTC products by the next financial year. The Bengaluru-based health technology company expects a revenue of INR 100 cr from the private label offering.

A drug master file (DMF) is a confidential, detailed document submitted by Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) manufacturers to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Currently, it is the non-DMF grade products that is available in the Indian market and that too at a higher cost. Medlife is the first Indian company to use DMF grade material for its pure generic medicines and yet have kept the pricing economical. This is in line with Medlife`s vison to provide quality healthcare while relentlessly driving down the costs to make it more affordable for the people of India.

FDA-approved products, like Medlife paracetamol, provide greater assurance of quality and are held to high quality standards compared to products that are not approved by the FDA. This is going to be a major disruption in the Indian pharma market.

With its launch of private label generics, Medlife aims to make quality medicines affordable for Indians. For instance, the company will soon launch reasonably-priced, DMF-grade Paracetamol 650 mg that promises up to 92% drug release within just five minutes, to provide instant relief from fever and pain. The drugs will be manufactured in a WHO-GMP, PICS, HACCP, ISO 22000:2005 certified and approved plant.

Speaking about the companys long-term plans, Tushar Kumar, CEO, Medlife said, Being on the frontlines of the healthcare sector, pharmacy has the potential to be a real game-changer. Our vision is to develop a comprehensive and ethical healthcare ecosystem that makes healthcare affordable, accessible and responsive to the needs of all Indians. Promotion of generic drugs is a significant step in bringing down healthcare expenses and making medicines easily available to the common man. We need to spread awareness about the promise of pure generics among doctors and patients alike. In line with the Government of Indias push for generic drugs, we believe in its far-reaching benefits, especially in public health. Bringing together the best of technology and robust healthcare delivery system, Medlife is committed to bridging the yawning gaps in Indias healthcare system.

India is the largest provider of generic drugs globally, with the Indian generics accounting for 20 per cent of global exports in terms of volume. By 2020, the Indian pharmaceutical sector is expected to grow to US$ 55 billion, thereby emerging as the sixth largest pharmaceutical market globally.

Since its inception as an e-pharmacy company in 2014, Medlife has diversified into 24X7 e-consultation, laboratory services, app-based healthcare-related services, and now, private label generics, to become an integrated healthcare service provider with a pan-India presence. In a short span of just over two years post-launch, Medlife went on to create a customer base of one million unique customers.

Backed by promoters with credible experience in pharmaceutical and healthcare e-commerce businesses, Medlife is known for its best-in-class quality, 100% regulatory compliance and zero-delivery error. With a planned internal investment of $30 million to scale up operations, the company expects to earn a revenue of Rs 900-1000 crores by financial year 2019.Angela Merkels Christian Democrats (CDU) have now concluded coalition negotiations with the Social Democrats (SPD), publishing a 177-page agreement that SPD members will vote on. Following federal elections in September, attempts to form a coalition were rockier than usual and commentators talk of Germanys worst post-war political crisis, which could spark a political earthquake in Europe. But is it really such a crisis?

Germany has been governed since 2013 by a grand coalition between the CDU, their sister party, Bavarias Christian Social Union (CSU), and the Social Democrats (SPD), led by Martin Schulz. Septembers election was disappointing for both parties, with CDU dropping 8 points to 33%, and the SPD falling to a historic low of 22%. At the same time, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) entered the Bundestag for the first time with 12% of the vote, leaving them the third largest party ahead of the Greens, the liberal Free Democrats (FDP) and the Left Party.

Proportional representation means that coalition governments are the norm in Germany. Talk of a crisis emerged after CDU/CSU, FDP and Greens failed to form a coalition. Although Martin Schulz initially ruled out participating in another grand coalition, hoping to allow the party to rejuvenate in opposition, it was the only remaining option. Almost half-a-million SPD party members will now have to approve the deal by early March and approval is not guaranteed.

The situation is unusual for Germany. The collapse of talks was the first time coalition negotiations had failed in the countrys post-war history. Germanys culture of consensus politics expects parties to exercise political responsibility in contributing to stable government. It certainly poses the biggest challenge to Merkels chancellorship in her almost 13 years in office. Although her personal popularity ratings remain high, the grand coalition has left Germany without a strong opposition and created room for the AfD to challenge. The entry of a far-right party into the Bundestag for the first time since the 1960s is concerning, especially with their stated goal of disrupting Germanys consensus-based political culture. Finally, it has put French President Macrons plans for EU reform on hold; a strong, reinvigorated Franco-German relationship is seen by many as paramount for meeting the EUs many challenges.

However, Germany is not the unstable country in the heart of Europe. The previous government remains in office until a new coalition is sworn in. Angela Merkel is likely to remain chancellor  at least in the short term. Even if the SPD grassroots reject the coalition agreement, it will not automatically result in fresh elections. Only the federal president, Frank-Walter Steinmeier can call a fresh vote after a number of votes in the Bundestag  a constitutional system designed to encourage parties to work together. A minority government would be the first option, leaving Germany in a situation not uncommon in Europe. The AfD, moreover, enjoy less electoral support than similar parties have enjoyed in other parts of the EU. That Merkels chancellorship may be ending is not surprising  she has been in office longer than the other leaders of the G7 put together; the first German chancellor to lead two grand coalitions, let alone three.

What does international coverage of current German politics tell us about external perceptions of Merkel and her country. The concern that Germany risks instability in Europe has echoes of the past. Comparison with the Weimar period raises the spectre of a dangerous Germany. Indeed, the British press has long invoked the Nazi era when reporting Germanys role in Europe. Finally, as Joyce Mushaben notes, Angela Merkel has been dogged by speculation about her future as leader since the beginning of her chancellorship, continually described as weak and likely to fail  descriptions common to many female leaders. Germany is certainly facing some new challenges, but their severity should not be overstated.

Site traffic information and cookies

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Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 12/2/2018 (1310 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

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A seminar in Brandon featuring a man who was convicted for failing to provide the necessaries of life for his late son has been cancelled.

The owners of Hedleys Health Hut announced on Sunday evening that they would not be hosting a seminar Monday by David Stephan, who in 2016 was found guilty, along with his wife Collet, of failing to provide the necessaries of life for their son, who died in 2012 from what a medical examiner determined was bacterial meningitis.

The couple had treated their 19-month-old boy with garlic, onion and horseradish, rather than take him to a doctor, and although they eventually called 911 once the boy stopped breathing, he later died in hospital.

Stephan was sentenced to four months in jail, while his wife was ordered to spend three months under house arrest.

In November, the Alberta Court of Appeal upheld the conviction in a split decision, prompting a scheduled date in May for the case to be heard in the Supreme Court.

Titled "Achieving Brain & Thyroid Health  Rising to Your Potential!" Stephans seminar in Brandon was described on Facebook as a chance to "learn how our moods and outlooks on life naturally change as we improve brain and thyroid function, allowing for us to become more energetic, positive and vibrant beings."

Hedleys Health Hut had initially decided to host the event and owner Randy Kuz said doing so was not in support of what had happened in Stephans personal life.

"We are interested in the products that the company he works for (offers) and their potential ability to help and change peoples lives. That is what Hedleys Health Hut is all about."

By 6:30 p.m., the company had a post on its Facebook page saying it had cancelled the event altogether.

"Because of all the negative publicity in the press about Davids personal life, the Truehope seminar for Monday February 12th has been cancelled. We feel that any good information that would have been shared about their products would have been overshadowed by this."

Stephan has been touring through Western Canada for Truehope Nutritional Support and has made recent stops in Calgary and Saskatoon.

News of his events, including a scheduled appearance at the Health and Wellness Expo in Winnipeg this week, made headlines over the weekend and prompted a backlash on social media.

On Sunday, Sobeys announced that it would be pulling out as a sponsor of the Health and Wellness Expos of Canada and would not be associated with any future events.

Stephans name was also removed from the expos website and links to the events schedules no longer worked.

"Hes no longer involved with our company in any way shape or form," said Rick Thiessen, the expos owner.

Thiessen said he had no knowledge of the Stephans conviction until Saturday, when a post on the expo companys Facebook page criticized his inclusion.

He said Stephan was brought to his company last year by another vendor. Thiessen said he also looked at the website for Truehope Nutritional Support and was impressed by it.

"I didnt really know about anything else, any other parts of their history, and I didnt search their family history. Why would I? I hired a company off the internet from their website." Thiessen said.

"When youve already worked with somebody, and you see that hes there and he fills the room with people, and they all leave excited and overjoyed with what hes offering them in terms of his companys product  from a show managers point of view, thats what we all hope to get."

Thiessen did not support or condemn Stephan, but said sponsors and vendors are pulling out of the expo and he believes his company, and others who work with him, are a casualty of someone who wanted to hurt Stephan.

"I just dont know enough about what the problem was thats got everybody in a tither. So rather than try to pretend that I know more, I just parted company with him this morning," Thiessen said.

"I just know that I have a business to run."

Stephan told The Brandon Sun by phone in Saskatchewan that he had pulled out of the Health and Wellness Expos of Canada out of respect for the other vendors, but pointed to "pharma-trolls" as having used his recent public appearances as an excuse to attack him.

Earlier, Stephan went on Facebook to address the recent backlash in a nearly 25-minute long, live-streamed video, in which he disputed the cause of his sons death and criticized the media for its coverage of both his trial and recent events.

Stephan denied that his son died from bacterial meningitis and instead, pointed to the lack of intubation equipment in the ambulance his son was transported in as evidence of an alternative cause.

"I do public presentations all the time, all the time," Stephan told The Brandon Sun. "Ive done 30 in the past 13 months and Ive done seven in the past three weeks, and yet you hear nothing about them, and theres a good reason why, other than positivity," he said.

"This is nothing more than a mob mentality thats been generated by these faceless trolls on social media."

As for what he plans to do next, Stephan said he will "try to help some more lives in another way."

Stephans father, Anthony Stephan, co-founded Truehope Nutritional Support in Raymond, Alta., in 1996, after his wife took her own life.

The companys website says the woman and some of the couples 10 children had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, so Anthony Stephan formed the company with a friend to find a natural treatment.

The company says one of its products, EMPowerplus, helps treat bipolar disorder, depression and even autism. In the fine print, the website states that its claims have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease."

 mlee@brandonsun, with files from The Canadian Press

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01 (3) Mar 31 (1) Mar 30 (3) Mar 29 (4) Mar 28 (3) Mar 27 (4) Mar 26 (2) Mar 25 (4) Mar 24 (6) Mar 23 (5) Mar 22 (5) Mar 21 (4) Mar 20 (6) Mar 19 (5) Mar 18 (4) Mar 17 (4) Mar 16 (4) Mar 15 (4) Mar 14 (3) Mar 13 (4) Mar 12 (4) Mar 11 (5) Mar 10 (4) Mar 09 (5) Mar 08 (5) Mar 07 (5) Mar 06 (3) Mar 05 (4) Mar 04 (3) Mar 03 (3) Mar 02 (5) Mar 01 (4) Feb 28 (2) Feb 27 (3) Feb 26 (3) Feb 25 (3) Feb 24 (4) Feb 23 (4) Feb 22 (3) Feb 21 (4) Feb 20 (4) Feb 19 (3) Feb 18 (3) Feb 17 (3) Feb 16 (5) Feb 15 (4) Feb 14 (3) Feb 13 (4) Feb 12 (3) Feb 11 (3) Feb 10 (4) Feb 09 (4) Feb 08 (3) Feb 07 (4) Feb 06 (3) Feb 05 (3) Feb 04 (3) Feb 03 (5) Feb 02 (4) Feb 01 (3) Jan 31 (3) Jan 30 (3) Jan 29 (4) Jan 28 (3) Jan 27 (2) Jan 26 (4) Jan 25 (3) Jan 24 (5) Jan 23 (4) Jan 22 (4) Jan 21 (3) Jan 20 (3) Jan 19 (6) Jan 18 (4) Jan 17 (3) Jan 16 (4) Jan 15 (3) Jan 14 (4) Jan 13 (3) Jan 12 (6) Jan 11 (4) Jan 10 (4) Jan 09 (3) Jan 08 (4) Jan 07 (3) Jan 06 (4) Jan 05 (3) Jan 04 (4) Jan 03 (5) Jan 02 (4) Jan 01 (3) Dec 31 (2) Dec 30 (2) Dec 29 (2) Dec 28 (3) Dec 27 (3) Dec 26 (2) Dec 25 (2) Dec 24 (3) Dec 23 (3) Dec 22 (3) Dec 21 (3) Dec 20 (4) Dec 19 (4) Dec 18 (5) Dec 17 (3) Dec 16 (3) Dec 15 (3) Dec 14 (3) Dec 13 (3) Dec 12 (2) Dec 11 (6) Dec 10 (4) Dec 09 (4) Dec 08 (6) Dec 07 (5) Dec 06 (3) Dec 05 (3) Dec 04 (4) Dec 03 (3) Dec 02 (3) Dec 01 (4) Nov 30 (2) Nov 29 (3) Nov 28 (3) Nov 27 (2) Nov 26 (3) Nov 25 (5) Nov 24 (4) Nov 23 (6) Nov 22 (5) Nov 21 (4) Nov 20 (2) Nov 19 (5) Nov 18 (7) Nov 17 (5) Nov 16 (4) Nov 15 (6) Nov 14 (3) Nov 13 (3) Nov 12 (4) Nov 11 (3) Nov 10 (3) Nov 09 (4) Nov 08 (3) Nov 07 (2) Nov 06 (2) Nov 05 (2) Nov 04 (4) Nov 03 (4) Nov 02 (4) Nov 01 (2) Oct 31 (3) Oct 30 (4) Oct 29 (3) Oct 28 (2) Oct 27 (3) Oct 26 (3) Oct 25 (2) Oct 24 (2) Oct 23 (2) Oct 22 (3) Oct 21 (2) Oct 20 (3) Oct 19 (3) Oct 18 (2) Oct 17 (2) Oct 16 (2) Oct 15 (2) Oct 14 (4) Oct 13 (2) Oct 12 (3) Oct 11 (2) Oct 10 (2) Oct 09 (4) Oct 08 (4) Oct 07 (4) Oct 06 (3) Oct 05 (4) Oct 04 (5) Oct 03 (3) Oct 02 (6) Oct 01 (6) Sep 30 (5) Sep 29 (3) Sep 28 (3) Sep 27 (7) Sep 26 (4) Sep 25 (3) Sep 24 (5) Sep 23 (8) Sep 22 (3) Sep 21 (3) Sep 20 (6) Sep 19 (3) Sep 18 (3) Sep 17 (5) Sep 16 (7) Sep 15 (3) Sep 14 (4) Sep 13 (3) Sep 12 (5) Sep 11 (5) Sep 10 (5) Sep 09 (7) Sep 08 (5) Sep 07 (2) Sep 06 (7) Sep 05 (4) Sep 04 (4) Sep 03 (2) Sep 02 (2) Sep 01 (2) Aug 31 (3) Aug 30 (3) Aug 29 (3) Aug 28 (3) Aug 27 (3) Aug 26 (4) Aug 25 (3) Aug 24 (3) Aug 23 (3) Aug 22 (4) Aug 21 (4) Aug 20 (4) Aug 19 (4) Aug 18 (3) Aug 17 (2) Aug 16 (2) Aug 15 (5) Aug 14 (3) Aug 13 (5) Aug 12 (10) Aug 11 (5) Aug 10 (4) Aug 09 (5) Aug 08 (3) Aug 07 (4) Aug 06 (6) Aug 05 (5) Aug 04 (5) Aug 03 (3) Aug 02 (5) Aug 01 (7) Jul 31 (5) Jul 30 (5) Jul 29 (4) Jul 28 (3) Jul 27 (3) Jul 26 (5) Jul 25 (4) Jul 24 (5) Jul 23 (5) Jul 22 (7) Jul 21 (5) Jul 20 (4) Jul 19 (5) Jul 18 (6) Jul 17 (5) Jul 16 (5) Jul 15 (6) Jul 14 (4) Jul 13 (3) Jul 12 (2) Jul 11 (2) Jul 10 (2) Jul 09 (2) Jul 08 (2) Jul 07 (3) Jul 06 (2) Jul 05 (2) Jul 04 (4) Jul 03 (3) Jul 02 (2) Jul 01 (8) Jun 30 (6) Jun 29 (4) Jun 28 (6) Jun 27 (6) Jun 26 (6) Jun 25 (6) Jun 24 (6) Jun 23 (4) Jun 22 (4) Jun 21 (5) Jun 20 (4) Jun 19 (5) Jun 18 (8) Jun 17 (6) Jun 16 (5) Jun 15 (5) Jun 14 (5) Jun 13 (4) Jun 12 (4) Jun 11 (6) Jun 10 (4) Jun 09 (3) Jun 08 (5) Jun 07 (4) Jun 06 (3) Jun 05 (3) Jun 04 (3) Jun 03 (3) Jun 02 (3) Jun 01 (4) May 31 (2) May 30 (2) May 29 (2) May 28 (2) May 27 (4) May 26 (4) May 25 (3) May 24 (2) May 23 (2) May 22 (3) May 21 (5) May 20 (4) May 19 (2) May 18 (3) May 17 (3) May 16 (3) May 15 (4) May 14 (5) May 13 (3) May 12 (4) May 11 (3) May 10 (4) May 09 (4) May 08 (4) May 07 (3) May 06 (2) May 05 (3) May 04 (4) May 03 (2) May 02 (3) May 01 (3) Apr 30 (3) Apr 29 (4) Apr 28 (2) Apr 27 (3) Apr 26 (4) Apr 25 (2) Apr 24 (3) Apr 23 (2) Apr 22 (2) Apr 21 (4) Apr 20 (4) Apr 19 (5) Apr 18 (7) Apr 17 (6) Apr 16 (10) Apr 15 (5) Apr 14 (3) Apr 13 (4) Apr 12 (5) Apr 11 (4) Apr 10 (4) Apr 09 (7) Apr 08 (4) Apr 07 (7) Apr 06 (4) Apr 05 (7) Apr 04 (5) Apr 03 (4) Apr 02 (5) Apr 01 (5) Mar 31 (5) Mar 30 (5) Mar 29 (7) Mar 28 (6) Mar 27 (5) Mar 26 (5) Mar 25 (6) Mar 24 (5) Mar 23 (5) Mar 22 (5) Mar 21 (4) Mar 20 (3) Mar 19 (6) Mar 18 (6) Mar 17 (2) Mar 16 (4) Mar 15 (5) Mar 14 (4) Mar 13 (5) Mar 12 (5) Mar 11 (4) Mar 10 (4) Mar 09 (2) Mar 08 (5) Mar 07 (4) Mar 06 (3) Mar 05 (4) Mar 04 (6) Mar 03 (4) Mar 02 (4) Mar 01 (5) Feb 28 (6) Feb 27 (4) Feb 26 (4) Feb 25 (6) Feb 24 (2) Feb 23 (3) Feb 22 (4) Feb 21 (6) Feb 20 (2) Feb 19 (6) Feb 18 (4) Feb 17 (2) Feb 16 (3) Feb 15 (6) Feb 14 (6) Feb 13 (6) Feb 12 (9) Feb 11 (5) Feb 10 (3) Feb 09 (4) Feb 08 (4) Feb 07 (7) Feb 06 (3) Feb 05 (4) Feb 04 (5) Feb 03 (4) Feb 02 (3) Feb 01 (3) Jan 31 (4) Jan 30 (4) Jan 29 (3) Jan 28 (2) Jan 27 (2) Jan 26 (3) Jan 25 (4) Jan 24 (4) Jan 23 (2) Jan 22 (2) Jan 21 (5) Jan 20 (4) Jan 19 (5) Jan 18 (4) Jan 17 (4) Jan 16 (3) Jan 15 (4) Jan 14 (3) Jan 13 (3) Jan 12 (3) Jan 11 (2) Jan 10 (8) Jan 09 (6) Jan 08 (2) Jan 07 (2) Jan 06 (3) Jan 05 (2) Jan 04 (2) Jan 03 (2) Jan 02 (2) Jan 01 (2) Dec 31 (2) Dec 30 (3) Dec 29 (3) Dec 28 (3) Dec 27 (2) Dec 26 (2) Dec 25 (2) Dec 24 (2) Dec 23 (2) Dec 22 (2) Dec 21 (2) Dec 20 (3) Dec 19 (2) Dec 18 (3) Dec 17 (2) Dec 16 (2) Dec 15 (3) Dec 14 (2) Dec 13 (3) Dec 12 (3) Dec 11 (3) Dec 10 (5) Dec 09 (3) Dec 08 (3) Dec 07 (2) Dec 06 (3) Dec 05 (3) Dec 04 (5) Dec 03 (4) Dec 02 (3) Dec 01 (3) Nov 30 (4) Nov 29 (4) Nov 28 (2) Nov 27 (2) Nov 26 (2) Nov 25 (3) Nov 24 (2) Nov 23 (2) Nov 22 (2) Nov 21 (2) Nov 20 (3) Nov 19 (3) Nov 18 (2) Nov 17 (2) Nov 16 (5) Nov 15 (5) Nov 14 (4) Nov 13 (2) Nov 12 (2) Nov 11 (2) Nov 10 (2) Nov 09 (2) Nov 08 (2) Nov 07 (3) Nov 06 (6) Nov 05 (4) Nov 04 (5) Nov 03 (5) Nov 02 (3) Nov 01 (5) Oct 31 (7) Oct 30 (5) Oct 29 (4) Oct 28 (3) Oct 27 (2) Oct 26 (4) Oct 25 (4) Oct 24 (4) Oct 23 (4) Oct 22 (3) Oct 21 (2) Oct 20 (3) Oct 19 (2) Oct 18 (2) Oct 17 (3) Oct 16 (5) Oct 15 (4) Oct 14 (2) Oct 13 (2) Oct 12 (4) Oct 11 (5) Oct 10 (4) Oct 09 (3) Oct 08 (3) Oct 07 (3) Oct 06 (2) Oct 05 (5) Oct 04 (5) Oct 03 (4) Oct 02 (4) Oct 01 (5) Sep 30 (2) Sep 29 (2) Sep 28 (3) Sep 27 (6) Sep 26 (2) Sep 25 (3) Sep 24 (3) Sep 23 (2) Sep 22 (2) Sep 21 (2) Sep 20 (2) Sep 19 (3) Sep 18 (3) Sep 17 (3) Sep 16 (2) Sep 15 (4) Sep 14 (3) Sep 13 (5) Sep 12 (4) Sep 11 (6) Sep 10 (2) Sep 09 (5) Sep 08 (5) Sep 07 (5) Sep 06 (4) Sep 05 (4) Sep 04 (3) Sep 03 (2) Sep 02 (3) Sep 01 (3) Aug 31 (2) Aug 30 (2) Aug 29 (3) Aug 28 (6) Aug 27 (3) Aug 26 (2) Aug 25 (2) Aug 24 (3) Aug 23 (2) Aug 22 (3) Aug 21 (5) Aug 20 (4) Aug 19 (3) Aug 18 (2) Aug 17 (5) Aug 16 (3) Aug 15 (4) Aug 14 (5) Aug 13 (2) Aug 12 (2) Aug 11 (2) Aug 10 (2) Aug 09 (2) Aug 08 (5) Aug 07 (5) Aug 06 (6) Aug 05 (2) Aug 04 (5) Aug 03 (2) Aug 02 (3) Aug 01 (2) Jul 31 (4) Jul 30 (2) Jul 29 (2) Jul 28 (2) Jul 27 (2) Jul 26 (3) Jul 25 (4) Jul 24 (2) Jul 23 (3) Jul 22 (2) Jul 21 (3) Jul 20 (4) Jul 19 (2) Jul 18 (3) Jul 17 (4) Jul 16 (5) Jul 15 (2) Jul 14 (3) Jul 13 (2) Jul 12 (3) Jul 11 (2) Jul 10 (2) Jul 09 (2) Jul 08 (2) Jul 07 (2) Jul 06 (2) Jul 05 (2) Jul 04 (2) Jul 03 (2) Jul 02 (2) Jul 01 (3) Jun 30 (3) Jun 29 (7) Jun 28 (3) Jun 27 (2) Jun 26 (3) Jun 25 (1) Jun 24 (2) Jun 23 (3) Jun 22 (5) Jun 21 (3) Jun 20 (2) Jun 19 (2) Jun 18 (2) Jun 17 (2) Jun 16 (2) Jun 15 (2) Jun 14 (2) Jun 13 (3) Jun 12 (3) Jun 11 (3) Jun 10 (2) Jun 09 (4) Jun 08 (2) Jun 07 (4) Jun 06 (5) Jun 05 (3) Jun 04 (3) Jun 03 (2) Jun 02 (2) Jun 01 (4) May 31 (2) May 30 (3) May 29 (3) May 28 (3) May 27 (2) May 26 (2) May 25 (2) May 24 (2) May 23 (2) May 22 (3) May 21 (3) May 20 (2) May 19 (2) May 18 (4) May 17 (7) May 16 (2) May 15 (3) May 14 (4) May 13 (3) May 12 (4) May 11 (4) May 10 (4) May 09 (3) May 08 (2) May 07 (2) May 06 (2) May 05 (1) May 04 (2) May 03 (4) May 02 (3) May 01 (4) Apr 30 (1) Apr 29 (3) Apr 28 (2) Apr 27 (3) Apr 26 (2) Apr 25 (2) Apr 24 (4) Apr 23 (2) Apr 22 (2) Apr 21 (2) Apr 20 (3) Apr 19 (3) Apr 18 (4) Apr 17 (5) Apr 16 (4) Apr 15 (4) Apr 14 (3) Apr 13 (3) Apr 12 (3) Apr 11 (3) Apr 10 (4) Apr 09 (4) Apr 08 (3) Apr 07 (2) Apr 06 (3) Apr 05 (3) Apr 04 (1) Apr 03 (1) Apr 02 (1) Apr 01 (2) Mar 31 (2) Mar 30 (3) Mar 29 (2) Mar 28 (3) Mar 27 (3) Mar 26 (3) Mar 25 (3) Mar 24 (2) Mar 23 (3) Mar 22 (3) Mar 21 (4) Mar 20 (2) Mar 19 (3) Mar 18 (1) Mar 17 (2) Mar 16 (2) Mar 15 (1) Mar 14 (3) Mar 13 (1) Mar 12 (2) Mar 11 (1) Mar 10 (3) Mar 09 (2) Mar 08 (1) Mar 07 (1) Mar 04 (2) Mar 02 (2) Feb 28 (1) Feb 24 (1) Dec 31 (4) Dec 30 (4) Dec 29 (4) Dec 28 (5) Dec 27 (3) Dec 26 (3) Dec 25 (4) Dec 24 (3) Dec 23 (3) Dec 22 (4) Dec 21 (3) Dec 20 (3) Dec 19 (3) Dec 18 (3) Dec 17 (3) Dec 16 (3) Dec 15 (3) Dec 14 (3) Dec 13 (3) Dec 12 (3) Dec 11 (3) Dec 10 (3) Dec 09 (3) Dec 08 (3) Dec 07 (3) Dec 06 (3) Dec 05 (3) Dec 04 (3) Dec 03 (4) Dec 02 (3) Dec 01 (3) Nov 30 (3) Nov 29 (3) Nov 28 (3) Nov 27 (3) Nov 26 (3) Nov 25 (3) Nov 24 (3) Nov 23 (3) Nov 22 (3) Nov 21 (3) Nov 20 (3) Nov 19 (3) Nov 18 (3) Nov 17 (3) Nov 16 (2) Nov 15 (3) Nov 14 (3) Nov 13 (3) Nov 12 (4) Nov 11 (3) Nov 10 (4) Nov 09 (4) Nov 08 (4) Nov 07 (3) Nov 06 (3) Nov 05 (5) Nov 04 (4) Nov 03 (3) Nov 02 (4) Nov 01 (4) Oct 31 (4) Oct 30 (3) Oct 29 (3) Oct 28 (2) Oct 27 (4) Oct 26 (4) Oct 25 (4) Oct 24 (3) Oct 23 (3) Oct 22 (3) Oct 21 (4) Oct 20 (4) Oct 19 (3) Oct 18 (4) Oct 17 (4) Oct 16 (3) Oct 15 (3) Oct 14 (3) Oct 13 (3) Oct 12 (3) Oct 11 (3) Oct 10 (4) Oct 09 (3) Oct 08 (3) Oct 07 (4) Oct 06 (3) Oct 05 (4) Oct 04 (3) Oct 03 (4) Oct 02 (5) Oct 01 (3) Sep 30 (4) Sep 29 (3) Sep 28 (3) Sep 27 (4) Sep 26 (3) Sep 25 (3) Sep 24 (3) Sep 23 (3) Sep 22 (3) Sep 21 (3) Sep 20 (3) Sep 19 (4) Sep 18 (3) Sep 17 (3) Sep 16 (4) Sep 15 (3) Sep 14 (3) Sep 13 (3) Sep 12 (4) Sep 11 (4) Sep 10 (4) Sep 09 (4) Sep 08 (4) Sep 07 (3) Sep 06 (3) Sep 05 (3) Sep 04 (3) Sep 03 (3) Sep 02 (4) Sep 01 (3) Aug 31 (3) Aug 30 (4) Aug 29 (3) Aug 28 (3) Aug 27 (3) Aug 26 (3) Aug 25 (4) Aug 24 (4) Aug 23 (5) Aug 22 (3) Aug 21 (3) Aug 20 (3) Aug 19 (3) Aug 18 (3) Aug 17 (3) Aug 16 (3) Aug 15 (3) Aug 14 (3) Aug 13 (3) Aug 12 (3) Aug 11 (4) Aug 10 (5) Aug 09 (3) Aug 08 (3) Aug 07 (4) Aug 06 (5) Aug 05 (4) Aug 04 (3) Aug 03 (3) Aug 02 (3) Aug 01 (3) Jul 31 (3) Jul 30 (4) Jul 29 (3) Jul 28 (5) Jul 27 (3) Jul 26 (3) Jul 25 (3) Jul 24 (4) Jul 23 (4) Jul 22 (3) Jul 21 (4) Jul 20 (3) Jul 19 (3) Jul 18 (4) Jul 17 (4) Jul 16 (4) Jul 15 (3) Jul 14 (3) Jul 13 (4) Jul 12 (5) Jul 11 (4) Jul 10 (4) Jul 09 (3) Jul 08 (3) Jul 07 (3) Jul 06 (5) Jul 05 (3) Jul 04 (3) Jul 03 (4) Jul 02 (3) Jul 01 (6) Jun 30 (4) Jun 29 (4) Jun 28 (3) Jun 27 (4) Jun 26 (4) Jun 25 (5) Jun 24 (4) Jun 23 (3) Jun 22 (5) Jun 21 (5) Jun 20 (4) Jun 19 (4) Jun 18 (5) Jun 17 (4) Jun 16 (5) Jun 15 (5) Jun 14 (3) Jun 13 (3) Jun 12 (3) Jun 11 (3) Jun 10 (5) Jun 09 (3) Jun 08 (4) Jun 07 (4) Jun 06 (5) Jun 05 (4) Jun 04 (3) Jun 03 (4) Jun 02 (5) Jun 01 (3) May 31 (4) May 30 (3) May 29 (3) May 28 (3) May 27 (3) May 26 (4) May 25 (4) May 24 (4) May 23 (4) May 22 (3) May 21 (3) May 20 (4) May 19 (3) May 18 (3) May 17 (4) May 16 (3) May 15 (4) May 14 (3) May 13 (4) May 12 (1) May 11 (3) May 10 (3) May 09 (3) May 08 (3) May 07 (4) May 06 (3) May 05 (4) May 04 (4) May 03 (3) May 02 (3) May 01 (6) Apr 30 (3) Apr 29 (3) Apr 28 (3) Apr 27 (5) Apr 26 (3) Apr 25 (3) Apr 24 (3) Apr 23 (3) Apr 22 (3) Apr 21 (3) Apr 20 (3) Apr 19 (3) Apr 18 (3) Apr 17 (4) Apr 16 (3) Apr 15 (4) Apr 14 (3) Apr 13 (3) Apr 12 (3) Apr 11 (3) Apr 10 (3) Apr 09 (3) Apr 08 (3) Apr 07 (3) Apr 06 (3) Apr 05 (3) Apr 04 (3) Apr 03 (3) Apr 02 (3) Apr 01 (3) Mar 31 (3) Mar 30 (3) Mar 29 (3) Mar 28 (4) Mar 27 (3) Mar 26 (3) Mar 25 (3) Mar 24 (3) Mar 23 (3) Mar 22 (3) Mar 21 (3) Mar 20 (3) Mar 19 (3) Mar 18 (3) Mar 17 (3) Mar 16 (4) Mar 15 (3) Mar 14 (3) Mar 13 (3) Mar 12 (4) Mar 11 (3) Mar 10 (4) Mar 09 (4) Mar 08 (3) Mar 07 (3) Mar 06 (4) Mar 05 (4) Mar 04 (3) Mar 03 (3) Mar 02 (3) Mar 01 (3) Feb 28 (3) Feb 27 (3) Feb 26 (3) Feb 25 (3) Feb 24 (2) Feb 23 (3) Feb 22 (3) Feb 21 (3) Feb 20 (3) Feb 19 (3) Feb 18 (3) Feb 17 (3) Feb 16 (3) Feb 15 (3) Feb 14 (3) Feb 13 (3) Feb 12 (3) Feb 11 (4) Feb 10 (3) Feb 09 (3) Feb 08 (3) Feb 07 (4) Feb 06 (3) Feb 05 (3) Feb 04 (4) Feb 03 (4) Feb 02 (4) Feb 01 (4) Jan 31 (3) Jan 30 (3) Jan 29 (3) Jan 28 (5) Jan 27 (4) Jan 26 (5) Jan 25 (5) Jan 24 (5) Jan 23 (4) Jan 22 (3) Jan 21 (4) Jan 20 (3) Jan 19 (5) Jan 18 (5) Jan 17 (4) Jan 16 (3) Jan 15 (4) Jan 14 (3) Jan 13 (5) Jan 12 (5) Jan 11 (4) Jan 10 (4) Jan 09 (3) Jan 08 (3) Jan 07 (3) Jan 06 (3) Jan 05 (3) Jan 04 (4) Jan 03 (3) Jan 02 (3) Jan 01 (4) Dec 31 (3) Dec 30 (3) Dec 29 (3) Dec 28 (3) Dec 27 (3) Dec 26 (3) Dec 25 (3) Dec 24 (3) Dec 23 (4) Dec 22 (3) Dec 21 (3) Dec 20 (3) Dec 19 (3) Dec 18 (3) Dec 17 (3) Dec 16 (4) Dec 15 (3) Dec 14 (3) Dec 13 (3) Dec 12 (3) Dec 11 (4) Dec 10 (3) Dec 09 (3) Dec 08 (3) Dec 07 (3) Dec 06 (4) Dec 05 (3) Dec 04 (3) Dec 03 (3) Dec 02 (3) Dec 01 (3) Nov 30 (3) Nov 29 (3) Nov 28 (3) Nov 27 (3) Nov 26 (3) Nov 25 (3) Nov 24 (4) Nov 23 (6) Nov 22 (4) Nov 21 (5) Nov 20 (4) Nov 19 (4) Nov 18 (4) Nov 17 (4) Nov 16 (3) Nov 15 (2) Nov 14 (3) Nov 13 (3) Nov 12 (2) Nov 11 (3) Nov 10 (2) Nov 09 (4) Nov 08 (5) Nov 07 (3) Nov 06 (2) Nov 05 (2) Nov 04 (3) Nov 03 (2) Nov 02 (4) Nov 01 (4) Oct 31 (2) Oct 30 (6) Oct 29 (5) Oct 28 (3) Oct 27 (5) Oct 26 (3) Oct 25 (4) Oct 24 (3) Oct 23 (4) Oct 22 (3) Oct 21 (5) Oct 20 (4) Oct 19 (4) Oct 18 (4) Oct 17 (3) Oct 16 (2) Oct 15 (3) Oct 14 (3) Oct 13 (2) Oct 12 (2) Oct 11 (2) Oct 10 (3) Oct 09 (4) Oct 08 (2) Oct 07 (2) Oct 06 (2) Oct 05 (3) Oct 04 (2) Oct 03 (4) Oct 02 (3) Oct 01 (3) Sep 30 (3) Sep 29 (4) Sep 28 (3) Sep 27 (2) Sep 26 (2) Sep 25 (2) Sep 24 (1) Sep 23 (1) Sep 22 (2) Sep 21 (2) Sep 20 (1) Sep 19 (1) Sep 18 (1) Sep 17 (2) Sep 16 (1) Sep 15 (2) Sep 14 (2) Sep 13 (1) Sep 12 (1) Sep 11 (2) Sep 10 (2) Sep 09 (1) Sep 08 (1) Sep 07 (2) Sep 06 (1) Sep 05 (1) Sep 04 (2) Sep 03 (1) Sep 02 (1) Sep 01 (1) Aug 31 (2) Aug 30 (1) Aug 29 (1) Aug 28 (1) Aug 27 (1) Aug 26 (1) Aug 25 (1) Aug 24 (1) Aug 23 (2) Aug 22 (1) Aug 21 (1) Aug 20 (2) Aug 19 (1) Aug 18 (1) Aug 17 (2) Aug 16 (2) Aug 15 (1) Aug 14 (1) Aug 12 (1) Aug 09 (1) Aug 08 (1) Aug 07 (1) Aug 05 (1) Aug 04 (1) Jul 31 (1) Jul 30 (3) Jul 29 (5) Jul 28 (2) Jul 27 (3) Jul 26 (3) Jul 25 (3) Jul 24 (3) Jul 23 (3) Jul 22 (3) Jul 21 (4) Jul 20 (4) Jul 19 (3) Jul 18 (4) Jul 17 (6) Jul 16 (5) Jul 15 (3) Jul 14 (4) Jul 13 (4) Jul 12 (4) Jul 11 (3) Jul 10 (4) Jul 09 (3) Jul 08 (4) Jul 07 (3) Jul 06 (5) Jul 05 (4) Jul 04 (4) Jul 03 (4) Jul 02 (5) Jul 01 (3) Jun 30 (4) Jun 29 (6) Jun 28 (4) Jun 27 (4) Jun 26 (4) Jun 25 (4) Jun 24 (4) Jun 23 (4) Jun 22 (6) Jun 21 (3) Jun 20 (3) Jun 19 (6) Jun 18 (5) Jun 17 (5) Jun 16 (5) Jun 15 (4) Jun 14 (4) Jun 13 (5) Jun 12 (4) Jun 11 (3) Jun 10 (4) Jun 09 (3) Jun 08 (3) Jun 07 (4) Jun 06 (3) Jun 05 (4) Jun 04 (5) Jun 03 (5) Jun 02 (4) Jun 01 (5) May 31 (4) May 30 (4) May 29 (4) May 28 (5) May 27 (5) May 26 (5) May 25 (4) May 24 (5) May 23 (4) May 22 (4) May 21 (3) May 20 (6) May 19 (4) May 18 (4) May 17 (4) May 16 (5) May 15 (3) May 14 (3) May 13 (4) May 12 (3) May 11 (3) May 10 (3) May 09 (3) May 08 (3) May 07 (3) May 06 (3) May 05 (3) May 04 (3) May 03 (3) May 02 (3) May 01 (4) Apr 30 (4) Apr 29 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(1) Mar 24 (1) Mar 22 (2) Mar 21 (1) Mar 20 (1) Mar 18 (1) Mar 17 (2) Mar 16 (1) Mar 14 (2) Mar 13 (4) Mar 12 (1) Mar 11 (1) Mar 10 (1) Mar 06 (4) Mar 05 (1) Mar 04 (1) Mar 03 (2) Mar 02 (2) Mar 01 (2) Feb 28 (2) Feb 27 (1) Feb 26 (1) Feb 25 (1) Feb 23 (2) Feb 19 (2) Feb 13 (1) Feb 12 (1) Feb 02 (1) Jan 31 (1) Jan 22 (1) Jan 18 (1) Jan 16 (1) Jan 09 (1) Jan 01 (1) Dec 20 (2) Dec 15 (1) Dec 13 (1) Dec 11 (1) Nov 30 (1) Nov 27 (1) Nov 20 (1) Nov 11 (1) Nov 10 (1) Oct 23 (1) Oct 20 (1) Oct 01 (1) Sep 30 (1) Sep 29 (1) Sep 24 (2) Sep 15 (1) Sep 13 (1) Sep 12 (1) Sep 08 (1) Sep 02 (2) Aug 31 (1) Aug 28 (1) Aug 27 (2) Aug 24 (1) Aug 21 (1) Aug 20 (1) Aug 18 (3) Aug 16 (1) Aug 15 (1) Aug 14 (1) Aug 11 (1) Aug 08 (1) Aug 07 (1) Aug 03 (1) Jul 27 (1) Jul 26 (1) Jul 24 (1) Jul 22 (1) Jul 21 (1) Jul 19 (1) Jul 15 (1) Jul 14 (1) Jul 13 (3) Jul 10 (1) Jul 08 (2) Jul 07 (1) Jul 06 (1) Jul 03 (1) Jul 01 (1) Jun 28 (1) Jun 24 (2) Jun 20 (1) Jun 19 (1) Jun 18 (1) Jun 15 (1) Jun 14 (2) Jun 11 (1) Jun 09 (3) Jun 08 (1) Jun 07 (1) Jun 06 (1) Jun 04 (2) Jun 03 (1) Jun 02 (2) Jun 01 (1) May 31 (3) May 30 (1) May 29 (1) May 28 (2) May 26 (1) May 25 (1) May 18 (1) May 17 (1) May 15 (1) May 09 (1) May 07 (2) May 02 (1) May 01 (1) Apr 30 (1) Apr 27 (1) Apr 26 (2) Apr 23 (1) Apr 22 (1) Apr 19 (1) Apr 18 (1) Apr 12 (1) Apr 11 (1) Apr 09 (1) Apr 07 (1) Apr 05 (1) Apr 01 (1) Mar 30 (1) Mar 27 (1) Mar 25 (1) Mar 22 (2) Mar 19 (1) Mar 18 (1) Mar 16 (1) Mar 15 (2) Mar 13 (1) Mar 12 (1) Mar 11 (1) Mar 10 (1)The leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party is pointing the finger at the provincial government after regional health authorities recently awarded a pharmacy services contract for most of the provinces personal care homes to a single Ontario-based company.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 12/2/2018 (1310 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

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The leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party is pointing the finger at the provincial government after regional health authorities recently awarded a pharmacy services contract for most of the provinces personal care homes to a single Ontario-based company.

In a news release sent out on Friday, Dougald Lamont said Premier Brian Pallisters government should reverse the decision to grant a monopoly on pharmacy services and "return to the practice of sourcing medications locally."

"With this decision, the Pallister government is literally taking millions of dollars out of Manitoba-owned rural small businesses, and sending it to Ontario," he said. "Pallister is choosing to undermine small businesses and shrink the rural economy."

Lamont was in Brandon on Thursday as part of a yearlong tour of the provinces 57 electoral districts.

In January, The Brandon Sun reported that the RHAs had awarded a contract for pharmacy services at 102 personal care homes to MediSystem Pharmacy Manitoba Ltd., an Ontario company owned by Shoppers Drug Mart and its parent company Loblaw.

Pharmasave 471 was awarded a contract for two care homes in Flin Flon.

The contracts were awarded following a request for proposals initiated by Winnipeg Regional Health Authority Contracting Services, on behalf of the regional health authorities, in August.

The transition is expected to last six to seven months once the agreements come into effect on April 1.

Supporters of the plan say the move will create a safer and more standardized level of service, but pharmacists in Brandon and rural communities say they are concerned about the impact it will have on their businesses.

"Many studies suggest that dollars spent at local independent businesses return on average $45 or more for every $100 spent in the local economy," Lamont said. "In contrast, chain stores may return just $14 or less."

Brandon West Progressive Conservative MLA Reg Helwer shot back at Lamont, saying the process involved an open request for proposals.

"Im in favour of the open market," Helwer said.

"I just think that we see a Liberal leader thats increasingly out of touch with Manitobans. Hes trying to defend small business when his federal party was attacking small business with their proposed tax changes, so Im not sure quite where hes coming from."

Helwer said Brandon has had good success with the pharmacies that provided these services in the past, adding that the RHAs were the ones that issued the tender and made the decision to go with MediSystem and Pharmasave 471.

"As opposed to other provinces, we dont look for trade wars and we do business with companies all across North America, and we find the best value for Manitobans."

In a statement, Riding Mountain PC MLA Greg Nesbitt said as a rural resident, he understands that any reduction in support for local businesses creates a ripple effect throughout a community.

"However, I also believe that reducing costs where possible is necessary to keep our health-care system sustainable now and into the future," he said.

Nesbitt said there is no reason to believe that the high-quality services being provided, in most cases by the pharmacies where each care home is located, will not continue by the successful bidder.

"I wish to personally thank all the pharmacists in the Riding Mountain constituency for the services they have provided to (personal care homes) and for the day-to-care concern they have for their patients," he said.

"Our government will continue to work with Manitoba pharmacists to leverage all that they can contribute to a co-ordinated approach to health care."

In a statement, Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew described the decision to contract services as "concerning" and said it will have long-term impacts.

"For many local pharmacies, personal care home contracts make up a big share of their revenue. That means they go above and beyond to provide quality, compassionate service," Kinew said.

"Were worried that a corporate chain based in Ontario wont care about patients and families in the same way. This could hurt our seniors who rely on timely delivery of the medications they need."

 mlee@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @mtaylorleeA High Court judge has placed a stay on an order jailing a property owner for 10 days after he agreed not to interfere with or trespass at several premises in receivership, writes Ann O'Loughlin.

On Friday, Ms Justice Caroline Costello found Liam Mulvaney was in contempt of court orders preventing him from trespassing at or interfering with the receivership of 17 properties owned by him.

The prison term was handed down after Mr Mulvaney, who disputes the validity of the receiver's appointment, refused to comply with an injunction granted against him last December.

The injunction was sought by receiver Tom O'Brien who claimed Mr Mulvaney of Sarsfield Road, Inchicore, Dublin 8 and Palmerstown, Dublin had been interfering with and obstructing him from carrying out his duties as receiver over the properties.

Last Friday's order against Mr Mulvaney was not executed and the matter came back before the court today.

Following a submission made by Mr Mulvaney's lawyers, Ms Justice Costello said she was prepared to place a stay on the committal order if Mr Mulvaney was prepared to abide by the terms of the injunction, save for one exception.

The exception was that further investigations are to be made into Mr Mulvaney's claim that a house at Avondale Lodge, Old Lucan Road, Palmerstown, which is one of the properties in receivership, is his family home.

While that process was being undertaken Mr Mulvaney and his family could remain on at Avondale Lodge, the Judge said.

The judge adjourned the case to a date later this month after Mr Mulvaney gave a sworn undertaking to abide by the injunction.

Lawyers for the receiver had previously expressed surprise at the claim the Avondale Lodge property is Mr Mulvanney's family home.

That claim was never made when the case was before the courts last year. Avondale Lodge, like the other premises in receivership, is an investment property, the receiver says.

The receiver sought the injunction last December due to Mr Mulvaney alleged interferance with the receivership.

The receiver then sought Mr Mulvaney's attachment and committal to prison because of his alleged further interference after the injunction was granted.

Last week Mr Mulvaney rejected claims made against him by the receiver and said he intends to appeal the injunction against him.

Mr O'Brien was appointed as receiver over the properties by Ulster Bank Ireland Designated Activity Company.

Ulster Bank claims it is owed 7.5m by Mr Mulvaney arising out of his failure to satisfy its demands to repay loans advanced to him between 2004 and 2010.With love in the air at this time of year, Irish singletons may find themselves searching for a special someone in the run-up to Valentines Day.

Well, turns out singletons all over the country will be booking the bus to the big smoke this weekend as the Dubliners have been crowned as Irelands biggest heartthrobs.By Ann O'Loughlin

Amnesty International's Irish section has launched a High Court challenge to an order of the Standards in Public Office Commission that it return a donation of 137,000 for a campaign to increase support for a referendum to repeal the 8th Amendment.

The donation was made in August 2015 by Swiss-based foundation the Open Society Foundations (OSF), for the Irish-based strand of Amnesty's international "My Body, My Rights" campaign.

The objectives of the campaign included increasing support among politicians for the holding of a referendum on the Eight Amendment and providing a human rights-compliant abortion framework.

The campaign included lobbying politicians, and organising events and seminars for politicians prior to the 2016 General Election aimed at having the Eight Amendment repealed.

Last November, the Standards in Public Office Commission directed Amnesty to return the monies after finding the donation was prohibited under Section 23 A2 of the 1997 Electoral Act, as it was deemed to be a donation for political purposes.

Amnesty denies the funds were used for political purposes and says the decision is flawed, and should be set aside.

As a result, Amnesty International's Irish section has brought proceedings against both the Standards in Public Office Commission, Ireland and the Attorney General seeking to quash the decision.

It also seeks several declarations including that the Standards in Public Office Commission acted in error of law, in excess of its jurisdiction, misdirected itself as to the interpretation of electoral law, has failed to give adequate reasons for its decision and has acted irrationally and unreasonably.

It further seeks declarations that it should not have to repay the monies, that the Standards in Public Office Commission breached both Articles 40. 3 and 43 of the Irish Constitution, the European Convention on Human Rights and EU law.

Today, Brian Murray SC for Amnesty said the challenge raises many complex legal issues concerning the interpretation of the Electoral Act.

"Amnesty and other NGOs are extremely concerned about the implications of the decision," Counsel said.

Counsel said the purpose of the donation was to fund Amnesty's 2016 campaign to increase public support for repealing the 8th Amendment, and collaborate with other groups working on access to safe and legal abortion.

No referendum on the Eight was planned or had been called when the donation was made, Counsel said.

Counsel said in 2016 media reports on leaked documents from OSF suggested that the funding was part of a strategy to force the repeal of the Eight Amendment. The Standards in Public Office Commission then wrote to Amnesty referring to obligations under the Electoral Act.

Counsel pointed out Amnesty said the donation was not for political purposes.

However the Commission said it received information and confirmation from the foreign donor the monies were for explicitly political purposes.

OSF has disputed that it provided written confirmation that the donation was for political purposes, and said the Standards in Public Office Commission seemed to be basing its decision on an internal document for discussion that was made public after OSF was hacked by Russians, Counsel said.

Amnesty fears the matter could be referred to the Garda, leading to a possible criminal prosecution, if if does not not return the monies.

It also fears reputational damage and financial hardship as Amnesty does not have any significant reserves. The return of the monies would have to come out of its current budget for 2018, Counsel added.

Permission to bring the challenge was granted, on an ex-parte basis, by Mr Justice Seamus Noonan.

The case will come back before the court in April.Judges at the Special Criminal Court will deliver a verdict next month in the case of a Cork man accused of IRA membership, writes by Alison O'Riordan.

Sean Walsh (aged 51) of St John's Well, Fair Hill, Co Cork is charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh Na hEireann, otherwise the IRA on December 14, 2016.

Arraigned on the charge before the non-jury Special Criminal Court today, Mr Walsh pleaded not guilty.

Ronan Kennedy BL today opened the prosecution case to the three-judge court.

Chief Superintendent Barry McPolin told Mr Kennedy that he believes Mr Walsh was a member of the IRA on the date in question based on confidential information given to him.

He said he was not in a position to disclose this information and was claiming privilege over it.

Detective Sergeant Patrick Murphy told counsel there were a number of surveillance operations taking place at the time which focused on the accused's activities.

The witness said Mr Walsh met with his co-accused Joseph Walsh and Michael Gilmartin and a fourth man suspected of IRA membership at a house on Old Commons Road, Blackpool in Cork on November 29 and there was a second meeting between the men on December 6.

Det Sgt Murphy said a fourth man, who was due to carry out work on the house, was shot dead by two assailants when he was walking towards Old Commons Road on December 7.

The witness said he went to the house on Old Commons Road later that evening and conducted a search of the attic where he inspected a bag which contained two firearms, 14 rounds of ammunition, latex gloves and a black woolly hat. The hat contained a DNA profile which matched Mr Walsh's DNA profile, he said.

Det Sgt Murphy said he received confidential information on December 14 that a group calling itself the New IRA were to come into possession of firearms that evening.

He said Michael Gilmartin was seen at a petrol station in Newtown in Cobh carrying a bag. He said Sean Walsh and Joseph Walsh then arrived in a gold-coloured Toyota Avensis and the three men had a long conversation before making their way to a house at Chestnut Drive, Cluain Ard, Newtown in Cobh.

Joseph Walsh was carrying the bag when he entered the house and the Armed Support Unit entered the premises shortly afterwards. The accused was found in the bathroom and the two other men were in a childs bedroom.

The witness said he later inspected the bag which contained a sawn-off shot gun, a smaller bag with a Walther pistol and loose ammunition. He said Gilmartins DNA was found on the holster recovered from the bag.

The accused was arrested and detained, he did not answer any material questions in his interviews, he said.

Det Sgt Murphy agreed with counsel that the accused was observed with Anthony Crowley on September 6, 2014. Crowley was convicted before the Special Criminal Court in 2005 for unlawful possession of firearms.

Ronan Munro SC, for Mr Walsh, made a number of admissions today on behalf of his client including that he was present at Old Commons Road for a period of time, a bag with a sawn-off shot gun was found in the attic of a house, his DNA was found on a black woolly hat and he met a co-accused at a petrol station on December 14.

Mr Kennedy told the court that the prosecution closed its case. Mr Munro said the defence was not going into evidence.

The court only heard a closing speech from Mr Kennedy in which he said the prosecution had proven their case beyond a reasonable doubt which included the "clear and cogent" belief evidence given by Chief Supt McPolin which the court "could attach great strength to" as it went unchallenged.

Last year, at the non-jury court, Joseph Walsh (aged 36), of Glengarriff Road, Fair Hill, Co Cork and Michael Gilmartin (aged 47), with an address at Chestnut Drive, Cluain Ard, Newtown, Cobh, Co Cork both pleaded guilty to possession of firearms including a magazine suitable for a 9mm Parabellum pistol, a 9mm Parabellum pistol and a double-barrel sawn-off shotgun at Chestnut Drive, Cluain Ard, Newtown, Cobh, Co Cork on December 14, 2016.

They also admitted the possession of 14 rounds of 9mm ammunition and eight shotgun cartridges at the same place on the same date.

Last week, Walsh was sentenced to five years and six months in prison for possession of firearms and two years for possession of ammunition.

Gilmartin was jailed for five years for possession of firearms and two years for possession of ammunition. The men's sentences are to run concurrently and were backdated to December 14, 2016.

Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding, sitting with Judge Patricia Ryan and Judge Ann Ryan, will give judgement in Sean Walsh's case on March 2.By Pat Flynn

It has emerged that fighter jets from two countries were scrambled to intercept a Ryanair flight on Saturday after communications were lost with the aircraft.

Ryanair FR-9525 from Lublin (Poland) to Stansted Airport in England suffered a radio communications failure over The Netherlands on Saturday night.

It is understood that there had been no contact from the aircraft for more than 30 minutes and efforts were made to call the flight on a number of radio frequencies including the international aviation radio distress channel.

When controllers were unable to make contact with the crew, two Belgian Air Force F-16 fighter aircraft were dispatched to intercept the aircraft. Its understood the jets were operating in the airspace on behalf of Belgian and Dutch military airspace at the time.

NEWS @BeAirForce - Last night 2 #F16 on Quick reaction Alert took off from Kleine-Brogel Air Base for a civilian airliner that had lost all contact with air traffic control. Once radio contact was re-established, jets returned to homebase around midnight. Protecting your security pic.twitter.com/9CdhDmwvKg  Belgian Air Force (@BeAirForce) February 11, 2018

In the meantime, an RAF Typhoon fighter jet were scrambled from a UK air base so they could intercept the plane when it entered British airspace.

When the Belgian fighter jets intercepted the flight near Rotterdam radio contact was re-established.

The fighter aircraft were stood down while the Ryanair flight continued to Stansted for a safe.

Ryanair would only say: This flight from Lublin landed normally at Stansted airport.

The Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU) of the Department of Transport here confirmed it was notified of the incident and said loss of communications incidents are a matter for the military/security services.

As this event occurred in UK airspace it is a matter for the security services of the UK. As such the AAIU is not investigating this occurrence, the AAIU said.A former RTE producer is due to be sentenced for child sex offences in Leeds today.

55-year-old Kieran Creaven pleaded guilty in December to attempting to meet a girl under 16 following grooming.Gardai are seeking help in tracing a missing 51-year-old man from Dublin.

Paul O'Donnell is missing from his home in Clontarf since Tuesday, February 6.

He is described as 6ft, slim build with short brown hair and blue eyes.

Anyone with information about Paul's whereabouts is asked to contact Gardai.

- Digital DeskBy Ann O'Loughlin

The HSE has got an urgent court hearing later this month of its bid to lift the automatic suspension of a contract for supply of the "critical" 6in1 vaccines after expressing anxiety about the need to ensure future supplies.

The HSE's decision last January to award the five-year contract to GlaxoSmithKline was automatically suspended by the issuing on February 2 of legal proceedings by an unsuccessful tenderer, Sanofi Aventis Ireland Ltd, trading as Sanofi Pasteur.

In seeking to have the suspension lifted, the HSE said, in documents put before the Commercial Court yesterday, Monday, the implications of any disruption in the supply of the vaccine would be "extremely serious", including increased risk of the diseases currently preventable by the vaccine.

For reasons including an ongoing shortage in the pertussis (whooping cough) and Hepatitis B components of the vaccine, it is "vital" to have lengthy forecasts for orders of the vacines, Dr Brenda Corcoran of the National Immunisation Office said in a sworn statement.

Supplies of the vaccine avaiable under the current contract will be exhausted by the end of January 2018 and a reasonable estimate of the lead-in time for production of vaccines ordered under the new contract will be 12 months, she said.

If new supplies are not ordered by March 1, 2018, there will "simply be no guarantee of supply".

The HSE says the estimated value of the new contract, based on the purchase costs to the HSE, is between 22m-28m, less VAT, based on an estimated number of doses of the vaccine. The HSE said it does not know the actual costs to the manufactuer.

In order to ensure future supply of these "critical" vaccines, Catherine Donnelly BL, for the HSE, said it wanted an urgent hearing date of February 23 for its application to lift the automatic suspension of the contract.

While Sanofi pointed to the HSE having indicated there would be some leeway of a month or so, the HSE maintained, unless supplies were ordered by March 1, there would be no guaratee of supply, counsel said.

Joe Jeffers BL, for Sanofi, urged the court to give his side until February 27, saying the proposed timescale was very tight.

Mr Justice Brian McGovern agreed the matter was urgent and fixed the hearing of the application for February 23 as sought by the HSE. The parties will just have to be ready for hearing, he remarked.

The contract is for supply, over about five years, of about one million doses of the 6in1 vaccine, which relates to Diphtheria, Tetanus, acellular Pertussis, Hepatits B, Inactivated Polio Vaccine and Hameophilus Infuenza Type B.

In its challenge over the award of the contract to GSK, Sanofi alleges the HSE failed to comply with various EC Directives and regulations governing the award of public supply contracts.Everyone should respect the law banning female genital mutilation (FGM) and support the global campaign calling for an end to the practice, three Muslim groups have said.

The Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council (IMPIC), the Al-Mustafa Islamic Centre Ireland and the Ifrah Foundation said FGM was a violation of human rights.

The groups joined in the criticism of remarks by an Irish Muslim cleric advocating female circumcision.

Dr Ali Selim of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland told RTE last week that female circumcision should be carried out if a doctor advised that it needed to be done.

"We see female circumcision in the same way we see male circumcision," Dr Selim said.

"It might be needed for one person and not another, and it has to be done by a doctor and practised in a safe environment," he said.

Dr Selim's comments came as Ifrah Ahmed, a survivor of the practice, launched #MeTooFGM, a worldwide social media campaign against FGM.

The 29-year-old, who was born in Somalia, said FGM is happening outside of developing countries, including reports of it occurring in the UK.

Ifrah Foundation founder Ms Ahmed, Ifrah Foundation board member Dr Chris Fitzpatrick and IMPIC chairman Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri met in Dublin on Monday to voice their opposition.

"There is no medical, religious or cultural justifications for FGM," they said.

"Muslim leaders and scholars categorically reject that the practice offers any benefits and considers it in direct contradiction to the basic tenets of Islam.

"FGM is associated with serious medical complications in young girls and women. It is also associated with complications relating to childbirth and is responsible for the deaths of mothers and babies in counties where it is practised."

The groups added: "[We] call on all Irish Muslims to respect the law in relation to FGM in Ireland and supports the global campaign to end FGM."

IMPIC and the Al-Mustafa Islamic Centre in Ireland are backing Ms Ahmed's global campaign.

Health Minister Simon Harris and Trinity College Dublin, where Dr Selim is a part-time language teacher were among those who have been critical of Dr Selim.

Female genital mutilation is never ever justifiable, has no place in healthcare, is illegal, dangerous, can have a devastating impact & is violation of human rights. I welcome resolute comments of our medical community. I join them in condemnation of offensive & worrying remarks  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) February 11, 2018

A spokesman for Trinity College Dublin said university teachers and students believed the practice was always wrong.

FGM comprises all procedures involving altering or injuring female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is recognised internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women.

It is estimated that at least 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone some form of FGM, according to the UN.

Girls aged 14 and younger represent 44 million of those who have been cut, most commonly in Gambia, Mauritania and Indonesia.

The procedure is mostly carried out on young girls between infancy and age 15, the UN protest organisers said.

It causes severe bleeding and health issues including cysts, infections, infertility and complications in childbirth.

The #MeToo movement began after claims of serious sexual misconduct surfaced in Hollywood allegedly involving producer Harvey Weinstein, which he denies.

- PAby Gordon Deegan

A Luas fares inspector who said he was subjected to racial abuse by young men travelling the Luas was sacked after he retaliated by throwing a punch.

On the night of August 24th 2015, Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) Adjudication Officer, Penelope McGrath said she accepted that the fares inspector was being subjected to an unacceptable level of racial and other abuse.

Ms McGrath said that a cohort of the passengers were behaving in an appalling way.

However, Ms McGrath said that the difficulty from the fares inspectors point of view is that he could provide no evidence to suggest that the male he is seen on CCTV throwing a punch at was part of this general behaviour and even if he was, I cannot see how an employer can countenance an employee going on the offensive and throwing the first punch.

Ms McGrath said that the Luas firm had no option but to dismiss the fares inspector and acted reasonably in sacking the man

She said: Termination was the only option.

The man had brought an unfair dismissal action to the WRC but Ms McGrath said that the CCTV footage of the incident is objectively persuasive.

She said: Once an employee whose job it is to interface with the public every day has been shown to allow himself to get so riled up as to take a swing at a member of the public, the employer is bound to question the employees suitability to perform the job in which he has been trained."

The inspector had been employed with the Luas since 2008 where he worked hard and had done well with the firm before his sacking in November 2015 for gross misconduct as a result of the Cowper station incident on Dublin's south-side.

The dismissal letter told the fares inspector that he was sacked for engaging in actual or threatening physical violence against a passenger.

During his time with the Luas, the man had previously taken sick leave as a result of being assaulted by a passenger and was granted a line transfer on his return to work.

Ms McGrath said that on the night of August 24th 2015, the Luas trams were filled with large numbers of young men fuelled up with alcohol and generally being difficult and disrespectful.

An employee with the Luas described to the youths as acting the maggot to the WRC hearing into the case.

In her report, Ms McGrath stated that a significant number of these youngsters had no tickets but were disinclined to get off the tram and/or identify themselves when asked to do so by the Revenue Protection Officers.

Ms McGrath said that the fares inspector and his colleagues had the unenviable task of challenging non-ticket holders for the purpose of issuing standard Fare Notices.

She said that there was no security to speak of and the Gardai were called. She said: It seems things were a bit chaotic, as there was ongoing and running difficulties with the train users and the train staff on the line and at the stations all the way into the city.

Ms McGrath said that six statements taken from Luas employees show that lads were being abusive and using foul language and racial slurs particularly pointed at the complainant.

In her findings, Ms McGrath recorded that the youths were in different states of drunkenness - they were abusive, disrespectful and were careless as to their own safety and the safety of others.

Ms McGrath said that the fares inspector knew that this kind of abuse formed part of the overall abuse he might be subjected to though it seems the racial element might have got to him on this particular evening.

The inspector said that he had received a lot of conflict management training from his employer but that it was not enough in circumstances where he would be abused on an almost daily basis with racial abuse sometimes forming part of that onslaught.

Ms McGrath said that she has watched the CCTV footage of the incident over and over again where the inspector is seen hustling the young male, referred to as Mr L. off a tram.

She said that she sees the inspector raise his right arm and take a swing.

Ms McGrath said that she cannot be sure if there is a connection made while Mr L said that there was and that he was hit on the back of the head.

A colleague of the ticket inspector said that he heard the young male saying Pakistani, you hit me or words to that effect and Mr L categorically denied being racist.

Mr L was with friends that evening and accepted that some of the people with whom he was travelling were not ticket holders and were asked to leave but that he did have a ticket.

Mr L had contacted the Luas firm the following day to complain about the incident and an investigation was launched.

Ms McGrath said that the fares inspector gave evidence at the two day hearing that he had felt intimidated and in fear for his life and that Mr. L had gesticulated threats to him.

Ms McGrath said that the fares inspector had not given this evidence at the investigation or disciplinary stage and even if I did believe this account, and I have my doubts, I do not see how it can justify throwing the first punch albeit where contact is not certain.A man sexually assaulted a foreign student on a bus before he went home with her against her wishes and raped her in the hall of her home, a court has heard.

The 39-year-old Egyptian national, who currently cannot be named at the direction of the judge, told his victim he would give her the best ten minutes of her life before he raped her, the Central Criminal Court heard today.

The man was found guilty by a jury of one count of rape, two counts of sexual assault and one count of threatening to kill the then 27-year-old woman between July 7 and 8, 2016.

The jury in the Central Criminal Court case returned the unanimous verdicts last November following a three-week trial.

The court heard that identifying the man will not identify the victim but that she does not want him named because it will destroy his life.

Ms Justice Isabel Kennedy ordered that reporting restrictions would remain in place for now and that she would deal with the issue at the sentencing date next week.

At his sentence hearing today, the court heard the man, an illegal immigrant, has a previous conviction for masturbating in public in 2013. He exposed himself in front of two women in Harcourt Street in Dublin, Garda Sylvia Ryan said.

The court heard that a deportation order is in place, which he is appealing.

Gda Ryan told prosecution barrister, Pauline Walley SC, that the victim was living and working in Ireland for the summer of 2016. On the day in question, she took a bus from Carlow to Dublin to visit a friend.

She met the accused man on the bus and the pair got talking. They then visited Stephen's Green together, where the man tried to kiss her. The woman rejected his advances and shortly afterwards, said goodbye to him and met her friend at Trinity College.

The victim was returning to Carlow that night and her friend walked her to the bus station. The court heard she was uneasy to discover that the man was going to be on the same bus home.

Gda Ryan said the woman got on the bus first and put her rucksack on the seat beside her, but the man sat beside her anyway. During the bus journey, he sexually assaulted her by groping her, while she tried to fend him off.

The court heard the man then accompanied the woman to her home. She was extremely unhappy about this, Ms Walley said, adding the woman told him to leave. Instead, the man came with her into her house.

He asked to use the bathroom and when he emerged, he started masturbating in front of her, the court heard. When she threatened to take a photo of him, he became angry and started groping her, before they fell on the stairs and he raped her.

(He told her) he would give her the best 10 minutes of her life, Ms Walley said.

The front door remained open throughout the attack. The woman screamed throughout and the man threatened to kill her if she did not stop.

One of her house-mates heard her screaming and came to the landing of the house, where he witnessed the rape. Upon being seen, the man ran out of the house. He was arrested at a later date in Dublin.

In a victim impact statement read out in court by Ms Walley, the woman said: The protective layer around me has broken down and I have very little trust in humans.

She said she was now scared to be on public transport or in public places. As the man was raping her, the woman said: In that moment, I wished to be dead.

After this man raped me, I felt empty, as though nothing mattered.

The court heard the woman did not wish her attacker to be named as she doesn't want to destroy his life any more, Ms Walley said.

The man, who was living with another woman at the time of the rape, maintained throughout the trial that the sex was consensual.

He does not accept the verdicts of the jury and maintains his innocence, the court heard. He has three previous convictions, including two for abusive and threatening behaviour in public.

Colman Cody SC, defending, said his client was a productive member of society who arrived in Ireland in 2013 and worked mainly on fishing trawlers.

He has been in custody since his arrest and is a model prisoner, Mr Cody said. He urged the judge to be as lenient as possible.Over one million Trocaire boxes will be delivered to homes and schools across the country this week.

The charity's Lenten campaign is Ireland's largest fundraiser and saw 8.5m donated last year.Cash and cigarettes have been seized at Dublin Airport.

Officers detained 14,000 in cash on Saturday when they stopped a British woman in her twenties who was travelling to Eindhoven.

While on Sunday 30,000 in cash was found in the luggage of a Polish woman in her twenties who was travelling to Barcelona.

46,000 contraband cigarettes were also found in the luggage of four Romanian nationals who had arrived in Dublin on a flight from Istanbul.

- Digital DeskBy Ann O'Loughlin

A solicitor is not entitled to two separate payments under the free legal aid scheme for a client who he represented in relation to two separate alleged crimes, the High Court has ruled.

Mr Justice Charles Meenan refused to quash a District Court judge's decision to simply extend the certificate, approving payment to the solicitor, rather than grant two separate payment certificates.

Under the free legal aid scheme, a solicitor granted a legal aid certificate is entitled to payment of 201.50 for a first appearance in cases before the District Court with a payment of 120.88 in relation to each subsequent case. . A refresher fee of 50.39 is paid for subsequent days of hearing.

In April 2015, the solicitor's client appeared before Dublin District Court charged with assault and breach of the peace at a shop in Store Street, Dublin.

He was bailed to appear in court again a week later but failed to do so. A warrant was issued for his arrest and, on the same day the warrant was issued, he was again arrested in Clontarf and charged with theft from another shop. He was also charged with failing to answer his bail in relation to the first charges.

When he appeared in the District Court the next day, having been held overnight, he was granted free legal aid on all the charges now against him.

The solicitor he chose later asked the District Judge to assign a separate legal aid cert to cover the second set of offences, but the District Judge refused saying "one certificate is enough".

The solicitor challenged that decision in the High Court where it was argued he (solicitor) was not looking for a second certificate in relation to the same prosecution but was looking for a certificate in relation to a separate and distinct prosecution. The State opposed the challenge.

Mr Justice Meenan found the decision of the District Judge not to grant a separate legal aid certificate in this case was in accordance with law. The District Judge did not have legal authority to act otherwise, he said

In reaching his conclusion, Mr Justice Meenan said, he appreciated the effect that a single certificate decision could result in the solicitor having to do a significant amount of professional work for little return.

However, he added, this would have been mitigated by the fact that the solicitor's client pleaded guilty.The Taoiseach and British Prime Minister will travel to Northern Ireland later amid growing speculation that a deal to restore the power-sharing government is imminent.

Theresa May and Leo Varadkar will meet with Stormont's main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate.

A Downing Street spokesman said Mrs May would take part in a series of meetings at Stormont House and encourage Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionists to resolve their differences.

A spokesman for Mr Varadkar said he and Mrs May would assess the state of play in the negotiations between the parties.

In a sign that the dynamic at Stormont has shifted gears, the Taoiseach has cancelled a scheduled meeting with Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones in Dublin on Monday in order to head to Belfast.

Downing Street said Mrs May will tell the parties her government is ready to introduce legislation to enable the re-establishment of a devolved executive as soon as possible, if an agreement materialises.

Ahead of the meetings at Stormont, the British Prime Minister will visit a local business to meet staff and management.

Northern Ireland has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed.

However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is close.

Both parties publicly acknowledged on Friday that progress had been made.

On Saturday, Sinn Fein's Stormont leader Michelle O'Neill said talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an Executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a stand-alone piece of legislation to protect speakers - an Irish Language Act - but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.

Finding a compromise resolution to the thorny language dispute that will satisfy both parties is key to breaking the Stormont deadlock.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood warned that any deal to restore powersharing must end the cycle of political stand-off between Sinn Fein and the DUP.

Mr Eastwood said it is not enough to simply form a new executive.

"The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off, but very bad at the responsibility of government," he said.

"That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end."

Mr Eastwood added that when powersharing is restored, focus must return immediately to the threat posed by Brexit, the economy and the crises in the health service and school budgets.

- Digital DeskThe daughter of late French rocker Johnny Hallyday plans to contest her father's will, which leaves all his property and artistic rights "exclusively" to his widow Laeticia.

Laura Smet discovered the contents of Hallyday's will "with amazement and pain", a note from her lawyers said.A man who filmed himself punching a toddler in the face then sent the video to the girl's grandparents in England demanding money has been jailed for 17 years.

Deividas Subacius, 29, hit the 18-month-old girl causing significant swelling and bruising to her right eye.

He then sent the video to the girl's grandparents by text message and demanded 130 (146) or he would continue to harm the child.

The grandparents immediately called the police and Subacius was arrested.

Subacius, of Badgeney Road, March, admitted at Cambridge Crown Court to actual bodily harm, grievous bodily harm and blackmail, Cambridgeshire Police said.

Deividas Subacius.

He was jailed for 17 years on Friday.

During a physical examination doctors discovered eight healed fractures on the child including to her femur, wrist, collarbone and ribs.

Detective Constable Clemie Yaxley said: "This is the worst case of physical abuse in a child that I have had to deal with in my entire career.

"Had it not been for the grandparents acting in a protective manner the outcome would have been very different.

"I'm happy to say that the child is now being well cared for and has no significant lasting injuries as a result of this incident."Update 10.43pm: Residents who were evacuated following the discovery of an unexploded Second World War bomb near London City Airport can return to their homes, UK police said.

People living within the 214-metre exclusion zone in the London Borough of Newham were asked to voluntarily leave their property today while bomb disposal teams handled the 500kg ordnance.

Metropolitan Police said the 1.5 metre-long tapered-end shell, which was found 15 metres underwater in King George V Dock in east London on Sunday, has been moved.

It has been taken to a secondary position within the dock, the force said.

Royal Navy divers will work with police through the night to move the German general-purpose bomb down the River Thames and carry out a controlled explosion tomorrow morning.

The process will disrupt some late-night train services from St Pancras station.

The operation caused travel disruption at London City Airport, which closed today with more than 100 flights cancelled.

It is expected to reopen tomorrow, said CEO Robert Sinclair.

Earlier: Operation to neutralise unexploded WWII bomb near London City Airport to continue overnight

British police and Royal Navy teams will work through the night to transport the "powerful" 500kg Second World War bomb which has disrupted dozens of flights at London City Airport.

Bomb disposal experts will guide the 1.5m-long unexploded ordnance down the River Thames overnight using a flotation device, before attaching "high-grade military explosives" in a controlled explosion on Tuesday morning.

The German general purpose bomb was found grounded in the seabed 15 metres underwater at King George V Dock in east London on Sunday.

A 214-metre exclusion zone is in place and the airport will remain closed for the rest of the day, said Robert Sinclair, chief executive of London City Airport.

He said in a statement: "Any passengers due to fly today are urged not to come to the airport and to contact their airline for further information.

"I recognise this has caused inconvenience for our passengers, and in particular some of our local residents. The airport is co-operating fully with the Met Police, Royal Navy and London Borough of Newham to safely remove the device and resolve the situation as quickly as possible."

The airport is expected to reopen tomorrow, he added.

Lieutenant Commander Jonny Campbell, officer in charge of the diving unit which is disposing of the ordnance, said the bomb is being transported overnight to minimise disruption.

It will be exploded underwater and is unlikely to detonate before it is neutralised by his team.

He told the Press Association: "There's a long night ahead for quite a few people, not least my Royal Navy bomb disposal divers, using our tried-and-tested techniques to remove the threat."

He added: "We assess that we've got good control, that the bomb is in relatively good condition and so it's now that balance of yes, we want to take it away and remove it, but we want to make sure it's done properly."

A local couple who only gave their names as the Kullers said they were woken up at 2am by officers "banging on our door" asking them to evacuate.

The corner shop owners told the Press Association: "They're just doing their job, aren't they, they've got to think about our safety and decide what they're going to do. We've just got to carry on as best as we can."

All evacuations were optional, police said.Adventures by Disney has announced a new Japan vacation for 2019. The trip will offer immersive cultural experiences, such as visiting temples in Kyoto, learning sword techniques with a master samurai, exploring the bustling city of Tokyo and more.

The Adventures by Disney Japan vacation will open for booking later this spring, so more details on this trip will be announced in just a few months.

Post a CommentOxfam's deputy chief executive has quit in the wake of the aid worker sex scandal saying she was "ashamed" of what had happened.

Penny Lawrence said she took full responsibility for what had happened on her watch and was sorry for the "harm and distress" it had caused supporters.

Oxfam has faced intense criticism over its handling of sex allegations, including the use of prostitutes by workers in Haiti in 2011.

Ms Lawrence said: "As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility."

Penny Lawrence.

The resignation comes after claims on Monday that the charity was aware of concerns about the conduct of two of the men at the centre of the allegations in Haiti when they worked previously in Chad.

Ms Lawrence said: "Over the last few days we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed to adequately act upon. It is now clear that these allegations - involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad - were raised before he moved to Haiti."

She added: "I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfam's supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us."

Oxfam chiefs were called in for crisis talks with the UK's International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt following the claims of sexual misconduct by its staff.

Ms Mordaunt said on Sunday the charity had lied and failed in its "moral leadership" by failing to fully disclose details of its investigation into the misconduct to relevant authorities.

Penny Mordaunt.

The charity received 31.7m (35.7m) in British Government funding in 2016/17 but the support has been put at risk by the scandal.

Britain's Charity Commission director of investigations Michelle Russell said the watchdog was not told the full story at the time Oxfam first investigated allegations of misconduct in 2011.

She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "We've made very clear that had the details of what has come out over the last few days been told to us, we would have dealt with this very differently.

"We were categorically told there was no abuse of beneficiaries involved in the allegations. Nor were we told that there were issues or possible issues around possible crimes, including those involving minors."

Four members of Oxfam staff were dismissed and three, including the country director, Roland van Hauwermeiren, resigned before the end of the 2011 investigation.

According to The Times in England, Oxfam knew about concerns over the conduct of Mr van Hauwermeiren and another man when they worked in Chad before they were given senior roles in Haiti.

Mr Van Hauwermeiren's attitudes and behaviour towards women were documented, it said.

He also reportedly allowed the other man, a Kenyan, to stay in his job despite handling at least four complaints of sexual harassment or misconduct against him.

Oxfam chief executive Mark Goldring said: "I deeply respect Penny's decision to accept personal responsibility. Like us, she is appalled at what happened and is determined to do what is best for Oxfam and the people we exist to help.

"I would like to place on record my sincere thanks for the years of dedicated service that Penny has given to Oxfam and the fight against poverty around the world."Detectives in England investigating the disappearance of Madeleine McCann have applied for more funding for the search.

The British Home Office confirmed that it is considering an application from the Metropolitan Police for more money to keep the probe, called Operation Grange, going.A section of the Brisbane River will be closed off to the public after contamination was found at the site of an old tar processing facility.

An auditor was assessing a block at West End adjacent to the corner of Donkin and Buchanan Streets at Riverside Drive when a contaminate was found in the groundwater and about 40m from the riverbank, according to the Department of Environment and Science.

Aerial view of Riverside Drive, West End. Credit:Google Maps

Heavy metals, hydrocarbons and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), some of which are present in tar, were found at the site, which was being developed for residential purposes.

The site previously housed a coal tar processing facility, which closed in the 1980s, and was listed on Queensland's Environmental Management Register (EMR).If time stood still for the big banks when Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced the royal commission into misconduct in the financial services sector in November, it certainly picked up its pace on Monday.

Minutes before the first public hearing for the royal commission began on Monday the hands on the clock on the wall of the crammed hearing room at the Fair Work Commissions offices in Melbourne started spinning at an almighty clip.

It was a moment of near religious meaning for the bankers and their respective lawyers in the room wishing the whole matter would be over quickly and painlessly.

Its the fastest time will ever go in this room, a whispered voice uttered as the minute hand flew past the hour.The retired High Court judge said the commission asked the institutions in question to "amplify" their responses by 4pm on February 13.

Some, but not all, and none of them a small entity, have said they cannot respond within the time fixed ... The deadline cannot be met due to the amount of material that needs to be reviewed and assembled, Commissioner Hayne said.

It is a matter itself that will require further attention, Commissioner Hayne said.

Commissioner Hayne also encouraged members of the public to make public submissions after it emerged only a few hundred submissions had been received.

Last week, the royal commission said in a statement to Fairfax Media that it would not waive gag orders put on victims by banks.

In relation to the issue of non-disclosure provisions in settlements ... at this stage of the inquiry, we would not want individuals to provide information that may be in breach of legal obligations by voluntarily providing such information, a royal commission spokesman said last week in response to Fairfax Medias questions about non-disclosure and non-disparagement agreements.

Following the revelations by Fairfax Media, all big four banks waived the confidentiality agreements with people subject to settlement agreements.

Commissioner Hayne did not explicitly waive the confidentiality requirements on consumers but said legal action by a financial institution against someone called as a witness who had a settlement agreement would be in breach of the law.

Nationals senators remain unconvinced the warning from Commissioner Hayne will provide enough protection to witnesses.

It is understood Attorney-General Christian Porter is considering a proposal from NSW Senator John Williams that would see a seperate Parliamentary inquiry obtain information for the royal commission and provide protections for witnesses under Parliamentary privilege.

"I'm not going to sit back and have this classified as a grey area with people in fear of being sued for giving the commission important information," said Senator Williams.

The Financial Services Royal Commission was set up on November 30 by the Turnbull government after the big four banks gave their support to the inquiry.

The banks and the government had originally resisted the royal commission despite support for such an inquiry from members of the government, the ALP and the Greens.

Commissioner Hayne is to deliver an interim report on September 30 and a final report on February 1.Former US president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama have unveiled brightly-coloured portraits of themselves at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington.

Los Angeles artist Kehinde Wiley, who painted Obama, and Baltimore artist Amy Sherald, who painted Mrs Obama, are the first African-American painters to be commissioned to do presidential portraits.

Their works will become part of the only complete collection of presidential portraits outside the White House.

"Let's just start saying: 'wow'," Mrs Obama said after she and Sherald pulled a sheet off her portrait.The ABC has finally confirmed a controversial Sydney barrister will appear on Q&A to discuss the #MeToo movement.

Q&A sparked fierce debate last month after it was revealed Charles Waterstreet had been approached to speak on a panel about people's experiences with sexual assault. The 67-year-old was last year accused of harassing a 21-year-old law student, but has denied any wrongdoing.

Q&A unveiled the full lineup for it's upcoming #MeToo special on Monday. Waterstreet will appear alongside columnist Janet Albrechsten, Macquarie University academic Catherine Lumby, Melbourne lawyer Josh Bornstein and The Preatures frontwoman Isabella Manfredi.

Actor Rachel Griffiths will no longer appear on the panel. The Six Feet Under star last year defended Geoffrey Rush and said journalists should be more concerned about their own workplaces.A fear of flying prevented Tiffany Darwish from visiting Australia at the peak of her musical success  but now she hopes to tour Down Under.

"I was tired of my life being small [because I couldn't fly anywhere]," Darwish says. On Sunday, she became the first contestant voted off the current season of I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! (Campmates Bernard Tomic and Anthony Mundine have previously chosen to quit the show.)

Darwish wasn't always afraid of air travel. But early in her career, she caught a domestic flight from New York. It was a clear, sunny day  so everyone was caught off-guard by a freak windstorm, causing the plane to tip on its side and hurtle towards the ground.

"It literally did this," Darwish says, sticking her arms out to mimic the stricken aircraft. Drink trolleys  and unrestrained passengers  were tossed around the cabin like rag dolls. Others screamed, "We're all going to die!", which did little to calm the mood.Monday, February 12, 2018

Nancy Jo Roberts died with no family in Cincinnati to take care of her remains. After her death, her body was taken to a funeral home in Colerain Township, Ohio. Once the staff at the funeral home realized that Roberts was an indigent case, they passed her on to Premium Mortuary Services (Premium) located in Carlisle, Ohio. Premium was limited by Ohio law on what it could do with the body. Poul Lemasters, a death care attorney who represented Premium, said that all they could do was accept a body. ... Can't cremate. Can't bury. You hold her and keep her in the most dignified way you can. In all, Robertss corpse has been in storage for over a year. The family, once too busy to check regularly on Roberts, are now demanding answers. This is a valuable lesson for those with loved ones who have been relegated to once-in-a-decade visits in that it may be a good idea to pick up the phone every so often so they do not find themselves in a similar situation.

See Womans Body Held in Ohio Mortuary for More Than a Year, Fox News, February 2, 2018.

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/trusts_estates_prof/2018/02/womans-body-held-in-ohio-mortuary-for-more-than-a-year.htmlLaura Tingle has been made chief political correspondent of the ABC's 7.30 program.

The Walkley-award winning journalist, who is currently the political editor for The Australian Financial Review, will join the nightly current affairs program in the coming weeks. She said in a statement that after 35 years as a print reporter it was time for a new challenge.

Laura Tingle is moving to the ABC. Credit:Andrew Meares

"I am looking forward to exploring the very different opportunities that television provides to report on  and shine a light on  the workings of Australian politics and policy," she said.

Tingle is a panelist on the ABC's Insiders program and frequent guest on Radio National's Late Night Live. Her columns will now be published weekly on the national broadcaster's website instead of in the AFR.The number of prosecutions for illegal land clearing in NSW has dropped sharply, according to documents obtained under freedom of information laws.

The Berejiklian government, however, continues to withhold data on how much land has been cleared, particularly since its 2017 overhaul of native vegetation protection laws that environmental groups say loosened land-clearing restrictions.

Workers clearing trees in forest land.

The Liberal-National government, in power since 2011, commenced 10 land-clearing prosecutions in the 2014-15 financial year, a number that dived to just two in each of the subsequent two years, the documents from the Office of Environment & Heritage showed.

There have been no prosecutions started since the new laws came into force last August 25, according to the documents, which were obtained by Labor.President Donald Trump is fond of superlatives and hyperbole, particularly in regard to his view of himself. During his campaign, he took every opportunity he could to remind people that "no one respects women more than Donald Trump" (yes, often referring to himself in the third person). Now, old Grab-Em-By-The-Pussy has affirmed his support for women by openly siding with Rob Porter, a White House aide alleged to have physically and emotionally abused two of his former wives and a former ex-girlfriend, the supporting evidence for which includes a photograph of one of the women with a black eye. On February 11, shortly after Porter resigned, Trump tweeted:

People's lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation. Some are true and some are false. Some are old and some are new. There is no recovery for someone falsely accused - life and career are gone. Is there no such thing any longer as Due Process?

US President Donald Trump at a meeting in the Oval Office of the White House. Credit:Olivier Douliery

Let's just take a look at what he characterises as a "mere allegation" here. Porter's first wife, Colbie Holderness, alleges that Porter's physical abuse began on their honeymoon in 2003 but that, until a vacation to Florence in 2005, he had always been careful not to "leave marks". Photographs of the black eye Porter allegedly inflicted on Holderness during that holiday have been made public.

Porter's second wife, Jennifer Willoughby, filed for an emergency protective order against him in 2010. In April 2017, months before #MeToo and #TimesUp became the kind of global phenomenons that arouse suspicion in men like Trump (because of course men who call movements like this a "witch hunt" think that every allegation is part of a widespread collusion to destroy men's lives), Willoughby wrote a blog post describing the abuse she suffered during her marriage.Gold Coast residents were most likely to dob in someone doing the wrong thing across the state but that didnt equate to more arrests and charges in their areas, Crime Stoppers annual data has revealed.

And child pornography reports increased almost five-fold from 2016 to 2017.

Of the 56,683 anonymous reports to Crime Stoppers last year, Gold Coast central residents topped the list with 2165 reports, according to Crime Stoppers Queensland data released on Monday.

Despite this, Toowoomba topped the list of suburbs where the most arrests and charges were made, at 53 arrests and 126 charges.A 35-degree day without fans or airconditioning would be bad enough, but Eve Waters is facing those conditions 21 weeks into her pregnancy.

The 22-year-old Loganlea mother-to-be was one of the thousands who lost power during Sunday night's storm, which affected swathes of south-east Queensland.

Ms Waters said the heat was unbearable overnight had been without power since about 6.20pm.

It was really still after the storm and there was no sort of breeze, so it was really hot, Ms Waters said.Alleged paedophile Malka Leifer, a former school principal facing 74 charges of child sex abuse, has been arrested by Israeli police after a decade of fighting extradition.

Israeli authorities have accused Ms Leifer of faking a mental illness in order to avoid returning to Australia.

Malka Leifer has been arrested in Israel.

Ms Leifer fled to Israel in 2008 when allegations she had sexually abused girls at the ultra-orthodox Adass Israel School in Elsternwick, where she was principal, were first raised. She is wanted by Victoria Police on 74 counts of sexual assault and rape involving girls.

She was arrested by Israel police in 2014 when Australia applied for her extradition, but proceedings were dropped when a psychiatrist found Ms Leifer was unfit to stand trial.A former Guildford Grammar teacher who claimed he accidentally downloaded thousands of child pornography images reportedly dropped his head into his hands after a jury found him guilty on Monday.

Jeffery McKinnell was on trial in the Perth District Court accused of having 3009 images of child exploitation material on his laptop in May 2016.

Jeffery McKinnell has been found guilty of possessing child pornography. Credit:Heather McNeill

On Monday a jury convicted the 39-year-old of possessing child pornography.

The images found on McKinnell's laptop included 13 screen shots the state alleged he took from child pornography videos.Ask anyone in their late 50s about Neil Armstrongs small step on the moon and chances are they can tell you exactly where and when they saw that giant leap; July 20th, 1969. The day the world stopped and watched. Humanity had achieved the dream of generations, to walk on our celestial neighbour. For the US, in particular, it had bested its superpower rival, the USSR, in this race for technological superiority.

Then just a few years later it was all over. Gene Cernan became the Last Man on the moon when he boarded the Lunar Module of Apollo 17 and went home. The world turned and my generation now finds itself struggling to comprehend how a nation could achieve such feats, calculating with slide-rules not supercomputers and navigating on maps of paper not with GPS. The age of the heroes of Apollo, not just the astronauts but the 400,000 engineers, scientists and support staff who made it all possible, appears to be a thing of the past.

Neil Armstrong walks on the moon. Credit:NASA

At least, thats the story weve all been told. Its not the story I saw, as I toured the sites of a new moon race. Not between superpowers but start-ups. This is moon 2.0 and I think it will shock the world in the coming years as it changes how we explore, exploit, and expand into space. This is the real lesson of Apollo; if you want to stay on the moon and go beyond, you need to make it profitable and business will stay even when political focus doesnt.

This excitement about the value of space was palpable when I spoke at the International Astronautical Congress in Adelaide, seeing Australian start-ups such as FLEET rub shoulders with multinationals like Lockheed Martin, all with one thing in common - that our future prosperity as a species lies in space. Inspired by the activity of business I wanted to see the workshops of this new space race, and nowhere quite captures that spirit like the Mojave Spaceport in California. New fabrication techniques can 3D print engines, fuel tanks and even entire rockets to bespoke designs in days, not years like Apollo, and all at a fraction of the cost. I watched as small start-ups like Masten Space Systems and Interorbital competed with pioneering giants like Virgin Galactics Spaceship Company. This is the democratisation of space when all can participate not just the richest superpower, and even start-ups dream of sending robots to the moon to mine.One, major personal upheavals affect performance. There is no way that any human can leave his wife of decades and his four daughters and be able to carry out his public duties to the best of his abilities. No matter how detached Joyce has been from his family over the past 10 years, the level of disruption must be extreme. On top of that, he's been having an affair with a staff member. I'm unsure whether Joyce is different from the rest of us, but the hot beginning of a relationship sends your brain elsewhere.

Why is it important? Nowhere is it more clearly demonstrated than in the case of the (likely soon to be former) Deputy Prime Minister and member for New England, Barnaby Joyce.

And if that's too high a bar for the current crop of politicians, we need to get new ones.

Barnaby Joyce (far left) in June last year with media adviser Vikki Campion (far right). Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Two, when a politician brings his private life to the office, he or she has surrendered any right to privacy. Why? Voters need to know if a parliamentarian has breached their expectations. Having sex with an employee is an abuse of power; there should be repercussions. Perhaps the repercussions are yet to come but we wouldn't expect the AFL to have a better grasp of ethics and more appropriate responses than the federal government. But here it is: the AFL ditched senior men who were having inappropriate relationships with junior staff while the government did not  or not so far.

Australians could get lucky in the next day or so and find Joyce on the backbench, taking a year's parental leave after the birth of his baby. I'd guess that would also mean he would be spending more time with his own offspring than ever before. Or perhaps he could get a flexible job with Gina Rinehart. I hear mining's becoming more family-friendly these days.

The director of the Australian National University's Crawford school of public policy, Professor Helen Sullivan, puts it succinctly. "There should be clearer codes of conduct than there are ... If we are going to have a debate, what do we need to know as citizens and when do we need to know it? It should be a conversation about governance, ethics and the integrity of government."

And that's another reason, right there, why we should know about their private lives: when the private life in question leads to a failure of governance. I don't mean the "having sex with a staffer" kind of breach, I mean the kind of governance that leads to our money being spent in ways or for purposes that are not entirely transparent.ACT Liberal Senator Zed Seselja will push for the second stage of Canberra's light rail network to be referred to a parliamentary committee when the proposal goes before the Senate.

Light rail stage two will need to be approved by both houses of federal parliament as the route traverses Commonwealth land as it travels from Civic to Woden.

Liberal senator Zed Seselja. Credit:ABC

While the ACT government is confident the proposal will pass, Senator Seselja says he will agitate for an extra layer of scrutiny to be applied to the project.

"They didn't get the process right the first time around," he said.Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has publicly apologised to his estranged wife Natalie and their four daughters for the pain caused by his affair with a staffer, but has denied the relationship breached any ministerial rules.

Mr Joyce has also hit back at fresh allegations of misbehaviour at a 2011 awards night, hinting at potential legal action. He said the alleged incident "did not happen" and had been peddled by his political enemies for years.

"It's just in the past I don't believe it dignified a response. But today it's in the paper and as such I reserve all my legal rights as to what action I should pursue," he said in a brief statement to reporters at Parliament House.

He said he was "deeply sorry" for the hurt his affair with former media adviser Vikki Campion had caused his family.Oscar Jackson-Crosby never had a chance.

The five-day-old son of Sam Crosby - the executive director of Labor think-tank the McKell Institute, and Rose Jackson, the assistant secretary of NSW Labor - has been born into an ALP family.

So much so that his Dad, who nominated for the marginal federal seat of Reid on Friday, will square up to Small Business and Workplace Relations Minister Craig Laundy before Oscar is even one year old, in what shapes as a crucial contest that will help decide the winner of the next federal election.

Mr Crosby's nomination for the marginal seat of Reid has been widely expected in NSW Labor circles but if, as expected, he defeats Frank Alafaci for the nomination, he will have a tough time dislodging the popular and high-profile Mr Laundy.

Nominations also opened in the nearby marginal seat of Banks in Friday, demonstrating the NSW ALP is gearing up for a federal election that while due by May 2019, could be held much sooner.A Cambodian court has kicked seven Westerners out of the country, weeks after they were accused of "singing and dancing pornographically" at a party near the country's famed Angkor Wat temple complex.

Three of the people jailed during the mass arrest last month remain in custody, although all 10 have offered the same defence: That they were wearing "sexy" clothing and dancing at a party, but were not nude or producing pornography, as authorities have alleged.

A group of unidentified foreigners are accused of "dancing pornographically" at a party in Siem Reap, near Cambodia's famed Angkor Wat temple complex. Credit:Cambodia National Police

The case represents the latest clash between young foreigners who say they were blindsided by morality police and Cambodian officials who have been cracking down in recent years on Westerners they say are failing to respect the country's mores and sacred spaces.

The singing and dancing in question happened at a popular pool party event in January called Let's Get Wet, according to the UK Telegraph. The party was in Siem Reap, not far from the country's Angkor Wat complex. Almost 100 people attended, mostly Western tourists and expatriates.New York: In the hours after last summer's white power rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, erupted into violence, the planners of the protest mounted a defense: while much of the country may have found their racist chants and Nazi iconography deplorable, they claimed that they had a First Amendment right to self-expression, and that none of the bloodshed was actually their fault.

Six months later, that narrative of blamelessness, which started on the airwaves and the internet, is being tested in the courthouse.

Torch-bearing white nationalists rally around a statue of Thomas Jefferson near the University of Virginia campus in Charlottesville last year. Credit:New York Times

In a direct assault on the "alt-right" movement, a sprawling lawsuit contends that the leaders of the Charlottesville gathering engaged in a conspiracy to foster racial hatred, and are legally responsible for the 30 injuries and the death of a woman, Heather Heyer, that occurred.

"There is one thing about this case that should be made crystal-clear at the outset," the suit maintains. "The violence in Charlottesville was no accident."It will be a wearily familiar scenario to just about anyone with a pressing deadline who has found themselves up to their elbows in toner, frantically trying to pull a scrunched-up piece of A4 from a pair of stubborn rollers.

The story of how they unclogged a city's broken criminal justice system is told in the latest edition of The New Yorker, and a spokesman for the copier company said it was not just a throwaway line but that the engineers stood by their extraordinary claim.

New York. Engineers at Xerox have made a bold claim for their skills at unclogging printer jams: their expertise was responsible for a drop in Chicago's crime rate during the mid-Nineties.

John Viavattine, the head of Xerox's Media Technology Centre, told the magazine: "I was asked to go to Chicago to visit the Chicago children's court.

"This was the mid-Nineties, and a sales rep had put our printers - I think they were 400 Series - over at the court system. What was happening was, lawyers had to deliver certain court documents to the defence attorneys within a certain amount of time. Otherwise, the defendant was let go. They were losing two out of three cases because of paper jams."

As he told the story, he paused for emphasis. "Two out of three defendants were gone - walking out the door - because of paper jams."

Their investigations soon found the culprit. And it certainly wasn't their 400 Series printers. "The problem was that they were using some off-brand, really down-in-the-dumps paper," he said.

It was no doubt a memorable professional victory. But the tale grows bolder. Eric Ruiz, leader of the paper jam team, said: "Now you know why the crime rate in Chicago went down."Seoul: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un invited South Korean President Moon Jae-in to Pyongyang "at an early date", the presidential Blue House in Seoul said on Saturday, potentially setting up the first meeting of Korean leaders in more than 10 years.

The invitation came during talks and a lunch Moon hosted with Kim Yo Jong, the younger sister of the North Korean leader, at the presidential Blue House in Seoul.

Any meeting would represent a diplomatic coup for Moon, who swept to power last year on a policy of engaging more with the reclusive North.

The recent detente, anchored by South Korea's hosting of the Winter Olympic Games, came despite an acceleration in the North's weapons programme last year and pressure from Seoul's allies in Washington.Food Drink Ireland (FDI), the Ibec group that represents the food industry, today said the full implementation of the December Brexit deal was vital to protect complex all-island supply chains.

The group says the deal now needs to be put into a binding legal contract and that there can be no black-sliding on clearly agreed commitments.

At the launch of a new report Brexit: the challenge for Prepared Consumer Foods , which sets out the priorities of prepared consumer food companies in the next phase of negotiations, FDI said it was increasingly concerned at the direction of the UK political debate. They say the likelihood of a divisive, damaging divorce has increased, with the ruling out of a future EU-UK customs union.



A new survey of PCF companies highlighted the following key issues of concern:

Difficulty in sustaining existing low margin business in UK market

Negative impact of a further weakening of sterling and possible tariffs

Supply chain cost increases as a result of a UK exit from the customs union

Uncertainty leading to deferral of investment in innovation and plant and equipment



Commenting on the issue, FDI Director of Prepared Consumer Foods, Kevin McPartlan said, "If the UK insists on leaving a customs union with the EU it will result in a significant disruption to trade. While the December deal should protect all-island supply chains, new barriers to east-west trade with Britain would be a major blow to the Irish food industry. Prepared consumer food (PCF) companies are particularly exposed. The gross output of the Irish PCF sector is 4.5 billion, and 2.5 billion of that is exported. 65% of all PCF exports are to the UK."

He added, "Prepared consumer food companies are the life-blood of the Irish economy. They directly employ over 20,000 people and support the employment of many thousands more across the entire country, in small and medium enterprises as well as major multinationals. They depend on cross border supply chains and infrastructure, are prone to currency variation, rely on access to the UK market and need common regulatory regimes more than any other sector of the economy."

Source: www.businessworld.ie

Heineken NV, the world's second largest brewer, said on Monday its operating margin in 2018 would grow below the rate it had guided for between 2014 and 2017, citing a volatile market environment and an acquisition in Brazil.

The Dutch brewer, whose Heineken lager is the top seller in Europe, had a target of increasing its operating margin by 40 basis points per year between 2014 and 2017 and said it expected this margin to increase by 25 basis points in 2018. In 2017, margins expanded by 14 basis points.

"We expect the environment will continue to be marked by volatility and uncertainty," Chief Executive Jean-Francois van Boxmeer said in a statement.

Operating profit before one-offs in 2017 came in at 3.76 billion euros ($4.62 billion), a gain of 6.2 percent, and in line with the average forecast in a Reuters poll of 3.75 billion euros.

Heineken said it would pay a dividend of 1.47 euros per share for its 2017 financial year, a 9.7 percent increase from the previous payout to shareholders.

The brewer of Tiger and Sol lagers and Strongbow cider said beer volumes increased in all of its business regions in 2017, though growth in its European market was almost flat.

The European performance was impacted by Polish discounters selling smaller volumes and cool summer weather in most of its markets in the second half.

Heineken trades on a forward enterprise value to core profit (EV/EBITDA) multiple of about 12 times. That is above Danish rival Carlsberg, which has been hit by multiple problems in Russia, but below that of global leader Anheuser-Busch InBev, which has made acquisitions and cut costs but seen sales fall in the United States and Brazil. (Reuters)

Source: www.businessworld.ieBeijings streets will be patrolled by 700,000 people  including law-enforcement officers and red-armband-wearing retirees  following a Sunday knife attack at a downtown mall in which one person was killed and 12 others injured.

About 200,000 public-sector workers, police officers and security guards planned to fan out across the Chinese capital on 9 p.m. Monday as part of temporary security upgrades in the city, the state-owned Beijing Daily reported via its official WeChat social media account Monday. This deployment will be expanded to 700,000 on Tuesday, according to the newspaper, which is affiliated with the municipal branch of the ruling Communist Party.

A knife-wielding man went on a rampage at the popular Joy City shopping mall in the Xidan shopping district at about 1 p.m. Sunday, wounding three males and 10 females, one of whom died in a hospital. according to Beijing police. The other 12 were treated at a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

The 35-year-old assailant, originally from Central Chinas Henan province, reportedly told police that he launched the attack to vent his discontent.

Contact reporter Li Rongde (rongdeli@caixin.com)It will the latest in line to join the sub 4-metre SUV club and will be a petrol-only offering

D Dhruv Sep 14, 2021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.Willian Who took the field before Corinthians In Goiania for not fulfilling the quarantine period after landing in Brazil on...Bold Bulandshahr

ICR Research By

Published 12 February 2018

Shree Cement Ltd (SCL) has expanded rapidly over the last decade, from just 5Mt in 2007 to 29.3Mt cement capacity in 2017, making it the third-largest cement producer in India, after UltraTech and LafargeHolcim. Its cement plants are situated in the north of India with over half the capacity located in its home state of Rajasthan, where it is the market leader. ICR visited SCLs Bulandshahr grinding works, where modern technology enables the company to meet the demand of Indias most populous state, Uttar Pradesh.

Since 2015 SCL has served the large Delhi market and neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, Indias most populous state, from a 2Mta grinding plant at Sikandrabad, Bulandshahr. The plant manufactures mainly pozzolana Portland cement (PPC), sourcing its fly ash (pond ash) from the NTPC Dadri Power Plant, located 20km from the grinding station.

To continue reading this story and get access to all News, Articles and Video sections of the CemNet.com website, please Register for a subscription to International Cement Review or LoginCemex Latin American Holdings depressed by Colombia

ICR Newsroom By 12 February 2018

Cemex Latin American Holdings saw turnover decline by 5.5 per cent to US$1315.3m and EBITDA fell by 26.7 per cent to US$310.8m, with the margin coming down from 32.2 to 25 per cent. The trading profit deteriorated by 51.5 per cent to US$151.5m and after a further 0.6 per cent increase in financial expenses to US$63.3m and other items, the pretax profit dropped by 66.2 per cent to US$83.7m. After tax and minorities, the net attributable profit was 67 per cent lower at US$46.1m. The net debt was six per cent lower at US$882m, giving a gearing level of 57.3 per cent compared with 66.9 per cent a year earlier, with 63 per cent of the debt being long term.

The cement volume eased by 0.2 per cent to 7.45Mt and domestic deliveries of grey cement came off by 0.5 per cent to 6.54Mt. Aggregates shipments were 3.8 per cent lower at 6.99Mt and ready-mixed concrete deliveries were off by 5.6 per cent to 2.91Mm. The number of employees declined by 8.7 per cent to 4297.

In Colombia, the biggest single market, turnover declined by 15 per cent to US$565.6m and EBITDA dropped by 47.3 per cent to US$112.8m. Domestic cement deliveries were six per cent lower, while aggregates shipments fell by 17 per cent and ready-mixed concrete deliveries came down by 13 per cent. The price of cement declined by 17 per cent in US dollar terms and by 19 per cent in the local currency, while aggregates prices improved four per cent, but ready-mixed concrete prices eased by two per cent in local currency.

In Panama turnover improved by 3.9 per cent to US$266.3m, but EBITDA was off by 6.6 per cent to US$108.4m. Domestic cement deliveries showed a three per cent recovery, but this turned into a three per cent reduction in the final quarter. The cement operations also had to deal with higher fuel costs and a higher clinker factor as limestone from a different source was used. Aggregates shipments rose 13 per cent over the period but eased by one per cent in the final quarter with prices easing by four per cent over the year. Ready-mixed concrete deliveries were nine per cent ahead over the period, but 12 per cent lower in the final quarter with the average price being little changed.

In Costa Rica the turnover eased by 1.7 per cent to US$148.9m while EBITDA declined by 12.42 per cent to US$53.1m and the margin declined dropped from 40.1 to 35.7 per cent. Domestic cement deliveries recovered three per cent, but the price in US dollar terms was seven per cent lower, while in local currency the reduction was just three per cent. Aggregates shipments rose by 36 per cent, but the average price dropped by 50 per cent, while ready-mixed concrete deliveries improved by 11 per cent, but prices came down by 14 per cent.

Elsewhere in the region, which includes Nicaragua, Guatemala and El Salvador as well as an import operation in Brazil, turnover was 8.4 per cent higher at US$285.6m, but EBITDA improved by just 0.4 per cent to US$84.8m. Cement volumes increased by nine per cent, while prices were broadly stable. Aggregates volumes just over doubled following the previous years 66 per cent fall while the price declined by 16 per cent in dollar terms. Ready-mixed concrete volumes jumped by 45 per cent while prices were some 11 per cent lower.

Published underUnfortunately, cancer is the No. 1 cause of natural death among dogs, with 50% of canines over the age of 10 developing some form of it. Certain breeds are more likely to get sick than others. If you have a purebred, its important to be especially vigilant as your pup ages.

The good news: Half of all dog cancers can be cured if theyre detected early enough. Ahead, discover the most common warning signs that your dog may have cancer. And take special notice if your dog develops one kind of abnormal growth (on page 10).

1. Wounds that wont heal

Festering wounds are a sign that theres abnormal cell growth happening in your dogs body. An open wound or lesion that doesnt scab over or heal should be checked out by a vet immediately.

Next: If your dog falls, there could be a problem.



2. Collapsing

Its not normal for your dog to suddenly fall down from weakness. As Jake Zaidel, DVM at Malta Animal Hospital in upstate New York told Readers Digest, I see this particularly in large breed dogs  even if they fall down and seem better the next day, bring them in because it could signal a tumor of the spleen.

Next: Dont assume your dog has a cold.



3. Coughing

A few coughs here and there shouldnt be cause for alarm, especially with small breeds who are prone to windpipe issues. But if you notice a persistent cough in your dog that lasts several days, then its time to visit your vet. It could be an early sign of lung cancer.

Next: This obvious sign could point to stomach cancer.



4. Rapid weight loss

You already know your dog loves to eat  so if he stops, you should be concerned.

According to Dr. Zeidel, the number one symptom of a gastrointestinal tumor in your dog is rapid weight loss. Many dogs stop eating when they contract this form of cancer.

Even if your dog is still maintaining his appetite but is losing weight, its a good idea to get him checked out. Some cancers cause weight loss even if your dog is eating normally.

Next: Heres an overlooked place you should always check on your dog.



5. Mouth changes

It may not be top of mind to check inside your dogs mouth, but you should make it a habit to ensure you catch any indicators of oral cancer. Many people miss the warning signs because they forget to look for abnormalities and dont notice them until its too late.

Sores, lumps, odors, bleeding, and gum color changes can all be signs of mouth cancer, especially in older dogs.

Next: This should never happen to your dog.



6. Nosebleeds

You might get a harmless nosebleed when the air is dry. But when your dog has a nosebleed, its an indication of a bigger problem.

For a younger dog with a nosebleed, the likely cause may be an injury. But older dogs that get a nosebleed could have nose cancer.

Next: If this symptom persists, call the vet.



7. Changes in bathroom habits

Theres no need to panic the next time you notice that your dog has diarrhea  he most likely got into your candy stash when you werent looking. But if you notice a long stretch of loose stools, bloody urine or poop, or if hes struggling to go or asking to go out more often than usual, its time to schedule a vet visit immediately.

Next: This could be a symptom of tumors.



8. Discharge

Continuous discharge from the nose or eyes could signal facial or eye tumors lurking beneath the surface. Always mention these types of concerns to your vet.

Next: A brain tumor often presents this way.



9. Seizures

A brain tumor in dogs often presents in the form of seizures, especially in older dogs. If you notice your dog having uncontrollable bursts of activity such as chewing or leg jerking, or if you see him foaming at the mouth, you need to call your vet immediately.

Next: This kind of growths are a huge indicator of canine cancer.

10. Tumors or abnormal growths

One of the first things people think of when they hear the word cancer is, tumors. However, not all lumps you find on your dog are cancerous.

Some breeds are more likely than others to develop fatty tumors or other harmless lumps on their bodies. It is vital to get them checked out to ensure theyre benign, though. Be sure to keep an eye out for any new growths and never ignore a potentially cancerous tumor on your dog.

Next: You might want to notify your groomer to watch out for this, too.



11. Skin changes

It can be hard to detect changes in your dogs skin underneath their fur. Make it a habit to give your canine companion a rubdown and systematically look for sores, lesions, or other changes in the color or appearance of his skin and take those findings to your vet.

Next: Dont ignore when this common thing happens to your dog.



12. Weight gain

Whether its from an increased appetite or bloating, unexpected and rapid weight gain could signal a real problem. Its always best to get it checked out by a professional immediately.

Next: Your dog may be trying to tell you something.



13. Pain or discomfort

Whining or crying when you touch a certain spot is a clear indicator that your dog has an issue. Mouth tumors might make it visibly difficult for your dog to eat. Schedule a vet visit right away when you notice this problem with your pooch.

Next: Pay close attention to this behavior change.



14. Lameness

If you notice your dog favoring one leg or another, or any changes in gait, it could be a sign of bone cancer. Head to the vet for a definitive diagnosis if you notice this change in behavior.

Next: This is a scary side effect of cancer.



15. Difficulty breathing

If you notice your dog struggling to breathe or wheezing, its a cause for concern and could be an early sign of canine cancer. You know what to do  call the vet.

Next: Heres what happens after your dog gets diagnosed.



16. Your dog has cancer  now what?

Cancer doesnt necessarily mean a death sentence for your dog. Most types of canine cancer respond to treatments such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. Some medical facilities are even testing immunotherapy tumor vaccines.

The faster you can detect and diagnose cancer, the better off your dog will be. Pay attention for any of the common symptoms and dont be afraid to visit the vet even if you just notice your dog is acting a little strangely. Your vigilance could save his life.

Read more: The 15 Least Healthy Dog Breeds

Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook!For Subscribers Soundscapes of the People to document musical history in Pueblo

Musical traditions spanning Pueblo's diverse cultural populations and how they've made music together is focus of new program.Want to know what time to light Shabbat candles? Check your local sunset time. But what if the sun doesnt set? And what if theres no nightfall? In the land of the midnight sun these arent hypothetical questions. They are real conundrums that newly appointed Chabad representatives to Iceland are sorting out as they prepare to relocate to the last major capital in Europe without a rabbi or synagogue.

The first Jewish presence in this Nordic country appears in a 1940 census, with only nine Jews recorded. Icelands Jewish population has never numbered more than a few hundred, a tiny fraction of a percent of its tiny national population of 332,529smaller than that of Tampa City, FL.

But theres been a growing interest among a diverse group of local Jews, particularly young families, to cultivate a Jewish community in Reykjavik. And a recent tourism boom has been bringing millions of visitors (outnumbering the countrys population of seven to one) to experience its northern lights, its volcanoes and lava fields. It seems a good time, say Avi and Mushky Feldman, to be setting down roots in the land of fire and ice.

Local Jews have tried to make a go of it. According to Mike Levin, a Chicago native in Reykjavik for thirty years, they have made efforts to celebrate the holidays together. But without the necessary infrastructure, he says, its a lot of work to arrange, and if one or two people dont take care of it, it doesnt happen. Im very glad to hand the responsibility over to Chabad!

Chabad will be working along with the community, building upon what they have achieved. The people we met here have pulled together without any infrastructure or leadership, says Avi. Thats inspiring to us, and we feel privileged for the opportunity to work with them. Mushky, the daughter of Chabad emissaries to Gothenburg, Sweden, is no newcomer to Scandinavian culture and expects to feel right at home among Icelanders.

The local Jewish population, like Reykjaviks general population, is young and diverse. Some descend from several generations of Jews whove been living in Iceland, and many are transplants from almost every continent. They have made their home here drawn to the countrys beauty, surprisingly mild climate, Reykjaviks hip vibe and good quality of life .

The Feldmans, who plan to move in the spring, got a bit of a head-start thanks to the efforts of Chabads Berel and Naftali Pewzner, rabbinical students who have been visiting the community, leading Passover seders and the High Holiday services since 2010. At a recent communal Passover seder, local Jews were surprised at the turnout of 100 people. They hadnt expected to meet so many kindred souls. It made people realize the need for something permanent, says Avi. Were sure that once we get things going here, it will generate wider interest in Jewish life.

Sigal Har-Meshi, an Israeli jewelry maker living in Iceland since 1986, is hoping the new Chabad presence will stimulate a much needed boost of Jewish pride. In a community with such small numbers, made smaller yet by the very few Jews who openly identify as Jewish, its hard to work up enthusiasm. Chabad, she expects, will encourage Jews to feel more comfortable with their identity.

So what to do about Shabbat candle lighting times? And when does Shabbat end during those white nights when the sun doesnt drop low enough below the horizon, only to come back up again before it ever gets dark?

These are all fascinating challenges, but they are manageable, says the rabbi. The latest sunset is at 11:45 p.m. So we will bring Shabbat in roughly two hours earlier and light candles at about 9:30. And at its latest, Shabbat ends at sunrise, which would be 1:30 Sunday morning.

Other logistics may be more daunting. Not part of the EU or continental mainland, Iceland is approachable only by sea or air, making travel and the import of kosher food complicated. Add to that a recent proposal of a bill to ban circumcision, strict government regulation of meat, and the complete absence of kosher awareness, and the Feldmans will need to become adept at planning ahead and organizing well. They will face challenges, but they will be able to do it, says Mike. Its what Chabad does, agrees Sigal.

Jewish education will be an important focus for the Chabad emissaries. With a high assimilation rate, they will work on several fronts teaching Judaism, which has yet to be officially registered with the government as a state-recognized faith. We will offer group and one-to-one classes on Jewish themes, the Jewish calendar year, life cycle events, and basic Hebrew reading, says Mushky. The women in particular, she notes, are especially interested in events and classes we are planning for them. As well, the community can look forward to lively Shabbat and holiday celebrations and illuminating opportunities for exploring and experiencing living Judaism.

Lamplighters with a mission, the Feldmans have found their calling just below the Arctic circle where they will open the worlds northernmost Chabad center. Its a dramatic move for the young couple now living in Brooklyn. Northern lights, the midnight sun and black sand beaches are alluring to be sure, but most appealing of all, says Avi, is the chance to create a life and a community among Icelanders. Having learned to live with 20 hours of darkness a day (December), who better than they can appreciate the gift of light?



This is a very special episode of The Chris Loves Julia podcast. Instead of our usual banter about DIY, Home Design and family, we interviewed four successful interior designers that are all self taught. Amber Lewis, Jenny Komenda, Shea McGee and Brian Patrick Flynn all open up about everything from their education backgrounds (in some cases, dropping out of school) to advice they would give to anyone trying to break into the field.

Listen to this and other episodes on: iTunes, GooglePlay, Stitcher, TuneIn.

Heres a little more about the four self-taught designers we interviewed:

1. Amber Lewis | Principal at Amber Interior Design and founder and CEO of the blog, Amber Interiors.

Based in California, but designing all over the world, Amber makes her signature casual California design look effortless, cool, cozy, eclectic and unique.

Find her (and her amazing work) at amberinteriordesign.com , @amberinteriors on instagram, and check out her shoppe to get her signature look in person (in Calabasas) or online here.

2. Jenny Komenda | Interior designer and the owner of Juniper Studio, Jennys Print Shop and founder of the blog, Little Green Notebook.

Phoenix based, Jenny has been blogging about interiors since 2007! Her style is approachable, eclectic and the perfect mix of splurge pieces with budget-friendly DIY (shes the queen!) mixed in.

Find more of Jennys work at juniper-studio.com, littlegreennotebook.com, @jennykomenda on Instagram, and her digital print shop jennysprintshop.com.

3. Shea McGee | Co-Founder and Creative Director of Studio McGee and McGee & Co.

Utah based, Sheas bright and clean aesthetic has attracted a wait-list of clients and originally, no idea how to handle the workload. Studio McGee was created in a spare bedroom with lots of big ideas and no room for fabric samples and has grown into a massive empire.

Find more of Sheas work at Studio-mcgee.com, watch their web series here, through their McGee & Co Shop and on instagram @studiomcgee.



4. Brian Patrick Flynn | Television producer turned interior designer. Founder of FlynnsideOut Productions, a full service production company specializing in lifestyle-related content.

Atlanta based, Brians style can best be described as soft-masculine and characterized by a unique mix of design styles, modern and classic art, unconventional color schemes and practical budgets. The designer primarily resides in Atlanta but frequently retreats his two alternate residences, the country home in the mountains of north Georgia and a Scandinavian pied-a-terre in Reykjavik, Iceland for creative inspiration.

Find more of Brians work on HGTV.com here, through his production company Flynnside Out, and on Instagram @bpatrickflynn.

The 6 questions you can expect to hear answered in this episode are:

 What is your education background?

 When did you realize design was something you wanted to do professionally and how did you make that shift?

 How did you grow your business, get clients, get noticed!?

 What role does social media play in your business?

 Whats something you still want to learn?

 What advice do you have for others wanting to break into the field?

This Episode is Sponsored by:





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SaveSaveAuthorities in Sudan yesterday demolished a church building in North Khartoum, sources said.



The 64 members of the Evangelical Church in Al Haj Yousif in the Sudanese capital will have no place to worship next Sunday after land officials sent a bulldozer accompanied by police to tear down their building without prior notice, according to one of the churchs leaders. Police on three trucks arrived at the church compound accompanied by a bulldozer just a few hours after the end of Sunday worship, the leader said.



They took everything from the church, she said.



Officials told church leaders that the church was demolished because worship created public disturbances, but Christian leaders said the church sat on land that the government is helping a Muslim business interest to seize.



Leaders of the Evangelical Church in Al Haj Yousif said the Muslim who claims ownership of the church property has forged documents showing ownership. They said the church has owned the property since 1989, and that a judge last year verbally confirmed its ownership.



With police at the ready in case of potential confrontations, the bulldozer began demolishing the structure by noon. Eyewitnesses said police confiscated chairs, tables and Bibles before the demolition.



One Christian called for rights organizations to pressure the Sudanese government to return the confiscated items.



We urge all activists and human rights supporters around the world to denounce this move and demand for the return of the confiscated property of the church, Christian activist Samaan Mahajoub wrote on his Facebook page on Sunday (Feb. 11).



A court dispute about ownership of the church site is still pending in court.



The Rev. Yahia Abdelrahim Nalu of the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church (SPEC) confirmed the demolition.



These crazy actions will not stop us from praying and praising God! he told Morning Star News. God is Almighty.



The incident has attracted widespread outrage among Christians in Sudan, with many saying it directly shows hatred of Christians.



In its campaign to rid the country of Christianity, Sudan has designated at least 25 church buildings for destruction, claiming they were built on government lands, Christian leaders said.



On Feb. 5 a court fined seven Christians for defending church properties.



Harassment, arrests and persecution of Christians have intensified since the secession of South Sudan in July 2011. The Sudanese Minister of Guidance and Endowments announced in April 2013 that no new licenses would be granted for building new churches in Sudan, citing a decrease in the South Sudanese population.



Sudan since 2012 has expelled foreign Christians and bulldozed church buildings on the pretext that they belonged to South Sudanese. Besides raiding Christian bookstores and arresting Christians, authorities threatened to kill South Sudanese Christians who do not leave or cooperate with them in their effort to find other Christians.



Sudan fought a civil war with the south Sudanese from 1983 to 2005, and in June 2011, shortly before the secession of South Sudan the following month, the government began fighting a rebel group in the Nuba Mountains that has its roots in South Sudan.



Due to its treatment of Christians and other human rights violations, Sudan has been designated a Country of Particular Concern by the U.S. State Department since 1999, and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom recommended the country remain on the list in its 2017 report.



Sudan ranked fourth on Christian support organization Open Doors 2018 World Watch List of countries where Christians face most persecution.





If you would like to help persecuted Christians, visit http://morningstarnews. org/resources/aid-agencies/ fo r a list of organizations that can orient you on how to get involved.



If you or your organization would like to help enable Morning Star News to continue raising awareness of persecuted Christians worldwide with original-content reporting, please consider collaborating at http://morningstarnews.org/ donate/ ?Israel shot down an Iranian drone sent from Syria and then launched a counterattack where one Israeli fighter jet was lost.

According to Israeli Defense Forces, an Israeli helicopter shot down the Iranian drone after a raid on the Syrian base where the drone was located.

Israel then launched four F-16s that hit 12 Iranian and Syrian targets.

In response, the Syrians launched a massive anti-aircraft defense where one of the Israeli jets was shot down.

This is the most blatant and severe Iranian violation of Israeli sovereignty in the last years, IDF spokesman Jonathan Conricus told reporters Saturday. Thats why our response is as severe as it is.

Iran has denied sending a drone into Israel.

The enemys claims that the drone has entered the airspace of occupied Palestine are sheet lies, Iran forces said in a statement.

However, Israeli officials released a video showing the drone being shot down.

The Iranian drone fell in our territory and is in our possession, IDF spokesman Ronen Manelis said.

Iran, meanwhile, says it shot down the F-16.

The era of Israeli strikes on Syria is over, an Iranian official said, per the Times of Israel.

Photo courtesy: Thinkstock/MatthewBrousseau

Publication date: February 12, 2018Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) is the second largest Presbyterian denomination of the United States of America. It is supposed to be the largest conservative Presbyterian and/or Reformed body in the country with a focus on what the Scriptures of the Holy Bible says and commands. In fact, the PCA came into existence because of the progressivism that the Presbyterian Church in the United States was embracing back in the late 1960's and early 1970's.

The corruption did its damage in the PCUS and the true Bible believers could no longer stay in the PCUS, so enter the PCA. In 1983 the PCUS would merge with the United Presbyterian Church in the United States of America (UPCUSA) becoming the Presbyterian Church (USA), and with the merger progressive thought continued to move forward in spite of a recent split in 2012 which created ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians. For the record the UPCUSA dealt with their own split in 1981 prior to their merger with PCUS. That split created the Evangelical Presbyterian Church or EPC which still exists to this day.

Now that I have given a quick history lesson on the PCA and the other major Presbyterian dominations, we need to focus on one PCA church leader, his run for the governorship of Texas, his pro-abortion baby murder stance, and the need for the PCA truly push back if not run the man out of the church body should it come to that.

This PCA leader is an elder at Christ the King Presbyterian Church in Houston, Texas. His name is Andrew White and his family is no stranger to politics. His late father Mark White was governor of Texas for a single term from 1983 till 1987. He failed to win a second term in which Bill Clements was able to win back the governorship which he lost to Mark in 1982. Clements decided to retire after that second nonconsecutive term. Both father and son were and are committed to the Democratic party, and while we have to be careful about mixing political parties with the faith of Christian church (i.e. PCA or any other Bible believing church body does not equal Republican party nor Democratic party), there are certan things that those who call themselves Christians should be holding up; in spite of the arguments of church-state separation.

As I stated in a previous piece and based on the history of the founders of Freedom From Religion Foundation I feel the real purpose of FFRF is to cleanse the culture of the Christian faith because it will make it easier for the Pro Abortion/Baby Murder cause to advance with little resistance.

Secularists might praise the likes of Andrew White who will separate themselves from their faith more/less. White claims to be a "common sense conservative" Democrat but when it comes to abortion/murder of the preborn, he said in an interview with Texas Public Radio's KSTX in San Antonio. "I support Roe v. Wade 100 percent. It's the law of the land. We just celebrated the 45-year anniversary of that...I'll go one step further and say that when I'm governor, I will veto any of this legislation coming out that limits a woman's right to choose."

I would personally would disagree with him on his support of Medicaid expansion and what the role of government in our lives should be. I would find the term conservative Democrat very misleading not just on abortion but in many other areas. I find him to be another shill and cog in the Democrat party machine based on the way he talks in the KSTX interview. Looking at a piece on White in the Houston Chronicle he seems to have no problem with same sex marriage and the LGBTQ agenda being taught to children, not to mention that he does not care about keeping transgenders out of the restrooms based on the gender they were naturally born into. This tells me that White is a very dangerous person and actually would hinder the Gospel of Jesus Christ as a Christian while advancing a more pagan culture that will only cause more damage to our society.

Should we uphold slavery if that is the law of the land, and should Christians in political office just say, well the Bible says its wrong but hey it's the law of the land. No, you try to fight to change that someway and somehow. Our elected officials, judges and bureaucrats can get things wrong and usually they do. The same should go for abortion and contrary to White's convictions and his live and let live mentality, more government funding in sex education is not going to reduce the need for abortion. Planned Parenthood's bread and butter is pre-born baby murder...pure and simple, and their sex education propaganda will also encourage young people to engage in sexual activity in hopes that they can get many abortions out of them. The only way to curb abortion/pre-born baby murder is to grant personhood to the unborn child and make abortion a crime once more with severe penalties for those who attempt preborn baby murder.

Proverbs 24:11-12 commands God's people (Jews and Christians alike) to rescue those who are being taken away to death. Exodus 23:7, Deuteronomy 27:25 and Proverbs 17:15 makes it quite clear that God forbids the killing of innocent people.

Thank goodness for pastor Todd Pruitt of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Harrisonburg, Virginia; and his open letter to Andrew White and pointing key Scriptures about how the human race especially those in the womb of the mother are created in the image of God. Psalm 17:14 and 139:13-16; Isaiah 44:2; Jeremiah 1:5; and Luke 1:41-45. Looking at church history in which they actually stepped in to save babies who were abandoned and left to die, and even the reminder of upholding the sixth commandment of God to "not murder" as pointed out in the Westminster Larger Catechism.

To top it off, Pruitt reminds White of the 1978 ad interim committee on abortion which makes it clear that the PCA is opposed to abortion all the way. To date since Roe vs. Wade over 60 million preborn were killed by abortion and that is a much greater statistic than the six million killed by Nazi Germany.

Pastor Pruitt must do more than just pray. He needs to call upon Christ the King Presbyterian Church and see to it that White repents and actually uphold God's commands not to murder the innocent and also rescue them from unnecessary death. Forget about what the Democrats support (or even what President Donald Trump and the Republicans support), but rather what God supports when it comes to life and death issues and even marriage. If White does not repent, then his local church MUST excommunicate him. If White's church fails at any of this, then the greater PCA church body must step in and bring Christ the King Presbyterian Church to account and if necessary disfellowship the church. It will be churches like White's that will only corrupt the PCA and cause yet another denomination split in the much-fractured Presbyterian/Reformed churches in America.

Also remember these words of Jesus from his Sermon on the Mount; "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.

"Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. -" Matthew 5:17, 19 ESVEmail Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

A recent Associated Press article had the headline in the Chicago Tribune: "More Teens Identify as Transgender, Study Shows." The study, done by researchers at the University of Minnesota, was on healthcare utilization by transgender and gender nonconforming youth (TGNC). In their sample the percentage of teens who identified as TGNC was 2.7 percent, a small percentage of the population, but indeed larger than the estimate of 0.7 percent cited from a 2017 study. Why would the AP run with a point that was not the focus of the original research, and should we accept this at face value?

By focusing on the larger than expected number of teens who do not view their psychological experience as consistent with their biological sex, the AP is attempting to make gender nonconformity appear normal and thus something that should be accepted and even celebrated. There is a desire to paint a picture of psychological wholeness in this population, with the cause of any deviations from psychological wholeness being attributed to the actions of those who refuse to properly celebrate and accept diversity.

The TGNC group in the Minnesota study was comprised of those who affirmatively answered the question, "Do you consider yourself transgender, genderqueer, gender fluid, or unsure about your gender identity?" This question is far broader than the headlines generated by users of the AP story. Being unsure is not the same as being transgender. The teens are going through a stage of life characterized by uncertainty and may eventually come to be content with a gender identity that is consistent with their biology. This would be consistent with the estimate of 0.6 percent of adults reporting as transgender in the cited 2017 study.

The Minnesota study does indeed report that more TGNC youth reported mental health problems than youth who were content with their biological gender. It is important to note that the data do not allow us to determine the degree to which these mental health problems were caused by perceived discrimination, actual bullying, or whether the comorbid conditions predated the TGNC status. The analysis also failed to control for the TGNC youth being more likely to come from poor families. It is well established that poverty increases the risks of having mental health problems.

From the introduction of the study itself: "misperceptions of a person's gender expression may result in a young individual feeling as if their gendered experience is negated or not affirmed." If you fail to correctly identify a teen's personal experience with gender, you are harming the person. But how can one correctly identify the wide ranges of reported gendered experiences?

At the movement level what we are seeing is an act of anti-creation. The societal influencers feel constrained by the created order of male and female and encourage people to express their uniqueness. A search for "how many genders does Facebook recognize" results in a range of 51 to 71. Teens in general, and teens with existing mental health issues in particular, will be especially vulnerable to these pressures.

During adolescence it is common for people to have a false sense of uniqueness; this is known in psychology as the personal fable. Teens often believe that others, especially parents, cannot possibly understand them. In addition adolescence is time of identity seeking as we try to figure out just who we are and where we fit in. If our favorite social media site gives us dozens of gender options, of course some of us have to be unsure of , or even confused about our gender to the point that we deny physical reality. Certainly Facebook has more credibility about the nature of gender than stodgy old mom and dad.

Research on today's teens shows that they feel less connected to society and more isolated than did teens from previous decades. Because today's teens, on average, have never experienced the sense of belonging that their parents and grandparents had, they may not fully understand what is missing while still longing for connection and community.

Joining a subculture has long been a method by which people learn where they fit and find community. With the increasing exposure of the TGNC community in popular culture, it is not surprising that some teens are exploring the subculture of the TGNC community. In this community teens will be affirmed and celebrated as brave for rising above the traditionally imposed binary approach to gender. Indeed with as much press as the TGNC community is getting these days, it is surprising that far more teens are not questioning the status of their gender.

For Christians the response is clear. We must guide and disciple young people while keeping them grounded in the reality that God made us male and female. The Associated Press may want us to celebrate rejections of reality. But only when we begin with reality can we help young people consider who God made them to be and help them to find their place in our community.

Dr. Joseph J. Horton is professor of psychology at Grove City College and the Working Group Coordinator for Marriage and Family with The Center for Vision & Values. He is also a researcher on Positive Youth Development.Cardinal Vincent Nichols: 'We will not be deflected' from tackling human trafficking

Cardinal Vincent Nichols has said that he 'will not be deflected' from his commitment to combat human trafficking, and that he is 'hopeful', speaking at the Vatican over the weekend.

'We are doing this for the sake of victims and survivors and we will not be deflected,' the Cardinal, who is president of the Santa Marta Group aimed at tackling modern slavery, told the website ZENIT in an interview.

Cardinal Nichols was speaking after a press conference held by the group, which was launched in 2014 by Pope Francis, alongside others including Cardinal Charles Bo, the Archbishop of Yangon, Myanmar, and Cressida Dick, the commissioner of the London Metropolitan Police. The group had met with Pope Francis previously.

The Santa Marta Group is an alliance of international police chiefs and bishops from around the world working together with civil society in a process endorsed by Pope Francis, to eradicate human trafficking and modern day slavery. The Pope has described trafficking as 'an open wound on the body of contemporary society'.

The group was developed by the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and Wales. In April 2014, it first met in Rome when police chiefs and Catholic bishops came together, in the presence of Pope Francis, whose home it is named after. It now has members in over 30 countries.

Cardinal Nichols said: 'I would like everybody to understand that human trafficking takes place in every country. There are 42 million people forced into modern slavery. Everyone must understand that there are probably people who are working as slaves in the vicinity of where they live. Every country is a place from which people are taken and to where people are taken. My first encounter was an English woman who had been trafficked for prostitution in Italy. And it was not how I envision human trafficking, but the reality.

He added: 'If I could convey to you some of the dedication and passionate commitment in the last couple of days in the Santa Marta Group, you would feel a bit hopeful.'Duggar family news: Pregnant Kendra Duggar experiencing lots of morning sickness

"Counting On" star Joseph Duggar and his wife, Kendra, might be over the moon now that they are expecting their first child - a son - this year, but Kendra recently admitted that being pregnant is quite the challenge for her.

"During my pregnancy, I've had a lot of morning sickness and I think it's slowly subsiding. But other than that, it's been good," Kendra said in a TLC video.

Still, the Christian couple is focusing on the positive aspect of this journey. Kendra initially thought they were "gonna have a girl," but she was happy nonetheless that they are expecting a boy. "I'm excited about all of the little outfits you can put on him and the little bowties," she shared.

Her husband, on the other hand, had a hunch that their first child will be a boy.

"I had said that I thought we would probably have a boy, but I was still surprised that I was actually right on that," he said. "I think the thing that most excites me about having a son is that I'm going to be able to raise him up, teach him a lot of things that I do and I think that a lot of our interests will probably be similar."

They are currently planning to decorate their nursery with a blue motif, since they initially chose to play it safe with colors.

"Right now, the nursery color scheme is more greys and white, but we'll probably end up putting a little more touches of blue in there," explained Kendra. "We have not shopped for any baby clothes yet. I figured we'll do that after we found out the gender, so I guess we can start now."

When they first announced their pregnancy, Joe said that he would love for the baby to inherit Kendra's playful laugh, while Kendra prayed the baby would grow up to be "patient like Joe."Ivanka Trump discusses government's top 2018 initiatives with Franklin Graham, other U.S. evangelical leaders

A lot of well-known figures from the evangelical community have the ear of President Donald Trump, and even his daughter, Ivanka, appears keen to listen to their counsel.

A group of evangelicals comprised of Franklin Graham, Pastor Greg Laurie of Harvest Christian Fellowship, Pastor Robert Jeffress of First Baptist Dallas, Pastor Paula White of New Destiny Christian Center, Bishop Harry Jackson of Hope Christian Church, and Pastor Jack Graham of Prestonwood Baptist Church, met with Ivanka and several White House officials on Thursday afternoon last week after the National Prayer Breakfast.

Johnnie Moore, the former senior vice president of communications at Liberty University, told The Christian Post that Ivanka invited them to "discuss what was on their minds."

"She also, at our request, talked a bit about some of the administration's priorities of 2018 and some of the highlights in 2017. That was the point of the discussion," Moore added.

The meeting was supposed to last for just one hour, but the evangelical figures had such a stimulating conversation with Ivanka that it lasted almost two hours inside the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. "In 2017, the administration really exceeded our expectations on what they were able to accomplish in a such a short period of time," Moore explained. "We thought that we would be working on these issues for another four years."

They talked about Trump's bipartisan initiatives, which involved criminal justice reform, paid family leave, and workforce development. Someone from the group even said that it was "a real joy" to finally work on things that they truly care about.

"It seems like, politically speaking, for so many years, we spent so much energy into just surviving because of the very real religious liberty concerns. But these are actually the areas that are our principal focus and the things that we are most passionate about," said Moore.

Some of the evangelical leaders posted about their meeting, and one of them was Laurie. On Twitter (@greglaurie), the pastor said he had a great time talking to Ivanka and added that their meeting was "very informative."NVIDIA rumors: Company to announce GTX 2080 flagship GPU for release in April

Graphics processing unit (GPU) giant NVIDIA might be on to something big this year, as rumors point to its next flagship GPU being announced sometime in April.

The said flagship graphics card, which is used primarily for gaming and professional software, is none other than the long-awaited GeForce GTX 2080 that is set to replace the GTX 1080 released back in 2016. One thing to note is that the rumors are about NVIDIA's announcement of the GTX 2080 and not the actual release, though that may come shortly after the announcement.

Speculations began from the readers of German site 3DCenter, in which the obsoletion of a previous GPU architecture has just been discovered. This was the GP102 that powers the GTX 1080 Ti, an upgraded version of the GTX 1080. The said architecture is no longer being produced at the moment, meaning that current-gen GTX 1080 Ti and TITAN X graphics cards would stop being made as well since there could be a replacement on the way, hence the rumors.

The new architecture is said to be code-named Ampere after the previous generation being dubbed Pascal, and the GP10X architectures will be replaced with GA102 (Enthusiast), GA104 (HighEnd), GA106 (Midrange), GA107 (Mainstream) and GA108 (LowCost) architectures.

There are also some expectations that NVIDIA would be utilizing a new and much faster video random-access memory (VRAM) components for the GTX 20XX series of graphics cards starting with the 2080 at the top. This was due to NVIDIA inking a deal with Samsung that would see the company making its new 14 nm GPUs and as such, might have VRAM modules from the Korean company.

This might ultimately mean the replacement of graphics double data rate 5 (GDDR5) currently used today for the faster and better GDDR6 VRAM. Estimates of performance increase range from 1030 percent compared with the previous GTX 10XX series counterparts.

PC owners in the market for an upgrade or a new GPU will do well to wait until April before making their decisions on which GPU to purchase.Only Christians are allowed to buy houses in this Michigan town

A town in Michigan is only selling houses to Christian families. The idyllic town called Bay View is tucked away in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, according to The Guardian. For over a century, those who live there - often called "Bay Viewers" - would gather together and enjoy summer activities.

Bay View was originally a camping ground for Methodist families, but over the years, it has become a vacation spot for people who enjoy relaxing in century-old gingerbread cottages and sailing. However, the vacation spot is not open for all. Only practicing Christians are allowed to buy houses there, or even inherit them.

The homeowners association introduced a bylaw in 1947 and strengthened in 1986, which required residents to produce evidence of their faith, which could be a letter from a Christian minister testifying their active participation in church.

One of Bay View's residents, Sophie McGee, is an 80-year-old yoga lover with a PhD. She believes that the town's policies should be updated so it could be open to non-Christians. But not everyone agrees, including her husband, Glenn - a former Bay View Association board member.

"This place was founded with a purpose. People were coming to a camp meeting ground to participate in a Christian spiritual reawakening," said Glenn.

Because of this, the Bay View Association has now been slapped with a lawsuit which claims that the town is engaging in religious discrimination in violation of the U.S. and Michigan constitutions, Michigan's civil rights act, and the Fair Housing Act.

Mike Steinberg, the legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, believes the lawsuit is an "open-and-shut case."

"This is pure discrimination by a governmental entity. Bay View is clearly one and governmental entities cannot favor one religion over another, or religion over no religion," he said.Pastor forgives congregant who stabbed him at prayer meeting

With pain and shock still rippling through his church, a grieving Texas pastor said Thursday he was willing to forgive one of his congregants who went on a bloody rampage, killing one man and injuring three others including the pastor during a prayer meeting Wednesday night at his home.

"I would say, you know, we don't know what made him do this but we can extend forgiveness, we can extend love. And his mother is a part of our church. So we are going to help her in the process," Pastor Janson Abraham of Harvest Tabernacle International Church in Corpus Christi told the Caller Times.

Abraham told KRIS-TV that his congregants, who are also members of Kingdom Acts Ministries started in 2009, were praying Wednesday night as part of a 40-day prayer and fasting vigil the church had been having. Since the beginning of the fast, the members had been gathering at the home every night for song and prayer.

On Wednesday night, Corpus Christi police said they were called to Abraham's home in the 1200 block of Cambridge Drive at about 7 p.m. for reports of a stabbing. When officers arrived, they were directed inside the house where they found four people suffering from stab wounds.

Witnesses identified Marco Moreno, 28, a member of the congregation who was still inside the house, as the attacker. They reported that as many as 20 people were at the house for a worship service when Moreno stabbed four people. Frank Castillo, a 61-year-old member, died inside the church during the attack. While Abraham and three others were treated for injuries at a local hospital.

Moreno was booked and charged with one count of murder and three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He remains in custody in lieu of bail set at $1.45 million.

"It is shocking to all of us. We still can't believe what happened here yesterday," Abraham told KRIS-TV Thursday.

Abraham said he was in a back room of the house when Moreno first attacked, and he heard the women scream.

"When the women scream, normally it was a roach. That was my initial thought. But when I entered in, I saw what was going on," Abraham said. "My initial thing was to somehow stop this individual, and that's how I entered and held this guy actually and brought him to the door."

He said among the members who tried to stop Moreno's attack was his own mother. But the attack didn't end until Castillo lay dead with a stab wound to his neck.

"He was a good husband, a good father, a good brother. He will be dearly missed. You know, no one can fill his space," Abraham said.

While church members could not provide a motive for Moreno's actions, Corpus Christi Police Lt. Chris Hooper told The Associated Press that they suspect mental illness could have been a factor.

"The officers at the scene suspect there is a mental health issue with the offender," Hooper said, noting that Moreno has an "alcohol- and drug-related history" with police.

It's particularly hard for Abraham because he only just baptized Moreno last year.

"Our prayer is that he will be recovered, and that he will be completely whole and well. Then a life will be transformed through all of this," Abraham said.

As difficult as it is to forgive, he insisted that: "We all can make mistakes and we all can be misled, and I pray that whatever he has committed, we are willing to forgive him."

Abraham said even though it's difficult to continue leading his church after the tragedy, he had pledged to remain strong.

"It's hard," he said. "But as a pastor leading the people, you have to be strong."What Did Jesus Look Like?

What did Jesus look like? A new book by Joan E. Taylor, professor of Christian origins and Second Temple Judaism at King's College London, attempts to answer questions about his skin and hair color, height, and attire.

The Gospels do not describe Jesus physically, but we think we know what he looked like thanks to all the images we have, writes Taylor in an article published in Irish Times.

"The early depictions of Jesus that set the template for the way he continues to be depicted today were based on the image of an enthroned emperor and influenced by presentations of pagan gods. The long hair and beard are imported specifically from the iconography of the Graeco-Roman world. Some of the oldest surviving depictions of Jesus portray him as essentially a younger version of Jupiter, Neptune or Serapis."

These images were not aimed at showing Jesus as a man, "but to make theological points about who Jesus was as Christ (King, Judge) and divine Son," adds Taylor, author of What Did Jesus Look Like?

After consulting experts on ancient skeletons in Israel, the author learned that Judaeans of Jesus' time were closest biologically to Iraqi Jews of the contemporary world. "In terms of a colour palette then, think dark-brown to black hair, deep brown eyes, olive-brown skin. Jesus would have been a man of Middle Eastern appearance. In terms of height, an average man of this time stood 166 cm (5 ft 5 in) tall."

Jesus wore a tunic, called a chiton in Greek, Taylor writes, adding that it finished slightly below the knees.

"Tunics were made of two pieces sewn at the shoulders and sides," the author explains in another article in Sri Lanka Guardian. "One-piece tunics in first-century Judaea were normally thin undergarments or children's wear. We shouldn't think of contemporary underwear, but wearing a one-piece on its own was probably not good form. It was extremely basic."

That's what Jesus wore.

"Perhaps it is unsurprising, then, that Jesus was remembered as looking shabby by a scholar named Celsus, writing in the mid second century, in a treatise against the Christians. Celsus did his homework," she adds. "He interviewed people, and he  like us  was quite interested in what Jesus looked like."

In 2015, British scientists, assisted by Israeli archeologists, re-created what they believed was the most accurate image of the face of Jesus in human history. And they managed to do this as a result of forensic anthropology, which uses methods similar to those police have developed to solve crimes.

"Matthew's description of the events in Gethsemane offers an obvious clue to the face of Jesus. It is clear that his features were typical of Galilean Semites of his era. And so the first step for Neave and his research team was to acquire skulls from near Jerusalem, the region where Jesus lived and preached. Semite skulls of this type had previously been found by Israeli archeology experts, who shared them with Neave," said the report in Esquire.

However, evangelist Billy Graham has said one day all Christians will know what he looks like, and suggested that the Bible may avoid providing a description of Jesus because God wanted Christians to stay away from worshipping idols.East Hampton Sandwich Co. is readying its first major expansion outside of Dallas with two Houston restaurant openings in the spring.

The first will be at River Oaks District, 4444 Westheimer in April, followed by 907 Westheimer in Montrose in May. For a taste of what East Hampton Sandwich is all about check out Kirby Ice House, 3333 Eastside on Feb. 27 from 6 to 9 p.m. when the company holds a pop-up to benefit Young Houstonians for Houston Children's Charities.When Gloria Frame couldn't find a historic Texas structure to call home, she had three shipped to her Lake Austin property.

The Houston interior designer combined 150-year-old, hand-hewn log cabins, all sourced from Kentucky and Tennessee, into one main house in Spicewood, Texas.

The result? A picturesque retreat that merges rustic features with polished contemporary design.

And it all started with one rule: no faux-distressed buildings.

"I wanted something old and authentic. I didn't want to create something and make it look old, and these houses are 150 years old," Frame said.

She explains that she was so captivated by the 20 German-style buildings at Fredericksburg's Old Mill Settlement, that she tracked down their origins in an attempt to recreate the style on her land.

OLD, NEW AGAIN: Father-daughter company restores former Houston mayor Otis Massey's Riverside home

"I contacted the man who built those houses, Steve Rice, and met him in Fredericksburg," Frame said. He explained to her how he came to collect the cottages, and he helped her locate century-old houses in Kentucky and Greeneville, Tenn. These had to be deconstructed, transported to Spicewood and erected on her property.

Frame commissioned Austin architect Charles Travis to dream up a polished country house. Travis worked with renowned New York architectural/interior designer John Saladino on plotting the floor plan and the overall design of the house.

TRASH TO HOME TREASURE: Texas-based organization builds unique homes out of trash

Since she had the plan and the sought-after pile of logs, she now needed a specialized builder to put it all together.

Enter David Larremore, an interesting character from Luckenbach, Texas, she described, who told her he'd taught creative writing at Columbia University.

"He was a complete hippie," Frame recalls with a laugh. "He was an exact fit for the house, he was as old-looking as the land. He looked at this pile of logs, and he said it was his favorite project."

Larremore set up camp at her house during construction: He pitched a tent, cooked on a fire pit for his meals and bathed in the lake. He also didn't make the already exhausting operation of treating the old wood -- which she'd been warned could house poisonous Brown Recluse spiders -- and piecing together the single house any easier.

UNIQUE LIVING: A look inside sculptor Robert Bruno's legendary 'Steel House' in Texas

"He hated women, he hated me," she recalls, adding that Larremore didn't like hearing her suggestions or comments, even though she owned the site and was paying his wages. Still, he delivered on making her a house she wanted to call home.

By 1999, it was complete. It stands as a 3,062-square-foot structure on nearly five acres of land. The pastoral setting is echoed in the interior, with its natural stones and reclaimed wood details, but it maintains a polished appeal.

Outside, a swimming pool built in a ravine is surrounded by natural boulders that were carefully nudged around the watering hole. She said the cost of keeping the boulders in tact and carving out the pool, which included moving stones for pipelines, cost $100,000 alone.

"Impractical but very beautiful," Frame quips.

After decades of serenity at this parcel, Frame said she decided to sell. The lake house is currently listed just a hair under $1.5 million, at $1,499,999.

Frame said she wanted to be closer to her daughter, Hilary Crady, with whom she still owns Houston's Plus Two Interiors. She said she also wanted to break away from the responsibilities of sustaining her land and preserving her house.

"I have reached an advanced age, and it's time for me to simplify my life," Frame explained. "I have so much wooded area and I have an unbelievable swimming pool and they all take a lot of care."

While her home is being marketed by listing agents Susan Doyle and Lisa Sexton, Frame has settled into her new home in Round Top. There, she said she has the best of all worlds: a charming, country compound with 50 acres on which to roam. The best part? Since she's renting, she doesn't have to worry about maintenance at her new Texas haven.

Follow Darla Guillen on Twitter at @DarlaGuillen.While American leadership bounced from sex to domestic violence scandal, the battle over Syria is fast becoming an international conflict.

First in D.C., as The Associated Press wrote on Sunday:

President Donald Trump on Saturday seemed to frame the downfall of a pivotal aide accused of abusing his wives as a character assassination, adding to the tumult that has engulfed the White House, splintered the staff and imperiled chief of staff John Kelly's hold on his position. Trump vented in a tweet that appeared to take aim at the rising #MeToo movement about sexual abuse and echoed his own denials of sexual impropriety in the face of accusations from more than a dozen women.

But swinging our lens away from the scandal-ridden center of American leadership, we find terror and international dangers in Syria, as the AP put it on Sunday:

Israel's prime minister said Sunday his country delivered "severe blows" to Iranian and Syrian forces and vowed to take further action against its adversaries following the most serious Israeli engagement in Syria since the war there erupted almost seven years ago. Benjamin Netanyahu's tough words to his Cabinet came a day after Israel carried out a wave of airstrikes in Syria. Israel ordered the airstrikes after it intercepted an Iranian drone that had infiltrated its airspace, and an Israeli F-16 was downed upon its return from Syria. "Yesterday we dealt severe blows to the Iranian and Syrian forces," Netanyahu said. "We made it unequivocally clear to everyone that our rules of action have not changed one bit. We will continue to strike at every attempt to strike at us. This has been our policy and it will remain our policy." Israel has tried to stay on the sidelines since civil war broke out in neighboring Syria in 2011, though it has periodically carried out airstrikes against suspected weapons shipments believed to be headed for Lebanese Hezbollah, the Iranian and Syrian-allied militant group. But as the Syrian war winds down, Israeli officials have voiced increasing alarm that Iran and its Shiite allies are establishing a permanent presence in Syria that could turn its aim toward Israel. Israeli leaders said the airstrikes sent a clear message to Iran.

But, there is still rowdy fun to be had in the world and ground zero for very elaborate versions of it will be in Brazil (and elsewhere) as carnival season gets rolling!

Check out the photos from our unique roundup of world news.

Jake Ellison can be reached at jakeellisonjournalism@gmail.com. Follow Jake on Twitter at twitter.com/Jake_News. Also, swing by and *LIKE* his page on Facebook. If Google Plus is your thing, check out our science coverage here.When it came to improving very early Conroe, Dr. Juriah Fuller Collier's interests in Conroe were quite well rounded.

Dr. Collier, a medical doctor, was Conroe's first mayor from 1905-08, he served on the Conroe ISD school board, he was president of the Montgomery County Medical Society in 1911 and he organized a group to advocate for better roads in the city.

And he did all of this before Conroe's 1904 incorporation was even a decade old.

One of his crowning achievements, his brick building constructed after the Feb. 21, 1911 fire, remains a part of the downtown district today. It is now the Price and Price Building and houses the Price and Price Law Firm.

Dr. Collier was a native of Texas, having been born in Houston County, according to his obituary in The Courier on Jan. 3, 1913.

Records list his birth date as July 5, 1863.

According to The Courier article, Dr. Collier came to Conroe and engaged in the practice of medicine and was regarded as one of the most skillful physicians in this section.

In approximately 1908, he associated himself with G.M. Harris and engaged in the drug business under the firm names of Collier & Harris.

They lost their wooden establishment in the Feb. 21, 1911 fire that swept across downtown Conroe.

However, within the year, they built a handsome brick building at the corner of Pacific and Simonton Streets in downtown Conroe.

Malcolm Harris, the co-owner of the building, operated the downstairs Corner Drug Store.

The upstairs in what was then called the Collier & Harris Building served at different times as professional offices, the Montgomery County Abstract Company, and a rooming house.

And according to The Courier, while Dr. Collier was devoted to his profession, he could always be depended up to use his influence in any movement that had for its aim the betterment of the community.

To this end, in October 1911, Dr. Collier held a meeting at the courthouse on Oct. 7, 1911 for the purpose of organizing a Montgomery County Good Roads Club. The purpose was to send delegates to a Good Roads Congress in Dallas.

According to The Courier's article, news of his death cast a gloom over the entire community.

Collier died of pneumonia on Dec. 28, 2012 at the age of 51.

He is buried in Conroe's Oakwood Cemetery on 10th Street.

"He was always loyal to his friends and he will be missed by his large circle of friends," The Courier article concluded.

He was survived by his wife, Addie, and children, Gilbert, Tom and Clarece.

In the 1960s, the building had been abandoned and rat-infested when purchased by Conroe attorneys Mathis Kinney and R.A. "Mickey" Deison, who supervised the construction of a more modern stucco facade on the building.

The old building then served as their law offices and Universal Title Company for a number of years.

Gov. Rick Perry's wife toured the Conroe downtown area in the 2000s and proclaimed that the building should be renovated.

Consequently the building was proclaimed "The First Lady's Building" and grant money was awarded for exterior refurbishment  including removing the stucco.

The building was taken back to the original brick walls (except for the staircase that stayed in its original place) and purchased during the renovation process by Gina & Jimmie Price who finished the construction and moved their law offices into the building on Dec. 31, 2007.

In 2009, the old building was awarded the 2009 National Award of Merit Program Innovation for Community Revitalization by NAHRO.

The Courier thanks Montgomery County Historical Commission Chairman Larry Foerster for his contributions to this article.Patrol officers are a common, and often comforting, sight along Houston's suburban roadways. Social media feeds across the metro area are full of heartwarming posts thanking local cops for their service.

But do you know how many police officers your city employs, and how that number compares to others across the United States?

The FBI tracks police employment in cities and towns of varying sizes, documenting the number of officers and civilian employees.

RANKED: Violent crime rates in Houston-area suburbs

In its annual Crime in the United States report, the FBI defines officers as "individuals who ordinarily carry a firearm and a badge, have full arrest powers, and are paid from governmental funds set aside specifically for sworn law enforcement representatives."

Using 2016 FBI data, the most recent data available, the above information documents the number of officers employed by Houston-area cities, plus the ratio of officers per 1,000 in population.

Because the number of officers varies greatly by city size, each slide also includes the ratio per 1,000 for all cities of similar size across the United States. The population groups are fewer than 10,000, 10,000 to 24,999, 25,000 to 49,999, 50,000 to 99,999, 100,ooo to 249,999, 250,000 or more, and 1 million or more.

Some Houston-area cities, such as Webster, Tomball and Montgomery, were not included in the FBI report. And, only city agencies are included.

According to a report by Jeremy M. Wilson and Alexander Weiss of the University of Michigan, police departments determine how many officers to hire depending on a number of factors, such as budget, a department's efficiency, crime rates and the amount of time spent on calls.

See which Houston-area cities have the most and least police officers by population in the photos above.We've compiled some interesting facts about some of Houston's biggest suburbs, where you just might be reading this right now.

Did you know that actor Lee Pace from AMC's "Halt and Catch Fire" and superhero flick "Guardians of the Galaxy" went to Klein High School in Spring? It's true.

RELATED: See what some of Houston's favorite malls looked like when they opened

We hear all the time about Jim Parsons and Renee Zellweger being from the Houston area, but for some reason Pace goes unnoticed.

Come on folks, he was Ronan the Accuser and Thranduil in the "Hobbit" movies!

Looking down south to Alvin, did you know that in 1979, Tropical Storm Claudette brought 43 inches of rain to the area? That is still a U.S. record for rainfall over a 24-hour period.

And yes, Houston's hurricane in 2017 overshadows that feat by Mother Nature - but Harvey's rainfall total was over a longer period of time.

RELATED: What did Houston look like in 1997?

If you have any other weird (and verifiable) facts from Houston's surrounding suburbs, reach out to us.

If you're from Katy and you say that you just had the most hot wings in one sitting in the history of the world at your local wing place, we're going to need some documentation and an encore performance.

We'd love to add more suburbs and facts as they come along, so just reach out.

Craig Hlavaty is a reporter for Chron.com and HoustonChronicle.com. He is probably the only person from Pearland to have been thrown into the Four Seasons pool in downtown Houston by actor Lou Ferrigno.Which Houston-area suburbs have the most violent crime by population?

New data released by the FBI shows how prevalent violent crime is in most of Houston's suburban cities.

The 2016 data lists the population for each city, plus the number of murders, manslaughters, rapes, robberies and aggravated assaults for last year. This data released last week contains the most up-to-date stats for each community.

DANGEROUS CAMPUSES: Texas colleges with the most violent crime, according to the FBI

Those five crimes account for the FBI's annual violent crime statistic, which is broken down in this report by incidences per 1,000 in population.

The Houston area's suburbs, none of which surpassed the City of Houston in violent crime rates, are ranked from most violent crimes per 1,000 to least.

See where your city falls on the list, and get a look at how many violent crimes occurred in your community last year.A Galveston County constable is suspected of driving while intoxicated after he was arrested Sunday night by League City police.

On Feb. 11 at about 8:17 p.m., a witness called police to report a white SUV driving erratically in the 100 block of Highway 3 South, League City Police Officer Kelly Williamson said in a release.Sonia and John Barrow have lived in their 35-foot trailer since Hurricane Harvey pushed a foot-and-a-half of water under their door. Its been real cozy, said Sonia, 58.

So the Baytown couple visited the Houston RV Show and bought a new one.

Harvey damaged 150,000 homes in Houston alone, killed more than 80 and caused as much as $180 billion in damage in Texas. But, as it did with car and home sales, it has also provided a bump in recreational vehicle and trailer sales in the region.

RELATED: Auto sales surge in Houston after Harvey

Sales figures werent immediately available. But RV dealers said on Sunday that theyve seen a rise in sales from Harvey survivors.

Larry Troutt III, general manager of Toppers Camping Center in Waller, said Harvey boosted sales by 50 or 60 units, as much as 10 percent on the year. The company offered free delivery for Harvey victims; Troutt said he dropped off several in the driveways of flooded homes.

Troutt, president of the Houston chapter of the Recreational Vehicle Dealers of Texas, said the bigger RV dealers have seen even larger upticks.

And its not over. People are just now getting insurance checks, Troutt said.

Rene Gonzalez, a salesman at Toppers, sold a Forest River Sandpiper, a trailer that retails for as much as $75,000, to Harvey survivors on Saturday. They tried to be as upbeat as they could, he said.

RELATED: Home sales register post-Harvey rally

Joe OMasters, road manager for Ron Hoover RV & Marine, ran into about two dozen Harvey victims at the show, most staying with friends or living in hotels, but dreaming of trailers. Theyre looking for something they can call their own, said OMasters.

Show organizers said they expected to see Harvey traffic over the five-day show at the NRG Center, which ended Sunday.

Yesterday, it was shoulder-to-shoulder, said Ann Coffen, head of advertising for Communitron Management, Inc., the family-owned company that puts it on.

Some were just window-shopping.

Pete and Alaina Kurz have lived in a trailer for more than five months after Cypress Creek flooded their home northwest of Houston. Rebuilding has been slow. All the good tradesmen are clearly busy, said Pete, an IT worker at the Houston-based engineering, services and construction company KBR. Weve learned we can live with each other in tight spaces.

Theyd like a new trailer, eventually, with a kitchen pantry, walk-around bed and a bigger bathroom.

Chris Veum and Heidi LeFrois have been living out of a 25-foot RV in their driveway. Their Meyerland home got about two inches in the Memorial Day floods two years ago, and two-and-a-half feet during Harvey. This time, theyre going to rebuild higher.

The Barrows, meanwhile, cant wait for delivery of their new fifth wheel. They lost everything during Harvey, and their old trailer was feeling cramped. So a brand-new $68,900 top-of-the line VanLeigh Vilano, with wood trim, electronic leveling and plenty of storage, felt like a pretty good deal, they said.

david.hunn@chron.com

Twitter.com/davidhunnBill Montgomery/Houston Chronicle

Aldi plans to open a store in the former Hancock Fabrics at 16701 El Camino Real in the Clear Lake area in early summer, the company confirmed.

The discount grocer will give shoppers a third option within a half-mile stretch of El Camino Real. The store will be at Bay Area Boulevard and El Camino Real, between Kroger and H-E-B.The annual Veterans Business Battle, a business plan competition for military members turned entrepreneurs, will now be hosted by Rice University.

The event was founded by the Houston chapter of Entrepreneurs' Organization, which hosted the competition for the first three years, and Rice's Veterans In Business Association, VIBA, an organization for MBA students at the Jones Graduate School of Business.Lindsey Janies/stf

Federal regulators have ordered Houston's Cheniere Energy to take offline two of its liquefied natural gas storage tanks at its Sabine Pass facility after one of them leaked last month.

The U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Administration issued the order Thursday after workers late last month discovered that one of the company's five onsite storage tanks had leaked LNG into containment area surrounding it. The natural gas had leaked between the inner and outer tank walls, eventually causing the outer wall to crack in four places, according to the order.Al Seib/MBR

WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump has backed off his proposal to stop sharing oil revenues from offshore drilling with states along the Gulf of Mexico.

In the budget proposal released Monday, the White House preserved the revenue sharing agreement, which was expected to deliver $275 million to Texas, Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi this year.Send calendar items to vbrashier@hcnonline.com.

FEB. 20

DeMENTIA SUPPORT

10 a.m. to noon

First United Methodist Church

100 N. William Barnett Ave., Cleveland

Angels Care Home Health is offering free classes for caregivers of dementia patients. The classes are held every Tuesday through March 2. Upcoming topics are Understanding and Resolving Grief on Feb. 20, The Natural State of Doing on Feb. 27, Keeping the Peace on March 6, The Behaviors on March 13 and Dementia and Medications on March 20.

FEB. 21

FOOD HANDLER CLASS

9 to 11 a.m.

Extension Office

501 Palmer Ave., Liberty

The next two-hour food handler certification class, taught by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office's Alexis Cordova, is $20 and can be paid on the day of the class. Please call the office at 936-334-3230 to sign up so enough materials can be provided.

FEB. 22

CHILI LUNCH

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

First United Methodist Church

100 N. William Barnett Ave., Cleveland

Caring Hearts Ministry members will be selling chili lunches for $8 in the church fellowship hall. Take-out is available without a drink. For information, call 281-592-0545.

FEB. 24

BENEFIT FOR JACKSON

Begins at noon

Bokeeter's Cocktail Bar

18110 US 59, New Caney

On Dec. 19, 5-year-old Jackson Cash Turner was in an auto accident and suffered severe spinal injuries. He has a long road to recovery ahead of him. He is the son of Stephanie Clakley of New Caney and attends Valley Ranch Elementary. With mounting medical costs and bills, the family needs help from the community. The benefit includes barbecue lunches for sale, auction, raffles, music, bake sale, poker run and more. Orders for barbecue lunches to be delivered on Friday, Feb. 23, to local companies is also possible for those who place an order by Feb. 16. For more information on the meals, call Michelle at 281-901-3348. The poker run will start at 10 a.m. The cost is $20 for riders and $10 for passengers. Lunch for poker run participants is included. For more information on the poker run, call Travis at 832-318-1563 or Monty at 281-761-1555. Other questions are directed to Monica Enloe at 281-413-5374 or Amy Drake at 281-806-6387.

FEB. 27

CHILD CARE PROVIDER TRAINING

Extension Office

501 Palmer Ave., Liberty

Child care providers looking for training opportunities to fulfill licensing requirements might be interested in upcoming classes in Liberty provided by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office. Every fourth Tuesday, there will be evening training classes. On Feb. 27, a two-hour class will be offered for $12 on "The Behavior Challenge" and "Food Allergies and How to Manage." The class will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. and participants are asked to sign up at least one week prior to class day. Call 936-334-3230 for more information.

MARCH 3

HEALTH AND RESOURCE FAIR

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Shepherd Community Center

10251 FM 150, Shepherd

The Health Center of Southeast Texas, in conjunction with the City of Shepherd is hosting a Health and Resource Fair that is free and open to the community. Vendors may begin setting up at 8:30 a.m. Vendors may bring a door prize that will be given out at random times during the event. For questions, Kim Hughes at 281-592-2224, ext. 206, or the City of Shepherd at 936-628-3305.Send calendar items to vbrashier@hcnonline.com.

FEB. 21

FOOD HANDLER CLASS

9 to 11 a.m.

Extension Office

501 Palmer Ave., Liberty

The next two-hour food handler certification class, taught by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office's Alexis Cordova, is $20 and can be paid on the day of the class. Please call the office at 936-334-3230 to sign up so enough materials can be provided.

FEB. 27

CHILD CARE PROVIDER TRAINING

Extension Office

501 Palmer Ave., Liberty

Child care providers looking for training opportunities to fulfill licensing requirements might be interested in upcoming classes in Liberty provided by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office. Every fourth Tuesday, there will be evening training classes. On Feb. 27, a two-hour class will be offered for $12 on "The Behavior Challenge" and "Food Allergies and How to Manage." The class will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. and participants are asked to sign up at least one week prior to class day. Call 936-334-3230 for more information.

FEB. 27

L-D Chamber Banquet

6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

801 S. Cleveland St., Dayton

KTRK news anchor Art Rascon will headline the annual gala hosted by the Liberty-Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce. Rascon, an Emmy Award-winning journalist for ABC-13, is a Texas native and has covered major events including the Oklahoma City bombing, the O.J. Simpson case, the Branch Davidian stand-off, Mexico's guerilla wars, Haiti's civil unrest, among many others. Tickets for the banquet are $35. A round table that seats 10 can be purchased for $350. Groups of 10 can be seated together by request. Sponsorships are still available. Call the chamber at 936-336-5736 or send an email at chamber@imsday.com.A little rain wasn't enough to keep locals inside over the weekend.

While some Houstonians braved the weather and stripped down to their skivvies for the annual Cupid's Undie Run, several others opted for more boozy fun with a Mardi Gras Pub Crawl.Luis Miguel is coming to Houston.

The Mexican superstar, who hasn't toured in several years, brings his Mexico Por Siempre! Tour to town May 27 at Toyota Center.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday via the venue site.

Miguel has released around two dozen albums in his 36-year career. He was the first Latin artist to earn two platinum-certified Spanish-language albums in the United States. His concert tours are immediate sell-outs around the world.

Telemundo has plans this year to air an officially authorized scripted TV drama based on Miguel's life.As the deadline approaches to file to run for election on the Katy City Council, two people are seeking the open seat while both incumbents are seeking another two-year term.

The deadline to file to run is 5 p.m. Feb. 16 for the May 5 city election. As of Feb. 6, Chris Harris and Larry Gore have filed to run for Councilman at Large. That position now is held by Steve Pierson who is term limited after serving three consecutive two-year terms and cannot run for re-election.

Both Gore and Harris have been attending City Council meetings on a regular basis. Gore said he offers experience, having served on City Council for six years before he was term limited. Harris said he offers someone new and different.

Both agree that flood mitigation is an issue facing the city.

Gore, a longtime city resident, homeowner and businessman, said, "I want to keep the city moving in a forward direction and work with other members of council and other governments to solve problems like flooding. It's important to have experienced people on council to address issues."

Gore succeeded Pierson, who was term-limited on City Council in 2008. Gore is a member of the city's Zoning & Planning Commission and has served more than 20 years on the Fort Bend Levee Improvement District No. 12 board.

Said Gore, "I feel like I have very good perspective not just a homeowner's but also a bigger picture as a business and property owner so we can all work together to make it a better and more livable city for everyone."

Wanting to be a voice for the people, Gore said "I'm giving them a choice between experience and a veteran known entity who knows how to stand up and fight for them."

Harris said he's been serving the community in other capacities and was asked about serving on City Council. "I just love Katy and want to serve," said Harris, who moved here in 2006 and married a Katy native. Being elected to council would be the next step in the evolution of serving, he said.

He is a member of the Katy Development Authority and the Katy-Fort Bend Tax Reinvestment Zone Board as well as a volunteer with the Katy Independent School District. He said his interest in local history was instrumental in Katy Elementary obtaining a historical marker in 2017.

"I want to continue the great things the city is doing now," said Harris, adding that "there's always room for improvement, always room for fresh ideas and a fresh look at things.

"I do want to look at better city services including trash contract, more police and public safety - someone new and different to look at the current city budget."

Incumbents running for re-election are Ray Boothe in Ward A and Durran Dowdle in Ward B.

People can visit City Hall at 901 Ave. C in Katy to file to run for office with the City Secretary's office between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Feb. 15-16. Visit http://cityofkaty.com/government/election-eleccionb%E1%BA%A7u-c%E1%BB%AD/ for details.Mo's place ready for anniversary

Mo's Place Katy will celebrate their 30th anniversary on Saturday, March 31st with a lineup of favorites sure to keep you dancing. Crowd favorite Chris Salinas will start off the show followed by the Texas Jamm Band (members of George Strait's Ace In The Hole Band) and Mo is keeping the headliner top secret for now. Knowing Mo, it's going to be a great one.

Mo Jeloudarzadeh came to America with only a suitcase in his hand and after working his way through college as a dishwasher, he was promoted to bartender. Mo has a passion for serving others, so he flourished in his new position and then fell in love with country music. In March of 1988, he opened Mo's Place in a small strip center in the Katy area and didn't even have enough barstools for his first night. Mo's outgoing personality and the fact that he treats you like family have been key ingredients to his success.

Last year, Mo was presented with the Pioneer Award from the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame for his many years of helping with the success of Texas Country Music artists.

Levey Group completes facility

Levey Group, a family-owned industrial real estate development company, announced the completion of its first side-load distribution facility inside Northwest Place Industrial Park Phase II.

The building is 64,850 square feet and can serve a single tenant user or it may be divided into leasehold space as small as 22,000 square feet. The facility features attractive storefront entrances, 32' clear heights, dock-high loading and two ramps.

The configuration of the master-planned 7.9-acre business park provides generous frontage on both West Little York and North Houston Rosslyn, allowing the park to feature a connecting road facilitating truck ingress, egress and maneuverability within the park. The layout of Northwest Place Industrial Park Phase II provides tenants the opportunity to have outside storage or truck/trailer parking. The company's plans for Phase II include two additional tilt wall facilities.

For leasing information, contact Joseph Smith with CRBE at 832-723-1566.Textiles are a necessity in life. Any cloth you wear or use as part of daily life is a result of the textile industry. But textiles are also an art form. They have beauty and tell the stories of many cultures.

"Cloth as Community: Hmong Textiles in America," a traveling exhibition opens Monday, April 9, at Altharetta Yeargin Art Museum, 901 Yorkchester. It tells the story of a textile artform handed down for generations.

"Hmong flower cloth (or paj ntaub) is one of the world's great textile traditions and an excellent example of cloth as community. Despite its deep roots in Hmong culture, this complex art was not widely known outside Asia until after the Vietnam War, when Hmong refugees arrived in the United States," said Leann Newton, AYAM co-curator.

The works illustrate the relevance of textiles as infrastructure in the Hmong culture, an art form that shifted as it adapted to fit new realities. The exhibition features 28 textiles created by members of the Hmong community - flower cloths and embroidered story clothes, along with vivid photographs that bring this beautiful art form alive today.

Co-curator Kathy Goss said, "The story of Hmong textile production reflects the shift in creating textiles from traditional abstract patterns created for family and ceremonial use to its evolution as a source of commerce and a means to tell of a new life abroad."

The works also reveal the radical upheaval Hmong refugees experienced, as many crossed the Mekong River to Thailand. Hmong women traditionally produced complex clothing that established clan identity through abstract geometric designs, created by embroidery, applique, reverse applique and indigo batik. These patterns continue to influence the aesthetic choices of contemporary makers, even as those choices were mediated by refugee experience and economic concerns. Historically, textiles in village life were not sold, but they held important spiritual protections. In refugee camps and beyond, the sale of textiles generated important income for families, and this creation of textiles for commerce brought on changes to this centuries-old art form. Story cloths emerged with pictorial art, sometimes sharing escape narratives of those in refugee camps.

As the memory of the Vietnam War receded and American buyers required more upbeat subjects, many of the story cloth subjects morphed into representations of a new life in America or nostalgia for the pastoral life left behind (animals in a jungle, scenes of village life, or illustrated Hmong folk tales with English text). The works in this exhibition demonstrate a period in time when old paj ntaub influenced new designs, often produced at a larger scale or with more space devoted to the triangular borders, and embroidered story cloths changed to fit a new market that was different from tourists or relief workers in the camps. The works show how the profound relevance of textiles as infrastructure in the Hmong social fabric has never been part of a fixed cultural tableau, even as the narrative is adapted to fit new realities.

"Cloth as Community: Hmong Textiles in America" will be on exhibition at AYAM from April 9-19. The museum is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday; and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. A $5 donation is requested. For more information about the exhibit, contact Leann Newton at 713-251-1987 or leann.ayam@yahoo.com.Jan. 18

At 11:01 a.m., Officer D.Rocha conducted a traffic stop on a gray-colored 4 door vehicle in the 6800 block of South Rice Ave. This vehicle had defective equipment (brake light). Contact was made with the driver who was subsequently found to be operating a motor vehicle while her Texas Driver's License currently invalid / suspended. The driver was arrested and taken to the Bellaire Jail where she was booked for the charge of driving while license suspended / enhanced with no insurance (Class B misdemeanor).

At 6:07 p.m., Officer Salinas observed a rental vehicle with the engine running, and unattended in the parking lot of Randall's at 5130 Bellaire Blvd. Officer Salinas made contact with a representative of the rental company that owned the vehicle. After conducting an investigation it was determined the vehicle was rented in October 2017, and was never returned. The vehicle was towed to a PV Holding Corp affiliated company location in Houston. A Dell Inspirion 24 3000 Series "All in One" desktop was found in the rear cargo area of the vehicle and held by Bellaire Police Department until a property hearing can be held.

Jan. 19

At 12:53 a.m., Officer Clisham initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for displaying and expired registration sticker in the area of 4600 Bellaire Blvd. After making contact with the driver and further investigation, the driver of said vehicle was placed into custody and charged with driving while license suspended enhance, a class b misdemeanor.

At 1:45 p.m., Officer Liccketto conducted a traffic stop on a blue Ford focus for expired registration in the 4800 block of Bissonnet Street. During the investigation, the driver was found to have a suspended driver's license with no proof of financial responsibility. The driver was arrested for driving while license invalid enhanced and was transported to the Bellaire Police Department for booking.

At 3:39 p.m., Officer Younger made contact with the victim who advised an unknown suspect forced entry into his vehicle in the 5000 block of Cedar Street and stole a work bag.

At 8:51 p.m., Officer Younger was dispatched to the 4900 block of Elm Street in regards to a death investigation. The subject was found to have passed away due to complications of cancer and was transported by the funeral home.

Jan. 20

At 1:06 p.m., Officer Schwausch was dispatched to 5910 West Loop South in reference to a burglary of a motor vehicle. Upon arrival, Officer Schwausch made contact with the victim who stated her purse was taken out of her vehicle while she was pumping gas. The purse contained a red wallet with 2 VISA cards and approximately $40. The suspect was seen leaving the scene south bound on the IH 610 West Service road in a black Toyota 4runner, 2014 or newer with a temporary license plate. The suspect is described as a tall black male

Jan. 21

At 12:01 a.m., Officer Clisham initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the area of 4800 Bissonnet St. for having two broken tail lights (both lights had broken lenses causing each light to emit white light to the rear of the vehicle). After making contact with the driver of said vehicle and further investigation, said driver was placed into custody and charged with driving while intoxicated.

Jan. 22

At 2:09 a.m., Officer Clisham observed a vehicle in the area of 5400 Bellaire Blvd., exit the public roadway and continue to drive through a private parking lot and then back onto the public roadway in order to avoid a traffic control devise (red light) said vehicle was also displaying an unreadable temporary license plate. Officer Clisham initiated a traffic stop on said vehicle. After making contact with the driver and further investigation, said driver was placed into custody and charged with driving while intoxicated.

Jan. 24

At 1:07 a.m., Officer Barrientos responded to a burglary of a motor vehicle which just occurred in the 4400 block of Verone. The vehicle in which the suspect was driving was a silver pickup truck. Ofc. Barrientos observed a vehicle in the 4500 block of Bellaire Blvd matching the description and initiated a traffic stop. Upon further investigation, the driver was found with items belonging to the victim inside the pickup truck. Ofc. Barrientos placed the driver in custody and he was charged with multiple counts of burglary of a motor vehicle.

At 1:07 a.m., Officer Salinas was dispatched to the 4400 block of Verone Street in reference to a burglary of a motor vehicle that had just occurred. The suspect was located and placed in custody by Bellaire Police Officers a few minutes later. At 3:09 a.m., Officer Salinas located a black Ford Expedition parked in front of a residence in the 4300 block of Mildred Street that had been burglarized. The stolen items from the Ford Expedition were recovered inside the suspect's vehicle. The suspect was charged with an additional charge of burglary of a motor vehicle for this case.

At 8:32 a.m., Officer Vorhees was dispatched to the 5600 block of Saint Paul Street to meet with the reportee in reference to a burglary of a motor vehicle. The reportee stated an unknown suspect'(s) broke the passenger side window of her vehicle and stole her purse from the front passenger side floor board.

At 8:10 a.m., Officer Andrade was dispatched to Bellaire Police Department Lobby in reference to burglary of a motor vehicle in the 4300 block of Mildred Street. Officer Andrade met with the victim who stated between 6:30 p.m. Jan. 23 and 7:30 a.m. Jan. 24, an unknown suspect entered her unlocked vehicle and stole several items. After further investigation, the suspect was identified and charged with Class B misdemeanor burglary of a motor vehicle. All of the victim's stolen items were recovered.

At 1:24 p.m., Officer Andrade was dispatched to the 4600 block of Pine Street in reference to a burglary of a building. At 1:32 p.m., Officer Andrade meet with the reportee who stated sometime between 10:30 p.m. Jan. 23 ant 6 a.m. Jan. 24, an unknown suspect broke the lock to the construction site and stole roofing material from the front yard. After further investigation, this was determined to be a theft.

At 4:42 p.m., Officer Younger initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for failing to stop at a designated point at 6800 S. Rice Ave. The traffic stop investigation found the driver in possession of marijuana and various types of prescription medications. The driver was placed into custody and transported to the Bellaire Jail to be processed.

At 11:16 p.m., Officer Schwausch was patrolling the intersection of Chimney Rock Drive and Bissonnet Street. Officer Schwausch was traveling northbound on Chimney Rock Drive behind a black Nissan Maxima and observed the Maxima run the left turn light and turn west bound onto Bissonnet Street. Officer Schwausch's investigation in the traffic stop found one of the passengers to possess 9 grams of marijuana, a marijuana grinder, and a glass bong. The suspect was deferred to the Marijuana Diversion Program offered by the Harris County District Attorney's Office and the drugs/paraphernalia were seized.

Jan. 25

At 2:50 a.m., Sgt. D. Hollie was patrolling the 5200 block of Bissonnet Street (E/B), when he observed Dodge traveling eastbound. Sgt. Hollie observed this vehicle fail to obey sign: no left turn at the intersection Bissonnet St. and Bellaire Blvd. Sgt. Hollie made a traffic stop on the vehicle for this reason. After further investigation, the driver was arrested for Driving While License Invalid (DWLI) and the driver could not provide proof of financial responsibility at the time of the offense.

At 12:40 p.m., Officer Vorhees was dispatched to a shoplifting in progress at 5002 Bellaire Blvd, Walgreen's Drug Store. Officer Vorhees made contact with the store manager who stated a H/M filled a hand basket with condoms and walked out of the store fleeing in a brown older model Jeep.

Jan. 26

At 1:27 p.m., Officer Andrade was dispatched to 5104 Bellaire Blvd. in reference to a theft. Officer Andrade met with the victim who stated an unknown suspect broke the front right passenger side window and stole cash from his interior door pocket of his parked vehicle.

Jan. 27

At 10:54 a.m., Officer M. Santillanes was dispatched to the 4600 block of Pine in reference to a theft call. Upon arrival, Officer M. Santillanes met with the reportee who advised an unknown suspect stole roof decking materials from the property after cutting a metal lock off the gate which was securing the property. After speaking with the reportee and contractors on scene it was determined the incident occurred sometime between 6:10 p.m. Jan. 26 and 7:20 a.m. Jan. 27.

Jan. 28

At 7:17 p.m., Officer Liccketto conducted a traffic stop in the 5300 block of Bissonnet Street on a brown Hyundai Santa Fe for expired motor vehicle registration. During the investigation, the driver was found to be in possession of marijuana. The driver was arrested for possession of marijuana and transported to the Bellaire Police department for booking. The passenger was also arrested for city of Bellaire municipal warrants.

At 7:53 p.m., Officer Delgado observed a blue 1995 Cadillac in the 5400 block of the IH 610 N/B with an obscured license plate. Officer Delgado conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and made contact with the driver. After further investigation, the driver was placed into custody for suspicion of driving while intoxicated and transported to Bellaire Police Department's Jail for processing.Opera in the Heights (Oh!) is ready to present a new look at Verdi's tale of regicide, "Un Ballo in Maschera (A Masked Ball)," from Feb. 16 to 24 at Lambert Hall.

Based on a true story of the assassination of King Gustav III of Sweden at a masked ball during the 18th century, Verdi's Un Ballo in Maschera is a tale of forbidden love, a dark prophecy, and ultimate betrayal.

"Ballo represents Verdi, the quintessential master of Italian opera, at the peak of his compositional powers," says Eiki Isomura, Artistic Director. "Every moment is charged with visceral emotion and psychological depth. It's a substantial piece that demands an exceptional cast, and I am quite in awe of the powerful, old-school vocalism these artists are bringing to their performances."

Adapted by Verdi to be set in the United States, the opera tells the story of Riccardo, a compassionate and beloved senator, who has two problems: conspirators plotting his assassination, and he is in love with his best friend's wife.

In a new production envisioned by stage director John De Los Santos with scenic designer Jonathan Dahm Robertson, Opera in the Heights' production will explore male and female relationships  their bonds by love, wealth and stature, and the eternal back-and-forth in a confused and decadent world  delivered in a sensual style. The disparity between the elite groups who rule and the plight of the lower classes will also be up for analysis on the stage.

"Un Ballo in Maschera is one of Verdi's most acclaimed masterpieces. However, rarely performed in this country," says Paige Myrick, Executive Director. "Once by Houston Grand Opera in 2007 and Opera in the Heights in 2010 over the past decade. We're excited to bring a new sleek, severe, and edgy version to Houston audiences."

There will be four performances of Un Ballo in Maschera presented at Lambert Hall (1703 Heights Boulevard, Houston, 77008):

Friday, Feb. 16, at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 18, at 2 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 22, at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 24, at 7:30 p.m.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles, the runtime is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including two 15-minute intermissions.

Ticket holders are invited to a post-performance "Talk-Back" with the cast following the matinee on Sunday, Feb. 18.

YOLO post-performance cocktail mixer with the cast will follow the performance on Thursday, Feb. 22.

Visit www.operaintheheights.org/ballo-cast for a list of Un Ballo in Maschera cast.

Purchase tickets online at www.operaintheheights.org or by phone at 713-861-5303. Prices begin at $40 with discounts for children, students, and seniors. For 10 or more tickets, email daniel@operaintheheights.org or call 713-861-5303.Two St. Pius X High School students showed off their writing skills in the 14th Annual University of St. Thomas/Archdiocese of Houston-Galveston Essay Contest.

Bellaire resident and St. Pius freshman Sasha Durocher took top honors in her grade level, and Heights resident and St. Pius senior Audrey Murdock took third place in her grade level.

More than 8,000 submissions from students in third to 12th grades wrote about topics ranging from the promises of Rosary to the definition of a leader. The contest was sponsored by the UST Office of Catholic Outreach. All of the high school's honors and advanced placement students submitted one-page entries, and the English faculty selected three essays from each grade and then submitted them to the contest.

In her essay titled "Why I Would Enroll my Child in a Catholic School," Durocher wrote about the value of a Catholic education.

"I chose to write about Catholic schools because I believe that they have made a big impact on my life and that they provide the best learning experience for everyone," she said.

Murdock's essay also centered around Catholic education and what she said sets Catholic school students apart from others.

"The one thing that I found for me to be different is that we have theology classes and mass," Murdock said. "I decided that it was a set of values that we teach instead of [just] the curriculum because I feel like you can take all sorts of academic subjects, but if you don't have the morals to back it up, you won't get very far."

Durocher said she likes writing because it allows her to express her ideas and also helps her manage stress.

"The idea of being able to transfer my thoughts into words on paper for everyone to see is something that I appreciate," she said. "I use writing as a way to express my thoughts and relieve stress. After being taught how to properly write, I have found myself enjoying it way more."

Murdock said English is probably one of her favorite subjects in school and that she particularly appreciates studying and analyzing literature. She said she is currently reading F. Scott Fitzgerald. For now, Murdock reads mostly for school and not as much for pleasure due to lack of time.

In her last semester at St. Pius, Murdock said she has applied to several colleges in the northeast and around Washington, D.C. and that she plans to have a career in international affairs or perhaps nonprofit management. She is currently waiting to hear back where she has been accepted.

Still a freshman, Durocher said she plans to one day attend the University of Alberta because that is where her father went. She hopes to pursue a career in engineering or architecture, she said.

Murdock said her time at St. Pius was what pushed to her to choose her topic.

"I was inspired by the past four years-how I've seen the school community at work, how I think St. Pius has sort of shaped me and now moving forward how I'm going to take all the skills that I've learned and go forward with that," she said.

Durocher said they she was excited to have her writing efforts recognized.

"To know that my essay was recognized out of the 8,000 submissions makes me feel extremely honored and thankful for the education I have received," she said.The Katy Independent School District is expected to have nearly 100,000 students in classrooms by 2027 and effectively managing that explosive growth is a top priority for three people running for spots on the Katy ISD Board of Trustees.

"Our school district is so respected that people want to move here. That's great, but it does cause a constant disruption," said Susan Gesoff, who's running for the Position 7 seat on the school board currently occupied by Katy ISD trustee Charles Griffin.

The feeling is echoed by Scott Martin, an attorney looking to replace outgoing Position 6 trustee Brian Michalsky.

"It's no secret that we're growing - a lot - and accommodating that is going to be a challenge," Martin said. "We need to be conscious of the cost, do things prudently and be open with the voters about what things cost."

"We are a fast-growing district but how are we preparing for that growth," said Don Massey, also running for the Position 7 seat. "Being prepared for that growth is our biggest challenge."

Massey, a former general manager of Katy Mills Mall who now works for a local real estate firm, has three children who attend Katy Elementary School. Martin has two children in pre-school who will soon be attending Pattison Elementary. Both have lived in Katy for about four years.

Gesoff moved to Katy from Coppell in the Dallas area about 13 years ago. Her three children graduated from Seven Lakes High School. She is an industrial engineer with BP but previously spent five years teaching fifth grade science and social studies in the Katy ISD.

"I've always been passionate about education. It seems a logical fit," Gesoff said of her ambitions to join the school board.

As a former teacher at Alexander Elementary, Gesoff said she would be a tireless advocate for the educators in Katy ISD.

"One of the goals is to try to reduce the administrative burden on teachers," she said. "It's those 'five minutes here, two minutes there' that really take away from instructional time."

Massey left the company that manages Katy Mills because he was due for a transfer to another city.

"I wanted to raise my family here in Katy. I've moved four times already for my career," he said. "I loved running Katy Mills but I want to put down my roots here."

Massey said he doesn't have any particular agenda to pursue, other than working for simple good management and community engagement within the district. He has served on a variety of school-related boards, including the 2014 bond committee and the Katy ISD's strategic design committee.

"I bring the experience of running a multi-million business," he said. "I have a financial background that is well needed on the board."

Martin is a lawyer with the federal public defender's office. He works in the appeals section for the agency that defends people who can't afford an attorney.

"A lot of our clients are people who came from some pretty sad backgrounds - people who didn't get a good education," he said. "This is something that's pretty meaningful to me."

As the father of twins about to enter the Katy school system, Martin said he has been thinking a lot about their future and the future of the district. One of the areas he's interested in pursuing is introducing single-member districts to the Katy ISD school board. With the growth in the district, having solely "at large" trustees isn't practical.

"There are no trustees who live in our area right now," Martin said. "Everyone ought to have someone they know (on the board.) That person would have more familiarity with their schools in their particular neighborhood."

Martin also wants reform in how bond elections are done. He believes massive construction projects should appear as a stand alone proposition rather than adding non-controversial items to the list.

"It should stand or fall on its own merits. For it to be lumped into everything else, to me seems kind of unfair," he said.

As for the still-controversial in some quarters $70 million Legacy Stadium, Don Massey said he doesn't like looking backwards.

"There was never an argument that a stadium wasn't needed," he said. "Did it have to be that expensive? Probably not."

As a trustee, Massey said he would continue to help support the legacy of the Katy Independent School District.

"I'm going to be a voice for the community and really understand what their issues are," he said.A 71-year-old man pushing a shopping cart across the street was killed Saturday in a crash in the Spring Branch area, according to Houston police.

Just after 6 p.m., the man was crossing the road in the 7500 block of Long Point, just west of Antoine, where there was no crosswalk.As violence behind bars continues to rise, Texas prisons over the past 10 years have seen a 71 percent increase in the use of chemical agents on inmates, often those attempting suicide or self-harm.

The shift comes amid an increase in the number of violent offenders and a growing mentally ill population - factors that prison officials and officers cite in explaining the growing reliance on tools like pepper spray and tear gas.

"It might be controversial, but when you have somebody who's cutting himself with a razor blade, that's the best approach," said Lance Lowry, a Huntsville officer and former union president. "Their focus goes from, 'Hey, I wanna kill myself' to, 'Hey, this stuff burns.'"

But some advocates forcefully disagreed about the value of using chemical agents - a category of less-than-lethal weapons including everything from pepper foggers to "rubber ball grenades" - on prisoners in a mental health crisis.

"That's horrifying," said Doug Smith, a policy analyst with the Texas Criminal Justice Coalition."I'm really too horrified to comment."

In 2007, officers used chemical agents just over 3,000 times, according to data in monthly Emergency Action Center reports obtained by the Chronicle. Last year, staff used chemical agents more than 5,200 times.

Typically, thwarting suicide and self-harm has been one of the key reasons listed for deploying the non-lethal weapons. Other commonly cited reasons include disturbances or assaults and refusing strip-search and handcuff procedures.

In May 2008, about 20 percent of chemical agent uses were on inmates attempting suicide or self-harm. By December 2011, that number rose to 24 percent, and in the last four months of 2017 it was consistently over 29 percent.

Over the same time frame, inmate suicide attempts more than doubled, though the Texas Department of Criminal Justice attributed that shift to a broadened definition of what counts as a suicide attempt.

Meanwhile, serious inmate assaults - another possible reason for using chemical agents - increased by 35 percent between 2007 and 2017.

"Staff is dealing with a more hardened, violent inmate population," TDCJ spokesman Jason Clark said Monday. In 2007, there were 75,124 prisoners serving time for violent offenses. By last year, that number rose to more than 80,000.

Over the same timeframe, Clark said, the number of mentally ill inmates increased by 17 percent.

In a story published last week in the Chronicle, an official with the University of Texas Medical Branch, which oversees mental health and medical care at most Texas prisons, estimated that the number of mentally ill inmates may have doubled.

Some officers saw the uptick in chemical agent use as a positive sign that suicide prevention is "truly a top priority."

"Honestly I would rather go home knowing a guy was uncomfortable but alive than dead," said one corrections officer, who asked to remain anonymous as he was not authorized to speak publicly.

Sometimes, he said, there aren't enough officers to safely enter a cell and stop a suicide attempt - and deploying a chemical agent from outside the cell might be the next best option, especially if the prisoner has a sharp object.

Also, he added, there's always the possible threat of prisoners trying to "lure an officer into the cell to assault them."

"I would rather accidentally use chemical agents and be wrong than not and he commit suicide," the officer said. "I can do probation for the mistake. At least he lives."

Michele Deitch, an attorney and criminal justice consultant who teaches at UT-Austin's LBJ School of Public Affairs, decried the practice.

"I do not think there is any legitimate justification for use of such weapons," she said. "Staff should be trained in appropriate practices for de-escalating the situation, calling in mental health staff, and using a non-violent approach towards these suicidal individuals."

Greg Hansch, public policy director with National Alliance on Mental Illness Texas, called it "concerning" and touted the use of de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques.

"That said, there are scenarios that come up in which something else is needed to address the situation and there should be less restrictive means pursued to restrain the person," he said. "Chemical restraint should be more of a last resort than a standard practice."

Dr. Joseph Penn, the director of mental health services at UTMB, said he had did not have an opinion on the use of chemical agents on inmates attempting self-harm or suicide.Houston police are investigating a shooting in the East Little York area that wounded a man.

The man, Oscar Comeaux, 40, was shot in the arm and abdomen near his home, Houston Police said. He was last reported in stable condition.

Police have few details about the shooting, which occurred about 11:45 p.m. Friday near the 9900 block of Cheeves Road.

There is no motive or description of a suspect, investigators said.

Anyone with information should contact the HPD Major Assaults Unit at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-8477.Houston police arrested a 29-year-old man early Monday following a car chase that ended with the man hiding in a backyard.

A Houston Police Department officer was patrolling the Hidden Valley subdivision when he saw a 2006 black Mercedes-Benz with its lights on, blocking a driveway near 800 W. Gulf Bank Road, HPD spokesman John Cannon said.

The officer ran the cars plates and saw that the cars registration expired more than two years ago, Cannon said. The officer tried to conduct a traffic stop, but the man drove away, running several stop signs in the process, the spokesman said.

The driver hit a dead end on Sunnywood Drive and Rainy River Drive, got out of his car with a passenger and ran through a high brush, Cannon said.

A K-9 unit searched and found the man, who was hiding in the backyard of a neighborhood residence, Cannon said.

Police are pursuing a felony charge of evading police in a motor vehicle, Cannon said.Mexican media is reporting at least six people were executed Thursday at a restaurant in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, Jalisco, as killings continue following the arrest of a powerful captain within the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

A group of at least 10 men stormed the restaurant, surrounded the seven diners and opened fire, immediately killing six of them, according to reports.The windowsill of Don Rollins' office in the Vidor High School band hall is lined with UIL trophies, two rows deep, celebrating the band's accomplishments.

His Grammy Award for Best Country Song of 2003 is wrapped in foam in a cardboard box under his desk.

The Vidor native, who won the award for co-writing "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere" for Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, returned in 2014 to his hometown and high school, where he runs the program that first got him hooked on music.

Although the Grammy is put away, the office shows signs of time spent in Nashville. Certificates testifying to the success of "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere" and a signed photo of Reba McEntire and Carole King adorn the wall, above the racks of guitars and piles of papers on his desk.

On a recent afternoon, Vidor's jazz band practiced in the band hall behind him.

The job takes someone who knows Vidor and its traditions, says Rollins, 56. "It's unique, and it's my hometown."

The Vidor job "requires a lot of weird knowledge," like coordinating fireworks and marching in the dark for homecoming, and directing one of the few military-style bands in the region.

Rollins returned to Southeast Texas from Nashville, where he lived "about two minutes down the lake from Johnny Cash's old place," in 2013 to teach saxophone at Lamar University. A year later he decided to stick around after longtime Vidor band director Ronnie Touchstone retired.

Although he sometimes misses Tennessee's four seasons, "I like what I'm doing and I like where I'm living," he said. "I tend to follow where the music thing leads me."

"The music thing" has taken him to Lamar University, where he studied under Jimmy Simmons, to Nashville, where he worked for music production company Warner/Chappell, and now back to Southeast Texas.

"That's a mistake I see a lot of young talented people make over and over again - they don't go with the flow," Rollins said, and stick to their plans rather than following opportunities.

While still in high school, Rollins played with Simmons' band on jazz nights at Carlo's on Calder. A few years later, he was a student in Simmons' music department, where he "built himself a nest" more quickly than other students.

While Rollins is known for country songs, he's an "extremely talented" jazz and classical musician, Simmons said.

"As a teacher, you just dream of those things happening to your students," he said of Rollins' success in the industry, which he said makes him a model teacher now.

At the college level, "I've always felt you don't want professional teachers, you want professionals to teach," Simmons said, because they have experiences to share with students.

While his days now are filled with some of the "goofy things" a high school band director has to do, Rollins still writes songs several days a week, he said.

"This year, I made some changes," he said, stepping back from playing to make song-writing more of a priority again. He keeps notes in his phone for song ideas, something that's always come naturally, he said.

"I'm as much of an English geek as I am a music one," he said, passing time as a college student in particularly boring college classes writing Shakespearean sonnets.

Rollins said he writes songs in "verses and big clumps, fast."

When he and Jim Brown sat down to write what became their Grammy-winning hit, "we started at 10 o'clock and we were done by lunch," Rollins said.

He was in a Target store when he got a call that Alan Jackson wanted to record the song. Rollins said he and Brown intended for the song to have a "Margaritaville" vibe. He thought Jackson was "way too country for that song."

The decision made more sense when he learned it would be a duet with Buffett. The song went from a demo cut in March 2003 to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart by mid-summer.

"You never know when something's going to resonate," Rollins said. At the time, he was writing five days a week. He can't remember what else he was working on.

"You just flush your brain and go into the next appointment," he said.

Rollins has been writing as long as he's been playing, he said, starting with guitar lessons when he was 7. He picked up the saxophone in high school and "in ninth or 10th grade, something snapped," he said.

"I never was a practice room rat, most of my improving's been done on stage," he said, starting with his first gig at the South Texas State Fair.

That's the advice he gives to his students now, he said, because it's the best way to learn what people like to hear and see their reactions.

"There's nothing like watching the song in front of your audience," he said. "That's what I really recommend."

Although he's written "probably over 1,000 songs," he's still got a few on his bucket list. He would love to write for Tim McGraw or Tricia Yearwood, he said, and "everyone would have loved a George Strait cut."

LTeitz@BeaumontEnterprise.com

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A University of Houston student was beaten and carjacked near campus Monday afternoon, with university officials Tuesday confirming multiple suspects are now in custody.

The carjacking occurred when a female student was driving in the parking lot of a Mormon church in the 5000 block of Calhoun Road, near the south side of the UH main campus near Martin Luther King Boulevard and Wheeler Avenue. The church is near several off-campus student apartments and fraternity quarters.Oxfam, one of the world's most prominent relief agencies, could lose its funding from the British government over reports that its workers exploited survivors of a massive earthquake in Haiti, and possibly other disasters, for sex.

It is a "complete betrayal of both the people Oxfam were there to help and also the people that sent them there to do that job," Britain's international development secretary, Penny Mordaunt, told BBC News, which noted that the nonprofit received $44 million in government funds last year.

Mordaunt spoke Sunday - three days after a Times of London investigation accused Oxfam's then-director in Haiti, along with other workers, of running an illegal makeshift brothel after a 2010 quake devastated the country.

Oxfam has admitted to at least some of the wrongdoings alleged in the report, and the organization has promised an internal review and overhaul. "We are ashamed of what happened," the nonprofit's chair wrote in a statement Sunday. "We apologize unreservedly."

But contrition may not be enough. The Times alleged that Oxfam tried to hide the years-old allegations from the public, letting its country director in Haiti quietly resign rather than firing him after he admitted to using prostitutes.

And the Guardian reported new accusations over the weekend: that the same man, Roland van Hauwermeiren, was also accused of hiring sex workers in Chad.

The Times' report was based on sources familiar with the organization's work in Haiti around that time as well as a report summarizing an internal Oxfam investigation into the allegations.

Oxfam was in the midst of a large effort on the island after the quake, which killed more than 200,000 and left many more injured and displaced. The charity had a fund worth more than $100 million to provide relief supplies and help rebuild Haiti's infrastructure, the Times reported.

The majority of Oxfam's 230 staff members working in Haiti at the time are not accused of doing anything improper, but a small group of male aid workers living in Delmas, allegedly turned a rented guesthouse into what a source told the Times the men called "the whorehouse."City Council members, developers, builders and neighborhood leaders balked Monday at Mayor Sylvester Turner's goal of holding a council vote on new flood control regulations just two weeks after the details are released.

Some council members also expressed concern that city officials had circulated an early draft of the proposed floodplain ordinance to industry groups  homebuilders, developers, engineers  without soliciting input from council members or the neighborhoods they represent.

Read more: Turner proposes stricter development rules to boost flood control in Houston

In an unusual step, the mayor appeared briefly in the council chamber near the end of the lengthy committee hearing, propping himself on a table behind the council dais and observing part of the discussion, sometimes grinning or shaking his head when speakers questioned the timeline for the reforms.

Monday evening, he issued a statement pushing back against calls for a delay in considering the proposed rules.

"Council members have joined me in urging state and federal lawmakers to move urgently to provide the funding Houston needs to become more resilient and more flood resistant for when the waters rise again. We cannot make a convincing case without showing that we are moving urgently at the local level to find solutions for ourselves," Turner said. "To continue as if nothing has changed is unrealistic and to delay action is irresponsible."

Monday's meeting was the first step in the formal rollout of policies Turner mentioned late last month.

The mayor has proposed requiring all new buildings outside the floodplain to be elevated two feet above the ground, and all new construction within the 500-year floodplain to be lifted two feet above the projected flood level during a 500-year storm. Current rules stipulate that buildings be constructed one foot above the flood level in a 100-year storm.

Turner also intends to impose stiffer stormwater detention requirements for some types of redevelopment.

The proposals council discussed Monday, however, do not address detention rules or the elevation of homes outside floodplains; the mayor hopes to have those changes enacted by the summer, Houston Public Works Director Carol Haddock said.

Monday's discussion instead focused solely on Chapter 19, the portion of the city's code of ordinances that governs floodplains. Floodplains  mapped areas of flood risk, as determined by historic rainfall data and topography  are set by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and administered locally by Public Works.

Read more: After Harvey, Houston wants to change how it develops. What you need to know

The city's existing building rules apply only to the 100-year floodplain, the 117,240 acres and some 101,000 parcels of land deemed to have a 1 percent chance of flooding in any given year.

The mayor's proposal would extend many of those regulations to cover an additional 33,615 acres and another 86,000 parcels in the 500-year floodplain. Structures there are considered to have a 0.2 percent chance of flooding each year, though Houston has experienced 500-year storms in each of the last three years.

Haddock said requiring rebuilt or new homes to be placed two feet above the level of a 500-year flood remains the starting point for the discussion, but her presentation listed this point as "500 year + X feet," and she said conversations with industry groups and others could lead that figure to change.

Letters of feedback submitted to the city by the Greater Houston Builders Association, the Houston Real Estate Council and the American Council of Engineering Companies all questioned the data on which the proposal was based.

"We're still talking about two feet, but we've received some input that two feet might be more protective than we need," Haddock said. "We are verifying that against actual data that happened during Harvey and making sure we recommend to you the right number ... that represents protection to our community, but also not overly burden the cost of building and rebuilding in our floodplains."

City officials also removed phrasing that would have explicitly required pier-and-beam construction, but kept a prohibition on builders piling extra dirt on a site to reach the required home elevation.

Another shift from the initial rollout was that the city will not extend "substantial improvement" rules governing properties in the 100-year floodplain to those in the 500-year floodplain.

That means homeowners in the 500-year floodplain whose remodeling projects cost more than half the value of their homes would not be required to bring the entire structure up to code, including current elevation standards. Newly added rooms, however, would need to meet the new elevation requirement.

A final draft of the floodplain ordinance will be released Tuesday, Haddock said, and public comment will be accepted through Feb. 19, ahead of the item heading to council Feb. 28.

That timeline was unacceptable to a clear majority of the council members present Monday, including Councilwoman Brenda Stardig.

"If there's anyone on this council who believes that's acceptable, I'd be shocked. Less than a week? This is too important to our city," she said. "I won't be bullied into it and I won't be shamed into it."

Stardig also expressed concern that submitting the draft to industry groups, combined with a compressed timeline, would lead to public distrust of the proposal.

Councilman Mike Knox referenced an email from a constituent upset that developers had been given a chance to "sabotage flooding reform" without citizens being given the chance to push back.

"I do understand that could be a perception," Haddock said. "What I'd say is, when we're dealing with things directly related to how houses are built ... that I'll go to the experts in the industry, just like I'd go to a dentist when I've got a tooth problem."

Still, the trade groups' concerns were not fully addressed.

Marlene Gafrick, of developer MetroNational and the Houston Real Estate Council, said the city's floodplain rules need revision, but she called for more data analysis and further discussion of the proposed elevation requirement and the ban on adding extra dirt to properties in the floodplain.

Civil engineer Michael Bloom added that failing to make data-driven decisions could force citizens to over-invest in reducing their flooding risk to the point of diminishing returns.

Casey Morgan, of the Greater Houston Builders Association, echoed that, saying, "I do believe we'll continue to challenge the technical justification for going above the 500-year (flood elevation)."

A healthy chunk of the discussion focused on the added cost of the proposal. Mike Dishberger of Sandcastle Homes said the added cost of putting a 1,650-square-foot home on pier and beam versus a slab foundation would be $30,000. Haddock said her data suggests the cost would be closer to $10,000.

Flood victim Marise Mikulis suggested that debate  and discussions of the hundreds of thousands it could cost to elevate homes  missed the point.

"What about the cost of not raising them, and the cost of repairing my house three times in less than three years?" she said. "It is expensive to raise my house. It's really expensive to replace everything I own."

Leaders of the Super Neighborhood Alliance also called for the process to be slowed down, and backed Councilman Robert Gallegos' idea to have city officials educate the public about the reforms at the annual Capital Improvement Plan meetings being planned in each of the 11 council districts next month.

"We need time for the community to engage this and respond," alliance president Michael Huffmaster said, "and that time should begin now."AUSTIN  Democratic gubernatorial candidate Andrew White, taking to the small screen to bolster his chance to win the crowded March 6 primary, on Sunday announced he will start running a 30-second television ad for the next four weeks.

The TV ad that will run on Houston stations is the first from any of the nine candidates in the Democratic primary race to challenge incumbent Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in the November general election.

It underscores both White's push to turn out Houston voters to get him through the primary, and his fundraising lead in the race where he has raised more than $1.3 million, including a $1 million loan from himself, while closest rival Lupe Valdez has raised just over $100,000.

GRIEDER: Andrew White is trying to do the right thing by running for Texas governor

White, 45, a Houston entrepreneur and son of the late Gov. Mark White, is running as a "common-sense" Democrat without the endorsement of the party's top elite because of his more-conservative positions on some issues.

Top party leaders are backing Valdez, the former Dallas County sheriff.

RUNNING: Lupe Valdez rolls out Democratic challenge to Gov. Greg Abbott

Titled the "Son of Texas," the ad "tells the story of (White's) rescue efforts during Hurricane Harvey, the worst natural disaster in American history," White's campaign confirmed.

The ad will run through primary election day on Houston cable and commercial stations.

"These are the text messages neighbors sent Andrew White when Harvey hit. For five days, he went out in a small boat to help everyone he could," the narrator says in the ad.

"A common sense leader, Andrew knows Texas can do better. He's running for Governor to do right by every Texan. No matter what it takes."

The ad can be viewed here.As Harvard University economist Jason Furman said when he was Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors, our biggest worry about AI should be that there might not be enough of it. The United States needs to develop this powerful new technology to its fullest to maintain our economic and technological leadership in the face of increasingly sophisticated competition from China, which has made AI-development a strategic priority.

Of course, AI is fraught with ethical challenges. In the course on AI and Ethics I teach at Georgetown University, I find the students concerned that AI will be a biased, unaccountable force in their lives and that it will be deployed to create joblessness and exacerbate social and economic inequality.

The trade association I work for, the Software & Information Industry Association, addressed these challenges in its recent publication on ethical principles for developers and users of AI. Institutions need to develop policies and procedures to ensure that AI systems promote human welfare, respect human rights and foster the character traits that will enable people to live well in their communities.

In addition, policymakers have an important role to play. They should prepare themselves to address the policy challenges that will accompany the further development and use of AI throughout society and the economy. Here are some areas for policy development.

AI will make it harder to rely on individualized consent to protect people from privacy harms. AI-driven prediction systems will be able to infer new and sometimes sensitive information about people from information they have willingly revealed. It will be harder and harder to keep secrets involving sexual orientation, religious or political beliefs, and health conditions. At the same time, the enormous benefits of these inferences will lead to improvements in delivering public service, public health, and a variety of consumer products and services. We need a privacy regime that allows these beneficial uses of inferred information but encourages trust in the system by restricting information uses that pose a significant risk of harm.

AI-systems will improve consequential decision-making in credit granting, employment, housing and insurance, but they will also create new risks of disparate impact on protected classes. Policymakers should vigorously apply existing rules against discrimination so that the new AI-systems improve the accuracy and fairness of consequential decisions.

The newer AI-based prediction systems use factors and formulas that are not easily understandable to the general public. Exposing the formula or source code involved would be unnecessary and counterproductive. It would dry up the incentive to innovate by exposing the fruits of software R & D to all players in competitive markets, and it will not provide the understanding that leads to accountability. Policymakers must ensure, however, that institutions using these systems for important matters that affect the lives of consumers and citizens provide a coherent story that allows the public to trust that decisions are being made on the basis of factors that are accurate and relevant.

AI-systems are rapidly moving into tasks that used to be the sole province of human beings. The new AI workplace might have less need for human talents and skills, except at the very highest levels of data scientists. Policymakers must work with business to foster AI systems that supplement not replace human skills. A major challenge for our educational institutions will be to train todays students for the needs of tomorrows AI-intensive workplaces. Policymakers should ramp up support for programs that provide life-time retraining and skills development programs for workers who will need to be agile, nimble, and flexible throughout their working life. Now is also the time for policymakers to consider strong safety net programs for people who might not have, or might not be able to develop, the skills for the coming work environments.

We dont need a Federal Artificial Intelligence Commission to regulate all AI research and deployment. As one panel of industry and academic experts put it, AI is not any one thing, and the risks and considerations are very different in different domains.

But policymakers need to be alert to new challenges in their jurisdictions and vigorously apply existing rules to prevent harm from the use of AI-systems. They should assess whether there are gaps in existing law and regulation and seek to fill these gaps with sensible legal guardrails that prevent harm and foster trust. Finally, policymakers should consider ways to encourage human-centered AI at work and to provide training and social welfare programs to ease the transition to what can be a more productive and humane workplace of the future.President Trumps proposed $1.5 trillion infrastructure program takes a page out of his playbook as a real estate developer, leveraging other peoples money to build things. Trump is proposing a $200 billion federal contribution, about 13 percent of his hoped-for investment total; the idea is that the initial federal investment will encourage states, localities, and private investors to contribute the remaining 87 percent.

The programs centerpiece is a $100 billion federal matching fund that will provide up to 20 percent of the cost of a projecta ratio that reverses historical practice. Often, Washington puts up as much as 80 percent of the cost of highway projects, with localities contributing the rest. Trumps plan makes new revenuefor example, tolls on currently free interstatesthe biggest determinant of which projects will qualify for the federal match. A big question mark is whether a 20 percent federal contribution will be enough of a carrot to induce states to invest. And while the plan is billed as empowering states, the federal government will determine which projects get funded through the match programso Washington will maintain control, perhaps even more so than today.

The matching fund offers several advantages, though. One is that it can be flexibly applied to a wide range of infrastructure, particularly water and sewer projects, areas where older, post-industrial cities are facing billions of dollars in repairs. A federal matching plan that creates incentives for states to address their localities aging sewerage and supply could finally spark action. Another positive: heavy reliance on non-federal money will reduce political incentives for boondoggles. Its easy to build a road to nowhere when the federal government is paying for 80 percent of it. But when governors and mayors have to raise their own funds, they will need to make a stronger case to taxpayers that the proceeds will be spent well. Bad projects could still be built, of course, but local funding should promote greater public scrutiny. If states and localities end up refusing federal dollars, that could be a sign that local fiscal discipline worked.

Trumps plan also includes an additional $20 billion for existing federal infrastructure loan programs, with expanded project eligibility. Another $20 billion will be set aside for bold, innovative, and truly transformative projects, yet to be determined. As under older arrangements, Washington will pay for up to 80 percent of these projects.

Trump wants to reduce significantly the federal approval timelinefrom eight or more years for major projects down to two years, using a one agency, one decision approach. The lengthy permitting process is one reason that the Obama administrations 2009 stimulus failed to deliver much long-term valuethere simply werent enough high-quality, shovel-ready projects to spend it on. The Obama administration itself tried to chip away at a process that makes it difficult to implement infrastructure projects, but it made limited progress. History suggests that President Trump will also find it tough to streamline the regulatory red tape.

Another major part of Trumps plan looks problematic: $50 billion in grants for rural infrastructure, a large portion of which would come in the form of block grants to the states. Rural areas have clear infrastructure needs, such as better broadband and upgrades to small-town sewer systems, but rural America is also prime territory for boondoggle highway projects. Theres no evidence, for example, that building major highways through rural areas spurs economic growth. Yet roads seem to be the go-to item for too many rural-state governors.

The politics of getting an infrastructure plan through Congress will be grueling. Democrats will be keen to deny Trump any political victories. Environmentalists are already lining up to oppose the regulatory rollback. One encouraging sign is that Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumers need for federal funding for New Yorks Gateway Projectto build new rail tunnels under the Hudson Rivermay get him to force Democrats to the negotiating table. Where the $200 billion in federal funding will come from also remains to be seen.

But while the political prospects for a deal may be uncertain, the administration has at least put a proposal on the table that lives up to one of the presidents promises: it is a departure from business as usual in Washington.

Photo: Den Belitsky/iStockThis weekend, in a New York Times op-ed entitled Single Mothers Are Not the Problem, three sociologists argue that reducing single motherhood would not significantly lower poverty rates in the United States. If we were really serious about alleviating poverty, they maintain, we would introduce generous social policies more in line with those in other rich democracies.

Its a textbook example of social science as advocacy, which is not to say that the study on which the Times piece was based, due to appear in the prestigious American Journal of Sociology, is fake news. The authors show that as a percentage of all households, single-mother homes have declined since 1980. Those low numbersin 2013, only 8.8 percent of Americans lived in single-mother homes, down from 10.5 percent in 1980mean that further reducing such households wouldnt have much impact on national poverty rates. They also argue that single motherhood is a less useful predictor of poverty than low levels of education, unemployment, and forming households at young ages.

But by using the metric of households, lead researcher David Brady and his coauthors camouflage the primary reason that family scholars have gotten so hot and bothered about single motherhood: the children. Yes, the percentage of single-mother households has declined; thats largely an artifact of demographic changes that have increased the overall number of households. Those changes, including mass immigration, later marriage, and more people living alone, are largely irrelevant to the well-being of American children. But during the same decades that the authors show the rate of single-parent households declining, the percentage of children living with a single mother tripled.

Nor do the authors mention any of the other numbers that continue to alarm demographers, social scientists, and family researchers. Children in single-parent homes are three times as likely to be poor as children living with their married parents. Brookings scholars Isabel Sawhill and Adam Thomas ran a simulation analysis in which they married off potential single parents. They concluded that if the proportion of single-parent families had remained the same in 1998 as it was in 1970, child-poverty rates would have been 20 percent lower.

Nor would you guess from the Times article that poverty is far from the only reason to view single parenthood with concern. Kids in single-parent homes have lower educational achievement, commit more crime, and suffer more emotional problems, even when controlling for parental income and education. Not only do young men and women from intact families (regardless of race and ethnicity) get more education and earn higher earnings than those raised with single mothers; they also do better than children who have a stepparent at home. Children growing up in an area where single-parent families are the norm have less of a chance of upward mobility than a child who lives where married-couple families dominate (regardless of whether that child lives with a single parent or with married parents). The evidence that the prevalence of single-parent households poses risks to individual children and communities goes on and on.

Yet even those risks understate the extent to which the authors of Single Mothers Are Not the Problem ignore the effects of family fragmentation on children. When they refer to two parents, they include cohabiting parents and stepparent familiesa common but misleading trope in the social sciences. Two-parent households do not necessarily signify stable family lives, and cohabiting unions are considerably more fragile than those of married parents. Cohabiters are twice as likely to break up before their childs 12th birthday; the difference holds for couples at all education levels. By age 12, reports Wendy Manning, 40 percent of American children will have spent at least part of their lives in cohabiting households. Stepparents generally mean higher incomes for the children in the house but also lower educational achievement and higher rates of criminal involvement.

How should we address the disquieting gaps in childhood well-being stemming from the family changes of the past 50 years? For many liberals, including the authors, Denmark is the answer. The paper compares poverty rates of single mothers in the United States after taxes and transfers with those in other rich democracies. Not surprisingly, Scandinaviaespecially Denmarkstands at the head of the class. Because of [Denmarks] generous social policies, the writers explain, single mothers and their children have a similar level of economic security as other families.

Perhaps, but some questions about the researchers definitions are already being raised. The larger point is that welfare policies cant be understood apart from a countrys historical, cultural, and demographic realities. In recent decades, the United States has seen a large influx of low-skilled immigrants who, while hardworking, often need to rely on government help to pay for food, health care, and bilingual education for their children. The countrys relatively modest social-safety net has (arguably) kept those costs under control. The far more generous welfare policies of Denmark, on the other hand, limit the number of poor immigrants that the country can support. In 2016, the country dramatically restricted immigration, determining it a serious threat to public order and national security. Moreover, while Denmarks generosity provides economic security, it may not lead to upward mobility for children. Immigrant children are considerably less successful in school than native-born children, while the achievement gap between children in single-mother and married-couple homes is higher than in the United States.

We should stop obsessing over how many single mothers there are and stop shaming them, Brady and his coauthors conclude. Really, though, we should stop obsessing about Denmarkand stop shaming those worried about the effects of family breakdown on American children and communities.

Photo by David McNew/Getty ImagesIn September 1862, Otto von Bismarck, the new prime minister of Prussia, went to the Prussian Chamber of Deputies to confront the Budget Committee. His face still sunburned from a trip to the south of France, he urged the lawmakers not to waste time in political debate while Germany remained ununited. It is not to Prussias liberalism that Germany looks, he said, but to its power. . . . It is not by means of speeches and majority resolutions that the great issues of the day will be decidedthat was the great mistake of 1848 and 1849but by Eisen und Blut (iron and blood).

Across the Atlantic, Abraham Lincoln reached a similar conclusionor so Edmund Wilson argued in his 1962 book Patriotic Gore. In Wilsons reading, Lincoln, too, had used iron and blood to achieve his goals: both he and Bismarck had established a strong central government over hitherto loosely coordinated peoples. Lincoln kept the Union together by subordinating the South to the North; Bismarck imposed on the German states the cohesive hegemony of Prussia. Other scholars have made the same argument more recently.

Was Wilson right to find a similarity of method and purpose in the two greatest statesmen of their age? Bismarck carried out his policy by going to war with neighboring states and using fighting words to stimulate German nationalist sentiment, the chauvinism that enabled him to unite the German Reich in January 1871. He himself pronounced the definitive judgment on the morality of the first of these wars, against Denmark in 1864. A French diplomat called on him in the Wilhelmstrasse and struggled to express his disapproval of Prussias conduct without violating the canons of diplomatic politeness. Dont put yourself out, Bismarck told the Frenchman. Nobody but my king thinks that I acted honorably.

No less devious were the Bismarckian machinations that led to the war with Austria in 1866 (a manufactured dispute over the administration of the conquered Danish duchies of Schleswig and Holstein) and the war with France in 1870 (which had its origin in the Hohenzollern candidature for the Spanish throne, which Bismarck himself secretly promoted). All of Bismarcks victims shared the frustration of Austrias Franz Josef. How can one avoid war, the Habsburg emperor asked, when the other side wants it?

Underlying Bismarcks policy of blood and iron was the belief that a nation is a quasi-biological organism with a morally unconditional right to live and to breathe, and that in order to become a nation, a people may, on one spurious pretext or another, prey upon other peoples. The right of conquest, Bismarck said, was sacred, and never more so than when undertaken in order that Germany might live. Prussias actions, he declared in 1866, followed from the right of the German nation to exist, to breathe, to be united; it is the right and the duty of Prussia to give the German nation the foundation necessary for its existence.

The argument that Lincoln, like Bismarck, was a blood-and-iron statesman rests on the notion that his statecraft was a variation on the Bismarckian theme. Lincoln, in this interpretation, believed that in order to survive, or even to vindicate its founding ideals, a nation has a morally unconditional right to make war on those citizens who reject either the nation itself or its ideals. But this was not what Lincoln believed. The thinking that led him to wage the Civil War was quite different from Bismarcks.

The question of Lincolns responsibility for the Civil War turns on his policy toward the seceding states. According to historians such as Lord Acton, if Lincoln had really been the freedom-loving statesman he claimed to be, he would have recognized the right of the secessionist populations to choose their own destinies. More recently, bloggers have taken up Actons argument and in breezy and inaccurate blog posts distorted what Lincoln did and the sequence in which he did it. The record needs to be set straight.

In deciding where his moral duty lay, Lincoln had first to determine the criteria by which he was to judge the morality of secession. Was it a matter of numbers, and if so, how large did the numbers have to be? I, a lone citizen of the United States, may announce that I am seceding from the Union and attempt to make off with such federal property in my neighborhood as I fancy. If I do this, I will almost certainly be seized, tried, and jailed. No president would judge my act of secession legitimate. But does secession become legitimate if, say, 51 percent of a particular population approves it? Sixty-seven percent? One hundred percent? May particular segments of the populationblacks, for example, or slavesbe excluded from the calculus of legitimacy? By what procedure is popular approval of secession to be manifested? Must its expression take the form of a plebiscite, or is it sufficient that conventions composed of notable citizens decide?

Lincoln could have pronounced a purely personal judgment on the moral legitimacy of secession, but that was not his job. He had his station and knew its duties: when he became president, he swore to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. The only criterion, he supposed, that he could reasonably use in judging the legitimacy of secession was that of the Constitution itself. James Buchanan, Lincolns predecessor, had concluded that the Constitution forbade secession; Lincoln reached the same conclusion. Yale constitutional scholar Akhil Amar argues persuasively, in Americas Constitution: A Biography, that Lincolns interpretation was correct and that the Constitution prevents subunits from unilaterally bolting whenever they became dissatisfied. When the war came, it came not because of Lincolns predilection for blood and iron, but because of his interpretation of the law of the landa fundamental expression of its moresand his application of it to a particular case.

One can, as in a law-school exercise, split hairs ad infinitum. Was the Constitution itself a legitimate law, given that it was a by-product of treason and rebellion? Can a charter that recognizes, as the Constitution does, a right of withdrawal from an older instrument (the Articles of Confederation), foreclose the same right of exit from the compact that it has established in its place? And even if Lincoln was right about the letter of the Constitution, was he not, in prosecuting the Civil War, violating the spirit of freedom that gave birth to it? Did a point not come, after quantities of blood had been spilled and the Confederacy had given so many proofs of devotion to its Cause, when Lincoln ought to have concluded, as William Gladstone did, that the Southern people had made a nation, and to heck with the Constitution?

Here was the larger moral problem. Lincoln believed that if the United States were broken up by internal dissension, the result would be a setback for the cause of free democratic government from which it might not soon recover. The question, he said, was

whether a constitutional republic, or a democracya government of the people, by the same peoplecan, or cannot, maintain its territorial integrity, . . . whether discontented individuals, too few in numbers to control administration, according to organic law, . . . [can] break up their Government, and thus practically put an end to free government upon earth. . . . When ballots have fairly, and constitutionally, decided, there can be no successful appeal, back to bullets; . . . there can be no successful appeal, except to ballots themselves, at succeeding elections.

Lincolns point was that if you can opt out of a democracy whenever you lose an election, democracy will never work. The moral case for the Union was even stronger, he believed, given that those who were trying to break out were doing so not because their liberties had been violated, but because they insisted on a perpetual right to take slaves out of their own states and into the national territory.

Its true that Lincoln suspended the writ of habeas corpus. Its true that under his leadership, his secretary of state arrested persons obnoxious to the regime. But if there were Bismarckian touches in Lincolns statecraft, he was not, on the whole, a Bismarckian statesman. Bismarck himself sensed this; he disliked Lincoln. The two men were on different sides of the struggle between liberty and coercion. An earlier generation had a better sense of this than ours does. We have been at war with Metternich and Bismarck, the British historian George Macaulay Trevelyan wrote after World War I. Cavour and Garibaldi gave us Italy for an ally, while Washington and Lincoln gave us America.

Trevelyan, like his great-uncle Macaulay, Americas founders, and Lincoln himself, was Whiggish in his approach to history: he focused on the moral choices statesmen made and how those choices enlarged or restricted individual liberty. By contrast, our contemporary approach to history is almost Darwinian. Edmund Wilson anticipated this trend in Patriotic Gore, in which he urged historians to

interest themselves in biological and zoological phenomena. In a recent Walt Disney film showing life at the bottom of the sea, a primitive organism called a sea slug is seen gobbling up smaller organisms through a large orifice at one end of its body; confronted with another sea slug of an only slightly lesser size, it ingurgitates that, too. Now, the wars fought by human beings are stimulated as a rule primarily by the same instincts as the voracity of the sea slug.

If Bismarck offered a sea-slug apology for his statesmanship, others have attributed a sea-slug vision to Lincoln himself, who (in their view) differed from Bismarck only in the way that he veiled the Darwinian Machtkampf with a spare but poetically appealing rhetoric of idealism. Paraphrasing the thesis of a recent study of Lincoln and Darwin, the critic Richard Eder pointed to the larger tragedy at the root of Darwins and Lincolns work: Universal death as the necessary agent of natural selection; vast death as the agent of emancipation.

Nature has rarely shown a greater sense of humor than when she arranged for the assembly of the genetic material that became Abraham Lincoln at roughly the same time the fertilized egg that was Charles Darwin first leaped into the womb. Both men were born on February 12, 1809. But attempts to find correspondences between the very different, in some ways antithetical, types of evolution in which each man specializedbiological evolution in Darwins case, historical evolution in Lincolnsare problematic.

The difficulty lies in comparing the actions of organisms that have developed a conscience and a moral imagination to the actions of organisms that lack such conscientious power. It is one thing if your cat playfully torments a wounded animal, another if you do. Conscience enables its possessor to sit in judgment on the characteristics that have won him a spot in the race for genetic victory: it enables its possessor, at times, to reject naturally selected traits that have helped pay for the winning ticket he holds in the lottery of life. History is the record of the moral acts of morally conscientious organisms; biology is the record of the biological acts of morally unconscious organisms. The confusion of the two realms is a symptom of our time.

From the perspective of history and morality, Bismarcks attempt to formulate a crude form of social Darwinism, a Prussia-as-sea-slug style of statesmanship, was a step backward. A selected traitfinesse, for example, in preying on the weakis not necessarily one worthy of moral approval. It might, for example, be some day proved that the capacity for crime is a selected trait, that the deviousness, the bold badness, of the criminal intellect has resulted in genetic mutations that have contributed to the evolutionary fitness of the human organism. Stupidity, too, might prove to be such a trait. If intelligence has at times served an evolutionary turn, so undoubtedly has the stupidity that is, after all, far more commonthe stupidity that shields the mind from lifes horrors and so enables the unintelligent person to thrive and reproduce, in contrast to the too-sensitive perceptiveness, the acute nervous delicacy, of his intelligent brother, who often makes a hash of things. Yes, nature is ironical, Hippolite says in Dostoevskys The Idiot. Why does she create her very best human beings only to make fools of them later?

A Darwinian can, of course, argue that our conscientious morality is itself an evolutionary artifact, and that our moral imagination is simply a higher expression of the natural imagination. Thus Shakespeares Polixenes, in The Winters Tale, tells Perdita:

Yet nature is made better by no mean



But nature makes that mean: so, over that art,



Which you say adds to nature, is an art



That nature makes. You see, sweet maid, we marry



A gentler scion to the wildest stock,



And make conceive a bark of baser kind



By bud of nobler race: this is an art



Which does mend nature, change it rather, but



The art itself is nature.

The moral art that mends our merely instinctual, biological, genetically striving nature may itself, paradoxically, be a natural one. But if so, it only proves that the law of evolution can transcend the motives in which it began, and develop, in its highest evolutionary forms, an ethos of moral purpose that at times turns its back on the primitive methods that midwifed it.

Let us have faith that right makes might, Lincoln said in February 1860. We cannot Darwinize Lincoln, who insisted that biological might is not necessarily the same as moral right. Still less can we Bismarckize him. Yet it may be that once an organism has developed a moral imagination, what is Darwinian and Bismarckian in its mental organization can be Lincolnized. Such, at any rate, is a thought that gives comfort on the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincolns birth.

Photo: Library of Congress/Getty ImagesGreenpeace showcases its work in the Amazon with a virtual reality film at Glastonbury 2017

Greenpeace has been trialling the use of virtual reality to help its fundraisers engage with people at festivals, and has seen sign-up rates double as a result.

Paula Radley, face-to-face operations manager at Greenpeace, told last weeks Fundraising Live conference, organised by Civil Society Media, that using virtual reality headsets as part of its exhibition areas helps people to experience different places.

At many events we had people queuing up to talk to face-to-face fundraisers, she said.

She said it was the combination of the virtual reality video, the way the wider exhibition area is decorated, and the chance for a fundraiser to sit down with a potential supporter that made it successful.

However, she added that one of the challenges is that it attracts 16 and 17 year olds, when for face-to-face were really aiming for 30 plus.

Greenpeace worked around this by having two queues  one for under 21s and existing supporters that was manned by volunteers, and one for potential supporters, which was manned by professional fundraisers.

Another challenge at festivals is the number of drunk people turning up, but she said that they politely encourage people to come back in five hours.

In response to a question from the audience, Radley said Greenpeace has tried virtual reality for doorstep fundraising but that it did not work as well as at festivals.

It was a bit strange knocking on someones door and asking them to put on goggles, she said.

VR app

Greenpeace has also been experimenting with 360-degree video and virtual reality via a phone app.

The idea is to make supporters feel really excited so they wont forget us, according to Kasia Nieduzak, lead generation, acquisition executive at Greenpeace.

The app uses 360-degree video to show people things what life is like on one of the charity's ships and in the Amazon rainforest. So far 12,000 people have downloaded the app.

For Christmas the charity created a pack that included a virtual reality headset, a map and stickers.

Greenpeace sold 1,750 kits and asked for a minimum donation of 10. The average donation was 13.

Nieduzak said the campaign worked well with existing supporters, but that there was an issue with converting people to become regular givers as it was often bought as a present.

Greepeace is planning to add further virtual reality videos and continue marketing the kit.Oxfam's chair has announced a package of measures to strengthen the prevention and handling of sexual abuse cases in the wake of revelations published by The Times.

In a statement published on Oxfams website yesterday, Thomson said the charity would strengthen its vetting and recruitment of staff, establish a new, independent, external whistleblowing helpline, overhaul its staff induction process and recommit to report to the appropriate authorities in full, any issues that arise that could affect the safety of those we work for or the confidence of the public.

Thomson became chair of Oxfams board of trustees in October 2017 having joined as a trustee in March of that year. She was formerly a senior executive at the BBC.

Thomsons statement in full reads: "As the new chair of Oxfam I share the anger and shame that behaviour like that highlighted in Haiti in 2011 happened in our organisation. It is clear that such behaviour is completely outside our values and should never be tolerated. Oxfam prides itself of being a transparent organisation that works to make life better for poor and vulnerable people, an organisation that puts women at the heart of everything we do. In the words of our chief executive Mark Goldring, we are ashamed of what happened. We apologise unreservedly. We have made big improvements since 2011 and today I commit that we will improve further.

"My job as a new chair is now to look forward. Mark Goldring and I are working closely together to lead this. We will continue to address the underlying cultural issues that allowed this behaviour to happen. We also want to satisfy ourselves that we do now have a culture of openness and transparency and that we fully learn the lessons of events in 2011. Not only will we always be true to those we serve and those who support us, we will also be seen to be so.

"As a direct result of the stories in The Times, staff members have come forward with concerns about how staff were recruited and vetted in this case. We will examine these in more detail to ensure we further strengthen the improved safeguarding, recruitment, vetting and staff management procedures that were put in place after 2011.

"Earlier this year, our board of trustees appointed an independent consultant to review how we can better promote and enforce a positive culture right through all of our workforce and drive out unacceptable behaviour. This builds on the work we have done since 2011 to tackle abuse, including setting up a dedicated whistleblowing line and a safeguarding team.

"We will now extend the review's remit to take a detailed look both at this case and our recruitment and management of staff in challenging environments and emergencies, where the urgent need for staff to be put in place to help save lives puts enormous pressure on recruiters to fill posts. If that review brings about a safer environment for all, then the publicity of the last few days, painful as it has been, will also have been valuable.

"This is part of a package of measures that I am announcing today that will strengthen our vetting, and induction of staff as well as a commitment to drive positive behaviour among all staff and improve compliance with our policies. We will be meeting with both the Department for International Development and the Charity Commission during the next week to discuss the details of these measures and to explore further action.

"As recent events have shown, sexual abuse is a blight on society and Oxfam is not immune. Indeed, NGOs that work in often fragile and unstable environments can become targets for abusers. We have made significant improvements since 2011 in our efforts to expose and eliminate sexual abuse but we know we have to be vigilant and to continue to improve if we are to constantly live up to the high standards rightly expected of us. It is not sufficient to be appalled by the behaviour of our former staff - we must and will learn from it and use it as a spur to improvement."

In a blogpost on its website, Kevin Watkins, chief executive of Save the Children, has also announced that STC will be looking at strengthening its safeguarding procedures following the scandal. Read the statement in full here.

NCVO welcomes new measures

Peter Kellner, chair of the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, released a statement on behalf of the umbrella body yesterday, supporting Oxfams announcement of new measures.

Kellner said: International development charities take abuse issues very seriously and are constantly working to root out those who are looking to do wrong under the guise of helping some of the worlds most vulnerable. All the major charities have policies and procedures in place and dedicate significant effort to minimising the risk of abuse taking place. However, it is clear that more can and must be done, not only to revive the reputation of those charities in the news but also to maintain public confidence in the sector as a whole.

I welcome Oxfam's package of measures announced today. I hope they ensure that there can be no repeat of the disgusting behaviour that has been reported in the past few days. These reports should and, I believe, will prompt other organisations to ensure that they, too, enforce the very highest standards.

We will work alongside Bond, the umbrella body for international development charities, and the Charity Commission, to ensure that all charities operating overseas are meeting the standards of the best.

We will strive for a consensus, including with the Department for International Development, on tough measures that command the confidence of the public, many millions of whom lend their support to the vital international aid work carried out by charities. They will have been deeply upset by what they have read. They deserve better. We must make sure that bad behaviour, however rare, is never tolerated.Penny Lawrence today resigned as deputy chief executive of Oxfam, following several days of negative coverage as the charity was widely criticised over its handling of sexual misconduct in 2011.

On Sunday the charity announced a raft of new measures to improve its safeguarding.

The charity's senior leaders met with the international development secretary and the Charity Commission earlier today, after the Times revealed details of senior staff paying for sex in Haiti. Oxfam has been criticised for not being open enough with the Commission, DfID or the public.

'I take full responsibility'

Lawrence said: "I am deeply sad to announce that I have resigned as deputy chief executive of Oxfam GB.

"Over the last few days we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed to adequately act upon. It is now clear that these allegations - involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad - were raised before he moved to Haiti.

"As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility.

"I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfam's supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us.

"It has been such a privilege to work for such an amazing organisation that has done and needs to continue to do such good in the world."

Mark Goldring, chief executive of Oxfam GB, said: "I deeply respect Penny's decision to accept personal responsibility. Like us, she is appalled at what happened and is determined to do what is best for Oxfam and the people we exist to help.

"I would like to place on record my sincere thanks for the years of dedicated service that Penny has given to Oxfam and the fight against poverty around the world."

DfID: Oxfam must deliver progress

Mordaunt met with Mark Goldring, the chief executive of Oxfam, and Caroline Thomson, its chair, yesterday and told them they must make improvements and report back by the end of this week.

Neither Goldring, nor Thomson were at the charity in 2011.

Oxfam made a full and unqualified apology  to me, and to the people of Britain and Haiti - for the appalling behaviour of some of their staff in Haiti in 2011, and for the wider failings of their organisations response to it, Penny Mordaunt, international development secretary said.

She added that she had been assured that the charity is cooperating fully with the authorities in Haiti and will do so in any other country where abuse has been exposed.

The perpetrators in Haiti were not British nationals and Mordaunt has now directed Oxfam to immediately provide full details of those involved to the governments of their home countries, so that appropriate legal processes can be taken forward.

Oxfam must also confirm to DfID by the end of the week precisely how they will handle any forthcoming allegations around safeguarding - historic or live - in a way in which the public can have confidence. We expect this process to include an independent and external element of scrutiny.

Mordaunt said Oxfam must demonstrate the moral leadership necessary to address this scandal, rebuild the trust of the British public, their staff and the people they aim to help, and deliver progress on these assurances and that she would judge the charity on actions going forward.

Oxfam response

Responding to Mordaunt, Thomson said the charity was committed to improving.

She said: "I would like to thank the secretary of state for a very challenging but constructive conversation. We unreservedly apologised to her as well as to our supporters, donors and the people of Haiti for the things that happened in our name.

"We told her of the significant improvements since 2011, including setting up a dedicated safeguarding team but also set out our plans for significant changes in our operations to ensure such events are less likely to occur and if they do are handled differently in future. In particular we assured her of our commitment to full accountability and transparency in all our operations and said that a special Trustee group, chaired by me, would monitor implementation.

"Oxfam is in total agreement with the secretary of state's further proposals. We recognise that we have some way to go to persuade her that we have the right moral leadership to be fully entrusted with public money. But we are committed to working with her, DFID and the Charity Commission to prove we can meet her expectations."

The international development secretary has criticised Oxfams moral leadership ahead of a crisis meeting with the charity later today.

Speaking to the BBCs Andrew Marr yesterday, Penny Mordaunt questioned the charitys handling of its 2011 investigation into allegations that senior staff used prostitutes while working for the charity in Haiti, after the earthquake which rocked the country in 2010.

Mordaunt said: Im very clear, it doesnt matter if youve got a whistleblowing hotline. It doesnt matter if youve got good safeguarding practices in place. If the moral leadership at the top of the organisation isnt there then we cannot have you as a partner.

Mordaunt also said that many of the staff at Oxfam who are doing good work have also been betrayed by the revelations.

Oxfam has denied it tried to cover up the reasons why four staff members were sacked, and a further three resigned, including the charitys country director for Haiti. Mordaunt, however, told Marr that the charitys funding partnership with the government is now at risk.

Mordaunt has invited representatives from Oxfam to meet with her later today. According to the BBC; Michelle Russell, director of investigations, monitoring and enforcement at the Charity Commission, will also be in attendance.

The scandal begun on Friday, when The Times newspaper published a story accusing the charity of covering up the use of sex workers by senior members of its Haiti team.

Over the weekend, the Times made further allegations of sexual misconduct by Oxfam staff in Chad and claimed that Oxfam "failed to warn" other aid agencies about the behaviour of those dismissed when they applied for new jobs in the sector.

Charity Commission says full details of Oxfam investigation not given

In a statement issued over the weekend, the Charity Commission was also critical of Oxfam, saying the charity did not disclose allegations and evidence of abuse of beneficiaries or of any potential crimes involving minors.

The Commission said that, had Oxfam provided the full details of the allegations, its response at the time would have been different.

It has also called on all charities to engage with the regulator frankly and openly and said it must fully understand the allegations that have been made to ensure that we have confidence in the charitys approach in the event of an investigation.

The Charity Commission statement in full reads: "The allegations reported in the media have absolutely no place in society, and are made all the more shocking by the alleged involvement of charity workers. Charities are rightly held to the highest standards.

In August 2011, Oxfam made a report to the Commission about an ongoing internal investigation into allegations of misconduct by staff members involved in their Haiti programme. It explained that the misconduct related to inappropriate sexual behaviour, bullying, harassment and the intimidation of staff. The report to us stated there had been no allegations, or evidence, of any abuse of beneficiaries. It also made no mention of any potential sexual crimes involving minors. Our approach to this matter would have been different had the full details that have been reported been disclosed to us at the time.

We have written to the charity as a matter of urgency to request further information regarding the events in Haiti in 2011 to establish greater clarity on this matter. This includes a timeline of events, information about when the charity was made aware of specific allegations and the detail of the investigations findings and conclusions. This information will be considered as part of an ongoing case regarding the charitys approach to safeguarding.

It is important that charities engage with the regulator frankly and openly. We must fully understand the allegations that have been made to ensure that we have confidence in the charitys approach to safeguarding now and in the future."

Oxfams chair yesterday announced the charity would be launching a package of measures to strengthen the prevention and handling of sexual abuse cases in the wake of the news. The announcement can be read in full here.

Bond important that lessons are learned

Bond, the umbrella body for international development charities, has made a statement on the issue over the weekend. It said it is working with its members and the Charity Commission.

Tamsyn Barton, chief executive of Bond, said: "The reported behaviour and conduct of NGO employees in Haiti is completely deplorable and contrary to the values and high standards the development and humanitarian sector is rightly expected to adhere to. It is very important that we learn the lessons from this as a sector to ensure that we have the best preventative mechanisms in place.

However, we cannot allow the actions of a few undermine the incredible work charities do to provide shelter, food and healthcare in some of the most difficult environments in the world, and often at desperate times for the world's poorest people. These organisations are often the only lifeline for people facing conflict, climate change and extreme poverty.

Bond is coordinating with members and linking up with the Charity Commission to ensure that vulnerable people are protected by robust safeguarding and whistle-blowing policies and practices."

NCVO has said it will support this effort.On Friday the Times reported details of an internal investigation into staff who had found to be paying vulnerable Haitian women for sex. There were more revelations over the weekend: that the staff involved had been able to secure jobs in other charities, as well as separate allegations about Oxfam and other charity workers.

Oxfam stands accused of trying to cover up exploitation of vulnerable women to protect its own reputation and not doing enough to warn other charities or inform key stakeholders, including the Department for International Development and the Charity Commission.

From the timing and content of the stories, as well the reaction from politicians, the public and the media, we can learn about the culture and climate in parts of Oxfam in 2011 and societys attitude to sexual abuse and exploitation in the present day.

What they cannot tell us, though, is what the situation regarding sexual misconduct in charities is now. That is why it is important not to rush to judgement, but also why Oxfam must now do everything in its power to demonstrate openness.

There are many questions that need to be asked of Oxfam, the Charity Commission and DfID to establish what happened in 2011, what the failings were, what the risk of this happening again is - both at Oxfam and other charities - and what steps can be taken to minimise those risks and reassure vulnerable beneficiaries, donors and the public.

Why now?

The first question on many peoples minds will be: why now? The events took place in 2011, so why are we only hearing about them seven years later?

At this stage it would be easy to go down the conspiracy theory route. The right wing press have it in for charities. The Conservative Party hates big aid charities and this is punishment for Oxfams poverty report last month.

Its tempting to clutch to these theories because it absolves charities of any responsibility and doesnt require them to take any remedial action. But this is wrong, and clinging to the idea is potentially damaging for charities.

There is not, as far as I can see, any big conspiracy. But there is a reason that the story has made the front pages now.

Wider societal trend

This is part of a wider trend of calling out past and present sexual harassment and exploitation, which can be argued to have begun with allegations against Harvey Weinstein, and has now spread to almost every area of public life. We should not be surprised that charities are being touched by this.

There is a ripple effect. The more people speak out, the more confident others are in speaking out.

With better understanding of sexual abuse, harassment and predatory behaviour than ever before, the goalposts have also shifted, and past behaviour is now being seen differently and judged against todays higher standards.

What was considered to be acceptable, or at least forgivable in the eyes of many, fifty, ten or even three years ago, is now rightly considered an appalling act of predatory and exploitative behaviour.

Essentially, this is a story about a men paying for sex, which is now A Thing in a way it maybe wasnt a decade ago.

This all also makes the story more valuable to newspapers and means they are prepared to put the resource in to verify what they have been told, and to place it prominently - in this case three front pages in a row.

What did Oxfam get right?

Oxfam didnt get everything wrong, and its important to remember that if we are to truly learn the lessons.

Firstly Oxfams initial reaction when the abuse in Haiti was reported was correct. It opened an internal investigation and those involved were removed quickly. It also contacted the Charity Commission and DfID - more on this later.

It is also correct in its approach towards greater transparency, which since 2011 has seen it become one of the leaders in the field. Its annual report and accounts are more detailed than most, including the publication of the number of complaints of sexual harassment. It would be a backward step if the reaction in Oxfam now was to close ranks and reduce the amount of information it publishes.

Lastly its reaction on Sunday clearly demonstrated contrition and a determination to improve. The charity should be commended and supported as it looks for ways to improve its own safeguarding in the future.

What did Oxfam get wrong?

The central charge from the beginning has been that Oxfam tried to cover this up. It is quite difficult to argue with this statement, especially given the initial response to the story on Friday morning.

Basically Oxfam was too slow to respond. News is getting faster and faster paced by the year, and first thing on Friday morning Oxfam had no public statement. The silence was deafening - and the void was filled with people condemning the charity, the sector and calling for an end to aid.

I got a press statement shortly before 11am. Even then it was a pretty poor statement. Yes Oxfam was appalled, and explained that its safeguarding processes had improved since then. But the statement was not attributed to anyone, making it feel as though Oxfams current leadership were trying to distance themselves from the mistakes of their predecessors.

Oxfam supporters got a personal email from the chief executive Mark Goldring on Friday evening. This was a better response, more personal in tone than the media statement and offered reassurance to supporters who might be concerned. But how many of them will have already heard condemnation of the charity in their workplaces, on the radio and via social media? It may have been too late to change their minds.

On Saturday morning, Goldring finally appeared on national radio via the Today programme - only about 24 hours after he should have done. By this stage there were more allegations to defend - that those who had been sacked or resigned were able to find jobs in other aid agencies.

Goldring went further on Saturday, expressly admitting that he wished the charity had made it clear that the issues related to sexual misconduct. I think he was right to say this. Having looked at our coverage from 2011, it really did not convey the seriousness of the incident.

Could Oxfam have done more in 2011?

There are also questions about whether Oxfam should have done more in 2011 to not only root out the culprits from Oxfam, but from the rest of the sector.

I wouldnt want to leap to judgements without all the facts about the situation in Haiti, but I hope that as part of the ongoing external review the legal advice that told the charity not to report it to authorities is considered.

Meanwhile, there is the issue of staff references. While in most cases Oxfam provided no official reference, some of those who had been removed were able to continue working in the sector. Oxfam's failure to speak publicly about the allegations meant those staff were able to get new jobs via unofficial references from Oxfam colleagues.

The wider sector also has a role to play here. Why were charities employing people who were unable to obtain an official reference from their employer?

Oxfam appears to be calling for some sort database of aid workers and better sharing of information between agencies - this may be something of a logistical nightmare, and in the mean time it may be better for individual bodies to review their own recruitment processes.

And individuals who provided references in a personal capacity, when the charity would refuse to provide them, need to think about why they felt their former colleague deserved the chance to continue working with vulnerable people.

Questions for the Charity Commission

The Charity Commission has so far made two public statements on the subject, making clear that it thinks Oxfam has handled this badly. It is contacting Oxfam and demanding answers.

But what isnt clear from either of its statements is whether anyone at the regulator pressed Oxfam for more detail about the events in 2011, or even demanded to see the final version of its report.

Speaking to Radio 4s Today programme, Michelle Russell, director of investigations, refused to say why the regulator had not asked to see the full report, repeating that it would have acted differently if it had been given more detailed information by the charity.

To be fair to the regulator, safeguarding is an issue that it is taking incredibly seriously of late. It issued an alert to all charities at the end of last year urging them to review their policies if they have not done so within the year.

Its also worth noting that it was 2012 when it published detailed guidance for the sector, setting out its expectations.

What now?

Oxfams senior leaders are meeting with the international development secretary Penny Mordaunt and the regulator today.

To her credit, Mordaunt appeared willing to hear the charity's side of the story when she appeared on the Andrew Marr show yesterday.

While shes clearly, and rightly, very concerned about the moral leadership at Oxfam and more widely, at least she has appeared willing to look at the facts before rushing to judgement.

Inevitably this has opened up the ongoing debate about the UKs aid budget, and the sector should be prepared for further scrutiny. It is important that charities are able to answer questions openly, quickly and fully.

Oxfam, and by default its beneficiaries, do not deserve to be punished for the actions of a few and the mistakes of managers who are no longer there. But at the same time, Oxfam and the wider charity sector must make sure that they understand what happened and why. They must take action to reduce the chances of it happening again, and, importantly, be seen to take this action.After six months of reporting, Jamie Thompson was lost. The Dallas-based freelance reporter had spent half a year on what would become her piece de resistance, but struggled with how to structure it. So she turned to Mike Wilson, the editor of the Dallas Morning News. They started meeting at Cindis New York Deli and Bakery, around the corner from the News office, to sift through Thompsons material. They brainstormed ledes, shared updates, and exchanged ideas over plates of scrambled eggs and pots of coffee. The result of those early morning breakfasts? An incredible reconstruction of one of the most tragic days in recent Texan history.

Published online February 2nd (and in print this past Sunday), Standoff gives a real-time account of the July 7, 2016 shooting of police officers in Dallas. Its the only behind-the-scenes look at how the Dallas SWAT team ultimately cornered and killed the shooter, who took the lives of five officers and injured several others. Through hours of interviews, photographs, public documents, and archival audio, Thompson recreates the tragic night, the details of which have been murky until now.

ICYMI: An ongoing feud between two media goliaths

In the early evening of July 7, protesters gathered in downtown Dallas in response to the killing of two menAlton Sterling and Philando Castileby police officers in Louisiana and Minnesota, respectively. The protest was one of several happening across the United States, and there were no initial reports of any incidents. That changed at 8:58pm, when Micah Xavier Johnson, known as X in Thompsons story because thats the name he gave one of the officers, opened fire as the otherwise peaceful protest came to a close, specifically targeting members of the Dallas police force. The ambush, which spanned several hours, ended with his death, plus the deaths of five cops; another nine officers and civilians were injured. The power of this story is that for a lot of readers, the difference between what they know now and what they did then is tremendous, Wilson says.

The power of this story is that for a lot of readers, the difference between what they know now and what they did then is tremendous.

Thompson, who is on contract with the News, details the standoff between the Dallas police and X as he fled the scene of the initial firefight and sought cover inside El Centro College a few blocks away. She wanted to know the full story of what happened inside the building: the key players, the decisions made, the gunmans route. Most reporters wrapped up coverage of the shooting in the weeks following the tragedy, but Thompson stuck with it. She started ride-alongs and informal conversations with countless members of the Dallas police in September 2016. Officer by officer, she cultivated a sense of trust with the Dallas police. It took a long time, but she eventually landed her first on-the-record interview in May 2017a full nine months after she started the process. Only one officer asked for a nickname to be used instead of his full name, fearing for his familys safety.

At the same time, Thompson also filed requests for documents, like department emails from the day of the shooting, which helped her fill in gaps of the story. None of the citys audio or video from that night, however, has been publicly releasednot even after Thompsons diligent follow-ups. This is probably one of the best documented [incidents], but none of that is out, she says. So her piece became a wholly oral account, one that was fact-checked and updated up until the day it published. She did find and verify some amateur audio recordings of the police scanner from that night, and she received some audio recordings belonging to Larry Gordon, the officer who negotiated with the gunman. He recorded 26 minutes of audio on his phone from the scene. Gordons experience became the through-line of the whole piece, starting in the midst of negotiations, then circling back to the beginning of the day. At times, Thompson directly pulls dialogue from his audio.

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ICYMI: A bombshell scoop that started with an 11-word, late-night text

Since Thompson relied mostly on firsthand accounts, she modified her approach to fact-checking, under the supervision of her editor, Wilson. She wanted to get it right, and so she would read sections of the piece to the officers, with the caveat that she and her editor maintained final control. With so many moving parts, plus a minimal paper trail, it was the best way to ensure accuracy after dozens of hours of interviews.

To help readers keep track of all the different characters, Thompson and Wilson decided to create mini-profiles, complete with portraits and bio, of the ensemble cast, in Wilsons words. The almost 13,000-word article also contains a number of sections that read like vignettes, for example, Three Amigos, which introduced three of the SWAT members (and also best friends), Danny Canete, Ryan Scott, and Brandon Berie. I think that happens naturally, Wilson says. The action happened in pockets either defined by one person or based on the location of what was happening. The newspapers staff artist, Michael Hogue, also got creative with visual representations of key moments that night. He sketched the gunmans path of terror and the hallway of the shootout, for example, to help orient the reader in time and space.

I knew there was a lot more on the table. I never lost interest in this one.

So far, the reception has been overwhelming. The time people are spending on story is extraordinary, unlike anything weve seen, Wilson says. An average story on the News website gets anywhere between 3,000 and 4,000 views, with some hitting 20,000 on occasionthis piece has 100,000 and counting. For Thompson, who covered the shooting for the Washington Post, the reception is validation. I knew there was a lot more on the table, she says. I never lost interest in this one.

ICYMI: The photographer behind the emotional Dallas shooting image is an internbut hes no novice

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Meg Dalton is a freelance journalist and audio producer based in Connecticut. She's reported and edited for CJR, PBS NewsHour, Energy News Network, Architectural Digest, MediaShift, Hearst Connecticut newspapers, and more. Follow her on Twitter: @megdalts. Find her on Twitter @megdalts.There he goes again.

Peoples lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation. Some are true and some are false. Some are old and some are new. There is no recovery for someone falsely accused  life and career are gone. Is there no such thing any longer as Due Process?  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 10, 2018

Lets skip over the weird punctuation and capitalization (again) and the irony of a president who invokes due process for someone close to him, but ignores it in the case of enemies or perceived enemies, and instead start by looking at the two words that make up due process.

ICYMI: Notable changes in AP style

Due is a chameleon word, capable of being playing different roles. As we wrote in 2011, the prepositional phrase due to has become all-but-standard English in a cause-and-effect relationship like she died due to a heart attack. (Strict grammarians say that due to needs to be an adjective modifying a noun like death instead of a verb like died.) Due is also a noun meaning a debt; an archaic transitive verb meaning invest or endow; an even more archaic transitive verb meaning to be appropriate for; and an adverb or adjective, meaning owed, entitled to, or proper.

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Process can be a noun meaning a continuous action; an intransitive verb meaning to move in a specified group or order; and a transitive verb meaning to perform an action on someone or something to move it from one condition to another. (We process criminals through the justice system, food through a blender, and data through a computer, for example.)

ICYMI: A bombshell scoop that started with an 11-word, late-night text

Put them together, and you have not just a way of moving things from one condition to another, but a requirement that it be done properly, deliberately, and appropriately.

The concept of due process derives from the Magna Carta and appears in two amendments to the Constitution, Cornell Law notes:

The Constitution states only one command twice. The Fifth Amendment says to the federal government that no one shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law. The Fourteenth Amendment, ratified in 1868, uses the same eleven words, called the Due Process Clause, to describe a legal obligation of all states. These words have as their central promise an assurance that all levels of American government must operate within the law (legality) and provide fair procedures.

As Elizabeth Price Foley, a constitutional law professor at Florida International University, said on NPR in December, due process has something akin to three pillars: One is having some sort of notice of the charges that are being levied against you. The second one is having an opportunity to rebut those charges. And then the third one is having some sort of neutral decision maker to hear the charges and make whatever ruling is appropriate.

The #MeToo movement and Trumps tweet have turned a spotlight on due process. Powerful men have lost their jobs and the publics respect over accusations of sexual misconduct. While Foley noted that, strictly speaking, due process applies only when government is involved, over the years courts have expanded the concept of due process to include certain nongovernmental actions, as between an employer and employee. How the mediaand social mediadeals with these accusations does not fall in this legal realm; though how Trump deals with his own staff certainly does.

ICYMI: Merriam-Webster reveals its word of 2017

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Merrill Perlman managed copy desks across the newsroom at the New York Times, where she worked for twenty-five years. Follow her on Twitter at @meperl.Thirty-four arrests in the US

At the beginning of last year, the US Press Freedom Tracker began recording all instances of journalists taken into custody.

Seventy-six percent of the journalists arrested in the US in 2017 were apprehended during just three events: protests in St. Louis, Missouri, following the acquittal of former police officer Jason Stockley; in Washington, DC, during Donald Trumps inauguration; and at the Standing Rock Indian Reservation in North Dakota, in response to the Dakota Access Pipeline.

SOURCE: The US Press Freedom Tracker, a project launched in 2017 that records press freedom violations in the United States. *Arrest data in the US includes short-term arrests and releases throughout the year.

Please click here to view this data in an interactive slideshow.

Note: The interactive slideshow below only works on laptop and desktop.

Jailings on the rise

In 2017, the number of journalists imprisoned worldwide hit a record for the second year in a row, with 262 behind bars.

Fifty-one percent of journalists jailed for their work are detained in Turkey, China, or Egypt.

In 2017, at least 42 journalists were killed worldwide in connection to their work. Iraq and Syria top the list as the deadliest places for journalists. Since 1992, at least 186 journalists have been killed in Iraq, more than any other country.

In the crosshairs

Journalists who cover politics, war, and human rights face the highest risks in the industry. The vast majority who were jailed in the past year worked locally.

*Most journalists cover more than one beat.

On the decline

With fewer journalists working in conflict zones, the number of journalists killed while covering wars in 2017 dropped for the second consecutive year.

More jailed journalists

The number of journalists imprisoned in relation to their work continues to reach historic highs.

Freelancers under fire

Independent journalists account for 75 cases, or 29 percent of all members of the press who were imprisoned in 2017.

Thirty-three percent of the journalists killed in 2017 were independent journalists.

Targeting the news

A selection of journalists who were killed or in prison for their work in 2017.

Miroslava Breach Velducea

Correspondent, La Jornada

Covered crime, politics

Killed in Chihuahua, Mexico | March 23, 2017

An unknown assailant shot Breach Velducea eight times as she was leaving her home in a car with one of her children. The child was not injured.

Mahmoud Abou Zeid (Shawkan)

Freelance photographer

Charged with anti-state | Not sentenced

Imprisoned in Egypt | Aug. 14, 2013

Abou Zeid, known as Shawkan, was detained while covering clashes between Egyptian security forces and supporters of ousted President Mohamed Morsi.

Javier Valdez Cardenas

Investigative reporter and editor, RioDoce

Covered corruption, crime, politics

Killed in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico | May 15, 2017

Shortly after Cardenas left his office, unknown assailants dragged him out of his car and fatally shot him at least 12 times.

Ramon Nse Esono Ebale

Freelance reporter

Not charged | Not sentenced

Imprisoned in Equatorial Guinea | Sept. 16, 2017

Ebale was arrested with two of his friends after leaving a restaurant in Malabo. He was accused of money laundering and counterfeiting. The friends, who are both Spanish nationals, were released.

Abdullah Klc

Columnist/Commentator, Meydan

Charged with anti-state | Not sentenced

Imprisoned in Turkey | July 25, 2016

Kilic was detained as part of a purge of suspected followers of exiled preacher Fethullah Gulen. He was accused of maintaining a terrorist organization.

Shifa Zikri Ibrahim (shifa gardi)

Broadcast reporter, Rudaw TV

Covered war

Killed in Mosul, Iraq | Feb. 25, 2017

Gardi was killed by a roadside bomb while her team was investigating a mass grave, alleged to be where ISIS militants had buried hundreds of civilians.

Nguyen Ngoc Nhu Quynh (Me Nam)

Reporter, Dan Lam Bao

Charged with anti-state | Sentenced to 10+ years

Imprisoned in Vietnam | Oct. 10, 2016

Guynh was arrested while trying to visit an imprisoned political activist. She was accused of being a member of Viet Tan, an outlawed political party.

Daphne Caruana Galizia

Investigative journalist and blogger

Covered corruption, crime, human rights, politics

Killed in Malta | Oct. 16, 2017

Galizias car exploded while she was driving near her home in Bidnija. She had told police prior to her death that she had received death threats in relation to her work on the Panama Papers.

Photos courtesy La Jornada, Freedom For Shawkan Campaign, CPJ/Barbara Nitke, Eloisa Vaello Marco, Jack Forbes, CPJ/Family handout, Matthew Caruana Galizia

SOURCE: Committee to Protect Journalists. *2017 data as of December 1, does not include journalists imprisoned and released throughout the year. There are 20 additional cases of journalists who were killed in 2017, but CPJ is still investigating whether their deaths related to their work.

Please click here to view this data in an interactive slideshow.

Note: The interactive slideshow below only works on laptop and desktop.

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Christie Chisholm, Denise Southwood, and Alexandra Ellerbeck are the authors of this piece. Christie Chisholm is CJR's senior editor. Denise Southwood is CJR's department administrator. Alexandra Ellerbeck is the North America program coordinator at the Committee to Protect Journalists.Nearly six days after The Daily Mail broke allegations of domestic abuse against staff secretary Rob Porter, the White House has failed to provide a consistent timeline of events, leaving reporters to put together the pieces. The West Wings contradictory response once again demonstrated credibility issues that have consistently plagued the administrations attempts to shape the media narrative.

ICYMI: FBI text bombshells demonstrate parallel media worlds

In John Kellys preferred version of the story, the chief of staff learned of allegations against Porter last Tuesday night, and demanded Porters resignation within 40 minutes. But Kellys own public statements from the middle of last week, and the press offices on-the-record comments, provide a different version of the story. Kelly initially told The Daily Mail, Rob Porter is a man of true integrity and honor, and I cant say enough good things about him. He is a friend, a confidante and a trusted professional. I am proud to serve alongside him. On Wednesday afternoon, Press Secretary Sarah Sanders was still defending Porters character from the briefing room, and claiming that no one asked Porter to resign. She said that Porter would remain long enough to ensure a smooth transition, but by Thursday he was gone.

Either the White House spokespeople or the presidents chief of staff is lying, Axioss Jonathan Swan wrote Sunday night. Its a stunning display of incompetence that five days after the initial story broke, they still cant get their stories straight. This is a change for Kelly, who has been portrayed as the adult in the room since he was brought in last summer to establish order in a chaotic West Wing. His response to the revelations about Porter have reportedly led to Kelly offering to resign from the White House. Meanwhile, President Trump weighed in on the broader #MeToo movement, tweeting Saturday that lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation.

FROM THE MAGAZINE: One dangerous year

The Washington Posts Margaret Sullivan writes that the Porter saga is an important moment for journalism in the Trump era. In this case, definitive evidence, in the form of photographs tweeted out by The Intercepts Ryan Grim, overcame denials and support for Porter from the highest levels of the administration. Though, Sullivan notes, evidence, such as the Access Hollywood tape, doesnt always produce results.

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The Porter story, like previous examples of shifting explanations from the White House, raises concerns about how the administration will respond when events demand a definitive, truthful message. Its been said before, but while every administration spins stories to present them in the most positive light, the current occupants of the West Wing appear unable or unwilling to speak with a unified voice. When a major crisis arises, this means that the pressure is on journalists to set the story straight.

Below, more on the White Houses response to Porters resignation and the medias coverage of the story.

Big picture: CNNs Jake Tapper stepped back from the details of the story to remind his viewers about the larger issue. I just wanted to once again note a further erosion of standards for what I thought we had all agreed was not okay, not acceptable, not moral. White supremacist rallies, child molesters, domestic abusers, Tapper said.

CNNs Jake Tapper stepped back from the details of the story to remind his viewers about the larger issue. I just wanted to once again note a further erosion of standards for what I thought we had all agreed was not okay, not acceptable, not moral. White supremacist rallies, child molesters, domestic abusers, Tapper said. Kellys crisis: The New York Timess Peter Baker and Maggie Haberman write that the abuse allegations and inconsistent responses reveal an administration in turmoil.

The New York Timess Peter Baker and Maggie Haberman write that the abuse allegations and inconsistent responses reveal an administration in turmoil. There is no White House: Media critic Jay Rosen has been saying this for a while, and he argues that the Porter story illustrates the way those in the West Wing have rejected the assumption that the administration needs to speak with one voice.

Media critic Jay Rosen has been saying this for a while, and he argues that the Porter story illustrates the way those in the West Wing have rejected the assumption that the administration needs to speak with one voice. An especially blatant defense: On her Saturday Fox News show, Jeanine Pirro ignored the shifting responses, sided completely with Kellys belated explanation, and bizarrely suggested that those searching for someone to blame look at Barack Obama.

Other notable stories

ICYMI: New York magazines David Marchese offers a behind-the-scenes look at that crazy Quincy Jones interview.

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Pete Vernon is a former CJR staff writer. Follow him on Twitter @ByPeteVernon.A proposed law in the state Legislature would require insurance companies to cover air ambulance rides to the mainland for critical procedures not offered in Hawaii.

The measure would take the burden off families that are put in tough situations due to the cost of air ambulance rides, KHON-TV reported Tuesday.

Tammy Tam, wife of the late former Deputy Attorney General Rodney Tam, said she experienced firsthand how current policies complicate care.

Tam said that when her husband fell ill, doctors told them he needed a lung transplant, which couldnt be done in Hawaii. Her insurance covered the transplant, but she had to pay out of pocket for the flight to California on a specialized plane.

Because it is not a provided benefit by the insurance company, the families have to come up with the cash 100 percent paid in full before they will even start to make any arrangements to bring the (medical) teams over, Tam said.

Such a flight costs anywhere from $80,000 to $130,000.

The time it took to coordinate it all and to recognize that this is what he needed just caused other things to fail, Tam said. So he ended up having kidney, liver, and lung failure.

Her husband died July 4. He never got the lung transplant he desperately needed.

The burden on the families that are already extremely distressed, I dont even know how to explain the relief that it would have been if the cost of transportation was not an issue, Tam said.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.A mechanic checks the engine of a U.S. E-8C surveillance plane ahead of take-off at Frankfurt airbase on April 9, 1999.

The Air Force's delayed multibillion-dollar program to replace its aging E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) fleet may finally be dead. The value of the program had been criticized by some service officials, including Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson and the head of Air Combat Command, General Mike Holmes.

The publication Defense News reported Saturday that the Pentagon plans to kill the JSTARS recapitalization program in its fiscal 2019 budget submission, and instead push for "a system-of-systems that will link together existing platforms to track ground targets and do command and control." The publication cited sources familiar with the 2019 budget request, which is expected to be released Monday.

The lucrative JSTARS recap competition, which has essentially been on hold since September, pits teams from three companies against each other  Northrop Grumman (the incumbent), Boeing and Lockheed Martin. The engineering and manufacturing development contract for the next-generation JSTARS is worth about $6.9 billion.

The Air Force didn't respond to a request from CNBC for comment.

In November, Secretary Wilson said a new JSTARS when operational would likely meet "less than one percent" of the requirements for combatant commanders.

Also in November, Holmes  a four-star general  raised questions about the value of a new JSTARS in contested airspace.

"How will we fight and how will we close the kill chain in a highly contested environment in a world we live in now, where, if war kicked off in northern Europe, the NATO soldiers and coalition soldiers would already be underneath that umbrella provided by an integrated air defense?" Holmes said. "Our conclusion is, that none of those systems that were fielded now, including our current JSTARS or a replacement JSTARS, would give us the capability to do that."

Still, Congress has made efforts to retain the JSTARS recap program, including funding it in the fiscal year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) signed by President Donald Trump in December.

The fiscal 2018 NDAA authorized $700 billion in defense spending - including more than $400 million for the JSTARS recap and about $37 million to service the existing legacy fleet.

The Trump administration is expected Monday to propose a $716 billion defense budget for fiscal 2019, or a 7 percent increase from the previous year request. The Pentagon's base budget for fiscal 2019 is expected to be about $597 billion.

The current JSTARS plane is based on a Boeing 707-300 airframe that Northrop modified with radar and electronic equipment to track enemy ground vehicles and collect intelligence and surveillance for airstrikes.

The first E-8C JSTARS were used in 1991 during the first Gulf War under President George H.W. Bush, and have bene used more recently to track Islamic State terrorists in Iraq and Syria. There have been reports of maintenance problems with the aging fleet of 16 planes, including metal fatigue in components.

Defense News noted that each of the companies vying to become prime contractors on the new JSTARS have already "invested millions of dollars of their own funds to hone their designs and were awaiting source selection by the government."

Last month, Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg said during the company's fourth-quarter earnings call that the defense giant's "investment supports the priority we have placed in capturing future franchise programs," and he identified the "JSTARS recapitalization" as one of several "important opportunities."

Even so, the Pentagon may opt to go with a drone-based surveillance system that also combines additional capabilities from satellite systems. Regardless, unmanned aircraft could be potentially vulnerable to enemy defenses.

Read the full story from Defense News here.With demand for its redesigned full-size SUVs surging, Ford Motor is expanding production of the Expedition and Lincoln Navigator.

The automaker will be increasing production of the two SUVs by approximately 25 percent. Both models are manufactured at Ford's truck plant in Louisville, Kentucky.

"The response from our customers regarding our new full-size SUVs has been exceptional," said Joe Hinrichs, Ford's president of global operations. In January, Navigator sales surged 88.6 percent according to the research firm AutoData.

In particular, Ford is finding very strong demand for the most expensive versions of both vehicles. The average transaction price for the Lincoln Navigator jumped by $21,000 in January, while the average price for a new Ford Expedition was up $7,800, according to the automaker.

Earlier this month, Mark LaNeve, Ford's vice president for U.S. marketing, sales, and service, said the automaker could not make the Lincoln Navigator fast enough. Ford says the average Navigator was in Lincoln showrooms an average of just seven days last month, far shorter than the industry average.The largest single piece of the White House plan is a proposed $100 billion that would be made available to states and municipalities in the form of matching funds for infrastructure projects, according to White House officials who spoke to the press on background over the weekend. Federal funding, however, would be capped at 20 percent of the overall cost of any given project, leaving cities and states responsible for raising the other 80 percent.

The plan represents Trump's opening salvo in what is already shaping up to be a long and complex debate in Congress over how best to shore up the nation's infrastructure.

The White House unveiled its long-awaited infrastructure plan on Monday, fulfilling a signature campaign promise of President Donald Trump. The proposal includes $200 billion in federal infrastructure spending over a decade, which would be paid for through cuts elsewhere in the budget.

Officials said the plan is designed to stimulate $1.5 trillion in new infrastructure investment, but they did not weigh in on how states and cities would raise the other eighty percent of the funds for new projects.

The proposal also includes $50 billion for rural infrastructure projects, which would be distributed to states in the form of block grants. Twenty billion would also be set aside to finance cutting-edge projects deemed too risky to qualify for traditional funding, but which have the potential to be transformative if they succeed. Another $20 billion would go to expanding current loan programs for public-private partnerships.

According to the White House, one particular financing program, known as TIFIA, leverages each dollar of federal money into an average of $40 from other sources. So by this rationale, an additional $20 billion for TIFIA financing programs would be expected to produce $800 billion in new infrastructure investment.

A second major piece of the plan involves reforms to the federal permitting process, aimed at cutting the amount of time it takes for infrastructure projects to gain approval. Under the White House plan, current environmental permitting rules would be "streamlined" -- to use the administration's term -- to accommodate a wide range of infrastructure projects.

Details of the plan have been circulating in Washington for weeks, and Democrats in Congress have already released an alternative infrastructure plan that calls for $1 trillion in federal spending, or five times what the Trump administration is proposing.

Over the weekend, White House officials emphasized that many of the objectives in Trump's plan enjoy wide bipartisan support -- the only sticking point is how to achieve them. Still, they acknowledged that at least 10 different committees in Congress will have jurisdiction over one or more pieces of the proposal, all but guaranteeing a lengthy legislative process.

Trump is scheduled to host both Democratic and Republican leaders at the White House on Wednesday to discuss the infrastructure proposal.Despite how that turned out, the Paris accord can go on to succeed even without the U.S., experts told CNBC. That's because of the intrinsic difference between the two climate treaties and the growing concerns about the threat of climate change.

While countries remained in the Kyoto Protocol without the U.S., commitment to the treaty began wavering and Canada withdrew in 2011, saving the country $14 billion in penalties in the process. Without the two largest carbon dioxide emitters  the U.S. and China  in the treaty, any progress made by the remaining countries was less significant on a global scale.

The Kyoto Protocol was an international framework that aimed to set internationally binding emissions reduction targets. The U.S. Senate refused to ratify the treaty, however, and the country formally withdrew in 2001.

But that might be where the similarities end.

President Donald Trump's decision last year to withdraw from the Paris climate accord is reminiscent of the events that led to the downfall of its predecessor, the Kyoto Protocol.

The Eiffel Tower in the colors of the new summit on the climate organized by French President Emmanuel Macron on December 12, 2017.

"The Paris accord was designed to address the flaws of the Kyoto Protocol," explained Chris Field, the director of Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment.

Developed with a loose-fitting framework, the accord allows individual countries to independently evolve and adjust their climatic strategies. But, unlike the Kyoto Protocol, there are no legally binding terms in the Paris agreement.

"Almost every country had agreed to the creation of another climate agreement after the Kyoto Protocol failed, and the equal input in the agreement provides a sense of fairness," Field said.

The difference, according to the Stanford professor, is the willingness of the countries to participate in the Paris accord  which is a wholly voluntary agreement. "The signatories in the agreement are there voluntarily, and this shows that they are committed in fighting climate change, as opposed to the Kyoto Protocol," Field said.

The director of the World Resources Institute's International Climate Initiative, David Waskow, agreed that commitment to the Paris accord remains high.

"It's been very clear that other countries are extremely committed to the accord," Waskow said. "Developed countries have repeatedly stated their commitment to the agreement even after President Trump's announcement, as have major developing countries such as China and India."

Moreover, the internal debate in the U.S. will also be important to the success of the Paris accord, Field said.

"Although the national government has officially withdrawn from the agreement, individual states and major companies in America can still act independently to help achieve the initial goals that the U.S. has set," Field said.

Many of America's biggest companies, such as Apple and Exxon Mobil, have publicly stated their support for the U.S. to remain in the treaty.

At least 20 states have also pledged to continue their support for the accord and to uphold climatic strategies that will keep them on track to meet the Paris goals.

Waskow also said he believes Trump is missing out on the economic benefits that climate action can bring.

"As countries, along with some American businesses and states, have stated their strong support for the vision of the Paris accord, Trump has become a climate loner," Waskow said. "The Trump vision is one that would result in missing the enormous economic boon from renewable energy and sustainable transportation."

For his part, the U.S. president cited what he characterized as "draconian financial and economic burdens the agreement imposes" in a White House statement accompanying his decision to formally withdraw the U.S. from the non-binding and penalty-free agreement.

In the statement, Trump argued that the accord was unfair on the U.S., would lead to a loss of millions of jobs, and cost the economy approximately $3 trillion in GDP. The president also said positive effects of the Paris agreement would be minimal:Artificial intelligence (AI) tools will create "superhuman workers" who will be able to accomplish more alongside the new technology, a co-founder of Google's secret Google X laboratory told CNBC on Monday.

Sebastian Thrun left the search engine giant in 2014, and is now the chairman of online education firm Udacity and chief executive of Kitty Hawk, a flying car company backed by Alphabet CEO Larry Page.

Speaking at the World Government Summit in Dubai, Thrun talked up the potential of AI to free people up to do more creative jobs.

"AI is a tool and what AI can do really, really well is getting rid of repetitive work," he said. "So, if you are a worker, say a medical doctor or a lawyer who spends day in and day out doing the same thing, then having AI look over your shoulder and learn those skills from you, will make you a superhuman, a more powerful person.

"Now, that means that some jobs will go away, very repetitive work, of course. But it will be replaced by created work, so we have to move from a repetitive working society into a creative society where we invent new things."

He gave examples of AI being used in the medical sphere or even as personal assistants to people.

While Thrun said that people will find new jobs as old ones are displaced by technology, other commentators are not so optimistic. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, for example, thinks robots will do everything better than humans, and has even suggested there is a "pretty good chance" that a universal basic income will need to be introduced.

Other technologists have been talking about how AI should be developed. Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff told CNBC last year that evolving technologies should develop at a steady enough pace to adequately replace the jobs they eliminate.Airbus completed its first flight demonstration of an air vehicle which will eventually deliver parcels to stations around a university campus in Singapore.

Unmanned drones will begin flying between parcel stations on campus by the middle of the year. The drones will land on roofs of stations, where a robotic arm will retrieve a package and place it in an individual locker. Customers can then pick up their package at any hour from the lockers.

CNBC attended the initial flight demonstration at the National University of Singapore campus where the drone appeared quite large and carried a packaged shirt inside.

The drone can carry between 2 to 4 kilograms, under 9 pounds. The machine weighs approximately 25 kilograms, which is about 55 pounds.

A representative from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore said the eventual plan is to roll out the drone parcel delivery system across the city-state, so long as it's done in phases.

Airbus is joining the race to dominate the highways of the sky against competition from tech giants Google and Amazon.A portion of President Donald Trump's massive infrastructure proposal could help to develop America's rural states such as Alaska, Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan told CNBC on Monday.

Trump's infrastructure proposal, set to be unveiled Monday, includes $50 billion for rural infrastructure projects, which would be distributed to states in the form of block grants.

"Certain states that don't have big populations can't always have the toll roads," Sullivan, who sits on the Senate's Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, told CNBC's "Squawk Box." Tolls typically help recoup the cost of construction and maintenance.

"There's going to be a set aside of about 25 percent in this proposal for rural states," the Alaska senator added.

Sullivan said there's an opportunity for a bipartisan-supported infrastructure plan that includes reform of the permitting process. He has introduced a bill that would include setting a time limit on federal permit reviews. He said this will give the private sector incentives to invest.

Sullivan characterized the United States' current permitting system as "broken."

"Every mayor, every governor, sees these problems," Sullivan said. He added he is in support of "some" federal infrastructure spending but no more than $200 billion. Trump plans on using $200 billion in federal money over 10 years.

"The White House has been working this on the Senate and the Hill for months," Sullivan said. "Hopefully, we're going to see a good reaction when these principles are announced by the White House today."

Since his campaign, Trump has stated the U.S. needs a big boost infrastructure spending.

In a tweet Monday, he called for infrastructure investments.

@realDonaldTrump: This will be a big week for Infrastructure. After so stupidly spending $7 trillion in the Middle East, it is now time to start investing in OUR Country!Billionaire political activist and ex-hedge fund manager Tom Steyer on Monday blasted President Donald Trump's vision for overhauling the nation's aging infrastructure.

Steyer, the Democratic megadonor behind the "Need to Impeach" Trump effort, said the $200 billion in federal infrastructure spending that's being talked about by the White House won't create jobs or boost the economy.

"Making an investment in of itself isn't a good thing," Steyer told CNBC's "Squawk Alley." "What's a good thing is a smart investment, things that actually move the country forward."

Earlier Monday, the White House unveiled Trump's long-awaited infrastructure plan that includes $200 billion in federal funding over a decade to incentivize new projects in hopes of stimulating $1.5 trillion in new investment.

Steyer said Trump's plan could move the U.S. backward. The billionaire, who said he had not read the current infrastructure bill in full, was particularly critical of a provision in the White House plan that would streamline the environmental permitting process to accommodate a wide range of infrastructure projects.

"Getting rid of environmental protections that ensure people's health and longevity. Is that a good investment?" he asked. "That doesn't sound like a good investment to me." Instead, Steyer said he would like to see a bipartisan infrastructure bill that massively upgrades the nation's power grid as well as improves broadband internet access.

The infrastructure bill "has to be sustainable," he said. "We've got to build a clean infrastructure that will let this country compete successfully for decades to come and be the source of innovation and job creation that we've always been."

Steyer, founder and president of NextGen America, launched a digital petition in October calling for Trump's impeachment. It's been signed by nearly 4 million people, according to the petition website.

Last month, Steyer also said he would push $30 million into an effort to boost millennial voter turnout in this year's midterm elections to help Democrats take over the House.BP Chief Executive Bob Dudley said Monday that he was "very comfortable" with oil prices at their current levels.

"I think it got over $70, I think $72 a few weeks ago, that felt very high to me," Dudley told CNBC in an interview at the Egypt Petroleum Show in Cairo. "We are planning on now to the end of the decade (a price) between $50 and $65 a barrel."

He added: "I think we're in a range where the shales will be a shock absorber on the upside and the downside. Very comfortable where oil prices are as we project out, not just this year but the years ahead."Broadcom CEO Hock Tan, days ahead of talks with Qualcomm for a $121 billion takover, insists he's a "frugal guy."

The rival chipmakers are scheduled to sit down Wednesday to negotiate Broadcom's latest buyout bid of $82 per share, even though Qualcomm on Thursday rejected the increased bid.

Broadcom has offered Qualcomm $8 billion in break-up fees, should the deal fail to gain regulatory approval.

"You know, I'm kind of a frugal guy. You think I would sign up to pay $8 billion if there's even a second thought?" Tan asked during an interview Monday on CNBC's "Squawk on the Street."

Broadcom has said its latest offer is its "best and final."Speculative cryptocurrency investors are negatively impacting on experimentation with the nascent technology, an executive at Singapore's central bank said Monday.

Sopnendu Mohanty, chief fintech officer of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), told CNBC that he did not want speculative investing in the digital currency space to "destroy the experimental value of cryptocurrency."

MAS is currently working on its own blockchain, or distributed ledger technology, project called "Project Ubin," and expects to complete a trial with a digital version of the Singapore dollar this year. Blockchain, the technology that underpins virtual currencies, maintains a continually growing record of transactions across a decentralized network.

Voicing his concerns about speculators in the market, Mohanty said: "That's a key part because we are going to continue to experiment on this fabulous technology and find the use case, hopefully, in the long run.Real harm is being done by out-of control trading.

Market volatility is an outrage for Americans who have trillions of their dollars in 401(k) and other retirement and savings plans.

Market volatility is an outrage for companies that hope someday to fund themselves with new equity.

Market volatility is an outrage for the economy that expects to use free-market capitalism to spur growth.

The fact that trading in the United States equity markets has been captured by out-of-control technological investment systems is a reneging on a key implicit promise. That promise is that the free market trading systems will fairly represent the economic values in the United States. This market volatility is a clear indication that the study and analysis of the economy, the financial system, and companies is an ancient system no longer relevant in today's technologically advanced markets. It is a complete denial of the "Prudent Man Rule."Cryptocurrencies are "highly risky" assets and are unsuitable as investments, three European Union (EU) regulators warned Monday.

The European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) for securities, banking and insurance and pensions said in a joint statement that they were "concerned" about an increasing number of people buying virtual currencies without being aware of the risks involved.

"The ESAs warn consumers that VCs (virtual currencies) are highly risky and unregulated products and are unsuitable as investment, savings or retirement planning products," the regulatory agencies said.

The group of watchdogs said that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are volatile and show "clear signs of a pricing bubble." It added that people investing in them should be conscious of the high risk that they could "lose a large amount, or even all, of the money invested."

As virtual currencies and exchanges used to trade them are not regulated under EU law, the regulators warned that cryptocurrency investors are not protected in the event of an exchange going out of business or a cyber-attack. Last month, cryptocurrency lending and exchange firm Bitconnect said it was shutting down its platform after it received cease-and-desist letters from securities divisions in Texas and North Carolina.

The EU joins a number of government authorities in raising concern over cryptocurrencies.

South Korea, for instance, introduced measures to tackle speculation in the sector, banning the use of anonymous bank accounts in cryptocurrency trading. And Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said recently that his government will take measures to "eliminate" the use of cryptocurrencies in "illegitimate activities or as part of the payment system."European equities finished Monday's session on an upbeat note as global markets bounced back after posting their worst week in years.

The pan-European STOXX 600 index closed up 1.17 percent provisionally, off session highs, while all major sectors posted solid gains. The U.K.'s FTSE 100 rose 1.19 percent by the close, while France's CAC 40 jumped 1.2 percent and Germany's DAX 1.45 percent. In peripheral markets, the only major index that fell into the red by the close was the Athens Stock Exchange. Stocks received a boost after markets in the States rallied during their morning trade.

TDC in the spotlight, commodities soar

Chemicals was one of the top performing sectors Monday, closing up 1.56 percent  after several rating upgrades boosted sector sentiment. Polymer solutions firm Victrex rose over 3 percent, following an upgrade from Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Umicore jumped over 6 percent after Credit Suisse and Citigroup raised their price target on the stock. Elsewhere, Delivery Hero popped 4.69 percent, following a target price increase from J.P. Morgan. LVMH rose 3 percent, after Societe Generale upgraded its rating to "buy" from "hold." Shares of Danish operator TDC soared 13.4 percent, making it the STOXX 600's top performer, after confirming that a consortium  made up of three Danish pension funds and Macquarie Infrastructure & Real Assets (MIRA)  had decided to initiate a takeover offer. TDC's chairman stated Monday that after reviewing their options, its board of directors recommended shareholders accept the offer. Basic resources and energy stocks also jumped, on the back of a strong uptick in commodity prices, as global markets showed signs of steadying. London-listed miners, including Anglo American, BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto, rose 2 percent each or more, as some metal prices ticked higher.

On the other hand, the French firm Ses dropped to the bottom of the index, off 11.18 percent, after announcing management changes. On the earnings front, Heineken pared some of its losses, but closed down 0.88 percent, after the brewer lowered its margin growth target for 2018. In other corporate news, Apollo has joined forces with a Dutch pension fund to buy part of Akzo Nobel's business, the Financial Times reported. The latter was up almost 2 percent at the market close.

Global ReboundJaap Arriens | NurPhoto via Getty Images

If you're a financial advisor, chances are you're not using blockchain technology and not even sure how to define it. But you could be missing one of the biggest developments poised to disrupt the entire financial services industry, according to some financial experts. Blockchain technology was developed to serve as the backbone for the bitcoin cryptocurrency. But the blockchain is rapidly gaining popularity as people realize its value as a mechanism for executing transactions without the oversight of a third party or central bank, said Magdalena Ramada, senior economist at Willis Towers Watson, in a presentation at the Technology Tools for Today Advisor Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The blockchain is defined as a digital distributed ledger, or registry of information, according to Ramada. The information in the ledger has to be confirmed and accepted in order to enter the blockchain, much like the pages of a book. Once the information is there, it is incorruptible and unchangeable, Ramada said. "Blockchain is a sociological innovation," Ramada said. "It is a piece of technology, but it enables us to transfer and transact value on the internet and to organize networks in a way that we were not able to before." As a result, experts predict blockchain technology will have a profound impact on the financial services industry, which focuses on transferring assets and value in a safe and secure way.

The blockchain effect

Financial advisor Ric Edelman, founder and executive chairman of Edelman Financial Services, thinks advisors who are not up to speed on the blockchain will get left behind. "Do you know what the blockchain is? Can you explain it clearly and concisely to an individual?" Edelman asked the audience at the conference. "Because if you can't, you're not much better off than the client you're trying to provide advice to." Edelman recalled that when he asked one technologist to define the blockchain, he replied, "Fire. The wheel. The internet. Blockchain." And because blockchain cuts out the middleman in transactions, it will wipe out tens of millions of jobs, Edelman predicted. "Anyone who stands between the buyer and seller is gone, so stockbrokers are gone, mortgage brokers are gone, ticket sellers are gone," Edelman said. "Anybody who serves as that middleman is obsolete due to the blockchain." That transformation is already starting to take place. Vanguard has already moved $2 trillion in assets onto the blockchain, according to Edelman. The results will lead to profound changes to commerce, including dramatically reduced expenses and increased speed and safety, he said.

Still some significant kinks

But the blockchain technology still has some significant kinks to work out, according to technology experts in the financial advisory industry. Aaron Klein, CEO of Riskalyze, a technology company that helps advisors assess clients' risk tolerance, said he is "long-term optimistic, short-term pessimistic on blockchain." "Here is the challenge with blockchain today: It is handling 0.6 percent of the transactions that Visa's credit card network is handling, and yet it's getting slower by the minute," Klein said. "We're up to seven-minute transaction clearing times for bitcoin." Those delays come as the growth of the blockchain makes it so the decryption technology moves slower. Those transaction times are untenable for an industry that places a high value on speed, he said. "It's an interesting scaling problem. I feel confident that they will engineer some kind of solution to it," Klein said. "At this point of the evolution of blockchain, the middleman is looking very good." Steve Durko, chief technology officer at TradePMR, a provider of brokerage and custody services for investment advisors, agreed. "We're not using blockchain right now. We're watching it very closely," Durko said. "We're looking for opportunities to use it, but I need it to be a real benefit." James Dowd, managing director at North Capital, a financial technology firm and broker-dealer, said his firm has already found that opportunity and started implementing it seven months ago. North Capital is using blockchain technology for the offering transaction, settlement, custody and clearing of exempt securities, which are not offered on the public markets.

I think it's going to be an incredibly disruptive force in financial services. We see immediate applications that will save people time and money and will be more secure and controlled. James Dowd managing director at financial technology firm North CapitalFlying cars could be in the air within five years, the chief executive of Kitty Hawk, a company backed by Alphabet CEO Larry Page, told CNBC on Monday.

Sebastian Thrun added that an announcement is due in March about the next stages of the project.

Thrun was one of the founders of Google X, the search giant's moonshot lab, and also a pioneer of the company's driverless car project. He is now the chairman of an online education firm called Udacity and the CEO of flying car firm Kitty Hawk.

Kitty Hawk unveiled a demonstration video of its flying car in 2017. Thrun said Monday that the company is gearing up for an announcement next month.

When asked when the next version of the flying car will be ready, he said Kitty Hawk is "very very close."

"We are going to have a big announcement coming forward in March," Thrun told CNBC in an interview on Monday at the World Government Summit in Dubai.

"The reality is if you look at transportation as a whole, most of it stays on the ground. And the ground is very capacity limited when you go in the air, the air is mostly free. And you are now at a point where we can make air-based transportation, like daily transpiration, safer, faster and also more cheaper actually, environmentally friendly, than on the ground."

Thrun described a situation in which people are able to hail flying cars via a smartphone app. He added that it's unlikely people will actually own a vehicle, describing ownership as "antiquated," and that people will share flying cars, much like Uber and Lyft with ground vehicles.

Thrun said the project is in the early stages at the moment, but given the rapid pace of technological development, it wouldn't be unreasonable to think that flying cars could be in the air in five years.

"We are at the science phase," he said. "However, given that society moves really fast, I wouldn't see why within five years' time we wouldn't be able to take a city like Dubai and really give them (a) massive system for people to use flying cars every day."U.S. defense contractor General Dynamics said on Monday it would buy smaller rival CSRA for about $6.8 billion to expand its information technology unit, which provides services to the U.S. Department of Defense.

General Dynamics's $40.75-per-share cash offer represents a premium of 32 percent to CSRA stock's closing price on Friday.

CSRA's shares jumped 31.4 percent to $40.50 in premarket trading on Monday.

"CSRA has been trading at a slight discount to the other services companies in the government services sector. This combined with the fact that General Dynamics own services business has a similar profit margin and business lines made it a more attractive purchase for General Dynamics," a person familiar with the deal told Reuters.

The move comes as revenue at General Dynamics disappointed investors in the previous two quarters due to the U.S. administration's lack of appointees at the Pentagon and a failure by Congress to pass a federal budget.

President Donald Trump's budget request for the Pentagon is set to be announced on Monday. Trump would be seeking to make good on his promise to bolster military spending.

General Dynamics, which also makes tanks and U.S. Navy ships, said the deal is valued at $9.6 billion, including $2.8 billion in CSRA debt.

CSRA generated about 94 percent of its revenue in the fiscal year ended March 2017 from sales to the U.S. government either as a prime contractor or subcontractor, according to the company's last annual regulatory filing in May.

CSRA provides IT, mission, and operations-related services to the Department of Defense, the intelligence community and homeland security.

The deal folds CSRA into General Dynamics' information systems and technology business, which is its largest unit, and also provides combat software and combat-ready computing equipment.

General Dynamics reported sales of $31.35 billion in the year ended Dec. 31, while CSRA had revenue of $4.99 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31.

General Dynamics said it expects the deal to add to its earnings per share and free cash flow per share in 2019 and generate annual pre-tax cost savings of about 2 percent of the combined company's revenue by 2020.

Falls Church, Virginia-based General Dynamics expects to fund the deal through available cash and new debt financing.

Stone Key Group is General Dynamics' exclusive financial adviser, while Evercore and Macquarie Capital advised CSRA.Billionaire investor George Soros is defending his right to donate hundreds of thousands of pounds to a pro-European Union campaign aimed at stopping the U.K. leaving the political and economic bloc.

The tycoon had been heavily criticized after it was revealed that, through one of his foundations, he had donated a sizable amount of funds to the Best for Britain campaign, which advocates stopping Brexit and keeping the U.K. in the EU.

In response, Soros hit back at what he described as "toxic, personal criticism" and dismissed accusations that his actions were "undermining democracy."

Writing in the Mail on Sunday newspaper, he said: "I consider Brexit a tragic mistake.  Brexit is a lose-lose proposition both for Britain and for Europe. Politically, Europe without Britain will be weakened in its ability to defend and promote democratic values."Before you make that transition, check out this list of what you may lose.

The new tax code could accelerate the trend of workers shifting from traditional employment to independent contractor status.

Uber driver Dean Johnson poses for a portrait while working outside South Station in Boston on April 22, 2016. Craig F. Walker | The Boston Globe | Getty Images

The share of "nontraditional workers" in our labor force  such as independent contractors and freelancers  has been growing faster than any other type of worker. The new tax code is likely to accelerate this trend, thanks to the big tax break it offers to businesses run by individuals. Independent contractors (or sole proprietors) can now write off 20 percent of their business income in many cases. "This is putting grease on that slide," said David Weil, former administrator of the Labor Department's Wage and Hour Division under President Barack Obama and author of "The Fissured Workplace."

Ceilidh Gao, an attorney at the National Employment Law Center, said she expects employers to try to advertise the new tax benefits of being an independent contractor to potential or current employees. "It saves employers money," Gao said. "They're able to shift costs on to the worker." Indeed, benefits account for more than 30 percent of an employee's cost to his or her employer, according to the Labor Department. These benefits generally are not offered to independent contractors. For some people, the conversion from employee to independent contractor could be worthwhile, particularly for those in a high tax bracket, said Howard Gleckman, a senior fellow with the Tax Policy Center. Then there are people who have no choice but to be an independent contractor. In addition, baked into the new code is yet another incentive for employees to, well, not be employees: Certain employee deductions are gone, while business write-offs remain. Of course, many people are not offered some benefits, despite being an employee. Plus, a growing number of individuals prefer the freedom and flexibility that comes with being self-employed. "The 9-to-5 world was created in the times when you served a company. It used to be that people said 'I'm so proud that I work for,' fill in the blank," said Miguel Centeno of Shared Economy CPA, which specializes in taxpayers who are independent contractors. "Now there's more of a focus on how we work as individuals."

In any case, employees would be wise to pause before they surrender their employee status in pursuit of the new tax break, Weil said. "My concern is that they don't know what they're losing," he said. "It's really a sweeping set of safety-net and discrimination protections." Here's a list of some of those things you'd lose (and might have to pay for yourself) as an independent contractor.

Health insurance

"If you're now a sole proprietor, you're no longer going to get employer-sponsored health insurance," Gleckman said. On average, employees pay 18 percent of their health insurance premiums, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. The average annual premium for single health insurance in 2017 was $6,690, they found, with the worker paying $1,213. An independent contractor would have to pick up that additional $5,477 a year  although the cost of those premiums may be deductible.

Social Security and Medicare tax

Employers pay half of their workers' self-employment taxes, which is about 15 percent of your income, to cover Social Security and Medicare. An independent contractor would need to bear the full burden of that tax, therefore paying around 7 percent more in taxes than regular employees. (You can deduct that employer-equivalent portion at tax time.) Here's one way to think about it: That 20 percent deduction in the tax code could be worth as little as 12.5 percent if you were shedding your employee label to qualify as an independent contractor. "It's a big hit," said Centeno.

Sick and vacation days

A great share of full-time employees get paid vacation at about 10 to 14 days per year, and more than 70 percent are offered a fixed number of paid sick days a year. In addition, several companies and states have started offering paid family leave.

Fewer workers are going to have secure and stable jobs. Kate Bronfenbrenner director of labor education research, Cornell University

That trifecta represents more protections unavailable to independent contractors. "You don't work, you don't get paid," Gleckman said.

Unemployment insurance

Unemployment insurance offers workers who've lost their job "through no fault of their own" compensation for a set period. Although the number of people filing for unemployment is the lowest it's been since the 1970s, around 224,500 people a week are still doing so. It's independent contractors who often most need this security, Gleckman said  but they don't qualify. "It's pretty easy to get rid of an independent contractor," he said. "Much easier than an employee."

Workers compensation

These laws protect people who are injured while they're working. "You lose a limb  you get money from that limb," said Kate Bronfenbrenner, director of labor education research at Cornell University. "If you lose your life and it's work-related, then your family gets money." People who are self-employed don't qualify, although they can buy their own workers compensation insurance on the private market or through their state (some states require that you buy it through the state government). Rates are around $1.32 per $100 per pay period.

Fair Labor Standards Act

This law establishes that employees are guaranteed a minimum wage and overtime pay. That protection doesn't extend to independent contractors. One government expert found that a construction worker made around $11,000 a year after taxes as an independent contractor. But that same worker made close to $22,000 after taxes while classified as an employee. Before people become self-employed, Centeno said, they must make sure their business will bring in enough money. "Knowing what your net profit is after taxes and comparing that to your lifestyle is going to be critical," he said.

Anti-discrimination protections (including sexual harassment)

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission prohibits an employer to discriminate against an employee  through firing, assignments pay and more  based on a worker's gender, disability, religion or for many other reasons. Independent contractors often have no way to prove or fight against their discrimination, Bronfenbrenner said. The current climate around sexual harassment, she added, underscores the need for these protections. "It is even more important women have the protection at this time when they're feeling the courage to come forward," she said.

... And moreGoogle has finally started allowing other companies to rent its artificial intelligence-tailored chips in the cloud.

The company announced in a blog post on Monday that tensor processing units are available in "limited quantities" for a select set of customers looking to run machine learning models on the Google Cloud Platform.

Google unveiled its stealthy TPU project in 2016 and followed up with the second generation of chips at its annual developers' conference last May. The update allowed Google to get into the more sophisticated training phase of deep learning.

Usage is billed by the second and costs $6.50 per Cloud TPU per hour.

The TPUs are designed specifically for AI and machine learning workloads and provide two main benefits to Google.

First, by using its own silicon, Google has a cheaper, more efficient alternative to relying on chipmakers like Nvidia and Intel for its core computing infrastructure. Owning its own hardware enables Google to experiment faster.

The new TPUs also allow parent company Alphabet to add a revenue stream to the Google Cloud Platform. GCP and Google's collection of business apps called GSuite now generate more than $1 billion a quarter.

Google is currently allowing companies to rent individual TPU boards but later this year will let them connect multiple boards into supercomputer networks called TPU pods.Carl Icahn speaking at Delivering Alpha in New York on Sept. 13, 2016.

Xerox shareholders Carl Icahn and Darwin Deason strongly criticized the company's plan to sell itself to Japan's Fujifilm, saying the transaction "dramatically undervalues Xerox and disproportionately favors Fuji."

"We urge you our fellow shareholders do not let Fuji steal this company from us," Icahn and Deason said in an open letter.

Icahn and Deason respectively the No. 1 and No. 3 Xerox shareholders with a combined stake of over 15 percent in January pushed the company to explore strategic options.

On Jan. 31, Fujifilm said it was set to take over Xerox in a $6.1 billion deal and combine it into their existing joint venture, Fuji Xerox.

Xerox could not immediately be reached for comment.President Donald Trump greets Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., right, before Trump addressed a luncheon at the House and Senate Republican retreat at The Greenbrier resort in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va., on February 1, 2018.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell supports a GOP immigration plan that aims to meet the demands set out by President Donald Trump, the Kentucky Republican said Monday.

While McConnell thinks the measure has the best chance to get signed into law, it is unclear whether any Democrats will support it and give it enough backing to pass the Senate. The proposal would enshrine legal protections for 1.8 million young immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children but restrict legal immigration  a concession the minority party in Congress opposes.

McConnell called the measure a "fair compromise" which includes a "compassionate resolution" for the immigrants protected by or eligible for the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Trump decided to end the program in September, with a phase-out date of March 5.

This week, the Senate will have an open debate on immigration legislation, and the Republican proposal is one of many lawmakers are expected to vote on.

"It's our best chance for producing a solution that can actually resolve these matters.  It has my support," McConnell said Monday on the Senate floor.

Trump has proposed a plan to protect the 1.8 million immigrants and create an eventual path to citizenship. He also seeks increased funding for border security, limits on family sponsorship for immigration to the U.S. and an end to the diversity visa "lottery" system.

The GOP proposal from several senators including Majority Whip John Cornyn of Texas and Chuck Grassley of Iowa seeks to mirror the terms set out by Trump.

Shortly after McConnell spoke, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer showed little enthusiasm for the plan.

"Now is not the time nor the place to reform the entire legal immigration system. Rather, this is the moment for a narrow bill," the New York Democrat said.

A proposal from Sens. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and Dick Durbin, D-Ill., would enshrine protections for the young immigrants and boost border security funding. But it would not include the curbs on legal immigration Trump seeks.

However, the president flatly rejected the proposal last month in the lead up to a government shutdown that was partly due to the parties' inability to reach an immigration deal.

Democrats aim not to alienate an energized liberal base, which wants a quick resolution to DACA protections and opposes Trump's pledges to crack down on immigration. Many House Democrats, and some of the party's lawmakers in the Senate, held out on supporting a massive bipartisan budget deal last week because of immigration.

Trump, meanwhile, does not want to anger his supporters who cheered his push to limit immigration. Conservative House Republicans will also be reluctant to back a bill that does not include restrictions on legal immigration.Russia has pledged not to abandon a deal with OPEC to keep a lid on oil supplies, even as crude prices rise, OPEC Secretary General Mohammed Barkindo said on Monday.

A stronger-than-anticipated rally has raised concerns that Russian oil giants will seek an exit from OPEC's agreement with Moscow and other producers to limit their output. Oil prices have rebounded nearly 60 percent since June, with rising to three-year highs above $71 a barrel, prior to a pullback last week that wiped out its gains for 2018.

Those worries have been compounded by rising U.S. crude exports that threaten to loosen Russia and Saudi Arabia's grip on key overseas markets at a time of strong economic growth and rising demand for petroleum products.

However, Barkindo says President Vladimir Putin and Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak have assured him Russia won't blink.

"I have heard and received assurances both from Mr. Alexander Novak and President Putin that they will remain committed to the OPEC, non-OPEC collaboration and the Declaration of Cooperation," he told CNBC on the sidelines of the Egypt Petroleum Show in Cairo.

"They have proved this beyond any reasonable doubt through their high level of conformity to their supply adjustment, so I think there's no concern here," he said. "We are all in the same boat."OPEC said Monday it expects demand for oil to grow faster than it originally expected in 2018, but the organization also sees supplies from beyond the producer group surging this year, driven by rising U.S. output.

A monthly report also showed OPEC's production was little changed in January as the group continues to limit its output for a second year in order to balance an oversupplied market. However, key members like Iraq raised their output in January.

The 14-member cartel said it now sees non-OPEC production growing by 1.4 million barrels per day, up 250,000 bpd from its estimate in its last monthly report. It expects nations outside OPEC to pump a total of 59.26 million bpd this year, 320,000 bpd higher than its last forecast.

The United States accounts for more than half of that upward revision. OPEC raised its 2018 U.S. supply growth forecast by 150,000 barrels per day.

Recent U.S. government data showed that American drillers began pumping more than 10 million barrels of crude oil daily in November, more than top OPEC producer Saudi Arabia.

"According to the most recent assessment, the steady oil price recovery since summer 2017 and renewed interest in growth opportunities has led to oil majors catching up in terms of exploration activity this year, both in the shale industry and offshore deep water," OPEC said.Fake clicks on online advertising remains a "big concern" for the advertising industry, Maurice Levy, the chairman of Publicis Groupe, told CNBC on Monday.

The French company is one of the world's largest advertising firms. Speaking at the World Government Summit in Dubai, Levy discussed what needs to be done to combat robots clicking on advertising.

"The fact that there are still some robots that are clicking instead of some individuals it's a big concern because it's a waste of money and the money of our clients," he said. "So it's extremely important that we can trace who is opening a file, who is clicking and it's not a computer or a robot who is doing that job.

"So as long as we have that situation, we have a suspicion on the quality of the advertising on programmatic and we need to really address that issue in order that there is no waste."

Programmatic advertising is an automated way of buying and selling ads then placing them next to content that appears relevant.

Technology giants have been criticized in the past for not dealing with these issues. Last year, a study claimed that as many as 48 million Twitter accounts were actually bots. Another study alleged that Facebook inflated the number of people that its ads reach.

Levy said, however, that these platforms were taking the fight against bots and fake news seriously, although more work needed to be done.

"They are doing a lot of effort but there are still a lot to be done. They are serious about it so there is no question. They are not lazy and they are not negligent," Levy said.Bureaucratic inaction and the prospect of adopting the intensely politicized Russia investigation were among the reasons Associate Attorney General Rachel Brand quit her high-ranking position at the Justice Department, NBC News reported Monday.

Multiple sources close to Brand told NBC the department's No. 3 official feared the possibility that, for one reason or another, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein would cede responsibility to her in overseeing the special counsel's investigation into Russian election meddling.

Rosenstein was put in charge of Robert Mueller's investigation following Attorney General Jeff Sessions' decision to recuse himself from the Russia probe. Sessions, a key surrogate for Donald Trump during the 2016 campaign, was found to have previously undisclosed contacts with Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak that Sessions did not mention in testimony on Capitol Hill.

Reports emerged Friday that Brand planned to leave the department "in the next few weeks." She has accepted a position as Walmart's executive vice president of global governance and corporate secretary, in which she will report directly to the company's President and CEO Doug McMillon.

"We have strengthened our governance capabilities and Rachel will help us continue on that journey," McMillon said Friday. Walmart did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment.

Rosenstein has reportedly been the target of Trump complaints lately. Aides have advised Trump not to fire the deputy attorney general.

Sources told NBC that Brand's job change followed a lengthy period of feeling unsupported in her role. As far back as the fall, she expresssed worries to friends about her proximity to the looming Russia investigation, NBC's sources said. Key vacancies in the Justice Department, unfilled more than one year into the Trump administration, exacerbated Brand's discontentment in her position.

About a third of the 13 divisions in Brand's purview, including the civil rights and civil divisions, remain vacant, according to NBC.

The White House and the Department of Justice did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Read the full report from NBC News.Trump, since being sworn in as president last year, has repeatedly tried and failed to get the Republican-controlled Congress to repeal the Affordable Care Act, as Obamacare is formally known.

The Trump budget calls for cutting $237 billion to Medicare, the huge federally run program that provides health coverage to primarily older Americans. When he ran for office, Trump told voters that he would not cut Medicare or Medicaid.

The budget, which faces long  if not impossible odds  of getting through Congress in its current form, also seeks to slash spending on Medicare .

His new budget proposal invokes the ghost of one of those doomed repeal bills, calling for "a two-step approach to repealing and replacing Obamacare, starting with the enactment of legislation modeled closely after the Graham-Cassidy-Heller-Johnson bill, as soon as possible," according to a summary released by the U.S. Health and Human Services Department.

Under that proposal, tax credits that help most Obamacare customers purchase health insurance coverage would be eliminated.

In their place, the federal government would give states health-care grants that the states then would have the option of using to subsidize the purchase of insurance by customers on the individual insurance market.

In another echo of Graham-Cassidy, the new budget proposal also would seek a rollback of Obamacare's expansion of Medicaid benefits to poor adults. Medicaid offers health coverage to primarily low-income people. Before Obamacare, most states either denied Medicaid coverage to people who did not have dependent children or set very low limits on how much a person could earn and still qualify for coverage.

HHS said that the Obamacare repeal provisions contained in the budget would save almost $680 billion over the next decade. While those savings might look attractive, some other costs associated with Graham-Cassidy could doom Trump's latest effort to kill Obamacare.

A vote on Graham-Cassidy was canceled last September after it became clear that Republicans, who hold a slim majority in the Senate, would not get "yes" votes from several GOP members.

The last Republican to come out against the bill, Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, did so right after the Congressional Budget Office said the number of people with health insurance that covers "high-cost medical events would be reduced by millions" if the bill became law.

Collins, in announcing her opposition, said the bill would have opened the door to states rolling back Obamacare protections for people with pre-existing health conditions, who before the ACA became law could be charged higher insurance premiums than healthy people.

The CBO earlier had said that repealing Obamacare could lead to 20 million or more Americans becoming uninsured.

Brad Woodhouse, director of the Obamacare advocacy group Protect Our Care Campaign, said the Trump administration's budget "is doubling down on its relentless war on American health care."

"By asking Congress to revive the deeply unpopular Graham-Cassidy repeal bill that ended protections for Americans with pre-existing conditions, gutted Medicaid, ripped away coverage from millions, and raised costs for millions more, while also proposing drastic cuts to Medicare," Woodhouse said.The White House budget calls for $3 trillion in deficit reduction, including $1.7 trillion in mandatory spending cuts.

The plan also proposes reducing discretionary spending by 2 percent a year after 2019.

The 2019 budget, however, doesn't balance, marking a reversal from Republican priorities in recent years.

In a summary outline that circulated Monday, the White House said the budget accounts for increased spending caps in the massive $320 billion spending deal hashed out between Republicans and Democrats last week.

The budget also calls for $18 billion to construct a southern border wall, a key part of President Donald Trump's campaign pitch to voters in 2016. The proposal also allocates more than $2.5 billion for additional border-security initiatives, including for more Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement staff and expanded capacity for detention.

The administration also released its long-awaited plan to stimulate more than $1.5 trillion in infrastructure projects. The White House budget proposes $200 billion in federal investment that focuses mainly on grants, "transformative projects" and rural infrastructure.

It would also reduce spending for health-care programs Medicare and Medicaid. The budget calls to cut funding for food assistance program SNAP.Thanks to the improving economy, something very unusual is going on in American politics.

American voters are separating the personal from the political in perhaps the most significant way ever.

President Donald Trump's overall approval rating in most polls is creeping up lately, yet it remains at historically weak levels for a president at this stage in his first term. But at the same time, voters are starting to become more positive about the economy and more willing to give Trump the credit for it.

Several polls are noting this trend, but it's most clear in the latest Quinnipiac College poll released on Feb. 7. That poll still has Trump at a weak 40 percent approval rating. But 70 percent of respondents said the overall economy is "excellent" or "good." That's up from 66 percent in January and just 53 percent in April of last year.

Most importantly for the political discussion, voters in the Quinnipiac poll said Trump was more responsible for the economy than former President Barack Obama. That was by a 48 percent to 41 percent margin. That's a 16 percentage point swing from January when the poll's respondents said President Obama was more responsible by a 49 to 40 percent difference.

These numbers were enough to get poll expert Nate Silver to sit up and take notice:

This is indeed major news. While it may seem like it a lot of the time, presidential campaigns are not literally popularity contests. The candidate most voters find personally more likable does not always win elections, according to many scholarly studies on the subject.

Those same studies show that voters usually choose the candidate who looks and sounds the most competent to them on major issues. So, personality and personal delivery are still crucial, but likability is still not as important as at least a perceived position on the issues.

These economic polls show that the American people seem to be coming to terms with the fact that they may not like Trump personally, but they do like his track record on the most crucial issue: the economy. This is literally the "competency over likability" winning formula.

The question now is whether that will tip the balance the upcoming 2018 midterm elections. No, Trump is not a candidate in those elections. But most midterm elections usually act as a referendum on the president and the job he's doing so far.

More importantly, the Democrats have long made it clear that they were going to do whatever they could to make Trump and his personal unpopularity their biggest issue in the midterms.

That seemed like a pretty good bet for months, as polls showed the Democrats with unusually large leads in generic congressional election polls. Now that trend has started to reverse at about the same time that Trump's numbers began to get a boost.

But that's not the correlation to focus on the most. It's crucial to remember this is still not about personal popularity. The most dramatic positive move in the polls recently is not for Trump personally, but for his signature tax reform law.

Tax reform was suffering with just 26 percent approval in the Monmouth poll in December. Just one month later, approval shot up to 44 percent and pulled even with those who disapproved of it. A New York Times poll taken a little earlier last month saw the same trend beginning to emerge. This could start to accelerate even more as more Americans start to see larger paychecks this month.

That's what makes this a double whammy for the Democrats. They can't counterattack these economic developments and perceptions simply by continuing their attacks on Trump. It's not Trump the voters are increasingly supporting or even focusing on, it's his policies.

The downside to all of this for the GOP is that the economy can still slow down between now and November. The stock market's now-intense volatility can burn a lot of investors, too. If that happens, Trump and the Republicans will have nowhere to hide as they take more and more ownership for that economy. But economic slowdowns are always a danger threatening every incumbent president and party in control of Congress. That's nothing new.

What is new is that the voters are showing more than ever that they don't need to like a president or a political party to support their perceived success. That means the Democrats may be concentrating their fire on the wrong target. Trump has endured maximum character assassination for years. But if his policies are soaring in popularity, it's going to be very hard to use him as a proxy to defeat his party in the midterms.

Commentary by Jake Novak, CNBC.com senior columnist. Follow him on Twitter @jakejakeny.

For more insight from CNBC contributors, follow @CNBCopinion on Twitter.Since last decade, NASA has turned repeatedly to Colorado companies to produce the technology it needs to not only send astronauts on new lunar missions but also to Mars and into the depths of space. Above, the International Space Station.

President Donald Trump's administration announced plans Monday to end NASA's funding of the International Space Station in 2025 and begin a new $150 million program to build commercial platforms in orbit.

There is only a handful of companies currently working to build private space stations. Two, Bigelow Aerospace and NanoRacks, have hardware on the ISS, while a third is set to launch its first module in 2020.

It is unclear whether the White House proposal means NASA will look to have private entities take over ISS operations. But the chief executives who spoke to CNBC were optimistic about what the proposal means for the future.

"I really, really appreciate the administration raising the issue now," NanoRacks CEO Jeff Manber told CNBC. "No one wants a gap like we had with the space shuttle program  it was embarrassing and counterproductive."

"Bigelow Aerospace applauds the focus on commercial partnerships for low Earth orbit and lunar exploration and stands ready to partner with NASA and others," CEO Robert Bigelow said in a statement to CNBC.

"We would continue on the work that was already begun on the ISS without throwing it all away. Otherwise, entities would need to build new hardware and get it to orbit all over again," Axiom Space CEO Michael Suffredini told CNBC.

Each of these companies is building habitable craft to continue humanity's presence in low Earth orbit. NanoRacks has multiple services on board the ISS, including a system which deploys small satellites from one of the modules on board. But NanoRacks wants to begin building commercial habitats out of the upper stages of rockets launched into orbit.

Bigelow Aerospace already has its habitable test module BEAM docked with the ISS. It arrived in April 2016 for a two-year mission to test the durability of the module. The modules built by Bigelow expand once they are deployed in orbit. If the BEAM testing is successful, the company would be able to launch much more cubic footage into space per launch compared with the modules that make up the ISS.

Axiom Space plans to build out the core of its station at the ISS before the existing craft is retired, detaching once Axiom's platform is self-sustaining. Its first module is supposed to launch in late 2020, built by one of the companies that built the ISS.

None of the companies' leaders expressed interest in taking over the ISS, which would be inherently complex due to the multinational nature of the existing platform.

"No one is looking at leasing the ISS, to run the entire station, as the ISS isn't just a U.S. entity," Tommy Sanford, director of the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, told CNBC. "There are agreements in place with almost 30 other nations for the space station."

Those agreements, according to NanoRacks' Manber, mean the ISS has "something for everybody," but from a commercial standpoint "doesn't really get us to where we want to be." With ISS operational costs running around $3 billion per year, there is an underlying disincentive for companies to purchase hardware that was first launched into space in 1998. Instead, each CEO emphasized the ISS as a stepping stone to establishing commercial operations in low Earth orbit.

"Consistency is key," Axiom's Suffredini said, if the U.S. is going to continue to have a human presence in low Earth orbit.

The ISS "is an integrated spacecraft," which means all its parts work together, Aerospace Industries Association vice president Frank Slazer told CNBC. Only a few elements "might be severable," Slazer added, saying that there "are details that have yet to be worked out."

Suffredini likewise noted that "it is very difficult, in a cost-effective way, to take too many of the components off of the ISS."

"We have a few we would like to take with us," Suffredini said. "But a wholesale taking over of the ISS is a very expensive endeavor."

Both Sanford and Slazer said there are concerns regarding a premature termination of the ISS, which Slazer says is committed for service "through 2024, but it has capabilities to go to at least 2028."

Manber, meanwhile, said seven years "is enough time for technology" to be ready for commercial operations in low Earth orbit, adding that NanoRacks "can be ready if the macro political environment allows it."

"Let's keep in mind that this is a market in its infancy and our competition right now are governments," Manber said. "What we're trying to do in space right now is extremely difficult and nuanced. We still need government support, but fortunately we have seen some the most extensive bipartisan support on the space industry's growth over the last decade."Speaking to The Washington Post en route home from a five-day Asia trip, the president's second-in-command described the strategy as "maximum pressure and engagement."

The United States is willing to talk with North Korean leadership even as it continues applying maximum pressure on the rogue state's economy, according to Vice President Mike Pence .

Vice President Mike Pence and President of South Korea Moon Jae-in watch short track speed skating at Gangneung Ice Arena on February 10, 2018 in Gangneung, South Korea.

The new plan was agreed upon during Pence's stay in South Korea last week for the Olympics, during which he had "substantive conversations" with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, the newspaper reported.

Both officials agreed that Seoul would first engage with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's team  the two neighbors recently held landmark talks  after which the U.S. may follow suit, the Post said. Pence told the newspaper he had conferred with President Donald Trump "every day he was in Asia."

This unified strategy marks a major change in Trump's attempts to resolve Pyongyang's aggressive nuclear and missile testing program and differs from the administration's previous attempts at economic punishment.

Trump and Moon have long clashed on how to rein in Kim's miilitary program  the White House has advocated force while Seoul has emphasized dialogue, a method that Moon's critics believe amounts to appeasement.

Speaking in Tokyo on Wednesday, Pence said Washington would soon unveil "the toughest and most aggressive round of economic sanctions on North Korea ever."Government-run services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be boosted a "hundred fold" thanks to artificial intelligence (AI), the country's first minister dedicated to fostering the technology told CNBC Monday.



The UAE leadership has been pushing the development of AI technology and it has been a large topic of discussion at the World Government Summit in Dubai.

Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, the UAE's minister of state for artificial intelligence, said the "agility" of the country's government will help it become a world leader in the technology.

"In 10 years we will be the capital of AI in service and government. I also think we will be a hub for AI in the region. AI is a very interesting field right now, it's very broad right now, so every country is going to look at specializing in their own field," Al Olama told CNBC in a TV interview on Monday.

He explained that the country's strengths lie in government and other areas like transport, which it will apply AI to. Other countries may be leaders in other fields. But the ultimate aim is to make the cities in the UAE feel futuristic.

"We are going to try to use AI to improve these services hundred fold from what they are today and we are going to try to implement them in the government in a way that makes every single resident and tourist feel like they are in the city of the future," Al Olama said.

The message at the World Government Summit around AI has been positive. Sebastian Thrun, the chairman of online education platform Udacity, and founder of Google X, the search giant's secret moonshot lab, told CNBC earlier on Monday that AI would create "superhuman workers."

A number of countries are investing heavily in AI. China recently announced plans to build a $2.1 billion research park dedicated to AI development, and said it wants to be the world leader in the technology by 2030.The Missourians Opinion section is a public forum for the discussion of ideas. The views presented in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missourian or the University of Missouri. If you would like to contribute to the Opinion page with a response or an original topic of your own, visit our submission formBrexit 1) Might Johnsons upcoming speech be eclipsed by those from five other cabinet members?

May will set out her vision in a series of talks over the coming weeks in a PR blitz ahead of Brussels negotiations  Herald

Johnson, Davis, and Fox will also give keynote speeches on UKs future  Daily Mail

But theres no speech planned from Hammond  Daily Telegraph

Brexit 2) May to call for UK to remain part of Europol and arrest warrant scheme

The foreign secretarys speech, first revealed by The Times last month, faces being eclipsed by other Brexit speeches, including two by the prime minister, designed to put meat on the bones of the plans for Brexit. On Wednesday Mr Johnson will try to ease the fears of Remain voters. On Saturday, Mrs May will give a speech on security ties to Europe at the Munich Security Conference. David Davis, the Brexit secretary, will give a speech on business and Liam Fox, the international trade secretary, will talk about global deals. David Lidington, in effect the prime ministers deputy, will address the consequences of Brexit for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.  The Times

The PM believes the UK should stay part of the European Arrest Warrant (EAW) and the EUs law enforcement body Europol, according to sources. In a in Munich next Saturday, she will argue that the EAW  which is valid throughout all the EUs member states  has helped keep Britain safe. In 2016-17, a total of 196 people were arrested using the warrant after a request from the UK, up from 150 in the previous year. Insiders said Theresa May will use her speech in the German capital to make a big offer to the EU to continue security co-operation. It is hoped the offer will make Brussels negotiators more willing to give Britain a bumper post-Brexit trade deal, according to the Sunday Times.  Daily Express

Its a bid to sweeten a good trade deal  The Sun

Brexit 3) Separate arrival-time-based registration systems for EU migrants may not be ready by March

Rees-Mogg says this would be a sad admission of incompetence at the Home Office  The Sun

Theresa May overruled the Home Office to insist that EU citizens who arrived during a Brexit transition period would not have the automatic right to remain in the country. The prime minister made the decision despite warnings from senior officials that they would struggle to create separate systems to register existing EU citizens and new arrivals by March next year. Mrs May announced this month that European citizens who arrived after the country had officially left the EU could not expect the same treatment as the three million citizens already in Britain. The move has caused alarm in the Home Office, with government sources admitting that work on a separate registration scheme had barely begun and almost certainly would not be ready in time.  The Times

More Brexit

Soubry talks about joining forces with pro-EU Labour MPs  The Times

Mordaunt says EU countries are getting frustrated with EU approach to talks  Daily Express

Is Barnier facing a rebellion?  The Sun

Soros to give another 100,000 to anti-Brexit campaign  Daily Mail

Comment:

We need to fudge this years negotiation  Juliet Samuel, Daily Telegraph

Parliament should step in and lead  Andrew Rawnsley, Guardian

Britain needs to embrace unilateral free trade  Geoff Raby, The Times

Yes it does. Corbyn knows it was a great left-wing cause  Daniel Hannan, Daily Telegraph

>Yesterday:

>Today: Lee Rotherham in comment: The EU is a rules-based organisation. Oh, really? Consider these ten examples to the contrary. And theres more.

May and Varadkar to meet Stormont representatives today

Theresa May is due to fly into Northern Ireland today amid growing speculation that a deal to restore the power-sharing government is imminent. The prime minister and Irish premier Leo Varadkar will meet with Stormonts main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate. A Downing Street official said Mrs May will take part in a series of meetings at Stormont House and encourage the parties to resolve their differences. The official added that the PM will make clear that the government remains fully committed to the restoration of power-sharing, devolution and the Belfast Agreement.  Belfast News Letter

He cancels meeting with Welsh first minister  Guardian

The NI stalemate has lasted over a year  Independent

Is a powersharing deal imminent?  Daily Telegraph

Meanwhile, McDonald calls Varadkar smarmy  Independent

Patel: The Oxfam scandal is the tip of the iceberg

Oxfam boss to meet Mordaunt today as ministers investigate abuse allegations

The Oxfam prostitution scandal where aid workers were abusing women and possibly children is atrocious, but only the tip of the iceberg. When Secretary of State for International Development, it was my mission to ensure that every taxpayer pound was spent to serve those in need, and met UK development objectives. That meant accountability not just on aid effectiveness, but also the sexual abuse, not just of adults, but also the rape of children. I would like to say that I was supported and presented with facts from the department laying out the long history that UK governments, Labour and Conservative, had in tackling this global problem. Sadly, I cant.  Daily Telegraph

Ministers have launched an investigation into claims that foreign aid officials brushed off allegations of child abuse committed by aid workers. Priti Patel, who ran the department until November, writes in the Telegraph that the Oxfam prostitution scandal is only the tip of the iceberg but that her own officials had dismissed her concerns when she raised them.  The charitys chief executive Paul Goldring will meet Penny Mordaunt, the international development secretary, on Monday after she threatened to withdraw millions of pounds of government funding.  Daily Telegraph

The secretary for international development has demanded full information  Independent

and threatened to end the charitys funding  Guardian

which amounts to 32m per year  FT

She calls cover-up despicable  Daily Express

Meanwhile, she has been attending Johnsons team meetings  The Times

Comment:

Conservatives will exploit the psychological link between the scandal and calls for aid cuts  Matthew dAncona, Guardian

The aid budget is an easy target  Will Quince, The Times

Funding to Oxfam should increase  Matthew Norman, Independent

This scandal is bigger than Weinstein  Trevor Kavanagh, The Sun

It should come as no surprise  Dominic Lawson, Daily Mail

Editorials:

If the government knew and did nothing, heads must roll  The Sun

Theres a serious disconnect policy-wise between the FCO and Dfid  The Times

>Yesterday: Videos: WATCH: Mordaunt  Aid is good, but we have to reassure donors.

>Today: ToryDiary: The withdrawal of public funds is the best thing that could happen to Oxfam

Jo Johnson to call for end of diesel trains

The target date is 2040  Daily Telegraph

But the news follows scrapping of electrification projects  FT

The rail industry should reduce its emissions by aspiring to remove all trains that run only on diesel by 2040, according to the new rail minister. Campaigners welcomed the comments by Jo Johnson but questioned the governments commitment to reducing rail emissions, pointing out that it had cancelled the electrification of key routes last year. In a speech at the British Museum today, Mr Johnson will say: I would like to see us take all diesel-only trains off the track by 2040.  The Times

More Conservatives

Altman criticises DWP spending on appeals and reviews  Guardian

Party denies plans to take away local members power to select candidates  Guardian

Westminster Council poses a voluntary tax to highest rate payers to help homeless  The Sun

>Today:

Criticism over Labour Equalities Conferences bar on white heterosexual males

Labour has become embroiled in a new discrimination row after an event organised by the party was found to have barred straight white men from attending. MPs last night accused Labour of abandoning its principles after it emerged that Young Labours Equalities Conference would only permit entrants who were disabled, LGBT, female, or from an ethnic minority background. White heterosexual men were not listed as eligible for entry to the event, which will take place on 17 March in central London.  Daily Telegraph

More Labour

Momentum begins massive recruitment drive  Daily Mail

McDonnell wont rule out more democratic engagement on Brexit  Guardian

>Yesterday:

Other parties

>Yesterday: Videos: WATCH: UKIP. Marr  Its over, isnt it? Bolton  No, I dont believe it is.

News in BriefGary Kent: Two cheers for this report  which highlights the plight of the Kurds. While we turn a blind eye.

Gary Kent is the Secretary of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on the Kurdistan Region. He writes in a personal capacity.

That the airports in the Kurdistan Region, lifelines for our valiant and valuable ally in the fight against Daesh, have been blockaded by Baghdad for nearly five months is an under-reported and little known scandal that should shame Baghdad  and us for not being more forthcoming about its injustice.

Kurds who want to travel abroad for medical, family or commercial reasons can drive to Turkish airports or take internal flights via Baghdad. However, many of the consider the Iraqi capital unsafe and cannot afford the extra costs and time, as do foreigners who have to wait longer for visas (previously available on arrival in Kurdistan) and also resent the extra expense. Kurdistan has become a near no-fly zone, and this is crippling its economy.

That the needless violent reaction by Baghdad to the Kurdistani referendum last September also heavily relied on Iranian-backed and sectarian Shia militia, using advanced American Abrams tank and other kit, should be seen as a major blow to UK and Western ambitions to prevent Iran from gaining further expanding its influence in the Middle East. With Kurdistan diminished and weak, the notorious Al Quds commander, Qasem Solemaini, can more easily take his expeditionary forces from Tehran to the Mediterranean.

The blockade and other measures aim to squeeze the Kurds in acts of collective punishment. (Furthermore, Baghdads actions drove the Kurds to seek independence  a quest which was endorsed by a decisive 93 per cent of the people on a 72 per cent turnout in last years peaceful referendum. Sectarian centralisation was also a major driver of Sunni radicalisation, and encouraged many to embrace Daesh as preferable to Shia rule from Baghdad. The latters continuing strong-arm tactics could yet sustain Sunni extremism and Kurdistani disenchantment.

That none of this was an inevitable or necessary let alone constitutional reaction by Baghdad was camouflaged by its coinciding with the much more controversial referendum in Catalonia which dominated the headlines and allowed Baghdad to get away with it  with no protests from the international community.

Bringing this monstrous treatment of the Kurds to an end may be helped by a new diplomatically phrased but still damning report of Baghdad and the FCO from the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC), chaired by Tom Tugendhat.

The report observes that many Kurds feel imprisoned in a country that they see as not implementing its commitments of equality to them. The FCO must therefore press for these commitments to be fulfilled. The FCO should press the government of Iraq to lift the restrictions placed on the Kurdistan Region of Iraq after the referendum, and recognises that the overwhelming vote in favour of independence was amanifestation of deep frustration and dissatisfaction with the Kurdistan Region of Iraqs place in Iraq,

The report acknowledges that these restrictions and the role played by Shia militias in confronting the Kurds are only likely to encourage the Kurds on the path to departure rather than integrationthe Committee felt that the FCO did not adequately address these issues. The FCO should call for these restrictions to be lifted, and not shy away from giving a view on these militias activities and their connections with Iran.

The report argues that the UK should boost efforts to resolve these issues by offering itself alongside international partners in an enhanced role of facilitating dialogue, and should secure the backing and support of the wider international community to play such a role.

The FAC does not shy away from recognising internal Kurdish problems, and cites clear signs of corruption, and the possibility that democracy is being curtailed, about which the FCO had little to say.

It tacitly recognises the parlous position of the Kurdish Regional Government by recommending that the UK should supply and encourage others to provide capacity-building courses and training that equip KRI policy-makers and others with the greater ability to promote political reform and economic reform and diversification. In 25 visits to Kurdistan since 2006, ministers and civil society leaders have often told me that our political engagement is most vital.

The FACs advocacy of enhanced dialogue, just short of mediation, can embolden a new approach to a dilemma in international relations and a perennial problem faced by the Kurds  a near nation and a people with the right to self-determination, but in a situation whereby realpolitik places the priority on the rights of the sovereign entity. If the UK and others prefer the Kurds remain in Iraq, they need to ensure it is not a prison.

The Kurds have survived worse than this latest outrageous suffocation of their society, and will bounce back as and when their enemies are weaker, and if they use the interregnum to overcome needless divisions. They have so far checked Baghdad to some degree, while the latters divisions and belated international pressure have relaxed its original intention, in my view, of kneecapping the Kurdistan Region as a recognised autonomous entity within the Iraqi constitution.

Two cheers to the FAC for highlighting the Kurdistani plight and making welcome recommendations that would ease Kurdistans isolation and increase chances of a successful resolution of differences with Baghdad  but flunking dilemmas in international relations doctrine that have hurt the Kurds.Dr Lee Rotherham is Director of the Red Cell, and is Executive Director of Veterans for Britain.

The Brexit transition inevitably raises a large number of technical and legalistic questions. But some of the biggest are turning out really to be political ones. A noted example has been the attempt to bar Liam Fox from discussing Britains future free trade agreements  let alone sign off a postdated draft. The most stultifyingly outrageous, though, is the proposition that the UK has to have left the EU before it can negotiate what future trade terms will look like. This really does test the assertion that the EU is a rules-based organisation.

Such phasing was obviously expedient for the European Commission, which sought to neutralise a high value card held by London. As a net donor, our net payments might be withheld at a point of outrage (the cheque gets sent in by the Treasury every fortnight, as Margaret Thatcher noticed). Yet enforcing this preliminary transition period has led to a muddle of expectations that are currently less Norway and more Neiflheim, and constitutes the single biggest dynamic hampering ministers seeking to (literally) deliver the goods.

Cecilia Malmstrom, the Trade Commissioner, declared back in 2016: There are actually two negotiations. First you exit, and then you negotiate the new relationship, whatever that is. But it was not until December 2017 that the Council of Ministers signed off the Commissions presumption. It could just as easily rescind it.

The pretended legal basis for this methodology turns out to be as shaky as a palm tree in hurricane season. The Commission cites the standard trade negotiation elements within the Lisbon Treaty, pointing in effect to the self-raising absurdity of only the Commission being mandated to negotiate with itself. In reality, as Piet Eeckhout and Oliver Patel at UCL (amongst others) have observed, the Commission has adopted this position as it has chosen to apply Article 50 just to withdrawal and transition, but the clause itself legally allows an FTA to be negotiated before the UK leaves.

This procedure contradicts the original plan. When Article 50 was first drawn up, it was clear in discussions at the drafting convention for the European Constitution that the two year transition period was intended to cover reaching an end deal. It was no coincidence that the paragraphs were released at the same time as the draft Good Neighbour Clause, of which we presently hear too little. Basically, the Commission has been pulling a fast one.

The reality is that when it comes to high stakes issues, the Commission has a track record of pushing at the legal margins. A swerve here wouldnt create any precedent. Lets remind ourselves of a few occasions where the letter of the law in this Rules Based Organisation has been lacking the odd dot or crossed T;

Eurozone accession criteria . Countries seeking to join the Euro needed to hit the Maastricht targets over inflation, public debt, deficit, and exchange stability. Despite being quite generously set (and not in a good way), all of a sudden three digit debt was no longer an issue for candidate countries. This allowed Belgium to join. A side effect incidentally ironically meant that Commission staff stopped getting paid in notes that carried the image of two surrealists, an expressionist, a bankrupt inventor, and the Laeken greenhouse. But to get there required a mass of rule-bending shenanigans on a scale to fill a book  which is precisely where they did end up, thanks to whistleblower Bernard Connolly.

. Countries seeking to join the Euro needed to hit the Maastricht targets over inflation, public debt, deficit, and exchange stability. Despite being quite generously set (and not in a good way), all of a sudden three digit debt was no longer an issue for candidate countries. This allowed Belgium to join. A side effect incidentally ironically meant that Commission staff stopped getting paid in notes that carried the image of two surrealists, an expressionist, a bankrupt inventor, and the Laeken greenhouse. But to get there required a mass of rule-bending shenanigans on a scale to fill a book  which is precisely where they did end up, thanks to whistleblower Bernard Connolly. Rubber Clauses . Articles 94, 95 and 308 of the Treaty establishing the European Community were introduced as catch-all clauses for expanding bits of the new Single Market that werent covered in the treaties. They are rubber, as they then got stretched.

. Articles 94, 95 and 308 of the Treaty establishing the European Community were introduced as catch-all clauses for expanding bits of the new Single Market that werent covered in the treaties. They are rubber, as they then got stretched. The Social Chapter . John Majors travails in seeking to block this coming in under Health and Safety are a matter of note everywhere but his more recent newspaper articles.

. John Majors travails in seeking to block this coming in under Health and Safety are a matter of note everywhere but his more recent newspaper articles. The European Parliament . The EECs parliamentary assembly was renamed by delegates themselves, rather than following the provision in the treaties (which took several years to catch up).

. The EECs parliamentary assembly was renamed by delegates themselves, rather than following the provision in the treaties (which took several years to catch up). The Disaster Clause. Eurozone bailouts infamously misapplied the Lisbon article intended for actual rather than metaphorical earthquakes. Paradoxically, some Remain campaigners have cited David Camerons legally-justified reaction to this as a reason behind him not being offered better terms during renegotiation.

Eurozone bailouts infamously misapplied the Lisbon article intended for actual rather than metaphorical earthquakes. Paradoxically, some Remain campaigners have cited David Camerons legally-justified reaction to this as a reason behind him not being offered better terms during renegotiation. Renewable Energy Directive . Key parts of the Energy Union proposals over several years triggered objections about the lack of a proper legal basis. They did so again in December and January, when it came before MEPs.

. Key parts of the Energy Union proposals over several years triggered objections about the lack of a proper legal basis. They did so again in December and January, when it came before MEPs. Security in Development . Notwithstanding its potential merits, the Stability and Peace Instrument has been challenged for being brought in under Development policy rather than the more restrictive CFSP model, where it naturally sits.

. Notwithstanding its potential merits, the Stability and Peace Instrument has been challenged for being brought in under Development policy rather than the more restrictive CFSP model, where it naturally sits. Tax Sovereignty . The Republic of Ireland has been on the war path over its pursuit of Apple, claiming that the European Commission has grossly exceeded its powers.

. The Republic of Ireland has been on the war path over its pursuit of Apple, claiming that the European Commission has grossly exceeded its powers. Italian Bank Bailouts . Critics challenge the legality of not one but three recently authorised bank bailouts by Rome. Der Spiegel has once again accused the Eurozone of ignoring its own rules.

. Critics challenge the legality of not one but three recently authorised bank bailouts by Rome. Der Spiegel has once again accused the Eurozone of ignoring its own rules. Migrant Relocation Scheme . Hungary and Slovakia, backed by Poland, challenged the 2015 quota system for sharing migrants (the UK had an opt out). The Luxembourg Court ruled that the agreed safeguards didnt apply as the decision wasnt a legislative one.

The mantra of the EU being a rules-based organisation is no obstacle to the Commission setting to work on delivering the end treaty as we speak, rather than pursuing its current Mr Magoo adventure.

As it happens, the Council is now mapping out its own ideas for a Framework Agreement, and how the UK-EU treaty could look. The sketch is reportedly set to be finished in March, after which point the institutions will largely get distracted by the budget for a few months. But that should not be the end of matters. Once that concept is put on paper, work should move straight towards concluding an end deal that covers all de-accession chapters where there is clear agreement. The more contentious remainder could be pushed into a second round of negotiations, with the gap covered by a more limited transitional arrangement.

It is a lot easier to reach your objective by first determining your destination and then mapping the journey. Ever since listing an Irish border settlement as a prerequisite for talks, the Commissions approach has instead been that negotiators ink the route without looking at the journeys end.

The Commission has been pushing a high-risk policy of its own making. So it is beholden on everyone seeking to deliver a Brexit deal, whether in the UK or on the continent, to warn Berlaymont to extradigitate itself in the forthcoming Phase Two of talks. That lobby should include not only a number of well-placed members of the Lords who seemingly enjoy good relations with former colleagues in Brussels; but also our former Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg  who last year claimied 114,982 allowances for official duties, and is clearly in sufficient stead to drop by the Rue de la Loi and call on Michel Barnier.Five years ago, the TaxPayers Alliance reported that in the last year, five times more Labour people were appointed to public bodies than Tories.

Since then, the figures have varied, and some Conservative members or supporters have been selected to fill important posts.

Nonetheless, it remains the case that, since it took office in 2010, our Party has punched beneath its weight when it comes to public appointments. One of the reasons seems to be that Tories simply dont apply in the same number as Labour supporters.

To help remedy this, every week we put up links to some of the main public appointments vacancies, so that qualified Conservatives might be aware of the opportunities presented.

         

The Law Commission  Chair

The Chairman of the Commission has a pivotal role both within the Commission and externally. The Chairman, working with the Chief Executive, plays a key part in identifying and responding to the strategic challenges that face the Commission. The Chairman is also the public face of the Commission and can expect to be asked by the media to give interviews. He or she represents the Commission in public and is very much involved in meeting Ministers across Departments in order to gain acceptance of Law Commission proposals. They will also play a substantial role discussing budget and other strategic issues with Ministers and senior officials in the Ministry of Justice.

Time: Full-time.

Remuneration: None.

Closes: 14 February

         

Committee on Radioactive Waste Management  Chair

The Committee on Radioactive Waste Management (CoRWM) provides independent scrutiny and advice to UK Government and Devolved Administration Ministers on the long-term management of radioactive waste, including storage and disposal. The Committees primary task is to provide independent scrutiny on the UK Governments and Radioactive Waste Management Ltds (RWMs) high profile programme to deliver geological disposal, together with interim storage, for higher activity wastes The role of the CoRWM Chair is high profile and the Chair may be required to appear before Parliamentary Select Committees. The Chair is also the Committees main point of contact with stakeholders and will represent the Committees views to both broadcasting and written media (where required).

Time: Up to 78 days per year.

Remuneration: 450 per diem plus travel and subsistence.

Closes: 19 February

         

Bank of England  Chair of the Court

The Bank of England is the central bank of the United Kingdom. The Court of Directors is responsible for setting and monitoring the Banks objectives and strategy, including its financial objectives. Candidates are sought for the role of Chair of Court. All Bank of England Non-Executive Directors are appointed by the Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer. The Chair of Court is designated by the Chancellor from among the Non-Executive Directors. The Chair is of pivotal importance to the Banks governance and will continue to play a vital role at a time of continuing change in the Bank functions and organisation. The Chair is expected to work in close partnership with the Governors, other NEDs, senior bank officials and the Treasury.

Time: Around two days per week.

Remuneration: 48,000 per annum.

Closes: 20 February

         

British Library  Chair

The Bank of England is the central bank of the United Kingdom. The Court of Directors is responsible for setting and monitoring the Banks objectives and strategy, including its financial objectives. Candidates are sought for the role of Chair of Court. All Bank of England Non-Executive Directors are appointed by the Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer. The Chair of Court is designated by the Chancellor from among the Non-Executive Directors. The Chair is of pivotal importance to the Banks governance and will continue to play a vital role at a time of continuing change in the Bank functions and organisation. The Chair is expected to work in close partnership with the Governors, other NEDs, senior bank officials and the Treasury.

Time: Around two days per week.

Remuneration: 35,180 per annum.

Closes: 22 February

         

Social Mobility Commission  Chair

This is an exciting opportunity to fundamentally shape the social mobility agenda. The Chair leads the Social Mobility Commission, shaping its direction and priorities, and ensuring that it fulfils its remit, as set out in legislation. You will: utilise the knowledge and experience of the other Commissioners, actively engaging them with the business of the Commission; oversee major research reports and publications, including the Commissions Annual Report, which is laid before parliament; build effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders, including Ministers, senior government officials and experts in the field (including engaging Ministers in the Commissions priorities and, potentially, being asked to advise Ministers on particular issues); be an advocate for the social mobility agenda, holding to account and challenging key institutions; and be the public spokesperson for the Commission, regularly speaking at events and to the media.

Time: Approx days per month.

Remuneration: Reasonable expenses.

Closes: 25 February

         

Interim Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation  Chair

Advances in the uses of data are transforming our lives in positive and powerful ways. From our health, our economic productivity and our everyday social interactions, data-driven technologies are having profound consequences across all aspects of our lives. The associated economic benefits are huge and growing, with estimates suggesting that the uptake of AI technologies could add up to 10 per cent to GDP by 2030 Our task is to harness this technology for the common good: to promote its benefits, support innovation, and mitigate the risks so it works for all. For the UK to lead the world in digital and data-driven technologies, we must ensure we have a governance regime that fully supports both ethical and innovative uses of these technologies. The UK already benefits from a world-class regulatory regime. We must build on this by ensuring we understand and respond to the rapidly evolving ways in which uses of data are impacting our lives.

Time: 2-3 days per week.

Remuneration: An appropriate rate.

Closes: 28 February

         

Animals in Science Committee  Chair

The Chair of the ASC will be expected to deliver a key leadership role by harnessing the energy and expertise of committee members to deliver timely advice to Ministers. To enable this, the successful candidate will be required to develop and foster strong and constructive relationships with committee members and senior stakeholders, including Ministers, Parliament, Devolved Administrations, Government officials, and practitioners. The Chair will, on behalf of the membership, provide the primary interface to Government Ministers and other stakeholders, including the public and media.

Time: 20 days per annum minimum.

Remuneration: Reasonable travel and subsistence costs.

Closes: 13 March

         

Office of Gas and Electicity Markets  Chair

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) is a non-ministerial government department and an independent National Regulatory Authority, recognised by EU Directives. Its principal objective when carrying out our functions is to protect the interests of existing and future electricity and gas consumers. It does this in a variety of ways including: promoting value for money; promoting security of supply and sustainability, for present and future generations of consumers, domestic and industrial users; the supervision and development of markets and competition; and regulation and the delivery of government schemes.

Time: The post-holder will work 3-3.5 days per week (negotiable).

Remuneration: The Chair will receive a part-time pay at the rate of 160-170,000 per annum.

Closes: 16 MarchCORNWALL, Ontario  The five Canadian Union of Public Employee councils (CUPE) that represent approximately 600 City of Cornwall employees will be protesting outside Cornwall City Hall on Monday, Feb. 12, 2018.

The protest will start at 6 p.m. and will likely continue into the beginning of Monday nights council meeting. CUPE had begun protests of this kind in September, but this is the first such protest of 2018.

The 600 CUPE employees have been working without a contract since 2015.

In 2017 it was reported in local media that City Council had passed a zero percent increase to their wages in a closed meeting.

We feel the City wants us to roll over with the old contracts which is no real negotiation, said Alison Denis, a National CUPE Representative at the first protest in September.

The CUPE councils expected to be present at the Monday night protest are Council 3251, which represents inside workers, 234, which represents outside workers, 1792, for Glen-Stor-Dun Lodge employees, 3251-51 for library workers, and 5734 which represents paramedics.Major consolidation is planned in the government services sector Monday, when defense contractor General Dynamics announced its intent to acquire federal solutions provider CSRA for roughly $6.8 billion.

The deal, valued at $9.6 billion in total, includes the assumption of CSRA's debt of $2.8 billion. The Falls Church, Va.-based giant, No. 14 on the 2017 CRN Solution Provider 500, will sell its outstanding common stock for $40.75 per share; the company reported revenue of $5 billion in fiscal year 2017.

"We believe that this combination creates a clear, differentiated leader in the federal IT sector, with a full spectrum of enterprise IT capabilities, including unique depth in next-gen offerings in conjunction with our commercial IT alliance partners," CSRA President and CEO Larry Prior said in a statement.

[Related: CSRA To Purchase App Development Firm To Strengthen Intelligence Capabilities ]

CSRA stock increased more than 31 percent to $40.55 per share during premarket trading.

General Dynamics anticipates the transaction will close in the first half of 2018, and plans to finance it through a mix of cash and new debt. The $31 billion aerospace and defense company said CSRA, as part of its information systems and technology division, will be able to provide more cutting-edge IT solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense, intelligence outfits and federal civilian agencies.

Business jet, submarine, combat vehicle and communication systems provision are among the other services General Dynamics delivers to the government sector.

Last year, CSRA was awarded a $498 million, eight-year contract to provide the Department of Defense with private cloud infrastructure for highly protected workloads. The deal transitions to the Department of Defense to an Infrastructure-as-a-Service model aimed at reducing costs and heightening efficiency.

CSRA itself made a key acquisition last fall, purchasing Annapolis Junction, Md.-based Praxis Engineering Technologies for $235 million in a bid to boost its software and systems engineering capabilities within its intelligence community accounts.

General Dynamics said the deal should be accretive to its earnings per share in 2019, with projected pre-tax cost savings of 2 percent of combined revenue achievable by 2020.

The nearly $10 billion total valuation of the General Dynamics-CSRA deal would have made it the third-largest tech merger or acquisition to take place in 2017.Ron Huddleston, who spent much of last year leading a revamp of Microsoft's channel structure, is planning to tap his experiences working at the world's largest enterprise software vendors to drive growth in the Twilio channel.

"Its a whole new opportunity for partners, the way I look at it," Huddleston, who started his job at Twilio last week, told CRN of his new employer's technology.

As a company that straddles communications and cloud computing Twilio can welcome into its channel a wide variety of partner types, from resellers and volume-based distributors to "almost every ISV on the planet," he said.

[Related: Cloud Computing: Now A $180 Billion Market]

The San Francisco-based company has yet to define and fully engage that spectrum of partnerssomething Huddleston said he will train his sights on doing as Chief Partners Officer.

"Twilio is so developer-focused," Huddleston told CRN. But the C-level position with an uncommon title will be about "adding a little of that business opportunity layer on top of it. We're building those value propositions as we speak."

Once in charge of the Salesforce AppExchange online marketplace, Huddleston has been reaching out to partners in that ecosystem, all of whom, he believes, can build new practices with Twilio.

"I'm looking at every cloud VAR and ISV I've ever worked with in the past. Almost all of them can do something with communications, do something that connects human beings," Huddleston told CRN.

"Partners that built practices around CRM, it is such an easy jump to how we can further enable customer relationships by helping you connect to your other customers or people anyway you want."

Twilio's products can be leveraged by the channel to drive business in several ways, he said, from integrating communications capabilities into their customers' existing solutions, to reselling the platform.

"We need to make a lot more noise around the business opportunities wrapped into reselling Twilio," he said.

Huddleston came to Salesforce from Oracle when the CRM giant only had a handful of partners. He played a crucial role in building a partner program there that cultivated one of the world's largest channel ecosystems.

He sees a similar challenge at Twilio.

"Twilio is at the same place that Salesforce was when I first started there 10 years ago," he said. And just like Salesforce had to educate a new market and an ecosystem of partners growing around it, Twilio will do the same in its space.

"It really comes down to the same things," he said. "Group partners by how they generate revenue, and make sure you have packaging and support and focus for them."

Twilio just made a large investment in its go-to-market efforts, and the partner ecosystem will see much of that funding, he said.

"Over the next few years, partners should be a substantial part of Twilio's growth and revenue. Partners need to be the way that Twilio scales," Huddleston told CRN.

The incentives are already lined up, so now it's just about providing the guidance that helps those partners be successful with the technology, he said.

Huddleston joined Microsoft in June of 2016. The following February he was tasked with leading the newly formed One Commercial Partner program, a sweeping reorganization that consolidated several of Microsoft's partner and services teams,

He spent eight years before that at Salesforce as the channel executive charged with spearheading growth of the AppExchange online marketplace.

Before joining Salesforce, Huddleston climbed the ranks at Oracle, where he started his career, to vice president.

Huddleston had been reported on indefinite leave from Microsoft in December. His duties in driving the partner programs were picked up by Gavriella Schuster.

Twilio offers a cloud-based platform delivering APIs software developers can use to send phone calls, text messages and video directly from within their applications.

"As the leading communications platform for developers, we believe Twilio has unmatched potential to be the heart of an ecosystem for ISVs, SIs, and resellers in a massive market opportunity," George Hu, chief operating officer at Twilio, said in a prepared statement.Port TampaBay is closing in on a million passengers this year with the addition of the Carnival Miracle, which begins year-round service in January. For 2017, the port saw a nice increase in business to 961,000 cruise guests, mainly attributed to Royal Caribbeans expanded deployment from the port sailing to Cuba.

They werent alone, however, as Carnival Cruise Line also added Cuba sailings.

The cruises to Cuba added excitement and generated demand for more, commented Greg Lovelace, director of marketing and business development.

In addition is a new five-year agreement with Royal Caribbean, with an option for two more years. Tampa is guaranteed certain passenger numbers and in exchange, spent around $2 million upgrading Terminal 6 for the cruise line, said Lovelace.

They see a lot of potential in the market, its a testament to Tampa Bay, he added. This year will see Royal Caribbean sail two vessels during the winter from Tampa, and one ship in the summer.

Seasonal business includes single ship homeporting from Holland America Line, in its 35th year sailing from Tampa, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

The port worked closely with both Carnival and Royal Caribbean to host shipboard events to mark the first sailings to Cuba, bringing the culture from Tampas Ybor City neighborhood, which has Cuban roots, aboard.

Havana is due south, and having a new destination in the Western Caribbean, which is our primary market, is huge, Lovelace said.

We certainly see ourselves as continuing to be a significant homeport with a niche for Western Caribbean sailings, which hopefully will include Cuba for a long time.

---

Get an in-depth, behind the scenes look at the North America cruise market and the ports that make it happen in the 2017-2018 Winter edition Cruise Industry News Quarterly Magazine. Subscribe today.Shekhar Grover from Royal Caribbean International has won the Bacardi Legacy Cruise Bartender of the Year 2018 with The Royal Legacy," his own signature cocktail created especially for the competition.

His win qualifies him for the global finals in Mexico City in May 2018 where he will compete against winners from 38 different markets, according to a statement.

Shekhar scooped the ultimate prize from thousands of entries in the cruise sector. The Bacardi Legacy cruise final was held on February 6, 2018 in Miami.

Zachary Sulkes International Key Account Manager (Cruise), Bacardi Global Travel Retail commented: Shekhar has been especially inspirational with his masterful creation, exceeding expectations to deliver a unique and truly world class cocktail. His care and professionalism throughout the process epitomize best in class bartending in any sector, and he is a fantastic ambassador for the cruise industry an increasingly important channel for the premium drinks industry.

Juan Coronado, Bacardi Brand Ambassador for the United States and a Bacardi Legacy competition judge added: After seeing Shekhar's performance during the 2018 Global Travel Retail finals, I'm excited to say that he truly opened my eyes to the enormous hospitality, talent and level of skills required as a cruise ship bartender. The Royal Legacy conjures spices and stone fruit flavors that, together with the oak and vanilla notes of Bacardi Ocho (8) Anos, create a succulent cocktail that you want to last forever."

Shekar Grover said: There are lots of competitions around the world, but being part of the Bacardi Legacy is more than the competition, its about being welcomed with an open heart into the Bacardi family. Im honoured to be part of this competition and will put everything towards my best possible approach for the global finals. Its a dream come true for me and I can feel the Bacardi bats all around me!

I named my cocktail The Royal Legacy to represent the legacy of the royal family; Bacardi Ocho (8) Anos with its tropical fruits as a base is complemented by dates infused with Martini Bianco and with MARTINI Rosso paired with two dashes of aztec chocolate and plum bitters. I hope everyone will enjoy the taste as much as Ive enjoyed the creation!

The Royal Legacy:

Ingredients:

1.5 parts BACARDI Ocho (8) Anos

1 part MARTINI Rosso vermouth

1 part MARTINI Bianco vermouth infused with dates

2 dashes chocolate bitters

2 dashes plum bitters

Skewered dates to garnish

Preparation Method:

Infuse dates with Martini Bianco vermouth and keep aside for a couple of hours in a very small batch. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass and top up with ice. Stir well and double strain into a rocks glass over a block of ice. Garnish with dry dates.

The Bacardi Legacy Global Cocktail Competition is a global search to find a cocktail that can stand the test of time to become a true Bacardi classic; a cocktail that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with cocktails, such as heritage classics including the Bacardi daiquiri or Bacardi mojito.In todays data-driven world, data breaches can affect hundreds of millions or even billions of people at a time. Digital transformation has increased the supply of data moving, and data breaches have scaled up with it as attackers exploit the data-dependencies of daily life. How large cyberattacks of the future might become remains speculation, but as this list of the biggest data breaches of the 21st Century indicates, they have already reached enormous magnitudes.

For transparency, this list has been calculated by the number of users impacted, records exposed, or accounts affected. We have also made a distinction between incidents where data was actively stolen or reposted maliciously and those where an organization has inadvertently left data unprotected and exposed, but there has been no significant evidence of misuse. The latter have purposefully not been included in the list.

So, here it is  an up-to-date list of the 15 biggest data breaches in recent history, including details of those affected, who was responsible, and how the companies responded (as of July 2021).

1. Yahoo

Date: August 2013

Impact: 3 billion accounts

Securing the number one spot  almost seven years after the initial breach and four since the true number of records exposed was revealed  is the attack on Yahoo. The company first publicly announced the incident  which it said took place in 2013  in December 2016. At the time, it was in the process of being acquired by Verizon and estimated that account information of more than a billion of its customers had been accessed by a hacking group. Less than a year later, Yahoo announced that the actual figure of user accounts exposed was 3 billion. Yahoo stated that the revised estimate did not represent a new security issue and that it was sending emails to all the additional affected user accounts.

Despite the attack, the deal with Verizon was completed, albeit at a reduced price. Verizons CISO Chandra McMahon said at the time: Verizon is committed to the highest standards of accountability and transparency, and we proactively work to ensure the safety and security of our users and networks in an evolving landscape of online threats. Our investment in Yahoo is allowing that team to continue to take significant steps to enhance their security, as well as benefit from Verizons experience and resources. After investigation, it was discovered that, while the attackers accessed account information such as security questions and answers, plaintext passwords, payment card and bank data were not stolen.

2. Alibaba

Date: November 2019

Impact: 1.1 billion pieces of user data

Over an eight-month period, a developer working for an affiliate marketer scraped customer data, including usernames and mobile numbers, from the Alibaba Chinese shopping website, Taobao, using crawler software that he created. It appears the developer and his employer were collecting the information for their own use and did not sell it on the black market, although both were sentenced to three years in prison.

A Taobao spokesperson said in a statement: Taobao devotes substantial resources to combat unauthorized scraping on our platform, as data privacy and security is of utmost importance. We have proactively discovered and addressed this unauthorized scraping. We will continue to work with law enforcement to defend and protect the interests of our users and partners.

3. LinkedIn

Date: June 2021

Impact: 700 million users

Professional networking giant LinkedIn saw data associated with 700 million of its users posted on a dark web forum in June 2021, impacting more than 90% of its user base. A hacker going by the moniker of God User used data scraping techniques by exploiting the sites (and others) API before dumping a first information data set of around 500 million customers. They then followed up with a boast that they were selling the full 700 million customer database. While LinkedIn argued that as no sensitive, private personal data was exposed, the incident was a violation of its terms of service rather than a data breach, a scraped data sample posted by God User contained information including email addresses, phone numbers, geolocation records, genders and other social media details, which would give malicious actors plenty of data to craft convincing, follow-on social engineering attacks in the wake of the leak, as warned by the UKs NCSC.

4. Sina Weibo

Date: March 2020

Impact: 538 million accounts

With over 600 million users, Sina Weibo is one of Chinas largest social media platforms. In March 2020, the company announced that an attacker obtained part of its database, impacting 538 million Weibo users and their personal details including real names, site usernames, gender, location, and phone numbers. The attacker is reported to have then sold the database on the dark web for $250.

Chinas Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) ordered Weibo to enhance its data security measures to better protect personal information and to notify users and authorities when data security incidents occur. In a statement, Sina Weibo argued that an attacker had gathered publicly posted information by using a service meant to help users locate the Weibo accounts of friends by inputting their phone numbers and that no passwords were affected. However, it admitted that the exposed data could be used to associate accounts to passwords if passwords are reused on other accounts. The company said it strengthened its security strategy and reported the details to the appropriate authority.

5. Facebook

Date: April 2019

Impact: 533 million users

In April 2019, it was revealed that two datasets from Facebook apps had been exposed to the public internet. The information related to more than 530 million Facebook users and included phone numbers, account names, and Facebook IDs. However, two years later (April 2021) the data was posted for free, indicating new and real criminal intent surrounding the data. In fact, given the sheer number of phone numbers impacted and readily available on the dark web as a result of the incident, security researcher Troy Hunt added functionality to his HaveIBeenPwned (HIBP) breached credential checking site that would allow users to verify if their phone numbers had been included in the exposed dataset.

Id never planned to make phone numbers searchable, Hunt wrote in blog post. My position on this was that it didnt make sense for a bunch of reasons. The Facebook data changed all that. Theres over 500 million phone numbers but only a few million email addresses so >99% of people were getting a miss when they should have gotten a hit.

6. Marriott International (Starwood)

Date: September 2018

Impact: 500 million customers

Hotel Marriot International announced the exposure of sensitive details belonging to half a million Starwood guests following an attack on its systems in September 2018. In a statement published in November the same year, the hotel giant said: On September 8, 2018, Marriott received an alert from an internal security tool regarding an attempt to access the Starwood guest reservation database. Marriott quickly engaged leading security experts to help determine what occurred.

Marriott learned during the investigation that there had been unauthorized access to the Starwood network since 2014. Marriott recently discovered that an unauthorized party had copied and encrypted information and took steps towards removing it. On November 19, 2018, Marriott was able to decrypt the information and determined that the contents were from the Starwood guest reservation database, the statement added.

The data copied included guests names, mailing addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, passport numbers, Starwood Preferred Guest account information, dates of birth, gender, arrival and departure information, reservation dates, and communication preferences. For some, the information also included payment card numbers and expiration dates, though these were apparently encrypted.

Marriot carried out an investigation assisted by security experts following the breach and announced plans to phase out Starwood systems and accelerate security enhancements to its network. The company was eventually fined 18.4 million (reduced from 99 million) by UK data governing body the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) in 2020 for failing to keep customers personal data secure. An article by New York Times attributed the attack to a Chinese intelligence group seeking to gather data on US citizens.

7. Yahoo

Date: 2014

Impact: 500 million accounts

Making its second appearance in this list is Yahoo, which suffered an attack in 2014 separate to the one in 2013 cited above. On this occasion, state-sponsored actors stole data from 500 million accounts including names, email addresses, phone numbers, hashed passwords, and dates of birth. The company took initial remedial steps back in 2014, but it wasnt until 2016 that Yahoo went public with the details after a stolen database went on sale on the black market.

8. Adult Friend Finder

Date: October 2016

Impact: 412.2 million accounts

The adult-oriented social networking service The FriendFinder Network had 20 years worth of user data across six databases stolen by cyber-thieves in October 2016. Given the sensitive nature of the services offered by the company  which include casual hookup and adult content websites like Adult Friend Finder, Penthouse.com, and Stripshow.com  the breach of data from more than 414 million accounts including names, email addresses, and passwords had the potential to be particularly damming for victims. Whats more, the vast majority of the exposed passwords were hashed via the notoriously weak algorithm SHA-1, with an estimated 99% of them cracked by the time LeakedSource.com published its analysis of the data set on November 14, 2016.

9. MySpace

Date: 2013

Impact: 360 million user accounts

Though it had long stopped being the powerhouse that it once was, social media site MySpace hit the headlines in 2016 after 360 million user accounts were leaked onto both LeakedSource.com and put up for sale on dark web market The Real Deal with an asking price of 6 bitcoin (around $3,000 at the time).

According to the company, lost data included email addresses, passwords and usernames for a portion of accounts that were created prior to June 11, 2013, on the old Myspace platform. In order to protect our users, we have invalidated all user passwords for the affected accounts created prior to June 11, 2013, on the old Myspace platform. These users returning to Myspace will be prompted to authenticate their account and to reset their password by following instructions.

Its believed that the passwords were stored as SHA-1 hashes of the first 10 characters of the password converted to lowercase.

10. NetEase

Date: October 2015

Impact: 235 million user accounts

NetEase, a provider of mailbox services through the likes of 163.com and 126.com, reportedly suffered a breach in October 2015 when email addresses and plaintext passwords relating to 235 million accounts were being sold by dark web marketplace vendor DoubleFlag. NetEase has maintained that no data breach occurred and to this day HIBP states: Whilst there is evidence that the data itself is legitimate (multiple HIBP subscribers confirmed a password they use is in the data), due to the difficulty of emphatically verifying the Chinese breach it has been flagged as unverified.

11. Court Ventures (Experian)

Date: October 2013

Impact: 200 million personal records

Experian subsidiary Court Ventures fell victim in 2013 when a Vietnamese man tricked it into giving him access to a database containing 200 million personal records by posing as a private investigator from Singapore. The details of Hieu Minh Ngos exploits only came to light following his arrest for selling personal information of US residents (including credit card numbers and Social Security numbers) to cybercriminals across the world, something he had been doing since 2007. In March 2014, he pleaded guilty to multiple charges including identity fraud in the US District Court for the District of New Hampshire. The DoJ stated at the time that Ngo had made a total of $2 million from selling personal data.

12. LinkedIn

Date: June 2012

Impact: 165 million users

With its second appearance on this list is LinkedIn, this time in reference to a breach it suffered in 2012 when it announced that 6.5 million unassociated passwords (unsalted SHA-1 hashes) had been stolen by attackers and posted onto a Russian hacker forum. However, it wasnt until 2016 that the full extent of the incident was revealed. The same hacker selling MySpaces data was found to be offering the email addresses and passwords of around 165 million LinkedIn users for just 5 bitcoins (around $2,000 at the time). LinkedIn acknowledged that it had been made aware of the breach, and said it had reset the passwords of affected accounts.

13. Dubsmash

Date: December 2018

Impact: 162 million user accounts

In December 2018, New York-based video messaging service Dubsmash had 162 million email addresses, usernames, PBKDF2 password hashes, and other personal data such as dates of birth stolen, all of which was then put up for sale on the Dream Market dark web market the following December. The information was being sold as part of a collected dump also including the likes of MyFitnessPal (more on that below), MyHeritage (92 million), ShareThis, Armor Games, and dating app CoffeeMeetsBagel.

Dubsmash acknowledged the breach and sale of information had occurred and provided advice around password changing. However, it failed to state how the attackers got in or confirm how many users were affected.

14. Adobe

Date: October 2013

Impact: 153 million user records

In early October 2013, Adobe reported that hackers had stolen almost three million encrypted customer credit card records and login data for an undetermined number of user accounts. Days later, Adobe increased that estimate to include IDs and encrypted passwords for 38 million active users. Security blogger Brian Krebs then reported that a file posted just days earlier appears to include more than 150 million username and hashed password pairs taken from Adobe. Weeks of research showed that the hack had also exposed customer names, password, and debit and credit card information. An agreement in August 2015 called for Adobe to pay $1.1 million in legal fees and an undisclosed amount to users to settle claims of violating the Customer Records Act and unfair business practices. In November 2016, the amount paid to customers was reported to be $1 million.

15. My Fitness Pal

Date: February 2018

Impact: 150 million user accounts

In February 2018, diet and exercise app MyFitnessPal (owned by Under Armour) exposed around 150 million unique email addresses, IP addresses and login credentials such as usernames and passwords stored as SHA-1 and bcrypt hashes. The following year, the data appeared for sale on the dark web and more broadly. The company acknowledged the breach and said it took action to notify users of the incident. Once we became aware, we quickly took steps to determine the nature and scope of the issue. We are working with leading data security firms to assist in our investigation. We have also notified and are coordinating with law enforcement authorities, it stated.From his perch as Xeroxs largest individual investor, billionaire Carl Icahn pleaded with fellow shareholders to reject an agreement for Fujifilm Holdings to take over the Norwalk-based giant.

Xerox announced the $6.1 billion deal Jan. 31 after coming under pressure during the past year from Icahn and fellow investor Darwin Deason to undertake changes to increase the value of its shares. Xerox CEO Jeff Jacobson told investors late last month he did not speak with Icahn during negotiations with Fujifilm.

Since the merger announcement, Xerox shares are down 8 percent to about $30 as of Monday afternoon, with shares up 2 percent on the day.

In a joint letter with Deason to shareholders posted Monday, Icahn cited Fujifilm CEO Shigetaka Komori saying the deal will allow his company to take control of Xerox without spending a penny as quoted by the Nikkei Asian Review.

The structure reminds us of a timeless anecdote about two brothers who are bequeathed a vast estate. The older brother receives a ... controlling stake and an instruction to keep the interests of his younger brother in mind, Icahn and Deason stated in their joint letter to shareholders. Fast forward a few years, and youll find the older brother living in a mansion and driving a Rolls-Royce while the younger brother lives in a shack and drives an old beat-up hatchback.

A Xerox spokesman forwarded an official statement from Xerox that the company considered several other options in detail and concluded the Fuji Xerox combination as best for shareholders.

The transaction provides shareholders with the opportunity to benefit from ownership in a combined company that has enhanced growth prospects and a stronger financial profile to support future value creation, as well as an immediate substantial dividend payment, Xerox stated.

Icahn and Deason propose an alternative scenario for shareholders of freeing the company from the shackles of the existing Fuji Xerox joint venture, cutting costs and finding ways to commercialize breakthrough technologies from the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center, among other possibilities.

 Updated from an initial version to include Xerox statement.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulmanNo matter what field youre in, mentorship is one of the most important factors in your early career. A study of private sector mentorship shows that mentorship (having junior employees develop a professional relationship with more senior employees) is a crucial way to develop employees and build leadership skills. And when youre in a highly specialized, high-pressure field like medicine, that mentorship becomes even more valuable.

Med school will teach you what you need to know about the science and practice of medicine. It teaches you the theory, the ins and outs, the blood and guts. That part doesnt change, whether you have a mentor or not. What a medical mentor does is offer you the practical side of that knowledgesomeone whos been where you are now, showing you what its like to put your education into everyday use.

A mentor can help you with those transitional steps between med school and full-fledged practice, talking you through applying for jobs, preparing for residency interviews, dealing with the stress of the job, dealing with setbacks in med school and out in the field, and helping you find your specialty. A mentor may be a cheerleaderbut more importantly, he or she is someone who has your professional interests at heart and wants to help you build a successful medical career. That may involve some tough talk or recommendations that arent easy, but are necessary.

Why you need a mentor

No one transitions from school to career without loads of questions. What do I do next? Am I doing this too early/too late? What if I fail a class? What is it going to be like once I graduate? And sure, you can probably cobble that information together from the Internet. But dont discount the benefits that come from a face-to-face (or voice-to-voice) relationship with someone who already has that knowledge. School can feel isolating, especially as you start to make Big Deal career decisions, so having a go-to relationship where you can ask questions and get honest real-world feedback is extremely helpful.

As you make choices about your future career, you want to make sure youre making informed ones. Having a source of feedback and help can prevent you from making those decisions in a vacuum and then coming to regret them later. Having someone to say, Look, here are some hard lessons I learned when I chose to become an internist, is a major asset if youre thinking about going down that path, as well.

How to get started

If youre a med student, you can always try to match to a doctor in your field of interest to act as a mentor. But dont discount other health professionals who can provide that essential perspective. For example, nurses are in the trenches with doctors and are responsible for providing much of the direct patient care. They can provide precious insight into what its like to work with patients, what you can expect to see every day, and how to do basic and essential procedures. They also work closely with physicians and very likely have a solid perspective on what makes a good doctor vs. a not-great doctor. If youre looking for guidance on the practical aspects of the job, you want it from someone who does it (and does it well) day in and day out, regardless of the degree that person has.

If you want someone to help you with some of the more administrative aspects of being a doctor (like passing exams, the application process, interviews), then youll want someone whos been therea physician or an administrator. Keep in mind that youre not limited to just one mentor throughout your career; you can get super-valuable help from different people on different career aspects.

Your mentor can be someone you shadow in the workplace, but dont feel confined to that box or to your own residency program, if youve already started one. Your mentor could be someone you consult on the phone or via email/chat/FaceTime/your preferred digital platform.

If youre interested in finding a mentor and role model, theres no time like med school to get that started. Thats not to say that you cant find one later when youre already settled in a residency or other job and a great mentoring opportunity presents itself. But like just about all career planning, its best to start as early as you can. Things arent going to get any easier as you prepare to graduate, and this special kind of networking is best done when you have time to develop a relationship with your mentor.

How to find the right mentor

Like any kind of networking, the place to start is thinking about who you know already. You can ask your faculty advisor if they know anyone who might be a good fit for the kind of mentor you need. Theres also good old online research, if youre looking for a very specific type of mentor. And if youre feeling truly stuck on how to get the mentor-mentee process underway, the American College of Physicians (ACP) has a mentor matchmaking database that you can register to use.

Know what you want in a mentor. Do you want someone with a particular research interest? Someone with specific technical expertise? Do you want to know what the everyday life is like for a thoracic surgeon? Before you start reaching out, know what you want to get out of the relationship.

Make sure youre asking the right questions. Think of it like an interview for your mentor (though obviously, be respectful of their authority in the field and the time theyre taking to speak with you). But in the course of conversation (or in email), feel free to ask them questions like how they chose their specialty, what brought them to medicine, what their own goals were when they were in your position, and what their biggest professional challenges have been. Come up with a list of questions in advance before you talk to your potential mentor.

Keep an open mind. You may find that a potential mentor is great at talking you through exam prep, but not great at helping you find job openings. Or she can offer brilliant insight on research, but not necessarily the day-to-day questions you have. Theres no reason you cant build relationships with different mentors for different parts of your careerand again, dont forget to consider people who might be nurses, administrators, or other non-physicians who could bring different perspectives to your career.

Once youve found the mentor (or mentors) of your professional dreams, make sure you take care to keep the relationship goingeven after youre no longer a student/newbie. You never know when those professional connections will come in handy. And then the day may come when you find yourself ready to take on a mentee of your own.

The post What you need to know about medical student mentors appeared first on TheJobNetwork.WATERBURY  A judge has refused to throw out a lawsuit against the city of Bridgeport by a former assistant police chief who claims the city owes him $1 million.

Superior Court Judge Salvatore Agati denied a motion to strike the claims of James Nardozzi on the grounds of legal insufficiency.

The court finds that sufficient facts have been alleged to support the causes of action for each of the counts being challenged, the judge ruled.

Nardozzi was fired from his $123,000 job in January 2015 by Mayor Joe Ganim under a reorganization of the Bridgeport Police Department that saw then-Chief Joseph Gaudett retire and Armando Perez take his place as the city's top cop.

Nardozzi sued the city contending he was wrongfully terminated and that the city breached his contract.

"Mr. Nardozzi is demanding to remain on the city payroll collecting his full salary, until the end of his employment contract; maintain health and other benefits provided by the city; and at the expiration of his contract, be allowed to retire and collect a pension per the terms of his employment contract, his lawyer, Eric Brown stated at the time the suit was filed.

However, the city claims that Nardozzi was an employee at will and could be fired as a result of a reorganization.BRIDGEPORT  Getting a pair of sloths to mate isnt a job for the impatient.

For nearly two weeks, Jabba, the resident bachelor two-toed sloth at Connecticuts Beardsley Zoo, has been sharing a cage in the zoos Animal Health Care Center with Hope, a female brought in to light Jabbas fire. As one might imagine from sloths, its been going slowly.

Tuesday afternoon, Hope was snuggled up in a crate in the enclosure, and Jabba was lounging against a branch on the other side of the cage. It didnt look too cozy, considering it was the day before Valentines Day, but this has been the norm thus far, said zoo director Gregg Dancho.

Every time Ive gone in here to look at them, Hope is over here and Jabbas over there, he said. We hope theyre just being coy.

The sloth courtship is one of two love matches the zoo is encouraging. The facility also acquired 4-year-old Meri as a prospective mate for the zoos red panda, Rochan. Red pandas are not true pandas, but a unique species whose name is derived from a Nepalese word, ponya, meaning eater of bamboo.

Right now, Meri is playing Miss Lonelyhearts, having just finished up her quarantine period and waiting for her intended to join her at the care center.

Neither Hope nor Meri is on display at the zoo, but they are expected to make their public debut in a few weeks. The goal of all this woo at the zoo is breeding the animals. Red pandas are endangered species and, though two-toed sloths arent as endangered, anything that lives in the rain forest could have a problem, Dancho said.

Two-toed sloths are found in Central and South America and typically live in trees in rainforests, as well as deciduous forests. The two-toed sloth is larger and (relatively) faster than its cousin, the three-toed sloth.

Hope once lived in Connecticut before transferring temporarily to John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Mich. With her big eyes, button nose, and chestnut-hued fur, she is a catch for the silver-furred Jabba  though Dancho said both are fairly old. Its an autumn romance, he said.

Though the two arent exactly re-enacting 50 Shades of Grey, Dancho said theyll likely be more active at night when there are fewer prying eyes.

Hope springs eternal, he said.Twenty three towns are getting more than $6 million to preserve open space totaling more than 2,000 acres, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced on Monday.

The towns receiving the money under the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protections Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition program, include Stratford, Weston, North Haven, Sherman, Madison, Cornwall and Colebrook.

Connecticuts tradition of preserving open space has helped define our landscape and preserve its important natural resources and geographical beauty, Malloy said in a statement. These grants continue our open space preservation legacy and will increase the availability of open space for our residents across our state.

The funding is aimed at assisting local governments, water companies and land trusts, while requiring local commitments to complete the protection of properties for conservation and recreation.

In Colebrook, $81,000 will be used to help the Colebrook Land Conservancy, Inc. purchase 87 acres of ridge, bottomland and headwater stream habitats on Deer Hill.

In Cornwall, the Cornwall Conservation Trust, Inc. will get $180,000 to help buy 72 acres of farmland called Matland Tarradiddle, at 407 Sharon Goshen Turnpike that is part of the Housatonic River Greenway.

The South Central Regional Water Authority gets $184,800 to help acquire 44 acres in Madison in the Hammonasset River Watershed, located on the Luft property, 347 County Road.

The town of North Haven was awarded more than $200,000 to buy nearly 30 acres, including the ruins of a former farm and its orchard, with a wetland at 182 Kings Highway.

In Sherman, the Naromi Land Trust, Inc, receives $76,500 for the purchase of undeveloped forest land called the Eastman parcel, which abuts land trust holdings and is near the Appalachian Trail.

The town of Stratford will be able to acquire two separate parcels, including land in Shelton, totaling about 19 acres, to add to the 400-acre Roosevelt Forest. The grant of more than $261,000 will be used to buy undeveloped woodlots and wetlands at 225 Peters Lane.

In Weston, the Aspetuck Land Trust, Inc. will buy more than 38 acres of woodland near its 81-acre Honey Hill Preserve. The $165,500 award will help purchase the Belknap Property on Wampum Hill Road to create trail links and preserve habitat.

Since 1998, more than $125 million has been sent to 137 towns and cities to assist in the preservation of more than 33,300 acres, said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee. The states goal is to protect 673,210 acres of land by 2023, or 21 percent of state land.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCTBridgeport is now going to have a third Democratic primary election for two city council seats representing the North End.

The historical wheeling, dealing, scheming, thumb on the scale scamming by Bridgeports Democratic Town Committee raves on, in recent months taking up the time of the Connecticut judicial system up to and including  incredibly  the Connecticut Supreme Court.

So, on April 10, this tedious fiasco will move into Act III with another election, this one cleared for action by no less than the Supreme Court..

Also on the incredible scale, according to news reports, provisions are in place this time for Bridgeport police officers to pick up absentee ballots.

You say wha?

Protect and serve, sure; Get involved in the absentee ballot process in Bridgeport?

State law has all sorts of provisions for the handling of absentee ballots. In Bridgeport, of course, rules are made to be broken.

As in many areas of law enforcement, there are those who say dont keep piling on new laws, just enforce the laws we already have.

Police officers, who in Bridgeport already have one of the toughest jobs one can imagine, are now going to have to get involved in checking the identifications of people who want absentee ballots?

Bridgeport has come to this spot after, in the first election for these two seats, a single miracle ballot appeared to tip the election in favor of the organization.

The citys town clerk, after the matter first went to Superior Court, asserted his fifth amendment protection against self-incrimination.

Sweet!

In Bridgeport, ballots have always had a way of popping up in the most timely of fashions. Here a ballot, there are ballot, everywhere a ballot ballot.

In the second election, numerous ballots arrived supposedly through the mail. Superior Court Judge Barbara Bellis found it curious that many of them bore no postmark.

(She probably was unaware of the special franking arrangement the Democratic Town Committee established decades ago that lets absentee ballots just sort of lollygag their way through the delivery system.)

It was in this second election that it was made clear that Democratic Town Chairman Mario Testa, the Bill Belichick of local electioneering (Every election  no matter how big, how small, how medium  is the Super Bowl.) had dispatched an on-duty police officer to pick up ballots at certain addresses in the voting precinct.

Given the complexities of maintaining order in Connecticuts most populous city, its understandable that the city would have three City Halls: the longstanding one at 45 Lyon Terrace; the Margaret E. Morton Government Center at 999 Broad Street, and Testos Pizzeria and Restaurant, 1023 Brooklawn Avenue, Fairfield.

Its small wonder that the powers in Hartford over the decades have looked at the states most populous city as a place not to be taken too seriously.

There were, of course, periods during which the delegation itself, castoffs from the Gang that Couldnt Shoot Straight, were walking advertisements for the dysfunction of the city and its political machinery.

That has, by and large, with a few notable exceptions, improved dramatically.

Anyway, stay tuned. The third installment of the saga is scheduled for April 10.

Michael J.Daly is editor of the editorial page of the Bonnecticut Post. Email: mdaly@ctpost.com.WASHINGTON - The White House is proposing a $19.9 billion budget for NASA, a nearly $400 million increase over the current budget as part of a strategy to further fuel entrepreneurial endeavors and take the first steps to return to the moon.

But its 2019 budget proposal, released Monday, did not outline a concrete plan or timeline to travel to the lunar surface, which the Trump administration has said is one of its top priorities for NASA. The spending plan also proposed ending funding for the International Space Station after 2024, and privatizing the orbiting laboratory to free up funds for deep space exploration.

In a statement to The Washington Post, Scott Pace, the executive secretary of the reconstituted National Space Council, said the administration plans to work with industry and international partners to find away to transition the station into private hands.

"With seven years with which to plan a transition to a different operational model, the United States will again demonstrate our role as the indispensable spacefaring nation," Pace said. "The transition of low Earth orbit from an environment dominated by the government to one that flourishes with commercial, international, and government partnerships is not only possible, but necessary for continued U.S. leadership."

An official with the European Space Agency, a partner on the space station, said he hadn't yet seen the proposal so couldn't comment. Some officials said it could be tricky for the United States to get out of the station's international treaties. Another roadblock is going to be Congress, where key members have already said they would not allow support for the station to be terminated before its useful life is over.

"The administration's budget for NASA is a nonstarter," U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., said in a statement. "Turning off the lights and walking away from our sole outpost in space at a time when we're pushing the frontiers of exploration makes no sense."

The White House isn't planning on abandoning the station outright, and is looking to keep a robust presence in low Earth orbit in partnership with industry and other countries, according to an administration official not authorized to speak publicly about the plan. The budget calls for $150 million for a program to help industry create space habitats that could be used in place of the space station, according to the budget request released Monday.

The official said the administration is trying to avoid the problem that plagued the space shuttle retirement. When the shuttle was retired in 2011, NASA had no way of flying its astronauts to the space station, and has had to rely on Russia for rides to space. SpaceX and Boeing are now under contract from NASA to build spacecraft capable of flying humans, but those first flights won't come until later this year or next, leaving the U.S. government without the ability to fly people for at least seven years.

"The notion that we would walk away from LEO [or low Earth orbit] and the space station is not accurate," the official said. "We know the space station is going to eventually end. Rather than putting ourselves in the situation with shuttle, where we had no way to get to LEO, we want to start planning for that transition now."

The United States' international partners on the station "are one of the most important pieces of the station and how it functions," the official said. "We believe that opening up options and different models also means opening up opportunities for additional partners and additional ways to expand our international involvement in low Earth orbit. Imagine a scenario where a company says we have a business plan, we'd like to partner with the Japanese government and the Europeans to do these types of experiments."

The official said that under commercial control, NASA would become another customer, so that instead of owning the building, we would rent a couple of floors," the person said.

In its budget document, the White House said it plans to partner with industry "to land robotic missions on the surface of the moon in the next few years, paving the way for a return of U.S. astronauts - this time not just to visit, but to lay the foundation for further journeys of exploration and the expansion of the U.S. economy into space."

The budget proposal "really reflects the administration's confidence that America will lead the way back to the moon and take that next giant leap," NASA acting administrator Robert Lightfoot said in a speech Monday at the Marshall Spaceflight Center in Alabama.

Nelson, the U.S. senator, expressed concern about plans beyond the moon.

"If we're ever going to get to Mars with humans on board and return them safely, then we need a larger funding increase for NASA," he said.

The proposed budget also calls for the termination of the $100 million Office of Education at NASA "redirecting those funds to NASA's core mission of exploration." And while it supports the development of the $8.8 billion James Webb telescope, the budget calls for the termination of the WFIRST space telescope, which NASA planned to help scientists better understand dark matter and dark energy.

The budget would provide $54.2 million for public-private partnerships to help develop manufacturing technologies in space, such as 3-D printing.It takes a lot of nerve for Governor Malloy and his legislative allies to propose tolls, a higher gas tax, and a tire tax. Over the last seven years, theyve stuck us with the two biggest tax increases in state history; committed us to an extravagant government union agreement that practically guarantees budget shortfalls through 2027, and displayed wanton disregard for free enterprise that manifests in overregulation, harassment of business owners, and taking taxpayers for granted. Then they want us to believe that our state economy isnt growing because of our roads  and that only tolls can fix them!

Having already imposed nearly every other kind of tax, perhaps its no wonder that the big spenders in our state are salivating over tolls. Although in theory, user fees can make more sense than other kinds of taxes, right here, right now, tolls should be an absolute non-starter.

Heres why. For starters, in Connecticut, tolls would simply be a tax that would fall hardest on our working class. Unlike other states, because of an agreement with the federal government, Connecticut cant install border tolls on our existing highways without losing federal transportation dollars. Instead, the state would re-install congestion tolling along the highways we use to commute to work every day. By the governors own estimates, Connecticuts people would pay 70 percent of the collected revenues.

That means costs would fall most heavily on those who commute the farthest to work  which makes congestion-style tolling a particularly regressive form of taxation. Indeed, a Brookings Institute study found that between 2000 and 2012, proximity to employment fell more for the poor and minorities than for others. It makes a twisted kind of sense: after all, it is far easier for hedge-fund moguls to work from home (or in an expensive town nearby) than for the lower-paid employees in the industries that serve them.

And it wouldnt be cheap. According to an I-95 congestion tolling study by the Department of Transportation, a full-length, one-way trip between New Haven and New York during peak hours would cost a commuter $6, and the same trip on the Merritt Parkway would be $5. Over a month of workdays, that could add $240 to a working persons monthly budget  a considerable expense.

But those are just some of the practical concerns. More generally: How does the governor and his allies justify asking for even one cent more of our money when they have been such poor stewards of all that weve already given them?

Connecticut has the sixth highest gas tax in the nation  but our state ranks 47th in terms of cost effectiveness for its transportation spending. Connecticut has spent a total of $477,875 per mile of road; the national average is only $160,997 per mile. Whats more, our administrative costs for transportation are the highest in the country  at a whopping $83,282 per mile of road.

Time after time, the administration has chosen to build expensive new projects rather than making the less exciting  but more responsible  decision to go ahead with critical infrastructure repairs. The governor pushed for a rail line from Hartford to Springfield, Massachusetts. At an eye-watering $1 billion to construct and $27 million to operate each year, its projected to carry fewer than 3,500 passengers per day (with fares covering only 10 percent of the operating costs). Likewise, the CTfastrak bus line cost $567 million to construct and consumes $17.5 million more in yearly operating expenses than original cost estimates  despite buses running unoccupied at taxpayer expense. In the meantime, the estimated 150,000 daily commuters on Metro-North endure growing delays and deteriorating conditions.

Heres the truth: Connecticut has not suffered for lack of transportation money. Rather, the governor (like his predecessors) and the legislature have raided the Special Transportation Fund that could have paid for critical infrastructure. Theyve used the money, instead, to perpetuate a status quo that doesnt work for the vast majority of Connecticuts people  state employees who are paid more than any other state workers in the nation, when public and private sector compensation are compared.

And yet the governor and his allies demand more of our money  in the form of tolls, and a higher gas tax, and a new tire tax without so much as offering a single proposal to address the broken system that drives these spiraling costs. Thats some nerve, all right.

Its time to push back. Without serious, meaningful reforms of the structural problems that are driving our state over the fiscal precipice, Connecticuts people must slap away the grasping hands of their cash-hungry politicians and tell them: Not one cent more.

Carol Platt Liebau is president of the Connecticut-based Yankee Institute for Public Policy.A day in the life. Its 9:30 on a Friday morning in the State Capitol complex.

Your tax money is hard at work ... somewhere. Not so much in the comfy, padded seats around the big committee tables, but maybe in the corners of the various meeting rooms, where nonpartisan lawyers and financial experts are there to spin the dreams of $32,000-a-year House and $33,000-a-year Senate members (plus mileage in what is now, officially, a never-ending, part-time job) into enough legalese and arithmetic to prove  in weeks or months  that the Earth is flat, when their legislation falls off the edge, into the safety of oblivion.

Taking up the bulk of the seats in the rooms are the lobbyists who make the really big bucks protecting their various industries and interests from the lawmakers, with whom they pretend to be friendly.

In the smaller meeting rooms, the representatives and senators are seated mostly with their respective teams. Democrats line up to the right of their committee chairmen and ranking members. Republicans, coincidentally if not ironically, are on the left of their leaders, facing the audience. Independents? Oh no. As accepting as the state campaign-finance laws are professed to be, they were written by and for the two parties.

In the big hearing rooms, like 2-C in the Legislative Office Building, the general party seating alignments are slightly more scattershot, but its not too likely that a frothing neo-con will be perched next to the few Democrats who self-identify as progressives, who want more than the so-called neo-liberal status quo.

Its a couple days after Gov. Dan Malloys valedictory address, a legacy-builder, with a plan to insulate Connecticut from the tax ravages of the current regime in Washington. His annual appearance before a joint session of the House and Senate was the center of a stage set for political theater, with anyone with a desire to run for governor showing up, using the scene as a backdrop for low-rent production values, soon to be seen on the Facebook ads that will trail you until at least the conventions in May.

In Room 2-A, the Environment Committee is getting off the ground at 10, raising eight bills for eventual public hearings. Sen. Craig Miner, R-Litchfield, co-chairman of the panel, notes that the seats are jammed with lobbyists and observers, feigning surprise at the size of the crowd for an agenda that includes An Act Establishing a Save Our Lakes Number Plate to Combat Aquatic Invasive Plants. Time to mention that in recent years, cash-strapped lawmakers have raided those special funds for operating revenue.

I am excited to work with people on this committee, Miner says. I think we do work very well together. We have kind of a broad background and that helps us have more in-depth conversations.

Leaders of the various committees meet behind the scenes and horse trade over which bills may get public hearings, and with the second year of the 18-18 split in the Senate, GOP lawmakers have more of a say.

Over in 2-C, Ben Barnes, the governors budget guru, is having about as much fun as a sleep-deprived, numbers guy can have in this partisan, election year atmosphere. By 10:15, only about half of the 52 members of the committee are in the room. But by Friday, the shelf life of the governors budget is just about up. Barnes spends the morning explaining the fruit equivalent of brown bananas. He touts an average spending increase of 2.3 percent since Malloy took office in 2010.

Barnes tells the committee that Malloys 2018-19 budget, which would take effect on July 1, would leave a projected $844-million budget deficit, about half of what the current bipartisan budget will create in 2020; and $1.9 billion by the 2022 fiscal year.

At 11, Rep. Jonathan Steinberg, D-Westport, is gaveling in the Public Health Committee, which raises 24 concepts for hearings, ranging from the control of opioids to expanding the Clean Indoor Air Act.

At noon, the Government Administration & Elections Committee holds an informational hearing on the Citizens Election Program, the public financing that separates Connecticut from so many states where special interests run roughshod over their legislatures. Id like to say its a model for the nation, but unfortunately, in my opinion, it is under attack, says Sen. Mae Flexer, D-Killingly.

A few minutes later, Sen. Michael McLachlan, R-Danbury, another co-chairman, joins the group, having watched the hearing while wolfing down lunch in his office. He has to leave soon because as vice chairman of the Judiciary Committee, he will screen bills there with fellow leaders.

This is around the same time that union leaders from throughout the state make their cases to the appointed Commission on Fiscal Stability and Economic Growth. We should have an ongoing study of Connecticuts tax system, says Dan Livingston, chief negotiator for the State Employee Bargaining Agent Coalition. You know: How do we make it more efficient, more fair. Bring in more families. We dont do that. We have these episodic examinations that are mostly political theater.

End of week one.

Ken Dixon can be reached at 860-549-4670 or at kdixon@ctpost.com. Visit him at twitter.com/KenDixonCT and on Facebook at kendixonct.hearst.Most people wish they were better with money. It doesnt matter if you need to make more or spend less. Chances are, you feel like youve tried everything and gotten nowhere.

Heres a secret: It doesnt matter how many times you try to stick to a budget or promise to give up your afternoon Starbucks run. The problem isnt your habits. Its your head.

Our beliefs about money were developed when we were very young, taught to us by our parents and our culture. According to an article in Psychology Today by Dr. Matt James, many people have bought into negative cultural myths about money that are holding them back. He wrote that if you believe the following statements about money, you might be one of those people.

It takes money to make money The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Money is the root of all evil. My financial success depends on the job market and the economy. Life is hard. Wealthy people are selfish penny-pinchers. Its a dog eat dog world out there, survival of the fittest. To climb the ladder of success, you have to step on others along the way. You have to be in certain professions to make a lot of money. Only a few people (musicians, athletes, bloggers, actors, etc.) ever make it.



Dr. James has extensively interviewed successful, wealthy people about their attitudes toward money. He found their beliefs to be very different from most people. They include:

The world is abundant. The world wants me to prosper. All prosperity begins with belief. Money is energy and will appear as you really feel about it. Money demands attention.



These successful people didnt believe money had anything to do with the economy, their profession or the need to sacrifice their principles.

If you have tried to change your financial habits and failed, thats a sign you subconsciously believe you cant be successful, Dr. James wrote. First you have to let go of the negative emotions and beliefs Iike the ones listed above. Then, after youve changed the way you think about money, set goals and take action to achieve them.

Once you change your mind about money, your fortune will change too.Investigations into Northeast nursing homes ongoing as COVID deaths rise

State and federal investigations are ongoing into COVID-19 outbreaks at nursing homes in NY, NJ and PA. What we know about push for accountability.The Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror attack on an Indian Army station and family quarters in Sunjuwan, Jammu, killing five soldiers and one civilian, will meet a "befitting reply", said home minister Rajnath Singh.

But will it?

Retaliatory fire along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB) has not stopped the Pakistani Army from firing mortar shells and even anti-tank missiles at Indian Army camps and civilian homes near the border. It hasn't deterred the Pakistani Army from infiltrating JeM and LeT terrorists into the Valley and now into Jammu to attack the Indian Army and its families.

Since the surgical strike on Pakistani terror launch pads on September 29, 2016, ceasefire violations by the Pakistani Army have more than trebled. Terror attacks too have spiked. Infuriated by the international humiliation it suffered as a result of the clinical surgical strike by Indian special forces, which killed dozens of Pakistani soldiers, the Generals in Rawalpindi have adopted an aggressive dual strategy. The Pakistani Army and Rangers have greatly increased the frequency and intensity of shelling along the LoC. They have also doubled the number of LeT and JeM terrorists infiltrating into the Kashmir Valley.

The Indian Army, CRPF and J&K police have hunted down these terrorists in increasing numbers. But for Pakistan, dead terrorists are a cheap commodity. The terrorists' impoverished families are compensated generously with money and land. Newly indoctrinated youth in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) are quickly trained and dispatched across the border into India to strike pre-determined targets. Pakistan's undergraduate school of terrorism, the largest in the world, ticks along smoothly.

The only losses that hurt the Pakistani Army are casualties among its soldiers, Rangers and members of its Border Action Team (BAT) who specialise in beheading and mutilating their victims. That is why the surgical strike hurt Pakistan. Regular Pakistani soldiers were caught napping and killed in numbers. The retribution has been swift and sustained.

Was the surgical strike therefore a mistake? Clearly not. What has been a mistake is not following up the surgical strike with either one of these three options:

Option 1

India could have used the brief lull in hostilities in late 2016 after the surgical strike to initiate a structured dialogue that was suspended after the Pathankot attack in January 2016. The peace lobbies in both countries would have welcomed this move. So would the Pakistani government. The Pakistani Army would have approved it as well: it fits well into its well-established strategy of talks and terrorism going on together.

Talking to India gives Pakistan a cover of respectability. Terrorism meanwhile allows the Pakistani Army to maintain its primacy in Pakistan's fractured polity. It justifies its bloated defence budget. A permanent enemy, India, is necessary for the raison d'etre of a large, well-funded Pakistani Army.

But the Generals in Rawalpindi also want talks with India that are pre-programmed to periodically fail before being revived again due to pressure from India's influential peace-at-all-costs cabal. In short, an interrupted and interruptible dialogue, the precise reverse of the formulation by India's peace lobby.

Option 2

India's second option after the surgical strike is the one it has currently adopted: robust retaliation to Pakistan's terror attacks and ceasefire violations along the LoC and IB. The failure of this strategy should have become clear to the Indian government after practising it for nearly 18 months, following the surgical strike, with poor results. Retaliation fits into Pakistan's playbook. Low-intensity conflict allows it to attack the Indian Army with relatively light losses to its own forces.

Option 3

Between war and ad hoc retaliation of the kind that Rajnath Singh promises periodically ("befitting reply"), lies a large unexplored space. India already faces what in effect is an undeclared war by Pakistan. Over 80 Indian soldiers have been lost to Pakistani firing and terror attacks over the past 18 months.

Retaliation is not an answer to an undeclared war. To impose punitive costs on Pakistan and achieve effective deterrence to the unending cycle of violence, four steps are necessary.

One, downgrade diplomatic ties to consular level. There is no need to retain a full-fledged Pakistani high commission in New Delhi packed with ISI agents who subvert Indian politicians, bureaucrats, journalists, retired armed forces officers, activists and NGOs. This will send a message to the rest of the world that India means business.

Two, cut trade links with Pakistan, revoke its most favoured nation (MFN) status and stop the archaic ceremonies at Wagah and other border crossings. No one takes a nation seriously which maintains such fraternal and trade ties with a terrorist state.

Three, build that long-promised high-tech electric fence with sensors around every key army camp perimeter. The fence was promised two years ago after the Pathankot attack. Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman finally announced last week that a Rs 1,487-crore budget for building the 9-foot-high electric fence has been approved. It will take 10 months to complete but will greatly enhance perimeter security around Army camps.

Four, surgical strikes across the LoC should be the norm, not the exception. In an undeclared war in which the Indian Army has lost scores of soldiers to Pakistani terror attacks and shelling, deploying special forces and air assets to destroy Pakistani Army positions that launch terrorists into India will not escalate matters. Remember: India too has nuclear weapons. Pakistan's nuclear bluff is just that - bluff.

In sum: Option 1 (retaliation) hasn't worked. Option 2 (talks) won't work - that's what Rawalpindi craves: talks and terror hand in hand for respectability and bloated defence funding respectively. Option 3 is the only real option left against a terror state that continues to wage an undeclared war on India.

Also read: Mohan Bhagwat must explain why he has lost faith in Indian ArmyJPMorgan Chase & Co. is a financial holding company. It provides financial and investment banking services. The firm offers a range of investment banking products and services in all capital markets, including advising on corporate strategy and structure, capital raising in equity and debt markets, risk management, market making in cash securities and derivative instruments, and brokerage and research. It operates through the following segments: Consumer and Community Banking, Corporate and Investment Bank, Commercial Banking, and Asset and Wealth Management. The Consumer and Community Banking segment serves consumers and businesses through personal service at bank branches and through automated teller machine, online, mobile, and telephone banking. The Corporate and Investment Bank segment offers a suite of investment banking, market-making, prime brokerage, and treasury and securities products and services to a global client base of corporations, investors, financial institutions, government and municipal entities. The Commercial Banking segment delivers services to U.S. and its multinational clients, including corporations, municipalities, financial institutions, and non profit

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Luxembourg), CCRx Holdings LLC, CCRx of North Carolina LLC, CHP Acquisition LLC, CP Acquisition LLC, CVS 2948 Henderson L.L.C., CVS 3268 Gilbert L.L.C., CVS 3745 Peoria L.L.C., CVS AL Distribution L.L.C., CVS AOC Corporation, CVS AOC Services L.L.C., CVS Albany L.L.C., CVS Bellmore Avenue L.L.C., CVS Care Concierge LLC, CVS Caremark Advanced Technology Pharmacy L.L.C., CVS Caremark Indemnity Ltd., CVS Caremark Part D Services L.L.C., CVS Caremark TN SUTA LLC, CVS Foreign Inc., CVS Gilbert 3272 L.L.C., CVS Health Solutions LLC, CVS Indiana L.L.C., CVS International L.L.C., CVS Kidney Care Advanced Technologies LLC, CVS Kidney Care Health Services LLC, CVS Kidney Care Home Dialysis LLC, CVS Kidney Care LLC, CVS Manchester NH L.L.C., CVS Media Exchange LLC, CVS Michigan L.L.C., CVS Orlando FL Distribution L.L.C., CVS PA Distribution L.L.C., CVS PR Center Inc., CVS Pharmacy Inc., CVS RS Arizona L.L.C., CVS Rx Services Inc., CVS SC Distribution L.L.C., CVS State Capital L.L.C., CVS TN Distribution L.L.C., CVS Transportation L.L.C., CVS Vero FL Distribution L.L.C., Campos Medical Pharmacy LLC, Canal Place LLC, Care Pharmaceutical Services LP, CareCenter Pharmacy L.L.C., Carefree Insurance Services Inc., Caremark Arizona Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Arizona Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark California Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Florida Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Florida Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Hawaii Mail Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Hawaii Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark IPA L.L.C., Caremark Illinois Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Illinois Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Irving Resource Center LLC, Caremark Kansas Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark L.L.C., Caremark Logistics LLC, Caremark Louisiana Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Maryland Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Massachusetts Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Michigan Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Minnesota Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark New Jersey Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark North Carolina Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Ohio Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Pennsylvania Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark PhC L.L.C., Caremark Puerto Rico L.L.C., Caremark Puerto Rico Specialty Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Redlands Pharmacy L.L.C., Caremark Repack LLC, Caremark Rx L.L.C., Caremark Tennessee Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Texas Mail Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Texas Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Caremark Ulysses Holding Corp., Caremark Washington Specialty Pharmacy LLC, CaremarkPCS Alabama Mail Pharmacy LLC, CaremarkPCS Health L.L.C., CaremarkPCS L.L.C., Central Rx Services LLC, Claims Administration Corp., Cofinity Inc., Compscript LLC, Connecticut CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Continental Life Insurance Company of Brentwood Tennessee, Continuing Care Rx LLC, Coram Alternate Site Services Inc., Coram Clinical Trials Inc., Coram Healthcare Corporation of Alabama, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Florida, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Greater D.C., Coram Healthcare Corporation of Greater New York, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Indiana, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Massachusetts, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Mississippi, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Nevada, Coram Healthcare Corporation of North Texas, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Northern California, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Southern California, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Southern Florida, Coram Healthcare Corporation of Utah, Coram LLC, Coram Rx LLC, Coram Specialty Infusion, Coram Specialty Infusion Services L.L.C., Coventry Consumer Advantage Inc., Coventry Health Care National Accounts Inc., Coventry Health Care National Network Inc., Coventry Health Care Workers Compensation Inc., Coventry Health Care of Illinois Inc., Coventry Health Care of Kansas Inc., Coventry Health Care of Missouri Inc., Coventry Health Care of Nebraska Inc., Coventry Health Care of Virginia Inc., Coventry Health Care of West Virginia Inc., Coventry Health Plan of Florida Inc., Coventry Health and Life Insurance Company, Coventry HealthCare Management Corporation, Coventry Prescription Management Services Inc., Coventry Rehabilitation Services Inc., Coventry Transplant Network Inc., D & R Pharmaceutical Services LLC, D.A.W. 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INC., Echo Merger Sub Inc., Eckerd Corporation of Florida Inc., Employee Assistance Services LLC, Enloe Drugs LLC, Enterprise Patient Safety Organization LLC, EntrustRX, Evergreen Pharmaceutical LLC, Evergreen Pharmaceutical of California Inc., Express Pharmacy Services of PA L.L.C., FOCUS HealthCare Management Inc., First Health Group Corp., First Health Life & Health Insurance Company, First Script Network Services Inc., Florida Health Plan Administrators LLC, Garfield Beach CVS L.L.C., Generation Health L.L.C., Geneva Woods Health Services LLC, Geneva Woods LTC Pharmacy LLC, Geneva Woods Management LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Alaska LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Washington LLC, Geneva Woods Pharmacy Wyoming LLC, Geneva Woods Retail Pharmacy LLC, Georgia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., German Dobson CVS L.L.C., Goodhealth Worldwide (Asia) Limited, Goodhealth Worldwide (Global) Limited, Goodyear CVS L.L.C., Grand St. Paul CVS L.L.C., Grandview Pharmacy LLC, Group Dental Service Inc., Group Dental Service of Maryland Inc., Health Care Management Co. Ltd., Health Data & Management Solutions Inc., Health Re Inc., Health and Human Resource Center Inc., HealthAssuance Pennsylvania Inc., Healthagen LLC, Highland Park CVS L.L.C., Holiday CVS L.L.C., Home Care Pharmacy LLC, Home Pharmacy Services LLC, Hook-SupeRx L.L.C., Horizon Behavioral Services LLC, Idaho CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., IlliniCare Health, Indian Health Organisation Private Limited, Innovation Health Holdings LLC, Innovation Health Insurance Company, Innovation Health Plan Inc., Interlock Pharmacy Systems LLC, Iowa CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., JHC Acquisition LLC, Kansas CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Kentucky CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., LCPS Acquisition LLC, Langsam Health Services LLC, Lo-Med Prescription Services LLC, Lobos Acquisition LLC, Longs Drug Stores, Longs Drug Stores California L.L.C., Louisiana CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., MHHP Acquisition Company LLC, MHNet Life and Health Insurance Company, MHNet Specialty Services LLC, MHNet of Florida Inc., Managed Care Coordinators Inc., Managed Healthcare LLC, Martin Health Services LLC, Maryland CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Med World Acquisition Corp., Medical Arts Health Care LLC, Medical Examinations of New York P.C., Melville Realty Company Inc., MemberHealth LLC, Mental Health Associates Inc., Mental Health Network of New York IPA Inc., Meritain Health Inc., Merwin Long Term Care LLC, MetraComp Inc., Minor Health Enterprise Co Ltd., MinuteClinic, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Alabama L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Arizona LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Florida LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Georgia LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Hawaii L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Illinois LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Kentucky L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Louisiana L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Maine L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Maryland LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Massachusetts LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Nebraska L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of New Hampshire L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of New Mexico L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Ohio LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Oklahoma LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Oregon LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Pennsylvania LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Rhode Island LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of South Carolina L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Texas LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Utah L.L.C., MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Virginia LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Washington LLC, MinuteClinic Diagnostic of Wisconsin L.L.C., MinuteClinic L.L.C., MinuteClinic Online Diagnostic Services LLC, MinuteClinic Physician Practice of Texas, MinuteClinic Telehealth Services LLC, Mississippi CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Missouri CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Montana CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., NCS Healthcare LLC, NCS Healthcare of Illinois LLC, NCS Healthcare of Iowa LLC, NCS Healthcare of Kansas LLC, NCS Healthcare of Kentucky Inc. (Oh, NCS Healthcare of Montana LLC, NCS Healthcare of New Mexico LLC, NCS Healthcare of Ohio LLC, NCS Healthcare of South Carolina LLC, NCS Healthcare of Tennessee LLC, NCS Healthcare of Wisconsin LLC, NIV Acquisition LLC, Navarro Discount Pharmacy, Nebraska CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., NeighborCare Holdings Inc., NeighborCare Inc., NeighborCare Pharmacy Services Inc., NeighborCare Services Corporation, NeighborCare of Indiana LLC, NeighborCare of Virginia LLC, New Jersey CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Niagara Re Inc., North Carolina CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., North Shore Pharmacy Services LLC, NovoLogix LLC, OCR Services LLC, Ocean Acquisition Sub L.L.C., Ohio CVS Stores L.L.C., Oklahoma CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Omnicare, Omnicare Holding Company, Omnicare Inc., Omnicare Indiana Partnership Holding Company LLC, Omnicare Pharmacies of Pennsylvania East LLC, Omnicare Pharmacies of Pennsylvania West LLC, Omnicare Pharmacies of the Great Plains Holding LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy and Supply Services LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy of Tennessee LLC, Omnicare Pharmacy of the Midwest LLC, Omnicare Property Management LLC, Omnicare of Nebraska LLC, Omnicare of Nevada LLC, Omnicare of New York LLC, Oregon CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., PE Holdings LLC, PHPSNE Parent Corporation, PP Acquisition Company LLC, PRN Pharmaceutical Services LP, PT Aetna Management Consulting, Pamplona Saude e Beleza LTDA, Part D Holding Company L.L.C., PayFlex Holdings Inc., PayFlex Systems USA Inc., Pennsylvania CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Performax Inc., Pharmacy Associates of Glenn Falls LLC, Pharmacy Consultants LLC, Phoenix Data Solutions LLC, Precision Benefit Services Inc., Prime Net Inc., ProCare Pharmacy Direct L.L.C., ProCare Pharmacy L.L.C., Prodigy Health Group Inc., Professional Risk Management Inc., Pt. Aetna Global Benefits Indonesia, Puerto Rico CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Red Oak Sourcing LLC, Resources for Living LLC, Rhode Island CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Roeschens Healthcare LLC, RxAmerica, Schaller Anderson Medical Administrators Incorporated, Scrip World LLC, Sheffield Avenue CVS L.L.C., Shore Pharmaceutical Providers LLC, Silverscript Insurance Company, Soma Intimates, South Carolina CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., South Wabash CVS L.L.C., Specialized Pharmacy Services LLC, Spinnaker Bidco Limited, Spinnaker Topco Limited, Stadtlander Drug Company, Stadtlander Pharmacy, Sterling Healthcare Services LLC, Superior Care Pharmacy LLC, Sutter Health and Aetna Administrative Services LLC, Sutter Health and Aetna Insurance Company, Sutter Health and Aetna Insurance Holding Company LLC, T2 Medical Inc., TCPI Acquisition LLC, TargetPharmacy, Tennessee CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Texas Health + Aetna Health Insurance Company, Texas Health + Aetna Health Insurance Holding Company LLC, Texas Health + Aetna Health Plan Inc., The Vasquez Group Inc., Thomas Phoenix CVS L.L.C., Three Forks Apothecary LLC, U.S Healthcare Holdings LLC, U.S. Healthcare Properties Inc., UAC Holding Inc., UC Acquisition LLC, UNI-Care Health Services of Maine LLC, Universal American - Medicare Part D Business, Utah CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., VAPS Acquisition Company LLC, Value Health Care Services LLC, Vermont CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Virginia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Virtual Home Healthcare L.L.C., Warm Springs Road CVS L.L.C., Washington CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Washington Lamb CVS L.L.C., Weber Medical Systems LLC, Wellpartner LLC, West Virginia CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Westhaven Services Co LLC, Williamson Drug Company LLC, Wisconsin CVS Pharmacy L.L.C., Woodward Detroit CVS L.L.C., Work and Family Benefits Inc., ZS Acquisition Company LLC, Zinc Health Services LLC, Zinc Health Ventures LLC, bSwift LLC, and iTriage LLC.The following companies are subsidiares of The Sherwin-Williams: Acquire Sourcing LLC, CTS National Corporation, Comex North America Inc., Compania Sherwin-Williams S.A. de C.V., Contract Transportation Systems Co., Deep Pride Limited, Dongguan Lilly Paint Industries Ltd, Duron, EPS (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., EPS B.V., EPS Polidrox Industria e Comercio de Resinas Ltda, Geocel Holdings, Geocel Limited, Guangdong Valspar Paints Manufacturing Co Ltd., Guangdong Yuegang Dadi Paints Company Limited, Guardsman Australia Pty Limited, Guardsman Industries Limited, Inver East Med S.A., Inver France SAS, Inver GmbH, Inver Industrial Coating SRL, Inver Polska Spoka Z O.O, Inver Spa, Invercolor Bologna Srl, Invercolor Ltd, Invercolor Roma Srl, Invercolor Torino Srl, Invercolor Toscana Srl, Isocoat Tintas e Vernizes Ltda, Isva Vernici Srl, Jiangsu Pulanna Coating Co. Ltd., Leighs Paints, M.A. Bruder & Sons, Omega Specialty Products & Services LLC, Oy Sherwin-Williams Finland Ab, PT Sherwin-Williams Indonesia, PT Valspar Indonesia, Paint Sundry Brands, Pinturas Condor S.A., Pinturas Industriales S.A., Plasti-Kote Co. Inc., Plasti-kote Limited, Productos Quimicos y Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Quest Automotive Products UK Limited, Quetzal Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Resin Surfaces Limited, Ronseal (Ireland) Limited, SWIMC LLC, SWIPCO  Sherwin Williams do Brasil Propriedade, Sayerlack, Sherwin Williams Colombia S.A.S., Sherwin-Williams (Australia) Pty. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams (Belize) Limited, Sherwin-Williams (Caribbean) N.V., Sherwin-Williams (Ireland) Limited, Sherwin-Williams (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Sherwin-Williams (Nantong) Company Limited, Sherwin-Williams (S) Pte. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams (Shanghai) Limited, Sherwin-Williams (South China) Co. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Sherwin-Williams (Vietnam) Limited, Sherwin-Williams (West Indies) Limited, Sherwin-Williams Argentina I.y C.S.A., Sherwin-Williams Aruba VBA, Sherwin-Williams Automotive Mexico S.de R.L.de C.V., Sherwin-Williams Balkan S.R.L., Sherwin-Williams Bel, Sherwin-Williams Benelux NV, Sherwin-Williams Canada Inc., Sherwin-Williams Cayman Islands Limited, Sherwin-Williams Chile S.A., Sherwin-Williams Coatings India Private Limited, Sherwin-Williams Coatings S.a r.l., Sherwin-Williams Czech Republic spol. s r.o, Sherwin-Williams Denmark A/S, Sherwin-Williams Deutschland GmbH, Sherwin-Williams Diversified Brands (Australia) Pty Ltd, Sherwin-Williams Diversified Brands Limited, Sherwin-Williams France Finishes SAS, Sherwin-Williams Italy S.r.l., Sherwin-Williams Luxembourg Investment Management Company S.a r.l., Sherwin-Williams Norway AS, Sherwin-Williams Paints Limited Liability Company, Sherwin-Williams Peru S.R.L., Sherwin-Williams Pinturas de Venezuela S.A., Sherwin-Williams Poland Sp. z o.o, Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings, Sherwin-Williams Realty Holdings Inc., Sherwin-Williams Services (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Sherwin-Williams Spain Coatings S.L., Sherwin-Williams Sweden AB, Sherwin-Williams Uruguay S.A., Sherwin-Williams do Brasil Industria e Comercio Ltda., Spanyc Paints Joint Stock Company, Syntema I Vaggeryd AB, TOB Becker Acroma Ukraine, Taiwan Valspar Co. Ltd., The Sherwin-Williams Acceptance Corporation, The Sherwin-Williams Headquarters Company, The Sherwin-Williams Manufacturing Company, The Sherwin-Williams US Licensing Company, The Valspar (Asia) Corporation Limited, The Valspar (Australia) Corporation Pty. Ltd., The Valspar (Finland) Corporation Oy, The Valspar (France) Corporation S.A.S., The Valspar (France) Research Corporation SAS, The Valspar (Germany) GmbH, The Valspar (Malaysia) Corporation Sdn Bhd, The Valspar (Nantes) Corporation S.A.S., The Valspar (Singapore) Corporation Pte. Ltd, The Valspar (South Africa) Corporation (Pty) Ltd, The Valspar (Spain) Corporation S.R.L., The Valspar (Switzerland) Corporation AG, The Valspar (Thailand) Corporation Ltd., The Valspar (UK) Corporation Limited, The Valspar (Vietnam) Corporation Ltd., The Valspar Corporation, The Valspar Corporation Limitada, UAB Sherwin-Williams Baltic, Valspar (India) Coatings Corporation Private Limited, Valspar (Shanghai) Management Co. Ltd., Valspar (Uruguay) Corporation S.A., Valspar (WPC) Pty Ltd, Valspar Aries Coatings S. de R.L. de C.V., Valspar Automotive (UK) Corporation Limited, Valspar Automotive Australia Pty Limited, Valspar B.V., Valspar Coatings (Guangdong) Co. Ltd., Valspar Coatings (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Valspar Coatings (Tianjin) Co. Ltd, Valspar D.o.o Beograd, Valspar Inc., Valspar Industries (Ireland) Ltd., Valspar Industries (Italy) S.r.l., Valspar Industries GmbH, Valspar LLC, Valspar Mexicana S.A. de C.V., Valspar Paint (Australia) Pty Ltd, Valspar Paint (NZ) Limited, Valspar Powder Coatings Limited, Valspar Rock Company Limited, Valspar Specialty Paints LLC, Vantaco Oy, and ZAO Sherwin-Williams.Wall Street analysts have given iShares MSCI Japan ETF a "N/A" rating, but there may be better buying opportunities in the stock market. Some of MarketBeat's past winning trading ideas have resulted in 5-15% weekly gains. MarketBeat just released five new stock ideas, but iShares MSCI Japan ETF wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.Posted Monday, February 12, 2018 7:15 am

The third annual Show Me Grape and Wine Conference and Symposium takes place March 7-9 at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Columbia.

University of Missouri Extension viticulturist Dean Volenberg says the event offers viticulturists and enologists the opportunity to learn from leading experts and each other. Volenberg is program director of the MU Grape and Wine Institute.

The March 7 session focuses on viticulture. Cornell University associate professor Marc Fuchs leads a discussion on grapevine red blotch disease, a growing threat to vineyards. Fuchs, who received his doctorate from Universite Louis Pasteur in France, has researched viruses of fruit crops and vegetables for more than 30 years. He will tell growers what they can do to mitigate the threat of grapevine red botch disease.

James E. Schoelz, virologist with the MU Division of Plant Sciences, provides the results of a statewide survey of viruses in Missouri vineyards. Schoelz researches the environmental and genetic factors that influence the pathogenicity and host range of plant viruses. Other topics include managing vegetative vigor, nutrient management, sour rot and grapevines response to 2,4-D and dicamba.

Some of the countrys leading enologists top the March 8 session. James Harbertson, associate professor of enology at Washington State University, talks about the impact of grape ripening on wine phenolics and sensory attributes. His research focuses on the phenolic compounds found in grapes and wine and their biochemical and chemical changes during grape ripening, winemaking and aging.

Colorado State University enologist Stephen Menke leads a discussion on identifying and understanding the origins of wine faults. He researches elucidation of wine aromatic compounds, particularly aroma profiles that are uniquely associated with identification of grape varieties, terroir specificities, horticultural practices, winemaking practices and consumer recognition of wine styles.

Ethan Joseph, winemaker from Shelburne Vineyard, Vermont, presents a relatively new cultivar for tasting. The new cultivar, Marquette, is popular in cooler regions of the United States. Joseph developed a sub-brand for the winery called Iapetus, which represents wines with a strong sense of place.

Volenberg invites attendees to bring three bottles of wine for the blind tasting technical session.

On Friday, March 9, the Show Me Grape and Wine Symposium highlights viticulture and enology research taking place in Missouri. Fifteen-minute presentations focus on identifying, solving and managing problems in continental climate viticulture and enology.

Register online at gwi.missouri.edu. The Grape and Wine Institute is part of MUs College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.Posted Monday, February 12, 2018 9:00 am

The Springfield Regional Arts Council (SRAC) is pleased to accept nominations for the 2018 Ozzie Awards through Wednesday, Feb. 28. Winners will be honored at the ninth annual Flights of Fancy, southwest Missouri's most celebrated arts gala of the year, on Saturday, Oct. 13, at the Springfield-Branson National Airport.

Nominate those who have embodied the pioneering, creative spirit of the Southwest Missouri arts scene. Nominations can be made online, by mail, or in person at the SRAC office, located in The Creamery Arts Center, 411 North Sherman Parkway, Springfield, MO 65802. All information regarding nominations is confidential.

An ideal Ozzie Award candidate exhibits an extended service in promoting the arts, a broad spectrum of involvement in the arts, support above and beyond professional responsibilities, and should be a catalyst for the growth of the arts in the Ozarks. A Legacy Award is traditionally offered posthumously to an individual who demonstrated the qualities of an Ozzie Award winner in their lifetime.

First awarded in 1985, the Ozzie Awards are given each year to individuals, organizations, and businesses which have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the arts in Southwest Missouri. A public call for nominations is announced and a selection committee chooses those which best support or personify artistic achievement.

For more information about the Ozzie Awards or Flights of Fancy, contact Brett Johnston, director of marketing and development, at Brett@SpringfieldArts.org or 417-862-ARTS(2787).The US has exported to the UAE $20 billion in 2017 making the emirate its first export destination in the MENA region for the ninth year in a row.

The Census Bureaus Foreign Trade Division at the U.S. Department of Commerce, which revealed the figures, noted that the US enjoyed a $15.7 billion trade surplus with the UAE in 2017, as the UAE only exported $4.3 billion to the US.

Total bilateral trade doubled over the past decade, from $12.1 billion in 2007 to $24.3 billion last year, the census bureau added.

The UAE trades with all 50 US states, supporting jobs across the country. US exports to the UAE supported 119,000 American Jobs, the bureau said.President Donald Trump has cast a doubt on Israels readiness to make peace with Palestinians saying that the settlement scheme of the Jewish state in the West Bank makes peace prospects more complicated.

In an interview published Sunday by Israeli right wing media, freebie daily Israel Hayom, President Trump, in a rare tilt to Israel, indicated that he was not sure Tel Aviv was inclined to discuss peace with Palestinians. The American President who also expressed doubts about the Palestinians willingness to make peace, indirectly attacked Israels continued and unlawful settlements in the West Bank.

The settlements are something that very much complicates and always have complicated making peace, so I think Israel has to be very careful with the settlements, Trump said.

The Trump administration, unlike Obamas administration, supports the occupation.

Efforts by the White House to bring Palestinians and Israelis to negotiations have been damaged significantly after the US President in December declared Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Palestinians and the majority of the Arab and Muslim world condemned the recognition.

Palestinians have condemned the decision as unilateral and Israel-biased as it violates UN resolutions and accords calling for negotiation between Palestinians and Israelis to define the borders of the holy city. Palestinians hope to declare Eastern Jerusalem the capital of their future state.

The Palestinians rejected the US-endorsed peace efforts. Mahmoud Abbas, leader of the Palestinian Authority (PA) has embarked on an international diplomatic frenzy in a move to woo Russia, China, and the EU to replace the US as peace broker.Dubai-based international carrier, Emirates, Sunday finalized with Airbus the order for 20 wide body jets plus optional 16 others agreed mid-January by the two longstanding partners.

The Sunday signing, which took place on the sideline of the World Summit in Dubai, closed a January deal; a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the airline and the France-based producer.

Airbus, according to the deal estimated at $16 billion, will start delivery of the double-decker jets from 2020 onward.

This latest signing brings Emirates A380 fleet at 178 for a total order put at over $60 billion. The airline currently operates 101 A380s.

The new order has been qualified as a relief for Airbus after the company contemplated shutting down the production of the A380s if Emirates does not place an order.

The Dubai flagship carrier flies passengers to 157 destinations in 84 countries aboard its 269 wide body aircraft.Hate-mongers freely prowl in society and on social media as the secular fabric woven zealously by post-Partition leadership has been torn apart by the resurgence of consolidated religious identity in India.

Ankit Saxena, just 23, was killed outside a metro station in New Delhi. The alleged killers were Muslim and were angry with Ankit for courting a young woman from their family. In retaliation, Hindutva organisations have imposed an embargo on the killers extended family even though the brave young woman is standing up for justice.

This is not an exceptional case but an addition to the several killings that have happened in India as hate-mongers freely roam in society and on social media. A deep-rooted hatred exists in the hearts of Hindus and Muslims against each other since the time of the British Raj in India. The post-independent leadership achieved remarkable success in de-polarising the post-partition society. They attempted to weave a secular fabric among communities for almost half a century with partial success. However, religious organisations steadily cemented their respective populations identities based on faith as practice and propagation of any faith as a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution.

The consolidated religious identities resulted in a fanatic creation of pride for oneself and hatred for the other. Pride and hatred have replaced shared principles of co-existence and everything of the other becomes intolerable. This intolerance led to 28-year-old techie Mohsin Shaikh losing his life in 2014. Members allegedly of the Hindu Rashtra Sena (Hindu National Army) bludgeoned him to death as he emerged from a mosque after his evening prayer. His appearance as a Muslim bearded believer was not acceptable to the mob in a suburban area of Pune - a city known for its strange culture of religious conservatism and social reforms.

The same city had experienced one of the most sensational killings in 2013 when a popular rationalist, Dr Narendra Dabholkar, a Hindu by birth, was shot dead by Hindu fanatics. It was followed by the murders of an octogenarian leftist leader, a literary doyen, and a radical woman journalist, in the same fashion and allegedly by the same group. The conservatives hated them because they fought against superstition, caste-based hierarchy, patriarchy and communalism and considered an assault on the faith of the majority. Thus, along with the other who have not been in the business of questioning the belief system of the majority, the reformers, born in the same community, are at the receiving end of religious conservatism.

It could have been argued that countries like India and regions like West Asia are facing a post colonial syndrome, but for developments in the West. Physical assaults and killings based on religious and race hatred are consistently on the rise in the motherland and fatherland of the democratic order, i.e. the United Kingdom and the USA respectively.

The phenomenon has spread across many European countries, threatening a long phase of peace and progress that began after the second world war. While political beneficiaries of the hate upsurge call it a nationalist tide, the nationalism in consideration here is too narrow to accommodate religious, racial and linguistic minorities. Principles of secularism, democracy and rule of law had taken root in the West in not so multi-cultural societies. A broadly liberal democratic dispensation was successful in warding off the sectarian-authoritarian threats due to a mix of post-war reconstruction of the economy and social security based welfare programmes. The system created through it tackled the issue of poverty and unemployment rather successfully. This has kept peoples faith in a liberal democratic order intact.

In the process, as an economic necessity and out of liberal principles, many western countries invited skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers from other countries. This was the period when the West was still the manufacturing hub of the world. However, as industries shifted to the east and south of the globe, western societies confronted two roaring issues. First, the integration of the migrants in society, and secondly, the depleting job opportunities for everyone in the country. The cheap labour elsewhere created job shortages in the West. The resulting unrest has found easy targets in its own society. European societies are struggling to genuinely transform into a multi-cultural order. The situation is deteriorating further as stakeholders in the system are unwilling to shoulder responsibility of what is happening and why it is happening. It will have implications for rapidly developing economies like India.

Global capital has created a huge reserve army of workers by sustaining agricultural distress in developing countries. India is currently undergoing this crisis, resulting in mass migration of agricultural workers to urban centres. The intensity of the crisis is so deep that the government sponsored programme of 100 days job guarantee to one person of a family has failed to arrest migration. The fluid migrant population is easy prey for social mobilisations and hate campaigns. The widespread uncertainty about employment has ghettoised people into communities, which act as a support system to each other and a bargaining block vis-a-vis the State.

Todays India consists of multi-layered blocks of communities. The largest of them are formed on the basis of religion, while blocks within consist of caste, sub-caste and regional identities. Each block carries a grievance of injustice done to it by the other, either in the past or in the contemporary phase or both. Each block has developed hatred against at least one other block. It is a serious setback to the project of building an Indian nation state. In an essentially multi-cultural society like India, principles of secularism, democracy and rule of law were considered as the main constitutional pillars of the nation-building exercise. However, many social blocks have scant regard for such principles, thus justifying violence against the other.

With the State increasingly controlled by a conservative Hindu majority group, the chances of perpetrators of violence being awarded are more than of them being lawfully punished. Tackling such a situation through legal methods and social movements is an effective but not adequate measure. These could only be supplementary efforts to the booming economy with distributive principle. With such a scenario not in sight, the future looks gloomy, if not doomed.

They said it...

Muslims should not stay in this country,. They have partitioned the country on the basis of population. So why are they here? Muslims have been given their share. They should go to Bangladesh or Pakistan... they have no business being in India.  Vinay Katiyar, senior BJP lawmaker on Feb. 7, 2018 1

Aapko tay karna hai ki Dilli mein sarkar Ramzadon ki banegi ya haramzadon ki. Yeh aapka faisla hai (You must decide whether you want a government of those born of Ram or of those born illegitimately). Sadhvi Jyoti, BJP MP from Fatehpur in Uttar Pradesh, addressing a rally in West Delhi's Shyam Nagar area, on December 2, 2014

If we were racist, why would we have all the entire southTamil, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhrawhy do we live with them? We have black people around us Tarun Vijay, Former BJP parliamentarian on April 09, 2017

Muslims were giving birth to 12-14 children....while Hindus restrict the number to one or two. The way the Muslim population is increasing, the existence of Hindus is in danger. It is a well-planned conspiracy to have a Muslim in the chair of president, prime minister and chief ministersBanwari Lal Singhal, an MLA from Alwar, in a Facebook post on January 02, 2018

In the face of our strength (might), Hindus are not able to build even a single Ram-Temple in their own country. Do Hindus have the spunk to even stall the construction of a Mosque in Saudi-Arabia, Pak or any one of the 56 Islamic countries? Maulana Sayyad Ahmad Bukhari, Shahi Imam, Jama Masjid, Delhi.

(The author is academic head of the School of Government, Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Pune)Mumbai: Akshay Kumar's 'Padman', which deals the issue of menstrual hygiene, has been banned in Pakistan.

The country's Federal Censor Board has refused to give its nod for the release of the R Balki-directed film, which also stars Radhika Apte and Sonam Kapoor in pivotal roles.

"We can't allow our film distributors to import films which are against our traditions and culture," FCB member Ishaq Ahmed said.

The members of Punjab Film Censor Board also refused to watch the film saying it is based on a "taboo subject" and outrightly rejected any clearance certificate to it.

"We can't allow the screening of films on taboo subjects in our cinemas as it is not in our culture, society or even religion," a member said.

Well-known Pakistani filmmaker Syed Noor said that there was a need to speak to the local film distributors and exhibitors about the films they import from other countries.

"Not only this film 'Padman' but I think even 'Padmaavat' should not have been released in Pakistan as it portrays Muslims in a very negative light," Noor said.Mulund (Mumbai): A 45-year-old woman, working with the Income Tax Department, was on her way to work when she started experiencing pain in her back and chest and was sweating profusely.

She immediately called her family physician to seek an appointment to visit his clinic. An ECG was conducted and it was revealed that she was experiencing a massive heart attack. She was immediately rushed to the Emergency Department at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, but she became unresponsive in the car on their way to the hospital.

She was brought to the Emergency Department while in the state of cardiac arrest. A team of doctors led by Dr Sandeep Gore, Head of Emergency Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, immediately began administering Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation(CPR) on the this patient.

Chest compressions were initiated and the patient was then intubated with ongoing CPR; necessary life-saving drugs were also administered. At intervals, the patient was administered shocks under continuous CPR assessment; it was after a duration of 60 minutes that the doctors were able to revive her. She was then moved to the CathLab where a Primary Angioplasty was conducted by Dr Hasmukh Ravat, Senior Interventional Cardiologist at the hospital.

It is understood that if the patient gets revived after prolonged CPR of 30 minutes, their neurological outcome is poor. Generally, patients do not have positive neurological impact after such a prolonged CPR episode, which is given only for a few minutes, but in this case, the patient beat all odds.

Good clinical acumen and timely intervention was the key to her survival. Doctors at the hospital concluded that there was no neurological deficit; it was noted that the patient responded positively to treatment and was discharged within seven days, she is now recuperating well.

As per the guidelines for a person having cardiac arrest outside the hospital, one should give CPR for up to 20 minutes. The success rate of CPR patients who get cardiac arrest outside the hospital and are then taken to the hospital in a state of cardiac arrest is just 5%.

Also, according to a study it is said that by 2030, India will have up to 60% percent of the world's total cardiac arrest patients which nearly accounts four times of the total population of the world. In India, more than 10 million cardiac cases are reported annually, especially with the age group of 60 year and above, are more affected by cardiac arrest.

Speaking about the case, Dr Sandeep Gore, Head of Emergency Department, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, said, "This case is a classic example to establish that chest and back pain should not be taken lightly; it is important that one gets evaluated in a timely manner to understand the root cause. In this case, CPR was given for more than 60 minutes, which is exemplary; the patient has done well and has been discharged with no neurological deficit. Timely medical intervention and clinical acumen are the key to having positive outcomes in such cases."Kochi: Despite intense pressure from foreign stent manufacturers and hospital lobbies in the country the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority on Monday issued orders to further lower the price of the drug eluting coronary stents to Rs 27,890 from Rs 29,600 fixed last year. There was intense speculation that the stent price would shoot up with the NPPA under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India, deciding to review the prices following intense pressure from both the lobbies.

The NPPA has decided to effect a marginal rise in the price of bare metal stents from Rs 7260 to Rs 7,660 this year. The NPPA has also rejected the contentions of the foreign stent producing firms that there are different types of stents like Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold (BVS)/Biodegradable Stents apart from drug eluting stents and they be allowed much higher price. The NPPA brought all of them under the same price of Rs 27,890.

This was following the recommendation to this effect by an expert committee appointed by the Ministry of Health of Family Welfare this year to look into complaints regarding it. Before the NPPA came down on stent prices last year and regulated it, the companies and hospitals were extracting huge margins by fleecing the patients. Even now there are complaints of overcharging in this regard, off record.Chennai: In a major technological development, IIT Madras has developed the algorithm for the first indigenous health monitoring and wearable device, VinCense for deriving vitals in a non-invasive manner.

The device jointly developed by MedloTeK Health Systems and IIT Madras can be used for monitoring vital signs including pulse rate, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate and blood pressure. The real-time data are stored in the secured cloud from where healthcare providers can access vitals using an intuitive interface.

There are many health monitoring wearable devices are currently available in the market. But, their accuracy is not very good. We have developed algorithms to provide the accurate reading, said Professor M.Manivannan, Head of Touch Lab, Biomedical Engineering Group, Department of Applied Mechanics, IIT Madras.

VinCense can be deployed for Home Healthcare delivery, insurance/analytics and corporate/ industrial occupational health screening. It also has applications for non-communicable diseases screening and surveillance, general public health, and community health.

The device can also be used to monitor the wellness of the people. Not only the patients, the general public also can wear it like a wristwatch, he said. At present, the device could cost around Rs 20,000. If the number of devices increased the cost would come down as low as Rs 5,000 and can become affordable to all, he added. This collaboration with MedloTek further leads to algorithms for medical simulation applied to wireless health monitoring systems.

It could also lead to early intervention reducing risks and complications and improving clinical outcomes.Some of the applications are close monitoring of high dependency patients like post-operation, rehabilitation, tracking just discharged patients and tracking patients in the ambulance.Mangaluru: In two separate incidents, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence of Mangalore seized about four kilogrammes gold, valued Rs 1 crore, at Mangalore International Airport and Mangaluru Junction Railway Station.

Hassan and Sameera, a couple hailing from Kasargod were arrested for trying to smuggle 2.13 kg of gold concealed in a specially made abdominal belt worn by them under their clothes. They had arrived at the Mangaluru International Airport from Dubai.

Their current market value was placed at around Rs 66 lakh. The contraband gold was later seized by the officers of DRI under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962.

Both the passengers were arrested and produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Mangaluru and later released on conditional bail.

In another incident two passengers Moideen and Samsudheen travelling from Panvel to Kozhikode in Marusagar Express were caught hold of at Mangaluru Juction Railway station.

They had smuggled gold from Nepal and were travelling in train towards Kozhikode, Kerala. They had 16 gold biscuits in their possession, concealed in the inner pocket of their pants.

During personal examination of the two, the officers found some heavy objects around the waist band of the trousers. When cut open, the inside stitch of the waist band had 16 gold bars (8 gold bars each) in it.

Both the passengers admitted that 16 gold bars recovered from their possession were of foreign origin and were smuggled by them during their International trip from Dubai to Kathmandu, Nepal, a couple of days back. They further stated that after getting cleared from Kathmandu International Airport they crossed the land border at Birganj and entered India. DRI officers seized 16 gold bars of foreign origin totally weighing 1865.600 gm valued at Rs 56,33,880. Both the passengers were arrested and produced before the

Chief Judicial Magistrate, Mangaluru. Further investigations are in progress in both the cases.Congress President Rahul Gandhi in conversation with CM Siddaramaiah at Sindhanur in Raichur district on Sunday. (Photo:KPN)

Sindhanur: Realising that too much praise for Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah may turn counterproductive in the assembly polls in view of the factionalism in the state Congress, AICC president Rahul Gandhi tried to send a message to party workers on Sunday that along with Mr Siddaramaiah, leaders like campaign committee chairman D.K. Shivakumar, PCC president Dr G. Parameshwar and Congress leader in the Lok Sabha leader Mallikarjun Kharge were toiling hard for the party.

On Day 2 of his campaign in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region, Rahul addressed rallies in Kushtagi and Sindhanur, roadside meetings besides a farmers' interaction and a dialogue with youth.

On the first day of his tour, he had heaped rich praise on Mr Siddaramaiah wherever he spoke.

Realising that this strategy might send a wrong signal in Hyderabad-Karnataka, the backyard of Congress veteran Mr Kharge, he changed his narrative during the public rallies.

He also visited the 500-year old Kanakachala Lakshmi Narasimha temple near Kushtagi.The Congress presidents visit threw traffic out of gear on the Hosapete-Kalaburagi highway.

At two places, people waved black flags while near Sindhanur, SPG personnel had to chase away eight-to-ten protesters who came in the middle of the road and waived black flags.

During one interaction, a woman requested him to ban liquor which causes havoc in the economy of the lower middle class in Hyderabad and Bombay-Karnataka regions.

Mr Siddaramaiah declined saying it was not a good idea considering the revenue the state earns from liquor. However, Mr Gandhi intervened and sought a discussion on the issue. Banning liquor is an issue which we have to debate in depth. I have seen in other places that the ban on liquor has encouraged the entry of banned narcotic substances. So, we have to think about it, he said.Residents of HSR Layout form a human chain to protest against the compost plant in the area on Sunday. (Photo:DC)

Bengaluru: The residents of HSR Layout turned out in large numbers near Somasundarapalya lake on Sunday demanding the shutting down of the Karnataka Compost Development Corporation (KCDC) unit, which they allege was polluting the environment and the ground water.

They said the regulatory agencies have failed to provide any relief despite assurances. The whole area reeks of foul smell and the biofilter plant, commissioned in 2016 to control the odour, has not been effective.

The protesters argue that though the BBMP-run composting plant can process only 75 tonnes of waste, it continues to process 200 tonnes. In August 2017, a Joint Action Team (JAT) comprising members of KHHSP Resident Welfare Association (RWA) and officials of KCDC, BBMP was formed to hold regular meetings to resolve the issues.

However the residents allege the meetings are now conducted only on demand, as officials seldom turn up. Kamesh Rastogi, a member of KHHSP said, The ground water tests conducted by the pollution control board confirm the water quality within 2 km of the KCDC plant as red, which puts a question mark on its functioning.

The protestors also felt that a large amount of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) lying unattended on the premises was a safety hazard. It may be recalled that in February last year last year, it had caught fire.

Over 6,123 citizens have signed an online petition with Jhatkaa on their air alert website demanding the shifting of the plant.The Israeli army Sunday admitted that its fighter jet F-16, which crashed near the Jezreel valley, was hit by a Syrian anti-aircraft missile.

The F-16 was downed in response to an Israeli raid, targeting Iranian military entrenchments in the civil war-torn country.

The army spokesperson confirmed that the fighter jet was hit by shrapnel in the Syrian airspace on Saturday during a sortie, Times of Israel reports.

Even if it was just hit by fragments, thats still because of the missile, the spokesperson said.

The army also stressed that Israeli jets met a massive barrage of Syrian anti-aircraft fire, which reportedly included at least four different types of Russian-made air defense systems, specifically the SA-5, SA-17, SA-6 and SA-3.

The airmen in the F-16 reportedly bailed out of the plane which crashed near the Jezreel Valley in northern Israel. The pilot according to reports sustained severe injuries while the second was lightly wounded.

Israel Saturday launched a raid in Syria against alleged Iranian targets after the Jewish state accused Iran for sending a drone into Israel.

Israel has been sounding the alarm over what it calls Irans increasing involvement in Syria where the Islamic Republic has been backing the embattled regime of President Bashar al-Assad.

Tel Aviv fears that Iran is establishing military positions from where it and its Lebanon-based ally Hezbollah could be staging attacks against Israel.

Iran and the Syrian regime have denied the presence of an Iranian drone into Israel.KOZHIKODE: Transport minister A.K. Saseendran inaugurated the closing ceremony of Kerala Literature Festival on the beach here on Sunday. The festival has created a wave here with the arrival of nationally and internationally acclaimed writers and thought leaders, said M.K. Raghavan, MP. The government will take the initiative to take over the next edition and make it a much better event." Over 500 speakers from 15 countries attended over 200 sessions to celebrate literature over four days. It provided an open platform for dialogue, dissent and discussion.

It also turned out to be a space for Malayalam writers of three generations to meet and debate issues and evaluate recent transformations. KLF showcased Irish literature, with seven writers of various genres from Ireland including Gabriel Rosenstock, Conor Kostick, Liam Carson and Paddy Bush, reading, talking and discussing their writings in the specific cultural context. Besides writers from Spain, Latvia and Australia presented their work and discussed the idea of European literature.The Congress has accused the Modi government of causing insurmountable loss of taxpayers money by signing the Rafale deal worth Rs 58,000 crores. It also claimed that the Anil Ambani-led Reliance Defence Limited had been unfairly picked to be the French firms Indian partner.

The Congress alleged that the cost of each aircraft is three times more than what the previous UPA had negotiated with France in 2012. The Indian Air Force has been pushing for this because, Dassault could also help with upgradation of Mirage 2000 H fighter jets.

But what needs to be explained is the urgency behind making an emergency deal, when the previous government had already negotiated a cheaper, better, more comprehensive deal that would have given India many more jet fighters to fill the gap in defense preparedness. The 36 jets which are being procured on an emergency basis will be supplied only by 2019-22.CHENNAI: The opposition parties on Sunday decried the move to unveil the portrait of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in the Tamil Nadu Assembly with the PMK even threatening to move the court, while BJP supported the move, saying Jayalalithaa deserved the honour since she had been CM six times. The DMK petitioned the Assembly secretary against the government move.



Announcing its decision to boycott the event marking the unveiling of a portrait of late Jayalalithaa on Monday, DMK working president M.K. Stalin on Sunday said as per the Supreme Court verdict Jayalalithaa was a convict in the disproportionate assets case. Since Ms Jayalalithaa has died, she could not serve the jail term, he said and condemned the move to unveil her portrait in the Assembly.

Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal has no right or powers to unveil the portrait of a person convicted in a corruption case, he charged. It will be an insult to the Speaker, who expunges remarks that were not allowed in the House if he unveils the portrait of a person convicted in a corruption case, Mr Stalin added.

DMK petitions Speaker: DMK legislator J. Anbazhagan who petitioned the Assembly secretariat against the move said Jayalalithaas portrait in the Assembly hall would be a mockery of democracy, as she was a convict in a corruption case.

DMKs ally Congress has, however, welcomed the government decision. I wholeheartedly welcome the move to unveil Jayalalithaas portrait. As far as I am concerned, there is nothing wrong in this and I have no objection. Also, it is not wrong to construct a memorial for her, Congress MLA S. Vijayadharani said. These are the times when it is very tough for a woman to sustain in politics. But Jayalalithaa crossed so many hurdles successfully and she was a great leader accepted by people, she added.

Vijayakanth, Anbumani too oppose

As the AIADMK government is gearing up for the unveiling of the portrait DMDK president Vijayakanth said, Jayalalithaa was convicted by the court in the disproportionate assets case. Hence, her portrait should not be unveiled in the Assembly.

The Former Union Health Minister and PMK youth wing leader Dr Anbumani Ramadoss said, Unveiling of Jayalalithaas portrait in the TN Assembly is unacceptable. He called upon the government to drop the idea at once and said his party would appr-oach the court to stop initiative, if necessary.

CPI (M) state secretary G.Ramakrishnan said, This will set a wrong example, as she was convicted by the court in a corruption case.

BJP supports unveiling Jayas portrait

Welcoming the move, BJP state president Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan said, her portrait can be unveiled in the Assembly on the basis that she was elected six times as the CM of Tamil Nadu. There is nothing wrong in opening her portrait in TN Assembly hall, she added.

On Saturday, the State government said the late CMs portrait would be unveiled in the Assembly on Monday by Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal. Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami will preside over the function in the presence of Deputy CM O. Panneerselvam, said Assembly secretary K. Boopathy.T.S. Vijayan, chairman, IRDAI, presents a memento to Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu at the valedictory function of International insurance conference at HICC on Sunday. (Photo: DECCAN CHRONICLE)

Hyderabad: Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday asked politicians to be more punctual, disciplined and transparent in public life and to rise as role models for the current generation.

He said that these qualities are lacking in present day politicians. He was speaking at a function to felicitate former Tamil Nadu Governor and AP Chief Minister Konijeti Rosaiah with a Lifetime Achievement Award instituted by Lalitha Kala Parishad founded by senior MP T. Subbarami Reddy.

Mr Venkaiah Naidu said that democratic foundations of the Nation would be safe and strong with stable governments. He said that a greater introspection is the need of the hour among politicians to respect the democratic principles and their behaviour in various Legislative Houses.

Mr Venkaiah Naidu said it is wrong to call someone as an enemy in politics and said that there are only opponents and adversaries in the political field.

He said Mr Rosaiah is a multi-talented person who is committed to core values of democracy and decency in public life.

Replying to this, Mr Rosaiah said his political career started in early 1960s and Mr Venkaiah Naidu became his friend during the Jai Andhra movement.

Rajya Sabha MP Mr Subbarami Reddy said that the credit of taking Telugu pride to international-level goes to Mr Venkaiah Naidu and Mr Rosaiah.Duterte who came into power after vouching to kill all of the countrys drug users and peddlers has been doing just that. (Photo: File)

Beijing: Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, already under fire for overseeing a state-sanctioned blood bath, has reached a new level in a series of misogynistic and violent remarks, wherein he has encouraged the countrys armed forces to shoot female rebels in their vaginas.

Duterte made the comment on February 7th while addressing the Armed Forces of Philippines (AFP), who were formerly a group of communists, the Washington Post reported.

The Presidential Communications Office included the comment in the official transcript from the event, but replaced the word vagina with a dash.

"Tell the soldiers. 'There's a new order coming from the mayor. We won't kill you. We will just shoot your vagina,'" he said.

Duterte then took it further adding that, "If there is no vagina, it would be useless," indicating -- as typical patriarchal fascists do -- that women are worthless without their genitals.

Duterte who came into power after vouching to kill all of the countrys drug users and peddlers has been doing just that. The shocking numbers of Filipinos that have lost their lives, and arbitrarily so, has urged the international criminal court to open investigations into Dutertes role in sanctioning state-sponsored violence.

This is not the first time that Duterte has come under the limelight for being openly misogynistic and tried to brush it away as a joke. Not too long ago, Dutertes spokesman accused women of overreacting and urged them to laugh off the presidents denigrating comments.

According to the official transcript the event, the crowd did, in fact, laugh.

He has in the past joked about rape and targeted female politicians with unsolicited comments about their sexuality.

"Duterte (sic) latest nasty remark openly encourages violence against women, contributes to the impunity on such, and further confirms himself as the most dangerous macho-fascist in the government right now," said a representative for Gabriela, a feminist organization, in a statement.

"He is pushing the fascist AFP to commit more bloody human rights violations and grave abuses of international humanitarian law, and takes state terrorism against women and the people to a whole new level."SOUTH SALT LAKE  Neighbors call it a "secret gem."

Nestled in the heart of a South Salt Lake neighborhood is Mill Creek Pond  a treasure trove of wildlife teeming with migratory birds and delicate wetlands. It's an area that surrounding homeowners take pride in caring for as they have for the past five years.

But recently the pond has raised the eyebrows of some members of the South Salt Lake City Council, who are questioning whether a lease agreement between the city and the neighborhood's homeowners association has given the neighborhood unfair exclusive access to city- and county-owned property that could act as public space.

Additionally, some city leaders are concerned some residents have been treating city-owned land as their own backyards, with some having built decks and boardwalks on Redevelopment Agency property bordering the county-owned pond.

When the lease agreement between the HOA and South Salt Lake was signed in 2013, the city gated off the access point to the pond, near 540 E. 3195 South, and gave neighbors a key.

Councilman Mark Kindred, acting as chairman of the city's Redevelopment Agency at a council meeting Wednesday night, questioned whether the neighborhood has been using the area as a "personal park."

"I think the HOA has done a great job maintaining it, I'm not doubting that  but this is (city) owned property that is restricted to the members of the HOA and the surrounding property owners," Kindred said.

The meeting was the beginning of talks to possibly change the lease agreement currently in place with the neighborhood with an aim to increase public access to the area.

The discussion brought a crowd of concerned neighbors, who cautioned city leaders against opening the area to the general public, which they said would bring homeless camps, vandalism and other crime to the hidden wooded area  something the pond is no stranger to.

"It would be a big mistake to open that up," said Janet Mayo, whose house abuts the south end of the pond. She said before the gate was installed, she'd see people sleeping on the banks, garbage in the water and drug dealing outside her back window.

"It's a good thing that gate is locked," she said, adding that it would be a difficult area for police to patrol. "It's good for the community. It's good for the police. It's good for South Salt Lake."

"Before they gated it off, it was a perfect camping ground," said Steve Norr, president of the neighborhood's HOA and chairman of the Mill Creek Pond Action Committee, which maintains the area.

South Salt Lake Mayor Cherie Wood also lives in the neighborhood. Her house abuts the creek that feeds into the south end of the pond, though she's not a member of the HOA that maintains the pond. She said in an interview Thursday that she witnessed on more than one occasion police chasing suspects of robberies through the wooded area behind her house before the pond was gated off in 2013.

"My concern is from a perspective of trying to police it," the mayor said, adding that because the city's property is so close to neighborhood backyards, "I don't think it's an area that could be utilized as a public park."

Judy Mincher, who has lived there for 20 years, said if the area was opened to the public, anyone could walk right into her backyard.

"If they walk by my deck, I could shake their hand," she said. "And that's kind of scary. I wouldn't know these people."

It's not the first time the neighborhood has pushed back against plans to bring more foot traffic to the pond. In 2009, residents rallied together to protest an urban trail through the area.

Councilman Ben Pender suggested keeping the gate open during the day and closing it at night to help prevent illicit activities.

"All of the community should be able to enjoy the property  it's a beautiful piece of property back in there," he said, adding that he sees it as an "extension" of Fitts Park.

But as Norr walked along the pond Thursday, motioning to houses and backyards just feet away from the bank, he asked: "Does this look like a park to you?"

"We take a lot of pride in this area," Norr said, looking across the pond where scores of ducks and geese swam. He said if the area became a park, it would create a "huge concern" for neighbors and cause migratory birds to stop seeking refuge at the pond.

"It's a secret gem," said Dallas O'Very, who moved with his wife, Alice, to the neighborhood about a year ago, ecstatic to find a nature preserve in the heart of the city. They, too, worry about safety concerns if the area is opened to the public.

Councilwoman Portia Mila, who represents the neighborhood, said her top concern is how general access to the area would impact the residents, and she isn't supportive of opening up the area as if it were a park.

But Kindred, Pender and Councilman Shane Siwik said they want to explore alternatives to the current lease and in some ways increase public access.

"It's a very beautiful area, and I agree with the residents about the importance of maintaining the wetland and the wildlife that exist there," Siwik said. "But it's also important to recognize the entire community pays (taxes) for that, and there needs to be some equity that is fair to everybody."

Siwik and Kindred expressed interest in working with the neighborhood to propose ways to access the area without opening the gates to the general public  perhaps through increased tours for classrooms. As part of the current lease agreement, a classroom tours the area at least once a year, Kindred said.

But there's another issue Kindred said will need to be addressed: Some residents appear to have built decks and boardwalks on city-owned land  which was not allowed as part of the 2013 lease agreement.

Kindred said he learned of the area when a neighbor, Bob Lamone, told him in an email that Norr had years ago built a deck on city-owned property. "Your job as (Redevelopment Agency) chair is to protect city-owned land," Lamone wrote in the email.

Kindred said if there is any private use of city-owned land, city officials will need to look into the issue and address it.

Norr, who noted he and Lamone have had political differences, said when he moved into his house 18 years ago, there was already a deck in place and thought there would be no problem with improving it, but he said if city officials want it gone, he'll take it out.

"That deck means absolutely nothing to me," Norr said, adding that he cares more about protecting the pond. "Keeping this area secure means everything to this neighborhood."

Council members didn't take action on the lease agreement Wednesday but said they'd like to schedule tours of the area and talk more with neighbors to find a solution.SALT LAKE CITY  The email pinged into my inbox with no warning:

Years ago you spoke with me on the streets of downtown Salt Lake City. I was conning people out of money. Saying I was stranded and needed to get home. When you confronted me I told you that most of the people asking for money on the street were heroin addicts. I believe that you wrote an article for the paper on this a few days later. For me this was a lifetime ago. I was a reckless, sad, lost child. Many things have transpired in my life since then. I am drug and alcohol free and have been so for over 5 years. I am a case manager who works with the homeless population here in Salt Lake. I am doing what I can to give back to the community from which I took so much.

Our brief conversation and the few other encounters that we had afterward have stuck with me over the years. Im not sure why. I would very much like to buy you lunch and talk with you. If you are not interested I understand. If you would like to chat you can email me or call my cellphone. If I dont answer leave a message and I will get back with you. If not let me wish you blessings.

Sausha Douglas Lovell

It was mid-May when we met on the street. He said he was stranded and needed help. The problem was, hed been using that same line for weeks. I called him on it, and for some reason he came clean, not only about his own drug addiction but about most everyone else begging on the street. They didnt need food, he said, they needed heroin.

I wrote a column, Dialogue with a stranded traveler, that ran May 19, 2002.

I remember when we talked I found his story all the sadder because he was oozing with personality and charisma. I told my kids and co-workers at the office about him. In the back of my mind he never really left. And now he was back.

To hear he was off heroin and had turned his life around to the point he was helping others 

Lunch?

In a second.

We met at the Blue Lemon at City Creek, around the corner from where we talked in 2002. I ordered a salad. So did he.

I tried to buy. He insisted I couldnt.

Sausha is 46 now and at least 30 pounds heavier than the last time we saw each other. Most of his hair is gone. I wouldnt have recognized him in a thousand years  until he started to talk. And there it was, the same patter, the same charm, the same personality that kept that heroin habit funded year after year.

The column hurt business, he told me. After that, some passers-bys told him, Oh no, buddy, I read about you, not giving you a dime. That and trouble with the police got him out of town and off to California.

He was leaving his roots. Sausha was born at Holy Cross Hospital in Salt Lake City. He went to South High School as a freshman in its last year of existence  his and theirs. South closed the next year and Sausha was in detention. Raised by a single mom, his dad, a drug addict, died of AIDS when he was 10 or 11. He was already sniffing glue by then. In his teens he was using everything he could get his hands on. But heroin ruled. By the time he was 31, when we met, he was feeding a $50-a-day habit with his stranded traveler routine.

He was good at conning people, if he does say so himself, in Salt Lake City. But in California, different story. I ran the same con but it was infinitely harder there because everybodys doing it and theyre 10 times better than I am.

He eventually drifted to San Francisco and got off heroin with a methadone maintenance program. But to take the edge off, he ramped up his alcohol intake considerably. Always loaded is no way to live. Initially when you drink and do drugs you get high; it feels good, really good, but then you get to the point where you just need that to maintain, and then it goes dark, where you cant stop using but it not only doesnt get you high, it not only doesnt maintain, but when you use it makes you feel worse.

It got to the point where I was going crazy and all I could think is, I dont want to die in San Francisco, at the Henry Hotel, SRO, 6th Street, I dont want to do that. Id seen so many people die there, and I thought Im just going to go home. Ill die there.

Back in Salt Lake City in 2012, those run-ins with the law that sent him on the run a decade earlier came back to save his life.

Shortly after his return, he was stopped by police and the outstanding warrants were found. In jail, he got on DORA (Drug Offenders Rehabilitation Program). After he was released to probation he was placed in First Step, a drug and alcohol treatment center in Rose Park.

Without that, Lee, we wouldnt be talking, he told me. Because Id be dead.

The upshot of all this is a man born again in all the right ways.

I dont know how I survived, I really dont. Divine intervention on my shoulder is all I can say. I dont claim to know how, I dont know Jesus or Buddha or Allah or anything like that, but I know for me there was a spiritual intervention, letting me find my place in the grand scheme of things, letting me find my voice in the choir.

My place in that choir is to help.  I think I do that, not on the level Id like to if I were a billionaire, but I manage to get in a few good licks against the darkness.

His work is with the homeless and the addicted, the very people he once lived among. I can look at people and say, 'Ive been where you are now and Im here now. Ive lived in a cardboard box on the sidewalk in the rain, Ive done that.'

Now he has an apartment on South Temple, a regular paycheck, insurance, some paid time off.

Theres some survivors guilt there, which is part of the reason I want to do this thing Im doing. I feel like I owe  owe people, owe the universe. I dont know, maybe Im Irish in my past life. Im lucky. Just to be able to have all my teeth, thats a miracle.

I still have my issues, but I try, try to find the next right thing and do it. Sometimes I do, sometimes I dont. The intent is whats important, as long as your rudders pointed the right way, I think youre all right.

What I want to say is theres hope, man, no matter what, theres hope.

When he passes panhandlers these days, even those who are obvious con artists, he says he gives them money out of pure empathy.

Its not like if they get your five bucks theyre winning. Theres no scenario where theyre sitting on the beach laughing and counting their rolls of money. Theyve already lost. If theyre doing that, theyve already lost.

After two hours, we hugged and parted, literally yards from where wed talked in 2002. He was off to help people this time, not con them. I was off to the office to do the same thing I did 16 years ago  write about what just happened, but with a much lighter step.SALT LAKE CITY  A bill stemming from the yearslong controversy surrounding former Salt Lake County Recorder Gary Ott moved one step closer to becoming Utah law Monday, but not without some opposition.

SB38, which would allow the removal of mentally incapacitated elected officials in certain counties, passed out of the House Government Operation Committee with a 7-2 vote. It now goes to the House floor for consideration.

SB38 rose out of the trouble Salt Lake County officials faced when Ott remained in office for more than a year while he appeared to suffer mental health issues.

It was later revealed in court testimony that Ott was diagnosed with a form of progressive dementia in 2013, a year before he ran a successful campaign to serve a six-year term. During the time of court proceedings, he had been diagnosed with stage 4 Alzheimer's, according to his siblings' attorney. Ott died just days after the court hearings.

When urging lawmakers to support SB38, the bill's sponsor, Sen. Daniel Thatcher, R-West Valley City, referred to accusations from county officials, employees and others that two of Ott's employees had hidden Ott's condition so their boss would stay in office and they could keep their jobs.

"I believe they did so for purposes of financial gain," Thatcher said, without naming Ott's former chief deputy, Julie Dole, and his office aide, Karmen Sanone. Both women have denied those allegations.

"But what if this were worse?" Thatcher asked. "What if it were actually the family that didn't want to give up the salary or the benefits? What if it was a family that was actually hiding the position?"

It was Ott's siblings who ultimately reached a resignation agreement with Salt Lake County, approved by a judge, that ended Ott's term  but not after county leaders spent months struggling with how to address the situation.

"The important thing to remember here is this: There was a man who needed help. And he could not get it. Salt Lake County literally had no options at all," Thatcher said.

SB38 comes after two years of work to draft a law to remove mentally unfit elected officials. Thatcher acknowledged the bill isn't "perfect," but he's hoping it will act as a "starting point" for more expansive legislation.

In response to fears the bill could be used as a political weapon, the bill was scaled back since its initial version from 2016, and would only apply to six counties in Utah  only if they choose to adopt it.

SB38 would require a unanimous vote of the county's elected body (excluding the elected official in question) and would only be applicable to counties that have at least five elected officials on their council or commission. The law would also only apply if the county adopts it as an ordinance.

The unanimous vote would then only refer the question of the elected official's removal to a judge, who would then decide whether to order a competency evaluation by a medical professional.

If the medical professional determines the elected official is mentally unfit for office, the official would be given five days to resign. If the official does not resign within that time, the council or commission could then remove the official with another unanimous vote.

Thatcher narrowed the bill to only include counties with larger councils or commissions to address concerns from the Utah Association of Counties and the Utah League of Cities and Towns that the law had the potential to be used inappropriately by smaller legislative bodies, he said.

But Rep. Merrill Nelson, R-Grantsville, still had misgivings with the bill, particularly with a legislative body starting the process by voting on whether the officer lacks mental capacity before a medical evaluation is done. (A medical evaluation would be done later in the process, and the legislative body can only vote to remove the elected official if the medical evaluation determines the elected official has a permanent mental incapacity preventing him or her from fulfilling the office's duties).

"That legislative body is acting only on innuendo, appearance, rumor, newspaper accounts," Nelson said. "We've got the cart before the horse, we've got to have medical evidence before making a unanimous determination that he lacks capacity."

"It's a good start," he added, "but I can't support this under its current form."

The Salt Lake County Council has taken a neutral position on the bill, with some members supporting it, while others, including Councilman Steve DeBry, have said he'd only support the bill if it applied across the state, not just a handful of counties.

Dole, who no longer works for Salt Lake County after the county GOP rejected her bid to take Ott's place, also criticized the bill in a tweet Monday.

"(I) wish the Legislature would take the time to develop comprehensive recall legislation that could be used for every elected official in the state from the municipal level (through) U.S. senators," she wrote. "This bill will have very little impact on actually removing incompetent elected officials."

But Rep. Rebecca Chavez-Houck, D-Salt Lake City, who sponsored the original version of the bill, urged lawmakers to support the bill, calling it a "good starting point."

Adam Trupp, CEO of the Utah League of Cities and Towns, also spoke in support of the bill, noting "the goal would be to expand" it to other municipalities in the future.The Catholic Bishops in Tanzania Sunday denounced the violations of democratic principles and freedom of expression by President John Magufulis administration.

In a pastoral letter, the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Tanzania said political activities are prohibited by the instrumentalization of the police. The Church accused President Magufuli for his silence.

Activities of political parties, such as public gatherings, demonstrations, marches, debates inside premises are suspended until the next elections in Tanzania.

Denouncing violations of the Constitution and national laws, the Bishops stressed that media are closed or temporarily suspended, thus restricting the right of citizens to information, freedom of opinion and expression and their right to privacy.

The Church indicated that the current political atmosphere bred division and hatred that could endanger peace, security and the lives of citizens.

Since his inauguration three years ago, Magufuli has overseen numerous closures and suspensions of media outlets.

His government has undermined judicial and parliamentary independence, implemented a partial ban on public rallies, harassed MPs, closed online political space, and prosecuted critics under new defamation and sedition laws.

Nicknamed Tingatinga (Bulldozer in Swahili), President Magufuli has however made an impression, being unyielding in the fight against corruption in the East African nation.Cape Town, South Africa, is not the only city in the world suffering the effects of extreme drought, BBC reported. The news broadcaster recently profiled 11 other cities facing a water crisis in the near future.

Cape Town's crisis is most eminent, with more than 4 million residents expected to be without water by April 12, according to CNN.

We have reached a point of no return, Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille said in an addressin January.

Cape Towns increasing population and poor government organization and planning led to the crisis, among other factors, NPR reported.

Similar issues may plague cities across the world when it comes to their water supply, according to BBC's list of cities. Sao Paulo was listed as the top city, followed by Bangalore, India, and Beijing in China. All three have rising populations and economic development but don't have enough water to keep up the pace.

Miami was the only U.S. city to make the list. Despite the citys heavy intake of rain water, a decades old project to drain swampland in the area has had the unintentional consequence of allowing Atlantic Ocean water to contaminate the Biscayne Aquifer, which is the city's main source of drinkable water.

Although the problem was detected in the 1930s, seawater still leaks in, especially because the American city has experienced faster rates of sea level rise, with water breaching underground defense barriers installed in recent decades, according to BBC.

See the full list of cities imperiled by drought at BBC.

The entire world could soon face a water crisis, as global demand for water will grow nearly 40 percent by 2030, according to United Nation projections. About 2.1 billion people currently lack safe drinking water at home, according to the World Health Organization.

Though not listed on BBCs list, Arizona is facing a drought that could last for 20 to 30 years, according to Smithsonian Magazine. Arizona's prolonged drought and expanding population have strained Arizona's water supply to its limits.

In fact, about a quarter of Arizona's water supply comes from the Colorado River, which has been facing a crippling drought, according to The New York Times.

Southern California and southern Nevada have seen hotter and drier weather shrink the flow of the Colorado River and the water levels of dams along the river, putting strains on water supplies for those areas that rely on the Colorado, according to Vox.

John Fleck, the director of the Water Resources Program at the University of New Mexico, told Vox that it's not all doom and gloom.

"And the reason is that all across the West, when people are confronted with the fact that theres not enough water, theyve been really successful at using less. So rather than the catastrophe Id been led to expect, what I found instead was people working hard to figure out how to adapt," he said.

National Weather Service hydrologist Brian McInerney told KSL that Utah wont run out of water anytime soon.

So far we havent even come close to anything like what you see in South Africa, he added. Thats due to the storage, how the water is metered out and conservation programs.Idris Elba Is Engaged To The Stunning Model, Sabrina Dhowre

Yes, you heard that right! The popular Hollywood actor, Idris Elba, is engaged to the beauty queen Sabrina Dhowre. The romance is flourishing in the air for the couple.





The reports are emerging that the theatre, where the film was being shown, tweeted that Idris went down on his knee and proposed Sabrina live on stage before a preview of his film Yardie. Also, the beauty queen answered in affirmative to a big question popped by Idris and it was a moment of cheering. So, its celebration time for the love birds!





It seems that the celebrations of Valentines Day have started a little earlier for Idris and Sabina. According to the reports, the 45-year-old actor proposed Sabrina during a packed screening of his directorial debut 'Yardie' in Dalston, East London. The charm of proposing love to your beloved never fades and the same is for the couple. DesiMartini congratulates the couple and wishes them luck for their future.





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Source: www.voice-online.co.ukKim Cattrall Slams Sarah Jessica Parker, Calls Her Hypocrite

Latest news reveals that actress Kim Cattrall, who had been in odds since their stint in Sex and the City, has slammed her co-star Sarah Jessica Parker. She has called her a hypocrite after expressing her commiseration following the death of the actor's brother Christopher Cattrall. The actors brother was found dead after being reported missing for a day.





The actress took to her Twitter account to show her anger. She twitted, I don't need your love or support at this tragic time, Sarah Jessica Parker. Posting a photograph she captioned it, My Mom asked me today 'When will that Sarah Jessica Parker, that hypocrite, leave you alone?' Your continuous reaching out is a painful reminder of how cruel you really were then and now.





She further wrote, Let me make this very clear. (If I haven't already) You are not my family. You are not my friend. So I'm writing to tell you one last time to stop exploiting our tragedy in order to restore your 'nice girl' persona. However, Sarah hasnt replied to her comments yet.





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Source: www.myajc.comNaga Chaitanya And Samantha To Reunite On-Screen Post Marriage?

Naga Chaitanya and Samantha to reunite for a film after marriage? One of the most loved couples of Telugu film industry, Naga Chaitanya and Samantha, is likely to reunite on-screen for a telugu flick. Lets try to find out more about the project that they both are likely to come up with after their marriage.





The rumour mills are churning news that the popular Tollywood actors, Naga Chaitanya and Samantha, are likely to collaborate for their first project together post marriage. There are reports that the director Shiva Nirvana met Naga Chaitanya recently and narrated a script. And it has been hinted by the actor that it would be nice if Samantha too came on board.





The reports are emerging that the director is working on the draft. If rest falls in its place, then the good news will soon roll out for the fans of the couple. At present, Naga Chaitanya is busy shooting for 'Sailaja Reddy Alludu' and Samantha has an interesting line-up this year with 'Rangasthalam', 'Super Deluxe' and 'Mahanati.





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Source: indianexpress.comMoroccos FBI, the Central Bureau for Judicial Investigations (BCIJ), seized 541 kg of cocaine smuggled from Latin America in a shipping container and arrested six people in an operation at the Casablanca port.

The operation was jointly conducted between the BCIJ and Moroccos domestic intelligence agency (DGST), the BCIJ said in a statement.

Among the arrested individuals is the mastermind of the drug trafficking network, identified by the BCIJ as a Brazilian national.

A sample of the drug was sent to the Scientific Polices Laboratory to determine the concentration of cocaine, the source said, adding that five cars intended to be used for the transport of the drug were also seized, in addition to large sums of money in national and foreign currencies.

The early results of the probe show that the criminal network has links to cartels in Latin America. The cocaine was intended to be smuggled into Europe using Morocco as a transit point, the BCIJ explained.

Last November, Spanish and Moroccan police have netted close to four tons of cocaine and seized 13 million in cash in an operation that resulted in the dismantlement of a drug trafficking network.

A month earlier, Moroccan police seized 2.5 tons of cocaine with a street value of $2.7 billion.Almost 8M of funding has been announced for Killybegs Harbour Centre.

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Michael Creed has approved a 27.9m Capital Investment Package for the ongoing development of Irelands publicly owned fishery harbour network.

Development works to be carried out include phase two of the smooth point extension, landing pier electrical upgrades and safety and maintenance works, as well as contractual commitments and necessary disability access works.

Donegal TD and government chief whip Joe McHugh welcomed the announcement:This funding investment of 7.98M will positively support and enhance the facilities located at Killybegs Harbour Centre, enabling them to continue with their ongoing development of the sea fisheries and seafood processing sectors.

Minister Creed has also allocated 2m for a Local Authority Harbour Development and Marine Leisure programme to assist coastal Local Authorities in the repair and development of piers, harbours , and slipways under their ownership.

Minister Creed said: I have set aside almost 2.47m towards safety, maintenance and development works at the six fishery harbour centres and at North Harbour, Cape Clear which is also owned by my Department. The 27.9m allocated for the 2018 Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Capital Programme is a substantial capital investment in our six Fishery Harbour Centres located throughout the country, and other fisheries related marine infrastructure, and it builds on previous successful Capital Programmes.

Minister Joe McHugh said: This substantial investment is further evidence of this Governments ongoing commitment to the Seafood sector, and I wish to thank Minister Creed and Department officials for their work on this capital investment package.A world famous marine biologist and adventurer is set to give an inspiring oration at the Donegal Marine Tourism Conference this March.

Monty Halls will discuss 'Connecting our Coastline - The Future of Sustainable Coastal Tourism' at the conference which is being organised by Donegal County Council in conjunction with Donegal CLG in March.

Monty Halls is best known for his three BBC2 series Great Escapes, where he lived on the west coast of Scotland and Ireland with his dog Reuben.

He also presented the multi-award winning series Great Barrier Reef as well as the ground-breaking expedition series Lost Worlds for the Discovery Channel.

He has also written several books and is a regular contributor to magazines and newspapers, many of them communicating his enthusiasm for the natural world.

The Chief Executive and Chair of Donegal Tourism CLG, Seamus Neely said: We are thrilled that Monty Halls has agreed to speak at our Donegal Marine Tourism Conference in March.

Mr. Neely said that this conference is about exploring topics such as sustainable marine tourism development, new marine technologies, digital marketing tips, trends and strategy and eco-tourism.

Having Monty Halls on board who has such a vast array of experience as a marine adventurer and marine biologist is a great coup for the county, Mr Neely said.

This conference will take place in the stunning setting of the Shandon Hotel in Marble Hill, Portnablagh on Thursday 8 March 2018.

Other speakers will include Naomh McElhatton from Smart NI, Thomas Furey from the Marine Institute and Beckey-Finn Britton from the Clean Coasts initiative in Donegal.

There will be a local business case study in the afternoon.

There will also be lots of useful information stands on the day.

A questions and answers session will take place during the day offering attendees the opportunity to discuss marine tourism topics with the expert panel of guest speakers.

This conference is open to anyone with an interest in marine tourism opportunities and development of County Donegal as a marine tourism destination of excellence.

People are being urged to register for the conference. You can register for this event by going to https://goo.gl/TYpH5g.Two local schools had a very special guest on Friday as Vice-President of the European Parliament Mairead McGuinness paid official visits to both St Josephs Primary School in Muirhevna Mor and St Marys College in the town.

The local MEP first stopped off at St Joseph's to speak to fifth and sixth class pupils, enjoying the facilities in their new extension which was officially opened in late 2016.

The school is participating in the Blue Star Programme 2017-2018 which aims to foster an understanding of the EU among schoolchildren and McGuinness discussed the EU, how it works and her own role as Vice-President with the children.

"The whole school is involved with really interesting projects about the culture and history of the many different countries in the European Union," McGuinness said.

"It was great to listen to the children and discuss how the European Union works and why working together is so important. The children were well aware of Brexit and had lots of questions about what it means for Ireland.

"Like so many of their fellow students in schools throughout the country they have an innate understanding of the unity and co-operation that underlies European membership, she continued, whilst also paying tribute to teacher Marie Sheppard and Principal Dr. Roz Morris.

Afterwards, Ms McGuinness spoke with transition year students at St Mary's College about how the the European Union, her ongoing work and Brexit.

"Brexit is a real challenge to that sense of unity, which the EU is all about, and being on the border, the pupils had a real sense of the ground shifting underneath their feet and their community with the fears for any change to the current situation when the UK leaves the EU in March next year, she said.

The former broadcaster thanked transition year student Caitlin Rooney for the invitation to visit the school, which also coincided with Cycle Against Suicide's 'Go Orange' campaign of which McGuinness is a staunch supporter.

"I was impressed by the range of questions the students asked, from Brexit to how the EU institutions works, she said.

"Mental health issues also featured strongly with my visit coinciding with the Cycle Against Suicide's 'Go Orange' campaign entitled It's OK not to feel OK in which schools around country are participating in the national #SchoolsGoOrange campaign."

She thanked teacher Edel Ni Dhoirnin and Principal, Alan Craven for facilitating her visit and wished them well in their fantastic school building.Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

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Support our mission and join our community now.10 reasons to fall in love with Greece

There are numerous reasons to visit the beautiful country of Greece.

Here are just 10 to consider:

1. The weather

If you are a sun worshipper, theres no better location. Greece sees warm temperatures all summer long - especially in July and August - and even in the winter months it tends to remain in the double figures.

2. The food

The food in Greece is unbelievable, with traditional dishes served up in local restaurants that youll want to go back to again and again. Freshly caught seafood is always available, while gyros is the perfect midday treat as tender sliced meat, hot chips and fresh salad are bundled together in a warm pitta bread. For those with a sweet tooth, baklava is the perfect treat featuring flaky filo pastry layered with ground nuts, filo and honey.

3. The famous movie locations

If youre a movie buff, Greece is definitely a must visit destination as a huge number of films have been shot on the mainland and across the stunning Greek islands surrounding it. The beautiful romance movie Captain Corellis Mandolin was set and filmed in Greece, as well as the musical Mamma Mia! and James Bond flick For Your Eyes Only.

4. The beaches

Greece is renowned for its beautiful beaches and some of these are best found on its islands shores. Elafonissi is a popular choice, with its pink tinged sand and crystal clear water, while Stafylos beach is a stunning cove with azure water and greenery to enjoy while spending the day lazing in the sun.

5. The history

History buffs will be in their element on a trip to Greece as the ancient sites and temples lend themselves to hours spent exploring them and appreciating the rich history inside. Those who love reading up on mythology can visit the real locations where the stories originate from - such as Knossos where the labyrinth from (Theseus and the Minotaur supposedly fought), or the city where Agamemnon (who raged war on the city of Troy) resided.

6. Something for everyone

Beach bums can spend the day on the sand, history lovers can head off to the city to explore and those who prefer a hike can take a trip to one of the many temples set high up into the mountains - Greece has it all.

7. The nightlife

Those who enjoy a night on the tiles wont go wrong with a visit to Greece as the locals know how to have a good time. Cities such as Athens or Thessaloniki are the best choices if youre looking for a night out, with plenty of bars and clubs.

8. The thrill seeking experience

Greece offers lots to see and do with a range of activities available to try out around the main beaches and resorts. Give base jumping a go in Zakynthos, try surfing in Tinos or head out into the big blue and try your hand at snorkelling or diving.

9. The language

Many of us feel comfortable in European countries such as France or Spain because we can decipher the language. However, Greece is a whole new ball game. Greek language is definitely a complicated one - especially in its written form - but its incredible to listen to and if you can learn a few key phrases youll be making friends with the locals in no time. You should always learn the basic phrases anyway - here are some to add to your repertoire.

10. The short flight

If youre heading over from Europe youll likely experience a flight time of four hours maximum - making Greece the perfect destination for a last minute trip.

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Healthcare is a mess in the United States. Consumers pay more and get less than in most other developed countries. Strong comprehensive healthcare is unaffordable for most without substantial help, which is why putting the burden on the government really does not work.

If people cannot afford something, individually aggregating it under what amounts to a tax is not really any better -- and given the extra overhead, arguably is worse.

What's needed is a way to bring costs down sharply so that whether it's funded by the state or paid for by individuals, healthcare becomes affordable.

One way to do that is to have a new player enter the market at massive scale and use its buying and political power to force the industry to reduce excessive pharmaceutical gouging, waste and excessive testing, and erect a stronger barrier to excessive litigation.

Amazon, which last week announced its entry into the healthcare market with JP Morgan and Berkshire Hathaway, could be that company. However, as I recently discovered, Amazon already has abused its power. What will happen if it gets massively more powerful?

I'll share my thoughts on that this week and close with my product of the week, one of the most innovative smartphones in the market.

The Real Healthcare Problem

Both political parties in the U.S. are so focused on the issue of control that neither seems focused at all on the real healthcare problem, which is that the cost/benefit analysis suggests the country is in horrid shape.

If you look at the World Health Organization rankings, the U.S. is No. 1 with a bullet on cost (the most expensive of any country in the survey) but ranks a lousy No. 72 on performance.

You know which country ranks first on performance on level of health? Oman, which is No. 62 on cost. France, a country often ridiculed, ranks No. 4 on performance and No. 4 on cost. Its state-sponsored system is aligned at least. However, Italy outperforms France, ranking No. 3 on performance but No. 11 on cost. Saudi Arabia is No. 10 on performance and No. 63 on cost.

Using President Trump's "winning" rhetoric, when it comes to healthcare, the U.S. not only is not winning, but also is arguably behind the world on cost benefit. Even North Korea is better aligned than the U.S. -- it is No. 172 on cost and No. 153 on performance (North Koreans do not get much, but they pay even less).

With all of its technology and unique advancements, the United States sucks at healthcare. The real problem with Obamacare is that it does not fix the "suck" part or the cost part -- it just shifts where the bill goes.

So, a whole bunch of U.S. citizens, myself included, now are paying more and getting less coverage. That is neither any way to get re-elected nor any way to run a country. Typically screwing your constituents does not work well for elections, and that played a much bigger role in the last election than most realize (or want to admit).

Amazon Benefits

I think Jeff Bezos gets this -- it's not rocket science. He likely understands that if the government really is not going to step up (it still is arguing over who pays, not the amount on the bill) then a heavy-hitting corporation must.

Amazon has the reach and capability to reduce healthcare costs massively through better records management; implementation of aggressive artificial intelligence-based diagnoses or diagnosis validation; ability to negotiate better drug prices; scalable AI-based patent monitoring; and policies that could address abuses, such as the overuse of painkillers, more effectively.

Individual benefits would include better and more comprehensive access to medical records; programmatic analysis of those records, triggering proactive medical procedures; more aggressive health monitoring; and far broader access to emerging medical technology and drugs.

Amazon has the capability both to lower healthcare costs and raise performance, so that Americans no longer would be paying the most for healthcare while being outranked in performance by 72 countries whose citizens pay less, often far less.

The Problems With Amazon

Amazon already has gained an inordinate amount of power, and there have been signs of organizational abuse. I personally experienced it when I questioned a series of charges on a little-used credit card, and Amazon suddenly dropped me, with no warning, back into the pre-Echo dark ages. I'm still rebuilding the damage it did, even though it reinstated me last year.

David Caulton covers the same topic, but Amazon is hardly the only big company to abuse its power. Our own Mick Brady got kicked in the butt by AT&T, the brand that keeps on giving.

With Amazon increasingly handling everything its customers consume, a dispute with the company could result not only in the loss of Echo functionality, but also in access to critical healthcare.

You dispute a bill and have a heart attack, you likely will be dead -- and that level of control would be unprecedented except for the harshest of governments, let alone a retailer.

Without far stronger customer controls, I have my doubts whether Amazon's foray into healthcare will end well rather than becoming just another, deadlier, problem for many American consumers.

Amazon's Problems

Consumers are not the only ones with problems. Amazon is moving into one of the most heavily regulated areas in the United States and one of the areas with some of the strongest lobbies (pharmaceuticals).

In addition, thanks to also owning The Washington Post, Bezos is not exactly close to the current administration. The result is that getting through regulatory approval and not suddenly finding a whole bunch of new and old laws positioned against this effort may be problematic.

Once the government goes after one part of Amazon, the effort could spread more broadly to the overall business. So just bringing this service to market, given how many resources will be focused on stopping it, could be impossible.

Wrapping Up: Living on the Bleeding Edge

There are many billionaires who live on the bleeding edge. Massively used, not that concerned with profits, but aggressively pushing expansion, they are one blunder away from disaster. Elon Musk, Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos all have been playing this high-stakes game of musical chairs -- each pushing the envelope in terms of investment, expansion and risk.

Bezos has stepped away from this risk a bit, as Amazon's current stunning financials showcase. Offsetting this somewhat is pressure from the LGBT community that resulted from Amazon including among possible locations for its new headquarters many that were viewed as anti-LGBT. (Amazon has been supportive of LGBT issues in the past.)

Moving into healthcare is just Amazon's latest aggressive move, but it could be a move too far. It already has been having customer care issues, it is at odds with the current administration, and it will face a ton of opposition because of the needed disruption it would cause.

Potentially, Amazon could fix healthcare -- but it also could kill a bunch of people accidentally in the process. It is that latter outcome that has me very concerned.

I have been a huge fan of the modular computer concept -- the idea that you could have some kind of core technology that you could accessorize, turning it into something else.

The first time I saw this concept was at an IBM ThinkPad Advisory Council Meeting in the late 1990s, and it is interesting that the Motorola Moto Z now is owned by the same company that now owns ThinkPad -- Lenovo.

I think the Moto Z concept is better idea than the iPhone X concept -- not only for users but also for Apple. One big reason is that it's a ton cheaper at around US$750. (I found refurbished versions for as little as $322 on Amazon.)

This is because the Moto Z has a much stronger accessories opportunity, allowing users to customize their phones better and giving the manufacturer a stronger revenue opportunity after the phone is sold.

Moto Z2 Force

The Moto Z Force should outperform the new iPhone X. It has a stronger processor and none of that questionable battery- or modem-crippling software that Apple uses. It also has a screen that should be more resistant to breaking, and the broader choice of accessories the Moto line is famous for. Further, it too has a brilliant AMOLED display.

Accessories that generally attach to the back of the phone include a 360-degree camera, Polaroid-like printer, Alexa-powered smart speaker, gamepad, sound booster, JBL Speaker, several power packs, wireless charging, Hasselblad lens zoom camera back, and a projector (so you can watch Netflix on your wall).

Given this is the best modular computer I have ever tested, the Moto Z2 Force is my product of the week.

Rob Enderle has been an ECT News Network columnist since 2003. His areas of interest include AI, autonomous driving, drones, personal technology, emerging technology, regulation, litigation, M&E, and technology in politics. He has undergrad degrees in merchandising and manpower management, and an MBA in human resources, marketing and computer science. He is also a certified management accountant. Enderle currently is president and principal analyst of the Enderle Group, a consultancy that serves the technology industry. He formerly served as a senior research fellow at Giga Information Group and Forrester. Email Rob.

Morocco was re-elected unanimously as President of the African Water Association (AfWA) for a second term through 2020.

The re-election of Morocco, in the person of the acting Director General of the Electricity and Drinking Water Office (ONEE), Abderrahim El Hafidi, took place at the Associations General Assembly held in Bamako, on Saturday.

This vote evidences renewed confidence placed in Morocco to continue to lead this prestigious association, Abderrahim El Hafidi said in a statement to the Moroccan news agency.

This re-election is a recognition of Moroccos unique capacities in the field of water management, he added.

The AfWA General Assembly looked at ways to address the challenges related to access to drinking water and development of sanitation infrastructures, El Hafidi said.

He noted that the progress made by Morocco in matters of access to drinking water has attracted the attention of all the member countries of the Association and that many of them have expressed the wish to benefit from the Kingdoms long experience.

He recalled in this regard, that Morocco, which built the first drinking water treatment plant in 1969 in Bouragreg, will soon commission another plant in Oum Azza, in the vicinity of capital Rabat. He also recalled that the Moroccan water quality control laboratory has international standards.

The African Water Association (AFWA) is a Pan-African association, mustering water utilities and governmental agencies from all African countries. AfWA provides capacity reinforcement to its members to enable the supply of clean drinking water and sanitation services to all, in an efficient manner. It informs its members about the results of studies, research, and surveys in all branches of activity in the drinking water, sanitation, and environment sector and seeks to promote the exchange of information on methods, processes and procedures of drinking water production, supply and sanitation.

Africa, home to the second driest area of land on earth  Wadi Halfa, in Sudan  and being the second driest continent in the world, urgently needs an action plan that would solve endemic water scarcity. Currently, one-third of the continents inhabitants lack access to safe drinking water.

In November last year, Morocco tabled its Water for Africa initiative at the African Ministers Council on Water (AMCOW) in Nigeria. The initiative aims at encouraging and mobilizing political, financial, and institutional actors to design and implement a priority action plan for water security of the African continent.

Water for Africa also seeks to improve the living conditions of African peoples by strengthening their resilience to the effects of climate change.

The ministerial council adopted the Moroccan initiative and integrated it into its work agenda.PORTO  Portuguese textile manufacturer Tintex noted significant interest from international fashion brands for the first time at the recent ISPO show in Munich, with its recently launched B.Cork water-based laminated fabrics said to have been popular with buyers.

First launched at Performance Days in November, the laminated fabric coating derived from cork can be applied to both woven or knit fabrics and is said to be breathable  while also claiming strong environmental credentials given that all of the materials would have otherwise gone unused and straight to landfill.OSLO  A study has been published regarding the ways in which Life Cycle Assessments evaluate different textile fibres, with a particular emphasis on wool. One of the more significant recommendations is the call to include the use phase in LCA criteria, rather than just the manufacturing process.

The report was commissioned by Australian Wool Innovation Limited (AWI), International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) and Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), and would appear to be the next stage of the wool industrys drive to introduce a revised ranking system.By Sam Schipani

Last year was not a good one for the North Atlantic right whale. Seventeen of them were discovered to have died, about 4 percent of a total population of 455. Numbers have been low for decadesthe species was declared endangered in 1973but if the current trend continues, the North Atlantic right whale, one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world, could go extinct by 2040.

In response, the Center for Biological Diversity, Defenders of Wildlife and the American Humane Society are suing the U.S. Department of Commerce, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Fisheries and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). According to the complaint filed on Jan. 18, entanglements from lobster trap lines and other commercial fishing gear unduly jeopardize the dwindling whale populations and breach the species' right to protection under the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

The lobster industry has long been implicated in North Atlantic right whale mortality. Passing whales can easily become entangled in lobster fishing gearand when they do, their deaths can be slow, painful and gruesome. The heavy fishing line, which is often still connected to the clunky lobster traps, can wrap around a whale's head, mouth, flippers, or tail. Entangled whales either drown, unable to surface for air, or the remaining line impedes their feeding and reproduction while causing festering infections. Entanglements have been responsible for 85 percent of all North Atlantic right whale deaths since 2010. Now, climate change is making matters worse.

The Gulf of Maine is one of the fastest warming bodies of water on the planet. Lobster populations have migrated north to warmer waters, resulting in catches that are more lucrative in Maine than in other areas of the Atlantic. Maine's lobster industry is boomingthe state currently catches more than 80 percent of all lobsters caught in the U.S. This means that lobstermen are setting more traps just as more North Atlantic right whales are showing up, following the warmer waters north to feed. The shifting habitats and increase in fishing has led to a "perfect storm of mortalities of right whales," said Richard Pace, a large-whale researcher at NOAA's Northeast Fisheries Science Center. In 2016, Maine set a record when the state harvested more than 130 million pounds of crustaceans. With the global appetite for lobster steadily increasing, the question of how the lobster industry can help prevent whale deaths is ever more pressing.

"The right whale situation has really become a crisis," said Kristen Monsell, a senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. "Entanglement in commercial fishing gear is now the number one cause of the species' critically endangered status, and the federal government needs to do everything in its power if we're going to save these amazing animals from going extinct."

North Atlantic right whales are not just majestic; they also play an important role in marine ecosystems. They help to support the production of plankton, which is the very base of the food web and gives us half the oxygen we breathe. Whales also help sustain fish stock and cycle nutrients throughout the marine food web.

"[The North Atlantic right whale] is a unique species. It is only found along the East Coast of the U.S. and Canada. It doesn't live anywhere else in the world," commented Regina Asmutis-Silvia, executive director of Whale and Dolphin Conservation. "If we not only have an obligation to protect them, we should selfishly want to protect them because we need them."

Historically, Maine's lobster industry has managed lobster populations sustainably. That, plus lobster populations scuttling northward, has likely contributed to its success compared to other American lobster fisheries. A report by the Gulf of Maine Research Institute details how Maine lobstermen achieved record hauls with a decades-old conservation strategy. They only use trapsno dragging or diving allowedand the traps must have slats for juvenile lobsters and biodegradable hatches to release lobsters if the trap is lost. Large, egg-carrying females are returned to the sea marked with a "v notch" in their tail to signal to other lobstermen that the lobster is off limits.

But when it comes to whales, Maine's lobster industry is subject to less regulation than other parts of the northeastern coast. About 71 percent of Maine's waters are exempt from NOAA Fisheries' Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Planwhich requires modifications like marking gear and sink rope to reduce the industry's impact on whalesunder the rationale that whales are not present in the exempted areas, such as bays, harbors and inlets.

The federal government has been grappling with how to regulate the industry to prevent whale deaths for almost a decade. In 2009, legislation required lobstermen to replace all floating rope on groundlines with sinking rope, which is less likely to entangle whales. In 2015, a new federal rule went into effect requiring lobstermen to use up to 15 traps with each buoy when fishing beyond designated exemption lines off Maine's coast. The legislation was designed to reduce the number of vertical lines in the water column and, thus, reduce the chance that whales would get entangled.

The regulations immediately drew ire from lobstermen across the state. "The prohibition on float rope has increased the cost of business for Maine's lobster industry, which is already subject to increasing costs of fuel and bait," said Jeff Nichols, communications director at the Maine Department of Marine Resources. "Sink rope has been shown to wear out much faster than float rope, which results in the need to replace the rope more often and has led to more gear loss because sink rope has been shown to get caught on the rocky bottom and break."

Worse still, the sinking rope and vertical line legislation didn't prevent whale deaths. In 2016, researchers from the New England Aquarium, Woods Hole and other institutions released a paper concluding that there is no evidence that current fishing regulations have been effective at reducing mortality in whales. Becky Bartovics, executive committee member at the Sierra Club's Maine Chapter, cited a lack of both proper science and consultation of local knowledge as the cause of the legislative blunder. "I'm sure the intention was to reduce the number of lines going to the bottom, but 15 traps weigh a lot." That weight, if entangled with a whale, will certainly kill the animaland it puts stress on the fishermen, too.

In light of these ineffective attempts to address whale mortality, local lobstermen and conservationists alike are wary of new legislation. "Many times the scientists have come up with a solution without working with the lobstermen," Bartovics said. "That's why the lobstermen are frustrated." The lobster community in Maine has been open to other solutions. A 2014 study showed that red and orange ropes are more visible to right whales and could reduce entanglements; according to Bartovics, some lobstermen have started spraying red paint on their ropes to do just that.

The lawsuit filed in January aims to hold fisheries accountable for North Atlantic right whales' deaths and, ultimately, put more mitigation efforts in place

"The long-term goal is to figure this out across fisheries and across species. The goal is not to shut down fisheries," Asmutis-Silvia said. "There are no bad guys here. We need to work together to figure out a solution."

Reposted with permission from our media associate SIERRA Magazine.Ninety percent of the minke whales hunted and killed each year in Norwegian waters are female and " almost all" of them are pregnant, according to a documentary aired earlier this month on NRK, a government-owned public broadcasting company.

The documentary, Slaget om kvalen ("Battle of Agony"), shows grisly footage of Norway's whaling industry, including one bloody scene where a fisherman cuts open a whale and removes its fetus.

The release of the documentary has sparked intense outcry from conservation groups in light of Norway's long-standing objection to the International Whaling Commission's (IWC) 1986 ban on commercial whaling.

"Whale hunting is now even more unacceptable," the head of Greenpeace Norway, Truls Gulowsen, told AFP.

"On the one hand because it's in violation of an international ban but also because ... it's indefensible from the point of view of the animal's well-being to hunt them during an advanced stage of gestation."

The estimated present population of minke whales is more than one million.

Norway is the world's top whaling nation, and has a quota to kill 999 minke whales during the 2017 hunting season, up from its quota of 880 whales in 2016.

A 2016 joint report from the Animal Welfare Institute, OceanCare and Pro Wildlife found that in 2014 and 2015, Norway killed more whales than Japan and Iceland combined.

"We have a professional approach and therefore we don't think about it," said Dag Myklebust, the captain and harpoonist on the Norwegian fishing vessel Kato.

He added that the fact that they are pregnant "is a sign of good health," Myklebust added.

An expert told NRK that the killing of pregnant animals is common.

"Lots of slaughtered animals are sent to the slaughterhouse when they are pregnant," said Egil Ole Oen, a veterinarian who specializes in whale hunting.

Norway and Iceland are the only countries that continue to hunt whales despite the IWC's moratorium. Japan also conducts whaling for "research" reasons.

Last year, Japan faced similar scrutiny after its whaling fleet came back with 333 dead minke whales, including 230 that were female and 90 percent of the mature females pregnant.

Animal rights groups remarked that the killing of pregnant whales is especially egregious because it affects the next generation.

"It is horrific to learn that such a high rate of the whales killed in Norway are female and pregnant," OceanCare said in a statement to AFP.

"The whalers are not only killing the current but also part of the next generation of whales," it added.

Astrid Fuchs, the program lead at Whale and Dolphin Conservation said that "the revelations of the film are absolutely shocking."

"Given the fact that a vast majority of the whales is pregnant, the minister's proposed doubling of the quota would mean close to 4,000 whales could be slaughtered each year in European waters," Fuchs noted about Norway's fisheries minister, Per Sandberg, who proposed to double the number of minke whales killed to nearly 2,000 and sell the meat to the European Union.

So how can you help stop this gruesome practice?



In an email to EcoWatch, Gulowsen of Greenpeace Norway suggested contacting the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC) about your opposition to the slaughtering of pregnant minke whales. The state-owned NSC is the world's largest generic marketing company for seafood and works to "safeguard" the Norwegian fisheries "positive image"meaning they probably do not want the negative PR about its whaling industry.

"Although whale products are not exported, the seafood business is part of one large state/private operations, where they are all mutually responsible for each others practices," Gulowsen pointed out.



The Animal Welfare Institute is also urging its supporters to write to Kare R. Aas, Norway's ambassador to the U.S., "to let him know that you are opposed to his country's continued killing of minke whales" and to "encourage him to support responsible whale watching instead."

Queen Elizabeth II is banning plastic straws and bottles across the royal estates.

The Telegraph reported that the monarch is behind Buckingham Palace's plans to phase out single-use plastics from public cafes, royal residences and staff dining rooms.

Royal caterers will instead use china plates and glasses or recyclable paper cups. Takeaway food from the Royal Collection cafes must be made of compostable or biodegradable packaging.

"Across the organization, the Royal Household is committed to reducing its environmental impact," a palace spokesman said, according to the Telegraph.

"As part of that, we have taken a number of practical steps to cut back on the use of plastics. At all levels, there's a strong desire to tackle this issue."

The Queen was reportedly inspired to take action after working with famed naturalist Sir David Attenborough on a conservation documentary about wildlife in the Commonwealth.

Attenborough's "Blue Planet II" documentary that aired last year highlighted the devastating effects of plastic on our oceans and marine life.

The Royal family is dedicated to a number of environmental causes. Last year, Prince Charles helped launch a $2 million competition to stop the 8 million tons of plastics from entering our oceans each year, which Charles described as an "escalating ecological and human disaster."

British lawmakers are also urging for more action to fight plastic pollution. A ban on microbeads came into force in Britain last month, an initiative that will "stop billions of pieces of plastic entering our ecosystem, helping to protect our precious seas and oceans," Prime Minister Theresa May tweeted then.

In 2015, a 5p (5 British pennies) fee was introduced on plastic carrier bags, which led to 9 billion fewer bags being used.

"It's making a real difference," May said of the bag fee. "We want to do the same with single use plastics."

Many businesses in the UK are getting on board with cutting out plastics. Starbucks recently introduced a 5p disposable cup charge in 20 to 25 central London outlets to encourage customers to switch to reusable cups. And Iceland Foods, a major UK supermarket chain specializing in frozen food, announced that it will eliminate plastic packaging from its own brand of products by the end of 2023.President Donald Trump boasted "a big week for infrastructure" Monday as the White House announced its long-awaited $1.5 trillion plan to improve the nation's roads, buildings and power supplies.



Infrastructure is usually a bipartisan, consensus issue, but environmental groups criticized the White House's initiative, as it involves a drastic rollback of federal environmental review to shorten the process of approving infrastructure projects.

"President Trump's infrastructure proposal is a disaster," Shelley Poticha, the managing director of the Healthy People & Thriving Communities Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council, said in a statement. "It fails to offer the investment needed to bring our country into the 21st century. Even worse, his plan includes an unacceptable corporate giveaway by truncating environmental reviews."

Regulatory oversight for infrastructure projects usually falls to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies. Instead, the White House plan calls for the creation of a "one agency, one decision" scheme, or one lead federal agency to streamline environmental review and the permitting process within 21 months.

As Trump said last month in his State of the Union address: "Any bill must also streamline the permitting and approval processgetting it down to no more than two years, and perhaps even one."

The Wilderness Society has also listed a number of concerns about the infrastructure blueprint:

 Dismantling basic environmental safeguards. The leaked version of Trump infrastructure plan would eviscerate the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by collapsing time lines, freezing out experts and delegating federal authority to states and private interests. NEPA provides for the essential public review process for federal projects. Billed as "streamlining," the infrastructure proposal steamrolls over a wide array of safeguards that protect the nation's air, waters and land.

 Pipelines through parks. The infrastructure plan would give Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke the authority to approve natural gas pipeline routes that cut through national parks.

 Paying for infrastructure by selling off public lands. The White House document on infrastructure called "Funding Principles" included a section titled Disposition of Federal Real Property." That provision would give the president authority to use executive orders for "disposal of Federal assets to improve the overall allocation of economic resources in infrastructure investment."

"With this infrastructure plan, President Trump would line the pockets of oil and gas companies while steamrolling environmental safeguards," said Drew McConville, senior managing director at The Wilderness Society, in a statement. "He is taking a bipartisan priority and turning it into a divisive scheme to reward friends in the fossil fuel sector."

The Trump administration has already targeted more than 60 environmental regulations, including an Obama-era rule that protects infrastructure projects from flooding and rising sea levels exacerbated by climate change.

"With such a public record of promoting the interests of corporate polluters over communities and the environment, no one should be fooled by Trump's infrastructure scam," the Center for American Progress noted last month. "It is little more than a Trojan horse designed to gut the environmental protections that are necessary for the clean air, clean water, wildlife and national parks that truly make America great."

Finally, as the New York Times pointed out, an infrastructure strategy led by an administration that denies climate change and has reversed critical environmental protections could mean that costly new infrastructure projects may be quickly rendered obsolete by the impacts of a warming planet.

"The impact of not considering climate change when planning infrastructure means you end up building the wrong thing, in the wrong place, to the wrong standards," Michael Kuby, a professor of geographical sciences and urban planning at Arizona State University and contributing author to the National Climate Assessment, told the publication. "That's a whole lot of waste."San Juan, Puerto Rico

Five months since Hurricane Maria struck this U.S. territory and disrupted an already-struggling school system, different education leaders are speaking the same basic language: They want more and better educational opportunities for the islands 320,000 public school students.

But there are big and potentially irreconcilable disagreements between those leaders about the best way to provide those opportunities. Some involve education policy arguments familiar to schools on the U.S. mainland. Other potentially difficult debates, however, deal with issues like the basic, day-to-day learning environment of Puerto Ricos schools.

Just a week ago, Gov. Ricardo Rossello released a plan that would create new alianza schools very similar to charters as part of broader education overhaul legislation. Puerto Rican law currently does not allow for charters. His proposal also includes a $1,500 annual teacher-pay raise, which would be the first in roughly a decade.

And a separate plan from Rossello released late last month, with the backing of Secretary of Education Julia Keleher, would close more than 300 public schools, out of about 1,100, as part of an effort by Puerto Ricos government to get a handle on its troubled finances. (That and other proposals must first be approved by other governing bodies on the island, including the Legislative Assembly.)

Keleher is also continuing her long-standing push to decentralize the Puerto Rico education departments power and give local K-12 officials more authority, even as the prospect of choice and school closures grab headlines.

Complete Coverage: Putting Puerto Ricos Schools Back on Track

Weve still got a long way to go, but weve come a good distance since the hurricane, Keleher said in a recent interview here. Its been a real leadership challenge for me to try to set and manage expectations.

See Also Crumbling Classrooms and Power Outages: Inside Puerto Ricos Storm-Damaged Schools

Such proposals to close current schools and open new, nontraditional ones are anathema to others in the education community, including the islands teachers union, the Asociacion de Maestros de Puerto Rico. Both the charter school and school-closure plans followed an extended tug of war over the speed at which schools were reopened in the wake of the hurricane.

Ready for a Fight

The school closure plan, which has Kelehers backing, came out the same week as a Puerto Rico education department report that about 85 percent of teachers and students have returned to schools post-Maria, though those numbers vary significantly depending on the region. In Bayamon, for example, just outside of San Juan, only about two-thirds of teachers and students were reportedly back as of late last month. That means closures impact could vary widely if they were to occur.

On that and other issues, Keleher is moving fast, and shes shown that shes not afraid of causing conflict along the way.

She helped draft Rossellos education plan and says that its ultimately a balancing act: I see it as a carefully constructed road map to manage not only the situation but our access to human resources.

To underscore the need for such a reassessment of resources, she highlights the parents who text her complaining that their children lack teachers while other schools have a surplus of educators. Puerto Rico cant afford to have schools where 95 percent of a schools costs is going to salaries, she stressed.

At the same time, Keleher pointed out how she planned to secure $6,400 in funding per student, which she said was unprecedented. She has previously said that allocations fluctuated wildly, with some schools getting $7,000 per student and others just $2,000.

More big changes beyond charters are potentially coming down the road. Vouchers [are] definitely going to be part of the reform. Its not something we can execute immediately, Keleher said, because of the islands troubled budget books.

In her view, people who grew up in Puerto Rico and are now in their 50s got a good public education, but those who are now in the system deserve a better education, especially but not exclusively because of Hurricane Marias damage. And she has little patience for skeptics who she says lack their own data-driven alternatives to her ideas, including those who have protested school closures.

Im fully aware that there may be points in the journey that the adults are not happy with the decisions that I make, said Keleher, who has been secretary for a little more than a year after previously working in Puerto Rico for the U.S. Department of Education. I cant have a situation where a student doesnt have access to a teacher and theres an excess of teachers in [another] location.

Keleher added that if Puerto Rican parents demands to have better schools provokes a corresponding conflict with a set of adults, then I am excited by that opportunity.

Fears Growing

Keleher doesnt lack critics, including in the leadership of the islands teachers union.

Some educators are worried about whether they will have their jobs in a few months. The number of proposed school closures has caught them off guard. They worry that the close-and-revamp approach to many schools will lead to a downward spiral in which more teachers move to the U.S. mainland, leaving their former students and parents in the lurch.

In a message reacting to Rossellos proposal, the Federacion de Maestros de Puerto Rico, an activist group of educators who have protested Kelehers actions, said his administration just declared war on the education of our children and the teachers by announcing the privatization of schools through the failed charter model.

And to summarize their most fundamental fears, critics say the plans from Rossello and Keleher amount to a push to privatize education at a time when better public schools, and more public schools, are needed.

Its like saying, We are not going to give you the right to education,  the Asociacion de Maestros de Puerto Ricos Toledo said.

Toledo, whose group is an American Federation of Teachers affiliate, expressed particular concern for students in rural, mountainous areas. If schools in those regions close, she argued, many students would have to travel 45 minutes to the nearest schoolassuming that one doesnt close. Many parents, she said, wont accept that change and could leave the island.

Rumors and anxiety about what the department is up to are spreading.

In early February, teachers in Puerto Rico were sharing a list of soon-to-be-shuttered schools on social media, a list that Kelehers department has said is false. The names of the 300 or so schools that would be closed under Rossellos plan are set to be released at the end of March, the secretary said.

Even the governors proposed raise for teachers doesnt match what many teachers expect at this point. Toledo said teachers deserve pay increases so that their salaries rise to $3,000 a month on average. By contrast, Rossellos proposal would increase the average teacher salary to $2,325 monthly, or a $125 monthly increase from current pay levels. And thats not the only material shortfall she said needs to be addressed.

We dont have books. We dont have computers. We dont have access to so many resources that the schools in the States have. Thats what upsets us, Toledo said.

Lax Approach

Some of the struggles deal with Hurricane Marias aftermath, not traditional hot-button policy issues.

Schools have so far received only temporary structural repairs, Keleher noted. And schools that need permanent fixes wont get them this school year. She laments that she doesnt have generators and solar panels to offer to all schools. As of late last month, about a third of the islands schools were without power, and some only had it intermittently.

I wish I had in hand generators and solar panels for each of the schools. I wish the timeline for school repairs wasnt what it is, Keleher said.

But the secretary also isnt shy about criticizing what she calls a broad cultural problem in some schools: students who are at school but who dont go to class and mill around in hallways or elsewhere.

It was striking to me when I first saw it and it continues to be a concern. But its not solely a consequence of the hurricane, Keleher said. Theres a culture in some of the school buildings that allows for that sense of disconnectedness. Theres sort of a lax approach to managing the day and managing the time.

Kelehers background is also still the subject of discussion. Toledo raises, unprompted, the surprise some in Puerto Rico felt when Rossello appointed Keleher as secretary over a year ago because she is from the mainland United States and is not a native Puerto Rican.

And ultimately, Toledos union is worried that Puerto Rican leaders want to let the schools go down the hill in order to replace them with the model of schooling they want that includes charters and vouchers, Toledo said.

Veteran educator Isabel Rodriguez Santos is of two minds.

Puerto Ricos 2007 Teacher of the Year still teaches marketing and business administration at Dr. Maria Cadilla High School in Arecibo, about an hour west of San Juan, but she is in the middle of her own transition out of the classroom to oversee other educators. In early October, just a few weeks after the hurricane, she expressed hope that the islands teachers would remain and help the schools recover.

Her school has power and internet access, and she is able to teach with the lights on. However, when she looks at other schools that are struggling and are clustered close together in some areas, she said she understands that changes may be inevitable.

The schools are part of the community. So when you close a school, the people start to make some hard statements about the decision. But I understand that it is a difficult time, she said. The government has to make a difficult decision.Less than two years after members of the L.A. school board chose a superintendent from the districts ranks, they now find themselves in search of a new oneand the task may be harder than ever.

The nations second-largest school system has a dizzying array of problems, but the board is divided on how to solve them. Meanwhile, there arent many candidates considered qualified for such a daunting job, and those who are may be getting other offers.

The challenge of improving large urban school districtsand of keeping the job for more than a year or twocan be seen in the job openings. New York City, the nations largest school system, also is searching for a superintendent. So was Chicago, the third-largest district, until a new leader recently was hired.

Being a superintendent today is a very different job than 10 or 20 years ago, said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers. There are lots of high expectations, few resources, and very few people on the bench who really understand education.

Supt. Michelle King recently announced that she has cancer and will not return from medical leave. A career district employee, her selection was considered an attempt by board members to restore calm and focus after years of tumult. It was also a milestone: King was the first African American woman to run the district .

But during her brief tenure, neither King nor the school board ever developed a detailed set of plans to improve the districts schools. Many wondered about the practically of her focus on 100 percent graduation"her mantra while in office.

This time around, the board could choose an insider again. If it doesnt, the pool of well-regarded superintendents of other large, urban school districts is limited.

Big-city superintendents tenures tend to be short a 2014 study by the Council of the Great City Schools found they spend an average of just over three years in the joband it is often difficult to determine how effective they have been.

The constant churn makes certain people perennial candidates. Some of the same names are being floated in both L.A. and New York City. They include Rudolph Crew, who led New York Citys schools in the late 90s; Alberto Carvalho, the superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools since 2008; and Andres Alonso, who was chief executive for six years of Baltimore City Public Schools before becoming a professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

The two big school districts selection processes and political dynamics are markedly different.

New York Citys 1,800 public schools are under mayoral control, a system that gives Mayor Bill de Blasio complete authority to choose the next chancellor. This virtually assures that candidates there will reflect de Blasios political leanings, favoring public sector unions and more traditional approaches over market-based education reform ideas. They must also be content to finish out the remaining years of de Blasios second term, knowing that the next mayor will probably appoint someone new.

L.A. Unifieds seven-member board makes the choice, which makes it more complicated, both politically and practically. Last years elections upended the school boards balance of power, weakening the unions influence and empowering a four-person majority elected with the backing of wealthy charter school supporters. Charter-school advocates celebrated, hopeful that sweeping changes were coming.

Then in September, local prosecutors filed criminal charges against board member Ref Rodriguez, who is accused of laundering campaign money and is under investigation for separate conflict-of-interest allegations. Rodriguez has pleaded not guilty to the charges and he remains a voting member of the board, which has led to speculation that the existing majority could still choose a superintendent who favors aggressive changes, such as increasing the number of charter schools and using standardized tests to evaluate teachers and principals.

If Rodriguez were forced out of office, the board would have no clear majority, a possibility that could lead its members to opt for a more moderate consensus pick.

This board is looking for long-term stability, said Carl Cohn, a former superintendent of Long Beach Unified and San Diego Unified, who now works with school districts such as L.A. Unified. That involves navigating the politics of a board of education, successfully getting along with unions, and strong stakeholder engagement in terms of direct contact with parents and local advocacy and civil rights groups.

Candidates likely to appeal to a politically divided board cant hold extreme views on charter schools, said Pedro Noguera, a professor at the Graduate School of Education and Information Studies at UCLA. As long as the person is perceived to be neither charter hostile or overly friendly, they should not be ruled out as a candidate, he wrote in an email.

According to multiple sources, who requested anonymity to discuss a secretive process, some names being discussed for L.A. include Miguel Santana, L.A.'s former chief administrative officer, who has advised the school board on financial matters; Joan Sullivan, chief executive officer of the Partnership for L.A. Schools, a nonprofit that oversees 18 district schools; and Matt Hill, superintendent of the Burbank Unified School District.

Candidates within the district include Chief Academic Officer Frances Gipson and Acting Supt. Vivian Ekchian.

There is recent precedent for picking a homegrown leader. In Chicago, Mayor Rahm Emanuel has burned through three public school chief executives during his tenure. Forrest Claypool, the latest to resign, had previously served as Emanuels chief of staff.

In December, the mayor named Janice Jackson , one of the districts top administrators and a graduate of the citys schools, as acting chief executive officer. She was formally appointed this month.

One factor that is likely to loom large in the selection of L.A.'s next superintendent is the districts budget woes.

While New York Citys public student population has held steady at 1.1 million, L.A. Unified has been losing students for more than a decade to charter schools, declining birth rates, and rising housing costs that have priced low-income families out of many neighborhoods. The districts enrollment is directly linked to the amount of state funding it receives, and it is tanking. As one district official put it, L.A. Unified is losing the equivalent of a small school district each year.

At the same time, the districts pension and retiree healthcare costs are swallowing an ever greater portion of its funding.

L.A. will wind up bankrupt if it does not put in place a system that looks at evidence in funding programs that are successful, said Ramon Cortines, who served three separate stints as the districts superintendent. Were past the point where a modest amount of tweaking will do the job. It wont work.

In addition to having to win over board members, superintendents here, as in other large school districts, face unending scrutiny from the media and the public, demands from labor unions and politicians, and outsized expectations. The job pays wellL.A.'s superintendent makes $350,000 a yearbut is no match for private-sector salaries.

Youre being pushed in every direction by every constituency that exists, said Jean-Claude Brizard, who was named chief executive of Chicagos public schools in 2011. He resigned after 17 months.Many of us have had the experience, when sitting in a foreign language class or visiting another country, of fumbling for the words to convey our thoughts.

In a brilliant essay from his book Me Talk Pretty One Day , comedic writer David Sedaris describes a discussion about Easter that took place in his conversational French class. His teacher asked who brings chocolate on Easter morning, and Sedaris answered, The Rabbit of Easter.

A rabbit? The teacher, assuming Id used the wrong word, positioned her index fingers on top of her head, wiggling them as though they were ears. You mean one of these? A rabbit rabbit?

Well, sure, I said. He come in the night when one sleep on a bed. With a hand he have the basket and foods.

The teacher sadly shook her head, as if this explained everything that was wrong with my country. No, no, she said. Here in France the chocolate is brought by the big bell that flies in from Rome.

I called for a time-out. But how do the bell know where you live?

Well, she said, how does a rabbit?

This demented conversationwith its various semantic and cultural misunderstandingsprovides a window into the struggle our English-language learners face every day.

There are plenty of hard things about school for all kids. Too many tests, too much sitting, too little recess. But for English learners, there is an added layer of difficulty. The constant effort to understand and make yourself understood can be exhausting.

All 25 of my students speak either Spanish or Marshallese at home. Here are five ways Ive found to make school a little easier for them.

1. Get them laughing.

Many of us have observed how much better we speak a foreign languageor at least think we dowhen weve had a few glasses of wine. Alcohol lowers the affective filter, that barrier of embarrassment, self-consciousness, and fear of looking foolish that can stifle our thoughts and trip up our tongues.

Kids dont have that option for lowering their affective filter, but we can help lower it in other ways. One of the best is to get them giggling, then laughing out loud. Its hard to feel anxious when youre cracking up.

Have your students sing silly songs. Read hilarious books aloud like the Elephant and Piggie series by Mo Willems or the chapter on whizzpoppers from Roald Dahls The B.F.G.

Dont be afraid to be ridiculous. Last week during our shared reading time, I had covered up the letters between b and s in the word bones for the sentence, Jellyfish dont have b____s. My 1st graders tried to guess a word with those beginning and ending sounds that would also make sense in context. When I suggested, butts?, they roared with laughter. (True fact, by the way. Jellyfish have neither bones nor butts.)

2. Warm them up.

When I taught a class of new arrivals to California from Tibet, Japan, South Korea, and other countries, wed start our day with a game called Invisible Ball. We sat in a circle and pretended to pass a ball from one child to the next without talking. The ball could change sizes, squishing down to a marble or expanding to a boulder-sized sphere that almost crushed you under its weight. It was a great way to get the kids engaged in a warm-up activity that didnt require them to say a word.

Shared reading can be a great warm-up, too. In that choral babble of the whole class reading together, no one has to feel self-conscious about their errors or pronunciation. Read Aloud can be a warm-up in the morning or a midday break, a time when kids can just sit and absorb the language without having to speak it. I also have my class do a think-pair-share at our morning meeting about some easy subjectwhat they like to do after school, or their favorite place in their house to readbefore we get into denser topics with academic language like characters or photosynthesis.

3. Make most of the talking happen with partners or small groups.

Most kids feel a little nervous when called on to speak in front of the whole class, and thats especially true for many English learners. It makes sense to equalize whole-class participation with methods other than raising hands, like pulling popsicle sticks that have the students names written on them. But if youre going to do that, have the kids do a think-pair-share first. That way they have the chance to practice the language theyre about to use before the daunting experience of talking in front of the whole class.

Its a good teaching practice, with all students but especially English learners, to do less teacher talk and more conversation and group work. The kids, not the teacher, are the ones who need practice speaking English. If you give them frequent think-pair-shares, partner work, and opportunities to work in small groups, theyll learn more, talk more, and feel less nervous as they develop their language abilities.

4. Dont let your frustration show.

There is no faster way to make a child clam up than to express anger or frustration. The affective filter clangs up like a gate.

I can find myself getting frustrated when a child isnt doing what I have asked her to doto get out her crayons, or to bring her clipboard and paper to the rug. I often assume shes not paying attention, when sometimes she simply didnt understand the directionseither because I talked too fast, used words she doesnt know yet, or because shes exhausted from trying to understand a foreign language all morning. Take a deep breath, slow down, and show your students the same grace you would want if you were taking an Algebra class in Russian.

5. Realize that more is going on in their minds than they can express.

One of the hardest parts about struggling with a foreign language is that you dont have the words to express your thoughts. At a dinner party where everyone is speaking French, I might have a deep observation about literature that sounds sophisticated in my head, but comes out in caveman talk: Me like books when they is good and not bad."

A 12-year-old English learner is capable of the same complexity of thought, innovative ideas, and profound questions as a native English speaker of the same age. But that adolescent English learner might be limited to the vocabulary of a 5-year-old until his speaking abilities catch up with his thoughts.

If you can give a child a chance to speak in his native language, do it. If you speak the childs native language, speak it with him once in awhile. If you speak the language like a toddler, even betterits a wonderful role reversal to have the words rolling off his tongue while you fumble and make mistakes.

If you can put together a small group once in awhile of kids who all speak the same language, especially for content areas like math or science, do it. Theres a pervasive idea that children will learn a new language faster if theyre forbidden from speaking their native language. The reality is that opportunities to speak your maternal language provide a bridge to difficult concepts by removing the language barrier.

English learners contribute a lot to our classroomscultural richness, a different perspective on the world, and a fresh take on language itself. We can make their days more joyful by taking the time to put ourselves in their shoes, then making the path a little easier for them to walk.2018-02-12

Maeci

Preventing and combating corruption, illegal trafficking, terrorism financing, organised crime, controlling illegal migration flows and protecting Brand Italy. These are the main areas of consolidated cooperation between the Guardia di Finanza (GdF) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) being discussed in the annual Meeting of Experts and Liaison Officers of the Guardia di Finanza seconded at different Italian Embassies in the world (Belgrade, Berne, Brasilia, Brussels, Buenos Aires, Cologne, London, Madrid, Moscow, New York, New Delhi, Ottawa, Panama, Paris, Beijing, Rabat, Vienna and Washington).

The Meeting, being held at the Farnesina's International Conference Hall, will open with remarks by Foreign Minister Angelino Alfano, the Commanding General of the Guardia di Finanza, Giorgio Toschi, and the Secretary General of the Foreign Ministry, Elisabetta Belloni.

Some of the speakers on the agenda will focus on the initiatives taken to fight corruption, counterfeiting activities abroad and protecting Brand Italy, which are the main areas of cooperation between the MAECI and the GdF. The two institutions cooperate in this context to promote the sharing of information and the exchange of good practices at international level, perform activities to protect made in Italy products and enrich the dialogue with the Authorities of Third Countries with information on the results obtained, with a view to promoting the Italian system at international level.

Another sector of close cooperation between the two institutions is the struggle against the financing of terrorist organizations and the enforcement of international sanctions (from 2015 Italy co-chairs with United States and Saudi Arabia the Counter ISIL Finance Group).

At national level, the MAECI and the GdF cooperate on developing and implementing the National Strategic Plan of the National Anti-Counterfeiting Council, of which they are both members.

After closing the plenary session, the Guardia di Finanza experts will hold technical meetings at the Farnesina to discuss in detail the political and legal aspects of the geographical locations in which they operate.'Like' us on Facebook Follow us:

Posted on: Feb 12, 2018



How Saint Manikkavasagar Melted into Shiva

Many years ago in an informal interaction with late Mrs. Rani Subramaniam, a sincere spiritual seeker from yesteryears, Bhagawan said, You don't have to read too much! Read whatever is necessary for inspiration.



Guiding her further, He said, Different authors will only confuse you with their contradictions. Great philosophical and intellectual discussions are of no use. If you want to read, study the lives of saints. It could be any faith: Christian, Muslim, or Hindu. They have gone on the path. They have done the spiritual journey. Their path is clear. They have known the pitfalls and the obstacles. Their life will indicate all the problems to you and how they ultimately came to be a good example.



This is exactly what Bhagawan has also told the students time and again. That is perhaps why in every drama staged by the students one always finds scenes from the lives of exalted devotees and servitors of the Lord.



In January, 2016, we started a series Saints  The Soul of India. Our first discussion was on Saint Andal. We now offer the second episode in this series, on a saint whose devotion to Lord Shiva has no parallel. His outpourings of love in the form of soul-stirring compositions continue to metamorphose millions of minds, taking them away from everything material to the joy of everything spiritual.



We hope and pray the story of this exemplar devotee Saint Manikkavasagar inspires us to attach ourselves to the Lord more than ever before and experience the bliss that we are perhaps yet to explore.



Presented below are edited highlights of a four-hour radio conversation between Radio Sai's Bishu Prusty (BP) and Radio Sai volunteer Mrs. Lalitha Shekhar (LS).

Part 01

BP: Manikkavasagar literally means one whose words are like rubies. How beautiful is this name!

LS: Of course. How can it not be beautiful when the Ocean of Beauty Himself has actually coined this name?

Prodigious Vadhavooraar Becomes the Powerful Prime Minister

BP: True, the story of Saint Manikkavasagar is so sublime and matchless. He was born in Vadhavoor (a little town 25 km to the north east of the current city of Madurai) to Brahmin parents who were staunch devotees of Lord Shiva.

His initial name was Vadhavooraar meaning, the one who belongs to Vadhavoor. As a child he was intelligent as well as well-mannered. He spoke softly with everyone and excelled in whatever he did.

By the time he was into his adulthood, his fame had spread to all parts of the town. The charm of his beautiful character impressed anyone who came in contact with him and soon by divine design, the king of the region, Raja Arimardana Pandian too heard about his greatness. So he called him to his palace.

When the king met him and spoke to him, he was so impressed that he immediately appointed him as his prime minister.

The Virtues That Made Vadhavooraar Victorious in Life

LS: Wow! This is so extraordinary. One meeting with the king and he becomes the most important man in his kingdom! This means, definitely there were some absolutely exceptional qualities in his character.

In fact I am reminded of a story that Swami once narrated about him. Apparently one day Vadhavooraar was walking from one city to another and it started raining heavily. It became dark too. He thought that it was better for him to find a place to rest and resume his journey after the rain subsided.

When he looked around, he saw a little house at a distance. When he went near he noticed that the house had a small portico in the front. Since it was not occupied, he went there. It was a good shelter to save him from the rain. He was tired too. So after a while he stretched his limbs and lay down.

The people of the house were possibly sleeping inside. A few minutes passed and he heard a sound. It was the frantic running of a man running in the rain.

Vadhavooraar could relate to the man's plight as a few minutes before he too was in the same position. So immediately he stepped out and called out to this desperate man and welcomed him to join him on the portico.

Actually there was not much space there as it was a small porch. The man wondered how two people could rest there. Seeing his worried face, Vadhavooraar immediately comforted him saying, This portico may not have enough space for two people to sleep but it has enough place for two people to sit. So don't worry. We will be comfortable.

Both of them now sat there with ease and Vadhavooraar continued to chant the Lord's name as was his usual practice. Soon they settled down to spend their night in this manner.

Just when they were about to close their eyes, all of sudden they heard the sounds of another man dashing through the waters. He too like the second person was hopelessly searching for some refuge to save himself from the deluge.

Again Vadhavooraar stepped out into the rain and beckoned to this person too to come to the little portico. Seeing this, the second man was a bit perplexed because there was hardly any space for a third person on that porch.

Sensing this, Vadhavooraar told him, Don't worry. There may not be enough place for three of us to sit here but there is ample space for all three to stand and be protected.

So saying he gladly welcomed the third person and the three of them indeed spent the night happily in the comfort of each other's warmth and love.

BP: Wow! This is the character of a cultured man. Swami says that culture is concern for others and Vadhavooraar had a heart which knew how to beat for others. This is in fact the most important trait of a man of good character.

LS: So true Bishu. The Dalai Lama once said, If you want to make others happy, practise compassion. If you want to make yourself happy, practise compassion. Swami too often emphasises that there is no dharma higher than daya or compassion.

No wonder, the king made him the prime minister instantly. He was indeed a beautiful confluence of intelligence as well as empathy.

The Emptiness Within That Lead Him to The Eternal

BP: Absolutely. But what also made him different from others is that even though now he had power, position, wealth and all the comforts that money can buy, somehow his mind was fixed on achieving something else. He was all the time seeking something beyond the material world.

This feeling of emptiness within was growing day by day and even though he was discharging his responsibilities to the king diligently, he was pining for something higher. This is the time he felt strongly the need for a guru. He wanted someone to guide him and to quench the thirst of his soul.

LS: That is the role of a guru  to take us to God, isn't it?

BP: Correct. Interestingly, during this period, the king entrusted him with a task. In fact he was the man whenever the king had an important job to get done.

The king heard that a group of Arab merchants had come to Thiruperundurai (a small town 100 km from Vadhavoor) and they had beautiful horses with them for sale. The king wanted some of these for his stable. So it was Vadhavooraar's job to select the best ones and buy them for the king.

Vadhavooraar was delighted to undertake this journey for the king because this was one good opportunity to go out. He felt that once he stepped out, he might find the one he had been looking for, have the chance to visit many sacred places on the way and perhaps even meet someone who could give him the answers that his soul sought.

LS: So, this job was a blessing in disguise for him.

BP: Oh yes. For him it was not a journey but a penance. He stopped at every temple on the way. He was carrying with him a lot of gold, money and plenty of resources that the king had given him but his mind was only on Lord Shiva. Finally he reached Thiruperundurai.

LS: This is where Vadhavooraar transformed into Manikkavasagar, right?

BP: Yes, and the way it happened is so magical!

Part 02 | Part 03



- Radio Sai Team

Crigler-Najjar Syndrome is a rare genetic liver disease (incidence around 1/1 000 000 births) associated with the abnormal accumulation of bilirubin -- a yellow pigment produced by the liver -- in all the body's tissues, particularly the brain tissues. This hyperbilirubinaemia is caused by a deficiency in UGT1A1, the enzyme that converts bilirubin into an eliminable substance. When this enzyme does not work, bilirubin levels build up, leading to severe chronic icterus (jaundice) and becoming toxic to the brain. If it is not treated quickly, hyperbilirubinaemia can cause significant neurological damage and be deadly.

At present, to maintain bilirubin levels below the toxicity threshold, patients are subjected to 10 to 12 hours of phototherapy every day. The alternative is a liver transplant, a complicated and highly invasive procedure.

A phase I/II trial in 17 patients with Crigler-Najjar Syndrome

This European trial will include 17 patients over 10 years old, (the age when the liver reaches maturity); it aims to assess the tolerance of the product, determine the optimal dose, and assess the therapeutic efficacy of the drug candidate. The trial takes place in four investigation centres in Europe: France (Prof Labrune - Hopital Beclere in Clamart), Italy (Prof Brunetti-Pierri - Hopital Federico II, Prof d'Antiga - Azienda Ospedaliera Papa Giovanni XXIII in Bergamo) and the Netherlands (Prof Beuers - Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam).

The technology used in the trial was developed by the 'Immunology and Gene Therapy for Liver Disease' team at Genethon, headed by Dr Federico Mingozzi. In partnership with research teams in Italy and the Netherlands, Genethon has developed an Adeno-Associated Viral (AAV) vector that is able to transfer a copy of the UGT1A1 gene (coding for the production of bilirubin-GT) to the liver cells. Tested first of all in the Gunn rat, an animal model of the disease, a single injection of this drug candidate has enabled the long-term correction of the disease in murine models (Molecular Therapy Methods and Clinical Development - July 2016).

YposKesi -- an industrial platform dedicated to the manufacture of gene and cell therapy products, created by AFM-Telethon and BPI France in November 2016 in Evry (91) -- is producing pharmaceutical-grade vector for the clinical trial.

"We are delighted to be starting a clinical trial of the gene therapy product we have designed to treat Crigler Najjar Syndrome, a very serious liver disease. The trial was made possible by Genethon's pioneering research into gene therapy for rare diseases, over a period of almost 20 years. Today, seven clinical trials are taking place across the world, involving products that Genethon's researchers either developed themselves or participated closely in developing " explains Frederic Revah, CEO of Genethon. "In 1990, we created Genethon to better understand the genetic diseases that kill our children, and to find innovative treatments to cure them. For many years, our laboratory has been one of the global leaders in the gene therapy field. As a firm that has met many therapeutic challenges, it is now beginning the first human trial for this rare liver disease. At this very moment, my thoughts go out to the families, who for months have been looking forward eagerly to us getting the go-ahead from the official agencies to begin the trial, in which I realise they place so much hope", says Laurence Tiennot-Herment, President of AFM-Telethon.

###

About Genethon

Created and financed by AFM-Telethon, Genethon aims to provide patients with innovative gene therapy treatments. Having played a pioneering role in deciphering the human genome, Genethon now employs almost 180 researchers, doctors, engineers and regulatory affairs specialists, and is one of the leading international centres for preclinical and clinical research and development in gene therapy treatments for rare diseases.

Go to the press room

Follow the Institut des Biotherapies on Twitter: @BiotherapiesIns

About AFM-Telethon

L'AFM-Telethon is an association of patients and their relatives, committed to fighting disease. Thanks to donations from the Telethon, it has become a major player in biomedical research into rare diseases in France and across the world. Today, it supports clinical trials testing treatments for genetic diseases of the eyes, blood, brain, immune system and muscles. It is unlike other associations in that its laboratories have the ability to design, produce and test their own innovative therapies.

Free telephone number for affected families: 0800-35-36-37

Press contact

Stephanie Bardon - 33-0-1-69-47-12-78 - presse@afm.genethon.frDALLAS, Feb. 12, 2018 -- People born with heart defects who survive into adulthood may be at higher risk of developing dementia, particularly dementia that starts before 65 years of age, according to new research in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation.

With improved newborn and childhood treatments, more people born with heart defects survive into adulthood. A 2016 study published in Circulation estimated that approximately 1.4 million adults are living with congenital heart defects in the United States.

"Previous studies showed that people born with heart defects have a higher risk of neurodevelopmental problems in childhood, such as epilepsy and autism, but this is, to our knowledge, the first study to examine the potential for dementia later in adult life," said Carina N. Bagge, B.Sc., lead author of the study and a medical student in the Department of Clinical Epidemiology at Aarhus University Hospital in Aarhus, Denmark.

Using national medical databases and records covering all Danish hospitals, the researchers examined the occurrence of dementia in 10,632 mostly Caucasian adults (46 percent male) born with heart defects between 1890 and 1982 (most between 1960 and 1982), matching each with 10 members of the general population of the same gender born the same year.

Researchers found the risk of dementia from any cause, including vascular dementia, Alzheimer's disease and others, in people born with heart defects in Denmark was:

60 percent higher overall than the general population;

160 percent (2.6 times) higher for early-onset dementia (diagnosed before age 65);

30 percent higher for dementia diagnosed after age 65.

The study was observational, which means that the researchers were examining individuals with heart defects over time to see if there was an association between being born with a heart defect and developing dementia later in life. While they did find an association, the study does not mean that every person who was born with a heart defect will develop dementia. The study observed a higher risk, but did not prove cause and effect.

Heart defects are the most common group of birth defects, occurring in 4 to 10 of every 1,000 live births in the United States and 8 to 10 out of every 1,000 live births in Denmark'.

"Our study involved an older population born when treatments for heart defects were more limited. Modern treatment has improved greatly, and as a result we can't directly generalize these results to children born today. We need further work to understand the risks in the modern era," Bagge said.

Dementia or cognitive impairment is often progressive, and can be caused by many factors, including reduced blood flow to the brain, strokes and Alzheimer's disease. People with dementia may have problems with memory, reasoning, behavior and other mental functions.

In this study, the risk of dementia was higher in people born with heart defects who developed other heart disease risk factors later in life, such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and diabetes. These risk factors are more common in people born with heart defects than in the general population, and they have also been shown to independently raise the risk of dementia.

"While we must be careful to appreciate these findings within the limitations of the study design, continued study of this association may yield important clinical screening and medical management strategies in the future, and there may even be opportunities discovered to aid in the prevention of dementia in this population," said Nicolas L. Madsen, M.D., M.P.H., senior author of the study and assistant professor of pediatrics at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

###

Co-authors are Victor W. Henderson, M.D., M.S.; Henning B. Laursen, M.D., D.M.Sc.; Kasper Adelborg, M.D., Ph.D.; and Morten Olsen, M.D., Ph.D. Author disclosures are on the manuscript.

The study was funded by the Department of Clinical Epidemiology at Aarhus University Hospital, the Heart Institute at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, the National Institute on Aging, the Foundation of the Family Kjaersgaard Sunds, the Foundation of 1870, the Foundation of Raimond and Dagmar Ringgaard-Bohn, the Foundation of Torben and Alice Frimodt, the Foundation of the Family Hede-Nielsen, and the Oticon Foundation.

Additional Resources:

Available multimedia is on the right column of the release link - https://newsroom.heart.org/news/survivors-of-childhood-heart-defects-may-have-higher-risk-of-premature-dementia?preview=744dec95e60a0d8f32f2ccfa83e6cd56

Congenital Heart Defects

Seven Steps To Keep Your Brain Healthy

After February 12, view the manuscript (ADD LINK) online.

Follow AHA/ASA news on Twitter @HeartNews

For updates and new science from the Circulation journal follow @CircAHA

Statements and conclusions of study authors published in American Heart Association scientific journals are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the association's policy or position. The association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. The association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific association programs and events. The association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and device corporations and health insurance providers are available at http://www.heart.org/corporatefunding.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke - the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation's oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.In a major advancement in nanomedicine, Arizona State University (ASU) scientists, in collaboration with researchers from the National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, have successfully programmed nanorobots to shrink tumors by cutting off their blood supply.

"We have developed the first fully autonomous, DNA robotic system for a very precise drug design and targeted cancer therapy," said Hao Yan, director of the ASU Biodesign Institute's Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics and the Milton Glick Professor in the School of Molecular Sciences.

"Moreover, this technology is a strategy that can be used for many types of cancer, since all solid tumor-feeding blood vessels are essentially the same," said Yan.

The successful demonstration of the technology, the first-of-its-kind study in mammals utilizing breast cancer, melanoma, ovarian and lung cancer mouse models, was published in the journal Nature Biotechnology (DOI:10.1038/nbt.4071).

Seek and destroy

Yan is an expert in the field of DNA origami, which in the past two decades, has developed atomic-scale manufacturing to build more and more complex structures.

The bricks to build their structures come from DNA, which can self-fold into all sorts of shapes and sizes ---all at a scale one thousand times smaller than the width of a human hair---in the hopes of one day revolutionizing computing, electronics and medicine.

That one day may be coming a bit faster than anticipated.

Nanomedicine is a new branch of medicine that seeks to combine the promise of nanotechnology to open up entirely new avenues for treatments, such as making minuscule, molecule-sized nanoparticles to diagnose and treat difficult diseases, especially cancer.

Until now, the challenge to advancing nanomedicine has been difficult because scientists wanted to design, build and carefully control nanorobots to actively seek and destroy cancerous tumors---while not harming any healthy cells.

The international team of researchers overcame this problem by using a seemingly simple strategy to very selectively seek and starve out a tumor.

This work was initiated about 5 years ago. The NCNST researchers first wanted to specifically cut-off of tumor blood supply by inducing blood coagulation with high therapeutic efficacy and safety profiles in multiple solid tumors using DNA-based nanocarriers. Prof. Hao Yan's expertise has upgraded the nanomedicine design to be a fully programmable robotic system, able to perform its mission entirely on its own.

"These nanorobots can be programmed to transport molecular payloads and cause on-site tumor blood supply blockages, which can lead to tissue death and shrink the tumor," said Baoquan Ding, a professor at the NCNST, located in Beijing, China.

Nanorobots to the rescue

To perform their study, the scientists took advantage of a well-known mouse tumor model, where human cancer cells are injected into a mouse to induce aggressive tumor growth.

Once the tumor was growing, the nanorobots were deployed to come to the rescue.

Each nanorobot is made from a flat, rectangular DNA origami sheet, 90 nanometers by 60 nanometers in size. A key blood-clotting enzyme, called thrombin, is attached to the surface.

Thrombin can block tumor blood flow by clotting the blood within the vessels that feed tumor growth, causing a sort of tumor mini-heart attack, and leading to tumor tissue death.

First, an average of four thrombin molecules was attached to a flat DNA scaffold. Next, the flat sheet was folded in on itself like a sheet of paper into a circle to make a hollow tube.

They were injected with an IV into a mouse, then traveled throughout the bloodstream, homing in on the tumors.

The key to programming a nanorobot that only attacks a cancer cell was to include a special payload on its surface, called a DNA aptamer. The DNA aptamer could specifically target a protein, called nucleolin, that is made in high amounts only on the surface of tumor endothelial cells---and not found on the surface of healthy cells.

Once bound to the tumor blood vessel surface, the nanorobot was programmed, like the notorious Trojan horse, to deliver its unsuspecting drug cargo in the very heart of the tumor, exposing an enzyme called thrombin that is key to blood clotting.

The nanorobots worked fast, congregating in large numbers to quickly surround the tumor just hours after injection.

Safe and sound design

First and foremost, the team showed that the nanorobots were safe and effective in shrinking tumors.

"The nanorobot proved to be safe and immunologically inert for use in normal mice and, also in Bama miniature pigs, showing no detectable changes in normal blood coagulation or cell morphology," said Yuliang Zhao, also a professor at NCNST and lead scientist of the international collaborative team.

Most importantly, there was no evidence of the nanorobots spreading into the brain where it could cause unwanted side effects, such as a stroke.

"The nanorobots are decidedly safe in the normal tissues of mice and large animals," said Guangjun Nie, another professor at the NCNST and a key member of the collaborative team.

The treatment blocked tumor blood supply and generated tumor tissue damage within 24 hours while having no effect on healthy tissues. After attacking tumors, most of the nanorobots were cleared and degraded from the body after 24 hours.

By two days, there was evidence of advanced thrombosis, and 3 days, thrombi in all tumor vessels were observed.

The key is to trigger thrombin only when it is inside tumor blood vessels. Also, in the melanoma mouse model, 3 out of 8 mice receiving the nanorobot therapy showed complete regression of the tumors. The median survival time more than doubled, extending from 20.5 to 45 days.

They also tried their system in a test of a primary mouse lung cancer model, which mimics the human clinical course of lung cancer patients. They showed shrinkage of tumor tissues after a 2-week treatment.

Science of the very small goes big

For Yan, the important study milestone represents the end of the beginning for nanomedicine.

"The thrombin delivery DNA nanorobot constitutes a major advance in the application of DNA nanotechnology for cancer therapy," said Yan. "In a melanoma mouse model, the nanorobot not only affected the primary tumor but also prevented the formation of metastasis, showing promising therapeutic potential."

Yan and his collaborators are now actively pursuing clinical partners to further develop this technology.

"I think we are much closer to real, practical medical applications of the technology," said Yan. "Combinations of different rationally designed nanorobots carrying various agents may help to accomplish the ultimate goal of cancer research: the eradication of solid tumors and vascularized metastases. Furthermore, the current strategy may be developed as a drug delivery platform for the treatment of other diseases by modification of the geometry of the nanostructures, the targeting groups and the loaded cargoes."

###

This work was supported by grants from National Basic Research Plan of China (MoST Program 2016YFA0201601), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31730032, 21222311, 21573051, 91127021, the National Distinguished Young Scientists program 31325010), Innovation Research Group of National Natural Science Foundation (11621505, 21721002), Beijing Municipal Science & Technology Commission (Z161100000116035, Z161100000116036), CAS Interdisciplinary Innovation Team, K. C. Wong Education Foundation and US National Institutes of Health Director's Transformative Research Award (R01GM104960-01).For the first time, it is possible to create complex nanoscale metal structures using 3-D printing, thanks to a new technique developed at Caltech.

The process, once scaled up, could be used in a wide variety of applications, from building tiny medical implants to creating 3-D logic circuits on computer chips to engineering ultralightweight aircraft components. It also opens the door to the creation of a new class of materials with unusual properties that are based on their internal structure. The technique is described in a study that will be published in Nature Communications on February 9.

In 3-D printing--also known as additive manufacturing--an object is built layer by layer, allowing for the creation of structures that would be impossible to manufacture by conventional subtractive methods such as etching or milling. Caltech materials scientist Julia Greer is a pioneer in the creation of ultratiny 3-D architectures built via additive manufacturing. For instance, she and her team have built 3-D lattices whose beams are just nanometers across--far too small to be seen with the naked eye. These materials exhibit unusual, often surprising properties; Greer's team has created exceptionally lightweight ceramics that spring back to their original shape, spongelike, after being compressed.

Greer's group 3-D prints structures out of a variety of materials, from ceramics to organic compounds. Metals, however, have been difficult to print, especially when trying to create structures with dimensions smaller than around 50 microns, or about half the width of a human hair.

The way 3-D printing works at the nanoscale is that a high-precision laser zaps the liquid in specific locations of the material with just two photons, or particles of light. This provides enough energy to harden liquid polymers into solids, but not enough to fuse metal.

"Metals don't respond to light in the same way as the polymer resins that we use to manufacture structures at the nanoscale," says Greer, professor of materials science, mechanics, and medical engineering in Caltech's Division of Engineering and Applied Science. "There's a chemical reaction that gets triggered when light interacts with a polymer that enables it to harden and then form into a particular shape. In a metal, this process is fundamentally impossible."

Greer's graduate student Andrey Vyatskikh came up with a solution. He used organic ligands--molecules that bond to metal--to create a resin containing mostly polymer, but which carries along with it metal that can be printed, like a scaffold.

In the experiment described in the Nature Communications paper, Vyatskikh bonded together nickel and organic molecules to create a liquid that looks a lot like cough syrup. They designed a structure using computer software, and then built it by zapping the liquid with a two-photon laser. The laser creates stronger chemical bonds between the organic molecules, hardening them into building blocks for the structure. Since those molecules are also bonded to the nickel atoms, the nickel becomes incorporated into the structure. In this way, the team was able to print a 3-D structure that was initially a blend of metal ions and nonmetal, organic molecules.

Vyatskikh then put the structure into an oven that slowly heated it up to 1,000 degrees Celsius (around 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit) in a vacuum chamber. That temperature is well below the melting point of nickel (1,455 degrees Celsius, or about 2,650 degrees Fahrenheit) but is hot enough to vaporize the organic materials in the structure, leaving only the metal. The heating process, known as pyrolysis, also fused the metal particles together.

In addition, because the process vaporized a significant amount of the structure's material, its dimensions shrank by 80 percent, but it maintained its shape and proportions.

"That final shrinkage is a big part of why we're able to get structures to be so small," says Vyatskikh, lead author on the Nature Communications paper. "In the structure we built for the paper, the diameter of the metal beams in the printed part is roughly 1/1000th the size of the tip of a sewing needle."

Greer and Vyatskikh are still refining their technique; right now, the structure reported on in their paper includes some voids left behind by the vaporized organic materials as well as some minor impurities. Also, if the technique is to be of use to industry, it will need to be scaled up to produce much more material, says Greer. Although they started with nickel, they are interested in expanding to other metals that are commonly used in industry but are challenging or impossible to fabricate in small 3-D shapes, such as tungsten and titanium. Greer and Vyatskikh are also looking to use this process to 3-D print other materials, both common and exotic, such as ceramics, semiconductors, and piezoelectric materials (materials with electrical effects that result from mechanical stresses).

###

The study is titled "Additive Manufacturing of 3D Nano-Architected Metals." Co-authors include Caltech Resnick Sustainability Institute Postdoctoral Scholar in Applied Physics and Materials Science Akira Kudo and mechanical engineering graduate student Carlos Portela as well as collaborators Stephane Delalande of the Centre Technique de Velizy in France and Xuan Zhang of Tsinghua University in China. Funding for this research came from the Department of Defense.In one of the first successes of its kind, researchers from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and six other institutions have inhibited the spreading of cancer cells from one part of the body to another. In doing so, they relied on a new model of how cancer metastasizes that emphasizes epigenetics, which examines how genes are turned on and off.

In a study published in Nature Medicine, the investigators--including scientists from the National Cancer Institute and Cleveland Clinic-- used innovative epigenetic-centered techniques to halt the spread of bone cancer (osteosarcoma) cells to the lungs in mice. The large majority of deaths associated with osteosarcoma are due to the spreading of the cancer to the lungs, a process known as metastasis. Most human osteosarcoma cases occur in children and young adults between the ages of 10 and 30, with teens the most frequently affected age group. Clinical outcomes for patients with osteosarcoma have not improved for more than 30 years and there are currently no approved targeted anti-metastatic therapies for the disease in wide clinical use.

"More than 90 percent of all cancer deaths are the result of tumor metastasis, not primary-site tumors," said the study's senior author, Peter Scacheri, PhD, professor of genetics and genome sciences at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and member of the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. "While many of the genes responsible for metastasis have been identified, the mechanisms that control these genes are not well defined. Our findings demonstrate that altered gene-enhancer activity is fundamental to a cancer cell's ability to metastasize."

Gene enhancers are short segments of DNA that, when bound by specialized proteins called transcription factors, function like switches to activate genes. This process is critical for normal development, as when a single fertilized egg develops into the many different cell types which comprise the body. There are tens of thousands of gene enhancers in each cell, far more than the number of genes; they will be in different "on" and "off" positions in, for example, eye and heart cells, (or gradients thereof, like a dimmer switch's effects on the brightness-level of a light). These distinctive "on and off" profiles lend cells their unique characteristics, even though they all have the same DNA. But faulty enhancer regulation appears to contribute to tumor-formation and subsequent spreading of cancer cells. In addition, different cancers are distinguishable by different enhancer patterns. In this new study, the authors show that the on-off switches of cancer cells that have metastasized are in different positions than in the cells of the source tumor.

"Metastasis results from a complex set of traits acquired by tumor cells, distinct from those necessary for tumors to form in the first place," said the study's lead author, James J. Morrow, PhD, a medical student in the Medical Scientist Training Program at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. "Unfortunately, searching for gene mutations that drive metastasis has not substantially improved outcomes for patients with metastatic disease. Five-year survival rates for cancer patients with regional or localized disease have significantly improved for many types of cancer. But with few exceptions, outcomes for patients with metastatic cancer have remained stagnant. It is well established that primary tumor formation is driven by a combination of genetic and epigenetic events. So based on the knowledge that enhancers drive both normal cell development and tumor-formation, we hypothesized that they may play a similar role in the transition of cancer cells from one developmentally distinct tissue to another during metastatic progression."

Through epigenomic profiling experiments, the Case Western Reserve-led researchers consistently identified certain bunched clusters of enhancers - known as metastatic variant enhancer loci (Met-VELs) - near cancer genes in lung metastases of patients with osteosarcoma, indicating that they were central to the metastatic process. Using experimental mouse models, the researchers then showed that growth of osteosarcoma cells in the lung can be mitigated by using BET inhibitors (anti-cancer drugs currently in clinical trials), which broadly interrupt the function of Met-VELs in driving gene expression.

Second, they demonstrated that the metastatic capacity of osteosarcoma cells can be diminished by blocking expression of individual genes regulated by Met-VELs or the transcription factors driving that regulation. They verified that a particular Met-VEL-linked gene, Tissue Factor (F3), is essential for metastatic colonization. Specifically, interrupting the signaling and pro-coagulant (blood clotting) functions of F3 with antibodies inhibiting these functions was sufficient to prevent metastasis. Additionally, they showed that deleting a single Met-VEL regulating F3 expression via the TALEN gene-editing process achieved a similar effect. "Our experiments show that removing a single enhancer of the F3 gene in tumor cells virtually eliminates their ability to metastasize in mice," said Scacheri. "Collectively, our findings establish that enhancer elements endow tumor cells with metastatic capacity and that targeted inhibition of genes associated with enhancer alterations, or deleting altered enhancers themselves is sufficient to block metastatic colonization and proliferation. While our work focused on lung metastasis in osteosarcoma, the findings have implications for other types of metastatic cancer as well."

The Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine focus on epigenetics in the new study represents a break with the prevailing model for metastasis, which largely explores mutations in the genes - not if or how certain genes are turned on or off. And the preponderance of current cancer research takes place on the early stages of disease, such as how tumors are formed and on what distinguishes cancer cells from normal cells, and not on metastasis. Additionally, most cancer medications and treatments today were developed to kill primary tumors, not cancer cells that have spread elsewhere.

###

In addition to Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, researchers from the following institutions participated in the study: Altius Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Seattle, Washington; Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio; Istituto Ortopedico, Bologna, Italy; Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands; National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.

This work was supported by the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Liddy Shriver Sarcoma Initiative, QuadW Foundation, Sarcoma Foundation of America, and the National Institutes of Health.

For more information about Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, please visit: case.edu/medicine.Several scientists from the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) will present talks at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, to be held Feb. 15 - 19 in Austin, Texas. Topics include a new model for science innovation, new ways to search for dark matter, and developments in advanced bioenergy.

Sequence-Based Approaches to Plant Microbiomes

Saturday, February 17

4:00 - 04:30 PM

Austin Convention Center - Room 17b

Plants associate with diverse microbial communities in the rhizosphere, endosphere and leaf surfaces. In multiple plant species, we find that different plant compartments (e.g. rhizosphere and root endosphere) harbor unique microbial communities heavily influenced by the soil, surrounding environment and host genotype. These plant-associated microorganisms possess characteristic genes, operons and genomic features as compared with phylogenetically related non-plant-associated isolates. Model laboratory ecosystems enable hypothesis-driven investigations of these microorganisms and their associations with plants.

Speaker: Susannah Tringe (staff scientist at the U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, a DOE Office of Science User Facility operated by Berkeley Lab)

https://aaas.confex.com/aaas/2018/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/21643

Constructing Plant Microbiomes to Improve Reproducibility of Experiments

Saturday, February 17

3:30 - 5:00 PM

Austin Convention Center - Room 17b

Tringe's talk is part of a scientific session, entitled "Constructing Plant Microbiomes to Improve Reproducibility of Experiments," which was co-organized by Trent Northen, a senior scientist in Berkeley Lab's Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology division. The session focuses on emerging laboratory approaches to constructing plant-associated model microbiomes, to discover the molecular mechanisms that mediate microbe-microbe and microbe-host interactions.

https://aaas.confex.com/aaas/2018/meetingapp.cgi/Session/18038

Cyclotron Road: A New Model for Science Innovation

Saturday, February 17

10:00 - 10:30 AM

Austin Convention Center - Room 18D

Cyclotron Road empowers hard science innovators to advance their ideas from concept to startup and viable first product, positioning them for broad, long term societal impact. Ilan Gur, the founding director of Cyclotron Road, will discuss how the program has created a home for entrepreneurially-minded innovators at Berkeley Lab to advance their ideas from breakthrough idea to the point where a viable business model can be paired with the technology project.

Speaker: Ilan Gur (director of Cyclotron Road, Berkeley Lab's program for scientists looking to advance their research to the point of commercial viability)

https://aaas.confex.com/aaas/2018/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/21042

Quantum Materials for Novel Energy and Information Technology Applications

Sunday, February 18

11:00 - 11:30 AM

Austin Convention Center - Room 18C

The term "quantum materials" has recently come into vogue for solids whose properties can only be explained, even qualitatively, by quantum mechanics. The past decade has seen both new insights into old problems, such as magnetism and superconductivity, and remarkable discoveries about new kinds of electronic order, many of which originate in topology. This talk reviews recent advances in the area of quantum materials and their potential applications for energy and information technologies.

Speaker: Joel Moore (faculty scientist in Berkeley Lab's Materials Sciences Division)

https://aaas.confex.com/aaas/2018/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/21147

Theoretical Perspective on Searches for Low Mass Dark Matter

Sunday, February 18

3:30 - 04:00 PM

Austin Convention Center - Ballroom E

The nature of the dark matter, which shapes the structure and evolution of our Universe, remains a pressing open problem. One way physicists search for dark matter is through rare, weak interactions with electrons and nucleons in underground detectors. Zurek discusses new ideas to search for dark matter utilizing novel quantum phases of matter. These ideas can extend the reach of underground detectors to lighter dark matter many orders of magnitude beyond current capabilities.

Speaker: Kathryn Zurek (senior scientist in Berkeley Lab's Physics Division)

https://aaas.confex.com/aaas/2018/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/21714

Future Biotechnology Products: What's Coming Down the Pike?

Sunday, February 18

4:00 - 04:30 PM

Austin Convention Center - Ballroom G

Recent advances in engineering biology have greatly enabled the modification of plants, animals, and microbes for scientific discovery and for development of new products of biotechnology. This presentation will describe types and examples of emerging biotechnology products -- some familiar and some completely different from those on the market today -- that are likely to be developed in the next 5 to 10 years, products that may influence our thinking about some of the products we currently buy. For example, what is beef or milk if it comes from a laboratory instead of a cow?

Speaker: Mary Maxon (Associate Laboratory Director for Berkeley Lab's Biosciences Area)

https://aaas.confex.com/aaas/2018/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/21409

Driving the Future: Discovery and Development of Advanced Bioenergy

Sunday, February 18

4:30 - 05:00 PM

Austin Convention Center - Room 19A

The development of cost-effective and energy-efficient processes capable of transforming a wide range of non-food lignocellulosic biomass into biofuels and bioproducts is hampered by roadblocks primarily associated with affordability and scalability. The Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) is an integrated project between 11 leading academic and national laboratory research institutions that addresses these roadblocks and establishes viable conversion pathways for the production of infrastructure compatible biofuels and bioproducts. This presentation will highlight research efforts underway at JBEI, including recent advances in bioenergy crops, biomass deconstruction, metabolic engineering and synthetic biology.

Speaker: Blake Simmons (Chief Science and Technology Officer, Joint BioEnergy Institute, and Division Director of Biological Systems and Engineering at Berkeley Lab)

https://aaas.confex.com/aaas/2018/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/20797

###

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory addresses the world's most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab's scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel Prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. For more, visit http://www.lbl.gov.

DOE's Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit science.energy.govFor the first time, physicists from the U.S. Department of Energys (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory and their collaborators, led by a team from the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, demonstrated a long-theorized nuclear effect. This advance tests theoretical models that describe how nuclear and atomic realms interact and may also provide new insights into how star elements are created.

Physicists first predicted the effect, called nuclear excitation by electron capture (NEEC), over 40 years ago. But scientists had not seen it until now. Using the Argonne Tandem Linac Accelerator System (ATLAS), and Gammasphere, a powerful gamma ray spectrometer, the researchers created the right conditions to cause and spot the behavior.

We were able to identify around 500 gamma rays that were emitted during the decay of 93Mo that wouldnt have been released if it werent for NEEC.  Mike Carpenter, group leader at Argonne in charge of Gammasphere

The NEEC effect occurs when a charged atom captures an electron, giving the atoms nucleus enough energy to jump to a higher excited state.

An excited nucleus stays in each energy state for a while before decaying into the state below it, shedding energy in the form of gamma rays. These excited states typically last for much less than a billionth of a second, but in some rare cases, they can live far longer, even for millions of times the age of the universe.

The longer-lived energy states are called isomers, and to observe the NEEC effect, the researchers produced an isomer with a half-life of about seven hours. In other words, after seven hours of existing in the isomeric energy level, about half of the nuclei of this type will decay.

The scientists chose to produce this nucleus, called 93Mo, an isotope of molybdenum, because of its unique arrangement of energy levels. There is an allowed energy level not far above the isomer state, said the Army Research Laboratorys Chris Chiara, the studys lead scientist. Under normal circumstances, the isomer will decay naturally after about seven hours, but if NEEC occurs, the nucleus is excited out of the isomer to the slightly higher state. That state then quickly decays to a state below the isomer, emitting gamma rays that have distinct energies that we can look for.

To make 93Mo, the researchers used ATLAS, a DOE Office of Science User Facility, to accelerate a beam of ions towards the atoms in a target foil where the nuclei of the two fused together. These reactions formed 93Mo in a highly excited state at the center of Gammasphere, which waited to detect evidence of the effect in the form of gamma rays.

As the 93Mo atoms move through the target material, they bump into atoms that slow them down and strip them of electrons, putting them in a high-charge state. Electrons from the target atoms then fill those vacancies in the 93Mo, and if the electrons have the right energy before the capture, they may excite the nucleus into the next highest state. When this state decays, the nucleus releases a gamma ray that can be traced back to the NEEC reaction.

The target, made by ATLASs in-house target maker, John Greene, played a crucial role in the detection of NEEC. Greene was able to work on the fly, tweaking the target as the scientists learned more about the 93Mo nucleus. With everything in place, the team began to gather data.

We detected gamma rays from these reactions over the course of the three-day experiment, and we accumulated around eight billion events in total, said Mike Carpenter, a group leader at Argonne in charge of Gammasphere. From these events, we were able to identify around 500 gamma rays that were emitted during the decay of 93Mo that wouldnt have been released if it werent for NEEC.

The power and sensitivity of Gammasphere was vital to the experiments success. We made use of a new digital Gammasphere mode, which allowed us to run at a rate about five times higher than would have been possible with the older analog system, said Chiara. But it was not only the hardware at ATLAS that was important. As experts in the field of gamma-ray spectroscopy, the Argonne staff provided invaluable scientific and technical support, he added.

The teams success may lead to advances in astronomy and cosmology as it could improve the accuracy of models scientists use to gauge how stars form. The quantities of elements in a star depend largely on the structure and behavior of nuclei. Over long periods, and with vast numbers of atoms interacting, the survival  or destruction  of specific isomers can have a cumulative influence. Taking the NEEC effect into account could improve our understanding of what stars are made of and how they evolve.

Scientists at the Army Research Laboratory are also interested in possible future applications for the controlled release of nuclear energy from isomers via the NEEC effect. If scientists and engineers could harness this energy, it might help develop power sources with 100,000 times greater energy per unit mass than chemical batteries.

###

The results of the experiment were published in a paper titled Isomer depletion as experimental evidence of nuclear excitation by electron capture, on February 8 in Nature.

Other Argonne co-authors include physicists Robert Janssens (now at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill/Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory), Darek Seweryniak and Shaofei Zhu.

The work was funded by DOEs Office of Science, the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, the National Science Foundation, the Australian Research Council and the Polish National Science Centre.

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory is part of the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command (RDECOM), which has the mission to provide innovative research, development and engineering to produce capabilities that provide decisive overmatch to the Army against the complexities of the current and future operating environments in support of the joint warfighter and the nation. RDECOM is a major subordinate command of the U.S. Army Materiel Command.

Argonne National Laboratory seeks solutions to pressing national problems in science and technology. The nation's first national laboratory, Argonne conducts leading-edge basic and applied scientific research in virtually every scientific discipline. Argonne researchers work closely with researchers from hundreds of companies, universities, and federal, state and municipal agencies to help them solve their specific problems, advance America's scientific leadership and prepare the nation for a better future. With employees from more than 60 nations, Argonne is managed by UChicago Argonne, LLC for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science.

The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, visit the Office of Science website.Boulder, Colo., USA: The biggest landslides on Earth aren't on land, but on the seafloor. These mega-slides can move thousands of cubic kilometers of material, and sometimes trigger tsunamis. Yet, remarkably, they occur on nearly flat slopes of less than three degrees.

Morelia Urlaub, a marine geoscientist at the Geomar Helmholtz Center for Ocean Research in Kiel, Germany, voices the obvious question: "How can you fail on a slope that is so flat?" Now, Urlaub and colleagues may have discovered the answer. The smoking -- or in this case, oozing -- gun is a layer of siliceous microfossils called diatoms.

The study, published online ahead of print for the Geological Society of America's journal Geology, is the first to identify the weak layer responsible for a submarine mega-slide. Although the nature of these critical weak layers has been highly debated, studying them has been nearly impossible because they are typically destroyed along with the slides.

Urlaub was compiling ocean drilling data from 1980 when she realized that the core sampled the seafloor just outside the Cap Blanc slide, a 149,000 year-old mega-slide off the coast of northwest Africa. She correlated that data with high resolution seismic reflection data recorded in the same area in 2009. Together, these data revealed diatom-rich layers, up to ten meters thick, that traced directly from the core to the base of slide layers within the mega-slide complex.

What's more, each diatom layer was topped by a layer of clay-rich sediment. That clay is apparently key. "Diatom layers are very compressible and water rich," Urlaub says. As pressure builds, she explains, water would be squeezed from the diatom layer into the clay. Ultimately the clay or the interface between the clay and diatoms fails, sending the sediments above sliding.

At the Cap Blanc slide, the seafloor slopes at just 2.8 degrees. Yet when it broke loose, the slide transported over 30 cubic kilometers of material, and extended at least 35 kilometers. Another submarine mega-slide 8,500 years ago off Norway moved a staggering 3,000 cubic kilometers, causing a damaging tsunami. And some scientists speculate that the 2011 Tohoku tsunami in Japan may have been amplified by a submarine mega-slide.

Although such slides don't occur very often, says Urlaub, their size makes them quite significant. "One-fifth of all tsunamis may be caused by undersea mega-slides," she says. If diatom layers are a major factor, then understanding where paleoclimate conditions may have favored diatom growth might help reveal potential mega-slide sites.

###

FEATURED ARTICLE

Diatom ooze: Crucial for the generation of submarine megaslides?

M. Urlaub, Jacob Geersen, Sebastian Krastel, and Tilmann Schwenk. Geology: https://doi.org/10.1130/G39892.1.

Author contact:

Morelia Urlaub

GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Kiel

Schleswig-Holstein, Germany

murlaub@geomar.de.

GEOLOGY articles are online http://geology.geoscienceworld.org/content/early/recent. Representatives of the media may obtain complimentary articles by contacting Kea Giles at the e-mail address above. Please discuss articles of interest with the authors before publishing stories on their work, and please make reference to GEOLOGY in articles published. Non-media requests for articles may be directed to GSA Sales and Service, gsaservice@geosociety.org.

http://www.geosociety.org/

Contact:

Kea Giles

+1-303-357-1057

kgiles@geosociety.orgBLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- A study led by Indiana University on neurochemical changes associated with alcohol addiction found that the neurotransmitter glutamate plays a role in some alcohol cravings.

Alcohol dependence and alcohol use disorders occur in about 30 percent of all Americans, taking a severe toll on people's lives, as well as on the health care system and economy. Ninety percent of all attempts to cure the dependence or abuse of alcohol result in relapse within four years. These relapses are primarily triggered by sights, sounds and situations associated with past drinking experiences.

"This is the first study to document changes in glutamate levels during exposure to alcohol cues in people with alcohol use disorders and shines a spotlight on glutamate levels as an important target for new therapies to treat the condition," said Sharlene Newman, a professor in the IU Bloomington College of Arts and Sciences' Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences.

The study, recently published in the Journal of Alcohol and Alcoholism, builds upon research by scientists such as George Rebec, a professor emeritus in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences who previously found that sights and sounds associated with addictive substances such as cocaine or alcohol affect glutamate levels in the brains of rats addicted to these substances. These sights and sounds are called "cues" because they elicit a craving for the previously abused substance.

"Glutamate is the real workhorse of all transmitters in the brain," Rebec said. "Dopamine is the more popularly known neurotransmitter, a lack of which contributes to depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Parkinson's disease -- but it actually accounts for less than 5 percent of all synaptic activity. By contrast, glutamate?accounts for about 50 percent of this activity and is especially involved in the reward-motivation circuits integral to addiction."

To conduct the new study, researchers enlisted 35 subjects, 17 with alcohol use disorder and 18 without the disorder. Then they measured concentrations of glutamate using a technology called magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The study found a decrease of the chemical in the brain of people with alcohol abuse disorder after they were shown cues associated with drinking -- such as a photo of alcohol in a glass -- compared to when they viewed neutral photos. Individuals without the disorder showed no change in glutamate levels when viewing the same images.

"We recognized we could measure glutamate levels in the human brain using magnetic resonance spectroscopy," said Newman, who led the collaboration between her department's addiction researchers to build upon Rebec's previous work in animals. "Scientists can now confidently target glutamate levels in the brain as they develop new treatments for alcoholism and other forms of addiction."

###

Technical expertise on the use of magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure glutamate levels was provided by Newman, director of the IU Imaging Research Facility; Hu Cheng, a senior scientist in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences; and Ulrike Dydak, a professor in the School of Health Sciences at Purdue University. IU professor Peter Finn, a clinical psychologist who studies decision-making behavior in the early stages of alcohol use disorders, assisted in the recruitment of participants in the study.

Additional authors were Rebec; undergraduate research assistant Derek Kellar and graduate student Allison Lake in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences; and Shalmali Dharmadhikari, a former graduate student in Dydak's lab at Purdue. Newman is also the associate vice provost for undergraduate education at IU Bloomington.

This study was funded in part by the National Institutes of Health's National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute.Children participating in a 12-week, before-school physical activity program experienced improvement in body weight and social/emotional wellness, compared with their classmates who did not participate. Investigators from MassGeneral Hospital for Children (MGHfC) report the results of their study of the BOKS (Build Our Kids' Success) Program in a paper that will appear in the April issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine and is being released online.

"We know that physical activity can have positive effects on children's health - ranging from decreased rates of obesity and obesity-related illnesses to improving school performance and overall well-being," says Rachel Whooten, MD, postdoctoral fellow in the MGHfC Division of General Academic Pediatrics, and first author of the study. "Despite these benefits, it's often hard for children and families to find opportunities to be physically active. Our study evaluates a widely available, easily scalable and innovative program that may create more physical activity opportunities for school-aged children."

An initiative of the Reebok Foundation, which was a co-sponsor of the current study, the BOKS Program is currently available in more than 3,000 elementary and middle schools in the U.S. and other countries. Following a 12-week curriculum, the program provides hour-long, before-school sessions up to three days a week. Each session begins with a warm-up game, followed by a running-related activity; activities incorporating "skills of the week," such as push-ups or sit-ups; a game to end the session, and nutrition discussions during stretching and cool-down. Session are led by volunteers, who have been trained with BOKS program materials. While the training, BOKS curriculum and support materials are provided to participating schools at no cost, schools need to provide some basic supplies as well as locations for the program.

Previous small studies have documented improvements in body fat and aerobic performance in BOKS participants, compared with nonparticipants. The current study was designed to evaluate both how a 12-week BOKS program affects participants' body mass index (BMI) and whether any differences resulted from participating two or three times a week. In 24 elementary and middle schools in three eastern Massachusetts communities during the 2015-16 school year, the parents of all students in grades K-8 were invited to enroll their children in the BOKS program and the study. Parent of those not participating in BOKS could allow their children to participate in the comparison group.

School districts determined whether the program would be offered two or three times a week, depending on resources and preferences. Twice-a-week sessions were offered at 16 schools, while 8 schools conducted sessions three times a week. Overall, 274 children participated in the twice-a-week program, 151 in the three-times-a-week program, and 282 in the comparison group, for a total of 707 study participants. In addition to measurements of height and weight taken before and after the 12-week program, participants ages 8 and older completed surveys evaluating their social and emotional wellness - including their overall mood, interaction with peers, satisfaction with their lives and involvement in their studies.

At the end of the 12-week BOKS program, children participating three times a week had significantly better BMI z scores - an age- and sex-specific measure used to track changes in weight status - and a greater chance of moving to a lower BMI category - such as normal instead of overweight - than did children in the comparison group. Three-times-a-week participants also had better scores regarding their engagement in schoolwork, while those in the two-times-a-week group had significant improvements in mood, vitality and energy.

Elsie Taveras, MD, MPH, chief of the MGHfC Division of General Academic Pediatrics, who led the study, explains that the before-school nature of the BOKS program offers several advantages, including not conflicting with after-school activities and family commitments. "The program's structure in which volunteers from within the school receive brief training and then follow a standard curriculum can overcome the concerns of some teachers and parents that they don't have the knowledge to help kids be more active. The flexibility of the BOKS program and the lack of a required investment in material resources can be helpful for schools with limited equipment and financial resources."

Three elementary and middle schools in the eastern Massachusetts city of Revere have implemented the BOKS program for the current school year as part of a new study, led by Whooten, that is now underway. Barbara Kelly, principal of the Paul Revere Innovation School, says, "The BOKS program has become vital to the fabric of our school. The morning program sets the tone for each participating student's day. Their engagement and excitement in BOKS has carried over to the classroom, with parents and teachers alike having seen academic improvement. Students thrive on the program's structure and are so proud to belong to the club. I can't imagine not having BOKS in our school."

A professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, Taveras adds, "Childhood is an important time for the establishment of healthy habits and routines that might protect children from chronic diseases including obesity, heart disease, and depression, which are the biggest contributors to morbidity and mortality in the U.S. Programs such as BOKS that help children not only develop healthy habits to promote optimal growth trajectories but also promote social and emotional skills that can help them better handle stress, peer interactions, and negative feelings are just what children need and should be broadly scaled. The program's being school-based and run by volunteers gives it the potential of affecting a large number of children equitably without the need for substantial resources."

###

Additional co-authors of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine report are Meghan Perkins, MPH, and Monica Gerber, MPH, both of the MGHfC Division of General Academic Pediatrics. Additional support for the study was provided by the Boston Foundation.

Massachusetts General Hospital, founded in 1811, is the original and largest teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. The MGH Research Institute conducts the largest hospital-based research program in the nation, with an annual research budget of more than $900 million and major research centers in HIV/AIDS, cardiovascular research, cancer, computational and integrative biology, cutaneous biology, genomic medicine, medical imaging, neurodegenerative disorders, regenerative medicine, reproductive biology, systems biology, photomedicine and transplantation biology. The MGH topped the 2015 Nature Index list of health care organizations publishing in leading scientific journals and earned the prestigious 2015 Foster G. McGaw Prize for Excellence in Community Service. In August 2017 the MGH was once again named to the Honor Roll in the U.S. News & World Report list of "America's Best Hospitals."@alextdaugherty

Florida Sen. Bill Nelson, the only member of Congress who's been to space, had sharp words for President Donald Trump's proposal to cut funding for the International Space Station in 2025 as part of his 2019 budget framework released on Monday.

"The administrations budget for NASA is a nonstarter. If were ever going to get to Mars with humans on board and return them safely, then we need a larger funding increase for NASA. The proposal would also end support for the International Space Station in 2025 and make deep cuts to popular education and science programs," Nelson said in a statement. "Turning off the lights and walking away from our sole outpost in space at a time when were pushing the frontiers of exploration makes no sense."

Nelson, the ranking member of the Senate Commerce Committee which has oversight of NASA, is a strong proponent of robust NASA funding and getting astronauts to Mars sometime in the 2030s.

Trump's budget proposal isn't likely to get morphed into law by Congress, though his 2019 plan would keep the federal deficit intact if enacted, which is in contrast to his 2018 plan released last year. Keeping the federal deficit intact after 10 years is a deviation from a longtime Republican Party goal of balancing the federal budget.What should physicians say to their patients who ask them about the safety of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and whether the devices can help them quit smoking? Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) physician Nancy Rigotti, MD, outlines what is and is not known about the risks and benefits of e-cigarettes in a commentary published in the February 13 issue of Annals of Internal Medicine.

A member of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) committee that recently issued the report, "Public Health Consequences of E-Cigarettes," Rigotti writes that while, "E-cigarettes have the potential for enormous benefit if they help smokers quit . . . . This benefit must be balanced against potential harm if e-cigarettes entice youths who would not otherwise have become cigarette smokers to try e-cigarettes, become addicted to nicotine and then switch to combustible cigarettes."

The NASEM committee was convened to evaluate all available evidence on the health effects of e-cigarettes and make recommendations for future research. Its primary finding was that using e-cigarettes is less hazardous than continuing to smoke combustible cigarettes. This is because e-cigarettes do not burn tobacco, and the health hazards of cigarettes are largely due to the chemicals produced when tobacco is burned. While e-cigarettes do emit some potentially toxic chemicals, they are less hazardous and at lower levels than what are emitted by combustible cigarettes. Completely switching to from cigarettes to e-cigarettes is likely to reduce smoking-related health hazards, but there is much less evidence of benefit for e-cigarette users who continue to smoke cigarettes, .

While the NASEM committee found no evidence that the devices increase risks of cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, cancer or other adverse outcomes, the novelty of e-cigarettes means that the kinds of long-term, epidemiologic studies required to establish such risks have not yet been possible. "However, lack of evidence does not equal evidence of no risk," Rigotti writes, reiterating the committee's call for long-term observational studies.

Determining the public health impact of e-cigarettes will depend on the balance of three factors, she notes - the ability to help current smokers quit, the potential to increase adolescents' use of combustible cigarettes and any inherent toxicity of e-cigarettes themselves. The committee did find that e-cigarettes may increase the likelihood that never-smoking teens would try combustible cigarettes, but whether they would become established smokers is not yet clear. Evidence supporting e-cigarettes as a quit-smoking aid is even more limited but promising. Overall, the committee's model for estimating the net effect of e-cigarettes on lives saved or lost in the U.S. over the next 50 years projected that the devices would likely save lives.

The report purposely offered no explicit advice to physicians or other health professionals, but Rigotti points out that its findings can help guide their discussions with smokers. She writes, "I tell patients that using e-cigarettes is less harmful than continuing to smoke cigarettes; but because e-cigarettes are so new, I caution them that many questions about their long-term safety remain unanswered." Because of questions about safety, she recommends that smokers trying to quit use established, FDA-approved smoking cessation medications aids. For those who want to try e-cigarettes, she advises switching completely from cigarettes to e-cigarettes and eventually aiming stop the e-cigarettes too.

Director of the MGH Tobacco Research and Treatment Center and a professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Rigotti concludes, "Overall, the message I aim to convey is that I will continue to support and assist patients on their journey to becoming nonsmokers."

###

Massachusetts General Hospital, founded in 1811, is the original and largest teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. The MGH Research Institute conducts the largest hospital-based research program in the nation, with an annual research budget of more than $900 million and major research centers in HIV/AIDS, cardiovascular research, cancer, computational and integrative biology, cutaneous biology, genomic medicine, medical imaging, neurodegenerative disorders, regenerative medicine, reproductive biology, systems biology, photomedicine and transplantation biology. The MGH topped the 2015 Nature Index list of health care organizations publishing in leading scientific journals and earned the prestigious 2015 Foster G. McGaw Prize for Excellence in Community Service. In August 2017 the MGH was once again named to the Honor Roll in the U.S. News & World Report list of "America's Best Hospitals."Today, President Donald J. Trump's Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 budget request for the National Science Foundation (NSF) was presented to Congress. More information on the FY 2019 budget request is available beginning today from the White House Office of Management and Budget.* NSF Director France Cordova issued the following statement:

Under the President's Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 budget request, NSF will continue its support for groundbreaking research in areas including computer science, biology, engineering, geoscience, mathematics, the physical sciences, and the social sciences.

As the only federal agency that invests in fundamental, basic research across all fields of science and engineering, NSF has spent nearly seven decades laying the foundation upon which the future is built. Basic research supported by NSF allowed for the emergence of fields of research such as data science, encryption, gene editing, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. Our support will foster new growth in these fields vital to the economy and security. NSF-supported research has added hundreds of billions of dollars to the economy and led to advances that benefit all Americans, from Doppler radar to MRI scans and the computer architecture that led to the internet. The President's budget request will enable us to continue that work.

We will support an expanded, enhanced U.S. scientific workforce through investments in education and development programs to ensure that every resident of this country has access to training for a career in science and engineering. By sustaining the strong U.S. science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) educational ecosystem, NSF helps the country maintain its ability to draw high-achieving students from other nations, adding their ingenuity to our own.

This budget allows us to continue setting priorities that responsibly allocate federal funding, through our 10 Big Ideas for Future NSF Investments and other strategies that connect the talents of the science and engineering community with the needs of the American public.

###

*More details on NSF's FY2019 budget request will be provided at a later date.Patients with Huntington's have much less cancer than general population

Scientists discover why Huntington's gene is toxic to cancer

"We've never seen anything this powerful against cancer cells"

Researchers hope short-term treatment would kill cancer cells without causing neurological issues associated with Huntington's

CHICAGO --- Patients with Huntington's disease, a fatal genetic illness that causes the breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, have up to 80 percent less cancer than the general population.

Northwestern Medicine scientists have discovered why Huntington's is so toxic to cancer cells and harnessed it for a novel approach to treat cancer, a new study reports.

Huntington's is caused by an over abundance of a certain type of repeating RNA sequences in one gene, huntingtin, present in every cell. The defect that causes the disease also is highly toxic to tumor cells. These repeating sequences -- in the form of so-called small interfering RNAs -- attack genes in the cell that are critical for survival. Nerve cells in the brain are vulnerable to this form of cell death, however, cancer cells appear to be much more susceptible.

"This molecule is a super assassin against all tumor cells," said senior author Marcus Peter, the Tom D. Spies Professor of Cancer Metabolism at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. "We've never seen anything this powerful."

Huntington's disease deteriorates a person's physical and mental abilities during their prime working years and has no cure.

The study will be published Feb. 12 in the journal EMBO Reports.

To test the super assassin molecule in a treatment situation, Peter collaborated with Dr. Shad Thaxton, associate professor of urology at Feinberg, to deliver the molecule in nanoparticles to mice with human ovarian cancer. The treatment significantly reduced the tumor growth with no toxicity to the mice, Peter said. Importantly, the tumors did not develop resistance to this form of cancer treatment.

Peter and Thaxton are now refining the delivery method to increase its efficacy in reaching the tumor. The other challenge for the scientists is figuring out how to stabilize the nanoparticles, so they can be stored.

First and co-corresponding author Andrea Murmann, research assistant professor in medicine at Feinberg, also used the molecule to treat human and mouse ovarian, breast, prostate, liver, brain, lung, skin and colon cancer cell lines. The molecule killed all cancer cells in both species.

The Huntington's cancer weapon was discovered by Murmann, who had worked with Peter on earlier research that identified an ancient kill-switch present in all cells that destroys cancer.

"I thought maybe there is a situation where this kill switch is overactive in certain people, and where it could cause loss of tissues," Murmann said. "These patients would not only have a disease with an RNA component, but they also had to have less cancer."

She started searching for diseases that have a lower rate of cancer and had a suspected contribution of RNA to disease pathology. Huntington's was the most prominent.

When she looked at the repeating sequences in huntingtin, the gene that causes the disease, she saw a similar composition to the earlier kill switch Peter had found. Both were rich in the C and G nucleotides (molecules that form the building blocks of DNA and RNA).

"Toxicity goes together with C and G richness," Murmann said. "Those similarities triggered our curiosity."

In the case of people who have Huntington's, the gene huntingtin has too many repeating sequences of the triplet sequence CAG. The longer the repeating sequence, the earlier they will develop the disease.

"We believe a short-term treatment cancer therapy for a few weeks might be possible, where we could treat a patient to kill the cancer cells without causing the neurological issues that Huntington's patients suffer from," Peter said.

Peter also is co-leader of the Translational Research in Solid Tumors Program at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

Huntington's patients have a lifetime exposure to these toxic RNA sequences, but generally don't develop symptoms of the disease until age 40, he noted.

Every child of a parent with Huntington's has 50/50 chance of carrying the faulty gene. Today, there are approximately 30,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease.

###

The research was supported in part by funding from the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute grant R35CA197450 and The Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Developmental Therapeutic Institute.For the first time, researchers measure gravitation with a transportable optical clock, paving the way for standardised measurement of the Earth's surface

A European collaboration involving clock experts from the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and the Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica (INRIM) has used one of the world's transportable optical atomic clocks to measure gravitation for the first time. The results of the experiment were published in Nature Physics.

Until now, such delicate clocks have been restricted to laboratories at a few major research institutions, however, researchers at PTB have developed a transportable strontium optical lattice clock, opening up the possibility of performing measurements in the field. The transportable clock was driven in a vibration-damped and temperature-stabilised trailer to the French Modane Underground Laboratory (LSM). Operated by Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and Grenoble-Alpes University, the multidisciplinary lab is located in the middle of the Frejus road tunnel between France and Italy.

There, the team measured the gravity potential difference between the exact location of the clock inside the mountain and a second clock at INRIM - located 90 km away in Torino, Italy, at a height difference of about 1,000 m.

The accurate comparison of the two clocks was made possible using a 150 km long optical fibre link, set up by INRIM, and a frequency comb from NPL, to connect the clock to the link. Researchers from Leibniz Universitat Hannover also determined the gravity potential difference using conventional geodetic techniques, and the two measurements were shown to be consistent.

With improvements to the accuracy of the transportable optical clock, this technique has the potential to resolve height differences as small as 1 cm across the Earth's surface. The advantage of using optical clocks is that they can make measurements at specific points, in contrast to satellite-based measurements, such as GRACE and GOCE, which average the gravity potential over length scales of about 100 km.

This novel method could lead to higher resolution measurements of the Earth's gravity potential, allowing scientists to monitor, with unprecedented accuracy, continental height changes related to sea levels and the dynamics of ocean currents. It will also lead to more consistent national height systems.

Currently, different countries measure the Earth's surface in the same way, but relative to different reference levels. This has led to problems - one such being the Hochrhein Bridge between Germany and Switzerland, where construction on each side used different sea level calculations, leading to a 54 cm discrepancy between the two sides.

Achieving consistency between national height systems will help to prevent costly mistakes from happening in engineering and construction projects. Improved measurements of gravity potential may also help to improve our understanding of geodynamic effects associated with mass changes under the Earth's surface.

This type of measurement of height will also help us to monitor changing sea levels in real-time, allowing us to track seasonal and long-term trends in ice sheet masses and overall ocean mass changes. Such data provides critical input into models used to study and forecast the effects of climate change.

Helen Margolis, Fellow in Optical Frequency Standards and Metrology at NPL, said:"Our proof-of-principle experiment demonstrates that optical clocks could provide a way to eliminate discrepancies and harmonise measurements made across national borders." "One day such technology could help to monitor sea level changes resulting from climate change."

Christian Lisdat, Leader of the group 'Optical Lattice Clocks' at PTB, said: "Optical clocks are deemed to be the next generation atomic clocks - operating not only in laboratories but also as mobile precision instruments." "This cooperation proves again how disciplines such as physics or metrology, geodesy and climate impact research can mutually benefit each other."

Davide Calonico, Leader of the group 'Optical Lattice Clocks and Fibre links' at INRIM, said: "We demonstrated that optical clocks are valuable quantum sensors, and their quantum technology is beneficial outside primary metrology, in geodesy." "Together, optical clocks and optical fiber links offer the possibility to access new and fascinating scientific investigation"

Heiner Denker, Principal Investigator for Relativistic Geodesy and Gravimetry within geo-Q, at Leibniz Universitat Hannover, said: "The newly developed optical clocks have the potential to revolutionise geodetic height determination, as they can overcome some of the limitations of classical geodetic techniques." "Optical clocks could help to establish a unified world height reference system with significant impact on geodynamic and climate research."

###

References

'Geodesy and metrology with a transportable optical clock' Grotti et al., Nature Physics, DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41567-017-0042-3

About NPL:

NPL is the UK's National Measurement Institute, providing the measurement capability that underpins the UK's prosperity and quality of life. From new antibiotics to tackle resistance and more effective cancer treatments, to secure quantum communications and superfast 5G, technological advances must be built on a foundation of reliable measurement to succeed. Building on over a century's worth of expertise, our science, engineering and technology provides this foundation and helps to make the impossible possible. We save lives, protect the environment and enable citizens to feel safe and secure, as well as support international trade and commercial innovation. As a national laboratory, our advice is always impartial and independent, meaning consumers, investors, policymakers and entrepreneurs can always rely on the work we do. Based in Teddington, south-west London, NPL employs over 600 scientists. NPL also has regional bases across the UK, including at the University of Surrey, the University of Strathclyde, the University of Cambridge and the University of Huddersfield's 3M Buckley Innovation Centre(http://www.npl.co.uk, https://twitter.com/NPL, https://www.facebook.com/npldigital, https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-physical-laboratory)

About PTB:

The Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, Germany's National Metrology Institute (NMI), is a scientific and technical higher federal authority falling under the competence of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. In Braunschweig and Berlin, time is measured with atomic clocks, length is measured even deeply in the nano-world, scientists investigate fundamental questions related to physical units, and we calibrate measurement devices to satisfy highest requirements on accuracy. The Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt thus belongs to the first addresses in the international world of metrology. As the National Metrology Institute, PTB is Germany's highest authority when it comes to correct and reliable measurements. PTB employs about 1900 staff. (http://www.ptb.de)

About Leibniz Universitat Hannover:

Founded in 1831 by the scholar Karl Karmarsch, the "Higher Trade School of Hannover " started with only 64 students. Today, Leibniz Universitat Hannover is the second largest university in Lower Saxony with around 28,700 students. More than 3,000 scientists work on nine faculties with more than 160 institutes. The university offers a wide range of study opportunities with around 90 study subjects and more than 180 study and part-study courses. The spectrum ranges from engineering and natural sciences, architecture and environmental planning, law, social sciences, economics and business administration to the humanities. Only few universities in Germany are able to offer a comparable range of subjects. In research, international and interdisciplinary aspects of mechanical engineering, physics and biomedical engineering are continuously being expanded.

About INRIM:

The Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica (INRIM), based in Turin, is a public research centre acting as Italy's National Metrology Institute (NMI) and employs 200 people. INRIM realises, maintains and develops the national reference standards of the measurement units of the International System (SI). Basic and applied research in different fields - such as materials science, nanoscience, quantum optics, studies on the fundamental constants of physics - as well as the development of new measurement technologies and instruments enhance the metrology activity. INRIM promotes education, in particular through a PhD course in Metrology. In order to meet the needs of industry, the institute has a dedicated department at direct contact with the world of production and providing consultancy, calibration, and testing services.For the first time, researchers have isolated a natural resistance gene to Septoria, Europe's most economically damaging wheat disease and a fungal threat to wheat crops globally

What is so encouraging about the first successful unpicking of a wheat gene that confers resistance to a devastating fungal disease is the promise it holds for deciphering other resistance genes, en route to a natural barrier to infection, at a time when the fungus has already developed tolerance to most types of fungicides.

The gene, called Stb6, confers resistance to Septoria tritici blotch (STB, or Septoria), the main leaf disease of wheat in temperate regions and a major threat for wheat production globally, capable of halving crop yields. The disease is caused by the resilient fungal pathogen, Zymoseptoria tritici.

Although the presence of the gene has been known for nearly 20 years, the gene's mapping and isolation have taken five years to complete. The work, from an Anglo-French team led by Kostya Kanyuka at Rothamsted Research and Cyrille Saintenac at the National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), is reported today in Nature Genetics.

"Isolation of Stb6 is a major breakthrough that will allow deeper understanding of disease resistance mechanisms operating in wheat against this important pathogen," says Kanyuka. "In the long term, it should also help us to develop better disease control strategies."

Saintenac agrees: "Identification of the Stb6 gene was made possible through the dedicated efforts of international collaborators. It paves the way to new Stb genes' discoveries and to a better management of this devastating wheat disease."

Kanyuka notes that the Stb6 gene is effective against only a fraction of fungal strains, specifically those strains that secrete a matching protein, called AvrStb6. The Stb6 protein somehow recognises this fungal protein, which leads to activation of the defence response in wheat.

"Nevertheless, this gene will be useful in combination with other STB resistance genes, and our study provides tools for rapid lab-based tracing of Stb6 in wheat breeding lines," says Kanyuka.

Kanyuka also highlights the gene's importance in better understanding of the fundamental science of disease control. Most resistance genes, in wheat and other plants, code for protein receptors located inside cells; the Stb6 gene codes for a receptor protein on the cell's surface.

"This knowledge will facilitate identification and isolation of additional resistance genes for improved control of Septoria," adds Kanyuka.

For Cristobal Uauy, a wheat geneticist at the John Innes Centre who was also part of the Anglo-French team, the work "exemplifies the collaboration between Rothamsted and JIC in developing sequenced mutant populations and how sharing these resources with our international partners allowed the team to identify and characterise more quickly this important gene."

###

NOTES TO EDITORS

Publication: Wheat receptor kinase-like protein Stb6 controls gene-for-gene resistance to fungal pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici [link live after publication; for embargoed copies, contact bill.oneill@rothamsted.ac.uk]

Images: Rothamsted Flickr

Rothamsted Research contacts:

Kostya Kanyuka, Functional Genomics Scientist

Department of Biointeractions and Crop Protection

Tel: +44 (0) 1582 938 232

E-mail: kostya.kanyuka@rothamsted.ac.uk

Susan Watts, Head of Communications

Tel: +44 (0) 1582 938 109

Mob: +44 (0) 7964 832 719

E-mail: susan.watts@rothamsted.ac.uk

About Rothamsted Research

Rothamsted Research is the oldest agricultural research institute in the world. We work from gene to field with a proud history of ground-breaking discoveries. Our founders, in 1843, were the pioneers of modern agriculture, and we are known for our imaginative science and our collaborative influence on fresh thinking and farming practices. Through independent science and innovation, we make significant contributions to improving agri-food systems in the UK and internationally. In terms of its economic contribution, the cumulative impact of our work in the UK exceeds 3000 million a year (Rothamsted Research and the Value of Excellence, by Sean Rickard, 2015). Our strength lies in our systems approach, which combines science and strategic research, interdisciplinary teams and partnerships. Rothamsted is also home to three unique resources. These National Capabilities are open to researchers from all over the world: The Long-Term Experiments, Rothamsted Insect Survey and the North Wyke Farm Platform. We are strategically funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), with additional support from other national and international funding streams, and from industry.

For more information, visit https://www.rothamsted.ac.uk/; Twitter @Rothamsted

About BBSRC

BBSRC invests in world-class bioscience research and training on behalf of the UK public. Our aim is to further scientific knowledge, to promote economic growth, wealth and job creation and to improve quality of life in the UK and beyond. Funded by Government, BBSRC invested over 469M in world-class bioscience in 2016-17. We support research and training in universities and strategically funded institutes. BBSRC research and the people we fund are helping society to meet major challenges, including food security, green energy and healthier, longer lives. Our investments underpin important UK economic sectors, such as farming, food, industrial biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA) contacts:

Cyrille Saintenac, INRA researcher

Joint Research Unit for Genetics, Diversity and Ecophysiology of Cereals

INRA - Universite Clermont Auvergne

Tel: + 33 (0) 4 43 76 15 26

E-mail: cyrille.saintenac@inra.fr

Catherine Foucaud-Scheunemann, Media Communications

Tel: +33 1 (0) 1 42 75 91 69

E-mail: catherine.foucaud-scheunemann@inra.fr

About National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA)

Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique is the largest agricultural research institute in Europe, with 8,417 researchers, engineers, and technicians (02/2018), and is the second largest producer of agricultural science publications. INRA contributes to development of knowledge and innovation in the fields of food, agriculture, and the environment. INRA carries out its work across 13 scientific divisions through a research network that is unique in Europe, with more than 200 research units and 50 experimental units located in 17 research centres throughout France. Its aim is to contribute internationally to the development of healthy, high-quality food, competitive and sustainable agriculture, and a protected and valued environment.

John Innes Centre contacts:

Cristobal Uauy, Wheat Geneticist

Tel: +44 (0) 1603 450 195

E-mail: cristobal.uauy@jic.ac.uk

Adrian Galvin, Communications and Media Manager

Tel: +44 (0) 1603 450 238

E-mail: adrian.galvin@jic.ac.uk

About John Innes Centre

The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant science, research, genetics and microbiology. The research we do makes use of a wide range of disciplines in biological and chemical sciences, including microbiology, cell biology, biochemistry, chemistry, genetics, molecular biology, computational and mathematical biology. We receive funding from the UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) for four Institute Strategic Programs (ISPs) that directly address BBSRC strategic objectives in food security, human health and industrial biotechnology: Genes in the Environment; Plant Health (in partnership with The Sainsbury Laboratory); Molecules from Nature; Designing Future Wheat (a cross-institute strategic programme).Christians who are comparatively well-represented in the medical field, like Korean-Americans, understand the relationship between faith and health differently than those who are not, like African-Americans and Latinos. Eighty percent of black and Latino Americans interviewed in a recent Rice University study said they believe in the potential healing power of religious faith, while nearly two-thirds of Korean-Americans interviewed said that a religious environment mainly provides support for individuals with regard to health decisions, but made few mentions of prayer or divine healing.

"Heaven and Health: How Black, Latino and Korean Christians View the Relationship Between Faith and Health" appears in an upcoming edition of Review of Religious Research. Rice Ph.D students Daniel Bolger and Cleve Tinsley co-authored the paper with Elaine Howard Ecklund, founding director of Rice's Religion and Public Life Program and the Herbert S. Autrey Chair in Social Sciences. The authors sought to learn more about how congregants view the role of church in health promotion.

Bolger, Tinsley and Ecklund examined views on the relationship between faith and health for two groups that are overrepresented in American Christianity and underrepresented in medical careers - African-Americans and Latinos. They also looked at the views of a group that is similarly religious but comparatively well-represented in medical professions - Korean-Americans. The authors said they were motivated to pursue this research by the growing number of studies on collaborations between churches and health care providers. Such partnerships are often established without consideration of how racial representation in medical professions might shape distrust of medicine in religious communities.

"Each of the groups emphasized the prevalence of health initiatives already taking place in their congregations, ranging from exercise classes to informational seminars," Ecklund said. "But while each group expressed optimism about potential partnerships between churches and medical providers, the groups differed in their views on the relationship between faith and health."

While the majority of blacks and Latinos interviewed expressed confidence in the potential healing power of Christianity, most Koreans interviewed said that a religious environment can provide support for individuals with regard to making health decisions (such as which doctor to visit for a specific condition), but they did not often mention prayer or divine healing.

Excerpts from interviews with each group are included in the paper.

"Every time that I'm sick, I believe that God can heal my sickness," said one member of a Latino church. Another member said, "I trust medicine a lot. But I think my first choice is God."

Ecklund said that the view of God as the creator of science helped congregants substantiate trust in medicine. One African-American church member said, "I think that God gives us access to certain things to help us to be better, to serve him more."

This did not preclude mistrust on the part of the interview respondents, however, as Tinsley noted: "Narratives regarding distrust of the medical community arose almost exclusively among African-American respondents. The Tuskegee syphilis experiment seemed to have a notable legacy within this community's cultural memory, as the experiment came up unsolicited."

Korean-American respondents often saw the benefits of religion as practical, as they often downplayed the efficacy of prayer while highlighting the support of the religious community, support that often came from medical professionals within the church. One Korean-American surveyed said about the relationship between faith and health: "I think mostly in terms of just realizing that (congregation members are) not alone, that there is a community out there that will go through it with you type of thing. More of a support I suppose."

Another respondent said that while faith "plays a tremendous role" in coping with the stress that is related to health issues, it should not necessarily be the "primary way to deal with an actual ailment."

The paper included interviews with 19 church leaders representing 18 different organizations and 28 congregation members as well as observations from three different Christian congregations. The respondents were selected from the Religion, Inequality, and Science Education project, a larger study exploring how minority Christian congregations view science and medicine.

###

Ecklund, Tinsley and Bolger hope the study will encourage more research on how religion affects the health of individuals in the U.S. and the rest of the world.

The research was supported by Rice University's Faculty Initiatives Fund.

This news release can be found online at http://news.rice.edu.

Related materials:

Rice University Religion and Public Life Program: https://rplp.rice.edu

Elaine Howard Ecklund website: http://www.elainehowardecklund.com/

Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,970 undergraduates and 2,934 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for quality of life and for lots of race/class interaction and No. 2 for happiest students by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger's Personal Finance. To read "What they're saying about Rice," go to http://tinyurl.com/RiceUniversityoverview.Ongoing monitoring of wild Tasmanian devils shows that overall population numbers are continuing to decline, due to the presence of devil facial tumour disease. Results of this research--conducted by the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program (STDP) in collaboration with staff from the Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (DPIPWE), San Diego Zoo Global, Toledo Zoo and the University of Tasmania--were published this month in the Journal of Applied Ecology, in a paper titled "Density Trends and Demographic Signals Uncover the Long-term Impact of Transmissible Cancer in Tasmanian Devils."

Tasmanian devils face extinction in the wild because of devil facial tumor disease, a rare, contagious cancer found only in devils. It is transmitted from one animal to another through biting, a common behavior among devils when mating and feeding. The disease kills all infected devils within 6 to 12 months, and there is no known cure or vaccine. Lead author Billie Lazenby, Ph.D., wildlife biologist with the STDP, indicated that research of devil densities at monitoring sites, together with spotlight counts around the state, show that populations have decreased by about 80 percent following the emergence of devil facial tumour disease (DFTD).

"While the number of Tasmanian devils in the wild continues to decline and DFTD is spreading, to date, devils are still found in the wild in Tasmania," she said. "We are now dealing with very small and potentially isolated groups of devils across Tasmania. The ongoing impact of DFTD, which continues to cause high mortality in devils, could make them vulnerable to other threats."

Research further indicates that remaining wild populations are showing slight reproductive changes, possibly in response to the challenges posed by the disease. "Devils in diseased areas are now breeding younger and having more pouch young, which has allowed them to persist at low levels in the wild," said Mathias Tobler, Ph.D., Population Sustainability scientist with San Diego Zoo Global. "This research has shown the structure of the wild devil populations in diseased areas has shifted dramatically, with devils over the age of 2 being very rare, compared to sites before DFTD emerged. Earlier breeding in young devils means that they are contracting DFTD younger, often as 1-year-olds."

Although these reproductive shifts are allowing the populations of this species to maintain, the overall reduction may indicate that the species is at greater risk of extinction due to other factors. "While devils have persisted to date in the wild, such large reductions in their numbers and the change in their age structure means their populations are impacted more by other threats, such as roadkill, bushfire, loss of genetic diversity, variation in food availability caused by drought and changes in the ecosystem as it responds to the loss of devils in the wild," said David Pemberton, Ph.D., STDP program manager and senior author. "Efforts to manage the devils, such as the development of an immunotherapy, are ongoing, but remain in a research-and-development phase."

Tasmanian devils are listed as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. They are native to the island state of Tasmania, which is part of Australia, where they live in forest, woodland and agricultural areas. Tasmanian devils are nocturnal hunters and use their keen senses of smell and hearing to find prey or carrion. They can give off a fierce snarl and high-pitched scream, which can be heard at feeding time, to establish dominance. San Diego Zoo Global is working with the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program and zoos and universities in Australia to create disease-free populations of this species, to ensure the species does not go extinct.

###

About San Diego Zoo Global

Bringing species back from the brink of extinction is the goal of San Diego Zoo Global. As a leader in conservation, the work of San Diego Zoo Global includes on-site wildlife conservation efforts (representing both plants and animals) at the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and San Diego Institute for Conservation Research, as well as international field programs on six continents. The work of these entities is inspiring children through the San Diego Zoo Kids network, reaching out through the internet and in children's hospitals nationwide. The work of San Diego Zoo Global is made possible by the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy and is supported in part by the Foundation of San Diego Zoo Global.An imaging study of the brain and spinal cord published in JNeurosci reveals pain processing changes in healthy men after receiving a short-term application of a strong opioid. The research provides a plausible mechanism underlying increased pain sensitivity after discontinuation of opioid medication.

Opioids are known to inhibit pain, but it is increasingly recognized that they can also increase sensitivity to pain in certain situations. Dr. Sprenger and colleagues investigated changes in the brain and the spinal cord after application of the potent opioid remifentanil corresponding to increased sensitivity to heat pain stimuli applied to the forearm of healthy male adults. Functional magnetic resonance imaging found altered signaling in a network that connects frontal brain regions via the brainstem with the spinal cord that has a crucial role in regulating pain. Since remifentanil has a very short half-life and was mostly cleared from the blood when the changes occurred, these results cannot be attributed to direct effects of the drug. Instead, they indicate altered pain processing in the central nervous system subsequent to opioid application.

###

Article: Altered signaling in the descending pain modulatory system after short-term infusion of the -opioid agonist remifentanil

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2496-17.2018

Corresponding author: Christian Sprenger (University-Medical-Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany), c.sprenger@uke.de or cs910@cam.ac.uk

Phone: +49-(0)40-7410-27302

About JNeurosci

JNeurosci, the Society for Neuroscience's first journal, was launched in 1981 as a means to communicate the findings of the highest quality neuroscience research to the growing field. Today the journal remains committed to publishing cutting-edge neuroscience that will have an immediate and lasting scientific impact while responding to authors' changing publishing needs, representing breadth of the field and diversity in authorship.

About The Society for Neuroscience

The Society for Neuroscience is the world's largest organization of scientists and physicians devoted to understanding the brain and nervous system. The nonprofit organization, founded in 1969, now has nearly 37,000 members in more than 90 countries and over 130 chapters worldwide.Young adults with thinner cortex in particular brain regions are more impulsive during a decision-making task than teens with thicker cortex, according to a large correlational study of adolescents from the Philadelphia Neurodevelopmental Cohort. The results, published in JNeurosci, suggest that individual differences in brain structure could be used to identify youth at higher risk of making dangerous choices.

In a previous study of adults, cortical thickness was found to be associated with a preference for small, immediate rewards over larger, delayed rewards. This trait, known as delay discounting, is a measure of impulsivity that reflects the decreasing value of a reward the longer it takes to receive it.

Marieta Pehlivanova, Joseph Kable, Theodore Satterthwaite and colleagues studied whether this relationship between cortical thickness and reward preference holds true for teens, whose brains are undergoing dramatic structural changes. The researchers analyzed behavioral and neuroimaging data collected from 427 boys and girls (ages 9.3-24.3) who made hypothetical choices between receiving smaller amounts of money immediately or larger sums up to six months later. The thickness of 19 structural brain networks, which included regions involved in value-based decision-making, was related to the degree of delay discounting, with a thinner cortex associated with greater delay discounting. Cortical thickness predicted teens' delay discounting above and beyond cognitive and demographic variables, such as mother's level of education.

###

Article: Diminished Cortical Thickness is Associated with Impulsive Choice in Adolescence

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2200-17.2018

Corresponding author: Theodore Satterthwaite (Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA), sattertt@upenn.edu

About JNeurosci

JNeurosci, the Society for Neuroscience's first journal, was launched in 1981 as a means to communicate the findings of the highest quality neuroscience research to the growing field. Today the journal remains committed to publishing cutting-edge neuroscience that will have an immediate and lasting scientific impact while responding to authors' changing publishing needs, representing breadth of the field and diversity in authorship.

About The Society for Neuroscience

The Society for Neuroscience is the world's largest organization of scientists and physicians devoted to understanding the brain and nervous system. The nonprofit organization, founded in 1969, now has nearly 37,000 members in more than 90 countries and over 130 chapters worldwide.A newly identified protein can be manipulated to make opioid painkillers effective at lower doses while also muting the reward mechanism that leads to addiction, Mount Sinai researchers have found.

The protein, RGSz1 (Regulator of G protein signaling z1), which is expressed in brain regions that mediate analgesic responses, is part of an intracellular network that controls the pain-relieving effects of opioid analgesics like morphine, fentanyl, and methadone without increasing the risk of reward or dependence, according to the study conducted in mouse models at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and published February 12 in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The mechanisms uncovered in this study may provide novel avenues for pharmacological interventions that can be used to optimize the actions of opioid medications, leading to safer and less addictive treatments.

Opioids are powerful analgesics, but when they are used long-term, they promote dependence and can easily transition to addiction. Patients who receive opioids for chronic pain require higher amounts of the drug over time as they develop analgesic tolerance. The need for higher amounts not only results in severe and often life-threatening adverse effects, but it also increases the risk for dependence and addiction. Amidst the current opioid crisis in the United States, there is an immediate need to develop novel therapeutic interventions for safer and more efficient analgesics.

The development of safer opioids is challenging because opioid receptors are expressed throughout the brain and not just in the cells mediating pain relief. The Mount Sinai research team targeted an intracellular network that controls the actions of opioids primarily in the periaqueductal gray, a brain region that plays a critical role in analgesic responses. Using genetic mouse models for global or brain region-targeted manipulation of RGSz1 expression, Mount Sinai researchers identified RGSz1 as a negative modulator of opioid analgesia, and a tolerance-promoting factor. Mice that lacked the gene responsible for encoding RGSz1 (RGSz1 knockout mice) responded to significantly lower doses of opioids to achieve pain relief. Furthermore, when RGSz1 activity was blocked, opioids were less rewarding, providing further evidence that RGSz1-controlled pathways may be targeted to optimize the therapeutic actions of opioids.

"Our discovery that RGSz1 and RGSz1 regulated pathways can be targeted to promote analgesia is very exciting because it enables us to develop strategies for the use of low opioid doses for pain relief," says Venetia Zachariou, PhD, Associate Professor in the Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, the Department of Pharmacological Sciences, The Friedman Brain Institute, and The Addiction Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

Additionally, the research team discovered that RGSz1 competes with another RGS protein, Axin 2, and this competition controls the function of the protein -catenin. -catenin plays an important role in opioid actions by promoting the expression of genes that counteract the maladaptive changes associated with analgesic tolerance. This is another factor uncovered in this study that provides insight about the cellular and molecular pathways that mediate the actions of opioids in specific brain regions or cell types, which is essential for the development of safer therapeutics for analgesia or addiction.

"RGSz1 is expressed only in subsets of neurons that mediate opioid actions. The actions of opioids in addiction-related networks are mediated by distinct RGS proteins. We are now screening currently prescribed opioids as well as new compounds to determine their abuse potential and analgesic efficacy based on the RGS protein they activate. That knowledge will be power in the fight against this deadly opioid epidemic," says Dr. Zachariou.

###

Researchers from UT Southwestern Medical Center contributed to this research.

The study was supported by NINDS NS086444 and NS098264.

About the Mount Sinai Health System

The Mount Sinai Health System is New York City's largest integrated delivery system encompassing seven hospital campuses, a leading medical school, and a vast network of ambulatory practices throughout the greater New York region. Mount Sinai's vision is to produce the safest care, the highest quality, the highest satisfaction, the best access and the best value of any health system in the nation. The System includes approximately 7,100 primary and specialty care physicians; 10 joint-venture ambulatory surgery centers; more than 140 ambulatory practices throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and 31 affiliated community health centers. Physicians are affiliated with the renowned Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, which is ranked among the highest in the nation in National Institutes of Health funding per investigator. The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked No. 18 on U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" of top U.S. hospitals; it is one of the nation's top 20 hospitals in Cardiology/Heart Surgery, Diabetes/Endocrinology, Gastroenterology/GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Nephrology, and Neurology/Neurosurgery, and in the top 50 in four other specialties in the 2017-2018 "Best Hospitals" issue. Mount Sinai's Kravis Children's Hospital also is ranked in six out of ten pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is ranked 12th nationally for Ophthalmology and 50th for Ear, Nose, and Throat, while Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Mount Sinai St. Luke's and Mount Sinai West are ranked regionally. For more information, visit http://www.mountsinai.org/, or find Mount Sinai on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.Another of Scott's budget priorities is $1 million for additional security at Jewish day schools in Florida. The House upped the ante, setting aside $2 million for that in language that follows budget line item No. 116, but the project did not appear in the first version of the Senate budget.The Guggenheim Museum by star architect Frank Gehry led to an economic boom in the Spanish city of Bilbao. This "Bilbao Effect" is appealing to many urban planners and politicians who look to better position their cities in economic and social terms by building exceptional architectural projects. Researchers at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) have studied three projects to investigate whether or not the desired effects materialize.

Can star architecture have a positive impact on the future of a city? The Guggenheim Museum made it possible for the city of Bilbao to re-invent itself. The Spanish industrial city was experiencing economic decline. After the opening of the museum the city was able to reposition itself economically, transforming itself into a cultural metropolis.

Many cities are hoping to reap similar benefits by means of star architecture. "The impact of these architectural projects on small and medium-sized cities in particular remains underinvestigated," explains Prof. Alain Thierstein of the TUM Chair for Urban Development. A team comprising members from the Chair, HafenCity University Hamburg and the Technische Universitat Berlin has thus examined three case-studies: the Kunsthaus Graz, the culture and convention center Luzern (KKL) and the phaeno science center in Wolfsburg. Since these structures have already been in existence for over 15 years, observation of long-term effects is also possible.

Positive effects, but no repositioning

The scientists analyzed the interaction of economic factors, the design of the buildings and its socio-cultural effects. They determined that although the projects have positive economic effects, for example expansion of tourism and cultural programs, these effects do not result in a clearly evident repositioning.

A causal relationship between the economic effects of the projects and the socio-economic changes, for example in the labor market or in terms of tourism, could not be identified. Furthermore, not all economic effects are immediately visible, says Dr. Nadia Alaily-Mattar, project manager and research associate at the TUM Chair for Urban Development. "In Wolfsburg, the realization of phaeno led to an increase in the self-confidence of the politicians and local administrative authorities." This social effect may also have positive economic effects on the city in the long term.

Architecture should not be overlooked

In all three cases the researchers observed a shift in the spatial relationships of the city. In Graz the Kunsthaus forms a bridge linking urban districts which were previously perceived as separate and evaluated differently in social terms. In Lucerne the KKL has strengthened the convergence of countryside and city. The phaeno had a similar impact on Wolfsburg: The area across from the city's main train station was of significant importance for the city, but was underutilized. The phaeno integrated this area into the rest of the city.

These structural changes are the most sustainable effects of the projects, Alaily-Mattar points out, adding that economic and socio-cultural effects can often be temporary and ephemeral. "Morphological effects are usually more stable and less dependent on the 'Star Factor'. The desire on the part of urban planners and politicians to achieve certain impacts by means of star architecture must not overlook the contribution made by the architecture itself. In addition to economic and socio-cultural effects, the influence of star architecture on the city is spatial as well."

###

The project was supported by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft or DFG).

Publication:

Nadia Alaily-Mattar, Johannes Dreher, Alain Thierstein, Repositioning cities through star architecture: how does it work?, Journal of Urban Design; DOI: 10.1080/13574809.2017.1408401

Link: https://doi.org/10.1080/13574809.2017.1408401

Contact:

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Chair for Urban Development

Prof. Dr. Alain Thierstein

+49 (89) 289 - 22488

thierstein@tum.de

Dr. Nadia Alaily-Mattar

+49 (89) 289 - 22387

n.alaily-mattar@tum.deDrivers in the United States are more likely to be in a fatal traffic crash during the annual April 20 cannabis celebration, according to new research from the University of British Columbia.

"One-fifth of Americans now live in states that have legalized recreational cannabis, and legalization is set to occur for all Canadians in July 2018," said lead researcher Dr. John Staples, a clinical assistant professor of medicine and scientist at UBC's Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences. "We hope that legalization doesn't lead to more people driving while high."

Along with University of Toronto professor Dr. Donald Redelmeier, Staples examined 25 years of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data on all fatal traffic crashes in the United States. They compared the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes after 4:20 p.m. on April 20 with the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes during the same time intervals on control days one week earlier and one week later.

The investigators found that April 20 was associated with a 12 per cent increase in the risk of a fatal traffic crash. Among drivers younger than 21 years of age, the risk was 38 per cent higher than on control days. The overall increase amounted to 142 additional deaths over the 25-year study period.

Since the 4/20 holiday was first popularized in 1991, annual events in Denver, San Francisco, Vancouver, and other cities have grown to include tens of thousands of attendees. It isn't known how commonly drivers get behind the wheel while high on 4/20, but a 2011 study of U.S. college freshmen found 44 per cent of cannabis users drove soon after consuming marijuana in the month prior to the survey. Only half of cannabis users in the 2017 Canadian Cannabis Survey thought cannabis use affected driving.

"Assuming fewer than 10 per cent of Americans drive while high on April 20, our results suggest that drug use at 4/20 celebrations more than doubles the risk of a fatal crash," said Redelmeier.

Staples and Redelmeier hope that authorities will respond to these results by encouraging safer 4/20 travel options, including public transit, rideshares, taxis and designated drivers. The investigators also note that cannabis retailers and 4/20 event organizers have an opportunity to serve their customers and save lives by warning users not to drive while high.

As Canada and other places move toward legalization, Staples says it's also important to employ multiple strategies to reduce driving under the influence of drugs throughout the year.

"Driving is a potentially dangerous activity," Staples said. "Improving road safety requires both policymakers and drivers to make smart decisions. If you're going to get behind the wheel, buckle up, put the phone away, don't speed, stay sober and don't drive high."

###

The study was published today in JAMA Internal Medicine. The research was supported by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, the Canadian Institutes for Health Research, and the Canada Research Chair in Medical Decision Science.Irvine, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 -- While serious violations like those in the Flint, Michigan, crisis are rare, ensuring reliable access to safe drinking water poses challenges for communities across the country, according to a recent study led by the University of California, Irvine.

Researchers found that between 1982 and 2015, 9 million to 45 million people annually were affected by water quality issues - and that low-income, rural regions were most vulnerable. Infractions were more numerous in "hot spots" in Texas, Oklahoma and Idaho, suggesting that these systems struggle with recurring problems.

For this first nationwide assessment of drinking water quality over several decades, trends in health-related incidents were evaluated along with vulnerability factors possibly influencing the frequency of violations since the 1974 passage of the Safe Drinking Water Act. Not all infractions pose immediate health concerns, but drinking water contaminants can cause short-term illnesses such as gastroenteritis, as well as chronic conditions including cancer and neurological disorders.

"We felt that in the aftermath of the Flint lead crisis, there was an urgent need to assess the current state of drinking water in the U.S.," said study author Maura Allaire, UCI assistant professor of urban planning & public policy. "Generally, the country's utilities deliver high-quality water, but every year, about 7 to 8 percent of community systems do not meet health-related standards. Identifying hot spots and vulnerability factors associated with violations indicates the types of communities that can benefit from greater regulatory oversight and assistance to help reduce quality issues, improve compliance and ensure safe drinking water across the nation."

Study results appear in the early online edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences for the week of Feb. 12.

The research showed that rural areas tend to be less able to comply with quality regulations. Their community water systems experience financial strain due to declining populations, lower incomes, scarcity of technical expertise, and restricted access to loans and outside financing for infrastructure upgrades or major maintenance.

Compliance is associated with purchased water sources and private ownership. Purchased water is supplied by wholesale agencies, which have greater resources to meet federal standards, while private utilities have considerable assets at stake should they deliver poor-quality water and subsequently face lawsuits or takeover by a municipal government.

"Public policies that target underperforming utilities include prioritization of technical guidance and financial support," Allaire said. "Training can be expanded to address common operational deficiencies, such as protection of source water and better monitoring and maintenance. And, where feasible, purchased water contracts and consolidation of systems could provide a way to achieve economies of scale for improved treatment technologies."

###

Haowei Wu, Upmanu Lall, and Alan and Carol Silberstein of Columbia University contributed to the project, which received a NatureNet Science Fellowship, a National Science Foundation award (No. 1360446) and a grant from Columbia University's Earth Institute.

About the University of California, Irvine: Founded in 1965, UCI is the youngest member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The campus has produced three Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UCI has more than 30,000 students and offers 192 degree programs. It's located in one of the world's safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County's second-largest employer, contributing $5 billion annually to the local economy. For more on UCI, visit http://www.uci.edu.

Media access: Radio programs/stations may, for a fee, use an on-campus ISDN line to interview UCI faculty and experts, subject to availability and university approval. For more UCI news, visit news.uci.edu. Additional resources for journalists may be found at communications.uci.edu/for-journalists.

NOTE TO EDITORS: PHOTO AVAILABLE AT: https://news.uci.edu/2018/02/12/uci-led-study-identifies-hot-spots-of-water-quality-violations/

Contact:

Pat Harriman

949-824-9055

pharrima@uci.eduEUGENE, Ore. - (Feb. 12, 2018) - A fossilized trackway on public lands in Lake County, Oregon, may reveal clues about the ancient family dynamics of Columbian mammoths.

Recently excavated by a team from the University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History, the Bureau of Land Management and the University of Louisiana, the trackway includes 117 footprints thought to represent a number of adults as well as juvenile and infant mammoths.

Discovered by Museum of Natural and Cultural History paleontologist Greg Retallack during a 2014 class field trip on fossils at the UO, the Ice Age trackway is the focus of a new study appearing online ahead of print in the journal Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology.

Retallack returned to the site with the study's coauthors, including UO science librarian Dean Walton, in 2017. The team zeroed in on a 20-footprint track, dating to roughly 43,000 years ago, that exhibited some intriguing features.

"These prints were especially close together, and those on the right were more deeply impressed than those on the left-as if an adult mammoth had been limping," said Retallack, also a professor in the UO Department of Earth Sciences and the study's lead author.

But, as the study reveals, the limping animal wasn't alone: Two sets of smaller footprints appeared to be approaching and retreating from the limper's trackway.

"These juveniles may have been interacting with an injured adult female, returning to her repeatedly throughout the journey, possibly out of concern for her slow progress," Retallack said. "Such behavior has been observed with wounded adults in modern, matriarchal herds of African elephants."

The tracks were made in a layer of volcanic soil at Fossil Lake, a site first excavated by UO science professor Thomas Condon in 1876 and today administered by the Bureau of Land Management.

"America's public lands are some of the world's greatest outdoor laboratories. Localities such as this mammoth tracksite are unique parts of America's heritage and indicate that there are many special sites still to be discovered," said study co-author Brent Breithaupt, a paleontologist in the Wyoming State Office of the Bureau of Land Management.

Specimens from the 1876 Fossil Lake excavation-along with the rest of Condon's extensive assemblage of fossils and geologic specimens-were donated to UO in the early 1900s and form the core of the museum's Condon Fossil Collection, now under Retallack's direction and boasting upwards of 50,000 fossil specimens.

Last month a new state law went into effect, making the UO museum Oregon's default repository for fossils found on state lands. The museum is also a designated repository for artifacts and paleontological specimens collected from BLM-administered lands in Oregon, ensuring they are available to future generations for education and research.

As part of the 2017 study, Neffra Matthews of the BLM's National Operations Center in Denver, helped survey, map and document the trackway using photogrammetry, which helps scientists perform accurate measurements based on land-based or aerial photographs.

"There is a vast storehouse of natural history found on BLM-managed land, and it's exciting to work with researchers like Professor Retallack in capturing 3D data on fragile paleontological resources," she said.

Retallack said that trace fossils such as trackways can provide unique insights into natural history.

"Tracks sometimes tell more about ancient creatures than their bones, particularly when it comes to their behavior," he said. "It's amazing to see this kind of interaction preserved in the fossil record."

Elephants once roamed across much of North America. Woolly mammoths (Mammuthus primigenius) were common in Canada and Alaska. Columbian mammoths (Mammuthus columbi) occupied the region that became Washington state to South Dakota and south into Mexico. Most mammoths went extinct about 11,500 years ago, but some isolated Arctic island populations of woolly mammoth persisted until 4,000 years ago.

###

Co-authors on the paper with Breithaupt, Retallack, Walton and Matthews were James E. Martin of the University of Louisiana Geology Museum and Adrian P. Broz, a doctoral student in the UO Department of Earth Sciences who was among the students who found the site.

The excavation was funded by a Sandal Society grant from the UO's Museum of Natural and Cultural History and under a permit granted by the Bureau of Land Management.

Media Contacts: Kristin Strommer, Museum of Natural and Cultural History, University of Oregon, kstromme@uoregon.edu, 541-346-5083; and Greg Shine, Bureau of Land Management, gshine@blm.gov, 503-808-6306

Note: The UO is equipped with an on-campus television studio with a point-of-origin Vyvx connection, which provides broadcast-quality video to networks worldwide via fiber optic network. There also is video access to satellite uplink and audio access to an ISDN codec for broadcast-quality radio interviews.

Links:

About Retallack: https://earthsciences.uoregon.edu/profile/gregr/

Museum of Natural and Cultural History: http://natural-history.uoregon.edu

Museum on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/oregonnaturalhistoryThe very rare animals that reproduce asexually -- only about one in 1,000 of all living vertebrate species -- are thought to be at an evolutionary disadvantage compared with their sexually reproduced counterparts. But that theory doesn't hold true regarding the Amazon molly, an all-female fish species that has thrived for millennia in the fresh waters along the Mexico-Texas border.

To better understand how this fish's reproduction deviates from the norm, an international team of scientists has sequenced the first Amazon molly genome and the genomes of the original parental species that created this unique fish. Their findings suggest that the molly's thriving existence is not totally unexpected since they found the fish has a hardy genetic makeup that is often rare in nature and gives the animals some predicted survival benefits.

"It appears the stars aligned for this species," said first author Wesley C. Warren, PhD, an assistant director at the McDonnell Genome Institute at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. "The hybridization of two different species' genomes into one new one would require nearly perfect compatibility between the elements of those parent genomes to bypass the sexual reproduction practiced by most vertebrate species."

The findings are published Feb. 12 in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution.

Ever since scientists, in 1932, determined that the Amazon molly was the first known asexual vertebrate, they have wondered how this came to be.

One of the theories that spells out why asexual reproduction should stand in the way of a species' sustainability is the idea that if no new DNA is introduced during reproduction, then harmful gene mutations can accumulate over successive generations, leading to eventual extinction. Another hypothesis states that because asexual reproduction limits genetic diversity within a species, the animals eventually become unable to adapt to changes in the environment.

"The expectation is that these asexual organisms are at a genetic disadvantage," said Warren, also an assistant professor of genetics. "In nature, the Amazon molly is doing quite well."

The researchers found that the Amazon molly resulted from a sexual reproduction event involving two different species of fish, when an Atlantic molly first mated with a Sailfin molly 100,000 to 200,000 years ago. Since then, the resulting Amazon molly has been a hybrid species that remarkably has remained frozen in evolutionary time -- yet still continues to thrive.

"That's about 500,000 generations if you calculate it out to the present day," said Warren. "The expectation is that many harmful mutations would accumulate in that time, but that's not what we found."

The Amazon molly reproduces by "mating" with a male fish of a related species. But the male's DNA is not incorporated into the offspring. Instead, mating with the male fish triggers the replication of the entire maternal genome. In essence, mollies clone themselves. They don't lay eggs but instead give birth to large broods of live offspring.

Scientists have long theorized that clones, by failing to purge harmful mutations, should experience decay in the genome and eventual extinction over generations.

"This study caps an intensive, collaborative study, marking the first glimpse of the genomic features of an asexual vertebrate and setting up a platform for future molecular, cellular and developmental work in this interesting species," said Michael Lynch, PhD, director of the Biodesign Center for Mechanisms of Evolution at Arizona State University.

So although the Amazon molly has thrived for thousands of years, it remains resistant to giving away its genomic secrets -- for now.

"It may be that the Amazon molly has the best of both worlds," said Manfred Schartl, professor and chair of biochemistry at the University of Wurzburg in Wurzburg, Germany. "It seems to have some advantages that we see in species that reproduce sexually and other advantages normally seen in species that produce offspring nonsexually, such as large population sizes"

Whatever the reasons, the researchers said the Amazon molly is an exception to ideas about the evolutionary disadvantages of asexual reproduction.

###

Warren WC, et al. Clonal polymorphism and high heterozygosity in the celibate genome of the Amazon molly. Nature Ecology & Evolution, Feb. 12, 2018.

This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), grant numbers 2R24-OD011198-04A1, R24-OD011120, and R24-RR032658-01. Additional funding from the National Science Foundation, grant number NSF DBI-1564611, the German Research Foundation, the German Science Foundation, the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO), Fundacio Zoo Barcelona, Secretaria d'Universitats i Recerca del Departament d'Economia i Coneixement de la Generalitat de Catalunya, the Intramural Research Program of the NIH, the National Library of Medicine, the Wellcome Trust and the European Molecular Biology Laboratory.

Washington University School of Medicine's 2,100 employed and volunteer faculty physicians also are the medical staff of Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's hospitals. The School of Medicine is one of the leading medical research, teaching and patient-care institutions in the nation, currently ranked seventh in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Through its affiliations with Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's hospitals, the School of Medicine is linked to BJC HealthCare.TORONTO, February 12, 2018 -- Can you be fit and healthy even if you're overweight? That's the question researchers at York University's Faculty of Health set out to answer in a new study that shows physical activity may be equally and perhaps even more important than weight for people living with severe obesity.

According to the recent study, led by Jennifer Kuk, associate professor in York University's School of Kinesiology and Health Science, and collaborator Dr. Sean Wharton, MD, medical director of the Wharton Medical Clinic and adjunct professor at York University, individuals with severe obesity who are fit have a similar health profile to those who weigh significantly less than them. The goal of the study was to look at the benefits of cardiorespiratory fitness on cardiovascular health in populations with mild to severe obesity.

The results suggest individuals with even severe obesity, or a BMI greater than 40, can be fit and healthy.

"Obesity is only related with worse health in individuals who were unfit," says Kuk. "We know that once you get beyond a BMI of 40, the risk of cardiovascular conditions increases exponentially so this study shows that having a high fitness level is still beneficial and it really reinforces the importance of fitness."

Kuk says doing 150 minutes of exercise per week, as per physical activity guidelines, generally translates to less than half pound of weight loss. Nevertheless, this amount of exercise can mean dramatic improvements in health for those with severe obesity.

"You really have to disconnect the body weight from the importance of fitness," says Kuk. "You can get fit without losing weight and have health benefits."

Data was gathered from 853 Canadian patients attending Wharton Medical weight management clinics in Southern Ontario. Individuals completed a clinical exam which included fasting blood measures and a maximal treadmill stress test.

The amount of fitness necessary to achieve health benefits was far less than what most individuals would think. The research showed that the greatest health benefits come from avoiding the lowest 20 per cent of fitness levels. This means that 80 per cent of people are fit enough to get health benefits.

In this study, 41% of participants with mild obesity had high fitness levels, while 25 per cent and 11 per cent of the participants with moderate and severe obesity, respectively, had high fitness. Individuals with severe obesity were more likely to have high blood pressure, glucose, and triglycerides if they were in the lowest 20 per cent of fitness levels, but were not more likely to have these issues if they were in the 80 per cent group.

Earlier research has shown that much less physical activity is required to improve health than is needed to lose weight. However, this is some of the first research suggesting that physical activity may be more important for people living with severe obesity.

"In my practice, I see many patients who are looking for different results," says Wharton. "There are some patients that want to significantly improve their health and others that are only looking for an aesthetic goal. When it comes to health, this study reinforces the notion that people don't need to lose weight to be healthy."

###

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research funded study, Association between cardiorespiratory fitness and metabolic risk factors in a population with mild to severe obesity was recently published in BMC Obesity.

Media contact: Anjum Nayyar, York University Media Relations, 416 736 2100 ext. 44543 anayyar@yorku.ca

York University champions new ways of thinking that drive teaching and research excellence. Our students receive the education they need to create big ideas that make an impact on the world. Meaningful and sometimes unexpected careers result from cross-disciplinary programming, innovative course design and diverse experiential learning opportunities. York students and graduates push limits, achieve goals and find solutions to the world's most pressing social challenges, empowered by a strong community that opens minds. York U is an internationally recognized research university - our 11 faculties and 25 research centres have partnerships with 200+ leading universities worldwide. Located in Toronto, York is the third largest university in Canada, with a strong community of 53,000 students, 7,000 faculty and administrative staff, and more than 300,000 alumni. York U's fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education.The Greek parliament Saturday ended a probe into alleged kickbacks paid by Swiss pharma giant Novartis to senior politicians, saying it did not have the jurisdiction to investigate bribery and money laundering claims.

Lawmakers from the ruling coalition said a special parliamentary commission was not competent to examine the case and sent it back to the courts, state news agency ANA said.

Protected witnesses have said that nearly a dozen senior politicians, including former prime minister Antonis Samaras, Greek central banker Yannis Stournaras and EU migration commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos, were allegedly involved in helping Novartis build a commanding position in the Greek health market.

The Swiss giant is suspected of having bribed decision-makers and doctors between 2006 and 2015 to secure inflated prices for its products even though cheaper alternatives were available.

The scheme is estimated to have cost the Greek state some three billion euros ($3.5 billion).

The bribes were usually hidden in overpriced company invoices for medical congresses and trips, but money is suspected to have also occasionally been given directly, witnesses said.

All those named deny wrongdoing, and some have sued the witnesses for perjury and defamation.

Novartis has said it is cooperating with Greek authorities whilst conducting an internal audit of its own.

The Swiss giant has already paid multi-million dollar fines in the United States, China and South Korea to settle corruption cases.

jph/achAround 1,200 Kurds began a protest march in Lausanne on Monday against the Turkish bombing of Afrine, a Kurdish enclave in Syria. The group plans to walk in several stages to Geneva, where they plan a demonstration in front of the UN Palais des Nations.

The protesters initially gathered in the centre of Lausanne, before moving to the lakeside port of Ouchy, where the official march began.

Their starting point was the Palais de Rumine, where the Treaty of Lausanne was signed in 1928. This treaty established the borders for modern Turkey and ended the Kurdish peoples aspiration of having their own state. Most of the protesters travelled from within Switzerland, but the group consisted of nationalities from 17 different countries.

The participants are protesting against the bombing of the Kurdish enclave of Afrine in Syria, an offensive that began on January 20. Approximately 150 civilians have been killed in the area by the bombing campaign, the organising committee said.

The protesters calledon the international community to demand the respect of human rights in the region. The UN needs to stand together to prevent a massacre, the protesters said.

The next stop for the march is Morges, where they plan to arrive on Monday evening. They expect to reach Geneva on Thursday, before organising a demonstration in front of the UN on Friday.













SDA-ATS/ln





The head of Swiss Post, Susanne Ruoff, has refused to step down for errors she admits were made at the PostBus subsidiary company regarding the manipulation of accounts to claim tens of millions of francs worth of federal and cantonal subsidies.

I neither lied nor did anything wrong, Ruoff declared in an interview on Sunday in the SonntagsBlick newspaper.

+ PostBus claimed millions in illegal subsidies

The Post chief executive officer has promised to fully investigate a report by the Federal Office of Transport that PostBus claimed almost CHF80 million ($85 million) in excessive federal and cantonal subsidies over the past decade by manipulating accounts. The PostBus director and the chief finance officer were dismissed over the affair and the subsidiary must refund the money.

Ruoff, who has been in charge at the national postal service since 2012,said she only discovered last November that cost transfers carried out by thebus company financed by public funds were illegal. She claimed the transport office director had informed her about the fictive bills and accounting.

I reacted immediately as I wanted complete clarification, she told the newspaper. Ruoff said she set up a working group with external specialists who confirmed that the practice was illegal.

She rejects claims that she had been aware of the reported accounting methods since 2013. But she admits that profits earned by the PostBus service should have received greater scrutiny and been handled quicker. The CEO added that no internal or external auditor had highlighted any irregularities.

A regular audit by the Transport Office revealed that between the years 2007 and 2015, the company known for its bright yellow buses that carry passengers throughout the Alps deliberately kept its profits low to receive more support money from the government.

The exact motives behind the systematic accounting tricks remain unclear. Several politicians have expressed outrage and demanded a thorough investigation.The Federal Office of Transport announced that it would file a formal complaint over the matter with the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland.













ATS-SDA/sb





France on Monday returned three paintings by the Flemish master Joachim Patinir to the descendants of a Jewish family who were forced to sell them as they fled the Nazis.

The Bromberg family left Germany for Paris in late 1938 and the following year were forced to sell the 16th-century Triptych of the Crucifixion depicting Christ on the cross, along with several other paintings so they could get to the United States via Switzerland.

The paintings were formally handed over to Henrietta Schubert and Chris Bromberg, descendants of Herta and Henry Bromberg, at the Louvre Museum by French Culture Minister Francoise Nyssen.

It is the second time in two years that the French state has returned despoiled art to the family.

In 2016 it handed over another 16th-century painting, Portrait of a Man, by one of the followers of Antwerp artist Joos van Cleve.

The Patinir paintings had languished for nearly seven decades unclaimed in the French state collections after they were recovered in Munich after World War II.

The triptych had been bought at a knock-down price after the German occupation of Paris and was destined for Hitlers Fuhrermuseum in his home town of Linz in Austria, where he wanted to build the ideal museum.

Patinir is regarded as the father of landscape painting, and developed the panoramic style that became a hallmark of the northern Renaissance.

More than 30 looted paintings have been put on display at the Louvre since December to raise public awareness of the issue.

France has stepped up its efforts to return art looted during World War II to its rightful owners, using geneological experts to trace families.

It is no longer acceptable to wait for descendants to turn up and ask for the restitution of their familys art for them to be given their due, said former culture minister Audrey Azoulay, who now heads UNESCO.

It is thought that up to 100,000 works of art, and millions of books, were stolen from French Jews or Jews who had fled to France before the German occupation.

The Allies found around 60,000 of the missing artworks after the war, and France has been returning works to families since the 1960s  although only 30 were given back up to 1994.

Since then there has been a more concerted effort with a commission of experts, historians and archivists dedicated to resolving the problem since 2013.@doug_hanks

(Photo caption: Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez, left, communications director Michael Hernandez, center, and Gimenez chief of staff Alex Ferro, right, during a 2016 meeting with the Miami Herald Editorial Board.)

Michael Hernandez, communications director to Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez and one of the most recognizable faces in county government, is leaving for a public affairs firm.

The 35-year-old former political consultant and Democratic Party activist joined the Republican mayor's administration in 2014 at a time when Gimenez was considering an exit from the GOP. But Gimenez stayed, and so did Hernandez -- representing Gimenez through his 2016 reelection bid, the county's Zika crisis and Gimenez's decision in early 2017 to unilaterally end Miami-Dade's status as a "sanctuary" community and change the county's policy on immigration detainers to match the wishes of newly elected President Donald Trump.

Hernandez called the public outcry from the left over Gimenez's move, praised by Trump himself and later endorsed by the county commission, "probably the most challenging period for me in this role."

Hernandez, a married father of two who earned $174,000 last year under the title of communications director and senior adviser to the mayor, is leaving for a post at the South Florida office of the Mercury public affairs firm. Ashley Walker, Barack Obama's 2012 Florida campaign director, heads up the firm's Fort Lauderdale office and former Democratic congressman Joe Garcia was hired last year to represent the firm in Miami.

"I had committed to a two-year stay. I'm on year four. The time is right," Hernandez said Monday.

His planned departure at the end of February creates a void for the mayor as he heads into his final two years in office before a term limit rules require a 2020 exit. There was no word Monday from Gimenez's camp on a potential replacement.Interested in Dutch mobile banking? Access your bank from the comfort of your phone with our expert guide to mobile banking in the Netherlands.

The Netherlands has long been at the forefront of the technological revolution when it comes to your personal finances. Mobile banking is just one of these advances, with over half of all Dutch residents having an account. Whether youre looking to pay your bills or make payments with ease, find out more about mobile banking in the Netherlands with our guide.

bunq Looking for a Dutch mobile bank? With bunq, you can open a full Netherlands bank account in just five minutes using nothing more than your mobile phone. You get real-time access to your account, instant payments and dedicated customer support available in English, Dutch, German, Italian and Spanish. Get the app today

Mobile banking in the Netherlands

Banking has changed considerably since the advent of the internet and smartphone devices, and the Dutch have embraced the new options these changes have brought more than most. According to recent EU figures, 89% of the Dutch population use online banking, the third-highest in the EU/EEA behind only Iceland and Norway. Around 66% of the population use mobile banking in the Netherlands, including 60% of 50-64 year olds.

Most Dutch banks now offer internet and mobile banking services. These include high-street banks such as ABN-AMRO, ING Bank, and SNS as well as newer online banks. Online-only providers offering mobile banking in the Netherlands include:

Advertisement

Features of mobile banking

Mobile banking uses apps on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Users can then perform banking functions from their device. Each bank offering mobile banking in the Netherlands has its own app. Customers can use them for things such as:

Making bill payments and paying for goods in shops.

Transferring money from one account to another or paying money to friends.

Monthly budgeting using online tools.

Contacting banking staff for advice or problem-solving via social media accounts.

Accessing money from mobile accounts across the globe.

Having round-the-clock 24/7 access to account services.

Mobile banking provides many benefits for expats in the Netherlands including making cross-border payments and moving money between accounts that use the euro, immediacy of service, and lower banking costs. With bunq, you can open an account in minutes and make multi-currency payments and overseas card transactions at much cheaper rates.

There are still some limitations with mobile banking in the Netherlands as well as elsewhere. Loan services are limited, as is the ability to transfer money to foreign currency accounts. Internet availability can also be an issue; mobile banking relies on a data connection, although Wi-Fi and internet coverage in the Netherlands is generally quite good.

Advertisement

Making mobile payments in the Netherlands

Mobile payments are financial transactions that are conducted through a mobile phone or other mobile device. These are an alternative to cash, credit cards, and other forms of payment. Mobile payments in the Netherlands are done using mobile apps or mobile wallets linked to bank accounts and installed on smartphones. Technology such as QR codes and near-field communication (NFC) enables people to make contactless payments in stores, pay for bills, or make immediate payments to friends.

Mobile payment apps in the Netherlands are available for both Apple and Android phones. The most popular is the iDEAL app. The Dutch online payments specialist has a 57% share of the e-commerce market in the Netherlands, with over half of its payments made through mobile banking. Other popular apps providers of mobile payments in the Netherlands include OK (which was developed by the team behind iDEAL), Payconiq, and PayPal. Individual Dutch banks generally have their own apps, as well.

Security for mobile banking

There have been consumer fears across Europe concerning mobile banking and mobile payments. However, doing banking through mobile devices is actually a safer way to bank and manage finances. Payment systems frequently use biometric data, such as fingerprint identification or voice activation; these are more secure than a PIN or signature. Additionally, payment systems and mobile banking in the Netherlands are heavily encrypted, so there is no compromise to security levels.

You can protect your finances against fraud and security breaches by taking measures such as:

keeping everything password protected where necessary and using a high-strength password;

never logging into your account using a public network or shared Wi-Fi;

never keeping yourself logged into your account when its not in use.

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Opening a bank account in the Netherlands

To open up a bank account in the Netherlands, you must provide valid ID, your residence permit, BSN (burgerservicenummer), and proof of address. Evidence of income is also necessary for certain accounts.

If youre moving to the Netherlands and want to open an account before moving, you can open a mobile account with an online-only bank such as bunq, N26, or Openbank. The process takes just minutes and youll be able to access your account from anywhere.

See our guide to opening a Dutch bank account for further details of the banking process in the Netherlands.Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas visits Russia on Monday in a bid to secure Russian President Vladimir Putin's support following Washington's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The Palestinian leader was set to visit Moscow two weeks after a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Abbas has refused any contact with US President Donald Trumps administration since Washingtons recognition of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital at the end of last year. Abbas is due to speak at the United Nations Security Council on February 20.

Palestinians see the US decision, which broke with years of international diplomacy, as a denial of their claim to East Jerusalem as the capital of an eventual Palestinian state.

Israel took control of East Jerusalem in the 1967 Six-Day War, annexed it and later declared it the indivisible capital of Israel.

The US Ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley, has accused Abbas of lacking the courage needed to forge a peace deal with Israel.

Abbas in turn has rejected any mediation by Washington in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and has promised his people to work towards full recognition of a Palestinian state by the United Nations.

Alexander Shumilin, a Middle East scholar at the Institute for US and Canadian Studies, called Abbass visit an attempt to cosy up to Russia, a consistent ally, and to stop Netanyahu leading Moscow astray during an improvement in Russia-Israeli ties.

Netanyahu visited Russia on January 29 and along with Putin attended a memorial ceremony at the Jewish museum in Moscow for the victims of Nazi camps. He took the opportunity to accuse Iran of wanting to destroy the Jewish state.

In turn, the Russian president likened antisemitism to Russophobia and said Russia and Israel were cooperating closely, particularly against attempts to falsify history.

 Chances close to zero 

For Shumilin, Mondays visit is a necessary political gesture for Abbas but can do little in the practical sense.

It is also definitely not worth expecting a breakthrough from this visit, he added.

In 2016 Russia offered to host one-on-one talks without preconditions between Abbas and Netanyahu but these never materialised.

In January, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov estimated that chances of resuming direct talks between the two sides in the current situation were close to zero.

Lavrov also said we understand the emotions Palestinians feel towards Trump.

We keep hearing in recent months that the US is about to publish some major deal that will satisfy everyone, he said. But he added that Russia has not seen or heard of such a document or even any statement.

With relations between Washington and Moscow at a record low for the post-Cold War era, Abbas may be expecting that Russia-US relations will get even worse and then Russia could do something to spite the US, Shumilin said.

On November 29, 2012, the United Nations designated Palestine as a non-member observer state after a vote by the General Assembly.

That enabled the Palestinians to join international organisations and the International Criminal Court, though they did not become a full UN member state.

Palestinian statehood is recognised by more than 130 countries.London City Airport was closed on Monday as military experts worked to remove a World War II bomb found in the neighbouring dock.

The unexploded ordnance was discovered in King George V Dock, during planned works near the runway of Londons most central airport.

The bomb was discovered at around 5:00am (0500 GMT) on Sunday and a 214-metre exclusion zone was imposed to ensure that the ordnance can be safely dealt with whilst limiting any risk to the public, police said.

Homes within the exclusion zone were evacuated overnight and the local authority was providing residents with temporary accommodation and support.

Police remained at the scene on Monday.

The operation to remove the ordnance is ongoing in partnership with our colleagues in the Royal Navy, Londons Metropolitan Police said in a statement.

City Airport operates short-haul flights and is located in east London, close to the Canary Wharf business district.

It is the capitals fifth-biggest airport.

The airport remains closed this morning, said its chief executive Robert Sinclair.

All flights in and out of London City on Monday are cancelled.

I urge any passengers due to fly today not to come to the airport and to contact their airline for further information.

London was heavily bombed during the Blitz, the Nazi German air attacks of September 1940 to May 1941.

London City Airport opened in 1987 in the disused docklands. It handled 4.5 million passengers in 2017 and is mainly used by business travellers.Monday, February 12, 2018

Keeping the cremated remains of loved ones around the house? This NPR story on Weekend Edition Sunday will make you consider finding a permanent final resting place for those remains.

Forensic Search Dogs Sniff Out Human Ashes in Wildfire Wreckage takes listeners to Santa Rosa, California, where wildfires in October reduced hundreds of homes to ashes. How do you find human ashes within home ashes? These amazing dogs are finding them and helping keep human remains out of the dump.

Identifying the presence of cremated remains in the rubble of a home is a new idea. Its not yet part of the cleanup protocol for FEMA or the Army Corps of Engineers, and it needs to be.

This story provides a good reason to give cremated remains a permanent home in a cemetery.

Doctors and Bucket Lists

Talk to Your Doctor About Your Bucket List, in Sundays New York Times, provides a great framework to evaluate treatments in light of what you want to do before you die. Its by

Talks This Week

Hope to see you at one of these presentations by The Doyenne of Death in Albuquerque this week!

Wednesday, February 14, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.  Do This for the People You Love, a talk on ways to downsize by sharing your beloved possessions and memories with your loved ones. The 20/20 Club is hosting the event at Sandia Presbyterian Church, 10704 Paseo Del Norte NE. The 20/20 Club provides information and support for macular degeneration and other vision problems. For more information, call 505-275-9952.

Saturday, February 17, 2:00 p.m.  Green Burial Options in New Mexico is the title of Gail Rubins presentation at the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria Road NW, Albuquerque, NM. In a high desert climate, green burial is actually brown burial. Come learn about your options for returning to the earth as naturally as possible in the Land of Enchantment. The event is free, parking costs $3 if you use the parks parking lot. More info at this Facebook Page.

Share this:From: American Evaluation Association (AEA) For Immediate Release: Dateline: Washington , DC Monday, February 12, 2018

Rebecca Woodland and I teach Introduction Social Network Analysis as an AEA pre-conference workshop and at UMass Amherst. Those who enroll in these courses come from all walks of the evaluation field and I feel quite fortunate to have the opportunity to learn alongside so many talented professionals.

What Ive learned.

Whether people seek to conduct evaluation in health and medicine, education, environmental non-profits, or in any number of other settings and sectors, there are some common misconceptions that seem to exist. I too held many of these misconceptions when I first ventured into SNA for program evaluation.

Myth #1  SNA is about Facebook, Twitter, etc. and other social networking sites.

A lot of people think that the N in SNA refers to networking. The reality is that there is no ing in SNA. Yes, online social networking can be analyzed using SNA, but SNA is not about the study of social networking per se. In the context of evaluation, SNA is most often about examining relationships (ties) between actors (people/organizations) and how a programs network may enable or inhibit actor access to important resources.

Myth #2  SNA is only about ties between people.

Perhaps because SNA has the word social in its title  it is widely assumed that SNA is exclusively about people. Evaluators are rightly concerned about program effects for individuals, but SNA is also a sophisticated way to examine ties between program resources, inputs, outputs, and outcomes. With SNA, we might examine ties between nonprofits and grant-making organizations, program activities and geographic regions, or policies and governmental groups, just to name a few. An almost unlimited number of relationships between human AND/OR non-human actors can be examined through SNA.

Myth #3 SNA is all about creating those cool pictures.

It is true that the production of colorful and dynamic sociograms is one of the most powerful aspects of SNA! However, effective SNA does not have to entail the creation of any pictures. SNA is predicated on matrix algebra  sociograms visually depict results of mathematical computations. Sometimes it is more important, accurate, and useful to tell the story of program cohesion and actor centrality using quantitative network measures and descriptive and inferential statistics.

Rad Resources:

If you find SNA intriguing  check out the following resources. Each text addresses SNA misconceptions and may help you to further incorporate this powerful approach into your evaluation practice.

SNA: Methods and Applications by Wasserman & Faust

SNA: History, Theory and Methodology by Prell

Analyzing Social Networks by Borgatti, Everett, & Johnson

Social Network Analysis by Scott

SNA: Methods and Examples by Yang, Keller & Zhang

The SAGE Handbook of SNA The American Evaluation Association is celebrating Social Network Analysis TIG Week with our colleagues in the Social Network Analysis Topical Interest Group. The contributions all this week to aea365 come from our SNA TIG members. Do you have questions, concerns, kudos, or content to extend this aea365 contribution? Please add them in the comments section for this post on the

About AEA The American Evaluation Association is an international professional association and the largest in its field. Evaluation involves assessing the strengths and weaknesses of programs, policies, personnel, products and organizations to improve their effectiveness. AEAs mission is to improve evaluation practices and methods worldwide, to increase evaluation use, promote evaluation as a profession and support the contribution of evaluation to the generation of theory and knowledge about effective human action. For more information about AEA, visit www.eval.org. Hello, my name isand I teach Introduction Social Network Analysis as an AEA pre-conference workshop and at UMass Amherst. Those who enroll in these courses come from all walks of the evaluation field and I feel quite fortunate to have the opportunity to learn alongside so many talented professionals.Whether people seek to conduct evaluation in health and medicine, education, environmental non-profits, or in any number of other settings and sectors, there are some common misconceptions that seem to exist. I too held many of these misconceptions when I first ventured into SNA for program evaluation.A lot of people think that the N in SNA refers to networking. The reality is that there is no ing in SNA. Yes, online social networking can be analyzed using SNA, but SNA is not about the study of social networking per se. In the context of evaluation, SNA is most often about examining relationships (ties) between actors (people/organizations) and how a programs network may enable or inhibit actor access to important resources.Perhaps because SNA has the word social in its title  it is widely assumed that SNA is exclusively about people. Evaluators are rightly concerned about program effects for individuals, but SNA is also a sophisticated way to examine ties between program resources, inputs, outputs, and outcomes. With SNA, we might examine ties between nonprofits and grant-making organizations, program activities and geographic regions, or policies and governmental groups, just to name a few. An almost unlimited number of relationships between human AND/OR non-human actors can be examined through SNA.It is true that the production of colorful and dynamic sociograms is one of the most powerful aspects of SNA! However, effective SNA does not have to entail the creation of any pictures. SNA is predicated on matrix algebra  sociograms visually depict results of mathematical computations. Sometimes it is more important, accurate, and useful to tell the story of program cohesion and actor centrality using quantitative network measures and descriptive and inferential statistics.If you find SNA intriguing  check out the following resources. Each text addresses SNA misconceptions and may help you to further incorporate this powerful approach into your evaluation practice.The American Evaluation Association is celebratingwith our colleagues in the. The contributions all this week to aea365 come from ourmembers. Do you have questions, concerns, kudos, or content to extend this aea365 contribution? Please add them in the comments section for this post on the aea365 webpage so that we may enrich our community of practice. Would you like to submit an aea365 Tip? Please send a note of interest to aea365@eval.org . aea365 is sponsored by the American Evaluation Association and provides a Tip-a-Day by and for evaluators.

Monday, February 12, 2018

How donors with the best intentions get in everyones way.

Everyone who gives away money or makes a social investment wants to feel like they are doing good. After all, thats the basis of philanthropy. We want to help others, make lasting positive change and leave the world and its inhabitants better off because of our contributions.

But too often, philanthropists delude themselves about their own effectiveness because they dont see the myriad ways that they are adding needless complexity and complication to their work. They are blind to their own behaviors, policies and practices that can cause more harm than good. And they frequently get in their own way without realizing it.

I call this delusional altruism.

Heres an example: You want to provide a $5,000 gift of general operating funds to a small, cash-strapped nonprofit so that it can ease some of the pressures it faces in simply keeping the lights on and the doors open. In helping them overcome this hurdle, you can help them concentrate more on providing their valuable service to your community. Thats a great example of altruism: trusting those in the field with your funds and believing that they will apply those funds in ways that will be most helpful. But then you require them to complete a 15-page grant proposal with several long narratives and a detailed budget. You also expect them to host you at a site visit.

Thats when your altruism becomes delusional.

By insisting on a complex grantmaking process, youve forced the would-be grantee to spend more than $5,000 worth of their time to comply. Indeed, Ive worked with several funders who have been genuinely befuddled that grantees arent jumping at the financial gifts theyve put on the table. Thats because the table is simply too high.

The better, non-delusional approach above would be to have the grantee submit a two-page letter describing what they do and how unrestricted operating funds might be used, plus just enough financial information to let you know that your $5,000 investment is an acceptable percentage of the organizations overall budget.

Insidious, But Curable

Delusional altruism can take many forms and often grows undetected. The needless complexity in the example above is but one manifestation. Delusional altruism can show up as underinvestment in your own capacity or in the capacity of your grantees. It can rear its head in the form of bureaucracy and sloth. It happens when funders pay too little attention to their own goals or to the voices of those they serve. It can establish strong roots within funders who work in isolation. And it thrives when funders forget to evaluate and learn from their own experiences.

The good news is that once delusional altruism is discovered, its usually fairly easy for funders to understand and move toward non-delusional solutions. For instance, a funder could look at internal grantmaking practices and intentionally align them with the size of grants made and the sophistication of organizations funded. The funder could turn to others  grantees, experts, community leaders, those served by grantees  to help ferret out delusional practices. And the funder must recognize that the need to remain vigilant is ongoing, lest one unintentionally fall into a new or recurring delusional altruism trap.

As with other threats to effectiveness, include delusional altruism in your ongoing thought and conversations about your work  thats the best way to keep it at bay. Ask others to help you identify and address conditions that cause you to get in your own way and you will strengthen your own effectiveness as a grantmaker and deliver fully on the promise your philanthropy brings to the world.

If you would like to transform your giving with the help of a simple tool, take the Delusional Altruism Diagnostic Quiz. Find out where you may be coming up short and where youre already doing things right. Even better, the findings from the diagnostic also can serve as a springboard for discussions about practices that can and should change to increase your philanthropic impact.

Additional Reading:

Is Your Giving Hampered By A Poverty Mentality?

Transact Or Transform: What Kind Of Giver Are You?

Leave The Office And Break Out Of Your Bubble

This article was originally written for and published by Forbes.com.

 2017 Kris Putnam-Walkerly. All rights reserved. Permission granted to excerpt or reprint with attribution.

_____________________________________________________________________

Kris Putnam-Walkerly, MSW, has helped to transform the impact of top global philanthropies for almost 20 years. A member of the Million Dollar Consultant Hall of Fame and named one of Americas Top 25 Philanthropy Speakers. Author of the award-winning book Confident Giving: Sage Advice for Funders, which was named one of The 10 Best Corporate Social Responsibility Books. For more ways to improve your giving, visit Putnam Consulting Group.

Kris has a refreshingly clear-eyed point of view on philanthropy. She can cut through the noise and keep things focused, which has made her both a valuable advisor and a good speaker for our members.

Tamir Novotny, Executive Director, Emerging Practitioners in Philanthropy

_____________________________________________________________________

Could You Benefit From a Trusted Advisor?

Kris Putnam-Walkerly serves as a trusted advisor to foundation leaders and high-wealth donors across the globe. As an advisor, Kris transfers learning to leaders and their teams so they build their own internal capacity to be successful in their work. Whether you are the CEO of a larger foundation, the sole staff member charged with decision-making, or a high-net worth donor, the questions Kris can address cover a broad spectrum of professional and personal issues.

Kriss clients report immediate and dramatic improvement in both personal performance and philanthropic impact. As an advising client, youll have unlimited access to Kris during regular business hours by phone, Skype, email and, when desired, face to face. With over 18 years of experience working with top global philanthropies, Kris understands how to build an impactful organization that integrates your philanthropic passions and the challenges that must be overcome to get there.

Contact Kris today to begin a trusted advisor relationship.

Learn more about this and other services offered.

Dont Miss My Live Stream Video Series

My new live streaming video series for 2018 will help you explore new ideas, enlighten your perspective on philanthropy, and provide you with concrete tools and strategies to get more impact from every charitable dollar. All you need is a laptop, tablet or smartphone, and youll receive some of my most popular and provocative advice, straight from me to you. Live streaming also provides you with the opportunity to interact with me and ask questions in real time.

Click HERE for my details and to SIGN UP.Almost a year after FourWinds Logistics went belly up, Harlingen investor Denise Cantu was feeling helpless with nowhere to turn as she tried to get back most of the $900,000 she invested with the oil field company.

Cantu, 38, texted Carlos Uresti  a man she has described as her counselor, financial adviser, friend and, eventually, lover  to say no one was helping her, not even the lawyers he referred her to.

Hes now on trial for allegedly defrauding her and other investors.

Before their relationship soured, the Democratic state senator recommended in 2014 that Cantu put her money into FourWinds. She was looking to invest some of the proceeds of a $2.5 million legal settlement he helped obtain for her over the deaths of two of her children in a 2010 vehicle wreck, and Uresti said it was guaranteed and good as gold. She took Urestis advice and ended up losing about $800,000.

This isnt lottery $$$, Cantu raged at Uresti in a June 22, 2016, text message shown to jurors Monday in San Antonio federal court. Yall took BLOOD MONEY, MY KIDS BLOOD MONEY, so whoever is in on this scheme will be judge by the good man above 

What scheme? Uresti replied.

The exchange came a couple of months after FBI agents met with Cantu for the second time regarding an investigation into FourWinds demise. The company  which bought and sold sand used in fracking for oil production  imploded and entered bankruptcy in August 2015 as allegations swirled that investors were defrauded.

Over three days on the witness stand, Cantu told jurors how her relationship with Uresti unfolded, how the two would have sex at his office, and how Uresti instructed her not to cooperate with agents when they started asking her questions. Saying she was trying to protect the man she thought was her friend, she admitted that she never revealed his request on any of the three occasions she met with the FBI.

Uresti, 54, was indicted last year by a federal grand jury on 11 charges  including securities fraud and money laundering  in connection with his roles at FourWinds. He served as its legal counsel and a 1 percent owner, and he helped recruit investors  including Cantu. The trial, which started Jan. 22, enters its fourth week Monday.

Two others were indicted with Uresti  FourWinds CEO Stan Bates, 46, and consultant Gary Cain, 61. Last month, Bates pleaded guilty to eight felony charges rather than sit at the same defense table with Uresti and Cain. Bates was the fourth company official to enter a guilty plea.

Uresti and Cain have denied the charges.

Cantu, the governments star witness against Uresti, wrapped up three days of testimony Monday.

During questioning by Urestis lead lawyer, Michael McCrum, Cantu acknowledged she was upset when she sent the text message to Uresti  both with him and because no one was giving her any answers about where her money had gone. The terms of her joint venture agreement called for her money to be used to buy sand, but an Internal Revenue Service investigator previously told the jury the money didnt purchase a single grain.

Uresti offered to help the exasperated Cantu, but she was skeptical, other texts from that same day in June 2016 show.

How can u help me??? Cantu wondered. I thought it was a conflict of interest? ?

Theres no conflict of interest in trying to help you, Uresti replied.

How are u gonna represent me against Stan? she then asked.

Uresti previously referred Cantu to friend and fellow lawyer Raymundo Valdez, who specializes in immigration law and civil litigation in McAllen. Valdez filed a lawsuit on Cantus behalf against FourWinds and Bates for fraud in May 2015. Bates answered the suit by identifying Uresti as a responsible third party.

Cantu later retained attorney Oscar R. Alvarez, also of McAllen, to represent her in the suit. However, FourWinds bankruptcy, and an involuntary bankruptcy filed against Bates, essentially put a halt to Cantu getting any money from the lawsuit.

In January 2017, Cantu sued Uresti for fraud, saying he and others tricked her into believing she was investing with FourWinds to buy and sell sand. Instead, she said, company officials distributed most of her money among themselves. Uresti has denied her allegations. The case is pending.

Alvarez was in court to hear his clients testimony. Cantu remained composed throughout her three days of testimony, save briefly for when she teared up talking about the 2010 vehicle rollover accident that killed two of her children  Annissa Marie Salazar, 13, and Johnathan Dominic Cortez, 4  and two friends.

I didnt hear any gotcha questions, which is what I thought they (lawyers for Uresti and Cain) were going to try to do with her, Alvarez said.

McCrum, in questioning Cantu, dwelled on X-rated texts that Cantu and Bates swapped within a few weeks of meeting and around the time she invested with FourWinds.

FBI reports provided by Urestis defense team show she denied being sexually involved with either Bates or Uresti when first interviewed by agents in February 2016, but later said she had sexual relations with each of them. Uresti has denied they had sex. McCrum has used Cantus flip-flop to attack her credibility.

Asked about the racy texts Cantu swapped with Bates, Alvarez said, Theyre trying to impeach her; theyre trying to make her look bad. I dont think it destroys her credibility because it doesnt change the underlying facts, which is, they took her money and they misspent it.

Urestis lawyers contend he did not not have knowledge of the inner workings of FourWinds and was unaware that investors money was being misused.

Prosecutors rested their case Wednesday, shifting the trial to Urestis defense team, which hasnt said whether the lawmaker will testify in his defense.

Senior U.S. District Judge David Ezra denied requests to acquit Uresti and Cain last week, saying there was telling evidence against Uresti.

With the prosecutions 23rd and final witness on the stand Tuesday, the government played for jurors a recording of interviews Uresti gave to the San Antonio Express-News just days before it published an August 2016 report on FourWinds demise and the lawmakers involvement in the company.

Urestis lawyers argued that an Express-News reporter had tricked him by not advising him that he was being recorded, according to Ezra in a Jan. 17 pretrial hearing. The transcript, however, indicated Uresti was advised that he was being recorded and acknowledged so during the first interview.

Ezra said he would wait on issuing a ruling on whether to allow the recording to be played for jurors, but the issue was never raised in court before it was played.

The FBI had recorded the interviews off the newspapers website, FBI Special Agent Monroe Giese said.

Uresti told the Express-News at the time that he was limited in what he could say.

As you probably know, its under investigation by the FBI, Uresti started out by saying. Ive been contacted to be a witness in this case. So Im going to be careful about how I answer your questions so as not to jeopardize that investigation.

Uresti didnt cooperate with the FBIs investigation, but McCrum got Giese to confirm that Uresti gave eight hours of depositions to the Securities and Exchange Commission. The SECs Fort Worth office has been conducting a civil investigation, and an enforcement official with the agency was in court to hear the first part of Cantus testimony.

Uresti at first denied he was legal counsel for either side when Cantu invested with FourWinds.

I was not the attorney for Denise Cantu nor FourWinds at that time when they entered into the agreement in June 2014, Uresti told the newspaper.

In a follow-up interview a couple of days later that also was played for jurors, Uresti changed his story to say he became FourWinds lawyer around May 2014.

Still, Uresti denied he had a conflict because he represented Cantu in the wrongful-death settlement. Asked if he ever requested Cantu sign a conflict waiver after becoming FourWinds lawyer, he would not answer the question, in part, he said, because the settlement was so long ago.

Even though Uresti said he no longer represented Cantu, he took interest in her joint-venture agreement, called FWL-DC, with FourWinds in March 2015 when she first demanded her money back. At the time, FourWinds was beginning to unravel with the plunge in oil prices and withering demand for sand.

Federal prosecutors last week showed jurors an exchange of texts between Uresti and Bates that starts with with Bates asking about a $40,000 loan the company had made to the lawmaker. Uresti quickly changed the topic.

I need a complete and truthful itemization on Denise Cantu by Friday for the $900,000 she trusted with you, Uresti wrote on March 12, 2015. Be sure to include the sand that she has purchased and where all the money is currently located. Be sure to send to me via email.

Bates responded, Shop being evasive. FWL-DC doesnt have shit to do with a Personal Loan We Made to You. He then added, She is getting paid this week.

I suggest you send it to me by Friday, Uresti wrote back.

Dont start a Fight your not prepared to Fight, Bates snapped. Once again Your $40,000 debt doesnt have shit to do with any of FWL-DCs business Marine. Uresti and Bates are both ex-Marines.

Evidence presented during the trial showed the $40,000 loan went into the Uresti law firms trust account. Uresti told the Express-News in 2016 that the loan was kind of like an advance on future commissions (and) future legal work. Trust accounts generally are set up for holding client funds that are meant to be kept separate from a lawyers own money.

Tab Turner, an Arkansas lawyer who also represents Uresti, said in a Friday email that they plan to call H. Anthony Hervol, a lawyer who represented Uresti in FourWinds bankruptcy regarding the $40,000 loan, to the witness stand Monday.

FourWinds bankruptcy trustee sued Uresti in April 2016 to return the $40,000. The litigation was settled, with Uresti paying back $30,000 in August 2016. He didnt pay back all the $40,000 because, he said, FourWinds had owed his law firm money.

Urestis lawyers also will present in court a stipulation regarding his communications with Chief U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia in 2015 to alert the authorities to what (Uresti) perceived as possible fraud at FourWinds, Turner said. Garcia was on a list of more than 200 potential witnesses for Uresti, according to a December court filing.

The trial continues to attract interest from gawkers, media and lawyers not involved in the case. Six students from a Brandeis High School accounting class attended the proceedings Tuesday.

Dennis Elam, a Texas A&M University-San Antonio accounting professor, said he is using the case in his accounting ethics graduate class.

The case is one for the record books, he said. This is the case that keeps on giving to an ethics professor.

Elams research interest is in how social mood affects accounting and financial events. This case arises from the euphoria that erupted when oil prices surged above $100 a barrel.

People jump in at the end of a  mania, he said. In the short space of a year (at FourWinds), everybody was positive to one another and then when things went south; everybodys mood turned negative.

pdanner@express-news.net | gcontreras@express-news.netAll mothers see a little superhero in their daughters. Luz Andrea Diaz brought hers to life with Chicana feminism and word balloons.

And so were born the Super Chikis, costumed super girls who pack some serious multicultural punch. Their first comic book, Super Chikis Adventures, is available for $3.99 at superchikis.com.

Diaz says her mission with Super Chikis is to empower girls to discover their talents and to craft superhero stories for Latina girls. To embody that good fight, she turned to her daughters, 9-year-old Johana Velazquez and 7-year-old Angela Velazquez.

Thats something that Ive always talked to them about, said Diaz, an IT consultant and project manager in San Antonio who launched Super Chikis as a startup in December. Everybody has a different talent and something good that they can give to the world, regardless of where they are from or their skin color or their nationality.

Angela is the inspiration for the Super Chikis character Samantha, whose sirenlike songs make people do whatever she sings. Meanwhile, Johana is the inspiration for the character Ana, an amazing artist whose drawings come to life. Together in their first comic adventure, Samantha and Ana must help a baby dragon reunite with its very big mom.

Samantha and Ana lead the charge for more Diaz family-inspired Super Chikis to come.

Esperanza, a Cuban girl who can talk to computers, is based on one of Diazs sisters, whos a computer programmer, while Indira, an Indian girl with healing powers, is based on Diazs doctor cousin.

Veronica, a Brazilian who can literally capture the bad guys with her camera, is based on another Diaz sister who is an economist. And the super-curious Daniela, who can learn any subject just by touching a book, is an Argentinian based on another Diaz sister who is an elementary school teacher and psychologist.

Diaz first drew up the idea for Super Chikis on a whiteboard with Johana and Angela back in September 2016. What started as a simple family game about their favorite super power turned into a creative way to strengthen the girls against what Diaz saw as a rising tide of anti-Latino rhetoric, such as then-presidential candidate Donald Trumps comment about deporting bad hombres from the United States.

My daughters were really affected by it, said Diaz, who moved to San Antonio from Monterrey, Mexico, in 2014.

Diaz also wants to empower parents, likewise with some super-inspiration from her own family.

Thats why she also has penned Superhero in a Box ($4.99 at superchikis.com), a parent guide and Super Chikis companion book that helps moms and dads help their kids reach their full potential. The five-step guide incorporates team-guiding concepts Diaz has learned on project management, as well as advice from her own mother, a retired elementary school teacher, and Diazs teacher/psychologist sister.

Diaz is working on getting the Super Chikis into libraries, bookstores and, of course, on Amazon. She hopes to have the second issue, featuring the Super Chikis take on bullying, out in three months.

In the meantime, kids and their families have at least one Super Chikis adventure to help them bring out their own inner superhero.

Pretty much the idea was trying to educate kids on those concepts of diversity and tolerance and inclusion, Diaz said. Even if I dont make much money out of this, this is still my way to fight (discrimination).

rguzman@express-news.net | Twitter: @reneguzFor picture posts from 2010 and earlier, see the Earlier Picture Posts PageA local developer is pursuing plans to build a $36 million student housing complex on the campus of St. Philips College, which would make the East Side institution one of the few community colleges to feature residential accommodations.

Project manager Ken Lowe, developer Roberta Lowe and her company, Fortress Funding Investments, are seeking to build the development through what city officials described as the first public-private partnership dedicated to student housing, according to a memo presented to the City Council. Roberta Lowe is Ken Lowes sister.

Officials at Alamo Colleges District, which oversees St. Philips and four other community colleges, declined to discuss the proposed development, noting that the districts board is still in an exploratory stage with the project.

No final decision has been made on our part, said Kristi Wyatt, the districts associate vice chancellor of communications and engagement.

Ken Lowe also declined to comment.

But documents sent to the council last month by the citys Neighborhood and Housing Services Department shed some light on the proposed plans.

Developers are contemplating building the student housing at 1800 Martin Luther King Drive, a site that is now a parking lot on the southwestern part of the St. Philips campus. Tentative plans call for a four-story building containing one-bedroom, two-bedroom and four-bedroom living units, said Nancy Sheppard, a tax increment financing economic development manager for the city department.

The proposed design features 184 fully furnished living units with space for 375 beds, according to a memo to the council. The average unit spans 929 square feet.

Construction could begin in September, with completion targeted for the end of 2020, city documents show.

The facility would be open to students enrolled at any Alamo Colleges institution. The district might also allow its employees the opportunity to live there as well, Sheppard said.

At St. Philips ... they feel like the campus is growing in population, but theres not a lot of opportunities for people to live or rent in the area, Sheppard said.

Details on how the public-private partnership would work have not yet been publicly disclosed.

The council unanimously voted Jan. 18 to award up to $800,000 in tax increment reinvestment zone funds to reimburse Fortress Funding Investments for costs incurred for public infrastructure and improvements associated with the development, such as sidewalks, lighting and other fixtures used by the public.

Community colleges normally dont have residence halls; few such campuses have student housing on site, the council memo noted.

That has been changing in recent years as more community colleges are enticing students to live on or near campus, the memo stated.

Another student housing development, Tobin Lofts, was built next to the campus of San Antonio College five years ago by developer NRP Group. Tobin Lofts began welcoming students as tenants in 2013. That development has drawn students from other nearby schools, such as St. Philips, the memo stated.

City Councilman William Cruz Shaw said he supports the proposed St. Philips housing development, which would be in his district. He suggested that the new accommodations could spur more development in the area around the school.

I think the development was very well thought out, Shaw said of the proposed plans. And it can be another spark in the district to help it develop and grow.

More than 63,000 students were enrolled at Alamo Colleges various educational institutions during the 2017 spring semester. St. Philips is both a historically black college and a Hispanic-serving institution.

pohare@express-news.netA 3-year-old boy died Sunday after being found unresponsive in a Stone Oak swim school pool the night before in what San Antonio police are calling a tragic accident.

Mitchell Chang was identified by the Bexar County medical examiners office on Sunday afternoon as the drowning victim.

According to Officer Carlos Ortiz, Mitchell was found by staff members in the deep end of a pool at the Love to Swim School at 20210 Stone Oak Parkway.

Ortiz said staff called 911 at around 7:45 p.m. and were performing CPR on the child when emergency medical personnel and police arrived.

It is unclear how long the boy was in the pool or how he ended up in the pool by himself.

Mitchell was transported to North Central Baptist Hospital in critical condition, where he died at 5:35 a.m. Sunday, officials said.

The Love to Swim School was hosting a parents date night Saturday evening, according to the website for the business.

No one at the school is currently facing any charges, police said.

aluna@express-news.net

Twitter: alexluna801

Staff Writer Chris Quinn contributed to this report.AUSTIN  Andrew White plans to start airing the first television ad of the Democratic primary for governor Monday in his hometown of Houston, focusing on his rescue of people stranded by Hurricane Harvey.

A son of Democratic Governor Mark White, and a son of Texas, says the narrator in the 30-second ad, which was provided to the San Antonio Express-News. A common-sense leader, Andrew knows Texas can do better. Hes running for governor to do right by every Texan. No matter what it takes.

Scenes in the ad include partially submerged cars, White driving his boat, text messages from his neighbors asking for help, people being rescued and an appearance by White on CNN during its Harvey coverage, in which he is credited with having rescued dozens and dozens of people.

White has said he was called by police to help with rescues when they learned from a friend of his that he had a boat. He continued rescue efforts for five days.

His campaign said the Son of Texas ad will run Monday through primary election day, initially in Houston, on broadcast and cable. It did not put a figure on the advertising buy.

A businessman who has made a $1 million loan to his campaign, White apparently is reaping the benefits of having some cash on hand. He will be the first candidate in the crowded Democratic primary race for governor to air a television ad.

White and former Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez  viewed as the main competitors in the nine-way race for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination  havent raised a substantial amount of money from donors.

Their combined take is beyond overshadowed by that of Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, who has more than $43 million in his campaign account.

White often talks about how his decision to run for governor stemmed from two things: Experiencing firsthand the impact of Texans helping each other after Harvey and feeling afresh the legacy of his father, who died last year.

The former governor drove public school reforms, including the no-pass, no-play requirement. He pushed a tax increase to fund education and transportation, telling lawmakers to blame him for it.

He lost his re-election bid as a result, but stood by a decision he figured was in line with Texas icon Sam Houston: Do right, and risk the consequences.

His son has adopted the same mantra, pushing for the state to invest in education and health care. He has derided Abbott for calling a special legislative session that included a bill to restrict the public restrooms that transgender people can use.

Still, Abbott will be tough to beat in a state that hasnt elected a Democrat to statewide office in more than two decades, especially with his formidable fundraising advantage.

The latest campaign finance reports showed White had $168,500 in cash on hand, besides his $1 million loan. It showed Valdez had $83,876 in cash on hand. She made a $5,000 loan to herself.

Both candidates also have received endorsements that can help their campaigns, including a new one for Valdez, who is being backed by Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins.

Jenkins told the San Antonio Express-News that Valdez was a very effective sheriff and effective leader of the part of Dallas County that has the most employees.

In my dealings with her, shes plainspoken, and what she says shell do is what she does, Jenkins said.

Jenkins said his endorsement decision wasnt based on concerns over White but on his knowledge of Valdez.

Valdez also is backed by Planned Parenthood Texas Votes and the political arm of the Texas AFL-CIO.

White has been endorsed by the Houston Chronicle and the Dallas Morning News. The Morning News wrote that during its editorial board meeting, she said she didnt know if the state is spending $8 million or $8 billion on border control.

The GLBT Political Caucus in Houston also backed White, even though Valdez was the first lesbian to be elected Dallas County sheriff.

Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings  like Jenkins, a Democrat  said at a Texas Tribune forum Friday that he didnt intend to make an endorsement in the primary election.

Peggy Fikac is a San Antonio Express-News staff writer. Read more of her stories here. | pfikac@express-news.net | @pfikacArturo Infante Almeida has spent so much of his career as a curator, art dealer and an advocate and promoter of artists, he doesnt quite know how to soak up attention at an exhibit, even when he has mounted it.

Hes usually the guy guiding people in front of a painting he thinks theyll want to see; sharing back stories of artists and their works; and canvasing the gallery for anything out of place.

Its that eye. It cant stop working.

Over almost two decades, he has helped assemble the University of Texas at San Antonios art collection, through acquisitions and donations. It now contains 2,600 works and is reaching the $4 million mark. Almeida has mounted about 200 exhibits.

At Centro de Artes at Market Square until June 10, VOZ: Selections from the UTSA Art Collection may well represent the pinnacle of a career that started with selling art from his car trunk. At Thursday nights smashing opening, Almeida looked a little uncomfortable, a little emotional in the spotlight.

The 222 pieces by 166 artists people whose work Almeida knows well, some of whom he has seen emerge to prominence  point to a man who has deeply influenced its scope.

Almeida is quick to credit former UTSA president Ricardo Romo, who hired and empowered him. Romo, who retired after a sexual harassment scandal, made art a budget priority. He brought to the university the goal of building an art collection.

Almeida, an artist who does photo collages, put the art and artists in front of him, visiting studios, going to shows, talking to artists. He was doing such work long before arriving at UTSA, representing 19 artists.

He was running Cafe Latino, a coffeehouse on North Main Street, where he peddled sandwiches, empanadas and artists. He had traveled to New York and Los Angeles to see how cafes operated as galleries. Romo was a regular.

Many of those early artists became part of UTSAs collection and are vividly represented in VOZ. Theyre packed onto Centros wall space, as evidence of San Antonios status as a Latino art capital in a city central to the U.S. Latino experience.

The history is all there  the farmworkers movement; the Chicano movement; Raza Unida; Latina empowerment; family, culture, heritage; the search for identity; the borderlands; the fight for civil rights; and the central role of education in that struggle.

In an essay, UTSA scholar John Phillip Santos notes Los Angeles as that other distant outpost of these realities. But its San Antonio that has become a capital of what America is becoming.

Almeida took a turn in explaining UTSAs role in telling this story.

For 300 years, San Antonio has been a place where different languages, customs and traditions have merged to form a unique cultural history. The work on these walls is informed by pride, joy and a tenacity that reverberates in the voices that celebrate the Latino experience.

Of the exhibitions 222 works, 94 are by local artists, followed by others from South Texas, California and Mexico. The show contains prints from the Cheech Marin collection; a collection of famous images by Mexican master photographers Manuel Alvarez Bravo and Graciela Iturbide; and prints commissioned by UTSA called the Veinticinco, or 25, series.

The list of artists in VOZ, Spanish for voice, is a whos who of the Chicano art world  Trevino, Vargas, Valdez, Rubio, Rodriguez-Diaz, Armendariz, Amado, Ortiz, Rodriguez, Garcia, Rendon, Benavides, Farias, Hinojosa, Baca, Valderas, too many more to name here.

Graduate students are beginning to study them, Almeida says, beaming with pride.

He still takes students on tours of the collection, installed throughout UTSAs campuses. The collection now includes the work of UTSA graduates, making it all the more meaningful to the student body.

VOZ is the largest exhibit Centro de Artes has hosted so far in its short history at Market Square, and the space has never looked so good. You can see it for free 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

eayala@express-news.net | Twitter: @ElaineAyalaAUSTIN  Reporters are people who hang out at home stealing ideas from Twitter, opponents in a political game, antagonists who will rip your heart out and eat it in front of you.

Thats what public information officers heard from Attorney General Ken Paxtons communications director, Marc Rylander, during an open-government seminar.

Such talk doesnt necessarily come as a shock to those of us who request public information from state agencies as part of our job, seeking the details of such things as a multimillion-dollar contract that went south, the way statewide elected officials exercise their power and the issues that are vexing local election officials.

Ive come up against enough delays to know that officials dont always value reporters work or see public information for what it is  information that is required by law to be released to the public, which ultimately owns it.

It was a bit of a personal surprise that it came from Rylander. He has been professional and friendly in my dealings with him, although at least one other newspaper has faced his ire while doing its job.

That newspaper, the Dallas Morning News, first obtained the video of his comments from Paxtons office through the Texas Public Information Act. I also got a copy of the video after asking Rylander for comment on the matter.

Rylanders remarks received particular attention because Paxton interprets the Texas Public Information Act for agencies, which may appeal to him to keep records secret.

We suggest that you remember your taxpayer-funded salary is for serving as a liaison to the public through the news media, said representatives of the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas, Texas Press Association and Texas Association of Broadcasters in a letter to Rylander. Journalists represent the public  the people of this state, the voters. Every day, Texans depend on newspapers, local television and radio stations and online news sites for information about how their government is functioning and how their tax dollars are being spent.

There are state agencies that promptly and courteously provide public information

But there are others that delay the release of information as long as they can or repeatedly ask reporters to narrow their requests in order to reduce charges  which somehow never go away.

Part of our job as reporters is to interact with those who hold public information. In seeking documents, we may talk through the requirements of the Texas Public Information Act, as well as the areas in which agencies have leeway  such as whether to charge for providing public documents.

But Rylanders comments put a mostly negative spin on such interactions through much of his 25-minute session, in which he answered questions from a moderator and the audience.

He had some positive remarks, saying he wants to ensure that his agency never violates the medias right to information that comes from our office.

We want to make sure that were always following the law, he said, describing a free press as something we want and is helpful and good for all of us.

But, oh, the rest of it.

Rylander said his agency may get over 100 inquiries a day when theres a big Supreme Court case and the press has decided to make a few things up in order to sell some articles, some hits, some clicks.

He advised those at the seminar, If you work for a municipality or you work (for a) local government or county government or something like that, recognize the media is not your enemy. The media is just the opponent in a game that is being played.

Asked about the difference between questions from media and from non-media members of the public, Rylander said that people in charge of public information can open up your heart a little bit when dealing with those who are not in the media.

I try to do that with the media to the extent that its possible, he said, but I also know if you lay your heart too far out there with them theyre going to rip it out of your chest and eat it in front of you.

When it was noted that reporters and members of the public love it when information is produced quickly, Rylander responded, Yeah, and communications guys love it when reporters make a request and you all wait until the 23rd hour of the 10th day to send it back to em.

Prodded to say that such action shouldnt be taken, Rylander said, Well, Im supposed to tell you not to do that. Depends who the reporter is.

But under the law, it doesnt depend on that. Agencies have 10 days to seek an attorney generals opinion on whether records should be kept secret, but the law requires that they otherwise provide information promptly.

Your remarks about waiting until the very last moment of the very last day to respond to a public records request, particularly for requestors with whom you have a personal beef, undermined the proper functioning of the Texas Public Information Act. As you should know, this important law - which is there for everyone, not just the news media - calls for public information to be produced promptly, and without delay, wrote the media and open-government groups.

They noted that those in Paxtons open records division work hard to educate the public and government officials about compliance with the law. However, if public information officers across Texas follow your advice, it will undo the good work of your agencys own open government attorneys.

Their letter also took issue with Rylanders assertion that journalists no longer have ethical responsibilities, calling it not only inaccurate, but highly inappropriate, especially in that training setting.

Rylander said reporters dont ever have to leave their apartment or their house. They troll Twitter all morning. Steal a bunch of ideas and jot down some crappy article by 3 oclock. He contended reporters dont try to present both sides of every question.

If you look at the stories from this news organization and others every day, you can see that he is wrong.

We do our homework. We work hard to accurately report stories, and that may include asking for agency-held information that state law says belongs to the people. We do it to help people understand how their government is working, and to let them decide when it is and isnt working for them.

Thats the goal every day, and its one that Rylander undermined with his comments.

pfikac@express-news.net | @pfikac(Les propositions d'article en francais sont acceptees)

The Cinema of Rithy Panh (tentative title)

Rithy Panhs cinematic project offers a sustained meditation on genocide, with nearly every one of his films addressing to some degree the horror that befell his native Cambodia between 1975 and 1979. At the same time, his examination of the Cambodian genocide is not limited to its attendant phenomena of war, displacement, dehumanization, and loss, though these themes are fundamental. Instead, the central premise of this volume is that genocide in Panhs work is at once the object of study and the catalyst for explorations of themes occasioned by, but that also surpass, the brutal reign of Democratic Kampuchea. Among these, we find reflections on rites and rituals, legality and governance, human rights, colonialism, global capitalism, and sexual exploitation, to name but a few. Moreover, as a cinematic art, Panhs work explores the intersection of aesthetics and violence, ethics, and memory, encouraging discussion of framing and editing, the mise-en-scene of voice and testimony, the use of visual archives and animation, and the visual and narrative establishment of point-of-view (e.g., of the victim, perpetrator, or autobiographical subject). We hope to account for Rithy Panhs work as a direct confrontation with the Cambodian genocide and its causes, but also as a creative exploration of the continuation of life in its aftermath.

The author of such films as S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine, Duch: Master of the Forges of Hell, The Missing Picture, and nearly twenty other documentaries, feature films, film adaptations, and audio-visual productions, Rithy Panh has garnered international recognition and numerous awards. He has been in competition for the Palme dor at the Cannes Film Festival and the Oscar for best foreign film. He has won the Un certain regard at Cannes, a Lumiere for best documentary, and awards at film festivals in Vancouver, San Francisco, and Torino, and at the International Human Rights Festival in Nurenberg. In 2013, Panh was named the Asian filmmaker of the year at the Pusan International Film Festival. He is also a producer, contributing to the filmic endeavors of others in Cambodia, including the Franco-Cambodian documentary filmmaker, Davy Chou, and Angelina Jolie, who has recently released an adaption of Luong Ungs First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers. In addition to his cinematic work, in 2006 Panh opened the Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center, a site devoted to recovering and preserving the images and sounds of Cambodias past and to training the next generation of Cambodian filmmakers and archivists.

No monograph or edited volume to date has surveyed the work of Rithy Panh. The proposed volume not only fills this gap in research, but also contributes to scholarly debates on documentary film, the cinema of genocide, Cambodian history, and contemporary (transnational) Cambodian culture and society. In this volume, we seek to account for the conceptual, thematic, historical, and aesthetic richness of Panhs layered and ongoing engagement with genocide. We envision a multidisciplinary examination of his work, with contributions from scholars working in a range of relevant disciplines, including Southeast Asian studies, anthropology, history, legal studies, postcolonial studies, and film studies. We are aiming for a volume that combines analyses of the style and narrative content of Panhs films with essays that position his films as a lens through which to study, for example, religion, community, and political violence in Cambodia, past and present, from specific (inter)disciplinary perspectives.

We encourage contributors to follow one of these approaches and to reflect on the ways in which Rithy Panhs work looks at and beyond genocide. In addition to those listed above, topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

-Khmer mythology

-Khmer rouge propaganda/ideological practices

-Revolution and civil war

-Justice

-History, trauma, and the ethics of documentary cinema

-Displacement and exploitation

-French colonialism/American imperialism

-Buddhism and religious identity (including burial rituals)

-filming of perpetrators

-Family, gender, and society during/in the wake of political violence

-Urban development and decay; rural life and its practices

-Cultural heritage and preservation

-Visual language and cultural/historical inquiry (e.g., photography, architecture, dance)

-Memory and the archive (including reflections on the mission and work of the Bophana Center)

-Techniques for imagining the past, individual and collective memory, etc.

-Cinematic technique: style, mediation, the photographic image, framing, montage, sound/voiceover/music, animation, realism versus invention, fiction/documentary, techniques of narration, modes of interpellation of viewers, etc.

Filmography:

Site 2 (1989)

Les Gens de la riziere (1994)

Bophana, une tragedie cambodgienne (1996)

Un soir apres la guerre (1998)

La terre des ames errantes (2000)

Que la barque se brise, que la jonque souvre (2001)

S21, la machine de mort khmere rouge (2003)

Les Gens dAngkor (2003)

Les Artistes du theatre brule (2005)

Le Papier ne peut pas envelopper la braise (2007)

Un Barrage contre le Pacifique (2008)

Gibier delevage (2011)

Duch, le Maitre des forges de lenfer (2012)

LImage manquante (2013)

La France est notre patrie (2015)

Exile (2016)

*

We ask that contributions include:

-a 250-300-word abstract for a 6,000-word essay

-a brief biography (app. 75 words) plus a list of publications relevant to proposed essay

Timeframe: Abstracts due to us May 15, 2018 for drafts of essays due Summer 2019.

Accessing films: Many of Rithys films are available on dvd in American or French versions. Some are not. In such cases, we the editors may be able to provide some limited-time vimeo versions (most with English subtitles) thanks to the generosity of the Bophana Center.

Please send any queries to:

Leslie Barnes (leslie.barnes@anu.edu.au) and Joseph Mai (jmai@clemson.edu)

https://researchers.anu.edu.au/researchers/barnes-l

https://anu-au.academia.edu/LeslieBarnes

http://www.clemson.edu/caah/departments/languages/about-contact/faculty-and-staff/facultyBio.html?id=368

https://clemson.academia.edu/JosephMaiThe sign outside Connecticuts so-called big tent party reads: elephants only.

But if Dave Walker had his druthers, Republicans would switch to a semi-open primary to allow the states largest electorate bloc, unaffiliated voters, to cast votes for the partys candidates.

The gubernatorial hopeful and former U.S. comptroller general, who resides in Bridgeport, said theres a legitimate upside to changing the eligibility rules of the GOPs closed primary system.

Republicans represent 21 percent of the voting base, Walker said. I think it could help us broaden our appeal and better position us for general election victories.

Connecticuts GOP briefly allowed unaffiliated voters to participate in its primaries in the mid-1980s, but reverted to a closed system when John Rowland was governor. Nineteen states have some form of open primaries.

To change the partys bylaws, it would require the approval of the Republican State Central Committee and delegates at the state partys nominating convention in May, which Walker acknowledged wont happen this year. Walker was a member of a state GOP task force that examined the issue, but took no action.

The subject of open versus closed primaries, or some hybrid, has long been a contentious one in GOP  and now is no different.

Tim Herbst, a bitter adversary of Walker in the governors race and former Trumbull first selectman, staunchly opposes opening up the primary to anyone and said that checks and balances for party switches arent foolproof.

What could happen is Democrats could infiltrate an open primary process to nominate a candidate they felt was more beatable, Herbst said.

He took Walker and fellow GOP gubernatorial contender Mark Boughton, Danburys mayor, to task over their current and past support for allowing unaffiliated voters to cast primary ballots. In a 2014 op-ed piece for the Hartford Courant, Boughton advocated for the change. Herbst noted that Walker finished third that year in the GOP lieutenant governor primary and that Boughton suspended his campaign before the primary.

I find it very interesting that both Mr. Walker and Mr. Boughton after both lost a nominating contest and a primary sometimes take their toys and go home and rewrite the rules to suit them, Herbst said.

Boughton said he no longer supports a semi-open primary, however.

I kind of changed my thinking on that a little bit, Boughton said, adding that the large GOP field for governor shows the energy in the party. The Connecticut Republican Party is alive and well.FAIRFIELD  Nine months after Kevin Kiley, a Democrat, was seated on the Board of Selection following a special election, the State Supreme Court will hear arguments on Feb. 22 in Hartford to void those election results.

The long saga began in December of 2016 when Republican Selectman Laurie McArdle resigned her seat, one year into a four-year term. As per the charter, another Republican, Edward Bateson, was appointed by the remaining board members  Democratic First Selectman Mike Tetreau and Republican Selectman Chris Tymniak.

A group of Democrats then circulated a petition gathering the required signatures to force a special election, a right they said was afforded under state statutes. When Bateson and Tymniak refused to set a date for a special election, the issue headed to state Superior Court in Bridgeport.

Superior Court Judge Barbara Bellis ordered the election be held June 6, over GOP objections, and it was, with Kiley, whod been on the board previously when he was a registered Republican, beat Bateson.

That did not end the matter, however, as attorney James Baldwin, representing Bateson and Tymniak, and ostensibly the town, filed an appeal with the Appellate Court while also seeking certification to the state Supreme Court. The case was ultimately moved to the higher court, with arguments scheduled for the end of this month.

We hope that the justices appreciate the wisdom of Judge Bellis well-reasoned decision and allow the will of the voters to prevail, William Burke, an attorney for the Democrats who originally pushed for the election.

No witness testimony is presented to the high court. Instead, attorneys have submitted written briefs and will have 30 minutes to present their argument.

According to the state website, the state Supreme Court does not decide questions of fact, but rather issues of law, such as the interpretation of a statute. It then takes several months to issue a ruling.

Baldwins argument is that the towns charter only allows for a special election for the Board of Selectmen if the remaining members are unable to agree on a replacement within 30 days of the vacancy.

The Democrats, however, cite Connecticut General Statute 9-222, with addresses the length of the appointment. It reads, in part, the appointee shall serve for the portion of the term remaining unexpired or until a special election is called as hereafter provided...

But Baldwin said since the charter does not mention the length of the term, the person appointed is meant to serve out the remainder of the term. For other elected seats, such as the Board of Finance, the charter indicates that anyone filling a vacancy does so until the next scheduled election, so long as vacancy occurs prior to the close of nominations for that scheduled election. The charter also allows for the Board of Selectmen to call a special election for other boards vacancies or for residents to petition for a special election.

So far, the town has paid $69,902 to Baldwin for his services, and another $7,329 to attorney Robert Morrin. Initially, Tetreau hired Morrin to represent the town, the Board of Selectmen, and the selectmen as individuals, in the case.

However, Bateson and Tymniak called and held a meeting at which they hired Baldwin. Tetreau contends the ability to call a meeting and hire a town attorney, is given to the first selectman alone according to the charter.

Tetreau has twice sent letters to Baldwin, instructing him to cease his representation of the town. Bellis passed the question as to representation to the Appellate Court.On the second Saturday in September, every year since 1844, Usk Farmers Club have held the Usk Show to celebrate the very best of Monmouthshire farming and rural life.



Now one of the biggest One-Day Agricultural Shows in the whole of the UK, its popularity is second-to-none.

Rural Accommodation near this Show



A British fruit grower has moved part of his business to China after highlighting his fears over a possible shortage of workers post-Brexit.

Haygrove, one of the biggest growers of berries in the UK, has begun growing blueberries and raspberries in Chinas southwestern Yunnan province.

The Herefordshire-based grower says the reason for the move was the uncertainty over migrant labour due to Brexit.

It follows new data showing that farming businesses experienced losses and were left with food rotting in fields after more than 4,300 vacancies went unfilled last year on fruit and vegetable farms.

Currently, 200 seasonal jobs have gone from Haygrove's Ledbury-site to China.

Founder of the growing business, Angus Davison told The Guardian: In the UK we employ 230 full-time and 1,150 seasonal workers, but we are now reducing that to 950 because of Brexit nervousness.

We are already out of time, he says, explaining that he cant afford to wait for Theresa May to reveal her immigration policy as this years harvest was planned last year.

'Steep decline'

Mr Davison has written to Prime Minister Theresa May outlining his concerns over the UK's dwindling seasonal labour pool.

His letter read: Unless a seasonal workers scheme is put in place, you must expect to see the steep decline of this significant rural employer and source of food.

It is appreciated that treating one industry differently to another is difficult; however agriculture, unlike construction and hospitality, can be exported. If enough people are not made available to do the work, the work can be taken to the people.

Haygrove is reliant on seasonal migrant labour from eastern European countries. Mr Davison said the whole business could move to China if the situation gets worse.

The National Farmers' Union has also underlined the need for the re-introduction of a Seasonal Agricultural Workers Scheme to combat the labour shortfall.

The union is among 36 food and farming organisations who released a joint statement last weekend calling for the government to ensure ongoing access to an adequate supply of permanent and seasonal labour for food and farming businesses.British food and drink exports reached a record number last year thanks to what Michael Gove calls a "Brexit bonus".

Overseas sales of UK food and drink continued to soar last year, with exports of over 22 billion in 2017.

Defra said the figures show a "clear desire" for British taste, quality and high standards around the world.

UK food and drink businesses are now selling their products to 217 markets  with sales of milk and cream increasing by 61%, salmon by 23% and pork by 14%.

From January to December 2017, the UK exported 85 million worth of cheese to France, 21 million of chocolate to Belgium and even 2 million of tea to China.

'Brexit bonus'

Defra Secretary Michael Gove said farmers have helped deliver a "Brexit bonus".

"The British economy is going from strength to strength showing that a Green Brexit can deliver for the whole country," Mr Gove said.

The US remains the largest market outside of the EU  worth 2.3 billion last year and rising 3% from the previous year.

China is now the 8th largest export market for UK food and drink. Over 560 million worth of food and drink was bought by Chinese consumers last year, who showed a particular preference for UK salmon, whisky and pork.

'Provenance and quality'

Food and Drink Federation Director General Ian Wright CBE said UK food and drink is known across the globe for its "provenance and quality". .

"We must now build upon this platform in order to take advantage of new opportunities and the growing global appetite for great British and Northern Irish manufacturing as we leave the EU," Mr Wright said.

The Government said it is continuing to encourage British food and farming businesses who are launching into overseas markets or expanding their global customer base.

Last month, industry representatives and government officials held the first meeting of the newly created Food and Drink Sector Council.

The Council will work together to boost productivity, meaning industry will be better placed to take advantage of emerging opportunities to access more markets and boost exports as we leave the European Union.

Major UK exports

Whisky (4.5 billion)

Salmon (720 million)

Chocolate (680 million)

Cheese (623 million)

Beer (603 million)

Shellfish (600 million)

Top 5 countries

Irish Republic (3.7 billion)

France (2.3 billion)

USA (2.3 billion)

Netherlands (1.5 billion)

Germany (1.4 billion)Three men arrested on suspicion of modern slavery offences have been released following a protest involving over 100 of their migrant farm workers.

More than 100 migrant workers turned up at a police station to protest against their farm boss's arrest over modern slavery concerns.

The mainly Romanian and Lithuanian migrant flower pickers protested to let the police know that their boss, Wolfe Scrimshaw, was not a criminal.

The crowd gathered at the Camborne police station following a raid on a daffodil farm last Thursday (8 February) due to a suspected case of modern slavery.

Three men, including Mr Scramshaw, were arrested on suspicion of modern slavery offences.

'Very good conditions'

Marin Alina-Florentina, from Romania, spoke on behalf of the crowd during the protest. She said: "Our boss has been arrested and we think he has done nothing wrong. We have very good conditions.

"Ive been working here for four years. If it was bad I wouldnt work here, we wouldnt bring our friends and families here."

25-year-old Marius Alsausras, from Lithuania, has worked nine three-month seasons earning 16 to 160 a day.

She said: There are a lot of facilities and I really like it. I was working on another farm for one year and the conditions were terrible. But here it is perfect. If you don't like it then you can just leave.

Police said the 14 pickers who had asked to leave the farm were taken to a reception centre. Investigations are continuing.

Other cases

Suspected gangmaster offences in Cambridgeshire was reported by police last week, as a Romanian couple were arrested in Cambridgeshire on suspicion of modern slavery in a salad processing factory.

A fortnight ago, a Cornish gangmaster who "systematically exploited" her workers who often worked on farms was shut down by the government.

And in November last year, three people were arrested in Kent as part of an investigation into modern slavery in the poultry industry.Scotland's Rural Economy Minister has said the reintroduction of lynx will happen "over my dead body" in an apparent swipe to the rewilding agenda.

Fergus Ewing told NFU Scotland's AGM last week that the reintroduction species such as lynx, wolves and beavers makes farming more difficult.

He said it wont happen in Scotland as long as Im around.

However, Lynx UK Trust claims it has found considerable support from landowners to release the wild cats in Agryllshire and Inverness-shire.

The Trust believes reintroduction is vital in re-storing a natural balance in the British countryside.

But Mr Ewing said the damage beavers have caused to the farming industry in Scotland, for example, shows precisely why its absolutely essential that we do not proceed on any more misguided experiments of this nature.

'Proper management'

Farmers have expressed concern about the increasing amount of beaver numbers in Scotland.

NFU Scotland has insisted that "proper management" of the species is fundamental in order to avoid impact on agriculture.

Some farmers have warned of considerable damage to farmland and the spread of disease.

Rob Livesey, NFU Scotlands Vice President previously commented about the situation, saying beavers must be "appropriately managed" to minimise the risk of unacceptable impacts on agriculture.

He said it is a view that is shared by many within the conservation community.

He continued: It is essential that Scottish agriculture is not negatively affected by this decision.

NFUS said it is sceptical that beavers can be excluded from areas of highly productive farmland that are heavily reliant on complex drainage systems and flood banks.Urban and rural digital connectivity gap begins to narrow

But rural campaigners say this is 'just the start'A Jealous Friend Had Cursed Ranbir & Katrina

''Their collaboration together, Jagga Jasoos, was, at the time, taking forever to get made. That's when the couple is said to have sought a little other-worldly help. They supposedly hired a healer' who told them that a "jealous friend" had cursed' the house and the couple, which left both their careers in the doldrums.''

But The Curse Was Very Powerful

The healer advised them to organise the cleanse, and they apparently took it a step further by putting crystals and other positive-vibe objects all over the house. Unfortunately, it didn't help.

Stars Resort To Black Magic To Hurt Rivals

One could argue that hex from the jealous friend was so powerful that eventually the couple broke up. But that's Bollywood for you. Today, with so much money and expectations riding on films, producers, directors and even actors look to the stars for help.

Numerology and changing the title of the film is de rigueur; Getting scripts blessed', having large, onsite pujas and picking through an astrology chart to select a release date is all par for the course to ensure a hit.

To Keep Bad Vibes At Bay

But there is a dark, seamier side to this all, fuelled by intense competition and the make-or-break brittleness of celluloid careers: Stars have been known to invoke curses, stick pins in voodoo dolls and resort to black magic and tantric arts to physically and emotionally hurt rivals.

This, in turn, drives many film folk to a paranoia that can only be salved by spiritual healers (and - let's be honest - more than a fair share of quacks) to keep bad vibes and actions at bay. In this frenzied roundabout of curses and counter-curses, black magic and protective shields', voodoo and even witchcraft, healers in Mumbai are making hay.

An Actress Had Enquired, ''How Many Pins Can Be Stuck Inside A Voodoo Doll?''

An online search for black magic in Mumbai' throws up the names and addresses of at least 40 practitioners, many of whom describe their art' as a means to find love, success and peace of mind.

Everybody Practices The Black Arts

A handful of them have celebrity clients as well - from successful and struggling actors, directors, choreographers and assistants, right down to casting agents. Occasionally, news about a superstar purchasing a 5-kg crystal for his birthday, or an actress enquiring how many pins can be stuck inside a Voodoo doll' to be effective, do pop up, but the healers, wiccans and magicians refuse to reveal any details on record.

Once the recording device is switched off, however, they are happy to regale listeners with all the juicy and quirky details about their high-profile patrons' obsessions.

A Director Was Shocked To See The Room Of An Actress

"Everybody practices the black arts, one way or another," says a black magic specialist, preferring to remain anonymous. "The more they succeed, the more they believe in the black arts. If they fail, they feel the need to practise it some more. Curious and affluent clients walk in every day, but they all have one common emotion driving them, fear."

"There are innumerable tales of leading ladies using black magic for their careers," says filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, adding, with a chuckle, "but these are just whispers..."

She Admitted That She Tried To Destroy Her Boyfriend's Career Through Black Magic

Mirror spoke to a veteran film writer who, after having walked into the bedroom of a former Bollywood actress who recently tied the knot in a quiet ceremony, discovered that she'd been practicing the black arts since the beginning of her career, to get directors to sign her on.

The writer recalls the actress' room being completely devoid of any light, with walls and ceilings lined with feathers, bones and glass ornaments. The actress who, at the time, was learning the art of black magic, admitted that when she was spurned by her actor-boyfriend, she tried to destroy his career through black magic.

When Adhyayan Suman Said This About Kangana

She's not the only one. Actor Adhyayan Suman, in a detailed interview last year, had spoken about former girlfriend Kangana Ranaut's obsession with black magic.

More About The Dark Forces

Even though Ranaut later denied the allegations, she said there is nothing wrong with people who practice witchcraft. "There's nothing to be ashamed of in witchcraft," she said. "Each person's belief or religion belongs to them." Wiccan priestess Ipsita Roy Chakraverti, who has been practicing witchcraft for the last 32 years, believes that the negativity surrounding witchcraft is not because of the practice itself but because "Indian society is not equipped to deal with women with strong minds and successful professional lives".

"Black magic is fuelled by powerful forces and spirits, so it's important to know what you're getting into before you start casting spells or performing hexes - otherwise you might be the one who gets harmed. Most clients choose to believe that they will remain unaffected by the dark forces," a Versova-based practitioner warns. "First, the one who is under the spell experiences the presence of negative energy around him or her. Fear acts as a catalyst and forms a strong base for the magic, as the negativity is equivalent to fuelling the process."

How To Remove The Dark Spell & Curse

He adds: "The practice is also carried out secretly. Often, practitioners ask their clients not to reveal the location of where the practice is being done. This is because the first solution to removing someone's spell of you is to find the point of origin. Once the victim reaches that place, the effects gradually dwindle. Other symptoms of a person affected by black magic include insomnia."

The Women Who Are Cursed Suffer From...

He explains that women who are cursed' first suffer from irregular periods and, in extreme cases, undergo premature menopause. "Often, a woman loses her ability to conceive despite the couple being fine, medically. Some victims also experience increased heart rates and constant body pain," he points out.

Someone Had Cursed The Film Sets Of This Award Winning Director

Hypnotherapist Preety Nagpal says, the curious case of the coconut assistant Interspersed with the sinister is also the ridiculous.

Then The Spiritual Healer Suggested The Director

An award-winning director was convinced that a rival filmmaker had cursed his Film City set after shooting had to be cancelled on two occasions. Once, the set was completely flooded after a crew member forgot to turn off a cooling pipe, and another time, both the hero and the heroine were held up by delayed flights, and an expensive shooting schedule had to be cancelled.

When a member of his unit suggested he visit a healer to neutralise the negative energies cast upon his set, the director readily agreed. The healer told him to break a coconut before the start of shooting every day, while simultaneously picturing his rival, would negate the bad energies. Since there was no mishap after he started carrying out this ritual, the filmmaker and his healer decided to take things up a notch.

Before Starting The Shoot The Director Follows This Ritual Now

Before filming his upcoming thriller in Lucknow late last year, the director hired a nariyal assistant', whose responsibilities included purchasing 150 coconuts, cleaning them and presenting them on set each day all through the outdoor schedule. The director also threw in a 30-minute morning puja that would take place under the watchful eyes of his healer, before each day's shoot.

A Voodoo Practitioner Revealed That This Superstar Makes Sure...

In the inner circles of Bollywood's elite, there are many such nariyal assistants," says an Aaram Nagar-based assistant director, who is also a voodoo practitioner. "A veteran superstar makes sure his personal pundit performs a special puja every time he gets on his private jet.

This Superstar Believes That Two Other Veteran Actors Are Jealous Of Him

The puja is done both outside as well inside the jet using sage petals and branches because the star believes two other veteran actors are always casting spells on him."

The Case Of Blackened Lemons

The superstar once refused to board his jet until his pundit was flown down to the overseas destination to perform the puja. "The more successful an actor becomes, the more scared he or she is of negative energies. But that doesn't stop them from occasionally toying with the dark side themselves," the assistant adds.

In another incident from two years ago, a well-known Bengali filmmaker, known to take his time with projects, threw a fit and fired his nariyal assistant' on a television set for forgetting to remind him about performing a special puja before the first day's shoot. "The filmmaker is known for warning his unit to look out for blackened lemons' that may be hidden all over his set to hinder the shoot, " says an AD who worked with him. "When a shot doesn't turn out as expected even after multiple takes, the director is known to have sent his unit members scrambling to find the hidden lemons."

The Client Often Expects To Send Negative Energy To Someone Else

Clinical hypnotherapist, and tarot, rune and angel-board reader, Preety Nagpal, who has mastered approximately 35 modalities of energy therapy over the last five years, says that sooner or later, many of her affluent clients request her "to teach their supposed nemesis a lesson".

Black Magic Is Not The Only Way

"Big shots often have requests like, I am unable to get my money back or a product I am seeking is not coming my way', and they go on to admit that a certain person is jealous of their success," says Nagpal. Her clients then expect her to "send negative energies towards someone else".

"But black magic isn't the only way," she says. "I've managed to bring people out of their negative chain of thought using the practice of hypno-drama. I take a client seeking a negative remedy into a trance, where they can have a word with the person they believe is harassing them.

Fear Attracts Voodoo Dolls

Using energies, the two talk it out and forgive each other. This can happen over one sitting or over several months." She points out that some hypno-drama takes place with touch, and some without. "I have experienced a client sensing a shift in his or her own nature, as well as the nature of the person they believed was harming them. Hypno-drama works beautifully when you have faith in your healer," Nagpal adds.

Even though she does not practice black magic herself, Nagpal says the prevalence of the black arts in Mumbai has increased manifold with people not realising the amount of bad karma' they are gathering.

"Positive and negative energies work in combination with wind, water and other natural forces surrounding your aura," she says. "Fear creates a lot of negative energy, which in return attracts voodoo dolls, turning your aura bad, and then sour. The idea is to explain to clients to use positive energy to obliterate negativities. And that's what I'm constantly trying to do," she says.

Courtesy- Bangalore MirrorSalman Khan Is Impressed With Bobby's Act In Race 3

A source told Deccan Chronicle, "Salman has loved Bobby in Race 3 and asked him if he was free to do an important character in Bharat. Bobby said that he would do anything for Salman. The makers are now looking at working around Bobby's dates to make him a part of Bharat."

Bobby Also Approached For Housefull 4

Lately, there have been also reports doing the rounds that the actor has been approached for Housefull 4. A source told a leading daily, " Sajid Nadiadwala and Sajid Khan are close to Bobby and they felt he would fit the role. Talks are still on. They are yet to sign the actor but mostly, he will give the nod to this film."

Bangkok Diaries

Currently Bobby is busy shooting with the rest of the Race 3 in Bangkok. The actor even tweeted a picture and captioned it as, " Racing on, in Bangkok!! @ShahDaisy25 @BeingSalmanKhan @RameshTaurani @SKFilmsOfficial @tipsofficial #Race3

Mystery Around Bobby's Character In Race 3

Producer Ramesh Taurani was earlier quoted as saying to Mumbai Mirror, "I have worked with Bobby earlier and both Soldier and Naqaab were a great experience. He is an absolute delight to work with, very professional and a really nice guy. He will be styled differently in the film and you will see him in a never seen- before avatar."

Talking About Bharat

The film is an official remake of the South Korean film 'An Ode To My Father'. Bharat will showcase several landmark events in India's history which will be revisited in the film which spans six decades. We hear that the partition of 947 figures among the aforementioned events for which a set is being created in the Abu Dhabi desert to resemble the Indo-Pakistan border.

Salman Khan's Big Surprise

The superstar will be sporting four-five looks in the film through 60 years, and one crucial part will focus on his late 20s, in which the 52-year-old actor will look leaner and much younger.Ranveer Singh is garnering praise for Padmaavat and needless to say, the way he portrayed Khilji on screen was just mindblowing.

In a recent interview with Indian Express, when Ranveer was asked about the bisexual relationship shared by Khilji and Malik Kafur, he said, "People from whom I seek advice were very apprehensive about it."

"Their logic was that the majority of audience still have a very traditional mindset. This is a big risk to take, especially since no one had done this before in mainstream Hindi films."

"I'm a very liberal person and did not have issues with it, as I thought it made the character more layered."

Talking about receving flak for showing it as a saga of bad Muslim Vs good Hindu, "I disagree with this criticism, outright. That's extremely myopic. The critics have missed out a lot in their criticism."

"They have overlooked his brilliance. What they fail to see is that Khilji is an extremely sharp strategist and great statesman."

"He is intelligent, perceptive and a patron of art. Sure, he has flaws as a character. From my personal moral compass, if I have to pass a judgement on the character, I find him to be evil."

On the work front, Ranveer Singh will be next seen in Gully Boy, opposite Alia Bhatt.Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC) was stunned by a blow dealt by the Federal Reserve at the beginning of February. In an unprecedented move, the Fed has prohibited the bank from growing its assets from the level they reached at the end of 2017, among other penalties.

This is a crushing sanction from the regulator, and it's going to send Wells Fargo reeling.

Dogged by scandal

This is not, of course, a surprise. Wells Fargo's reputation has been in the doghouse since late 2016, when it was discovered that the bank opened millions of new accounts for existing customers. That wouldn't be a problem, except those clients apparently neither requested nor authorized them. Before long, it came to light that this "fake accounts scandal" was more widespread than first reported. All told, the bank admitted that around 3.5 million bogus accounts were created.

Wells Fargo soon dropped the ball again, and more than once. It was also accused of malfeasance with auto insurance products and, worse, mortgages -- a crucial segment for the company.

All of this seems to have eroded customer trust, as growth in most of the bank's key line items has been sluggish. In the company's Q4, its top line grew by only 2% on a year-over-year basis. The preceding three quarters featured either decreases or flat-line growth.

Q4 per-share net profit rose only slightly, while loans and deposits declined by 1% and 2%, respectively. The company's efficiency ratio, once the envy of Big Banking, shot up 10 percentage points to 76%.

Contrast that with the Q4 performance of, say, fellow giant lender JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:JPM). The bank increased both its "managed" (i.e., adjusted) net revenue and its deposits by 5%, and its loans by 4% in its Q4, even if adjusted net profit slipped 1% during the period. Its efficiency ratio was 60%.

A still-thriving economy, among other factors, has been making life good for American banks of late; JPMorgan Chase's encouraging Q4 performance wasn't unusual for the sector. But Wells Fargo has been a laggard, and not only in terms of fundamentals. Here's how its stock did in 2017:

On the mat

Wells Fargo needs to improve, and now. Unfortunately, it's been punched to the ground by the Fed, and it probably won't get up anytime soon.

More than many kinds of enterprises, banks depend on their asset bases (loans are classified as assets, after all) to make money. It'll be one heck of a challenge for Wells Fargo to squeeze out growth in net profit under such conditions -- and for an indeterminate amount of time, as per the Fed's order. Good luck with that.

I feel the scandals are the result of a corporate culture that turned bad at some point (perhaps when the bank started pushing customers to sign up for additional services). That's worrying, because it can be tough to turn around a big organization that goes to the Dark Side.

Also, a penalty of this scope will further diminish the bank's reputation, and that means customer abandonment. Every scandal and sanction increasingly paints Wells Fargo as The Bad Bank.

The likes of JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup (NYSE:C) have done some questionable things in the past, and they've been punished, but never as badly as this. With cleaner reputations, they should be able to scoop up some Wells Fargo defectors.

As we came to the end of 2017, in the wake of those scandals I wrote that I didn't think Wells Fargo would have a solid and productive 2018. That's looking like quite the underestimation now.Table of Contents

0. Introduction

1. Why take-home coding challenges are better than the alternatives, and you should love them

2. The drawbacks of take-home coding challenges

3. The basic types of take-home coding challenges

4. Mistakes to avoid making when given a take-home coding challenge

5. Get organized: how to plan before you write a line of code

6. Writing tests: just do it!

7. How to unlock your debugging superpower

8. Make it work, then make it pretty, then make it fast

9. How to make your code shine

10. How to take your challenge to the next level

11. How to write a kick ass README

12. Final steps before you hit send

13. After you hit send: prepare to discuss your code

14. Frequently Asked Questions

15. Conclusion

0. Introduction

Hi, Im Jane. Im a software engineer, but I do not have a CS degree. I actually studied fine art in college. So, how did I end up here?

In 2015, I attended General Assemblys Web Development Immersive Bootcamp. A friend told me about General Assembly and I happened to be trying to teach myself to code. I wasnt satisfied with my progress from reading books and working through online tutorials - I wanted to build things! After all, as an artist, I found code to be just another medium of expression, with the browser as my canvas.

I was accepted to General Assembly, and enrolled in their 12 week in-person bootcamp in San Francisco in the spring of 2015. Three months later, I had built 3 apps, with 3 different tech stacks. Then, after 3 months as a Developer in Residence at GA, I landed my first full-time job as a software engineer, more than doubling my salary from my previous career in the apparel industry. Over two years later, Im on my third job since bootcamp and have learned a ton, not only about programming, but also about the technical interview process.

I wrote this guide because I want to help others with non-traditional backgrounds succeed on take-home challenges. Please read it, take notes, apply the material, and let me know about your results. You can reach me via email at jane@fullstackinterviewing.com.

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1. Why take-home coding challenges are better than the alternatives, and you should love them

Let me start with a story:

The last time I was interviewing for a job, I had this one on-site interview

The interview itself was scheduled for 4 and a half hours, but before I was even invited to that interview I had already had coffee with the VP of Engineering and a 1 hour technical phone interview with one of the engineering managers.

The company asked me to bring my computer to the interview, because I would be doing some live coding. I knew the interview was going to be long and grueling, so I was already nervous. I had little idea what to expect or how many people I would be meeting with.

After being grilled for an hour on my resume and work history, it was time for the live coding portion of the interview.

I took my computer out of its case, and I was ready to go.

The next interviewer came in, asked me some questions, then said, Now Id like you to build the homepage of our site.

I knew that we only had a total time of about 45 minutes, with the last 5 minutes reserved for questions.

Nervously, I opened my computer, opened a new file and started typing. The interviewer was LITERALLY staring over my shoulder watching me code.

At this point, I was just thinking I needed to get through the rest of this 45 minute session. I was trying to think as fast as possible, but with the person staring over my shoulder giving me no guidance, I just froze.

After several minutes where I searched for documentation and CSS rules on Stack Overflow, the interviewer either finally sensed that I was feeling uncomfortable or determined I wasnt working quickly enough, so decided to switch up the task. We continued with live coding, but moved on to some Javascript questions. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, our time came to an end and I was SO relieved. I could not wait for that portion of the interview to be over.

I made it through the rest of the interview sessions and left the building exactly four and a half hours later feeling mentally drained and completely exhausted.

A day or two later, I heard back from the company. They said that they hadnt gotten enough of a sense of my coding ability during my on-site interview, so they wanted me to complete a take-home challenge.

Now, of course I was thinking, couldnt we just have avoided all of the time spent in the on-site interview if they had simply given me a coding challenge first?

Without the pressure of anyone watching over my shoulder as I worked, I went ahead and completed the coding challenge over the following weekend. I was interviewing with a few other companies, so was on a bit of an accelerated timeline. I put a TON of effort into the challenge, really going above and beyond in every way that I could.

I sent the completed challenge to the company, and even though it was over a weekend, they reviewed it and got back to me right away. They were incredibly impressed and were eager to chat with me about next steps!

When it comes to technical interviews, I will always prefer a take-home coding challenge over a whiteboarding session. Even now, with over 2 years of professional experience as a software engineer, I still feel that a take-home challenge is a better way for me to showcase my skills and for an interviewer to assess them. Why? Because a take-home challenge is a much closer approximation to my actual day to day work as an engineer than any kind of whiteboarding session.

Though not all companies offer take-home challenges, many more are starting to in order to open up their candidate pools to engineers from all backgrounds, not just those with traditional CS degrees. My goal in writing this guide is to get you excited about completing a take-home challenge if a company gives you one. I want you to be completely set up for success when you receive a take-home challenge, and know exactly what to do and how to crush it when you get one.

I LOVE take-home challenges! They are very similar to projects you would complete in a coding bootcamp or in an online course. In the 3 times Ive gone through the interview process over the last 2 years, Ive completed quite a few.

Here are the 7 reasons I love them:

1. You can work at your own pace in your own development environment

2. You can showcase your practical skills

3. You have an opportunity to learn and improve your coding skills

4. You are building your portfolio and a resource for the future

5. You can get a feel for the kind of work youd be doing and the problems you might be trying to solve at a company

6. You dont have to miss work to complete a take-home coding challenge

7. You can easily differentiate yourself from other applicants by going above and beyond

1. You can work at your own pace in your own development environment

Unlike a whiteboarding interview or a timed coding test, you get to decide when you want to work on a take-home coding challenge. This means you can set your own schedule and work at your own pace. You dont have someone staring over your shoulder watching you code on your laptop or on a whiteboard.

Instead, the only pressure you have is the pressure you put on yourself to finish. Also, you dont have to stress out about remembering language specific syntax as in whiteboarding interviews, because you can always look up anything you need. Because you are setting your own schedule and working at your own pace, you can also choose when its time to move from one requirement to the next or when something is done. Youre also able to work in your own development environment that you are most comfortable in. Finally, with take-home challenges, when you plan properly, you have time to edit and review your code before you send it to be reviewed. Through this editing process, you can catch mistakes and even improve your code, for example by DRYing it up.

2. You can showcase your practical skills

Take-home coding challenges are an excellent way to showcase your skills and focus on what you love doing. Instead of spending time memorizing data structures and algorithms, you get to build a widget, component or small app, which is so much fun. The best part is, if youre particularly drawn to a certain part of the stack, a certain language, or a specific technology, you can put a lot of focus on that in your challenge.

Because take-home challenges are a closer approximation to your day to day work as a developer, they are also a more realistic indicator of how you will perform in a specific role. With whiteboard interviewing, a candidate may be very good at solving algorithm problems, but not resourceful when it comes to building features or debugging. In this case, a candidate can pass an interview because they are good at interviewing, rather than because they are proficient in a certain language, for example.

On the flip side, if youre great at building things, but have trouble interviewing, it will take much more time and energy to excel at whiteboarding interviews because youll need a lot more practice. Ultimately, I think take-home challenges are a win-win because both the candidate and the company are able to assess if the position is a good fit much more easily.

3. You have an opportunity to learn and improve your coding skills

Ok, this is one of my favorite reasons to do take-home challenges! Not only can you showcase your existing skills, but you can also improve them and learn new ones. Every time you build a new app, youre getting more and more practice programming, becoming self-sufficient searching and debugging, practicing getting organized before a project, understanding how to scope tasks, and knowing when to stop working.

Also, you can use a take-home challenge as an opportunity to learn a new technology. In some cases, you will have to complete your assignment using a specific framework, language, technology or stack. If youre not familiar with it, thats ok! Youll likely spend time reading and referencing docs as well as completing tutorials in order to get your project off the ground. In the cases where the technology is open-ended, but youve been wanting to try something new, these challenges are a great opportunity to do so.

For example, I was given a front-end challenge and had previously been using Angular as my go-to front-end framework. I was in the process of learning React, so I choose to use React for this challenge, and, having done that, I now have a much better understanding of React than when I started.

4. You are building your portfolio and a resource for the future

In my experience, many companies are ok with candidates having their take-home challenges public on Github. But, you should ALWAYS ask before making your challenge public. Also, if you do make a challenge public, its a good idea to exclude the company name. Many companies continuously use the same coding challenge, and they would rather not have multiple solutions available on GitHub with their name attached. This means that yes, in many cases, your challenge can live publicly on GitHub and all of your commits will count toward your beautiful green streak!

I occasionally go back and reference my own challenges when Im looking for small examples. Once I was implementing a feature in a production app that was similar to something I had built for a take-home assignment. It was really helpful to be able to look back at my old challenge as a point of reference.

5. You can get a feel for the kind of work youd be doing and the problems you might be trying to solve at a company

Take-home challenges are also more like the work youll actually be doing as a full-time developer, so doing them is great practice for your future job. A company may give you a take-home challenge that is a small-scale version of a big problem they are wrestling with or involves a key component at the crux of their application.

Here are some examples:

If authentication and permissioning are critical to a companys product, they may ask you to build an app with specific requirements around authentication.

If the company ingests and parses data from a lot of different external APIs, they may ask you to build a small version of this type of infrastructure.

If data visualization is a key component for a company, you may be asked to visualize data in specific ways or come up with your own solutions to problems they are facing.

Also, some companies have language or framework specific coding challenges. For example, Ive received two challenges where companies have requested that I use Ruby on Rails because they wanted to evaluate how I would work within their specific tech stack.

6. You dont have to miss work to complete a take-home coding challenge

This is one of the best reasons to opt for a take-home coding challenge. Unlike a traditional several hour long whiteboarding interview, a take-home coding challenge can be completed outside of work hours.

I have always dreaded having to take a day off to attend an interview. In-person interviews are already stressful enough because they usually require advance preparation, and dealing with the logistics during work hours simply adds more stress. That said, you will have to build in several hours of time in your likely already busy schedule to complete a take-home challenge, but at least it will be on your own time. If you are really excited about a specific company, it should be easy to make the time to complete a challenge for them.

7. You can easily differentiate yourself from other applicants by going above and beyond

This is my favorite benefit of take-home challenges! Unlike timed coding tests or in-person interviews, the flexibility you have with take-home coding challenges allows you to easily go above and beyond. In a whiteboarding interview, you are put on the spot, so it can be hard to perform well and stand out as a candidate unless youve spent tons of time up front preparing. You might miss an edge case or forget about testing entirely if youre nervous.

With a take-home challenge, you can spend more time planning ahead to ensure that what you submit will really stand out. You have time to make sure your code is properly tested, is easy to read, and flows logically. Because you can take time away from your challenge, you can work on it, then come back to it later with more clarity. Its similar to when youre working on a tough problem: you take a break, and you come back to the problem in many cases only to find out that it was a simple mistake causing your error.

So, how can you differentiate yourself? The possibilities are endless. For example, if you love CSS, instead of using a library like Bootstrap to style your app, you can write your own custom styles, add animations, use a preprocessor like SASS or LESS, or showcase anything else that you specifically love about the language. If, like me, you love Javascript, you can focus on the interactions on the client side, or build out your apps server side using Node.js. If you love writing tests, you can focus heavily on testing best practices and ensure that your app has full test coverage. If youre a fan of APIs, you may be able to build one as part of your app or pull and transform a bunch of data from an external API.

These are just a few examples, but the list goes on and on, and its really up to you to decide what to focus on and how to showcase your strengths. But having the ability to decide in the first place is one of the huge advantages of take-home challenges.

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2. The drawbacks of take-home coding challenges

Full disclosure, there are two main drawbacks, both related to time management. However, I firmly believe that the positives outweigh the negatives.

1. Its very difficult to juggle multiple challenges at once

2. Take-home challenges can be very time consuming

1. Its very difficult to juggle multiple challenges at once

First, its very difficult to juggle multiple challenges at once, especially if you are balancing job hunting with a career or other responsibility.

If youre working full-time and simultaneously interviewing for a new position, you may have experienced this before. Heres the scenario: company A sends you a take-home challenge and you start working on it, only to be sent another challenge from company B, who you are also interviewing with.

If youre in the position of juggling multiple challenges, though, remember that this is a GOOD thing! It means that companies like you and are excited about you as a candidate.

Some companies will include suggested completion times with their challenges, while others will simply ask you to get back to them by a certain date, often within a week. To be honest, I often ignore suggested completion times because they are usually very unrealistic for me. But, in reality, were all busy. If you find yourself in the position of juggling multiple challenges OR you simply have other obligations and know you will not be able to complete a challenge by the deadline, you will need to ask for more time.

Learning how to push back on timelines is an important skill to develop as an engineer, so if a companys timeline seems unrealistic, you are more than welcome to spend more time on a challenge. However, if there is a hard deadline and you are unable to finish the challenge by that deadline, you MUST email your contact to let them know that you will be turning in your challenge late. For many companies, asking for more time is not a problem, but you need to correctly manage expectations as well.

You can also check out the FAQ section, where I address this scenario and other questions.

2. Take-home challenges can be very time consuming

Second, take-home challenges can be very time consuming, especially if you want to impress your interviewers (TIP: you do). Like I said before, some companies will give you a suggested time. For smaller projects, this is usually fine, but for larger projects that require an entire app to be built, I usually ignore those time parameters. Why? Three reasons:

I almost always find the time suggestion to be unrealistic

Because I like to spend the time to get organized before I write a line of code, write a README (which youll see more on later), and take care to review my code before submitting it, this adds to the total amount of time that I usually spend on the challenge as a whole. Sometimes, actually writing the code wont take that long, but that is only if Ive had experience with the type of task and framework or language required.

For example, I once got a coding challenge that had a time suggestion of 4 hours. The challenge required building a single page app with a server that pulled data from an external API. As someone who is more familiar with front-end development and less familiar with building APIs, I spent extra time getting the API endpoints to work the way I wanted. I also chose to build this app in the framework the company used, which I was less familiar with, which meant I needed to spend some time reading documentation and working through tutorials. This was a great learning experience, but took me more than 4 hours.

In my day-to-day as an engineer, Im rarely building new apps from scratch

Most coding challenges require you to start from scratch, but this is not a practice that a typical developer does everyday. So, there is often some time needed to reacquaint yourself with installation and set-up steps. Sometimes these steps can cause headaches when they are unfamiliar or hard to debug.

In order to impress the interviewer, I will go above and beyond the requirements

If I want to differentiate myself from other applicants with a coding challenge, I am likely going to spend longer than the time that is suggested. Why spend the extra effort, you ask? Well, if you are really interested in a company, one of the best ways to show your interest and excitement is to go above and beyond on a coding challenge. Especially if you are newer to programming, companies like to see that youre willing to take on a challenge and learn something new!

3. The basic types of take-home coding challenges

There are several different types of coding challenges that companies assign based on the types of roles they are hiring for. For example, a company may assign a different challenge depending on whether they are hiring a front-end engineer, a full-stack engineer, or a back-end engineer. Here are some examples of the different types of coding challenges you can expect, depending on the role:

Front-end challenges:

Build a user interface for a specific type of interaction Box-to-Box Drag and Drop Create two large squares on the screen and fill one of them with smaller squares. The design, color, and layout is completely up to you, but make sure that each small square is uniquely identifiable using text, color, etc. Requirements: - Any small box dragged and dropped over another small box should swap positions with the other small box - Any small box dragged and dropped on the other large square should be moved to that square and swapped with any small box already there - There should be a button that allows the user to reset the small box positions - There should be a button that allows the user to randomize the layout and positioning of the small boxes within both large squares The final project needs to work in the latest stable versions of Chrome and Safari. Once completed, compress all files into a zip archive and send it back. Example 1: Drag and Drop



Display data from an external API in a client-side app Create a web page that shows a photo in a lightbox view, with the ability to move to the next/previous photos and display the photo title. You can use any public API that returns photos (i.e. Flickr, Instagram, Google Image Search, Yahoo Image Search) It should run without errors in the latest versions of Chrome, Safari, Firefox and IE. Please send the code (Github repos are fine) and a URL where the working lightbox can be seen. Example 2: Photo Lightbox App



Build a game Tic Tac Toe App Requirements: * Build a two player tic tac toe app where a game is played by alternating clicks until the game is won by X, O or is a tie. * Include a reset button so that when a game ends, the board can be cleared and a new game can begin. Bonuses: * Make the board fully responsive * Allow for more than 1 game to be played simultaneously Example 3: Tic Tac Toe Example 4: Connect Four





Full-stack challenges:

Build an entire app with persistent data Example 5: Email Preferences App

Pull data from an API and visualize it



Back-end challenges:

Build an API Example 6: Movie App



For the rest of this guide, Im going to use the Tic Tac Toe challenge above as an example of implementing the process I outline. You can view the source code here.

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4. Mistakes to avoid making when given a take-home coding challenge

There are several mistakes you can make with take-home challenges. Some of these are small mistakes that are easily correctable, while others will leave you frustrated and unable to finish your assignment. I want to address these mistakes first, so when youre given a take-home challenge, you know exactly what not to do. If youve completed a take-home challenge before, you might have even made one of these mistakes in the past. But, dont worry - mistakes are a part of the process and everyone makes them. Knowing these ahead of time will simply allow you to evaluate whether a given challenge is right for you and give you more confidence when you do move forward with one!

Here are the 8 mistakes you can make:

1. Taking on an assignment when you arent quite prepared or dont quite have the skillset for it

2. Time management and scope creep

3. Trying to learn too many new things at once

4. Making too many assumptions

5. Blindly copying code without understanding how it works

6. Submitting sloppy code

7. Leaving too many comments in your code

8. Starting to code right away

1. Taking on an assignment when you arent quite prepared or dont quite have the skillset for it

This is possibly the biggest mistake you can make. As an engineer, it is very important to know your own limitations - you should know what your strengths and weakness are. Everyone, even the most experienced engineers, still have room to learn and grow because there are always new technologies popping up or new languages and paradigms to learn. An experienced engineer will also not be afraid to admit when they dont know something, and this is a very important skill to develop and demonstrate.

A take-home coding challenge can end up being a frustrating waste of time if you dont have the right skill set for it. For example, I was interviewing with a very small start-up, and they were looking for an engineer who could do everything. When they sent me their coding challenge, it was a pure back-end challenge - it required database administration and building APIs. I had mostly been working on front-end stacks, so when I read through their challenge, I realized that it would be a stretch for me to complete it at all, let alone in a reasonable amount of time. Getting a coding challenge that didnt fit my skill set helped me realize that this role wasnt the best fit for me, so instead of telling myself to power through, I emailed them to let them know that I didnt think the position was a good fit. I felt good about this decision, because ultimately it actually saved everyone time.

Would I have learned something from working on their challenge? Yes, absolutely. Would I have spent hours reading documentation and searching to understand best practices? Also, YES. In this case, the total time it would have taken me to complete the challenge outweighed the positive benefits. I would have learned a lot, but I also would have spent forever trying to figure out the best way to organize my app and been banging my head against the wall debugging (or just figuring out how to debug) weird errors that I had never seen before.

2. Time management and scope creep

Time estimation is one of the hardest problems in programming, and even experienced engineers struggle with it. I had a boss who explained a simple formula for estimating how long a task will take: take however long you think it will take and double it. So, if you think something will take you a day, give yourself two days. If you estimate a project will take you two weeks, it may actually take four weeks. I like this philosophy because in programming, as in life, there are always unpredictable factors.

This plays into take-home challenges in a couple of ways. First, some challenges come with estimated time. Like I said earlier, I usually ignore these, as they are rarely based in reality. Another thing you can do is follow my old bosss principle and actually double the estimated time. Then, keep track of how long you actually spend and compare the two at the end.

Second, some challenges are open-ended. For example, they might ask you to build a client app using an external API, but not provide any specific requirements beyond that. Many people, especially newer developers, will want to add tons of features because they think it will be impressive. Actually, its more impressive if you keep the scope relatively narrow, but finish everything you set out to do. In this situation, its better to do one thing really well than to do a million things half-assed. You could spend a lot of time building a really beautiful and clean user interface that has full test coverage, rather than adding a bunch of small features that dont really work well or work together.

A good question would be: what counts as going above and beyond versus what counts as scope creep? My rule of thumb would be if your idea accomplishes or improves on the requirements of the assignment, that is likely a good idea, but if it seems tangentially related or just cool, its probably scope creep. But, as I describe later, always make it work first.

3. Trying to learn too many new things at once

While a take-home coding challenge can be an excellent opportunity for learning, it is possible to take on too much learning. What does that mean? Well, if youre given a challenge where you must use a specific language or framework, but youre not familiar with it, dont add additional complexity by setting out to learn something new on top of that. For example, if you are using a new backend framework for a full stack app, stick to a frontend framework that youre already comfortable with.

If your challenge is language/framework agnostic, but youve been itching to try out some new technology, pick JUST ONE to experiment with. Between reading the docs, getting your challenge properly set up and getting used to any new syntax, you will have your hands full. Even learning one thing will eat up a lot of your time, so I would highly suggest limiting yourself to one new piece of technology per challenge.

4. Making too many assumptions

Do you remember the phrase Never ASSUME, because when you ASSUME, you make an ASS of U and ME? Well, its true. As a developer, if you make too many assumptions, you are bound to build an application where the requirements are off, or the user experience is bad. When given a set of requirements for a take-home challenge, ALWAYS take the time to review the requirements and make sure you fully understand them. And, if you have any questions at all, always ask.

First, this shows that you are willing to ask for help when you dont quite understand something, an important trait for a developer to demonstrate. Second, many companies will intentionally give you product requirements that are vague or not fully fleshed out in order to see how you react in these situations. They are actually testing your ability to make sense of requirements that may have gaps in them. So, when in doubt, ask questions. Asking questions is also a signal that you are engaged and interested in the challenge.

5. Blindly copying code without understanding how it works

There will probably be at least a few cases where you need to search for a solution to a bug or problem in your code. Using references you find is a great idea as long as you dont engage in cargo cult programming.

I know, its hard to resist copying and pasting code when youve found the perfect solution to your obscure problem on a StackOverflow post you came across on your 5th Google search. However, when you copy code, you not only need to understand how it works, but you will likely also need to explain it later, so blindly copying something is NEVER a good idea. NEVER. SERIOUSLY PLEASE JUST DONT DO IT. Also, when you just copy and paste random code, it can look out of place, mess up the flow of your code, and make your submission look less impressive.

Instead, you should first make sure you understand what the code is doing by playing around with it in a repl or console. Then, rewrite it to fit within what youve written. Finally, test it out within the code you already have and make sure it works. People make mistakes, and you never know when youll encounter a typo or edge case that was not considered, so testing is super important here.

6. Submitting sloppy code

Another mistake you can make with a take-home challenge is submitting sloppy code. If your code is disorganized or hard to read, you will definitely not move on to the next interview round. Take pride in your code and make it beautiful.

What exactly makes your code sloppy? A few things:

Improper indentation

Really long lines

Log or debugger statements

Using improper casing

Commented out code

Indentation and long lines of code are especially important to keep in mind, because these contribute to readability quite a bit. If your code is hard to read simply because of formatting, it will take more time for the engineer reviewing it to read through it. Also, if you arent already in the habit of writing clean code, a company might assume that on top of mentoring you technically, they will have to help you get organized as well.

Log statements and improper casing are less important, but you should treat your coding challenge in the same way that you would treat production code, so try to keep things consistent and avoid useless code.

The same applies for commented out code. Commenting out code in your app in order to test things as you work can be a useful strategy, however, youll want to make sure you remove any commented out code before submission. Commented out code in production codebases is like cobwebs in a dusty attic - no one wants to weed through them to get to what they are looking for.

Speaking of comments, they can be incredibly useful, but your code shouldnt be so complicated to read that it requires comments everywhere. Dont make the same mistake I did when one time I submitted a coding challenge with 27 lines of comments for 67 lines of Javascript. Thats 40% comments! I literally wrote comments before every variable and function definition. If you get naming right (explained below in How to make your code shine), you wont need nearly as many comments, and you can move on with your life.

Also, please dont ever leave TODO comments in a coding challenge. If theres something you couldnt finish or get to, a TODO comment is not the way to handle it.

You can read more on comments in How to use comments effectively in your code below.

8. Starting to code right away

One last mistake you can make, is to jump in and start coding right away. I guarantee if you do this, you will regret it. Why? Two reasons:

Without proper planning, your code will suffer

Without first getting organized and making sure you fully understand ALL of the technical requirements, you may find yourself missing edge cases or rewriting parts of the functionality. I know it seems counter-intuitive, but you will actually SAVE yourself time if you plan ahead.

You will spin your wheels trying to get your app set up properly

Especially for newer developers, initial app setup can be one of the hardest parts of a take-home coding challenge. Its not something you do every day, so it often takes some research and reading documentation to get reacquainted with the process and ensure youre going about it in the best way.

So, there you have it - a summary of mistakes to avoid making. Youll find that a lot of these are also applicable to your day to day work as a developer. In the next section, well dive into further detail on how to get organized before you write a single line of code.

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5. Get organized: how to plan before you write a line of code

So, you may be thinking, ok, Ive gotten my coding challenge, Ive gone through your list of mistakes and havent made one yet, so now it must be time to write some code! Well, youve almost got it. Yes, it is time to get to work! But, its NOT time to write any code YET.

Why?

Because, as youll see, a lot of the work actually happens before you write a single line of code. This may seem counterintuitive, but the more time you spend up front planning, the less time you will spend writing code. This is called front-loading the work, a technique I learned from Ramit Sethi.

So, now you have your coding challenge in hand and you are ready to get started with the planning process. Here are my 6 suggested steps:

1. Understand the requirements and ask any questions

2. Identify technical decisions you need to make

3. Technical design & whiteboarding

4. Test plan

5. App setup plan

6. Organize your tasks

1. Understand the requirements and ask any questions

First, you need to make sure you completely, absolutely, 100% understand the requirements of the project. Do the product requirements actually make sense? Do you know all of the views or components you will have to create for the UI? Do you know the API endpoints you will need to create or pull from?

This is the step where youll need to think about all of the big picture questions about the requirements youve been given. If any part of the requirements are unclear, it is up to you to reach out to your contact and ask questions. Even if you have a question about the technical requirements, that is fair game. For example, I once received a coding challenge where I was told to use vanilla Javascript. I was surprised because most coding challenges I had done allowed libraries or frameworks so I emailed to double check. Im glad I checked because it made their focus on pure Javascript skills crystal clear.

Also, sometimes companies will purposefully make their requirements vague, in order to see how you approach the problem. In these cases, it is always best to ask questions as it shows you are thinking about the problem and not just making assumptions and building an app to a vague spec. Companies want to see that you will speak up and even participate in building the requirements. In some cases, companies do not have product managers, so making sure the engineer is able and willing to ask questions and think through challenges from another perspective is very important.

Here are the requirements for the example Tic Tac Toe app:

Tic Tac Toe App Requirements: * Build a two player tic tac toe app where a game is played by alternating clicks until the game is won by X, O or is a tie. * Include a reset button so that when a game ends, the board can be cleared and a new game can begin. Bonuses: * Make the board fully responsive * Allow for more than 1 game to be played simultaneously

2. Identify technical decisions you need to make

Once youve gone over the requirements in detail and made sure everything makes sense, your next step will be to identify the technical decisions that you need to make. Making a list of all of your technical decisions up front and thinking about them before youre in the middle of building your app will help you immensely. Not only will it cut down on time figuring things out later, but it will allow you to make big picture decisions up front, as opposed to trying to focus on both the big picture and the small details at the same time.

All coding challenges are different, and in some cases, you may be required to use a specific technology, while others will allow you to use any tools you want. For challenges where you have a blank slate, it is best to choose technologies that you are already comfortable with. This will speed up the process because you wont be struggling to learn as you go. If you do want to use a coding challenge as a learning opportunity, I would recommend only choosing one new technology to learn and implement. For more on this, re-read mistakes to avoid making when given a take-home coding challenge.

For coding challenges where you are required to use a specific technology, and its one that you either arent familiar with at all, or havent touched in awhile, you should expect to spend some time going through tutorials and reading documentation. The last time I was interviewing, I received a challenge that required Ruby on Rails, which I hadnt worked with in 2 years. Before I jumped into building the app, I reviewed the documentation and re-learned how to setup a Rails app, which allowed me to rediscover some built in scaffolding I could use to save time setting up my app.

Here are the technical decisions I made for my Tic Tac Toe App:

- Decided on technology (React) - Decided to use a generator (create-react-app) - Decided on React components (square, row, board, and app) - Decided on testing framework and language (Jest and Enzyme, comes pre-built with create-react-app)

3. Technical design & whiteboarding

After you identify the technical decisions you need to make, its time to plan out the rest of your app. Are you building a front-end app that requires wireframes? Or, are you working on a back-end app where you need to plan out your data models and their relationships? Or, are you building an API and need to figure out the endpoints? Do you need to write an algorithm or AI for a game?

For anything that you need to draw out, now is the perfect time to do that. Thinking through these decisions at the start serves two purposes:

Youll be able to reference these drawings and your original plan while youre building your app, so if you get stuck at any point, you can always come back to your notes

Later, when you are having a discussion with an engineer about your coding challenge, you can use these notes as a reference when they ask you why you made certain design or architecture decisions

Newer developers often get caught up in building the app, but later, have a hard time explaining the WHY behind their decisions. Planning in advance will not only help you iron out those decisions sooner, but it will also better prepare you for being able to articulate your decisions later on in the interview process.

Here is the technical design & whiteboarding I did for my Tic Tac Toe app:

Once youve thought through and answered some of the bigger design and architecture questions for your challenge, the next step is research. If youre planning to use a new technology or something youre a bit rusty with, use this time to search for documentation and other resources. Are you worried that your chosen front-end framework will make app setup hard? Maybe there is scaffolding that you can use. Does your challenge require something that you might need a Ruby gem or an NPM package for like authentication or security? Find it now! Do you need to get an API key so you can access data or play around with an API? Get it!

Again, by working through these technical todos and kinks now, youll save yourself from having to stop working on your app to go down a rabbit hole later just to find a specific tool that you need. Now, that may inevitably happen anyway, but minimizing this will save you time in the long run.

4. Test plan

Another very important step to take before writing a line of code is developing a test plan. I learned this while working at Eventbrite, where we created spreadsheets with test plans that other team members reviewed before we began work on a new feature. Although you wont get peer feedback on this test plan, it will help you look at the challenge from a different angle, making sure youre meeting all of the requirements. By thinking through and writing out a test plan before you start coding, you are able to brainstorm possible edge cases that you should account for in your code and you will use this as a basis for testing your app later.

More on how to do this in the next section, Writing Tests: Just Do It!.

5. App setup plan

If youre starting an app from scratch, figure out if there are any generators you can use to make your app setup easier and faster. Application setup is one of the hardest parts of take-home coding challenges because its something that developers do rather infrequently and best practices are always changing, so its easy to forget how to do.

Also, when setting up an app with a specific combination of technologies for the first time, it can be challenging to get everything configured and working together properly. The absolute worst thing to get stuck on is configuring something related to app setup like a bundler or linter, so if there is a tool available to you with specific things you want already built in, feel free to use it!

Some of you might be thinking, but isnt using a generator cheating? Unless your coding challenge explicitly says you must do everything yourself from scratch, absolutely not. Using a generator not only shows that you did your research, but also that you are resourceful. The key is understanding what the generator is doing for you and being able to explain it. Also, if you do use a generator and it creates extra files or directories that you dont end up using, you should delete them to make your overall app architecture cleaner and easier to understand. Just go file by file to ensure you are not deleting anything that is required to run the app!

If you are not using a generator, reading documentation and finding working examples are the two most important steps you can take. Being able to play with a working example and compare it to your own app will help you if you get stuck.

6. Organize your tasks

The last step before you start coding is to breakdown and organize your tasks. Breaking down your tasks is essential because it will help you stay on track as youre working on your challenge and it will give you a game plan for execution. Note that you shouldnt be a perfectionist here because there will always be unexpected bumps in the road.

Here is how I broke down the main tasks for my Tic Tac Toe app:

- Understand requirements - Choose technologies - Brainstorm test plan - Hello World app setup - Build board with HTML/CSS - Implement Tic Tac Toe gameplay with Javascript - Add reset button - Make board responsive - Add ability to add additional boards - Error handling & tests - Code cleanup - README

Some of these tasks can be broken down even further into smaller steps. For example, in order to implement the Tic Tac Toe gameplay with Javascript, I will need to:

- Add a click handler to each square that logs a message - Get click handler to add an X to the square that is clicked - Get clicks to alternate between X and O - Dont allow a square to be clicked more than once - Implement a function to find the winner and end the game - Handle a tie game

Once youve broken down your tasks, you should choose a tool to keep track of your workflow. This can be as simple as pen and paper or you use an app. I personally really like Trello. I start by creating 4 buckets within a board: To-Do, In Progress, Blocked, and Done. I then list all of the main tasks in the To-Do section. As I work, I move tasks across the board like so:

This process serves two main purposes:

Having your tasks listed out helps you feel productive as you complete them because you can essentially check them off by moving them across the board

Organizing all of your tasks in one place gives you a clear roadmap, so if you get stuck on a task and need to come back to it later, you know exactly to work on next

Phew, youve made it through this long section! As youll see, all of this planning will become more important both as youre coding your challenge and also later when youre preparing to discuss your challenge with your interviewer. If you follow these steps, youre guaranteed to feel organized and set up for success.

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6. Writing tests: just do it!

I remember when I first learned about testing at General Assembly. The idea seemed useful, but at the time, I was in bootcamp mode, so I concluded that testing just wasnt something I had to prioritize for my projects. Testing can be overwhelming because there are so many different types of tests: acceptance tests, integration tests, and unit tests, not to mention test driven development vs. ad hoc testing.

I cant tell you how many times in my engineering career that Ive been saved by automated tests. One time, I was working on removing a dependency from a very large codebase. I thought I had removed all of the uses of the library, but when I pushed my final changes to production, I broke 30 acceptance tests! Yeah, so despite being detail oriented and thinking I had updated every use of the library, I actually had missed 30 cases. So, tests saved me from pushing many bugs to production.

Tests are also great because they allow you to be a more confident engineer. You can actually move faster when you have a test suite in place because you can always run the tests to check if your changes broke anything, and if they did, fix them. When you dont have any tests, it can be very scary making any changes to your code at all, especially business critical code.

So, now that Ive made a case for writing tests as a professional engineer, why should you include them in your take-home coding challenge? In addition to all of the benefits I already listed, your tests will make your submission shine.

First, adding tests shows that you know or are willing to learn another technology/framework. It also demonstrates that you take ownership of what youre building, because you are taking responsibility to make sure it works. Testing also shows that youve considered edge cases, which many newer engineers often overlook. Finally, though many companies, especially larger ones, have separate QA teams that handle testing, many startups do not, so being able to write and test your own code (or even write tests for other peoples code) is a very valuable skill.

Many companies take tests very seriously, and some will not tell you that they expect tests for your coding challenge, but will automatically reject you if you leave them out. Therefore, my recommendation is to write tests no matter what when given a take-home challenge. Not only will it make you a better developer, but for companies that were not expecting tests, you will stand out even more!

So, youve planned out your app on a high level and thought through architectural and design details and now you are ready to start working. How do you go about writing a test plan? Heres my 80/20 suggestion for how to come up with the right test cases:

1. Test the happy path

For my Tic Tac Toe app, the happy path is starting with an empty board and playing a game until X wins.

2. Think about variations on the happy path

A variation on the happy path would be if O wins or if there is a tie game.

3. Think of edge cases

An edge case would be if a player tries to play a move in the same square more than once.

4. Test anything that is complex

The algorithm to find the winner is the most complex part of this app.

Heres my sample test plan:

- Test that the initial state of the board is correct (i.e. board is visible and empty) - Test that a move can be played - Test that moves alternate between X and O - Test that a move can be played to a square only once - Test that a winner can be found in a row - Test that a winner can be found in a column - Test that a winner can be found in a diagonal - Test that a draw can be found

Tests are also great because once youve written one, you can often use that as the base for your next one. In the code below, I first test that a move can be played in my Tic Tac Toe game, then I check that a move can be played in the same square only once. To write the second test, I simply started with the code for the first test and added to it to test for that specific case. This makes writing tests super fast, as once youve figured out the first test you can use that as a base for your remaining tests.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 it ( 'plays a move' , () => { const board = mount ( < Board /> ); expect ( board . find ( '.square' )). toHaveLength ( 9 ); expect ( board . state (). turns ). toEqual ( 1 ); const squares = board . find ( '.square' ); squares . at ( 0 ). simulate ( 'click' ); expect ( board . state (). turns ). toEqual ( 2 ); expect ( squares . at ( 0 ). text ()). toEqual ( 'X' ); }); it ( 'plays a move to the same square only once' , () => { const board = mount ( < Board /> ); expect ( board . find ( '.square' )). toHaveLength ( 9 ); expect ( board . state (). turns ). toEqual ( 1 ); const squares = board . find ( '.square' ); squares . at ( 0 ). simulate ( 'click' ); expect ( board . state (). turns ). toEqual ( 2 ); expect ( squares . at ( 0 ). text ()). toEqual ( 'X' ); squares . at ( 0 ). simulate ( 'click' ); expect ( board . state (). turns ). toEqual ( 2 ); expect ( squares . at ( 0 ). text ()). toEqual ( 'X' ); });

Youll notice that this strategy produces duplicate code. I specifically chose not to DRY up the code here for the sake of readability, but tests can also present a great opportunity for refactoring. So, now its your turn. Think about your app and, as a baseline, think of 5-10 tests that you can write.

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7. How to unlock your debugging superpower

One of the most important skills as a developer is looking up documentation and finding solutions to tricky problems. Like any skill, this is something that you can improve with practice. In this section, Ill walk you through 5 tips for taking advantage of the wealth of information online while working on your challenge.

Here are my 5 tips:

1. Read the docs

2. Follow best practices

3. Search with keywords

4. Pay attention to the details

5. Speed up your trial and error feedback loop

1. Read the docs

This may seem obvious, but reading the docs is so important! Documentation is the first place you should look when trying to answer any question. I like to say that programming is mostly reading with a little bit of writing mixed in.

And when I say read them, I mean it! Dont just skim them. As developers, we are often in a hurry to build things and solve problems, but this usually results in misunderstandings and miscommunications. If you spend the time to thoroughly read documentation up front, youll better understand and internalize how the technology works. This doesnt mean you have to read the entire documentation cover to cover before you start programming, but find and read the sections that are relevant to what youre working on.

Because I used create-react-app to setup my Tic Tac Toe app, the create-react-app docs were the first place I looked when I started setting up tests. I searched for testing within the first page of the docs using cmd + F and found a link to more specific testing docs.

2. Follow best practices

When you read the docs, pay attention to the best practices. Best practices are called best for a reason - they are usually created and put in place by the people whove built and know the most about the technology, and are suitable for most use cases. Also, following best practices ensures that troubleshooting problems you encounter will be easier because other developers have likely run into those same problems already.

For my Tic Tac Toe app, I used create-react-apps suggested testing setup: Jest, Enzyme and jsdom. I managed to get Jest and Enzyme set up fairly easily, but when it came time to write and debug tests, jsdom was new to me. Most of my front-end testing experience has involved running tests through selenium, which opens a browser and allows you to watch the tests running.

Jsdom is a headless browser implemented completely in Javascript, so it functions slightly differently. I found that putting a debugger in a test would not just stop the test as I was used to, and I needed to do some searching to figure out how to do that. It was a fairly painless process, due to the fact that many other developers had encountered a similar question.

3. Search with keywords

This brings me to the importance of searching well. Using the right keywords and getting specific can make or break your ability to find the information you need when working to solve a problem.

For example, these three searches yield very different results using Google:

How to use the debugger

How to use the javascript debugger

How to use the javascript debugger with jsdom

As expected, the results start more broadly and then narrow down as I add more detailed keywords. For the first search, the first result is a post from drjava.org, which is far from what Im looking for. For the second search, the first result is specifically about javascript debugging - Im getting warmer. For the third search, the first result is actually the jsdom docs, which hammers home the point that you can find almost everything you need in the docs! Feel free to try those searches yourself to see the difference in results.

Overall, remember to be specific in your searches. Is it possible to be too specific? Actually, yes! Sometimes when you get application errors, there will be pieces of those errors related to your app, like a variable name or a stack trace. In those cases, youll get the best results by removing the specifics and searching for the more general error message.

4. Pay attention to the details

In the same way that getting specific helps you in searching, paying attention to the smallest details will take you far as youre working to solve problems. Sometimes the tiniest change will make the biggest impact!

For example, as I was trying to get a debugger working with jsdom, I found this Github issue with Jest. When I find a GitHub issue that might be useful, I usually scroll down to the bottom to see the most recent comments, since those are often the most relevant. Reading through starting from the bottom, I found that someone else was using create-react-app, and had added a couple of flags to their test script. I tried adding these to my app, and voila, my tests ran with a note that the debugger was listening.

5. Speed up your trial and error feedback loop

When youre debugging something, its important to pinpoint exactly what you are trying to solve in order to search most effectively. It can be easy to get caught in an infinite loop of StackOverflow posts or go down rabbit holes that end up having nothing to do with what youre debugging. Reading error messages carefully comes into play here.

For example, as I was writing my first test for my Tic Tac Toe app, I tried to write an expect statement, and got the following error:

FAIL src/App.test.js  plays a move TypeError: expect(...).length is not a function at Object.<anonymous>.it (src/App.test.js:35:33) at new Promise (<anonymous>)

Reading the error message, I could see that .length was not the correct function for my expect statement. The first line in the stack trace also points to exactly what line and character are causing the error. So, armed with this info and a working debugger with jsdom, I was able to stop my test just before this expect statement and play around in the console until I found the correct syntax.

First, I was able to see that my board had mounted, and the squares were there. When I typed board.find('.square').length , the result was 9 . So, now it seemed like my expect statement was just written incorrectly.

I then searched for enzyme length , which took me back to the enzyme docs where I found an example expect statement with length:

expect(wrapper.find(Foo)).to.have.length(3);

I tried this in the console, but got another error:

Uncaught TypeError: Cannot read property 'have' of undefined

This confirmed that it didnt like the .to .

Remembering that I was not only using Enzyme, but also using Jest, I googled jest-enzyme length . I then found this hackernoon articlewith an example expect statement that looked like this:

expect(wrapper.find('.ReactCodeMirror')).toHaveLength(0);

When I tried this syntax in my console, there was no error, so I updated my code and re-ran the test. AND IT PASSED!

Stopping your code right before an error is occurring and being able to test different ideas at that exact point in the code will allow you to debug more seamlessly and prevent you from going down one of those rabbit holes.

Though I often use a combination of documentation, GitHub issues, and StackOverflow to answer questions, there are tons of other great resources available like blog posts and tutorials. Figure out your learning style and find what works best for you. If you find a resource that isnt approachable because it assumes too much knowledge, keep searching until you find one that makes sense to you. The beauty of the internet is the sheer number of resources available.

Now that youre armed with the tools to solve any problem you run into, its time to focus on making your coding challenge work!

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8. Make it work, then make it pretty, then make it fast

The title of this section sums it up pretty well, but when youre working on building out your challenge, you should follow these 3 steps IN THIS ORDER:

1. Make it work

2. Make it pretty

3. Make it fast

1. Make it work

Of all of the sections in this guide, this is one of the most important ones, so pay close attention. When youre given a take-home coding challenge, no matter what you do, the most crucial part of the challenge is to make it work. If you submit an app that has a nice UI, that will not matter if your app does not work or meet all of the requirements. Because building features to spec is a key aspect of your future job as a developer, you first and foremost need to focus on the functionality of your app and prioritize that above all else.

This is also key if you are low on or run out of time. Coding challenges can be a lot of work, especially if you want to go above and beyond to ensure that you make it to the next interview round. But, I can guarantee that you will not make it to the next round if your app doesnt function properly or is missing some key components. So, if youre building a front-end app, this means focusing on making it work first, and styling/UI last. If you are building a back-end or full-stack app, focus on making it work before trying to refactor your code into the most elegant solution, and only then worry about optimization.

Even if you end up without any time to go back and refactor your code or style your UI, having a working app to present is more important. You can always talk to the interviewer about how you would improve your app and refactoring some of your code might even be part of the next round of interviewing.

2. Make it pretty

Make it pretty has two interpretations here. One is making the code pretty and the other is making the UI pretty. Making the code pretty can be done in several ways. First, ensure indentation is consistent and your code is readable. Second, if you got something to work in a quick, hacky way, think about how you can refactor it to be a more elegant solution without overcomplicating it. For example, are you using a for loop when you could be using map ?

If youre doing a front-end or full-stack challenge, you can also make the UI pretty as part of this step. Whether you use a library or write your own custom styles for your app, making the UI look good will show your interviewer that youre taking the user experience into consideration when building a feature. For some more front-end focused challenges, youll be given a specific mockup to match. In these cases, making sure youre detail oriented down to the last pixel is incredibly important. Part of your role may involve translating mockups from designers into user interfaces, so companies want to get a sense of how you approach those types of tasks.

3. Make it fast

Once youve made your app work, made it pretty (in the code, UI or both), it may be time to make it fast! This is where understanding performance and BigO notation comes in handy. You should take a look at your code and see if there are any areas where increasing the scale might be an issue. For example, are you using a double for loop somewhere? What if the arrays youre looping over become super long? If you think about these kinds of edge cases, you can then come up with plan to improve your code. Taking something that would have been running O(n) and making it O(1) or O(logn) will show that youre thinking about performance when youre building things.

If you do run out of time, and you arent able to complete all of the requirements, or you generally have some ideas for how to improve your app, see the FAQ section at the end of the guide for how to handle those cases.

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9. How to make your code shine

When given a take-home coding challenge, many people think about how to build an app that works, but stop there. In this section, Ill go over things an interviewer/engineer reviewing your code will look for, so you can take your challenge to the next level and make your code shine.

When an engineer is reviewing your code, they will look for several different things. They will likely try to run the app to play around with it and see it working. If youve deployed it (using something like Heroku), thats great, otherwise they will try to run it locally. After that, they will delve into the actual code, looking to see how you organized your app architecture and reading code in individual files.

There are several things you can do to make your code stand out. You want your code to be:

Readable

Easy to follow

Well organized

Clean (properly indented, free of syntax errors and unnecessary whitespace)

If you pay attention to these key details as you work, you:

Will be able to better understand your own code later

Will show that you are an engineer who takes pride in the craft of code, and people will want to work with you

Will become a better engineer

Wont have to spend a ton of time at the end cleaning things up

These are the basics that dont take much effort outside of mindfulness to get right. Now lets talk about 3 of the more evolved code style considerations:

1. How to name things (the second hardest problem in programming)

2. How to use comments effectively

3. How to format your code as you write it

1. How to name things (the second hardest problem in programming)

Naming is one of the hardest problems in programming. When I first started in my front-end development role after leaving General Assemblys bootcamp, I often struggled to name variables, functions and CSS classes. Over time, I learned how to avoid spending too much mental energy coming up with names. Heres what Ive learned:

One of the keys to naming things is to make sure youre naming them in a way that another developer who is unfamiliar with the code can easily jump in and understand. Many people have heard stories about weird naming conventions from original source code. Sometimes people even name things they build after themselves. (This is the worst, and everyone who encounters your code in the future will hate you, so please dont do this!)

One way you can think about naming is very literally. For example, in my Tic Tac Toe app, I simply named my CSS classes after the components: board, row, and square. For more advanced techniques for class names, check out BEM.

For functions, the same rule applies. Think about what exactly the function is doing (and, while youre at it, do your best to make sure your functions are only doing one thing, as this helps with naming and general readability). Is the function checking whether there is a winner on a row of a Tic Tac Toe board? Then a great name would be checkRow . Is your function handling a click on a square of the Tic Tac Toe board? Then a great name would be handleClick .

Now you can start to see a pattern forming! Thinking about your code this way will not only make it easier for you to understand later (when you have to explain it to another developer), but it will also make it easier for the person reviewing your code to understand it and even enjoy reading it.

Naming Examples

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 _checkWinner ( board ) { let diagWinner = this . _checkLeftDiagonal ( board ) || this . _checkRightDiagonal ( board ); return this . _checkRows ( board ) || this . _checkColumns ( board ) || diagWinner ; } _resetBoard () { this . setState ( this . _getInitialState ()); } _getCurrentPlayer ( state ) { return state . turns % 2 === 0 ? 'O' : 'X' ; } _getInitialState () { return { board : [[ '' , '' , '' ], [ '' , '' , '' ], [ '' , '' , '' ]], turns : 1 , winner : '' } }

One quick tip: if you find yourself losing your flow because you keep stopping to think of the perfect name, split your process into two steps. First, write working code with any names (yes, even foo , bar , and baz are ok). Then take a second pass through to improve them.

Adding comments can be a great way to capture what you were thinking at the time you wrote a specific piece of code. This can be incredibly useful to you, or anyone else who comes across your code in the future and needs to understand it, tweak it, or rewrite it.

Think of comments as adding clarity to your code. For larger scale projects and production apps, there are even frameworks that give you the ability to compile the comments in your code into documentation - this is extremely useful because when your documentation and your code live in the same place they are much less likely to get out of sync as when they are two completely separate resources to update.

But, pay attention, because there is such a thing as too many comments. I remember on one of the very first coding challenges I got, I wrote so many commentsthere were almost as many lines of comments as there were code! If youre using one of the documentation tools I described above, that can be ok, but otherwise, youll want to adhere to the less is more strategy.

Here is where you most likely do not need comments:

When you declare a variable

When you declare a function

Dont do this:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 // Initialize campaigns $scope . campaigns = []; // Reset function to clear search form after submit var clearSearchForm = function () { $scope . campaignUrl = "" ; }; // Define addCampaign function $scope . addCampaign = function () { ... }

The variable or function name should be enough to explain exactly what it does. If you need a comment to explain it, then you need to give it a better name!

Here are some examples of where comments can be useful:

HTML

CSS

Technically tricky lines of code

References to documentation/StackOverflow

First, lets talk about HTML. Markup seems pretty self-explanatory, right? So, why would you need comments? Lets say you have a really long HTML file with A LOT of <div> s. Comments can be a good way to signal which </div> tags close which sections.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 <div class= "container" > <div class= "row" > <div> <div> <p> Look at all of these nested divs... </p> <p> There are so many that I can't keep track! </p> </div> <!-- close 4th div --> </div> <!-- close 3rd div --> </div> <!-- close 2nd div --> </div> <!-- close 1st div -->

In CSS, comments are a good way to divide up your styles if you have a lot of styles in one file. This way, when you come back to the code later and want to make a change, its easier to find the styles for that one section you need to update.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 /* ROW STYLES */ .row { display : block ; } .row :not ( first-child ) { margin-top : -4px ; /* display: inline-block fix */ } .row :nth-child ( 1 ) .square { border-top : none ; } .row :nth-child ( 3 ) .square { border-bottom : none ; } /* SQUARE STYLES */ .square { display : inline-block ; width : 20vmin ; height : 20vmin ; border : 1vmin solid black ; overflow : hidden ; } .square :nth-child ( 1 ) { border-left : none ; } .square :nth-child ( 3 ) { border-right : none ; }

Comments in CSS are also very useful whenever you are hard-coding any math or adding an arbitrary number of pixels as margin, padding etc. For example, you might know that your site header is exactly 104px tall, but someone newer to your codebase might wonder why you have 104px of margin-top on an element. Comments can be useful to explain things like this that are specific to your application.

Also, comments can really come in handy when using z-index to adjust placement of elements below or on top of each other. For example, if you have a modal that you need to show and hide by adjusting the z-index, it can be good to include comments.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 /* LIGHTBOX STYLES */ .overlay { display : none ; top : 8px ; left : 8px ; width : 100% ; height : 100% ; z-index : 1001 ; /* overlay covers the entire browser window */ -moz-opacity : 0.5 ; opacity : .50 ; filter : alpha ( opacity = 50 ); } .white_content { display : none ; position : fixed ; top : 20% ; left : 34% ; width : 30% ; height : 60% ; padding : 16px ; border : 5px solid grey ; background-color : white ; z-index : 1002 ; /* white content sits on top of overlay */ overflow : auto ; text-align : center ; }

One of the best uses for comments is when youve written code that is technically difficult or just not intuitive. You should always strive for simple, understandable code as much as possible. However, sometimes you will have confusing code - maybe youve chained a bunch of methods together or are using a complex regular expression - and it would help to explain what is happening in a comment. For example, I dont hesitate to include comments when writing Javascript to show or hide an element based on page scroll location because doing math with element heights never reads very clearly.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 /* This function takes an integer and returns a * string representation with commas for every group of 3 digits. * See this StackOverflow post for an explanation: * https://goo.gl/gfe1H7 */ var addCommas = function ( number ) { return number . toString (). replace ( / \B(?=(?:\d{3}) + (?!\d)) /g , "," ); }

One more case where comments can be useful is when a link to an online reference improves code understanding. As Ive already mentioned, avoid copying code directly from StackOverflow or similar sources - instead these resources as a starting point for writing your own code, and link back to the original source in a comment. Heres an example of where I did this for the vanilla Javascript challenge I described earlier:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 /* Execute JSONP API call with hashtag * Inspired by this stack overflow post: * http://stackoverflow.com/a/13045312/4765678 */ var jsonp = function ( src , options ) { var callbackName = options . callbackName , onSuccess = options . onSuccess , onTimeout = options . onTimeout , timeout = options . timeout ; // Create timeout trigger that handles API not returning data var timeoutTrigger = window . setTimeout ( function () { window [ callbackName ] = function () {}; onTimeout (); }, timeout * 1000 ); // If API returns data, process data but do not run timeout // trigger window [ callbackName ] = function ( data ) { window . clearTimeout ( timeoutTrigger ); onSuccess ( data ); } // Create script element on page to run API call var script = document . createElement ( "script" ); script . type = "text/javascript" ; script . async = true ; script . src = src ; // Append script to head document . getElementsByTagName ( "head" )[ 0 ]. appendChild ( script ); };

You are almost done learning how to make your code shine! Just one more step.

3. How to format your code as you write it

Im a STICKLER about formatting when it comes to code. I liken properly indented and well formatted code to having a clean room. Though I was never good about actually keeping my room clean as a kid (seriously, just ask my mom), now I prefer things to be tidy and in order, especially with code.

And, its not just me. Youll find that the best engineers also care about well-formatted, clean code. Why? First, its much easier to read! Coding can be really challenging, so when code is easier to read, it makes our jobs as developers that much easier. Also, writing clean code sends a message to your interviewers that you take pride in the craft of writing code, and for many teams, this is a big deal.

So, how do you make sure the code style sticklers will approve of your code? There are a few simple tricks you can use as youre working through your coding challenge to ensure the end result comes out clean and you dont have to spend time at the end reformatting everything.

Choose tabs or spaces and be consistent across your entire application (i.e. no 2 spaces in some files, 4 spaces in others)

Indent your code properly as you go so that it stays readable and isnt all over the place

Get rid of trailing whitespace! Whitespace can sometimes wreck havoc, so its best to just get rid of it as you write your code. There is a plugin for Sublime Text, my editor of choice, that makes this easy, and there are plugins for most other text editors.

Keep your syntax consistent throughout your entire app. If youre using a linter, this will be easier, but requires setting one up. If you dont have time to set one up, pay attention. Dont use ES5 in some places in your app and ES6 in others. Pick one and stick with it!

Remove unnecessary logging and debug statements when youre done using them! Unless logging is part of your application, youll want to remove any temporary statements you were using while building your app.

Always leave a newline at the end of every file.

Thats it! Its pretty simple, and once youre in the habit of doing this, not only will your code be easier for you to read, but it will also be easier for others to read and maintain. Many new developers havent been exposed to very much code maintenance, but trust me, when you have to clean up code someone else has written, you will be more thankful if it was neatly organized to start. Pay it forward!

Heres an example of badly formatted code:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 render () { let rows = this . state . board . map (( rowContent , id ) => ( < Row id = { id } rowContent = { rowContent } onClick = { this . _handleClick . bind ( this )} / > )); let message = this . _getMessage ( this . state ); return ( < div > < button onClick = { this . _resetBoard . bind ( this )} className = "reset" > RESET < /button > < div className = "message" > { message } < /div > < div className = "board" > { rows } < /div > < /div> ) ; }

Heres an example of the same code, but cleanly formatted and MUCH more readable:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 render () { let rows = this . state . board . map (( rowContent , id ) => ( < Row id = { id } rowContent = { rowContent } onClick = { this . _handleClick . bind ( this )} / > )); let message = this . _getMessage ( this . state ); return ( < div > < button onClick = { this . _resetBoard . bind ( this )} className = "reset" > RESET < /button > < div className = "message" > { message } < /div > < div className = "board" > { rows } < /div > < /div > ); }

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10. How to take your challenge to the next level

If youve made it to this section of the guide, congratulations! Youve come up with an overall plan for your app, youve written a test plan and actual tests, and youve met all of the basic requirements of your challenge while also ensuring that your code is shiny and clean. So whats next?

Since this is The Ultimate Guide to Kicking Ass on a Take-home Coding Challenges, it would not be complete without explaining how you can go above and beyond. If youve gone through this guide and implemented my suggestions so far, youre in a great place. However, in the interview process, you rarely know how many other applicants youre competing with. Maybe theres a more experienced candidate, and they were given the exact same challenge to complete. How do you ensure that youre the top choice out of all of the candidates in the applicant pool?

The short answer is by going above and beyond. When you put a massive amount of effort into your challenge, its a high competence trigger because it shows that you are willing to go all in on everything that you do. What company wouldnt want to hire someone who puts this much effort into their work? Youll be sure to stand out from the other applicants and maximize your chances of moving on to the next interview round.

Here are 4 ideas for how you can take your coding challenge to the next level:

1. Bonuses

2. UI/UX design (for front-end or full-stack challenges)

3. Data validation and error handling (for any type of challenge)

4. Commit history

1. Bonuses

Not all coding challenges come with bonuses, but if yours does and your goal is to get a job offer, do them! Why? Its pretty simple. If you go above and beyond in your coding challenge, it will show that you will go above and beyond once youre hired at this company. Completing bonus requirements (or at least taking a shot at them) is a high competence trigger for the interviewer.

One time I was given a challenge that listed 5 bonuses in addition to the base challenge. I was really excited about the company, so I made it my goal to complete all of the bonuses for the challenge. The extra time I needed to complete them was definitely well spent - not only did I learn a ton, but I also ended up with a fantastic offer from the company at the end of several rounds of interviewing.

Here are the bonuses from my Tic Tac Toe app:

Make Board Responsive

Add additional boards

2. UI/UX design (for front-end or full-stack challenges)

Some front-end or full-stack challenges will mention UI/UX design as a bonus, but if they dont, putting in some effort to make the UI look nice and be easy to use will go a long way. You can either go the route of adding your own custom CSS or plugging in a library or two to help make your styling even more painless. If you use a library, again, just make sure that you understand how it works enough to explain how youve used it.

Examples:

For one company, I was tasked with implementing a simple drag and drop UI with a grid of boxes. I gave the challenge a little extra detail by doing two things. First, I added the brands color as a prominent part of the design. Second, as part of a requirement for the challenge, the boxes had to have unique identifiers to make it clear that the drag and drop functionality worked correctly. I added the letters of the company name into each box and for duplicate letters, I inverted the color scheme. Adding these extra details gave me an edge in the interview process and made my application stand out.

For a full-stack challenge I received, after implementing the base functionality, I styled the main page to mimic styling I found on the companys production site. In my interview, the engineers told me that they appreciated that I made the extra effort to style my app just like theirs.

As you can see, adding these thoughtful details can really make an impact and put your challenge over the top. So, spend a little time thinking about small details that you can add to personalize your challenge based on the company. It will make it clear that youve done your research and engineers reviewing your code will notice!

3. Data validation and error handling (for any type of challenge)

Data validation and error handling are key components in production apps. Adding either one of these (or both!) to your challenge will definitely make it stand out. Many developers who are new to coding and havent worked in a production codebase before dont have a ton of exposure to either of these, so if you add error handling for edge cases it will show that you thought through a lot of different situations. You can do this with built in tooling like Rails flash messaging or on your own using simple Javascript alerts.

Also, you might learn some regex in the process! If youre doing either client-side or server-side validation, regular expressions can be a great tool. My favorite resource for figuring out regular expressions is Regex 101.

Error Handling in Tic Tac Toe

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 _handleClick ( row , col ) { if ( this . state . winner ) { alert ( 'A winner has already been declared! Press reset to play again.' ) return ; } else if ( this . state . board [ row ][ col ] !== '' ) { alert ( 'A move has already been played in that square!' ) return ; } else { // increment turns this . setState ({ turns : this . state . turns + 1 }); // update the board let newBoard = this . state . board ; newBoard [ row ][ col ] = this . _getCurrentPlayer ( this . state ); this . setState ({ board : newBoard }); // check winner let winner = this . _checkWinner ( this . state . board ); this . setState ({ winner : winner }); } }

4. Commit History

Commit history isnt something that every reviewer will look at, but its another tool that you can use to showcase your craft. Always strive to write clear and concise commit messages because they are a way to communicate changes to other developers on your team or in a larger organization. They serve as additional documentation for the code itself.

I use git blame at work regularly and often Ill come across commits that were made by an engineer who is no longer working at the company. Reading their commit message gives me additional insight into the larger context of what they were working on when they made a specific change, which oftentimes will help me problem solve. So take pride in commit messages just like you do in code style. Here is a styleguide with examples of good vs. bad commit messages.

So now that you know how to write good commit messages, what story do you want them to tell? Breaking down large problems into small steps is a crucial part of being a top-performing engineer. If youre diligent about breaking your work up into small pieces, and you commit each small piece, you will show that youre capable of tackling large problems. Also, if you make a small change and break something in your app, its easy to investigate to see what you broke. However, if you make a bunch of changes and they are all rolled into one commit, it will be much harder for you to debug. As a rule of thumb, at the very least each task that youve previously planned should be its own commit.

Now that you know how to take your challenge to the next level, its time for a very important step: adding documentation!

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11. How to write a kick ass README

After youve taken your challenge to the next level following my advice in the previous section, you may be thinking, Great, now Im ready to send my coding challenge off! Not so fast! You may be done writing code, but youre not done writing yet - its time to write your README.

Why you should include a README

READMEs are incredibly important, both for professional developers and for job seekers working on take-home challenges. Including a README shows that you care about documentation. Why should you care about documentation? Documentation helps spread knowledge across teams and serves as a supplement to your code. Having documentation for your take-home challenge ensures that anyone else (or future you) can jump into your code with a clear understanding of what youve built without any guessing games. Your README is also the KEY to making sure that everyone reviewing your challenge has the most painless experience possible. Finally, your README is a way of proving to your reviewer that you successfully met the requirements of the challenge.

As someone who has reviewed many coding challenges, one of the most frustrating experiences has been when candidates submit their challenges with zero documentation on how to setup and run their apps. Every app is different, so even if you are using the companys specific technology, you might be running a different version, which can send the developer reviewing your app into environment HELL. If you waste their time with setup crap, you will definitely not be moving on to the next round of interviews.

So, how do you avoid this situation? Easy, write a kickass README.

How to write your README:

Writing a great README is not hard, and you will stand out a great deal from the other applicants with one. Here are the 5 sections Id recommend you include:

1. Installation instructions

2. Discussion of technologies used

3. A section demonstrating that you met the requirements

4. If there are bonuses, a section demonstrating that you met them

5. For algorithms and datastructures, time and space complexity

1. Installation instructions

Have you ever read documentation or tried to attempt a tutorial where the author has left out basic steps and youve ended up spending a long time debugging a problem? I have, and it makes me want to pull my hair out. You end up wasting time looking for one line of code to add or change or you spend forever trying to get your app started, only to realize that a script was missing, or you didnt realize you needed to install something. In these situations, the authors have usually made assumptions about the developers knowledge, which later ends up leading to frustration.

When writing your README, dont make any assumptions. Write out all of the steps to run your app locally and test them yourself. This includes cloning the repo from Github, running installation commands (like npm install or bundle install), and starting up a server. Also, make sure to include versions of software that you are using. This will ensure that the developer reviewing your code has a seamless experience setting up and running your app and if they do happen to run into any trouble due to versioning, they will have all of the information they need right there in the README.

2. Discussion of technologies used

This section is as simple as it sounds - make a list of all of the technologies you used including frameworks and libraries. If you had to find a library for a specific piece of functionality in your take-home challenge, mention it here and include a link to the docs.

3. A section demonstrating that you met the requirements

Usually your take-home challenge will come with some sort of requirements spec, so make sure to include a section in your README where you describe the requirements and how you met them. In some cases, you can take the product spec you were given and write a short explanation of how you met each requirement in a list. In other cases, you can simply include a short paragraph explaining how you satisfied the requirements. Its totally up to you how you do it, just make sure you include it.

4. If there are bonuses, a section demonstrating that you met them

Similar to the requirements section above, youll want to highlight any bonuses you completed while working on the take-home challenge. If you attempted a bonus, but couldnt quite get something to work, then the README is also a good place to address that. You can discuss the approach or approaches you tried and what worked or didnt work.

5. For algorithms and data structures, time and space complexity

If you had to write any algorithms or data structures as part of your take-home challenge, its helpful to include the space-time complexity of your final algorithm. This can be done in Big O notation - I personally like this cheat sheet for figuring out runtime.

One final word of advice: write your README in markdown so it looks nice! This will demonstrate that you know (or are willing to learn) another language that will come in handy as a full-time developer. If youre not familiar with markdown, you can learn the basics here.

Here is an example README for my Tic Tac Toe app:

# Tic Tac Toe By [ Jane Philipps ]( mailto:jane@fullstackinterviewing.com ) [ janephilipps.github.io ]( http://janephilipps.github.io ) ## Instructions 1. Navigate to [ repo ]( https://github.com/janephilipps/tic-tac-toe ) 2. Clone locally using `git clone git@github.com:janephilipps/tic-tac-toe.git` 3. Install dependencies using `npm install` 4. Run tests using `npm test` 5. Start your server using `npm start` 6. Navigate to app in [ browser ]( http://localhost:3000 ) 7. Enjoy! ## Discussion I used the following technologies: HTML, CSS, React, Jest, and Enzyme. I used [ create-react-app ]( https://goo.gl/26jfy4 ) to generate the scaffolding for this app. ## Requirements #### Build a two player tic tac toe app where a game is played by #### alternating clicks until the game is won by X, O or is a tie. I added a `message` that displays which player's turn it is based on the number of turns taken. The `message` also displays whether a player has won or if there is a tie. #### Include a reset button so that when a game ends, the board can be #### cleared and a new game can begin. The reset button calls a method `_resetBoard()` which calls another method `_getInitialState()` to reset the board. ## Bonuses! #### Make the board fully responsive I used the `vmin` unit of measure to make the `width`, `height` , and `border` of the squares fully responsive. #### Allow for more than 1 game to be played simultaneously I have a state within the `App` that keeps track of the number of boards. Because each board also has its own state, gameplay across multiple boards can happen simultaneously without interference.

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12. Final steps before you hit send

Ok, now that youve written your README, youre almost ready to hit send! Before you do that, take the time to double check all of your work using the following checklist:

Re-read the take-home challenge instructions to make sure you didnt miss any requirements

Review your apps code to ensure that it shines

Run your apps automated tests and make sure they are all passing

Test your app manually and make sure everything is working properly

Test your app installation instructions from your README

Start an email draft and copy your README into it for convenience

If requested, make sure to attach a zip file of your code

Write an email to your contact at the company

Your email can be short and sweet - I always like to highlight something I enjoyed about the challenge or something I learned. Heres an example:

Hi <NAME>, I hope you had a great week! I had fun diving back into React with this challenge. Here is my github repo and I've included my README below. Please let me know if you have any questions. Just so you know, I'm interviewing with a few other companies and I just received an offer yesterday - I need to get back to them next week. Of course, I am excited about the opportunity at <COMPANY NAME>, so I'm looking forward to hearing from you! Thanks, <NAME>

Now, finally, hit send!

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13. After you hit send: prepare to discuss your code

Youve finally sent off your completed coding challenge - congratulations! Youve worked hard to follow the steps in this guide, youve learned a ton in the process, and youre excited about the final product that you sent over to the company.

For most people, this is where the work ends. However, youre not quite done yet. What could possibly be left, you ask? Well, you need to prepare for your next steps of the interview process.

If youve followed the instructions in this guide, you have maximized your chances of moving on to the next interview round, which will often include discussing your project with engineers at the company. When this time comes, youll want to be prepared to talk about your code and to answer any questions. The worst thing would be to have put in all this work, only to botch the discussion portion.

So, how do you prepare? Here are the 3 key steps to take:

1. Reference your notes

2. Practice with a friend (or a rubber duck)

3. Be prepared to talk about any challenges, trade-offs, or possibly controversial decisions you made

1. Reference your notes

Remember earlier when you planned your project up front before writing any code? All of this planning will be a great resource for you in preparing for your next interview. In reviewing your notes, you should be able to see clearly what decisions you chose to make and why. If youve kept good notes during planning, youll be able to recall why you set up a database schema a certain way, why you built a UI a certain way, or why you made any other choice.

2. Practice with a friend (or a rubber duck)

Practicing answering questions about your app live with a friend, in front of a mirror, or with a rubber duck, will be a test run before the next step of your interview. Youll feel less nervous going into the interview having practiced explaining your code and youll be able to see what areas require extra practice.

First, come up with some sample questions that your friend can ask you. Then, think about how you would answer those questions - feel free to write down talking points. Then practice answering each question multiple times - with each practice session, try to reference your notes less and less. Also, ask your friend for feedback. Are you rambling? Are you not going into enough technical detail? Are you going into too much technical detail?

Here are some sample questions:

What did you find most challenging about the assignment?

What did you find most fun about the assignment?

Is there a specific section of the code that you are most proud of?

If you had more time, what features would you like to add to this app?

Why did you architect your app this way?

Why did you build your UI this way?

How could you scale or productionize this app?

Did any interesting bugs come up? How did you solve them?

3. Be prepared to talk about any challenges, trade-offs, or possibly controversial decisions you made

Finally, aside from the questions above, you should think about any parts of your challenge that you found especially difficult. Be prepared to discuss what problems you encountered and how you solved them. Remember, interviewers want to understand how you approach problems, not just the solutions you come up with.

If you made any trade-offs due to time constraints, think about how you can convey that to your interviewer. For example, if you ran out of time and could not complete part of the requirements, instead of saying I ran into trouble with styling and didnt have time to finish you can reframe it to say Given the time constraints of the challenge, I had to prioritize automated tests over styling.

Here is what I would say when asked about my Tic Tac Toe challenge:

One potentially controversial choice I made was to use the create-react-app generator for this challenge. I've worked with this generator before and this allowed me to save time in setting up the app the right way. The most difficult part of this take-home challenge was setting up testing with Jest. I had never worked with Jest before, but decided to use it because it was built into create-react-app. It was tricky because there was no visual component to the tests, and I had to do all of the debugging through the Chrome console. Usually when running front-end tests, I can stop the test in the browser and inspect elements to see why a test might be breaking. Not having the visual was difficult, but I learned how to use jsdom instead. One tradeoff I made was not DRYing up the tests. I decided that refactoring them to be less code would actually make them harder to read, so I traded off code succinctness for readability here.

Going back and referencing your notes, practicing with a friend, and getting prepared to discuss any challenges you faced while completing your take-home challenge will give you a huge leg up when you move on to the next interview round. The time you spend preparing AFTER youve completed and submitted your take-home challenge will be crucial to your continued success in the interview process, so DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP. It will be well worth it!

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14. Frequently Asked Questions

Ive put together a list of 8 frequently asked questions based on my experience with take-home challenges as well as suggestions from others. If you have any questions that arent addressed here, feel free to shoot meMikheil Saakashvili has been detained in Kiev - Press office reports - GeorgianJournalMicrosoft launcher for Android finally gets Cortana support News oi-Rohit Microsoft launcher version 4.6 can be downloaded free form Google Play Store

There's no shortage of third party launcher applications on Google Play Store. These smartly coded apps can completely revamp the look and feel of your phone's UI and can also add some extra features to enhance the overall functionality. Among the popular launcher apps such as Go launcher, Nova launcher, Apus launcher, etc., the Google Play Store also offers a launcher app from Microsoft. Yes, you heard it right. Known worldwide for its Windows products, Microsoft also has a launcher app for Android devices.

Until now, the app missed one important feature which can be used on Android devices. The launcher app from Microsoft has just received a major upgrade in the form of Cortana integration. Microsoft launcher version 4.6 now comes with 'Cortana' support for Android users and the voice assistant is capable of performing a number of tasks.

With Cortana on-board, Microsoft launcher on Android devices is capable of following functions.



Make a call, schedule meetings, change wallpaper, etc.

Continue on PC or read the headlines for you as you start your day

Command Cortana to send your pictures to your PC, sync Cortana reminder with Launcher To-Do

Use Cortana to facilitate your work: create/query/view your meetings, remind you the commitment in the email

Control phone's system setting through Cortana

As of now, Microsoft's virtual assistant Cortana is integrated on the launcher app in the U.S., Great Britain, Canada, Australia and China. We believe the support for more markets will follow soon.

Just to give you some insights on Microsoft launcher, you can access your calendar, documents, and recent activities in your personalized feed on the app. You can simply capture an image on your phone and see it instantly on your Windows PC or continue editing an Office 365 document on your PC by linking your phone with your Windows PC. Besides, you can search the web or your files, apps, docs, messages and web results using Microsoft Launcher's universal search bar. Moreover, with deep customization for gestures, you can double tap to lock your phone, swipe up for app drawer and do a lot more.

Now the question is, would you give Cortana a chance when Google Assistant is already active on your Android devices to take care of everything. The Windows maker's virtual assistant makes sense on Android devices only if the user is a die hard fan of Microsoft or is a loyal Window user who wants to extend the Windows functionality on Android devices. To find out how Microsoft launcher actually works on an Android device, we have downloaded the app on one of our Android device. Stay tuned for our experience with Microsoft launcher app.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow NotificationsWhatsApp UPI payment option goes live for Indian users News oi-Vishal India is amongst the first countries to get the new feature and will be available for all users in coming days.

WhatsApp, Facebook-owned messaging platform, has been the center of the buzz ever since the rumor mill churned out information about a new feature that would allow users to make payments through UPI method. The feature which was recently spotted on the Beta version has finally made its way to the app with the latest update.

India is amongst the first countries to get the new feature and will be available for all users in coming days. Although the feature has gone live, the iOS users will have to wait a little longer to transfer/receive money through WhatsApp, since it is only released for Android users.

Adding the new payment option to the app, WhatsApp is on its way to becoming something beyond just a messaging platform. WhatsApp will go head-to-head against the likes of already popular mobile wallets such as Paytm, Google Tez, Mobikwik, and others.

The new feature lets users transfer money directly through their bank accounts to their friend's account directly via the app. The app now offers a dedicated option for the UPI-based payment option. Unlike other mobile wallets, the new feature doesn't support payment option for merchants, and users can only make bank-to-bank transfers only.

To use this feature, both sender and receiver should have the updated version of WhatsApp, and more importantly, the WhatsApp number should be the same as linked to the bank account number.

To set up the Payments option, users can head to Setting > Payments, after the app is updated to the latest version. The feature also allows payments by going to chatbox of the contact and select the option to transfer money.

Once the setup is complete, the users get a message that reads "Send and receive money securely with UPI." To start receiving the money, users need to tap on the "Accept and Continue" button.

WhatsApp will allow users to choose from a list of over 70 banks, including major players such as ICICI, HDFC, SBI, and others. Users can also keep a track of the digital payment. The Payment history options lets you know whether the payment has reached receiver's account or not.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow NotificationsMicrosoft Surface beats Apple MacBook marginally in popularity: study News oi-Vishal microsoft's Surface lineup has surpassed Apple's devices both at home and offices.

Microsoft has been bragging about a new study these days that suggests the Surface lineup has surpassed Apple's devices both at home and offices, and employees actually prefer Windows devices over Apple's MacBooks and iPads.

A study conducted by Creative Strategies on a panel of 1,300 US consumers, shows no less than 72 percent of the users who make do with a Microsoft Surface actually want it as their personal device as well, compared to 65 percent in case of the Apple MacBook.

The survey also shows that the Surface Pro is the popular choice among the users who want to replace their laptops with 2-in-1 devices. The Surface Pro outclasses the Apple iPad by 11 percent.

The study also shows that most Surface users are proud to be seen using a Microsoft device. Up to 77 percent of the respondents said that they enjoy working on a surface device, while only 52 percent of them had the same opinion about Apple devices.

Furthermore, the study suggests that most employees who get a Surface model fell more cared about the device, compared to who receive the Apple MacBook. However, both devices are said to be on par when it comes to functionality.

"People who perceive the Surface as the leading notebook brand over Apple do so because they see it as the best implementation of Windows and Office," the study shows. "Employees who use Apple for work feel strongly that Surface devices have the best implementation of Windows 10."

According to the research, Microsoft's Surface lineup is the only "the only brand" that can go head-to-head with the Cupertino giant.

Microsoft concludes the post by recommending business leaders to buy the Surface models for their employees, explaining that most "will love the fact that you invested in them because there is a sense of pride that comes from owning a Surface."

Besides, Microsoft also recently announced the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Deep Neural Networks (DNN) to improve real-time language translation for Hindi, Bengali, and Tamil. As per Microsoft, the technology will help users in getting results that are more accurate and natural while surfing the internet across any website on the Microsoft Edge browser, on Bing search and Bing Translator website.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow NotificationsThese 7 Vivo smartphones will receive Android 8.0 Oreo News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Vivo X20, X20 Plus, X9s, X9s Plus, Xplay6, X9 and X9 Plus will get the Android Oreo update in the coming months.

All the smartphone OEMs are working towards rolling out the Android Oreo update to their smartphones. While some of them have rolled out the update already, it is mostly meant for the flagship models and not the devices in the other segments. Now, Vivo has come up with its plan for the Android 8.0 update revealing the names of the devices that will get the update and the schedule for the same.

Vivo has taken to its official forum to reveal the small list of Vivo smartphones those will get the Android 8.0 Oreo update. According to the same, the software engineers at the company have started working on the Oreo update based on Funtouch UI for the smartphones launched by Vivo. In the first phase, the update will be rolled out as a beta version to just one smartphone from the eligible devices list.

Well, the first Vivo smartphone to get the Oreo beta update is the Vivo X20 and, this beta update will be rolled out sometime in April 2018. After the successful testing, the other devices in the list revealed by the company will get the Oreo update. The list of Vivo smartphones that will receive a taste of Android 8.0 Oreo are,

Vivo X20

Vivo X20 Plus

Vivo X9s

Vivo X9s Plus

Vivo Xplay6

Vivo X9

Vivo X9 Plus

The upcoming version of the company's custom ROM, the Funtouch OS will have most features of the Android 8.0 Oreo update such as the updated notification panel, adaptive icons, picture-in-picture mode, the redesigned settings menu and more. For now, there is no word on when the update will be rolled out globally.

If the latest custom ROM is listed on the company's official website, then the Vivo smartphone users in the other markets outside China can also download the same and flash it on their smartphones so that their devices are updated to the latest Funtouch OS based on Android 8.0 Oreo.

Well, it is not surprising to see that the mid-range smartphones from Vivo aren't on the list as the company does not have a good track record of rolling out timely updates to its devices. We are not sure if there will be an improvement on this front this year but the same remains skeptical.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow NotificationsIndians used different technique to hunt buffalo in the mountainsIndia Signs 5 Agreements With UAE & 8 With Oman in PM's Middle East Visit Business oi-Olga

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to meet Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan signed 5 agreements with the country.

The two nations signed agreements related to the energy sector, railways, manpower and financial services which includes a historic pact awarding a consortium of Indian oil companies a 10% stake in offshore oil concession.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Indian Consortium (OVL, BPRL & IOCL) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) was signed for the acquisition of a 10% participating interest in the Abu Dhabi's offshore Lower Zakum Concession, a statement issued by the Indian embassy here said. The concession will be for 40 years from 2018 to 2057.

60% of the participating interest will be retained by ADNOC and remaining 30% will be awarded to other international oil companies, the statement said.

Under the MoU, both the sides will work to integrate their labour related e-platforms for ending the existing malpractices, combat trafficking and organise collaborative programs for education and awareness of contractual workers. An MoU for technical cooperation in railways was also signed between the two sides. The MoU aims at cooperation in infrastructure sector especially railways.

To deepen bilateral cooperation in the field of finance, an MoU between Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange was also signed to enhance cooperation between both the countries in the financial services industry. The MoU would facilitate investment in financial markets by investors from both the countries. An MoU between the government of Jammu and Kashmir and DP World was also signed to establish multi-modal logistics park and hub in Jammu comprising warehouses and specialised storage solutions.

After his UAE tour, PM Modi met Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said of Oman. The two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Omans Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation.

During his two-day visit, Modi will also meet Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said.

For investment related articles, business news and mutual fund advise Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 10:30 [IST]Partners in a now-closed Greenwich private-equity firm have been exonerated of charges that they committed federal securities fraud.

The case was brought by members of the Milstein family, which founded Burlington, a retailer formerly known as Burlington Coat Factory that has southwestern Connecticut locations in Danbury, Stamford and Stratford. Bain Capital acquired the retailer in 2006 for more than $2 billion, with the founding family making around $1.3 billion from the sale.

Last week, a district court judge in Connecticut dismissed the plaintiffs allegations that they were defrauded by Foundation Capital Partners LLC, citing defendants as Dean Barr, Joseph Meehan, Thomas Ward and Joseph Elmlinger.

Barr launched Foundation in 2009, with Meehan, according to The Wall Street Journal. Barr had previously worked in senior management positions at Citigroup Inc. and Deutsche Bank. The two founders were also married to sisters, according to court documents, and eventually developed a dysfunctional rift and animus  that would contribute to the firms strife, plaintiffs contended.

Foundation marketed itself as a firm that would invest in large and established hedge fund management companies. In 2014, members of the Milstein family invested $6.75 million in Foundations operations through an LLC called FIH.

By the time Foundation shuttered several years later, it had never closed a deal, according to The Journal. FIH sued Foundations partners, alleging its business was terminally flawed and the defendants had misrepresented Foundations prospects and management. FIH asked for its money back plus damages.

If found guilty, the defendants faced millions of dollars in penalties, as well as being barred from the securities industry, according to Meehans defense attorney Jonathan Whitcomb, of Diserio Martin OConnor & Castiglioni, which has offices in Stamford.

The case ultimately hinged on whether the court considered FIH to be a sophisticated investor with an ability to discern risky investments. The summary judgment cited numerous examples of the plaintiffs investment backgrounds and found that they should have had the ability to evaluate the merits and risks of any investment.

The sophisticated investor concept and its implications in legal disputes is an evolving area of law, Whitcomb said, adding, Its been around for a while, but its becoming more crystallized.

This story has been updated to correct the name of Whitcombs client.

Contact the writer at mbennett@greenwichtime.com; Twitter @Macaela_FAIRFIELD  Star gas station at 250 Jennings Road near Black Rock Turnpike was robbed at knifepoint Sunday night.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., Fairfield Police Lt. Bob Kalamaras said a white male suspect was inside the gas stations convenience mart when he pulled a knife and robbed the store, taking an undisclosed amount of cash.

Kalamaras said the suspect then fled on foot. No one was injured.

Police described the suspect as a white male, approximately 20 to 30 years of age, about six feet tall and wearing a gray hoodie sweatshirt.

kat.russell@stamfordadvocate.comSTAMFORD  Based on experience, Bob Kolenberg has every reason to tread carefully around wild birds.

A few months ago, Kolenberg was attacked by two menacing turkeys near his home. The duo was so relentless that he sought to escape in his car  and even then they didnt quit. Kolenberg, 55, said they pecked at the door until help arrived.

Im a big guy, Kolenberg said. These were two big male turkeys. It was a real fight.

This isnt a scene out of a horror movie about possessed poultry. Its what some residents in Turn of River-Newfield reported dealing with in August. Kolenbergs wife was also attacked while running.

These run-ins have given Bob Kolenbergs son, City Rep. Steve Kolenberg, insight into the mind of a wild turkey, which can weigh up to 30 pounds with a wing span of more than 4 feet.

Its kind of like Mad Max in turkey land, Steve Kolenberg told constituents at a panel last week that addressed these and other wild neighbors, including coyotes, foxes and bears. Turkeys live in a very strict, very brutal hierarchy. Theyre always pecking at each other and attacking each other.

While turkeys are known to chase humans  especially when theyre used to being fed by them  most local wildlife wont bother people, although small pets are sometimes at risk of becoming prey.

The most effective way of dealing with wildlife is understanding theyre not out to attack us and would rather peacefully co-exist. Hunting or trapping isnt often the answer, the panels experts said.

I view these animals as our neighbors, Steve Kolenberg said, and that shouldnt be our first response to conflict with neighbors.

In most cases, the wild animals that appear in your yard are harmless, said Laura Simon, president of the Connecticut Wildlife Rehabilitators Association.

I used to run a hotline and people would call and say, Theres a coyote eyeing me and my family. Hes in my backyard on a rock, Simon said. That coyote is probably lying there sunning himself, looking at the house. But the person perceived it as, This animal is eyeing me and my family to attack and kill us. People see something, interpret it and convey it to us, and often its not accurate.

Perceived as food

Simon and Annie Hornish, Connecticut director for the Human Society of the United States, fielded questions about the animals residents meet in their backyards and keeping their pets safe.

North Stamford resident Ryan LaRue was worried about walking his 75-pound dog at night.

You should be happily walking at night, Simon said. Coyotes are not looking to dogs as food, except small dogs during very distinct times of the year. But when they see you, a human, walking a dog, theyre not going to tangle with that.

Though residents in certain areas have reported their small dogs and outdoor cats being taken by coyotes, there have been no coyote attacks on residents, Animal Control Officer Tilford Cobb said.

Youve got to be careful with your animals and make sure theyre monitored while theyre outside, he said. You dont want to leave a small puppy out in the yard or an elderly small dog who could be perceived as food.

Coyotes in Connecticut weigh between 20 and 50 pounds. Most subsist on rodents and other small prey.

To scare them away, Cobb recommends making loud noises  banging on pots or using a whistle. For wild turkeys, opening and closing an umbrella, which they perceive as another turkey flapping its wings, can do the trick.

Dont let them think your yard is their domain Bob Kolenberg said. Ive seen plenty of coyotes  they never come near me. But turkeys will attack. It sounds funny, but they can really hurt you.

eskalka@stamfordadvocate.comGREENWICH  Sophomore Kate Murray will continue as a student at Sacred Heart Greenwich  with her Planned Parenthood sticker, her parents announced Monday.

The school has reversed their earlier decision and is allowing Kate to leave the sticker on her laptop, Kates mother Tracy Murray wrote in an email Monday. Kate has chosen to continue to display the sticker and is happy to remain a part of such a special community. We are moved by the outpouring of support by the alumnae and the community at large and are heartened by its encouragement of one young womans voice.

Kate Murray was told by administrators of the all-girls Catholic school last week that a Planned Parenthood sticker on her laptop would not be tolerated. She was given the choice of leaving the school immediately or leaving at the end of the academic year, if she kept the sticker on.

The decision drew fierce backlash from alumnae of the school, many of whom sent letters to the administration to express their dismay. More than 2,800 people signed an online petition supporting Kate, as of 4 p.m. Monday. The petition stated Unless Kate is allowed her freedom of speech, all of my future donations that would have been allocated to Sacred Heart Greenwich will now and forever be donated to Planned Parenthood.

The story, first reported by Greenwich Time, grabbed headlines online in the New York Times, Washington Post and USA Today, among others, including the Daily Mail and Independent in England.

In an Op-Ed published in Greenwich Time Sunday, Head of School Pamela Hayes suggested that expelling Kate was now out of the question.

We would never dismiss a student for what she believes or a cause she supports and will not now, Hayes wrote.

Sacred Heart discourages students from displaying political stickers, banners and buttons on campus and sometimes instructs students to take them down, Hayes wrote.

Some have misinterpreted our position as opposition to a specific organization or an attempt to shut down independent thinking on our campus, Hayes wrote. We believe that despite the powerful role these communications tools may play in the public square, their presence in a private educational environment can stifle learning and limit honest debate ... While, of course, not all messages on stickers are controversial or offensive, political, provocative or promotional displays can have unintended consequences in an academic setting.

Sacred Heart Greenwich did not have any new comment Monday, school officials said.

The Roman Catholic Church opposes abortion and artificial contraception. Planned Parenthood counts these among its health services, which include cancer screenings, pregnancy care and other womens health measures.

Bishop Frank Caggiano of the Diocese of Bridgeport consulted with Hayes on her decision to ask Kate to remove the sticker.

The Catholic Churchs opposition to abortion is almost universally understood, as is its consistent pro-life ethic, which defends the right to life of all those among us, particularly the most vulnerable in our society, the diocese said in a statement last week. As such the diocese fully supports the commitment of Head of School Pamela Hayes to affirm the Churchs teaching, while also recognizing and respecting the right of students to question and challenge as they grow in the learning process.

As a private school, Sacred Heart Greenwich has a right to regulate student expression on its grounds.

(The First Amendment) only limits what the government can and cannot do, said Daniel Klau, professor at the University of Connecticut School of Law, who studies the First Amendment. It is completely up to the private school to decide how much it wants to respect free expression by its students.

Nicole Narea, a Sacred Heart Greenwich alumna and legal and political journalist at Law360, said while she respects her alma maters legal right to limit student expression, she does not appreciate when that right is applied arbitrarily.

Pamela Juan Hayes touts school policy of being apolitical outside of the classroom, she wrote in an email Friday. Not only does that policy sound wildly unrealistic in 2018, but it has also been selectively enforced. There was a pro-life student club during my time there, and they went down to Washington, D.C. for yearly rallies. Fellow students had Obama campaign stickers on their laptops, but they were not ordered to remove them.

Alumna Kyra Baldwin, who graduated in 2013, said the schools pro-life club sometimes gave presentations at the schools morning meeting that included images of fetuses. She was disappointed when she and some classmates were blocked from starting a Gay Straight Alliance club at the school because the Diocese opposed it, she said.

We felt the existence of a pro-life club while there was no pro-choice club or GSA allowed was extremely hypocritical, especially when the pro-life club was so active, she said.

Sacred Heart Greenwich said Monday no pro-life club, pro-choice club or GSA currently exists on campus.

In theology class, Sacred Heart juniors debate abortion, euthanasia and the death penalty, Hayes said in her op-ed, calling that a far more rigorous and enriching exercise, we believe, than debating a slogan on a locker or laptop.

Sacred Heart Greenwich parents have shared many opinions over the schools handling of the sticker situation.

I support Planned Parenthood and the the amazing and necessary womens health services they provide, said Lesley King. And in addition I support a young womans right to have a strong opinion about any issue and express that with bumper stickers or slogans on clothing.

One mother, who requested anonymity so her daughter would not be retaliated against, said she plans to pull her daughter out of the school at the end of the year.

I dont want her there. We marched in the Womens March. We donate to Planned Parenthood, she said. She is in the school because we want her to be able to speak up.

Another mother, who also is an alumna, and who requested anonymity to protect her daughter, said she thought Kate Murray should have just taken off the sticker right away.

It is a Catholic school so these are the values that they feel they want to embrace, she said. I think this is sad that this is happening.

However, she noted that her daughter and other students support Kate and want her to be able to keep the sticker.

emunson@greenwichtime.com; Twitter: @emiliemunsonWeve all been there. You realize the role youre in is no longer working for you. You want to start looking for another job, but you dont feel like you can have an open, honest conversation with your manager without being let go. Weve all heard stories about colleagues who attempted to be honest with their boss about looking for other opportunities and were terminated because of that conversation.

At the handful of early-stage tech companies where Ive worked, Ive seen a negative cycle occur when it comes to employee termination and resignation. When an employee is dismissed by their employer, the employer only pays them through the end of the next pay period. Ive seen multiple women in their early 20s let go and given just two weeks of pay. They had student loans and little to no savings, and they were put in a very uncomfortable position.

Related: 3 Ways to Avoid a Nasty Breakup When Quitting Your Job

If its the employee who is quitting, the employee makes the decision that they want to leave, but instead of having an honest conversation with their boss about it, they lie. They spend 10 percent of their time interviewing -- weve all faked the doctors appointment -- and the employee ends up doing themselves a disservice by not spending an adequate amount of time looking for the next best opportunity. The employee can spend months in a disengaged state and then when they finally quit, they give two weeks notice, leaving their employer with an inadequate amount of time to properly backfill the position.

To solve for this, I put a policy in place at my company, Spotted, when we were very early stage and had only five or so employees. The policy outlined that if any of our employees decided that Spotted was no longer the place for them, or if I decided that for them, we would agree to have an open, honest conversation about it. They would get two months full pay where they could spend 50 percent of their time looking for another job. Furthermore, we would work together on crafting a shortlist of companies that they were most interested in, and I would help set up introductions for them and act as a positive reference.

Since we started this policy, there have been two people who have taken me up on this, and another eight employees who I had to transition out of the business. What this policy creates is an environment where the transition process becomes much less painful and more of an open environment where our employees feel comfortable talking to me about issues around culture, morale and communication.

The positive effects on the business arent just limited to conversations around termination; they permeate the day-to-day operations of the business. One of our most talented employees recently told me that about six months ago, she was wondering whether Spotted was going to be the place for her long-term. Instead of harboring those feelings and letting them worsen, she had four or five very open conversations with me about her frustrations working with certain team members, the projects she felt she wasnt succeeding at, the areas she wished she could spend more of her time on and some morale issues she was facing. We talked through these issues one by one and found ways to alleviate them. Now, she feels like Spotted is a place she can see herself at for a long time. Its these types of conversations that make this policy so worthwhile.

Related: 20 Crazy, Outrageous, Sad and Infamous Last Days at Work

I have brought this policy up in conversation with friends of mine who are senior executives at larger companies or CEOs of early-stage companies themselves. Their counter-argument to this policy is often That's a huge risk or They might steal trade secrets or information from your CRM or This is very expensive. I dont believe that any of these responses are warranted because, in my experience, this policy helps breed trust, honesty and loyalty.

By making it known that you, as their manager, have their best interest in mind, you create an environment where employer and employee have faith in one another. They are less likely to do something damaging to your firm. They are also more likely to work hard for those last few months they are working at your company. You are doing them a solid, and they are doing you one as well.

That being said, there are some basic rules of engagement to follow if you are going to adopt this policy:

If you sense that an employee is unhappy, bring it up proactively in a 1:1 setting. The more you do this, the more you will condition employees to have open and honest conversations with you. This policy wont be effective if you announce it on an employees first day and then forget about it until the day it needs to be used. You need to be a leader who genuinely has your employees best interests in mind. This means that you will sometimes need to have your employees best interest in mind ahead of your companys own best interest. I had an employee who would talk from time to time about regretting the fact that she didnt study pre-med in undergrad. She joined us one year after graduating from college, and, ultimately, she felt comfortable having an open conversation with me about wanting to do a post-baccalaureate program to fulfill her dream of going to med school. I told her that she should absolutely go ahead and do it. She was a critical part of our team, but the right thing to do was encourage her to pursue her dreams. Once you do have the conversation with the person about the two-month grace period, you need to have a clear plan for those last two months and outline exactly how you expect them to spend the 50 percent of their time on your business. You also have to let everyone at the company know that the two-month period has started so that others dont question why that person is coming and going throughout the work day.

Related: Your Next 'Rockstar' Employee Might Be a Former One

By creating an environment where leaders and employees are given the permission to have open, honest conversations about the company culture and work conditions, you will ultimately develop a workforce of people who will raise red flags earlier for you, who will make a real effort to help improve the culture on a day-to-day basis, and, in return, will feel secure and trusted. Its a win-win policy for all.

Related:

When an Employee Wants to Quit, You're Much Better Off Helping Him or Her Make the Transition

Building Your Personal Brand Where You Work

How Transparent Is Too Transparent?



Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved



This article originally appeared on entrepreneur.com

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HelpMagistrate challenges Newman for D.A. job

Mary Ann Hollocker

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Henderson County Magistrate Mary Ann Hollocker announced that she will seek the Republican nomination for District Attorney of Judicial District 42, which covers Henderson, Polk and Transylvania counties.

With over a decade working as a Deputy Prosecutor in Hawaii, Hollocker has a background in prosecution and criminal law. Prosecuting all types of offenses from traffic tickets to murder, Hollocker also handled her own appellate work and argued before the Hawaii Supreme Court.

In April of 2012, she relocated her family to Henderson County to be closer to her parents and to ensure her son, who was diagnosed with autism, received the services he needed. She was appointed to serve as a magistrate in 2014. Her strong knowledge of criminal law and procedure have earned her the respect of the legal and law enforcement communities, so much so that in 2016 she was reappointed to another four-year term.

Hollocker sees opportunities to make changes in the District Attorneys office. Currently assistant district attorneys are assigned to specific courthouses. Hollocker advocates for specialized assistant district attorneys to travel throughout the three counties dedicated to specific crimes. For example, teams might be focused on drug offenses, violent crimes, property crimes and domestic violence among others.

I would like to see specialized task forces consisting of Law Enforcement Officers and Assistant District Attorneys working together throughout the three counties on specific types of crimes, she said in a news release.

The citizens and victims of crime are entitled to strong representation from the District Attorneys office. I believe it is time for a positive change in our three counties and I am confident I can lead that charge.

Hollocker will face District Attorney Greg Newman, who is also a Republican, in the May 8 primary election.Friends of Laurel Park gift covers repair of historic wall

Mark Morse, vice president of Friends of Laurel Park and past Laurel Park Civic Association president; Friends of Laurel Park President Mindy Collins and Laurel Park Mayor Carey OCain celebrate completion of repairs of the historic rock wall on Laurel Pa

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Mark Morse, vice president of Friends of Laurel Park and past Laurel Park Civic Association president; Friends of Laurel Park President Mindy Collins and Laurel Park Mayor Carey OCain celebrated the completed repair work on the historic rock wall along Laurel Park Highway.

The Friends of Laurel Park covered the $7,300 contract with Jeff Cosgroves Southwind Landscaping Co. to repair and rebuild the historic Civilian Conservation Corps wall from Hebron Road to Echo Mountain Inn.

Its a beautiful thing, OCain said. We havent repaired that wall for 80 years. They had been put back together after a car ran into them by the maintenance crew but the maintenance crew are not professional stone layers.

Created at the start of President Franklin D. Roosevelts first term in March 1933, the CCC formed a peacetime army to battle against destruction and erosion of natural resources. At its peak enrollment, the New Deal agency deployed 505,782 single young man ages 17 to 25 throughout the country, according to research by Laurel Park Town Councilman Paul Hansen. CCC workers received $30 a month, $25 of which was sent home to families. The workers planted 3 billion trees, built thousands of miles of fire roads, erected 3,470 fire towers and protected 20 million acres from erosion. In North Carolina, 70,000 young men enrolled in the Civilian Conservation Corps, including 387 from Henderson County.

In this area, the agency had camps in Asheville, Black Mountain, Pisgah Forest, Brevard and Hendersonville. Besides the rock walls along Laurel Park Highway, CCC projects included picnic tables and outdoor fireplaces at Jump Off Rock.

The Friends of Laurel Park support of the towns effort to repair our CCC walls and memorialize them with historic markers assures that the trials, tribulations and efforts of the Greatest Generation will not be lost to history books, Hansen said.Ask Matt ... about 30-minute parking at night

House on Boyd Drive has lots of deck space.

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Q. If you drive down Boyd Drive in Flat Rock there is a weird shaped house under construction on the hillside. Whos building that home?

Well, for starters, the home has a name  Dovetail. The name comes from the dovetail pine wood that is used throughout the home which is the pride of Luke and Margaret Ann Hunter. The 1,600-square-foot structure at 107 Boyd Drive is within walking distance from the Flat Rock Playhouse and not far from where Luke Hunter grew up. He drew the plans for the unique one-story house. The estimated value is $200,000 and the builder is Todd Moss. We built it to fit the lot, said Hunter. Its a steep lot and we had to remove a lot of trees but its almost completely surrounded by decking. There are only two bedrooms, one on each end with a great room and kitchenette in the center. The rear deck of the bow-shaped house has a view of the Old Jerusalem Walk, a pathway that first brought settlers from South Carolina to Flat Rock. The Hunters will use the home mostly as rental property. Its designed to encourage the Flat Rock experience and will be primarily marketed to the parents of summer campers, Hunter said. Dovetail will be ready for occupancy in March.

Q. What is all that equipment being stored at the intersection of Howard Gap Road and Jackson Road, next to Fletcher Community Park?

That is the new staging area for Duke Energys 560-megawatt renovated power plant in Arden. Duke awarded the contract last year to CB&I (Chicago Bridge and Iron), a global company that specializes in gas, oil, energy and utility projects. CB&I has more than 125 years in the business. The project is well underway. They are hiring welders, crane operators, pipe fitters, and many more positions. The staging area should be active until the project is compete in the year 2020. I suspect that until then, you will see a lot of steel pipe lying on the ground.

Q. On a recent Sunday night I was downtown for dinner with friends. There were some empty 30 minute limit parking spaces on Main Street but we didnt want to add the price of a ticket to the dinner tab. Could we have parked there?

As they say in Minnesota  you betcha! The City of Hendersonville only enforces parking regulations from Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. With the big bucks you saved on not getting a ticket you can spring for dessert and a nice tip for your server.

* * * * *

Send questions to askmattm@gmail.com.Traffic at College Green, where trams, cars, buses, cyclists and pedestrians vie for space

Dublin Bus services through College Green are being delayed by up to seven minutes at peak times as buses, Luas Cross City trams, cyclists, cars and pedestrians all compete for road space.

Congestion in the city centre arising from the introduction of new tram services between St Stephen's Green and Broombridge has delayed bus services.

In some cases route changes have resulted in no improvement, Dublin Bus has confirmed.

Diverted

Although 17 services have been diverted away from Coll-ege Green in recent weeks in response to concerns about congestion, Dublin Bus said it had led to only limited improvement.

"Since early December, during the morning peak, our services through College Green were taking an additional one to three minutes," a spokesperson said.

"This increased by a further three to seven minutes in mid-January.

"After the route changes were implemented on January 29, some routes improved by up to four minutes in the area, while others have not improved."

The National Transport Authority (NTA) said it will consider banning taxis and diverting more bus routes after complaints since Luas Cross City opened in December.

A spokesman said the NTA would "look at everything" to ensure public transport services operated freely, which could include banning taxis from College Green.

Signalling systems are also being reviewed in the city centre following problems with a new 55-metre-long tram, one of which became stuck on O'Connell Bridge last week.

The NTA said it has been in continuing discussions with Dublin Bus and the city council about traffic arrangements since Christmas, but there are fears that gridlock will worsen when more of the longer trams enter service later this year.

"We would acknowledge there are issues and there is congestion, but it's a very complex set of junctions. We're looking at ways of mitigating congestion there," a spokesman said, adding that diversions to 17 bus routes introduced in recent weeks have had an impact.

Exacerbated

Asked if taxis could be banned, the spokesman said it was within the powers of Dublin City Council to do so, adding: "We will look at everything."

Some transport sources have suggested delays in developing the College Green Plaza, which would remove cars from the area, had exacerbated delays during peak times.

Others have noted that Luas Cross City was planned before the plaza was announced.

Dublin Bus said it was working with the NTA and Dublin City Council on solutions to alleviate the delays.A driver caught doing handbrake turns near a GAA club has been ordered to complete a driving awareness course.

Darren Cosgrove (21) ran from his car when he saw gardai approaching, but was arrested after a short chase, Tallaght District Court was told.

He pleaded guilty to careless driving and driving without insurance or a driving licence at St Mark's GAA Club, Cookstown Road, Tallaght, last September 24.

Cosgrove, of Kilmartin Ave-nue, Tallaght, was originally charged with dangerous driving, but Judge Patricia Mc- Namara accepted a plea to the lesser charge of careless driving.

Gda Paul Gilltrap said he was on patrol when gardai received a number of calls about a man who was driving erratically on the green area near St Mark's GAA club.

Gda Gilltrap went to the scene and found Cosgrove driving at speed on a green area and making handbrake turns.

Convictions

The officer said Cosgrove got out of the car and ran off, but was caught after a short chase.

The court heard that Cosgrove had three previous convictions, but none for road traffic matters. Defence solicitor Michael Hennessy said Cosgrove, a keen sportsman, has never held a driving licence but hoped to sit the theory test soon.

Mr Hennessy said Cosgrove had job prospects, but they were mobile in nature, and he would be asking the judge not to ban him from driving.

Mr Hennessy also handed a number of reference letters into court, which described Cosgrove as having a "fantastic personality".

Judge McNamara said Cosgrove's behaviour was foolish and he could have killed someone.

As a driver, "you never know when something unexpected will happen", she said

She ordered Cosgrove to complete the restorative justice driving awareness course and adjourned sentencing to May.Three and a half year old Benjamin Liu from Knocklyon fills his bucket with some fresh snow at Cruagh in the Dublin Mountains

Wrap up well and take an umbrella with you - more snow and wet weather are on their way.

As the country braces itself for torrential rain, snow and 110kph winds, Met Eireann has issued two yellow weather warnings.

The rain and wind warning runs from 5pm today until 6am tomorrow.

The snow and ice alert was put in place yesterday

"Wet and windy weather, with a risk of thundery downpours, will sweep eastwards over the country this evening," Met Eireann said.

Coast

"Gusts between 90kph and 110kph are likely to occur in Atlantic, southern and, later, eastern coastal fringes."

It said snow was also likely, mainly in parts of west Ulster and north Connacht.

Temperatures in Dublin are forecast to reach between 6C and 7C today, with strong south-westerly winds.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has advised drivers to "allow extra time for all journeys" and to beware of black ice.Mary Lou McDonald has been criticised for using the phrase "tiocfaidh ar la" to rally supporters as she assumed the leadership of Sinn Fein.

The Dublin Central TD took over unopposed from Gerry Adams on Saturday after his more than three decades in charge of the party.

She concluded her speech before more than 2,000 party faithful in the RDS by exclaiming: "Up the rebels, agus tiocfaidh ar la."

The phase, long associated with the Provisional IRA, means "our day will come".

Her remarks were criticised last night by politicians on both sides of the border, and her use of the divisive phrase arguably overshadowed parts of her address that spoke of the need for reconciliation.

Fianna Fail TD Darragh O'Brien said her words were "ill-judged" as sensitive talks continue to re-establish power- sharing with unionists in the North.

"Comments like that really hark back to a very dark time in the island's history when many people were murdered by the Provisional IRA," he added.

He argued that they are "very unhelpful" amid the ongoing negotiations in the North.

Former UUP leader Mike Nesbitt said unionists were dis- appointed by the speech because they had no high hopes for it.

However, he said it was "a missed opportunity to deliver change", adding that Ms McDonald spoke of fresh-thinking and bold ideas "but ended with the same, stale rhetoric".

Respecting

Last night, Sinn Fein said criticism of Ms McDonald's remarks was "nit-picking" and maintained it was "a tremendous speech".

A statement said that "any fair analysis" showed she spoke of "reaching out to our unionist neighbours and respecting each other's beliefs and traditions".

Ms McDonald said yesterday that she hopes the power-sharing institutions in the North can be re-established and thinks her party can do business with DUP leader Arlene Foster.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and British prime minister Theresa May will join the talks in Belfast today.

Ms McDonald did a series of broadcast interviews yesterday. Speaking on Sky News, she rejected suggestions that she will be Mr Adams' puppet and she also insisted that "the IRA has gone away".

"The war is over and Sinn Fein is a fully-formed, independent, democratic political party," she said.

She also took a swipe at Mr Varadkar, describing him as "smarmy".

The pair have previously clashed, with Mr Varadkar saying she is "cranky".

Ms McDonald referred to Mr Varadkar's penchant for novelty socks and his reference to the film Love Actually during his first visit to Downing Street last year.

"Leo is kind of smarmy," she said.Tributes have been paid to one of the country's most experienced criminal investigators, who was found dead at a Dublin garda station over the weekend.

Det Supt Colm Fox, who was the lead detective overseeing the Regency Hotel murder investigation, died in Ballymun Garda Station on Saturday night.

Gardai and the Garda Ombudsman (GSOC) have launched separate investigations, and his death is being treated as a personal tragedy.

The senior detective's official firearm was recovered at the scene.

Colleagues of the veteran officer have paid their respects, describing him as a "fully committed" investigator who was involved in some of the country's most high-profile murder inquiries.

These included the investigation into the murder of teenager Daniel McAnespie in 2010.

Daniel, who was in the care of the State at the time, was discovered in a drain in Rathfeigh, Co Meath, three months after being reported missing.

Det Supt Fox, who was then a detective inspector, led the investigation, which last year saw two men convicted in relation to Daniel's death.

Richard Dekker (31) was found guilty of Daniel's murder, while Trevor Noone (29) pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

Innocent

Det Supt Fox had been leading the investigation into David Byrne's murder at the Regency Hotel in February 2016, and the inquiry into the murder of two innocent people in Ballymun last year.

Mother-of-six Antoinette Corbally (48) and locksmith Clinton Shannon (30) were gunned down last August 16 on Balbutcher Drive.

Det Supt Fox spent the majority of his career in the Dublin region, but also served as a superintendent in Swinford, Co Mayo, and in several garda national units.

Supt Denis Ferry, the general secretary of the Association of Garda Superintendents, described Det Supt Fox as a "very capable" police officer and said the organisation was "shocked" by the news of his death.

"Our sympathies firstly go to Colm's wife, family and friends and the colleagues who have worked with him over the years," he said.

"He was a fully committed garda who worked in a number of stations in the Dublin Metropolitan Region, as well as the headquarters, and he was at the forefront of a number of high-profile cases.

Devastated

"We are absolutely shocked and devastated at his death. He was also very active with the association and will be greatly missed."

Fianna Fail councillor Daithi De Roiste, who is chair of the Joint Policing Committee, said: "This is a tragic loss. As chair of the JPC, my thoughts and prayers go out to the officer's family and friends and his colleagues at this time."

A garda spokeswoman said: "We are investigating the sudden death of a member at Bally- mun Garda Station at 9pm on Saturday evening.

"The Garda Ombudsman has also been informed. Foul play is not suspected."Last week, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) imposed a $21.17 million fine on Google for search bias and abuse of its dominant position. The Commission found that Google through its search design had placed its commercial flight search function at a prominent position on the search results page to the disadvantage of other businesses trying to gain market access. I was intrigued by this order because Google is not in the travel business, and I couldnt understand how its behaviour could be anti-competitive unless it was using its search engine to steal customers away from competitors.

I decided to try things out for myself. I typed flight into the Googles search box and scrolled through the results page. After the obligatory advertisements at the top, I noticed a box with a link to a page called Google Flights. When I clicked on it, I was taken to a new page packed with destination suggestions and best price offers. It even had a neat interface that allowed me to hover over a spot on the map and find out how much it would cost to fly there. I realised why this irritated vertical search engines.

But I still couldnt understand what was anti-competitive about all this. After all, if Google was going to use its search prowess to steal customers away, it needs to sell tickets. I couldnt imagine why a global search behemoth, whose business model was designed around a highly efficient but entirely automated ad auction platform, would want to have anything to do with a low-margin, high-touch business such as flight ticketing. So I decided to find out for myself and book a flight. I selected a destination, travel dates and flight options and looked at the options I was given.

The first option was to buy the ticket directly from the airline but every other option pointed me to various vertical search engines  taking me right back to where I started.

I was right. Google was not in the travel business. All it had done was devise a better, more intuitive way to organise search results in order to improve the user experience. Google Flight is not a new business vertical that books your tickets for you.

All it does is offer a price comparison accessible directly from the search page of all available flights to a given destination. This is exactly the sort of innovation that Internet companies should be encouraged to do: finding new ways to improve their offerings as long as they do not adversely affect the interests of customers or competitors. I cant see what is anti-competitive about that. After all, any customer who wants to book a flight from among the search results served up on the Google Flight page has to do so from the vertical search engines that were

complaining that they were being sidelined.

Its disappointing that CCI, which took such a progressive view in the recent Ola case, did not apply the same rationale to address these nuances in the Google decision. Competition laws may have been designed for the offline world but when we use it to regulate large online players, it is imperative that we reorient our thinking so that we can better address the challenges of the big data age.

Today, customers benefit from network effects. The larger an Internet company grows the better it can serve its customers by leveraging data at scale to offer features and services that are otherwise impossible to achieve. If competition law is to be deployed to the benefit of the end consumer, we must allow Internet companies to better leverage the advantages of scale. High market share and dominance are no longer antitrust concerns. What is important is the conduct of a dominant market player and whether it is using its dominance to stifle innovation and/or competition.

The dissenting opinion in the Google case seems to have held this view: they accused the majority of having woven a narrative of hypothetical anticompetitive foreclosure, referring to the extent to which the majority opinion has been based on the anticipation of harm without any evidence to that effect.

It is unfortunate for the evolution of Indian competition jurisprudence that they could not persuade the majority.

Rahul Matthan is Partner, Trilegal

The views expressed are personalA confluence of gaelic music and Indian ragas has enthralled the audience here and left them asking for more.

Yatra: Journey, a live music concert was organised by the British Council and Indian Museum in collaboration with Scotland arts centre An Lanntair to pay a tribute to Scottish army officer Colonel Colin Mackenzie, Debanjan Chakrabarti, the director of British Council East, told PTI.

Mackenzie had travelled from the Isle of Lewis in Scotland to Indian shores in 1783 to study about the culture and languages of the country. A group of musicians, led by tabla players Dalbir Singh Rattan, presented a diverse collection of musical scores at the hour-long concert.

The programme gave the audience an opportunity to travel through time, between countries and cultures, with live music and moving images at the backdrop, Chakrabarti said.

Sujoy Banerjee, an IT professional and an audience member, said the combination of Scottish scores and Indian classical music is a rare thing to come by. I loved the fusion of Santoor and Cello. I wish the show lasted longer, he said.

A special exhibition of Mackenzies collectibles was also arranged by the Indian Museum on this occasion.

Mackenzie had produced some of the first cartographic maps of South India. His collection provided the context and inspiration for creative collaborations between artists, writers and musicians, Chakrabarti said.

An army officer in the British East India Company, Mackenzie became the first Surveyor General of India in 1810.

Follow @htlifeandstyle for moreAlia Bhatt has jetted off to Bulgaria to prep for her upcoming film Brahmastra. Alia on Sunday took to her Instagram stories, where she shared a photograph of herself and captioned it: Bulgaria Calling. Brahmastra.

She later shared a view of the snow in Sofia, Bulgaria, from the aircraft and wrote: Winter is here.

The upcoming fantasy adventure trilogy titled Brahmastra is directed by Ayan Mukerji. It also stars Amitabh Bachchan and Ranbir Kapoor.

This will be the first time that Amitabh, Ranbir and Alia will be joining hands for a project.

The trilogys first part will release on Independence Day, August 15, 2019.

Follow @htshowbiz for moreValentines Day might be celebrated throughout the city with fervour, but it is a completely different (and crazy) deal when it comes to Delhi Universitys Hindu College. Every year on Valentines Day, Hindu College hostel students shortlist a hot Bollywood female actor, and worship her as the Damdami Mai next to the condom-adorned Virgin Tree. This, in hopes to increase their chances of scoring a date, finding their perfect partner, and well, not remaining a virgin anymore. This year though, the celebrations just seem to be getting bigger. Not only will the celebrations have actor Jacqueline Fernandez as Damdami Mai, but also actor Ranveer Singh as Love Guru a new introduction to the Pooja for the hopeful women devotees attending the pooja.

We mostly only choose a Damdami Mai every year, but this year we will also have a new introduction, a Love Guru  the male counterpart of the Damdami Mai. While the Damdami Mai is decided by the boys hostel, the Love Guru was chosen this year by the girls hostel, says Lalit Kumar, the president of the Hindu college hostel. Jacqueline Fernandez and Ranveer Singh were chosen because they are the hottest and the most in-demand stars right now. Something that makes them worthy of the status of Damdami Mai and Love Guru.

Shots from the previous years of the Damdami Mai pooja (HT Photo)

Lalit also adds that this year, they shall also have a special guest for the celebrations. Actor-filmmaker Nalin Singh, who has made a movie called My Virgin Diary which is inspired by the Virgin Tree itself. He is a Hindu college alumni himself and will be there at the pooja with us, says Kumar.

Actor-Filmmaker Nalin Singh will be the special guest at this years pooja. (HT Photo)

Its not only the students that are excited about the special guest, but Nalin Singh himself is pumped to be there. I have been an ex-president of the Hindu college hostel union and have organised the pooja myself too, in my time. My movie draws inspiration from my time in Hindu and the virgin tree, and it is going to be an extremely nostalgic feeling for me being there at the pooja this year, says Singh.

Follow @htshowbiz for more.Reserve Bank of India governor Urjit Patel told a House panel on Monday that the countrys central bank is not opposed to the Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance (FRDI) Bill, three months after it first expressed concern over several provisions of the legislation that envisages the creation of a new regulator whose responsibilities could overlap with those of the central bank.

Patel also supported the guarantee of Rs1 lakh to depositors under the bail-in provision and wanted to retain the public sector banks under the purview of the bill.

Finance minister Arun Jaitley told Rajya Sabha in January this year that the government is open to suggestions for hike in the limit of Rs 1 lakh. At the moment, security is up to Rs 1 lakh. But provisions of the bill give a flexibility and the governments intention is also to raise this amount, Jaitley told Rajya Sabha.

We are waiting for the recommendations of the Standing Committee. I am open to consider the suggestions in this regard, he added.

At the meeting of the joint committee of the Parliament on the bill, Patel read out a statement to spell out RBIs stand on the contentious FRDI bill, according to three members of the House panel who asked not to be identified.

The RBI governors stand may take the wind out of the Oppositions revolt against the FRDI bill.

Patel maintained that the central bank is not opposed to FRDI bill but added that it only wants more clarity on how the regulator (RBI) and the proposed Resolution Corporation (RC) would work simultaneously, according to the three members of the House panel.

RBI, Patel said, also doesnt want the protected amount in case of insolvency or resolution to go beyond Rs 1 lakh for depositors under the controversial Bail-in provision.

When Biju Janata Dal MP Bhartruhari Mahtab asked if the RBI wants this amount to be increased to protect customer interest, Patel said that this limit is fine with the RBI as 91% of the customers in Indian banks have deposits less than Rs 1 lakh in their banks accounts.

MPs Naresh Gujral of Akali Dal, Trinamools Saugata Ray and BJPs Nishikant Dubey quizzed Patel over his stand on several clauses including the inclusion of state-owned banks under the purview of the proposed law.

Patel, according to the three MPs mentioned in the first instance, supported the inclusion of state-owned banks in the law. He underlined that in case of insolvency of any state-owned bank, the Parliament of India would take the final call because these banks have been constituted by an act of parliament.

The RBI governor, according to MPs present in the meeting, suggested that the regulators such as RBI or the Insurance Regulatory Development Authority should be given the opportunity to categorize the stage of crisis and they will inform the RC for appropriate action.

Ray and a few other MPs accused Patel of changing his position, according to the three members of the House panel, but Patel, they claim, rejected the charge.Hum Dekhenge. Laazim hain hum bhi dekhenge. Hum Dekhenge...

Sab taaj uchhaale jaayenge, Sab takhth giraaye jaayenge. Hum dekhenge.

Faiz Ahmed Faizs verses, which depict the promise of a day when mountains of injustice are blown away like cotton resonated at the cultural resistance programme organised by the students union at Jawaharlal Nehru University on Monday.

Hundreds of students gathered at the outlawed freedom square, outside the administrative block to witness the programme that was organised as part of the ongoing agitations against the new attendance policy on campus. The movement had gained momentum, after a new circular issued on Thursday said that students could claim their scholarships, appear for exams, or register for the new semester, only if they maintain the minimum required attendance.

The students union had called for a strike on Friday, which continued on Monday. On Saturday, over a thousand students had surrounded the vice chancellors residence, and later violated the JNU rule and Delhi High court orders prohibiting protests within 100 metres of the administrative block, by assembling near the steps of the building.

As the group, which was supposed to perform on Monday, had to cancel last minute, the students took it upon themselves to sing Faizs songs of resistance, revolution and hope, and kept at it even after the lights in the area were cut out.

This is a clear violations of the high courts orders and university statutes... The responsibility will be on the leader, and we will be looking into who called the students to the area, said a university official, who requested anonymity.

The official also questioned why students should oppose attendance if they are attending classes regularly, and argued that they were only formalising the attendance system that many professors already have in place.

Geeta Kumari, the president of the JNUSU, argued that this was not just about the attendance, even though it might have been the culminating point. The replacement of the Gender Sensitisation Committee Against Sexual Harassment (GSCASH) with an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), the seat cuts at the university, the closure of the dhabas, the administrations response to the disappearance of Najeeb Ahmed, among other things all played a role. The demand has now changed from a call to roll back attendance policy, to the resignation of the V-C.

The V-C, and other officials, did not respond to requests for comments.

The JNU Teachers Association also held an extended executive committee meeting on Monday, where they decided that they would support the students in their movement and their boycott of attendance, and have reportedly written to the V-C seeking an appointment for Tuesday.If the present eludes you, delve into the past, goes an old saying. Youll find answers to all your unresolved problems here. This has become even more important in this era of intellectual cynicism. But are we creating new models that future generations can emulate? Our mythological characters were fortunate when it came to this. The methods of evaluating and representing them were transparent. Just imagine, had there been social media in the age of Mahabharat, would this eternally inspirational epic poem assume the shape that it did? Had many diverse interpretations and stories been placed before him, even Maharishi Vyasa would have been confused.

For instance, when Gandhari decided she would wear a blindfold for the rest of her life, a section of feminists would have pronounced her decision as an insult to the identity and self-respect of women. Conservatives may have showered Gandharis emotions with the greatest accolades even as others called it out as hypocrisy. It is likely that the citizens of Gandhar would have got upset with the people of Hastinapur. In response, Hastinapur would have sung the tune of national honour.

Not just this, the Eklavya episode in Dronacharyas ashram would have been dissected on the basis of caste, class and community, and riots would have gripped the Subcontinent much before the battle of Mahabharat. The incident with Karn would have met a similar fate. Not just this, Draupadi, who chose not to marry Arjun but all the five Pandava brothers after the swayamvar, would have been used as a pawn between Panchal and Hastinapur. Possibly, the Pandavas would have lost her not in a game of dice but in a social media war!

In those circumstances, the war of Mahabharat would have either taken place earlier than it did or transformed into endless combat.

All this took place hundreds of years ago. Even if you look at happenings from 30 or 40 years ago, youll discern a clear difference between events, which took place before and after the advent of social media. Let me begin with Operation Blue Star. So many factual and fictional audios, videos and accounts of the events would have surfaced that a section of society would have become a victim of irrevocable rage. Later, Indira Gandhis assassination and the demolition of the Babri Masjid led to riots across the nation. Had their videos gone viral, it would have made the blood of future generations boil. If you find this tough to believe, pay a little attention to the propaganda techniques of the al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. The alleged atrocities being committed on Muslims across the world, convenient interpretations of history and false dreams of a rosy future have claimed the lives of thousands of young people. In the name of peace, the way social media has been misused to imperil the world will leave future generations astounded.

I took you on this journey down memory lane because similar attempts to spew venom in our country have taken place in the last few years. From Akhlaq to Ankit, all kinds of falsehoods have been propagated. This is an era when instead of commiserating or mourning a death, it is seen as an opportunity.

The problem goes beyond just spreading communal frenzy. Making a profit and earning notoriety by fanning caste and communal fires has become popular. The kind of upheaval that was created before the release of Padmaavat was scary. Without even watching the film, a few people began raising the banner of communal intolerance and its fires engulfed more than half of India. Subsequently, doing a U-turn, the leaders of the Karni Sena said the film was not a cause for insult but a matter of pride. Now attempts are being made to stir up controversy over Kangna Ranauts Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi. Why is a country with a population of 125 crore held hostage by a handful of miscreants time and again?

Those getting aggressive on social media should keep in mind that the nuance between real and fake is being obliterated in this realm. Facebook has admitted it has more than two crore fake users. It doesnt even have data on how many of its users are genuine. Shouldnt we be alarmed when a few computers can be used to create an army of trolls and intelligence agencies deploy this tool to destabilise other nations?

Well also have to understand that every nation has its own unique sensibilities and understanding of history. If we dont respect these, the dust of history, where destroyed civilisations are buried, awaits us.

Shashi Shekhar is editor-in-chief Hindustan

letters@hindustantimes.comChief minister Trivendra Singh Rawats absence in a tea party, hosted by veteran BJP leader Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank at his residence here on Sunday, has triggered speculations about rumblings in the ruling party of Uttarakhand.

The rumours found traction because almost all top BJP state unit leaders were present at the tea party. They included the partys state unit chief Ajay Bhatt, three former CMs -- Vijay Bahuguna and Bhagat Singh Koshiyari, apart from Nishank who is also a member of parliament from Haridwar.

Almost all cabinet ministers, barring Satpal Maharaj, and BJPs national joint general secretary (organisation) Shiv Prakash also attended the tea party, said sources familiar with the development.

Nishank confirmed that most of 57 BJP legislators were present at the tea party but called the rumours about dissidence as baseless.

The rumours got credence in the backdrop of rebellion brewing in the BJPs state wing. Kunwar Pranab Singh Champion, a four-time party legislator from Khanpur (Haridwar), has alleged that the chief minister was under the influence of a strong cabinet minister from Haridwar who is weakening the ruling BJP and protecting the corrupt.

In an interview, Singh said he would meet party chief Amit Shah on Tuesday to tell him that the chief minister was not paying heed to his complaints about corruption.

Former chief minister BC Khanduri has also accused Rawat of trying to push a watered down version of the Lokayukta amendment Bill in the assembly. Khaduri is considered the architect of a strong Lokayukta law enacted during his tenure in 2011.

Rawat and his cabinet colleague Satpal Maharaj appear to be at odds with each other. Sources close to the tourism minister said Maharaj has not been happy with the way he was ignored in many programmes related to his ministry. Maharaj was also among the front runners for the CMs post ahead of the 2017 assembly polls.

Besides, senior legislators have been sulking after they were not included in the Rawat cabinet formed about a year ago. Party insiders said the patience of the aspiring legislators has now started wearing thin as there has been no cabinet expansion to fill two vacant berths.

In this backdrop, most party legislators attending the tea party is self-explanatory, said a BJP insider. Most BJP leaders attending the tea party that was skipped by the CM may perhaps lead to major changes at the level of the government and the party.

Refuting such speculations, Nishank said, I simply invited our party leaders and workers for the tea party...Most of them attended it because they were already in the town to attend a party function.

BJP MLA Deshraj Karnwal said, It was simply a tea party and not much should be read into it. Darshan Singh Rawat, the CMs media coordinator, the event (tea party) had not been listed in the CMs programme for that day. The chief minister had many other important programmes lined up for him.The Uttarakhand Police have arrested five members of two inter-state cybercrime gangs for duping three senior citizens from Uttarakhand of Rs 86 lakh, Rs 38 lakh and Rs 97 lakh in separate cases.

Three of those arrested are from Arunachal Pradesh, while two are from Orissa.

Additional director general of police (ADGP) Ashok Kumar said that those arrested are students aged between 21 and 25 years and used to target senior citizens by luring them with lottery and business propositions which promised quick returns.

Police have, however, withheld the names of the victims citing privacy and security reasons.

Rs 86 lakhs duped using 50 bank accounts

In the first case, a cybercrime gang from Orissa duped a retired mechanical engineer from Pauri Garhwal district of Rs 86 lakh. Police said the victim was an engineer in Qatar and the accused contacted him on the pretext that they will help him transfer his savings to India without having to pay taxes that government levies.

He was reportedly asked to transfer the amount in as many as 50 bank accounts. Police said the victim was also lured by the accused, who told him that he has won a lottery worth Rs 64 crore and that he needs to pay some money for the cheque to be cleared.

The victim had been regularly transferring money into different accounts for the last seven years, only to realise that he has been fooled, said Ridhim Agarwal, senior superintendent of police, special task force.

The accused in this case, Somnath Sahu and Anil Kumar Bahera, are residents of Cuttak in Orissa and were arrested on February 7. Two other members of their gang, Dheeraj Rao, a resident of Champaran in Bihar, and Swapnasajeet, a resident of Puri in Orissa, were arrested by the Chhattisgarh Police last year. The gang is also involved in similar crimes and the Chhattisgarh Police had seized 105 debit cards from their possession.

Police said Dheeraj will soon be brought to Uttarakhand after seeking his transit warrant.

Three nabbed from Arunachal

The victims in the other two cases are also senior citizens and live in Dehradun. Police arrested three people from Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh for duping two elderly persons of Rs 38 lakh and Rs 97 lakh in separate cases.

Police said that in the first case, the accused contacted the victim via phone and email, and asked him to deposit Rs 38 lakh in different accounts by promising to issue him an international credit card that would enable him to buy property abroad.

In the second case, another senior citizen from Dehradun was duped by the same group of Rs 97 lakh. The victim was promised a lucrative international business of high yielding varieties of seeds.

Police have arrested Vikram Singha and Joke Baghra, both residents of West Siang, and Nani Tabin, a resident of Lower Subansiri in Arunachal Pradesh in these cases.

Fake documents used to open accounts

While revealing their modus operandi, police said that they called the victims using proxy servers and would also send emails posing as agents of financial firms. Once we were able to trace the accused using details of their bank deposits and ATM transactions, we sent teams to Orissa and Arunachal Pradesh to arrest them, the ADGP said.

He added that all of them have multiple accounts that were opened using fake documents. As many as 50 bank accounts were used in the case involving the fraud of Rs 86 lakh. Meanwhile, the group from Arunachal Pradesh used 13 bank accounts to execute these frauds.

The banks are also complicit in the fraud as they allowed people to open multiple accounts using fake documents. We will take action against the bank officials found guilty, the ADGP said.Acting on an advice of Muslim Rastriya Manch (MRM), an arm of the RSS, a madrasa has set up a cowshed in Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand to teach students the importance of cattle protection, apart from providing them milk, people managing the institution said.

Around 1,000 students are enrolled in the madrasa, named Garib Nawaz that is situated near Bajpur town, 40 kms from Rudrapur. A madrasa is a school where mainly Islamic theology is taught, though of late modern curriculum has been accepted.

We were already keeping cows in madrasa and decided lately to have a cowshed. Its a new experience for us as well as students, said Maulana Usman Alvi, chairman of the Ali Welfare Educational Society society that handles the administration of the madrasa. The society runs 11 madrasas in Udham Singh Nagar and Nainital districts.

The cowshed that was inaugurated on Saturday has 15 cows and the number is likely to increase in coming months, said Muhammad Ali, the caretaker. We have agricultural land adjoining the cowshed on which fodder is grown for the cattle.

Alvi is associated with MRM that is an arm of the RSS, the ideological mentor of the BJP. Indresh Kumar heads the MRM. The RSS works for cow protection, saying rearing of cattle is not a matter of religion.

Alvi said Kumar suggested to open a cowshed at the madras during a meeting held last month. He said cow milk has medicinal values.

We prefer to keep cows instead of buffaloes so that students can know about the importance of gau sewa (cow protection), Alvi added.

Faizan Ahmed, secretary of the society, said some ulemas  religious preachers  were creating awareness about cow protection and the importance of being a vegetarian.

Two months ago, the Madrasa Welfare Society that manages 207 madrasas in the state decided to teach Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language, to students from the coming academic session.Dehradun: In the last two years, Uttarakhand could not report even one percent increase in its forest cover, shows the Forest Survey of India (FSI) report released on Monday in New Delhi, by Union forest minister Dr Harsh Vardhan. Only a marginal increase of 23 sq km forest cover was reported since 2015.

The latest report of 2017 has shown a meagre increase of 165 sq km in very dense forest and 636 sq km in other forest categories, while the moderate dense forest diminished with a difference of 778 sq km, leaving the total cover in state to 24,295 sq km. The revised assessment of 2015 survey has reported 24,272 sq km cover in state.

Prakash Lakhchaura, director FSI, however, said that an increase in very dense forest category is an encouraging sign. Very dense forest is important as it locks maximum carbon. An increase of this type of forest is a positive sign, he said.

The main concern is moderate forest, which, according to Lakhchura, has degraded in past two years owing to developmental activities. The moderate forest has shown a decline, which reflects that developmental activities have taken a toll on this section of forest, he said.

The work on Prime Minister Narendra Modis pet project, All Weather Road, for connecting four shrines-Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri and Gangotri, began during this period, for which over 80% of nearly 50,000 trees have already been chopped along the route.

Under the Rs 12000-crore project, an 889-km road network will be built in eight districts in the state. The Centre has set a deadline of 2019 for completion of the project. A tunnel, 15 big flyovers, 101 small bridges, 3,596 culverts and 12 bypass roads will be reconstructed for smooth transit. 29 landslide-prone zones, which pose blockage to traffic movement, will be made secure.

The activists, however, are worried with the decline of moderate dense forest- which as per them, is slaughtered for developmental activities.

The problem is that we lack ecological indicators that could continue giving us the feedback on the health of forest cover, Anil Joshi, Padam Shree awardee and noted environmentalist, said.

Joshi further added that the moderate forest acts as a cushion for very dense forest, and if developmental activities are taking place in this section, soon its implications could be seen on the dense network.

Dinesh Pandey, Haridwar based activist said, Its time to realise whether we want roads or trees to survive.

The top five states where maximum forest cover has increased are Andhra Pradesh (2,141 sq km), Karnataka (1,101 sq km), Kerala (1,043 sq km), Odisha (885 sq km) and Telangana (565 sq km).

The present assessment also reveals that 15 states and union territories (UTs) have above 33 per cent of the geographical area under forest cover.

Out of these states and UTs, Mizoram, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya and Manipur have more than 75 per cent forest cover, while eight -- Tripura, Goa, Sikkim, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Chhattisgarh and Assam have forest cover between 33 per cent and 75 per cent.The last day of public hearing on objections and suggestions on amendments to the Master Plan of Delhi (MPD) 2021 started on a stormy note with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs getting to a political slugfest.

AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj from Greater Kailash suggested the land owning agency should specify how the fund collected as conversion charges will be spent but BJP MLA and leader of opposition in the Delhi assembly Vijender Gupta objected to his submission.

If the DDA mandates collection of conversion charges, it should spell out how the amount collected would be used because municipal corporations have been misusing conversion charges. It should set a deadline for spending funds on a specific project, Bhardwaj said.

His remark evoked a sharp reaction from the BJP leader, who was also a member of the panel hearing public views.

Gupta said the AAP MLAs instead of recording their responses before the DDA panel were are making political statements. He was joined by his party colleague and Vishwas Nagar MLA OP Sharma.

Bhardwaj was supported by Ajay Dutt, AAP legislator from Ambedkar Nagar and Rajesh Gupta, MLA from Wazirpur. This led to heated arguments between two groups,which prompted DDA officials to intervene.

The DDA had on February 2 proposed three amendments to the master plan  a uniform floor area ratio (FAR) for shop-cum-residential complexes, reduced penalties and regularising agricultural godowns. These amendments were aimed at providing relief to traders from the sealing drive.

A report based on the responses will be presented in the authoritys meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal after which they will be included in master plan amendments.

After a nod in the authority meetings, the modifications in MPD will be notified. Efforts are on to propose consolidated amendments so that DDA does not face any difficulty in Supreme Court, said a DDA official.

Mixed land use stretches

Citing lack of employment opportunities, attendees demanded that more roads (also in villages) should be allowed for mixed land use.

Raj Singh Dabas, a senior citizen from Kanjhawala, sought inclusion of village roads, seven metres in width, in the mixed land use category. This would help settle employment issues in villagers. Land acquisition has rendered our children unemployed, he said.

Gajender Singh from Jasola said that due to shortage of commercial space, locals are facing difficulties. Ours is highly populated neighbourhood and the number of shops is comparatively less. If commercial activities are allowed, it will help area residents because these shops will cater to their daily needs, he said.

Conversion charges waiver

Traders insisted on waiving off conversion charges and uniform FAR in other markets. Ashok Ratti of Lajpat Nagar said while illegal markets were enjoying higher FAR (350), approved markets are not getting the same.A narrow street leads to a two-room house of 65-year-old Shamshudin at Metro Vihar in Bawana. The daily wage labourer lives with two sons and four daughters. Shamshudin lost his wife in a massive fire that broke out in a factory at Bawana on January 20.

Seventeen people had died in that incident with the family members of the victims receiving compensation cheques of Rs 5 lakh each from the state government on January 24. Shamshudin was one of them.

More than two-weeks after the incident, that cheque remains neatly folded in the pocket of his old coat. Shamshudin says he has failed to encash it as he doesnt have a bank account and cant open one in the absence of any valid identity proof document with him.

Though, a number of families of the tragedy said that they had received the compensation amount, HT met at least four families who had either not been able to encash their cheques or were in their villages to perform the last rites of their loved ones at the time the cheques were being distributed.

Delhi government spokesperson Arunoday Prakash said that they are looking into the matter. Those who have not received the cheques will get them in due time from the revenue department. We will also inform the local authorities, including the SDM concerned, to get in touch with such families. Also, those who do not have bank accounts will receive help in opening one. They neednt worry, he said.

People affected by the fire said the compensation can go a long way in helping them start their lives again. Shamshudin, for instance, was hoping to spend the money on the medical treatment of two of his children, who are mentally challenged. Also, he wanted to fix the water leaks in the corners of his house.

I have stopped going to work. All I am doing these days is going to the banks and meeting officials. The cheque will become invalid after three months. So that is my biggest worry. I have applied for a Aadhaar card. When that is made, I can open a bank account. But I dont know how much time it will take, said Shamshudin.

Two houses away from Shamshudins house, lives the family of Rajjo (55), who perished in the fire tragedy. Her four children received a cheque of Rs 1.25 lakh each. However, the name on the cheque belonging to Rajjos eldest daughter Sunita (30) was misspelt as Sunil.

Being illiterate, she didnt realise it immediately on receiving the cheque. It was only after she went to a bank that it was pointed out to her. Sunita says its her fault. At the time of submitting identity proofs before distribution of cheques, she had submitted a document that had her name wrong, which in turn were printed on the cheque.

I feel helpless. I am not educated enough to know what to do next. This cheque now feels like a burden. I do not understand how to get the name on the cheque corrected, or whom to approach for help, said Sunita.

Another victim, Mahipal (45), whose wife died in the fire, says he never received the compensation cheque. He says he had taken his wifes body to his village in Uttar Pradesh to perform her last rites. Mahipal says that he wasnt present in Metro Vihar when chief minister Arvind Kejriwal distributed the cheques among the kin of the victims. He came to know about it only after he returned from the village a week later.The Delhi Police on Monday released sketches of two of the four suspects, who had allegedly shot dead 44-year-old property dealer Vinod Mehra in a case of road rage on a flyover in northwest Delhis Bhalswa Dairy last Tuesday. Police are yet to make a breakthrough in the case.

The sketches have been prepared using the physical description of the suspects shared with the police by Mehras 15-year-old nephew Kunal, who was with him when the incident took place. The suspects were allegedly travelling in a white Maruti Eeco van with the words Alisha and Gujar written at the back of the vehicle.

Sagar Preet Hooda, joint commissioner of police (northern range), said the sketches were prepared by the crime branch officials, who are doing a parallel probe in the case. The sketches will be released in the public domain through newspapers and news channels so that the suspects can be identified and arrested soon, said Hooda.

The suspects were allegedly travelling in a white Maruti Eeco van. (Sourced)

A police officer associated with the probe said there are around 30,000 Eeco vans registered in Delhi. During the probe, the ownership of all white Eeco vans was established and their movements during the time of the crime were verified.

Investigators then narrowed down their focus on around 100 vans, which either had Alisha or Gujar written on them. The location of the owners of seven to eight such vans were found in Alipur and Bhalswa Dairy area. Officials, however, said the questioning of the owners did not yield any result and the probe was back to square one.

A crime branch officer said they were collecting data of mobile phones that were active in the vicinity of the crime scene where Mehra was shot dead. We will now analyse the data for leads, said the officer.

Mehra, a resident of Geeta Colony, was returning home from a wedding when the incident took place around 2.30am last Tuesday. An argument erupted between Mehra and the men in an Eeco van after he objected to their rash driving. The men then chased his car on GT Road and blocked it.

A man emerged from the car and pointed a handgun at Mehra. An altercation ensued and the gun went off, shooting Mehra in the chest. He was rushed to Sant Parmanand Hospital where he was declared brought dead.Are Delhis lungs getting degraded?

While on the one hand, there has been a minuscule increase in the forest cover and tree cover in Delhi over the past two years, the city has lost portions of its thick forest during the same duration.

Scientists say that this is a bad sign because it is the dense forests and their thick canopies that actually help to remove carbon dioxide from the air and sequester them.

The India State of Forest Report 2017, which was released on Monday by the Union government, shows that the total forest cover and tree cover in Delhi, has gone up by 0.25% and 0.13%, respectively, since 2015. The forest cover in India has gone up by 1%.

Any patch of land, including an orchard, which is more than one hectare and has a canopy cover of more than 10% is considered a forest. Anything below one hectare is counted as tree cover.

The report also reveals that both very dense forest cover and medium dense forest cover in Delhi has declined over the past two years.

While the very dense forest cover has declined from 6.94 sq km on 2015 to 6.72 sq km in 2017, the medium dense forest cover has dropped from 57.1 sq km to 56.2 sq km during the same time.

While very dense forest cover has more than 70% canopy, medium dense forest cover has a canopy of 40% to 70%. These are the actual carbon sinks. Losing out such dense forests is not a good sign as it reduces a citys capacity to sequester carbon, said a senior official of the Forest Survey of India, which prepared the report.

It is the open forests with a canopy cover of 10% to 40% which has increased from 124 sq km to 129 sq km in Delhi, leading to an overall increase in forest cover.

Some trees had to be felled because of construction projects such as the Metro and road widening. But at the same time, afforestation drives were also undertaken. The new plants have not been accounted for as they are too small. They would only come under the medium dense forest or very dense forest after a period of five to 10 years at least, said Ishwar Singh, additional principal chief conservator of forest of Delhi.

Most of Delhis forests are dominated by the Vilayti Kikar (Prosopis julifora) and they provided a thick canopy cover. But over the past few years, we have been noticing that the kikars are being attacked by two kinds of weeds, which are basically climbers, resulting in their canopy loss. The water table is also going down causing death of some kikars. This could be a possible reason behind the loss of dense forest cover, said CR Babu, ecologist.

The report says that Delhis addition of 3.64 sq km of forest, mostly through open forest cover, is because of plantation and conservation activities. The decrease is forest cover has been attributed to civil construction.

In April 2017, the then environment minister Anil Madhav Dave had informed the Rajya Sabha that more than 15,000 trees were felled in Delhi between 2014 and 2017 for construction works.

The government seems to be running after numbers. Just saying that forest cover and tree cover has gone up, would be portraying a rosy picture. The count may have gone up but the health of forest has actually deteriorated. By planting a few trees as a part of compensatory afforestation programme one can never replace a healthy forest. With loss of each hectare of forest we also lose an ecosystem, said Vimlendu Jha, environmentalist.A fire broke out in a footwear factory in outer Delhis Narela Industrial Area on Monday morning, prompting authorities to rush in at least six fire tenders to control the blaze.

According to a fire officer, the blaze broke out on the ground floor of the factory at 9.30am. Atul Garg, chief fire officer, Delhi Fire Services, said the blaze spread to the entire ground floor within minutes. The trigger behind the blaze is yet to be known, he said.

No casualties have been reported so far. The fire tenders are dousing the blaze and the situation is under control, another fire officer said.

Scores of factories in the industrial areas of Narela and Bawana are sitting ducks when it comes to fire. Many of these factories operate illegally and have little arrangements to deal with a blaze which are frequent occurrences. Only last month, 17 persons were killed in a blaze in a cracker manufacturing unit in neighbouring Bawana.A 32-year-old woman who snatches cell phones for a living; a mother of eight who orders killings for money; a 35-year-old-woman who runs Delhis biggest prostitution racket  the Capital has its fair share of women criminals.

Some of them, police say, are godmothers who run their own gangs with men working under them. One of Delhis most wanted is a 62-year-old woman, declared absconding in a murder case. The woman named Basiran, whose six sons face around 99 criminal cases, had taken around Rs 60,000 to pay off contract killers for a murder.

Shakeela, 53, is a bad character in the files of an east Delhi police station, with at least 21 criminal cases against her. The woman is accused of drug smuggling and running gambling dens where budding criminals meet. Ramanjeet Kaur, 32, dresses as a man, rides motorbikes and snatches cell phones across the city.

The biggest prostitution rackets in Delhi are run by women. There are small-time women thieves who work in different gangs. Over 90% of pickpockets stealing cell phones and wallets in crowded Delhi Metro trains are women, records show. Of the 1,211 people arrested last year for stealing on the Metro, only 89 (7.34%) were men. Some women working with gangsters are used to honeytrap rivals.

From selling illicit liquor to running gambling dens and prostitution rackets, police records feature many women.

HT takes a look at some names on top of that list.

Shakeela, 53

She has been registered as a bad character in the records of the Shakarpur police station in east Delhi. In police records, a bad character is a person who has a criminal history and should be kept on watch to ensure there is no law and order problem in the area.

Shakeela

Shakeela started as a vegetable seller and graduated to running one of the biggest gambling dens in east Delhis Laxmi Nagar. Police have accused her of running gambling dens where local criminals assemble. Police have tracked her involvement in 21 criminal cases, mostly those of gambling and illicit liquor.

Most members of northeast Delhis notorious Chhenu Pehalwan gang were regulars at her den.

In 2014, the then district commissioner had signed an externment order, prohibiting her from entering Delhi for at least two years but the Delhi High Court overruled the DCPs order. Shakeela has cases of rioting, attempted murder, excise act and smuggling drugs against her. Shakeelas brother, Mannu alias Anees Khan, carries a reward of R 50,000 on his head. He is wanted in cases of extortion, arms act and murder.

Sonu Punjaban, 38

Arrested on December 24, 2017, Geeta Arora alias Sonu Punjaban ran one of the biggest prostitution rackets in the city. A native of Rohtak, she was last arrested on the complaint of a 13-year-old girl, who alleged that Sonu beat her, drugged her and forced her into prostitution. In 2011, police had booked Sonu under charges of stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).

Sonu Punjaban

Her first husband, Vijay Singh, a gangster, was killed in a police encounter in 2004. Her second husband, Hemant Singh, too met the same fate and was killed in 2006 by a police team in Gurgaon. She has five cases of murder, immoral trafficking act and POCSO against her. Sonu told police that she has around 15-20 men in her gang.

She claims to have gifted a Hyundai Creta car worth at least Rs 10 lakh to her boyfriend last year and also given each man in her gang a second hand car to pick and drop women. Police are scanning Paytm accounts, which her gang used to get money for call girls. She reportedly told the police that she earns around Rs 50,000 every day from one girl.

Ramapreet Kaur, alias Rani, 32

Until her arrest last month, the 32-year-old was only a mysterious pillion rider snatching cell phones and jewellery on the city streets. She used to dress as a man. The city police had caught two men on a bike in at least 38 CCTV cameras across Kirti Nagar market. When police traced the bike and arrest the rider, the investigating officers were shocked when the man told them that his associate, riding pillion on the Pulsar AS 200 motorcycle, was a woman.

Ramapreet Kaur

Police have so far found evidence of her involvement in at least nine cases of robbery and snatching committed . A Nangloi resident, Rani was externed for two years in 2014. The additional deputy commissioners order was upheld by Delhis L-G. Rani told police that she took to crime after her husbands arrest in a murder case in 2014. She recently bought a flat for Rs 16 lakh in Nangloi. Police had seized 7 gold chains, 2 gold rings, 2 iPhone and 1 Samsung J7 phone apart from Rs 78,000 cash and silver jewellery from her. Committing crimes since 2013, she has been arrested 13 times since 2013 but released on bail. Police suspect she is involved in at least 100 cases.

Saira Begum,43

Saira has a 28-year-long crime record in Delhis police stations. And, it is only the documented years of her activities in the crime world. Police suspect her crimes span for over three decades. Saira, along with her husband, Afaq, was arrested in 2016 for running one of Delhis biggest human trafficking and call girl racket. While Begum is in prison, her aides continue to run brothels at GB Road, near Paharganj.

Saira Begum

Currently lodged in jail under the stringent MCOCA Act, the couple had allegedly trafficked hundreds of women from Nepal and India. She was first arrested in 1990 for soliciting prostitution. She started as a sex worker in brothel number 57 of GB Road and later bought it to run her own racket.

In August 2016, when police arrested her, they seized four luxury cars, including an Audi. She had over Rs1 crore in bank deposits. With three flats in Bengaluru, six kothas at GB Road and a farmhouse in southeast Delhi, she had made a fortune through trafficking girls and forcing them into prostitution.

Police are probing if she runs other brothels in GB Road under false names.

Basiran, 62

The mother of eight is on the run after her name cropped up in a murder case. She has cases of extortion, robbery and selling illicit liquor registered against her in many police stations.

Her six sons, including a juvenile, have allegedly been involved in 99 cases of murder, robbery, extortion and theft and other heinous crimes. Within days of coming out on bail in September. Basiran allegedly took a contract of Rs 60,000 from a woman, Munni Begum, to murder her brother.

Police found the burnt and decomposed body of the man in a wooded area in Sangam Vihar. Police said Begum had contacted Basirans jailed son Rahul Khans gang members and paid them Rs 42,000 to murder her brother. Begum, along with three others, was arrested on January 10 while Basiran and her husband are absconding.

A native of Rajasthan, Basiran started selling illicit liquor in south Delhis Sangam Vihar. Police have also accused her of being part of water mafia in Sangam Vihar, one of the countrys largest unauthorized colonies, where she sells water drawn through illegal borewells.Work on the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) expressway and the Kundli-Ghaziabad-Palwal (KGP) expressway would be completed by March 31, and the two major roads, which are likely to take a significant traffic load off the streets of the National Capital, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar inspected the KMP-KGP intersection and National Highway-1 at Rai in Haryanas Sonipat district. Khattar said that the construction work on these expressways would get completed within the prescribed timeframe and it would help in dealing with traffic jams. Earlier, he reviewed the progress of construction work and sought report from the officers of the construction company.

In October last year, Khattar had announced that the work on the KMP expressway would be completed by the end of 2017.

Chief Minister on Monday conducted a surprise inspection of the project sites in Kundli to know the exact progress on these two key roads as Haryana government is very keen on this project. He expressed satisfaction at the pace of work. We have been assured that this project will be completed by March 31. It will be dedicated to the nation by PM Narendra Modi, said Amit Arya, media advisor to the Haryana CM.

Officials said Khattar had a detailed discussion with highway authority officials and he sought details about the construction status of the roads. He also inspected the intersection point of the KGP and KMP on NH-1.

The CM reportedly took keen interest in the service roads, road over bridges and other infrastructure being built along the road and asked stakeholders to expedite the work so it is completed by March 31.

The Haryana government has been a strong proponent of the KMP, and the KGP expressways as it hopes to gain major traction from the movement of vehicles on this expressway in terms of business and industrial expansion. After these roads are completed, vehicles going from north India to western and southern part of the country would be able to pass through without entering into Delhi. These vehicles will also be able to bypass Gurgaon and Delhi, which will reduce pollution and traffic in NCR.

Earlier, Haryana CM had announced that the work on the KMP expressway would be completed by the end of last year. The 53-km Manesar-Palwal section connects Delhi-Jaipur NH-48 with Delhi-Agra NH-2 and is aimed at facilitating vehicles to commute on both highways without entering Delhi and without travelling on the Delhi-Gurgaon expressway.Security personnel at Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) had to rescue a drunk passenger who locked himself in the washroom for about an hour.

The incident created a scare as he was still carrying his bag and had not cleared the security check.

The incident took place on February 5, when a Dubai-bound passenger went to the washroom in the check-in area of Terminal 3. This area is not a sanitised zone and any passenger with a ticket can enter the building.

At 2:30 am, we were told someone had gone to the washroom but did not come out for about an hour. The cleaner noticed the locked door and alerted security. We knocked the door and asked him to come out but when he didnt, the door was broken open, said an officer of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

CISF commandos were at the spot but when the door was opened, the passenger was found lying on the floor and was unable to move. Officials said he had passed out in a drunken state.

He had to travel by Emirates airline flight EK 513, which was to depart at 4:10 am. When the entire drama ended, the passenger was sent out from the terminal.

The passengers are usually not checked at the entry gate and anyone can carry explosives and plant it in the terminal. Before they are frisked, the passenger has to go through the check-in process. The passenger went to the washroom in the check-in area, the officer added.

An officer of Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), which operates the Delhi airport, said the cleaning staff, noticed the door locked.

He informed the security personnel and a technical person was called who knew how to open the door from outside, the officer said.Ashok Mathur (48), a fifth generation resident of Shahjahanabad, dreads medical emergencies.

The nearest healthcare facility is just 2km away from his Roshanpura residence in Nai Sadak, but moving a person in case of an emergency can be a nightmare given the perpetual traffic snarls in streets of old Delhi. With his aging parents suffering from cardiac ailments, Mathur is afraid that in case of an emergency he may find himself stuck.

The area, identified as one of the three major trade centres in Master Plan Delhi (MPD) 2021, sees hectic commercial activity through the day. Defying the National Green Tribunals (NGT) directives, loading and unloading of goods take place even during the restricted time causing traffic disruption. I dont want to move out as our roots are here. We try to tweak our lifestyle to make up for the poor infrastructure, said Mathur.

The MPD 2021 suggested a comprehensive traffic plan comprising road widening, reserving lanes for cyclists, corridors for non-motorised vehicles and parking lots. Similar measures to improve traffic in the Walled City were also presented in the first master plan in 1962 as well as the second one in 2001. MPD 2021 stressed on removing encroachments, making the traffic one-way and arranging for parking space to decongest Shahjahanabad. The authorities have failed to implement a single MPD plan, Mathur said.

Years of planning

Mohammed Nawabuddin (42), a resident of Kucha Pandit corroborates Mathur.

Nawabuddins elder brother Mohammed Raeesuddin died in September when he was being taken to GB Pant hospital in a cycle rickshaw. He had a cardiac arrest.

There is chaos in old Delhi lanes. Even a critical patient has to be ferried on a cycle rickshaw or two-wheelers. From my place, you can reach the hospital in 10 minutes but that day it took us almost an hour. When I reached the hospital, my brother had already died, he said.

With the help of a relative and social worker, Nawabuddin plans to move the court against the civic and police authorities. So that no other residents meet the same fate, he said.

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in July 2017 started preparing the master plan for citys development till 2041 including the special area  Walled City and its extension  with the help of National Institute Urban Affairs (NIUA).

Read: Multiple agencies hamper implementation of Master Plan rules

However, stakeholders and experts are not enthused. They believe authorities must first formulate pragmatic guidelines to implement MPD. They say the requirements outlined in the three MPDs (1962, 2001, and 2021) are almost identical but none have made a difference.

Implementation has been a problem. Shahjahanabad project needs to be worked upon in an integrated and coordinated manner. Residents have to be taken on board. Policies should not be altered under pressure and work should not be undertaken on an ad hoc basis, said AK Jain, former commissioner (planning).

Deterioration over years

The city, built by Mughal king Shahjahan around 380 years ago, was spread over 600 hectares and planned for 60,000 people. In 1961, Delhis population touched 4.20 lakh and in the following year, Walled City area was notified as a slum.

In 2001, it was estimated that 2.35 lakh people were living in old Delhi. In 2017, the population was around 3.25 lakh people, including the homeless. A report by the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) in 2014 pegged the number of homeless in the area at about 11,500.

The area witnessed a phenomenal increase in commercial establishments after 1961. The number jumped from 22,000 in 1961 to 1.55 lakh in 1981. According the SRDC report, 1. 53 lakh units were still running in 2014, out of which 10.33 per cent were being run out of residences.

A DDA official, who did not want to be named, said the situation deteriorated despite the first MPD proposal to restrict commercial use in the Walled City. With squirt in trade and commercial activities, havelis were converted into godowns. Single-storey structures were replaced with multilevel complexes. It rendered planning meaningless, he said.

A view of Hauz Qazi Chowk in Shahjahanabad, New Delhi. (Sanchit Khanna/HT PHOTO)

Lack of coordination

Sanjay Bhargava, president of Chandni Chowk Sarv Vyapar Mandal, said the situation has spiraled in the last two decades. Last year, around Diwali, there was a fire on the main road. The firemen took an hour to reach the site though the station is just 1km away, he said.

Atul Garg, chief of Delhi Fire Service corroborated these concerns. He said narrow lanes, encroachments, and illegal parking hamper rescue operations.

The region has major wholesale markets that get thousands of buyers and visitors daily. Some of these markets are: Ajmeri Gate (metals, machinery, automobile parts, hardware and tools), Khari Baoli (dry fruits, spices, oil, and chemicals), Lahori Gate (cereals and grains), Chawri Bazaar (paper and sanitary fittings), Chandni Chowk (garments and general trade), Chitli Bazaar (clothes), Lajpat Rai Market (electronic goods) and Bhagirathi Place (electrical and medicines), and Darya Ganj (publishers).

MPD 1962 called for shifting hazardous industries and redeveloping vacant plots or dilapidated structures as community facilities like schools, toilets, health centres or parks. These were also part of MPD 2021 and MCDs Zonal Plan 2007.

Traffic chaos at Fatehpuri in Shahjahanabad. (Sanchit Khanna/HT PHOTO)

To implement these measures, the civic bodies and DDA had to develop Integrated Freight Complexes at five locations  Ghazipur, Madanpur Khadar, Dwarka, Najafgarh, and Narela. But the facilities only came up at Narela and Ghazipur.

Shifting took place only on papers as traders still operate from the market. They are reluctant to shift as facilities are not available at the new complexes. Moreover, the MCD is still granting licence to business here, said Jain.

Courts have pulled up the DDA and the MCD on several occasions for their inability to move traders. This is a virtual tinderbox. In case of any accident in this market, the consequences might be terribly fatal and catastrophic, the Delhi HC had observed while hearing a PIL after the 1999 fire incident at Lal Kuan in which 57 people were killed.

Parveen Shankar Kapoor, secretary, Chandni Chowk Nagrik Manch, who owns a shop in Fatehpuri, blamed the administration. He said involvement of multiple agencies has been counterproductive. Voluminous deals dont takes place in the market now. Traders have shifted their godowns to respective locations Ghazipur (paper), Holambi Kalan (chemical), or Narela (cereal or grain). But accessibility and banking are major issues, he added.

A view of the cramped godowns in the spice market at Khari Baoli. (Sanchit Khanna/HT PHOTO)

Tenancy dispute

Former commissioner of unified MCD KS Mehra said tenancy disputes are also a major hurdle. He says people, who have been living for years but dont have ownership rights, cant be evicted overnight.

You cant take away peoples livelihoods or shelter. The process may be time consuming as until you have space, you cant execute schemes, Mehra said.

Meanwhile, tenant-proprietor tussle is leading to attrition of old structures in Shahjahanabad. The price of properties is in crores but landlords get a meagre rent. So, they are not interested in maintenance. They keep struggling to get the possession and the occupants wait till the owners agree to sell the property at throw away price, said a senior MCD official.

A family lived in my ancestral property in Lal Kuan for decades. When, I failed to get it back, I stopped the maintenance work. A part of the haveli collapsed in a few years an d finally it was vacated. But I cant refurbish it now as I dont have funds, a property owner said.

The SRDC says that unplanned growth and non-compatible trades have also perpetuated use of havelis as godowns. The Shahjahanabad redevelopment plan is still to be finalised. It certainly requires an integrated approach or inclusiveness keeping in mind all stakeholders including number of homeless and poor people. The SRDC has prepared a preliminary project report for revitalisation, which is before the Ministry of Urban Development for consideration under HRIDAY scheme, said Nitin Panigrahi, deputy general manager (project and administation), SRDC.Water, some say, will cause the next big war. Indeed, the perilous water situation in California has even been the subject of two popular science fiction books, Paolo Bacigalupis The Water Knife, and Claire Vaye Watkins Gold Fame Citrus, both published in 2015, one of the worst years for the US state. Indeed, from the US to Australia, to Africa, and closer home, in India, water has brought proud cities to their knees.

With Cape Town in South Africa likely to be the first modern city to run out of drinking water, BBC compiled a list of 11 cities that face a similar threat. Not surprisingly, Indias own Silicon Alley, Bengaluru, is on the list. Bengalurus problems arent new, and are well chronicled, but it is still alarming to find the city on such a list. Worryingly, Bengalurus water woes do not seem reversible (some people say the same about its traffic problems).

Despite near-perennial water shortage in many parts of the country, Indias approach to the problem is slow, short-sighted, and shows an unwillingness to accept both the principles of free market economics and technological advancements that have helped other countries, albeit smaller ones, get over their own water shortages.

At the macro level, India continues to be a net exporter of water (which means the country exports agricultural produce which requires a lot of water), and a slow adopter of technologies such as desalination which are proven elsewhere in the world (and several decades ago at that). Successive governments have paid lip service to cleaning up Indian rivers, which are used as drains by local industries and residential populations.

Meanwhile, rapid development has both expanded the population of cities and also resulted in rampant (and often unchecked) construction. In Bengaluru, for instance, several fresh water lakes that once recharged the citys water supply have been built over. In New Delhi, encroachments on the Yamuna flood plain have had the same effect, although the river itself is nothing more than a drain when it flows through the city. Most water pipelines, in the cities that are fortunate enough to have them, are old, and waste as much water as they supply. And there is confusion as to how the utilities that manage these pipelines and the citys supply are structured (as indeed, there is confusion over how water should be priced). Some cities have opted for privatisation, but with no visible improvement on any parameter.

Bengalurus presence on the list should be a wake up call for other Indian cities. A mix of better planning, market-based thinking and technology adoption could help them, especially if local populations and governments are stakeholders in the process. It may be too late for Bengaluru, but there may still be a chance for other Indian cities.The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) on Tuesday declared the result of the written examination to recruit Scientific Assistant in India Meteorological Department (IMD). The examination was held from November 22 to November 25, 2017.

Steps to check the scores:

1) Visit the official website of SSC at ssc.nic.in

2) Click on the link for Scientific Assistant exam 2107 in the latest news section

3) A pdf page containing the link for result and write-up on the exam will appear

4) Click on the link to go to the result page

5) Key in desired details

6) Click on submit to check result

Scheme of examination:

The examination comprised 200 questions carrying 200 marks for two hours duration. The question paper had two parts, Part - I and Part - II.

Part 1 was divided into four parts carrying 25 marks each. The four parts were: General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness.

Part II carried 100 marks for 100 questions from Physics, Computer Science and Information Technology, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering.

There was negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in both the parts.

The Commission has prepared a category-wise merit list and sent to India Meteorological Department, which would declare the final result.

Note: Candidates should visit official website of SSC regularly for latest news and updates.Taking a look back at the weekend, there were a few major gown moments. Actor Hansika Motwani and Miss World Manushi Chhillars attention-grabbing looks definitely had us talking. While one was sublimely beautiful, the other packed more wow-factor than we ever thought possible.

Manushi makes stylish stir whenever she steps out, and on Saturday she shared a photo of her sparkly, ethereal gown that made all our jaws drop. Manushi picked a strapless rose gold Sonaakshi Raaj couture gown with tiered ruffles that extended from her knee to the floor.

A post shared by Sonaakshi Raaj (@sonaakshiraaj) on Feb 10, 2018 at 3:59am PST

Looking preened to perfection, she looked svelte in the skintight creation from the designers autumn/winter 2017 collection, which she wore with a peachy pink drop earring from Joolry By Karishma Mehra. She wore her hair in soft curls tousled on one side and plumped her pout with scarlet lipstick.

A post shared by Sonaakshi Raaj (@sonaakshiraaj) on Feb 9, 2018 at 6:23am PST

We especially loved Manushis look as our obsession with rose gold is undying  the hue is too pretty to resist! If youre looking for a dress for a big night out, consider picking a design in the blush metallic hue. Its incredibly flattering on all skin tones.

The other gown we lost our mind over belonged to Tamil and Telugu films stunner, Hansika, who hopped on the thigh-high slip bandwagon with an ethereal off-shoulder MillaNova dress. Like Manushi, Hansika proved that a lady can look girlie, but be strong as hell in her ways.

A post shared by Rochelle D'sa (@rochelledsa) on Feb 10, 2018 at 6:20am PST

Hansika flaunted her endless legs in this party-in-the-front pick. From the side and back the ivory gown exuded elegance, looking like something fit for a princess. But a frontal shot revealed a cheeky showstopping slit. Its a simple design that manages to turns heads without being OTT (Over the top). Plus the off-the-shoulder design with a flattering sweetheart neckline is bang-on trend right now.

A post shared by Rochelle D'sa (@rochelledsa) on Feb 10, 2018 at 9:18am PST

Styled by Rochelle Dsa for the launch of Colors Tamil on Friday, Hansika wore Essense jewellery, which introduced a flash of colour to the ensemble and then finished off with an fashion-forward spin thanks to her lace-up stilettos from Truffle Collection India. Super-glam wavy hair, dewy make-up and glossy lips finished off her high-wattage fashion look.

Follow @htlifeandstyle for moreWith Gigi Hadid as his opener and her royally dressed sister, Bella, at the end, Prabal Gurung celebrated the strength, grace and resilience of women in a collection full of vibrant purples, reds and blues, inspired in part by the women-led Mosuo tribe of China.

Gurung, raised by a single mother in Nepal, said in a backstage interview hes had matriarchies on his mind for a collection over the last four or five years, deciding to go ahead with this one now amid the recent movements bringing women together to fight back against sexual misconduct and oppression around the world.

His bright pinks, some in lush cashmere and wool knits hand done in Nepal, and his sari and sarong-inspired draping, he said, were references to the Gulabi Gang of women activists in northern India. They adorn themselves in pink saris symbolic of their self-proclaimed power and fearlessness, Gurung said, as they come to the defense of women, vigilante style.

There were other elements, feather and sequin detailing, the use of velvet and pearls, that generally symbolized ceremonial wardrobes.

Bella Hadid took a slow walk around the bright sand art Gurung displayed on the floor wearing a strapless, royal-red cape gown with a gold cord belt. Gigi Hadid opened the show in a porcelain-white cashmere turtleneck with fox trim on the sleeves, an orchid-colored skirt and a draped sarong overlay that wound around her neck and fell below the waist.

He also embraced the practical, in shearling and quilted puffer jackets inspired by the need to trek. Gurung said he grew up in a culture where color is celebrated in the clothes. After seeing the wear-black protest at the Golden Globes, he said he wanted to show women in their full feminine glory. Back home, he said, colour and texture was kind of unnerving for men.

Follow @htlifeandstyle for moreA theft was reported on Saturday after unidentified men ransacked an apartment and fled with cash, jewellery and other valuables worth several lakhs of rupees from the apartment of a 62-year-old psychologist, who also runs an NGO in the city.

This theft is one of the many that have been reported from blocks B, C and D this year. A spurt in cases of theft in Suncity Township in Sector 54 has become a major concern for its residents.

On Saturday, thieves broke into the house of Satish Kaushik, who is a resident of block D in Suncity Township. He was in another city for a session and had returned late on Saturday night.

The thieves entered the apartment from the front door after removing the window grills. The thieves took 6lakh in cash and jewellery worth Rs 5 lakh.

I get some money from my land, and this I had kept in the safe so I could later put it in the bank. We usually dont keep cash and jewellery at home, Kaushik said.

I take counselling sessions at universities and travel often. On Saturday, I returned around 10.30pm. When I entered the house I saw the wardrobes open and the house ransacked. The bed box, the safe and my bags were all open and all valuables had been taken away. My daughter-in-law is here from the USA, and her bag was in the other room; they took her jewellery, Kaushik said.

Members of the residents welfare association (RWA) said this is not the first theft in the area and there have been a dozen other cases all of which were reported to the police.

RWA members alleged that the Gurgaon police was spreading false claims of tightening the noose around thieves.

The township is getting unsafe day by day. Despite providing CCTV footages of the thefts, the police are unable to identify the thieves and arrest them. We will have to deploy more private security guards to increase the safety (in the colony) as we cannot depend on security arrangements made by the police, RWA president Kuldeep Rana said.

The RWA members have decided to meet the commissioner of police on Monday so that he can direct the police station concerned to look into the safety issues of the area.

Twenty-five cases of thefts, including water motor and dozens of cycles, have been reported from blocks B, C, and D this year.

Police said they have increased police deployment in the area but it is not possible to check on each house in the township.

We have registered a case and had sent forensic experts to the spot. There were no fingerprints found on the doors of the bedroom and it seems the thieves were wearing gloves. We are checking if we can get some CCTV footage to identify the thieves. We will soon get hold of the gang operating in the area, ACP (DLF) Anil Kumar said.The Gurgaon traffic police, on Monday, closed a road gap at Cyber Cityopposite Belvedere Parkthat was being used by commuters headed from the Sikanderpur underpass to turn towards New Delhi and CyberHub.

The road gap, which was closed with concrete blocks, was being used by commuters who missed the turn at a fork located 30 metres before. The merging traffic here would result in major snarls.

Residents were appreciative of the initiative and said the move had significantly streamlined the traffic, making driving towards CyberHub easier and faster on Monday.

Despite driving during the peak hour on Monday morning, I reached my destination, CyberHub, much faster. I did not get stuck at the turn where commuters turn towards CyberHub and New Delhi and this saved me a lot of time, Mihir Kohli, a resident of DLF-5, said.

Other residents said they were glad that authorities blocked the gap in the road which was serving little purpose.

Most commuters were using this turn out of habit. With the option now gone, residents will automatically adhere to the right of way, Jagdeep Singh, a resident of DLF-5, said.

Authorities had blocked off the diversion owing to snarls caused by the convergence of vehicles at the spot and said that, so far, the response to the change in traffic flow has been positive.

The gap was sealed to ensure the prevailing congestion is reduced and residents chose the right stretch of road at the initial turn instead of relying on this irregularity. Till now, we have received no complaints from commuters, ACP (traffic) Hira Singh said.

While, travelling towards New Delhi remained largely unaffected by this stretch getting blocked, it has added many miles and minutes for commuters heading towards CyberHub. They must now head to Shankhar Chowk, take a u-turn below the flyover, and take another underpass for heading towards CyberHub.Four persons were arrested on charges of molesting a 32-year-old South Korean woman in Manesar, who had stopped with her Indian friend near a hillock to take some pictures on Saturday evening.

The victim had gone just 100 metres towards the green belt along the National Highway-48 and was taking pictures, when a gang of four to five youths accosted them and started harassing the Korean national, who works in a Gurgaon-based firm, the police said.

After a complaint was lodged by the victim on Saturday evening, a case was registered by Manesar police under sections 354A (sexual harassment), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) , 506 (criminal intimidation) and 34 of the IPC.

Four accused were arrested on Sunday morning from near an under-construction flyover in Manesar, the police said. Those arrested are Jitender alias Kala and Rakesh, residents of Sehrawan village; Sandeep, a resident of Manesar; and Vinod, a resident of Badshahpur in Gurgaon.

The victim is an executive with a Korean electronics conglomerate, police said.

The police said the incident happened near the polytechnic college on NH-48 near Sehrawan.

In her complaint, the woman told the police, We were coming from Jaipur to Gurgaon and it was around 4.40 pm. My friend stopped the car to show me the his college, which is just three minutes away from the main road. We could see hillocks and the Indian flag and Gurgaon city. I took a picture of the view and sent it to my family when suddenly, a guy came up to us and talked to my friend.

I could not understand what he was saying but my friend told me that we should go. Suddenly, four more guys came there and I found one of them filming us with his phone. I was shouting and asking them to stop filming us and then a guy threatened to kill us. They were trying to stop us and even grabbed my hand with a bad intention. I was crying till we reached the car from where we called the police, her complaint read.

The complainant also told police that the accused started taking pictures of her and also tried to take selfies and refused to stop even when asked to do so. However, when she strongly rebuffed them, they got angry and started abusing her while one of the them tried to hold her hand and the other tried pushing her friend. One of them also hit her friend twice. Despite the victim protesting and crying, the accused did not relent and continued to molest and harass her, she said.

The police said they had reached the incident spot immediately after the complaint was made by the victim.

The four accused have been arrested and they will be questioned. The police team acted immediately and managed to arrest them, Ravinder Kumar, PRO, Gurgaon police, said.The town and country planning wing of the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) is expected to organise a camp at its Sector 34 office in the last week of this month, tentatively between February 26-28, for on-the-spot approval of building plans and occupation certificates.

According to officials, the camp will fast track applications of residents and assist the MCG in clearing pendency of applications. On an average, around 200 applications were approved in each camp held previously.

Such camps are aimed at assisting the public in getting their buildings plans and completion certificates approved in the presence of staff members who can address doubts and grievances of the applicants on the spot. This speeds up the issuance, senior town planner Sudhir Singh Chauhan said.

MCG officials said they are expecting applicants from the list of 47 colonies that was sent to the state government for regularisation in December 2017, to benefit from the camp.

However, MCG officials did not disclose if localities falling under the lal dora areas will be eligible for licences.

The Punjab and Haryana high court is expected to take a call on legalisation of each colony depending on which fall under the lal dora areas.

Officials said that the state government has approved 20 colonies so far and applicants can look forward to regularising their properties and get development work done in their areas at a charge of 150 per square yard.

Rajesh Kumar, a resident of DLF Phase 2, said, I intend to construct a house on a plot in DLF Phase 2 and I am waiting for approval of the building plan. I am hoping that the MCG will be able to address the issue during the upcoming camp.

A completion certificate attests that a property built by an individual or developer complies with the rules and facilities listed under the building by-laws.

A building plan approval is a consent from the municipal corporation to the floor plan of an under-construction building in the bodys jurisdiction.Bhondsi villagers have planned to set up a meeting with Union home minister Rajnath Singh to seek the release of eight minors who were apprehended by the Gurgaon police in connection with the violence that broke out on January 24.

The minors are alleged to have been involved in the protests during which a school bus was pelted with stones and a Haryana Roadways bus was vandalised and set on fire. The protesters unleashed violence demanding a ban on the release of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmaavat.

The villagers said on Monday that despite an assurance by chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar on the release of the juveniles, who are currently lodged in the Faridabad observation home, no action has been taken by the police.

We met the chief minister thrice and the local MLA Tejpal Tanwar a dozen times, seeking the release of the minors who were wrongly apprehended. However, despite an assurance that they would be released soon, theres been no action on the ground, Sanjay Raghav, a village head, said.

We have now decided to set up a meeting with Rajnath Singh and urge him to look into the matter. Those apprehended are school and college -goers and one of them is 21 years old, an adult by law. He (the Union home minister) is our last hope in the matter, Anil Raghav, the father of one of the juveniles apprehended in connection with the Bhondsi violence on January 24, said.

Earlier, Davender Singh, the principal magistrate of the Juvenile Justice Board(JJB), Gurgaon, served a showcause notice on the station house officer of Bhondsi police station, directing him to explain the circumstances under which he had apprehended a 21-year-old student and produced him before the board as a juvenile.

The reports submitted by the legal-cum-probation officer before the JJ Board has the statements of the family members and the neighbours claiming that those apprehended were framed by the police and have no involvement in the case.

The Bhondsi SHO is to appear in person in the court on February 14 and explain why action should not be initiated against him in the matter.

Earlier, the villagers met officials of the special investigation team(SIT) team and requested them to conduct a fair inquiry into the case. The 12-member SIT, formed by the Gurgaon police commissioner, includes assistant commissioners of police (ACPs), inspectors and assistant sub-inspectors (ASIs) under the supervision of DCP (South) Ashok Bakshi.

Multiple charges were framed on the juveniles, including an attempt to murder, rioting, snatching, damaging government property and preventing government employees from discharging their duty.

The Gurgaon police said the matter is under investigation and the challan is yet to be produced before the court. We would like to reassure villagers that those apprehended wont be charged if found innocent. We are making every effort to verify facts, the Gurgaon police PRO said.Get Out and Call Me by Your Name won top prizes at the Writers Guild of America Awards Sunday, three weeks before the Oscars, the glittering climax of Hollywoods awards season.

Writer-director Jordan Peele picked up the trophy for best original screenplay for Get Out, a dark satire of the African-American experience and liberal white guilt.

This was a passion project. It was something I put my love into, I put my soul into, so getting this from you means so much, Peele said as he picked up his trophy.

Kumail Nanjiani (L) and Emily V. Gordon attend the 2018 Writers Guild Awards L.A. Ceremony at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on February 11, 2018 in Beverly Hills, California. (AFP)

I started writing it in 2008 and there were a lot of ups and downs.

The film, starring Daniel Kaluuya, has already landed Peele best first time feature at the Directors Guild of America Awards and is nominated for four statuettes at the Oscars, to be held on March 4.

Get Out beat out The Big Sick, I, Tonya, Lady Bird and The Shape of Water.

The evening was hosted for the third year in a row by Emmy and Grammy-winning actor, writer and comedian Patton Oswalt, who began by light-heartedly chastising the WGA for bringing him back.

Guillermo del Toro, right, director/co-writer of The Shape of Water, and co-writer Vanessa Taylor pose together at the 2018 Writers Guild Awards at the Beverly Hilton on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018. (Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)

Given the current atmosphere, maybe get a female host next year. There are hilarious comedians and writers out there, he said.

James Ivory scooped the prize for best adapted screenplay for his work transforming Andre Acimans 2007 novel Call Me by Your Name into the film of the same name, starring Timothee Chalamet.

Luca Guadagninos paean to the universal heartbreak of first love, set in 1980s northern Italy, bested highly-touted rivals, including The Disaster Artist, Logan, Mollys Game and Mudbound.

It is also nominated for four Oscars, including nods for Ivorys screenplay, best picture, best actor for Chalamet and best original song.

Best documentary screenplay went to Brett Morgen for Jane, a study of the life and work of celebrated primatologist Jane Goodall, whose groundbreaking chimpanzee research revolutionized peoples understanding of the natural world.

In the television category, Hulus The Handmaids Tale won both best drama and best new series, while HBOs Veep took best comedy series.

The WGAs is one of Hollywoods last major prize-giving ceremonies ahead of the Academy Awards.

It is not considered as reliable a predictor of Oscars glory as the other guilds prizegiving nights, however, as members can only shortlist scripts written under WGA guidelines or those of several international partners.

Follow @htshowbiz for moreNew Yorks attorney general is accusing Hollywood movie producer Harvey Weinstein of repeatedly and persistently sexually harassing female employees at his film company, according to a lawsuit filed on Sunday by the state prosecutor that could impact the companys potential sale.

As alleged in our complaint, The Weinstein Company repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation, and discrimination, state attorney general Eric Schneiderman said in court papers filed against Weinstein and the company.

Schneiderman launched a civil rights probe into the New York City-based company in October after The New York Times and The New Yorker exposed allegations of sexual assault and harassment spanning decades.

Weinsteins attorney, Ben Brafman, released a statement Sunday evening saying many of the allegations against his client are without merit.

While Weinsteins behaviour was not without fault, there certainly was no criminality, and at the end of the inquiry it will be clear that Harvey Weinstein promoted more women to key executive positions than any other industry leader and there was zero discrimination at either Miramax or TWC, Brafman said.

Scores of women, including well-known actresses, have come forward with stories of forced sexual encounters.

Weinstein was fired by the film company he founded with his brother Robert and expelled from Hollywoods movie academy.

The attorney generals office said the lawsuit was filed on Sunday partly due to reports of the companys imminent sale, saying it believed it would leave victims without adequate redress.

Any sale of The Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enables will be unjustly enriched, court papers said.

Schneidermans investigation found that employees were subjected to various verbal threats from Weinstein such as I will kill you, I will kill your family, and you dont know what I can do.

To work for Harvey Weinstein was to work under a persistent barrage of gender-based obscenities, vulgar name- calling, sexualized interactions, threats of violence, and a workplace general hostile to women, according to court papers.

In one case, the probe found that in a fit of rage against one female employee, he yelled that she should leave the company and make babies since that was all she was good for.

Female executives were forced to facilitate Weinsteins sexual conquests with promises of employment opportunities to women who met his favor, according to the lawsuit, which also accused the company of being responsible for the unlawful conduct by failing to stop the abuse.

The company and co-owner Robert are liable because they were aware of and acquiesced in repeated and persistent unlawful conduct by failing to investigate or stop it, court papers said.

Representatives for Weinstein have previously denied all accusations of non-consensual sex.Pakistan warned India against cross-border strikes in Kashmir after Indian authorities blamed a Pakistan-based group for an attack on an army camp in which soldiers and their families were targeted.

Saturdays attack on the camp near Jammu was the worst in months, with five soldiers and the father of one of the soldiers killed and women and children among the 10 wounded.

India said the heavily armed attackers were members of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militant group, drawing criticism from Pakistan about rushing to judgment without a full inquiry.

It is a well established pattern that Indian officials begin making irresponsible statements and levelling unfounded allegations, even before any proper investigation in any incident has been initiated, Pakistans foreign ministry said in a statement.

India, it said, was making these allegations to divert attention from its brutality in trying to control the armed revolt in Kashmir, and warned against any retaliatory measures across the Line of Control.

We hope that the international community would urge India to stop the untold atrocities and gross violations of human rights in IoK (Indian Occupied Kashmir) (and) refrain from any misadventure across the Line of Control... it said.

India has long accused Pakistan of training and arming militants and helping them infiltrate across the Line of Control into Jammu and Kashmir.

The chief of the Jammu and Kashmir police, SP Vaid, told reporters over the weekend that they had communications intercepts pointing to the JeM.

The army said the attackers wore fatigues and had assault rifles, a grenade launcher and grenades.

In 2016, India said its elite troops had crossed the Line of Control into Pakistan and carried out a raid on militants after 19 soldiers were killed in an attack on an Indian army base in Kashmir. Pakistan denies giving material aid to the militants in Kashmir.

On Monday, Indian soldiers foiled an attack on another camp in Srinagar.A little over a year ago, Indian consul general Dinesh Bhatia arrived at the Ontario Khalsa Darbar, better known as the Dixie Gurdwara, in the Toronto suburb of Mississauga. He was there to attend a ceremony in memory of a senior member of the community who had recently passed away. He was accompanied by two members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police or RCMP -- part of the protective detail provided by the Canadian government to Indian diplomats in the country. As some members of the gurdwara professed anger over the presence of the policemen, the incident set off a chain of events leading to the boycott of Indian officials by multiple gurdwaras across Canada  a phenomenon that later spread to other nations such as the UK, the US, and Australia.

The disquiet may have been caused less by the Mounties and more by an Indian diplomat entering the premises of a place like the Dixie Gurdwara, once considered off limits for New Delhis envoys to Canada. It drew an immediate reaction from hardliners such as the activist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). By February, the group had sent a communique to Canadas foreign affairs minister Chrystia Freeland, asking her to take notice of the activities of the Indian diplomats posted in Canada which have the potential of creating disharmony and discontent among the peaceful Canadian Sikh community.

Approaching the foreign minister is an initial step towards blocking Indian diplomats from attending events in Canadian Gurdwaras, the SFJs legal advisor Gurpatwant Singh Pannun warned.

As 2017 wound down, those words proved prophetic. While the original Punjab separatist movement of the 1980s was rooted in Punjab, and thereafter spread abroad, a new version of the campaign is slowly emerging. The ban is one manifestation  being spurred by the diaspora, particularly in Canada. The objective, which worries the governments in both New Delhi and Chandigarh, is to have it exported back into India as the second coming of Khalistan.

At a meeting on December 30 at the Jot Prakash Gurdwara in the Canadian city of Brampton, the Ontario Gurdwara Committee (OGC), which claims to represent nearly 15 gurdwaras in the province, imposed a ban on Indian officials, including elected representatives, from entering their premises while in their official capacities. Among those leading the group was Dixie Gurdwaras president Gurpreet Singh Bal, who said the reasons behind the move included the Indian governments interference in the community. Within days, the boycott movement had spread across other Canadian provinces of Quebec, British Columbia and Alberta, and beyond its borders to America, the UK, and most recently, Melbourne in Australia. Soon after we made the announcement, support started pouring in from various countries. The only reason that came to my mind is that in every country the Sikh community was suffering from Indian consulates infiltration, said Sukhminder Singh Hansra, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (Canada East) and a prominent pro-Khalistan activist.

A senior Indian official was disturbed by the development. Its totally coordinated, he said, requesting anonymity. Other than Indias deputy high commissioner in the UK, diplomats have refrained from commenting on this issue, pointing instead to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, who noted: We take no cognisance of fringe elements which spread hate and communal disharmony.

But the government has certainly been taken unawares by the move. Vishnu Prakash, who was till October 2016 Indias high commissioner to Ottawa, said, I did not see this coming. One of the tenets of Sikhism is that places of worship are open to everybody. This is what they take pride in. I think this is a rather unfortunate development and I get a sense that radicals have become emboldened.

AS THE BAN VIRUS SPREADS From Canada, the phenomenon later reached other nations such as the UK, the US, and Australia 2017

 January: Indias Consul General in Toronto, Dinesh Bhatia, visits Dixie gurdwara, a temple once considered a bastion of extremist elements.

 February : Sikhs for Justice writes to Canadas Minister of Foreign Affairs complaining about such visits by Indian officials.

 December 30: Ontario Gurdwara Committee announces ban on Indian officials visiting 15 temples in the province. 2018

 January 4: Some gurdwaras in British Columbia and Alberta join the ban.

 January 5: Similar ban in proposed in the United Kingdom.

 January 7: Gurdwaras in Quebec join; a similar announcement relating to gurdwaras in the United States is issued in New York.

 January 10: MEA states it takes "no cognisance of fringe elements which spread hate and communal disharmony."

 Mid-January: Members of managements of three gurdwaras announce this was not a decision taken by their executive committees, refute ban. This includes Dixie Gurdwara.

 January 22: Gurdwara in Melbourne, Australia, announces ban.

 January 25: Two more gurdwara managements in Ontario state they were not consulted while imposing ban; say they "never consented" to decision. Indias Consul General in Toronto, Dinesh Bhatia, visits Dixie gurdwara, a temple once considered a bastion of extremist elements.Sikhs for Justice writes to Canadas Minister of Foreign Affairs complaining about such visits by Indian officials.Ontario Gurdwara Committee announces ban on Indian officials visiting 15 temples in the province.Some gurdwaras in British Columbia and Alberta join the ban.Similar ban in proposed in the United Kingdom.Gurdwaras in Quebec join; a similar announcement relating to gurdwaras in the United States is issued in New York.MEA states it takes "no cognisance of fringe elements which spread hate and communal disharmony."Members of managements of three gurdwaras announce this was not a decision taken by their executive committees, refute ban. This includes Dixie Gurdwara.Gurdwara in Melbourne, Australia, announces ban.Two more gurdwara managements in Ontario state they were not consulted while imposing ban; say they "never consented" to decision.

In fact, the Narendra Modi government had introduced a slew of measures to woo some hardliners away from separatism. That outreach effort commenced with his bilateral visit to Canada, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 42 years, in 2015. Among the stops on his schedule was the Khalsa Diwan Societys historic Ross Street Gurdwara in Vancouver. The visa blacklist was pruned, even refugees were given travel documents, back-channel talks with some Khalistanis started, and visits by Indian officials to gurdwaras was part of the package.

As these initiatives were undertaken, extremist elements criticised each of these measures, particularly that of Indian diplomats visiting gurdwaras earlier considered off limits for them. There was anger at these bastions being breached. The backlash focused on the government behind the moves, the BJP-led NDA administration. This led to the recent inclusion on members of the BJPs parent organisation, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, in the proscribed list.

Though the movement espousing the ban on Indian officials has been widespread, it has also suffered from pushback. Four members of the management committee of the Dixie Gurdwara came out against the ban stating they were not aware of this decision, and this issue was never discussed in the committee meeting and no resolution was passed. They were joined by two more gurdwaras in Brampton. In recent days, the Sikh Spiritual Center in Toronto also opposed the ban, while members of the management of Sikh Society Hamilton Wentworths Gursikh Temple sent a letter to the India Consulate in Toronto stating they never consented to the decision taken at the OGC meet.

That, however, hasnt fazed those behind the ban action, like Hansra, who said, The formal approval of the ban was not required since almost every gurdwara already had an unwritten ban on the consulate general and Indian officials imposed for past 30 years. Any director who does not agree with the ban, does not change the position of the gurdwara in anyway.

Ironically, the pro-boycott forces will not take any action against those who oppose the ban.

Among the reasons observers see for this trend of resurgence of pro-Khalistan sentiment in Canada is vote-bank politics. Canada may be emerging as the epicentre of these radical elements. They find a permissive climate there. There is a broad level of coordination, but my sense is that there is no apex-level coordination and other hardliners take a cue when events like these occur. Certainly, Canada is a friendly country but it is allowing a platform to radical elements, Prakash said.

Shinder Purewal, professor of political science at the Kwantlen Polytechnic University in British Columbia said, What has prompted the move is closely related to the success of Sikh politicians directly, or indirectly, associated with Khalistani movement. Its a bold move to assert the secessionist upsurge in local, provincial and federal governments in Canada, and similarly in UK and USA. Its a popular move among people who are treated like sub-humans by Indian consulate.

The Canadian government has argued it can do little about the propagation of Khalistan in the country due to its freedom of expression rights. But Prakash said, When there is a will, there are so many ways to do it. Even soft measures can neutralise these elements. Among those could be their sources of funding could come under greater scrutiny, he felt. This matter is almost certain to weigh upon the imminent weeklong visit of Canadian PM Justin Trudeau to India.

For now, though, there remains concern the ban virus could spread further, as Avtar Singh Pannu, member of the American Gurdwara Prabhandik Committee, indicated, After the US, we will campaign to ban the entry of Indian diplomats across European nations also as activities of the Indian diplomats have created disharmony and discontent among the peaceful Sikh community.

This chorus of attacks on the Indian state across countries could crescendo closer to the non-binding 2020 Referendum for an independent Punjab among Sikhs abroad.Protesters in Uttar Pradeshs Allahabad city staged a demonstration and set a bus on fire on Monday after a 24-year-old Dalit student, who was attacked by a group of men with bricks and iron rods, died of his injuries, police said.

Dilip Saroj, a law student at Allahabad Degree College, died at a private hospital early on Sunday morning.

The bus was on its way to Teliyarganj when some youths stopped it and asked the passengers and the driver to step out. The poured some inflammable material on the bus and set it on fire, a police official said.

The official said that fire-tenders reached the spot and doused the fire but the bus was completely gutted. They added that the driver, conductor and all the passengers of the bus were safe.

We are trying to identify the trouble-makers. Strict action will be initiated against them, senior superintendent of police Akash Kulhary said as he took stock of the situation and spoke to eyewitnesses.

Later, inspector general of police Ramit Sharma also reached the spot.

A group of protesters earlier held a demonstration at Colonelganj police station demanding the arrest of the people involved in the incident.

Police said they also took out a procession from the Colonelganj police station to the district magistrates office.

They, however, are yet to ascertain if the same people torched the bus.

Saroj was beaten up after an altercation with some people at a restaurant in Katra area on Saturday night. He was dragged out of the restaurant and attacked with iron rods and bricks.

His murder triggered outrage on social media after videos of the assault shot by people at the eatery was shared on WhatsApp and Facebook.

One of the three suspects was arrested on the basis of the video and three policemen, including the Katra police outpost in-charge, were suspended for negligence after the murder.

Colonelganj police stations inspector Awadhesh Singh said Munna Singh Chauhan, a waiter at the restaurant who was seen attacking Saroj on his head with a stick in a CCTV footage, was arrested on Sunday.

Police have also detained restaurant owner Amit Upadhyay. The other three accused, including a travelling ticket examiner (TTE) Vijay Shankar of Sultanpur, are still at large, Singh added.The former principal of Delhi Public School, Indore, Sudarshan Sonar was arrested on Monday on charges of negligence in ensuring the safety of students.

Four students and a driver were killed on January 5 when the bus carrying them collided with a truck on the Indore bypass. Two students are still battling for their life in the ICU of a private hospital. According to the police, the bus driver had flagged the problems in the vehicle to the school authorities but they did not pay any heed to his complaint.

After the accident, Indore collector Nishant Warwade ordered a magisterial probe in the matter.

Read | Indore school bus accident: Inquiry report blames DPS management

City superintendent of police , Indore, Jayant Rathod said, Sudarshan Sonar, who was the principal when the accident took place, was found guilty of negligence in the magisterial probe. Sonar was held responsible for not following the CBSE and collector guidelines to ensure safety of the children. He did not take any action even after the driver apprised him of the problems in the 14-year-old bus.

The parents of the students had organised a condolence meeting on February 5 and staged a protest, demanding action against the school. They also urged people to press the NOTA button on EVMs in the upcoming assembly polls as they blamed CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan for failing to punish the guilty.The Congress released its manifesto for the February 18 Tripura polls on Monday, promising an organisation for the welfare of journalists, making education accessible to all, a committee to review farmers debt and rehabilitation of displaced persons.

The 24-page manifesto comes in the wake of killing of two local journalists in the recent past and promises life insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh to accredited journalists, apart from providing them low-cost housing and loans at concessional rates. The Congress also promised their safety and freedom of speech to them.

Keeping the legacy of the royals in mind, the party promised to rename the Agartala Airport after the last king, Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Deb Burman, and establish a super-speciality hospital after Kirit Bikram Kishore Deb Burman, father of the present head of Manikya dynasty  Pradyot Kishore Deb Burman.

Like the BJP, the Congress promised action against the accused in the Rose Valley chit fund scam. We will constitute a high-level committee to investigate all kinds of corruption, including the chit fund scam under the Left regime, and ensure that the 14 lakh people who invested in the fund get their money back, said Puducherry chief minister V Narayanasamy, while releasing the manifesto.

Regarding indigenous communities, the party said it would ensure transfer of centrally allocated funds directly to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, giving them priority in local administration, stopping illegal transfer of their land and setting up a cultural academy to promote their art.

The Congress also assured that it would create employment, provide better healthcare facilities, increase wages of unorganised labourers to Rs 300 per day and form a committee to review debts of farmers. Women safety, rehabilitation of displaced persons, promoting tourism and industrial growth were other issues the party promised to look into.India and Pakistan traded dire warnings on Monday in the aftermath of the weekend strike on Jammus Sunjuwan military station, scaling up the prospect of a cross-border retaliation.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman accused Pakistan of helping Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militants launch the attack, warning that the neighbour will have to pay for this misadventure as she visited the camp where five soldiers and a civilian were killed.

Pakistan earlier warned New Delhi to refrain from any misadventure across the Line of Control... in an apparent reference to Indias military action of September 29, 2016 that was described as a surgical strike to avenge a militant attack on an army base in Uri that led to the deaths of 19 soldiers.

Terrorists belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, sponsored by Azhar Masood residing in Pakistan and deriving support from there, Sitharaman said, citing intelligence reports that said the attackers were being controlled by handlers from across the border.

India has long been asking for JeM chief Masood Azhar to be designated an international terrorist by the United Nations, a move that has been blocked by China.

Evidence is being scrutinised by the National Investigation Agency. Pakistan is expanding the arch of terror to areas south of Pir Panjal and resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration, Sitharaman added.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman hugs a person wounded in the militant attack at Sunjuwan army camp, in a military hospital in Jammu on Monday. (PTI)

But Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti said hours earlier that a dialogue with Pakistan was the only option to end violence in the Jammu and Kashmir. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of Jammu & Kashmir are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option, she told the state assembly in Jammu. Mufti is the chief of the Peoples Democratic Party, which is in coalition with the Bharatiya Janata Party that rules at the Centre.

India and Pakistan have fought enough wars. They must now hold talks to resolve the problem of continuing violence in the state. How long will we make sacrifices? How long we will keep bearing the brunt of this violence? Mufti said.

There are many options available to the government in terms of paying back Pakistan in the same coin. Since the defence minister has spoken about it, I am sure the options are being deliberated upon at the moment, said Lt General DS Hooda, former Northern Army commander.

On Monday, soldiers killed the last of the attackers in Sunjuwan military base even as a separate group of militants tried to enter a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp in Srinagar. One paramilitary constable died in the gunfight, while the attackers fled to a nearby building. A gunfight between them and security forces went on till late evening.

In Delhi, Union home minister Rajnath Singh held a meeting of top defence officials to discuss the attacks. An official aware of the discussion, while requesting anonymity, said the minister asked for perimeter security around military bases in Jammu & Kashmir to be strengthened and efforts be made to reduce civilian casualties.

Those who attended the meeting included Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba and director of Intelligence Bureau Rajiv Jain.

The attack in Sunjuwan was the deadliest on the Indian army since late 2016. On November 29 that year, seven soldiers  two of them officers  were killed in Nagrota, Jammu when armed militants attacked the base.Not long ago, Indian army chief General Bipin Rawats preference for high-end technology over manual protection of army installations proved to be a problem not too far away from his South Block office. As a test case, Rawat asked for motion sensors to be installed for perimeter protection at the Manekshaw Centre in the Delhi cantonment. The idea was to free up vital human resources.

The experiment wasnt successful because motion sensors started picking up trucks using the National Highway 48, which runs close to the Manekshaw Centre, setting off numerous false alarms at the control centre.

The situation at the Uri brigade headquarters, which the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) attacked on September 18, 2016, and led to India responding with a surgical strike across the Line of Control 10 days later, had been no different when motion sensors were installed there.

The sensors were causing the Uri perimeter security all kinds of problems, with alarms going off every time a vehicle passed the Salmabad highway towards Chakoti-Muzafarabad in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

While the United States is willing to offer perimeter protection security to India that not only detects motion but also launches a pre-emptive grenade attack once the threat is identified, Indian forces have little option but to use electrified fences, concertina wires and manual patrolling because of civilian activity near these once-remote army installations.

Spread over seven square kilometres, the stage of the latest attack, Sunjuwan is one of the biggest army installations in Jammu.

The NH 44 runs right next to it and builders are advertising the newly constructed villas coming up not far away.

The Sunjuwan camp was attacked by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militants on the morning of February 10, a day after the five-year anniversary of the hanging of Parliament attack accused Afzal Guru.

The attackers breached the perimeter security, killed five army personnel and one civilian, and injured 10 others including six women and children. Sunjuwan is merely 20 minutes from the Kaluchak army camp, which was attacked by the LeT on May 14, 2002, killing 31 people including family members of army personnel.

While the Modi government has provided Rs 1,487 crore towards perimeter protection of army bases, there is an urgent need to ensure that growing civilian population does not encroach on cantonments. The proximity of the civilian population with army or military installations makes both vulnerable  particularly in the troubled state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Read | Sunjuwan army camp attack: 7 times Indian security forces were targeted

Though Pakistan army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa told the Senate in Islamabad last December that he wanted peace with India and Pakistans national security adviser Naseer Janjua reiterated that to his Indian counterpart in Bangkok, increasing ceasefire violations and terror attacks clearly show that the Indian military needs to be on constant alert and needs better protection of its bases.

For fewer casualties in case of attacks, the defence ministry must ensure isolation of army installations from civilian populations and then use high-end security devices to secure them. Otherwise, Indian security forces will continue to suffer losses during surprise attacks on its bases because it is virtually impossible to be on red alert 24x7, 365 days a year.The Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) on Monday lauded militants for the attack on the Sunjuwan military station in Jammu in which nine people were killed, including three militants, even as it claimed responsibility for shoot-out near a CRPF camp in Srinagar on Monday.

Local news agencies that generally receive statements from the group earlier reported that LeT chief Mehmood Shah said that the militants of the outfit were involved in both attacks.

The LeT paid tributes to the slain militants and taunted the Indian forces over the knowledge of war tactics.

The militants, who India thinks are from the Jaish-e-Mohammad group, had launched a pre-dawn attack on the military station housing soldiers of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantrys 36th Brigade and their families on Saturday.

A soldiers father and five military personnel were killed in the assault that continued till Sunday night, while about a dozen people were wounded.

Jaish, however, has not officially claimed responsibility.

A constable was killed in a separate attack on a CRPF camp in the Karan Nagar area of Srinagar early Monday. Inspector general of police SP Pani said two militants are suspected to be holed up in a building adjacent to the camp after the CRPF prevented them from getting into the protected area.

The LeT claimed responsibility for this attack as well. The outfits chief said militants of the Lashkar-e-Taiba continue to seize control of the stronghold in Karan Nagar.

The LeT, responsible for the 2008 Mumbai attacks that left 166 people dead, is known to be active in Kashmir along with the Jaish and Hizbul Mujaheedin groups.

According to a CRPF spokesperson, a guard at the Karan Nagar camp fired when he noticed two armed men walking towards the gates around 4am. The duo ran towards the bylanes and fired at a search party from abandoned buildings nearby. The gunfight is on, he said.

CRPF trooper Mujahid Khan, a resident of Bihar and part of the 49 Battalion, was killed in the firing.

The gunfight came on the day the army was paying tribute to five of its men killed in Sunjuwan. Four of them were Kashmiris, while one was from the Jammu region.

Besieged by the back-to-back militant attacks and cross-border firing and shelling by the Pakistani army, Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti called for a dialogue with the neighbouring nation for peace to return to the state.

A dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end the bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option, she said in a series of tweets.

(This story has been updated with latest inputs)The Maharashtra government said on Monday that the petitions demanding an independent probe into the death of Special CBI judge BH Loya were an attempt to scandalise and sensationalise the death of a judge.

Appearing for the Devendra Fadnavis-led government, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi told the Supreme Court that nothing is amiss, the state government has done a discreet inquiry and curtains have been brought down on the case. The allegations are baseless and bereft of facts.

Criticising the petitioners who had moved the SC, Rohatgi said: Nobody does anything for three years. Neither the aggrieved parties nor the so-called petitioners did anything before the court. Suddenly, there is an article in a magazine and a flurry of petitions are filed as if people have woken up from a slumber.

The state government also questioned the petitioners credentials, stating that nothing was known of their background or their source of information.

Highlighting the statements of the judges who were with Loya at the time of his death, Rohatgi said: Unless the statements of the judges are rejected and they declared conspirators in the case, the court cannot order a further investigation.

Loya, who was hearing the Sohrabuddin Sheikh encounter case, had died of a cardiac arrest on December 1, 2014, when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleagues daughter in Nagpur. In November 2017, media reports quoting Loyas sister had fuelled suspicion over the circumstances surrounding his death.

Rohatgi rebutted the indirect charges levelled against BJP president Amit Shah in the PILs and said: Just because there was a person of a national party so everything is done by this person. The person told the four judges to give statements in a particular manner, all are insinuations.

The hearing in the case will resume on February 16.Five soldiers and a civilian were killed in two days of fighting between the Indian Army and militants who attacked a military base in Jammu. Actor Kamal Haasan said he wont ally with Rajinikanth because the superstars politics has a hue of saffron. These stories made news on Sunday. Here is more about them.

5 soldiers and civilian killed in militant attack on Jammu Army camp

Five soldiers and a civilian were killed in two days of fighting between the Indian Army and militants who invaded a residential area of the Sunjwan military camp on the outskirts of Jammu. Three militants were killed in the attack which began Saturday when security forces were on high alert for the fifth death anniversary of Afzal Guru, the Kashmiri terrorist hanged to death for his role in the 2001 Parliament attack.

71 killed as Russian airliner crashes near Moscow

A Russian airliner that had just taken off from the countrys second-busiest airport crashed on Sunday, killing all 71 people aboard and scattering jagged chunks of wreckage across a snowy field outside Moscow. The Saratov Airlines flight disappeared from radar just minutes after departure for the city of Orsk, some 1,500 kilometers to the southeast.

We will make your dreams a reality: PM tells Indian diaspora in Dubai

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said ties between India and the United Arab Emirates ties go beyond trade and both countries will work together to fulfil the dreams of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf country. The dreams you have here and in India, I assure you, we will make them reality before the set timeframe, he said in Dubai. He thanked the Gulf countries--home to nearly 3.3 million strong Indian diaspora--for providing them a home away from home.

No alliance with Rajinikanth if he goes saffron: Kamal Haasan

Actor Kamal Haasan said he wont ally with Rajinikanth because his politics has a hue of saffron , alluding that the Tamil movie superstar is inclined towards the Bharatiya Janata Party. My politics will definitely not be saffron, said Hassan, referring to Hindu identity politics. Rajinikanth and Haasan announced recently they are joining politics to fight corruption and provide Tamil Nadu with a transparent and responsive government after the death of chief minister J Jayalalithaa destabilised the state.

Israel will not allow entrenchment of Irans military in Syria: Netanyahu

Israel said it will not allow Iran to establish a military presence in Syria, after it launched air raids on what it said were Iranian targets in its Arab neighbour.

Israel wants peace but we will continue to defend ourselves with determination against any attack on us and against any attempt by Iran to entrench itself militarily in Syria or anywhere else, said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Pakistani human rights activist Asma Jahangir dies

Pakistani human rights activist and lawyer Asma Jahangir passed away at 66 in Lahore. Jahangir was a co-founder of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and served at its secretary general and then as chairperson. She was also the co-chair of South Asians for Human Rights. She was appointed UN Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial, Arbitrary or Summary Executions and later as the UN Rapporteur of Freedom of Religion or Belief. She was put under house arrest twice for opposing military rule in the country.

Muslim group expels cleric for suggesting that Babri masjid be shifted

Moulana Sayyed Salman Hussaini Nadvi, the cleric who had suggested that the Babri Masjid be shifted from its disputed site in Ayodhya to another place, was expelled by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board. The AIMPLB, which is meeting in Hyderabad, said Nadvi was expelled because he diverged from the organisations unanimous stand that the mosque cannot be gifted, sold or shifted.

BJP releases vision document for Tripura

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley released the Bharatiya Janata Partys vision document for Tripura, which votes for 60 assembly seats on February 18. Himanta Biswa Sarma, senior Assam minister and the BJP leader handling Tripura elections, said implementing recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission for Tripura government employees is a key promise in the document.

RBI still processing returned notes 15 months after demonetisation

The RBI has said that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, returned to banks when the government demonetised them in November 2016, are still being processed for their arithmetical accuracy and genuineness. This is being done in an expedited manner, the central bank said.

Nearly 400 vacancies for judges in high courts

Vacancies for judges in Indias 24 high courts breached the 400-mark on February 1, according to statistics provided by the law ministry but were brought down on Saturday, with the appointment of five judges to the Karnataka high court. The latest data released by the ministrys department of justice showed that 403 of the total 1,079 posts of judges were vacant on February 1, up from 397 a month ago.Opposition parties on Monday demanded an apology from RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for his insulting and poor remarks against the Indian Army even as the right-wing organisation said his comments were being misrepresented.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi criticised Bhagwat for his remarks that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh could prepare military personnel faster than the army and accused him of disrespecting the force and those who have died for the nation in a post on Twitter.

It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS, Gandhi tweeted.

Senior Congress leader and spokesperson Anand Sharma also said Bhagwats sad and disturbing statement was a direct insult to the Indian armed forces.

Sharma added that nations which have allowed private militias and military outfits independent of the countrys armed forces to fight for it have come to grief and have paid a heavy price. He cited examples of Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Somalia and Congo, and said India cannot allow such a development.

The RSS chief should apologise to the country and the armed forces, as he has put a question mark on the capability and bravery of the Indian Army. Such statements and thoughts weaken the morale of our armed forces, he said.

The Congress leader said his party and its workers are opposing his statement across the country.

The Prime Minister of India will have to clarify his position on this, on whether he is thinking of allowing the work of national security to be handed over to the RSS other than the Indian Army, Sharma said.

We expect that this mistake be rectified as it is not in national interest and we take this very seriously as the entire country is disturbed.

CPI(M) leader and Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said Bhagwats comments on the Indian Army were in poor taste, against constitutional propriety.

His statement exposes RSS hidden agenda to float parallel militias to wreak havoc, crush national unity. A parallel army is talking about what we have always warned against. Hindu terror, he added.

As the criticism mounted RSS spokesperson Manmohan Vaidya clarified in a statement that Bhagwat said if the countrys law calls for raising an armed force, the preparation time for ordinary citizens would be six months, but volunteers of the RSS would take a shorter time to be ready, because of the army-like discipline that they follow.

This was no way a comparison between the Indian Army and the Sangh swayamsevaks but it was a comparison between general society and swayamsevaks. Both are to be trained by the Indian Army only, Vaidya said.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also defended the RSS chiefs remarks and hit out at the Congress, saying it should not try to politicise the army.

Indian Army is our pride. In emergency situation (not Congress emergency), every Indian must volunteer to stand with Defence Forces. Bhagwat ji only said it takes 6-7 months for a person to be a trained soldier & if Constitution permits RSS cadres has the ability to contribute (sic), the minister of state for home said in a tweet.

Rijiju targeted the Congress in another tweet saying who had asked for proof of surgical strike from Indian Army?

... Congress tried to dilute the Army in 2004 on religious lines by head counting but Army firmly stood the ground, he said.

Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) attacked Rijiju for his tweet defending Bhagwat and alleged that it has become even more evident that the government is being remote-controlled by the Sangh.

A minister of the government is supporting and defending the RSS. Kiren Rijiju is not a minister of state but a minister of Sangh, Trinamool Congress leader Derek OBrien said.

The Trinamool is likely to give notices in the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha on what it called the breakdown of constitutional institutions in the second half of the budget session of Parliament.

The RSS chief, who is in Bihar on a 10-day visit, reportedly said on Sunday that the outfit has the ability to prepare an army to fight for the country within three days which the army would do in six to seven months.

This is our capability. Swayamsevaks will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and the Constitution permits, Bhagwat told RSS workers at the Zila school ground in Muzaffarpur.Aiming at stopping the BJP and its alliance partner from compromising the way of life of the people of Nagaland, the Congress has said it would support secular party candidates in seats where it is not contesting in the Assembly election.

Congress is contesting on 19 seats in the February 27 election for the 60-member Assembly. Twenty of its candidates had filed nomination but one of them withdrew candidature.

The decision is aimed at stopping the BJP and its alliance partner from compromising the rights of our people and our way of life, the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) said in a statement.

The Congress has directed its rank and file to back secular party candidates to save the people from sinking in the Hindutva quicksand, the Congress statement said.

The BJP has formed an alliance with the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) led by three times former chief minister and sitting MP, Neiphiu Rio. The BJP and the NDPP would contest in 20 and 40 seats respectively.

The Congress welcomed secular minded parties and leaders to form a broad consensus to provide a secular and stable government and to stop the Hindutva forces in the state.

The party also expressed shocked at formation of the alliance between the BJP and the NDPP.

It is also shocking that the NDPP decided to share Nagaland Assembly seats with the BJP by providing them 20 seats ignoring the cry and fear of the people, it said adding that the NPCC has been campaigning about the danger of Hindutva for over two and a half years.

The NDPP leaders are all fully aware of how minorities and minority religions are persecuted and are suffering under the BJP rule, the statement said.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said his visit to Oman and talks with the oil-rich Gulf nations top leadership will impart a substantial momentum to all spheres of bilateral ties.

This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come, Modi tweeted before concluding his two-day visit to Oman during which the two countries signed eight agreements, including one on enhancing defence cooperation.

This visit has helped in building upon the centuries-old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations, Modi said.

Thank you Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos (bin Said al Said) for your exceptional warmth, hospitality and friendship, as also your personal attention to details, that made my visit to Oman one of the most memorable visits I have undertaken anywhere, the prime minister said.

Modi also expressed gratitude to the Sultan and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection.

We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman, he said as he concluded his three-nation visit to the Palestine, the UAE and Oman.

Modi, who arrived here from Dubai on the final leg of his three-nation tour, led talks with Sultan Qaboos last night on a wide range of issues.

During the meeting, several aspects of the existing cooperation between the two countries and means of promoting the good relations between them were discussed, the official Oman News Agency reported.

Charting out new frontiers in our bilateral relationship, PM @narendramodi led delegation-level talks with Sultan Qaboos of Oman. The two strategic partners discussed to strengthen cooperation in trade & investment, energy, defence & security, food security and regional issues, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Sultan Qaboos appreciated the contribution of honest and hard working Indian nationals in the development of Oman.

After their talks, the two sides signed eight agreements, including an MoU on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

They also signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports and an MoU on cooperation in the field of health, tourism and peaceful uses of outer space.

The two sides also signed annexure to the MoU on military cooperation. According to Oman News Agency, it envisages the services of Duqm Port and dry-dock for maintenance for Indian military vessels.

Secretary-General of Omans Ministry of Defence Mohammed bin Nasser al Rasbi said there are many areas of cooperation with the Indian side, whether in the field of joint exercises, training or courses, as well as exchange of experiences between the two sides and some defence purchases and projects.

Indias Ambassador Indra Man Pandey said that signing the MoUs will promote cooperation between the two friendly countries.

He said that the Indian companies have a strong presence in Oman and have significant investments in the Omani free zones and ports in Suhar and Salalah. He said Indian investments are estimated at USD 1.8 billion in two projects in Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZD).

The volume of trade exchange during this year is expected to reach USD 5.5 billion, Pandey was quoted as saying.

The two countries also signed an agreement on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Omans Diplomatic Institute.

An MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

Modi today met Omans Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said and Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said.

Modi and the two leaders exchanged views on intensifying ties in the areas of energy, trade and investment, food security, defence and security, mining and other sectors.

He also had a meeting with leading business leaders and investors.

Modi also offered prayers at the 125-year-old Shiva Temple, one of the oldest in the region. He also visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the main mosque in Oman.

In Oman, there are over eight lakh Indians and they constitute the largest expatriate community. The prime minister had also addressed the Indian community last night.

On the first leg of his trip, Modi had travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian prime minister to make an official visit to Palestine. From there he visited the UAE, before arriving in Oman.After its two diplomatic communications with Pakistan and a promise made by the country at the Saarc working group meeting failed to evoke a positive response, India has now planned to step up heat on its neighbour to pay its share for the South Asian University (SAU), a joint project of all South Asian countries, officials familiar with the development said.

The university is operational since 2010 in New Delhi and Pakistan is the only nation in the eight-member South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation group which is yet to make any financial contribution, an official said requesting anonymity.

New Delhi now plans to raise the issue again at the Saarc working committee meeting, board meeting of the SAU besides taking the matter up bilaterally.

Pakistan had agreed to foot 11.83% of the operational cost as against Indias 51.8% share.

At the meeting of the SAU board on November 28, 2016 in Dhaka, Pakistan was urged to clear the US$7,850,000 dues and the matter was later discussed at the Saarc working council meeting in February in Kathmandu.

During the same period, all other countries in Saarc made the contribution, an official pointed out. In a reply to the MEA, Pakistan through a note verbale dated February 21, 2017, said it would soon make the payment.

With no luck, Indian High Commission in Islamabad again took up the matter with Pakistan foreign ministry on August 2, 2017. The matter was again taken up during another working committee meeting of the Saarc.

Another Indian official said the government has now earmarked another ~260 for the completion of the SAUs new campus at Maidan Garhi.

But the issue here is that yet another Saarc initiative is running into an obstinate Pakistan, the second official said, referring to an earlier South Asia connectivity plan that had run into Pakistans resistance so was the SAARC satellite project.

A Pakistan High Commission spokesperson in New Delhi didnt reply to HTs queries till the filing of the report.

Once it is fully operational, the SAU will have 12 post-graduate science and non-science faculties, as well as Faculty of Undergraduate Studies. At full strength, the SAU will have 7000 students and 700 teachers. A flagship Institute of South Asian Studies will also be established in the University.

Students of the University will be predominantly from the eight SAARC countries.Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, which go to the polls later this year, announced major concessions for farmers, including a farm-loan waiver and higher prices as they sought to curb rural distress.

Making a surprise announcement while presenting the Rajasthan budget, chief minister Vasundhara Raje, under pressure after losing two Lok Sabha constituencies and an assembly seat in recent by-polls, said her government had decided to waive up to Rs 50,000 of all short-term crop loans of small and marginal farmers (borrowed from cooperative banks till September 30, 2017) with an outlay of Rs 8,000 crore. She said all loan penalties and overdue interest of such farmers would be written off.

In Bhopal, chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced a bonus of Rs 200 a quintal (100 kg) over the federally fixed minimum support price or MSP of wheat and paddy. In 2007-08, Chouhan had announced a bonus of Rs 150 per quintal of wheat. Successive gluts then prompted his government to withdraw it in 2015. The timing of that withdrawal wasnt good; commodity prices fell sharply that year. Chouhan said the state will also waive interest (amounting to Rs 2,600 crore) on farm loans.

Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan witnessed farmer protests last year due to falling prices.

Writing off penalties would put farmers back in the category of outstanding, rather than overdue loans, Raje told the assembly, meaning that farmers eligible for the scheme would no longer be labelled as defaulters.

Chouhans announcements, made at a farmers convention at Jamboree Maidan on Sunday and in the state capital on Monday, comes barely two weeks days ahead of bypolls in Mungaoli and Kolaras assembly constituencies.

The Raje governments decision comes on the back of a 13-day farmers agitation in September last year led by the Left-affiliated All India Kisan Sabha in Sikar, a prominent onion-growing region. The protests had forced the Raje-led government to depute a ministerial team to negotiate with the farmers.

With her announcement specifically mentioning small and marginal farmers, Raje immediately came under fire from farmer groups.

The agreement signed with us clearly stated that loans of all farmers would be waived off, not just small farmers. Small farmers with loans are not more just 2%. The government has cheated us, said Amra Ram, a leader of the All India Kisan Sabha.

With inputs from Zia HaqSecurity forces and militants continued to exchange fire in the heart of Srinagar till late on Monday night after a foiled attack on a CRPF camp left a trooper dead and a policeman critically injured.

CRPF trooper Mujahid Khan, a resident of Bihar and part of the 49 Battalion, was killed in the firing.

The Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) claimed responsibility for the attack.

As darkness enveloped the Karan Nagar area, loud explosions and the rattle of automatic gunfire could be heard intermittently, officials and residents said.

The site of the ongoing encounter is barely 300 metres from the SMHS Hospital from where Pakistani LeT militant Naveed Jhatt alias Abu Hunzullah escaped on February 6 after two policemen were killed.

Meanwhile, the LeT in a statement to a local agency on Monday lauded Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militants for the attack on the Sunjuwan military station in Jammu on Saturday in which nine people were killed, including three militants.

Earlier in the day, local news agencies whom the militants generally send their statements to had mis-interpreted the LeT statement as a claim that Lashkar militants were involved in both attacks.

The militants, whom security forces claimed to be from the JeM, had launched a pre-dawn attack on the military station housing soldiers of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantrys 36th Brigade and their families on Saturday.

A soldiers father and five military personnel were killed in the assault that continued till Sunday night, while about a dozen people were wounded.

Jaish, however has not officially claimed responsibility -- many Kashmir watchers believe that the fact that majority of the soldiers killed were Kashmiris and the attackers also killed a civilian and fired upon a pregnant woman can be the reason.

Jaish had promptly claimed resposibility for the December 31 attack on a CRPF camp in Pulwama in which five soldiers were killed.

About encounter in Srinagar, a CRPF spokesperson said a guard at the Karan Nagar camp fired when he noticed two armed men walking towards the gates around 4am. The duo ran towards the bylanes and fired at a search party from abandoned buildings nearby. The gunfight is on, he said.

In New Delhi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh held a high-level review meeting where he asked security forces posted in the J&K to emphasise on securing outer perimeters of army and paramilitary camps.

A home ministry official said the direction from the Home Minister came during the security review meetingwhich was also attended by Intelligence Bureau Director Rajiv Jain and Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba.

Mewanwhile, besieged by the back-to-back militant attacks and cross-border firing and shelling by the Pakistani army, chief minister Mehbooba Mufti called for a dialogue with the neighbouring nation for peace to return to the state.

A dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end the bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option, she said in a series of tweets.Home minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, where two terror attacks in last three days have left nine people dead, including five soldiers, officials said.

During an hour-long meeting with top officials, the home minister was given a detailed presentation about the situation in the state, particularly attack on an army camp in Jammu and a gunfight between security forces and militants in Srinagar.

Singh was told that the highest level of security has been put in place in the entire state and steps were being taken to foil attempts by terrorists to disturb peace, an official said.

The home minister directed the officials that action must be taken to check infiltration attempts from across the border, another official said.

Those who attended the meeting included Union home secretary Rajiv Gauba and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Rajiv Jain.

Jammu and Kashmir governor NN Vohra briefed the home minister about the prevailing situation in the troubled state on Sunday.

The governor apprised the home minister of the security situation in the state, particularly in border areas, which have been witnessing massive ceasefire violations by Pakistan and infiltration from across the border.

Five Army men, including two junior commissioned officers (JCOs), and the father of a soldier were killed by the terrorists who struck at the sprawling camp of the 36 Brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) on Saturday.

The Army said on Sunday that three heavily armed terrorists have been killed in the encounter.

Security forces foiled an attempt by militants to strike a CRPF camp in Srinagar on Monday. A paramilitary jawan was killed in the ensuing gunfight.The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Monday said that its chief Mohan Bhagwat did not disrespect the army or comment on its preparation during a speech given a day earlier in Bihars Mirpur.

In a statement by spokesperson Manmohan Vaidya, the RSS clarified that Bhagwat said if the countrys law calls for raising an armed force, the preparation time for ordinary citizens would be six months, but volunteers of the RSS would take shorter time to be ready, because of the army-like discipline that they follow.

This was no way a comparison between the Indian army and the Sangh swayamsevaks but it was a comparison between general society and swayamsevaks. Both are to be trained by the Indian Army only, the statement said.

Bhagwat had reportedly said that the RSS has the ability to prepare an army to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises, whereas the army would take 6-7 months to prepare.

Vaidya said Bhagwat did not question the armys capability nor was he drawing a comparison between the army and the swayamsevaks. He said Bhagwat was referring to the time that the army would take to groom ordinary citizens vis-a-vis swayamsevaks.

In a video clip posted by the RSS on its Twitter handle, Bhagwat is heard saying that the Sangh is not a military or paramilitary organisation, but a family organisation.Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs created a ruckus in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday as they demanded registration of an FIR against National Conference legislator Mohammad Akbar Lone for raising pro-Pakistan slogan in the House.

As the House assembled in the morning, the agitating BJP MLAs rose on their feet demanding apology, suspension of the member and filing of a sedition case against him.

BJP legislators RS Pathania and Rajiv Jasrotia said it was not a minor issue and demanded a statement from the NC to clear its stand on the action of its member.

We demand an apology from the NC MLA and an FIR be registered against him, Pathania said.

Remarks expunged: NC

The National Conference members countered the BJP and said the Speaker had already expunged Lones remarks. The party too had disassociated itself from the slogan.

Despite intervention by Speaker Kavinder Gupta, parliamentary affairs minister Abdul Rehman Veeri, deputy speaker Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, CPI-M legislator MY Tarigami and Independent MLA Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen, the BJP members continued their protest and debated with the opposition NC members.

Tarigami said we should not polarise the situation.

We must learn lessons: Speaker

However, calm was restored in the House after the Speaker said we should take lessons from whatever happens in the House.

We will not allow this House to become a stage to divide the people on the name of religion or against the nation. One learns lessons from a mistake and henceforth it will not be repeated, the Speaker said.

Veeri said the NC had already disassociated itself from the statement of Lone and requested the BJP members to take their seats.

We respect sovereignty of the country: NC

National Conference MLA Mohammad Shafi Uri said party president Farooq Abdullah had already issued a statement and the Speaker had expunged the remark.

The stand of our party is that we respect the sovereignty and integrity of the country. Nobody challenged the sovereignty and integrity of the nation so how it is the violation of the oath, he said.

He accused the BJP of making an issue out of nothing after the remark was expunged.

Unbecoming of a lawmaker

CPI(M) legislator Tarigami said whatever the political differences, nevertheless we have certain common ground as well and that every member of this House is on oath about the sovereignty and integrity of the country. Whatever had happened at that time, the house unanimously disapproved that leading to the expunging of the remarks.

BJP lawmaker Surinder Ambardar said it was unbecoming of a lawmaker to raise pro- Pakistan slogans when he had taken oath under the Constitution of India.

NC leadership led by Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah should clarify their stand and remove the member from the party, Ambardar said.Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to explain how Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shahs sons company earned profits, while small traders across the country shut shop after demonetisation.

Gandhi was speaking at a tribal rally in Raichur districts Devadurga as a part of the Janashirvada Yatra.

The Congress chief said the Centre favoured industrialists over farmers, labourers and petty traders. He accused Modi of having destroyed the rural economy by implementing measures such as demonetisation and the

Goods and Services Tax (GST), which he ridiculed as the Gabbar Singh Tax.

Small traders are shutting shop, but there is only one company that grew its business from Rs 50,000 to Rs 80 crore. That belongs to Amit Shahs son, Gandhi said, referring to Jay Shah.

You tell youngsters to become entrepreneurs and you dont give them employment. But for your friend Amit Shahs son, you have set up a start-up, he said.

Gandhi said India was losing in the competition against China because everywhere one looked, one could only see products made in the neighbouring country.

Shirt, cameras, cars; everything is made in China, he said, adding that while that country created 50,000 jobs a day, the Modi government could only manage 450 per day.

The Congress president likened the Prime Ministers leadership to a batsman who looks at the wicketkeeper, unlike Sachin Tendulkar, who faces the bowler.

Siddaramaiah looks at the ball and Modi looks at the wicketkeeper when the ball comes. Mistakes happen because of this. Demonetisation happens. Farmers, adivasis are affected by this and Gabbar Singh Tax is introduced, he said.

Reacting to Gandhis jibe, senior state BJP leader KS Eshwarappa said these were desperate attempts to discredit the good work done by Modi. Gandhi himself is an unemployed person, which is why he is making such comments, Eshwarappa said.

Clearly, he has not studied the various measures taken by the Modi government to promote employment, he added.Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman was expected in Jammu on Monday afternoon as a sanitisation operation was on in the Sunjuwan camp that saw a prolonged gun battle between militants and the army over the weekend.

Five soldiers and the father of one of the slain men were killed in the audacious attack that started early on Saturday when heavily armed Jaish-e-Mohammad militants targeted the residential area of the sprawling military campus.

She is going to take stock of the security situation and will visit the injured soldiers and civilians at the military hospital at Satwari. She will also meet the families of martyred soldiers and injured persons, a defence ministry source said.

Ten people, including six women and children, were injured in the strike. A 14-year-old boy is battling for life after he was shot in his head.

The visit comes in the middle of another gun battle in which a Central Reserve Police Force constable has been killed in Srinagar.

The exchange started after a guard foiled an attack on the paramilitary forces camp in Srinagars Karan Nagar. The two militants, who were heavily armed, took shelter in a nearby building and opened fire during a search, a CRPF spokesperson said.

Army chief general Bipin Rawat, who reached Jammu on Saturday, to review the operation returned to Delhi the next day.

The army has killed three Jaish militants but is yet to call off the operation that saw tanks being deployed at the camp and helicopters helping the ground troops.

Sanitisation or combing exercise is a standard part of the drill to ensure that the gunfight site is secure and safe.

The army would brief the media once the operation was complete, defence spokesman Lt Col Devender Anand said.In the biting winter cold of Srinagar, not a soul was stirring at 4am on Monday. But Raghunath Ghait of the CRPFs 23 Battalion was waiting alert at the main sentry post, with his weapon drawn.

The 27-year-old constable sounded a warning when he saw two men in military fatigues scampering towards his camp, where his colleagues and their families were fast asleep. The armed duo carrying a heavy rucksack didnt respond, or stop, prompting him to fire a volley of shots.

The gunshots forced the two militants to retreat and sprint across a bylane to a four-storey building under construction in the Karan Nagar area. The shots also alerted fellow CRPF guards and awoke those sleeping.

The building has been cordoned off and an operation is on to flush out the militants, said a senior paramilitary officer who doesnt want to be named.

Another officer said extreme caution is being exercised in the operation and the troopers are not using heavy weapons as Karan Nagar is a congested residential area.

Ghait Raghunath Ulhas of the CRPFs 23 Battalion. (Photo by special arrangement )

The CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir police evacuated around 25 families from the area. They have Ulhas of Maharashtra, who joined the CRPF in 2014, to thank for averting a situation akin to the Sunjuwan military station attack in Jammu, where six people were killed on Saturday and Sunday.

The CRPF and police went after the militants holed up in the building, triggering a gunfight in which paramilitary trooper Mojahid Khan of the 49 Battalion died of a bullet wound.

We lost a soldier during the encounter but the bravery of another soldier helped save many lives, CRPF director general RR Bhatnagar said.

Constable Khan rang up his mother in Bihars Bhojpur district at 9.52am and promised to attend a family wedding in March, barely 30 minutes before he was killed in the shootout near his camp.

His family members in Piro, his native village 92km southwest of Patna, said he spoke to his sister-in-law too.

Youngest of five brothers, Khan was a bachelor. His three elder brothers are in Dubai, while the eldest lives in Piro with their parents. His two sisters are married.

Brother Mohammad Khan said he received the sad news at 10.30am. Our parents and the women in the family havent been told about his death  we simply said Mojahid has been wounded in a militant attack.

Khan last visited his village in November last year. The family had planned to find a bride and fix the soldiers wedding the next time hes home on leave. But the brave brother will now return in a coffin.

Security measures across Kashmir Valley were scaled up after a suicide attack in January that left five CRPF troopers dead. Mondays attack follows intelligence alerts about heightened militant strikes in the first fortnight of February.

We had put all our units on high alert following intelligence inputs about an impending attack on the death anniversary of Maqbool Bhat, CRPF chief Bhatnagar said.

Bhat was a co-founder of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front and hanged in 1984 in New Delhis Tihar jail. Another separatist Afzal Guru was convicted and hanged for the 2001 Parliament attack.

The month of February marks the death anniversaries of both Afzal Guru and Maqbool Bhat. Hopefully, we will manage to thwart all acts that threaten to disturb law and order, said SP Vaid, the states director general of police.Veteran Odia actor Mahasweta Ray Monday joined the BJP in the presence of senior leaders, including Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan, at the party headquarters in Bhubaneswar.

I joined the BJP as I was influenced by the ideology of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I do not know anything about the ideology of chief minister Naveen Patnaik, Ray said in an apparent dig at the CM.

The BJP is happy to have Ray in the party, Pradhan said, adding that she will help strengthen the partys base in the state.

Two other popular Odia actors Mihir Das and Anu Choudhury had joined the saffron party last month.

Ray, one of the acclaimed actors of Odia film industry, has worked in Bengali films too.

She recently ruffled feathers in the industry by questioning the choices of the jury members of the 28th State Films Awards.

Ray, who was awarded the Best Performing Actress Award for her performance in Dele Dhara Katha Sare, said she had expected an award for her other film Chini.

The 55-year-old actor made her debut in Sesha Shrabana in 1976.Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday called for India-Pakistan talks, quickly adding that she will be dubbed anti-national by TV channels for making the appeal.

Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed (in the state), Mehbooba Mufti tweeted.

I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option.

Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option.  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) February 12, 2018

The chief ministers appeal comes amid a spurt in militant violence in the state as well as unending border clashes between Indian and Pakistani militaries.

Two attacks in past few days have targeted soldiers and their families in Jammu and Kashmir.

Saturdays attack on a camp in Sunjuwan, near Jammu, was the worst in months, with five soldiers and the father of one of the soldiers killed and women and children among the 10 wounded.

On Monday , an attack on a security camp in Karan Nagar was foiled but one jawan lost his life in the attack.In the budget for 2018-19, the state government announced interest-free loan of  2 lakh to those engaged in occupations like plumber, cobbler, rickshaw pullers and others.

She also announced waiver of loans of up to 2 lakh along with the interest on it for SC/ST, sanitation workers and differently-abled. The benefit will cost the state exchequer 114 crore.

The other announcements under the rubric Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes and Economically Backward Classes Welfare were 1000 new Ma-Bari Kendra with gas connection to benefit 30,000 children, solar lamps to 1.7 lakh farmers of tribal sub-plan area and the Bhairon Singh Shekhawat Antyoday Swarojgar Yojna, under which loans up to 50,000 shall be given to 50,000 families at 4% interest without collateral.

PL Mimroth, director of Centre for Dalit Rights said that there was nothing concrete for the SCs and STs in the budget. Moreover, more than 40% of the amount announced in last years budget remained unspent, said Mimroth.

The government also announced an increase in the honorarium of anganwadi workers, ASHA Sahyoginis and other workers. The honorarium of Anganwadi workers has been increased from  4,730 to Rs 6,000 while that of ASHA Sahyoginis has been raised from  1,850 to  2,500. The move is likely to benefit 1.84 lakhs workers.

For providing social security, Raje announced the constitution of the Dviyang Kosh for the specially-abled with 1 crore to welfare institutions, a subsidy of  1 lakh to adult orphans leaving government orphanages and joining the mainstream.

The budget proposed a maximum of two years child care leave for women employees. However, the governments move to give two years childcare leave was not received well by the activists. Kavita Srivastava, secretary of Peoples Union for Civil Liberties, said that the state government is only covering the formal sector.The announcements made in the health sector are grossly insufficient, said Dr Narendra Gupta, Rajasthan convener of Jan Swasthya Abhiyan (JSA). Reacting to the announcements made by the chief minister in the state budget on Monday, he said simply upgrading primary health centres to community health centres is of no use, as facilities also need to be upgraded.

The CM announced a new medical college at Dholpur and recruitment of 4,514 nurse grade-II and 5,558 woman health workers. New Cath Labs at hospital of Government Medical College in Jaipur, Bikaner and Ajmer will also be set up.

Raje also proposed Rs 7.29 crore for installing firefighting and fire detection system in 27 district hospitals and announced the development of 581 primary health centres (PHCs) as Adarsh primary health centres and wellness centre in rural areas. She also announced 28 new primary health centers and upgradation of 16 PHCs to Community Health Centres.

Swine flu and VDRL lab in Jaipuria hospital, including new catheterization labs in SMS hospital Jaipur, medical college (Bikaner) and medical college (Ajmer) also made it to the list of the proposed projects.

Announcing a new college in Dholpur does not make any sense. It just appears to be an announcement to lure people in an election year, said Dr Gupta, adding that two years ago the government had announced seven medical colleges in the state, but they are yet to start.

The reason is that in the last two years, the government has not been able to develop infrastructure and as a result, the Medical Council of India has not given approval to new colleges. In such a situation, announcing a new medical college in Dholpur is of no use, he said.

Similarly, Dr Gupta said that the government has to strengthen the primary health centre, the first point of healthcare, instead the government is concentrating on district hospitals and those hospitals attached to medical colleges. This leads to overcrowding at these hospitals.

Chhaya Pachauli, senior programme coordinator of Prayas, an NGO working in the field of health, said The budget in the health sector is disappointing.

Welcoming the budget proposals, former president of the Indian Medical Association SS Agarwal said that the announcements will strengthen basic health facilities but what is important is the implementation in a phased and timely manner.In the state budget presented on Monday, the government announced construction of additional classrooms and toilets in model schools with a provision of Rs 360 crore, recruitment of about 77,100 teachers, and introduction of fresh milk thrice a week in midday meals with an allocation of Rs 250 crore.

The announcements for education evoked mixed reactions from experts and stakeholders.

Recruitment of teachers is a welcome announcement as it was long overdue, but theres little in the budget towards improving the quality of education, said Kulbhushan Kothari of Pratham, an NGO working in the education sector.

The learning levels of students in areas, such as arithmetic and basic reading, are particularly low. Most of the announcements are aimed at expansion of facilities, but expansion should be commensurate with quality. At least 30% of the budget should have been set aside for training and education of teachers, he said.

Ramkrishna Agrawal of All Rajasthan School Teachers Union said the allocation was inadequate as its less than 6% of GDP as recommended by the Kothari Commission. He welcomed the announcement of two years childcare leave though.

On higher education, the government announced that self-financing scheme in government colleges will be converted to state financing with a provision of Rs 11.4 crore.

Narayan Lal Gupta, general secretary of Rajasthan University and College Teachers Association (Rashtriya), said, The announcement will help the students as state financing will help get permanent faculty. He expressed disappointment that there was no mention of 7th pay commission for the teachers in the budget.

The government announced that it will facilitate skill development courses in 50 government colleges to benefit over 12,000 students every year. In addition, new government colleges will be established at 17 sub-divisions in the state and new agriculture colleges will be opened in Kota and Alwar.No spotlight, no gifts and no sumptuous dinner, a smalltime businessman from Ghatal of Bengals West Midnapore district has celebrated his marriage by organising a blood donation camp, where the couple and some of the guests donated blood.

When Sandip Roy, 31 and Sreela Mondal, 25, tied the knot of February 8, topmost on their minds was the fact that Bengal faces a shortage of blood every summer. They wanted to contribute in a small way and send a message to spread the message of the need to donate blood.

Read: Govt employees to get paid leave for blood donation

Considering that every summer West Bengal faces a crisis in supply of blood, I was thinking of doing something since the marriage was finalised. I consulted the idea to my friends and guardians and they readily agreed, said Roy.

A small pandal was erected where it was written Sandiper biyete rokter bondhone aboddho hobo amara shobai (Lets unite for blood donation at Sandips marriage).

A total of 35 persons donated blood on the occasion.

Read: Facebooks blood donation feature gets over 6 million members in India

This is a remarkable step. The couple deserves thanks and gratitude of the people. I am sure his example will prompt more youths to undertake similar gesture on the occasion of their marriage, said blood donation activist and founder of Medical Bank in Kolkata, D Ashish.

There are only a few examples in the country of couples organising blood donation camps to celebrate their wedding. On June 7, 2013, in Odishas Kendrapara, 26-year-old groom Suvendu Kumar Pratap and his 22-year-old bride Suchitra Jena turned their marriage reception into a blood donation camp.

In mid December 2017, groom Dr Gunjan Jain and bride Osheen Jain donated blood for Thalassemia patients before getting married in Ujjain. Some of their friends and relatives, too, donated blood.

Read: Donate blood, Mumbai: Acute shortage in hospital blood banks

The youth from Bengal, Sandip Roy, is also a member of CPI(M)s youth wing Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI).

The couples gesture has already triggered a discussion in West Midnapore district, said DYFIs state secretary in Bengal, Jamir Molla, who was one of the invitees to Roys event.The UP Investors Summit will give the Yogi Adityanath government a platform to refurbish the states image as a business friendly destination and attract huge investment to create more jobs for the youth, senior government functionaries say.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the two-day summit in Lucknow on February 21.

UPs industry minister Satish Mahana says: I have been in politics for 27 years. I have not seen such a large-scale effort to attract investment in the past.

Giving a context to the event, Mahana says: No serious efforts were made to attract investment during the previous regimes. A sum of only Rs 80,000 crore has been invested in the state in the past 15 years. We have so far organised six road shows ahead of the summit. The previous government passed of such road shows as the summit to attract investors.

Indeed, this is the first such major attempt by chief minister Yogi Adityanath to show his governments investment-friendly face ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Little wonder, the event is being billed as an attempt to bring UP back on the path of development. Over the years, UP has been categorised as a BIMARU state despite having 16.5% of the countrys population, 7.3% of the area and having elected nine Prime Ministers from Jawahar Lal Nehru to Narendra Modi.

Although successive governments have announced incentives to attract investment in the past, they have failed to improve the situation in the state.

Apparently, major investors have kept away from the state in view of the poor law and order situation.

The rush to woo investors is in sharp contrast to the political mood in the pre-globalisation period when the political leadership maintained a distance from the industry to project a people-friendly face.

In the post globalisation period too, investors preferred the National Capital Region (NCR) and some shifted to other states, claiming better facilities there or blaming the red-tape or corruption.

During the Congress governments tenure till 1989, the then chief minister Narain Dutt Tiwari conceptualised many development projects. At that time, there were Congress governments both in the state and at the Centre. The situation is now similar with the BJP being at the helm in both Lucknow and New Delhi.

After Tiwaris tenture, the first organised effort to attract investment was made when Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav, he took over as chief minister in 2003.

During his regime, the much hyped Uttar Pradesh Development Council, comprising leading industrialists, had attracted nationwide attention and a number of major projects were proposed for the states development. The Mulayam Singh Yadav government claimed that the UPDC attracted investment of Rs 33,000 crore. Yet, the mega Dadri power project was caught in a controversy over land acquisition issues and subsequently shelved; so were many other projects.

The Uttar Pradesh Development Council was scrapped once the Mayawati led BSP government assumed office after 2007 assembly elections. The BSP government also ordered closure of Reliance Fresh Stores that were coming up in major cities of the state.

The Akhilesh Yadav led Samajwadi Party government aimed for 11.2% industrial growth in its Infrastructure and Industrial Investment Policy-2012.

The Akhilesh Yadav government hosted a global investors summit and held interactions and conventions with film-makers and industry lobby groups. His government also tried to woo foreign investors. Yadav, in collaboration with other organisations, launched the Silicon Valley and Avadh Development of Entrepreneurial Services for Humanity (SVADESH) on December 21, 2014 to attract foreign investment.

Yadav had a video conference with Oakland (California) mayor Libby Schaaf and many of those who attended the launch promised to bring investment.

His moves to launch mega infrastructure projects like the access controlled greenfield Agra-Lucknow Expressway on the public private partnership (PPP) model, however, failed to attract investors. His government had to subsequently mobilise funds to get the CMs dream project, the Agra-Lucknow expressway, implemented on the EPC model. Yadav also conceptualised the Poorvanchal Expressway and brought the Metro Rail to Lucknow. His government, however, failed to achieve the industrial growth rate targets. An estimated investment of about Rs 6452.18 crore was made against proposed investment of about Rs 50,793.79 crore up to March 31, 2016.

Although some more investment was made in 2017, the state remained far behind the target.

This was considerably lower than the investment of Rs 35000.72 crore made from 2007 to 2012 against target of Rs 84140.33 crore.

Efforts to attract investment got a reboot with the Yogi government organising six roadshows in the run-up to the summit. These roadshows include the one in Mumbai that Yogi attended to ensure the presence of whos who of the industry.

The state government claims to have worked on 371 points for ease of doing business, and 270 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) have been already signed. These MoUs will be exchanged at the summit.

The state government also claims to have got proposals for investment of Rs 2.53 lakh crore and 22 sessions have been planned for a close interaction with different groups of investors at the summit.

Infrastructure and industrial development commissioner Anoop Chandra Pandey says he will try to ensure that all the MoUs signed now are implemented in the next six months. With this investment, we hope to create 25 lakh direct jobs in the state, says Pandey.

To give a strong message that UP is a safe destination for investors, the state police have launched a drive against criminals. The state government is in the process of enacting a new law to check organised crime. The chief minister moved Uttar Pradesh Control of Organised Crime Bill during the winter session of the state legislature. The bill has been strongly resisted by the opposition but is likely to be passed during the ongoing budget session of the state legislature that commenced here on February 8.

Leading industrialists, including Reliance Industries Limited chairman Mukesh Ambani, Adani Group chief Gautam Adani, Aditya Birla Group chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla, GMR groups GM Rao, Tata Group chairman N Chandrashekharan and CEOs of leading companies, 20 union ministers and foreign dignitaries are expected to attend the summit.Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has decided to promote the youth and missionary workers in the party organization to be battle-ready for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Dalits form the core base of the party and to expand the support base before the crucial election, she has also started working on sarva- samaj (all communities) formula.

Besides, she has started reviewing preparation also for the Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh assembly elections that are likely to be held at the end of the year. She held a series of meetings in this regard in the partys state unit office on Saturday.

Aware that consecutive defeats in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections, rebellion of senior leaders, absence of young faces in the organization, rise of Bhim Army led by Chandrashekhar in West UP and sidelining of the missionary workers have demoralized the party workers, the BSP chief has decided to revamp the organization right from the grass root level.

She told the senior party leaders that booth committees will be reorganized before the elections. besides Dalits, members of backward, upper caste and Muslim communities will be given adequate representation in the committees. Missionary workers, who were promoting the ideology of the party, would be adjusted in the organization and priority be given to them in distribution of ticket, she said.

Party leaders were also directed to organize cadre camps across the state to collect feedback about the mood of the people and rope in more members into the BSP. Senior party leaders were directed to attend the cadre camps and give message to the workers active at the grass root level.

Party leaders would raise the problem faced by the people due to demonetization, GST, unemployment, agriculture crisis, harassment of the minority communities, law and order, withdrawal of the cases against politicians, Mayawati said.

To motivate the leaders, she said the BSP continued struggle for the deprived section during the Congress rule and grabbed power. Under the BJP rule, the party would continue to fight back and try to form government in UP. The BSP would also play major role in the formation of the government in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh as well, she said.

She cautioned the party leaders and workers and said they should be watchful as the ruling party might tamper with the EVMs again.

She said on the request of the BSP the Supreme Court had ordered for the polling by voter verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) in the coming Lok Sabha and assembly elections.

Party leaders were eager to know if the BSP will opt for pre-poll alliance in the 2019 Lok Sabha and assembly elections in three states but Mayawati avoided the issue.

A senior party leader said Mayawati told them that a decision on pre-poll alliance will be taken at the appropriate moment after evaluating the offer of the like minded parties. Another BSP leader said earlier she rejected alliance offer and preferred to contest the election on the partys own strength but the pre-poll alliance with the Janta Dal (S) in Karnataka indicated change in the strategy.

It might pave the way for the future alliances as well, he said.It will be a battle of prestige for deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya when Phulpur Lok Sabha constituency goes to poll on March 11.

Having won Phulpur with a margin of over 3 lakh votes in 2014, Maurya had announced that it was the first time that lotus (BJPs poll symbol) had bloomed in a constituency that remained a Congress bastion for long.

The feat propelled Mauryas fortunes and he was appointed the state unit chief of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

He proved his mettle again in the 2017 UP assembly election when the party bagged its best-ever tally of 324 seats.

Maurya was rewarded with the post of deputy chief minister.

Having risen in stature from grassroot leader to a prominent position in the party, Maurya will now have to prove that it was not just Modi magic but his own charm too that helped the party come to power in the state, said political analyst and vice-chancellor of the Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University (UPRTOU), Allahabad, Prof MP Dubey.

He needs to fire on all cylinders to ensure a win for his party at a time when the opposition seems to be closing ranks, he added.

Aware of the challenge, Maurya is leaving no stone unturned to repeat the feat.

District media in-charge of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Pawan Srivatava said the parliamentary constituency had been divided into 227 sectors by the party for better penetration at grassroots level.

Senior party leaders including UP BJP general secretary Govind Narayan Shukla, state unit secretary Amar Pal Maurya and Sonbhadra MLA Bhupesh Chaubey have been camping in the constituency from February 1 onwards. They are holding meeting at sector and booth level apprising the electorate about the partys achievements. Senior leaders are also likely to visit the constituency for canvassing, he said.

District unit office-bearer of the BJP said the candidate would be named within a day or two and nominations would be filed between February 13 and 20.

Maurya will arrive here on Monday and meet the electorate in different parts of the constituency for a couple of days. The most probable names of candidates include deputy CMs wife Rajkumari Maurya, orthopaedic surgeon Dr UB Yadav and Dr Vikram Patel, son of a BJP MLA from Fatehpur, he said.

An eight-page folder projecting the works that Maurya carried out as Phulpur MP is being circulated in the parliamentary constituency.

Some of the works mentioned in the list include construction of 15 railway over-bridge (ROB) and flyovers, roads, drains, boundary walls, sanctioning of four-lane bridge on the Ganga connecting Allahabad and Varanasi, civil airport connecting Allahabad with 14 major cities, launch of CNG and PNG pipeline work besides broadening of 18 roads with Rs 291.18 crore funds from the Central Road Fund (CRF).The police have sounded an alert in Lucknow in view of Valentines Day on Wednesday, apprehending hooliganism by some extremist organisations.

The Women Power Line (1090) will address emergency complaints related to misbehaviour with women and girls. The staff of police control room (UP100) and Anti Romeo Squad, constituted earlier by the state government, have also been sensitised to entertain girls complaints on priority basis, said police officials.

Directions have been issued to in-charges of police stations and Anti Romeo Squads to deal with trouble makers strictly. People getting involved in any kind mischief with women or trying to do any moral policing will be on our radar, said Deepak Kumar, SSP, Lucknow.

He said police have been asked to maintain their presence at strategic locations to ensure womens safety and vigil will be maintained outside schools, colleges, malls and crowded market areas.

The SSP said at least a dozen of mobile police teams would be on patrol during the day to avert any violent action by extremist organisations.

Kumar said vigilance would also be maintained over girls institutions to avert any misbehaviour incidents. Women cops will be deployed at such places where such incidents are apprehended and trouble makers will be dealt with strictly, he added.

Navniet Sekera, inspector general of police, 1090, said some phone lines will be put into service exclusively to handle womens and girls complaints.The trial for the 26/11 terror attack case continued on Monday, when the prosecution examined the 54th witness against the Abu Jundal.

The prosecution examined Gurudatta Bobade, who had witnessed the process of recording Abu Jundals voice samples, which investigators had collected for the trial.

The prosecution has claimed that Jundal was one of the key plotters of the attack and maintained contact with the ten terrorists who attacked the city.

The police had managed to intercept the voice calls made to the attackers by Jundal from the alleged control room set up in Karachi.

Jundals voice samples collected by the investigators matched with the intercepted recordings.A 28-year-old woman died after she fell off the 23rd floor of the 25-storey Twin Towers in Prabhadevi on Monday afternoon.

According to the Dadar police, the woman, Ketki Vinayak Gavande, lived with her parents in flat number 231 of A wing.

Diwakar Shelke, senior inspector of Dadar police station, said, We did not find a suicide note at the spot. The womans parents and husband said she was under depression. We got a call around 1.30pm.

Gavande, an MA graduate, jumped out of the window after opening the AC grille, said police. The woman was rushed to a hospital where she was declared dead.

Shelke said, Gavande, got married two months ago, was going through depression for the past few years. The womans husband was also aware of her condition, said a police officer.

On Monday, Gavandes husband left for work and dropped her at her parents place on the way. Gavandes mother and domestic help were at home, while her father had left for work. Gavande did not talk much and went straight to her room. After a few minutes, the neighbours heard a scream, said an officer.

Gavandes parents said they dont blame anyone for the suicide. We have registered an accidental death report and are investigating to find out whether she had attempted suicide earlier as well, Shelke said.An eight-year-old boy, stripped naked, crying and tied to a tree in Andheri (west), was rescued by the Mumbai police on Monday morning, after a Twitter user saw the child from the window of his house and alerted the police on their Twitter account.

The Juhu police said the social media team got in touch with them after receiving an alert about child abuse from one of their Twitter followers, Nishit Mehta, who tweeted a photo of the boy to @MumbaiPolice.

@MumbaiPolice I would like to report incident of child abuse. A boy has been tied up with a tree and crying since half hour. Some 2 to 3 people are irritating him. He has been stripepd off his clothes. Tat colony andheri west near andheri fire brigade. pic.twitter.com/iLFZVjT5Zs  Nishit Mehta (@nishit88) February 12, 2018

When the police visited the spot  a slum pocket near Andheri fire brigade, visible from Mehtas building spot  they discovered that an eight-year-old boy had been tied to the tree as a punishment for bunking school by his mother and older brother.

The boys mother said her husband had passed away and she was working as a domestic help, and that she wanted her sons to study hard so that they could secure themselves a good future, police officials said.

The boy used to bunk school frequently, which used to make her angry. Today, he had bunked school again, so she had punished him, said a police official, who did not wish to be named. We took him for a medical test and found there were no injuries, minor or major, on his body.

The Juhu police said they let off the mother with a warning that she should not punish her children in this manner. The mother apologised, and she has promised not to use such punishments in the future, the official said.

A little while later, Mehta also posted a photograph of the Juhu police rescuing the boy.Less than a week after a mid-air collision was averted between two aircraft in Mumbai airspace by allegedly three

seconds, investigation is underway it a similar incident that occurred in Nagpur last month.

On January 28, Indigo Airbus A-320 and Emirates Boeing B-777 breached the minimum separation of 1,000 feet that has to be maintained between two planes. The Indigo aircraft from Hyderabad to Raipur and the Emirates aircraft going to Dubai from Singapore were allegedly said to be just 200 feet away from each other. The incident came to light after officials confirmed that one of the controllers at the Nagpur ATC tower was grounded. The conformation came during an inquiry initiated by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) .

Senior officials privy to the investigation said the radar controller was probably not at his seat when the incident took place. An official said, An unauthorised officer was asked to take charge until the time the senior radar controller in question returned to her seat and handled the channel.

While Airports Authority of India (AAI) spokesperson said he could not comment on the matter as it was under investigation, a senior AAI official privy to the probe confirmed that one of the senior radar controllers was grounded as his role in the accident is being scrutinised.

According to another AAI official, the radar controller in question was grounded as a standard operating procedure and will remain derostered until a preliminary report is released by the investigative agency.The policy-making body of the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport ((BEST) undertaking on Monday cleared the proposal for hiring 450 buses including mini, midi and air conditioned (AC) buses on wet-lease, worth around Rs650 crore, as a part of reforms suggested by the parent body Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Upset with the decision the labour unions have warned indefinite strike from February 15. Of the 450 buses, 200 will be AC mini buses, 200 mini non-AC buses and 50 non-AC midi buses.

According to the proposal, 225 buses will be hired from two contractors each on wet-lease basis in which the contractor will take care of driver, fuel and maintenance of the buses, while BEST will provide its conductor and parking space to the buses. BEST will have full operational control on the running of the buses, said general manager Surendrakumar Bagde. He said that BEST is likely to save buses between Rs 8-33 per km, for various types of buses.

The BEST will pay Rs48 per km for the mini AC bus, Rs41 per km for the non-AC mini buses and Rs45 per km for non-AC midi buses. The mini buses will have to run 3,500 kms while midi buses will have to run 4,000 kms.

Introduction of mini-AC buses was one of the short-term low-cost solutions discussed in HTs Unclog Mumbai series.

Presently, BEST has about 3,300 buses including nearly 750 midi buses, ferrying about 28 lakh passengers every day. According to BEST, these new wet-lease will start arriving from July-August. In the first phase, 25% of the total buses will join the fleet and others will enter gradually, Bagde said.

Mini buses will have capacity of 30 passengers and midi buses will ferry 42 passengers. The BEST administration is planning to operate these buses on various feeder routes.

The decision has not gone well among the labour unions. The battle of our existance has begun with the privatization of BEST, said Shashank Rao, leader of joint action committee of unions in BEST.

Bharatiya Janata Party members also opposed the wet-lease proposal, though Shiv Sena members supported the move saying that preference should be given to the son of soils and wards of BEST employees, when the contractors will appoint staffers. It will be Shiv Senas responsibility when this decision will prove disastrous, said Sunil Ganacharya, senior member of BJP on BEST panel. Ravi Raja, a senior Congress party member of BEST panel said, The BMC commissioner and BEST administration is trying to compel us to pass the project.Taking technology to the doorsteps of those who do not have access to the latest channels in learning, a mobile learning van is doing the rounds of Dharavi and its neighbourhood.

Nawneet Ranjan, the founder of Dharavi Diary, runs the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) van to inculcate scientific temper among students. The gadgets in the van run on solar power.

Dharavi Diary is a study centre which aims in developing the overall personality of underprivileged children. Ranjan believes that the current education system should do away with rote learning, and focus on the overall development of children.

Currently, Ranjan is teaching students from the New English Secondary School in Pratiksha Nagar the importance of solar energy. The students are taught on a screen attached to the van, which runs on solar energy.

Aditya Chaurasiya, a class eight student from the school, was amazed by the concept.

This technology will become rampant in the next two-three decades, because it is environment-friendly. I am glad we are being made aware of it now, said Chaurasiya.

Ranjan said that through STEM, he wants to clear the basic concepts and inculcate scientific mind-set.

The problem with our education system is that it believes in rote learning, which wont help children develop that insight. Also, there is no hands-on learning in the schools they go to, which is why we have developed this concept, consisting classroom, community and citizenship, said Ranjan.

Having tried this model in Pune for around a month, Ranjan now plans to reach out to around 400 students in the city in the low income areas of Dharavi, Versova, Kurla and Ghatkopar. He intends to conduct classes in these areas twice a week, before taking the van to other parts of the country.

As of now, STEM is equipped with a screen and scientific games; Ranjan also plans to introduce robotics and get computers installed in the van in the near future.

Terming STEM to be a great initiative, Nikita Bansal, a teacher associated with Teach for India said that the van focused on the thought process of children.

These are 21st century kids; it is thus necessary that we bring about a transformation in the way we teach, and adapt to the changing times, said Bansal.The first phase of the water transport project between Kalyan, Thane and Vasai has got a major boost.

In a meeting in Delhi on Monday, Union minister Nitin Gadkari, asked the Thane municipal commissioner Sanjeev Jaiswal to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the central government in the next three weeks. The Thane Municipal Comissioner (TNC) has planned to use Ulhas river, creek and coastal network for water transport.

Sandeep Malvi, public relations officer of TMC, said, Gadkari expressed his satisfaction over the report. Signing an MoU with the Centre will speed up the allotment of funds. Gadkari has asked TMC to coordinate with IIT-Madras, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), Mumbai Port Trust and Cochin Shipyard.

The institutions will provide facilities and technologies at par with international standards. To ensure smooth operation of the services, a repair and maintenance centre will be set up along the route,  said Malvi. The second phase will connect Thane to Mumbai and the third will link Navi Mumbai.The Bombay high court on Monday questioned the practice adopted by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to allow roof-top hotels and restaurants in the wake of fire in Kamala Mills Compound that killed 14 people.

How can you grant licence to an eating house on the terrace of a building, a division bench of justice RM Borde and justice Rajesh Ketkar sought to know from BMC counsel and senior advocate Anil Sakhare. The judges wondered as to what the concept of roof-top hotels was. Terrace is a common amenity and it must remain open to use for all occupants as a common facility, the bench said in this regard, adding, No licence can be granted for an eating house on the terrace.

The court was hearing a public interest litigation filed former Mumbai police commissioner Julio Rebeiro, seeking fire audit of all eateries across Mumbai and setting up of a special investigation team of senior police officials to carry out a probe into all FIRs related to the fire in Kamala Mills compound.

The judges wanted to know as to how the terrace was sold or allowed to be used for bars and restaurants, when provisions of the Maharashtra Ownership of Flats Act and Ownership Apartments Act prohibit it, and how the civic body could have granted licence to the roof-top bars and restaurants like 1Above and Mojos Bristo in Kamla Mills.

Sakhare replied saying the building is in commercial use and its owner has allowed the use of the terrace for commercial purpose. He clarified part of the terrace is constructed and the licence was granted for the constructed area, and not for serving food and liquor in the open part of the terrace.

The judges also felt there was complete lack of monitoring mechanism to ensure the licensing conditions are complied with by hotels and restaurants. Prima facie, we find there is no monitoring at all after the licences are granted, said the bench.

During the course of hearing on the PIL, Sakhare told the bench that the BMC has initiated departmental action against 12 erring employees, including one fire brigade officer who has been booked and arrested by NM Joshi Marg police in the offence registered in connection with the fire.

The senior advocate said the erring employees are from different civic departments such as health, fire brigade and the ward office concerned, and charge sheets have been served upon them.

The court has now directed the BMC to submit its roof-top policy and also inform the bench the number and type of licences required for a bar and restaurant and the regulatory mechanism, if any, to ensure compliance with licensing conditions.

The PIL will come up for further hearing on Wednesday.The recent spate of suicide attempts at Mantralaya  and the death of a murder convict who jumped off the fifth floor last week  has prompted the Maharashtra government to install a safety net at the buildings second floor-level to prevent further such incidents.

The safety net, installed on Monday, is similar to the one seen commonly at construction sites of high-rise buildings. Last week, Hindustan Times had reported that the state government was looking at various security measures to prevent suicide attempts in and around the high-security state secretariat in south Mumbai.

Foxconn, the Chinese multinational electronics contract manufacturing company, had put up similar such safety nets around its facilities in Chinas Shenzhen region, following a rash of suicides by its employees.

Last month saw three separate suicide attempts in and around Mantralaya, in which two people died. The incidents prompted the Opposition to criticise the government and dub Mantralaya as a suicide point, much to the embarrassment of the Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government.

Security and screening at Mantralaya have also been tightened. The government is also putting in place several measures such as restricting the entry of visitors  it plans to allow only visitors with an appointment into the building  as well as put up an administrative desk outside the main building for people who want to submit letters.

Senior bureaucrats said they are also considering keeping a few of the windows shut permanently. In November 2017, a man had climbed on to the parapet and threatened to jump.

A detailed report on the measures to be adopted to prevent suicides at Mantralaya is expected this week, officials added.An unidentified man allegedly sodomised a mentally challenged nine-year-old boy in Bhiwandi on Saturday afternoon, said police.

The accused is said to be in his 20s.

Officers said the boy, a Class 4 student, went to call his elder brother for lunch, when the accused lured him to an isolated spot and sodomised him. The boy returned home and complained of back pain. When his father questioned him, he narrated his ordeal. He took his father back to the spot, but the accused had fled by then.The family then approached the police, who registered a case, said K Jadhav, senior inspector, Shantinagar police station.

Police have made a sketch of the accused, based on the boys description. They went to the spot and questioned locals, but were unable to find clues. Teams are patrolling the area in police vehicles as well as on foot in search of the accused

We have alerted other police stations in the area and are investigating, said Jadhav.The parking policy, which is meant to encourage citizens to use public transport and fine them for illegal parking, is delayed again, this time owing to lack of public response.

Under the residential parking scheme, the citizens are allowed to park on roads outside their housing societies from 8pm to 8am after six months payment. After getting municipal commissioner Ajoy Mehtas nod for night parking in A ward (Churchgate, Cuffe Parade, Kala Ghoda) in January, the BMC received applications from 235 car owners or 39 housing societies requesting parking space on roads. Of them, 69 were rejected. The civic body sent payment notices of Rs1,800 a month to 20 housing societies or 166 car owners who received the no-objection certificate from the traffic police to park on roads. However, only seven housing societies have paid the fees, while three others refused as parking will be allowed for only 12 hours. The remaining have been delaying fee payment.

Taking note of the poor response, the BMC will meet citizen activists in south Mumbai this week. There was no deadline for paying parking fees. However, as it is a pilot project we only have non-objection certificate from traffic police for six months, said Kiran Dighavkar, assistant municipal commissioner, A ward. Many residents had doubts regarding parking timings, towing of vehicles and parking fees. We will also answer these queries in the meetings.

The area has a population of nearly 1 lakh 50 thousand people and also sees a floating population of 8 lakh daily. A ward is a prime location for commercial complexes and government buildings and sees a heavy density of vehicular traffic. The area also falls under A category or the busiest category where parking rates are the highest. The list of roads was forwarded by the BMC to the traffic police department for no-objection certificates and final approval before implementation.

The BMC had said that the scheme is optional. But if a vehicle is illegally parked or at someones allocated spot, it will be towed away. Transport experts have welcomed the policy. It is a comprehensive policy and it will de-congest roads. The only option left with the civic body is to be stringent. The BMC should make the policy compulsory and tow away vehicles if they are illegally parked, said AV Shenoy, road safety/transport expert, Mumbai Vikas Samiti.Six months after the Bombay high court stayed the state government resolution (GR) reserving 67.5% postgraduation (PG) seats in private and deemed medical institutes for candidates furnishing a domicile certificate, the government reintroduced the domicile requirement this year. A person born in Maharashtra or has lived in the state for at least 15 years has domicile status.

Under the new admission rules issued last month, aspirants are required to be domiciled in Maharashtra as well as be a graduate from one of the medical or dental colleges in the state or a central institute to be eligible for seats reserved for Maharashtra state candidates. Until last year, all the students graduating from medical and dental colleges in the state were eligible under this category.

The new norms will affect more than 1,000 PG seats claimed by medical graduates who studied in the state, but are not domiciled. Nearly 50% seats in government colleges and 85% in private medical and dental colleges are reserved for Maharashtra state candidates. The remaining 50% seats in government colleges are set aside for All India candidates, while 15% seats in private institutes belong to non-residential Indians (NRIs).

Read: No domicile needed for medical PG students from Ktaka border area: Maharashtra govt

Contending that a higher number of medical practitioners domiciled in Maharashtra are needed to provide healthcare in the state, the government, in April 2017, issued a GR announcing 50% seats for PG courses in private and deemed medical and dental colleges, in addition to half of the 35% institution quota seats  17.5% seats  were to be filled with students domiciled in Maharashtra.

However, a division bench of Justices Shantanu Kemkar and Anant Badar stayed the GR, terming it arbitrary and unreasonable because it changed the eligibility criteria midway through the admission process.

The government is confident that its new rules are legally tenable. The court didnt find any fault with our decision. It got stayed only because it was issued after the admission process began, said an official from Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER).

The state domicile requirement wont be applicable to candidates seeking admission to deemed institutes. All the admissions to deemed institutes will be conducted by the central government, said Pravin Shingare, director, DMER.

Read: Maharashtra wants quota for its own students in undergraduate medical admissions

Parents of medical aspirants and students in the state have welcomed the new rules. Out-of-Mharashtra candidates are exempted from the rural bond service, resulting in a loss to the state, said Muzaffar Khan, a parent and medical education counsellor.

This is a good move, added Chandranath Sarkar, another parent.

However, Kamal Kishore Kadam, president, Association of Management of Unaided Private Medical and Dental colleges, criticised the decision. PG courses are specialised programmes. All the seats should be filled through merit, he added.Two years ago, 22-year-old Dilip Jani was diagnosed with throat cancer.

Doctors attending to him have pointed to his addiction to hookahs as one of the main reasons for contracting the disease.

Jani has been smoking hookahs almost everyday for the past five years.

It started as just a fad due to peer pressure in my college days. However, now its very difficult to quit, said Jani.

Jani is one of the many college-going youngsters who frequent hookah parlours that have mushroomed across the city.

Going by a survey carried out by a non government organisation (NGO), Youth Voice, that has been campaigning against such illegal joints, there are 400 hookah parlours in the city. As per the civic bodys records, only around 50 of them are legal.

Ashraf Khan, president, Youth Voice, alleged that there is a nexus between owners, civic officials and the police that allows so many illegal parlours to run the business with such impunity. A minimum bribe of Rs1 to 3 lakh is given to the various departments by the owners of the hookah parlours. The owners make a minimum of Rs2 lakh every month after all the material, establishments and bribe costs, alleged Khan.

BMC health committee chairman, Rohini Kamble, admitted that the nexus exists, but said that action would now be taken against such officials. We will take action against health officials who fail to crackdown on such illegal joints, said Kamble.

Khan bases his calculation on the fact that when a consumer orders a hookah, it costs at least Rs500, and can go up to Rs1,200 in some plush parlours. The material costs for the owner - coal and flavour ingredients - cost between Rs50 to Rs125. Any parlour serves at least 30 such hookahs during the week, which can go up to 50 on weekends. This makes up a neat turnover of Rs5.50 lakh monthly for the establishment. After the deduction of all costs, the owner makes at least Rs2 lakh a month.

In order to serve hookahs at their establishments, it is compulsory to have a smoking room in the premises. However, to get an approval for a smoking room, the place should have an eating house license. The smoking room should be an incarcerated isolated space of a minimum 100 square feet area, which can extend up to a maximum of 30 % of the total area of the premises.

After the Kamala Mills fire in December 2017, which claimed 14 lives, the initial inquiry report by civic chief Ajoy Mehta said that flying embers from hookahs served illegally at Mojos Bistro may have caused the fire. However, experts later stated that coal embers alone cannot be the cause of a fire of such magnitude.

The state government is now mulling a ban on hookahs in the state, but a section of officials have recommended a stringent enforcement of existing laws, instead of an outright ban.

We had a negative experience with the dance bar ban, and think it is easier to enforce the rules more stringently. In this case, there is an existing apex court order on the subject, said an official from the state secretariat involved in this decision.

Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi, head and neck surgeon at Tata Memorial Hospital, also argues that the existing laws are enough to tackle this menace. All authorities need to do is strictly enforce the rule that hookahs should be served only in isolated places, and not with food and drinks. This is mentioned in the SC guidelines, and if it is enforced, businesses will suffer and get shut down, said Chaturvedi.

He cites that smoking of hookahs is harmful, as the materials contain 28 cancer-causing substances mainly like benzopyrine, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, and 3,000 other chemicals which are harmful. He said even in cases where tobacco is not used, carbon monoxide, which is toxic, is used. He said that the immediate effects of smoking hookahs include bronchitis, asthma and nicotine toxicity to long term ill effects like progressive lung damage and finally cancer of lungs and throat.

However, proponents of hookah call it selective action against them. Why doesnt the government ban cigarettes which are equally harmful? Even we demand a crackdown against illegal hookah parlours. In the bargain, those having licenses should not be targeted unfairly, said Suneet Chadha, owner, Cosmik Group, one of the legal entities operating hookah parlour. Chadha, who had taken the matter to the Supreme Court, said even the apex court has upheld their stance.

In July 4, 2011, then Mayor Shubha Raul, was instrumental in banning hookahs within Mumbais civic limits. In August 11, 2011 the Bombay high court upheld the order of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). However, the SC on December 8, 2014 set aside the HC order and passed detailed guidelines. The apex court pointed out that the definition of smoking under the Cigarettes Act included smoking tobacco in any form with the help of a pipe, wrapper, or any other instrument, which would include a hookah and the expression, no other service shall be allowed, referred to services other than hookahs. So, the use of hookahs could be permitted in smoking zone, said a bench of justice Ranjan Gogoi and justice Rohinton Nariman.The Shiv Sena on Monday condemned Goa minister Vijai Sardesai for his anti-north Indian remarks. Objecting to the heavy influx of north Indians, the agriculture minister had said that they were trying to create a Haryana in Goa.

Sardesai had also said that domestic tourists visiting Goa are the scum of the earth.

An editorial in the Sena mouthpiece Saamana said Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief minister Manohar Parrikar has come to power with the support of Sardesai and his party who champion the cause of Portuguese pride. Portuguese are fine, Portuguese slavery is welcome, but north Indians are not welcome... if a Goa minister in the BJP government says Goa has become a dumping yard because of tourists from north India, why doesnt it clean up the mess, the editorial asked.

Tourism is a major source of revenue for Goa, the Sena said, and if tourists are not welcome, how will the state run? What will the state earn by just selling coconuts, palms and cashew feni? Even to sell these products, they need tourists, the editorial added.

Interestingly, in the past, the Sena has taken an anti-north Indian stand in Maharashtra, claiming that north Indians are taking away jobs meant for locals in the state.

The Marathi newspaper also slammed the Goa government for not tackling the real issue  the growing menace of Russian and Nigerian drug mafias. Those in power seem to have forgotten the people who have created menace in the state. Illegal activities thrive on half of Goas beaches. There are Russian and Nigerian flags fluttering on many villages, and even if a crime is reported in that village, the Goa police cannot enter it, it alleged.

Sardesai had also said that 50 years after saving itself from getting merged with Maharashtra, the state now was at the risk of losing its own identity because of the increasing presence of non-Goans in its tourism sector. Bhausaheb Bandodkar [Goas first chief minister Dayanand Bandodkar] had said that Goa shared cultural ties with Maharashtra, and had referred to Goa as a Hindu state in the Assembly. Sardesai is working towards destroying those ideas, and the BJP is supporting him.

Responding to its allys tirade, BJP spokesperson Madhav Bhandari said: The Sena lacks any concrete issue, so it comes up with such issues. It has been anti-north Indian and anti-everything. Tomorrow, if the Goa CM says he welcomes north Indians, the Sena will oppose that too.The Bombay high court on Monday rapped the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for failing to protect witnesses in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case and for lacking seriousness in prosecuting those accused in the case.

What protection are you giving to the witnesses in the case? Justice Revati Mohite-Dere asked additional solicitor general Anil Singh, who represented the central agency. The question came after senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani, who argued for IPS officer Dr Narendra Amin, pointed out that the witness on whose statement the CBI had relied had turned hostile.

Is it not your duty to protect the witnesses?Justice Mohite-Dere asked Singh, and reminded the additional solicitor general that it was the CBIs duty to protect witnesses [from being intimidated or lured by accused persons].

Irked with the fact that most of the prosecution witnesses examined before the special CBI court in the city have turned hostile, the judge also commented that the central agency lacked seriousness with which it ought to have conducted the trial.

You cannot just file a charge sheet and leave it at that, said the judge, who felt that the very objective behind transferring the case from Gujarat to Mumbai  to ensure a fair trial, as the accused persons were very influential  was frustrated by lack of seriousness and inaction on part of the CBI in protecting the witnesses.

On November 23, 2005, Sheikh, a local gangster, was travelling on a Hyderabad-Sangli bus along with his wife Kausarbi and aide Tulsiram Prajapati when they were allegedly abducted by a team of policemen attached to the Gujarat anti-terrorist squad and members of the Special Task Force from Rajasthan. The couple was allegedly detained at a private farm house and two days later, Sheikh was killed in a fake encounter. Kausarbi was allegedly killed the next day.

Tulsiram, who had been shown arrested in a case in Rajasthan, was killed in December 2006  again in an allegedly fake encounter. Sheikh was accused of extorting money from marble traders in Rajasthan, and according to the CBI, the traders had given a contract to the Gujarat and Rajasthan police to eliminate him.Expect to see a lot of repair and beautification work at Bandras Carter Road promenade from next month. The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), which is in charge of ports, coasts and harbours, plans to give the 1,300-m promenade a new look.

According to an MMB official, the promenade will get new triangular paver blocks, as recommended by architect PK Das consultancy. The plan includes strengthening the promenade with a new retaining wall and fixing dilapidated parts. The tender will be floated soon, said the official.

After meeting with MMB officials and local residents on January 30, MLA Ashish Shelar said the work is expected to begin by March 15. He said the work on building the retaining or protecting wall at sea face will be completed before the monsoon and the entire beautification work by November.

After fixing 350-m of the promenade at a cost of Rs1.7 crore, the MMB has set aside Rs4.75 crore for the new retaining wall and tiling work on the entire promenade.

The former contractor had approached the Bombay high court (HC) after being blacklisted for incomplete work. After missing the September 29 deadline, the company, Unitech Construction, finally completed the assigned work in January. Ravi Shetye, a representative of the company, said, We completed the work in 4 weeks although the Court had given us six weeks. We will be bidding for the new tender as well.

Bandra resident Anthony Dsouza said, The former contractors improper tiling and incomplete work left residents hassles. I hope the new work is completed in time.

BOX: ON THE CARDS

Bandras first yoga park, which was supposed to be ready to use on January 26, will finally be completed by March-end

According to architect Anbusivan Ranganathan, 70% of the work has been completed. The civil work is almost completed. We are left with the landscaping now.

The open space at Bandra Reclamation will have posters and scupltures of different yoga positions on the embankment wall

It will also have vertical greenery, a stormwater drain and a set-up to harvest rainwater.A 14-year-old student of a Nalla Sopara school has been left with a ruptured eardrum after his history teacher slapped him for not bringing a book to class. The teacher was arrested on Monday and soon released on bail.

The incident took place in early February, but came to light on Monday. According to the police, Rohit Kota, a Class 8 student of Mother Mary English School, forgot to take his history book to school on February 2. When his teacher Vijal Muchala asked for the book, Rohit said he had left it at home. Four other students, too, had forgotten to get it to class. In a fit of rage, Vijal slapped Rohit so hard that his left ear started to pain. When he returned home, he complained of ache. His ear was bleeding. The doctor said Rohits ear has ruptured partially and he needs a surgery after a week, said his mother Sharvanti Kota.

We took up the matter with the school management. They did not show any remorse. We then complained to the Nalla Sopara police, said Sharvanti.

We have registered a case under sections 325 and 323 of the IPC and also section 23 of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2000. We arrested Vijal, said PI Bharat Jadhav of Nalla Sopara police station.

After the incident, Rohit has stopped attending school. He is too scared, said Kota.

Meanwhile, despite repeated attempts, the principal was unavailable for comment.The Greater Noida-based Gautam Buddha University, which is conducting social impact assessment (SIA) of villages of Jewar where an international airport along the 165km Yamuna Expressway is to be developed, has completed half its job, said the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority on Monday.

After the SIA is completed, the Gautam Budh Nagar district administration will start the process of land acquisition for the airport project.

In the SIA, Gautam Buddha University will mention the land required for the project, number of farmers who will be affected, the economic status of farmers, the financial aspect of the project and the repercussions of the airport on the environment.

The SIA report is a must to start land acquisition for the project. The Union civil aviation ministry, on June 24, 2017, had given its approval for building an international airport in Jewar.

We need to finish the SIA of eight villages in the first phase to start land acquisition along the Yamuna Expressway. The Gautam Buddha University has completed SIA of four villages. And the work on the remaining four villages is on in full swing. As per the timelines, the university will finish the SIA of the remaining four villages by March 15, Shailendra Bhatia, officer on special duty, YEIDA, said.

The SIA will involve the studying of socio-economic conditions of farmers.

The SIA will determine how the airport project will impact the lives of the farmers who own the land where the airport is proposed, Bhatia said.

YEIDA, in November 2017, had selected Singapore-based PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as consultants for the Jewar international airport project. PwC will prepare the techno-economic feasibility report (TEFR) for the airport project by

March 15.

The Gautam Buddha Nagar officials are closely monitoring SIA work, while the PwC work is being monitored by the YEIDA officials themselves.

The YEIDA has put the project on the fast track following instructions from UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath, who is of the opinion that the airport project will impact business along the expressway.The ancillary work on streamlining the traffic for the Hindon elevated road in Vasundhara and Raj Nagar Extension is likely to be done by the end of March. The Ghaziabad development authority (GDA) officials said they will open the elevated road as soon as it gets the environment clearance and not wait till March-end.

The officials of the Ghaziabad development authority said the updated environment impact assessment, as directed by the Ministry of environment, forest & climate change, will be sent soon to the state-level impact assessment authority (SEIAA).

Once we get the environment clearance, the elevated road will be opened to commuters. We are expecting that for the initial two months, issues pertaining to traffic movement will persist but they will be streamlined thereafter. We are expediting the road-widening work and construction of U-turns at Raj Nagar Extension (RNE) crossing, Ritu Maheshwari, vice-chairperson, GDA, said.

However, the removal of poles and laying the electricity cables underground will take time. The intersection will be streamlined by March, she said.

The RNE intersection is a major four-way crossing on the erstwhile NH-58 and it will allow a majority of commuters to take the Hindon elevated road. To remove traffic hurdles, the authority has planned two U-turns on the both ends of a 750-metre stretch and the U-turns will bridge the intersection.

As a result, the traffic from the four directions will take U-turns to move to RNE, Meerut, Delhi and Ghaziabad city.

The other major work of a four-lane traffic rotary at Vasundhara has been expedited. Maheshwari said the shifting of pipelines, posing hindrance to the rotary work in Vasundhara, will be completed within the week.

Under the rotary plan, the present four-lane bridge on the CISF Road will be used for movement of traffic from Vasundhara towards Indirapuram and NH-24. Likewise, a new four-lane bridge is being constructed on the Hindon canal which will cater to commuters coming from NH-24 and Indirapuram.

The two ramps of the elevated road will also open up once the elevated road commences operations. One ramp is for traffic from Vasundhara towards RNE while the other will be for traffic from RNE towards Vasundhara.

The opening of the elevated road will create a mess on the CISF Road as the rotary plan has been delayed. It should have been completed well before the opening of the elevated road. There are nearly 30-40 high-rises which are located along the CISF Road. There will be major traffic bottlenecks as commuters from Noida, NH-24, Indirapuram and Vasundhara use the CISF Road, Alok Kumar, president of federation of association of apartment owners, said.

It will be advisable not to open the two ramps from Vasundhara till the new bridge is constructed. We will speak to the vice-chairperson about these issues, he said.The Noida authority is yet to develop dust-free zones along city roads to mitigate air pollution, as directed by the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution Prevention and Control Authority (EPCA).

On October 28 last year, the EPCA chairman, Bhure Lal, had directed the Noida authority to ensure that roads are made dust-free as they add a lot of particulate matter to the air. Following these instructions, the authority had decided to plant grass and saplings in dug-up areas, conduct mechanical sweeping and put tiles as required along city roads.

Residents said that on-ground reality remains the same despite the emergency measures that had to be adopted in the wake of crop residue burning, which resulted in the worst spell of air pollution the national capital region (NCR) has seen so far.

The Noida authority is only making plans to revamp roads since October. The authority is yet to do anything on the ground. We had a couple of meetings with the authority officials on this issue, but no plan has materialised as yet, Amit Gupta, a resident of Sector 77, said.

The EPCA chairman had conducted an inspection in sectors 73, 74, 75, 76, 77 and 78, among other areas, where housing societies are being built and some have been occupied, after receiving complaints from residents about pollution caused by dusty roads.

After Lals instructions, the authority had said it would refurbish roads in these sectors and do mechanical sweeping.

The authority had sprinkled water on dusty roads for a few days after the inspection. Later, they forgot to repair footpaths. When heavy vehicles ply at high speed, the dust starts flying. The authority must act immediately because residents along these roads suffer, Mahesh Singh, a resident of Sector 78, said.

Residents said the authority should construct proper footpaths and green areas immediately after a housing society is occupied by homebuyers.

When many housing towers (in a society) are occupied, it is the duty of the authority to provide facilities such as clean and dust-free roads and footpaths, Sandip Arora, of Sector 76, said.

The Noida authority had decided to revamp roads in sectors 73, 74, 75, 76, 77 and 78, among other areas. But it is yet to even draw estimates for these works.

Omvir Singh, director of horticulture department, said, The plans to plant grass and saplings have been discussed. We will begin work once tenders are finalised.Around 2,000 women set two Guinness world records under a single roof on Sunday at Deccan College ground to spread awareness about breast cancer. The breast cancer awareness programme was organised by Open Your Eyes (OYE) Foundation, in association with Prashanti Cancer Care Mission (NGO trust) and Orchids Breast Health Clinic.

The two records made were the most number of people painting their fingernails simultaneously and the largest female health awareness lesson. While the first one was already attempted in Mumbai last year on March 8, with 1,328 individuals painting their fingernails at the same time, the trial for the second title was held for the first time. At the occasion, a total of 1,956 individuals painted their nails pink in six minutes and set a new Guinness world record, while a total of 1,919 women were part of the mass breast cancer awareness lesson.

There have been a number of initiatives for breast cancer awareness worldwide, but in terms of setting a record with the specific cause in mind, this is the first time anyone has ever done it, said Lucia Sinigagliesi, Guinness world records adjudicator on the records. The cause of breast cancer is what makes the records special. In others parts of the world, including the western countries, the subject of breast cancer is still inhibited. More women and men need to come out, speak and address it, she added.

At the session, one of the doctors, Dr Chandanand Koppikar said, Everyone needs to know that breast cancer is completely curable. No one should be scared or depressed in case they are diagnosed with it. However, an early diagnosis is always good. With advanced technology, we dont have to resort to mastectomy, which is removal of the affected breast, but can opt for breast conservation or reconstruction surgery.

Through the programme, we wanted to highlight the importance of knowing about breast cancer, especially for the youth. We realised that the prevalence of such a serious disease needs to be discussed about among young girls and boys at a young age so that they can grow into healthy and aware citizens. Further, they can share their knowledge with their families. Children are the best medium to build a strong pathway of change in the society, and therefore, we concentrated on educating them about breast cancer. In the process, we also emphasised that not only women, but even men are affected by breast cancer, said Simran Jethwani, founder, OYE Foundation.

Lila Poonawalla, philanthropist and founder of a non-governmental organisation promoting professional education for women, was also present at the event along with her husband, Firoz Poonawalla.A Class 4 student of St Josephs School, Sector 44, Chandigarh, was killed, while his sister and two other students were injured, after a Punjab Roadways bus rammed into their school bus on the Kharar-Morinda road on Monday morning.

Due to the overnight showers, the road became slippery, not allowing the Roadways driver to stop the bus in time, said investigating officer, assistant sub-inspector (ASI) Sukhwinder Singh. The impact of the collision caused shards of windowpane to slit the boys throat and hurt his head, killing him on the spot.

The deceased has been identified as Samarth Sachdeva, 10. His sister, Khwaish Sachdeva, 13, received three stitches on the right ear, while Aayushi Rana, 9, received minor injuries. Another student Aarav, who sustained injuries on the head, was referred to Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, officials at the Kharar civil hospital said.

The students were on way for their examinations when the accident took place. The bus was ferrying around 10 children.

Police said the school bus driver, Dharminder Sharma, put out his hand and signalled before taking a right turn from the highway into a street to pick up two students from GBP Society, Kharar, around 7:15am. But, Balbir Singh, the driver of the Punjab Roadways bus, who was coming from the opposite side of the road, could not brake in time and rammed his vehicle into the rear of the school bus. Balbir fled leaving his vehicle behind.

Onlookers said the Punjab Roadways bus was full to its capacity, but its passengers escaped unhurt. After the accident, some of them stepped out and beat up the school bus driver for his alleged negligence, leaving him with minor injuries.

A case under Section 304A (causing death by negligence), 279 (rash driving ) and 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) has been registered against Balbir Singh, who is absconding.Even as the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) activists have been campaigning and protesting against Valentines Day celebrations for years, the Hindu outfits international working president Pravin Togadia in a contrary stance has said young men and women had the right to love, and there will be no protests or violence on Valentines Day.

In Chandigarh on Sunday to address the VHP and Bajrang Dal supporters ahead of Valentines Day, Togadia said, Prem nahi karenge to vivah nahi hoga, vivah nahi hoga to srishti kaise chalegi? Yuva aur yuvtiyon ko prem karne ka poora adhikar hai. Vo adhikar unhe milna chaiye (If couples dont fall in love, therell be no marriages. If therell be no marriages, the world wont progress. Young men and women have the right to love, and they should get this right).

Togadia also criticised the Mehbooba Mufti government in Jammu and Kashmir for withdrawing the case against stone pelters in Kashmir.

Stating that he had given directions against holding protests, he said, Maine sandesh de diya hai ki hamari beti ko bhi pyar karne ka haq hai aur hamari behen ko bhi pyar karne ka adhikar hai (I have passed on the message that our daughters and sisters also have the right to love).

The VHP and Bajrang Dal workers have for years been demanding a ban on Valentines Day in India, terming it anti-Hindu and anti-Indian.

Declare war against Pakistan

Condemning the attack on Jammus Sunjuwan Army camp where five army personnel were killed, Togadia said the army should be directed to initiate a war against Pakistan.

Our army should prepare for a war and attack Pakistan immediately. Pakistan needs a lesson. Its name should be removed from the world map, Togadia fumed, while questioning till when are we going to continue conversation with Pakistan? We are losing our soldiers because of it, he said.

Togadia also criticised the Mehbooba Mufti government in Jammu and Kashmir for withdrawing the case against stone pelters in Kashmir. How dare the government not take action against those who threw stones at our army? The stone pelters disgraceful conduct needs to be put a stop to. Also the Kashmiri Hindus should be given back their homes.The annual audit report of the Chandigarh municipal corporation has pointed out serious irregularities in the withdrawal of Rs 1 crore by the civic bodys medical officer, health, (MOH) Dr Parminder Singh Bhatti, from Swachh Bharat Mission funds without the approval of the local audit department.

The report, submitted last week, said withdrawal of funds for the mission without a pre-audit, the first step in the process of the audit, and requisite approvals were in contravention of Section 176(2) of the Punjab Municipal Corporation Act, 1976, as extended to the UT.

Entries in cash book not verified Discrepancies have also been mentioned in the audit report in the records of MCs accounts department. Referring to the MCs main cash book related to its Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC) current account No. 33490, the report said not a single entry in the cash book has been verified and initialled by the drawing and disbursing officer. A monthly abstract had not been prepared in the cash book and only the entries of income and expenditure had been entered. Reasons for difference of balance in the cash book and the bank account mentioned, including FDRs, had not been ascertained and noted in the cash book every month-end, the report said. The income transferred from the bank accounts being maintained by the MC to its sub offices: In Manimajra, MOH, fire services and engineering wing to the OBC Current Account No. 00382010033490 had not been taken as income in the main cash book. The cash book had also not been signed by the officer authorised by the commissioner MC to sign on cheques as per Section 78(b) of Punjab Municipal Act, 1976, as extended to Chandigarh

As the Swachh Bharat Mission in this case is the MCs resident scheme, its funds can be withdrawn only after pre-audit and cleared by the audit wing. Bhatti withdrew the funds without any approvals.

Money was withdrawn in two instalments, Rs 1 lakh was taken out in February 2016 and Rs 1 crore withdrawn in one day in March 2016. Dr Bhatti transferred Rs 1 crore to the public health wing without getting the bill passed by the local audit department. He also withdrew Rs 1 lakh for his own travelling allowance, also a serious irregularity, the report said.

Dr Bhatti did not respond to repeated calls and WhatApp messages. When contacted, mayor Davesh Moudgil, however, said, It is a serious irregularity and I will look into it. The audit officer has asked Dr Bhatti why the funds were withdrawn and recommended that the competent authority to take action against him.

Vehicle log books show discrepancies

The audit report has also pointed to discrepancies in the log books of vehicles provided to the MOH office. A log book page certificate, mentioning details of average consumption of petrol or diesel by vehicles, had not been maintained.

Lists of controlling officers of the vehicles declared by the competent authority had also not been provided to auditors, log books were not being verified or signed by the controlling officers with dates and monthly fuel consumption details. Vehicle runs during the month were not being verified or signed off by the controlling officers.A bubbly girl who believes focus and regularity are the key to cracking the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), Darpan Mavi loves the authority that comes with being the head girl.

Name: Darpan Mavi

Born: June 19, 2000

Badge of honour: Head girl, Guru Nanak Public School, Chandigarh

On turning 18

Its the advent of a new life. I will step into adulthood, leave my school and go to a new college. It will be challenging but I enjoy a good challenge.

What do I want to be and why

I want to be a doctor as my mother has always wanted me to become one. It is her dream that I plan to fulfil. But eventually I want to launch an event management company as I love celebrations. Thats my passion.

Fear and fantasy

My biggest fear is of bringing disrepute to my parents. I dont want to do anything that would cause my parents to hang their heads in shame.

As for fantasy, I want to organise one of the biggest and most dazzling events of the world.

What makes me angry

I get furious when I hear about rape or crime against children. Its also infuriating to see young people going astray and indulging in indiscipline. I cant stand liars and doublespeak either.

What makes me happy?

I like celebrating everything, right from our festivals to birthdays and anniversaries. It gives me great happiness to make others happy. I specially enjoy going to the village for festivals.

My idea of India

India is the worlds largest democracy with a rich heritage and culture. No one is as warm and welcoming as Indians. We also like to pursue lofty ideals.

What I dislike the most about India

I cant stand the rampant lawlessness, the streak of indiscipline which pervades our people.

The change you would like to see in India

I want us to have very stringent rules to curb corruption and crime. We should also invest in our youth by increasing the budgetary spend on education. Teachers should be given more respect.

What I admire the most about India

I really admire the courage and fortitude of the Indian soldier. I am an NCC cadet and commander of the school wing of NCC.

Religion to me

Its a personal matter. All religions teach the same values of humanity. But religion is for us, we are not for religion. We shouldnt be typecast by our religion.

Money to me

Money can get you some things, but it cant get you everything. I value it but I dont think it should be the be all and end all of your existence.

Changes I want to see in Chandigarh

Chandigarh is called the City Beautiful, we should keep it that way. We should follow the traffic rules to avoid death on roads. We should also keep the citys dignity by not littering.

I cant live without

I cant live without laughter or happiness. I cant imagine life without my family and friends.

On social media

I use it. Thanks to it, we are all connected with each other. Its so easy to access news; what is happening in one part of the world gets transmitted to the other real time. It enables you to help others no matter where you are. It also widens your thought process, but like in all other things, moderation is the key.

My role model

I dont really have one but I admire Taapsee Pannu, the model, actor and entrepreneur. She was an engineer who became a successful model despite having people tell her that she didnt have the right looks. Then she went on to succeed as an actor and has set up an event management company.

Am I happy at the moment?

I am very happy. I spent 12 years of my life in the school, now I am savouring my last days here.Earlier this month, Amala Paul felt humiliated after she was reportedly asked for sexual favours by a businessman, and hence was forced to approach police. Talking to reporters soon after filing a police complaint, Amala said that the man asked for sexual favors and used vulgar language while she was rehearsing for an event in Malaysia, in a dance studio in Chennai. Actor Vishal appreciated Amalas boldness to take up the incident with the police.

On Sunday, Amala thanked Vishal for standing by her side. Thank you Vishal for standing by me and assuring me that I must not let it go, and I didnt; now I believe its every womans duty, to not let it go and stand for themselves. He was ready to trade me off like a meatloaf, his guts make me sick, and his existence makes me sick #MeToo, tweeted Amala.

Thank you Vishal for standing by me and assuring me that I must not let it go, and I didnt, now I believe its every womans duty, to not let it go and stand for themselves. He was ready to trade me off like a meatloaf, his guts make me sick, his existence makes me sick #MeToo https://t.co/SEPrE4bxPr  Amala Paul  (@Amala_ams) February 10, 2018

Having made her Tamil debut in Myna, Amala has worked on projects such as Thaandavam, Thalaivaa and Amma Kanakku. She was briefly married to filmmaker Vijay, with whom she had worked in a few projects. The couple later got separated following some issues. Last seen on screen in Thiruttu Payale 2, Amala will be next seen in Tamil films Bhaskar Oru Rascal and Raatchasan. She also has a couple of Malayalam projects in her kitty.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

ott:10:ht-entertainment_listing-desktopAfter winning over audiences and critics alike with his latest outing Tholi Prema, a moving story of first love and separation, actor Varun Tej will next collaborate with Sankalp Reddy, director of the critically-acclaimed submarine-based war film Ghazi. Their new film will be a space drama which will feature Varun in the role of an astronaut. The project is expected to go on the floors from April and the makers are planning for year-end release.

According to producer Y Rajeev Reddy, the team along with Varun and Sankalp will head to Kazakhstan for month-long training in zero gravity conditions in March. Originally planned to be shot in the US, the film will now be shot in Georgia where special sets and rigs will be built. The team will rope in stuntmen from Hollywood to shoot the action sequences. Before the team leaves to Kazakhstan for training, the rest of the cast and crew will be finalised. Apparently, its said to be a story of four astronauts on a mission and Sankalp is busy scouting actors for other key roles in the film.

National award-winning director Krish, who is currently helming Kangana Ranauts Manikarnika, will be co-producing the film with Rajeev and his partner. Gnana Sekhar, who worked on Balakrishnas Gauthamiputra Satakarni, has been roped in to crank the camera.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

ott:10:ht-entertainment_listing-desktopOn Sunday, the timelines of social media users got flooded with a viral clip from a forthcoming Malayalam film Oru Adaar Love. The clip featured a girl winking at a classmate. The widely shared video left everybody asking for the name of the actor.

Later, she turned out to be Priya Prakash Varrier who is making her debut in films with Oru Adaar Love. We dug deep into the matter and found out everything you wanted to know about her.

Priya, who is a model and singer, went to Vimala College in Thrissur. Intrestingly, this isnt the only viral video she has featured in. Earlier, a video of her crooning Bollywood number Channa Mereya went viral. A trained classical dancer, Priya plays a high-school student in her first film. The boy featured in the video is Roshan Abdul Rahoof.

Heres the video that shot Priya to fame on social media

After realising her new found stardom, Priya tweeted, Thank you so much for the love and support for #ManikyaMalarayaPoovi#OruAdaarLove. 4.3 Million views for YouTube & counting, 600k+ for me going bigger in Instagram. #MondayMotivation #PriyaPrakashVarrier.

The release date of Oru Adaar Love hasnt been announced yet.

Here are some of her Instagram posts:

Be your own kind of BEAUTIFUL!!! A post shared by priya prakash varrier (@priya.p.varrier) on Sep 12, 2017 at 5:53am PDT

Mohiniyattom A post shared by priya prakash varrier (@priya.p.varrier) on Dec 15, 2016 at 12:46am PST

ott:10:ht-entertainment_listing-desktopMcMafia

Cast - James Norton, David Strathairn, Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Rating - 3/5

Russian gangsters are an underrepresented lot. And judging by their alarmingly showy personalities, theyd probably be rather annoyed about it. Quick disclaimer: this observation is based on what the movies have shown us and not, as some of you might have guessed, on personal encounters. In any case, ask anyone what they know about Russian Mafia and theyd probably try and recall Eastern Promises, or to make a deep cut, Little Odessa. But ask anyone about the Italians, or even the Mexicans, and theyd have a wealth of material to draw from.

The new Amazon show, McMafia  which isnt really an Amazon Original, though, as theyve just acquired it  should satisfy every Russian gangster who tunes in. Finally, heres an entire show about their distinct methods of doing business, although most of it  which theyd observe to their further annoyance  is not based on a Russian folktale or something by one of the Great Russian Novelists, but on The Godfather.

Such is the influence of Francis Ford Coppolas classic on McMafia, inspired by Misha Glennys non-fiction book that, were some slight changes to be made, it could easily qualify as a TV spinoff. And while that might sound like a criticism, it isnt. Remakes arent inherently a bad thing (weve seen too many good ones to know that). And as far as remakes go, you could do worse than McMafia, a show that follows the plot of The Godfather with the adoration of a smitten teenager, cloning characters, replicating plot points, and honouring legacies.

McMafia traces the ongoing saga of the Godmans, a Russian crime family based in London. Dimitri Godman is an aging mob boss who wants to legitimise his family business, one that his son, Alex has distanced himself from. Alex, as youve probably guessed, is the Michael Corleone in this story. He even has his own Kay Adams. But when a hit on a big Russian businessman leaves an empty seat at the top, gangsters from all over the world rush to fill it.

A Game of Thrones ensues, and Alex Godman, once the outcast, finds himself attracted to the thug life. But before he can cement his position as the head of the Russian underworld, he must contend with other Russian gangsters, the ones with the prison tattoos and the works. And the Russians arent alone. There are also several Israeli gangsters, (one gay Israeli gangster; I mention his sexual orientation because its relevant to the plot) a Mexican Cartel and the Indians.

Which brings us to Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and a rather important point. It has become increasingly common for movies and shows about India produced in the West to be more honest about our country than we are, to the point that we can almost rely on them for a refreshing reality check. Whether its politics (An Insignificant Man) or poverty (Lion), its a disappointing truth that we are rarely unburdened by the threat of some sort of retaliation.

One of the first words Nawazuddins character says sent through me a jolt of disbelief so strong that I had to rewind and note down exactly what he said. These words were spoken in what appears to be a Mumbai dance bar, to the aforementioned gay Israeli gent, during a business deal in which Nawazuddins character is haggling for more money, as a song from DDLJ blares on the speakers. When the Israeli gangster lowballs him, Nawazuddin says, Im a Muslim. In this country, every dollar is 50 cents for me. There is the police, the city hall, the Shiv Sena listing authorities that have to be bribed. And as expected, Nawaz is tremendous in the scene, as he is in the entire eight episode series, even though he doesnt appear in every episode.

To hear him deliver words written by Hossein Amini, the writer of one of my favourite films of all time, Drive, is not something youd expect, but is exactly what youd imagine. Amini, who along with director James Watkins, is credited as the co-creator of McMafia and had previously shown that he could write stories about the Russian mob  his last film was the John le Carre adaptation, Our Kind of Traitor  proves that hes deft with organised crime (and criminals) from around the world.

McMafia, despite being overly familiar for the first four episodes, is a well-written, carefully plotted, and impressively shot tale. Lead James Norton might not possess the raw force necessary for James Bond (for a while before Daniel Craig confirmed his return, Norton was rumoured to be in the running for 007), but he certainly has what it takes to play a tough-to-crack charmer. He navigates drama, action and romance with surprising bravado, despite a rather understated outward demeanour.

McMafia isnt the gold standard for this sort of thing but its so well-made that even long stretches of inactivity (with subtitles) arent as dull as they could have been.

Watch the McMafia trailer here

Follow @htshowbiz for more

The author tweets @RohanNaaharPresident Xi Jinping usually, depending on the occasion, wears a western suit, or a windbreaker that looks perfectly efficient on him or occasionally when he is attending military events, military fatigues.

Last Sunday, Xi took a break from his routine clothes and picked up something unusual from his wardrobe.

During an interaction with members of the minority Yi community in southwest Chinas Sichuan province, Xi wore a flowing white cloak, very much like a poncho, slung over his shoulder.

The white cloak, called chaerwa in Chinese, is a hand-sewn woollen poncho-like mantle worn by people of Yi ethnic group, state media reported.

In photos published by state media outlets, Xi was shown shaking hands and interacting with community members who were dressed in ethnic finery.

Besides his message on eliminating poverty, the flowing chaerwa was immediately noticed.

His unusual dressing - a white cloak  raised curiosity among netizens, state-run English newspaper China Daily reported.

Most comments on the dress, it seems, were subsequently censored as the general secretary of the Communist Party of China possibly tops of the list of sensitive topics.

The cloak is woven with quality sheep wool in Liangshan Yi autonomous prefecture. It usually takes about one month to finish making one chaerwa. Yi people wear it to keep warm in daytime and use it for bedding at night, the report said.

An earlier Xinhua article quoted by The New York Times had described Xis favourite windbreaker jacket as something that reflects the aura of Mr Efficiency.

No need for ironing, neat, stain-resistant, and with a common touch, the Xinhua article said.

Usually, the state media focusses on what Chinas first couple, especially Xis wife Peng Liyuan, wears when they travel abroad.

Xi and Peng: A stylish couple in lovers clothes, state-controlled tabloid Global Times wrote recently.

The clothes of Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, have always been a highlight when they visit other countries. The couple arrived in Seattle, Washington on September 22 in their classic style of loversclothes, it said in a report. It added the couple wore outfits that made them look harmonious.Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has told his soldiers to shoot female rebels in their genitals, with his remarks also included in the official transcript of his speech released by his communications office.

Duterte, who had been the mayor of Davao before becoming president, was addressing a group of former communist rebels at the Heroes Hall in the Malacanang Palace  his official residence  on February 7 when he made the remarks.

Tell the soldiers. Theres a new order coming from mayor. We wont kill you. We will just shoot your vaginas so that... If there are no vaginas, it would be useless, he said, with media reports saying that his speech seemed to imply that women are useless without their genitals.

The transcript released by the presidential communications office replaced the word vagina with a dash.

He also criticised female fighters for abandoning their families to join the communist movement.

Rights activists have expressed their dismay over the comments

Human Rights Watch, in a statement to Al Jazeera, said Dutertes remarks were just the latest in a series of misogynist, derogatory and demeaning statements he has made about women.

Washington Post quoted a representative for Gabriela, a feminist organisation, as saying that Duterte has been pushing the fascist (v) to commit more bloody human rights violations and grave abuses of international humanitarian law, and takes state terrorism against women and the people to a whole new level.

This is not the first time Dutertes comments about women have caused controversy.

In 2016, while running for president, Duterte had made a joke about the rape and murder of an Australian missionary in 1989, the Daily Mail reported.  I was angry because she was raped, thats one thing. But she was so beautiful, the mayor should have been first, he had said.

In January, during a visit to New Delhi, he told Indian and Filipino business leaders that he would like to attract visitors to the Philippines by offering 42 virgins, Al Jazeera reported.

However, his spokesperson Harry Roque has said that Dutertes critics should lighten up, accusing activists of over-reacting.

You know, sometimes, these feminists are really a bit (over-reacting)... I mean, thats funny. Come on. Just laugh, he said.For four straight days last month, Rahim Muddinn watched, amazed, as Myanmars state-run newspapers published special supplements showing Rohingya Muslims accused of being terrorists  nearly 250 photos each day.

For the 41-year-old Rohingya man, it was a surreal moment. He was born and raised in Yangon, Myanmars biggest city and far from the western state of Rakhine, where bloody military operations that followed Rohingya militant attacks in August have driven nearly 700,000 Rohingya into refugee camps in Bangladesh.

When we first saw those pictures, we started laughing. We wondered: When will it be our turn to have our pictures in the paper? Muddinn, a teacher, said in an interview in his Yangon home.

Behind the laughter, though, there is genuine fear.

The pictures are the latest in a series of chilling realizations for the Rohingya minority here. Though Yangons tree-lined boulevards and weathered colonial architecture seem a world away from the rice paddies and isolated villages of Rakhine  let alone the tarp-walled huts of the teeming refugee camps  the government is increasingly linking Rohingya across the country with what it calls a terrorist threat, Muddinn and others say.

Rohingya in Yangon describe a sense of rising persecution and hatred, of vanishing freedoms and opportunities, of Buddhist neighbors and friends suddenly more willing to publicly express sympathies with the militarys destruction of Rohingya villages in Rakhine.

One day it really could be my picture in the paper, said Muddinn. Like most of the other Rohingya who spoke with The Associated Press, he used his Rohingya name because of safety worries. I do have anxiety. The government can detain anyone it says is a supporter of terrorism or anyone viewed as a threat to the state.

Though Rohingya have always been persecuted in the country, it got much worse after 2012, when violence in Rakhine killed hundreds and drove about 140,000 people, most of them Rohingya, from their homes to camps. Violence flared again in 2016 and, most dramatically, following the August attacks, when refugees report widespread killing and rape by Myanmar forces. The AP last month confirmed, through extensive interviews with survivors and time-stamped video, a massacre and at least five mass graves, all previously unreported, in the Rakhine village of Gu Dar Pyin.

Many Rohingya have been in Myanmar for generations, but, increasingly, the government and media have played up their claim that theyre not citizens but illegal Bengali interlopers who entered Myanmar from Bangladesh with the help of corrupt immigration officers.

There are non-Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, and they often report rising discrimination, especially those in Rakhine. But generally their situation is less precarious than the Rohingya.

Myanmars government denies discriminating against Rohingya and other Muslims.

Its totally not true that Muslims in the cities like Yangon have no freedom of movement or lack the same rights as other populations, said Aung San Win, director general of Myanmars Ministry of Religion. Everyone is granted rights to freedom by the constitution, including Muslims. There is no discrimination in the country.

In Yangon, however, hate speech against Rohingya has risen, and Buddhists who were once friends and colleagues now shun Muddinns family. Muddinn believes the government is now trying to portray all Rohingya as terrorists.

When he hears a motorcycle rev its engines near his home after midnight, he wonders if a policeman is coming to detain him. His wife, Amina, hasnt left their home by herself since 2012 because of shame and fear after a Buddhist spit on her.

Why did it happen? Because she was wearing a burqa.

Two Muslim women take a stroll through downtown Yangon, Myanmar. (AP)

Not far away, Kyaw Min, a well-known Rohingya activist and president of the Democracy and Human Rights Party, brandishes the newspaper photos of alleged terrorists.

The government, he said in his party headquarters, is trying to make it so that nearly every Rohingya family in Rakhine state will be associated with an accused terrorist if the refugees in Bangladesh ever return to Myanmar.

Safety is a worry even in Yangon. He said he no longer leaves his home at night or travels alone around the city. Some party members have been attacked, and he has suffered intense abuse on social media, with people calling him rubbish and an interloper from Bangladesh.

Early last year, a gunman killed Ko Ni, a prominent member of Myanmars Muslim minority and a legal adviser for the ruling National League for Democracy party. He was shot in the head at the Yangon airport.

Ko Ni, who wasnt Rohingya, had criticized the NLD in 2015 for not putting up Muslim candidates in the general election.

Since August, abuse has intensified, and Rohingya leaders risk their safety if they speak out publicly. We feel this everywhere, said Kyaw Min, who spent years in prison on what he calls politically motivated charges.

Though most Rohingya worry less about their political future and more about putting food on their plates, the sense of discrimination and persecution is a heavy burden. All of them, says Kyaw Min, will have some sort of scar in their hearts.

A Buddhist monk walks past a shop selling Islamic religious items in downtown Yangon, Myanmar. (AP)

The word Rohingya is a dangerous thing to be called in this country, said Ajas, 26, a college student in Yangon, who, like some other Rohingya, uses only a single name. The government has brainwashed the whole country into thinking that we are illegal immigrants.

Few local NGOs or Buddhist activists will stand up for the Rohingya, but Ajas said he and others are trying to talk with liberal Buddhists and other moderate minds.

Still, he is the only Rohingya in his class and sometimes has problems with Buddhists when he describes himself as Rohingya. They dont accept that word because they say there is no such thing as that concept in this country.

Like many Rohingya in Yangon, Mohammad Warris, another college student, usually keeps his national ID card in a safe at home. The cards, which are used to apply for school, to set up bank accounts and to get passports, are irreplaceable without a huge bribe, he said, because Myanmar has long tried to take them from Rohingya as a way to more easily strip them of citizenship.

If I didnt have this, I wouldnt be able to survive. I could be caught by the police and jailed as a Bengali terrorist, Warris, 24, said.

They are hated by the mass of Burmese because they simply exist, a 20-year-old student at the University of Yangon says of the Rohingya during an interview in an empty classroom, ceiling fans whirring overhead.

Though the student, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of safety worries, is a rare example of a Buddhist at the school willing to regularly defend the Rohingya, he wont do it on the streets.

Its too precarious, he said. If I say genocide in public, the government would put me in jail for years.

Buddhists at the university have accused the student, whose parents are Buddhists from Rakhine, of having Rohingya blood and of taking money from foreign governments and NGOs. A nationalist friend told him he had informed on him to police for insulting Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi and said he would be sued. He said, Youre destroying your own country by sympathizing with terrorists.

He still speaks up in class to defend the Rohingya, but he doesnt describe himself as an activist anymore and has focused lately on his studies. I can do better work (for the Rohingya) as a researcher than if I was in jail.

People walk past the Sule Pagoda, left, in downtown Yangon, Myanmar. (AP Photo)

One day last year, Muddinn sat with some friends sipping tea at a cafe in his neighborhood when the Buddhist driver of a bicycle rickshaw smashed purposely into the side of a car driven by a Muslim man. It was not the first time the neighbors had seen this Buddhist slam into Muslim cars.

The Buddhist got off his bicycle, screaming insults at the Muslim and trying to punch him.

I was really furious, Muddinn said. But he did nothing, even though he describes himself as short-tempered. Even if were the victims, he said, the police will see us as the perpetrators because were Muslim.

I feel trapped, Muddinn said. There is no guarantee for our future. I want to stay in this country forever, but now my faith is shaken and I wonder if I will have to move away.Two arrested Supreme Court justices and a former president had been plotting to overthrow the government of the Maldives, officials in the Indian Ocean nation said, announcing they had found more than $200,000 in suspicious money in searches since a state of emergency was declared last week in the high-end tourist haven.

Lawyers and opposition leaders quickly rejected the accusations, saying President Yameen Abdul Gayoom was using the state of emergency to weaken his political opponents.

A proper investigation would not hide under cover of the State of Emergency, or shy away from the clear light of rule of law, Maumoon Hameed, the lawyer for former dictator Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, wrote on Twitter. Gayoom, now an opposition leader, was among a group of prominent Maldivians arrested last week.

Hamid Abdul Gaffoor, a spokesman for the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party, dismissed the accusations. All you can say is that its a big joke, he said.

A Sunday statement from the presidents office said Gayoom had bribed government officials and judges and encouraged riots. It also said he and the two arrested justices were attempting to overthrow the government.

During the searches, large amounts of cash have been discovered ... hidden under a mattress in the home of a court official, according to a Sunday police statement. Authorities also found a bag with $215,000 in US currency and about $10,000 worth of Maldivian currency belonging to one of the arrested justices, the statement said.

A total of eight people have been arrested, officials said.

Yameen has rolled back many of the democratic gains the Maldives had made in recent years. His government had jailed many opposition leaders and curbed freedom of speech and assembly, with heavy fines imposed on journalists and social media users found guilty of defamation.

Exiled former President Mohammed Nasheed, now Yameens main political rival, wrote on Twitter last week that under the guise of an emergency, Yameen has gone after groups from the opposition to the media.

Political chaos has shaken the government since early February, when the Supreme Court ordered that a group of imprisoned opposition leaders, including Nasheed, be freed. The government quickly pushed back against that order, eventually declaring a state of emergency and arresting the two Supreme Court justices and other politicians.

But other than a handful of protests in Male, the capital, the country remains calm, with shops and offices open. While a number of countries have urged travellers to be cautious, Male is far from most of the archipelagos tourist destinations, which are mostly on far-flung islands.Twelve militants were killed on Monday in Egypts restive North and Central Sinai region, the Army said as it launched a major operation to flush out insurgents, a day after eliminating 16 terrorists.

As many as 92 suspected terrorists were arrested, while 60 militant targets, 30 shelters and 27 unlicensed motor-bikes used by them were destroyed during the raids, the Army said in a statement.

On Sunday, the Army had raided locations in North Sinai, killing 16 terrorists and arresting 30 suspected militants. 66 terrorist points, arms depots, 11 vehicles and 31 unlicensed motor-bikes used by militants were also destroyed.

Law enforcement agencies had announced on February 9 that they will be on maximum alert for the duration of Operation Sinai 2018.

North Sinai has witnessed many terrorists attacks since the January 2011 revolution. The attacks, mainly targeting police and military, increased after the ouster of Islamist ex-president Mohamed Morsi in 2013 by military following massive protests against his rule.

Hundreds of police and army personnel have been killed since.

The military has launched security campaigns in the North Sinai area, in which some terrorists are based.

The security forces have arrested suspects and demolished houses that belong to terrorists, including those facilitating tunnels leading to the Gaza Strip.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had in November ordered the military forces to restore security in Sinai within three months, after militants killed more than 300 worshippers at a mosque.

The attack was said to be the deadliest terrorist attack in Egypts modern history.A week ahead of a crucial meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on terror financing, Pakistans President Mamnoon Hussain has signed an ordinance aimed at cracking down on individuals and groups sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council.

The ordinance amends a section of the Anti-Terrorism Act and enables authorities to take action against the sanctioned individuals and groups, such as sealing their offices and freezing their bank accounts, The Express Tribune reported on Monday citing sources in the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA).

The interior, finance and foreign ministries as well as NACTAs Counter Financing of Terrorism wing are working on the issue, the sources said.

An official in the presidency familiar with the development confirmed the signing of the ordinance but did not share details. The official added the defence ministry was the notifying authority.

The relevant ministry will notify and comment on it, the official said.

A crucial plenary meeting of the FATF, which will assess Pakistans efforts to choke funding to the Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jamaat-ud-Dawah and LeT founder Hafiz Saeed, will be held in Paris during February 18-23. The FATF has sought a report from Pakistan on its actions, noting that all funding for the terror groups had not been halted.

The UN Security Council has also sanctioned Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), a front for the LeT, al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi.

In December, reports had suggested that the government had plans to take over the JuD and the FIF. In January, the government barred companies and individuals from making donations to the JuD, the FIF and other organisations.

While the LeT has been banned by Pakistan, the JuD and the FIF are on a watch list.Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain has promulgated an ordinance to amend the countrys Anti-Terrorism Act to list groups sanctioned by the UN Security Council  including the Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) and the Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF)  as terror organisations.

The ordinance promulgated late last week was made public on Monday. Under the existing provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act, groups sanctioned by the UN Security Council were not automatically listed as terror organisations in Pakistan. The ordinance amends Sections 11B and 11EE to include groups that have been sanctioned by the UN Security Council.

The move came a week ahead of a crucial meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on terror financing in Paris, that will assess Pakistans efforts to choke funding to the Lashkar-e-Taiba, JuD, and LeT founder Hafiz Saeed.

The JuD and FiF had not been banned by Pakistan, even though the US and the UN had sanctioned them after the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Both groups were on a watch list maintained by Pakistans National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA).

JuD was put on the watch list soon after the Mumbai attacks and FiF was included in the list in 2012.

The ordinance will also have an impact on the al-Qaeda linked al-Akhtar Trust and al-Rasheed Trust which had already been sanctioned by the UN.Foreign secretary Boris Johnson has sharpened criticism of Myanmars state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi over the Rohingya issue, doubting if she understood the full horror of the crisis that led the UN to describe it as a textbook case of ethnic cleansing.

Johnson, on a visit to Bangladesh and Myanmar, has been articulating growing concern in London in recent months over the refugee crisis that has seen a large number of Rohingya Muslims flee state persecution from the Myanmars Rakhine state.

After meeting Suu Kyi in Yangon, Johnson told BBC: To be honest, I dont really think she understands the full horror. I dont think she has been up in a helicopter to see what we have seen. I believe in her leadership but am sad to see what is happening to Burma now.

Britain continues to refer to the country by its pre-colonial name of Burma.

However, the official communique from the Foreign Office on the meeting was less forthright. It quoted Johnson as expressing to her his deep concern about the future of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. The UK is a major donor to help deal with the crisis.

Johnson said: I underlined the importance of the Burmese authorities carrying out a full and independent investigation into the violence in Rakhine, and to hold to account those responsible for human rights violations.

I underlined the urgency of creating the conditions in Rakhine that could make it a safe place for the Rohingya refugees to return to, free from fear, and in the knowledge that their basic rights will be respected and upheld.

To BBC, he added: I have to say that, talking to politicians in the capital, listening to Daw Suu, I don't think it has come through to her the full extent of the horror that has happened, the sheer devastation.

"I have seen nothing like it in my lifetime. Hundreds of villages torched. It is absolutely devastating and I think that what is needed now is some leadership, working with the UN agencies to get these people back home."

Before travelling to Myanmar, Johnson visited a refugee camp in Coxs Bazar in Bangladesh and met Prime Minster Sheikh Hasina.The United States is urging allied nations to help deal with the growing number of foreign fighters that are being held by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, saying the militants should be turned over to face justice in their home countries.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis is expected to raise the issue during a meeting in Rome this week with other members of the coalition that is fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria.

The SDF is currently holding thousands of IS detainees, including hundreds of foreign fighters from a number of nations. The issue became more prominent in recent days, after the announcement that the SDF had captured two notorious British members of an Islamic State cell who were commonly dubbed the Beatles and were known for beheading hostages.

US officials have said putting the two in the Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, detention facility is not an option. And British leaders have suggested they dont want the two men returned to Britain.

Were working with the coalition on foreign fighter detainees, and generally expect these detainees to return to their country of origin for disposition, said Kathryn Wheelbarger, the principal deputy assistant defense secretary for international security affairs. Defense ministers have the obligation and the opportunity to really explain to their other ministers or their other Cabinet officials just the importance to the mission, to the campaign, to make sure that theres an answer to this problem.

Speaking to reporters travelling with Mattis to Europe, Wheelbarger said the key goal is to keep the fighters off the battlefield and unable to travel to other cities.

The capacity problem is very real, Wheelbarger said, noting that at one point the SDF was capturing as many as 40 militants a day. Success in the campaign means you get more people off the battlefield. ... These facilities are eventually going to be full.

US military officials have confirmed that El Shafee Elsheikh and Alexanda Amon Kotey, who grew up in London, were captured in early January in eastern Syria.

US officials have interrogated the men, who were part of the IS cell that captured, tortured and beheaded more than two dozen hostages, including American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, and American aid worker Peter Kassig.

This combination of pictures shows captured British Islamic State (IS) group fighters El Shafee el-Sheikh (L) and Alexanda Kotey (R), posing for mugshots in an undisclosed location. (AFP Photo/ Ho / Syrian Democratic Forces)

Hundreds of foreign citizens fought alongside IS as it took control of large parts of Syria, raising concerns that they will bring terrorism with them if they ever return home.

The legal issues are daunting. Most nations, including the US, would be unwilling to take back detainees unless they have the evidence to prosecute them, and that often is difficult to collect in such battlefield captures.

While officials say that Guantanamo is not a viable option for the two British insurgents, questions remain about any potential use of the facility. President Donald Trump issued an executive order last month that keeps the prison open, prompting speculation that additional detainees could be brought in.

A number of allies, however, have openly criticized the use of Guantanamo, where detainees have been held for years without trial. And experts have argued that the facility serves as a recruiting tool for extremist groups.

Former Islamic State hostages and families of the groups victims are saying that Elsheikh and Kotey should be brought to trial.

French journalist Nicolas Henin, who was held by the men and their comrades for 10 months, said he wants justice, and that the men should be tried in Britain, not shipped to Guantanamo Bay, because revenge will just breed more violence.

What Im looking for is justice and Guantanamo is a denial of justice, he told The Associated Press.

Wheelbarger said the detainee problem is just one of the issues the defense ministers will discuss during the meeting.

The Islamic State group has been largely defeated in Iraq and is near destruction in Syria, where pockets of insurgents still operate along the Euphrates River, near the Iraq border and in other scattered locations. As a result, the coalition is shifting from an emphasis on combat operations to stabilization.

There are numerous questions about whats next, said Mattis.

He said that will include ensuring that explosive devices are found and eliminated, getting schools re-opened and making sure clean water is available.P rime Minister Theresa Mays recent trade mission to China has reignited a Beijing billionaires plan to build a new Crystal Palace on the SE19 site where the old one burned to the ground in 1936.

In 2013 Ni Zhaoxings ambitious 500 million proposal, backed by then mayor of London Boris Johnson, foundered on planning issues and concerns from local people about how much of Crystal Palace Park would be sacrificed to the project.

However, the ambitious idea may yet see the light of day, with hopes that a sensitive multi-use redevelopment, including new homes, will be acceptable to all parties.

The original palace was first built in Hyde Park to house the Great Exhibition of 1851 before being dismantled and rebuilt in south London.

Meanwhile, buoyed by the Overground link, the high-lying wider district is continuing its rise up the property pecking order, with a steadily gentrifying town centre and a spate of new housing schemes.

The steep slopes and dramatic views remind me of San Francisco, says local resident Natasha Ashton, 27, a communications executive working in central London.

Theres something special about being able to look over the city from a distance. The park is a fantastic amenity space and there are so many beautiful period houses.

From 627,500: flats including penthouses in the Vista Collection at Alto, Crystal Palace

Vista Collection comprises eight upper-floor flats of Alto, a scheme by developer Hill in an attractive woodland setting at the summit of Sylvan Hill. Its a neat piece of architecture, slotting into a sloping site and cleverly incorporating a car ramp to undercroft parking.Opinion Article

12 February 2018

The financial services sector has finally begun shedding light on the gender pay gap within the industry, with Citi becoming the first major Wall Street bank to disclose internal data  albeit somewhat selectively  on gender pay, following activist shareholder pressure.

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The Financial Times (FT) reported earlier this month that, in a message to staff, Citi's head of human resources put the gender pay gap in the US, UK and Germany at just one percent.

However, according to the FT's own research, while women account for up to 51 percent of Citi's global workforce, they make up only 42 percent of mid-level executives and 43 percent of senior executives.

But what of the hospitality sector?

The gender pay gap prevails across all countries and industries, including our own. In a study of executive compensation, my co-authors and I found that women CEOs in hospitality tend to receive bonuses that are three percent lower than those of their male counterparts. Other topics such as sexual harassment at the workplace, which is a real concern, have never emerged because it is taboo to discuss such topics openly.

While noticeable advances have been made regarding women in the workplace, the industry has not be immune to the slow progress of women into senior positions. Women may have achieved virtual parity with men at the start of their careers, but within just five to six years they start to lag behind their male counterparts.

Extensive evidence from research shows that challenges faced by women seeking to reach the C-suite include biased perceptions about their competences and their roles as a manager and/or leader.

The old 'think manager, think male' mindset still prevails in organizations and women continue facing the double bind: behave assertively and others might not like you, yet behave nicely and others might perceive you as lacking the abilities to lead.

We also know from research that, in terms of social capital, women receive less support  critical for career advancement  from career sponsors and their informal networks.

Finally, there are the challenges related to managing the work-family life balance as both can be highly demanding. Thus, women exit the labor market although there is a growing tendency to reduce the number of working hours, particularly during childrearing years.

Interestingly, my colleagues and I found in our research that hotel performance volatility is actually reduced when women in top management roles are allowed to work part-time.

As we found in our research, such flexible work arrangements by family-supportive organizations can reduce staff turnover, while increasing job performance.

Gender diversity is positively associated with the performance of financial firms as well as for society in general as female economic activity is positively related to the human development index (measured by life expectancy, education, and GDP per capita).

It wasn't that long ago  back in 2013 when I joined I joined EHL as a member of faculty  that no woman was part of the management team or the EHL group. In an exhibition of black and white photos at the school, well-groomed men only featured in the images of EHL alumni who had reached the C-suite.

I asked myself back then: where were all the women? Weren't nearly 60 percent of our students female? Why then had they failed to reach the top positions in hospitality?

So what more can be done?

With the aim of becoming a frontrunner with regard to women in leadership positions in hospitality, EHL will launch the Women in Leadership Network this spring. The aim is to raise awareness, disseminate knowledge, debate 'off-limits' topics, exchange experiences, share best practices, and initiate innovative women-related projects by bringing together students, academics, industry experts, and local political players who are keen to have a positive impact on society at large.Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a franchise agreement for the 144-key Hyatt Place Aguascalientes with affiliates of Promotora Comercial Abadan, S.A. de C.V.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a franchise agreement for the 144-key Hyatt Place Aguascalientes with affiliates of Promotora Comercial Abadan, S.A. de C.V. The hotel will be managed by Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe, one of the most respected hospitality companies in the Mexican hotel industry. Upon its expected opening in 2019, Hyatt Place Aguascalientes will be Mexico's sixth Hyatt Place hotel.

"It is our great pleasure to expand the Hyatt Place brand into Aguascalientes, the most populous city in the state bearing the same name and one of the fastest growing destinations in Mexico," said Luciano Julio, regional director of operations in Latin America, Hyatt Place and Hyatt House. "This opening will mark the brand's sixth hotel in Mexico and strengthens Hyatt's strategy to grow its brands in key locations within the country, such as the 'golden economic triangle', to increase preference among guests."

Hyatt Place hotels offer casual hospitality and purposeful service in a smartly designed, high-tech and contemporary environment. Hyatt Place Aguascalientes will be located in the southern area of the city in close proximity to industrial parks, automotive manufacturing plants and downtown Aguascalientes, where all municipal and central government offices are located. Aguascalientes serves as an industrial and manufacturing hub with an extensive network of modern highways, multiple free trade zones, the two largest railway centers in Mexico, and Lic. Jesus Teran Peredo International Airport.

"We are very excited to add a Hyatt Place hotel to our real estate portfolio," said Abadan's General Director Felipe Colomo. "We are honored to collaborate with Hyatt on this project, a project that confirms that Mexico continues to be an attractive market to grow and invest."

"This announcement is an important milestone for Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe as it will be the first Hyatt that we will be managing. We look forward to growing together with Hyatt in Mexico. We are also excited, as both the city of Aguascalientes and Hyatt Place fit our strategy for operating third party hotels in Mexico," said Francisco Zinser Cieslik, CEO of Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe.

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 2021 Hotel News Resource'Bleisure' travelers, those who sneak in some leisure while travelling primarily for business, are probably not a new phenomenon. But, that doesnt mean they arent increasingly attractive to travel marketers.

'Bleisure' travelers, those who sneak in some leisure while travelling primarily for business, are probably not a new phenomenon. But, that doesnt mean they arent increasingly attractive to travel marketers.

According to a survey from Bridgestreet Global Hospitality, 83% of respondents say they use time on business trips to explore the city theyre visiting. Sojerns latest Path to Purchase report examines eight travel profiles, and provides insightful marketing takeaways. Lets take a look at bleisure traveler Michael to see how travel brands can reach him in the best way.

Heres what a Bleisure path to purchase might look like

Michael is frequent traveler based in Dallas, Texas, and often travels to Singapore for business. He enjoys sporting events and is an avid travel researcher. Lets look at his path to purchase below:

Use data to target precise dates

Major regional hubs like Singapore, London, and New York provide many low-cost flight options to nearby destinations. Our Destination Report: A Focus on the United Kingdom and France shows that people who visit London are likely to tag on a trip to Paris and vice versa. So, if youre within a couple hours flight of these cities, its worth advertising to people traveling there.

For example, on December 25, while Michael is in Singapore, he books a long weekend trip to Kuala Lumpur. With Sojerns access to real-time search and booking data, we can help travel brands target travelers when they are in-destination, for more targeted messaging.

Incentivize business travelers to stick around

Michael, like many travelers, worries about missing out on the best dealhence conducting multiple hotel searches before and even after he books. This is a great opportunity to upsell a few extra nights. Hotels that typically cater to business travelers during the week can offer a discount to promote them to stay over the weekend. Dynamic Creative is one way to promote cheaper weekend options, prompting the Michaels of the world to book and extend their stay in-destination.

Build brand loyalty across destinations

Theres a luxury hotel brand in particular that made a big impression on Michael while he searches. So much so, he returns to search it once back home. Then when hes back in Singapore, his leisure planning returns. He looks specifically to head to Kuala Lumpur, a short journey away from Singapore. It is that luxury hotel brand that continues to be the focus of his travel planning. Ultimately, after a month of searching, he converts with them.

Michael is clearly interested in this particularly hotel chain. Stay top of mind by highlighting other properties that Michael may be interested in staying at. Video is a great way to show of a propertys particular offerings. This then, gives Michael an opportunity to dream of his next Bleisure adventure.

Want even more marketing takeaways on different paths to purchase? Check out our entire report now!

About Ashley

Ashley is Sojern's Marketing Manager, EMEA & APAC and works in the London office. Originally from Canada, she's been living in London for over four years, and is actively trying to fill all the pages in her passport. She has never met a cheese she didn't like.

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 2021 Hotel News ResourceRosewood Phnom Penh opens today, nestled in the iconic 39-story Vattanac Capital Tower prominently located in the central cultural and business district along Preah Monivong Boulevard. At 188 meters high, atop the tallest building in the Cambodian capital, the hotel boasts breathtaking 360views of the city.

Rosewood Phnom Penh opens today, nestled in the iconic 39-story Vattanac Capital Tower prominently located in the central cultural and business district along Preah Monivong Boulevard. At 188 meters high, atop the tallest building in the Cambodian capital, the hotel boasts breathtaking 360views of the city and offers leisure and business travelers to the city a stately vantage point to witness the revival of what is already considered one of the most charming capitals in Southeast Asia. Specially created introductory experiences offer varied ways for guests to experience the dynamism of Phnom Penh.

"With its rich history and dynamic future, 'The Pearl of Asia' is an ideal place to expand the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts brand and this debut represents an important milestone in our global growth," says Sonia Cheng, chief executive officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. "With the ever-increasing desire for authentic travel experiences amongst affluent explorers, Rosewood Phnom Penh satisfies this urge while also giving us the opportunity to raise our flag in one of Asia's most fascinating cities."

"Phnom Penh fuses the majesty of the past with the pulse of the present and the promise of the future," says hotel Managing Director Daniel Grau. "At Rosewood Phnom Penh, we blend traditional refinement with contemporary sophistication to express Rosewood's A Sense of Place philosophy."

Designed by Melbourne's BAR Studio, with two restaurants created by Tokyo-based Bond Design Studio, the interior of the ultra-luxury hotel aims to capture the essence of the country with a blend of Khmer architectural aspects, the country's French colonial heritage and Cambodian craft techniques, all embraced by a subtle classic-meets-contemporary style.

For travelers experiencing the vibe of Phnom Penh, Rosewood Phnom Penh is the ideal base to become immersed into the vigor of the city. The iconic landmarks of The Royal Palace, National Museum, Central Market, Wat Phnom, the art street, riverside and the central business district are all conveniently located nearby.

Advertisement



The hotel's residential-style guestrooms are among the largest in Phnom Penh, with a total of 175 rooms including 37 suites. Their design includes large, round, window-facing tables that double as dining or work spaces, inviting guests to soak in vistas of the city skyline and tranquil Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers. Guestrooms at Rosewood Phnom Penh start from a spacious 50-square-meter Executive Room to the signature Norodom House at 225 square meters.

Gastronomes will be spoilt for choice with four dining venues, with innovative and cutting- edge fare spanning Asian, Japanese and European cuisines. The warm Brasserie Louis situated on level 35 instantly presents a panoramic vista of the city skyline and Mekong River from floor-to-ceiling, wrap-around windows, and features French classic comfort foods and regional Cambodian favorites in a casual yet elegant environment. The Living Room is residential-like retreat with a relaxed vibe and cozy corners -- a refreshing spot for breakfast, snacks during the day or cocktails and appetizers as day turns to dusk and evening. Iza is a Japanese izakaya-style restaurant that invites guests to linger, sample course after course, and socialize over a lively meal with robata-yaki and irori charcoal grill open kitchen with counter seating as the main feature. The highlight of the dining journey is Sora  translated as "sky" from Japanese  the highest bar in Phnom Penh, and uniquely perched on a cantilevered terrace on level 37 with unobstructed views of the Cambodian capital as its lofty spectacle.

Guests can maintain their healthy regime by taking advantage of the fitness center, which features an array of cardiovascular, strengthening and weight training equipment.

Tailored packages welcome travelers and staycationers to the capital of the "Kingdom of Wonder," with opening offers designed to introduce both the exotic capital and the ultra-luxury hotel.

"Whatever the passion  local culture, dining, adventure or simply strolling the city and taking it all in  our team will ensure it presents the best of Phnom Penh with a variety of local insights, suggested itineraries and exclusive reservations," says Mr. Grau.

Introductory offers include:

"A Taste of the Kingdom"  This package includes "A Sense of Place" welcome amenities, breakfast for two at Brasserie Louis, 25 percent savings in any dining venue excluding alcohol, high-speed Internet, one-way airport transfer by Rosewood Phnom Penh limousine and complimentary 24-hour late checkout upon availability. A Taste of the Kingdom starts from USD260 per room per night excluding tax and service charge.

"Mekong Indulgence"  This package presents an urban getaway high above the bustle of the city, where a couple or friends can luxuriate in an elegant Rosewood Suite, with daily breakfast. During the stay of one or more consecutive nights, guests can indulge in a 90-minute massage treatment for each person, enjoy a dinner in Brasserie Louis and receive a one-time replenishment of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages in the personal bar. Mekong Indulgence also includes high-speed Internet, personal butler service, round-trip airport transfer by Rosewood Phnom Penh limousine and complimentary 24-hour late checkout upon availability. The package starts from USD1,200 per room per night excluding tax and service charge.

The introductory offers are valid until July 31, 2018.

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 2021 Hotel News ResourceThere are many small changes that hotel companies can implement that can make a big difference in terms of being more sustainable. HSMAIs Rising Sales Leader Council (RSLC) discussed how their hotels are promoting sustainability on a recent call. Here are a few of their best ideas for how hotels can be more sustainable - and why its important.While he's known for making waves on the business side of things in the music industry as president of Coke Boys, running the conglomerate alongside older brother French Montana, Zack has been steadily making an effort to get his stock up from inside the booth and now returns to deliver on his latest "20 Below" single.

He dropped off his Here's Half effort in 2016, and the Moroccan-bred artist has since gone on to stack up a catalog that includes appearances from the likes of Belly, French Montana, the late Chinx, Jeremih, and Post Malone among others. His latest "20 Below" is yet another lofty excursion as he details an enviable lifestyle with plenty of jewels to match. Zack has been cooking up a few gems in the studio, and the Brandon Bangerz-produced "20 Below" arrives as just the tip of the iceberg of releases that await us.

Quotable Lyrics:

Count a milli with my eyes closed

Tried to do me like Diallo

Close ones always plot first

Tryna leave a nigga John DoeThe "Unforgettable" rapper, French Montana, is looking to produce a line of products on the same premise of his hit track with Swae Lee. New reports from TMZ say that French is seeking to trademark his name for commerce in the beauty and health markets.

French wants to bank on his name and his status with fragrances, lotions, shampoos, and non-medicated toiletries. The publication reports that he's already trademarked his name for products such as watches, backpacks, beach towels, pillowcases and more. Only time will tell when fans can really get their hands on the merchandise French is working on.

In other news surrounding the rapper, French was recently dubbed the Global Citizen Ambassador to Morocco after his philanthropic efforts. He will continue to donate funds for new computers, books and more as a way to help the education system. TMZ caught up with French before he was named the new ambassador, where he detailed the idea behind his moves.

"The whole idea of this is to spark the mind of the world leaders, you know? To help and do something on a bigger scale," he said. "I just feel like all the mothers and children should have the right care. It should never be a privilege, it should be a right."French Montana sat down with Revolt TV over Grammy weekend to share his opinions regarding the award show snubbing his hit single "Unforgettable" for the ceremony, his current single "Famous" and a reaction to the arrest of the people responsible for murdering his close friend and Coke Boys Records label-mate, Chinx.

French explains that he is happy for Chinx's family that they now have closure regarding his 2015 death. Chinx was fatally shot in 2015 in his hometown of Queens, New York. The years following his death have been filled with questions regarding his murder and French has honoured the late rapper in his music ever since. French states that for Chinx's mother, wife and family to know what happened to their loved one after years of information being up in the air is what is most important about the new information.

In the interview, the Moroccan New Yorker also touches on the amazing success of his 2017 single "Unforgettable" with Swae Lee, and his surprise that it did not receive any Grammy nominations. The 5-time platinum song in the States was a song of the summer and the sole radio single off of Jungle Rules.Attendees at the annual Peace Walk & Peace Talk in Miami, held in honor of the late Trayvon Martin, were met with a pleasant surprise when mogul and social activist Jay-Z popped up to deliver a few remarks on Martin's legacy.

It was at the Betty T. Ferguson Amphitheater that Jay stood by the side of Trayvon Martin's mother Sybrina Fulton and father Tracy Martin to deliver a speech before a crowd of hundreds.

"We want to make sure that we stand and support and never forget that Trayvon serves as a beacon of light to the people out here so you guys will never have to go through the pain and hurt that these guys went through," Hov said.

He went on to add that "[Trayvon's] name will sit alongside the greats who lost their lives to push our culture forward  the Martin Luther Kings, the Gandhis. Thats the intention that we set, that his name serves as a beacon of light and hope to push us in a better direction, so thank you guys for your support. Thank you for being here."

It was back in 2013 that the unarmed 17-year old Martin was gunned down by George Zimmerman in Sanford, Florida. Zimmerman would avoid a conviction on the murder on the basis of Florida's Stand Your Ground Law. This year would have marked Martin's 23rd birthday.

It means a lot to the community when you see people like Jay-Z who come out to support your cause, Brenda Martin Providence, a friend of Trayvon Martin's mother, told the Miami Herald of Jay-Z's appearance. With everything going on, we all need to support the cause because our youth are dying in the streets. A lot of mothers are missing their children. For me, personally, my son will be 40 in a couple of days and I have two grandsons. We all need to come out and show our support and walk for the community.Sneaker heads and casual fans alike have come to associate Kanye West with his signature "Red October" kicks, which were immortalized in his lyrical canon through "Hold My Liquor" and more. And while the brilliant Mr. West is currently nursing some ties to Adidas, that doesn't mean he's finished with their counterpart, the ubiquitous Nike. According to a report from TMZ, Kanye West is looking to bring his iconic shoe back into the fold; the prolific recluse has taken a foray down from the Wyoming Mountainside to attempt locking down an exclusive "Red October" trademark.

In case you're unaware, Kanye originally released the sneaker back in 2014, around the time he embarked on his now-legendary Yeezus tour. The shoe became something of a holy grail for collectors and hypebeasts worldwide, and the camp-out lines rivaled those of Star Wars The Phantom Menace. Suffice it to say, many feel as if the "Red October" line was Kanye's tour de force, and it's likely that Yeezy wants to capitalize on their revered status.

If the trademark does get approved, it would open the door for all manner of "Red October" related paraphernalia, including a wide variety of clothing and lingerie items. Know Kanye, the sky is the limit, and it wouldn't be surprising to see some outside-the-box uses of the brand. Apparently, Yeezy's original attempt to trademark fell through after the rapper was negligent on his paper-work duties. Still, it's no wonder he had a change of heart, as the "Red Octobers" are allegedly retailing for thousands.Supreme just debuted its Spring/Summer 2018 lookbook, and it comes chock-full with clothing reminiscent of the ever-ubiquitous 90s-mania that has had a stronghold over contemporary culture for sometime. The collection offers a veritable selection of pieces that are rendered in bold colours, graphics, prints, and shapes.

There is a skull pile graphic that is emblazoned on bombers, while the brand incorporates legendary graffiti artist Lee Quinones and his "The Lion's Den" artwork all over a trucker jacket and a pair of matching shorts. The 90s also manifested itself in the appearance of panelled leather jackets, military camouflage prints and workwear. Aside from the nod to Lee Quinones, the outing marks an official collaboration between the brand and the late 80s film Hellraiser, decorating a long-jacket with an allover print containing iconography from the cult classic.

The clothing is set to go on sale February 15 at the brand's NY, LA and European stores, with a digital release on the 22nd.

Peep some images from the collection, and head over to their website to view the offering in its entirety.

Image via Supreme

Image via Supreme

Image via Supreme

Image via Supreme

Image via SupremeEach one of the three singles that dropped from Black Panther: The Album before it dropped last Friday made it into our top ten, and not only that, the top five. The album's dominated the year so much that we haven't had a 2018 edition of Top Tracks without a song from it yet. Kendrick Lamar and Travis Scott's Cardo-produced collab from the album was only added on in the early hours of Saturday morning, but it quickly made its way up to the top of our list.

Fittingly, Kendrick Lamar leads all artists with appearances in the top ten this week, with two. New tracks barely missing out on spots this week include Wiz Khalifa and Sosamann's "Best Life" (#11), Schoolboy Q, 2 Chainz, Kendrick Lamar, and Saudi's "X" (#12), 2 Chainz, YG, and Offset's "PROUD" (#13), and Kodak Black's "Erykah Badu" (#15).

10. Rich The Kid - Plug Walk

Rich The Kid's received some increased attention since the arrival of his Kendrick Lamar-assisted single, "New Freezer," and last week he parlayed that into a Zane Lowe premiere of his follow-up, "Plug Walk." This one's got an 86% user approval rating and a #10 debut.

9. King Combs Feat. Chris Brown - Love You Better

Schoolly D's "P.S.K. (What Does it Mean?)" is famous for being the first true gangster rap cut (at least according to the man often credited with founding the genre, Ice T), but oddly enough Diddy's son decided to sample it on a love song. The Breezy-assisted single debuts at #9.

8. Young Scooter Feat. Young Thug & Future - Trippple Cross

Last year saw Future and Young Thug exponentially increasing their number of collaborations, first with BTG's "Relationship," then with Super Slimey, and less than two months into 2018, they've added another to their record. The Young Scooter-helmed "Trippple Cross" debuts at #8.

7. Kendrick Lamar & The Weeknd - Pray For Me

Last week's #1 was the third and final pre-release Black Panther: The Album single, and it holds on in the top ten for a second week. "Pray For Me," the second Kendrick/Abel Tesfaye collab since "Sidewalks," is down six places from #1 to #7 in its second week out.

6. Tory Lanez - March 2nd

Tory Lanez has been teasing his follow-up to 2016's I Told You since last October, and after announcing the release date back in January, he further ramped up anticipation by releasing a new track bearing the upcoming release's arrival date as its title. "March 2nd" debuts at #6.

5. Tay-K - After You

Is this Tay-K's next hit? After blowing up with his song "The Race" last year, 17-year-old rapper and accused murderer Tay-K has racked up over two million plays on Soundcloud in a week with his latest track, "After You." On our site, it debuts at #5.

4. Tee Grizzley Feat. Meek Mill - First Day Out (Remix)

Tee Grizzley already got a chance to collaborate with one of his favorite rappers, Meek Mill, on last summer's "Beef," and although Meek's currently locked up for some bullshit, they've managed to come though with a second collab. This remix of Grizzley's breakout hit debuts at #4.

3. BlocBoy JB Feat. Drake - Look Alive

Drake's Memphis connection has always been a little more concrete than his Houston one, but it's still a little surprising to hear him link up with buzzing native BlocBoy JB. Their collab "Look Alive" debuts at #3.

2. Rae Sremmurd - T'd Up

Just after the Super Bowl last week, Rae Sremmurd premiered their new single "T'd Up," which will appear on upcoming triple album Sremmlife 3. This track debuts at #2.

1. Kendrick Lamar & Travis Scott - Big Shot

The last (and only previous) time Kendrick and Travis linked up, it was for "Goosebumps," which turned out to be quite a hit. Although "Big Shot" dropped five days after its closest competitor, "T'd Up," it finishes #1 in its first week out.Will Smith is perhaps better known nowadays as the gilded father of two aspirational children. This is the untold story of reaping his hard earned rewards, of his discovering his true sexual self, his confused mid life crisis, and an innumerable list of gags which we are bound to enjoy, because yes, Will hasn't completely hung 'em out to dry.

This original video places Will on vacation in the Cayman Islands, where he is assisting a steelpan ensemble as they perform Richie Valens' late 50's classic "la bamba". The main issue here lies in the fact that Will Smith is taking too much attention away from the more qualified musicians, and secondly, he doesn't know a damn word in the song beyond the chorus. Although I do believe Will to be in on the joke well beforehand, that didn't stop Instagram users from taking aim.

The general public certainly had a field day with his botched delivery. Never the less, Will the perfectionist had to clap back with a better rehearsed version of "La Bamba" Here he is taking a second out of his day to prove the doubters wrong.The Icelandic musician, who was best known for his scores for the films 'Arrival', 'Prisoners' and 'The Theory of Everything', has died at the relatively young age of 48.

Johannsson was found dead in his Berlin apartment on 9 February. The cause of death is still unknown.



Born and raised in Reykjavik, Johann Johannsson packed eight solo albums and ten film soundtracks into his short career.

He also composed soundtracks for 'Sicario', 'The Miners' Hymns' and 'I Am Here'.

He scored music for 'Blade Runner 2049' but it was "rejected" and the film studio turned to a score by Hans Zimmer and Benjamin Wallfisch.

Back in December, he announced on his website that he was going to score Panos Cosmatos Mandy starring Nicolas Cage.

Former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama looked vital and happy Monday as they unveiled two of the most anticipated commissions in years by the Smithsonian Institution's National Portrait Gallery.

The moment wasn't just significant because their African-American faces would finally hang among all the portraits of powerful whites, painted by white men, in the galleries. The painters chosen by the Obamas to create their portraits are the first African-American artists to be represented there as well. And each has a distinctive style, focusing on black identity through different lenses.

EXHIBITION: 'The Beauty of the Black Woman' celebrates women of all shades via strong, thoughtful portraits

Kehinde Wiley, the superstar who painted Barack Obama's portrait, places his subjects in poses borrowed from art history, amid baroque backgrounds that often call to mind floral wallpaper or tapestries. Amy Sherald, Michelle Obama's bold choice, uses a trademark grayscale skin tone -- to suggest that skin is irrelevant -- and typically places her figures against monochromatic backgrounds.

While it's a wild departure from other portraits in the "America's Presidents" exhibition, Obama's portrait is exactly what fans of Wiley's would expect. The former president is seated in a traditional-looking chair that floats in front of a dense screen of greenery. The symbolic flowers sprinkled among the leaves fittingly represent places significant to Obama's personal history - Chicago, where he built his career and family; Hawaii, where he grew up; and Kenya, where his father was born. The figure's slightly furrowed brow and pursed lips capture the wonky, intense side of the former president. His skin glistens, as if he's sweating. He could be in a hothouse.

Meanwhile, Sherald seems to have placed Michelle Obama in a deep freeze, against a cool blue background. The fashion world weighed in quickly on what the former first lady is wearing: A cool gown from the Spring 2017 collection of the American label Milly (Michelle Smith), whose fabric was inspired by Piet Mondrian's modern art and Gees Bend quilt graphics. That was an appropriate decision. But it looks like Sherald was more interested in the dress than in the face above it.

Her Michelle Obama looks pensive, or maybe a bit defiant; and maybe younger than the real one, with slightly more generic features. At least she is posed with a hand under her chin, like August Rodin's "The Thinker."

During her remarks, everything Sherald said about her subject rang true: "The act of Michelle Obama being her authentic self became a profound statement that engaged all of us. What you represent to all of us is an ideal: A human being with integrity, intellect, confidence and compassion."

Sherald also suggested that once her paintings are done, they take on a different life. "I see something bigger, more symbolic, an archetype. I paint things I want to see," she said. "I paint as a way of looking for myself in the world." In other words, this is a fantasy vision; perhaps even an acknowledgement that all paintings are fantasies.

If they were disappointed in any way, the Obamas didn't show it.

Michelle Obama said she was "honored, humbled and proud" to be the first person in her family to sit for a portrait. Barack Obama joked about asking Wiley to make his ears smaller and his hair less gray.

"It's hard to judge something that is a portrait of you, but I am in awe of Kehinde's gifts," he said.

His portrait has been added to the 50-year old exhibition "American Presidents." Michelle Obama's is on temporary view, in the "Recent Acquisitions" corridor, until November.

Like them or not, the new portraits should draw new audiences into the galleries and provide a more interesting -- and perhaps more meaningful -- viewing experience.A drive-by shooting was reported Sunday on Cullen Boulevard in Sunnyside, according to Houston police. One man was taken to the hospital.

A caller reported the shooting just before 6:45 p.m., police said, near the intersection of Cullen and Mayflower in south Houston. When police arrived, they found one man who had been shot near a car wash in the 7400 block of Cullen.Saturday's heavy rain caused wastewater spills on the northern side of downtown Houston, according to a release from the city of Houston.

City-supplied water is safe to drink, the announcement says -- but people should avoid touching water or soil in the two affected areas because it could be contaminated.A woman was killed in a four-vehicle wreck late Sunday after running a red light in the Clear Lake area, Houston police said.

Just before 10 p.m. Sunday, the woman was speeding along Old Galveston Road in a white Hyundai Santa Fe when she ran the light at the intersection of El Dorado.WASHINGTON - The Trump administration wants to turn the International Space Station into a kind of orbiting real estate venture run not by the government, but by private industry.

The White House plans to stop funding for the station after 2024, ending direct federal support of the orbiting laboratory. But it does not intend to abandon the orbiting laboratory altogether, and is working on a transition plan that could turn the station over to the private sector, according to an internal NASA document obtained by The Washington Post.

"The decision to end direct federal support for the ISS in 2025 does not imply that the platform itself will be deorbited at that time - it is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform," the document states. "NASA will expand international and commercial partnerships over the next seven years in order to ensure continued human access to and presence in low Earth orbit."

Now Playing: According to the Washington Post, the White House reportedly has unveiled plans to cut off the station's funding by 2024. Video: Buzz 60

In its budget request to be released Monday, the administration would request $150 million in fiscal year 2019, with more in additional years, "to enable the development and maturation of commercial entities and capabilities which will ensure that commercial successors to the ISS-potentially including elements of the ISS-are operational when they are needed."

The plan to privatize the station is likely to run into a wall of opposition, especially since the United States has spent nearly $100 billion to build and operate it. Last week, Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, said he hoped recent reports of NASA's decision to end funding of the station "prove as unfounded as Bigfoot." He said the decision was the result of "numbskulls" at the Office of Management and Budget.

"As a fiscal conservative, you know one of the dumbest things you can to is cancel programs after billions in investment when there is still serious usable life ahead," he said.

When asked about the possibility of a public-partnership, he said, "I think all of us are open to reasonable proposals that are cost effective and that are utilizing the investments we made in a way that maximize their effectiveness."

ALSO READ: California science fair project tying race, IQ sparks outcry

NASA is currently studying whether the life of the station could be extended to 2028, or beyond, and he said any decision should hinge on that report.

But some questioned who would want to take over the station.

"The ISS is built for science and human exploration, it's not built for profit seeking," said Andrew Rush, the chief executive of Made In Space, a company that uses 3-D printing to manufacture objects on the space station.

Frank Slazer, the vice president of space systems for the Aerospace Industries Association, said the plan also could prove sticky with the station's international partners.

"It will be very hard to turn ISS into a truly commercial outpost because of the international agreements that the United States is involved in," he said. "It's inherently always going to be an international construct that requires U.S. government involvement and multi-national cooperation."

Boeing currently operates the station for NASA, which costs $3 to $4 billion annually. Last month, as reports circulated about NASA pulling the plug on the station, Mark Mulqueen, Boeing's space station program manager, said "walking away from the International Space Station now would be a mistake, threatening American leadership and hurting the commercial market as well as the scientific community."

The internal NASA document has scant details over how the privatization of the station would work. As it prepares a transition plan, the White House said it "will request market analysis and business plans from the commercial sector and solicit plans from commercial industry."

ALSO READ: Invasive 20-pound rodents increasingly burrowing into California

The transition of the station would mark another bold step for NASA in turning over access to what's known as low Earth orbit to the private sector so that the space agency could focus its resources on exploring deep space. Under President George W. Bush, NASA took the first steps to outsource cargo supply flights to the station to SpaceX and Orbital ATK. President Barack Obama extended that model to hire Boeing and SpaceX to fly astronauts there.

Now, the Trump administration wants to push that public-private partnership even further to encourage "the emergence of an environment in (low-Earth orbit) where NASA is one of many customers of a non-governmental human space flight managed and operated enterprise, while providing a smooth and uninterrupted transition," the document said.

It didn't immediately propose what private enterprise might do with the station or which companies might take it over.Would Houston-based businessman Andrew White be a good governor?

This is a question that none of us has really considered since White announced his bid for the Democratic nomination back in December. It's one that the candidate himself, for that matter, hasn't directly engaged. His pitch to primary voters, understandably enough, has centered on his potential crossover appeal.

In a tweet pinned to the top of his timeline, for example, White describes himself as "a common sense Democrat with the best chance of beating Greg Abbott."

"People in the Democratic Party are tired of moral victories," White told me this week over lunch at Frank's Americana, after showing me how to use what I would describe as an unnecessarily complicated salt shaker.

After 24 years in the political wilderness, he continued, Texas Democrats would like to put a win on the board.

At this point, thanks to the ongoing implosion of the Texas GOP, some Republicans are rooting for Democrats, too.

Grieder: Texas Republicans can't defend decision to censure Joe Straus

"In a normal election we'd be arguing about, like, how to build our roads, or what approach to school would be better - centralized or decentralized?" White said.

"Wouldn't that be refreshing?" he added drily.

"Instead, it's about taking money out of education versus putting it in. Just real basic, fundamental differences."

For many voters, the question at hand isn't whether this year's Democratic statewide candidates would do well, if they won. It's whether they would be as hapless, or feckless, as the incumbents they're challenging.

Grieder: Trump's assaults on rule of law are falling short

That might be irrelevant in the gubernatorial race. The Democratic nominee will be an underdog. Barring some unforeseen twist of circumstance, he or she will be squaring off against incumbent Abbott, who began the year with a 59 percent approval rating and a $43 million war chest.

And there's no guarantee that White will even be the nominee.

Although he's never run for office before, he's not completely new to politics. He is a son of former Gov. Mark White, who passed away last August shortly before Hurricane Harvey. So although nine candidates are running for the Democratic nomination, White is seen as one of the most credible contenders.

Several observers, after kicking the tires on all the options, have come out in White's favor; he has been endorsed by the Houston Chronicle, the Dallas Morning News, and the Houston GLBT Political Caucus.

But others, including the Texas AFL-CIO, have endorsed Lupe Valdez, the longtime Dallas County sheriff. And although the Texas "left" is historically right of center, by national standards, we are talking about a Democratic primary in 2018.

Valdez is a lesbian Latina whose parents were migrant workers. White is a straight white guy whose wealth is such that he recently loaned his campaign $1 million, and who has acknowledged having "deeply pro-life" personal beliefs, among other things.

So although any of the Democrats running for governor would be the underdog in the general election, White is arguably the underdog in the primary, as well. Plus, it's difficult to tell what will happen in the primary, given the number of ferocious contests on both sides of the aisle. Driving around West University, for example, you'll see signs for White. But you'll also see signs for Republican state Rep. Sarah Davis, perhaps even in the same yard.

But the hypothetical question - would White be a good governor? - is worth considering. Texans who follow politics have plenty to be demoralized about these days. Some are planning to vote tactically, in the Republican primary, on the premise that the party's hold on power is so secure that the best thing to do is boost its moderate wing.

Grieder: 'Normal' Republicans deserve a voice

Still, it's not theoretically impossible for Texas to have a good governor. We did, in fact, until quite recently.

I often argued, while Rick Perry was governor, that he was underrated. Three years into his successor's first term, Texans can probably see what I mean.

Perry wasn't a policy wonk. Critics often derided him as an intellectual lightweight - "Governor Good Hair." Nor was he above politics; in fact, he did his share of pandering. But in moments of crisis, Perry rose to the occasion. Contrast his stalwart response to Hurricane Katrina, for example, to the one we've now seen from Abbott, during and after Harvey.

Ideally, a governor would listen to experts and value their expertise. But ultimately, we don't need the head of the executive branch to be an egghead. We need the governor to act with courage and clarity.

And White seems capable of doing so, I think. The evidence is that he's running, despite the long odds against him and the risk of being targeted by a powerful incumbent with a tendency for retaliation.That's not White's only attribute as a candidate. My colleagues on the Chronicle's editorial board were particularly impressed by his answers to their questions about how the state should deal with flooding. And as White says, he is the Democrat who would stand the best chance against Abbott, should he make it to the general election.

But White's willingness to take the risks involved in running for office may be his best credential. Last August, he lost his father. Less than three weeks later, Hurricane Harvey made landfall. He had never been interested in running for office, he told me, but these events made him reflective. And he responded the way a governor should - by trying to do the right thing.Two juveniles are in custody after a short police chase near Baybrook Mall.

The pursuit started around 11:40 a.m., when Houston police officers tried stopping a stolen BMW in the 600 block of Baybrook Mall Drive.

The driver sped off, ultimately crashing into four parked cars before the two kids bailed out in the 200 block of El Dorado. They were both taken into custody.

Authorities did not identify them or give their ages. It's not clear what charges they might face.The Harris County man who helped sadistic serial killer Dean Corll lure more than two dozen young boys to their torture and death was yet again denied parole.

Following a parole board decision issued last week, David Owen Brooks will stay behind bars for at least another decade - the longest parole set-off possible under Texas law.

"It's a good decision," said James Dreymala, the father of Corll's final victim.

Brooks, now 62, has gone before the board more than 20 times in the four decades since the Houston Mass Murders terrorized the Bayou City in the early 1970s.

"On behalf of all the victims and surviving family members, we are not only appreciative of the parole denial but more importantly granting our request for the maximum 10-year set-off," said City of Houston victim advocate Andy Kahan.

Kahan attended the hearing last month in Angleton, along with the parents of Stanton Dreymala, who's believed to be Corll's last victim.

Though Brooks has been up for parole every few years since he first became eligible in 1979, a 2015 law increased the maximum time allowed between parole considerations. While he could have been up for parole again in three years under the old law, he's now not eligible to be considered for release until 2028.

Convicted killers like Brooks and co-defendant Elmer Wayne Henley were a key reason advocates lobbied for the legislation that allowed for longer set-offs, according to Kahan.

"This gives everyone much more time between parole reviews and no one will have to think about parole hearings for at least 8 years until the next review of Henley," he said.

The gruesome killings first came to light in 1973, five days after little Stanton vanished.

It was on Aug. 8 that Henley, a 17-year-old high school dropout, called police to say he'd shot Corll, the 33-year-old electric company worker who'd masterminded the slayings.

Henley said he had killed Corll after the older man threatened to rape and kill him and two other teens during a party at a bungalow.

But after the initial confession, another story emerged; Henley told police he could lead them to bodies. Lots of bodies.

Inside stall No. 11 at Southwest Boat Storage, authorities discovered the remains of 17 slain and tortured boys buried under the dirt floor, covered in plastic and a layer of lime.

Inside the bungalow, detectives found a chilling collection of torture devices, including a toolbox stuffed sexual devices and a plywood board with holes cut out for handcuffs and restraints

Eventually Henley admitted that he'd helped lure the unsuspecting victims, along with the help of then-18-year-old David Owen Brooks.

In exchange, the serial killer had paid the pair $10 to $200 per child. In some cases, Brooks and Henley had helped with the torture and killing.

By the end of the week police probed other sites at High Island and Lake Sam Rayburn and found at least 28 victims.

"This was one of the most notorious serial killings in this country's history," Kahan said. "The term 'serial killer' wasn't even invented yet, it wasn't even known to criminologists. Hence it was always called the Houston Mass Murders."AUSTIN -- Former President Barack Obama and members of his administration are ready to take another shot at chipping away at Republican domination in Texas.

A new group headed by former Attorney General Eric Holder and with the public backing of Obama is targeting Texas among 11 states in which they are determined to change the redistricting process to assure more competitive state House and Senate races in the future.

"In 2011, Republicans created gerrymandered districts that locked themselves into power and shut out voters from the electoral process," Holder said in announcing the National Democratic Redistricting Committee's electoral targets earlier this week.

"By focusing on these state and local races, we can ensure Democrats who will fight for fairness have a seat at the table when new maps are drawn in 2021," he added.

And Harris County will be a big part of the plan. State Democrats have already highlighted more than 20 seats in the Texas House that Hillary Clinton either won over Donald Trump in 2016 or lost narrowly -- a list the new NDRC group is well versed in, said Kelly Ward, executive director of the group.

Ward said her group hasn't made specific targets yet, but said after the primaries in March they will begin to hone in on more specific targets.

That list will almost certainly include conversations about five key Houston area districts.

In state District 134, held by State Rep. Sarah Davis and State District 138 held by Rep. Dwayne Bohac, Clinton outpointed Trump in 2016. In three other districts -- state House 135 held by Rep. Gary Elkins, District 26 held by Rep. Rick Miller, and District 132 held by Rep. Mike Schofield -- Clinton was within 5 percentage points of winning.

Republicans hold a dominating edge in both the Texas House and Senate. In the House, Republicans have 95 seats compared to 55 for Democrats. In the Texas Senate Republicans hold 20 seats to just 11 for Democrats.

Ward said she knows the math and isn't pretending the NDRC is going to win it all back this year. She said what makes their organization different from past efforts in Texas is that they are here for the long hall. She said they expect to help Democrats make some gains this year and build off those in another four years.

"We're here for the long term," Ward said.

The work in Texas will include helping with litigation to fight what the group calls unconstitutional redistricting, mobilizing communities by create long-term infrastructure to get more of the public engaged in redistricting, and helping Democratic candidates win seats in the Legislature so they can play a bigger role in drawing redistricting maps.

She said Holder will be traveling the country in support of the effort and Obama has made redistricting one of his top post-presidential priorities and is expected to remain engaged in the topic.

Bring it on

The Republican Party of Texas' answer? Bring it on.

"This is just the latest in a series of attempts to mess with Texas by Obama and his administration over the years," Republican Party of Texas Chairman James Dickey said.

He pointed to the Obama network's attempt to help state Sen. Wendy Davis in the 2014 gubernatorial election as example of how futile their work has been.

But Ward says there is clearly a different environment building in America and Texas heading into 2018. Democrats in Texas have a serious contender for the U.S. Senate in Beto O'Rourke, three of the most competitive U.S. House races in America (including the 7th Congressional District in Houston), and Democrats have candidates running in every U.S. House race in Texas.

"All of these are signs of momentum growing," she said.

Manny Garcia, the Texas Democratic Party's Deputy Executive Director, said he's seen a record surge in the number of candidates willing to put themselves up to run for office in state Legislature races and for Congress.

"We need to compete everywhere," Garcia said.

Harris County is a prime example of that. In the nine congressional districts that include Harris County, a record 37 Democrats have qualified for the ballot on March 6.

Garcia said state Democrats welcome the attention from national groups. He said the recognition from group's like Holder's only offers further vindication of the progress Texas Democrats are making.

In 2011, the Texas House had 101 Republicans and 49 Democrats. Since then, Democrats have gained 6 seats and have hopes for more in 2018. In the Senate, though Republicans have a 9 seat edge, Garcia said picking up just two seats would have a big impact on how the Senate operates.

Currently Democrats have few procedural tools to slow down the Republican agenda in Austin. But with two additional seats, Democrats would have enough votes to force Republicans to have to listen to them.

The next redistricting round in Texas is not likely to start until 2021, but Ward said by starting early, her group is building a foundation and helping elect people who will be at the table when new maps are drawn.

"It starts now," Ward said.BROWNSVILLE - Bathed in the aromatic smoke billowing from mesquite coals, Armando Vera tosses 40 cow heads into a 6-foot-deep pit.

Early the next day, customers will line up for Vera's Backyard Bar-B-Que in Brownsville, ordering cheek, tongue and mixed head meat, but most of all the eyes.

"Eye is the Mexican caviar, it's a delicacy," said the 57-year-old Vera. "We're sold out by 7 a.m."

Goat is the protein of choice farther south into Mexico; up in Central Texas, brisket is king. But along the Texas-Mexico border, it's barbacoa de res - cow's head barbecue - that reigns.

For many families living in deep South Texas, barbacoa is the foundation on which all weekends are built. The savory leathery-brown meat, served with corn tortillas and freshly made salsa might be found in gas stations, supermarkets or local restaurants, yet none of them is quite like Vera's.

As the only remaining restaurant in Brownsville, and likely the entire state, with a permit to cook meat in an earthen pit, Vera is a practitioner of an outdoor culinary heritage that has all but vanished in Texas.

"It's the authentic way of cooking barbacoa," Vera reports matter-of-factly.

It was an acquaintance from Mexico who taught his father and uncle the pit style of making meat in the early 1950s, and soon after the brothers were filling two pits with cow heads on weekends.

Business was good, and in 1955, Vera's father, Alberto, opened his own restaurant. He relocated the restaurant in 1957 to the Southmost neighborhood of Brownsville, where the family has been serving up barbacoa ever since.

It was here that Vera grew up, raking coals and wrapping heads for the barbacoa pit. By the time Vera was working alongside his father full time, there were just a few places left around town still preparing barbacoa the old-fashioned way.

Eventually, the other practitioners closed. When the city changed its health regulations, prohibiting food preparation below ground, Vera's was grandfathered in, allowing the family to carry on the tradition.

BY DEFINITION: Barbecue is defined as smoked meats no matter how you spell it

Preparing barbacoa begins days in advance. The heads, between 40 and 60 every week, arrive on Thursdays from a distributor based in Corpus Christi. First Vera and an assistant soak the heads in running water, then rinse off blood, which can sour the flavor of the meat, according to Vera. Finally, the heads are wrapped in aluminum foil.

The pit's dimensions measure about 6 feet deep, 6 feet long and 4 feet wide. It's lined with brick, except for the floor, which is earth and ash.

Friday morning the barbacoa duo lights mesquite logs in the pit. When the coals are orange hot, a metal sheet is set atop the coals, then the heads, along with additional tongues and cheeks, also wrapped in foil, are tossed inside, covered with another metal sheet, and left to cook overnight.

In the early hours of Saturday, everything is removed from the pit and readied for the morning rush.

"I used to have affairs with women," said Ruben Herrera, a local attorney and a faithful customer over the years. "Now I have an affair with barbacoa."

What distinguishes Vera's meat from others, Herrera says, is the taste of mesquite infused into the meat in ways both subtle and haunting.

"I've eaten all over the world, and I can tell you there is nothing like this," Herrera said.

At its peak success in the mid-1990s, Vera struggled to keep pace with demand. Now his restaurant competes with the deep pockets of H-E-B and Stripes, which also offer the tasty weekend treat. Vera spends about $1,000 to $1,200 for the meat, always wary of rising costs.

"Japan started buying lengua (tongue), so it's gotten very expensive," Vera said. "When Japan starts buying something, you've got to be careful."

BRISKET: Building the perfect barbecue joint: brisket

Vera's customers are mostly regulars, with whom he eases into familiar conversation over plates of darkened cow cheek, the puro cachete, and mixta, or mixed meat.

But attention from Texas Monthly has sparked renewed interest in Vera's in recent months. The restaurant landed on the magazine's yearly list of the Top 50 BBQ Joints in Texas in 2017, and suddenly people vacationing in South Texas were pulling up to Vera's drive-through.

Seizing the opportunity, he opened the restaurant on Fridays, and put brisket and carnitas on the menu. He also began offering a habanero and jalapeno salsa, popular with the out-of-town customers.

Still, the years of continually soaking cow heads and brushing mesquite ash off his clothes take a toll.

Vera closes the restaurant just one weekend a year, otherwise he's manning the pit. While Vera inherited the restaurant from his parents, none in his family have shown an interest in replacing him.

When Vera retires, it's possible the restaurant will close, and with it a unique chapter in Texas history.

"My wife says. 'you're never going to get away from there'," Vera said, nodding in agreement. "I was born here."A North Texas teacher has died from complications from the flu.

Heather Holland, a second-grade teacher at Ikard Elementary School with the Weatherford Independent School District died over the weekend, the Weatherford Democrat reports. Holland got sick about a week ago and took medication, but delayed picking up the prescription due to the $116 copay, according to the newspaper.

BRUTAL SEASON: This map of Texas explains why everyone you know has the flu

By Friday night, Holland's condition worsened and she was taken to the hospital. Her husband Frank Holland told the Weatherford Democrat that she died Sunday morning.

"She loved helping people, helping the kids, and the kids loved her," Holland's husband told the Weatherford Democrat.

Charlotte LaGrone, a spokeswoman for Weatherford ISD, told news station CBS DFW that counselors are available at the school for the rest of the week to help students and school staff cope with the sudden loss. She added that custodians started deep cleaning the district's schools in December to keep students from getting sick, and that the specific campus where Holland was employed had received an additional cleaning on Friday, Feb. 2.

MORE FLU IN TEXAS: Texas teacher is on life support after contracting two strains of the flu

This year's flu season has been particularly deadly, with flu-related deaths being reported across the nation. Last month, five flu-related deaths were reported in the greater Houston area. The CDC reports the flu is widespread across America this year and possibly won't peak until March.

Scroll through the gallery above to see top prevention tips for avoiding the flu.

Will Axford is a digital reporter for Chron.com. Read more of his stories here and follow him on Twitter.A few days ago, I joined several thousand global health practitioners, researchers, activists and policymakers at a conference in Bangkok titled "Making the World Safe from the Threats of Emerging Infectious Diseases."

The audience was abuzz about a new study by a team of economists - including former U.S. Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers - that shows the staggering economic costs of a future pandemic. They estimate the annual losses from a moderate to severe pandemic would be about $500 billion, or 0.6 percent of global income. That's similar to the annual costs of global warming, double the cost of natural disasters and five times the cost of terrorism.

These new estimates are much higher than previous studies have suggested, and they point to the need for us to step up our efforts to prepare for the next pandemic. So it was troubling to learn that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is planning to scale back efforts to prevent those very diseases.

RELATED: Playing Pandemic for serious stakes

The CDC's actions come amid expectations that the United States will let lapse $600 million in funding to combat global outbreaks, which was appropriated in 2014 at the height of a catastrophic Ebola outbreak in West Africa. Yet there is considerable evidence that this emergency funding worked. In West Africa and other parts of the world, the CDC has trained disease detectives to diagnose, prevent and contain outbreaks.

When Ebola again began to spread in the Democratic Republic of the Congo last year, health officials, including those trained and supported by the CDC, were able to act swiftly to contain the virus, saving lives and preventing what could have been a massive disaster.

RELATED: With global economy, odds were high for U.S. Ebola case

To end this funding now would be like a homeowner, having just been spared from a fire by a smoke alarm, deciding to disconnect the alarm.

We've made this mistake before. It's relatively easy to garner support to fight infectious diseases when they are rampant and capturing our attention, but too often the motivation to sustain funding wanes when the infection appears to be under control. Peter Sands, executive director of The Global Fund, argues that our approach to fighting infections is characterized by "cycles of panic followed by neglect."

Global health history is full of such examples. In a study that I co-authored, we found 75 episodes of malaria resurgence, where in most cases countries had successfully controlled malaria, only to have it come roaring back once they cut their malaria programs.

This is why the findings by Summers and colleagues are so urgent. When economic losses from a pandemic are expected to exceed $500 billon per year, penny-pinching on our funding to prevent outbreaks is glaringly short-sighted.

Perhaps most curious is the CDC's reported plan to deal with dwindling resources by downscaling efforts in 39 of the 49 countries where this funding is currently deployed. Most pandemics begin with a spark - a pathogen jumps from domesticated or wild animals to humans. And yet the CDC plans to lessen its vigilance in some of the most likely places in the world for that spark to occur, countries such as China, Pakistan, Haiti, Rwanda and the Congo.

Pandemics know no boundaries. That is especially true now, when global factors such as international travel, climate change, deforestation and human-animal interactions are accelerating the spread of infectious diseases.

We have seen this in Texas, which over the last five years has experienced transmission or outbreaks of infections like Zika, Ebola, chikungunya and West Nile. A study by Dr. Peter Hotez, founding dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, found that the rise of these diseases in Texas is driven not just by these global factors, but also by local factors such as rising poverty, falling vaccination rates, urbanization and the local impacts of climate change.

RELATED: With Zika, we're running out of time, and babies will pay the price

In our modern age, when an outbreak in a far-off land can quickly reach our back yard, there is no room for territorial thinking. Like ships on an ocean, we rise and fall together.

We cannot make the world safe from pandemic diseases by looking away after an emergency fades, nor by hoping that infectious diseases stay within the borders of far-away nations. It is time for us to end the cycles of panic and neglect and invest reasonably and rationally in outbreak preparedness every day and everywhere. The human and economic costs of inaction are intolerable.

Yamey is a professor of global health and public policy at Duke University, where he directs the Center for Policy Impact in Global Health."We like to eat, we like to wear clothes and we like to put gas in our cars. All three of those things are affected by the Department of Agriculture."

That's how Trey Blocker succinctly describes the importance of the agency he wants to manage. Blocker is unquestionably the best qualified candidate running in the Republican primary for Texas agriculture commissioner. Anybody who's been paying attention to the news coming out of this corner of Austin during the last couple of years knows it needs new leadership.

ENDORSEMENTS: The Houston Chronicle editorial board recommends...

Blocker is a conservative ethics lawyer offended by what he calls "corruption and crony capitalism" in state government, but he's also spent decades working as a lobbyist for the farming and ranching communities. Ask him anything about the myriad duties performed by the Texas Department of Agriculture and he'll tell you not only how things work, but also how they need to change.

This department has a peculiar list of duties. As you might expect, it supports farmers and ranchers in a variety of ways, like offering loan guarantees, administering research grants and regulating pesticide use. At the same time, it regulates grocery scales, oversees the integrity of supermarket price scanners and administers school lunch programs.

Blocker wants to shrink the size of this agency by shedding some of its duties that have nothing to do with agriculture. Why, he asks, does the agriculture department regulate gasoline pumps? The answer is pretty simple and pretty silly: No politician has ever wanted to take his name off of the signs posted at gas stations. Blocker thinks that responsibility rightly belongs with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. It's not often that a candidate wants a job so he can relinquish some of the powers that come with the post.

Texas voters are lucky that Blocker decided to enter this race, because he's a well-qualified, conservative Republican alternative to Sid Miller. Even if you don't follow state government very closely, you may have heard about the shenanigans of this embarrassing incumbent.

Miller claims he's conservative, but he doesn't act like one. After angering farmers and business owners by raising a host of regulatory fees, he gave employees of his agency more than $400,000 in bonuses. He used taxpayer money for a trip to Oklahoma where he got a so-called "Jesus shot" for chronic pain. He also traveled to Mississippi on the state's dime where it so happened he wanted to participate in a rodeo. The Texas Rangers ended up investigating both incidents, and Miller ended up reimbursing the state's coffers.

The incumbent agriculture commissioner needs to be put out to pasture. Republican primary voters should throw their support to Trey Blocker.Somali-registered Thai fishing boat caught with double the permissible catch

by Suriya Patathayo

February 08,2018 | Source: WardheerNews

A fishing boat with a permit issued by the breakaway Somali state of Puntland, bearing the Thai name of Chotechai Navy 35, was recently intercepted in Samut Sakhon on suspicion of illegal fishing and human trafficking, police announced on Thursday.



The crew of 22 Thais and one Cambodian were detained and 500,000 kilograms of fish and other marine life seized.



During a press conference in Bangkok, Pol Lt-General Jaruwat Waisaya, chief of the Office of Legal Affairs and Litigation, said the boat, captained by Pawit Kerdsuwan, had docked at Samut Sakhons Thachin Union Port to unload fish.



SVG Fisheries Development Co had earlier made a request to authorities to allow the unloading.



However, officials found that the boat only had a fishing permit from Puntland and also violated the catch limit of 270,000kg of fish, Jaruwat said.



After Thai officials filed an inquiry, Somali authorities replied that the country had not authorised the boat to fish in its own waters and it was not registered in its system. Puntland is internationally recognised as a part of Somalia, although it declared independence in 1998.



The boat was not equipped with the vessel-monitoring system that was legally required, Jaruwat added.



Police proceeded with legal action on charges of bringing an illegal fishing vessel into the Thailands waters without permission, which is punishable by a fine between Bt1 million and Bt30 million.



Charges were being filed against Green Laurel International, the legal entity registered as the boats owner; its executives Supachote Saengsuk-eium and Surakan Saengsuk-eium; another man identified as the boats real owner, Wanchai Saengsuk-eium; and SVG Fisheries Development Co, Jaruwat said.



Both Supachote and Wanchai surrendered to police last week, denying the charges and saying they would testify in court, Jaruwat said.



Surakan failed to meet police after a second summons, claiming she was ill, and promised to surrender on Friday, Jaruwat said.



The Cambodian worker apprehended on the boat told police that he had escaped from hardship working conditions on another vessel named Chotechai Navi 55 and hitched a ride on the Chotechai Navy 35 to return to Thailand.



Thai authorities have already sent the man back to Cambodia.



Thailand has been conducting an ongoing campaign to combat illegal, unlicensed and unregulated (IUU) fishing since being hit by the European Union with a yellow card for harmful practices within the fishing industry.

 2018 WardheerNews

Theme(s): Fishing Craft, Gear and Fishing Methods.Vietnam jails activist for livestreaming fishermen's pollution march

February 07,2018 | Source: Associated Press

A court in central Vietnam sentenced an activist to 14 years in jail Tuesday for livestreaming fishermen marching to file a lawsuit against a Taiwan-owned steel plant's spill of toxins into the ocean.



Following a trial by the People's Court in Nghe An province that lasted half a day Tuesday, Hoang Duc Binh was convicted of abusing democratic freedoms to infringe on the interests of the state, organization and people and opposing officers on duty, lawyer Ha Huy Son said.



Fellow activist Nguyen Nam Phong was given 2 years in jail for opposing officers on duty.



During last February's livestream on Facebook, Binh commented that the fishermen were stopped and beaten by authorities. Son said Binh told the court that he made the comments, but he denied committing a crime because what he said was true.



The court said his comments were untrue and slandered authorities.



The U.S. was "deeply troubled" by the two activists' convictions and sentences "under vague articles" of the law, State Department spokesman Heather Nauert said in a statement from Washington.



The $10.6 billion steel complex owned by Formosa Plastics Group, which includes a steel plant, a power plant and a deep sea port in Ha Tinh province, discharged toxins such as cyanide and phenol during a test run in April 2016.



It killed massive amounts of fish and other sea life along more than 200 kilometers (125 miles) of coastline, devastating fishing communities and tourism in four central provinces. The plant owner has paid $500 million in compensation.



The chemical spill, one of the country's worst environmental disasters, sparked rare protests.



Despite economic reforms three decades ago that opened up the communist-ruled country to foreign investment and trade, making it one of fastest growing economies in the region, the one-party state maintains tight control on all aspects of life including the media and has zero tolerance for dissent.



Eight people have been convicted and given prison sentences for spreading propaganda against the state over the past month.



International human rights groups and some Western governments have criticized Vietnam for punishing those who peacefully express their views. Hanoi maintains that only law breakers are punished.



Nauert, in the U.S. reaction to Tuesday's convictions, said the trend of arrests and harsh sentences for peaceful activists in Vietnam was "very concerning" and called on Vietnam to release all prisons of conscience immediately.

 Taiwan News  2017

Theme(s): Communities and Organisations.Lawsuit over Canada's Indigenous hunting and fishing rights argues treaty should go in the trash

by Erik White

February 08,2018 | Source: CBC News

A lawsuit filed on behalf of 40 Indigenous hunters and fishermen in the North Bay area of Ontario, Canada, could have wide reaching implications.



It claims the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850, which covers much of northeastern Ontario, is invalid, because the people who signed it had no right to give away someone else's homeland.



The suit was filed earlier this month on behalf of Algonquin hunters from the Sturgeon Falls area and commercial fishermen from the nearby Nipissing First Nation.



The hunters were charged by provincial conservation officers in years past for hunting outside of their traditional territory, which under the Robinson-Huron Treaty, belongs to the Anishnabek or Ojibwa people.



The fishermen were also charged by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources last year under an agreement between the province and Nipissing First Nation.



It says that anyone who doesn't follow the commercial fishing rules set out by the Nipissing chief and council will be turned over to the MNR to be charged under Ontario laws.



Those fishermen contacted lawyer Michael Swinwood, who was already representing the Algonquin hunters.



He argues that all of the Indigenous people in the area covered by the Robinson-Huron Treaty are really Algonquin and descended from the people of what was once known as the Amikwa Nation, which stretched from what today we call Sault Ste. Marie to the Atlantic Ocean.



"It fits into the story of divide and conquer when you're able to say no, this tribe isn't connected to that tribe, but it just isn't so. They're all of the same root and they're all one," he says.



Swinwood says historic accounts show that the treaty in 1850 was signed between the colonial Canadian government and Potawatomi leaders from present-day Wisconsin, who had no right to speak for the people who actually lived in this area.



The lawsuit argues that this makes the treaty invalid, meaning Swinwood's clients can't be charged with fishing and hunting violations by the first nations governments, like Nipissing, created by that treaty or by the provincial and federal governments.



If the lawsuit is successful, it would dissolve any legal relationship between local Indigenous peoples and the Canadian government and likely lead to negotiations for a new treaty.



This comes as the 21 First Nations covered by Robinson-Huron are in the midst of a court battle to get more government funding based on the terms set out in the treaty.



"The Robinson-Huron Treaty really wasn't beneficial to them anyway," says Swinwood.



"When you get right down to it, there's nothing but hassle all the way through, so what good is it?"



The Anishnabek Nation and Nipissing First Nation declined to speak as the matter is before the courts.



The Ontario government could not be reached for comment.



The federal government provided the following statement:



"Honouring Canada's treaty obligations to Treaty First Nation peoples and working collaboratively to renew the nation-to-nation relationship based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership is important to the Government of Canada. As of February 8, 2018, to the best of its knowledge, Canada has not been served with any notice of legal action on this matter."

 2018 CBC/Radio-Canada

Theme(s): Communities and Organisations.Japan deports stranded North Korean boat crew

Eight North Koreans rescued from a boat adrift near an island in northern Japan last year were deported home via China on Friday, an immigration official told AFP.



The eight men were part of a group of 10 North Korean fishermen spotted aboard a tiny wooden boat struggling in bad weather last November.



They are to return to North Korea from a Hokkaido airport via Beijing, a spokeswoman for the Sapporo Regional Immigration Bureau told AFP.



Two other crew members remain in Japan, one of them in hospital with tuberculosis and the other, the boats 45-year-old skipper, facing charges of theft, she added.



The captain was arrested and indicted last year for stealing a power generator from a local fishery cooperatives facility on the island, part of Hokkaido  the northernmost of Japans four main islands.



According to the indictment, the captain took the lead in stealing some 40 items ranging from home appliances to solar panels worth 5.65 million yen ($45,000), public broadcaster NHK said, adding that he will stand trial in a Japanese court.



Dozens of North Korean fishing vessels have washed up on Japans coast in recent years, with the number hitting a record 104 in 2017, up from 66 the previous year, according to the Japanese coastguard.



Experts say some North Korean fishermen are travelling further out to sea in order to satisfy government mandates for bigger catches.



But their old and poorly equipped vessels are prone to mechanical and other problems, including running out of fuel, and there are few ways for them to call for rescue.



Some of the boats wash up on Japanese shores with the crew on board dead, a phenomenon referred to by the local media as ghost ships.

 Dar Al Khaleej

Theme(s): Others.Lagos community residents panic, fishermen groan as govt pushes water through land reclamation

February 11,2018 | Source: Punch

As a wave of sea encroachment settles on Oworonshoki waterfront in Lagos, Nigeria, GBENGA ADENIJI and TOLUWANI ENIOLA examine the fears of dwellers on future effects on the environment and the cloud of uncertainty over fishing in the area and beyond



It was 2.35pm. The wet clothes on Kahome Modu, his weary face and strained feet as he dragged them out of a wooden boat stationed at the seashore exposed his fatigue.



He was on water fishing for over eight hours, but his catch for the day made him sad. They were frustratingly paltry compared to the usual whenever he went fishing.



Stretching his arms as he yawned sharply, he asked his companion, a boy, observably mature in the fishing business, to pack the fishes in the boat.



I am very tired. The only thing I need now is to have a bath and sleep. This work is becoming stressful and I have no other job I know, he said.



Modu is one of the fishermen at Ebute Eleja (seashore of fish) in the Ilaje area tucked in the Bariga Local Council Development Area of Lagos State.



SUNDAY PUNCH gathered that the voyage of fishermen at Ebute Eleja has hit a lull since the start of the sand filling project at Oworonshoki waterfront by the state government. Oworonshoki is situated just at the mainland end of the Third Mainland Bridge.



Modu said, The sand filling at Oworonshoki waterfront shifted clay and silt to our side of the sea. We can no longer fish nearby. It is now harder paddling our canoes because of the mud. Before now, two persons could get a canoe on the sea but now, about four people do that because the mud has replaced water and it drags back the canoe.



We know it is the price we have to pay for being poor and living by the sea. But we have to eat since we have no other means of livelihood. I left for the sea at 5am and because the sand filling at Oworonshoki no longer allows us to fish nearby, I went as far as Agboyi Ketu. Sadly, I came back with little fishes after several hours on the sea.



The Lagos State Government last year disclosed that the waterfront would be transformed into one of the biggest entertainment hubs in Nigeria, adding that it would improve the security of the environment and attract investments in water transport.



It added that the entertainment and mega ferry terminal site would divert some of the heavy human and vehicular traffic away from the Lagos Island.



Specifically, it stated that commuters, transiting through the terminal, would not only enjoy state-of-the-art infrastructure, but also be able to park and cruise in the modern jetty, thereby reducing the carbon emission level and travel time within the city.



The government explained that the project would be in three phases: the phase one bordered on the reclamation of the 29.5 hectares of the project site expected to be completed by November, 2017.



It further stated that the phase two would involve the provision of shoreline protection and reconstruction of 2.8 kilometre Ariyo Street as an alternative road running under the Third Mainland Bridge along with other infrastructure due for completion by June 2018.



According to the government, the third phase to be financed by public-private partnership, will involve the construction of the mega jetty and bus terminal with entertainment and tourism facilities like boutiques, hotels, as well as a 1000-capacity car park.

 1971-2018 The Punch newspaper

Theme(s): Communities and Organisations.This is a story about Outback Steakhouse that prompts three questions:

Do you tip for takeout? Before you answer, what if it's a really big order?

If you don't tip, do you think it would be okay for the person who waited on you to post on Facebook about how cheap you are?

And if that person did post on Facebook, and you don't or his or her employer doesn't like it, is that a fireable offense?

The whole thing starts with a volunteer from a Florida megachurch called Christ Fellowship, who went to an Outback Steakhouse to pick up a giant order: 25 steaks, 25 chickens, and 25 potato dishes.

The whole thing came to $735, without tip.

The church volunteer left it that way: without tip.

An order like that takes a long time to put together, according to Tamlynn Yoder, who was the Outback employee (now "ex-employee") who fulfilled the order and brought it out to the volunteer's car.

In fact, Voder told the Palm Beach Post that she'd spent almost her entire shift that day assembling it. That meant less time for waiting tables (her normal job), which in turn meant less money.

In fact, she says she made a total of $18 for the day, mostly from tips left by other customers.

"Tips is how we make our money," Yoder told the Post. "We still make a low wage as servers."

Frustrated and angry, Yoder posted on her personal Facebook page afterward, naming Christ Fellowship but not naming Outback. And from there, things spiraled quickly.

A friend who saw the post advised Yoder to take it down, concerned that it could come back to haunt her.

Then the friend contacted the Christ Fellowship church, and the church called Outback. (They say they wanted to correct things and leave a tip.)

There was still no tip. Instead, Outback refunded the church the entire $735 order.

And the next day, when Yoder showed up for work, they fired her.

A spokesperson for Outback told the newspaper that her company has a policy prohibiting employees from posting on social media about customers.

Which makes sense. But was it a fireable offense?

A lot of that probably turns on whether you think you're supposed to tip for takeout to begin with. It's a contentious topic, and the subject of a lot of debate.

I'm drawn for example to this 2016 analysis, where the hypothetical situation offered was--wait for it--whether you need to tip for takeout at "a large chain restaurant (like an Outback Steakhouse)."

They concluded no, you don't have to. And in this unscientific 2014 Internet poll, only 13 percent of people said they tip for takeout.

But in the wake of this Florida Outback situation, a lot of people don't seem to agree with that.

The Facebook page and Yelp listing for the Christ Fellowship church are both now filled with comments condemning the church for not giving the woman a tip--even though they claim they contacted the restaurant only to try to make things right with Yoder.

She even said the church had contacted her to say they planned "to rectify the whole thing," Yoder said.

All of which leaves a few takeaways (pun intended):

First, don't post negative things on social media about your customers. We've seen a lot of that lately; it never works out.

Next, if you own a business, pay people fairly and treat your employees with respect. I'd have to imagine that whatever Outback saved in the course of this whole fiasco has long been eclipsed by the negative press.Everybody deserves great service. Even United Airlines admits that.

But if there are a few categories of people who might deserve a little extra consideration, new moms and members of the U.S. armed forces would probably be near the top of the list.

We can all agree on this right?

We're not talking about over the top special treatment. Just a little bit of respect, and a little bit of acknowledgment that they're shouldering a bit of an extra load.

Unfortunately, according to a mom who is also an active duty member of the U.S. military, that was a little bit too much to ask for recently on a flight with United Airlines.

(This is the same United Airlines, you might recall, that just gathered thousands of its supervisors and rolled out its plan to become known as a "more caring," and "customer-centric airline.")

Kimberly West is a mom of three kids under 5 including an 8-month-old, and a member of the U.S. Air Force stationed in Virginia. She's nursing her baby, and so when she was sent by the military on a two-week deployment exercise in Hawaii, she wanted to keep pumping milk, and bring it home with her.

In the process, she developed mastitis, which can be very painful: "Terrible fevers and an excruciating pain while pumping," she wrote in a Facebook post (the full post is embedded below). "I went to the doctor and fought through."

It was tough, but she was understandably proud, and excited to get back to her family at the end of the exercise. She said she looked in vain for instructions on how to pack breast milk to be checked on United Airlines.

So she packed the milk she'd stored in a sturdy cooler--400 ounces worth--and boarded a United flight home.

Her cooler of "liquid gold," as I've seen many new moms refer to breast milk, was a lot lighter when she landed back home. About 75 percent of the milk she'd checked was missing.

West was "distraught," she wrote on Facebook. She went straight to baggage customer service. There, things quickly got worse:

When I told the woman what happened she threw her hands in the air, rolled her eyes and stated, "And what exactly do you want me to do about lost breastmilk?! Who would want to steal THAT?" ... When her manager arrived she told me I could put in a claim but it probably wouldn't do me any good because breastmilk is free. I told her my time and energy was not free. She stated, "I can't repay you for your time."

The Facebook post started to go viral. Many people were supportive. Some were critical. In answer to two oft-asked questions, West told me:

she brought it on the plane instead of mailing it home because postage from Hawaii would have been prohibitive, and she checked her breast milk because it was way too much to carry onto the plane comfortably.

Was the breast milk stolen? That would seem very odd, West agreed, but there had to be some explanation. She also told me she's heard from United twice, most recently on Sunday.

There's no resolution yet, but she says the airline admitted that its customer service people's response at the airport was "unacceptable," and said it was working with "government agencies" to review all the video footage that might show what had happened to her breast milk.

They're also negotiating what kind of compensation she should receive, West said. It's probably impossible to value her breast milk exactly, but it took time and effort.

Besides, she said, if the airline had lost her luggage with clothing in it, they'd pay some sort of restitution.

What she wants most out of this however, she said, is that all airlines--"not just United"--will come up with a policy or procedure for checking breast milk.

"It's ludicrous to me that there isn't [a visible policy]," West told me. "I'm not the first traveling working mom and I certainly won't be the last. If something like that can happen I will be able to feel better about the loss."

After the original version of this article was published, United Airlines offered a statement:

"This incident is concerning, and we are working with our customer directly to resolve this issue. We are also working with the appropriate teams to learn more about what happened, including assisting the customers in filling a report with the TSA, which inspected her checked item."Over the past year, technology companies Uber and Waymo (the self-driving business spun out of Google) have been engaged in a battle of wills, culminating in a high-profile court case that commenced last week. Waymo has accused Uber of stealing trade secrets related to its self-driving technology.

But on Friday, just four days after the trial began, Uber and Waymo announced they had reached a settlement.

What happened? According to a report in the New York Times, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi had been working behind the scenes for weeks, looking to took advantage of a golden opportunity.

Per the Times:

Mr. Khosrowshahi worked to coax Google's founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, and to let them know that Uber had turned over a new leaf, according to two people briefed on the situation, who asked not to be identified because the details were confidential. Tony West, Uber's recently appointed general counsel and a former Department of Justice official, also jumped into the negotiations, these people said. The actions helped lead to a compromise. On Friday, four days after the trial began and revealed some embarrassing testimony, Uber and Waymo announced they had settled the trade secrets dispute. Under the agreement, Waymo dropped the suit and will receive 0.34 percent of stock in Uber. Uber also said that it could have handled some past actions around driverless car tech differently.

Contemplating Khosrowshahi's actions reminded me of one of my favorite anonymous quotes, which sums up this story in a single sentence:

Apologizing doesn't always mean you're wrong and the other person is right; it means you value your relationship more than your ego.

In my forthcoming book, EQ, Applied: The Real-World Guide to Emotional Intelligence, I use examples like this to illustrate the power of emotional intelligence: the ability to make emotions work for you, instead of against you.

What emotional intelligence has to do with it

First, some context. How did we get here?

It all started when former Uber CEO Travis Kalanick hired Anthony Levandowski, a prominent engineer in the field of self-driving technology, who was previously employed by Google. After leaving Google, Levandowski founded Otto, a self-driving truck startup. Believing Levandowski would help take Uber's autonomous driving efforts to the next level, Kalanick acquired Otto in 2016.

But Waymo alleged that Levandowski illegally downloaded thousands of proprietary documents before he left. To add insult to injury, Levandowski poached a number of top Google engineers to join his efforts at Otto.

Obviously, Google didn't appreciate any of this. But part of the problem between the two companies was Kalanick's defiance that he had done anything wrong. Kalanick readily admits that his view of Google changed; at one point he saw the company as a potential partner, but he eventually identified it as a likely competitor and threat. Nevertheless, Kalanick has strongly held his position of innocence, even after the settlement was announced. "Our sole objective was to hire the most talented scientists and engineers to help lead the company and our cities to a driverless future," he said in a statement (as reported by the Times.) "The evidence at trial overwhelmingly proved that, and had the trial proceeded to its conclusion, it is clear Uber would have prevailed."

In stark contrast, Khosrowshahi, who replaced Kalanick, has focused on mending the relationship with Google. This can be seen clearly from an official statement he published via Uber's blog on Friday. In addition to apologizing for Uber's "mistakes of the past," Khosrowshahi reaffirmed his desire to work together with Alphabet (Google's parent company).

"To our friends at Alphabet: we are partners, you are an important investor in Uber, and we share a deep belief in the power of technology to change people's lives for the better," wrote Khosrowshahi.

Uber's new chief then added this fascinating statement:

"To be clear, while we do not believe that any trade secrets made their way from Waymo to Uber, nor do we believe that Uber has used any of Waymo's proprietary information in its self-driving technology, we are taking steps with Waymo to ensure our Lidar [navigation technology] and software represents just our good work."

What makes this is so interesting is that Khosrowshahi basically said exactly what Kalanick has claimed all along: that Uber didn't steal Waymo's technology.

The difference, of course, is in the way Khosrowshahi says it. By striking a conciliatory tone and offering an olive branch (accompanied by equity), Khosrowshahi managed to persuade Alphabet's leadership to put this ugly mess behind them and look to a brighter future--one that includes potential collaboration.Just when I thought my opinion of pro-prostitution lobbyists could not get any lower, I see a tweet by one about the Oxfam scandal: Buying sex from professionals is not sexual misconduct and women in Haiti may well have been glad to get the sex work. I hate prissy Establishment fiddle-faddle implying development workers are ethical puritans or saints.

There you have it. The idea that the women involved in prostitution in Haiti are somehow benefiting from being bought and sold by the very men that are supposed to be helping them cope with their hellish existence.

Let us consider what this person is defending. Oxfam's country director in Haiti, Roland van Hauwermeiren, admitted using prostituted females at premises paid for with charitable funds. Children may well have been among those abused by van Hauwermeiren and other aid workers. This happened after the earthquake in 2010, which killed 220,000 people, injured 300,000 and left 1.5 million homeless.

There are also allegations that some male senior officials at the charity were using prostituted women and girls in Chad in 2006. Many men working in developing countries consider using women in this way as a perk of the job. We know that many sex markets in countries such as the Philippines exist because of the presence of the military and so-called peacekeepers.

These men are enabling terrible human rights violations. They are literally propping up a system that causes misery and heartache for women and children. There have been numerous cases of child sexual abuse and human trafficking inside Haitis orphanages following the earthquake, and some young women have spoken about the desperation and poverty that led them to street prostitution.

 Andrew Mitchell says Oxfam 'did report the matter to the Department for International Development but he wasn't informed

Wherever there is conflict, natural disasters and dire poverty, women and children will be abused into prostitution. Traffickers target countries such as Haiti, knowing that there will be rich pickings, because women and girls will be additionally vulnerable.

I have witnessed scandals like this before. In 1999, during my first trip to Kosovo, shortly after the end of the war, I was told by my driver that a number of brothels were being built close to the area inhabited by a number of charities and UN organisations, because so many of the men stationed there were prolific prostitute users. I saw a number of men going in and out of these establishments, despite the fact that many of them were there to advise local law enforcers on anti-trafficking strategies.

I also recall the scandal that broke when Kathryn Bolkovac, a monitor with United Nations International Police Task Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina, sued her employers for unfair dismissal when she lost her job in 1999 after she reported that officers were paying for sex, raping underage girls and participating in sex trafficking. I was in the Balkans when the story first emerged, and spoke to a number of UN officials about it. Many of the men I spoke to either justified officials paying for sex, suggesting that they were away from home for a long time and needed sex, or accused Bolkovac of lying.

David Lamb, a former Philadelphia police officer who served as a UN human rights investigator in Bosnia until 2009, investigated allegations that six Romanian, Fijian and Pakistani officers stationed in the town of Bijeljina were trafficking women into prostitution.

Lamb found plenty of evidence to justify a full-scale criminal investigation, and faced physical threats and blocking by his superiors, including a senior Ukrainian police officer who ordered an end to the investigation.

The sex trade is built on colonialism and racism, as well as misogyny. Whether it is the overrepresentation of African American girls and women in prostitution in the US, or the targeting of indigenous and native women and girls in countries such as Australia, New Zealand and Canada, it is clear that rich, powerful, white men consider it their right to use such women and girls as commodities.

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Oxfam is supposed to put vulnerable women and children at the centre of its efforts, and yet some of the organisations most senior male officials appear to have done the opposite. It is nothing short of a disgrace that prostitution apologists somehow create a defence of these vile sexual predators by suggesting that the women and girls lured into the sex trade are somehow making a choice, and are professionals doing a job. These women and girls are being abused and exploited by men who are paid huge salaries to make their lives less horrendous.

One of the myths about the sex trade is that the men who rent the inside of womens bodies for their one-sided sexual pleasure are somehow doing a favour to their victims because money changes hands. As my close friend and colleague, the formidable writer and sex trade survivor Rachel Moran, has said in response to white liberals who claim paying for sex is defensible because it provides an income to poor women: Wouldnt you say, if a person cannot afford to feed themselves, the appropriate thing to put in their mouth is food, not your c*ck?Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar has said he is very hopeful of a powersharing agreement being reached this week.

After a series of talks involving Theresa May and the leaders of Sinn Fein and the DUP, the premier said there was a lot of work to do but progress was going in the right direction.

Democratic Unionist leader Arlene Foster said earlier the tone of the talks had been very good and Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said the two parties were close to an agreement.

Mr Varadkar said: We are very hopeful that those two parties are able to come to an agreement this week.The Prime Minister and Taoiseach are holding crunch talks at Stormont amid growing speculation that a deal to restore powersharing is edging closer.

Theresa May and Leo Varadkar are spending the afternoon in Belfast in a joint push to help end the 13-month political stalemate.

The leaders arrived at Stormont House before lunch, ahead of a bilateral meeting to discuss the impasse.

Meeting with @Number10gov Theresa May and her officials in Belfast, constructive talks on restoring power sharing and Brexit. Next up: meeting leaders of the Northern Irish parties pic.twitter.com/RvHcIpjh3Q  Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) February 12, 2018

They are then due to hold discussions with the regions political leaders in a bid to encourage Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionists (DUP) to resolve their differences.

While both parties have acknowledged that progress had been made, a DUP source has played down expectations of a deal being finalised on Monday, suggesting to the Press Association that if an agreement does materialise it is more likely later in the week.

In a clear sign that the dynamic at Stormont has shifted gears, the Taoiseach has cancelled a scheduled meeting with Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones in Dublin on Monday in order to head to Belfast.

Downing Street said Mrs May will tell the parties that her Government is ready to introduce legislation to enable the re-establishment of a devolved Executive as soon as possible, if an agreement is struck.

Ahead of the meetings at Stormont, the Prime Minister met aircraft workers at Bombardiers Belfast factory in the wake of the companys trade battle victory in the United States.

Mrs May toured the plant floor where the wings of the Canadian manufacturers C Series jets are built.

Bombardiers bitter trade dispute with Boeing had threatened jobs at the Belfast plant, but there was relief at the plant last month when a proposed 292% tariff on the US import of the jets was overturned by the US International Trade Commission (ITC) in Washington DC.

The Prime Minister directly lobbied President Donald Trump on a number of occasions during the trade row.

Northern Ireland has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed.

However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is imminent.

On Saturday, Sinn Feins Stormont leader Michelle ONeill said talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a standalone piece of legislation to protect speakers  an Irish Language Act  but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.

There was speculation over the weekend that three pieces of legislation  an Irish Language Act, an Ulster Scots Act and a broader Culture Act  could be a means to satisfy both sides.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has warned that any deal to restore powersharing must end the cycle of political stand-off between Sinn Fein and the DUP.

He said it is not enough to simply form a new executive.

The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off, but very bad at the responsibility of government, he said.

That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end.The Prime Minister and Taoiseach will travel to Northern Ireland later amid growing speculation that a deal to restore the powersharing government is imminent.

Theresa May and Leo Varadkar will meet with Stormonts main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate.

A Downing Street spokesman said Mrs May would take part in a series of meetings at Stormont House and encourage Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionists to resolve their differences.

A spokesman for Mr Varadkar said he and Mrs May would assess the state of play in the negotiations between the parties.

In a sign that the dynamic at Stormont has shifted gears, the Taoiseach has cancelled a scheduled meeting with Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones in Dublin on Monday in order to head to Belfast.

Downing Street said Mrs May will tell the parties her government is ready to introduce legislation to enable the re-establishment of a devolved executive as soon as possible, if an agreement materialises.

Ahead of the meetings at Stormont, the Prime Minister will visit a local business to meet staff and management.

Northern Ireland has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed.

However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is close.

Both parties publicly acknowledged on Friday that progress had been made.

On Saturday, Sinn Feins Stormont leader Michelle ONeill said talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an Executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a stand-alone piece of legislation to protect speakers  an Irish Language Act  but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.

Finding a compromise resolution to the thorny language dispute that will satisfy both parties is key to breaking the Stormont deadlock.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood warned that any deal to restore powersharing must end the cycle of political stand-off between Sinn Fein and the DUP.

Mr Eastwood said it is not enough to simply form a new executive.

The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off, but very bad at the responsibility of government, he said.

That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end.

Mr Eastwood added that when powersharing is restored, focus must return immediately to the threat posed by Brexit, the economy and the crises in the health service and school budgets.The Prime Minister has urged Stormonts leaders to make one final push to strike a deal to salvage powersharing in Northern Ireland.

After holding talks with the Democratic Unionists and Sinn Fein in Belfast, Theresa May insisted there was the basis of an agreement to end the 400-day political impasse and she expressed confidence a devolved executive would be up and running very soon.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also held talks with politicians at Stormont, though notably he did not have a meeting with the DUP.

Meeting with @Number10gov Theresa May and her officials in Belfast, constructive talks on restoring power sharing and Brexit. Next up: meeting leaders of the Northern Irish parties pic.twitter.com/RvHcIpjh3Q  Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) February 12, 2018

Mr Varadkar said he hoped a deal could be achieved later this week.

Mrs May, who met all the main parties at Stormont House on Monday afternoon, said the discussions were full and frank.

The DUP and Sinn Fein have been working hard to close the remaining gaps, she said.

Some differences remain but I think there is the basis of an agreement here and I have been urging the parties to make one final push for the people of Northern Ireland.

aA deal is possible, but it is now an issue of political willa - @MaryLouMcDonald pic.twitter.com/o3obtetd4D  Sinn FAin (@sinnfeinireland) February 12, 2018

Mr Varadkar said the differences were not insurmountable. He expressed hope that Stormonts smaller parties  the Ulster Unionists, SDLP and Alliance  could be part of a new coalition executive.

It is our strong view that an inclusive executive including as many parties as possible would be more sustainable and more beneficial for Northern Ireland as a whole, he said.

Relations have been strained between the DUP and Mr Varadkars government over the Brexit process, but Irelands deputy premier Simon Coveney urged people not to read too much into the fact that the main unionist party did not meet the Taoiseach at Stormont on Monday.

Northern Ireland has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed.

However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is imminent.

DUP leader Arlene Foster said the tone of the meeting with Mrs May was positive. Mrs Foster said she shared public frustration that the pace of progress had been slow.

We have been engaged in three weeks of intensive talks with Sinn Fein building on the talks that have been going on for some time, she said.

We recognise the frustration that is out there but good progress has been made and we will continue to work to look for more progress.

Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald said: We believe that we are close to an agreement which, certainly, we can put to our grassroots and to the community as a whole.

She said we are not exactly there just yet, but added: there is nothing insurmountable if there is the political will to reach an agreement.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a standalone piece of legislation to protect speakers  an Irish Language Act  but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.

There was speculation over the weekend that three pieces of legislation  an Irish Language Act, an Ulster Scots Act and a broader Culture Act  could be a means to satisfy both sides.Theresa May is due to fly into Northern Ireland today amid growing speculation that a deal to restore the powersharing government is imminent.

The UK Prime Minister will meet with Stormonts main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate.

A Downing Street official said Mrs May will take part in a series of meetings at Stormont House and encourage the parties to resolve their differences.

The official added that the PM will make clear that the UK Government remains fully committed to the restoration of powersharing, devolution and the Belfast Agreement.

She is expected to tell the parties that she believes progress has been made in recent days and reiterate that the UK and Irish governments  as part of the three-strand approach set out in the Belfast Agreement  will continue to work with them to see an agreement reached.

According to Downing Street, Mrs May will restate her strong belief that a fully functioning Executive, empowered to take decisions over local matters, is the best way to serve the interests of the whole community.

She will also tell them that the UK Government is ready to introduce legislation to enable the re-establishment of an Executive as soon as possible following an agreement.

While she is in the region, the Prime Minister will also meet staff and management at a major employer to discuss the Governments commitment to back business success and opportunity in Northern Ireland.

The region has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed. However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is close.

On Saturday, Sinn Feins Northern Ireland leader Michelle ONeill said talks are likely to draw to a close this week.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood warned that any deal to restore powersharing must end the cycle of political stand-off between Sinn Fein and the DUP.

Mr Eastwood said it is not enough to simply form a new executive.

The real change necessary is an end to the cycle of two parties who have proved themselves very good at the art of political stand-off, but very bad at the responsibility of government.

That is the joint DUP/Sinn Fein status quo that must now end.

Mr Eastwood added that when powersharing is restored, focus must return immediately to the threat posed by Brexit, the economy and the crises in the health service and school budgets.

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led coalition imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an Executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a stand-alone piece of legislation to protect speakers  an Irish Language Act  but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.The Prime Minister has met aircraft workers at Bombardiers Belfast factory in the wake of the companys trade battle victory in the United States.

Theresa May toured the plant floor where the wings of the Canadian manufacturers C Series jets are built ahead of her visit to Stormont to meet Northern Irelands political leaders.

Bombardiers bitter trade dispute with Boeing had threatened jobs at the Belfast plant after the United States trade authorities sided with the US company and proposed a 292% tariff on the import of its rivals planes into the country.

There was a huge sigh of relief in Belfast when that decision was overturned by the US International Trade Commission (ITC) in Washington DC last month.

One thousand of the 4,000 strong workforce at the Belfast factory work on the C Series production line.

Mrs May chatted with some of them on Monday morning as she was shown the assembled wings at close quarters.

She also met with senior company executives.

The ITC ruled that Boeing did not suffer injury from an order of C Series jets placed by Atlanta-based Delta Airlines.

The Prime Minister directly lobbied President Donald Trump on a number of occasions during the trade row.

Boeing had claimed state aid offered to Bombardier by government administrations in the UK and Canada breached international trade rules and enabled Bombardier to sell its jets in the US below cost price.

The US Commerce Department agreed and suggested the massive import tariff on Bombardier.

The ITCs role was to determine whether the aircraft manufacture industry in America was damaged by the imports.

Bombardier had argued the proposed 292% tariff threat ignored long-standing business practices in the aerospace industry, including launch pricing and the financing of multi-billion-dollar aircraft programmes.

But Boeing alleged its business was damaged because Bombardier received inappropriate government subsidies, dumping the C Series in the US through the cut-price 2016 Delta sale of 75 jets.

The ITC rejected Boeings claim and ruled that the import of C Series jets did not injure US industry.Les lunettes de marque ne sont pas ce qui manque dans les commerces. Il y en a de toutes les sortes dont les lunettes de []The Prime Minister and Taoiseach are travelling to Stormont on day 400 of Northern Irelands powersharing crisis. Here is a timeline of some of the key events in the 13-month political impasse.

January

Stormonts Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness resigns in protest over DUP First Minister Arlene Fosters handling of a botched green energy scheme  the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)  that left the administration facing an overspend bill of around 500 million.

The executive falls a week later and a snap election is called.

A public inquiry into RHI is called.

An ailing Mr McGuinness announces he will not stand for re-election. Michelle ONeill is named the new leader of Sinn Fein at Stormont.

February

The RHI, the issue that brought the executive down, gradually starts to take a back seat as other more traditional disputes start to dominate the election campaign  such as Irish language, legacy and the regions ban on same-sex marriage.

Mrs Foster describes Sinn Fein as crocodiles as she insists she will not agree to an Irish Language Act. The remark becomes a feature of the campaign. Republicans and Irish language activists embrace it, dressing up as crocodiles on the trail.

March

Sinn Fein makes major gains in the snap Assembly election, cutting what was a 10-seat gap from the DUP to a solitary seat. The long-standing unionist majority within the Assembly goes.

Mr McGuinness dies. Mrs Foster and Mrs ONeill are pictured shaking hands at his funeral, with some interpreting the gesture as a positive portent for the talks.

A statutory deadline to form a new executive within three weeks of the election falls as the parties fail to agree a basis for re-entering government together.

April

Secretary of State James Brokenshire sets a new deadline  for mid-April. Ironically, given Northern Irelands historic peace agreement, the deadline is Good Friday.

The faltering talks do not even reach Good Friday. With no consensus in sight, and keen to avoid any unfavourable comparisons with the 1998 accord, the process is adjourned for the Easter holidays with no deal.

May

Mr Brokenshire sets a third deadline for mid-May, insisting it will be the last.

The Secretary of State also acts at Westminster to stabilise the finances of the rudderless Stormont administration, passing a law to enable the circulation of rates bills that pay for local council services.

Only a week after the date was set, that deadline goes up in smoke when Theresa May calls a surprise snap general election.

Talks are paused for the duration of the campaign, with yet another new deadline  June 29  emerging.

June

The DUP records a strong electoral showing at the general election, emerging as kingmaker for Mrs Mays minority government.

The main unionist partys parliamentary dalliance with the Tories adds a further complication to powersharing negotiations, with the Government forced to reject claims its impartiality has been undermined.

Talks again flounder, and the June 29 line in the sand is washed away in a tide of political intransigence.

Mr Brokenshire gives the parties another few days to settle their differences, setting July 3 as the latest cut-off point.

July

July 3 comes and goes. Mr Brokenshire says he will reflect on the Governments next steps as the talks are effectively put in cold storage over the summer marching season.

October

Yet another deadline is pencilled in by Mr Brokenshire  October 29.

Talks resume in a process largely confined to engagement between the two main parties. Stormonts smaller parties claim they are being kept in the dark.

Despite reports of some movement on the key stumbling blocks, a deal does not materialise.

November

In a significant step towards direct rule, Mr Brokenshire sets Stormonts 2017/18 budget at Westminster.

Gerry Adams announces he is to step down as Sinn Fein president.

The RHI inquiry commences oral hearings at Stormont.

January

Sinn Fein finds itself on the back foot after one of its MPs is forced to quit after posting a video on social media of him wearing a Kingsmill branded loaf on his head on the anniversary of the 1976 Kingsmill massacre.

Mr Brokenshire leaves the government due to ill health. Former culture secretary Karen Bradley takes over at the Northern Ireland Office.

Mrs Bradley announces a new round of all-party talks. Clearly wary of the D word, she earmarks February 7 as a milestone rather than a deadline.

February

Mrs Bradleys milestone passes without any outward sign of progress. However, more positive noises start to emerge from the corridors of Stormont, with speculation that the DUP and Sinn Fein are inching towards a deal.

Mary Lou McDonald is formally elected the new Sinn Fein president. Mrs ONeill becomes vice president.

Mrs May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announce they are travelling to Stormont on what is the 400th day of the crisis amid growing expectation a deal could be close.'Analysts - and businesses here exporting into the UK market - will be watching for any further movements.' Photo: PA

The pound may continue to be hobbled by Brexit this week, as concerns over reaching a transition deal outweigh the hawkish stance of the Bank of England.

Sterling had its worst five days since October last week, after a brief boost from the central bank, as the European Union's chief negotiator Michel Barnier said a Brexit transition deal was not a given.

The prospect of a two-year transition period had driven sterling above $1.40 (1.14) in January, and comments by the UK government are likely to command investor attention as just one month remains until a deadline to agree it before an EU summit.

UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson is reported to be planning a Brexit speech on Wednesday and Prime Minister Theresa May is to deliver one in Munich on Saturday.

Mrs May is said to be telling her team to aim high, yet Mr Barnier suggested a deal may not be agreed until later in the year.

Analysts - and businesses here exporting into the UK market - will be watching for any further movements.

Pound upside is limited "at least for now", said Thu Lan Nguyen, a currency strategist at Commerzbank.Decembers deal to avoid a hard border stands and the preferred option to secure that is through a comprehensive free trade deal, the Taoiseach has said.

Leo Varadkar said the tricky part of the December deal is and always was going to be delivering on the commitment to avoid a hard border.

It comes just days after the EUs chief Brexit negotiator reiterated that a UK exit from the single market and customs union would leave border checks unavoidable.

Mr Varadkar said the two goverments have now agreed to cooperate at official level to work out how the commitments given in December to avoid a hard border can be translated into reality.

Both the British government and the Irish government are very much of the view that the agreement that was made back in December stands, and that we both prefer option A as the best option by which we can avoid a hard border in Ireland and that is through a comprehensive free trade and customs agreement involving Britain and Ireland, Mr Varadkar said.

That is the best way we an avoid any new barriers north and south and east and west and we have agreed to work together at official level to see if we can explore solutions as to how that can be achieved over the coming weeks and months.

Mr Varadkar was speaking at Stormont after meeting with Prime Minister Theresa May. Both leaders were in Belfast amid expectations that a deal to restore power-sharing in Northern Ireland is close.

The Taoiseach said Decembers deal ensures the protection of the common travel area and the protection of joint citizens rights between Ireland and Britain, and the protection of peace funding.

All that is absolutely bullet proof. The tricky part is and always was going to be how we deliver on the commitment to avoid a hard border, he said.

The objective of Decembers deal is to reach a new UK-EU relationship - but if this doesnt occur, then the UK will come up with specific solutions.

A final element was added at the request of the Irish Government, which essentially states that if no final deal can be done, the UK will maintain full alignment with the EU rules required to ensure that north-south co-operation in terms of trade, regulations and standards, can continue.

Mr Varadkar said it was the view of both the British and Irish Governments that the preferred option was not the final element.

Meanwhile, Mrs May urged the DUP and Sinn Fein to make a final push to strike a deal to restore power sharing.

Mrs May said there was a basis for an agreement. She met both parties. The Taoiseach also held party meetings, but did not meet the DUP.

Foreign Affairs Mnister Simon Coveney said people shouldnt read too much into the fact that the Government did not meet with the DUP. Tensions between the DUP and government have been strained by Brexit.

The North has been without a powersaring administartion for more than a year, with Sinn Feins demand for an Irish language Act the main stumbling block to date. It has been speculated that a deal could be on the cards, however.

Mrs May said the DUP and Sinn Fein have been working hard to close the remaining gaps.

Some differences remain but I think there is the basis of an agreement here and I have been urging the parties to make one final push for the people of Northern Ireland, she said.

Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald said: We believe that we are close to an agreement which, certainly, we can put to our grassroots and to the community as a whole.

She said we are not exactly there just yet, but added: there is nothing insurmountable if there is the political will to reach an agreement.

DUP leader Arlene Foster said good progress has been made.Taoiseach Leo Varadkar intends to nominate former Ulster Farmers' Union president Ian Marshall to Seanad Eireann, the Sunday Independent has learnt.

Mr Marshall, from the unionist tradition, said in 2016 there was "no compelling argument" for the UK to leave the European Union.

Government sources maintain Mr Varadkar "would like to have a voice in the Seanad from a unionist background." His nomination, if successful, may help repair relations with the DUP. However, it seems more likely that Mr Marshall's nomination relates to his position on Brexit.

He is on record as stating Brexit is causing splits within families in Northern Ireland because people were approaching the issue from the perspective both of their "heads and with their hearts". "Husbands and wives are completely opposed," Mr Marshall has said, stating that one partner may believe staying in Europe guarantees an element of market security while the other may be worried about losing their UK identity.

Mr Marshall also told the House of Commons Northern Ireland Affairs Committee two years ago that the UK may be an important trading partner when it came to farming exports, but there was nothing to stop the remaining EU27 member states 'trying to fill the food gap' when the UK left the EU. Northern Ireland farmers were "not completely dependent on the UK for their survival," he has said.

Yesterday a Government source said Mr Varadkar and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney had met with Mr Marshall and the former Ulster farmers' leader was "interested" in taking a seat in the Seanad.

A by-election is to take place shortly to replace Denis Landy, a Labour Senator who has resigned for health reasons. He was elected to the Agriculture Panel in 2016.

Government sources said the Taoiseach intended to seek cross-party support for Mr Marshall's nomination.Almost two-thirds of exports from Ireland's prepared consumer foods (PCF) sector goes to the UK, and any new barriers to trade will damage the country's food industry, a report warns.

Food Drink Ireland (FDI), the Ibec group that represents the food industry, said the full implementation of the December Brexit deal was vital to protect complex all-island supply chains.

It warned that the deal needs to be put into a binding legal contract, and that there can be no "backsliding" on clearly agreed commitments.

A new report - 'Brexit: the Challenge for Prepared Consumer Foods' - found that the post-Brexit trading relationship between the UK and EU will be enormously important for the PCF sector in Ireland, both in terms of exports and the domestic market.

"If the UK insists on leaving a customs union with the EU it will result in a significant disruption to trade," said FDI director of prepared consumer foods Kevin McPartlan.

"While the December deal should protect all-island supply chains, new barriers to east-west trade with Britain would be a major blow to the Irish food industry.

"Prepared consumer food companies are particularly exposed.

"The gross output of the Irish PCF sector is 4.5bn, and 2.5bn of that is exported, 65pc of all PCF exports are to the UK."

The report identifies four key priorities for the sector as negotiations progress to phase two.

These include free and unfettered access to the UK market for Irish business, as well as an agreement that takes account of the special case of the all-island economy.

It also calls for transitional agreements of sufficient length for businesses to plan and prepare for any new free trade agreement.

In addition, it said any arrangements to deal with the Border should ensure strict adherence to EU regulations and EU customs duties for all products, in particular from third countries.

"Prepared consumer food companies are the life-blood of the Irish economy.

"They directly employ over 20,000 people and support the employment of many thousands more," added Mr McPartlan.The corporate logo of Bayer is seen at the headquarters building in Caracas March 1, 2016. Picture taken March 1, 2016. REUTERS/Marco Bello/File Photo T

Bayer needs to ensure that a merger with rival Monsanto does not stifle competition in digital farming, the European Unions Competition Commissioner Margrethe Verstager told a German newspaper on Saturday.

Bayers $63.5 billion takeover of U.S. Monsanto, announced in 2016, is set to create the worlds largest seeds and pesticides company.

Digitalisation is radically changing farming. We need to beware that through the merger, competition in the area of digital farming and research is not impaired, Verstager told Germanys Rheinische Post.

A Danish politician who is serving as Europes top anti-trust watchdog, Verstager told the paper the European Commissions role was not to block mergers, but to ensure they are structured in a way which does not hinder competition.

It is our task to ensure that farmers still have a choice over seeds, pesticides, fungicides and insecticides even after the merger, Verstager told the paper, adding that the Commission plans to publish its antitrust verdict by April 5.

Verstager said that Bayer was being cooperative with the competition watchdogs, a factor that would help the Commission keep to the April 5 deadline.

Reuters on Thursday reported that Bayer plans to sell its global vegetable seeds business and allow rival BASF access its digital farming data to address EU antitrust concerns, citing people close to the matter.Negotiators for the European Union and Latin American bloc Mercosur have concluded two weeks of talks in Brussels on a free trade deal with no clear breakthrough and no formal offers made.

The two sides negotiating teams have agreed to continue discussions in Asuncion, Paraguay, in the week beginning February 19, a Commission spokesman said on Friday.

There is still some work to be done, he told a Commission news conference.

The EU signaled last week that it could open up its market to more beef from Mercosur countries Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, raising its potential offer for beef access to 99,000t per year from a previous 70,000t, people close to the talks said.

The people said it was not clear how the tonnage would be split, such as between more expensive chilled and cheaper frozen meat, and whether tariffs would still apply.

Beef has been a key demand for the Mercosur countries, but a concern for EU farming nations such as Ireland and France.

We are very watchful, French Agriculture Minister Stephane Travert told French lawmakers on January 31, saying the amount of beef offered should be kept to a minimum.

A European Commission source said there was still some ground to cover.

For the EU, key issues are market opening for cars and car parts and dairy products, access for European companies to public tenders and maritime services, as well as protection of food and drink names, such as champagne or Parma ham, which the EU says can only be used for products made in particular areas.

In terms of tariff reduction, it could be the EUs most lucrative trade deal to date, with the savings potentially three times greater than for deals with Canada and Japan combined.

A Mercosur source said Latin American negotiators had also signaled some willingness to move towards meeting EU demands, without making formal offers.

Both sides have a clearer idea of how much they can get in this deal, the source said. There is some expectation that we can nail this, but it depends on the political decision-makers.The first Irish farmer to ever feature in a television ad for McDonalds is hopeful his children can one day take over the farm and continue the supplying beef despite threats to the suckler sector.

Father of four Liam Delaney(40) fronted an advertising campaign which highlighted the use of Quality Assured Irish beef in McDonalds burgers.

His family have been producing beef for generations but Mr Delaney is beginning to worry about the viability of suckler farming in Ireland.

He has an 80 cow suckler herd and brings all the progeny to beef on the 160 acre farm in Portlaoise, Co Laois, where he also rents a further 50 acres and grows around 70 acres of cereal.

With a passion for farming, he recalled as a child, from day one I would come home from school and I couldt wait to drop the bag and run out to the farm.

Mr Delaney runs the farm with his 70 year-old father Jim who farmed there with his father before that. As the family has supplied Dawn Meats for 30 years, and won Overall Bord Bia Quality Assurance Beef Producer Award in 2006, Mr Delaney was approached and asked would he consider taking part in the McDonalds ad.

Never before that was there an ad made with an actual farmer, he explained. He said the age profile in beef farmers is not so good, so Dawn Meats approached me and asked was I interested.

Having grown up with a love for suckler farming, Mr Delaney is hopeful that his sons James(10) and Harry(8) and daughters Kate(5) and Sadie(1), will share his love of farming and one day take over.

His wife Brenda works a good distance from the farm and Mr Delaney is thankful that his parents are there to help out with both the child minding and farming, something he says is common on a lot of farms.

On an average day, Brenda is gone to work by 7.30am and Mr Delaney gets up and with the children, prepares lunches and gets the kids to school before returning to the yard for around 9am, where he joins his father on the farm.

Aside from tending to the suckler herd, Mr Delaney also grows barley, with some being supplied to Heineken through Glanbia.

Mr Delaney is concerned about the number of major challenges facing the suckler sector at present.

The beef industry over the years has always been a volatile sort of industry and always had problems along the way but never before with so many things coming at us, he remarked in relation to Brexit, Mercosur and the renegotiation of CAP.

Brexit remains a major concern for Mr Delaney, who said 50% of our beef is exported to Britain and thats our bread and butter.

He is yet to be convinced that the Chinese or other markets is going compensating for the impact of Brexit but he admitted, at the end of the day no-one really knows what will happen.

He pointed out that beef farmers are 100% reliant on subsidies and are vulnerable to market changes.

We are completely dependant on the price we get on the day, he explained. He questioned the practice of processors reducing the prices when supply is high and claimed that wouldnt be tolerated in dairy.

Mr Delaney also took issue the way the quality assurance schemes is used by factories and said, if your farm is quality assured everything out of it should be quality assured and get paid on that.

He said this isnt happening at the moment and farmers cannot tell whether the animal will qualify until it has been slaughtered.

Mr Delaney said most suckler farmers prefer a straight-forward simple lifestyle. None of us want to be millionaires, Mr Delaney remarked.

However, he has noticed that the age profile of suckler farmers rising and he notices far fewer of his generation in suckler farming now. I wonder in 20 years time what its going to be like, he commented.

In terms of the future for the suckler sector with Brexit, Mercosur and CAP, Mr Delaney said there is so much riding on the next couple of months and the next year that its hard to know what the future holds.

He isnt ruling out the prospect of changing sector, possibly to dairy because "you have to pay the bills at the end of the day," but says he wants to stay in suckler farming.

Of course I would like to keep the tradition going but only if it is sustainable, he remarked. Mr Delaney said I would like to hand it on in a situation that it would be a viable in the future but with the beef that would be hard to see.

He sought reassurances on the future of the sector at a Fine Gael Brexit meeting in Laois last week. We are on a cliff edge at the minute between Brexit, the Mercosur and the CAP, if we dont get a good deal there, he told the meeting, whose attendees included Tanaiste Simon Coveney and Fine Gael MEP and Vice President of the European Parliament, Mairead McGuinness.

It cannot get any worse for us, beef farmers are haemorrhaging every day of the week. They are gone, they are either gone to dairy or they are old and theyre in graveyards. For the likes of me that loves what I am doing, every euro that comes into our yard creates 4 spent in the local economy, the tyre man, the diesel man, I could go on all night.

Those rural communities are being supported by suckler farmers, he explained. We are on a cliff edge at the moment and we are not gone into Brexit yet, Mr Delaney remarked.

Whats the government in Europe or in this country going to do, are they just going to wait till we fall off an drown or is there a plan in place for us, he asked, adding, coming from tonights meeting its very hard to be positive and Id always be positive. Mr Delaney asked is there anything positive coming from the government as a young beef farmer hoping to go into the future and pass it on to the next generation like my parents done before me?Concessions in trade talks to allow a larger influx of South American meat products into Europe would have "disastrous consequences" for the Irish beef industry on top of the "massive uncertainty" over Brexit.

The warning was made to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar as talks continue between Brussels and the 'Mercosur countries' of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay on a free trade deal.

The ongoing negotiations come amid fears the Irish agri-food industry will bear the brunt of a hard Brexit.

The Cabinet's Brexit sub-committee will tonight discuss a stark impact study which estimates as many as 12,400 job losses in the sector under one scenario.

Correspondence released to the Irish Independent shows that Meat Industry Ireland (MII) wrote to Mr Varadkar at the end of November outlining the two-prong threat of Mercosur and Brexit.

Chairman Phillip Carroll stressed MII's strong objection to further concession on beef access to the EU beyond "an already excessive quota of 70,000 tonnes".

He argued it isn't the time for an EU-Mercosur trade deal that would result in extra beef imports into Europe given the "massive uncertainty created by Brexit and the clear negative implications of the UK exit from the EU for the Irish beef sector".

He said the beef industry is "the most exposed to Brexit fallout" and Ireland, as the largest exporter of beef to the European market, would be worst hit by an increased volume of South American beef entering the EU.

Mr Carroll said MII was calling on the Government to ensure that further concessions on beef imports are not made by the European Commission as this would have "disastrous consequences" for the Irish cattle and beef sector.

Last night, MII director Cormac Healy said the Mercosur deal and Brexit amount to a "double whammy" in their potential impact on the meat industry.

He urged the Government to continue to highlight Irish concerns at European level.

A spokesman for Mr Varadkar said the Government remains committed to a "balanced trade deal" with the Mercosur countries.

Any deal needs to take account of "key concerns" such as those of Ireland relating to beef. "70,000 tonnes of beef represents a fair and reasonable proposition," he added.

He said Mr Varadkar has made this position clear with the Argentinian president and European Commission in discussions in recent weeks.

Ministers will today discuss a separate Brexit impact study carried out by consultants Copenhagen Economics. The report warns that overall 20,000 jobs could be lost across five different sectors in the case of a hard Brexit.

Business Minister Heather Humphreys has said the Government is "acutely aware" of the exposure of some industries to Brexit.

She said 40pc of low interest loans to be made available under a 300m Brexit scheme will be for the agri-food sector.A review of the Department of Agriculture's appeals model has recommended that it does not need a restructuring, but does make a number of other recommendations.

The Committee found that Appeals Officers are not bound by their attachment to the Department in the determination of appeal outcomes and on this basis, therefore a fundamental restructuring of the appeals model is not warranted.

Today's report found that the evidence would suggest that Appeals Officers do act independently of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. There are, however, mechanisms where the operation of the Appeals Office can provide for greater transparency and ways to increase the perception that the Appeals Office is independent from the Department.

It is noted that in the context of the Department processing approximately 350,000 applications for payment from farmers annually, the number of appeals made by claimants is extremely low  at 0.18pc.

It said this illustrates a level of satisfaction by the majority of farmers with the service that is provided by the Department in processing applications for payment.

However, the Committee considers that the level of appeals is also impacted by an element of a lack of awareness among the farming public of the review and appeal processes open to farmers, who are dissatisfied with the decisions made in their cases.

It also found that the Departments review process is not uniform across all scheme areas and said that there is scope for standardisation of processes and for providing a much clearer explanation to farmers as to the pathway through the review and appeal mechanisms.

It recommended the introduction of an independent Agriculture Appeals Review Panel, where reviews of the decisions of Appeals Officers are sought, will considerably strengthen its procedures and underpin public confidence in the operation of the Office.

The Committee recommends that the period within which a revision can be sought is six months from the date of decision by the Appeals Officer.

It also said that it does not consider that a fee structure is appropriate for an initial appeal to an Appeals Officer. However, the Committee considers that a fee is appropriate for progression of an appeal to the second tier, the independent Agriculture Review Panel, which would be set by the Panel

The average number of days for the processing of appeals with the Appeals Office is considered too long and it is a matter that should be considered by the Office and it recommended that there is a need for the introduction of deadlines for the processing of reviews received from claimants following the issue of findings/decisions.

Disadvantaged Areas Scheme/Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme had the longest wait  on average 77 days in 2016, compared to 26 days for AEOS.

The Review Committee consisted of three members Niamh ODonoghue, former Secretary General, Department of Social Protection (Chair); Padraig Gibbons, farmer, former chairman of Connacht Gold and former President of the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS); and Paud Evans, former Principal Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.Irish professionals were last year feeling less 'successful' despite describing themselves as more 'experienced', according to new data.

In an analysis of its Irish members, the professional network site LinkedIn found that the word successful had dropped out of the top ten buzzwords on user profiles, while the word experienced topped the list.

In order to help understand the change in language, and other findings from the data, LinkedIn partnered with socio-linguistic expert Professor Rodney Jones from Reading University to explain what the changes mean for jobseekers today.

Professor Jones analysis revealed that the terms used by Irish professionals reflect a global trend in how the public responds to the fake news trend and economic uncertainty.

'Expert' re-enters the top 10, while 'specialised' was in second place in 2017, as professionals look to verify their expertise.

"This type of language can be viewed as a wider comment on how society is searching for accountability and verifiability; in part a reaction to the increasing focus on fake news surrounding the 2016 US presidential election and the Brexit referendum," Professor Jones said.

"Where once there was a focus on branding ones own authenticity, economic uncertainty means authenticity is no longer important, its about verifiability."

LinkedIns top 10 Buzzwords among its Irish members profiles for the past year are:

1. Experienced

2. Specialised

3. Skilled

4. Motivated

5. Leadership

6. Excellent

7. Passionate

8. Focused

9. Driven

10. Expert

The Buzzwords data also reveals an increased use of leadership in recent years, maintaining a presence in the top five Irish Buzzwords.

"Companies are becoming less hierarchical - even junior members are expected to demonstrate leadership," Professor Jones said.

"In contrast, 'organised' fell out of the top 10 after 2015 as professionals search to demonstrate management capabilities over more functional attributes."The German ambassador to Ireland has warned the two nations' differing stances regarding tax harmonisation will inevitably come to a head this year.

It is a recurring bone of contention among the bigger EU member states and smaller ones like Ireland whose selling point for foreign direct investment is led by attractive tax relief.

"Tax absolutely is an issue," newly appointed German ambassador Deike Potzel told the Irish Independent.

"We cannot have major tech giants profiting from infrastructure and sales from European taxpayers and routing their tax in Ireland.

"We are very much in favour of tax harmonisation, as is the German public," she said.

With the Irish Government willing to move on tax but through the OECD system as opposed to through the EU, Ms Potze said: "We know that they [the Irish Government] have a completely different take than we do, but that is something that the EU 27 will debate in Brussels.

"France and Germany are basically on the same page on this issue and it's something that just needs to be figured out.

"It'll probably be a few more encounters before the issue is resolved, but there is no doubt that it will come to a head this year."

During her tenure, the new ambassador is determined to dispel some of the stereotypes Irish people have about Germans.

People "always have the idea that we are very stern, punctual and disciplined and, really, yes we are but there's also a different side to us - we can be really funny", she said.

Part of her mission is to inform Irish people about Germany and move away from the criticism that's been levelled at the German government over EU-wide austerity measures in recent years.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and former finance minister Wolfgang Shauble have been regular targets of frustration by Irish voters over the rigid and penurious bailout Ireland agreed to back in 2010.

If Ireland was the poster boy for austerity, Mr Schauble was the poster boy for fiscal rectitude.

"A lot of people said 'yes, one should have handled certain things differently' and that's good as we learn from these cases but I think it's really, really important to reflect on what was the situation back then," said Ms Potzel.

German taxpayers had funded much of the bailouts given to countries like Ireland, Greece and Portugal.

The population in Germany needed to be assured the money had strict constitutionality applied to it.

Moreover, German citizens had gone through the same pain in the 1990s, albeit self-imposed, she said.

A particularly gloomy economic outlook and sluggish GDP led Germany to be characterised as the "sick man of the euro area".

Years of intense belt-tightening were introduced to transform its economy into the European motor it is now.

"We took really hard measures to get out of that situation and you also have to see what is explainable to our public," she told the Irish Independent.

Peace

"We are not the only ones to make the decisions - that is a really important point."

Sometimes people tend to forget there are 27 others at the table creating EU policy, she added.

Ms Potzel grew up in East Germany - a harsh and limiting environment which partly motivates her unwavering commitment to the European project as a guarantor of peace among its nations.

"We tend to forget that the EU is a peace project - that sounds naive, but it is," she said.

"Look at the Good Friday Agreement - an essential part of it working was because both [nations] were in the EU."

When the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, one of the first places she visited was Ireland.

"Suddenly, the world was open to us and there were suddenly so many opportunities that we didn't have," she recalled.

"I saw the wonderful chances ahead and I tried to grasp them; me and my now husband took a trip around Europe. We ended up spending five days in Spiddal in Galway because we liked it so much."

She proudly stands beside a water feature - gifted by former German president Roman Herzog to Ireland - on the east side of St Stephen's Green.

It was in gratitude for "help given to German children by the Irish people after World War II".

And she added: "I chose to come here also because I want to be of help during Brexit."'As the Trump administration blames globalisation for pummelling the middle classes, the Maersk CEO says it's clear other regions are emerging as economic powerhouses.' Photo: Getty

The chief executive officer of the world's biggest shipping company says curbs on immigration backed by the administration of US President Donald Trump risk hurting the American economy.

"The US economy is running at full steam and therefore wages have started to rise," which "in itself is positive" said Soren Skou, the CEO of Moller-Maersk.

"But if the US succeeds in cutting off immigration, it will be very challenging to keep the economy going at the same pace."

Running a company that transports goods around the world puts Mr Skou in a unique position to observe how a wave of protectionism is reshaping the global trade map.

As the Trump administration blames globalisation for pummelling the middle classes, the Maersk CEO says it's clear other regions are emerging as economic powerhouses.

"My personal belief is that Europe has more potential," Mr Skou said.

"There are parts of Europe with a lot of potential if they make reforms that strengthen their labour markets and seize the opportunities that arise from digitisation.

"If the political situation can be kept under control, I think Europe has some good years ahead."

Maersk transported 10.7 million 40-foot containers last year, an increase of 3pc from 2016.

The company's fleet of almost 800 vessels controls about a fifth of the world's seaborne trade, according to industry consultant Alphaliner.

When it comes to the longer term, Mr Skou said Maersk is "positive" on Africa and Latin America. "That's why we've invested a lot in those two regions," he said. (Bloomberg)Though set mainly in Dublin and California, the terrible shadow of Sarajevo and the siege that lasted for almost four years, from the spring of 1992, hangs over the narrative of this first novel by a young Irish writer based in New York. In tandem is the story of a young man's suicide, narrated by his brother, Karl.

In Dublin, Karl and his friend Barry ('Baz') mourn Gabriel's suicide. Their friend, Tom, meanwhile has gone to Sarajevo, ostensibly - and improbably - to work as a journalist, though he has no training or experience. He was, muses Karl, "the sort of fella who'd list off body counts from Central American combat zones ..." He has an almost morbid fascination with the world's trouble spots and Sarajevo, the shattered Bosnian capital, is his target, although he has no accreditation from any media operation.

Now his two friends are waiting at Dublin Airport, to meet the deeply traumatised Tom who arrives "as a charcoal-grey ghost" wearing an eye patch. He is largely uncommunicative, even when they take him home to his wan, melancholy mother.

The story is related in alternating chapters: the friends in Dublin; later Baz and Karl in California, where they take Tom to an unconventional sanatorium (the Restless Souls of the title); and terse, shorter chapters from Tom's experiences in the hell of Sarajevo.

The latter chapters work better than those set in Dublin. The Sarajevo sections carry conviction as they explore the horror of the siege and the plight of the trapped people. One could cavil, though, and wonder how Tom can afford to stay in the Holiday Inn though he has no apparent income - the journalistic aspiration having expired at an early stage.

But Dan Sheehan's research into the Bosnian situation in that shameful war carries the ring of authenticity. And the style in which the Sarajevo sections are written is infinitely more satisfactory than the Dublin chapters. There we get laddish slagging and pint-drinking, couched in prose that is facetious and sometimes glib; old-fashioned too, in a Catcher-in-the-Rye kind of way. And the "lads" are curiously lacking in context: they don't seem to work or have any aspiration to attempt gainful employment, though there is a half-hearted attempt to suggest that Karl has acquired some skill as a photographer.

There are well-done passages concerning Karl and Gabriel, their alcoholic mother and their fond memories of their foster parents; enjoyable passages, too, set in a Gaeltacht college where to utter a word of English means expulsion and to steal the headmaster's whiskey is definitely a high-risk venture. They are there, needless to say, to pursue "birds" rather than to gain proficiency in the kingly and melodious Gaelic. (Could some bright spark write a thesis on the place of the Gaelic Summer College in Irish fiction, starting with Benedict Kiely's 1946 novel Land Without Stars?)

Restless Souls is an uneven book that could have profited from stern pruning and ruthless excising of the more painful smart-ass dialogue. In its structure, though, it is ambitious and often effective. And even moving at times.

Karl and Baz finally get Tom to the American clinic, pausing on the way for an idyllic break in a camp with some amiably welcoming hippies. Readers hoping for a cathartic ending with lots of 21st century sturm und drang will be disappointed; the conclusion is protracted and sentimental.

A novel with many good points, though the frenetic over-writing weakens its impact.Model Alannah Beirne and Kai Widdrington during the Switch Up Live show of RTEs Dancing with the Stars. kobpix/NO FEE for repro.

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Former Cork Camogie Player and Broadcaster Anna Geary and Ryan McShane, during the Switch Up Live show of RTEs Dancing with the Stars

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There was Latin fever in the air in Ardmore last night when musician Jake Carter and Valeria Milova performed a sultry samba.

Sporting an open, tropical shirt that showed off his tanned six-pack, the Liverpudlian pop star wowed both the audience and the judges with the steamy Brazilian dance with partner Valeria.

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The pair were awarded an impressive 24 points by the judges, who all gave the dancers a score of eight points in what judge Julian Benson described as "one super sexy switch-up samba".

"We got nice bounce action. You shined on the floor tonight," he said.

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Judge Lorraine Barry was equally impressed.

"Everyone knows the samba is a difficult dance," she said.

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The remaining eight celebrities swapped their usual dance partners in what host Amanda Byram called 'a whole new ball game in the ballroom'.

The sixth episode of the series saw the dancers trade places with their professional dance partners to take them out of their comfort zone and attempt new moves in just a week.

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As a result, there was no elimination vote last night.

The show kicked off with a high-octane group dance featuring the celebrities and their partners dancing to 'Don't Leave Me This Way' by The Communards.

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Several of the dancers expressed their loyalty to their former partners - despite some impressive new couplings.

"It was a different week, but Valeria's a great dancer," said Jake

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He added: "I still love Karen...I can't wait to get back to her."

The switch up also worked for model Alannah Beirne and Kai Widdrington, who also embraced the Argentinian tango amid an array of green laser beams as they danced to 'Green Light' by Lorde.

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The judges gave them a top score of 27 points for what judge Benson said was "a dark, dramatic tango".

Following close behind on the leader board was actress and comedian Deirdre O'Kane, who burned up the dance floor with partner Vitali Kozmin in their 'American smooth' ballroom dance to Kate Bush's 'Wuthering Heights'.

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O'Kane's acting skills were evident in her excellent characterisation during her performance, according to judge Brian Redmond.

Judge Benson also showered the pair with praise.

"Never mind .Wuthering Heights'. Tonight you reached new heights," he said.

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Die-hard GAA correspondent Marty Morrissey was lauded for his solid 'attempt' at a jive with partner Emily Barker, as the pair bobbed to Elton John's 'Crocodile Rock' after bizarrely emerging from a canoe dressed in scout uniforms.

According to Lorraine Barry, Morrissey's performance "missed a bit here and there".

"But I feel you seized the moment," she said.

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"A gold star for your effort," she added.

Despite the Valentine's Day-themed performance by athlete Rob Heffernan and Ksenia Zsikhotska, the judges failed to fall for their quickstep to Gregory Porter's 'L-O-V-E', which netted the pair just 16 points.

"I was expecting quite a lot for this," said judge Brian Redmond.

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"I did like it....but I didn't L-O-V-E it," he said.Counsel said Amnesty told SIPO the donation was not for political purposes. Stock image

Amnesty International's Irish section has brought a High Court challenge against a Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) order that it return a Swiss based foundation's donation of 137,000 for a campaign to increase support for a referendum to repeal the 8th Amendment to the Constitution.

The donation was made in August 2015 by the Open Society Foundations (OSF), a body founded by businessman George Soros, for the Irish based strand of Amnesty's international "My Body, Mr Rights" campaign.

The objectives of the campaign included increasing support among politicians for the holding of a referendum on the Eighth Amendment and provide a human rights compliant abortion framework.

The campaign included lobbying politicians, organising events and seminars for politicians prior to the 2016 General Election aimed at having the 8th Amendment appealed.

Last November, SIPO directed Amnesty to return the donation as it found it was prohibited under Section 23 A2 of the 1997 Electoral Act and having deemed it to be a donation for political purposes.

Amnesty denies the funds were used for political purposes and says SIPO's decision is flawed, and should be set aside.

As a result, Amnesty International Irish Section has brought proceedings against both SIPO, Ireland and the Attorney General where it seeks to quash SIPO's decision.

It also seeks several declarations including that SIPO has acted in error of law, in excess of its jurisdiction, misdirected itself as to the interpretation of the Electoral Act, has failed to give adequate reasons for its decision, and has acted irrationally and unreasonably.

It further seeks declarations that it should not have to repay the monies, that SIPO has breached both Articles 40. 3 and 43 of the Irish Constitution, the European Convention on Human Rights and EU law.

On Monday Brian Murray SC, for Amnesty, said the challenge raises many complex legal issues concerning the interpretation of the Electoral Act.

"Amnesty and other NGO's are extremely concerned about the implications of the decision," counsel said.

Counsel said the purpose of the donation was to fund Amnesty's 2016 campaign whose purpose included to increase public support for repealing the 8th Amendment, collaborate with other groups working on access to safe and legal abortion.

No referendum on the amendment was planned or had been called when the donation was made, counsel said.

Counsel said in 2016 media reports on leaked documents from OPF suggested that the funding was part of a strategy to force the repeal of the 8th Amendment. SIPO then wrote to Amnesty referring to obligations under the Electoral Act.

Counsel said Amnesty told SIPO the donation was not for political purposes.

However, SIPO said received information and confirmation from the foreign donor that the monies were for explicitly political purposes.

Amnesty fears the matter could be referred to the Garda, leading to a possible criminal prosecution, if if does not not return the monies.

It also fears reputational damage and financial hardship as Amnesty does not have any significant reserves. The return of the monies would have to come out of its current budget for 2018, counsel added.

Permission to bring the challenge was granted, on an ex-parte (one side only represented) basis, by Mr Justice Seamus Noonan. The matter comes back to court in April.A Dublin man has been sentenced to four years in jail for leading gardai on a high-speed chase, reversing into a garda sergeant and holding a large quantity of drugs.

Andrew Dunne (33) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possessing almost 110,000 worth of heroin, cocaine and cannabis at his home on Kilworth Rd, Drimnagh on July 7, 2016.

Dunne further admitted to two counts of endangering gardai on August 7, 2016 at a time when his defence counsel said he was suffering from intense levels of fear and paranoia.

Passing sentence today, Judge Martin Nolan described Dunne as a good family man and a good father who was unlikely to re-offend.

The judge said he had received a large amount of letters in Dunne's favour and that a lot of people have good things to say about him, but that nonetheless he had put a lot of people at grave risk.

His driving was reckless and grossly irresponsible. He drove at the guards; he put a lot of people in danger, added Judge Nolan, who also disqualified Dunne from driving for six years.

Garda Stephen Connor told Maurice Coffey BL, prosecuting, that Dunne was intoxicated on drugs when a search was carried out at the home he shares with his wife and children in July 2016.

Dunne directed gardai to a quantity of heroin worth 93,520 in the master bedroom of the house and cocaine valued at 6,720 elsewhere. A further 9,160 of cannabis was discovered in the kitchen, bringing the total value of drugs to 109,400.

Gda Connor agreed with Giollaiosa O Lidheadha SC, defending, that Dunne was under serious threat at the time due to a drug debt and that he was holding the drugs rather than selling them.

He was at the bottom rung of the ladder; a pawn, said Mr O Lidheada, adding that Dunne was in a heightened state of paranoia and fear at the time.

Sergeant Niall Bright told the court that about a month after the drugs offence, Dunne was driving his silver Volvo when he was stopped by gardai in Tallaght.

When gardai got out of their patrol car and began to walk towards his car, Dunne accelerated and drove off, beginning a high-speed chase that would lead several garda cars to Rathcoole, back over the N7 bridge and back into the southside of the city, ending up in a residential area of Drimnagh.

The court heard that Dunne broke several red lights, in particular one at the Kylemore Road at a speed of 120kmph in a 60kmph speed limit.

At other times, Dunne was drove at speeds of 210kmph in 60kmph zones, crossed continuous white lines, narrowly missed collisions with motorists and forced other cars to pull up so he could get past.

At one point, Sgt John Collins deployed a stinger device and Dunne stopped his car. However, when the sergeant went to open Dunne's door, Dunne reversed at speed momentarily dragging the sergeant and causing him to tumble to the ground.

Dunne then reverse-rammed a BMW garda car, rammed a second garda car, mounted a footpath and drove at speed towards another garda car which avoided collision by driving on the wrong side of the road.

Dunne escaped onto Dolphin Rd and continued to drive at excessive speeds in residential areas. He later put in a call to gardai reporting that his car had been stolen, but subsequently admitted that he had been driving the car.

The court heard Sgt Collins suffered minor abrasions to his hands and knees.

Dunne has two previous minor convictions for road traffic matters.

Mr O Lidheadha said Dunne was an exemplary father who had very good relationships with his children, particularly with his daughter who has autism.

The court heard that Dunne had a strong work history and had since rehabilitated himself and was drug-free.

Dunne's father wrote a letter to court asking for merciful justice and saying I feel my prodigal son has returned, after his period of offending.

Judge Nolan said it was not necessary to include a suspended period into Dunne's sentence, describing him as a mature man who had got himself into difficulties but was unlikely to re-offend.A FATHER and mother are facing a jail sentence and a fine after a judge heard their child missed at least 243 days of primary school over a three-year period.

The married couple from Dublin were prosecuted by the Child and Family Agency following concerns about the high number of days of school missed by their son whose age was not stated during the hearing at Dublin District Court on Monday.

Neither the mother or father, who moved to the UK near the end of last year, attended the hearing with the father phoning an education and welfare officer shortly before the hearing to tell him that this was a result of his bad back.

The officer told the court that their son missed 72 out of 182 days in the 2014 - 2015 school year, 65 out of 182 days during the 2015 - 2016 year and 106 days in the 2016 - 2017 school year. Only about 20 days could be accounted for, the court was told.

The child had been attending a school in Dublin.

It was their ninth hearing in relation to the boys lengthy absences from school.

The prosecution commenced in January last year and the couple attended the first three hearings only, Judge Brennan heard.

Education and welfare officer Eamon Regan said it was his belief parents were not doing enough to ensure their child went to school. He had attempted to serve school attendances notices in person but there as no answer when he called to their home. There was also no answer on a previous occasion when he attempted to talk to them about the issue.

Afterwards he served the notices by ordinary post, he said. It had been hoped the threat of legal action would improve their sons attendance at school, the court was told.

He said the couple moved to the UK without notifying the school. When he managed to speak to the boys father, the man claimed his son had been enrolled in a named school in England. However, when contacted that school never heard of the boy, Judge Brennan was told.

Authorities in the UK were alerted and have made contact with the parents who are now seeking to home-school the child there, the court heard.

They could be fined up to 1,000 and jailed for a month if convicted of breaking the Education (Welfare) Act for not complying with an official warning to ensure her child went to school.

Judge Brennan was satisfied that prior to the commencement of legal proceedings school attendance notices had been served and they were aware of the court case.

He said the couple had shown contempt for the court by not turning up to the hearing. He said that the court was minded to impose a one-month jail sentence on the father and for the mother to be fined.

He adjourned the case until a date in April and said it would be in their interests to turn up for the next hearing.The scene of Saturday's fire in Tyrrellstown

Gardai have confirmed that they are treating a fire in a Dublin home as an incident of criminal damage.

One person was treated for smoke inhalation after the fire broke out in Tyrellstown on Saturday night after 10pm.

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Three crews from Blanchardstown and Phibsborough stations rushed to the scene.

ESB and Gas Networks Ireland also assisted in the response and the fire was quickly extinguished.

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This afternoon gardai confirmed that officers from Blanchardstown are investigating the incident as one of criminal damage.

Pictures from the scene this morning show extensive smoke damage to the home.

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Whatsapp The scene of Saturday's fire in TyrrellstownVous etes confrontes a une infestation par la puce, la punaise de lit ? Voici plusieurs actions qui sont a mettre en uvre pour faire []Gardai have issued new warnings to 10 associates of Gerry The Monk Hutch that there is an imminent threat to their lives.

Detectives have issued Garda Information Messages to 10 relatives and associates of The Monk, warning them that their lives are in imminent danger.

It is believed they have been urged to apply caution to their every move and not to trust anyone.

A critical threat level, equal only to that which existed in the days after the Regency Hotel attack, has been declared in a 3sq km area of Dublin dubbed Ganglands Ground Zero.

Detectives have upped the danger risk after mob boss Daniel Kinahan made a fresh drive to claim even more Hutch lives from his Middle Eastern base.

Officers believe that Kinahan has assumed the psychology of an irrational dictator and has opened his wallet to anyone who can get close to his targets, providing a new war chest for other gangs who may have scores to settle in the north inner city.

Kinahan is not finished yet, and the threat level is at its highest ever in the area at the moment, a source said.

It has not been so high since the days that followed the Regency Hotel attack.

Kinahan is in exile in Dubai, and he is ruling with fear, according to the source.

Most of his trusted hitmen are now locked up, the source said.

There are only the dregs left who are willing to work for him, but unfortunately they are still dangerous.

We cannot emphasise enough how dangerous the situation is at the moment. Anything could happen.

The north inner city community is being eaten away and it is like a cancer, with neighbours pitched against one another.

To have 10 individuals in such a small area walking around on Garda Information Messages is an indication of how volatile things are.

Six people have been gunned down within Ganglands Ground Zero  the small area between the IFSC and Drumcondra and which takes in Croke Park  since the feud began.

Meanwhile, there were tense scenes in Dublin on Saturday as hitman Jason Buda Molyneux, a Hutch associate, was laid to rest in St Agathas Church on North William Street.

A number or mourners covered their faces as they entered the church. Uniformed gardai and members of the Armed Support Unit were visibly present outside the church.

Buda was shot in the north inner city on January 30.Police in the United Kingdom have appealed for information on two Irish men wanted for questioning in connection with the murder of an 87-year-old man.

Arthur Gumbley was attacked during a burglary at his home in Sutton Coldfield on November 21 and he later died in hospital.

The two men wanted for questioning were named by police as Tom Joseph Ward (17) and Michael Connors (28).

UK Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to 10,000 (11,200) for information on the two men.

Connors is described as 5ft 5'' in height, of average build with an Irish accent.

Ward is 5ft 8'', of average build and also has an Irish accent.

"Following an extensive investigation, we are keen to talk to Jimmy Michael Connors (28) and Tom Joseph Ward (17) about their whereabouts on the day of the incident," a spokesman for Staffordshire Police said.

"If you know these two men pictured, or know of their recent whereabouts, we need your help to track them down."The number of people with life-changing injuries waiting for admission to the National Rehabilitation Hospital has risen sharply. Stock image

The number of people with life-changing injuries waiting for admission to the National Rehabilitation Hospital has risen sharply.

Figures due to be published later this month show 215 people on a waiting list for the hospital last year, compared with 151 people in 2016.

Patients, many of whom are recovering from brain or spinal injuries, or from debilitating strokes, are also waiting longer. More than a third on the list were waiting for more than six months, and one in four for more than 12 months.

The long wait times are exacerbated by some patients having to wait weeks or months for special home care packages to be signed off by the Health Service Executive before they can be discharged, according to the Irish Patients' Association, which obtained the figures.

The 102 bed-hospital in South Dublin said that at any one time, up to eight patients who were ready for discharge could not leave, which left around 8pc of its beds unavailable.

The rising waiting list comes as the Government published its plan last week to develop two major trauma centres in the country, which will increase the demand for specialist rehabilitation beds.

"We are mindful that with the national trauma centre, lives will be saved which in turn will further increase demand for rehabilitation beds.

"If the pressure for beds in 2018 follows the 2017 trend, then the lack of timely access to these expert services will have its impact on these very vulnerable group of patients," said Stephen McMahon, of the Irish Patients' Association.

The existing National Rehabilitation Hospital is due to be replaced with a new 120-bed facility, but Acquired Brain Injury Ireland believes at least 200 beds are needed.

Chief executive Barbara O'Connell said: "Patients waiting in acute hospitals who are not equipped to deal with them can end up with limbs which have contracted which then have to be painfully straightened at a later stage, infections, behavioural challenges and general decline."

She said that while trauma centres were "so welcome", not enough attention was paid to what happened to a trauma patient once their life had been saved.

"No access to proper rehabilitation can be a living death for some and catastrophic for their families too," she added.

The National Rehabilitation Hospital hopes to complete the new 120-bed facility by 2020 and has further plans for a 235-bed facility.An alarm costing just 10,000 would have detected high levels of chlorine in a Meath water supply which left 1,200 people unable to drink from their taps.

Last week, people in south Meath were advised to avoid drinking or washing following reports that young children had been breaking out in rashes.

Irish Water later said up to five-times 'normal' levels of chlorine were added to drinking water due to a mechanical failure.

The utility's managing director, Jerry Grant, said the chlorine monitor and alarm would cost around 10,000.

He said an audit of all small booster systems - which pump chlorine into the water network - was currently under way.

"We've had an issue at Kilcloon in Meath where there was a mechanical failure in terms of the dosing equipment.

"It resulted in higher than normal dosing levels gradually increasing in the system," he said.

"It was a small booster system and it didn't have a chlorine monitor alarm."

Mr Rant added: "We have been going through a national programme of all our sites to put in these monitors, and this site hadn't been got to."

Mr Grant said that following complaints early last week, water samples were taken from the network.

"Levels were significantly above normal, five or six times what we would normally consider sufficient, so we put on a restriction and flushed the system," he added.

"The Environmental Protection Agency has asked us to immediately address the monitoring situation, and we will undertake an audit to catch others that don't have this equipment."

He said a national programme to install alarms and improve disinfection was "nearly finished".

Mr Grant also advised that anyone with health concerns should contact their doctor or HSE for advice.

Homes and businesses in the several areas were affected by the high levels of chlorine released into the supply: Kilcloon, Moygaddy, Killeany, Kilgraigue, Harristown, Brownstown, Ballynare, Butlerstown, Staffordstown, Brownrath, Blackhall Little, Waynestown, Harlockstown and Ballymacoll.Traffic jams on the M50 are causing concern for transport bosses. Photo: Arthur Carron

Transport bosses are preparing to introduce additional tolling points on Dublin's M50 if the Government decides drastic measures are required to tackle congestion.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), which operates the country's busiest motorway, has sought tenders to operate the tolling system from 2019, and operators must be able to collect tolls from a number of locations.

Documents show more than 1bn will have been collected in tolls and late-payment penalties between 2008, when toll barriers were removed, and 2019, when the current tolling contract expires. Some 130,000 vehicles a day currently travel over the tolled section of the 42km road, between junctions 6 and 7.

But growing traffic numbers has resulted in parts of the motorway carrying more vehicles that the road was designed to accommodate.

TII chief executive Michael Nolan last year told the Public Accounts Committee the "main solution" would be "demand management" in the form of multi-point tolling, where vehicles were charged across a number of locations.

But he said it was a matter for Government, which has ruled out the move until public transport services improve.

A TII spokesman said a number of measures were currently under way to manage traffic.

These include the introduction of variable speed limits, where the upper limit falls when traffic volumes are high, coupled with lane controls and real-time traffic information.

They said TII had been instructed not to progress multi-point tolling at this point.

"We've included the provision for multi-point tolling in the event it is required in the future and would therefore not be an additional cost for implementation," the spokesperson said. "This does not mean it is happening. It is in case of future potential to reduce incurring costs."

Freeflow

In January 2006, the National Roads Authority (now TII) announced it planned to remove the toll barrier during a 1bn upgrade of the motorway, making it freeflow.

By 2019, the toll operators will have dealt with payments for more than 420 million trips from four million customers.

Some 60 million customer contacts such as phone calls and emails will have been processed and 40 million letters and account statements issued.

The next contract, which is out for tender and will run for a decade, includes provision to include multi-point tolling if required.

TII suggests this is likely to be implemented to manage demand, as required under the planning permission granted for the upgrade.

"With regard to the options for new free-flow/additional toll points, the contract's provisions are primarily designed to facilitate this option on the M50 motorway," tender documents state.

"The M50 option is currently anticipated to be the most likely option to be implemented (subject to ministerial approval and the statutory approvals process) because it is linked to a provision for a review of demand measures for the motorway within the statutory planning consents for the upgrade scheme for the M50 which was completed in 2010."Children may not be routinely given the TB vaccine BCG, if recommendations by two expert groups are taken on board by the Department of Health, the HSE has said.

It comes as the Health Service Executive (HSE) confirmed that the BCG vaccine stock in all areas expired at the end of April 2015 and the HSE continues to experience ongoing delays with the supply of BCG vaccine.

BCG vaccine is given to protect babies against tuberculosis (TB) and the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC), an independent expert group on immunisation and the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) have both recommended that BCG vaccine does not now need to be given routinely to all babies in Ireland.

The BCG vaccine is given at birth in Ireland, but most European countries do not give a BCG vaccine to all babies, according to the HSE, which confirmed that the vaccine shortage is a Europe wide issue.

The number of cases of TB has been steadily falling in Ireland, it says, and a decision on BCG policy will be made by the Department of Health and based on recommendations received from the NIAC and HIQA, when BCG vaccine is back in stock.

Ireland has had no BCG vaccine since May 2015 and no children have been vaccinated since then, the HSE confirmed.

However, Fianna Fail's Jack Chambers said it was unclear whether the HSE is looking at removing the vaccine as routine due to the limited availability of supplies or medical evidence around its necessity.

Chambers said that European countries where it is not routinely administered do supply it for vulnerable people, including those who are immuno compromised.

"It is unknown why the vaccine is not available. There has been an increase in demand from developing countries, but there is more than one company that makes the vaccine.

"I'm not sure how proactive the HSE has been in following its immunisation schedule, but supply and demand should not determine public health policy."

Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture has said there is no link between the spread of wild deer into south Kerry and the biggest outbreak of bovine TB in living memory in the area.

Dozens of farms are in lockdown and around 360 cattle have been removed from slaughter in an area between Kells and Caherdaniel in Iveragh, and investigations and are contintuing.

The farmers are hoping a trial vaccination programme will be used in the area to combat the spread of TB.Soldiers have won the right to affiliate to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and negotiate their own pay and conditions.

This follows a four-year battle at EU level between the military representative association for enlisted members of the Defence Forces, Pdforra and the Department of Defence.

The powerful European Social Rights Committee has now ruled that while EU governments had powers to impose restrictions on the troops' right to organise, this did not mean they could operate a blanket ban on professional associations like trade unions to affiliate to national confederations.

Pdforra president Mark Keane said this afternoon the findings vindicated the numerous requests submitted by his association to various ministers for defence seeking affiliation to Congress.

He said the committee findings meant the restrictions on their right to organise must not impair that right.

"Suppression for the sake of suppression is not a legitimate aim", he said.

Mr Keane added: "Make no mistake about it, the government fought us every step of the way in respect of this complaint".

Pdforra were supported by the European Organisation of Military Associations.

It is likely that the Defence Acts will have to be changed to accommodate the ruling after it has been formally approved in Europe.

The move comes after a similar ruling in favour of the Garda associations four years ago.

The military associations were up in arms last year after they discovered that the Department of Defence, which was meant to be representing them at the national pay talks, had allowed to be excluded from side deals negotiated with other groups of workers.

The military accused department officials of reneging on an obligation to look after the interests of troops and officers, whose associations could not participate directly at the negotiating table because they did not have trade union status.

The European Social Rights Committe found, however, that the right to strike was incompatible with military service although it noted that the right had been granted to the Austrian and Swedish armed forces.

The Department of Defence welcomed the finding that the ban on the right to strike was not a violation of the European social charter and said the affiliation of military representative associations to Congress would be considered under a current review of the existing conciliation and arbitration scheme.

The review was ordered by minister with responsibility for defence, Paul Kehoe after allegations that it was no longer fit for purpose.A driver smashed through the window of a Toyota showroom in Dublin, crashing into three new vehicles inside when shopping for a new car in Long Mile Road, Dublin.

Toyota Long Mile replied to concerns on Twitter after an image of the incident was posted online, confirming that the drivers foot slipped, the car was automatic, and it was a miracle no one was hurt.

Wow!  Garrett just sent this in to @RaDeeOh A bit of car-nage at @ToyotaLongMile but we hear everyone is ok thank goodness  pic.twitter.com/6Wzfv5LXQC  Radio Nova 100 (@radionova100) February 9, 2018

We thought the building was falling down, said a representative on Twitter.

The showroom on the Long Mile Road, Dublin 12 has glass windows all along the front of the building and has a long car park along the side.

In a statement published this morning Toyota, Long Mile said:

"As many of you may have heard, we had a freak incident here last Friday afternoon when a customer's car accidentally caused some damage to cars inside and outside the showroom."

"We are delighted to say that no one was seriously injured in the incident and we would like to thank An Garda Siochana and Emergency Services for their rapid response and assistance, and everyone else who offered help and support following the accident."Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley (left) welcomes Prime Minister Theresa May to Stormont in Belfast where they will meet the main political parties as they continue talks aimed at ending the 13-month political stalemate. Niall Carson/PA Wire

THE power-sharing institutions in the North have been effectively moth-balled for more than a year.

There have been no MLAs in the Northern Assembly and civil servants have been running the show amid fears that a failure to re-establish the Executive will result in direct rule from Westminster.

During that time there has been no voice for Northern Ireland in crucial Brexit talks.

Political leaders from Dublin, London and the North are gathered in Belfast today and there is hope that a deal is on the cards. Heres what you need to know:

How long has this been going on?

Today marks the 400th day since the Northern Ireland Assembly collapsed after a row about a controversial renewable heat scheme  the so-called cash for ash controversy. The late Sinn Fein politician Martin McGuinness resigned as deputy first minister over DUP leader and then-first minister Arlene Fosters handling of the issue.

Why the delay in getting the power-sharing institutions back up and running?

While the renewable heat issue has taken a back seat, there have been other sticking points. Assembly elections last year failed to bring about progress in resolving the impasse and the snap election in the UK likely added further delay. There have been a number of missed deadlines for concluding talks.

What are the sticking points?

Efforts to re-establish the Executive and Assembly are currently focussed on issues like Sinn Feins demand for an Irish Language Act, dealing with legacy issues relating to the Troubles, and the Norths continuing ban on same-sex marriage.

Why is it thought there will be progress now?

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and British Prime Minister Theresa May arent in Belfast for nothing. Theres a belief that talks are moving towards a solution if Dublin and London are represented at the highest level.

Also, Sinn Feins new deputy leader Michelle ONeill said at the weekend she expects talks to conclude this week.

What happens then?

If there is a deal Arlene Foster would be elected as first minister and Michelle ONeill would assume the deputy first minister role previously held by Mr McGuinness.

MLAs would return to Stormont to resume their work.Garda management is considering reopening the controversial bar in the forces training college in Templemore, Co Tipperary. (stock photo)

Garda management is considering reopening the controversial bar in the force's training college in Templemore, Co Tipperary.

However, it is understood senior gardai have raised serious concerns over the appropriateness of serving alcohol where new recruits are being trained to become officers.

The training college's bar was at the centre of a financial irregularities scandal which led to a damning Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report. The bar has been closed for the last two years.

Senior sources said if the bar is to reopen, the premises' finances will be above board and it will be operated in a fully transparent manner.

At a recent Garda management meeting, Assistant Commissioner Fintan Fanning proposed that the training college's bar should remain permanently closed as it was not necessary to provide alcohol on site to new recruits.

Mr Fanning, who is one of the country's most experienced gardai, told the meeting he did not believe selling alcohol in the college sent a good message to new recruits.

"It's like having a strip club in a seminary," a senior source said.

However, since that meeting, it has been officially proposed that the Templemore College bar should reopen, and it has emerged gardai applied for a new liquor licence.

On Tuesday, Garda Commissioner Donall O'Cualain will discuss reopening the scandal-hit bar with his assistant commissioners and it is expected they will back the proposal.

Last year, the bar at the Garda College was forced to pay 38,000 in unpaid taxes to the Revenue Commissioner. The PAC also questioned financial arrangements linked to the bar and other services operating in the training college.

Gardai are also working on a drugs and alcohol policy for gardai. There are currently no guidelines for officers and, unlike other police forces, garda recruits are never subjected to drug tests.

"An Garda Siochana is currently liaising with the representative bodies on the introduction of a drugs and alcohol policy," a spokes- person said.Both the Taoiseach and British Prime Minister have indicated they are hopeful of a deal to end a 400-day stalemate in Stormont.

The leaders attended the latest round of talks aimed at restoring power-sharing in Northern Ireland.

Speaking as the talks concluded without a deal being reached Theresa May said "while differences remain, I think there is the basis of an agreement here" and hoped that an executive could be "up and running very soon".

"I have urged (the parties) to make one final push for the sake of the people of Northern Ireland," May told reporters. "It should be possible to see an executive up and running in Northern Ireland very soon."

Expand Close Sinn Fein's president Mary Lou McDonald (left) and Sinn Fein's vice president Michelle O'Neill, speaking to the media at Stormont Parliament buildings as Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar are holding crunch talks at Stormont House. Photo credit: Niall Carson/PA Wire / Facebook

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Whatsapp Sinn Fein's president Mary Lou McDonald (left) and Sinn Fein's vice president Michelle O'Neill, speaking to the media at Stormont Parliament buildings as Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar are holding crunch talks at Stormont House. Photo credit: Niall Carson/PA Wire

"I have had full and frank conversations with the five parties. I've also met with the Taoiseach.

"And while some differences remain I believe that it is possible to see the basis of an agreement here. There is the basis of an agreement and it should be possible to see an Executive up and running in Northern Ireland very soon," she said.

"The DUP and Sinn Fein have been working very hard to close the remaining gaps. But I would also like to recognise the contribution of other parties here in Northern Ireland too.

"What I am clear about is that we are all fully committed to doing everything we can to support this process  and as far as Westminster is concerned we stand ready to legislate for the re-establishment of an Executive as soon as possible after an agreement."

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Whatsapp Sinn Fein's president Mary Lou McDonald (left) and Sinn Fein's vice president Michelle O'Neill, speaking to the media at Stormont Parliament buildings. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Meanwhile, Leo Varadkar echoed her sentiment and said he is "very hopeful" of a powersharing agreement being reached this week.

DUP leader Arlene Foster said good progress had been made in the talks.

She said: "Good progress has been made and we will continue to work towards more progress. It is about finding an accommodation that recognises the need to respect all languages and all cultures in Northern Ireland and not allow one to dominate over another."

She later added: "There isn't a deal yet but there is very good progress and we will keep at it and continue to work on that progress."

The DUP leader said her party wanted to achieve a deal which was "good for everyone" and that was "sustainable" in the future.

She described the tone of the talks as "very good".

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Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said: "We believe we are close to an agreement."

Mrs Foster said: "The tone was very good. We continue to have those conversations and we will continue to have conversations with Sinn Fein around the outstanding matters and indeed with our own government as well."

The party leader added: "If the public are frustrated at the pace of progress, we all are as well."

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said: "We believe that we are close to an agreement which, certainly, we can put to our grassroots and to the community as a whole."

She acknowledged "we are not exactly there just yet" but "there is nothing insurmountable if there is the political will to reach an agreement".

There were no direct talks between Sinn Fein and the DUP, she said.

"Today we met with both governments, we did not have the opportunity to meet with the DUP," she said.

"Clearly we need to meet, clearly we need to resolve the outstanding issues."The Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan has issued a damning indictment of Mary Lou McDonald's coronation as Sinn Fein leader by stating she was "chosen by forces in the shadows" of Gerry Adams's party.

His remarks came as new Sinn Fein President Ms McDonald closed her first speech as leader with the phrase "up the Republic, up the rebels, agus tiocfaidh ar la" - invoking a slogan long associated with the Provisional IRA.

Mr Flanagan also accused McDonald of trying to align herself with Mr Adams's "hard man credentials" by attending Provisional IRA memorials and posing with symbols linked to the terrorist group.

"The leadership change is being portrayed as a clean break and a new dawn but it is nothing of the sort. The change is merely cosmetic," the Minister told the Sunday Independent.

He also said Ms McDonald should stop "parading" at Provo memorials and associating herself with "IRA iconography of terror".

Mr Flanagan's comments are highly significant given that he is the Cabinet minister with the highest level of security clearance. He said the greatest threat to security on the island of Ireland remains dissident republicans who broke away from the IRA.

The minister said Ms McDonald has inherited a party which operates a "closed culture and army-type discipline enforced by bullying and fear".

"Ms McDonald needs to start with a public apology for the so-called armed struggle which killed thousands of innocent civilians and wreaked havoc and mayhem on the islands of Ireland and Britain," he added.

Yesterday, a family devastated by IRA violence made a direct appeal to Ms McDonald. Stephen and Breege Quinn, whose son Paul was beaten to death by a local IRA gang 10 years ago, asked the new Sinn Fein president to use her influence to urge republicans to come forward with information about his murder.

Paul Quinn (21), from Cullyhanna, Co Armagh, was lured to a farm shed across the border in Monaghan and attacked with iron bars and nail-studded clubs by up to 10 men.

The independent monitoring commission said local IRA members and their associates were involved but Sinn Fein, while condemning the murder, denied the republican link. Gardai have now launched a cold case review of Paul Quinn's murder.

Breege Quinn appealed to Ms McDonald: "Especially because she is a mother and she is the new leader [of Sinn Fein] and I would expect new changes.

"We won't want the same line coming from her as came from Gerry Adams, which is deny, deny, deny," she said.

The silence surrounding Paul Quinn's murder has endured for 10 years in the rural border hinterland, even though gardai suspect that as many as 20 people may have been involved in some way in the orchestrated punishment attack, and that more had knowledge of it.

Police arrested 23 people in connection with Paul's death, some of whom were accused of withholding information. No one was ever charged.

"A lot of people said to me, be very proud you are Paul's mother and not the mother of those who murdered him," said Breege Quinn. "I would not like to be the mother of a child that murdered somebody, or the wife, and to stay silent. I couldn't live with that."

Paul's family believe he was targeted for a punishment beating after getting into an altercation with a relative of a local IRA man.

On the afternoon of October 20, 2007, a 10-strong mob gathered in a shed in Monaghan, and forced his friends to lure him there.

The men in boiler suits and balaclavas savagely beat him with iron bars and nail-studded cudgels in a prolonged attack.

Gardai believe they fled in a white van. Paul died hours later at Our Lady of Lourdes hospital, having sustained injuries all over his body. His mother Breege recalled going to her son's bedside at the hospital: "Half his ear was gone. His hands were smashed. The doctor said every bone in his body was broken. There was nothing left to fix."

In the days after Paul Quinn's murder, Conor Murphy, who was a Sinn Fein minister at the time, linked his death to a "dispute" between criminals, a claim the Quinns say "blackened the name" of their son. "Paul worked on building sites and as a truck driver, and occasionally drove vans for local cross-border smugglers but as has been widely acknowledged since, he was not a criminal.

"I would ask her [Mary Lou McDonald] to ask Conor Murphy to come out publicly and apologise to us for blackening our son's name," said Breege Quinn.

The family believe they know the identities of Paul's killers and claim that some of the suspects have supported Sinn Fein at election time.Newly elected Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald makes her acceptance speech on stage at the RDS. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne

Mary Lou McDonald has come under heavy criticism for her use of a slogan long associated with the IRA.

She rallied supporters as she assumed the leadership of Sinn Fein, exclaiming "up the rebels agus tiocfaidh ar la".

The Dublin TD took over from Gerry Adams unopposed on Saturday after his more than three decades in charge of Sinn Fein.

Her remarks were last night criticised by politicians on both sides of the Border.

They were said to hark back to a "dark time" when the Provisional IRA was engaged in its campaign of terror as well as a "missed opportunity" to demonstrate Sinn Fein had changed.

The use of the divisive phrase arguably overshadowed parts of her speech that spoke of the need for reconciliation and how Sinn Fein wants to achieve a United Ireland with "graciousness and generosity".

Fianna Fail TD Darragh O'Brien said her words were "ill-judged" as sensitive talks continue to re-establish power-sharing with unionists in the North.

He added: "Comments like that really hark back to a very dark time in the island's history when many people were murdered by the Provisional IRA."

Expand Close Gerry Adams votes for Michelle ONeill to become the Sinn Fein vice president at the partys special conference. Photo: PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp Gerry Adams votes for Michelle ONeill to become the Sinn Fein vice president at the partys special conference. Photo: PA

Mr O'Brien also said: "I'd like to see the end of those types of phrases", arguing that they are "very unhelpful" amid the ongoing negotiations in the North.

Former Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) leader Mike Nesbitt said unionists won't be disappointed by the speech because they didn't have high hopes for it.

But he said that given Ms McDonald took over the leadership unopposed, and didn't need to reassure her base, it was "a missed opportunity to deliver change".

He added that she spoke of fresh-thinking and bold ideas "but ended with the same, stale rhetoric of 'up the rebels' and 'tiocfaidh ar la'." Mr Nesbitt said: "Unionism will not be slow to identify the contradictions."

He also said: "Now the speech is over, let's see what she has to offer in next week's talks in Belfast."

Sinn Fein has said it expects talks on re-establishing the Northern Executive to conclude this week.

Ms McDonald said she thinks her party can do business with DUP leader Arlene Foster, and the new Sinn Fein leader said yesterday: "I very much hope we get the institutions back up and running.

"The issues are clear, the issues are resolvable." There were no direct references in Ms McDonald's speech to atrocities carried out by the Provisional IRA but she insisted "the war is long over". She denied that her elevation to the top in Sinn Fein was a "coronation", arguing that it was a democratic decision.

Her use of the phrase "tiocfaidh ar la" was apparently unscripted as it did not appear on a version circulated to the media shortly before she spoke.

There was a standing ovation among the more than 2,000 party faithful gathered in Dublin's RDS.

Fine Gael Senator Kieran O'Donnell clashed with Sinn Fein TD Pearse Doherty over her remarks on RTE Radio.

Mr O'Donnell argued that they were "irresponsible" with talks in the North at a "very delicate stage".

Mr Doherty insisted that unionists know well that Sinn Fein is a republican party and wants to achieve a United Ireland and denied her comments were odd.

Last night Sinn Fein said criticism of Ms McDonald's remarks was "nit-picking" and maintained it was "a tremendous speech".

A statement said that "any fair analysis" showed she spoke of "reaching out to our Unionist neighbours and respecting each other's beliefs and traditions".

It also said Sinn Fein is in the business of delivering change "which seems to be a challenge to other parties".Mary Lou McDonald has claimed her party doesn't 'circle the wagons' when dealing with cases of bullying, despite an attempt by Sinn Fein to gag members in a constituency embroiled in a dispute.

She also repeated her denial that there's a culture of bullying in the party, parroting her insistence that it is dealing with "localised issues".

Around 15 councillors and other public representatives across several counties have quit Sinn Fein or been expelled due to a range of disputes.

Party chairman Declan Kearney last month wrote to members in Dublin North-West ordering them not to discuss internal party matters in the media and warning of disciplinary action if they did.

He reportedly told members: "I cannot overstate how damaging this is to the party."

The dispute in the constituency has seen councillor Noeleen Reilly quit the party, and Sinn Fein TD Dessie Ellis censured for comments he made in the media suggesting she was not fit to serve in the party.

Sinn Fein has claimed Ms Reilly orchestrated an online bullying campaign against a fellow councillor. She denies this and insists she was the victim of bullying.

Last night, Sinn Fein said it was trying to resolve issues in the constituency at the time Mr Kearney's letter was sent. A statement added: "Media reports were only serving to inflame tensions and were counterproductive to the party's efforts."

During her first speech as leader, Ms McDonald spoke about building the party and said "this will mean changes in how we operate". She added: "We must be open, flexible and enthusiastic in creating space for newer members and for the sharing of new ideas".

During her appearance on RTE's 'The Week', Ms McDonald was asked about this section of her speech and cases of bullying in the party. She was asked if the culture in Sinn Fein is different to other parties and it was put to her party officials have written to members telling them not to talk to the media in a bid to "circle the wagons".

Ms McDonald replied saying: "I don't accept that."

She said the party has an independent complaints procedure and that doesn't make it different to other parties.

She said Sinn Fein's rules were applied in relation to allegations of bullying in Dublin North-West.

Later, she acknowledged there have been disputes in the party but put it down to Sinn Fein being a growing organisation. She said party members operate for the most part in a "friendly, co-operative and respectful way".

She added: "Members of our party actually resent a description in the public domain that says there is a culture of bullying in the party. There is nothing of the sort. What we have had are localised issues."Sinn Fein has been criticised for hosting a series of "premature" debates on a United Ireland and failing to engage fully with ending a year-long deadlock in the North.

It comes after Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin declined three opportunities to speak at the debates because he wants to focus on Brexit matters.

His party has appealed to new Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald to focus on similar matters and engage fully with negotiations in Northern Ireland instead of indulging in a series of debates about uniting the 32 counties.

Mr Martin was criticised by his Sinn Fein constituency rival Donnchadh O Laoghaire last week for declining to take part in a United Ireland discussion in Cork City Hall later this month.

However, Fianna Fail said it will not be sending a representative to the Sinn Fein event because the party wants to focus on more pressing issues.

"Fianna Fail is committed to a United Ireland through consensus and dialogue and believes that Ireland is best served now by preparing for Brexit and limiting the damage it will have on many sectors and on citizens on our island," said a spokesman.

"Therefore, discussions now about a United Ireland are premature."

He claimed that Sinn Fein should be focused on engaging in discussions with the aim of re-establishing a power-sharing executive in the North, more than a year after the collapse of the government in Northern Ireland following the 'cash-for-ash' controversy.

The DUP and Sinn Fein are believed to be nearing a deal and it is hoped this week could bring further progress to restore a government.

Nonetheless, Sinn Fein has been criticised for organising the United Ireland debates while tensions remain high in the North. "Fianna Fail responded to the invitation by saying they would be unable to attend the conference," said a spokesperson.

"We believe the people of Northern Ireland would be best served by having an executive in place and would urge Sinn Fein to put all of their current energies into that process."

Mr Martin last week ruled out the prospect of his party going into coalition with Sinn Fein.

He criticised Ms McDonald, saying she "was a good soldier within Sinn Fein in terms of sticking to the line and defending the indefensible".

Sinn Fein TD Mr O Laoghaire said Fianna Fail needed to set out a vision for a United Ireland.

"It is remarkable that while Fianna Fail have refused to engage in Sinn Fein's series of 'Towards A United Ireland' conferences, unionist voices have been represented at each and will also be at the Cork event.

"A United Ireland will be better for everyone on our island in economic, social and political terms. Any political party that hides from the debate is doing their electors a great disservice."

Speaking yesterday, Ms McDonald said she would be hopeful that during her leadership there will be a referendum on a United Ireland and that it would be passed.

She added that she would want it achieved with "the maximum consensus possible".A view off snow fall in Cootehill Co.Cavan. Picture by Philip Fitzpatrick

A Status Yellow wind and rain weather warning is due to come into effect from 5pm this evening and will remain in place until 6am tomorrow.

Met Eireann says there is a risk of thundery downpours with gusts of between 90 and 110km/hr expected.

Localised flooding is also a risk when this warning comes into effect later today.

It follows snow and icy conditions which have caused treacherous driving conditions across the country today.

Expand Close Image of the road conditions on the N4 this morning at the Collooney bypass / Facebook

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Whatsapp Image of the road conditions on the N4 this morning at the Collooney bypass

A number of schools across Donegal had to close after heavy snow and freezing temperatures forced road closures.

Bus Eireann had to cancel a number of bus services in Cork and the northeast due to snow.

These included route 236 07:20 Castletownbere to Glengarriff; route 237 06:50 Clonakilty to Cork; route 238 07:20 Butlerstown to Cork.; 07:30 from Ballyjamesduff to Oldcastle /Kells; 08:45 from Kells to Bailiboro & return at 09:15 09:50 from Kells to Oldcastle; 08:00 Cavan to Delvin & return 09:20 to Cavan.

In Limerick, the Newcastle West/Shanagolden Road is now closed north of Ardagh due to a truck off the road.

#CONDITIONS Snow and ice are still issues on many routes around parts of the west, north-west and south. Drive with extra care. https://t.co/ipFDM8svNY pic.twitter.com/6cDDidGQ3N  AA Roadwatch (@aaroadwatch) February 12, 2018

AA Roadwatch report that the N71 in Cork is extremely slippery due to ice and drivers are being urged to take care.

Gardai are warning motorists in Galway to drive with care along the N84 between Curraghline & Ballindooley due to very icy conditions.

A number of vehicles are off the road in Loughrea as the conditions are "very poor", AA Roadwatch reports.

While in Donegal, road users are advised to avoid Mountain Pass (R244) between Buncrana and Carndonagh.

#DONEGAL Snow and ice still an issue on secondary roads and on high ground in many places. Take care.



Video of Meenaroy this morning from @HarryWalsh65 pic.twitter.com/0oBGleVYeR  AA Roadwatch (@aaroadwatch) February 12, 2018

Conditions have been described as "poor" around Tralee and Killarney by AA Roadwatch, as well as in the west of the county.

Additional accumulations of snow are likely during the period also, mainly in parts of west Ulster and north Connacht.Gardai have arrested twice as many people in Dublin for offences related to 'Benzos' than the rest of the country, new figures show.

The psychoactive drugs, which also includes a number of 'Z' tablets, have caused serious issues in Dublin's north-inner city where according to local TD Maureen O'Sullivan they are being sold like "sweets" .

Since May of last year, there have been 189 incidents linked to Benzodiazepines recorded in the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) with proceedings launched in 133 of these cases.

This compares to the 83 'benzos' related arrests and offences outside of the capital, with 51 cases commenced in these incidents.

The figures, released in response to a parliamentary question to Independent TD Maureen O'Sullivan, show there are twice as many arrests for possession of benzos in Dublin than the rest of the country.

However, Ms O'Sullivan expressed her frustration that no proceedings were taken in 66 cases where people were detained for being in possession of tablets in the capital.

"Things are still a bit slow, we had hoped that there would have been hefty fines coming from it, because there needs to be stronger deterrents against the selling of tablets. The community in the north-inner city are being driven demented by it," Ms O'Sullivan said.

"The guards are doing their best but in a large number of cases proceedings haven't commenced yet."

Ms O'Sullivan said people were travelling to the capital to purchase Benzo tablets, which are being sold in parts of the city centre "like sweets".

New regulations were introduced last May, in which restrictions were placed on the possession of controlled drugs such as Alprazolam.

It made it an offence to be in possession of Benzodiazepines- including "Z Drugs" Zopiclone and Zolpidem without a valid prescription.

Gardai attached to the Dublin North central divisional drug unit have been targeting a number of prolific dealers in the inner city as part of a crackdown. Last December, around 30,000 Xanax tablets worth a street value of 60,000 were seized at Dublin Port.Tributes have been paid to one of the country's most experienced criminal investigators who was found dead at a Dublin garda station over the weekend.

Detective Superintendent Colm Fox, who was the lead detective overseeing the Regency Hotel murder probe, was discovered fatally injured in Ballymun garda station about 9pm on Saturday.

Gardai and the Garda Ombudsman have launched separate investigations into the incident, and his death is being treated as a personal tragedy.

The senior detective's official firearm was also recovered at the scene.

Colleagues of the veteran garda have paid their respects, describing him as a "fully committed" investigator who was involved in some of the country's most high-profile murder inquiries.

These included the investigation into the murder of Dublin teenager Daniel McAnespie (17) in 2010.

Daniel, who was in the care of the State at the time of his killing, was discovered in a drain in Rathfeigh, Co Meath, three months after he was first reported missing.

Det-Supt Fox, who was a detective inspector at the time, led the investigation that last year led to two men being convicted in relation to the killing.

Richard Dekker (31) was found guilty of Daniel's murder while Trevor Noone (29) pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

Det-Supt Fox was also leading the investigation into David Byrne's murder at the Regency Hotel on February 5, 2016.

He was also heading the garda inquiry into the double murder of two innocent people in Ballymun, Dublin, last year.

Mother-of-six Antoinette Corbally (48) and locksmith Clinton Shannon (30) were gunned down on August 16 on Balbutcher Drive after being caught in the crossfire of a gangland hit.

Det-Supt Fox spent the majority of his career in the Dublin region, but also served as superintendent in Swinford, Co Mayo, and in a number of Garda national units.

Supt Denis Ferry, general secretary of the Association of Garda Superintendents, described Det-Supt Fox as a "very capable" policeman.

He said that the organisation had been left "shocked" by the news.

"Our sympathies must firstly go out to Colm's wife, family and friends as well as his colleagues who have worked with him over the years.

"We are absolutely shocked and devastated at his death, and he was also very active with the association. He will be greatly missed," Supt Ferry said.

Dublin city councillor for Fianna Fail, Daithi de Roiste, who is chair of the Joint Policing Committee (JPC), said: "This is a tragic loss.

"As chair of the JPC my thoughts and prayers go out to the officer's family and friends and his colleagues at this time," he added.

Anyone affected by this story can call Samaritans on 116 123 (free call) or text 087 2 60 90 90 (standard text rates apply).Police are treating the death of a 53-year-old woman as murder

A five year-old boy has died after falling into a Co Antrim river along with his twin brother. Kayden McGowan, from Ballymena, was swept for more than three miles after entering the River Braid while on a lunchtime walk with his family.

A PSNI spokesman confirmed the tragic news which happened on the Broughshane Road close to the Ecos Centre at around 1.04pm.

His brother was rescued immediately. Emergency services, including the Northern Ireland air ambulance, recovered Kayden from the water shortly after 3pm and airlifted him to the Royal Victoria Hospital, where he later died.

Last night Harryville Primary School, where Kayden was a pupil, paid tribute to the youngster.

"Please remember the McGowan family in your thoughts and prayers at this very sad time as they mourn the loss of wee Kayden," a post on Facebook read.

"The whole school community is remembering you at this sad time."

Last night tributes flooded in over social media for the Ballymena boy. One mum wrote: "Wee angel taken too soon had his whole life ahead of him." Another said: "Totally heartbreaking, thoughts and prayers with you."They say if you're going to write about sex, then you'd better do it well. As the Literary Review's Bad Sex Awards at the end of each year highlight, many people go too far with overblown similes and metaphors, with a less-than-convincing end result. US novelist Christopher Bollen won last year's award for his novel, The Destroyers. The judges of the prize said in a tongue-in-cheek statement: "Christopher Bollen has prevailed against strong competition. In the week that Prince Harry announced his engagement to Meghan Markle, it seems only fitting that Britain's most eligible literary prize has been snapped up by an American."

EL James's 50 Shades of Grey may have put erotica firmly on the map over the last few years, and it's easy to pick out random passages from authors' works and scoff at them, but what about those writers of non-erotica who bravely, and effectively, include sex in their works of fiction?

Writing about sex is one of the most difficult subjects to get right, yet some make it appear effortless.

One of those writers is Irish-born author Eimear McBride, whose debut novel, A Girl is a Half-formed Thing, won the Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction in 2014. McBride's second novel, The Lesser Bohemians (Faber, 2016), is about a young drama student's relationship with an older man.

McBride says that she writes about sex as she is interested in people, language and power structures.

"Sex is an interesting lens through which to examine people and, if you allow it, can make you think about the possibilities of language very differently," she says. "If I was only describing the mechanics of it over and over that would become very dull, very quickly. But by using it as a context through which the reader can better understand who the characters are, a whole realm of possibilities opens up. The beauty of following a relationship is it's constantly changing, as power moves back and forth, and using the body to reflect those changes, rather than reported speech, lets you play with how language best captures that."

Power structures and sex certainly feature in Imogen Hermes Gowar's debut novel, The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock (Harvill Secker), which is about the life of a courtesan in 18th Century London. It has already received favourable comparisons to the writing of Sarah Waters and Michel Faber since publication last month. Hermes Gowar has said that she wanted to explore women's lives before feminism, where she was thinking about "the leverage that sex might have for women". The novel features a colourful orgy scene a third of the way through.

"For me, that [orgy scene] embodied that thing about Georgian sex and display - at first it sounds fun, hilarious and bizarre and then once you delve beneath the surface it feels quite tawdry and unpleasant and from this distance it's hard to gauge exactly how much consent the girls were giving," says Hermes Gowar. "Every part of these brothels were to give men exactly what they want and to deliver a spectacular experience they wouldn't get anywhere elseit's a one-sided sexual fantasy. I think lots of people are really struck by that scene and I think it has the OTT qualities that I wanted but I also don't read it as necessarily fun."

But how to approach writing about sex? True, there seems to be a certain cringe element involved. McBride says that she ditched any cliched words in order to create a sense of authenticity.

The main pitfall is the severely limited vocabulary available for writing explicitly about the sex," she says. "It's been stunted by generations of censorship and social disapprobation, and this makes writing it very difficult to do without falling back on all those old cliched thrustings, pumpings and grindings. Once you're in that territory it's hard for the writing to really live any more. So, the first thing I did was forbid myself use of any of the usual sex words. While this made it harder to write, it also became more interesting and forced me to focus on different aspects of the sexual experience as a better means of expressing it."

For debut author Emily Phillips, who is also features director at Grazia magazine, the sex scenes in her debut novel, Trying, which is about a couple's struggle with infertility, were her biggest worry about the book.

"I definitely felt that I needed to do a bit of research for sex scenes in terms of not wanting to make it too cringey, but also not wanting to make it romanticised, or rosy, because I wanted it to be real and ridiculous and quite toe-curling at times. But not toe-curling in the way that I was writing it and I worry about it; it's probably my biggest worry about the book," she says.

Trying (Hodder), is a bittersweet romantic comedy, which came out last month. The novel begins with a literal bang, in a very funny sex scene where a wife and her husband who are trying to conceive for the zillionth time. The novel mirrors the author's own struggle with infertility and she says that she deliberately began the opening scene as she meant to go on.

"I did feel as though I wanted to confront the reader as soon as we'd got into it," says Phillips. "Because that is the main part of making a baby, and the repeatedness of it, and failing, becomes very wearing, but also quite ridiculous and often funny and sad at the same time."The 2fm DJ chats about her favourite people, places and things.

The person

A formidable, kind, wise, fun-filled party loving woman whom we lost recently. My gorgeous Granny Clare.

The memory

Our family parties every Christmas. Aunts and uncles fly in from the US and UK every December. I have quite a big family, and still love our get-togethers.

The moment of the day

Going on air at 1pm each day in 2fm. I work with a great team. We have a laugh, and I get to play tunes to Ireland. It's pretty cool.

The song

Underworld - Two Months Off. The extended nine-minute version. It makes me happy.

The movie

Searching For Sugar Man. I love a great music doc. If you haven't seen it, do not google it, as you'll spoil it. Oasis: Supersonic is eye-opening, too.

The hero

People who dedicate their lives to helping others, like Fr Peter McVerry. All the children, parents and care workers in the LauraLynn Children's Hospice in Dublin. The care they give is outstanding. If you would like to support the hospice, you can buy the 2fm U2 album, Joshua Tree - New Roots; it's available on iTunes now.

The book

The Universe Has Your Back by Gabrielle Bernstein. It's non-fiction, and always has the answers. It's become a bit of a bible.

The outfit

I want to say my heels and Saturday-night glam. I do love that, but the truth is, I love my jeans and Air Max. Always will.

The accessory

My Chupi gold coin necklace; it was given to me by old colleagues.

The gadget

My phone. Because everything is on it. I use it for work. I listen to music and Shazam a lot. I scroll endlessly for hours on mindless Instagram pages, because I'm nosy by nature. An ex-boyfriend wrote a poem about how much attention I gave it compared to him. I think he was trying to tell me I had a problem.

The pet hate

Meanness. In both senses of the word. I'm not a fan of people being the opposite of nice to each other, and I also don't like 'scabs' - the Dublin term for people who are tight with money.

The friend

I'm a very lucky girl, as I'm blessed with a core group of very brilliant, yet very different, girls. But I have to shine a light on my wonderful friend Anita Ward, who rounded up all my best girlfriends for a surprise party for me last year - when I really needed it.

The beauty product

My lip gloss. It's called Sexy Mother Pucker by Soap & Glory. It tingles, but it's the best plumper out there.

The holiday

As a destination, I'd have to say Cuba. It's raw and wild. But for tradition and memories, I'd choose my annual trip to Ibiza with my pals.

The piece of advice

Last year, I read a sentence that struck a chord with me - 'Hurt people hurt people'. It has really helped me understand us, as humans, a bit better.

The celebrity

I think Michael D is like Ireland's beloved uncle. Worldwide, it's Michelle Obama. I think she is a force for good. And I think she would be a great agony aunt. If she and Barack split, I would lose all faith in the world. Just like I did when Brad and Jen split.

The drink

I should say tea, because I am very particular about how it's made. But then again, I'm fussy about how a margarita is made, too! It has to have white tequila and fresh lime juice.

The hotel

I judge hotels by their pillows. Hotel Estherea in Amsterdam wins the European pillow award. Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny wins the Irish one.

The bar

The Gravediggers in Glasnevin; and Ukiyo in the city centre for tunes.

The hobby

Diving under water and swimming for 40 minutes. It's especially gorgeous when you get the pool in the gym to yourself. It truly is my bliss.

The part of my body

My smile. Because without it, I look really cranky.

The virtue

I think it's really important to encourage people, and show them that they can achieve anything they want in their life.

The vice

Always thinking I need something new for a night out.

The smell

The scent of suntan lotion. Whatever the brand, that coconut smell means good times.

The taste

I love the taste of soft-boiled eggs, which I have for breakfast every morning. I add a pinch of salt, and then I'm set up for the day.

Universal Music Ireland & 2FM have just released The Joshua Tree - New Roots, an 11 track studio collection which sees some of Ireland's most outstanding musical talent cover songs from U2's seminal Grammy Award-winning album 'The Joshua Tree'. The Joshua Tree - New Roots will raise funds for LauraLynn, Ireland's Children's Hospice and is out now.It's a truth universally acknowledged that Killarney is one of Irish tourism's honeypots. But exactly how valuable it is has remained a mystery.

Until now, that is.

A Killarney Tourism Economic Impact Review report published today reveals that tourism in the town generates 410 million every year.

The report, compiled by strategic research consultants W2 Consulting, also says Killarney receives 1.1 million visitors annually, supporting 3,122 local jobs.

Between now and 2025, it adds, tourism will grow by 30pc.

It's not all good news, however. 'Seasonality' and 'Regionality' have become buzzwords in Irish tourist industry circles in recent years, and it seems even the Kingdom is not immune to the effects of its rural setting and an off-season drop in visitor numbers.

Expand Close Killarney, Co Kerry; Ireland. Photo: Brian Morrison/Failte Ireland / Facebook

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In December, the report found, room occupancy rates drop to 20pc.

Although Killarney's large volume of accommodation skews comparisons somewhat (the town has around 10,000 beds), this figure compares to 71pc occupancy in Dublin and 60pc nationally during the same month.

The review, commissioned by Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, also noted that just 7pc of visitors travel to Killarney for business.

"Theres clearly a perception that all is well in Kerry because of tourism, but this report indicates that while we have an amazing product that is delivering on tourists expectations, there are areas we need to address, commented Conor Hennigan, Development Manager with Killarney Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.

Tourism is hugely important to Killarney, but there are indicators within the report that confirm the economic imbalance on this island," he added.

"The fact that Dublin is the destination most frequently visited by tourists after their time in Killarney suggests that not enough of our visitors are spending time elsewhere in Co. Kerry or on the Wild Atlantic Way."

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In terms of visitor attitudes, 41pc of those surveyed said Killarney exceeded and 57pc that it met expectations, the report states.

The town also scored strongly in terms of value for money, with 77pc rating Killarney as either very good or good value compared to 61pc for Ireland.

The average room rate for Killarney is 113, versus 139 nationally - although rates do nudge above the national average for two months in peak season.

This report has been enlightening," added Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce president Paul O'Neill. With "the right approach and investment", he believes the industry can turn regionality and seasonality challenges into an opportunity.

Recommendations in the report include a new digital marketing campaign, support for direct international access to the west coast, investment in road and broadband networks, and enhancing Killarney's product mix to attract year-round visits.

Completing the Gap of Dunloe Greenway (photo above) is mentioned, for example, as is the Fossa Way and Lough Leane Loop Walk.

With British visitor numbers to Ireland down 6pc last year, the report also recommends meeting the Brexit challenge by building on Killarney's already strong appeal with the North American and Mainland European tourism markets.

Read more:I am a self-entitled narcissist. I'm soft, work-shy and scared of everything. I'm censorious, hypocritical and incapable of normal human interaction. I have no intention of growing up and standing on my own two feet. I read these things every day about myself, because I am 27, and therefore part of The Worst Generation Ever. I'm a millennial. And I'm sorry.

I understand that it is the prerogative of every older generation to whinge and shake their fists at the generations that come after them. Becoming a resentful, crotchety old windbag and getting away with it is surely one of the greatest perks of getting older. But I can't help but feel that somehow the naysaying is worse now - and kind of meaner.

Every day brings a new op-ed about how millennials are destroying the world with our flighty snowflake ways. In 2017, we were accused of murdering doorbells, lunch, marriage, marmalade, beer, diamonds, bars of soap, threesomes, fabric softener, dinner dates, cruises, napkins, wine corks, handshakes, light yoghurts, gambling, cereal, suits, serendipity, oil, stilettos and traditional automotive marketing.

It all seems a bit much. Of course, believing that we are especially besieged and victimised is, in itself, a very millennial quality, so it's hard for me to be objective on this.

Everyone knows that the worst thing about millennials is our infuriating sense of entitlement. We want success served up to us on a plate, and we don't want to work for it. We crave constant praise and attention from our bosses. We're spoilt.

And yet, just before Christmas, a study from New Zealand was published which found no evidence of rising entitlement in millennials. Instead, it seems that entitlement in younger people is a developmental thing, not generational. So the older we get, the less entitled we feel.

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That is, until we hit 65. The research found that entitlement tends to creep up again at this age.

"That is what we call the La Dolce Vita effect - retired people feeling they have worked hard and now deserve to reap the benefits of that," the researchers said. Indeed, there's no one better than a 70-year-old to tell you the meaning of hard work, and where exactly you're going wrong: see, you work behind a bar for a couple of months at 18, then you go to an office at exactly 9am every day and leave not a minute after five. After three years, you buy a family home for a couple of thousand; fast forward 40 years, and you can sell it for a million! La Dolce Vita! Why didn't we think of that?

This might explain why it isn't 20-somethings demanding to speak to the manager in Debenhams because their toaster broke after five years, or because they dropped their bronzer and it smashed, or because they found one of their own hairs in their soup. It's science, guys.

Perhaps, then, generational tensions are not because we are different - but because we are the same. Maybe the under-30s and over-60s are just a load of spoilt narcissists trying to blame each other for their problems, and failing to see we're looking in a mirror.

Last month, an online 'influencer' emailed an Irish hotel asking to 'collaborate' (millennials do not work, they collab). She asked the hotel to put her up, free of charge, in exchange for exposure on her social media.

The reply from the hotel, which it posted on Facebook - along with a screenshot of the influencer's email request - pointed out that 'exposure' wouldn't pay for the cook to make her breakfast, the maid to make her bed, the rent, and so on. The hotel's Facebook reply continued: "It takes a lot of balls to send an email like that, if not much self-respect and dignity".

There was uproar. The influencer, Elle Darby, outed herself almost immediately in an emotional YouTube video (naturally).

"I feel disgusting. I feel vile having to say this, but as a 22-year-girl who's running her own business from her home, I don't feel like I did anything wrong."

If I could have jumped through my computer screen and grabbed the shovel myself, I would have. But I couldn't. She carried on digging.

"I work as a social media influencer. It's how I live my life; it's what I know. It's the only job that has brought me happiness. It makes me feel like I'm living my life's purpose. I feel like I'm helping others in so many ways. And that's why I do what I do."

Stop. Please, for the love of god, stop.

"I'm just a young girl trying to live her best life."

Elle, no.

"I was embarrassed, I felt humiliated. So many emotions going through me that I should never have had to feel in the first place."

RIP, Elle.

But then something strange happened. Despite my better judgment, I began to... agree with her. She pointed out that she was being roasted by people who were not social-media natives, who did not necessarily understand how it works. They were all "like, 30 years-plus".

She has a point, even older millennials (like me) don't understand this micro-generation below us, who have figured out how to monetise being charming on camera. She urged us to move with the times. And we probably should - Pandora's Box has been opened. The internet exists. Jobs that didn't exist 20 years ago are now a thing, and we should probably just get over it.

It's the cobwebbed old curmudgeons who, she says, make it so hard "for people to follow their dreams. There are so many young people out there nowadays whose life goal is to be able to say, 'I can provide for myself and my family by putting videos I enjoy making on YouTube'."

It's easy to laugh in her face. It's like she's asking for it. But why are we so snobby about people doing jobs that they actually like? Millennials are lambasted for having the audacity to say they would like to feel good about their work. That's a pretty strange state of affairs. Call me a snowflake, pelt me with P45s, but what sort of a world do we live in where happiness is dismissed as a notion-y luxury?

Elle's video was nearly 20 minutes long, and it was 20 minutes of my life that I'll never get back. It was difficult at times. I had to turn the volume down. I physically cringed with my whole body. But I think she taught me something: just because we don't understand something, doesn't mean we have to ruin it for people who do. Whether we like it or not, many hotels would (and do) jump at the chance for the advertising.

The older people calling this girl a nasty freeloader are probably the same ones using unpaid interns. 'Exposure' doesn't pay the bills, but neither does 'experience', and yet plenty of young people are expected to work, unpaid, for the latter - and be grateful.

Elle is technically the same generation as me, but she seems like some kind of exotic alien. She probably doesn't remember landlines. But she's an alien that comes in peace with an important message for all humanity: get real.

The rest of us failed YouTubers are living with the parents. Mammies are writing to newspaper agony aunts, asking how they can get young Shane to maybe buy a pint of milk here and there, and is it too late to teach him how to use the washing machine, and does he have to eat with us every night - it's getting a bit much?

If it helps, Shane probably doesn't want to be there either; he hates that you make brown bread in his NutriBullet, but he's out of options.

Rental opportunities in Dublin recently included a double bed, where your head could lie directly beside the feet of the person paying to sleep in another single bed at a 90-degree angle to yours, in the same room, which is also a kitchen.

Dad, I know what you're thinking - didn't you and Mick Crotty used to top and tail when you went to London in the summers to work on the sites? Weren't you grand? But Dad, this place is 1,300 a month. It's a new-build. Eighteen-year-old chancers like you and Crotty have been priced out of the market completely.

For 1,000 a month, you can sleep in a child's bunk bed with your fridge beneath you. Cheaper options include a literal corridor, with a sort of kitchen and a bed, all along one long, narrow hallway, for a mere 750 per month.

If we were really willing to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps and go down to 650, we could rent someone's shed ('log house') which has Netflix, but apparently no bed, or anywhere to make a bite to eat. Presumably, we're meant to sit on the couch under the 'Live, Love, Laugh' decal, eating Alpen bars and imagining what a functional economy looked like.

I met a girl at a 30th-birthday party a few months ago who's finishing up her PhD at Trinity. She's sharing a place with a creepy dude who has "crossed the line" a few times, and she has to keep her bedroom door locked. The slight edge of fear whenever she's home is worth it, because she wouldn't be able to find a room to herself on her budget anywhere else in the city.

I know loads of you lived in some pretty awful places. But you did so to save up and make something of yourself and buy a real house, where you were not compelled to sleep next to a microwave. It was worth it! Look at you now! But rents have skyrocketed, and wages just haven't. There's no saving up to be done. If we're refusing to grow up, it's because we're left with little choice.

And let's not pretend that men living with their mammies until they're 30 is a new thing here. Come on.

We might look like a generation of flighty commitmentphobes living in sin and putting off babies, but having grown up seeing so many unhappy marriages, entered into far too young, who can blame us? And we're the first generation in this country to grow up not completely terrified of sex.

In fact, a study last year made waves when it showed that, apparently, Irish millennials are among the most sexually liberated young people in Europe. You see, apparently 55pc of us have had sex outside. This was taken by the rest of Europe to be proof of our kinkiness. I wouldn't want to disavow them of this notion; it's kind of nice being the cool kids for once.

But of course, here we know that the reason so many of us have had sex outside is not because we're liberated exhibitionists, but because we all live at home, and we'd rather die than have mammy bumping into Jack or Jill sneaking out in the morning. Even if she didn't see him or her, she'd just know anyway when she came in the next day to see if you had any white washing. She'd know. So a quickie behind the bins it is. Needs must.

To be fair, it is true that we must seem like an awful bunch of sluts. Ireland got through the 1960s and 1970s unscathed by free love. While their contemporaries across the Atlantic were going mad on contraception, Ireland was still enjoying its long (pants on) 19th Century. Since Irish millennials have been born, homosexuality has been decriminalised, divorce legalised, the morning-after pill has become readily available, and attendance at Mass has dropped.

Slightly prudish

In many ways, Ireland has pulled the stick out of its arse. But in comparison to other countries, it happened very quickly. And that's disorienting for anyone. It's especially easy for Irish parents to look at their children and wonder what in the name of god happened.

But there's always Saoirse Ronan to remind us that we're not doomed. She was on The Ellen Show in the US a while back, and when asked whether she was dating anyone, she replied, "No, I don't know how to date."

Ellen DeGeneres then tried to play a game of 'Who would you rather?' with Hollywood men, which a baffled and slightly prudish Saoirse basically refused to engage in - "I think we could have a nice companionship together," she eventually conceded of one of them. The exasperated host told her: "You're like a 75-year-old woman. The audience don't understand you. What decade does she live in?" Saoirse is a crap millennial, by American standards, but the interview struck a chord with a lot of us here. You see, Saoirse is a total Aisling.

Oh My God What A Complete Aisling started as a Facebook group to pay homage to a particular flavour of young Irish woman: an Aisling who commutes to Dublin from down home, knows the Weight Watchers points for everything, and carries her work shoes in a Brown Thomas bag. She's not much of an avocado-on-toast girl; she holds no truck with notions. The Facebook group became a book, and every woman (and a few men) in Ireland was aghast or comforted or confused when they discovered they were a bit of an Aisling.

The OMGWACA Facebook group is probably the nicest place on the internet. I imagine it's what the inventors of the internet imagined when they typed the first 'www'. It's like a Utopian anti-mumsnet. It's a community.

"Lads, I love travelling on the train. Joined in on a crossword puzzle with my fellow travellers. The best cross-generation craic I've had in ages!" someone posted. Replies included: "Which train?".

People post mundane, sweet, funny pictures, daily minutiae, problems and news, and invariably get about 40 mundane, sweet, funny replies. It's gentle and accepting and completely bizarre.

A 30-something posted about experimenting with off-brand tea on her husband, and hundreds of men and women aged from 19 to 90 chipped in: "Two-cup blind taste test. Make sure you tape the right name to the bottom of each mug"; "I wouldn't even tell him. Make a cup and let him drink it." And "I used to put the Lidl tea bags in the Lyons box at work, because the stingy fuckers never paid into the kitty on time. No-one noticed!"

If an older generation feels displaced by what appears to be an army of young brunching sociopaths, Aisling reminds us that Ireland is still a place for them. Because we kind of are them. The distaste for notions could be the unifying force we need in Ireland today.

It's comforting to know that in what seems to be an increasingly globalised world - in which the internet has obliterated borders, and toddlers in Cork have American accents from the TV - that there remains something distinctively Irish about we millennials; that fact offers the possibility of connection.

There is a wealth of sociological research here which shows there is a particular connectedness and empathic cross-generational bond between Irish family members. It's credited with the resounding 'yes' vote in the marriage equality referendum: young people here actually talk to their grandparents.

Meanwhile, over in the UK, vegan millennials everywhere remain shaken about Brexit to this day. Staying close and in contact with your oldies is just not as ingrained in English culture as it is here. The Brexit vote was broadly split across generational lines: never the twain met to talk about it. And so they all went to the polls unchallenged and innocent, thinking that everyone thought just like them.

I wonder whether the hatred of millennials comes from a shared sense of guilt: you made us. You told us we were special. You told us that people were only making fun of us because they were jealous, not because we deserved it. You gave us medals for taking part. We didn't invent the technology you blame us for, we were simply born into it and we adapted. We didn't create this economy. Now you're reaping what you sowed and the harvest is some stupid-looking 25-year-olds who want to be personal trainers when they grow up and don't realise they're grown up already.

It's too late - we've all just got to make do and get on with it.

My mother used remind me that if you meet an asshole in the morning, you met an asshole. If you meet assholes all day, you're the asshole.

Is it possible that if you think an entire generation of Irish people are intolerable dicks, maybe you're the problem? Then again, am I the typical millennial, always looking to blame someone else and refusing to take responsibility?

In this case, the truth is probably somewhere in the middle. We're all as bad as each other. And we'll have to join forces soon, anyway - those Generation Zs coming up through school at the moment are awful work-shy little spongers.

How to make your millennial offspring move out

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1 TURN THE WIFI ON AND OFF at random intervals. Plead ignorance.

2 GET HELP FROM YOUR WIDER FAMILY: Ask them to call the landline daily, pick up and say, "Oh, she's just here now - let me pass you over!"

3 PUT HIM ON TINDER and explain who you are and that you need him out. You'll probably have better chat, and there are loads of girls essentially just looking for someone to mind.

4 SLOWLY REMOVE ALL MIRRORS and reflective surfaces.

5 STAY UP EVERY TIME THEY GO OUT and wait at the kitchen table in your dressing gown. Put on the kettle when they get in and relentlessly attempt to engage in pleasant conversation - "Who was there?"; "Did you eat?"; "How did you get home?"; "Any talent?", "What will we have for dinner tomorrow, do you think?"

Question time Are you a middle-aged millennial?

1 You never took to the Millennial Pink but you're only delighted that mustard seems to have come back. Such a versatile colour, with just the right amount of fun!

2 Tinder frightens you, but you like Bumble. You rack up the matches to boost your self-confidence with no fear of actually having to have any conversations with these men.

3 You go to brunch, but you have a full-Irish. You've never tried to give up sugar.

4 You claim not to take selfies and you don't have any of them online, but you secretly like to snap a few when you're feeling particularly good-looking, briefly think about who you could send them to, and delete them immediately in a flood of guilt and mortification.

5 You've attempted Netflix binges, but you feel restless and bored after the fifth hour, and give up. You don't admit this to your friends and colleagues.

6 You don't 'get' Beyonce. Although, to be fair, Survivor is a great tune.It would be remiss not to congratulate Mary Lou McDonald on her election as President of Sinn Fein, as somebody who had twice predicted that this day would not come. Those predictions were based on statements by Gerry Adams that he would lead Sinn Fein into the next election. Within months of his most recent absolute declaration, Adams then announced his intention to step down in advance of that election. The suddenness of his decision has always sat a little curiously with me. Yes, he has been Sinn Fein leader since 1983, but when the announcement came it was out of the blue. The wonder remains, why is it now that Adams has chosen to step down, if not away, and is there more to his decision than meets the eye?

The simple answer may be political expediency, that he has taken the Sinn Fein project as far as he can and that McDonald may take it further. But that is also the lazy assessment and one that is not necessarily true. She may lose the interest of as many Sinn Fein supporters, mostly angry young men, as she will gain and will gain only by moving Sinn Fein to the centre ground, which is easier said than done.

Those angry young men, devoid of a proper understanding of history, may lose interest in a party at least outwardly shorn of its disturbing mix of celebrity and violence.

McDonald is wished well in her future endeavours, but she will need good fortune, and time.

However, I am inclined to agree with the former SDLP deputy leader, the searing Seamus Mallon, that it will take at least another 10 years of "stroking" and "pleasing everybody" before Sinn Fein becomes somewhat normalised, and even then

*****

As Leo Varadkar pointed out last week, during the course of a statement in which he appeared, though did not fully rule out a change to Fine Gael policy against coalition with Sinn Fein, McDonald becomes the third woman to lead a political party in Ireland, the others being Mary Harney and Joan Burton, obviously.

In a speech to commemorate Constance Markievicz and 100 Years of Women's Suffrage last week, Fianna Fail leader, Micheal Martin reminded us to look at the coverage of debates at the time of the Treaty to find account after account dismissing republican women in deeply misogynistic terms.

"I have no doubt that this created an atmosphere in which there were so many steps backwards in the following decades. It is a deep shame that it took a further 60 years before another woman became a member of Cabinet," he said. Indeed.

*****

In this regard, one need look no further than the national poet, WB Yeats, particularly his 'all has changed, changed utterly' poem Easter 1916, in which he refers to Markievicz, Her nights in argument, Until her voice grew shrill. This was not the worst example of an outward misogyny at the time, documented by the historian Diarmaid Ferriter among others, of a kind that some would say is not latent but still evident if not rampant. With that in mind, then, I would venture that I am reminded of Senator Lloyd Bentsen's put down of Dan Quayle, after a fashion: Mary Lou, you are no Constance Markievicz.

I do not think, however, that Seamus Mallon, almost 82, could be accused of misogyny when he said last week that he did not know enough about Mary Lou McDonald, but that she was personable, "looks good on television" and speaks well, as that can and has also been said of Leo Varadkar and Micheal Martin; or, indeed, in relation to her deputy, Michelle O'Neill, of whom Mallon said: "The lady up here will do what she's told. She will say what is written for her. That's her role; nothing more to her role than that." Is that what Arlene Foster might call "Blonde"?

*****

The Independents for Change TD, Clare Daly, in the Dail last week, tackled the Taoiseach about the state of maternity services in Ireland, which was an interesting debate, I suppose, in the context of the abortion referendum. Sometimes there are facts before us which can stun when laid out.

"There is something very wrong in our health service," Daly said. "There were 27 maternal deaths between 2011 and 2013 but only three inquests. The culture of deny and defend has to end." What a shocking statistic: 27 maternal deaths in such a short period.

There is merit to her argument for a mandatory inquest (assuming a family wants one) as opposed to a review in such cases, but it is difficult to agree with one of her conclusions: "I wonder whether we would be waiting this long if men were dying."

Recently, I reported on CSO statistics which revealed that in the second quarter last year there were 115 deaths by suicide of which 94 were men. I am sure Clare Daly would be concerned as to the reasons behind this statistic as men would be that 27 of their mothers, sisters and daughters have died in maternity care between 2011 and 2013.

*****

In the abortion referendum great store is being placed in the #hometovote campaign which was credited with the success of the same sex marriage referendum, the view being that the youth vote will see the referendum passed. That may be so, although I would argue that the grey vote was just as influential in the introduction of same sex marriage.

What then are we to make of a recent publication by the gold standard measure in electoral behaviour in the UK, the British Election Study, which has disabused us of the notion that it was the youth vote which gave rise to Labour's unexpectedly strong performance in the 2017 election?

The theory that Jeremy Corbyn had enthused previously disengaged young voters has been so accepted that the Oxford English Dictionary even declared "youthquake" - a political awakening among millennial voters - its word of the year.

Not so, according to the British Election Study, whose research has found youthquake to be a myth. Turnout in the UK election did go up, but only by 2.5pc. The upshot is that Labour was more popular among young than old voters, and its share of the youth vote did increase.

But winning the support of more young people who vote is not the same as a surge in youth turnout. It is also worth pointing out that Labour's popularity increased among all ages, except those over 70.

*****

While the #hometovote movement may, or not, see the abortion referendum over the line, there is little or no evidence that millennials will greatly influence the next election here.

Everything we know about turnout suggests that voting is "sticky" - most people who vote in one election will vote at subsequent elections, and most who abstain will continue to abstain. That's the youth of today for you, as my father might say. Whatever about referendums, they don't vote in great numbers in general elections.

In other words, Mary Lou McDonald has her work cut out for her. But she is not alone. So too has Leo Varadkar, who would be foolish to rely on millennials charmed by colourful socks (within scuffed shoes) and his liberal credentials to see him over the line next time.Conor Murray of Ireland scores his side's second try during the Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Ireland and Italy at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Conor Murray arriving at Aviva Stadium for the Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Ireland and Italy at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Irish rugby heartthrob Conor Murray is officially off the market - and the beauty who has stolen his heart is none other than model Joanna Cooper, the Herald can reveal.

Joanna represented Ireland in the Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas in 2016 and has since established herself as a busy model, represented by the Andrea Roche modelling agency in Dublin. She moved to London last year to pursue her rising modelling career full-time and counts ASOS as one of her consistent clients - shoppers will often spot the 23-year-old modelling petite looks on the website.

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Whatsapp Model Joanna Cooper. Picture: Instagram

Also on the books of agencies in the UK and Paris, she also recently worked for Agent Provocateur and is a busy commercial model. Conor and Joanna were spotted leaving the Ireland team's hotel The Shelbourne on Sunday afternoon, after celebrating Ireland's 56-19 victory over Italy at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

She later celebrated with the team and their partners, including Johnny Sexton's wife Laura and Rob Kearney's glamorous girlfriend, UCD pharmacy student Jess Redden.

Joanna, who stands at 5'5", is originally from Derry and studied journalism at Belfast University.

Her turn at Miss Universe was a memorable one and after being crowned to represent Ireland just a week before competing in Las Vegas, Cooper said it gave her confidence she never knew she had.

Expand Close Conor Murray arriving at Aviva Stadium for the Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Ireland and Italy at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile / Facebook

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Whatsapp Conor Murray arriving at Aviva Stadium for the Six Nations Rugby Championship match between Ireland and Italy at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

"I didn't know whether to enter or not - I wasn't sure about my height, but mum said 'do it' and made me to go for it," she told the Belfast Telegraph. "The other contestants in Vegas were all towering over me, but I didn't let that intimidate me.

"I was the smallest, I always am, but I came back more confident in myself. I was always with these amazing, tall glamorous girls, but I still felt I fitted in. I didn't feel isolated, I felt I belong. The president assured us we all deserved to be there."

She previously dated fitness instructor David Murdock for three years and Conor previously dated Irish model Shauna Lindsay.A model walks the runway at Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

A model walks the runway at Victoria Beckham fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

A model walks the runway at Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

A model walks the runway at Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

Cruz Beckham, Romeo Beckham are seen leaving a hotel in midtown on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)

In this photo provided by Victoria Beckham, the Victoria Beckham collection is modeled during Fashion Week in New York, Sunday Feb. 11, 2018. (Courtesy of Victoria Beckham via AP)

David Beckham, Harper Beckham are seen leaving a hotel in midtown on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)

Victoria Beckham seen on the streets of Manhattan on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by James Devaney/GC Images)

A model walks the runway at Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

A model walks the runway at Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

(L-R) Designer Victoria Beckham, Romeo Beckham, Harper Beckham, Cruz Beckham and David Beckham attend the Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

(L-R) Designer Victoria Beckham, Romeo Beckham, Harper Beckham, Cruz Beckham and David Beckham attend the Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

Designer Victoria Beckham (L) and David Beckham attend the Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

(L-R) Designer Victoria Beckham, Harper Beckham, Cruz Beckham and David Beckham attend the Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

Designer Victoria Beckham walks the runway at Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

Victoria Beckham bowed out of New York Fashion Week with a bang.

The 43-year-old fashion designer showed the latest line of her eponymous collection on Sunday during New York Fashion Week, commanding an A-list front row comprised largely of her family. Despite the heavyweight names like US Vogue editor Anna Wintour in attendance, all eyes were, as usual, on her husband David and their three youngest children Romeo (15), Cruz (12) and Harper (six).

Expand Close David Beckham, Harper Beckham are seen leaving a hotel in midtown on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images) / Facebook

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Whatsapp David Beckham, Harper Beckham are seen leaving a hotel in midtown on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)

Their oldest son Brooklyn (18) is believed to be in Los Angeles with girlfriend Chloe Grace Moretz. It was fitting that yesterday's show ended on such a high as it marked her last time appearing in NYFW and she will be join other top British and international designers in the London Fashion Week scheduling from September.

"It feels like the right way to round off showing in New York," she said of the early 20th century mansion she transformed into a runway, according to The Guardian. "Its more intimate, like my first shows were. I wanted this to be a nice thing to do on a Sunday morning. I want people to enjoy coming to my shows."

Expand Close (L-R) Designer Victoria Beckham, Harper Beckham, Cruz Beckham and David Beckham attend the Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images) / Facebook

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Whatsapp (L-R) Designer Victoria Beckham, Harper Beckham, Cruz Beckham and David Beckham attend the Victoria Beckham - fashion show February 2018 during New York Fashion Week on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by JP Yim/Getty Images)

Beckham first showed at NYFW 10 years ago and her return to London also makes a new chapter in her career: one as a serious designer, no longer competing to be seen as more than just another celebrity indulging a hobby.

She also confirmed that she hasn't been commissioned to design Meghan Markle's wedding dress this May and that the Spice Girls won't be touring after rumours began to swirl following their much hyped reunion - even it was just for Instagram.

Expand Close Cruz Beckham, Romeo Beckham are seen leaving a hotel in midtown on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Cruz Beckham, Romeo Beckham are seen leaving a hotel in midtown on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)Joanna Cooper in her official Miss Universe portrait

Miss Ireland Sacha Livingstone at Miss World in the Top Model challenge

Joanna Cooper (left) at Miss Universe and Sacha Livingstone (right) at Miss World

The battle of the international beauty queens has begun.

While Derry native Joanna Cooper (20) represents Ireland at the Miss Universe competition in Las Vegas, Antrims Sacha Livingstone (20) is in Sanya, China vying for the Miss World title.

And both models will be taking to the stage of their respective competitions just 24 hours apart. The Miss World final takes place on Saturday, December 19th while the Miss Universe competition wraps on Sunday, December 20.

Cooper, a journalism student at Queens University in Belfast and dead ringer for supermodel Cara Delevingne, has been making waves on social media, with many commenters predicting shell land a place in the top 15.

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While Sacha, who works full-time as a model, has been more low-key about her participation, but previously revealed her desire to take home the Miss World crown as Rosanna Davison did in 2003.

The winner of the Miss Universe pageant will move to New York for 12 months to live in Trump Place as tycoon Donald Trump owns the franchise.

The Miss World title holder is allowed to reside in their home country but is required to travel around the world for work. A winner is chosen through five different rounds of judging including Beauty with a Purpose, Multimedia, Sports, Talent, and Top Model.British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has held top level talks with Myanmar's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi on the Rohingya refugee crisis.

More than 600,000 men, women and children are estimated to have fled to neighbouring Bangladesh following persecution from the Myanmar military in their native state of Rakhine, which began in August.

During a visit to Myanmar, Mr Johnson said his hour-long meeting with Ms Suu Kyi had centred on the refugee situation.

"I spoke to her about my own experience witnessing the terrible conditions of the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, and my deep concern about their future," Mr Johnson said.

"I underlined the importance of the Burmese authorities carrying out a full and independent investigation into the violence in Rakhine, and to hold to account those responsible for human rights violations.

"I underlined the urgency of creating the conditions in Rakhine that could make it a safe place for the Rohingya refugees to return to, free from fear, and in the knowledge that their basic rights will be respected and upheld."The admission comes at an awkward moment for Halbe Zijlstra, as he prepares for his first visit to Russia as Dutch foreign minister (AP)

Dutch foreign minister Halbe Zijlstra has admitted lying about attending a meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin as he prepares for his first visit to Russia as a member of the government.

Mr Zijlstra has issued a statement confirming the admission he made in an interview published in the respected Dutch daily De Volkskrant.

He has in the past said he was present as an employee of energy giant Shell at Mr Putins country retreat in 2006, when the Russian president said he considered Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic states as part of a Greater Russia.

In a written statement, Mr Zijlstra said that he was not present at the meeting, but heard a story from somebody who was there. He said he considered Mr Putins statements so geopolitically important that he spoke about them publicly and took credit for hearing the comments as a way of protecting his source.

The manner in which I wanted to protect my source and underscore my message about Russia was not sensible, that is crystal clear, Mr Zijlstra said.

He is due to fly to Moscow for a meeting with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov.UK ministers have launched an investigation into claims that foreign aid officials brushed off allegations of child abuse committed by aid workers.

Priti Patel, who ran the Department for International Development (Dfid) until November, said that the Oxfam prostitution scandal was "the tip of the iceberg" but that her own officials "dismissed" her concerns when she raised them.

Oxfam, one of the world's largest charities, is facing mounting criticism over its handling of sex allegations but has denied it tried to cover up the use of prostitutes by workers who were supposed to be helping victims of an earthquake in Haiti in 2011.

Paul Goldring, the charity's chief executive, will meet Penny Mordaunt, the UK's International Development Secretary, today after she threatened to withdraw millions of pounds of government funding to Oxfam.

He is expected to insist that Oxfam did not inform ministers of the abuse allegations in 2011 because it decided staff accused of paying prostitutes were not guilty of exchanging "sex for aid".

Ms Mordaunt said the British charity had lied and failed in its "moral leadership" in the wake of the allegations.

Ms Patel, in an article in today's 'Daily Telegraph', raises the political pressure on Ms Mordaunt by claiming that Dfid officials had failed to take her concerns seriously. She adds that the department's civil servants failed to support her when she tried to raise concerns at the UN last September.

She says she had tried to ensure "accountability not just on aid effectiveness, but also the sexual abuse, not just of adults, but also the rape of children".

She says: "I would like to say that I was supported and presented with facts from the department laying out the long history that UK governments, Labour and Conservative, had in tackling this global problem. Sadly, I can't. When I raised this issue in Dfid, it was dismissed." ( Daily Telegraph, London)

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021]Four people have been killed (AP)

Four people have been killed after a truck struck two cars on a German highway, pushing the smaller vehicles under another trailer.

Mannheim police said the incident happened on the A5 Autobahn near the town of Walldorf in south-west Germany.

A woman was extracted from the wreckage and flown by helicopter to a hospital with serious injuries. The two truck drivers were unharmed.

A seven-car pileup in the opposite lane injured three people, in what police described as a rubbernecking accident.The family of Indian army soldier Madan Lal Choudhary attend his funeral after the weekend attack (AP)

Indias defence minister has said the Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed was behind an attack on an army camp in Indian-controlled Kashmir  and warned Islamabad that it would pay for this misadventure.

Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters in Jammu, the site of the attack, that New Delhi would present Pakistan with evidence of the involvement of the outlawed militant group and its leader Masood Azhar, who derived support from Pakistan.

Pakistans foreign ministry said it rejected all insinuations from Indian officials and media, adding: We are confident that the world community would take due cognisance of Indias smear campaign against Pakistan, and the deliberate creation of war hysteria.

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At least three armed men attacked the Sunjuwan army camp at dawn on Saturday and fought Indian troops for more than 48 hours while holed up in the residential area of the camp. The attack left five soldiers and one civilian dead and 11 others injured.

In 2016, India blamed the same group for an attack on another army camp in Indian-held Kashmir that left 17 soldiers dead.

In continuing violence in the troubled Himalayan region, one paramilitary soldier was killed on Monday when two gunmen opened fire near a paramilitary camp in Srinagar, the regions main city.

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Kashmir is divided between India and arch-rival Pakistan. Both claim the region in its entirety.

Anti-Indian sentiment runs deep among Kashmirs mostly Muslim population.

Several militant groups have been fighting for Kashmirs independence from India or its merger with Pakistan since 1989. Around 70,000 people have been killed in the uprising and the ensuing Indian military crackdown.

India accuses Pakistan of arming and training the militants, a charge it denies.Contemporary music rapper Julius Owino, who is better known by his stage name Juliani, is all set for a mega comeback. The Exponential Potential rapper has been missing in action for a while now but says 2018 is the year of big projects.

In just the first quarter of the year, the rapper has lined up several concerts including an album launch slated for April 21.

I am around, though I chose to keep a low profile as I introspect on my life. I was also planning on rebranding so that when I bounce back into the music scene, I can go for another ten to 15 years  nonstop  without sounding monotonous. Simply, put: I took time off to relax and restrategise. I would have chosen to go the easier route  to bounce back and imitate what other successful musicians do. Though, such copy-paste strategies rarely work for the long term, said Juliani.

In 2018, I have a lot of projects lined up for my fans. I will be dropping my album on April 21.

The rappers concerts kicked off last weekend with The Kenyan Love Story on Saturday, February 10 and Sunday, February 11 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

The Kenyan Love Story is about how citizens of different demographics view the culture and general practice of the Kenyan people, explained Juliani.

On March 21, 22, 23 and 24 I will be having back-to-back concerts. The first three days of the four, I will be performing my albums  Mtaa Mentality, Pulpit kwa Street and Exponential potential.

On March 24, I will perform a mixture of the three albums; and later on the same date, hold a listening party ahead of the launch of my next album on April 21.

The rapper, who is a father of a 3-year-old baby girl, Amor, also spoke about fatherhood saying it has been quite an experience.

Fatherhood is taking me well. Niko poa. Actually, my daughter has begun schooling; she joined school in January 2018. So, anapiga piga raundi huko. Inambamba, he said.

I thank God for His grace in helping Brenda and I raise the baby to this stage. Theres no clear manual for bringing up a child, ni guesswork and Gods guidance.

In this world of today, you can never say you are a hundred percent sure of how to protect your child. Its Gods guidance which gives the way forward.

On the alleged break up with Brenda Wairimu, Juliani said; I dont think people care genuinely about whats happening in my private life. Unless one is idle, they dont care. People often respond to the information you make available to them. If a section of social media users claimed that Brenda and I have broken up, I think they were saying that for fun purposes, nothing serious, said Juliani.

I have never given someone any reason to suspect my love life was on the rocks.

Brenda and I are doing fine, were closely knit. I dont think theres any reason for us to fight, or claim that we are at loggerheads.

On the secret to success, the award-winning musician said its all about taking a risk.

My little secret for success, which could be relative before the eyes of some people, is risk-taking. If one wants to be successful, he or she should never fear trying out new ways of doing things; they should not fear being exposed to vulnerability. If one does not make mistakes, he or she never learns.Emergency investigators are searching the fields for human remains and aircraft debris (AP)

Emergency teams are searching snow-covered fields for human remains and debris after a Russian airliner crashed outside Moscow, killing all 71 people on board.

The An-148 twin-engine internal flight, heading for Orsk in the southern Urals, went down minutes after taking off from Moscows Domodedovo airport on Sunday.

All 65 passengers and six crew on board were killed.

Russian transport minister Maxim Sokolov said the search for victims remains will take a week. He added that the emergency teams have already found the planes flight data recorder, which is crucial for determining the cause of the crash.

Investigators quickly ruled out a terror attack, but will not speculate on possible reasons for the crash.

The plane was operated by Saratov Airlines, which said the aircraft had undergone all the necessary checks.A court has sentenced the leader of an Islamic State group-affiliated militant network in Indonesia to seven years in prison for involvement in smuggling guns from the southern Philippines.

It had been proven that Zainal Anshori committed a criminal act of terrorism, Presiding Judge Siti Jamzanah said at East Jakarta District Court on Monday.

She said Anshori had travelled to a town in Sulawesi closest to the Indonesian border with the southern Philippines to collect a cache of weapons.

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Court documents said he also attempted to set up a jihadist training camp.

Anshori was arrested in April, sparking a reprisal attack against police which ended with six militants being killed in a gun battle.

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The network he led, Jamaah Anshorut Daulah, is believed to have been responsible for a 2016 attack in Jakarta that killed eight people including the four attackers.Hallyday left all his property and artistic rights to his widow, Laeticia

The daughter of late French rocker Johnny Hallyday plans to contest her fathers will, which leaves all his property and artistic rights exclusively to his widow Laeticia.

Laura Smet discovered the contents of Hallydays will with amazement and pain, a note from her lawyers said.

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The communique added that not a guitar, not a motorbike, and not even the signed cover of the song Laura which is dedicated to her has been left to Ms Smet.

Her lawyers said the will  signed under Californian law  is contradicted by French law.

Laetitia Hallyday was the fourth wife of the man dubbed the French Elvis, who died in December.Smoke rises from a missile, which according to the Lebanon national news agency, appears to be part of a Syrian air defence missile targeting an Israeli warplane. Photo: AP

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said yesterday that Israeli forces would press ahead with Syria operations despite their loss of an advanced warplane to enemy fire for the first time in 36 years.

Syrian anti-aircraft fire downed the F-16 as it returned from a bombing raid on Iran-backed positions in Syria early on Saturday.

The Iran-backed forces are supporting President Bashar al-Assad in Syria's near seven-year civil war.

Israel then launched a second and more intensive air raid, hitting what it said were 12 Iranian and Syrian targets in Syria, including Syrian air defence systems.

However, Israel and Syria have both signalled they are not seeking wider conflict and yesterday their frontier was calm, though Mr Netanyahu struck a defiant tone in remarks to his cabinet broadcast by Israeli media.

"Yesterday we landed hard blows on the forces of Iran and Syria. We made unequivocally clear to everyone that our modus operandi has not changed one bit," he said.

Iran's involvement in Syria, including the deployment of Iran-backed forces near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, has alarmed Israel, which has said it would counter any threat. Israel also has accused Iran of planning to build precision-guided missile factories in Lebanon.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said Israel's strikes on Saturday had killed at least six people from Syrian government and allied forces. Syrian state media has yet to disclose any casualties or damage.

The downing of the F-16 over northern Israel - as the airforce struck back for what it said was an incursion by an Iranian drone launched from Syria - was a rare setback for a country that relies on regional military supremacy.

Security cabinet minister Yuval Steinitz told Israel Radio the Iranian drone was modelled on the US RQ-170 drone that was downed in Iran in 2011. The US Embassy did not immediately comment.

The jet's two-man crew survived with injuries, and Israeli generals insisted they had inflicted much greater damage in Syria - even as Damascus claimed a strategic gain in the decades-old standoff with its old foe to the south.

Israel said it had destroyed three Syrian anti-aircraft batteries and four targets "that are part of Iran's military establishment" in Syria during Saturday's raids.

"This is the broadest attack on Syria's defence systems since (Operation) Peace for the Galilee," air force Brigadier-General Amnon Ein Dar told Army Radio, referring to Israel's 1982 Lebanon offensive, in which it battled Syrian forces.

It was also the first downing of an Israeli warplane by enemy fire since that conflict.

In Syria, the pro-government 'al-Watan' newspaper said the country's air defences had "destroyed the myth of Israeli air superiority in the region".

Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah group, which fights in support of Assad in Syria, spoke of the "start of a new strategic phase" that would limit Israel's activity in Syrian airspace, where Israeli planes have regularly attacked suspected weapons shipments to the Islamist movement.

Both the United States, Israel's closest ally, and Russia, which supports Assad in the Syrian civil war, have expressed concern over the latest clashes.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson was due to begin a previously scheduled visit to the region yesterday, expecting what a state department official said would be "tough conversations".William Cordoba (57) claimed Silvia Pulido started sexually abusing him after hiring him as a clerk in her office trailer at California's San Quentin State Prison.

A convicted murderer has won more than $65,000 (52,000) in damages after claiming an instructor at a notorious US jail turned him into her "sex slave".

William Cordoba (57) claimed Silvia Pulido started sexually abusing him after hiring him as a clerk in her office trailer at California's San Quentin State Prison.

He described in his legal action how Ms Pulido started flirting with him by saying "Get closer, I don't bite".

Cordoba said they first had sex in May 2010 after she put her hand over his on a computer mouse and said: "Here, let me help you do this faster."

Three days later Ms Pulido, a janitorial vocational instructor, changed the locks on her office so that nobody could walk in on them during sex, he said.

Cordoba was forced to be her "sex slave" after she promised to help pay for a lawyer to work on his case, according to his legal claim.

When he tried to back out of the abuse, Ms Pulido took revenge accusing him of harassment and he ended up spending nine months in solitary confinement, he said.

The prison worker's attorney argued Cordoba was delusional.

A jury awarded Cordoba $15,414 (12.541) for harm and $50,000 (40,682) in punitive damages following a six-day trial at the US District Court in Oakland, California..

All people have the right to be free from sexual abuse," Cordoba's lawyer Julia Allen told the New York Daily News.

"That doesn't change just because a person is incarcerated.

Cordoba is serving a life sentence for a second-degree murder and robbery in San Francisco in 1981.Donald Trump Jr. and wife Vanessa arrive on the red carpet for the annual White House Correspondents Association Dinner in Washington, US on April 30, 2016. Photo: Reuters Jonathan Ernst

Donald Trump Jrs wife Vanessa has been taken to a New York hospital after opening an envelope containing white powder, police said

A preliminary test indicated the substance was not dangerous.

Vanessa Trump (40) opened the letter addressed to the president's son on Monday morning at their midtown Manhattan apartment. She called 911 and said she was coughing and felt nauseous, police said.

The Trump Organisation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

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Detectives from the New York Police Department's intelligence division and Secret Service agents are investigating.

"The Secret Service and our law enforcement partners in New York City are investigating a suspicious package addressed to one of our protectees received today in New York, New York. This is an active investigation and we cannot comment any further," Secret Service Special Agent Jeffrey Adams said.

Vanessa Trump, a former model, and Donald Trump Jr have five children, none of whom were home at the time of the incident.

In March 2016, police detectives and FBI agents investigated a threatening letter sent to the Manhattan apartment of Donald Trump Jr's brother, Eric, that also contained a white powder that turned out to be harmless.

Envelopes containing white powder were also sent to Trump Tower, which served as Mr Trump's campaign headquarters, twice in 2016.

Hoax attacks using white powder play on fears that date to 2001, when letters containing deadly anthrax were mailed to news organisations and the offices of two US senators. Those letters killed five people.The father of a young British woman who was killed in a helicopter crash in the Grand Canyon has described his daughter as "full of life" and "always happy".

Becky Dobson (27) was on a US holiday with boyfriend Stuart Hill (30) and his brother Jason Hill (32) when they were killed in the helicopter crash at 5.20pm local time on Saturday.

Ellie Milward (29), Jonathan Udall (32) and Jennifer Barham (39) were airlifted to University Medical Centre in Las Vegas, Nevada, along with pilot Scott Booth, 42, according to Arizona Central.

Ms Dobson's father Peter Dobson told the Press Association that Becky was "full of life and looking forward to going to Vegas for her boyfriend's 30th birthday to celebrate".

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"She was always happy," he said.

"They were really happy together, they were always going out and doing things, just enjoyed being with each other. The whole thing is just terrible."

Dramatic images of the crash site show the wreckage lying at the bottom of a canyon, engulfed in flames.

One picture appears to show a female survivor, wearing jeans and a white top, fleeing the scene as the fire rages behind her.

Expand Close In this Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, photo, a survivor, lower right, walks away from the scene of a deadly tour helicopter crash along the jagged rocks of the Grand Canyon, in Arizona. (Teddy Fujimoto via AP) / Facebook

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Whatsapp In this Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, photo, a survivor, lower right, walks away from the scene of a deadly tour helicopter crash along the jagged rocks of the Grand Canyon, in Arizona. (Teddy Fujimoto via AP)

Local media reports claim it took rescuers more than eight hours to get to the survivors and they were not airlifted from the scene until around 2am on Sunday.

Jonathan Udall, from Southampton, is currently being treated in hospital.

Lionel Douglass had been attending a wedding on a bluff about 1,000 yards away from where the helicopter burst into flames.

He told ABC News: "I had taken my phone and I was zooming in to see if I could see anybody and a lady walked out of the flames and I just lost it."

He said he saw the helicopter fall and hit the bottom with the "biggest explosion you ever heard and then flames like you never seen before".

A series of smaller blasts followed, according to reports.

Hualapai Police chief Francis Bradley said: "It's a very tragic incident.

"Yesterday, we were hampered by severe weather conditions, we had gusts up to 50mph.

"The terrain where the crash occurred... is extremely rugged."

He told ABC News the tour originated in Boulder City, Nevada, and that a storm was rolling into the area at the time of the crash.

Mr Bradley described the weather conditions as "not normal", but said no flight restrictions were in place.

He told News3LV that darkness and an initial lack of air support hampered the rescue effort.

Jason Hill was a corporate solicitor in Milton Keynes for firm Shoosmiths.

Ms Dobson had worked as a receptionist at Vets4Pets in Worthing, Surrey. On the company's website she wrote: "I love my job and I am hoping to one day fulfil my dream of becoming a Veterinary Nurse!"

The helicopter tour was run by Papillon. The company's website states: "With more than 50 years flying the Grand Canyon and beyond, Papillon is the largest and most experienced helicopter tour operator in the world."

It further says: "At Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, safety is our top priority."

In a statement reported by local news, Papillon Group chief executive Brenda Halvorson said: "It is with extreme sadness we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families involved in this accident.

"Our top priority is the care and needs of our passengers and our staff."

Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Allen Kenitzer said the Eurocopter EC130 crashed in unknown circumstances and sustained heavy damage.

An investigation will take place.

A Foreign Office spokeswoman said: "We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on February 10, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services."Crooner Vic Damone has died in Florida at the age of 89, his family said.

Damones mellow baritone brought him million-selling records and sustained a career lasting half a century in recordings, movies, concerts and television appearances.

Frank Sinatra once said he had the best pipes in the business.

Victoria Damone said her father died on Sunday at a Miami Beach hospital from complications related to a respiratory illness.

Damone had been living in retirement in Palm Beach with his fifth wife, Rena Rowan, who died in November 2016.

His hit singles included Again, Youre Breaking My Heart, My Heart Cries for You, On the Street Where You Live and, in 1957, the title song to the Cary Grant film An Affair To Remember.Whenever he steps on the stage, Churchill Show comedian Duncan Kipkemei Kirwa is a sure bet to crack up his audience.

In just five months, Duncan, 25, who portrays a witty story-telling character Wambilianga, has cemented his place on the comedy show due to his unique style.

With the increasing fame that he seems to be amassing every single day, people have been asking more about the funny man.

He spoke to Buzz and heres all you need to know.

First things first, how did you end up on the Churchill Show?

It was in August 2017 when Churchill and his team were touring different regions in the country to identify fresh comic talent. I heard of the auditions planned for Eldoret and my friends encouraged me to try. When I got to the auditions on the set date, I found about 100 others ready to fight it out; that made me nervous. But I chose to do my thing as I had prepared to do and when my time came, I cracked up the judges. They loved my sense of humor and when I was picked they recommended me to join the main live recording team that I have remained a part of to date.

Your stage name, Wambilianga, how did it come about?

I started by using my real name, Duncan, on stage. However, it got to a point when I felt I needed to a have a name that identified with the character I portray and Wambilianga was the immediate name that crossed my mind. I find the name to be funny and thats how I stuck with it.

Your tagline on stage, Waaaaah has become very popular with the crowd and fellow comedians, is it for the show or is it part of your normal way of talking?

Honestly, I never thought it would turn out to be humorous but I guess it did because of the manner in which I pronounce it and before I knew it everybody had noticed. However, I often use it to transition from one joke to another. I am glad it did add some flavour to my style.

Youre from the Rift Valley region but your comic style is heavily borrowed from the Western region?

I know right? My work is to make people laugh and in so doing, I have to look for content that befits my character Wambilianga. Besides, I can comfortably do several accents  Nigerian, Luhya and coastal. Sometimes my jokes depend on the mood of the day.

How hard is it to make people laugh?

I really dont know because in most instances whenever I open my mouth people just burst into laughter even when I am not trying to make them. I think am naturally funny, just like Eric Omondi whom the other day posted a picture enjoying a holiday with his girlfriend but the public saw something else and made fun out of it (laughs)!

On a normal day, how do you prepare for a show?

I have a team that I work with headed by my scriptwriter Joyrider with whom I write the jokes. We rehearse them and polish up where necessary. After that, I present it to the Churchill team during the auditions on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday who will go over them for approval and if a joke meets the standards I get booked for the live recording show.

Have you ever offended someone with your jokes?

Yes, I have. It has happened several times but not intentionally. One occasion that I remember is when I was cracking a joke about fat people when suddenly a woman in the midst of the crowd stood up and demanded an apology. However, I was lucky as the rest of the audience ganged up and cooled her by asking her to understand that it was a comedy show.

Has being on the Churchill Show changed your life?

Tremendously. Because through that platform I was able to land a job as a radio presenter with Mediamaxxs Emo FM that broadcasts in Kalenjin. I have also been able to get gigs as an MC and currently, Im preparing for my USA tour in the next few weeks. It has been a blessing to me.

Has the newfound fame affected you?

Not at all, Im still the guy next door just doing my usual stuff. Its just a status, nothing much.

How do you handle the pressure especially from female fans?

I am a family man, got married sometime back, that has at least helped to keep me in check and grounded.

Has it been easy for your wife handling her husbands new celebrity status?

At first, it wasnt easy for her because I got married before fame. We would argue a lot more so when we had shows that required me to travel for a couple of days but over time she got used to it and we have been good.

What is it that you miss before you became famous?

Hahaha! So much stuff but the main one is that I can no longer go to the local pubs and enjoy my pocket-friendly beer Keg because paparazzi are always on the lookout and ready to blog with negative stories.

For how long do you plan to keep doing comedy?

As you know comedy has no pension plan and I cant do this forever. Thats why I have started venturing into various businesses as a contingency plan.A woman holds a national flag during the funeral prayers for pilot Lt commander Mehmet Ilker Karaman, 32, who was killed during operations against Syrian Kurdish militants (AP)

Turkeys foreign minister has claimed that American forces in Syria are intentionally stalling the fight against Islamic State militants as an excuse to maintain ties with Syrian Kurdish militiamen, against Ankaras wishes.

Mevlut Cavusoglu said US forces are leaving pockets with IS militants intact to justify continued co-operation with the Kurdish militia.

Speaking ahead of a visit by US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson later this week, Mr Cavusoglu said Turkeys ties with the US are at a make-or-break stage, and that Washington needs to take concrete steps to regain Turkeys trust.

Our relations are at a very critical stage, Mr Cavusoglu said. Either we will improve ties or these ties will totally break down.

Ankara is riled over Washingtons support for the Syrian Kurdish Peoples Protection Units (YPG)  the top US ally in the fight against IS.

The government considers the YPG a terrorist group linked to Kurdish insurgents fighting within Turkeys own borders.

Turkeys military launched a cross-border operation into the Syrian Kurdish-held enclave of Afrin in northern Syria to rout the YPG from the region.

Ankara has also threatened to expand its offensive to the YPG-held town of Manbij, east of Afrin, where the US has a military presence, setting the scene for a potential showdown between the two Nato allies who back different sides in Syrias complex and multi-layered civil war.Donald Trump Jrs wife was taken to a New York City hospital as a precaution on Monday after she opened an envelope addressed to her husband that contained an unidentified white powder, police said.

A preliminary test indicated the substance was not dangerous.

Vanessa Trump, 40, opened the letter addressed to the presidents son on Monday morning at their midtown Manhattan apartment. She called 911 and said she was coughing and felt nauseous, police said.

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The Trump Organisation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Detectives from the New York Police Departments intelligence division and Secret Service agents are investigating.

The Secret Service and our law enforcement partners in New York City are investigating a suspicious package addressed to one of our protectees received today in New York, New York. This is an active investigation and we cannot comment any further, Secret Service Special Agent Jeffrey Adams said.

Vanessa Trump, a former model, and Donald Trump Jr have five children, none of whom were home at the time of the incident.

In March 2016, police detectives and FBI agents investigated a threatening letter sent to the Manhattan apartment of Donald Trump Jrs brother, Eric, that also contained a white powder that turned out to be harmless.

Envelopes containing white powder were also sent to Trump Tower, which served as Mr Trumps campaign headquarters, twice in 2016.

Hoax attacks using white powder play on fears that date to 2001, when letters containing deadly anthrax were mailed to news organisations and the offices of two US senators. Those letters killed five people.The investment would focus on scaling up technology, ensuring seamless experience for partner restaurants, users and riders across all the metros and other key cities in the country. Additionally, the company plans to hire 25000 delivery riders in the next 12 to 15 months.



With a focus on strengthening relationships with partner restaurants, Foodpanda is going to enable them with robust backend technology and provide assistance through their own delivery network. The company also looks forward to creating targeted interventions for key partner restaurants to create a significant long term business value. A strong technology backend and a dense logistics network would also ensure better services for present and prospective customers.

The investment will focus on creating transparent, more efficient and time saving procedures for delivery logistics. The investment would also entail partner and rider recognition programs for better performance.

Commenting on the announcement, Pranay Jivrajka, CEO, Foodpanda India said, Creating a strong delivery ecosystem backed by technology is one of the most fundamental needs of the Indian food tech industry. We at Foodpanda recognise this and are investing INR 400 crores to further strengthen our delivery network across all the metros and other key cities. Adding further, Pranay said, We are also ramping up our last mile connect by hiring 25000 delivery riders. This is inline with our go to market strategy to make a difference in the food ordering experience of our restaurant partners, customers and riders.

This announcement comes at an opportune time when the country is witnessing unprecedented growth especially in the food tech and services sector. Additionally, owing to increasing urbanisation, growth in the Internet population, higher disposable incomes and rising preference for online food ordering, Foodpanda is gearing itself to significantly grow the percentage of orders that are fulfilled by the depth and expanse of its delivery services.Muscat, Feb 12 (IBNS): Visiting Muscat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi pointed that his government is working to develop next generation infrastructure in the country by keeping in mind the needs of 21st century.

"Next generation infrastructure is being developed in country keeping in mind the needs of 21st century," Modi said as he was addressed nearly 20,000 people who had gathered at the Sultan Qaboos Stadium in Muscat on Sunday.

He said Indian diaspora has played an essential role in strengthening Indo-Oman ties.

Modi said his government is following the policy of minimum government, maximum governance.

"With the mantra of minimum government, maximum governance, we are trying to make life easy for the people, emphasised PM Modi," Modi said.

Highlighting the new moves by his government, the Indian PM said poor are given life and safety insurance on just 90 paise per day and a premium of only 1 Rupee per month.

Modi arrived in Oman after completing his trip to the UAE.

Agartala, Feb 12 (IBNS): With few days to go for the state poll, BJP President Amit Shah on Monday asserted that the next Tripura government will be formed by the saffron brigade.

Addressing a press conference in the state capital, Shah said: "Firstly I want to assure that the next government in Tripura will be formed by the BJP."

Accusing the CPI-M of poor performance in the state, Shah said: "People have anger over the misrule of CPI-M government across the state. Due to the CPI-M rule, the state is

still backward in terms of development."

He even claimed that the states ruled by the BJP or NDA are ahead in development. "States ruled by the BJP and NDA are far ahead in development, in terms of electricity, water supply, infrastructure, business" Shah said.

He even attacked Chief Minister Manik Sarkar and his government for the rise of unemployment in the state. " In 25 years of CPM rule, the number of unemployed youths rose to 7.33 lakh from 25,000."

The BJP President has alleged the ruling CPI-M to abduct one BJP's booth worker, whose dead body was later found hanging from a tree.

The CPI-M-ruled government, under Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, is in power in Tripura for 25 years.

Manik Sarkar is the longest serving CPI-M Chief Minister after Jyoti Basu, who was at the helm in West Bengal.

The state poll is scheduled to be held on Feb 18.

The BJP, which has stormed the north and northeast India in last few years, is trying to keep its footprint in the eastern state of India.

CPI-M and CPI together are having 51 out of total 60 seats in the state.New Delhi, Feb 12 (IBNS): Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday condemned the speech by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangha (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, who said his organisation can prepare an Army within three days for the country.

Rahul took to Twitter to accuse Bhagwat of disrespecting the Indian Army and martyrs through his speech.

The Congress chief's tweet reads: "The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army."

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation.



It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it.



Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

Addressing the workers at Zila school in Muzaffarpur, Bihar on Sunday, Bhagwat said: "Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so."

The RSS chief was quoted by NDTV.

Bhagwat even added to say that the RSS is like a family organisation where workers are trained like the Army.



Image: facebook.com/rahulgandhiJammu, Feb 12 (IBNS): The Sunjuwan attack in the state of Jammu and Kashmir may have cost several precious lives but also left with a miraculous birth of a baby girl.

A 35-week old pregnant lady, who was shot at her lower back, has given birth to a baby through C section.

The lady, after being attacked, was immediately taken to hospital where she gave birth to her child, weighted 2.5 kgs on delivery.

Both the mother and the child are now safe.

Five soldiers and a civilian have been killed during 30-hour-long gunbattle which started on Saturday morning after heavily armed terrorists had stormed the Sunjawan army camp in Jammu city .

Defence Spokesman told IBNS in Jammu that four terrorists were also killed who were hold up near the residential quarters inside the camp.

Four dead bodies of terrorists wearing army combat dress and was heavily armed. AK-56 rifles, under barrel grenade launchers, ammunition and grenades were recovered, Defence spokesman said on Sunday.

The operation now mainly focuses on evacuation of people from family quarters, spokesman said.

The five martyred Army personnel include Sub. Madan Lal Choudhary (1st Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, JAK LI), Sub. Mohd Ashraf Mir (1st JAK LI), Hav. Habib-Ullah Qurashi (1st JAK LI), NK Manzoor Ahmed (1st JAK LI) and L/NK Mohd Iqbal (1st JAK LI).

The civilian, who was killed, has been identified as the father of L/NK Mohd Iqbal.Srinagar, Feb 12 (IBNS) : Two days after the deadly Sujwan terror attack, a constable was killed in a gunfight with suspected militants after the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) foiled an attack on its camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar area early on Monday, reports said.

According to reports, at around 4am, a guard of the camp located near the SMHS Hospital noticed two armed men moving towards the camp. He fired, forcing them to flee from the bylanes, media reports quoted a CRPF spokesperson as saying.

As the militants could not enter the camp, they took refuge in some abandoned buildings nearby. The CRPF cordoned off the area, after which there was an intermittent exchange of fire in which CRPFs jawan Mujahid Khan was killed.

The deceased constable was associated with 49 battalion of the paramilitary force.

The fight is going till last reports came in.

The attack comes two days after suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed militants attacked the Sunjuwan Army camp in Jammu. Five soldiers, a civilian and three militants were killed in the attack, while six soldiers and six civilians were reportedly injuredMascut, Feb 12 (IBNS) : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday participated in the India-Oman business meet and wooed the local businessmen to invest in India.

"Participated in the India-Oman Business meet this morning. There are immense possibilities for closer economic cooperation between India and Oman. Such cooperation benefits our citizens tremendously," Modi tweeted.

According to reports, the PM, who is on the last leg of his three gulf nation-tour, talked about India's economic prowess and the investment opportunities in the country.

India and Oman signed eight agreements, including on cooperation in the field of defence, health and tourism, as Modi held wide-ranging talks with Oman Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said on Sunday.

On Monday, he also had a meeting with Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmood Al-Said.

"Had a great meeting with HH Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmood Al-Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers. Our talks will add more vigour to India-Oman relations," Modi said in another tweet.

He also held talks with Sayyid Asa'ad bin Tariq Al Said, , Omans Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs.

Modi said, "Our discussions were extremely productive."

In a series of tweets, Modi described his Oman visit as one he will cherish for a long time and thanked the Oman Sultan for his hospitality.

"This Oman visit is one I will cherish for a long time to come. This visit has helped in building upon the centuries old ties between our enterprising people, and will impart a substantial momentum to our relations in all spheres, including trade and investment relations.".

"Thank you Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos for your exceptional warmth, hospitality and friendship, as also your personal attention to details, that made my visit to Oman one of the most memorable visits I have undertaken anywhere," he said.

"Your Majesty Sultan Qaboos, my deep gratitude to you and the people of Oman for the tremendous support, goodwill and affection. We are deeply honoured and we look forward to the forthcoming 50th anniversary of your stewardship of Oman," said another tweet.

Before leaving Oman for India on Monday, Modi visited the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and offered prayers at the Shiva temple in Muscat.

"Feeling extremely blessed to pray at the Shiva temple in Muscat," he tweeted.New Delhi, Feb 12 (IBNS): Defending its chief Mohan Bhagwat, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangha (RSS) on Monday said the former's Army remark has been "misrepresented", media reports said.

The RSS has said Bhagwat's comment was distorted.

Addressing the workers at Zila school in Muzaffarpur, Bihar on Sunday, Bhagwat said: "Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so."

Bhagwat even added to say that the RSS is like a family organisation where workers are trained like the Army.

RSS ideologue Rakesh Sinha too came out in support of Bhagwat.

He tweeted: "Mohan Bhagwat ji said to create a new contingent of army procedures followed for recruitment,training which takes time, @RSSorg swyamsevaks trained in shakha ready for self service any time. Is it a comparison between army & RSS? both know each other."

Mohan Bhagwat ji said to create a new contingent of army procedures followed for recruitment,training which takes time, @RSSorg swyamsevaks trained in shakha ready for self service any time. Is it a comparison between army & RSS? both know each other.  Prof Rakesh Sinha (@RakeshSinha01) February 12, 2018

Condemning the Army remark, Congress President Rahul Gandhi has accused Bhagwat of disrespecting the Indian Army and martyrs through his speech.

"The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army" Rahul tweeted.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation.



It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it.



Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said Bhagwat's comments on the Army are in "poor taste".

On a Facebook post, Vijayan lashed out at Sangh and Bhagwat to say, "RSS chief Mohan Bhagwats comments on Indian Army are in poor taste, against Constitutional propriety; confirms our worst fears about the Sangh that it has no respect for Indias institutions.His statement exposes RSSs hidden agenda to float parallel militias to wreak havoc, crush national unity."

"RSS wants to turn India into Mussolinis Italy and Hitlers Germany. Parallel Army he is talking about is what we have always warned against: Hindu Terror. Running down the army amounts to treason."

"RSS chief must apologise to the people of india for this treacherous remark. PM Shri. Narendra Modi should clarify his Govts position over Bhagwat belittling Indian Army.," the Kerala CM added.New Delhi, Feb 12 (IBNS): Ending his visit to four nations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday returned to India.

He was received at the airport by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

He visited Jordan, Palestine, UAE & Oman.

Modi met several top leaders of the nations during the meeting.

PIB India tweeted: "PM @narendramodi arrives at New Delhi after concluding his 4-day visit to Jordan, Palestine, UAE & Oman."New Delhi/Dhaka, Feb 12 (IBNS): India-Bangladesh bilateral talks, at the level of Commerce Secretary, were held on Feb 7-8 at Dhaka.

The Indian delegation was led by Rita Teaotia, Commerce Secretary and the Bangladesh delegation was headed by Shubhashish Bose, Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of Bangladesh.

The two sides held extensive and productive discussions on a variety of issues concerning bilateral trade and economic relations, including development and up-gradation of infrastructure at border trading points, further expansion of the Border Haats of the two countries, identification and resolution of non-tariff issues affecting bilateral trade, regional connectivity under BBIN MVA and ease of investment.

Both sides agreed to explore the possibilities to further enhance bilateral trade relations and cooperation in fields such as export promotion and capacity building on trade related matters. Commerce secretaries of both sides also discussed the of establishment of an institutional B2B mechanism to provide policy level inputs on trade and investment.

The next bilateral meeting will be held in New Delhi at a mutually convenient date.Patna, Feb 12 (IBNS): Defending RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's Army remark, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said there is no wrong if a social organisation wants to defend the country's borders, media reports said.

Addressing the workers at Zila school in Muzaffarpur, Bihar on Sunday, Bhagwat said: "Sangh will prepare military personnel within three days which the Army would do in 6-7 months. This is our capability. Swayamsewak will be ready to take on the front if the country faces such a situation and Constitution permits to do so."

Bhagwat even added to say that the RSS is like a family organisation where workers are trained like the Army.

When Nitish was asked by media on Monday, he said such services should be welcomed.

"What is wrong in it. As per my information he has talked about readiness of his organisation for the defending country's border. It should be welcomed if any civil organisation does that. I don't think there is any harm in that," the Bihar CM was quoted by News 18.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangha (RSS) on Monday said the former's Army remark has been "misrepresented", media reports said.

The RSS has said Bhagwat's comment was distorted.

RSS ideologue Rakesh Sinha too came out in support of Bhagwat.

He tweeted: "Mohan Bhagwat ji said to create a new contingent of army procedures followed for recruitment,training which takes time, @RSSorg swyamsevaks trained in shakha ready for self service any time. Is it a comparison between army & RSS? both know each other."

Condemning the Army remark, Congress President Rahul Gandhi has accused Bhagwat of disrespecting the Indian Army and martyrs through his speech.

"The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army" Rahul tweeted.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said Bhagwat's comments on the Army are in "poor taste".

On a Facebook post, Vijayan lashed out at Sangh and Bhagwat to say, "RSS chief Mohan Bhagwats comments on Indian Army are in poor taste, against Constitutional propriety; confirms our worst fears about the Sangh that it has no respect for Indias institutions.His statement exposes RSSs hidden agenda to float parallel militias to wreak havoc, crush national unity."

"RSS wants to turn India into Mussolinis Italy and Hitlers Germany. Parallel Army he is talking about is what we have always warned against: Hindu Terror. Running down the army amounts to treason."

"RSS chief must apologise to the people of india for this treacherous remark. PM Shri. Narendra Modi should clarify his Govts position over Bhagwat belittling Indian Army.," the Kerala CM added.New Delhi, Feb 12 (IBNS): In the wake of the recent attacks on an Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday gave out a strong message to Pakistan and said the neighbouring nation will pay for the incident.

"Pakistan will have to pay for this misadventure," she told media.

Five soldiers and a civilian have been killed during 30-hour-long gunbattle which started on Saturday morning after heavily armed terrorists had stormed the Sunjawan army camp in Jammu city .

Defence Spokesman told IBNS in Jammu that four terrorists were also killed who were hold up near the residential quarters inside the camp.

Four dead bodies of terrorists wearing army combat dress and was heavily armed. AK-56 rifles, under barrel grenade launchers, ammunition and grenades were recovered, Defence spokesman said on Sunday.

The operation now mainly focuses on evacuation of people from family quarters, spokesman said.

The five martyred Army personnel include Sub. Madan Lal Choudhary (1st Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, JAK LI), Sub. Mohd Ashraf Mir (1st JAK LI), Hav. Habib-Ullah Qurashi (1st JAK LI), NK Manzoor Ahmed (1st JAK LI) and L/NK Mohd Iqbal (1st JAK LI).

The civilian, who was killed, has been identified as the father of L/NK Mohd Iqbal.Jammu, Feb 12 (IBNS): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday met Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here and briefed her about the security situation in the state.

"Met Defense Minister @nsitharaman ji & briefed her about the security situation in J&K," Mufti tweeted.

She also shared an image where Mufti could be seen discussing issues with Sitharaman.

Reacting to the recent attack in an Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister said 'dialogue' with Pakistan is necessary to end bloodshed.

"Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed. I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesnt matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option," she tweeted.

In the wake of the recent attacks on an Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday gave out a strong message to Pakistan and said the neighbouring nation will pay for the incident.

"Pakistan will have to pay for this misadventure," she told media.

Five soldiers and a civilian have been killed during 30-hour-long gunbattle which started on Saturday morning after heavily armed terrorists had stormed the Sunjawan army camp in Jammu city .

Defence Spokesman told IBNS in Jammu that four terrorists were also killed who were hold up near the residential quarters inside the camp.

Four dead bodies of terrorists wearing army combat dress and was heavily armed. AK-56 rifles, under barrel grenade launchers, ammunition and grenades were recovered, Defence spokesman said on Sunday.

The operation now mainly focuses on evacuation of people from family quarters, spokesman said.

The five martyred Army personnel include Sub. Madan Lal Choudhary (1st Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, JAK LI), Sub. Mohd Ashraf Mir (1st JAK LI), Hav. Habib-Ullah Qurashi (1st JAK LI), NK Manzoor Ahmed (1st JAK LI) and L/NK Mohd Iqbal (1st JAK LI).

The civilian, who was killed, has been identified as the father of L/NK Mohd Iqbal.



Image: Mehbooba Mufti Twitter pageShillong, Feb 12 (IBNS): Just 16 days ahead of the assembly polls in Meghalaya, a live grenade was found from a SUV of a Congress supporter in Shillong on Mon

According to the reports, the Congress supporter named Michael Pakyntein had called up the police and informed about discovery of a live grenade from his SUV bearing registration number of ML-05-S-2927.

Later, a police team and a bomb squad team rushed to the area and safely recovered the grenade and defused it.

East Khasi Hills district Superintendent of Police (City) Spill Thamar said that, the grenade was attached to the spare tyre of the vehicle which parked outside of Pakyntein house.

We have safely recovered the grenade and defused it. An FIR has been filed about this and investigation is going on, the Meghalaya cop said.

Meghalaya is going on to hold the assembly polls on Feb 27 next.

(Reporting by Hemanta Kumar Nath)



Guwahati, Feb 12 (IBNS): To tackle the devastating flood and erosion problem in Assam, the World Bank would draft a five year plan for a holistic approach including measures for constructive use of the excess water generated by the river during monsoon.

A nine member World Bank delegation led by its Country Head Junaid Kamal Ahmed informed this to Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal during a discussion which took place at the Chief Ministers Conference Room at Janata Bhawan in Guwahati on Monday.

Taking part in the discussion, Assam CM Sonowal appraised the delegation about the significant role Brahmaputra played during pre-independence period in the growth of trade & commerce in the region.

Navigation through Brahmaputra with Chittagong port of Bangladesh moulded the economy of the state before Indias independence.. However, due to abrupt closure of trade through Chittagong port after independence severely impacted the economy of the state, Sonowal said.

The Assam CM further said that flood & erosion caused by river Brahmaputra has become a major challenge for the state.

Proper management of the excess water of the river during monsoon and channelizing the same for states growth is the call of the hour, Sonowal stated with a call to the World Bank delegation to extend support and share its expertise with the Assam government for minimizing the havoc wrought by the river.

The World Bank Country Head during the discussion assured the Assam CM that World Bank would employ best technologies to address this alarming issue of the state and also extend full cooperation to the government in its endeavours.

Junaid Kamal Ahmed informed that World Bank would consider replicating the technology of the Netherland based firm which it utilized to control the Huang-He river of China in case of taming the Brahmaputra as well.

The World Bank Country Head also informed that it would draft a five year plan based on latest technologies for a holistic approach to tackle the problem and include initiatives for constructive use of the excess water generated by the river during monsoon apart from mitigating flood & erosion.

Junaid Ahmed also informed that World Bank would also actively consider in improving navigation facility through river Brahmaputra.

Chief Ministers Media Adviser Hrishikesh Goswami, Legal Adviser Santanu Bharali, Chief Secretary VK Pipersenia, Chief Ministers Principal Secretary Sanjay Lohia and a host of other state government officials were also present in the discussion.

(Reporting by Hemanta Kumar Nath)To sweeten air travel during this period, Emirates is giving out heart shaped milk chocolates on all flights from Dubai on the 14th of February. The premium single origin coverture Belgium chocolate will be served alongside the main course for Economy and Business Class customers exclusively for one day only.

Cake and champagne packages are also available in Economy Class for those wanting to celebrate with their loved ones on board. Customers can choose either a vanilla or chocolate cake accompanied by a 200ml bottle of Moet et Chandon Brut NV for USD 43. The packages are available on flights from Dubai and can be pre-ordered via Emirates call centre agents.

In First Class, customers will find their goodie baskets transformed for Valentines Day. In addition to the usual treats of snacks and mints, a duo of heart shaped Belgian chocolates as well white chocolate coated blackcurrant-infused liquorice balls will be added for two days only from 13th February.



Prior to boarding, customers can enjoy Moet & Chandon Rose Imperial from the 13th of February across all seven Emirates lounges at Dubai International Airport. The limited edition champagne will be accompanied by specially created Valentines Day desserts including a berry treat filled with blueberry yoghurt mousse & mixed berry compote; a white chocolate raspberry delight prepared with white chocolate mousse and raspberry jelly; chocolate Valentines truffle prepared with dark chocolate mousse filled with raspberry jelly and an almond caramelised orange cake prepared with orange mousse stuffed with caramelised almond.



The lounges in Dubai International Airport are complimentary for those travelling in Business or First Class as well as Emirates Skywards Silver, Gold and Platinum members. Emirates Skywards Blue members looking to impress their Valentines dates can also pay to access the lounges. Emirates network of lounges worldwide are also serving sweet treats on the 14th of February including heart-shaped Red Velvet cakes and mud cakes.

Customers in need of a last minute Valentines gift are in luck as there is a Duty Free sale on board from the 10th - 18th February offering a 20% discount on all purchases over USD 95. Items on sale include perfumes, jewellery and accessories.



Valentines Day is the latest occasion Emirates is celebrating with a special offering on board and in the lounges. The airline has previously developed seasonal menus for Christmas, Diwali and Oktoberfest among other holidays.New York, Feb 12 (IBNS): At the end of an investigation into inappropriate sexual conduct, New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman has filed a lawsuit against American film producer Harvey Weinstein his younger brother Robert and their firm.

The film producer is facing several allegations of sexual abuse.

As per an official statement issued from the office of New York Attorney General, it read: " The suit, filed today in New York County Supreme Court, includes new and extensive allegations about longtime company CEO Harvey Weinsteins (HW) vicious and exploitative mistreatment of company employees. Todays suit includes numerous employee-victim accounts of sexual harassment, intimidation, and other misconduct."

According to the Attorney Generals lawsuit, despite many complaints to TWCs human resources department and widespread knowledge across the companys leadership of HWs persistent misconduct, TWC executives and the Board repeatedly failed to take meaningful steps to protect company employees or curb HWs misconduct.

As alleged in our complaint, The Weinstein Company repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation, and discrimination, said Attorney General Schneiderman.

Any sale of The Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched. Every New Yorker has a right to a workplace free of sexual harassment, intimidation, and fear," he said.

The lawsuit is the result of an ongoing four month investigation by the Office of the Attorney General.

In a latest revelation, Hollywood actress Uma Thurman had recently broken her silence and said American film producer Harvey Weinstein had attacked her in a hotel room.



In an interview to The New York Times, the actress revealed how two incidents in London took disturbing turn following the release of 1994's Oscar-winning Pulp Fiction.

As per The New York Times report, the first attack, she says, came not long after in Weinsteins suite at the Savoy Hotel in London.

Uma said the producer tried to do all kinds of 'unpleasant things'.

"It was such a bat to the head. He pushed me down. He tried to shove himself on me. He tried to expose himself. He did all kinds of unpleasant things. But he didnt actually put his back into it and force me. Youre like an animal wriggling away, like a lizard. I was doing anything I could to get the train back on the track. My track. Not his track," she told the newspaper.

The actress revealed that after the first incident she had taken a friend with her to confront Weinstein.

However, his assistants pressured her to meet the Hollywood producer alone in his room.

Thurman says, she warned Weinstein, If you do what you did to me to other people you will lose your career, your reputation and your family, I promise you.

The news report said through a spokesperson, Weinstein denied ever threatening her prospects and said that he thought she was a brilliant actress.

The Weinstein row is one of the nastiest incidents to have come out from the multi-billion dollar industry.

A string of Hollywood A-listers, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Agelina Jolie and others have shared their stories of how Weinstein at various junctures in their lifetime had harassed them sexually.

Even though Weinstein had played down all accusations as 'patently false', most industry insider have claimed that his notorious behaviour was an 'open secret'.



Interim City Manager Jason Holley noted that while the jobs from a Steak n Shake might not be high paying, the presence of a refueling station for trucks could mean more sales tax revenues from diesel purchases.

The choice of having a truck refueling station at this location is intended to take advantage of other developments in the area.

South Kelly Road connects with Devlin Road, which is being developed into an alternative route for vehicles  particularly trucks  to avoid the highway.

Plus, Napa Logistics Park and Napa Airport Corporate Center  two large commercial developments featuring warehousing, e-commerce and other businesses  would produce new truck traffic that would pass right by the refueling station on their way to the highway.

Officials expressed other concerns with the project regarding vehicle circulation in and out of the gas stations and restaurant.

As proposed, the site would have only one entry and exit for cars and truck, located just off South Kelly Road.

Holley said the city does not want an access point directly off Highway 29 because it might cause safety issues with vehicles slowly getting off or on the corridor while the rest of the traffic is going 55 mph.Afghanistan, Feb 12 (IBNS) : At least four Taliban insurgents were killed in an explosion triggered by a premature blast in a Vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device.

Local Khaama Press quoted the Ministry of Interior (MoI) as saying on Monday that the explosion took place in western Farah province of Afghanistan.

The statement further added that four Taliban insurgents riding a motor bomb were on their way to reach their target when the explosives went off.

The blast took place on Sunday evening in the vicinity of Dand Jal village in Anar Dara district, according to MoI.

The anti-government armed militant groups including the Taliban insurgents have not commented regarding the report so far.

In the meantime, the ministry of interior says the blast not inflicted casualties to anyone else including the local residents or security personnel.

Farah is among the relatively volatile provinces in West of Afghanistan where the Taliban insurgents are active in some of its remote districts and often carry out insurgency activities.

Roadside bombings, coordinated attacks on security posts and government institutions, car bombings, clashes with the security forces are often reported from the province.Colombo, Feb 12 (IBNS): Winning a stunning victory by grabbing two third of the 340 local government bodies, the party backed by the former President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Monday urged the government to dissolve Parliament immediately and declare a General Election.

The Peoples Front, which is known as the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) has been able to secure 239 councils while Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghes party, the United National Party (UNP) won 41 councils and the United Peoples Freedom Alliance led by President Maithiripala Sirisena got only 11 councils. The Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) won 34 councils in the Northern parts of the country.

Being the most peaceful elections in decades according to the poll monitoring groups, in the local government polls held on Sunday people have voted not only to mend their drainage systems and getting new street lights but to teach the ruling united government, which has shown shaky in their decisions, a lesson.

In a statement, Rajapaksa requested all those contested under his party to celebrate the hard-won victory peacefully and with restraint and in a manner that would not inconvenience the defeated side.

At a press conference held today in Colombo he called on the government to declare a General Election to end the present political instability in the country.

SLPP spokesman and the Chairman Prof. G. L. Peiris told the reporters that Rajapaksas victory was proof that people of Sri Lanka have lost faith in the ruling party.

"This was a referendum on the government. It has no legal or democratic right to remain in power," he said.

Rajapaksa said on his Facebook: The victory is a clear indication that Sri Lankans are fed up of inaction and want to rebuild Sri Lanka,.

Meanwhile, Sirisena, who held an urgently called meeting with his ministers soon after declaring the final vote counting, informed them that he would bring some changes in the government.

I take full responsibility for the SLFPs electoral setback. The people of the country have voted for a change, he had told the ministers adding that he would bring required changes soon.

UNP General Secretary Kabir Hashim said that UNP would analyze the election results and would carry out governments services and duties more diligently and speedily.

He said in a statement that the people had shown the UNP a danger signal and would continue its struggle against corruption.

However, the party informed sources told the India Blooms that majority of young parliamentarians have started an internal campaign to change the leadership of the party with the humiliating loss at the local government polls held yesterday.



(Reporting by Shanika Sriyananda)Ottawa, Feb 12 (IBNS): Canada will launch its new border security app to allow its citizens to cross borders with ease simply by filing personal details, media reports said.

The app which can be downloaded on mobile phones needs filing of personal details for fast moving across borders.

The Known Travelers Digital Identity will require details including university education, bank statements and vaccination records.

The Known Travelers Digital Identity, the programme, is a joint venture by Canada and Netherlands.

The programme is expected to roll out globally by 2020.

The travelers will require to appear for screening, which Border Expert Bill Anderson wants that to be way before the trip date.

The programme will require biometric details too like retina and facial recognition for faster identification.

Head of the Cross-Border Institute at the University of Windsor was quoted by CBC News saying, "The prevailing paradigm in border management is that we need to have risk assessment, and we need to identify those people who are very, very low risk so that you can focus your resources on the ones that you haven't identified as low risk".

The programme will be developed by technology company Accenture.

Accenture has stated the personal details of the users will be kept secured. Data privacy will be maintained, the company said.

In a statement to CBC News, Accenture said: "No personal information is stored on the ledger itself, ensuring that personal information is not consolidated in one system, which would make it a high value target for subversion."

The upcoming project was announced at the World Economic Forum last month. The WEF was held in Davos, Switzerland this year.

Image: Wikimedia commons.As kids, we all dreamed of becoming famous as celebrities, doling out autographs and flashing a toothy smile at the cameras. Little did we know that years later, the magic of social media would actually fulfill several of those dreams.

From Priya Varrier - who is making India skip a collective heartbeat - to the hot chaiwallah from Islamabad, here are seven people who went batshit viral, all thanks to the magic of the internet.

1. Priya Varrier

A 30-second clip from a song from her debut Malayalam film Oru Adaar Love turned Priya Prakash Varrier into an overnight sensation. The girl's undoubtedly gorgeous but her wink is what made many hearts fail, just in time for Valentine's Day! Read more

2. Saima Hussain Mir

While promoting Raees, Shah Rukh Khan posted this picture on his official Facebook page and all hell broke loose. And it was not because of him or his film that his selfie at the Symbiosis Institute of Design went viral. It was because of the girl standing in the first row who soon became the "olive top girl" men couldn't take their eyes off. It was later revealed that her name was Saima Hussain Mir, who was a third-year student at SID from Srinagar.

Shah Rukh Khan/facebook

3. Arshad Khan

People raved about his exceptional looks and gorgeous eyes and aptly titled him the "hot chaiwallah". From being flooded with modelling contracts and questions about movie roles, Arshad Khan became a household name in Pakistan. So much so that the 17-year-old was even invited on a talk show. Read more

4. Nepali Tarkariwali

The netizens virtually began "hitting" on this "Nepali tarkariwali" who went viral after her pictures went viral on social media. According to the Gundruk Post, the unidentified girl was clicked by a Nepali photographer Rupchandra Maharjan. People were quick to share her pictures after they found the girl extremely attractive. Read more

facebook

5. Dr. Mike

This real-life McDreamy is the stuff of wet dreams. How else would you explain the 2.6 million followers the guy has amassed on Instagram since his first pictures went viral?

6. Omar Borkan Al Gala

The man was deemed "too handsome" and was ordered out of Saudi Arabia for his ridiculously good looks that had the power to distract women. Well, it did. Within the first 48 hours of this news making headlines, Omar received more than 800,000 followers on social media.

Omar Borkan Al Gala/facebook

7. Madhura Honey

She was widely referred to as the "photobomb girl" - the girl dressed in red-and-blue who walked with the Indian contingent in the London Olympics opening parade. The entire nation wondered who the woman was. It was later revealed that her name was Madhura Honey, who resided in London at the time. After her photos went viral, she deactivated her Facebook account and led to an inquiry into how she managed to walk with the Indian contingent without any permission.

toi

Also read: 6 People Who Went Viral, All Thanks To Mistaken Identities

There you go. Achieving fame is as easy as selling chai or being a part of a selfie. Time to stop being the Retweeter. Be the Retweeted!2018 is the year that has put women at the forefront of everything, not that we already weren't. it is just that now everyone, including women, are not shying away from the long overdue accolades and it's priceless.

Read more: Meet The 101-Year-Old WWII Veteran Who Has Become World's Oldest Tandem Skydiver

skydiveclub/representational image

Meet Shital Rane-Mahajan, a Pune adventurist who set a new record by becoming the first Indian to skydive sporting a colourful Navwari sari in Thailand on Monday.

Owing to the favourable conditions offered by the weather, Rane was able to jump twice from an aircraft at heights of around 13,000 above the world-famous tourist resort of Pattaya.

zeenews

"I wanted to do something different with International Women's Day coming up next month, so I decided on wearing the Maharashtrian 'Nav-wari sari' for my skydives," Rane-Mahajan told IANS.

If you don't already know, the Navwari sari is longer than the usual sari, making it more difficult to wear, however, Rane did not give it a second thought. She embraced the attire and did what she had to.

zeenews

"First, to drape the Navwari sari properly, plus to wear the parachutes on it, the safety gear and communication equipment, helmet, goggles, shoes, etc, add on to and make it all quite a challenge," Rane-Mahajan explained, as she seemed to stumble in her first landing but escaped unhurt.

"I wanted to prove that Indian women can not only carry the sari graciously in their routine lives but can also use it for a high adventure like skydiving," smiled the 35-year old extreme sportswoman.

Pune adventurist Shital Rane-Mahajan set a new record by becoming the first Indian to skydive from 13000 ft wearing a `Nav-wari Sari (9yards sari normal sari is 6 yards) in Thailand. @vivekagnihotri @ShefVaidya https://t.co/nH7PIlqDqf  Sriram (@srirambjp) February 12, 2018

It's unimaginable the kind of things women are doing to show the world their true spirits. Rane is not just another name, but just another woman who's proved yet again that we can do everything we want to, come what may!One of the bravest fighters of human rights from Pakistan Asma Jahangir, who was also a top Pakistani lawyer, passed away on Feb. 11 after suffering from a cardiac arrest. She was rushed to the hospital where she took her last breath.

Twitter

Throughout her life, she kept fighting for human rights, rooting for democracy as well as women equality. The first ever female president of the Supreme Court Bar Association, she also co-founded women law firm of Pakistan.

Twitter

Not only Pakistan, even India is mourning her death, including Bollywood celebrities. From Shabana Azmi to Javed Akhtar, condolences are pouring out on social media from all the corners.

#1

Asma Jahangir , undoubtedly the bravest and the most resilient fighter for human rights who had the courage to face the wrath of the dictators and the fury of the fundamentalist Mulla has passed away . It is the loss of the whole Sub continent .  Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) February 11, 2018

#2

Just heard the devastating news that #Asma Jehangir passed away.She was a friend for whos values integrity and courage I have the deepest respect. Pakistan has lost its most fearless crusader and the human rights movement its tallest leader. Our deepest condolences to the family  Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) February 11, 2018

#3

Deeply shocked & saddened to hear of #AsmaJahangir. She was a true defender of #HumanRights #Democracy & fought till her last breath against authoritarian power, orthodoxy & discriminatn. She was & will remain an inspiration A huge loss. Condolences to all whose lives she touched pic.twitter.com/FtR6HnFbIf  Nandita Das (@nanditadas) February 11, 2018

#4

An extraordinary woman who fought for ordinary people. Asmaji had the audacity and the courage to fight for a fairer world. Thank you for touching our lives.  pic.twitter.com/wML94XmtcI  Mahesh Bhatt (@MaheshNBhatt) February 11, 2018

#5

Sad sad day for Pakistan.. we say goodbye to a great great artist and a fearless activist. They shall live on through their work, always. #QaziWajid #AsmaJahangir pic.twitter.com/RLWZzR7aK2  Mahira Khan (@TheMahiraKhan) February 11, 2018

#6

Shocking to hear about the passing of this brave woman. Her honesty and sincerity to her cause remains an inspiration for our generation. Was always so full of life. We will miss you maam. @Asma_Jahangir pic.twitter.com/gGqEJuAexv  Ali Zafar (@AliZafarsays) February 11, 2018Sexual harassment cases against co-workers has suddenly become the talk of the town. It all started when when Harvey Weinstein was accused by a string of Hollywood actresses of sexual abuse and misconduct.

Twitter

While everyone thought it was happening in the West, many cases of casting couch and incidents of harassment were unveiled in India as well. Plenty of women took to Twitter and participated in the #MeToo campaign, accepting that they have been subjected to sexual tension against their will at some point or the other.

Twitter/Amala Paul

Now, a South Indian actress Amala Paul has come out and spoken about one such incident. 10 days ago, Amala spoke about it to Indian Express. She said:

When I had gone to do dance rehearsal, a man spoke to me unpleasantly, like he was conducting a trade. I was very shocked. I was very humiliated. Thats why I immediately came to complain to the police station. Im going to Malaysia for an event. I went to dance practice for that event. While I was practising, he came inside. He spoke as though he was part of the event. He spoke to me like he was someone known at the event. He spoke to me personally when I was alone inside. Thats why I have complained. He has spoken like he was conducting a sexual trade, for a favour.

Filmibeat

Soon, people from the industry and her fans extended their support to the VIP 2 actress.

Hats off to ya guts @Amala_ams for yr boldness in the recent incident. Salute u.needs a lot of determination and guts to move a case on sexual harassment.sincere thanks to the police dept for the swift action https://t.co/a2BSY3AGsx filed.hope these culprits learn a lesson.  Vishal (@VishalKOfficial) February 2, 2018

With you @Amala_ams ! Many hooligans take #women for granted because they think women can't fight back. It is time to say NO to any kind of harassment and never hesitate to publicly shame them or fight against them.  Kiran Maverick (@KiranMaverick) February 11, 2018

Hats off for your guts. There are many people and fans to support you. Take care.  Varmaloksatta (@Varmaloksatta1) February 12, 2018

And then she tweeted an emotional post.

Thank you Vishal for standing by me and assuring me that I must not let it go, and I didnt, now I believe its every womans duty, to not let it go and stand for themselves. He was ready to trade me off like a meatloaf, his guts make me sick, his existence makes me sick #MeToo https://t.co/SEPrE4bxPr  Amala Paul  (@Amala_ams) February 10, 2018

More power to you, Amala. We definitely need more celebs like you.Kamal Haasan is one of the very few stars who doesnt care about maintaining an image. His sharp words might offend people, but he doesnt stop himself from expressing his opinions. No matter whether he receives flak or gets trolled, the veteran star never minces words.

Twitter

Kamal Haasan, who recently bared his political ambitions and faced a lot of criticism, delivered a keynote address on India in Transition - Opportunities and Challenges at the Harvard University recently. This was the second time that he was a part of the student-run conference at the prestigious university attended by businessmen and entrepreneurs as well.

Here are some of the quotes from his speech at the Harvard.

1. On what is ruining Tamil Nadu politics

As I stand on this podium, I can boldly say I dare to have a vision. The new brave is being bold with a purpose. My true purpose today is to challenge the status-quo and mediocrity in the polity that is plaguing our state of Tamil Nadu. I have often said that when avaricious businessmen and politicians set mediocrity as the standard, then rubbish becomes acceptable, ordinary becomes extraordinary, and extraordinary becomes genius. Genius itself, if it exists at all, is relegated to a state that needs psychiatric monitoring. Fortunately, my vision in these clients is just extraordinary. Extraordinary only when compared to the policy paralysis and the lack of imagination that exists in Tamil Nadu today.

2. On his plans for Tamil Nadu

On February 21, 2018, as I embark on my political journey, I am announcing a plan to adopt one village in every district of Tamil Nadu with the vision and aspiration for them to be 'the best villages ever in India and later why not in the world

The government has not been able to give citizens enough to eat and they want to tell us what to eat and what not to eat.

3. On Beef ban controversy

The government has not been able to give citizens enough to eat and they want to tell us what to eat and what not to eat.

4. On Love Jihad

I think that a new revolution is on its way. I do not know about jihad, but love would triumph over hate.

5. On alliance with Rajinikanth

I hope his hue is not saffron. When it comes to religion, we are poles apart. If the hue that he's going to acquire is going to be saffron, then I can't see a clear understanding. Unless some other explanation he gives that convinces my rational mind.

6. On his political ambitions

The hue of my politics is black. I want to bring all colours together.

7. On Indian villages

If the villages perish, India would perish too. An old nation in the world will get lost.

8. On corruption

When voters take money to cast their votes the give the netas the right to make money after he gets elected.

9. On what is wrong with the government

I'm fed up of complaining about governmental inaction. Demanding good governance is my right.

10. His appeal to the audience

I have the humility to learn and keep learning. Part now with me on this epic journey of reimagining and rebuilding Tamil Nadu. And hopefully, one day our country for a better tomorrow. Please visit www.maiam.com to volunteer. Naalai Namathe (Tomorrow is ours). Goodbye.

Image courtesy: BCCLAfter the cowardly attack on sleeping family members of the Indian Army in Sunjuwan, Pakistan is scared of the revenge that will likely follow.

Safe haven for world's terrorists, Pakistan has warned India against cross-border strikes.

Saturday's attack on the Sunjuwan camp in Jammu was the worst in months, with five soldiers and the father of one of the soldiers killed and women and children among the ten wounded.

India said the heavily armed attackers were members of the JeM, drawing criticism from Pakistan about rushing to judgment without a full inquiry.

PTI

"It is a well established pattern that Indian officials begin making irresponsible statements and levelling unfounded allegations, even before any proper investigation in any incident has been initiated," Pakistan's foreign ministry said in a statement.

India, it said, was making these allegations to divert attention from its brutality in trying to control the armed revolt in Kashmir, and warned against any retaliatory measures across the Line of Control (LoC).

"We hope that the international community would urge India to stop the untold atrocities and gross violations of human rights in Kashmir (and) refrain from any misadventure across the Line of Control..." it said.

PTI

India has long accused Pakistan of training and arming terrorists and helping them infiltrate across the heavily militarised LoC into Jammu and Kashmir.

The head of the Jammu & Kashmir state police, SP Vaid, told reporters over the weekend that they had communication intercepts pointing to the JeM, which has emerged as a top group fighting hundreds of thousands of Indian forces in Kashmir.

The Army said the attackers wore fatigues and had assault rifles, a UBGL and grenades.

PTI

In 2016, India carried out surgical strikes after 18 soldiers were killed in an attack on the Uri base in Kashmir.

Pakistan denies giving material aid to the fighters in Kashmir and says it only provides diplomatic and moral support to the Kashmiri people in 'their struggle for self-determination'.

On Monday, Indian soldiers foiled an attack on CRPF camp in Srinagar. An encounter is currently ongoing between the terrorists and the security forces, and one CRPF jawan has been martyred.One of Californias most complex and unusual financial/political/legal conflicts was settled last week, but the deal left a couple of mysteries.The two Southern California utilities that own the now-shuttered San Onofre nuclear power plant agreed to modify a 2014 Public Utilities Commission (PUC) decree that had saddled their customers with two-thirds of $4.7 billion in decommissioning costs.

Instead, the costs will be split about 50-50, saving the ratepayers $775 million under a negotiated agreement.

Its a win for consumer groups and Michael Aguirre, the former San Diego city attorney whose law firm has been fighting the initial PUC decree for nearly four years and will receive $5.4 million for its efforts.

The PUCs 2014 decision ratified a deal struck by its then-president, Michael Peevey and a Southern California Edison executive in a private 2013 meeting in a Warsaw, Poland, hotel room.

Edison is the majority owner of San Onofre, with San Diego Gas and Electric the minority owner, and Peevey is the former president of Edison. As part of the deal, Edison donated $25 million to a Peevey-sponsored UCLA climate-change research project.

After the meeting was disclosed, Aguirre filed a series of actions, including a federal lawsuit, challenging the secret agreement. He also demanded emails he alleged could show that Gov. Jerry Brown was a party to the deal.

Browns office has denied any role and the existence of any San Onofre-related emails, and the PUC has steadfastly rejected Aguirres demands. A Superior Court judge sided with Aguirre, saying, Withholding records of allegedly ex parte secret deals resulting in a shifting of utility losses to ratepayers cannot possibly be a regulatory function of the PUC. But the PUC prevailed on appeal.

Meanwhile, the state Department of Justice (DOJ) opened a criminal investigation. There is probable cause to believe that Michael Peevey  used his position to influence SCEs commitment of millions of dollars to UCLA to fund a research program, a DOJ agent said in an affidavit for a search warrant.

Eventually, Peevey was forced to step down from the PUC, saying, Twelve years is enough.

The commission adopted a somewhat baffling attitude toward the scandal. It fined Edison $16.74 million for engaging in ex parte, or unofficial, negotiations, but in trying to quash Department of Justice search warrants, it defended such private dealings as a normal aspect of rate setting.

Moreover, until the revised deal, the PUC had refused to modify the original decree that let the utilities and their stockholders mostly off the hook.

The San Onofre scandal and other cases, such as private communications with Pacific Gas and Electric over a disastrous gas-pipeline explosion, indicate that the PUC has been too cozy with the utilities it is supposed to regulate in the public interest.

In response, Peeveys successor, Michael Picker, has promised more transparency and accountability, and the Legislature has enacted some reforms.

With the new San Onofre settlement, the criminal investigation and the effort to open emails involving Brown  if they exist  could just fade away. The episode has been embarrassing to everyone involved except Aguirre, so theres probably little appetite for continuing to air dirty linen.

However, the still-pending aspects of the San Onofre case should not be allowed to wither. The Department of Justice should tell us, one way or the other, whether it considers the Warsaw meeting a criminal act. And we should be told whether Brown, as Aguirre alleged for years, played a role in what happened.

Sunshine, after all, is the best antidote for official malfeasance.

CALmatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how Californias state Capitol works and why it matters. For more stories by Dan Walters, go to calmatters.org/commentary.A pregnant woman, who was injured during the suicide attack on the Sunjuwan military camp in Jammu, delivered a baby girl at the Satwari military hospital on Sunday.

AFP

Rifleman Nazir Ahmad's 35-week-old pregnant wife, along with 11 others, was shot in the lower back when Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists attacked civilians at the family quarters of the Army camp in Sunjuwan on national highway 1A, connecting Jammu to Srinagar, early on Saturday morning. She was rushed to the military hospital in an Army chopper, where a caesarean section was performed on her on Sunday.

PTI/Representational Image

"Army doctors worked all night to save the life of the severely injured pregnant woman with gunshot wounds and helped her deliver a baby girl, following a caesarean section operation," Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand told agencies. "The woman delivered a baby girl weighing 2.5kg. The condition of both the mother and the baby are stable," he added.

Amidst the tragedy reports of some good news - an injured wife of one of the soldiers delivered a baby at the Military Hospital in Jammu   Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) 11 February 2018

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah termed it a "good news". "Amidst the tragedy reports of some good news  an injured wife of one of the soldiers delivered a baby at the Military Hospital in Jammu," he tweeted.A day after the pre-dawn strike by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists at the camp of the 36 Brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry at the Sunjuwan town of Jammu, the death toll reached nine on Sunday with the recovery of the bodies of three Army personnel, one civilian and a terrorist.

As the gun-battle entered the second day on Sunday, one terrorist was eliminated, while three jawans  Havildar Habibullah Qureshi, Naik Manzoor Ahmad and Lance Naik Mohd Iqbal  and a civilian, identified as the father of Lance Naik Iqbal, were killed on Sunday, an Army spokesman said.

AFP

"During the operation, the Army killed four terrorists, donning Army combat dress and carrying AK-56 assault rifles, a large quantity of ammunition and hand grenades. The terrorists were holed up inside the family quarters in the camp," defence spokesman Lt Col Devendra Anand said.

On Saturday, two Army personnel  JCO Madan Lal Chaudhary and Subadar Mohammad Ashraf Mir  and two JeM terrorists were killed and nine others, including a pregnant woman, were injured.

AFP

Special commandos were rushed in from Udhampur to Jammu for the final assault, while choppers and drones monitored the situation at the encounter site, the spokesperson said. Although the firing was stopped around 2am on Sunday, the operation to flush out the holed-up terrorists from the camp began later in the day. The holed-up terrorists, according to Army sources, were bundled in a residential building, which caught fire during the gun battle.

"A search of the belongings of terrorists suggested that they belonged to JeM. Operations carried out with caution to safeguard unarmed soldiers, women and children in the family quarters in the camp. Most of the over 150 houses in the camp were cleared and occupants moved to safety," the spokesperson added.

AFP

Just after Army Chief General Bipin Rawat arrived in Jammu on Sunday to take stock of the situation, a four-member National Investigation Agency team reached here to examine materials  weapons, combat dress and JeM flags  recovered from the slain terrorists.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor NN Vohra and Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti expressed serious concerns over the fidayeen attack. The governor spoke to Lt General Devraj Anbu, Northern Army Commander, and conveyed grief over the death of army personnel.

AFP

Condemning the act, the CM described the attack as an "effort by elements inimical to peace to break the developmental pace in the state". She appealed to people to defeat the "nefarious designs" of the perpetrators.

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and his son and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also condemned the "dastardly attack" and expressed solidarity with the families of those who died in the line of duty.Hate crimes in USA are prevalent and on it's peak. An Indian-American was killed and another critically injured when a man opened fire in two convenience stores in the US state of Georgia.

Parmjit Singh, a 44-year-old father of two high school students, was shot multiple times on Tuesday evening at the Hi Tech Quick Stop on Burnett Ferry Road, sheriff's officers said. The Floyd County coroner pronounced him dead on the scene.

representational image / reuters

Just 10 minutes after shooting Singh, the gunman entered another convenience store, Elm Street Food and Beverage, and stole money before shooting 30-year-old clerk Parthey Patel, sheriffs officers said. Patel was in critical condition.

The suspect, Lamar Rashad Nicholson, 28, was arrested on multiple charges, including murder, aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm while committing a crime and use of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is being held without bond in the Floyd County jail.

Major Jeff Jones with the Floyd County police said officers did recover security video from the initial location and it shows the suspect walked into the store and immediately fired three shots at the Singh who was standing behind the counter, a local newspaper said.

A second employee, a female, was standing off to the side and was not injured, the newspaper reported. Jones said there was no attempt to rob the store, that Nicholson simply walked in and opened fire. Singh's brother, who owns several local businesses, told Rome News Tribune that his older brother came to the area about eight years ago. Police is investigating the motive behind the crime.

Nicholson is no stranger to law enforcement. He was arrested on January 9 after he violently snatched a 3-year-old girl by the arm and cursed in front of her and another child, authorities said.Air traffic controllers handling the Vistara and Air India flights that came dangerously close in Mumbai airspace last Wednesday (Febraury 7) have been suspended. Investigators are probing if in those tense seconds  when the two planes with 261 passengers on them  had to be pulled apart, there was some confusion in the controller's coordination with the two cockpits which were both manned by women at that time.

AFP

AI's Airbus A-319 was enroute from Mumbai to Bhopal as AI 631 and Vistara's A-320 Neo was flying from Delhi to Pune as UK 997. "The planes were barely seconds away from each other. Vistara was descending from its assigned level of 29,000 feet to 27,100 feet where an AI flight was coming in the opposite direction. There may have been confusion between the ATC and Vistara cockpit  which at that time had a woman co-pilot at the controls and the captain had taken a toilet break. The AI flight had a woman commander, Captain Anupama Kohli. Maybe there was a mix-up in communication in those tense seconds like what altitude instruction is being given to which lady. This has to be seen," said sources.

Amid this confusion, AI's Captain Anupama Kohli  a senior commander of A-320 family with experience of over 20 years  saved the day. "She saw the Vistara aircraft approaching in her direction and could hear the ATC asking UK 997 'why are you on this level?' The Vistara lady pilot told ATC that 'no, you told me to come to this level'.

She was monitoring this. Then she saw the Vistara plane closing in from her left side right towards her. The red sign went up in her cockpit and she got to know the Vistara plane was crossing her level 'now'. Instantly, a resolution advisory (RA) came  'climb, climb, climb." Then as per RA, Captain Kohli immediately climbed and turned right to steer clear of the Vistara plane," said sources.

AFP

The Vistara plane at that time was being flown by the lady co-pilot. The male commander had taken a toilet break and as per rules, an Airhostess was in the cockpit as two crew members have to be always present in a cockpit. Luckily AI went up and Vistara came down, to be 600 feet away from each other and then flew away safely "clear of conflict".

AI has applauded the presence of mind shown by Captain Anupama Kohli. Vistara did not comment on the issue as the matter is being investigated, while maintaining its crew operated exactly as per rules without any violation. Airline sources say its crew was asked to be at 27,000 feet and that is why they were there.Mumbai may have a new way of dealing with rising air pollution and degrading air quality. Not many switch their engines off while standing on the traffic signal before it goes green. To curb such waste of fuel and emission of harmful gases, a new traffic system has been developed to address this problem.

In order to address this peculiar problem, 19-year-old Shivani Khot and her younger sister Esha (14) have come up with a unique solution - adding a new "blue" signal along with the red, yellow and green ones that people are familiar with.

Representational image

As per their novel initiative, all the engines have to be compulsorily switched off at the blue signal. The blue light will turn on five seconds after a signal goes red and turn off to red five seconds before the green signal, allowing for time to switch on the ignitions.

"There is a huge loss of fuel and air pollution as the engines continue to be on at signals. We think we can change things by having the new signal," Shivani Khot, a student of psychology at the SK Somaiya College in Mumbai, told PTI.

Citing findings of studies done by the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), she said only 20 per cent of motorists switch off the ignitions while waiting at signals.

She said by switching off vehicle engines, fuel worth Rs. 70 crore can be saved annually at eight busy intersections in the national capital region alone.

Representational image

At these eight junctions, around 28,750 tonnes of carbon is emitted, which can be considerably reduced, only if the engines are switched off, she said citing the CRRI data.

The college student said despite some signals having a digital counter, which shows the time before the signal goes green, there has been no change in the people's attitude.

She said a placard campaign asking motorists to shut engines took the number of those switching off ignition up to 64 per cent, from where it declined week after week.Last month an attack on Indian Army convoy in Kashmir's Shopian led to the firing on a 250 strong mob. Consequently an FIR was filed against Major Aditya Kumar. The Army on it's part said that soldiers fired at the mob as a last resort that had isolated a part of the convoy and tried to set vehicles on fire. Now in a new development, the Supreme Court has come out and supported the officer in question.

The Supreme Court on Monday put a stay on the FIR registered against Army Major Aditya Kumar and also directed that no coercive action be taken against him in connection with the incident in which three civilians were killed and nine others were injured.

The Supreme Court order came on a plea by Major Aditya's father, Lt Col Karamveer Singh, seeking to quash the FIR lodged by the Jammu and Kashmir Police against his son and other Army personnel over the firing incident in Shopian.

PTI

The order was passed by a bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra. While staying the FIR, the Supreme Court also issued notices to the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government, seeking reply within two weeks.

ALSO READ: Death Toll Rises To 9 As Terrorists Open Fire At Military Station In Jammu's Sunjwan Town

Major Kumar and other soldiers of 10 Garhwal Rifles have been accused of opening fire and fatally injuring three civilians when a stone-pelting mob attacked an Army convoy near Ganowpora village in Shopian district on January 27.

The case was registered under Sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Ranbir Penal Code.

PTI/Representational Image

The Mehbooba Mufti-led state government has ordered a magisterial probe into the incident and sought a report within 20 days.

ALSO READ: Amid Sunjuwan Camp Attack, Armymans Injured Wife Gives Birth To Baby Girl

'FIR would hurt the morale of Army personnel'

The FIR would hurt the morale of Army personnel in discharging the duty, Lt Col Karamveer Singh had said in his plea filed through advocate Aishwarya Bhati.

AP

"The manner in which the lodging of the FIR has been portrayed and projected by the political leadership and administrative higher-ups of the state reflects the extremely hostile atmosphere that the security forces face in the state.

"In these circumstances, the petitioner is left with no other viable option but to approach this Court under Article 32 of the Constitution of India for protection of valuable Fundamental Rights of his son and himself, enshrined under Article 14 and 21 of the Constitution of India," the plea said.A girl student and her male friend sitting outside Manesar's Government Polytechnic College were assaulted after they objected getting filmed by unknown people.

According to the police, five youths came near the girl and her friend on Saturday afternoon and suddenly, one of them started filming the two friends with his mobile phone. When they objected to his act, all the five started hurling abuses at them and then then beat them up.

Representational Image

Based on a complaint filed by the victims, the police have booked the men under sections 354 A (sexual harassment), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 34 (common intent) of IPC at Manesar police station. Three of the men were arrested on Sunday while the police are searching for other two absconding people.Two Army officers were killed in a terrorist attack on the Sunjuwan Army camp in Jammu in the early hours of Saturday.

Junior Commissioned Officers (JCO) M Ashraf Mir and Madan Lal lost their lives in the attack launched by a group of four-five heavily-armed Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists. Another officer and a civilian are injured and have been moved to the military hospital.

AP

The terrorists breached the rear side of the camp of the 36 Army Brigade, barged into the JCO family quarters in the garrison and opened fire.

"Around 4.55am, suspicious movement was noticed by the santri. The santri bunker was fired upon and they retaliated. The number of terrorists isn't known, they've been cornered in one of the family quarters. The operation is on," Jammu IGP SD Singh Jamwal said.

AP

It is believed that the terrorists have been isolated in one of the buildings.

"Room-to-room intervention is now going on to pin down the terrorists inside the Junior Commissioned Officers' building that they managed to enter," sources in the army told IANS.

The area was cordoned off after the arrival of the Army's special forces and the Special Operations Group.

Even though there have been no confirmation, initial reports suggest that Pakistan based Jaish-e-Muhammad was behind the attack.

AP

Following the attack, a high alert was sounded in Jammu and security was beefed up in and around the city.

Intelligence inputs had earlier warned of an attack on the army or security establishment by JeM in view of the death anniversary of Afzal Guru who was hanged on February 9, 2013, reported PTI.

The camp, which is spread over many acres of land, is located adjacent to several shopping arcades and motor showrooms, and private schools on the by-pass in the heart of Jammu city.The Pakistan People's Party (PPP) have nominated a Hindu woman from Thar in Sindh province to contest for a general Senate seat, a media report said. In case if Krishna Kumari will win, she can be the first Hindu Senator in the Muslim-majority Pakistan.

Kumari is a Kolhi woman from the family of freedom fighter Rooplo Kolhi, who had waged a war against the British colonialist forces when they had attacked Sindh in 1857.

FB

She had joined the PPP as a social activist along with her brother, who was later elected as Chairman of Union Council Berano, Samaa news channel reported. Kumari said she had made all the necessary documentation to file her nomination papers. Born to a poor peasant Jugno Kolhi in 1979, Kumari and her family members spent nearly three years in a private jail owned by a landlord.

Kumari was married to Lalchand at the age of 16, when she was studying in 9th grade. However, she pursued her studies and in 2013 she did masters in sociology from the Sindh University, the channel said.

She also actively participated and worked for the rights of downtrodden people of marginalised communities living in Thar and other areas. The PPP has provided several women leaders to Pakistan including Benazir Bhutto, the first woman prime minister; Hina Rabbani Khar, the first woman foreign minister and Fehmida Mirza, the first woman speaker of the National Assembly.The attack on the army camp in Jammu's Sunjuwan town has left us shocked. The coward Jaish e Mohammad terrorists attacked the families of the jawans when they were asleep. India has lost five soldiers in the attack.

On February 5, an Army Captain and three jawans were killed in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Bhimber Gali sector of Rajouri district. The country was yet to recover from the loss when the Jaish e Mohammad terrorists attacked the army camp.

AFP

In last one and a half years, the terrorists have specifically targeted the establishment of the security forces. We all remember the cowardly attack in Uri sector in 2016 in which 18 of our jawans had martyred and how India had reacted after that in form of surgical strikes.

Here are the recent terrorist attacks on the establishment and camps of the army and other security forces:

1. Sunjuwan Army Camp Attack:

On February 10th, three armed terrorists attacked the Sunjuvan army camp near Jammu and launched massive offensive inside the camp. The army too retaliated and killed all three terrorists, but by that, enough damage had been done. India lost five of its soldiers where one civilian whos the father of one of the soldiers lost his life.

2. Kakapora, Pulwama

On February 5, an army camp was attacked by terrorist inn Pulwamas Kakapora. The terrorists lobbed grenades towards the forces after entering the camp. However, no casualties were reported.

3. CRPF camp attacked, 6 soldiers killed

On December 31, the New Year's Eve, two terrorists of JEM entered CRPF camp in pre-dawn hours in Letpora in Pampore in Pulwama district. The sudden assault caught the CRPF off guard and seven CRPF soldiers got injured even before the gun battle started. Five soldiers died on the spot whereas another soldier died in hospital next day. Two terrorists, however, were killed.

4. JEM terrorists attacked BSF camp

In yet another predawn attack on October 3 last year. The attack took place around 4 am when three terrorists entered the camp and unleashed fire in a BSF camp near the high-security Srinagar International Airport in Srinagar District.

AP

An ASI of BSF was killed and three other SFs personnel were injured. Three militants were also killed in the exchange of fire with SFs.

5. Terrorist attack Police Lines, 8 security personnel killed

AP

On August 26, terrorists attacked District Police Lines in Pulwama district in which eight security personnel that also involved four CRPF jawans were martyred in the attack. The attack was again predawn and three terrorists were also killed.

6. Four terrorists killed

PTI

On June 5, four militants were killed in retaliatory fire by security forces as they attempted to attack a CRPF camp at Sumbal in Bandipora District early morning. According to reports, the heavily armed militants tried to enter the camp of 45 Battalion CRPF at Sumbal in Bandipora at around 3.45am by opening fire at the sentry post. The gun battle between the SFs and militants went on till 6.15 am.

7. Three soldiers martyred

On April 27 last year, two terrorists attacked the garrison of the army in Kupwara's Panzgam area and the sudden attack took security men by surprise. In the gun battle, the two attackers were killed, but army too lost 3 troopers.

AP

All these attacks have taken place early in the morning taking the security personnel guarding the camp by surprise. Sunjuwan will not be the last attack unless army gears up and find any quick solution to these sudden attacks.I spent lots of time as a cadet preparing for, marching in and complaining about parades. Soldiers will march if commanded; troops will drive military vehicles overnight if told, and even transport tanks hundreds of miles so they can tear up Pennsylvania Avenue when requested. They will do so at the expense of training, fighting or spending time with their families and will do so in a smart fashion.

However, if given a choice between spending countless hours practicing for a parade, getting their equipment ready and uniforms prepared so they can demonstrate their fealty to the president or simply sending the commander in chief a Valentine's card expressing their devotion, I am guessing they would go the Hallmark route.

The military is legally and morally bound to disobey illegal and immoral orders. Otherwise they are duty bound to follow the orders of the commander in chief, no matter how stupid.

And that's how it should be. Congress, however, is not bound by the same constraints.

There should be a bipartisan movement to stop the president from using the military for an expensive and painful presidential self-esteem exercise. If Congress won't stop this folly, I have another suggestion.

Senior officers should request parade volunteers from the ranks and then invite the president to lead the march down Pennsylvania Avenue himself. As in the past, his bone spurs might prompt him to defer the invitation when the marching is being done on his own time, on his own two feet.

Thomas Umberg is a former California assemblyman and retired Army colonel who served in Afghanistan. He wrote this for the Sacramento Bee.The Sunjwan attack has left us in shock and it has cost India quite a lot as we have lost our five jawans. But the cowardly attack scripted a couple of stories of bravery from the side of Indian army and one such is of Subedar Madam Lal Chaudhary who took on the terrorists barehanded and saved his family from damage.

Though he sacrificed his life on the line of his duty to the nation as well as to the family.

PTI

He faced a group of heavily armed desperate terrorists with bare hands, took scores of bullets on his chest and arms, yet ensured that the assailants could not inflict much harm on his family. Subedar Madal Lal Choudhary, 50, eventually fell to the AK 47 bullets fired by the terrorists, who attacked his quarter at Sunjwan Army station in Jammu, but still foiled their plan to cause maximum damage. A pall of gloom descended on this non-descript hamlet after the news of Madan Lal Choudharys death reached here. Yet, the people of the border belt of Hiranagar in Kathua district are proud of the brave son of soil who took on armed intruders with bare hands and saved his family and kin. Madan Lal Choudharys family had come to his quarter in the Military Station, Sunjwan, as they need to shop for the wedding of a relative.

He mustered a lot of courage and saved the life of other family members very tactically by not allowing the terrorists to enter his quarter, his brother Surinder Choudhary said. Surinder Choudhary said his his brother managed to facilitate the exit of family members from the back as he blocked the entry of terrorists. However, Madan Lal Choudharys 20-year-old daughter Neha received a bullet injury in the leg while his sister-in-law Paramjeet also received minor injuries. But all of them managed to survive. I am proud of my younger brother who braved bullets, fought heavily armed militants with bare hands to save family members and kin. Had he failed to save them, the entire family would have been wiped out. He foiled the militants plan to cause maximum causalities, Surinder Choudhary said.

Jammu: Wreath laying ceremony of Subedar Madal Lal Choudhary who lost his life in #SunjwanArmyCamp terrorist attack pic.twitter.com/PFy3R9GLlV  ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018

Madan Lal Choudhary, who rose to the post of a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO)  a Subedar  belonged to a family of defence force personnel. His elder brother Shamsher Singh is an ex-serviceman, his son Ankush a Captain in the Indian Army, and his nephew Sandeep is in the Indian Air Force. He is survived by father Inder Chand and mother Banti Devi besides three brothers. The elderly parents father and mother were unaware about their loss till last evening even as the people and relatives thronged their residence. It was only when Madan Lal Choudharys wife Karamjeet and his elder brother Shamsher reached home, that they were told the news of his death. People of the village, who witnessed the terror of partition in 1947 and are refugees from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), were proud of Madan Lal Choudharys sacrifice. We are proud of him.The madness around cryptocurrency mining and earning a quick buck has reached a whole new level of crazy, where tech-savvy hackers are infecting websites for their dirty schemes.

Around 4,275 websites were secretly carrying a cryptocurrency malware belonging to Bitcoin's rival. What added insult to injury was the fact that most of these infected websites belonged to the US and UK government. Oops.

Trend Micro

All these websites -- which get over millions of visitors every day -- were hacked to secretly force visitors' computers to run a cryptocurrency mining software for Monero -- a rival cryptocurrency to Bitcoin.

Whenever an unsuspecting user visited any one of the infected US & UK govt websites, a malicious code would start running in the background -- without the user's knowledge, stealing their PC's processing power. The malicious code belonged to a piece of software known as "Coinhive", which literally advertises itself as "A Crypto Miner for your Website", according to security researchers.

ALSO READ: This Insane Bitcoin Mining Rig Is Made Up Of 40 Old Samsung Galaxy S5 Smartphones!

How did this happen?

A snapshot of affected websites

The massive website infection was discovered by researcher Scott Helme, when his friend sent him a weird antivirus warning as soon as he visited a UK government website. Several infected websites later started reporting vulnerabilities or were inaccessible for some time.

Helme quickly found the root of the cryptocurrency malware hack linked to a website plug-in called Browsealoud, which is used to help the blind and partially sighted people access the web more freely.

According to a BBC report, Texthelp -- the company which makes the Browsealoud plug-in -- also confirmed it was affected for hours by malicious code triggered to secretly generate cryptocurrency by taking over PC's resources, as soon as it connected to an infected website.

Ummm, so yeah, this is *bad*. I just had @phat_hobbit point out that @ICOnews has a cryptominer installed on their site...  pic.twitter.com/xQhspR7A2f  Scott Helme (@Scott_Helme) February 11, 2018

The vulnerability was found on a bunch of high-profile govt websites, including the UK's Information Commissioner's Office and the US' official Courts system. The Queensland govt's website in Australia and other obscure websites were also part of the cryptocurrency mining malware ring.

Efforts are currently underway to quarantine and eliminate the malicious code infecting all these websites. Some of the US and UK govt websites have already been fixed, but we still don't know if the entire malware system still continues to affect other websites and unsuspecting users.

ALSO READ: Bitcoin Miners Are Using More Electricity Than Ireland & Other 159 Countries. No Kidding.Over this weekend, actress Priya Prakash Varrier became an Indian sensation for her role in the Malayalam film Oru Adaar Love. Not as a powerful actor in the lead role, not as a singing sensation belting out a heartwarming melody, and certainly not as the titillating performer of an item number. No, she just captured pretty much the entire country with a smile and a wink.

Overnight, Varrier has become an Internet sensation, with the 30-second clip garnering her thousands of new followers across Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Shes become a meme too, and sometimes a pretty hilarious one at that.

Weve gotta find her!

Over just a couple of days, Varriers popularity has skyrocketed. The original music video that featured her was first posted on Friday, February 9, but it wasnt until early yesterday morning that people began searching for her by name online. When they did, the hunt only stopped for a few hours as India slept, as you can tell by the dip in the interest curve there.

But its technically not just people in our country searching for the new Indian girl next door. It seems a lot of our countrymen settled in places like Oman and Saudi Arabia were also curious about the newcomer, as were other Indians in the US, Australia, and Europe. Even Pakistan was interested too it seems, though searches there seemed largely misspelled as warrier.

In India, we were focused on the movie shes starring in, and finding her Instagram account. Pakistan, and Oman (for the most part) on the other hand also wanted to know how old the breathtaking brunette is. Were... going to reserve commenting on that.

Stealing her thunder

As it turns out, people dont want you hogging all the attention when you get famous. Try an experiment, just search for Priya Varriers name on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Id be willing to bet my monthly salary youll have at least 20 hits to choose from, each.

Especially on platforms like Instagram, where followers are highly valued, a lot of people have been creating fake profiles for the actress over the weekend to capitalise on her newfound popularity. Heck, there are the obvious ones with a stolen photo or two, all claiming to be the authentic thing. But at least one has gone the distance, posting over 57 photos copied from Varriers actual profile. The only way to really tell the difference is seeing all the posts dated between the past three days. As for Facebook, it took so long I got tired of seeking out her real profile, if it even exists.

Infecting you with a wink

And speaking of Instagram, theres also the possibility thats not just a like hoarder making a fake profile to ensnare you. You see, hackers have been known to disseminate malware on social media before. Facebook and Twitter are obvious, a simple infected link with some convincing text will suffice in most cases. But thats pretty much the same avenue of attack on Instagram as well.

Think about it, youre following what you think is the authentic profile of a celebrity on Instagram. They post something you REALLY want to check out, with a link in a photo caption or bio. So if you feel like you know this person, even as a celebrity, you feel you can trust them to some extent right? And then boom, your phones infected. Thats exactly how a bunch of Russian hackers infected fans of Britney Spears on Instagram, and turned their devices into a botnet.

So if theres one thing you need to keep in mind amidst your gal-hunting, nothings wrong with a pretty face, unless its being puppeted by someone leeching off another persons hard work. In that case, you need to be worried about actual malware rather than the embarrassment of having followed the wrong social media profile. And if you must join in on the Priya Varrier hype, memes are probably still a safe (and hilarious) option, so knock yourself out.

who tf did this  pic.twitter.com/87SlMPWhre             (@firkiii) February 11, 2018

ALSO READ: 7 People Who Became Crazy Famous Overnight On The Internet For Some Truly Bizarre ReasonsNet-Net Lose. The Energy Report 09/14/2021 The PRICE Futures Group - 3 minutes ago What is the world to gain if it gets oil from OPEC plus but loses it in the Gulf of Mexico? The International Energy Agency (IEA) pointed out the obvious, that the loss of production from Hurricane Ida...

Gates, Rockefeller warn leaders about pandemics impact AP - 34 minutes ago Just ahead of the annual meeting of the U.N. General Assembly that opens on Tuesday, leaders of the Gates and Rockefeller Foundations  grant makers that have committed billions of dollars to fight the... $SPX : 4,468.73 (+0.23%) $DOWI : 34,869.63 (+0.76%) $IUXX : 15,434.50 (-0.04%)

German police probe balloon that caused mass blackout AP - 38 minutes ago BERLIN (AP)  German police are investigating the source of a balloon that caused a massive blackout in and around the eastern city of Dresden. $SPX : 4,468.73 (+0.23%) $DOWI : 34,869.63 (+0.76%) $IUXX : 15,434.50 (-0.04%)

Pandemic hasn't dimmed Boeing's rosy prediction for planes AP - 44 minutes ago Boeing said Tuesday that the airline industry is showing signs of recovering from the pandemic, and the company is bullishly predicting a $9 trillion market over the next decade for airline and military... $SPX : 4,468.73 (+0.23%) $DOWI : 34,869.63 (+0.76%) $IUXX : 15,434.50 (-0.04%) BA : 213.10 (-0.64%)

UK recommends COVID-19 booster shots for over 50s AP - 55 minutes ago LONDON (AP)  The U.K. said Tuesday it will offer a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine to everyone over age 50 and other vulnerable people after an an expert panel said the boosters were needed to protect... $SPX : 4,468.73 (+0.23%) $DOWI : 34,869.63 (+0.76%) $IUXX : 15,434.50 (-0.04%)Lambrou will be replaced by James Baum, who currently holds the roles of managing director, commercial, as well as chairman of Aon Broking, Pacific.

Bill Hooper, currently chief financial officer and chief operating officer at Aon Pacific, will add new responsibilities to his current role in the wake of Lambrous departure, the firm also announced.

Hooper will represent the Pacific region on the global Aon Risk Solutions operating committee and will work closely with Baum as he transitions to his new role, the firm said.

Lambrou has worked at Aon for over 20 years and was named CEO of Aon Risk Solutions in Australia in December, 2013. Prior to his time in Australia, Lambrou was head of strategy for Aon Broking, based in Chicago, and has worked for the firm in London.

Baum joined Aon from Marsh in 2005 and has spent time as northern region manager  program design and placement, state manager for New South Wales, as well as managing director and chief broking officer for the Pacific region.



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After disastrous year, insurers urged to prepare

Australias natural tourist spots in the firing line of climate change  report

I look forward to working with Ascot to develop Ethos into the premiere specialty commercial insurance MGA in the US, said Tegan. Ethos is already launching several products into the market, and I expect to help accelerate our growth by expanding our market partnerships and strategic acquisition reach.

The new executive chairmans experience includes over two decades at Aon. He moved and helped lead the formation of RSG in 2010.

We are delighted to have an industry veteran of Jerrys caliber and reputation join the Ethos team, said AGL chief executive Andrew Brooks. His unrivaled experience in the MGA arena adds to the best-in-class talent Ethos continues to attract and strengthens our clear differentiation in the market.

Operating separately from Ascot Underwriting Limited (Syndicate 1414 at Lloyds) and Ascot Underwriting (Bermuda) Limited, Ethos Specialty is dedicated to the development and acquisition of underwriting platforms in both the standard market and excess & surplus arenas.However, the Miami-Dade State Attorneys Office is asking a judge to keep Espinoza in prison until his trial, according to a Miami Herald report.

While the defendants plan with the (informant) has now been exposed, there is no custody-release restriction that this court could possibly impose that would prevent the defendant from contacting any other hitman to carry out his plan, Assistant State Attorney Helen Page Schwartz said in a motion to the court.

Espinoza was arrested in 2014, along with more than 50 other people, when a sweeping investigation found that a fraud ring had scammed insurance companies out of more than $7 million by intentionally setting fires and causing floods in homes, the Herald reported.

Espinoza owned Nationwide Adjusters. Prosecutors said that he worked with recruiters across the state to find homeowners willing to allow him to set fires or flood their homes for insurance money. He had been out on bail awaiting trial, but he was jailed last month for repeatedly failing to appear at hearings.

While in jail, Espinoza ran into a police informant with whom he was acquainted, according to the Herald. Not realizing the man was an informant, Espinoza allegedly asked him whether he could arrange a meeting with a supposed hitman known only as Lazaro. Espinoza allegedly wanted his cases prosecutor, Laura Uriarte, taken care of.

The defendant told the (informant) that the state attorney had been nasty and wouldnt let it go, prosecutors said in a motion to the court.

A few days later, Espinoza was released. An undercover police detective, posing as a contract killer, later called him to try to set up a deal, but the man who answered the phone allegedly blew off the cops offer, the Herald reported.

But when Espinoza was arrested again early this month on new charges that he was stealing electricity to power his home, he ran into the informant again and allegedly said his son had answered the phone and blew off the hitman. He allegedly told the informant that he still wanted to hire a hitman, and that hed set aside $18,000 for that purpose, according to the Herald.

Espinozas defense attorney, Juan Gonzalez, said that there was no truth to the accusations.

There is no evidence and there are no charges, Gonzalez told the Herald. The whole thing seems to be B.S. based on the word of a jailhouse snitch.

And this brings us back to why the FBI's use of Steele as a source was a problem -- a problem the bureau should have seen coming. Steele compiled his dossier as a piece of opposition research. His research was designed to dirty up the Trump campaign. This does not mean it was wrong. Opposition research is supposed to be effective because it's based in fact.

It did, however, mean that Steele's tips for the FBI's investigation would also be shared with journalists. In this case, leads in a sensitive, and by necessity secret, counter-intelligence investigation were also feeding press coverage of Trump at the end of the campaign and during the presidential transition. What's more, law enforcement officials were also anonymously confirming elements of their ongoing investigation to reporters.

The Clinton campaign was within its rights to share its opposition research with reporters. It happens all the time. As the Washington Post reported this week, when its reporters were briefed in the fall of 2016 on Steele's research, they could not confirm it. Steele's allegations became a media feeding frenzy only after reporters learned that the U.S. intelligence community itself had taken an interest in the dossier.

None of this discredits the investigation of the special counsel Robert Mueller into Russia's influence of the 2016 election. Nor does this justify the president's own attacks on the FBI. But it's a reminder that there are many guilty hands and victims in the politicization of the Trump-Russia probe. One of those victims is named Carter Page.

Eli Lake is a Bloomberg View columnist. He was the senior national security correspondent for the Daily Beast and covered national security and intelligence for the Washington Times, the New York Sun and UPI.If the health insurer is making decisions to deny coverage without a physician actually ever reviewing medical records, thats of significant concern to me as insurance commissioner in California - and potentially a violation of law, Jones told CNN. [Its troubling that] during the entire course of time he was employed at Aetna, he never once looked at patients medical records himself.

Its hard to imagine that in that entire course in time, there werent any cases in which a decision about the denial of coverage ought to have been made by someone trained as a physician, as opposed to some other licensed professional. Thats why weve contacted Aetna and asked that they provide us information about how they are making these claims decisions and why weve opened this investigation.

Aetna, which is the third-largest insurance provider with 23.1 million customers, has responded by telling CNN it looks forward to explaining [its] clinical review process to the commissioner.

The shocking admission by Aetnas former medical director came out during a lawsuit filed against the insurer by college student Gillen Washington. The 23-year-old, who suffers from a rare immune disorder, has accused Aetna of breach of contract and bad faith, saying he was denied coverage for an infusion of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) when he was 19. Aetna has rejected the allegations, arguing that Washington failed to comply with their requests for blood infusions.

Iinuma signed the pre-authorization denial of Washingtons care. During his videotaped deposition in October 2016, he said he never read Washingtons medical records and had little idea on how to treat it. He said it was Aetna protocol to base his treatment decisions off pertinent information provided by a nurse, and that he very rarely  zero to none times in the course of a month  called a nurse to ask for more details.

Washingtons attorney, Scott Glovsky, told CNN he had never heard such explosive testimony in two decades of deposing insurance company review doctors. He was not alone in his shock. with Dr. Arthur Caplan, founding director of the division of medical ethics at New York University Langone Medical Center, describing Iinumas testimony as a huge admission of fundamental immorality.

People desperate for care expect at least a fair review by the payer. This reeks of indifference to patients, Caplan said, adding the testimony shows there needs to be more transparency and accountability from private, for-profit insurers in making these decisions.

Aetna provided a written statement when probed by CNN about the California investigation, which said: We have yet to hear from Commissioner Jones but look forward to explaining our clinical review process. Aetna medical directors are trained to review all available medical information - including medical records - to make an informed decision. As part of our review process, medical directors are provided all submitted medical records, and also receive a case synopsis and review performed by a nurse.

Medical directors - and all of our clinicians - take their duties and responsibilities as medical professionals incredibly seriously. Similar to most other clinical environments, our medical directors work collaboratively with our nurses who are involved in these cases and factor in their input as part of the decision-making process.





Related stories:

CVS Health completes acquisition of Aetna

CVS Health and Aetna deal could drive health care costs downOfficials say a fire has destroyed two buildings in Cumberland, Marylands historic district.

The state fire marshals office said Saturday no injuries have been reported.

Nearly 125 firefighters from Maryland and West Virginia were alerted to the blaze shortly after 3 a.m. by a passing cab driver.

A team of fire investigators from the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal and the Cumberland Fire Department investigated the cause and determined the fire started in 29 Prospect Square and caused significant damage to the adjoining address. Neither structure was occupied at the time of the fire.

Damage has been estimated to be about $500,000 to the 6,000-square-foot fire scene, which consists of both buildings. The fire marshals office described the buildings as two-and-a-half-story brick colonial structures.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics MarylandInsurTech startup InsurePal is developing an insurance platform that aims to revolutionize the industrys model for risk selection and fraud prevention by social proofing insurance products.

With a pilot for motor insurance due to be launched in the UK within the next six months, InsurePals blockchain-harnessed platform is designed to be used by insurers that want to sell distributed social proof insurance, which, in essence, relies on the friends and family of policyholders to help with assessing risk.

InsurePal co-founders Matt Peterman and Tom Volk believe existing industry models for doing business need to be challenged and are ripe for disruption. They are convinced that their innovative peer-to-peer insurance model will create a better way for insurers to assess risk while at the same time providing more affordable premiums for customers.

They emphasize, however, that InsurePal is a disrupter that aims to work within the insurance industry, rather than in competition with it. We want to partner with traditional insurance companies and provide them with a tool to do a better risk selection with our innovation: the social proof, said Volk.

Peterman and Volk are industry veterans, each with 15-plus years of experience under their belts. As a result, they have seen firsthand the industrys seemingly intractable problems with fraud, risk assessment and escalating claims. (See related article, which provides a brief overview of Petermans and Volks careers, when they decided to develop a new model for insurance).

For the past five years, Peterman has worked for a company that specializes in fraud detection and underwriting for large insurers such as Allianz, Fosun and Groupama. In this work, he has seen outrageous fraudulent claims that create huge costs for the insurance industry. For example, out of an average annual auto premium of $1,000 in the United States, about $600 to $700 is paid in claims, and approximately 10 percent of those claims are fraudulent, said Peterman, who is also InsurePals CEO.

To combat this problem, insurance companies are investing millions in big data, the Internet of Things (IoT) and telematics, which track driving behavior using connected technology installed in customers cars, said Volk. In addition, they want to connect to your Facebook and dig into your privacy as much as possible to better assess you as a risk and properly calculate your premium, he added.

Volk acknowledged that telematics is reducing fraud. But the downside of telematics is that it is privacy invasive and costs money, which further adds to premium prices.

Insurers are trying to overcome poor risk management with the use of expensive, privacy-invading technological solutions and tracking methods, commented Peterman in a blog he authored on the InsurePal site, titled The dusk of incumbents is the dawn of InsurePal.

Despite all the industrys investment and innovation, Volk said, it has had limited success combatting fraudand premiums will likely keep rising unless a more effective business model can be found.

A better model will be based on social proofing, which provides a more effective, less expensive and non-intrusive solution to risk assessmentand ultimately reduces premiums for good drivers, said Peterman and Volk in an interview with Carrier Management, the sister publication of Insurance Journal.

Social Proofing Explained

Volk explained how social proofing would work in auto insurance, which is the first product the company will offer with partner insurers in the U.K. To illustrate the concept, he described a responsible driver named John who pays $1,000 every year for his car insurance, despite the fact that he has not had any at-fault accidents in years.

On the other hand, InsurePal could provide John with a much better deal, reducing his premium by $400, as long as he can get a friend or family memberan endorserto vouch for his good driving record.

When John gets his friend Mary to be his endorser, she immediately receives an upfront reward of $100 worth of InsurePal tokens (IPL tokens), which can be instantly sold for cash on the token exchange where IPL is listed or invested in InsurePal services. The InsurePal website describes the IPL token as the fuel of InsurePal platform, used by clients and third parties worldwide. (See below for more details about IPL tokens.)

In this model, Mary gets an immediate bonus while John ends up with a cheaper premium. For her participation in the deal, Mary must assume limited financial responsibility for a third-party deductiblein this case $550if John files an at-fault claim.

The insurer, using the InsurePal platform, will only deduct the $550 from Marys credit card if there is an at-fault claim. To be Johns endorser, Mary has to be pretty sure that she is endorsing a diligent and responsible person, otherwise she will be losing money, said Volk.

Volk noted that this third-party deductible is similar to a co-signed loan in banking, when parents co-sign loans for their children. With the InsurePal concept, however, the co-signee is only exposed to the limit of the deductible, rather than the full amount of the insurance liability.

Volk explained that the $550 charge is calculated from the $400 that John saved, Marys $100 worth of IPL tokens and a $50 penalty. The excess above that amount is covered by the insurer, Volk continued.

How is the premium determined? InsurePal will, based on the pricelist submitted by the insurer, do a classical calculation of the price quotation, just as insurance companies do every day for traditional motor insurance. Then, we undercut the price with the social proof, Volk said.

If John can get two people to vouch for him, he will save even more money on his annual auto premiums because he is more trustworthy than someone else who has no endorsers, said Volk.

If your friends trust you, we trust you, he said, repeating one of InsurePals catch phrases, used in its marketing.

Further, Mary and John can adjust the amount of the deductible. Mary can say, Yes, I trust John, but I dont want to take a $550 exposure; Ill take a $100 exposure instead, which Volk explained would reduce Johns premium discount and Marys reward in IPL tokens.

In addition to allowing John to find more endorsers to further cut his insurance premium, InsurePal also will accept mutual endorsers, or couples. Mary and John can mutually endorse each other, as an example. The policy due dates dont need to overlap, Peterman explained.

While InsurePals initial focus is on at-fault jurisdictions across the globe, Peterman explained that social proofing still would be effective at reducing premiums in no-fault jurisdictions such as those in 12 U.S. states, but with a smaller overall effect. However, by helping with underwriting and risk assessment, social proofing would help insurers offer a slightly better rate to drivers, he explained.

Psychology of Social Proofing

Social proofing works because if you know your friend is on the hook for the financial cost of the deductible, you will be more careful, Volk emphasized, explaining that customers will be less likely to file smaller claims because they wont want to jeopardize the friendship or emotional relationship they have with the guarantor.

Another effect of social proof is cherry-picking, because bad risk clients will get fewer or no endorsements, said Peterman.

Social proofing will help reduce claims frequency, which in turn provides enough savings that we can give out pretty big discounts to our customers, he continued.

Our idea is to offer a significantly lower premium to all insureds that get a proof of trust from one or more people, said Peterman in the article he authored. During the interview, he said that social proofing generates a Social Proof Trust Score, which indicates the level of trust these policyholders get from their community. The score helps the insurer using InsurePals platform with its risk assessment.

Social proof is peer pressure put to good use. It motivates beneficiary behavioral patterns and changes groups and even society for better without aggressively invading privacy, said InsurePal on its website.

Peterman and Volk are so convinced that social proofing will revolutionize the industry that InsurePal has filed for a patent in the United States and worldwide to cover any combination of insurance and third-party guaranteeing.

Target Groups

One of InsurePals principal target groups is millennials because as young drivers with no claims history they pay tremendously high insurance premiums, said Volk. They are treated as bad risks until they prove that they are diligent and responsible, he said, explaining that parents or relatives of millennials and their friends would be the endorsers.

Parents generally know which of their children are responsible and could even endorse one child and not another, he said. One kid may like to party a lot and behave irresponsibly, while the other child is really responsible and doesnt drink and drive. With his parents endorsement, Volk added, the responsible child will have much lower auto premiums with InsurePal.

The social proofing concept also would work well for people who make lower salarieswho are good drivers but must work hard to pay the bills at the end of every month, including the high costs of their auto insurance.

Peterman cited a conversation that he and Volk had with a San Francisco taxi driver. We asked the driver, How much do you pay for your insurance? The driver said: Three thousand dollars, although he had not had one at-fault claim in the past five years. When asked if he could find an endorser, the driver said: Yes, I could find people to endorse me. With InsurePal insurance, this driver would receive significant annual savings in his auto premiums, Peterman noted.

Mutual Roots of Insurance

Social proofing is nothing new, Peterman and Volk emphasize. It actually harkens back to the roots of commercial insurance when shipowners in Edward Lloyds coffee house in Londonthe precursor of Lloyds of Londondecided to band together to share, or mutualize, the risk of shipping goods to the New World and back. Volk explained that these shipowners knew each other and knew very well which of their compatriots were responsible, maintained their vessels and hired good captains. If one owner stopped being diligent and responsible, stopped maintaining ships, or hired bad captains, they would expel him [from the risk], he said.

Over the years, however, insurance evolved and became centralized, with the insurance company doing the risk assessments and pricing, Volk explained. The idea was lost that if you cheat the insurance company, you also are cheating all your peers who have to pay higher premiums because of your bad behavior.

Blockchain-Powered Platform

Key to the companys social proof insurance is the blockchain technology that the platform will harness. InsurePal aims to be among the early adopters of blockchain technology in InsurTech, to offer modern insurance at an affordable price, said Peterman in his blog on the InsurePal site.

Blockchainthe current technological buzzwordalso is known as mutual distributed ledger technology, which provides shared records of transactions that reside in multiple locations and have no central ownership. Additions and corrections can be made, but theres always a permanent record of the original document.

InsurePals blockchain-harnessed platform powers the ledger that is distributed among its customers, hence its offering of distributed social proof insurance.

Social proofing is a process that is, by its nature, decentralized and is therefore perfect for a blockchain, Peterman said. With the traditional insurance market, a customers personal data is held by the insurer on a centralized basis, he explained. However, with InsurePals blockchain platform, the customer will retain the data and the social proof endorsements and will be the only person who has the key to it. Whenever you want to submit some of the data to the insurance company, you provide the key for a single, limited access to your data.

Blockchains immutable record is a secure way to store the social proof into the distributed ledger and will bring personal data back from insurance companies to users, said InsurePal on its website.

For the Future

InsurePal plans to expand social proof insurance from motor insurance to life and health and propertyall dependent on endorsements from the customers trusted social network.

Social proofing works with life insurance because your friends know if you smoke or not, or if you go to the gym and exercise, explained Volk. Your friends will know if you have a gym pass but dont actually exercise.

InsurePal also is planning to use social proofing to insure business transactions across the globe, supported by blockchain-based smart contracts.

For example, if a person living in central Africa sells a mobile phone to someone in Albania on eBay, eBay acts as a third-party guarantor of the transaction. Using InsurePal, however, any two parties could do business together without an intermediary like eBay, as long as the transaction is insured and they have social proofed endorsements and a Social Proof Trust Score. Then, instead of eBay, their local insurers, insuring their liability, would act as guarantors for the transaction.

InsurePals blockchain business transactions module, using a smart contract, would permit two parties to form an upfront agreement in which they specify the terms and conditions of their transaction, the penalty for breaching a contract, and what to do if a dispute cant be resolved, according to a commentary on the InsurePal site. Both parties would agree that the final compensation for any breaching of the agreement is a financial compensation up to a maximum fee agreed upon in the contract.

If their contract is breached, insurance pays the penalty partly from an InsurePal insurance pool and partly by collecting deductibles from the endorsers of the party causing the breach, according to a white paper titled Distributed Social Proof Insurance, which was authored by Peterman and Volk and is available on the companys website.

By insuring the financial compensation of an unrealized deal to the injured party, we will establish trust among all the stakeholders and greatly accelerate the quality and quantity of all future blockchain business transactions, the white paper said.

This module for blockchain business transactions insurance will be available in six to nine months, Peterman and Volk affirmed.

InsurePal Token

Also key to the InsurePal model are the InsurePal (IPL) tokens, the currency behind the insurance transactions. First, they will be used to provide endorsers with their reward, which can be sold for cash on the IPL exchange.

The tokens also are the currency used to buy InsurePals products. The InsurePal platform uses different incentives to motivate participants, the website said. Discount conversion to tokens will be incentivized, therefore InsurePal will have to convert a significant percentage of each new premium into IPL tokens and give them back to the policyholders and their endorsers, it added. All third parties selling their social proof insurance will also be obliged to use IPL tokens and trade them on exchanges.

Peterman described IPL tokens as crypto-tokens, housed on Ethereums blockchain platform. They are unique to InsurePals platform.

When asked if the InsurePal tokens could escalate in value, similar to bitcoin, a representative said that the company does not speculate about the price of the token.

However, Peterman noted that the tokens are digital and can be split into smaller parts, which means that as a reward in case of growth of IPL token, endorsers get a fraction of a token, not the full token. (The value of the token will be defined by consumer demand and will rise and fall in value).

Funding

InsurePal has raised $18 million in recent token sales. People participating in the sale bought IPL tokens up front, which can be used later to buy insurance products from the InsurePal platform, said Volk. He noted that the sale was extremely successful and, in fact, was oversubscribed by $114 million, which had to be returned to participants.

The funding will be used to roll out the next phase of the companys evolution, which is to offer U.K. motor car insurance via a managing general agent as its licensed insurance partner or through a partnering with a licensed insurer.

Peterman said they have had discussions with various insurers, reinsurers and consultants who have checked out the InsurePal model and believe that it works.

Now its up to us to prove that it works. We are pretty convinced that this model will be the next big thing, said Volk.

This article first appeared in Insurance Journals sister publication, Carrier Management.

Related:

Firsthand Knowledge of Industrys Problems Led to Idea for InsurePals Social Proofing

Topics Carriers USA Auto Claims Fraud InsurTech Tech MarketArgoGlobal, the Lloyds insurer and member of Argo Group, announced the launch of the first Lloyds market consortium for motor treaty business.

The consortium, led by ArgoGlobal and supported by Barbican Insurance Group, was established in time for Jan. 1 and will allow carriers to write up to 10 percent of a motor placement.

Stuart Dale, International Casualty Treaty class underwriter, will lead the consortium, which will bring new capacity to the market, enable its members to underwrite significantly more premium and consolidate Lloyds markets with an interest in writing this class in London, said ArgoGlobal in a statement.

By challenging the status quo and developing an innovative solution, we can better deploy our expertise, leverage our underwriting experience, and bring new capacity to the market for the benefit of both clients and brokers, Dale said.

We are now ideally placed to operate alongside the leading players in London and across Europe, he added.

This is a scalable initiative we aim to potentially grow with new capacity. It will also allow us to realize further opportunities created by changes in the rating and regulatory environment, Dale said, noting that there are clear opportunities in this sector.

Tim Mackenzie, underwriting manager for International Casualty Reinsurance at Barbican, said: We are very pleased to support Stuart and ArgoGlobal in this new initiative. The motor market offers a good opportunity to diversify our portfolio and there is clearly scope for the consortium to carve a niche in this area and to challenge the traditional markets in Europe.

About ArgoGlobal and Barbican

ArgoGlobal is the trading brand of Syndicate 1200 at Lloyds, managed by Argo Managing Agency Ltd. The Syndicate offers worldwide property, aerospace, marine, energy, specialty and non-U.S. liability insurance.

Formed in 2007, Barbican Insurance Group underwrites business predominantly through its syndicates at Lloyds. Barbicans lines of business include marine, aviation and transport re/insurance, property re/insurance, energy and specialty lines including casualty reinsurance, cyber liability, healthcare liability, financial and professional lines and professional indemnity.

Barbican also has a non-Lloyds financial solutions business based in Guernsey which offers insurance and reinsurance programs to the global market.

Source: ArgoGlobal

Topics Excess Surplus Reinsurance New Markets Lloyd'sHub International Limited (Hub), a Chicago-based insurance broker, announced it has acquired the shares of Canadian broker Kindersley Insurance Ltd.

Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Headquartered in Kindersley, Saskatchewan, with an office in Dodsland, Kindersley Insurance Ltd. is a full-service, independent personal and commercial insurance brokerage that specializes in insurance solutions for the agriculture, oil field and trucking industries.

Principals Mark Stockford and Barry Andrew will join Hub Manitoba and report to Doug Trapp, vice president of Hubs Saskatchewan Region.

Hub International Ltd. is committed to growing organically and through acquisitions to expand its geographic footprint and strengthen industry and product expertise, the company said in a statement.

Source: Hub International

Topics Mergers Agencies CanadaAn Illinois jurys medical malpractice award has been slashed by $15 million because the injured woman died the day before the 2015 trial verdict.

The Chicago Daily Law Bulletin reports Illinois 1st District Appellate Court reduced the award from $22 million to $7 million. Among the reasons cited was that money intended for Jeanette Turners future suffering was no longer relevant because she was no longer alive.

Her daughter sought the full award and plans an appeal.

Turner sued Mercy Hospital & Medical Center, accusing doctors not caring for her properly after installing a tracheostomy tube. A blood clot developed, which eventually led to brain damage.

A wrongful death lawsuit is now possible if Turners estate can prove her death stemmed from the hospital injuries at issue.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Illinois Medical Professional LiabilityAuto manufacturers, technology companies, road safety advocates and policy makers will attend a March 1 conference over potential government actions that could speed the rollout of autonomous cars, the U.S. Transportation Department said on Friday.

Last month, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said the Trump administration plans to unveil revised self-driving car guidelines this summer as the government sets out to rewrite regulations that pose legal barriers to robot vehicles.

Next months summit is to help identify priority federal and non-federal activities that can accelerate the safe rollout of autonomous vehicles, the department said. It will also be open to the public.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic-Safety Administration (NHTSA) wants comments on what research to conduct before deciding whether to eliminate or rewrite regulations. It could take the agency years to finalize rule changes, and advocates are pushing Congress to act.

In October, the NHTSA said it is looking for ideas on how it can remove regulatory roadblocks to robot cars. NHTSA said it wants to find any unnecessary regulatory barriers to self-driving cars particularly those that are not equipped with controls for a human driver.

The March 1 meeting at the departments headquarters in Washington will include several stakeholder breakout sessions on various topics related to automation, NHTSA said.

Legislation to speed introduction of self-driving cars unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives in September but stalled in the Senate over concerns from a small number of Democrats.

Automakers must meet nearly 75 auto safety standards, many of which were written with the assumption that a licensed driver will be in control of the vehicle.

General Motors Co., Alphabet Inc., Tesla Inc. and others have lobbied for the landmark legislation, while auto safety groups urged more safeguards.

Last September, Chao announced the first set of revisions to the guidelines unveiled by the Obama administration.

In early January, GM filed a petition with NHTSA requesting an exemption to have a small number of autonomous vehicles operate in a ride-share program without steering wheels or human drivers that could begin in 2019. NHTSA is reviewing the petition and has not yet certified it as complete, an interim step before deciding on the merits of the proposal.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; editing by Grant McCool)

Related:

Topics USA Legislation Auto Politics Autonomous VehiclesTakata Corp.s U.S. unit reached a settlement with its creditors, lawyers for those injured by its deadly air bags and automakers that smoothes the way to end its Chapter 11 bankruptcy and sell its viable operations, according to court papers.

The Japanese companys air bags can explode with too much force and have been linked to at least 21 deaths and hundreds of injuries, prompting the largest recall in automotive history and forcing Takata and its U.S. unit, TK Holdings Inc, into bankruptcy.

The U.S. unit was gearing up for a court fight starting on Tuesday to get approval for its plan to exit bankruptcy over the opposition of a committee for injured drivers and a separate committee of unsecured creditors.

But those two committees, automakers and Key Safety Systems, which is acquiring the viable business lines of Takata, reached a deal that resolves the biggest objections to the plan, according to court documents filed on Saturday.

Under the agreement, a trust will be established to pay compensation for those injured or killed by the air bags, which will be funded in part by automakers surrendering some of their claims against Takata.

The 13 automakers which joined the agreement include General Motors Co, Ford Motor Co, Toyota Motor Corp , and the U.S. affiliates of Honda Motor Co Ltd and Volkswagen AG.

An amended plan of reorganization will be filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court soon, according to Takatas U.S. unit.

Tuesdays court hearing had been adjourned to Thursday at the earliest, Takatas U.S. unit said in court papers filed on Sunday.

A spokesman for the U.S. unit and lawyers for the committee of injured drivers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The trust will pay compensation based on the injury, ranging from $10,000 for bruising to $5 million for death or loss of eyesight, according to court documents.

If the agreement is approved by the Bankruptcy Court in Wilmington, Delaware, injured drivers will be prevented from suing the automakers that joined the agreement.

A lawyer appointed to represent future injured drivers also joined the settlement, as did KeySafety Systems, a unit of Chinas Ningo Joyson Electric Corp.

Key Safety Systems plans to acquire Takatas viable operations for $1.6 billion. The proceeds will fund restitution claims for automakers and help pay injury claims as part of a plea deal with the U.S. Department of Justice.

(Reporting by Tom Hals in Wilmington, Del.; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Peter Cooney)

Topics USA Personal AutoBrit Ltd. has appointed Marc Robinson and Yasuaki Saegusa to the Marine business of Brit Global Specialty USA.

Robinson joins BGSU as assistant vice president and will be based in the Hartford, Connecticut office. He will be responsible for the underwriting of BGSUs yacht portfolio. He joins BGSU from Falvey Yacht Insurance where he was the lead underwriter on business for yachts up to $20 million. Robinson will report to Craig McGinnes, vice president, Yacht.

Saegusa joins BGSU as vice president in Cargo and will be based in Newport Beach, California office. He will develop GSUs cargo book on the West Coast. He joins BGSU from American International Group, where he was the manager of Marine for western North America and the lead cargo underwriter. Saegusa will report to William Frohne, vice president, Cargo.

These appointments follow the launch of BGSUs Marine business in 2016 headed by Tom Carroll, senior vice president, Marine at BGSU and are part of Brits strategy to expand its regional footprint in the Americas.The Cherokee Nation has refiled a lawsuit against opioid distributors in state court after a federal judge ruled that tribes court system had no jurisdiction over the companies.

Lawyers filed the suit in Sequoyah County, which is part of the tribes 14-county jurisdiction. It names Walmart, CVS, Walgreens and major U.S. drug distributors.

The Cherokees sued six companies last year, accusing them of failing to prevent illegally prescribed opioids from getting into the hands of its citizens. The distributors have denied any wrongdoing and say theyve followed the law.

The Cherokees are among several tribes, state governments and prosecutors who have recently filed similar suits against the opioid industry. The Tahlequah-based Cherokees have about 350,000 citizens.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits DrugsIf you love the historic water-powered Bale Grist Mill and youd like to share its history with the public, the Napa Valley State Parks Association is recruiting two or more paid millers.

The recruitment orientation will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 3, at the Bale Grist Mill State Park, 3369 St. Helena Highway, between St. Helena and Calistoga.

If you are interested in attending the orientation or have questions about the position, email Sandy Jones at spjones.223@gmail.com or call the mill on the weekends, 963-2236.

Jones explains what it takes to be a miller: It entails the desire to share our history and keep it growing by learning and understanding the mechanics of a water-powered mill. Youll learn the history, work the mill and share both with the public on weekends.

Additionally, successful millers will be able to lift 50 pounds, have basic mechanical skills, a real interest in interpreting history to the public and a cheerful willingness to help keep the work area and mill clean and functioning.A peer review of the San Antonio Fire Department reveals that commanders and firefighters made several mistakes while battling a blaze at a shopping center that killed one of them.

Fire Chief Charles Hood provided an overview of the reviews summary report on Thursday. The report was released Friday by the Texas State Fire Marshals Office.

The review by the Houston Fire Department found that the SAFD treated the May fire at Ingram Square Shopping Center like they would a residential fire, not a commercial one.

Firefighters reportedly searched for survivors in the building despite conditions indicating that no one would have survived, according to the review. The fire crew that went in also didnt have a fire hose, which is considered a lifeline in a fire incident.

A firefighter who entered the shopping center pulled ceiling tiles that resulted in the fire coming down on him and firefighter Scott Deem, who was killed. Pulling down ceiling tiles is typically done to find a fires origin, not during search and rescue operations, according to the report.

Hood acknowledged that the department made mistakes, backing off his original claim that what they did was the right decision at the time. But he maintained that none of the mistakes led to Deems death or the injuries to two other firefighters.

Were dedicating resources and personnel to make sure this never happens again, Hood said. We want to learn from these findings.

Months after the fire, authorities arrested a man and charged him with one count of murder and four arson-related counts. Authorities alleged that the man used a disposable cigarette lighter to ignite a combination of gasoline and oil. He remains in jail in lieu of posting $1.63 million bail.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.Broken equipment inside a steel conveyor belt sparked the first explosion at the Imperial Sugar refinery in Port Wentworth on a mild winter night 10 years ago.

The initial blast rocked the building, jolting more dust into the air. And like so much tiny kindling, that dust ignited seconds later, creating a fireball visible miles away.

Eight workers died that night and six more eventually succumbed to their burns. Dozens others were injured but survived, 14 of them spending months at the Joseph M. Still Burn Center in Augusta.

Those lives lost from the Feb. 7, 2008, tragedy were Eric Barnes, John Calvin Butler Jr., Truitt Byers, Alphonso Fields Sr., Michael Kelly Fields, Malcolm Frazier, McKinley Von Habersham Sr., Shelathia Shon Harvey, Earl Johnson, Patricia Ann Pat Lowe Proctor, Earl Quarterman, Byron Singleton, Tony Thomas and Michael Big Mike Williams.

Better housekeeping would have prevented any loss of life, a federal investigation determined.

The tragedy and its aftermath reached deep into the community, in part because it happened at a refinery that had been a major employer in the area since 1917 and where 121 people were working that night.

Growing up here, who doesnt know somebody from the Savannah sugar refinery? said Savannah assistant fire chief William Handy, 45, a captain that February night in 2008. You knew somebody who worked there or you knew somebody who knew somebody who worked there.

The repercussions of the fire reflected those connections as the community waited first for bodies to be recovered, then for survivors to come home from the burn center, and finally, and in some cases in vain, for restitution, accountability and measures to prevent the next disaster.

Investigations

Immediately after the fire, the federal U.S. Chemical Safety Board and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigated. Both inquiries found company officials knew for years about deadly hazards at the Port Wentworth site, but didnt correct them.

The probes concluded that highly combustible sugar dust, which hung in the air and piled up knee-high in places, fueled the explosions and fire. OSHA issued 124 safety citations at Imperial, most of which the agency called willful, meaning the company acted with plain indifference to, or intentional disregard for, employee safety and health.

Imperial Sugar agreed in July 2010 to pay more than $4 million for safety violations at its Port Wentworth refinery as part of a company-wide $6 million settlement with regulators. It also accepted a three-year program of intensive OSHA oversight at its Port Wentworth refinery.

In the agreement, Imperial admitted no wrongdoing, but no longer contested OSHAs citations.

OSHA did request that the office of U.S. Attorney Edward J. Tarver consider criminal charges, but Tarver announced in February 2013 that he would not pursue a prosecution of Imperial or any of its executives, citing insufficient evidence and a lack of a felony provision under the prevailing statute.

The Texas-based Imperial Sugar rebuilt its Port Wentworth plant, resuming the shipment of bulk sugar in July 2009 and reopening its blast-damaged section in November of that year. The company touted the new plant as the most modern and efficient sugar refinery in the country, with state-of-the-art technologies and safety. Its reopening in otherwise bleak economic times near the start of the Recession brought relief to the workers who depended on it for their livelihoods.

A lot of those guys were in their 40s and 50s and you just dont find another job at that age if thats where youve been your whole life. People were worried, Glenn Pig Jones, former mayor of Port Wentworth, said recently. I remember when the CEO got up there and they committed to reopening and I know that was a sigh of relief at least at a personal standpoint when people were realizing down the road when they said they were going to rebuild.

Switzerland-based agribusiness giant Louis Dreyfus Commodities bought Imperial in 2010, including the refinery in Port Wentworth.

Litigation

The $6 million settlement with OSHA set the stage for civil cases for damages to proceed.

Forty-four civil cases for damages stemming from the inferno were filed in Chatham County State Court before Judge Hermann Coolidge. He ruled in August 2010 that in several cases sufficient issues of fact existed for juries to determine damage claims, but none of the cases ever went before a jury. Instead, all cases settled out of court or were resolved. All of the settlements including language preventing disclosure of what defendants agreed to pay.

Savannah attorney Brent Savage, who had a dozen of the cases, said at the time that defendants have played hardball to keep these people from every getting properly compensated for their claims.

The settlements were an attempt to do the best we could for a devastating loss, Savage said last month.

And Savannah attorney Mark Tate said he represented 15 individuals in State Court suits in the case and arrived at settlements for each, which allowed them to begin to put their lives back together.

Two other suits were filed before Chatham County Superior Court Judge Louisa Abbot. Both were settled after protracted motions and appeals.

Subsequently, Savage filed suit in State Court for the families of five children of victims of the fire and explosion after discovering that money held in trust for them in Chatham County Probate Court was missing through the misconduct of fired clerk Kim Birge. Those claims totaling $81,109 were later recovered through litigation and restored to the victims.

Birge would plead guilty in U.S. District Court in July 2015 to stealing $232,000 from the court. Included in those were 33 individual victims, including some Imperial Sugar claimants. U.S. District Judge William T. Moore Jr. sentenced Birge, 63, in October 2015 to six years in federal prison and ordered to make restitution of more than $751,000 for her admissions.

Labor protections languish

Even before the Imperial explosion, there was a push to correct the problem of combustible dust in the workplace nationwide. The CSB called for a new combustible dust standard in 2006, but OSHA responded instead with a program that called mainly for increased inspections. After 14 people died at Imperial, however, OSHA announced in April 2009 that it was initiating a comprehensive rulemaking on combustible dust. The process progressed through early 2010 with an announcement of the agencys intent to promulgate a dust standard plus a comment period and a series of stakeholder meetings.

But the next required step in the federal rulemaking process, the convening of a Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act panel, was postponed eight times over the course of five years. During that time the CSB openly criticized OSHAs responses to its recommendations on combustible dust, with its board designating a Combustible Dust Standard as a Most Wanted regulation.

On March 30, 2017, OSHA withdrew its rulemaking proposal to create a standard for combustible dust in general industry due to resource constraints and other priorities.

Meanwhile, workers continue to die in combustible dust incidents. Since the Imperial explosion, the CSB has completed three combustible dust investigations that killed eight workers. Another investigation is ongoing into an explosion at a milling company in Wisconsin that claimed five lives on May 31, 2017.

Had OSHA implemented the first CSB recommendations for a combustible dust standard in 2006 and if industry had followed those requirements, many of the severe dust incidents that followed . might have been prevented, said then-CSB chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso in a video the board produced in 2014.

Local response upgrades

The emergency response to the Imperial blaze did bring about some changes to safeguard the community, said Savannah assistant fire chief William Handy.

In all, 22 different departments and a total of 232 firefighters responded to the fire with the Port Wentworth department responding first and establishing command. Savannah, offering mutual aid, arrived quickly from a station 4 at West Bay Street near I-516.

Within 91 minutes, every worker who survived the blast had been transported from the scene. No new injuries were reported during the firefighting, search, rescue, recovery and investigative operations that followed.

Handy himself was a captain assigned to the second-day rescue and recovery effort.

My personal vivid memory is the magnitude of the devastation, he said. There were the interior portions of the plant we were going into to perform searches that were just a pile of rubber. You had foot-thick concrete floors buckled. Holes were in the concrete. A building that once had brick on the outside had just a metal framework left.

After the initial night of firefighting officials knew the water supply on site was compromised and called on Williams Fire & Hazard Control to bring in specialized equipment to pump water from the Savannah River. Capable of pouring up more than 5,000 gallons of water per minute it put out the remaining molten sugar fires in the plants silos.

Handy said that effort led to the formation of a consortium of riverfront industries that partnered with the Savannah Fire Department to later buy and maintain the same type of equipment. It was a crucial part of fighting Savannahs next large riverfront fire when in February of 2014 fire burned 1,800 tons of crude rubber at a Georgia Ports Authority warehouse. No one was injured.

We can tap into the Savannah River, which is a good supply, and we have pumps that can pull that out and use it for firefighting, Handy said.

Communication upgrades also followed the Imperial fire. During that fire, the multiple EMS and fire departments that responded could each communicate on only one radio channel. The 911 Center also now has the ability to connect different channels.

Firefighters have to glean what lessons they can from a fire like Imperial because its impossible to stage an exercise of that scope.

You dont train for that magnitude, Handy said. How do you anticipate that magnitude?

WJCL contributed to this story.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics USA Workers' Compensation GeorgiaThe wife of a conductor killed in the crash of an Amtrak train with a parked freight train in South Carolina earlier this month filed suit Thursday against Amtrak and the other rail company, saying they were to blame for the mans death.

In the lawsuit, Michael Cellas widow accuses Amtrak and CSX Corp. of negligence in the death of her husband. Cella, 36, and Amtrak engineer Michael Kempf, 54, were killed Feb. 4 when their New York-to-Miami passenger train slammed into a CSX freight train stopped on a sidetrack. More than 100 passengers were injured.

CSX, which owns the freight train and operates the track on which both trains were traveling, was negligent in a number of areas, according to the suit filed in Florida. That includes failing to make sure a warning signal system was in place, and also locking a manual switch that forced the passenger train onto the side track where the empty freight train was parked, it said.

Investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board have said that, after offloading cargo at a nearby yard, the empty CSX train was moved to a side track with a train switch locked in place. When the Amtrak train came along, it diverted onto the siding, slamming into the CSX train.

Because of that negligence, according to the suit, Cella was forced to endure the horrendous fear of his pending demise as the Amtrak Train approached the deadly collision point, his final moments marked by great conscious pain and suffering.

The suit also said CSX deliberately disabled warning signals along the pathway that would have warned oncoming trains about the diversion and also didnt have a safety system installed that could have likely prevented the crash.

The system, called positive train control, uses sensors and GPS to prevent trains from colliding or derailing. Investigators have said that warning signals had been disabled in the area of the crash because that control system was in the process of being installed.

Congress mandated the use of positive train control in 2008, but its implementation has been delayed. Rail companies currently have until the end of this year to put it in place.

The lawsuit accuses Amtrak, Cellas employer, of failing to ensure he had a safe working environment. Both Amtrak and CSX declined to comment on the suit, which seeks unspecified damages. One of the passengers injured in the crash also has filed suit against CSX.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits South CarolinaA joint investigation between the Mississippi State Fire Marshals Office, Mississippi Delta Community College (MDCC) Police Department, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, Sunflower County Sheriffs Department, and the Sunflower County Emergency Management has resulted in the arrest of an individual for the Dec. 14, 2017 fire at Mississippi Delta Community College in Moorhead, Miss.

According to a statement from the Mississippi Department of Insurance, Timothy Jones, of Indianola, Miss., was arrested in January by the Mississippi Delta Community College Police Department and charged with one count of arson in the first degree and one count of arson in the third degree along with several other felony charges from assisting agencies.

The fire was intentionally set in the Administration Building of the college on the morning of Dec. 14, 2017, and a van belonging to the college was stolen and set on fire a few miles from the school. The blaze destroyed more than half of the building.

This arson case was solved quickly thanks to the teamwork and cooperation of state and local agencies, Commissioner of Insurance and State Fire Marshal Mike Chaney said.

MDCC President, Dr. Larry Nabors also praised the team effort.

We at MDCC would like to thank the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and the State Fire Marshals Office who have worked tirelessly in a collaborative effort with our campus police department. The Deputy State Fire Marshal was quick to arrive on the scene the morning of the fire, and the MBIs assistance began shortly after. The college is greatly appreciative of both agencies solid direction and dedication to the investigation. A large part of the swift movement

in this case is due to their thought, planning, and action, said Dr. Nabors.

Source: Mississippi Insurance Department

Topics Education Mississippi Universities ArsonThe New Mexico Court of Appeals has upheld the ruling in a $165 million lawsuit against FedEx filed after a deadly accident involving a contracted FedEx truck.

Las Cruces Sun-News reports the 2011 crash west of Las Cruces killed three people including the truck driver and left a baby severely injured.

Alfredo Morga filed a personal injury and wrongful death lawsuit against FedEx over the loss of his wife, Marialy Venegas, and his daughter, Ylairam Morga.

Venegas parents also joined the lawsuit.

According to court records, after a Santa Fe jury ruled in a favor of the family, FedEx filed an appeal arguing that the verdict was tainted by passion, prejudice, partiality, sympathy, undue influence, or a mistaken measure of damages.

The Appeals Court rejected the companys argument on Feb. 6.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits MexicoA proposed law in the state legislature would require insurance companies to cover air ambulance rides to the mainland for critical procedures not offered in Hawaii.

The measure would take the burden off families that are put in tough situations due to the cost of air ambulance rides, KHON-TV reported.

Tammy Tam, wife of the late former Deputy Attorney General Rodney Tam, said she experienced firsthand how current policies complicate care.

Tam said that when her husband fell ill, doctors told them he needed a lung transplant, which couldnt be done in Hawaii. Her insurance covered the transplant, but she had to pay out of pocket for the flight to California on a specialized plane.

Because it is not a provided benefit by the insurance company, the families have to come up with the cash 100 percent paid in full before they will even start to make any arrangements to bring the (medical) teams over, Tam said.

Such a flight costs anywhere from $80,000 to $130,000.

The time it took to coordinate it all and to recognize that this is what he needed just caused other things to fail, Tam said. So he ended up having kidney, liver, and lung failure.

Her husband died July 4. He never got the lung transplant he desperately needed.

The burden on the families that are already extremely distressed, I dont even know how to explain the relief that it would have been if the cost of transportation was not an issue, Tam said.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics CarriersRocklin, CA, February 12, 2018- Builders & Tradesmens Insurance Services, Inc. (BTIS) is pleased to announce the ability to submit Workers Comp risks through the Appulate platform.

Were excited to be partnering with Appulate to provide more avenues for our producers to quote their Workers Comp business, said Paul Hohlbein, President of BTIS. We believe this option will make accessing Workers Comp products through BTIS faster, more efficient, and more profitable for many producers.

BTIS now partners with Appulate to allow an additional way for producers to quickly and easily submit Workers Comp business. The software will bridge incoming submission data from retail producers to automatically populate BTISs own rating system. Using Appulate has no cost to retail producers.

Were excited to offer this new submission option, and to provide the same superior customer service we have been for years, said Hohlbein.

Producers can access the program by registering with Appulate at https://btis.appulate.com/signin. For more information contact BTIS directly at 877.649.6682.

About Appulate

Founded in 2005, Appulate offers an unprecedented level of connectivity to streamline business processes through its innovative abilities to bridge data between insurance systems. Today, Appulate technology is used by more than 30,000 agents and has been recognized by key industry groups and analysts for its contribution to time and cost savings. The combination of Appulates advanced technology, outstanding lever of service and high value proposition have made them one of the fastest growing technology companies that serve the insurance industry.

About BTIS

BTIS is an insurance intermediary company focused on serving small businesses with commercial lines products. In addition to offering a full suite of insurance products, BTIS is committed to exemplary service and relationships. Headquartered in Rocklin, California.

Media Contact

Paul Hohlbein

BTIS

916.772.9200

Topics Workers' Compensation New MarketsThe ever-increasing complexity of our securities laws has led to a great deal of confusion among investors over the differences between mutual funds and variable annuity sub-accounts. Are they the same thing or aren't they? And if they really are mutual funds, then why can't we just call them that? This article examines the similarities and differences between the two vehicles, and why a division exists between them.

Mutual Funds Overview

Regardless of whether they are open or closed end or trade on an exchange, mutual funds are by nature stand-alone entities. They are not offered in conjunction with any other security or investment, and each one has its own ticker symbol. Although some are managed for tax efficiency, they are not inherently tax-deferred vehicles.

Sub-Account History

In order to best understand the differences between funds and sub-accounts, it may help to understand how sub-accounts were created to begin with. In the past, life insurance companies had traditionally only offered fixed annuities and whole or universal life policies that guaranteed the holder's principal plus interest.

In the 1980s, they decided to start offering a new breed of policies and contracts, which allowed their customers to participate in the equity and fixed-income markets. Up until this time, a fixed annuity holder simply owned a single contract that paid a guaranteed rate of interest. But variable annuity policyholders would now have several different ways in which to invest the proceeds of their contracts. Therefore, mutual funds were introduced in the form of sub-accounts that allowed customers to choose between various types of investment alternatives.

So What Is It?

The selection of sub-accounts available in a particular contract is determined by agreement between insurers and fund companies. Insurance carriers will approach various mutual fund families and offer to place one or more of their funds inside their variable products. Most insurers will offer funds from at least a half-dozen different companies, usually including at least one of each family's flagship funds. Of course, the fund company benefits from having its Sub-account funds distributedand marketedby the insurance carrier.

Sub-Accounts Vs. Mutual Funds

Characteristically speaking, variable sub-accounts are, for all practical purposes, mutual funds in disguise. In fact, some sub-accounts are virtual (if not exact) clones of their fund counterparts. They look and act like mutual funds, but there are a few differences that separate them from their independent cousins.

Tax-Deferred Accounts: Variable sub-accounts will differ slightly in terms of daily price and performance, costs and fees and capital gains distributions. This last point becomes apparent on an annual basis, when all taxable mutual funds must declare and distribute their realized capital gains to shareholders on a pro rata basis. Variable sub-accounts will not do this, since they grow tax-deferred inside an annuity or insurance shell product. Because there is no need to do so, variable sub-account managers can manage these portfolios without regard to tax efficiency, which in turn affects the overall return realized by investors. Of course, in addition to the standard portfolio management expenses that come with any professionally managed investment vehicle, variable sub-accounts also present the standard range of fees and benefits that come with any variable annuity or life insurance contract, such as living and death benefits, mortality and expense fees, maintenance fees and other costs that are subtracted from the returns generated by the sub-accounts. Policy Changes: These differences eventually came to the attention of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Because of the strict laws pertaining to the characteristics of securities and how they are classified, regulators finally decided that the aforementioned differences necessitated the classification of sub-accounts as wholly separate securities. Therefore, they must be assigned different names and CUSIP numbers. Their historical performances must be listed separately as well, distinct from the track records posted by the original underlying funds. Of course, this can easily confuse investors when they attempt to evaluate the historical performance of a given sub-account. For example, if a certain mutual fund has performed solidly over the last 30 years, then an investor looking for that fund within a variable contract may not recognize its correlating sub-account name and symbol. Furthermore, if the historical performance of the sister sub-account only goes back a few years (which is the case with most sub-accounts since this rule has not been in effect all that long), then an uninformed investor may never even suspect that the sub-account really is a similar version of the fund that they are seeking. In this case, an investor that understands the correlation should probably pay more attention to the historical performance of the underlying fund than that posted by the sub-account, since both securities are ultimately managed by the same group of managers following the same philosophy, despite the differences in fees and tax management.

A Working Example

Allianz Life Insurance Co. has placed the Davis New York Venture Fund (NYVTX; CUSIP: 239080-104) inside its variable contracts and policies. It therefore created a corresponding sub-account known as the AZL Davis New York Venture Fund. It is managed by Allianz Investment Management LLC, a registered investment advisor and affiliate of Allianz Life Insurance Co. of North America, and sub-advised by Davis Advisors since March 2004. The CUSIP for this sub-account is 018821306. Since its inception, the sub-account has performed marginally worse than the original fund (A-shares) but can still be considered to be a replica of the original fund.

The Bottom Line

The differences between mutual funds and variable sub-accounts can be confusing, especially if the sub-account is an exact clone of its sister fund. Pay careful attention to the ticker symbols to ensure that you are getting the correct quote. If you own a variable contract of any kind, the insurance carrier will always be able to provide you with complete investment information on all of the sub-accounts within its contracts.When the stock market declines, financial advisors will usually caution investors to focus on a long-term strategy and ignore the ups and downs. But that is easier said than done, and investors who lose sleep over the market's roller-coaster ride may want to consider adding another component to their portfolio: market-neutral funds.

Market-neutral funds are designed to provide returns that are unrelated to those of the overall stock market. The addition of these funds to an investor's portfolio has the potential to boost returns and reduce risk, but the funds are much more complex than traditional mutual funds, and the expenses can be high. In this article we will discuss why they may or may not be a good fit for your portfolio.

Key Takeaways Market-neutral funds are designed to provide significant returns that are uncorrelated with a broad stock market index such as the S&P 500 Index.

A market-neutral fund will typically deliver returns by combining long and short positions in various securities.

Because of higher portfolio turnover, fees and expenses for market-neutral funds are often higher than index funds and actively managed equity funds.

Because market-neutral funds create their own proprietary investment strategies, it can be very difficult to identify the market factors that will impact their performance.

Diversification Potential

Market-neutral funds are designed to provide significant alpha but little or no beta. Beta is the correlation of an investment with a broad stock index such as the S&P 500 Index, and alpha is the additional return beyond the market return.

However, this doesn't necessarily mean that a market-neutral fund will beat the market or that an investor would be better off having a market-neutral fund in their portfolio. Consider the following situation:

An investor has a portfolio with a beta of 1.0 and an alpha of 0equivalent to a broad stock or index fund. This investor decides to move half of their funds into a market-neutral fund with a beta of 0 and a predicted alpha of 5.0. Their portfolio now has an alpha of 2.5 and a beta of 0.5, calculated by averaging the two investments.

If the index delivers high returns, the investor may regret the reallocation and wish that they had more beta in the portfolio to help capture that performance. But if the index performs poorly, then the investor may receive a significant boost from owning the market-neutral fund.

In this example the alpha is constant, but in practice, the alpha (and perhaps even the beta) of the market-neutral fund would fluctuate, due to risk in the underlying investment strategy. This variation may help or hurt the portfolio in any period, and should be considered another source of risk.

How They Work

There are many ways to generate investment returns, and every fund has some unique elements, but typically a market-neutral fund will deliver returns by combining long and short positions in various securities. The simplest and most conventional example would be a long-short stock fund, but bonds, currencies, commodities, and derivatives could be used as well.

In a long-short stock fund, an investment manager ranks a population of stocks by a combination of factors that could include both quantitative and technical factors such as value, momentum, liquidity, sentiment, and also analyst opinions. Then two portfolios are constructed: a long portfolio with the stocks that are expected to outperform the market and a short portfolio with the stocks that are expected to underperform.

The market-neutral fund would then maintain a near-identical amount of long exposure and short exposure in order to build a portfolio with near-zero market exposure. This will require some ongoing adjustments, as the values of the long and short positions will change over time due to price fluctuations.

As an example, if a fund has $1 million of both long exposure and short exposure, and if the value of the stocks in the long portfolio climbs 10% and the value of the stocks in the short portfolio falls 10%, then the fund will then have $1.1 million of long exposure and $900,000 of short exposure. With more long exposure than short exposure, the fund would now no longer be market-neutral.

To address the imbalance, the portfolio manager could either increase the short position or reduce the long position. The portfolio manager could also choose to match the long exposure and the short exposure with the amount of equity in the portfolio, so as the amount of assets under management increases or decreases, the sizes of the corresponding long and short portfolios do the same.

Transactions and Expenses

Typically, market-neutral funds will have higher management fees than either index funds or actively managed equity funds. This is likely the result of both fund complexity and supply and demandmanaging a market-neutral fund is seen as more complex than managing a passively or actively managed stock fund, and the corresponding alpha is more desirable.

An argument can be made that market-neutral funds are not designed to compete with these conventional funds at all, and are best compared to hedge funds. From that perspective, the management fees charged by a market-neutral fund would be relatively low in comparison.

All funds have transaction expenses that effectively reduce investor returns. However, the transaction costs associated with a market-neutral fund may be significantly higher than those of other funds due to rebalancing strategies and higher portfolio turnover. Many market-neutral funds have very dynamic trading strategies in which stocks are held only for months or even weeks, and portfolio turnover can be 1,000% or more.

Short positions may also incur additional expenses arising from the costs of borrowing securities or other costs of capital. For example, in order to hold the $1 million short position described above, the portfolio manager will have to maintain some type of collateral, and holding this collateral may require that the long stock position be held on margin and incur interest costs. Short stock positions would also require that the portfolio pay any dividends associated with those stocks.

These expenses can be found in the fund prospectus, but they are not always obvious. While management fees are almost always clearly stated in percentage terms, there may be fee adjustments that make it difficult to determine whether the expense level will rise or fall in the future. Other fees, such as transaction costs, may have to be determined from analyzing the fund income and expenses.

Market-neutral funds are often compared to 130/30 funds. In these funds, the portfolio manager holds a long position equal to 130% of assets and a short position equal to 30%. These funds would be expected to have a market beta, but potentially more alpha than a typical 100% long-only fund, as they provide more opportunities for a manager to exercise stock selection abilities.

Do They Deliver?

The fundamental premise underlying market-neutral funds (that it is possible to predict which stocks in a market will either outperform or underperform the market as a whole) may be difficult to digest for the die-hard index investors who believe that active selection can never beat the aggregate performance of the market. But for more than four decades, researchers have been mining the market's data to better predict performance.

Market capitalization and book-to-market ratio (also known as size and value/growth) are two well-known factors that can help identify whether a stock is likely to outperform or underperform the broader market. These factors are attributed to Eugene Fama and Ken French and are sometimes known as the Fama-French factors. A third factor, identified by Narasimhan Jegadeesh and Sheridan Titman and now widely accepted, is momentum, the tendency of stock prices to continue moving in the same direction.

As these and other factors are identified, funds can be constructed specifically to capture the market premium by holding long positions in stocks with the specific factor and short positions in other stocks that lack it. Still, each factor will have its own average return and volatility, either of which could vary at any time due to market conditions, and as a consequence, overall fund returns may be zero or negative for any period.

Because each market-neutral fund creates its own proprietary investment strategy, it can be very difficult to identify exactly which factors the fund is exposed to. This makes performance analysis, risk management and portfolio construction challenging. In the trading and hedge fund space, proprietary strategies like this are sometimes referred to as "black boxes" due to the lack of transparency.

It can also be difficult to predict how a market-neutral fund will behave in a market crash. If a fund has shown a low correlation to the index in a bull market, that doesn't necessarily mean that it won't fall during a bear market. There are times that investors will sell anything and everything in order to raise cash, regardless of fundamentals.

The Bottom Line

While market-neutral funds have the potential to provide diversified returns and improve portfolio performance, individual fund performance is largely the result of the fund's design and construction and the portfolio manager's skill. This means that it is critical for investors to carefully read prospectuses and analyze past performance in a variety of conditions in order to determine whether the fund's management, in fact, delivers on its promise.What Is a Call Report?

A call report is a regulatory report that must be filed by banks in the U.S. on a quarterly basis with the FDIC. A call report contains information about the bank's financial health, and by examining multiple call reports it can provide insight regarding the welfare of the U.S. banking system more broadly. Banks that are required to file call reports are national banks, state member banks, and non-member banks.

The call report is officially known as the "Report of Condition and Income" and can also be called the RC report.

Key Takeaways A call report is a quarterly report of the financial condition of U.S. banks, filed with the FDIC.

Officially known as the Report of Condition and Income, the bank's management must sign off and attest to the information provided in the report.

The specific reporting requirements for a bank depend upon the size of the bank, whether it has any "foreign" offices, and the capital standards applicable to the bank.

Understanding Call Reports

The call report contains items such as the bank's income statement, balance sheet, loan information, deposit information, investment information, changes in the bank's capital, asset sale information and several other sections discussing aspects of the bank's viability. Banks are required to file the call report no later than 30 days after the end of each quarter. The Federal Insurance Deposit Commission (FDIC) is tasked with overseeing compliance with call report filing requirements.

Each banks board of directors and senior management are responsible for establishing and maintaining an effective system of internal controls, including controls over the Reports of Condition and Income (the call report). Call reports are to be prepared in accordance with federal regulatory authority instructions and must be signed by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the reporting bank (or by the individual performing an equivalent function) and attested to by not less than two directors (trustees) for state nonmember banks and three directors for state member banks, national banks, and savings associations.

The management of the reporting bank may, if it wishes, also submit a brief narrative statement on the amounts reported in the call report. This optional statement will be made available to the public, along with the publicly available data in the Reports of Condition and Income, in response to any request for individual bank report data

Submitting Call Reports

Call reports are required to be submitted to the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC). The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council is an interagency entity that coordinates regulatory efforts between the Federal Reserve, the Federal Insurance Deposit Commission (FDIC) and the Office of Thrift Supervision. Banks must use the standardized forms provided by the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council to submit their data and each call report is audited by a Federal Insurance Deposit Commission analyst for errors and audit flags.

These reports are available to the public on the Federal Insurance Deposit Commission website and are a resource to people looking for information regarding the health of the U.S. banking system. Credit unions and thrift institutions are also required to file similar reports with their own regulatory agencies.For Layla Fanucci, the spiritual education her three now-grown children received from St. High Catholic School was invaluable. It formed the foundation of who they are today, said their proud mother.

In January, school principal Mary Herboth and Father Gordon Kalil sent out a letter announcing that the kindergarten through eighth-grade school would close at the end of this academic year, after 55 years in St. Helena.

In the weeks since then, parents and faculty have been scrambling to form a viable plan for the schools future to prevent its closure.

The schools annual Mardi Gras Seafood Extravaganza will be 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16, in the St. Helena Catholic School gym. It will likely sell out at 300 tickets.

Robert and Layla Fanucci moved to St. Helena in 1987 with their three children, Nicole, Michelle and David. All three attended and graduated from SHCS as eighth graders and then graduated four years later from St. Helena High School. Today, Nicole is 36 and a licensed therapist, who works and lives in San Diego; Michelle, 33, is a producer for the CBS show 48 Hours; and David is 29 and a winemaker, not only for the familys Charter Oak Winery in St. Helena, but also a winemaker and vineyard manager for many others in the Los Angeles area.

Last week, Layla Fanucci spoke about the familys experiences at St. Helena Catholic School amid a flurry of concern that the school would close in June. I would be very sorry to see the Catholic school go, Fanucci said. I know every organization goes through hard times and changes are necessary. You have to change to keep goodness and good things alive. It doesnt necessarily mean that you have to close the doors. My hope is that they would make the changes that need to be done so that more people come and understand the value of a Christian education. I hope they would reopen their doors and be stronger and mightier than ever before.

Fanucci liked the small classes at the school  when her children attended, there were 15 students per class, which meant they received a lot of attention, and the atmosphere was intimate and family-like. It was also important that there was a religion class every day, which taught her children about their spiritual side, about their souls. We do our physical side with P.E., our mathematical side with calculations, but the religion class fed a part of us that is really important, our souls, Fanucci said.

Daily, rather than weekly, religion classes are important, especially for youngsters, she adds, It became a part of who they are and opened their eyes to things they wouldnt know.

All three of her children thought their education was a great experience, their proud mother said. They came out with three different personalities and three different perspectives, for sure, but today, theyre who they are because of that foundation. Im 100 percent convinced. When they have their hard times, and everybody goes through them, their strength and their faith comes from their upbringing, she added.

Nicole, Michelle and David may have had a leg up at the St. Helena Catholic School, since their mother was a music teacher at the school for 10 years, from roughly 1988 to 1998 and the music director at the church for some 20 years. I loved teaching music there, she said, teaching singing to kindergarteners through the fifth grade. For students from the sixth through the eighth grade, she taught them how to play guitars. After a year of instruction  by the time the students hit the seventh grade  they were playing in the Sunday Mass at church. Fanucci also took her students to play at community events and for seniors at retirement homes.

I always told the class the Beatles did a lot with three chords, C, D and G, and so we could do a lot with those chords, too, Fanucci said.

Pop the cork on Napa Valley wine! Discover the hidden stories of Napa Valley wine and the people behind it -- plus expert analysis from our columnists and more with our weekly email newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.What Is a Liability?

A liability is something a person or company owes, usually a sum of money. Liabilities are settled over time through the transfer of economic benefits including money, goods, or services. Recorded on the right side of the balance sheet, liabilities include loans, accounts payable, mortgages, deferred revenues, bonds, warranties, and accrued expenses.

Key Takeaways A liability (generally speaking) is something that is owed to somebody else.

Liability can also mean a legal or regulatory risk or obligation.

In accounting, companies book liabilities in opposition to assets.

Current liabilities are a company's short-term financial obligations that are due within one year or a normal operating cycle (e.g. accounts payable).

Long-term (non-current) liabilities are obligations listed on the balance sheet not due for more than a year.

1:47 What's a Liability?

How Liabilities Work

In general, a liability is an obligation between one party and another not yet completed or paid for. In the world of accounting, a financial liability is also an obligation but is more defined by previous business transactions, events, sales, exchange of assets or services, or anything that would provide economic benefit at a later date. Current liabilities are usually considered short-term (expected to be concluded in 12 months or less) and non-current liabilities are long-term (12 months or greater).

Liabilities are categorized as current or non-current depending on their temporality. They can include a future service owed to others (short- or long-term borrowing from banks, individuals, or other entities) or a previous transaction that has created an unsettled obligation. The most common liabilities are usually the largest like accounts payable and bonds payable. Most companies will have these two line items on their balance sheet, as they are part of ongoing current and long-term operations.



Liabilities are a vital aspect of a company because they are used to finance operations and pay for large expansions. They can also make transactions between businesses more efficient. For example, in most cases, if a wine supplier sells a case of wine to a restaurant, it does not demand payment when it delivers the goods. Rather, it invoices the restaurant for the purchase to streamline the drop-off and make paying easier for the restaurant.

The outstanding money that the restaurant owes to its wine supplier is considered a liability. In contrast, the wine supplier considers the money it is owed to be an asset.

Liability may also refer to the legal liability of a business or individual. For example, many businesses take out liability insurance in case a customer or employee sues them for negligence.



Other Definitions of Liability

Generally, liability refers to the state of being responsible for something, and this term can refer to any money or service owed to another party. Tax liability, for example, can refer to the property taxes that a homeowner owes to the municipal government or the income tax he owes to the federal government. When a retailer collects sales tax from a customer, they have a sales tax liability on their books until they remit those funds to the county/city/state.

Types of Liabilities

Businesses sort their liabilities into two categories: current and long-term. Current liabilities are debts payable within one year, while long-term liabilities are debts payable over a longer period. For example, if a business takes out a mortgage payable over a 15-year period, that is a long-term liability. However, the mortgage payments that are due during the current year are considered the current portion of long-term debt and are recorded in the short-term liabilities section of the balance sheet.

Current Liabilities

Ideally, analysts want to see that a company can pay current liabilities, which are due within a year, with cash. Some examples of short-term liabilities include payroll expenses and accounts payable, which include money owed to vendors, monthly utilities, and similar expenses. Other examples include:

Wages Payable : The total amount of accrued income employees have earned but not yet received. Since most companies pay their employees every two weeks, this liability changes often.

: The total amount of accrued income employees have earned but not yet received. Since most companies pay their employees every two weeks, this liability changes often. Interest Payable : Companies, just like individuals, often use credit to purchase goods and services to finance over short time periods. This represents the interest on those short-term credit purchases to be paid.

: Companies, just like individuals, often use credit to purchase goods and services to finance over short time periods. This represents the interest on those short-term credit purchases to be paid. Dividends Payable : For companies that have issued stock to investors and pay a dividend, this represents the amount owed to shareholders after the dividend was declared. This period is around two weeks, so this liability usually pops up four times per year, until the dividend is paid.

: For companies that have issued stock to investors and pay a dividend, this represents the amount owed to shareholders after the dividend was declared. This period is around two weeks, so this liability usually pops up four times per year, until the dividend is paid. Unearned Revenues : This is a company's liability to deliver goods and/or services at a future date after being paid in advance. This amount will be reduced in the future with an offsetting entry once the product or service is delivered.

: This is a company's liability to deliver goods and/or services at a future date after being paid in advance. This amount will be reduced in the future with an offsetting entry once the product or service is delivered. Liabilities of Discontinued Operations: This is a unique liability that most people glance over but should scrutinize more closely. Companies are required to account for the financial impact of an operation, division, or entity that is currently being held for sale or has been recently sold. This also includes the financial impact of a product line that is or has recently been shut down.



Non-Current Liabilities

Considering the name, its quite obvious that any liability that is not current falls under non-current liabilities expected to be paid in 12 months or more. Referring again to the AT&T example, there are more items than your garden variety company that may list one or two items. Long-term debt, also known as bonds payable, is usually the largest liability and at the top of the list.

Companies of all sizes finance part of their ongoing long-term operations by issuing bonds that are essentially loans from each party that purchases the bonds. This line item is in constant flux as bonds are issued, mature, or called back by the issuer.

Analysts want to see that long-term liabilities can be paid with assets derived from future earnings or financing transactions. Bonds and loans are not the only long-term liabilities companies incur. Items like rent, deferred taxes, payroll, and pension obligations can also be listed under long-term liabilities. Other examples include:

Warranty Liability : Some liabilities are not as exact as AP and have to be estimated. Its the estimated amount of time and money that may be spent repairing products upon the agreement of a warranty. This is a common liability in the automotive industry, as most cars have long-term warranties that can be costly.

: Some liabilities are not as exact as AP and have to be estimated. Its the estimated amount of time and money that may be spent repairing products upon the agreement of a warranty. This is a common liability in the automotive industry, as most cars have long-term warranties that can be costly. Contingent Liability Evaluation: A contingent liability is a liability that may occur depending on the outcome of an uncertain future event.

A contingent liability is a liability that may occur depending on the outcome of an uncertain future event. Deferred Credits : This is a broad category that may be recorded as current or non-current depending on the specifics of the transactions. These credits are basically revenue collected before it being earned and recorded on the income statement. It may include customer advances, deferred revenue, or a transaction where credits are owed but not yet considered revenue. Once the revenue is no longer deferred, this item is reduced by the amount earned and becomes part of the company's revenue stream.

: This is a broad category that may be recorded as current or non-current depending on the specifics of the transactions. These credits are basically revenue collected before it being earned and recorded on the income statement. It may include customer advances, deferred revenue, or a transaction where credits are owed but not yet considered revenue. Once the revenue is no longer deferred, this item is reduced by the amount earned and becomes part of the company's revenue stream. Post-Employment Benefits : These are benefits an employee or family members may receive upon his/her retirement, which are carried as a long-term liability as it accrues. In the AT&T example, this constitutes one-half of the total non-current total second only to long-term debt. With rapidly rising health care and deferred compensation, this liability is not to be overlooked.

: These are benefits an employee or family members may receive upon his/her retirement, which are carried as a long-term liability as it accrues. In the AT&T example, this constitutes one-half of the total non-current total second only to long-term debt. With rapidly rising health care and deferred compensation, this liability is not to be overlooked. Unamortized Investment Tax Credits (UITC): This represents the net between an asset's historical cost and the amount that has already been depreciated. The unamortized portion is a liability, but it is only a rough estimate of the assets fair market value. For an analyst, this provides some details of how aggressive or conservative a company is with its depreciation methods.

Liabilities vs. Assets

Assets are the things a company ownsor things owed to the companyand they include tangible items such as buildings, machinery, and equipment as well as intangible items such as accounts receivable, interest owed, patents, or intellectual property.

If a business subtracts its liabilities from its assets, the difference is its owner's or stockholders' equity. This relationship can be expressed as follows:

Assets  Liabilities = Owners Equity \text{Assets}-\text{Liabilities}=\text{Owner's Equity} AssetsLiabilities=Owners Equity

However, in most cases, this accounting equation is commonly presented as such:

Assets = Liabilities + Equity \text{Assets} = \text{Liabilities} + \text{Equity} Assets=Liabilities+Equity

Liabilities vs. Expenses

An expense is the cost of operations that a company incurs to generate revenue. Unlike assets and liabilities, expenses are related to revenue, and both are listed on a company's income statement. In short, expenses are used to calculate net income. The equation to calculate net income is revenues minus expenses.

For example, if a company has more expenses than revenues for the past three years, it may signal weak financial stability because it has been losing money for those years.

Expenses and liabilities should not be confused with each other. One is listed on a company's balance sheet, and the other is listed on the company's income statement. Expenses are the costs of a company's operation, while liabilities are the obligations and debts a company owes. Expenses can be paid immediately with cash, or the payment could be delayed which would create a liability.

Example of Liabilities

As a practical example of understanding a firm's liabilities, let's look at a historical example using AT&T's (T) 2020 balance sheet. The current/short-term liabilities are separated from long-term/non-current liabilities on the balance sheet.





AT&T clearly defines its bank debt that is maturing in less than one year under current liabilities. For a company this size, this is often used as operating capital for day-to-day operations rather than funding larger items, which would be better suited using long-term debt.

Like most assets, liabilities are carried at cost, not market value, and under generally accepted accounting principle (GAAP) rules can be listed in order of preference as long as they are categorized. The AT&T example has a relatively high debt level under current liabilities. With smaller companies, other line items like accounts payable (AP) and various future liabilities like payroll, taxes will be higher current debt obligations.

AP typically carries the largest balances, as they encompass the day-to-day operations. AP can include services, raw materials, office supplies, or any other categories of products and services where no promissory note is issued. Since most companies do not pay for goods and services as they are acquired, AP is equivalent to a stack of bills waiting to be paid.

How Do I Know If Something Is a Liability? A liability is something that is owed to or obligated to someone else. It can be real (e.g. a bill that needs to be paid) or potential (e.g. a possible lawsuit).

How Are Current Liabilities Different From Long-Term (Noncurrent) Ones? Companies will segregate their liabilities by their time horizon for when they are due. Current liabilities are due with a year and are often paid for using current assets. Non-current liabilities are due in more than one year and most often include debt repayments and deferred payments.

How Do Liabilities Relate to Assets and Equity? The accounting equation states thatassets = liabilities + equity. As a result, we can re-arrange the formula to read liabilities = assets - equity. Thus, the value of a firm's total liabilities will equal the difference between the values of total assets and shareholders' equity. If a firm takes on more liabilities without accumulating additional assets, it must result in a reduction in the value of the firm's equity position.

What Is a Contingent Liability? A contingent liability is an obligation that might have to be paid in the future, but there are still unresolved matters that make it only a possibility and not a certainty. Lawsuits and the threat of lawsuits are the most common contingent liabilities, but unused gift cards, product warranties, and recalls also fit into this category.The Cabinet is to discuss a report which warns that Brexit could cause as much damage as the economic crash.

The study - contained in the Irish Times - says that depending on what type of Brexit emerges - the economy could shrink by as much as 7% by 2030.

Leo Varadkar's Cabinet June 2017.

It comes as research from 'Food Drink Ireland' shows that agri-food exports to the UK has fallen by 570m since the June 2016 referendum - with the loss of almost 6,000 jobs.

The group's Kevin McPartland says prepared consumer food companies, which include ready-to-eat meals and confectionery products - are particularly exposed.

He said: "Some of the brands are obvious Tayto, Kimberley, the iconic Irish brands but you also have to think about the companies that are moving things into Ireland.

"You have a lot of multi-nationals who are not manufacturing here but are bringing stuff in and for them, tariffs are very complicated if they are manufacturing North and South of the border or East and west and that happens a lot."

Earlier: Brexit could be as bad for Ireland as economic crash

Brexit could be as bad for Ireland as the economic crash.

A new expert report for the Government says the financial impact could equal the downturn of 2008 to 2009 - but last even longer.

The study by Copenhagen Economics, quoted in today's Irish Times, claims the economy could be 7% smaller in 2030 than it would have been without Brexit.

It is the latest in a line of reports and Fianna Fail's Stephen Donnelly says we need to see real action on the ground.

He said: "Fianna Fail is calling on the Government this week to stop dithering on the domestic response to Brexit.

"Fianna Fail has supported the Government's international efforts on Brexit but domestically, the Government has done next to nothing.

"We have a report which will now be seen by the cabinet showing the potentially catastrophic effects."

Donnelly also says the Government must 'stop dithering' over its response to what lies ahead.

The Cabinet will examine the independent study, which warns that a hard Brexit will cost Ireland up to 18bn.

Mr Donnelly says there is still a lot to do.

He said: "The domestic response, getting our businesses ready, our farming community, our farming community, our agri-food, tourism sectors - all of these are going to need help.

"We have seen very little from Government so far except for websites, questionnaires and meetings.

"We need to see real action on the ground now."

- Digital DeskUpdate 7.31pm: British Prime Minister Theresa May has urged Stormont's leaders to make one final push to strike a deal to salvage powersharing in Northern Ireland.

After holding talks with the Democratic Unionists and Sinn Fein in Belfast, Ms May insisted there was the basis of an agreement to end the 400-day political impasse and she expressed confidence a devolved executive would be "up and running very soon".

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also held talks with politicians at Stormont, though notably he did not have a meeting with the DUP.

Mr Varadkar said he hoped a deal could be achieved later this week.

Mrs May, who met all the main parties at Stormont House this afternoon, said the discussions were "full and frank".

"The DUP and Sinn Fein have been working hard to close the remaining gaps," she said.

British PM says there is the basis for agreement to restore NI power-sharing pic.twitter.com/1lDZcWWXbQ  RTE News (@rtenews) February 12, 2018

"Some differences remain but I think there is the basis of an agreement here and I have been urging the parties to make one final push for the people of Northern Ireland."

Mr Varadkar said the differences were "not insurmountable". He expressed hope that Stormont's smaller parties - the Ulster Unionists, SDLP and Alliance - could be part of a new coalition executive.

"It is our strong view that an inclusive executive including as many parties as possible would be more sustainable and more beneficial for Northern Ireland as a whole," he said.

Relations have been strained between the DUP and Mr Varadkar's government over the Brexit process, but Ireland's deputy premier Simon Coveney urged people not to "read too much" into the fact that the main unionist party did not meet the Taoiseach at Stormont on Monday.

Northern Ireland has been without a functioning government since January 2017 and several rounds of talks to resolve the crisis have failed.

However, speculation has been growing that a deal between Sinn Fein and the DUP is imminent.

DUP leader Arlene Foster said the tone of the meeting with Mrs May was positive. Mrs Foster said she shared public frustration that the pace of progress had been slow.

DUP leader Arlene Foster says progress made in NI talks but they'll work to look for more progress pic.twitter.com/ntmAiwm48x  RTE News (@rtenews) February 12, 2018

"We have been engaged in three weeks of intensive talks with Sinn Fein building on the talks that have been going on for some time," she said.

"We recognise the frustration that is out there but good progress has been made and we will continue to work to look for more progress."

Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald said: "We believe that we are close to an agreement which, certainly, we can put to our grassroots and to the community as a whole."

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald says nothing insurmountable left to resolve in NI talks pic.twitter.com/7ZMAjwAOto  RTE News (@rtenews) February 12, 2018

She said "we are not exactly there just yet", but added: "there is nothing insurmountable if there is the political will to reach an agreement".

The DUP/Sinn Fein-led powersharing arrangement imploded last January amid a row over a botched green energy scheme.

That rift subsequently widened to take in long-running disputes over culture, social issues and legacy.

The main sticking point preventing the restoration of an executive is the Irish language.

Sinn Fein wants a standalone piece of legislation to protect speakers - an Irish Language Act - but the DUP has long insisted it would only countenance new laws if they also incorporate other cultures, such as Ulster Scots.

There was speculation over the weekend that three pieces of legislation - an Irish Language Act, an Ulster Scots Act and a broader Culture Act - could be a means to satisfy both sides.

Earlier: Northern Executive could be 'up and running very soon', says Theresa May

Update 6.15pm: British Prime Minister Theresa May said today that "while differences remain, I think there is the basis of an agreement here" and hoped that the Northern Executive could be "up and running very soon".

She urged Northern Ireland's political leaders to make "one final push" to reach an agreement.

Ms May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, as well as the leaders of Sinn Fein and the DUP, were involved in a series of talks today.

Earlier this evening, Mr Varadkar said there was a "lot of work to do" but progress was going in the "right direction".

"We are very hopeful that those two parties are able to come to an agreement this week," he said.

Democratic Unionist leader Arlene Foster said earlier that the tone of the talks had been "very good". Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said the two parties were "close to an agreement".

Earlier: Taoiseach 'hopeful' that new powersharing deal can be agreed

Update 6pm: Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said that he is optimistic that a new powersharing deal can be reached after new talks concluded today.

"I think the soundings from both Arlene Foster and Mary Lou McDonald were positive and I'm hopeful that they can make an accommodation in the days ahead," he said.

"It doesn't necessarily require that the Prime Minister and I return for that, but in our role as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, we will, of course, support and try to facilitate any agreement they make."

When asked what he felt was different about this round of talks, Tanaiste Simon Coveney said: "I think there has been a lot of talking, and there has been, I hope, a process that has helped to rebuild relationships, and some trust,

"The DUP and Sinn Fein negotiating teams have spent a lot of time with each other, and indeed they've spent a lot of time with the two Governments as well,

"I think everybody has said for months now that they want to see devolved Government back up and running in Northern Ireland. It really is a very fundamental part of the agreement that keeps peace, so I think there is a determination to find accommodation for each other's positions, even though the positions at the outset were quite different.

He added: "We're not quite there yet, and the two parties can speak for themselves on that... but I think we are at a point now where both parties realise that if we're going to see devolved Government back up and running soon in Northern Ireland, well then parties need to make decisions. Hopefully, we can see that happening this week."

It is understood that British Prime Minister Theresa May will be speaking to the media later this evening.

Earlier: No deal yet, but 'good progress' on new powersharing deal

No agreement has been reached in efforts to broker a new powersharing deal in Northern Ireland today, despite upbeat comments from party leaders.

Speaking to the media at Stormont Parliament buildings this evening, DUP leader Arlene Foster said: "There isn't a deal yet. What there is is very good progress.

"And we're going to keep at it, and continue to work on that progress, and that's why we're here today."

Speaking shortly afterwards, new Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald confirmed that progress towards a new deal has been made.

This afternoon she met with British Prime Minister Theresa May and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar but has yet to meet with the DUP.

"We believe that we are close to an agreement which, certainly, we can put to our grassroots and to the community as a whole," she said.

"We're not exactly there just yet, but let me repeat - there is nothing insurmountable. If there is the political will to reach an agreement, we certainly have that determination and that resolve."

Ms May and Leo Varadkar are due to speak to the media shortly.

More to follow.Dr Dorman's dispatches are a reminder of our good fortune, writes Damien Enright

MY FRIEND, Dr Dorman, the much-travelled marine biologist mentioned last week, is in China and opens his latest letter in an environment very different from that of fair Ireland, and salubrious west Cork, whence he hails. His dispatches are a reminder of our good fortune.

Picture a city of grey skyscrapers stretching up into a permanently grey sky, a road of never-ending traffic, trees on either side, but no birds, and the population, every one walking with one arm outstretched, eyes fixed on the screen that controls their lives. I saw a man the other day talking to his watch. I have found myself in the middle of a science fiction film, except there is not much of a story yet.

This city is just one gigantic shopping centre; it couldnt be further from Chairman Maos ideals. I did manage to find an almost interesting place: an old canal with weird trees from which hang immense aerial roots, and little shops  a woman with a sewing machine, a few tiny restaurants, and even some old people  there doesnt appear to be anyone over thirty anywhere else. But should one fall into that canal, the results would not be pleasant.

My apartment is on the seventh floor, 20 storeys up. I pay $200 a month for a tiny room, mostly just a bedroom with a minute kitchen and bathroom, and a small balcony. Id be happy were it not for the road below - quiet when I found the place but, after dark, transforming into an open air market and all-night restaurant and bar. I sleep with ear plugs. The yaps of small but strident Chinese dogs echo through the building, and a chap seems to be building something in his bedroom.

Every meal time, the staccato hammering of choppers starts up as neighbours prepare meals and, below, we have the unremitting roar of traffic, tooting horns, ringing bicycle bells. No birds  not surprising; they couldnt communicate no insects. No stars or moon; unreal city, colonising the sky.

But then things improved - I found the library, with an English language shelf, and a small park with five different bird species, a wagtail of some sort, a magpie-robin, a very impressive shrike; the other two were a total mystery. I have no Chinese bird book. Perhaps Ill ask one of the hillbillies (my fellow teachers seem all to be prairie Americans) to order one on line.

Today, a magnificent orange beetle with black spots - Ive never seen the like - landed on my balcony, long enough for me to photograph it. Last week, I even saw Orion, once.

In January, 2006, elsewhere in China, Dr. Dorman was very put out, and no wonder. Last week he writes, I saw a brand new stall had appeared in the market, with music playing and women in colourful attire that I would guess came from the far west of China. and a large display of fur coats, gloves and the like for sale. And, hanging from the canopy, several complete skins of large wild felines.

Two were tigers, or if not, something I have never seen before that very greatly resembles a tiger. Whatever they were, they were all protected species.

Planning to challenge the stall holder, he came back, two days later, with a translator, but the stall was gone. Back to mountain, explained the translator, Get more. Return next year...

Most of Jeremys letters underline bring home lucky we are to live in Ireland. Only 21 of our rivers achieve EU water quality rating but consider his 2013 report from Phnom Penh, Cambodia: I walked beside the river, with difficulty - the pavements are rarely free from cars, motor-bikes, food stalls or rubbish - and watched water hyacinths, polystyrene lunch boxes and nappies float by on the sewage coloured river, sat at a cafe with a view of a huge traffic jam, in the company of several unpleasant-looking tourists with vests and tattoos, then took your advice and had lunch at the Foreign Correspondents Club. The same tourists seemed to be there, and over a meagre fish curry, I could now look down on the traffic jam and not breathe in as much carbon monoxide. Upon emerging, I was accosted by the one of the tough looking women who plod around all day selling steaming snails and tiny bivalves, or unidentified, motorbike exhaust fume-infused fried organisms.

Other letters recount his search for Livingstons grave by country bus and bicycle taxi in the heart of Africa, narrow escapes from riots in Kenya and No Sherry police in Saudi Arabia.

How wholesome is Ireland. He should write a book!Brian Turner secretly wrote his first collection of poetry while in Iraq with the US army. He will read this week in Cork, writes Colette Sheridan.

The battlefield of personal grief is what now concentrates poet and US army veteran, Brian Turner, who is in Cork mentoring writers as the inaugural John Montague International Poetry Fellow. He will also read from and discuss his work at the Cork International Poetry Festival this week.

Brian Turner will attend Cork International Poetry Festival this week

While Turner burst onto the literary scene with the publication of his award-winning poetry collection, Here, Bullet in 2005, written secretly while on active service in Iraq, he has turned away from the brutality of war as he deals with the death of his wife, poet Ilyse Kusnetz, who died of cancer in 2016.

Turners second collection, Phantom Noise (shortlisted for the 2010 TS Eliot Prize for Poetry) also deals with war. But he points out that in all his writing, love and loss continue to be the main themes. He is also the author of a memoir, My Life as a Foreign Country.

Aged 50, Turner did not become a poet as a result of going to war. He completed an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) course in creative writing before joining the army.

Before my first published book, there were seven other manuscripts on a wide variety of subjects. It appears that Im a war writer but when I look at myself, I see a longer arc. I have a book coming out this month called The Kiss. As editor, I asked over 40 different literary writers to write about kissing. Not the Hollywood kiss but real life ones; the difficult ones, the ambiguous ones, the beautiful ones.

Turner is also writing a fictional book about the idea of the wall in Mexico and how destructive that view is. Im not actually talking about the wall but about immigration and identity as a nation. When I look at Trump and the American people, I realise that we have to look at ourselves as a people and what Trump represents in the body politic.

"Were in a really difficult position. I really think that we have a lot of soul searching to do as a nation. Trump is almost like a canary in the coal mine signalling that the education system has broken down. People cant analytically or psychologically think through questions. The evidence is that Trump has been elected to office.

Turner didnt vote for Trump but says he understands the mindset of those that did. My family (voted for him). Ive had see-sawing debates that have come to no good end. Theres a wall between us.

Orlando-based Turner is director of the Master of Fine Arts programme at Sierra Nevada College at Lake Tahoe. He does a lot of his work remotely and also gives readings all over America.

I go to a city like New York but Ill also go out to the middle of Iowa. You can see the silos for grain and the old tractors and derelict country. Theres a lot of pain and struggle out there.

Turner, who doesnt have children, says his way of coping with his wifes death is to bury my head in work. I had been working on several projects with Ilyse. I want to figure out some way of continuing to collaborate with her.

To this end, Turner (a self-described hack musician) and jazz bassist, Benjamin Kramer, are working on an album based on one of Ilyse's poems.

Ive taken as much audio of her that I could find, from poetry readings and tapes of conversations she had while doing some journalistic work. Weve woven that into the music. Its an attempt at immortality.

Asked why he joined the army, Turner says the easy answer is that I come from a long line of military tradition in my family. I ended up writing my memoir to try and answer that question. It still doesnt fully answer it.

For Turner, being in active service was one chapter in his life. He feels deeply sorry for the Iraqi people for whom war has been a way of life for so long. I dont know how they go to the market to get lettuce.

Brian Turner will be reading from his work on Wednesday at the Cork Arts Theatre as part of the Cork International Poetry Festival.www.corkpoetryfest.netDan MacCarthy explores Coney Island, off the coast of Sligo.

THE warning is unmistakable and clear. If you find yourself stranded on the walk to Coney Island, Co Sligo, by an in-rushing tide and you have to cling for dear life to one of the pillars, make a note of its number when you call the coastguard for help.

As the area is prone to dense sea mists such information could save your life. Sligo Bay RNLI has responded to numerous calls for help over the years. Walk across the sand about two hours before low tide.

This will give you about two hours on the island. Fourteen stone pillars guide walkers and drivers to the island from the starting point about 5km west of Sligo town at Cummeen Strand near Strandhill just short of the airport.

Coney island is in the crabclaw of Rosses Point and Strandhill. It is flanked by Oyster Island to the north, Maguins Island to the south and Blackrock, with its lighthouse, to the west. In the sea channel to the north is the unusual sight of the 19th-century navigational aid known as the Metal Man whose extended arm guides seafarers

towards a safe passage.

This is one of several Coney islands in the country. There are others in Roaringwater Bay near Schull, Co Cork; the Shannon Estuary in Co Clare, in in Lough Neagh near the village of Maghery, Co Armagh. Then of course there is the Coney Island immortalised in Van Morrisons eponymous song:

On and on, over the hill and the craic is good/ Heading towards Coney Island.

However, this is not an island as it is attached to the mainland by an isthmus, sandwiched between the name-checked villages of Ardglass and Killough. This northern island is named after conyng, coney or cony which in medieval English meant rabbit. Medieval, as well as modern Irish, translates coinin as rabbit, which is the source of the name of the Co Sligo Coney Island.

It is claimed by Sligonians that the origin of the Coney Island across the water in New York was via Peter OConnor the local captain of a schooner, the Arethusa, who came from Sligo and on sailing into New York in the late 18th century espied a plot of land at the end of Long Island which reminded him of home.

This could be disputed by the English version, but either way the name of the island has entered popular culture with Van Morrisons song, and Tom Waitss Shes my Coney Island Baby.

Coney Island on Long Island, New York. Named after the Co Sligo Island by Sligo ships captain Peter OConnor in the late 18th century. Picture: Getty

Those songs might never have been written if the original name had survived Inishmulclohy - after a family of the same name who lived there. Coney Island was also the inspiration for the modern jazz composition The Barinthus Suite written by Eddie Lee and David Lyttle and which premiered at the Sligo Jazz Festival in

2013.

In 1841 the islands population peaked at 124 but this had dwindled to 64 people recorded living on the island in the 1911 census. They were Harans, Mitchells, Feeneys, McGowans, Flannerys, Wards, Cartys, Floods and McHughs. By 2006 only six people called Coney Island home. The island got electricity in 1999 preceded by a telephone line in 1975.

Nowadays, there are around 20 houses on the island some very prettily decorated with a pair of clogs over the door, or shells embedded into a wall. The blue of the freshly-painted water pump contrasts with a pot of geraniums.

There is only one family in residence year round while in the summer the population expands as several of the houses are available for rent. The islands pub, Michael J Wards, is open at weekends and is a focal point for any visitors.

A lovely old country road encircles half the island and leads you on to a beautiful crescent beach. Cartys Strand, with its windswept dunes and long draw is a great surfing site. Elsewhere on the island there is a ringfort and a standalone rock known as St Patricks wishing chair where, after you settle yourself into position, your wish may be granted!

How to get there: Walk from Cummeen Strand, Strandhill, Co Sligo. Safety is paramount. Text Coney to 53600 to get tide times from the RNLI. RNLI.org

Accommodation: Internet search for Inishmulclohy Lodge; also AirbnbDonald Trumps spats with North Koreas Kim Jong Un about the size of their nuclear buttons are reckless, while his desire to expand his nuclear arsenal is a departure from his predecessors and a contravention of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, says Jason Douglas

IN a ceremony some weeks ago, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists announced that the Doomsday Clocks minute hand had moved.

The time on the clock now reads two minutes to midnight (midnight being the symbolic hour of global catastrophe).

This is the closest the clock has moved to midnight since 1953, the height of the Cold War and the same year the Soviet Union tested its first hydrogen bomb.

Donald Trump

The move was prompted partly by climate change, but was mainly as a result of developments in the global nuclear environment. North Koreas repeated nuclear provocations; the absence of any progress on US-Russian arms control; and raised tensions in the Asia-Pacific region have all contributed to a heightened sense of danger. Recent developments will do little to dampen these fears.

Officially released on February 2, the Trump administrations Nuclear Posture Review (NPR) has sparked fierce debate.

The NPR is a Congressionally-mandated document released by every president (since Bill Clinton in 1994) and it outlines nuclear weapons policy for the next five to 10 years.

Trump looks set to pursue an entirely different, and much more dangerous, approach than previous presidents.

The trend has been a downward trajectory in US nuclear numbers since the end of the Cold War. President George HW Bush enacted an unprecedented number of nuclear reductions in the early 1990s. Post-Soviet Russia quickly followed suit.

While cuts, for various reasons, halted under Clinton, despite his best efforts, his successor, George W Bush (whose administration hardly baulked at the idea of confronting global threats), reduced the US nuclear

stockpile by about half.

It was under Obama that a conceptual change occurred. As president-elect, writing in 2008, Obama said

that he would forge a new path in US nuclear weapons policy, by working towards the elimination of nuclear weapons, going so far as to make this objective a central element of his administrations policy.

As a first step, he would work with Russia to enact reciprocal cuts. While falling far short of this idealistic goal of disarmament (which he rightly stated he was unlikely to see in his lifetime), Obamas main legacy was to reposition the idea of nuclear disarmament in the mainstream national security agenda, though as a distant, even aspirational, aim.

While the previous three NPRs sought to engender strategic stability by, effectively, downplaying the role nuclear weapons would play in US policy, Trumps NPR signals a sharp deviation.

Though tempering much of Trumps characteristic machismo and bluster, the NPR is a markedly different interpretation of the direction of US policy.

All indications suggest that Trump is seeking to modernise existing weapons, and to expand the arsenal. That would fly in the face of Americas historic commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

This would also create renewed tensions with strategic competitors (ie, Russia and China).

To be fair to Trump, the modernisation programme was ushered in by Obama, as many components of the US nuclear enterprise have, or soon will, reach the end of their service lives.

That said, his approach has raised alarms bells, both at home and further afield.

This new departure should come as no surprise. As president-elect, even before he darkened the doorway of the Oval Office, Trump called for a greatly increased nuclear arsenal, while, apparently, welcoming the suggestion that this would, undoubtedly, spark a renewed arms race.

Amid nuclear sabre-rattling by North Korea, Trump announced that if Pyongyang ever launched an attack on the US (or, presumably, its allies), it would be met with a storm of fire and fury, later boasting that his nuclear button was much bigger than Kim Jong Uns.

An intercontinental ballistic missile launched by North Korea. Picture: KRT via AP

Irrespective of the comparative size of Trumps nuclear button, such crass appeals to masculinity are dangerous in the world of nuclear politics. Veiled (as well as not-so-veiled) threats lead to feelings of insecurity in others, who then take countermeasures to defend themselves.

This, in turn, breeds mistrust and, ultimately, sows the seeds of conflict.

In typical Trump style, his nuclear utterances, mostly communicated through Twitter, have been consistently belligerent and unpredictable.

In a sphere inhabited by diplomats and skilled negotiators (masters in the art of carefully-judged nuance), impulsively tweeting bravado-fuelled nuclear threats simply isnt done. In any case, many important State Department positions remain vacant, because nuclear diplomacy has been all but ignored by Trump.

According to a Pentagon spokesperson, Trumps NPR calls for a credible nuclear deterrent, with diverse capabilities.

The word diverse is subtle, a euphemism alluding to the fact that the president has called for the development of smaller tactical nuclear weapons with lower explosive power.

The thinking behind tactical nuclear weapons is that the current crop is too big and powerful to use as a deterrent, simply because no statesman would regard a threat to use them (for deterrence purposes) as credible.

This, in fact, is a misnomer, since some tactical nuclear weapons possess roughly the same explosive power as the bomb detonated above Nagasaki, which killed 70,000 people.

Conventionalising nuclear weapons by making them smaller effectively lowers the threshold for their use and may make a nuclear exchange more likely.

The pursuit of these weapons would also represent a violation of the 1987 Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces treaty (INF), which outlawed an entire category of nuclear missiles between the Cold War superpowers.

While Trump supporters will laud this expansion as part of a wider attempt to make America great again, the main issue is, as most sober analysts have argued, that the threat simply doesnt exist to warrant it. Moreover, he has 4,000 nuclear weapons at his disposal already, and this should be sufficient to handle a multitude of contingencies.

The US nuclear arsenal, for example, far exceeds that of China, in both quality and quantity. It remains roughly on a numerical par with that of Russia, due to the New START arms control agreement, concluded under Obama.

In addition to this, the belief that

Beijing and Moscow are placing nuclear weapons centre stage, as part of their respective defence strategies, is understandable, but mistaken.

To counter this possibility, however, as the review makes clear, the Trump administration wants to widen the range of scenarios under which US nuclear weapons might conceivably be used, such as in response to a cyber-attack or a non-nuclear strategic attack. At the very least, the review indicates that the US will be placing a greater reliance on nuclear weapons in the years ahead.

Not only does the NPR appear to call for an expansion of the US nuclear force, it also actively militates against efforts to reduce nuclear weapons globally. Arms control between the US and Russia is given a derisory mention.

It dismisses the Comprehensive Test Ban treaty (signed by Clinton in 1996, but rejected by the US Senate in 1999). As well as this, Trump has repeatedly criticised the Iran deal, a multilateral agreement concluded between the United Nations P5 and Germany (P5+1) and Iran, designed to curtail Irans nuclear ambitions, in return for a relaxation of some economic sanctions.

These all have near-universal backing throughout the international community, as a way forward for defusing nuclear tensions, but Trumps dismissive attitude is a worrying sign.

Jon Wolfsthal, a Harvard academic and former Obama administration official, has stated that the Nuclear Posture Review clearly bears no resemblance to Trumps actual outlook; rather, he argued, it is a reflection of more moderate voices within his cabinet (namely secretary of defence, Jim Mattis, and secretary of state, Rex Tillerson), whom Wolfsthal calls the axis of adults.

The chances of a nuclear exchange are relatively slim. But thats not to say that it wont, or cant, happen. Excessive complacency in the infallibility of nuclear deterrence is misguided, especially with the chatter of loose talk in the background.

As a 71-year-old man, Trump, who would have been an adolescent at the tense zenith of the Cold War standoff, is old enough to remember the Soviet atomic threat, poised to strike the United States at any moment, as well as the now laughable ways in which a vulnerable populace sought to ride out a nuclear attack.

As his policy appears to be moving the United States, and the world, closer to the nuclear precipice, lets hope the axis of adults continues to prevail.

Jason Douglas is currently pursuing a PhD in US nuclear strategy in UCCOne person has died and 22 others were hurt after two passenger trains collided in central Austria.

One train struck the side of the other near the station in Niklasdorf, a town 40 miles north of Graz, police spokesman Leo Josefus said.Survivors waited over eight hours to be rescued from a helicopter crash in the Grand Canyon which killed a young receptionist and two brothers.

Becky Dobson, 27 and English brothers Jason Hill, 32, and Stuart Hill, 30, died in the incident at 5.20pm local time on Saturday.

Ellie Milward, 29, Jonathan Udall, 32, and Jennifer Barham, 39, were airlifted to University Medical Centre in Las Vegas, Nevada, along with pilot Scott Booth, 42, according to Arizona Central.

Dramatic images of the crash site show the wreckage lying at the bottom of a canyon, engulfed in flames.

One picture appears to show a female survivor, wearing jeans and a white top, fleeing the scene as the fire rages behind her.

Three people were killed in the crash of a tour helicopter in the Grand Canyon. Teddy Fujimoto captured video shortly after the helicopter went down.

Details here: https://t.co/GwtNMjdFMv pic.twitter.com/wWaesSRdO5  WOWT 6 News (@WOWT6News) February 11, 2018

Local media reports claim it took rescuers more than eight hours to get to the survivors and they were not airlifted from the scene until around 2am on Sunday.

Jonathan Udall from Southampton is currently being treated in hospital.

Lionel Douglass had been attending a wedding on a bluff about 1,000 yards away from where the helicopter burst into flames.

He told ABC News: "I had taken my phone and I was zooming in to see if I could see anybody and a lady walked out of the flames and I just lost it."

He said he saw the helicopter fall and hit the bottom with the "biggest explosion you ever heard and then flames like you never seen before".

Rescuers continue to work to reach survivors of horrific Grand Canyon helicopter crash https://t.co/plWFC9kpgk pic.twitter.com/U0Yj1o6Xp7  Daily Mail US (@DailyMail) February 11, 2018

A series of smaller blasts followed, according to reports.

Hualapai Police chief Francis Bradley said: "It's a very tragic incident.

"Yesterday, we were hampered by severe weather conditions, we had gusts up to 50mph.

"The terrain where the crash occurred ... is extremely rugged."

He told ABC News the tour originated in Boulder City, Nevada, and that a storm was rolling into the area at the time of the crash.

Mr Bradley described the weather conditions as "not normal", but said no flight restrictions were in place.

He told News3LV that darkness and an initial lack of air support hampered the rescue effort.

The three victims who lost their lives in the crash included two brothers, Jason and Stuart Hill.

Stuart Hill, who has been named as one of the victims of the Grand Canyon helicopter crash.

Jason Hill was a corporate solicitor in Milton Keynes for firm Shoosmiths.

Ms Dobson had worked as a receptionist at Vets4Pets in Worthing, Surrey. On the company's website she wrote: "I love my job and I am hoping to one day fulfil my dream of becoming a Veterinary Nurse!"

The helicopter tour was run by Papillon. The company's website states: "With more than 50 years flying the Grand Canyon and beyond, Papillon is the largest and most experienced helicopter tour operator in the world. "

It further says: "At Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, safety is our top priority."

In a statement reported by local news, Papillon Group chief executive Brenda Halvorson said: "It is with extreme sadness we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families involved in this accident.

"Our top priority is the care and needs of our passengers and our staff."

Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Allen Kenitzer said the Eurocopter EC130 crashed in unknown circumstances and sustained heavy damage.

An investigation will take place.

A British Foreign Office spokeswoman said: "We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on February 10, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services."As of this week, We dont have any other areas under consideration, for such outsourcing, she added.

The latest outsourcing was announced on Jan. 4 and implemented over about a two-week period, Kinney said.

Adventist Health and Cerner have a longstanding strategic alignment and shared goal to further improve the quality of care and the patient experience using technology and more coordinated services, said a news release.

This expanded partnership helps to create a seamless experience in a patients entire health journey, and positions us to innovate quickly and at scale so that our mission can continue to grow and benefit our communities, said Scott Reiner, Adventist Healths chief executive officer.

Kinney said the change was well received. Weve been working with Cerner for years, she noted. The company was already providing the platform used for the technology behind the electronic medical records system used by St. Helena Hospital.

We are committed to working together to help Adventist Health advance its care transformation journey, said Jeff Townsend, executive vice president and chief of staff for Cerner.For Dublin-based start up GirlCrew, the focus this week isnt on Valentines Day but on Galentines Day, a relatively new event which celebrates female friendships.

Female friendship is the raison detre of the start-up, the first company in Ireland to create an online platform which allows women to find other women with whom to socialise.

Three years after being set up, its gone international and has over 100,000 members across 46 cities and is planning a launch in the US next month.

In countries such as the UK, Australia, and particularly the US, GirlCrew is going up against some stiff competition, but, according to co-founder Pamela Newenham, it does something that its rivals cant: Allow its members to organise spontaneous events.

This is our unique selling point  they can arrange a meet up at a pub, a cinema, or on occasions like Galantines Day, she said.

Galentines Day, which takes place on February 13, began 10 years ago as a joke on a US sitcom and has now become a real event.

Similarly, GirlCrew was created for fun, but has now become a real business, which, according to Ms Newenham, is about to gain global traction.

It all started one night in March 2014 when GirlCrew co-founder Elva Carri wanted to go dancing but none of her friends were available to go with her.

Reckoning that there had to be other women out there in the same situation, she got creative with Tinder and set up a male profile to send out a message that she was a woman looking for other women to go on a night out.

She thought she might get one or two replies but got over 100, said Ms Newenham, explaining that it worked so well that Ms Carri created a secret group on Facebook who called themselves the TinderCrew.

Although it started as fun, Ms Carri, Ms Newenham, and the third GirlCrew co-founder, Aine Mulloy, quickly realised this had potential as a business.

Continuing their day jobs, they set up GirlCrew and worked in their spare time on swelling the numbers. We had 10,000 members in June 2015 and in December over 20,000 in 43 cities, said Ms Newenham.

The company earned some revenue from advertising and events, and the founders  a magazine editor, a journalist, and a marketing professional  decided to get involved full time and take the next logical step: Create a GirlCrew app.

Although they invested their early revenues in getting one developed, this didnt work out. It was a learning experience. After that, we decided to get a technical adviser on the board who could help us hire developers to create the app, said Ms Newenham.

Although the company didnt launch an app as planned in 2016, it did get a major profile boost when Facebook, as part of its 12th birthday celebration, filmed a video about it and invited the founders to meet Mark Zuckerberg.

Later in the year, GirlCrew began fundraising in order to hire developers and scale up for global expansion. They found an investor and, the following year, secured an additional 250,000 in High Potential Start-Up funding from Enterprise Ireland.

The funding was used to set up operations at the Guinness Enterprise Centre in Dublin and hire two software developers to create the GirlCrew app, which was launched in Cork last summer.

Since then, the company has taken on an additional developer, bringing the full-time staff size to six.

Ms Newenham said the app already has 21,000 users, mainly in Ireland and that the next step is to move into the US.

We would like to get 100,000 users on the app by the end of the year and in 2019, we would like to scale up to one million, she said.

Next month, GirlCrew will launch its app in the US at the South by Southwest media event in Austin, Texas.

We already have thousands of women in the US on waiting lists for the app, said Ms Newenham, adding that a launch will also take place in Los Angeles next month.Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has said the country will be best-served with Higgins remaining in power.

Mr Flanagan issued the support for Higgins to run again after new Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said a presidential election should take place this autumn, due to the seriousness of the role.

In recent months, President Higgins has come under increasing pressure to clarify whether he will adhere to his initial plan to only remain in power for one term or would seek re-election in November.

Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has indicated that his party will run a candidate if no decision is made soon, with senator Mark Daly expressing an interest, while Independent senator Ger Croughwell has also said he intends to run.

Fine Gael MEPs Sean Kelly and Mairead McGuinness have also indicated an interest in running this autumn.

However, speaking to the Irish Examiner, Mr Flanagan said despite the interest from other politicians, he personally believes President Higgins should remain in office.

Im happy to call for Michael D Higgins to continue. He is an excellent ambassador for Ireland, our culture, our people, our place in the world, he said.

As head of state, he is an inspiration to our young people, in particular. The matter has not been discussed by Fine Gael, but when it is, Ill be calling for support for President Higgins.

Mr Flanagan added that he is only expressing his personal view.

However, Ms McDonald, said she was in favour of a presidential election race.

Asked if she was in favour of Sinn Fein running a candidate in any potential upcoming election, she said: My instinct is that the position of first citizen, Uachtaran na hEireann, should be contested and should be ratified by popular vote every seven years. Given the primacy of the position as first among equals, my instinct would always be to say there should be an open debate.Two years to the day since the sod-turning ceremony, and amid ongoing concerns about chronic delays and soaring costs, the Irish Examiner has learned that a deal has been agreed, in principle, to bridge the funding gap. The breakthrough will see:

Tanaiste Simon Coveney, who has always strongly rejected suggestions that the sod-turning  just days before the 2016 general election  was a political stunt, welcomed the development.

It has been a frustrating and difficult process, he said. But if we didnt have that sod-turning, we wouldnt have had the commitment from all sides that was needed to see this through. I promised, last month, that we would find a new approach to get this project over the line. I am very confident, now, that we can provide the certainty thats needed.

In their first public statement on the issue in almost 10 months, BAM and Live Nation told the Irish Examiner that they both remain fully committed to delivering the venue.

BAM boss Theo Cullinane said he has been engaged in a series of meetings, in recent weeks with Mr Coveney, Live Nation, and Cork City Council, and that significant progress has been made.

Both BAM and Live Nation have worked together to increase the available funding and reduce costs, he said. These initiatives, together with the necessary public funding, make it very likely that the project can now proceed.

He said all the partners would require formal approval for their funding streams, and the approvals should be in place before the end of this month.

He said a new planning approval would be required for the enlarged venue, and that detailed design, to construction levels of detail, was still required. However, he said he was confident that construction would start in the third quarter of the year.

Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said he was looking forward to a successful conclusion to the saga, soon.

Anything less than a positive solution, and agreement reached, would be a major disappointment, he said.

All are agreed that the delays have been extremely frustrating, but it is, however, essential that we develop a sustainable and commercially viable events centre and, in that regard, the ongoing commitment of government, Cork City Council, BAM, and Live Nation, to make it happen, should be recognised.

Once operational, the events centre will bring hugely significant economic and cultural benefits to everyone living in, working in, or visiting Cork.

Lord Mayor Tony Fitzgerald said last night that he is optimistic that energies in the negotiations would result in a successful outcome that would benefit the city and the region in the long term.

I am aware of ongoing proactive discussions between the government, Live Nation, BAM contractors, and Cork City Council and I await the outcome.

However, I have discussed and stressed to Minister Coveney that there is an urgent need for these discussions to continue and have a positive momentum.

However, Independent city councillor, Mick Finn, said that while the news was welcome, public patience in the entire process has almost run out.

Its time for BAM and Live Nation to either deliver or wave the white flag, he said.Dozens of farms are in lockdown and 360 cattle have been removed from slaughter, in an area between Kells and Caherdaniel, on the Iveragh peninsula.

Deer and badgers are suspected. At a recent Kerry County Council meeting in Killorglin, questions about the role of deer in the outbreak were raised and emergency motions demanded a department response.

The department confirmed that evidence to date supports the view that badgers have contributed to the spread of the TB.

Badger-capturing is now taking place to reduce the badger density in this area, which has not experienced this type of outbreak in recent times.

Badger clans, not subject to a previous capture, were being targeted.

Where badgers are identified as a possible source, a survey is carried out and badgers captured and removed.

The department said: There is no evidence of any deer involvement in this outbreak, at this time. A further contributory factor in the area is the number of (cattle) herd fragments which aid the spread of the disease.

The department acknowledges the concerns, and fully understands the stress associated with disease events on farms.

It continues to work with farmers, and veterinary practitioners, in bringing this outbreak under control.

However, farmers, and some public representatives, are suspicious of deers, with numbers increasing, due to forestry investment.

The chairman of Kerry IFA, Pat ODriscoll, said the problem will not be solved just by testing and removing cattle from the peninsula. He said all contributing sources must be identified.

The IFA, he said, had met with National Parks and Wildlife officials and received assurances that farmers would be provided with the relevant licences to address the problems associated with deer.

Kerry IFA animal health chairman, Kenneth OConnell, said the IFA was pursuing, through the National Deer Management Forum, the establishment of a national management programme throughout the country, and in particular where deer are associated with TB outbreaks.

The IFA is also seeking changes to both the live-valuation scheme, and the consequential loss schemes, to offset the financial impact of TB breakdowns for farmers, he said.

Meanwhile, the Irish Wild Deer Associations Damian Hannigan, a member of the national forum, said while deer, like any other animal, could contract TB, there were different strains.

There is no evidence to show there is a link between the spread of TB to cattle and deer, he said.

TB diseases on farms is devastating. But to suggest deer are, in any shape or form, responsible, is to muddy the waters, he said.

He noted that deer numbers existed only in small pockets around Caherciveen, and while South Kerry, generally, had undergone a lot of clear-felling of forestry, the activities might have disturbed badger sets.Increasing pressure on the British government before the two leaders meet in Belfast today to discuss the separate Stormont stalemate, Mr Varadkar yesterday backed EU chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barniers tough stance by saying clarity and urgency were needed on Brexit now.

I wouldnt say [the coming weeks are] the last chance, but time is running out, Mr Varadkar told RTE Radios This Week programme. It is 20 months since the referendum, 20 years since some of them started campaigning, and we still dont know what Brexit means. We need clarity and urgency from them.

The Government is about to publish a detailed independent report on the economic impact of a hard Brexit on Ireland. A no-deal situation may wipe 18bn off the Irish economy and cost 20,000 jobs by 2030.

The report, drawn up by the Copenhagen Economists group, for the Department of Business and Employment, will be discussed by a cabinet sub-committee this evening, before being signed-off on by cabinet tomorrow.

Leaked findings from the report, seen by the Irish Examiner, show that in the event of a hard Brexit, the Irish economy stands to lose 18bn and 20,000 jobs.

That is double the amount of jobs lost in a soft Brexit scenario, with the agriculture, tourism, retail, and pharmaceutical sectors worst affected.

While the Government is putting in place special Brexit protection funds to help businesses at risk, opposition parties, last night, criticised the plans, with Fianna Fail defence spokeswoman Lisa Chambers telling RTE the Government is sleep-walking into a crisis.

Meanwhile, British international development secretary Penny Mordaunt has said Ms May will put some meat on the bones of her Brexit plan in a series of speeches over the next three weeks. What the public want is they want the vision and they want some meat on the bones, she told BBC1s The Andrew Marr show.

The latest Brexit developments emerged as it was confirmed, last night, that Mr Varadkar and Ms May will meet in Belfast, later today, amid ongoing talks on how to resolve the Sinn Fein-DUP Stormont stalemate.

It is believed both parties are close to an agreement. Obstacles, including the Irish Language Act and the closeness of any deal to Gerry Adams departure as Sinn Fein leader, are understood to have delayed the process.

Mr Varadkar and Ms May are expected to urge a breakthrough on the issue, during meetings today, when they will privately discuss the ongoing Brexit negotiations.Emails between the national forecasting service and the Met Office, its equivalent in the UK, reveal differences over how the yearly list of serious weather events is decided.

The correspondence, released under Freedom of Information, shows Irish meteorologists took issue with a British suggestion that a storm be called Patrick.

The name Patrick is a bit cliche-Irish [and also of course closely associated with a specific date, March 17th] so suggest Peter or Paul instead here? wrote Gerald Fleming, who stood down as the countrys chief forecaster just weeks ago.

Last August, the Met Office contacted Mr Fleming, then head of forecasting at Met Eireann, with a suggested list of names for the latest storm season.

It filtered out sensitive/inappropriate names and pointed out we probably need to add a Welsh name.

Mr Fleming suggested Dylan, but went on: Or is it too familiar [Bob Dylan] or too hackneyed [Dylan Thomas]. Another possibility is Rhiannon [and we are probably unlikely to get to R].

Could I also suggest a bit more Irish flavour

The forecaster, known as the Winking Wweatherman for his trademark sign off during decades of TV reports, asked for Daniel to be changed to Donal, Finn to Fionn, and Miranda to Maeve.

Furthermore, he said Nathan should be changed to Niall.

We have a big C&W star in Ireland called Nathan Carter, so probably best to avoid this, he wrote.

Mr Fleming added: Certain sections of our media seem unnaturally interested in how many names we got as opposed to how many they got in!

I never encourage that line of thinking and just say that the list is agreed between us  which is no more than the truth!

An internal Met Eireann note described names suggested by Irish weather watchers as very eclectic.

I think we can safely reject Tayto, Tweedledum, Tweedledee, Voldemort, and a few others! he said.

Godot would be interesting. How long would we have to wait?Just two members of the Defence Forces faced a Court-Martial trial last year, while five others appealed earlier courts martial decisions handed down in their cases.

A sergeant faced a general court martial last April on four charges, including committing assault and being unfit to be entrusted with his duties.

However, he was found not guilty on all charges bar one, committing conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline, contrary to section 168 of the Defence Act 1954, for which he received a severe reprimand and a fine of three days pay.

A private faced seven separate charges at a summary court-martial, including the negligent driving of a service vehicle and driving under the influence of an intoxicant.

Ultimately, he was found guilty of a charge of conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline contrary to section 168 of the Defence Act 1954, and was fined three days pay, with nolle prosequi entered regarding the other charges.

Five members of the Defence Forces appealed earlier summary court martial decisions, including a flight quartermaster sergeant, who appealed against a finding of insubordination towards a superior officer.

The appeal was not allowed, although the original punishment was replaced by a reprimand.

A corporal had a determination and punishment handed down for disobeying a lawful command quashed on appeal, while another corporal also had an appeal allowed against an earlier finding of indiscipline.

Another corporal was unsuccessful in his appeal against four charges including ill-discipline and insubordination, although the initial punishment of a severe reprimand was substituted with a reprimand.

A private was successful in his appeal against an earlier finding against him of disobeying a lawful command, with both the initial determination and punishment quashed.

All hearings took place at the Military Justice Centre at the McKee Barracks in Dublin.Taoiseach Leo Varadkar yesterday confirmed the long-awaited motorway will be included in the national framework plan when it is published on Friday, despite report expert Edgar Morgenroth saying it makes no economic sense to do so.

ESRI researcher Mr Morgenroth  whose work has formed the basis of the Governments national framework plan on how to help spread economic growth over the next two decades  said that while projects such as the Cork-Limerick motorway are wanted, they carry serious drawbacks.

Saying the motorway is exactly the wrong thing to develop because it will risk increasing population sprawl and undermine the wider national investment plan, he said it and other projects are parish pump politics that are totally counter-productive.

Einstein once said stupidity is doing the same thing again and again and expecting a different outcome and thats exactly where we are, said Mr Morgenroth.

However, despite the criticism, the Taoiseach insisted that the Cork-Limerick motorway will still go ahead.

We are going to link Cork and Limerick, he said. We think that makes sense. Galway and Limerick are already linked together and, for the first time, all motorways do not lead to Dublin. Connecting Limerick to Cork will enable them to grow faster than Dublin in the years ahead.

Think of the towns around the way that will benefit.

He added that the national framework plan is not designed to give something for everyone but is about making real decisions.

The 850m Cork to Limerick motorway has been repeatedly called for by west coast politicians due to the benefits it will bring to cities outside of Ireland.

It will be included in this weeks 115bn national framework plan report, which has undergone a number of changes since backbench TD concerns were raised over an initial draft last year.

While the changes are expected to see investment in all areas of the country, former finance department secretary general John Moran raised concerns over altering initial plans yesterday, saying: If somebody has spent a year and a half coming up with a single plan and figuring out how you would get that to operate, and when you suddenly, in the last week or two, start adding in new things without proper consideration, thats incredibly worrying.Union officials said they have no issue with members holding a meeting at Liberty Hall in Dublin today to discuss plans to canvass, leaflet, fundraise and take part in social media campaigns in support of Mr OConnor.

In an email sent to Siptu members two weeks ago, union member Brendan Carr said he wants to support Mr OConnor in his bid to win a Dail seat for Labour in the Wicklow constituency.

In a message titled Friends of Jack OConnor, Mr Carr wrote that Mr OConnor has been a long-time president of Siptu and that, as such, he wanted to organise support for his candidacy among union members.

As you may be aware, Jack OConnor has decided to contest a seat in the Wicklow constituency in the next general election, the email read. Irrespective of political affiliations, a number of colleagues have expressed a desire to assist him during his campaign.

Assistance can take many forms, for example, canvassing, leafleting, fundraising, activity on social media, administrative work, etc, are all vital to a successful campaign.

In this regard, a number of us have arranged to meet with Jack on Monday, February 12, in Liberty Hall, to establish how we, the staff of Siptu, can assist our colleague.

We, therefore, would like to invite you to attend this meeting and discuss with Jack how we can best-assist him in his campaign.

While the message to union members made it clear that the support is being sought simply because Mr OConnor is a former Siptu president, and is irrespective of political affiliations, union members who are involved in other parties contacted the Irish Examiner to say they are unhappy with the plan.

However, a number of Siptu officials said there is no issue with the meeting taking place at Liberty Hall today, as the location is used by a number of different groups, for various reasons, and there is no suggestion Siptu is formally supporting Mr OConnors Dail bid.

Mr OConnor confirmed plans to run for Labour, in the Wicklow constituency, in the next general election, late last year, and said that he was asked to run and would contest the race on issues such as health, housing, and education.A list of fundraising ideas, from coffee mornings to car washes and 5K walks is being put together by the fundraising committee of the community-based emergency response charity.

All thats needed is an army of volunteers to put the ideas into action, says Kate Crowley of the fundraising committee.

The kits, which contain defibrillators and other life-saving equipment, cost 6,000 each and have already been distributed to a new network of volunteer personnel from across the emergency services, who have committed to support the work of the West Cork Rapid Response service.

In all, about 12 emergency personnel including paramedics and advanced paramedics, living in areas such as Drimoleague, Clonakilty, Timoleague, Belgooly, Ardfield, Reenascreena, Bandon, Coppeen, Skibbereen and Bantry, are now volunteering with the renowned community emergency response service which is headed up by medical director Dr Jason van der Velde.

Each WCRR volunteer member has signed up to respond, when available, to accidents within 10 kilometres of their own home.

The charity hopes that communities across West Cork  particularly in each of the areas where the paramedics are based  will swing into action to raise funds to pay for the kits.

It is very important that people get together to support these emergency support personnel who are making such an extraordinary commitment to WCRR to safeguard their local communities, said Ms Crowley.

She said WCRR was now issuing a region-wide SOS for fund-raising volunteers to throw their support behind the drive to raise enough money to pay for the kits.

The new volunteer support system has been described as a logical expansion of the service already provided by West Cork Rapid Response.

The service enables professionals who are free and who are able to do so, to respond to a critical incident in the vicinity of their homes.

By providing them with the equipment they would normally have available to them in the course of their work, WCRR is enabling this work to be carried out.

The service has its own special response vehicle and works in partnership with the HSEs National Ambulance Service in the region, parts of which are more than 190km from Cork City.

Anyone who wishes to contact WCRR with a fund-raising proposal can conact katecrowley224@gmail.com or phone Betty on 087 2414787.Heres proof that the Democrats are HELPING Russia undermine our political system and national security just to get Trump

Ive not been a big fan of The New York Times coverage of President Donald J. Trump because I feel like the paper has gone out of its way to portray him in as negative a light as possible, even to the extent of publishing no small amount of fake news regarding the president and his administration.

But on Saturday the Times published one of the most balanced reports involving the president and the subject of Russian espionage that Ive seen in quite some time. And in doing so, the paper made it clear that the Democrats never-ending narrative that Trump colluded with Russia to steal the election from Hillary Clinton is not only undermining his presidency putting our national security at risk.

The Times reported that U.S. intelligence agents spent several months last year cultivating a Russian source who claimed he had in his possession stolen cyberweapons developed by the National Security Agency for use in penetrating Russian, Chinese, Iranian, North Korean and other countries strategic computer systems. Following a 15-month investigation, NSA officials said they believe that Russia was behind the theft.

After some months, U.S. spies were essentially bilked out of $100,000 by the shadowy Russian figure who not only promised the stolen NSA cyber weapons but alsocompromising material on President Trump, according to American and European intelligence officials. (Related: Russian operative CASHED IN with US spy agencies; $100K payday after promises to deliver cyberweapons and TRUMP DIRT.)

At this point, I was tempted to stop reading the story because I thought, Here we go again; the same trumped up Russian collusion charges but with a new twist. But I was in for a surprise.

The Times noted that the Russian figure was paid his first $100,000 stipend in a Berlin hotel room in September 2017; I say first because the deal was worth $1 million, provided he actually possessed and then turned over the cyber weapons.

The paper also noted this very early in the story:

Several American intelligence officials said they made clear that they did not want the Trump material from the Russian, who was suspected of having murky ties to Russian intelligence and to Eastern European cybercriminals. He claimed the information would link the president and his associates to Russia. Instead of providing the hacking tools, the Russian produced unverified and possibly fabricated information involving Mr. Trump and others, including bank records, emails and purported Russian intelligence data.

Fair enough. But then, in the very next paragraph, the Times reported:

The United States intelligence officials said they cut off the deal because they were wary of being entangled in a Russian operation to create discord inside the American government. They were also fearful of political fallout in Washington if they were seen to be buying scurrilous information on the president.

Theres more. Later in the story the Times detailed some of the alleged evidence the Russian operative said he had, noting each time that a) U.S. intelligence officials did not believe it to be valid; and b) that they were highly suspicious of the evidence in the first place, based in no small part on the fact that nothing could be verified and they were more interested by far in retrieving the stolen cyber weapons.

But heres where it gets interesting. The Times then reported:

American intelligence agencies believe that Russias spy services see the deep political divisions in the United States as a fresh opportunity to inflame partisan tensions. Russian hackers are targeting American voting databases ahead of the midterm election this year, they said, and using bot armies to promote partisan causes on social media. The Russians are also particularly eager to cast doubt on the federal and congressional investigations into the Russian meddling, American intelligence officials said.

Part of that effort, the officials said, appears to be trying to spread information that hews closely to unsubstantiated reports about Mr. Trumps dealings in Russia.

In other words, Russian intelligence agencies are using the Democrats false collusion narrative to further inflame partisan tensions that lead to a distrust of our political system and institutions, which resolutely is a threat to social stability and, as a result, our national security.

Democrats are doing this, not Republicans. And the Russians are using the Democrats fake narrative to weaken our social and political trust.

Thats why Robert Muellers collusion investigation has to end, and why the various congressional committees investigating the same thing must publicly announce theyve completed their probes and no such collusion evidence has been found (because it never existed).

J.D. Heyes is editor of The National Sentinel and a senior writer for Natural News and News Target.

Sources include:

NYTimes.com

NewsTarget.comBurma Women Journalists Say Access to Information More Challenging Under NLD

Women journalists share their experiences at the second annual Women In News South East Asia summit in Yangon on Feb. 8. / Nyein Nyein / The Irrawaddy

YANGON  Access to information has become far more challenging under the National League for Democracy (NLD)-led government, Myanmar women journalists told their Asian colleagues at the Women in News Southeast Asia summit in Yangon last Thursday. The discussion focused on ways of reshaping the media landscape.

Myanmar women journalists shared their experiences of reporting on politics under the NLD, discussed coverage of womens issues, and offered safety tips and advice on responding to harassment.

Being a political journalist in this country is challenging, as we live in very sensitive and confrontational times, said Ma Ei Ei Toe Lwin, a political reporter and chief of staff of the bilingual newspaper Myanmar Times. In Myanmar, women make up just 23% of political reporters, according to a study, Gender in Myanmar News, published in November 2017 by the Myanmar Women Journalist Society (MWJS) and Fojo Media Institute.

As a speaker at the panel, she highlighted the overall challenges that media practitioners face under the civilian government, noting that news media do not yet have full rights to information or to freely conduct investigative reporting.

Over the past two years, only a handful of NLD lawmakers have been willing to speak freely to the media. Initially, the party restricted parliamentarians ability to talk to journalists.

Myanmar media face invisible lines that pose barriers to press freedom as a whole, but little has been said about harassment of women journalists, either by their sources or in the newsroom, and other safety issues. Women journalists tend to simply bear these burdens and are unlikely to speak out against harassment or teasing (for being young women reporters), due to both cultural norms and lack of confidence.

Myanmar women are used to facing structural barriers, and the majority of women journalists tend not to raise their voices to seek greater roles at the editorial and management levels. Women journalists tend to leave the industry after they marry or have a child.

But the landscape is slowly changing.

I would urge my fellow women, including journalists, to push ourselves to sit at the table, in order to express our perspectives and show our ability, because we can do better, said Seng Mai, the chief editor of the Myitkyina News journal in Kachin State. She shared her own experiences of being hesitant to make decisions on some issues, while allowing her seniors to lead on decision-making.

I used to think that my CEOs decision on a particular issue would be better than mine, due to the fact that the male senior, being the elder, was regarded as the appropriate decision-maker, she said. It is an obstacle for our own development, so we have to change ourselves.

The journalists also acknowledged the importance of male support and family understanding to the empowerment of women journalists. They urged male journalists to be supportive and champion a change in the mindset in order to have gender equality in the newsroom.

The second annual summit organized by the World Association of Newspaper and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA) with support of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs covered key challenges and opportunities to increase the leadership roles of women and their voices in the news media industry, and the safety of women journalists in the industry.

Joined by a few dozen participants from Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines and India, the themes discussed ranged from press freedom in Myanmar, the social media influence in the region, fake news and attacks on journalists on social media, to cultural norms and challenges facing women in leadership roles. The participants of the Women In News summit also highlighted a lack of safety policies within media companies, which have an impact on the safety and harassment of their female colleagues.

Renowned journalists like Rappler founder Maria Ressa from the Philippines, Stella Paul from India and Tran Le Thuy from Vietnam shared their experiences in digital journalism, tackling attacks on women journalists, pushing boundaries in investigative reporting and overcoming challenges to take a decision making role in the industry. At the roundtable discussion, recommendations regarding enhancing the safety of women journalists and increasing womens leadership were laid out for participants to share with the leaders of their countries.In 2018, even a company like Microsoft, which once described Linux as a cancer, has no problem dealing with the open source operating system. But NBN Co, the company rolling out Australia's national broadband network, appears to have issues.

For Monday's half-yearly results, anyone who attempted to join the webcast using Linux would have found a disconcerting message confronting them.

The message read: "We have detected that your operating system does not meet the optimal webinar specifications for listening to and/or viewing webinars.

"We recommend the following operating systems:Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and the latest Mac OS X.

"Please note that users with older versions of Windows (Windows Vista, XP, 2000, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows 95), Mac, Linux and Unix operating systems may experience difficulties listening to and/or viewing webinars."

Apart from a PC and a laptop both of which run Debian GNU/Linux, I have an old Mac lying around. But on trying to connect using that, I discovered that NBN Co only likes the new, shiny Macs.

From the start of the NBN rollout, NBN Co has provided enough evidence to show that it is somewhat backward when it comes to communication. That its webcast cannot be viewed on a Linux system just underlines that.YouTube has announced further restrictions on the use of the site beyond the existing rules for striking channel owners off when videos deemed unsuitable are uploaded, in a clear indication that all the steps it has taken over the last 10 months to sanitise the platform have not had the desired effect.

The video-sharing site, which is owned by Google, said in a blog post it would remove channels from Google Preferred  its programme that allows advertisers to pay to place their ads on high-performing videos on the site  if unsuitable content was uploaded.

The new actions will be taken "in the rare event when one creators actions harm the entire community".

Additionally, Ariel Bardin, vice-president of Product Management at YouTube, said it would remove a creator's YouTube Original. According to Wikipedia, "The YouTube Original Channel Initiative was a US$100 million programme funded by Google to bring original content onto Google."

YouTube had issues with content, with major advertisers pulling their ads beginningwhen a report appeared stating that these ads were appearing on videos which had racist, sexist, extremist and anti-Semitic content.

In November last year, it was reported that clips of scantily dressed children were carrying ads from brands like Mondelez, Lidl and Mars.

Recently, it was reported that the algorithm used by YouTube to recommend videos related to one that a user is viewing appears to often lead to conspiracy theories, partisan viewpoints and misleading clips, even though the viewer has not shown any interest in that kind of content.

Apart from the penalties listed above, Bardin said: "We may suspend a channels ability to serve ads, ability to earn revenue and potentially remove a channel from the YouTube Partner Program, including creator support and access to our YouTube Spaces.

"We may remove a channels eligibility to be recommended on YouTube, such as appearing on our home page, trending tab or watch next."

Viewers around the world watch more than a billion hours of video on YouTube every day. More than 200 million different videos are recommended in 80 languages daily.Despite the fact that a number of suburbs which were marked down to get the national broadband network via HFC cable have had a quiet change of technology, NBN Co head honcho Bill Morrow says that there is no change in the HFC rollout.

At the half-yearly results announcement on Monday, Morrow said the issues with the HFC rollout, which led to the company putting such connections on hold in December last year, were technology-related and would be sorted.

He stressed that HFC was a vital component of the technology mix and it would proceed as indicated after the problems were sorted out.

Last month, iTWire reported that at least two suburbs in Melbourne had been switched from HFC to other technologies.

In November last year, NBN Cothere were some issues with Telstra's HFC cable system which were bedevilling progress on the rollout.

The company then announced in December that houses and businesses slated to receive the NBN over HFC would have to wait between six and nine months longer for connections.

Under the revised rollout plan, put in place after the Coalition Government came to power in 2013, the NBN Co planned to use both the Telstra and Optus HFC networks as a means of delivering the NBN, in order speed up the rollout.

The Optus HFC network was later found to be in an unusable state and its use was discontinued. The Telstra HFC network was used until the cessation of connections in December 2017.

iTWire asked the company for clarification at the time, but there was no response.NBN Co, the company rolling out Australia's national broadband network, has reported a record loss for both a quarter and a half-year, with the company losing $1.13 billion for the three months October to December 2017 and running up a $2.4 billion loss for the first six months of financial year 2018.

The latest accounts for the six months to the end of December 2017 were announced on Monday, with the company's chief executive, Bill Morrow, saying that the company was on track for a scheduled end to the rollout by 2020 as laid out earlier.

According to NBN Co, 6.1 million premises are now ready to connect, and there are 3.4 million active services.

Bill Morrow presenting the NBN Co's results for the half-year on Monday.

Revenue surged by 121% from $403 million at 31 December 2016 to $891 million at 31 December 2017, NBN Co reports. The company reported losses of $4.24 billion for the full-year 2017 and $2.75 billion for the full-year 2016.

But despite the increasing cost to the public purse, Morrow told analysts and media that the company had demonstrated its ability to deliver on the build and it had all been done within forecasts, sounding confident it would be completed, on budget, by 2020.

Describing the last six months as one of the most significant deployment periods in the companys history, Morrow said, Theres been a significant program of activity (in the last six months) and were seeing less complaints and next week well speak about more of progress and how we keep track of initiatives.

With industry and retail service providers, were confident we will get this right, thats what customers expect. Our priority network connection are not slowing down. Were on track to completion in 2020.

Well deliver the network as quick as possible at the least cost to taxpayer, Morrow promised.

For the six months there was a slight lift in the average revenue per user on the NBN from $43 to $44.

The company was buoyant on progress in getting the NBN working for residents and businesses nationally, as it reported activations continued to grow, with more than 940,000 new premises signing up to services and almost 3.4 million activated in total.

As activations grew across the network, revenue surged by 121% from $403 million at 31 December 2016 to $891 million at 31 December 2017.

"Further company highlights include: positive results from the first fibre-to-the-curb customer trials, release of new satellite broadband packages and an increase in wholesale Sky Muster data limits, signing a new Wholesale Broadband Agreement with retail service."

NBN Co maintains it is committed to improving the end user experience and notes its launching of a number of initiatives during the 2018 half year, including two significant decisions to improve experience for end users who are active on the access network.

NBN Co announced discounts on its top-tier wholesale internet access plans in a move to encourage retailers to provide speeds to meet the needs and expectations of end users. The company is already seeing less congestion on the network and increased take-up of wholesale plans based on the 50/20 Mpbs speed tier, the company notes.

In November 2017, the company also paused all activations on the HFC network to conduct necessary upgrades to improve quality of service. The pause on sales will be in effect until this fieldwork is complete.

These two initiatives form part of NBN Cos broader program of activity targeting end user customer experience including: improvements to home and business installations, new fault detection and resolution processes, enhanced case management timelines with retailers, and additional support and management for business customers.

While customer experience is a priority, NBN Co remains on track to complete the initial build by 2020 and the peak funding forecast continues to be consistent with guidance provided in the Corporate Plan 2018, Morrow said.

In the six months, weve delivered on some of our most ambitious targets that bring us closer to our 2020 goals. As at 31 December 2017, more than 95% of households and businesses are in design, construction or are already able to order a service over the NBN access network.

While that is success we can be proud of, weve demonstrated that we wont pursue those objectives singlemindedly at the expense of customer experience."

Photo and graphics: courtesy NBN CoUntil recently, disruption in IT meant something very different than sending everybody home to work for a year. But the COVID-19 pandemic has shaken up the technology landscape, stalling some approaches and systems, while speeding the adoption of others.

In our recent State of the CIO survey, tech leaders placed AI and machine learning at the top of their list of technologies most likely to significantly impact how businesses operate in 2021. IT leaders also see big data and analytics having a distinct impact, along with less widely adopted technologies such as blockchain.

We reached out to IT leaders and industry analysts to get their take on which technologies pose the most disruptive potential in 2021, with some offering perspective on which technologies might be in favor as the pandemic subsides.

AI and machine learning

The near ubiquity of artificial intelligence across industries is helping businesses make decisions and increasing convenience for customers, but its been accompanied by growing pains. While 62% of IT leaders surveyed in our State of the CIO report see AI as a key disrupter in 2021, Michael Ringman, CIO of Telus International, shares a widely held view that AI requires intentional ethical practices during development, to avoid biases. And he suggests an approach that isnt just silicon-based.Article Currently Unavailable





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Today

Areas of patchy fog early. Partly cloudy. High 88F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 71F. Winds light and variable.Reddit Email 29 Shares

Human Rights Watch |  

(Beirut)  Bahraini authorities have deported eight stateless Bahrainis, whom they had previously stripped of their citizenship, since January 29, 2018, Human Rights Watch said today. The deportations followed an appeals court decision to uphold a 2012 ruling that ordered the deportation and stripping of citizenship of nine Bahraini nationals for damaging state security.

Since 2012, Bahraini authorities have stripped 578 nationals of their citizenship, leaving many stateless. In the most recent cases, on January 31, the Fourth High Criminal Court stripped 47 people of their citizenship on terrorism related charges, and on February 1 the same court stripped another 25 people of their citizenship. Bahrain should immediately put an end to these arbitrary deportations and restore citizenship to those who have been left stateless or whose citizenship was revoked unfairly or arbitrarily, Human Rights Watch said.

Bahraini authorities have dropped all pretense of pluralism and tolerance for dissent and are clearly stripping away the citizenships of people whom they find undesirable, said Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East director at Human Right Watch.

On January 24, the First High Court of Appeal upheld a November 7, 2012 ruling to strip citizenship from the nine people and to deport them, according to a news report citing their lawyer.

Authorities deported four of them to Najaf, Iraq  two brothers, Ibrahim and Ismail Darwish, on January 29, and Adnan Kamal and Habib Darwish on January 30, a human rights activist in Bahrain told Human Rights Watch. Due to concerns for their safety, the human rights activist requested to remain anonymous. Bahrain deported another four to Najaf on February 1: Abdulnabi al-Mosawi; his wife, Maryam Ibrahim; and his two brothers, Mohamed al-Mosawi and Abdulamir al-Mosawi. The ninth person, Adnan Ahmed Ali, was not in Bahrain when the judgment was delivered. The human rights activist said that Ali had agreed to voluntarily leave Bahrain for Iran some years ago.

These nine people were part of a larger group of 31 people, including opposition political activists, lawyers, and rights activists, whose citizenship an Interior Ministry decree revoked on November 7, 2012. The ministry based its decision on Article 10 (3) of the Bahraini Citizenship Act of 1963, claiming the 31 were damaging the security of the state. Only 18 of the 31 were in Bahrain at the time. Only an estimated five had dual citizenship, leaving the majority affected by the 2012 decision stateless.

The activist also told Human Rights Watch that the High Appeal Civil Court had moved up a session to consider the groups appeals from December 31, 2017, to October 26 without informing the legal teams. Though the lawyers were not at the hearing and had no opportunity to present their cases, the court refused to rescind the order. The court action deprived the 31 people of their chance to exhaust all legal means to challenge the charges against them, the activist said. The Appeals Court used this decision in its ruling to uphold the deportation orders for the nine members of the group.

Since 2012, Bahrains courts have on several occasions issued mass sentences that included stripping of citizenship and prison terms. The 47 people stripped of citizenship on January 31 were among 60 the Fourth High Criminal Court sentenced that day on charges of forming a terrorist group.

Bahrains Supreme Court on January 29 also upheld a one-year prison sentence for Sheikh Isa Qassim, a Shiite spiritual leader of the now dissolved main opposition group al-Wefaq, and confirmed the revocation of his citizenship.

On July 24, 2014, Bahrains Official Gazette published amendments to the Citizenship Law of 1963. Article 10 permits the Interior Ministry, with cabinet approval, to strip the citizenship of a person who aids or is involved in the service of a hostile state or who causes harm to the interests of the Kingdom or acts in a way that contravenes his duty of loyalty to it. The July 2014 amendments to Bahrains citizenship laws grant the Interior Ministry additional authority to revoke the citizenship of people who fail in their duty of loyalty to the state.

Article 15 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the right to a nationality and that no-one shall be arbitrarily deprived of their nationality. Article 12 of the declaration states that, No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of the right to enter his own country. In 1999, the Human Rights Committee, which interprets the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Bahrain has signed, stated that The scope of his own country is broader than the concept country of his nationality, and that it would apply to people who have been stripped of their nationality in violation of international law.

Article 29 of the Arab Charter on Human Rights, which Bahrain has ratified, states that Every person has the right to a nationality, and no citizen shall be deprived of his nationality without a legally valid reason.

By slapping human rights defenders, political activists, journalists, and religious scholars with arbitrary citizenship revocations and deportations, Bahraini authorities are reducing courts to rubber-stamps on their quest to stifle dissent completely, Whitson said.

Via Human Rights Watch



Bonus video added by Informed Comment:

AP Archive: Human rights group says activist imprisoned in Bahrain at riskReddit Email 135 Shares

By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) |  

BBC Monitoring reports on a statement in Russian at the site of its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reacting to the Israeli air attacks on Syria and the shoot-down by the Syrians of one Israeli fighter-jet.

The Foreign ministry expressed serious concern over the Israeli air strikes, and called for restraint. The statement inserts Russia into the issue by asserting that the Israeli air strikes could cause violence to rise in and around the de-escalation zones, areas where rebels and the Syrian government have an uneasy temporary truce. (While many of these zones have become a joke because of Syrian government incursions, some, like the one around Deraa, have held, and have reduced violence).

Russia asked Israel to respect Syrias sovereignty and territorial integrity and pointed out that Tel Aviv has put Russian servicemen in danger.

As diplomatic notes go, this one is brutally frank. The demand that Israel respect Syrian sovereignty is perhaps a way of teasing the Israelis, who maintained that the Syrian shoot-down of their jet, which was striking targets inside Syria, was an attack on Israels sovereignty. Apparently Israeli sovereignty in the minds of the ruling Likud Party and cabinet allies (a Star Wars bar scene full of far-right weirdo little parties) extends beyond the still undefined Israeli borders to wherever they want it to.

Likewise, the warning that Israel should not put Russian servicemen in danger is blunt. Presumably the issue arises because Israel will attempt to destroy Syrian air defense batteries, many of them trained and advised by Russian military personnel.

BBC Monitoring also reports that according to Ynet in Hebrew, Israel called on Russia to intervene to stop Iran from flying drones in the Golan Heights area of Syria, part of which Israel militarily occupies, and on part of which it gives aid to fundamentalist Syrian rebels, one of them with al-Qaeda ties.

Israel hit 3 Syrian anti-aircraft batteries on Saturday, along with 4 targets it says are Iranian military facilities in that country, but says it has no intention to go further at this time. (I.e. Tel Aviv realizes that hitting a lot of Syrian anti-aircraft stations would in fact risk killing Russians).

Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin talked by phone on Saturday, according to Russias Interfax. Putin discouraged Israel from actions that would further destabilize Syria. Netanyahu declared israels right to protect itself, by which he seems to mean its right to protect its Golan occupation and sphere of interest in Syrian Quneitra.

It seems to me that Russia increasingly has to make some decisions about the Israeli front in the southwest of Syria. Either it has to restrain Iran and Hizbullah, effectively ceding control over that part of Syria to the fundamentalist rebels and the Israeli army, or it has to take over Syrian air defense and prevent Israeli air strikes in Syria. Otherwise, as the Russian Foreign Ministry pointed out, Russian personnel are increasingly in danger.

On the Israeli side, Netanyahu, who is in danger of indictment on corruption charges, has been accused of wagging the dog or trying to escalate tensions with Syria and Iran for political gain inside Israel.

-

Bonus video:

Iranian Govt Press TV: Russia urges Israel to avoid any escalationReddit Email 139 Shares

( Tomdispatch.com) |  

The new U.S. energy policy of the Trump era is, in some ways, the oldest energy policy on Earth. Every great power has sought to mobilize the energy resources at its command, whether those be slaves, wind-power, coal, or oil, to further its hegemonic ambitions. What makes the Trumpian variant  the unfettered exploitation of Americas fossil-fuel reserves  unique lies only in the moment its being applied and the likely devastation that will result, thanks not only to the 1950s-style polluting of Americas air, waters, and urban environment, but to the devastating hand it will lend to a globally warming world.

Last month, if you listened to the chatter among elite power brokers at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, you would have heard a lot of bragging about the immense progress being made in renewable energy. My government has planned a major campaign, said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address to the group. By 2022, we want to generate 175 gigawatts of renewable energy; in the last three years, we have already achieved 60 gigawatts, or around one-third of this target. Other world leaders also boasted of their achievements in speeding the installation of wind and solar energy. Even the energy minister of oil-rich Saudi Arabia, Khalid Al-Falih, announced plans for a $30 billion to $50 billion investment in solar power. Only one major figure defied this trend: U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry. The United States, he insisted, is blessed with a substantial ability to deliver the people of the globe a better quality of life through fossil fuels.

A better quality of life through fossil fuels? On this, he and his Trump administration colleagues now stand essentially alone on planet Earth. Virtually every other country has by now chosen  via the Paris climate accord and efforts like those under way in India  to speed the transition from a carbon-based energy economy to a renewable one.

A possible explanation for this: Donald Trumps indebtedness to the very fossil fuel interests that helped propel him into office. Think, for example, of his interior secretarys recent decision to open much of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts to offshore drilling (long sought by the oil and gas industry) or his administrations moves to lift restrictions on coal mining on federal lands (long favored by the coal industry). Both were clearly acts of payback. Still, far more than subservience to oil and coal barons lurks in Trumps energy policy (and Perrys words). From the White House perspective, the U.S. is engaged in a momentous struggle for global power with rival nations and, it is claimed, the countrys abundance of fossil fuels affords it a vital edge. The more of those fuels America produces and exports, the greater its stature in a competitive world system, which is precisely why maximizing such output has already become a major pillar of President Trumps national security policy.

He laid out his dystopian world vision (and that of the generals hes put in charge of what was once known as American foreign policy) in a December 18th address announcing the release of the administrations new National Security Strategy (NSS) document. Whether we like it or not, he asserted, we are engaged in a new era of competition. The U.S. faces rogue regimes like Iran and North Korea and rival powers, Russia and China, that seek to challenge American influence, values, and wealth. In such an intensely competitive world, he added, we will stand up for ourselves, and we will stand up for our country like we have never stood up before Our rivals are tough. Theyre tenacious and committed to the long term. But so are we.

To Trump and his generals, weve been plunged into a world that bears little relation to the one faced by the last two administrations, when great-power conflict was rarely the focus of attention and civilian society remained largely insulated from the pressures of the countrys never-ending wars. Today, they believe, the U.S. can no longer afford to distinguish between the homeland and foreign battle zones when girding for years of struggle to come. To succeed, the president concluded, we must integrate every dimension of our national strength, and we must compete with every instrument of our national power.

And thats where, in the Trumpian worldview, energy enters the picture.

Energy Dominance

From the onset of his presidency, Donald Trump has made it clear that cheap and abundant domestic energy derived from fossil fuels was going to be the crucial factor in his total-mobilization approach to global engagement. In his view and that of his advisers, its the essential element in ensuring national economic vitality, military strength, and geopolitical clout, whatever damage it might cause to American life, the global environment, or even the future of human life on this planet. The exploitation and wielding of fossil fuels now sits at the very heart of the Trumpian definition of national security, as the recently released NSS makes all too clear.

Access to domestic sources of clean, affordable, and reliable energy underpins a prosperous, secure, and powerful America for decades to come, it states. Unleashing these abundant energy resources  coal, natural gas, petroleum, renewables, and nuclear  stimulates the economy and builds a foundation for future growth.

So, yes, the document does pay lip service to the role of renewables, though no one should take that seriously given, for instance, the presidents recent decision to place high tariffs on imported solar panels, an act likely to cripple the domestic solar-installation industry. What really matters to Trump are those domestic reserves of fossil fuels. Only by using them to gain energy self-sufficiency, or what he trumpets not just as energy independence but total energy dominance, can the U.S. avoid becoming beholden to foreign powers and so protect its sovereignty. Thats why he regularly hails the successes of the shale revolution, the use of fracking technology to extract oil and gas from deeply buried shale formations. As he sees it, fracking to the max makes America that much less dependent on foreign imports.

It follows then that the ability to supply fossil fuels to other countries will be a source of geopolitical advantage, a reality made painfully clear early in this century when Russia exploited its status as a major supplier of natural gas to Ukraine, Belarus, and other former Soviet republics to try to extract political concessions from them. Donald Trump absorbed that lesson and incorporated it into his strategic playbook.

Our country is blessed with extraordinary energy abundance, he declared at an Unleashing American Energy Event last June. We are a top producer of petroleum and the number-one producer of natural gas With these incredible resources, my administration will seek not only American energy independence that weve been looking for so long, but American energy dominance. And were going to be an exporter We will be dominant. We will export American energy all over the world, all around the globe.

Attaining Energy Dominance

In energy terms, what does dominant mean in practice? For President Trump and his cohorts, it means above all the unleashing of the countrys energy abundance by eliminating every imaginable regulatory impediment to the exploitation of domestic reserves of fossil fuels. After all, America possesses some of the largest reservoirs of oil, coal, and natural gas on the planet and, by applying every technological marvel at its disposal, can maximally extract those reserves to enhance national power.

The truth is that we have near-limitless supplies of energy in our country, he declared last June. All that stood in the way of exploiting them when he entered the Oval Office, he insisted, were environmental regulations imposed by the Obama administration. We cannot have obstruction. Since my very first day in office, I have been moving at record pace to cancel these regulations and to eliminate the barriers to domestic energy production. He then cited his approval of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines, the cancellation of a moratorium on the leasing of federal lands for coal mining, the reversal of an Obama administration rule aimed at preventing methane leakage from natural gas production on federal lands, and the rollback of Obamas Clean Power Plan, which (if implemented) would require sharp cuts in coal usage. And from the recent opening of the pristine Alaskan Arctic Refuge to that of those coastal waters to every kind of drilling, its never ended.

Closely related to such actions has been his repudiation of the Paris Agreement, because  as he saw it  that pact, too, stood in the way of his plan to unleash domestic energy in the pursuit of international power. By withdrawing from the agreement, he claimed to be preserving American sovereignty, while opening the path to a new kind of global energy dominance. We have so much more [energy] than we ever thought possible, he asserted. We are really in the driving seat. And you know what? We dont want to let other countries take away our sovereignty and tell us what to do and how to do it. Thats not going to happen.

Never mind that the Paris agreement in no way intruded on American sovereignty. It only obligated its partners  at this point, every country on Earth except the United States  to enact its own greenhouse gas emissions reduction measures aimed at preventing global temperatures from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius above their pre-industrial levels. (That is the biggest increase scientists believe the planet can absorb without experiencing truly catastrophic impacts like a 10-foot rise in global sea levels). In the Obama years, in its own self-designed blueprint for achieving this goal, the United States promised, among other things, to implement the Clean Power Plan to minimize the consumption of coal, itself already a dying industry. This, of course, represented an unacceptable impediment to Trumps extract-everything policy.

The final step in the presidents strategy to become a major exporter involves facilitating the transport of fossil fuels to the countrys coastal areas for shipment abroad. In this way, he would also turn the government into a major global salesman of fossil fuels (as it already is, for instance, of American weaponry). To do so, he would expedite the approval of permits for the export of LNG, or liquefied natural gas, and even for some new types of lower emissions coal plants. The Department of the Treasury, he revealed in that June talk of his, will address barriers to the financing of highly efficient, overseas coal energy plants. In addition, he claimed that the Ukrainians tell us they need millions and millions of metric tons [of coal] right now. There are many other places that need it, too. And we want to sell it to them, and to everyone else all over the globe who need[s] it. He also announced the approval of expanded LNG exports from a new facility at Lake Charles, Louisiana, and of a new oil pipeline to Mexico, meant to further boost American energy exports, and that will go right under the [as yet unbuilt] wall.

Such energy moves have generally been viewed as part of a pro-industry, anti-environmentalist agenda, which they certainly are, but each is also a component in an increasingly militarized strategy to enlist domestic energy in an epic struggle  at least in the minds of the president and his advisers  to ensure Americas global dominance.

Where All This Is Headed

Trump achieved many of these maximal-extraction objectives during his first year in office. Now, with fossil fuels uniquely imbedded in the countrys National Security Strategy, we have a clearer sense of whats happening. First of all, along with the further funding of the U.S. military (and of the modernization of the countrys nuclear arsenal), Donald Trump and his generals are making fossil fuels a crucial ingredient for bulking up our national security. In that way, they will turn anything (or any group) standing in the way of the extraction and exploitation of oil, coal, and natural gas into obstructers of the national interest and, quite literally, of American national security.

In other words, the expansion of the fossil fuel industry and its exports has been transformed into a major component of American foreign and security policy. Of course, such developments and the exports that go with them do generate income and sustain some jobs, but in the Trumpian view they also boost the countrys geopolitical profile by encouraging foreign friends and partners to rely ever more heavily on us for their energy needs, rather than adversaries like Russia or Iran. As a growing supplier of energy resources, technologies, and services around the world, the NSS declares without a hint of irony, the United States will help our allies and partners become more resilient against those that use energy to coerce.

As the Trump administration moves forward on all this, the key battlefield will undoubtedly be the building and maintaining of energy infrastructure  the pipelines and railroads carrying oil, gas, and coal from the American interior to processing and export facilities on the coasts. Because so many of the countrys large cities and population centers are on the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, or the Gulf of Mexico, and because the country has long depended on imports for much of its petroleum supply, a surprising share of existing energy infrastructure  refineries, LNG facilities, pumping stations, and the like  is already located along those same coasts. Yet much of the energy supply Trump seeks to exploit  the shale fields of Texas and North Dakota, the coal fields of Nebraska  is located in the interior of the country. For his strategy to succeed, such resource zones must be connected far more effectively to coastal facilities via a mammoth web of new pipelines and other transport infrastructure. All of this will cost vast sums of money and lead to intense clashes with environmentalists, Native peoples, farmers, ranchers, and others whose lands and way of life will be severely degraded when that kind of construction takes place, and who can be expected to resist.

For Trump, the road ahead is clear: do whatever it takes to install the infrastructure needed to deliver those fossil fuels abroad. Not surprisingly then, the National Security Strategy asserts that we will streamline the Federal regulatory approval processes for energy infrastructure, from pipeline and export terminals to container shipments and gathering lines. This is bound to provoke numerous conflicts with environmental groups and other inhabitants of what Naomi Klein, author of This Changes Everything, calls Blockadia  places like the Standing Rock Indian Reservation in North Dakota, where thousands of Native people and their supporters camped out last year in an ultimately unsuccessful effort to block construction of the Dakota Access pipeline. Given the administrations insistence on linking energy extraction to U.S. security, dont for a moment imagine that attempts to protest such moves wont be met with harsh treatment from federal law enforcement agencies.

Building all of that infrastructure will also prove expensive, so expect President Trump to make pipeline construction integral to any infrastructure modernization bill he sends to Congress, thereby securing taxpayer dollars for the effort. Indeed, the inclusion of pipeline construction and other kinds of energy build-out in any future infrastructure initiative is already a major objective of influential business groups like the American Petroleum Institute and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Rebuilding roads and bridges is fine, commented Thomas Donohue, the Chambers influential president, but were also living in the midst of an energy renaissance, yet we dont have the infrastructure to support it. As a result, he added, we must build the pipelines necessary to transport our abundant resources to market. Given the influence such corporate interests have over this White House and congressional Republicans, its reasonable to assume that any bill on infrastructure revitalization will be, at least in part, energy focused.

And keep in mind that for President Trump, with his thoroughly fossil-fuelized view of the world, this is just the beginning. Issues that may be viewed by others as environmental or even land-conservation matters will be seen by him and his associates as so many obstacles to national security and greatness. Facing what will almost certainly be a series of unparalleled potential environmental disasters, those who oppose him will also have to contest his view of the world and the role fossil fuels should play in it.

Selling more of them to foreign buyers, while attempting to stifle the development of renewals (and thereby ceding those true job-creating sectors of the economy to other countries) may be good for giant oil and coal corporations, but it wont win America any friends abroad at a moment when climate change is becoming a growing concern for ever more people on this planet. With prolonged droughts, increasingly severe storms and hurricanes, and killer heat waves affecting ever-larger swaths of the planet, with sea levels rising and extreme weather becoming the norm, the urge for progress on climate change is only growing stronger, as is the demand for climate-friendly renewables.

Donald Trump and his administration of climate-change deniers are quite literally living in the wrong century. The militarization of energy policy at this late date and the lodging of fossil fuels at the heart of national security policy may seem appealing to them, but its an approach thats obviously doomed. On arrival, it is, in fact, already the definition of obsolescence.

Unfortunately, given the circumstances of this planet at the moment, it also threatens to doom the rest of us. The further we look into the future, the more likely international leadership will fall on the shoulders of those who can effectively and efficiently deliver renewables, not those who can provide climate-poisoning fossil fuels. That being so, no one seeking global prestige would say at Davos or anywhere else that we are blessed with a substantial ability to deliver the people of the globe a better quality of life through fossil fuels.

Michael T. Klare, a TomDispatch regular, is a professor of peace and world security studies at Hampshire College and the author, most recently, of The Race for Whats Left. A documentary movie version of his book Blood and Oil is available from the Media Education Foundation. Follow him on Twitter at @mklare1.

Follow TomDispatch on Twitter and join us on Facebook. Check out the newest Dispatch Book, Alfred McCoys In the Shadows of the American Century: The Rise and Decline of U.S. Global Power, as well as John Dowers The Violent American Century: War and Terror Since World War II, John Feffers dystopian novel Splinterlands, Nick Turses Next Time Theyll Come to Count the Dead, and Tom Engelhardts Shadow Government: Surveillance, Secret Wars, and a Global Security State in a Single-Superpower World.

Copyright 2018 Michael T. Klare

Via Tomdispatch.com)VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Equinox Gold Corp. (TSX-V:EQX) (OTC:LWLCF) (Equinox Gold or the Company) announces that it has received C$19.2 million from Pacific Road Resources Funds (Pacific Road) and issued 21 million Equinox Gold common shares to Pacific Road pursuant to Pacific Roads exercise of non-dilution rights, as previously announced on January 16, 2018. The shares are subject to a four-month hold period expiring on June 9, 2018. No finders fees or commissions were paid in connection with the share issuance.

The C$19.2 million is in addition to the approximately C$89.4 million (US$71.3 million) in cash and marketable securities that Equinox Gold had at December 31, 2017. Construction of Equinox Golds Aurizona Gold Mine in Brazil is fully funded with the Companys existing treasury and a US$85 million secured project credit facility, of which US$15 million has already been drawn.

About Equinox Gold

Equinox Gold is a Canadian mining company with a multi-million-ounce gold resource base, near-term and growing gold production from two past-producing mines in Brazil and California, and a long-term growth platform with a diverse portfolio of gold and copper assets in North and South America. Construction is underway at the Companys Aurizona project in Brazil with the objective of pouring gold by year-end 2018, and a prefeasibility study is underway at the Companys Castle Mountain project in California with the objective of restarting production. Further information about Equinox Golds current portfolio of assets and long-term growth strategy is available at www.equinoxgold.com or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Equinox Gold Contacts

Christian Milau, CEO

Rhylin Bailie, Vice President Investor Relations

Tel: +1 604-558-0560

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cautionary Notes and Forward-Looking Statements

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This document contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively forward-looking statements). The use of the words underway, objective, subject to and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding construction activities underway at Aurizona, anticipated production from the Aurizona Gold Mine and Castle Mountain Gold Mine, the Castle Mountain prefeasibility study, and the growth potential of the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and/or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since the Company can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in the Companys periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators, and assumptions made with regard to the Companys ability to complete construction at Aurizona and the timing to achieve production; the Companys ability to complete construction within the approved budget; the Companys ability to complete the Castle Mountain prefeasibility study and the results of the study; and the Companys ability to achieve its expected growth and production potential. Furthermore, the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as at the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake any obligations to publicly update and/or revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of additional information, future events and/or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws.Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCwire) - Maxtech Ventures Inc. (CSE: MVT) (Frankfurt: M1N) (OTC: MTEHF), (Maxtech or the Company) begins due diligence on manganese mineralization in Central Province, Zambia.

GeoQuest is a fully independent Geological (Geotechnical), Environmental, GIS and Hydrogeological Consultancy and Contract Services Group based in Southern / Central Africa. The company has offices in Zambia, The Democratic Republic of Congo and Zimbabwe but has also worked in Botswana, Gabon, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania. GeoQuest has both in-house English and French speaking capability.

GeoQuest is led and managed by Julian D. Green BSc., MSc., D.I.C., CGeol., EURGeol, FGS, FSAIMM. Julian has worked as a Professional Exploration Geologist in Eastern Europe, Australia and particularly Central and Southern Africa for a variety of mining and exploration companies including Tesla, KGHM, Rio Tinto and Caledonia. Since being in Africa he has worked professionally in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, Botswana and the DRC. GeoQuest can provide a wide range of Property / Project Assessment and Evaluation Services to assist with Acquisition, Merger, Joint Venture and Fund Raising  including Competent Person Reporting (CPRs).

Zambia is one of the largest copper producers in Africa, and draws revenue from mining companies through taxes and royalties. At the recent Mining Indaba 2018 conference in Cape Town, South Africa , the Zambian Minister of Mines and Mineral Development, Hon Christopher Yaluma noted Zambia remained one of the most favorable Investment destinations in Southern Africa. Hon Yaluma added that Zambia due to the new mining policy instituted in 2014 is a lucrative mining jurisdiction for investors and global mining companies.

About Maxtech Ventures Inc.

Maxtech Ventures Inc. is a Canadian based diversified industries corporation with gold and manganese mineral properties. Its focus is on mining and the products that are derived therefrom.

For additional information see the Companys web site at http://www.maxtech-ventures.com

Email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Phone: 604-484-8989

Further information about the Company is available on www.SEDAR.com under the Companys profile.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements contained in this release may constitute forwardlooking statements or forward-looking information (collectively forward-looking information) as those terms are used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and similar Canadian laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words could, intend, expect, believe, will, projected, estimated, anticipates and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Companys current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to the business of the Company, the Property, financing and certain corporate changes. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ascot Resources Ltd (TSX-V:AOT) (Ascot or the Company) is pleased to announce that the United States Forest Service (USFS) recently released a Final Decision Notice & Finding of No Significant Impact related to two prospecting permits that were submitted by Ascot USA Inc (a wholly owned subsidiary of Ascot Resources Ltd) regarding its Mt. Margaret property, a porphyry copper-molybdenum-gold-silver deposit located 22.5 km southwest of Randle, Washington in Skamania county.

Previously the USFS had released a Draft Decision Notice on August 24, 2017, followed by a 45-day administrative review process. The decision is based on the detailed analysis of potential environmental impacts that are contained within a Modified Environmental Assessment related to the prospecting permits.

The USFS decision provides consent to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to issue two hardrock mineral prospecting permit applications on National Forest System lands. Ascot will now wait for the BLM to issue its decision regarding whether to issue the prospecting permits. The BLM decision is also subject to a 45-day appeal period.

Derek White, President & CEO, commented, The USFS final decision is based on a comprehensive review that assessed all potential environmental issues arising from of our exploration and prospecting plans for the Mt. Margaret deposit and found no significant impacts. We are pleased with the USFS final decision.

ASCOT RESOURCES LTD.

Per: Derek C. White

Derek C. White, President and CEO

For further information contact:

Kristina Howe

VP, Investor Relations

T: 778-725-1060

E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Ascot Resources Limited.

Suite 1500-505 Burrard Street

Vancouver, BC V7X 1M5

(778) 725-1060 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

(SEDAR filings: Ascot Resources Ltd.)

For more information on Mt Margaret and Ascots proposed program please go the Companys website www.ascotgold.com.

About Ascot Resources Ltd.

Ascot Resources is a focused gold and silver explorer with a portfolio of advanced and grassroots projects in the Golden Triangle region of British Columbia. The companys flagship Premier Project is a near-term high-grade advanced exploration project with large upside potential. With an experienced and highly regarded major shareholder, coupled with an experienced and successful exploration team, Ascot is poised to be the next Golden Triangle producer.

____________________

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

All statements, trend analysis and other information contained in this press release relative to markets about anticipated future events or results constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as seek, anticipate, believe, plan, estimate, expect and intend and statements that an event or result may, will, should, could or might occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including, without limitation; statements regarding the exploration and mineralization potential of the Premier property, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Ascots expectations include fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; the need for cooperation of government agencies and native groups in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; and uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Ascot does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.Polands adoption of a controversial law on the history of the Holocaust marked the transitional justice week. Once again, a country is trying to impose its vision of history through law and close all debate on its past. The text provides for prison sentences of up to three years for anyone who talks of Polish death camps or attributes responsibility or co-responsibility of the Polish State in Nazi crimes.

Historically, the extermination camps in Poland during the Second World War were German and the work of the Nazis without collaboration of the Warsaw government, unlike other countries such as France which collaborated with the enemy. Holocaust museum Yad Vashem writes clearly that to speak of Polish death camps is a distortion of history.

But these facts should not prevent an examination of Polands history at that time, when there was also denunciation of Jews to the occupying authorities and pogroms even after the war ended. This is a way of affirming a closed and narrow view of national identity, writes JusticeInfo editorial advisor Pierre Hazan.  Polands parliamentary majority is playing to nationalist sentiments.

Writing for JusticeInfo.net, transitional justice expert Tomasz Lachowski warns of the dangers this new law poses to freedom of expression. He wonders about the definition of the Polish nation put forward in the law. Fighting for historical truth with a penal code, instead of providing dialogue or education, is the matter of weak states, he concludes, and sadly, Poland has just joined such a club.

The Central African Republic is another country that is looking at its past and trying to define a path to transitional justice. We have a duty to bring justice, says bishop of Bossangoa Monsignor Francois Xavier Yombadje, who chairs a working group set up by civil society to define a transitional justice model. We cannot escape that, after the crisis we have been through. And justice cannot be done without reparations. In this interview he also asks: If we ever manage to emerge from this crisis, how are we going to fulfil our duty to remember? Are we going to erect a monument, like the one to the Martyrs?

Towards the end of the week came news that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is opening two preliminary examinations into political violence in Venezuela and the war on drugs in the

Philippinnes. At the ICC, a preliminary examination does not mean a trial or even an investigation. But this is a warning shot to incite the States to prosecute the perpetrators of the crimes in their own courts, writes our correspondent in The Hague. It also shows the almost universal reach of the ICC, which is now conducting nine preliminary examinations including the

Philippines and VeneVenezuela, she writes. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte responded angrily, claiming local laws do not specifically ban extrajudicial killings. It is not defined anywhere so how can you now accuse me of a crime, said Duterte. Some 4,000 suspected drug traffickers and users have been killed by police since he was elected. The authorities are also investigating 2,000 other drug-related murders committed by unknown perpetrators. Venezuela, which is about to hold presidential elections, also slammed the ICC move, saying it is politically motivated.Burton scholarships help four students at Kansas State Polytechnic put their dreams in flight

Monday, Feb. 12, 2018

SALINA  Four Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus students have received a significant boost to their dream of being professional pilots with the help of $10,000 scholarships from the Connor Burton Aviation fund.



The newest Burton scholars, all in Kansas State Polytechnic's professional pilot program, are Mychal Akers, Junction City; Nahuel Bugosen, Kansas City, Missouri; and Chad Frerichs, Aledo, Texas; and Michael Edwards, Dallas, Texas. Their scholarships are split between their junior and senior years and help pay for flying time or books and tuition, enabling the students to earn their flight certificates more quickly.

All four scholars have wanted to become pilots since childhood.

For Akers, a childhood of frequent cross-country trips inspired him to seek a career as a pilot.

"When I was a little kid, I got to fly across the country all by myself. It was a big sense of freedom," Akers said. "One of the captains put me in the captain's seat, put his hat on my head and gave me a pilot badge. He told me I was the captain. It was the coolest thing for me as a kid."

Akers' favorite toy as a child was a flight simulator, and he would spend hours playing and practicing in preparation for his dream career. For a birthday, Akers' parents surprised him with a helicopter ride in San Francisco. That sealed the deal  he was going to be a pilot.

Akers wanted to turn that childhood fascination into a career, but feared one thing stood in his way: he is partially color blind.

He put his dream on hold and joined the military. He was injured near the completion of his time in the military and spent four months bedridden. He used that time to evaluate his next step and decide if he could really become a pilot.

"I started researching and it turned out that I could be a pilot and be color blind," Akers said. "I just had to prove it to the Federal Aviation Administration that I could see the appropriate colors."

He began his journey to a professional pilot degree at Kansas State Polytechnic in January 2015. Akers has worked his way up to a position as a certified flight instructor, helping other Kansas State Polytechnic students learning to fly.

"This scholarship from the Burton Aviation Foundation is helping me take care of my family, provide better lessons for my students as a certified flight instructor, and complete my degree at Kansas State Polytechnic," he said.

Growing up, Bugosen would look up as airplanes were flying across the sky and dream of being in the cockpit as the pilot.

But Bugosen began his college career in a different program at another university before deciding he wanted to take his life a different route. When determining his next step, he came back to his childhood dream of being a pilot.

He found Kansas State Polytechnic when researching aviation universities. After going on visits to Polytechnic and other aviation universities, he ultimately decided that Polytechnic was the place for him.

"I visited the Polytechnic campus and really enjoyed it," Bugosen said. "The program, number of instructors and fleet were all very professional. It is a cool place, and the fact that it's connected to the Manhattan campus and you get a degree from K-State is what really sold me."

His experiences in the professional pilot program have led him to set a goal of flying abroad in Europe or Asia.

"I am super grateful for this scholarship," Bugosen said. "Financial assistance helps people stick to what they want to do. This scholarship goes completely to funding my education and gets me closer to my goals and taking my next step."

Frerichs knew how to fly before he knew how to drive. Growing up with a father who was a pilot in the U.S. Air Force provided an up-close look at airplanes and began an interest that will soon be a degree.

"We had to solo a glider before we could learn to drive so that we knew and understood the risks and would be better drivers," Frerichs said.

Frerichs grew up in Aledo, which is near Fort Worth, Texas. He was part of a Texas Soaring Association club for those who enjoy flying, and especially flying gliders. As part of that club, Frerichs received his glider license and then his single engine license as a teenager.

He first heard of Kansas State Polytechnic through an alumnus who spoke at his glider club. Frerichs was able to easily transfer credits to Kansas State University and enrolled as a junior at Kansas State Polytechnic in the professional pilot degree option and the aviation maintenance management program.

Frerichs plans to join the military upon graduation and fly with the Air Force or National Guard. After his military experience, he would like to fly cargo with UPS or FedEx, similar to his father. Financial support from the Burton Aviation Foundation puts him closer to his goals.

"I'm so glad I earned the Burton Aviation Foundation scholarship. It really helps with tuition," Frerichs said. "I've been flying since middle school. It's been a part of my life then, and it's a part of me now."

Edwards has had an interest in airplanes since he was a child. His grandfather, an airline attorney, took notice.

"My grandfather knew I loved to fly so much and encouraged me to look into the professional pilot option here at Kansas State Polytechnic," Edwards said. "Once I looked into the program, I fell in love with it."

Edwards' parents also helped to support his love of flying.

"My parents got me a discovery flight in middle school," Edwards said. "An instructor takes you up and shows you what it's like to be a pilot. I loved it. I got my private pilot's license when I was a senior in high school and decided to continue and get my degree at Kansas State Polytechnic."

One of Edwards' favorite things about Kansas State Polytechnic is his community of peers. The small class sizes at the campus make it possible to develop close friendships with other students and share in the excitement of learning to fly.

"You get to go fly during the week and then hang out on the weekends and talk about your flights," Edwards said. "Everyone tries to help everyone else out. It's a tight-knit community."

Edwards wants to be either a commercial airline pilot or cargo pilot.

"It means a lot to be selected for a Burton Aviation Foundation scholarship," Edwards said. "This scholarship will help pay for my flight costs and also help to get more flight ratings, all things I need to be a successful pilot."195 Shares Share

The Los Angeles Times recently published an article chronicling the beginning of disgraced Dr. Larry Nassars career up to his disgusting acts of molesting young Olympic gymnast women. The author egregiously states,

Osteopathic medicine focuses on the joints, muscles, and spine. Historically, though, osteopathy  its original name  was closely associated with a set of esoteric massage styles that some researchers now consider ineffective or worse. For its part, MSUs College of Osteopathic Medicine still teaches these unusual manipulations  a special benefit unique to osteopathic medicine  describing them as a form of hands-on diagnosis and treatment. Some historical context: Andrew Taylor Still, the founder of osteopathy, wrote of his medical discoveries in 1897: I could twist a man one way and cure flux  shake a child and stop scarlet fever  cure whooping cough in three days by a wring of the childs neck. Modern osteopathic medicine uses none of these techniques to treat infections  or anything else. But the specter of violence and child abuse that Still conjured in his early writings continues to haunt the fringes of osteopathic medicine. These practices include intravaginal manipulation. Fisting. This was the medical procedure Nassar performed on so many young girls   Just last year, the American Osteopathic Assn. released a statement to MLive.com, the Michigan news service, saying that intravaginal manipulations are indeed an approved, if rare, osteopathic treatment for pelvic pain.

She insinuates that osteopathic physicians are given treatment tools they could use as excuses to molest any patient they please. Being a third-year osteopathic medical student, I have not learned or even heard of a single intravaginal osteopathic technique, or any technique that would even border the line of inappropriate touching.

Sure, the American Osteopathic Association may say they are approved, yet rare treatment for pelvic pain, that doesnt mean any morally sound physician would use it without appropriate consent and explanation to the patient first. Does she know what is an approved treatment for some psychiatric disorders? Electroconvulsive shock therapy: Yet that doesnt mean doctors are lining up to shock the hell out of their patients.

I can be the first one to admit that osteopathic medicine was founded on rather questionable beliefs, but the author fails to mention that the field was created based off the rejection of practices of MDs which included arsenic, castor oil, and bloodletting as treatment options to their patients. Andrew Taylor Still himself was an MD.

The fact is osteopathic curriculum mirrors their MD counterparts besides taking an extra class focusing on osteopathic manipulative treatment, otherwise known as OMT. The majority of my classes were taught by MDs.

Osteopathic medicine was founded on a principle that many disease processes could be fixed by correcting musculoskeletal dysfunction. We are taught many techniques to relieve muscle and joint aches through stretching a muscle out or using the patients own force to relax. I would hardly call them massages as the author states. She asserts research shows that OMT is ineffective, or worse harmful yet provides no evidence of her claims.

Where was this authors outrage when an MD was caught masturbating on sedated patients? Does that mean every MD has the power to do the same with their medical knowledge? The authors extremely naive assertions are dangerous to people needing medical help, who will now be dissuaded to seek care from osteopathic physicians based on lies and careless misinformation.

She fails to realize that a degree doesnt make a physician who they are. Does she really believe if Dr. Nassar received an MD degree instead, he wouldnt have committed these atrocities? In a time where fake news is infiltrating our society, its imperative to shed light on the truth instead of attempting to tear down an entire profession based off of one man.

Brandon Jacobi is a medical student.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com(Adds budget deficit, quotes)

GABORONE, Feb 5 (Reuters) - Botswana's economy is projected to expand at a faster pace this year compared to last year as the mining sector benefits from a recovery in the global economy, Finance Minister Kenneth Matambo said on Monday.

Presenting the 2018 budget to parliament, Matambo said GDP growth was projected at 5.3 percent in 2018 from an estimated 4.7 percent expansion in 2017.

Matambo said Botswana's budget deficit was projected to widen to 3.59 billion pula ($372 million) or 1.8 percent of GDP in the 2018/19 fiscal year from an estimated deficit of 2.42 billion pula or 1.3 percent of GDP in the prior year.

The country's fiscal year runs from April to March.

"Although the economy is expected to improve in performance, our fiscal position remains tight and government will continue to manage expenditure," Matambo said.

"Government sees the expected deficit to be temporal and will therefore be financed by a combination of drawing down on existing loans and cash reserves."

($1 = 9.6525 pulas)

(Writing by Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo; Editing by James Macharia)Islamic terror attacks in the West are far less common since 2017Posted by Mark Williams | February 12, 2018





By Mike Magda

Are the terms half ton, three-quarter ton and one ton being completely pushed out of the truck owner's lexicon in favor of the 1500, 2500 and 3500 designations?

As PickupTrucks.com reported nearly six years ago, the terms originated in the early 1900s when the military and truck manufacturers assigned verified payload capacities to different models. Eventually, three distinct classes of consumer trucks evolved using those terms to identify each class even though the actual payload capacities dramatically exceeded the original weight ratings.

The Ratings Game

Most truck owners  especially those with World War II backgrounds  had no problem identifying consumer pickup classes with those terms, and eventually passed the informal terminology along to the next generation.

Half-ton, three-quarter-ton and one-ton trucks now represent a range of gross vehicle weight ratings to help consumers select the truck that fits their hauling and towing needs. Not wanting to confuse those buyers, truck manufacturers started branding those three weight classes with their own designations: GM and Ram use 1500, 2500 and 3500, while Ford uses 150, 250 and 350. For extreme trailering applications, the automakers now make their once-commercial-only 4500 and 450 medium-duty trucks available to the general consumer market.

However popular the half-, three-quarter- and one-ton terms are with the pickup enthusiasts, automakers no longer recognize them in their promotional or dealer-training materials.

What Dealers Say

"Today's truck customers are much more sophisticated and educated on the capability of the truck," said Brian Rathsburg, Ford Super Duty marketing manager. "We educate with the facts  configurations first, then drive-specific payload and towing requirements."

"Those terms don't come up as much, except [with] some of the older buyers who have been around trucks all their lives," agreed Travis Theel, assistant sales manager at Liberty Superstores, a Ram dealership that serves a large ranching region in western South Dakota and eastern Wyoming. "We ask what they're pulling and how they use their truck before making a recommendation. Most of the customers are already knowledgeable about what they need."

Theel said some veteran truck buyers from his agriculture-heavy region routinely asked for a new one-ton or 3500 truck because that was the only model that could pull their livestock trailers 10 or 15 years ago.

"They didn't realize that the new 2500 models can handle their needs while offering a better ride unloaded," Theel added.

What About Outlier Loads?

When the market supported lightweight pickups like the Datsun 520, the term quarter-ton truck was occasionally used to distinguish them from full-size pickups even though payload ratings for those vehicles were as much as 1,000 pounds or more. However, the growing popularity of the 4500/450 series (some might want to call them 1.5-ton trucks) for consumer use in towing large travel trailers has yet to generate a complementary term using the nostalgic expressions.

"That terminology is unscientific and irrelevant in today's truck," Rathsburg confirmed. "Based on official GVWR classification, the [Ford] F-450 is a Class III pickup with a GVWR under 14,000 pounds, so it competes with similar products."

Where We Are Today

As noted in our 2012 story, designating specific payload ratings was an important milestone in the historical development of today's pickup truck. Moving away from colloquial terms that are often confusing to first-time buyers is a positive step. It won't be long before the actual payload and the vehicle's recommended limitations will be common information on dashboard displays, so there won't be any driver uncertainty. Until then, automakers and dealers need to be more candid with shoppers regarding actual payload capacities well before they purchase a vehicle.

Most marketing materials advertise a maximum payload capacity for an entire family of pickups, such as a 1500 lineup. However, we know that maximum payload numbers are generally assigned only to one or two low-volume specific configurations  usually a two-wheel-drive, regular-cab long bed with a heavy-duty suspension and gearing package. The much more popular configurations, like the four-wheel-drive, crew-cab short bed with a more comfortable base suspension, is likely to have a much lower payload rating.

To avoid any deception, misleading recommendations or improper purchases, it might be more informative to advertise a payload range for each class of pickup, instead of just the maximum payload weight across the lineup. Who knows? Maybe someday the actual payload or towing capacity of a given pickup will be written across the windshield along with its price.

Cars.com photos by Mark Williams, Christian Lantry19:20

Facing the charge of practising "soft Hindutva", Congress president Rahul Gandhi today defended his visits to temples and religious places, asserting that he would continue it.





"I like going to temples, wherever I get religious place I go there. I feel good and feel happy, and I will continue (to go)," Gandhi told reporters in Karnataha's Jewargi.

On a four-day election campaign in poll-bound Karnataka, Gandhi was responding to BJP state President B S Yeddyurappa's "Election Hindu" jibe at him.

"I heartily welcome #ElectionHindu @OfficeOfRG to Ballari. The #Congress President will fulfill our dream of a #CongressMuktKarnataka," Yeddyurappa had said in a tweet, ahead of Gandhi's visit to the state from February 10.





Gandhi's temple run in his election itinerary which began in the run-up to the Gujarat assembly polls, has invited the criticism from the BJP that it was an election exercise.

Other critics have called it "soft Hindutva."

During his current tour to north Karnataka, Gandhi visited Goddess Huligamma temple, a famous shrine in the region, and Gavi Siddheshwara Mutt, a mutt of the majority Lingayat community.

He also visited a Dargah in Raichur today.

In his brief interaction with reporters, Gandhi asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Yeddyurappa to inform people about the reasons why ministers during BJP rule in the state had to go to jail.

He said "Modiji comes here and speaks about corruption. Yeddyurappa is someone who had gone to jail and come."

"When Yeddyurappa and Modiji speak about corruption, they should inform people that during BJP rule four ministers had gone to jail, Yeddyurappa himself had gone to jail and 11 ministers had to resign. Let them explain about it," he said. -- PTI09:04

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday claimed that he knew "from the very beginning" that his alliance with Lalu Prasad's Rashtriya Janata Dal "would not last for more than a year-and-a-half", but he did his best to carry on in the grand alliance, which ultimately disintegrated last year.

The grand alliance ministry, headed by Kumar, collapsed in July last year after the chief minister resigned over graft charge against his then deputy, Tejashwi Yadav.

Subsequently, Kumar joined hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party to form another coalition government in Bihar.

"The very day the mahagathbandhan government was installed, I had said to those close to me that this was not going to last for more than a year-and-a-half. I knew it from the very beginning. I still managed to carry on for 20 months," the Janata Dal-United chief told reporters in Patna on the sidelines of his weekly Lok Samvad (public interaction) programme.

He said this while reacting to the allegations of "betrayal of mandate", levelled against him by the RJD and the Congress -- the two other constituents of the erstwhile mahagathbandhan.

The grand alliance was formed shortly after the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when Kumar and Prasad decided to bury the hatchet.

Both the JD-U and the RJD had suffered a severe drubbing in the Parliamentary election, which saw the BJP putting up its best ever electoral performance, riding on a strong wave in favour of Narendra Modi.

However, Kumar's statement drew flak from former JD-U president Sharad Yadav, who had raised a banner of revolt when the Bihar chief minister joined hands with the BJP.

"If he (Kumar) knew that the alliance was not going to last, why did he agree for such a tie-up in the first place. It is an illogical thing to say. He is suffering from pangs of guilt for his volte face and trying to justify his actions by such utterances," Yadav told a TV news channel in Delhi.

Yadav was disqualified from the Rajya Sabha a couple of months ago, following an application by the JD-U, which had held that the former party president's presence at rallies and meetings organised by the RJD-Congress combine were tantamount to his having "voluntary renounced" the membership of the party.

Reacting to Kumar's statement, Tejashwi Yadav tweeted, saying, "This is what I have been saying since the beginning that Tejashwi was just an excuse. Paltu chacha (turncoat uncle) had vicious plans beforehand."

"The respected 67-year-old should be ashamed that he made a 28-year-old an excuse for his shenanigans. Uncle, you could have parted ways like a man," Yadav, who is the younger son of Lalu Prasad, said. -- PTINepal, February 12: The Indian Cultural Centre, Embassy of India in Kathmandu has showcased the Odissi dance recitals at a cultural event which was organized to celebrate '70 years of diplomatic ties between India and Nepal' and 'Maha Shivaratri Festival' at Nepal Army Auditorium.

According to the local media reports, the event, organised on February 10, featured the most versatile 10-member Odissi dance troupe led by Dr. Sujata Mishra from Odissa. The students and artists of Indian Cultural Centre performed various folk dance forms as well. According to reports, Veteran Nepali actress Mithila Sharma was present at the event as the chief guest and inaugurated the function together with Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri.

As close neighbours, India and Nepal share a unique relationship of friendship and cooperation characterised by deeply rooted people-to-people contacts of kinship and culture. To this end, the dance performance by the Odissi dance troupe from India was an effort of the Indian Cultural Centre aiming at further cementing the bilateral relations. The visit of the 10-member Odissi troupe led by Dr. Sujata Mishra was supported by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), according to local media.Feb 12, 2018, 2:07am ET

BMW M8 concept coming to Geneva?

Don\'t wait for a supercar; the M8 will be BMW\'s flagship.

BMW has big plans for this year's edition of the Geneva Auto Show, according to two different media outlets. The company will introduce a close-to-production concept built to preview the first-ever M8.

The BMW M8 concept will be a hotter version of the 8 Series concept introduced last year. Enthusiast website BMW Blog reports the model will be "different in style" than the last design study, though it will remain part of the 8 Series family. In other words: don't expect to see a supercar.

British magazine Autocar adds the M8 will receive an evolution of the twin-turbocharged, 4.4-liter V8 engine found under the hood of the newest M5. It will make 600 horsepower, and it will receive the same all-wheel drive system as its four-door sibling.

The M8 already made its debut as a GTE-spec car during the 24 Hours of Daytona. Fans will get to see it again in a few months on the starting grid of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

"We certainly want to make a statement with this car. It will sit at the very top of our model range and, for now, we have no confirmed plans for any series production model above it, so we understand it must have a specification suiting its position in our hierarchy," BMW M boss Frank van Meel told Autocar.

BMW hasn't revealed what it will show in Geneva. If the report is accurate, we'll find out more details about the M8 concept in the coming months. Look for the production model to arrive shortly after the 8 Series makes it debut later this year.

What's in a name?

The 8 Series nameplate isn't new; BMW used it on a range-topping coupe between 1989 and 1991. The company considered a top-spec M8 model, and it even built a prototype, but executives canned the project due to a perceived lack of demand.Feb 12, 2018, 8:30am ET

Ford to further boost SUV production

The Blue Oval is looking to top GM, boost profits.

Ford is looking to improve its margins and give GM a run for its money with a boost to production of its larger SUVs, the company announced Monday.

The Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator will be the beneficiaries of the production increase, and Ford hopes the boost (targets will go up by 25%, Reuters reports), will take the fight to GM's Suburban and Yukon nameplates.

Global Operations President Joe Hinrichs made the announcement after touring Ford's Kentucky Truck Plant. During the tour, he told local reporters that Ford can sell "[...] every single vehicle [...]" the plant produces.

Big SUVs are not only popular; they're profitable. "These are high-margin vehicles," Hinrichs said. Data provided to Reuters by Ford indicates that transaction prices for Navigator alone have climbed 38% over the past year--a boon for margin.

Ford is matching those new production targets with a fresh marketing onslaught. Last Thursday, the company announced that it would begin ramping up support for both the new Expedition and the subcompact EcoSport--a recent transplant from its European operations.

While the EcoSport may not do much for Ford's profit push, it will serve to increase volume by providing dealers with a new entry in a rapidly growing segment of baby crossovers--a class where Ford has lacked an entry until now.

Ford began selling the EcoSport in January, with deliveries expected to increase significantly as advertising drives buyers to showrooms.A woman charged with impeding her abusive boyfriends prosecution by simulating the suicide of the woman he strangled would have found it difficult to defy him; she had been the victim of a violent crime in childhood and feared he would kill her too.

A psychiatrist gave the evidence to the Central Criminal Court today (Monday) on the fifth day of the mushroom pickers trial.

The 34-year-old Latvian woman is charged with impeding the apprehension or prosecution of the man, knowing or believing him to have murdered her 49-year-old housemate, Antra Ozolina (49), or committed some other arrestable offence.

Its alleged that Egita Jaunmaize, of no fixed abode, placed a blue cord around Ms Ozolinas neck so as to simulate her suicide in order to make it more difficult to establish that her death was suspicious.

The mother of one has pleaded not guilty to carrying out the offence at their home at The Old Post, Main Street, Kilnaleck, Co Cavan on or about June 27 or June 28 2014.

However, she accepts that Ms Ozolinas death was not caused by suicide and does not dispute that her former partner caused it. She told gardai that she was in fear for her life and acting on his orders at the time.

The trial has already heard that he has not been charged. The neo-nazi is currently being spoon fed as a result of a traumatic brain injury sustained months later while fleeing after a car he had hijacked crashed.

The gardai were on the scene immediately and he was rushed to hospital. The accused womans half brother had been driving and was apprehended nearby.

Consultant forensic psychiatrist Dr Ronan Mullaney testified on behalf of the defence yesterday. He had been asked to assess the accused womans personality in the context of an abusive relationship and explain issues relevant to the defence of reasonable excuse.

He said that, at the age of 12, she had been the victim of a violent crime for which one of her attackers had served time in prison.

He told Giollaiosa O Lideadha SC, defending, that victims of such crimes in childhood and adolescence often make poor relationship choices as adults.

There is a blunting in their ability to recognise potential danger in others, he explained.

He said that he was of the opinion that she was suffering from post traumatic stress disorder when he met her. He said that this was most likely related to this childhood experience, along with witnessing her partner strangling her housemate and having her life threatened by him.

He said that her overall life pattern and relationships would indicate that she probably underestimated potential threats. He said she had the potential to be re-victimised, getting into abusive relationships again and again.

Her experience in childhood left her more vulnerable to relationships with controlling, abusive partners, he explained.

He was a dominating, threatening and psychological and physically abusive man, he said, having read a number of statements from people who had witnessed his violence.

She would have limited ability to defy such a person, he said.

When he gets very angry, you look at his face and when hes like that, you sh*t your pants, she had told him.

He was asked about the factors that would lead women to get into abusive relationships.

Any trauma, physical, emotional or sexual, in childhood statistically makes someone more vulnerable to being re-victimised, he said.

He added that early traumatic victimisation created an increased sense of powerlessness and impaired coping mechanism. Those who have been victims tend to remain in abusive relationships, he said.

Under cross examination by Patrick Gageby SC, prosecuting, he agreed that the accused had known that this man had just been released from an eight-year jail sentence in his native Latvia when she met him.

He agreed that she also knew about his neo-nazi and racist ideology, complete with a very large swastika tattooed on his chest.

He gave her to understand he had changed while in prison, said the doctor.

He was asked about what she had told him about initially lying to the gardai and fearing that they wouldnt protect her.

She was quite concerned that he was actually released from custody, replied the doctor.

Homicide rates are recorded by the UN around the world, he added. There are only six countries in which women are more likely to be victims of homicides than men. One of them is Latvia.

The defence has now closed its case. The trial continues before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury of seven men and five women.Fianna Fail TD for Sligo-Leitrim, Eamon Scanlon, has called on the Health Minister to make blood tests for Lyme disease available here in Ireland. The current tests available here have varying degrees of accuracy and samples must be sent abroad for more reliable results.

Deputy Scanlon raised the issue with Minister Simon Harris in the Dail noting: We are witnessing an increase in the number of cases of Lyme disease being diagnosed here in Ireland, but awareness levels and testing methods still remain relatively primitive. This is a very debilitating disease and early detection can make a huge difference to sufferers, however there are serious issues with testing here in Ireland.

Last year I met with one of the support groups, Tick Tock, and they explained the issues with the current testing methods here. At the moment, samples have to be sent abroad in order to secure the most reliable results. This not only takes time, it can be extremely expensive.

I understand that GPs are not fully trained to deal with Lyme disease, but it is crucial that they are brought up to speed on it. The earlier it is detected the faster it can be treated. This would make a huge difference to people living with it. I also find it difficult to understand how there is no facility available in Ireland to accurately test for the disease. We have excellent hospitals and laboratories in this country and it would make more sense for us to carry out the tests here at home rather than having to send samples abroad.

I raised this issue with Minister Harris this week, who confirmed that a study is underway to examine how Ireland is dealing with Lyme disease compared to other countries. I will be following up with the Minister once that study is completed.40 years in the making  Mike Covell, assistant professor emeritus in Southern Illinois University Carbondales cinema and photography program and founder of the Big Muddy Film Festival, holds the inaugural festival program from 1979. The 40th edition of one of the oldest film festivals associated with the university runs Feb. 19-25. (Photo by Russell Bailey)

Students, community involvement pivotal for film festival's four decade run

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Mike Covell always maintained the success of the Big Muddy Film Festival rests with the students who run the annual event and in community support.

As Southern Illinois University Carbondales iconic festival nears its 40th installment Feb. 19-25, the same holds true, according to Covell, who started the festival in 1979 with about 40 films and 800 moviegoers. Looking back, Covell said he could not envision that Big Muddy, as it is known locally, would become one of the oldest film festivals affiliated with a university in the nation.

I didnt think about how long (the festival) would last, Covell said. It was a lot of work, but it was fun. The students were involved and as long as they kept involved and passionate about it, the festival would keep going. Thats what happened.

This years festival features 73 films

The schedule features 73 competitive and non-competitive films in four categories: animation, documentary, experimental and narrative, in addition to juror presentations. Known for strong documentaries that highlight social issues, the festival also provides equally strong offerings in the other three categories. Covell said.

Admission is free for each event, and details about dates, times and locations are available on the Big Muddy Film Festivals website.

Special festival events feature John Michaels Award winner and Best of the Fest

The opening reception is from 6 to 8 p.m., Feb. 19, in Morris Librarys Guyon Auditorium. The festival's 40th birthday party is from 6 to 9 p.m., Feb. 24, also in Guyon Auditorium. The John Michaels Award Showcase is at 2 p.m. Feb. 25, at the Carbondale Public Library, and the Best of the Fest Showcase will be at 5 p.m., Feb. 25, at the Longbranch Cafe & Bakery.

An idea grows into a film festival

Covell came to SIU in 1975 after finishing graduate school at Ohio University, home of the Athens International Film Festival, another student-run event that Covell was involved with. It took three years after Covell arrived at SIU for the first Big Muddy Film Festival. The first meetings and organization work for the festival was in 1978 with the three-day launch in 1979.

The process was not without some hurdles, he said.

While there now is support from the College of Mass Communication and Media Arts and the Department of Cinema and Photography, Covell recalls initial resistance from within the college and some faculty at the time who told him they believed starting a film festival was not a good idea.

Thats typical when a young person comes into a program  and they were resisting change, said Covell, who retired in 2007 and lives outside Alto Pass. But giving the students the boost of letting them run with it was good and there is now positive support.

Former students, festival workers find great success

Some of Covells former students who worked on the film festival while at SIU include Steve James, whose 2016 documentary, Abacus: Small Enough to Jail is among this years nominees for an Academy Award.

Other award-winning filmmakers who worked on past festivals include Joe and Kris Swanberg, Mario Contreras, Tom Ludwig and Academy Award-nominees Edgar Barens, Milcho Manchevski, among others. Ludwig will be on campus as one of the festivals three judges.

Its wonderful to see their successes, Covell said.

Film festival heritage continues

Covell believes the festivals core of showing quality and important work of independent filmmakers continues. With a few exceptions, Covell is not a fan of mainstream cinema and media.

Hollywood is still showing violence, big music, explosions and the difference is in the films we were getting that didnt do that, he said. There were a lot of documentaries about relevant issues at the time that the media wouldnt deal with. This was the place where filmmakers could show those kinds of ideas and observations not necessarily shared. And that has maintained.

Festival is a chance to reaffirm history

Its definitely a time to recognize the history and lineage and the sheer length of time that this festival has existed, which is significant simply because its a student-run, student organized festival with students who may or may not be involved for four years, said Hassan Pitts, the College of Mass Communication and Media Arts technology coordinator and current festival director.

For Kelechi Agwuncha, a senior in cinema who graduates in December, heading the film festival is daunting in that it requires so much of you.

But this is her third year of being involved with the festival, and Agwuncha, who is from Westchester, said her varied experiences were beneficial for learning the intricacies of putting together an event of this size. The festival also provides out-of-class experiences in advertising, marketing, photography, cinema and viewing films, she said.

Theres so much here its almost overwhelming, she said of the festivals history. There is so much there and we are working to present it well. We have been around for 40 years and want the festival to be around for more years to come.

Pitts is in his third year as the festivals executive director. His first year was also the first year for many of the current students involved, so he experienced some of the same feelings Covell did four decades ago.

The majority of the students involved in my first year were brand new. The idea of knowing what a film festival is, but not necessarily knowing what this film festival is was definitely something that needed to be addressed, he said. I can only imagine that first year the same sort of questions applied; What is this, why are we doing this, and what is the benefit and goal that we are trying to achieve?

You have to let them run

The festival centers on student involvement and allowing them to learn, Covell said.

You have to let them run. Its their festival, Covell said. But at the same time you have to be right behind them and walk very carefully and reel them in when something isnt right and pat them on the head when its good, Covell said with a smile.May 1, 2021, 3 AM

Continued growth in the U.S. Postal Services parcel delivery did not fully offset revenue losses from declines in first-class letter mail and advertising mail in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Screen capture from USPS video.

Washington Postal Scene  By Bill McAllister

The same problems that plagued the United States Postal Service last year continued to erode profits in the first quarter of fiscal 2018.

The result was that the Postal Service reported that its controllable income fell to $353 million in the quarter that ended Dec. 31, down from $522 million in the same quarter of fiscal 2017.

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The first quarter typically is the most profitable of the year because it includes holiday mailings, but, on Feb. 9, USPS officials said both first class and advertising mail volumes continued to decline, with single piece first-class letters falling by 5.7 percent and advertising mail by 5.9 percent.

Package mail continued to grow by 6.9 percent in the quarter, but those gains were not strong enough to offset the revenue losses from letters.

When the Postal Service adds in all its mandated costs, the net loss for the first quarter was $540 million compared to a profit of $1.4 billion in the first quarter of fiscal 2017.

Revenues remain flat at $19.2 billion, the same as the first period of fiscal 2017.

Postmaster General Megan J. Brennan used the numbers to argue once again that the agency urgently needs regulatory and legislative changes to raise prices more sharply.

Continuing mail declines that totaled two billion pieces in this quarter place additional financial pressure on us, underscoring the need for change, said Chief Financial Officer Joseph Corbett in a news release.

In a conference call, Corbett disclosed that the Postal Service plans to spend $2 billion this year on capital improvements.

Brennan expressed hope that the Senate would confirm the Trump administrations nomination of three members of the USPS board of governors in time for a scheduled April meeting.

She did not comment on the prospects for new postal legislation, which has been ignored by Congress despite numerous pleas from Postal Service officials.

The U.S. Postal Service board of governors lost its last presidentially appointed member in December 2016. It has operated since then under a temporary emergency committee.Two of the 5,000-year-old "spider stones" unearthed on the Danish island on Bornholm.

Strangely marked stones and other artifacts unearthed on the island of Bornholm in Denmark have raised new mysteries about a Neolithic sun-worshipping religion centered there about 5,000 years ago.

The new finds include "spider stones," inscribed with pattern like a spider's web, and a piece of copper from a time when the metal could not be made by the island's Stone Age inhabitants, say the researchers.

The handful of newfound spider stones look a little like hundreds of inscribed "sun stones" or "solar stones"  solsten in Danish  found since the 1990s amid the remains of an earthen-walled Neolithic enclosure, about 650 feet (200 m) across, at the Vasagard archaeological site on Bornholm in the Baltic Sea, between the southern tip of Sweden and the coast of Poland. [See Images of the Strange Stones Found in Denmark]

The round, hand-sized sun stones are made from a type of local stone that was polished and then deliberately marked, using a second piece of stone, with patterns of radiating lines thought to symbolize the sun.

Hundreds of stones inscribed with patterns thought to represent the sun have been unearthed around the Neolithic enclosure. (Image credit: Michael Thorsen/Bornholm Museum)

Similar radiating patterns have been inscribed or painted on rock at several prehistoric sites around the world.

But the spider stones found last year are inscribed with distinct straight lines running between and across an underlying pattern of radiating lines, giving them the appearance of a spider's web, according to the researchers.

Spider stones

Archaeologists have found only about half a dozen of the so-called spider stones among the several hundred sun stones at the Vasagard site, which archaeologists think was a ceremonial center for Neolithic sun-worshippers.

In his research, Finn Ole Nielsen, the director of Bornholm Museum, could find just a single symbolic use of spider webs in Europe, painted on the ceiling of a Medieval church in France, where it's thought to symbolize heaven or the transition between life and death.

Archaeologists found sacrificial offerings of grain and stone tools in the remains of round timber structures at the site. (Image credit: Michael Thorsen/Bornholm Museum)

But archaeologists would never know for certain what the original meaning was for the people who inscribed the patterns 5,000 years ago, Nielsen said.

In 2016, scientists found fragments of about 10 roughly rectangular "map stones" or "field stones" during excavations at the western end of the Vasagard site; these may be the earliest known examples of symbolic maps of land, they said.

Archaeologist Fleming Kaul of the National Museum of Denmark told Live Science that the map stones might have been used in a religious ceremony to bless the farmland of a family or community with good weather for crops.

Mysterious structures

Archaeologists have also excavated the remains of several round timber structures, some more than 30 feet (9 m) across, that have been found at different places around the main earthen-walled enclosure at Vasagard. [7 Bizarre Ancient Cultures That History Forgot]

In the remains of the largest timber structure, excavated last year, they found a 1.6-inch-long (4 centimeters) piece of copper, dating from a time when the local Stone Age people were not thought to have access to that metal.

The fragment was probably part of an imported copper axe buried as a sacrifice, archaeologist Michael Thorsen of Bornholm Museum told Live Science.

The offerings found in the post holes of the round timber structures included Neolithic stone arrowheads and axes. (Image credit: Michael Thorsen/Bornholm Museum)

Because copper couldn't be made locally at that time, the original copper object must have travelled or been traded as a prestige item over a long distance, from the Mediterranean or the Balkans, before it was finally offered as a ritual sacrifice on Bornholm, he said.

Thorsen said the elaborate construction of the largest timber structure, which was built around 10 wooden posts measuring more than 1.5 feet (0.5 m) in diameter, showed it was not a normal habitation.

"I think the most obvious function is some kind of religious building," he said, adding that it was possibly a spirit house used in shamanic rituals, or as an enclosure for housing the bodies of the dead during funeral ceremonies.

After being used for its unknown purpose, the timber structure was ceremonially demolished, and the post holes filled with sacrificial objects, including burned grain and burned stone axes, he said: it was in one of these post holes that the copper fragment was found.

"This copper must have come a very long way," Thorsen said. "For me, it just makes the structure even more important, because they were offering a rare piece of copper like this."

Original article on Live Science.A woman in Oregon was infected with a type of eye worm never before seen in people. Above, an image of the woman's eye, with the parasitic worm (<em>Thelazia gulosa</em>) circled.

It's certainly horrifying to discover small translucent worms squirming through your eyeballs. But what if those worms have never been found in human eyes before?

That's what happened to a 26-year-old woman in Oregon who thought she felt something in her eye  and that something turned out be a parasitic eye worm that previously had been known to infect only cattle, according to a new report from researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The case, published today (Feb. 12) in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, marks the first time that this species of eye worm, called Thelazia gulosa, has been seen in humans, the researchers said. ['Eye' Can't Look: 9 Eyeball Injuries That Will Make You Squirm]

"Cases of eye worm parasitic infections are rare in the USA, and this case turned out to be a species of the Thelazia that had never been reported in humans," Richard Bradbury, lead author of the report and a researcher at the CDC's Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, said in a statement. "Previously, it was thought that there were only two different species of these [Thelazia] eye worms that infected humans worldwide. Now, we have to add Thelazia gulosa, a third one, to the list," Bradbury said.

Thelazia eye worms are found in a number of animals, including cats, dogs, foxes and cattle; but they don't usually infect people. The worms are transmitted by different types of flies that feed on tears, the researchers said.

In the new case, which occurred in August 2016, the woman first reported feeling like there was something in her eye. A week later, she pulled a small worm out of her eyeball.

An image of the eye worm Thelazia gulosa immediately after removal from the eye. (Image credit: CDC)

The women went to see several doctors, including an optometrist and an infectious disease specialist; and over the next 20 days, 14 more worms were removed from her eye. The worms were less than half an inch long (1.3 centimeters), and were found in the conjunctiva, or the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye.

In some cases, doctors use an anti-parasitic drug called Ivermectin to treat eye worms. In the woman's case, however, she didn't need the drug because her infection went away after the worms were removed, and she didn't have any more symptoms, the researchers said.

Eye worm infections are more typically seen in older adults and young children, who may be less able to keep flies away from their faces, the researchers said.

The researchers suspect the woman got the infection when she was exposed to face flies (Musca autumnalis) while horseback riding and fishing along the coast of Oregon, in a region where cattle farming is common.

Bradbury said this case doesn't mean that T. gulosa is now more likely to infect humans than before. "This is almost certainly just an unfortunate, random, event," Bradbury told Live Science in an email. It's possible that T. gulosa has infected people before, but it was misidentified as another species of eye worm, he said.

People usually recover from eye worm infections after the worms are removed, but in some cases, the infection can cause scarring of the cornea and even blindness if the worms migrate across the surface of the eye, the researchers said.

Several worms that were removed from the Oregon patient were sent to a CDC laboratory, where they were identified as cattle eye worms. The researchers initially thought the infection was caused by a type of worm called Thelazia californiensis, because this was the only species of eye worm known to infect humans in the U.S.

"It was only after we looked more carefully that we realized some differences in anatomy that meant it could not be T. californiensis," Bradbury said. "We had to go back to papers published in German back in 1928 to help identify this worm as Thelazia gulosa," he said.

Original article on Live Science."Black Panther," an adaptation of the iconic comic book that has been decades in coming, proves to be more than worth the wait. This lush, impressively well-acted film, about an African king learning how best to marshal the superpowers with which he's been endowed, comes draped in anticipation, not only from hardcore fans of the source material, but filmgoers already steeped in breathless hype. Director Ryan Coogler, working with a script he co-wrote with Joe Robert Cole, doesn't just meet but exceeds those expectations, delivering a film that fulfills the most rote demands of superhero spectacle, yet does so with style and subtexts that feel bracingly, joyfully groundbreaking.

Chadwick Boseman, until now best known for channeling the likes of Jackie Robinson, James Brown and Thurgood Marshall, comes masterfully into his own here as T'Challa, crown prince of the mystical kingdom of Wakanda, who assumes the throne when his father is killed while giving a speech at the United Nations. After an elaborate initiation ritual, T'Challa is tasked with hunting down an evil arms merchant named Ulysses Klaue (Andy Serkis), who has stolen a Wakandan artifact made of the precious metal vibranium. Outfitted with adhesive footwear, a fearsome feline mask and a suit that can absorb and redirect power, invented by his techno-genius sister Shuri (Letitia Wright), T'Challa sets off for South Korea with his allies, General Okoye (Danai Gurira) and Nakia (Lupita Nyong'o), an accomplished operative who also happens to be T'Challa's ex-girlfriend.

That game, once it's afoot, is plenty entertaining, even if it never veers beyond the most conventional contours of modern-day movie action. In a recent interview that went viral, the music producer Quincy Jones noted that most rap music is "just loops, beats, rhymes and hooks." The same formula applies to the comic book movies that, at their most uninspired, feel like thinly cobbled-together series of battles royal, windy expository encounters, spatially challenged chase scenes and epic standoffs.

The difference with "Black Panther" is that, while observing the outlines of the traditional comic book arc, Coogler and his creative team have enlarged and revitalized it. Drawing on elements from African history and tribal culture, as well as contemporary and forward-looking flourishes, "Black Panther" pulses with color, vibrancy and layered textural beauty, from the beadwork and textiles of Ruth Carter's spectacular costumes and Hannah Beachler's warm, dazzlingly eye-catching production design to hairstyles, tattoos and scarifications that feel both ancient and novel.

Although that universe might not seem to need yet another origin story, this one possesses urgency and genuine propulsive interest most others lack. Once T'Challa's true challenge is revealed, "Black Panther" becomes something deeper than the mere formation of one superhero, engaging such subjects as: the legacy of colonialism; collective memory and interior geography; the tension between autonomy and social conscience; and the need for solidarity within an African diaspora at political and cultural odds with itself.

Make no mistake: Coogler doesn't use "Black Panther" as an awkward delivery system for such Deep Ideas. Rather, he weaves them in organically and subtly. "Black Panther" is great fun to watch and shot through with delicate threads of lighthearted humor, mostly delivered from Wright's cheeky, sarcastic whiz kid and Martin Freeman, who shows up midway through the film as an earnest if unlikely ally.

Gracefully photographed with a gratifying un-frenetic touch by Rachel Morrison (nominated for an Oscar for her marvelous work on "Mudbound"), "Black Panther" succeeds far beyond Coogler's directorial chops (which are prodigious), striking visual design and thematic depth. As a showcase for many of the finest actors working today, it proves how essential performance is, even in movies that on their surface demand little more than fitting into a latex suit and affecting a convincing grimace.

Boseman, who strides through "Black Panther" with unforced, charismatic ease, assumes almost Shakespearean levels of doubt as his character is challenged by an unexpected rival. Nyong'o, Wright, Sterling K. Brown and Daniel Kaluuya bring poetry and gravitas to roles that transcend mere support. Michael B. Jordan, who broke out in Coogler's debut film "Fruitvale Station," brings scrappy, street-smart volatility to his performance as a character with whom T'Challa has a karmic connection, and Gurira steals every scene she's in as an indomitable warrior trained in the art of spearcraft.

It's these actors - their faces, their commitment, their attention to craft and detail - that elevate "Black Panther" to stirring heights, whether they're surfing on top of speeding cars through the colorfully lit streets of Busan, arguing against the backdrop of a teeming, futuristic city or communing with their deceased elders on the ancestral plane. And, as they dominate the screen in a movie rooted firmly in their own history and narratives, they provide an exhilarating, regal rebuke to the chronic absence and denigration of black bodies in American cinema. "Black Panther" may be grounded in the loops, beats, rhymes and hooks of contemporary film grammar, but it feels like a whole new language.

- - -

Four stars. Rated PG-13. Contains prolonged sequences of action violence and a brief rude gesture. 140 minutes.

Ratings Guide: Four stars masterpiece, three stars very good, two stars OK, one star poor, no stars waste of time.Farewell to the Horse

By Ulrich Raulff. Translated from the German by Ruth Ahmedzai Kemp

Liveright. 449 pp. $35

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One animal was so decisive in shaping human history that the eminent historian Reinhart Koselleck proposed it as the sole organizing principle in a schema outlining the world's three great epochs. These three ages, he believed, should be called pre-horse, horse and post-horse. The middle era lasted some 6,000 years. Transition to the post-horse period dates to the mid-20th century. In "Farewell to the Horse," Ulrich Raulff has composed nothing less than a requiem Mass for this long-suffering, noble creature - a complex and lyrical argument that places the horse in a central role in the creation of the modern world. In his excavations of the 150-year period that makes up this long farewell, the author discovered something marvelous: "Horses had more meanings than bones."

Radical change took shape when humans began to borrow - or rather, take by force - the horse's speed and power. Raulff notes that the horse was a significant force in shaping history in large measure because a much smaller creature - man - harnessed and exploited its powerful capabilities. By asserting dominion over the horse - and thereby distant lands and peoples - humans galloped into the politics of conquest.

Today horses are merely "the ghosts of modernity," Raulff writes. But in the 19th century they "enjoyed a colossal literary and iconographic career." Raulff takes us through the stupendous cultural shift from agraian life to urbanized industrialization to the actual and symbolic roles of the horse in war and science and art. He shows that beyond pulling carriages, carts and artillery caissons, horses propelled science into a new age as a crucial subject in the study of anatomy, genealogy and locomotion. With its contributions to increased production, improved transport and communication, and border crossings, the horse was "an outstanding agent of modernization." In his searching examination of the horse's symbolic significance, Raulff illustrates how the animal represented notions of victory, sovereignty, wealth, death and nobility.

But under the yoke of humans, horses have suffered. The poet and playwright Friedrich Schiller summed up the plight of Parisian horses in a line of an unfinished play he left behind after his death in 1805: "Paris is paradise for women, purgatory for men, hell for horses." Horses fared no better in war. While 600,000 men lost their lives in the Civil War, some 1.5 million horses and mules also perished. Fighting the cavalry meant aiming a death shot at its largest target. In World War I, as Raulff writes, "by the final climax of the fighting on the Western Front in August 1918, the life expectancy of an artillery horse on the front was ten days."

Peacetime was not very kind to horses, either. At the turn of the 20th century some 130,000 horses were at work on any given day in New York City, and 20 of them died daily. Raulff appropriately draws on a man whose name is synonymous with cruelty in an early anecdote. In January 1766, the police investigated an incident in Paris at the edge of the Place des Victoires involving a cab driver, his horse and an elegant aristocrat. The aristocrat had become enraged when the cab blocked his carriage, and in response, he had beaten the horse with his sword and stabbed it in the abdomen. "The signature on the ensuing legal document was that of an irascible character," Raulff writes, "the Marquis de Sade."

Today the horse is a creature from a lost pastoral myth. We commune with its spirit through literature and art, in the works of Flaubert, Tolstoy, Hardy, Kafka, Rosa Bonheur, George Stubbs and Edgar Degas. Raulff has given us an eloquent epitaph for the horse's long relevance to our world.

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Pierson is the author of "Dark Horses and Black Beauties," among other books.Buzz: A Stimulating History of the Sex Toy

By Hallie Lieberman

Pegasus. 384 pp. $26.95

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Powerful men have done a lot of vile things in the workplace. But of all the stories that have recently emerged, the one that really irritates Hallie Lieberman is the accusation that former "Today" show host Matt Lauer once gave his colleague a sex toy with a note about wanting to use it on her.

Lieberman has devoted her career to the study of sex toys and their positive impact on people's lives. It's a subject she discusses at length in her recently published book, "Buzz."

Vibrators and other sex toys can help people get more comfortable with their bodies and achieve pleasure, Lieberman says, and that's a wonderful thing - in one's personal life. "I'm a big fan of sending sex toys as gifts," she said in a phone interview from her home in Atlanta. "But don't send them to your employee."

The same advice probably holds for Lieberman's book, which is based on her doctoral dissertation for the University of Wisconsin and picks up the subject a very, very long time ago.

"Before humans invented writing or the wheel, we had invented dildos," notes Lieberman, who explains that archaeologists have discovered phallic-shaped objects dating back to the Ice Age. In a chapter surveying about 30,000 years, Lieberman points out that dildos appear in paintings in ancient Egypt, in several works by Greek dramatist Aristophanes and in the advice-packed pages of the Kama Sutra. In the 17th century, they appeared in British poetry and Japanese woodblock prints. Among the archives of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, where Lieberman was a fellow several years ago, she found an early 20th-century device for inducing male pleasure.

Despite this lengthy heritage, sex toys have managed to stay relatively under cover(s). This taboo is what first attracted Lieberman to the subject. The preface of "Buzz" recounts a family vacation when she was 10 years old and discovered an odd zippered pouch in the hotel dresser. She showed off the "pencil sharpener" to her parents, who immediately took it away and demanded she wash her hands.

The memory lingered with Lieberman during her formative years in the 1990s in Florida. One day, the then-16-year-old Lieberman took a peek inside a store called Adult Fun, which beckoned with its blacked-out windows from a seedy strip mall. Inside, she gaped at a wall of erotic merchandise, shelves of publications with unprintable titles - and an employee from her school district.

Lieberman was baffled as much as she was intrigued. "Wasn't sex supposed to just work?" she wondered. Why would anyone need to spend money on extra stuff? Nevertheless, Lieberman decided not to walk out empty-handed.

Her fascination lingered, less a prurient interest than an academic one. As a graduate student in advertising at the University of Texas at Austin in the early 2000s, Lieberman became a sales rep for a company that threw Tupperware-like parties at customers' homes. Except instead of selling nifty plasticware, they hawked sex toys. But there was one big problem: Selling these items in Texas was illegal. To avoid arrest and fines, Lieberman had to stick with code lingo and say that the products were sold strictly for "artistic, educational and scientific purposes."

The situation struck Lieberman as bizarre, which is why she started digging into how that law ended up on the books. Before long, she was researching the rise of vice crusaders and the government's role in regulating sex toys, as well as the development of key sex-toy technologies, including rubber vulcanization and electricity.

Initially, her plan for "Buzz" was to offer an in-depth examination of objects, not people, Lieberman says. But readers will find that the majority of her book is dedicated to a colorful cast of characters who have shaped the sex-toy industry in America since the 1950s.

One of Lieberman's favorites is Ted Marche, a ventriloquist who, as she puts it, "went from a dummy to dildos." Marche was also an engineer, and in the mid-'60s, wanted to build a device that would help impotent men. It was a risky venture in pre-sexual revolution times, but Marche found that demand for his "marital-aid" device was high. By 1976, Marche had sold nearly 5 million of them; he also donated artificial penises to children's hospitals, where they were used to treat young boys with abnormal genitals.

If Marche was the angel of the sex-toy scene, the devil was Reuben Sturman, whose rise to dominance in the industry involved shady Swiss bank accounts, extortion and even a plot to scare rivals with bombs.

Most of Lieberman's attention, however, is on people who embrace these devices as part of larger cultural movements. "These people wanted to change the world and used sex toys to do it," she says.

There's Gosnell Duncan, a paraplegic who began crafting sex toys to cater to other people with disabilities. (He also pioneered the use of body-safe silicone rubber.) Duane Colglazier, the co-founder of the Pleasure Chest chain of stores, launched a gay-oriented business during a time when homosexuality was a crime.

And Betty Dodson, a personal hero to Lieberman, tirelessly advocated for masturbation - and vibrators - among feminists. It wasn't always a popular idea with the group's leaders, who worried about the optics of prioritizing pleasure. The idea that women can take control of their sexuality, "it was radical," Lieberman says. "It still is radical."

---

Hallett, a former Washington Post columnist, is a freelance writer in Florence, Italy.The Kremlin's Candidate: The Red Sparrow Trilogy

By Jason Matthews

Scribner. 434 pp. $26.99

---

Jason Matthews has found a formula that is making him one of America's most readable spy novelists: To animate the James Bond staples of seduction and violence, he has added touches of the meticulous tradecraft he learned in his 33 years as a CIA operations officer. The sex scenes in his books are good, but the surveillance-detection runs are sublime.

"The Kremlin's Candidate" is Matthews's latest offering, and it doesn't disappoint. Although the title reads like the caption crawl below a CNN report on Donald Trump and the Russians, the book wisely doesn't mimic the preposterous plotlines of real life. Instead, it's a traditional espionage story of dueling moles within U.S. and Russian intelligence. The Kremlin's friend in Matthews' version is bidding to run only the CIA, not the White House.

This is Matthews' third novel featuring Dominika Egorova, the Russian superspy who began her career as a trained seductress, as described in his superb debut novel, "Red Sparrow." She's sort of a Russian Barbie doll on steroids, who can seduce, kickbox and plot geostrategy all at the same time. And if that's not enough, she's also a "synesthete," which means that she can see what people are thinking as colors emanating from them.

Dominika may sound implausible, but through three novels I've found her a thoroughly enjoyable character who's convincing on the page. She's a female Bond in the sack, but if you're a spy-novel fan, it's her skill at SRAC (short-range agent communications) that keeps you reading. It will be interesting to see what Jennifer Lawrence does with Dominika when the movie version of "Red Sparrow" premieres next month.

In "The Kremlin's Candidate," as in its two predecessors, Dominika is matched with her CIA handler (and, inevitably, her lover), Nate Nash. He's a bit of a cartoon character, too, who speaks Russian like a native, fights like a killing machine and is also a really sensitive guy. Matthews knows he's writing popular fiction, meant to entertain, but his characters are saved from ridiculousness by the fact that they understand the real-life business of espionage as well as Matthews evidently did in his decades as a CIA case officer.

This book feels longer and talkier than the first two, and the plot is more convoluted, bouncing from Moscow and Washington to Greece, New York, Khartoum, Macao and Hong Kong. North Korean and Chinese spies are woven through the story, in addition to Russians and Americans, and there are a few more loops and switchbacks on the roller coaster than a purist might like. But the momentum is sustained, and the reader acquires some awesome Chinese tradecraft as well as some memorably vulgar Australian slang.

Matthews is obviously having fun as he writes. He evokes a CIA run by crusty old WASPS with names like Benford, Gable and Forsyth, interlaced with brown-nosing bureaucrats and cowardly station chiefs. He loves the blue-collar side of the CIA, the techs who crack the locks and plant the bugs. Continuing an amusing conceit he began in his first book, he ends each chapter with the recipe for a dish that a character has eaten in the preceding pages. This culinary tradecraft remains impressive, but it may be a tad overcooked.

Faithful to the case-officer clan, Matthews saves some of his most venomous descriptions for a CIA-hating female member of the Senate Intelligence Committee ("Sen. Feigenbaum") and her "mealy-worm" staff director. Those references will get some knowing nods at Langley.

What undergirds Matthews's sometimes fanciful plot and characters is his attention to detail. He knows the Russian slang for "honey trap" and "orgasm." He uses European bra sizes to describe the undergarments of his heroine, and he explains problems with Russian condoms. He drops the name that GRU operatives use for their headquarters ("the Aquarium") and Putin's nickname at the KGB ("the Pale Moth"). In the Macao and Hong Kong scenes, it's the same thing, with Matthews dispensing Chinese espionage doctrine (BEGIN ITAL)in Chinese(END ITAL). These foreign phrases are meant to add verisimilitude to his yarn, and generally they do.

Matthews should lighten up on the spurious details, though. There are too many brand names - for suits, shirts, ties, watches, guns, holsters, even fishing rods. At a certain point, these names stop conveying authenticity and read like product placements. Big breasts are a spy-novel convention, too, but I wonder if all three of Nate's lovers had to be quite so top-heavy.

Matthews' most interesting challenge is a character named "Vladimir Putin." We'll never know whether the description of this "fictitious" Russian president's lovemaking is accurate, thank goodness. But this is a book that convinces us - with a wink - that it gets such details right.Black Americans mostly left behind by progress since Dr. Kings death

A UF minority politics scholar explains how African-Americans, by most measures, remain worse off than white people a half-century after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

How much has really improved for black people in the U.S. since 1968? Ted Eytan, CC BY-SA

Sharon Austin, University of Florida

On Apr. 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, while assisting striking sanitation workers.

That was almost 50 years ago. Back then, the wholesale racial integration required by the 1964 Civil Rights Act was just beginning to chip away at discrimination in education, jobs and public facilities. Black voters had only obtained legal protections two years earlier, and the 1968 Fair Housing Act was about to become law.

African-Americans were only beginning to move into neighborhoods, colleges and careers once reserved for whites only.

Im too young to remember those days. But hearing my parents talk about the late 1960s, it sounds in some ways like another world. Numerous African-Americans now hold positions of power, from mayor to governor to corporate chief executive  and, yes, once upon a time, president. The U.S. is a very different place than it was 50 years ago.

Or is it? As a scholar of minority politics, I know that while some things have improved markedly for black Americans since 1968, today we are still fighting many of the same battles as Dr. King did in his day.

That was then

The 1960s were tumultuous years indeed. During the long, hot summers from 1965 to 1968, American cities saw approximately 150 race riots and other uprisings. The protests were a sign of profound citizen anger about a nation that was, according to the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, moving toward two societies, one black, one white  separate and unequal.

Economically, that was certainly true. In 1968, just 10 percent of whites lived below the poverty level, while nearly 34 percent of African-Americans did. Likewise, just 2.6 percent of white job seekers were unemployed, compared to 6.7 percent of black job seekers.

AP Photo/Bob Daugherty

A year before his death, Dr. King and others began organizing a Poor Peoples Campaign to dramatize the plight of Americas poor of all races and make very clear that they are sick and tired of waiting for a better life.

On May 28, 1968, one month after Kings assassination, the mass anti-poverty march took place. Individuals from across the nation erected a tent city on the National Mall, in Washington, calling it Resurrection City. The aim was to bring attention to the problems associated with poverty.

Ralph Abernathy, an African-American minister, led the way in his fallen friends place.

We come with an appeal to open the doors of America to the almost 50 million Americans who have not been given a fair share of Americas wealth and opportunity, Abernathy said, and we will stay until we get it.

This is now

So, how far have black people progressed since 1968? Have we gotten our fair share yet? Those questions have been on my mind a lot this month.

In some ways, weve barely budged as a people. Poverty is still too common in the U.S. In 1968, 25 million Americans  roughly 13 percent of the population  lived below poverty level. In 2016, 43.1 million  or more than 12.7 percent  do.

Todays black poverty rate of 22 percent is almost three times that of whites. Compared to the 1968 rate of 32 percent, theres not been a huge improvement.

Financial security, too, still differs dramatically by race. Black households earn $57.30 for every $100 in income earned by white families. And for every $100 in white family wealth, black families hold just $5.04.

Another troubling aspect about black social progress  or should I say the lack thereof  is how many black families are headed by single women. In the 1960s, unmarried women were the main breadwinners for 20 percent of households. In recent years, the percentage has risen as high as 72 percent.

This is important, but not because of some outmoded sexist ideal of the family. In the U.S., as across the Americas, theres a powerful connection between poverty and female-headed households.

Black Americans today are also more dependent on government aid than they were in 1968. Currently, almost 40 percent of African-Americans are poor enough to qualify for welfare, housing assistance and other government programs that offer modest support to families living under the poverty line.

Thats higher than any other U.S. racial group. Just 21 percent of Latinos, 18 percent Asian-Americans and 17 percent of whites are on welfare.

Finding the bright spots

There are, of course, positive trends. Today, far more African-Americans graduate from college  38 percent  than they did 50 years ago.

Our incomes are also way up. Black adults experienced a more significant income increase from 1980 to 2016  from $28,667 to $39,490  than any other U.S. demographic group. This, in part, is why theres now a significant black middle class.

Legally, African-Americans may live in any community they want  and from Beverly Hills to the Upper East Side, they can and do.

But why arent those gains deeper and more widespread?

Some prominent thinkers  including the award-winning writer Ta-Nehisi Coates and The New Jim Crow author Michelle Alexander  put the onus on institutional racism. Coates argues, among other things, that racism has so held back African-Americans throughout history that we deserve reparations, resurfacing a claim with a long history in black activism.

Alexander, for her part, has famously said that racial profiling and the mass incarceration of African-Americans are just modern-day forms of the legal, institutionalized racism that once ruled across the American South.

More conservative thinkers may hold black people solely accountable for their problems. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson is in this personal responsibility camp, along with public intellectuals like Thomas Sowell and Larry Elder.

Depending on who you ask, then, black people arent much better off than in 1968 because either theres not enough government help or theres way too much.

United States Information Agency

What would MLK do?

I dont have to wonder what Dr. King would recommend. He believed in institutional racism.

In 1968, King and the Southern Christian Leadership Council sought to tackle inequality with the Economic Bill of Rights. This was not a legislative proposal, per se, but a moral vision of a just America where all citizens had educational opportunities, a home, access to land, a meaningful job at a living wage and a secure and adequate income.

To achieve that, King wrote, the U.S. government should create an initiative to abolish unemployment, by developing incentives to increase the number of jobs for black Americans. He also recommended another program to supplement the income of those whose earnings are below the poverty level.

Those ideas were revolutionary in 1968. Today, they seem prescient. Kings notion that all citizens need a living wage portends the universal basic income concept now gaining traction worldwide.

Kings rhetoric and ideology are also obvious influences on Sen. Bernie Sanders, who in the 2016 presidential primaries advocated equality for all people, economic incentives for working families, improved schools, greater access to higher education and for anti-poverty initiatives.

Progress has been made. Just not as much as many of us would like. To put it in Dr. Kings words, Lord, we aint what we oughta be. We aint what we want to be. We aint what we gonna be. But, thank God, we aint what we was.

Sharon Austin, Associate Professor of Political Science and Director of African American Studies, University of Florida

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.VIP tickets to the upcoming Botanica Music Festival will include bites from some of the best chefs of San Antonio and Austin and a few points beyond.

More than 20 chefs have signed on to create dishes for the inaugural event inside the VIP Village, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. March 3 at Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

The idea was to get the best chefs to offer food that doesnt just represent San Antonio, but covers tastes from the entire state, said Diego Galicia, who is partnering with his Mixtli co-owner Rico Torres as a culinary ambassador for the festival.

The lineup is still tentative, but local chefs expected to participate include: Esaul Ramos and Joe Melig (2M BBQ), Lisa Astorga Watel (Bite), Stefan Bowers (Battalion, Rebelle, Feast), Luis Colon (Bexar Pub), Tatu Herrera (Tatu's Food Debauchery), Geronimo Lopez (Botika), Jason Dady (Jason Dady Resaurant Group), Marco Cardel (Mila Coffee), Ming Quiang (Mings Things), Jeff Balfour (Southerleigh), Tim McDiarmid (The Good Kind) and Emiliano Marentes (The Hoppy Monk).

Chefs from outside San Antonio expected to cook include Dallas Junior Borges and Josh Sutcliff (Mirador), El Pasos Norberto Portillo (Tabla) and several out of Austin including Kevin Fink (Emmer & Rye), Sarah Heard (Foreign and Domestic), Rick Lopez (La Condesa) and Nic Yanez (Juniper).

Since Galicia and Torres will be busy with other festival functions, the Mixtli brand will be represented by kitchen colleagues Alexana Cabrera and Cassie Ramsey.

We are definitely looking at the food as a way to elevate the experience, Galicia said. We want guests to see the value of a ticket by providing the type of food that is above and beyond the corn dogs and chicken on a stick that you would traditionally find at this type of an event.

Local bar entrepreneur Jeret Pena (The Brooklynite, The Last Word, Still Golden) will serve as the beverage ambassador. Hell design a list of craft cocktails for the VIP Village, and a selection of his drinks will also be available at beverage retail locations throughout the Fiesta Texas grounds.

There also will be a food truck park available to the general public, with trucks such as B Daddys BBQ, Chelas Mexican, La Maceta Tacos, Shake Shack, Slider Provider and Slime Dogs represented.

On the music side of things, more than 20 acts are schedule to perform scattered throughout the multiple stages on the event grounds.

VIP tickets range from $174.00 (early bird pricing) to $184.99 and includes parking and park admission. Fiesta Texas season pass holders can get tickets for $139.99 and children ages three to 11 can get in for $99.99. For tickets and additional information, go to Botanicamusicfestival.com.

NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect more recent lineup changes and to correct the name of Junior Borges and Josh Sutcliffs Dallas restaurant.

cblount@express-news.net | Twitter: @chuck_blount | Instagram: bbqdiverThe FBI is asking for the public's help in locating a woman they believe has information regarding an alleged kidnapping-for-ransom scheme in Laredo.

FBI officials investigating the kidnappings of several undocumented immigrants in the Laredo area say Brittany Pena, 22, may have information about the kidnappings, according to a news release.

READ ALSO: 3 Texas teen girls missing since New Year's Eve, may be together

The FBI provided a description of Pena and photos of her, but did not explain how she was connected to the investigation.

Officials with the U.S. Border Patrol's Missing Migrant Program alerted the FBI on Thursday of the kidnappings and ransom scheme.

Special Agent Michelle Lee said the FBI is not releasing the exact number of individuals who have been taken, but that there are multiple victims. She added there may be others whom officials do not know about.

The release states that the victims have been threatened with weapons and have been given little food.

At least three individuals are involved in the kidnappings, according to the news release. The families of the victims have been contacted by the kidnappers with demands for ransom, officials said.

READ ALSO: Laredo doubles other Texas border towns in murder rate, FBI data show

Pena was not named as one of those three individuals.

She is from Laredo and was last seen in the Gateway City, but officials would not say when.

"It's possible she can be anywhere in the South Texas area, or anywhere in Texas," Lee said. "And so we're trying to cast a pretty wide net here."

In addition to the FBI and Border Patrol, local Laredo law enforcement, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agents and Texas Rangers are assisting the investigation.

Anyone with information on Pena or the kidnappings should contact the FBI at 210-225-6741.

Tips may be submitted online at https://tips.fbi.gov.Q: What's the deal with all those "I Love NY" signs on state roadways?

From what I understand, Gov. Cuomo spent millions of taxpayer dollars to put them up all around the state, and now they have to come down because they were installed illegally.

Is that the case?

 John Miller, Albany

A: It depends on whom you ask.

New York spent more than $8 million to create and install the hundreds of "I Love NY" tourism signs in recent years along New York's highways.

When federal officials told Gov. Andrew Cuomo to remove the signs because they were deemed unsafe, he initially refused.

New York state Department of Transportation officials maintained that the signs were safe and vowed to work with the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration on a resolution of the issue.

The FHA sent a letter earlier this month to New York transportation officials saying the state stood to lose $14 million in federal funding for failing to remove the 500-plus signs.

It was announced soon after that the signs would come down, with new ones to be installed this summer.

More Information Hot spots What to watch for this week: Route 396, Selkirk: Between Speeder and Pictuay roads, traffic is reduced to a single alternating lane controlled by traffic signals for a culvert repair. Oak Street Bridge, Schenectady: Closed to pedestrians through March 30 while rehabilitation and repairs on the bridge are completed. See More Collapse

State officials said they will consult with the federal government on designs, but stopped short of admitting defeat.

"As the current campaign and signs are entering their fifth year, this message has run its useful course and we already plan to launch a new 'I Love NY' campaign this summer," according to a joint statement issued by state Department of Transportation Commissioner Paul Karas and Thruway director Matthew Driscoll.

The new campaign will have a "NY has it all!" theme.

Do you have a question about transportation? Email gettingthere@timesunion.com. Please include your name, town and telephone number.The Laredo Police Department has arrested three people in connection with what authorities are calling a car theft ring with ties to cartels. One suspect remains at large.

The alleged four-man operation assisted in stealing cars from the Laredo-area and San Antonio, according to a news release. The stolen cars were then handed over to Mexican cartels, LPD said in the release.The pleasures of Francois Ozons Double Lover are entirely on the order of Wow. He actually did that. The first example of this is the movies very first shot: The screen is filled with a mysterious landscape of human viscera. And then the shot pulls back, and we realize that we have been looking at a vagina as seen through a speculum.

Then Ozon tops this. The vagina turns into an eye  the eye of young Chloe (Marine Vacth), who has gone to the doctor because her stomach keeps hurting. The gynecologist tells her the same thing that every specialist has told her, that her problem is probably psychological. So her next stop is at a psychiatrists office, and thats were our story begins.

Based on Joyce Carol Oates short novel The Lives of the Twins, Double Lover was directed and co-written by Ozon, a French filmmaker who even at his worst is interesting and at his best is something more. His previous film, Frantz, for example, was moving and subtle and one of his finest achievements. Double Lover, however, just stays in the realm of interesting. Its amusing to see what Ozon is up to, but the central character and her problems remain simply matters of curiosity mixed with indifference.

Chloe is 25, unemployed and has depression and anxiety. She goes to Paul (Jeremie Renier), a psychiatrist, who listens to the story of her life, and something happens to him that emphatically does not happen to the audience. He falls in love with her. Chloe gets a job in a museum and declares herself cured, and he ends their therapy and starts a relationship with her. They move in together.

And that is one of the last things to happen in Double Lover that we can say for sure actually happens. Much of what follows depicts events that may or may not be taking place in Chloes imagination. Or to be more specific, some of the events presented are entirely imaginary, some are partly imaginary, and some are probably real.

All this was undoubtedly quite interesting for Ozon to work out, but the practical effect is one of distance, that of a very French intellectual exercise that assumes we care more than we do about whats real and what isnt. Part of the problem is that Ozon gives Vacth more than she can carry. He accepts on faith that Chloe and the actress playing her possess some inherent fascination, but Vacth isnt Greta Garbo. You cant just put a camera on her and expect the audience to become hypnotized. Left with nothing but the question of whether Chloe is nuts, a little nuts or not nuts, the innermost response for most viewers will be a quiet Who cares?

Still, Ozon is never one to take his audience for granted, and so he keeps coming up with ways to jolt viewers, and some of those ways are inventive and audacious. For example, Chloe goes to visit an invalid her own age, and the young womans mother  played by Jacqueline Bisset  seems reasonable, polite and middle-class. And then theres an odd shift, and Bisset turns on Chloe viciously. That vicious turn is beautifully executed by Bisset and is probably her reason for taking a featured role in the first place.

So there you have it. Voila, the new Ozon. As was the case with Claude Chabrol and remains the case with Woody Allen, theres usually one a year, so if you dont like this one, youll probably like the next one. And in the meantime, we have Ozon doing his Ozon thing, and thats not bad.

Mick LaSalle is The San Francisco Chronicles movie critic. Email: mlasalle@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @MickLaSalle

Double Lover

Drama. Starring Marine Vacth and Jeremie Renier. Directed by Francois Ozon. In French with English subtitles. (Unrated. 107 minutes.)WASHINGTON  With the unveiling Monday at the National Portrait Gallery of the official presidential likenesses of Barack Obama and the former first lady, Michelle Obama, this city of myriad monuments gets a couple of new ones, each radiating, in its different way, gravitas (his) and glam (hers).

Ordinarily, the event would pass barely noticed in the worlds of politics and art. Yes, the Portrait Gallery, part of the Smithsonian Institution, owns the only readily accessible complete collection of presidential likenesses. But recently commissioned additions to the collection have been so undistinguished that the tradition of installing a new portrait after a leader has left office is now little more than ceremonial routine.

This debut is strikingly different. Not only are the Obamas the first presidential couple claiming African descent to be enshrined in the collection. The painters theyve chosen to portray them  Kehinde Wiley, for Barack Obamas portrait; Amy Sherald, for Michelle Obama  are African American as well. Both artists have addressed the politics of race consistently in their past work, and both have done so in subtly savvy ways in these new commissions. Wiley depicts Barack Obama not as a self-assured, standard-issue bureaucrat, but as an alert and troubled thinker. Sheralds image of Michelle Obama overemphasizes an element of couturial spectacle, but also projects a rock-solid cool.

It doesnt take Black Lives Matter consciousness to see the significance of this racial lineup within the national story as told by the Portrait Gallery. Some of the earliest presidents represented  George Washington, Thomas Jefferson  were slaveholders; Michelle Obamas great-great grandparents were slaves. And today were seeing more and more evidence that the social gains of the civil rights, and Black Power, and Obama eras are, with a vengeance, being rolled back.

Wiley, born in Los Angeles in 1977, gained a following with his crisp, glossy, life-size paintings of young African American men dressed in hip-hop styles, but depicted in the old-master manner of European royal portraits.

In an imposingly scaled painting  just over 7 feet tall  the artist presents Barack Obama dressed in the regulation black suit and an open-necked white shirt. Whereas Obamas predecessors are, to the man, shown expressionless and composed, Obama sits tensely forward, frowning, elbows on his knees, arms crossed, as if listening hard.

At some level, all portraits are propaganda, political or personal. And what makes this one distinctive is the personal part. Wiley has set Obama against  really embedded him in  a bower of what looks like ground cover. From the greenery sprout flowers that have symbolic meaning for the sitter. African blue lilies represent Kenya, his fathers birthplace; jasmine stands for Hawaii, where Obama himself was born; chrysanthemums, the official flower of Chicago, reference the city where his political career began, and where he met his wife.

Michelle Obamas choice of Sherald as an artist was an enterprising one. Sherald, who was born in Columbus, Ga., in 1973 and lives in Baltimore, is just beginning to move into the national spotlight.

She shows Michelle Obama sitting against a field of light blue, wearing a spreading gown. The dress design, by Michelle Smith, is eye-teasingly complicated: mostly white interrupted by black op art-ish blips and patches of striped color suggestive of African textiles. The shape of the dress, rising pyramidally upward, mountain-like, feels as if it were the real subject of the portrait.

Holland Cotter is a New York Times writer.Beaver Dam, WI (53916)

Today

Clouds and some sun this morning with more clouds for this afternoon. Slight chance of a rain shower. High near 70F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low around 50F. Winds light and variable.Parents from Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Peters Memorial schools say they have invested not only money but time and love into the schools theyve chosen to send their children to.

In light of the uncertainty over the future of both schools due to under-enrollment, parents feel helpless. The Diocese of Laredo began holding meetings with all stakeholders to determine a solution, including merging the two schools.

In a statement issued Friday, Romeo Rodriguez, Diocese of Laredo chancellor and acting superintendent, said Bishop James Tamayo was made aware of Our Lady of Guadalupe not having sufficient funds to pay faculty or meet budget for the end of the 2016-17 school year.

It was the diocese and the bishop who facilitated that Our Lady of Guadalupe School receive $100,000 from diocesan funds in the past three years to assist in the schools continuation, the statement reads.

It is unclear if St. Peters Memorial received similar assistance. Rodriguez could not be reached for comment.

RELATED: Two Laredo schools on the verge of closure

He said in the statement that each Catholic school is responsible for creating a budget, promoting student enrollment and remaining financially solvent. The Catholic Sharing Appeal, an annual fundraiser, also provides tuition assistance to the diocesan schools.

In 2017, $521,014 was raised. This money goes to various ministries, programs and schools. Of the total, $30,000 was distributed to its four schools, according to Rene Gonzalez, director of the Dioceses Office of Stewardship and Development. They include St. Augustine High, St. Augustine Elementary/Middle, St. Peters Memorial and Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Parents said this source of financial assistance isnt enough. And after this weeks meetings they say they are now tasked with fundraising and recruiting to help keep the schools open.

One parent, who wished to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation, said both schools are in the same predicament, which seems to stem from a lack of leadership and commitment from the diocese.

Rodriguez contested that notion, saying nothing can be further from the truth.

The Diocese of Laredo supports each Catholic school but, as in every city throughout the Catholic Church, it is the dependability of the parents, alumni and the community that assures each Catholic school remains viable in its mission to its community, the Diocese of Laredo said in a statement.

St. Peters Memorial School is scheduled to have its first-ever gala dinner on March 28 at La Posadas San Agustin Ballroom and Our Lady of Guadalupe School is working on a series of fundraising events as well. Rodriguez said these are some examples of how the schools are being proactive and trying to dissolve the challenge.

Tyna Lozano Saavedra, whose daughter attends Our Lady of Guadalupe, said her role as a parent only affords her so much.

Were working class. Were just parents who are working to provide a good, solid education for our children without compromising our religious beliefs, she said.

Saavedra said she was disheartened over how these schools  rich in culture and tradition  have become dispensable to the diocese. She, along with other parents, are unsure what they would be fundraising for if they have yet to know a certain outcome for the schools.

If we could fund this school on love alone we would endlessly, but thats not the case, Saavedra said.

The diocese has hired Martinez, the past interim superintendent, as a consultant. Martinez said he has begun collecting information from both schools and will be meeting with their respective school advisory boards. Assessments on enrollment trends, school finances and the cost of facilities should be gathered by mid-March to reach a decision regarding the fate of the schools.

Since 2016, the Diocese of Laredo has been without a longstanding superintendent. For 13 years, Rosa Maria Vida oversaw Catholic education in the diocese. The position was vacant for about a year as the diocese searched for a replacement for Vida, who retired June 2016. During the search for a permanent superintendent, Blas Martinez, former Laredo ISD administrator, was appointed as interim.

In July 2017, the diocese named Federico Valle as the superintendent of Catholic schools. But Valle stepped down after five months on the job. The diocese said he needed to vacate the position to address family matters.BEIJING - Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte last week told soldiers to shoot female rebels in their genitals, the latest in a series of violent, misogynistic remarks.

Addressing a group of former communist rebels on Feb. 7, Duterte, who served as a city mayor before becoming president, appeared to encourage Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to target women in conflict.

"Tell the soldiers. 'There's a new order coming from the mayor. We won't kill you. We will just shoot your vagina,'" he said.

"If there is no vagina, it would be useless," he continued, appearing to imply that women are useless without their genitals," according to local media reports.

The Presidential Communications Office included the comment in the official transcript from the event, but replaced the word "vagina" with a dash.

RELATED VIDEO: 'Dictator, fascist': anti-Duterte rally in Manila

Duterte's presidency has thus far been defined by violence - and often violently misogynistic language.

Since he came to power on a promise to kill all the country's drug users and dealers, thousands of Filipinos have been shot dead, prompting the international criminal court to open a preliminary examination.

Duterte regularly denigrates and threatens women, but when challenged, insists it was all just a joke. Just last week his spokesman, Harry Roque, accused women of "overreacting" to the president's comments. "I mean, that's funny. Come on. Just laugh," he said.

According to the official transcript from the Feb. 7 event, the crowd did, in fact, laugh.

Duterte has made headlines for "joking" about the rape of a kidnapped Australian, lamenting he hadn't been first, and for telling troops to rape women in conflict. He often shares his unsolicited opinions on the sexual attractiveness of various women, particularly female politicians who question his policies, in an apparent effort to demean, shame and silence them.

As Duterte's translated remarks began to circulate over the weekend, feminist and human writes groups expressed their anger and dismay.

"Duterte (sic) latest nasty remark openly encourages violence against women, contributes to the impunity on such, and further confirms himself as the most dangerous macho-fascist in the government right now," said a representative for Gabriela, a feminist organization, in a statement.

"He is pushing the fascist AFP to commit more bloody human rights violations and grave abuses of international humanitarian law, and takes state terrorism against women and the people to a whole new level."

In a statement, Carlos Conde, a researcher for Human Rights Watch, called it "the latest in a series of misogynist, derogatory and demeaning statements he has made about women."

"It encourages state forces to commit sexual violence during armed conflict, which is a violation of international humanitarian law," the statement added.WASHINGTON - The Education Department confirmed Monday that it will no longer investigate civil rights complaints from transgender students who are barred from school bathrooms that match their gender identity, a development that transgender students say leaves them vulnerable to bullying and violence.

The Obama administration in 2016 directed public schools to allow students to use bathrooms that align with their gender identity, even when if that conflicted with the gender on their birth certificates. The Obama administration concluded that barring transgender students from public school bathrooms was a form of sex discrimination prohibited under federal law.

But shortly after President Donald Trump took office last year, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and Attorney General Jeff Sessions rescinded the guidance, a move that was widely decried by civil rights groups who said it could endanger the welfare of transgender students. DeVos said states and individual school districts should be able to determine how to accommodate transgender students.

Transgender students say using the bathroom that feels right for them is essential for their safety and well-being, and poses no threat to others. Some other students and their families see it as an affront to privacy and traditional values. It is a battle that has been waged at school board meetings, in state legislatures and in the courts. A transgender student from Virginia, Gavin Grimm, took his fight to use the boys' bathroom to the U.S. Supreme Court in 2016. The high court declined to hear the case after DeVos reversed course on transgender students rights.

In the aftermath of the move, it remained unclear how the department would handle civil rights complaints from transgender students who were barred access to public school bathrooms. In June, Candice Jackson, the acting head of the Office for Civil Rights, told staff that it should evaluate civil rights complaints from transgender students on a case-by-case basis, but did not say outright that bathroom complaints should be dismissed. That same month, the department dismissed a long-running civil rights complaint from a transgender girl in Ohio who had been barred from the girls' bathroom at school.

Transgender students held out hope that the department would continue to back them when they raised issues about bathroom access, even though the guidance was no longer in place. Advocates maintain that Title IX, which bars sex discrimination in schools that receive federal funds, requires schools to allow transgender students to use bathrooms that match their gender identity.

But the department interprets the law differently. It confirmed Monday that it will not investigate civil rights complaints from transgender students regarding bathroom access, though it will continue to scrutinize other forms of discrimination. The development was first reported by Buzzfeed.

"Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, not gender identity," Education Department spokeswoman Elizabeth Hill said in response to questions from The Washington Post. "Where students, including transgender students, are penalized or harassed for failing to conform to sex-based stereotypes, that is sex discrimination prohibited by Title IX. In the case of bathrooms, however, longstanding regulations provide that separating facilities on the basis of sex is not a form of discrimination prohibited by Title IX."

Pressed on whether the department would investigate such complaints, Hill said: "Where [the Office for Civil Rights] does not have jurisdiction based on current law [the Office for Civil Rights] does not investigate."

DeVos has emphasized that her department would not tolerate bullying or harassment of transgender students.

"Please note that the withdrawal of these guidance documents does not leave students without protections from discrimination, bullying or harassment," DeVos wrote last year after she rescinded the Obama-era protections from transgender students. "All schools must ensure that all students, including LGBT students, are able to learn and thrive in a safe environment."For the fourth consecutive year, City of Laredo Municipal Court Judge Rosie Cuellar will perform a free mass wedding ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 14.

Justice of the Peace Danny Dominguez will also be hosting a free wedding ceremony Wednesday at Royal Receptions, 2101 Lomas Del Sur Blvd., at 2 p.m., which will be performed in both English and Spanish. For more information, contact 956-523-5330

Cuellars ceremony will be at 3 p.m. and will also be performed in both English and Spanish. The ceremony will take place at La Posada Hotel. Additionally, door prizes will be raffled out to couples including a two-night stay at La Posada, a dinner for two at the Zaragoza Grill and many others.

After the free wedding ceremony, Cuellar will sign the marriage licenses and will have them ready within a week so the couples may file them at the County Clerk's office.

While my daily duties consist of enforcing the municipal laws of our city, presiding over marriage ceremonies is one aspect of my role as judge that I am honored to be able to perform this for the fourth consecutive year. Cuellar said.One of the more dangerous escalations in the long and brutal Syrian war took place last weekend. On Saturday, Israeli authorities shot down an alleged Iranian drone that had entered Israeli airspace from a base in Syria. The incursion was followed by a swift and stunning series of airstrikes - the largest the Israelis have carried out there since their 1982 invasion of Lebanon.

But the action didn't stop there. Syrian regime forces hit one of the Israeli F-16s with antiaircraft fire. The plane crashed in northern Israel, and at least one of the two officers who ejected was severely injured.

The incident was another reminder of how entrenched the violence in Syria has become. As the country approaches a seventh year of conflict, the war taking place in its skies is growing more complicated, just as battles on the ground have.

The Israelis have bombed Syria numerous times over the course of the war - though this is their first public acknowledgment of doing so. They want to counter Iranian influence on their doorstep in the form of Hezbollah, the powerful Lebanese Shiite organization, and various pro-Iran militias, all deployed in defense of the Bashar Assad regime. Meanwhile, the Russians are relentlessly bombing Syrian rebel groups, often at the expense of civilians in their midst.

Turkey, after years of working toward Assad's downfall, has started bombing Syrian Kurdish factions it sees as terrorist threats. The United States, of course, has conducted a devastating air campaign against the Islamic State, sometimes working in league with Syrian Kurds as well as other rebel outfits on the ground. And the Assad regime continues to bomb targets within the country and, according to the United Nations, is still striking civilian areas with chemical weapons.

U.N. officials are alarmed by the "wave after wave" of deadly airstrikes hitting the country. In a statement, U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres called "on all to work for an immediate and unconditional de-escalation of violence and exercise restraint."

Israel claimed its attacks served as a stark warning to Iran. "They, and we, know what we hit and it will take them some time for them to digest, understand and ask how Israel knew how to hit those sites," Israeli Minister of Intelligence Israel Katz told Israel's Army Radio. "These were concealed sites and we have intelligence agencies and the ability to know everything that is going on there and yesterday we proved that."

The incident gave Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing a potential corruption indictment at home, a chance to reprise his favored role as a champion of Israeli national security.

"I have been warning for some time about the dangers of Iran's military entrenchment in Syria. Iran seeks to use Syrian territory to attack Israel for its professed goal of destroying Israel," he said via Twitter.

But Netanyahu seems to have few options in Syria. He has made overtures to Russia in a bid to drive a wedge between Moscow and Tehran, Assad's two main foreign backers. Russian forces, though, were almost certainly complicit bystanders in Syria's shadow war with Israel.

One of the Syrian bases "struck by Israel on Saturday houses not only Syrian soldiers but Russian military officers, too," the Washington Post's Adam Taylor noted. "Some Israeli observers have said it is hard to imagine that the Russians there would not have known about the Iranian drone or the subsequent antiaircraft fire."

"Israel has no choice but to accept Moscow's rules," wrote Haaretz columnist Anshel Pfeffer. "It will continue to demonstrate that it can fly over Syrian airspace and attack targets, but will nonetheless have to exercise much more caution. Russia, while it is not stopping the Israeli planes, despite its control over Syrian airspace, will not stop Assad's military from trying to shoot them down either."

So, beyond public snarling and a few covert strikes, the Israelis are themselves unlikely to risk further escalation.

Either way, the situation means more pain for Syria's beleaguered civilians. "The first weeks of 2018 have turned into one of the bloodiest periods of the conflict yet," The Post's Liz Sly wrote last week, "with hundreds killed in airstrikes, nearly 300,000 displaced in northwestern Syria and 400,000 at risk of starvation in a besieged area east of Damascus that has not received food since November."

"Numerous plans to limit the human toll have been floated, only to sink without trace," Simon Tisdall noted in a scathing essay in the Observer, referring to the fleeting talk of "safe havens" within Syria and the "faltering" Russian-backed scheme of "de-escalation" zones that numerous parties to the conflict have flouted.

Washington, meanwhile, is little more than a bystander. Both the Obama and Trump administrations have focused primarily on defeating the Islamic State while skirting a reckoning with the Assad regime. It has led to a situation where America's most important proxies in Syria will likely have to turn to Damascus.

"Iranian drone took off from base under Russian control. Syrians trained by Russians fired Russian missiles at Israeli planes. Israel coordinates operations over Syria with Russia and asks Russia to prevent escalation.The US has never been less relevant," posted Anshel Pfeffer, a British journalist.

"In the end, our Syrian Kurdish and Syrian Arab allies must strike a deal with Assad," Robert Ford, a former U.S. ambassador to Damascus, said in congressional testimony last week. "Unless we are prepared for an indefinite military presence, that deal will largely be on Assad's terms because he will wait us out."

And the damage is not just to U.S. credibility.

"The failure to end the war has done enormous damage to the international institutions that have shaped global affairs since 1945," Tisdall wrote. "It has altered the strategic power balance in fundamental ways, permanently changing the world we live in. . . . If the war has proved anything, it is that among Syria's neighbors, concern for Syrian lives, territorial integrity, national identity or democratic governance does not rate highly."An Encinal rancher and attorney is suing federal and state law enforcement for allegedly trespassing and installing a surveillance camera on his property without his consent.

Ricardo D. Palacios filed the suit against Mario Martinez, chief Border Patrol agent in the Laredo sector, and a Texas ranger.

The suit alleges that Border Patrol agents have trespassed onto Palacios ranch on multiple occasions and continued their intrusions even after he confronted them and forbid them from entering his property.

READ ALSO: LISD police chief named in lawsuit

Raul Casso, Palacios attorney, said his client did not know for how long the camera had been there before he found it nor if there are any other cameras still hidden on his ranch.

Everyone has a reasonable right to privacy and a right to private property, Casso said. That right is protected with laws against trespassing and unwarranted police intrusions. In this case, to add insult to injury, they have a camera that they secretly stuck in a tree, watching over 24/7, on property they were not even supposed to be on.

Palacios found the camera hidden in a mesquite tree near his sons home, with both agents and the ranger, Ernesto Salinas, claiming ownership of the device and demanding its return, according to the suit.

Salinas threatened Palacios with pressing theft charges if the camera was not returned to him, the lawsuit says.

Palacios often found agents roaming freely around his ranch, and when he would ask them to leave, they would sometimes claim that they were within 25 miles of the border and thus acting within their rights, court documents state.

U.S. law allows immigration officers to access private lands, but not homes, for the purpose of patrolling the border to prevent the illegal entry of immigrants into the country as long as they are within a distance of 25 miles from any external boundary of the United States.

Palacios says his ranch, located at approximately the 35-mile marker of Interstate 35, is outside this boundary. He is seeking $500,000 in damages for mental and emotional distress along with punitive damages and attorney fees.

READ ALSO: LPD officer praised for selfless act

Palacios asked the court to declare that his ranch is located beyond 25 miles from the external boundary of the country and that Martinez, Salinas and the other agents broke the law by entering private property without a warrant, without pressing circumstances and without his consent.

Border Patrol and Texas DPS declined to comment on the allegations, citing pending litigation. The Texas Attorney Generals Office, which is representing the defendants, declined to comment as well.

Casso, Palacios attorney, said that Palacios is a well-respected lawyer in the community who knows the law and his rights. He said that after years of unsavory confrontations with Border Patrol agents, the finding of the surveillance camera was the proverbial last straw for his client.

The government is peeking around where its not supposed to without any judicial oversight, Casso said.

He said that whether it was purposeful behavior or incompetence, the agents were not acting within the scope of their employment and were breaking the law.

He added that his clients constitutional rights to privacy and private property were being trampled on.

Its not us against the good guys, Casso said. Were on the side of the law. Were enforcing the Constitution and the laws that emanate from it. The government and its agencies need to respect private property and the individuals whose property it is.

Since the filing of the suit, Palacios has not had any further incidents with agents, according to Casso. He believes the agencies will behave until the outcome of the lawsuit is decided.

Allegations

The issues with agents date back to an altercation one of Palacios sons had with multiple agents in 2010. At about 1 a.m. April 4, both of Palacios sons were driving home to their ranch, and after driving up to the I-35 checkpoint, Ricardo D. Palacios Jr. refused to tell the officer where he lived, according to the suit.

The brothers were directed to secondary inspection, where 10 agents came out of nowhere and body slammed Palacios to the ground, according to court documents. He was later placed in a detention cell for about an hour and half before being released, the petition states.

Later that evening, Palacios sons arrived at their ranch and found several agents inside an unmarked truck at the front gate of property. After confronting the agents, they threatened to file assault charges against Palacios, according to the lawsuit.

The agents left after a supervisor arrived and ended the confrontation, court documents state.

Since these awful incidents, and over the last several years, (Palacios has) encountered agents  going onto their land, roaming freely about, at will, day and night, without any warrant or legal authority, without landowner consent, over landowners objections, and without exigent circumstances that would permit such intrusions upon private property, the lawsuit says.

Operation Drawbridge

The camera Palacios found on his property appears to be part of Operation Drawbridge, a multi-million-dollar effort by Texas DPS to build a virtual wall along the border. The agency has purchased 4,000 cameras, similar to the wildlife cameras popular with ranchers, for about $300 a piece and installed them across South Texas, according to DPS.

The cameras can be monitored by the states Border Security Operations Center in Austin, the six Joint Operations Intelligence Centers DPS has along the border, and CBP officials.

According to a DPS presentation to Congress last year, the images captured by the cameras can also be viewed by local law enforcement and ranchers who have access through a password-protected web page. The state has touted it as high tech capability at a low tech cost.

Civil rights violations

The Border Patrol has interpreted the law as giving them wide leeway to operate onto private property, said Efren Olivares, the racial and economic justice director at the Texas Civil Rights Project. However, the courts havent defined patrolling, and its not clear if that allows Border Patrol agents to place sensors or cameras on private land, Olivares said.

The fact that the camera is apparently the property of DPS raises more questions. A state trooper might be able to enter private property within the 25 miles and install a Border Patrol camera if theyre working with Homeland Security, Olivares said. But the law doesnt allow state or local law enforcement access to private property without a warrant, even within the 25-mile zone granted to Homeland Security, nor does it allow state or local law enforcement agencies to place cameras on private property.

The statute grants that authority to (Homeland Security) agents or employees, not any other state agency or county agency or city police department, Olivares said. It doesnt mean that within 25 miles, any agency, state, local, can enter private land.

The state of Texas may have found a way around that. Testifying before Congress last year, DPS Director Steve McCraw said, The State of Texas has provided Border Patrol agents more than 4,000 low-cost, high-capability cameras to detect smuggling activity along the border.

If they are giving it to the Border Patrol, theyre free to do it, and now its no longer the property of DPS, Olivares said, meaning Border Patrol could then put the cameras on private property within the 25-mile zone.

However, it would then be difficult for the state to bring charges against Palacios, as Ranger Salinas allegedly threatened.

If thats what they are doing, it is then Border Patrols property, Olivares said of the camera.

If a judge finds that Palacios ranch isnt within 25 miles of the river, then the issue of whether Border Patrol has access to his property is rendered moot. The zone tracks the loops and bends of the Rio Grande, but Palacios lawyers say the closest the border comes to his ranch is more than 27 miles from his property line.

It sounds like theres no point any piece of that property is within 25 miles of any portion of the river, Olivares said. I hope theyre right, and if they are, then I dont think DHS is going to have any argument as to whether this 25-mile provision applies.

We hear about this happening to people, but its sort of isolated incidents  and it doesnt necessarily rise to a lawsuit, added Olivares, who works in the Rio Grande Valley. But its still abuse of authority by CBP agents, so Im glad theres a lawsuit taking this on, because theres a problem of Border Patrol and CBP agents doing more than the law allows them to do and they trespass on private property.

Chris Rickerd, policy counsel for border and immigration issues at the American Civil Liberties Union, summed up his opinion with a single statement: The question really becomes what sort of surveillance is really looming over every border resident in their daily lives?CAIRO - Secretary of State Rex Tillerson arrived in Cairo on Sunday, beginning a swing through the Middle East as it grapples with political turmoil and military clashes that threaten to undermine his ability to ease the rising tensions.

Tillerson was already facing a series of confrontational talks at almost every stop on his five-country tour. The strains grew even more taut when Egypt launched an offensive against militants in the Sinai, and Israel skirmished with the Iranian-affililated Syrian military. Israel said it destroyed an Iranian drone that entered its airspace, and an Israeli plane was shot down over Syria. U.S. officials offered quick assurances of support for Israel's right to defend itself and called on Iran to get out of Syria.

Besides Egypt, Tillerson also will visit Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey in coming days, where he will engage in a grab bag of the most complicated and sensitive issues embroiling the region today.

"These are some of our closest partners," a senior State Department official told reporters on the condition of anonymity to preview the trip. "But they're also partners with whom we're facing some of the toughest issues that we have to face in the region."

The Cairo stop underscores the balancing act Tillerson must finesse this week. The United States sees Egypt as an important ally in fighting terrorists, particularly the Islamic State and its potent offshoot in the northern Sinai. But Washington also is concerned about threats to democracy and civil rights in the country as President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi has quashed any meaningful opponents to his bid for re-election next month. The United States has suspended $195 million in military aid over concerns about human rights and democracy.

In Kuwait on Tuesday, Tillerson will attend a conference focusing on how to reconstruct a devastated Iraq in the years and decades ahead, relying largely on private-sector companies and international financial organizations. Tillerson also will meet with foreign ministers about the next step in foiling Islamic State militants by stopping them at borders and deterring recruits. And he will discuss the months-long trade embargo several Gulf countries have imposed on Qatar, which Kuwait is trying to mediate.

Trump administration policies will be the center of Tillerson's talks in Amman. With a large Palestinian population, Jordan is unhappy with President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and move the U.S. embassy there. The kingdom is strapped by an influx of 650,000 Syrian refugees, and Tillerson is set to sign an agreement to assist and cooperate with Jordan in tackling security, defense and economic issues.

During a brief visit to Beirut, Tillerson is expected to press Lebanese officials to rein in Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group that is a threat to neighboring Israel.

But the most contentious stop this week is likely to be in Ankara, where a rising tide of anti-Americanism is spurred on by the government's media mouthpieces who have called the United States an enemy of Turkey.

U.S. officials have expressed concern for the safety of locally hired employees of the U.S. embassy. Some employees and U.S. citizens are under arrest in the state of emergency declared after the 2016 attempted coup. And tempers have flared over the situation in Syria, where the United States supports Kurdish fighters that Turkey considers to be terrorists.

"The rhetoric is hot, the Turks are angry, and this is a difficult time to do business," the State Department official acknowledged to reporters, adding that it is important to search for common ground. "It's going to be a difficult conversation."The six Houston men accused of robbing a Chase Bank ATM in north Laredo are suspects in a rash of robberies reported in the Harris County area, according to court documents.

A criminal complaint also states the suspects are affiliated with a gang thats known for working in groups to commit nighttime burglaries and targeting bank and ATM customers.

READ ALSO: LPD: 6 arrested for Chase Bank ATM robbery

The Laredo Police Department is working closely with the FBI and Harris County Sheriffs Office Department due to the subjects identified being involved in a rash of robberies throughout the Harris County area. It is believed that all subjects are affiliated with the Market Street Money Gang out of Harris County, the complaint states.

Market Street Money Gang is part of the 5th Ward Circle.

5th Ward Circle is an umbrella group operating in the 5th Ward area of northeast Houston that has smaller, individual gangs that fall under it. These include the Market Street Money Gang, Brewster Park Bitch Killers, Coke Street, 2 CCs, and Bac Street, according to the Houston PD gang division. Their signature crimes include working in groups of three to six man teams committing night time burglaries of pharmacies, convenience stores, jewelry stores (smash and grabs), and juggings (targeting bank and ATM customers).

Paul Roosevelt Banks, 23, John Felton Boutte, 28, David Benford Dorsey, 37, Kevin Dewayne Harris, 31, Jesse Banks Motton, 32, and Charles Jermaine Randle, 32, were each charged Tuesday with aggravated robbery and engaging in organized criminal activity in connection with the robbery in Laredo.

Custody records show the six suspects remained behind bars at the Webb County Jail as of Friday evening.

LPD said they responded to the robbery at about 3:30 p.m. Tuesday after a technician was assaulted while servicing an ATM located outside Chase Bank, 10720 International Blvd., according to the complaint. When the technician attempted to defend himself, the suspect grabbed his waistline as if to show he had a gun. The technician then ran away, fearing for his life, according to court records.

After stealing cash from the bank, the suspects got into a blue Jeep Cherokee occupied by two other men. the complaint states. Police said the Jeep was last seen traveling to Bob Bullock Loop and turning north on International.

READ ALSO: Wanted man busted for robbery, burglary

An officer located the Jeep abandoned by East Point Drive and Union Pacific Boulevard. Police said they learned the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Harris County.

Surveillance video from the area showed the Jeep arriving at the location followed by a black Toyota Camry. One of the suspects, later identified as Randle, ripped the paper plates from the Jeep before entering the Toyota, according to the complaint. The suspects then fled the area.

About an hour later, the Toyota arrived at the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on U.S. 59, about 46 miles east of Laredo. Agents referred the vehicle to secondary inspection because the occupants matched the description of the suspects.

Agents said they found $88,200 in the trunk of the vehicle. They detained the Toyotas driver and four passengers. Then, a Chevy Malibu driven by Motton arrived at the checkpoint. The Malibu was registered to Banks. All were detained by Border Patrol and turned over to LPD.WASHINGTON - Early Monday morning, President Donald Trump sent a tweet celebrating the start of his White House campaign for an infrastructure bill. In it, he claimed that the United States has spent "$7 trillion in the Middle East."

"This will be a big week for Infrastructure. After so stupidly spending $7 trillion in the Middle East, it is now time to start investing in OUR Country!" he tweeted.

The president has made this claim (or one like it) several times - on the campaign trail, in interviews and in speeches. According to our fact checkers, Trump has repeated this number at least 21 times.

But . . . it's flat wrong.

Though estimates vary, experts say the United States spent about $1.8 trillion on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan between 2001 and 2017. (Of course, Afghanistan is not actually in the Middle East, but Trump seems to be including that country in his calculation.)

More comprehensive assessments, which look at direct and indirect expenditures from the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan Pakistan and Syria, estimate the cost at about $3.6 trillion from 2001 to 2016, according to a Brown University study. That figure includes costs tied to veterans' care and disability benefits, along with "war-related additions" to the Department of Homeland Security, the Pentagon and the State Department.

As our fact checkers report, the number that Trump is citing seems to come from another Brown University report, one that estimates future spending all the way out to 2050. His figure also seems to include, they write, matters such as "interest on the debt and veterans' care for the next three decades." (A working paper from professors at Harvard Kennedy School estimated that the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan would ultimately cost taxpayers $4 trillion to $6 trillion.)

Here's another thing about the president's tweet: Despite what he said on the campaign trail, Trump has expanded the war effort in Afghanistan. He approved a troop surge there, a decision that added billions to the overall cost of the war in that country. As The Washington Post reported, Trump's "decision to send more troops will add billions of dollars a year to the already-towering war costs, which have topped $1 trillion in Afghanistan alone over the past 16 years. And the government will still be paying for war veterans' health-care costs for at least another half-century."

Mufson wrote that U.S. spending in Afghanistan will rise to about $840.7 billion if the president's fiscal 2018 budget is approved. (That estimate comes courtesy of Anthony Cordesman, an expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.)

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Video: President Trump has claimed that the U.S. spent $7 trillion in the Middle East since the campaign. But his math is still wrong.(Meg Kelly/The Washington Post)

Embed code:A unique seamstress and avid bunco player, Gloria H. Glo Garcia loved a good laugh and company.

Growing up, my mother sewed and designed our clothes. She wanted my sister and I to be dressed different and unique, said her oldest daughter, Yolanda Marie Garcia, who was taught embroidery by her mother. I remember seeing girls at school with the same shirt or dresses, and I would tell myself, Thank God, my mom designs my clothes.

Garcia, who also was an oil and watercolor painter and taught ceramic classes at Lions Field, died Feb. 8. She was 91.

While attending Fox Tech High School, Garcia met Eliseo Garcia, her future husband. They married in 1947 when he returned from the Navy.

Married for 60 years, the couple had four children together. After the arrival of Yvonne, their youngest child, Garcia became a stay-at-home mom.

Garcia was involved with all her childrens extracurricular activities. She also volunteered at her childrens school during lunch hour and helped on the serving line.

More Information Gloria H. 'Glo' Garcia Born: Aug. 26, 1926, San Antonio Died: Feb. 8, 2018, San Antonio Preceded by: Mother Theresa Rios; husband Eliseo Garcia Jr.; son Richard A. Garcia; sister Olga Rios. Survived by: Daughters Yolanda Marie Garcia, Virginia Villarreal and husband Juan, and Yvonne Moore and husband David; brother Rolando Rios; sister Irene Rios; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren Services:Visitation 6-8 p.m., rosary at 7 p.m. today at Mission Park Funeral Chapels Cherry Ridge, 3401 Cherry Ridge Drive; funeral 10 a.m. Wednesday at Mission Park Funeral Chapels Cherry Ridge See More Collapse

Mom and Dads house was the spot for all the holiday parties or get-togethers, daughter Yvonne Moore said. On Christmas Eve, the family would make tamales and bunuelos.

Family time always involved playing Chinese checkers, word games and Yahtzee.

We would get competitive with one another, Yolanda Garcia said. Marbles would get thrown on the floor from losing.

Bingo was another game Garcia loved to play.

If we couldnt find my mother at home, we could find her at the bingo parlor, which was around the corner from her house, Yolanda Garcia said.

Garcia would pick up her friends who couldnt drive anymore.

Her station wagon would be full of ladies to take to bingo, Moore said.

Garcias husband was a San Antonio firefighter for 35 years.

Our parents were great role models. They taught us unconditional love and to always be there for one another, Yolanda Garcia said. The family is going to miss her, but Im happy Mom is finally reunited with Dad in heaven.

jdvalle@express-news.netAn alleged member of a ring that distributed more than 350,000 pain killer pills laced with deadly fentanyl has agreed to plead guilty to drug-trafficking conspiracy in the case.

Mohamed Blake Al Salihi has signed a plea deal that says he ran a stash house at an apartment on Fredericksburg Road for the reputed ringleader, Alaa Mohammed Allawi, 28. The stash house was used to make the counterfeit pills and distribute them on college campuses and the streets of San Antonio. His plea hearing is scheduled for March 6.

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Al Salihis plea deal contains a factual summary of the case that says that from September 2015 to June 2017, Allawis drug ring distributed 359,553 Oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl, 342,551 pills of Adderall laced with methamphetamine and 145,395 pills of counterfeit Xanax.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and San Antonio police shut down the pill mill in the summer, following a two-year investigation that began on the campus of the University of Texas at San Antonio and stretched to back alleys of the Internet.

The investigation took priority in the wake of the countrys opioid crisis, and federal prosecutors could not recall a case like it in San Antonio in recent memory.

RELATED: Gunman at large after shooting at San Antonio home

Al Salihi and Allawi  both Iraqi immigrants and former roommates who served as interpreters for U.S. military forces  were among eight people charged federally last summer.

The ring is alleged to have manufactured pain and anxiety pills laced with fentanyl or other drugs obtained from China, using commercial pill presses also obtained from that country.

The group then used the Dark Web  where visitors can buy anything from illegal drugs and black-market guns to fake IDs  to sell the drugs, the DEA said. Many orders were mailed, placing postal workers in danger, prosecutors have said.

Fentanyl is an opioid pain medication with a rapid onset and short duration. Its 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine, according to the DEA and prosecutors.

It sometimes is mixed with heroin or other drugs and can be deadly. Tiny specks of the powder have overdosed police officers around the country who unknowingly handled the substance at crime scenes.

Agents believe several people may have died from using the fentanyl-laced pills, including some in San Antonio, though none of the defendants is charged in any deaths.

Agents found that during the investigation, the ring moved its pill lab to suburban Houston. On May 17, in a raid captured by television cameras, DEA agents used hazmat space suits to search a home in Richmond linked to the ring and seized 500 grams of fentanyl, 500 grams of crystal meth, 500 grams of cocaine, 10 kilograms of fraudulent Oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl, 4 kilograms of fruadulent adderall tablets laced with meth, 5 kilograms of fraudulent Xanax pills.

Also last summer, agents searched the San Antonio stash house and a home related to the ring in the Medical Center and found drug ledgers, computers, iPads, $2,225 in cash, 917 grams of meth, a homemade AR-15-style rifle and .223-caliber ammunition.

Al Salihi admitted his involvement to the DEA, telling agents of shipments that arrived for making the deadly pills. He also told agents that one time, he heard Allawi yell at someone not to sniff the fentanyl because it could kill them, the factual summary said.

Al Salihi also told agents that Allawi paid him to stay at the Fredericksburg Road apartment and gave him pocket money for operating the stash house and for keeping his mouth shut.

Once he formally pleads guilty in March, Al Salihi faces 10 years to life in prison. His co-defendants await trial.

gcontreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedlandAn endangered Cook Inlet beluga whale that was rescued off the coast of Alaska in late 2017 will have a new home at SeaWorld San Antonio, park officials said Sunday.

Tyonek was found weak and was stranded for several hours in September off the Alaskan coast, according to officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries. Found when he was less than a month old, his mother either abandoned Tyonek, or she died, experts from the Alaska SeaLife Center said.WASHINGTON  A long-awaited infrastructure plan President Donald Trump sent to Congress Monday aims to spur investment in the nation's ailing highways and bridges, but provides little in the way of a roadmap for Texas and other states looking for ways to pay for new construction.

The plan, which Trump said is intended to "help the states out," calls for the federal government to invest $200 billion over the next decade to leverage as much as $1.5 trillion in state and private infrastructure spending.

Cities like Houston could use the money for new water projects, road building or public transit.

But there's a catch for state and local officials: the bulk of the funding would have to come from their own coffers, either by borrowing, taxing, tolling, or cutting budgets.

READ ALSO: Northwest Mall could gain new life as terminal for Houston-Dallas bullet train

While Republicans remained largely silent about the plan, Democrats immediately assailed it as unworkable for states and municipalities facing their own budget woes. Texas U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, a San Antonio Democrat, called it "not a serious plan."

The plan, a major campaign plank, was released alongside a $4.4 trillion budget blueprint cutting a host of domestic program while also pushing up military spending and raising annual deficits over the next decade.

Although White House budgets are widely seen only as starting points in long spending negotiations, Trump's budget, if enacted, would send ripples through NASA's Houston-based space community by privatizing the International Space Station by 2025 and redirecting federal investment into a lunar exploration program.

The space station is currently funded only through 2024, but it is widely expected to be extended by Congress.

Texas could feel the effects of Trump's spending proposals in other ways as well.

In spending for the new fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1, the budget would include $1.6 billion for 65 miles of new border wall along the Rio Grande Valley which, according to a senior administration official briefing reporters on condition of anonymity, "is based on our priorities given to us by the operators on the ground."

The administration wants to eventually spend $18 billion on the wall.

The White House also is proposing a $47.5 billion budget next year for the Homeland Security Department, which spends heavily in Texas  a 7.8 percent increase over the present year.

"We continue to invest in people, infrastructure and technology to keep terrorists and unwanted criminals out of our nation," the White House official said. The budget requests $2.8 billion for 52,000 beds associated with immigration enforcement, an expansion of about 800 in the detention capacity this year and $782 million to hire 2,750 more customs and immigration agents.

Houston-region U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, praised the president's budget, particularly for its spending on cybersecurity and the border.

But until now, congressional Democrats have fought Trump's wall funding proposals to a standstill. It's expected to be central to this week's debate about the legal status of "Dreamers" and the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.

For Texas, there is more uncertainty surrounding the infrastructure plan as well.

Half of the $200 billion Trump is proposing would create an incentive program to help states that put up their own money for major building projects. The money, awarded competitively, would cover up to 20 percent of project costs.

The plan sets aside another $50 billion for rural infrastructure programs distributed to governors through block grants. Some $30 billion more would be reserved for existing loan programs to attract private financing, and the remaining $20 billion would target "transformative" new projects, possibly including high-speed trains such as the proposed new service between Houston and Dallas.

Trump's proposal to foster more public-private partnerships for road building mirrors a bipartisan plan sponsored by Texas U.S. Sen. John Cornyn last month to raise the federal limit on tax-exempt private activity bonds for infrastructure projects.

The Trump plan does not identify any new public revenue streams for the federal dollars, such as raising the 18.4-cents-a-gallon gasoline tax, which hasn't seen an increase since 1993. Instead, officials said the plan would be funded by cuts to other parts of the federal budget.

No longer 'a roadblock'

In comments to state and local officials Monday at the White House, including Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price, Trump made clear that the infrastructure push would have to come from the states.

"If you want it badly, you're going to get it," Trump told the group. "And if you don't want it, that's OK with me, too ... Because the states will have to do it themselves if we don't do it. But I would like to help the states out."

At the same time, Trump promised to streamline federal permits and eliminate regulatory barriers. "We're going to get the roads in great shape," he said. "Washington no longer will be a roadblock to progress."

Trump also signaled that he would leave it up to the Republican-controlled Congress to get behind his infrastructure plan, which he rated as a lower priority than the recently-enacted $1.5 trillion tax, a military build-up, and business deregulation.

"If for any reason, they don't want to support it, hey, that's going to be up to them," Trump said. "What was very important to me was the military. What was very important to me was the tax cuts. And what was very important to me was regulation."

Some state officials cheered the spirit of Trump's message, even if it didn't commit Washington to much more money.

"The administration's infrastructure proposal reflects our shared confidence in the partnership of federal, state and local entities to develop and complete major infrastructure projects," said J. Bruce Bugg, chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission.

Trump's plan mirrors many efforts already in motion across Texas. Voters in 2014 and 2015 approved additional money for highways, using oil and gas taxes and a portion of the state's economic stabilization fund, also called the rainy day fund.

That allowed the transportation to plot $70 billion in capital projects over the next decade, a jump of about $20 billion from previous 10-year plans.

"Texas stands ready to work with the administration and partners to make the most of these dollars," Bugg said.

Toll roads

Some rules, of that spending, however, conflict with Trump's plan, which heavily leverages private investment. Both Prop. 7, passed in 2014 and Prop. 1, passed in 2015, bar the additional state money from being used to advance toll projects in any way.

The transportation commission last month approved its ten-year plan, minus some projects that lawmakers felt blended the state and toll money too closely, even as those projects had broad support in the Dallas and Austin areas.

To get from the $200 billion Trump proposes spending in tax dollars to the $1.5 trillion he pledged for failing roads, bridges, waterways and other projects, the president's plan relies on public-private partnerships that award federal money for 20 percent of major projects.

Though some states allow metro areas to add taxes for transportation, Texas counties and municipalities are limited. The Houston area's ability to come up with anything in addition to Metropolitan Transit Authority's one percent sales tax is negligible.

"Asking for local or private investment at 80 percent will mean that every project built in Texas will be tolled," said Adrian Shelley, director of the Texas office of Public Citizen, a left-leaning public advocacy group.

Tolling, while widespread in Texas metro areas, is also bitterly opposed by some on the left and the right as ultimately costlier for commuters.

"What good does it do us to have the Trump tax cut put money in one pocket and take it out of the other pocket with a toll privatization project," said Terri Hall, head of the nonprofit Texans for Toll-free Highways.

Hall predicted a "really big fight" with members of Congress, especially over changes that would allow tolling on existing interstate lanes. "This is the kind of language that can blow up a highway bill and we hope that it does," Hall said of Trump's plan for tolling. "I think this is an attack on urban areas, while in the rural areas you see the proposal has plans for grants."

That disparity, Hall said, hits Trump's base of working-class people the worst, she said, as many live in suburban communities and travel to jobs in urban cores.

"It throws Main Street under the bus in favor of Wall Street," she said.

Still, there are some positives from the president's plan, Hall added, including possible cuts to other transportation programs such as the Federal Transit Administration's New Starts program that shifts gas tax revenues to transit projects. Houston received $900 million of the $2.1 billion it spent on three new light rail lines from New Starts.

Flood control

Donald Jackson, the Corps' deputy commanding general for civil and emergency operations, said in a conference call Monday that Trump's infrastructure plan did not contain measures for any specific flood control projects.

"It talks legislative principles and proposals for Congress to consider that would sort of change the rules that would provide some flexibility to different organizations," Jackson said, pointing to state, local or private partners who could use the plan to finance the projects.

He said specific projects for the Houston region would likely instead stem from the emergency disaster relief measure Trump signed into law last week.

Bill Lambrecht and Mihir Zaveri contributed to this reportAUSTIN  Cities and counties inundated by Hurricane Harvey will have an opportunity to tap hundreds of millions of dollars for disaster mitigation projects, the governor office plans to announce Tuesday.

The program will offer city and county governments a chance to submit projects -- such as buyout programs, drainage projects, flood retention and elevation changes -- they want the hazard mitigation funds to cover. The governor's office said the program would make "hundreds of millions" of dollars available, but declined to release a specific dollar amount.For far too long, the debate over the Renewable Fuel Standard has been tied up in hyperpartisan debates that have done nothing to advance a thoughtful conversation about our countrys transportation fuels.

Supporters of the RFS advance arguments about environmental benefits, few of which can be supported with actual real-world results, and opponents simply write it off as the most broken policy in America. This growing polarization, over a policy that was passed and expanded with broad bipartisan majorities, comes at a critical time as the debate over the future of the RFS intensifies.

Corn and ethanol interests, including folks meeting in San Antonio this week at a key annual industry conference, and oil refiners are often seen as deeply divided opponents with no rational middle ground.

As a longtime energy policy analyst, I have long tended to come down on the side of those opposed to the policy, including the independent refining sector. But this is a policy that is not going away, and ongoing rancor serves no real policy purpose. As with any divisive issue, neither side is entirely right nor entirely wrong. But the area of common ground and room for compromise has become lost in the heated exchanges  including one we saw just recently on the floor of the U.S. Senate.

Here are the facts  ethanol is the most readily available fuel octane enhancer on the market to affordably boost performance and reduce emissions under existing EPA regulations. Blended fuels that contain 10 percent ethanol increase octane ratings, helping vehicle engines run more efficiently.

Thats one of the reasons why some of the largest ethanol producers in this country are also big refining companies. Competitive, well-managed businesses have recognized the market demand for ethanol-blended fuels and have made significant infrastructure investments to produce the product.

Reforming the federal RFS policy wouldnt wipe out the domestic market for blended fuels. Corn growers and ethanol producers would continue to produce, and refiners, whove already invested substantial capital, would continue to blend fuels that meet consumer demand. Whats more, demand for ethanol is growing beyond U.S. borders, as other countries, such as Mexico, look to American ethanol as an affordable, effective fuel oxygenate or octane enhancer.

When we step back, set aside the occasional ad hominem attack, and take a calmer look at the issue, the reality is the two sides have a lot more in common than they think they do.

The ethanol and farming businesses are no different from the oil and gas and refining business: They need regulatory certainty to properly plan and run their operations. Business models of both industries rely on the health and well-being of the liquid fuels market. After all, an electric vehicle transportation sector  a potential scenario in a post-RFS world  could hamper or greatly reduce ethanols market demand.

Without legislative action before 2022, RFS decisions fall to unelected EPA officials who could, depending on the White House occupant, set volumes that discourage ethanol use. Thats a risky future and one thats hardly palatable to either side.

Recently there have been conversations, led by Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, to review the RFS and move common-sense legislation that delivers long-term regulatory certainty. Those discussions are a significant step in the right direction. But spend any time in Washington  or even around the convention this week  and its the us-versus-them mentality that continues to prevail.

A grand bargain is possible and in the best interests of all. What that bargain looks like, and whether one comes together, could very well hinge on special interests and lawmakers burying deep differences to agree on a long-term policy solution.

David Blackmon is a veteran energy policy analyst and energy consultant based in Mansfield. He is also a contributing writer for Forbes.com and associate editor at Shale Magazine.The Texas Senate District 25 features two primary election contests this year.

Attorney Shannon McClendon is challenging incumbent Donna Campbell for the Republican nomination.

On the Democratic side, urban planner Jack Guerra and Steven Kling, who works in information technology, square off.

EDITORIAL: Bexar County residents deserve a respectful, intelligent DA  not Nico LaHood

In the GOP primary, we recommend McClendon. In the Democratic primary, we recommend Kling.

This recommendation for McClendon, who represents utilities and landowners, is as much about her being a quality candidate as it is about policy positions Campbell has taken.

Chief among the suspect positions was Campbells support for the so-called bathroom bill last year, a measure that failed. This alone should cause voters pause. Thoroughly decried by both rights advocates and the business community, the bill would have required transgender Texans to go to the bathrooms according to their genders at births. This was a carnival show distraction that made Texas a laughingstock and drew attention away from real issues.

This emphasis in the Legislature on hot-button cultural issues is one reason McClendon says she is running. Theyve hijacked my party and I want it back, she told us.

This, however, does not mean McClendons conservatism is in question. She was appointed to boards and commissions by Gov. Rick Perry, is a backer of private property rights, is a stalwart 2nd Amendment supporter and comes from a military family. She would emphasize infrastructure improvements for the state and the district, water issues and veterans services. She correctly favors more funding for public schools, recognizing that this is the key to keeping property taxes down. Campbell favors school choice, vouchers by another name. This will not help.

EDITORIAL: Multiple retirements drastically changes landscape at Bexar County courthouse

Campbell declined a board interview for this editorial.

On the Democratic side, there doesnt seem to be a lot of daylight between the views of the two Democratic candidates. Both support fuller funding of public education and infrastructure improvements.

Kling stands out on on his personal background. He is a former Army captain who has served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning a Bronze Star. He pledges to up support for the states veterans, would try to stave off state intrusions into local control (a very serious issue) and would restore access to womens health care, diminished by previous Legislatures. We recommend Kling.Shouting, lager, lager lager  mega, mega, mega, white thing  So went the lyrics to British band Underworlds 1995 hit Born Slippy. It would appear that those sentiments have been echoed recently in the local beer market. The much-maligned lager was a relative newcomer to the beer revolution but quickly became the biggest selling beer style worldwide. Often criticised for its perceived blandness, many drinkers have developed a love/hate relationship with this style. They hate it when that moment of beer sophistication strikes them at a bar, but they love it after mowing the lawns.

With the sweltering temperatures experienced in Aotearoa this summer, drinkers have been reacquainting themselves with this most quaffable of beer styles. Local brewers have a great history and reputation for making wonderful lagers. Sawmill Pilsner is a past NZBG Gold Medal winner and Waipus McLeods Brewery brew the current trophy holder, Longboarder Lager. More recently, we have seen Warkworth brewery 8 Wired enter this market with their first ever lager German pilsner, which became the fastest-selling beer they have ever produced. I sense confusion sneaking in as you read this. Yes, pilsner is a lager style, one that has its origins in the Bohemian city of Pilzen. The original pilsner, Pilsner Urquell, can be found on tap at the Puhoi Hotel.

Many New Zealand pilsners tend to be over-hopped for my liking and, while regular readers of this column will be aware of my penchant for all things hoppy, I feel that pilsners dont need to display such traits. This is where the locally made pilsners win for me. Lagers shouldnt be over-complicated.

Finally, this month sees the fine establishment that my wife, Silke, and I own, Tahi Bar, celebrate its 10th anniversary. Its now one of the oldest surviving continuously-owned craft beer bars in the country. We have always championed the little guy and strongly supported small innovative New Zealand brewers, and will continue to do so. The craft breweries have challenged multi-corporate brewing giants for a slice of our hard-earned cash and in doing so have changed the way many of us drink beer. We are extremely proud to have been a part of this evolving revolution. These days we are surrounded by superb, small award-winning breweries. Small people aspire, big companies acquire. Cheers to good beer.

Ian Marriott, Tahi Bar

www.tahibar.comTwo deep slips undermining a steep section of the popular Matakana cycleway have finally been fixed and filled after at least eight months of lobbying by Rodney Local Board and community group members. There had been fears that someone could easily fall into one of the two sheer drops either side of the track, just below Whitmore Road, and there were calls last winter for the path to be closed as a precaution. In the end, Auckland Transport erected safety barriers in early summer before repairing the damage at the end of January.









Share this storyEnvironmental groups and farmers are furious that a controversial weir on Te Arai stream remains largely intact after being led to believe that it would be removed entirely by the end of January.

The groups say the weir, installed by developer Te Arai North Limited (TANL), poses a threat to endangered New Zealand native birds by restricting fish passage upstream, which the birds depend on for food.

Their fears were confirmed by Auckland Council ecologists Matt Bloxham and Tim Lovegrove, who investigated the weir last year.

It is feared the weir could completely wipe out the New Zealand fairy tern, with a population of only about 40 birds.

Local farmers are also upset about the weir, blaming it for creating a water choke point that has exacerbated flooding on local farms.

The expectation that the weir was on its way out came after Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) granted TANL permission to access Crown-owned land to return the stream to its pre-2013 state, when no weir existed.

LINZ spokesperson Steven Law says permission was granted when Council informed LINZ that TANL was required to undertake the works to comply with a Council abatement notice.

But when environmental group representatives visited the stream to inspect the work earlier this month, they found the weir was still there and recent modifications to it were only cosmetic.

Those checking out the work were the convener of the Fairy Tern Charitable Trust, Heather Rogan, Save Te Arai chair Aaron McConchie and the vice-president of the Te Arai Beach Preservation Society, Reg Whale.

They say it looks as though some rocks and concrete have been chipped off the top of the weir, marginally reducing its height and making it look more natural, but this has done nothing to address the ecological problems it has created.

Ms Rogan, who previously expressed delight at the prospect of the weirs removal following the news from LINZ, says she is very disappointed.

Fish wont be able to get back upstream and the threat to the fairy terns remains, she says.

Local farmers are equally dismayed.

Dairy farmer Jill Parsons says prior to the installation of the weir, any flooding on their land would dissipate within hours.

Now it takes two to three days before the waters recede.

She says the minimal weir modifications will make no difference.

The concerns of farmers have been taken up by Rodney Local Board member Colin Smith.

Mr Smith says its imperative the weir is removed entirely to stop massive flooding.

The Council needs to stand up, get some balls, and pull this stinking thing out, he says.

But TANL maintains concerns about the weir are entirely unfounded.

Spokesperson David Lewis says TANLs engineering advice is that a landform downstream of the weir, which throttles storm flows, is the primary cause of upstream flooding, not the weir.

He says that the original construction of the weir included the installation of a fish passage structure, which both Department of Conservation and Council ecologists confirm is working.

He says the weir has had no detrimental effect on fish passage or bird life.

He adds that Council abatement notice only related to work TANL carried out from 2014 and Council has never required TANL to return the stream to its pre-2013 state.

Mahurangi Matters approached the Council for comment on this story, but received no response prior to going to press.Local News, Crime, Politics

By Long Island News & PR Published: February 12 2018

Four Month Investigation Reveals New and Egregious Examples of Sexual Misconduct By Harvey Weinstein and Repeated Violations of New York Law By Company Officials That Endangered Employees.

New York, NY - February 12, 2018 - New York Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman today filed suit against The Weinstein Company (TWC), Harvey Weinstein, and Robert Weinstein for egregious violations of New Yorks civil rights, human rights, and business laws. New York Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman today filed suit against The Weinstein Company (TWC), Harvey Weinstein, and Robert Weinstein for egregious violations of New Yorks civil rights, human rights, and business laws. The suit , filed today in New York County Supreme Court, includes new and extensive allegations about longtime company CEO Harvey Weinsteins (HW) vicious and exploitative mistreatment of company employees. Todays suit includes numerous employee-victim accounts of sexual harassment, intimidation, and other misconduct.

According to the Attorney Generals (OAG) lawsuit, despite many complaints to TWCs human resources department and widespread knowledge across the companys leadership of HWs persistent misconduct, TWC executives and the Board repeatedly failed to take meaningful steps to protect company employees or curb HWs misconduct.

As alleged in our complaint, The Weinstein Company repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation, and discrimination, said Attorney General Schneiderman. Any sale of The Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched. Every New Yorker has a right to a workplace free of sexual harassment, intimidation, and fear.

Todays lawsuit is the result of an ongoing four month investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG). The investigation included interviews with multiple company employees, executives, and survivors of Harvey Weinsteins sexual misconduct. The investigation also included an exhaustive review of company records and emails.

Specific examples of HWs harassment, intimidation, assault, and a hostile work environment alleged in the complaint include, among many others:

HW told several employees throughout the relevant time period that, in substance, I will kill you, I will kill your family, and You dont know what I can do, or words to that effect. HW touted his connection to powerful political figures and asserted that he had contacts within the Secret Service that could take care of problems.

At HWs direction, TWC employed one group of female employees whose primary job it was to accompany HW to events and to facilitate HWs sexual conquestsThese women were described by some witnesses as members of HWs TWC roster or his wing women. One of the members of this entourage was flown from London to New York to teach HWs assistants how to dress and smell more attractive to HW

A second group of predominantly female employees served as his assistants. HWs assistants were compelled to take various steps to further HWs regular sexual activity, including by contacting Friends of Harvey and other prospective sexual partners via text message or phone at his direction and maintaining space on his calendar for sexual activity.

A third group of predominantly female TWC employees a group of female executives  also were forced to facilitate HWs sexual conquests. These female employees job responsibilities should have been confined to using their expertise to help TWC produce films and television projects. Yet despite their skills and stated job responsibilities, HW required them to meet with prospective sexual conquests in order to facilitate HWs sexual activity, and to follow through on HWs promise of employment opportunities to women who met with HWs favor. This compelled service demeaned and humiliated them, contributing to the hostile work environment.

As one [female] executive reported to TWCs Human Resources department: only female executives are put in these positions with actresses with whom HW has a personal friendship, which to my understanding means he has either had or wants to have sexual relations with them. Female Weinstein employees are essentially used to facilitate his sexual conquests of vulnerable women who hope he will get them work. TWC took no steps to investigate these allegations or to prevent future recurrence of such conduct.

HW made quid pro quo offers or demands of sexual favors in exchange for career advancement at TWC, or to avoid adverse employment consequences at TWC.

On one occasion in 2015, HW asked a female TWC employee to go to his hotel room at the end of the day to set up his phone and devices for the next day or some other alleged work reason (work that TWC employees referred to as turndown service, and that was generally assigned to female TWC employees). Upon her arrival at HWs hotel room, HW appeared naked under a bathrobe and asked the employee for a massage. When the employee said no, HW cajoled, badgered, and insisted until she relented and, against her wishes, submitted to massaging him out of fear of employment-based retaliation by HW. The incident was reported to Human Resources and to executives and Board members of the company in November 2015, but TWC took no action to formally investigate the complaint, to protect employees from HW, or to prevent future recurrence of such conduct.

On other occasions in 2014 and 2015, HW exposed himself to a female employee and made her take dictation from him while he leered at her, naked on his bed. That same employee described how HW would insist that she sit next to him in the back seat of his chauffeured vehicle and would place his hand on her upper thigh and buttocks near her genitalia and rub her body without her consent. When she attempted to place bags or other barriers between them to make it harder for him to reach her, he moved the barriers or repositioned himself so that the unwelcome sexual contact could continue. This employee, and other TWC employees, believed that they would face adverse employment consequences unless they acquiesced to such demands.

On one occasion, HW asserted that he might have to fire a female employee because his daughter (for whom the employee was providing assistance at HWs direction) was angry with her, and he asked the employee what she was prepared to do to keep her job  a proposition that the female employee understood was a demand for quid pro quo sexual activity. The employee quit rather than submit to the demand for sex in exchange for continued employment.

HWs assistants were exposed to and required to facilitate HWs sex life as a condition of employment.

HW required his assistants to schedule personals for sexual activity both during the workday and after work. Upon arranging a personal, assistants were required to clear or adjust any and all other scheduled plans which potentially conflicted with the personal.

Assistants possessed copies of a document known as the Bible, an assistant-created guide to working for HW which was passed down through Assistants. The document sat in hard copy on several Assistants desks, and was accessible to and known to exist by some TWC executives. The Bible included information about HWs likes and dislikes, and a list of his friends with directions for assistants on how to arrange HWs extensive and frequent personals.

HWs drivers in both New York City and Los Angeles were required to keep condoms and erectile dysfunction injections in the car at all times, in order to provide them to HW as needed.

Specific allegations of misconduct by company management include, among others:

On more than one occasion, upon forwarding a complaint or information about a complaint to the COO, the Human Resources Director was not involved in any investigation or resolution process. Based on documents obtained by the OAG to date, such matters were handled by the COO and other members of TWC senior management, as well as counsel retained to contact victims of misconduct.

On numerous occasions during the relevant time period, victims of HWs misconduct complained to the Human Resources Director or to other TWC management about various aspects of the conduct described herein. On no occasion was HW subject to a formal investigation, nor to restrictions on his behavior or adverse employment consequences, as a result of any complaint.

Evidence gathered during the course of the investigation reflects that the Human Resources Director was not empowered to take any steps address HWs ongoing sexual harassment of female employees.

On certain occasions when individuals did complain to Human Resources, those complaints were not treated confidentially and investigated. For example, on one occasion, an assistant to HW wrote an email to Human Resources complaining of certain misconduct by HW. Soon thereafter, the assistant, who had access to HWs email account due to her role at TWC, saw that her complaint had been forwarded directly to HW via HWs email account.

On several occasions when TWC employees complained about serious misconduct by HW, TWC took steps to separate the employee from the company while securing an NDA that would prevent the employee from disclosing the misconduct to others or warning others about the misconduct.

Robert Weinstein (RW), as co-owner, co-Chairman, and co-CEO, was responsible for maintaining a safe workplace, free of sexual harassment and other unlawful conduct. Yet instead of doing so, RW acquiesced in allowing HW to create a hostile work environment and engage in sexual misconduct that was known to him, or which he was responsible for preventing.

RW also received by email in late 2014 and 2015, and was otherwise informed of, claims of repeated and persistent sexual harassment and misconduct, yet he took no measures to investigate further the claims of misconduct, to terminate HWs employment, to restrict or prohibit HW from supervising women or having or seeking sexual contact with TWC employees or women seeking to do business with TWC, from having private meetings with employees or women seeking opportunities in hotel rooms or TWC office space, or any other concrete measure that may have prevented HWs ongoing misconduct.

In response to the information obtained from TWC management, independent Board members sought to obtain access to HWs personnel file so that counsel representing the Board could use the personnel file and other information to evaluate whether the Board would recommend renewal of HWs contract. HW resisted the independent directors efforts to obtain a copy of his personnel file and otherwise investigate misconduct, on the purported grounds that the contents of the file would be leaked to the press if disclosed to the Board. There was no basis for this claim; instead, HW sought to prevent access to his personnel file to avoid discovery of the extent of his own misconduct. A majority of the Board refused to back the independent Directors efforts to obtain HWs personnel file; thus, efforts that may have resulted in discovery of at least a portion of HWs misconduct were not undertaken by the Board.

HWs contract extension also contained an unusual provision that effectively monetized, rather than prohibited, ongoing acts of sexual harassment and misconduct. In particular, it stated that, if TWC had to make a payment to satisfy a claim that you [i.e., HW] have treated someone improperly in violation of the Companys Code of Conduct, he would face escalating financial penalties: $250,000 for the first such instance, $500,000, for the second such instance, $750,000 for the third such instance, and $1,000,000 for each such additional instance.

This contract contained no provision for any penalties if HW personally covered the costs of any payments necessary to satisfy claims of improper treatment, and it provided for no adverse employment consequences in the event that one, two, three, or even four or more such payments had to be made by TWC and/or HW as a result of HWs sexual harassment or misconduct. Thus, pursuant to HWs employment contract, HW could continue engaging in sexual harassment and misconduct with impunity, provided that he paid the costs of any settlements and that he avoided disclosure of misconduct that might risk causing serious harm to the company.

Board minutes reflect that the Board ratified HWs new employment contract unanimously. No future efforts were undertaken by the Board to investigate HWs misconduct or TWCs practices concerning that conduct until HWs termination in October 2017.

As detailed above, according to OAGs investigation, none of the voluminous complaints filed with TWC Human Resources resulted in meaningful investigation or relief for victims, or consequences for HW. Instead, TWC Human Resources variously claimed there was nothing that could be done to address the misconduct; immediately informed HW of the complaint, thereby facilitating retaliation by HW against the complainant; or helped facilitate swift departure of the complainant from the company in connection with a settlement that contained an NDA at the direction of the HR Directors superiors.

TWCs culture of harassment and intimidation remained shrouded in secrecy because of HWs and TWCs practice of securing silence through Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) that prohibited individuals from speaking about their experiences at TWC. In October 2017, Attorney General Schneiderman opened an investigation after initial reports regarding HW  using the Attorney Generals investigative authorities, including investigative subpoena power, to begin removing that shroud of secrecy.

While the Attorney Generals investigation remains ongoing, OAG is bringing suit today to seek court intervention in light of its investigative findings to date and the reported imminent sale of TWC  which OAG has a substantive basis to believe would leave victims without adequate redress, including a lack of a sufficient victims compensation fund. OAG also believes that the proposed terms of the sale would allow the perpetrators or enablers of the misconduct to see a windfall, and allow top officials at TWC who share responsibility for the misconduct to serve in executive positions of the new entity  where they would again oversee the adjudication of HR complaints, including those of sexual harassment, intimidation, and assault.

Those who believe they were victims of or witnesses to the misconduct described in the complaint should call the Civil Rights Bureau hotline at 212-416-8250 or Civil.Rights@ag.ny.gov

The Civil Rights Bureau of the New York State Attorney Generals Office is committed to combating gender discrimination and sexual harassment faced by women across all industries. The Civil Rights Bureau encourages those who encounter such conduct to contact the office at 212-416-8250 or Civil.Rights@ag.ny.govLocal News, National & World News, Politics

By Long Island News & PR Published: February 12 2018

Schneiderman claims citizenship question would directly threaten states fair representation in Congress and Electoral College, billions in critical Federal funding, by undermining census participation among immigrants.

New York, NY - February 12, 2018 - Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman, leading a coalition of 19 Attorneys General and the State of Colorado, today urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to reject the addition of a citizenship question to the 2020 decennial Census, which would directly threaten states fair representation in Congress and the Electoral College, as well as billions of dollars in critical federal funds for programs like Medicaid.

Under the Constitution, the Census Bureau has an obligation to determine the whole number of persons in each state. Yet the addition of a citizenship question to the Census is expected to depress participation among immigrants, causing a population undercount that would disproportionately harm states and cities with large immigrant communities. Non-citizens are counted in the Census for the purposes of federal funds, apportioning of congressional seats and Electoral College votes, and the drawing of state and local districts.

Fair representation is at the heart of our democracy. Yet DOJs effort to add a citizenship question to our Census directly targets state like New York that have large, thriving immigrant populations  threatening our representation in Congress and the Electoral College and billions of dollars in federal funds on which New Yorkers rely, said Attorney General Schneiderman. With fear on the rise in immigrant communities, its no surprise that many families would be frightened to participate in a Census that asked about citizenship. Our coalition will continue to fight back against these sorts of draconian polices that seek to punish states like New York that embrace and celebrate our diversity.

The letter was led by New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, and California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, and signed by the Attorneys General of New York, Massachusetts, California, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington, and the Governor of the State of Colorado. The letter is available here

On December 12, 2017, the U.S. Department of Justice requested that the Census Bureau include a citizenship question on the 2020 census form sent to every household in the United States, even though the Census is supposed to count all personscitizens and non-citizens alike. The Department of Justice argued that the collection of such information was necessary to ensure proper enforcement of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Yet as the Attorneys General explain in todays letter, the Justice Departments proposal would have precisely the opposite effect by driving down participation in immigrant communitiesa concern that is even more acute in todays political climate. The resulting undercount would deprive immigrant communities of fair representation when legislative seats are apportioned and district lines are drawn.

To the extent that the Voting Rights Act requires a calculation of the number of eligible voters in a given jurisdiction, the Census Bureau provides an adequateand far less intrusivesource of citizenship information based on sampling, including the American Community Survey.

The letter emphasizes the irreparable harm that will result from inaccuracies in the 2020 Census caused by the inclusion of a citizenship question. The decennial census is used to apportion seats in the House of Representatives, and to determine the total number of delegates each state receives in the Electoral College. As a result, an undercount of population in states that are home to large immigrant communities will impair fair representation, a principle fundamental to the fabric of our democracy. In addition, hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funds are directly tied to demographic information obtained through the census, including Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program and Title I funding for local educational agencies. Consequently, inaccurate counts can potentially deprive states of much-needed funds designed to protect low-income and vulnerable communities.Local News, Community, Charity & Cause

By Long Island News & PR Published: February 12 2018

This fitting tribute will enable generations of New Yorkers to see the indelible mark Detective Steven McDonald left through his humanity and compassion.

Long Island, NY - February 12, 2018 - Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan (2nd Senate District), Senator Todd Kaminsky (9th Senate District) and Assemblyman Brian Curran (21st Assembly District) today joined with elected officials, New York Police Department leadership and the community to officially rename a portion of the Southern State Highway in honor of the late Detective Steven McDonald.

This fitting tribute will enable generations of New Yorkers to see the indelible mark Detective Steven McDonald left on our region through his humanity and compassion. While on duty in 1986 and with his wife Patty three months pregnant at home, then Officer McDonald was shot and paralyzed during an arrest. In an inspiring moment of forgiveness in 1987, while still in the throes of recovery, he forgave the man who shot him by saying through his wife: I forgive him and hope he can find peace and purpose in his life.

From the time of the shooting through his death, Detective McDonald had to rely on a respirator to breathe and use a wheelchair for mobility, but he found strength in his family and his religious beliefs to spend his life helping to foster peace and understanding in our region, our state and our nation.

To honor his legacy, the New York State Senate passed legislation this past June to rename the roadway. It ceremonially renames the section of the Southern State Parkway that runs from the Belt Parkway to the Meadowbrook Parkway as the Detective Steven McDonald Memorial Highway and directs the state Department of Transportation to post signage specifying the designation.

The bill (S6549) was jointly sponsored in the Senate by the entire Long Island Senate delegation, including Senators Elaine Phillips, Kemp Hannon, Carl L. Marcellino, John Brooks, Phil Boyle, Kenneth LaValle, and Thomas Croci, and former New York City police officer Senator Martin Golden.

Detective McDonald was a truly inspiring public servant who used his life, both before and after he was wounded, to bring hope to others. He is a true hero who showed us all what it means to be an exemplary human being. This designation will help be a reminder to all of Detective McDonalds sacrifices, his lessons of forgiveness, and the strength of his family and community in supporting him. I thank my colleagues for bringing this to reality and the McDonald family for allowing us all to learn what compassion means, stated Senate Majority Leader Flanagan.

Few people possess the courage and the capacity for forgiveness like Detective McDonald, said Senator Todd Kaminsky. I consider it a great honor to have known him. Our children do not have to rely on superhero movies to learn about heroics -- they just need to learn about Detective McDonald. This is a fitting tribute to a true hero and will ensure that his legacy of love and hope will endure for years to come."

Along with Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan and Senator Todd Kaminsky, I am proud to be a part of honoring Detective Steven McDonald with the renaming of the Southern State Parkway, said Assemblyman Brian Curran (21st Assembly District). Today it becomes official. The renaming of this highway honors the life, service, sacrifice and family of Detective McDonald. Every day when residents drive this stretch of highway bearing his name, they will be reminded of the extraordinary life he lived, but just as importantly the manner in which he lived it. Steven McDonald was a living symbol of peace and forgiveness and an example for all us. We are proud of Det. McDonald and we thank his family for their sacrifice.Local News, Health & Wellness

By Long Island News & PR Published: February 12 2018

Bellone: "We ask residents to obtain immunization against the flu to protect not only themselves but others."

Suffolk County, NY - February 12, 2018 - Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Health Commissioner Dr. James Tomarken today announced that the county will offer free influenza immunization to residents. The announcement follows Governor Cuomos declaration of a public health emergency in New York. All residents six months of age and older who have not already obtained their flu shots are urged to do so as soon as possible.

The health and wellness of our residents is of utmost importance, said County Executive Bellone. We thank Governor Cuomo for providing the funding to allow us to increase access to flu vaccines to help save lives.

We ask residents to obtain immunization against the flu to protect not only themselves but others who may be especially vulnerable to the flu, especially infants who are too young to be immunized, pregnant women, older residents and those with other health conditions that make them more vulnerable to flu, said Dr. Tomarken.

Flu shots are available for residents who are age two and older at local pharmacies and for everyone age six months and older at pediatricians and healthcare providers offices.

To find out where you can get a flu vaccine near you visit: Flu Vaccine Finder

For those who are unable to access flu immunization, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services will be providing flu immunizations tomorrow to all residents age four and over on:

Saturday, February 10, from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Suffolk County Department of Health Services

The department will be providing flu immunizations to all residents age six months and over on:

Tuesday, February 13, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Riverhead Library

330 Court Street in Riverhead . Enter on Osborne Ave.

Thursday, February 15, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

H. Lee Dennison Building Plaza

100 Veterans Memorial Building in HauppaugeFive People Arrested for Selling E-Liquid Nicotine to Minors, SCPD Reports

Local News, Crime

By Long Island News & PR Published: February 12 2018

In response to community complaints, officers conducted an investigation into the sale of e-liquid nicotine.

SCPD have arrested five people for selling vaping products to persons under the age of 21.

Suffolk County, NY - February 12, 2018 - Suffolk County Police have arrested five people for selling vaping products including e-nicotine to persons under the age of 21 years-old at businesses in Suffolk County Police have arrested five people for selling vaping products including e-nicotine to persons under the age of 21 years-old at businesses in West Islip Bay Shore and Brentwood , New York.

In response to community complaints, Third Precinct Crime Section officers conducted an investigation into the sale of e-liquid nicotine. Six locations were checked for compliance.

The following five clerks were arrested and charged with violating the Suffolk County Code regulating the sale of E-Cigarettes, which included liquid e-nicotine:

Joseph Attallah, 21, of West Islip, employed at House of Glass, located at 777 Udall Road West Islip, New York

Navjit Singh, 26, of Ozone Park, New York, employed at OK Gas, located at 221 West Main Street, Bay Shore, New York

Warnakulasuriya Kumara Fernando, 44, of Bay Shore, New York, employed at Valero, located at 1692 Union Blvd., Bay Shore, New York

Gokhan Kilinc, 39, of Islip, New York, employed at Shamrock, located at 645 East Main Street Bay Shore, New York

Cindy Arrue, 22, of Brentwood, New York, employed at Cloud 9 Smoke Shoppe, located at 128 Heyward Street Brentwood, New York

The following business complied, and refused the sale of e-liquid nicotine to minors:

Husco Vape Shop, 736 Main Street, Islip , New York

Investigators recovered 17 possible imitation designer belts at Cloud 9 Smoke Shoppe and a counterfeit investigation is ongoing.

The five people arrested are scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on a later date.According to detectives, patrol officers responded to a 911 call for an apartment fire on North Newbridge Road. East Meadow Fire Department , with the assistance of Levittown Fire Department , were at the scene and able to extinguish the fire. A 68 year old female resident of the apartment where the fire originated was transported to an area hospital for smoke inhalation. Numerous apartments were damaged due to the fire and smoke. The Red Cross was at the scene assisting approximately 20 displaced residents.Pets & Animal, Local News, Crime

By Long Island News & PR Published: February 12 2018

Reynaldo Bonilla, 40, was in possession of over 60 fighting roosters, fighting paraphernalia, a fighting ring, a neglected female pit bull, and drugs, police report.

Bay Shore, NY - February 12, 2018 - detectives arrested a Suffolk County SPCA detectives arrested a Bay Shore man on February 9, 2018 for owning and training roosters for the purpose of fighting and neglect of a female pit bull, living in deplorable conditions, with an untreated injury, following execution of a search warrant with Suffolk County Police Third Precinct Officers.

The joint investigation resulted in the charges being filed by both agencies. Also assisting were New York State Environmental Conservation Police who also brought charges for illegal possession of wildlife without a permit, Town of Islip Animal Control, Third Precinct Gang Section, Third Precinct Community Support Unit (CSU) and Emergency Services Section and Canine Section.

Reynaldo Bonilla, 40, was charged with possession of fighting birds and implements and animal cruelty by the Suffolk County S.P.C.A.

Suffolk County Third Squad detectives charged Bonilla with drug possession.

During the search, over 60 fighting roosters that showed evidence of being trained for fighting as well as fighting paraphernalia were seized by the Suffolk County SPCA. A fighting ring was also seized.

"Cockfighting is a cruel, barbaric practice that leads to other crimes. This successful investigation will help disrupt illegal bird fighting in Suffolk County and surrounding areas," said Chief Roy Gross.

Bonilla was arraigned in First District Court in Islip on February 10, 2018.

If convicted, Bonilla will be required by law to register with the Suffolk County Animal Abuse Registry. Each person registered in the registry shall remain on the Animal Abuse Registry for five years following his release and must notify of any change of residence.

Chief Gross said that animal cruelty will not be tolerated in Suffolk County. If you witness any incident of animal cruelty or neglect in Suffolk County please contact the Suffolk County SPCA at (631) 382-7722. All calls will be kept confidential.A fork lift truck was used in a suspected break in to a building site last night.

Firefighters from Maidenhead and Slough fire stations were called to the scene at 9.30pm as it was thought someone had fallen in the river.

The fork lift truck was hanging over the river bank by the former site of the Skindles Hotel, which is being redeveloped by Berkeley Homes.

Firefighters used thermal imaging cameras on the river and Thames Valley Police used a helicopter between Boulters Lock and the railway bridge.

No casualty was found but there was evidence of a break in on the building site.

Emergency services left the scene at about 11.30pm.It is clear that US imperialism and its lackey countries have increased aggression against Venezuela in recent weeks. The aim has been declared publicly: to trigger a coup d'etat against the government of President Maduro and allow the capitalist oligarchy to take control again. It is necessary to respond with revolutionary measures that strike a blow at the economic power of the oligarchy: the agents of imperialism in the country.

Let's look at the steps they have taken. On 1 February, the Secretary of State of the United States, Rex Tillerson, before starting a tour of several countries in the Americas, made a statement in which he raised the need for a military coup in Venezuela. "When things get so bad that the military command realizes that they can no longer serve the people, they will manage a peaceful transition," he said in a speech at the University of Texas, in which he renewed support for the Monroe Doctrine. Tillersons entire tour, which took him to Mexico, Argentina, Peru, Colombia and Jamaica, was intended to discuss the issue of Venezuela. During the same tour Tillerson raised the possibility of oil sanctions against Venezuela, affecting the import and refining of oil in the US. These sanctions would obviously have an even stronger impact on the economy than the financial sanctions already in effect. Tillerson boasted that plans were already on the table, only awaiting a decision by President Trump.

Admiral Kurt W. Tidd / Image: US Navy

Meanwhile, a call directly from Washington finally gave the instruction to the opposition not to sign an agreement in the Dominican Republic [ed: following talks with the Maduro government, detailed here]. That it receives its instructions directly from imperialism demonstrates again the treacherous and lackey character of the Venezuelan opposition. Both the opposition and imperialism understand it will be very difficult to win in the presidential elections [on 22 April], and have therefore launched a campaign of escalation of imperialist pressure to delegitimize, and in the process overthrow, the government by provoking a military coup.

The day after the oppositions withdrawal from talks, the European Parliament approved a motion demanding tougher sanctions against Venezuela. So far, European sanctions affect only some senior Venezuelan officials, but it is clear that an escalation is being prepared with the same objective as the US threats. None of this is taking place by coincidence. It is part of a campaign coordinated from Washington.

SOUTHCOM CDR @ADMKurtWTidd in #Colombia to discuss security cooperation w/ top leaders and get first-hand look at Colombia's peace-building and security efforts. @USEmbassyBogota pic.twitter.com/DJOkcqzrme  US Southern Command (@southcomwatch) February 9, 2018

On Thursday 8 February, Colombia and Brazil announced they were sending troops to their borders with Venezuela, citing the excuse of the "migratory and humanitarian crisis". Brazil announced it would double the number of forces patrolling the border between the two countries, while Colombia said it was sending 3,000 security personnel to the border, including over 2,000 soldiers. The day after the announcement, the Commander of the Southern Command of the US Army, Admiral Kurt W. Tidd, arrived in Colombia "to discuss security cooperation and examine Colombia's security and peace-building efforts firsthand." We all know what this language means. When the head of the Southern Command talks about peace efforts, we can be sure that they are preparing aggression.

Washington instructed the opposition to break off talks with the Maduro government in the Dominican Republic / Image: Hugoshi

At the same time, Peru announced the convening of the Lima Group on 13 February "to evaluate the measures that should be adopted in light of the development of the Venezuelan political situation", adding that calling presidential elections "would not allow a process fair, free, transparent and democratic ". The Lima Group is a body without any kind of legitimacy, which was created precisely when imperialism failed in its attempts to approve measures against Venezuela in the official organizations of the United Nations, the OAS and UNASUR. It is made up of Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay and Peru. What is scandalous is that none of these countries, all with right-wing governments, have opened their mouths regarding the scandalous electoral fraud in Honduras, nor the constant violation of human rights in Colombia and Mexico.

Brazil and Colombia are sending troops to their borders with Venezuela / Image: public domain

Finally, on 9 February, US Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican and one of the most ardent supporters of imperialist intervention against Venezuela, declared in a tweet that "The world would support the Armed Forces in #Venezuela if they decide to protect the people & restore democracy by removing a dictator". The hypocrisy of imperialism has no limits. While they support and install dictators, and participate in the organization of coups (Honduras, Venezuela, etc.), they allow themselves the luxury of talking about "restoring democracy and protecting the people".

The world would support the Armed Forces in #Venezuela if they decide to protect the people & restore democracy by removing a dictator  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) February 9, 2018

The new US charge d'affaires in Venezuela, Todd Robinson, has also adopted a very belligerent attitude since his arrival. The imperialist embassy in Caracas has published a scandalous communique supporting the withdrawal of the opposition from the talks in the Dominican Republic. Of course, Washington orders the opposition to withdraw and then supports the decision. In his first press conference in Caracas, Todd Robinson declared his intentions unambiguously:

"During my stay here, I will work to give voice to those who do not have it; and I will continue to speak with all sectors of society in such a way that they become agents of the change that we all desire."

Translated to the language of Cervantes: "I will work so that the oligarchy returns to the power and that this sector of the society can organize the coup that the US desires".

Imperialisms plan is therefore clear, diaphanous and publicly announced. They will not recognize the presidential elections because they know that their lackeys of the opposition can not in any way win them and will put all the necessary pressure, including asphyxiating the economy, into provoking a coup d'etat against the Maduro government.

We must oppose with all our forces this new offensive of imperialism, that is nothing more than the continuation of 20 years of attacks, threats and interference against the Bolivarian Revolution.

The United States denounces the decision by #Venezuelas National Electoral Council to unilaterally advance presidential elections. We support the decision by opposition parties to reject the regimes terms for elections that would not be free and fair. pic.twitter.com/JT7cThKB2v  Heather Nauert (@statedeptspox) February 8, 2018

To combat this threat effectively, it is necessary to take serious measures that destroy the base of imperialism within the country. We must begin by expropriating all the properties of multinational companies in the US and putting them under workers' control. Then we have to expropriate the companies of all the Venezuelan capitalists who are sabotaging the economy and supporting the efforts of imperialism to organize a coup d'etat. It is necessary to cease immediately the delivery of dollars and credits to the private companies that participate in the economic war and to apply the state monopoly of foreign trade and the centralization of all the banking in the hands of the state under the control of the workers. Stop handing out dollars from oil revenue to the enemies of working people.

The economic base of the oligarchy, which supports imperialism, must be destroyed, and working people given democratic control over the economy / Image: Lucha de Clases

These measures must also serve to lay the foundations for resolving the situation of serious economic deterioration that working people suffer. This will require putting factories, banks and latifundia [ed: large farming estates] in the hands of workers and peasants as part of a democratic plan of production to satisfy the needs of the masses. These should not provide profits to a parasitic capitalist oligarchy that is also financing a pro-imperialist coup in preparation. The best way to guarantee the unity of the working people in the fight against imperialist aggression is to resolve the shortages and the devaluation of the wages.

In addition, the peoples militia must be strengthened, and establish units in all large workplaces. Arming the workers and peasants is the best guarantee for the defense of the country. It is necessary to establish revolutionary organizations of soldiers and officers within the FANB. This revolutionary vigilance is the best guarantee against the plots that surely exist and are being prepared with the active participation of the US embassy.

It is necessary to combine these internal measures with an international appeal to defend Venezuela against imperialist aggression. We must establish direct links with workers' organizations and the rural poor throughout the continent, first of all in Brazil and in Colombia. The Colombian people are not our enemy; the Colombian oligarchy  agent of imperialism and class brothers of the Venezuelan oligarchy  is.

The imperialist aggression cannot be faced with calls for peace and dialogue, but with revolutionary measures to crush the economic power of the oligarchy that acts as an agent of Washington.

Original, Spanish language statement by the Class Struggle Marxist Tendency here.Following amendments to the labour code (adopted in September 2017) that made it easier to fire workers, Macrons government is now lashing out at the unemployed with a counter-reform to the unemployment insurance system. Negotiations with the trade unions should conclude in mid-February. The law is scheduled to be adopted this summer.

Shaming

On the 27 December, Le Canard enchaine (an influential satirical weekly newspaper) exposed the governments main aim: to toughen sanctions against the unemployed. The government accusing them of not wanting to work, of taking advantage of the system. They are seen as the guilty party, who ought to be punished: this is the message being used and abused by various mouthpieces of the Macron movement. Castaner, the president of LREM (La Republique en Marche!, Macrons political party), claims that the unemployed exploit their benefits to go on a two-year holiday. The Macronian MP Damien Adam is even more specific in his accusation: according to him, unemployed workers go on holiday to the Bahamas! Perhaps in five-star hotels?

According to the current policy, a job search considered insufficient  or a refusal to undergo further training  can lead to a 20 percent cut in benefits for 2-6 months. And if an unemployed worker refuses two job offers deemed reasonable, benefit payments are suspended for two months. Then, in case of another refusal, they can be cut off for good.

Damien Adam claimed unemployed workers spend their "holidays in the Bahamas" / Image: Antoine Lamielle

The government is proposing to toughen these rules, firstly by reducing benefits by 50 percent (instead of 20 percent) and secondly by making every unemployed worker fill in a monthly activity report. Pierre Gattaz (president of MEDEF, the main pro-business organisation in France) suggested monitoring job seekers daily. Why not put unemployed workers under judicial supervision, while were at it?

At the same time, no one is tasked with verifying whether the aforementioned job offers are valid, despite warnings from different sources, including CGT-Chomeurs (the state-recognised trade union representing unemployed workers), that a large number of these jobs are illegal or fictitious. Pole Emploi (the agency that registers unemployed workers and allocates benefits) would rather control and cross-off unemployed workers than verify job offers, which are directly published online by private companies.

By intensifying sanctions, Macron is trying to lower unemployment figures, not unemployment itself, by reducing the number of workers signed up with Pole Emploi. Of course, he also wants to implement budget cuts on the back of unemployed workers.

Organic unemployment

The root of the problem is an economic system that generates organic mass unemployment. Despite the current economic recovery, unemployment has stagnated at high levels. Over 2017, the number of category A job seekers (those required to actively look for work) only fell by 0.4 percent, amounting to 13,000 fewer unemployed workers. In other words, a drop in the ocean.

But in reality, unemployment is on the rise! Here is how CGT (Confederation generale du travail, one of the five most important trade unions) summarises statistics from Pole Emploi:

Job seekers in category A are 3,451,400. Categories B and C, which consist of people working under or over 78 hours a month, respectively, form a body of 2,160,900 precarious workers, which is growing at a rate of 8.2 percent a year. Thats a 4 percent increase in category B and 10.6 percent in category C. Category D (unemployed workers in training) is still decreasing at a rate of 18.3 percent per year, counting 277,400 today. Category E (workers in state-subsidised jobs) decreases with 8 percent each year. The total of the categories ABCDE brings us to 6,278,000 unemployed workers registered with Pole Emploi, i.e. a 0.8 percent yearly increase!

The reform proposal also includes putting an end to unemployment insurance contributions paid by wage workers, whose net salary will increase by the corresponding amount (very little). But this abolition will eventually bring about a change in the allocation of severance pay, which Macron now wants to fund through another tax, the CSG (contribution sociale generalisee: a proportional tax funding social security). But the state budget destined for unemployment insurance will no longer be managed by UNEDIC (Union nationale interprofessionnelle pour lemploi dans lindustrie et le commerce, one of the sub-agencies of Pole Emploi); the state will take it over and decide what to do with it, which means that the total amount of benefits will end up decreasing.

Public works and job sharing!

The system of unemployment benefits is highly unsatisfactory, and millions of unemployed workers are affected by poverty. It shouldnt be the workers who bear the cost of capitalisms crisis. While seeking a job, all unemployed workers must receive an income of at least 80 percent of the minimum wage, regardless of their age (starting from 18 years old) or professional experience.

The state underpays a mass of unemployed workers, while businesses force their employees to work overtime. These are the economics of the madhouse! From a capitalist point of view, this is logical. But we reject the insane logic of capitalism. Against the evil of unemployment, we put forth the programme of public works necessary to society (schools, hospitals, housing) and job sharing available to all workers, without a loss of salary.by Melynda Fuller , February 12, 2018

This is not a story about fake news. Rather, its one about how journalism can be used as propaganda to promote a regimes interests at home and internationally, silently and powerfully with the help of social media.

In a The Daily Beast story titled Grassroots Media Startup Is Supported by the Kremlin, a Berlin-based media collective called Redfish is investigated in full, revealing its ties to Russian state television and the Kremlin.

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Redfish declared it would dedicate itself to radical, in-depth grassroots features, which included several that promote Russias agendas internationally.

The story outlines one instance in which Vice praised a documentary about a fire in a British public-housing development that killed more than 70 people. Vice believed it was the product of an independent, amateur outfit. However, it was soon discovered the documentary had been playing on RT, Moscows state-supported television network.

The Daily Beast asks what exactly is Redfish and reports the company refused any comment for their story. The track record of many of the companys reporters paints a suspicious picture.

One prominent Redfish journalist, Elizabeth Cocker, worked for the propaganda arm of Moscow for seven years before joining the new outfit. Another reporter, Jelena Milincic, a correspondent for Redfish, has worked for Russian Television. As recently as October of last year, Milincic filed a Redfish story about the economic crisis in Venezuela that reached 120,000 views on Facebook.

Whats concerning about Redfish's work isnt that its promoting false claims in the media. Rather, it is pushing one powers agenda to sway followers of anothers, promoting itself as an independent entity  without the transparency to prove it.

Various governments have sought to undermine foreign powers and promote their own values. Think of the CIAs involvement with the Iowa Writers Workshop, or, as outlined in the Daily Beast story, that same organizations involvement in Radio Free Europe during the Cold War.

What is Redfishs intention? Is it to portray itself as an objective media outlet  while waging a coverage mission? The Daily Beast states, Redfish, likewise, makes no mention on any of its platforms of the place where its work has been most widely distributed: RT.by Karlene Lukovitz @KLmarketdaily, February 12, 2018

To mark its 10th anniversary, Chobani is launching a nationwide product giveaway, backed by what the company describes as its most ambitious multichannel campaign to date. The "One for All" push includes an Amazon Echo partnership, and employee outreach, in addition to traditional and digital media.

Today through March 4, consumers can visit Chobani.com/freeyogurt to download a coupon, redeemable at retail, for a free 5.3-ounce cup or bottle of the brands Greek yogurt, yogurt drink or Flip snack; or a two-pack of its Smooth (non-Greek) yogurt.

In addition, Chobani built an Alexa skill/command enabling the 30 million-plus U.S. Echo users to receive a coupon redeemable through the Amazon Fresh and Prime Now platforms. Custom online video on the Amazon platform will prompt Echo users to take up the offer.

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In total, Chobani estimates that it will give away more than 10 million yogurt products during the promotion.

The Chobani.com-hosted coupon offer is being promoted across multiple channels.

Two animated videos, now posted on YouTube, will also air on broadcast TV: A 30-second one (below), The Giving Tree, and a 15-second one, Lady Appleseed Delivers Across America.

The campaign also includes radio, online video and display ads, rich media banners, paid and owned social media, shopper media, PR, a care packages program for influencers.

Chobani is marshalling its 2,000 employees as brand ambassadors, as well. Each employee will be given an extra case of free yogurt products to give away, however they see fit, as a way of paying it forward in their own communities, according to the brand.

To kick off the campaign, Chobani is offering a multi-sensory, socially shareable experience in New York Citys Grand Central Terminal today. Attendees will be invited to travel through an interactive installation and plant virtual seeds that bloom into a digital fruit-tree canopy overhead. For each virtual seed planted, the company will donate a case of yogurt to No Kid Hungry.

Chobanis in-house creative team developed the campaign and its elements, including the videos/TV spots and the Alexa skill.

This campaign is the first since Chobani revealed an updated package design in November and declared an expanded mission of becoming a food-focused wellness company.

The evolution seems to hint at expanding beyond the yogurt category, as well as intensifying focus on the brands ongoing goals: Employing product innovation and marketing to win over consumers still not into yogurt, and driving yogurt consumption for occasions throughout the day and evening.by Ray Schultz , February 11, 2018

Equifax is under fire from reports that its 2017 data breach was more serious than previously believed, and that it included email addresses and tax ID numbers.

On Friday, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Paulino do Rego Barros Jr. , interim CEO of Equifax, citing what appears to be misleading, incomplete, or contradictory information provided to Congress and the public about the breach of data on 145 million Americans. She demanded answers within a week.

Equifax stated last year that hackers primarily accessed names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, and, in some instances, drivers license numberscredit numbersand certain dispute documents with personal identifying information, Warren said.

But The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday that hackers accessed "such data as tax identification numbers, email addresses, and drivers' license information beyond the license numbers [Equifax] originally disclosed," Warren added.

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She continued that Equifax failed to disclose any of this additional information to the public.

Equifax spokeswoman Meredith Griffanti told AP that "in no way did we intend to mislead consumers."

Griffanti added that the company provided the banking finance committee with a pretty exhaustive list, AP reports. We wanted to show them there was no stone unturned.

However, there still are several unanswered questions, according to Warren.

For example, Equifax revealed to Congress that attacker-accesses table contained Tax ID numbers, email addresses, and passport numbers, Warren stated.

But the firm is now claiming that passport numbers were not compromised -- despite informing the Committee that they were part of the "attacker-accessed tables,"she said.

Warren also alleged that the company continues to dissemble and downplay the significance, of the attack, and that it claims that email addresses arent considered sensitive personal information. She demanded the following answers within a week:

A list of all data elements that Equifax has confirmed were accessed by hackers in the breach.

A list of all data elements that Equifax has reason to believe may have been accessed by the hackers.

A timeline of the company efforts to confirm whether the data elements were accessed.

The process used by Equifax to inform the public that taxpayer identification numbers, email addresses, and drivers' license information were breached.

In a related development, Warren issued a critical staff report to Equifax last week, charging that the company had:

Failed to notify Congress and regulators about the breach in a timely fashion

Took advantage of federal contracting loopholes and failed to adequately protect sensitive IRS taxpayer data

Provided inadequate assistance and information to consumers following the breach

According to the report, Equifax was awarded 2,106 Federal contracts worth over $120 million by such agencies as the General Services Administration, the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, over the past decade.

Calling for federal legislation to prevent breaches, the report also stated that Equifax had a flawed system to prevent and mitigate data security problems, and that it performed feeble monitoring of endpoint and email security.

When a bank locks its doors at night, it doesnt levee the money on the counter in the assumption that nobody will break in, the report states. It locks the cash in the vault. Equifax, on the other hand, retained sensitive information on easily accessible systems.by Tanya Gazdik , February 11, 2018

Sixt Rent a Car has launched a Valentines Day-themed ad campaign with a twist of an ending.

The #ValentinesFairytale effort uses a three-minute film to rope viewers into a compelling tale of a late middle-age love story. Known around the globe for its unconventional advertising style, the German brand is bringing this approach to the U.S. with the debut of its Valentine's Day campaign from agency Thjnk in Munich and production house Tempomedia.

The worldwide affordable luxury car rental service has more than 2,000 locations in over 100 countries. Operating in the U.S. since 2011, the company has grown to become the nation's fifth-largest car rental provider.

"As with Super Bowl ads here in the U.S., consumers overseas famously look forward to the next splash we're going to make to capture their attention, said Daniel Florence, COO of Sixt USA, in a release. Fueled by our rapid expansion here, we felt that Valentine's Day 2018 was the right time to introduce Americans to this approach.

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The campaign centers on a lavishly produced TV spot, depicting an elderly woman in a rental car embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime road trip to places where she created memories with a long-lost love as she searches to connect. Featuring a surprising twist at the end, the ad ends with the line, "Okay, we can't do emotional. But we can do affordable." It is being distributed globally on digital channels, social media, in newsletters, and in advertising at airports and other locations.

Food brands seem to be taking the lead in celebrating the love-oriented holiday.

TGI Fridays and Pocky have collaborated to introduce Red Velvet Sparkler Cake, a dessert creation that is already getting attention via Tweets, Instagram posts and Facebook shares.This is the first time Ezaki Glico USA has collaborated with a major national restaurant chain since expanding to the United States in 2003. The new dessert features red velvet cake, layered with cream cheese frosting and topped with red and white sprinkles. It's served in a bowl of strawberry fizz candy clusters and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and topped off with Strawberry Pocky.

Einstein Bros. Bagels is offering heart-shaped bagels. The fun treats will be available for order between now and Valentine's Day in the flavors of chocolate chip, cranberry and plain. For last-minute purchases on Valentine's Day, the company will offer chocolate chip heart-shaped bagels for drop-in purchase.

Reservations for this year's White Castle Valentine's Day dinner are being made, but there are still a few left for last-minute Cravers looking for a unique Valentine's Day experience. For the first time since the event's inception, diners can now book reservations online through OpenTable.com or the OpenTable app. The unique dinner has been going on for 27 years.by Ray Schultz , February 11, 2018

Yahoo has brought a delicate question to the U.S. Supreme Court: who should have access to a departed persons emails?

The company has asked the court to overthrow a Massachusetts court decision stating that the federal Stored Communications Act (SCA) does not prevent Yahoo from releasing a deceased mans email account to his relatives, as Yahoo had claimed.

That ruling effectively eliminates personal privacy in email content after death by giving estate administrators complete control over those private communications, argues Marc Zwillinger, an attorney for Yahoo, in a petition to the High Court, according to the Boston Herald.

John G. Ajemian, age 42, was killed in a motorcycle accident in 2006. He died intestate, with no provisions made for the Yahoo email account he had set up four years earlier with his brother Robert.

In 2009, the Ajemian siblings sued in the Probate and Family Court, seeking full access to their brothers Yahoo account. But that court granted a summary judgment to Yahoo. The family appealed.

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Last October, Associate Judge Barbara A. Lenk, writing for the majority in the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, stated that the SCA does not stand in the way of Yahoo releasing the emails with the familys permission, thus throwing out the Probate and Family Courts judgment

The court did not order Yahoo to release the contents of the account  it simply overthrew the judgment in favor of Yahoo.

Lenk determined that Nothing in the statutory language or the legislative history of the SCA evinces a clear congressional intent to intrude upon State prerogatives with respect to personal representatives of a decedent's estate, she wrote.

Still at issue was whether Yahoos terms of service constitute a reason for refusing access. Lenk noted that there are issues of fact pertinent to the enforceability of the contract, and sent that matter back to the Probate and Family Court for review.

That remand drew a rebuke from Chief Justice Ralph D. Gants. While acknowledging that issues remained, Gants argued that the court should have simply dismissed Yahoos appeal instead of remanding that issue back to the Probate and Family Court.

The additional cost of further litigation is a financial pinprick to a Web services provider such as Yahoo, but it is a heavy financial burden on the assets of an estate, even a substantial estate, Gants wrote.by Sara Guaglione , February 12, 2018

The Memo will be Forbes Medias first full-fledged editorial team to focus on European content.

This is a strategic acquisition and part of a multiplatform initiative to grow and better serve our European readers and marketers alike," stated Forbes CEO Mike Federle.

The publisher has further plans to expand coverage and its contributor network across the continent.

Last week, Forbes Media announced it is launching Benelux and Monaco international editions starting this summer, to serve Monaco, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg.

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In 2017, Forbes hosted its first CMO Summit Europe and announced its first Under 30 Europe Summit this year, which will take place in Amsterdam. Forbes is also launching its CIO Summit Europe franchise in May.

The Memo was founded in 2015 and is based in London.

In an announcement posted to The Memos site, editor-in-chief Alex Wood said the new Forbes ownership will bring an end to its daily and weekly newsletters. In its place, The Memo will produce a European-focused newsletter for Forbes, which will launch very soon.

Alex Wood will become Forbes European editor.

Forbes London office will move to a bigger space in March.

A majority of The Memos articles will be moved to Forbes.com and live on the Europe homepage and sections. Starting March 1, The Memo's site will redirect to Forbes.com.

The Memo reaches over 630,000 unique visitors per month.

by Larissa Faw , February 12, 2018

Several advertisers are getting a bit cheeky in new ads that either make fun of themselves or their customers. The brands say it's all in good fun. Hopefully, customers will agree.

To coincide with New York Fashion Week, Diesel and its agency, Publicis Italy, are introducing an authentic knock-off store called Deisel on Canal Street, the city's mecca for fake goods.

The items at this Deisel store were actually one-of-a kind pieces specially crafted by Diesel design team disguised with fake Deisel branding. The project spread across social media and the agency developed its own entertaining video that documented the reactions of those who visited the pop-up experience.

We Are Social is introducing an internal project aimed at the lovelorn for Valentine's Day to demonstrate its creative and technological capabilities using the Lens Snapchat. The agency's #CynicalCupid provides words of romantic "wisdom" to interested recipients. Once the Lens is fully loaded, a pop-up will appear to unlock the animated spokesperson for 24 hours.

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Users can then ask Cynical Cupid "Will I ever find love?" and get one of a series of satirical answers which they are encouraged to record and share with followers and friends.

And Georgia Pacifics Vanity Fair premium napkins is also aligning with Valentines Day by illustrating how napkin-users make for better dates. Developed with creative shop Figliulo&Partners, the campaign incorporates messages like napkin users are 34% more likely to laugh at all your puns in ads and are 20% more likely to notice hair parted differently in ads running across online video, out-of-home and display.

Social media users are also encouraged to share the study results by tagging #DateANapkinUser.

Separately, McDonald's and agency Leo Burnett London are poking fun at coffee lovers to promote the chain's newest addition to the McCafe menu, the Flat White.

The ad features customers in numerous coffee shops trying to get a sensible explanation as to what exactly a Flat White is, only to be met with condescending faces, impenetrable descriptions and nonsense explanations.

Finally, a McDonald's employee tells the customer: Its like a stronger latte just with less milk, with the ad ending "Now at McDonalds."

In addition to the TV spot  running only in the UK and Ireland  the campaign includes Facebook support, out-of-home, radio, press, geo-texting and sales promotion vouchers.by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, February 12, 2018

Turn plans to argue that wireless users who are suing the ad company for allegedly violating their privacy didn't suffer any injury as a result of its practices.

The ad company will also argue that the lawsuit -- which centers on allegations that it used controversial "supercookies" for tracking -- should be thrown out on the grounds that consumers consented.

"Turn will seek dismissal on grounds that plaintiffs expressly consented to receiving tailored advertising from Verizons partners and to their collection of personal information in support of that activity," Turn says in papers filed Monday with U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey White in the Northern District of California.

The battle dates to 2015, when Verizon customers Anthony Henson and William Centron alleged in a class-action complaint that their privacy was violated by Turn.

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The ad tech company allegedly tracked Verizon wireless users via "headers" -- 50-character alphanumeric strings -- that Verizon injected into all unencrypted mobile traffic. Those headers enabled ad companies to compile profiles of users and serve them targeted ads. The headers, also known as zombie cookies, or "supercookies," allow ad companies to recreate cookies that users delete.

Turn recently settled Federal Trade Commission charges related to the headers.

Verizon used the headers for ad targeting between 2012 and 2015. The wireless carrier originally didn't let its subscribers opt out of the header insertions. But in 2015, faced with pressure from lawmakers, Verizon revised its policies in 2015 to allow opt-outs. The company later narrowed the program by saying it would only send the header to Verizon companies, including AOL.

When the tracking program first came to light, Verizon said that outside ad networks weren't likely to draw on the headers in order to compile profiles of Web users. But in January of 2015, researcher Jonathan Mayer reported that Turn was using Verizon's headers to collect data and send targeted ads to mobile users who delete their cookies.

Turn initially acknowledged that it used the headers for ad targeting and defended the practice, stating that the company uses the most stable identifier possible. Several days later, Turn said it had re-evaluated and would stop using Verizon's headers to target ads.

The ad company first fought the lawsuit by arguing that the matter belonged in arbitration because Verizon's contract with users called for arbitration of disputes. White agreed with Turn and ordered the case sent to an arbitrator, ruling that that questions raised by the matter "concern substantially interdependent and concerted conduct" between Turn and Verizon.

Last year, a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals reversed that decision. The appellate judges said Turn wasn't entitled to benefit from Verizon's arbitration agreement with customers.

Turn's new court papers mark the first time it has addressed the allegations since the appellate court returned the case to White. The company and lawyers for the consumers also say they will meet with a private mediator. If mediation is successful, the case could be resolved before trial.

In 2016, Verizon was fined $1.35 million by the Federal Communications Commission for allegedly violating the Communications Act's privacy provisions -- which require carriers to protect customers' "proprietary information" -- and a 2010 net neutrality rule requiring disclosure of broadband management practices. In addition to the fine, Verizon promised to obtain subscribers' opt-in consent before sharing tracking headers with a third party for targeted ad purposes.Researchers have uncovered the mechanism underlying the role of traffic and other environmental noise in the development of heart disease.

Share on Pinterest How does environmental noise contribute to heart disease risk?

The idea that heart disease may be caused by traffic noise could strike you as unlikely at first.

But growing evidence is linking environmental noise to the development of heart conditions including arterial hypertension, stroke, heart failure, and coronary artery disease.

Although healthcare providers will focus on traditional risk factors when they diagnose, prevent, and treat heart disease, ever more evidence is supporting the notion that risk factors in the physical environment may contribute to heart disease, as well.

Several studies have demonstrated an association between an increased risk of heart disease and traffic noise. However, these studies have previously been unable to pinpoint the mechanisms that may be active in noise-induced heart disease.

Now, the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has published a review investigating the potential mechanisms by which environmental noise may contribute to heart disease.It's not surprising that Narendra Modi is always meeting everyone from all around the world. He's always travelling, because #wanderlust, obviously, and he's always meeting new people, all for official purposes, of course.

Our favourite Prime Minister is always hanging out with other powerful world leaders all the time and we get so many pictures of him completely 'broing' out with all the people.

On the occasion of Hug day, we thought we would make your day better and celebrate friendship with the pictures of PM Modi hugging everyone and having the time of his life.

Side note  I also have a conspiracy theory that I would like to share with everyone. What if he's hugging the most powerful people in the world to just plant a bug on them? Is he trying to gain all the confidential information so that he can become the ultimate leader? Or, does he just want everyone to feel his 56-inch chest?

Disclaimer: In case it wasn't clear, the above paragraph was a joke, obviously, so please don't come after me and ask me to change my last name from Bhatia to 'Ghatiya'. Okay, thanks!

Let's move on to see our dear Prime Minister being the best bro anyone could ever have.

Let's start with the latest one  PM Modi meeting Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

Reuters

Well, the next hug is with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Reuters

Wait, there's more hugging.

Reuters

Then, we have a picture of him hugging his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe.

Reuters

Now, it's time for Donald Trump.

Reuters

Trump and Modi hugging deserves to have more than one picture up here, so.

Reuters

Just one more.

Reuters

Now, comes the picture of PM Modi receiving a warm welcome by his Portuguese counterpart Antonio Costa.

Reuters

A nice hug for French President Emmanuel Macron.

Look how happy both of them look.

Reuters

Next in line to get hugged is none other than Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Reuters

Now, let's have a look at some kinda awkward stuff with former French President Francois Hollande.

Twitter

Ummm.

We also have our very own Baba Ramdev here as well.

Reuters

He has also hugged Mark Zuckerberg.

AP

And, Hugh Jackman as well.

Reuters

And lastly, how can we forget Barack Obama.

Reuters

There's one more, just for good measure.

ReutersOn April 12, 1861, the bloodiest conflict in American history began when Confederate forces attacked a Union-controlled fort in South Carolina.

It was the first act of aggression mounted by the Confederacy, which had formed just a few months earlier.

150 YEARS LATER: Confederate memories still linger in Texas

At the time, Texas had only been a state for 16 years, but it too joined the Confederacy despite protest of Sam Houston, who was replaced as the state's governor because of his refusal to pledge an oath of allegiance to the rebellion.



Roughly 3 million men, 90,000 of them Texans, participated in the war. By the end of the conflict 620,000 died, or roughly 2 percent of America's population. The introduction to Ken Burn's "The Civil War" best explains why the bloodshed is so surreal even to this day:

"American homes became headquarters, American churches and schoolhouses sheltered the dying, and huge foraging armies swept across American farms and burned American towns. Americans slaughtered one another wholesale, right here in America in their own cornfields and peach orchards, along familiar roads and by waters with old American names."

IN PHOTOS: Civil War-era maps show Texas, Gulf of Mexico in new light

The last battle of the war took place in Texas, near Brownsville, and actually ended in a Confederate victory. According to the Texas State Historical Association, when the victorious commander interviewed captured Union prisoners, he learned that Confederate forces were surrendering throughout the South.

Shortly after, despite the general who oversaw Texas during the war attempting "to keep his command intact," he "found his soldiers heading for their homes."

Click through to see the most eerie and rare photographs of the civil war.Middletown police reported the following arrests:

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: Harvey Lapan Jr., 35, of Hemingway Avenue, East Haven, was arrested Feb. 2 on an outstanding warrant and charged with threatening and disorderly conduct. He was released on $10,000 bail and will appear next in court March 18.

PROTECTIVE ORDER: Jasmine Szostek, 32, of Loveland Street, was arrested Feb. 5 on an active warrant and charged with violation of a protective order. She was released on $5,000 bail and will appear next in court March 12.

ASSAULT: Ashley Laden, 21, of Main Street, was arrested Feb. 3 and charged with violation of a protective order, third-degree assault, risk of injury to a minor and disorderly conduct. Laden and an individual who had a protective order against her got into an argument that turned physical. She reportedly head butted the individual and punched the person several times in the face. During the argument a 20-month-old child was present, police said. She was released on a promise to appear Feb. 16 in court.

DUI: Gordon Cook, 55, of Braeburn Lane, was arrested Feb. 3 on an outstanding and charged with traveling too fast for conditions and operating under the influence. He was released on $5,000 bail and will appear next in court Feb. 20.

EVADING: Rajmund Trzcinski, 38, of West Meadow Lane, was arrested Dec. 19, 2017, and issued a misdemeanor summons for evading responsibility and failure to drive right. He is accused of leaving the scene of a two-vehicle accident. He was released on a promise to appear Feb. 7 in court.

BURGLARY: Kareem McDaniel, 40, of Rapallo Avenue, was arrested Feb. 5 on an active warrant and charged with first-degree burglary, criminal trespassing and criminal attempt to commit sixth-degree larceny. He was held in lieu of $100,000 bail and will appear next in court Feb. 21.

POSSESSION: Kevin Joseph, 29, of Stadler Street, Belchertown, Massachusetts, was arrested Jan. 29 and charged with operating a motor vehicle under suspension, misuse of registration plate, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, failure to have minimum insurance and possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana. He was released on $2,500 bail and will appear next in court Feb. 13.

POSSESSION: Cady Harrigan, 23, of Steves Lane, was arrested Feb. 1 and illegal possession of narcotics for reportedly having heroin in her possession. She was released on $5,000 bail and will appear next in court Feb. 15.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: Doris White, 50, of Liberty Street, was arrested Feb. 6 and issued a misdemeanor summons for disorderly conduct for reportedly hitting a person she knew in the head. She was released on a promise to appear in court the same day.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: June Wesoja, 59, of Rising Trail Drive, was arrested Feb. 6 on an active warrant and charged with disorderly conduct. She was released on a promise to appear in court Feb. 21.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: Michael Mangini, 27, of Sisk Street, was arrested Feb. 7 on an active warrant and charged with disorderly conduct. He was released on a promise to appear in court Feb. 16.

FAILURE TO APPEAR: Danisha Hoggard, 23, of Glover Place, was arrested Feb. 7 on an active warrant and charged with failure to appear. She was released on $2,500 bail and will appear next in court Feb. 22.

INTERFERING: Deshaun Watson, 34, was arrested Feb. 6 and issued a misdemeanor summons for disorderly conduct, interfering with an officer and criminal mischief. He is accused of arguing with a woman he knew and punching her bedroom door, causing it to break. When an officer patted him down, Watson reportedly became uncooperative and shoved the officer. He was released on a promise to appear in court Feb. 21.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: Laquan Bond, 26, of Wallace Street, New Britain, and Amelia Bond, 31, of Traverse Square, were both arrested Feb. 6 and each issued a misdemeanor summons for disorderly conduct. Amelia Bond was also issued a summons for criminal attempt to commit third-degree assault. The two reportedly got into an argument that turned physical, with Laquan Bond allegedly punching Amelia Bond and her reportedly getting a small kitchen knife. Both were released on a promise to appear. Laquan Bond will next appear in court Feb. 9 while Amelia Bond will next be there Feb. 28.

RESTRAINING ORDER: Bobby Irish, 20, of Thomas Street, was arrested Feb. 6 and charged with violation of a restraining order for reportedly going to the home of the person who has the restraining order. She was released on $5,000 bail and will appear next in court March 12. He was held in lieu of $10,000 bail and issued a court date of Feb. 9.

PROBATION VIOLATION: John Dube-Gallo, 42, of Town Colony Drive, was arrested Feb. 8 on an active warrant and charged with violation of probation. He was held in lieu of $15,000 bail and issued a court date for the following day.

FORGERY: Violet Rivera, 23, of Broad Street, was arrested Feb. 9 on an active warrant and charged with third-degree forgery and sixth-degree larceny. She was released on $500 and issued a court date of Feb. 21.

ASSAULT: Timothy Albro, 23, of Fox Hollow Road, Old Saybrook, was arrested Feb. 8 on an active warrant and charged with assault on a health care personnel and breach of peace. He was released on a promise to appear Feb. 21 in court.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: Nicholas Gianfredi, 32, of Liberty Street, was arrested Feb. 8 and charged with disorderly conduct for reportedly attempting to strangle a woman he knew and throwing her across the kitchen floor. He was released on $1,500 bail and issued a court date for the following day.MIDDLETOWN  The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerces 2018 Legislative Breakfast will be held on Friday, Feb. 16.

This event will begin at 8 a.m. and will be held at the Courtyard By Marriott, Cromwell, at 4 Sebethe Drive. The 2018 Legislative Breakfast is hosted by the Chambers Legislative Committee, Co-Chaired by Richard Carella, Updike, Kelly & Spellacy and Maureen Westbrook, Connecticut Water Company.

This event is sponsored by Comcast. The Chambers Legislative Committee will be presenting the organizations 2018 Public Policy Agenda to legislators that represent Middlesex County towns.

The annual Legislative Breakfast represents a great opportunity for our members to network with the important elected leaders that represent Middlesex County in the General Assembly. We look forward to another successful event and thank all of the legislators that plan to attend along with the many chamber members from a wide variety of industry sectors that will participate. The chamber remains committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County, and we will certainly stay engaged with our delegation and with legislative leadership in the coming weeks and months, said Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee co-chairs Rich Carella and Maureen Westbrook, in a statement.

The following members of the Connecticut General Assembly have been invited to attend: State Representatives: Vin Candelora, Melissa Ziobron, Devin Carney, Christie Carpino, Joe Serra, Buddy Altobello, Noreen Kokoruda, Matt Lesser, Bob Siegrist and Jesse MacLachlan; Senators: Paul Doyle, Len Fasano, Art Linares, Len Suzio, and Ted Kennedy Jr.

For more information, visit www.middlesesxchamber.com or contact the Chamber office at 860-347-6924 or info@middlesexchamber.com.

Association to hold family caregiver series

MADISON  The Alzheimers Association, Connecticut Chapter is offering a free four-part Caregiver Education Series for family and friends of people with any type of dementia, including Alzheimers disease. This four part series will take place at St. Margaret Parish Center, 39 Academy Street, Madison, CT. A light dinner will be served. The classes will run on four consecutive Thursdays, beginning March 1 from 6-7:30 p.m. Guest speakers will address the following topics:

March 1 - Overview of Alzheimers Disease and Other Types of Dementia

March 8 - Effective Communication Strategies and Strategies for Dementia-Related Behaviors

March 15 - Keeping the Caregiver Healthy, Community Resources, and Family Relationships

March 22 - Legal and Financial Issues

For questions or to register for one or more sessions in this free education series, contact the Alzheimers Association at 1-203-230-1777, ext. 14 (Hamden Office) or mtomasetti@alz.org. Pre-registration is requested to help plan for materials and dinner.

Church presents new prayer service

EAST HADDAM  St. Stephens Episcopal Church is offering a Wednesday evening prayer service built upon the Celtic Christian tradition. The first service was held Feb. 7. This quiet and meditative prayer service begins at 7 p.m. and lasts for about half-an-hour. This is an opportunity to find an oasis in the midst of busy lives where you can sit and be still with God. This service is open to any person who hungers for rest in the divine and is seeking a deeper connection with God, regardless of their religious background, church members said.

The Celtic Evening Prayer Service places an emphasis on silence, meditation, the mysteries of our faith, and creation. Celtic Spirituality draws its inspiration from the earliest manifestation of Christianity as well as the wisdom of pre-Christian Ireland. The prayers of the Celtic Saints are filled with the experiences of Gods presence in creation, the simplicity of living in harmony with creation, and the awareness of the sacredness of all things. In the prayers, the passion, and the practice of the faith in the early church on these islands, there is a clarity, simplicity and wisdom that speak to many of todays concerns, members said.

St. Stephens is located at 31 Main St., East Haddam, and can be reached at 860-873-9547. For more information visit www.ststeves.org.TRUMBULL  When John and Carol Berczuk first laid eyes on 180 Strobel Road more than 20 years ago, they saw a lot they wanted to change  and one thing they wanted to keep relatively the same.

That would be the 51-by-15-foot indoor pool nestled inside the 4,696-square-foot Colonial.

That is why we bought the house, Carol Berczuk said.

Carol Berczuk said the house has been the site of many family gatherings. When she and her husband announced they were selling it, she said, one relative expressed sadness because they couldnt imagine Christmas without the house and its pool.

The Berczuks feel the same about the home, listed at $750,000, but they are moving to be closer to their family members.

I love it and I hate to leave it, Carol Berczuk said.

The pool is central to her affection, and that of nearly anyone who glimpses it.

Indeed, the pool and the 2,000-square-foot room that houses it combine to create the focal point of the house. The minute a visitor walks through the front door, they can glimpse the indoor oasis, visible through glass walls at the back of the homes living room.

In addition to the 30,000-gallon pool the room offers skylights, walls of windows that look out onto a vast property, and what can only be described as an indoor patio.

Just off one end of the pool is an area where families can entertain, just as they would with an outdoor swimming spot. It offers a wood burning fireplace, wet bar, a gas grill, and the Berczuks have even outfitted the area with the kind of wicker furniture youd see on an outdoor patio. The room is paneled with pecky cypress, a moisture-resistant wood that has been used in ship building.

Carol Berczuk said the pool is actually easier to maintain than an outdoor pool because it doesnt involve leaf cleaning.

Though the pool was in the house when the Berczuks bought it, the room surrounding it has been updated, as has much of the rest of the house, which was built in 1963.

A Belgium block, blue stone path was installed outside. The kitchen was totally redone, adding Brazilian granite countertops and top-of-the-line appliances. In fact, Carol Berczuk said, much of the downstairs was changed because it was cover with cedar. It looked like a log cabin.

The house has four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, and sits on roughly an acre of property that includes a pond and waterfall.

But its really the pool thats at the heart of the house.

Anybody who is into swimming will love this, said listing agent Jay Cannone.

Do you know of a house or apartment building with an interesting story? Contact acuda@ctpost.com, and the home could be featured in an upcoming installment of Habitat.The U.S. Army's proposed fiscal 2019 budget would add 4,000 soldiers to the active force and purchase large quantities of long-range missiles and artillery shells.

The service's $182 billion request, including war funding, marks a $13 billion, or 15 percent, increase from its fiscal 2018 request of $169 billion.

With a $148 billion base budget and a $34 billion Overseas Contingency Fund, the fiscal 2019 request improves readiness and restores end-strength and "invests appreciably" in Army modernization efforts, "providing our Army with technological overmatch," Maj. Gen. Paul Chamberlain, director of Army Budget, told reporters at budget briefing Monday at the Pentagon.

The active Army's personnel budget requests $43.7 billion compared to last year's $41.5 billion request. It would boost the number of active-duty soldiers from 483,500 to 487,500. If approved, the 4,000 additional soldiers would be used to resource fires, air defense and logistics units, Chamberlain said.

"The resources applied in this budget for additional end-strength will increase unit readiness levels and support the creation of select units to acquire necessary capabilities taking significant steps toward the Army's warfighting readiness and increasing the Army's capacity for force-on-force decisive action," he said.

The National Guard would hold steady at 443,500 as would the Reserves with 199,500, according to budget documents.

One of the biggest increases in the Army's fiscal 2019 budget request is in the procurement line -- used to buy weapons and munitions -- which is budgeted at nearly $27 billion, an increase of $5.7 billion, or 27 percent, over the current year, according to the documents.

To counter near-peer threats, the request provides "critical munitions for combatant commanders" within the procurement account, said Davis Welch, deputy director of Army Budget. "We are replenishing wartime stocks piles of preferred and advanced munitions to increase lethality," he said.

The request would pay for 148,287 155mm artillery projectiles compared to last year's purchase of 16,573. It also buys 9,450 Guided Multi Launch Rocket Systems compared to last year's purchase of 6,084.

"This is a long-range missile, about 40 miles in range," said David Norquist, comptroller and chief financial advisor for the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense.

"It's useful for the high-end fight when you are dealing not with the assumption of air superiority but when you are trying to suppress the enemy's defenses; you need to be able to reach them from a distance."

The budget request also purchases 404 Army Tactical Missile Systems over last year's 122 -- a 62 percent increase in the ATACMS Service Life Extension program, Welch said.

The spending plan also boosts modernization of armored combat vehicle fleet with an increase of $4.5 billion over last year's $2.4 billion request.

If approved, it would buy 3,990 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles compared to last year's purchase of 2,498.

The request also would buy 197 new Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicles, which are designed to replace the Vietnam War era M113 personnel carriers. Last year's request purchased 107 AMPVs.

The purchase of 135 modernized M1 Abrams tanks over last year's purchase of 56 would feature enhancements such as second generation Forward-Looking Infrared Radar in the gunner's primary sight and a commander's independent thermal viewer, Welch said, adding that at the new Abrams will also have an upgraded armor package and improved engine and transmission.

The budget request cuts aircraft procurement budget to $3.8 billion compared to last year's $4.2 billion request.

This request replaces older UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters with 50 of the latest M model, which offers improved situational awareness and improved rotor blade and engine performance.

The new multi-year build contract "represents a cost avoidance of over $500 million" between FY 2017-2021, Welch said.

Additionally, the request procures seven "special operations" CH-47M Chinook aircraft, which features a more sophisticated avionics package than earlier models, Welch said.

The Army is also requesting $10. 2 billion in RDT&E efforts compared to last year's 9.4 billion request.

It will funding toward programs such as Mobile Protected Firepower, combat vehicle prototyping, long range precision fires and Short Range Air Defense, or M-SHORAD.

The request also realigns $239 million out of the Science and Technology portfolio to support the service's six new modernization priorities -- long-range precision fires, next generation combat vehicle future vertical lift, a mobile and expeditionary network, air and missile defense capabilities and soldier lethality.

-- Matthew Cox can be reached at matthew.cox@military.com.The new details not only shed light on what may have triggered the incident, but may also help to explain how five other...At the end of January 1968, North Vietnamese forces and Viet Cong guerrillas launched the Tet Offensive, hitting more than 100 towns and cities across the south. The attack took American and South Vietnamese troops and leadership by surprise.

Although much of the offensive was repelled and most of the communists gains were recaptured quickly, the effect it had on U.S. war planners was much more far-reaching. The overall commander of American forces in Vietnam, William C. Westmoreland, asked for more troops.

He wanted paratroopers. Specifically, he asked for paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne.

On Feb. 12, 1968, the United States tapped the 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division to answer the call. The men of the 82nd were getting ready for a night out on the town -- but the Army stopped them in their tracks.

"There was no question in anybody's mind that was exactly where we were going," Bob Murill, then a second lieutenant, told the Fayetteville Observer in North Carolina. "But we didn't get the actual orders until we were on the plane and outside the continental U.S."

Instead of dressing for an evening in the bars and clubs of Fayetteville, they switched gears, dressing instead for a combat deployment to the jungles and firebases of South Vietnam. America was playing its trump card.

The 3rd Brigade was often called on for its ability to deploy rapidly, anywhere in the world, at home or abroad. In 1965, the brigade deployed to the invasion of the Dominican Republic. In 1967, it conducted an airborne exercise in Puerto Rico and a little more than two months later was sent to Detroit to restore order after a riot engulfed the city.

Everything the 3rd Brigade touched turned to gold; hence the nickname, The Golden Brigade.

Just days before the launch of the Tet Offensive, the 3rd Brigade was preparing to mount an assault to retake the USS Pueblo, a Navy ship that was captured by North Korea in international waters. That mission never happened. By Valentines Day 1968, they were on their way to Vietnam.

"We're the 82nd Airborne," Patrick "Paddy" Barry, a combat engineer with 3rd Brigade, told the Fayetteville Observer. "We're not going to play tiddlywinks. We're going over there to arrange a meeting between the enemy and his maker."

The unit was seen off by none other than President Lyndon B. Johnson himself. After a brief speech and best wishes, the paratroopers responded with, All the way, sir!

Johnson gave his own reply: Airborne.

President Lyndon B. Johnson greets deploying members of the 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division in 1968. (U.S. Army)

The Golden Brigade spent 22 months fighting in Vietnam, losing 227 men in near-constant operations in the country. It started with helping retake the last communist holdouts left over from the Tet Offensive. The men of the 82nd performed constant patrols, mine-clearing and hunter-killer missions.

In 2018, the men of the Golden Brigade planned a celebration that would do justice to the men who left Vietnam with just two weeks' notice or less, and spent more than a year there in support of their country and fellow soldiers.

On top of a series of events at Fort Bragg during All America Week, the veterans of the Golden Brigade planned a large reunion in West Point, N.Y., that June. Hundreds of 3rd Brigade veterans were in attendance.

The story of the Golden Brigade in Vietnam was recounted in detail by author Robert J. Dvorchak in his 2020 book, The Golden Brigade: The Untold Story of the 82nd Airborne in Vietnam and Beyond.

-- Blake Stilwell can be reached at blake.stilwell@military.com. He can also be found on Twitter @blakestilwell or on Facebook.

Want to Learn More About Military Life?

Whether you're thinking of joining the military, looking for post-military careers or keeping up with military life and benefits, Military.com has you covered. Subscribe to Military.com to have military news, updates and resources delivered directly to your inbox.The Air Force will begin retiring its B-2 Spirit and B-1B Lancer bombers in the 2030s as it builds up its new B-21 Long Range Strike Bomber fleet.

The service will also pump more money into the B-52 Stratofortress platform, according to a service announcement Monday.

The new "Bomber Vector" strategy comes with the service's fiscal 2019 budget rollout to allocate more resources for the nuclear-capable B-52.

The Air Force is pushing for a major engine overhaul for the BUFF, or "Big Ugly Fat Fellow," as it intends to keep the long-range B-52 flying into the 2050s.

Related content:

"As part of our decisions presented in the FY19 President's Budget, the Air Force will update the B-52 bomber fleet and fund development of replacement engines," said Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson. "We will also continue necessary B-1 and B-2 modifications to keep them relevant until the B-21s come on line."

Once sufficient B-21 aircraft are operational, the B-1s and B-2s will be incrementally retired, the service said in the release.

"Delivery and retirement timelines are dependent on the B-21 production and delivery schedules," the statement said.

"If the force structure we have proposed is supported by the Congress, bases that have bombers now will have bombers in the future," Wilson added. "They will be B-52s and B-21s."

The nonnuclear B-1s will stick around until 2036 and the B-2 until at least 2032, according to a draft report of the Vector roadmap, first obtained by Air Force Magazine.

That's enough time to bring in new pilots, train them and have them fly each bomber for at least 15 years.

The B-1 retirement has been expected for some time. B-1 operators recently told Military.com they are keeping in mind how their mission may shift in preparation for the B-21 Raider -- the Pentagon's latest classified, multi-billion-dollar program in development by Northrop Grumman Corp.

"We try to posture ourselves as best we can so that if the [B-21 Raider] does come here -- leaders, our senior leaders make that decision to bring it here -- that we're ready," said Col. Brandon Parker, 7th Bomb Wing commander, during a roundtable discussion Dec. 18 at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas.

"But until it comes, we're going to fly these B-1s ... full speed ahead. We're an afterburner, and we're going to go as full speed ahead as best we can," he said.

The B-2, the Pentagon's most advanced stealth bomber, will continue to degrade in technology compared to the B-21, which will have both nuclear and non-nuclear roles.

Conventionally, the B-21 can go after multiple targets, but can carry out only one nuke drop at a time. The first B-21s are expected to reach initial operating capability in the mid-2020s.

What's most telling about the latest plan is how much the Air Force is willing to invest in the Cold War-era Stratofortress.

According to fiscal 2019 budget documents, the service is requesting $280 million for B-52H upgrades, a $168 million increase from the previous year. That includes money to "modernize our bomber fleet to include development of the B-52H replacement engines," according to the documents.

Compared to its bomber cousins, the B-52's longevity, endurance and payload will continue to expand, argued Joe Biles, a B-52 weapons officer and instructor weapons system officer in the Air Force Reserve.

"The B-1 community (I don't blame them) frequently cites the statistic that they can carry (75K vs 70K [pounds] of weapons) a larger payload than the B-52," Biles Tweeted on Sunday. "In reality, those are theoretical payloads. The actual loadout that gets closest to using that capacity on either jet is a full load of AGM-86B ALCM on the B-52, weighing in at 62,660 lbs."

The B-52 is losing the Air Launched Cruise Missile, or ALCM. The Long Range Standoff Weapon program, known as LRSO, will replace the AGM-86B ALCM, developed in the early 1980s.

The Pentagon awarded Lockheed Martin Corp. and Raytheon Co. contracts to begin preliminary work on LRSO in August.

Biles went on to say that while the B-1 can carry more GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munitions and Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles, or JASSMs, it lacks in JDAM variants because of spacing issues in its weapons bay.

By comparison, with its new conventional rotary launcher, the B-52 has the ability to launch 24 precision-guided bombs -- a new record the aircraft recently set in Afghanistan.

The service wants to procure 100 of the Raiders, named after the Doolittle Raiders.

The Air Force currently has 62 B-1B Lancers, 20 B-2 Spirits, and 76 B-52 Stratofortresses, totaling 158 bombers, according its inventory.

It intends to have 61 B-1s by fiscal 2019, the documents show.

-- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214.As a second rotation of Marine advisers begins work in Helmand province, Afghanistan, and other units continue to fight ISIS in the Middle East, a new budget request features a significant increase in big guns and artillery rockets -- as well as a plus-up of some 1,100 Marines.

The Marine Corps baseline budget request for fiscal 2019 is $27.6 billion, up from $26.3 billion the previous year. On top of that is another $1.3 billion in OCO funding, a figure that is staying steady from 2018.

There are some significant procurement outlays as the Marine Corps makes big investments in its CH-53K King Stallion, slated to replace the CH-53E Super Stallion heavy lift helicopter in coming years, and continues to pursue the amphibious combat vehicle 1.1.

The budget calls for eight CH-53K aircraft ahead of the helicopter's planned initial operational capability date in 2019.

There are also plans to buy 30 amphibious combat vehicles, up from 26 last year. Plans call for the Marine Corps to select a single maker for its ACV 1.1 this year, choosing between BAE Systems and SAIC.

The service is also investing heavily in the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, set to replace the Humvee for both the Army and Marine Corps. As research and development continue, the service is set to buy 1,642 of the vehicles, up from just 527 last year.

Among the most eye-catching planned buys, however, are in ground weapons systems. The served plans to buy $47 million in 155mm towed howitzers in the coming fiscal year, up from $20 million in Fiscal 2018 and $3 million the previous year.

The annual spending high mobility artillery rocket systems, or HIMARS, is set to more than double, with a planned investment of $134 million, up from $60 million in Fiscal 2018 and $31 million the year before.

The big HIMARS buy is due to the Marine Corps' plan to reactivate 5th Battalion, 10th Marines, as a HIMARS unit, Rear Adm. Brian Luther, deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for budget, told reporters in a briefing Monday afternoon.

The battalion, which then operated 155mm howitzers, was formally retired in 2012 following a final 2010 deployment to Afghanistan as combat operations drew down.

The budget request, Luther said, "supports reactivation of [5/10] as a HIMARS rocket battalion and supports acquisition of HIMARS systems, support rocket equipment for the new battalion, and an associated increase with the total munitions requirements for rockets."

The Marine Corps is leaning hard into its long-range rocket and artillery capabilities, seeking to gain greater range and targeting capability with its existing systems.

Last October, the service fired a guided rocket from a HIMARS system aboard an amphibious ship in a first-ever test of the system's ability to destroy a target on land from a distance of roughly 43 miles. The test was a success.

Officials have since told Military.com they plan to conduct additional experiments with HIMARS and other long-range fires in range and capabilities tests.

Since late last year, HIMARS have also been employed in Helmand province, Afghanistan as an additional defense system at the disposal of the roughly 300-Marine advisory element now assisting local forces in pushing back the Taliban.

As for Marine Corps howitzers, their moment in the sun came near Raqqa, Syria in 2017. One Marine Corps general bragged that the element of several hundred Marines from 1st Battalion, 10th Marines "killed more ISIS than anyone" during a combat deployment of most of a year. The unit also reportedly burned out two howitzer barrels due to firing so many artillery rounds against the enemy.

As to the 1,100 Marines the service plans to add in Fiscal 2019, Marine Corps officials have indicated they want to use that end strength increase to continue growth of specialized fields, including cyber warfare and information operations.

Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Robert Neller has said he's working to grow these communities and develop incentives to keep Marines in these roles, once they're fully trained and equipped.

"We are far and away the youngest force, far and away the lowest number of officers to enlisted. The Marine Corps of the future, we're going to get a little bit older. It takes longer to grow these people," Neller said. "So there's a business side ... We've got a way ahead of us here."

-- Hope Hodge Seck can be reached at hope.seck@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HopeSeck.Wisconsin Proposes Green Alert System for Missing Veterans

We've all seen them before; either on our cellphones, the TV news, or interstate highway signs. The amber alerts, silver alerts, and blue alerts notifying us of missing at-risk people. Now the state of Wisconsin has a bill wending its way through the legislature to create a "green alert" system for missing veterans. For more details, see this Military Advantage blog post.The National Geographic Channel continues its ambitious, eight-part documentary series "Chain of Command" on Monday February 5th at 9pm ET with episode 6, "Crossroads."

In Afghanistan, U.S. Marines continue to work to overcome challenges while advising and assisting the Afghan National Army. Meanwhile, the Pentagon keeps focus on extremist threats around the globe. Military leaders discuss the growing concerns in Africa, deploying special operations forces uniquely equipped to handle threats there. And in Panama, Special Agent Eddy Dolan joins local security forces tracking migrants for terrorist threats.

We've got a clip from this week's episode. Special Agent Dolan, ICE Homeland Security Investigations, visits Panama to see what he calls the "chokepoint" for migrants trying to reach the United States. Many of those migrants are from Africa.King Mohammed VI of Morocco congratulated in a message Irans President Hassan Rouhani on the occasion of the National Day of his country.

In the message, the King expressed heartfelt congratulations and best wishes of health and wellbeing to President Rouhani and further progress and prosperity to the Iranian brotherly people.

On the same occasion, the Moroccan Sovereign expressed willingness to endeavor together with President Rouhani to add new impetus to cooperation relations between the two countries to the best interest of the Moroccan and Iranian peoples.

Diplomatic ties between Morocco and Iran were officially reestablished in January 2017 with the accreditation of a new Moroccan Ambassador in Tehran, Hassan Hami.

The return of the Moroccan Ambassador to Tehran signaled a new era in relations between the two countries after the Kingdom severed diplomatic ties in 2009 on the backdrop of a rift over Irans interference in the religious sphere of Morocco.

Moroccos decision to severe diplomatic relations with Iran was also made following Iranian statements prejudicial to Bahrains sovereignty and territorial integrity.Moroccan security services have seized 541 kilos of cocaine concealed in a container shipped from Latin America to Casablanca. Six people including a Brazilian national suspected of being the mastermind of a criminal network were arrested, said on Sunday Central Bureau of Judicial Investigation (BCIJ).

Five vehicles and large sums of money in Moroccan dirhams and other currencies were also confiscated in this major haul operation, said the BCIJ, Moroccos FBI.

According to investigators, a dangerous criminal network linked to Latin American cartels is trying to use the strategic position of the North African Kingdom as a transit point to European market.

In recent years, the Moroccan authorities have reported increasing cocaine seizures, including a record 2.5 tons of cocaine with a street value of $2.7 billion.

This impressive drug seizure shows that the North African Kingdom, which has long been considered as a transit country for cocaine trafficked to Europe, is increasingly becoming a target too.

Over the past decade the flow of cocaine from South America to West Africa, and subsequently through North Africa to Europe and the Middle East, has expanded rapidly.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime estimates that between 20 and 40 MT of cocaine transits the region annually in route to Europe. Morocco works closely with the United States and European partners to combat drug trafficking.

The Central Bureau of Judicial Investigation was established in 2015 and is among the agencies with authority to conduct counternarcotics investigations.The Egyptian army said it launched a massive operation in northern Sinai against terrorist groups and killed 16 fighters while imprisoning more than 30 others.

The operation seeks to end a bloody conflict that has killed hundreds of civilians and soldiers in recent years. In November 2017, militants attacked a Sufi mosque killing 311 worshippers, the deadliest attack Egypt has witnessed so far.

After this bloody attack, President Sisi gave a three-month deadline to restore order in the region, using all brute force necessary.

The current comprehensive security operation involves the countrys army, navy and air force with the aim of pushing armed groups out of the Sinai Peninsula, parts of the Nile Delta and the Western Delta, the Egyptian army said.

A government spokesman said a communication center, an explosives laboratory and six drug farms were found during the operation.I had the great pleasure of working with Bob in the past in setting up a very successful strategic partnership with BMO, and was thrilled when our paths crossed again for yet another great opportunity to work our magic in the mortgage broker space, said Bargis. With his vast experience in the retail banking space, he will also spearhead the expansion of our suite of unique product offerings for our brokers customers, and enhance service programs using technology that will serve to increase CIMBCs overall membership value proposition.

During his stint at BMO, Sinclairs substantially grew the banks share of broker business. Before leaving the bank in his role as Vice President and Head of Specialized Sales Canada, he helped build up the banks mortgage and loan business, while also playing a critical part in BMOs New Customer strategy. With Sinclair in the fold, BMO made considerable headway servicing real estate agents and COIs, developers and lending specialists like financial planners.

Like Sinclair, many mortgage professionals have come from the banking world, breeding both familiarity and trust. George Hugh of Taurus Mortgage Capital believes Sinclairs tutelage will help the CIMBC achieve its goals.

As a former banking executive with ING Bank, I look forward to Bobs contributions to both our existing membership and business partners, said Hugh. His experience will allow us to deliver innovative solutions to an industry that is need of positive change. He brings real banking experience to our organization and industry.

Frontenac Mortgage Investment has appointed a new director, the firms board of directors has announced.

In her new role, veteran accountant Cara Chesney will help lead a company with assets under management of over $180m. Frontenac is a prospectus product that is managed by W. A. Robinson Asset Management.

The new director carries an accomplished background in finance. Chesney holds the CA and CPA designations, which she earned while working with Deloitte in Toronto for nearly 10 years. She was later selected to participate in a two-year secondment at the firms London office, and returned to Toronto as a senior manager for the same firm.According to reports, the CFPB has not issued any subpoenas, sought testimony from key executives at Equifax, or proceeded with on-site examinations.

We are deeply troubled by recent news reports that, under Director Mulvaneys leadership, the CFPB may have stopped its investigation into the Equifax breach, the senators wrote. According to these reports, the CFPB has not taken even the most preliminary steps to conduct an investigation. While we are aware of reports that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) may be taking the lead in investigating Equifaxs failure to maintain adequate data security standards, the CFPB still has a duty to investigate the harm to consumers and whether other federal consumer financial laws have been violated.

The senators specifically asked the CFPB whether it has stopped the bureau investigation into the Equifax breach announced in September by former director Richard Cordray. The letters also asked whether the bureau plans to conduct on-site exams and whether it is coordinating with the FTC and other federal regulators.

The senators asked the CFPB to respond by Feb. 19.Guaranteed Rate has named Craig Lombardi as president of its online division to oversee the companys loan origination from leads generated through online marketing and advertising channels.

Lombardi replaces Scott Stephen, who has been appointed chief growth officer. In his new role, Stephen will oversee the expansion of Guaranteed Rate Insurance, Ravenswood Title, and the companys other growth initiatives.

Craig has the in-depth mortgage, sales, and call center expertise necessary to leverage our platform and is the perfect choice to exponentially grow our online division, Guaranteed Rate CEO and founder Victor Ciardelli said. He joins the company at the exact right time with precisely the credentials and background we are seeking for this role. Scott has done a fantastic job nurturing the online division since its inception and will be a huge asset as he transitions to focus on other strategic expansion projects.Lieutenant-General Carlos Humberto Loitey, military adviser for UN peacekeeping operations, is currently on a working visit to Morocco for talks with Moroccan military officials on the Kingdoms contribution to these peacekeeping operations.

In this connection and upon the instructions of King Mohammed VI, the UN official held separate meetings with Minister Delegate to the Head of Government, in charge of the National Defense Administration, Abdeltif Loudyi, and with Lieutenant General and Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces, Abdelfatah Louarak.

Abdeltif Loudyi and Lieutenant-General Carlos Humberto Loitey discussed Moroccos contribution to UN peacekeeping operations and ways and means likely to enable the United Nations improve conditions for peacekeeping missions, taking into account the complex environment of current operations, a statement issued by the National Defense Administration said.

Loudyi highlighted the ceaseless efforts made by Morocco in the field of peace preservation and welcomed the initiatives launched by the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, as part of the reform of the UN peacekeeping and security, the statement said.

During the meeting, Lieutenant-General Loitey reiterated condolences to the Kingdom following the death of the Moroccan peacekeepers who were killed while performing their duty with honor and bravery in the Central African Republic, and expressed appreciation for the key role played by the Kingdom in peacekeeping operations, the statement said.

The UN official also welcomed Moroccos endorsement of the new Peacekeeping Capability Readiness System, announced during the Vancouver (Canada) Conference on the Preservation of Peace, held in November 2017. Morocco took part in the Conference.

Talks between the UN official and Lieutenant General and Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR), Abdelfatah Louarak, focused on the participation of the FAR in UN peacekeeping missions and their contribution to security-building efforts in Africa.

They also discussed the measures to be taken to face the various challenges and threats encountered on the ground, a statement from the FAR General Staff said.

Morocco, a historic contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, has, over the past 60 years, deployed some 70,000 soldiers, as well as several field hospitals under the aegis of the United Nations. Currently, Moroccan blue helmets are deployed in the Central African Republic and in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Lieutenant-General Carlos Humberto Loitey is visiting Morocco this February 10 to 14 at the head of a large UN military delegation.Stock Photo Gas pump View Photos

Sonora, CA  The price of a gallon of gas has gradually been increasing over the past three weeks.

Nationally, regular unleaded is up seven cents to $2.65. Industry analyst Trilby Lundberg told the Associated Press that the increase is due to higher crude oil costs. However, wholesale prices are expected to fall over the coming weeks, which she says could result in a price decline. The current gas price is 34 cents above where it was a year ago.

San Francisco has the highest average price in the nation at $3.42, while Tucson, Arizona is the lowest at $2.26. The myMotherLode.com gas price section shows regular unleaded selling in Tuolumne County from 2.93 to 3.28.Leave it the Mexican Olympic ski team to inject a dash of flair and a hint of cultural machismo to the 2018 Winter Olympics when they debuted the outfits in which they will compete.

Set against a background of sleek black are colorful and impressive skulls placed throughout the uniform that embody the spirit of Dia de Muertos.Mammoths, concrete houses, rodeos and prominent television shows are all features that no one would expect to come from the quaint city of Seguin, about 35 miles east of San Antonio.

Locals will also spend the day cheering on the Seguin Majors softball team as they head to the Little League Softball World Series on Aug.13.When poor field conditions at the Alamodome led the Mexican National Team to relocate its practice, spurring rumors that the USA-Mexico match could be canceled, it wasn't the first time the stadium's facilities were called into question.

Ever since its inception in the 1980s when Mayor Henry Cisneros proposed a multipurpose stadium for South Texas to the tune of $186 million, debate has shrouded the dome over matters of funding and taxes, its impact on the Eastside neighborhood, the conditions of its facilities and its overall usefulness.Back when the University of Texas consisted of only one building, when Interstate 35 was called East Avenue, a vicious serial killer horrified Austin.

The murderer was made legend as the Servant Girl Annihilator, with a reputation of killing female servants after attacking them in their sleep with an axe, dragging them to the backyard and raping them.

Over the course of one year, seven girls and one man died from the annihilators midnight attacks.

The killings began on Sept. 28, 1884, and continued until Dec. 24, 1885, meaning the annihilator could be the first serial killer in the United States, according to PBS.

RELATED: 100-year-old photos show the University of Texas at Austin before the hoopla

The fear of an axe-wielding serial killer forced early curfews, nightly guards in neighborhoods, the police force to triple in size and 24-hour saloons to close by midnight, according to Austin historian J. R. Galloway.

But the rampages stopped after police killed a 19-year-old man named Nathan Elgin in February 1886.

That day, an angry and drunken Elgin forced a young girl inside a house after dragging her from a nearby saloon  a trait similar of the annihilator.

Locals called police after they heard continuous screams from the house, resulting in a standoff and death of the possible serial killer.

RELATED: Sandra West's eccentric Ferrari burial still a spectacle in San Antonio after nearly 40 years

On Galloways website, servantgirlmurders.com, Galloway said that Elgins crime history and rampage on the night of his death match characteristics of the Servant Girl Annihilator. But the main clue comes from the evidence the annihilator left behind at murder scenes.

Galloway states that the annihilator walked barefoot in order to remain silent as he entered the servant girls houses. But footprints left behind show only four toes on his right foot  a distinct feature that Elgin had as well.

But because Elgin was killed before he could testify, the eight murders were never solved.

Was Nathan Elgin the Servant Girl Annihilator? Galloway asks on his website. In my opinion, he most likely was.

Click through the slideshow to view details on the victims and the houses where they were murdered, as well as the modern buildings that have since taken their place.

rsalinas@mysa.com

Editor's note: This story is one in a continuing series celebrating the 150th anniversary of the San Antonio Express-News. To commemorate the milestone, mySA.com is looking back at the city's rich history with stories, photos, video and graphics, remembering some of the most noteworthy events that have taken place or were covered by this publication during those 150 years. To read more stories like this, visit the 150th anniversary section of mySA.com or the 150th anniversary section of ExpressNews.com.

He must strike before the army arrives at the Alamo. So, like Santa Anna, Mark Nauschutz attacks in the predawn darkness, around 5 a.m. His mission: mowing the lawn before tourists descend.

The Alamo horticulturist doesn't want the patch of green that stretches before the Shrine of Texas Liberty looking shaggy for visitors, more than 2.5 million a year, or almost 7,000 a day.

In winter he cuts the lush ryegrass two or three times a week, leaving distinct stripes in an east-west pattern. He might be out five times a week in summer to trim the heat-fueled Bermuda grass that replaces the ryegrass when temperatures warm.

Nauschutz likes the quiet of the early mornings at the shrine.

"That's when you feel the history," he says

Even after 14 years of working there, Nauschutz still marvels at all that's happened at the site. He points to a cluster of deep gouges in the facade between a Mexican olive tree and the front door of the chapel.

"You're that close to where the musket balls hit," he says, referring to the place on the wall thought to be where soldiers were lined up before a firing squad.

But most of his predawn thinking is directed at the 4.3 acres of the Alamo grounds and the plants growing there. He fights for the flora, and this year has been especially tough because of recent hard freezes.

Temperatures stay warmer inside the compound walls, but plants still suffered.

"It's the worst it's been since 1989," Nauschutz says, referring to the 65 straight hours temperatures stayed below freezing in February.

But the resilient spirit that's synonymous with the Alamo shows in plants that are starting to sprout from the ground. Some early bloomers, such as redbuds, Texas mountain laurels and agaritas, are flowering.

Japanese aralias, though tropical looking, shrugged off the cold and remained lush. Mexican buckeye will bloom soon, and so will double-flowering peach trees, which Nauschutz praises for being hardy and low maintenance.

Records indicate peaches were grown at the Alamo in 1861, but most of the plant life there today looks nothing like it did in the early to mid-19th century. "There would have been nothing but scrub mesquites and grasses," Nauschutz says.

The stately pecan in the center of the lawn outside Alamo hall is the oldest tree, planted in 1850. The next oldest - and the plant that garners the most attention from visitors - is the live oak that sprawls across the courtyard in front of the Long Barrack. Planted in 1912, it was estimated to be 40 years old when it was brought to the site on a mule-drawn wagon.

A yearly shot of fertilizer helps to keep trees healthy. With that, the soil around the trees is aerated, which loosens compacted soil and allows water to penetrate.

Aerating is equally important for grass. Nauschutz and his crew of two landscapers use a plug aerator to pull cores of dirt from the sodded areas in the back of the complex once a month while grass is growing. After trying a variety of turf, Nauschutz settled on Emerald zoysia because it tolerates shade and traffic from special events.

"But when you have an army walk across it ," he says, his voice trailing off.

Nauschutz propagates plants in a 40-by-13-foot greenhouse that's tucked behind the arbor and amphitheater. About 500 pink 'Katie' ruellia plants, started from divisions, are growing in the greenhouse. And so are dozens of fig ivy plants started from cuttings. Cholla cactuses, growing in 4-inch pots, are taking root and will be sold for about $8 each in the gift shop. Tourists bought almost 1,000 of the plants in 2009, he notes.

During his tenure, Nauschutz has secured grants from the San Antonio Area Foundation for landscaping, and he's currently applying money from the Native Texan License Plate fund to add lights for trees in the back. That will add to the ambience for nighttime events.

Though the landscape isn't planted entirely in natives, visitors to the Alamo will find a variety of Texas plants in the landscape. And in Cavalry Courtyard, they also will find a plant that sings to Texans: the yellow rose.

Just don't call it yellow.

"Gold," Nauschutz corrects. "There's nothing yellow about the Alamo."

tlehmann@express-news.netThere are two ways to attack a trade deficit, by reducing imports or increasing exports.

GOP Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania has tied one of America's arms behind its back.

The U.S. trade deficit with China set a record in 2017, with Americans importing goods worth $375 billion more than what they exported, the Commerce Department reported last week. Globally, the U.S. trade deficit was $566 billion, the highest in nine years.

Some believe the solution is to impose tariffs or construct legal barriers to discourage imports. But that will only drive up consumer prices, and history shows that once an industry is lost to another country, it rarely moves back.

The best way to overcome a trade deficit, and promote prosperity for all, is to increase exports. And governments around the world make it cheaper to export goods through export credit agencies, like the U.S. Ex-Im Bank.

RELATED: Trump's about-face good for business

For the last four years, I've detailed how the Ex-Im Bank provides loan guarantees and insurance products that help reduce the risk of shipping high-value capital goods to foreign countries, where oftentimes the legal and banking systems are unreliable.

The bank costs the American taxpayer nothing and actually makes money for the Treasury most years. But Toomey opposes the bank's mission. When his choice to lead the bank was voted down by fellow Republican senators, he vowed in December to stop President Donald Trump's nominees to the Ex-Im Bank's board from getting confirmed.

By placing a hold on all four nominees, Toomey has cost the United States $10 billion in export deals. His continued obstinacy is putting 250,000 American jobs at risk, many of them in the Houston area.

To learn more about the missed opportunities, I spoke with Scott Schloegel, the acting first vice president at the bank. The problem is that without a quorum on its board, the bank cannot approve transactions worth more than $10 million. Opposition by Toomey and his allies have blocked the bank from getting a quorum for 2 years.

"We have roughly $35 billion in transactions in the pipeline right now, and that represents roughly a quarter of a million jobs," Schloegel told me. "We want to get moving on that."

Time is of the essence because export deals are perishable, which is why $10 billion in deals have already died, including a $1.4 billion petrochemical deal that left the U.S. for Germany and Canada last week because the bank could not commit.

"U.S. jobs were lost," Schloegel said. "There have been some aircraft we haven't been able to do financing on, there have been satellites that have gone by the wayside, satellite launches that have gone to the French."

RELATED: Export-Import Bank is back, jobs saved

Many of the pending transactions would benefit Houston, he said. They include $16 billion for the electric power business, $14 billion for oil and gas, $4 billion for transportation, nearly $2 billion for infrastructure.

Houston-based Thrustmaster of Texas is one example of the difference the Ex-Im bank can make. The company manufactures marine thrusters to maneuver ships and offshore platforms. The bank provided repayment guarantees and performance bonds worth $82 million, which backed contracts that added 20 new jobs, boost Thrustmaster's workforce to 230 Texans.

All without costing the taxpayer one red cent. That was before the bank's board lost its quorum.

"Ex-Im helps us compete on a level playing field with larger multinational competitors by facilitating our access to working capital to fulfill multi-million-dollar international contracts that enable us to sustain and add jobs in Houston," Joe Becker, company president, said.

The competition is undoubtedly fierce. China's export credit agencies pledged more money in two years for their exporters than the U.S. Ex-Im has pledged in its 84-year history.

"When we do these large sales, people will rail against these big companies that we do financing for," Schloegel said. "But take Boeing for example, it purchases from tens of thousands of small business suppliers ... so when these sales are lost, that means jobs are supported in other countries. People don't understand the ripple effect."

Trump's four nominees to the bank's board were approved by the Senate Banking Committee in December and only need a single vote by the full Senate to take their posts. The bank has broad bipartisan support, but Toomey is blocking a vote.

RELATED: As nation's leading exporter, Houston should defend free trade

Would I prefer that no country in the world used export credit agencies to boost their private businesses? Of course. But that's not the way the world works.

Toomey's misplaced idealism is costing Texans jobs and profits. Our senators, including his close friend Sen. Ted Cruz, need to make sure he knows that makes us very, very unhappy.State Sen. Carlos Urestis criminal trial was postponed today after Senior U.S. District Judge David Ezra said a juror was unavailable until Tuesday.

Lawyers for both Uresti and co-defendant Gary Cain opted for the delay rather than the juror excused for an alternate. Prosecutors wanted to proceed with the trial with an alternate juror.

If its a balancing test, we err on the side of the defense, Ezra said in announcing the delay.

The trial was not held Thursday or Friday because Ezra had a scheduling conflict. The trial is entering its fourth week.

Uresti, a San Antonio Democrat, is charged with 11 felonies  including securities fraud and money laundering  in connection with his role at now-defunct oilfield services company FourWinds Logistics. Uresti was the companys legal counsel, a 1 percent owner and he helped recruit investors.

Cain, a FourWinds consultant, is charged with nine felonies.

Both Uresti and Cain have denied the charges. Prosecutors allege FourWinds, which recruited investors to buy and sell sand used in fracking in oil production, was a Ponzi scheme.

Urestis lawyers only have a day or a day and a half of witness testimony before they rest their case, Ezra said, though the judge indicated they have not said whether Uresti will testify.

Mr. Cain has decided he is going to testify, Ezra noted. Cains defense will last two or three days, because Mr. Cain will probably take a day on the witness stand, the judge said.

The judge estimated that the trial may get to closing arguments as soon as Friday, with the case going to jurors the same day.

If jurors dont reach a verdict Friday, they wont resume deliberations until Feb. 20 because Feb. 19 is a federal holiday and the courthouse is closed.

Ezra will be out of town on a separate court matter starting Feb. 21. If jurors havent reached a verdict before he leaves, Ezra said he will take up any jury questions with the lawyers by phone. If a verdict is reached while he is away, Ezra has given instructions for the verdict to be sealed and placed in a safe until his return  possibly Feb. 26.

Urests lawyers had expected to call a court reporter as their first witness today. The court reporter kept a record of a deposition FourWinds investor Denise Cantu gave in a wrongful-death case involving two of her children, according to Tab Turner, an Arkansas lawyer who represents Uresti.

Uresti was part of the legal team that obtained a $2.5 million settlement for Cantu in the case. He later recommended she invest some of the proceeds with FourWinds. Cantu invested $900,000 and lost about $800,000.

Uresti's lawyers also had expected to present in court a stipulation regarding his communications with Chief U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia in 2015 to alert the authorities to what (Uresti) perceived as possible fraud at FourWinds, Turner said. Garcia was on a list of more than 200 potential witnesses for Uresti, according to a December court filing.

Defense lawyers also had planned to call to the stand today H. Anthony Hervol, a lawyer who represented Uresti in FourWinds bankruptcy regarding a $40,000 loan the company made to the lawmaker in June 2014.

Prosecutors say FourWinds CEO Stan Bates gave Uresti a $40,000 check that was deposited in his law firms trust account. As part of the transaction, prosecutors alleged Uresti drafted a promissory note in which he would pay the money back to Bates rather than FourWinds.

FourWinds' bankruptcy trustee sued Uresti in April 2016 to return the $40,000. The litigation was settled, with Uresti paying back $30,000 in August 2016. He didn't pay back all the $40,000 because, he said, FourWinds had owed his law firm money.

pdanner@express-news.net | gcontreras@express-news.netFor two centuries, it has been a totem of Americas gun culture  a name emblazoned on frontier flintlocks and U.S. Army .45s.

But on Monday Remington Outdoor Co., which traces its history back to 1816, said it would file for bankruptcy protection, succumbing to a slump in business worsened by, of all things, a president who has steadfastly supported Americans right to bear arms.

The bankruptcy is a blow to the private-equity mogul Stephen Feinberg, who has been a prominent supporter of President Donald Trump. Feinbergs firm, Cerberus Capital Management, acquired Remington in 2007 and subsequently saddled it with almost $1 billion in debt. The Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing will let Remington stay in business while it works out a plan to turn around the company and pay its creditors.

Remington has been around for over 200 years, dating back to 1816 when Eliphalet Remington II worked with a local gunsmith to create a flintlock rifle. It received its first contract in 1845, manufacturing 5,000 Mississippi rifles for the U.S. military. Today, the company employs 3,500 people and is among the largest American manufacturers of ammunition and firearms.

While the Remington name is unlikely to disappear, the companys travails highlight the shifting fortunes of the firearms industry and its fraught position in the nations economic and political life. The companys fortunes took a hit after the election of Donald Trump, a self-proclaimed true friend of the gun industry, because Hillary Clintons defeat erased fears among gun enthusiasts about losing access to weapons. Sales plummeted, and retailers stopped re-ordering as they found themselves stuffed with unsold inventory.

Industry wide, gun manufacturing had been ramping up even as ownership rates decline. More than 11 million firearms were manufactured in the U.S. in 2016, up from fewer than four million a decade ago, according to data from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. In 2014, 31 percent of American households reported owning a firearm, down from 47 percent in 1973, according to a report from National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago.

Gun ownership has become more concentrated as a result, with a small sliver of gun owners owning a growing segment of Americas firearms inventory, according to the Harvard Injury Control Research Center. These gun buyers have come to be known as super owners and one study, conducted by Harvard and Northeastern universities, concluded that about half the guns in America are owned by only 3 percent of the adult population, with an average of 17 firearms each.

Its not the first time Remington has been in financial trouble; it probably wont be the last, said Richard Feldman, president of the Independent Firearm Owners Association.

Almost all behemoths end up stumbling over themselves during see-saws in industry cycles. I suspect that if the Democrats make a resurgence this November, gun company stocks will come roaring back with them.

Remingtons prepackaged reorganization will be filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware, according to a statement from the company. Holders of the gunmakers $550 million term loan will take an 82.5 percent equity stake in Remington while third-lien noteholders get 17.5 percent of the company and four-year warrants for a 15 percent stake, according to Remington. Creditors will also provide a $100 million debtor-in-possession loan to finance operations throughout bankruptcy.

Representatives for the Madison, North Carolina-based company and Cerberus didnt respond to requests for comment.

The companys reputation has hurt efforts to line up new investors. Remington came under unwanted scrutiny and litigation after the massacre of 20 children and six adults at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, in which the gunman carried a small arsenal that included a Remington Bushmaster assault rifle.

Four days after the shooting in 2012, Cerberus announced it would sell the company, as agitated Cerberus investors demanded a way out of the Remington investment, but it failed to nab a buyer. In the meantime, another pillar of American gun also collapsed, with Colt Holding Co. taking a trip through bankruptcy in 2015.

To contact the reporters on this story: Eliza Ronalds-Hannon in New York at eronaldshann@bloomberg.net, Polly Mosendz in New York at pmosendz@bloomberg.net.

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Rick Green at rgreen18@bloomberg.net, Nikolaj Gammeltoft at ngammeltoft@bloomberg.net.Send calendar items to vbrashier@hcnonline.com.

FEB. 20

DeMENTIA SUPPORT

10 a.m. to noon

First United Methodist Church

100 N. William Barnett Ave., Cleveland

Angels Care Home Health is offering free classes for caregivers of dementia patients. The classes are held every Tuesday through March 2. Upcoming topics are Understanding and Resolving Grief on Feb. 20, The Natural State of Doing on Feb. 27, Keeping the Peace on March 6, The Behaviors on March 13 and Dementia and Medications on March 20.

FEB. 22

CHILI LUNCH

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

First United Methodist Church

100 N. William Barnett Ave., Cleveland

Caring Hearts Ministry members will be selling chili lunches for $8 in the church fellowship hall. Take-out is available without a drink. For information, call 281-592-0545.

FEB. 24

BENEFIT FOR JACKSON

Begins at noon

Bokeeter's Cocktail Bar

18110 US 59, New Caney

On Dec. 19, 5-year-old Jackson Cash Turner was in an auto accident and suffered severe spinal injuries. He has a long road to recovery ahead of him. He is the son of Stephanie Clakley of New Caney and attends Valley Ranch Elementary. With mounting medical costs and bills, the family needs help from the community. The benefit includes barbecue lunches for sale, auction, raffles, music, bake sale, poker run and more. Orders for barbecue lunches to be delivered on Friday, Feb. 23, to local companies is also possible for those who place an order by Feb. 16. For more information on the meals, call Michelle at 281-901-3348. The poker run will start at 10 a.m. The cost is $20 for riders and $10 for passengers. Lunch for poker run participants is included. For more information on the poker run, call Travis at 832-318-1563 or Monty at 281-761-1555. Other questions are directed to Monica Enloe at 281-413-5374 or Amy Drake at 281-806-6387.

MARCH 3

HEALTH AND RESOURCE FAIR

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Shepherd Community Center

10251 FM 150, Shepherd

The Health Center of Southeast Texas, in conjunction with the City of Shepherd is hosting a Health and Resource Fair that is free and open to the community. Vendors may begin setting up at 8:30 a.m. Vendors may bring a door prize that will be given out at random times during the event. For questions, Kim Hughes at 281-592-2224, ext. 206, or the City of Shepherd at 936-628-3305.Some of the graduating seniors in San Jacinto County's two school districts will receive college scholarships thanks to the Area Go Texan Denim and Diamonds Banquet held on Feb. 10.

The Denim and Diamonds Banquet is an annual fundraiser hosted by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Go Texan committee that raises money for scholarships given to seniors outside of the Houston Metro area.

The committee raises more than $1 million for schools across multiple counties. Shepherd ISD and Coldspring-Oakhurst CISD are among dozens of school districts that receive scholarships.

The banquet, which was held this year in the newly opened Coldspring Community Shelter, raises an average of $50,000 with hundreds in attendance.

"We only sell 300 tickets to this," said Sue Nell Loggins of the Go Texan committee.

Visitors pay $100 per ticket, which gets them in the door and allows them to enjoy a steak dinner. From there, funds are raised through raffles and a live auction. Chance Ward acted as this year's auctioneer.

Many of the items in the auction included quilts, fryers, guns, paintings, various works of art and more.

One item, a framed Texas flag, was sold to Clay Jones for $1,400. Jones donated the item back and it was then sold to Eastex Title for $1,600.

Another item was purchased by Steve Roberts, who also donated the item back to be sold once again. The total was more than $2,500.

With the fundraiser over, students in both Shepherd High School and Coldspring-Oakhurst High School now have the opportunity to win scholarships. According to Loggins, the number of scholarships awarded varies depending on the number of students who apply with as few as eight given out in one year.

"Other years we might have 15 or 20," she said.

The number given out this year will not be known until April at the earliest. The scholarship also proves to be a big help for students as they prepare to take their first steps into college once they graduate.

"The largest amount that we've been given is $3,000," said Loggins.Republican candidates for San Jacinto County judge shared their visions for the county at a forum hosted by the San Jacinto County Republican Party on Feb. 5 at the Coldspring Community Center.

Three Republican candidates are on the March ballot - Robert Reynolds, Steve Roberts and Fritz Faulkner. Reynolds and Roberts were in attendance at the forum with Faulkner absent.

In his introduction, Roberts shared that he served for nearly three years in the United States Navy and has many years of experience in law having attended law school at the University of Houston. He is part of the county's Central Appraisal District and says he wants to bring more transparency to commissioners court.

"That's not my county court. It's your county court," he said.

Reynolds is a longtime resident of San Jacinto County who believes in a strong sense of unity for its citizens. He wants to see San Jacinto County grow and prosper in the coming years whether or not if he is elected.

"We feel it's important that we move to the next level," he said.

The first question asked regarded whether or not if the candidates would address issues involving animal control in the county. The question alleges that $10,000 was approved by the San Jacinto County Commissioners Court years ago for a dog pound that has yet to be built.

Reynolds supports animal control and believes the dog pound needs to be established to handle the issues.

"If there's funds that's been allotted for that, then we need to get it started," he said.

Reynolds also says the county needs to look out for loose livestock and make sure they are also protected.

Roberts also believes in supporting the pound idea.

"Of course we need more animal control in this community," he said.

The second question asked how the candidates plan to run for office and how important is it to work with San Jacinto County's people. Roberts answered first by stating he is getting to know the people very well and believes strongly in working with the court, though he does not want to be a micromanager.

"My job is to try to bring some managerial sense and maybe a slightly different perspective than a precinct perspective," he said.

Reynolds states that it is important for the citizens to attend commissioners court meetings from time to time along with other meetings, such as school board meetings, in order to get an understanding of what is happening in the county. He encourages citizens to get to know their commissioners and precincts.

"Unity is very important," he said.

Another question asked what the candidates thought about longevity pay, which is supposed to be used to retain employees to keep from retraining new employees. The question was whether the candidates believed elected officials should get longevity pay. Roberts did not believe elected officials needed it.

"As a Republican I believe strongly in term limits," he said. "Longevity pay comes from you, the voter."

Reynolds agreed with Roberts.

"I don't believe in longevity pay either and I'll stand on that," he said.

The next question asked what impact the candidates have had on the county and what they think they can do as county judge.

"I've always helped try to get everybody involved," said Reynolds.

Reynolds says that if he is elected as county judge he plans to help grow the county and the local businesses. He encourages local citizens to shop local.

"Let's start working together as a county unit," he said.

Roberts discussed his current position at the county's Central Appraisal District working with Susan Bailes and Ray McCoppin.

"We have revolutionized your Central Appraisal District bringing efficiency to it over the last two years," he said.

Roberts explained that the appraisal district is working to eliminate fraud in the county's tax system.

The final question asked if the candidates plan to implement any ordinance to empower local law enforcement. Roberts says that San Jacinto County does not have effective ordinance for regulating trailer parks and other areas.

"We have no effective ordinance in construction and building," he said.

Roberts also believes that sound ordinance needs to be addressed as well.

Reynolds says he plans to work with the San Jacinto County Sheriff's Office in enforcing ordinances. He believes the first step is to review the ones that are already established and see if any of them need to be enforced.

"We need to get them in place first and then we can work on new ones," he said.Seven months before Hurricane Harvey inundated the Houston area with a trillion gallons of water and led to widespread criticism of the Red Cross, Harris County adopted a disaster-preparation plan whose key assumption was that the Red Cross would be slow to act. "In a major disaster where there is widespread damage, the local resources of the Red Cross may be overwhelmed and not available immediately," stated the plan. "It may be upwards of 7 days before the Red Cross can assume a primary care and shelter role."

The 17-page document, entitled the "Mass Shelter Plan," was unanimously approved by the county's governing body on Jan. 31, 2017. ProPublica obtained the plan, which until now has not been public, as part of a public records request.

The Mass Shelter Plan described the Red Cross as the county's "lead partner" but was unequivocal in assigning responsibility should a calamity occur: "In the event of an emergency that requires evacuation of all or any part of the Harris County population, Harris County is ultimately responsible for the coordination of the evacuation, shelter and mass care of displaced local residents."

The goal, according to a county spokesperson, was to provide shelter for up to 10,000 displaced residents. [Harris County's population is 4.5 million; roughly half of those people live in Houston.] The plan proposed that county employees be trained as shelter volunteers, outlined specific roles for shelter staff and indicated the county would identify and survey buildings that could be used for emergency housing beyond those already identified by the American Red Cross [ARC].

"The main idea behind the plan is to have county personnel staff and manage the shelters up to 7 days until ARC volunteers can transition operations," county emergency management planner David Alamia wrote in a December 2016 email obtained by ProPublica.

But in the seven months between the plan's passage and the landfall of Harvey, the county took few steps to implement its strategy. Indeed, when dire flooding forced thousands of people from their homes, 3,036 emails obtained in a public records request suggest, officials didn't even seem aware that a plan existed.

"Harris County had the forethought to identify - and rightfully so - that the Red Cross might not be able to be there for upwards of seven days depending on storm severity, and then they didn't follow through on their plans," said Meghan McPherson, an adjunct professor of emergency management at Tulane University, who reviewed the plan at ProPublica's request. "It doesn't seem they made a connection between what they promised the public and what they did."

A scramble to open shelters

Hurricane Harvey, which struck in late August last year, generated a heroic response. The tales of citizens taking care of each other and volunteers improvising were legion. By contrast, the Red Cross came in for lacerating criticism. Local media chronicled myriad problems. Cities within Harris County emailed the county's emergency management office asking for Red Cross help and the county acknowledged it couldn't send it. "I hate to say this, but the Red Cross is completely out of resources," county official Kristina Clark told the fire marshal in Humble, Texas. She advised him to open his own shelter, and get the word out that evacuees would need to bring "THEIR OWN food, sleeping bags, clothes, medication, etc." One Houston councilman grew so exasperated that he confronted the Red Cross' CEO in a parking lot and called the Red Cross, during a council meeting, the "most inept, unorganized organization I've ever experienced."

For its part, Harris County's emergency management department clearly scrambled to open shelters on short notice, emails show. Indeed, employees seemed taken aback that their department would have a role. "As far as coordinating mass care, GOODNESS we had to do that too," wrote Stevee Franks, a recovery specialist in the county's office of homeland security and emergency management, in a Sept. 10 email to a peer in a nearby county. "Shelter after shelter and Red Cross was absolutely no help." As she put it, "we had to open shelters ourselves which was stupid stressful." [We have left the spelling and punctuation in emails as is. Franks did not respond to a request for comment.]

Franks' email did not mention that the county had passed a plan to avoid this exact scenario - nor did any of the emails examined by ProPublica.

Similarly, Steve Radack, a Harris County commissioner for nearly three decades, seemed unaware of the existence of the plan - which he voted for - when asked about it in an interview with ProPublica. "I cannot speak to that," he said.

Like many, Radack praised the efforts of volunteers in the aftermath of Harvey. But as stirring as those efforts were, the Mass Shelter Plan envisioned a more centrally organized approach that emphasized training. "Harris County employees will have the opportunity to be trained in Shelter Operations," it stated.

The plan cited more than a dozen roles that could be filled by shelter staff, and noted that the Red Cross recommended six staff members per 100 shelterees. But in the months between the plan's passage and the landfall of Harvey, the county hosted only one training, for about 40 volunteers, in May 2017.

Paul Suckow, a senior planner with the Harris County Community Services Department, was among those trained. He said the group was taught the basics of shelter operations: what needed to be set up before the public arrived, how to assemble and clean the cots the Red Cross would provide, and what to do with other supplies. All of the scenarios they role-played, Suckow said, assumed that a shelter run by the Red Cross would already be set up and waiting. Opening and managing a shelter, he said, "would be a higher level of training than we received."

Harris County emergency management spokesman Francisco Sanchez said only one training session was held because that was all the county and the Red Cross - which offered the training - had time to organize. A second training was scheduled for Aug. 30. It was canceled, Sanchez said, because of Harvey.

Sanchez said the Mass Care Plan came about as a result of "candid conversations" with the Red Cross about its sheltering capacity during flooding events after previous missteps in the county. "There is a tendency," he said, "for American Red Cross process or flow to become very challenged, quite frankly overwhelmed, in flooding events." But plans are made to be changed in emergencies, Sanchez said, and that's what happened after Harvey hit. "A plan is flexible," he said. "It's scalable. We can apply it and we can adapt it - and we can throw the rules out the window to serve the residents of Harris County."

Other county officials mostly sidestepped questions about the lack of preparation and defended their efforts. The dozens of shelters opened by the community and the county were evidence of good management, Commissioner Radack argued. He contended the Red Cross "let us down" and was "basically AWOL."

Radack also complimented County Judge Ed Emmett, who runs emergency management for the county. "Somebody would be hard pressed to find any county that moved as quickly as Harris County did to assist people," he said. "I think it was a great effort."

Emmett told ProPublica in a statement that the "unprecedented disaster" meant that many normal responses would have been "unrealistic." He asserted that the county's shelter operation during Harvey "has been recognized as the best ever provided, and will likely become the model used around the country."

Shelter surveys 'do not exist'

Among our requests for documents, ProPublica asked for a list of shelters that the county had identified and surveyed in advance, as the Mass Shelter Plan called for. That request yielded an unexpected response.

Harris County did not provide any emails showing such preparation, but did - seemingly unintentionally - send internal emails in which county officials discussed ProPublica's request with each other. An email dated Nov. 1, 2017, sent by Brian Murray, the office of emergency management's planning supervisor, indicated that the shelter surveys envisioned by the county plan "do not, and never did, exist."

Rosio Torres-Segura, a media specialist for emergency management, then emailed her supervisor, asking, "Do you want to reply to the reporter or do you want me to tell her these documents do not exist. She's going to ask why?"

That supervisor, Francisco Sanchez, then told ProPublica the reason they did not exist was because the county had decided to leave the task to the Red Cross. "The end result of the plan and how it was implemented included extensive dialogue offline where we came to an understanding with the American Red Cross that they had unique expertise in selecting and inspecting pre-identified sites," he said. "As hurricane season approached, it made sense to rely on the work of the American Red Cross and their existing inspections so we could be prepared to act more swiftly in the event of a storm that threatened our community."

The Red Cross offered a different recollection. The organization "was always under the impression that the county might take steps to identify additional shelters beyond those listed" in the Red Cross system, said spokeswoman Elizabeth Penninman. "That kind of flexibility is critical in large and complex disasters like the response to Hurricane Harvey."

Speaking more broadly, Penninman disputed the premise of Harris County's plan. A seven-day response, she wrote in a statement, is "not the Red Cross standard, nor does it reflect the actual performance of the Red Cross and its partners. The Red Cross national standard is to respond immediately, maintain sufficient local resources to handle 48 hours of emergency sheltering activity, and resource for planned peak shelter populations within the continental United States within 96 hours."

Penninman asserted that within 48 hours of the arrival of Harvey, "the Red Cross had 6 shelters open in Harris County with a population of 3,649." And by 96 hours in, she said, the Red Cross was operating 43 shelters serving 14,154 people.

Asked about the county's failure to identify shelters in advance, Sanchez pointed to a space that was used successfully - the NRG Convention Center, which ended up housing 7,400 people - but only at the last minute. According to Sanchez, "Many of the relationships necessary to make that happen were a direct result of writing the mass shelter plan."

But Rene Solis, who leads disaster relief efforts for BakerRiply, said he was unaware of the Mass Shelter Plan. BakerRipley, a nonprofit that focuses on community development, ran the emergency operations at the NRG Center.

The decision to allow BakerRipley to manage the NRG Center was made only the day before the shelter opened, Solis said. "There was no expectation or plan for us to [manage] the NRG Center," Solis said. "It came about because of urgent need."

Asked to identify any ways in which the county adhered to the Mass Shelter Plan, Sanchez said the county "worked to secure a cache of cots and other supplies" to supplement the Red Cross' resources; updated the county's mapping system to reflect the location of existing Red Cross shelters; and "worked extensively to strengthen partnerships with school districts and nonprofits that might support shelter operations."

Here, too, some of Sanchez's assertions didn't square with the memories of others, in this case the Houston Independent School District. "No one from the county asked HISD for anything," said school district spokesperson Lorena Cozzari, "nor did HISD ask the county for anything during the storm."

Notwithstanding the steadfast defense of county efforts by its executives, some staffers seemed to recognize, in emails they sent in the weeks after Harvey, that the planning didn't go as well as hoped.

"We are not a sheltering command for hurricanes," noted a document, labeled "The Harvey Fact Sheet," that circulated among county employees on Oct. 9. "We rely on the Red Cross."

The Texas Tribune is a nonpartisan, nonprofit media organization that informs Texans - and engages with them  about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.

This article originally appeared at https://www.texastribune.org/2018/02/12/houston-area-officials-approved-plan-handling-natural-disaster-then-ig/.The case is more than 30 years old but the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office is still looking for a resolution.

Marilu Geri was murdered on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, 1986. Her body was discovered by Sheriff's Office personnel in the morning at a home in the 9800 block of Chalford Street in the Tealbriar development off of Highway 6. The home belonged to Marilu and Stephen Geri.

"This was a tragic crime that has lingered for more than 30 years," said Sheriff Troy Nehls. "Despite the time frame, we are hoping there are residents who remain in the Houston area or elsewhere who might recall some detail that will lead to an arrest."

Marilu and her husband had recently moved into the Chalford Street home, which is located along Highway 6, north of present-day Sugar Land Airport. Marilu worked with her husband, who operated an insurance business from their upscale home. By all accounts the victim and her husband lived and projected the lifestyle of an affluent couple.

On Feb. 14, 1986, however, Marilu Geri was found bleeding and unresponsive that morning. She was transported to Fort Bend Community Hospital with multiple gunshot wounds and was declared dead at the facility.

The victim was to host a party at their home the day of the murder in a combined celebration of Valentine's Day and the birthday of her mother, Maria Serrato. Tragically, it was Marilu's mother who discovered the crime as she arrived to help with party preparations.

Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers is offering a $20,000 reward in hopes of collecting information that will aid the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office in solving this murder. In the years following the murder, this case garnered national attention as it was profiled by Robert Stack on "Unsolved Mysteries" (https://unsolved.com/gallery/marilu-geri).

Fort Bend County Detectives have submitted physical evidence for laboratory examination using the latest in forensic analysis technology. It is the Sheriff's Office hopes that information provided by anyone with knowledge of this crime coupled with recent advances in forensic technology will result in justice in this case.

Anyone who has information on this crime is asked to call Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers, Inc.

Call (281) 342-TIPS (8477).

Send a text message to FBCCS plus your tip to CRIMES (274637).

Submit online at www.fortbend.crimestoppersweb.com.

Information, which leads to the apprehension and filing of charges on the suspect(s) involved, could earn that person up to a $20,000 cash reward. All calls to Crime Stoppers are anonymous.WASHINGTON - There was a long line for selfies with Hillary Clinton last week at a Georgetown soiree for Lanny Davis, a Clinton loyalist whose latest book blames former FBI director James B. Comey for her 2016 presidential defeat.

Clinton devotees - waiting patiently within earshot - speculated about her future. Maybe, one asked, she'd leave political winter behind and become President Trump's foil? Another talked up a 2020 comeback.

Clinton smiled, but did not respond.

In the first electoral season since the stunning loss that extinguished her years-long drive for the presidency, Clinton, 70, has begun a discreet and low-profile reentry into the political fray.

Her emerging 2018 strategy, according to more than a dozen friends and advisers familiar with her plans, is to leverage the star power she retains in some Democratic circles on behalf of select candidates while remaining sufficiently below the radar to avoid becoming a useful target for Republicans seeking to rile up their base.

Most likely, they said, Clinton will attempt to help Democratic candidates who have a history of supporting her and her family, and expending her political capital in a number of the 23 congressional districts she won in 2016 but are now held by a Republican. Lending a hand to Democrats organizing at a grass-roots level is a priority, they added.

"She's not going to be up front," said Jaime Harrison, a former chairman of the South Carolina Democratic Party and an associate chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

Harrison said Clinton told him in December that she was committed to turning out core blocs in the party, such as African Americans and Latinos. "She's saying, 'Listen, I'm no longer running but we need these groups to be strong and people to vote.' "

Within her orbit, there is an emphasis on Clinton moving cautiously rather than making headlines with a flurry of interviews and endorsements, as former vice president Joe Biden, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and others with White House ambitions are doing at this stage.

The former first lady, secretary of state and Democratic presidential nominee, who has been a polarizing political figure for a quarter century, has accepted that Trump and his allies on Fox News Channel will bring her up seemingly daily, almost as though she were president and mired in scandal, her friends and advisers say.

But Clinton's team also understands that, although she remains popular with many Democrats, she could be a hindrance to candidates running in Trump country. Polls show that her overall image has not improved since the election. A Gallup survey in November found that 36 percent of adults viewed Clinton favorably, while 61 percent viewed her unfavorably, her highest negative ratings on record.

"The resistance is looking for the next savior of the Democratic Party and I don't know how much demand [for Clinton appearances] there will be outside of the districts where she beat Trump," said Patti Solis Doyle, who managed Clinton's 2008 presidential campaign.

A Clinton 2020 campaign has been ruled out, although Trump continues to tweet excitedly about the prospect and mentioned her during a January news conference with the prime minister of Norway.

"No, no, no, no," one former Clinton adviser said when asked whether Clinton has privately floated the idea.

There already are signs that Republicans will seek to draw Clinton into the 2018 debate.

In Missouri, a state Trump won, an ad aired by a conservative group seeking to unseat Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill morphs the two women's faces together as it lists topics on which they agree.

Clinton's image also is featured prominently in leaflets produced by a GOP-aligned group attacking the Democratic candidate running in next month's hotly contested special House election in a Pittsburgh-area House district.

"The reality is Hillary is a nuisance to the Democrats and a gift to Republicans," former Trump aide Sam Nunberg said, noting that GOP groups are building a national effort against another Democratic woman, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California.

Clinton, who remains frustrated and leery about an election defeat that she and her allies have blamed on Russian interference and Comey's handling as FBI director of an investigation of her email, began appearing in public more often last fall around the release of her campaign memoir, "What Happened."

She spoke then about the need for Democratic supporters to get involved in politics and stand up to Trump - but she signaled that her own involvement would be calibrated.

"I am done with being a candidate," Clinton said on CBS's "Sunday Morning" in September.

These days, Clinton is busy with advocacy work and speeches - including an address last week at Georgetown University on women's rights - and remains tight with the sprawling network she and former president Bill Clinton have cultivated for decades. She has not formally returned to the Clinton Foundation, which has scaled back over the past year, but she assists with fundraising and programs she started.

Various promotional events for her book were ticketed, but she has not been jumping back into the paid speaking circuit, said a person close to her.

Clinton has not been shy about expressing her distaste for Trump, whether it's stopping by the Davis gathering or slyly reading "Fire and Fury," an explosive book by Michael Wolff about the Trump White House, in video aired during last month's Grammy Awards.

Clinton's connection to the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct has been a topic of debate within the Democratic Party. Last month, she said she regretted not having fired a senior adviser on her 2008 presidential campaign who was accused of repeatedly sexually harassing a young subordinate.

Party leaders, such as Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York , have voiced their concerns about Bill Clinton and how he responded to misconduct allegations in the 1990s, when Hillary Clinton was first lady amid that firestorm.

As Clinton plans for the midterms, she is relying on some of the same advisers who have been by her side for years.

Her confidante Huma Abedin remains a leading force in her decision-making process, although some Clinton allies bitterly blame the 2016 loss on Abedin's relationship with her disgraced then-husband, former Democratic congressman Anthony Weiner of New York.

The FBI's investigation of Weiner, who was sentenced last fall to 21 months in prison for exchanging illicit messages with a teenager, turned up correspondence between Clinton and Abedin that had not been examined previously as part of its broader inquiry into Clinton's use of a private email server as secretary of state and prompted the bureau to reopen the investigation in the final days of the presidential race. Abedin's attorney said in a statement last month that she was finalizing her divorce from Weiner.

Clinton's primary political vehicle is a nonprofit organization and affiliated super PAC called Onward Together, which she created last year and which directs resources to groups aimed at boosting Democratic candidates and turnout.

Even that enterprise is understated. Its website does not feature her picture. Instead, it lists one of her quotes - "Resist, insist, persist, enlist" - and invites visitors to get involved in upstart groups she supports, such as Indivisible and Run for Something.

Federal election filings show that Clinton's Hillary for America political committee transferred $800,000 in May to Onward Together. A person close to the group called it an "incubator" and said it has given out more than $1 million over the past year.

"Putting herself out there isn't the goal," said former Vermont Democratic governor Howard Dean, who works with Clinton at Onward Together. "Neither is thinking about the politics of this or that. What the group focuses on is helping [Democrats] to mobilize and organize" by providing funding and advice.

Advisers say Clinton has made a practice of calling lesser-known Democratic candidates around the country who are viewed as future stars - a way to provide encouragement without making a formal endorsement or participating in splashy events that would indicate her political return.

When Austin Davis won a state legislative seat in a special election in Pennsylvania last month, Clinton called with congratulations, and Davis soon after posted a snapshot of him taking the call.

Atlanta Democrat Nikema Williams, running last year for a state Senate seat, was invited backstage with Clinton and they posed together for a picture - an endorsement in spirit.

"She told me she was proud of me for stepping up to run for office and was watching my election," Williams wrote later to supporters alongside a photo of their hands clasped. "Like Secretary Clinton, my opponent and detractors call me the establishment." Williams ended up winning the seat.

There have been other small gestures. Last fall, the Nebraska Democratic Party chairman asked Clinton to provide signed copies of "What Happened" for a fundraising auction. She quickly signed the books and sent them to Lincoln.

Clinton is considering whether she will make endorsements in the coming weeks in key races in Illinois and Texas, which will hold primary elections in March and where some past supporters are running. Billionaire J.B. Pritzker, the national co-chairman of Clinton's 2008 presidential campaign, is seeking the Democratic gubernatorial nomination in Illinois, and former State Department and campaign adviser Ed Meier is running for a House seat near Dallas. Clinton advisers said that she is friendly with both candidates, and others running in those states, but that no decisions are imminent.

Clinton did briefly praise Pritzker's campaign in a Chicago speech last fall. It was a "shout out" moment his campaign welcomes in deep-blue Illinois, a Pritzker spokesperson said.

Nationally, there are requests from other candidates under review, said members of the Clinton operation. Clinton's campaign email lists have been shared with Democratic Party committees.

Clinton friends expect that she will be an influential figure in 2020 - as a potential kingmaker, or queen maker, in the Democratic presidential scramble.

"There will be a lot of people competing for the same coalition that she had," former Clinton campaign spokesman Brian Fallon said. "They'll want her support."

---

The Washington Post's Scott Clement, David Weigel and Alice Crites contributed to this report.President Donald Trump proposed a $4.4 trillion federal budget on Monday for fiscal 2019, a plan Congress is expected to all but ignore that would slash entitlements and other domestic programs in favor of higher spending on the military and immigration enforcement.

Trump again asked lawmakers for drastic reductions in environmental, research and diplomatic programs he's long derided as wasteful: a 27 percent cut to the State Department; 34 percent to the Environmental Protection Agency; cost-cutting overhauls to Medicare and other social safety-net programs. That money would be partially diverted toward building a wall on the Mexican border and boosting defense spending.

The Pentagon would see an $80 billion increase in its budget, up 13 percent. Entitlement programs would see a $1.7 trillion cut over a decade, including $237 billion from Medicare.

The budget shows the 2019 deficit nearly doubling from projections last year, to $984 billion. The red ink would total $7.1 trillion over the next decade, the national debt would rise to nearly $30 trillion, and the budget would not balance. That assumes Congress adopts all Trump's proposals, including spending cuts, and the economy doesn't suffer a downturn for at least a decade.

Any president's budget proposal is customarily dismissed by Congress -- which controls the government's purse strings, under the Constitution -- as a dead-on-arrival wish list. That's especially true with this year's document. Just last week, Congress passed its own bipartisan two-year budget agreement that increased caps for both domestic and defense spending.

The White House scrambled over the weekend to re-write its proposal to account for the deal, only increasing the likelihood that legislators dismiss Trump's plan. The agreement boosts spending caps by $300 billion and provides $90 billion in emergency disaster aid.

Here's a look at some of the highlights in the president's plan:

The congressional agreement on spending caps sets the stage for major increases in both defense and domestic accounts. OMB Director Mick Mulvaney, in a letter accompanying the budget, urged Congress to restrain domestic spending despite the agreement, citing the deficit.

Trump's budget takes "money that the Democrats want to put to these social programs and move it to things like infrastructure, move it to things like opioid relief, move it to things that are in line with the president's priorities so that if it does get spent, at least it gets spent to the right places," Mulvaney said Sunday on Fox News.

The tax law that Trump signed in December is by itself projected to add more than $1 trillion to the deficit over the next decade. Domestic spending under the new caps Congress agreed to last week would add $680 billion in deficits over 10 years on top of red ink already in the budget, Mulvaney wrote. He proposed spending $57 billion less than the new cap.

Congress is all but certain to ignore that advice. Lawmakers are already working on a spending bill to meet the new caps and plan to present it to Trump by March 23, the next deadline to fund the government for fiscal 2018.

Fiscal conservatives will be dismayed that Trump's proposal fails to balance the budget over the next ten years, hitherto Republican orthodoxy. Proposals to gut domestic programs are meanwhile anathema to Democrats.

The president's infrastructure plan would reallocate $200 billion in federal funds over the next decade as seed money to spur states, local governments, and the private sector to finance public works projects. The administration estimates it would create as much as $1.5 trillion in investments. Ahead of the budget release on Monday, Trump met with state and local officials at the White House to tout the plan.

"We have some very exciting things to be talking about, things you've been waiting for for a long time, for many, many years, and now let's see how badly you want it," Trump said at the event. "We're really way behind schedule, we're way behind other countries. We always led the way for many, many years. Then a number of decades ago it slowed down, and over the last eight years and 15 years, to be honest, it's come to a halt."

The budget would dramatically increase U.S. immigration enforcement, a hallmark issue for the president. He wants $782 million to hire 2,750 new border and immigration officers and $2.7 billion to detain people who are in the country illegally. Trump also wants $18 billion over the next two fiscal years to build a wall on the U.S. border with Mexico -- a key point of contention in the ongoing legislative battle over people known as "Dreamers" who were brought to the country illegally as children.

Trump also envisions increasing spending on deportation proceedings, with the U.S. currently facing a backlog of some 650,000 cases. The proposal calls for $40 million to support 75 new immigration judges, and another $40 million for 338 new prosecutors at Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Trump would spend $253 million to complete a biometric entry-exit system that the administration says would better help identify terrorists and criminals.

The White House envisions a massive $80 billion boost to defense spending, by far the largest increase for any federal department. The proposal includes the purchase of new ships for the U.S. Navy and calls for adding 24 Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet jets in fiscal 2019 and 110 new jets over the next decade. It would fund 20 new missile defense interceptors and silos, a new "homeland defense radar" in Hawaii and, for the first time, a "salvo" test to fire two interceptors at once at an incoming target.

Trump's overall national security budget -- which includes Energy Department nuclear weapons programs and defense-related activities at the FBI and smaller agencies -- would total $716 billion.

The budget once again guts U.S. diplomatic and foreign aid spending, cutting more than 29 percent -- about $17 billion -- from 2017 levels for the State Department and other international programs.

The administration says that by cutting foreign assistance, the U.S. would promote "self-reliance" among developing countries, ultimately ending their need for aid. The administration also said it would review contributions to multilateral organizations like the United Nations to evaluate if the spending "advances American interests."

Some programs do survive the proposed cuts. The administration requests $4.6 billion for the protection of American diplomats and staff overseas and $8.2 billion to upgrade the State Department's information technology. The budget also includes continued aid to Israel under the terms of a 10-year agreement reached last year.

And the construction of a new U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem "will be among the Department's highest priority for capital security investments in FY 2018 and FY 2019," according to the budget.

Trump requested $13 billion in new funding to combat the opioid epidemic, which he has frequently cited as among his top domestic priorities. The president's proposal includes $50 million for an anti-opioid media campaign, $50 million for overdose-reversal drugs to be distributed to emergency workers, and $100 million for prevention activities, including a state-based program to monitor painkiller prescriptions. Trump also envisions a $100 million public-private partnership between the National institutes of Health and the pharmaceutical industry to develop treatments for addiction, overdose reversal, and non-addictive painkillers.

The proposal also includes $85.5 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs -- nearly a 15 percent increase, one of the largest in the budget. That includes a 9.6 percent increase for veterans' health services and $11.9 billion to expand health care options for former service members outside the VA system.

The budget proposes to "transition away from Obamacare" by changing the way Medicaid, the health program for the poor, is financed. The Affordable Care Act gave states the option to expand the program, in which spending is now relatively open-ended, to cover more people earning poverty-level wages. Trump would change Medicaid financing dramatically, giving states a choice between a per-person cap on federal payments under the program or a block grant. Either option would provide a fixed amount of money each year but with fewer federal rules on its use.

Trump also proposes to cut federal payments to home-health agencies and nursing homes by $80 billion over a decade and to reduce payments to hospitals by nearly $200 billion, including reductions for hospital-owned doctor's offices.

Funding for U.S. passenger rail would be cut in half under the budget proposal. The Trump budget proposes $738 million to fund Amtrak, which requires subsidies for routes that lose money -- a 51 percent cut.

The budget proposes that states step in to help fund money-losing Amtrak service. While revenues are up on the Northeast Corridor between Boston and Washington, most passenger rail service elsewhere in the country loses money.

The comparisons in this article are based on the enacted spending levels for fiscal 2017, the last year that figures for full funding of the government are available. The government has been operating on stopgap funding since Oct. 1, the beginning of fiscal 2018. While the White House provided an addendum to account for the spending deal Trump signed on Friday, numbers for some agencies and programs may be subject to change.

---

Bloomberg's Steven T. Dennis, Zachary Tracer, Anna Edney, Alan Levin and Tony Capaccio congtributed.JERUSALEM - Two Israeli soldiers using the navigation app Waze were attacked by an angry mob Monday after accidentally driving through the Palestinian city of Jenin in the northern West Bank.

The incident was confirmed by the Israeli military, which said rocks were hurled at the car, which was clearly marked as an army vehicle. A weapon was stolen from one soldier, and one soldier was injured lightly, the army said in a statement.

The army said it was investigating the incident.

A graphic video of the incident shows the two soldiers - one male and one female - inside the car as a large group of Palestinians surrounds it, shouting. Within seconds, the car's windows are smashed and those involved in the attack can be seen reaching inside the car, grabbing and pulling hard at the female soldier's hair.

When the "dangerous areas" setting is enabled, Israeli drivers receive multiple warnings that they are entering areas A and B in the West Bank. Area A is under full Palestinian security control and is considered highly dangerous by Israeli authorities.

"It still happens about once a week," said the military source, who spoke anonymously to discuss the incident more openly. "Sometimes it is soldiers, sometimes Israeli civilians, sometimes they are using Waze, sometimes they just end up in these areas by mistake."

And each case ends differently, said the source. Many times, Palestinian security forces help escort the Israelis out of the Palestinian areas and hand them over to Israeli authorities.

In the video of Monday's incident, a Palestinian policeman can be seen tapping on the window and talking to the soldiers. He also tells the crowd to take it easy.

Two years ago, a similar incident prompted a gun battle at the Palestinian refugee camp of Qalandiya, near Ramallah. Two soldiers had entered the area by mistake, and Israeli forces were sent to rescue them.GLEN CARBON  Investigators are still trying to determine the identity of a black man who was shot several times and left for dead on a street in rural Glen Carbon.

The shooting happened shortly after 8 p.m. on Chaparral Lane, outside the village limits.

At this point we dont have any idea why hes where hes at. This is a quiet residential area, and this is out of the ordinary for something of this magnitude to happen in this neighborhood, said Madison County Sheriffs Major Jeff Connor.

A 9-1-1 call came in to the Sheriffs Department at 8:13 p.m. Sunday. Deputies arrived at the scene to find the body in the street, and a short time later a coroners deputy pronounced the man dead at the scene, according to a news release from the Sheriffs Department.

At 9:30 p.m. Sunday Sheriff John Lakin requested the assistance of the Major Case Squad.

On Monday, Connor said that more than 20 officers had been working with the Sheriffs Department.

Were working on an ID right now, Connor said shortly before noon. We believe we know who he is but were waiting on fingerprints to confirm. Then well make the proper notification to the family and then release that information later on.Police in New York said Monday that a letter containing "an unidentified substance" was mailed to the home of Donald Trump Jr., the president's oldest son.

Trump's wife, Vanessa, opened the letter and was taken to a hospital as a result, according to the New York Police Department.Back when Nazi storm clouds were gathering over Europe, otherwise capable leaders were ignoring and misreading them. Playwright and icon George Bernard Shaw, a shrewd observer of human nature and vocal political theorist, appraised Mussolini as a kindly, most amiable man and Hitler as a very intelligent gentleman.

When Shaw reassured the world, Dont be frightened anymore about the Germans, many of his late 1930s contemporaries were only too willing to believe him and the chorus of equally soothing voices. Winston Churchills war alarms were simply too extreme and disquieting.

Sadly, Churchills grim perception and prophecies proved true.

Clearly, Im no Churchill. But I see storm clouds.

Im talking about the President. Im not one who protests that hes not my President. By the terms of the Constitution to which I claim allegiance, he was duly elected. However, that same Constitution details more than the process of election. Its words and the body of derivative precedents and customs dating back to George Washington are our government.

We have been governed by exceptional men and mediocre men, but we have not been a government of men. Were a government of laws.

That whole body of law is as sacred as the law that made Donald Trump our President. None of us - not me, not him - are above those laws. Both of us are subject to those laws and to the same penalties when we violate those laws.

You cannot champion the law that made him President while you disregard the laws he disobeys. You cannot swear by the one while you wink at the others.

I heard him assail Mexicans as murderers and rapists. I saw him point to my African-American. And after he dismissed Africa as a s-hole continent, I heard him claim to be the least racist person you have ever interviewed.

I heard him mock John McCains ordeal as a prisoner of war, even as he claimed to love our vets. I heard him boast to know more about ISIS than the generals and assail those generals as rubble. Now he wants a parade.

Ive heard him pose as a victim of McCarthyism, even as he demanded his own Roy Cohn to manipulate the law to protect him.

Ive heard him attack the judiciary. Ive heard him solicit violence against the free press.

Ive heard him brag about assaulting women.

Ive heard his endless, baseless fictions.

Ive heard him lie. Serially.

All this and more is well-known, well-documented, and indisputable.

We are so worn down by excess and the abuse of common decency, and grown so accustomed to ignoring evidence, that rather than believe our eyes, ears, and right reason, all of which point to his complicity in wrongdoing, we would sooner believe that the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Justice Department, federal judges, and a procession of lifelong public servants, many of whom are Republicans, have conspired to falsely accuse Donald Trump, a rampant narcissist who has compiled a record, from Manhattan to Atlantic City to the White House, of lying, flaunting custom and the law, and proudly acting in his own narrow self-interest.

Donald Trump deserves the fair application of the law. But the nation deserves the unfettered application of the law.

That law allows for the removal of a President for just cause.

That law permits members of Congress to remain seated when the President speaks. That law permits any of us to withhold applause even when the President thinks he deserves it. Its not un-American to disagree with him. If it were, we would still be bowing to the king.

It certainly isnt treason.

If the President knew the Constitution, he would know that James Madison was deliberately not glib when in that Constitution he defined treason against the United States as consisting only in levying war against them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort.

I dont know why every member of Congress, Republicans included, didnt rise up to defend their colleagues prerogative to sit, or why they didnt see the Presidents charge of treason as an assault on the separation of powers. I dont know why Republicans contort themselves to defend words and actions that are increasingly indefensible.

There is no gain in advancing your party if you lose your country in the bargain.

Some of the Presidents partisans will argue that his cry of treason was just Trump being Trump. Thats precisely the problem. Trump is Trump.

I do agree with the President on one point. It is a disgrace whats happening in our country, and a lot of people should be ashamed of themselves, and much worse than that.

As for treason, we do have enemies. Obstructing the search for those enemies isnt the act of a patriot.

Just over sixty years ago, Joseph Welch, the armys lawyer at the McCarthy hearings, famously and bravely asked the senator if he had left no sense of decency.

Even Richard Nixon had the decency to resign.

He was confronted by Republicans with the decency to demand it.

I fear its pointless to ask if this President has any pangs of conscience. But we can ask Congress, and we can ask ourselves.

We must ask. Have we left any sense of decency?

Nations do fall.

The fate of ours hangs on our answer.

Peter Berger teaches English in Weathersfield, Vermont. Poor Elijah would be pleased to answer letters addressed to him in care of the editor.Spouses and children abound on the opening day of the Maryland General Assembly's annual session, so Shirley Gravely-Currie's presence next to her husband, Sen. Ulysses Currie, D-Prince George's, was unremarkable.

But then Gravely-Currie returned the next day. And the day after that. And the day after that.

Since the Jan. 10 start of the 90-day legislative session, Currie's wife has sat an arms-length away from her husband in a reserved seat, Senate floor credentials dangling from a lanyard around her neck.

Her presence has drawn attention not only to her husband's diminishing health but also the graying of the Maryland legislature, and the delicate question in this statehouse and others of how long is too long to serve.

"Too many people don't want to let go . . . They don't want to pass the torch to the next generation," said Belinda Queen-Howard, who represents Currie's legislative district on the county's Democratic Central Committee and was part of a group that objected to a plan last year to have Currie retire and allow his wife to complete his term.

As Americans live and work longer, it has become more common to see aging lawmakers on Capitol Hill or in statehouses across the country. Late last year, Congress delayed action on several key pieces of legislation to accommodate older, ailing senators.

Perhaps because of an unusually large crop of new lawmakers elected in 2014, Maryland is actually one of the youngest state legislatures in the country, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The average age of a lawmaker in Annapolis is 57. But a half-dozen delegates and senators, including Currie, are octogenarians, and nearly 30, including Senate President Thomas "Mike" Miller, D-Calvert, and House Speaker Michael Busch, D-Anne Arundel, are in their 70s.

Currie, 80, is not the oldest member of the body (that distinction belongs to Del. Sheila Hixson, who turns 85 this month), but he stands apart from his peers because he is the only lawmaker with a close family member who appears to be providing assistance with daily legislative duties. Currie votes on legislation, but he seldom participates in discussions.

The senator declined a request for an interview.

Gravely-Currie, 67, described her husband as "fully engaged" in his legislative duties, and said she is spending time with him in the statehouse this session as part of her research for a book she is writing on his life.

"If my husband were planning to run for reelection at his age, I would understand your story angle. However, he is not," Gravely-Currie said in response to questions about Currie's health. "His health is of no concern to your readers."

There is no procedure for removing a legislator from office because of failing health.

Hixson, like Currie, is known to have a tendency to forget or repeat herself. She was removed last year from her position as chairwoman of the House Ways and Means Committee. And after some coaxing from friends, she announced in November that she does not plan to run for an 11th term.

During an interview last year, she talked about her career, which spans more than four decades.

"New delegates will come in and say, 'I've got this great idea for a bill,' and my staff will say: 'Sheila put that in 20 years ago,' " Hixson said, adding with a smile: "Not that I've been around too long."

Currie, a 32-year lawmaker who was acquitted in a federal corruption case in 2011, announced in November 2016 that he planned to retire. He cited his declining health and said he could "no longer serve with the strength and energy you all deserve."

Miller supported Currie's plan to have his wife fill the seat and expected the county's Democratic Central Committee to back it as well. But most members of the committee resisted, saying other interested candidates, who weren't handpicked by the party establishment, deserved a chance to compete for the seat.

In response to the standoff, Currie, considered the dean of African-American lawmakers in the statehouse, rescinded his resignation.

Former delegate Melony Griffith, Del. Angela Angel, D-Prince George's, and newcomer Jonathan Rosero have filed to run for his seat in November.

In the meantime, Gravely-Currie is attending meetings intended solely for lawmakers, including a recent breakfast with Gov. Larry Hogan, R, and members of the Legislative Black Caucus. Last week, she sat on the floor of the House chamber, in a seat reserved for senators, during Hogan's State of the State speech.

Gravely-Currie doesn't vote and hasn't participated in committee hearings or floor sessions. She occasionally reads papers that come across her husband's desk, and following a recent Senate session, she walked around the chamber to gather signatures of co-sponsors for a bill to expand funding for Head Start that Currie is sponsoring.

She also acts as her husband's chauffeur in Annapolis, although she said Currie still drives around the Prince George's County neighborhood where they have lived for decades.

Asked about Currie's physical and mental health, she said: "He's physically in better shape than me . . . It's hard keeping up with him sometimes."

And his mental shape?

"What he says to me and others who ask is: 'I'm not like I used to be,' " she said. "But who is?"

The senator's colleagues are reluctant to talk publicly about why his wife has been by his side in the statehouse this year.

"It is what it is," shrugged one senator, who declined to be named discussing a colleague.

"Some days he's sharp, others not so much," said another senator, who also asked not to be named but recalled Currie showing up in the wrong committee room last year and apologizing for being late.

Miller, through a spokesman, declined to comment.

Some supporters in Currie's legislativedistrict say the senator, who has served as a mentor for many young black lawmakers, should be able to finish his last term without scrutiny.

"You don't mess with grandpa," said one constituent, who is politically active and asked not to be named because the topic is sensitive.

But Queen-Howard disagreed, saying many of Currie's constituents are aware of his failing health. She said Currie should have already stepped aside.

"A lot of people think passing the torch means to the young," Queen-Howard said. "It could be someone who is just in the next generation, the next person waiting in line."The open immigration debate that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., promised, to put an end last month's government shutdown, will begin Monday night in the Senate. It may be the most consequential storyline of the week, but even the savviest insiders are unsure about how it will play out - including the majority leader.

Most coverage of this issue focuses on Latinos activists and the immigration groups that have been occupying congressional offices or staging large-scale protests. But this fight also poses a major test for hardline advocacy groups on the right, who worry that President Trump will wind up giving too much ground to cut a deal.

Democrats are focused on passing a narrow bill to protect the "dreamers," those undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. Trump says he's willing to give a pathway to citizenship for the 1.8 million people who are eligible for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA), but only if he gets funding for a border wall, restrictions on family-based legal migration and an end to the diversity lottery program. Democrats and border-state Republicans say that's a bridge too far.

Heritage Action, one of the more influential advocacy groups on the right, loves the proposals to restrict future immigration but spent the weekend mobilizing its grass-roots army to oppose giving citizenship to anyone who entered the U.S. unlawfully, no matter how old they were when they came.

"We're always going to call true north, and this is an amnesty bill," Heritage Action chief executive Michael Needham said during a recent interview. "Amnesty is the wrong way to go, and we're not going to flinch off that. We're also recognizing that the fact of the matter is the president, and it seems like the political center of gravity in the Congress, is to do some sort of limited amnesty for the dreamers. And I think in that context, in terms of getting a victory, chain migration is just a commonsense one. . . . We don't want to be a cheap date, but we want to get to yes."

This posture captures the evolving role that conservative groups like Heritage Action are playing in the Trump era, marked by their newfound willingness to compromise. The group is willing to call out apostasies while also offering sufficient positive reinforcement to ensure that it keeps a seat at the table.

Heritage Action's relationship with GOP leaders on Capitol Hill was especially fraught during Barack Obama's second term, after the group played a starring role in forcing the 2013 government shutdown in a quixotic bid to defund Obamacare. Lawmakers from the establishment wing of the party routinely grumbled about their influence. The rapport has improved somewhat, and Needham said he has a more professional working relationship with congressional leadership now that Republicans have unified control.

"Their job at the end of the day is to count to 218 and get something through, and my job is to try to make whatever comes out of the House and the Senate as conservative as possible," Needham explained during a wide-ranging conversation in his office near the Capitol. "There's a difference when you're in the minority versus governing. One of the real problems that we had when Republicans were in the minority, or only controlled the House, is that we thought that was the time they should be painting in bold colors. . . . Now we're at the point where maybe taking 50 percent of a loaf is what you want."

Needham, 37, founded Heritage Action in 2010 as an independent advocacy arm of the think tank that's existed since 1973. "The job of think tanks, and what we're part of, is to make our principles relevant to the mood of the moment, and one of the things that Trump exposed is that we haven't done that as well as we should have," he said. "The movement is really good at saying what Ronald Reagan said in 1980. . . . What Trump did was he made a brilliant diagnosis of where the country is right now. This is not a confident America, as the House Republican slogan was in 2016. It's an anxious America."

While the president "diagnosed" the country's problems, Needham said Trump never came up with all the solutions to solve them and, on issues like trade, blamed the wrong boogeyman: "I don't even think he would claim he's thought through: what's the policy agenda that naturally flows out of all of this?"

Despite unified Republican control of Washington, this can sometimes be a frustrating time for movement conservatives who are determined not to get caught under the spell of Trump's force of personality. Never forget that the president was a registered Democrat until September 2009.

In the summer of 2015, when nobody thought Trump could win the Republican nomination, Needham called him "a clown" who shouldn't be in the race on "Fox News Sunday." That September, The Donald canceled a scheduled appearance at a Heritage Action cattle call event in South Carolina. He said it was because he had to close a "significant business transaction," but that appeared to be an excuse.

Needham has nothing negative to say about Trump personally, but he said he'll always criticize his policies when they aren't conservative. The group opposed the first version of the Obamacare repeal bill in the House last spring, before Trump pulled it from consideration. That earned a rebuke from the president on Twitter. Heritage Action also pushed back immediately when Trump suggested a return to the era of earmarks. "It's honestly the stupidest idea I've heard this year," Needham told me when we talked. The group opposed last week's bipartisan budget agreement because it will dramatically increase the size of government, just as it opposed the September deal that Trump cut with Democrats to tie the debt ceiling to emergency disaster spending.

But despite those futile efforts, Needham stressed that his goal is to be as constructive as possible. Rather than just oppose an infrastructure package, as it might have in the past, Heritage Action is working closely with the administration to make sure that any bill uses as few tax dollars as possible while including provisions to water down environmental regulations and emasculate unions.

Heritage is also eager to credit Trump for embracing its ideas. By the think tank's count, about 70 former employees either currently work in the Trump administration or had jobs on the transition team. A report released after the 2016 election outlined 334 policy recommendations for the incoming president. The foundation tabulated last month that two-thirds of them were either included in last year's budget, implemented through regulatory guidance or remain actively under consideration. Among the victories on their list: Trump's decision to leave the Paris climate accord, repeal net neutrality, scale back public lands, reinstate the Mexico City abortion policy and withdraw from UNESCO.

But Trump remains a wild card. One problem for groups like Heritage Action is that it's really hard to convince Republican congressmen to vote against something once the president offers his imprimatur, even if it goes against positions they've espoused in the past. He's so popular with the base, there's such fear of crossing him among the rank-in-file and it turns out most Republican politicians didn't really hold the convictions they claimed during the Obama era that deeply. That creates a worrisome prospect for the immigration hawks. He may have staked out a hardline negotiating position, but the former real estate developer could be seduced by the allure of a grand bargain. If he comes out in favor of amnesty without much in return, he could declare victory and most Republicans would probably go along.

It's no coincidence that the last president to enact a major amnesty program for undocumented immigrants was Ronald Reagan, who had credibility with conservatives to compromise in a way that George W. Bush did not during his second term. "One of the lessons of 1986 is that when you provide amnesty, especially amnesty without the kind of wholesale change to the system that matches demand for labor with supply of labor in a smart way, you are going to have a problem that comes back five years from now, 10 years from now," said Needham. "And Washington only solves problems once every 30 years."ICE has taken an aggressive approach under the Trump administration. Photo: Brian van der Brug/LA Times via Getty Images

When President Trump took office more than a year ago, many feared that his administration would create a mass deportation force to round up millions of immigrants who are in the country illegally.

That hasnt happened. But the reality has still been sobering.

The Washington Post reported on Monday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested 37,734 undocumented noncriminal immigrants in the 2017 fiscal year, more than double the amount in 2016. This category of people includes those facing charges and those with no criminal records at all.

ICE also arrested 105,736 immigrants who had been convicted of crimes, a small uptick from 2016. The overall number of arrests was up 40 percent from the previous year, but still well below previous highs; in 2013, at the peak of its enforcement, the Obama administration deported a record high 434,015 people. Obama shifted priorities after that year, when it became clear that Congress would not pass a comprehensive immigration reform bill, and the deportation numbers plunged.

The leap in arrests last year can almost certainly be traced back to a distinct shift in priorities laid out by the Trump administration shortly after the president came into office. Weeks after his inauguration, the Department of Homeland Security issued new guidelines that allowed ICE to adopt a more aggressive posture than it had in the latter years of the Obama administration.

This means that immigrants who had previously considered themselves safe from deportation are much more likely to be rounded up in a raid, or at the check-ins with ICE that had previously been routine affairs. And ICE agents who were previously told only to target people who were high priorities for removal  drug dealers, gang members, and the like  are more likely to sweep up people who have no involvement with their ostensible targets.

Many ICE leaders and agents had considered themselves severely limited by the Obama administrations directives. Morale amongst our agents and officers has increased exponentially since the signing of the orders, the unions representing ICE and Border Patrol agents said in a statement last year, shortly after the new diktat went into effect. Thomas Homan, the border-wall-supporting acting head of the agency, has been unapologetic about the shift in priorities. If you violate the laws of this country, if you enter illegally  which is a crime  its not going to be okay anymore, he said recently.

This indiscriminate approach has sparked plenty of outrage, with new cases receiving national attention regularly. Just in the last few weeks, there was Syed Ahmed Jamal, a 54-year-old chemist with no criminal record beyond speeding tickets, who was arrested while taking his daughter to school; a Palestinian business owner and father of four who had helped revitalize Youngstown, Ohio, but was deported after 38 years anyway; the Detroit man forced to say a tearful farewell to his wife and children after 30 years, despite lacking any criminal record; and more.

Still, multiple factors have limited the number of arrests the Trump administration can make. Many major cities that dont agree with the administrations approach have policies forbidding them to turn over immigrants who have been detained for unrelated violations, and there are simply not enough ICE agents to track down the roughly 11 million people who are in the country illegally. And once ICE arrests someone, there are often formidable obstacles to actually deporting them, most notably an enormous backlog in immigration courts.

But this is all cold comfort for many undocumented immigrants who had become used to a certain degree of freedom, and who now find themselves in a much more precarious situation.A high-speed train derailed over I-5 on December 18, 2017, near Tacoma, Washington. Photo: KATHRYN ELSESSER/AFP/Getty Images

In the past two months, there have been four fatal accidents involving Amtrak trains. In December three people died on a train making its first trip on a track between Seattle and Portland. On January 14 a North Carolina couple died when their SUV was hit by a train. On January 31 a train carrying Republican members of Congress to their retreat in West Virginia hit a garbage truck, killing the driver. Then on February 4, two train operators were killed when a passenger train slammed into a parked freight train in South Carolina.

Federal investigators are still looking into these incidents, which all appear to have different causes. But the string of fatalities has brought new attention to the failure of D.C. lawmakers to prioritize train safety, even when the lawmakers themselves are involved in a crash.

Congress hasnt ignored the issue entirely, but so far its failed to make its own train-safety requirements a reality. In 2008, a California train crash that killed 25 people led to the passage of law requiring that positive train control (PTC) be installed on all tracks that carry passenger trains. PTC uses GPS and other sensors to track trains movements, and can automatically bring trains to a halt if theyre headed for a derailment or collision. The National Transportation Safety Board has been recommending PTC for decades, and according to its analysis, the technology could have prevented 298 deaths and 6,763 injures due to train crashes between 1969 and May 2015. Experts say PTC could have stopped the recent accidents in Washington State and South Carolina, too.

The 2008 law said PTC must be in place on most major rail lines by 2015. However, when the time came several railroads, including Amtrak, said they couldnt make the deadline and threatened to suspend commuter service and sharply curtail freight shipments. In October 2015, Congress tucked an extension into a larger highway bill, avoiding a debilitating rail shutdown. Now the railroads have until December 31, 2018  and if lines meet certain milestones they can request a two-year extension beyond that to make their system fully functional. As of September, PTC was installed on only 24 percent of the nations passenger-route miles and 45 percent of freight-route miles.

Theres been plenty of finger-pointing about why PTC isnt in place across the board. Railroads continued spending money on other priorities, and even opened new lines without PTC. For example, the system wont be implemented on the new Seattle-Portland track until next spring.

Some train-safety advocates say railroads didnt plan or spend wisely, then deployed lobbyists to urge Congress to push the deadlines. The New York Times reports that two Republicans behind the extension, Representative Bill Shuster and Senator Roy Blunt, were the top two recipients of campaign contributions from the railroad industry in 2016.

Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, who sits on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, called the delays scandalously irresponsible.

They have been directly the result of railroads using their political sway to achieve repeated postponements, he said.

Railroads blame members of Congress and regulators, saying they picked an arbitrary deadline, and told them they had to foot the massive bill themselves, and offered little assistance as they tried to implement a complex system.

Passenger lines often operate on rails owned by freight companies, and for PTC to work correctly different versions of the technology need to communicate instantly.

Its not something you go to Radio Shack and say, Well, Ill take a PTC system. Its not a plug-and-go system, former NTSB managing director Peter Goelz told Politico in 2015. They had to create it from scratch.

Congress mostly refused to provide funding for the project, and railroads clashed with the Federal Communications Commission over securing the necessary wireless airwaves.

Joseph Boardman, a former chief executive of Amtrak, recently told the Times that the entire Northeast Corridor could have had PTC years ago if Congress hadnt continually cut the railroads funding. Its the same problem that you see everywhere with the infrastructure funding  not enough being available to do the job, he said.

Its highly unlikely that train safety will get a boost from President Trumps new infrastructure plan  or as Politico puts it, his statement of principles that Congress will have to translate into legislation. The proposal, which the Trump administration is finally rolling out on Monday, doesnt make sense on a practical or political level.

The general idea is that by offering $200 billion in federal funds, the federal government will spur $1.3 trillion in infrastructure investments from states, municipalities, and the private sector. Its unclear where the $200 billion would come from, but incredibly, the White House has suggested cuts to mass transit and Amtrak could help pay for the plan. As the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities noted, this is consistent with Trumps 2018 budget, which proposed a 49 percent cut to Amtrak, a 49 percent cut to mass transit capital investment grants, and elimination of the TIGER program, which has supported some of the most innovative local infrastructure projects over the last eight years.

Even if states could suddenly come up with that kind of money, its hard to see why Senate Democrats would hand Trump a victory months before the midterms. Furthermore, what hes suggesting is an unworkable plan, thats likely to reduce money for social programs and mass transit, and divert infrastructure funding to (mostly red) rural areas.

The Trump administrations other railroad-related woes arent just theoretical. The Federal Railroad Administration, the nations top railroad-safety agency, hasnt had a permanent leader for more than a year, and last week its top official resigned. Politico reported that deputy administrator Heath Hall, who was appointed last summer, stepped down amid questions from the media about why he was still working as a public-relations consultant in Mississippi.

The vacancy at the top of the Federal Railroad Administration is the result of Trumps clash with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer over another problem with Americas railway infrastructure. Trump has signaled that he intends to scrap the Gateway Program, which includes building a new rail tunnel under the Hudson River between New Jersey and New York City. The Obama administration had reached an agreement with the states to share the cost of replacing the deteriorating 108-year-old tunnel thats key to the regions economy, and must shut down for repairs within 20 years. New York and New Jersey senators are blocking Trumps pick to lead the agency, Ron Batory, in an effort to push him into backing the project  sparking accusations from the right that Schumer and company are putting rail passengers lives at risk.

The issues facing the U.S. rail system existed long before Trump and many current members of Congress took office, and fixing them wont be easy  but we do know the solution. As the Daily Beast notes, PTC has already been successfully implemented in most rail lines in Europe and Japan, and even in poorer countries like Mozambique. Yet most lawmakers in the U.S. only mention the problem in the days after a terrible accident.

The infrastructure plan lawmakers will be debating over the coming weeks and months includes $20 billion for transformative projects that can lift the American spirit. Its not entirely clear what that means, but saving Americans from preventable train deaths and injuries seems like a worthier goal.Five cars were damaged Monday in a crash that pushed a parked vehicle into a West Side theater.

Police said 37-year-old Teffany Lumpkin was driving south in the 1900 block of Fredericksburg Road around 11:30 a.m. when a white van pulled out in front of her.

She swerved, losing control of her car and smashing into four cars parked outside the Classic Theatre San Antonio, which is adjacent to the Woodlawn Theater. One of the cars Lumpkin crashed into was shoved into the Classic Theatre, shattering two windows.

No one was injured in the crash.

RELATED: Driver hospitalized after crashing into H-E-B delivery truck in San Antonio

Police said no charges will be filed in the case, but Lumpkin may receive a citation for speeding.

Lumpkin said she was on her way to work when the driver pulled out in front of her and hit her car. Police said there was no collision between the two.

"This spot right here is an accident waiting to happen," she said. "This is bad. Somebody needs to do something."

Lumpkin, who had a passenger with her at the time of the crash, said she's thankful she wasn't injured in the crash.

"God's on my side. That's all I got to say," she said. "I'm meant to be here. I got a purpose. Probably so they can save some lives and fix this damn thing right here."

Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com

Caleb Downs is a crime reporter for mySA.com. Read more of his stories here.| cdowns@mysa.com | Twitter: @calebjdownsA 3-year-old boy died Sunday morning after being found unresponsive in a pool at a Stone Oak-area swim school Saturday evening, according to authorities.

Sunday afternoon the Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office identified the boy as Mitchell Chang, and reported he died at 5:35 a.m.

According to Officer Carlos Ortiz, the boy was found by staff members in the deep end of a pool at the Love to Swim School on the 20200 block of Stone Oak Parkway.

Ortiz said staff called emergency personnel around 7:45 p.m. and were performing CPR on the child when emergency medical personnel and police arrived.

It is unclear how long the boy was in the pool, or how the child came to be in the pool by himself.

The school was hosting a parent's "date night" Saturday evening, according to the school's website.

The 3-year-old was transported to North Central Baptist Hospital in critical condition where he later died.

Police are calling the incident a "tragic accident," and no one at the school is currently facing any charges.

aluna@express-news.net | Twitter: alexluna801

Staff Writer Chris Quinn contributed to this report.A man was hospitalized with serious injuries Monday morning after crashing into an H-E-B delivery truck on the Northeast Side.

The driver, 47-year-old Ronny Fox, was headed south on Nacogdoches Road near Rockhill Drive around 5:55 a.m. when he smashed into the bottom of the 18-wheeler, which was backing into the parking lot, according to police.

RELATED: Boy who drowned at a N. Side swim school has been identified

Fox was pinned inside his car after the crash, and firefighters had to free him from the wreckage. To their shock, the driver was still breathing when they freed him.

"Everybody's surprised by that," said Sgt. Abel Balderas said.

Paramedics took Fox to University Hospital in serious condition. Police said he was fortunate to survive the crash, as the undercarriage of the 18-wheeler's trailer was level to where his head would have been.

RELATED: Boy, 3, has died after being found unresponsive at a Stone Oak-area swim school

Sgt. Balderas said it's unclear if speed was a factor in the crash, but a witness said the H-E-B truck had signals flashing as it stopped on Nacogdoches and backed into the lot. According to a preliminary police report, the driver of the 18-wheeler honked to alert Fox.

The northbound and southbound lanes of Nacogdoches Road are closed as traffic detectives investigate the crash.

Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com

Caleb Downs is a crime reporter for mySA.com. Read more of his stories here.| cdowns@mysa.com | Twitter: @calebjdownsFLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP)  A wooden box carried an eagle feather and bone whistle, a gourd rattle and a feather fan  items that carry spiritual energy and are used in Native American religious ceremonies.

The man holding the box asked security agents at the San Antonio International Airport to allow him to display the items so their energy wouldn't be polluted. The agents declined, roughly handling the items and shoving them back in the box, according to Sandor Iron Rope, former president of the Native American Church of North America.

His lawsuit against the Transportation Security Administration was settled last month, with neither side acknowledging fault and the agency agreeing to better educate its employees about Native American religious items at more than a dozen airports nationwide.

RELATED: San Antonio airport gets nonstop route with flights starting at $39

"There was a policy in place designed to provide some protection for us, but they don't have training," Iron Rope said Wednesday. "Not everybody is familiar with the policies."

The TSA did not respond to messages seeking comment this week.

The Native American Church has multiple chapters around the country and an estimated 250,000 members. The church that formed in 1918 blends Native American beliefs and Christianity but doesn't have formal buildings. Instead, its members meet in teepees for lengthy ceremonies and use peyote as a sacrament.

Its most visible legal battles have been over peyote, a hallucinogenic that only grows naturally in the United States in southern Texas. States had varied laws on Native Americans' use of the cactus until the early 1990s, when a federal law allowed Native Americans who are part of the church to possess peyote.

For anyone else, it's illegal, in the same category as heroin and cocaine. Membership cards cite the federal law and another that allows Native Americans to possess migratory birds.

One of Iron Rope's attorneys, Forrest Tahdooahnippah, said church members have had enough bad experiences to discourage them from air travel. He said Iron Rope had no indication agents believed his ceremonial items were dangerous.

"That's part of the reason we felt there should have been a lawsuit in the first place," he said. "Screening of items should be reserved for things TSA has a legitimate suspicion are going to be a danger to traveler safety."

Passengers can do their part by alerting the TSA at least 72 hours in advance to carry-on items that need additional screening and by clearly communicating beliefs, said Richard Bloom, director of terrorism, intelligence and security studies at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona.

Security agents cannot be trained in all religions, but he said they can improve on dealing with the unknown.

"A little bit of sensitivity and respect and really being open to the unique needs of a religious individual can go a long way toward negotiating something that works for the individual and for the TSA," Bloom said.

Not all religious items would be allowed on planes with passengers, however.

The TSA prohibits religious knives like the kirpan. Sikhs who carry them do not view them as weapons or accessories but as extensions of their being and their belief that they are protectors of the weak.

RELATED: San Antonio International Airport opens new consolidated rental car facility

The Sikh Coalition, a civil rights organization, has issued travel guidelines alerting the community that kirpans can be in checked baggage only, and the faithful generally adhere. But the coalition has represented at least one Sikh man who was charged for carry kirpans through airport security. The case eventually was dropped.

As part of the settlement with the Native American Church of North America, the TSA and the plaintiffs will collaborate on a webinar that will be available to agents who work with passengers well ahead of their flights to move items through security.

Those webinars will be shown to TSA employees in Albuquerque and Farmington, New Mexico; Durango, Colorado; Great Falls, Montana; Minot, North Dakota; Rapid City and Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and San Antonio, Laredo and McAllen, Texas.

Certain TSA employees in Saint Paul, Minnesota; Omaha, Nebraska; Oklahoma City; Phoenix; and Denver will have to review guidelines for screening Native American religious items.

A fact sheet for travelers with Native American religious items will be published in the next three months, and the church will be able to advise and make recommendations to the TSA.

"We're hopeful we'll have a place at the table now so that any future concerns will be addressed quicker and more efficiently than through a lawsuit," Tahdooahnippah said.

___

Associated Press video producer Noreen Nasir in Washington, D.C., contributed to this story.Boston Globe/Boston Globe via Getty Images

BOSTON (AP)  State and federal law enforcement authorities say they have seized more than 77 pounds (35 kilograms) of illegal drugs in the Boston area as the result of a wiretap investigation.

Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel Conley says the seizure announced Thursday included more than 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms) of fentanyl.Much like today, students gathered on the grass, studied in classrooms and rallied together when Trinity University was in its infancy, vintage black-and-white photos of the San Antonio campus show.

Those photos also show the university's buildings and it's those structures that might push the campus over the edge in being chosen as a National Historic District.Watch out, media. Photo: Screencap/The California Republican

Republican congressman Devin Nunes  of oversold-Nunes-memo fame  has his very own alternative news site, Politico noticed on Sunday. The California Republican is down at the moment, allegedly thanks to heavy traffic and an attack on our servers, but you can still access it via the Wayback Machine. The House Intelligence Committee Chairman called the site his online magazine on Sunday, but if youre hoping to find hot takes from Nunes like Goodbye to All That: Why I Un-recused Myself From the Russian Investigation, youll be disappointed. The site is better described as a conservative content farm, as it only publishes heavily aggregated news and commentary from other publications, with the resulting posts occasionally used as fodder for shares on Nuness mailed-in Facebook page.

Nuness site, which has a small note pointing out that it is paid for by the Devin Nunes Campaign Committee, has been infrequently publishing since mid-2017. Whoever edits it has passed along national and local stories from places like the National Review, the Federalist, Fresno Bee, and Los Angeles Times. The content includes perfunctory right-wing clickbait about national political news, stories about California news and politics, and even seven posts about the efforts of the Fresno State Bulldogs. Some representative headlines include:

 The Russians are everywhere  and nowhere

 CHA-CHING: Your Insurance Premiums Probably Paid for Anti-Trump Protests, Programs

 CA liberals love the decline in greenhouse gas, hate the reason why

 CNN busted for peddling fake news AGAIN!

In a Facebook post on Sunday afternoon, Nunes  who has frequently complained about negative media coverage  tried to spin the ridicule directed at the site as a call to arms:

Photo: Screencap/Devin Nuness Facebook Page

Nuness staff seems defiant about it too:

Asked for comment about The California Republican website, Anthony Ratekin, Nunes chief of staff, said in an email Saturday: Until Politico retracts its multitude of fake stories on Congressman Nunes, we will not go on the record.

But while Politicos David Siders frames the site as offering Nunes a way around the often unflattering coverage of his role in the Trump-Russia investigation, its not at all clear that anyone, including Nunes, has cared enough about the site for that to be true. Even with Nuness Facebook page promoting it, the site had less than 4,000 Facebook followers or likes as of Saturday, and it appears to have garnered no attention at all on Twitter. If Nunes has a national base, this site clearly hasnt reached them.

Furthermore, Nuness online magazine didnt do much of anything to take advantage of his moment in the misleading-memo-sun a week ago, or offer any real insight from the congressman or his inner circle when it mattered most. The last post on the site, January 30s Understanding the process behind #ReleaseTheMemo, is not some inside look at the rationale behind Nunes efforts to reveal shocking anti-Trump conspiracies, but three aggregated excerpts from a National Review column by Andrew C. McCarthy.

Nunes and his campaign may have intended big things for carepublican.com, but the result so far is as transparently inadequate as Nuness efforts to defend President Trump.The Texas Court of Appeals on Friday rejected a San Antonio man's unusual bid to overturn his latest DWI conviction.

In appealing his fourth DWI conviction, Ralph Alfred Friesenhahn claimed drunk driving laws discriminated against alcoholics.

Friesenhahn, 65, was convicted in 2016 by a Comal County judge after he caused his car to roll over in 2012 while his BAC was 0.29, more than three the legal limit of 0.08. He was sentenced to four years in prison.

Through his lawyer, Gina Jones, Friesenhahn argued the legal limit established by the law "violates equal protection because it unfairly discriminates against alcoholics," according to the court documents.

RELATED: 4 teens face murder charges in slaying over stolen backpack

He claims the law is discriminatory because "many of those folks who suffer from the disease of alcoholism are able to maintain normal function at 0.08 versus a person who does not."

"The time is right for the judicial branch of the government to refocus on these laws to find out if our citizens that suffer from this disease are being unfairly treated versus others members of the society," the appeal argues.

The argument is a self defeating one, the court ruled.

"In essence, (Friesenhahn) does not argue that members of his defined class of alcoholics are treated differently than other DWI defendants under the statues. Instead he argues that they should be treated differently," the judge wrote.

"In sum, because the 0.08 alcohol concentration definition of intoxicate applies to all DWI offenders, all similarly situation persons are treated alike under the DWI statutory scheme," the ruling goes on to say.

The judge quashed the appeal, saying the argument did not meet the burden to make the DWI law unconstitutional.

Fares Sabawi covers crime in San Antonio and Bexar County for mySA.com. Read more of his stories here. | fsabawi@mysa.comA 29-year-old man was arrested for sneaking into the room of a 15-year-old San Antonio girl he'd met at a pool to have sex with her, police said.

Mark Anthony Pettet was arrested over the weekend on suspicion of sexually assaulting a child.Twenty-Five years ago the media scene in San Antonio changed forever when the last issue of the San Antonio Light hit the streets Thursday, Jan. 28, 1993.

After more than a hundred years, and many decades of being part of a two-paper city, Hearst turned out The Light after purchasing the rival paper, the Rupert Murdoch owned San Antonio Express-News.

RELATED: 1993 - The year the Light went out

Hearst operations in San Antonio were transferred to the Express-News and some Light employees were hired onto the Express-News staff. So journalists who had just days before been heated competitors, were now forced to integrate and get along.

Twenty-five years later, more than a few of those Light/Express-News employees  once part of that rivalry and sometime testy integration  still bust their backs (but never deadline) to bring San Antonio its news.

Part of that mashing together of brands and news philosophies was a photo archive that had doubled in size.

READ ALSO: Photos show life in San Antonio 30 years ago in 1988

In looking at those archive photos we have discovered a visual history of San Antonio.

From early labor struggles of the 1930s in downtown and visits from Babe Ruth and presidents, to the very first animals at the San Antonio Zoo and San Antonio's first recorded big snowfall in 1949, you will be enthralled with these photos.

Stay turned onto mySA.com throughout the year as we search and bring you more photos, and memories, from the San Antonio Light archives.A San Antonio Parks and Recreation employee was rushed to an area hospital after having a pole lodged in his neck following a crash Sunday afternoon on the West Side, according to police.

San Antonio Police Sgt. Thomas Haymaker said the city employee was traveling west on the 700 block of Castroville Road near General McMullen Drive around 2:20 p.m. when he veered into the eastbound lane and then crashed into the fence of San Fernando Cemetery.Robert Lightfoot envisions a world 12 years from now where astronauts further study the Moon, scientists have determined if oxygen can be harvested from the Martian atmosphere, and samples have been collected from Mars for study.

All this and much more is possible if Congress approves President Donald Trump's $19.9 billion request for NASA's fiscal year 2019 budget, said Lightfoot, the space agency's acting administrator.

"We are once again on a path to return to the Moon with an eye toward Mars," Lightfoot said Monday.

"This time we are leveraging the multiple partners both here at home and internationally in developing a sustainable approach where the moon is simply one step on our truly ambitious long-term journey to reach out farther into the solar system to reap the economic, societal, and expanding knowledge benefits such an endeavor will bring," he said during a State of NASA presentation.

The $19.9 billion request  about a $370 million increase from the current budget year  would allocate $10.5 billion for human exploration. But that increase for exploration comes at some costs, Lightfoot said.

It would eliminate a number of science missions as well as end federal funding for the International Space Station after 2024, the year funding for the space station is already scheduled to stop. For fiscal year 2017, NASA's budget for the space station was $1.45 billion.

In addition, Lightfoot said, the agency's Office of Education  which receives $99.3 million in the current budget  would be completely eliminated under the plan. He did not elaborate on what exactly that would mean.

Allard Beutel, a NASA headquarters spokesman, said in a statement Monday that the agency still supports education, but that the fiscal environment is tight. That's why the agency will be creative about how to engage students if the budget proposal is approved, he added.

Through "mission directorates," Beutel said NASA will focus on:

 Creating unique opportunities for students and the public to contribute to NASA's work in exploration and discovery.

 Building a diverse future science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workforce by engaging students in authentic learning experiences with NASA's people, content and facilities.

 Strengthening public understanding by enabling powerful connections to NASA's mission and work.

Internships and fellowships maintained outside the office would continue, he added.

The James Webb Space Telescope, the $8.8 billion successor to Hubble, would remain on track to launch next year, according to budget documents, but its successor, the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope (WFIRST), would be canceled "due to its significant cost and higher priorities within NASA," according to a budget document.

WFIRST was being built to study dark energy, exoplanets and infrared astrophysics, and the National Academy of Sciences recommended that it follow Webb, according to NASA.

But the cost of the project, set to be launched in the mid-2020s, has ballooned to $3.6 billion, well above initial projections, according to a 2017 Science Magazine article.

Several Earth science missions also would be canceled. Among them: a program that answers questions about the consequences of climate change on oceans, an observatory on the space station that studies the Earth's atmospheric carbon cycle, and an instrument that measures Earth's reflected sunlight and emitted thermal radiation.

"We had to make hard decisions, but we're setting the stage of an exciting decade in the 2020s," Lightfoot said during a presentation from NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama that was livestreamed to NASA facilities across the country, including Johnson Space Center in Houston.

The Trump administration would transition the activities on the International Space Station to commercial entities, ending federal government support in 2025.

But the budget also proposes $150 million to help industry create space habitats that could be used in place of the station.

"It proposes to stimulate the commercial opportunities by providing an off-ramp for government-led opportunities," Lightfoot said. "Hopefully we'll begin relying on our commercial partners."

Under the budget proposal, the first unmanned flight of the Space Launch System rocket and the Orion spacecraft (both built to transport astronauts to deep space) would be 2022, followed by Americans around the moon in 2023.

"This will be the first human mission to the moon since Apollo 17 in 1972," said NASA's acting Chief Financial Officer Andrew Hunter.

In his address, Lightfoot also said the proposal would allow the agency to begin working on the foundation of a Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway, to "give us a strategic presence in the lunar vicinity that will drive our activity with commercial and international partners and help us further explore the moon and its resources and translate that experience toward human missions to Mars."

The budget still must be approved by Congress.

Alex Stuckey covers NASA and the environment for the Houston Chronicle. You can reach her at alex.stuckey@chron.com or Twitter.com/alexdstuckey.Some fear that a Democratic Party thats not at the front ranks of the Resistance will undermine its support in November. Photo: Konstantin Sergeyev

There are two things in the news recently that are likely bugging Democratic activists. For one thing, Democrats in Congress have seemed less than brilliant in dealing with the conflicts underlying the spending and immigration negotiations and last months government shutdown. For another, the partys polling numbers  particularly as reflected in the loss of a big lead in the congressional generic ballot have been drifting downward, making a November Democratic wave election less of a certainty than it seemed at the end of 2017.

Are the two phenomena actually related? Thats the argument made by Will Stancil in The Atlantic: Democrats have been losing ground in public opinion as theyve abandoned the earlier strategy of total opposition to Trump. Thats because by treating Trump as a legitimate president, theyve helped shore up his viability and threatened to demoralize the resistance whose mobilization will be the key to Democratic victories in 2018 and 2020.

Until now, Democrats have capably exploited this political opportunity. They have, in effect, employed the same obstructionist tactics that were utilized by Republicans against President Obama. By declaring the president anathema, Democrats electrified their party and mobilized everyone who is frightened of him. This is a particularly canny tactic because, as was demonstrated in the Obama era, even voters frustrated with gridlock and chaos mostly blame the president and his party.

But now, says Stancil, theres a creeping acquiescence toward Trump among Democrats as reflected in the budget deal and the immigration negotiations.

[T]oday, in the highest circles of Democratic party politics, resistance is waning. This is normal enough, many key Democrats seem to be saying. When Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote in advance of Trumps State of the Union several weeks ago, he focused on finding ways to work with the president, such as infrastructure.

Bipartisan rhetoric is nothing new from politicians, but Democrats appear to be slipping towards making substantive policy concessions to Trump. Particularly in the Senate, Democrats have, bit by bit, begun acceding to Trumpian demands.

Its an interesting argument, particularly since nothing would be easier for Democrats than to ignore policy issues, reject every opportunity for negotiations, stick a big hatpin through their frontal lobes, and just howl at the moon until Congress is theirs and Trump is gone.

But there are some problems with it. For one thing, its not all that clear Democrats could have hung onto a strategy of total resistance in early 2018. The federal government had to be funded in order to operate. There is no way to pass an appropriations bill without Democratic votes in the Senate. Yes, you can argue that Democrats should have struck a better bargain with Republicans to reopen the government after it shut down. But it seems to be the very act of bargaining with Trump and his allies to which Stancil objects. Resign or well never let the government function is not a winning message even for a party whose core followers might initially cheer it.

For another thing, projecting oneself as the proud member of the uncompromising anti-Trump resistance just isnt an option for members of Congress from areas that were and remain pro-Trump enclaves. Yes, senators like Joe Manchin, Heidi Heitkamp, Jon Tester, Joe Donnelly, and Claire McCaskill need an energized anti-Trump base to turn out for them. But its not going to be enough. And exhibiting a frustrated willingness to work across party lines  which is really what Senate Democrats have mostly been doing, along with trying to form a coalition with those Senate Republicans who are fighting Trump on immigration  is going to be more effective than heading to the barricades.

Its also less than clear that the slightly more conciliatory tone of congressional Democrats has had much of anything to do with flagging poll numbers. Senate Democrats called off the government shutdown on January 22. By then theyd already lost a large chunk of their congressional generic ballot lead, which (according to the RealClearPolitics averages) peaked at 13 percent just before Christmas and had dropped below 8 percent by January 22. What else might have been going on? Well, a lot of things: more positive attitudes about the GOP tax bill (which Democrats never stopped attacking); more economic optimism; and a stretch of time when President Trump didnt dominate the news with some fresh hellish screwup.

Stancil is right that Democratic turnout needs an energized base that never loses its focus on reducing Trumps power. But much as base turnout is essential in midterm elections, it doesnt eliminate the need for at least some persuasion, and maybe more than some in very hostile territory. So its never going to be as easy or as promising as it sounds to turn the Democratic Party into a pure and sweet instrument of total opposition. That is particularly true since Democrats do not share the stridently oppositional psychology of a Republican Party whose base hates government, hates the 21st century, and hates the very idea of progress as its come to be defined in this country.

A lot of these questions may work themselves out as 2018 proceeds. It may well be that no matter what Senate Democrats do to normalize Trump and reduce the seething rage of activists toward the 45th president, said president  who has his own base mobilization needs  will keep the resistance revved up at the failsafe point by his outlandish behavior. He is, after all, the reason for the resistance, which would exist and thrive with or without the active help of the Democratic Party. I personally see no reason to believe that Democrats or those elements of the news media or civil society who fear Trumps excesses have gone soft on him.

But those Democrats who are in public office have to pick and choose moments of loud opposition, and sometimes even have to sound conciliatory. Yes, if anyone voting in November doubts Democrats are the anti-Trump party, thats a problem. But snarling and snapping every minute until then is probably not necessary to maintain confidence in the Donkeys bite.MDC president Morgan Tsvangirais health status should not be shrouded in secrecy nor should it be a private matter for his family as he is a national figure with millions of people looking up to him, social and political commentators contend.

They believe that while Tsvangirai did the honourable thing to disclose his ailment, the nation and indeed his supporters need constant updates on his condition.

The Daily News on Sunday caught up with a number of analysts who gave their views.

Political analyst MacDonald Lewanika said it is true that Tsvangirai has transcended family monopoly, and his life and health is a matter of public interest.

For some, this may be to plan, but for most, indeed it is to know how a leading national figure, an inspiration to many, and respected political foe is faring.

It is unfair for the family and whoever is in the know in the party to keep the public in the dark for whatever reasons  Tsvangirai deserves the good wishes of those who love him and the prayers of those who wish him well.

But without knowing how do people pray, how and what do they hope for, and how do they stand in solidarity with him?

Lewanika said as for the institutions he leads, lack of information places them into gridlock and the inevitable factional battles that we have been seeing raging.

It is in the public, and national interest for the truth about Tsvangirais health to be known, and for the nation to wish him well and pray for his recovery, while the institutions and people he leads prepare for the next elections knowing that he may be indisposed to lead the charge, not out of his unwillingness but out of being encumbered by these health challenges, added Lewanika.

Social commentator Rashweat Mukundu said health matters of public or national figures are always a challenge in balancing the publics right to know and the interest the lives of such people generate and the right to privacy.

In the case of Tsvangirai, I think it is all these issues as well as the political significance of his health and implications to the MDC and the entire electoral politics in Zimbabwe that are weighing heavily on his family and inner political circle.

These are issues that Tsvangirais family is battling with and I would cautiously respect both him and the familys right to privacy while urging a more proactive release of information that helps both his party and also keeps the nation informed, said Mukundu.

Mukundu added that more critically it is in the interest of the MDC that the issue of succession be discussed.

Succession is not an issue of undermining Tsvangirai but enabling the MDC to look into the future on the basis of a collective political project and not an individual.

It is only fair for the MDC that Tsvangirai gives a clear indication of his prospects of returning to lead the party and those calling for a leadership transition may as well be looking at the implications of his long absence, the ensuing factional fights and chaos and the impeding elections.

Tsvangirais legacy is imprinted in our national political memory and it may serve the MDC well that they look into the future, said Mukundu.

Playwright Cont Mhlanga does not put any blame to Tsvangirais family or relatives.

Chances are that they are not sure how to manage this situation given the precedence set out by government and Zanu PF in handling former president Robert Mugabes illnesses and age that led to his highly embarrassing dozing while at public platforms when he was still leader of his party and government.

I would put the blame on the door step of our general membership of our political parties who ignore putting in place guide lines of how to handle and manage such situations should they arise, said Mhlanga.

Mhlanga added that political party membership at the lower ranks easily and willingly manipulated by party members at the higher ranks.

This promotes a situation where party members do not hold each other accountable to public service delivery and accurate information of public interest.

Zimbabwes political parties and interparty political culture needs reinventing. It has learnt a lot of wrong and bad political practices since independence in 1980.

Mhlanga said Tsvangirais family members did not appoint him to be a national leader who commands public interest and following.

To them he is just a parent in a private family and home and they have all the right to keep his illness private. It is Tsvangirais party membership guided by their instruments who shoulder the responsibility of keeping the nation accurately informed.

Political analyst Vivid Gwede said Tsvangirai is free to treat his health as a private matter, given that he currently holds no official government office.

However, it was a great step and mark of leadership when he publicly revealed his health status. So, naturally, there are expectations that there should be further updates. The length of his medical vacation causes anxiety, especially with crucial elections looming.

But if truth be told, the issue of the opposition candidacy needs to be resolved sooner rather than later, while MDC leader is recuperating, said Gwede.

Social commentator Rejoice Ngwenya believes Tsvangirai did better than most African leaders to disclose his ailment.

Now, as a national leader faced with national elections, his family, his party and himself, owe us a responsibility.

The nation needs to know  as a matter of urgency  whether or not he can stand the rigours of not just the election 2018 campaigns but also subsequent leadership.

Its not asking for too much. MDC cannot use Tsvangrais health as a pawn of leadership contests. It is inhumane, naive and dangerous for the credibility of the MDC Alliance.

Political analyst Maxwell Saungweme said: As a family they have a right to privacy. But Tsvangirai has followers who deserve to know whats happening with him. They should allow the public to know how their president is faring. They are missing the point.

Crisis Coalition spokesperson Tabani Moyo said: The challenges in Zimbabwean politics is that of managing succession! In Zanu PF it took a military coup and in MDC is taking fears for the worst to be handled.

Whatever the situation might be, Zimbabwean opposition is a big let-down, it must be closer to the ideas of a model progressive government in-waiting. In addition, we are on the eve of an election and the opposition is in a tailspin as to who should succeed Tsvangirai.

As seen in the recent developments, the party is in full blown succession crisis and its a reflection of power succession planning!

 DailyNews

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Related Zimbabwe Latest NewsAs weve said repeatedly, one of the most troubling things about CalPERS is its institutionalized culture of lying, not just by implication or omission but too often overtly.

Todays example is the unclear and questionable role that top Silicon Valley law firm and power broker Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati (Wilson Sonsini) is playing in CalPERS scheme to outsource private equity. Weve written at length as to how moving in this direction is the polar opposite to what other major investors are doing, which it to bring more PE activities in house to cut out costly middlemen. CalPERS is instead proposing to add another layer of fees, which will hurt beneficiaries by reducing performance. We discuss in a companion post today how CalPERS is almost certain to suffer in an even bigger way, since its returns are likely to suffer for other reasons, such as some general partners being unwilling to work with a CalPERS outsourcer like BlackRock.

We arent the only party that smells the stench of corruption. One long-standing CalPERS insider said:

In all my years of working with the system, Ive never seen anything that makes my hair stand up on the back of my neck like this. Even though I cant prove it, my gut says someone will go to jail if this gets done. And my gut has a good track record.

CalPERS first presented the idea of new private equity business models at a board offsite last July. At events like this, such as CalPERS 2015 private equity workshop, while the panelists are understood to be talking their own book in a general way, they are presented to the board and public as independent.

That was hardly the case for two of the five show horses, Mark Wiseman of BlackRock and Larry Sonsini of Wilson Sonsini. A month and a half after the board presentation, Bloomberg reported that BlackRock was in negotiations with CalPERS over outsourcing private equity. That was at odds with what the board had been told not just implicitly, that the panelists were there for informational purposes, and not as part of a sales process, but explicitly, since the board had been told the next step would be that theyd be briefed again in about six months. For the talks to be far along enough for Bloomberg to have gotten whiff of them means that they had been underway for some time.

Wilson Sonsini has become even more deeply involved. The firm has been retained by CalPERS and met with the board in closed session in November and is on the agenda for this weeks Investment Committee closed session.

There are several reasons this development is troubling, as well discuss below.

1. Wilson Sonsini has glaring commercial conflicts of interest 2. Wilson Sonsini cant be doing legal work at this juncture, since there is no contract to negotiate, but instead must be acting as a business advisor 3. Wilson Sonsini is unlikely to be the best advisor for whatever it us up to nowat least as far as CalPERS beneficiaries are concerned 4. Wilson Sonsini appears to be responsible for CalPERS new-found, misguided enthusiasm for venture capital

Wilson Sonsinis Conflicts of Interest

One of the problems with American legal and commercial norms is the way that various types of potential or actual self-serving behavior have been normalized. For instance, by any common-sense standard, the Washington DC revolving door, in which regulators then go to highly paid jobs in the industry they just supervised, is an invitation to have businesses reward overseers who played nicely with them. If you have any doubt that this happens, just look at how few boards the only mildly tough former SEC Chairman Arthur Levitt was invited to sit on after he left the agency. But under the law, this sort of soft corruption is perfectly OK. Only explicit quid pro quos are deemed to be against the law.

Similarly, law firms define conflicts of interest very narrowly, as in whether a current (or prospective) client has an adverse interest relative to another client. For instance, CalPERS fiduciary counsel, Ashley Dunning, is representing Marin County Employees Retirement Association, defending an appeals court decision before the California Supreme Court that weakens the so-called California Rule. The California Rule prevents employers from reducing pensions unless they provide an equivalent economic benefit. That representation has been construed not to represent a conflict of interest with Dunning serving as CalPERS fiduciary counsel, even though CalPERS as an institution supports the California Rule.

Wilson Sonsini positions itself as representing technology companies, typically the cream of the Silicon Valley crop. Though it may technically have its bills paid by those businesses, its real client is often the money behind them, which means the venture capital or sometimes private equity firm funding the company. Let us put it another way: if a venture-or-PE-backed company were to try to hire a law firm over the desires of the VC/PE firm, that plan would not go very far.

Wilson Sonsini is thus in the regular business of effectively representing general partners with which CalPERS does business as well as ones that would like to receive funding from CalPERS. The ten examples below are only a small subset of firms represented by Wilson Sonsini on matters dating from January 1, 20131 where CalPERS also has a relationship with the VC or private equity firm backing the business:

Not only is Wilson Sonsini often representing general partners at a step removed, it is also important to understand that what Wilson Sonsini will generate representing a single portfolio company on an IPO or a sale is a big multiple of what it will make working for CalPERS.

One of the last things the private equity and venture capital communities want to see is more big investors making private company investments on their own, cutting out these high-fee services. Family offices, like the Basses and Och-Ziff, have been at this for decades. Sovereign wealth funds are becoming more and more active direct investors. This is a trend that private equity firms would like to see stopped in its tracks.

Remember how, in 2014, CalPERS exiting hedge funds was front page news? It helped lower the bar to other investors, particularly public pension funds, cutting their exposures, which caught hold in a big way in early 2016. If CalPERS were to take analogous steps in private equity, by committing to do more in house, as weve argued it should for years, it would be a similar seismic event.

Wilson Sonsini Cant Be Doing Legal Work Right Now

The reason CalPERS staff was able to hire Wilson Sonsini without going through a request for proposal process is that California agencies dont have to go that route when hiring attorneys. Indeed, CalPERS staff appeared to set up the rationale for bringing Wilson Sonsini in at the July offsite, when Chief Investment Officer Ted Eliopoulos said that the next step would be to present the board with possible legal structures. A former CalPERS board member said that that did not happen when Wilson Sonsini participated in a closed session meeting in November.

Moreover, it is just about certain that Wilson Sonsini isnt doing any legal work now. If you read the mislabeled Request for Information documents that CalPERS published in December, which weve embedded at the end of this post, CalPERS makes clear that the terms setting to be done is of the tell us how far to bend over variety, as in will be proposed by the other side. Moreover, the documents are lacking in the spit and polish youd expect them to have if Wilson Sonsini provided meaningful input.

In other words, any legal work, like negotiation support and review of contract language, has yet to start.

Wilson Sonsini Is Unlikely to be Working in the Best Interest of CalPERS Beneficiaries

If CalPERS wanted to get independent advice on its private equity strategy, it had plenty of options, including boutique consulting firms and academics.

In light of what Larry Sonsini said at the July offsite, it appears to hired to act as a big name validator of what staff has in mind. While consultants are often criticized for doing just that, it is particularly troubling to have a firm tasked to that role that does not have an economic incentive to do a good job for that client, whether narrowly or broadly defined. And Wilson Sonsisi cant claim to have any insight into CalPERS investments, particularly in light of CalPERS underfunding.

Wilson Sonsini Appears to Be Influencing CalPERS Already, and Not in a Good Way

Recall our post earlier this month, CalPERS Chief Investment Office Ted Eliopoulos Now Touting Venture Capital Even Though It Cant Improve Returns. We didnt realize then that CalPERS had engaged Wilson Sonsini. The fact that Eliopoulos led a panel of three venture capitalists, nominally on innovation, when Eliopoulos was even more fawning than usual and all the guests did was tell war stories, now makes more sense.

Mind you, this is a ludicrous idea. Even competent large public pension funds like CalSTRS whose Chief Investment Officer Chris Ailman has admitted to venture capital lust, do not invest in venture capital because it does not make any sense for a fund that large. Even if they could win at the fools errand of trying to be the Warren Buffett of VC investing and out-do their competitors at fund selection, they cant put enough money to work in venture capital to have a meaningful impact on returns.

Even worse, as we wrote at some length in the post, the strategy that Eliopoulos proposed for venture capital was just about the worst you could devise. Eliopoulos pumped for making late-stage venture investments. With unicorns engaging in what amounts to large-scale valuation fraud, combined with the fact that the funding need right now, and therefore likely much better opportunity is with early state companies, this looks like CalPERS jumping on a fad that is way past its sell-by date.

Finally, while correlation is not causation, Eliopoulos tango with BlackRock and Wilson Sonsini has taken place in tandem with particularly visible displays of staff riding roughshod over CalPERS board, including:

The staff embarrassing the board by the board repeatedly finding out about major initiatives in the press, such as CalPERS having started negotiating private equity outsourcing with BlackRock in early September, and Eliopoulos announcing his venture capital schemes to the press without having clued in the board The bait and switch of the board being told in July staff was moving deliberately and the next step would be a briefing, when instead the staff has gone out to start a contracting process without getting board approval

It is really ugly to see CalPERS board being muscled in such an obvious way to make a decision is contrary to beneficiaries interest by worsening CalPERS returns (see our companion post as to why). There has to be another agenda at work.

___

1 From SEC filings of public offerings where Wilson Sonsini represented the company owned by funds managed by the general partners listed.By Don Quijones, of Spain, UK, and Mexico, and an editor at Wolf Street. Originally published at Wolf Street

A lot of people have lost a lot of money in the recent financial market convulsions, but theres still plenty of money to be made by betting against the companies, as the worlds largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates, showed this week. It bet heavily against four of Spains biggest corporate hitters. The fund took up short positions worth 1.2 billion, or 0.5% of total shares at Banco Santander, BBVA, Telefonica and Iberdrola.

The gamble has already reaped dividends. Shares of Iberdrola, Spains biggest utilities company, Telefonica, Spains struggling telecoms giant, and Santander, Spains biggest bank ended the week around 5% lower, while BBVA tumbled 4%. Bridgewater placed its best against the two large Spanish banks last week, just as they presented annual results that largely disappointed the market. Since then, both banks have lost close to 10% of their market cap.

These short bets are part of the firms $13.1 billion in shorts against 44 European companies, according to EU regulatory filings, reported by Bloomberg. Among the notable short positions, in addition to the Spanish banks, are Total, Airbus, BNP Paribas, ING, Intesa Sanpaolo, Eni, Sanofi, and Axa.

At the beginning of the week, Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, made light of the recent rout in global stock markets saying in a blog post on LinkedIn that this is classic late-cycle behavior, adding: These big declines are just minor corrections in the scope of things . . . There is a lot of cash on the side to buy on the break, and what comes next will be most important.

Investors will nonetheless be wondering why the worlds biggest hedge fund is shorting Spains two biggest banks, whose shares had been on an 18-month roll. Until last week that is. As we warned in December, 2018 could prove to be a stressful year for Spanish banks, for three reasons:

Painful new rules. The introduction in January of a new accounting rule, known as IFRS 9, will force banks in Europe to provision for souring loans much sooner than at present. One direct result will be that banks will have to hold more capital on their books, and that will have a detrimental impact on their profits. BBVA calculated that as a result Spanish banks will have to increase their provisions by 21%  around 5.2 billion  to comply with the new requirements. This amount may be manageable for the industry as a whole, though some lenders, in particular the smaller banks, will suffer more stress than others.

Potential indigestion from Popular take-over. The decline and fall last year of Spains sixth biggest bank, Banco Popular, served as a reminder (a painful one for the banks 300,000 shareholders) that Spains banking system is far from fixed, despite the tens of billions of euros thrown at it. Now, the attention shifts to just how well Santander will be able to digest the collapsed bank it bought for 1

Exposure to high-risk markets. As the IMF warned in a report last year, BBVAs largest international exposures by financial assets are concentrated in the UK, the US, Brazil, Mexico, Turkey and Chile. At least four of those six markets  Brazil, Mexico, Turkey and the UK  are likely to face headwinds in 2018. In the US, Santanders subsidiary, Santander Consumer USA, is dangerously exposed to the subprime auto-loan sector, which is already taking a toll on global profits. So great is both banks exposure to Latin Americas two largest economies  Mexico (which accounted for 40% of BBVAs global profits) and Brazil (which provides 26% of Santanders)  that if things deteriorate in either or both of these key emerging markets, the spillover effects will be felt almost immediately in Spains banking system.

There could also be another reason for Bridgewaters bet: the continued systemic weakness of the Eurozones periphery.

After all, Spain is not the only Eurozone economy that Dalio has massively shorted. In the last three months his fund has tripled its short bets against Italy, the Eurozones third largest economy and arguably weakest link, to 2.45 billion, up from 900 million in October. A total of 18 firms have been targeted including Italys main utility, Enel, the national oil and gas company Eni and the pan-European insurer Generali. Like Telefonica and Iberdrola, Enel and Eni are among the largest beneficiaries of the ECBs massive corporate bond purchase program which could come to an end as early as September this year. The firms funding costs could rise sharply thereafter.

Most of Dalios short bets in Italy are targeting its still fragile financial sector. His biggest short is against Italys second largest bank by assets, Intesa Sanpaolo, which is widely viewed as Italys most stable bank. In fact, it was the only bank in the country that was big enough and in sound enough health to absorb the two ailing mid-size Veneto based banks Banca Popolare di Vicenza and Veneto Banca in June 2017.

The bank will win the battle, CEO Carlo Messina confidently predicted in a Bloomberg Television interview on Thursday. The bank has seen its shares slump 4% over the last three days but they are still 45% higher than they were this time last year.

When [Dalio and I] had a conversation in October, he was short Intesa Sanpaolo and Italy, Messina, who leads Italys biggest bank by market value, said in the interview. I told him he could lose money on our position and in the end I think he lost money. Again, increasing the position, I think hes losing money again.

Whoever wins this financial duel, the stakes are high. Even for a firm the size of Bridgewater Associates, with an estimated 122 billion of assets under management, short positions of 13 billion concentrated in the Eurozone represent a lot of risk. For the Eurozone, the financial stability of its third and fourth largest economies, both of which are still very fragile, well, thats priceless.

Not another Carillion, said the UK government to soothe frazzled nerves, as an entire industry is teetering. Read Crash of Outsourcing Giant with 70,000 Employees Globally Sparks New PanicAs readers probably know, the giant California public pension fund CalPERS is underfunded in a serious way as a result of taking a contribution holiday in the dot-con era when it looked like it had too much cash on hand, and then taking a big hit in the crisis. CalPERS has embarked on trying to implement a major change which is clearly counterproductive: that of handing off private equity investing to costly middlemen, incurring an additional layer of unnecessary fees. Even worse, as well describe below, CalPERS has reasons to believe that this scheme cannot improve performance enough to make up for the fees.

Let us underscore the significance of this information: CalPERS clearly recognizes that the odds favor that outsourcing will be a lose/lose proposition. CalPERS will lose on fees and will more importantly is likely to lose on returns too. This means its staff, and if it goes along, its board, is knowingly violating its fiduciary duty to beneficiaries.

As we have chronicled for several years, CalPERS has been pinning undue hopes on private equity as the salvation for its underfunding problem. But private equity has come under deserved criticism for not generating enough in returns to compensate for its outsized risks, a cardinal sin in investing-land, along with the discovery of widespread abuses by general partners that include what amounts to embezzlement.

CalPERS has also made a number of gaffes with respect to its private equity program, such as falsely saying it could not track carry fees (it was forced into recanting and getting the information) and acting as if it did not understand how a fundamental element of private equity investment, management fee offsets, operates.

Rather than upping its private equity game as other investors have, by doing more investing directly so as to save staggering private equity fees and costs estimated at 7% per year, CalPERS instead appears to be letting PR considerations and potentially even worse motives trump its paramount responsibility: managing its money for the good of beneficiaries and California taxpayers, who ultimately backstop the giant fund.

Below well describe how CalPERS already has strong evidence that its outsourcing scheme, which amount to hiring a fund of funds manager, is likely to produce the worst of all worlds: inferior performance and higher fees, on the order of $50 million a year plus a profit share.

Fund of Fund Structures Now Deliver the Worst Results of All of CalPERS Investment Approaches

The slide below, prepared by CalPERS private equity consultant Meketa, and being presented at todays Investment Committee meeting, speaks for itself:

In every period measured, fund of funds dragged CalPERS private equity results down. In all time frames save one, they were the worst way to go. The second worst performer was customized investment accounts. Even if CalPERS tries arguing that what it is planning to do with BlackRock or whoever it winds up choosing wont be exactly like a fund of funds, the other possible precedent hasnt done well for CalPERS beneficiaries either.1

And by contrast, what approach did the best? By far, co-investments and direct investments, the approach that other large institutional investors are pursing more and more aggressively and that weve advocated as the most promising strategy for CalPERS in private equity.

In other words, rather than build on success and strengthen its capabilities, CalPERS is planning to double down on failure as well as weaken itself as an institution.

Some General Partners Have Told CalPERS They Wont Play Ball With a CalPERS Outsourcer

A February 2 article by Sam Sutton at PE Hub, CalPERS board has `unanswered questions about hiring of outside partner, contained including this key bit of information:

According to former board member JJ Jelincic, whose eight-year tenure on the board ended earlier this year, CalPERS CEO Marcie Frost told him that some PE firms intimated they wouldnt welcome new commitments if the retirement system were directing them from a third party like BlackRock.

This has always been a real risk. Wed discussed that general partners like KKR and Blackstone might not allow a BlackRock venture to invest in their funds. Its one thing if BlackRock had limited ambitions for its private equity efforts and wasnt planning on going beyond offering funds of funds. But BlackRock has made clear that gearing up in private equity funds is a top strategic priority. Why should other big private equity players help a competitor by letting it see in considerable depth how they do business?

And that concern goes double for two more of the six names that CalPERS is considering for the outsourcing role, AlpInvest Partners, which is a subsidiary of Carlyle, and Goldman Sachs.

Having said that, not every general partner will necessarily regard a BlackRock or a Goldman as a threat. The ones most likely to take umbrage are the mega-players that are diversified fund managers, such as Apollo, Blackstone, and KKR. But they also collectively represent a meaningful chuck of total private equity investment opportunities.

There is no way that restricting CalPERS investment universe could be presented as being a plus for returns. The odds favor it hurting CalPERS beneficiaries. Indeed, even though Ted Eliopoulos has yet to offer a rationale for why going to an outsourcer would deliver better returns for CalPERS, the closest he has come has been his insinuation that the bad press that CalPERS is getting in private equity has somehow led the fund to be missing private equity opportunities. Industry experts like North Carolinas former Chief Investment Officer Andrew Silton have rejected that notion out of hand.

But if even Eliopoulos evidence-free efforts to blame CalPERS less than stellar private equity performance on media meanies scaring big tough money-minded general partners away had any truth, CalPERS needs to weigh that against actual saber-rattling by general partners.2 If CalPERS is going to have a smaller investible universe as a result of investing through BlackRock, it cant possibly help returns.

Now one might argue that the threats by the KKRs of this world are mere posturing, and might even have been a gambit to get included on the list of fund of fund manager candidates. But unlike the almost-entirely-empty threats of general partners to exclude investors that were too insistent on transparency, giving strategic assistance to direct competitors would seem to be a bigger business risk than having your performance made public. So at a bare minimum, if CalPERS is going to keep pursuing this bone-headed idea, it needs to treat the general partner threats as a major due diligence item.

BlackRock and Other Private Equity Fund Managers Will Want to Put CalPERS in Their Own Funds

Anyone who has spent any time in investment management knows that discretionary accounts are regularly turned into stuffees. The classic example is brokerage firms pressuring salesmen to put their clients into in-house mutual funds even when they are dogs (in addition to constant nagging and overt threats, the brokerage firms would give bonus sales credits to make up for brokers burning their meal tickets).

Recall that the misleadingly-named request for information for the private equity outsourcing scheme states clearly that the partner will have investment discretion.

With BlackRock, a relative newbie in private equity, the incentive to put CalPERS money in BlackRock funds that BlackRock would pass on if they were run by anyone else, will be strong. BlackRock is a public company. Showing growth in private equity assets under management and revenues will be core to its growth story. Remember the lengths Wells Fargo went to to generate evidence to back its pitch to the analyst community?

Its not hard to anticipate and rebut CalPERS response. CalPERS staff, or at worst, its outside legal counsel, is sure to notice if an outsourcer who also had its own private equity funds drafted the agreement in a way that allowed the outsourcer to put CalPERS monies in its own fund. But when CalPERS protests, the outsourcer is likely to respond along the lines of: Well set up a special review any time we want to do that and allow you to veto it.

The problem is that CalPERS, by having hollowed out its private equity staff, will have even less confidence and skills than it has now to say no. Moreover, even in its better days, CalPERS track record of saying no to private equity firms hawking supposedly great deals is less than stellar. Recall that we wrote at some lengths about how CalPERS took a well over $100 million bath on a $275 million stake in the Silver Lake entity that manages its funds (what youd colloquially call the general partner). How could a deal like that have come a cropper?

CalPERS was persuaded by Silver Lake to agree something no prudent equity investor should ever accept: not having an anti-dilution provision. CalPERS was apparently given the trust me pitch and capitulated. Given how obsequious Chief Investment Officer Ted Eliopoulos is towards private equity firm principals, its hard to imagine him ever standing up to them.

Needless to say, the more one looks at the CalPERS private equity outsourcing scheme, the more rancid it appears. The board should save CalPERS further embarrassment and put this terrible idea down.

______

1 Some defenders of fund of funds may try arguing that the reason for CalPERS abjectly poor performance in fund of funds is that CalPERS went into them for political reasons, such as to make investments in California. The wee problem with that argument is that CalPERS has yet to give anything that even dimly resembles an investment or economic argument in favor of its outsourcing scheme. The only conclusion we have been able to reach is that its motives are political: that it has not been able to manage the extra scrutiny its private equity investments receive, and that hiring an outsourcer is to reduce transparency. On top of that, many of its past fund of funds did not pay extra fees, so the underperformance here cant be attributed to higher investment costs.

2 In subsequent conversation with Jelnicic about his remarks to PE Hub, CalPERS did not dispute the accuracy of what Jelincic said.A former Chicago White Sox pitcher was arrested with at least 20 kilograms of heroin or cocaine, authorities said.

Esteban Loaiza, 46, was taken into custody Friday, according to online records from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.

He was charged with three felonies: possession or purchase of a controlled substance with the intent to sell, transportation/sale of narcotics or a controlled substance, and possession of more than 20 kgs of heroin or cocaine, according to the sheriff's department. [[473712823, C]]

Loaiza was ordered held on $200,000 bail and remained in South Bay Detention Facility in Chula Vista Monday, authorities said. He was next scheduled to appear in court Wednesday afternoon.

The former All-Star spent 14 years in the league, pitching for the White Sox from 2003 to 2004, and again briefly in 2008. In 2003, he led the American League in strikeouts and finished second in voting for the Cy Young Award. [[473754053, C]]

Loaiza attended SoxFest in Chicago just over two weeks before his arrest, posting multiple photos on social media signing autographs and posing with fans. [[473810283, C]]

A spokesman for the White Sox did not immediately respond to request for comment. Information about an attorney for Loaiza was not available.Letters written by the patient at the center of an abuse investigation at Whiting Forensic Division show the alleged abuse may have gone on for more than a decade.

A staff member gave the letters to the NBC Connecticut Troubleshooters, letters in which the patient wrote to doctors and others at Whiting Forensic complaining of abuse. People close to the patient confirm the letters are in his handwriting and one of those letters dates back to 2006.

The state's investigation of alleged abuse at Whiting, Connecticut's maximum security mental hospital, began after a surveillance video from the patient's room was brought to the attention of management in early 2017.

The letters given to the NBC Connecticut Troubleshooters show the patient had complained about his treatment more than a decade earlier than that.

In a letter dated May 19, 2008, the patient wrote that a staff member "is trying to kill me."

The patient wrote another letter, dated November 12, 2006, in which he said someone broke his leg and that a different staff member "threatened to kill me and beat me up."

There are two co-conservators for the 59-year-old patient, both appointed to oversee his care. The patient's brother, Al Shehadi is one of the co-conservators and the other is Karen Kangas, a former employee at Whiting Forensic.

Kangas told the NBC Connecticut Troubleshooters that she read other letters in the patient's file, one which said "I'm so tired of being abused," according to Kangas.

The patient has been at Whiting since 1995 after being found not guilty by reason of insanity in the death of his father.

According to Kangas, the patient is one of Whiting's most difficult patients. Kangas said he can be physically combative, verbally abusive and prone to long stretches of sleeplessness, but stressed there is no excuse for how he was allegedly treated.

Since the alleged abuse first came to light, 37 staff members at Whiting have been put on administrative leave. Of those staff members, 23 are no longer working at Whiting. Thirteen were terminated, six resigned and four retired.

Ten of them were arrested and their cases are still pending.

Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) oversees Whiting Forensic. DMHAS Commissioner Miriam Delphin-Rittmon said she cannot comment on the letters because the criminal investigation is ongoing and her agency is conducting an internal investigation as well.Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price is expected to be the only elected representative from Texas to meet with President Donald Trump on Monday following the release of the Presidents long-awaited infrastructure plan.

NBC News reported that the administration is expected to present a plan that puts $200 billion in new federal funds into the effort to rebuild the nations highways, bridges and other infrastructure, according to a senior administration official, who briefed reporters over the weekend on condition of anonymity: $100 billion on "incentives" to match state, local, and private investment spending on infrastructure projects and $20 billion for expanding federal loan programs that focus on various kinds of infrastructure (rail, water, transportation).

Mayor Price was invited by the White House to attend the event.

"High-growth cities need a lot of infrastructure work, Price said. And if we are there at the table we will have a better chance to present ourselves, and for them to understand our needs.

Among the needs that have drawn a lot of attention in recent weeks is the effort to fund expansion of a six-mile stretch of Interstate 35W in far north Fort Worth.

A section of the North Tarrant Express Project, between US 287 on the south and Eagle Parkway on the north, is currently in development limbo since the Texas Transportation Commission declined to fund the project at its most recent meeting last month.

A portion of the planned expansion includes the addition of four managed toll lanes. The toll lanes were approved as part of the initial plan for development back in 2009.

The business community, led by the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, has pushed a letter-writing campaign meant to urge Governor Greg Abbott and other state leaders to change their decision and fund the expansion of I-35W. As of late last week, more than 700 people have already followed through and written state lawmakers.

The area in question, near Alliance Airport, has long been the fastest-growing area in what is the second fastest-growing city in the United States. And new numbers from the City of Fort Worth show that the boom in growth is not expected to slow down.

As of 2017 there are an estimated 76,823 individual homes in the area of Fort Worth immediately adjoining I-35W that has been denied future funding, according to a recently-released Transportation Impact Fee Study. By 2027 it is projected that there will be 100,817 houses in that same area.

Business growth in that same stretch is also expected to continue to rise. As of 2017 there were 40,723,000 square feet of employment space along that corridor. It is projected that by 2027 that number will grow to 68,535,000 sq. ft.Howard Kurtz, Fox News media reporter and author of Media Madness. Photo: Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images

Media Madness: Donald Trump, the Press, and the War Over the Truth, Fox News media reporter Howard Kurtzs account of the first year of coverage of the Trump administration, opens with a now-famous episode from the administrations very first days in office. Press Secretary Sean Spicer holds a special news conference to lambaste the media for reporting that Trumps inauguration drew a smaller attendance than Barack Obamas eight years earlier. In front of a disbelieving press corps, Spicer insisted Trump had actually drawn a much larger crowd. It was a staggering, preposterous lie that could be debunked with simple photographs, not to mention the National Park Service.

Trumps War On The Media Has Been Years In The Making

Kurtz, though, does not mention that Spicers claim was untrue. Indeed, he barely touches upon the claim at all, which occupies just one sentence, and which his readers only learn about through his quoting a reporter barraging Trumps spokespeople with rude questions. Kurtz does not at any point quote the Spicer line  This was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration, period  that became so notorious Spicer performed a parody of it at the Emmy Awards. The episode, in Kurtzs telling, has nothing to do with the administrations lying. It shows instead how unfairly the media has treated the 45th president.

It is clear enough that Trump receives worse coverage in the mainstream news media than any other president since the invention of nonpartisan news. And yet it is simultaneously true that Trump is held to a more lenient standard than any other president. His administration produces so many errors, scandals, reversals, eye-popping meltdowns, and outright lies that it would be impossible for reporters to cover each of them the same way they would cover the same behavior under a normal presidency. Terrible stories about Trump are simply elbowed out of the news by other terrible stories about Trump. If it were revealed that another president had paid hush money to a porn star shortly before the election, youd hear about nothing else for months. The Stormy Daniels news virtually disappeared.

To Kurtz, however, the massive imbalance between Trumps coverage and coverage of other presidents can only be explained by media bias. He treats this premise as definitionally true  not defending it outright, but simply building his case as though no other explanation could even theoretically exist. And so the strange mission of his book is to analyze the hostile relationship between Trump and the mainstream news media without in any way acknowledging that Trump lies on a historic scale, or has in any other way departed from the historic norms of presidential behavior.

Kurtz does note that reporters often call[ed] Trump a liar  [and this] was repeated like a mantra, as an established fact. Is it a fact? Kurtz does not explore the question. To the extent Kurtz offers a theory as to why its wrong for the media to report on Trumps falsehoods, its that Trumps voters dont like it when they do: What many journalists fail to grasp is that Trumps supporters love his street talk. Most journalists I know do realize that Trumps supporters are willing to forgive almost anything he says or does, in part because they get their news from propaganda organs that supply them with a worldview designed to encourage such thinking. These journalists believe they should try to report as objectively as they can anyway.

Kurtz, like Trump, presents the Republican bases distrust of mainstream media as a decisive indictment. He does not consider the theory that a decades-long propaganda campaign by the conservative movement, and his employer in particular, to discredit non-party-controlled media has had any bearing on this reality. Instead he devotes his attention instead to media bias against the president.

***

Kurtz had been a somewhat right-leaning journalist for CNN and the Daily Beast. In 2013, Kurtz was fired from the Daily Beast for what editor Tina Brown called serial inaccuracy. That same year he moved to Fox News. In Kurtzs telling, his unmitigated embrace of the right-wing line is one he arrived at sadly and reluctantly. The last two years have radicalized me. I am increasingly troubled by how many of my colleagues have decided to abandon any semblance of fairness, he tells his readers. These are not easy words for me to write. Luckily for Kurtz, his radicalization happens to dovetail with his change of employer. Indeed, it is a prerequisite for retaining his Fox News salary. Perhaps that makes it a little easier for him to write those words.

Given how many stories have been written about Trump, statistics would suggest it should be easy to produce a fair number that clearly indicate bias. Kurtz nevertheless fails to produce them. There is only one nugget of original reporting to bolster Kurtzs accusation, and it is almost certainly false. Citing a Republican official, he claims New York Times reporter Jonathan Martin cursed out Trump as racist and fascist in a private conversation. Martin (who previously worked for National Review) vociferously denies that this occurred. Kurtz conjures the image of reporters celebrating openly at the travails of Steve Bannon  they practically broke into cheers and then, three pages later, were practically high-fiving. These imagined acts of bias have to substitute for his inability to describe actual ones.

The rest of the books evidence consists of Kurtz expressing indignation at what is actually fair coverage. For instance, Kurtz devotes a long (for him) section on Republican accusations that Obama administration national security adviser Susan Rice had improperly unmasked Trump campaign staffers. The charge briefly attracted a flurry of coverage, before (conservative) reporter Eli Lake discovered it to be false. Kurtz, of course, does not mention that the charge has been debunked. His takeaway is that the news media didnt devote enough attention to spreading the accusation in the first place: It wasnt clear whether Rice had done anything improper, but some journalists had no interest in finding out. (The irony, of course, is that Kurtz himself does not bother substantiating whether Rice had done anything wrong, yet accuses others of failing to care.)

Kurtz accuses the New York Times of publishing a news analysis of Trumps withdrawal from the Paris climate accord that read like an editorial. The offending passage in the news analysis stated Trumps decision would be a momentous setback. He omits the rest of the sentence, which reads,  for the effort to reduce climate change. Of course, it is hard to dispute the fact that American withdrawal from the Paris agreement would be a setback for the move to reduce climate change. This result was a selling point for many conservatives who celebrated Trumps decision.

Kurtz flays the media for reporting events he believes were unfounded, such as that Trump allegedly mocked a disabled New York Times reporter. (There is video.) There was still no firm evidence, he asserts, that the Trump campaign had colluded with the Russians. Among other things, Trumps adviser Roger Stone appeared to have advance warning of WikiLeaks email dumps, and several of his top officials had met in Trump Tower with a Russian said to be promising dirt on his opponent. Jared Kushner had been treated as the object of suspicion, Kurtz complains, without any evidence of wrongdoing on his part. That evidence of wrongdoing would include omitting multiple contacts with Russians on his disclosure forms, maintaining business interests from which he could profit through his role as Trump adviser, and setting up a secret back channel to communicate with Russia during the transition that he hid from American intelligence.

Kurtz describes the allegations that Trump hired Russian prostitutes falsehoods (they are actually unsubstantiated) and Trumps claim that he really won the popular vote but for several million illegal votes in California unsubstantiated (it has actually been proven false).

The narrative obstacle Kurtz encounters in the crafting of his book is that he cant list the alleged instances of reporters mistreating Trump without at least cursorily referring to the events they are covering. And many of those episodes are embarrassing, disgraceful, or otherwise impossible to brush aside. Kurtzs solution to this problem is to treat the president as though he is responding to his critics, thus rendering his apparent failures into a projection of their irrational hatred.

So, for instance, the daily barrage of reports of internal dysfunction in the incoming Trump administration is conveyed thus: [U]nnamed aides were out for themselves rather than worrying about what was best for the president-elect. (Kurtz is a journalist who believes the public should know less.) Because of their selfishness, what emerged was a portrait of a dysfunctional operation, which happened to jibe with the medias predominant view that Trump knew next to nothing about running a government. Kurtz blames leakers and reporters without actually disputing the accuracy of these reports.

This strange tic appears over and over. Trumps failures are passive, and ultimate responsibility for all of them ultimately lands on the media. His grotesque insult of Mika Brzezinski might reinforce the media indictment that he liked to denigrate womens looks. His demands for locking up his defeated opponent allowed the press to depict Trump as fostering a banana republic atmosphere. When Republican senators took the extraordinary step of charging their own partys president with debasing our country (Bob Corker) and being dangerous to our democracy (Jeff Flake), Kurtz records the episode like so: The media revelled in the narrative that leading Republicans were questioning Trumps character.

That this narrative was demonstrably correct  of course leading Republicans were questioning Trumps character! Kurtz quoted them doing that very thing!  matters to him not at all. A literal description of undisputed public events is a narrative, and since the narrative serves the end of Trumps enemies, describing it is biased.

Kurtz recounts one of his conversations, where Trump praises his work for its objectivity: Your problem, he said in a friendly tone, looking me in the eye, is that youre too down the middle. I said thats my job.

Here Kurtz presents himself almost as a quiet cinematic hero who has saved the day, and humbly deflects praise  just doin my job  before walking off into the sunset. Perhaps the more telling takeaway from this exchange is what this tells us about Kurtzs definition of real journalistic fairness: winning the admiration of Donald Trump.California must consider earlier parole for potentially thousands of sex offenders, maybe even those convicted of pimping children, a state judge said Friday.

Sacramento County Superior Court Judge Allen Sumner preliminarily ordered prison officials to rewrite part of the regulations for Proposition 57. The 2016 ballot measure allows consideration of earlier parole for most state prison inmates, but Gov. Jerry Brown promised voters all sex offenders would be excluded.

That goes too far, Sumner said in rejecting Deputy Attorney General Maria Chan's argument that the ballot measure gave state officials broad discretion to exclude any class of offenders whose release might harm public safety.

"If the voters had intended to exclude all registered sex offenders from early parole consideration under Proposition 57, they presumably would have said so," Sumner said.

He said the scope of exclusions should be narrowed to only those now serving time for a violent sex offense. And he said the Corrections Department must better define what falls into that category.

The judge said those who already served their time for a sex crime, even a violent one, and now are imprisoned for a different crime should be eligible for early release.

The language in Proposition 57 "left way too much wiggle room," opening the door to Sumner's ruling, said Mark Zahner, chief executive of the California District Attorneys Association that opposed the initiative. "There's a great danger of truly violent people being released early and people who commit, in this case, sex offenses that involve violence being released early."

The governor's office declined comment. Corrections spokeswoman Vicky Waters declined comment until after the judge's ruling is final and would not say if the state will appeal. She did not provide an estimate of how many offenders might be affected.

The ruling Friday could allow earlier parole for more than half of the 20,000 sex offenders now serving time, said Janice Bellucci, a Sacramento attorney and president of California Reform Sex Offender Laws. Her lawsuit on behalf of sex offenders argued that the rules conflict with the ballot measure's language and voters' intent in approving Proposition 57.

Bellucci argued the measure requires earlier parole consideration for any sex crime not on the state's narrow list of 23 violent felonies, which includes murder, kidnapping and forcible rape.

That could allow earlier parole for those convicted of raping a drugged or unconscious victim, intimately touching someone who is unlawfully restrained, incest, pimping a minor, indecent exposure and possessing child pornography.

The judge said corrections officials can make the case for excluding those offenders as they rewrite the regulations, but Bellucci said she will sue again if officials go too far.

"Until they figure something else out, they have to consider anybody convicted of a nonviolent offense even if it was a sex offense," Bellucci said outside the courtroom. "We believe we've won a battle but the war continues."

The Chief Probation Officers of California, which supported Proposition 57, still believes the measure excluded sex offenders, Executive Director Karen Pank said.

"We hope the issue will be more fully vetted on appeal," Pank said in a statement.

Opponents of the proposition had argued the language was so broad it could include sex offenders among those eligible for early release. They used the example of Brock Turner as someone who could benefit from a loose interpretation of violent crimes.

The former Stanford swimmer was convicted of sexually assaulting an unconscious woman outside a campus fraternity party. He was given a prison sentence of three months, which critics said was far too lenient.

Santa Clara County Judge Aaron Persky, who imposed Turner's sentence, is now facing a recall election in June over his handling of the case.The pastor of a Glendale church who surrendered to police in the eastern San Gabriel Valley after he was accused of molesting a teenage exchange student from China at a hotel was free Monday after posting $100,000 bail.

Douglas Rivera was accompanied by his lawyer when he walked into the Covina Police Department at 444 N. Citrus Ave. about 11 a.m. Sunday, Covina police Sgt. Ray Marquez told CNS. He was released on bail in the afternoon.

Rivera had been booked on suspicion of indecent exposure with a prior, oral copulation and burglary, Covina police Sgt. M. Colburn said. He was scheduled to appear at Citrus Superior Court in West Covina on Wednesday to be arraigned, according to jail records.

Rivera was accused of watching two girls through their motel window while masturbating in his truck, then breaking into their room, where he assaulted one girl.

The pastor of God's Gypsy Christian Church of Los Angeles proclaimed his innocence in a video shot while on the lam, saying he planed to turn himself in the following Wednesday.

"I did not do nothing wrong," Rivera said in a video posted on Instagram. "I was at the wrong place at the wrong time."

The 40-year-old pastor tearfully asked people to keep him in prayer and said he had been speaking with a lawyer.

Authorities were seen at Rivera's Baldwin Park home towing the Dodge 4500 Ram that he was seen riding in on the night when the alleged assault was reported.

Media images of the suspect led to numerous calls from people who are part of, or associated with, God's Gypsy Christian Church of Los Angeles. The callers said they believed the man depicted in surveillance video and still shots was Rivera.

The assault was reported at 8:08 p.m. Wednesday at Vanllee Hotel and Suites, 1211 E. Garvey St. Covina police said the suspect drove through the hotel's parking lot until he saw a lit room with drapes open and then parked his truck to face the interior of the room, police said.

Two teenage girls visiting from China on a field trip were inside the hotel room. Rivera exited the truck and stood outside of their hotel window pretending to be on the phone for more than 30 minutes before he walked through the hotel and entered the room once the girls opened the door, believing it was their chaperone, police said.What to Know Priscilla Torres, a 19-year-old student at Barry University in Miami Shores, died over the weekend after she had been reported missing.

Officials say she texted a friend that she was driving back to her dorm around 5 a.m. on Saturday, but never arrived.

Miami Police responded to a call of shots being fired near NW 29th Avenue and 11th Street around the same time.

Miami Police and officials at one South Florida university have confirmed a student who went missing this weekend as being the victim of a shooting in the Little Havana neighborhood.

Priscilla Torres, a 19-year-old freshman student at Barry University in Miami Shores, died over the weekend, according to the school. Officials say Torres texted a friend that she was driving back to her dorm around 5 a.m. on Saturday, but never arrived.

Miami Police responded to a call of shots being fired near NW 29th Avenue and 11th Street around the same time, at which time the victim was found and rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital where she later died.

Officers confirmed Monday morning that Torres was that shooting victim, saying they do not know a motive in the case as their investigation continues.

Family friends in Naples said it was awful to hear the news that Torres had lost her life.

"She used to come over to my house and she was so sweet. You know and her mom was so good. I really liked Priscilla," one friend told NBC 6 by phone. "This is really an awful thing to find out."



The school issued a statement about the "deep sorrow" they are experiencing, while offering counseling services to students or instructors that need them.

"We cannot imagine the profound heartache and anguish her parents and family members are suffering," school president, Sister Linda Bevilacqua, said in a statement. "As we mourn the tragic death of our student, we offer sympathy, prayers and comfort to her family, friends, classmates, faculty and everyone who loved her and shared her young life."

Police are still looking for the vehicle she was last seen driving, a white Nissan Sentra with the tag number HZBU86.

Anyone with any information in the case is asked to call Miami Police or Miami-Dade CrimeStoppers.What to Know A 5-year-old girl died of the flu over the weekend, marking New York City's fourth such pediatric death this season, health officials say

First responders found the child unconscious; they tried to resuscitate her, but she was pronounced dead at a hospital

Meanwhile, a New Jersey kindergartner's death is being investigated as flu-related, officials there say

A 5-year-old girl died of the flu over the weekend, marking New York City's fourth such pediatric death this season, health officials confirmed Monday, while a New Jersey kindergartner's death is being investigated as flu-related, officials there say.

In the case of the New York City girl, her panicked mother reached out to her neighbors for help when she found the child unconscious in their Canarsie home around 8 p.m. Saturday, emergency responders and witnesses had said. One neighbor ran in to give the girl CPR while another called 911.

First responders found the child unconscious; they tried to resuscitate her, but she was pronounced dead at a hospital. Neighbors said the family complained about the child having a fever prior to her death.

Health officials said no additional information about the New York City child would be released. In a statement, authorities called the girl's death tragic and urged anyone who had not been vaccinated against the virus to do so immediately.



It wasn't clear if the child had received a flu shot.



[NATL] These US Athletes Won Medals at the 2018 Winter Olympics

The New Jersey child was a kindergartner at Lincoln School in North Bergen, where she attended class Friday and was not sick, officials said. She died at a local hospital, and the school learned of her death Monday.

The school will be notifying parents Tuesday, and grief counselors will be available.

The New Jersey Department of Health, however, said it had not received any reports of a second pediatric flu death in the state as of Monday afternoon.

This years flu season is now as bad as the swine flu epidemic back in 2009. Last week, an 8-year-old girl from Queens died from the flu. Pediatric deaths have also been reported in Connecticut and New Jersey.

Last flu season, there were six flu-related child deaths in New York City, and 106 nationwide. Since 2004, anywhere from zero to eight pediatric flu deaths have been reported to the city's health department. With two months left of the 2017-18 season, health officials warn anyone who may be affected to seek medical care as soon as possible, particularly people with compromised immune systems, children, pregnant women and elderly people.

The Latest from Pyeongchang:

[NATL] In Photos: North Korean 'Army of Beauties' Cheers on a Unified Korean Team in PyeongchangWhat to Know President Donald Trump will unveil his long-awaited infrastructure plan, a $1.5 trillion proposal that fulfills a number of campaign goals

The maker of OxyContin said it will stop marketing opioid drugs to doctors, bowing to a key demand of lawsuits that blame it for drug abuse

New York's attorney general has filed a lawsuit against disgraced Hollywood movie producer Harvey Weinstein and the Weinstein Co.

Get the top headlines of the day in your morning briefing from NBC 4 New York, Monday through Friday. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Trump to Unveil $1.5 Trillion Infrastructure Plan

President Trump will unveil his long-awaited infrastructure plan, a $1.5 trillion proposal that fulfills a number of campaign goals, but relies heavily on state and local governments to produce much of the funding. The administration's plan is centered on using $200 billion in federal money to leverage local and state tax dollars to fix America's infrastructure, such as roads, highways, ports and airports. Trump has repeatedly blamed the "crumbling" state of the nation's roads and highways for preventing the American economy from reaching its full potential. Many in Washington believe Trump should have begun his term a year ago with an infrastructure push, one that could have garnered bipartisan support or, at minimum, placed Democrats in a bind for opposing a popular political measure. But the administration chose to begin with health care and relations with Democrats have only grown more strained during a turbulent, contentious year.

USA Takes Bronze, Nagasu Makes Medal in Figure Skating Team Event

The United States has won the bronze medal in the team figure skating competition at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. Canada struck gold with 73 points, followed by the Russians with 66 points. The U.S.'s final score was 62 points. While Canada's team clinched the top spot, the star of the performance was Team USA's Mirai Nagasu, who became the first American woman  only third overall  to land a triple axel in the Olympics. The 24-year-old from Montebello, California, skated first of the five women in the free skate and led off her routine with the triple axel just 21 seconds in. The feat drew huge cheers from the crowd at the Gangneung Ice Arena. Japan's Midori Ito and Mao Asada also landed triple axels during the Olympics. Nagasu completed a flawless routine, pumping both fists as she finished and got a standing ovation from the excited crowd. She received a personal-best score of 137.53, narrowly edging Canada's Gabrielle Daleman, who had 137.14, for third.

Airliner Crashes Near Moscow After Takeoff; 71 Presumed Dead

A Russian passenger plane carrying 71 people crashed near Moscow, killing everyone aboard shortly after the jet took off from one of the city's airports. The Saratov Airlines regional jet disappeared from radar screens a few minutes after departing from Domodedovo Airport en route to Orsk, a city some 1,000 miles southeast of Russias capital city. Fragments from the twin-engine Antonov An-148 airliner were found in the Ramenskoye area, about 25 miles from the airport. State television footage showed the pieces strewn across a snowy field. No one on the ground was reported hurt. State news agency Tass said the plane, which had been flying since 2010, was out of service for two years because of a shortage of parts. Russian news reports said the jet carried 65 passengers and six crew members. Transport Minister Maxim Sokolov confirmed that there were no survivors but did not give the number of people on board. Russia's Investigative Committee said all possible causes were being explored.

OxyContin Maker Will Stop Promoting Opioids to Doctors

The maker of the powerful painkiller OxyContin said it will stop marketing opioid drugs to doctors, bowing to a key demand of lawsuits that blame the company for helping trigger the current drug abuse epidemic. OxyContin has long been the world's top-selling opioid painkiller, bringing in billions in sales for privately-held Purdue, which also sells a newer and longer-lasting opioid drug called Hysingla. Purdue's statement said it eliminated more than half its sales staff this week and will no longer send sales representatives to doctors' offices to discuss opioid drugs. Its remaining sales staff of about 200 will focus on other medications. The OxyContin pill, a time-release version of oxycodone, was hailed as a breakthrough treatment for chronic pain when it was approved in late 1995. It worked over 12 hours to maintain a steady level of oxycodone in patients suffering from a wide range of pain ailments. But some users quickly discovered they could get a heroin-like high by crushing the pills and snorting or injecting the entire dose at once. In 2010 Purdue reformulated OxyContin to make it harder to crush and stopped selling the original form of the drug.

New York Attorney General Files Lawsuit Against Harvey Weinstein

New York's attorney general has filed a lawsuit against disgraced Hollywood movie producer Harvey Weinstein and the Weinstein Co. following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman launched a civil rights probe into the New York City-based company in October after The New York Times and The New Yorker exposed allegations of sexual assault and harassment spanning decades. Scores of women, including well-known actresses, have come forward with stories of forced sexual encounters. Weinstein was fired by the film company he founded with his brother Robert and expelled from Hollywood's movie academy. Schneiderman's investigation found that employees were subjected to various verbal threats from Weinstein such as "I will kill you, I will kill your family, and "you don't know what I can do." Telephone and email messages seeking comment from Weinstein and the company were not immediately returned.What to Know A guard was ambushed by inmates at a Rikers Island jail, officials said

First an inmate punched him in the face, knocking him down. Then other inmates joined in to kick and punch him on the ground

The guard's spine was fractured in his neck region

Several inmates allegedly involved in the "sickening" ambush of a Rikers Island guard, a brutal attack that left him with a fractured spine and brain bleeding over the weekend, are expected to be arraigned on various charges Monday.



The 39-year-old correctional officer, Jean Souffrant, was attacked at George Motchan Detention Center around 6:30 p.m. Saturday, union sources said. The jail is scheduled to close this year as part of a plan to close the troubled complex.

The officer's spine was fractured in his neck region and he suffered bleeding in the brain. He remained hospitalized in stable condition days after the attack, which was caught by surveillance cameras. Those cameras show an inmate first punch the officer in the face, then a group of inmates start kicking and punching him on the ground. Other officers pepper-spray them.



The inmate who allegedly threw the first punch, Steven Espinal, has a lengthy rap sheet including charges of attempted murder and assaulting an officer. He along with three others -- Samson Walston, Nazeem Francis and David Burns, all younger than 21 -- were arraigned Monday. All four suspects pleaded not guilty. Attorney information for them wasn't immediately available, nor was it clear which charges they would face in connection with the ambush.

The president of the union, Elias Husamudeen, that represents guards said Rikers has a gang problem. He said the inmate had previously threatened to punch the officer, and allegedly had a beef with Souffrant after he wrote up the inmate for having a window covering in his cell.

Husamudeen held Mayor de Blasio responsible for the attack and also pointed out the mayor ended solitary confinement for inmates 21 and younger a few years ago, which allowed for the suspects in Souffrant's attack to be in the general population in the first place.

The union opposes the new solitary confinement policy. Husamudeen also said he wants the Department of Justice to investigate the gangs at Rikers.

De Blasio spoke to the officer and would get to the bottom of the "heinous attack," press secretary Eric Phillips said in a tweet.

A number of Souffrant's fellow correction officers filed into the courtroom for the hearings Monday.



City officials expressed horror at the attack.



"What happened to our brother last night at the hands of a violent group of cowardly inmates was sickening," Corrections Commissioner Cynthia Brann said Sunday. "They'll be held accountable for this crime, but right now our thoughts and concerns are with our hospitalized officer and his family."

She said an investigation is underway and anyone involved would be arrested.

De Blasio spoke to the officer and would get to the bottom of the "heinous attack," press secretary Eric Phillips said in a tweet.

Correctional officers "have one of the hardest jobs in city government - often thankless and always dangerous," he tweeted.

The victim's cousin, Gui Souffrant, told NBC 4 New York that he had worked as a prison guard for two years.

He has a masters degree from Haiti and is married, Souffrant said.What to Know The envelope was addressed to Donald Trump Jr. and mailed to a Manhattan apartment unit belonging to his wife, Vanessa

Vanessa Trump went to a hospital as a precaution, though the substance was determined not to be hazard

It's not clear who sent the powder; NYPD intelligence detectives and Secret Service are investigating

An envelope containing a nonharmful white powder addressed to Donald Trump Jr. was sent to a Manhattan apartment building unit that belongs to Trump Jr.'s wife, Vanessa, the president's daughter-in-law, on Monday, authorities say.



The powder -- which appears to be corn starch -- was mailed to the East 54th Street apartment and was being taken to a lab in the city for futher analysis, according to law enforcement officials. It's not clear who sent the envelope but it was postmarked from Boston, according to a senior law enforcement official.

Vanessa Trump, 40, opened the letter Monday morning and was decontaminated at the scene as a precaution, according to a senior official with knowledge of the investigation. She called 911 to report coughing and nausea.



Vanessa Trump was taken to a hospital for observation, also strictly as a precaution, according to three senior officials. Sources initially said two other people were taken to hospitals. There's no indication anyone was hurt.



[[473754053, C]]

On Monday evening, Vanessa Trump tweeted "Thank you so much for all the help today in NYC! I appreciate all the quick response to make sure that I was safe ! Thank you @FDNY @SecretService @NYPDnews @NYPDCT @NewYorkFBI."

Donald Trump Jr., meanwhile, tweeted Monday afternoon, "Thankful that Vanessa & my children are safe and unharmed after the incredibly scary situation that occurred this morning. Truly disgusting that certain individuals choose to express their opposing views with such disturbing behavior."

Ivanka Trump also tweeted that she was thinking of her sister-in-law and wishing she were by her side: "No one deserves to be frightened this way. There is no excuse."

The president, meanwhile, hasn't commented on the episode. But white House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said that he had spoken to her on the phone.

Michael Cohen, one of the president's personal attorneys, said in a statement, "How disturbed must a person be to do what they did to a mother of five young children? This dangerous and reckless act goes beyond political differences."

The FDNY responded to a call about a suspicious susbstance at the building shortly after 10 a.m.; the nature of the powder wasn't immediately clear, though it appears to be corn starch. Lab test results are expected back Tuesday morning.

It wasn't immediately clear if there was a written note in the accompanying envelope.



Police and other emergency units remained on the scene Monday afternoon as NYPD intelligence detectives and Secret Service agents investigated. The area was shut down for a time but had reopened by about 2 p.m.



The Secret Service and our law enforcement partners in New York City are investigating a suspicious package addressed to one of our protectees received today in New York, New York," the agency said in a statement. "This is an active investigation and we cannot comment any further.



Trump Jr. married Vanessa Trump, formerly Vanessa Kay Haydon, in November 2005 at Mara-a-Lago. Trump Jr.'s aunt officiated. The couple has five children; none of the kids were home at the time of the incident.



[NATL] Feb. 12 Olympics in Photos: Mirai Nagasu Makes History, Anderson Wins Gold

In March 2016, police detectives and FBI agents investigated a threatening letter sent to the Manhattan apartment of Donald Trump Jr.'s brother, Eric, that also contained a white powder that turned out to be harmless. Envelopes containing white powder were also sent to Trump Tower, which served as Trump's campaign headquarters, twice in 2016.



The Latest from Pyeongchang:

[NATL] In Photos: North Korean 'Army of Beauties' Cheers on a Unified Korean Team in PyeongchangWhat to Know A guard was ambushed by inmates at a Rikers Island jail, officials said

First an inmate punched him in the face, knocking him down. Then other inmates joined in to kick and punch him on the ground

The guard's spine was fractured in his neck region

A guard at Rikers Island was ambushed by a group of inmates who beat him until he fractured his spine, officials said.

First an inmate punched him in the face, then a group of inmates began kicking and punching the officer on the ground, surveillance video shows.

The 39-year-old correctional officer was attacked at George Motchan Detention Center around 6:30 p.m. Saturday, the union sources said. The jail is scheduled to close this year as part of a plan to close the troubled jail complex.

His spine was fractured in his neck region.

"What happened to our brother last night at the hands of a violent group of cowardly inmates was sickening," Corrections Commissioner Cynthia Brann said. "They'll be held accountable for this crime, but right now our thoughts and concerns are with our hospitalized officer and his family."

She said an investigation is underway and anyone involved would be arrested.

The president of the union that represents guards said Rikers has a gang problem and held Mayor Bill de Blasio responsible for the attack.

Elias Husamudeen said he wants the Department of Justice to investigate the gangs at Rikers.

He said the inmate had previously threatened to punch the officer.

De Blasio spoke to the officer and would get to the bottom of the "heinous attack," press secretary Eric Phillips said in a tweet.

Correctional officers "have one of the hardest jobs in city government - often thankless and always dangerous," he tweeted.

The victim's cousin, Gui Souffrant, told NBC 4 New York that he had worked as a prison guard for two years.

He has a masters degree from Haiti and is married, Souffrant said.

The inmate who allegedly threw the first punch, Steven Espinal, has a lengthy rap sheet including charges of attempted murder and assaulting an officer.

It wasn't immediately clear whether Espinal had an attorney.The FBI and General Services Administration are recommending the demolition of the J. Edgar Hoover Building and the construction of a new FBI headquarters on the same site at an estimated cost of $3.3 billion.

The GSA and FBI recommended the plan in a report submitted Monday to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, a GSA representative told News4.

"Crumbling facades, aging infrastructure, physical, structural and security limitations in the degraded facility all are severely impeding the FBIs ability to meet its critical law enforcement and national security missions," a statement from the GSA said.

The GSA and FBI's plan calls for FBI operations to temporarily be relocated, as the hulking J. Edgar Hoover building on Pennsylvania Avenue is demolished.

The FBI and GSA requested full federal funding of the project.

The proposal marks a shift from what the GSA, which oversees federal office space, said in July. The GSA said it did not have enough money to move forward on a decade-long plan to move FBI headquarters to Maryland or Virginia.

Three sites in the D.C. area were named as finalists for the relocated headquarters: Greenbelt, Maryland; Landover, Maryland; and Springfield, Virginia.

Local and federal officials had been intensely jockeying for the new facility, which would have been a massive economic development project with the potential to bring thousands of jobs, expand the tax base and boost area retail and service industries.

Elected officials in Maryland slammed the Trump administration's decision to abandon the relocation plans, which the officials said wasted time and taxpayer dollars, and endangered national security.

"I've never seen a decision handled with more mismanagement and more negligence," Sen. Chris Van Hollen said at the time.

Hardly praised as architecture, the iconic Hoover building has become part of American culture, serving as the backdrop for news broadcasts, novels, television dramas and movies. Agents moved into it in 1974, from cramped quarters in the Justice Department across the street.

Stay with News4 for more details on this developing story.D.C. Police arrested a man and charged him with first degree murder in the shooting death of a woman.

Kerrice KK Lewis, 23, of Hyattsville, Maryland, was shot multiple times and stuffed in the trunk of her car, which was set on fire in an alley in the 800 block of Adrian Place SE on Dec. 28, 2017.

Police arrested 23-year-old Ashton Briscoe, a Northeast, D.C. resident, and charged him with first degree murder while armed.

At 6:20 p.m., about an hour before Lewis was found, 27-year-old Armani Niko Coles of northwest D.C. was pushed out of a car onto Kenilworth Avenue near the D.C.-Maryland border, about two miles away from the other crime scene. Coles, a building engineer for D.C. Public Schools, had been shot multiple times.

Medics took him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Police were investigating whether the two killings were related, News4 previously reported, but police have not announced any arrests or charges related to Coles' death.

Mercedes Roulac, a friend of Lewis, said Lewis and Coles were friends for years, possibly since childhood.

Its tragic, said Lewis grandfather William Sharp. Loss for words on it. She didnt deserve it.

Sharp helped raise Lewis after her father was murdered in 2006.

Its a cruel world out here, he said. We tried to relay that message to her every day.

It hurt, Roulac said. It not only hurt me, it hurt my son.

Roulac said Lewis was very close to her son.

She loved my son like he was her son, she said.

She was just free-spirited, wouldnt hurt a fly, Sharp said.Finally, a truth-teller in the White House. Photo: MIKE THEILER/AFP/Getty Images

The New York Times reported that Jeanine Pirro, the former judge and Fox News mainstay, has discussed with President Trump the possibility of a book project to counter the damning portrayal of his presidency in Michael Wolffs book Fire and Fury, according to three people with knowledge of their conversations.

What the Times didnt mention was that Pirro has already completed a draft of the book, the top half of the first page of which New York happened to find under a Dominos box in a trash can two blocks from the White House. As you can see below, Pirro has retained her distinctive voice in this sure-to-be-controversial account.

CHAPTER 1: THE GREATEST PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT TRUMP, who definitely did want to win the presidency despite what you may have read in other PROPAGANDA HIT JOBS, strode into the Oval Office on January 20th after being celebrated by the BIGGEST CROWD in inaugural history.

There was a lot on the presidents plate, from the economy to Obamacare repeal to the CHINA MENACE. But first, he had to clean up the MESS made by the last administration and CROOKED HILLARY Clinton. Having watched as she got away with murder, there was only one REASONABLE THING TO DO. And that was to LOCK. HER. UP!!

For the good of America, we need to get to the bottom of Hillarys email server, Trump said, soberly. Everyone in the room nodded. Everyone KNEW this was the most pressing issue facing our great country.

But little did Trump realize in that moment that members of his OWN CABINET, together with the TREASONOUS FBI, would conspire against him to protect the OBAMA DEEP STATE.

The HIGHLY LITERATE, 63 leader was in for the fight of his life.

Wow! We cant wait to read the bottom half of page one and beyond. This has the ring of a best seller!Rhode Island health officials say a cleaning solution may have contributed to the physical reactions several students across the state experienced after eating kiwi fruit.

The state Health Department says it is testing the levels of peracetic acid used to clean the kiwis, and lab results are expected next week.

The department previously said around 34 students in cities including Providence and Woonsocket suffered itching of the lips and mouth, hives and tongue swelling on Friday after eating fresh kiwi.

"I couldn't breathe that much," 8-year old Waleska told WJAR-TV.

The third grader said her tongue went numb after eating her school lunch, forcing her to quickly scribble a note to tell the adults at Times2 STEM Academy in Providence she ate some kiwi and was starting to feel like she couldn't breathe.

"I bit it and I got some of the skin by accident, and that's when my tongue started to get numb," Waleska told WJAR-TV.

A school nurse quickly used an epi pen on the girl and she was then rushed to an area hospital.

Health officials all of the fruit had been cut and bagged at Roch's Fresh Foods in West Greenwich. The fruit is being discarded, and the vendor's kiwi distribution has been suspended.

The health department says it plans to interview workers at the store Monday.More than 75 people gathered Monday night, packing a church in Millis, Massachusetts, to mourn the loss of 20-year-old Olivia Bergstrom and to pray for healing for the parents of Benjamin Walsh.

Pastor Jim Longhurst was at the vigil Monday, and he was also at the Primavera restaurant in Millis Saturday night when Walsh allegedly stabbed both of his parents.

Many are still reeling, unable to make sense of the tragedy that unfolded over the weekend.

Walsh, 24, is charged with killing his girlfriend in the apartment they shared before he stabbed his parents in the restaurant.

The suspect broke down in tears as details of his case were read at his arraignment on Monday.

Bruised and bandaged, he was arraigned in his bed at Milford Hospital on charges related to the stabbing of his parents. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was ordered held without bail.

Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey said Millis police officers responded to a report of a stabbing at the restaurant and found Walsh's parents suffering from stab wounds.

Jerry Gaita, the owner of Primavera, said Walsh's family was celebrating a birthday at the restaurant when Walsh showed up and suddenly attacked, stabbing his mother and father until family members pulled him off.

"I went over to where Benjamin was laying down on the floor, they had him down and Millis police arrived with EMTs," Gaita said.

Walsh's mother was hospitalized in serious condition; her current condition is unclear. His father was treated and later released.

After taking Walsh into custody, officers learned they had to do a well-being check at his girlfriend's Marshall Street apartment in Needham. When they arrived, 20-year-old Olivia Bergstrom was found fatally stabbed, according to Morrissey.

Prosecutors said that on the night of the murder, Walsh told his family he was going to kill all of them. But he was in tears as he faced a judge on Monday and was forced to listen to the gruesome details.

When police found Bergstrom, prosecutors said she was only partially dressed and covered in blood, with stab wounds all over her body. She had suffered 13 stab wounds to her back and three to her abdomen.

After that, prosecutors said Walsh went to Primavera Restaurant and attacked his parents, stabbing them both repeatedly until he was restrained.

Walsh has not yet been charged with Bergstrom's death. He is expected to be arraigned in Dedham District Court next month in connection with that case.

His grandfather did not want to go on camera Monday but told NBC10 Boston that Walsh was being treated for mental health issues daily and that Bergstrom and his parents were trying to help him.

Walsh's father told The Boston Globe that his son has struggled with mental health and substance abuse issues, and called the situation a "nightmare."

Walsh's attorney would not elaborate on his client's condition on Monday, but police records show that on the night of the killing, Walsh was suspected of using alcohol and drugs.What to Know State and local police are still investigating the crash that claimed the lives of Talia Newfield, 16, and Adrienne Garrido, 17

Officials say grief counselors will be on hand to help students and staff through the week

The teens were best friends and student-athletes, according to family and school officials

A Massachusetts high school community is grieving following the tragic deaths of two students who were hit by at least one car over the weekend.

At Needham High School, where 17-year-old Adrienne Garrido and 16-year-old Talia Newfield were juniors, classmates were experiencing a "full range of emotions and feelings," Needham superintendent Dan Gutekanst said Monday morning.

"It's a tough scene there," he said.

"We miss you, Talia," her father, Craig Newfield, said. "We can't make any sense out of it."

Gutekanst also said he has spoken with the girls' families.

"They are, needless to say, devastated and really at a loss for words right now," he said.

Newfield and Garrido were hit by at least one car while walking on Webster Street on Saturday evening; Newfield died at the hospital shortly after the crash, while Garrido died at a Boston hospital Sunday evening.

Authorities confirm two cars  a gray Nissan Sentra and a red Cadillac  were involved in the incident. Both drivers were questioned by police, who are continuing to investigate. No charges have been filed and neither driver's identity has been released.

"They're looking at more than one driver. That's all I have to say about that. It's a complicated set of circumstances that they have to translate," Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey said.



Grief counselors, who attended to the needs of students and staff over the weekend, were also available on Monday. A vigil was also held over the weekend.

"Its one of the things you read about but when it happens to someone you really know, its really hard to process," said friend Ben Aliber.



Newfield's parents were seen at the growing memorial for their daughter and her best friend at the scene of the crash Monday morning, where they thanked the community for their support in this awful time.

"We don't understand what happened," Newfield told NBC10 Boston. "We don't understand how two beautiful young women can get taken from us in the space of about 20 feet on a clear evening on a flat, straight street."

Newfield added that investigators told him neither driver was drunk, and that multiple witnesses have come forward.

Gutekanst said the teens, who were both three-sport student-athletes at the high school, were honored by the school's track team during a meet on Sunday, adding that both teens were "really invested in the community."

The investigation into the deadly crash is ongoing.Fire officials are investigating a two-alarm fire at a Salem, New Hampshire apartment building that left one person dead Saturday night.

Firefighters responded to the blaze at Building A at 99 Cluff Crossing Road around 11 p.m. Fire officials reported heavy fire coming from the second-floor window area, moving into the third floor, according to a media statement issued by the department.

Fire officials reported seven people were trapped inside, and they rescued four of them using ladders. One person jumped to safety, officials said. Five people were taken to Portsmouth Medical Center for treatment.

Officials said residents in 11 apartments were displaced from the fire damage. The Red Cross was assisting them.

The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the fire.

Manchester was assisted by several other departments in battling the blaze.

Fire officials did not release the names of the injured or the person who died in the blaze.A second teenager who was critically injured after being hit by a vehicle in Needham, Massachusetts has died from her injuries, according to the Norfolk County District Attorney.

Seventeen-year-old Needham High School student Adrienne Garrido was taken to a Boston hospital following the Saturday night crash and then died Sunday from her injuries.

Another 16-year-old, Talia Newfield of Needham, had died at the hospital Saturday following the crash.

The crash happened in the area of Webster and Holland Streets in Needham Saturday night.

There are no charges at this time, though the incident remains under investigation by the Needham Police Department, the CARS unit of the Massachusetts State Police and the Norfolk District Attorney's office.

The cafeteria at Needham High School, where both teens were students, was open to students for a few hours on Sunday to allow them to talk to counselors and each other.

Counselors and other support and resources will be made available to students throughout the week.The mayor of Burlington, Vermont, is denouncing a white supremacist organization that gathered at a city park over the weekend.

The Burlington Free Press reports Mayor Miro Weinberger wrote in a statement that "white supremacist groups like Patriot Front" aren't welcome in Burlington following a rally Saturday at City Hall Park. Patriot Front released a video on Twitter showing members carrying American flags and a banner that read "Reclaim America."

The Anti-Defamation League describes the Patriot Front as a white supremacist group whose members believe their ancestors conquered America.

A group of about 250 counter-protesters, led by activist Jabari Jones, met in South Burlington earlier Saturday morning in response to social media reports that the Patriot Front would hold a rally in the area. Weinberger commended the anti-racist coalition for promoting "inclusivity and equality."

Christian charity's backpack appeal for Norwich prison Christian charity's backpack appeal for Norwich prison

Loving by Giving, a Christian charity, is appealing for Christians across Norfolk to donate survival items to fill backpacks for ex-offenders who have nowhere to go when released from HMP Norwich.

A project set up by the Christian charity Loving by Giving in conjunction with HM Prison Norwich, provides an urban survival kit for life on the streets, to ex- offenders being released from HMP Norwich with no fixed abode. But they need help.



Alison Wernham, Project Co-ordinator for Loving by Giving said: The backpack gives these ex-offenders a starter pack to assist them initially on release. There is currently the need to provide approximately 10 backpacks a month - this number is expected to increase - containing 15 essential items. The approximate cost of the items per pack is 25-30 per bag. As well as the packs we are also providing sleeping bags, blankets and clothing.



Loving by Giving is a charity that works to relieve poverty and change peoples lives practically. As well as being a charity, there is also a Loving by Giving Church which meets in West Costessey Hall on the Queens Hill Estate in Costessey.



Alison said: We really believe that together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of many people who are in desperate need. It would be a privilege to work with you in this endeavour and therefore we do hope that you will support us in this cause.



The charity is appealing for the following items:

Sleeping Bags

Toothbrush

Hand towel

Cereal bar

Toothpaste

Warm hat (home knitted or bought)

Refillable Water bottle

Shaving foam

Mens gloves and scarves (home knitted or bought)

Pen

Safety razor

Mens socks

Notepad

Shower gel

Mens rain mac

5 supermarket voucher.The Diocese of Norwich has an exciting opportunity for a dynamic Communications Manager to be responsible for the development and implementation of a multiplatform communications strategy, supporting the vision to be Transformed by Christ.

The Diocese of Norwich has an exciting opportunity for a dynamic Communications Manager to be responsible for the development and implementation of a multiplatform communications strategy, supporting the vision to be Transformed by Christ.

Norfolk gives generously to Afghan refugee fund Thanks to the generosity of people across Norfolk and Waveney, the Bishop of Norwichs Refugee Fund has received nearly 36,000 in the past fortnight, to help the arriving and expected new refugees from Afghanistan. The Diocese of Norwich is administering Read more

Norwich Christian leaders invited to meet together The Transforming Norwich steering group are inviting Christian leaders to meet together in-person for the first time in 18 months to share lunch and to encourage and pray for one another. Read more

Norfolks baking expert Chris serves up a treat After clocking up many years of experience as cafe manager at the Kings Church Centre in Norwich, Chris Bottomley has now launched his own business creating masterpiece cakes. Read more

Heritage events at secret Norwich chapel The Old Meeting House Congregational Church in Colegate will be open during the weekend of September 18 and 19, and will use the occasion to kick start its popular monthly 'Big Sing' event. Read more

A dinosaur roar of hope for Gods creation Andy Bryant, who has been project managing the current Dippy attraction in Norwich Cathedral, points out that the Diplodocus skeleton represents far more than a display of old bones. Read more

Relocation for Norwich Healing Rooms Norwich Healing Rooms returns every Thursday evening at a new venue in Heartsease as well as monthly on Saturdays Norwich city centre. Read more

An African mission for South Norfolk churches An empowering mission for a struggling community in Zimbabwe struck an immediate chord with Carolyn Skittrall who supports several South Norfolk churches to bring change and growth through practical initiative and insight. Read more

Gorleston church thanks Covid volunteers St Mary Magdalene church in Gorleston has hosted a Big Thank You afternoon tea to thank the volunteers who had supported the community during the COVID pandemic. Read more

Fulmerstons Christian footballer celebrates 30 years on the pitch Tim Lovejoy from Fulmerston Christian Fellowship has clocked up over 500 games in a three-decade career with his local football club. Read more

St Martins memorial garden officially open A memorial garden to remember people experiencing homelessness who have died was opened on September 6 by the Rt Rev Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich. The garden is in the grounds of Bishopbridge House, the direct access hostel run by St Martins. Read more

Loving care and Christian ethos at Corton House Excellent loving care and support is provided at Corton House, a care home with a Christian ethos located in the heart of Norwich. Read more

Norma's sponsored walks for Christian charities Norma Broadest is embarking on two walking challenges to raise funds for Christian charities Street Child and Restoration of Hope in Burundi. Read more

93,000 in the East will skip meals if Credit is cut 93,000 people in the East of England fear they will be forced to skip meals if UK government cuts Universal Credit payments this October says the Trussell Trust  the Christian charity behind many of the foodbanks across the country. Read more

Providing retirement care with a Christian ethos Care and retirement homes in Norfolk, including Eckling Grange, Corton House and Quebec Hall, are providing loving care with a Christian ethos. Read more

Jill's teaching series offers a rock in stormy times Jill Gower is beginning a new series of teaching days at the Light House in Heartsease, looking at End Times through Biblical prophecy. Read more

Exciting new roles available at YMCA Norfolk YMCA Norfolk is currently advertising a number of exciting new vacancies available across the organisation including a Senior Maintenance Co-ordinator, a Chef, a Nursery Nurse and Housing Engagement Workers. Read more

Now is the time to start loving our enemies Philip Young has been considering recent events in the Middle East and believes that it is now even more important than ever to remember Jesus instruction to love our enemies. Read moreBETHEL  Patrick Bowles and Stella Nayre quickly connected when they met in November 2013 through an online Catholic chat room.

Even though Bowles was in Bethel and Nayre thousands of miles away in the Philippines, they shared their faith and a desire for companionship.

After six months, Bowles flew to the Philippines to meet Nayre in person. He proposed during the seven-day trip, and at the beginning of 2015 they got married in his living room..

In the nearly three years since, Stella Bowles has lived in the United States legally on a visa. But when she went back to the Philippines two months ago for the funeral of a beloved nephew, a paperwork snafu kept her from returning.

Stella Bowles, 51, lacked a confirmation letter that proves she is legally allowed to travel in and out of the United States. Her husband said she should have received the paperwork months ago when her visa renewal was approved.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services official told him they had sent the letter and declined to send another until last week, after several phone calls and visits to their Hartford office, as well as pressure from U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.

Weve been in turmoil these last few months, said Patrick Bowles, 57.

A spokeswoman for the USCIS said she could not comment on individual cases, but that long processing times could have led to the delay.

Bowles immediately sent the document to the Philippines through FedEx and plans to book his wifes flight home once she receives the paperwork.

In the meantime, he said, their lives are on hold.

A remodeling project had to be delayed. Christmas presents are still under the tree in the living room. The rice cooker Stella used regularly hasnt been touched.

She calls three to four times a day begging to come home.

Im sad because I want to be with you, she said over the phone Sunday.

Ryann Martinez, a friend from St. Marys Church in Bethel, said Stella Bowles frequently asks him to invite her husband over for dinner to cheer him up.

He was quite depressed, Martinez said. He was trying to be very jovial and everything, but hes exhausted with all the process.

Bowles has become even more dedicated to the church to get his mind off of the stress, he said.

Martinez, who moved from the Philippines in 1997, when he was 18, said he was surprised at the difficulties the couple has faced despite following the regular procedures.

Its just sad to know that people who have been through all the legal process still suffer that way, he said.

For Stella Bowles to earn her initial one-year visa, the couple underwent a background check and provided emails, photographs, plane tickets and letters to prove the legitimacy of their relationship. Once she was in the U.S., they were married by then-State Rep. Dan Carter within the required 90-day window.

Stella Bowles later earned a two-year temporary green card and began working at Macys, a job she loves.

The green card was set to expire at the beginning of October, but the couple waited until August, when they had the money to apply for a 10-year green card  a month later she should have.

Still, in mid-October, Stella Bowles received a form from USCIS saying the application had been approved. The couple thought the missing confirmation letter wouldnt be a problem, because she didnt need to leave the United States.

Then, Stellas nephew, 22-year-old Mitch, was killed in a car crash in the Philippines, the day after graduating from college with a nursing degree. The two had been close; she had helped raise him.

When her husband told her the news, while she was at work, she fainted.

We had no choice, Patrick Bowles said. We had to do whatever we could to get her [to the Philippines].

Bowles credits Blumenthal and the support of his congregation at St. Marys Church as the reason his wife will be permitted back in the country.

Stella Bowes is a loving wife and neighbor who has been living in the United States legally, Blumenthal said in a statement. A simple clerical error made by USCIS should never have prevented Stella from returning to her husband and to the country she calls home.

Bowles hopes that Stella is home for their three-year wedding anniversary on Feb. 22. They plan to open Christmas presents and eat at one of their favorite restaurants, Red Lobster. Then hell take her shopping for whatever she wants.Brought to you by Tesla? Photo: NASA Commons/Flickr

Are you a small-government conservative who wants to keep the federal government out of zero gravity? Well, you may be in luck.

The Washington Post reported on Sunday that, according to a NASA document it obtained, the Trump administration is proposing to make the International Space Station a privately run enterprise by the end of 2025.

Under the plan, the White House would fund the station as normal through 2024, but at the same time expand international and commercial partnerships over the next seven years in order to ensure continued human access to and presence in low Earth orbit. Specifics about which companies would be involved, or how any of the infrastructure would work, are thin.

As the Post notes, the station is no stranger to private industry; Boeing currently operates it at a cost of $3 to $4 billion a year.

But the Trump administration, as in so many other areas, would go much farther than its predecessors, cutting off federal funding altogether.

The space-station proposal is of a piece with large overall budget cuts to NASA envisioned by the Trump administration as part of its 2018 budget. But the NASA cuts (along with the entire budget) have a very long way to go to become reality, and have already run into major detractors, even among conservatives.

On Wednesday, Senator Ted Cruz said that, I hope that those reports prove as unfounded as Bigfoot, and blamed numbskulls at the White Houses Office of Management and Budget for a misguided idea.

Then theres the matter of other countries. The International Space System is, after all, international, and its unlikely that Americas partners in low orbit would be so enthusiastic about the U.S. bringing about the deconstruction of the intergalactic state.

In a statement, Boeings Space Station manager Mark Mulqueen said that handing over a rare national asset to commercial enterprises before the private sector is ready to support it could have disastrous consequences for American leadership in space and for the chances of building space-focused private enterprise.

As is often the case, the Trump administration seems alone in wanting to gut a long-standing American-funded institution.A Duke University-led study has found dangerously high levels of mercury and its more toxic chemical cousin, methylmercury, in soils, sediments and rivers near artisanal gold mines in the West African nation of Senegal.

"Nearly every sample we collected from in and around four mining villages contained mercury concentrations higher than regulatory standards set by the World Health Organization and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency," said Jacqueline Gerson, a PhD student in ecology at Duke.

"In nearly all cases, the level of contamination was more than 10 times higher than these standards, with some cases up to 100 times higher," she said. "This makes them some of the highest levels ever reported at artisanal and small-scale gold mining sites worldwide."

Mercury poisoning can cause a wide range of health impacts, including tremors, muscle weakness, vision and hearing impairments, and loss of coordination and balance. In severe cases, it can lead to birth defects or death.

Artisanal gold miners in Senegal and many other developing nations use mercury to separate gold ore from soil and sediments, often with inadequate safeguards to protect themselves or the surrounding environment. This process results in large amounts of mercury being burned off into the atmosphere or spilled into nearby soils and waters.

Scientists previously believed that mercury from these mines is converted into its more toxic form, methylmercury, mostly in aquatic ecosystems. "But our study conclusively shows it is being formed in soil systems, too. It's initially released from mining operations as elemental mercury but once in the soil, it can be converted into methylmercury by microbial activity," Gerson said.

This newfound knowledge raises concerns that villagers could be exposed to mercury not only by eating contaminated fish from the water, but also by eating crops grown on contaminated soil or livestock grazing on this land. Children might be at risk if they accidentally ingest this soil during play.

Humans and other large predators face the highest risks, since methylmercury bioaccumulates in body tissue as it moves up the food chain. "Birds and amphibians have been shown to have lower survivorship and reduced viability of offspring when exposed to high levels of methylmercury," Gerson noted.

She and her colleagues published their peer-reviewed study Feb. 2 in the journal Elementa: Science of the Anthropocene.

To conduct the research, they collected soil, sediment and water samples from in and around four artisanal gold-mining communities in southeastern Senegal, as well as from a control village where no mining took place. Sampling was conducted in May, 2016.

Gerson has shared the team's study with the Senegalese government and nongovernmental organizations in Senegal. Policymakers can use the findings to inform a nationwide action plan now being developed to reduce mercury emissions and human exposures under the terms of the UN-sponsored Minamata Convention on Mercury, which went into effect in August 2017.

Working with a Senegalese colleague, she also has shared her team's findings with community members within the gold-mining villages and led training workshops for miners on the dangers of mercury use.

Source: https://www.duke.edu/People from two indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon who live close to the country's longest oil pipeline have mercury, cadmium and lead in their bodies at concentrations that could be harmful to their health. This was the conclusion of a study carried out jointly by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) and the Peruvian National Center for Occupational Health and Environmental Health Protection, with the support of the Peruvian Ministry of Health.

The objective of the study, which has been published in the journal Environmental Health, was to determine the concentrations of four metals (mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic) in people living in two indigenous Kukama communities--San Pedro and Cuninico--in the Loreto region of Peru. In 2014, the area was affected by two major oil spills from the North Peruvian pipeline.

"In spite of the fact that many people in the area have been exposed to contamination caused by extractive activities, there are almost no studies assessing the effects of the contamination on the health of the people living close to the extraction zones, who are frequently exposed to oil spills", explains ISGlobal researcher Cristina O'Callaghan Gordo, the lead author of the study.

The samples studied were collected 13 and 16 months after the spills from a group of 130 people. Subsequent analysis showed that 50% of the population studied had concentrations of mercury in urine higher than the threshold limit value set by the country's Ministry of Health. This percentage increased to 64% in children under 10 years of age.

O'Callaghan Gordo considers the findings to be "a cause for concern because exposure to mercury is associated with neurological, psychological, renal, respiratory and cardiovascular problems". Crude oil can contain mercury and other metals, and high levels of these contaminants have been reported in the environment and in aquatic organisms in areas surrounding oil extraction sites and areas affected by oil spills.

In 17% of the same population, the authors found urine concentrations of cadmium higher than the recommended safe threshold value. Exposure to cadmium increases the risk of kidney damage, including chronic renal failure, and can also cause lung, prostate and kidney cancers.

In the case of lead, no safe blood level has been identified, and 19% of the children aged under 10 years in this study had blood concentrations of lead associated with a high health risk according to the reference levels established by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lead exposure is linked to neurological disorders and behavioral abnormalities, including reduced intellectual capacity.

Levels of arsenic considered harmful to health were not found in any of the participants.

"The oil spills may be the source of exposure to these metals, although other sources cannot be ruled out, particularly in the case of mercury, which is also associated with other common activities in the Peruvian Amazon, such as deforestation and gold mining", adds the ISGlobal researcher.

Manolis Kogevinas, the Head of ISGlobal's Cancer Programme, who also participated in the study, recommends that future research should focus on "identifying and quantifying the sources of exposure" and suggests that research on the impact of oil spills should start "as soon as possible after the spill occurs to collect data that better reflects exposure to oil-related contaminants".Lymphedema is fluid retention in the tissue caused by damage to the lymphatic system and is one of the most serious side-effects of cancer operations. The problems caused by the swelling can range from severe pain or skin infections right through to loss of limb function and they detract greatly from a patient's quality of life. The conventional forms of treatment are only partially effective and the results temporary. Researchers at the Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) at MedUni Vienna/Vienna General Hospital are now refining two innovative techniques for the effective treatment of lymphedema.

Surgical reconstruction of damaged lymph vessels is challenging, because they can be less than 0.7 mm in size and cannot be sutured using conventional methods. However, new developments in so-called supermicrosurgery mean that it is now possible to make surgical sutures measuring just 0.3 - 0.8 mm. This requires high-performance microscopes and the use of fluorescent liquid and fluorescence cameras.

Fine instruments and a steady hand

Against this background, two techniques have now been established for treating lymphedema effectively: firstly, lymph channels that are still intact can be connected to adjacent veins by suturing them together. This means that the lymphatic fluid, which would otherwise permeate into the tissue, can be dissipated via the blood circulation.

Secondly, lymph nodes and their surrounding tissue can be removed from healthy parts of the body (groin, armpit, neck) and transplanted into the areas where lymph nodes have been removed or damaged as a result of cancer treatment. There they are not only able to absorb lymphatic fluid but also to release growth factors to stimulate the formation of new lymph vessels.

Thinner than a hair

Christine Radtke, Head of the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at MedUni Vienna/Vienna General Hospital and expert in lymphatic surgery, is successfully using, researching and refining the technique in Vienna General Hospital. Says Christine Radtke: "These operations require a very experienced microsurgeon using specialised instruments and a modern, high-performance microscope. The suture material is thinner than a hair and the needle so fine that you cannot see it with the naked eye."

Operation worthwhile

In both techniques, which can be combined if required, the lymph channels are marked. This shows where the lymph channels run so that any breaks are clearly visible. Says Radtke: "These lymphatic surgery techniques are still relatively unknown, even in the specialist world. However the procedure is worthwhile, since patients describe immediate pain reduction and a significant improvement in their everyday life." In order to make these new techniques available to more patients, Radtke and her team are working hard to extend them and are conducting several trials.

Underestimated condition

According to estimates, approximately 200 million patients worldwide suffer from lymphedema. It is assumed there are around 30,000 in Austria. A distinction is made between congenital (primary) lymphedema and secondary lymphedema, that is to say lymphedema that starts during a person's life as a result of accidents, illnesses or inflammation.

Secondary lymphedema is one of the commonest and most serious side effects of surgery and radiotherapy for breast and prostate cancer and also for sarcoma. During the course of treatment, lymph nodes and/or vessels are often removed or damaged by radiotherapy or chemotherapy. As a result, the lymphatic fluid can no longer be evacuated and therefore builds up in the tissue. Since some lymph vessels are less than 0.7 mm in diameter, it was hitherto impossible to reconstruct them surgically.

The standard conventional treatments for lymphedema are lymphatic drainage, a massage that has to be performed up to twice a day, since its effect is short-lived, the wearing of compression bandages and liposuction. All these measures restrict a patient's everyday life, only help to a limited extent and do not prevent the recurrence of lymphedema.Batman: The World is the Caped Crusader as seen through international eyes

Batman: The World Introduces new heroes and villains from around the globeWASHINGTON - Fatty was ready to fight the government. His backpack was full of signed petitions. Instead of his usual uniform of heavy-metal T-shirt and rubber gloves, he was wearing a cream-colored sweater. It completely covered his tattoos, the art form that was the reason he was here, at the D.C. Department of Public Health.

"We're not going to take this," he had been saying for a week. "If this is the law, it means war."

"This" was a 59-page document of new regulations aimed at the city's body art establishments. This was of particular interest to Fatty, the owner of Fatty's Tattoos & Piercings in Dupont Circle and on H Street. In his view, the regulations were "madness being rammed down our throats."

And that was why, on a February Monday, he had come downtown to contest them. At the security desk, he signed his legal name: Matt Jessup. He was followed by the city's other tattoo parlor owners, who had stacks of petitions signed by their customers, too. On any other day they would be competitors; now they were united in frustration.

Fatty pushed the button for the elevator that would take them up to a conference room. City officials had agreed to hear their concerns. Again they rehearsed their arguments over their main point of woe: Toilets.

The new regulations stated that any establishment with more than five body artists must have two places for the employees to relieve themselves.

"I have a 20-year-lease. I don't have an option to build a bathroom in my space," said Matthew Knopp, owner of Tattoo Paradise.

"The cost of building a bathroom and shutting down to build could cost you tens of thousands of dollars," Fatty said.

Knopp shook his head, annoyed. "We have operated 15, 20 years with no issues whatsoever and no problems, and all of a sudden they're like, 'I think you need this for your business and this for your business?' "

"Twenty-five years in business and I've never had a backup at the bathroom," Fatty said. The elevator door opened. A man in a suit walked out, and the doors closed before the tattoo artists could step in.

"Even the elevators here are dysfunctional!" Fatty said. He laughed and rolled up his sweater sleeves to reveal the skull inked on his arm.

Fatty is not fat. He picked up the name as a child in Silver Spring, Maryland, and it stuck, even when he grew up to be, at 45 years old, 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds.

"A lean, mean 210 pounds," he said the evening before his big meeting.

Fatty has been the subject of many media interviews since 2012, when the D.C. Council passed an act requiring the Department of Health to draw up regulations for the city's body-art establishments. Fatty supported that law. He considers himself an expert in "cross-contamination prevention." Tattoo artists who don't follow stringent safety practices just make a bad name for the industry, he thought.

Then the first draft of the regulations was published. It included a provision mandating a 24-hour waiting period between the time a customer asks for a tattoo and the actual inking.

As the tattoo industry aesthetic has evolved from biker gang to Pinterest-chic, there are probably many people walking around with infinity knots or the ever-present "This too shall pass" tattoos and wishing that they had followed the mantra of "think before you ink."

But the proposal was decried as government overreach and quickly shot down. The department came up with a new draft in 2014, but again the body-art community, with Fatty leading the charge, found reasons to rally against it during the public comment period. The department tried again in 2015, with the same result. But this time, in 2017, Fatty and the other tattoo shop owners said they didn't hear about the new, fourth version until after the comment period had ended. Now, the rules were in force.

Fatty found them arbitrary and confusing. There was the number-of-bathrooms problem. The section decreeing that waiting areas should have "an average illumination value of ten (10) foot-candles of light, but never less than seven and a half (7.5) foot-candles of light." The line that had been intended to say that artists should employ only disposable "single-use" needles, but instead said "single needles." It was probably just a typo, but if artists were to follow the regulation word-for-word, then technically they would be allowed to give customers tattoos with one needle at a time, resulting in the line-drawing type of tattoo that most would call a "prison tat."

Fatty logged on to FattysTattoos.com and typed a letter to his "friends and fans." "No More Body Art in DC? We Need Your Help!" he wrote.

Petitions were signed. The meeting was set up.

The District, he acknowledged, isn't known for its tattoo industry. If you want a skull or a bird or the word "MOM" on your arm forever, there are only about a dozen places to get it done. It's an uptight town. But that was all the more reason for him to fight for body-art businesses. Think, he said, of "all the people sitting in soul-sucking office environments. But then they look down and see the tattoo, and they remember who they are."

- - -

Fatty took his place at the conference table and studied the four representatives from the Department of Health at the other end. One appeared to have pierced ears. That counted as body art, he thought. He couldn't see any tattoos.

"I am going to record this meeting," announced Erica Smith, an attorney from the Institute for Justice who had come to assist the tattoo artists. She had discussed helping them file a lawsuit - Fatty vs. the District of Columbia, the court documents might say.

Then a department attorney informer her that she could not record the meeting. They began to argue - and that's when the department's public information officer asked this reporter to leave the room. The meeting was not open to the media, he said.

An hour and a half later, Fatty and his allies emerged. Smiling.

"They earnestly took our input," Fatty said. "They're going to revisit some things."

He was in awe. "They seemed flexible and amenable, and they made it clear that their goal is not to put us out of business," he said.

The regulators, according to the tattoo artists, had promised to visit each shop and make exceptions where they were warranted. They said they would work to clarify confusing parts of the regulations.

"The two sides came together," said Knopp.

"There was a respectful back and forth," said Eric Doyle, co-owner of Globe Electric tattoos. "It was just shy of touchy-feely."

"By the end, we were almost hugging," said Fatty. "I'm kidding - don't write that."

Five years of fighting, and now it turned out that maybe these regulations weren't such a big deal. They would have to see what happened when the regulators came to visit, Fatty said, but he had told the attorney he probably wouldn't need her services after all.

He shook hands with the other artists and headed back to his shop. It was something like the tattoo you might read on someone's arm: This too shall pass.High intellect or just another angry white guy? Photo: Rene Johnston/Toronto Star via Getty Images

After more than a year of gathering online celebrity, Jordan Peterson, the Canadian psychologist, YouTube star, and culture warrior, has finally burst into the cultural mainstream. Already in 2018 theres been a viral, adversarial interview with Channel 4s Cathy Newman (written up in The Atlantic), a sympathetic profile in the Chronicle of Higher Education, a fawning David Brooks column, an interview in New York, a Tyler Cowen blog post naming him the Wests most influential public intellectual, and three denunciations from the socialist left, two of which liken his views to those of the Norwegian mass shooter Anders Breivik. This flurry of publicity is well-timed: Petersons new book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos, is currently the most sold and second-most read book on Amazon.

Peterson was a relatively obscure professor at the University of Toronto until September 2016, when, in a series of YouTube videos, he criticized a Canadian human-rights bill outlawing discrimination on the basis of gender identity for being a politically correct restriction on free speech. This launched a familiar sort of controversy, as the left labeled him a bigot and the right embraced him as a martyr. Peterson embraced the part  he escalated his rhetorical war on the campus left (which he derides as a neo-Marxist assault on Western civilization) and began to attract a large and loyal following on Patreon and YouTube, mostly among young men drawn to his stern self-help advice, polemical assaults on social-justice warriors, and expansive lectures on subjects such as the Bible, Jungian archetypes, and Soviet totalitarianism. (Full disclosure: I interviewed him in January 2017 for a profile that never came off.)

Peterson is now a fully fledged cultural phenomenon, and its as difficult as ever to know what to make of him. Is the guy a genius, a crank, or a dangerous authoritarian? As a headline for the Globe and Mail recently put it: high intellect, or just another angry white guy?

12 Rules for Life is, as its title suggests, a self-help book composed of Petersons rules for living. Most are, on the surface at least, commonsensical injunctions about personal responsibility. Rule one is Stand up straight with your shoulders back; Rule three, Make friends with people who want the best for you; Rule eight, Tell the truth  or at least dont lie. Others are more whimsical: Rule 11 is Do not bother children when they are skateboarding, which, it turns out, is a way of saying that risky play is an important way for kids to develop and test their own limits. (A big theme: Overprotection leads to underdevelopment.)

If youve never listened to Peterson talk, this might all sound relatively conventional. Its not. Each rule is accompanied by a lengthy exegesis in which Peterson unfolds his sprawling theories about nearly everything, digging beneath the surface of his rules to argue that they reflect, variously, our biological evolution, the accumulated wisdom of the worlds religions and mythologies, and the lessons of Western literature. The range of Petersons references is at times bewildering, and reflective of the man himself: He is, on the one hand, a psychologist and psychotherapist with a decent grounding in the biological sciences and long clinical experience, which tends to foster a certain pragmatism. On the other hand, he is an autodidact from the Canadian boondocks who, haunted as a teenager by vivid nightmares of a nuclear apocalypse, gave himself a Great Books education in order to cope with his existential dread and obsession with the nature of evil  the sort of person who looks for the meaning of life in Dostoevsky.

The result is that 12 Rules for Life features an eclectic mix of influences, synthesized in a sometimes fascinating and sometimes confusing manner in order to ground Petersons more pragmatic advice. The most important of these influences is the Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung, who posited a specieswide collective unconscious populated by archetypes, or deeply rooted characters and symbolic motifs that reappear in art, dreams, myths, and religions. Peterson combines the idea of the archetype with modern evolutionary science to argue that mythological and religious stories have evolved over thousands of years to express, in dramatic form, fundamental truths about what it means to be human. Thus traditional, commonsense morality is, for Peterson, not only pragmatically but existentially and metaphysically true. Rule seven, for instance, is Pursue what is meaningful, not what is expedient, which advises readers about the benefits of sacrificing short-term pleasures in the pursuit of more difficult yet rewarding goals. Simple enough. But to explain Rule seven, Peterson goes back to the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis. The brothers are commanded to sacrifice a portion of their labor to God; Peterson argues that this represents humanitys real historical discovery that present sacrifice leads to future reward. And when God is unhappy with Cains sacrifice, Cain grows jealous of his more successful brother and kills him  an archetypal example, in Petersons view, of how our own inadequacies lead to resentment that causes us to strike out at others.

Peterson has flourished on YouTube because he is an excellent lecturer: In speech, his tendency to pursue interesting digressions seems natural, his emotional authenticity is contagious, and he has a personal charisma that can lend seemingly anodyne bits of advice (dont lie, clean your room) the authority of divine injunctions. On the page, however, his flights lack the same coherence and emotional depth. Still, he produces nuggets of real insight. For instance, a favorite theme of Petersons is the dominance hierarchy, or the stratified social arrangement in which we all inevitably live. He has a riff, reproduced in chapter one, about how hierarchy emerged way back in our phylogenetic tree. He cites as evidence the fact that humans and lobsters, which diverged perhaps 800 million years ago, use similar neurochemical systems to track their social position: a high-status lobster, like a high-status human, will have elevated levels of serotonin, which translates in both animals into greater calm, confidence, and subjective well-being. Our brains, in other words, have evolved in hierarchies over a very long period of time, and much of our behavior is concerned with maximizing our position within them. All that makes perfect sense, given how much our ancestors ability to survive and reproduce would have depended on their status. Part of what Peterson is saying is that we have to understand our own actions and motivations in the context of our existence within the dominance hierarchy; part of it  and this is where he sometimes gets himself into trouble  is to kick at the left for a supposedly naive, egalitarian social constructivism.

This is one of those arguments of Petersons that critics tend to ridicule  he justifies existing structures of social dominance by deferring to the hard-wiring of ancient crustaceans, in the words of John Semley. Yet Petersons point is simply, inarguably true. Nonhuman primates have hierarchies, birds have hierarchies, revolutionary egalitarian societies have hierarchies; hierarchy isnt going away. The real political questions are, which hierarchies are legitimate and fair? Which ones incentivize good conduct and allow individuals and societies to flourish? Which ones minimize suffering? Its an almost banal point that can nonetheless provoke violent reactions, which is something of a theme with Peterson: Despite his eccentricities, he gets some big things right that others insist on getting wrong. (For instance, though social-justice ideology isnt leading to the gulag, its worst forms have an obvious family relation to communism, complete with internal purges and hostility to dissent.) He is a specialist in baroque arguments for moral intuitions that often lack articulate public defenders.

For, in fact, beneath all the talk of the Bible and Jung and Being with a capital B, the rules and lessons in 12 Rules for Life are fairly simple. Petersons basic points are that life is hard, you will suffer, and in order to handle that suffering, you will have to be prepared. Preparing means taking responsibility for yourself. Thats hard, too, so you may try to avoid it. You may use all manner of evasions and rationalizations to convince yourself that things will sort themselves out on their own, or that others will bail you out, or that if they dont, its their fault and not yours. But thats a lie. So stop lying. Accept responsibility for your fate. Its a harsh line of thought. Its also good practical advice.

Some will dismiss Petersons personal-responsibility gospel as bootstrapping pablum, a way of deflecting attention from structural and political problems by throwing everything back onto the individual. Theres something to the accusation: Peterson inveighs against attempts to change the world as, essentially, a way for people to distract themselves from the much harder work of changing themselves. Dont reorganize the state, he writes, until you have ordered your own experience. Have some humility. If you cannot bring peace to your household, how dare you try to rule a city? This is obviously a limited social philosophy  even if your goal is to promote individual flourishing, some political arrangements do so more effectively than others, as Petersons own strident anti-communism implicitly recognizes. But as a personal habit of mind, its worth remembering that you are just one dumb person among millions who is unlikely to have the final answers for anything.

For others, Petersons advice will seem obvious, and they may wonder why anyone needs to say it at all. Shouldnt everybody already know that they need to be responsible? But Peterson has become a celebrity by telling young people to get their act together, which suggests that there are a lot of them who need to hear it. In a society that tends to eschew limits and presents an illusion of infinite choice, he offers a sense of direction, order, and authority  the antidote to chaos promised in the title of his book  that many frankly lack. Its religion for atheists; Protestant Christianity remixed for the age of YouTube and Reddit. And as Petersons wild popularity shows, there are plenty of people out there looking for a prophet.Cryptocurrency has revolutionized the way we transact value, invest our savings and raise capital with its decentralised digital cash system. Blockchain technology is a once-in-a-lifetime invention; never before in history have we been presented with such a breakthrough in financial technology. In 2018, entrepreneurs are well positioned to become early adopters of blockchain technology.

Cryptocurrency has disrupted the way early stage companies raise capital. With initial coin offerings, startups around the world can raise money quickly and cheaply from a wide pool of global investors. The valuation of a company is almost immediately reflected by the market, a process that has traditionally been challenging for early stage businesses. Shares are issued as tokens and tradable almost immediately, bringing large amounts of liquidity to the company.

Related: IPOs Are Boring But You Must Keep an Eye on These 9 Initial Coin Offerings

This new approach to raising capital has changed the world and enabled the best technical talent to build their companies at high speed. In 2014, a teenager from Canada called Vitalik Buterin raised money for his startup, Ethereum, through an initial coin offering. He wanted to improve on Bitcoin's blockchain and create a platform for people to build unstoppable applications. With just a whitepaper and a vision, he was able to successfully raise $18 million for his new blockchain, which was valued at over $100 billion as of January 2018.

2. Transacting value

Cryptocurrency enables us to transact value between peers without a centralized authority. It provides a cheaper, faster and more efficient alternative to traditional payment networks. As a company, accepting cryptocurrency payments is becoming increasingly efficient, saving on fees and bringing faster settlement. Soon, startups will no longer need to go through the long process of setting up a business bank account to receive and distribute funds. In 2014, Overstock.com became the first retailer to accept bitcoin, receiving over 800 orders worth $126,000 in bitcoin in the first 22 hours. It has since amassed a $403,000 portfolio of cryptocurrency.

Related: 5 Essential Podcasts for Entrepreneurs Serious About Cryptocurrency

3. Investing for the future

For entrepreneurs, cryptocurrency may be the investment opportunity of a lifetime. Never before in history have retail investors had investment access to high growth early stage companies. Traditionally, venture capital funds and private angel investors have held monopolies on access to investment in the world's best technical talent. Cryptocurrency provides a gateway for anyone in the world to invest in the world's most exciting technology, allowing retail investors to own a basket of high growth companies. For example, through the decentralized method of blockchain investment, teenager Erik Finnman was able to invest in Bitcoin in 2011, becoming a Bitcoin millionaire at age 18. These types of investment stories would not be possible with traditional private venture capital fundraising.

Related: Why You Can't Afford to Ignore Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain Anymore

4. Developing on the blockchain

The blockchain offers powerful infrastructure for companies to run their technology and create entirely new business models in a trusted way without a centralized authority. Blockchain technology is already revolutionizing the way startups create value. The Ethereum platform allows companies to build unstoppable blockchain applications quickly and for free. One example of a company leveraging the Ethereum blockchain is OmiseGO, a payments company that is using blockchain to provide banking services for the world's 2 billion unbanked population. Blockchain technology is a cost-efficient way of building decentralized applications that can scale to a global population.

Related: 6 Cryptocurrencies You Should Know About (and None of Them Are Bitcoin)

5. Joining the blockchain community

The blockchain community offers access to some of the world's best entrepreneurs, who are actively investing, advising and building upon the blockchain. Telegram, Facebook, WeChat, Slack and WhatsApp groups have proved popular in building communities of decentralized blockchain investors who can communicate with each other on a daily basis. Many large investments in early stage technology companies can be coordinated within minutes, a process that would traditionally take months in traditional venture capital. For example, in 2017, Brave's Basic Attention Token sale sold out of its $35 million offering within 30 seconds. The blockchain community offers a strong sense of purpose with all members committed to a common goal of advancing blockchain technology to global adoption.

Related: How Digital Wallets and Mobile Payments Are Evolving and What It Means for You

Cryptocurrency provides a platform for entrepreneurs to raise capital quickly, cheaply and efficiently. Entrepreneurs can transact value through the blockchain at high speed with limited setup costs and invest in high growth technology companies at an early stage. Platforms like Ethereum allow entrepreneurs to build decentralized applications to a global audience for free. The blockchain community offers access to some of the top entrepreneurs, engineers and investors in the world and in 2018, cryptocurrency will continue to provide a viable means for entrepreneurs to create value in the world.

Related:

How Debit Cards Are Leading Cryptocurrencies Towards Mainstream Adoption

5 Ways Cryptocurrency Can Help Entrepreneurs in 2018

Should You Still Invest in Bitcoin in 2018?



Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved



This article originally appeared on entrepreneur.com

Entrepreneur, along with Energage, an employee engagement platform, is on the hunt for high-performance cultures across America to be part of our third-annual Top Company Cultures list

No, we arent looking for businesses that brag about their nap pods, kegs or Ping Pong tournaments. Rather, our Top Company Cultures list celebrates cultures that help employees excel by encouraging them to take their career to the next level, fosters innovation, exceeds expectations and gets results.

Related: The 153 Best Company Cultures in America (and What You Can Learn From Them)

Our Top Company Cultures list dives into four integral areas of a business: the basics (including work-life balance, training and expectations), engagement, leadership and the health of the organization.

Does your company take these facets seriously? If so, we want to hear from you.

Company requirements:

At least 35 employees

Founded before Feb. 2016

Currently led by the founder, who has at least 10 percent ownership of company. (The founder doesn't need to be active on a day-to-day basis, but should have some role in the company, such as board member or advisor.)

Headquartered in the U.S. (If you are a global company, we will only survey your U.S. employees)

Company email addresses only (no Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo, etc.)

Franchises should only count and survey their corporate employees

To get started, just head over to our application page and begin answering the preliminary questions. (It should take five minutes tops.) If you meet our minimum requirements, our partner Energage will contact you to set up the process for surveying your employees. Dont worry, during the entire process, survey staffers will be there to answer any questions you may have. (We also have a handy FAQ section, too.)

Related: Learn the 4 Principles That Helped This Virtual Company Become One of the Best Cultures in America

Those who make the list will be featured on Entrepreneur.com and in Entrepreneur magazine, the premiere entrepreneurial media brand in the country. Not only will this provide an amazing opportunity to let the world know about your standout culture, but it can also be used as a recruiting tool, help build brand awareness and boost employee morale.

The submission is completely free, and all participating companies will receive a complimentary Survey SnapShot which includes a summary of your organizations overall health, highlights of your high-performance culture and insights into suggested improvements. You also have the opportunity to upgrade with Energage to receive a more in-depth analysis of your survey results. (This is completely optional and will not affect your scoring or ranking).

The last day to apply for the list is March 16 and the list will be published this fall on Entrepreneur.

Head over to the application to get started!

Related:

Apply Now for Our Top Company Cultures List

Why a 'Living and Breathing' Company Culture Isn't Always a Good Thing

6 Companies Reveal How Their Unique Cultures Make Them a Success



Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved



This article originally appeared on entrepreneur.com

In his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump described how, in the past year, the United States has endured floods and fires and storms.

He did not mention how climate change might have had a hand in said disasters.

He did say America has ended the war on beautiful clean coal. Coal  in sharp-edged, shiny chunks  might be considered beautiful. But it never burns clean, and taking it out of the ground is a very dirty business indeed.

So there we have it.

For an alternative viewpoint, you could go to Western Connecticut State University in Danbury this Wednesday  and the following four Wednesdays  to hear what people who have actually thought about climate change have to say about the many ways it will change life on earth.

The lectures will be held at 7 p.m. in Room 125 of the universitys Science Building on the Midtown campus. For the full schedule, go the universitys website at www.wcsu.edu and click on the Events listing.

Mitch Wagener, the chairman of the universitys Jane Goodall Center for Excellence in Environmental Studies, has organized the lecture series, which is now in its third year.

And unlike the president and his cabinet members  who are, in either their words or actions, climate-change deniers  Wagener believes there is a sense of urgency surrounding the issue.

The longer we wait to start addressing these problems, the more drastic their effects will be, Wagener said. And the longer the wait, he said, the less chance that human intervention will have much effect on the changes to come.

We saw these effects in the hurricanes that struck Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands this year  the costliest series of storms in U.S. history.

There was also the never-ending series of wildfires and mudslides in California.

Western sociology professor Carina Bandhauer, who will speak at the lecture series on Feb. 28, said the global structures holding societies together might already be stressed. Add to this the effect of entire cultures being displaced by drought or rising sea levels, and it gets to be ugly, she said.

Chris Collibee, spokesman for the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, said those changes will be felt as well.

A recent study released by the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation at the University of Connecticut predicts that Long Island Sound will rise by 20 inches by 2050, and continue in the decade to follow.

Thats a lot of roads in the state that will be flooding that arent flooding now, Collibee said.

Other studies show that the states forests might change owing to climate change, with northern species like sugar maples giving way to a more southern forest.

Theres a lot of businesses in the state that depend on fall foliage, Collibee said. Climate change could potentially impact them.

At the ground level, a warming climate may also change the microbial life of the soil, said Hannah Reynolds, a microbiologist at Westerns Department of Biological and Environmental Studies.

Reynolds, who will speak at the lecture series on Feb. 21, said there is evidence that a warming climate is now allowing microbial life in the far northern tundra to flourish longer each year. That means those microbes can feed more on the plant life in that vast region, and, in turn, release more carbon dioxide  one of the gases that fuels climate change.

How does society respond to these changes, especially when the people doing the governing are consciously blind to them?

Kaylah Leonard, a Western senior who will speak at the lecture series with Bandhauer on Feb. 28, has written her senior thesis on social apathy regarding climate change and which tipping points might make people more engaged with the issue.

On a state level, Collibee said, Connecticut is one of 15 states and Puerto Rico that have joined the U.S. Climate Alliance, which had affirmed the goals of the 2015 Paris agreement  goals the Trump administration walked away from.

Wagener said local efforts people can take part in, too. Installing solar panels and driving electric cars are small things that, cumulatively, can help.

There is also the personal level to consider.

I have a three-month old grandson, Wagener said. Everything I can do now is for him, as far as Im concerned.

Contact Robert Miller at earthmattersrgm@gmail.comEast African regional legislators have given themselves powers to determine their pay, amidst objections from the council of ministers.

On Wednesday in Kampala, members of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) voted overwhelmingly in support of a motion that gives them powers to determine their own benefits, including salaries and other emoluments.

EALA assembly

Ugandas Susan Nakawuki moved the motion to operationalise the financial and administrative autonomy granted to the assembly two years ago by the East African Community (EAC) council of ministers.

Nakawukis motion was seconded by Rwandas Oda Gasinzigwa amid protestations from Ugandas state minister for East African Community affairs, Julius Maganda, who is the current chair of the council of ministers.

Parliaments around the globe have transformed into fully fledged independent institutions with unfettered mandates capable of holding the executive to account and to carry out the oversight roles without undue interference; hence, there is compelling argument that the assembly should discharge its functions without the interference of the council [of ministers] or secretariat to allow overall good parliamentary governance, Nakawuki told the sssembly.

She based her motion on two studies, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) study group on the administration and financing of parliaments done in 2005, and the recent CPA benchmarks for the democratic legislatures of the Caribbean, Americans and the Atlantic region.

Each of these studies contains instructive recommendations for the independent governance of modern parliaments and promoting reformation of the management structures of parliaments to provide for services and funding entitlements, Nakawuki said.

Abdikadir Aden (Kenya) said the mandate of the assembly was key in the integration process, adding that autonomy in terms of administrative ability to organise its work remained fundamental.

At its 33rd meeting, the EAC council of ministers resolved in March 2016 to grant EALA and the East African Court of Justice (EACJ) financial and administrative autonomy.

Maganda, however, argued that since the matter of autonomy touched on the operations of the community, the motion should have been delayed until after the next meeting of the Council of Ministers.

It is true we resolved to permit and give the assembly some bit of autonomy in finance and administration but the council of ministers is still conducting a study on which areas of autonomy can be given to the assembly, and, those that can be still held by the secretariat and council, Maganda told The Observer on Wednesday.

Maganda stated that the EAC Secretariat was directed to come up with a paper defining the scope of the autonomy from its perspective.

If the council of ministers allows the assembly to go on without the report [from the study], it can create a conflict. The council is going to debate [the resolution of the assembly] in April ahead of the new budget because the 2018/19 EAC budget should have the aspect of implementing the directive of the autonomy, Maganda said.

However, Mukasa Mbidde (Uganda), a member of the EALA Commission, told The Observer that the commission will go ahead to implement the resolution. We are going to sit and see how we are going to implement it, Mbidde said.

sadabkk@observer.ugSpaceX will launch the two test satellites for their Skylink global 4400+ satellite internet constellation this week.

Microsat 2a and 2b, are secondary payloads on a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, due for launch on Saturday.

Both of these satellites will be deployed in one mission aboard a SpaceX Falcon-9 v1.2 launch vehicle into an orbital plane of 514 km circular at 97.44 degrees inclination. After insertion, the satellite orbits will be raised to the desired mission altitude of 1125 km circular. The designed lifetime of each satellite is six months. If this lifetime is exceeded, SpaceX plans to continue operation until such time as the primary mission goals can no longer be met, at which point the spacecraft will be deorbited. Both Microsat-2a and Microsat-2b are identical in their construction and operation.

The primary structure for the Microsat-2a and -2b test spacecraft will be a box design measuring 1.1 m  0.7 m  0.7 m and carries the spacecraft flight computer, power system components, attitude determination and control components, propulsion components, GPS receiver, and broadband, telemetry, and command receivers and transmitters. The primary bus is mounted on the payload truss system, which also carries communications panels, inter-satellite optical link transmitters and receivers, star trackers, and a telemetry antenna. There are two 2 m  8 m solar panels. Each demonstration spacecraft has a total mass of approximately 400 kg. The attitude of each spacecraft is 3-axis stabilized, and is dynamically controlled over each orbit to maintain attitude position for two pointing modes of operation: broadband antenna (antennas to nadir for testing) and solar array (solar arrays facing sun for charging). Power is provided by solar panels designed to deliver sufficient power at the predicted end of spacecraft life to not impair any test objectives. The Thermal Control System ensures that components are kept within operational temperature ranges.

In addition to proving out the development of the satellite bus and related subsystems, the test program for the Microsat-2a and -2b spacecraft will also validate the design of a phased array broadband antenna communications platform (primary payload) that will be included in the final spacecraft design for the proposed NGSO constellation. SpaceX intends to test the Microsat-2a and -2b communication paths utilizing five broadband array test ground stations located in the western United States, as well as three transportable ground stations that will be deployed near the fixed ground station locations.

Spanish govt Paz civil/military radar sat, built by @AirbusSpace, is readied for airlift from Spain to Calif/VAFB for Jan 30 @SpaceX mission. 1,400-kg Paz to launch w/ 2 SpaceX microsats that will demo future broadband constellation & provide ITU registration (BIU). pic.twitter.com/Ve6xMTgddX  Peter B. de Selding (@pbdes) December 19, 2017

Static fire test of Falcon 9 completetargeting February 17 launch of PAZ from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.  SpaceX (@SpaceX) February 11, 2018HARTFORD  The states third annual attempt to boil down academic success to a single number shows progress being made in the college readiness arena but on the reading, math and science front, not so much.

Nearly three quarters of districts and charter schools statewide  146 out of 201  scored worse on this years index than they did a year ago.

Individual student improvement over time  something the state pushed to include in its Next Generation Accountability system  is what in many cases held schools and school districts from seeing overall improvement, state officials said.

Released recently by the state Department of Education, the states grade, or index, remains flat, rising 1/10of 1 percent to 73.2 points in 2016-17.

Each school and district also earned an index number based on the same compilation of 12 indicators. Included are not only scores on state standardized tests but absentee rates, graduation rates, access to arts and physical fitness.

What is measured is how well schools are living up to goals set for them by the state.

Locally, New Haven, East Haven, West Haven and Branford stayed within one point of their scores from the previous year. North Haven showed an 8.5 point decline from 2015-16 to 2016-17, although it still has one of the highest scores in the immediate region with 77 points, comparable to the score of 76.1 points in Branford and 80.7 points in Madison.

For New Haven, the overall 0.3 point decrease was interpreted as growing pains for a relatively new state measure.

As this relatively new measure gets analyzed over time it is not surprising that there would be some adjustments in the results similar to that which was seen in prior state testing. This high stakes test and data reporting report, while required by the state, is by no means the only measures used to track the academic growth of our students and it is merely one of many factors to consider, said New Haven Public Schools Chief Operating Officer Will Clark in an emailed statement.

Deeper review of this data is useful to confirm areas of challenge as well as many areas of success and progress which can be studied to zero in on best practices which can be scaled and replicated, he said.

In addition, 16 schools on a watch list for poor performance gained enough ground to leave the list. Two of them were from New Haven.

We are proud of Quinnipiac and John Martinez Schools for their results. Through the hard work of the students, school leaders, staff and parents, these two schools have been removed from the list of focus schools for math. This was the first opportunity for these schools to be moved off the list, said interim Superintendent of Schools Reginald Mayo in an emailed statement. The academic growth and positive environment at these schools is encouraging as it is demonstrative of sustained improvement over multiple years.

Ajit Gopalakrishnan, chief performance officer for the state Department of Education, said the state was pleased that more students are taking Advanced Placement courses and tests. All juniors now take the SAT as their state assessment.

Overall, some indicators are showing positive movement and some are not, Gopalakrishnan said. We know there some areas where we have a lot of work to do.

On the positive side was a 3.6 percent jump in the number of high needs students  English language learners, students with disabilities or from low income families  who graduated in six years or fewer.

Physical fitness levels also jumped 35 percent because there was more participation, changing the points earned, state officials said.

More Information District 15-16 index 16-17 index Ansonia 65.7 64.9 Bethany 77.1 69.3 Branford 76.8 76.1 Cheshire 83.6 82.0 East Haven 85.5 77.0 Derby 63.0 63.3 Guilford 85.7 84.2 Hamden 70.2 72.0 Madison 81.8 80.7 Milford 78.1 80.5 New Haven 64.3 64.0 North Branford 79.5 76.9 North Haven 85.5 77.0 Orange 77.0 81.0 Region 5 83.1 81.1 Seymour 76.1 77.0 Shelton 77.6 76.4 Wallingford 76.1 74.6 West Haven 64.2 65.0 Woodbridge 88.9 77.0 Schools of Distinction A state designation for schools based on overall performance, growth or improvement, 124 schools have been deemed Schools of Distinction. Included on the list are: Booker T. Washington Charter Academy, New Haven Mary T. Murphy School, Branford Chapman School, Cheshire Lewin G. Joel Jr. School, Clinton Calvin Leete School, Guilford Guilford Lakes School, Guilford Melissa Jones School, Guilford Bear Path School, Hamden J. Milton Jeffrey Elementary School, Madison Kennedy School, Milford Green Acres Elementary School, North Haven Peck Place, Orange Chatfield LoPresti School, Seymour Booth Hill School, Shelton Sunnyside School, Shelton. Forest School, West Haven See More Collapse

On the downside was some backsliding on the percentage of growth, or how well underperforming students do from one year to the next in matching state averages. In language arts, the growth slipped 8.5 percent and in math, 3.7 percent.

Growth carries the largest weight in the index and in many cases is what caused many school districts to decline, Gopalakrishnan said.

We have a long way to go there, Gopalakrishnan said. Growth is where the (state public school) system is putting a lot of its emphasis.

In measuring growth, the district excludes students who relocate to new districts  2,194 between the two years  so the same students are being compared one year with the next.

Also down were science scores. The index dropped nearly 3 points statewide.

The federal government requires the state to compile the index and use the information to help schools to improve education for children, but no longer collects the data as it did under No Child Left Behind.This is a love story about three guys and their limitless affection for three pizza places in New Haven.

You can guess the names of those places: Frank Pepes Pizzeria Napoletana, Sallys Apizza and Modern Apizza.

The three guys are filmmaker Gorman Bechard, New Haven historian Colin Caplan and musician Dean Falcone. All of them are locals, so they know their pizza.

Together, using the kind of care that goes into making a traditional New Haven pizza, they are making a documentary called Pizza, A Love Story.

This project has been 10 years in the making. But theyre getting close  Bechard swears they are  to wrapping it up.

I met up with the trio last Wednesday afternoon at Modern Apizza. There, as we savored four pizzas, I listened to them bubble over about their beloved pies, the colorful history of those three places and the guys passion for making a film that gets the story right.

I could have stayed there all day, listening to their stories and eating with them.

Bechard had suggested the interview because he wants to tell people how they can help get the film completed and receive some on-screen credit and souvenirs along with a donation. If you want to participate, see http://www.pizzaalovestory.com.

Those who donate will get swag such as a ball-point pen with the slogan from the films poster: Pizza wasnt invented in New Haven. It was perfected there. If you are generous enough, you can get a copy of Caplans book New Haven Apizza or some of Bechards movies, such as Psychos in Love or a CD of Falcones soundtrack for Pizza, A Love Story.

If you click on that kickstarter link, you can read this promotional teaser for the film: How did this happen? How does this one little town in one of the smallest states just happen to have three of the greatest pizza places in the world? What made Frank Sinatra send his driver from Hoboken, New Jersey, to New Haven just to pick up pizzas? What makes rock stars include in their riders that New Haven pizza must be served in the green room? What made director Steven Spielberg send a private jet to the New Haven airport to pick up 50 pies for his sons wedding? What makes people wait in line for hours for New Haven pizza?

When we sat down to discuss all of this, already getting hungry for those first slices out of Moderns oven, Bechard told me everybodys proper titles. He is the films director, producer and editor. His co-editor is Brianna Marcosano. Caplan is a producer and historian for the film. Falcone. a guitarist and composer who has been playing with bands since his pre-teens, is also a producer and is doing the films score.

Bechard admitted at the outset: We are ridiculous pizza snobs. This quickly became clear. For instance, when Caplan mentioned Chicago deep dish pizza, he winced and dismissed it as puff pastry.

There are at least 25 cities in America serving New Haven style pizza, Caplan noted. Some are OK; some are inedible.

These fellows have traveled around a lot and have had the unfortunate experience of trying out-of-town pizzas. They told me the pizza in the Midwest is terrible and Floridas is almost as bad. As for Los Angeles, where Caplan lived for a couple of years, he called their pizza embarrassing.

When I asked how they judged the Pepes pizza now being served up in locations outside the Elm City, Falcone said, They have to dumb it down a little bit. They cant cook it as much as they do here; its not as charred. Youre not going to have the same New Haven experience.

Its the Disney version, Bechard said.

Bechard told me one of the reasons he wanted to make this documentary is to tell people that if you havent had pizza at one of those three places, you really havent had pizza!

What then, I asked, makes the pizza so special at Sallys, Pepes and Modern? Bechard said you must never overlook the history of New Haven, the many Italians who came here from Naples. Caplan chimed in that pizza started in Naples in the 1700s.

Bechard added about that special New Haven quality: It has to do with the water, the ingredients.

Its not the water! Falcone said. I think its more the humidity, our sea level.

Caplans answer rose above water vs. humidity: The thing that comes through is their history, their longevity and they have those historic ovens to make the type of heat that comes over the pies. And the recipes that are passed down from generation to generation. Its simple and traditional.

Caplan added, New Haven style is about the combination of these things. But in our movie, you can listen to what the families say: Its the love.

At Sallys, the family is the Consiglios. There was immense local concern when it was announced last December that Sallys had been sold, to a Pennsylvania LLC. But Bobby and Rick Consiglio, the sons of Sallys founder Salvatore (Sally) Consiglio, assured everybody they would stay there to be managers.

The brothers mother, Flo Consiglio, died in 2012. But she will be seen in the film, talking about the family business. Bechard said, We did the last interview with Flo.

Bechard shared this story about her: Bill Clinton and Al Gore were coming to New Haven and one of their staffers called Flo to tell her: We want to come to your place for lunch. Flo said, Were not open for lunch. The staffer said, No, the president and the vice president want to have lunch at your restaurant! And Flo said: We dont open early for anybody.

Bechard said with a smile: Flo was the pizza Nazi. When you walked in, you lived in her world. But if you played ball with it, you were part of her family and you had the best pizza on the planet.

When I asked the guys to name their favorite of the big three, Bechard replied: Here or Sallys, depending on the day. Ive had an occasional dud at Sallys. Its as simple as: what they get in on that day isnt as good as what it should be. All pizza is inherently inconsistent.

Except Sallys! Falcone said. He said when asked whats his favorite, Its straight up Sallys. Its the crust; its the char. And nobody can beat their plain tomato pie.

Caplan also names Sallys as his numero uno. Its what I would want to be my last meal. Its ultimately an earth-shattering experience. The crust is perfectly crispy, spongy, cheesy. The sauce is slightly sweet and tomatoey.

I asked them: what about Pepes? Caplan said its right behind Sallys in his book. And Bechard offered: Their clam is an amazing pie. But its way too heavy to eat on a regular basis. When he goes to Pepes, he heads out back to The Spot, the pizzerias first location. I think its better. Its got the original oven.

Caplan, a true scholar on the subject of New Haven pizza history, said Pepes, which got started in 1925, is merely the fifth oldest continuously run pizzeria in the country. When I remarked this will burst the bubble of many folks around here who think Pepes was the birthplace of pizza, Caplan said, Pepes acknowledges theyre not the first.

Francis Rosselli and Gary Bimonte, Frank Pepes grandsons, who are at the helm there now, also are interviewed in the film. Others include actor Henry Winkler and musician Lyle Lovett. Bechard said, Were working on Hillary and Bill.

During our session at Modern, Bill Pustari, its owner since 1988, stopped by our table to greet everybody. Bechard recalled the challenge of finding photos of the original Modern from the 1930s. Caplan finally found one on eBay.

The cool thing about this film, Caplan said, is that were looking back on the whole history, the Italian migration to New Haven. I feel like this movie is re-living the different city that New Haven once was. And the remnant of that city can be seen in our pizzerias.

Bechard said his goal is to show a work-in-progress on the opening night of the New Haven Documentary Film Festival May 31.

Contact Randall Beach at 203-680-9345 or randall.beach@hearstmediact.comNEW HAVEN  Leadership of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education is pursuing a policy agenda in 2018 that continues to focus on special education, school funding and the achievement gap.

For at least the third year, CABE is advocating for more stable funding, diversity in Connecticuts school boards and among teachers and fewer state mandates that interfere with local innovation.

Clearly the stability of funding for education remains our highest priority, said Patrice McCarthy, deputy director and general counsel for CABE, in a meeting with the New Haven Registers editorial board.

One of the biggest issues facing school board pocketbooks is the rising cost burden of special education, she said.

Statewide, special education students represent about 13.4 percent of the overall student population, said CABE Senior Staff Associate Sheila McKay, but the funding from the national government has not kept apace. Across the state, she said, between 20 and 25 percent of school budgets go to special education costs.

One solution CABE sees to address the growing costs of special education is creating legal pathways to collaboration between school districts.

Regionalization, McCarthy said, is a very cumbersome, complicated, lengthy process that links school districts to one another in a way that makes divorcing difficult to do once school districts are linked.

If school districts were able to make memorandums of understanding to collaborate on certain issues, without violating collective bargaining agreements, schools could pool resources to better handle burdersome costs, CABE says.

Presently, school districts often share back office functions like IT and payroll services, but they are prohibited from sharing staff and programs that would be mutually beneficial and impact schools at the student level, CABE contends.

CABEs agenda also will continue to pursue increasing the diversity within school boards and teaching staff.

Were trying to get our heads around how we can help other towns increase their diversity so their boards will look more like the citizens in their towns, said Donald Harris, first vice president of CABE.

A survey led by the University of Connecticuts education school on the racial makeup of the states school boards and teachers had putrid results, Harris said.

The states certification program is among the most rigorous in the nation, and CABE staff said they would like to see more work done around incubating future teachers of color from within the school systems.

We want to give those students the supports they need, McCarthy said.

Another constant listed on the CABE policy agenda is to address the achievement gap.

According to state Department of Education data, the four-year graduation rate for white students increased 1.2 points in five years, whereas its grown 5.8 points among black students and 7.8 points for Hispanic students. However, there is a 13.7 point gap between white and black students and a 16.1 point gap between white and Hispanic students.

In 2017, more than two-thirds of white students met or exceeded their goal on the English portion of the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium exam, whereas less than one-third of black and Hispanic students did the same. In math, more than one-half of white students met or exceeded the goal benchmark, and less than one-quarter of black or Hispanic students accomplished that.

The CABE 2018 legislative document notes its priorities with regard to the achievement gap include encouraging the state to:

Invest in programs that promote cultural competency and the hiring and retention of educators from diverse backgrounds

Continue to increase access to early childhood programs

Provide an accountability system that supports personalized learning to accelerate and enhance student achievement and support low performing students

Expand interagency access to mental health and drug use prevention services for youth.

CABE urges boards of education to provide strong leadership to raise student achievement, and to create a school climate that fosters academic and personal development, the organizations 2018 agenda says.

Further, the group supports the states efforts to address and solve the issues of social and economic isolation in the areas of housing, transportation, employment, access to health care and social services.

Harris said in his hometown of Bloomfield, a focus on data has been effective at turning the district around.

If we are testing for skills students need to have, theres nothing wrong with testing, McCarthy said. We are meeting the needs of more of our students than we ever have before, but we still clearly have the achievement gap and thats got to be an ongoing focus.

When asked about CABEs legislative victories, given its repeated priorities, McCarthy said loosening high school graduation requirements to allow districts more flexibility and reducing professional development mandates that did not allow much time for districts to offer individualized instruction were victories for the group in the last legislative session.

On the agenda item on civility the organization notes it urges public officials at all levels of government to model civil discourse in their

deliberations, allowing for the thoughtful, beneficial productive exchange of ideas and perspectives. CABE urges school boards to provide opportunities

for students to develop their skills in conflict resolution and consensus building, and for school board members to model these skills in their own conduct.

brian.zahn@hearstmediact.comIn yet another blow to embattled liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya, the fugitive businessman has lost a legal battle involving his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines in a London court. The UK High Court has asked his company to pay an estimated $90 million in claim to Singapore-based BOC Aviation and BOC Aviation, Ireland.

As per the legal claim, Kingfisher Airlines signed an agreement with aircraft leasing company BOC Aviation to lease out four aircrafts in 2014. The company delivered three of them but the fourth one couldn't be delivered due to an advance payment issue. BOC Aviation told the court Kingfisher Airlines was 'contractually bound' to pay the security amount, but the security that paid by Kingfisher was not enough as per the agreement, following which BOC Aviation moved the London court for claim. The first and second defendants in the claim were named as Kingfisher Airlines Ltd and United Breweries (Holdings) Ltd, respectively.

PTI reported that Justice Picken, in a judgment dated February 5 at the Business and Property Courts of the High Court in London, ruled that "the defendants have no real prospect of successfully defending the claim". "The Second Defendant [United Breweries] shall be jointly and severally liable with the First Defendant [Kingfisher Airlines] to pay the Claimants [BOC Aviation] half of the said costs liability," the court order notes.

Mallya remains on a 650,000-pound bail bond since his arrest on an extradition warrant by Scotland Yard in April in 2017. He has been fighting an extradition case in a London court on the charges of fraud and money laundering involving Kingfisher Airlines default of bank loans worth nearly Rs 9,000-crore.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), representing the Indian government, has claimed that the evidence they have presented confirms "dishonesty" on the part of the businessman, who acquired the loans through misrepresentation and had no intentions of repaying them. Mallya's defence team has been deposing a series of expert witnesses to try and establish that the default by Kingfisher Airlines was the result of business failure within a wider context of a global financial crisis and that its owner had no "fraudulent" intentions.

Vijay Mallya will soon face another parallel litigation brought by 13 Indian banks to freeze nearly $1.5 billion of his assets. According to court documents submitted at the UK High Court, the claim brought by the Indian banks against the 61-year-old embattled liquor baron will come up for a hearing in April.

The litigation in the Queen's Bench Division of the commercial court in England's High Court of Justice lists the State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Corporation Bank, Federal Bank Ltd, IDBI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Jammu & Kashmir Bank, Punjab & Sind Bank, Punjab National Bank, State Bank of Mysore, UCO Bank, United Bank of India and JM Financial Asset Reconstruction Co. Pvt Ltd as the applicants.As a rule, I stay away from the topic of education, mainly because it makes a promise it breaks and fails to deliver on  an equal education for all.

I dropped out of school in the seventh grade and I have never regretted that decision.

I hated everything about school, and I cant imagine that many of the students these days who are truant dont feel the same way.

To me, the place we called school was a difficult learning environment with crowded, noisy classrooms and daily confrontations. Every day was a repeat of the last.

It wasnt even a place where questions could be asked to grasp a real understanding of a lesson, but one where those questions were always put on hold or the answers rushed through because we had to move on to the next chapter in the textbook.

I didnt think much of public education when I was a kid, and I dont think much of public education now  and to me, charter and magnet schools are mere diversions for the incompetence of the state and some educators to provide a fair and equal education to all children.

It is not a stretch to say there is something very wrong with any educational system that has children for 12 years  but graduates students who still need remedial courses to enter college, cant differentiate between  your and youre or whose and who is and are not able to make change at the cash register without being told the amount to give back.

On Friday, the Register held an editorial board meeting with members of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education, an organization of educators and advocates whose mission is to assist local and regional boards of education in providing high quality public education for all Connecticut children through effective leadership.

As I listened to them, I thought back to the time I was in grammar and junior high school  and realized not much had changed.

Blacks and other low-income children are still digging in the bins for scraps of an educational system that is broken and in desperate need of a serious fix.

I wondered as they talked how much of a subconscious role not having black teachers and a good learning environment played in me running away from it.

The truth is, it may be well-intentioned, but our educational system pushes through students whether they are prepared or not for that next level  and it has been doing it for decades.

Social issues, social media and other technologies are used as excuses for why teaching and reaching children these days is so difficult. Yet, emerging technology is something every new generation has to deal with and social issues have been with us since people started populating the Earth.

Educators can talk about exploring and trying new educational models, but whatever happened to good, old-fashioned reading, writing and arithmetic as the anchors of education?

My day-to-day formal education stopped when I was 12 years old. The next three years was spent at war with my mother and staying one step ahead of truant officers.

At 13, I was too young not to be in school, so I was forced to go back and was put in the eighth grade, where about a month later, I dropped out again. I was 15 when truant officers caught up with me and once again, forced me to return to school  but this time, there was a problem.

I had not really completed seventh or eighth grade, therefore had not graduated from what was then called a junior high school  and I was too old to be put back with students two or three years my junior. So educators found a solution: I was asked who the first president of the United States was. I answered and  quicker than a magician pulls a rabbit out of a hat  I was sent on to high school.

That lasted about six weeks before I dropped out again and, this time, never returned. Many years later, I obtained a GED while serving in the Navy  and, more than 20 years after starts and stumbles, I finally entered college.

It was definitely not the road most traveled and I admit there was a lot going on in my life during that time.

Readers might remember from my column, My journey out of domestic violence, where I spent my time during those troubling three years.

For those who dont know, it was the public library, where I soaked up the words of James Baldwin and read about presidents, world affairs, American history and British history.

That was how I educated myself  away from the chaos of home and the chaos of school  and I have survived just fine.

I know this is a controversial column and I might get a lot of heat from teachers for it, but I really dont care.

It is not a knock on them, but an attack on a system that is failing thousands of children  and the arbiters know it. Education is not supposed to be about funding but making the future equal for all. And it is not doing that in the state of Connecticut.

I am told that Connecticut has one of the toughest tests in the country to become a teacher in this state.

Maybe the state should worry less about tests and more about the ability of people who can reach, teach and inspire.

There is too much money being poured into education for it to fail at the level it is failing so many students.

I will say it again: I didnt think much of public education when I was young, and I dont think much of public education now.

We all have our own road and sometimes our feet wont walk in any other direction despite the opposition.

The gale force winds of society kept blowing me back, but I am so glad my feet kept going, because look at me now.

Education? I dropped out and I have never regretted that decision.

James Walker is the Registers senior editor. He can be reached at 203-680-9389 or james.walker@hearstmediact.com. Follow him on Twitter @thelieonroars.

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Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading.WILMINGTON, Del.  The American unit of Takata, the Japanese company whose airbags have been linked to more than a dozen deaths, has reached an agreement with its creditors, lawyers for affected motorists and automakers that eases its way to end its Chapter 11 bankruptcy and sell its viable operations, according to court papers.

The companys airbags can explode with too much force, prompting the largest recall in automotive history and forcing Takata and its United States unit, TK Holdings, into bankruptcy.

TK Holdings had been seeking a judges approval for a plan to exit bankruptcy over the opposition of a committee for injured drivers and a separate committee of unsecured creditors.

But the two committees, automakers and Key Safety Systems, which is acquiring the viable business lines of Takata, reached a deal that resolves the biggest objections to the plan, according to court documents filed on Saturday.The government is likely to breach the fiscal deficit target this year by 300 basis points (bps), from 3.2% to 3.5% of the GDP, clearly going off the fiscal deficit roadmap as laid down by it earlier. One of the reasons that the finance minister and the bureaucrats in the ministry have been citing for this slippage is the fact that they have accounted for only 11-month of GST against 12-month of expenses.

Explaining this, finance minister Arun Jaitley recently said in an event at industry association FICCI: "In the old regime, you would get paid the tax in same month the liability is accrued, but in GST you get paid only by 20th of the next month. So in the current fiscal, the March GST would only come in April. Therefore, we have accounted only for 11-month of GST."

He further says, "So when people talk about the so-called fiscal slippage, they conveniently overlook that it is 12 months of expenses and only 11 months of GST. So, to stick to the fiscal target with a one-month revenue is very difficult." The minister adds that if we account for the Rs 36,000 crore additional revenue from one month of GST, it would cover a significant portion of the 300 bps slippage.

How valid is this argument? Is it really on the tax revenue front that the government has fallen by the wayside as far as fiscal deficit is concerned? Economists believe otherwise. Pronab Sen, an economist and former chief statistician of India, explains: "Government accounts are prepared on cash basis, which means an income is recorded only when the money has been received or a expense is recorded when payment has been made. This is different from accrual basis of accounting under which a expense is recorded the moment expense happens."

So, according to him, whatever (tax) revenue gap the finance minister is talking about is actually the difference between the first months' collection in the current financial year and the next financial year.

Sunil Kumar Sinha, principal economist, India Ratings, however, rejects the explanation of the government outright. "If you look at the revised estimate for indirect tax collection for the current year, it is (1 percentage point) more than what they had budgeted for. So, it is not on the tax revenue side that the government has slipped," he says. He, instead, blames the government's inability to raise enough money from non-tax revenue sources and keep the expenses at check for the slippage in the fiscal deficit target.

The government had in the last budget made a total tax revenue estimate of Rs 19.11 lakh crore for 2017/18 against which the revised estimate is Rs 19.46 lakh crore, an increase of almost 2% from the budgeted estimate. For indirect tax, the budget estimate for the current financial year was Rs 9.27 lakh crore against which the revised estimate is Rs 9.36 lakh crore.

The budget estimate is the first estimate for tax collection figures made in the budget papers for the following year, while this estimate may change during the financial year due to higher or lower collection and hence a new estimate -- revised estimate -- is given in the budget paper of the next financial year.

The government has budgeted for non-tax revenue of Rs 2.89 lakh crore for the current financial year, which they have now revised to Rs 2.36 lakh crore, a sharp drop of Rs 53,000 crore or 18%. Till December 2017, the total non-tax revenue collection was only Rs 1.13 lakh crore which is 39% of the budget estimate. If the trend continues like this, the actual non-tax revenue collection may be less than the revised estimate.

Even on the expenditure side, the government has failed to keep the spending on check. Against the budget estimate of a revenue deficit of (Rs 3.2 lakh crore) 1.9%, the revised estimate is way higher at (4.4 lakh crore) 2.6%. Revenue deficit occurs when expenditure is more than revenue receipt.

Rathin Roy, director of National Institute of Public Finance and Planning (NIPFP) and a member of economic advisory committee of the prime minister (EAC-PM), though says one month's less GST collection is certainly one of the reasons for such sharp breach in fiscal deficit target, he feels it is not only the finance ministry's job to maintain the fiscal deficit target, other stake holders must also contribute.

He was talking about the low non-tax revenue collection, which include dividend and profits from PSUs, RBI and LIC. "RBI is sitting on huge cash, and they could have paid higher dividends," he says. Roy also admits that high pension outgo has also increased government's revenue expenditures making it difficult for the government to stick to the fiscal deficit target.The Legal Aid Society has threatened to take the New York City Housing Authority to court unless the agency agrees to refund up to $15 million in rent to tenants who were left without heat or hot water during this winters cold snap.

Unless Nycha grants abatements, the Legal Aid Society will take necessary legal action to enforce our clients rights, Lucy Newman, a staff lawyer for the Legal Aid Society, wrote in a letter sent to Nycha on Friday. The group gave Nycha until Feb. 21 to resolve the issue.

New York City has seen the most days below freezing this winter since 1961. The frigid temperatures have taken a toll on Nychas aging boilers, leaving 323,098 residents without heat or hot water at some point during the heating season. Nycha officials have said that between Oct. 1, 2017, and Jan. 22, 143,000 apartments were without heat and hot water for an average of 48 hours.

Using this information, Legal Aid Society lawyers argue that anywhere from $2.5 million to $15 million in rent payments should be rebated based on the average monthly rent of $509, or $17 per day.A gang-affiliated Rikers Island inmate awaiting trial on an attempted murder charge was furious that a New York City Department of Correction officer had written him up for a recent infraction. He vowed to get even, union officials said, boasting on Saturday during a taped phone conversation that he planned to knock out this super cop.

At 6:27 p.m. on Saturday, the inmate and Bloods gang member, Steven Espinal, walked up to the uniformed officer in a vestibule of the George Motchan Detention Center and punched him, knocking him to the floor, according to Elias Husamudeen, president of the Correction Officers Benevolent Association.

Within moments, four other inmates rushed the officer, kicking and pummeling him for about eight seconds until two correction officers came to his aid, including one who used pepper spray, according to a video of the attack. Another officer who was behind a nearby desk appeared to stand idle during the assault, but Mr. Husamudeen said he also used his pepper spray.

The injured officer, Jean Souffrant, 39, who is in stable condition at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, fractured his neck and is being treated for bleeding on the right side of his brain, relatives said.A group of former Facebook and Google employees last week began a campaign to change the tech companies they had a hand in creating. The initiative, called Truth About Tech, aims to push these companies to make their products less addictive for children  and its a good start.

But theres more to the problem. If you think middle-class children are being harmed by too much screen time, just consider how much greater the damage is to minority and disadvantaged kids, who spend much more time in front of screens.

According to a 2011 study by researchers at Northwestern University, minority children watch 50 percent more TV than their white peers, and they use computers for up to one and a half hours longer each day. White children spend eight hours and 36 minutes looking at a screen every day, according to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, while black and Hispanic children spend 13 hours.

While some parents in more dangerous neighborhoods understandably think that screen time is safer than playing outside, the deleterious effects of too much screen time are abundantly clear. Screen time has a negative effect on childrens ability to understand nonverbal emotional cues; it is linked to higher rates of mental illness, including depression; and it heightens the risk for obesity.Before the vote in Virginia, pundits on both the right and left were speculating that Mr. Gillespies anti-immigrant strategy was working. But in the end, election results and polling data in Virginia proved all that thinking was wrong. While each state has its own demographics and distinct politics, Virginia has voters who span demographic and economic spectrums. Majorities of voters of all races and ethnicities rejected anti-immigrant stereotypes as ugly and wrong.

According to an election eve survey of voters by Latino Decisions, Latino voters said that Mr. Gillespies MS-13 ads made them less enthusiastic about him, by a 45-point margin. But it wasnt just Latino voters. By a 23-point margin (52 to 29), whites in Virginia also said the MS-13 ads turned them away from Mr. Gillespie, as did African-American and Asian-American voters by larger margins.

Data speaks louder than punditry, and our regression analysis of survey data paints a clear picture. Exposure to Mr. Gillespies MS-13 ads actually helped drive white college-educated voters away from the Republicans. When we analyzed findings for white independents and Republicans, voters who were aware of the MS-13 ads were significantly more likely to vote for Mr. Gillespies Democratic opponent. What should be alarming for Republicans is that this effect wasnt limited to the governors race. The Gillespie campaign had coattail effects, but of the wrong stripe. Across all racial groups, those who were aware of Mr. Gillespies MS-13 ads were significantly more likely to vote for Democratic candidates for Virginias House of Delegates.

This means that not only is it morally just for Democrats to position themselves as the party that stands against hatred and bigotry and in favor of inclusiveness and opportunity, but it is also a strategically sound position for winning votes. Simultaneously, it sends a clear, welcoming message to Latino, African-American and Asian-American voters, while also winning over enough of the white voters who also oppose immigrant bashing.

This phenomenon is particularly true of voters who will decide crucial House and Senate races in 2018: people of color and white college-educated voters  also known as the Democratic base. Mr. Trump and his fellow Republicans are clearly gearing up for a similar anti-immigrant effort in 2018. But now the mask has been pulled off. Voters get it. Democrats have an opportunity to speak out strongly against bigotry. And in doing so, they have a path to victory in 2018 and beyond.After more than 30 years of research and more than $200 billion, the nations ballistic missile defense program remains riddled with flaws, even as the threat from North Korean missiles escalates.

Still, President Trump persuaded Congress to increase spending for the program to $14 billion, from $10 billion, in the 2018 budget, claiming in his national security strategy that plans to push the system will include the ability to defeat missile threats prior to launch.

Mr. Trump is overselling the program, an interlocking network of interceptors, radars, sensors and so-called kill vehicles. He has boasted that the system is 97 percent effective in preventing limited-scale attacks; the truth is more like 50 percent. So its defense against North Korean weapons is hardly a sure thing.

The programs failings were on display as recently as last month, when, during a test off the Hawaiian coast, an interceptor missile launched from a test site in Kauai failed to hit its target, an incoming dummy missile. That was the second failure in three tests of the interceptor, the SM-3, which is intended to be a mainstay of American regional missile defense systems being deployed in Romania, Poland and Japan to guard against medium-range missiles. The Pentagon has not disclosed what went wrong.States that set out a decade ago to trim prison costs have learned that success lies in a few areas  rolling back draconian sentencing that drove up prison populations in the first place, and remaking parole and probation systems, which have, in numerous cases, sent as many or even more people to jail for rule violations as the courts do for new crimes.

Significant progress has been made on both fronts. Yet New York, a national leader in reducing its prison population, could do much more to reform its parole and probation systems.

These systems were established across in the United States in the 19th century. The premise was that steering people who commit minor offenses to probation, rather than prison, and shortening prison sentences with parole in exchange for good conduct further the goal of rehabilitation. But that notion fell out of favor after the country embraced mass incarceration in the late 20th century, driving up the prison population from about 200,000 at the start of the 1970s to a peak of 1.6 million at the end of the 2000s.

The woefully underfunded parole system fell in line with the jail-first agenda. Parole officers, who were buried under massive caseloads, sent parolees back inside for technical violations, like failing drug tests, missing curfew or socializing with friends they had been forbidden to see. With nearly five million people in the nation under supervision  more than twice the number housed in prisons and jails  the parole and probation systems have become what corrections researchers now describe as a significant driver of recidivism.Heres how it works: First, the Trump administration, often with congressional Republicans, enacts a policy that harms a large number of Americans. Then local or state allies of the administration raise objections. Ultimately, the administration and Congress create a carve-out that protects a small number of favored constituents while leaving most of the damaging policy in place.

It is splendidly hypocritical, of course: If Trumps agenda is as wonderful as he says, his loyal supporters should surely get to benefit from it as well. But I think it also contains an important lesson for anyone trying to stop Trumps agenda: Keep calling attention to the substance of that agenda, because it is deeply unpopular  and even Trumps allies know its unpopular.

The pattern first appeared during the attempts to repeal Obamacare last year. The repeal bills would have sharply cut federal spending on health insurance. Yet not every part of the country would have experienced a cut. Most blue states would have suffered large reductions (Trumpism for thee), while many red states would actually have received more federal subsidies (but not for me).

Then came the tax law passed in December. Not only does it shift billions of federal dollars from blue states to red, it does so partly through duplicity.

The clearest example is a new tax on colleges with an endowment of at least $500,000 per full-time student. It was aimed at bastions of liberalism, like Harvard, M.I.T., Stanford and Amherst. But members of Congress eventually realized that the endowment tax would also apply to Berea College, a small institution in Kentucky with a nice-sized endowment.Its not theater.

So says the director to the actress. Spoken with jokey reassurance, this disclaimer is delivered in the opening moments of Returning to Reims, an all-too timely rumination on working-class disaffection and nationalist politics from the German director Thomas Ostermeier, which opened on Sunday at St. Anns Warehouse in Brooklyn.

What Paul (Bush Moukarzel), the director, means is that the performer, Katy (Nina Hoss), neednt worry about fluffing lines. After all, theyre in a studio where shell be recording the voice-over for a film by Paul, and mistakes can be erased with the flick of a dial.

But audiences familiar with the work of Mr. Ostermeier, and his Schaubuhne Berlin company, may hear a different, more confrontational meaning in Pauls words. Mr. Ostermeier, whose productions of classics like Richard III (seen at the Brooklyn Academy of Music last fall) seemed not so much to push envelopes as to rip them apart, is celebrated for redefining how theater should behave.

But even his longtime fans are unlikely to be prepared for the seeming noneventfulness of the first half of Returning to Reims, adapted from a 2009 memoir by the French philosopher Didier Eribon. Most of what happens during that hour seems to be willfully, even numbingly anti-dramatic.When White House officials learned last week that The Daily Mail would publish an article about allegations by the ex-wives, Hope Hicks, the communications director, who had been dating Mr. Porter, and Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the press secretary, approached Mr. Kelly about a statement in support of him, according to two people briefed on the events. Mr. Kelly, who had been on Capitol Hill much of the day, agreed to have a statement issued in his name describing the charges as vile.

Nonetheless, the people briefed on the discussions said, Mr. Kelly told Mr. Porter at some point later that evening that he needed to resign. Mr. Porter agreed. It was not issued as a clear order, but it was understood that Mr. Porter would go, according to the two people briefed on the discussions. Mr. Porter has offered a different version of events, telling associates that he was initially urged to stay on and fight, including by Mr. Kelly.

Either way, Mr. Porter arrived at work on Wednesday morning and told Mr. Kelly that he was reconsidering stepping down, according to the two people briefed. Mr. Kelly again said Mr. Porter needed to leave, the people said. Mr. Porter agreed and told colleagues that he planned to resign without setting a departure date so he could help with the transition. He maintained to colleagues that his ex-wives were making up their stories of abuse and that while he was flawed, he was not physically abusive.

The official line remained that Mr. Porter had made the choice to leave on his own and was not asked. Ms. Sanders, whose briefing materials take hours to prepare and whose official statements are agreed to in advance by senior aides, said from the briefing room lectern that Mr. Kelly and Mr. Trump still had full confidence in Mr. Porter.

At various points, officials have said it was the publication of the photographs that changed their calculation. The photographs took everybody by surprise, Mr. Mulvaney said.

Mr. Kelly was persuaded to issue a second statement expressing shock, and White House officials made clear that Mr. Porter would be gone the next day. But Thursday morning, Mr. Porter was still in his office, clearing out his things, and had to be nudged to leave.

Mr. Porter has told associates that he had informed White House officials last year that he had two ex-wives who, he said, had manufactured claims about him. Other officials said he described messy and complicated divorces, but offered no specific details. Two West Wing officials said Mr. Porter had offered conflicting portraits of his marriages. One official said he at first discussed one divorce, and then two. Initially, he said that he had been verbally abusive but that his wives had been too.LONDON  During an interview in late 2016 about the rise of populism, Yascha Mounk, a lecturer at Harvard University who is the author of the new book The People vs. Democracy, made an offhand comment that now seems grimly prophetic.

In recent years, he said, Europes center-left and center-right parties had tended to work together, either unofficially or in a grand coalition, in what was viewed as high-minded and sensible, an important bulwark against the rise of the far right.

But Mr. Mounk believed such cooperation ultimately led to instability. Those ideologically weird coalitions tend to alienate voters, he said, by implying that there was little real difference between establishment right and left.

And grand-coalition politics, he said, also meant that the things that the populists have said all along  that everything else in politics is the same and a conspiracy against them, and the only way to change the government is to vote for the populists  become true.Akram Khans much talked-about reworking of Giselle, created for English National Ballet in 2016, will come to the United States next year, the companys first trip across the Atlantic in 30 years. The Harris Theater in Chicago will present English National Ballet in four performances of Mr. Khans work, Feb. 28 to March 2, 2019.

Giselle was commissioned by Tamara Rojo, the former Royal Ballet principal who became director of English National Ballet in 2012. It was seen as a gamble for both the company and for Mr. Khan. Known for his fusion of contemporary dance and Indian kathak, he had not previously created a full-length work for a ballet company. Although it is loosely based on the story of the famous 1841 classic, Mr. Khan updates the story to a world of migrant workers and powerful landlords.

The production, set to music by Vincenzo Lamagna, was an immediate success with both critics and the public, and recently returned for an equally applauded second run at Sadlers Wells Theater in London.

Patricia Barretto, the president and chief executive of the Harris Theater, said that although she had not seen a live performance, she had been following the works success online. I was enthralled by how stunning it was, with the melding of traditional kathak dance and ballet, Ms. Barretto said in a telephone interview. I felt we had to do it.Berklee College of Music, already the worlds largest provider of online music degrees, will add graduate programs to its digital offerings this fall.

It will begin with a master of music in music production and a master of arts in music business. The conservatory, whose main campus is in Boston, plans to add other degree programs in the future, and is already at work on an online graduate program in film scoring, though it has not announced when that will become available.

Image Carin Nuernberg, vice president of online education. Credit... Berklee Online

The goal is to expand online programs where they meet student demand, Carin Nuernberg, the schools vice president of online education, said in an email. Online study takes advantage of interactive, collaborative technologies that allow for the sharing of ideas and work in a distributed, more affordable context, which in many ways mirrors what is happening in the music industry today.I had to explain that Ive got enough political problems without you making me look like Napoleon, Mr. Obama said. Youve got to bring it down just a touch.

The former president also thanked Ms. Sherald for so spectacularly capturing the grace and beauty and intelligence and charm and hotness of the woman that I love.

Ms. Sherald, in her remarks, paid tribute to Mrs. Obama. You exist in our minds and hearts in the way that you do because we can see ourselves in you, she said. What you represent to this country is an ideal  a human being with integrity, intellect, confidence and compassion. And the paintings I create aspire to express these attributes.

Among the prominent figures who turned out for the ceremony were Steven Spielberg, the filmmaker, and his wife, the actress Kate Capshaw, who helped fund the commission of the portraits. Also in attendance were several former members of Mr. Obamas administration, including Eric H. Holder Jr., the former attorney general; David Axelrod, the former senior strategist; Jay Carney, the former press secretary; and Sam Kass, Mr. Obamas senior policy adviser for nutrition (who sat with his baby in his arms). We miss you guys, Mr. Obama told them, in his remarks.

Mr. Wileys work often features African-Americans in the regal poses of emperors and kings, his own distinctive riff on historic portraiture. The Obama portrait, too, has its own majesty. But the former president is also depicted in a chair, with his hands crossed and elbows on his knees  a posture of informality and intimacy.

The two men paged through Mr. Wileys collection of art history books and thought about the grand tradition of presidential portraits, Mr. Wiley said, in an interview after the unveiling. Then we decided very quickly that we were just going to strike out a path of our own and try to create a type of singular narrative surrounding what this picture looks like  discarding history but also embracing it at once.The announcement by American Airlines seemed to hark to another era: The airline would be adding shuttle service between New York and Chicago this spring  and serving free beer and wine, no less.

But the American shuttle is a shuttle in only the narrowest definition: It will adhere to a regular, frequent schedule.

In the glory days of air shuttles, a few decades ago, shuttles were more freewheeling affairs. Passengers could buy their tickets onboard, and operators kept extra planes on standby so every person who showed up could be accommodated. There was just one class on the planes  no first class or economy  and meals were served to everyone on many of the flights, even if the plane was in the air for under an hour.

Today, the seating is more finite  a reservation is probably a good idea. Snacks are available to everyone, but full meals are usually offered only to first-class passengers on flights between New York and Chicago. And American acknowledged that while its new shuttle service would translate to more round trips between La Guardia Airport and Chicago each day, some flights would use smaller planes, so overall capacity on the route would not change.We need to at least teach people that theres a dark side to the idea that you should move fast and break things, said Laura Noren, a postdoctoral fellow at the Center for Data Science at New York University who began teaching a new data science ethics course this semester. You can patch the software, but you cant patch a person if you, you know, damage someones reputation.

Computer science programs are required to make sure students have an understanding of ethical issues related to computing in order to be accredited by ABET, a global accreditation group for university science and engineering programs. Some computer science departments have folded the topic into a broader class, and others have stand-alone courses.

But until recently, ethics did not seem relevant to many students.

Compared to transportation or doctors, your daily interaction with physical harm or death or pain is a lot less if you are writing software for apps, said Joi Ito, director of the M.I.T. Media Lab.

One reason that universities are pushing tech ethics now is the popularization of powerful tools like machine learning  computer algorithms that can autonomously learn tasks by analyzing large amounts of data. Because such tools could ultimately alter human society, universities are rushing to help students understand the potential consequences, said Mr. Ito, who is co-teaching the Harvard-M.I.T. ethics course.

As we start to see things, like autonomous vehicles, that clearly have the ability to save people but also cause harm, I think that people are scrambling to build a system of ethics, he said. (Mr. Ito is a director of The New York Times Company.)

Last fall, Cornell University introduced a data science course where students learned to deal with ethical challenges  such as biased data sets that include too few lower-income households to be representative of the general population. Students also debated the use of algorithms to help automate life-changing decisions like hiring or college admissions.Banks are subject to much more exacting oversight because the federal government guarantees their deposits up to $250,000, a protection not afforded customers of other financial firms like securities and commodities brokers. With that protection, however, comes the price of being closely regulated. For example, a bank officer or director can be removed for violating the federal banking laws, including conduct that would seriously threaten the safety and soundness of the bank.

Even with the appointment of four new directors by the years end, the Federal Reserve stopped short of ordering any to step down immediately, nor was anyone in senior management identified as acting improperly.

The central bank sent letters to the former chief executive John G. Stumpf and to the former chairman Stephen W. Sanger, criticizing their performance as an example of ineffective oversight that is not consistent with the Federal Reserves expectations for a bank of its size and scope.

Wells Fargos attitude seems to be that the order is more of a legacy cost for past misconduct than a censure of its current operations. In a statement issued by the bank, its chief executive, Timothy J. Sloan, said: It is important to note that the consent order is not related to any new matters, but to prior issues where we have already made significant progress.

Even the limitations on growth dont seem to be too much of a stumbling block. Mr. Sloan said on a conference call with analysts that we want to have this cap lifted as soon as possible, and were going to work very hard to make sure thats the case. In other words, nothing for investors to fret too much about.For the past two years, Icelandic Provisions has been making skyr, a thick, custardy fermented milk similar to yogurt, in upstate New York. For its ninth flavor, the company asked the chef Gunnar Gislason, who has been advising the company, to devise a flavor. Mr. Gislason, who owns a restaurant in Reykjavik and is also the executive chef of Agern in Grand Central Terminal, dipped into his childhood and the Icelandic countryside for an elegant mauve-colored cherry-black currant skyr. Icelandic Provisionss skyr, which is made with cultures from Iceland, is creamier and not as tart as what he grew up eating, he said. Skyr like this is an amazing development, he said: Skyr Cherry-Black Currant, $1.75 to $1.99 for 5.3 ounces, icelandicprovisions.com.

Follow NYT Food on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. Get regular updates from NYT Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice.But insurance brokers, gay-rights advocates and staff at medical clinics said in interviews they had heard of numerous such cases. H.I.V. specialists say the denials endanger mens lives by encouraging them to drop PrEP if they need life, disability or long-term-care insurance.

By contrast, health insurance companies usually cover PrEP, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention endorsed in 2014 for anyone at substantial risk of H.I.V., which includes any gay or bisexual man who might have sex without a condom with anyone of unknown H.I.V. status.

The denials turn the insurance industrys risk-management standard on its head: men who do not protect themselves can get policies, while men who do cannot.

It doesnt make any sense, said Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, and perhaps the nations best-known AIDS doctor. It ought to be the other way around.

Dr. Robert M. Grant, the AIDS researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, who led the clinical trial that established the value of PrEP, said such denials really are silly  its like refusing to insure someone because they use seatbelts.

Moreover, advocates argue, the practice singles out gay men for discriminatory treatment. Women, for instance, are not denied coverage if they use birth control pills or get the vaccine against human papillomavirus, which can cause cervical cancer. Yet like Truvada, use of these drugs suggests an active sex life, with the accompanying risks.

And insurers routinely cover applicants with actual diseases controlled by medications, including diabetes, epilepsy, high blood pressure and bipolar disorder.The image is one erased from official Iranian history books. Two women, both unveiled, have just been detained by Islamic volunteers with automatic rifles slung on their shoulders. The Iranian photographer Kaveh Kazemi, 28 at the time, followed the women walking home after they had participated in a protest against the introduction of the compulsory veil. Dressed in denim, so fashionable at the time, they are escorted away.

That picture, from 1979, captured the end of an era. Soon, Irans parliament passed a law making the Islamic veil compulsory for all women, even visiting dignitaries and tourists. The country remains one of the few in the world to ask people to dress according to the states wishes.

Four decades later, some women have again taken to the streets, removing their veils in protest. Feb. 11 is the 39th anniversary of the revolution that ousted the Shah and led to the Islamic republics creation. But instead of celebration, there is general dissatisfaction, as well as tensions over the economy and the political system. Nationwide protests that started in December lasted more than a week, leaving 25 people dead and nearly 5,000 detained.Often when a few people reveal a secret, others feel free to share their stories, too. This was the case last week, after The New York Times Magazine published an excerpt from my book, Rise and Kill First, about the secret history of Israels targeted assassination program. The excerpt focused on Israels numerous attempts to kill the P.L.O. leader Yasir Arafat, many of which were thwarted by Israeli officers worried that the sometimes spectacular schemes, which involved dropping bombs on crowded neighborhoods or shooting down civilian aircraft, threatened too much collateral damage and would amount to war crimes.

Immediately after the story ran, the Israel news media erupted in controversy. Some commenters were disturbed by the existence of the program; others were upset that it did not go far enough. The arguments were familiar. What was more interesting, though, was the reaction from people who were present at the incidents I described and at others like them.

One of the episodes in the Times excerpt involves the story of Uri Avnery, a dovish Israeli journalist who, during the 1982 Israeli siege of Beirut, crossed the lines from an Israeli-held sector into the P.L.O.-controlled western neighborhoods with a photographer and a young reporter to meet Arafat. This was a controversial move. Israelis perceived Arafat to be their greatest enemy. His code name was the Fishs Head, after the old saying that a fish rots from the head down. An Israeli special-ops task force that was set up to locate Arafat, code-named Salt Fish, knew about Avnerys plan and decided to track his party until it reached the meeting place and then strike. An argument broke out among the military men and intelligence operatives involved as to whether they should endanger the lives of the three Israelis. On this occasion, in the heat of the battle and perhaps because some of the officers held the left-wing Avnery in contempt, it was decided not to let his partys presence foil the plans to dispose of Arafat. Ultimately, however, Arafats security team was able to shake the operatives who were trailing him, and the decision remained a theoretical one.

In the wake of the Times article, Avnery wrote about the episode from his own perspective, for Haaretz. A German journalist, he said, had suggested that he interview Arafat and gave him his office telephone number. I hurried to my hotel room and dialed the number, he wrote. An Arabic-accented voice answered. I said that I was Uri Avnery from Tel Aviv and I would like to meet with the Rais  the president in Arabic. Ill call you in the evening, the man answered. I was certain nothing would come of it. Salt Fish, monitoring many of Arafats phone calls, learned of the plan. Late that night, the phone rang in Avnerys hotel room and he was told, Be at the museum checkpoint at exactly 10:00 tomorrow. A man named Ahmed will be waiting for you.MQM in disarray 12 February, 2018 By Asif Haroon Raja

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By By Asif Haroon Raja Related Speakout More on this View All Govt determined to transform Pakistan into truly democratic society: Rasheed

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Pakistan's existence not jeopardised at all: FM Qureshi

Pakistani state is not going to collapse, says Zardari Related News Poll Are you in support of amending the law to raise the strength of the Supreme Court to 27 from 17? The foundations of MQM was laid by mercurial and firebrand Altaf Hussain in 1984 on the pillars of violence, terrorism and fascism. The facade of a political party of middle and lower middle class was built as a smokescreen to hide the crimes of party leadership and to build the image of Altaf Hussain, popularly called as Altaf Bhai, as an icon and a hero. In order to gain full control over the port city of Karachi, the cosmopolitan city was divided into sectors. A militant wing was created under Tanzeemi Committee and Labor Division, which administered sector and unit commanders. Khidmat-e-Khalq Foundation was created to look after the welfare of Mohajirs, but in reality it was a money earning organization to collect funds for the party through animal hides, charity and donations. Mafias extorted money and grabbed land. All militant and political activities were supervised by Rabita Committee, while Nine Zero at Azizabad became the nerve centre (GHQ) where Altaf resided, and was out of bound for all. Extortion, kidnappings for ransom, target killings, murders, robberies and street crimes were organized by sector and unit commanders. Police and civil administration were politicized and monopolized and media terrorized.



The party including its Supremo was controlled by RAW which provided funds, training facilities to the target killers in Dera Dun (India), worked out strategies and assigned targets for target killing or to foment ethnicity and sectarianism. The pattern and tactics were the same as had been employed in former East Pakistan where Mujibur Rahman had been cultivated by India and Mukti Bahini was created to make Bangladesh. MQM was assigned the objective of creating Jinnahpur for Urdu speaking people in Pakistan which encompassed whole of urban Sindh.



The US and UK had evinced interest in Karachi and its seacoast way back in 1982 and had contemplated making Karachi port a commercial free zone port similar to Hong Kong whose 99 years lease was terminating in 1997. Geo-strategically, Karachi seaport was ideally located to meet the strategic interests of USA since it overlooked Iran, Middle East, Central Asia and China. The imperialist powers found the well-educated and secular people of Karachi matching their temperament and most suited to serve their interests. Altaf readily gave his consent to do the bidding of USA and UK.



RAW started making inroads in interior Sindh in 1973 and abetted Sindhu Desh movement led by GM Sayyad. Later on, when PPPs Movement for Restoration of Democracy (MRD) gained momentum in 1983 while Benazir was in exile in London, Indian Lok Sabha passed a resolution similar to the one passed in March 1971 in support of Bengalis after the military crackdown on March 25, 1971. This time, Indira Gandhi pledged support to the Sindhis. In this regard, All Sindhis World Conference was held in New Delhi in 1983, which was chaired by Indira. Although the MRD was crushed by security forces, but it impelled Gen Ziaul Haq to find a countervailing political force to checkmate Sindhi nationalism. It is widely believed that he was behind the creation of MQM.



Besides instigating the Sindhis, RAW also kept provoking the Mohajirs against the Sindhis with a view to creating bad blood between the old and new Sindhis. All Pakistan Mohajir Organization (APSMO) under Karachi University student Altaf Hussain came into being in 1978 on the pattern of East Pakistan Student League in Dacca University, who were trained to use firearms. The MQM was hijacked by RAW soon after its inception and it had a big hand in creating a wide gulf between rural and urban Sindh. By 1986, RAW helped MQM in forming a militant wing and a carbon copy of Bangladesh model was handed over to Altaf. He embarked upon a guided militant program to terrorize the people of Karachi and make them submit to his dictates. He brooked no dissent, and criticism of his policies was not tolerated. The insolent were cruelly bumped off.



Torture cells were opened in each district of Karachi under sector commanders where dissidents were tortured to make them toe the line of Altaf and none else. Strong arm tactics were applied mostly on Urdu speaking people to force them to pledge blind allegiance to Altaf and accept him as a sole leader and savior of Mohajirs. Sack filled dead bodies, Bhatta (extortion), kidnappings, bank robberies, strikes, arson and closing the city became a norm. No-go areas were created in Karachi under the guise of providing security to the vulnerable Mohajirs but it was another step towards gaining control over the city.



Media team of MQM lionized Altaf as a spiritual leader, and built his image as a demagogue, a go-getter and the only hope of Mohajirs who could redress their socio-economic grievances and restore their prestige that had been badly mauled by the Punjabis, Pathans, Sindhis and Baloch living in cosmopolitan city. Suffering from identity crisis and humiliation, they initially placed their trust in Liaqat Ali Khan who had coaxed them in 1949 to leave India and shift to Karachi and help in building Pakistan. Sindhis welcomed them but when the new settlers transgressed and became demanding, conciliation gave way to bitterness. After Liaqat Alis murder in October 1951, the Mohajirs shifted their gaze toward Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah. Her defeat in elections in 1965 against FM Ayub Khan, gravitated the Mohajirs towards Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and Jamiat Ulema Pakistan (JuP). Their grievances intensified during ZA Bhutto rule when he declared Sindhi as a compulsory subject in Sindh and introduced quota system for jobs. Resentful Mohajirs took active part in the PNA movement against Bhutto in 1977 under the wings of religious parties. They might have stayed on with JI and JuP had Gen Zia not ditched the two religious parties in 1985 party-less elections. Their next refuge was MQM under Altaf to seek redressal of real or perceived grievances.



Altaf became popular among the Mohajirs on account of his oratory and fiery speeches. His rabble-rousing style enflamed Mohajir nationalism. He infused aggression into the hearts and minds of docile Mohajirs and provoked them to fight their alleged oppressors tenaciously. He brought them out of their mode of timidity and docility and instilled in them the spirit of fighting. He egged on the Mohajir youth to adopt combativeness as a way of life to protect themselves and their families from the predators that had denied them their due rights and had humiliated them. Making full use of power of gun and bullying tactics, the MQM managed to sweep the local bodies in 1987 and repeated its performance in 1988 general elections in Karachi,



Hyderabad, Mirpur Khas and Sukhar. There on the MQM became a force to reckon with both at Sindh and at federal levels and assumed the role of a kingmaker and a blackmailer.



On taking over power in end 1988, Benazir Bhutto released hundreds of Al-Zulfiqar militants and issued arms licenses to them and other PPP activists liberally. Altaf also armed the MQM activists under the plea of self-protection. By 1991, the MQM had created a state-within-a-state in Karachi and nothing moved without the instructions of Altaf and his kitchen cabinet. The city stood to a standstill on his one call. He turned into a cold blooded monster and got rid of the disobedient or those becoming a threat to him without any sense of remorse. He never groomed his heir successor or let any other leader become popular within the party ranks. Life of a human had no value for him. His life in the company of sycophants revolved around money, power, women, drinks and fame.



It was owing to Altafs arrogance and despotic style of running the party affairs which impelled MQM leaders Afaq Ahmad and Amir Khan to breakaway and form MQM Haqiqi (H) in 1991. Besides the issue of despotism, the other issues were Altafs refusal to share details of finances and his quest to make a separate homeland for the Mohajirs. By that time, new-Sindhis-old Sindhis animus had peaked and several bloody clashes had taken place and Sindh was seen as a wounded province because of MQM militancy in Karachi-Hyderabad and dacoity in interior Sindh. Dacoits living in Katcha and Katcho no-go areas were patronized by Waderas and Patharidars. Sindhi-Punjabi-Pashhtun alliance came into being to be able to confront growing MQM belligerency.



To check the ever growing aggressiveness of MQM in urban Sindh, as well as to end dacoit Raj in interior Sindh, Operation Cleanup was launched by the Army under Gen Asif Nawaz Janjua in May 1992 which initially started in interior Sindh and then in Karachi-Hyderabad. It resulted in mass exodus of MQM leaders including Altaf to London where they sought political asylum. The key fugitives were M. Anwar, Nadim, Nusrat, Tariq Mir, Wasey Jalil and Mustafa Azizabadi. Dr. Imran Farooq joined them in 1999. Welcomed by the British government and MI-6, they were given British residency and passport, extended all possible assistance to settle down in posh area of Edgeware, hire luxury apartments and services of Scotland Yard for security, open their London Secretariat and live a lords life. Expenditure was to be borne by foreign agencies and Rabita Committee in Karachi. Destabilization of Pakistans economic hub centre was the agenda given to Altaf.



The military operation could have cut the militant power of MQM to size but Nawaz Sharif (NS) came to its rescue and called off the operation midway. Courts didnt convict a single militant arrested by the military.



Once PPP government returned to power in 1994, it ordered a police operation under Maj Gen Naseerullah Babar, which continued till its dismissal in November 1996. The operation cracked the back of MQM militant wing, forcing many of the target killers to seek refuge in South Africa and make it their future base of operation in addition to London and Thailand. The MQM having



changed its initials from Mohajir to Mutahida was made a coalition partner in the centre and in Sindh by PML-N govt in February 1997, but NS had to part with it in October 1998 after the murder of illustrious Hakim Said. Thereon the MQM remained in doldrums till it was once again resurrected in 2002 by Gen Musharraf who seized power on October 12, 1999 through a military coup.



During the nine years rule of Musharraf, the MQM was politically and militarily strengthened beyond all proportions. MQM (H) was nearly obliterated and all legal and illegal demands of Altaf were met in return for political support of the MQM. The infamous incident of May 12, 2007 at Karachi in which over 50 political activists were killed, was executed by the MQM goons at the behest of Musharraf and under the patronage of Home Minister Waseem Akhtar, the current mayor of Karachi.



Once PPP and MQM were dry cleaned by the NRO machine in October 2007, which enabled PPP to form a government in March 2008, it made MQM and ANP as its coalition partners in Sindh and in the Centre. PPP-MQM jointly plundered and bloodied Karachi for next five years unchecked. The daily dead count in Karachi was 10-12. Lyari gang sponsored by PPP Home Minister Dr. Zulfiqar Mirza and other banned militant groups joined the fray. Port & Shipping Ministry held by MQM Minister Babar Ghori since 2002 facilitated supply of weapons of all hues to the MQM by making use of the missing NATO containers, while Zulfiqar Mirza issued arms licenses to Lyari gangsters freely. Karachi, the economic lifeline of Pakistan began to die a slow economic death. Not a single killer or corrupt was punished.



Altafs fortunes began to plunge after the murder of one of his founding party leader Dr. Imran Farooq at London on September 16, 2010. Burning of Baldia town factory in which 289 workers were burnt to death in 2012 was the handiwork of MQM sector commander Bhola and his accomplices. Money laundering case was registered against Altaf and others after the raid of Metropolitan Police at their residences/offices in London on December 7, 2012, recovering 500,000 pounds sterling cash. Altaf, Safaraz merchant, Tariq Mir and M. Anwar were involved. It came to light that RAW was providing funds and arms to them for carrying out terrorism in Karachi. This was ascertained from the list of weapons and explosives recovered from Altafs house. The list matched with the weapons recovered by Rangers from Azizabad.



Disturbed by PTIs activism in Karachi, Altaf incited his followers to resort to violence against PTI supporters. One of PTIs political activist Dr. Zahra was killed by MQM killer Kaleem in May 2013. Large numbers of complaints were made to the London Police by Pakistanis and extreme pressure was exerted on UK government to restrain Altaf. Case of inciting violence was registered against him in London.



June 2013 elections added to the woes of Altaf because of PTI gaining political space in Karachi. For the first time MQMs heartland was breached. MQM got another jolt when it was not accepted as a coalition partner by PPP in Sindh and PML-N in the Centre.



Altaf and five co-accused were arrested on June 3, 2014 on money laundering charges but were given bail. After prolonged investigations, the case before reaching the court was abruptly closed on the plea of insufficient evidence. What more evidence was required after recovering hand written list of weapons? Hand writing resembled that of a London based senior MQM leader. Sarfaraz, Anwar and Tariq had admitted before London Police that money was received from RAW for purchase of weapons. Oddly, iIt was ruled that the case will never be re-opened.



Altafs conviction would have brought disrepute to RAW, which was unacceptable to India. Nothing has come out of Dr. Imran murder case in spite of the fact that Pakistan arrested the murderers Mohsin and Kashif, and their handlers Moazam and Shamim. It became crystal clear that UK was an involved party and Altaf was its asset.



Initiation of Rangers operation in Karachi in September 2013 further vexed Altaf and he started crying that it was MQM specific. Raid on Nine Zero in March 2015 and again in July and arrest of several notorious target killers made him go berserk. Apart from flinging fabricated allegations, he openly threatened the Rangers. Two MQM activists arrested by SSP Rao Anwar on April 30, 2015 revealed before the media that MQM activists had been going to India via Bangkok to receive training from RAW and were handled by runaway Javed Langra who had fled to India in 1992. Revelations made by Saulat Mirza in May 2015 before his hanging and by arrested hardcore MQM militants exposed the dirty work of MQM. After his earlier outburst in March, Altaf again flared up in July that year and appealed to the US, India, RAW and the UN to intervene in Karachi and save the Mohajirs from persecution and elimination. MQMs deep rooted connection with RAW since 1980s came to light after the arrest of Kalbushan Jhadav in March 2016.



Altaf received another blow when Mustafa Kamal, once his apple of the eye and Mayor of Karachi, along with another MQM stalwart Anis Qaimkhani announced their detachment from Altaf and decided to form their own party Pakistan-Sarzamin Party (PSP) in March 2016. Kamal provided more details about MQM terrorism and connection with RAW. Further details were given by British columnist Bennet Jones, BBC video, ex RAW chief in his interview and JIT probe. According to Shehryar Niazi, Altaf confessed to British authorities of his linkage with RAW. Indian national M. Anwar, a key figure in London Secretariat was the linchpin connecting MQM with RAW.



Altafs madness climaxed on August 22, 2016 when during his telephonic speech to the MQM robots, he not only chanted anti-Pakistan slogans and fired salvos of hate against Pakistan institutions, he also once again requested the outside powers to intervene, and instructed his activists to resort to violence against anti-MQM media channels. His speech proved beyond doubt that Altaf had all along been pursuing a dangerous agenda against the integrity of Pakistan.



His vitriolic speech dug the last nail in his coffin, and it led to birth of another party MQM (Pakistan) from within MQM ranks under Altafs most trusted lieutenant Farooq Sattar, who had been heading Rabita Committee for a long time. A ban was imposed on Altafs telephonic speeches and he was isolated. An effort was made to get him back for trials through the Interpol



but the British government didnt cooperate. Altaf and his London team have continued to indulge in anti-Pakistan rhetoric, but for unknown reasons they have so far not been declared traitors and charge-sheeted in absentia. MQM (H) merged in Sattars faction.



Since August 22, 2017, fortunes of three factions of MQM, one in London, and two in Karachi, are constantly sliding downwards. MQM (P) and PSP have failed to reconcile and merge due to clash of personality between Kamal and Sattar, both vying to take the place of Altaf. Major impediment in their merger is the Altaf vote bank, which is still the heaviest and till recent, Altafs fans have remained in two minds which faction to support. They were hopeful that the split was temporary and secretly both Mustafa and particularly Sattar were aligned with Altaf. They are of the view that no one else has the capacity to fill Altafs vacuum and attain the same kind of monopoly.



Altaf who is suffering from multiple diseases including psychic disorder, has lost his respect in the eyes of Pakistanis who view him as a RAW agent and a traitor. Mustafa openly censures Altaf but has welcomed all the disreputable target killers and sector/unit commanders of MQM in his party. Although he has carried out grass-root levels reorganization but very few MQM MNAs, MPAs and senators have joined him. Sattar has an edge over his rival since most of legislators and senators are in his party. But this edge seem to have slipped out of his hands on account of differences over names finalized for Senate elections due on March 3, and tiff between Sattar and other leading lights led by Amir Khan. The party has split into two after Sattar was dethroned from Chairman Rabita Committee seat. PPP, PTI, PML-N, JI and ANP in the meanwhile are busy trying to seek political benefits out of the disarray in MQM factions, hoping to capture few seats in urban Sindh.



The MQM under Altaf that had reigned supreme in Karachi for the last 30 years has virtually collapsed with little possibility of regaining its old clout. Altafs call for shutter down were ignored by the people and business community. He has cooked his goose due to his own misdoings. The people of Karachi having suffered a great deal at the hands of MQM hoodlums are feeling relieved and are happy to see lights returning to Karachi after a very long time and shudder at the thought of Altafs return to power. Although Sindh Assembly passed a resolution in September 2016 to try Altaf under Article 6, Bilawal Bhutto called him uncle and gave him a clean chit. Altafs politics has caused incalculable harm to the youth of Urdu speaking community in Karachi, which had left studies in late 1980s and opted for violence and easy money.



People of Karachi are feeling uneasy and are fearful that Kamal or Sattar may not restart the politics of violence and agitation particularly after seeing that instead of cleansing their respective parties of the killers of Altaf and opting for crime free members believing in pure politics, they have greeted all the old crooks and criminals. Hands of all the electable in both factions are soaked in blood. Karachiites will no more tolerate bloodletting and criminal activities or another NRO for the criminals and would like them to be punished. At the same time, it is high time for the old and new Sindhis to learn lessons, shun bitterness, infighting and immoral



practices, reconcile and co-exist harmoniously and jointly work to keep the port city peaceful and develop Sindh.



Unity among the state institutions and provinces has become all the more vital in the wake of very grave threat posed by Indo-US-Afghan-Israeli nexus. The US is partnering India to impose the latter's hegemony in South Asia and this threat has now become menacing. Faced with such peril, patriotic people should bury their differences, shun negativism and parochialism, start thinking as Pakistanis and form a united front. This is not the time to destabilize the government without thinking as to what will follow. Enemies are trying hard to create a political logjam and chaos. It is also not the time to demonize the Army and ISI, or to create distrust between the military, the government and the judiciary. Promoting ethnic, parochial and religious divisions and strife is the work of the enemy as is undermining morale of the people by casting doubts and misgivings, spreading untruths and rumors.



The writer is a retired Brig, defence analyst, columnist and author of five books. asifharoonraja@gmail.comIn a small victory for prosecutors, a federal judge overseeing a sprawling New York corruption case will allow the governments key witness to wear a suit in court  rather than jail attire  after his arrest last week for a likely violation of his bail conditions.

But whether the sartorial choices of the witness, Todd R. Howe, will be enough to distract jurors from the inconvenient fact of his incarceration remains to be seen, as defense lawyers are sure to seize upon his arrest as confirmation of their arguments that Mr. Howe is unreliable, untrustworthy and out to save his own skin.

Mr. Howe is a disgraced former lobbyist who pleaded guilty to eight felonies and is cooperating with government in the case against Joseph Percoco, once one of Gov. Andrew M. Cuomos top aides, and three other defendants.

Mr. Howe was arrested in Manhattan on Thursday night, after a cross-examination in court that afternoon revealed that he had attempted to defraud a credit card company after his cooperation agreement was finalized in 2016. Mr. Howe had his bail revoked and was taken into custody at his hotel room and transported to the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Lower Manhattan.The situation has been a reminder of how the storms devastation continues to ripple five months after Maria raked over the island. The families in the hotels have been part of an exodus as Puerto Rico has struggled to recover. Researchers have projected that by next year, nearly a half-million will have left Puerto Rico for the mainland United States after the hurricane.

Where the families in the hotels will ultimately end up remains to be seen.

In lobby of the Hartford hotel, one woman said that her daughter had gotten a nursing job and that her family was looking for an apartment. Among others, there was an air of weariness, as they anguished over what might come next. Job interviews had been unsuccessful or language barriers made it difficult to find work. Some were simply aimless as weeks went by with little to do. When Ms. Febres needed to go to the store, her family made the three-mile walk to a Walmart just because they wanted to burn energy.

Many were still reeling from the trauma that has festered since the storm.

Ms. Arroyo was flown to New York City on Nov. 15 and spent two weeks with an aunt before checking into a hotel in Corona, Queens. She suffers from a litany of medical conditions, including diabetes and depression. She needs a wheelchair and is blind in her left eye, which is covered by a patch of white gauze taped to her reading glasses.

After the storm and before her evacuation to New York, she was largely confined to her bed in her home in Ponce, cared for by her fathers widow. Stuck in sweltering heat, she worried that wounds on her body would become infected. She was so fearful she even wrote a will and instructions to cremate her remains on the back of a photograph of her father and mother, which she clutched in her hands as she slept.

I dont know how I survived, she said.

Yanitza Cruz, who is nearly eight months pregnant, was told when she checked into the hotel in Queens in December that she could stay until Feb. 14. She has become increasingly worried as the deadline approaches; her calls to FEMA yielded few answers. When she tried to check the status of her case online, the website said it had been withdrawn.

The clock is ticking, she said. Time is against us.

She traveled to Queens with her husband, Joel Garcia, and 5-year-old daughter, Janesty, from the mountain town of Orocovis, southwest of San Juan. They had been drawn by the promise that New York appeared to offer, fueling hopes of getting an apartment and, for Mr. Garcia, becoming a licensed barber in the city he saw as a barbershop mecca. It seemed different from home, where they struggled even before the hurricane.Republicans in Congress and the Trump administration repealed the penalties associated with the Affordable Care Acts individual mandate in the tax act that passed in December. Now they need to replace the mandate with something that will address rising premiums and command broader support. Automatic enrollment into health insurance plans is a good place to start.

A replacement for the mandate is needed because the A.C.A.s insurance rules are still in place. Those rules, which enjoy bipartisan support, protect the sick by requiring insurers to charge the same premiums to all consumers of the same age without consideration of their health status. The mandate was supposed to encourage the healthy to stay continuously insured, through a federal tax assessment for every month without coverage, even though they could drop coverage and later acquire it when needed, without paying higher premiums. With enforcement of the mandate ending in 2019, more healthy people may leave the A.C.A.s exchanges, driving up premiums even faster for those who remain in the market.

Automatic enrollment counters the natural human inclinations toward myopia and inertia. Many people do not plan adequately for contingencies, either because they dont want to or because they lack the resources to do so. Further, the natural disinclination toward taking action means some consumers will not jump through the hoops necessary to sign up for benefits even if they find what is being offered attractive.

Employers use automatic enrollment today in their pension plans, and it works. Firms place workers into plans and set default contribution rates for them. Workers retain the right to change their rates or their investment funds, or to stop contributing altogether. More than two-thirds of all firms sponsoring pension plans use automatic enrollment to increase participation among workers who do not opt in to the plans on their own. The percentage of firms with at least an 80 percent participation rate in their defined contribution retirement plans has increased to 64 percent in 2014 from 50 percent in 2010, largely because of automatic enrollment.To the Editor:

Re Invitation to South Korea May Undercut the U.S. (front page, Feb. 11):

What a pity that our nation spurns a potential opportunity for dialogue about Korea at such a joyful gathering as the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Thankfully, we have a spirited team of wonderful athletes there to show the world  and especially the two Koreas  who Americans can really be, even while Vice President Mike Pence can only stoop to finger-wagging, symbolic and otherwise.

Meanwhile, the two Koreas themselves seem to be flirting, tentatively at least, with what could become more overt overtures to peace. It is too early to foretell what might happen, of course; the arc of history does not bend toward peace on the Korean Peninsula. But the tentative steps taken by the two Koreas are much more positive developments than is the sour bellicosity of the Trump administration.

At the moment, at least, there is a small glimmer of hope for peace between the Koreas, while there is none while Mr. Trump elects to inject his bellicosity into the problem.

KARL J. HITTELMAN

CORTE MADERA, CALIF.

To the Editor:

Re Sibling Emissary From North Korea Overshadows Pence and His Message (news article, Feb. 12):

Admittedly, international diplomacy is highly complex. However, it seems that a great opportunity was missed when Vice President Mike Pence failed to acknowledge and shake hands with Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Koreas leader, Kim Jong-un.Israel predicted early on that these units guns would eventually be turned against it. But in those days, the Islamic State was seen as the embodiment of all evil and accordingly anyone fighting it was one of the good guys. No one heeded Israels warnings.

For its part, Israel has conducted more than 100 bombing and missile raids in Syria, without ever admitting it or taking responsibility, against storage sites for weapons and convoys supplying the Iranian-led forces.

With the Syrian Army itself extended to its limits combating rebels, and the Iranians and Hezbollah helping it in the heavy fighting, this tripartite alliance was forced to swallow time after time some bitter truths: They recognized that Mossad and Israeli military intelligence knew how, where and when they were operating, and they knew that they wouldnt be able to respond to the Israeli raids without suffering heavy losses.

When Russian forces entered Syria in 2015 and it became clear that the United States would not take real measures to counter Mr. Putins moves, Mr. Netanyahu managed to set up a secret communications channel between himself and the Russian president, according to my sources in Israeli intelligence, as well as an encrypted phone line for communication between Israel and the Russian military and intelligence in order to prevent clashes between Israeli and Russian forces in Syria.

But that limited amount of tactical coordination hasnt led Russia to understand Israels strategic needs. As an Assad victory approaches, Israel has been asking Russia to guarantee that the Iranians will leave Syria once the war is over. Those requests have been met with indifference in Moscow. Russia wants to build a secure foothold in the Middle East and its policy requires it to maintain good relations with Iran.

Israel has also asked the Trump administration several times to do something to stop the situation from deteriorating. Last August, a high-ranking delegation visited Washington, including Yossi Cohen, the director of the Mossad, and Herzl Halevi, the head of Israeli military intelligence. They presented H. R. McMaster, Mr. Trumps national security adviser, with, according to my sources, sensitive intelligence material, credible and of great concern about Iranian and Hezbollah plans to attack Israel on the border with Syria. Hezbollah, they said, was building a significant military presence in Syria and Iran was planning to set up a naval base on the Mediterranean at the port of Tartus.Is it churn, an exodus or a purge?



That is the key question for a series of departures and reassignments that are reshaping who runs law enforcement in the Trump administration. Rachel Brand, the prosecutor next in line, after Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, to oversee the special counsel Robert Mueller, confirmed her departure on Friday night, after just nine months on the job.

She follows the F.B.I. director James Comey, his deputy, his general counsel, an acting assistant attorney general (in the National Security Division) and other top officials who are now fired, gone or reassigned.

After President Trump fired Mr. Comey, in fact, a news report listed the top three officials left running the Russia probe last May. Two of them are now out. The third, Mr. Rosenstein, was recently publicly undercut by Mr. Trump, who suggested to reporters that he did not have confidence in him.

These dramatic staffing shifts are occurring against the backdrop of a sustained attack on law enforcement by the president and his allies. If this is a partisan purge, it is slowly grinding forward in plain sight.This article is part of the Opinion Today newsletter. You can sign up here to receive the newsletter each weekday.

My column today is about a recurring phenomenon: Trumpism for thee and not for me.

President Trump and his congressional allies keep trying to protect their own constituents and allies from the agenda theyre putting in place for the rest of the country. Its happened on offshore drilling, health care and taxes. And its a sign that Trump and congressional leaders know how unpopular their agenda is. Theyre trying to protect their own supporters from it.

One of the stories I tell in the column is about Berea College, a small college in Kentucky that was the beneficiary of a special carve-out in last weeks spending bill. The carve-out exempts Berea from a tax on colleges with substantial endowments. Mitch McConnell, the Senate majority leader, went out of his way to protect Berea, the only college in Kentucky  the state he represents  that would have been subject to the tax.

I find this episode especially unfortunate because Congress could have used Bereas example to pass a positive piece of education policy.For centuries, female artists were mostly absent from museums. But as more work by women is organized into surveys and retrospectives, there is an odd addition  their wardrobe. Is this an act of condescension  or a recognition that an artists style is inseparable from her art? Plus: Five designers imagine a working uniform for a female artist from history, exclusively for T.

THERES A WHITE silk blouse that Georgia OKeeffe saved from her youth. Its delicacy is what makes it remarkable: sheer, with dozens of pintucks running down the shoulders and the neckline, all of it hand-sewn. At the bottom of the scooped neck, at the slight dip where the collarbones meet, is a flower, made of the same silk fabric, pulled together with more pin tucks. It resembles an orchid in peak bloom. The back has been carefully patched and mended numerous times. It is like a work of art.

OKeeffe loved her clothes. Her housekeeper remarked in 1974 to The New Yorker: Miss OKeeffe has a hundred dresses, but theyre all alike, except that some are black instead of white. She was fond of soft suede Ferragamo flats in colors ranging from matte black to a recessive teal blue. She liked low heels from Saks Fifth Avenue, the tops sewn together with raised seams, resembling the veins of a leaf. She favored dresses cut on the bias, tunics and slip-over smocks that stopped just below the knee. When she visited New York City, she wore severe two-piece skirt suits with crisp, collared blouses, and when she was back home in the high desert of New Mexico, she wore blue jeans, long-sleeved chambray shirts and simple cotton wrap dresses buckled at the waist. She preferred black when her picture was being taken, but she liked color, too: pink, sky blue, navy, even red. She kept her hair combed straight back, neatly twisted into a bun that resembled the brass pin her friend, fellow artist Alexander Calder, once gave her, with a coil shaped like the O of her name.

As one of Americas most famous 20th-century artists, OKeeffe has always served as a figurehead for different tribes and their respective agendas: a revered painter in the eyes of feminists; a style icon to designers and fashion photographers. Her celebrity meant she was worshiped by those who were as interested in how she looked  and what that look represented  as in what she made. Whatever risks exist in objectifying OKeeffe, her legacy reveals an artistry of self-presentation. A selection of her closet  along with 98 photographs of OKeeffe, and a selection of 36 paintings  was on display for the first time at the Brooklyn Museum last year, in a retrospective of OKeeffes life and work entitled Georgia OKeeffe: Living Modern.In Pariss Fourth Arrondissement, on Ile de la Cite, a little island between the Marais and the Jardin du Luxembourg, is a small flower market. Recently, it was the unexpected site of a jewelry presentation: Stephanie Dheygere launched her eponymous accessories brand in one of the markets hothouse-like green steel pavilions where a variety of seasonal and exotic flowers are sold daily.

I really wanted a showroom that represented the heart of the collection and brand, says the Belgian-born, Paris-based designer, who has spent the past seven years at an array of major fashion houses. Laid out on the flower shops shelves were Dheygeres designs: a line of diminutively sized leather bags, semitransparent belts and cleverly conceived jewelry  pieces that feel playful and delightfully idiosyncratic. Ive had this idea of designing jewelry that can carry flowers for a very long time. It never really felt right to propose this idea to one of my clients, which made me realize that its a very personal idea that Id rather keep to myself.

This first collection is titled The Flower Shop, and flowers are central to the Dheygere brand. I love buying fresh flowers, says Dheygere, and I kept on thinking, how cool would it be if I could go to the flower shop and just pick a flower to match my outfit?

Image Pieces from Stephanie Dheygeres fall/winter 2018 collection. Credit... Arnaud Lajeunie

Dheygere is something of an industry insider. She studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp with hopes of working at Chanel. Then, she recounts, she accidentally ended up at Margiela, a brand I would never have considered at first. It turned out to be the best opportunity ever. When I left school, I was trained to be a fashion designer  it never occurred to me that I would become an accessories designer.MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.  A few years ago, Google created a new kind of computer chip to help power its giant artificial intelligence systems. These chips were designed to handle the complex processes that some believe will be a key to the future of the computer industry.

On Monday, the internet giant said it would allow other companies to buy access to those chips through its cloud-computing service. Google hopes to build a new business around the chips, called tensor processing units, or T.P.U.s.

We are trying to reach as many people as we can as quickly as we can, said Zak Stone, who works alongside the small team of Google engineers that designs these chips.

Googles move highlights several sweeping changes in the way modern technology is built and operated. Google is in the vanguard of a movement to design chips specifically for artificial intelligence, a worldwide push that includes dozens of start-ups as well as familiar names like Intel, Qualcomm and Nvidia.Asma Jahangir passed away in Lahore

Renowned senior lawyer and human rights activist Asma Jahangir passed away in Lahore on Sunday. She is survived by a son and two daughters.

People gather at Asma Jahangir's residence, following her death, in Lahore. Asma Jahangir had suffered from a cardiac arrest and was subsequently shifted to a hospital, where she breathed her last. She was 66.



Known for her outspoken nature and unrelenting pursuit for human rights  as well as for remaining undaunted in the face of extreme pressure and opposition  Jahangir will be remembered as a champion of the disenfranchised and for her services towards building a democratic and more inclusive Pakistan.



Jahangir was born in Lahore in January 1952.



She received a bachelor's degree from Kinnaird College and an LLB from Punjab University. She was called to the Lahore High Court in 1980 and to the Supreme Court in 1982. She later went on to become the first woman to serve as president of the Supreme Court Bar Association.



She became a pro-democracy activist and was jailed in 1983 for participating in the Movement for the Restoration of Democracy, which agitated against military dictator Ziaul Haq's regime.



She was also active in the 2007 Lawyers' Movement, for which she was put under house arrest.



She co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, and the Women's Action Forum.



She received several awards, including a Hilal-i-Imtiaz in 2010 and a Sitara-i-Imtiaz. She was also awarded a Unesco/Bilbao Prize for the Promotion of a Culture of Human Rights and an Officier de la Legion d'honneur by France.



She also received the 2014 Right Livelihood Award and the 2010 Freedom Award from the International Rescue Committee.



The Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Mian Saqib Nisar, and other Supreme Court judges expressed deep sorrow and grief on her demise in a statement.

Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar arrives at Asma Jahangir's residence to condole with her family. Khurshid Kasuri and PPP leader Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan are behind him.



They extended their heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathies to members of the grieved family while praising her services for the independence of the judiciary, rule of law and supremacy of the Constitution.



"She was an outspoken and courageous lady, and had risen to prominence by sheer dint of hard work, diligence and commitment to the legal profession," the judges of the apex court said.



President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi also expressed their sorrow over Jahangir's demise, Radio Pakistan reported.



The president, in his condolence message, said Jahangir had played an "unforgettable role" for the supremacy of law, democracy and human rights.



PM Abbasi likewise lauded Jahangir for her "immense contribution towards upholding rule of law, democracy and safeguarding human rights."



He termed her demise as a great loss for legal fraternity.



Minister of State for Information Marriyum Aurangzeb said Jahangir's struggle is a bright chapter in the constitutional, legal, and democratic history of Pakistan.



She said that the entire Pakistan is praying peace for Asma Jahangir's soul.



Chairman Senate Mian Raza Rabbani, Deputy Chairman Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Syed Khursheed Shah also expressed grief over the Jahangir's passing.



Meanwhile, the Pakistan Bar Council announced three days of mourning across the country from tomorrow.



Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has also announced to observe a day of mourning across the province. Moreover, Pakistan People's Party has suspended activities for one day to mourn the death of Asma Jehangir.Both Battle, which starred Miriam Hopkins and never made it to Broadway, and Orpheus were flops. But what came in between were the works that made Williams a literary titan, including The Glass Menagerie (1945), his breakthrough play, which he said ushered in the catastrophe of success; Streetcar (1947), his masterpiece; The Rose Tattoo (1951, and his only Tony Award winner); and Cat, his personal favorite.

These productions are mostly represented here on paper, via rough drafts, scripts, programs, notebooks, correspondence and sketches for sets. In other words, the living flux that is theater is reduced to two dimensions.

Look closer, though, at the framed pages on display, and a fraught and excited dialogue surfaces, reminding us that what is now archival was once trembling potential. Penciled notations on the rough drafts show a writer still sculpting and shaving material that, in its finished form, has acquired the solidity of sacred texts in a canon.

But how fungible they once were, names and characters and stories still swirling before settling into the shapes of posterity, and how different they might have been. The typewritten text for a late addition to The Glass Menagerie, its concluding scene, offers that much-quoted benediction from its narrator, Tom, to his sister: Blow out your candles, Laura.

Those are not, however, the plays last words. They are And so, goodbye. And we can see here that this curtain-closing farewell has been penciled in, not by Williams, but by the producer of the original production of Menagerie, Margo Jones.

Sequential versions of what would become Streetcar are on display across a long wall. One draft (dated 1945-46) is titled The Passion of a Moth, and instructions, in the authors hand on the upper right corner of the title page, read, Typist  please change Ralph to Stanley whenever found in script. The Blanche character appears as Gladys in a precursor to Streetcar called Interior: Panic, a title that speaks volumes about both the characters and her creators states of mind.Gerrymandering is not the only reason Democrats are at a disadvantage. Republicans also have the advantage of incumbency, which, on average, allows members to run about seven percentage points ahead of the national party.

But Republicans have gradually been losing the advantages of incumbency as well, most obviously because of 34 recent retirements in Republican-held congressional districts.

Over all, the number of G.O.P. retirements in plausibly competitive districts isnt extraordinarily high. But some of the Republican retirements have been especially damaging: longtime incumbents who have a tradition of running far ahead of the national party and dissuading strong challengers, like New Jerseys Frank LoBiondo or Pennsylvanias Charlie Dent. Their retirements could easily be the difference between a non-competitive race and a Democratic victory.

The Republican incumbency advantage has diminished in another way: Democratic recruitment and fund-raising. A strong Democratic recruit  like a military veteran or an elected official  can cut into that advantage, especially with strong fund-raising numbers.

As measured by biographical indicators like military experience or past elected officials, Democratic recruitment is only somewhat above average at this stage. But much like the Republican retirements, the best Democratic recruits have often been extremely valuable.

Often, Democrats have succeeded in finding their very best candidates in white working-class districts where President Trump fared well in 2016. His strength threatened to move many traditional battlegrounds into the Republican column. The Democratic path to a House majority arguably looked even more difficult after the 2016 presidential than it did before  even though Democrats picked up seven seats in that election, since so many traditional battleground districts swung hard for Mr. Trump.Good morning.

(Want to get California Today by email? Heres the sign-up.)

Shes only 17, and shes never competed at an Olympics, but Chloe Kim is one of the athletes at this Winter Games whom everyone is watching.

Born in Long Beach to Korean immigrants, Ms. Kim started snowboarding before most kids learn to read. At age 4 she began taking trips to Mountain High with her father, Jong Jin Kim, where, together, they learned to navigate the slopes.

We both had no idea what we were doing, shes conceded.

That didnt last long.

Ms. Kim won three gold medals at the X Games, all before age 16. She qualified for the Sochi Olympics but didnt go, because, at 13, she was too young.

Then, in 2016, Ms. Kim became the first woman to land back-to-back 1080s in competition. (Yep, thats three full rotations on one side of the halfpipe followed by three more on the other.)The politicians are using us like a sport, you know, theyre using us like punching bags. Democrats and Republicans alike have to stand up for us because there are DACA beneficiaries in every state. I was brought when I was 11  ... when I was 7, from Brazil. I was about 10. I was 12 years old. I was 7 years old.  ... about 8 years old. We crossed the border, but we were little. So Ive been here 18 years. Im 29 years old. I am 20. I am 19 years old. Ive been here for 21 years. I am 27 years old now. I am 23 years old and I am originally from Mexico. When DACA was announced, I remember exactly where I was in 2012. I was at the Museum of American History. Before DACA I always felt like I was in between two worlds. I was born in Honduras. But if I were to go back to Honduras, its like Im foreign to them. Its a tug of war. When youre undocumented, youre always just aware of the situations, of the locations, who you were talking to, how you are interacting with folks, ensuring that you dont do anything that will bring attention to you because you live a life of shadows. You know, I have been able to accomplish a lot more than when I was undocumented. To get a social security number, loans from the bank, a better job. Every time my parents call me after 11 p.m., its like my heart is racing. When you are an immigrant in this country, you wake up every day with the fear that you could be taken away, right, that your family could be broken up. I have been preparing my kids of, for, you know, These are the risk[s]. This could happen to your dad and to me. I just cant imagine, you know, my nieces and nephews being separated from their parents or them going back to a country that they dont know because this is their home. They shouldnt live with that fear that I had to grow up with. Thats not a normal life. Thats not normal. And I know that like my friends that are U.S. citizens dont go through that. And nobody should go through that. Im not leaving my home, and I think if Trump ever wanted to talk to us, if he wanted to talk to these Dreamers he would realize that we love this country. We want to stay here, and ...   ... if its taken away, Im losing my job, Im losing the opportunity to work and school. People dont understand but its a big thing, its a huge thing, its privileges that some people here take for granted. Taking DACA away is like taking a family member away from me. That wall that Donald Trump wants to build, you know, its putting a wall in front of me where I wont be able to move forward. You are not just taking something away from us, but youre taking something away from this country. This land is not a white America. Its not. This is a land of immigrants. I mean, I was already a person before DACA. A lot of people say, Oh, you know, whats going to happen after DACA? Im not going down without a fight. You know, whatever happens next, I love this country and I belong here. Im fighting for my family, Im fighting for the friends of mine that cant even stand up because theyre scared. We just want to stay here and contribute to this country, to the economy ... We are good people. Were not criminals.But the Trump administrations proposed budget would still bloat the federal deficit, adding $7 trillion over the next decade. Thats despite proposed cuts to domestic programs like Medicare and welfare and slashing agency budgets up and down the government.

Heres a look at some of what the administration is proposing:

Cuts to Domestic Spending

The budget includes more than $3 trillion in proposed reductions to federal spending over a decade. Nearly half of that comes from a sort-of gimmick: The two penny plan, which would cut nondefense discretionary spending by 2 percent a year, every year. That compounds to roughly a 40 percent cut. It would be an aggressive  and largely politically unrealistic  number in any circumstance, but it appears especially so this year, because Congress just reached an agreement, which Mr. Trump signed, to raise spending caps for nondefense discretionary programs by 10 percent.

Rosy Assumptions on the Economys Growth

Mr. Trumps plan could easily result in much larger federal deficits.

The administration made its calculations using assumptions about the nations economic trajectory that are more optimistic than the consensus among private-sector forecasters, or the assumptions used by other parts of the government.

The forecasts in Mondays plan are also significantly more optimistic than the Trump administration itself used in its budget calculations last year.

Most notably, the administration projected annualized economic growth of 3.1 percent over the next three years. The Federal Reserve in December projected annualized growth of 2.2 percent over that period. The Survey of Professional Forecasters estimated the annualized growth rate at about 2.4 percent. In May, a Florida teenager, Devon Arthurs, told the police he had killed two of his neo-Nazi roommates for disrespecting his Muslim faith. (He had recently converted.) His arrest led to the discovery that a fourth roommate, Brandon Russell, had been stockpiling explosive material. Mr. Russell, who told law enforcement officials he was a member of Atomwaffen, was revealed to be a founding member of the group, and was sentenced to five years in prison for having stockpiled the explosives.

 In December, a husband and wife were shot dead in their Virginia home three days before Christmas by a teenage neo-Nazi. The suspect was identified by HuffPost as Nicholas Giampa, which found him to have been influenced by neo-Nazi literature republished online by Atomwaffen.

 Last month, ProPublica reported that Samuel Woodward, who has been charged with the murder of a college student, Blaze Bernstein, was a member of the group.

The organization has promoted its cause on college campuses in Washington, Pennsylvania and Illinois, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

Is the F.B.I. investigating Atomwaffen?

An F.B.I. spokesman would not comment directly.

The F.B.I. does not and will not police ideology, but has been investigating the criminal activities of white supremacy extremists for nearly a century, he said. When an individual takes violent action based on belief or ideology and breaks the law, the F.B.I. will enforce the rule of law.

In an interview Friday, Danny Coulson, the former deputy assistant director of the F.B.I., explained that the bureau was somewhat constrained in what it could do when no violence had been committed.

Mr. Coulson was one of the leaders of the investigation into the 1995 bombing of the federal building in Oklahoma City by Timothy McVeigh, who is much admired in Atomwaffen literature. He also led the operation that ended in the death of the neo-Nazi leader Robert Jay Mathews and helped bring to justice the white supremacists of the Covenant, Sword and Arm of the Lord.The personal costs are far greater. About 20 percent to 30 percent of patients die within a year following a hip fracture and, the researchers reported, Of those who survive, many do not regain their pre-fracture level of function. About 50 percent of patients with hip fractures will never be able to ambulate without assistance and 25 percent will require long-term care.

A number of factors may have contributed to the downward trend in hip fractures that ended in 2012, according to Dr. Ethel Siris, a co-author of the new study and director of the Toni Stabile Osteoporosis Center of the Columbia University Medical Center in New York.

The population may be getting healthier, people are doing more exercise and may be more careful about falling, she suggested in an interview. But most likely a leading factor, she and her co-authors believe, was the introduction in 1995 of the drug Fosamax, a bisphosphonate that slows or prevents the loss of bone density, resulting in stronger bones.

Fosamax is now available generically as alendronate, and has been joined by several other medications capable of promoting stronger bones. However, Dr. Siris said, There is clearly a treatment gap. Prescriptions have fallen off, and even when people at risk are offered medication, they are refusing to take it.

Millions of prospective patients who could benefit from bone-preserving drugs are now afraid to take them. The fear probably has its roots in overly aggressive marketing and doctors who overprescribed bisphosphonates for every patient in the beginning stages of bone loss, a condition called osteopenia, with treatment often continued years longer than now considered appropriate.

Then in the early 2000s, alarming news reports began to appear linking extended use of bisphosphonates to two uncommon bone problems: a very rare fracture of the femur and an even rarer condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw. A fear of these complications resulted in more than a 50 percent decline in bisphosphonate use from 2008 to 2012, Dr. Khosla said.

At the same time, Medicare reimbursements for bone density tests were sharply reduced, and doctors who did them in private offices could no longer afford to, which limited patient access and diagnosis and treatment of serious bone loss despite major improvements in treatment guidelines, Dr. Lewiecki said.Natural gas-fired water heaters and cooking stoves have become more common in China as living standards have risen, replacing older coal and wood-powered devices. Water heaters in bathrooms, where carbon monoxide can accumulate quickly in a small space, appear to be deadliest of all, the reports said.

Its often the case that by the time medical workers break into the door, its already too late, Yang Shixiong, the director of an emergency medical center in Nanning, the capital of Guangxi, told China National Radio. Every winter there are many reports like this, but every year its the same, and theres no clear improvement.

The reports did not say how the death rate this winter compared with previous ones.

But some medical experts in Guangxi suggested that the carbon monoxide deaths reflected growing use of poorly installed gas heaters, as well as an unusually long and sharp cold spell across the region. Too many residents turned on faulty heaters and then shut windows and doors to keep in the warmth, trapping in the gas, they said.

Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintended carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. China does not release similar nationwide estimates, but the number is likely to be much higher.

The reports of poisonings in Guangxi gave examples of whole families overcome by carbon monoxide. In the city of Liuzhou, ambulance workers found a family of three on Wednesday that had apparently been killed by the gas  the mother in the bathroom, the father in a bedroom doorway and their daughter on a bed, the official Guangxi news service reported. In another city, a father and his 2-year-old son died in the shower.A much larger-scale operation is needed, she said. It hasnt been monitored. Its a mystery.

In Beijing, officials have been eager to demonstrate that the government was doing everything possible first to respond to the disaster and then to protect the health of its economically and politically sensitive fishing industry, which employs 14 million people.

They have issued regular statements and held briefings, showing video of efforts to clean up the condensate and to monitor the sunken wreck, which was located at a depth of 115 meters, or about 377 feet. It is believed to still be leaking condensate and other fuels.

Han Xu, deputy director of the fisheries administration bureau of the Ministry of Agriculture, told reporters at a news conference in Beijing late last month that the accident had a certain impact on the density of fishery resources in the area, but that the government did not yet know the extent of the threat.

At present, the investigation and monitoring are still ongoing and we are awaiting results of investigations into pollution and successive fishery resource investigations, he said.

In the meantime, the authorities have ordered a ban on fishing in the areas affected.

In the East River Fish Market in Putuo, one seller brusquely dismissed questions about the spill as she stood beside a stall full of fish, including a tuna selling for roughly $100. Our fish are not from out there, she said, though some of them very likely were.NEW DELHI  The night train to Silchar was moving fast  too fast, the authorities say.

As it chugged into a forested area of northeastern India on Saturday night, a group of villagers waved their flashlights frantically, urging the driver to slow down. He didnt know why, but he soon found out.

Ahead in the darkness, a large herd of elephants was ambling across the railway tracks. When the train driver finally saw what was in front of him, he hit the emergency brake, railway officials said, but it was too late.

The 14-car passenger train plowed right into the herd. Two calves and two adult elephants were killed instantly, and an adult elephant that was badly injured died on Monday. Some local news reports said that several baby elephants had not even moved as the train approached, and that adult elephants had sought to protect them by surrounding them.

Indian forestry officials said the warnings had been ignored for a simple reason: The train was running 10 minutes late.Dr Farooq Sattar dissolved Rabita Committee 12 February, 2018



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Hand Wash and Toiletries in Pakistan And the Role of DUPAS in Reshaping the Industry

Woke Bingo Dr Farooq Sattar called a general workers' meeting at PIB where he announced to dissolve the Rabita Committee and called for holding fresh intra-party polls on February 17, to determine the new leader of the party.



Sattar called it a gathering of "responsible party members" and asked the audience to raise hands if they wanted to see the coordination committee dissolved, to which they responded with a positive gesture.



Citing a section of the party constitution, Sattar announced to sack all the conveners and deputy conveners of the party in a counter move, following the party's Rabita Committee move to remove him from the convener's position after the Election Commission of Pakistan allowed MQM-P deputy-convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui the authority to hand out party tickets for the upcoming Senate elections.



Addressing the gathering, Sattar asked who the workers wanted as the party's leader. The charged crowd responded with chants of "Farooq Bhai, Farooq Bhai".



Earlier in the day, party leader Kunwar Naveed Jamil explained that there were "many reasons why Dr Farooq Sattar was removed from his position".



"The registration of a party as organised as the MQM was cancelled by the ECP only due to the negligence of Dr Farooq Sattar. Despite continuous reminders from the coordination committee, Sattar did not file the party workers' wealth statements with the ECP, due to which the partys registration was cancelled," he added.



"Dr Sattar purposefully sabotaged the Khidmat-e-Khalq Foundation [the welfare arm of the MQM] by committing gross mismanagement in its affairs," he alleged. "Nazeer Hussain University is dysfunctional now and its employees haven't been paid for seven months now."



Dr Farooq Sattar also altered the party constitution to his own benefit and took all authorities and powers for himself," Jamil further alleged.



"We all love Farooq bhai deeply in a personal capacity. He was our party's convener. He no longer is. We deliberated in great detail regarding this issue  the reasons I'm detailing are a small fraction of all the ones we deliberated."



"The whole issue started when Dr Farooq Sattar tried to force Kamran Tessori as the partys candidate for Senate elections," he said.



Expressing the committee's reservations regarding the rapid ascent of Kamran Tessori in the party, Jamil alleged that Tessori was only made convener of MQM at the insistence of Dr Sattar, keeping merit aside.



He also alleged that Sattar had remained unwilling to accommodate the coordination committee's requests despite multiple overtures to seek a solution to the problem.



Jamil claimed that the committee had even abdicated its right to nominate senators completely for the sake of maintaining unity in the party, but Sattar remained unwilling to remove Tessori from the list of nominees.



"We have decided to promote the movement and not individuals," he continued.



"Dr Farooq Sattar does not hold any position of responsibility in the party anymore. He is now a common worker of the party," he concluded.



Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, speaking after Jamil, said Sattar's removal had been necessitated by the latter's call for a party workers' convention today that would have split the party completely.



He, however, did not foreclose the possibility of Sattar being reinstated as the convener of the party, saying the committee would be open to it if Sattar "realises his error".



"I was ousted through a structured conspiracy," Dr Farooq Sattar responded soon after being removed from the post of MQM convener.



"The issue was not about the nomination of one person  they [Bahadurabad group] actually wanted to nominate their favourites," Sattar claimed. "They are cloaking their selfish interests in their objection to [Tessor's] nomination for Senate seats"



"If I had made all the mistakes they claim I have made, why did they wait for the Senate election to act on them?" he asked.



"And if I had usurped all the powers in the party, how did they so successfully hold multiple meetings without my knowledge and conspire against me as well?"



"They haven't just sacked me: they have deprived every deserving worker of the party of his due right," he said.



"The party members had issues with me holding the authority of nominating party representatives," he explained. "I was forever the force obstructing the selling out of Karachi and the empowerment of the qabza mafia."



"If these people were sincere about finding a solution to the crisis, they wouldn't have signed a declaration for my ouster on February 7  at the same time they were sending delegations to negotiate with me."



"The verdict will be delivered by the people's court today," he announced, before inviting all party workers to the KMC ground in PIB Colony for a grand convention.



"This was just a trailer: the full film will play at the KMC ground," he said.



Earlier in the day, former ECP secretary Kanwar Dilshad had said that MQM-P leader Dr Farooq Sattar has been stripped of his ticket-awarding powers.



Soon after the ECP announced its decision, however, Dr Sattar and other party leaders arrived at the election body's office in Karachi. "I am the party convener, only I have the right to give a ticket," Dr Sattar told ECP officials, contesting the election body's ruling. "In my presence, the deputy-convener cannot even call a meeting."



Speaking outside the ECP, Dr Sattar said that all the meetings held without his knowledge can be questioned. A day earlier, Dr Sattar had announced issuing show-cause notices to some coordination committee members for holding unconstitutional party meetings.



Citing parts of the party's constitution, he said: "If Khalid [Maqbool Siddiqui] bhai wants to assist the convener [Sattar], then I will also submit a letter to support him. But if I feel this power is being misused, then I will revoke his right to hand out tickets."



Dr Sattar stressed that it was only with his backing that Siddiqui has been authorised to hand out party tickets, saying, "Otherwise, it would not be possible for him to do so."



The deputy-convener's role is limited, Sattar had said while talking to the media. "He can only assist, not take over the convener's duties."

Widening rift



On Friday, MQM-P's coordination committee had exercised its rights under the party's constitution and delegated the authority to deputy-convener Siddiqui to hand out party tickets for the upcoming elections.



Party leader Faisal Sabzwari, in a chat with newsmen on Friday, had said that under the party constitution, neither the convener nor any other person had the right to hand out party tickets. He had said this right is the sole privilege of the coordination committee, which is transferring it to deputy-convener Siddiqui.



The committee had also written to the ECP, urging it to accept the Senate election nominations of its candidates immediately.MANILA  The Philippines on Monday barred its citizens from traveling to Kuwait for employment, accusing the oil-rich gulf state of turning a blind eye to the abuse and even killing of domestic workers and other Filipinos.

The announcement came days after the Philippine president, Rodrigo Duterte, responded angrily to reports that the body of a Filipino domestic worker had been found in a freezer in an apartment in Kuwait.

As to the need for justice, we will hold Kuwait responsible under the concept of state responsibility, Mr. Dutertes spokesman, Harry Roque, said on Monday. He called on Kuwait to provide legal redress to Filipino victims of what he called horrendous crimes.

Calls to the Kuwaiti Embassy in Manila went unanswered on Monday.

About half a million Filipinos live in Kuwait, most of them employed as domestic workers, according to the Philippine government. The Philippine economy is heavily dependent on remittances, with 10 percent of the countrys population working overseas and sending money home.SYDNEY, Australia  President Trump has said he plans to nominate Adm. Harry B. Harris Jr., the commander of the United States Pacific Command and a vocal critic of Chinas military expansion in the region, as ambassador to Australia.

Admiral Harris, 61, who has spent 39 years in the Navy, is expected to easily win confirmation in the Senate.

The United States has been without an ambassador to Australia, a major ally, since 2016. The alliance between the countries was strained in the early days of the Trump administration by an argument between President Trump and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull over the resettlement of refugees.

As China flexes its might and North Korea speeds its nuclear program, a strong alliance between the United States and Australia is seen by many as crucial to maintaining the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region.OTTAWA  After widespread protests over the acquittal on murder charges of a Saskatchewan farmer who shot and killed a 22-year-old Cree man, members of the victims family began a series of meetings on Monday with government officials, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Indigenous leaders and supporters across the country had expressed anger and disbelief on Friday night over the verdict in the case involving the death of Colten Boushie, who was killed in 2016.

Many of them, including Mr. Boushies family, said the case revealed significant flaws in how Canadas legal system dealt with cases involving Indigenous people.

The trial of Gerald Stanley, the farmer, was also marred by ugly, often racist online messages by his supporters. Mr. Stanley testified that he had unintentionally shot Mr. Boushie in the back of the head when his semiautomatic pistol experienced a rare mechanical malfunction. Experts were unable to replicate the failure.In 2011, Oxfam stated that it had found misconduct by some of its workers in Haiti, where the group was taking part in recovery efforts after a devastating earthquake, and that those people had left the organization. But Oxfam did not specify who was involved or what they had done wrong, and, as it now concedes, it did not inform the police in Haiti.

Last week, The Times of London reported that the misconduct included hiring prostitutes, pressuring Oxfams drivers to procure prostitutes and holding sex parties at the groups houses. The organization fired four people and allowed three others, including Mr. van Hauwermeiren, to resign while under investigation.

Oxfam acknowledged on Friday that there had been sexual misconduct, and that Mr. van Hauwermeiren was among those who left over the matter, but it has not named the others.

It said its investigation in Haiti, where prostitution is illegal and the legal age of consent is 18, was not able to prove or disprove allegations that some of the Haitians hired were under 18. There have been no claims that Oxfam workers demanded sex in return for aid, an allegation that has at times been made against other groups.

Haitis ambassador to Britain, Bocchit Edmond, told the BBC that his government would demand that Oxfam name the officials involved in the episode and turn over its investigative files, so all legal actions will be taken against those who committed those crimes.

The group has apologized repeatedly, and it said that the behavior of some of its staff members in Haiti had led years ago to tougher policies and safeguards, but it has also insisted that it did not engage in a cover-up.

Oxfam has said that in 2011, it shared its findings with the Charity Commission, a British government agency, which took no action. But the commissions chief investigator said that it was not told the full extent of the misconduct, and that it would have acted differently if it had been.MOSCOW  Russia has threatened to block YouTube and Instagram if they do not take down videos and photos relating to Oleg V. Deripaska, an oligarch who was once close to President Trumps former campaign manager, Paul Manafort.

A billionaire aluminum and mining magnate, Mr. Deripaska was the subject of an investigation published last Thursday on YouTube by the anticorruption activist and opposition leader Aleksei A. Navalny.

Mr. Navalnys team scoured social media accounts belonging to a 21-year-old Belarus-born blogger, Anastasia Vashukevich, who posted videos in 2016 that showed Mr. Deripaska sailing on his yacht around Norway with a deputy prime minister, Sergei E. Prikhodko. At one point, Mr. Deripaska appears to be explaining to the blogger why relations between Russia and the United States are so bad. (Mr. Deripaska was an investor in a private equity firm controlled by Mr. Manafort, but the two men had a falling out.)

Ms. Vashukevich had written a tell-all book about her career as a model and escort, and claimed that a modeling agency hired her to spend time on Mr. Deripaskas yacht. But her claims did not get widespread attention until Mr. Navalnys inquiry was published.MOSCOW  After repeated failed attempts to lock up or at least muzzle Mikheil Saakashvili, the former president of Georgia, Ukrainian security officers on Monday grabbed the now stateless ex-leader in a restaurant and bundled him onto an aircraft bound for Poland.

A spokeswoman for Mr. Saakashvili said he had been detained during lunch at a Georgian restaurant in Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, by armed men in camouflage uniforms from Alfa, a unit of Ukraines internal security agency, and the border guard service. He was then sent, against his will, to Warsaw, she said.

Video footage of the scene in the restaurant showed members of Mr. Saakashvilis lunch party scuffling with security agents, and unidentified men rolling about the floor.

Mr. Saakashvili, a former ally turned critic of Ukraines president, Petro O. Poroshenko, entered Ukraine from Poland in September, accompanied by a throng of supporters who surged past border guards.ROME  When the Egyptian Museum in the northern Italian city of Turin began offering two-for-one admissions for Arabic speakers last month, the offer seemed innocuous enough.

After all, the artifacts in the museum, one of the largest collections outside Cairo, originated in Egypt, which is now the worlds largest Arab country.

But in Italys heated campaign before national elections on March 4, nothing, it seems, is ever so straightforward. That is especially so if the issue touches even tangentially on immigration.

The Brothers of Italy, a small but vocal far-right party that is a member of the coalition headed by Silvio Berlusconi, took offense at the offer for discriminating against Italians and staged a protest on Friday.To be fair, the United States started it.

On Jan. 10, the City Council in Washington changed the name of the block of Wisconsin Avenue where the Russian Embassy sits to 1 Boris Nemtsov Plaza. Mr. Nemtsov, a charismatic opposition politician and fierce Kremlin critic, was fatally shot near the Kremlin walls in February 2015.

Although five Chechen men were jailed for the crime, Mr. Nemtsovs family and friends, some of whom lobbied for the street name, believe that the real mastermind has never been publicly identified. The change received a sympathetic response in Washington, especially after the Russian meddling in the 2016 American presidential election.

Any change in Moscow still faces hurdles. Even if the commission recommends the name change, it will need the approval of city hall. The Kremlin is likely to have a say, and given its desire to improve relations with the United States, it might well scrap the idea.

The chance that the city might consider a change, however, unleashed a tsunami of alternative suggestions and commentary on social media sites.

They included a slew of streets and alleys named after foreign leaders who have clashed with the United States: the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un; Fidel Castro of Cuba; and Arab leaders whom the Russians consider to have been murdered under the auspices of the United States, like Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi of Libya and Saddam Hussein of Iraq.The United States was committed to free and fair elections, not just for Egypt but for any country, Mr. Tillerson said, but he declined to comment on a fierce wave of repression that has jailed, sidelined or threatened Mr. Sisis rivals in the past month.

Standing beside Mr. Tillerson, Egypts foreign minister, Sameh Shoukry, said Egypts critics were out of touch, and insisted his country had a vibrant news media with a multitude of television stations  even though on Sunday his government banned transmissions of the Arab version of the American comedy show Saturday Night Live, the latest step in a broad crackdown in which journalists have been arrested and about 500 websites blocked.

Later, Mr. Tillerson held private talks with Mr. Sisi at the presidential palace. A State Department spokeswoman said they focused on their shared fight against terrorism and enhancing economic and commercial ties between the United States and Egypt.

The conciliatory tone was in keeping with the broad theme of Mr. Tillersons trip to the Middle East, which is focused on stabilizing the region after the expected defeat of the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. Mr. Sisi launched a sweeping military operation against the Islamic State last Friday, spurred by a devastating attack on a mosque last November that killed 311 people and, most likely, by the approach of next months election.

On Sunday, a video purportedly from the Islamic State called on its fighters to carry out attacks during the election and warned Egyptians to stay away from the polls.May 24th - August 15th

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Study with world class NYU faculty, connect with industry leaders, and earn college credits. Choose from more than a thousand courses and engage with NYU students from around the world.



NYU also offers summer programs for high school students. Explore NYU Online High School Programs to learn more."24.1% SC/STs in Karnataka; 70% job reservation will be proportional," says Siddaramaiah

India

oi-Anusha

Making data from Socio-Economic caste census public for the first time, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that Scheduled Castes and scheduled tribes made up 24.1 per cent of Karnataka's total population. Speaking at the Jana Aashirvada rally in Raichur alongside AICC President Rahul Gandhi, Siddaramaiah said that his government was keen on increasing job reservation to backward classes to 70 per cent from the existing 50 per cent.

Siddaramaiah was addressing a tribal rally organised as part of Rahul Gandhi's four-day tour in Hyderabad-Karnataka region. While the caste census data is yet to be made public, Siddamaiah revealed select numbers for the first time in an attempt to justify his government' move to increase reservation.

"The total SC population is 17.5 per cent while ST population is 6.95 per cent totalling 24.1 per cent. You are now only getting 18 per cent reservation," Siddaramaiah said. He added that his government attempting to increase reservation in jobs for STs by 7 per cent. While a host of Congress leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge addressed the rally, Siddaramaiah's address targetting the specific audience- largely from tribal communities. Ahead of Karnataka Assembly Elections 2018, the Congress is attempting to consolidate its traditional vote banks of AHINDA (Acronym for Backward classes, minorities and Dalits).

An increase of 7 per cent in jobs for ST communities from the current 3 per cent will take the overall reservation percentage to 70 in Karnataka. While the BJP maintains that it is reservation beyond 50 per cent is unconstitutional, Siddaramiaah argued that the increase will be brought about in proportion to the population of said communities.

In a change of order, Raichur leg of Jana Ashirvada yatra saw Rahul Gandhi address the gathering first followed by Mallikarjun Kharge with Siddaramaiah concluding the same. Unlike BJP rallies where Prime Minister Narendra Modi inevitably becomes the showstopper, Raichur rally saw Siddaramaiah signing off for the Congress on a high instead of Rahul Gandhi.

Karnataka Assembly Election dates Date of notification April 17 Last date to file nominations April 24 Last date to withdraw nominations April 27 Date of polling May 12 Date of counting May 15

OneIndia NewsAyodhya case lawyer K Parasaran's home, to be used as office for Ram Temple trust

Babri case: Advani, Joshi, Uma Bharti will have to be present in court

Mosque in Ayodhya will be of same size as Babri Masjid: Trust

Babri will remain a Mosque till eternity: AIMPLB

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Rekindling the debate yet again, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board has said that Babri Masjid will always remain a Mosque and Muslims can never exchange the land for the Masjid.

In a statement issued on the concluding day of its 26th plenary, the board said Babri masjid is an essential part of faith in Islam and Muslims can never "abdicate" the Masjid.

"Babri Masjid is an essential part of faith in Islam and Muslims can never abdicate the Masjid nor can they exchange land for Masjid or gift the Masjid land. Babri Masjid is a Masjid and it shall remain a Masjid till eternity. By demolishing Babri Masjid, it never loses its identity as a masjid. And according to Shariah, it always remains a Masjid," the statement said.

AIMPLB chief Maulana Rabey Hasani Nadvi presided over the three-day meet which was attended by 400 members and special invitees from different spheres of life including ulemas (clergy), intellectuals, social and political personalities.

The meet discussed and decided to protect the Islamic Shariah.

The board stressed the struggle for the reconstruction of the Babri Masjid would continue.

"Without any doubt, we make it clear that the struggle for the reconstruction of Babri Masjid continues and the appeal in the Supreme Court is being fought rigorously with all the resources available at the disposal of the board," the statement said.

The AIMPLB further said the country's topmost lawyers are appearing in the apex court in the case on behalf of Muslims.

On the triple talaq issue, the board said a bill moved by the Centre to criminalise the practice is "anti-women" and is against the Shariah and the Constitution.

"The Talaq-e-Biddat bill moved by the central government is anti-women. It will create more difficulties for women. It is against Shariah and it is against the Constitution. The efforts made by the Board will continue to stop this bill in the Rajya Sabha," the statement said.

The AIMPLB will start a country-wide awareness campaign against the bill and will also coordinate with Opposition parties that are against the bill, it said.

The AIMPLB also decided that state-wide committees and district-level committees will be formed under the aegis of the central body for the purpose.

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017, which criminalises instant talaq and provides for up to three years of imprisonment for Muslim men if they indulge in it, has already been passed in the Lok Sabha, but it is yet to get a nod in the Rajya Sabha, where the BJP-led NDA lacks majority.

In the politically sensitive Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid case, the Supreme Court is currently hearing final arguments.

In its ruling on September 30, 2010, the Allahabad High Court ordered a three-way division of the disputed 2.77 acres of the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi site, giving a third each to the Nirmohi Akhara, the Sunni Central Wakf Board of Uttar Pradesh, and Ramlalla Virajman, the idol of the child Ram placed there.

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 6:09 [IST]Delhi police release sketches of accused who gunned down Congress worker

India

oi-Madhuri

The Delhi Police released sketches of the accused of the incident where a Congress worker was gunned down in his car by occupants of another car following an argument with them allegedly over their rash driving on Bhalswa Flyover on 6th February.

43-year old Vinod Mehra, the resident of east Delhi's Geeta Colony had lost his life early morning after a brawl turned fatal on Delhi's Bhalswa Flyover on Tuesday.

The victim has been identified as Vinod Mehra. The incident took place when the 43-year-old was returning home after attending a marriage function at one of the banquets on GTK Road.

The victim was driving his Wagon R when suddenly a van overtook him. Soon, Mehra and the occupants of the van started arguing and Mehra objected to the rash driving. Both vehicles stopped on Bhalaswa Flyover and the argument began. One of the occupants of the other vehicle came out and fired one shot at Mehra. The bullet pierced the left side of Mehra's chest, just below the heart.

Mehra was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital where he was declared as 'brought dead'.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 15:13 [IST]Did AIADMK flout rules by unveiling Jayalalithaas portrait inside TN Assembly?

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

Chennai, Feb 12: More than a year after her death, the ruling All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) once again honoured late Jayalalithaa by unveiling her portrait inside the Tamil Nadu Assembly on Monday.

The former chief minister died after undergoing long treatment at a Chennai hospital on December 5, 2016. Jayalalithaa's portrait was unveiled at TN Assembly by speaker Dhanapal.

Her portrait is the 11th one after Mahatma Gandhi, Periyar EV Ramasamy, CN Annadurai, K Kamraj, Thiruvalluvar, BR Ambedkar, Muthuramalinga Thevar, C Rajagopalachari, Quaide Millath and MG Ramachandran to have found a prominent place inside the massive Assembly building.

While it was a momentous occasion for her fans and supporters, opposition parties, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Congress, protested against putting up Jayalalithaa's portrait along with other political, social and literary stalwarts of the country inside the state Assembly building.

Both the DMK and the Congress boycotted the Monday event of unveiling of Amma's (as Jayalalithaa was popularly known among her fans) portrait inside the TN Assembly.

The portrait of the former CM in the Assembly is a "disgrace" as she was convicted of corruption, stated the DMK. CM E Palaniswami, his deputy O Panneerselvam, other AIADMK leaders, police and officials were present during the event in the Assembly. In fact, Palaniswami wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year to invite him to grace the Monday's occasion. According to reports, the Prime Minister's Office never replied to the CM's letter.

Although Jayalalithaa, who was a former film star, was considered to be one of the most influential and powerful politicians from Tamil Nadu, her various tenures as the CM of the state were tainted by corruption charges.

In February 2017, just two months after her death, the Supreme Court indicted Jayalalithaa and others in the disproportionate assets case.

"Jayalalithaa's portrait will add to the assembly's prestige," said a leader of the AIADMK.

On Sunday, DMK working president MK Stalin said it (unveiling of Jayalalithaa's portrait inside the TN Assembly) would set a bad precedent as she was convicted in the case. Stalin told journalists that unveiling a portrait of a person who had been convicted by the Supreme Court was against the law.

"It is a black move and I condemn it on behalf of the DMK. Already, a petition filed by our party MLA J Anbazhagan against keeping the portrait of Jayalalithaa [in the Assembly] is pending before the Madras High Court. Since the case will be taken up for hearing, the government has organised the event in a hurried manner before 9.30 am," he alleged.

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 12:26 [IST]What is pogonotrophy, Tharoors new word and why is he using it for PM Modi

Hopeful IT panel will take up Pegasus; officials may have been instructed to skip last meet: Tharoor

Don't compare bamboo sticks and khaki shorts to Army: Shashi Tharoor

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor expressed shock over Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's comment on the preparedness of the Indian Army.

Shashi Tharoor, said, "Quite shocked to hear him (Mohan Bhagwat) comparing Army unfavourably with the RSS. Really unworthy, Let us keep Army beyond politics. Let us not compare a bunch of young people with bamboo sticks and khaki shorts to Army."

Bhagwat was reported to have said that while the Army would take "six months" to raise a force to fight a war, the RSS could do the same in a matter of "three days".

Meanwhile, the RSS's clarified following reports of Bhagwat saying the RSS has the ability to prepare an "army" to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises.

What Bhagwat actually said was that "if a situation so arises, and if the Constitution allows it, the Indian Army would take six months to prepare the general population for war while the Army could prepare [the RSS's] swayamsevaks in three days because the swayamsevaks are highly disciplined," the organisation added.

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 18:37 [IST]From free smartphones to jobs in every household, BJP woos voters ahead of Tripura polls

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

Agartala, Feb 12: The upcoming Tripura Assembly elections are grabbing national headlines. Thanks to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which seems determined to end the decades-long regime of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-(M))-led Left Front government in the northeastern state.

As a part of its election strategy, the BJP is leaving no stone unturned to challenge the might of the Manik Sarkar government in the state which is in power since 1998.

From Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP president Amit Shah to finance minister Arun Jaitley, top leaders of the saffron party are busy campaigning in the state ahead of the all-important polls.

Recently, the PM was in Tripura where he launched a scathing attack against the Sarkar government. Modi will once again visit the poll-bound state on February 15 to campaign for the BJP.

On Sunday, when Jaitley released the BJP's manifesto--Vision Document Tripura 2018---it was clear that the saffron party was all out to woo the voters. Right from giving free smartphones to youths to one job at least in every household, the manifesto of the BJP is full of populist moves.

The other promises listed in the BJP manifesto include setting up of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in the state for sectors like food processing, bamboo, IT and textiles, free education for women till graduation and 7th pay commission salary to state government employees, among others.

Jaitley said PM Modi wants the country to develop, which is why the BJP in Tripura has focused more on development issues in its vision document. He said a degree college would be set up in each constituency of the state to upgrade the education system.

The senior BJP leader also announced that an adequate number of multi-speciality hospitals and an AIIMS-like hospital would be set up in the state. Tripura would be made a logistic hub for transportation in the entire northeastern region due to its proximity with Bangladesh and the ports in that country, Jaitley said.

The vision document states that stories of Tripura's erstwhile royal rulers would be included in the school curriculum and Agartala airport would be renamed after Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya, the last king of Tripura.

It promised an investigation into the Rose Valley scam and those found guilty would be jailed. The minimum grant under social welfare schemes would be Rs 2,000 per month and the minimum wage would be Rs 340, the vision document said, adding CBI inquiry into the killing of two journalists Shantanu Bhowmick and Sudip Datta Bhowmick would be instituted.

The election to the 60-member Tripura Assembly would be held on February 18. The BJP is contesting in 51 seats while its alliance partner Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) has fielded candidates in nine seats.

Along with Tripura, Meghalaya and Nagaland are also going to polls. The Assembly elections in both Meghalaya and Nagaland are scheduled on February 27. The election results of all the three northeastern states will be announced on March 3.

Tripura Assembly Party 2013 Current Standing CPIM 49 50 Election Date : Feb 18 2018

Counting : Mar 03 2018 CONG 10 02 CPI 01 01 BJP 00 06 OTHERS 00 00 Total 60 59 (1 Vacant)

OneIndia NewsHoney trap: A tale of 2 women and 2 conversations

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

When the ISI decided to honey trap Arun Marwaha, an officer with the Indian Air Force, they decided to unleash two of their best spies. The duo signed up on Facebook as Mahima and Kiran.

Prior to this they were observing the social media behaviour of the officer and learnt that he was very active. He would regularly post pictures and was very active.

Both Kiran and Mahima introduced themselves as models. The chat at first was casual. While Kiran indulged only in lewd chats, Mahima would discuss general issues.

It took them at least four months to gain his trust, investigations being conducted by the Special Cell of the Delhi police show. The probe also showed that the duo were part of the ISI's rung which created fake accounts and sent out requests only to officers in India.

The probe suggests that this could have been the latest Bangladesh module of the ISI which was set up following the Kashmir unrest. It is a huge module, officers say while adding that over 200 requests were sent out in the past year.

After the two got comfortable with the officer, they asked him for his naked pictures. Once he sent them out, they knew that the trap had been set. They then blackmailed him and asked him to send out information failing which they would post these pictures online.

He then moved out of Facebook and began interacting with them on WhatsApp. He is alleged to have sent out vital information relating to the Air Force including the Gagan Shakti operations.

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 7:47 [IST]From Greg Swank, 12-4-2 You are about to read a list of 45 goals that found their way down the halls of our great Capitol back in 1963. As...Swachh Survekshan 2021: Indore, India's cleanest city is now the country's first 'water plus' city

Madhya Pradesh: Minor girl set on fire for resisting rape; accused on the run

India

oi-Madhuri

By Madhuri

In a horrific incident, a 13-year-old girl was burnt alive for trying to resist rape in Madhya Pradesh's Sustani village on Saturday.

It is learnt that the accused was trying to rape the minor on finding her that she was all alone at home. The victim got furious after the victim repeatedly protested against it. However in order to silence her, the accused burnt her alive by pouring kerosene. The culprit then fled from the spot.

The victim was admitted in the district hospital on Saturday night, where the doctors said that 50 percent of her body sustained burn injuries. After a primary treatment, she was referred to Bhopal.

According to police, a case has been registered and teams are looking for the accused.

A three-member team has been formed to nab the culprit, SDOP Shambhu Singh Ahirwal informed.

OneIndia NewsJ&K: Lashkar claims responsibility of Sunjwan Army Camp, Karan Nagar terror attacks

India

oi-Madhuri

The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) on Monday claimed responsibility for Sunjwan Army Camp which killed 5 people and Karan Nagar terror attacks in which one CRPF was killed in Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier in the day, a CRPF personnel who was seriously injured in gunfight during ongoing encounter at CRPF camp in Srinagar's Karan Nagar succumbed to injuries. A fierce encounter broke out between terrorists and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday morning following a thwarted bid to attack a camp here.

The guard, posted at the headquarters of the CRPF's 23 battalion headquarters, saw two suspected terrorists approaching the camp at around 4.30 am and opened fire. The two, who were armed with AK-47 rifles, fled from the spot.

The militants fled from the spot, the spokesman said, adding searches were launched soon after to track down the ultras.

I congratulate alert CRPF sentry for averting Suicidal attack in Karan nagar Srinagar. Fortunately 2 terrorists are in cordon & exchange of fire going on.  Shesh Paul Vaid (@spvaid) February 12, 2018

Incidentally, the CRPF 23 battalion headquarters is located just a few paces away from Srinagar's Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital where last week a Pakistani terrorist - Naveed Jat alias Abu Hunzullah - successfully escaped from police custody.

Earlier on Saturday, terrorists barged in the Sunjwan army camp in Jammu, killing five security personnel and one civilian. Six army personnel and six civilians are injured.

Four terrorists have been gunned down.

OneIndia NewsKerala: 20 girls walk out of orphanage in Ernakulam claiming harassment by sisters

India

oi-Madhuri

By Madhuri

About 20 girls in the age group of 7 to 15 complained of harassment by sisters and walked out of an orphanage at Ernakulam, Kerala on Friday night.

The girls told the Police that they were beaten up by the sisters and there were days when they were not given food.

According to CNN-News18, the girls belonged to the Christ King Orphanage.

A complaint has been filed at the local police station under Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act. Section 75 deals with punishment for cruelty to a child and states that those who abuse or assault a child will be punished upto three years in prison or/and fined upto Rs one lakh.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 9:41 [IST]Loya case: Petitions filed with oblique motive to scandalise judiciary, SC told

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The petitions filed on the death of judge Loya are with an oblique motive to scandalise the judiciary, the Maharashtra government on Monday told the Supreme Court. This is an attempt to take undue advantage of the unfortunate death of a judge, Maharashtra also contended.

Further it was also stated that all in the SC are arguing as if it were a murder trial. Further it also said that if the SC wants to reject the statements of the judges who said that judge Loya's death was natural, then it has to be prima facie accepted that they were conspirators in the case.

Arguing for Maharashtra, senior advocate, Mukul Rohatgi said that everything is being based on an unconfirmed article. None of them even lifted a finger to verify the allegations made in the article which was written 3 years after the death of Loya. Moreover unconfirmed articles in the media do not form legally admissible evidence, he also stated.

Meanwhile Dushyant Dave arguing for the petitioners sought for a copy of the communication sent by the Commissioner Intelligence to the judges for their statements on the judge's death. Rohatgi told Dave that he has not seen those copies. He also said he would provide them. Further hearing on the matter has been posted for Friday.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 16:48 [IST]Opposition cant win polls, so they are abusing me: PM Modi

'Non-Gandhi' can be Cong chief, but Gandhi family must remain active in party: Mani Shankar Aiyar

Mani Shankar Aiyar stirs up controversy, says he loves Pakistan

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has sparked controversy yet again by saying that he loved Pakistan as much as India.

Aiyar's statement comes just days after Pakistan-sponsored terrorists attacked the Sunjuwan army base in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at a conference in Karachi, Aiyar said that "there is only one way to resolve the India- Pakistan issue and that is by way of uninterrupted and un-interruptible dialogue.

While Islamabad has accepted the policy of and need for continuous dialogue to resolve issues of bilateral importance, New Delhi has not, he said reports News agency ANI.

He added, "I love Pakistan because I love India. India should love thy neighbour as thyself."

He further said that India and Pakistan should adopt a framework that was formulated by the regime led by former president general (retired) Pervez Musharraf.

Earlier, Aiyar courted controversy days before the Gujarat elections for his 'neech aadmi' comment at PM Modi .

Aiyar called Modi a "neech aadmi" (vile man) who does "dirty politics" after the prime minister targeted the Congress saying that parties seeking votes in B R Ambedkar's name tried to erase his contribution to nation building the party.

OneIndia News (with agency inputs)Mumbai University 50 per cent attendance rule cant be relaxed even by highest authority: HC

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The Mumbai University's ordinance mandating a minimum 50 per cent attendance was in the interest of students and thus, even the highest authority in the university had no power to allow any undue relaxation in the rule, the Bombay High Court has held.

The court also held that the discretionary powers over students' attendance was vested only with the colleges' respective attendance committees and their principals and that the university can't claim to be the "supreme appellate authority" in such cases.

The bench was hearing a petition filed against the Mumbai University's grievance cell by a college in Kandivli.

The petitioner, B K Shroff College, had alleged that the university's cell did not take strict action against the attendance defaulters and that it often allowed such students, who did not have the minimum requisite attendance, to appear for exams.

The petitioner alleged that in March 2017, about 100 commerce students were barred from appearing for their second semester exams since they had less than 50 per cent attendance.

Thirty-eight of these students had approached the university's grievance cell (commerce) and it asked the college to allow the defaulters to take the exams despite the fact that they had less than 50 per cent attendance.

The university's ordinance on students' attendance mandates that each student maintains 75 per cent attendance.

However, the college principals have the power to condone deficiency in attendance up to 25 per cent, if the deficiency is on account of bonafide exigencies, and was approved by the college attendance committee.

The university's counsel, advocate Rui Rodrigues, however, told the high court that the university's grievance cell intervened and granted relief to the students only if it was convinced that the relief was a well-deserved one.

"The ordinance is made by the university itself so the university is the ultimate appellate authority and can have the power to use its discretion on a case-to-case basis," Rui Rodrigues said.

He also cited a previous judgement of another bench of the high court that had granted relief in a similar case after holding that the university was the supreme appellate authority when it came to academic disputes.

The bench, however, rejected the above argument.

"A strict view on attendance must be maintained in the larger interest of not only the student, but also of the institution or university. The ordinance is meant to protect the interest of the state and it can't be implemented haphazardly. Even the highest authority in the university has no power to allow any undue relaxation in the rule.

"We can't accept the argument that the university is the supreme appellate body. Any relaxation in case of bonafide exigencies can be granted only by the college committee and the principal and even then a student must have minimum attendance of 50 per cent," the bench said.

"A student can't do well unless he or she attends classes and follows the rules of his or her institute. The university must remember that it is the protector or custodian of the academic interest of the students," the bench said.

On a previous hearing, the High Court had directed the college to declare its results and permit the students to continue in the third semester after they gave an undertaking stating they would maintain 75 per cent attendance in future.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 7:18 [IST]Nagaland Assembly elections: Baptist churches body launches campaign against BJP

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

Kohima, Feb 12: In the Christian-dominated state, Nagaland, where the Assembly elections are scheduled on February 27, the all-powerful Nagaland Baptist Churches Council (NBCC) has launched a scathing campaign against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In an open letter, the NBCC has appealed to all other political parties not to support the saffron party and its "brand of Hindutva politics" as India had experienced the worst persecution of minority communities in 2015-2017 under the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-backed BJP government at the Centre.

"We cannot deny that the Hindutva movement in the country has become strong and invasive in an unprecedented manner over the last few years with the BJP, the political wing of the RSS, in power," NBCC general secretary Rev Zelhou Keyho said in a letter of appeal addressed to all political parties.

"Our people are fond of propaganda and because of this we often miss the reality unnoticed. But India has experienced worst persecution ever in 2015-2017. You will be fully aware that persecutions have been tripled in recent years. Pastors, evangelists and missionaries are dragged openly in the streets, harassed and insulted and many made to suffer.

"Their homes destroyed and children discriminated in schools. Worship places were burnt down and believers are often disturbed and harassed. The Bible is openly burnt and confiscated," the letter added.

For the upcoming Nagaland elections, the BJP has formed an alliance with the Nationalist Democratic People's Party (NDPP), a local party. The BJP has ended its 15-year-old alliance with the Naga People's Front (NPF) in Nagaland to join hands with the NDPP.

Asked about the BJP-NDPP alliance, Rev Keyho told The Indian Express, "At this moment, I will not be able to comment on the NDPP but getting a regional party has emboldened the BJP." He added that "while politicians will say the BJP is only a political party and we are not part of the RSS, it is just political talk."

Regarding the NBCC's open stand against the BJP, Keyho stated that, "This time it has really become a threat (the RSS-backed BJP). That is why we felt we had to make a strong statement not only on behalf of the church here but also on behalf of Christians in the country in general."

This is not the first time that the churches body is playing a political role in the northeastern state. Often heads of churches have a major say in the political decisions in the state where majority of the people are Baptists.

The BJP is facing several challenges in Meghalaya--where the Assembly elections are also due on February 27--and Nagaland, both Christian-dominated states. In both the poll-bound states, the BJP is seen as a party which is anti-minority (and thus anti-Christians).

The saffron party's alleged support for pan-India "beef ban" and silence over attacks on minorities (especially against Christians in states like Madhya Pradesh) have put the ruling BJP on the backfoot in these two states.

However, what is interesting is that the BJP is also witnessing its political rise in both these states ahead of the elections. The elections results of both the states along with Tripura will be declared on March 3. Tripura is voting for Assembly elections on February 18.

Nagaland Assembly Party 2013 Current Standing NPF 38 45 Election Date : Feb 27 2018

Counting : Mar 03 2018 IND 08 08 CONG 08 00 NCP 04 01 BJP 01 04 JDU 01 01 OTHERS 00 00 Total 60 59 (1 Vacant)

OneIndia NewsExplained: What is Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, how is it useful?

Will fuel prices come down? Here's is what Nirmala Sitharaman has to say

Pakistan will pay for this misadventure: Sitharaman on Sunjuwan attack

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said Pakistan will have to pay a price for the terror attack on Sunjuwan attack that killed five soldiers.

Addressing a press conference soon after meeting Jammu and Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti, Sitharaman said that "Jaish-E-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar was the mastermind of the attack but added that there was also local support to the attack."

"Terrorists belonged to Jaish-e-Mohammed, sponsored by Azhar Masood residing in Pakistan and deriving support from there in," she said.

"Intelligence inputs show that terrorists were controlled by their handlers from across border. Evidence are being scrutinised by NIA. Pakistan is expanding the arch of terror to areas south of Pir Panjal and resorting to ceasefire violations to assist infiltration."

"I wouldn't certainly state a timeline (for action against Pakistan). But will say this, Pakistan will pay for this misadventure. I repeat, Pakistan will pay for it," Sitharaman said.

"All the evidences collected have been compiled. Definitely they will be given to Pakistan. Even after giving dossiers after dossiers Pakistan has not taken any action." She added, "Giving the evidences to Pakistan will be a continuous process," she said.

To a question about the filing of an FIR against an Army officer involved in the Shopian firing, Sitharaman said the government must stand by the Army.

"Supreme Court has given a 15 day stay on the FIR itself. We'll have to see how it goes. We have to stand by our proud soldiers and Army and in the call of duty if they have performed something it has to be contextualized," she said.

Earlier in the day, Sitharaman visited soldiers and civilians, who were injured in the terror attack at Sunjuwan military camp, at the Army hospital in Jammu.

Four terrorists were killed by the Army during the operation that has now been on for over 50 hours. Five soldiers and a civilian were killed by terrorists, who entered the army camp around 4.45 AM on Saturday.

Sitharaman also held a high-level security review meeting. It was attended by the three service chiefs, defence secretary, and other top officials.

On Saturday, one of the deadliest terror attacks took place in Sunjuwan army camp in Jammu and Kashmir, in which five army personnel and a civilian died. Ten people including six women and children, were injured.

OneIndia NewsRahul Gandhi calls RSS chief's Army speech as an 'insult' to every Indian

India

oi-Madhuri

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday tweeted on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat's speech that said the organisation has the ability to prepare an "army" to fight for the country within three days. Gandhi called RSS chief's speech is as an insult to every Indian.

The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation.



It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it.



Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army. #ApologiseRSS pic.twitter.com/Gh7t4Ghgon  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 12, 2018

Taking to Twitter, Gandhi said,''The RSS Chief's speech is an insult to every Indian, because it disrespects those who have died for our nation. It is an insult to our flag because it insults every soldier who ever saluted it. Shame on you Mr Bhagwat, for disrespecting our martyrs and our Army.''

Bhagwat was reported to have said that while the Army would take "six months" to raise a force to fight a war, the RSS could do the same in a matter of "three days".

Meanwhile, the RSS's clarified following reports of Bhagwat saying the RSS has the ability to prepare an "army" to fight for the country within three days, if such a situation arises.

What Bhagwat actually said was that "if a situation so arises, and if the Constitution allows it, the Indian Army would take six months to prepare the general population for war while the Army could prepare [the RSS's] swayamsevaks in three days because the swayamsevaks are highly disciplined," the organisation added.

OneIndia NewsColombia Hoy



Para nunca olvidar



Paginas vistas en total

'Parasite' painted on a statue of Queen, Elizabeth in Kent, England



Sin palabras



La UE le apunta a la paz



Cada vez mas solo



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LULA y su Pueblo



Bye Bye



Homenaje al genial Quino



Fueron ellos



Una imagen que resume



Tan bajo ha caido que se deja tocar el trasero?



Porky y el Nene (archiconocido narcotraficante)



Ladrones al poder



Asi mira el perrito a su amo



Crazy



Clamor popular



La nueva inquisicion



Bolivia



Chile Hoy



Eso es todo amigos!



Piensalo!



Pinerachet



No More Trump



Adios Macri, hasta nunca



La Marioneta se desinfla



Asi o mas cinico



Almugre



Mexico en 1794



Mas arrastrado imposible



Hasta cuando!



La pura verdad



Solidaridad con Palestina



Serie Capitalismo



Espejismos de la clase trabajadora



Asi es!



Comerciantes o delincuentes



No pasaran!



Asi es la vida



USA HOY



01/01/1959



La avaricia no tiene limites



AYUDA HUMANITARIA?



Chile Hoy



Asi son las cosas



Mapa Electoral de Venezuela



Patagonia argentina?



Un aniversario mas del mayor genocidio de la Humanidad



Retrato del franquismo en Espana



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El Chulo de Madrid



Cuando la policia se roba la democracia



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Asi gobierna la maldita burguesia



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Como Chavez nadie



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Hace 15 anos Por que la OEA no se pronuncio?



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La Union Europea Premio Nobel de la Paz?



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Obama, el mentiroso



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La Marioneta



Los ricos protestan, los pobres celebran



MARICORI Y OBAMA



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USA TODAY



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Cronologia de un agresor



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Dios los cria y ellos se juntan



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Obama



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Los ricos



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Chavez Cuanto te queremos!



Por culpa de Chavez



Cerveza Polar







Algun dia Colombia volvera a la ideologia de Bolivar







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LOS REVOLUCIONARIOS NO TOMAN CACA-COLA No se trata solamente de un capricho, sino de una sana actitud en todos los sentidos. Desde la solidaridad con el pueblo colombiano donde la empresa Caca-Cola ha cometido los mas grandes abusos contra sus trabajadores incluyendo el presunto secuestro y asesinato de los dirigentes del sindicato, hasta la proteccion de la salud de nuestros hijos, enviciados por ese jarabe de cola y azucar, que les produce obesidad prematura. Pensemos tambien los revolucionarios, que ese dinero que gastamos en los refrescos es utilizado por esas empresas para financiar el terrorismo en nuestro pais. Es cierto, no se trata solo de la Caca-Cola, sino tambien de la cerveza, de los cigarrillos y todos esos articulos innecesarios y mas que eso, daninos para nuestra salud. Podriamos incluso pensar en un dia de parada para cada uno de ellos. Es cuestion de irnos organizando. Pero para empezar, que tal si dejamos de comprar Caca-Cola y sus similares?



























Cuando lo extraordinario se vuelve cotidiano...



Discurso del Acto de Grado en Barinas en 12 de Febrero del 2005 Queridos Graduandos:



Mas que un discurso, quiero dirigirles algunas palabras que escribi anoche, despues de visitar en las clinicas, a los estudiantes heridos, a consecuencia de los enfrentamientos con la policia de hace apenas dos dias.



Me ha tocado por razones del destino, ser la persona que les otorgue el titulo que bien merecieron con sus estudios. Y me siento sumamente orgulloso de serlo. Me consta que la Universidad de Los Llanos Occidentales Ezequiel Zamora, a pesar de lo dicho por los enemigos de esta universidad, es una universidad de primera.



No tendremos la mejor planta fisica, en los salones hace calor. En el comedor hace calor. Pero no es en lo material que las cosas deben valorarse. El mayor capital es el ser humano. Y en eso, nuestra UNELLEZ, lo digo con conocimiento de causa, esta sobrada. Los llaneros venezolanos son nobles, valientes, de coraje.



En la UNELLEZ hacen vida, en este momento, aproximadamente 67000 personas. El 97% de ellas son estudiantes. Jovenes que, como Ustedes hasta el dia de hoy, buscan ese titulo, que constata los anos de dedicacion y de estudio.



Los jovenes son el rio de la vida, ustedes graduados deben ser los capitanes de esos barcos que naveguen por el rio de la vida.



Nuestra Patria atraviesa momentos muy dificiles porque decidio dejar de ser esa matrona de edad vetusta y complaciente, para ser joven, rebelde y altanera. Nuestra imagen ya no es la de una acaudalada ricachona mayamera. En nuestro rostro brilla ahora la sonrisa del Che Guevara, con su diente delantero torcido, su pelo largo y su boina con la estrella.



Entender esto, a mi me ha tomado practicamente toda la vida. Tengo 53 anos, y ya perdi mi oportunidad de derramar sangre joven a causa de un ideal.



Ustedes son jovenes, estan en la flor de la vida. No cometan por favor el error de renunciar a su instinto de rebelion. El Che Guevara fue Ministro de a Economia en Cuba. Los billetes y las monedas se adornaban con su rostro. Nada de eso le importo. Primero fue a Angola donde paso un penoso ano de combate. Despues se fue a Bolivia, donde encontro la muerte. El Che era el ultimo que comia, el que cargaba la mochila mas pesada. Siempre se sacrificaba por los demas en un estoicismo que mas parecia fervor religioso que ideologia marxista.



Si quieren un modelo de vida. Ahi lo tienen.



Dije hace unos momentos que el 97% de la poblacion de la UNELLEZ es estudiante. Se imaginan Ustedes la Universidad que podriamos tener si todos los estudiantes tuvieran la abnegacion, la combatividad del Che?



Los momentos que se avecinan van a requerir de una gran unidad del pueblo venezolano. La alternativa de continuar siendo libres o regresar a la pobreza se nos planteara en los proximos dias de forma enmascarada, o quizas peor, desenmascarada, vestida con uniforme de soldado del Imperio.



Por nuestra parte podemos esperar lo mejor. La macroeconomia no podria ir mejor, la justicia social ha mejorado notablemente. Las misiones ocupan un papel muy importante en el pago de dicha justicia social. Aqui en Barinas ya hemos cumplido con dos de las misiones, la mision Robinson y la mision Sucre. No hay analfabetismo y no hay exclusion en la educacion superior, en estas tierras de Zamora.



Pero ay malhaya! Son precisamente estos exitos los que nos hacen mas antipaticos al Imperio. Para ellos, somos inclusive un mal ejemplo que se esta contagiando al resto del continente y cuidado sino al resto del mundo.



Nunca venceremos al Imperio. Estara siempre ahi, acechando. Por lo menos hasta que el mismo no se autodestruya. Porque, sepanlo senores, el neoliberalismo es canibal. Cuando le ataque el hambre, se devorara a si mismo.



Ustedes, queridos graduandos, a partir de hoy pasan a conformar la elite profesional que debe sostener este pais en los proximos cuarenta o cincuenta anos. Anos decisivos para el logro de nuestra libertad y del rescate de nuestra Soberania.



No se dejen comprar. No se dejen corromper. No se dejen gritar. No se dejen pisar. Que nadie les diga que comer, o que vestirse, o que leer. Sean siempre autenticos, rebeldes, contestatarios. Pero eso si, profundamente patriotas, dignos de ser hijos de Bolivar.



Muchas gracias y que Dios los bendiga.





Alguna duda?



Medio siglo de Holocausto Palestino



Oscar Zanartu Nacio en Caracas en 1960. Ha realizado exposiciones individuales en las galerias Minotauro, Clave y San Francisco, y en salas de Coro, estado Falcon, y Puerto Ordaz, estado Bolivar. En Paris su obra ha sido exhibida en el Centro Cultural Tanagra, en la Exposicion Cite Internationale des Arts, en las galerias De Mars y Arver Space, al igual que en la Galeria Municipal Levallois, en Levallois Perret (Francia). En muestras colectivas, su obra se ha expuesto en Belgica, Francia, Estados Unidos y Venezuela; en Caracas intervino en la exposicion "Del genesis a la memoria", 1995, organizada por la Fundacion La Previsora. En 1982 obtuvo el Premio Nacional Critven y en 1990 la Mencion de Honor Jose Antonio Paez, en la Embajada de Venezuela en Paris. En 1991 se le concedio el primer premio de Pintura Itinerante, en Levallois Perret, Francia.



OZ1



OZ2



OZ3



OZ4



Homenaje a Jason Galarraga



La Victoria de Samotracia



Odalisca



Mas fotos de la nevada del pasado agosto 2008



























La Sierra Nevada de Merida



Nuestro precioso Churum Meru



Homenaje a Picasso



Autoretrato



Sabes lo que bebes en una Coca-Cola?

La formula de la Pepsi tiene una diferencia basica con la de la Coca-Cola y es intencional, para evitar el proceso judicial. La diferencia es a proposito, pero suficientemente parecida como para atraer a los consumidores de Coca-Cola que prefieren un gusto diferente con menos sal y azucar.

Mi profesion?

Tuve que aprender quimica, entender todo sobre componentes de gaseosas, conservantes, sales, acidos, cafeina, enlatado, produccion, permisos, aprobaciones y muchas otras cosas. Monte mi propio mini-laboratorio de analisis de productos.

Sal en la Coca Cola?

A patadas. El Cloruro de Sodio no solo refresca sino da mas sed, como para pedir otra gaseosa. Y no resulta desagradable porque la sal mata literalmente la sensibilidad al dulce... del que por cierto tambien tiene mucho: 39 gramos de azucar.

De los 350 gramos de producto liquido, mas del 10% es azucar, o sea que en una lata de Coca-Cola mas de un centimetro y medio es puro azucar en polvo. Aproximadamente tres cucharadas soperas llenas de azucar por lata!!La formula de la Coca Cola es muy sencilla:

Concentrado de azucar quemado caramelo- para dar color oscuro y gusto

Acido fosforito (para darle el sabor acido)

azucar (HFCS-jarabe de maiz de alta fructosa)

Extracto de hojas de la planta de Coca (Africa e India) y otros pocos aromatizantes naturales de otras plantas

Mucha Cafeina

Conservante que puede ser Benzoato de Sodio o Potasio

Dioxido de Carbono en cantidad para sentir freir la lengua cuando se bebe

Sal para dar la sensacion de refrigeracion

El uso del acido fosforito y no del acido citrico como en todas las demas gaseosas, es para dar la sensacion de dientes y boca limpia al beber. El acido fosforito literalmente frie todo y dana el esmalte de los dientes, cosa que el acido citrico lo hace en menor grado.Trate de comprar acido fosforito para ver las mil recomendaciones de seguridad que te dan para su manipulacion (quema el cristalino del ojo, quema la piel, etc...). Esta prohibido usar el acido fosforito en cualquier otra gaseosa; solo la Coca Cola tiene permiso. Porque claro, sin el acido fosforico, la Coca Cola sabria a jabon.El extracto de coca y otras hojas casi no cambia en nada el sabor. Es mas bien un efecto cosmetico. El extracto forma parte de la Coca-Cola porque legalmente tiene que ser asi. Pero sin el, no se nota ninguna diferencia en el gusto, que esta dado basicamente por las cantidades diferentes de azucar, azucar quemada, sales, acidos y conservantes.Sabor a que...? ja, ja, ja.

Aqui en Bartow, sur de Orlando, hay una empresa quimica que produce aromatizantes y esencias para zumos. Envian diariamente camionadas de sales concentradas y esencias para las fabricas de helados, gaseosas, jugos, enlatados y comida colorida y aromatizada.Cuando visite por primera vez la fabrica, pedi ver el deposito de concentrados de frutas, que deberia ser inmenso, especialmente los de naranja, pina, fresa y tantos otros. El encargado me miro, se rio y me llevo a visitar los depositos inmensos... pero de colorantes y componentes quimicos.

Las gaseosa de naranja no contiene naranja.

En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspension estan hechos de goma (una liga quimica que envuelve un semi-polimero).

Pina, es un popurri de acidos y goma.

La esencia para helado de aguacate usa peroxido de hidrogeno (agua oxigenada) para dar la sensacion espumosa tipica del aguacate.

Bebidas Light?

Quieres saber la cantidad de basura que tiene un refresco 'light'? Yo ni siquiera los uso para destapar mi lavaplatos pues temo que danen los tubos de PVC. Los productos endulzantes 'ligth' tienen una vida media muy corta. Por ejemplo el

Despues de toda mi experiencia con la produccion de bebidas embasadas, puedo afirmar sin dudar un segundo: la mejor bebida es el agua, como tambien los jugos exprimidos de naranja o limon. Nada mas, cero azucar y cero sal.



Publicado por loretahur



En realidad, la formula secreta de la Coca-Cola se puede detallar en 18 segundos en cualquier espectrometro optico, y basicamente la conocen hasta los perros. Lo que ocurre es que no se puede fabricar igual, a no ser que uno disponga de unos cuantos millones de dolares para ganarle la demanda que te metera la Coca-Cola ante la justicia (ellos no perderian).La formula de la Pepsi tiene una diferencia basica con la de la Coca-Cola y es intencional, para evitar el proceso judicial. La diferencia es a proposito, pero suficientemente parecida como para atraer a los consumidores de Coca-Cola que prefieren un gusto diferente con menos sal y azucar.Tuve que aprender quimica, entender todo sobre componentes de gaseosas, conservantes, sales, acidos, cafeina, enlatado, produccion, permisos, aprobaciones y muchas otras cosas. Monte mi propio mini-laboratorio de analisis de productos.A patadas. El Cloruro de Sodio no solo refresca sino da mas sed, como para pedir otra gaseosa. Y no resulta desagradable porque la sal mata literalmente la sensibilidad al dulce... del que por cierto tambien tiene mucho: 39 gramos de azucar.De los 350 gramos de producto liquido, mas del 10% es azucar, o sea que en una lata de Coca-Cola mas de un centimetro y medio es puro azucar en polvo. Aproximadamente tres cucharadas soperas llenas de azucar por lata!!La formula de la Coca Cola es muy sencilla:Concentrado de azucar quemado caramelo- para dar color oscuro y gustoAcido fosforito (para darle el sabor acido)azucar (HFCS-jarabe de maiz de alta fructosa)Extracto de hojas de la planta de Coca (Africa e India) y otros pocos aromatizantes naturales de otras plantasMucha CafeinaConservante que puede ser Benzoato de Sodio o PotasioDioxido de Carbono en cantidad para sentir freir la lengua cuando se bebeSal para dar la sensacion de refrigeracionEl uso del acido fosforito y no del acido citrico como en todas las demas gaseosas, es para dar la sensacion de dientes y boca limpia al beber. El acido fosforito literalmente frie todo y dana el esmalte de los dientes, cosa que el acido citrico lo hace en menor grado.Trate de comprar acido fosforito para ver las mil recomendaciones de seguridad que te dan para su manipulacion (quema el cristalino del ojo, quema la piel, etc...). Esta prohibido usar el acido fosforito en cualquier otra gaseosa; solo la Coca Cola tiene permiso. Porque claro, sin el acido fosforico, la Coca Cola sabria a jabon.El extracto de coca y otras hojas casi no cambia en nada el sabor. Es mas bien un efecto cosmetico. El extracto forma parte de la Coca-Cola porque legalmente tiene que ser asi. Pero sin el, no se nota ninguna diferencia en el gusto, que esta dado basicamente por las cantidades diferentes de azucar, azucar quemada, sales, acidos y conservantes.Sabor a que...? ja, ja, ja.Aqui en Bartow, sur de Orlando, hay una empresa quimica que produce aromatizantes y esencias para zumos. Envian diariamente camionadas de sales concentradas y esencias para las fabricas de helados, gaseosas, jugos, enlatados y comida colorida y aromatizada.Cuando visite por primera vez la fabrica, pedi ver el deposito de concentrados de frutas, que deberia ser inmenso, especialmente los de naranja, pina, fresa y tantos otros. El encargado me miro, se rio y me llevo a visitar los depositos inmensos... pero de colorantes y componentes quimicos.Las gaseosa de naranja no contiene naranja.En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspension estan hechos de goma (una liga quimica que envuelve un semi-polimero).Pina, es un popurri de acidos y goma.La esencia para helado de aguacate usa peroxido de hidrogeno (agua oxigenada) para dar la sensacion espumosa tipica del aguacate.Quieres saber la cantidad de basura que tiene un refresco 'light'? Yo ni siquiera los uso para destapar mi lavaplatos pues temo que danen los tubos de PVC. Los productos endulzantes 'ligth' tienen una vida media muy corta. Por ejemplo el aspartamo , despues de tres semanas mojado, pasa a tener gusto de trapo viejo sucio.Para evitar eso, se agregan una infinidad de otros productos quimicos, uno para alargar la vida del aspartamo, otro para neutralizar el color, otro para mantener el tercer quimico en suspension porque sino el fondo de la gaseosa quedaria oscuro, otro para evitar la cristalizacion del aspartamo, otro para realzar el sabor, dar mas intensidad al acido citrico o fosforito que perderia su sabor por el efecto de los cuatro productos quimicos iniciales... y asi sucesivamente.Un consejo final !!Despues de toda mi experiencia con la produccion de bebidas embasadas, puedo afirmar sin dudar un segundo: la mejor bebida es el agua, como tambien los jugos exprimidos de naranja o limon. Nada mas, cero azucar y cero sal.Publicado por loretahur

MARGARINA o MANTEQUILLA La margarina fue producida originalmente para engordar a los pavos; cuandolo que hizo en realidad fue matarlos.Las personas que habian puesto el dinero para la investigacion quisieronrecobrarlo asi que empezaron a pensar en una forma de hacerlo.Tenian una sustancia blanca, que no tenia ningun atractivo como comestible,asi que le anadieron el color amarillo, para venderselo a lagente en lugar de la mantequilla.Que tal esa?... Ahora han sacado algunos nuevos sabores para vender mas alos incautos como usted y yo.CONOCE USTED la diferencia entre la margarina y la mantequilla?Siga leyendo hasta el final... porque se pone bastante interesante!Comparacion entre mantequilla y margarina:

1.- Ambas tienen la misma cantidad de calorias.

2.- La mantequilla es ligeramente mas alta en grasas saturadas: 8 gramos,comparada con los 5 gramos que tiene la margarina.

3.- Comer margarina en vez de mantequilla puede aumentar en 53% el riesgo deenfermedades coronarias en las mujeres, de acuerdo con un estudiomedico reciente de la Universidad de Harvard.

4.- Comer mantequilla aumenta la absorcion de gran cantidad de nutrientesque se encuentran en otros alimentos.

5.- La mantequilla provee beneficios nutricionales propios mientras lamargarina tiene solo los que le hayan sido anadidos al fabricarla.

6.- La mantequilla sabe mucho mejor que la margarina y mejora el sabor deotros alimentos.7.- La mantequilla ha existido durante siglos mientras que la margarinatiene menos de 100 anos.

Ahora... sobre la margarina:

1.- Es muy alta en acidos grasos trans. (Si, esos que recien ahora loscientificos descubrieron que son malisimos y los gobiernoscomenzaron a prohibirlos) .

2.- Triple riesgo de enfermedades coronarias.

3.- Aumenta el colesterol total y el LDL (el colesterol malo) y disminuye elHDL (el colesterol bueno).

4.- Aumenta en cinco veces el riesgo de cancer.

5.- Disminuye la calidad de la leche materna.

6.- Disminuye la reaccion inmunologica del organismo.

7.- Disminuye la reaccion a la insulina.

Y he aqui el factor mas inquietante (AQUI ESTA LA PARTE MAS INTERESANTE! ):A la margarina le falta UNA MOLECULA para ser PLASTICO...!!Solo este hecho es suficiente para evitar el uso de la margarina de porvida, y de cualquier otra cosa que sea hidrogenada (esto significaque se le anade hidrogeno, lo cual cambia la estructura molecular de lassubstancias).Usted puede ensayar lo siguiente:Compre un poco de margarina y dejela en el garaje o en un sitio sombreado.Dentro de unos dias notara dos cosas:

* No habra moscas; ni siquiera esos molestos bichos se le acercaran (esto yale debe decir a usted algo).

* No se pudre ni huele mal o diferente porque no tiene valor nutritivo; nadacrece en ella. Ni siquiera los diminutos microorganismos puedencrecer en ella.Por que? Porque es casi plastico!!



No a la guerra, Si a la Paz



Misterios de la ciencia...



Los costos de la guerra



medicos y capitalismo...



Capitalismo...



medicos (2)



Quien educa a nuestros hijos?



Los Medios...



Sin Palabras...



Chistes feministas

- Cual es el problema, Eva?

- Se que me has creado, que me has dado este hermoso jardin, todos estos maravillosos animales y esa serpiente con la que me muero de risa... pero no soy del todo feliz...

- Como es eso, Eva? - replico Dios desde las alturas.

- Me encuentro sola, y ademas estoy harta de comer manzanas...

- Bueno Eva, en tal caso, tengo una solucion... creare un hombre para ti.

- Que es un hombre?

- Un hombre sera una criatura imperfecta, con muchas artimanas. Mentira, hara trampas, sera engreido... vamos, que te va a dar problemas... Pero, va a ser mas fuerte y rapido que tu y le gustara cazar y matar cosas... Tendra un aspecto simple, pero como te estas quejando, le creare de tal forma que satisfaga tus... eh... necesidades fisicas... Y tampoco sera muy listo, y destacara en cosas infantiles como pegarse o dar patadas a un balon... Necesitara tu consejo siempre para actuar cuerdamente.

- Suena bien - dijo Eva, mientras levantaba la ceja ironicamente.

- Cual es el truco?.

- Pues... que lo tendras con una condicion.

- Cual?

- Como te decia, sera chulo, arrogante y muy narcisista... asi que le tendras que hacer creer que le hice a el primero... recuerda... es nuestro secreto... de mujer a mujer.





Por que a los hombres no les puede dar la enfermedad de las vacas locas?  Porque todos son unos cerdos

Un dia, en el Paraiso, Eva llamo a Dios: Tengo un problema.- Cual es el problema, Eva?- Se que me has creado, que me has dado este hermoso jardin, todos estos maravillosos animales y esa serpiente con la que me muero de risa... pero no soy del todo feliz... - Como es eso, Eva? - replico Dios desde las alturas.- Me encuentro sola, y ademas estoy harta de comer manzanas...- Bueno Eva, en tal caso, tengo una solucion... creare un hombre para ti.- Que es un hombre?- Un hombre sera una criatura imperfecta, con muchas artimanas. Mentira, hara trampas, sera engreido... vamos, que te va a dar problemas... Pero, va a ser mas fuerte y rapido que tu y le gustara cazar y matar cosas... Tendra un aspecto simple, pero como te estas quejando, le creare de tal forma que satisfaga tus... eh... necesidades fisicas... Y tampoco sera muy listo, y destacara en cosas infantiles como pegarse o dar patadas a un balon... Necesitara tu consejo siempre para actuar cuerdamente.- Suena bien - dijo Eva, mientras levantaba la ceja ironicamente.- Cual es el truco?.- Pues... que lo tendras con una condicion.- Cual?- Como te decia, sera chulo, arrogante y muy narcisista... asi que le tendras que hacer creer que le hice a el primero... recuerda... es nuestro secreto... de mujer a mujer.Por que a los hombres no les puede dar la enfermedad de las vacas locas?  Porque todos son unos cerdos

Ellas...



Ellas (2)...



Tres venganzas femeninas VENGANZA NUMERO 1

Hoy mi hija cumple 21 anos y estoy muy contento porque es el ultimo pago de pension alimenticia que le doy, asi que llame a mi hijita para que viniera a mi casa y cuando llego le dije:

-Hijita, quiero que lleves este cheque a casa de tu mama y que le digas que: Este es el ultimo maldito cheque que va recibir de mi en todo lo que le queda de su puta vida!!! Quiero que me digas la expresion que pone en su rostro.

Asi que mi hija fue a entregar el cheque. Yo estaba ansioso por saber lo que la bruja tenia que decir y que cara pondria.

Cuando mi hijita entro, le pregunte inmediatamente: -Que fue lo que te dijo tu madre?

-Me dijo que justamente estaba esperando este dia para decirte que no eres mi papa!



VENGANZA NUMERO 2

Un hombre que siempre molestaba a su mujer, paso un dia por la casa de unos amigos para que lo acompanaran al aeropuerto a dejar a su esposa que viajaba a Paris.

A la salida de inmigracion, frente a todo el mundo, el le desea buen viaje y en tono burlon le grita:

- Amor, no te olvides de traerme una hermosa francesita Ja ja ja!!

Ella bajo la cabeza y se embarco muy molesta.

La mujer paso quince dias en Francia.

El marido otra vez pidio a sus amigos que lo acompanasen al aeropuerto a recibirla.

Al verla llegar, lo primero que le grita a toda voz es:

- Y amor me trajiste mi francesita??

- Hice todo lo posible, - contesta ella - ahora solo tenemos que rezar para que nazca nina.



VENGANZA NUMERO 3

El marido, en su lecho de muerte, llama a su mujer. Con voz ronca y ya debil, le dice: - Muy bien, llego mi hora, pero antes quiero hacerte una confesion.

- No, no, tranquilo, tu no debes hacer ningun esfuerzo.

- Pero, mujer, es preciso - insiste el marido - Es preciso morir en paz.

Te quiero confesar algo.

- Esta bien, esta bien. Habla!

- He tenido relaciones con tu hermana, tu mama y tu mejor amiga.

- Lo se, lo se Por eso te envenene, hijo de puta!!!



machismo y cibernetica



Chiste machista La NASA ha enviado al espacio una mision experimental tripulada por dos monos y una mujer.Apenas abandona la atmosfera, se establece comunicacion con Houston.

-Atencion, simio 1, verifique sistemas hidraulicos, controle adecuada presion de los propulsores de arranque. A 60.000 pies disminuya un 25% la velocidad.

El simio hace la sena de OK.

-Atencion, simio 2, nivele al cruzar la estratosfera y active sistemas anticongelantes. No olvide monitorear sistemas de comunicacion e indicadores de presion. Comprendido?.

El simio hace la sena de OK.

-Atencion, Houston llamando a mujer: no se olvide.

-Mujer: Si, si, ya se! -interrumpe enojada- que no me olvide darles de comer a estos monos de mierda y que no se me vaya a ocurrir tocar nada!.



.Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti.

Un abogado mantiene un romance con su secretaria.Al poco tiempo, esta queda embarazada y el abogado, que no quiere que su esposa se entere, le da a la secretaria una buena suma de dinero y le pide que se vaya a parir a Italia.Esta pregunta: Y como voy a hacerte saber cuando nazca el bebe ? El abogado responde: Para que mi mujer no se entere, tan solo enviame una postal y escribe por detras: Spaghetti. Y no te preocupes mas, que yo me encargare de todos los gastos.

Pasan los meses y una manana la esposa del abogado lo llama al bufete, algo exaltada: Querido, acabo de recibir el correo y hay una postal muy extrana viene desde Italia. La verdad, no entiendo que significa.El abogado, tratando de ocultar sus nervios, contesta:Espera a que llegue a casa, a ver si yo entiendoCuando el hombre llega a casa y lee la postal, cae al suelo fulminado por un infarto.Llega una ambulancia y se lo lleva. Ya en el hospital, el jefe de cardiologia se queda consolando a la esposa y le pregunta cual ha sido el evento que precipito tan masivo ataque cardiaco.

Entonces la esposa saca la postal y se la muestra diciendole: No me explico, doctor; el solamente leyo esta postal. Vea usted mismo lo que trae escrito.Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti."Tres con salchicha y albondigas y dos con almejas



Gol !!!!



Chistes de Borrachos Entra un borracho a su casa todo manchado con lapiz labial por todos lados hecho un desastre, y la mujer le pregunta:-Hombre que te paso?Y el borracho le responde:-No me vas a creer, me pelee con un payaso!



Este es un borracho que entra en un bar y le dice al camarero:-Me da cinco copas de whisky?Al rato:-Me da cuatro?Al rato:-Me da tres copas?Despues:-Me da dos copas?Luego le dice:-Me da una copa?Y le dice al camarero:-Ves? Cuanto menos bebo, mas borracho estoy!

Rainfall likely in West Bengal owing to low pressure area over Bay of Bengal; fishermen issued warning

Rain, hailstorm likely in Delhi today, fresh snowfall in Kashmir

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Rain and thunderstorm are likely in the national capital on Monday due to an active western disturbance originating over central parts of Afghanistan.

The India Meteorological Department had on Sunday predicted predicted thunderstorms in several parts of north-west India and heavy rain or snowfall in isolated areas over Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.

"Thunderstorm accompanied with hailstorm very likely at isolated places over Jammu Division, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh & Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, interior Odisha, central Maharashtra, Marathwada, Vidarbha and Madhya Pradesh on February 12," the IMD said in its report.

Delhi

The minimum temperature in Delhi is likely to hover around 14-degree centigrade, with maximum temperature at 21-degree centigrade, a slight rise of 2-4 degree centigrade from normal.

The change in weather is being attributed to "an active western disturbance that lies over central parts of Afghanistan at present.

Jammu and Kashmir

Fresh snowfall was on Monday recorded in many areas of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway for vehicular traffic.

The snowfall, however, snapped Kashmir's links with the rest of the country as the arterial Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was closed due to the accumulation of snow around Jawahar Tunnel in the Qazigund area.

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have set up helpline numbers for people to approach in case of emergencies across different districts.

Himachal Pradesh

The hills of Himachal Pradesh might experience more rain and snowfall in the next three days. Most of the prominent tourist towns like Shimla, Narkanda, Kufri, Kalpa, Dalhousie and Manali are likely to have light to moderate spells of snowfall.

There are chances of heavy rainfall and snowfall at some places in the state till Feb 12, IMD said.

Shimla saw season's first snowfall on January 23, while Manali, the popular tourist resort in Kullu valley, about 250 km from Shimla, experienced mild spell of snow on that day.

Uttarakhand

Parts of Uttarakhand like Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Dehradun, Pauri, Haridwar and Nanital are witnessing heavy rainfall today accompanied by hailstorm.

Wrapped in snow, Hindu pilgrimage site Kedarnath also welcomed an untimely change in the weather today.

Maharashtra

Unseasonal hailstorm and rains in parts of the state not only damaged crops but also claimed two lives in Jalna district a day ago. Hailstones weighing as much as 34 grams resulted in deaths of Namdev Shinde, 62, and Asaram Jagtap, 65 from Jalna.

Meanwhile, Light rain, measuring up to 4 mm to 7 mm, is expected over Pune, Ahmednagar, Kolhapur on Monday and widespread rain, up to 20 mm, is expected in Vidarbha and some of the adjoining parts of Marathwada until February 13.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 17:39 [IST]Masarat Alam will remain a non-starter in J&K thanks to Centres zero tolerance towards separatism

Save lives of soldiers, civilians, Congress says post Sunjuwan attack

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The Centre must take concrete steps to save the lives of soldiers and civilians, senior Congress leader, Ahmed Patel said in the backdrop of the Sunjuwan attack.

He said the current policies to fight terrorism are beyond his comprehension.

"I really don't understand the Centre's. During the UPA rule, they (BJP leaders) used to say all kinds of things. They used to say stop writing love letters (to Pakistan), talk tough with them and what not..." Patel told reporters while responding to a query regarding the Jammu terror attack.

group of heavily armed men struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in Sunjwan before dawn yesterday. Six people, including five Army personnel, were killed in the attack by suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed militants.

"Government needs to take this issue seriously now. Sometime they talk about 'hot policy'; then they turn 'cold' and engage in talks. Our NSA (National Security Adviser) holds talks in some other country (with Pakistan NSA). All such things will lead us nowhere. Government should do something concrete to save lives of civilians and soldiers," the Rajya Sabha MP said.

OneIndia News

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 6:20 [IST]SKM to observe May 26 as 'black day' to mark 6 months of protest against farm laws

Selling pakoda proves costly for 4 JNU students, varsity slaps Rs 20,000 fine on each protester

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia

New Delhi, Feb 12: Pakodas (fritters, hogging the limelight, thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promoting the cause of the snack after chai (tea)) have really become pricey.

Till recently, selling pakodas was any other usual job many Indians were forced to do under the open sky. However, these days, again thanks to PM Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s pakodanomics (insisting jobless to take up selling pakodas at roadside stalls), selling pakodas might prove to be a costly affair.

Four students of the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in the national capital were left with a 'bitter taste in their mouths' for selling pakodas. The students, all members of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) who took part in a protest on February 5 against Modi's pakoda-selling comment, were fined Rs 20,000 each by the JNU authorities.

During the protest the students sold pakodas outside the varsity building. Along with protest against the PM's comment, the students also expressed their displeasure over the JNU's latest rule of compulsory attendance for students.

According to The Indian Express, along with imposing fines on the students, the JNU authorities withdrew hostel facilities of one of the students and the rest were transferred from hostel.

"There is prima facie evidence that you were involved in blocking the road near Sabarmati bus stand and at T-point near Administrative Block since February 5, due to which inconvenience was caused to students, teachers, staff, visitors and schoolchildren.

"Vehicles carrying essential commodities to hostels, etc; were affected. Further, you were involved in forceful cooking of food at the protest site in spite of repeated requests from CSO (chief security officer) not to do this act. Moreover, you also forcefully laid an electric cable for screening of a movie at protest site at night. The above are acts of indiscipline and unbecoming of a student," read an order by the Chief Proctor dated February 9.

It said that "despite the letter from the Chief Proctor's office dated February 8, which stated 'clear the blockade immediately failing which strict disciplinary action may be initiated against you', you continue to occupy the location of your protest".

"The Vice-Chancellor, in exercise of the powers vested in him... has ordered to impose on you a fine of Rs 20,000 and transfer to another hostel from the present hostel accommodation with immediate effect," read notices issued to three students -- Alimuddin, Mukesh Kumar and Manish Meena.

Another, issued to Vikas Yadav, mentions the fine as well as "withdrawal of hostel facility with immediate effect for a period of two semesters", reported The Indian Express.

Recently, several NSUI members were detained by the police after they held a pakoda-selling protest outside the venue of Modi's rally in Bengaluru.

In an interview Modi stated, "If a person selling pakodas earns Rs 200 at the end of the day, will it be considered employment or not?"

The statement angered several people, as experts and the Opposition continue to attack the Centre on the employment scenario in the country.

OneIndia NewsCant presume all Covid deaths during second wave were due to negligence: SC

Cannot order for use of traditional remedies like Red Ant Chutney as cure for COVID-19: SC

Dont want terrorists to know what software is being used: Centre to SC on Pegasus row

Cant make an exception says SC while rejecting plea seeking COVID-19 compensations for lawyers kin

Shopian firing: SC to hear plea filed by Majors father to quash FIR against his son

India

oi-Madhuri

By Madhuri

The Supreme Court will on Monday hear the petition filed by the father of an Army personnel belonging to the 10 Garhwal Rifles booked in connection with the killing of three civilians in alleged firing incident in Jammu Kashmir's Shopian district.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra and Justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud considered advocate Aishwarya Bhati's submission that the plea be heard on an urgent basis and fixed the case for hearing on February 12.

In the plea, filed through Bhati, Singh said that the authorities were aware that the Major "was not there," but "in an arbitrary exercise of power, named my son as an accused."

The Jammu-Kashmir Police had lodged an FIR under Section 302 (murder charge) against the Army personnel of the unit and include a Major rank officer. The petition filed in the apex court seeks the quashing of the FIR.

The firing incident in Shopian district, Jammu and Kashmir, left two persons dead and nine injured.

The case was registered under sections 302 (murder) and 307 (attempt to murder), the officials said.

Two youth were killed and nine others injured allegedly in Army firing at Ganovpora in Shopian when a stone-pelting mob targeted a convoy. The Mehbooba Mufti-led state government had also ordered a magisterial probe into the incident.

Meanhwile, Veteran army personnel protest demanding withdrawal of FIR against Major Aditya Kumar & Army in connection with death of three civilians in Army firing in J&K's Shopian last month.

OneIndia NewsDont want terrorists to know what software is being used: Centre to SC on Pegasus row

Shopian firing: SC stays FIR against Army Major

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The Supreme Court has stayed the FIR lodged against Major Aditya Kumar who was booked by the Kashmir police following the Shopian incident. The SC restrained the J&K police from taking any coercive step against the Major.

This means neither Maj Aditya Kumar can be called for interrogation nor can he be arrested by the J&K police in the Shopian incident FIR. The court also directed the police to file its response in two weeks in response to the petition filed by the Major's father Lt Col (Retd) Karamveer Singh.

While seeking to quash the FIR, the father also said in his petition that Army personnel should be spared from criminal proceedings. He further sought for the setting up of guidelines to protect the dignity of soldiers and also spare them from criminal proceedings.

The petition said the police cannot file cases against army officers in Jammu and Kashmir, since AFSPA (the Armed Forces' Special Powers Act) is operating in the state. The law gives special powers to the army in insurgency-hit areas.

My son was doing his duty to protect the soldiers who were being stoned and about to be lynched... He carried out the orders of his superiors," the petition contended.

The officer's father, who is also serving in the army, said he was compelled to move the Supreme Court directly because of the "extremely hostile situation in Jammu and Kashmir". This, his petition said, became evident in the "manner of lodging the FIR" and the way it was projected by the state's political and administration heads. It appealed that the investigation be carried out in another state with independent and unbiased authorities.

The J&K police had filed an FIR against Major Aditya and others following an incident of stone pelting in Shopian in which two persons had died. The stone pelters in large numbers attacked the Army following which the personnel were forced to retaliate. The Army came out in support of its men and said that they responded only when they were provoked to the ultimate.

OneIndia NewsLiar Lashkar, it was the Jaish which struck at Sunjuwan

Sunjuwan: Army mans wife hit by terrorist bullets gives birth to baby girl

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

A pregnant woman injured in the Sunjuwan Army camp attack delivered a baby girl at the Satwari military hospital.

The wife of rifleman, Nazir Ahmed who was 35 weeks pregnant was shot in the lower back after terrorists of the Jaish-e-Mohammad attacked the camp.She was rushed to the military hospital in an Army chopper, where a caesarean section was performed on her on Sunday.

Army PRO, Lt Col Devendra Anand told reporters that the Army doctors worked all night to save the life of the severely injured pregnant woman with gunshot wounds and helped her deliver a baby girl, following a caesarean section operation.

"The woman delivered a baby girl weighing 2.5kg. The condition of both the mother and the baby are stable," he added.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah termed it a "good news". "Amidst the tragedy reports of some good news - an injured wife of one of the soldiers delivered a baby at the Military Hospital in Jammu," he said in a tweet.

OneIndia NewsLiar Lashkar, it was the Jaish which struck at Sunjuwan

Sunjuwan attack: NIA begins examining evidence

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

A team of the National Investigation Agency has started examining the evidence following the Sunjuwan camp attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

On Saturday, a group of heavily armed Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in the early hours around 5 am.

Six people, including five Army personnel, were killed while 10 others were injured in the attack by JeM terrorists.

Four terrorists were also killed in retaliatory action as the operation which began yesterday continued for a second day inside the sprawling military station along the Jammu- Pathankot bypass here.

Though a case has not been registered yet, the NIA team inspected the encounter site inside the camp and examined the evidence collected by the Army, the official said, on condition of anonymity.

The NIA is mandated to probe all terror-related cases in the country as per an act of Parliament.

NIA is already investigating the November 2016 Nagrota attack case in which seven Army personnel, including two officers, and three terrorists were killed.

It has already submitted a chargesheet in the Pathankot airbase attack case in which it had named JeM founder Masood Azhar as an accused.

The attack on the Pathankot air base took place on the intervening night of January 1-2, 2016, five days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Pakistan to wish then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on his birthday. It claimed the lives of seven security personnel. Four terrorists were also gunned down by the security forces while repulsing the attack.

Since this (Sunjwan) attack was also the handiwork of JeM terrorists, the NIA is looking for its link with previous cases which will help them in building a stronger case against Azhar and India can make a firm case at the United Nations, the official said.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 6:24 [IST]Liar Lashkar, it was the Jaish which struck at Sunjuwan

Sunjuwan: Subedar fought terrorists with his bare hands before making supreme sacrifice

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Subedar Madan Lal Choudhary, 50 made the ultimate sacrifice while fighting terrorists Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists who attacked the Sunjuwan Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir. He took on the terrorists with his bare hands and took bullets in his chest and arms before laying down his life.

Choudhary eventually fell to the AK 47 bullets fired by the terrorists, who attacked his quarter at Sunjuwan Army station in Jammu, but still foiled their plan to cause maximum damage.

A pall of gloom descended on this non-descript hamlet after the news of Madan Lal Choudhary's death reached here.

Yet, the people of the border belt of Hiranagar in Kathua district are proud of the brave son of soil who took on armed intruders with bare hands and saved his family and kin.

Madan Lal Choudhary's family had come to his quarter at the Military Station, Sunjuwan, as they needed to shop for the wedding of a relative.

"He mustered a lot of courage and saved the life of other family members by not allowing the terrorists to enter his quarter," his brother Surinder Choudhary said.

Surinder Choudhary said his brother managed to facilitate the exit of family members from the rear of the house as he blocked the entry of terrorists.

However, Madan Lal Choudhary's 20-year-old daughter Neha received a bullet injury in the leg while his sister-in-law Paramjeet also received minor injuries. But all of them managed to survive.

"I am proud of my younger brother who braved bullets, fought heavily armed terrorists with bare hands to save family members and kin. Had he failed to save them, the entire family would have been wiped out. He foiled the terrorists' plan to cause maximum causalities," Surinder Choudhary said.

Madan Lal Choudhary, who rose to the post of a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) - a Subedar - belonged to a family of defence force personnel.

His elder brother Shamsher Singh is an ex-serviceman, his son Ankush a Captain in the Indian Army, and his nephew Sandeep is in the Indian Air Force.

He is survived by father Inder Chand and mother Banti Devi besides three brothers.

The elderly parents father and mother were unaware about their loss till Saturday evening even as the people and relatives thronged their residence.

It was only when Madan Lal Choudhary's wife Karamjeet and his elder brother Shamsher reached home, that they were told about the news of his death.

People of the village, who witnessed the terror of partition in 1947 and are refugees from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), were proud of Madan Lal Choudhary's sacrifice.

"We are proud of him. He has fought armed terrorists with bare hands and save all of the family members and some kin. He should be awarded," Dhyan Chand, a villager, said.

Family members, however, lament that at a time they were preparing for the marriage of his nephew Sandeep in April, they are forced to come to grips with this painful reality.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 6:29 [IST]Talks with Pakistan must to stop bloodshed, says Mehbooba Mufti

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday called for talks with Pakistan, saying there was no other option to stop the "bloodshed" in the state.

The Chief Minister's appeal comes amid a spurt in militant violence in the state as well as unending border clashes between Indian and Pakistani armies.

In a tweet, Mufti said that dialogue with Pakistan was necessary to end bloodshed and war was not an option.

" I know I will be labelled anti-national by news anchors tonight but that doesn't matter. The people of J&K are suffering. We have to talk because war is not an option," she added.

Speaking in the state assembly, later in the day, Mehbooba hit out at some media houses for labelling those favoring dialogues with Pakistan as "anti-nationals".

"Unfortunately, some media houses have created an atmosphere that if we talk of dialogue (with Pakistan) then we are labelled anti-national," said Mufti.

"We fought and won all wars against Pakistan but even now there is no solution other than dialogue, till when will our jawans and civilians keep dying," Mufti said in the J&K assembly on Monday.

The chief minister's appeal for dialogue comes as the restive state reels from a terror attack on an Army camp in Jammu's Sunjuwan, which left five soldiers and a civilian dead and 10 others wounded.

Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba claimed responsibility for the attack, and also for the attempted infiltration of the Karan Nagar CRPF camp, where one jawan lost his life in a gunbattle with the ultras.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 18:01 [IST]Why the Tripura verdict will have an impact on Karnataka Assembly Elections 2018

Tripura elections 2018: 11 party activist murdered in last 13 months, claims BJP

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

A week prior to the elections, a missing BJP booth president was found hanging on tree at Barjala in Tripura on Sunday. Booth president of Ramnagar Sri Madhusudan Deb went missing for two days. BJP leaders alleged that CPM goons are behind this murder.

BJP chief Amit Shah, who is in Tripura, said, "One of our booth workers was abducted, for two days he was untraceable after our workers pressurised the DGP we got to know that he was killed and hanged from a tree, by CPIM cadre. Authorities here work under CPIM's pressure."

BJP National Executive Committee Member and in charge of Tripura State, Sunil Deodhar said, "Seven days prior to elections, one more exasperated crime to spread terror. The dead body of Madhu Deb, booth president in Ramnagar constituency found hanging on a tree at Barjala. He had gone missing two days back. This is 11th BJP Tripura activist murdered in last 13 months."

READ MORE: Tripura elections 2018: Opinion poll predicts end of CPI(M) rule

Seven days prior to elections, one more exasperated crime to spread terror. Dead body of Madhu Deb, booth president in Ramnagar constituency found hanging on tree at Barjala. He had gone missing 2 days back. This is 11th @BJP4Tripura activist murdered in last 13 months. pic.twitter.com/vQuzptGLDJ  Sunil Deodhar (@Sunil_Deodhar) February 11, 2018

Assam minister Himant Biswa Sarma said, "Much to our shock and horror we discover today that our missing booth president of Ramnagar Sri Madhusudan Deb is brutally murdered by CPI (M) goons. The white attire of Manik Sarkar ji is getting deeply stained by the blood of innocent and people shall avenge this soon. Shame!"

The election for the 60-member Assembly was scheduled to be held on February 18 while the counting will take place on March 3. Some 297 candidates, including 20 women, are in the fray.

Tripura Assembly Party 2013 Current Standing CPIM 49 50 Election Date : Feb 18 2018

Counting : Mar 03 2018 CONG 10 02 CPI 01 01 BJP 00 06 OTHERS 00 00 Total 60 59 (1 Vacant)

OneIndia NewsThis blog will focus on political images I have found all around the Internet, though I will intersperse some commentary and quotes that I find interesting.Who is Vikas Sathaye? Engineer felicitated at science-tech Oscar awards for aerial photography

India

oi-Madhuri

By Madhuri

Vikas Sathaye, who grew up in the Mumbai's Mulund, was honoured with the scientific and engineering award at the Oscars 2018 Scientific and Technical Awards on Saturday.

Born in Pune in 1967, grew up in Mulund where he attended NGP High School. After completing his school eduacations, Sathaye completed a diploma in instrumentation from VPM's polytechnic, Thane. He further studied BE in electronics from VIT Pune, and an M-Tech in instrumentation from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore.

In 1999, he took up a job in Tata Honeywell as an industrial trainee after which he moved to New Zealand where he worked for Shotover Camera Systems.

In 2009, Sathaye joined a new company called Shotover Camera Systems in Queenstown and worked on the aerial mount. The Shotover's gyro-stabilised camera platforms can be attached to helicopters and configured for Hollywood's most advanced cameras.

In 2012, Sathaye decided to relocate to Adelaide, Australia where he has lived for the last five years. During that time, Shotover K1 has been used in many Hollywood blockbusters and in March 2017, it received a Technical Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of Camera Operators after which, the company decided to recommend K1 for the Science and Technology Academy Awards.

OneIndia NewsCongress prime opposition to BJP in UP, will win without SP, BSP alliance: Ajay Kumar Lallu

Youth Congress protests against RSS Chief's army remark despite clarification

India

oi-Shreya

The Indian Youth Congress on February 12 staged a protest and disrupted traffic in Delhi against RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's remark on the Indian Army, despite a clarification by Mohan Bhagwat himself.

Bhagwat had said that the RSS even though not a military organisation follows military discipline and if the Constitution permits, can prepare an army within six to seven months. This comment riled the Congress and evoked a stern response from party president Rahul Gandhi himself. Who seeked an apology from RSS.

On February 12, a day after the RSS Chief's remark made in Bihar, the RSS issued a clarificatiom saying that the RSS had no intention of hurting the sentiment of the Army.

Despite the clarification, Youth Congress workers staged a protest infront of their office and planned on walking to the RSS office to mark the protest.

Delhi police was quick to contain the situation and detained the protestors in no time. Traffic disruption has also been resolved.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 14:11 [IST]Where did the 'out of control' Chinese rocket debris land after re-entering Earth?

Planning a trip to Maldives: You can do so from July 15

Maldives crisis: Police releases additional evidence against Justice Ali Hameed Mohamed

International

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

Maldives Police Service has gathered additional evidence against arrested Supreme Court Justice Ali Hameed Mohamed in the ongoing investigation into the attempt to overthrow President Abdulla Yameen's government.

In the second major press conference, Maldives Police provided details of charges against several individuals for attempting to overthrow a legitimate government. Also, it released additional documentary evidence obtained during the course of the ongoing investigations.

The Police have found USD 215,000 and MVR 150,000 in a bag belonging to the Justice Ali Hameed Mohamed.

The Police confirmed that Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has in various ways aided the family of the Justice

The Police have obtained documentary evidence of a purchase of a flat with money obtained from bribes

The Police have confirmed that a prominent Maldivian business has loaned USD 2.4 million to the family of the Justice

Additionally, critical evidence and information crucial to the investigation has been recovered from a black suitcase which was removed from Endherimaage, Maafannu (the residence of Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom).

The Police have also obtained documentary evidence from the recently found suitcase that Member of Parliament Ahmed Faris Maumoon attempted to influence the Judiciary. The suitcase was retrieved from the home of an employee of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. This employee is currently in Police custody. There is further documentary evidence that confirms suspects, in this case, have purchased expensive overseas properties that do not correspond to their legal incomes.

Maldives police arrested the country's chief justice of the Supreme Court Abdulla Saeed and another judge, Ali Hameed hours after the government declared a state of emergency on February 5.

OneIndia NewsThe new Sultan of Oman: Haitham Bin Tariq Al, cousin of late Qaboos sworn in as new royal ruler

PM Modi in Oman: All you need to know about Shiva temple in Muscat

International

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered prayers at one of the oldest Shiva Temples in Muscat on Monday. The temple is also known as Motishwar Mandir. The temple is situated in Muscat's Matrah area and is said to have been constructed by merchants from Gujarat 125 years ago. It was renovated in 1999.

During the weekdays about 400 devotees visit the temple while on weekends 1500 to 4000 devotee. During the auspicious days/ festivals like Mahashivratri, Diwali, New Year Day etc. about 5000 to 15000 devotees visit the temple for prayers. On auspicious days and festivals, over 15,000 people pray at the Shiva Temple in Muscat. It is truly a vibrant centre of worship and spirituality.

There are three priests in Shiva Temple along with 3 support staff and 4 administrative staff working for Temple in addition to volunteers rendering their services according to their convenient timings.

The temple, Muscat is managed by Management of Hindu Temple recognized body by Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs. Management of Hindu Temple is a voluntary organization representing Banyan Merchant Community in Muscat- the community which has settled in Oman over centuries.

Shri Mahesh Raval, Shri Alpesh Joshi and Shri Shankar Narayan Rao, priests of Shri Shiva Temple perform various pujas and prayers as per Hindu religion rituals.

Following are the festivals celebrated in Shri Shiva Temple:

Vasant Panchmi Muscat Temple Anniversary

MahaShivratri Birthday of Lord Shiva

Ramnavmi Birthday of Lord Rama

Hanuman Jayanti Birthday of Lord Hanuman

Shravan Month The Holy Month of the Hindu Calendar when people offer prayers & fast.

Ganesh Festival Celebration of Lord Ganesha

LIVE : PM Shri @narendramodi offers prayers at Shiva Temple in Muscat, Oman. https://t.co/iw5c4D5Bzb  BJP (@BJP4India) February 12, 2018

OneIndia NewsPIA flight lands in Kabul, becomes first commercial airline to do so since Taliban takeover

On Afghanistan, Pak has to line up on broad majority of international community: Blinken

Sunjuwan attack: India creating war hysteria says Pakistan

International

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Pakistan has accused India of making irresponsible statements by blaming it for the Sunjuwan attack. The Indian media is making irresponsible statements even before any investigation had been initiated, Pakistan also said.

The Foreign Office spokesperson also accused India of carrying out a "smear campaign against Pakistan and the deliberate creation of war hysteria."

"It is a well established pattern that Indian officials begin making irresponsible statements and levelling unfounded allegations, even before any proper investigation in any incident has been initiated," the Foreign Office spokesperson said, when asked about the attack on Sunjuwan Army camp in Jammu.

"A particular segment in the Indian media runs with their innuendos to malign Pakistan and whips up public frenzy. We are confident that the world community would take due cognisance of India's smear campaign against Pakistan, and the deliberate creation of war hysteria," the spokesperson said.

A group of heavily armed Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists struck the sprawling camp of the 36 brigade of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in the early hours yesterday, triggering a gunbattle.

Security forces have neutralised three terrorists holed up in the Army camp while six people, including five Army personnel, were killed in the attack.

The latest attack on the camp took place nearly 15 months after the Jammu region was hit by a similar attack.

On November 29, 2016, terrorists had stormed the Army's Nagrota camp on the outskirts of the city, killing seven Army personnel, including two officers. Three terrorists were gunned down in the operation.

Intelligence inputs had warned of an attack on an Army or security establishment by Jaish-e-Mohammed in view of the death anniversary of Afzal Guru, who was hanged on February 9, 2013, for the 2001 attack on Parliament House.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, February 12, 2018, 6:15 [IST]LAC 2018 Recap: The Biggest London Affiliate Conference to Date

Published February 12, 2018 by OCR Editor

With LAC 2018 reaching its successful conclusion, we're bringing you some of the atmosphere from the floor, courtesy of J. Todd of APCW.

Yet another London Affiliate Conference is behind us now and we can now briefly summarize the event in terms of attendance and other significant factors. To start with, LAC 2018, was a resounding success, being the biggest one thus far, attracting a large number of affiliates and creating ample networking opportunities. This year's LAC is another proof that the industry is booming and improving and that the future looks bright for everybody involved, from affiliates to operators and game and software developers.

Great Atmosphere & Invaluable Insights

Like every year, LAC 2018 provided everybody in the attendance with some invaluable insights about the current state of the industry, latest trends, future prospects, and much more. During the working part of the conference, many interesting and relevant aspects were covered, including legislative changes in the UK and other parts of Europe in light of their potential impact on the industry.

Apart from this, affiliates and other guests at London Affiliate Conference had an opportunity to renew their existing and build fresh contacts in a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. You can see a part of that atmosphere in APCW's J. Todd's video embedded in this article. J. Todd took the opportunity to sit down with many of important industry players including our good partners from Rewards Affiliates and AffAlliance.

Although the video was recorded towards the end of the conference, so you can't see the even at its peak, the number of brands present at LAC 2018 is very impressive. There is no doubt that those attending LAC 2018 have had an opportunity to see some of the latest inventions and were among first to be introduced to new gaming titles the rest of the public will get to enjoy somewhat later.

All in Good Fun

As is evident from the video, London Affiliate Conference is a relaxed and laid-back event for industry insiders looking to further their businesses. Everything always happens in good fun and, to an outsider, it may seem like this is all one big party.

However, LAC is much more than that. The casino industry may have its own way of doing things, but most guests and delegates take their businesses very seriously. They just like to also enjoy themselves and have a few laughs while negotiating new deals and seeking new partnership opportunities.

With LAC 2018 being a great success, there is little to no doubt that the next year's event will be even bigger and attract even more visitors, further establishing the conference as the go-to place for everyone involved with the gambling affiliation and the gambling industry in general. We at Online Casino Reports had a great time at LAC and we're looking forward to Amsterdam in July!Welcome Guest! You Are Here:

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From Dispatches From The Edge

A Dangerous Turn In U.S. Foreign Policy

The Trump administration's new National Defense Strategy is being touted as a sea change in U.S. foreign policy, a shift from the "war on terrorism" to "great power competition," a line that would not be out of place in the years leading up to World War I. But is the shift really a major course change, or a re-statement of policies followed by the last four administrations?

The U.S. has never taken its eyes off its big competitors.

It was President Bill Clinton who moved NATO eastwards, abrogating a 1991 agreement with the Russians not to recruit former members of the Warsaw Pact that is at the root of current tensions with Moscow. And, while the U.S. and NATO point to Russia's annexation of the Crimea as a sign of a "revanchist" Moscow, it was NATO that set the precedent of altering borders when it dismembered Serbia to create Kosovo after the 1999 Yugoslav war.

It was President George W. Bush who designated China a "strategic competitor," and who tried to lure India into an anti-Chinese alliance by allowing New Delhi to violate the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Letting India purchase uranium on the international market -- it was barred from doing so by refusing to sign the NPT -- helped ignite the dangerous nuclear arms race with Pakistan in South Asia.

And it was President Barack Obama who further chilled relations with the Russians by backing the 2014 coup in the Ukraine, and whose "Asia pivot" has led to tensions between Washington and Beijing.

So is jettisoning "terrorism" as the enemy in favor of "great powers" just old wine, new bottle? Not quite. For one thing the new emphasis has a decidedly more dangerous edge to it.

In speaking at Johns Hopkins, Defense Secretary James Mattis warned, "If you challenge us, it will be your longest and worst day," a remark aimed directly at Russia. NATO ally Britain went even further. Chief of the United Kingdom General Staff, Nick Carter, told the Defense and Security Forum that "our generation has become used to wars of choice since the end of the Cold War," but "we may not have a choice about conflict with Russia," adding "The parallels with 1914 are stark."

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(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).Trump promised to drain the swamp. But often, Trump's word mean something other than what most people would take them to mean. Now that he's been in office for over a year, I think it's become clear that what he meant was to make the swamp nice and cozy, neat, clean and welcoming to its denizens. Most people took Trump to mean he was going to clean up the swamp and get rid of the dark, slimy creatures inhabiting the swamp. But actually, it appears that not only did he like the creatures in the swamp, he was planning to make the swamp more attractive to more slimy creatures, only more powerful, like the billionaires and CEOs he's appointed. Trump just recently tweeted again about draining the swamp. According to the @nytimes, a Russian sold phony secrets on Trump to the U.S. Asking price was $10 million, brough https://t.co/CBMaAX5VMt at https://t.co/CBMaAX5VMt  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 10, 2018 So, he's talking about getting rid of anyone who asks questions about him, or maybe, who asks questions about Republicans. I think, in his world, draining the swamp means making it malignant narcissist Trump friendly, and friendly to corporate and plutocrat predators. At least, that's how it looks from my perspective. What do you think?

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Rob Kall is an award winning journalist, inventor, software architect, connector and visionary. His work and his writing have been featured in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, CNN, ABC, the HuffingtonPost, Success, Discover and other media. Check out his platform at RobKall.com He is the author of The Bottom-up Revolution; Mastering the Emerging World of Connectivity He's given talks and workshops to Fortune 500 execs and national medical and psychological organizations, and pioneered first-of-their-kind conferences in Positive Psychology, Brain Science and Story. He hosts some of the world's smartest, most interesting and powerful people on his Bottom Up Radio Show, and founded and publishes one of the top Google- ranked progressive news and opinion sites, OpEdNews.com more detailed bio: Rob Kall has spent his adult life as an awakener and empowerer-- first in the field of biofeedback, inventing products, developing software and a music recording label, MuPsych, within the company he founded in 1978-- Futurehealth, and founding, organizing and running 3 conferences: Winter Brain, on Neurofeedback and consciousness, Optimal Functioning and Positive Psychology (a pioneer in the field of Positive Psychology, first presenting workshops on it in 1985) and Storycon Summit Meeting on the Art Science and Application of Story-- each the first of their kind. Then, when he found the process of raising people's consciousness and empowering them to take more control of their lives one person at a time was too slow, he founded Opednews.com-- which has been the top search result on Google for the terms liberal news and progressive opinion for several years. Rob began his Bottom-up Radio show, broadcast on WNJC 1360 AM to Metro Philly, also available on iTunes, covering the transition of our culture, business and world from predominantly Top-down (hierarchical, centralized, authoritarian, patriarchal, big) to bottom-up (egalitarian, local, interdependent, grassroots, archetypal feminine and small.) Recent long-term projects include a book, Bottom-up-- The Connection Revolution, debillionairizing the planet and the Psychopathy Defense and Optimization (more...)



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On 14-15 February, 2018 NATO Defence Ministers will meet in Brussels again to discuss the main threats the world faces nowadays. NATO consists of 29 member states but 22 of them are simultaneously the EU member states. Speaking in general, the decisions, taken by NATO, are binding on the EU. On the one hand, NATO and the US, as its main financial donor, and Europe very often have different goals. Their interests and even views on the ways to achieve security are not always the same. The more so the differences exist inside the EU either.

A European military level of ambitions has grown significantly in recent times. Decision to establish a European Union defence pact, known as a Permanent Structured Cooperation on security and defence (PESCO) at the end of the previous year became a clear indicator of this trend. It is the first real attempt to form the EU independent defence without reliance on NATO.

Though the EU member states actively support the idea of closer European cooperation in security and defence, they do not always agree on the European Union's work in this area. In reality not all the states are ready to spend more on defence even in the framework of NATO, which requires spending at least 2 percent of their GDP. Thus, according to NATO's own figures, only the US (not an EU member state), Great Britain (leaving the EU), Greece, Estonia, Poland and Romania in 2017 met the requirement. So other countries probably would like to strengthen their defence but are not capable or even do not want to pay additional money for a new EU military project. It should be noted that only those countries that have a great dependence on NATO support and have no chance to protect themselves, spend 2 percent of their GDP on defence or show readiness to increase spending (Latvia, Lithuania) .

Such EU member states as France and Germany are ready to " lead the process " without increasing in contributions. They have higher level of strategic independence than the Baltic States or other countries of Eastern Europe.

For example, French military-industrial complex is capable of producing all kinds of modern weapons - from infantry weapons to ballistic missiles, nuclear submarines, aircraft carriers and supersonic aircraft.

The more so, Paris maintains stable diplomatic relations with the Middle East and African States. France also has the reputation of a long-standing partner of Russia and is able to find a common language with Moscow in crisis situations. It pays much attention to national interests beyond its boundaries.

It is also important that recently Paris presented the most elaborated plan of creating by 2020 the integrated pan-European rapid reaction forces primarily for the use in expeditionary operations to enforce peace in Africa. The military initiative of French President Macron contains 17 points aimed at improving the training of troops of the European countries, as well as increasing the degree of combat readiness of the national armed forces. At the same time, the French project will not become a part of existing institutions, but will be implemented in parallel with NATO projects. France intends persistently "promote" the project among the other EU allies.

Other EU member states' interests are not so global. They form their politics on security and defence in order to strengthen the EU capabilities to protect themselves and attract attention to their own shortcomings. They can offer nothing but few troops. Their interests do not extend beyond their own borders and they are not interested in dispersing efforts for example through Africa.

The EU leadership and member states have not yet reached an agreement on the concept of military integration, the start of which was given since the adoption the decision to establish a Permanent Structured Cooperation on security and defence .

In particular, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs , Federica Mogherini , proposes a long-term approach to stimulating a closer integration of the European military planning, procurement and deployment, as well as the integration of diplomatic and defence functions. Such a slow progress is more comfortable for NATO officials, who are alarmed by the revolutionary French project.

That is why Secretary General Stoltenberg warned his French counterparts against rash steps toward European military integration, which could lead to his mind to unnecessary duplication of the alliance's capabilities and, most dangerous, generate competition between the leading weapon manufacturers (France, Germany, Italy and some other European countries) while reequipping the European army with modern models to bring them to the same standard.

Thus, while supporting the idea of closer cooperation in military sphere the EU member states have no common strategy. It will take long time to come to the compromise and to the balance in creating strong EU defence system, which will complement the existing NATO structure and will not collide with it. A long way to common views means for Europe a long way to own European defence.Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.



North Korea

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North Korea's modern history extends back to the Russo-Japanese War, which ended when the Treaty of Portsmouth was signed on Sept. 5, 1905, at the Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. This peace agreement was facilitated by President Theodore Roosevelt, who received a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts.

The treaty recognized Japan's claims to Korea and much of Manchuria and established the Japanese military as a force to be reckoned with among Western powers. It also established the U.S. as a major force for peaceful resolution of international conflicts.

The Japanese occupation of Korea lasted until the end of World War II, during which time Japan was ruthless in punishing any signs of dissent. During the war, more than 5 million Korean men were conscripted as laborers, resulting in as many as half a million deaths, and 200,000 as soldiers for service in Japan's war, while tens of thousands of young women were forced into becoming "comfort women" (prostitutes).

After the war the Americans assumed control of the south and the Soviets over the north of Korea, with headquarters in Pyongyang. From 1950 to 1953, the Korean War resulted in the deaths of several millions Koreans and Chinese, as well as 54,000 Americans. North Korea suffered enormously from the carpet bombing by the American Air Force, killing as much as a quarter of the population. This devastation is deeply embedded in North Korean consciousness and continues to underlie their view of America.

There is a saying: "There are none so blind as those who will not see, nor none so deaf as those who will not hear," an expression that is appropriate to the North Korean dilemma. What has brought North Korea to its present heightened state of fear and aggression is based on historical circumstances that American politicians should take into account when considering its present pugnaciousness.

North Korea, with its 25 million people, is being led by a man in his 30s, who, like his father, shows scant regard for human rights and continues to severely punish any internal criticisms of his regime. South Korea, with a population of 50 million, is occupied by American forces with 15 military bases and a $1 billion military base on Jeju Island still under construction. Compared to the American colossus, North Korea is a minuscule power suffering from U.N. sanctions.

Aid agencies estimate that 18 million North Koreans are experiencing food shortages, and U.N. Assistant Secretary General Miroslav Jenca reports food prices are have risen 160 percent since last April. Sanctions are causing enormous harm, but not to the nuclear program. Rather, it is poorer people living in marginal circumstances who are now under serious threat of famine.

The idea that increasing sanctions will force the leaders to abandon their nuclear program has not worked in the past nor will it now . Major powers have large nuclear arsenals, while smaller nuclear powers such as Israel, Pakistan and India are hardly criticized, even as they threaten their neighbors. Yet, North Korea has become part of an "axis of evil," a view promulgated by former President George W. Bush and taken up by President Donald Trump, which indicates just how deeply entrenched political hypocrisy can be.

The North Korean leadership seems to believe it needs nuclear weapons as a deterrence to prevent invasion. But more conciliatory measures have been taken in the past to reduce tensions and work toward mutually acceptable agreements.

In the late 1990s, South Korea adopted a "sunshine policy" under former President Kim Dae-jung whose diplomatic efforts were meant to achieve reconciliation. But the Bush administration undermined those efforts when it declared North Korea a rogue state, resulting in North Korea's decision to continue to develop their nuclear weapon capabilities. Moon Jae-in, the current South Korean president, has been attempting to revive the "sunshine policy," knowing that only direct talks could possibly facilitate the freezing of North Korea's missile program.

There is so much that the U.S. could do to reduce tension, but when the current administration views the world only in terms of competition and dominance, rather than partnership and cooperation, we are all going to suffer the consequences.

Surrounding North Korea with more military bases and warships only exacerbates the paranoia of Pyongyang, which views signs of military buildups as extremely provocative. Working toward reconciliation and practicing patience while taking into account the basis of North Korea's bellicosity may help provide a way to work out a long-term solution.

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From Paul Craig Roberts Website

Defending the latest round of US/Israeli aggression against Syria, US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert struck a Hitlerian note when she blamed Syria and Iran for an act of overt Israeli aggression, saying "The United States ... strongly supports Israel's sovereign right to defend itself," and when she lied that "Iran's malign activities" and "calculated escalation of threat and its ambition to project its power and dominance places all people in the region at risk."

Adolf Hitler covered his "projection of power and dominance" and his invasion of Poland with the same blatant lies that Washington and Israel use to cover their aggressions. Hitler claimed that Polish forces had crossed the frontier and attacked Germany. That is the excuse used by Israel and its puppets in the White House and Pentagon that blames Iran for Israel's attack on Syria. When Washington and Israel are shameless in their lies, why does Russia think they are "partners" with whom agreements can be reached?

Eric Zuesse notes that only Syria and Russia complain about Washington's illegal occupation of Syrian territory, an occupation that has no UN authorization and is a complete and total violation of international law, and Israel's continual attacks on Syria. Washington's continuing support for war against the legitimate government of Syria and support for Israeli and terrorist attacks on Syrian and Russian forces are undermining Russia's efforts to bring peace to the region. Zuesse also notes that Washington and its UK puppet block all UN action against Washington's illegality.

Zuesse is correct. But is the continuation of Washington's campaign against Syria and Russia largely the fault of Russia? Stephen Lendman makes a case that it is Russia's fault.

Why? It appears to be the case that the Russian government is so anxious for Western approval that it ends its successful military campaigns before the job is finished. It was Putin himself who declared "victory" in Syria and withdrew some of the Russian military before clearing all of Syria of foreign and jihadist occupation, thus leaving in place US beachheads for renewing the conflict.

It couldn't have taken more than two more weeks for Russia and Syria to liberate all of Syria from the US backed jihadists, but apparently Russia was afraid to annoy Washington that much and to risk contact with US personnel, even though Russia is in Syria legally under international law and the US is present illegally.

Again trusting to international law, the UN, and "our Western partners," Russia quit prematurely. As Lendman says, the complaints by Zakharova, Lavrov, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman, and Putin himself are based in absolute fact. But the question is, when will Russia learn, if ever, that facts and law make no difference whatsoever to Washington? Washington's interest is in its hegemony over the world and in Israel's hegemony in the Middle East.

Lendman makes the point that "As long as Russia maintains the myth of partnership with Washington instead of giving Washington a taste of its own medicine ... conflict will likely continue escalating."

Lendman might be correct, judging by the reported heavy Israeli attacks on Syria on February 10 after Syrian air defences damaged Israel's image of invincibility by shooting down one of Israel's US-supplied war planes that was attacking Syria and reports that the conflict might be escalating and involving Iran. RT reports that the Kremlin is worried that the de-escalation zones are threatened and that Putin got on the telephone with Netanyahu urging restraint.

All of my life US presidents have been urging restraint on Israel to no effect whatsoever. Putin's urges will have no more effect, unless Putin takes the card from Lendman's playbook and tells the war criminal Netanyahu who heads the illegal Israeli state, which is based on land stolen at bayonet point from Palestinians, that any more of this and Russia will take Israel out. Lendman thinks that no other way of talking to the crazed zionist state, or to Washington, will have any effect, and history seems to be on Lendman's side. See here and and here.

Either Russia is unsure of its power or Putin is prevented from using Russia's power by the treasonous Atlanticist Integrationists who constitute Washington's Fifth Column inside the Russian government and economy. It is a mystery why Putin tolerates a small handful of traitors who have minimal public support while the West and Israel become daily more aggressive against Russian national interests.

Putin sensibly avoids escalating a situation, but one gets the impression that there are constraints on Putin's ability to stand up to Washington. The Saker identifies the problem as the pro-Washington "Atlanticist Integrationists" who for personal career reasons, personal business reasons, and because they are supported by Washington-financed NGOs and media inside Russia, have sold out Russian sovereignty to globalism. Putin, apparently, is unwilling or unable to move aside those who serve as Washington's check on Russian nationalism, which prevents any real Russian victory.

If the "Atlanticist Integrationists" inside Putin's government are able to block more decisive responses, the question arises: how powerful, really, is Putin? Did Putin win Syria only to lose it to Washington and the Israelis? How can we imagine Putin, the head of a powerful state, on the telephone pleading with an Israeli war criminal who heads a tiny state? We know that Israel owns Washington, but does Israel own Russia also?

How many times did Putin announce victory in Syria, pull out, and then have to go back after Washington's forces had recuperated? Why does Putin refuse the reincorporation of the breakaway Russian provinces in Ukraine? He allowed Crimea back in because of the Russian naval base, but he has refused the Russian provinces of Donetsk and Luhansk. Consequently, the Russian people in these provinces continue to be subject to attack, and Washington has now armed its Ukrainian nazi state with weapons to reconquer the breakaway republics.

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"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Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.



history

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The past is present, in people's minds, and it determines a lot of our present and of our future. Those who doubt it might have missed the following news in the past few weeks: members of the Nama and Herero communities of Namibia, whose parents suffered a genocide at the hands of the German colonial power (1904-1907) have filed a lawsuit in the US against Germany; France's supreme court has overturned a law barring non-French citizens from claiming reparations for damages and loss suffered in the Algerian independence war (1956-1962); in the US, a Smithsonian exhibition takes on Indian-related stereotypes as many Native American voices complain about enduring prejudice and president Trump's lack of understanding. I could add many examples drawn from individual conversations in the framework of my time with Initiatives of Change a NGO specializing in reestablishing trust across many of the world's divides: our sometimes limited knowledge and understanding of the past determines our identity, our perception of individual and collective threats and many of our attitudes.

In this context a most worrying trend is on the rise. It is well illustrated by the bill wich the Polish Government just had passed in Parliament which penalizes historical approaches of WWII it does not like. The Israeli Prime Minister and many of his cabinet ministers were vocal in their protests against what they saw as an attempt to deny historical facts about the Polish involvement in the Holocaust. In response, a group of Israeli MPs drew up draft legislation aimed at amending Israel's law on Holocaust denial to make it a crime punishable by jail to diminish or deny the role played by those who aided the Nazis in their persecution of Jews.

The increasing use of Law to deal with the past should be taken very seriously. In 2005 in France, a controversial law article specified that "the school programs recognize in particular the positive role of the French presence overseas, especially in North Africa (")". Then in 2011 the French parliament passed a law criminalizing the Armenian genocide's denial -- while the Turks have the opposite legislation. How can France and Turkey build a constructive relationship now that incompatible laws prevent them from making progress on some issues. What would happen worldwide if laws pitting groups against each other would become generalized?

The laws about the memory of the Jewish holocaust are specific as they are defending the internationally recognized historical truth, an international consensus that is widely supported including by key Muslim institutions such as the Muslim World League. Laws about unclear or disputed historical episodes are particularly regrettable, as they will prevent the international community from reaching any international consensus, and will eventually deprive the victims of the events of their right to know the truth.

In the same vein, there is distorted archeology. TheTurkish state is reported to slowly destroy its architectural Christian heritage (such as churches and cemeteries), paving the way for a denial that non-Turkish and non-Muslim cultures once existed on its territory, and the State of Israel is doing the same to parts of its heritage that are non-Jewish. The Taliban or Daech did that in a less subtle way in Afghanistan or in Niger, but it stemmed from the same urge to redefine History to suit a political agenda.

Such a trend makes you wonder whether international dialogue will still be possible in a few decades at least in a number of cases. On which basis will opposing parties be talking since a wholly different set of distorted or just fake facts will undergird their demands?

International institutions such as the United Nations cannot stay away from such issues, nor should the major diplomacies chose to ignore the risks attached to them.

In the framework of restorative justice, the United Nations has issued four rights for the victims of massacres or other mistreatments in conflicts: one of them, along with the right to justice, the right to reparation and the right to non-recurrence is the right to truth. It is the first, fundamental one. Should the right to truth not be made universal?

Truth on historical matters is established by historians relying on firsthand evidence contained in documents of all kind. International panels of historians relying on shared evidence should be working under the auspices of the United Nations to establish clear facts about alleged genocides, colonization and other international bones of contention. That would build as a reliable factual base from which to work for future reconciliations and international cooperation.

The European Union, whose main raison d'etre has been mutual understanding, reconciliation and peace, could do the same and try and produce a common fact-based view of its continent. Had the official history books not been at liberty to report distorted facts, would there have been such a quick and easy re-ignition of conflicts in post-Communist Balkans? It is perhaps not incidental that the only official common history book is Franco-German, produced by two states which have succeeded in creating a deep unity between them (unfortunately it has not really been used in schools, but the mere fact that its production was possible is a first step in the right direction.)

Going a little further, an international convention could enshrine the principles of truthfulness in historical matters and include a commitment to avoid "memorial laws" and rely on the international consensus for historical facts.

This idea will probably be found irritating by those who are actively manipulating History for their own purposes, which are unlikely to be peaceful. It would be tragic if it were found unpractical or unrealistic by those who care about peace in this world.

Antoine Jaulmes

Antoine Jaulmes is the President of Initiatives of Change Switzerland, a Swiss Foundation and NGO running a conference centre in Caux above Montreux delivering training and mediation since 1946, bringing together representatives of opposed communities, differing religious groups in order to foster trust, dialogue and peacebuilding.Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.

From Reader Supported News

Andy Borowitz, with his scalpel-like satire, nailed the dark dilemma gnawing away at the psyche of everyone on the left in his recent piece, "Former Hippies Put in Horrible Position of Rooting for F.B.I."

It isn't a "horrible position," but it is certainly one filled with contradictions and some significant risks. The FBI's history is an assemblage of good, bad and, yes, ugly.

While the FBI is quite capable of very professional conduct, the Bureau, its directors, and its agents have also proven equally willing to trample on every civil liberty and right ever invented. Often with lethal consequences.

In every era since its inception, the FBI has been embroiled in one form of epic abuse of power or another. From J. Edgar Hoover's reign of terror to James Comey's gift of the White House to Donald Trump, the FBI has been a veritable mayhem machine.

The proposition is now being floated by some that reforming or simply destroying the FBI is actually more important than confronting the mind-boggling criminality now unfolding in the Oval Office. This is a notion that beckons catastrophe. For reference, see people running through the streets of Hawaii fearing a North Korean nuclear missile strike.

Donald Trump and his entourage must be confronted with the greatest resolve, urgency, and immediacy.

Not only is Trump inviting nuclear war with North Korea, "his" ICE and DHS agents are conducting the largest ethnic cleansing on US soil since the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII. Not to mention the Trump administration's open warfare against the EPA on behalf of the most corrupt and greedy corporations in the world, the environment be damned.

But who cares about the Mexicans anyway? After all, it's not me, it's not my family, right? Of course we can be certain when they get done rounding up Hispanics they won't start rounding up Muslims or Jews or Catholics or gays. Clearly we live in a country where someone will say something before they come for us, right?

So why are Donald Trump and his enablers at war with federal law enforcement and specifically Special Counsel Robert Mueller? If Donald Trump were not the President of the United States, but just a guy with a criminal record as long as Interstate 10 and criminal entanglements that John Gotti would be proud of, then you might wonder if this isn't just another story of a crime kingpin counterattacking federal law enforcement as the walls close in.

But Trump does control the Oval Office, and he has ambitions befitting the office. Trump doesn't want to destroy the FBI, the CIA or the NSA -- he wants to convert them, for his own personal use. Trump actually believes that Putin has the right idea. He sees the total, personal control that Putin has over Russia, its economy, and its resources and asks, "Why not?"

So you can destroy federal law enforcement or you can have federal laws, but you can't do both. As demonstrably flawed as the FBI, CIA and NSA are, what Trump would make them might be irrevocably worse, by orders of magnitude.

Yes, federal law enforcement and the US intelligence apparatus desperately need reform. But this is not a job that should be entrusted to Donald Trump or his enablers. It is a job for the American people, enforcing their rights in a nation of laws. That's the only road from here to democracy.

Reader Supported News is the Publication of Origin for this work. Permission to republish is freely granted with credit and a link back to Reader Supported News.Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.

From Robert Reich Blog



Ronald Reagan, center, shown here shaking hands with a pre-politics Donald Trump, often rhapsodized about the 'magic of the market.' With them is first lady Nancy Reagan.

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Trump's promise that corporations will use his giant new tax cut to make new investments and raise workers' wages is proving to be about as truthful as his promise to release his tax returns.

The results are coming in, and guess what? Almost all the extra money is going into stock buybacks. Since the tax cut became law, buy-backs have surged to $88.6 billion. That's more than double the amount of buybacks in the same period last year, according to data provided by Birinyi Associates.

Compare this to the paltry $2.5 billion of employee bonuses corporations say they'll dispense in response to the tax law, and you see the bonuses for what they are -- a small fig leaf to disguise the big buybacks.

If anything, the current tumult in the stock market will fuel even more buybacks.

Stock buybacks are corporate purchases of their own shares of stock. Corporations do this to artificially prop up their share prices.

Buybacks are the corporate equivalent of steroids. They may make shareholders feel better than otherwise, but nothing really changes.

Money spent on buybacks isn't reinvested in new equipment, research, or factories. Buybacks don't add jobs or raise wages. They don't increase productivity. They don't grow the American economy.

Yet CEOs love buybacks because most CEO pay is now in shares of stock and stock options rather than cash. So when share prices go up, executives reap a bonanza.

At the same time, the value of CEO pay from previous years also rises, in what amounts to a retroactive (and off the books) pay increase -- on top of their already humongous compensation packages.

Big investors also love buybacks because they increase the value of their stock portfolios. Now that the richest 10 percent of Americans own 84 percent of all shares of stock (up from 77 percent at the turn of the century), this means even more wealth at the top.

Buybacks used to be illegal. The Securities and Exchange considered them unlawful means of manipulating stock prices, in violation of the Securities Acts of 1933 and 1934.

In those days, the typical corporation put about half its profits into research and development, plant and equipment, worker retraining, additional jobs, and higher wages.

But under Ronald Reagan, who rhapsodized about the "magic of the market," the SEC legalized buybacks.

After that, buybacks took off. Just in the past decade, 94 percent of corporate profits have been devoted to buybacks and dividends, according to researchers at the Academic-Industry Research Network.

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By Dartagnan

The past few weeks have seen some Democrats at certain levels within the Party urging a more conciliatory tone towards Trump and his extremist "policies," with an eye towards the midterm elections in November. From Chuck Schumer's strategic retreat on the budget (which I happen to agree with) to editorials by the likes of Frank Bruni of The New York Times, who partnered with longtime -- many would say "so-called" -- Democratic adviser Joe Trippi to pen this expression of heartfelt "concern," the Democratic establishment has begun to introduce cracks within the Resistance against this monstrous Thing that afflicts us from the Oval Office:

"In the highest circles of Democratic party politics, resistance is waning. 'This is normal enough,' many key Democrats seem to be saying. When Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote in advance of Trump's State of the Union several weeks ago, he focused on finding ways to 'work with' the president, such as infrastructure. "Bipartisan rhetoric is nothing new from politicians, but Democrats appear to be slipping towards making substantive policy concessions to Trump. Particularly in the Senate, Democrats have, bit by bit, begun acceding to Trumpian demands. *** "As it stands, Democrats in both houses appear to be on the brink of dropping demands to protect the 'Dreamers,' undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children (protections that are supported by 74 percent of Americans). 'He's not asking for the kind of money that would build a wall sea to shining sea,' reasoned Missouri's Claire McCaskill. 'He's asking for the kind of money that can say he built a wall.'"

The root of the Resistance is the sense of outrage we all feel, and that outrage, for most of us, is manifested in a continual, simmering anger. That anger, in turn, fuels our resolve.

Will Stancil, writing for the Atlantic, recognizes that preserving one's fury day in and day out at what a minority of the electorate inflicted on us last November is exhausting. We all are subject to outrage fatigue -- it would be strange if we weren't. The human mind isn't used to constantly responding to outrage, nor are we in this country at all accustomed to putting up with the steady, unending stream of obscene and malevolent policies this Administration and its Republican enablers have adopted.

We aren't used to loathing the nearly half of Americans who bothered to vote at all who opted, out of blithe ignorance, spite and selfishness, to vote for burning down every decent thing the country stood for during our lifetimes. That's something new, and the mind naturally adjusts to cope with it. When people say they are feeling "numb" by all of Trump's perfidious behavior what they're experiencing is actually a kind of acclimation to a gross, continuing insult to our minds and bodies.

But if we do not preserve our anger, if we regard our rage as anything less than a precious stone to be guarded at all costs, we risk falling into the same trap that citizens of autocracies and totalitarian societies have fallen into for ages -- that of normalizing and accommodating the tyrant by acquiescing, however slowly, through our words and actions, to the notion that he is somehow legitimate. As Stancil writes, this is an all-too familiar phenomenon:

"Institutions abhor abnormality; even in politics, parties would often rather fight along familiar lines. The passage of time makes Trump's America seem less strange. Politicos are wary of challenging a president presiding over a thriving economy. And on some level, Trump benefits from the basic dynamic that sustains any cult: His version of reality is so absurd that the only way to peacefully coexist with it is to accept his behavior as normal."

But the Criminal occupying the Oval Office is not normal. Someone who hides behind didactic Tweets because he can't face a real press conference is not normal.

The Criminal in the Oval Office never did an hour of public service in his life and is wholly, completely and totally unfit for the office. Everything he has done up to this point demonstrates a malignant hatred for and intent to destroy the foundations and institutions upon this country was built. He is in a very literal sense a form of cancer on the Republic.

Stancil believes that the extraordinary successes of a unified, determined, Resistance -- such as blocking the dismantling of the Affordable Care Act, thwarting many of Trump's initiatives in the Courts, and our recent string of electoral victories in deeply red parts of the country, carry with them the risk of breeding complacency. Particularly in light of premature prognostications of Democratic success in the Midterm elections, an atmosphere of self-satisfaction seems to be on the rise among many in the media and the Democratic establishment.

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From RT

President Donald Trump's plan to stage a mega military parade in the American capital provoked a broad swath of opposition, from conservatives and liberals alike.

Part of the objection, however, seems to stem from an unspoken embarrassment -- that such a military display shatters American democratic pretensions, at home and around the world.

Surprisingly for a nation that repeatedly boasts about having the most powerful military force on the planet -- and, indeed, ever in the whole of recorded history -- there was scant enthusiasm this week for Trump's reported proposal for a full-scale military parade to be held later this year along Washington DC's Pennsylvania Avenue.

Planning details are still in the works for the proposed event, which is only being sketchily discussed at this time, and may not even materialize.

Trump is said to have been wowed by the military procession he attended in Paris last July on France's annual Bastille Day. Ever since then the American president has been prodding his aides to stage a similar martial spectacle in the US.

America's Independence Day on July 4 or Veterans Day on November 11 have been suggested as possible dates to hold the event, which would see columns of troops and weapons filing down the iconic avenue stretching from the Congressional government building on Capitol Hill and the president's White House residence.

The New York Times reported with a tone of misgiving: "Tanks, jets and other killing machines painted olive-drab and tan could be rolling the routes of the nation's capital later this year for a peacetime parade inspired by President Trump."

But, it added: "Few lawmakers -- if any -- said they loved the idea of Mr Trump's parade. Some shrugged it off. Others called it undemocratic. Many lamented the use of the military's time and money."

Politico reported: "Trump's military parade draws bipartisan rebuke." It said lawmakers on both sides of the aisle decried such an event as "a break with democratic traditions."

Senior Democrat Representative Adam Smith is quoted as saying: "A military parade of this kind would also be a departure from the values of our constitutional democracy. A military parade like this -- one that is unduly focused on a single person -- is what authoritarian regimes do, not democracies."

Other commentators focused their objections on what they said was such an event pandering to Trump's notoriously outsized ego.

CNN pundit Chris Cillizza said: "Of course Trump wants a big shiny parade... Bigger is always better in Trump's world. And might usually makes right. He with the biggest toys wins."

A Washington Post commentary said that Trump's penchant for pomp and grandiose ceremony makes him a sucker for "the sort of martial display these days more associated with single-party states and irredentist autocrats."

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who is well connected to the military establishment and often espouses hawkish militarist foreign policy, seemed uncharacteristically coy about the parade idea. He said: "I'm not looking for a Soviet-style hardware display. That's not who we are. It's kind of cheesy. I think it shows weakness, quite frankly."

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Ahed Tamimi speaking at the The Role of Women in the Palestinian Popular Struggle Conference

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Ahed Tamimi spoke with grace and eloquence at a 2017 conference on the role of women in the Palestinian struggle. She noted, "we're not fighting against the Jews, we are fighting Zionism...Jewish people are also victims of Zionism... please, supporters, show your solidarity...it's incumbent on everyone in the world to find the solution."

The European Parliament in Brussels hosted a conference on the role of women in the Palestinian popular struggle on Sept 26, 2017. Ahed Tamimi, who was 16 at the time, was one of the featured speakers.



The Role of Women in the Palestinian Popular Struggle Conference

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In a Newsweek oped, I Watched Ahed Tamimi Grow Up And I Know Why She Defended Her Home, Mariam Barghouti writes, "Ahed, now 16, was once the shy girl that barely whispered whenever she was asked questions. Her voice was sweet and it lent itself to a vulnerability that makes you tread carefully and with kindness...(she was) barely nine when protests began...The little girl with the shy voice realized at a young age that she could not afford to be quiet, that whispers are a luxury afforded (to) those that do not have to defend their homes from daily raids, from land annexation, or incarceration."

Ahed's mother, Nariman, was scheduled to be at this conference with her, but had to cancel when Ahed's brother was shot the day before.

Palestinian women are) suffering day after day after day. We need to overcome our own fears because we really are in an extremely difficult situation...believe me, when I say the situation is almost unimaginable...Can you really understand everything that's going on in Palestine? It's difficult when you're so far away, to understand the day-to-day problems that we face.

She appropriately placed some responsibility at the feet of the world community:

I've come here to try and explain to you what the situation is, and to remind you of the situation that we live in... the reason is, you have a responsibility (to) Palestinian people. We're paying the price for the Holocaust, which took place in Europe, and that's having a negative repercussions in our lives. I think that you have a responsibility to not just help us, but also to show solidarity and to demand with all authorities that the Palestinian struggle should be seen as a humanitarian struggle. ...it's incumbent on everyone in the world to find the solution.



The Role of Women in the Palestinian Popular Struggle Conference

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And she clarified what the Palestinians are resisting, noting they are not resisting Jews:

The struggle in Israel and Palestine is not just a struggle between two peoples. In the media we always see comments which say that we don't respect the Jews; we don't respect the Jewish state... But we're not fighting against the Jews, we are fighting Zionism.

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North Korean Cheerleaders

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[ This article was revised and expanded on February 12, 2018 ]

Despite all efforts of the paranoid and unpredictable US regime, the Koreans are making love not war during the 2018 Winter Olympics. The US regime is furious and pulling out all the hate stops to tarnish North Korea, and try and put South Korea back on the US colonial leash. While not exactly an anti-colonial attack dog, South Korea's democratically elected peace-president Moon Jae-in is showing signs that he is not an America poodle either.

Every four years the US regime uses the Olympics as a political weapons to rain chaos and hate. Historically the Olympics are for bringing the world's best athletes together in celebration of world unity, human dignity, fraternity among all nations and the possibilities that exist when nations come together in peace.

Happiness, unity and peace are a threat to the paranoid US regime, which is dedicated to war, death, and chaos. Like a drone hurling bombs at wedding parties and funerals, the unpredictable US regime tries to sabotage anything good and decent that might come from the Olympics. Such a large gathering of world leaders, athletes and the people sets off the military-industrial-complex's algorithm of a high profile target in need of a signature strike.



North Korean Cheerleaders

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As Obama said , "I have two words for you, Predator Drone; you won't even see it coming". It worked for Obama during the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. From the time of the announcement in July of 2007, for almost eight years until 2014, Russia was preparing for the celebration of its emergence like a phoenix from the ashes of chaos sown by US infiltrators of neoliberalism, looting of the state's enterprises, and imposing killer-austerity on Russian citizens during the decade of the 1990's.

The US economic advisors to Russia's drunken president Boris Yeltsin led Russia down a yellow brick road they said would lead to a golden transformation from communism to Western style capitalism. When the neoliberal transformation turned into a train wreck the US Nobel Prize winning economists from the Chicago School of Economics said it was just a temporary hard landing. The Russians had had enough of US-style voodoo economics and elected Vladimir Putin as their leader. Putin told the Chicago Boyz thank you very much, showed the esteemed economic shamans to the exit door and kicked them out. The US would never forgive Putin and they would go on to do everything they could to shun, vilify and regime-change him.

During the years while Vladimir Putin was engineering a recovery of Russia's economy, the US regime was spending $5 billion plotting a coup d'etat in Ukraine. The putsch was timed for when Russia would be distracted with joy and celebrating the Sochi Olympics. To prepare the US public for a resumption of a US-led Cold War the international cartel of Western propaganda organs, led by the New York Times and the Guardian, began laying the groundwork of anti-Russian propaganda. The propagandists led a vilification project that Vladimir Putin is a thug, homophobic, kills journalists, invaded Georgia, and is an evil dictator. Later they would accuse him of invading Ukraine. Anti-Russian propaganda is designed to turn the truth upside down.

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In response to an Alternet and OpEdNews article by Steven Rosenfeld entitled, Sorry, Russia Is Not the Biggest Threat to Our Elections -- Facebook and YouTube Are

I generally agree with this author, most of his journalistic premises, and the refreshing alternative stances from which he writes. However, I have to take a vehement exception to this one, based on my own extensive personal experience.

To start, I don't comprehend how YouTube could even begin to be a problem, except for the fact that if someone did put up patently mendacious BS, there appears to be no mechanism at YouTube to self-correct or to deny further presence for the video in question. I think we are all on the same planet when it comes to YouTube.

Regarding Facebook, I am integrally involved politically with this social medium. I am a member of 1200 groups. I am the administrator of 7 of them and creator of one important one, Bernie Sanders: Advice and Strategies to Win in 2020. We take this very seriously and probably devote too much time to such concerns. I do see an enormous and fundamental flaw with most of the people who explore Facebook, and that is simply their naive adolescent modus opoerandi that clicking "Like" is somehow equivalent to voting for a candidate.

Facebook is and has always been a welcome tool for those who have something to say and who want lots of people to read it. Yes, unfortunately, in the 2016 elections, there was a lot of awful Russian-originated pure journalistic junk, most of which was screamingly obvious.

One day, weary of deleting two or three per day phony news items on my Facebook group pages, I felt that I should step up to the plate, so I got rid of about 150 Serbians, Macedonians, Ukrainians, and Russians who were posting very low level and obvious phony news stories; I always wondered why are these people wanting to get involved in an American political campaign in the first place?

These stooges always prefaced their post with something like "Breaking News," but it was always terribly obvious that this was a form of political "click-bait" which clearly originated in some boiler room (or outlier?) from the basement at KGB/GRU headquarters and distributed with hope that there were a few stupid enough Americans to fall for this BS and to vote accordingly.

However, even after they were removed from my main group, that left lots of Americans, including the Hillary Trolls who continually did all sorts of mean and nasty things, but the almost Buddhist tolerance of most of the Bernie supporters remained very congenial.

There is still very strong evidence that Clinton supporters caused the New York State primary election purges of 1/3 of a million voters, all of which has been almost totally ignored by the relevant authorities. Clearly, this was the most egregious of the election frauds for 2016. You will read much more of the evidence here at OpEdNews than in all of the New York City dailies put together. I almost believe that they were ORDERED to stay "asleep at the wheel" on this entire issue.

In his referenced article, Mr. Rosenfeld refers to "conspiracy theories pedaled by sloppy American journalists." There might be a few of those floating around, largely unpaid and not really very influential at all, but there are a million times as many American paranoiacs that create and then pump up bizarre conspiracy theories, which anyone with the most rudimentary personal experience in Facebook groups has seen over and over.

In fact, there are entire groups with even five or ten thousand members, deeply devoted to all sorts of deranged theories.

Incidentally, I repeatedly wrote to Facebook Executives, and I do mean the very top brass there, that there was no end to fraudulent "news" posts, both Russian and some desperate Clintonistas, but these communications, like almost all others to Facebook executives, were all routinely ignored. I think the Senate Committee hearings a few months ago finally got Facebook's executives' attention.

for example: Facebook will hire 1,000 and make ads visible to fight election interference

click here

Maybe the growing pains and the ensuing challenge of coordinating communications between 2 billion Facebook users is really too much to do effectively for any corporate structure, let alone to do carefully.

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From Alternet

Activists are suspicious of a sleek new group's intentions.



Healthcare Costs

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There is a pronounced liberal eagerness to embrace noble-sounding rhetoric upon first hearing. It arises from fine qualities, including idealism and a fundamental belief in human goodness. This impulse is beautiful. It is tender. And it can sometimes lead people astray.

Consider the United States of Care, a new organization that has been warmly received by some progressives. USC is led by former Obama health official Andy Slavitt. Slavitt is a former Goldman Sachs investment banker and McKinsey consultant. The most prominent Republican face in the organization is former senator Bill Frist, a physician who became wealthy as an HMO executive. The group also includes health insurance executives and former health officials from both parties.

Slavitt has reportedly created an investment fund (more here) that hopes to make money from "low-income, high need populations" -- that is, people who depend on the government for their health care. That's a pretty fundamental conflict of interest.

The group still might be worthy of support, if it's well designed and has the public's best interests at heart. And the United States of Care agenda certainly sounds good, which is why some liberal luminaries in Hollywood and in politics promptly gave it their social-media seal of approval. What's not to like about a program that, in the words of a Slavitt op-ed, is "founded on the premise that no American should have to go without the care they need"?

Unfortunately, many unanswered questions remain, and what we have seen so far is worrisome.

A Matter of Principles

The group insists that it is steering clear of specific policy proposals so that it can build bipartisan consensus based on three core principles. A careful parsing of those principles raises some serious concerns.

Those principles are:

"All Americans should have access to a regular source of care for themselves and their families."

Why a "regular" source of care? Why not say that everyone should have access to "quality care, regardless of financial circumstances"? Or why not use the centrist rhetoric of previous years and promise "universal coverage"?

"No one should face financial devastation due to illness or injury."

This even avoids that standard-issue centrist word, "affordable." The word "devastation" suggests a very low level of financial protection, at a time when increasing numbers of Americans report putting off needed medical care because of the cost.

So-called catastrophic insurance plans would arguably fit this criterion, and they are disastrous for working families. Even Donald Trump's health insurance proposal, flimsy as it was, could conceivably fit the bill.

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This piece was reprinted by OpEdNews with permission or license. It may not be reproduced in any form without permission or license from the source.

Mainstream media messaging dictates much of what we think, hear, feel, say, and do. It creates an engineered framework which excludes what the "Other", those living in Imperial prey nations, think, hear, feel, say, and do. MSM demonizes them, and turns them into stock characters, imperial projections, as it obliterates their humanity, and our common humanity.

Mahmoud Altaweel, like all Syrians, defies this weaponized dehumanization. He lives in the northern part of Qunaitara, Golan, in a village called Haddar. He teaches English to teens and to Red Crescent Society workers, -- he had never heard of the White Helmets until Vanessa Beeley exposed them -- and he told me via private Facebook messaging that he is "keen to expose terrorists and their supporters."

Our conversation occurred after he wrote this about a video taken in Idlib, Syria:

"Terrorists prosecute people by name of Allah. Humiliation and tyranny. This is the moderate opposition The WEST supports. Enjoy them US & EU they are yours. As Syrians we don't want them"

Apparently, two men are being whipped because they violated Sharia by agreeing that a divorced woman could re-marry.

Altaweel explains that most Syrians reject the Wahhabism and extremist interpretations of Sharia Law that the NATO terrorists impose on occupied areas of Syria.

He says al Nusra and FSA terrorists attacked Haddar, and took control of some bordering villages. Haddar Self -Defence Groups, supported by the Syrian Arab Army and the Syrian government "logistically, morally and technically" successfully repelled the invaders.

"Backed by Israel, they started attacking us (not breaking into the village) but by means of firing mortars, snipering people and farmers," explains Altaweel, "They attacked us over many times. In defying our village not to be held by terrorists, 130 young people died. Ten or more houses completely shelled and smashed to the ground."

When the SAA attacks terrorists, explains Altaweel, Israel attacks SAA positions "severely". He adds that Israel also supplies terrorists with "medical aids, ammunition, reconnaissance, food stuff and financial supply".

Altaweel says that "millions love and respect" President Assad and his wife, and they see Russians as brothers, but at the same time Syrians are sometimes critical of Russia. He wonders "Why silence about American and Israeli violations?"

Altaweel's voice, and the voices of millions living in the Eastern Mediterranean, ancient seed-grounds of civilization and religion, are all but disappeared by Western media, but these are the voices of Truth, Peace, and Justice.

Order Mark Taliano's Book "Voices from Syria" directly from Global Research.

Taliano talks and listens to the people of Syria. He reveals the courage and resilience of a Nation and its people in their day to day lives, after more than six years of US-NATO sponsored terrorism and three years of US "peacemaking" airstrikes.

The original source of this article is Global Research

Copyright Mark Taliano, Global Research, 2018Would you like to know how many people have read this article? Or how reputable the author is? Simply sign up for a Advocate premium membership and you'll automatically see this data on every article. Plus a lot more, too.



Syria

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A short while ago, the Syrian National Dialogue Congress was finished in Russia's Sochi. The innovative format of the negotiations has become unique and unprecedented among all the sectors of the Syrian society. In the conflict's history, no one has been able to gather the representatives of the official Syrian government, members of the ruling party, tribal elders, various social movements, unions and religious denominations, and even members of the internal and external opposition.



Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the absence of some other radically minded representatives of the opposition didn't affect the decision-making process in any way. Instead of using the new opportunity to find touch points, the foreign-sponsored opposition ignored the negotiations, thereby confirming its political inferiority.



Many participants of the Congress are sure that the voice of the Syrian people has been heard for the first time in a while in Sochi. The final statement confirms this statement.



"There are some countries that seek the escalation of the Syrian conflict. We need peace for Syria. Therefore, there are so many influential Syrians in Sochi. Here with the help of Russians and their President we will be able to make significant process. They are the only one who is actually interested in the restoration of peace," a delegate from the Trade Unions and Associations group Majed Harmaz said.



At the same time, not everyone was satisfied with the results of the Congress. Thus, the head of the Syrian Negotiations Commission (SNC) Nasser Al-Hariri said that the process allegedly would undermine the UN's efforts aimed at cessation of hostilities and establishing peace. However, he didn't argue his words.



It should be mentioned that finding common ground in the Syrian society is an absolutely new format, and the last Congress really can give a new impetus to the stalling Geneva talks. The final decision on the establishment of a constitutional commission can't be unnoticed or ignored, and will be considered at the UN.



Consequently, oppositionists boycotted the Syrian Nation Dialogue Congress in Sochi will still have to discuss its results in Geneva. That is, they will still have to include their representatives in the emerging membership of the constitutional commission, and the process will make significant progress. However, the awareness of the need to participate in the process of creating a new Basic Law of the country would require a lot of time on the part of the opposition and won't happen immediately.



In fact, the process of the creation of a new constitution by Syria has been launched due to the efforts of the guarantor countries in Astana. In addition, the Syrian society's position was underlined, such as territorial integrity, sovereignty, ensuring the rights of all ethnic and religious groups.



Therefore, it can be stated with certainty that the Congress in Sochi has provided a serious impulse to the process of peaceful settlement in Syria. This means that all the decisions that have been taken there are legitimate and in conformity with Council resolution 2254.



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From Libertarian Institute

Of course Donald Trump wants a military parade. I'd be surprised if he didn't. It's just what an insecure narcissist would want. A parade would be the national equivalent of his strutting around like a peacock, dying to turn heads. Even a politician can see that: "I think confidence is silent and insecurity is loud," Louisiana Republican Sen. John Kennedy said. "America is the most powerful country in all of human history; you don't need to show it off."

But harbor no doubts: Trump's parade will be the biggest, best, and most-watched military parade in history -- guaranteed. And I don't mean just American history.

Let's not forget that Trump declared himself the most "militaristic" candidate in the large Republican primary field. That was no small boast, considering that field included Lindsey Graham, Ted Cruz, and Marco Rubio. Trump couldn't express his awe of the military, the marvelously murderous weaponry, and the valiant veterans often or heartily enough. Nothing animated him more.

Trump may have teased the voters with intimations of military retrenchment and nonintervention (like his two predecessors), but some of us knew he was not to be taken seriously. It was a pose, pure and simple. His opponents were parroting the establishment war-party line (with the occasional exception from Rand Paul), so Trump had to break from the pack. Every president had been an idiot, he said, getting us into all those stupid wars (each of which he favored before the fact) and spending all that money, which could have been spent here in America. He didn't mean it. He's a bullshitter -- is there anyone left who does not know that?

You want evidence? Look at his first year in office. He's hiked (with Congress's enthusiastic help) the military -- not "defense" -- budget by an amount that exceeds Russia's entire military budget: $81 billion versus $70 billion. He's blurred the line between civilian and military by putting generals in key civilian positions. He's shown an eerie fondness for tactical as well as strategic nuclear weapons. He has put troops -- under NATO's banner! -- on Russia's border. (Some Putin puppet he turned out to be.) He's arming the government of Ukraine. His formal national-security strategy targets Russia and China. He has provoked Iran and North Korea. He's doubled down everywhere his two immediate predecessors became embroiled militarily, including Syria, where his imperial stormtroopers are not welcome by the government of Syria. ISIS may be kaput, but Trump's people say we'll be hanging around to get rid of President Assad. So much for Trump's repeated condemnation of regime change and his paeans to national sovereignty before the UN. They mean bupkis. What a con man he is. How did any libertarian fall for the guy?

So about that parade: I don't know how the public will receive it. Of course the Trumpsters will love it, but so might many others who have zero stomach for the abominable one. The safest thing to do in America today is to express reverence for the military and thank the troops for their "service." But what they do is no service to regular people -- it's downright dangerous actually -- though it's important service to the custodians of the empire, Trump included. Oddly, demanding the troops be taken out of harm's way is more often than not branded unsupportive and even disloyal.

At any rate, the sight of costumed -- forgive me -- uniformed men and women in serried ranks, accompanied by missiles, tanks, and artillery, proceeding down Pennsylvania Avenue would likely send chills down the spine of many an American.

But perhaps things are not as bleak as I suspected. Politico reports that "members of Congress from both parties joined retired military leaders and veterans in heaping scorn Wednesday on President Donald Trump's push to parade soldiers and weaponry down the streets of the nation's capital -- calling it a waste of money that would break with democratic traditions."

Politico also quoted Paul Rieckhoff, CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, which the publication calls "the largest group of post-Sept. 11 veterans," saying: "This is definitely not a popular idea [with his members]. It's overwhelmingly unpopular. Folks from all political backgrounds don't think it is a good use of resources." Rieckhoff expressed concern with "anything that politicizes the military."

Will that deter Trump, the self-proclaimed champion (but cynical user) of veterans? Not bloody likely. Politico adds, "[Defense Secretary James] Mattis told a White House news briefing that preparations for a celebration are underway."

Here's the thing: a military parade that's not even linked to the end of a war strikes me as deeply un-American. I say this despite my revisionist view of American history, for as the classical-liberal historian Arthur A. Ekirch Jr. wrote in The Civilian and the Military: A History of the American Antimilitarist Tradition (1956), "The tradition of antimilitarism has been an important factor in the shaping of some two hundred years of American history. This tradition, with its emphasis upon civilian against military authority, is accepted as an essential element of American freedom and democracy. Though involved in numerous wars, the United States has avoided becoming a militaristic nation [remember, this was written in 1956.], and the American people, though hardly pacifists, have been staunch opponents of militarism." Ekirch is supported by the fact that the last three presidential winners called for a more "humble" (to use George W. Bush's word) foreign policy, although they did not deliver.

After the Revolution the standing army was an object of popular suspicion, and it engendered opposition in Confederation Congress. When the Society of Cincinnati was organized to honor the revolution's officers, the opposition was swift and widespread. "Almost at once," Ekirch wrote, "the Society was criticized as an attempt to establish the former Revolutionary officers as a hereditary aristocracy, and the volume of protest soon reached impressive proportions." Some Americans feared its members were planning a coup, and the immensely popular George Washington had to distance himself from the Society.

Unfortunately, the Constitution of 1789 did not forbid a standing army, and one was assembled. (Reluctance to be in the militia led some men to support a professional army.) "Three members of the Convention who refused to sign the final draft of the Constitution, Edmund Randolph, George Mason, and Elbridge Gerry, gave as one of their reasons its failure to set any limitation on a standing army." The lack of more specific limitations, such as might be included in a bill of rights, plus the failure to prohibit a standing army in time of peace, were viewed as the two chief defects of the Constitution from the antimilitarist point of view," Ekirch wrote.

James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay, authors of The Federalist Papers, sought to allay fears that the Constitution would empower a menacing military establishment, Ekirch noted. But "after the Constitution was adopted, its staunchest supporters readily forgot the interpretation of the document that they had offered in the heat of the struggle for ratification. While the proponents of a strong centralized government lost no time in presenting to Congress their plans for a regular military establishment, the anti-Federalist opponents of the Constitution united to prevent the creation of a standing army." The militarists did not get everything they wanted, but they got enough, and things grew from there with only occasional setbacks.

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I remember when I first began to question the established version of Black history as a young teen.

It was just one of those odd tidbits of information that you pick up along the way and usually it doesn't go any further. This wasn't the case with me in this instance because I found it forced me to completely rethink everything I have ever been "taught" about black or African history.

To American schoolchildren, even in the 21st century, black history begins and ends with slavery. It graduates from this starting point, building and progressing onward to the grand finale of black history-MLK and the Civil Rights movement.

As a kid learning all this back in the nineteen seventies much of it was more current events, because Martin Luther King had only been murdered just a few years back and LBJ signed the Civil Rights Act within my own scope of memory.

The bit of seemingly irrelevant piece of information I stumbled upon completely challenged absolutely everything I had ever learned about black history.

I discovered that the medical procedure of a caesarian section originated in Africa.

The practice was observed in 1887 performed by an African in Uganda during British colonialism (another sordid part of African history kept from schoolchildren.) The procedure was so advanced, however, that it wasn't even possible in the west until about forty years later.

As even a fourteen-year-old kid at Riverside Junior High I was astounded and baffled by this fact. We were taught that Africa was this primitive wasteland devoid of all greater thought and intellect until those nice British came along to "civilize" them.

Africans were pigmies, cannibals and those really tall dudes standing there on one leg with a pole all day.

They were disorganized, helpless and primitive with no further culture than a goat skin drum and as a result, were easy pickings for the evil slave traders who came along to snatch them all up and haul their asses to America.

Along with slavery white people educated and civilized black people and finally, good old, white Abe Lincoln came along to free them, and at which point it all begins. To American schoolchildren, Harriet Tubman is the beginning of black history as we know it.

Given this, the thought of Africans performing a complicated surgical procedure at least a full century before the more civilized west completely blew my young mind. A C-section is a difficult and precise surgical procedure. Two lives literally depend on the skill and experience of a highly trained professional.

The Africans surely didn't just have some witchdoctor slice a woman's stomach open with a sharp rock and then hoped for the best.

This is advanced science.

I thought to myself that this is contrary to everything I had ever learned about black or African history. If these people were so advanced as to master a C-section, what other sciences did they practice long before the west that I wasn't being told?

As the history teacher, Mr. Rosenberg droned on and on only about the American black's slave experience, I found myself more curious about the advanced sciences of ancient Africa and their real role in human progress.

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From Smirking Chimp

This is advice for the Democrats. Democrats never take my advice. So why do I keep giving it to them?

These "what Democrats ought to do" columns aren't really for the Democratic Party leadership. They're for you, dear left-of-center reader. I'm explaining what the Dems should be doing and comparing it to what they're actually doing. That gap between what makes sense and what is going on, I hope you'll conclude, is so big that we should declare the Democratic Party dead and gone. Giving up on the Dems is important.

The Left will never roll up its sleeves and start building a genuine alternative to the current system until it stops trying, somehow, to take over or sway the Distracticats.

This week, I'd like to showcase the stunning ineptitude of the Democrats' communications strategy.

There are many examples to choose from, but lately I have been marveling at Democratic leaders' wimpiness in the face of the president's Twitter-trolling.

On November 28, 2017, Trump tweeted: "Meeting with 'Chuck and Nancy' today about keeping government open and working. Problem is they want illegal immigrants flooding into our Country unchecked, are weak on Crime and want to substantially RAISE Taxes. I don't see a deal!"

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi canceled their scheduled meeting with Trump. "Given that the President doesn't see a deal between Democrats and the White House, we believe the best path forward is to continue negotiating with our Republican counterparts in Congress instead," Pelosi and Schumer said in a joint statement. "Rather than going to the White House for a show meeting that won't result in an agreement, we've asked (Senate Majority Leader Mitch) McConnell and (House Speaker Paul) Ryan to meet this afternoon."

Morons!

Schumer and Pelosi were right to cancel -- but not because of Trump's stated pessimism about arriving at an agreement. They should have canceled because Trump insulted them. "Chuck and Nancy"? Really?

As Frederick Douglass said, people naturally have contempt for a person who won't stand up for himself. Schumer and Pelosi should have fought back. They should have refused to let Trump big-dog them.

They could have taken the high road: "Until the President learns to address us politely, like an adult, using our proper titles and names -- Senator Schumer, Representative Pelosi, Leader Schumer, Leader Pelosi -- we Democrats will have no communications with him whatsoever."

Or they could have gone the Ted Rall route: "We're sorry, silly fat Orange Donald, that your mother didn't raise you properly. Until you delete your Twitter account, apologize on TV and sign a contract agreeing to never darken social media again -- oh, and no p*ssy grabbing either -- you can go f--- yourself.

Either way, they'd have to mean it. That would mean no more meetings, no more tolerating the president's wanton rudeness. Total obstruction.

I know. It ain't gonna happen. Democratic leaders obviously believe that they risk debasing themselves if they lower themselves to Trump's rhetorical level. What they don't get is that Trump is a bully. The only way to deal with a bully is with shock-and-awe brutality.

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Availability: - It is available at all leading retail outlets Pan India.







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Cornitos is the largest brand in the Nacho Crisps category in India. Cornitos Brand Portfolio includes Nacho Crisps, Taco Shells, Chunky Salsa Dips, Roasted Premium Nuts - Cashews & Almonds, Coated Green Peas and Pickles - Jalapeno Peppers & Gherkins. Cornitos has an extensive distribution network across Pan India. Complete Range of Products available in Retail, E-Retail and Modern Trade stores. Institutional sales across through Airlines, Horeca, Multiplexes and Cafes. Cornitos products are exported globally, to the USA, Australia, China, Singapore, UAE and South East Asia.



About Greendot Health Foods



Greendot Health Foods Pvt Ltd was the first company to launch Nacho Crisps in Indian snacks. The production facility at Roorkee, Haridwar district, Uttarakhand, is equipped with state-of-the-art processing machinery and is manned by a team committed to quality. GHFL is ISO-22000, HACCP and Halal certified company. It also has registrations from FSSAI and US FDA.



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The primary factor which is sustaining growth of the global market for sesame oil, is its utilization in various cuisines, Ayurveda, variety of massage oils, and beauty products. Owing to its nutritional value, adoption of sesame oil has gained an uptick among consumers, and power packed sesame oil has been gaining higher traction on the back of its benefits to human health. This report, published by Fact.MR, provides in-depth analysis of the global sesame oil market for the forecast period 2017-2022, and offers key insights about future market direction.Request For Sample Report-ScopeThe scope of Fact.MRs report is to analyze the global sesame oil market for the forecast period 2017-2022 and provide readers an unbiased and accurate analysis. Sesame oil manufacturers, stakeholders, and suppliers in the global food & beverage sector can benefit from the analysis offered in this report. This report offers a comprehensive analysis, which can be of interest to leading trade magazines and journals pertaining to sesame oil.In order to offer readers with up-to-date information about the latest advancements in the global sesame oil market, the report provides updates about market opportunities, which can benefit leading manufacturers of sesame oil. With continuous evolution of the food & beverage sector, keeping a record of latest developments and trends is fundamental for sesame oil manufacturers to formulate key business strategies. Detailed insights about raw material sourcing, supply chain, pricing analysis, list of distributors, and cost structure are provided in this section.In order to provide detailed insights, and by considering wide scope of the sesame oil market, Fact.MRs report has offered segment-wise forecast & analysis. The global market for sesame oil is categorised into product type, distribution channels, end-users, and region. The segmentation analysis offered in the report is comprehensive, along with the in-depth country-wise forecast offered on all parameters.Browse Full Report With TOC-Key Estimations from Fact.MRs Report on the Global Sesame Oil Market1- The retail segment is expected to remain the most lucrative among end-users in the global market for sesame oil, with sales estimated to register the fastest expansion through 2022.2- Sales of sesame oil will continue to exhibit a sluggish expansion in food processor segment throughout the forecast period.3- Sales of sesame oil in specialty stores will register the highest CAGR through 2022, based on distribution channels.4- Modern trade will continue to be the most lucrative distribution channel in the market, with sales projected to account for over one-third market share, in terms of revenues, during the forecast period.5- Processed sesame oil will remain preferred product among consumers in the market. Revenues from processed sesame oil sales will account for approximately US$ 7,000 Mn by 2022-end.6- In terms of revenues, sales of processed sesame oil will hold around three-fourth market share through 2022.7- During 2017 to 2022, Europe will continue to be the most lucrative region for the sesame oil market, in terms of revenues. Revenues from sesame oil sales in Europe are expected to account for more than one-fourth market share over the forecast period.Competition TrackingGlobal leaders in the sesame oil market as profiled in Fact.MRs report include The Adani Wilmar Ltd., Archer Daniels Midland Company, Marico Limited, Ruchi Soya Industries Limited, Cargill Inc., ConAgra Foods (Agrotech Foods Ltd), Fuji Oil Holdings Inc., Olympic Oils Limited, American Vegetable Oils, Inc., Adams Group Inc., Borges International Group S.L.U., Bunge Limited, and Associated British Foods plc.Request For Discount On This Report-About Fact.MRFact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; thats why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports.Contact UsFact.MRSuite 988427 Upper Pembroke Street,Dublin 2, IrelandTelephone: +353-1-6111-593Email: sales@factmr.com/Web:Baby Powder Global Market Top Key Players  Pigeon , Johnson & Johnson , California Baby , Wyeth , Lancome and Forecast to 2025

Baby Powder Market

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Global Baby Powder MarketDescriptionWiseGuyReports.Com adds Global Baby Powder Market Research Report 2018 Research To Its Database.Global Baby Powder Market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingPigeonJohnson & JohnsonCalifornia BabyWyethLancomeBurt's BeesDr.BrownsGoodbabyFIVERAMSWakodoSanosanZichumyCareforYumeijingGet sample Report @Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Baby Powder in these regions, from 2013 to 2025 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoOrganic Baby PowderNon-organic Baby Powder?On the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate for each application, includingHouseholdMedicalComplete Report Details @Table of Contents -Major Key PointsGlobal Baby Powder Market Research Report 20181 Baby Powder Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Baby Powder1.2 Baby Powder Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Baby Powder Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2013-2025)1.2.2 Global Baby Powder Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20171.2.3 Organic Baby Powder1.2.4 Non-organic Baby Powder?1.3 Global Baby Powder Segment by Application1.3.1 Baby Powder Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2013-2025)1.3.2 Household1.3.3 Medical1.4 Global Baby Powder Market by Region (2013-2025)1.4.1 Global Baby Powder Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2013-2025)1.4.2 North America Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Baby Powder (2013-2025)1.5.1 Global Baby Powder Revenue Status and Outlook (2013-2025)1.5.2 Global Baby Powder Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2013-2025).7 Global Baby Powder Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 Pigeon7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Baby Powder Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 Pigeon Baby Powder Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Johnson & Johnson7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Baby Powder Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 California Baby7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Baby Powder Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 California Baby Baby Powder Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Wyeth7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.4.2 Baby Powder Product Category, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Product A7.4.2.2 Product B7.4.3 Wyeth Baby Powder Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.5 Lancome7.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.5.2 Baby Powder Product Category, Application and Specification7.5.2.1 Product A7.5.2.2 Product B7.5.3 Lancome Baby Powder Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.6 Burt's Bees7.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.6.2 Baby Powder Product Category, Application and Specification7.6.2.1 Product A7.6.2.2 Product B7.6.3 Burt's Bees Baby Powder Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.7 Dr.Browns7.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.7.2 Baby Powder Product Category, Application and Specification7.7.2.1 Product A7.7.2.2 Product B7.7.3 Dr.Browns Baby Powder Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.8 Goodbaby7.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.8.2 Baby Powder Product Category, Application and Specification7.8.2.1 Product A7.8.2.2 Product B7.8.3 Goodbaby Baby Powder Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.8.4 Main Business/Business Overview..CONTINUEDAbout UsWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, Industry research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available.NORAH TRENTPartner Relations & Marketing Managersales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)Conveyor & Conveying Equipment Market Size, Share, Dynamic Research, Insights, Regional Outlook And Forecasts 2018 to 2025 - Acute Market Reports

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This report studies Conveyor & Conveying Equipment in Global market, especially in North America, China, Europe, Southeast Asia, Japan and India, with production, revenue, consumption, import and export in these regions, from 2013 to 2018, and forecast to 2025.Browse Full Report with Toc Visit:This report focuses on top manufacturers in global market, with production, price, revenue and market share for each manufacturer, covering Daifuku Ssi Schaefer Dematic Group Bosch Rexroth Caterpillar Murata Machinery Vanderlande Mahindra Tsubaki Conveyor Systems Fives Group Taikisha Swisslog Hytrol Buhler Group Shuttleworth Siemens BEUMER Group Eisenmann Emerson Flexlink Interroll Dorner ConveyorsOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into Roller Conveyors Belt Conveyors Overhead Conveyors Pallet Conveyors Other ConveyorsBy Application, the market can be split into Automotive Food & Beverages Engineering Machinery Retail OthersBy Regions, this report covers (we can add the regions/countries as you want) North America China Europe Southeast Asia Japan IndiaIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Table of Content:1 Industry Overview of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment1.1 Definition and Specifications of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment1.1.1 Definition of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment1.1.2 Specifications of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment1.2 Classification of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment1.2.1 Roller Conveyors1.2.2 Belt Conveyors1.2.3 Overhead Conveyors1.2.4 Pallet Conveyors1.2.5 Other Conveyors1.3 Applications of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment1.3.1 Automotive1.3.2 Food & Beverages1.3.3 Engineering Machinery1.3.4 Retail1.3.5 Others1.4 Market Segment by Regions1.4.1 North America1.4.2 China1.4.3 Europe1.4.4 Southeast Asia1.4.5 Japan1.4.6 India2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment2.1 Raw Material and Suppliers2.2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment2.3 Manufacturing Process Analysis of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment2.4 Industry Chain Structure of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment3 Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Conveyor & Conveying Equipment3.1 Capacity and Commercial Production Date of Global Conveyor & Conveying Equipment Major Manufacturers in 20173.2 Manufacturing Plants Distribution of Global Conveyor & Conveying Equipment Major Manufacturers in 20173.3 R&D Status and Technology Source of Global Conveyor & Conveying Equipment Major Manufacturers in 20173.4 Raw Materials Sources Analysis of Global Conveyor & Conveying Equipment Major Manufacturers in 2017Browse Full Reports with Toc:Latest Reports:Trimethylgallium (TMG) Market:Automotive Seals and Gaskets Market:About UsAcute Market Reports is the most sufficient collection of market intelligence services online. It is your only source that can fulfill all your market research requirements. We provide online reports from over 100 best publishers and upgrade our collection regularly to offer you direct online access to the worlds most comprehensive and recent database with expert perceptions on worldwide industries, products, establishments and trends. Our database consists of 200,000+ market research reports with detailed & minute market research.Contact usName: Chris PaulDesignation: Global Sales ManagerAddress: 105 N 1st ST #429, SAN JOSE, CA 95103, United StatesEmail: - sales@acutemarketreports.comToll Free (US/CANADA): +1-855-455-8662Website: -Concrete Admixtures Market : Rugged Expansion Foreseen by 2025

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Global Concrete Admixture Market: SnapshotOver the last two decades, there has been a remarkable expansion in urban areas around the world. This has escalated the pace of infrastructural development and constructional activities. With the booming construction industry in most of the parts of the world, the global concrete admixtures market is expected to rake in a healthy share of the revenue pie. Concrete admixtures are believed to make concrete structures more economical for contractors and other stakeholders. They find their application in residential and non-residential sectors.Emerging countries such as China, India, the U.A.E, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Egypt will be sights of high growth rate, owing to rising requirements for housing and infrastructure The growth of the market is also augmented by increasing consumer spending, spiraling demand for durable and aesthetic civil structure. Infrastructural development is majorly fuelled by the contribution of governments and therefore, government funding plays a vital role in the growth of the market.Request Sample Copy of the Report@While emerging countries will offer fertile grounds for the development of the market, gaining high profits in industrialized regions will be challenging for manufacturers due to matured nature of these markets. These regions have established and rather advanced infrastructure and the majority of demand for concrete admixture will be for maintenance and repair activities. Moreover, turbulence in the economic conditions at the global scale is negatively impacting the construction and real estate industry, which in turn is inhibiting the growth of the global concrete admixtures market.Global Concrete Admixtures Market: OverviewAdmixtures constitute those form of ingredients in a concrete mixture which are added during or immediately before the mixing procedure. They are, however, not to be confused with other ingredients such as water, Portland cement, or the aggregate. Plain concrete mixes fall short of providing the characteristics that can be easily obtained from concrete admixtures. While concrete admixtures are added to concrete at the time of batching or mixing, the dosages are normally less than 5.0% by the mass of the cement used.Request TOC of the Report @On the basis of function, concrete admixtures can see a classification by air entraining admixtures, water reducing admixtures, plasticizers, accelerating admixtures, retarding admixtures, retarding admixtures, hydration-control admixtures, corrosion inhibitors, shrinkage reducers, alkali-silica reactivity inhibitors, and coloring admixtures.Global Concrete Admixtures Market: Driving FactorsConcrete admixtures have gained prominence in concrete construction activities as they allow cost reduction. Apart from enhancing the quality of concrete, they help in its maintenance during important stages such as mixing, transporting, placing, and curing and also in adverse weather conditions. Besides this, they find important usage in building and construction activities as well, which is one of the colossal markets on the globe with regard to revenue generation.Various application segments such as highways, houses, bridges, sidewalks, and skyscrapers are expected to significantly add to the rise in the consumption of concrete and consequently, concrete admixtures. Likewise, there is a growing demand from a variety of end users which is equally contributing to the growth. Plasticizers, especially super-plasticizers, are envisaged to lead the international concrete admixtures market among the other segments in the category.Read Comprehensive Overview of Report @While the mature markets in developed regions could affect the growth of the global concrete admixtures market, new avenues are expected to open in developing markets with the inflating demand for ready-mix concrete (RMC).Global Concrete Admixtures Market: Geographical AnalysisOwing to the growth in residential complexes, corporate offices, and architectural designs, Asia Pacific had majorly contributed to the global concrete admixtures market in the recent past. The rising urbanization in Asia Pacific countries and elevating strength of the world population are currently driving the global building and construction market and will continue to drive as projected. Emerging economies such as India and China are contributing to the growth of the market in the Asia Pacific region on the back of changing lifestyles and swelling urbanization.South Africa followed by Europe also held an impressive consumption rate. However, North America has witnessed a stable advancement in the global concrete admixtures market. This trend is envisioned to continue until the end of the forecast period.Global Concrete Admixtures Market: Key VendorsAmong others, Ashland Inc., BASF, CICO Technologies Ltd., The Dow Chemical Company, Fosroc, Sika AG, LanYa Concrete Admixtures Co. Ltd., CHRYSO, and W.R. Grace & Co. are the crucial global players in the concrete admixtures market. The report presented here studies each company to provide a comprehensive analysis of their critical marketing strategies and future plans. The competitive landscape illustrated by the analysts will help the report buyers to gain a competitive edge in the global market.About UsTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.comTrifluralin Market : Competitive Landscape by 2025

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Global Trifluralin Market: SnapshotTrifluralin is extensively used as a herbicide across the globe. It is extracted with dichloromethane and detected using capillary gas chromatography with a nitrogenphosphorus detector. It is commercially available as a liquid, emulsifiable concentrate, or granular formula. It is registered for the control of annual grasses and broad-leaved weeds in cotton, ornamental plants, and food crops such as cabbage, broccoli, sugar beet, beans, onions, sugar cane, sunflowers, tomatoes, soybeans, vineyards, and a number of leafy green vegetables. Various studies show that cotton, soybean, and ornamental plants account for a substantial share in the global consumption of trifluralin.Trifluralin has a low solubility in water and has the ability to form strong bonds with soil. There are a wide range of pests that can be targeted using trifluralin, including bottle grass, bristlegrass, carpetweed, chickweed, crabgrass, cupgrass, field morningglory, German millet, goathead, hairy crabgrass, henbit, junglerice, knotweed, lovegrass, Mexican fireweed, pigeongrass, pigweed, red rice, Russian thistle, silver crabgrass, watergrass, wild oat, wild barley, and woolly cupgrass.Request Sample Copy of the Report@Trifluralin inhibits the development of meristem. It penetrates the developing plant roots where it hampers cell growth and division of the plant. It should be used with caution and in selective plants only else it may negatively impact the growth. Various lab tests suggest that it can inhibit onion and cabbage germination. Trifluralin is practically nontoxic to humans and birds in acute exposures. However, it has a very high toxicity to fish and other aquatic organisms. These disadvantages are adversely affecting the development of the global market for trifluralin.Global Trifluralin Market: OverviewThe global trifluralin market is projected to rise on the back of its main function as an inhibitor of weed growth. With key applications in the agriculture industry, the global market will ride on a robust demand for trifluralin products.Trifluralin helps to control the germination of a variety of broadleaf weeds by restraining their cell division and interrupting mitosis during the development of roots. The herbicide interferes with the synthesis of protein ropes that separate chromosomes during the process of cell division. In most cases, trifluralin is employed as a pre-emergent herbicide. It is studied that the ability of trifluralin to cling with organic matter and substandard water solubility could affect its efficacy and use. However, the crucial advantages provided by trifluralin in different applications compensate for its faint negations.Request TOC of the Report @Global Trifluralin Market: TrendsThe European Union (EU) has already banned the usage of trifluralin, owing to the risk to fish and other aquatic species with the herbicides high toxicity level. Moreover, the threat of substitutes could be lingering around the growth of the global trifluralin market.Howbeit, the international market for trifluralin is anticipated to witness a strong advancement with its significant applications in the growing agriculture industry. The herbicide cancels the need to wait for a longer time until the unwanted plantings, especially weeds, are eliminated completely. While tiling is the most commonly used method of decomposing weeds naturally, modern-day techniques which use trifluralin are taking precedence quickly. Trifluralin helps to accelerate the turnaround time for crops while minimizing the dependence on the tiling activity. The herbicide is also a great mode of weed removal which encourages cost-effectiveness and reduction in labor and time.In this regard, the worldwide trifluralin market is envisaged to take advantage of the necessity for faster crop production and the rising agricultural sector.Read Comprehensive Overview of Report @Global Trifluralin Market: GeographyThe demand in the developed regions, such as the U.S. and Australia, of the global trifluralin market is favorable. However, China as part of a developing region has been struggling due to the regulatory issues that are inhibiting the growth of its manufacturing plants. The short supply of intermediate chemicals required for production are also adding to the gradual downslide. This has resulted in an augment in the price of trifluralin over the past few years. The Chinese manufacturers have been cancelling supply contracts because of the steady price increase. New contracts have seen a rise, however with increased prices and generally, reduced supply.Global Trifluralin Market: CompetitionWith a gamut of manufacturers operating across different geographical locations, the global trifluralin market is expected to stay fragmented during the course of the forecast period 20172025. Some of the important players in the global market are Shenzhen Sunrising Industry Co., Ltd., Shandong Qiaochang Chemical Co., Ltd., Chongqing Shurong Chemical Co., Ltd., BASF, Jiangsu Fengshan Group Co., Ltd., and Dow Chemical Company. Among others, ADVANCE 10G, HERITAGE, TREFLAN HFP, TREFLAN TR-10, and TREFLAN NF are the prominent trade banners under which the Dow Chemical Company has been manufacturing trifluralin on a large scale.About UsTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Our savvy custom-built reports span a gamut of industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and metals, food and beverages, and technology and media, among others. With actionable insights uncovered through in-depth research of the market, we try to bring about game-changing success for our clients.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050Email: sales@tmrresearch.comGlobal Fuel Card Market Size, Trends & Forecast 2017-2021 key Players - BP, WEX Inc., FLEETCOR and Royal Dutch Shell

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"The Latest Research Report Global Fuel Card Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2017-2021) provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"The report entitled Global Fuel Card Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2017-2021) provides an in-depth analysis of the global fuel card market with detailed description of market size and growth. The analysis includes market size in terms of value, market share by region and, addressable market. Fuel card penetration rate by region, on the basis of types of vehicle has also been provided.The report also provides brief regional/country analysis of Europe. The analysis include market sizing in terms of value and fuel spending. Europe is expected to dominate the global fuel card market in the forecasted period also.Furthermore, the report also assesses the key opportunities available in the market and outlines the market dynamics that are and will be accountable for growth of the industry. Growth of the global fuel card market has also been forecasted for the period 2017-2021, taking into consideration previous growth outlines, growth drivers and the existing and forthcoming trends.Get Sample Copy of this report @A brief company profiling of major players namely BP, WEX Inc., FLEETCOR and, Royal Dutch Shell has been provided in the report on the basis of aspects like business overview, financial overview and business strategies adopted by respective companies.Company CoverageBritish Petroleum (BP)WEX Inc.FLEETCORRoyal Dutch ShellRegion CoverageEuropeExecutive SummaryA card especially designed for the payment the fuel stations are known as fuel cards or fleet cards. The card is similar in appearance like a credit card, and works in a similar way.A wide variety of fuel cards are available in the market and each with different features and specifications. The most common types of fuel cards are: Branded Fuel Cards, Universal Fuel Cards and, Merchant Branded Cards. On the basis of type of vehicles, fuel cards are available for light fleets and heavy fleets.The global fuel card market has increased at a significant growth rate over the past few years and projections are made that the market would rise in the next four years i.e. 2017 to 2021. The global fuel card market is expected to increase on the back of rising demand for cashless fuel transactions, consolidation of the fragmented market, availability of a large number of value added services associated with fuel cards, etc. Yet the market faces some challenges such as rising competition from new entrants, changing legal framework, volatile oil prices, rising consumer expectations, etc.Browse Complete Report with TOC @Table Of Contents1. Executive Summary2. Introduction2.1 Overview of Fuel Card2.1.1 Types of Fuel CardOn the Basis of VehiclesOn the Basis of Enterprise2.1.2 Benefits of Fuel Card2.1.3 Major Fuel Card Providers3. Global Market Analysis3.1 Global Fuel Card Market Analysis3.1.1 Global Fuel Card Market by Value3.1.2 Global Fuel Card Addressable Market by Region3.1.3 Global Fuel Card Market Share by Region3.1.4 Global Light Fleet Fuel Card Penetration Rate by Region3.1.5 Global Heavy Fleet Fuel Card Penetration Rate by Region3.1.6 Global Fuel Card Addressable Market Segments by Region3.1.7 Global Revenue per Fleet Card4. Region/Country AnalysisView Sample PDF @4.1 European Fuel Card Market Analysis4.1.1 European Fuel Card Market: An Outlook4.1.2 European Fuel Card Market by Value4.1.3 Northern Europe Fuel Card Market by Fuel Spending4.1.4 Western Europe Fuel Card Market by Fuel Spending4.1.5 Eastern Europe Fuel Card Market by Fuel Spending4.1.6 Southern Europe Fuel Card Market by Fuel Spending5. Market Dynamics5.1 Growth Drivers5.1.1 Availability of Host of Options5.1.2 Alleviation of Fuel Theft5.1.3 Cost Saving5.1.4 Rising Demand for Cashless Fuel Transactions5.1.6 Consolidation of Fragmented Market5.2 Challenges5.2.1 Rising Competition from New Entrants5.2.2 Changing Legal Frameworks5.2.3 Growing Consumer Expectations5.2.4 Fluctuating Oil Prices5.2.5 Limited Opportunities5.3 Market Trends5.3.1 Omnichannel Experience5.3.2 Loyalty Offering Programs5.3.3 Outsourcing of Fuel Card5.3.4 Technological Advancements5.3.5 Host Card Emulation6. Competitive Landscape6.1 The US Fuel Card Market Share by Players6.2 European Fuel Card Market by Key PlayersBuy Now This Report From Here @About 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.ContactMr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.bizFeb 12, 2018: RF Modules Manufacturers Market Abracon LLC, Microchip Technology, Murata

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MarketsResearch.Biz Recently added detailed market study on the "Global RF Modules Market Research Report 2018-2025" which provides an outlook of current market value of RF Modules Market as well as the expected forecast of Rate on Investment (ROI) with growing CAGR of XX% in RF Modules Market by the end of 2025. The report on the global RF Modules market uses the top-down and bottom-up approaches to define, analyze, and describe the RF Modules market 2018 trends for the next five years up to 2025.Get sample here :Top Companies Analysis Mentioned1. Abracon LLC2. Microchip Technology3. Murata4. Navia5. NXP Semiconductors6. Panasonic Corporation7. Parallax8. Qorvo9. RF Digital Corp10. Silicon Labs11. STMicroelectronics12. TAIYO YUDEN13. TDK RF Solutions14. Telit Communications15. OthersRF Modules Market Growth Analysis By Type 2.4 GHz Sub-GHz 2.4 GHz / 5 GHzRF Modules Market Growth Analysis By Application Up to 3.3 V 3.3 to 5 V Up to 5 VThe Global RF Modules Market Provides comprehensive understanding of the market with the help of RF Modules market outlook, opportunities, challenges, trends, RF Modules Market size, share and growth, competitive analysis, major competitors and Porter analysis. RF Modules market report further provides production, capacity, RF Modules market price per region, gross margin for all major regions and countries listed in RF Modules report.Browse full report :The RF Modules Market report provides upstream and downstream analysis of RF Modules market that covering major raw material used in manufacturing of RF Modules along with detailed manufacturing sources. RF Modules report Detailed raw material price trend analysis along with RF Modules manufacturing cost analysis is also incorporated into the report.About US:"MarketsResearch.biz" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact US:5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWeb:Email: sales@marketsresearch.bizCurtain Wall Global Market Top Key Players  Apogee Enterprises , Permasteelisa , Schuco International , Yuanda China Holdings , Skanska and Forecast to 2021

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Global Curtain Wall MarketDescriptionWiseGuyReports.Com adds Global Curtain Wall Market 2017-2021 Research To Its Database.Curtain walls are non-structural cladding systems used in multi-story buildings as external walls. They are different from traditional brick and mortar walls as they do not support the weight of the building. Curtain walls support their own weight along with small loads, such as wind and seismic loads. However, these systems do not support the load of buildings, such as traditional wall systems, and are not a part of the primary structure of the building. The major advantage of curtain walls when compared with normal walls is that they can be built using lightweight materials and thus the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Also, by using curtain walls, the penetration of natural light into the building can be increased, reducing the need for lighting during the daytime.The analysts forecast the global curtain wall market to grow at a CAGR of 5.79% during the period 2017-2021.Covered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global curtain wall market for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the demand for curtain walls.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography: APAC, Europe, North America, ROWGet sample Report @The Global Curtain Wall Market 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendors Apogee Enterprises Permasteelisa Schuco International Yuanda China Holdings SkanskaOther prominent vendors AVIC SANXIN Central Glass CHINA FANGDA GROUP FAR EAST GLOBAL GROUP Saint-Gobain Glass Gold Mantis YKKMarket driver Rapid growth of construction sector For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge Sluggish Chinese economy For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trend Increase in number of skyscrapers For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this report What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be? What are the key market trends? What is driving this market? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key vendors in this market space?Complete Report Details @Table of Contents -Major Key PointsPART 01: Executive summaryPART 02: Scope of the reportPART 03: Research MethodologyPART 04: Introduction Market outlinePART 05: Market landscape Market overview Market size and forecast Five forces analysisPART 06: Market segmentation by end-user Market overview Global curtain wall market by commercial sector Global curtain wall market by public sector Global curtain wall market by residential sectorPART 07: Geographical segmentation Market Overview Curtain wall market in APAC Curtain wall market in North America Curtain wall market in EuropePART 08: Decision frameworkPART 09: Drivers and challenges Market drivers Market challengesPART 10: Market trends Increase in number of skyscrapers Green building trend Solar curtain wall and LED glass display curtain wallsPART 11: Vendor landscape Market overview Other prominent vendorsPART 12: Key vendor analysis Apogee Enterprises Permasteelisa Schuco International Yuanda China Holdings Skanska..CONTINUEDAbout UsWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, Industry research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available.NORAH TRENTPartner Relations & Marketing Managersales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) Key Players Ironwood Pharmaceuticals Inc, Shionogi & Co Ltd, Sucampo Pharmaceuticals Inc, Synergy Pharmaceuticals Inc, and Theravance Biopharma Inc Market Analysis and Forecast 2022

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WiseGuyReports.com with their unique quality of simplifying the market research study, presents a deep diving study report Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) - Pipeline Review, H1 2018Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC)OverviewOpioids are effective pain relievers, but often have the side effect of constipation. These medicines affect the gastrointestinal tract in a variety of ways. Opioids increase the amount of time it takes stool to move through the gastric system. They increase non-propulsive contractions in the middle of the small intestine (jejunum) and decrease longitudinal propulsive peristalsis - motions critical to moving food through the intestines.This results in food that fails to travel through the digestive tract. Opioids are also able to partially paralyze the stomach (gastroparesis) so that food remains in the digestive organ for a longer period of time. Additionally opioids reduce digestive secretions and decrease the urge to defecate. Symptoms of OIC include feeling and being sick, tiredness and lethargy, appetite loss, feeling depressed.Click here for sample report @Top Companies mentionedIronwood Pharmaceuticals IncShionogi & Co LtdSucampo Pharmaceuticals IncSynergy Pharmaceuticals IncTheravance Biopharma IncOpioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) Global Industry Major Highlights:The pipeline guide provides a snapshot of the global therapeutic landscape of Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) (Toxicology).The pipeline guide reviews pipeline therapeutics for Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) (Toxicology) by companies and universities/research institutes based on information derived from company and industry-specific sources.The pipeline guide covers pipeline products based on several stages of development ranging from pre-registration till discovery and undisclosed stages.The pipeline guide features descriptive drug profiles for the pipeline products which comprise, product description, descriptive licensing and collaboration details, R&D brief, MoA & other developmental activities.The pipeline guide reviews key companies involved in Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) (Toxicology) therapeutics and enlists all their major and minor projects.The pipeline guide evaluates Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) (Toxicology) therapeutics based on mechanism of action (MoA), drug target, route of administration (RoA) and molecule type.The pipeline guide encapsulates all the dormant and discontinued pipeline projects.Reasons to buyProcure strategically important competitor information, analysis, and insights to formulate effective R&D strategies.Recognize emerging players with potentially strong product portfolio and create effective counter-strategies to gain competitive advantage.Find and recognize significant and varied types of therapeutics under development for Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) (Toxicology).Classify potential new clients or partners in the target demographic.Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) - Competitive AnalysisKey players are making innovative developments in Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC) industry. The same will help in improving the market performance. Heavy investments are made by major players in the R&D sector.ContinuedFor Detailed Reading Please visit @Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available. We also provide COTS (Commercial off the Shelf) business sector reports as custom exploration agreeing your particular needs.WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaGlobal Live Chat Market Size, Trends & Forecast 2017-2021 Key Players - LiveChat Software SA, LivePerson, Inc. Zendesk, Inc. and Atlassian

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"The Latest Research Report Global Live Chat Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2017-2021) provides information on pricing, market analysis, shares, forecast, and company profiles for key industry participants. - MarketResearchReports.biz"The report titled Global Live Chat Market: Size, Trends & Forecasts (2017-2021), provides an in-depth analysis of the global live chat market by value and by volume. The report also gives an insight of the global cloud computing market and global SaaS market, etc.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 live chat 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 global live chat market is underpenetrated. The competition in the global live chat market is fragmented with several players thriving the market.Further, key players of the Live Chat Market LiveChat Software SA, LivePerson, Inc. Zendesk, Inc. and Atlassian are also profiled with their financial information and respective business strategies.Get Sample Copy of this report @Company CoverageLiveChat Software SALivePerson, Inc.Zendesk, Inc.AtlassianExecutive SummaryCustomer Relationship Management (CRM) refers to the practices, strategies and technical know-how adopted by the companies to manage, analyze, understand customer interactions and data throughout the customer lifecycle, with the aim of improving business relations with customers, increasing customer experiences and satisfaction, customer retention and driving high sales. CRM technology market includes Classic Model and SaaS model. The functioning of CRM includes Company Website, Live Chat, Direct Mail, Telephone, etc.Live chat is basically a customer relationship management (CRM) product used by businesses to communicate with their customers, who are browsing their websites in real time. Through live chat, customer services can reach potential customers directly, who receive a message in a chat window while they are browsing.The global live chat market is expected to increase at a significant CAGR during the years 2017-2021. The live chat market is expected to increase due to growth in retail e-commerce industry, increase in tourism industry, growth in the global gambling industry, etc. Yet the market faces some challenges such as, possibility of a price war and risk of cyber-attacks, etc.Browse Complete Report with TOC @Table Of Contents1. Executive Summary2. Introduction2.1 Customer Relationship Management (CRM): An Overview2.1.1 CRM Technology Market2.1.2 Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Functioning2.1.3 CRM Through Cloud Based or SaaS Model2.2 Cloud Computing: An Overview2.2.1 Cloud Computing on the Basis of Service2.2.2 Software-as-a Service (SaaS) Software2.3 Live Chat: An Overview3. Global Market Analysis3.1 Global Cloud Market: An Analysis3.1.1 Global Cloud Computing Market by Value3.1.2 Global Cloud Market Value by Segments3.1.3 Global Cloud Application Services (SaaS) Market by Value3.1.3 Global Live Chat Market by Penetration in the SaaS Market3.2 Global Live Chat Market: An Analysis3.2.1 Global Live Chat Market by Value3.2.2 Global Live Chat Market by Addressable Volume4. Market Dynamics4.1 Growth Drivers4.1.1 Increasing Retail E-commerce Sales Worldwide4.1.2 Rising Global Number of Smartphone Users4.1.3 Growing Number of Internet Users Worldwide4.1.4 Soaring Global Online Gambling Market by Value4.1.5 Increasing International Tourism & Global Passengers Carried Through Air Transport4.2 Challenges4.2.1 Risk of Cyber-Attacks or Technical Issues4.2.2 Price WarView Sample PDF @4.3 Market Trends4.3.1 Expanding Global Omni-Channel Retail Addressable Market by Value4.3.2 Proportionate Use of Various Customer Service Channels4.3.3 Mergers and Acquisitions4.3.4 Low Barriers to Entry4.3.5 Emergence of Mobile Based CRMs4.3.6 Booming IT and Consulting Firms5. Competitive Landscape5.1 Global Live Chat Market Players: A Comparison5.1.1 Global Live Chat Market Players by Features5.1.2 Global Live Chat Market Players by Pricing5.2 Global Live Chat Market Players by Share6. Company Profile6.1 LiveChat Software SA6.1.1 Business Overview6.1.2 Financial Overview6.1.3 Business Strategy6.2 LivePerson, Inc.6.2.1 Business Overview6.2.2 Financial Overview6.2.3 Business Strategy6.3 Zendesk, Inc.6.3.1 Business Overview6.3.2 Financial Overview6.3.3 Business Strategy6.4 Atlassian6.4.1 Business Overview6.4.2 Financial Overview6.4.3 Business StrategyBuy Now This Report From Here @About 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.ContactMr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.bizSorry for inconvenience!

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Albany, NY, 12th February : Recent research and the current scenario as well as future market potential of "Food Delivery Mobile Application Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2017 - 2025" globally.The world food delivery mobile application market is treading a growth path as technology has become an essential element of functioning of several industry sectors including the food industry. The acceptance of technology in the food industry is gaining pace as both businesses and consumers are reaping the benefits.Get PDF for more Professional and Technical insights @The reports authors appropriately segments the global market for food delivery mobile application based on deployment type, end user, and geography.The analysts of this publication have provided an in-depth analysis of the world food delivery mobile application market along with substantial focus on the competitive structure. The key regions of the market have been carefully evaluated and analyzed to reveal growth opportunities that market players can tap into in the forthcoming years.Global Food Delivery Mobile Application Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe worldwide market for food delivery mobile application is gaining impetus from the incessant penetration of smartphones. The increasing ubiquity of smartphones for everyday functioning has enabled the food industry to leverage this medium for expanding customer base. Restaurants, food service joints, and proprietors and franchisees of food selling services are leveraging mobile application as an innovative way to attract customers.In todays fast paced world, the connection between businesses and end-consumers has played a pivotal role in the growth of any business. The increasing number of online platforms have led to a rapid change in food delivery model across many parts of the world such as in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The food delivery process has changed from website ordering to using mobile application on smartphones.Make An Enquiry About TOC with tables & Figures @On the part of technology providers, efforts to introduce novel mobile applications for the food service segment that are easy to browse and are visually appealing is also boosting the markets growth. These applications are aggregated platform that act as a middleman between restaurants and customers and allow users to access single or multiple restaurants.Mobile applications can be used to serve the food industry in other ways as well. This includes online slot reservation and online ordering of digital menu card. This helps individuals to make reservations on the go owing to features such as delivery location, customer orders, and reviews. Technological advances such as GPS which is increasingly becoming common feature in smartphones is also helpful for the food industry.The food delivery mobile application market faces growth challenges due to low Internet connectivity on mobile devices. Furthermore, additional cost incurred by restaurant or food service franchisee to launch a mobile application, and further for maintenance, installation, and marketing is limiting the growth of food delivery mobile application market to some extent.Global Food Delivery Mobile Application Market: Geographical EvaluationOn a regional outlook, Asia Pacific is envisaged to secure dominance in the worldwide market for food delivery mobile application during the forecast period. The swelling adoption of technology on account of increasing initiatives to strengthen the entire food delivery ecosystem is boosting the growth of Asia Pacific food delivery mobile application market. Initiatives undertaken by technology providers to ensure competence and effectiveness of mobile apps is aiding this regional market to secure a leading position.The report also offers an analysis of other key regions in the global food delivery mobile application market, viz. North America and Europe.Global Food Delivery Mobile Application Market: Companies MentionedProminent participants in the global food delivery mobile application market include IBM Corporation, Cognizant, Google Inc., Zoho Corporation Pvt. Ltd., SAP SE, Apple Inc., Mendix CA Inc., Red Hat Inc., and Microsoft Corporation. Included in the report are critical insights about the business landscape and competition that prevails 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.Browse Report @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 analysisResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.ResearchMozMr. Nachiket Ghumare,90 State Street, Albany NY, United States - 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074USA-Canada Toll Free: 866-997-4948Email: sales@researchmoz.usFollow us on LinkedIn @Follow me on :Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Analysis with Inputs from Industry Experts

Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market

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HTF MI published a new industry research that focuses on World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc)and delivers in-depth market analysis and future prospects of World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc). The study covers significant data which makes the research document a handy resource for managers, analysts, industry experts and other key people get ready-to-access and self-analyzed study along with graphs and tables to help understand market trends, drivers and market challenges. The study is segmented by Application/ end users [UTILITY Solution, UPS Solution, Base Transceiver Stations Solution, Residential and Commercial Solution, Global Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market: Regional Segment Analysis, USA, Europe, Japan, China, India, South East Asia, The Players mentioned in our report, NGK Group, ABB, Imergy, SolarCity, SAMSUNG SDI, ZEN, NEC, OutBack, Saft & AEG], products type [Lithium ion battery, All-vanadium flow battery, Zinc-bromine flow battery] and various important geographies like Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy, Spain & Benelux].Get Access to sample pages @The research covers the current market size of the World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) and its growth rates based on 5 year history data along with company profile of key players/manufacturers. The in-depth information by segments of World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc)helps monitor future profitability & to make critical decisions for growth. The information on trends and developments, focuses on markets and materials, capacities, technologies, CAPEX cycle and the changing structure of the World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc).The study provides company profiling, product picture and specifications, sales, market share and contact information of key manufacturers of World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc), some of them listed here are NGK Group, ABB, Imergy, SolarCity, SAMSUNG SDI, ZEN, NEC, OutBack, Saft & AEG with historical and projected market share and compounded annual growth rate. . The market is growing at a very rapid pace and with rise in technological innovation, competition and M&A activities in the industry many local and regional vendors are offering specific application products for varied end-users. The new manufacturer entrants in the market are finding it hard to compete with the international vendors based on quality, reliability, and innovations in technology.Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) (Thousands Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market Split by Product Type such as . Further the research study is segmented by Application such as UTILITY Solution, UPS Solution, Base Transceiver Stations Solution, Residential and Commercial Solution, Global Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market: Regional Segment Analysis, USA, Europe, Japan, China, India, South East Asia, The Players mentioned in our report, NGK Group, ABB, Imergy, SolarCity, SAMSUNG SDI, ZEN, NEC, OutBack, Saft & AEG with historical and projected market share and compounded annual growth rate.Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share and growth rate of World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), covering Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy, Spain & Benelux and its Share (%) and CAGR for the forecasted period 2017 to 2022.Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @Following would be the Chapters to display the World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc).Chapter 1, to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of , , Japan, , South East Asia and etc), Applications of , , Japan, , South East Asia and etc), Market Segment by Regions;Chapter 2, to analyze the Manufacturing Cost Structure, Raw Material and Suppliers, Manufacturing Process, Industry Chain Structure;Chapter 3, to display the Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of , , Japan, , South East Asia and etc), Capacity and Commercial Production Date, Manufacturing Plants Distribution, R&D Status and Technology Source, Raw Materials Sources Analysis;Chapter 4, to show the Overall Market Analysis, Capacity Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Price Analysis (Company Segment);Chapter 5 and 6, to show the Regional Market Analysis that includes Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy, Spain & Benelux, , , Japan, , South East Asia and etc) Segment Market Analysis (by Type);Chapter 7 and 8, to analyze the , , Japan, , South East Asia and etc) Segment Market Analysis (by Application) Major Manufacturers Analysis of , , Japan, , South East Asia and etc);Chapter 9, Market Trend Analysis, Regional Market Trend, Market Trend by Product Type [], Market Trend by Application [UTILITY Solution, UPS Solution, Base Transceiver Stations Solution, Residential and Commercial Solution, Global Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market: Regional Segment Analysis, USA, Europe, Japan, China, India, South East Asia, The Players mentioned in our report, NGK Group, ABB, Imergy, SolarCity, SAMSUNG SDI, ZEN, NEC, OutBack, Saft & AEG];Chapter 10, Regional Marketing Type Analysis, International Trade Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis;Chapter 11, to analyze the Consumers Analysis of Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc);Chapter 12,13, 14 and 15, to describe , , Japan, , South East Asia and etc) sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source.Enquire for customization in Report @What this Research Study Offers:World Advanced Batteries for Utility-Scale Energy Storage Market Research Report 2022 (covering USA, Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) share assessments for the regional and country level segmentsMarket share analysis of the top industry playersStrategic recommendations for the new entrantsMarket forecasts for a minimum of 5 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional marketsMarket Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimationsCompetitive landscaping mapping the key common trendsCompany profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developmentsSupply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancementsBuy this research report @Reasons for Buying this ReportThis report provides pin-point analysis for changing competitive dynamicsIt provides a forward looking perspective on different factors driving or restraining market growthIt provides a six-year forecast assessed on the basis of how the market is predicted to growIt helps in understanding the key product segments and their futureIt provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitorsIt helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segmentsThanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia.HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the Accurate Forecast in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their Goals & Objectives.Contact us :HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private LimitedUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJNew Jersey USA  08837sales@htfmarketreport.com+1 (206) 317 1218Material Jetting Market Projected to Grow at a Steady Pace During 2017 - 2025

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Material Jetting Market OverviewThe term 3D printing has become widely recognised in the last few years, but hardly anybody would know the term Additive Manufacturing. In reality, 3D printing is just one of several Additive Manufacturing techniques. While the media likes to use the term 3D printing to refer to all AM processes, there are actually 7 different categories. They are VAT Photopolymerisation, Binder Jetting, Material Extrusion, Powder Bed Fusion, Sheet Lamination, Directed Energy Deposition, and Material Jetting. The Material Jetting Market is responsible for creating objects in a similar manner to a 2D inkjet printer. The material is thrust onto a build platform with either a Drop on Demand (DOD) or continuous approach. Once jetted onto the platform, the material solidifies and the object is built in a layer by layer approach. The nozzle depositing the material moves in a horizontal fashion across the build platform.Request to Sample of Report-Machines in the Material Jetting Market vary in size, complexity and their methods of controlling the method of depositing the material. The materials are then treated with ultraviolet light which hardens them. The number of materials available to use in this method is severely limited, as it must be deposited in drops. The most suitable and commonly used materials are polymers and waxes due to their adhesive nature and ability to form drops. Some of the polymers used include HDPE, PS, PC, HIPS, ABS, EDP and Polypropylene. Material jetting is the only form of additive manufacturing that can combine different printing materials within the same 3D model in a single print job. It is also capable of making functional assemblies, reducing the need for multiple builds.Material Jetting Market DriversThe material jetting market has major utility in the field of biomedical technology. Most healthcare infections are because of biofilms which form on the medical device surface. They develop a higher tolerance to antibiotics and the immune system compared to their planktonic counterparts. Material jetting allows a precise morphology, size and shape for printed devices. Human tissue, pressure sensitive fingers and smart limbs have all been created using this revolutionary technology.A second driver is the reduced manufacturing time and resources along with the advantage of being able to use multiple materials in one print. Products can be made and customised in specific areas where different materials are placed. This removes the need to print separate layers of various materials and combine them later. In one production run, a complete product can be created with unique materials only in the material jetting market. The printing method makes products with a layer resolution as low as 15 microns.Material Jetting Market RestraintsA major restraint in the material jetting market is the limited materials available to use. While it provides a high degree of accuracy, only some waxes and polymers like HDPE, PS, PC, HIPS, ABS, EDP and Polypropylene can be used. Material jetting is a very complex procedure, with several technical issues throughout the process. One challenge is formulating the liquid material for example. If the material is not liquid in the beginning, particles might need to be suspended in a carrier, dissolving the materials in a solvent, melting a polymer, or mixing a formula of monomer or prepolymer with an initiator. The second technical challenge is formulating and depositing the droplets. The material needs to be converted from a liquid into small discrete drops. After this, the droplet fall path, impact, and interaction or wetting must all be properly controlled. This complexity inevitably leads to a cost increase of the overall process, challenging the growth of the material jetting market.Material Jetting Market Key RegionsNorth America is the largest material jetting market due to a large number of high-tech industries like aerospace & defence, automobile manufacture, and healthcare companies. All these sectors either already use or plan to use material jetting technology. Asia Pacific accounts for the fastest growth rate with China and Japan in particular leading the way because of government funding in R&D and an established manufacturing base.Request Report for TOC @Material Jetting Market Key Market PlayersCompanies operating in the material jetting market are 3D Systems, Solidscape/ Stratasys and XJet and Vader Systems.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.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:Global Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market 2018 Key Players: Altadox, Inc., Celestica, Inc., Creating Technologies LP, FLEX Ltd., Jabil Circuit, Inc.

Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market

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Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market:WiseGuyReports.com adds Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market 2018 Global Analysis, Growth, Trends and Opportunities Research Report Forecasting to 2025reports to its database.Executive SummaryGlobal Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market industry valued approximately USD 16.1 billion in 2016 is anticipated to grow with a healthy growth rate of more than 8.10% over the forecast period 2017-2025. The major factors driving the growth are rising need for Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) worldwide, evolution of innovative products such as home monitoring systems, leak detector systems, and so on, along with complicated monetary products such as forex cards that need informative and succinct advertisement content.The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in previous years and to forecast the values to the next eight years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry with respect to each of the regions and countries involved in the study. Furthermore, the report also caters the detailed information about the crucial aspects such as drivers & restraining factors which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, it will also incorporate the opportunities available in micro markets for stakeholders to invest, detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product offerings of key players. The detailed segments and sub-segment of the market are explained below:End-Use:AutomotiveAerospaceHealthcareTelecomService:DesignManufacturingAssemblyFurthermore, the years considered for the study are as follows:Historical year  2015Base year  2016Forecast period  2017 to 2025Some of the key manufacturers involved in the market are Altadox, Inc., Celestica, Inc., Creating Technologies LP, FLEX Ltd., Jabil Circuit, Inc., Plexus Corporation, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. (Foxconn), Fabrinet, Compal Electronics, Inc., Benchmark Electronics, Inc. Acquisitions and effective mergers are some of the strategies adopted by the key manufacturers. New product launches and focuses on continuous technology innovations are also strategies adopted by the major players. The companies are also trying to dominate the market by investing in research and development.Request Sample Report @Target Audience of the Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market StudyKey Consulting Companies & AdvisorsLarge, medium-sized, and small enterprisesVenture capitalistsValue-Added Resellers (VARs)Third-party knowledge providersInvestment bankersInvestorsTable of Content:Chapter 1. Research Methodology1.1. Research Process1.1.1. Data Mining1.1.2. Analysis1.1.3. Market Estimation1.1.4. Validation1.1.5. Publishing1.2. Research AssumptionChapter 2. Global Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market Definition & Scope2.1. Objective of The Study2.2. Market Definition2.3. Scope of The Study2.4. Years Considered for The Study2.5. Currency Conversion Rates2.6. Report LimitationChapter 3. Executive Summary3.1. Key Trends3.2. Global & Segmental Market Estimates & Forecasts, 2015-2025 (USD Billion/Million)Chapter 4. Global Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Industry Dynamics4.1. Growth Prospects4.1.1. Drivers4.1.2. Restraints4.1.3. Opportunities4.2. Industry Analysis4.2.1. Porters 5 Force Model4.2.2. PEST Analysis4.2.3. Value Chain Analysis4.3. Analyst Recommendation & ConclusionChapter 5. Global Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market by End-UseChapter 6. Global Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market by ServiceChapter 7. Global Electronic Contract Manufacturing Services (EMS) Market, Regional AnalysisChapter 8. Competitive Intelligence8.1. Company Market Share (Subject to Data Availability)8.2. Top Market Strategies8.3. Company Profiles8.3.1. Altadox, Inc.8.3.1.1. Overview8.3.1.2. Financial (Subject to Data Availability)8.3.1.3. Product Summary8.3.1.4. Recent Developments8.3.2. Celestica, Inc.8.3.3. Creating Technologies LP8.3.4. FLEX Ltd.8.3.5. Jabil Circuit, Inc.8.3.6. Plexus Corporation8.3.7. Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. (Foxconn)8.3.8. Fabrinet8.3.9. Compal Electronics, Inc.8.3.10. Benchmark Electronics, IncContinuousFor further information on this report, visit Contact Us:Norah Trentsales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US); +44 208 133 9349 (UK)Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone :+91 841 198 5042Auto Tyre 2018 Global Key Players  Bridgestone, Michelin, Dunlop, Goodyear, Continental...

Auto Tyre Market

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Auto Tyre Market 2018Wiseguyreports.Com Adds Auto Tyre  Global Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities, Manufacturers, Analysis of Top Key Players and Forecast to 2025 To Its Research Database.Description:In this report, the global Auto Tyre market is valued at USD XX million in 2017 and is expected to reach USD XX million by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of XX% between 2017 and 2025.Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Auto Tyre in these regions, from 2013 to 2025 (forecast), coveringUnited StatesEUChinaJapanSouth KoreaIndiaGlobal Auto Tyre market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingBridgestoneMichelinDunlopGoodyearContinentalPirelliHankookSumitomoYokohamaMaxxisZhongceGITI TireCooper TireKumho TireToyo TireMRFApollo TyresTriangle GroupNexen TireTitanBalkrishnaMitasEurotireHengfeng RubberNokian TyresShandong LinglongDouble CoinJinyu TyreJK TyreRequest for Sample Report@On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoRadial TyreBiased TyreOn the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate for each application, includingCommercial AutoPassenger AutoComplete report details @If you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Table of Contents:Global Auto Tyre Market Research Report 20181 Auto Tyre Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Auto Tyre1.2 Auto Tyre Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Auto Tyre Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2013-2025)1.2.2 Global Auto Tyre Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20171.2.3 Radial Tyre1.2.4 Biased Tyre1.3 Global Auto Tyre Segment by Application1.3.1 Auto Tyre Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2013-2025)1.3.2 Commercial Auto1.3.3 Passenger Auto1.4 Global Auto Tyre Market by Region (2013-2025)1.4.1 Global Auto Tyre Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2013-2025)1.4.2 United States Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.3 EU Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.6 South Korea Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Auto Tyre (2013-2025)1.5.1 Global Auto Tyre Revenue Status and Outlook (2013-2025)1.5.2 Global Auto Tyre Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2013-2025)2 Global Auto Tyre Market Competition by Manufacturers2.1 Global Auto Tyre Capacity, Production and Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)2.1.1 Global Auto Tyre Capacity and Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)2.1.2 Global Auto Tyre Production and Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)2.2 Global Auto Tyre Revenue and Share by Manufacturers (2013-2018)2.3 Global Auto Tyre Average Price by Manufacturers (2013-2018)2.4 Manufacturers Auto Tyre Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area and Product Type2.5 Auto Tyre Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.5.1 Auto Tyre Market Concentration Rate2.5.2 Auto Tyre Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Manufacturers2.5.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion.7 Global Auto Tyre Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 Bridgestone7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 Bridgestone Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Michelin7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 Michelin Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 Dunlop7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 Dunlop Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Goodyear7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.4.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Product A7.4.2.2 Product B7.4.3 Goodyear Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.5 Continental7.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.5.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.5.2.1 Product A7.5.2.2 Product B7.5.3 Continental Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.6 Pirelli7.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.6.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.6.2.1 Product A7.6.2.2 Product B7.6.3 Pirelli Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.7 Hankook7.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.7.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.7.2.1 Product A7.7.2.2 Product B7.7.3 Hankook Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.8 Sumitomo7.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.8.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.8.2.1 Product A7.8.2.2 Product B7.8.3 Sumitomo Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.8.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.9 Yokohama7.9.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.9.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.9.2.1 Product A7.9.2.2 Product B7.9.3 Yokohama Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.9.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.10 Maxxis7.10.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.10.2 Auto Tyre Product Category, Application and Specification7.10.2.1 Product A7.10.2.2 Product B7.10.3 Maxxis Auto Tyre Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.10.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.11 Zhongce7.12 GITI Tire7.13 Cooper Tire7.14 Kumho Tire7.15 Toyo Tire7.16 MRF7.17 Apollo Tyres7.18 Triangle Group7.19 Nexen Tire7.20 Titan7.21 Balkrishna7.22 Mitas7.23 Eurotire7.24 Hengfeng Rubber7.25 Nokian Tyres7.26 Shandong Linglong7.27 Double Coin7.28 Jinyu Tyre7.29 JK TyreContinued..Contact US:NORAH TRENTPartner Relations & Marketing Managersales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)About Us:Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:: Wise Guy Research Consultants Pvt Ltd: Pune  411028: Maharashtra,: Ph: +91 841 198 5042Market Dynamics to Escalate Demand for Home Wireless Music Systems Throughout 2017 - 2025

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Home Wireless Music Systems Market OverviewThe home wireless music systems market includes all electronic devices which receive, decode and transmit audio frequencies wirelessly. Some examples include microphones, sound bars, wireless transmitter and receiver systems, speaker adapters, speaker docks, in-ear monitoring systems, Bluetooth headsets etc. They offer customers connectivity, comfort and convenience, all in one affordable package. These devices can operate in sound frequencies ranging from 520 MHz to 1800 MHz. Wireless technology has also played a key role in the growth of the semiconductor market. The home wireless music systems market is intrinsically linked to the rise of streaming services, millennial generation and their demand for smartphones and tablets. Since they are expected to account for the largest demographic group very soon, the future of the home wireless music systems market is bright indeed.Request to Sample of Report-Home Wireless Music Systems Market DriversOne of the main drivers of the home wireless music systems market is the booming demand for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Along with this, there has been a marked increase in the preference for customers to stream music and movies rather than actually downloading and owning it. This gives rise to situations where they may wish to enjoy their content anywhere and anytime. There is therefore an ever increasing home wireless music systems market. Streaming has also led to customers demanding smaller, portable (and cheaper) music systems in the 21st century. While the traditional sound systems will always be purchased by audiophiles, it is expected that the home wireless music systems market will become the dominant one in the near future due to the mobile first approach taken by the developing world. Another driver is the millennial generation who has grown up with technology and has reached the age where they have begun to move into their own apartments. They will usually have smaller flats which makes it preferable for them to go in for smaller, cheaper and/ or wireless devices, spurring the home wireless music systems market.Home Wireless Music Systems Market RestraintsOne of the key challenges to any technology being adopted is complexity. Consumers need to be made aware that the home wireless music systems market will simplify their lives, else they will be very hesitant to purchase the devices. It was expected that the home wireless music systems market would take off by this time but it still hasnt due to a lack of awareness from customers. Another challenge is the negative health effects of such systems, especially on millennials. Youngsters frequently listen to music at a very loud volume, which can cause hearing loss and deafness. This can affect not only them, but also their neighbours, which can be a major issue for manufacturers looking to sell such systems.Home Wireless Music Systems Market Key RegionsNorth America is the largest home wireless music systems market at present. This is because of the high disposable income of customers, an eagerness to adopt latest technologies (like streaming and wireless systems), along with the propensity for millennials to move out of their parents houses. Asia Pacific has the potential to become one of the largest home wireless music systems market in the decades to come. Manufacturers would be advised to focus on China, India, Japan, Singapore and South Korea for double digit growth. This region of the world is anticipated to be a very large market for Bluetooth headsets in the medium to long term.Request Report for TOC @Home Wireless Music Systems Market Key Market PlayersSome of the companies operating in the home wireless music systems market include Sonos, Samsung, Apple Inc., Plantronics, Boston Acoustics, Bose Corporation, Harmon International Industries, Sennheiser Electronic GmBH, Sony Corp. , DEI Holdings, Polk Audio and many more.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.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:Vibration Isolators Market Progresses for Huge Profits During 2017 - 2025

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Vibration Isolators are used to reduce the transmission of noise and vibration between two structures or equipment and to protect them from damage during operations and natural calamity. Vibration Isolators provide protection from vibration in the construction sector majorly caused by rotating Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment and escalators. The product range available for end users also extends for industrial application that includes deployment in agricultural equipment, mining & drilling machinery, heavy tools and rotatory equipment such as turbine, compressors and pump are offering wide range of products for vibration isolators.The vibration isolators with resistibility to corrosion with ability to perform in elevated temperatures find suitability for use in the Aerospace and Defense industries such as tanks, drones, missiles and marine applications. The continuous focus on product development with advanced material formulations is one of the key strategy adopted by the market participants to penetrate into the new Vibration Isolators markets and achieve profitable growth. The manufacturers are working along with the customers across various industries for developing Vibration Isolators solutions to overcome new operational challenges faced by the users. Adding to this, the key players are also focusing to provide the end users with the complete product range, combined with wide availability through an extensive network of distributors and online buying options.Request Sample Report@The building codes outlined by the various associated authorities are being constantly updated with stricter norms to make structures capable of withstanding adverse conditions such as earthquake and blast, expected to drive the demand of Vibration Isolators especially in developed regions. The demand for vibration isolators will gain traction with growing popularity of fire retardant materials. The growing importance of fire protection and sustainability in the construction and manufacturing industries is anticipated to emerge as driving force for demand increase of Vibration Isolators.The ongoing industrialization in the developing economies led by China is one of the most impactful driver as industrial processes and equipment require vibration isolation systems for their proper functioning. Adding to this, there is an increasing demand to vibration isolators from industrial and marine plant and from mechanical equipment owing to rise in the investment in commercial and residential building construction sector. In the recent past, the Vibration Isolators sales had also witnessed growth in demand from medical sector due to growing acceptance of the vibrations isolation platforms for high end microscopy imaging systems. There is also growing demand for Vibration Isolators for the applications in the precision manufacturing industry such as semiconductors. The customer centric service, availability of technical expertise along with commitment to continuous improvement through investment in Research & Technology is important for gaining reliability and brand recognition among end users. The market is expected to further evolve with the advancement in the materials technology in the coming years.Download and View Report TOC, Figures and Tables @The global Vibration Isolators market is segmented into seven key regions: North America, Latin America, Western Europe and Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ), Japan and Middle East and Africa (MEA). In the coming years, Western Europe, Japan and North America are expected to hold notable share due to increase in the demand of vibration isolators solutions for attaining compliance with updated stricter building codes in the region. The APEJ is expected to register significant growth due to growing demand of vibration isolators for end user applications in the developing countries such as China and India. The MEA, Latin America and Eastern Europe are also expected to register healthy CAGR over the forecast period.The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geography, technology and applications.The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.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:Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market: New Study Offers Insights for 2017 - 2025

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Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market OverviewPharmaceutical companies, like many others, face a number of challenges related to their supply chain management. Security lapses as a result of theft, product recalls or diversions can have terrible consequences for patient safety and security not only nationally but on a global level. They also affect the individual companies by directly impacting profitability, goodwill and planned research initiatives. With both the industry and governments realising the importance of adequate safeguards, the Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market came into existence. It has become mandatory for all stakeholders in the supply chain to comply with national and or/state legislation pertaining to the place in which they operate.Request Report for TOC @Rising product theft is a major issue for the pharmaceutical industry, and preventing it has become a key focus. Early approaches adopted included tamper-proof packages and 3-D holograms but even these are now considered easy to manipulate and have fallen out of favour. Current practices in the Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market include assigning a unique identification number to the smallest sale unit (like a bottle) and tracking its serial number through the entire supply chain so that it can be traced and authenticated at any moment. This practice has been in place in countries like China and Turkey for some time now, but now even countries like India and the U.S. have added similar laws. These are anticipated to be across the world over the next few years.Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market DriversMaintaining integrity of an increasingly complex supply chain is an important driver of the Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market. According to the WHO, the pharmaceutical industry loses nearly $40 billion in revenue due to counterfeiting. Billions more are stolen in annual cargo theft. This leads to not only lost sales opportunities but also increases the risk of patient safety. Negative publicity concerning counterfeits or product recalls can also damage the brand image and affect future sales revenue. With the help of the Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market, companies can identify and segregate products destined for different markets or customer segments. Authentication is a major benefit of patient-specific functionality based on serialisation.The second major driver of the Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market is ensuring regulatory compliance. Pharmaceutical companies need to plan and implement their Track-and-Trace and Serialization initiatives at the earliest. The U.S. and the EU will require mandatory serialisation from November 2017 and these two are the largest pharmaceutical markets by far. Together, they account for more than half the industry volume. Thus, companies already in, or wishing to enter these highly lucrative regions will need to comply with their serialisation requirements since their immense size makes them too important to ignore. While other countries like China and Turkey have already adopted these laws, the rest of the developing world will slowly but surely follow suit.Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market RestraintsThe biggest issue faced by the Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market is that of cost. Massive investments are required to make packaging lines capable of product serialisation. Estimates range from a conservative $250,000 all the way up to $1 million per line depending on how complex and automated it already is. These lines will experience production downtime while the changes are being made causing potential sales revenue losses. Some pharmaceutical companies hire contract manufacturers (CMOs) for inventory management. However, they might not be ready for the large investments which may require the Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH) to change CMOs to avoid revenue loss. They may even upgrade the CMOs packaging lines themselves which would be an expensive proposition.The second critical Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market challenge is data management. Serialisation will generate massive amounts of data to be stored for many years to ensure regulatory compliance. The information will need to be readily accessible and highly responsive to business processes leading to pharmaceutical distribution and supply chain channels becoming increasingly complex. A solution must be quickly derived to handling Track-and-Trace and Serialization information with no disruption in day-to-day business functions of the organisationRequest to Sample of Report-Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market Key Market PlayersSome of the Track-and-Trace and Serialization Market key market players are TraceLink, Infosys, Bosch Packaging, SAP, Axway and Xyntec Inc.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.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:4K TV Global Market: Production, Capacity Utilization Rate, Ex-Factory Price, Revenue, Cost, Gross and Gross Margin Analysis

4K TV Global Market

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HTF MI published a new industry research that focuses on 4K TV market and delivers in-depth market analysis and future prospects of Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) market. The study covers significant data which makes the research document a handy resource for managers, analysts, industry experts and other key people get ready-to-access and self-analyzed study along with graphs and tables to help understand market trends, drivers and market challenges. The study is segmented by Application/ end users [Global 4K TV Market: Regional Segment Analysis, USA, Europe, Japan, China, India, South East Asia, The Players mentioned in our report, Samsung, SONY, LG, Panasonic, Toshiba, Seiki, Christie, NEC, Epson, Sharp, InnoLux, Hisense, TCL, Changhong, Konka, Skyworth, Element Electronics Corp., Sceptre, THTF Gobal, Sanyo & VIZIO], products type [By Screen size] and various important geographies like Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy, Spain & Benelux].Get Access to sample pages @The research covers the current market size of the Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) market and its growth rates based on 5 year history data along with company profile of key players/manufacturers. The in-depth information by segments of 4K TV market helps monitor future profitability & to make critical decisions for growth. The information on trends and developments, focuses on markets and materials, capacities, technologies, CAPEX cycle and the changing structure of the Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) Market.The study provides company profiling, product picture and specifications, sales, market share and contact information of key manufacturers of Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) Market, some of them listed here are Samsung, SONY, LG, Panasonic, Toshiba, Seiki, Christie, NEC, Epson, Sharp, InnoLux, Hisense, TCL, Changhong, Konka, Skyworth, Element Electronics Corp., Sceptre, THTF Gobal, Sanyo & VIZIO]. The market is growing at a very rapid pace and with rise in technological innovation, competition and M&A activities in the industry many local and regional vendors are offering specific application products for varied end-users. The new manufacturer entrants in the market are finding it hard to compete with the international vendors based on quality, reliability, and innovations in technology.Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) (Thousands Units) and Revenue (Million USD) Market Split by Product Type such as By Screen size. Further the research study is segmented by Application such as Global 4K TV Market: Regional Segment Analysis, USA, Europe, Japan, China, India, South East Asia, The Players mentioned in our report, Samsung, SONY, LG, Panasonic, Toshiba, Seiki, Christie, NEC, Epson, Sharp, InnoLux, Hisense, TCL, Changhong, Konka, Skyworth, Element Electronics Corp., Sceptre, THTF Gobal, Sanyo & VIZIO with historical and projected market share and compounded annual growth rate.Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share and growth rate of , , Japan, , South East Asia and etc) in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), covering Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy, Spain & Benelux and its Share (%) and CAGR for the forecasted period 2017 to 2022.Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @Following would be the Chapters to display the Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc) market.Chapter 1, to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of 4K TV), Applications of 4K TV), Market Segment by Regions;Chapter 2, to analyze the Manufacturing Cost Structure, Raw Material and Suppliers, Manufacturing Process, Industry Chain Structure;Chapter 3, to display the Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of 4K TV), Capacity and Commercial Production Date, Manufacturing Plants Distribution, R&D Status and Technology Source, Raw Materials Sources Analysis;Chapter 4, to show the Overall Market Analysis, Capacity Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Analysis (Company Segment), Sales Price Analysis (Company Segment);Chapter 5 and 6, to show the Regional Market Analysis that includes Germany, France, UK, Russia, Italy, Spain & Benelux, 4K TV) Segment Market Analysis (by Type);Chapter 7 and 8, to analyze the 4K TV) Segment Market Analysis (by Application) Major Manufacturers Analysis of 4K TV);Chapter 9, Market Trend Analysis, Regional Market Trend, Market Trend by Product Type [], Market Trend by Application [Global 4K TV Market: Regional Segment Analysis, USA, Europe, Japan, China, India, South East Asia, The Players mentioned in our report, Samsung, SONY, LG, Panasonic, Toshiba, Seiki, Christie, NEC, Epson, Sharp, InnoLux, Hisense, TCL, Changhong, Konka, Skyworth, Element Electronics Corp., Sceptre, THTF Gobal, Sanyo & VIZIO];Chapter 10, Regional Marketing Type Analysis, International Trade Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis;Chapter 11, to analyze the Consumers Analysis of Europe, China, Japan, India, South East Asia and etc);Chapter 12,13, 14 and 15, to describe 4K TV) sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source.Check for discount @What this Research Study Offers:4K TV Market share assessments for the regional and country level segmentsMarket share analysis of the top industry playersStrategic recommendations for the new entrantsMarket forecasts for a minimum of 5 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional marketsMarket Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimationsCompetitive landscaping mapping the key common trendsCompany profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developmentsSupply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancementsBuy this research report @Reasons for Buying this ReportThis report provides pin-point analysis for changing competitive dynamicsIt provides a forward looking perspective on different factors driving or restraining market growthIt provides a six-year forecast assessed on the basis of how the market is predicted to growIt helps in understanding the key product segments and their futureIt provides pin point analysis of changing competition dynamics and keeps you ahead of competitorsIt helps in making informed business decisions by having complete insights of market and by making in-depth analysis of market segmentsThanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia.HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the Accurate Forecast in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their Goals & Objectives.Contact Us:HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private LimitedUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road, Edison, NJ USA - 08837sales@htfmarketreport.comPh: +1 (206) 317 1218Radar Simulator Market Expected to Dominate Worldwide by 2025

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Radar simulator market is on upward scale, owing to increase in adaptation of modern technologies for the training purpose in commercial and military aircrafts & ships. Radar simulator is either software solution or combination of both software and hardware. Radar simulators emulate various radars and initiate their working to provide users with an artificial and apt environment for radar training and functional/system testing. The software solutions can be installed in any computer with minimum required configuration and hardware solution is come with installed software which are utilized in the control room of aircraft, ship and ground base radar stations.The hardware segment consist of antenna, transmitters, receiver, waveform generator and micro controller, among others. The demand of radar simulator is increasing due to increase in budget of military and high concern about the safety and security. Radar simulator basically utilized for the purpose of training to train the commercial aircraft and ship pilots and commanders & officers of military. Some organizations that are using radar simulator are military, the British Royal navy, U.S coast guard and police units throughout the U.S and Britain. Radar simulator display the intuitive graphical controls for its operation and for scenario creation as well as simulate radar video and target.Request Sample Report@Growing demand of radar simulator in military for the training with the emergence or modern warfare systems and also the necessity to check and test the radar system is one of the prominent driver for the growth of the radar simulator market. Radar simulator simulates the variety of functions that are found in modern marine radar such as control over traffic density, waterways, sea state and weather conditions. This factor is expected to accelerate the growth of radar simulator market in the upcoming years. Some factor that provide highly realistic environmental features during training such as True and Relative Motion Displays, Target Data Display, Roll and Pitch Effects, Set and Drift Effects, among others are the important factor that boosted the growth of radar simulator market. Radar simulator can be used in various application such as for airborne application radar simulator is used for training the fighter pilots and radar operators. For Marine and ground application this is used for training centers for training electronic warfare personnel. These factor are responsible for the growth of said market.Nowadays, commercial aircrafts and ships are also utilizing radar simulator for security & safety and also for the purpose of training the pilots and operators of the ships and aircrafts. This factor will become the driver in the future. However, the high cost of installation and limited use in developed countries is consider to be as a restraint for the growth of radar simulator market in the forecast period.The Radar Simulator Market in North America region is expected to grow with healthy pace, owing to presence of prominent manufacturers in the region and adaptation of advanced technology by military aircraft and marine forces. The countries in Asia Pacific are progressively increasing their military budget for the safety, security and training purposes. This factor in turn contribute a significant growth for radar simulator market in the upcoming years. Moreover, Commercial aircraft carriers also uses this technology for enhance the training of their pilots. Europe and other regions are also projected to grow with moderate rate in the upcoming years.The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application, and industry.Download and View Report TOC, Figures and Tables @The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.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:GxP Cloud Compliant Market Predicted to Grow at a Moderate Pace Through 2017 - 2025

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GxP Cloud Compliant Market OverviewGxP is a term used to refer to any good practice quality regulations and guidelines. The x can be substituted for many fields like pharmacy, the food industry and even the Information technology industry while GP stands for good practices. The main purpose of these guidelines is to ensure that the product is safe and meets its stated purpose of use. The most important aspects of GxP are the ability to reconstruct development history of a medical device or drug i.e. traceability and the ability to resolve each individuals contribution to the development of a product or service i.e. accountability. With all the crucial data of companies and individuals moving to the cloud in the 21st century, the GxP Cloud Compliant Market is gaining increasing importance.Request to Sample of Report-One can scarcely imagine the consequences if confidential cloud data gets hacked, stolen or even replicated without consent. Companies could fall into trouble during security audits if they cannot provide evidence of a validated and secure IT infrastructure. This is particularly true for highly regulated fields like food, medical devices, drugs and cosmetics. Inaccurate or incomplete data can have devastating effects on customer safety and lost or incomplete data can seriously harm the organisation goodwill and financial stability. The GxP Cloud Compliant Market helps ensure that critical cloud data is accurately stored, easily accessible and consistently modifiable.GxP Cloud Compliant Market RestraintsDespite the many advantages of cloud computing, there are still numerous restraints in the GxP Cloud Compliant Market. Some of them are Risk aversion towards computerized compliance  Industries like pharmacy or the food industry are very risk averse when it comes to computer systems and compliance requirements. They might hesitate in adopting cloud technology in their organisation entirely. This mind-set must be overcome if they wish to progress and evolve with the changing times.Specific quality or compliance requirements  The life science industry is just one example of an industry with very specific quality or compliance requirements. The GxP Cloud Compliant Market is meant to cater to the broadest possible set of customers which makes it very industry agnostic. The lack of catering to individual client or industry specific compliance needs could hamper the growth of the overall market.Ownership related concerns Cloud services are usually outsourced to a third party provider. However, the responsibility of ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies lies not with them but the customer. In addition, the customer might not be able to control certain aspects of the cloud even though they still need to make sure that due diligence has been taken and the risk of lack of control is brought down to the minimally accepted level.Privacy issues  The most critical concern of the GxP Cloud Compliant Market is that of privacy issues. Since the cloud is managed by an outside party, companies with confidential or highly critical data may not wish to take advantage of this technology. There have been several cases of cloud hacking which has made them extremely wary about it.Request Report for TOC @GxP Cloud Compliant Market Key Market PlayersSome of the GxP Cloud Compliant Market key market players are ByteGrid, Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, IBM Watson Health Cloud, Verizon Terremark, OPERION, Adobe Document Cloud, and Aurea (NextDocs).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.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:3D Radar Market to Witness Growth Acceleration During 2017 - 2025

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3D Radar is an integral part of any defense inventory and this technology is used for detecting & tracking the insights and information. The 3D Radar provides a complete subsurface detection system which is utilizing a combination of COTS (commercial off the shelf) GPR components and custom software to accomplish robust metallic and non-metallic object detection performance. The 3D Radar determine the elevation, range and velocity of the object. These radar have some features such as automatic detection of airborne targets and operate 24/7 under all weather conditions, among others. These radar are utilized in some applications such as gap filler to main air defense radar system, for protection of sensitive sites and for local air defense C3 system, among others.The market of 3D Radar is anticipated to grow, owing to increasing use of modern warfare techniques by the defense system. Increasing deployment of the ballistic missiles and various defense system are the factor that boost the growth of 3D Radar market in the upcoming years. Increasing number of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is one of the prominent driver that accelerate the growth of 3D Radar market. Moreover, UAVs are operated by radio signals and nowadays these UAVs are used for detecting of moving objects such as tanks, chopper and aircrafts with the help of 3D radar.Request Sample Report@This has resulted in the procurement of UAVs for military operations, which in turn, propel the demand of 3D radar in the said market. Rapid technological development has led to the replacement of the conventional radar system with 3D radar system which in turn increases the demand of 3D radar in the market. The manufacturers are making efforts to develop specialized airborne 3D radar for airborne applications that enables easy data collection of fast changing terrain such as snow slopes and active volcanoes. This factor is another important driver for the 3D radar market.High installation cost and skilled expertise is required for operating and maintaining the system are some challenges that can hinder the growth of 3D radar market in the forecast period.In current scenario, airborne 3D radar is deployed in both military and civil aircrafts that is utilized for the purpose of detecting another aircraft without requiring visual contact during condition of reduced visibility. This factor will become the driver for the said market in the future.The Global 3D Radar Market can be segmented into five geographical regions such as North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa. The 3D Radar Market in North America region is expected to grow with healthy pace, owing to increase demand for different types of radar that are utilized in surveillance activities. Additionally, the defense force of U.S adapted the advance 3D radar which in turn, boosted the growth of the market in the region. The countries in Asia Pacific are progressively increasing their defense budget for the safety & security and also replacing the legacy radar system with 3D radar. This factor in turn contribute a significant growth for 3D radar market in the upcoming years. Moreover, Commercial aircraft carriers also uses this technology for enhance the security and for weather forecast. Europe and other regions are also projected to grow with moderate rate in the upcoming years.Download and View Report TOC, Figures and Tables @The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data, and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application, and industry.The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.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:Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market Predicted to Grow at a Moderate Pace Through 2017 - 2025

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Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market OverviewThe customer is always right is the oldest slogan taught to every marketing person, manager and prospective student. In reality, what the customer wanted (or thought they wanted) was decided not by them but the company corporate headquarters. This was the situation for several decades but not anymore. Customers today are well-informed, educated, and know exactly what they want. Higher customer expectations and rising awareness has led to the formation of the Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market. While many retailers are making great strides in customer-centric marketing and customer service, merchandising has not progressed as much.Request to Sample of Report-Gradually, retail has evolved from buying products and negotiating costs to deciding where products should be located in the stores and on which shelf. This then progressed into category management where the category manager was delegated responsibility to set prices and plan promotions. A further evolution of category management was adding customer insights into it to help decide pricing and promotion policies. True customer-centric merchandising in the Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market doesnt attempt to impose customer insights onto traditional category management. Instead, it completely redesigns the process by allowing customer tastes to drive management decisions, which in turn helps to achieve sales targets rather than hinder them.Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market DriversIn order to gain new customers and retain existing ones, retail companies are paying serious attention to the Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market. The two key drivers of the market are Rising customer expectation- The customer is truly the king today and they have become even more demanding than before. Due to a proliferation of smartphones, mobile Internet and e-commerce, customers are fully aware of a product availability, its price across different retailers, and upcoming trends. They are also able to shop whenever and wherever they wish to with multiple options available at their disposal. A retailer must, therefore, make their presence felt across various channels like mobile Apps, physical stores, websites, and social media and provide a consistent and user-friendly experience across each. Customers might even expect a personalised experience according to their own likes, preferences or favoured trends.Less brand loyalty- Millennial customers, in particular, are adept at channel hopping, i.e. they look up products in a physical store, read its reviews and then compare both online and offline prices before settling in on the best deal. Brand loyalty is reducing in developed countries and almost non-existent in developing ones, especially in fast-changing industries like fashion and electronics. Consumers are both technologically and product savvy along with having fickle tastes. Having the flexibility of payment options is also a major USP for some retailers. In order to attract and retain this demographic, retailers must manage operations across various channels and understand consumer buying behaviour. This will directly lead to greater sales volume, increased profitability, stronger brands and loyal lifelong customers.Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market RestraintsCustomer centricity is thinking and acting in such a way that individual customer preferences drive all business functions and decisions. However, there are still a few challenges in the Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market likeLower barriers to entry  Most companies have access to the same customers and computing resources in our digital data-driven age. Thus, new competitors can easily enter the market and threaten incumbent players. Apple and Google entering the financial payments industry from the technology one is a great example of this potential disruption.All communication channels matter- While online data is vital, retailers must also go deep to understand customer behaviour including product usage, CRM etc. Customer-centric companies need to effectively use these channels to get information about customer tastes, needs and preferences and communicate effectively with them.Difficulty in maintaining loyalty- According to the Harvard Business Review, reduction in customers defecting to other brands by as less as 5 percentage points can double company profits. However, this is easier said than done in an era where a customer can buy a competitor product within one smartphone tap.Request Report for TOC @Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market Key RegionsChina has become the worlds largest retail market this year, making the largest Customer-Centric Merchandising & Marketing Market too. Mobile accounts more than half of all e-commerce purchases in the country making it very important for long-term growth.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.Contact UsPersistence Market Research305 Broadway7th Floor, New York City,NY 10007, United States,USA  Canada Toll Free: 800-961-0353Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb:Expansion of Hydrogenated Palm Oil Market to Remain Consistent During 2017 - 2027

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Global Hydrogenated Palm Oil Market: IntroductionPalm oil is obtained from the soft pulp of the fruit of the palm tree (Elaeis guineensis). Palm oil is subjected to a hydrogenation process to obtain hydrogenated palm oil. To obtain properties similar to those offered by palm oil, the food industry introduced the hydrogenation process. Hydrogenation is the process of bonding a hydrogen atom with the double bonds of fatty acid chains. Hydrogenation turns oil from a liquid into a solid or semi-solid substance and makes the oil more stable. Hydrogenated palm oil is solid at room temperature and whitish in appearance. Hydrogenated palm oil finds applications in food, personal care and cosmetics, chemical and livestock industries. Hydrogenated fats prevent rancidity, which gives the product longer shelf life. Hydrogenated palm oils are fully hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated. Fully hydrogenated palm oil has lesser artificial trans-fats than partially hydrogenated oils. Both fully and partially hydrogenated palm oils are extremely customizable for a variety of manufacturing applications.Global Hydrogenated Palm Oil Market: DynamicsThe key driver for the hydrogenated palm oil market is the food industry. Fat hydrogenation increases the shelf life of foods since hydrogenated fats are more stable than unsaturated fats. As the shelf life of food items has become of prime importance these days in the food and packaging sector owing to the stringent regulations directed at safeguarding health risks and product quality. This will promote the use of hydrogenated fats, such as hydrogenated palm oils, which in turn, will drive the global hydrogenated palm oil market throughout the forecast period. In addition to this, expanding applications of palm oils in edible and non-edible sectors is projected to create opportunity paths for the hydrogenated palm oil market globally. Rising demand for palm oil from oleochemicals is another factor expected to drive the hydrogenated palm oil market.The hydrogenated palm oil market will see more opportunities with the growing use of palm oil ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products. However, the ban on trans-fat foods will directly affect the consumption of hydrogenated palm oil in this industry. This might act as a restraining factor for the hydrogenated palm oil market. Palm oil has been facing tough competition from other oils, which might be a major threat to the hydrogenated palm oil market. Soybean oils have been showing reliable growth, which in turn, might create sluggish demand for hydrogenated palm oil, in turn, decreasing its market growth. Environmental concerns related to palm oil plantation and land availability are other factors hampering the growth of hydrogenated palm oil.A sample of this report is available upon request @Research and development is a key part of the hydrogenated palm oil market. Manufacturing companies, end product manufacturers and associations have been infusing high investments to facilitate technology modifications and future advancement of hydrogenated palm oil, which in turn, will lead to palm oil finding more applications areas in cosmetics and food industry, thereby, creating opportunities for the hydrogenated palm oil market throughout the forecast period.The most recent trend followed in the hydrogenated palm oil market is that manufacturers are coming up with improved production technology. Regulatory and structural restrictions along with increasing market penetration are projected to act as a barrier for the growth of the hydrogenated palm oil market, through improved production technology and increase in application areas are anticipated to fade the effect of these restrictions.Global Hydrogenated Palm Oil Market: SegmentationOn the basis of type, the global hydrogenated palm oil market can be segmented into:Fully hydrogenated palm oilPartially hydrogenated palm oilOn the basis of end-users, the global hydrogenated palm oil market can be segmented into:Cosmetics and detergent industryFood IndustryChemical IndustryLivestock IndustryOthersGlobal Hydrogenated Palm Oil Market: Region-wise OutlookGrowing demand for vegetable oil as a feedstock for biodiesel production is fueling the demand for hydrogenated palm oil globally. With respect to region, strict regulations against genetically modified (GM) food products in the European Union will drive the demand for hydrogenated palm oil. In North America, the U.S. ban on trans-fat foods is anticipated to drive the rapid shift in consumption from soybean oil to palm oil, thereby creating opportunities for the hydrogenated palm oil market. Given the strong government focus on the increasing shelf life of prepared foods, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to dominate the hydrogenated palm oil market. The growth in palm oil plantation activity in Indonesia, Malaysia and Philippines to manufacture various cosmetic and personal care products from hydrogenated palm oil is projected to further fuel demand into the hydrogenated palm oil market in the region.To view TOC of this report is available upon request @Global Hydrogenated Palm Oil Market: Key PlayersSome of the key players identified across the value chain of the global hydrogenated palm oil market are Wilmar International Ltd, Golden Agri-Resources Ltd, Mewah Group, IOI Loders Croklaan, Sarawak Oil Palms Berhad Group Of Companies, Mectech Process Engineers Pvt. Ltd, Konti, Kavya International and Sime Darby Hudson & Knight, among others.ABOUT US:Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.CONTACT:Abhishek BudholiyaFuture Market Insights616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:Global Mustard Seed Market - Industry Snapshots and Statistics 2018

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IndexBox has just published a new report "World: Mustard Seed - Market Report. Analysis And Forecast To 2025" ().This report covers a detailed survey of the global mustard seed market. Within it, you will identify the latest data on market trends and opportunities by country, consumption, production and price developments, as well as the global trade (imports and exports). The outlook presents the market prospects through 2025.Countries coverage: Worldwide - the report contains statistical data for 200 countries and includes detailed profiles of the 50 largest consuming countries (United States, China, Japan, Germany, United Kingdom, France, Brazil, Italy, Russian Federation, India, Canada, Australia, Republic of Korea, Spain, Mexico, Indonesia, Netherlands, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Sweden, Nigeria, Poland, Belgium, Argentina, Norway, Austria, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Colombia, Denmark, South Africa, Malaysia, Israel, Singapore, Egypt, Philippines, Finland, Chile, Ireland, Pakistan, Greece, Portugal, Kazakhstan, Algeria, Czech Republic, Qatar, Peru, Romania, Vietnam) + the largest producing countries.Product coverage:Mustard SeedData coverage: Mustard seed market volume and value; Per Capita consumption; Forecast of the market dynamics in the medium term; Global mustard seed production, split by region and country; Global mustard seed trade (exports and imports); Producer, export and import prices for mustard seed; Mustard seed market trends, drivers and restraints; Key market players and their profiles.Reasons to buy this report: Take advantage of the latest data; Find deeper insights into current market developments; Discover vital success factors affecting the market.AbstractGlobal mustard seed production amounted to 766 thousand tonnes in 2015, rising by +12.3% against the previous year level. Overall, the global mustard seed output pursued a pronounced growth from 2007 to 2015. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticable fluctuations throughout the analyzed period. The total output figures increased at an average annual rate of +8.2%. The growth pace was the most rapid in 2009, when the output figure increased by +33% from the previous year level. Over the period under review, the global mustard seed production attained its maximum volume of 766 thousand tonnes in 2013. From 2014 to 2015, the total mustard seed output growth failed to regain its strength.Over the analyzed period, an increase in global mustard seed production was primarily driven by popularity of healthy eating and production of medical care and personal care goods. Furthermore, these key drivers are expected to continue promoting the mustard seed output in the immediate term. This general positive trend was largely conditioned by a robust expansion of the harvested area and solid gains of the yield figures.The world mustard seed harvested area amounted to 893 thousand ha in 2015, which was 9.9% more than the previous year figure. The harvested area indicated a noticeable increase over the period under review, representing a compound annual growth rate of +5.0% from 2007 to 2015. This trend pattern, however, indicated some mild fluctuations over the recent years. Over the period under review, the total mustard seed harvested area peaked in 2015, and is likely to continue its expansion in the immediate term, following rising demand for mustard seed globally.The global average mustard seed yield amounted to 9 thousand hg/ha in 2015, rising by 2.2% from the previous year figure. The yield figures recorded an upward trend over the period under review, with a compound annual growth rate standing at +3.0% from 2007 to 2015. These yield figures maintained, all in all, a stable trend pattern throughout the analyzed period. The highest mustard seed yields were recorded in 2015. Albeit an intensification of modern agricultural technics use, the future yield figures subject to a substantional risk of adverse weather conditions.Source:IndexBox is a leading market research publisher in the world. You can find more than 25,000 research reports in our web store, which cover global industries and regional markets. All the worldwide marketing data you need is at your fingertips.Company Name: IndexBoxContact Person: Kirill BezverhiEmail: kirill.bezverhi@indexbox.co.ukPhone: +44 20 3239 3063Adress: United Kingdom, 44 Main Street, Douglas, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, ML11 0QWGlobal Tomato Market - Research on Economic Outlooks, Analysis and Forecasts to 2025

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http://www.indexbox.co.uk/store/world-tomato-market-report-analysis-and-forecast-to-2020?utm_source=opr

IndexBox has just published a new report "World: Tomato - Market Report. Analysis And Forecast To 2025" ().This report provides a detailed analysis of the global tomato market. Within it, you will find out the latest data on market trends and opportunities by country, consumption, production and price developments, as well as the global trade (imports and exports). The forecast reveals the market perspectives through 2025.Countries coverage: Worldwide - the report contains statistical data for 200 countries and includes detailed profiles of the 50 largest consuming countries (United States, China, Japan, Germany, United Kingdom, France, Brazil, Italy, Russian Federation, India, Canada, Australia, Republic of Korea, Spain, Mexico, Indonesia, Netherlands, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Sweden, Nigeria, Poland, Belgium, Argentina, Norway, Austria, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Colombia, Denmark, South Africa, Malaysia, Israel, Singapore, Egypt, Philippines, Finland, Chile, Ireland, Pakistan, Greece, Portugal, Kazakhstan, Algeria, Czech Republic, Qatar, Peru, Romania, Vietnam) + the largest producing countries.Product coverage:TomatoData coverage: Tomato market volume and value; Per Capita consumption; Forecast of the market dynamics in the medium term; Global tomato production, split by region and country; Global tomato trade (exports and imports); Producer, export and import prices for tomato; Tomato market trends, drivers and restraints; Key market players and their profiles.Reasons to buy this report: Take advantage of the latest data; Find deeper insights into current market developments; Discover vital success factors affecting the market.AbstractGlobal tomato market revenue amounted to 189,229 million USD in 2015, waning by -5.4% against the previous year level. Overall, global tomato market continues to indicate a noticeable growth: the market value increased at an average annual rate of +3.2% from 2007 to 2015. This trend pattern, however, indicated some noticable fluctuations throughout the analyzed period. The growth pace was the most rapid in 2008, when the market revenue increased by +8% from the previous year level. Over the period under review, the global tomato market attained its maximum revenue of 200,014 million USD in 2014. From 2015 to the end of the period under review, the total tomato market revenue failed to regain its former peak level.Over the analyzed period, an increase in global tomato production was primarily driven by population growth. Furthermore, these key drivers are expected to continue promoting the tomato output in the immediate term. This general positive trend was largely conditioned by a robust expansion of the harvested area and a moderate improvement of the yield figures.The country with the largest volume of the tomato output in absolute volumes was China (55,083 thousand tonnes), accounting for 32% of global production. Moreover, tomato output in China exceeded the figures recorded by the world's second largest producer, India (18,622 thousand tonnes), threefold. The third position in this ranking was occupied by the United States with a share of 8%. From 2007 to 2015, an average annual growth rate of China's tomato producton stood at +5.4%. The remaining producing countries recorded the following average annual growth rates: India (+8.0% per year) and the United States (+0.5% per year).The world tomato harvested area amounted to 5,106 thousand ha in 2015, which was almost equal to the previous year figure. The harvested area indicated a noticeable increase over the period under review, representing a compound annual growth rate of +2.1% from 2007 to 2015. This trend pattern, however, indicated some mild fluctuations over the recent years. Over the period under review, the total tomato harvested area peaked in 2015, and is likely to continue its expansion in the immediate term, following rising demand for tomato globally.The global average tomato yield amounted to 342 thousand hg/ha in 2015, rising by 1.3% from the previous year figure. The yield figures recorded an upward trend over the period under review, with a compound annual growth rate standing at +0.9% from 2007 to 2015. These yield figures maintained, all in all, a stable trend pattern throughout the analyzed period. The highest tomato yields were recorded in 2015. Albeit an intensification of modern agricultural technics use, the future yield figures subject to a substantional risk of adverse weather conditions.Source:IndexBox is a leading market research publisher in the world. You can find more than 25,000 research reports in our web store, which cover global industries and regional markets. All the worldwide marketing data you need is at your fingertips.Company Name: IndexBoxContact Person: Kirill BezverhiEmail: kirill.bezverhi@indexbox.co.ukPhone: +44 20 3239 3063Adress: United Kingdom, 44 Main Street, Douglas, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, ML11 0QWSunny Sky Solar Offers Green Energy Products and Services to the Market

https://www.sunnyskysolar.com.au/

Sunny Sky Solar offer their clients quality solar power systems and related products and services. Located in Brisbane, their clientele is based in and around Queensland and its environs, and the company has grown by leaps and bounds since its entry into the market. The systems on offer are combined with installation services from experienced professionals with excellent certifications in this endeavor. A variety of reputable brands can be found in their stock including LG, ABB, GCL, Canadian Solar, and SMA just to name a few.Speaking about the diversity of their products and services, the Head of Sales and Marketing said, "We maintain a large number of items in our stockpile to ensure that a client never lacks any commodity they might be searching for regarding their green energy needs. Our long list of brands is combined with a variety of goods including solar panels, batteries, and invertors, as well as a number of packages that consist of a complete unit ready for implementation. Buyers can also choose to design a personal combination of products to create a more bespoke package that will meet their particular needs."Clients looking for the best solar deals in the market can browse through the cost-effective rates that have been availed by the company on their website. This pricing is designed to ensure that buyers can purchase a solar power system without having to strain their budget to try and meet unrealistic goals. There are also a number of rebates from the government that can be enjoyed by individuals who purchase these units, and such information is available for free on the organization's online platform for any interested parties. These incentives can go a long way in helping an owner pay for the incorporation of green energy into their homes.Discussing the various qualifications of the company, the Head of Operations said, "Our years of experience and quality products have led to the recognition of the company's work by a variety of established associations in the solar energy field. We are members of some reputable unions related to green energy including the Australian Solar Council, Solar Citizens, and the Clean Energy Council. Joining these prestigious affiliates is neither an easy task nor something that can be achieved without adhering to the strict guidelines and policies that govern the promotion of viable solar powered solutions and practices."Buyers seeking the best solar inverters can contact the organization with any queries they might have about the product or related issues. The company offers a free quote to anyone interested in their commodities, and their solar systems are carefully inspected after installation to ensure that everything is in good working order. The organization's solutions are provided in the shortest time possible and can have a huge positive impact on a user's electricity bill in the long run.About Sunny Sky SolarSunny Sky Solar offer green energy products and services to the Queensland market. Their solutions are suitable for both commercial and residential purposes.Sunny Sky SolarLevel 23, 127 Creek Street,Brisbane, QLD 4000Telephone Number: 1800801347Email: info@sunnyskysolar.com.auWebsite:Quick and standard professional head shots

http://www.jaheadshots.com/

Chicago, Illinois- United States, January 27, 2018 --- The first impression is a best impression. It is a common proverb. Your headshots speak a lot when you apply for a job. Opt for affordable headshots and increases the probability of getting placed in a reputed firm. Update your LinkedIn profile with higher standards and present a professional headshot to increases your success rate. JA headshots comprise of well trained headshot photographers that are trained in The Natural Shot Method. The technical expert team in the firm works on the photographs to enhance the overall appearance of the headshots.JA headshots have worked with 500 fortune companies to improve their reputation in the online mode. Professional headshot photographers are highly capable to take team snapshots in the working ambiance at faster rate. These photographs help to explore different business opportunities in the online mode.These affordable headshots improve career opportunities and build a reliable professional relationship. The foremost goal of JA headshot is to make the person feel comfortable in front of the camera without any hesitations. They want to capture the better side to give an insight related to professionalism. Bringing out the best appearance seems to be the greatest challenge for professionals and JA headshots delivers. It is a photography sessions exclusively for business and business related factors.JA headshots provide the valuable customers with free strategy session to know more about their works in detail. Instead of wasting your valuable time just enroll with this free strategy session and learn more about their professionalism in photography with one of our image consultants. The image consultant from JA headshots presents you with the insight about professional photography. Get convinced before placing your order with JA headshots.If you have a look at the official website of JA headshots you will be able to witness extraordinary reviews from individuals and organizations illustrating about their outstanding photography sessions. JA headshots serve as a better platform for professional photography to increase the business and individuals career opportunities in the online mode. Visitfor additional information.About the company:JA headshot is one of the most reputed firms in the country which provide professional photography. Get flawless photography from JA headshots with the help of our professional headshots photographers. Make use of this affordable headshot and increases the visibility of your profile in LinkedIn. JA headshot comprises of experienced photographers to bring out the best in you. The friendly photographers make the customers to feel comfortable throughout the photo shoot session. Reach out for best career opportunities with the help of professional photographs from JA headshots.Contact :JA Headshots212 N Sangamon St, Apt 4B,Chicago, IL 60607312-690-5652hello@jaheadshots.comEndoscope Reprocessing Market worth 2.15 Billion USD by 2022

Endoscope Reprocessing Market

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/endoscope-reprocessing-market-219094994.html

The report "Endoscope Reprocessing Market by Product (High-level Disinfectants & Test Strips, Detergents & Wipes, Automated Endoscope Reprocessors, Endoscope Tracking Systems, Brushes), End User (Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgery Centers) - Global Forecast to 2022"The global endoscope reprocessing market is expected to reach USD 2.15 Billion by 2022 from an estimated USD 1.42 Billion in 2017, at a CAGR of 8.6%. Factors such as high risk of infections associated with improper sterilization of endoscopes, increasing investments, funds, and grants by government bodies across the globe, rising number of hospitals and growing hospital investments in endoscopy instruments, and rising prevalence of diseases that require endoscopy procedures are driving the growth of the endoscope reprocessing market during the forecast period.Browse 65 Market Data Tables and 27 Figures spread through 155 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Endoscope Reprocessing Market by Product (High-level Disinfectants & Test Strips, Detergents & Wipes, Automated Endoscope Reprocessors, Endoscope Tracking Systems, Brushes), End User (Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgery Centers) - Global Forecast to 2022"Early buyers will receive 10% customization on reports.Automated Endoscope Reprocessors (AERs) to account for the largest share of the endoscope reprocessing market in 2017On the basis of products, the market is segmented into high-level disinfectants and test strips; detergents and wipes; endoscope tracking systems; endoscope drying, storage, and transport systems; automated endoscope reprocessors (AERs); and other products (brushes and flushing aids, leak testers, hookups, and sponges). The high-level disinfectants and test strips segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global endoscope reprocessing market in 2017. The large share of this segment is attributed to the increasing outbreaks linked to inadequate cleaning or disinfecting during HLD, the effectiveness of high-level disinfectants for quality assurance in decontaminating endoscopes, and rising adherence to endoscope reprocessing guidelines by healthcare centers.Hospitals segment expected to account for the largest share of the market in 2017On the basis of end user, the endoscope reprocessing market has been segmented into hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and other end users (diagnostic centers, mobile endoscopy facilities, and office endoscopy centers). In 2017, the hospitals segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global endoscope reprocessing market. The ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) segment, on the other hand, is expected to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period. The high growth in this segment can be attributed to the increase in the number of endoscopic procedures performed in ASCs, and rising preference of ASCs over hospitals.North America dominated the market in 2017North America accounted for the largest share of the endoscope reprocessing market in 2017, followed by Europe. In the US, the endoscope reprocessing market is driven by the favorable reimbursement scenario, rising incidence of cancer, increasing investments by hospitals to purchase new endoscopic equipment, and increasing incidence of endoscope-related infections. In Canada, the growth of the endoscope reprocessing market is driven by the availability of physician bonuses, and implementation of a new funding model for Canadian hospitals.The various players in the endoscope reprocessing market include Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP) (US), Cantel Medical (US), Laboratories Anios (France), Olympus (Japan), Wassenburg Medical (The Netherlands), Custom Ultrasonics (US), STERIS (US), Steelco (Italy), Getinge (Sweden), ENDO-TECHNIK (Germany), BES Decon (UK), ARC Healthcare Solutions (Canada), and Metrex Research (US) among others.About MarketsandMarketsMarketsandMarkets provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies revenues. Currently servicing 5000 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets for their painpoints around revenues decisions.Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model  GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.MarketsandMarketss flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "RT" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets.Contact:Mr. RohanMarketsandMarkets INC.630 Dundee RoadSuite 430Northbrook, IL 60062USA : 1-888-600-6441sales@marketsandmarkets.comComputerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market: Size, Growth, Outlook Regional, Type, Key Applications, Opportunity Analysis and Forecast 2018 - 2023

Research N Reports

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The report, titled "Computerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market Report" offers an unmistakable comprehension of the subject matter. The demand for this software in the market is increasing substantially due to the growing awareness among individuals regarding the latest technological advancements and innovations. The study has been aggregated by gathering data from reliable sources, by leading various meetings with top industry specialists, and by consulting different press releases, white papers, and databases.Top Key Vendors:IBM, Maintenance Connection, Infor, eMaint, Hippo, FasTrak, Fiix, MPulse, Limble, MVP Plant, EPAC Software, NEXGEN, AssetPoint, MicroMain, MAPCON, CHAMPS Software, eWorkOrders, UpKeep, Schneider Electric, AxxerionGet Sample Copy of this Report:According to the research report, the Computerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market has been witnessing a phenomenal rise in its size and valuation. The research study helps in presenting answers to several questions associated with the global market. The report presents reliable forecasts pertaining to the expected size of the global market over the forecast period, the key products, applications, or regional segments that are expected to dominate the global market in the near future, and an overview of the key trends observed in the recent past.The research study helps in understanding the several factors driving the Computerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market. The executive summary of the global market provides a snapshot, which comprises overall data regarding different segments and sub-segments. The past performance and future projections of the global market have been presented in the report with the help of graphs, info graphics, tables, and charts.The report Computerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market provides a framework for the technical data and manufacturing data. Additionally adding to the investigation, the study likewise details the limit, revenue, generation, and development of the major territorial markets. The study gives a top-to-bottom synopsis of the different sorts of displaying methods, expressing their cost of production and development prospects.Get more Information about this Report:The analysis of the development cost structure of the Computerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market has been performed in view of key aspects, for example, industry chain structure, development process and their providers. Technology is being looked after for both in the engineering procedure and in terms of product features. The market is dynamic in nature and this is rousing testing prerequisites and moreover, the advancement of superior hardware, advancing the development prospects of the market.The report examines the causes leading to of the change in the market and the increase in demand. It portrays the thorough research on market patterns, segmentation, market figures, regional shares, and procedures for the development in Computerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market. The report also provides with the drivers, restraints and the opportunities available for the firms willing to invest in the market. It analyses the past, current, and upcoming trends and provides with the detailed report. This in-depth assessment of the growth drivers, obstacles, and the key market trends assists the participants in understanding the difficulties they may face while operating in this market over the coming years.Table of Content:Computerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market Research Report 2018-2023Chapter 1 Computerized Maintenance Management System Software In Healthcare Market OverviewChapter 2 Global Economic ImpactChapter 3 Competition by ManufacturerChapter 4 Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2018-2023)Chapter 5 Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2018-2023)Chapter 6 Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by TypeChapter 7 Analysis by ApplicationChapter 8 Manufacturing Cost AnalysisChapter 9 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream BuyersChapter 10 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/TradersChapter 11 Market Effect Factors AnalysisChapter 12 Market Forecast (2018-2023)Chapter 13 AppendixResearch N Reports is a new age market research firm where we focus on providing information that can be effectively applied. Today being a consumer driven market, companies require information to deal with the complex and dynamic world of choices. Where relying on a sound board firm for your decisions becomes crucial. Research N Reports specializes in industry analysis, market forecasts and as a result getting quality reports covering all verticals, whether be it gaining perspective on current market conditions or being ahead in the cut throat global competition. Since we excel at business research to help businesses grow, we also offer consulting as an extended arm to our services which only helps us gain more insight into current trends and problems. Consequently we keep evolving as an all-rounder provider of viable information under one roof.10916, Gold Point, Dr, Houston, TX - 77064Internet of Things (IoT) Security Market, By Component, Security Type, Application - Global Industry Insights, Trends, Outlook, 2017-2025

https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ongoing-insight/toc/1117

https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ongoing-insight/internet-of-things-iot-security-market-1117

http://www.coherentchronicle.com

Internet of Things (IoT) is an ecosystem of connected physical objects that are accessible through the Internet. Internet of Things (IoT) involves creation of smart communication environment between smart homes, smart transportation, and smart healthcare systems with the help of several devices in a network that enables transmission of data within these devices such as WSN (Wireless Sensor Network), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), cloud services, NFC (Near Field Communication), gateways, data storage & analytics, and visualization elements. Moreover, embedded software, hardware devices, IT services, and communication services are interconnected with IoT for monitoring, detecting, prevention of unauthorized access, and managing numerous interrelated devices, efficiently.Internet of Things security is used to protect and secure the network connecting IoT devices to back-end systems on the internet. Key features include traditional endpoint security such as antivirus and antimalware along with firewalls and interruption prevention and detection systems. IoT security authenticate an IoT device by managing multiple users of a single device platform, for example a connected car. Moreover it is ranging from simple static password or pins to more robust authentication mechanisms such as two-factor authentication, digital certificates and biometrics.Request Table of Content of this Report :Advancement in technologies and increasing use of 2G, 3G, and 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) wireless networks have in turn also made these networks increasingly susceptibility to cyber-attacks. These cellular networks enables connectivity and communications to exchange real time information, data, and online transactions among others, which is prominent target for cyber-attacks. For the security and flexibility of these online communication IoT security solution plays a major role. According to Coherent Market Insights analysis, in 2016, over 88% of the U.S. population had access to the Internet, which is around 280 million of the U.S. population. Smart home solutions aid in remotely accessing devices at home including security systems. Therefore, it is important to have IoT security solutions in order to enhance security.Increasing smart city initiatives, globally, is also another factor expected to fuel market growth. For instance, in 2015, Government of India launched "100 Smart Cities Mission". Some of the important elements in smart city initiatives involve digitalization and deploying Wi-Fi hotspots at various locations. Public Wi-Fi network do not provide security and use shared passwords. Hence, this facility is prone to cyber-attacks. Therefore, IoT security helps to enhance the security through a unique technology called User Pre-Shared Key (UPSK) for every devices within the network to ensure device security. Such features of IoT security are expected to fuel growth of the global IoT market.North America accounted largest for the market share in the IoT security market in 2016. This is owing to increasing adoption of IoT in a single smart interface of smartphones, PCs, and tablets and rising cybercrimes are expected to be major factors for fuelling demand for integrated IoT security solutions in various sectors such as government, defense and healthcare. For instance, in May 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack affected number of computers from Taiwan to the U.K. and the U.S. These are some major factors expected to boost the regional IoT security market growth.Major players operating in the global IoT security market are AT&T, Inc., Gemalto NV, Infineon Technologies, International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), Cisco Systems, Inc., Check Point Security Software Technologies Ltd., Verizon Enterprise Solutions, Symantec Corporation., PTC Inc., and Digicert.For More Information :About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.comVisit our news Website:North America Stem Cell Services market is growing at a fair pace and is estimated to reach $XX billion with a CAGR of XX% during 2018-2024

https://www.envisioninteligence.com/industry-report/north-america-stemcell-services-market/

https://www.envisioninteligence.com/industry-report/global-genetic-testing-system-market/

https://www.envisioninteligence.com/industry-report/global-biobanks-market/

www.envisioninteligence.com

The report "North America Stem Cell Services Market," the North America Stem Cell Services market is expected to reach USD XX Billion by the year 2024, at a CAGR of XX% during forecast period. The North America stem cell services market is rising due to the demand for organs, development in organ transplantation procedures and research on human tissues. Stem cells are unspecialized cells that can develop into different types of cells which can be of same or different at the earlier stages of life and therapies helps to prevent diseases like bone marrow transplantation.Reasons To Buy This ReportThis report contains the in-depth analysis on the market and the estimations are done using volume and value data are further validated on three approaches including bottom-up, top-down and from top companies revenues to conclude the market estimations precisely and accurately considering all the parameters and market dynamics.Download Free Sample Brochure atKey pointers in the report include: Competitive landscape & market analysis is included in the report to understand the key companies position and Porter's Analysis & PESTLE analysis to perform to analyze the impact of drivers, restraints, challenges and constraints on the market during the next five years. Team of analysts have analyzed and listed out the key drivers, constraints, challenges and emerging opportunities in all the industry verticals which will specify the emerging scope for the market in end user industries. Industry value chain analysis is provided in the report to identify the key stakeholders and prominent players at each stage of the company along with the value addition at each stage of the value chain. Complete analysis including global and regional trends, technological developments, and new product innovations are included in the report specific to each and every segment of the market. A complete 360 degree analysis is provided in the report on key companies product portfolio, business portfolio, developmental strategies, and key developments from the companies in the historical period. Advanced customizations on countries, specific applications in end user industries, product based customizations will be provided based on the request. All the collected data is further validated and verified using surveys, interviews and interactions with industrial experts.North America Stem Cell Services Market Top Players Athersys NsGene CellGenix GmbH BIOTIME, INC. Advanced Cell Technology Novocell Neuralstem, Inc. Kite PharmaRelated Reports:Global Genetic Testing System Market:Global Biobanks Market:About usEnvision Inteligence is the Main Supplier of Market Analysis Reviews, Customized Consulting Companies, Information Analytics and Trade Evaluation. Our purpose is to offer the correct data required by the stakeholder on the proper level of time, in a format which assists an clever and knowledgeable resolution making course of!Contact UsSales Team,Sales@envisioninteligence.comCall:+1 408-963-0099Web:North America Drug Discovery Informatics Market is projected to grow with a brisk CAGR of XX% during 2018-2024 owing to the increasing applications in Healthcare end user industries

https://www.envisioninteligence.com/industry-report/north-america-drug-discovery-informatics-market/

https://www.envisioninteligence.com/industry-report/global-patient-engagement-solution-market/

https://www.envisioninteligence.com/industry-report/point-of-care-diagnostic-market/

www.envisioninteligence.com

The report "North America Drug Discovery Informatics market," the North America Drug Discovery Informatics market is expected to reach USD XX Million by the year 2024, at a CAGR of XX% during forecast period. The Key factors that drive the growth of the market include the rising R&D expenditure, the increasing focus on drug discovery, need to control the drug discovery and the development costs, high throughput screening methods and So On. Drug discovery is the process through which new medicines are identified. In the past, most of the drugs have been discovered by identifying the active ingredient from the traditional remedies.Reasons To Buy This ReportThis report contains the in-depth analysis on the market and the estimations are done using volume and value data are further validated on three approaches including bottom-up, top-down and from top companies revenues to conclude the market estimations precisely and accurately considering all the parameters and market dynamics.Download Free Sample Brochure atKey pointers in the report include: Competitive landscape & market analysis is included in the report to understand the key companies position and Porter's Analysis & PESTLE analysis to perform to analyze the impact of drivers, restraints, challenges and constraints on the market during the next five years. Team of analysts have analyzed and listed out the key drivers, constraints, challenges and emerging opportunities in all the industry verticals which will specify the emerging scope for the market in end user industries. Industry value chain analysis is provided in the report to identify the key stakeholders and prominent players at each stage of the company along with the value addition at each stage of the value chain. Complete analysis including global and regional trends, technological developments, and new product innovations are included in the report specific to each and every segment of the market. A complete 360 degree analysis is provided in the report on key companies product portfolio, business portfolio, developmental strategies, and key developments from the companies in the historical period. Advanced customizations on countries, specific applications in end user industries, product based customizations will be provided based on the request. All the collected data is further validated and verified using surveys, interviews and interactions with industrial experts.North America drug discovery informatics market Top Players Collaborative drug discovery GVK Biosciences Drug Development Informatics Selvita Charles River Laboratories Certara Pharma Open Eye Scientific Software Cortellis Informatics InfosysRelated Reports:Global Patient Engagement Solution Market:Point-of-care Diagnostic Market:About usEnvision Inteligence is the Main Supplier of Market Analysis Reviews, Customized Consulting Companies, Information Analytics and Trade Evaluation. Our purpose is to offer the correct data required by the stakeholder on the proper level of time, in a format which assists an clever and knowledgeable resolution making course of!Contact UsSales TeamSales@envisioninteligence.com,Call:+1 408-963-0099Web:Hadoop and Big Data Analytics Market, By Solution, Service, End User, and Region - Global Industry Insights, Trends, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2017-2025

https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ongoing-insight/toc/1118

https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ongoing-insight/hadoop-and-big-data-analytics-market-1118

http://www.coherentchronicle.com

Hadoop is a Java-based programming structure that is used for processing and storage of large data sets in a distributed computing environment. It is a distributed processing technology that provides expansive data storage facility and handles thousands of terabytes of data and rapid data transfer among nodes. Hadoop is extensively used in big data analytics, including scientific analytics, business and sales development, and enormous volumes of data processing.Among end users, the banking, finance and insurance segment is expected to lead the hadoop and big data analytics market during the forecast period (2017  2025). The banking and finance sector has witnessed rapid growth, primarily due to increasing adoption of information technology solutions for improved banking services. The proliferation of online transactions, is increasing adoption towards technologies such as National Electronic Fund Transfer (NEFT), Real-time Gross Settlement Systems (RTGS), Electronic Clearing Service (ECS) as well as mobile transactions. Transactions through such technology, however, are hacking targets for cybercriminals. Furthermore, websites and mobile applications that accept online purchases and transactions, which store details regarding credit cards, debit cards, and bank account are also prominent hacking targets. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), during 2015-2016, 16,468 cyber terrorism associated with ATM, debit card, credit card, and net banking frauds were reported. Whereas, 13,083 frauds were reported in 2014-2015 and 9,500 in 2013-14. This indicates the increasing number of cyber frauds over the years, which in turn is expected to augment the demand for Hadoop and Big Data Analytics solutions in the banking and finance industry.Request Table of Content of this Report :However, non-uniformity of data sets is expected to restraint the growth opportunity of global digital marketing software market. Additionally lack of proper Hadoop platform due to shortage of skilled workforces that can transform machine language to operational solutions for data warehousing, is another major restraining factor that is expected to reduce growth rate of the market.North America holds a dominant position in the market and is expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period. Dominance of this region is attributed to the rampant development of IT infrastructure and high presence of major IT companies such as Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Oracle in the region.Asia Pacific is projected to observe rapid growth over the forecast period, owing to rapid industrialization and urbanization. For instance, Government of India has launched the smart city mission for city renovation and retrofitting program to develop 100 cities across the country to make them more resident friendly and highly maintainable. Such initiatives are expected to create opportunities for growth of the market over the forecast period.Key market players operating in the hadoop and big data analytics market include Microsoft Corporation, Amazon Web Services (AWS), IBM Corporation, Teradata Corporation, Tableau Software, Inc., Cloudera, Inc., Pentaho Corporation, Marklogic Corporation, SAP SE, and Pivotal Software, Inc.For More Information :About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.comVisit our news Website:Global Wood Processing Market 2018 Key Players: Weyerhaeuser Company, West Fraser Timber Co Ltd, Canfor Corporation, Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget, Interfor Corporation.

Wood Processing Market

https://www.wiseguyreports.com/sample-request/2947557-wood-processing-global-market-report-2018-including-sawmills-wood-preservation

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Wood Processing Market:WiseGuyReports.com adds Wood Processing Market 2018 Global Analysis, Growth, Trends and Opportunities Research Report Forecasting to 2023reports to its database.Executive SummaryWood Processing Market Global Report 2018 from The Business Research Company provides the strategists, marketers and senior management with the critical information they need to assess the global wood processing market.Where is the largest and fastest growing market for the wood processing?How does the market relate to the overall economy, demography and other similar markets?What forces will shape the market going forward?The wood processing market global report from the Business Research Company answers all these questions and many more.The report covers market characteristics, size and growth, segmentation, regional and country breakdowns, competitive landscape, market shares, trends and strategies for this market. It traces the markets historic and forecast market growth by geography. It places the market within the context of the wider Paper, Plastics, Rubber, Wood and Textile Manufacturing market, and compares it with other markets. The market characteristics section of the report defines and explains the market. The market size section gives the market size ($b) covering both the historic growth of the market and forecasting the future. Drivers and restraints looks at the external factors supporting and controlling the growth of the market. Market segmentations break down market into sub markets. The regional and country breakdowns section gives an analysis of the market in each geography and the size of the market by geography and compares their historic and forecast growth. It covers all the regions, key developed countries and major emerging markets. It draws comparisons with country populations and economies to understand the importance of the market by country and how this is changing. Competitive landscape gives a description of the competitive nature of the market, market shares, and a description of the leading companies. Key financial deals which have shaped the market in recent years are identified. The trends and strategies section highlights the likely future developments in the market and suggests approaches companies can take to exploit this. The wood processing market section of the report gives context. It compares the wood processing market with other segments of the Paper, Plastics, Rubber, Wood and Textile Manufacturing market by size and growth, historic and forecast. It analyses Expenditure Per Capita, The Wood Processing Indicators Comparison.Request Sample Report @ScopeMarkets Covered: Sawmills; Wood PreservationCompanies Mentioned: Weyerhaeuser Company, West Fraser Timber Co Ltd, Canfor Corporation, Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget, Interfor CorporationCountries: Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Spain, Russia, UK, USA and Australia.Regions: Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East And AfricaTime series: Five years historic and forecast.Data: Ratios of market size and growth to related markets, GDP, Expenditure Per Capita, The Wood Processing Indicators Comparison.Data segmentations: country and regional historic and forecast data, market share of competitors, market segments.Sourcing and Referencing: Data and analysis throughout the report is sourced using end notes.Table of Content:1. Wood Processing Market Characteristics2. Wood Processing Market Size And Growth3. Wood Processing Trends And Strategies;4. Pestle Analysis5. Wood Processing Market Customer Information;6. Wood Processing Market Regional And Country Analysis7. Wood Processing Market Segmentation8. Wood Processing Market Segments9. Global Wood Processing Market Comparison With Macro Economic Factors10. Wood Processing Market Comparison With Macro Economic Factors Across Countries11. Asia-Pacific Wood Processing Market12. Western Europe Wood Processing Market13. Eastern Europe Wood Processing Market14. North America Wood Processing Market15. South America Wood Processing Market16. Middle East Wood Processing Market17. Africa Wood Processing Market18. Wood Processing Market Competitive Landscape18.1. Company Profiles18.2. Weyerhaeuser Company18.2.1. Overview18.2.2. Products And Services18.2.3. Strategy18.2.4. Financial Performance18.3. West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd.18.3.1. Overview18.3.2. Products And Services18.3.3. Strategy18.3.4. Financial Performance18.4. Canfor Corporation18.4.1. Overview18.4.2. Products And Services18.4.3. Strategy18.4.4. Financial Performance18.5. Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget18.5.1. Overview18.5.2. Products And Services18.5.3. Strategy18.5.4. Financial Performance18.6. Interfor Corporation18.6.1. Overview18.6.2. Products And Services18.6.3. Strategy18.6.4. Financial Performance19. Key Mergers And Acquisitions In The Wood Processing Market20. Market Background: Wood Products Manufacturing Market21. AppendixReasons to Purchase Outperform competitors using accurate up to date demand-side dynamics information. Identify growth segments for investment. Facilitate decision making on the basis of historic and forecast data and the drivers and restraints on the market. Create regional and country strategies on the basis of local data and analysis. Stay abreast of the latest customer and market research findings Benchmark performance against key competitors. Develop strategies based on likely future developments. Utilize the relationships between key data sets for superior strategizing. Suitable for supporting your internal and external presentations with reliable high quality data and analysis Gain a global perspective on the development of the market. Report will be updated with the latest data and delivered to you within 3-5 working days of order.ContinuousFor further information on this report, visit Contact Us:Norah Trentsales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US); +44 208 133 9349 (UK)Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone :+91 841 198 5042Tri-ethylene Glycol (TEG) Market - Detailed Study Analysis and Forecast by 2023

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Infinium Global Research has added a new report on Global Tri-ethylene Glycol Market: Trends Analysis and Forecast 2023. The report presents analysis global as well as regional markets of Tri-ethylene Glycol over the period of 2015 to 2023. Moreover, the IGR-Growth Matrix given in the report provides key focus areas and investment areas the market players can focus on. The market size is presented in terms of value for the historic year 2015 and estimated for forecast period of 2017 to 2023.The global Tri-ethylene Glycol market was dominated by the Asia Pacific region followed by the North American and Middle East Tri-ethylene Glycol market. On the basis of countries, the U.S., China, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and India led the global Tri-ethylene Glycol market. The growing demand for Tri-ethylene Glycol in the solvents, polyurethanes and humectants application has played a major role in driving the Tri-ethylene Glycol market across the globe. Similarly factors such as rapid industrialization leading to an increase in investments, new establishments for oil & gas exploration activities and properties of Tri-ethylene Glycol such as odourless and hygroscopic are some of the important factors responsible for the growth of the global Tri-ethylene Glycol market.Get Free Sample Copy of Report Here:Furthermore, growing natural gas production and increasing demand for plasticizers are considered to be the key factor driving the global tri-ethylene glycol market over the forecast period. Furthermore, increasing use of tri-ethylene glycol to produce variety of products for industrial and commercial use such as solvents, adhesives & coatings, lubricants, polyurethane foams, emulsifiers and thermoplastics are also driving the global tri-ethylene glycol market significantly. Moreover, growing use of tri-ethylene glycol due its hygroscopic nature in air conditioning systems and dehydration of natural gas will also drive the tri-ethylene glycol market globally over the forecast period.Tri-ethylene Glycol is used for the applications such as natural gas dehydration, solvents, plasticizers, polyurethanes, humectants, polyester resins and others. The report identifies the largest application for which Tri-ethylene Glycol is used. Among the geographies Asia Pacific is expected to be the largest market for the Tri-ethylene Glycol market over the Forecast period from 2017 to 2023. The report covers the analysis of global as well as regional markets of the Tri-ethylene Glycol market.Ask for Discount:Moreover the report provides deep insights on demand forecasts, market trends and micro and macro indicators. In addition, this report provides insights on the factors that are driving and restraining the demand globally as well as regionally. Moreover, Infinium Global Research- Growth Matrix (IGR- Growth Matrix) given in the report brings an insight on the investment areas that existing or new market players can consider.The report provides insights into the market using analytical tools such as Porters five forces analysis and value chain analysis of Tri-ethylene Glycol. Moreover, the study highlights current market trends and provides forecast from 2017 to 2023. We also have highlighted future trends in the Tri-ethylene Glycol that will impact the demand during the forecast period.Browse Research Report:The Infinium Global Research- Growth Matrix (IGR- Growth Matrix) provided in this report highlights key investing markets in the world. Moreover, the competitive analysis given in each regional market brings an insight on the market share of the leading players. Additionally, the analysis highlights rise and fall in the market shares of the key players in the market. This report will help manufacturers, suppliers and distributors to understand the present and future trends in this market and formulate their strategies accordingly.The companies covered in the report include SABIC, Reliance Industries Ltd, LyondellBasell, Eastman Chemicals, ExxonMobil, The Dow Chemical Company, Sinopec, China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation, Clariant, INEOS Group Ltd, Royal Dutch Shell, BASF, Huntsman Corporation, Indorama Venture and Formosa Plastics.About UsInfinium Global Research and Consulting Solutions is started with a single motto of being business partner of first choice. We at Infinium work on the strengths of our clients to ensure we help them consolidate their market position. We firmly believe in the fact that if you are able to develop newer opportunities then you find there is no dearth of opportunities for you. With our strategic research approaches and deep dive in the market segments, we try to find out new opportunities that our clients can encash with their existing resources. Our experts with over 100 years of cumulative experience in research offer the best in the industry services to our clients to ensure that they achieve their business goals.Contact UsInfinium Global Research,Toll Free:U.S. + Canada: 1-800-638-0796,Website :Email: sales@infiniumglobalresearch.comSilicon Powder Market Trend to 2023 Ferroglobe, Elkem(Blue Star), Erdos Metallurgy, Linyuan Micro-Silica Fume, WINITOOR

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Market Study Report adds Global Silicon Powder Market By Manufacturers, Countries, Type And Application, Forecast To 2023 report to its research database. The report spread across 106 pages with table and figures in it.Silica fume, also known as micro silica, is an ultrafine powder collected as a by-product of the silicon and ferrosilicon alloy production. Silica fume is an ultrafine material with spherical particles less than ?m in diameter, the average being about 0.15 ?m. So it also called the ultrafine silica fume.Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Silicon Powder market, especially in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa. This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, regions, types and applications.Request a sample copy of Silicon Powder Market Research Report @Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers Ferroglobe, Elkem(Blue Star), Erdos Metallurgy, Linyuan Micro-Silica Fume, WINITOOR, All Minmetal International, East Lansing Technology, Wuhan Mewreach, Dow Corning, Finnfjord, Lixinyuan Microsilica, QingHai WuTong, Blue Star, Sichuan Langtian, RW Silicium GmbH, Wacker, CCMA, Fesil, Washington Mills, Jinyi Silicon Materials, Renhe, Elkon Products, Simcoa Operations, OFZ a.s, Minasligas.An inherent sub-vertical of the Chemicals and Advanced Materials industry space, Silicon Powder market stands to gain remarkable proceeds over 2018-2023, as per a recently compiled report Market Segment by Regions, regional analysis covers:North America (United States, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)Market Segment by Table of Contents:Global Silicon Powder Market OverviewGlobal Silicon Powder Market Manufacturers ProfilesGlobal Silicon Powder Market Competition, by ManufacturerGlobal Silicon Powder Market Analysis by RegionsGlobal Silicon Powder by CountriesGlobal Silicon Powder Market Segment by TypeGlobal Silicon Powder Market Segment by ApplicationSilicon Powder Market Forecast (2018-2023)Sales Channel, Distributors, Traders and DealersResearch Findings and ConclusionAppendixMarket Segment by Type, covers Densified Silica FumeSemi Densified Silica FumeUndensified Silica FumeMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided into ConcreteRefractoryOthersEnquire For Discount on Silicon Powder Market Research Report @There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the global Silicon Powder market.Chapter 1, to describe Silicon Powder Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Silicon Powder, with sales, revenue, and price of Silicon Powder, in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 4, to show the global market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Silicon Powder, for each region, from 2013 to 2018;Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions;Chapter 10 and 11, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2013 to 2018;Chapter 12, Silicon Powder market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2018 to 2023;Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Silicon Powder sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data sourceFor More Info on Market Research @Related Reports: -Global Labelling Market by Manufacturers, Countries, Type and Application, Forecast to 2023A label is a tool to identify or decorate goods. A label can distinct a product from others, and note the information of the product, or attract customers. Label appeared in 1700s in Europe. Nowadays.Centralize market research purchases across your entire organization in one place.Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Market Study ReportThe Green Suite #4594,Dover, DE 19901United StatesPhone: 1-201-355-0868US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:News:Connect with us: Google+ | LinkedIn | TwitterFuture of Sulphur Recovery Market Size 2023 Jacobs Engineering Group, Chiyoda Corporation, Amec Foster Wheeler, Technip FMC

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Market Study Report adds Global Sulphur Recovery Market By Manufacturers, Countries, Type And Application, Forecast To 2023 report to its research database. The report spread across 106 pages with table and figures in it.Sulphur recovery is defined as the conversion of hydrogen sulfide to elemental sulphur. Hydrogen sulfide is one of the major by-products of processing high sulphur crude oils and natural gas. Increasing focus on regulations to reduce levels of sulphur in products and lower sulphur emissions has in turn resulted in increase in demand for deployment of sulphur recovery technologies. Sulphur recovery technologies are mainly based on two processes: Claus and Claus Process and Tail Gas Treatment process.Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Sulphur Recovery market, especially in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa. This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, regions, types and applications.Request a sample copy of Sulphur Recovery Market Research Report @Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers Jacobs Engineering Group, Chiyoda Corporation, Amec Foster Wheeler, Technip FMC, Worley Parsons Ltd, Linde AG, Fluor Corporation, KT-Kinetics Technology SpA, GTC Technology US, Heurtey Petrochem, CB&I, Sunway Petrochemical Engineering.An inherent sub-vertical of the Chemicals and Advanced Materials industry space, Sulphur Recovery market stands to gain remarkable proceeds over 2018-2023, as per a recently compiled report Market Segment by Regions, regional analysis covers:North America (United States, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)Market Segment by Table of Contents:Global Sulphur Recovery Market OverviewGlobal Sulphur Recovery Market Manufacturers ProfilesGlobal Sulphur Recovery Market Competition, by ManufacturerGlobal Sulphur Recovery Market Analysis by RegionsGlobal Sulphur Recovery by CountriesGlobal Sulphur Recovery Market Segment by TypeGlobal Sulphur Recovery Market Segment by ApplicationSulphur Recovery Market Forecast (2018-2023)Sales Channel, Distributors, Traders and DealersResearch Findings and ConclusionAppendixMarket Segment by Type, covers Claus ProcessClaus Process and Tail Gas TreatmentMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided into Petroleum and CokeNatural GasOthersEnquire For Discount on Sulphur Recovery Market Research Report @There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the global Sulphur Recovery market.Chapter 1, to describe Sulphur Recovery Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Sulphur Recovery, with sales, revenue, and price of Sulphur Recovery, in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 4, to show the global market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Sulphur Recovery, for each region, from 2013 to 2018;Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions;Chapter 10 and 11, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2013 to 2018;Chapter 12, Sulphur Recovery market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2018 to 2023;Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Sulphur Recovery sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data sourceFor More Info on Market Research @Related Reports: -Global (North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa) Silicon Wafer Market 2018 Forecast to 2023This report studies the Silicon Wafer market. Semiconductor silicon wafers are key component of integrated circuits such as those used to power computers, cell phones, and a wide variety of other devices. A silicon wafer consists of a thin slice of s...Centralize market research purchases across your entire organization in one place.Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Market Study ReportThe Green Suite #4594,Dover, DE 19901United StatesPhone: 1-201-355-0868US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:News:Connect with us: Google+ | LinkedIn | TwitterMosquito Control Market - Global Trends, Market Share, Industry Size, Growth, Opportunities and Market Forecast - 2018  2026

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MOSQUITO CONTROL Market: Global Industry Trends, Market Size, Competitive Analysis and Forecast - 2018  2026, this study is recently published by Research Corridor covering global market size for MOSQUITO CONTROL market for the key segments and further cross-regional segmentation of these segments for the period 2018 to 2026.According to Research Corridor this study will provide in-depth analysis of segments on the basis of current trends, market dynamics and country level analysis of MOSQUITO CONTROL industry. This report provides market estimates and forecast for the period 2016-2026, along with respective CAGRs for each segment and regional distribution for the period 2018-2026. In depth analysis of competitive landscape, porters five forces model, value chain analysis, and pricing strategies are also covered in the report scope.Browse For The Full Report:Report Synopsis: MOSQUITO CONTROL MarketThis report provides an exhaustive market analysis of the MOSQUITO CONTROL industry presented through sections such as1. MOSQUITO CONTROL: Market Summary2. Key Developments in the MOSQUITO CONTROL Industry3. Market Trends and Dynamics of MOSQUITO CONTROL Industry4. Attractive Investment Proposition for MOSQUITO CONTROL Market5. Competitive Landscape of Key Market Players in MOSQUITO CONTROL Industry6. Current Market Scenario and Future Prospects of the MOSQUITO CONTROL Market7. Mergers and Acquisitions in MOSQUITO CONTROL Market8. MOSQUITO CONTROL Market Revenue and Forecast, by Segment A Type, 2016 to 20269. MOSQUITO CONTROL Market Revenue and Forecast, by Segment B Type, 2016 to 202610. MOSQUITO CONTROL Market Revenue and Forecast, by Segment C Type, 2016 to 202611. MOSQUITO CONTROL Market Revenue and Forecast, by Segment D, 2016 to 202612. MOSQUITO CONTROL Market Revenue and Forecast, by Geography, 2016 to 2026Browse For The Full Report:Key Takeaways:1. Market size and forecast of the MOSQUITO CONTROL market for the period from 2016 to 20262. Compounded annual growth rate (CAGR%) for each segment in several regional markets by year 20263. Market share analysis combined with competitive landscape of key players4. Profiles of key market players covering overall business operations, geographic presence, product portfolio, financial status and news coverageRelated ReportsAbout Research CorridorResearch Corridor provides End to End Solution for Market Research Consulting and Custom Research Reports. Database of Over 47000 Global Market Reports Research Corridor is world leading company in syndicated market Research Reports.For More Information, Visit Research CorridorMedia ContactCompany Name: Research CorridorContact Person: VikramEmail: sales@researchcorridor.comDigital Door Lock System Market- Global Industry Insights,20172025

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Digital door lock system market refers to the electronic operated physical access systems that have found significant traction over the past decade owing to the increasing concerns for the safety and security of the personal, private, and organizational assets. Moreover, these system are excessively used in enterprises and other business activities to keep track of the information regarding the person entering or exiting working place.Request Table of Content of This Report:Low cost availability, installation ease of these security arrangements for edifices that need a reliable way of access monitoring & control are the prominent factors driving the industry growthDigital door lock systems are available in multiple options depending on the user security requirements include access based on passphrases, numeric code, passwords, security tokens, radio frequency identification devices (RFID), and different types of biometrics. Moreover, usage of smart phones as a means to gain entry is among the prominent solution gaining traction for residential and other end user applications, specifically in the developed economies of U.S. and Europe. Owing to availability of extensively ranged choices and the high level security offered by these solutions, digital door lock system market is expected to witness minimum CAGR of 30% over the forecast period.Increasing IoT and connectivity, proliferation of internet enabled devices that feature multi device support will continue to drive the industry growthGrowing industrialization, considerable development of operations and service units of enterprises across countries, and growing demand for security solutions in the residential sector are some of the prominent factors fueling the growth of digital door lock systems market. Incorporation of motion-activated camera, two-way audio communication, and -video surveillance, are some of the other features that have led to considerable increase in the growth of the digital door lock system market globally. These systems account for the largest share of the revenues predominantly owing to the large scale adoption of fingerprint sensors in the commercial and government end-use segments. This system can be programmed to provide access to any required number of individuals. Moreover, low ownership cost, easy availability, accurate information processing, and no requirement of additional objects to provide access will continue to drive the revenues.Europe dominated the global digital door lock system market size in terms of both volume and value in 2016.Europe held the largest industry share in 2016. This is owing to the high living standards, considerable demand in the residential segment for security purposes, and high adoption of technology of population in this region. Increased business activities, high urbanization rates, and high spending capacity of population in emerging economies of Asia Pacific is expected to present unprecedented demands in the region. China, India, South Korea, Pakistan, and Japan are expected to remain the prominent target countries of these solution providing participants. Increasing number of terrorist activities in these emerging nations in conjunction with a large number of infrastructure investment activities is expected to provide considerable demand for security in the government end use segment over the forecast period.Key Players operating in the Global Digital Door Lock System MarketKey players operating in the global digital door lock system market include ABB, Cisco Systems, Inc., Hanman International Pte Ltd., Nestwell Technologies, Allegion PLC, Godrej & Boyce Manufacturing Company Ltd., Hitachi Ltd., Panasonic Corporation, United Technologies Corporation, Assa Abloy Group, Wintec Electronic Tech Co. Ltd., Vivint, Inc., Xeeder Technology Co. Ltd., Tyco International Ltd., and Honeywell International Inc.For More Information :About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.comVisit Our New Website:Airborne Weapon Systems for Rotorcraft Market- Global Industry Insights,Analysis, 2017-2025

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A rotorcraft is a heavy airborne machine that works by generating lift caused by its wings, which are called rotary wings or rotor blades. Several rotor blades are fixed and rotate around the pole to generate the lifting force to overcome the gravity pull and the weight by generating the required uplift pressure and providing direction through forcing down the oncoming air.Request Table of Content of This Report:The major concern is that lots of air have to race across its wings to generate enough lift, which needs bulky wings to overcome the air force and fly fast. Also, it requires a long runway for takeoff and landing. The rotors are thin wings that spin around a shaft on the same spot and by that rotating force, it generates a huge downdraft of air lifting the helicopter upward. It helps to take off or land vertically and drift smoothly in any direction that is not available in a conventional plane.Military Rotorcraft:The global military rotorcraft market is expected to grow at significant CAGR over the forecast period (2017  2025), due to the requirement of replacement the old fleets and to enhance the operations.Governments across the world are more likely to get multi-functional helicopters, which includes ground attack, air assault, cargo, surveillance, rescue operations, humanitarian aid, and troop transport due to the cut in defense budget. The Ministry of Defense, Government of India, intends to procure approximately 123 Naval Multi-Role Helicopters along-with spare engines. Hence, the multi-mission and maritime helicopters segment is expected to account for major market share of the global rotorcraft market over the forecast period, followed by attack, transport, training, and survey helicopters.Civil Rotorcraft:Civil rotorcraft market was valued at US$7.8 Billion in 2016. Civil rotorcrafts offer vertical take-off and landing capabilities, which helps the helicopters to function in remote areas.Civil rotorcrafts market is anticipated to observe high growth rate during the forecast period (2017 -- 2025), due to increasing demand for travel, medical services, general service, and firefighting. Among the civil rotorcraft, light helicopter are expected to account major market share due to the continuing crisis in the oil and gas industry that may slower the use of large and heavy helicopters.Global Airborne Weapon Systems for Rotorcraft Market Outlook - Asia Pacific Holds Significant Market ShareAsia Pacific region is expected to account for the largest market share of global rotorcraft market by 2025, due to new trends and technologies in the rotorcraft industry, cutting-edge solutions, and increase in Chinese defense expenditure, followed by North America and Europe.According to Coherent Market Insights analysis, North America and Europe are expected to account around 39% and 27% share of global market by 2025. New helicopter deliveries in Asia Pacific region is also expected to rise during the same time to over 34%.Increasing aggressiveness of China regarding territorial clashes with its neighbor countries and strong economic growth are the primary factors driving the growth of the rotorcraft market. Beijing has revealed a homegrown battle chopper that is said to be the most powerful and able to destroy the most powerful tank in the world.'Black Hurricane' is single door, narrow body aircraft, and multiple rocket launcher, which could fire more than a dozen rockets at the same time. This aircraft is the most advanced helicopter and expected to perform air-to-ground strikes, air-to-ground fire, and air-to-air combat in any weather condition.The military helicopter has many rocket launcher and can carry four missiles at the same time. Additionally, pilot seat is protected with bullet-proof shield, which could block bullets from a 12.7mm machine gun.China's well-documented anti-satellite weapons tests have gained traction globally. It has forced the U.S Air Force to accelerate strategies for satellite protection, which includes improving sensor and cyber reinforcing command for the advancement in predictions for functionality in the event of an attack.Key Players in the Global Airborne Weapon Systems for Rotorcraft MarketThe Boeing Company, Bell Helicopters, Sikorsky, Leonardo-Finmeccanica, Changhe Aircraft Industries, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Airbus Defense and Space, Embraer, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Korean Aerospace Industries, Russian Helicopters, MD Helicopters, Turkish Aerospace Industries, Enstrom Helicopters, Rolls-Royce, and Helibras are some of the major players operating in the global airborne weapon systems for rotorcraft market.For More Information :About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.comVisit Our New Website:Perlite Market 2018 Global Key Players: Aegean Perlites SA, Bergama Perlite, Australian Perlite Pty Limited, Carolina Perlite Company, Supreme Perlite Company.

Perlite Market

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Perlite Market:WiseGuyReports.com adds Perlite Market 2018 Global Analysis, Growth, Trends and Opportunities Research Report Forecasting to 2023reports to its database.Executive SummaryPerlite Market Global Report 2018 from The Business Research Company provides the strategists, marketers and senior management with the critical information they need to assess the global perlite market.Where is the largest and fastest growing market for the perlite?How does the market relate to the overall economy, demography and other similar markets?What forces will shape the market going forward?The perlite market global report from the Business Research Company answers all these questions and many more.The report covers market characteristics, size and growth, segmentation, regional and country breakdowns, competitive landscape, market shares, trends and strategies for this market. It traces the markets historic and forecast market growth by geography. It places the market within the context of the wider Mining market, and compares it with other markets. The market characteristics section of the report defines and explains the market. The market size section gives the market size ($b) covering both the historic growth of the market and forecasting the future. Drivers and restraints looks at the external factors supporting and controlling the growth of the market. Market segmentations break down market into sub markets. The regional and country breakdowns section gives an analysis of the market in each geography and the size of the market by geography and compares their historic and forecast growth. It covers all the regions, key developed countries and major emerging markets. It draws comparisons with country populations and economies to understand the importance of the market by country and how this is changing. Competitive landscape gives a description of the competitive nature of the market, market shares, and a description of the leading companies. Key financial deals which have shaped the market in recent years are identified. The trends and strategies section highlights the likely future developments in the market and suggests approaches companies can take to exploit this. The perlite market section of the report gives context. It compares the perlite market with other segments of the Mining market by size and growth, historic and forecast. It analyses Expenditure Per Capita, The Perlite Indicators Comparison.Request Sample Report @ScopeMarkets Covered: Construction Products; Horticultural & Agricultural; Industrial; Filtration & Process Aid; OthersCompanies Mentioned: Aegean Perlites SA, Bergama Perlite, Australian Perlite Pty Limited, Carolina Perlite Company, Supreme Perlite CompanyCountries: Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Spain, Russia, UK, USA and Australia.Regions: Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East And AfricaTime series: Five years historic and forecast.Data: Ratios of market size and growth to related markets, GDP, Expenditure Per Capita, The Perlite Indicators Comparison.Data segmentations: country and regional historic and forecast data, market share of competitors, market segments.Sourcing and Referencing: Data and analysis throughout the report is sourced using end notes.Table of Content:1. Perlite Market Characteristics2. Perlite Market Size And Growth3. Perlite Trends And Strategies;4. Pestle Analysis5. Perlite Market Customer Information;6. Perlite Market Regional And Country Analysis7. Perlite Market Segmentation8. Perlite Market Segments9. Global Perlite Market Comparison With Macro Economic Factors10. Perlite Market Comparison With Macro Economic Factors Across Countries11. Asia-Pacific Perlite Market12. Western Europe Perlite Market13. Eastern Europe Perlite Market14. North America Perlite Market15. South America Perlite Market16. Middle East Perlite Market17. Africa Perlite Market18. Perlite Market Competitive Landscape18.1. Company Profiles18.2. Aegean Perlites SA18.2.1. Overview18.2.2. Products And Services18.2.3. Strategy18.2.4. Financial Performance18.3. Bergama Perlite18.3.1. Overview18.3.2. Products And Services18.3.3. Strategy18.3.4. Financial Performance18.4. Australian Perlite Pty Limited18.4.1. Overview18.4.2. Products And Services18.4.3. Strategy18.4.4. Financial Performance18.5. Carolina Perlite Company18.5.1. Overview18.5.2. Products And Services18.5.3. Strategy18.5.4. Financial Performance18.6. Supreme Perlite Company18.6.1. Overview18.6.2. Products And Services18.6.3. Strategy18.6.4. Financial Performance19. Key Mergers And Acquisitions In The Perlite Market20. Market Background: General Mineral Mining Market21. AppendixReasons to Purchase Outperform competitors using accurate up to date demand-side dynamics information. Identify growth segments for investment. Facilitate decision making on the basis of historic and forecast data and the drivers and restraints on the market. Create regional and country strategies on the basis of local data and analysis. Stay abreast of the latest customer and market research findings Benchmark performance against key competitors. Develop strategies based on likely future developments. Utilize the relationships between key data sets for superior strategizing. Suitable for supporting your internal and external presentations with reliable high quality data and analysis Gain a global perspective on the development of the market. Report will be updated with the latest data and delivered to you within 3-5 working days of order.ContinuousFor further information on this report, visit Contact Us:Norah Trentsales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US); +44 208 133 9349 (UK)Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone :+91 841 198 5042Solar Air Conditioning Market 2018 Global Analysis By Key Players  Solar Panels Plus LLC, Sedna Aire International, HotSpot Energy, Aussie Solar World, IceSolair

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WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On  Solar Air Conditioning Market 2018 Global Analysis By Key Players  Solar Panels Plus LLC, Sedna Aire International, HotSpot Energy, Aussie Solar World, IceSolair.Description:In this report, the global Solar Air Conditioning market is valued at USD XX million in 2017 and is expected to reach USD XX million by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of XX% between 2017 and 2025.Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Solar Air Conditioning in these regions, from 2013 to 2025 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGet a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comGlobal Solar Air Conditioning market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingSolar Panels Plus LLC (SPP)Sedna Aire InternationalHotSpot Energy LLCAussie Solar WorldIceSolairHarvestHaierGreeMideaOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoAbsorption RefrigerationSolar Vapor Compression RefrigerationOn the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate for each application, includingResidential BuildingCommercial BuildingIndustrial BuildingOthersReport Details @Table Of Contents  Major Key PointsGlobal Solar Air Conditioning Market Research Report 20181 Solar Air Conditioning Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Solar Air Conditioning1.2 Solar Air Conditioning Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Solar Air Conditioning Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2013-2025)1.2.2 Global Solar Air Conditioning Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20171.2.3 Absorption Refrigeration1.2.4 Solar Vapor Compression Refrigeration1.3 Global Solar Air Conditioning Segment by Application1.3.1 Solar Air Conditioning Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2013-2025)1.3.2 Residential Building1.3.3 Commercial Building1.3.4 Industrial Building1.3.5 Others1.4 Global Solar Air Conditioning Market by Region (2013-2025)1.4.1 Global Solar Air Conditioning Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2013-2025)1.4.2 North America Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Solar Air Conditioning (2013-2025)1.5.1 Global Solar Air Conditioning Revenue Status and Outlook (2013-2025)1.5.2 Global Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2013-2025).7 Global Solar Air Conditioning Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 Solar Panels Plus LLC (SPP)7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Solar Air Conditioning Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 Solar Panels Plus LLC (SPP) Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Sedna Aire International7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Solar Air Conditioning Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 Sedna Aire International Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 HotSpot Energy LLC7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Solar Air Conditioning Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 HotSpot Energy LLC Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Aussie Solar World7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.4.2 Solar Air Conditioning Product Category, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Product A7.4.2.2 Product B7.4.3 Aussie Solar World Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.5 IceSolair7.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.5.2 Solar Air Conditioning Product Category, Application and Specification7.5.2.1 Product A7.5.2.2 Product B7.5.3 IceSolair Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.6 Harvest7.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.6.2 Solar Air Conditioning Product Category, Application and Specification7.6.2.1 Product A7.6.2.2 Product B7.6.3 Harvest Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.7 Haier7.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.7.2 Solar Air Conditioning Product Category, Application and Specification7.7.2.1 Product A7.7.2.2 Product B7.7.3 Haier Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.8 Gree7.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.8.2 Solar Air Conditioning Product Category, Application and Specification7.8.2.1 Product A7.8.2.2 Product B7.8.3 Gree Solar Air Conditioning Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)ContinueFor more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.Dionysiou & Partners LLC wins Commercial Law award 2018 by International Advisory Experts (IAE) Publication

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Nicosia, CYPRUS, 12th February 2018  One of Cyprus leading corporate law firms, Dionysiou & Partners LLC, has recently earned the honourable International Advisory Expert (IAE) Award for Commercial Law in Cyprus.Founding partner and director of Dionysiou & Partners LLC, Soulla Dionysiou, who received the recognition, carries a strong professional and entrepreneurial background of over 15 years in the law practice industry and is a member of the Cyprus Bar Association. With proven skills in International Law, Corporate Law, Legal Advice, Commercial Litigation, and Due Diligence, Dionysiou earned her Bachelor of Laws LLB with a focus in Corporate as well as Commercial Law from the University of London.The awards, judged by a research team, IAE group members and an independent panel of leading legal specialists, are presented every year to companies on the basis of successful progress over the past 12 months alongside the praise received from peers during this time frame.Upon receiving the award, Dionysiou said:Its a great pleasure to see DP Law recognised for its innovative role in the international corporate market revolutionising international commercial law by taking on a personal approach with clients and associates alike and by embracing technology communications, enabled us to offer a unique service to clients by assisting them with their corporate business & legal endeavours.'For further information, please contact Soulla Dionysiou at Dionysiou & Partners LLC at sdionysiou@dplawcyprus.com or +357 22 272360 ~About Dionysiou & Partners LLC | DP Law CyprusFounded in 2015, Dionysiou & Partners LLC is a law firm based in Cyprus, offering its clients unprecedented quality of corporate legal services and comprehensive legal solutions in correlation with international regulatory and statutory requirements. Its primary focuses are domestic and international corporate services; corporate and commercial law; finance law; and high-level immigration matters.40 Vyzantiou Street, Office 101, CY2064, Nicosia, CyprusHealthcare IT Integration Market Insights into the Player are Carepoint Health, Oracle, AVI-SPL, Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Epic Systems Corporation| Growing at CAGR of 11.8% by 2024

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databridgemarketresearch.com added new title Global Healthcare IT Integration Market segmented By Type (Products (Integration Engines, Integration Software), Services (Installation Services, Maintenance Services, Training), By End User (Hospitals, Radiology Centers, Diagnostic Laboratories, Cath Labs, Clinics, Others), By Applications (Medical Device Integration, Healthcare Center Integration), By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Rest of the World)  Trends and Forecast to 2024Get a For Free Sample Report @:Global healthcare IT integration market is expected to reach USD 6.5 billion, growing at a CAGR of 11.8% during the forecast period of 2016 to 2024, from USD 2.68 billion in 2016. The new market report contains data for historic years 2014 & 2015, the base year of calculation is 2016 and the forecast period is 2017 to 2024.This Report Contains below details No of Pages: 350 No of Tables: 250 No of Figures: 50Top Manufactures: Care point Health, Oracle, AVI-SPL, Inc., All scripts Healthcare Solutions, Inc., Epic Systems Corporation, Qualcomm Life, Inc., Interfaceware, Inc., Orion Health, Quality Systems, Inc., Cerner Corporation, InterSystems Corporation, Infor, Inc., Orion Health, Summit Healthcare and Siemens Among otherRequest for Table of Content here@Global Healthcare IT Integration Market  Market Segmentation:The healthcare IT integration market is segmented based on type, services, end user, applications and geography. Based on type the market is segmented into products and services.The product segment includes integration engines or platforms and integration software. In 2015, the healthcare IT integration engines segment is dominant with approximately a market share of above 70% growing at the highest CAGR of 12.6% in the forecast period. The healthcare It integration services is further segmented into installation services, maintenance services and training services. The maintenance services segment commanded the largest share of 48.7% of the global healthcare IT integration market, by service, in 2015.Based on end-users the healthcare IT integration is segmented into hospitals, radiology centers, diagnostic laboratories, cath labs, clinics and, others. In 2016, hospitals is expected to be the largest end-user for healthcare IT integration products, owing to the large number of healthcare IT products installed in hospitals, the larger number of products more is the complexity and hence greater needs for integration.Based on applications the global healthcare IT integration market is segmented into medical device integration and healthcare center integration. In 2015, healthcare It integration leads the market, owing to the increasing number of users for healthcare IT products and increasing demand of Electronic Health Records (EHR) solutions in the market.Based on geography the market is segmented into 5 geographical regions, North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America and rest of the world. The geographical regions are further segmented into 24 major countries such as U.S. Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, U.K., Belgium, Switzerland, Belgium, Turkey, Japan, China, Singapore, Brazil, India, Russia, South Africa and many others.Purchase Full Report @About Data Bridge Market Research:Data Bridge Market Research set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process.Contact:Vishal DixitData Bridge Market ResearchTel: +1-888-387-2818Email: Sales@databridgemarketresearch.comInvestor: investors@databridgemarketresearch.comVisit BlogE-Health Global Market 2018: Key Players  Epocrates, Inc., Nike, Inc., Boston Scientific Corporation, IBM, Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Inc

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E-Health IndustryDescriptionWiseguyreports.Com Adds E-Health -Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities and Analysis of Top Key Player Forecast To 2022 To Its Research DatabaseAccording to Stratistics MRC, the Global E-Health Market is accounted for $99.35 billion in 2015 and is expected to reach $285.57 billion by 2022 growing at a CAGR of 16.2% during the forecast period. Factors such as growing occurrence of chronic diseases and technological advancements are favouring the market growth. However, increasing privacy concerns and growing demand for the safe infrastructure of data confidentiality are hampering the market.Healthcare providers segment held a substantial share in 2014, as e-Health offers great convenience to healthcare professionals in terms of patient work flow and data management. North America commanded the market attributed to the availability of supportive infrastructure such as high-speed internet. Asia-Pacific is expected to witness lucrative growth during the forecast period owing to increasing government support to improve healthcare infrastructure.Request for Sample Report @Some of the key players in E-Health market includeEpocrates, Inc., Nike, Inc., Boston Scientific Corporation, IBM, Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Inc., CompuMed, Inc., Telecare Corporation, McKinsey & Company, Cerner Corporation, Fitbit Inc., athenahealth, Inc., eClinicalWorks, Proteus Digital Health, Apple, Motion Computing, Inc., CureMD and GE Healthcare.Services Covered: Financial Serviceo Healthcare Asset Managemento Healthcare Revenue Cycle management Clinical Serviceo Laboratory Information Systemo E- Health Recordo Smart Wearableso Telemedicineo Clinical Decision Support Systemo Health Information Exchangeo E- Medical Recordo VNA and PACSo E-Prescribing Administrative Serviceo E-learning Systemso Healthcare Database Management SystemsEnd Users Covered: Biotechnology Healthcare Organizationo Laboratorieso Clinicso Hospitals Providers Government Organization Pharmaceuticals Insurers ResearchLeave a Query @Regions Covered: North Americao USo Canadao Mexico Europeo Germanyo Franceo Italyo UKo Spaino Rest of Europe Asia Pacifico Japano Chinao Indiao Australiao New Zealando Rest of Asia Pacific Rest of the Worldo Middle Easto Brazilo Argentinao South Africao EgyptWhat our report offers:- Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments- Market share analysis of the top industry players- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants- Market forecasts for a minimum of 7 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional markets- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancementsBuy Now @Continued...Contact Us: Sales@Wiseguyreports.Com Ph: +1-646-845-9349 (Us) Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (Uk)About Us:Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:Wise Guy Research Consultants Pvt LtdPune  411028Maharashtra, GlobalPh: +91 841 198 5042Global Fall Detection System Market Boosting CAGR of +6.13% from 2017 with Top Manufacturers, Growth, Size, Analysis, Competitive Landscape and Forecast till 2024

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Global Fall Detection System Industry 2017 Market Research Report focuses on price, sales, revenue and growth rate of each type, as well as the types and each type price of key manufacturers, through interviewing key manufacturers. Second on basis of segments by manufacturers, this report focuses on the sales, price of each type, average price of Credit Insurance, revenue and market share, for key manufacturers.The Global Fall Detection System Market accounted for USD 412.7 million in 2016 growing at a CAGR of 6.13% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2024. The upcoming market report contains data for historic year 2014, 2015, the base year of calculation is 2016 and the forecast period is 2017 to 2024.Request for Free Sample Report @Major market drivers: Global Fall Detection System Market Better accessibility to assistance in case of fall, leading to reduced medical expenses. Increasing demand for multimodal technology Increasing demand for smartphone and wearable technology based fall detection system. Use of data from simulated conditions for designing the fall detection system algorithm Low practicality and acceptability of the technology among eldersComplete report on Global Fall Detection System Market Research Report 2017-2024 spread across 350 Pages, profiling Top companies and supports with tables and figuresMarket Definition: Global fall Detection System MarketFall detection system is the system used in alerting emergence in the incident of fall. Fall detection system such as automatic fall detection system and manual fall detection system are used in such detection. Such devices have the potential to diminish some of the adverse consequences of a fall. It has its application in hospitals, nursing, senior assisted living facilities, lone workers, and others. Increased demand for multimodal technology is the major driver for the growth of fall detection system market. On the other side low practicality of the technology among elders somewhere hinders the market.Global Fall Detection System Market, By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Europe, South America, Middle East and Africa), Component (Accelerometers & Gyroscopes, Other Unimodal/Bimodal Sensors, Multimodal Sensors); Algorithm (Simple Threshold, Machine Learning); System (Wearable Systems, In-Home Landline System, In-Home Cellular Systems); End-Users (Senior Citizens  Home, Senior Citizens  Outside, Hospitals, Nursing, and Senior Assisted Living Facilities, Lone Workers)  Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024Request for Detaild TOC:Key Questions Answered in Global Fall Detection System Market Report:-Our Report offers:- What will the market growth rate, Overview and Analysis by Type of Global Fall Detection System Market in 2024? What are the key factors driving, Analysis by Applications and Countries Global Fall Detection System Market? What are Dynamics, This Overview Includes Analysis of Scope, and price analysis of top Vendors Profiles of Global Fall Detection System Market? Who are Opportunities, Risk and Driving Force of Global Fall Detection System Market? Who are the opportunities and threats faced by the vendors in Global Fall Detection System Market? Business Overview by Type, Applications, Gross Margin and Market Share What are the Global Fall Detection System Market opportunities, market risk and market overview of the Market?Top Key Players: ADT Corporation Bay Alarm Medical Blue Willow Systems Connect America Koninklijke Philips N.V. Lifefone Mobilehelp Semtech Corporation Tunstall Healthcare Group Ltd. Vital Connect Inc. Alertone Services, LLC Intel Corporation Marigroup Oy Medical Guardian LLC Mytrex, Inc. DBA Rescue Alert Singapore Technologies Electronics Limited LifeWatch USAFor more insightful information visit @Customize report of "Global Fall Detection System Market" as per customers requirement also available.Market Segmentations:Global Fall Detection System Market is segmented on the basis of Components Algorithm System End User Geography.Market Segmentations in Details:On the basis of Components into accelerometers & gyroscopes, other unimodal/bimodal sensors, multimodal sensors, and others.On the basis of Algorithm into simple threshold, machine learning.On the basis of System global fall detection system market is segmented into wearable systems, in-home landline system, in-home cellular system, and others.On the basis of End User the global fall detection system market is further segmented into senior citizens  home, senior citizens  outside, hospitals, nursing, and senior assisted living facilities, lone workersOn the basis of geography North America South America Europe Asia-Pacific Middle East & AfricaCompany Share Analysis: Global fall Detection System MarketThe report for global fall detection system market include detailed vendor level analysis for market shares in 2016 for Global, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and South America specifically. Also impact and development analysis of key vendors is registered in the market and factored on the basis of Vendor Positioning Grid Analysis which measures the vendors strengths and opportunities against present market challenges, measure providers ability to identify or satisfy present market needs, map providers market vision to current and upcoming market dynamics among others. The report also measures technology life line curve and market time line to analyze and do more affective investments.Speak to Author of the Report @Other ReportGlobal Fitness Equipment Market  Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024Global Fitness Equipment Market, By Type (Cardiovascular Training Equipment (Treadmills, Elliptical Trainers, Stationary Cycles, Rowing Machines, Stair Steppers, Others), Strength Training Equipment (Single Stations, Plate Loaded Equipment, Free Weights, Benches and Racks, Multistations, Accessories), Body Composition Analyzers (Bioimpedance Analyzer, Skinfold Caliper, Dual Emission X-Ray Absorptiometry (Dexa), Hydrostatic Weighing, Air Displacement Plethysmography), Fitness Monitoring Equipment), By End-User (Health Clubs, Gyms, Home Settings, Corporate Settings, Apartments, Hotels, Hospitals, Clinics), By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa, Rest of the World)  Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024.Report Access:About Data Bridge Market ResearchData Bridge Market Research set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process.Contact:Vishal DixitData Bridge Market ResearchTel: +1-888-387-2818Email: Sales@databridgemarketresearch.comInvestor: investors@databridgemarketresearch.comVisit BlogFollow us on LinkedIn:Aircraft Fire Protection System Market 2018 Global Analysis By Key Players  Amerex, Aerocon Engineering, Diehl Stiftung & Co. Kg, Gielle Groups, Halma

Aircraft Fire Protection System Market

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WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On  Aircraft Fire Protection System Market 2018 Global Analysis By Key Players  Amerex, Aerocon Engineering, Diehl Stiftung & Co. Kg, Gielle Groups, Halma.Description:In this report, the global Aircraft Fire Protection System market is valued at USD XX million in 2017 and is expected to reach USD XX million by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of XX% between 2017 and 2025.Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Aircraft Fire Protection System in these regions, from 2013 to 2025 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGet a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comGlobal Aircraft Fire Protection System market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the top players includingAdvanced Aircraft Extinguishers (AAE)AmerexAerocon EngineeringDiehl Stiftung & Co. KgGielle GroupsHalmaH3R AviationMeggittSiemensUnited TechnologiesOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoFire Detection SystemsAlarm & Warning SystemsFire Suppression SystemsOn the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate for each application, includingCivil AircraftMilitary AircraftReport Details @Table Of Contents  Major Key PointsGlobal Aircraft Fire Protection System Market Research Report 20181 Aircraft Fire Protection System Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Aircraft Fire Protection System1.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Segment by Type (Product Category)1.2.1 Global Aircraft Fire Protection System Production and CAGR (%) Comparison by Type (Product Category)(2013-2025)1.2.2 Global Aircraft Fire Protection System Production Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20171.2.3 Fire Detection Systems1.2.4 Alarm & Warning Systems1.2.5 Fire Suppression Systems1.3 Global Aircraft Fire Protection System Segment by Application1.3.1 Aircraft Fire Protection System Consumption (Sales) Comparison by Application (2013-2025)1.3.2 Civil Aircraft1.3.3 Military Aircraft1.4 Global Aircraft Fire Protection System Market by Region (2013-2025)1.4.1 Global Aircraft Fire Protection System Market Size (Value) and CAGR (%) Comparison by Region (2013-2025)1.4.2 North America Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.3 Europe Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.4 China Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.5 Japan Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.6 Southeast Asia Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.4.7 India Status and Prospect (2013-2025)1.5 Global Market Size (Value) of Aircraft Fire Protection System (2013-2025)1.5.1 Global Aircraft Fire Protection System Revenue Status and Outlook (2013-2025)1.5.2 Global Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2013-2025)7 Global Aircraft Fire Protection System Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis7.1 Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers (AAE)7.1.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.1.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Product Category, Application and Specification7.1.2.1 Product A7.1.2.2 Product B7.1.3 Advanced Aircraft Extinguishers (AAE) Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.1.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.2 Amerex7.2.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.2.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Product Category, Application and Specification7.2.2.1 Product A7.2.2.2 Product B7.2.3 Amerex Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.2.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.3 Aerocon Engineering7.3.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.3.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Product Category, Application and Specification7.3.2.1 Product A7.3.2.2 Product B7.3.3 Aerocon Engineering Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.3.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.4 Diehl Stiftung & Co. Kg7.4.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.4.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Product Category, Application and Specification7.4.2.1 Product A7.4.2.2 Product B7.4.3 Diehl Stiftung & Co. Kg Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.4.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.5 Gielle Groups7.5.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.5.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Product Category, Application and Specification7.5.2.1 Product A7.5.2.2 Product B7.5.3 Gielle Groups Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.5.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.6 Halma7.6.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.6.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Product Category, Application and Specification7.6.2.1 Product A7.6.2.2 Product B7.6.3 Halma Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.6.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.7 H3R Aviation7.7.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.7.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Product Category, Application and Specification7.7.2.1 Product A7.7.2.2 Product B7.7.3 H3R Aviation Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.7.4 Main Business/Business Overview7.8 Meggitt7.8.1 Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area and Its Competitors7.8.2 Aircraft Fire Protection System Product Category, Application and Specification7.8.2.1 Product A7.8.2.2 Product B7.8.3 Meggitt Aircraft Fire Protection System Capacity, Production, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018)7.8.4 Main Business/Business OverviewContinueFor more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.Global Smart Hospitality Market by Type, Top Company Profle, Technology, Industry Analysis with Forecast to 2024

Global Smart Hospitality Market  Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024

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According to New Research Report The Global Smart Hospitality Market accounted for USD 5.6 billion in 2016 growing at a CAGR of 25.9% during the forecast period of 2017 to 2024. The upcoming market report contains data for historic year 2014, 2015, the base year of calculation is 2016 and the forecast period is 2017 to 2024.Downoad a Free Sample copy of Report @Global Smart Hospitality Market By Geography, Software (Hotel Operation Management System, Integrated Security System, Hotel Building Automation System, Guest Service Management System, Integrated Communication Technology Solutions), Service (Professional Services, Managed Services), Hotel Type, Deployment Model  Industry Trends and Forecast to 2024TOP Competitors of Market: IBM Corporation, Oracle, Cisco Systems, Inc., Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., NEC India Pvt. Ltd., BuildingIQ., Winhotel Solution, Honeywell International Inc., Johnson Controls., Siemens AG, Schneider Electric among others.Request for Detail TOC @Company Share Analysis:The report for Smart Hospitality Market include detailed vendor level analysis for market shares in 2016 for Global, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and South America specifically. Also impact and development analysis of key vendors is registered in the market and factored on the basis of Vendor Positioning Grid Analysis which measures the vendors strengths and opportunities against present market challenges, measure providers ability to identify or satisfy present market needs, map providers market vision to current and upcoming market dynamics among others. The report also measures technology life line curve and market time line to analyze and do more affective investments.Talk to the Author of this Report @Major Market Drivers & Restraints: Increasing Demand for Real-Time Optimized Guest Experience Management Attractive Revenue Growth and Low Operational Costs Increasing Adoption of Iot and Energy Management Systems High Initial Cost of Deployment Limited Availability of Technically-Skilled PersonnelMarket Segmentation:Global Smart Hospitality Market is segmented on the basis of software:- Hotel operation management system, integrated security system, hotel building automation system, guest service management system, integrated communication technology solutions.On the basis of service:- Professional services and managed services.On the basis of hotel type:- Business hotels, heritage & boutique hotels, resorts & spas and others.On the basis of deployment model: On-premises and on-demand.On the basis of geography:- North America, South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East & Africa.Read more about This Report @About Data Bridge Market Research:Data Bridge Market Research set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process.Contact:Vishal DixitData Bridge Market ResearchTel: +1-888-387-2818Email: Sales@databridgemarketresearch.comInvestor: investors@databridgemarketresearch.comVisit Blog:Follow us on LinkedIn:Advance Research Report of Inductor Market Expecting an Outstanding Growth Till 2025- MURATA, TDK, AVX, Taiyo, Samsung, Yageo, Walsin, Fenghua Advanced Technology, Dafon, EPCOS, PHILIPS, Sunlord, Microgate

Inductor Market

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An inductor is considered as the passive electronic component used in the conservation of energy in the form of magnetic field and the power of the component is measured in terms of inductance. Continuous R&D activities in the electronics field related to inductors has resulted in size minimization, weight reduction, and improvements in surface mounting methods in making electronic devices are the factors that has fueled the demand of inductors in the market.Get Sample Copy of This Report @The increasing demand for wireless devices such as gateways, routers, access points, and high-end broadcasting systems will boost the RF & telecommunication segment thus driving the inductor market. On the basis of types, the market is segmented into fixed inductor, choke, coil, variable inductor, coupled inductor, multilayered inductor, power inductor, and surface mount inductor.Top Players are:MURATA, TDK, AVX, Taiyo, Samsung, Yageo, Walsin, Fenghua Advanced Technology, Dafon, EPCOS, PHILIPS, Sunlord, MicrogateThere is a booming demand for Global Inductor Market, accordingly numerous market specialists have bestowed time and energy to get to the core of this flourishing trend and find out if theres a basis for this noteworthy market presentation. With the latest research information, analysts were able to understand the notion behind the market growth.The current indicators as well as its the past essentials from the government and private sectors is used to estimate the position of the present-day market and to assign its place in the next five years. Taking into contemplation the research information since 2014 and calculating several fundamental mechanisms that affect market growth, a clear cut result has been enrolled. GIS is a minimized multi-component assembly that is encased in a ground metallic assembly. They are broadly used as a part of heavy industrial electrical frameworks for transmission and control operations. Factor such as the reduction in the transmission loss will contribute to the growth of this industry segment in the coming years.Few factors driving the growth of the market: Rise in power industry reforms. New capacity addition in the generation and transmission sector. Rapid urbanization and industrialization prompted the need for new and more effective reforms. Demand for more advanced technologies. Increase in expenditure on renewable sources of energy. Rising adoption of smart grid technology.Check Discount @On the other hand, though, volatile nature of raw material prices, subjects concerning to counter terrorism and cyber security, and the mounting grey market that offers low-quality products at inexpensive prices, impend to constrain the growth of the Inductor market.With all the gathered data analyzed using SWOT analysis, there is a clear understanding of the economic landscape of the Global Inductor Market. Prospective for the markets growth was uncovered and out-of-the-way economical threats also became apparent. There is a prominent intentional direction in the market and this is observed in the fundamental trends and improvements studied. By attaining market background and using fundamental norms, policies, and trends of other significant markets for documentations, market data was accomplished.Inquire before Buying@Table of ContentGlobal Inductor Market Research Report 2017Chapter 1 Inductor Market OverviewChapter 2 Global Economic Impact on IndustryChapter 3 Global Market Competition by ManufacturersChapter 4 Global Production, Revenue (Value) by RegionChapter 5 Global Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by RegionsChapter 6 Global Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by TypeChapter 7 Global Market Analysis by ApplicationChapter 8 Manufacturing Cost AnalysisChapter 9 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream BuyersChapter 10 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/TradersChapter 11 Market Effect Factors AnalysisChapter 12 Global Market ForecastQy IntroWe at, QYReports , a leading market research report publisher accommodate more than 4,000 celebrated clients worldwide putting them at advantage in todays competitive world with our understanding of research. Our list of customers include prestigious Chinese companies, multinational companies, SME's and private equity firms whom we have helped grow and sustain with our fact-based research. Our business study covers a market size of over 30 industries offering unfailing insights into analysis to reimagine your business. We specialize in forecasts needed for investing in a new project, to revolutionize your business, to become more customer centric and improve the quality of output.Contact:QYReportsJones John(Sales Manager)+91-9764607607sales@qyreports.com+15 CAGR Growth to be achieved by Solar Cable Market Analysis 2018 with Industry Forecast to 2025

Solar Cable Market

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The report segments the global solar cable market on the basis of various product type into Copper and Aluminum Alloy. Furthermore, the market is segmented on the basis of cable type into solid and stranded wires. On the basis of application, the market is segmented into solar panels wiring, underground service entrances and service terminal connections. The market is segmented on the basis of its uses in various end-use industry into residential, commercial, and Industrial segment. Thus, the report provides in-depth cross-segment analysis of the solar cable market and classifies it into various levels, thereby providing valuable insights at the macro as well as micro levels.Get Sample Copy of This Report @Various segments have been taken into consideration to provide the readers a holistic view of the entire market scenario. The competitive landscape in consideration with the leading companies and the companies operating in the global Solar Cable market has been highlighted and researched upon minutely. Numerous geographies, where the market is operating successfully, have also been explained and so are the regions where the players might find lucrative opportunities in the future.According to research expert Solar Cable Market accepted to highest revenue growth at a 15+% CAGR by 2018 to 2025.Top Players are:LAPP GROUP, Allied Wire & Cable, General Cable, Eldra, HUBER+SUHNER AG, KBE ELEKTROTECHNIK GMBH, LUMBERG, Multi-Contact, PHOENIX CONTACT, Amphenol Industrial Products Group, Ningbo Pntech New Energy, Ram Ratna Group, TBEA, ReneSola, Taiyo Cable, AtkoreCheck Discount @Furthermore, the competitive landscape of the global Solar Cable market has been described in high detail. Each of the key players in the market are revealed in terms of their basic company data, key competitors, and presence of manufacturing bases. These players are also described according to their offerings in product types and technologies, the solutions they offer, and the production costs, revenue generated, and overall price of these solutions.This report consists a part that acknowledges the competitive analysis of the global Solar Cable_ market. The strategies trailed by prominent players to stay ahead in the competition, the hurdles they are facing, competition they are dealing with, and the opportunities that are keeping them motivated are included in this section. This will help both large scale and small scale companies to deliberately understand the outlook of competition, further helping them expand their territory.Inquire before Buying@Table of ContentGlobal Solar Cable Market Research Report 2017Chapter 1 Solar Cable Market OverviewChapter 2 Global Economic Impact on IndustryChapter 3 Global Market Competition by ManufacturersChapter 4 Global Production, Revenue (Value) by RegionChapter 5 Global Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by RegionsChapter 6 Global Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by TypeChapter 7 Global Market Analysis by ApplicationChapter 8 Manufacturing Cost AnalysisChapter 9 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream BuyersChapter 10 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/TradersChapter 11 Market Effect Factors AnalysisChapter 12 Global Market ForecastQy IntroWe at, QYReports , a leading market research report publisher accommodate more than 4,000 celebrated clients worldwide putting them at advantage in todays competitive world with our understanding of research. Our list of customers include prestigious Chinese companies, multinational companies, SME's and private equity firms whom we have helped grow and sustain with our fact-based research. Our business study covers a market size of over 30 industries offering unfailing insights into analysis to reimagine your business. We specialize in forecasts needed for investing in a new project, to revolutionize your business, to become more customer centric and improve the quality of output.Contact:QYReportsJones John(Sales Manager)+91-9764607607sales@qyreports.comBernard and Melissa Anne Bailey, once active and lifelong residents of Midland, never had children. But through their bequest they have impacted the lives of more than 1,500 students by providing scholarships totaling more than $2 million to support their goal of a career in health care.

The March 1 deadline for applications to the Bernard F. and Melissa Anne Bailey Family Fund Health Care Scholarship program at MidMichigan Health is approaching. Students may access the application at www.midmichigan.org/bailey. Applications and support documentation will only be accepted electronically.

The scholarship fund was initiated through a $3.3 million bequest left by Bernard Bailey. Under the stewardship of the MidMichigan Health Foundation, scholarships are awarded to students pursuing health care fields on the basis of merit and established criteria as determined by an overseer committee. One such student who has received a Bailey scholarship is Midland resident Amy Tesolin-Gee.

A chronic medical condition combined with a love of science and a desire to help others has parlayed Amy Tesolin-Gee into a career in medicine. Currently a second year medical student at Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Tesolin-Gee admits her career path into medicine has taken a circuitous route.

"In part, this is due to my own experience with a chronic medical condition," explained Tesolin-Gee. "It will be gratifying to use this experience along with my training to help others meet their health goals -- whether it's health maintenance, preservation or gain of function in the face of disease, or rebuilding after a health setback."

Before starting medical school, Tesolin-Gee was an analytical technologist for The Dow Chemical Co. Prior to that, she worked in cancer research at the University of Michigan and for the National Marine Fisheries Service out of Woods Hole, Massachusetts, and Sandy Hook, New Jersey. She said that attending medical school is now her full-time job although she still enjoys volunteering at MidMichigan Medical Center - Midland during her breaks. Receiving a Bailey scholarship was integral in her decision to be able to move forward with her decision to attend medical school.

"The financial support is incredibly helpful, especially since I was very nervous about leaving a good job behind to pursue medical school," said Tesolin-Gee. "Taking such a step involves a lot of risk and uncertainty. Receiving the Bailey Scholarship not only provides much-needed financial assistance toward my goals, but it comes with the valuable message that someone believes in me."

"If the Baileys were alive today I would convey my heartfelt thanks -- not only for their generosity to me, but for their community support and appreciation of those serving in the medical field. They are an outstanding, inspiring example of paying it forward."

Those interested in more information on the Bailey health care scholarships may contact Ashley Raetz-Myers at ashley.raetz-myers@midmichigan.org or at 989-839-3638. Those interested in additional scholarship opportunities may visit www.midmichigan.org/scholarshipsA Mardi Gras celebration is coming to Midland on Tuesday, Feb. 13 to benefit The Legacy Center for Community Success.

The 2018 Mardi Gras Feast will feature Creole-inspired entrees and desserts from 13 different local food vendors, including Real Seafood Co., Grand Traverse Pie Co., and The Gourmet Cupcake Shoppe. Guests can enjoy an open buffet along with other attractions inspired by the French Quarter from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Great Hall Banquet & Convention Center.

"One of the things we're trying to do this year is get the word out on what we do," said Legacy Center president and CEO, Jennifer Heronema. "We're hoping that by sharing the impact we have on the community, people will walk away a little more knowledgeable."

Throughout the night or while waiting in line for food, attendees will have the chance to talk to different people who receive Legacy Center services.

Stations will be set up with adults learning English as their second language, children learning language skills to help with their dyslexia, and other tutors and parents who will share the impact the organization has had on their lives.

"This fundraiser allows us to use the money where we need it," Heronema said.

A big use of the money from this year's fundraiser will be dedicated to the Barton program that helps people with dyslexia learn to read and write.

"Through that we serve more than 100 kids and help them with decoding language and words so they can achieve in school," Heronema said. "This is the most kids weve ever served."

A new addition to this year's Mardi Gras-themed fundraiser is a piano bar featuring three rotating pianists throughout the night, including an eighth grader.

"We're just trying to make it a variety of things for people to do," Heronema said. "People can come and go as they please and eat what they like."

The piano bar will be set up as a more intimate space right outside of the large banquet room.

When people enter the event they will be immediately presented with Mardi Gras beads and should witness a performance from the Midland Jugglers Club. There will also be a silent auction throughout the night to benefit the Legacy Center.

Tickets for the event are $50 and can be bought in person at The Legacy Center for Community Success, at Eastman Party Store, or at the door. Tickets can also be purchased online through Eventbrite.The case against a 19-year-old Midlander accused of planning to rob another man has been bound over to the Midland County Circuit Court.

Keaton Garrett Holt is charged with armed robbery, possession of analogues and possession of marijuana in connection with the case. He and William DeWitt Campbell, 22, Midland, were arrested after an Oct. 14 traffic stop for a defective headlight at Universal Drive near Dublin Avenue.

An affidavit filed in the cases states the driver became nervous after the officer found he did not have a valid license. After smelling marijuana, the officer used a K9 and found marijuana, paraphernalia and a pill in the case. One of the suspects told the officer the pill was Xanax, and that he did not have a prescription.

"Inside the glove box I found a black plastic BB gun sitting on top of a black stocking face mask," the affidavit states. The investigation then turned toward the possibility the duo might have been planning to commit a robbery, the affidavit notes.

One suspect told the officer the BB gun and ski mask were his, and that the plan had been formed about one week prior.

The other suspect told police the plan was to rob someone he knew to be a drug dealer, and that the two began having problems after the suspect borrowed marijuana for the other without ever paying him back, court documents state.

Campbell faces a charge of conspiracy to commit armed robbery.

No future dates are set for Holt's case, which was bound over from the Midland County District Court on Jan. 23. The case against Campbell is set for a Holmes Youthful Trainee Act hearing next week. The act is a special status which leaves defendants without a criminal record once they successfully complete terms outlined by a judge.We have featured Harvard law professor and ridiculous crank Laurence Tribe on this website before, when he had some lies to spread about Bernie Sanders. At the time, Tribe was trying to pass himself off as a woke centrist while taking upwards of $435,000 from a coal company to challenge Obamas environmental laws. (Amazingly, Tribe was one of Obamas mentors at Harvard.)

We havent checked in with Tribe since thenwe assumed he was tweeting about respecting women while advocating for drone strikes in Yemen, or somethingbut we managed to catch up with him today because of this absolute doozy of a tweet. Im screenshotting it, because its only a matter of time before he deletes itassuming he has any shame left. (Update: Its deleted.)

Now, I dont want to belittle Russian interference in our election, or Muellers investigation, or any tie between the Putin government and Trump. But Russian conspiracy Twitter, populated by the likes of Mensch, Garland, Taylor, et al, is outside the scope of respectable inquiry. Its like comparing NASA to the flat-earth society.

And with this tweet, Tribe has solidified his place among the ranks of the true nutters. Lets break down his claims:

1. There was a plane crash.

2. On board, there was a Russian.

3. The Russian had some connection to Kushner and Trump.

4. By implication, the crash was no accident, and was designed to kill the Russian.

Quite a claim, and theres only one problem:

The dude he is talking about wasnt even on the damn plane.

Apparently, he was taken in by a 4chan hoax.

Part of me wants to laugh at the idiocy of this, but as Glenn Greenwald points out at The Intercept, its actually terrifying and horrible:

Even if Millian had been on the plane, casually suggesting that Putin, Trump or some combination of other villains purposely murdered everyone on the plane in order to silence one witness is deranged to the point of being a clinical pathology. That sort of baseless conspiracy mongering ought to disqualify anyone from serious company for a long time.

Tribe has gone from respected law professor to conspiracy-spreading crank in almost no time at all, and as Greenwald points out, our system is so screwed up that its actually rewarded himhes gained followers galore among the #resistance lunatic fringe, and hes a frequent guest on MSNBC.

In a just world, this would end with public humiliation of the kind from which Tribe would never recover. (His retraction was laughably insufficient.) In our worldwell, hell probably just dust himself off and get to work on his next theory about how the moon is a Russian plant designed to spy on American nuclear facilities. Or something.Pamela Lenartowicz: A constant amid change

God provides a constant amid so much change in the worldOndrej Stepanek

The Blautal-Center is a small shopping mall in Ulm. The trophies - who will win the series this year?

The riders use a wax spray to get more grip on the slippery floor.

Noel Niederberger looking stoked before racing. The Races are like a big party with a lot of spectators and a DJ who hypes up the crowd.

Tomas Zejda with a tailwhip.

Florian Werres is always happy when he is riding. The Track starts with a short straight over a bridge...

...Which is followed by the stairs onto the first floor. Erik Emmrich the German junior 4x champion is followed by Willy Muller in practice.

Erik Emmrich hit a small stone and ripped his tyre off the rim.

Ben Moore, the winner from the last round in Frankfurt is spraying glue on his tyres. He was a big favourite for the win.

Gustaw Dadela.

Daniel Kowalski on the first jump.

Ondrej Bene.

Noel Niederberger, the World Cup rider from NS-Factory, won with a single speed bike.

Noel at the start.

Noel Niederberger was the man of the day, winning all three runs.

He was so stoked to have won.

Podium MTB Freestyle

Podium BMX Freestyle: 1.Dave Janac 2. Konrad Szabo 3.Dan Muller.

Podium Downmall: 1. Noel Niederberger 0:27,99. 2. Mikulas Nevrkla 0:28,06. 3. Bartoz Gimeza 0:28,29.

The Downmall team with all the podium riders.

The 2018 Downmall Tour enters its 9th year at shopping malls across Eastern Europe. This year the Downmall Tour takes place at 4 different locations, the first stop at Blautal Center in Ulm, Germany happened last weekend.Next weekend, the series moves on to Essen in Germany, where last year's round was cancelled because of safety concerns. After that, the riders travel to Budapest in Hungary and Praha in the Czech Republic.Unfortunately, for the first round in Ulm, many of the best riders of last year's series, like Johannes Fischbach and Tomas Slavik, weren't able to attend because they were racing in Valparaiso in Chile at the urban downhill race.Between the races, there was a Freestyle Contest.The 30-second long track uses a step down to take riders from the first floor to the ground floor, which the freestylers used for their own show.Next weekend the racing heads to Praha and Fischbach and Slavik will be back in search for the win.NGCB Rules for Players in Red Rock Casino Bad Beat Jackpot Case

February 12, 2018 Valerie Cross

Many will recall the July 7th controversy at Red Rock Casino in Las Vegas where Avi Shamir was denied the big share of a more than $120,000 Bad Beat Jackpot after his straight flush was beat, because the player with the winning straight flush, Leonard Schreter, exposed his cards before action on the river was complete.

After repeated delays on a decision, the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) ruled on the case at their Feb. 7 Board meeting last week. From the Agenda of the meeting provided on the NGCB website, in the case Red Rock Casino Resort Spa v. Avinoam Shamir, the following ruling was provided: Hearing Examiner Recommends: Agents decision awarding payment of $62,126 to Avinoam Shamir be affirmed.

From the official Disposition (minutes) of the meeting, the recommendation is followed by, GCB Disposition: Payment awarded, per GCB order.

Without additional details to go on at this time, it would appear from the Disposition provided by the NGCB that the agent of the Dec. 12 hearing, Chan Lengsavath, had submitted a recommendation that Station pay out the disputed jackpot, and that was the decision that the three-member NGCB affirmed.

It is also apparent from the Disposition that the decision was upheld by Red Rock Casino, as it reads, payment awarded.

Background

The decision and the payment come seven months after the initial rollercoaster began for Shamir and Schreter, two regular small-stakes players who happened upon straight flush over straight flush on a warm summer Friday at their local casino in Summerlin.

Initially, the Board ruled in favor of the players to be paid on the grounds that the exposure of the cards did not affect the outcome of the hand. After Station Casinos appealed that decision, a hearing was held on Dec. 12, 2017 to review the evidence. That evidence was compiled and submitted to the NGCB by Lengsavath, along with a recommendation for the Board, which would later rule on the case.

At their first January Board meeting, member Terry Johnson requested additional information regarding the case and the Board thus delayed a ruling. It was also noted at that time that if Station Casinos is unhappy with whatever ruling the Board makes, the company could potentially appeal to the Clark County District Court, making it imperative that the facts of the case are clarified before a ruling be made.

The Payout

There has been some confusion regarding the actual payouts the two players stood to collect, but the Disposition specified the amount of $62,126 to Shamir, which should represent 50 percent of the entire BBJ amount, making the overall jackpot worth $124,252.

Following a typical BBJ payout structure, Schreter would be getting 25% for a little more than $30,000 and the rest would go to some combination of table share, divided among the players seated at the table where the jackpot hit, and room share, split among all players active in a cash game at Red Rock and other Station Casinos around Las Vegas at the time the jackpot hand took place.

It is important to note, however, that the only payout mentioned in the NGCB Disposition from last weeks meeting was that going to Shamir. Additional details regarding payouts to other players have not been disclosed.

Lead Photo Credit: "kennejima," Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 GenericIt was difficult to be a woman and to be a lesbian in the late-1800s...which isn't so much different from today.

The idea of early feminism and the struggle for a woman to be heard even within her own household is the topic of Director Craig William Macneill in this latest take on the Lizzie Borden story. A stellar cast amplifies the drama as we visit what it meant to have very little even when it looks like you're surrounded by so much.

It's 1892 and Lizzie Borden (Chloe Sevigny) is stifled in her Fall River, Massachusetts home with her family, including her tyrannical father (Jamey Sheridan) and her cold, uncaring step-mother (Fiona Shaw). The rules in the household are unbearably strict, leaving Lizzie with few pleasures outside of her pigeon training and brief outings on the town. Her world expands with the introduction of the new live-in maid, Bridget (Kristen Stewart), as the two form a fast and quick bond. The tension builds and breaks in the house when Lizzie and Bridget become far more than friends and her family tries to limit their relationship.

Actor Chloe Sevigny attends the World Premiere of Lizzie Ryan Kobane

The bold attitude in this film of depicting the same sex relationship between the female leads is incredibly well done. Rather than fetishizing lesbianism, as is so often done in film, these women are portrayed to the full capacity of their complex emotions, whether they are exchanging notes in the hallway or making out in the barn. What adds an impactful element to their relationship is the additional element of the abusive father. His verbal tormenting of Lizzie and his sexual abuse of Bridget also bonds these women as they work to fight against his evil ways.

Feminist qualities are also highlighted in this film in that none of the female characters are treated as people that need to be saved. Bridget is struggling in her position in the household (the step-mother won't even call her by her name), but she manages as best she can until the tension boils over. She tries to be her own savior, even if the attempts are a bit futile given what she is up against. Similarly, Lizzie is a force to be reckoned with throughout. The initial reaction of viewers might be that this character will be portrayed as the common "female problem" of the time because she is first shown having an issue with seizures, and given the period of the piece this was usually assumed to be equated to madness, but Lizzie does not show that. Her medical issue is the same as it would be for anyone else: just something she lives with but that does not define her.

While The Beguiled this past summer tried to show the drastic measures women will take when they are up against something endangering them (and most especially someone who is supposed to love and/or support them), it failed in all the realms with Lizzie succeeds. Both featured women of the 1800s committing violent acts of murder, and more importantly getting away with it, but Lizzie gives us a better reason than pure sexuality to commit these crimes. Lizzie explores the depth of the female body and brain as well as how it has struggled. While the blood and gore might be a bit much to take in after a meal, definitely plan on adding it to your list when it opens nationwide.



Find out more about Lizzie here.

Rachel A.G. Gilman is a writer, a radio producer, and probably the girl wearing the Kinks shirt. Visit her website for more.

POP DUST | Read More About Film...

REVIEW | "The Kindergarten Teacher" at Sundance 2018

REVIEW | "Private Life" at Sundance 2018

REVIEW | "Hearts Beat Loud" at Sundance 2018Its odd that prolific songwriter John McCutcheon has not been more widely covered by mainstream artists, particularly in the country genre. Over the course of 38 albums, he has proven himself a master storyteller in song who celebrates the common man and advocates for small-town American values, the very things Big-Time Country Music alleges to pay homage to. Maybe its the fact that hes never hid his liberal leanings. More likely, though, is that McCutcheon is a realist whose songs about small-town America and its hard-working denizens cut through the myths and simplified mantras of commercial country music.

McCutcheons small towns are not populated by people on porch swings sipping lemonade. Rather, the small towns McCutcheon sings of are sparsely populated: the factories are closed; downtown is abandoned; the young have run off in search of better options, and the only sign of life is in the Walmart parking lot. If theres a pickup truck in a McCutcheon song, its not rolling down a dirt road on the way to a party; instead, its probably got a couple hundred thousand miles on it as its equally worn-down driver chugs along between low-paying jobs. If theres a farm, its beholden to drought or the bank, probably both. And if theres a respite to be found in Sunday church, McCutcheons narrators are as quick to spit a curse as offer up a prayer, having been burned too many times by hope. So, on reflection, I guess its not so odd that the custom-cowboy-hatted Blakes and Travises of the Nashville machine have steered clear from roping themselves to any of McCutcheons songs.

And thats a damn shame because he is one of our great songwriters, a direct spiritual descendant of Woody Guthrie. Like Guthrie, McCutcheon is a chronicler of our intimate lives and gestures, the unconscious acts that collectively build identity, finding symbolism and great lessons in the complicated minutia of living, its collective joys and sorrows.

Ghost Light offers 13 McCutcheon originals that hit home with the weight of hard truths and harder-won beauty, their collective message one of perseverance over troubles and appreciation of the small triumphs found in family and a life well and truly lived.

Ghost Light opens with Perfect Day, a triumphant rollick that finds everything going right and ending with an invite from McCutcheons granddaughter, Poppy lets play. We encounter her again as the doting granddad makes her the star of She Just Dances, a heartwarming appreciation of the innocence of childhood. Here, McCutcheon watches as the little girl loses herself to the beauty of music, bouncing and dancing free of the self-consciousness that eventually weighs us all down, the worries of who may be watching and judging that eventually confine so many to the glum peripheries of the dance floor. But then, a song like Big Day, where the narrator reflects upon the decline of his beloved small town while waiting for the homecoming parade of a local hero, reminds us that these moments of beauty and joy can be rare and hard-won, and a harder world is always waiting for us outside.

The struggles facing small-town America color many of these songs. In The Road, an old timer remembers the building of the Dixie Highway and its false promise of fortune: They told me the 20th century was coming to the South, he sings, but quickly realizes that the treasures of this valley only traveled one direction and the new roads provided easy escape for the young eager to leave the old home place. Burley at the Bank Counter tells a similar story of progress serving the few while draining the many of their meager fortunes. Its a story made all the more poignant because the young go-getter is a local who realizes too late that his duty to his job betrays his own neighbors. Dark Side of This Town encapsulates both the opioid crisis and our countrys failures to serve its returning servicemen in its story of Billy whose best friend, the songs narrator, sings I drove him off to boot camp and they shipped him to Iraq / I met him at the airport but it werent Billy what come back. And Waiting for the Rain portrays the growing hardships facing the independent farmer and serves as a metaphor for the growing national trend of simple people wishing for a simpler, better time now long past.

The albums centerpiece is undoubtedly Machine, a song that evokes Woody Guthrie as McCutcheon responds to the rise of the alt-right and the events in Charlottesville, Virginia. Portraying the perspective of a World War II veteran watching a nationalist march, he sings Woody Guthrie had this guitar with the best sign I have seen / This machine kills fascists: we must be the machine. Reflecting on his experiences, the old veteran says I didnt fight the Nazis to allow them in this place, observing that No one is born to hatred, they must be fed the lie / Were left with the carnage and these bastards marching by and concluding No one can sit idly after what weve seen today / Its stand up and be counted or get the hell out of the way. We look to our great songwriters to step up in times of trouble, and McCutcheon does so here with aplomb.

Recorded with a revolving company of fellow musicians,

Ghost Light is a triumph from start to finish. Kathy Mattea and Tim OBrien provide harmony vocals on several tracks, with the primary band of Pete Kennedy (electric guitar), Stuart Duncan (fiddle), JT Brown (bass), and Jon Carroll (piano) providing nuanced and emotive accompaniment throughout the album. As always, McCutcheon demonstrates his mastery of the banjo and hammer dulcimer throughout. Ghost Light is a collection of songs that will, at turns, have listeners hunched in quiet contemplation or as often bouncing across the floor like an unself-conscious toddler.By the numbers, Loving Vincent is an unexpected cinematic hit. Between its September 2017, US opening in New York and its currently-listed final screening this month in Boston, the surprising indie will have been screened in more than 250 venues in the US alone. According to a December Variety article, Loving Vincent earned $5.8 million in its first 11 weeks in the US and has increased its earnings past $6.5 million. Not bad for a foreign independent film largely promoted through word of mouth. The film similarly succeeded in winning over audiences internationally.

The film that Radio Poland touted as the greatest success in the history of Polish cinema also celebrates a growing number of awards and nominations that reflect its worldwide critical acclaim.

Loving Vincent took home the award for Best Animated Feature Film from the 2017 European Film Academy Awards in Berlin, won the Audience Award at both the International Animation Film Festival in France and the Ostend Film Festival in Belgium, and received the Best Feature Film award at the Adirondack Film Festival in New York. More recently, Loving Vincent won Russias Golden Eagle Award for Best Foreign Language Film and has earned Golden Globe, Academy Award, and BAFTA nominations as one of the years best animated films.

One reason for the films financial success and critical acclaim is its uniqueness. Billed as the worlds first fully painted film,

Loving Vincent has enjoyed a global love affair not only because of its artistic form but its subject matter: one of the worlds most beloved artists, Vincent van Gogh. The film both engenders new fans for Van Gogh, who had so few supporters during his lifetime and satisfies those aficionados long familiar with his work and life story. Loving Vincent is an intriguing combination of biopic and cinematic art that has piqued critics and audiences interest around the world.

Loving Vincent as a Biopic

In brief, the plot traces the route that Armand Roulin (Douglas Booth), the son of Van Goghs friend and subject of a series of paintings, postman Joseph Roulin (Chris ODowd), takes to deliver Vincents last letter to his brother, Theo. Along the way, Armand and the audience encounter the people Vincent knew, including those who served as subjects for portraits. Writers-directors Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman strove to make

Loving Vincent an accurate biography and, as a biopic, the film appeals both to Van Gogh experts and general audiences who likely harbor preconceptions about the artist.

The facts that probably everyone comes to the film knowing are that Vincent van Gogh cut off his ear and later committed suicide. The ear incident has been depicted in numerous films and television episodes, usually in a highly dramatic re-enactment. After an argument with fellow artist Paul Gauguin over what would be the aborted future artist colony Van Gogh had dreamed of, Vincent sliced his ear with a razor and, as the story usually goes, took the unattached ear to a brothel in order to present it to his favorite prostitute. The dramatization of this event is graphically illustrated in

Loving Vincent, although recent research by the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam encouraged a different version than was originally filmed and painted. In 2016, the Museum reiterated that Van Gogh cut off not just a portion but his whole ear. This new finding led to approximately 3,000 frames in Loving Vincent having to be reshot and painted as part of the effort to be as accurate as possible.

Although

Loving Vincent deals with difficult aspects of the artists biography, the biopic is a loving tribute, but does not unduly focus on violent plot points. In fact, Kobiela and Welchman include a theory put forth by Van Goghs most recent biographers, Steven Naifeh and Gregory White Smith, whose Van Gogh: The Life (Random House, 20110. In their biography, Naifeh and Smith posit that a local youth, who liked playing cowboy and waving around a pistol, fatally wounded Van Gogh unintentionally as the author painted in a field. The accidental homicide, as Naifeh and White define it, is controversial and ultimately refuted in Kobiela and Welchmans film. However, its inclusion keeps the film up to date with the most recent biographical publication and likely makes more viewers aware of the latest in a long line of theories regarding Van Goghs death.

Despite the films conclusion that Vincent committed suicide, itlike the numerous biographers studying the artists life during the past centurycannot ascribe a reason why. In fact, one reason the film resonates with audiences is that viewers, like so many anguished characters on screen, do not understand why he would choose to kill himself, especially at that point in his life. The sense of loss felt by those who knew the artist is emphasized in this film. Postman Roulin, for example, is sorrowful and anguished as he struggles to come to terms with Vincents death. Doctor Gachet (Jerome Flynn) worries that his harsh words drove Vincent to suicide a few days later. However, Armand also hears happy memories of Van Gogh. Adeline Ravous (Eleanor Tomlinson), the daughter of the cafe owner who rented Vincent a room, spoke with Vincent daily. She believes that Van Gogh was happy living in Auvers and tells Armand about Vincents passion for painting outdoors, even during a thunderstorm. As much as possible, the actors and scriptwriters paint a balanced picture of Van Goghs mindset.

By allowing Armand to be a good listener while these and other characters reminisce about Van Gogh,

Loving Vincent makes the artist come alive, both to those still mourning him on screen and to audiences viewing the film. Seldom does a biopic about Van Gogh illustrate the depth of emotion many had for the artist. The usual focus of filmed biographies (e.g., Lust for Life, Van Gogh: Painted with Words, Vincent and Theo, Vincent Minelli, 1956) centers on Van Goghs emotions, particularly if they are portrayed as violent or erratic. Thus, the ear incident and suicide are key scenes in any biopic and, although they exist in this film, they are nonetheless only part of a much larger portrait of the artists personal life and those who shared it with him.

Loving Vincent as a Work of Art

The film goes beyond a cinematic biopic and succeeds as a work of art when its novelty and similarity to a moving painting are considered.

Loving Vincent relies on the filming technique of rotoscoping, the process of tracing over a filmed scene. Van Goghs use of impasto (a thick layering of paint, resulting in easily seen brush strokes), for example, creates a specific look on canvas that vastly differs from the appearance of a typically filmed scene. However, a rotoscoped film cell can look as if oil paint has been heavily applied to it because that is exactly what happened. Van Goghs portraits are brought to life because actors, cast to resemble as closely as possible their portraits, were filmed moving and talking like the real people being represented. The film was then painted over in a style highly reminiscent of Van Goghs.

Transitions between scenes playfully remind audiences of specific Van Gogh paintings. The iris, a popular transition between scenes in the early days of film, involves a circle closing; this technique closes several scenes in

Loving Vincent. Thus, when a purple flower from Van Goghs Irises guides viewers eyes from the end of one scene into the beginning of the next, the film is artistically and humorously using an iris effect. This nod to two mediafilm and paintingbeing blended through rotoscoping is an example of the creativity that suggests that Loving Vincent, as a work of art, transcends previous examples of rotoscoping and, indeed, becomes a unique cinematic art form.

Dedication to detail has endeared

Loving Vincent to many critics and filmgoers, not only for the way that so many of Van Goghs paintings have been worked into the story but as a tribute to the artists creative spirit. Even so, some critics find Loving Vincent too much a work of art; its emphasis on paintings or talking heads brought to life from portraits hinders the plots pace. However, filmmakers Kobiela and Welchman knew the majority of their audience well. Those who adore Van Goghs work, mourn his tragic death, or enjoy the spectacle of art on film probably are going to be satisfied with a romanticized re-enactment of many of Vincents gentler moments. These viewers are less likely to mind so many talking heads reminiscing about Van Gogh. Furthermore, many viewers likely were first attracted to the film by the promise of seeing Van Goghs paintings in a new way. They may be satisfied longer with the spectacle of seeing moving art via rotoscope technique, unlike critics who evaluate Loving Vincent just as they would any other film and may quickly tire of artistic technique in lieu of plot development.

When Loving Vincent is critiqued according only for its plot or decisions regarding performance, it does not fare quite so well. The story line is, after all, very basic: a young man talks with many of Van Goghs acquaintances as he travels; he cannot deliver the letter to Theo because he, too, is deceased. Determining what to do with the letter is hardly a dynamic mystery. The plot primarily succeeds as a framework for linking Van Goghs paintings to form a story.

Although individual actors performances are highly effective, one decision regarding performance weakens audiences ability to suspend disbelief and pretend that all characters live in France. An important choice was to cast actors from a variety of nations who used their own accents rather than having their characters speak with a regional French accent. Although the casting brought together actors from across Europe, the majority of roles are played by English, Irish, or Polish actors. Thus, Aidan Turner, who hails from Ireland, speaks with his natural voice and Irish inflection when the French Boatman converses with Vincent, played by Robert Gulacyzk, who is a Polish theater actor. English actor Booth portrays Armand Roulin, the character whose travels and conversations with Van Goghs friends and colleagues drive the plot. For some viewers, the shifts among accents may be jarring and take them out of the story.

Despite the films plodding plot and variety of accents, the successful use of rotoscoping to mimic Van Goghs style and the films ability to bring movement to so many Van Gogh paintings ensure that this cinematic biography stands out from other biopics about this artist. Whether

Loving Vincent increases its number of nominations or wins may, ultimately, be less important than its stature among other rotoscoped films, Van Gogh biographies, or mesmerizing works of art. It is best viewed on a big screen, but its recent (16 January) arrival on Blu-ray makes it increasingly accessible to anyone who wants to savor this moveable visual feast of a film that illustrates why, more than a century after his death, we continue loving Vincent.Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High near 85F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds and possibly an isolated thunderstorm late. Low 73F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.Get the SC business stories that matter.

Our newsletter catches you up with all the business stories that are shaping Charleston and South Carolina every Monday and Thursday at noon. Get ahead with us - it's free.Angie Jackson covers crime and breaking news for The Post and Courier. She previously covered the same beat for the Grand Rapids Press and MLive.com in Michigan. When shes not reporting, Angie enjoys teaching yoga and exploring the outdoors.Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations.COLUMBIA  After receiving no prison time following years at the center of a special prosecutor's Statehouse corruption probe, former Rep. Rick Quinn says he's ready to move forward and share his side of the controversy.

One thing the Lexington Republican won't do is head back to the Statehouse.

Quinn said Monday he's not running for the seat he just gave up, though his plea deal allows it. A successor will be chosen in a Feb. 27 GOP special primary election since no Democrats filed. The seat is up for election for a full two-year term later this year.

Quinn contends 1st Circuit Solicitor David Pascoe, the probe's chief prosecutor, essentially used his plea hearing as a public press conference to make allegations he can't prove.

Pascoe used a slide presentation at a December hearing to present a number of the accusations against the veteran lawmaker and his father, political consultant Richard Quinn, that they took millions from business clients to illegally influence legislation benefiting them.

Those assertions were not part of Rick Quinn's guilty plea on a single government misconduct charge for failing to include the University of South Carolina, which leased space from a company tied to him, on a 2016 campaign disclosure form.

"If he really believed (the allegations), shame on him for not going to trial," Quinn said. "He's the one who brought this to us. What he really wanted was to get me out of office."

Quinn repeated the assertion that Pascoe, a Democrat, pursued his father and him, longtime GOP supporters, out of political revenge.

"He opted to not go to trial because he cant prove it," Quinn said.

Sign up for updates! Get the latest political news from The Post and Courier in your inbox. Email

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Instead of a year in prison, Circuit Judge Carmen Mullen sentenced Quinn to two years of probation, 500 hours of community service and the maximum $1,000 fine after he pleaded guilty two months ago to a single count of misdemeanor misconduct in office.

The package deal dropped felony misconduct and conspiracy charges against him and all charges against his 73-year-old father. It was a deal Quinn said he could not refuse.

Quinn said he wanted to fight the charges at trial, but "when your father and family have been through the ringer for three years," and his father's trial could still be more than a year away, he decided the cost to his family was too high not to take Pascoe up on his offer.

The 52-year-old is glad he's finally free to counteract allegations that previously, he could only broadly deny.

In filings over the last month detailed in a Post and Courier report, Pascoe included emails he said showed that the South Carolina Association for Justice  the state trial lawyers group  quietly enlisted the Quinns' help to a tort reform bill that capped lawsuit damages.

In an April 2011 email, Mark Joye, the association's president, emailed two of his predecessors to complain about the proposed caps, noting the association paid the Quinns about $100,000 a year, and Joye wanted the pair to get involved and help.

Rick Quinn said that email was forwarded to him two months after he co-sponsored and approved the version Joye was complaining about. Quinn, among the bill's 81 co-sponsors, said Pascoe's court filing left out another email in which Joye complains about the Lexington lawmaker.

"He clearly did not think I was being helpful to them," Quinn said. "I was not a shill for the trial lawyers. They were mad at me."Columbia/Myrtle Beach Managing Editor

Andy Shain runs The Post and Courier's newsrooms based in Columbia and Myrtle Beach. He was editor of Free Times and has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Charlotte, Columbia and Myrtle Beach.PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:52:01

A.M. Best to Sponsor Dubai World Insurance Congress

A.M. Best

Charlotte Shoesmith, +(44) 20-7626-6264

charlotte.shoesmith@ambest.com

A.M. Best is a silver sponsor of the Dubai World Insurance Congress event, hosted by Global Reinsurance & the Dubai International Financial Centre, 27-28 February in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

A.M. Bests delegation will hold bilateral discussions at their meeting location in the conference Premium Business Lounge. To arrange a meeting, please email Bouchra.AbouNader@ambest.com.

A.M.BestTV is covering the conference.

A.M. Best rates more than 50 (re)insurance companies in the GCC and broader MENA region and has a representative office in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) to support its growing presence in the region. To learn more about Bests Credit Ratings, please visit www.ambest.com/ratings.

More information about the conference is available at http://events.globalreinsurance.com/dubaiwic/.

A.M. Best is the world's oldest and most authoritative insurance rating and information source. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright  2018 by A.M. Best Company, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/201802120059PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:43:02

Amsterdam, 12 February 2018 - Arcadis (EURONEXT: ARCAD), the leading global design and consultancy firm for natural and built assets, has repurchased 67,909 of its own shares in the period from 5 February 2018 up to and including 9 February 2018 at an average price of 17.29. The consideration for the shares repurchased in this period was 1.17 million.

These transactions were executed in accordance with the share buyback program announced on 29 September 2017, pursuant to which Arcadis will repurchase up to 1 million shares in order to cover obligations resulting from Arcadis share plans and other agreements related to recruitment and retention.

The total number of shares repurchased under this program to date is 771,135 shares for a total consideration of 14.3 million.

For more detailed information see: https://www.arcadis.com/en/global/investors/share-information/share-buyback-program/

-End -

Improving quality of life

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

ARCADIS INVESTOR RELATIONS

Jurgen Pullens

Mobile: +31 6 51599483

E-mail: jurgen.pullens@arcadis.com

ARCADIS CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS

Joost Slooten

Mobile: +31 6 27061880

E-mail: joost.slooten@arcadis.com

REGULATED INFORMATION

This press release contains information that qualifies, or may qualify as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

ABOUT ARCADIS

Arcadis is the leading global Design & Consultancy firm for natural and built assets. Applying our deep market sector insights and collective design, consultancy, engineering, project and management services we work in partnership with our clients to deliver exceptional and sustainable outcomes throughout the lifecycle of their natural and built assets. We are 27,000 people, active in over 70 countries that generate 3.3 billion in revenues. We support UN-Habitat with knowledge and expertise to improve the quality of life in rapidly growing cities around the world. www.arcadis.com





This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Arcadis N.V. via Globenewswire

Fast Market Research recommends "Baby Food in Poland (2017) - Market Sizes" from Global Markets Direct, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:37:20

Baby Food in Poland by Mintel Market Sizes provides you with annual year-end market size data, most recently updated in 2017. This comprises packaged dry and liquid products designed specifically for babies/infants. It includes: baby formula and growing up milk; other drinks, biscuits/rusks/snacks; cereals; fruit & vegetables; foods and other solids. Market value and volume comprises sales through all retail channels including direct to consumer. Market size for Baby Food in Poland is given in PLN and tonne with a minimum of five years' historical data. Market Forecast is provided for five years. Included with this snapshot is socio-economic data for Poland. Population, Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Exchange Rates.Full Report Details atReport Table of Contents:* Definitions* Retail market size* Highlights - strongest and weakest performers* Figure 1: Volume - Absolute size (2007 - 2021)* Figure 2: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 3: Volume - Growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 1: Volume (2007 - 2021)* Figure 4: Value in Local Currency - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 5: Value in Local Currency - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 6: Value in Local Currency - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 2: Value in Local Currency (2007 - 2021)* Figure 7: Value in USD - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 8: Value in USD - Spend per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 9: Value in USD - Spend as a proportion of GDP (2007 - 2021)* Figure 10: Value in USD - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 11: Value in USD - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 3: Value in USD (2007 - 2021)* Market Segmentations* Figure 12: Poland - Baby Food: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Table 4: Poland - Baby Food: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Figure 13: Poland - Baby Food: Retail market segmentation by value (m PLN) (2011 - 2016)* Table 5: Poland - Baby Food: Retail market segmentation by value (m PLN) (2011 - 2016)* Figure 14: Poland - Milk: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Table 6: Poland - Milk: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Figure 15: Poland - Milk: Retail market segmentation by value (m PLN) (2011 - 2016)* Table 7: Poland - Milk: Retail market segmentation by value (m PLN) (2011 - 2016)* Figure 16: Poland - Other: Retail market segmentation by volume (tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Table 8: Poland - Other: Retail market segmentation by volume (tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Figure 17: Poland - Other: Retail market segmentation by value (m PLN) (2011 - 2016)* Table 9: Poland - Other: Retail market segmentation by value (m PLN) (2011 - 2016)* Market Shares* Figure 18: Poland - Baby Food: Company retail market share by volume (%) (2012 - 2016)* Table 10: Poland - Baby Food: Company retail market share by volume (%) (2012 - 2016)* Figure 19: Poland - Baby Food: Company retail market share by value (%) (2012 - 2016)* Table 11: Poland - Baby Food: Company retail market share by value (%) (2012 - 2016)* Company & Brand details* Table 12: Poland - Baby Food: Company Website Links* Compound annual growth rates* Table 13: Retail market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Socio-economic data* Figure 20: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Table 14: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 21: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Table 15: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Figure 22: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Table 16: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 23: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Table 17: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Sources of Data* Table 18: Poland - Baby Food* Methodology* About MintelAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 11:28:03

Four-year extension secures sales of crude oil produced from Energeans Prinos basin assets

BP and Energean Extend Long-Term Offtake Agreement for the Prinos Field to November 2025

Media Enquiries:

Energean Oil & Gas

Sotiris Chiotakis

schiotakis@energean.com

+30 6932663877

or

Instinctif Partners

David Simonson / Laura Syrett / George Yeomans

+44 20 7457 2020

www.energean.com

Energean Oil & Gas (Energean or the Company) is pleased to announce the extension of the Prinos long-term offtake agreement with BP Oil International Limited (BP) until 1 November 2025.

All of the Groups production of crude oil from the Prinos basin is currently sold to BP under the offtake agreement, which was originally signed in 2013 and covered the period until 31 July 2021.

The extension of this agreement secures Energeans sales of crude oil from the Prinos basin for a further four years, helping safeguard the Groups cash flow.

Energean is implementing a new investment programme to further increase production from the Prinos and Prinos North oil fields, as well as to develop the Epsilon oil field, which is also a part of the Prinos licence. The new programme, to be financed by a $180 million reserve-based lending (RBL) facility, consists of drilling of up to 25 wells and the installation of two new platforms up to 2021. This will be executed by both the Energean Force, Energeans owned and operated offshore drilling rig, and the jack-up GSP Jupiter that will drill the first 3 Epsilon wells.

Energean Oil & Gas CEO, Mathios Rigas, commented: We are very pleased to extend our agreement with BP, a relationship that started in April 2013 and is now developing into a strategic partnership that secures cash flow from our production in Greece. BP has consistently lifted Prinos cargoes in the past four years and has established the Prinos crude in the international markets.

Increasing our production from Greece, the $1.6 billion capex Phase 1 development of the Karish and Tanin gas fields, offshore Israel, and the exploration of the Eastern Mediterranean remain our focus and we believe the extended BP offtake agreement further strengthens our position to deliver maximum value from the Prinos licence.

ENDS

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/201802120055Recently published research from TechNavio, "Food Service Market in APAC 2017-2021", is now available at Fast Market Research

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:20:41

Foodservice refers to the sale of food and beverages that is prepared out-of-home for immediate consumption either on the premises from where they are purchased or for takeaway and home delivery. The foodservice industry offers its services to cafeterias, hospitals, cafes, pubs, nightclubs, bars, and hotels. Foodservice outlets are one-stop shop for household consumers that deliver foods of consumers' choice right at their doorstep. The working population, being time-pressed to prepare food, demands foods that are ready-to-eat or take very little effort to dish out. This has led to the adoption of a variety of food products from foodservice providers. Furthermore, trends like self-service, family oriented dining, and cafeteria are on the rise.Full Report Details atTechnavio's analysts forecast the food service market in APAC to grow at a CAGR of 4.98% during the period 2017-2021.Covered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the food service market in APAC for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the sales, volume, and value.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:* Americas* APAC* EMEATechnavio's report, Food Service Market in APAC 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendors* McDonald's* Restaurant Brands International* Seven & i Holdings* Starbucks* Yum China HoldingsOther prominent vendors* Barista Coffee* Coffee Beanery* Coffee Day Enterprises* Dicos* Domino's Pizza* Doutor Coffee Shop* Ediya Coffee* Gloria Jean's Coffees* Jollibee Foods* J.CO DONUTS & COFFEE* Krispy Kreme Doughnuts* Mad Over Donuts* Mister Donut* MOS Food Services* Mr. Lee* Speciality Restaurants* Subway* Tully's Coffee* Yum! BrandsMarket driver* Changing lifestyles and rise in demand for convenient food* For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge* Fluctuating raw material prices* For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trend* Rising popularity of cafes* For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this report* What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be?* What are the key market trends?* What is driving this market?* What are the challenges to market growth?* Who are the key vendors in this market space?You can request one free hour of our analyst's time when you purchase this market report. Details are provided within the report.Companies Mentioned in this Report: McDonald's, Restaurant Brands International, Seven & i Holdings, Starbucks, Yum China Holdings, Barista Coffee, Coffee Beanery, Coffee Day Enterprises, Dicos, Domino's Pizza, Doutor Coffee Shop, Ediya Coffee, Gloria Jean's Coffees, Jollibee Foods, J.CO DONUTS & COFFEE, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Mad Over Donuts, Mister Donut, MOS Food Services, Mr. Lee, Speciality Restaurants, Subway, Tully's Coffee, Yum! BrandsAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Genetic Analyzer Market

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 11:48:49

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Genetic analysis is a method of learning and research in genetics and molecular biology fields that involves use of wide group of applications while basic system of the analysis is usually pertained to the orthodox genetics. Customary forms of analysis of genetic includes the gene identification and inherited diseases analysis. Genetic analysis also implicit the patients physical observation and the microscopic evaluation of genetics as it is conducted for the long time. Genetic analysis is also applied in differential diagnosis during the analysis of specific diseases, in mutation detection, copy number changes in DNA.Factors like advancements in the technologies of genetic testing, rise in prevalence of the genetic diseases, growing in the awareness are boosting the genetic analyser market globally. Furthermore, initiatives taken by the governments and increase in R&D investment and activities in the genetic field are also driving the genetic analyzer market. However, due to certain factors genetic analyzers use is restricted. The operability of such kind of automated advanced machines requires technical expertise leaving little room for human error. Calibration is essentially needed for genetic analyzers. High cost of genetic analyzers resulting in their availability in a limited number of research organizations is also hampering the growth of the genetic analyzers market globally.A sample of this report is available upon request @Global genetic analyzer market is segmented on the basis of instruments, consumables, application, end-user and geographical regions.Based on product type, global genetic analyzer market is segmented as: Instrumentso DNA Microarrayso PCRo Next Generation Sequencingo Serial Analysis of Gene Expressiono Northern Blotting Consumableso DNA Chipso ReagentsBased on the end-user, global genetic analyzer market is segmented as: Diagnostics Centres Drug Discovery Research and Development OthersTo view TOC of this report is available upon request @Increase in the clinical genome sequencing, increase in incidence of neurodegeneration diseases such as Alzheimers, Huntingtons and Parkinsons disease and also cases of cancers prompts the interest in genetic analysis. High swift in the acceptance of pediatric genetic testing used for of screening adult onset disorders are the factors contributing to the genetic analyzer market growth. Some of the government initiatives are improving the healthcare delivery to different sections of population, mergers, acquisitions and product launches of the companies are the factors driving the growth of the genetic analyzer market.Need more information about this report @Geographically, genetic analyzer market is divided into Europe, Asia-Pacific North America, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. Global genetic analyser market is dominated by North America due to the rise in diseases prevalence by genetic disorders and rise in advancements technologically in the region. Asia-Pacific, is expected to show significant growth during the forecast period in the genetic testing market. India, China and Japan are expected as the fastest growing genetic testing markets in the Asia-Pacific region due to increase in R&D investment, a large pool of patients and rising government funding.Some of the major companies dealing in genetic testing market are Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (U.S.), BioRad Laboratories (U.S.), Abbott laboratories (U.S.), AutoGenomics Inc.( U.S.), Celera Group (U.S.), PerkinElmer Inc.( U.S.), Quest Diagnostics Inc.( U.S.), ELITech Group (U.S.), Applied Biosystems Inc.( U.S.), F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG (Switzerland), Transgenomic Inc.( U.S.).Get access to full summary @About Precision Business InsightsPrecision Business Insights is one of the leading market research and business consulting firm, which follow a holistic approach to solve needs of the clients. We adopt and implement proven research methodologies to achieve better results. We help our clients by providing actionable insights and strategies to make better decisions. We provide consulting, syndicated and customised market research services based on our client needs.Email: sales@ precisionbusinessinsights.comPR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 23:00:18

FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Georox Resources Inc.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Kelowna, British Columbia (FSCWire) - Georox Resources Inc. (TSX Venture:GXR). has issued a press release with the following headline:Georox Resources Announces Operational UpdateTo view this press release on the FSCwire website, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:If you would prefer, you can also view this press release as a PDF file, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:For more information on Georox Resources Inc., or to see additional press releases issued by this company, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser: http://www.fscwire.com/public-company/Georox Resources Inc.Source: Georox Resources Inc. (TSX Venture: GXR, FWB: OF6A, WKN: A0Q8Q0 , ISIN: CA3736271089)Date: February 12, 2018Time: 5:00 PM EST--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Georox Resources Inc. and disseminated through FSCwire.About FSCwireFSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.), is a global newswire dissemination, SEDAR, SEDI, and EDGAR / XBRL service provider.FSCwire is a full service global newswire dissemination company and is fully approved by all exchanges in Canada and the U.S. Press releases can be distributed for all sizes of public, private or not for profit companies and any other organization requiring news distribution. In addition to individual companies; public relations, communications and investor relations firms trust FSCwire to distribute press releases for their respective clients.In addition to newswire dissemination FSCwire also offers EDGAR, XBRL, SEDAR, SEDI, and additional services for publicly traded companies. For more information, please go to our website: http://www.fscwire.com Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2018 - FSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.)Graves Orbitopathy Market

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 11:51:48

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Graves ophthalmopathy is also called as thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) and thyroid eye disease (TED), Graves orbitopathy (GO) is autoimmune inflammatory disorder of the tissues of periorbit and orbit that is characterized by the retraction of upper eyelid, lagging, swelling and redness of lid, bulging of eyes and conjunctivitis. Most commonly occurs in the individuals having Graves disease, and less commonly in the individuals having Hashimotos thyroiditis, or in the people with euthyroid. It is a part of systemic process of variable expression in skin, thyroid and eyes that is caused by the autoantibodies which binds to the tissues of these organs. Autoantibodies targets the fibroblasts in the eye muscles and fibroblasts can be differentiated into the fat cells (adipocytes). Muscles and fat cells expands and gets inflammation.Increase in incidence and prevalence of thyroid disorders, availability of appreciative reimbursement policies for the treatment, and growing awareness regarding the complications related to thyroid disorders are some of the factors driving Graves disease market. Side effects associated with drugs are one of the restraints for the graves orbitopathy market.A sample of this report is available upon request @The global graves orbitopathy market is segmented on the basis of drug class, distribution channel and geographical regions.Based on the drug class, the graves orbitopathy market is segmented as: Iodine and Iodides Ionic Inhibitors Radioactive Iodine Beta Blockers Thioamides CorticosteroidsBased on the distribution channel, the graves orbitopathy market is segmented as: Hospital Pharmacies Retail Pharmacies OthersTo view TOC of this report is available upon request @As per Wickham study in England, in 2016, Graves disease is accounted for 0.5 cases per 1000 persons, with high incidence rate in people with age of 40 to 60. Graves disease is the high prevalent autoimmune disorder in U.S After Hashimoto thyroiditis. In 2016, as per research study of PREGO (presentation of Graves orbitopathy), incidence of Graves orbitopathy in Europe was 10-30/10,000 human annually. However, severity and the incidence of the Graves disease in Europe was observed to decline to 2.10/10,000/year. Iodine-131 is used in radioactive iodine ablation (RIA) used to remove whole or a part of thyroid gland, which results in preventing the excessive production of thyroid hormone. Subtotal thyroidectomy used for the removal of thyroid gland is the most invasive treatment option.Need more information about this report @On the basis of geographical regions, the graves orbitopathy market is segmented as Asia Pacific, North America, Latin America, Europe, and Middle East & Africa. North America is expected as major market for the disorders related to thyroid gland followed by Europe. Asia-Pacific is expected to be as a rapidly growing market due to rise in thyroid gland disorders, rise in health care investments, growing awareness regarding hyperthyroidism, and different alternative treatments availability.Some of the players in the graves orbitopathy disease market are GlaxoSmithKline plc (U.K.), Allergan, plc.(Ireland) Abbott Laboratories (U.S.) RLC LABS (U.S.), AbbVie, Inc.( U.S.), Mylan N.V.( U.S.), Pfizer, Inc. (U.S.), and Merck & Co.,Inc . (U.S.).Get access to full summary @About Precision Business InsightsPrecision Business Insights is one of the leading market research and business consulting firm, which follow a holistic approach to solve needs of the clients. We adopt and implement proven research methodologies to achieve better results. We help our clients by providing actionable insights and strategies to make better decisions. We provide consulting, syndicated and customised market research services based on our client needs.Email: sales@ precisionbusinessinsights.comHeart Valves Market

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 11:55:15

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Heart valves are the medical devices which are used in the replacement of defective heart valve. Heart valves are majorly 2 types, they are biological or tissue and mechanical heart valves. Biological heart valves are made up of various tissues such as porcine, bovine and human tissues. Heart valves made from human tissues are known as homografts or allografts. The major advantage of tissue valves over mechanical valve is mechanical heart valves can cause bleeding and increase the chances of reoperations in geriatric people. Since the use of tissue heart valves in people of this age group lowers the risks of bleeding. Physicians are increasingly opting for this method as it able to reduce the use of oral anticoagulation drugs for the management of bleeding complications.The heart valves market is growing at a significant CAGR due to increase in geriatric population, and increase in the prevalence of heart valve diseases. The increase in demand for stentless tissue valves, implementation of MI procedures expected to fuel the growth of Heart valves market. Rising in preference for tissue heart valve replacement surgeries among the geriatric population is also boosting the growth of Heart valves market over the forecast period. However, lack of skilled professional, the risk of potential complications with tissue valves, and use of alternate products might hamper the growth of Heart valves market over the forecast period. Similarly, the stringent regulatory framework for product approvals expected to dampen the growth of Heart valves market.A sample of this report is available upon request @The heart valves market is segmented on the basis of product type, valve type, harvesting type, and end usersBased on product type, heart valves market has been segmented into the following: Stented tissue heart valves Stentless tissue heart valvesBased on valve type, heart valves market has been segmented into the following: Aortic tissue valves Mitral tissue valvesBased on the harvesting, heart valves market has been segmented into the following: Autograft Homograft HeterograftBased on end-user, heart valves market has been segmented into the following: Hospitals Clinics Ambulatory surgical centersTo view TOC of this report is available upon request @Global heart valves market is increasing due to rise in the prevalence of cardiac disorders. The most commonly adopted strategies by industry players include new product launches with technological innovations, acquisitions & mergers, agreements, and collaborations to capture significant Heart valves market share. They acquire other companies to enhance their R&D capabilities for manufacturing innovative devices that meet consumer needs. Acquisition of other companies allows vendors access to the product portfolio of the acquired company. For instance, in December 2012, Edwards Lifesciences Corporation and Cook Biotech Incorporated, have collaborated into a technology licensing and supply agreements for the development of tissue-engineered heart valves and related cardiovascular implants.Need more information about this report @Geographically, heart valves market has been segmented into following regions Viz. North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America is expected to hold a dominant share in Heart valves market owing to increase in the prevalence of heart valve diseases, increasing research and development, favourable medical reimbursement policies increase the growth of Heart valves market in North America. Europe region holds second largest share attributed to increases in the prevalence of heart valve diseases because of changing lifestyle. Increasing government funding for R&D, technological advancements are expected to boost the growth of Heart valves market. Asia-pacific region is expected to hold the large share in forecast period due to increase in awareness regarding tissue valves, increasing geriatric population and rising opportunities in medical tourism.Some of the players in the heart valves market are Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (U.S.), LivaNova PLC (U.K.), Medtronic (U.S.), St. Jude Medical (Abbott Laboratories) (U.S.), Braile Biomedica (Brazil), CryoLife, Inc. (U.S.), and Laboratory Corporation of America (U.S.) to name a few.Get access to full summary @AAbout Precision Business InsightsPrecision Business Insights is one of the leading market research and business consulting firm, which follow a holistic approach to solve needs of the clients. We adopt and implement proven research methodologies to achieve better results. We help our clients by providing actionable insights and strategies to make better decisions. We provide consulting, syndicated and customised market research services based on our client needs.Email: sales@ precisionbusinessinsights.com bout Precision Business InsightsPrecision Business Insights is one of the leading market research and business consulting firm, which follow a holistic approach to solve needs of the clients. We adopt and implement proven research methodologies to achieve better results. We help our clients by providing actionable insights and strategies to make better decisions. We provide consulting, syndicated and customised market research services based on our client needs.Email: sales@ precisionbusinessinsights.comPR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 18:17:01

Citeline leveraging Saama's artificial intelligence to offer customers a complete understanding of the clinical trial landscape

LONDON, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Citeline, part of Informa Pharma Intelligence's suite of pharmaceutical, medtech and biomedical research and analysis solutions, and Saama Technologies, Inc., a leading clinical analytics company, announced a partnership to integrate Citeline's application programming interfaces (APIs) with Saama's artificial intelligence and deep learning solutions.

This is a strategic effort to bridge global clinical data and real-world data to improve both planning for and conducting clinical trials. Joint customers will get unparalleled insight into robust clinical trial intelligence with greater efficiency than before.

Saama is integrating with Citeline's APIs, including Trialtrove and Sitetrove, which provide users with the ability to go even deeper with search criteria and make better, more well-informed decisions, gain competitive advantage, and optimize ROI for their clinical trials. Combined with Saama's real-world analytics, mutual customers will have smarter, more streamlined and successful clinical trials.

"This partnership represents a great use case for Citeline's newly released API's," said Jason Tse, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Informa Pharma Intelligence. "We're continuing to drive innovative products alongside our partners and bridge real-world data with our clinical trial information, tackling a growing unmet need in our industry. Through this partnership, our joint customers will be able to overcome clinical development challenges, gain industry insights, and optimize trial success through multiple points of triangulation."

"The partnership between Citeline's expert clinical trial data and Saama's award-winning AI-enabled technologies, which leverage both structured and unstructured real-world data, represents the next phase of intelligent clinical trial planning and execution," said Luke Stewart, Director of Product Management at Saama.

Attendees at this week's 2018 Summit for Clinical Ops Executives (SCOPE) meeting in Orlando should visit Informa Pharma Intelligence at booth 617 and Saama at booth 316 to learn more about the partnership.

About Informa Pharma Intelligence

Informa Pharma Intelligence powers a full suite of analysis products - Datamonitor Healthcare, Sitetrove, Trialtrove, Pharmaprojects, Medtrack, Biomedtracker, Scrip, Pink Sheet and In Vivo - to deliver the data needed by the pharmaceutical and biomedical industry to make decisions and create real-world opportunities for growth.

With more than 500 analysts keeping their fingers on the pulse of the industry, no key disease, clinical trial, drug approval or R&D project isn't covered through the breadth and depth of data available to customers. For more information visit pharmaintelligence.informa.com.

About Citeline

Citeline, part of Informa's Pharma Intelligence vertical, is the world's most comprehensive source of real-time R&D intelligence for the pharmaceutical industry, featuring an unmatched intelligence collection and enrichment of global clinical trials, clinical trial investigator profiles and drug development pipelines.

Citeline is the R&D Intelligence arm of Informa's Pharma Intelligence vertical, one of the world's leading providers of drug, device, company, clinical trial and market intelligence in the pharma and medtech markets. For more information, visit pharmaintelligence.informa.com.

About Saama

Saama Technologies is the advanced data and analytics company delivering actionable business insights for life sciences and the Global 2000. We are singularly focused on driving fast, flexible, impactful business outcomes for our clients through data and analytics. Our unique "hybrid" approach integrates focused solutions and expertise across the life sciences domain, business consulting, data science, automated data management, and big data technologies. We integrate manual and disconnected initiatives into a well-aligned roadmap facilitating the client's journey from strategy through solution implementation.

Media Contact

Diffusion PR for Informa Pharma Intelligence

Allie Tedone

informapharma@diffusionpr.com

646.571.0120

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Informa Business Intelligence via Globenewswire

Fast Market Research recommends "Facial Care in Belgium (2017) - Market Sizes" from Global Markets Direct, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 16:42:14

Facial Care in Belgium by Mintel Market Sizes provides you with annual year-end market size data, most recently updated in 2017. This market covers anti-ageing, skin whiteners/lighteners, hydrating/moisturising, cleansers/toners, masks and specialised facial skin care products. It excludes medicated products such as acne treatments. Market value is based on sales through all retail channels including direct to consumer. It includes mass market and prestige lines but excludes the professional sector, including beauty salons, to the consumer. Market size for Facial Care in Belgium is given in EUR with a minimum of five years' historical data. Market Forecast is provided for five years. Included with this snapshot is socio-economic data for Belgium. Population, Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Exchange Rates.Full Report Details atReport Table of Contents:* Definitions* Retail market size* Highlights* Figure 1: Value in Local Currency - Value (2008 - 2021)* Figure 2: Value in Local Currency - Value growth (2008 - 2021)* Table 1: Value in Local Currency (2008 - 2021)* Figure 3: Value in USD - Value (2008 - 2021)* Figure 4: Value in USD - Spend per capita (population) (2008 - 2021)* Figure 5: Value in USD - Spend as a proportion of GDP (2008 - 2021)* Figure 6: Value in USD - Value growth (2008 - 2021)* Table 2: Value in USD (2008 - 2021)* Market Segmentations* Figure 7: Belgium - Facial Care: Retail market segmentation by value (m EUR) (2015 - 2016)* Table 3: Belgium - Facial Care: Retail market segmentation by value (m EUR) (2015 - 2016)* Market Shares* Figure 8: Belgium - Facial Care: Company retail market share by value (%) - 2015* Figure 9: Belgium - Facial Care: Company retail market share by value (%) - 2016* Table 4: Belgium - Facial Care: Company retail market share by value (%) (2015 - 2016)* Company & Brand details* Table 5: Belgium - Facial Care: Company Website Links* Compound annual growth rates* Table 6: Retail market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Socio-economic data* Figure 10: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Table 7: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 11: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Table 8: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Figure 12: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Table 9: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 13: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Table 10: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Sources of Data* Table 11: Belgium - Facial Care* Methodology* About MintelAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 07:02:01

CLEVELAND, February 12, 2018 - The Lubrizol Corporation announces it will exhibit at PaintIndia 2018, which will be held March 8-10 in Mumbai, India. Lubrizol will exhibit in booth C3B, showcasing its latest component technology innovations for paints and coatings as well as digital inks. Some of these new innovations include:

 Aptalon(TM) polyamide polyurethane technology that provides outstanding protection and durability for wood and metal surfaces.

 Solsperse(TM) water-borne hyperdispersant technology that combines high color development with corrosion protection benefits.

 Carboset acrylic resin technology that provides outstanding corrosion protection in coatings for transporting and storing metal components.

 PowderAdd(TM) micronized wax technology that enables unique matting and texturing effects for powder coated metal surfaces.

 Lanco(TM) micronized wax technology that delivers matting efficiency while providing high scratch and mar resistance for wood and metal applications.

An Expert Center in the booth will allow visitors to meet one-on-one with dispersant, resin and surface modifier experts to discuss opportunities, challenges, formulation suggestions or other topics. Visitors are invited to visit the Expert Center to brainstorm ideas for their next coatings project.

"The PaintIndia event is an excellent venue for both sharing and gathering information about our industry in India," notes Mayur Mane, key account manager, Lubrizol Advanced Materials India Private Ltd. "We're able to build awareness about exciting new Lubrizol technologies and their value in modern coating formulations. We look forward to discussing with booth visitors how our latest products and expertise can bring value to our customers' brands through differentiated coating performance."

About Lubrizol Performance Coatings

Lubrizol is a market-driven innovator of specialty chemicals that solve today's challenges in the paints and coatings, printing and packaging, paper and textiles, plastics and composites, and digital print markets. More than just a supplier, we are a collaborator with extensive experience in surface protection, dispersion, adhesion, and barrier properties that enables us to enhance the performance, simplicity, and sustainability benefits of our customers' products. With a commitment to collaboration, applied science, and demonstrated value, our team of experts is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations for both the simplest and toughest requirements. Count on Lubrizol to make the difference.

About The Lubrizol Corporation

The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a market-driven global company that combines complex, specialty chemicals to optimize the quality, performance and value of customers' products while reducing their environmental impact. It is a leader at combining market insights with chemistry and application capabilities to deliver valuable solutions to customers in the global transportation, industrial and consumer markets. Lubrizol improves lives by acting as an essential partner in our customers' success, delivering efficiency, reliability or wellness to their end users. Technologies include lubricant additives for engine oils, driveline and other transportation-related fluids, industrial lubricants, as well as additives for gasoline and diesel fuel. In addition, Lubrizol makes ingredients and additives for home care, personal care and skin care products and specialty materials encompassing polymer and coatings technologies, along with polymer-based pharmaceutical and medical device solutions.

With headquarters in Wickliffe, Ohio, Lubrizol owns and operates manufacturing facilities in 17 countries, as well as sales and technical offices around the world. Founded in 1928, Lubrizol has approximately 8,300 employees worldwide. Revenues for 2016 were $6.5 billion. For more information, visit Lubrizol.com.

Media Contact

Mike Heil

+1 216-447-5176

Website: www.lubrizol.com

###





This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Lubrizol via Globenewswire

New Information Technology market report from Markets and Markets: "Biometrics as a Service Market - Global Forecast to 2022"

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 16:00:34

Biometrics as a Service Market by Modality Type (Unimodal (Fingerprint, Facial, Iris, Voice, Palm and Vein Recognition) and Multimodal), Application, Deployment Model, Organization Size, Industry, and Region - Global Forecast to 2022The growing demand for biometric authentication under various government initiatives and regulations has fueled the adoption of biometrics-as-a-service solutionsThe global biometrics-as-a-service market is expected to grow from USD 838.0 million in 2017 to USD 2972.8 million by 2022, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 28.82%. There is an increasing need for biometrics solutions for identifying and enrolling citizens for elections and voting purpose. Biometrics-as-a-service offerings provide more accurate identification and are more cost effective compared to traditional identification services. This is one of the major growth drivers for the biometrics-as-a-service market. However, concerns related to storage of biometric data on the cloud may prevent the end-users from adopting these solutions.Full Report Details atThe multimodal type of offerings is expected to account for the largest market share by 2022Multi-modal biometric authentication incorporates two or more modalities for authentication. Moreover, as they require multiple biometric credentials for positive identification, they are more secure as compared to unimodal solutions. Due to these benefits, multimodal offerings are expected to be deployed widely across various industry verticals.The mobile banking, payments, and authentication segment is expected to have the largest market size during the forecast periodFinancial institutions face an increasing need for reliable authentication techniques to protect against the increasing attacks. Moreover, biometric authentication provides additional security owing to the fact that biometric identifiers are virtually impossible to replicate and cannot be shared. Thus, the biometric-as-a-service offerings are gaining momentum for mobile banking, payments, and authentication applications, due to their exclusive ability to provide greater security in comparison to other traditional authentication methods.The public cloud segment is expected to have the larger market share during the forecast periodThe biometrics-as-a-service market has been segmented on the basis of deployment models into public cloud, private cloud, and hybrid cloud. The biometrics-as-a-service offerings are being adopted for public cloud as they provide ease of access and faster deployment. Moreover, public cloud is more preferred by the enterprises that have less regulatory hurdles and are willing to outsource their storage facilities either fully or partially. These benefits of public cloud deployments have helped in driving the growth of the biometrics-as-a-service market.North America is estimated to have the largest market in 2017, whereas Asia Pacific (APAC) is projected to grow at the highest rate during the forecast periodNorth America is estimated to capture the largest market share in 2017, and the trend is likely to continue during the forecast period. Large-scale funded programs and employee access monitoring in buildings are some of the factors driving the revenue growth in this region. Moreover, the increasing concerns toward national security have significantly driven the US biometrics-as-a-service market. On the other hand, the biometrics-as-a-service market in APAC is expected to witness an exponential growth and is projected to be one of the fastest-growing regions in the global biometrics-as-a-service market. This is mainly due to the various government undertakings for unique identification in countries such as India and China.In the process of determining and verifying the market size for several segments and subsegments gathered through secondary research, extensive primary interviews were conducted with key people. The break-up of the profiles of the primary participants is given below:* By Company Type: Tier I: 17%, Tier II: 50%, and Tier III: 33%* By Designation: C Level: 33%, D Level: 50%, and Others: 17%* By Region: North America: 33%, Europe: 33%, APAC: 17%, and RoW: 17%The key vendors profiled in the report are as follows:1. Fujitsu (Japan)2. BioID (Switzerland)3. HYPR (US)4. Aware, Inc. (US)5. M2SYS (US)6. OT-Morpho (France)7. Leidos (US),8. IriTech (US)9. SmilePass (UK)10. Accenture (Ireland)11. Fulcrum Biometrics (US)12. Certibio (Brazil)Research CoverageAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Recently published research from TechNavio, "Global Medical Aesthetics Market 2018-2022", is now available at Fast Market Research

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 15:56:09

The global medical aesthetics market is a contributing segment of the global medical devices market. From a top-down perspective, Technavio has analyzed the medical devices market as a related market to set the context, in which the global medical aesthetics market will be analyzed. The medical devices market comprises all the instruments, machines, implants, or in vitro reagents, which are used in diagnosis, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease. It is a highly diversified market in terms of products and technologies involved. Regulatory organizations such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) assess medical devices as per a pre-defined medical device development tool (MDDT) program. The MDDT is used to qualify tools that medical device manufacturers or sponsors can use in the development and evaluation of the safety of medical devices.Full Report Details atTechnavio's analysts forecast the global medical aesthetics market to grow at a CAGR of 7.29% during the period 2018-2022.Covered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global medical aesthetics market for 2018-2022. To calculate the market size, the report considers the revenue generated from the sales of medical aesthetics.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:* Americas* APAC* EMEATechnavio's report, Global Medical Aesthetics Market 2018-2022, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendors* Allergan* Dentsply Sirona* Galderma* Johnson & Johnson* Merz Pharma* Valeant PharmaceuticalsOther prominent vendors* 3M* ADIN Dental Implant Systems* Alma Lasers* BioHorizons* Biotech Dental* Cutera* Danaher* Deka Laser Technologies* Dentsply Sirona* Hangzhou Techderm Biological Products* Hologic* HI-TEC IMPLANTS* Lumenis* NDI Dental Implants* OSSTEM IMPLANT* Photomedex* SciVision Biotech* SGS Dental* Sinclair Pharma* Southern Implants* Straumann* Suneva Medical* Syneron Medical* Sweden & Martina* TRI Dental Implants* YOLO Medical* Zimmer Biomet* Zimmer MedizinSysteme.Market driver* Rapid advantages in technology* For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trend* Increasing global awareness about medical aesthetics* For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this report* What will the market size be in 2022 and what will the growth rate be?* What are the key market trends?* What is driving this market?* What are the challenges to market growth?* Who are the key vendors in this market space?You can request one free hour of our analyst's time when you purchase this market report. Details are provided within the report.Companies Mentioned in this Report: Allergan, Dentsply Sirona, Galderma, Johnson & Johnson, Merz Pharma, Valeant Pharmaceuticals, 3M, ADIN Dental Implant Systems, Alma Lasers, BioHorizons, Biotech Dental, Cutera, Danaher, Deka Laser Technologies, Dentsply Sirona, Hangzhou Techderm Biological Products, Hologic, HI-TEC IMPLANTS, Lumenis, NDI Dental Implants, OSSTEM IMPLANT, Photomedex, SciVision Biotech, SGS Dental, Sinclair Pharma, Southern Implants, Straumann, Suneva Medical, Syneron Medical, Sweden & Martina, TRI Dental Implants, YOLO Medical, Zimmer Biomet, Zimmer MedizinSystemeAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 09:00:14

FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Maxtech Ventures Inc.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCWire) - Maxtech Ventures Inc. (CSE:MVT). has issued a press release with the following headline:Maxtech Begins Manganese Research in ZambiaTo view this press release on the FSCwire website, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:If you would prefer, you can also view this press release as a PDF file, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:For more information on Maxtech Ventures Inc., or to see additional press releases issued by this company, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser: http://www.fscwire.com/public-company/Maxtech Ventures Inc.Source: Maxtech Ventures Inc. (CSE: MVT, OTC Pink: MTEHF, WKN: A1W3JE, ISIN: CA5777282073)Date: February 12, 2018Time: 3:00 AM EST--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Maxtech Ventures Inc. and disseminated through FSCwire.About FSCwireFSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.), is a global newswire dissemination, SEDAR, SEDI, and EDGAR / XBRL service provider.FSCwire is a full service global newswire dissemination company and is fully approved by all exchanges in Canada and the U.S. Press releases can be distributed for all sizes of public, private or not for profit companies and any other organization requiring news distribution. In addition to individual companies; public relations, communications and investor relations firms trust FSCwire to distribute press releases for their respective clients.In addition to newswire dissemination FSCwire also offers EDGAR, XBRL, SEDAR, SEDI, and additional services for publicly traded companies. For more information, please go to our website: http://www.fscwire.com Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2018 - FSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.)Medical Robots Market

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 08:49:50

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Medical Robots will enable the surgeons to perform surgeries with high precision. Medical robotics is a new and an emerging field of science. There are different medical applications that emerged such as laboratory robots, teleconsultation, telesurgery, rehabilitation robots, remote surgery, surgical robots, to assist deaf and the blind. Medical robots will be used in surgeries to reduce infection risk. Due to the usage of medical robots risks of patients is reduced and accuracy of surgeons will be increased.Medical robots market driven by mainly their acceptance in diversified fields such as an interventional cardiology, neurology, and orthopaedic surgery, among others provides gainful opportunities for the manufacturers in the market. Physicians were assisted by the medical robots to attain precise results in the complex surgeries. Rise in innovative technologies in medical field drive the growth of medical robots market. Need of technical professionals to perform surgeries and being more expensive are the major constraints in the medical robots market.A sample of this report is available upon request @The medical robots market is segmented on the basis of product type, application, enabling technologies, end user, and geography.Based on product type, the global medical robots market is segmented into Robotic Systemso Surgical Robotso Rehabilitation Robotso Non-invasive Radiosurgery Robotso Hospital and Pharmacy automation robotso Pharmacy automation robotso IV RobotsBased on application area, the global medical robots market is segmented into Neurology Orthopaedic Cardiology Laparoscopic OthersBased on enabling technologies, the global medical robots market is segmented into Gesture Control Machine Vision Speech/Voice Recognition Tactile SensorsBased on end-user, the global medical robots market is segmented into Hospitals Rehabilitation Centres Diagnostic Centres Radiological Centres Research LabsTo view TOC of this report is available upon request @Currently, robotic surgeries are performed for gynecological, urological, orthopedic, neurological, and gastrointestinal diseases .The scope and application of surgical robots usage is expected to increase over the years owing to their accuracy. Many leading medical device manufacturers enter into the medical robots market by acquiring small-scale surgical robotic system manufacturers. For instance, in 2013, Stryker Corporation has acquired Mako Surgical Corp. and in 2016, Smith & Nephew has acquired Blue Belt Technology that are popular surgical robotic system manufacturers for orthopedic surgeries. Rehabilitation robotics is yet another emerging concept in medical robotics and computer-assisted surgery industry. The involvement of robotic technology in the treatment and rehabilitation of paralyzed and amputees taken the healthcare sector to another level. Several companies now focus on developing advanced robotic prosthetics, orthotics, and exoskeleton. Increase in demand for advanced treatment methods for various severe diseases, increase in prevalence of cardiac and neurological disorders and cancer provides robust market growth. Technological advancements and applications of these technologies in critical surgeries propels medical robots market over the forecast period. Favourable government regulations boost healthcare assistive robots market growth. For instance, Technology-related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act (1988) stimulated the development of assistive technology devices by providing funds to the states. Growing awareness coupled with increase in efforts to promote robotic research will fuel growth of the medical robots market.Need more information about this report @Based on geographical regions medical robots market is segmented as 5 regions: Latin America, The Middle East and Africa, North America, Asia-Pacific and Europe.North America dominates the global medical robots market over the forecast period owing to increase in awareness in the physicians towards use of innovative technologies creates lucrative opportunities for medical robots manufacturers. Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow with high CAGR due to evolving healthcare infrastructure in the region driving the medical robots market. In Japan, favourable government initiatives such as robot revolution realization council provides regulatory reform and support to develop highest level of artificial intelligence technologies in healthcare are expected to contribute growth for the medical robots market in Asia-Pacific region.Some of the players in medical robots market are Stryker Corporation (U.S.), Vecna Robotics (U.S.), Varian Medical Systems (U.S.), Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (U.S.), Kirbey lester (U.S.), Hocoma AG (Switzerland), Houston Medical Robotics, Inc. (U.S.), Kinova Robotics (Canada), IRobot Corporation (U.S.)and Otto Bock Healthcare (Germany).Get access to full summary @About Precision Business InsightsPrecision Business Insights is one of the leading market research and business consulting firm, which follow a holistic approach to solve needs of the clients. We adopt and implement proven research methodologies to achieve better results. We help our clients by providing actionable insights and strategies to make better decisions. We provide consulting, syndicated and customised market research services based on our client needs.Email: sales@ precisionbusinessinsights.comFast Market Research recommends "Restaurants in South Africa (2017) - Market Sizes" from Global Markets Direct, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 15:48:42

Restaurants in South Africa by Mintel Market Sizes provides you with annual year-end market size data, most recently updated in 2017. This report covers full service/traditional and fast food & takeaway restaurants. Market value is based on expenditure including sales tax by consumers and business in these outlets; market volume is based on numbers of outlets. Market size for Restaurants in South Africa is given in ZAR and outlet with a minimum of five years' historical data. Market Forecast is provided for five years. Included with this snapshot is socio-economic data for South Africa. Population, Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Exchange Rates.Full Report Details atReport Table of Contents:* Definitions* Retail market size* Highlights - strongest and weakest performers* Figure 1: Volume - Absolute size (2007 - 2021)* Figure 2: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 3: Volume - Growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 1: Volume (2007 - 2021)* Figure 4: Value in Local Currency - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 5: Value in Local Currency - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 6: Value in Local Currency - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 2: Value in Local Currency (2007 - 2021)* Figure 7: Value in USD - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 8: Value in USD - Spend per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 9: Value in USD - Spend as a proportion of GDP (2007 - 2021)* Figure 10: Value in USD - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 11: Value in USD - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 3: Value in USD (2007 - 2021)* Market Segmentations* Figure 12: South Africa - Restaurants: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) number of outlets) (2007 - 2016)* Table 4: South Africa - Restaurants: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) number of outlets) (2007 - 2016)* Market Shares* Figure 13: South Africa - Restaurants: Company retail market share by volume (number of outlets) - 2015* Figure 14: South Africa - Restaurants: Company retail market share by volume (number of outlets) - 2016* Table 5: South Africa - Restaurants: Company retail market share by volume (number of outlets) (2015 - 2016)* Company & Brand details* Table 6: South Africa - Restaurants: Company Website Links* Compound annual growth rates* Table 7: Retail market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Socio-economic data* Figure 15: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Table 8: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 16: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Table 9: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Figure 17: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Table 10: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 18: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Table 11: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Sources of Data* Table 12: South Africa - Restaurants* Methodology* About MintelAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Bibi Jagir Kaur strongly condemned the incident at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib

Farmers can dispose off paddy straw using agricultural: DC FerozepurFast Market Research recommends "Butter & Yellow fats in China (2017) - Market Sizes" from Global Markets Direct, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:25:06

Butter & Yellow fats in China by Mintel Market Sizes provides you with annual year-end market size data, most recently updated in 2017. This market covers all butter, ghee and margarine & spread consumption including table and cooking. Market size comprises sales through all retail and non-retail sales. Market size for Butter & Yellow fats in China is given in tonne and CNY with a minimum of five years' historical data. Market Forecast is provided for five years. Included with this snapshot is socio-economic data for China. Population, Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Exchange Rates.Report Table of Contents:* Definitions* Retail market size* Highlights - strongest and weakest performers* Figure 1: Volume - Absolute size (2007 - 2021)* Figure 2: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 3: Volume - Growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 1: Volume (2007 - 2021)* Figure 4: Value in Local Currency - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 5: Value in Local Currency - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 6: Value in Local Currency - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 2: Value in Local Currency (2007 - 2021)* Figure 7: Value in USD - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 8: Value in USD - Spend per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 9: Value in USD - Spend as a proportion of GDP (2007 - 2021)* Figure 10: Value in USD - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 11: Value in USD - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 3: Value in USD (2007 - 2021)Full Report Details at* Total market size* Highlights* Figure 12: Volume - Absolute size (2007 - 2021)* Figure 13: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 14: Volume - Growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 4: Volume (2007 - 2021)* Market Segmentations* Figure 15: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2007 - 2021)* Table 5: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 16: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Table 6: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Figure 17: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Retail market segmentation by value (m CNY) (2011 - 2016)* Table 7: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Retail market segmentation by value (m CNY) (2011 - 2016)* Figure 18: China - Margarine/table spread: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Table 8: China - Margarine/table spread: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2011 - 2016)* Figure 19: China - Margarine/table spread: Retail market segmentation by value (m CNY) (2011 - 2016)* Table 9: China - Margarine/table spread: Retail market segmentation by value (m CNY) (2011 - 2016)* Market Shares* Figure 20: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Company retail market share by volume (%) (2013 - 2016)* Table 10: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Company retail market share by volume (%) (2013 - 2016)* Figure 21: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Company retail market share by value (%) (2013 - 2016)* Table 11: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Company retail market share by value (%) (2013 - 2016)* Company & Brand details* Table 12: China - Butter & Yellow fats: Company Website Links* Compound annual growth rates* Table 13: Retail market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Table 14: Total market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Socio-economic data* Figure 22: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Table 15: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 23: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Table 16: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Figure 24: Gross domestic product (tn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Table 17: Gross domestic product (tn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 25: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Table 18: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Sources of Data* Methodology* About MintelAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Fast Market Research recommends "Optic Neuropathy - Pipeline Review, H2 2017" from Global Markets Direct, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:16:02

Global Markets Direct's latest Pharmaceutical and Healthcare disease pipeline guide Optic Neuropathy - Pipeline Review, H2 2017, provides an overview of the Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology) pipeline landscape.Optic neuropathy is an inherited form of vision loss. Symptoms include eye pain or discomfort, numbness, tingling and clouding of vision. Predisposing factors include age, tobacco smoke, alcohol, cancer treating drugs, stress related chemicals, some antibiotics and cyanogens.Report HighlightsGlobal Markets Direct's Pharmaceutical and Healthcare latest pipeline guide Optic Neuropathy - Pipeline Review, H2 2017, provides comprehensive information on the therapeutics under development for Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology), complete with analysis by stage of development, drug target, mechanism of action (MoA), route of administration (RoA) and molecule type. The guide covers the descriptive pharmacological action of the therapeutics, its complete research and development history and latest news and press releases.Full Report Details atThe Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology) pipeline guide also reviews of key players involved in therapeutic development for Optic Neuropathy and features dormant and discontinued projects. The guide covers therapeutics under Development by Companies /Universities /Institutes, the molecules developed by Companies in Phase III, Phase II, Phase I and Preclinical stages are 1, 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Similarly, the Universities portfolio in Preclinical and Discovery stages comprises 3 and 2 molecules, respectively.Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology) pipeline guide helps in identifying and tracking emerging players in the market and their portfolios, enhances decision making capabilities and helps to create effective counter strategies to gain competitive advantage. The guide is built using data and information sourced from Global Markets Direct's proprietary databases, company/university websites, clinical trial registries, conferences, SEC filings, investor presentations and featured press releases from company/university sites and industry-specific third party sources. Additionally, various dynamic tracking processes ensure that the most recent developments are captured on a real time basis.Note: Certain content / sections in the pipeline guide may be removed or altered based on the availability and relevance of data.Scope* The pipeline guide provides a snapshot of the global therapeutic landscape of Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology).* The pipeline guide reviews pipeline therapeutics for Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology) by companies and universities/research institutes based on information derived from company and industry-specific sources.* The pipeline guide covers pipeline products based on several stages of development ranging from pre-registration till discovery and undisclosed stages.* The pipeline guide features descriptive drug profiles for the pipeline products which comprise, product description, descriptive licensing and collaboration details, R&D brief, MoA & other developmental activities.* The pipeline guide reviews key companies involved in Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology) therapeutics and enlists all their major and minor projects.* The pipeline guide evaluates Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology) therapeutics based on mechanism of action (MoA), drug target, route of administration (RoA) and molecule type.* The pipeline guide encapsulates all the dormant and discontinued pipeline projects.* The pipeline guide reviews latest news related to pipeline therapeutics for Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology)Reasons to Get this Report* Procure strategically important competitor information, analysis, and insights to formulate effective R&D strategies.* Recognize emerging players with potentially strong product portfolio and create effective counter-strategies to gain competitive advantage.* Find and recognize significant and varied types of therapeutics under development for Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology).* Classify potential new clients or partners in the target demographic.* Develop tactical initiatives by understanding the focus areas of leading companies.* Plan mergers and acquisitions meritoriously by identifying key players and it's most promising pipeline therapeutics.* Formulate corrective measures for pipeline projects by understanding Optic Neuropathy (Ophthalmology) pipeline depth and focus of Indication therapeutics.* Develop and design in-licensing and out-licensing strategies by identifying prospective partners with the most attractive projects to enhance and expand business potential and scope.* Adjust the therapeutic portfolio by recognizing discontinued projects and understand from the know-how what drove them from pipeline.Companies Mentioned in this Report: Amgen Inc, BioAxone BioSciences Inc, Ironwood Pharmaceuticals Inc, Quark Pharmaceuticals Inc, Regenera Pharma Ltd, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals IncAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Fast Market Research recommends "Peripheral Vascular Devices Market - Global Forecast to 2022" from Markets and Markets, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 15:53:18

Peripheral Vascular Devices Market by Type (Angioplasty Balloon, Stent, Catheters (Angiography, IVUS), Plaque Modification (Atherectomy, Thrombectomy), Hemodynamic Flow Alteration (Embolic Protection), IVC Filters, Guidewires) - Global Forecast to 2022"The global peripheral vascular devices market projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period." The peripheral vascular devices market is expected to reach USD 12.63 billion by 2022 from USD 9.09 billion in 2017, at a CAGR of 6.8%. Factors driving the growth of this market include rising geriatric population, increasing prevalence of atherosclerosis, and increasing preference for minimally invasive surgeries. On the other hand, availability of effective first-line treatments is expected to limit market growth in the coming years."The hemodynamic flow alteration devices segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate in the next five years." Full Report Details atThe hemodynamic flow alteration devices market is segmented into embolic protection devices and total chronic occlusion devices. The embolic protection devices segment is estimated to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period. The increasing demand for technologically advanced devices and rising number of endovascular surgeries are key factors driving the growth of this market."Angioplasty stents are expected to dominate the peripheral vascular devices market during the forecast period." The angioplasty stents market is segmented drug-eluting stents and bare-metal stents. The drug-eluting stents segment is the fastest-growing segment of the global angioplasty stents market. Technological advancements and regulatory approvals are driving the growth of this segment."Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR during the study period." Geographically, the peripheral vascular devices market is dominated by North America, followed by Europe in 2017. However, Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the fastest rate due to infrastructural development in its healthcare systems, the rising burden of peripheral vascular diseases (PVDs) in the region, and increasing health expenditure per capita in APAC countries.The primary interviews conducted for this report can be categorized as follows:* By Company Type: Tier 1-70%, and Tier 2-30%* By Designation: C level-62%, Director level-21%, Others-17%* By Region: North America-44%, Europe-29%, Asia Pacific-17%, Rest of the World-10%The key players in the peripheral vascular devices market include Medtronic (US), Boston Scientific (US), Abbott Laboratories (US), Terumo (Japan), Cordis (US), B. Braun (Germany), C.R. Bard (US), Biosensors (Singapore), and BIOTRONIK (Germany).Research Coverage:The report analyses the peripheral vascular devices market by type and region. Apart from a comprehensive geographic product analysis and market sizing, the report also provides a competitive landscape that covers growth strategies adopted by industry players over the last three years. In addition, the company profiles include product portfolios, developments, and strategies adopted by prominent market players to maintain and increase their shares in the market. Market research data, current market size, and forecast of the future trends will help key market players and new entrants make the necessary decisions regarding product offerings, geographic focus, change in strategic approach, and levels of output to remain successful.Key Benefits of Buying the Report:This report will enable both established firms as well as new entrants/smaller firms to gauge the pulse of the market, which in turn will help firms garner greater market shares. Firms purchasing the report can use one or a combination of the below mentioned five strategies for strengthening their market shares.The report provides insights on the following pointers:* Market Penetration: Comprehensive information on the product portfolios of the top players in the peripheral vascular devices market* Product Development/Innovation: Detailed insights on upcoming technologies, R&D activities, and product launches in the peripheral vascular devices market* Competitive Assessment: In-depth assessment of the market strategies, geographic, and business segments and product portfolios of the leading players in the peripheral vascular devices market* Market Development: Comprehensive information about emerging markets. This report analyzes the market for various peripheral vascular products across geographies* Market Diversification: Exhaustive information about new products, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments in the peripheral vascular devices marketAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Fast Market Research recommends "Global Chocolate Beer Market 2017-2021" from TechNavio, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:38:17

Chocolate beer is a beer that contains dark chocolate or cocoa. The most popular segments of chocolate beer are chocolate ale, chocolate stouts, and chocolate lager. Chocolate beer is more popular in the European and American countries. The growth of the chocolate beer market in these regions is mostly triggered by the increasing demand by the millennial population. The chocolate beer market is still in its nascent stage in APAC. Chocolate beer is slowly becoming popular among consumers in countries such as China and India and offers huge growth potential for players in the global chocolate beer market. The pubs and bars in India have begun offering chocolate beer to their consumers. The increasing number of craft breweries globally is another factor which will help the market grow during the forecast period.Technavio's analysts forecast the global chocolate beer market to grow at a CAGR of 11.58% during the period 2017-2021.Full Report Details atCovered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global chocolate beer market for 2017-2021. To calculate the market size, the report considers the sale of chocolate beer to individual consumers.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:* Americas* APAC* EMEATechnavio's report, Global Chocolate Beer Market 2017-2021, has been prepared based on an in-depth market analysis with inputs from industry experts. The report covers the market landscape and its growth prospects over the coming years. The report also includes a discussion of the key vendors operating in this market.Key vendors* The Boston Beer Company* D.G. Yeungling & Sons* Anheuser-Busch InBev* New Belgium Brewing Company* Sierra Nevada BrewingOther prominent vendors* Bell's Brewery* BrewDog* BUXTON BREWERY* Celt Experience Brewery* Deschutes Brewery* Dogfish Head Craft Brewery* Himburgs Braukunstkeller* Minhas Craft Brewery* New Glarus Brewing Company* Omer Vander Ghinste* Oskar Blues Brewing* Stone Brewing* SweetWater Brewing Company* The Brooklyn Brewery* Thornbridge Riverside BreweryMarket driver* Increasing number of craft breweries globally* For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge* Distribution challenges* For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trend* Online sales* For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this report* What will the market size be in 2021 and what will the growth rate be?* What are the key market trends?* What is driving this market?* What are the challenges to market growth?* Who are the key vendors in this market space?You can request one free hour of our analyst's time when you purchase this market report. Details are provided within the report.Companies Mentioned in this Report: Anheuser-Busch InBev, The Boston Beer Company, D.G. Yeungling & Sons, New Belgium Brewing Company, Sierra Nevada Brewing, Bell's Brewery, BrewDog, BUXTON BREWERY, Celt Experience Brewery, Deschutes Brewery, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Himburgs Braukunstkeller, Minhas Craft Brewery, New Glarus Brewing Company, Omer Vander Ghinste, Oskar Blues Brewing, Stone Brewing, SweetWater Brewing Company, The Brooklyn Brewery, Thornbridge Riverside BreweryAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Fast Market Research recommends "Drug Discovery Informatics Market - Global Forecast to 2022" from Markets and Markets, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 20:07:40

Drug Discovery Informatics Market by Function (Target Data, Sequencing Data Analysis, Molecular Docking, Library Preparation), Solution (Software, Services), End User (Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology, Contract Research Organization) - Global Forecast to 2022"The global drug discovery informatics market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.2%."The global drug discovery informatics market is expected to reach USD 2.84 billion in 2022 from USD 1.67 billion in 2017 at a CAGR of 11.2%. Growth in the drug discovery informatics market is mainly driven by factors such as rising R&D expenditure across the globe, increasing focus on drug delivery, and the need to control drug discovery and development costs. Impending patent expiries and the growing biotechnology industry are also expected to provide a wide range of growth opportunities for players in the market. On the other hand, the scarcity of skilled professionals and the high pricing and setup cost of informatics software are both factors that are expected to limit market growth to a certain extent.Full Report Details at"The sequencing and target data analysis segment is expected to account for the largest share in 2017."On the basis of function, the drug discovery informatics market is divided into sequencing and target data analysis, docking, molecular modeling, libraries & database preparation, and other functions. In 2017, the sequencing and target data analysis segment is expected to account for the largest share of the drug discovery informatics market. Factors such as the expansive application of informatics solutions in targeted analysis and the large amount of data generated during the drug discovery process are driving the growth of this segment."The software segment is expected to account for the largest share in 2017."On the basis of solution, the market is classified into software and services. In 2017, the software segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global drug discovery informatics market. The largest share of this segment is attributed to the fast and efficient management of data generated throughout the drug discovery process using discovery informatics software solutions."North America is expected to account for the largest share during the forecast period." By geography, North America is expected to account for the largest share of the drug discovery informatics market in 2017. Established pharmaceutical industry with the presence of leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies attributes to the largest share of North America. Europe is expected to account for the second-largest share of the drug discovery informatics market.Break-up profile of primaries:* By Company Type- Tier 1-45%, Tier 2-34% and Tier 3-21%* By Designation-C-level-36%, D-level-40% and Others-24%* By Region-North America-40%, Europe-22%, Asia Pacific-30%, and RoW-8%The key players operating in the drug discovery informatics market are IBM (US), Infosys (India), Schrodinger (US), PerkinElmer (US), and Thermo Fisher Scientific (US).Research Coverage:The drug discovery informatics market in this report is segmented by function, solution, end user, and region. The study tracks and analyzes competitive developments such as product launches, collaborations, agreements, partnerships, and acquisitions, and profiles key players and core competencies in the drug discovery informatics market.Reasons to buy this report:The report provides insights on the following pointers:* Market Penetration: Comprehensive information on portfolios offered by the top players in the global drug discovery informatics market. The report analyzes the market by function, solution, end user, and region* Product Development/Innovation: Detailed insights on upcoming technologies, research & development activities, and product launches in the global drug discovery informatics market* Market Development: Comprehensive information about lucrative emerging markets-the report analyzes the markets for global discovery informatics products across regions* Market Diversification: Exhaustive information about new products, untapped geographies, and recent developments in the global drug discovery informatics market* Competitive Assessment: In-depth assessment of strategies, products, and manufacturing capabilities of the key players in the global drug discovery informatics marketAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Fast Market Research recommends "Rice in Japan (2017) - Market Sizes" from Global Markets Direct, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 16:59:02

Rice in Japan by Mintel Market Sizes provides you with annual year-end market size data, most recently updated in 2017. This market covers all rice consumption including all packaged and unpackaged white and other rice. Market size is based on retail and non-retail sales. Market size for Rice in Japan is given in JPY and tonne with a minimum of five years' historical data. Market Forecast is provided for five years. Included with this snapshot is socio-economic data for Japan. Population, Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Exchange Rates.Report Table of Contents:* Definitions* Retail market size* Highlights - strongest and weakest performers* Figure 1: Volume - Absolute size (2009 - 2021)* Figure 2: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2009 - 2021)* Figure 3: Volume - Growth (2009 - 2021)* Table 1: Volume (2009 - 2021)* Figure 4: Value in Local Currency - Value (2009 - 2021)* Figure 5: Value in Local Currency - Unit prices (2009 - 2021)* Figure 6: Value in Local Currency - Value growth (2009 - 2021)* Table 2: Value in Local Currency (2009 - 2021)* Figure 7: Value in USD - Value (2009 - 2021)* Figure 8: Value in USD - Spend per capita (population) (2009 - 2021)* Figure 9: Value in USD - Spend as a proportion of GDP (2009 - 2021)* Figure 10: Value in USD - Unit prices (2009 - 2021)* Figure 11: Value in USD - Value growth (2009 - 2021)* Table 3: Value in USD (2009 - 2021)Full Report Details at* Total market size* Highlights* Figure 12: Volume - Absolute size (2009 - 2021)* Figure 13: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2009 - 2021)* Figure 14: Volume - Growth (2009 - 2021)* Table 4: Volume (2009 - 2021)* Market Segmentations* Figure 15: Japan - Rice: Market segmentation by volume (m tonnes) (2009 - 2021)* Table 5: Japan - Rice: Market segmentation by volume (m tonnes) (2009 - 2021)* Figure 16: Japan - Rice: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2009 - 2016)* Table 6: Japan - Rice: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2009 - 2016)* Figure 17: Japan - Rice: Retail market segmentation by value (bn JPY) (2009 - 2016)* Table 7: Japan - Rice: Retail market segmentation by value (bn JPY) (2009 - 2016)* Figure 18: Japan - Dry white: Retail market segmentation by volume (m tonnes) (2009 - 2016)* Table 8: Japan - Dry white: Retail market segmentation by volume (m tonnes) (2009 - 2016)* Figure 19: Japan - Dry white: Retail market segmentation by value (bn JPY) (2009 - 2016)* Table 9: Japan - Dry white: Retail market segmentation by value (bn JPY) (2009 - 2016)* Market Shares* Figure 20: Japan - Rice: Company retail market share by volume (%) - 2015* Figure 21: Japan - Rice: Company retail market share by volume (%) - 2016* Table 10: Japan - Rice: Company retail market share by volume (%) (2015 - 2016)* Figure 22: Japan - Rice: Company retail market share by value (%) - 2015* Figure 23: Japan - Rice: Company retail market share by value (%) - 2016* Table 11: Japan - Rice: Company retail market share by value (%) (2015 - 2016)* Company & Brand details* Table 12: Japan - Rice: Company Website Links* Compound annual growth rates* Table 13: Retail market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Table 14: Total market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Socio-economic data* Figure 24: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Table 15: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 25: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Table 16: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Figure 26: Gross domestic product (tn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Table 17: Gross domestic product (tn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 27: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Table 18: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Sources of Data* Table 19: Japan - Rice* Methodology* About MintelAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:03:01

NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NYNJA Group Ltd. (https://www.nynja.biz/), a global communications and mobile technology company, today announced NYNJA, the first international communications app with a built-in digital marketplace and cryptocurrency wallet. NYNJA is a cross-platform app that combines voice, text and visual messaging with robust and secure business management and e-commerce features, all powered by its own financial ecosystem and cryptocurrency, NYNJACoin. NYNJA, in development since Q1 2017, is currently in beta and the public token sale for NYNJACoin will launch on April 17, 2018.

"While there is no shortage of mobile messaging apps, there has never been an all-in-one communications app that seamlessly supports the messaging and transactional needs of both individual and business users with the utmost security protocols available today," said co-founder and CEO Salvatore Guerrieri. "NYNJA is the first app of its kind to harness the full potential of its user base, empowering them with a cross-platform multimedia messaging app and a built-in global marketplace backed by secure Blockchain protocols."

The NYNJA marketplace allows users to buy and sell goods and services internationally through an open API using NYNJACoin, the ERC20 standard cryptocurrency of NYNJA's integrated financial ecosystem. With NYNJACoin, users can also access exclusive groups and pay for proprietary in-group content such as licensed assets or timed consultations. Users can also earn NYNJACoin for viewing ads and sharing branded material like sticker-packs or coupons. Each account can be organized according to the user's social, consumer and business lives, and comes with a secure Ethereum wallet enabling users to transact freely within the app for fast international payment transfers without the need for costly external payment providers or internal platform fees. Completely scalable, the open-source platform will enable developers to build into NYNJA with the addition of value-add applications.

In addition to standard messaging features, NYNJA features scheduled messaging and translation. NYNJA is global, integrated and secure across every platform and device, and lets users make free Internet calls and transfer calls to any phone. NYNJA's architecture features secure encryption of cloud data storage for saving messages, images and files, and features a beautifully designed and intuitive interface highlighted by the app's patent-pending concentric wheel navigation system. The concentric wheel enables quick and easy navigation of the app using only one thumb and eliminates the use for back buttons.

"More than a quarter of the world uses mobile messaging apps, but the current class of apps falls short because they are either global but too basic, for example WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, or have adoption limitations due to being region-specific as in the case of Line and WeChat," said NYNJA co-founder and president Alejandro Gramont. "Furthermore, many messaging apps are geared primarily for personal and social use rather than business; and most business-class apps lack the capabilities required to truly qualify them as enterprise-grade. NYNJA is in a class of its own as the only all-encompassing, highly customizable communications app with a blockchain-based marketplace and financial ecosystem."

At launch the NYNJA app will be available on Android, iOS, and Web with native development of Mac, Linux and Windows versions to follow.

NYNJA's experienced team includes CEO and global entrepreneur, Salvatore Guerrieri; co-founder, president and COO Alejandro Gramont; chief technology officer, Plamen Minev and co-founder and chief strategy officer Marshall Taplits. Advisors include Michael Terpin, CEO of investor conference series, CoinAgenda; Ken Lo, CEO of ANX International, which is a leading service provider of blockchain payment solutions; and Howard Bilton, founder of The Sovereign Group. Miles Pelham, founder of Digitas Limited and Mun Shing Cheong, the general manager of ANX Digital, are also advisors.

For more information about NYNJA Group Limited, please visit: https://www.nynja.biz/.

Learn more about the NYNJACoin ICO at https://nynjacoinusa.com/.

About NYNJA

NYNJA Group Limited is a Hong Kong-based company creating the first international cross-platform communications app with a built-in cryptocurrency marketplace and crypto wallet. The NYNJA app combines voice, text and visual messaging with robust business management and e-commerce features, all powered by its own financial ecosystem and cryptocurrency, NYNJACoin. With NYNJACoin, users can exchange freelance services and virtual goods, as well as access exclusive content and earn tokens for viewing ads or using branded material.

For more information on the NYNJA app and token sale, please visit: https://www.nynja.biz/.

Media Contact:

Transform Group, nynja@transform.pr

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8d324656-a32a-4b7a-8dfb-a09ebb3e719fRecently published research from Global Markets Direct, "Oral Hygiene in Belgium (2017) - Market Sizes", is now available at Fast Market Research

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 05:06:23

Oral Hygiene in Belgium by Mintel Market Sizes provides you with annual year-end market size data, most recently updated in 2017. This market covers toothpaste, toothbrush and mouthwash and ancillary oral hygiene products. Market size comprises sales through all retail channels including direct to consumer and via dentists. Market size for Oral Hygiene in Belgium is given in EUR with a minimum of five years' historical data. Market Forecast is provided for five years. Included with this snapshot is socio-economic data for Belgium. Population, Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Exchange Rates.Full Report Details atReport Table of Contents:* Definitions* Retail market size* Highlights* Figure 1: Value in Local Currency - Value (2009 - 2021)* Figure 2: Value in Local Currency - Value growth (2009 - 2021)* Table 1: Value in Local Currency (2009 - 2021)* Figure 3: Value in USD - Value (2009 - 2021)* Figure 4: Value in USD - Spend per capita (population) (2009 - 2021)* Figure 5: Value in USD - Spend as a proportion of GDP (2009 - 2021)* Figure 6: Value in USD - Value growth (2009 - 2021)* Table 2: Value in USD (2009 - 2021)* Market Segmentations* Figure 7: Belgium - Oral Hygiene: Retail market segmentation by value (m EUR) (2015 - 2016)* Table 3: Belgium - Oral Hygiene: Retail market segmentation by value (m EUR) (2015 - 2016)* Market Shares* Figure 8: Belgium - Oral Hygiene: Company retail market share by value (%) - 2015* Figure 9: Belgium - Oral Hygiene: Company retail market share by value (%) - 2016* Table 4: Belgium - Oral Hygiene: Company retail market share by value (%) (2015 - 2016)* Company & Brand details* Table 5: Belgium - Oral Hygiene: Company Website Links* Compound annual growth rates* Table 6: Retail market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Socio-economic data* Figure 10: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Table 7: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 11: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Table 8: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Figure 12: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Table 9: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 13: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Table 10: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Sources of Data* Methodology* About MintelAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)Ovarian Cancer Treatment Market

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 10:59:47

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Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer, which affects ovaries it causes rapid and abnormal increase of cell growth in ovaries. The exact cause of cancer is still unknown. An epithelial tumour, germ cell tumour and primary peritoneal carcinoma are types of ovarian cancer. Common symptoms include pressure in pelvis or lower back, changes in bowel movements, tiredness or low energy and more frequent urination. In most of the ovarian cancer cases, cancer will not be diagnosed until it has progressed to an advanced stage. Ovarian cancer is one of most common cause of cancer deaths in woman. Thereby need for development of the more effective drugs in treatment of ovarian cancer.Increase in incidence of ovarian cancer worldwide is driving the ovarian cancer treatment market. According to WHO, an estimated 238,700 woman are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2012. The increase in older woman population, rising government funding and raising health care awareness able to grow ovarian cancer treatment market over the forecast period. According to ovarian cancer research fund alliance, the rate of prevalence of ovarian cancer is higher in woman between 55 to 66 years, many of the cancer foundations are funding to educate patients and healthcare professionals regarding symptoms and treatment options for ovarian cancer which may impact ovarian cancer market revenue growth positively over a forecast period. However, availability of generic drugs, lack of accurate diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and patient expiry of the key patented drugs like gemzar, taxol and paraplatin are expected to hamper the ovarian cancer treatment market.A sample of this report is available upon request @Ovarian cancer treatment market segmented on the basis of type of cancer, drug class, and stageBased on type of cancer, ovarian cancer treatment market is segmented into Epithelial Ovarian Tumor Ovarian Germ Cell Tumor Ovarian Stomatal Tumor Primary Peritoneal CarcinomaBased on drug class, ovarian cancer treatment market is segmented into Chemotherapeutic Agents Targeted Therapy Drugs Immune System Modulators HormonesBased on distribution channel, ovarian cancer treatment market is segmented into Hospital Pharmacies Retail Pharmacies OthersTo view TOC of this report is available upon request @Companies operating in ovarian cancer market investing in developing new drug therapies and finding newer molecular targets to treat ovarian cancer. For instance, Vintafolide an investigational targeted cancer therapeutic currently under development by Endocyte and Merck & Co. and faltetuzumab a monoclonal antibody being investigated for the treatment of ovarian cancer this was developed by Morphotek, Inc. The introduction of new drug therapies like gene therapy, radiation therapy and targeted drug therapy are projected to improve ovarian cancer market revenue growth over forecast period. Global ovarian cancer market currently dominated by generic drugs and development of more effective drugs is challenging for market players. Some of the new drugs like avastin, lynparza and yondelis are approved in recent years to treat cancer and these drugs are slowly capturing market share.Need more information about this report @Geographically ovarian cancer treatment market has been segmented into following regions viz. North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America dominates the ovarian cancer treatment market due to rising number of ageing population. According to American cancer society, in U.S. about 22,440 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer and about 14,080 women will die from ovarian cancer in 2017. Europe is largest market as the incidence rates of ovarian cancer is increased in the region.Some of the players in ovarian cancer treatment market include Eli Lilly and Company (U.S.), Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc. (U.S.), Novogen Limited (Australia) , Aeterna Zentaris Inc. (U.S)., GlaxoSmithKline plc (UK), Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH (Germany) and F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG (Switzerland) to name a few.Get access to full summary @About Precision Business InsightsPrecision Business Insights is one of the leading market research and business consulting firm, which follow a holistic approach to solve needs of the clients. We adopt and implement proven research methodologies to achieve better results. We help our clients by providing actionable insights and strategies to make better decisions. We provide consulting, syndicated and customised market research services based on our client needs.Email: sales@ precisionbusinessinsights.comPlasma Fractionation Market

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 11:18:10

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Plasma fractionation refers to the process of separation, extraction, and purification of plasma. Human plasma contains the large variety of proteins, however, only a few of these proteins are help in producing therapeutic plasma products. Plasma is used in prevention and treatment of various life threatening diseases caused by trauma, immunologic disorders, and infections. Plasma fractionation process is majorly used in treating protein deficiency condition in healthcare applications. The proteins extracted from the plasma are majorly categorized into three main classes: immunoglobulins which are useful in treatment of autoimmune disorders and increasing the immune response of the body, clotting factors which are help in treatment of blood disorders such as haemophilia, and the albumins which are useful in conditions of decreased albumin levels or during fluid loss. Plasma fractionation process is carried by different criteria such as solubility of the products, and their physical and chemical conditions such as ionic strengths, pH levels, and temperature, etc. The removal or inactivation of viruses and prions is an important function of plasma fractionation, and it can be carried by various mechanical and physical treatments for virus inactivation such as nano filtration, detergent/solvent treatment, heat treatment, chromatography centrifugation, ultrafiltration, and sterile filtration in order to achieve homogeneity of plasma, and reduce the risks of viral transmissions.Plasma fractionation market expected to grow at significant rate over the forecast period due to rise in the incidence of immune and bleeding disorders, increase in the use of alpha-1 antitrypsin and immunoglobulin, rise in prevalence of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD), emphysema, and haemophilia. In addition, development in plasma techniques and plasma utilization are the key factors expected to boost the plasma fractionation market. However, high cost for the plasma products, adverse effects associated with the plasma fractionation products, lack of reimbursement policies, stringent regulatory policies, and increase in the recombinant coagulation factors might hinder the growth of plasma fractionation market over the forecast timeframe.A sample of this report is available upon request @Global plasma fractionation market segmented based on the product type, application, and end userBased on product type, global plasma fractionation market segmented into the following: Albumin Immunoglobulino Intravenous immunoglobulino Subcutaneous immunoglobulino Others Coagulation factor concentrateso Factor viiio Factor ixo Factor xiiio Prothrombin complex concentrateso Von Willebrand factor (VWF) Protease inhibitors Other plasma fractionation productsBased on application, global plasma fractionation market segmented into the following: Neurology Haematology Immunology Rheumatology Haemato-oncology Critical Care Pulmonology OthersBased on end-user, global plasma fractionation market segmented into the following: Hospitals Clinics Academic Institutes Clinical Research LaboratoriesTo view TOC of this report is available upon request @Several international players are actively involved in the development of global plasma fractionation products. In 2015, immunoglobulins commanded for the largest share of the global plasma fractionation market due to rise in prevalence and incidence autoimmune disorders (according to International Journal of Celiac Disease, 2015 the world prevalence and incidence of Autoimmune Diseases are increasing, the global net percent increased per year prevalence and incidence of autoimmune disorders were 12.57.9 and 19.143.1 respectively). However, the protease inhibitors are expected to highest growth in the forecasting period, due to increasing use of proteases for respiratory diseases and growing application in various diseases. Partnerships, agreements, new products launch, collaborations, acquisitions and mergers, joint ventures, are being adopted by various key players in the global plasma fractionation market. For instance, in 2003, Probitas Pharma acquired Alpha Therapeutic from Mitsubishi Pharma, similarly, Octapharma acquired Mexican fractionator Probifasa S.A. de C.V. for developing the plasma products.Need more information about this report @Geographically, global plasma fractionation market has been segmented into following regions Viz. North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America dominates the global plasma fractionation market followed by Europe and Asia-Pacific. The largest share of North-America in global plasma fractionation market is due to increasing use of immunoglobulins in neurological diseases and increasing use of prophylaxis treatments for chronic diseases in this region (According to Centres of Disease Control (CDC), in 2012, chronic diseases were one of the leading causes of death and disability in the U.S., with an estimated 117 Mn adults suffering from some form of chronic disease). Europe is the second largest region for global plasma fractionation market due to the rise in aging population and increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to register significant growth rate over the forecast owing to the increasing aging population, growing using of albumin and immunoglobulin, and an increasing focus on better diagnosis, prophylactic treatments, medical research, and organ transplantations in Asia-Pacific regions.Some of the players in plasma fractionation market are Grifols S.A (Spain), CSL Ltd. (Australia), Shire (Ireland), Octapharma AG (Switzerland), Kedrion S.p.A (Italy), China Biologic Products, Inc. (China), Biotest AG (OGEL GmbH) (Germany), LFB S.A (France), and Sanquin (Netherlands) to name a few.Get access to full summary @About Precision Business InsightsPrecision Business Insights is one of the leading market research and business consulting firm, which follow a holistic approach to solve needs of the clients. We adopt and implement proven research methodologies to achieve better results. We help our clients by providing actionable insights and strategies to make better decisions. We provide consulting, syndicated and customised market research services based on our client needs.Email: sales@ precisionbusinessinsights.comPortable Ultrasound Devices Market

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 11:22:42

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Portable ultrasound is an imaging medical device uses the high-frequency sound waves to visualize the internal body organs. Portable ultrasound devices incorporate wireless features such as bluetooth and near-field communication to deliver sophisticated home-based healthcare for patients. Such wireless devices help increase mobility, connectivity, and portability. The portable ultra sound device contains a probe for the transmission of high-frequency ultrasonic sound waves into the patients body. These high-frequency sound waves reflected by body organs into the probe and are transmitted to a display and generate the image by using echoes. The portable ultrasound machine system is used to visualize kidneys, liver, human foetus, heart, blood vessels, and other internal organs. Major technological development in the portable ultrasound devices is increasing device ruggedness. These devices are commonly used in wide range of areas including emergency medicine, musculoskeletal imaging etc.Portable ultrasound devices market is growing at a significant CAGR due to the increase in the geriatric population and rising in the prevalence of various chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and various cardiovascular diseases. Increase in the spectrum of applications, and technology advancement in the manufacturing of portable ultrasound devices (3D and 4D) are the key drivers affecting the growth of portable ultrasound devices market. Similarly, increase in public-private partnership investments, rise in preference for minimally or non-invasive therapeutic and diagnostic techniques, higher healthcare expenditures might fuel the growth of portable ultrasound devices market. Moreover, increase in diagnostic imaging procedures by using ultrasound device, and increase in awareness for early disease detection are expected to boost the growth of portable ultrasound devices market. However, high cost for the portable ultrasound devices, risk of patient data storage, lack of skilled and experienced sonographers, and stringent regulatory policies for product approval are hamper the portable ultrasound devices market growth.A sample of this report is available upon request @The portable ultrasound devices market is segmented based on the device type, application, technology, and end users.Based on device type, the portable ultrasound devices market is segmented into the following: bedside devices Trolley/cart based devices Handheld devicesBased on application, the portable ultrasound devices market is segmented into the following: Traditional areas Radiology Gynaecology Cardiology Urology Others Emerging areas Emergency medicine Anaesthesiology Musculoskeletal OthersBased on the technology, the portable ultrasound devices market is segmented into the following: Diagnostics portable ultrasound devices 2D, 3D, and 4D technology Doppler technology Therapeutics portable ultrasound devices Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy High-intensity focused ultrasoundBased on the end-user, the portable ultrasound devices market is segmented into the following: Hospitals Diagnostic centres Surgical centres Ambulatory care centres OthersTo view TOC of this report is available upon request @Nowadays, the portable ultrasound devices market is in the flourishing stage with several local and international players are actively involved in the development of portable ultrasound devices. Launching of new products with advanced technology, approvals for new products from various administrative bodies such as U.S. FDA and EMEA, mergers & acquisitions, partnerships, collaborations are might fuel the growth of portable ultrasound devices market. For instance, in December 2011, Fujifilms acquired Sonosite for the development of high-quality imaging technologies and pioneering point-of-care expertise to drive next generation medical imaging solutions. Similarly, in May 2015, GE healthcare launched a new portable ultrasound system which is designed for frontline healthcare workers to help improve maternal health in developing regions; the device will enable clinicians to provide care to their patients even in the most remote of settings.Need more information about this report @Geographically, portable ultrasound devices market has been segmented into following regions Viz. North America, Europe, Latin America, Middle East & Africa, and Asia-Pacific. Europe expected to hold a largest share in the portable ultrasound devices market attributed to increasing incidence rate of chronic disorders, rise in the demand for advanced ultrasound systems, and presence of developed healthcare infrastructure expected to propel the portable ultrasound devices market. However, the Asia-Pacific holds a significant growth over the forecast period owing to, increase in the awareness about the ultrasound procedures and rise in the healthcare expenditure on are driving the growth of portable ultrasound devices market. In addition, the rapidly growing aging population in also helps the market players to invest in Asia-Pacific countries, which could contribute the growth of portable ultrasound devices market.Some of the players in portable ultrasound devices market are Fujifilm Holdings Corporation (Japan), Esaote SpA (Italy), Analogic Corporation (U.S), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), Siemens Ltd. (Germany), Hitachi, Ltd. (Japan), Toshiba Corporation (Japan), General Electric Corporation (U.S.), and Mindray Medical International Ltd (China) to name a few.Get access to full summary @About Precision Business InsightsPrecision Business Insights is one of the leading market research and business consulting firm, which follow a holistic approach to solve needs of the clients. We adopt and implement proven research methodologies to achieve better results. We help our clients by providing actionable insights and strategies to make better decisions. We provideEmail: sales@ precisionbusinessinsights.comPR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 06:57:37

Targeting New Diagnostic Tests and Improved Drug DevelopmentPERTH, W. AUSTRALIA, Feb 12, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - MedTech pioneer Proteomics International (PILL; ASX: PIQ) has entered into a strategic alliance with CPR Pharma Services (CPR), targeting the high growth area of clinical trials and related research, with an offer to acquire 10% of CPR's share capital through the issue of 4 million PIQ shares.This alliance will see Proteomics International applying its Promarker discovery platform to formulate a new series of predictive diagnostics and analytical services capabilities in compliment to CPR's position as an APAC-based leader in the provision of clinical services and laboratory testing in clinical trials.Dr Richard Lipscombe, Proteomics International Managing Director said, "This alliance with CPR Pharma Services presents a fantastic opportunity to expand our diagnostics portfolio, and increase revenues substantially. We see this alliance as adding significant new value to our already successful Promarker technology." Strategic RationaleIn combination, Proteomics International and CPR can offer a unique, R&D focused, Contract Research Organisation (CRO) capability specialising in companion diagnostics and clinical trials, with new Promarker companion diagnostic tests - which could save biopharma companies millions of research dollars and help bring treatments to market faster.The alliance will offer regional and local project management, certified bioanalysis, trial monitoring, data management and biostatistical services, analytical platforms of mass spectrometry and immunoassay for small and large molecules, sample storage and stability testing, and development of new methods and diagnostic tests.The strategic alliance with CPR builds upon Proteomics International's partnership with Linear Clinical Research Ltd (ASX: 15 Nov 2016), a specialist clinical trials site.Offer DetailsIn consideration for 10% of the fully diluted issued share capital of CPR, Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd will issue four million (4,000,000) fully paid ordinary PIQ shares. The deemed issue price will be the 30 day VWAP per share, and shares will be subject to a 12-month escrow period.Completion of the acquisition of shares in CPR is subject to receiving CPR shareholder approval by 28 Feb 2018. The transaction is due to complete 5 March 2018.By mutual agreement Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd and CPR may elect to undertake a secondary share swap of four million (4,000,000) PIQ shares against the provision of another 10% of CPR.About CPR Pharma Services ( www.cprservices.com.au) CPR is a privately owned, full service Contract Research Organisation (CRO) specialising in clinical services and laboratory testing in early phase clinical trials, with 80 highly skilled technical & operational staff across clinical, data management and laboratory services. CPR labs are FDA and EMA inspected with GLP and ISO 17025 accreditations.As a CRO, it enjoys a close relationship with Phase I clinical trial sites across Australia, leading to a strong position in S-E Asia markets with biotech and small-mid sized pharma, as well as a clientele throughout Asia and the U.S. Based in Adelaide, CPR has been offering its highly regarded services for over 10 years, with a turnover of $15 million in FY2017.About Companion Diagnostics (CDx)The FDA describes a companion diagnostic as essential for the safe and effective use of a corresponding drug. Companion diagnostics can identify patients who are most likely to benefit from a particular therapeutic product or most likely to be at increased risk for serious side effects or monitor response to treatment with a purpose of adjusting treatment to achieve improved safety or effectiveness. Proteomics International will apply its proven Promarker discovery platform to this market.About the Promarker(TM) technology platformProteomics International's diagnostics development is made possible by the company's proprietary Promarker(TM) biomarker discovery platform, which searches for protein fingerprints' in a sample. This disruptive technology can identify proteins that distinguish between people who have a disease and people who do not, using only a simple blood test. It is a powerful alternative to genetic testing. PromarkerD, the world's first predictive diagnostic test for diabetic kidney disease, is already developed and proven.About Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd (PILL) www.proteomicsinternational.com Proteomics International is the trade name for PILL (ASX: PIQ), a MedTech company focused on proteomics - the industrial scale study of the structure and function of proteins - and a recognised global leader in the field. It received the world's first ISO 17025 laboratory accreditation for proteomics services, and operates from state-of-the-art facilities at QEII Medical Campus in Perth, Western Australia. The company's business model uses its proprietary technology platform across the integrated areas of diagnostics, drug discovery and analytical services. Please see www.proteomicsinternational.com Please contact:Dr Richard LipscombeManaging DirectorProteomics International Laboratories LtdT: +61 8 9389 1992E: enquiries@ proteomicsinternational.com Investor Relations:Paul HartDirectorCanary CapitalT: +61 421 051 474E: phart@ canarycapital.com.au Media Contact:Susan Fitzpatrick-NapierDigital Mantra GroupT: +61 2 8218 2144E: team@ dmgpr.com Topic: Drug ApprovalSectors: BioTech, HealthCareFrom the Asia Corporate News NetworkCopyright  2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. A division of Asia Corporate News Network.PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 08:00:26

FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Rambler Metals and Mining plc--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Newfoundland (FSCWire) - Rambler Metals and Mining plc (TSX Venture:RAB). has issued a press release with the following headline:Rambler Achieves Record Throughput for 2017To view this press release on the FSCwire website, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:If you would prefer, you can also view this press release as a PDF file, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:For more information on Rambler Metals and Mining plc, or to see additional press releases issued by this company, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser: http://www.fscwire.com/public-company/Rambler Metals and Mining plcSource: Rambler Metals and Mining plc (TSX Venture: RAB, AIM: RMM, OTC Pink: RBMTF, FWB: 51R, WKN: A0EQZZ)Date: February 12, 2018Time: 2:00 AM EST--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Rambler Metals and Mining plc and disseminated through FSCwire.About FSCwireFSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.), is a global newswire dissemination, SEDAR, SEDI, and EDGAR / XBRL service provider.FSCwire is a full service global newswire dissemination company and is fully approved by all exchanges in Canada and the U.S. Press releases can be distributed for all sizes of public, private or not for profit companies and any other organization requiring news distribution. In addition to individual companies; public relations, communications and investor relations firms trust FSCwire to distribute press releases for their respective clients.In addition to newswire dissemination FSCwire also offers EDGAR, XBRL, SEDAR, SEDI, and additional services for publicly traded companies. For more information, please go to our website: http://www.fscwire.com Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2018 - FSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.)Fast Market Research recommends "Rice in UK (2017) - Market Sizes" from Global Markets Direct, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:02:59

Rice in UK by Mintel Market Sizes provides you with annual year-end market size data, most recently updated in 2017. This market covers all rice consumption including all packaged and unpackaged white and other rice. Market size is based on retail and non-retail sales. Market size for Rice in UK is given in GBP and tonne with a minimum of five years' historical data. Market Forecast is provided for five years. Included with this snapshot is socio-economic data for UK. Population, Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Exchange Rates.Report Table of Contents:* Definitions* Retail market size* Highlights - strongest and weakest performers* Figure 1: Volume - Absolute size (2007 - 2021)* Figure 2: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 3: Volume - Growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 1: Volume (2007 - 2021)* Figure 4: Value in Local Currency - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 5: Value in Local Currency - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 6: Value in Local Currency - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 2: Value in Local Currency (2007 - 2021)* Figure 7: Value in USD - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 8: Value in USD - Spend per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 9: Value in USD - Spend as a proportion of GDP (2007 - 2021)* Figure 10: Value in USD - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 11: Value in USD - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 3: Value in USD (2007 - 2021)Full Report Details at* Total market size* Highlights* Figure 12: Volume - Absolute size (2007 - 2021)* Figure 13: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 14: Volume - Growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 4: Volume (2007 - 2021)* Market Segmentations* Figure 15: UK - Rice: Market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2007 - 2021)* Table 5: UK - Rice: Market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 16: UK - Rice: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2013 - 2016)* Table 6: UK - Rice: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2013 - 2016)* Figure 17: UK - Rice: Retail market segmentation by value (m GBP) (2013 - 2016)* Table 7: UK - Rice: Retail market segmentation by value (m GBP) (2013 - 2016)* Figure 18: UK - Dry white: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2013 - 2016)* Table 8: UK - Dry white: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) tonnes) (2013 - 2016)* Figure 19: UK - Dry white: Retail market segmentation by value (m GBP) (2013 - 2016)* Table 9: UK - Dry white: Retail market segmentation by value (m GBP) (2013 - 2016)* Market Shares* Figure 20: UK - Rice: Company retail market share by volume (%) - 2015* Figure 21: UK - Rice: Company retail market share by volume (%) - 2016* Table 10: UK - Rice: Company retail market share by volume (%) (2015 - 2016)* Figure 22: UK - Rice: Company retail market share by value (%) - 2015* Figure 23: UK - Rice: Company retail market share by value (%) - 2016* Table 11: UK - Rice: Company retail market share by value (%) (2015 - 2016)* Company & Brand details* Table 12: UK - Rice: Company Website Links* Compound annual growth rates* Table 13: Retail market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Table 14: Total market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Socio-economic data* Figure 24: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Table 15: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 25: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Table 16: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Figure 26: Gross domestic product (tn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Table 17: Gross domestic product (tn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 27: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Table 18: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Sources of Data* Table 19: UK - Rice* Methodology* About MintelAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 18:18:02

Wessanen proposes Ivonne Rietjens for re-appointment to its Supervisory Board

Wessanen will propose to re-appoint Mrs Ivonne Rietjens as member of its Supervisory Board for a two-year term at its next Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, to be held on 12 April 2018. Her first appointment has been in 2012. Mrs Rietjens is Chairman of the NFSC.

Based on her extensive academic and scientific experience Mrs Rietjens has contributed significantly to shape Wessanen's Nutrition, Food Safety and Sustainability agenda. Mrs Rietjens is Professor of Toxicology at the Agrotechnology & Food Sciences department at Wageningen University.

Subject to approval of the AGM on 12 April 2018 in respect of the re-appointment of Mrs Ivonne Rietjens, the composition of the Supervisory Board of Koninklijke Wessanen N.V. will be as follows as per the end of the upcoming AGM:

Mr Frank van Oers (chairman)

Mr Rudy Kluiber

Mrs Ivonne Rietjens

Mr Patrick Mispolet

Media, investor & analyst enquiries

Ronald Merckx (CFO)

Phone +31 20 3122 124

Ronald.Merckx@wessanen.com

Important dates 2018

13-02-2018 Publication Q4/FY 2017 results

12-04-2018 AGM (14h00 CET)

20-04-2018 Publication Q1 2018 trading update

20-07-2018 Publication Q2 2018 interim results

19-10-2018 Publication Q3 2018 trading update

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Wessanen via Globenewswire

Fast Market Research recommends "Wine & Sparkling Wines in Indonesia (2017) - Market Sizes" from Global Markets Direct, now available

PR-Inside.com: 2018-02-12 17:03:19

Wine & Sparkling Wines in Indonesia by Mintel Market Sizes provides you with annual year-end market size data, most recently updated in 2017. This market covers red, rose and white wines, sparkling wines & Champagne. Market size is based on retail (off trade) and non-retail (on trade and food industry) sales. Market size for Wine & Sparkling Wines in Indonesia is given in IDR and litre with a minimum of five years' historical data. Market Forecast is provided for five years. Included with this snapshot is socio-economic data for Indonesia. Population, Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Exchange Rates.Full Report Details atReport Table of Contents:* Definitions* Retail market size* Highlights - strongest and weakest performers* Figure 1: Volume - Absolute size (2007 - 2021)* Figure 2: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 3: Volume - Growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 1: Volume (2007 - 2021)* Figure 4: Value in Local Currency - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 5: Value in Local Currency - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 6: Value in Local Currency - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 2: Value in Local Currency (2007 - 2021)* Figure 7: Value in USD - Value (2007 - 2021)* Figure 8: Value in USD - Spend per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 9: Value in USD - Spend as a proportion of GDP (2007 - 2021)* Figure 10: Value in USD - Unit prices (2007 - 2021)* Figure 11: Value in USD - Value growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 3: Value in USD (2007 - 2021)* Total market size* Highlights* Figure 12: Volume - Absolute size (2007 - 2021)* Figure 13: Volume - Volume Consumption per capita (population) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 14: Volume - Growth (2007 - 2021)* Table 4: Volume (2007 - 2021)* Market Segmentations* Figure 15: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Market segmentation by volume ((000) litres) (2007 - 2021)* Table 5: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Market segmentation by volume ((000) litres) (2007 - 2021)* Figure 16: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) litres) (2010 - 2016)* Table 6: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) litres) (2010 - 2016)* Figure 17: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Retail market segmentation by value (bn IDR) (2010 - 2016)* Table 7: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Retail market segmentation by value (bn IDR) (2010 - 2016)* Figure 18: Indonesia - Still wine: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) litres) (2010 - 2016)* Table 8: Indonesia - Still wine: Retail market segmentation by volume ((000) litres) (2010 - 2016)* Figure 19: Indonesia - Still wine: Retail market segmentation by value (bn IDR) (2010 - 2016)* Table 9: Indonesia - Still wine: Retail market segmentation by value (bn IDR) (2010 - 2016)* Market Shares* Figure 20: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Company retail market share by volume (%) (2012 - 2016)* Table 10: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Company retail market share by volume (%) (2012 - 2016)* Figure 21: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Company retail market share by value (%) (2012 - 2016)* Table 11: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Company retail market share by value (%) (2012 - 2016)* Company & Brand details* Table 12: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines: Company Website Links* Compound annual growth rates* Table 13: Retail market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Table 14: Total market compound annual growth rates (2012 - 2021)* Socio-economic data* Figure 22: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Table 15: Population (millions) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 23: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Table 16: Consumer price index (CPI) (2002 - 2021)* Figure 24: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Table 17: Gross domestic product (bn USD) (2003 - 2021)* Figure 25: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Table 18: Exchange rates (2003 - 2021)* Sources of Data* Table 19: Indonesia - Wine & Sparkling Wines* Methodology* About MintelAbout Fast Market ResearchFast Market Research is a leading distributor of market research and business information. Representing the world's top research publishers and analysts, we provide quick and easy access to the best competitive intelligence available. Our unbiased, expert staff is always available to help you find the right research to fit your requirements and your budget.For more information about these or related research reports, please visit our website at https://fastmr.com or call us at 1.800.844.8156 (1.413.485.7001 Int'l)The Nigerian Customs Service has said that the porous nature of the countrys borders is a major obstacle to their efforts to stem the influx of smuggled items.

The agency noted that smuggling is a global phenomenon and that even if all arms of Customs are posted to the borders, smuggled items would still find their way into the country.

Jerry Attah, the spokesperson of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, told PREMIUM TIMES over the weekend that there could be a level of connivance between some customs officers stationed at the borders and smugglers.

Federal Operations, Ikeja, is an anti-smuggling arm, asides anti-smuggling, we are more of police of Customs, Mr. Attah said.

We checkmate the activities of other Customs command. You will agree with me that our borders are very porous, and because of the porosity of these borders, that is why you still see smuggled items in the country.

There might be issues of negligence, there might not be issues of negligence but there is the issue of porosity of the borders. Some of these smugglers take advantage of the porous borders. We are not saying all Customs officers are saints because out of every 12, there is always a Judas.

That is why the management of Customs, in recent times, have dismissed those erring officers and we are still looking for those bad eggs in the service to be dismissed as well. Information from the public will help uncover those who are compromising the standard of the operation.

I can tell you categorically that those smuggled items find their way in through unapproved routes. If you joined all the arms of Customs officers in the country, there is no way we can man all the borders, that is the fact.

Last week, the Nigerian Customs Federal Operations Unit said they had seized 31 exotic cars worth N1,429,953,941 between 1st and 31st of January this year.

The vehicles, evacuated from car marts and an undisclosed residence, were seized due to non-payment of customs duty, according to the Controller FOU, Mohammed Uba.

They included four Rolls Royce, one Jaguar, one Bentley, one Porsche, two G Wagons and other exotic cars.

In continuation of our anti-smuggling operations, we have taken these vehicles because of non-payment of duty, Mr. Uba had said.

No matter what these smugglers do, we will not stop evacuation of vehicles which had contravened federal government policy.

We will keep them until their appropriate duty is paid or be forfeited to the government.

Asked about the cars seized by the agency last year, Mr. Attah said some of them have been confiscated as nobody had come forward with relevant customs papers.

The cars seized earlier, nobody has come forward for it. The Controller gave them option to provide relevant customs papers which nobody has provided yet. So, we have taken the vehicles to court for condemnation after passing through the 90 days process. Some of the vehicles condemned by the court are auctioned through our e-auction portal.

Parts of the seizure made between 1st and 31st January also included 8,400 bags of 50 kilogrammes foreign parboiled rice, used compressors, air conditioners and tyres.

Second-hand clothings, Indian hemp and jerry cans of vegetable oil were also seized.

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According to the Customs Unit, the total sum of the seized items in January alone is worth N1.6 billion.

The agency said the goods were intercepted along Lagos and Ogun roads after being smuggled from land borders.BFIGroup has threatened legal actions against the Minister of Mines & Steel Development, Kayode Fayemi, and the Director General, Bureau for Public Enterprises, BPE, Alex Okoh, over their continued defiance of the Supreme Courts ruling on the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria, ALSCON, Ikot Abasi.

The Executive Vice President/General Counsel of BFIG, Jimmie Williams, wrote to Messrs. Fayemi and Okoh alleging extreme injurious falsehood concerning their recent announcement of the signing of a fresh agreement with UC RUSAL to take over the plant.

On Sunday, January 21, 2018, Mr. Fayemi announced the signing of a renewed Share Purchase Agreement, SPA between BPE and the Russians over takeover plans expected to become effective in six months time.

The Ministers spokesperson, Olayinka Oyebode, who issued the statement said the new agreement was signed by Mr. Okoh and the Chief Executive Officer/member, Board of Directors of UC RUSAL, Vladislav Soloviev, in Mr. Fayemis office.

Mr. Oyebode said other witnesses included the Minister of State in the ministry, Abubakar Bwari; Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Nickolai Udovichenko; Managing Director of ALSCON, Dimitry Zavyaiov, and Head of Legal, UC RUSAL, Piter Maxsimov.

He said the agreement followed the approval of an out of court settlement of the lingering dispute over the ownership of ALSCON by the National Council on Privatization, NCP during its meeting of August, 2017 chaired by the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.

In announcing the new agreement, Mr. Oyebode said the exercise ends a decade of legal tussle with BFIG over the ownership of ALSCON.

BFIG Counsel writes Fayemi, Okoh

But, in a letter on Wednesday, February 7, to both the Minister and BPE DG, Mr. Williams denied the Minister and BPE DG negotiated any mediated resolution of its outstanding disputes over ALSCON. He described their roles in the latest agreement signing as extremely disrespectful and disturbing.

During the agreement signing, the Minister was quoted as saying the Russians were best placed to reactivate ALSCON, while BPE DG reportedly commended him for his commitment to ensure the success of the negotiation with the Russians.

As you are both well aware, there has not been any settlement involving ALSCON, Mr. Williams said in his letter titled: Publications of Injurious Falsehoods Against BFIGroup Corporation Concerning the Aluminum Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) Share/Sale Purchase Agreement.

Our (BFIG) litigation over the enforcement of the Supreme Courts order is continuing, and the Minister has not negotiated any mediated resolution of our outstanding disputes, he added.

He urged the Minister and the BPE DG to immediately retract their statements. Mr. Williams warned of serious legal consequences if they fail to do so. He noted that their continued unimpeded publications of these false reports are extremely injurious to BFIG.

Please be respectfully advised that we will resort to additional legal processes, if we do not receive a positive response to our requests, the BFIG counsel threatened.

No SPA to BFIG

In 2004, BFIG had emerged the preferred bidder for ALSCON with an offer of $410 million following the disqualification of UC RUSAL by NCP for submitting a conditional bid in defiance of the bid guidelines.

In line with the guidelines, a payment schedule approved during the May 20, 2004 pre-bid technical meeting of all parties was to apply. The preferred bidder to pay the initial 10 per cent of the bid price 15 working days after the signing of the SPA with BPE.

But, in the June 17, 2004 letter by BPE to BFIG, the privatization agency unilaterally altered the agreed payment schedule by demanding the initial 10 per cent of the bid price to be paid within 15 days of the receipt of the letter of notification as bid winner.

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BFIG said it sought for clarification from BPE on the discrepancy and was ignored. On July 9, 2004, BPE announced the disqualification of BFIG as the preferred bidder, alleging inability to pay for the initial bid price before the deadline.

BFIG went to court to enforce its contractual rights after BPE opened negotiations with UC RUSAL on terms to hand over ALSCON.

The case went all the way to the Supreme Court. On July 6, 2012, the sale of ALSCON to UC RUSAL was revoked and BFIG reinstated as the valid preferred bidder for ALSCON.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court issued an order of specific performance directing BPE to provide the mutually agreed SPA of May 2004 for execution to enable BFIG pay 10% of the accepted bid price within 15 working days from the date of execution of SPA.. The 90% balance was to be paid within 90 calendar days.

Apart from an order compelling BPE to accept payment of the 10% of the bid price from BFIG, the court gave a restraining order on the agency from inviting any further bidding for the sale and acquisition of ALSCON.

On October 8, 2012, ostensibly to carry out the Supreme Court order, BFIG said BPE sent to it a proposed 58-page SPA for review and approval pending execution.

The document covered a list of 17 key items, including financial statements, post-acquisition plan, liabilities, assets, gas sales and purchase agreements.

On October 24, 2012, BFIG said it revised and returned to BPE the SPA and requested for a meeting to discuss the details. BFIG said BPE ignored its request.

Rather, on January 29, 2013, BFIG said BPE sent an offer letter to Purchase 77.5 per cent shares of the ALUMINIUM SHELTER COMPANY OF NIGERIA, ALSCON, instead of ALUMINIUM SMELTER COMPANY OF NIGERIA, ALSCON.

BFIG said the letter was accompanied by a 16-page SPA and not the one it reviewed and returned to BPE earlier.

BFIG said the attempt to execute the SPA was stalemated, as it was not interested in acquiring the shares of the ALUMINIUM SHELTER COMPANY OF NIGERIA.

Frustrated, BFIG said on February 13, 2013 it decided to sign and return to BPE the copy of the SPA it has earlier reviewed in line with the Supreme Court order. But, BPEs refused to countersign.

BFIG filed an enforcement action at the Federal High Court, Abuja to compel BPE to fully comply with the Supreme Court order.

On September 30, 2014, Justice Abdu-Kafarati ruled that BPE should forthwith take full control and possession of ALSCON from anybody, including UC RUSAL et al. and prepare same for handover/transfer to (BFIG). But, BPE ignored the order.

In 2015, Dayson Holdings Limited, the special purpose vehicle used by the Russians to bid for ALSCON, filed an appeal seeking an injunction to restrain the enforcement of the judgment.

Although the injunction was granted, Dayson was given seven days to file its processes. But, it abandoned the case, thus foreclosing any attempt to sign any SPA until it was vacated.

Fayemis defiant posturing

In April 2017, Mr. Fayemi visited ALSCON based on the misinformation by BPE that BFIG failed to sign the SPA because it was broke.

During the visit, Mr. Fayemi assured the Russians of governments commitment to free the complex of any encumbrances, regardless of the pending Supreme Court rulings.

Although the Minister made efforts to get an out of court settlement over the crisis, BFIG said such efforts ignored the terms and conditions ordered by the Supreme Court.

For instance, BFIG Chief Executive, Rueben Jaja, said on August 2017 he was invited to a meeting Mr. Fayemi presided, with Mr. Okoh, and other officials in attendance.

During the meeting, Mr. Jaja said Danba & Associates Limited, led by its Chairman/CEO, Saadina Dantata, who claimed to be UC RUSALs agent, presented a proposal for BFIG to accept to relinquish its legal rights to ALSCON on the strength of the Supreme Court ruling of July 6, 2012.

Mr. Jaja said BFIG rejected the proposal and offered to refund to UC RUSAL what it paid for ALSCON as a condition to sign the SPA. He said the Minister rejected the offer.

On August 28, Mr. Jaja said the group later sent through Mr. Okoh an offer of $35 million, consisting $20 million initial payment, plus another $10 million spread over 20 years in the spirit of an amicable settlement.

Sanctity of Supreme Court ruling reaffirmed

On November 8, 2017, Justice Jude Okeke of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Maitama ruled in the case filed against UC RUSAL for interfering in its contract with BPE reaffirming the sanctity of the Supreme Court order of July 6, 2012 as the most viable option to resolve the lingering crisis over the sale of the ALSCON.

Following the ruling, BFIG said Dayson holding returned to the Court of Appeal, Abuja to file legal processes to reactivate the request for an injunction it abandoned in 2015.

But, BFIG said 48 hours to the Court of Appeal ruling on the application by Dayson on Tuesday, January 23, 2018, BPE decided to sign the renewed SPA with UC RUSAL to pre-empt the courts decision.

In his ruling, Justice A. D. Yahaya chided BPE and its allies over their continuous attempt to frustrate a specific and clear order of the Supreme Court to execute its judgment.

Consequently, Justice Yahaya vacated all injunctions that constituted a restraint to the enforcement of the Supreme Courts ruling on ALSCON.

Minister, BPE keep mum

When PREMIUM TIMES contacted the Minister for his comments on the threat by BFIG over the controversial agreement with the Russians, he did not respond to mails and text messages sent to him on Thursday.

But, his spokesperson, Mr. Oyebode sent a short response urging the reporter to direct his enquiries to BPE.

Thanks for your enquiry. You may wish to get across to BPE for further enquiries on the transaction, Mr. Oyebode said.

The BPE DG did not equally respond to mails and text messages sent to him. But, BPE spokesperson, Emeka Anwoh, promised to send a response initially by 11 a.m. on Friday after conferring with his principal on the issue. But, by the time of publication of this report by 11 p.m. he was yet to send the response.The chairman, Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, Lord Marland of Odstock, has asked the UK government to make Nigeria one of its post-BREXIT trading ally.

Jonathan Marland who was speaking ahead of the 2018 Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF), told The Telegraph of London that apart from Singapore and Malaysia, Nigeria offered some of the major investment opportunities for UK investors.

Nigeria is reputed to be the largest economy in Africa, while Commonwealth markets currently account for approximately 30 per cent of Nigerias exports.

Besides, Nigeria is Commonwealths fifth largest economy with a total GDP of about $480 billion, with India accounting for 15 per cent of Nigerias exports

Also, Nigeria and South Africa account for about 70 per cent of Commonwealth African trade

In 2015, Nigeria had a positive trade balance of $8.26 billion after exporting a total of $47.8 billion against imported $39.5 billion.

Britain is Nigerias second-largest trading partner, after South Africa, with the bilateral relationship worth around 3.8billion per year.

The CWEIC is an organisation facilitating trade and investment throughout the 53 states of the Commonwealth and supporting private sector companies and governments to promote economic activity.

If the UK wants to initiate something, there are one or two really encouraging, optimistic places on the horizon to start a block for a commonwealth trade zone. Youve got the big populations such as Nigeria, which is going to be 320 million people  bigger than the United States  in under 10 years. They love British productsIts a huge consumer market. Fundamentally there is a lot of disposable wealth, he added.

Asked which other products Nigerians were particularly keen to buy, he replied: Everything.

Mr. Marland said leaving the EUs customs union was one of UKs great negotiating strengths, as it would grant the freedom to stimulate trade by lowering tariffs and other trade barriers.

He said the benefits of doing so would extend beyond the Commonwealth as a potential free trade deal with Japan was already worrying German car manufacturers who rely on exports to the UK.

The CBF is expected to hold for the first time in 20 years alongside the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, CHOGM, scheduled for April 2018 in London.

Discussions would focus on easing the pathway for business and growth; harnessing Commonwealth technology and innovation; creating a new attitude to sustainable business; mobilizing an export economy, and attracting inward investment.

With the Commonwealths cumulative population at about 2.4 billion, the combined gross domestic product, GDP of the nations is expected to reach $14 trillion by 2020.

Intra-Commonwealth trade estimated to be worth $525 billion in 2015 is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2020.

CWEIC said its ambition is to encourage and grow intra-Commonwealth trade and investment, and assist member organisations in developing high quality trade and investment opportunities.

The CBF would convene 800 senior business leaders with approximately 30 Heads of Government at three Central London venues.

ADVERTISEMENTThe National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has advised Nigerians, especially youths, to love wisely as they prepare to celebrate Valentines Day on February 14.

Sani Aliyu, the Director General, NACA, gave the advice in a statement issued by the Head, Public Relations and Protocol of the agency, Toyin Aderibigbe, in Abuja on Monday.

According to him, since the valentine period is known as a time for young people to express love for one another, they should express such love cautiously, within the context of caring deeply for their loved ones.

The statement quoted Aliyu as saying: As we express love on this day, remember to love wisely.

As members of the wider society, your health and productivity is vital to the future of our country.

I urge you also to take advantage of the spirit of love and togetherness that the Valentines Day signifies to know your HIV status.

He said that knowing ones HIV status was necessary because of the present high prevalence rate of HIV infection among young persons aged between 15 and 24 in Nigeria.

It is important to reduce this worrying trend among Nigerian youths by encouraging faithful relationships; for those who cannot abstain from sex, the use of barrier protection such as condoms is advised.

Condoms prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), HIV and unwanted pregnancies.

The practice of having multiple sexual partners increases HIV vulnerability among the youth population alongside the very low HIV testing rates.

It is worthwhile to know that only 17 per cent of young people know their HIV status; as such this is alarming enough to make them avoid risky behaviours.

They should share love and not HIV, the statement further quoted the NACA boss as saying.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Valentines Day is celebrated every February 14; it is a symbolic day of romance whereby many people exchange cards, candy, gifts or flowers with their special ones.

Historically, some school of thoughts say that Valentines Day, which dates back to the 5t century, was named after a Christian martyr but has origins in the Roman holiday Lupercalia.

Others say that it was a pagan fertility ritual day which was held in February each year until a Pope abolished the festival and proclaimed February 14 Saint Valentines Day.

However, Chaucer, a poet in the Middle Ages, was the first to link St. Valentine with romantic love.

Over the years, people have been known to go overboard with the celebration especially as it has been inappropriately linked with romantic and sexual love, often resulting in people engaging in unprotected sex.

(NAN)

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Egyptian security forces killed 12 Islamist militants in gun battles and arrested 92 suspects, while airstrikes destroyed dozens of militant targets in Sinai, the army said in a statement carried on state television on Monday.

The army said, around 28 militants have been killed since Friday in the latest offensive to crush insurgents blamed for a string of attacks.

The latest statement said airstrikes had hit at least 60 militant targets.

President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi, who is seeking re-election in March, ordered the armed forces in November to defeat militants within three months after an attack on a mosque killed more than 300 people, the deadliest such incident in the Arab worlds most populous country.

The insurgency poses the greatest challenge to the government in a country that is both the most populous in the Arab World and a main regional ally of the U.S.

Mr. Al-Sisi was elected for his first term in 2014 after the army ousted Islamist President Mohamed Mursi following mass protests against his rule.

(Reuters/NAN)ADVERTISEMENT

The Speaker of the Libya House of Representatives, Aguila Issa, says no fewer than 2.5 million Libyans have registered to cast their ballots in the forthcoming 2018 general elections.

No fewer than 2.5 million people or almost a half of the countrys population have already registered to take part in the election.

Given that our population is between five to six million people, this means that Libyans want to participate in the election, the speaker said.

Libya has been in turmoil since the 2011 civil war that resulted in the overturn of countrys longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi.

The eastern part of the crisis-torn state is governed by its parliament, with headquarters in the city of Tobruk. The parliament is backed by the Libyan National Army headed by Khalifa Haftar, a general, which is engaged in struggle against militants.

At the same time, the UN-backed Government of National Accord, headed by Fayez Sarraj, operates in the countrys west and is headquartered in Tripoli.

In September, a UN Action Plan for Libya aiming to revive the countrys political process was proposed at the UN General Assembly.

The plan, in particular, provided for amending the Libyan Political Agreement in order to pave the way for the 2018 elections.

The plan has also envisaged the allocation of financial and technical assistance to the Libyan High National Election Commission to prepare and hold the votes.

(Sputnik/NAN)ADVERTISEMENT

U.S. Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson, said on Monday the U.S. supports Egypts fight against Islamic State but reiterated that Washington advocates free and fair elections in the country.

Mr. Tillerson stated this while addressing a joint news conference with his Egyptian counterpart, President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi.

He said that Washington remained committed to achieving a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians, in spite President Donald Trumps decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israels capital.

Mr. Tillerson arrived in Egypt at the start of a regional tour amid heightened tensions between Israel and Syria after an Israeli F-16 aircraft was shot down.

It also follows a major security operation by the Egyptian military to crush Islamist militants, who have killed hundreds of people since 2013.

We agreed we would continue our close cooperation on counter-terrorism measures, Mr. Tillerson said.

The Egyptian people should be confident that the U.S. commitment to continue to support Egypt in fight against terrorism and bringing security to Egyptian people is steadfast.

The Egyptian military campaign comes ahead of presidential election in March, in which President al-Sisi is seeking a second term in office.

He said that U.S. would supports a credible and transparent election in Egypt and Libya.

We have always advocated for free and fair elections, transparent elections not just in Egypt but in any country, Mr. Tillerson said.

The U.S. is always going to advocate for electoral process that respects rights of citizens, he told journalists, adding that the U.S was also keen to continue supporting Egypt in its economic recovery.

Mr. Tillerson also said in Cairo that it was up to North Korea to decide when it was ready to engage in sincere talks with the U.S.

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said in a newspaper interview that Washington and Seoul had agreed on terms for further diplomatic engagement with North Korea, possibly leading to direct talks without pre-conditions.

Mr. Tillerson told a news conference it was too early to judge whether this was the start of a diplomatic process.

(Reuters/NAN)WELCOME TO SHUWARI

At age 82, Bulama Kalla, a retired village head of Shuwari-Tomri, has no better place to relax on a hot day than under the big Jujube tree which is directly facing the communitys central mosque.

It is noon, and the rebellious sun has again defied the cold harmattan weather, heating up the chilly atmosphere that keeps every resident of the dusty village indoors from dusk to dawn.

It is January; one dares the cold at night. The best way for the elderly and the kids to avoid flu or pneumonia is to remain indoors till the sun is up and the shadows cast directly under the feet of the trees. But due to the dynamics of climate change, the weather has become very unstable of late: cold at night and hot in the day.

In between the Jujube tree and the mosque is a 40-year-old cement well  the only source of water for the entire community of about a hundred thousand people.

Shuwari is on the outskirt of the Borno State capital  not more than 3km from Maiduguri township.

In the past, Shuwari community was about 15km from the capital city. It is located along the popular Kano-Maiduguri road. But with the speedy development of Maiduguri township, the suburb has almost become part of the mega capital city.

At present, the village is sandwiched by the perimeter fence of the Nigeria Air Force base from the east and from the west lies the 1000-housing unit, an ambitious estate built by the state government in 2009.

A RIGOROUS DAILY ROUTINE

It is Bulama Kallas usual daily routine to sit and watch the children fetching water from the old well that would soon lose most of its water especially in March when it is the peak of the heat season.

The well is about 100 metres deep. And its water can only be fetched using a large tarpaulin fetcher tied to a long rope that passes over a wooden pulley. The pulley is dragged by two donkeys that must journey away from the well to an equal distance of the wells depth before a pail of water comes up.

Donkey waiting to pull out pail of water from a 30 years old well

A boy of about 15 years old would quickly grab the sack of water and empty it on containers lined up by other children.

At the other end, the little kid commandeering the donkeys would release the strap of the rope from the animals and the end comes speedily towards the well as the empty fetcher dives down the well.

And the process is repeated over again, till everyone around the well has his or her container filled up. But it takes much time for everyone to get water.

One could easily conclude that the above scenario perfectly matches the life lived by people during the Neolithic era, when pipe-borne water or even a wash-borehole was still a mirage.

But this is actually happening in the 21st century Borno State.

Since he clocked 70 over a decade ago, Bulama Kalla said he usually sits under the Jujube tree to watch his grandchildren and other kids of the village fetch water from the well.

Everyone in the village gives credit to him as the brain behind the existence of the well that was dug in 1981.

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But in the last 10 years, the retired village head can only listen to the chattering voice of the kids and the clanking hoofs of the donkeys as they labour to get water from the well. He is now blind.

As his vision gradually gets impaired, Bulama Kalla had to hand over his title to one of his sons, Bamalam Bulama.

In the traditional system of monarchical rule in Borno State, it is customary amongst the Kanuris, as well as the Shuwa-Arabs, for a child to succeed his father as village head.

This usually happens as a result of death or on condition of old age or health induced incapacitation.

In his advanced age as an octogenarian, Bulama Kalla seems not happy with the way things are in his community.

He also bemoans his years of wasted efforts during which he had participated in the electoral process of Nigeria, since the First Republic, with no meaningful democratic dividend coming to his community.

He said Shuwari community comprises of five distinct hamlets spread along the same axis, and it breaks his heart when he looks around and finds that in the over 60 years of his adult life, not even a single government project has come to his community.

AN ELDERS ANGUISH

We have five communities which are Shuwari-Tomri, Shuwari-Kaddari, Shuwari-Dagumari, Shuwari-Durumari and Shuwari-Manmari, Mr. Kalla told PREMIUM TIMES.

And all of these five communities, there is no means of getting water other than this well.

Bulama Kalla, Retired Village Head of Shuwari-Tomri

The old man still has a clear memory of how the well was dug some 37 years ago.

The well was built and commissioned in 1981 during the time of Muhammed Goni, the first civilian governor of Borno State, he recalls.

At that time we had one earth well behind the village over there. But it used to go dry as soon as the rains stop. So we made case through the then chairman of Konduga, Mukhtar Konduga and our councillor Mai Bukar Auno who came to help us complete this well which I personally used my resources to start digging. They came in and helped to complete it and cemented it in 1981, he said.

The well turned out to be the only government presence in the village from where both human and animal water needs are taken care of.

Since 1981 to date, no single borehole has been sunk in the communities despite their proximity to Maiduguri the state capital.

We hear that the new estate over there has modern boreholes and the people there drink clean water without waiting for donkeys to help them pull up the water. But here we are still living in the past, Bulama Kalla.

LACK OF BASIC AMENITIES

The eldest son of Mr. Kalla, who now functions as the village head, said apart from lack of water, the community has been in want of virtually all the basic amenities of modern life.

Just look around here, we live in thatched homes as farmers and herders, which is fine because it is what our means can afford, he said.

FILE: Out of school kids in Shuwari-Tomri,

But all we are asking all these years is not too much to ask from government that we pay our tax regularly since early 70s. My father still has documents and receipts to show his commitment to all kind of taxes and levies; including even education levies.

But here we are, our kids dont go to school because there is no school here  not even a single block of classroom; we dont have a single clinic unless we go far into Maiduguri, and this has been the reason our wives suffer during child birth, or our children die of ailments that could have been easily cured. There is no road leading to this community.

Hala Bulama, the deputy village head, said only a few members of the community can afford to allow their kids walk the long distance to the 1000-housing-unit primary school that was established some six years ago when the new housing estate was opened.

It is extremely dangerous for us to allow our little kids trek those long distance to attend the school within the 1000-housing-unit estate. All we need is a school here in our community but neither the local government nor the state has considered us for this basic demand, he said.

He said the state government cannot pretend not to be aware of their plight.

HISTORY

According to the history narrated to PREMIUM TIMES by the villagers, Shuwari community has been in existence long before the establishment of the present city of Maiduguri (otherwise known as Yerwa) to be seat of the Borno emirate.

Our village has been here for about a decade before the then Shehu of Borno moved the capital of the emirate from Bama to Maiduguri in 1907, said Mr. Kalla.

Residents of Shuwari-Tomri displaying their past & present voter cards

As a matter of fact, when the then Shehu of Borno, who is the father of the present Shehu was arriving Yerwa, it was our people here in Shuwari that formed part of the local residents that moved in to welcome him with a grand durbar. History has confirmed that we have been in existence here for over five years before the Shehu brought the capital of the empire here in Maiduguri. But look at us; we have nothing to show for it, we still live in the thatch houses with no single sign of development.

He said up till date, the Shehu of Borno still has some of his choice horses that usually accompany him for durbar in Shuwari villages.

FAILED PROMISES

Asked whether the community participated in most of the elections that brought past governments of the state to power, the deputy village head was handy with all documents to show how he led generation of voters from the community to help in putting various government in power.

An Education Levy receipt, a proof of payment for schools administrators by Bulama Kallami, yet there is no school for his people

Here are all of the documents to prove that my father the village head and his aged colleagues as well as we the children have been participating in all the elections that brought several government to office, he said.

The politicians, especially those from Konduga Local Government only remember us during the campaign seasons. But after that elections are over we will never see them again. They have promised to drill borehole for us, they have promised us clinic and even road, as well as agricultural tools, but none of these were fulfilled till date, he laments.

He said the major need of the community is healthcare facility and school for their kids.

Each time we go to the market we pay tax, said Mr. Bulama. And the tax collectors also come down here asking us to pay levies which we have been paying for a very long time now; my father has tax receipts dating back to 70s.

For a community with no school and in which most of the residents have not attended any school, some of the old receipts shown to PREMIUM TIMES were ironically titled Education Levy.

STATE INTERVENTION?

The Borno State Government has proposed a budget of N162 billion for 2017. Of this, N27.4 billion will go to the education sector that comprises three sub-sectors: the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Universal Basic Education.

For about N10 million, the State Universal Basic Education commission can erect two blocks of six classrooms in Shuwari communities, to at least provide basic education.

The Executive Chairman of the Universal Basic Education, Shettima Kullima said the government has plans to build more schools in this financial year. He said the community is one of those to be considered.

But he blamed the community members for not taking advantage of the primary school located within the 1000-housing-unit estate.

In the past schools are established in communities where there is a district head. Then the surrounding cluster of villages that are not more that few kilometres away would also send their wards to attend the schools, he said.

But sometimes, our people want government to bring everything to their doorsteps. However, all the same this government will not shy away from ensuring that every child gets education which is an inalienable right, he said.

The Borno State Government also plans to spend N5.4 billion on provision of water in communities around the state.

It cost only half a million naira to drill a hand-pumped borehole in Shuwari.

If the five hamlets that makes up the cluster villages of Shuwari could get two such boreholes each, the state government would only spend N5 million for the residents of these poor neighbourhood.

It is not certain if the water budget captures the need of Shuwari, Maiduguris closest neighbour.

The state commissioner for water resources, Zainab Gimba, could not be reached for comments as at the time this report was being filed.

As this reporter left the community, the voice of the Bulama Kalla remained in his head.

Please let the governor and local government chairman know that I will die the happiest man if he can only build a clinic, school, sink boreholes for us here in Shuwari, he said.ADVERTISEMENT

Barely 48 hours after the release of three lecturers of University of Maiduguri and 10 police officers wives by the Boko Haram, President Muhammadu Buhari has summoned an emergency security meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the meeting which started at about 11.00 a.m., is attended by all service chiefs and Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris.

NAN observed that the Minister of Interior, Abdulrahma Dambazau, might brief the council on some security related matters, as heads of para-military organisations under the ministry were seen at the venue of the meeting.

NAN gathered that the release of three lecturers of the University of Maiduguri and 10 police officers wife by the Boko Haram sect on Saturday might be part of matters to be discussed at the council.

It would be recalled that the State Security Services, SSS, on Saturday briefed President Muhammadu Buhari on the negotiated release of the lecturers and police officers wives.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, who announced the release in a statement in Abuja, recalled that those released were abducted by suspected Boko Haram terrorists at Magumeri in Borno.

He said their release followed series of negotiations as directed by President Buhari and was facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross.

(NAN)A prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of Adegboyega Adenekan, a supervisor at Chrisland Schools, on Monday gave graphic details of how the suspect allegedly raped a two-year-11-month old pupil of the school.

Olive Ogedengbe, a clinical psychologist with Friedlich Consulting, narrated the outcome of her psychological evaluation sessions with the victim and her mother.

Mr. Adegboyega, 47, was arraigned on January 29 before Sybil Nwaka of the Ikeja Division of the Lagos State High Court. He pleaded not guilty to a charge of defilement of a child.

Im here in respect of a child (name withheld) referred to me on account of sexual abuse  she was two years and 11 months old at the time, sometime in November 2016  by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team, Ms. Ogedengbe, the prosecutions second witness, began during her testimony.

The mother walked into our office alongside her daughter. She was looking very depressed and unkept and handed a referral letter over. I read the letter and the mother narrated her side of the story.

She said that somebody in her church handed her a book on sexual education on children. She read it and decided to practice it on her child saying little did she know that her child had already been defiled. She said she took her child to the toilet and told her not to allow anybody touch her wee wee and the child told her that Mr. Adenekan touches her wee wee.

The mother said she was shocked and is yet to get over it as at that moment. She further said that the child opened up to her that Mr. Adenekan usually takes her out of class and shows her some videos that were sexually stimulating. She pleaded with us to help correct her childs psyche.

The witness said after giving a session on human psychological groupings and the effects sexual abuse can have on the psychology of a child, she discovered that the victims intellectual capability was highly above average.

She is more mentally matured than her physical age so I decided to carry out an independent psychological evaluation.

We started an initial rapport with the child to gain her trust and when her trust was gained, I asked the child who touches your wee wee and the child repeated it on several occasions that Mr. Adenekan. I was shocked because I didnt expect it from a child her age. I brought out my assessment sheet and I told the child to draw anybody that comes to her mind and she restlessly started jumping around saying Mr. Adenekan is on my mind and she continued talking without yet drawing and she said Mr. Adenekan said it is good for a child to put her wee wee in Mr Adenekan wee wee. I was startled and at that point, I decided to do a recording to ensure that her story is consistent.

We told her to draw Mr. Adenekan wee wee and she demonstrated playfully by pointing her fingers to the upward stating sharpener sharpener so we said sharpener or pencil and she said sharpener. So we said draw it, we want to see how it looks like and to my greatest shock, a two year old child drew a picture that resembles the reproductive organ of a man in form of a penis. I now asked her to show me her wee wee and she pointe to her private part, I asked her to show me where Mr. Adenekan wee wee is and she pointed to her down part.

She was already restless and we wanted to hear more but she ran to her mother in a corner of the room and the mother continued probing her. She asked if she was the only one and she said he takes she and her friend (name withheld ) out of the class. We asked her to show us what Mr. Adenekan does to her friend, she said he kiss her bum bum and she demonstrated using a puppet.

Ms. Ogedengbe said findings from her observations, interviews and psychological assessments in the form of the drawing identified some symptoms in the child such as aggressive behaviour without provocation, inappropriate sexual behaviour like always wanting to view others naked bodies, sleeping problems, and fear.

The psychologist added that they were consistent with psychological research on symptoms of child sexual abuse.

After interactions, we realised that the child and the mother needed help, that is psychological intervention because the mother exhibited signs of post-traumatic stress disorder and we decided to do an intervention for the mother. We held two more sessions for the mother for psycho-social intervention and the mother was counselled on how to help and assist the child. I generated a report and forwarded it alongside with the CD (compact disc) to the coordinator of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team.

The prosecuting counsel, Jide Boye, prayed that he be allowed to play the video that was tendered in court as an evidence.

In the video, the child was seen making several sexual gesticulations while answering questions posed to her.

When asked what Mr. Adenekan does with her friend, she replied, Mr. Adenekan say your bum bum is sweet, I will lick your bum bum.

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Answering questions on the representation of what she drew, she said that is his hand he used to put in my wee wee. She also replied yes when asked if Mr. Adenekan put his wee wee in her wee wee.

During cross-examination, the defence counsel, Olatunde Adejugbe, asked the witness if there was a way of knowing whether the drawing that is claimed to be Mr. Adenekans manhood is actually his.

In psychological evaluations, we make use of projectile drawing where the client uses drawing to express what is on their mind. I agree I cant compare but the drawing took the place of a penis, Ms. Ogedengbe said.

When asked what efforts she made to contact the victims friend mentioned in her narration, the witness said, we found out about the mother and contacted her but because of the stigma she said she didnt want to be involved so we couldnt confirm.

Asked what she meant by the childs intellect being far above average, Ms. Ogedengbe said, for children between 0-5years, their language ability is usually incoherent but this child was able to make meaningful words. Also, for a child that age, when you give them paper to draw, they only make meaningless lines but she could make meaningful drawings.

When asked if she is aware a child could repeat what has been repeatedly recited to her, she agreed to its possibility.

During re-examination of the witness, Mr. Boye asked if the childs response could have led her to conclude that she was merely reciting what she was told, Ms. Ogedengbe said, what I perceieved for this child is that if she had been tutored, she would miss her lines and you will see it in her non-verbal behaviour because she wont be bold to repeat it to a stranger consistently but in her case her answers were consistent all through so, in this case, I believe the child has not been tutored.

The case was adjourned to March 21 for the continuation of trial.

The prosecution called their first witness, an ex-social worker, to testify on February 6.ADVERTISEMENT

Two officers of the Nigeria Civil Defence Corps have been found dead in Benue State following a gun battle with armed attackers suspected to be herdsmen, PREMIUM TIMES has learnt.

They were in a gun duel with the herders and, unfortunately, we lost two, NSCDC spokesperson, Emmanuel Okeh, told PREMIUM TIMES by telephone Monday evening.

The attack occurred in Guma Local Government Area of the state.

Some residents of the area told PREMIUM TIMES that four NSCDC officers were killed in the attack, but Mr. Okeh told PREMIUM TIMES he could only confirm two.

The remains of the officers have been taken to the Benue State Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, the state capital, he said.

The news came hours after the police confirmed the killing of one of their officers in the neighbouring Logo Local Government Area on Monday morning.

The officer was amongst the four mobile policemen that went missing in an ambush by suspected herdsmen on Saturday afternoon.

Both Logo and Guma LGAs were attacked on January 1 during which more than a hundred villagers were killed.

Seventy-two bodies were buried in a mass grave near Makurdi by the state government on January 12.The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has dismissed claims by Air Peace that its aircraft was burgled.

The air carrier had claimed that the rear cargo hold of its Flight 7138 holding for departure on Runway 18R of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos was opened by thieves on February 8.

But the aviation regulatory body in a statement by its spokesperson, Sam Adurogboye, described the airlines allegation as unfounded.

The NCAA stated that their investigation proved that the burglary incident never occurred after it reviewed all the reports from the relevant agencies concerning the incident.

Mr. Adurogboye stated that in line with Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs), aviation security personnel were at the holding point of Runway18R monitoring the departure/ take off of both Air Peace and Arik Air aircraft.

The PIC alarm, he explained, triggered an immediate response, adding that the escort team overtook the Arik aircraft for a more proximate field look and access to the Air Peace aircraft.

On full speed, with the full lights on, no person(s) was found within the vicinity of the aircraft. Importantly, the Arik aircraft, which was on queue immediately after the Air Peace aircraft, was similarly put on observation at this point.

The Arik Air aircraft also had its full complement of lights on towards the Air Peace aircraft having been aware of his counterparts conversation with the tower.

With benefit of this full view, neither movement nor any sign of person(s) was sighted around the aircraft.

At D45, the Airport Chief Security called the NPF-EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) team who reported with their equipment at about 2026hrs. Passengers were disembarked at 2028hrs.

The EOD team, joined by FAAN (Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria) Aviation Security and Air Peace security, conducted a search on the cargo compartment and the passenger cabin of the aircraft.

He noted that the search was completed at about 2055hrs and the aircraft was declared safe by the EOD Team leader and the flight departed and landed safely at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Against this background, the statement said, the NCAA came to the conclusion that the Runway 18R burglary report is unproven, largely unsubstantiated and, therefore, should be discountenanced.

But spokesperson for Air Peace, Chris Iwarah, in a statement said the airline remains unwilling to be drawn into unnecessary controversy with regulatory agencies.

Air Peace described the NCAAs report on the alleged burglary as both a lazy and shoddy job at cover-up, adding that the agencys claims that our information on the incident was a false alarm absolutely lacks a basis.

The statement said, From the report, it is clear that the only reason for NCAAs dismissal of the very serious security breach was the claim that when an aircraft of another airline beamed its lights after our pilot alerted the control tower to the incident, the suspected thieves were not seen.

We need to reiterate that our pilots call to control tower was made after the rear cargo hold of our aircraft was opened and shut after 15 seconds.

We, therefore, begin to wonder whether NCAA expected the suspected thieves to be there waiting after opening and shutting the cargo hold within a space of 15 seconds.

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The airline advised NCAA and other agencies to treat complaints of security breach at airports with the seriousness they deserve rather than the culture of baseless denial and attempt at cover-up.

PREMIUM TIMES recalls that in 2017, a private jet conveying two top Nigerian pop artists, Ayodeji Balogun aka Wizkid and Tiwa Savage from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State was allegedly robbed while taxiing on Murtala Muhammed airports runway 18L.

While Ms. Savage took to her social media pages to recount her ordeals, Wizkid kept mute over the matter.

But the FAAN, in its reaction dismissed the claim as incorrect.ADVERTISEMENT

A Lagos Division of the Federal High Court on Monday adjourned till February 14 to hear a motion in a suit seeking forfeiture of funds linked to former first lady, Patience Jonathan.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had begun fresh moves to seize the funds, including $6.4 million and N7.4 billion, in 15 bank accounts linked to Mrs. Jonathan.

The suit, which was fixed for hearing on Monday, was stalled following the absence of the judge, Mojisola Olatoregun, who was said to be attending a workshop.

Consequently, the case was adjourned until February 14 for hearing.

In two previous adjournments, EFCCs counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, had appeared before Mrs. Olatoregun seeking to move an ex parte application for a temporary forfeiture of the said funds.

The move was, however, interrupted by Mrs. Jonathans lawyer, Ifedayo Adedipe, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who challenged the courts jurisdiction to entertain the ex parte application.

He had told the court that the funds on which the EFCC seeks a forfeiture order were already subject of a pending litigation.

But Mr. Oyedepo maintained that Mr. Adedipe had no right of audience in the court, since his application was ex parte (without notice to other parties).

He argued that he wondered how the senior lawyer got wind of the application by the anti-graft agency in the first place, and urged the court to disregard his appearance.

The court upheld Mr. Oyedepos submission.

The judge then adjourned the suit and directed the EFCC to file an affidavit to convince the court that there were no pending suits in relation to the same subject matter before the court.

In the said ex parte application, the EFCC listed Mrs. Jonathan and one Esther Oba as respondents.

Also listed as defendants were: Globus Integrated Services Ltd., Finchley Top Homes Ltd., Am-Pm Global Network Ltd., Pagmat Oil And Gas Ltd. and Magel Resort Ltd.

The ex parte application is supported by a 15-paragraph affidavit deposed to by an investigator with the EFCC, Huleji Tukura.ADVERTISEMENT

A 25-year-old student, Ayodeji Ogunrinde, has confessed to breaking into a shop and stealing goods worth N680,000 as he was hauled up before an Ikeja Chief Magistrates Court in Lagos on Monday.

After the guilty plea, the Magistrate, Y.O. Ekogbulu, remanded the accused, who resides at Mushin, Lagos, in Kirikiri Prison pending sentence.

According to the prosecutor, Clement Okuoimose, the accused committed the offences on February 2 at 1.00 a.m. on Ajayi Road, Ogba, Lagos.

He said the accused conspired with others and burgled the shop of the complainant, Mrs Ansemen and stole goods valued at N680,000.

The accused broke into the shop of the complainant and carted away a television set, recharge cards of different service providers, phones, memory cards, and speakers all valued at N680,000, he said.

Mr. Okuoimose told the court that the complainant came to her shop and met the door flung open; she discovered that some of her goods had been stolen.

The complainant came to her shop that morning to discover that thief or thieves had carted away her goods.

She reported the case at the police station and few days later, the police caught the accused breaking into another shop to steal.

The accused was arrested while others escaped, he said.

The accused, who confessed to the crime of conspiracy, burglary and stealing, attributed it to the handiwork of the devil and pleaded for mercy.

The offence contravened Sections 287, 307 (2) and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Section 307 (2) prescribes seven years imprisonment for breaking into a house, while Section 411 stipulates two years for conspiracy.

The magistrate fixed February 15 to sentence the accused. (NAN)Some workers of the National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, on Monday pledged to support their reinstated Executive Secretary, Usman Yusuf, to reposition the scheme.

The workers staged a peaceful protest at the headquarters of NHIS in support of Mr. Yusuf under the aegis of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, ASCSN, and Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria MHWUN.

Uchenna Ewelike, a concerned NHIS staff, confirmed this during the protest to welcome back Mr. Yusuf as the substantive executive secretary of NHIS.

Mr. Ewelike expressed appreciation on the reinstatement of Mr. Yusuf by President Muhammadu Buhari.

He also urged Nigerians to support the reinstated chief executive officer to enable him provide a focused and result oriented leadership in the scheme.

We all know that Professor Usman has already brought to bear his expertise and wealth of experience acquired over the years, home and abroad, to address the lingering problems of the scheme.

We must all therefore give him the necessary support he may require to achieve this mandate for the benefit of all.

The task of putting NHIS in the front burner of the Nigerian Health System is enormous and realisation of its mandate is critical in attainment of Goal 3 of the Sustainable Development Goal, he said.

He urged NHIS staff to discharge their normal duties without fear of intimidation and harassment by a faction of staff union.

Mr. Ewelike called on all security agencies to act within the law and deal with anybody or group of persons with intention of breaking the law disrupting the peace within the work environment.

As public servants, we are guided by ethics of the profession and should not allow ourselves to be used by corrupt stakeholders who are not comfortable with reforms going on in the scheme.

The national unions of MHWUN and ASCSN should call the different factions of their local chapters in NHIS to order.

They should be advised to re-channel their energy in helping the enrolees who are either poorly treated or denied access on regular basis, Ewelike said.

Mohammad Gajo, another concerned NHIS senior staff, also lamented the achievement poorly recorded in the scheme over 13 years of its official launch.

It is saddening that in the past 13 years of the official launch of NHIS formal sector programme, we are still battling with single digit coverage.

Today, healthcare providers are not paid promptly by the Health Management Organisations (HMOs), enrolees are dissatisfied due to poor quality of service.

We are having low coverage of our population in the country when compared with countries at par with Nigeria, he said.

In this regard Usman was appointed by the President to sanitise the system, this he has commenced in earnest and we must support him in this laudable objective, Mr. Gajo said.

The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that on February 8, some members of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), and Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) had protested against the reinstatement of Yusuf as the substantive executive secretary of NHIS.

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Abdulrazak Omomaji, Chairman of ASCSN, demanded for a reversal of the reinstatement because Mr. Yusuf was under investigation by the EFCC and should not be allowed to hold any public office.

He pledged the support of the union to cooperate with EFCC to unravel alleged financial misdeeds rocking the scheme.

Mr. Omomaji urged EFCC to continue its investigation on the finances of the scheme for the benefit of enrolees and to strengthen healthcare delivery in the country.

NAN reports that there is normalcy in the premises of the agency while security agents were seen keeping vigil.

(NAN)ADVERTISEMENT

The trial of the alleged mastermind of October 1, 2010 bomb blast, Charles Okah continued on Monday, with the prosecution seeking to affix a stamp on an evidence already before the court.



The prosecution counsel, Alex Izinyon, told the court on Monday that his client would like to affix a stamp on the evidence alluded to by the first prosecution witness, John Afolabi, in April 2015.



Mr. Okah is facing trial for allegedly being behind the October, 1 2010 bomb blast which occurred at the Eagle Square, Abuja and resulted in the death of over a dozen people.



The prosecution has also alleged that the bomb blast was intended to kill the former president, Goodluck Jonathan.



Mr. Izinyon told the court on Monday that his client intends to regularise the said document by affixing the requisite stamp.



He noted that the document contains a list of items alluded to by Mr. Afolabi



Reacting to the application, however, the defence counsel, Oghene Otemo said the document intended to be regularised has been in court for a long time, and that his team had addressed the court on the failure of the prosecution to affix a stamp on the said document.



The application of the Prosecution Counsel is alien and unknown to law. It is unknown to the criminal procedure of Nigeria. Granting the application will amount to mistrial of the defendant.



Granting of application upon presented facts, at this stage of the case, will orchestrate a serious miscarriage of justice. It is an abuse of court process, Mr. Otemo said.



The trial of the accused has reached an advanced stage. Following the courts decision for Mr. Okah to begin his defence, earlier in 2017, the defendant ended the defence in December 2017.



The trial judge, Gabriel Kolawole adjourned the matter till February 21 for ruling on the prosecutions application.ADVERTISEMENT

A former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Salihu Belgore, and other eminent Nigerians will be at the launch of a book in honour of the registrar of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Is-haq Oloyede.

The book, which comprises 22 chapters and 579 pages, is entitled, Dynamics of Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, and was written by several scholars within and outside Nigeria. It majors on religion and other topics.

The book launch, scheduled for February 21 at the Shehu Musa YarAdua Centre, Abuja by 10am, will be chaired by Mr. Belgore. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Sulyman Abdulkareem, will be chief host.

Other dignitaries expected at the event are the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Saad Abubakar; Professor Afiz Oladosu of the University of Ibadan, who will review the book; and Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos, Wale Babalakin.

Yahya Imam, one of the editors of the book, said the launch is being organised in honour of Mr. Oloyede mainly for what he has done as a Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin from 2000-2012.

He actually turned round that university, Mr. Imam said. He is a pacesetter for all other vice chancellors in terms of what administration should be.

He did not stop there, ever since he became JAMB registrar, he has broken records. Oloyede has been able to recover seven billion naira in a year. In a country where most people are known for fraudulent behaviour, 419 and all that, he has stood out. Someone like him should be celebrated.

This launch is just an act of what a mentor should do for a mentee and he has given us his full permission.

Another editor, Abdul Hamid, said Mr. Oloyede is being honoured because he has contributed immensely to his Alma Mater, University of Ilorin.

He is a professor in the field of Islamic studies, Mr. Hamid said. He has contributed immensely to the development of the chosen field of studies, i.e Arabic and Islamic studies.

Mr. Oloyede, a professor of Islamic Studies, was President of the Association of African Universities (AAU).

He was appointed JAMB registrar in August 2016. He was also on the boards of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and the International Association of Universities (IAU).ADVERTISEMENT

The Nigerian Army has begun its 2018 practical promotion examination for 173 officers seeking promotion from the rank of lieutenant to captain, an official said.

The Examination President, Adeku Salihu, a major general, flagged-off the one week exercise at the headquarters of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, on Monday.

Mr. Salihu, also the Commander of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Minna, Niger, said the 173 male and female officers were drawn from formations and units across the country.

The candidates will be tested on their competence level, professional and intellectual ability in the discharge of their duties.

Candidates will be tested on tactics and low conflict; map reading; radio communication; skill-at-arms proficiency test; driving and maintenance; administration in field and French language.

The test is intended to prepare candidates to attain the senior staff course and ascertain their improvement, knowledge and standard to military profession.

The exercise will be used to assess candidates knowledge in command and tactical employment of a mechanised infantry company in all stages of war, he said.

Mr. Salihu also said that candidates must obtain a minimum of 50 per cent in each subject and 60 per cent overall, to pass the examination.

He pointed out that any candidate caught indulging in examination malpractice would be disqualified on the spot and charged.

The commander said the examination would be conducted by Directing Staff as the questions were drawn from the approved syllabus.

(NAN)The National Universities Commission has told Plateau State University, PLASU, to secure accreditation for 15 programmes before the end of May or face sanction.

The Vice Chancellor of the university, Doknan Sheni, disclosed this on Monday at a press conference at the institutions permanent site in Bokkos. He called the conference as part of the activities to mark the end of his five-year tenure.

According to the vice chancellor, PLASU has not managed to have any of its programmes accredited by the NUC since the university came into existence 12 years ago.

He said this hindered graduates of the university from participating in the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, scheme. But he said the challenge had been solved, although he did not disclose how.

In this next phase of accreditation of programmes, we need the 15 programmes to be accredited, he said.

We have no option because if we fail to meet up this time around, it means all the programmes affected will be suspended and the students wont graduate.

The vice chancellor said the university was being hampered by inadequate lecturers due to funding of the university and inadequate accommodation for staff and students.

He said the entire staff of the university, including the vice chancellor, live in Jos, the state capital, which is about 60 kilometres from the university.

Mr. Sheni said another challenge confronting the institution was insecurity, as unauthorised persons were gaining entrance into the institutions premises and harming the staff and students.

He lamented that hoodlums were harassing female students of the institution.

Apart from the harassment, there are one or two deaths resulting from such actions. Some of our staff were beaten up by some residents living around the university community. We also have cases of cows grazing on our land.

We had cause to report most of the cases to the police. Residents living in front of the university must be sent parking, he said.

Other challenges facing the university include its poor road network, shortage of potable water and lack of stable electricity.

On the positive side, Mr. Sheni said the institution had sponsored 64 lecturers, including 10 who obtained doctoral degrees from foreign universities,and are now teaching in the university.

He said the university intends to train 17 Ph.ds annually, who will in turn lecture in the institution.

Mr. Sheni said the university has increased its students intake from 300 at inception to 1500 this year.

The vice chancellor whose five-year tenure ends this month, thanked the Plateau State government for finding him worthy to serve the state in that capacity.

He appealed to the next vice chancellor to maintain high academic standard to enable PLASU compete among the 160 universities in Nigeria.

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He disclosed that the university had begun employing some of its best students from the first set.ADVERTISEMENT

A filling station manager has been arrested by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC in Abuja for allegedly diverting 26,000 litres of petrol, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, has said.

The Group General Manager, GGM, Group Public Affairs Division of the corporation, Ndu Ughamadu, disclosed this in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES on Monday.

The statement said about 26,000 litres of petrol were diverted from New Nyanya to another location in Akwanga, Nasarawa State.

According to an official of the NSCDC, Yusuf O. Ayinde, a Chief Superintendent of the Corps, the manager with Lamido Petroleum, New Nyanya, Nasarawa State, Mr. Kasim Lamido, took delivery of 40,000 litres of petrol

meant for his station but discharged only13,300 litres, from one out of the three compartments in the truck and diverted the remaining 26,000 litres to a station in Akwanga where it would be sold at a higher price.

The suspect would be charged to court by the Civil Defence Corps after the ongoing investigation, the spokesperson said.

The NNPC said the activities of a potent petroleum products smuggling and diversion syndicate has contributed immensely to the shortage being experienced in some cities and posed a challenge to the efforts by the corporation to sanitise the fuel supply and distribution chain across the country.

The statement also mentioned that the corporation was working in collaboration with key players to eliminate distribution hiccups which led to the emergence of fuel queues in parts of the country.

It further urged motorists not to engage in panic buying.

Mr. Ughamadu advised motorists to report any marketer selling petrol above N145 per litre or hoarding products to the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, which is statutorily empowered to deal with such issues.ADVERTISEMENT

The All Progressives Congress, APC, has mourned the passing of ex-senator, John Shagaya, who died on Sunday in a car accident.

Mr. Shagaya, who was referred to as a staunch party man by the party, is a retired brigadier general and an ex-senator who represented Plateau South. He was also a former Minister of Internal Affairs between 1985-1990.

The party said Mr. Shagaya, who died at the age of 76 was a great loss to the country.

We recall his excellent service during his sub-regional assignment as Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Commander. The late Shagaya also had distinguished tenures as Minister

during the Gen. Ibrahim Babangida military regime and Senator between 2007 and 2011, when he moved several motions and initiated bills for the good of the country.

Indeed, the passage of Shagaya is a great loss to the country, but we are consoled by the fact that he had a meaningful and impactful life as a soldier, an administrator and lately as a politician, who was driven by the

virtues of unity, patriotism, and selflessness, the APC said in the statement.

Also, the president of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has also expressed sadness over the death of Mr. Shagaya.

Mr. Saraki, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, described the late Shagaya as a fine officer and gentleman who during his lifetime, gave his all in the service of his country, both as a soldier and politician.

Shagaya would be remembered for his meritorious service to the country and the West African sub-region as an active member of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Mr. Saraki said.

He served this country in many capacities such as Minister, member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council and Chairman, Committee on Nigerias Membership of the Organization of the Islamic Conference.

He also served as a member, drafting committee of the main protocols for the Economic Community of West African States, member, National Boundary Commission and a Field Commander in the ECOMOG Peacekeeping Force in Liberia.

As a politician, he was elected to represent Plateau South Senatorial District in the 6th Senate where he contributed to various legislations aimed at enhancing the nations democracy. He was the Chairman, Governing Board of National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru in Jos, the Senate president recalled.

Mr. Saraki commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased and the government and people of Plateau State over the irreparable loss while calling on the Federal Government to immortalise the late army General.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara had earlier sent his condolences message via a separate press statement issued on his behalf by his spokesperson, Turaki Hassan.ADVERTISEMENT

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan Zonal Office, on Monday arraigned a former banker, Adejare Sonde, before the State High Court, Abeokuta, Ogun State on a 12-count charge bordering on stealing of about N124 million, forgery and altering of documents.

The defendant, who appeared before judge, A. A Akinyemi, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, Cosmos Ugwu prayed the court for a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendant in prison custody.

The counsel to the defendant, E. E. Jacob informed the court of a bail application already filed before the court. He thereafter prayed the court to allow the defendant remain in the EFCCs custody pending the hearing of the bail application.

Mr. Akinyemi granted the defence prayer and ordered that the defendant be remanded in EFCCs custody pending hearing of bail application.

The case was adjourned to Friday February 16, 2018 for trial and hearing of bail application.ADVERTISEMENT

A former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, on Monday condoled with the family of the late former senator and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, John Shagaya who died in an auto crash on Sunday.

Mr. Obasanjo in a condolence message described Mr. Shagayas death as shocking, noting that the late military officer served his country meritoriously.

I was shocked to receive the sad news of tragic death of Senator John Nanzip Shagaya. He will be sorely missed by his family, his community and his colleagues in the Senate and surely by his State and his friends and former colleagues in the military, he said.

The former president eulogised the late politician for having served his country meritoriously as a soldier, a military administrator and a lawmaker before he died after a tragic road accident.

May his soul rest in perfect peace and may God console his family, friends and peers, Mr. Obasanjo stated in the letter

Also, a former Vice President and Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has expressed sadness and disbelief at the death of Mr. Shagaya.

In a statement released by his media office in Abuja, the former Vice President described the late military officer as one of the remarkable and distinguished Nigerians of his generation adding that he would be sorely missed.

Describing the Mr. Shagaya as a wise and adaptable personality, Mr. Abubakar recalled the ease with which the Mr. Shagaya transformed from a military officer to a civilian and a democrat winning the confidence of his people to become an elected Senator.

He said Mr. Shagaya was a gentle and peaceful man stressing that, his invaluable counsel would have been very useful at this time of crisis in many parts of the country.ADVERTISEMENT

The Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, on Monday reaffirmed his position that restructuring holds the key to preserving the unity, stability and economic prosperity of the country.

Mr. Dickson stated this in Yenagoa while speaking with journalists shortly after his administrations 6th anniversary public lecture, with the theme, Restructuring: The Way Forward For Nigeria.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Francis Agbo, quoted the governor as saying that those championing the restructuring crusade are the true patriots of an egalitarian, just and fair Nigeria.

He called on all well-meaning Nigerians to support the restructuring movement towards actualising the Nigerian project.

Those in support of restructuring and constitutional amendment to address the imbalances in our nation are indeed believers of the Nigerian project and not the other way round.

Proponents of restructuring who formed a panel of discussants include, former Governor of Anambra State, Chukwuemeka Ezeife; President of Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, Shettima Yerima; spokesman of Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin; and founding President, Nigeria Oral Literature Association, Godini Darah.

They emphasised the need for more interactions amongst Nigerians, particularly the northern people to assuage the fears and misconceptions surrounding the issue of restructuring.

According to the panellists, a restructured Nigeria will promote self-reliance, productivity, proper utilisation of resources and reduce undue centralisation of power at the national level.

They also gave thumbs up to Governor Dickson for playing a vital role in the ongoing debate for restructuring the country, noting that the Ijaw nation had always been in the forefront in the quest for true federalism.

Delivering the lecture, Alani Akinrinade, a retired general, called on the federal government to take immediate steps towards restructuring the country in the best interest of the citizenry.

While stressing the need for state police, Mr. Akinrinade particularly urged President Muhammadu Buhari to initiate a bill to unbundle the overburdened centre by removing some of the items in the current Exclusive List.

By decentralising and devolving power from a bloated and overburdened centre to the margins, genuine federalism aims to liberate the local genius of the people and unfetter their creative and enterprising spirit.A former governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba, says he has never benefited from the outrageous pension packages for former governors and their deputies across states in Nigeria.

Mr. Osoba, who is also a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), also disclosed that the only amount he receives monthly from the government of Ogun State since he left office in 2003 is N676,000.

Speaking to journalists at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, at the weekend, Mr. Osoba said his monthly package is consistent with the provisions of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

During the administration of former governor Gbenga Daniel, Mr. Osoba disclosed that the state government did not pay his entitlement until some highly placed traditional rulers and other prominent people in the state intervened.

He said the N676,000 pension does not even cover the cost of fuelling his car in a month.

The tax that I pay to Ogun State yearly is in millions when you look at the balance sheet. I am putting more into the coffer of Ogun State than what I am taking from the state, he said.

I will only speak for myself. I cannot comment on others unless I have facts and figures indicating what they are collecting with what they are collecting in their various appointive or elective offices now. If I am holding any appointive office, I will rather collect all my entitlements because the N676,000 I am collecting from Ogun State cannot sustain me.

Mr. Osoba argued that the RMAFC made provisions for changing cars of former governors and their deputies every three years.

If the issue of car is covered under the law, it is their right and entitlement. Let us be honest with ourselves, in the 1999 Constitution, former presidents and governors are not by law allowed to hold any office with any multinational company or conglomerates.

The former governor, therefore, noted that he was not against the regular change of vehicles for ex-governors, because, former governors are endangered because they must have stepped on a lot of toes with the decisions they took while in office.

Mr. Osoba, however, condemned ostentatious lifestyles of former governors and deputies, saying the government can change a car as recommended by the RMAFC, but not a fleet of cars.

He said, That is too much (fleet of cars). Changing a car once in a while is not too much, though I have never benefited from this provision.

He explained that the only time the Ogun State government changed his car was when he turned 70 almost nine years ago, noting that the state government has not given him the privilege in the last 15 years.

He said, I do not mind because the way any governor lays his bed today is the way he will sleep on it tomorrow. If they leave office and ask for what they do not give to me, I will raise the alarm and fault them.

Like my medical treatment. I know how much I have spent, but nobody asked me. A lot of prominent Nigerians have asked me to demand it. But I refused to make such demand. I do not want anything scandalous.

For example, I had major health challenges last year, which led to my travelling to the United Kingdom for medical treatment. Between May and December, I was in and out of different hospitals.

But I am happy that I had successful surgeries. I do not use recommended glasses anymore, which has been part of me for over 70 years. I paid 20,000 deposit in one of the hospitals and by January 1 this year, I paid the 10,000 balance for the treatment.

The total cost of my treatment was nearly 100,000, but I refused to put the burden on the neck of Ogun State. As a former governor my health is part of their problem and if I die today, the state will bury me.

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But I just did not bother myself. Since the state government did not ask me about the medical procedure, when they knew what I went through, I did not bother them with the details. What I cannot afford in my private life I would not go for it in any public office I find myself.

The issue of outrageous pension packages has been a source of outrage for many Nigerians, as Houses of Assembly across the nation often enact different pensions laws, which award outrageous life pensions for the ex-governors in their states.

In July 2017, the Lagos State House of Assembly said it would amend the law awarding outrageous pension packages to its former governors.

Mudasiru Obasa, speaker of the House said, The intendment of this bill is to save taxpayers money while addressing the cost implication of some parts of the law.

In many states, the law allows former governors and deputies to have a house each in Lagos and Abuja, with several vehicles each.

Lagos assembly said with the amendment, both governor and the deputy will be limited to a house in Lagos where they served as well as have three and two vehicles respectively.

Key beneficiaries of the law are the states most recent governors, Ahmed Tinubu, now a leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress, and Babatunde Fashola, currently Nigerias power, housing and works minister.

The controversial law, available in other states, was first put in place by the Tinubu administration.The Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, has reacted to a bizarre report trending of a snake swallowing N36 million from the vault of one of its state branches.

The board said the case was that of pure criminality and fraud on the part of one of its staff.

Nigerians on social media have also been reacting to the disappearance of the cash in JAMBs Makurdi office.

According to a report in Sun news online, a mystery snake was said to have sneaked into the accounts office of the Board in Makurdi and stolen N36 million cash

Saturday Sun said a team of auditors was dispatched to different state offices of JAMB to take inventory of the sold and unsold scratch cards and recover whatever money that might have either been generated or mismanaged during the period of the sale.

JAMB candidates usually purchase scratch cards to gain access to the Boards website for either registration or for checking their admission status. But new reforms introduced by JAMB registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, who assumed office in 2016, ended the use of scratch cards, replacing it with more efficient and effective platforms.

A sales clerk, Philomina Chieshe, told JAMB registrar and his team that she could not account for N36 million she made in previous years before the abolition of scratch cards. In the course of interrogation, Philomena denied the allegations that she stole the money but confessed that her housemaid connived with another JAMB staff, Joan Asen, to spiritually (through a snake) steal the money from the vault in the account office, the report said.

The spokesperson of the board, Fabian Benjamin, said there was indeed a case of fraud and criminality in the Benue State office.

According to him, the registrar demanded the sale of scratch cards should be stopped in order to curb corruption.

It is natural for the office to account for what they have after the sale of scratch cards has been stopped and we discovered that lots of money was missing in Markurdi and other offices, Mr. Benjamin said.

He said investigation was ongoing to determine the kind of punishment that will be given to the suspect(s) involved.

There are procedures in the civil service so the whole thing is still under investigation. She was queried, she appeared before disciplinary committee, although she confessed that money was missing and a snake swallowed it. Unfortunately, she is calling one Joans name which did not appear in the investigation at all. Joan only recommended a house help for her, he said.

Of course, the management did not believe the story. She is just trying to put an excuse forward. These are things the registrar is trying to unravel to put the board on the right footing. We had a case where one of the staff said he had an accident on his way and the scratch cards got burnt but only for us to discover that they were used because they all had serial numbers, he said.

Apparently reacting to the bizarre report, the anti graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on its official twitter page @officialEFCC jocularly said: an eagle(EFCC) shows no mercy for money-swallowing snake(s).

A Twitter user Mr. aye Dee said: I wonder if people realise the hungry snake that wanted to register for JAMB but ended up eating N36 million from the JAMB office in Makurdi did this prior to 2015.

This naughty snake was discovered ONLY because Buharis admin decided to audit finances of JAMB offices nationwide.

Another user, Imoh Umoren, said: This is a strange country. November 2008: satellite we built for 40 billion disappears. September 2004: Ship laden with 30,000 barrels of oil disappears August 2017: Rats chase the President out of office February 2018: Snake swallows 36 million from JAMB. I need a beer.

A user, Wale Adetona, said: What kind of snake entered JAMBs office and didnt bite the gateman or the clerk but went ahead to swallow N36 million?

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See more reactions here :

https://twitter.com/GreatGracious/status/962395929889341441

https://twitter.com/ogbeni_opa/status/962410676114223104

https://twitter.com/surh__says/status/962364862952243201ADVERTISEMENT

The Chairman, Nigeria Governors Forum, Governor Abdulaziz Yari, on Monday said creation of state police would help in addressing spate of insecurity in the country.

Mr. Yari, also the Zamfara State governor, said this at the end of a two-day summit organised by the Senate Ad hoc Committee on Review of Current Security Infrastructure in Nigeria.

He said that, Today we have reiterated the position of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

And the position of the security summit we held in August, that there is a need for the state police; we can say it is the only answer.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Vice President had during the opening of the summit last week drummed support for state police.

He had said, We cannot realistically police a country the size of Nigeria centrally from Abuja. State police and other community policing methods are clearly the way to go.

The governor said that internal security was supposed to be handled and managed by the police, and that the police of today were inadequate.

There are about 4 million people in Zamfara and we have fewer than 5000 policemen.

We in governance agree that we can find a way through which we can fine tune the issue of state police, he said.

On the cost implications, Yari explained that, It is not all the states that are supposed to have the state police, those that could, should be able to have it.

It is something we cannot take off at the same time. We were created differently, he said.

He said that the issue of security was not something to play with, adding that the primary responsibility of any government is to ensure that lives and properties of citizens are protected.

Many challenges of Nigerians for the past ten years ranging from Boko Haram, cattle rustlers, armed banditry, and militancy in the Niger Delta are dwindling the Nigerian economy, and threatening the unity of the nation, Mr. Yari said.

(NAN)ADVERTISEMENT

The Commissioner of Police in Borno, Damian Chukwu, has expressed concern over the spate of rape cases in the state and called on victims to seek redress.

Mr. Chukwu said this while briefing journalists after the monthly police officers meeting in Maiduguri, the state capital on Monday.

He stated that proactive sensitisation measures were necessary to promote attitudinal change in the people and stressed the need to address the menace.

We are recording rape cases on a daily basis. You find a 60 year-old man defiling a four year-old girl.

I call on people to change their attitude toward rape suspects and stop making unnecessary pleas to save them.

It is disheartening to see victims families asking the police to drop charges against rape suspects.

Unless we change this attitude, we will continue to witness rape in the society, he said.

Commenting on the security situation in the state, Mr. Chukwu said that the command recorded four suicide bombing incidents in January.

Mr. Chukwu disclosed that the incidents occurred at Muna, Dalori and Konduga, while policemen neutralised two female suicide bombers while trying to infiltrate Dikwa Police Division.

He called on the communities to be vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to check suicide bomb attacks in the society.

The commissioner stated that the command had evolved effective measures to enhance its operations and protect lives and property in the state.

(NAN)ADVERTISEMENT

The Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has apologised to Catholic bishops for criticising them over their comments about the performance of President Muhammadu Buhari and the disenchantment of Nigerians over his (Buhari) governance style.

The clergymen who visited Mr. Buhari recently under the banner of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) warned the president to take urgent steps to win back the hearts of the people whom they said were groaning under heavy socio-economic and social burdens.

Reacting to the position of the clergymen, Mr. Bello had dismissed their warnings saying they (Bishops) were angry that they could no longer get paid tithes again from corrupt politicians and civil servants who had been crippled financially by the current anti-graft war of Mr. Buhari. Tithes are 10 per cent of income made by Christian faithful and paid to their local parishes and churches.

The governor, who reacted after observing Jumat prayer at the presidential villa on Friday, said since the Buhari administration had blocked avenues through which funds were looted, the corrupt can no longer pay tithes to churches.

His comment had opened up a floodgate of heated debate and condemnation across the social media.

Reacting to the controversy his comments generated, Mr. Bello in a statement signed on his behalf by his Director General of Media and Publicity, Kingsley Fanwo said he could never insult men of God as he had tremendous respect for the Catholic Community.

He said he would not do anything to belittle any religious organisation.

He said reports that he disrespected the Catholic Community and its leaders was another low by my detractors in their desperation to portray me as an irresponsible leader.

Mr. Bello said he knows genuine religious leaders of all faith are united in Buharis fight against corruption, and no good religion condoles corruption and corrupt people.

My statements to the press were misconstrued and misrepresented but I take full responsibility, for this as I tender my unreserved apology to the Catholic bishops and by extension my Christian brothers and sisters who are displeased with my statement on tithing.

I recognise the enormous contributions of the Catholic Church to entrenching a social order which is devoid of corruption, oppression and in the promotion of socio-economic justice.

The Catholic Church has done very well in promoting literacy and health care. I am quite familiar with a good number of Catholic priests and I know their stance on the issue of corruption. Every church and religion must fight corruption because corruption oppresses the poor and destroy justice and fairness, the statement said.

The Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN), prominent Catholic bishops, two Catholic groups, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, the Progressives Peoples Alliance, PPA, Archdiocese Emeritus (Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan), Alaba Job, and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Hassan Kukah, had earlier condemned the comments by the Kogi state governor.The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has commended Air Peace for extending its domestic flight operations to the state.

Mr. Sanusi made the commendation on Monday, after the airlines inaugural flight from Lagos to Kano landed at the Aminu Kano International Airport at 8.26 a.m.

The emir, who was represented by Ibrahim Sambo, the Jakanda Hausa (Hausa Ambassador), said the presence of Air Peace in the ancient centre of commerce was a welcome development.

Today is a historic day. The people of Kano are very happy because this airline has started operating from Lagos to Kano and Abuja to Kano.

Kano is the economic centre of the whole northern region, and aviation is very key to attracting investment.

So, it will boost the economy of Kano State because our people now have more options in terms of air travel, and increase competition among the airlines, he said.

Mr. Sanusi charged Air Peace to sustain its policy of on-time departure and expressed optimism that the airlines services would be patronised by the people.

Also, the Regional Manager, Aminu Kano International Airport, Mohammed Bello, said the airport authorities would give the airline the support needed for a seamless operation in Kano.

Mr. Bello advised the airline to make its fares affordable to encourage more patronage.

On his part, the Chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, said the airline was determined to increase connectivity within and outside Nigeria to ease the burden on travellers.

The launch of our Kano flight operations is a very significant milestone in our vision to unite our dear country, Nigeria, through air travel and lift the nations economy through trade facilitation and massive job creation.

Todays historic event accords with our strategy to expand our operations in the North of Nigeria and connect other unserved or underserved cities of the nation.

Kano has long been recognised as the economic capital of the North of Nigeria.

We are, therefore, hopeful that the extension of our flight services to the state will positively impact on the economy of the region, he said.

Mr. Onyema, who was represented by Air Peace Corporate Communications Manager, Chris Iwarah, said the inauguration of the Kano service would be followed with the commencement of its flight operations to Yola, Adamawa State on February 15, and Freetown, Banjul and Dakar on February 19.

According to him, the airline has in the last one year expanded its capacity to serve the flying public with the increase of its fleet to a size of 24 aircraft.

There is no doubt that we are now more positioned to transform air travel experience in Nigeria, the West Coast of Africa and beyond.

We are reputed for our on-time performance and uncompromising stand on matters of safety.

ADVERTISEMENT

We promise to leverage the experience of our skilled staff and excellent business model to end the era of endless delays on the Lagos-Kano-Lagos and Kano-Abuja-Kano routes.

We solicit your patronage and support as we operate twice daily from Lagos to Kano and back, once from Kano to Abuja and back and strive to deliver a whole new experience on the Kano route.

We are determined to forge a mutually beneficial relationship with the good people and residents of Kano and its neighbouring states, he said. (NAN)ADVERTISEMENT

The 23 Local Government Areas of Kaduna State have proposed a budget of N55.9 billion for the 2018 fiscal year.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 23 local councils appeared before the State House of Assembly Committee on Appropriation to defend their areas budget for the year.

A total of N34.8 billion, representing 62.24 percent of the budget, has been earmarked for recurrent while N21.1 billion which covers 37.7 percent of the total budget, would go to capital expenditure.

Chairman of the committee, Ahmed Mohammed, told journalists after the budget defence that the exercise was conducted smoothly and the total estimate of N55, 991,240,959.84 has been scrutinised by the members.

I believe each and every items put in the budget is put for a purpose to serve the local government and the entire state.

NAN reports that the 23 local government Sole Administrators had earlier defended their budget before the committee, with Lere local council having the highest budget size of over N3 billion and Kudan with the lowest budget of N1.5 billion.

The ALGON Chairman, Yahaya Sale, who spoke with journalists after defending the budget of Giwa Local Government, said it was a zero based-budget.

Mr. Sale said, We are looking at what we have presented; we have no problem because we have sat down with most members at individual local government level.

We have deliberated with them to locate gray areas and make corrections which is why the budget defence went on smoothly and all process was harmonised.

He called for more investments in rural areas in areas such as, building of schools, hospitals, road construction and giving services to people in communities at a cheaper rate.

(NAN)Armed persons on Sunday killed a farmer in Ekiti State with residents saying they believe the victim was killed by armed herdsmen.

The victim, Olayemi Tunde, was murdered on Sunday in Ipao Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area.

The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, when the victim was returning home from his farm.

Mr. Olayemi, a commercial motorbike rider, had a farm at the Ipao farm settlement, where he had gone to harvest cassava.

The attack is coming two days after the state governor, Ayo Fayose, vowed to resist the attacks by armed herdsmen within the state.

Violence between herdsmen and farming communities has caused scores of deaths across Nigeria in 2018.

A skirmish in January between some herdsmen and Tiv farmers in Ekiti resulted in the death of two persons, a situation which was brought under control with the timely intervention of the governor.

The state also operates an anti-open grazing law which regulates the activities of the herdsmen in the communities.

Confirming Sundays murder, the Chairman of Ikole Local Government Area, Abiola Ajayi, gave details on how Mr. Olayemi was killed.

The deceased was an okada operator who has a farm in the settlement. He had gone to his farm to harvest some cassava, she said.

He was with one other person. They were heading back to town from the farm and have loaded the motorbike with cassava when they saw some Fulani herdsmen coming towards them.

The two of them were said to have been surprised at seeing the herdsmen. The herdsmen were said to have brought out their guns and the two of the farmers had to run for their life.

The Bororos were said to have pursued the two men and eventually got Olayemi who they massacred like a cow.

We have reported the matter to the nearest police station and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) has since swung into action and sent two vehicles and they have gone to the scene of the murder to take the corpse and also commence investigation.

The head of the local hunters in the community, Adebayo Odeyemi, who was obviously grieved by the incident, said the hunters had declared war on the herdsmen and would not allow a repeat of the incident.

We havent attacked any herdsman but they have killed one person in the community now and right now we will ensure they are not allowed to do this again, he said.

We are valiant men, not cowards, and we will face them this time around defend the community, defend the farms. They have massacred one of us mercilessly and this wont happen again.

Efforts to get the police to respond to the development were unfruitful, as calls made to the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Alberto Adeyemi, were not answered.

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A former senator and chieftain of the All progressives Congress, APC, Ayo Arise, says he has a better chance of winning the governorship elections ahead of other aspirants in the party.

He said although he had respect for former governors, Kayode Fayemi and Segun Oni, he possessed the popularity to wrest power from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state.

Although Mr. Fayemi, who is also the Minister of Mines and Steel Development is yet to make public his intention to contest the July 14 election, Mr. Oni has declared that he would be taking another shot at the governorship seat.

According to Mr. Arise, the two former governors have contributed to the development of the state, but it was time for fresh blood to be allowed to rule the state.

The former senator spoke on Sunday at the SS Peter and Paul Catholic Pro Cathedral, Oye Ekiti, after a thanksgiving service on his release from the hands of kidnappers late last year.

Mr. Arise was kidnapped last year along Lokoja Abuja road while returning to the Federal Capital Territory after visiting Ekiti State and was held by his captors for six days.

Going by the mood in town, the people prefer a new person than those they have seen in the past, said Mr. Arise.

APC wants to win the coming election at all cost and they need a popular candidate and they knew I am the best for the job so that our strategy can work.

The APC knows how important the July 14 governorship election is to members. They need to apply the right strategy and they know who is fit to be able to defeat the PDP, and that is me.

Both Oni and Fayemi are my good friends. I contested as a senator when Oni vied for the governorship in 2007. The two of them have ruled Ekiti and now is my own turn.

Even if I step down for any of them, I can only guarantee them my own vote at the primary, because the delegates are adults who can take decisions on their own.

Mr. Arise also said he agreed with the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, that states should now operate their police to stem the tide of kidnappings and herdsmen menace.

Mr. Arise said it will be difficult for the current security agencies to tame the marauding herdsmen and kidnappers because many of them dont understand the terrain where they were operating.

I agree with the establishment of a state police. They can identify the people and when you allow the community to take charge of their own security, they will be determined to fish out criminals, he said.

Nigeria is so big that you cant be controlling security from the centre, it must be decentralised.A former senator and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Ayo Arise, has given details of how he was set free by kidnappers, after parting with N20 million as ransom.

He spoke on Sunday at the SS, Peter and Paul Catholic Pro Cathedral, Oye Ekiti, at a thanksgiving service on his release.

Mr. Arise was kidnapped along Lokoja Abuja road last December while returning to the Federal Capital Territory after visiting Ekiti State. He was held by his captors for six days.

Mr. Arise said he had a good reason to thank God for surviving the kidnap as not all persons kidnapped come out alive.

After my experience, someone was kidnapped and was still killed even after paying N25million twice, as ransom. So, how do you describe that? he said.

He recalled his ordeal at the hands of the kidnappers, noting that he was with the kidnappers from Sunday, December 3 to Friday, December 8, 2017.

I can assure you that its not an experience that youll want to have. Theres nothing more frightening than for you to know that you dont even know what would happen to you, he said.

He doubted that the kidnappers would ever consider engaging in other businesses, given the huge money involved.

He said he advised them to consider taking up up other businesses and live a better life after collecting millions, but the kidnappers replied that it was their bosses in Abuja that actually take the money and that they only get something small.

So I have doubts in my mind that even if jobs are provided for those ones, would that be as lucrative as kidnapping one person or two people and collecting N20 million. Thats the fear, its like they have tasted blood and it has become very, very dangerous, lamented Mr. Arise.

Mr. Arise expressed profound gratitude to his people for showing concern during his ordeal.

Between Oye and Ilupeju, they contributed N4 million within 24 hours. So that is one of the things that touched me to the marrow. My friends rallied round; the people of the town are showing appreciation for having a son that believes in them, he said.

After the church session, Mr. Arise shared his political ambition with journalists, saying he stood a better chance to win the governorship election on the platform of the APC ahead of other aspirants in the party.

He said although he had respect for former governors, Kayode Fayemi and Segun Oni, he possessed the popularity to wrest power from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in the state.

Although Mr. Fayemi, who is also the Minister of Mines and Steel Development is yet to make public his intentions to contest the July 14 election, Mr. Oni on his part, had declared that he would be taking another shot at the governorship seat.

According to Mr. Arise, the two former governors have contributed to the development of the state, but it was time for fresh blood to be allowed to rule the state.

Going by the mood in town, the people prefer a new person than those they have seen in the past, said Mr. Arise.

APC wants to win the coming election at all cost and they need a popular candidate and they know I am the best for the job so that our strategy can work.

ADVERTISEMENT

The APC knows how important the July 14 governorship election is to members. They need to apply the right strategy and they know who is fit to be able to defeat the PDP, and that is me.

Both Oni and Fayemi are my good friends. I contested as a senator when Oni vied for the governorship in 2007. The two of them have ruled Ekiti and now is my own turn.

Even if I step down for any of them, I can only guarantee them my own vote at the primary, because the delegates are adults who can take decisions on their own.

Mr. Arise also said he agreed with the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, that states should now operate their police to stem the tide of kidnappings and herdsmen menace.

He said it will be difficult for the current security agencies to tame the armed herdsmen and kidnappers because many of them dont understand the terrain where they are operating.

I agree with the establishment of a state police. They can identify the people and when you allow the community to take charge of their own security, they will be determined to fish out criminals, he said.

Nigeria is so big that you cant be controlling security from the centre, it must be decentralised.ADVERTISEMENT

Members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Oyo State on Monday staged a protest at the state secretariat of the party in Ibadan.

The protest, PREMIUM TIMES gathered, was put together by members over alleged imposition of candidates for the forthcoming council election in the state by the Oyo State governor, Abiola Ajimobi, and his loyalist.

Our correspondent gathered that the protesters were mobilised from all the council areas in the state.

There had been alleged plan by Mr. Ajimobi to impose party candidates in the coming council polls.

The party in the state is said to be divided into two major divisions, tagged the LAMists and the SENACO loyalists.

The LAMists, it is said, are the faction of the late former governor of the state, Lam Adesina, while the SENACO supporters are said to be loyalists of Mr. Ajimobi.

Details laterADVERTISEMENT

The Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has written a letter of reminder to the President, Muhammadu Buhari, on the renaming of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti, FUOYE after the late military governor of the defunct Western State, Robert Adeyinka Adebayo.

The federal government several months ago, at the funeral of the late general, announced the renaming of FUOYE as Adeyinka Adebayo University, Oye-Ekiti in a bid to immortalise him.

Mr. Adebayo who died last year was buried on May 20, 2017 at Iyin-Ekiti, his home-town.

The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, as Acting President then, represented President Buhari at the burial where he announced the decision of the federal government to rename the Federal University, Oye Ekiti as Adeyinka

Adebayo University in recognition of the exemplary leadership of the late frontline statesman.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Mr. Fayose, Idowu Adelusi, on Monday, said over seven months after the announcement was made, the change is yet to be effected by the federal government.

The statement said that Mr. Fayoses letter dated January 29, 2018, with reference number EK/GOV/28/93, urged the president to effect the change without further delay.

As Your Excellency is aware, the Late General Robert Adeyinka Adebayo (Military Governor of defunct Western State and one time Head of the Nigerian Army died last year), the letter read.

Your Excellency was represented at his burial on May 20, 2017 by the then Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo at Iyin-Ekiti, his home town.

The Acting President at the occasion announced the decision of the federal government to rename the Federal University, Oye Ekiti as Adeyinka Adebayo University in recognition of the exemplary leadership of the late hero and front-line statesman.

However, more than seven months after this pronouncement, nothing has been done.

Your Excellency, this letter therefore is to serve as reminder of this significant decision of your government so as to enable appropriate directive(s) and implementation.

On behalf of the people and government of Ekiti State, I thank Your Excellency for the thoughtfulness, please.WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- American Federation of Government Employees National President J. David Cox Sr. today issued the following statement:

"President Trump's budget is nothing less than a roadmap for dismantling the career civil service and handing over our most sacred public institutions to political donors and party loyalists.

"Federal workers shouldn't be hired or fired on the whims of political appointees whose allegiance is to their political party, not the country's best interests. By stripping employees of their due process rights and firing those who reject his politics, President Trump is opening the door for rampant corruption, discrimination, and worker intimidation.

"No group has lost more to deficit reduction than the federal workforce, with a three-year pay freeze, two government shutdowns, unpaid furloughs, and huge benefits cuts. Yet President Trump is proposing even more drastic cuts to workers' wages, retirement security, health insurance, workers' compensation benefits, and even their basic right to join a union and bargain over their work conditions.

"The financial hit alone to federal workers would climb to $246 billion over 10 years if President Trump succeeds in freezing their wages next year. Meanwhile, corporations and the wealthiest individuals are receiving massive windfalls thanks to unwarranted and unpaid tax cuts.

"The women and men who serve our country deserve our support and respect, not calls for slashing their pay and benefits and politicizing their jobs."

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union, representing 700,000 workers in the federal government and the government of the District of Columbia.

For the latest AFGE news and information, visit the AFGE Media Center. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

SOURCE American Federation of Government Employees

Related Links

http://www.afge.org

BOSTON, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Co-produced by RTE, American Public Television (APT) and ARTE, and releasing on public television stations nationwide March 1, 2018, "Jesus: Countdown to Calvary" is a new documentary, syndicated by APT, in which actor Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey, Paddington) examines the events leading up to the death of Jesus of Nazareth.

Hugh Bonneville in Jerusalem while filming Hugh Bonneville in a first century tomb while filming

Bonneville, a theology graduate of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, travels to Jerusalem to explore the historical context of the last six days of Jesus' life. With the help of noted academics and spiritual leaders, he investigates the complex factors that turned a popular preacher into a reviled victim of the Romans' most brutal form of execution  crucifixion.



Hugh and his guides utilize ancient artifacts, Gospel texts, historical analysis and modern insight to provide a fresh perspective on the social, religious and political tensions at play in first century Jerusalem. The legacies of leading figures like Pontius Pilate, Caiaphas and Judas Iscariot are brought into focus; long-held assumptions, some of which formed the root of centuries of anti-Semitism, are challenged head on.

Featuring state-of-the-art production values, the documentary is framed as a high-stakes political thriller, a clock counting down each critical moment from Palm Sunday to Good Friday.

University of Edinburgh Professor Helen Bond (MTheol PhD) is the principal academic consultant on the project. Other contributors include Prof. Paula Fredriksen (Hebrew University, Jerusalem), author of From Jesus to Christ (1988;2000); Dr. Zuleika Rodgers (Trinity College, Dublin); Prof. Ronny Reich (Hebrew University, Jerusalem); Amit Re'em (Israeli Institute of Archaeology); Fr. Gregory Tatum OP (Ecole Biblique, Jerusalem) and Amos Oz, the acclaimed Israeli author of Judas.

JESUS: COUNTDOWN TO CALVARY is a co-production of RTE (Ireland), American Public Television (APT) and ARTE and will be available for Syndication to public television stations beginning March 1, 2018, from American Public Television.

American Public Television is the leading syndicator of high-quality, top-rated programming to the nation's public television stations. For more than 10 years, APT has annually distributed one-third or more of the top 100 highest-rated public television titles in the U.S. Founded in 1961, among its 250 new program titles per year, APT programs include prominent documentaries, performance, news and current affairs programs, dramas, how-to programs, children's series and classic movies.

Press Contact:

Diane Buxton

(617)-835-5793

[email protected]

American Public Television:

Sarah Bichsel

(617) 338-4455, ext. 150

[email protected]

SOURCE American Public TelevisionSAN JOSE, Calif. and HYDERABAD, India, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Analytics Insight, a brand of Stravium Intelligence, has named 'The 10 Most Trusted Big Data Analytics Companies 2018' in its February magazine issue.

The magazine features Forecast5 Analytics, Inc. as the Cover Story. Forecast5 Analytics is significantly helping public sector organizations to improve existing processes, bring transparency, drive strategic planning and make a powerful impact on our society. It further includes BRIDGEi2i Analytics Solutions as Company of the Month. BRIDGEi2i Analytics helps organizations to enable business transformation with the power of artificial intelligence, big data and advanced analytics. Other eight companies with a strong global brand reputation for innovation, product quality, and customer focus include Alteryx Inc., ARRIA NLG, Edge Networks, Latentview Analytics, Paxata, SparkCognition Inc., Teralytics Inc. and Tiger Analytics.

Big data and analytics have become key competitive differentiators and top investment priority among organizations globally. Organizations using big data and analytics tools and platforms enjoy increased agility, better integration with partners, and boost overall performance and profitability.

The featured companies are on the cutting edge and are transforming the way businesses are carried out by offering state-of-the-art big data and analytics solutions. The insights offered by the companies empower organizations to keep pace with their peers in this highly competitive data-driven industry. "We extend our sincere congratulations to all the 10 companies for delivering excellent services and experiences to their customers," says Ashish Sukhadeve, Founder & Editor-in-Chief at Analytics Insight.

The publication is available online through the Weblink. It has been distributed globally through various channels. For more information, please visit https://www.analyticsinsight.net.

About Analytics Insight

Analytics Insight is a platform dedicated to insights, trends, and opinion from the world of data-driven technologies. It monitors developments, recognition, and achievements made by big data and analytics companies across the globe. The Analytics Insight magazine features opinions and views from top leaders and executives in the industry who share their journey, experiences, success stories, and knowledge to grow profitable businesses.

To set up an interview or advertise your brand, contact [email protected].

Contacts

Ashish Sukhadeve

Founder & Editor-in-Chief

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +91-40-23055215

http://www.analyticsinsight.net



Media:

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +1-408-380-2566



SOURCE Stravium IntelligenceGAITHERSBURG, Md., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Applied Biomimetic, a leader in the convergence of polymer and protein membrane technologies, announces the opening of its new headquarters and its research facilities in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

CEO Steen Sondergaard Nissen, commenting on the move: "After many years of research and incubation at the University of Cincinnati facilities, we achieved a level of scale in both research and manufacturing that required us to expand. After considering many alternative geographies we decided on the vibrant technology corridor in Maryland, and the City of Gaithersburg was chosen. The city's support for our transition and their fast-tracking of the normal permitting process and overall support enabled us to move here with relative ease and speed. We look forward to contributing to the local economy, being part of the ever-broadening technology local network, and aspire to serve as a model corporate citizen."

Nissen added: "We are grateful for the support provided by the University of Cincinnati over the past several years in hosting us, and providing the infrastructure and support to help us evolve our technology and people. Incubation centers such as these are vital in providing a shared services model of expensive laboratory equipment, and they help in establishing the visibility to attract technology talent."

The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC), along with Gaithersburg and state partners, helped assist the move from Cincinnati. "We welcome Applied Biomimetic to Montgomery County," said MCEDC President & CEO, David Petr. "The company's unique combination of biotechnology and engineering has great potential to improve the water purification industry and others. Their work leverages Montgomery County's strong biotech talents while expanding our industry reach. We see a great future in Montgomery County for this growing, innovative company."

"We are so pleased that Applied Biomimetic recognized Montgomery County's advantages for both research and development and manufacturing," noted Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett.

"Attracting and maintaining innovative biotechnology companies strengthens our community and adds to its vibrancy," said Jud Ashman, Mayor of the City of Gaithersburg. "We look forward to welcoming Applied Biomimetic to Gaithersburg and witnessing its future growth."

Recalling Applied Biomimetics' Danish roots, Jacob Vind, Danish Consul General & Head of the Danish Water Technology Alliance added: "At the Danish Trade Council we are working closely with Applied Biomimetic through our Water Technology Alliance in the US. We are happy to see our partners succeed, grow and expand their businesses, not only in Denmark but also here in the US. I'm proud that Danish companies are creating thousands of jobs all over the US and excited to see Applied Biomimetic contribute to those numbers."

All inquiries and communications should now be directed to the new address:

942 Clopper Road

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878

USA

Phone +1 240-292-1129

[email protected]

About Applied Biomimetic A/S:

Applied Biomimetic is a leader in the convergence of polymer and protein membrane technology. We have developed a high-performance membrane platform for water, life science, enzyme, food, and dairy separation applications. Applied Biomimetic holds global patents for the concept of embedding proteins in a proprietary polymeric membrane structure.

Our core technology is based on new chemistry and manufacturing methods to achieve highly permeable membrane material with narrow molecular size exclusion cut-off. By adding an active protein layer, the membranes will separate constituents at the ion level. We specialize in block copolymer synthesis and lamellar phases self-assembly. We are also recognized as a leader in the expression, purification, and production scale-up of porins from biological sources as well as synthesis of various types of polymeric amphiphiles.

We foresee a number of new innovative applications for our technology platform that may be established at a later stage, e.g. new delivery mechanisms for pharmaceuticals, new coatings for contact lenses, and more effective products for the cosmetics industry.

www.appliedbiomimetic.com

About MCEDC

The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) is the official public-private organization representing Montgomery County, Md. The organization was created in 2016 to help businesses start, grow, and relocate in Montgomery County, Maryland, by helping them gain access to top talent, business and market intelligence and prime locations. For more information, visit the website at thinkmoco.com.

SOURCE Applied Biomimetic

Related Links

http://www.appliedbiomimetic.com

VANCOUVER, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Bear Creek Mining Corporation ("Bear Creek" or the "Company") (TSX Venture: BCM) announces that Mr. Paul Tweddle has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Company, effective March 1, 2018. Mr. Tweddle will be engaged on a full-time basis at the Company's offices in Lima, Peru.

Mr. Tweddle brings extensive knowledge and experience from various sectors of the mining and metals industry. He meaningfully contributed to the growth of Rio Alto Mining as its VP of Finance and Commercial from the La Arena mine construction stage through 2015, where he also played a key role in the Shahuindo mine acquisition and financing. Prior to working in the mining sector, Paul was the Global Macro Strategist at Dunheath Capital, a macro hedge fund specializing in commodities with a metals focus. He has also worked as a physical base and precious metals trader, a risk manager at a copper semi manufacturer, and a trader of futures and options on both precious and base metals. Most recently he served as CFO for Oben Holding Group, a leading global flexible packaging manufacturer with operations in six countries, US $350M in annual sales, and 1800 employees. Mr. Tweddle holds an MBA from the Yale School of Management and a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Washington, with a major in Accounting and Finance.

Tony Hawkshaw, President and CEO of Bear Creek states, "On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am pleased to welcome Paul Tweddle to the Company. Paul is an accomplished and experienced financial expert and will be an integral member of our senior management team as Corani progresses. We sincerely thank Mr. Steven Krause for the dedication and professionalism he brought to the role of CFO since 2012, and we look forward to Steven's ongoing support as an advisor to management and the board."

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Anthony Hawkshaw

President and CEO

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statement regarding the effective date, location and nature of employment of the Company's incoming CFO. These forward-looking statements are based on the terms of an employment agreement signed between the Company and Mr. Tweddle, and are provided as of the date of this news release, or the effective date of the documents referred to in this news release, as applicable, and reflect predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events based on the Company's beliefs at the time the statements were made, as well as various assumptions made by and information currently available to them. Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions on which they are based do not reflect future experience. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the expectations expressed in them. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur, but specifically include, without limitation, risks relating to the date, location and basis of employment as contractually obligated by Mr. Tweddle's employment agreement; and the additional risks described in the Company's latest Annual Information Form, and other disclosure documents filed by the Company on SEDAR. The foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on our forward-looking statements, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by the Company or on behalf of the Company, except as required by law.

The TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE Bear Creek Mining Corporation

Related Links

http://www.bearcreekmining.com

VIENNA, BERLIN, and LOS ANGELES, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Today, Monday, "Instagram for animals" is being launched simultaneously in Germany, Austria and the U.S. Animal owners can connect and share knowledge from their community. It's going to be a roaring good time!

Images for the announcement at http://presse.leisuregroup.at/grinzoo/press_pictures

Video for the announcement at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60h33RyJhg4

The first social network that connects pets and their owners is taking shape with "grinzoo - my social pet app". Now, instead of posting cat photos on Facebook, animal lovers can connect with an interested community and, among other things, post pelfies - selfies with their pets. This marks the beginning of one of the first special interest social media networks dedicated to the specific interests of this target group. Users can post as many photos and videos of their sweethearts as they want on the story wall and have other users rate them. Users have various means of rating at their disposal, including a thumb, a heart, or a diamond. The animal of the month is presented in a ranking list at the end of each month. The app also delivers interesting information on individual species and gives users a chance to swap knowledge, from nutrition tips and dog grooming to medical knowledge. Once a week, the blog on http://www.grinzoo.com provides information on specific issues relating to pet care.

"There are over 30 million pets in Germany alone, and people spend more than nine billion euros on them every year. Our small housemates are already among the most popular subjects on Facebook and Instagram. grinzoo is the first app that connects pet owners and opens up new ways for them to interact. Animals are becoming stars and are finally getting the proper digital environment," explain the founders Markus and Mike Schweitzer.

From cats and dogs to horses and reptiles

Since not all breeds are created equally, grinzoo has filter options for the most popular pet breeds to make sure users find relevant content.

Pet owners can connect using the innovative app and meet up in person if they want. grinzoo displays animals in users' geographical locations and thus gives them the perfect chance to find out about the best veterinarians, for example, or make plans to walk their dogs together.

The first platform for "petfluencers"

People who are already on social media channels with their pets can become influential petfluencers with grinzoo and delight the community with their content and "pelfies" (selfies with their pets). The potential is enormous: The cute lapdog "Jiffpom" already has 7.3 million followers on social media, 3.5 million people follow the Instagram cat nala_cat, and the pug itsdougthepug and his funny outfits take pride in over 3 million followers. Interested community members, whose hearts beat only for their animal companions, are awaiting the right "it pet" on grinzoo.

The first petfluencers can look forward to great prizes at the beginning: grinzoo is raffling off several iPhone X, iPads, and premium gift certificates for the pet boutique that makes real petfluencers' eyes shine among the most active users in March 2018.

The grinzoo app is now available around the world in two languages and can be downloaded for free in Apple's iTunes Store and in the Google Play Store. You can find additional information at https://www.grinzoo.com.

+++ IMAGE MATERIAL +++

The image material is available and can be published for free in the scope of editorial reporting. Additional image and informational material can be found in the press area at http://www.leisure.at.

- Cross reference: Picture is available at AP Images (http://www.apimages.com) -

Questions and contact:

leisure communications

Alexander Khaelss-Khaelssberg

Tel.: +436648563001

[email protected]

https://twitter.com/akhaelss

https://www.leisure.at/presse

SOURCE grinzoo GmbHNewly-executed Global License Agreement will drive worldwide commercialization and adoption of MIOTY as new technology for Low-Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) communications and the core enabling technology of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)

TORONTO, Canada, ERLANGEN and MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Behr Technologies Inc. (BTI) and Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS (Fraunhofer IIS) are pleased to announce the formation of a new global partnership to develop and commercialize Fraunhofer IIS's innovative and patented MIOTY communication technology for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) market.

BTI is a new Canadian company based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, formed to become a global licensee for MIOTY - a new technology for Low-Power Wide Area Network communication enabling the IIoT. BTI has been formed and funded by a group of experienced Canadian technology entrepreneurs, and has worked with Fraunhofer IIS on field-testing with early adopters and commercialization of the MIOTY technology for over a year. BTI will help to drive the worldwide adoption, licensing, and support of MIOTY LPWAN technology, and has simultaneously opened its first European office in Nuremberg, Germany.

Fraunhofer IIS, based in Erlangen, Germany is an institute of the world-renowned Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft e.V., a leading non-profit organization for applied research in Europe. Fraunhofer's research activities are conducted by 72 Institutes and units throughout Germany with an annual budget of 2.3 billion and a staff of more than 25,000. Fraunhofer IIS is the largest Fraunhofer institute of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft e.V and one of the world's leading application-oriented research institutions for microelectronic and information technology system solutions and services. Fraunhofer has developed and globally licensed known technologies like mp3 and MPEG AAC coding technologies, digital radio technologies (DAB+, DRM) and other advanced satellite radio and communication technologies.

The MIOTY technology, developed by Fraunhofer IIS, is a powerful new IIoT software-based technology, which addresses the problems and deficiencies of all current wireless communications solutions. It is designed specifically to support the development and implementation of "production-level" private LPWANs on the lowest cost basis while maintaining maximum scalability. Based on Fraunhofer's patented Telegram Splitting Multiple Access technology, MIOTY provides exceptional wide-area connectivity and allows the economical deployment of networks based on a single or small number of off-the-shelf base-stations/gateways under tough plant/site operating conditions. MIOTY communication protocols offer one of the highest available immunities to channel and radio interference and maximize signal and building penetration through concrete, "rebar", and other obstructions ensuring unparalleled reliability in data transmission. Connectivity ranges up to 15 kilometers in open areas and 5 kilometers in dense urban environments and heavy building interference with no telecom carrier required.

MIOTY is also a highly-scalable IIoT solution supporting the deployment and simultaneous large-scale connectivity of up to hundreds of thousands of MIOTY-enabled sensors. The low-power communication protocol allows data sensors integrated with the communication technology to operate up to 15 years on a simple low-cost battery, and MIOTY incorporates industry-leading security protocols.

Implemented as a software-based communication solution, MIOTY is fully vendor and chipset independent. It can be installed easily on commodity off-the-shelf hardware and integrated into existing IIoT architectures and systems. Fraunhofer is also participating in the worldwide standardization of LPWAN technologies as an open and worldwide standard for LPWAN deployments.

The MIOTY LPWAN solution will also be tightly integrated with Microsoft Azure enabling the capture and interpretation of sensor-generated data on a massive scale in the most demanding environments. It will create more effective, efficient and unique approaches to production monitoring and management, predictive maintenance, energy management, facility management, ambient monitoring, and workforce safety, among many applications.

"MIOTY addresses a huge potential market projected at more than 30 billion IIoT devices in 2020 and 75 billion devices by 2025 (HIS Research). According to Grand View Research, the global IIoT market exceeded US$100 billion in 2016 and is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of over 25% from 2017 to 2025. Additionally, General Electric predicts investment in IIoT will top US$60 trillion during the next 15 years", explains Albert Behr, CEO of BTI.

"The signed Global Fraunhofer/BTI License Agreement represents the first stage in bringing revolutionary IIoT communications technology to the global marketplace", states Behr. "The combination of world-class German engineering with BTI's broad commercialization abilities will usher in a new era of production-scale Industrial/Commercial IOT deployments for many of the world's leading companies. MIOTY is truly transformational. Fraunhofer and BTI will face the upcoming challenges of IIoT applications and markets by further outstanding additions to MIOTY technology."

Michael Schlicht, Head of the Division Communication Systems at Fraunhofer IIS, adds: "The MIOTY technology has been developed over several years as a vendor-independent software solution for LPWAN communication and we believe in its high potential to become the commercial standard for wireless IIoT connectivity. Fraunhofer IIS experience developing audio codecs e.g. mp3, digital radio for terrestrial and satellite-based technologies, and numerous satellite communications contributions demonstrates our technological know-how and our performance that we are able to set revolutionary trends and open up new markets. Together with partners we make these technologies available for global adoption.

We are excited to form a partnership with Behr Technologies to take the MIOTY technology to market. We look forward to supporting and developing this new German-Canadian technology commercialization alliance as an effective way of bringing powerful products and technologies to world markets."

About Behr Technologies Inc.:

Behr Technologies Inc. (BTI) is a new Canadian company formed to become the world-wide licensee of Fraunhofer MIOTY IIoT communications technology. BTI is focused on commercializing, licensing and supporting MIOTY globally and on facilitating the development of new MIOTY based products and applications in the worldwide IIoT marketplace. BTI is committed to supporting its selected MIOTY technology licensees and resellers and the integration of MIOTY into the widest range of products and networks in the industry.

About Fraunhofer IIS:

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is one of the leading organizations for applied research in Europe. Its research activities are conducted by 72 institutes and research units at locations throughout Germany. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft employs a staff of more than 25,000. The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS is one of the world's leading application-oriented research institutions for microelectronic and IT system solutions and services. It is the largest of all Fraunhofer Institutes.

In the area of "Audio and Media Technologies", the institute has been shaping the digitalization of media for more than 30 years now. Fraunhofer IIS was instrumental in the development of mp3 and AAC and played a significant role in the digitalization of the cinema. In the context of "cognitive sensor technologies", the institute researches technologies for sensor technology, data transmission technology, data analysis methods and the exploitation of data as part of data-driven services and their accompanying business models.

For More Information:

Please visit: www.behrtechnologies.com

www.iis.fraunhofer.de/en.html (English version)

SOURCE Behr Technologies Inc.SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Access, a leading provider of international commerce technologies and transportation solutions, is partnering with BikeBandit.com to help the San Diego-based retailer to expand internationally.

BikeBandit.com, a company founded in 1999, is a retailer of OEM parts, aftermarket parts, accessories, gear, and apparel. They are ranked within the Top 500 Ecommerce Retailers due to their competitive prices, superior service, and cutting-edge technology. These requisite pillars have allowed them to partner with industry known brands such as Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha and many more.

BikeBandit.com will expand its operation internationally with a seamless fully branded experience provided by Global Access' integrated technology platform, extensive logistics network, and cross-border expertise.

"Powersports vehicles are popular around the world, and we're excited to expand internationally to serve customers outside of the U.S.," said BikeBandit's COO, Steve Isenhower. "Cross-border retail presents unique challenges, but we're confident that this partnership will allow us to meet all of those challenges and provide seamless service to our customers outside of the U.S."

"International markets provide retailers like BikeBandit.com with enormous opportunities, but those customers expect the same seamless shopping experience from checkout to delivery as domestic customers," said Global Access CEO David Nielsen. "Our advancements in duty and tax automation, real-time order tracking and customs brokerage technology combined with our expansive international logistics network make it possible for BikeBandit.com to expand around the world and build a valued global brand without compromising customer care."

Specifically, Global Access will provide BikeBandit.com with:

Duty and Tax Calculation with guaranteed landed cost

with guaranteed landed cost Secure global payments against fraud

against fraud Local Currency payment acceptance and exchange rate determination

payment acceptance and exchange rate determination Seamless real-time integration with BikeBandit's Website

with BikeBandit's Website Access to Global Access' international logistics system, including brokerage services and customs clearance

Reduced delivery times with lower shipping cost

Real-time package tracking visibility for the Customer and BikeBandit

visibility for the Customer and BikeBandit Insurance options for packages through Shipsurance

About Global Access

Founded in 2002, Global Access has shipped more than $1 billion in gross merchandise value to more than 184 countries.

Global Access a leading provider of international technology and logistics solutions that allow direct sellers and retailers to tap into the fastest growing markets and build global brands. The Company's decades of international commerce expertise protects clients and their brands by successfully navigating the regulatory requirements of each country and by providing their international customers with the same seamless, branded experience enjoyed by domestic customers. The Global Access technology platform ensures accuracy in duty and tax assessment and speedy customs clearance and maintains transparency and control throughout the order process with real-time data access delivering a superior customer experience that builds loyalty to our clients' brands.

About BikeBandit.com

Over the last 18 years, BikeBandit.com helped pioneer the landscape for online retailing of powersports parts and accessories. BikeBandit.com has become known as one of the most trusted names in powersports, which in June of 2017, led to a partnership with Vey's Powersports. Vey's, founded in 1962 and a veteran in the industry, has an established network of powersports dealerships located in Southern California.

The merging of these two entities combines both the convenience and speed of online shopping with the knowledge, expertise, and personal touch of your local dealership. Because of the synergistic partnership between these two brands, global expansion is no longer a goal but a reality.

Contact: Kate Morton

512-291-6491

SOURCE Global Access

Related Links

http://www.globalaccess.com

ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Bloomberg Law today announced that it has added more than 60 books to its platform through an alliance with Wiley. The titles add significant new content to Bloomberg Law across a variety of legal practice areas that are experiencing significant growth and transformation, including corporate, IP, privacy, and cybersecurity. With the licensing of these titles, more than 80 books from Wiley are available on the Bloomberg Law platform.

"This alliance with Wiley will provide our customers content from one of the most respected publishers of legal titles," said Scott Mozarsky, President, Bloomberg Law. "These books provide our customers with broader and deeper access to authoritative content across a number of key practice areas and by helping them create valuable connections between the business, legal, and financial markets. We are continuing to add secondary content such as books and treatises to Bloomberg Law while at the same time maintaining our commitment to continually invest in data, analytics, practical guidance and other areas of Bloomberg Law."

"Publishing our titles on the Bloomberg Law platform provides us valuable exposure within the legal community, said Ella Balagula, EVP of Knowledge & Learning, Wiley. "Legal professionals using Bloomberg Law can look to Wiley's trusted and timely books and treatises for their research needs and to intelligently counsel their clients."

As with all enhancements to content and functionality on Bloomberg Law, these titles are available at no additional cost to subscribers. Among the noteworthy titles added to Bloomberg Law include "Mergers, Acquisitions, and Corporate Restructurings" by Patrick A. Gaughan, "The Technical Interview Guide to Investment Banking" by Paul Pignataro, and "Startup Boards" by Brad Feld.

About Bloomberg Law

Bloomberg Law helps legal professionals provide world-class counsel with access to actionable legal intelligence in a business context. Combining Bloomberg's renowned news, company, market, and financial data with in-depth analysis, data visualization and analytics, business intelligence tools, and practical guidance as well as comprehensive primary and secondary research materials, Bloomberg Law delivers an advantage to law firms, corporations and organizations handling the most complex legal matters. For more information, visit www.bna.com/bloomberglaw .

About Wiley

Wiley, a global research and learning company, helps people and organizations develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Our online scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly journals, combined with our digital learning, assessment and certification solutions help universities, learned societies, businesses, governments and individuals increase the academic and professional impact of their work. For more than 210 years, we have delivered consistent performance to our stakeholders. The company's website can be accessed at www.wiley.com.

SOURCE Bloomberg LawNASHVILLE, Tenn., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Business-Management-Degree.net has recently released their list of the Best Online Schools for Masters in Public Relations, a comprehensive index of the finest distance education programs of this level and discipline.

You may view the list, along with a description of the benefits of each institution, by clicking the link below:

https://www.business-management-degree.net/masters-public-relations/

A Masters in Public Relations opens students up to a huge range of options within the business industry, specifically marketing and advertising. Individuals sharpen a great many skills and techniques in designing and implementing successful campaigns using modern platforms. Many programs today emphasize social media and related technologies to reach as broad or narrow a customer-base as is intended. Public Relations professionals can manipulate the marketing system to meet the needs of whatever or whomever they are representing, and are a crucial asset in businesses, organizations, corporations, and agencies across the globe.

These twenty outstanding online schools offer students in-depth coursework that utilize high-tech learning platforms. Students will have access to some of the most brilliant minds in the industry, as faculty and staff are typically practicing or retired professionals who bring worlds of information to the virtual classroom. All of these fine institutions offer the best student, academic, and career resources available, and students of all twenty can rely on supportive and nurturing academic environments.

According to lead researcher and writer, Rowan Jones, "A Master in Public Relations will give business-minded students the skills and knowledge needed to enhance advertising campaigns for all sorts of businesses. The twenty schools on this list provide all of the resources, learning, and experience you need to succeed."

Below we have listed the schools that have made the Best Online Schools for Masters in Public Relations:

 Marist College  Poughkeepsie, NY

 Southern New Hampshire University  Hooksett, NH

 George Washington University  Washington, D.C.

 Liberty University  Lynchburg, VA

 Full Sail University  Winter Park, FL

 University of Southern California  Los Angeles, CA

 Ball State University  Muncie, IN

 Washing State University-Global Campus  Pullman, WA

 Georgetown University  Washington, D.C.

 Northeastern University  Boston, MA

 Webster University  Webster Groves, MO

 New York University  New York, NY

 Johns Hopkins University  Baltimore, MD

 University of Denver  Denver, CO

 West Virginia University  Morgantown, WV

 Concordia University, St. Paul  St. Paul, MN

 Mississippi College  Clinton, MS

 Quinnipiac University  Hamden, CT

 University of Missouri  Columbia, MO

 South Dakota State University  Brookings, SD

These Best Online Schools for Masters in Public Relations were chosen for several factors that put them ahead of other online graduate programs, due to the: nature of the coursework, degree of thoroughness and complexity of the curriculum, 100% online availability, sufficient financial aid availability, and an education that give students more than just classroom experience.

Contact:

Rowan Jones

Researcher/Writer

Business-Management-Degree.net

Email: [email protected]

Cell: (931) 636-4286

SOURCE Business-Management-Degree.net

Related Links

https://www.business-management-degree.net

Nearly 370 municipal and county government officials serving communities with populations of less than 1,000 to more than 500,000, participated in the December 2017 online survey, which assessed the current state of digital communications in local government and projected future trends. You can download a copy of the survey here .

Topping the list of priorities for 2018 is citizen engagement, with two-thirds (66%) of survey respondents planning to invest in technology to expand their efforts in this area. Moreover, half of the local government agencies surveyed plan to invest in social media tools to do so.

"At a time when social media consumption is at an all-time high, it's not surprising that local government leaders are realizing the impact digital engagement can have in creating positive relationships with citizens and improving the customer experience," said David Nachman, CEO of Vision. "Over the four years of our 'What's Next' surveys, we've seen social media rise from third to first place among rankings of the most effective communications channels for local government."

Web accessibility came in second among the top priorities for 2018, cited by 53 percent of survey participants. Ten percent of the public officials surveyed said their agency websites do not meet current standards for digital accessibility, while 66 percent said their website was only "somewhat in compliance."

Cybersecurity also was top of mind for this year's survey respondents, coming in third among the most frequently mentioned priorities at 41 percent. When asked to rank external forces that will have the most significant impact on local agency communications this year, cybersecurity threats topped the list of concerns for the leaders questioned.

Biggest Challenges for 2018

Community engagement is both a priority and a challenge for local government leaders this year. Nearly half (49%) cited "limited community engagement" as the biggest challenge for their websites in 2018, followed by "difficult to navigate" (41%) and "website does not meet accessibility standards" (29%).

"It's clear that local agencies are well aware of the rising expectations of their increasingly digital and mobile citizens who now demand the same level of accessibility, security and efficiency they enjoy in the private sector," Nachman said. "Netflix, Amazon and Uber have set a high bar for digital interaction that government budgets often find hard to reach."

Most Effective Channels of Local Gov Communications

Local agencies recognize the key role their websites play in meeting the digital demands of diverse populations, with nearly 91 percent of respondents rating their website as "very important" or "extremely important" to their overall communications and engagement strategies  a response that has remained above 90 percent in each of the past four years.

When asked how easy it is for community members to find information on their websites, however, less than 9 percent of survey respondents said it was "extremely easy." The remainder of respondents said their websites had room for improvement in the area of "findability" of web content.

"The good news is more than half of the local government leaders we surveyed plan to invest time and money in updating and improving their websites in 2018," Nachman said. "We've also seen responsive design fall lower on the list of current website issues, which indicates that many more local government websites are now mobile-ready."

Websites ranked second, behind social media, as the most highly effective channel of communications available to government agencies. Email and text messaging followed in third and fourth place. Blogs ranked last as an effective tool for local government, with nearly 60 percent rating blogs as "not effective."

What's Next?

Looking ahead five years, nearly three-quarters (73 percent) of survey respondents see the importance of social media increasing, while those that believe websites will be most effective nearly doubled to 66 percent from 36 percent.

"Overall, this year's survey underscores local government leaders' commitment to better serve their communities by delivering superior digital experiences," Nachman added. "They will do this by leveraging social media, video, mobile messaging and other tools to communicate with citizens in a way that is more engaging, interactive and personalized than ever before."

For more information about Vision's transformative technology, or to request a free website review and consultation, please call 888-263-8847 or visit info.visioninternet.com/free-consultation.

About Vision

Headquartered in El Segundo, Calif., Vision is a national leader in government website design, development and hosting with more than 800 government, non-profit and education clients in U.S. and Canadian communities with populations that range from less than 1,000 residents to more than 5 million. For more than 20 years, Vision has created cost-effective solutions that increase government efficiency, build transparency and promote interactive communications with citizens.

CONTACT:

Lynette Viviani

973-534-1004

[email protected]

SOURCE VisionPharmacokinetic Study to test the Absorption, Uptake, Duration and Dosing of Phivida's Nano-CBD

VANCOUVER, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Phivida Holdings Inc. ("Phivida" or the "Company") (CSE: VIDA) OTCMKTS: PHVAF) is pleased to report that Phivida Organics Inc., a wholly owned US operating subsidiary, has entered into an agreement with Artelo Biosciences to carry out a Pharmacokinetic (PK) study on its hemp derived nanoencapsulated cannabidiol (CBD) at the University of Nottingham, School of Medicine at the Royal Derby Hospital, England.

The study will test encapsulated-CBD and measure how fast and how much CBD enters the blood stream after oral consumption with each of the different formulations. The study is a healthy volunteer pharmacokinetic study based on a four-arm cross over design in healthy volunteers measuring the plasma levels of encapsulated CBD after a single dose (100 mg) of CBD in four formulations. The investigators will also analyse a variety of cardiovascular measurements in response to dose.

Study results will be documented in a whitepaper written by researchers at the University of Nottingham and expects to be submitted to a peer reviewed journal for publication. This whitepaper will be incorporated in communications materials for the Phivida Clinical Advisory and Education Team to present to health care practitioners at major medical conferences around the world.

Dr. Saoirse O'Sullivan, supervising researcher at the University of Nottingham, said, "As a recognized and leading institution in the field of cannabinoid research, we are pleased to be selected to conduct the pharmacokinetics study on behalf of the collaboration between Phivida and Artelo. We look forward to gaining a greater understanding of the effects of nanoencapsulation on CBD bioavailability."

Phivida CBD-hemp oil is derived from certified organic medicinal hemp extract and contains high concentrations of naturally occurring phytocannabinoids while maintaining a less than 0.3% THC component. Using proprietary nanoencapsulation technology, phytocannabinoids are converted into a water-soluble delivery format, enhancing bioavailability, and timed released within the body. When orally administered, Phivida's Nano-CBD has shown strong indications of being up to 400% more bioavailable versus traditional CBD-hemp oil extracts.

"The outcome of this study and the resulting whitepaper has the potential to clearly define the advantages of Nano-CBD versus standard CBD oils and isolates. said Mr. John Belfontaine, Phivida President and Chairman. We are excited about the potential to provide measurable results on the bioavailability of Phivida's nanoencapsulated CBD hemp oil products for the health care practitioner market. "Phivida is dedicated to research and to the advancement of cannabinoid science to continue setting benchmark quality and safety standards worldwide."

Phivida Holdings Inc.

Phivida ("fii-VEE-daa") is a premier brand of cannabidiol ("CBD") products traded on the Canadian Securities Exchange as "VIDA". Phivida's Nano-CBD is infused into functional beverages, foods and supplements containing a proprietary blend of phytonutraceuticals studied to target a range of health conditions, from chronic pain to terminal diseases. The World Anti-Doping Association's recent decision to lift its ban of CBD from hemp oil and the World Health Organization's recent statement supports the clinical benefits of CBD for athletes worldwide.

Celebrating Health and Wellness in harmony, Phivida is dedicated to advancing education and research and giving back to the communities in which we operate. For more information visit www.phivida.com or join our social media network @Phivida. For investor inquiries please contact us via the information listed below.

Quick Facts:

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release contains forward-looking information based on current expectations. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by such statements. Although such statements are based on management's reasonable assumptions, the Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances unless required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks including various risk factors discussed in the Company's disclosure documents, which can be found under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com. This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbour provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The CSE has neither reviewed nor approved the contents of this press release.

SOURCE Phivida Holdings Inc.

Related Links

www.phivida.com

Company invites individual and institutional investors as well as advisors to log-on to VirtualInvestorConferences.com to view presentation

FRESNO Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Communities First Financial Corp. (OTCQX: CFST) based in California, focused on business banking, today announced that the February 8 presentation from President and CEO, Steve Miller, is now available for on-demand viewing at VirtualInvestorConferences.com.

LINK: https://tinyurl.com/0218postpr



Communities First Financial Corp's presentation will be available 24/7 for 90 days. Investors and advisors may download shareholder materials from the "virtual trade booth" for the next three weeks.

Recent Company Highlights

Communities First Financial Corporation Announces Record Profit; Earnings Increase 20% in 2017; Pre-Tax Reform Earnings Up 30%

Fourth quarter net income was $877,000 , or $0.30 per diluted share, which includes a $325,000 , or $0.11 per share, one-time tax expense related to recently enacted tax reforms. In the fourth quarter of 2016, net income was $932,000 , or $0.34 diluted share.

, or per diluted share, which includes a , or per share, one-time tax expense related to recently enacted tax reforms. In the fourth quarter of 2016, net income was , or diluted share. For the full year 2017, net income increased 20% to $3.7 million , or $1.28 per share, compared to $3.1 million , or $1.12 per share for 2016.

, or per share, compared to , or per share for 2016. Noninterest-bearing demand deposits increased 17% to $199.0 million at December 31, 2017 , representing 54% of total deposits, compared to $169.5 million , or 51% of total deposits a year ago

About Communities First Financial Corp.

Communities First Financial Corporation is parent holding company of Fresno First Bank, a community bank incorporated on July 14, 2005, and dedicated to meeting the banking needs of businesses, professionals and successful individuals in Central California. Communities First Financials stock trades on the OTCQX under the ticker symbol CFST.

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SOURCE Communities First Financial Corp.TORONTO and TAMPA, FL, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Cott Corporation (NYSE:COT; TSX:BCB) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Cott will acquire Crystal Rock Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:CRVP) for $0.97 per share in cash. The transaction, which values Crystal Rock at approximately $35 million, was unanimously approved by both the Cott and Crystal Rock Boards of Directors. Crystal Rock is a 100 year old direct-to-consumer home and office water, coffee, filtration and office supply service delivery business serving customers throughout New York and New England.

Jerry Fowden, Cott's Chief Executive Officer, commented, "The Crystal Rock acquisition is another positive step in our stated strategy to pursue acquisitions in the higher margin home and office water delivery and coffee services categories, where we believe our platform, operating strength and synergies can be leveraged."

Tom Harrington, Chief Executive Officer of DS Services, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cott, commented, "We are very excited about strengthening our business in the New York and New England high density markets and firmly believe that our proven track record of integrating companies onto our platform will result in improved performance within our operations in the Northeastern United States."

Under the terms of the merger agreement, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cott will promptly commence a tender offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Crystal Rock's common stock at a price of $0.97 per share in cash. The consummation of the tender offer is subject to various conditions, including a minimum tender of a majority of outstanding shares of Crystal Rock common stock on a fully diluted basis and other customary conditions. Following consummation of the tender offer, such subsidiary will merge with and into Crystal Rock, such that, following the merger, Crystal Rock will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cott. Any eligible shares not validly tendered will be cancelled and converted into the right to receive the same price per share offered in the tender offer. As a result of the acquisition, Crystal Rock shares will cease to be traded on the New York Stock Exchange.

In connection with the execution of the merger agreement, shareholders holding 50.8% of the outstanding shares of Crystal Rock common stock have entered into a support agreement with Cott pursuant to which they have agreed to tender their shares in the tender offer.

The transaction is expected to close in March 2018, subject to the conditions to the tender offer and other customary closing conditions. Additional financial and integration information relating to the acquisition of Crystal Rock will be provided post-closing.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS

The tender offer for the outstanding shares of Crystal Rock common stock referenced in this press release has not yet commenced. This press release is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell shares of Crystal Rock common stock, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that Cott and its acquisition subsidiary will file with the SEC upon commencement of the tender offer. At the time the offer is commenced, Cott and its acquisition subsidiary will file tender offer materials on Schedule TO, and Crystal Rock will thereafter file a Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the tender offer. The tender offer materials (including an Offer to Purchase, a related Letter of Transmittal and certain other offer documents) and the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement will contain important information. Holders of shares of Crystal Rock common stock are urged to read these documents when they become available because they will contain important information that holders of Crystal Rock common stock should consider before making any decision regarding tendering their shares. The Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and certain other offer documents, as well as the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement, will be made available to all holders of shares of Crystal Rock common stock at no expense to them. The tender offer materials and the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement will be made available for free at the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov. Copies of these documents will also be made available free of charge on Cott's website at http://www.cott.com/investor-relations. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Crystal Rock will be available free of charge on Crystal Rock's website at http://ir.crystalrock.com. In addition to the Offer to Purchase, the related Letter of Transmittal and certain other offer documents, as well as the Solicitation/Recommendation Statement, Cott and Crystal Rock file annual, quarterly and special reports and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any reports or other information filed by Cott or Crystal Rock at the SEC public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room. Cott and Crystal Rock's filings with the SEC are also available to the public at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

ABOUT COTT CORPORATION

Cott is a route based service company with a leading volume-based national presence in the North America and European home and office bottled water delivery industry and a leader in custom coffee roasting, blending of iced tea, and extract solutions for the U.S. foodservice industry. Our platform reaches over 2.3 million customers or delivery points across North America and Europe supported by strategically located sales and distribution facilities and fleets, as well as wholesalers and distributors. This enables us to efficiently service residences, businesses, restaurant chains, hotels and motels, small and large retailers, and healthcare facilities.

ABOUT CRYSTAL ROCK HOLDINGS, INC.

Crystal Rock Holdings, Inc. (NYSE MKT: CRVP), operating through its subsidiary Crystal Rock LLC, markets and distributes water and coffee service, office supplies, refreshment beverages and other break room items to the commercial office and at home markets throughout the Northeast. For over 100 years, the company has provided quality and high value service, and it's the largest independent delivery provider of its kind in the United States. It bottles and distributes natural spring water under the Vermont Pure brand, purified water with minerals added under the Crystal Rock Waters label and it roasts and packages coffee under its Cool Beans brand. Launched in 2010, the Crystal Rock Office brand features traditional office supplies, break room items, furniture and janitorial and sanitation products. The majority of its sales are derived from a route distribution system that delivers water in 3- to 5-gallon reusable, recyclable bottles, and coffee in fractional packs or pods. Crystal Rock believes "Little Things Matter" to the customer experience with high standards for delivering premium service excellence and results in customer productivity - at work or at home. Through technical innovation, a branded customer experience and a commitment to community and environment, Crystal Rock family values are integral to the relationships between employees and customers. More information is available at CrystalRock.com.

Safe Harbor Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 conveying management's expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time Cott makes the statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and Cott cautions you that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any such forward-looking statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements related to the completion of the transaction on the terms proposed, the anticipated timing of the transaction, expected synergies and contribution to Cott's performance, and the potential impact the acquisition will have on Cott and related matters. The forward-looking statements are based on assumptions regarding the time necessary to satisfy the conditions to the closing of the transaction and management's current plans and estimates. Management believes these assumptions to be reasonable but there is no assurance that they will prove to be accurate.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in this press release include, among others: changes in expectations as to the closing of the transaction; changes in estimates of future earnings and cash flows; expected synergies and cost savings are not achieved or achieved at a slower pace than expected; integration problems, delays or other related costs; retention of customers and suppliers; and unanticipated changes in laws, regulations, or other industry standards affecting the companies.

The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures, including but not limited to risk factors contained in Cott's Annual Report on Form 10-K and its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, as well as other filings with the securities commissions. Cott does not undertake to update or revise any of these statements in light of new information or future events, except as expressly required by applicable law.

Website: www.cott.com

SOURCE Cott Corporation

Related Links

http://www.cott.com

BEIJING, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- CreditEase, a Beijing-based leading FinTech conglomerate in China, announced today that its venture fund, CreditEase FinTech Investment Fund ("CEFIF"), recently joined a group of prestigious investors to support California based Fair's strategic expansion. Other investors in this round of financing include Siemens-backed next47 global venture fund, BMW i Ventures, Millennium Technology Value Partners, 137 Ventures, G Squared and Upfront Ventures.

Fair has also recently announced the acquisition of leasing portfolio of Uber's Xchange Leasing subsidiary. Concurrent with the Uber leasing deal, Fair also entered into an exclusive, long-term partnership with Uber in the United States that enables its ride-share drivers to lease a Fair vehicle and return it anytime.

Launched in August 2017, Fair is a mobile technology platform that allows customers to lease and return a car with flexible terms entirely by using a smartphone. "These investments are an important part of Fair's continuing and rapid growth, and are further confirmation that the future of car ownership lies in the digital, flexible and affordable model that Fair provides," said Scott Painter, Fair CEO and Founder. "We're gratified that Fair's reception from the investment community matches the enthusiastic response of our customers, who want to get a car the same way they make countless other digital purchases - from wherever they are and with no long-term commitment."

Since its inception in early 2016, CEFIF continues its strategy of investing in FinTech companies at the crossroads of cutting-edge technology, research and innovative business models. With the rapid development of the mobile internet technology and desire for flexibility, consumers are increasingly embracing the subscription-based business models across sectors. Fair captures this opportunity to usher in a new era of flexible auto financing, in partnership with automakers and dealers.

"Fair's business model demonstrates a game-changing alternative for the massive used car market in the United States through flexible auto leasing. It provides a user-friendly, brand new automotive financing experience through a fully digital, transparent, mobile, and reliable technology platform," said Ms. Anju Patwardhan, Managing Director of CreditEase FinTech Investment Fund. "Mr. Scott Painter and Mr. Georg Bauer are visionary automotive industry leaders, each with over 20 years of experience and have proven track record across automobiles and finance. They have built a deep management team with unparalleled industry knowledge at Fair."

CEFIF is a firm believer in using technology to disrupt and change traditional industries and is also an early investor in DiYiCheDai and DaSuoChe in China that are changing vehicle ownership and financing models. "We will continue to deploy CreditEase's rich technology, risk management, and finance expertise to support the industry growth," said Ms.Patwardhan.

About CreditEase Fintech Investment Fund:

Founded in February 2016, CreditEase FinTech Investment Fund is a venture fund investing in growth-stage FinTech companies in China and the global markets. CreditEase FinTech Investment Fund has an equivalent of $1 billion in total committed capital. The fund has formed strategic partnerships with global leading venture capital investors to discover opportunities in five sub-segments within the domain of FinTech: Lending, Payment, Personal Finance/Wealth management, Enterprise Solutions, and Insurance.

About CreditEase:

CreditEase is a Beijing-based leading FinTech conglomerate in China, specializing in inclusive finance and wealth management, in addition to payment technology, marketplace lending, crowdfunding, robo-advisory, insurance technology and blockchain products and services. CreditEase actively engages with global FinTech innovators through business incubation, commercial co-operation, and investment. Better tech, better finance, better world.

About Fair

Fair offers a forward-thinking model of flexible car ownership that responds to consumer demand for more freedom. Fair gives customers the flexibility to drive the car they want for as long as they want and lets them return the car anytime. Eliminating the long-term commitment of traditional financing or leasing, Fair allows you to select your car, miles, and view your payments - all in a mobile and paperless end-to-end experience that's simple, transparent and affordable. Fair is headquartered in Santa Monica, California. For more information, please visit www.fair.com.

SOURCE CreditEaseSAN DIEGO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson Fistel, LLP has launched an investigation into whether the board members of CSRA Inc. (NYSE: CSRA) breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the proposed sale of the Company to General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).

On February 12, 2018, CSRA announced that it had signed a definitive merger agreement with General Dynamics. Under the terms of the agreement, General Dynamics will acquire each share of outstanding common stock of CSRA in exchange for $ 40.75 per share in cash.

The investigation concerns whether the CSRA board failed to satisfy its duties to the Company shareholders, including whether the board adequately pursued alternatives to the acquisition and whether the board obtained the best price possible for CSRA shares of common stock. Nationally recognized Johnson Fistel is investigating whether the proposed deal represents adequate consideration, especially given one Wall Street analyst has a $42.00 price target on the stock.

If you are a shareholder of CSRA and believe the proposed buyout price is too low or you're interested in learning more about the investigation or your legal rights and remedies, please contact lead analyst Jim Baker ( [email protected] ) at 619-814-4471. If emailing, please include a phone number.

About Johnson Fistel, LLP:

Johnson Fistel, LLP is a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York and Georgia. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://www.johnsonfistel.com . Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Contact:

Johnson Fistel, LLP

Jim Baker, 619-814-4471

[email protected]

SOURCE Johnson Fistel, LLP

Related Links

http://www.johnsonfistel.com

The new agreement allows NCTC member operators, who serve nearly 9 million basic cable subscribers, to deliver to their customers unlimited access to more than 1,500 documentaries, all without commercial interruptions, through the operator's Video on Demand (VOD) service, and through a streaming app on various consumer electronic device platforms, with plans of including the streaming app on certain operator set-top box platforms later this year.

"CuriosityStream is proud to partner with NCTC to give its members and their enormous customer base easy access to the world's greatest collection of non-fiction programming that empowers viewers to satisfy their curiosity about their favorite subjects," said Clint Stinchcomb, Chief Distribution Officer for CuriosityStream.

CuriosityStream's immersive experiences feature world-renowned experts, stunning visuals and unrivaled storytelling. CuriosityStream fills a void in a crowded media landscape for viewers searching for a trusted source of engaging shows, whether you want to explore Mars, travel back in time to when dinosaurs ruled the Earth, or discover the secrets behind the science of nutrition.

John Childress, VP, Product Strategy and Management for NCTC, noted, "There is a lot of high-quality content out there that consumers may not know about, and this partnership enables our member operators the ability to surface some of that content in convenient ways, enhancing their customers' overall experience."

CuriosityStream offers a 7-day free trial, with both monthly and annual subscription plans that members can offer to their consumers.

About CuriosityStream

Launched by Discovery Communications founder and media visionary John Hendricks, CuriosityStream is the award-winning streaming and on-demand destination where viewers can journey through our world and beyond. Our immersive experiences feature experts from Stephen Hawking and David Attenborough to Veritasium's Derek Muller, stunning visuals, and unrivaled storytelling to demystify science, history, technology, nature, health and more. With over 1,500 features and series, including exclusive originals, CuriosityStream is available in over 190 countries to watch on TV, desktop, mobile and tablets. Find us on the web and via Roku, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast, iOS and Android, as well as Amazon Channels, Sling TV, VRV, Comcast Xfinity on Demand, Layer3 TV and the Sony, LG, VIZIO and Samsung smart TV platforms.

About National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC)

NCTC is a Kansas not-for-profit corporation that operates as a programming and hardware purchasing organization for its member companies who own and operate cable systems throughout the U.S. and its territories. NCTC seeks to maximize current and future opportunities to ensure the profitability, competitive stature and long-term sustainability of its member companies. For more information, visit www.nctconline.org

MEDIA CONTACT:

Vanessa Gillon

CuriosityStream

301-755-2069

[email protected]

Sarah Connole

NCTC

913-310-1559

[email protected]

SOURCE CuriosityStream

Related Links

https://app.curiositystream.com

DUBLIN, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

The "Dairy Enzymes Market by Type (Lactase, Chymosin, Microbial Rennet, Lipase), Application (Milk, Cheese, Ice Cream & Desserts, Yogurt, Whey, Infant Formula), Source (Plant, Animal & Microorganism), and Region - Global Forecast to 2022" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The dairy enzymes market is estimated at USD 519.4 Million in 2017, and is projected to reach USD 734.6 Million by 2022, at a CAGR of 7.18% during the forecast period.



The global demand for dairy enzymes is increasing significantly due to the increasing consumption of dairy products such as cheese and yogurt, growing demand for low-lactose and lactose-free dairy products, and environmental benefits associated with enzymes.



Based on type, the microbial rennet segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2017 to 2022. Microbial rennet is considered vegetarian-friendly as the enzyme produced by the microorganism is not derived from animals. Moreover, microbial rennet is less expensive than animal rennet. These are the major factors driving the growth of the microbial rennet segment, worldwide.



The cheese segment is estimated to account for the largest share of the global dairy enzymes market in 2017. Various microbes such as Aspergillus oryzae, Irpex, and Rhizomucor pusillus are extensively used for rennet production during the cheese making process. Most cheese producers expedite the curdling process with rennet, lactic acid, or plant-based enzymes from wild artichokes, fig leaves, safflowers, or melons. Other than plants and microbes, enzymes are also extracted from young ruminants.



The animal & microorganism segment is estimated to account for a larger share of the global dairy enzymes market in 2017. They are the most popular source of dairy enzymes preferred by manufacturers due to the extraction process. Also, comprehensive research on microorganisms is easier to perform and more cost-effective as compared to plant-sourced dairy enzymes.



The Asia Pacific region is projected to be the fastest-growing market for dairy enzymes during the forecast period as its economic importance has increased in the last decade. India and China are the main countries contributing to the high demand for dairy enzymes in this region. The region's enhanced industrialized growth over the years, followed by improvements in the food & beverage industry, has opened up new opportunities for the dairy enzymes market. The economic growth of the region, coupled with the increasing demand for nutritious dairy products is expected to fuel growth in the future.



North America is estimated to account for the largest share in 2017, followed by Europe. The consumption of dairy enzymes has been dominant in developed regions such as North America and Europe due to the presence of a developed food processing industry. The significant presence of a large dairy industry offers the North American dairy enzymes market a prominent consumer base as well as growth prospects.



The major restraining factors for the growth of the dairy enzymes market are the high chances of respiratory problems in people and allergies to various dairy products, especially milk. Dairy allergy is one of the major restraints for the dairy industry and, in turn, for the dairy enzymes market.



Companies such as Chr. Hansen (Denmark), DowDuPont (US), DSM (Netherlands), Novozymes (Denmark), and Kerry Group (Ireland) collectively account for a share of more than half of the dairy enzymes market. These companies have a strong presence in Europe and North America. They also have manufacturing facilities across these regions and a strong distribution network.

Market Dynamics



Drivers



Increasing Consumption of Dairy Products

Growing Demand for Low-Lactose and Lactose-Free Dairy Products

Environmental Benefits Associated With Enzymes

Restraints



Restricted Operational Conditions

Dairy Allergies

Opportunities



Emerging Applications of Dairy By-Products

Abolition of Milk Quota in the European Union

Challenges



Safety and Regulatory Aspects of Enzyme Use

Controversy Around Fermentation-Processed Chymosin (FPC) and GMO

Key Topics Covered:



1 Introduction



2 Research Methodology



3 Executive Summary



4 Premium Insights



5 Market Overview



6 Dairy Enzymes Market, By Type



7 Dairy Enzymes Market, By Application



8 Dairy Enzymes Market, By Source



9 Dairy Enzymes Market, By Region



10 Competitive Landscape



11 Company Profiles



Advanced Enzymes Technologies

Amano Enzyme

Biocatalysts

CHR. Hansen

Connell Bros .

. DSM

Dowdupont

Enmex

Fytozimus Biotech

Kerry Group

Novozymes

SternEnzym

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/3fvp5g/dairy_enzymes?w=5

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets

Related Links

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ROUND ROCK, Texas, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Dell Inc. announces it has been recognized by the Ethisphere Institute, a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, as one of the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies.

This is the fifth consecutive year Dell has been recognized. It is one of only three honorees in the technology industry, underscoring the company's commitment to leading with integrity and prioritizing ethical business practices.

"While the discourse around the world changed profoundly in 2017, a stronger voice emerged. Global corporations operating with a common rule of law are now society's strongest force to improve the human condition. This year we saw companies increasingly finding their voice. The World's Most Ethical Companies in particular continued to show exemplary leadership," explained Ethisphere's CEO, Timothy Erblich. "I congratulate everyone at Dell for being recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies."

In 2018, 135 honorees were recognized, spanning 23 countries and 57 industries. The twelfth class of honorees had record levels of involvement with their stakeholders and their communities around the world. Measuring and improving culture, leading authentically and committing to transparency, diversity and inclusion were all priorities for honorees.

"We are honored to be listed among the World's Most Ethical Companies for the fifth consecutive year," said Michael Dell, chairman and CEO, Dell Technologies. "Ethics and integrity matter at Dell. We work hard to earn our customers' trust, improve our communities, and inspire our team members through sound, ethical decision making. Because at Dell, how we do our work is just as important as the results we achieve."

Dell is committed to a culture of integrating ethics and compliance into daily decision-making. Dell believes acting ethically in all we do is good business and important to our customers, suppliers and strategic partners. As a result, critical programs have been developed to address key risks across the enterprise. These programs operate under the oversight of the Dell Global Risk and Compliance Council (GRCC), which includes members of the Dell Executive Leadership Team and strategic functional heads such as Ethics, Audit and Accounting. This Council ensures both top-level leadership support and appropriate resources are available for Dell's risk and compliance programs, and that ethical decision-making informs strategic decision-making at the company.

"Dell is thrilled to be recognized again as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies," said Michael McLaughlin, chief ethics and compliance officer, Dell. "This honor recognized Dell team members around the world who try each and every day to do the right thing in the service of our customers."

About Dell Inc.

Dell Inc., a part of Dell Technologies, provides customers of all sizes  including 98 percent of the Fortune 500  with a broad, innovative portfolio from edge to core to cloud. Dell Inc. comprises Dell client as well as Dell EMC infrastructure offerings that enable organizations to modernize, automate and transform their data center while providing today's workforce and consumers what they need to securely connect, produce, and collaborate from anywhere at any time.

Copyright  2018 Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved. Dell Technologies, Dell, EMC, Dell EMC and other trademarks are trademarks of Dell Inc. or its subsidiaries. Other trademarks may be trademarks of their respective owners.

SOURCE Dell Inc.DALLAS, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In a surprising decision, dissimilar to the previous ruling in Microsoft,1 a District of Columbia Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) denied three motions for summary judgment in an order dated January 26, 2018, finding that the transfer pricing method developed by Chainbridge Software LLC ("Chainbridge") was not arbitrary, capricious, or unreasonable. The ALJ's denial of the motions for summary decision concluded the District's Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) was justified in its implementation of this method.

In their appeals of combined assessments totaling almost $4 million, three taxpayersHess Corporation, Exxon Mobil Corporation, and Shell Oil Companychallenged the transfer pricing analysis provided by Chainbridge, citing violation of Internal Revenue Code section 482 regulations. Those regulations prohibit grouping controlled (related-party) and uncontrolled (third party) entities, unless there is no alternative appropriate method. The analysis in the taxpayers' challenge was similar to the analysis that formed the foundation of the taxpayer's appeal in Microsoft. The decision in that case invalidated Chainbridge's transfer pricing method, with the ALJ determining the failure to separate Microsoft's controlled transactions from uncontrolled transactions, as required by section 482 regulations, to the extent possible, resulted in the transfer pricing analysis being "arbitrary, capricious, and unreasonable," thereby invalidating the audit method.

In these assessments, the OTR maintained that Chainbridge considered the various methods available under the section 482 regulations and concluded that the Comparable Profits Method (CPM) was appropriate. Instead of analyzing activities on a transaction level, CPM analyzes business profits at the entity level.

A status conference for these three related cases is scheduled for March 7, 2018, unless a settlement can be reached to avoid trial.

1 Microsoft v. Office of Tax and Revenue [No. 2010-OTR-00012 (5/1/12)].

About Ryan

Ryan, an award-winning global tax services and software provider, is the largest Firm in the world dedicated exclusively to business taxes. The Firm provides an integrated suite of federal, state, local, and international tax services on a multi-jurisdictional basis, including tax recovery, consulting, advocacy, compliance, and technology services. Ryan is a five-time recipient of the International Service Excellence Award from the Customer Service Institute of America (CSIA) for its commitment to world-class client service. Empowered by the dynamic myRyan work environment, which is widely recognized as the most innovative in the tax services industry, Ryan's multi-disciplinary team of more than 2,100 professionals and associates serves over 14,000 clients in more than 45 countries, including many of the world's most prominent Global 5000 companies. More information about Ryan can be found at ryan.com. "Ryan" and "Firm" refer to the global organizational network, and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ryan International, each of which is a separate legal entity.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION CONTACTS:

Mark Nachbar

Principal

Ryan

630.515.0477

[email protected]

Mary Bernard

Director

Ryan

401.272.3363

[email protected]

SOURCE Ryan

Related Links

http://www.ryan.com

STOCKHOLM, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- DTach Svenska AB (DTach Sweden AB), a Scandinavian brand and designer of innovative solutions for wireless smartphone charging, recently released their newest product. The DTach desk stand with wireless charging offers an upright design, allowing users to keep an eye on their phone, read notifications and write messages - all while charging the battery.

Charging is done by using induction technology where the phone is placed directly on the charger and is held in place by magnets. The accessible design eases the inconvenience of top-up charging and keeps the user from running out of batteries during the day. Its tilted design provides the user total control over their smartphone and allows them to still use it while charging. DTach desk stand is also compatible with most QI-compatible devices and works seamlessly with both iPhone 8, iPhone X and the Samsung Galaxy S6/S6 Edge devices, so the whole family can use one set of base stations.

The sleek Scandinavian design blends in with a modern home or office environment. Customers have been providing some great feedback about its functionality and design.

Emelie W. wrote, "The DTach wireless smartphone charger tops up my phone both fast and efficiently. It's clean and stable design also blends in well with a modern furnishing. Another great thing about it is that it stands upright, allowing me to FaceTime or watch movies when my hands are full."

Another satisfied customer, Chuang K. noted, "Fantastic design that exceeded my expectations. What I also like about it is the fact that it charges my phone quickly. Would warmly recommend the DTach device to anyone looking for a proper wireless smartphone charger."

Robert Wollner is the CEO and co-founder of the company and the driving force behind DTach. The company aims to ensure that DTach products are appealing to the eye and have a clever and consistent design language. It's also important that products are user-friendly so Wollner relies on induction technology, eliminating the need for cords and cables.

Innovation is a huge priority to DTach Sweden. They want to create products that are smarter, faster and cooler than what's currently on the market while still keeping an eye on quality and ease of use for their customers.

All DTach products are certified by Apple and carry the MFi certification. The DTach desk stand with wireless charging is available on Amazon and Vidaxl. For more information about the product and company, visit Dtach-cases.com.

About DTach Svenska AB

DTach Svenska AB creates innovative and user-friendly solutions that improve the functionality of smartphones. The company specializes in solutions for wireless charging that contribute to a more frictionless life for users. To learn more, visit Dtach-cases.com.

Media contacts:

Robert Wollner

email: [email protected]

phone: +46 709 727679

SOURCE Dtach Svenska AB

Related Links

http://Dtach-cases.com

LUGANO, Switzerland, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

- Cross reference: Picture is available at AP Images ( http://www.apimages.com) -

The TAT 2018 Honorary Award for cancer drug development has been granted to Professor Jean-Charles Soria, for his pioneering role in cancer drug development across molecular targeted agents, precision medicine, and immunotherapy.[1] The award will be presented during the International Congress on Targeted Anticancer Therapies (TAT) 2018, to be held in Paris, France, 5-7 March. [2]

The TAT Honorary Award was established in the early 1990s to acknowledge distinguished cancer drug development experts who have devoted a major part of their careers to the discovery and development of better anticancer medicines.

Over the past 15 years, Soria has pushed forward the molecular enrichment of patient populations in early clinical trials. This has increased response rates and been a key factor in the successful development of a number of drugs, including osimertinib for lung cancer. He has launched large precision medicine trials in both early drug development and lung cancer.

In the immunotherapy field, Soria has contributed to first-in-man trials of atezolizumab and pembrolizumab, which have changed the treatment of cancer. He was deeply committed to obtaining paired tumour biopsies for a better understanding of the mechanism of action of anti PD(L)1 antibodies. He has promoted awareness of the unique toxicity profile of immunotherapies which can exhibit late side effects of a unique profile.

Soria was Editor-in-Chief of ESMO's flagship scientific journal Annals of Oncology from 2014 to 2017. [3] Under his leadership the journal reached an impact factor of 11.588, demonstrating his commitment to educating doctors and promoting new discoveries in cancer treatment and strengthening ESMO's position as the driver of "Good science. Better medicine. Best practice."

Soria said: "I am extremely happy to receive this award at a time when ESMO is taking over the organisation of the TAT Congress, which is 'the home of phase I oncology'. ESMO will provide this unique meeting the opportunity to grow and motivate more clinicians and scientists to understand and become passionate about drug development."

In his TAT 2018 Honorary Award Keynote Address, [4] Soria will outline how the drug development paradigm has changed over the past ten years. He said: "We have evolved from a classical drug development paradigm, which was a sequence of phase I, II, and III trials, to a situation where we now distinguish early drug development, encompassing phase I/II trials of registrational value and hundreds of patients, and late drug development, which is mainly phase III trials."

In early drug development, the focus is no longer on just safety/toxicity but also activity and biomarkers of response, and early drug development trials include a much bigger number of patients (up to a thousand). "The registration value of phase I trials, which was null before, is real and can lead to breakthrough designation and conditional approval," he said. "This change in paradigm has accelerated the development of new anticancer treatment for the benefit of cancer patients."

The reasons underlining this transition include the advent of precision medicine and use of molecular targeted agents in selected populations. This approach has led to trial enrichment and increased response rates, which regulators consider a potential outcome for registration. The advent of immunostimulatory antibodies has also fostered a completely new type of early drug development trials with implementation of large organ-specific parallel expansion cohorts.

Soria said: "This new paradigm creates a number of opportunities and challenges. Optimising drug development for immunotherapies, targeted agents and modern chemotherapies is key, especially when accounting for the clear need to combine them for cancer control." Finally, Soria said: "This is a strong recognition of a 15-year expanse in my career focusing on bringing new medicines to clinical practice for the benefit of cancer patients. It is emotionally an important award to me because early drug development is an area with few accolades. And therefore, to receive the TAT 2018 Honorary Award, reflects a stringent selection process."

About the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO)

ESMO is the leading professional organisation for medical oncology. With 17,000 members representing oncology professionals from over 150 countries worldwide, ESMO is the society of reference for oncology education and information. We are committed to supporting our members to develop and advance in a fast-evolving professional environment.

http://www.esmo.org

Twitter: @myESMO

Facebook: esmo.org

Youtube: ESMOchannel

About Annals of Oncology

Annals of Oncology is a monthly journal published on behalf of the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) by Oxford Journals, with an impact factor of 11.855.

https://academic.oup.com/annonc

Media Contact:

ESMO Press Office

E-mail- [email protected]

References

[1] Jean-Charles Soria was Full Professor of Medicine and Medical Oncology, University of Paris-Sud (Paris XI) from 2006 to 2017. During 2013 to 2017 he was Head of the Department of Therapeutic Innovation and Early Trials (DITEP), Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France and Adjunct Professor, MD Anderson Cancer Centre, Houston, US. He is currently Senior Vice President and Head of the Oncology Innovative Medicines Unit, MedImmune, Gaithersburg, US.

[2] TAT 2018: http://www.esmo.org/Conferences/TAT-2018-Targeted-Anticancer-Therapies .

[3] Annals of Oncology: https://academic.oup.com/annonc/pages/About

[4] TAT 2018 opening session, March, 08:30-09:15, Room Scene AB. https://cslide.ctimeetingtech.com/tat2018/attendee/confcal/show/session/2

SOURCE European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO)BELLEVUE, Wash., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The top cruise travel agency franchise in North America, Expedia CruiseShipCenters, announced today a milestone-heavy year for the growing brand. The brick and mortar travel agency achieved 20 percent year-over-year growth, opened 25 new franchise locations and welcomed a record-breaking 1,773 new Vacation Consultants to its network. Looking forward to 2018, the brand expects another high performing year with 35 new franchise openings projected.

Adding to the several notable growth achievements over the past year, Expedia CruiseShipCenters broke into Entrepreneur Magazine's annual Franchise 500 ranking. The prestigious ranking is a testament to the brand's ability to grow its footprint across North America while continuing to provide unparalleled franchisee support and customer service. Riding this wave of success, the leading travel company has announced plans to develop new and established markets across the United States in 2018, with particular focus on Florida, Texas, Georgia, Illinois, Washington and Arizona.

"2017 was a terrific year, and it has provided us with insight on what we'll be capable of achieving in 2018," said Matthew Eichhorst, President of Expedia CruiseShipCenters. "As the industry continues to thrive, with fleets expanding and new lines being introduced to the waters, we're eager to play an integral part of this booming business while continuing to welcome new Franchise Partners and Vacation Consultants to our expanding network."

Expedia CruiseShipCenters' growth is in part driven by the continued expansion of the cruising industry. As noted in the recent Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) report, cruise travel is expected to rise in 2018, boosting the global economy. An estimated 27.2M passengers are expected to cruise (demand has increased 20.5 percent in last five years). Additionally, 27 new ocean, river and specialty ships are scheduled to debut. After years of stagnant performance, the cruise industry is coming back with a vengeance, contributing more than $126B in total output worldwide.

In addition to stimulating growth of the brand's internal assets and franchise development, Expedia CruiseShipCenters was recognized by several industry leaders, receiving the President's Award for Overall Achievement from Royal Caribbean International, Chairman's Award from Carnival Cruise Line, 2017 Canadian Retail Partner of the Year from MSC Cruises, Travel Agency Partner West (awarded to Expedia CruiseShipCenters Port Coquitlam) and Travel Agency Partner Quebec (awarded to Expedia CruiseShipCenters Quebec) from Norwegian Cruise Lines and the Canada Region Strategic Market Account of the Year from Celebrity Cruises (Awarded to Expedia CruiseShipCenters Oakville South). Each honor provided further example of how Expedia CruiseShipCenters' franchisees set the industry standard in quality and service, pushing the brand forward as a top competitor in the travel agency space.

For more information about franchise opportunities with Expedia CruiseShipCenters visit www.expediafranchise.com.

About Expedia CruiseShipCenters

Expedia CruiseShipCenters provides exceptional value and expert advice for travelers booking cruises and vacations through its network of over 240 retail travel agency franchises. As part of the Expedia group family of brands, the company's more than 5,000 Vacation Consultants sell a wide range of vacation products including cruises, flights, hotels, vacation packages, tours, excursions and more. The company has been navigating spectacular vacation experiences for customers across North America for 30 years. For more information on Expedia CruiseShipCenters, visit www.expediafranchise.com.

Expedia and CruiseShipCenters are trademarks or registered trademarks of Expedia, Inc. or its affiliates in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.  2018 Expedia, Inc. All rights reserved. CST # 2029030-50 and CST # 20893-43

Media Contact: Kelly McNamara, Fishman PR, [email protected] or 847-945-1300

SOURCE Expedia CruiseShipCenters

Related Links

http://www.expediafranchise.com

Published Feb. 12, the study's principal investigator is Q. Richard Lu, PhD, director of the Cincinnati Children's Brain Tumor Center.

To identify possible therapies, the international team of investigators performed small-molecule epigenetic screening for compounds that inhibit enzymes involved in epigenetic changes on chromosomes. These changes alter how gene activity in cells is regulated. The authors identified small molecular inhibitors already used to treat certain cancers and tested them in experimental treatments on mice with injured sciatic nerves.

The molecular compounds target the enzyme HDAC3 (histone deacetylase 3). Study data show that HDAC3 inhibits regenerating insulation on recovering peripheral nerves.

"Remarkably, temporary inhibition of HDAC3 robustly accelerated the formation of myelin that helps insulate peripheral nerves," Lu says. "This promoted functional recovery in the animals after peripheral nerve injury."

Restoring Signal Relays

The peripheral nervous system relays signals from the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) to limbs and organs. HDAC3 is an enzyme found in humans and mice. Its usual job in peripheral nerve formation is to act as a molecular brake on the production of the myelin coating by Schwann cells.

After peripheral nerve injury, HDAC3 initiates epigenetic changes to chromosomes and gene regulation that excessively restrict myelin regeneration. This results in nerve insulation that is too thin or not totally formed, blocking or slowing signals between the spinal cord, extremities and organs.

Timing is Crucial

Researchers carefully timed their targeted treatments when inhibiting HDAC3, treating the mouse models of nerve injury only during a critical phase of nerve regeneration. This resulted in the right amount of re-myelination to restore normal function in the animals.

Getting the timing right on transient treatment is critical, Lu says. Researchers show that blocking HDAC3 for too long allows myelin to overgrow and cause excessively thick insulation. This also can lead to functional problems in extremities, according to study data.

From Science to Medicine

Translating data in the current study to clinical application in human patients will require extensive additional research, Lu says. Now that the prospective therapy has been successfully tested in mice, researchers are exploring additional research in animal models that more closely mimic the repair of injured peripheral nerves in people. This includes looking specifically at some demyelinating diseases that affect the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis.

Lu said this work will allow scientists to replicate and verify their findings in mice and other laboratory models. They also will be able to test possible dosing levels. If results are positive, Lu said researchers could pursue possible Phase I clinical trials in patients having deficient myelin in their peripheral and central nervous systems.

Other collaborating institutions on the study include co-authors from the Children's Hospital of Fudan University (Shanghai, China), the Lerner Research Institute at the Cleveland Clinic, the Department Biological Chemistry & Pharmacology at the Ohio State University (Columbus, OH), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NIH), the Washington University School of Medicine (St. Louis), and the Department of Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine (Gottingen, Germany).

Funding support came in part from grants by the National Institutes of Health (R37NS096359, R01NS075243, R35NS097303, R01AR064551-01A1) and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS-RG1507).

SOURCE Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Related Links

http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 12, 2018

FCA US automatic transmission chief engineer honored during 32nd annual event

Award recognizes "high merit, impact on people and value to the community and society"

Two additional FCA US engineers recognized as Modern Day Technology Leaders

U.S. Black Engineer & Information Technology magazine awarded its 2018 Black Engineer of the Year (BEYA) Edward Welburn Legacy Award to Eric Burnett, Automatic Transmission Chief Engineer, FCA US LLC. Burnett joins a long list of FCA US technical business leaders recognized over the years for their technical achievements, management skill, leadership and community service.

Burnett received his award at the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HCBU) Engineering Deans Power Breakfast on February 10 in Washington, D.C., attended by distinguished HBCU engineers, deans and other prominent leaders from industry, academia and the military. The awards breakfast was part of the BEYA Global Competitiveness Conference that took place February 8-10.

"Eric has made significant contributions to the research and development of automatic transmissions during his 23-plus year career at our Company," said Michael Solt, Director, Automatic Transmission Engineering, FCA US LLC. "He is a highly respected technical leader who consistently makes tough decisions. Eric inspires and motivates others to achieve a higher performance of themselves and for our products. He demonstrates the highest character and integrity in everything he does and is a true asset to the Company."

Burnett was named Chief Engineer, Automatic Transmissions at FCA US in 2017. In this position, he is the single point of contact in the development of 8-speed rear-wheel-drive transmissions used in FCA US vehicles sold in North America. Prior to his current role, Burnett was Chief Engineer, Purchased Light Duty Transmissions, FCA US LLC.

Burnett graduated from Oakland University with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering in 1994 and entered the prestigious Chrysler Institute of Engineering (CIE) program, a two-year technical leadership development program at FCA US. While in the CIE program, Burnett earned his Master of Science in mechanical engineering from Oakland University in 1996.

Burnett is a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers and a frequent presenter at the organization's conferences.

"It is a tremendous honor to receive recognition for my accomplishments," Burnett said. "I truly owe it all to my family and peers that have facilitated my continued growth and shared in my successes. It is my privilege and responsibility to share my life lessons with the community and the next generation of African-American leaders."

U.S. Black Engineer & Information Technology magazine also honored Modern Day Technology Leaders at the conference, "bright, high-performance women and men shaping the future of engineering, science, and technology who demonstrate superior technical skills and leadership capability."

The following FCA US employees earned recognition from BEYA as Modern Day Technology Leaders for 2018:

Ikpemi Sabageh, Release Engineer for Shift Systems in Chassis

Kahiree Gans, Assistant Chief Engineer for the Jeep and Truck Platforms

FCA US has a longstanding commitment to recruiting diverse talent and supporting STEM education initiatives for minorities, including supporting organizations such as BEYA, the Society of Hispanic Professionals Engineers and others.

The Company also supports various organizations that advance women's involvement in STEM professions, including Michigan Council of Women in Technology, the Society of Women Engineers and Inforum's AutomotiveNEXT.

About the Edward Welburn Legacy Award

The award honors Edward Welburn of General Motors who, in 2003, became the first African-American in the automotive industry to achieve the position of chief designer. Welburn was the 2015 recipient of the Black Engineer of the Year award.

About U.S. Black Engineer and Information Technology Magazine

U.S. Black Engineer and Information Technology magazine provides news and information about black engineers, technologists and entrepreneurs, as well as information on programs such as the Black Engineer of the Year Awards and the Top Supporters of Engineering Programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities program.

About FCA US LLC

FCA US LLC is a North American automaker based in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It designs, manufactures, and sells or distributes vehicles under the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo brands, as well as the SRT performance designation. The Company also distributes Mopar and Alfa Romeo parts and accessories. FCA US is building upon the historic foundations of Chrysler Corp., established in 1925 by industry visionary Walter P. Chrysler and Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (F.I.A.T.), founded in Italy in 1899 by pioneering entrepreneurs, including Giovanni Agnelli. FCA US is a member of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) family of companies. (NYSE: FCAU/ MTA: FCA).

FCA, the seventh-largest automaker in the world based on total annual vehicle sales, is an international automotive group. FCA is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "FCAU" and on the Mercato Telematico Azionario under the symbol "FCA."

Follow FCA US news and video on:

Company blog: blog.fcanorthamerica.com

Company website: www.fcanorthamerica.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FiatChrysler.NorthAmerica/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/FiatChrysler_NA

Twitter: www.twitter.com/FiatChrysler_NA

Twitter (Spanish): www.twitter.com/fcausespanol

YouTube: www.youtube.com/fcanorthamerica

Media website: media.fcanorthamerica.com

SOURCE FCA US LLC

Related Links

http://www.fcanorthamerica.com

SAN JOSE, Calif. and TORONTO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Silicon Valley analytics software firm, FICO (NYSE: FICO), today announces that Kevin Deveau has been appointed North American Insurance Practice Lead for Insurance, which covers Life & Annuity (L & A), Health, Property & Casualty (P&C) and Reinsurance. Deveau will also continue overseeing the company's Canadian operations as vice president and managing director of FICO Canada.

In his new role, Deveau will be responsible for strategic business development and growing FICO's footprint in North America's insurance sector. In particular, his leadership will expand FICO's cloud-based decision management and analytics offerings to the insurance industry to deploy faster, high-impact capabilities aimed at enhancing underwriting, claims and customer interaction.

"Kevin is a proven leader with a track record of successfully building businesses, and we are thrilled to appoint him to this new role overseeing FICO's insurance portfolio in North America," said Wayne Huyard, executive vice president of sales, services and marketing at FICO. "His sector expertise in insurance, coupled with his success in helping clients thrive in a competitive market, make Kevin the perfect choice to help industry organizations solve complex business problems with FICO's deep analytics and decision management solutions."

"FICO has been in the forefront of helping businesses in their digital transformations, with analytics-based solutions that improve their operations, security and customer experiences," said Kevin Deveau. "The insurance sector is increasingly adopting cloud-based analytics and decision management solutions that the retail and financial sectors have been utilizing for a while now. Our expertise in analytics software and specifically with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, will enable insurance organizations to help settle claims and mitigate fraud, communicate with policyholders and underwrite risk."

As a leading analytics software company, FICO helps businesses globally make better decisions that drive higher levels of growth, profitability and customer satisfaction. Deveau led FICO's business in Canada for nearly four years, overseeing operations and driving customer growth to include many of the country's largest companies. Deveau has more than 35 years of experience in providing enterprise software solutions to clients in insurance, financial services, health care, retail and government sectors across multiple lines of business globally.

About FICO

FICO (NYSE: FICO) powers decisions that help people and businesses around the world prosper. Founded in 1956 and based in Silicon Valley, the company is a pioneer in the use of predictive analytics and data science to improve operational decisions. FICO holds more than 180 US and foreign patents on technologies that increase profitability, customer satisfaction and growth for businesses in financial services, telecommunications, health care, retail and many other industries. Using FICO solutions, businesses in more than 100 countries do everything from protecting 2.6 billion payment cards from fraud, to helping people get credit, to ensuring that millions of airplanes and rental cars are in the right place at the right time.

Learn more at www.fico.com.

Join the conversation at https://twitter.com/fico & http://www.fico.com/en/blogs/

FICO is a registered trademark of Fair Isaac Corporation in Canada, the US and other countries.

SOURCE Fair Isaac Corporation

Related Links

http://www.fico.com

ATLANTA, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of Southern Company (NYSE: SO) today announced the appointment of Dr. Ernest Moniz, the former United States Secretary of Energy and renowned physicist, as an independent director effective March 1, 2018. He will stand for election to the board of directors by stockholders at the 2018 annual meeting. Dr. Moniz will serve on the Operations, Environmental and Safety Committee and the Nominating, Governance and Corporate Responsibility Committee of the board. He also will serve on the Business Security Subcommittee, which focuses on cyber and physical risks across the Southern Company system.

"Ernie Moniz enhances our board by bringing a strong energy science and technology background together with broad expertise in energy and environmental policy, which will be invaluable as we continue to develop innovative solutions to shape America's energy future," said Chairman, President and CEO Thomas A. Fanning.

"I have long admired Southern Company for its innovative approach to research and development within the clean energy space, and look forward to joining the board," said Moniz. "Tom is an industry leader and I'm eager to work with him and the entire board in helping Southern advance at a time of great change in the energy world."

Dr. Moniz served as United States Secretary of Energy from 2013 to early 2017. As Secretary, he advanced energy technology innovation, nuclear security and strategic stability, cutting-edge capabilities for the American scientific research community and environmental stewardship. He was a member of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology from 2009 to 2013 and received the Department of Defense Distinguished Public Service Award in 2016.

Dr. Moniz currently is the chief executive officer and co-chair of the Nuclear Threat Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing the threat of nuclear, biological, radiological and chemical weapons, and chief executive officer of Energy Futures Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to driving innovation in energy technology, policy and business models.

Prior to his appointment as Secretary of Energy, Dr. Moniz was a faculty member at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for over four decades. He was the founding director of the MIT Energy Initiative and Director of the Laboratory for Energy and the Environment where he was a leader of multidisciplinary technology and policy studies on the future of nuclear power, coal, nuclear fuel cycles, natural gas and solar energy in a low-carbon world. Dr. Moniz is currently the Cecil and Ida Green Professor of Physics and Engineering Systems emeritus at MIT. Dr. Moniz also is a non-resident Senior Fellow at the Harvard Belfer Center.

About Southern Company

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is America's premier energy company, with 46,000 megawatts of generating capacity and 1,500 billion cubic feet of combined natural gas consumption and throughput volume serving 9 million customers through its subsidiaries. The company provides clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy through electric operating companies in four states, natural gas distribution companies in seven states, a competitive generation company serving wholesale customers across America and a nationally recognized provider of customized energy solutions, as well as fiber optics and wireless communications. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and affordable prices that are below the national average. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, Southern Company and its subsidiaries are inventing America's energy future by developing the full portfolio of energy resources, including carbon-free nuclear, 21st century coal, natural gas, renewables and energy efficiency, and creating new products and services for the benefit of customers. Southern Company has been named by the U.S. Department of Defense and G.I. Jobs magazine as a top military employer, recognized among the Top 50 Companies for Diversity by DiversityInc, listed by Black Enterprise magazine as one of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity and designated a Top Employer for Hispanics by Hispanic Network. Visit our website at www.southerncompany.com.

SOURCE Southern Company

Related Links

http://www.southerncompany.com

BETHESDA, Md., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Friends of Yemin Orde is pleased to announce that Jeffrey and Kimberly Taylor Hirschfeld will serve as Co-Chairs of its international gala, May 8, 2018, at the Mandarin Oriental in New York City. The event will honor Israeli visionary educator, Chaim Peri, for decades of devotion and advocacy to youth at risk in Israel. Visit yeminordegala.org for details.

Jeffrey Hirschfeld has served as a board member of Friends of Yemin Orde since 2011 and, along with his wife, Kimberly, actively advocates on behalf of Yemin Orde and its vital mission to help transform the lives of Israel's fragile youth. Hirschfeld and his wife are business leaders in the New York area and serve as principals at Hirschfeld Properties LLC and Hirschfeld Management, Inc. (HMI), a diversified real estate development company in New York City.

Chaim Peri is Founder, Village Way Educational Initiatives, and Director-Emeritus, Yemin Orde Youth Village, located in Israel, which provides a home, school and safe haven to 430 fragile immigrant youth. Tikkun Ha'Lev, which means mending the heart in Hebrew, is an integral element of the Village Way educational methodology developed by Peri when he served as Director of the Village for nearly 30 years.

"Chaim Peri is not only a close friend, but also one of our personal heroes, so it is extra sweet and special to be honoring him at this year's event,"said Jeffrey Hirschfeld. "It will be a special evening that will inspire you and remind you that without our children and those who nurture, guide and protect them, the world cannot and would not exist."

Matisyahu's international popularity and his unique acoustic styling will provide for an intimate and one-of-a-kind performance, said Hirschfeld.

Proceeds from the fundraising gala will go toward supporting the excellent academic programs and extra-curricular activities for the at-risk youth at Yemin Orde Youth Village, as well as the expansion of Village Way Educational Initiatives' educational methodology, called the Village Way, in 36 youth villages, public high schools and therapeutic residential communities throughout Israel.

CONTACT: Barbara Sherbill, 202-237-0286, [email protected]

SOURCE Friends of Yemin Orde

Related Links

https://www.yeminorde.org/

In 2018, 135 honorees were recognized, spanning 23 countries and 57 industries. The twelfth class of honorees had record levels of involvement with their stakeholders and their communities around the world. Measuring and improving culture, leading authentically and committing to transparency, diversity and inclusion were all priorities for honorees.

"From our company's inception in 1927, Gallagher has always been committed to maintaining the highest standards of moral and ethical behavior," said J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO. "Operating with integrity is a critical component of the Gallagher culture and we are truly honored to again be recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies in 2018."

"We view the World's Most Ethical Companies award as a great recognition for our company. More importantly, we value Ethisphere's research into highly ethical operations and we use that information to drive our ongoing improvement efforts," added Thomas J. Tropp, Corporate Vice President  Ethics and Sustainability for Gallagher.

"While the discourse around the world changed profoundly in 2017, a stronger voice emerged. Global corporations operating with a common rule of law are now society's strongest force to improve the human condition. This year we saw companies increasingly finding their voice. The World's Most Ethical Companies in particular continued to show exemplary leadership," explained Ethisphere's CEO, Timothy Erblich. "I congratulate everyone at Gallagher for being recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies."

Ethics & Performance

Once again, the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies have proven that operating with integrity leads to greater financial performance. Research has found that, when indexed, listed World's Most Ethical Companies outperformed the U.S. Large Cap Index over five years by 10.72 percent and over three years by 4.88 percent. Ethisphere refers to this as the Ethics Premium.

Methodology & Scoring

The World's Most Ethical Companies assessment is based upon the Ethisphere Institute's Ethics Quotient (EQ) framework, which offers a quantitative way to assess a company's performance in an objective, consistent and standardized manner. The information collected provides a comprehensive sampling of definitive criteria of core competencies rather than all aspects of corporate governance, risk, sustainability, compliance and ethics.

Scores are generated in five key categories: ethics and compliance program (35 percent), corporate citizenship and responsibility (20 percent), culture of ethics (20 percent), governance (15 percent) and leadership, innovation and reputation (10 percent). All companies that participate in the assessment process receive their scores, providing them with valuable insights into how they stack up against leading organizations.

Honorees

The full list of the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies can be found at https://worldsmostethicalcompanies.com/honorees

Best practices and insights from the 2018 honorees will be released in a report and webcast in March and April of this year. Sign up to receive the report.

About Gallagher

Gallagher, a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm, is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. The company has operations in 33 countries and offers client service capabilities in more than 150 countries around the world through a network of correspondent brokers and consultants.

About the Ethisphere Institute

The Ethisphere Institute is the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices that fuel corporate character, marketplace trust and business success. Ethisphere has deep expertise in measuring and defining core ethics standards using data-driven insights that help companies enhance corporate character and measure and improve culture. Ethisphere honors superior achievement through its World's Most Ethical Companies recognition program and provides a community of industry experts with the Business Ethics Leadership Alliance (BELA). More information about Ethisphere can be found at: https://ethisphere.com.

Gallagher Media Contact

Linda J. Collins

630.285.4009

[email protected]

Ethisphere Media Contact

Clea Nabozny

480.397.2658

[email protected]

SOURCE GallagherSOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- GigaGen Inc., a biopharmaceutical company developing novel antibody therapies, will be presenting the findings of its research on novel approaches to antibody development and T cell discovery for diseases of immune dysregulation at two upcoming Keystone Symposia conferences. The first conference, "Emerging Cellular Therapies: T Cells and Beyond," will take place Feb. 11-15 in Keystone, Colo., and the second, "Antibodies as Drugs: Translating Molecules into Treatments," will be held Feb. 25-March 1 in Whistler, British Columbia.

Matthew Spindler , Ph.D., Director of T Cell Engineering at GigaGen, will present poster #3012, titled " Discovery of Potent Anti-Tumor TCRs in Recombinant TCR Libraries Generated from Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes ," from 7:30-10 p.m. MST on Wednesday , Feb. 14, at Keystone Resort in Keystone , Colo.

, Ph.D., Director of T Cell Engineering at GigaGen, will present poster #3012, titled " ," from , Feb. 14, at Keystone Resort in , Colo. Adam Adler , Ph.D., Vice President of Research and Development at GigaGen, will present poster #1001, titled "Rapid Discovery of High-Affinity, Human Antibodies Against 17 Immuno-Oncology Targets Using Molecular Genomic Screening Methods," from 7:30-10 p.m. PST on Monday , Feb. 26, at the Whistler Conference Centre in Whistler, British Columbia .

The Keystone Symposia on Molecular and Cellular Biology is a nonprofit organization that convenes a series of peer-reviewed conferences throughout the year on a broad range of life science disciplines, with the goal of serving as a catalyst for biomedical advancement.

About GigaGen

GigaGen is a privately-held, preclinical biopharmaceutical company developing novel antibody therapies to treat diseases of immune dysregulation. GigaGen's deep understanding of immune dysregulation is enabled by industry-leading technology that quickly captures the genetic makeup of entire immune repertoires to analyze B cells at a rate of millions per hour, while simultaneously identifying their antigen and protein binders. GigaGen has a robust internal pipeline consisting of novel antibodies against immuno-oncology targets, in addition to the first recombinant intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) for patients with immune deficiency. For more information visit www.GigaGen.com.

SOURCE GigaGen Inc.

Related Links

http://www.gigagen.com

Liza Aizupiete, Globitex Managing Director and Cofounder, said, "We are proud and humbled to have had so much support from contributors from all around the globe who believe and see the need to help us create an industrial level commodities cryptocurrency exchange.

"We as a team at Globitex look forward to continuing to build a professional cryptocurrency exchange that will allow traders to buy and sell commodities such as gold, coffee and crude oil in large volumes around the world for cryptocurrencies.

"The GBX token will be an integral part of the Globitex trading infrastructure, allowing us to promote new listings and thus advance the global crypto economy as a whole."

For more information, please visit the exchange at www.globitex.com where you can sign up for an account within minutes. The platform is especially geared towards institutional market participants, offering NAV reports and daily statements on trading, order and payments.

About Globitex

Globitex is an institutional grade cryptocurrency exchange cofounded by former Bitcoin Foundation Executive Director Jon Matonis and a group of experienced traders. Globitex group company NexPay UAB was granted an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license by the Bank of Lithuania at the end of last year, allowing it to carry out payment services, open IBAN accounts and issue e-money in the EU.

The Globitex exchange represents a significant step toward widespread adoption and accessibility of bitcoin and bitcoin protocol-based cryptocurrencies as a unit of account suitable for global trade, with no geographic, political, or monetary borders.

SOURCE Globitex

Related Links

http://www.globitex.com

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- GoDaddy Inc. (NYSE: GDDY), the world's largest cloud platform dedicated to small, independent ventures, today announced that it will host an Investor Day on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at its Global Technology Center in Tempe, Arizona.

Key members of GoDaddy's management team will host a series of presentations, product demonstrations and a Q&A session beginning at 1:00 p.m. local time. The event, along with supporting materials, can be accessed live or via an archived replay through the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at https://investors.godaddy.net/.

Analysts and institutional investors interested in attending are encouraged to contact GoDaddy at [email protected] to request an invitation.

About GoDaddy

GoDaddy powers the world's largest cloud platform dedicated to small, independent ventures. With more than 17 million customers worldwide and nearly 73 million domain names under management, GoDaddy is the place people come to name their idea, build a professional website, attract customers and manage their work. Our mission is to give our customers the tools, insights and the people to transform their ideas and personal initiative into success. To learn more about the company visit www.GoDaddy.com.

Source: GoDaddy Inc.

SOURCE GoDaddy Inc.

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NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Havas Health & You, a global leader in health-and-wellness communications, announced today the launch of Havas Health Plus, the first creative agency designed to tap into the deep insights offered by advances in emotional technology. For clients around the world, Havas Health Plus (also known as HH+ or The +) will uncover the emotional triggers that inspire scalable, transformative experiences and make a difference in human connectivity and healthy lifestyles.

Havas Health Plus will be led by a pair of industry experts: Dennis Urbaniak will serve as CEO of the agency while continuing in his position as chief digital officer for Havas Health & You. Allison Ceraso will step into the newly created role of president and chief experience officer (CXO), in which she will create an experience design model that integrates creative, content, sensory design and UX.

"HH+ is a great example of how we continue to evolve ourselves as a network to push our creative and strategic work even further," said Donna Murphy, global CEO of Havas Health & You. "This new agency model embraces an agile work process that's become necessary in a new era of health and wellness. The convergence of technology, data and creativity has obliterated traditional barriers, and we're taking advantage for our clients."

Havas Health Plus will employ a new agency model organized by practices. Each practice will be helmed by a lead who can hone the expertise and expand the capabilities of that practice.

"With a model based on agility, we're enabling decision making and increasing collaboration across the team, and driving innovation for our clients," Urbaniak said. "We've empowered this group to move quickly, to take risks responsibly, to build platforms, to learn and grow. In this approach, we're blowing up the normal operating processes so our agency can balance our functional expertise with an industry-leading understanding of what drives human behavior and impacts human experience."

"Clients are looking for outstanding creative that works hard for their business, effectively tells great brand stories and is efficiently targeted to deliver true ROI," Ceraso said. "From producing breakthrough work to serving it up in the right channels to optimizing and measuring, great creative needs to be actionable. And today it can be."

Assisting Urbaniak and Ceraso will be two key practice leads. Bam Zahraie, who has more than a decade of expertise creating digital solutions for Microsoft and Amazon, will head up digital innovation and data analysis. Todd Kolm will oversee the in-house Digital Outcomes Lab, which allows HH+ to drive initiatives through rapid prototyping to successful product and program development.

Explore Havas Health Plus here: havashealthplus.com.

About Havas Group

Havas is one of the world's largest global communications groups. Founded in 1835 in Paris, the Group employs 20,000 people in over 100 countries and is fully integrated into Vivendi. Havas Group is committed to being the world's best company at creating meaningful connections between people and brands through creativity, media and innovation. Based on a client-centric model across media and creative, the Havas Group is the most integrated company in its sector. We operate with three business units (creative, media and healthcare & wellness) within our Havas Villages all over the world where teams share the same premises ensuring agility and a seamless experience for clients. Further information about Havas Group is available on the company's website: www.havasgroup.com. #ToBetterTogether

About Havas Health & You

Havas Health & You unites Havas Life, Health4Brands (H4B), Lynx, Havas Life PR and Havas Health Plus, all wholly owned health and communications networks, with the consumer health businesses and practices of Havas Creative Group. Its customer-centric approach has the talent, tenacity and technology that health-and-wellness companies, brands and people need to thrive in today's world. For more information, go to www.HavasHealthandYou.com.

Contact

To learn more about Havas Health Plus, please contact:

Nikki Kria

Havas PR

646-643-2948

[email protected]

SOURCE Havas Health & YouCAMBRIDGE, Mass., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Global industrial and financial holding company HNA Group announced today that Chairman Chen Feng will speak about the company's global development at Harvard Business School on February 12. The speech comes on the heels of a recently published Harvard Business Review case study update that outlines HNA's Group's growth and philanthropic mission.

The case study is titled HNA Group: Global Excellence with Chinese Characteristics (B) and was first published by Harvard Business School Professor William C. Kirby in January 2016. HNA Group has gone global. The refreshed publication describes HNA Group's history as an aviation company and outlines its philanthropic philosophy, commitment to innovation, and strategic business model.

"I'm honored to have the opportunity to speak with future business leaders about HNA Group's global presence and growth," said Chen Feng, HNA Group Chairman. "HNA Group's tremendous growth is due in large part to the company's commitment to following a business model that emphasizes a philanthropic mission along with investing in innovative companies. I look forward to joining Professor Kirby to elaborate on his work."

In addition to outlining HNA Group's recent acquisitions and major deals, the case study lists the company's charitable projects, recent awards and recognition, investment criteria and financial performance. It also describes HNA's business model, BIM, which stand for Building, Industry, Investment, Innovation and Management. Under this model, HNA uses a private equity style management to govern its industrial holdings and drive growth through investment and innovation.

Chairman Chen Feng will discuss this case study and HNA's global development in his speech at 10am on February 12, 2018 at the CGIS South Building, Harvard University. The forum will be open to Harvard Business School students and faculty.

About HNA Group

HNA Group is a global Fortune 500 company focused on tourism, logistics and financial services. Since its founding in 1993, HNA Group has evolved from a regional airline based on Hainan Island in southern China into a global company with approximately $145 billion of assets, over $90 billion in annual revenues, and an international workforce of 410,000 employees, primarily across America, Europe and Asia. HNA's tourism business is a fast-growing, vertically-integrated global player with market-leading positions in aviation, hotels and travel services. HNA operates and invests in nearly 3,200 hotels with over 380,000 rooms across major markets, and has 1,250 aircraft carrying nearly 100 million passengers to 270 cities worldwide. HNA's Logistics business is a leader in logistics and supply chain management with capabilities in shipping and equipment manufacturing, maritime transportation, third-party payment platforms and project finance. In financial services, HNA is China's largest non-bank leasing company, and a leading provider of a diverse set of businesses in equipment leasing, insurance, asset management, investment banking and credit services. For more information, visit www.hnagroup.com.

Media Contact:

David Chen

+1-646-651-5579

[email protected]

SOURCE HNA Group

Related Links

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COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Huntington Bank is the nation's second largest originator of Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) loans at the close of SBA fiscal first quarter 2018. In total, Huntington's expanded SBA program achieved record quarterly production, accounting for a 44 percent increase in loan originations to more than 1,200, and a 78 percent increase in dollars lent to $291 million compared to SBA fiscal first quarter 2017.

Huntington now leads loan originations in Illinois and Wisconsin for the first time, while maintaining its second place national ranking for total 7(a) loans and its ranking as the top 7(a) lender for total loans and dollars lent throughout its eight-state core footprint.

"SBA loans continue to be a smart strategic advantage for a wide range of businesses, from those looking to get a start, to those focused on gaining and keeping a competitive edge," said Huntington Business Banking Director, Michael Wamsganz.

During the SBA fiscal first quarter, Huntington saw high overall demand for capital supporting business acquisitions, start-up financing and investments in equipment upgrades and infrastructure.

Huntington's SBA program director, Maggie Ference, reports business owners confirm they are feeling more grounded as a result of the drop in the tax rates, which bodes well for local and regional economies.

"Not only are small business owners encouraged by the drop in the tax rates for both businesses and individuals, but they're telling us their overall feeling is that of a much more stable environment," says Ference. "As they look to expand and grow, we're prepared to help business owners explore innovative ways to use excess funds in 2018 that are no longer earmarked for tax payments in 2019."

The number of businesses Huntington helped through SBA lending in each state during the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 includes:

Ohio : 547 loans totaling $146 million

547 loans totaling Michigan : 353 loans totaling $60.9 million

353 loans totaling Indiana : 99 loans totaling $17.6 million

99 loans totaling Illinois : 77 loans totaling $29.3 million

77 loans totaling Western Pennsylvania : 50 loans totaling $10.8 million

50 loans totaling Wisconsin : 31 loans totaling $11.1 million

31 loans totaling Kentucky : 23 loans totaling $6.5 million

23 loans totaling Florida : 18 loans totaling $6.8 million

18 loans totaling West Virginia : 9 loans totaling $254,000

Huntington ended SBA fiscal year 2017 as the nation's second largest originator of Small Business Administration SBA 7(a) loans and has ranked as a top-three national SBA 7(a) lender since 2011 and the premier 7(a) lender in its core Midwest footprint since 2008.

The SBA 7(a) lending program provides government backing, enabling small business lenders to extend credit to business owners who are not yet able to access conventional bank financing with reduced lender risk. For more information, visit www.huntington.com/SmallBusiness/loans/sba-guarantee-business-loans.

About Huntington

Huntington Bancshares Incorporated is a regional bank holding company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, with $104 billion of assets and a network of 966 branches and 1,848 ATMs across eight Midwestern states. Founded in 1866, The Huntington National Bank and its affiliates provide consumer, small business, commercial, treasury management, wealth management, brokerage, trust, and insurance services. Huntington also provides auto dealer, equipment finance, national settlement and capital market services that extend beyond its core states. Visit huntington.com for more information.

SOURCE Huntington Bank

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LOS ANGELES, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Driving a car is always a risky proposition - no matter how safe you are, accidents can still happen. With that said, there are safe driving techniques that drivers can use to minimize the likelihood of an accident. In a new statement to the press, the car accident lawyers at I Accident Lawyer Los Angeles share some safe driving tips for Los Angeles motorists.

"When you're driving in a big city like Los Angeles, the most important step is minimizing distractions," comments I Accident Lawyer. "These include cell phones, eating in the car, applying makeup while you're driving and so on."

The Los Angeles car accident lawyers also recommend following all traffic laws. "Speeding won't help you reach your destination faster," says I Accident Lawyer. "It only increases your odds of getting a ticket or being involved in an accident. Leave yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, without the need to speed."

Taking a defensive driving course is also recommended. "Not only will this help you hone your driving skills, but it can actually help you save money on your auto insurance premiums," comments I Accident Lawyer.

The firm also recommends that drivers avoid getting behind the wheel while they are drowsy; that they always adjust their mirrors before starting a trip, and that they reach out to a reputable Los Angeles car accident lawyer should they find themselves in an accident and need legal help.

ABOUT I ACCIDENT LAWYER LOS ANGELES

The attorneys at I Accident Lawyer offer personal injury representation to individuals across California, Nevada and Colorado, and especially to those seriously injured in auto collisions. Over 25 years, the firm has won more than $150 million in settlements*. More information is available at www.iaccidentlawyer.com.

I Accident Lawyer Los Angeles

1100 S. Hope St. Ste. 103

Los Angeles, CA 90015

213-689-7777 (Local)

*This does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction regarding the outcome of your case, and results include that of independent associated counsel. In the event of a loss, you may be obligated to pay the opposing parties' fees and costs. We are not affiliated with any public agency. Nothing on this site, or any site that brought you to this one, is to constitute an inference or implication that we are the "best" (or similar word) attorneys in comparison to other firms, but rather states our opinion. In the event that you fill out any forms or request a case evaluation, this does not guarantee that you: (a) do in fact have a case (b) that we will become your legal representation (c) does not guarantee a response from one of our attorneys (d) enter into any type of relationship with the firm. It is at our discretion to call you or take you on as a client. The Accident Attorneys' Group makes no claim or representation regarding, and accepts no responsibility for, the quality, content, nature or reliability of third-party websites accessible by hyperlink from the site, or websites linking to the site. This website, postings, articles, upkeep and general online presence is controlled by a marketing team and is not necessarily the views, opinions or writings of any Attorney(s) at The Accident Attorneys' Group.

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SOURCE I Accident Lawyer

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All dollar amounts are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise indicated.

Measured and Indicated Resource Estimates are quoted Inclusive of Mineral Reserves for all

sites and projects

TORONTO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - IAMGOLD Corporation ("IAMGOLD" or "the Company") today announced its 2017 year-end mineral reserve and resource statement. (See attached table for more details.)

Total attributable Proven and Probable gold Reserves increased by 86.0% to 14.5 million ounces at the end of 2017 from 7.8 million ounces of gold at the end of 2016. The addition of 6.7 million ounces was primarily due to conversion of Resources to Reserves at the Cote Gold Project in Ontario, Canada and at the Boto Gold Project in eastern Senegal, West Africa following positive results from the Pre-feasibility Studies, coupled with the previously announced Reserve increase at the Rosebel Gold Mine. These increases were partially offset by depletion during the year given the Company's attributable gold production of 882,000 ounces. There was no change in the $1,200 per ounce gold price assumption for estimating Mineral Reserves at the Company's owned and operated mines.

Total attributable Measured and Indicated gold Resources (inclusive of Reserves) increased overall by 6% or 1.4 million ounces to 24.7 million ounces of gold at the end of 2017. Additionally, total attributable Inferred gold Resources increased overall by 44% or 2.7 million ounces to 8.8 million ounces of gold at the end of 2017. There were also no changes in the valuation assumptions for estimating mineral resources at Essakane and Rosebel ($1,500 per ounce of gold) or at Westwood ($1,200 per ounce of gold using a 6.0 g/t Au cut-off over a minimum width of 2 metres).

Steve Letwin, President and CEO of IAMGOLD, commented, "In 2017, we were able to crystallize significant gains in reserve ounces within the company, carrying on from our great work in 2016 to advance our high potential targets through both exploration successes and improved cost performance. All of our owner-operated mines reported year-on-year increases in reserves after depletion, demonstrating the strength of our core operations. Additionally, the completion of Prefeasibility Studies at Cote and Boto has allowed us to declare initial reserves for both projects, setting up IAMGOLD with a growing, long-life production profile at a time when many are struggling with reserve life. Even taking into account the sale of 30% of the large resource at Cote Gold to Sumitomo Metal Mining last June, we have demonstrated net gains in both Measured & Indicated Resources and Inferred Resources. The maiden Resource declaration for Saramacca is a strong start for Rosebel's transformation."

Mr. Letwin continued, "We are very excited about 2018 as it is setting up to be another year for significant growth in our reserve and resource base. Drilling to expand Saramacca continues and we are working to incorporate the existing and new resources into a consolidated Life-of-Mine plan for Rosebel and Saramacca which will allow us to declare an initial reserve estimate for Saramacca in the second half of this year. Drilling being carried out as part of the Cote Gold Feasibility Study will not only improve our confidence in the existing reserves, but is also expected to permit the upgrade of inferred material to a higher resource category and ultimately support conversion into reserves. The completion of the Heap Leach Prefeasibility Study for Essakane in the second quarter is expected to catalyze the declaration of new Heap Leach reserves as well as increases in our CIL reserves and resources through the justification of a further pit pushback. Essakane is also working on declaring a maiden resource estimate for the Gossey satellite deposit later this year. We will be drilling another 110 kilometres at Westwood with the ongoing objective to expand our planning reserves through conversion of inferred resources. An updated resource estimate is planned for Diakha-Siribaya in Mali, West Africa, and maiden resource estimates are being initiated in 2018 for Monster Lake and Nelligan in Quebec, Canada, and Eastern Borosi in Nicaragua."

Summaries of the changes in the Reserves and Resources estimate and 2018 development plans for each of the key assets are provided below.

Rosebel Gold Mine, Suriname: As announced on July 26, 2017, Rosebel was able declare significant increases in both Reserves and Resources, even before including the Saramacca satellite deposit. Incorporating those additions and mine depletion since that declaration date, Rosebel has realized a net, year-on-year increase in attributable Reserves of 1.4 million ounces or 69% to 3.3 million ounces, which was the result of: (i) new resource models for most of the Rosebel orebodies; (ii) positive impact of changes in the cost model for Rosebel, based on major cost improvements; (iii) a revised mine planning approach based on a detailed pit phasing scheme complemented by an optimized mine sequencing algorithm; and (iv) improved confidence in the pit slope design angles. Attributable Measured and Indicated Resources increased year-on-year by 2.9 million ounces or 51% to 8.6 million ounces due to those same factors. Inferred Resources increased from 0.6 million ounces to 2.6 million ounces year-on-year. Little definition drilling and exploration work is planned for 2018 on the Rosebel Mine concessions as the mine geology team focusses on Saramacca. Drilling done later in 2017, including in the Saddle Zones, will be incorporated into the resource models and mine designs during 2018.

Essakane Gold Mine: Essakane attributable Reserves for 2017 increased by 2%, net of depletion, to 3.1 million ounces versus the year prior, due to conversion of resource ounces at the Essakane Main Zone (EMZ) and Falagountou. Attributable Measured and Indicated Resources declined by 313,000 ounces or 7.5% to 3.8 million ounces mainly due to depletion. Attributable Inferred Resources declined by 91,000 ounces to 348,000 ounces. In the second quarter 2018, Essakane expects to complete a Prefeasibility Study on Heap Leach processing of EMZ marginal grade material. Once completed, the operation is expecting to declare additional Heap Leach Reserves, as well as to potentially add to the existing CIL Reserves for EMZ through justification of an additional pushback. Essakane also conducted exploration drilling of the Gossey satellite zone, 15 kilometers to the northwest of the Essakane processing plant, during 2016 and 2017. A maiden Resource estimate for Gossey should be completed in 2018. Exploration is ongoing on a number of other regional targets at Essakane.

Westwood Gold Mine, Canada: A net increase in Reserves of 130,000 ounces or 12% to 1.18 million ounces converted from resources, after depletion. Measured and Indicated Resources increased by 227,000 ounces or 19% to 1.4 million ounces as the 2017 delineation and valuation drilling (112 km) triggered a significant conversion from Inferred Resources, which also drove the conversion of Resources to Reserves. Inferred Resources declined by 0.4 million ounces to 1.8 million ounces as a result of the same conversion exercise. Westwood is planning a further 110 kilometres of drilling during 2018 to continue building the planning reserves through conversion of resources.

Sadiola Gold Mine, Mali: At Sadiola, there was a net decrease year-on-year in attributable Reserves of 100,000 ounces or 6% to 1.7 million ounces due to depletion. Attributable Measured and Indicated Resources were effectively unchanged at 2.9 million ounces as depletion was offset by newly identified resources and conversion of Inferred material. Inferred Resources declined by 33,000 ounces to 0.4 million ounces. No significant exploration activity is planned for Sadiola in 2018 as we continue to work to reach an agreement with the Government of Mali for the path forward for the Sadiola Sulphide Project.

Cote Gold Project, Canada: An initial Reserve of 3.84 million attributable ounces, converted from resources as an outcome of positive results from a Prefeasibility Study, was announced on June 5, 2017. Attributable Indicated and Inferred Resources at Cote are now 5.2 million ounces and 0.8 million ounces respectively. Resources are lower than the resources announced last year, primarily as a result of the sale of 30% of the IAMGOLD interest in Cote to Sumitomo Metal Mining as announced concurrently with the Prefeasibility Study results. A Feasibility Study is currently underway for the Cote Gold Project, with expected completion in the first half of 2019, at which time a construction decision will be taken. As part of the feasibility work, a drilling program has been undertaken to: (i) improve the confidence classification of the existing Reserves and Resources; (ii) convert Inferred Resources from the Prefeasibility Study for inclusion in the Feasibility Study Reserves and mine plan; (iii) further geotechnical investigation of the pit and infrastructure areas; and (iv) condemnation of infrastructure, tailings storage and mine rock dump areas. An updated Reserve and Resource declaration, incorporating the new drilling and refined cost models, will be produced as an outcome of this feasibility work.

Boto Gold Project, Senegal: The addition of 1.42 million attributable ounces of Reserves, converted from Resources as an outcome of positive results from a Prefeasibility Study, which was announced on February 12, 2018. IAMGOLD is continuing exploration of the Boto concession during 2018 with the goal of identifying additional resources to enhance the Boto project economics and mine life.

Saramacca Gold Project, Suriname. On September 5, 2017, a maiden resource was declared for the Saramacca deposit, 25 km south of the Rosebel Gold Mine. Attributable Indicated Resources were estimated to be 680,000 ounces and attributable Inferred Resources were estimated to be 344,000 ounces. Exploration and resource definition drilling continues at Saramacca, and an initial Reserve declaration is expected in the second half of 2018 upon completing development studies and an integrated Rosebel plus Saramacca mine plan and incorporating any new drilling results that are available at that time. On January 24, 2018 IAMGOLD announced that it had been granted rights to the Brokolonko exploration concession, on trend to the northwest of Saramacca and the previously optioned Sarafina exploration concession creating a new gold district. Airborne geophysics, exploration field work, and drilling will be undertaken in earnest throughout this new gold district during 2018.

Advance Exploration Projects: The Inferred Resources at the Pitangui Project in Minas Gerais, Brazil increased year-on-year by 21% to 819,000 ounces as the result of orebody extensions identified through step out drilling. Exploration at Pitangui will continue for 2018. Both Indicated and Inferred Resources at the Diakha-Siribaya Project in Mali doubled versus the prior year (to 0.1 million ounces and 1.1 million ounces respectively) with the acquisition of the 50% joint partner Merrex Gold as announced February 28, 2017. An updated resource estimate is planned later in 2018 to incorporate significant additional drilling on strike from the originally identified resource, including drilling from 2017 and 2018 on an expanded exploration concession. In past periods, IAMGOLD has announced ongoing drill results from the Monster Lake and Nelligan joint venture projects in northeastern Quebec, Canada and the Eastern Borosi joint venture project in Nicaragua. Work is underway to produce maiden resource estimates for all of these projects during 2018.

Notes to Investors Regarding the Use of Resources

Cautionary Note to Investors Concerning Estimates of Measured and Indicated Resources

This news release uses the terms "measured resources" and "indicated resources". We advise investors that while those terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") does not recognize them. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves.

Cautionary Note to Investors Concerning Estimates of Inferred Resources

This news release also uses the term "inferred resources". We advise investors that while this term is recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the SEC does not recognize it. "Inferred resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in rare cases. Investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable.

Scientific and Technical Disclosure

IAMGOLD is reporting mineral resource and reserve estimates in accordance with the CIM guidelines for the estimation, classification and reporting of resources and reserves.

Note: Mineral reserves and mineral resources for IAMGOLD's gold mines for the 2017 year-end statement were estimated using a $1,200 per ounce gold price (unless otherwise indicated in the notes in Table 1) for mineral reserves and a $1,500 per ounce price for mineral resources (unless otherwise indicated in the notes in Table 1). For open pit operations, gold resources are constrained within an economic pit shell.

Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors

The SEC limits disclosure for U.S. reporting purposes to mineral deposits that a company can economically and legally extract or produce. IAMGOLD uses certain terms in this news release, such as "measured," "indicated," or "inferred," which may not be consistent with the reserve definitions established by the SEC. U.S. investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in the IAMGOLD Annual Reports on Forms 40-F. You can review and obtain copies of these filings from the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml or by contacting the Investor Relations department.

The Canadian Securities Administrators' National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") requires mining companies to disclose reserves and resources using the subcategories of "proven" reserves, "probable" reserves, "measured" resources, "indicated" resources and "inferred" resources. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not demonstrate economic viability.

A mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of a measured or indicated mineral resource demonstrated by at least a preliminary feasibility study. This study must include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic and other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of reporting, that economic extraction can be justified. A mineral reserve includes diluting materials and allows for losses that may occur when the material is mined. A proven mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of a measured mineral resource demonstrated by at least a preliminary feasibility study. A probable mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of an indicated, and in some circumstances, a measured mineral resource demonstrated by at least a preliminary feasibility study.

A mineral resource is a concentration or occurrence of natural, solid, inorganic material, or natural, solid fossilized organic material including base and precious metals in or on the Earth's crust in such form and quantity and of such a grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a mineral resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge. A measured mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to confirm both geological and grade continuity. An indicated mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed. An inferred mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes. Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable.

A feasibility study is a comprehensive technical and economic study of the selected development option for a mineral project that includes appropriately detailed assessments of realistically assumed mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, marketing, legal, environmental, social and governmental considerations together with any other relevant operational factors and detailed financial analysis, that are necessary to demonstrate at the time of reporting that extraction is reasonably justified (economically mineable). The results of the study may reasonably serve as the basis for a final decision by a proponent or financial institution to proceed with, or finance, the development of the project. The confidence level of the study will be higher than that of a Pre-Feasibility Study.

A Pre-Feasibility Study is a comprehensive study of a range of options for the technical and economic viability of a mineral project that has advanced to a stage where a preferred mining method, in the case of underground mining, or the pit configuration, in the case of an open pit, is established and an effective method of mineral processing is determined. It includes a financial analysis based on reasonable assumptions on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, marketing, legal, environmental, social and governmental considerations and the evaluation of any other relevant factors which are sufficient for a qualified person, acting reasonably, to determine if all or part of the Mineral Resource may be classified as a Mineral Reserve.

Gold Technical Information and Qualified Person/Quality Control Notes

The mineral resource estimates contained in this news release have been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). The "Qualified Person" responsible for the supervision of the preparation and review of all resource and reserve estimates for IAMGOLD is Lise Chenard, Eng., Director, Mining Geology. Lise has worked in the mining industry for more than 35 years, mainly in operations, project development and consulting. She joined IAMGOLD in April 2013 and acquired her knowledge of the Company's operations and projects through site visits, information reviews and ongoing communication and oversight of mine site technical service teams or consultants responsible for resource and reserve modeling and estimation.

She is considered a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of NI 43-101 with respect to the mineralization being reported on. The technical information has been included herein with the consent and prior review of the above noted Qualified Person. The Qualified person has verified the data disclosed, and data underlying the information or opinions contained herein.

The information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Craig MacDougall, P.Geo., Senior Vice President, Exploration for IAMGOLD. Mr. MacDougall is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

Forward Looking Statement

This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements, other than of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding expected, estimated or planned gold production, cash costs, margin expansion, capital expenditures and exploration expenditures and statements regarding the estimation of mineral resources, exploration results, potential mineralization, potential mineral resources and mineral reserves) are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of the words "may", "will", "should", "continue", "expect", "expected", "anticipate", "estimate", "believe", "intend", "plan" or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict, that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, without limitation, failure to meet expected, estimated or planned gold production, cash costs, margin expansion, capital expenditures and exploration expenditures and failure to establish estimated mineral resources, the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, changes in world gold markets and other risks disclosed in IAMGOLD's most recent Form 40-F/Annual Information Form on file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement.

About IAMGOLD

IAMGOLD (www.iamgold.com) is a mid-tier mining company with four operating gold mines on three continents. A solid base of strategic assets in North and South America and West Africa is complemented by development and exploration projects and continued assessment of accretive acquisition opportunities. IAMGOLD is in a strong financial position with extensive management and operational expertise.

For further information please contact :

Ken Chernin, VP Investor Relations

Tel: (416) 360-4743 Mobile: (416) 388-6883

Laura Young, Director Investor Relations

Tel: (416) 933-4952 Mobile: (416) 670-3815

Martin Dumont, Investor Relations Associate

Tel: (416) 933-5783 Mobile: (647) 967-9942

IAMGOLD Corporation Toll-free: 1 888 464-9999 [email protected]

Please note:

This entire news release may be accessed via fax, e-mail, IAMGOLD's website at www.iamgold.com and through CNW Group's website at www.newswire.ca . All material information on IAMGOLD can be found at www.sedar.com or at www.sec.gov.

Si vous desirez obtenir la version francaise de ce communique, veuillez consulter le http://www.iamgold.com/French/accueil/default.aspx



Mineral Reserves and Resources of Gold Operations as of December 31, 2017(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)



MINERAL RESERVES AND RESOURCES GOLD OPERATIONS Tonnes (000s) Grade (g/t) Ounces

Contained (000s) Attributable

Contained Ounces

(000s) Rosebel(4), Suriname





(95%)

Proven Reserves 23,122 0.6 479 455

Probable Reserves 84,358 1.1 3,034 2,882 Subtotal 107,480 1.0 3,513 3,337

Measured Resources 45,561 0.7 1,059 1,006

Indicated Resources 254,010 1.0 8,036 7,634

Inferred Resources 86,471 1.0 2,704 2,569 Essakane(5), Burkina Faso





(90%)

Probable Reserves 93,126 1.1 3,390 3,051 Subtotal 93,126 1.1 3,390 3,051

Indicated Resources 113,809 1.2 4,269 3,842

Inferred Resources 9,720 1.2 386 348 Westwood(6), Canada





(100%)

Proven Reserves 998 7.9 252 252

Probable Reserves 3,770 7.6 924 924 Subtotal 4,768 7.7 1,176 1,176

Measured Resources 788 13.2 335 335

Indicated Resources 2,808 11.9 1,078 1,078

Inferred Resources 5,189 11.0 1,838 1,838 Sadiola(7), Mali





(41%)

Proven Reserves 245 2.1 17 7

Probable Reserves 69,106 1.9 4,124 1,691 Subtotal 69,352 1.9 4,140 1,698

Measured Resources 245 2.1 17 7

Indicated Resources 122,451 1.8 7,040 2,887

Inferred Resources 17,661 1.7 956 392 Cote Gold(8), Canada





(64.75%)

Probable Reserves 196,079 0.9 5,926 3,837 Subtotal 196,079 0.9 5,926 3,837

Indicated Resources 281,171 0.9 8,037 5,024

Inferred Resources 76,471 0.5 1,231 797 Saramaca(12), Suriname





(66.5%)

Indicated Resources 14,444 2.2 1,022 680

Inferred Resources 13,632 1.2 518 344 Boto Gold(9), Senegal





(100%)

Probable Reserves 26,841 1.6 1,415 1,415 Subtotal 26,841 1.6 1,415 1,415

Indicated Resources 37,408 1.6 1,922 1,922

Inferred Resources 10,981 1.7 594 594 Pitangui(10), Brazil





(100%)

Inferred Resources 5,365 4.7 819 819 Diakha-Siribaya(11), Mali





(100%)

Indicated Resources 2,102 1.9 129 129

Inferred Resources 19,816 1.7 1,092 1,092 TOTAL (13)









Proven & Probable Reserves 497,646 1.2 19,560 14,514

Measured and Indicated Resources 874,798 1.2 32,944 24,723

Inferred Resources 245,306 1.3 10,138 8,793











Notes:

(1) Measured and indicated resources are inclusive of proven and probable reserves. (2) In mining operations, measured and indicated resources that are not mineral reserves are considered uneconomic at the price used for reserve estimations but are deemed to have a reasonable prospect of economic extraction. (3) Although "measured resources", "indicated resources" and "inferred resources" are categories of mineralization that are recognized and required to be disclosed under Canadian regulations, the SEC does not recognize them. Disclosure of contained ounces is permitted under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC generally permits resources to be reported only as in place tonnage and grade. See "Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors Regarding Disclosure of Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource Estimates". (4) Rosebel mineral reserves have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,200/oz gold price and mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,500/oz gold price and have been estimated in accordance with NI 43-101. (5) Essakane mineral reserves have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,200/oz gold price and mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,500/oz gold price and have been estimated in accordance with NI 43-101. (6) Westwood mineral reserves have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,200/oz gold price and mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a 6.0 g/t Au cut-off over a minimum width of 2 metres and have been estimated in accordance with NI 43-101. (7) Mineral reserves at Sadiola have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using an average of $1,200/oz gold price and mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,400/oz gold price and have been estimated in accordance with the JORC code. (8) Cote Gold mineral reserves have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,200/oz gold price and the mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,500/oz gold price and have been estimated in accordance with NI 43-101. (9) Boto Gold mineral reserves has been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,200/oz gold price and mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,500/oz gold price and have been estimated in accordance with NI 43-101. (10) Pitangui mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using a $1,500/oz gold price and have been estimated in accordance with NI 43-101. (11) Diakha-Siribaya mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using $1,500/oz gold price and have been estimated in accordance with NI 43-101. (12) Saramacca mineral resources have been estimated as of December 31, 2017 using $1,500/oz gold price and have been estimated in accordance with NI 43-101. (13) Due to rounding, numbers presented throughout this document may not add up precisely to the totals.

The Company's reserve estimate is comprised of in-place material, i.e., contained ounces of gold and metallurgical recovery factors must be taken into account in order to assess and quantify the recoverable material.

There are numerous parameters inherent in estimating proven and probable mineral reserves, including many factors beyond the Company's control. The estimation of reserves is a subjective process, and the accuracy of any reserve estimate is a function of the quality of available data and of engineering and geological interpretation and judgment. Results from drilling, testing and production, as well as material changes in metal prices subsequent to the date of an estimate, may justify a revision of such estimates.

SOURCE IAMGOLD Corporation

Related Links

http://www.iamgold.com

All amounts are in US dollars, unless otherwise indicated.

TORONTO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - IAMGOLD Corporation ("IAMGOLD" or the "Company") today announced positive results from a Pre-feasibility Study ("PFS") for its Boto Gold Project (Project) in Senegal, West Africa. The results, which outline an economically viable project, justify the commencement of a Feasibility Study to further optimize the project development design and improve project economics.

PRE-FEASIBILITY HIGHLIGHTS

Indicated Resources of 1.9 million ounces grading 1.60 g/t Au

Proven and Probable Reserves of 1.4 million ounces grading 1.64 g/t Au

Mine Life of 13.5 years with mill throughput of 2.0 million tonnes per annum

of 13.5 years with mill throughput of 2.0 million tonnes per annum Life of Mine (LOM) average annual production of nearly 100,000 oz, with higher production in the early years of operation

LOM direct cash costs of $707 /oz and all-in sustaining costs of $829 /oz

/oz and all-in sustaining costs of /oz At $1,275 /oz gold price, after-tax Internal Rate of Return of 13.3% and a Net Present Value of $104 million (6% discount rate)

/oz gold price, after-tax Internal Rate of Return of 13.3% and a Net Present Value of (6% discount rate) Initial capital expenditures of $249 million

Steve Letwin, President and CEO of IAMGOLD, said "Boto lies on a mineralized trend that is host to several significant producing gold mines. The team has worked exceptionally hard to advance this project from the initial discovery to a potential development project with a long life and attractive all-in sustaining costs. It is important to understand that this is a work in progress, and although still short of our investment criteria typical for West Africa, the project provides excellent optionality at higher gold prices. We are continuing to aggressively optimize the project design to improve the overall economics. Importantly, the feasibility study currently underway and due for completion in the second half of 2018 uses a 25% higher mill throughput as the base case, which will accordingly increase annual gold production and has the potential for improved project returns. We continue to aggressively explore priority targets to enhance the total resource inventory, which would generate a positive impact on project economics and mine life."

The PFS was completed jointly by IAMGOLD and Lycopodium Minerals Canada Ltd., with inputs from technical studies completed by other consultants and has an effective date of December 31, 2017. The PFS represents a comprehensive study of the technical and economic viability of a mineral project that has advanced to a stage where a preferred mining method has been established and an effective method of mineral processing has been determined. IAMGOLD is using the PFS to identify the preferred development option to demonstrate economic viability of the Project, to support Mineral Reserve disclosure, and to identify additional work recommended to support the completion of a feasibility study. Technical studies to support the completion of the feasibility study have commenced, with the study scheduled for completion in the second half of 2018.

A technical report summarizing the PFS will be filed on SEDAR within 45 days of the date of this news release.



PFS HIGHLIGHTS

Project Economics and Key Parameters



Mining Capacity 18.0 Mtpa Milling Capacity 2.0 Mtpa LOM Average Annual Gold Production 95,000 oz. LOM Average Recovery Rate 89.3% Mine Life 13.5 years LOM Average Direct Cash Costs $707/oz LOM Average AISC $829/oz Average Grade 1.64 g/t Au Average LOM Strip Ratio 6.5:1 Estimated Initial Capital Expenditure (millions) $249 Gold Price Assumption used in financial analysis $1,275/oz After-tax NPV (6%) (millions) $104 After-tax IRR 13.3% Payback Period 6.0 years

USD Currency used with exchange rate of: CAD$ = US$0.7692

MINERAL RESOURCES

The Mineral Resource estimate used as the basis for the study is summarized below.

Mineral Resources  December 31, 2017 Classification Tonnes (000) Grade (g/t Au) Contained Ounces

(000) Indicated 37 408 1.60 1,922 Inferred 10 981 1.66 594

Notes: 1. CIM Definition Standards were followed for classification of Mineral Resources. 2. Mineral Resources reported at a cut-off grade of 0.42 g/t Au for oxide and 0.54 g/t Au for fresh material. 3. Mineral Resources are constrained within a pit shell estimated using long-term gold price of $1,500 per ounce, and a US$/C$ exchange rate of 1:1.30. 4. Mineral Resources are inclusive of Reserves quoted below.

MINERAL RESERVES

The tonnes, grades, and classification of the Mineral Reserves captured within the PFS mine plan are summarized below.

Mineral Reserve  December 31, 2017 Classification Tonnes (000) Grade (g/t Au) Contained Ounces (000) Proven - - - Probable 26,841 1.64 1,415 Proven & Probable 26,841 1.64 1,415







Waste within Designed Pit 175,700



Total Tonnage within Designed Pit 202,500





Notes: 1. Reserves estimated assuming open pit mining methods 2. Reserves are based on a gold price of $1,200/oz 3. Fixed process recovery of 89.3% 4. Mining costs ($/t processed): $15.00/t. Processing costs: $14.76/t. G&A (Include refining cost): $3.55.

MINING AND PROCESSING

The PFS study has identified the preferred development option to be a conventional truck and shovel open pit mining operation, and has determined an effective method of mineral processing to be a processing circuit incorporating primary crushing, grinding, gravity concentration and cyanide leaching, followed by gold recovery using carbon-in-pulp, stripping and electrowinning.

Open pit mining includes approximately 15 Mt of stripping and preproduction mining during a two year pre-production period followed by 13.5 years of production mining along with stockpile reclaim in the final years of the operation. Maximum mining rate is 18 Mt per annum. The average grade is 1.64 g/t Au and the LOM stripping ratio is 6.5:1.

FUTURE WORK

The PFS recommended the completion of a feasibility study to validate and detail the elements of the development concept set out in the PFS, and which would include additional drilling, engineering studies and environmental studies, including hydrological, hydrogeological and geotechnical analyses. The recommended feasibility study work has already been initiated and is expected to be completed in the second half of 2018, using a base case processing rate of 2.5 Mtpa versus the 2.0 Mtpa used for the prefeasibility study. In addition to the feasibility study, we continue to conduct exploration activities on the Boto exploration concession to evaluate high priority targets on trend for additional mineral resources.

QUALIFIED PERSONS

The 2017 Boto Gold PFS was prepared by IAMGOLD and Lycopodium Minerals Canada Ltd. and incorporates the work of IAMGOLD and Lycopodium Qualified Persons (QPs) (as defined under National Instrument 43-101). Lycopodium Qualified Persons are independent of IAMGOLD and have reviewed and approved this news release. IAMGOLD Qualified Persons are not independent of IAMGOLD and have reviewed and approved this news release. The affiliation and areas of responsibility for each Qualified Person involved in preparing the 2017 Boto PFS, upon which the technical report will be based, are:

Lycopodium QPs

N. Lincoln, P. Eng., Project infrastructures, permitting, investment and operational costs and economical model

R. Willis, P. Eng., Metallurgical testing and mineral processing

W. Muir P. Eng. (Knight Piesold Ltd.), Tailings and water management

G. Zurowski, P. Eng. (AGP Mining Consultants), Mine design, capital and operating costs, reserve estimate

IAMGOLD QPs

V. Blanchet, P.Eng., Data verification, and mineral resource estimate

H. Fisette, P.Eng., Site description, historical setting, drilling, sample preparation and analysis and security, data verification, and mineral resource estimate

The information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Craig MacDougall, P.Geo., Senior Vice President, Exploration for IAMGOLD. Mr. MacDougall is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

Forward-Looking Information

All Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resources estimates reported by the Company were estimated in accordance with the Canadian National Instrument 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum Definition Standards (May 10, 2014). These standards differ significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

This document contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements" are made as of the date of this document. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to:

(i) the estimated amount and grade of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves;

(ii) the PFS representing a viable development option for the Project;

(iii) estimates of the capital costs of constructing mine facilities and bringing a mine into production, of sustaining capital and the duration of financing payback periods;

(iv) the estimated amount of future production, both produced and metal recovered; and,

(v) estimates of operating costs and total costs, net cash flow, net present value and economic returns from an operating mine.

Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "envisages", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements are based on IAMGOLD's or its consultants' current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by them and information currently available to them. The most significant assumptions are set forth above, but generally these assumptions include:

(i) the presence of and continuity of metals at the Boto Gold Project at estimated grades;

(ii) the geotechnical and metallurgical characteristics of rock conforming to sampled results; including the quantities of water and the quality of the water that must be diverted or treated during mining operations;

(iii) the capacities and durability of various machinery and equipment;

(iv) the availability of personnel, machinery and equipment at estimated prices and within the estimated delivery times;

(v) currency exchange rates;

(vi) metals sales prices and exchange rate assumed;

(vii) appropriate discount rates applied to the cash flows in the economic analysis;

(viii) tax rates and royalty rates applicable to the proposed mining operation;

(ix) the availability of acceptable financing under assumed structure and costs;

* anticipated mining losses and dilution;

(xi) metallurgical performance;

(xii) reasonable contingency requirements;

(xiii) success in realizing proposed operations;

(xiv) receipt of permits and other regulatory approvals on acceptable terms; and

(xv) the fulfillment of environmental assessment commitments and arrangements with local communities.

Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. Many forward-looking statements are made assuming the correctness of other forward looking statements, such as statements of net present value and internal rates of return, which are based on most of the other forward-looking statements and assumptions herein. The cost information is also prepared using current values, but the time for incurring the costs will be in the future and it is assumed costs will remain stable over the relevant period.

By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates assumptions and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur as forecast, but specifically include, without limitation: risks relating to variations in the mineral content within the material identified as Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves from that predicted; variations in rates of recovery and extraction; the geotechnical characteristics of the rock mined or through which infrastructure is built differing from that predicted, the quantity of water that will need to be diverted or treated during mining operations being different from what is expected to be encountered during mining operations or post closure, or the rate of flow of the water being different; developments in world metals markets; risks relating to fluctuations in the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar; increases in the estimated capital and operating costs or unanticipated costs; difficulties attracting the necessary work force; increases in financing costs or adverse changes to the terms of available financing, if any; tax rates or royalties being greater than assumed; changes in development or mining plans due to changes in logistical, technical or other factors; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; risks relating to receipt of regulatory approvals; delays in stakeholder negotiations; changes in regulations applying to the development, operation, and closure of mining operations from what currently exists; the effects of competition in the markets in which IAMGOLD operates; operational and infrastructure risks and the additional risks described in IAMGOLD's Annual Information Form filed with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com ) for the year ended December 31, 2016 and in the Corporation's Annual Report Form 40-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR (available at https://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html. IAMGOLD cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive.

When relying on our forward-looking statements to make decisions with respect to IAMGOLD, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. IAMGOLD does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by IAMGOLD or on our behalf, except as required by law.

About IAMGOLD

IAMGOLD (www.iamgold.com) is a mid-tier mining company with four operating gold mines on three continents. A solid base of strategic assets in North and South America and West Africa is complemented by development and exploration projects and continued assessment of accretive acquisition opportunities. IAMGOLD is in a strong financial position with extensive management and operational expertise.

For further information please contact :

Ken Chernin, VP Investor Relations, IAMGOLD Corporation

Tel: (416) 360-4743 Mobile: (416) 388-6883

Laura Young, Director, Investor Relations, IAMGOLD Corporation

Tel: (416) 933-4952 Mobile: (416) 670-3815

Toll-free: 1-888-464-9999 [email protected]

Please note:

This entire news release may be accessed via fax, e-mail, IAMGOLD's website at www.iamgold.com and through CNW Group's website at www.newswire.ca . All material information on IAMGOLD can be found at www.sedar.com or at www.sec.gov.

Si vous desirez obtenir la version francaise de ce communique, veuillez consulter le http://www.iamgold.com/French/accueil/default.aspx.

SOURCE IAMGOLD Corporation

Related Links

http://www.iamgold.com

HOUSTON, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- ImmunoMet Therapeutics, a private biotechnology company focused on utilizing cellular metabolism to develop novel anti-tumor and immuno-oncology therapies, today announced the appointment of Vincent J. O'Neill, M.D., B.Sc., M.R.C.P., as Chief Medical Officer and Allan J. Shaw as Chief Financial Officer.

Benjamin Cowen, Chief Executive Officer of ImmunoMet, said, "I am pleased to announce the addition of these industry veterans which further strengthens the company's management team. We are enthusiastic about the extensive experience and leadership that Vince and Allan bring to the company. Their expertise will prove invaluable as we continue to advance our lead clinical program, IM156, an OXPHOS inhibitor, designed to treat drug resistant cancers and, also, as we further advance ImmunoMet's biguanide platform bringing innovative therapies to patients."

Dr. O'Neill, a medical oncologist, joins ImmunoMet with 16 years of oncology therapeutic and diagnostic product development experience at both large pharma and biotech companies. He has held senior leadership roles at global pharmaceutical companies, including Genentech, Roche, GlaxoSmithKline, and Sanofi. Most recently, he served as Chief Medical Officer at Mirna Therapeutics, where he led the design and management of Mirna's Phase 1 clinical trial of MRX34, its lead product candidate and the first microRNA therapeutic in clinical development in cancer. He also served as Chief Medical Officer at Exosome Diagnostics, where Dr. O'Neill oversaw global product development and Medical Affairs. At both Genentech and GlaxoSmithKline, he managed the clinical and biomarker development programs of several oncology therapeutic candidates. He was instrumental in the expanded approval of Genentech's Avastin and Tarceva oncology therapeutics. At GSK, he oversaw all clinical activities in the signal transduction unit and led the first IND application and clinical trial of MEK inhibitor MEKINIST. Dr. O'Neill received his M.D. and his B.Sc. in molecular pathology from the University of Glasgow. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. Dr. O'Neill is also a member of the Royal College of Physicians.

Allan L. Shaw is a four-time public company Chief Financial Officer, and his breadth of experience, including his involvement with raising $4 billion in capital, will be critical in financing and supporting ImmunoMet's evolution and growth. He currently serves as a director of VIVUS, Inc. Most recently, Mr. Shaw was the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Syndax Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Mr. Shaw was Managing Director of Alvarez & Marsal LLC, a global professional services firm, and led their biopharmaceutical consulting practice. Mr. Shaw's previous experience includes serving as the Chief Financial Officer of Serono S.A., NewLead Holdings Ltd. and Viatel, Inc. Mr. Shaw was also the founder and Senior Managing Director of Shaw Strategic Capital LLC, an international financial advisory firm, focused on providing strategic financial counsel on a wide variety of issues such as general corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, capital structuring, licensing and capital markets. Mr. Shaw received a B.S. from the State University of New York at Oswego College and is a certified public accountant in the State of New York.

About ImmunoMet Therapeutics

ImmunoMet Therapeutics is a private biotechnology company focused on utilizing cellular metabolism to develop novel anti-tumor and immuno-oncology therapies. The company, a spinoff of HanAll, a Korean biopharma company, was founded in 2015 and is headquartered at JLABS in Houston. Its lead program, IM156, an oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) inhibitor, designed to treat drug resistant cancers, is currently in clinical development. ImmunoMet's robust biguanide platform includes an immuno-oncology program, IM188, targeting immune suppressor cells to enhance the response of current immunotherapies. For more information about the company, please visit www.immunomet.com.

Contact

Joseph T. Schepers, [email protected]

SOURCE ImmunoMet Therapeutics

Related Links

http://www.immunomet.com

LISLE, Ill., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- International Truck recently honored Nashville, Tennessee based Terry Minor, chief executive officer of Cumberland International Trucks as its 2017 North American Dealer of the Year. The award recognizes top International dealers for both their commitment to provide industry-leading uptime and superlative performance in annual sales, service, and customer satisfaction.

"The North American Dealer of the Year award pays tribute to the very best of an elite group of International dealers," said Michael Cancelliere, president, Truck and Parts. "Whether it is his focus on generating sales or his dedication to provide superior customer service and support, Terry has earned the prestigious distinction as truck dealer of the year for his innovative leadership. From encouraging his team to find ways to enable fuel economy of 10 miles per gallon or more on International trucks to consistently delivering best-in-class Uptime that exceeds customer expectations, Terry has built a winning culture at Cumberland that is admired both in his local marketplace and throughout the International dealer network."

Terry Minor and the more than 180 employees of Cumberland International Trucks earned the top honor by growing both their truck and parts sales, investing in their facilities and reducing dwell time for their customers. Cumberland International was selected the 2017 Dealer of the Year among a class of 14 President's Club winners. International Truck recognized the President's Club dealers for achieving the highest level of performance in terms of operating standards, market representation, and most importantly, customer satisfaction.

"Everyone at Cumberland International Trucks is honored to receive this award because it validates our value driven culture that drives our team to surpass our customer's needs," said Terry Minor, CEO of Cumberland International Trucks. "I accept the North American Truck Dealer of the Year award on behalf of our incredibly talented team of professionalsand our loyal customers."

About Navistar

Navistar International Corporation (NYSE: NAV) is a holding company whose subsidiaries and affiliates produce International brand commercial and military trucks, proprietary diesel engines, and IC Bus brand school and commercial buses. An affiliate also provides truck and diesel engine service parts. Another affiliate offers financing services. Additional information is available at www.Navistar.com.

* All marks are trademarks of their respective owners.

Web site: www.InternationalTrucks.com

SOURCE International Truck

Related Links

https://www.internationaltrucks.com

BEIJING, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Jianpu Technology Inc. ("Jianpu," or the "Company") (NYSE:JT), a leading independent open platform for discovery and recommendation of financial products in China, today announced the appointment of Professor Xiaoyan Zhang as an independent director of the Company, effective immediately, based on the recommendations of the nominating and corporate governance committee of the board of directors of the Company (the "Board"). The Board also appointed Professor Zhang as the chairman of the compensation committee of the Board, and a member of the audit committee and the nominating and corporate governance committee of the Board.

Professor Xiaoyan Zhang is currently Assistant Dean and Xinyuan chair professor of finance at the PBC School of Finance, Tsinghua University. Professor Zhang's research focuses on financial technology, international finance, empirical asset pricing and applied econometrics. Professor Zhang served as Duke Realty chair professor of finance with tenure at the Krannert School of Management, Purdue University from 2010 to 2016. Prior to joining the Krannert faculty, Professor Zhang was assistant professor of finance at the Johnson School of Management, Cornell University from 2002 to 2010. Professor Zhang currently serves as a member of the Issuance Examination Committee of China Securities Regulatory Commission. She is also an independent director on the board of directors of Sinoma International Engineering Co., LTD. In 2017, Professor Zhang was recognized as a finance expert listed in the Recruitment Program of Global Experts, (known as "the Thousand Talents Plan"), by the PRC government. Professor Zhang received a bachelor's degree in international economics from Beijing University in 1997 and a doctor of philosophy degree in finance (with honors) from Columbia Business School in 2002.

"We are excited and honored to welcome Professor Zhang to our board," said Mr. David Ye, Co-Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Jianpu, "Professor Zhang's level of world-class expertise and stature brings distinguished recognition to Jianpu. Having a resource of her caliber as part of our team gives us a distinct advantage in capturing new opportunities in the booming Fintech industry. We look forward to working with Professor Zhang and benefiting from her insights and contributions as we further grow our business and strengthen our mission of becoming everyone's financial partner."

About Jianpu Technology Inc.

Jianpu Technology Inc. (NYSE:JT) is a leading independent open platform for discovery and recommendation of financial products in China. By leveraging its deep data insights and proprietary technology, Jianpu provides users with personalized search results and recommendations that are tailored to each user's particular financial needs and credit profile. The Company also enables financial service providers with sales and marketing solutions to reach and serve their target customers more effectively through online and mobile channels and enhance their competitiveness by providing them with tailored data, risk management and end-to-end solutions. The Company is committed to maintaining an independent open platform, which allows it to serve the needs of users and financial service providers impartially. For more information, please visit http://ir.jianpu.ai.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "confident" and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company's goal and strategies; the Company's future business development, financial condition and results of operations; the Company's expectations regarding demand for, and market acceptance of, its solutions and services; the Company's expectations regarding keeping and strengthening its relationships with users, financial service providers and other parties it collaborate with; general economic and business conditions; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company's filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

Jianpu Technology Inc.

Oscar Chen

Tel: +86 (10) 6242-7068

E-mail: [email protected]

The Piacente Group, Inc.

Ross Warner

Tel: +86 (10) 5730-6201

E-mail: [email protected]

In the United States:

The Piacente Group, Inc.

Alan Wang

Tel: +1-212-481-2050

E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE Jianpu Technology Inc.

Related Links

http://ir.jianpu.ai

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. and BOSTON, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- LakePharma, Inc., the leading US-based biologics company specializing in antibody and protein engineering, cell line development and protein production, announced today the launch of the LakePharma MicroBiomanufacturing (GMP) Center in Hopkinton, MA.

Located at 35 South Street, the newly-acquired 69,000-square foot building includes laboratory, office space and infrastructure for GMP manufacturing. LakePharma intends to develop the site to perform GMP biologics manufacturing for Phase 1 clinical trials. The increased capacity at the site will also support growth in LakePharma's assay development, bioanalytical, process development and QC services. The company plans to add approximately 100 positions at the Center by 2020.

"The new facility is ideal for LakePharma as it provides the ability to offer fully integrated contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) capabilities," said Hua Tu, LakePharma's CEO. "Hopkinton is in close proximity to Cambridge/Boston, where we have a large cluster of clients, and we believe that this facility will increase our ability to serve their product development and manufacturing needs. We will soon be able to provide our clients and partners with the end-to-end services they demand."

The LakePharma MicroBiomanufacturing Center joins the LakePharma Vector Center in Worcester, MA, the LakePharma Development Center in Hayward, CA, and the LakePharma Antibody Centers in South San Francisco, and Belmont, CA. The company will retain existing lab operations at the LakePharma Vector Center, located on the Worcester Polytech Institute campus, where it plans to double the size of its molecular biology and cell culture operations this year.

About LakePharma

LakePharma is the leading US-based biologics company specializing in antibody engineering, antibody discovery, molecular engineering, protein chemistry, bioexpression, biofunction, bioprocessing, and bioanalytics. LakePharma focuses on integrated platforms to support projects throughout the drug discovery process. LakePharma offers dedicated client services and sophisticated software to provide real-time access to project data via a secure cloud-based portal. For more information, please visit www.lakepharma.com.

PRESS CONTACT:

Brendan Doherty

[email protected]

(650) 288-4891 ext. 228

SOURCE LakePharma

Related Links

http://www.lakepharma.com

The faster bikes will enable Seattle riders to get to their destinations more quickly, but still more affordably than driving or using traditional rideshare services. The maximum speed on the bikes is 14.8 MPH and the power will automatically adjust to adapt to the users' natural pedal experience. Riders can easily climb up the 30 degree hills in Seattle.

"Lime-E will provide Seattle with a fast, efficient, equitable source of first-and-last mile transportation at no cost to the city and minimal cost to riders," said Toby Sun, co-founder and CEO of LimeBike. "We are constantly transforming and adapting our fleet to fit the needs of each market, and we're excited to offer our electric assist bikes to Seattle first."

After the first market launch in June 2017, LimeBike is currently available in 45 markets, making it the fastest-growing smart bikeshare in the U.S. This e-assist launch transitions LimeBike from a smart bikeshare company to a smart mobility solution provider.

In the coming months, LimeBike plans to roll out Lime-E beyond Seattle, including Southern California and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Lime-E usage is already proving success in pilot markets by increasing the usage of pedal bikes even further.

Images of the new Lime-E bikes can be found at this link. For more information, visit the Lime-E info page at http://www.limebike.com/electric-assist-bike.

About LimeBike

LimeBike is revolutionizing mobility in cities and campuses by empowering residents with a greener, more efficient, and affordable transportation option that also improves urban sustainability. By partnering with local key stakeholders and systematically deploying a fleet of smart-bikes that are enabled with GPS, wireless technology, and self-activating locks, LimeBike will dramatically improve urban mobility by making the first and last mile faster, cheaper, and healthier for riders. Funded by Silicon Valley's leading VC firm Andreessen Horowitz, LimeBike is based in San Mateo, CA. Learn more at limebike.com.

SOURCE LimeBike

Related Links

https://www.limebike.com

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 11, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Johnson Fistel, LLP is investigating potential violations of the federal and state securities laws by Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE: BW) ("Babcock & Wilcox") and certain of its officers. Babcock & Wilcox provides fossil and renewable power generation and environmental equipment for the power and industrial markets worldwide.

Last year, a Securities Class Action Complaint was filed on behalf of those who purchased securities of Babcock & Wilcox between June 17, 2015 and August 9, 2017. The complaint alleges that defendants made misrepresentations and failed to disclose that: (1) due to rapid growth in the Renewable segment and cost-cutting strategies, the Company lacked sufficient expertise or engineering and other resources to perform on time and within budget the Renewable contracts in its backlog, thereby rendering the backlog an improbable and unrealistic source of profitability; and (2) there were ongoing, undisclosed material problems within the Renewable segment that were exacerbated by the undisclosed diversion of limited resources. On February 9, 2018, Judge Max O. Cogburn, Jr. issued an order denying the motion to dismiss.

If you have held Babcock & Wilcox shares continuously before June 17, 2015, you may have standing to hold Babcock & Wilcox harmless from the damage the officers and directors caused by making them personally responsible. You may also be able to assist in reforming the Company's corporate governance to prevent future wrongdoing.

If you are a Babcock & Wilcox shareholder continuously holding shares before June 17, 2015, and are interested in learning more about your legal rights and remedies, please contact Jim Baker ([email protected]) at 619-814-4471. If you email, please include your phone number.

About Johnson Fistel, LLP:

Johnson Fistel, LLP is a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York and Georgia. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://www.johnsonfistel.com. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Contact:

Johnson Fistel, LLP

Jim Baker, 619-814-4471

[email protected]

SOURCE Johnson Fistel, LLP

Related Links

http://www.johnsonfistel.com

KELOWNA, BC, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Marapharm Ventures Inc. (CSE: MDM) (OTXQX: MRPHF) (FSE: 2M0) ("Marapharm" or the "Company"), an active participant in the legal cannabis industry on both sides of the Canadian and US border, commented on Canadian Securities Administrators ("CSA") Staff Notice 51-352 (Revised). Issuers with U.S Marijuana Related Activities (the "Notice")

The Notice sets out the disclosure expectations for specific risks facing issuers with marijuana-related activities in the U.S. The revised notice includes additional disclosure expectations that apply to all issuers with U.S. marijuana-related activities and reiterates the CSA's position that a disclosure-based approach remains appropriate in the current circumstances. The revised notice also reinforces the rights of individual stock exchanges to determine the eligibility of individual issuers to list based on those exchanges' listing requirements. The Canadian Securities Exchange, the Exchange on which Marapharm is listed, has repeatedly expressed support for issuers with U.S. cannabis assets.

Nevada

"Nevada marijuana sales continue to soar well above the state's projections. November's totals were $11 million more than the state projected for the month, with dispensaries selling $33.4 million in marijuana and the state bringing in more than $5.5 million in taxes in November." https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/pot-news/nevada-marijuana-sales-dip-but-exceed-november-projections/

Washington

"According to the state's marijuana data dashboard, the state has collected $280 million so far in marijuana excise taxes in fiscal 2017, which ends June 30. The earlier projections were for $272 million in this fiscal year. The excise tax is 37 percent on retail sales.

Sales of legal marijuana in Washington state have climbed to $1.2 billion in the fiscal year now drawing to a close, up from $786 million in fiscal 2016, and $259 million the year before." https://www.tre.wa.gov/portfolio-item/washington-state-marijuana-revenues-and-health/

California

"California's cannabis market is expected to soar to $5.1 billion  and it's going to be bigger than beer." http://www.businessinsider.com/california-legalizing-weed-on-january-1-market-size-revenue-2017-12

"Marapharm's management is pleased with the content of the notice and is encouraged that regulators are taking a disclosure-forward approach to what is a complex issue, especially given the differing legal status of cannabis from State to State, as well as its status as a scheduled narcotic from the Federal Governments vantage point. Marapharm feels that the US Federal Government does not intend to meaningfully alter the way that existing cannabis business is conducted within legal US jurisdictions and believe the absence of meaningful enforcement in those legal states that have opted for recreational and medical legalization is proof of this. Marapharm intends to continue to pursue opportunities that may arise in the U.S. and encourages investors to take comfort from recent developments and successes," states Linda Sampson, Marapharm's CEO.

ABOUT MARAPHARM VENTURES INC.

Marapharm is a publicly traded company investing in the medical and recreational cannabis space, since 2014. Marapharm has rapidly expanded to include having cultivation, production and dispensary locations in the key North American states of Washington, Nevada, and California, and are seeking expansion opportunities worldwide.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: facebook.com/marapharm

Twitter: twitter.com/marapharm

Web Program: marapharm.tv

STOCK EXCHANGES:

Marapharm trades in Canada, ticker symbol MDM on the CSE, in the United States, ticker symbol MRPHF on the OTCQB, and in Europe, ticker symbol 2Mo on the FSE. Marapharm also trades on other recognized platforms in Europe including Stuttgart, Tradegate, L & S, Quotnx, Dusseldorf, Munich, and Berlin.

Neither the CSE, the FSE nor the OTCQB has approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the CSE, the FSE nor the OTCQB accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

MARIJUANA INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENT:

Canadian listings (CSE) will remain in good standing as long as they provide the disclosure that is rightly required by regulators and complying with applicable licensing requirements and the regulatory framework enacted by the applicable state in which they operate.

Marapharm owns marijuana licenses in California and Nevada. Marijuana is legal in each state however marijuana remains illegal under US federal law and the approach to enforcement of US federal law against marijuana is subject to change. Shareholders and investors need to be aware that adverse enforcement actions could affect their investments and that Marapharm's ability to access private and public capital could be affected and or could not be available to support continuing operations. Marapharm's business is conducted in a manner consistent with state law and is in compliance with licensing requirements.

Copies of licenses are posted on Marapharm's website. Marapharm has internal compliance procedures in place and has compliance focused attorneys engaged in jurisdictions to monitor changes in laws for compliance with US federal and state law on an ongoing basis. These law firms inform any necessary changes to our policies and procedures for compliance in Canada and the US.

FORWARD - LOOKING STATEMENTS:

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward looking statements. The use of any of the words "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "expect", 'may", "will", "project", "should", 'believe", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward- looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward- looking statements are based on reasonable assumption but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and the forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon.

SOURCE Marapharm Ventures Inc.

Related Links

www.marapharm.com

BOYNTON BEACH, Fla., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantachrome and Anton Paar finished the purchasing process on February 9 at the Quantachrome headquarters in Boynton Beach, Florida. The companies agreed not to disclose the purchase price. Under the umbrella of the Anton Paar Group, the company will continue operations in Boynton Beach.

Friedrich Santner, CEO of the Anton Paar Group: "Quantachrome's products are a perfect addition to our product portfolio in particle characterization. Additionally, our strategic goal to have a US-based unit for research, development, and production within the Anton Paar Group has been fulfilled." Scott Lowell, former president of Quantachrome: "I am pleased that an innovative and highly valued company such as Anton Paar will carry on what we have established, developed, and produced at Quantachrome."

Quantachrome is a renowned, family-owned company with a long tradition in the analytics business. Founded in 1968, the corporation with 170 employees made a name for itself as a global leader in designing characterization instruments for the analysis of porous materials and powders. The instrumentation is used in industrial and research laboratories for the study of surfaces, density, or pore size and distribution. These physical properties are essential qualities of battery and fuel cell materials, catalysts, pharmaceutical powders, ceramics, zeolites, bio- and foam materials, or food products.

Established in 1922 in Graz, Austria, Anton Paar is the world leader in the measurement of density and concentration, the determination of dissolved CO2, and in the field of rheometry. Anton Paar's customers include most of the major beer and soft drink manufacturers worldwide as well as companies active in the food, chemicals, and pharmaceutical industries.

The corporation strives to combine high-precision manufacturing with the latest scientific achievements; the Anton Paar GmbH invests 20% of the annual turnover in research (R&D). Besides focusing on R&D, Anton Paar's growth is based on strategic acquisitions.

The Anton Paar Group (2900 employees) is active in more than 110 countries with 29 international sales subsidiaries and seven producing firms in Europe and the USA.

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

SOURCE Anton PaarCORVALLIS, Ore., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Oregon State University and the National Alliance for Hispanic Health will host the National Institutes of Health's All of Us Journey on Thursday, February 15, 2018. The traveling, hands-on exhibit raises awareness about the All of Us Research Programan ambitious effort to gather data from 1 million or more people living in the United States to accelerate research and improve health.

"We are glad the National Alliance for Hispanic Health recognizes our region as an important stop on the national tour and they are taking on a national effort to focus on the Hispanic population. If you look at most biomedical, behavioral or social science research, it doesn't involve the Hispanic population," said Javier Nieto, Dean of the College of Public Health and Human Sciences. "Most clinical trials and large population health studies do not include Hispanic participants. It is our duty to figure out how we can better their lives through science." Campus and community members are invited to come learn about the program and get information on healthy living and preventing disease. Corvallis is one stop on the All of Us Journey's 37-week national tour.

"All of Us is so important to shaping the future of health in the United States," said Dr. Jane L. Delgado, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health, the nation's leading Hispanic health advocacy group. "This research program will bring together communities throughout the United States to drive new discoveries, which may lead to earlier disease identification, more precise treatment solutions and better health outcomes for all in the future."

Who: Oregon State University and All of Us Research Program

What: Traveling exhibit

When: Thursday, February 15, from 10am to 3pm (Media suggested times 10-11:30 a.m.)

Where: Brick Mall off the NE corner of the Memorial Union; 2501 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, Oregon 97331.

Why: To provide community and campus members information on the program and precision medicine.

About the National Alliance for Hispanic Health (the Alliance)  The Alliance is the nation's foremost science-based source of information and trusted non-partisan advocate for the best health outcomes for all. The Alliance represents thousands of Hispanic health providers across the nation providing services to more than 15 million each year. For more information, visit https://www.healthyamericas.org or call the Alliance's Su Familia National Hispanic Family Health Helpline at 1-866-783-2645.

Precision Medicine Initiative, All of Us, the All of Us logo, and "The Future of Health Begins with You" are service marks of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

SOURCE National Alliance for Hispanic Health

Related Links

http://www.healthyamericas.org

Genome editing or gene editing refers to a combination of technologies that enable scientists to change an organism's DeoxyriboNucleic Acid (DNA) or genetic code to abate genetic diseases and ideally cancer. Researchers are harnessing naturally occurring mechanisms within organisms and engineering them to perform DNA manipulation by adding, removing or altering certain regions of DNA. Older techniques leveraged mechanisms that repair damaged DNA or cut specific sequences of DNA. But it is the CRISPR-Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Palindromic Repeats and C RISPR as sociated protein 9 ) technology that has brought significant improvements in cost, accuracy, speed, and overall efficacy. CRISPR tailors the mechanism in bacteria that enables the bacterial immune system to attack invading viruses. Applications for single-gene disorders such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease and hemophilia are in process while complex disorders like cancer are hopeful. Currently, most experiments are conducted on non-reproductive somatic cells in animal and other cell models. Applying to germline cells (which sperm and egg originate) has ethical concerns. The promise of eliminating a disease from a particular family, and ultimately from the human race forever appears utopian. To some this is unacceptable because scientists are "playing God." Others see a titanic risk of unforeseen negative effects on future generations, while others see this as a new era in medicine.

Speakers at 2018 NMBIST are all pioneers in the field. Dr. Parrington, Associate Professor in Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology at U. of Oxford, authored the book, "Redesigning life: How Genome Editing will transform the World". He touches upon the pros, cons and controversies of the topic. Dr. Miller, Founding Director - Center for Advanced Genome Editing at St. Judes Children's Research Hospital (SJCRH) has worked on over a thousand CRISPR-Cas9 projects and will share insights including validation strategies. Dr. Dalhman, Assistant Professor in the Georgia Tech Biomedical Engineering Department, will share how he uses the Cas9 system for drug delivery. Dr. Moorthy, Research Fellow in Jennifer Mitchell's lab at U. of Toronto, will discuss the utility of CRISPR technology in generating neural stem cells. Dr. Mateos-Moreno, a Research Scientist at Yale University will present on optimization of CRISPR technology using zebrafish. Dr. Mali, Assistant Professor in the Department of Bioengineering and rising star at UCSD, will discuss tools and therapeutic strategies via genome engineering. Dr. Wiedenheft, Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Montana State University, will elucidate the mechanisms around CRISPR RNA-guided adaptive immunity in viruses. Dr. Staskawicz, Director of Agricultural Genomics at UC Berkeley, will discuss how genome editing will enable engineering of durable resistance in agronomic crops. Dr. Trujillo, Postdoctoral Assistant in Dr. Nevin Young's lab at U. Minnesota, will discuss genome-editing methods to characterize unique peptide families in plants. Dr. Gurumurthy, Associate Professor of Developmental Neuroscience and Director of the Mouse Genome Engineering Core at U. Nebraska, is the co-developer of many CRISPR based techniques and will share his work. Our industry speaker Dr. Ryan, Senior R&D Scientist at Agilent Research Labs, will discuss application-driven genome editing projects. Dr. Pattanayak MD/PhD, from Massachusetts General Hospital Pathology department and instructor in Pathology at Harvard Medical School, will discuss the "Safe Gene" program focused on eliminating off-target gene editing effects to produce safer therapeutics.

This year the student primer on genome editing will be conducted by Dr. Cripps, Professor, Principal Investigator, and Director of the Post-baccalaureate Research and Education Program (PREP) at the University of New Mexico.

New for this year is a career development seminar for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students to provide guidance and career advice while in school or if graduated. Dr. Cripps, described above will discuss careers in academia. Dr. Romero, Chief Operating Officer, VP for Research and Economic Development, and Professor of Physics from New Mexico Tech will discuss ideas for choosing to work in academia or industry. Dr. Miller, described above, will discuss her experiences in industry, academia and at a research hospital. Mr. Budge, Sr. Recruiter at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) will discuss his career path and what kind of students and skill-sets LANL is looking for. Dr. Ryan, described above will discuss his non-linear career-path to biology. All five of our distinguished speakers will close the session with a Q&A panel for the students to probe deeper questions.

The goal of the conference is to provide a world-class educational event to the southwest region at the intersection of bioscience, genomics and bioinformatics. The event also offers students the opportunity to present their research at a poster session (and receive free admission) and compete for a student speaking-slot in the plenary session (where winners receive free lodging).

Major funding is provided by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the NIH under grant number P20GM103451. Other benefactors include Synthego and LANL.

About NM-INBRE: Champions biomedical and community based research excellence in the state of New Mexico through the development of innovative, supportive and sustainable research environments for faculty and students, community engaging health initiatives, while building a network of lead scientists and educators at the state, regional and national level. For more information, please visit www.nminbre.org.

About NCGR: NCGR is a nonprofit research institute that applies bioinformatics, software engineering and next-generation sequencing to solve the preeminent challenges of 21st century biology through collaborative research and services. To learn more, please visit www.ncgr.org.

SOURCE NCGR

Related Links

http://ncgr.org

WORCESTER, Mass., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- NeighborhoodScout, a web-based platform from Location, Inc. that includes custom analytics and reports for investing, appraising, and financing real estate, released its highly-anticipated annual list of the Top 100 Safest U.S. Cities for 2018.

The Safest Cities list compares the safety of cities with 25,000 or more people nationwide, based on the number of crimes reported and the population of each city.

Number of Cities Per State on the NeighborhoodScout Top 100 Safest Cities in the U.S. - 2018 List

"We continue to see bedroom communities, which are within large metro areas and near major urban centers like Boston, Chicago, and New York, make the top of our list," said Dr. Andrew Schiller, CEO and founder of Location, Inc. and NeighborhoodScout. "These safe communities within the urban/suburban fabric of America's largest metropolitan areas often combine access to high-paying jobs in the urban center, decent schools, and a high quality of life. This access to opportunity increases home values, with the result often being lower crime."

For example, Ridgefield, CT is a low-crime, high-opportunity haven. The community's proximity to New York, Stamford, Danbury and other business and financial hubs, via car or public transit, make Ridgefield appealing to professionals. Families also appreciate Ridgefield's combination of top public schools, low crime rates, and owner-occupied single-family homes.

These location "must-haves" appear repeatedly among states with the largest number of cities making the list, including Massachusetts and Illinois. Residents of Harrison, NY, Huntley, IL, and list newcomer Wakefield, MA enjoy quiet pockets in metropolitan America, with close access to New York, Chicago, and Boston, respectively.

States with the Highest Number of Cities on the NeighborhoodScout Top 100 Safest Cities in the U.S.  2018 List 2018 Rank State # of Cities in on the List #5 New Jersey 5 #4 Connecticut, Texas (tie) 6, 6 #3 California 10 #2 Illinois 18 #1 Massachusetts 19

While NeighborhoodScout's list of the Top 100 Most Dangerous Cities in the U.S. comprises violent crimes, the Safest Cities list comprises both violent and property crimes. The reason for this distinction: The general public tends to equate a "dangerous" city with "violent" crime (armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, homicide), while a "safe" city means safety from both property crime (burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft) and violence.

The Safest Cities list results are based on the number of crimes reported and the population of each city, divided by 1,000 to make crime rates comparable across all cities. By providing a rate for crime per 1,000 residents, only NeighborhoodScout offers an accurate, normalized comparison of cities of different sizes.

NeighborhoodScout's analysis of annual crime rates by city is the most comprehensive available because it factors in all reported crimes from all 18,000 local law enforcement agencies across the country. This is important because many cities are served by more than one agency (municipal police, county sheriff, transit police, etc.).

Visit NeighborhoodScout's Top 100 Safest Cities in the U.S. - 2018 to see the entire list and report. Visit NeighborhoodScout.com for subscription options, or contact [email protected] for more information.

About Location, Inc.

Location, Inc. is a leader in geographic data sciences, providing street-and address-level location intelligence and predictive analytics for businesses across the U.S. and Canada via web-based reports and streaming data. Since 2000, the company has amassed highly accurate and comprehensive catalogue of spatial data products, with complete, national coverage and sub-ZIP Code granularity. A pioneer in building micro-spatial data products, Location, Inc. specializes in real estate market insights and projections, and crime and hazard risk products for the real estate, insurance and finance sectors. More than 70 million people and businesses have leveraged the company's data products to make informed location decisions, fuel major investments, mitigate risk, protect assets, and uncover opportunity. For more information, visit www.locationinc.com.

Media Contact:

Kate DeVagno

Marketing Department

Location, Inc.

Tel: (508) 753-8029

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Location, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.locationinc.com/

OXFORD, Miss., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Next Gear Solutions, developer of DASH, the market-leading restoration management software, has completed the acquisition of Moisture Mapper International. With this acquisition, Moisture Mapper joins DASH, MICA, DryTrack and Luxor CRM in the Next Gear Solutions product suite, reaffirming the NGS commitment to the property restoration space. By combining the technologies of DryTrack, MICA and Moisture Mapper, Next Gear Solutions will accelerate its services to leading property insurance carriers and its 4,000+ restoration contractors. This acquisition also brings John North, president of Moisture Mapper, and his entire team to the growing Next Gear family.

"Next Gear Solutions is all about simplifying the lives of contractors. Restoration contractors are being asked to shoulder more of the administrative burden in the claim process and are expected to do it from the job site," said Garret Gray, CEO of Next Gear Solutions. "The future we envision is one of tighter integration across applications and less double-entry leading to more efficient workflows and a better experience for all involved in a claim."

"I am very excited to join the Next Gear team and consolidate our efforts toward the best-in-class field documentation product," said John North, Next Gear's new vice president of network development. "I am confident that putting these teams and these products together under one umbrella will change the mitigation industry for the better."

In addition, Next Gear announces the hiring of Jesse Herrera to lead the company's newly formed Insurance Carrier Business Unit. Jesse joins Next Gear from Serent Capital, where he was a member of the Growth Team Strategic Operations Group. Prior to Serent, Jesse was EVP at Mitchell International and he brings over a decade of experience in the insurance market to Next Gear.

This is Next Gear's fourth acquisition in the past two years. Next Gear acquired ClientRunner in July 2016, Luxor CRM in December 2016 and MICA Software in July 2017.

About Next Gear Solutions

Next Gear Solutions, based in Oxford, Mississippi, was formed in 2008 with a mission to take restoration companies paperless, automate their workflow and bring efficiency to the entire business operation. Since 2009, Next Gear's software suite has grown to include solutions for managed repair networks, franchisors and other insurance solutions. Next Gear is the leading technology solution for the restoration contractor space with the largest footprint of best-in-class restoration contractors in five countries.

About Moisture Mapper

Moisture Mapper was founded in 2005 by a group of professionals that recognized a need in the property insurance industry for a common platform that could effectively document and communicate all aspects of the water mitigation "process" on both residential and commercial properties. As Moisture Mapper gained traction in the restoration industry, in addition to providing ease of use for contractor documentation, the business focus has grown dramatically for the data analysis tools insurers and Managed Repair Programs sought to minimize open file time and quickly pay and close claims.

Media Contact:

Sarah Barnes

Email: [email protected]

Related Images

next-gear-solutions-has-acquired.png

Next Gear Solutions has acquired Moisture Mapper International

next-gear-solutions.png

Next Gear Solutions

The Leading Provider of Restoration Mobile Management Software

moisture-mapper-international.png

Moisture Mapper International

Now a Next Gear Solutions company

Related Links

Next Gear Solutions

Moisture Mapper

SOURCE Next Gear SolutionsNextEra Energy, Inc.

NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) is a leading clean energy company with consolidated revenues of approximately $17.2 billion, operates approximately 46,790 megawatts of net generating capacity and employs approximately 14,000 people in 33 states and Canada as of year-end 2017. Headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida, NextEra Energy's principal subsidiaries are Florida Power & Light Company, which serves approximately 5 million customer accounts in Florida and is one of the largest rate-regulated electric utilities in the United States, and NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world's largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun. Through its subsidiaries, NextEra Energy generates clean, emissions-free electricity from eight commercial nuclear power units in Florida, New Hampshire, Iowa and Wisconsin. A Fortune 200 company and included in the S&P 100 index, NextEra Energy has been recognized often by third parties for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity, and has been ranked No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry in Fortune's 2018 list of "World's Most Admired Companies." For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: www.NextEraEnergy.com, www.FPL.com, www.NextEraEnergyResources.com.

NextEra Energy Partners, LP

NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE: NEP) is a growth-oriented limited partnership formed by NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE). NextEra Energy Partners acquires, manages and owns contracted clean energy projects with stable, long-term cash flows. Headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida, NextEra Energy Partners owns interests in wind and solar projects in North America, as well as natural gas infrastructure assets in Texas. The renewable energy projects are fully contracted, use industry-leading technology and are located in regions that are favorable for generating energy from the wind and sun. The seven natural gas pipelines in the portfolio are all strategically located, serving power producers and municipalities in South Texas, processing plants and producers in the Eagle Ford Shale, and commercial and industrial customers in the Houston area. The NET Mexico Pipeline, the largest pipeline in the portfolio, provides a critical source of natural gas transportation for low-cost, U.S.-sourced shale gas to Mexico. For more information about NextEra Energy Partners, please visit: www.NextEraEnergyPartners.com.

SOURCE NextEra Energy, Inc.; NextEra Energy Partners, LP

Related Links

http://www.nexteraenergy.com

OPELOUSAS, La., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Fans asked and Tony Chachere's delivered! You can now have meals without the salt, but full of Tony's flavor. That's exactly what you get with this new recipe from Tony Chachere's Famous Creole Cuisine featuring its brand-new No Salt Seasoning Blend. It has no salt and no salt substitutes. The seemingly indulgent, yet healthy, chicken pasta is full of sweet and tangy flavor and easy to make. Your family will love this fresh, spicy meal for lunch or dinner.JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- One Call, a growing healthcare network management company and the nation's leading provider of specialized solutions to the workers' compensation industry, celebrated its new signage atop the Eight Forty One building in Downtown Jacksonville by hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

"One Call has a great success story that demonstrates the business-friendly environment we work hard to foster here in Jacksonville," said Mayor Lenny Curry. "They grew from multiple companies  many of which started here on the First Coast  and quickly became a top innovator in the nation's workers' compensation industry. One Call could have chosen to expand anywhere, but they chose to further their investment right here at home."

Also speaking at the event was Congressman John Rutherford of Jacksonville; Florida Chief Financial Officer, Jimmy Patronis; and CEO of One Call, Dale Wolf.

"Congratulations to One Call and its dedicated employees for the continued growth and investment in Northeast Florida," said Rutherford. "Their work is a testament to the capability of our local workforce and our pro-job climate on the First Coast. It is an honor to represent so many of their hard-working employees and join in celebrating their continued commitment to Jacksonville."

"Florida is the nation's leader in developing cutting-edge solutions to resolve the most complex and challenging issues facing businesses," said Patronis. "One Call is the perfect example of using innovation to solve problems."

The installation of One Call's logo, measuring 16 feet tall and 80 feet long, was completed two weeks ago on January 23. To complement the new exterior, IP Capital Partners, the owner of the Eight Forty One building, is making numerous tenant improvements. These extensive renovations continue to make the Eight Forty One building premier Class A office space in Downtown Jacksonville and mark the building's third major renovation since its debut 63 years ago.

One Call is consolidating its two Jacksonville locations and moving approximately 500 employees to the Eight Forty One building. The consolidation is expected to be completed this fall and will make One Call one of Downtown's largest employers with almost 1,500 employees.

"This milestone signifies our continued commitment to the City of Jacksonville," stated Wolf. "We are excited to bring all of our Jacksonville-based employees under one roof and look forward to expanding our involvement in the community as one of the city's largest employers."

ABOUT ONE CALL

One Call is a growing healthcare network management company and the nation's leading provider of specialized solutions to the workers' compensation industry. We are passionate innovators providing comprehensive workers' compensation solutions that deliver more efficient and cost-effective claims resolution through an expansive network of high quality providers. One Call has locations throughout the United States and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. For more information, visit www.onecallcm.com or follow One Call on Twitter @onecallcm.

Media Contact: Jessica Taft

One Call, Director of Corporate Marketing and Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE One Call

Related Links

http://www.onecallcm.com

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Optima Curis Inc., a Los Angeles based healthcare solutions company, announced the first glimpse of its game-changing perpetual patient engagement solution, delivering a unique, targeted approach to patient-centered care.

According to Paul Viskovich, Healthcare IT pioneer, President, and CEO, "This unique enterprise-class patient engagement platform, sets forth an entirely new ethos to the healthcare realm, more akin to Linkedin and Slack and other new world applications. Based on decades of expertise in healthcare we have built a comprehensive perpetual patient engagement and health social networking platform, providing a truly patient-centered approach. With the patient at the core, Optima Curis seamlessly integrates social media functionality with engagement, collaboration and survey tools providing patients, physicians and payers limitless opportunities for improved healthcare. We believe our patient-centered approach positively impacts all stakeholders in the transformation to value-based healthcare, globally."

Optima Curis  Perpetual Engagement Platform (PEP) creates an entirely new category in patient engagement and healthcare IT, based on the unique underlying platform. Optima Curis intelligently combines Digital Patient Engagement, Social Networking, Remote Patient Monitoring and the best collaboration and interoperability tools to transform how providers, patients, and their family circle engage, collaborate, and interact.

"At V3, we are continually assessing and searching for uniqueness and the companies that can move the pointer in this traditionally stubborn healthcare IT environment. Optima Curis delivers on these requirements. The perpetual social health aspect of their unique platform sets forth an entirely new set of exciting opportunities for all stakeholders in healthcare. The entire market touts' patient-centered applications, but Optima Curis has delivered by seamlessly integration social circles and by default delivered care coordination in conjunction with the dawn of a new type of personal electronic medical record. This first iteration opens the door to a myriad of new possibilities," stated by Dr. Paul a Markham, Chief Strategy Officer at V3.

SOURCE Optima Curis Inc.LONDON and NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Pierre Ferragu will join New Street Research in April, from Sanford C. Bernstein & Co, where he has been covering technology infrastructure stocks in Europe, the U.S., and Asia. Pierre has been consistently recognized as a leader in the technology infrastructure sector, claiming the #1 ranking in the most recent Institutional Investor survey for Technology Hardware in Europe, and the #2 ranking for Data Networking in the US.

Pierre's coverage has encompassed smartphone manufacturers, semiconductor and semiconductor capital equipment manufacturers, data networking and telecom equipment vendors, and prominent cybersecurity players.

Pierre's research has focused on the themes that have been reshaping the technology infrastructure landscape over the last decade, including the smartphone revolution, the evolution of leading edge semiconductor manufacturing, the future of processor architectures, the role of power semiconductors in electrification, and most recently the impact of Artificial Intelligence on technology infrastructure.

"We recognized in Pierre an opportunity to bring our clients something unique: coverage of the entire technology infrastructure landscape globally, by a single, integrated team. The traditional sell-side, with its siloed coverage model, faces a stiff challenge in understanding and writing about big themes, like artificial intelligence, automation and virtualization, that cut across multiple subsectors," said Jonathan Chaplin, a founding partner of New Street's U.S. business.

"Pierre has a fantastic mind; he is uncommonly well positioned to lead a team to cover these sectors holistically, and our platform gives Pierre the scope and the resources to do it properly. We are delighted to have him join our leadership team," said Iain Johnston, who founded New Street in London.

"So much of the value we bring to our clients stems from the debate and the exchange of ideas between a group of partners with different perspectives and expertise, all focused on a common sector globally. Pierre will enrich those debates, while expanding our reach to adjacent sectors that are impacted by common themes," said James Ratzer, a founding partner at New Street in London.

With the addition of its Technology Infrastructure practice, New Street Research is the premiere independent research boutique focused on the Telecommunications and Technology sectors globally. We plan to develop a unique approach to covering Technology Infrastructure: a single team producing an integrated global research product, covering companies and themes across all technology infrastructure, horizontally from the data centre to "things" at the edge; and vertically from semiconductor capital equipment to infrastructure equipment and devices.

Prior to Bernstein, Pierre was a Principal at the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in Paris and London, where he led engagements for the firm's TMT practice. Prior to BCG, Pierre worked in the telecom industry in Sweden. He earned a degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences from Centrale-Supelec and a PhD qualifying degree in Sociology from Sciences Po, Paris.

For more information contact:



Jonathan Chaplin

+1 212 921 9876

[email protected]

SOURCE New Street Research

Related Links

http://www.newstreetresearch.com

Louis Wolfson III, one of Pinnacle's partners, saw an opportunity to help Puerto Rico by offering its 186-unit Pinnacle View affordable housing development in Miami's Wynwood neighborhood as a canvas for a community art project. "We felt a strong urge to help. Because Pinnacle is devoted to providing quality affordable housing infused with public art, doing a mural to honor Puerto Rico offered great synergy," Wolfson said.

Wolfson sought the help of three community organizations: Moving the Lives of Kids, which focuses on transformative art, development and education programs for youth; ACT 2, which is involved in rehabilitation, sustainability, and development of communities in adverse situations; and the Mission Continues, which empowers veterans to find new purpose by deploying them on missions in their own communities. Members of these agencies had already been working alongside other volunteer groups in Puerto Rico, supporting efforts to clear roadways, remove debris, deliver medical supplies and transport critical resources in the island's most remote areas. With this community support, the "Puerto Rico Hope Mural" was born.

The team secured contributions from internationally-renowned artists, including: Lebo, Eric Karbeling, Aladdin, Kyle Holbrook, Ivo Art, Amuse126, Kareem, BlackBrain, Zulu Painter, Magdalena, Marcella Suarez, Miariana Villanueva, Tyler Kay, Enuf, Epic Skywalker and Artworld187. "The outpouring of community support as well as the donation of talent has been tremendous," Wolfson noted, "in addition to activating help for Puerto Rico, the mural has become a source of community pride and the latest Miami 'must-see' attraction."

About Pinnacle Housing Group, LLC

Established in 1997, Miami-based Pinnacle Housing Group is a full-service real estate development company that develops, builds, leases and owns affordably-priced and luxury-styled apartment homes. With a development portfolio surpassing 8,000 units concentrated in Florida, Mississippi and Texas, the Pinnacle family of developers has grown into one of the most successful developers of quality rental housing in the United States.

For more information on the Puerto Rico Hope Mural, contact German DuBois at [email protected].

SOURCE Pinnacle Housing Group

Related Links

http://www.pinnaclehousing.com

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Platinum Storage Group announced today that the firm has obtained approvals to develop Brentwood Self Storage, an 828-unit, 120,000-square-foot self-storage facility in Brentwood, Tennessee. Construction is slated to begin March 2018.

"We are pleased to be developing the Brentwood Self Storage facility and to be adding a Class 'A' institutional quality facility to our growing portfolio," said Daniel "Skip" Elefante, chief executive officer of Platinum Storage Group. "The development is located in a premier infill market that is currently underserved, positioning the development for strong future growth."

Situated on 2.8 acres of land, the development is located at the intersection of Old Hickory Boulevard and Cloverland Drive, in the heart of Brentwood, TN. Storage Direct Brentwood will feature climate-controlled units, 24/7 surveillance, automatic door locks, individually alarmed units, electronic secured floor access, and WiFi throughout the facility.

"The Brentwood market boasts ideal self-storage fundamentals and aligns with our strategy of adding properties to our portfolio in areas that we want to be in for the long run," added Elefante. "There has been very little supply added to the area since 2007, so we are poised to make a strong entrance to the market. In addition to the lack of supply, the market has a low vacancy rate and commands strong rents, both factors that align with our strict investment criteria."

About Platinum Storage Group

Platinum Storage Group is a privately held commercial real estate company headquartered in Orange County, California. Established in 1999, Platinum Storage Group focuses on owning and operating self-storage properties throughout eight states nationwide. The company operates a scalable platform that allows it to acquire and develop properties for its own account as well as deliver turnkey property management solutions to third party owners.

Contacts

Lauren Burgos

Spotlight Marketing Communications

949.427.5172 ext. 704

[email protected]

SOURCE Platinum Storage GroupHOUSTON, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Quanta Services, Inc. (Quanta) (NYSE: PWR) announced today that Duke Austin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quanta Services, will ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange this morning at 9:30 a.m. EST, marking the company's 20th anniversary of trading on the prestigious exchange.

"Quanta was founded 20 years ago recognizing that our nation's energy infrastructure needed significant upgrade, expansion and modernization and that a national specialty contractor like Quanta would play an essential role in meeting that need. Since its initial public offering in February 1998, Quanta has grown more than sixty-fold, become one of North America's leading electric power, oil and gas and communications infrastructure solutions providers and expanded into select international markets," said Duke Austin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quanta Services. "There is strong demand for our construction-led solutions, and we believe that will continue as electric utilities invest in infrastructure modernization to improve reliability, as pipeline and related energy infrastructure is developed to harvest and move abundant hydrocarbon resources, and as communications infrastructure investment increases to meet demand for bandwidth and speed-intensive services. Quanta's achievements have been made possible by its 33,000 employees, who are the best in the business. We believe Quanta's future is bright and we look forward to many years of continued success."

Members of Quanta's management and board of directors will join Mr. Austin as he rings the opening bell. A live stream of The Bell can be viewed at https://www.nyse.com/bell and on various financial and other news outlets. Connect with Quanta IR and Quanta Services through Twitter: @QuantaIR and @Quanta-Services, Facebook: @QuantaServicsIR and on LinkedIn. Connect with the New York Stock Exchange on Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter and Instragram @NYSE.

About Quanta Services

Quanta Services is a leading specialized contracting services company, delivering infrastructure solutions for the electric power, oil and gas and communications industries. Quanta's comprehensive services include designing, installing, repairing and maintaining energy and communications infrastructure. With operations throughout the United States, Canada and Australia and in select other international markets, Quanta has the manpower, resources and expertise to safely complete projects that are local, regional, national or international in scope. For more information, visit www.quantaservices.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release (and any oral statements regarding the subject matter of this press release) contains forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the "safe harbor" from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, expectations regarding Quanta's business or financial outlook; growth, trends or opportunities in particular markets; the development of larger electric transmission. oil and natural gas pipeline, and communications infrastructure projects; the level of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids prices and their impact on Quanta's business or the demand for Quanta's services; the business plans or financial condition of Quanta's customers; Quanta's plans and strategies; the current economic and regulatory conditions and trends in the industries Quanta serves; as well as statements reflecting expectations, intentions, assumptions or beliefs about future events and other statements that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Although Quanta's management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. These statements can be affected by inaccurate assumptions and by known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict or beyond Quanta's control, including, among others, the effects of industry, economic, financial or political conditions outside of the control of Quanta; trends and growth opportunities in relevant markets; the ability to attract and the potential shortage of skilled labor; the ability to generate internal growth; competition in Quanta's business, including the ability to effectively compete for new projects and market share; the future development of natural resources; adverse changes in economic conditions and trends in relevant markets; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in Quanta's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2016, Quanta's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended Mar. 31, 2017, June 30, 2017 and Sep. 30, 2017 and any other documents that Quanta files with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). For a discussion of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, investors are advised to refer to Quanta's documents filed with the SEC that are available through the company's website at www.quantaservices.com or through the SEC's Electronic Data Gathering and Analysis Retrieval System (EDGAR) at www.sec.gov. Should one or more of these risks materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are current only as of this date. Quanta does not undertake and expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Quanta further expressly disclaims any written or oral statements made by any third party regarding the subject matter of this press release.

Investors - Kip Rupp, CFA Media - Deborah Buks and Molly LeCronier Quanta Services, Inc. Ward Creative Communications 713-341-7260 713-869-0707

SOURCE Quanta Services, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.quantaservices.com

NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Rabbi Marc Schneier, president of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding (FFEU) and founding Rabbi of The Hampton Synagogue, will lead the first-ever Synagogue mission to Bahrain on February 25th. The Congregation, located in New York's Westhampton Beach, was invited late last year by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain as part of his desire to forge better relations between Muslims and Jews. The trip marks the first ever Jewish Congregational mission to an Arab Gulf State. Bahrain is the only Gulf nation with a Jewish Community and synagogue.

The eight-day trip will begin in Bahrain where participants will meet with high-level government officials and local Jewish leaders. From there, participants will then spend the Purim holiday in Jerusalem before returning to New York.

This historic invitation comes as a result of Rabbi Schneier's close relationship with King Hamad, developed over the years through the rabbi's work with the FFEU, where he has been a trailblazer in the field of Muslim-Jewish relations. In 2011, Schneier became the first rabbi to be hosted by King Hamad at the royal palace in Manama.

"On one of my many visits to Bahrain to meet with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the royal family, I was invited several times to bring my community to Bahrain for them to see and experience the kingdom's dedication to its own Jewish community and interreligious dialogue and cooperation," said Rabbi Marc Schneier. "Since my beginning to work with the king in 2011, he has made his commitment clear towards building relations with Israel. My hope is that this mission will inspire other congregations to visit Bahrain and its Jewish community on their way to Israel."

"We are on the cusp of achieving peace between Israel and its Gulf neighbors. My hope is that this mission will remind us that as the children of Abraham, Muslims and Jews share a common faith and a common fate."

Founded in 1989, the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding is the global address for Muslim-Jewish Relations and the national address for African American-Jewish relations. The organization is committed to the belief that direct dialogue between ethnic communities is the most effective path towards reconciliation.

Contact: Ariella Steinreich

Steinreich Communications

(212) 491-1600

[email protected]

SOURCE Foundation for Ethnic Understanding (FFEU)SAN MATEO, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Rakuten Marketing, a leading technology company that that enables brands to increase sales through data-driven performance marketing, today announced Dr. Neal Richter, Chief Technology Officer, has been named a winner of an esteemed IAB Tech Lab Service Excellence Award for his significant contributions in developing trustworthy supply chain specifications and OpenRTB (open real-time bidding) 3.0  a new revision of the core protocol powering the automated buying and selling of online ads. Simultaneously, the IAB Tech Lab recognized Dr. Richter for his executive thought leadership and expertise, and industry participation driving rapid industry adoption of the organization's ads.txt initiative and guidance in the development of ads.cert. Together, they promote and improve programmatic advertising transparency industry-wide and decrease publisher fraud by helping publishers inform buyers about which companies are authorized to sell their digital inventory. Dr. Richter received the award at this weekend's IAB Annual Leadership Meeting in Palm Desert, CA.

The awards recognize the top industry leaders demonstrating innovation and success in data science and technology. The IAB Tech Lab judged finalists based on their professional excellence, forward-thinking capabilities, and marked industry and organizational influence.

"We applaud Dr. Richter for his outstanding industry achievements and contributions," said Dennis Buchheim, Senior Vice President and General Manager, IAB Tech Lab. "The IAB Tech Lab Service Excellence Awards recognize leaders who are paving the future of the digital ad industry, enabling publishers and brand marketers to positively impact consumers in their increasingly complex online experiences."

As the CTO of Rakuten Marketing, Dr. Richter leads the company's global technology organization and the innovative solutions used to optimize Rakuten Marketing business needs. This includes applying data science and scalable systems to create advanced software products for Rakuten Marketing clients. Neal has over 20 years of software experience and executive leadership expertise, leading tech teams to create data-driven products that drive bottom-line success. Prior to joining Rakuten Marketing, Dr. Richter worked for the Rubicon Project as CTO and Chief Scientist where he helped pioneer programmatic supply platforms and RTB bidding. Neal also worked as a data science lead for RightNow Technologies and was an early innovator of CRM systems where his team used AI/ML technology to optimize customer experiences for global 2000 companies.

"I am extremely honored to be recognized by the IAB and the Tech Lab," stated Neal. "The Tech Lab is an amazing group of passionate technologists across the industry that solve problems together and evolve digital advertising to be highly personalized, relevant and creative for consumers. We are in a critical period where innovation in technology is accelerating, AI is changing how we solve problems, and our work with the IAB Tech Lab centers on staying ahead."

The IAB Technology Laboratory is an independent, international, research and development consortium charged with producing and helping companies implement global industry technical standards with the goal of reducing friction associated with the digital advertising and marketing supply chain, while contributing to the safe and secure growth of the industry. Neal serves as co-Chair of the IAB TechLab's OpenRTB protocol that standardized the process of RTB, Deal-ID, Native Ads format, and the ads.txt and ads.cert standards.

About Rakuten Marketing

Rakuten Marketing industry leading solutions empower marketers to thrive in their evolved role and achieve the full potential of digital marketing, efficiently and effectively, with data-informed insights that create consistent, engaging and influential experiences across screens. Offering an integrated solution, along with unique insights and consultative partnerships, Rakuten Marketing delivers the tools that marketers need to increase efficiency, productivity and performance.

Rakuten Marketing is a division of Rakuten Inc. (4755: TOKYO), one of the world's leading Internet service companies. The company is headquartered in San Mateo, California, with offices in Australia, Brazil, Japan, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and throughout the United States. Follow us on Twitter or learn more at https://rakutenmarketing.com.

Press Contact

Lisa Tadje

Sr. Communications Director

Rakuten Marketing

[email protected]

SOURCE Rakuten Marketing

Related Links

http://marketing.rakuten.com

MADISON, N.C., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Remington Outdoor Company ("Remington" or "the Company") today announced that it has reached a Restructuring Support Agreement ("RSA") with creditors holding a majority of the FGI Operating Company, LLC ("FGI OpCo") Term Loans due in 2019 and 7.875% Senior Secured Notes due in 2020 (the "Third Lien Notes") (collectively, the "Consenting Creditors"). The RSA provides for the reduction of approximately $700 million of Remington's consolidated outstanding indebtedness and the contribution of $145 million of new capital into Remington's operating subsidiaries, markedly strengthening the Company's consolidated liquidity, balance sheet, and long-term competitiveness.

The RSA, subject to certain conditions, represents the commitment of the Company and Consenting Creditors to support a comprehensive restructuring of Remington's existing funded indebtedness. The balance sheet restructuring will be effectuated through a pre-packaged joint plan of reorganization to be filed in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware in connection with the Company's filing of voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code.

Remington's business operations will continue to operate in the normal course and will not be disrupted by the restructuring process. Payments to trade partners, employee wages and other benefits, support for customers, and an ongoing high level of service to consumers will continue without interruption.

Executive Chairman of Remington, Jim Geisler, commented, "Since its founding over 200 years ago, Remington has been a uniquely American company and brand. Our longevity is owed to generations of loyal customers and hard-working employees who met challenges and delivered results. Difficult industry conditions make today's agreement prudent. I am confident this regrouping ensures that Remington will continue as both a strong company and an indelible part of our national heritage."

Anthony Acitelli, Remington's Chief Executive Officer, stated, "Importantly, the fundamentals of our core business remain strong. We have an outstanding collection of brands and products, the unqualified support of a vibrant community across the industry, and a deep and powerful culture. We will emerge from this process with a deleveraged balance sheet and ample liquidity, positioning Remington to compete more aggressively and to seize future growth opportunities. We look forward to serving our customers, our partners throughout the industry, and our many fine employees, now and long into the future."

Key elements of the RSA and balance sheet restructuring are outlined below:

All existing unsecured and priority claims of Remington Outdoor Company and each of its subsidiaries (other than funded debt claims) will be unimpaired, including trade payables.

With the consent of a majority of the holders of the Term Loans (the "Term Loan Lenders") and the Third Lien Notes (the "Third Lien Noteholders"), Remington Outdoor Company will provide a $45 million delayed draw first-out first lien term loan (the "First-Out Term Loan") to FGI OpCo. This facility will roll into a debtor-in-possession term loan upon the Chapter 11 filing (the "ROC DIP Term Loan").

delayed draw first-out first lien term loan (the "First-Out Term Loan") to FGI OpCo. This facility will roll into a debtor-in-possession term loan upon the Chapter 11 filing (the "ROC DIP Term Loan"). The Consenting Creditors will provide a $100 million debtor-in-possession term loan (the "DIP Term Loan") to fund the Company's Chapter 11 Cases. Upon exiting bankruptcy, the DIP Term Loan will be converted into an Exit Term Loan.

debtor-in-possession term loan (the "DIP Term Loan") to fund the Company's Chapter 11 Cases. Upon exiting bankruptcy, the DIP Term Loan will be converted into an Exit Term Loan. The Company will arrange a new asset-based loan (ABL) facility at emergence, the proceeds of which will refinance the existing ABL facility in full.

The Term Loan Lenders will equitize their claims and receive 82.5% of the equity in Reorganized Remington. These lenders will also receive their Pro Rata share of $2.67 million in cash at emergence.

in cash at emergence. The Third Lien Noteholders will receive (i) 17.5% of the equity in Reorganized Remington through the equitization of the ROC DIP Term Loan, and (ii) 4-year warrants for 15% of the equity in Reorganized Remington at a strike price to be derived at emergence based on a $700 million enterprise value. The Third Lien Noteholders will also receive their pro rata share of the remaining cash at Remington Outdoor Company.

The RSA may be terminated upon the occurrence of certain events, including the failure to meet specified milestones relating to the filing, confirmation, and consummation of the restructuring. There can be no assurances that the restructuring will be consummated upon the terms described above.

Remington's legal counsel is Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP, its investment banker is Lazard, and its financial advisor is Alvarez & Marsal Capital Partners. The Term Loan Lenders' legal counsel is O'Melveny & Myers LLP, and their investment banker is Ducera Partners LLC. The Third Lien Noteholders' counsel is Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, and their investment banker is Perella Weinberg Partners L.P.

About Remington Outdoor Company

Remington Outdoor Company, headquartered in Madison, N.C., is one of the world's leading innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of firearms, ammunition, and related products for the hunting, shooting sports, law enforcement, and military markets. As one of the largest manufacturers in the world of firearms and ammunition, we have some of the most globally recognized brands including Remington, Bushmaster, DPMS/Panther Arms, Marlin, H&R, Dakota Arms, Parker, AAC, Barnes Bullets, Storm Lake and Tapco. For more information download the Remington Outdoor Company Brochure, located on www.remingtonoutdoorcompany.com.

Media Contact

John McKenna

ICR, Inc.

(203) 682-8252

[email protected]

SOURCE Remington Outdoor Company

Related Links

http://www.remingtonoutdoorcompany.com

"With its rich history and dynamic future, 'The Pearl of Asia' is an ideal place to expand the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts brand and this debut represents an important milestone in our global growth," says Sonia Cheng, chief executive officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. "With the ever-increasing desire for authentic travel experiences amongst affluent explorers, Rosewood Phnom Penh satisfies this urge while also giving us the opportunity to raise our flag in one of Asia's most fascinating cities."

"Phnom Penh fuses the majesty of the past with the pulse of the present and the promise of the future," says hotel Managing Director Daniel Grau. "At Rosewood Phnom Penh, we blend traditional refinement with contemporary sophistication to express Rosewood's A Sense of Place philosophy."

Designed by Melbourne's BAR Studio, with two restaurants created by Tokyo-based Bond Design Studio, the interior of the ultra-luxury hotel aims to capture the essence of the country with a blend of Khmer architectural aspects, the country's French colonial heritage and Cambodian craft techniques, all embraced by a subtle classic-meets-contemporary style.

For travelers experiencing the vibe of Phnom Penh, Rosewood Phnom Penh is the ideal base to become immersed into the vigor of the city. The iconic landmarks of The Royal Palace, National Museum, Central Market, Wat Phnom, the art street, riverside and the central business district are all conveniently located nearby.

The hotel's residential-style guestrooms are among the largest in Phnom Penh, with a total of 175 rooms including 37 suites. Their design includes large, round, window-facing tables that double as dining or work spaces, inviting guests to soak in vistas of the city skyline and tranquil Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers. Guestrooms at Rosewood Phnom Penh start from a spacious 50-square-meter Executive Room to the signature Norodom House at 225 square meters.

Gastronomes will be spoilt for choice with four dining venues, with innovative and cutting- edge fare spanning Asian, Japanese and European cuisines. The warm Brasserie Louis situated on level 35 instantly presents a panoramic vista of the city skyline and Mekong River from floor-to-ceiling, wrap-around windows, and features French classic comfort foods and regional Cambodian favorites in a casual yet elegant environment. The Living Room is residential-like retreat with a relaxed vibe and cozy corners -- a refreshing spot for breakfast, snacks during the day or cocktails and appetizers as day turns to dusk and evening. Iza is a Japanese izakaya-style restaurant that invites guests to linger, sample course after course, and socialize over a lively meal with robata-yaki and irori charcoal grill open kitchen with counter seating as the main feature. The highlight of the dining journey is Sora  translated as "sky" from Japanese  the highest bar in Phnom Penh, and uniquely perched on a cantilevered terrace on level 37 with unobstructed views of the Cambodian capital as its lofty spectacle.

Guests can maintain their healthy regime by taking advantage of the fitness center, which features an array of cardiovascular, strengthening and weight training equipment.

Tailored packages welcome travelers and staycationers to the capital of the "Kingdom of Wonder," with opening offers designed to introduce both the exotic capital and the ultra-luxury hotel.

"Whatever the passion  local culture, dining, adventure or simply strolling the city and taking it all in  our team will ensure it presents the best of Phnom Penh with a variety of local insights, suggested itineraries and exclusive reservations," says Mr. Grau.

Introductory offers include:

"A Taste of the Kingdom"  This package includes "A Sense of Place" welcome amenities, breakfast for two at Brasserie Louis, 25 percent savings in any dining venue excluding alcohol, high-speed Internet, one-way airport transfer by Rosewood Phnom Penh limousine and complimentary 24-hour late checkout upon availability. A Taste of the Kingdom starts from USD260 per room per night excluding tax and service charge.

"Mekong Indulgence"  This package presents an urban getaway high above the bustle of the city, where a couple or friends can luxuriate in an elegant Rosewood Suite, with daily breakfast. During the stay of one or more consecutive nights, guests can indulge in a 90-minute massage treatment for each person, enjoy a dinner in Brasserie Louis and receive a one-time replenishment of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages in the personal bar. Mekong Indulgence also includes high-speed Internet, personal butler service, round-trip airport transfer by Rosewood Phnom Penh limousine and complimentary 24-hour late checkout upon availability. The package starts from USD1,200 per room per night excluding tax and service charge.

The introductory offers are valid until July 31, 2018. For more information or reservations, please contact your travel professional, the hotel directly at telephone +855 23 936 888 or email [email protected] or visit rosewoodhotels.com/phnompenh .

About Rosewood Phnom Penh

Rosewood Phnom Penh presents an ultra-luxury hospitality experience in the Cambodian capital. The hotel is located on the top 14 floors of Vattanac Capital Tower in the central business district, with unobstructed views of the city and the fabled Mekong River from its position within the tallest building in the capital. Rosewood Phnom Penh embraces the Rosewood brand's A Sense of Place philosophy and reflects the location's history, culture and sensibilities. It features 175 rooms and suites; five restaurants and lounges, including Sora, a sky bar on a cantilevered terrace; Sense, A Rosewood Spa; a fitness center; a 20-meter indoor lap swimming pool; and meeting facilities that include The Pavilion residential-style meeting and function space. For more information or reservations, please contact your travel professional, the hotel directly at [email protected] or telephone +855 239 36 888.

For more information: rosewoodhotels.com/en/phnom-penh

Connect with us: Facebook Instagram @rosewoodphnompenh

About Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts manages 22 one-of-a-kind luxury properties in 13 countries, with 18 new hotels under development. Each Rosewood hotel embraces the brand's A Sense of Place philosophy to reflect the individual location's history, culture and sensibilities. The Rosewood collection includes some of the world's most legendary hotels and resorts, including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas and Hotel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, as well as new classics such as Rosewood Beijing.

For more information: rosewoodhotels.com

Connect with us: Facebook Twitter Instagram @rosewoodhotels; WeChat (ID:rosewoodhotels)

CONTACT: Charlotte Goodman, (646) 654-3413

SOURCE Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

Related Links

http://www.rosewoodhotels.com

LINCOLN, Neb., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Sandhills Publishing will host more than 130 dealers, auctioneers, rental and leasing companies, and other sellers in the agriculture, construction, commercial trucking, and aviation industries at a dealer forum event on March 15th in Nashville. In addition to round-table discussions and seminars, attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in one-on-one consultations focused on individual strategies and initiatives for long-term growth.

Sandhills Publishingthe Nebraska-based tech company behind such brands as Machinery Trader, CraneTrader, TractorHouse, Truck Paper, AuctionTime, RentalYard, Controller, and morehas held annual and semi-annual forums attracting attendees from across the country and around the world for nearly two decades. Attendees participate in seminars, round-table discussions, demonstrations, and one-on-one workshops with industry experts, focusing on key challenges affecting their industries and businesses. Seminars and round-table discussions at the upcoming forum will focus primarily on best practices for marketing new and used assets, wholesale and auction options, accurate and comprehensive asset valuations based on real-time data, effective online marketing (including SEO and SEM strategy), streamlining asset financing, and efficient inventory workflow across the board. Forums also provide dealers with networking opportunities and information about the user-friendly, industry-specific apps available to them through the Sandhills Cloud (a suite of hosted business solutions from Sandhills) both currently and on the horizon.

"These events provide opportunities for industry leaders to collaborate on key issues affecting their businesses, working through challenges to implement simple, cost-effective solutions that align with short- and long-term strategy," says Sandhills Publishing's Chief Administration Officer Nancy Paasch. "Whether a company is launching a rental division, interested in leveraging wholesale or auction outlets to move equipment more profitably, updating its online presence, or simply looking to generate more sales leadsour dealer forum events help them execute."

The event on March 15th is the first of several regional forums planned for 2018, including an August forum at Sandhills' global headquarters in Lincoln, Nebraska, and another in December in Ontario, California. Interested in attending? Contact Sandhills directly to register.

About Sandhills Publishing

Sandhills Publishing is an information processing company headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska. Our broad range of products and services gather, process, and distribute information in the form of trade publications and corresponding websites that connect buyers and sellers across the trucking, agriculture, construction, heavy equipment, aviation, and technology industries. Our integrated, industry-specific approach to hosted technologies and services offers solutions that help businesses large and small operate efficiently and grow securely, cost-effectively, and successfully. Sandhills Publishingwe are the cloud.

Contact Us:

[email protected]

(402) 479-2181

(800) 334-7443

SOURCE Sandhills PublishingSACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Scali Rasmussen attorney Monica J. Baumann will be inducted to the Board of Directors of the Sacramento Law Foundation, a regional support organization led by high-profile leaders in the legal community. Baumann will attend her first meeting as a board member and be inducted to her two-year term when the board convenes in March.

"It's a fantastic opportunity to give back to the community and develop greater connections in the legal community," said Baumann, a litigator and adviser with extensive experience in the automotive industry and in consumer environmental litigation, including Proposition 65 issues.

The SLF, is a charitable 501c(3) organization separate from and independent of the Sacramento County Bar Association. The group provides grants to organizations that improve the administration of justice, enhance public confidence in the legal profession, cultivate understanding of and respect for the rule of law, and support law-related public services.

Before joining Scali Rasmussen, Baumann was the California New Car Dealers Association's (CNCDA) Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs, overseeing cutting-edge, industry-affecting litigation, assisting in the preparation and presentation of new legislation affecting auto dealers in California and overseeing CNCDA dealer manuals. She spearheaded the first ever CNCDA Employment Law Manual and presented numerous educational compliance seminars to auto dealers.

Baumann also achieved much success advising and defending clients in a wide array of environmental compliance matters, including Proposition 65, labeling issues, and product liability, at the Sacramento office of international law firm Greenberg Traurig.

For more information, visit ScaliRasmussen.com.

SOURCE Scali Rasmussen

Related Links

http://scalirasmussen.com

Fisher Phillips and Michael & Alexander represent employers in workplace legal matters. Fisher Phillips Chairman Roger Quillen said: "The Michael & Alexander attorneys and staff have the same commitment to helping employers that has been in the DNA of Fisher Phillips from our firm's inception. Like our people, the Michael & Alexander team is known for their commitment to providing exceptional legal guidance coupled with a dedication to stellar client service."

Suzanne Michael, who joins Fisher Phillips as a partner, added: "Our current and future clients will benefit from the national reach that Fisher Phillips brings to labor and employment law. The firm's record of success for clients and its reputation for being a business partner to its clients attracted us to them."

The Michael & Alexander attorneys join an office with a robust management-side labor and employment law practice. The Seattle lawyers represent a wide array of organizations inside and outside of Washington. The Fisher Phillips Seattle office also has a significant Business Immigration Practice that includes five Immigration Paralegals.

Fisher Phillips Seattle Managing Partner Davis Bae said: "The attorneys and staff joining us from Michael & Alexander fit in perfectly with our firm culture of providing top-notch legal services, understanding our clients' business needs, and working in a collegial and inclusive atmosphere. Our clients will benefit from the extensive knowledge and experience that their team brings to us."

In addition to Suzanne Michael, the other attorneys who have joined Fisher Phillips are partner Stephanie Alexander, of counsel Matt Macario, and associates Kathleen Kline, Claire Marshall, and Thomas Vogliano.

Suzanne Kelly Michael focuses her practice on employment law, employment litigation, and civil litigation. She has litigated significant cases involving sexual harassment, sexual orientation discrimination, age and national origin discrimination, disability discrimination, and a host of other claims. Michael was named one of the "Top Ten Female Litigators in Washington State." She earned her law degree from Seattle University and her B.A. from the University of Washington.

Stephanie Alexander focuses her practice on employment and tort litigation, and employment counseling. She defends both public and private employers in litigation and arbitration for all types of employment related claims on a state and national level. She also regularly represents clients before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Human Rights Commission, and other administrative agencies. She received her law degree from the University of Washington School of Law and her B.A. from Montana State University.

Matt Macario has litigated significant cases for a wide variety of clients with experience in a broad range of litigation matters, including employment litigation, construction litigation, premises liability litigation, and cyber liability litigation and counseling. He received his law degree from Temple University and his B.A. from the University of California at Davis.

Kathleen Kline focuses her practice on employment litigation and general litigation. She previously served as a law clerk to the Honorable Ann Schindler of the Washington State Court of Appeals. She received her law degree from the University of Washington School of Law and her bachelor's degree in History and English from Seattle University. In law school, Kline served as the Chief Managing Editor of the Washington Law Review and as President of Street Youth Legal Advocates of Washington.

Claire Marshall focuses her practice on employment litigation and counseling. Marshall served as a law clerk to the Justices of the Massachusetts Superior Court and was a law clerk at several Boston-area law firms and a legal intern in the civil division of the United States Attorney's Office. She earned her law degree from Northeastern University School of Law and her bachelor's degree in Political Science from Macalester College.

Thomas Vogliano is an associate who recently served as assistant attorney general in the Washington Attorney General's office. He represented the Department of Labor & Industries through litigation and advice including covered employment status under the Industrial Insurance Act, workplace safety standards and enforcement, and employer audits for industrial insurance assessments. He also represented the Department of Social & Health Services. During his tenure he won numerous jury trials. He received his law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law and his Bachelors of Arts & Sciences from Gonzaga.

About Fisher Phillips (www.fisherphillips.com)

Fisher Phillips attorneys are ready to help you take a stand: in court, with employees and unions, or with competitors. Fisher Phillips has the experience and resolve to back you up. That's why some of the savviest employers come to the firm to handle their toughest labor and employment cases. The firm has more than 350 attorneys in 32 offices. The offices are in Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Cleveland, Columbia, Columbus, Dallas, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Gulfport, Houston, Irvine, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Louisville, Memphis, New Jersey, New Orleans, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tampa, and Washington, D.C.

SOURCE Fisher PhillipsCOSTA MESA, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The classic rules of residential real estate also apply to senior living communities. According to the J.D. Power 2018 Senior Living Satisfaction Study,SM released today, convenient location and quality staff are the key drivers of satisfactionfar outpacing costamong residents and their families.

The inaugural study measures resident and family satisfaction with the nation's largest providers of residential communities for seniors. Overall satisfaction is measured across six factors of the resident experience (listed in order of importance): caregiver and staff; services and activities; cost given services; rooms, building and grounds; food and beverage; and service setup and new resident orientation. Satisfaction is measured on a 1,000-point scale.

"With the oncoming 'silver tsunami' of Baby Boomers eventually flooding the senior living marketplace, independent and assisted-living providers are gearing up to exceed customer expectations, while expanding their portfolio by building and acquiring new assets," said Greg Truex, Senior Director at J.D. Power. "This inaugural study defines the performance metrics and behavioral patterns to reach operational capacity in the near term, while identifying critical long-term needs and demands. This is achieved by standardizing performance metrics, identifying resident expectations and behaviors, and creating a clear road map for providers by sharing a clear vision of today's customer expectations."

To conduct this study, J.D. Power surveyed residents of senior living communities along with individuals who make decisions on their behalf, such as spouses, siblings, adult children and friends. The study was conducted in partnership with A Place for Mom, a leading source of senior living industry consumer information and behavioral data tied to researching, selecting and moving into a senior living community. J.D. Power partnered with A Place for Mom to invite seniors and families who had recently transitioned to senior living communities to participate in the survey, which was independently administered by J.D. Power.

"We believe assisting families to fully understand their options through the independent information provided by J.D. Power and sites like SeniorAdvisor.com, or the support of a local A Place for Mom Senior Living Advisor, allows families the opportunity to fully understand their senior living options and make the right personal decision for themselves, or on behalf of a parent or loved one," added Charlie Severn, Vice President of Marketing at A Place for Mom.

Following are some key findings of the study:

Community staff is most important to overall satisfaction: When looking at all the factors that make up the senior living experience, caregiver and staff significantly stands out from the others. In fact, the staff is nearly twice as important as the cost given services factor in driving overall satisfaction.

When looking at all the factors that make up the senior living experience, caregiver and staff significantly stands out from the others. In fact, the staff is nearly twice as important as the cost given services factor in driving overall satisfaction. Location, location, location: Convenience of location is the top reason a community is selected (60%), followed by quality of staff and service (45%) and the variety of services offered (44%).

Convenience of location is the top reason a community is selected (60%), followed by quality of staff and service (45%) and the variety of services offered (44%). Exceeding expectations is key for communities: Communities that provide exceptional service are rewarded by their customers becoming brand ambassadors, positively speaking about their experience with an average of seven friends, relatives and colleagues. For those that fail to meet expectations, customers turn into brand assassins, speaking negatively about the brand to an average of 13 friends, relatives and colleagues.

Communities that provide exceptional service are rewarded by their customers becoming brand ambassadors, positively speaking about their experience with an average of seven friends, relatives and colleagues. For those that fail to meet expectations, customers turn into brand assassins, speaking negatively about the brand to an average of 13 friends, relatives and colleagues. Service agreement consistency is key to increasing satisfaction: While 89% of customers indicate there was consistency between what was listed in their service agreement and the actual service received, overall satisfaction decreases 300 points when the experience differs from what is included in the contract.

While 89% of customers indicate there was consistency between what was listed in their service agreement and the actual service received, overall satisfaction decreases 300 points when the experience differs from what is included in the contract. Referral services: Excluding respondents who utilized A Place for Mom as their referral service to avoid introducing bias, 21% of respondents used a referral service to find their community. Satisfaction among those who used a referral service during their search is 16 points higher than among those who didn't use such a service.

Study Rankings

Sunrise Senior Living ranks highest with an overall satisfaction score of 802, driven primarily by high scores in caregiver and staff; services and activities; rooms, building and grounds; food and beverage; and service setup and new resident orientation. Holiday Retirement (792) ranks second and Capital Senior Living Corporation (780) ranks third.

The study is based on responses from 2,539 residents (or their decision-maker) living in an independent or assisted-living community within the previous five years, and was fielded in October-December 2017.

For more information about the Senior Living Satisfaction Study, visit http://www.jdpower.com/resource/senior-living-study

See the online press release at http://www.jdpower.com/pr-id/2018019.

J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. These capabilities enable J.D. Power to help its clients drive customer satisfaction, growth and profitability. Established in 1968, J.D. Power is headquartered in Costa Mesa, Calif., and has offices serving North/South America, Asia Pacific and Europe. J.D. Power is a portfolio company of XIO Group, a global alternative investments and private equity firm headquartered in London, and is led by its four founders: Athene Li, Joseph Pacini, Murphy Qiao and Carsten Geyer.

A Place for Mom is a leading source of senior living industry consumer information and behavioral data tied to researching, selecting and moving into a senior living community. The Company partnered with J.D. Power to invite families who had recently transitioned to senior living communities to participate in the survey, which was administered by J.D. Power. For more information about A Place for Mom, visit www.aplaceformom.com.

Study Rankings



Overall Customer Care Index Ranking

JDPower.com Power Circle Ratings (Based on a 1,000-point scale)



For Consumers:







Sunrise Senior Living 802

5 Holiday Retirement 792

4 Capital Senior Living Corporation 780

4 Industry Average 764

3 Atria Senior Living Group 760

3 Senior Lifestyle Corporation 758

3 Brookdale 756

3 Five Star Quality Care 749

2







Power Circle Ratings Legend





5  Among the best





4  Better than most





3  About average





2  The rest







Media Relations Contacts

Geno Effler; Costa Mesa, Calif.; 714-621-6224; [email protected]

John Roderick; St. James, N.Y.; 631-584-2200; [email protected]

About J.D. Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules www.jdpower.com/about-us/press-release-info

SOURCE J.D. Power

Related Links

http://www.jdpower.com

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, Outdoorsy is turning the travel industry on its head, having booked over 263,000 days in the last year alone and generated nearly a hundred million dollars through the platform. The company hosts the largest bookable inventory of RVs worldwide online and is rapidly expanding its global fleet towards its goal of mobilizing the more than 17M idle RVs around the world.

"More than 12 percent of American households own a recreational vehicle, yet rarely use it," said Jeff Cavins, co-founder and CEO of Outdoorsy. "At the same time, more than 35Mconsumers try to rent a recreational vehicle in America each year with no luck. With Outdoorsy, we leveraged this global, cross-cultural phenomenon of RV travel, especially among Millennials, and brought this multi-billion dollar RV industry online and into the sharing economy."

Millennials now make up 38 percent of all recreational vehicle usage in North America as part of the larger trend of experiential travel and the desire to have unique experiences. With 40 percent of its user base being under the age of 40, 17 years younger than the industry average, Outdoorsy is tapping into this new consumer travel trend and building a third lodging category with mobile rooms. Users are able to go where home-sharing sites and hotels cannot go, reaching more places than ever before.

"RVs are the perfect gateway experiences for consumers, and the rising demand for campervan and RV travel was a growing trend in which we wanted to invest. Moving this market to an on-demand, online sharing economy was a logical way for us to participate in this new travel market," said Anthony Lee, Managing Director at Altos Ventures.

"Every on-demand agency in the recreational vehicle market needs to be using Outdoorsy and its pro tools across their operations," continued Lee. "Outdoorsy built the first solution that definitively shows the world's largest enterprises down to the at home operator, that they can list and rent safely, while enjoying peace of mind and economic benefits that were never before possible."

To create this on-demand marketplace, Outdoorsy utilizes state-of-the-art technology. In its first year in market, it introduced Wheelbase, a free, cloud-based and fully-insured RV fleet and rental management application for any business operating from three to 3,000 units. It also built, distributed and parallelized computation and real-time analytics engines to monitor and report on useful real time data, which promises users privacy and security.

"Our marketplace didn't exist just a few years ago," says Ryan Quinn, co-founder and head of software development. "The platform is a game-changer in this industry and ensures that our users can enjoy ease of use and peace of mind with every interaction."

Outdoorsy offers a wide range of services, including on-demand roadside assistance, powerful features such as INSTAmatch and INSTAbook that reduce the time required for searching/booking an RV, automated and integrated DMV verification and the first-ever commercial insurance for peer-to-peer rentals in North America. The insurance offering has now grown to $2M in coverage per rental and is live in the U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Further, the company recently announced a strategic partnership with Kampgrounds of America to bring camping assets and locations into the Outdoorsy marketplace and introduced an Active Duty Service and Military Veteran Program that waives listing and rental fees for service members.

"Outdoorsy's commitment to user safety, insurability and trust, along with the deep expertise in the management team, was very attractive for Aviva," said Ben Luckett, Managing Director of Aviva Ventures "We are pleased to partner with Outdoorsy  their lead in the market, excellent customer service and digital innovation are a great fit with Aviva's culture and the vision we have for our customers."

This investment follows a successful partnership between Aviva and Outdoorsy to provide an insurance solution to Outdoorsy users in Canada, helping to bring RV sharing to the country. The company's customer base includes professional agencies and dealerships across the U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand and a rapidly growing community of tens of thousands of private vehicle owners, who are enjoying life changing economic benefits.

For more information on Outdoorsy, visit www.Outdoorsy.com.

About Outdoorsy

Headquartered in San Francisco with offices in the US and Canada, Outdoorsy is the world's largest and most trusted, on-demand marketplace for recreational vehicles, with hundreds of thousands of rental days, 2+ million message exchanges between RV owners and renters and the fastest growing global fleet of unique outdoor vehicles. Outdoorsy is mobilizing the 17+ million idle RVs around the world, ensuring everyone has the access, choice and opportunity to safely enjoy outdoor recreational vehicle travel and empowering RV owners to realize life-changing financial benefits. You can find us at www.outdoorsy.com and come along for the ride on Outdoorsy's unique RV-loving Never Idle Travel Journal.

About Aviva Ventures

Aviva is the leading insurer in the UK, serving one in every four households and has strong businesses in selected markets in Europe, Asia and Canada. Aviva Ventures is Aviva's corporate venture capital fund aiming to invest 100m by 2020 in early stage businesses. It targets investments in digital and technology companies operating in four areas: 'the internet of things', for example in connected homes, health and cars; data and analytics; innovative customer experiences; and distribution, for example new 'sharing economy' platforms. For more information about Aviva Ventures, please visit https://www.aviva.com/about-us/aviva-worldwide/aviva-ventures/.



About Altos

Altos Ventures is a global venture growth investor dedicated to backing exceptional founder-led companies. Altos takes a different approach to building companies, focusing on pragmatic growth and patient partnership. Based in Silicon Valley, Altos manages a portfolio of fast-growing companies that together generate billions in revenue and employ over 10,000 people around the world. www.altos.vc.

SOURCE Outdoorsy

Related Links

http://www.outdoorsy.com

TORONTO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Sierra Metals Inc. (TSX: SMT) (BVL: SMT) (NYSE AMERICAN: SMTS) ("Sierra Metals" or "the Company") has filed a technical report prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") on the Cusi Mine (the "Report"). The Report supports the disclosure made by the Company in its news releases dated December 29, 2017 entitled "Sierra Metals Significantly Increases Mineral Resource Estimate for Cusi Mine, Mexico." There are no material differences in the mineral resources contained in the Report from those disclosed in the December 29, 2017 news release.

The Report included mineral resources for the Cusi Mine with:

Total Measured and Indicated Resources increased 129% to 4,557,000 tonnes from 1,990,000 tonnes previously reported, and Total Inferred Resources increased 36% to 1,633,000 tonnes from 1,200,000 tonnes previously reported

Total Measured Mineral Resources for Cusi are 362,000 tonnes averaging 225g/t silver, 0.55% lead, 0.68% zinc, 0.13 g/t gold for a total 268 g/t AgEq

Total Indicated Mineral Resources for Cusi are 4,195,000 tonnes averaging 217 g/t silver, 0.64% lead, 0.66% zinc, 0.21 g/t gold and 267 g/t AgEq

Total Inferred Mineral Resources for Cusi are 1,633,000 tonnes averaging 158 g/t silver, 0.54% lead, 0.84% zinc, 0.16 g/t gold and 207 g/t AgEq

The updated Resource Estimate varies from the previous 2017 Technical Report due to a variety of factors, including the use of silver equivalent cut-off grade and depletion by production since the previous Report was completed

The updated Resource Estimate has incorporated new exploration drilling, sampling, and underground mapping information into the geologic interpretation and grade estimations providing more refined resource models in the areas of San Nicolas and Promontorio

The Report dated February 9, 2018 with an effective date of August 31, 2017 is entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on Resources Cusi Mine Mexico", and was prepared by independent SRK Consulting (U.S.), Inc.

Signed by Qualified Persons:

Signed by Qualified Persons:

Giovanny J. Ortiz, BSc Geology, FAusIMM

Fernando Rodrigues, BS Mining, MBA, MMSAQP

Daniel Sepulveda, BSc Extractive Metallurgy Engineer, SME-RM

Mark Willow, MSc, CEM, SME-RM

Reviewed by:

Matthew Hastings, MSc Geology, MAusIMM (CP)

Notes on the Resource Estimate

The procedures and methods supporting the mineral resource estimation have been developed in conjunction with Dia Bras geological personnel. The understanding of the geology and mineralization at Cusi is based on a large volume of geologic data as well as a robust history of production. SRK has reviewed the methods and procedures for data collection methods supporting the estimate, and notes that they are reasonable and consistent with industry best practice. Geology models were generated by Dis Bras geologists using Leapfrog Geo, and locally vary significantly from those used in previous reports. A combination of diamond drilling, channel sampling, and mine mapping have been used to inform these models, and SRK is of the opinion that they are an accurate interpretation of the mineralization at Cusi. These models, presented as 3D wireframes, are used to constrain block models, which are flagged with variables such as bulk density, mine area, depletion, etc.

The resource estimations presented herein have been conducted or reviewed by independent consultants using supporting data generated by the site. SRK conducted independent estimations for the Cusi Mine. Grade for the four primary commodities (Ag, Au, Pb, Zn) is estimated into the block models using both drilling and channel samples, applying industry-standard estimation methodology. Interpolation methods were generally via inverse distance. Mineral resources estimated by the independent consultants are categorized in a manner consistent with industry best practice, and are reported above reasonable unit value cut-offs based on actual marginal production costs to satisfy public reporting criteria.

SRK is of the opinion that the resource estimations are suitable for public reporting and are a fair representation of the in-situ contained metal for the Cusi deposit.

The information in this announcement regarding the Resource Estimate included in the Report is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Report. The Report is available for review on SEDAR (www.sedar.com), EDGAR (www.SEC.gov) and the Company's website (www.sierrametals.com).

Qualified Persons

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Gordon Babcock P.Eng., Chief Operating Officer and a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Americo Zuzunaga, MAusIMM CP (Mining Engineer) and Vice President of Corporate Planning is a Qualified Person and chartered professional qualifying as a Competent Person under the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources, and Ore Reserves.

Augusto Chung, FAusIMM CP (Metallurgist) and Consultant to Sierra Metals is a Qualified Person and chartered professional qualifying as a Competent Person on metallurgical processes.

About Sierra Metals

Sierra Metals Inc. is Canadian based growing polymetallic mining company with production from its Yauricocha Mine in Peru, and its Bolivar and Cusi Mines in Mexico. The Company is focused on increasing production volume and growing mineral resources. Sierra Metals has recently had several new key discoveries and still has many more exciting brownfield exploration opportunities at all three Mines in Peru and Mexico that are within close proximity to the existing mines. Additionally, the Company also has large land packages at all three mines with several prospective regional targets providing longer-term exploration upside and mineral resource growth potential.

The Company's Common Shares trade on the Bolsa de Valores de Lima and the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "SMT" and on the NYSE American Exchange under the symbol "SMTS."

Continue to Follow, Like and Watch our progress:

Web: www.sierrametals.com | Twitter: sierrametals | Facebook: SierraMetalsInc | LinkedIn: Sierra Metals Inc

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian and U.S. securities laws related to the Company (collectively, "forward-looking information"). Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Company's operations, including the anticipated developments in the Company's operations in future periods, the Company's planned exploration activities, the adequacy of the Company's financial resources, and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. Statements concerning mineral reserve and resource estimates may also be considered to constitute forward-looking statements to the extent that they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered if and when the properties are developed or further developed. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", "potential" or variations thereof, or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the mining industry including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected geological formations, floods, labour disruptions, explosions, cave-ins, weather conditions and criminal activity; commodity price fluctuations; higher operating and/or capital costs; lack of available infrastructure; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks associated with the estimation of mineral resources and the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits and the inability to replace reserves; fluctuations in the price of commodities used in the Company's operations; risks related to foreign operations; changes in laws or policies, foreign taxation, delays or the inability to obtain necessary governmental permits; risks relating to outstanding borrowings; issues regarding title to the Company's properties; risks related to environmental regulation; litigation risks; risks related to uninsured hazards; the impact of competition; volatility in the price of the Company's securities; global financial risks; inability to attract or retain qualified employees; potential conflicts of interest; risks related to a controlling group of shareholders; dependence on third parties; differences in U.S. and Canadian reporting of mineral reserves and resources; potential dilutive transactions; foreign currency risks; risks related to business cycles; liquidity risks; reliance on internal control systems; credit risks, including risks related to the Company's compliance with covenants with respect to its BCP Facility; uncertainty of production and cost estimates for the Yauricocha Mine, the Bolivar Mine and the Cusi Mine; and other risks identified in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), which filings are available at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov, respectively.

This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company's forward-looking information. Forward-looking information includes statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and the Company's actual achievements or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking information due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. The Company's statements containing forward-looking information are based on the beliefs, expectations, and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, other than as required by applicable law. For the reasons set forth above, one should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Note Regarding Reserve and Resource Estimates

All reserve and resource estimates reported by the Company are calculated in accordance with the Canadian National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Classification system. These standards differ significantly from the requirements of the SEC. The differences between these standards are discussed in our SEC filings. Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

SOURCE Sierra Metals Inc.

Related Links

www.sierrametals.com

HAMBURG, Germany, February 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

SIGNA to build Elbtower in Hamburg , the project of the century

Outstanding design by David Chipperfield Architects impresses jury consisting of architects, city planners and real estate professionals

Spectacular high-rise, with completion planned for mid- 2025, will be 233.30 metres high, making it the tallest building in the Hanseatic city

The contract was awarded based on architectural quality, reliability, financial solidity and proven experience with similar complex projects

Existing SIGNA portfolio in Hamburg , including Alsterhaus, Alsterkaden and Kaufmannshaus, is expanded by the Elbtower, the project of the century

Just one year after the first announcement regarding Hamburg's skyscraper plans next to the Elbe Bridges in HafenCity, the city has decided to build the Elbtower. On February 8th, 2018, at the Town Hall, Hamburg's First Mayor Olaf Scholz, joined by Senator Dorothee Stapelfeldt, Prof. Jurgen Bruns-Berentelg, Chairman of the Board of HafenCity Hamburg GmbH, Christoph Felger, Partner and Design Director at David Chipperfield Architects Berlin, Hamburg's Chief Planning Director Franz-Josef Hoing, and Timo Herzberg, CEO of SIGNA Prime Selection AG, presented the new builder SIGNA, the architectural design by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin, as well as the use and implementation concept for Hamburg's future tallest building.

"Hamburg, with its long history and high appeal, is getting a new urban landmark with the Elbtower," Timo Herzerg said. "The aim of the project is to create a place that appeals to and unites all of society, through the creation of spatial and functional structures that allow for a variety of forms of work and uses. We are proud that we received a unanimous vote from the jury for our spectacular design and concept."

In the coming years, SIGNA Prime Selection AG will build the Elbtower based on plans by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin as a landmark high-rise building right next to the Elbe Bridges. Construction will start in early 2021 and completion is planned for mid-2025. The Elbtower, which will be 233 metres high, will become an unmistakable point of focus in Hamburg. The Elbtower represents both a culmination of the HafenCity development and, at the same time, the prelude to the entrance into Hamburg's city centre. Together with the new Elbbrucken subway and urban railway station, it will become a new urban hub that will be reachable from the future urban development areas of Billebogen and Grasbrook.

"We are very pleased that we won the bidding process for the Elbtower together with SIGNA and that we have the opportunity to work in Hamburg again, especially in such an important location," David Chipperfield said. "As architects, we are increasingly aware that the city depends on the quality of private construction projects to create a strong social dimension that addresses the complexity of the city. We are very happy to take on this responsibility with the Elbtower project."

For the "Elbtower" high-rise project, a single-phase builder selection process was carried out. The process was successfully completed in just nine months. The tender phase started on 31 May 2017. An interdisciplinary, independent jury selected the three applicants, and HafenCity Hamburg GmbH then started negotiations with them in November 2017, following the approval of the Supervisory Board.

As part of a final jury decision on 31 January 2018, SIGNA stood out from its other two competitors and was selected as the future builder. The jury was impressed with the fact that the design by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin fits in very well with Hamburg's architectural culture and famous city silhouette. Consisting of architects, city planners and real estate professionals, the jury unanimously voted for the design by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin.

Supported by the design by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin, who also designed the Kaufhaus Tyrol in Innsbruck and the WaltherPark Project in Bolzano for SIGNA, and who were also responsible for the design of the Nobel Center in Stockholm and the James Simon Gallery in Berlin, SIGNA prevailed in the complex selection process for the high-rise development next to the Elbe Bridges.

In addition, SIGNA impressed with the resilience of its financing through high equity capital backing, with financial solidity and rich experience with similar complex projects.

On February 6th, 2018, the Supervisory Board approved the project and the notarial certificate was drawn up. The validity of the contract requires the approval of the Hamburg Parliament, which is expected to come to a decision in this matter in late summer 2018.

Source: Signa http://www.signa.at

Further inquiries:

SIGNA

Robert Leingruber

Head of PR & Communications

E-mail: [email protected]

T: +43 1 5329848 - 2534



SOURCE SIGNANEW YORK, Feb.12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - The company announced today it will be hosting a booth at the World Mobile Congress in Barcelona, Spain in Hall5 booth 5k17. #MWC18

The GSMA Mobile World Congress is a combination of the world's largest exhibition for the mobile industry and a conference featuring prominent executives representing mobile operators, device manufacturers, technology providers, vendors and content owners from across the world. The event, initially named as GSM World Congress and later renamed as the 3GSM World Congress, is still often referred to as 3GSM or 3GSM World.

Mobile World Congress is the world's largest gathering for the mobile industry, organised by the GSMA and held in the Mobile World Capital, Barcelona, 26 February  1 March 2018

CEO Massimo Barone stated "Our digital transformation strategy is expanding across several markets and our message to our clients, partners and shareholders signals our ability for growth in the Payment & Fintech Industry servicing both domestic and international clients. We have had tremendous success recently at CES Las Vegas in January and in Bankgok at the Seamless Payments show. Our focus at these shows to partner with local companies has been to work with device manufacturers, payment processors and banks to deliver a cashless mobile & web solution to both the unbanked and retail customers."

About SmartCard Marketing Systems, Inc.

SmartCard Marketing, Inc. (OTC:SMKG) is a Fintech solutions provider to the global payments industry delivering a cloud-based EMV Host platform to Issuing & Acquiring banks, telecoms & global enterprises. The company offers proprietary industry applications for payment acceptance. The company's brands include; Genorocity.com, a coupon & incentive management platform with QR Code payments acceptance, Check21SAAS.com a Remote Check Deposit solution, Mtickets.events a mobile ticketing & events management solution, Emphasispay.com an alternative payment transaction gateway & Articul8te.com its most recent offering for Task & Content management. For more information, go to www.smartcardmarketingsystems.com

SOURCE SmartCard Marketing Systems Inc (SMKG)

Related Links

www.smartcardmarketingsystems.com

ATLANTA, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly two dozen Southern Company system employees have been recognized by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) with its 2017 Technology Transfer Awards for demonstrating research and development excellence to solve significant industry issues.

This marks the 20th consecutive year Southern Company system employees have been honored with the highly regarded Technology Transfer Award since its inception in 1997.

"As the industry continues to experience unprecedented change, our employees are meeting the challenge with vision and innovation," said Southern Company Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Kimberly S. Greene. "The EPRI Technology Transfer Award recognizes their leadership and technical acumen in finding solutions that deliver clean, safe, reliable, affordable energy for the customers and communities we are privileged to serve."

This year, Southern Company's 21 Technology Transfer Award winners, who worked individually and as teams, were represented in every EPRI award category  generation, power delivery and utilization, energy and environment and nuclear. Many of the efforts involved collaboration of employees across multiple Southern Company business units and subsidiaries.

Winning projects focused on a variety of key industry issues, including solar photovoltaic adoption, cybersecurity and methods for optimizing power plant performance, costs and safety.

"Each of Southern Company's Technology Transfer Award recipients has demonstrated the collaborative ingenuity necessary to solve some of the electric industry's most pressing challenges," said Arshad Mansoor, EPRI's senior vice president of Research and Development. "The invaluable contributions of this year's recipients reflect Southern Company's continued commitment to shaping the future of energy through cutting-edge R&D."

Southern Company's 2017 Technology Transfer Award winners, listed by EPRI sector, are:

Generation  Chethan Acharya (Southern Company Services), Josh Barron (Southern Company Services), Stephen Langham (Southern Company Services), Noah Meeks (Southern Company Services), Andrew Peleaz (Georgia Power), Dean Sheffield (Southern Power) and Thomas Wideman (Southern Company Services)

 (Southern Company Services), (Southern Company Services), (Southern Company Services), (Southern Company Services), (Georgia Power), (Southern Power) and (Southern Company Services) Power Delivery and Utilization  Elaine Kwarcinski (Alabama Power), Christine Ledoux (Southern Company Services), Guy Palmer (Southern Company Services), Steve Sanders (Southern Company Services), Joseph Stewart (Mississippi Power) and Christopher Taylor (Southern Company Services)

 (Alabama Power), (Southern Company Services), (Southern Company Services), (Southern Company Services), (Mississippi Power) and (Southern Company Services) Energy and Environment  Dorian Afanador (Southern Company Services), Bill Garrett (Alabama Power), Jonathan Ponstein (Alabama Power), Tyler Sullens (Alabama Power) and Justin Walters (Southern Company Services)

 (Southern Company Services), (Alabama Power), (Alabama Power), (Alabama Power) and (Southern Company Services) Nuclear  Ryan Joyce (Southern Nuclear), Gary Lofthus (Southern Nuclear) and Tim Wells (Southern Nuclear)

As an independent, nonprofit organization, EPRI's research is conducted in conjunction with scientists, engineers and experts from academia and industry. Its members represent around 90 percent of the electricity generated and delivered in the U.S., with international participation in more than 30 countries.

Known for its historic commitment to innovation, Southern Company remains at the forefront of research and development for the production, delivery and end-use of energy, managing approximately $2.3 billion in research and development investments since the 1960s.

About Southern Company

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is America's premier energy company, with 46,000 megawatts of generating capacity and 1,500 billion cubic feet of combined natural gas consumption and throughput volume serving 9 million electric and gas utility customers through its subsidiaries. The company provides clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy through electric utilities in four states, natural gas distribution utilities in seven states, a competitive generation company serving wholesale customers across America and a nationally recognized provider of customized energy solutions, as well as fiber optics and wireless communications. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and affordable prices that are below the national average. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, Southern Company and its subsidiaries are inventing America's energy future by developing the full portfolio of energy resources, including carbon-free nuclear, 21st century coal, natural gas, renewables and energy efficiency, and creating new products and services for the benefit of customers. Southern Company has been named by the U.S. Department of Defense and G.I. Jobs magazine as a top military employer, recognized among the Top 50 Companies for Diversity by DiversityInc, listed by Black Enterprise magazine as one of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity and designated a Top Employer for Hispanics by Hispanic Network. Visit our website at www.southerncompany.com.

SOURCE Southern Company

Related Links

http://www.southerncompany.com

NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- StopforChange is a movement formed in response to three NYC drivers in economic distress committing suicide. At a Candlelight Vigil at City Hall, where earlier Douglas Schifter committed suicide (with a shotgun, no less), attendees gathered, channeling pain into strength, they vowed to heed Schifter's call to unite drivers.

The thing holding all drivers back is a feeling of helplessness. As the NYC rideshare market continues to mint millionaires and billionaires, drivers are working longer hours for less pay. Moe Gangat summed up the state of play: "Founders and investors get all the money  and it is a lot of money. Drivers have no say, no seat at the bargaining table. Hell, there is no bargaining table. It is just Uber, Lyft, and Juno forcing contracts down their throats. So drivers get the shaft. It is a broken system and a total nightmare."

StopforChange cautions against trying yet another strike. Says Moe Gangat: "Asking drivers to stop driving  and stop earning  even for just a few days is asking too much. We are not doing a strike. At least not a strike in the traditional sense. We have new ideas that will take hard work but we see the road ahead. Every driver we meet gets it. We're excited to see it come together."

StopforChange is getting bigger by the second. Movement members are connecting via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at invite-only weekly meetings (with free parking) near La Guardia Airport. The movement hopes to organize 1,000 drivers in its first month and 25,000 drivers by year's end.

About StopforChange: StopforChange is organizing NYC drivers to bargain for a fair share of NYC's billion-dollar rideshare market. 25,000 drivers speaking as one will not be denied. All drivers want is fair pay. Get ready for #StopforChange. Join the movement and support drivers!

www.stopforchange.com

Join Our Facebook Group For Exclusive News and Access at https://www.facebook.com/stopforchange

PressContact:

Moe Gangat

(718) 669-0714

[email protected]

Related Images

candlelight-vigil-in-memory-of.jpg

candlelight-vigil-in-memory-of.jpg

demonstration-at-city-hall.jpg

stopforchange.png

Related Links

StopforChange website

StopforChange Facebook page

SOURCE StopforChange

Related Links

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This new open-platform, high-throughput single-cell automation system allows researchers to gain greater confidence in the results of their single-cell analyses by using innovative technologies that allow only the most informative cells to be processed and analyzed. While the system will come prevalidated with several SMARTer applications, it will also provide the flexibility to enable users to develop applications of their choice.

The SMARTer ICELL8 cx System includes a built-in imaging station and software analysis tool to visualize individual nanowells and process the images to differentiate single cells from empty wells or wells containing multiple cells. The multicolor imaging capability also provides the opportunity to perform applications like live-dead differentiation using suitable dyes. The unique imaging component differentiates this platform from other high-throughput platforms by generating cleaner data and eliminating background noise thus increasing confidence in the data obtained.

TBUSA is also proud to announce the availability of its SMART-Seq full-length transcriptome analysis technology on the SMARTer ICELL8 system. High-throughput single-cell RNA-seq has seen many advancements involving automation processes in recent years. Most of these high-throughput automation methods, however, have been limited by only allowing differential expression (DE) with end-capture methods such as 3' DE or 5' DE.

"Full-length transcriptome analysis has been repeatedly shown to have higher sensitivity in the number of transcripts detected. Moreover, full-length transcript detection provides the potential for greater biological understanding of both physiological as well as pathology conditions, for example by enabling splice-variant detection and characterization, or the detection of mutations or gene fusions critical in cancer progression," said Andrew Farmer, CSO/Head of Research and Development at TBUSA. "SMART-Seq technology, in particular, has been extensively demonstrated to provide excellent full-length transcript information."

"Takara Bio is dedicated to performing and enabling good science that progresses research in the biological sciences and deepens researchers' understanding of relevant samples. The combination of the SMARTer ICELL8 cx System and SMART-Seq technology continues our tradition of providing solutions that are powerful in the scientific community," said Carol Lou, President of Takara Bio USA, Inc.

To request information about the SMARTer ICELL8 cx System, please visit takarabio.com/SMARTer_ICELL8_cx_inquiry.

About Takara Bio USA, Inc.

Takara Bio USA, Inc. (formerly Clontech Laboratories, Inc.), a wholly owned subsidiary of Takara Bio Inc., develops, manufactures, and distributes a wide range of kits, reagents, and instruments for life science research under the Takara, Clontech, and Cellartis brands. Key products include SMARTer NGS kits; SMARTer and SmartChip automation systems; high-performance qPCR and PCR reagents (including Takara Ex Taq, Takara LA Taq, Titanium, and Advantage enzymes); Cellartis stem cell services, culture systems, cell lines, and reagents; the innovative In-Fusion cloning system; Guide-it gene editing tools; Tet-based inducible gene expression systems; Capturem protein purification solutions; and Living Colors fluorescent proteins. These and other products support applications including studies of gene regulation and function by a variety of methods including NGS; analyses of protein interaction, localization, and activity; drug discovery research and toxicity testing; development of clinical diagnostic assays; plant and food research; and stem cell research. For more information, visit takarabio.com.

About Takara Bio Inc.

Takara Bio Inc. is an innovative biotechnology company based in Shiga, Japan. As a world leader in biotechnology research and development, Takara Bio was the first company to market PCR technology in Japan and is also the developer of the RetroNectin reagent, which is used as a world standard in gene therapy protocols. In addition to providing research reagents and equipment to the life science research market, Takara Bio has active research and product development activities in the fields of gene and cell-based therapy and agricultural biotechnology; and is committed to preventing disease and improving the quality of life for all people through the use of biotechnology. Through strategic alliances with other industry leaders, Takara Bio aims to extend its reach around the world. More information is available at takara-bio.com.

SOURCE Takara Bio USA, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.clontech.com

"We are honored to once again be named an Ethisphere World's Most Ethical Company," said TE Connectivity CEO Terrence Curtin. "At TE, our purpose is to create a safer, sustainable, productive and connected future. This distinction is a testament to the fact that we are living our purpose every day, not only through our words and values, but also in the way we operate. We continue to hold ourselves to high ethical standards and are proud to have a positive impact on our customers, partners, and employees around the world."

Honorees for the World's Most Ethical Company designation have shown record levels of involvement with their stakeholders and in their communities. They improve culture, lead authentically, and have committed to transparency, diversity, and inclusion.

"While the discourse around the world changed profoundly in 2017, a stronger voice emerged. Global corporations operating with a common rule of law are now society's strongest force to improve the human condition. This year we saw companies increasingly finding their voice. The World's Most Ethical Companies in particular continued to show exemplary leadership," explained Ethisphere's CEO Timothy Erblich. "I congratulate everyone at TE Connectivity for being recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies."

Methodology & Scoring

The World's Most Ethical Company assessment is based upon the Ethisphere Institute's Ethics Quotient (EQ) framework which offers a quantitative way to assess a company's performance in an objective, consistent and standardized way. The information collected provides a comprehensive sampling of definitive criteria of core competencies, rather than all aspects of corporate governance, risk, sustainability, compliance and ethics.

Scores are generated in five key categories: ethics and compliance program (35%), corporate citizenship and responsibility (20%), culture of ethics (20%), governance (15%) and leadership, innovation and reputation (10%) and provided to all companies who participate in the process.

Honorees

The full list of the 2018 World's Most Ethical Companies can be found at https://worldsmostethicalcompanies.com/honorees.

Best practices and insights from the 2018 honorees will be released in a series of infographics and research throughout the year. Organizations interested in how they compare to the World's Most Ethical Companies are invited to participate in the Ethics Quotient.

ABOUT TE CONNECTIVITY

TE Connectivity Ltd. (NYSE: TEL) is a $13 billion global technology and manufacturing leader creating a safer, sustainable, productive, and connected future. For more than 75 years, our connectivity and sensor solutions, proven in the harshest environments, have enabled advancements in transportation, industrial applications, medical technology, energy, data communications, and the home. With 78,000 employees, including more than 7,000 engineers, working alongside customers in nearly 150 countries, TE ensures that EVERY CONNECTION COUNTS. Learn more at www.te.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, WeChat and Twitter.

About the Ethisphere Institute

The Ethisphere Institute is the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices that fuel corporate character, marketplace trust and business success. Ethisphere has deep expertise in measuring and defining core ethics standards using data-driven insights that help companies enhance corporate character. Ethisphere honors superior achievement through its World's Most Ethical Companies recognition program, provides a community of industry experts with the Business Ethics Leadership Alliance (BELA) and showcases trends and best practices in ethics with the publication of Ethisphere Magazine. More information about Ethisphere can be found at: http://ethisphere.com.

SOURCE TE Connectivity Ltd.

Related Links

http://www.te.com

"One of the reasons we joined the Urban School Food Alliance last fall was not only to be able to provide the best quality food for our students, but to also implement sound environmental practices," said Elizabeth Marchetta, executive director of the Food and Nutrition Department at Baltimore City Public Schools. "With more and more cities striving for zero waste, we wanted to become proactive in making a change for the betterment of our community."

The Urban School Food Alliance is a coalition of the largest school districts in the United States that includes New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Dallas, Orange County in Orlando, Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Clark County in Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Boston. In 2014, the original six members of the group (NYC, LA, Chicago, Miami, Dallas and Orange County) challenged industry to develop an innovative and affordable environmentally-friendly round plate to replace 225 million polystyrene trays across their six schools districts each year.

"Shifting from polystyrene trays to compostable plates helps reduce plastics pollution in our communities and oceans and begins to create valuable compost that can be re-used on our farms," said Margaret Brown, attorney with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), one of the nation's leading environmental and public health organizations and a non-profit partner of the Alliance. "This is also an important step for cities in beginning to slash significant amounts of waste going to overburdened landfills. The Urban School Food Alliance is helping Baltimore and Philadelphia make important changes that can be a model for schools across the country."

The Urban School Food Alliance serves nearly 3.7 million children daily, translating to more than 631 million meals a year. With an annual budget of $831 million in food and supplies, the nonprofit group allows the districts to share best practices and to leverage their purchasing power to continue to drive food quality up and costs down while incorporating sound environmental practices.

"As one of the smaller districts in the Alliance, we couldn't have afforded to purchase compostable plates on our own," said School District of Philadelphia Senior Vice President of Food Services Wayne T. Grasela. "This initiative aligns with GreenFutures, the district's overall sustainability plan and advances the District's work in reducing our environmental impact."

Schools across America use polystyrene trays because they cost less than compostable ones. Polystyrene trays average about $0.04 apiece, compared to its compostable counterpart, which averages about $0.12 each. Given the extremely tight budgets in school meal programs, affording compostable plates seemed impossible until the Urban School Food Alliance districts used their collective purchasing power to innovate a compostable round plate for schools at an affordable cost of about $0.05 each.

Philadelphia, which now uses the compostable plate, is meeting with student environmental clubs to help design a marketing campaign to get the word out about the new compostable plates and how they help preserve the environment. The district also plans a pilot program among its high schools to compost the plates.

Baltimore will roll out the plates over the next three months in the district. It currently has composting in a few middle schools and plans to pilot composting programs in other schools.

The American-made molded fiber compostable round plate is produced from 100 percent pre-consumer recycled paper fibers. It is manufactured in Maine by Huhtamaki North America. The Alliance round plate has five compartments, with the beverage compartment strategically placed in the middle to balance the weight of a typical meal. The innovative design prevents hinging or bending and is easy to handle.

About the Urban School Food Alliance

The Urban School Food Alliance was created by school food professionals in 2012 to address the unique needs of the nation's largest school districts. The nonprofit group allows the districts to share best practices and leverage their purchasing power to continue to drive quality up and costs down while incorporating sound environmental practices. New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Miami-Dade, Orange County in Orlando, Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Clark County in Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Boston together offer service in more than 5,600 schools to nearly 3.7 million children daily. This translates to more than 631 million meals a year. The coalition aims to ensure that all public school students across the nation receive healthy, nutritious meals through socially responsible practices. To learn more about the Urban School Food Alliance or to support its work, please visit www.urbanschoolfoodalliance.org.

SOURCE Urban School Food Alliance

Related Links

http://www.urbanschoolfoodalliance.org

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Zimperium, the global leader in mobile threat defense (MTD), announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Tricia Bonora, Senior Director, Americas Channels, to its prestigious list of 2018 Channel Chiefs. The executives on this annual list represent top leaders in the IT channel who excel at driving growth and revenue in their organization through channel partners.

Channel Chief honorees are selected by CRN's editorial staff on the basis of their professional achievements, standing in the industry, dedication to the channel partner community, and strategies for driving future growth and innovation. Each of the 2018 Channel Chiefs has demonstrated loyalty and ongoing support for the IT channel by consistently promoting, defending and executing outstanding channel partner programs.

Bonora has a proven track record of building strategic channel partnerships across worldwide markets. Focused on making Zimperium's partners more successful, Tricia spearheaded the launch of the company's enhanced global channel program, the zPartner Program, which was released in September 2017. Under her leadership, Bonora expanded Zimperium's initial channel program by focusing on adding complementary strategic relationships with VARs, solution providers and system integrators, as well as increasing benefits to all partners in the form of improved sales empowerment resources, additional marketing support and operational improvements to support multiple go to market models and increase customer adoption.

"The executives on CRN's 2018 Channel Chiefs list stand out for their exceptional leadership, vision and commitment to the channel," said Robert Faletra, Executive Chairman of The Channel Company. "These individuals deserve special recognition for their development and support of robust partner programs, innovative business strategy and significant contribution to the overall health of a vigorously growing channel. We applaud each Channel Chief's impressive record of accomplishments and look forward to their future successes."

"As mobile attacks become more advanced, Zimperium is arming its channel partners with the insight and technology they need to increase the value and improve guidance they provide to their customers," said Bonora. "This recognition is a testament to the determination and commitment of our entire company in enabling the success of our channel partners. Zimperium is constantly building and offering new, innovative technology, so it's partners can continuously improve their solution offerings to address this fast-growing market and to be prepared to support their customers as the threat landscape continues to evolve."

The 2018 CRN Channel Chiefs list, including the 50 Most Influential Channel Chiefs, is featured online at www.crn.com/channelchiefs and will appear in the February 2018 issue of CRN.

Follow The Channel Company: Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook

Tweet This: @TheChannelCo names @Zimperium's @tbonoraf to @CRN 2018 Channel Chiefs list #CRNChannelChiefs www.crn.com/channelchiefs

About Zimperium

Zimperium, the global leader in mobile security, offers real-time, on-device protection against Android and iOS threats. The Zimperium platform leverages our award-winning machine learning-based engine, z9, to protect mobile data, apps and sessions against device compromises, network attacks and malicious apps. To date, z9 has detected 100% of zero-day mobile exploits without requiring an update or suffering from the delays and limitations of cloud-based detectionsomething no other mobile security provider can claim. Headquartered in San Francisco, Zimperium is backed by Sierra Ventures, Samsung, Telstra, Warburg Pincus and SoftBank. Learn more at www.zimperium.com or our official blog at https://blog.zimperium.com.

Zimperium, the Zimperium name, and logo, Powered by Zimperium, zIPS, zIAP and z9 are registered trademarks or trademarks of Zimperium, Inc. in the US and other countries.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelco.com

CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

The Channel Company Contact:

Melanie Turpin

The Channel Company

508.416.1195

[email protected]

Press Contacts:

InkHouse PR for Zimperium

(415) 299-6600

[email protected]

SOURCE Zimperium

Related Links

http://www.zimperium.com

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- An emergency-repair project that quickly restored sewer service, protected against future problems and saved Kansas City, Missouri, more than $600,000 in anticipated costs is being honored among the year's best engineering projects in Missouri.

The West Blue River Interceptor Sewer Project is a winner in the ACEC Missouri Engineering Excellence Awards.

The West Blue River Interceptor Sewer Project, a 72-inch aerial sewer crossing Brush Creek, designed and delivered by the team of Burns & McDonnell and Leath & Sons, is a winner of an Honor Award from the Missouri chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies. The chapter presented its 2018 Engineering Excellence Awards during a banquet Feb. 10 in Columbia, Missouri.

Judges honored the team for its quick, efficient and effective work replacing a failed aerial sewer and the emergency bypass that the City had installed on a temporary basis. The bypass had been costing the City $70,000 a month, an expense that could not be sustained.

"This unexpected failure of the interceptor could have become a costly and time-consuming process to fix," says Karine Papikian, project manager for Kansas City Water Services. "Instead, the Leath & Sons and Burns & McDonnell team quickly delivered solutions to remedy the sewer failure, saving the City money, and made improvements to existing infrastructure to mitigate future issues."

Jeff Heidrick, project manager for Burns & McDonnell says, "The design-build process allowed us to expedite all facets of the design and construction process. Using a collaborative approach, we were able to quickly discuss ideas and solutions, and provide Water Services a long-term sustainable solution for this aerial creek crossing."

For photos and support materials, visit our MEDIA KIT.

About Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies made up of more than 6,000 engineers, architects, construction professionals, scientists, consultants and entrepreneurs with offices across the country and throughout the world. We strive to create amazing success for our clients and amazing careers for our employee-owners. Burns & McDonnell is 100 percent employee-owned and is proud to be No. 16 on Fortune's 2017 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For. For more information, visit burnsmcd.com.

Contact: Mark Fagan, Burns & McDonnell

816-822-3966

[email protected]

SOURCE Burns & McDonnell

Related Links

http://www.burnsmcd.com

DALLAS, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Timicoin (www.Timicoin.io), world's first cryptocurrency mobile platform to use blockchain technology for storing and accessing medical records, will have a world famous health advocate in its corner at the Dallas Block Chain Super Conference, UFC Champion Michael Bisping.

Bisping will attend the conference with Timicoin co-founders Will Lowe, CEO and Ram Pequeno who'll introduce their mobile platform for doctors and patients to safely store and access medical records from anywhere in the world.

"As a worldwide traveler and fighter for health, I'm jumping into the blockchain ring as both an investor and believer in Timicoin, which makes storing and accessing medical records a breeze that will blow away threats like ransomware," said Bisping.

"This is the champion cryptocurrency blockchain platform because it provides such secure storage for my medical records and accessibility to them by doctors worldwide whenever I travel, which is often, so it makes perfect sense," added Bisping.

"As a fan of Michael Bisping, I felt his lifelong dedication to maintaining his health and fitness, plus all the traveling he does makes him a perfect champion of Timicoin and a credible advocate of our novel use of breakthrough technology," said Lowe.

Bisping, a mixed martial artist and actor, fights in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), and is a former UFC Middleweight Champion.

The Timicoin solution is exciting because all doctors and patients will now have full access to all their medical records at their fingertips. The travel and tourism industry also should champion Timicoin as it will raise traveler's comfort levels knowing medical records will always be accessible anywhere.

"Timicoin can be lifesaving as it provides medical information in a few clicks, creating a sense of comfort for tourists who can quickly access their medical history from anywhere," said Bisping.

Timicoin comes at a time healthcare is shifting towards a digital transformation with companies like Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway and JPMorgan Chase planning to disrupt with their own solution for an industry reeling from inefficiencies created by a web of doctors, hospitals, insurers and pharmaceutical companies.

As each new technology is prone to cyberattack, Timicoin has patent-pending solutions securing patient data, while providing unprecedented portability.

Media contact, Rebecca Shpektor 561-750-9800 x2220; [email protected]

SOURCE Timicoin

Related Links

http://www.timicoin.io

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC (Upsher-Smith) and the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA) are proud to honor the 2017 NASPA Excellence in Innovation Award recipients. Forty-five pharmacists across the nation were recognized during 2017 for their outstanding contributions to the profession of pharmacy. The annual award is coordinated by NASPA and sponsored by Upsher-Smith.

The Excellence in Innovation Award recognizes pharmacists who have demonstrated significant innovation in their practice, method, or service directly or indirectly resulting in improved patient care and/or advancement of the profession of pharmacy. The award is presented by participating state pharmacist associations.

"Upsher-Smith is proud to be a continued sponsor of NASPA's Excellence in Innovation Award," said Rusty Field, President and CEO, Upsher-Smith Laboratories. "We are honored to give recognition to these awardees that have demonstrated innovation in the pharmacy profession and advanced patient care. Upsher-Smith shares these values and understands the critical role pharmacy plays in improving the health and lives of patients."

State honorees received their award from participating state pharmacist associations during separate award ceremonies throughout 2017. The recipients include:

Alabama : Patrick Devereux , PharmD

: , PharmD Alaska : Karen Thompson , PharmD

: , PharmD Arizona : Alyssa M. Peckham , PharmD, BCPP

: , PharmD, BCPP Arkansas : Jody Smotherman , PharmD

: , PharmD California : Christine Givant , RPh

: , RPh Colorado : Paul B. Shaw , PharmD, BCPS

: , PharmD, BCPS Connecticut : Ellen Jones , PharmD, CACP

: , PharmD, CACP Delaware : Stephanie Pro , PharmD, AAHIVP

: , PharmD, AAHIVP Florida : Damien D. Simmons , PharmD

: , PharmD Georgia : Jennifer Shannon , PharmD, BCPS

: , PharmD, BCPS Illinois : Starlin Haydon-Greatting , MS, BSPharm, CDM, FAPhA

: , MS, BSPharm, CDM, FAPhA Indiana : Carrie Morton , PharmD, MBA

: , PharmD, MBA Iowa : Jordan Schultz , PharmD, MSCS, BCACP

: , PharmD, MSCS, BCACP Kansas : Molly Aldrich , PharmD

: , PharmD Kentucky : Melanie Dicks , PharmD, BCACP

Holly Divine , PharmD, BCACP, BCGP, CDE, FAPhA

Tera McIntosh , PharmD, BCACP

: , PharmD, BCACP , PharmD, BCACP, BCGP, CDE, FAPhA , PharmD, BCACP Louisiana : Jennifer Boudreaux , RPh

: , RPh Maine : Courtney Doherty Oland , RPh, MBA

: , RPh, MBA Maryland : Neil Leikach , RPh

Dixie Leikach , RPh, MBA, FACA

: , RPh , RPh, MBA, FACA Massachusetts : Allison E. Burns , PharmD

: , PharmD Michigan : Andrew J. Reeves , RPh

: , RPh Minnesota : Anjoli Punjabi, PharmD, MPH

: Anjoli Punjabi, PharmD, MPH Mississippi : Amanda Wilburn , PharmD, CDE, CPT

: , PharmD, CDE, CPT Missouri : Stuart D. Federman , PharmD, AAHIVP

: , PharmD, AAHIVP Montana : Michael F. Bertagnolli , RPh

: , RPh New Hampshire : Eric R. Lessard , PharmD

: , PharmD New Jersey : Domenic DiPrimo , RPh

: , RPh New Mexico : Brian Hunt , PharmD

: , PharmD New York : Christopher Daly , PharmD, MBA

: , PharmD, MBA North Carolina : Robert F. Carta , BSPharm

: , BSPharm North Dakota : Briana D. Fluhrer , PharmD

: , PharmD Ohio : Erin L. Thompson , RPh, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP

: , RPh, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP Oklahoma : Travis B. Wolff , PharmD

: , PharmD Pennsylvania : Melissa Somma McGivney , PharmD, FCCP, FAPhA

: , PharmD, FCCP, FAPhA Rhode Island : Linda Rowe-Varone , PharmD, BCPP

: , PharmD, BCPP South Carolina : Deborah D. Bowers , PharmD

: , PharmD Tennessee : Philip J. Baker , PharmD

: , PharmD Virginia : Tana Kaefer , PharmD

: , PharmD Washington : Monica Graybeal , PharmD

: , PharmD Washington, DC : Carlisha Gentles , PharmD, BCPS, CDE

: , PharmD, BCPS, CDE West Virginia : Jason Turner , RPh, PharmD

: , RPh, PharmD Wisconsin : Erica Guetzlaff , PharmD

: , PharmD Wyoming : Shawn Dalton , PharmD

"We appreciate Upsher-Smith for supporting the Excellence in Innovation Award," said Rebecca Snead, Executive Vice President and CEO of NASPA. "The pharmacists honored have demonstrated exemplary professional achievements and innovation. We are proud to partner with Upsher-Smith and recognize these leaders for their commitment to advancing the pharmacy profession and improving the lives of patients across America every day."

About Upsher-Smith

Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC is a trusted U.S. pharmaceutical company that has strived to deliver quality, affordable generic medications for nearly a century. In June 2017, Upsher-Smith was acquired by Sawai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a large publicly traded generics company in Japan that had been seeking entry into the U.S. market. Upsher-Smith and Sawai share a strikingly similar family history and hold many of the same cherished goals and values most importantly, the philosophy of always putting patients first. Upsher-Smith will continue to do those things it does best, which is provide a consistent supply of quality, affordable medications and invest in its historically strong industry relationships. Ultimately, Upsher-Smith believes the acquisition by Sawai represents a tremendous opportunity to leverage each company for growth worldwide and embark together on an exciting new chapter in generics. For more information, visit www.upsher-smith.com.

About the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations

The National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA), founded in 1927 as the National Council of State Pharmacy Association Executives, is dedicated to enhancing the success of state pharmacy associations in their efforts to advance the profession of pharmacy. NASPA's membership is comprised of state pharmacy associations and over 70 other stakeholder organizations. NASPA promotes leadership, sharing, learning, and policy exchange among its members and pharmacy leaders nationwide. For more information, please visit the NASPA Web site www.naspa.us.

113147.01

SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC

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Applications and search parameters are outlined on UU.Usdan.org . The deadline is midnight on March 12 th . Up to 10 young artists will receive full seven-week scholarships to Usdan for the Summer 2018 season, including tuition and transportation from across New York City, Long Island or southern Westchester.

"In honor of our 50th anniversary  and inspired by this commitment to supporting creativity and arts education for young people across New York and Long Island, we're thrilled to launch 'Uniquely U'," says Lauren Brandt Schloss, Executive Director of Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts. "We want kids to share with us their unique perspectives and voices with regard to art, creation, and connection."

About Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2018, Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts (usdan.org) is the nation's preeminent not-for-profit day camp for the arts and has been named a "Best Of" camp by TimeOutNY/Kids, and by NY Metro Parents. Diverse and playfully rigorous from the start, Usdan brings world-class teachers and visiting artists  actors, directors, playwrights, painters, sculptors, musicians, composers, dancers, poets and novelists  to teach and collaborate with Usdan campers ages 4 to 18. Usdan ignites each child's artistic spirit in a fun, welcoming environment. We believe art making is brave making, friend making, freedom making and future making.

Usdan is an agency of the UJA-Federation of New York. All programs will take place at the camp's magnificent 140-acre woodland campus, located at 185 Colonial Springs Road in Wheatley Heights, NY 11798.

SOURCE Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

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"PenFed's heritage is rooted in serving those who serve our nation," said James Schenck, President and CEO, PenFed Credit Union. "Matt brings extensive business development experience and a broad network of relationships within PenFed's core membership in the defense community and federal agencies. With his impressive career in public service, executive leadership roles in corporate America and service in the U.S. Army, Matt possesses proven capabilities to drive strategic business results and help us expand our reach within our core membership communities. I look forward to having Matt on our leadership team."

Mr. Collier joins PenFed from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs where he served as Senior Advisor to the Secretary. Among his many accomplishments was the development and launch of the VA Center for Strategic Partnerships with the purpose of developing sustainable partnerships to improve the lives of veterans and their families.

During his more than 30-year career, Mr. Collier served as President and Chief Executive of publicly traded and privately held companies in the technology and software industries where he consistently grew sales, achieving significant revenue gains and business profitability. Following his service as an Infantry Officer in the United States Army, Mr. Collier served as Chief of Staff for a Member of Congress and was then elected Mayor and Chief Executive Officer of the City of Flint, Michigan.

Mr. Collier will report to Shashi Vohra, Executive Vice President, President of Affiliated Business, PenFed Credit Union. "We are thrilled to welcome Matt to PenFed. PenFed is proud to partner with companies and associations that do business within the defense and federal government communities. Through his relationships and experience, Matt will enable us to expand our value proposition of membership to more people within those eligible communities," said Mr. Vohra.

Mr. Collier is a graduate of The United States Military Academy at West Point and holds a Master of Public Administration Degree from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

To learn more about PenFed and membership eligibility, visit PenFed.org.

About PenFed Credit Union

Established in 1935 as the War Department Credit Union, PenFed Credit Union is America's second-largest federal credit union, serving over 1.6 million members worldwide with $23 billion in assets. Our long-standing mission has been to provide superior financial services in a cost-effective manner, while being responsive to members' needs. PenFed Credit Union offers market-leading mortgages, automobile loans, credit cards, student loans, checking, certificates, and a wide range of other financial services with members' interests always in mind. PenFed Credit Union serves a diverse population, and no military service is required to join. PenFed Credit Union offers many paths to membership, including numerous employee groups and association affiliations. PenFed Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an equal housing lender. To learn more about PenFed Credit Union, visit PenFed.org, like us on Facebook and follow us @PenFed on Twitter. Interested in working for PenFed? Check us out on LinkedIn. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

SOURCE PenFed Credit Union

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The Feb. 21 summit will bring together hundreds of leaders and representatives from every sector of healthcare to further adoption of models of value-based care, pricing transparency, the role of patients and providers in driving down costs, and a path forward to improving efficiencies in the healthcare system. The goal is to spotlight the best ideas, innovations and practical policy solutions that slow the unsustainable trajectory of healthcare costs in America.

"For far too long, Americans have paid too much for their healthcare and gotten too little in return," said Shelley Lyford, president and CEO of West Health. "We understand the root causes of rising healthcare costs. Now we need the courage and conviction to implement the fundamental changes required to make healthcare affordable, accessible, sustainable and quality-driven."

The U.S. spends more than any other country on healthcare, yet lags behind other developed nations in critical health outcomes including longevity, infant mortality, and overall quality of life. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), national health spending was $3.3 trillion in 2016 and accounted for 17.9 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). An estimated one in three Americans report having difficulty paying their medical bills, which are the leading cause of personal bankruptcy. Rising costs have made healthcare extremely expensive, leaving patients with less coverage, more out-of-pocket costs and rising premiums.

"We have to move beyond the politics of Washington to deliver sustainable, high quality and affordable healthcare to every American," said summit speaker Andy Slavitt, board chair of United States of Care and former Acting Administrator of CMS. "This is why I'm so pleased to join the summit and see so many healthcare and business leaders, patient advocates and former government officials, coming together to put health ahead of politics and good and common-sense ideas into action."

The Healthcare Costs Innovation Summit will be held from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2018 in the amphitheater at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. The event, which will be webcast online, is free and open to the public. Registration is required and seating is limited. For more information or to register to attend or watch online, visit http://hcidc.org/.

Other speakers at the summit include:

Elliott S. Fisher , MD, MPH, director, Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice

, MD, MPH, director, Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice Mark E. Miller , PhD, vice president of health care, Arnold Foundation

, PhD, vice president of health care, Arnold Foundation Martin Gaynor , PhD, E.J. Barone Professor of Economics and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University

, PhD, E.J. Barone Professor of Economics and Public Policy, Shelley Lyford , president and CEO, West Health

, president and CEO, West Health Tim Lash , chief strategy officer, West Health

, chief strategy officer, West Health Lewis G. Sandy , MD, executive vice president, UnitedHealth Group

, MD, executive vice president, UnitedHealth Group Mark D. Smith , MD, MBA, clinical professor of medicine, UC San Francisco

, MD, MBA, clinical professor of medicine, UC San Francisco Hoangmai Pham, MD, MPH, vice president, provider alignment solutions, Anthem

Carol Raphael , senior advisor at Manatt Health Solutions

, senior advisor at Manatt Health Solutions Seth Sternberg , co-founder and CEO, Honor

West Health will publish, distribute and support implementation of the recommendations from the summit with elected officials, policymakers, health systems, insurers and other stakeholders through an ongoing collaboration between West Health summit participants.

"The rising cost of healthcare is a major threat to our economy, our financial security and our individual health," said Tim Lash, chief strategy officer for West Health. "We have to slow the trajectory of the cost of healthcare and drive value-based, comprehensive care payment models. The time for real action is now."

Visit hcidc.org for more information and join the conversation on Twitter using #HCcosts and #HCIDC.

About West Health

Solely funded by philanthropists Gary and Mary West, West Health includes the nonprofit and nonpartisan Gary and Mary West Health Institute and Gary and Mary West Foundation in San Diego, and the Gary and Mary West Health Policy Center in Washington, D.C. These organizations are working together toward a shared mission dedicated to enabling seniors to successfully age in place with access to high-quality, affordable health and support services that preserve and protect their dignity, quality of life and independence. For more information, visit westhealth.org and follow @westhealth.

SOURCE West Health

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In its FY 2019 budget released today, the White House proposed eliminating the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and hundreds of millions of dollars dedicated to America's libraries through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). The decision echoes the FY 2018 proposal, which also eliminated the grant-making agency and its programs. The administration's budget also calls for elimination and/or severe cuts to many other federal programs that support libraries, including Innovative Approaches to Literacy, a Department of Education program.

The following statement was made by ALA President Jim Neal:

"The administration's FY2019 budget is out of touch with the real needs of Americans and the priorities of leaders in Congress who represent them. The president miscalculates the value of more than 120,000 libraries across America, just as he did in his FY2018 budget proposal.

"There is bipartisan support for libraries in Congress, where decision-makers know that to cut funding for libraries is to undercut opportunity for their constituents.

"Thanks to its Grants to States program, IMLS funding provides services that benefit everyone in our communities, including:

Veterans in California who receive assistance claiming well-earned benefits to further their education, get medical treatment, start a business and transition to civilian life.

who receive assistance claiming well-earned benefits to further their education, get medical treatment, start a business and transition to civilian life. Students in Arkansas who prepare for today's competitive job market by participating in coding classes taught by trained school and public librarians.

who prepare for today's competitive job market by participating in coding classes taught by trained school and public librarians. Entrepreneurs in rural North Carolina who received business development assistance from an IMLS-funded business and technology outreach librarian.

who received business development assistance from an IMLS-funded business and technology outreach librarian. Adults in Kansas who take GED courses and use otherwise cost-prohibitive exam preparation tools to advance their education and improve career prospects.

"This administration's new budget also decreases resources for children. Cutting federal support for programs like Innovative Approaches to Literacy comes at the cost of early literacy and improved student achievement, especially in the most underserved areas of our nation.

"Withholding federal support for libraries means withholding services that foster achievement, develop the workforce and contribute to local economies. ALA members will continue to highlight the value of libraries to our elected leaders in every U.S. congressional district. And we are confident that our congressional leaders will continue to protect the federal programs that invest in our communities."

SOURCE American Library Association

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WALNUT CREEK, Calif., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- YapStone, a leader in global payments for large marketplaces, announced the first closing in a Series C funding round, raising $71 million. Premji Invest led the round and was joined by several high-profile investors, including Mastercard and existing investors, Accel and Meritech Capital Partners.

"YapStone has grown over 35 percent annually for the past decade and 2017's growth was exceptional," says Tom Villante, Co-Founder and CEO of YapStone. "This funding will help us grow our leadership position in serving global marketplaces and software companies, utilizing new technologies in expanded geographies."

YapStone's growing portfolio of impactful payment-based products has driven strong growth among enterprise customers, particularly in the explosive sharing economy marketplace space. This latest funding round will give YapStone the flexibility to significantly expand its innovative product offering, greatly broaden its geographic footprint and allow the company to aggressively pursue mergers and acquisitions to accelerate growth.

"Premji invests in private companies with all the right ingredients to become thriving public companies," says Sandesh Patnam, Lead U.S. Partner at Premji Invest. "YapStone's comprehensive approach to payments makes this investment very exciting to us and we look forward to significant acceleration in the coming years."

YapStone's configurable payment features enable marketplace and software customers to monetize transactions flowing through their platforms and improve conversion while minimizing capital and operational expense. Customers can auto on-board in seconds and take advantage of the company's full range of payment methods for consumers, flexible global payouts to merchants, instant and deferred funding, and sophisticated split payments functionality.

Financial Technology Partners LP and FTP Securities LLC (together "FT Partners") served as exclusive strategic and financial advisor to YapStone on this transaction.

For more information about YapStone, visit www.YapStone.com.

About YapStone:

YapStone is a provider of online and mobile payment solutions for global marketplaces, software, and large vertical markets, powering electronic payments for sharing economy marketplaces, such as HomeAway and VRBO, and thousands of apartment and vacation rental companies, homeowners' associations, self-storage companies, and many other markets.

YapStone processes over $18B in payment volume annually and has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of Fastest-Growing Private Companies for ten consecutive years, as well as San Francisco Bay Area's Best and Brightest Company to Work For by the National Association for Business Resources.

The company has raised over $180 million from investors including Premji Invest, Accel, Meritech Capital and Bregal Sagemount. Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, YapStone has additional offices in Santa Monica, California, Austin, Texas, and Ireland.

Press Contact:

M. Reynolds Media

[email protected]

SOURCE YapStone

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The auction of a two-storey, three-bedroom Richmond townhouse - set inside Channel 9s former Melbourne television studios - failed to draw more than a curious audience, with the offering passed in on a $1.85 million vendor bid.

But Melbourne regained its mantle as the hottest auction market, when some 72.5 per cent of the 520 reported auctions sold, followed by Adelaide at 68.9 per cent.

The Richmond offering (pictured above) comes with a $1.95 million asking price having been listed by the boss of First National Real Estate, Ray Ellis.

The townhouse with soaring ceilings was bought by Ellis at $1,725,000 in 2014.

Originally built in the 1900's by the Wertheim Piano manufacturers, it went on to become the Heinz soup factory before General Televsion Corporation bought the site in 1955.

The Herald Sun reported former Hey Hey Its Saturday star John Blackman was among the onlookers, having worked in the building.

The residential conversion of the former television studio lot was undertaken by Lend Lease as part of the $400 million housing village, dubbed Studio Nine. The offering sits directly under the Television City sign etched onto the front red brick facade on the tree-lined Bendigo Street.

Jellis Craig auctioneer Jonathon ODonoghue placed two vendor bids before the property passed in at $1.85 million.Every time there is a sharemarket rout, the property market gathers momentum as nervous investors seek alternate investments.

So the wobbly Sydney property market might benefit from share investors who don't like the dynamic downturn emerging on local share markets coming out of the United States.

Our shares went down around 3 percent in day last week. It has taken about eight months for Sydney prices to do that, according to CoreLogic, with the median Sydney dwelling down around 3 percent to $884,000.

Last July marked the fifth anniversary of the housing market growth phase, which yes has petered out, but is still up slightly on the latest February annualised data.

At the end of the day property investors still have their bricks and mortar to drive past and admire.

The Reserve Bank of Australia held rates again at its meeting last week, though lenders continue to make their own moves, both up and down.

The central bank's last move saw it go to 1.5 percent at the August 2016 meeting, so rates have been held steady over three years and for 17 meetings.

It is the longest run of steady rates ever. There were 16 meetings (inclusive) between their August 2013 meeting and December 2014 where they held at 2.5 percent. There was another run of 16 meetings between July 2002 and October 2003 where rates were held at 4.75 percent.

Almost all economists predicted a hold at the first meeting of the year and most don't foresee any change throughout much of 2018.The queen of the track, Angela Belle McSweeney, has listed her Rose Bay home after five decades of family ownership.

The Australian Turf Club director with a taste for bubbles is seeking $6.6 million through Gavin Rubinstein at Ray White Double Bay.

The homes interior is filled with memorabilia that highlights her remarkable horseracing bloodlines.

Angelas late father, Tony McSweeney, the prominent horse owner and former chair of Tattersalls Club , paid 29,000 for the house in 1965.

Her grandfather, Pat Nailon, was a leading trainer for several decades from the 1920s.

McSweeney, who had her first trackside glass of Dom Perignon aged 13 at Chantilly Racecourse near Paris, was a model and successful businesswoman.

She helped to introduce fashions on the field in NSW in the early 1980s.

Her then-husband John Needham pioneered the Magic Millions concept in the late-1980s.

Her campaign in late-2016 to join the board of the Turf Club secured support from trainer Gai Waterhouse, Alan Jones, Melissa Hoyer and Ray Hadley.

Longtime racing writers Ray Thomas and Max Presnell also backed her candidacy.

McSweeney, who has been working on a self-help empowerment book, will be downsizing after the February 22 auction.

Much of her time  and Instragam posts  centres on her daughter Juliet Love and her husband Charlie Albone, a landscape designer from Foxtels Selling Houses Australia.

McSweeney dotes on their two children, Leo, 5, and Hartford, 3.

She recently recalled how often the Tivoli Ave home was awash with champagne.

Her mothers friends would arrive on race days to have champagne before leaving for the track.

It was like a movie, McSweeney told the Wentworth Courier. Everyone was in high heels  thats probably why Im so mad on shoes.

Her public relations company, Angela Belle McSweeney Internazionale, has for 25 years specialised in luxury brands including Tiffany & Co, Mercedes-Benz, Versace and Veuve Clicquot.

McSweeney has been a part-owner and manager of more than 60 thoroughbred horses through the decades, including the Magic Millions winner Our Horizon in 1990 and the Golden Nugget 1992 winner My Marilyn, whose blonde mane and tail reminded her of film star Marilyn Monroe.

This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  Purdue University will celebrate the Chinese New Year on Feb. 15 in the Purdue Memorial Unions South Ballroom with refreshments, performances and activities such as calligraphy and lantern-making.

Wei Hong, professor of Chinese and Asian studies, says this years Chinese New Year will celebrate the Year of the Dog, which symbolizes a hardworking, honest and loyal generation.

People born in this year might be symbolized by the traits of a dog, said Hong, who is also associate dean in the College of Liberal Arts and director of the Confucius Institute at Purdue. Dog is active and hes hardworking. He wants to make sure everybody is well-attended, and dog is also modest. He doesnt want to brag but he wants work done, and hes social, as well.

Celebrating Chinese New Year in the Greater Lafayette community presents an opportunity of experiencing new cultures and traditions, Hong said.

The Lunar New Year is the most celebrated festival in China and has also been celebrated in the United States and the rest of the world, Hong said. Through holidays and festivals, we are learning from each other with appreciation.

Purdues Chinese New Year celebration, which is free and open to the public, will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

While the students from China and from other countries are learning about American culture, we are proud to present this festivity to all who are interested in learning more about China and its traditions. Wei Hong said.

Undergraduate student Erik Stewart, who is helping plan the event, lived in Shanghai, China, for two years during his childhood before coming to Purdue, where he is minoring in Chinese language.

Everyone has their own circle or bubble of friends, and they dont interact too much with people of other cultures, he said. Its important for more American students to learn about Chinese culture, considering theres such a large Chinese population here.

Writer: Joseph Paul, 765-494-9541, paul102@purdue.edu

Sources: Wei Hong, 765-494-3859, hongwei@purdue.edu

Erik Stewart, stewa138@purdue.eduGran Cine, Olympusats contemporary US Spanish-language network, will feature the network premiere of six films throughout the month of February, including the star-packed Mexican comedy 7 Dias starring household names including Jaime Camil, Beto Cuevas and Sofia Vergara.





As part of Gran Cines ongoing commitment to support and promote high-quality Hispanic cinema, this month we have put together a powerful collection of films from Argentina, Mexico and Spain, said Jesus Pinango, director, TV content strategy, Olympusat Mexican film 7 Dias follows Claudio, who has only seven days to organise a huge concert featuring one of the worlds biggest bands, U2. However, failing to bring the iconic band to Monterrey could cost him his life.Other films to premiere in the month are Inocente, from Spain. In the midst of a controversial war against terrorism, the Spanish government detained four Spaniards and a Pakistani, accusing them of being members of a financial cell of Al Qaeda in Europe. Soon after the arrest, three of the individuals were released without charges, but Kike and Pakistani citizen werent as lucky.Also from Spain, Amor Toxico is an unconventional romantic comedy that follows the story of Toni and Irene, two young adults who go out on a date. During their encounter, both of their personalities come afloat, resulting in a deep conversation about sex, attraction and the dysfunctionality of love. And in Reverso, Alex and Marcos, two brothers who havent seen each other in years, hide a very dangerous secret. A deadly game that almost killed Alex the last time both brothers were together. However, fear is not an option as they are both seeking revenge.And finally, in Argentinas Corazon Muerto, after pulling an easy kidnap, two men are waiting for further instructions inside an abandoned factory located on the outskirts of the city. Hoping to bring home a big ransom, both men are clueless about the big danger that haunts them.Qatar has expressed interest in purchasing an advanced Russian missile defense system, the S-400. The purchase is controversial and would antagonize the United States, which has found it increasingly difficult to hold the line against Russias growing influence in the Middle East.

The S-400, a surface to air missile system that rivals Raytheons Patriot, has cropped up across the region, as Russia works to restore its role as a powerbroker in the Middle East. Russia has deployed the S-400 to Syria and announced potential sales to Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and now Qatar. Over a 400 km range, the system can engage six targets simultaneously and track 100, posing an unprecedented risk to American air operations. The system is road mobile and rapidly deployable, making it difficult to locate and disrupt. So far, the United States has done little to prevent the proliferation of these dangerous Russian weapons.

Qatar likely views the S-400 acquisition as a means of generating goodwill in Moscow. Many of Qatars procurement decisions are based on their potential for strengthening alliances, not operational efficacy. For example, Qatar is now in the process of buying multi-role fighters from France, Britain, and the United States, even though it would be far more efficient to buy only one type. In practice, purchasing all three will triple the training and maintenance burden for a marginal difference in capability. So while operating both the Patriot, which is slated for sale to Qatar and the S-400 does not make operational sense, it contributes to the tiny emirates alliances and prestige.

While pursuing a relationship with Russia, Qatar is also relying on the United States to repair its severely damaged relations with the other Arab Gulf states. Qatar has been at odds with its neighbors since at least 2011, when Doha and its media arm, Al Jazeera, lent their support to the Arab Spring uprisings that year, even when Islamists gained power. Recently, other Gulf states have accused Qatar of supporting terrorism and aligning with Iran. Relations worsened this summer, as Saudi Arabia, the Emirates, and others launched a blockade on Qatar. Qatars economy has suffered, requiring a $34 billion injection from the government to keep it afloat. By Qatars own estimation, American engagement is the surest path towards undoing the damage. On a recent trip to Washington, Qatars Defense Minister said The only one who can solve the GCC [Gulf Cooperation Council] issue is President Trump. He can solve it in a phone call.

To this end, Qatar has been eager to improve its American relations. Since the blockade began, Qatar has spent over $5 million on public relations and hired seven U.S. lobbying firms. Doha has also made some notable concessions. For example, it has finally agreed to disclose the finances of its state-owned airline, leveling the field for American carriers. In an attempt to curry favor with the American military, Qatar is improving family facilities at al-Udeid, a sprawling air base that supports coalition airpower in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan.

Qatars tolerance for terror financing, however, continues to weaken its relationship with the United States. Since the blockade began, Qatar has made cosmetic improvements; it has participated in at least three major bilateral talks on the subject, culminating in a counterterrorism dialogue in early November. But Doha needs to make verifiable changes to improve its troubling record.

To some extent, Qatars efforts seem to be working. At the end of January, Secretary Tillerson and Secretary Mattis hosted the inaugural U.S.-Qatar strategic dialogue in Washington, a sign of improving relations.

But Doha is not out of the woods yet. The Saudi-led blockade continues, and Qatar remains too isolated to successfully engage both the United States and Russia. Although the United States has failed to counter growing Russia regional influence until now, Qatar is misreading its hand. Qatar, already on rocky footing in its relationship with the United States, risks isolating itself further with its embrace of Moscow.

The United States must push back on Russias malign regional role, and Qatar is a low-cost arena in which to do so. Qatar is eager to regain American favor and has already made notable concessions, to which Washington should add abandoning the S-400 sale.

Alexandra Gutowski is a senior military affairs analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington-based nonpartisan research institute focused on national security and foreign policy.In recent days, news has emerged of potential plans for a military parade in the style of Frances annual Bastille Day defile. Perhaps the spectacle of the French military parading through Paris inspired our Commander-in-Chief to investigate the possibility of a similar event here.

As an active duty officer in a sea command, I ask you, as my appointed leadership, to respectfully decline this request.

Our fleet faces a readiness crisis. Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer has said that every readiness question must start with the mention of our 17 dead shipmates on the USS John S. McCain (DDG-56) and Fitzgerald (DDG-62), and this proposed movement of people, parts, and equipment must be considered through the same lens. Our reasons for rejecting this proposal fall into three categories: The fiscal, the material, and the philosophical.[1]

Fiscally, this undertaking will require hours of labor and planning, distracting staff personnel from their assigned duties in a time of war. Our ships at sea and our aircraft above them are carrying strike power to the enemy; this must be the focus of our fleet, whether on the sharp end of the spear in Bahrain, or as the whetstone in Washington or Millington. From the Pentagon to local commands, people will be diverted from the mission of manning, training, and equipping forces for combat to scrounging enough bodies to present a pretty picture on Pennsylvania Avenue.

For the past several years, the U.S. military has operated through sequestration and without a budget under continuing resolutions; the money to pay to move people and aircraft to Washington, D.C., likely will come from command budgets already stretched thin.

The second reason to oppose any suggestion of a parade is materiel. Although our fleet will be saved from having to move ships to Washington, its reasonable to assume that there will be a requirement for Navy aircraft in addition to personnel and other equipment. This at a time when fleet aircraft readiness is at an abhorrent low.[2]

To remove assets required for training in order to conduct a flyover is an irresponsible use of our countrys limited assets. Furthermore, our Marine Corps brothers and sisters suffer similar problems with aircraft readiness and would have the added burden of moving vehicles to Washington. Is moving a platoon of Abrams tanks to roll through D.C. really the best use of those assets?

The third reason to oppose this proposal is a matter of philosophy. We are the guardians of a free people; we are volunteer citizen-sailors who have willingly taken on the burden of defending our great nation. Our military already occupies a place of honor and trust.[3]

I have witnessed more than one Bastille Day parade. The parade, for all its pomp, is a military appreciation event for a French populace that consigns the Armees to the margins. French military personnel do not give their names in media interviews from operational security concerns. Since World War II, the French people have seen their military capitulate to Germany, attempt a near-coup in Algeria, and police their own streets in full combat uniform. Although I love our great ally and her people, it is no wonder that the French government seeks to reassure les Francais with a grand parade. In America, we should have no need of such a display, and long may it be so.

The flamboyant military parades of the Soviet Union, North Korea, and China are better left to those nations who must remind their citizens of the sword ready to inflict wounds on a restless populace, not to the military of a free and independent people. How much better to live in a nation where parades are made of beauty queens, civic organizations, and high school marching bands? Those civilian representations of our freedom are guarded by a band of quiet professionals, the big stick that will march to the sound of the guns, not one that will trumpet its own accomplishments in the capital city.

Furthermore, our work is not complete. After 16 years of continuous war, our military is not in a place to ask for a ticker-tape parade or the glimmer of sunshine on bayonets through Washington. We have work still before us, and until our shipmates are home from Iraq and Afghanistan, we should humbly execute the mission weve been assigned.

I will obey the orders of the Commander-in-Chief and the orders of my seniors in accordance with the oath I swore. That includes participating in any parade ordered by our President. But I ask that Secretary Spencer and Chief of Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson say no to any proposed parade. It is too expensive, too draining on our people and equipment, and unfitting of the military of a free people.

Lieutenant Commander Neptunius is an officer on active duty in the U.S. Navy.

This article appeared originally at the U.S. Naval Institute Blog.

Endnotes

[1] Sydney J. Freedberg,Jr., Overburdened Navy Must Just Say No: Spencer, Breaking Defense (September 20, 2017) https://breakingdefense.com/2017/09/overburdened-navy-must-just-say-no-spencer/.

[2] Hope Hodge Seck, Navy Cutting Maintenance, Cannibalizing Planes Amid Readiness Crisis, DoD Buzz (November 9 2017), https://www.military.com/dodbuzz/2017/11/09/navy-cutting-maintenance-cannibalizing-planes-amid-readiness-crisis.

[3] Gallups 2017 poll of American institutions shows that 72% of the American people have either A Great Deal or Quite A Lot of trust in the US military, see: http://news.gallup.com/poll/1597/confidence-institutions.aspxTwo weekends ago, a Taliban bombing killed more than 100 and injured over 200 more in Afghanistan. The bombing took place in the heart of Kabul in an area considered among the countrys most secure. Along with a recent flurry of terrorist violence, the attack demonstrates the magnitude of the challenges facing the coalition effort in Afghanistan.

When he announced a new way forward in South Asia, the President made clear that he was going against his initial instincts to withdraw American forces. Instead, after listening to his senior advisors and military leaders, he decided to modestly expand our footprint in the country. In light of the Presidents reservations, this may be our last chance to get Afghanistan right. Seventeen years into the longest war in our nations history, we still have enduring interests in South Asiabut securing them requires an honest look at our goals and the resources we are willing to spend in pursuit of those goals.

I had the opportunity to visit Afghanistan with a bipartisan Congressional delegation over the Christmas holiday. On the positive side, the new South Asia Strategy has renewed optimism among Afghanistans leaders, many of whom feared that we might abandon their country. I was moved to hear that when Vice President Pence told Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah that we would only withdraw forces based on conditions on the groundnot arbitrary timelinesthe two political rivals embraced and began to cry. It reminded me that these decisions, while difficult for us, are often existential for our allies.

Afghan leadership also seems to welcome the strategys focus on Pakistans destabilizing influence in Afghanistan. As one official put it, if our efforts in Afghanistan are like filling a sink, Pakistan is the plug. We were told that while 90% of insurgencies fail, those that succeed do so because they have external support and safe havens. At the same time, working to restrain Pakistans support for radical groups in Afghanistan is not exactly a new idea. The jury is out whether the new strategy will result in markedly better Pakistani behavior, or perhaps backfire and throw Pakistan further into Chinas orbit.

The new strategy has led to optimismand unanswered questionson other fronts as well. By adopting looser rules of engagement and delegating decision-making authority down the chain of command, the military has increased the tempo of their operations, serving as a force multiplier for the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) who are doing most of the fighting on the ground. Though many officials spoke positively about improving ANSF battlefield prowess (particularly their special forces equivalent), they also noted the crucial forthcoming deployment of a new American Security Force Assistance Brigade of about 1,000 military advisors. These advisors will embed with Afghan security forces at remote locations across the country to increase their capabilities before the next fighting season.

Unfortunately, behind even this good news is an example of the challenges facing our efforts in Afghanistan. Recent reports indicate that the military advisor units are short-staffed and will be deploying without their full training regimen. The Pentagon cut training for the Security Force Assistance Brigade from 12 months to 8 and cut an additional Army course for combat advisors from 6 weeks to 2. Given that these advisors are a lynchpin of our new strategy, their abbreviated training is troubling.

The advisors will have their work cut out for them because the Taliban has expanded areas under its control over the last two years. According to some estimates, the Taliban controls or contests about 41% of the country, up from only 21% in 2016 and 18% in 2015. At the same time, Taliban forces are growing, with an estimated 60,000 fighters now compared to only about 20,000 just four years ago.

Even if the ANSF, backed by U.S.-led coalition forces, are able to reverse this trend, regain ground, and establish operational control of most of the country, this merely gives Afghanistans political leaders an opportunity to make lasting political reforms. Without responsible governance and economic growthgrowth that does not come from the rampant drug tradeany security gains will be temporary and tenuous at best. Consequently, we must continue to assist the fledgling Afghan state while focusing on counter-corruption programs to ensure dollars spent on reconstruction reach their intended destination.

Unfortunately, a recent quarterly report from the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) revealed a disturbing new lapse in transparency. For the past two years, SIGAR has publicly reported data on Taliban control and influence in Afghanistan on a district-level basis. In its January 2018 report, however, SIGAR states that it was directed by DoD not to release these figures to the public. As the report notes, "This is the first time SIGAR has been specifically instructed not to release information marked 'unclassified' to the American taxpayer. While DoD hastily replied that the issue with SIGAR resulted from a clerical error, and subsequently released the relevant numbers, the episode raises questions about the transparency and efficacy of our efforts.

Now is the time to be honest about what we are trying to achieve in Afghanistan, what it will cost, how we measure progress on the ground, and how this will be different from the last 17 years. And beyond the importance of denying terrorist safe haven in Afghanistan, we must also emphasize the geopolitical importance of establishing a foothold in Central Asia at a time of increasing great power competition. Here Congress has a critical role to playconducting robust oversight to make sure we are reinforcing success, and we are not funding failure. This will not be easy, and the American people will not tolerate an endless war in Afghanistan. But we have a chance to get it right. It may be the last one we get.

Rep. Mike Gallagher is a Marine Veteran representing Wisconsin's 8th District. He currently serves on the House Armed Services and Homeland Security Committees.House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes next plans to investigate the role former CIA Director John Brennan and other Obama intelligence officials played in promoting the salacious and unverified Steele dossier on Donald Trump -- including whether Brennan perjured himself in public testimony about it.

In his May 2017 testimony before the intelligence panel, Brennan emphatically denied the dossier factored into the intelligence communitys publicly released conclusion last year that Russia meddled in the 2016 election "to help Trumps chances of victory.

Brennan also swore that he did not know who commissioned the anti-Trump research document (excerpt here), even though senior national security and counterintelligence officials at the Justice Department and FBI knew the previous year that the dossier was funded by the Hillary Clinton campaign.

Last week, Nunes (R-Calif.) released a declassified memo exposing surveillance abuses by the Obama DOJ and FBI in their investigation of Trumps ties to Russia. It said the agencies relied heavily on the uncorroborated dossier to take out a warrant to secretly surveil a Trump adviser in the heat of the 2016 presidential election, even though they were aware the underlying intelligence" supporting the wiretap order was political opposition research funded by Clinton allies  a material fact they concealed from FISA court judges in four separate applications.

Rep. Devin Nunes.

Nunes plans to soon release a separate report detailing the Obama State Departments role in creating and disseminating the dossier -- which has emerged as the foundation of the Obama administration's Russia collusion investigation. Among other things, the report will identify Obama-appointed diplomats who worked with partisan operatives close to Hillary Clinton to help ex-British spy Christopher Steele compile the dossier, sources say.

Those are the first two phases of Nunes' multipart inquiry, a senior investigator said. In phase three, the involvement of the intelligence community will come into sharper focus.



The aide, who spoke only on condition of anonymity, said Nunes will focus on Brennan as well as President Obamas first CIA director, Leon Panetta, along with the former presidents intelligence czar, James Clapper, and national security adviser, Susan Rice, and security adviser-turned U.N. ambassador Samantha Power, among other intelligence officials.



John Brennan did more than anyone to promulgate the dirty dossier, the investigator said. He politicized and effectively weaponized what was false intelligence against Trump.

Attempts to reach Brennan for comment were unsuccessful.



Several Capitol Hill sources say Brennan, a fiercely loyal Obama appointee, talked up the dossier to Democratic leaders, as well as the press, during the campaign. They say he also fed allegations about Trump-Russia contacts directly to the FBI, while pressuring the bureau to conduct an investigation of several Trump campaign figures starting in the summer of 2016.

Trump campaign Chairman Paul Manafort was wiretapped in addition to Trump adviser Carter Page during the campaign. (Page has not been charged with a crime. Manafort was recently indicted for financial crimes unrelated to the Moscow collusion activities alleged in the dossier.)



On Aug. 25, 2016, for example, the CIA chief gave an unusual private briefing to then-Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) in which he told Reid the Russians were backing Trump and that the FBI would have to take the lead in an investigation because the FBI is the federal agency in charge of domestic intelligence and, unlike the CIA, can spy on U.S. citizens.



Two days after Brennans special briefing, Reid fired off a letter to then-FBI Director James Comey demanding he open an investigation targeting individuals tied to Trump to determine if they coordinated with the Russian government to influence our election.



The Trump campaign has employed a number of individuals with significant and disturbing ties to Russia and the Kremlin, the then-top Democrat in the Senate added in his two-page letter.



Reid then alluded to Page as one of those compromised individuals and repeated an unproven charge from the dossier that Page had met with two Kremlin officials in Moscow in July 2016 to discuss removing U.S. sanctions on Russia. Page has repeatedly denied the allegation under oath, swearing he never even met the Russian officials named in the dossier.



Any such meetings should be investigated, Reid asserted.



Less than two months later, Comey signed an application for a surveillance warrant to monitor Pages emails, text messages, phone conversations and residence.

Christopher Steele, former British spy.

Unsatisfied with the progress of Comeys investigation, Reid released an open letter to the FBI chief in late October 2016 accusing him of sitting on evidence. Reid told Comey that from his communications with other top officials in the national security community, it has become clear that you possess explosive information about close ties and coordination between Donald Trump, his top advisers and the Russian government  a foreign interest openly hostile to the United States, which Trump praises at every opportunity.

Congressional investigators say that the "explosive information Reid referred to was the false or unverified claims in the Clinton-funded dossier -- which the sources say were passed along by Brennan. They add that Brennan gave more than one briefing.

After Trump won the election, sources say, the CIA director sought to "weaponize" the dossiers wild accusations against the president-elect.



In early January, just weeks before Trump was inaugurated, investigators say Brennan saw to it that the contents from the dossier were attached to an official daily intelligence briefing for Obama. The special classified briefing was then leaked to the major Washington media, allowing them to use the presidential briefing to justify the publication of claims they had up to that point not been able to substantiate and had been reluctant to run.



CNN broke the news that the dossier  described as classified documents  had been attached to the briefing report by the CIA, and had been given to the president. The top-level credence that the government was placing in the dossier gave prominent newspapers, including the Washington Post and New York Times, justification to follow suit.

In addition, BuzzFeed published 35 pages of the dossier in full. (The Internet news outlet was recently sued by Trump campaign lawyer Michael Cohen, whom the dossier accused of conspiring with the Kremlin to pay Russian hackers to steal Clinton campaign emails. It's one of several libel and defamation lawsuits tied to the dossier.)

At the time, the Washington Post was assured by Obama intelligence officials that "the sources involved in the [dossier's] reporting were credible enough to warrant inclusion of their claims in the highly classified [presidential] report. Months later in public testimony, however, Brennan said the dossier and its sources were not credible enough to incorporate the information in a separate January 2017 intelligence report on Russian election interference publicly released by the administration. The published unclassified version of the report nonetheless echoes the dossiers central assertion that Moscow meddled in the election to help Trump.

Brennan later swore the dossier did not in any way factor into the CIA's assessment that Russia interfered in the election to help Trump. However, congressional investigators suggest a still-classified version of the January 2017 intelligence report contradicts his claim. Also in his May 2017 testimony, Brennan swore he had no idea who commissioned the dossier.

CIA veterans say Brennan was the most politicized director in the agencys history and was responsible for much of the anti-Trump bias from the intelligence community during the campaign and transition period.



Former CIA field operations officer Gene Coyle, a 30-year agency veteran who served under Brennan, said he was "known as the greatest sycophant in the history of the CIA, and a supporter of Hillary Clinton before the election.

"I find it hard to put any real credence in anything that the man says, he added.

Coyle noted that Brennan broke with his predecessors who stayed out of elections. Several weeks before the vote, he said, Brennan made it very clear that he was a supporter of candidate Clinton, hoping he would be rewarded with being kept on in her administration. (Brennan is a liberal Democrat. In fact, at the height of the Cold War in 1976, he voted for a Communist Party candidate for president.)

Whats more, his former deputy at the CIA, Mike Morell, who formed a consulting firm with longtime Clinton aide and campaign adviser Philippe Reines, even came out in early August 2016 and publicly endorsed her in the New York Times, while claiming Trump was an unwitting agent of Moscow.

Former FBI Director James Comey.

In the intelligence business, we would say that Mr. Putin had recruited Mr. Trump as an unwitting agent of the Russian Federation, he claimed. My training as an intelligence officer taught me to call it as I see it. This is what I did for the CIA. This is what I am doing now. Our nation will be much safer with Hillary Clinton as president.

Reid repeated Morells allegation against Trump in his August 2016 letter to Comey.

Career U.S. intelligence officials say Morell, like Brennan, was personally invested in a Clinton victory.

Morell had aspirations of being CIA director if she had won, said former FBI counterintelligence official I.C. Smith, whose service overlapped with Brennans.

Investigators are trying to learn if the Clinton campaign shared, through Reines, the early memos on the dossier it was paying for with Morrell before he wrote his Times op-ed.

Morell could not be reached for comment. But he pushed back hard last week against Nunes releasing his memo exposing the FBIs reliance on the dossier for Trump wiretaps, which he argued "did not have to happen. It undermines the credibility of the FBI in the public's eyes, and with no justification in my view."

What happened here underscores the partisanship and the dysfunction of a very important committee in Congress, and that does not serve Congress well. It doesn't serve the intelligence community, and it doesn't serve the country well, Morell continued earlier this week in an interview with CBS News, where he now works as a senior national security contributor."

Sources say Brennan is aware that the House Intelligence Committee is targeting him in its wide-ranging investigation of the dossier and investigative and intelligence abuses related to it, and that Nunes plans to call him and other former Obama administration officials before the panel to question them based on newly obtained documents and information.

Last week, perhaps not coincidentally, Brennan signed a contract with NBC News and MSNBC to be their senior national security and intelligence analyst.

On Sundays Meet the Press, Brennan laced into Nunes for releasing the memo revealing FBI surveillance abuses related to the dossier, claiming the head of the intelligence panel has abused the office of the chairmanship.

It really underscores just how partisan Mr. Nunes has been, Brennan charged.

In the interview, Brennan claimed he first learned of the existence of the dossier in late summer of 2016, when there were some individuals from the various U.S. news outlets who asked me about my familiarity with it. And I had heard just snippets about it.

He further contended that he had neither seen nor read the dossier until a month after the election.

I did not know what was in there, Brennan said. "I did not see it until later in that year, I think it was in December.

Brennan also insisted he did not know who was pulling the strings on the research that went into the dossier.

"I was unaware of the provenance of it as well as what was in it, he said, and he reasserted that "it did not play any role whatsoever in the intelligence community assessment that was done.

Obamas director of national intelligence, James Clapper, is also coming under scrutiny for his role in the dossier.

He joined Brennan in giving Obama a two-page summary of the dossier memos during the presidential briefing in January 2017. Days later, Clapper expressed "profound dismay at the leaks that have been appearing in the press, and misleadingly referred to the dossier as a private security company document.

James Clapper, former director of national intelligence.

The intelligence committee plans to press Clapper to find out if he knew at the time that, in fact, the document was political opposition research underwritten by the Clinton campaign, and whether any of the leaks to the media came from his office.

I do not believe the leaks came from within the IC [intelligence community], he maintained at the time, adding that we did not rely upon [the dossier] in any way for our conclusion on Russian interference.

In October 2016, during the heat of the campaign, Clapper issued a public report declaring that Russian President Vladimir Putins regime directed the cyberattacks on Clinton campaign emails, echoing memos Steele was delivering at the time to the Clinton campaign.

A year later, after it was finally revealed in the national media that the Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee funded the research that went into the notorious dossier, Clapper insisted it "doesn't matter who paid for it.

"It's what the dossier said and the extent to which it was -- it's corroborated or not. We had some concerns about it from the standpoint of its sourcing, which we couldn't corroborate, Clapper added last October in an interview with CNN.

He went on to strongly suggest that the intelligence assessment report he issued with Brennan, which concluded the Kremlin not only hacked the Democratic campaign but did so specifically to put Trump in the White House, was based on some of the substantive content of the dossier.

"But at the same time, some of the substantive content, not all of it, but some of the substantive content of the dossier, we were able to corroborate in our Intelligence Community Assessment from other sources, which we had very high confidence of, Clapper said.

Investigators say Nunes intends to drill down on exactly who those other sources are now that his committee has learned that top officials at both the FBI and Justice Department relied on a Yahoo! News article as their additional sourcing to corroborate the dossier allegations they cited to obtain Trump campaign wiretap warrants -- even though it turns out the main source for the Yahoo! story was merely the dossiers author, Steele, who was disguised as a Western intelligence source."

Clapper, who recently signed his own media deal, joining CNN as a paid contributor, bashed Nunes on the network and suggested the release of future reports could endanger the intelligence communitys mission. He said his release of the FBI memo was political and an egregious betrayal of "others in the intelligence community who have a lot at stake here with the whole FISA [surveillance] process.Perhaps the most persistent delusion about economics is the lump of labor fallacy, the notion that the amount of work available in an economy is fixed and the more people you have, the more unemployment you have  instead of recognizing that the amount of work is not static, and people create more of it. One of the most vivid arguments against the lump of labor fallacy unfolded almost 50 years ago, when Uganda dictator Idi Amin expelled some 60,000 South Asians to ensure that the average Ugandan enjoys the wealth of his country.

Such massive dislocation of a people who had been productive residents of Uganda for decades is rightly seen as an obscene act. But to paraphrase Talleyrand, it was worse than a crime. It was a mistake. Instead of creating opportunities for Ugandans as Amin intended, the mass expulsion simply punched holes in the countrys economy  holes that have never entirely been closed. It is one of the most important reasons that Uganda became one of the poorest countries in Africa  while countries like Canada that accepted an outsized number of South Asians from Uganda have prospered.

Deep prejudice against South Asians had been simmering in Uganda for many years, as the commercial success of the minority group prompted jealousy and anger. Amins predecessor, Milton Obote, had pursued an Africanization policy that, among other discriminatory measures, included a system of work permits and trade licenses aimed at restricting the role of non-citizen Indians in economic and professional activities. But in 1971 Amin kicked the persecution up a few notches, launching a census of Ugandas Asian population and a review of their status, aimed at narrowing the wide (economic) gap between Ugandan Asians and Africans.

Even as Amin paid tribute to Indians contribution to the Ugandan economy and their out-of-proportion participation in the professions, in August 1972 he ordered the expulsion of the countrys Asian minority  giving them 90 days to leave. As one of the reasons for his expulsion order, Amin called the Ugandan Indian community, which had often been the target of resentment and violence, "bloodsuckers" who had exploited the local economy. Amin defended the expulsion by arguing that he was giving Uganda back to the ethnic Ugandans, saying: We are determined to make the ordinary Ugandan master of his own destiny, and above all to see that he enjoys the wealth of his country. Our deliberate policy is to transfer the economic control of Uganda into the hands of Ugandans, for the first time in our country's history.

In other words, Amin was trying to transfer Ugandas lump of wealth from an immigrant ethnic group to the majority. How effective was this pursuit of the lump of labor? Under the weight of the expulsion, as well as an accompanying nationalization of several key industries, the Ugandan economy fell into a deep crisis, with economic instability leading to the ballooning of an economic blackmarket economy. The sudden lack of experienced technicians and managers proved an insurmountable challenge for the Uganda Development Corporation, resulting in a restructuring, according to Uganda: A Modern History, by Jan Jelmert Jorgensen. Many African Ugandans did not like the expulsion, recognizing the Asian communitys essential role in the productive functioning of the economy. Many African Ugandans were left jobless, as the economy was thrown into disarray.

By 1987, the country had the poorest growth rate in Africa; the National Resistance Movement Party, which took office at that time, tried to address the problem by adopting free market reforms. The countrys leadership went so far as to invite the Indian expellees back, offering some incentives and compensation  but few took up the offer.

Meanwhile, the Indian communitys resettlement in other Commonwealth countries was recognized as an outstanding success  for the refugees and the countries that took them in. Canada, for example, opened its doors to some 8,000 Ugandan Indians, mostly Ismaili. In December of 1972, just after they were given refuge, approximately 3300 Ugandan Asians in Canada were receiving some form of government subsidy, but within 10 months this number had dwindled to fewer than 150. In a follow-up survey one year after the arrival of Ugandan Asians to Canada, eighty-nine percent of respondents who had wished to enter the labour force had done so, (at a time of high unemployment) and more than ninety percent planned on staying in Canada permanently. Today, the South Asian community is recognized as a major contributor to Canadas economic dynamism.

The humanitarian lesson of Amins brutal expulsion order is clear. But so is the economic lesson. Jobs are not slots that anyone can suddenly fit into. Businesses are not vessels than anyone can immediately steer. Jobs do not create prosperity, people do.It's likely that only the most hardcore Vogue readers remember itaand presumably Anna Wintour and company are hoping that even they will one day forget itabut back in 2011, the venerable fashion magazine posted a glowing profile of Asma al-Assad. Yes, that Asma al-Assad: the wife of the Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, who has murdered hundreds of thousands of peoplealargely civilians, and some by chemical weaponsaover the past several years while stamping out a rebellion. Even worse, as leaked emails later showed, Asma herself cheered along the slaughter; she was no mere bystander. Shortly after publication, however, A Rose in the Desert disappeared. (It's available now thanks only to the Wayback Machine.)While in London last week, visiting the UK to address the Oxford, Durham and Cambridge Unions about Donald Trumps improbable 2016 victory and the outlook for his presidency, I visited the tiny Ecuadoran Embassy where journalist Julian Assange has been effectively imprisoned for nearly SIX years, under siege from vindictive state intelligence forces.House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) announced last week that the next phase of his investigation of the events that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert S. Mueller III will focus on the State Department. His apparent area of interest is my relationship with former British intelligence professional Christopher Steele and my role in material that Steele ultimately shared with the FBI.The Balkans have recently seen a spike in Chinese investment activity similar to that being witnessed across Central Asia and Central and South America. While concerns about the geopolitical implications of this new trend are legitimate, all strategic calculations need to take into account the kind of influence an investment portfolio can buy, as well as the behavioral pattern of the investor and the investment recipient that is known from the past.

Chinese investment activity in the Balkans is a recent phenomenon. Its origins can be traced back to the 2007 financial crisis and the need of governments in the region to offset a sudden region-wide drop in Western financial activity with alternative sources of funding. The Chinese investments of what has so far been close to 6 billion have exclusively been taking the form of infrastructure loans and acquisitions. Their concentration is on a north-south axis, connecting the ports in Greece and Montenegro through highway and railway developments in Macedonia, Serbia and Hungary to Europe. Their impact is complementary to European and Turkish infrastructure investment on the west-east axis, which is connecting Albania, Bosnia, and Kosovo to the very same highway and railway system. All are aligned with Chinas Belt and Road Initiative and regional development strategies that leverage competitive labor costs and proximity to the European market to benefit from the shift to agile manufacturing.

The fact that Chinese investment activity is almost exclusively focused on infrastructure makes it less problematic than it might be otherwise. Infrastructure investment is primarily used for gaining access to the markets, rather than obtaining geopolitical leverage. Such investment in the Balkans will give Chinese manufacturing another route to Europe, with Chinese construction gaining an impressive portfolio of European standard projects with which to compete afterwards. As far as Chinese loans are concerned, these do buy influence for their duration, but in the European theatre, they can be restructured with the help of the European Investment Bank, if circumstances ever make such a move geopolitically expedient. Where the situation does get more complicated is in foreign direct investment into the real economy. This is where investors do get more of an influence on national politics with the alignment of their interests with those of their workforce and their ability to impact tax receipts through shifts in volumes of output. Fortunately, such type of Chinese investment in the Balkans is very low and limited to the Piraeus Port in Greece of 100 million for 35 years and the Smederevo Steel Mill in Serbia of 46 million, which is minuscule in comparison to foreign direct investment from Europe, which only in Serbia accounts for three quarters of all such investment to date or 15.5 billion.

The final points to consider when looking at geopolitical implications of a new actor in a region are behavioral patterns. The Balkans have a long history of effectively balancing between great powers to advance national interests. The entire region won its independence from the Ottoman and Habsburg empires by playing different alliances off each other throughout the 19th and early 20th century. The Cold War saw Albania and Yugoslavia maintain their independence from the Soviet Union through the formers close relationship with China and the latters co-founding of the Non-Aligned Movement, while Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania secured a high degree of autonomy within the Soviet Block out of Soviet fear of losing the three to Yugoslavias pull. At the same time, Greece benefited heavily from Western assistance, as the only country in the region that remained firmly in the Western camp. In the post-Cold-War period, the entire region profited from Western concerns about Russias resurgence and secured faster integration into NATO and the European Union. It is very likely that the same will now be true for the remaining few countries negotiating to join the Union, if not NATO as concerns about Russia and now China keep the process on track despite the growing fatigue on both sides.* An alternative course for any of these countries is highly unlikely given how dependent they are on exports to Europe for growth.

Concerning China, little is known yet about how this global actor may eventually behave in its new role as a foreign investor. What is known is that Chinese investment is conditional on support for the One-China Policy and could potentially carry some conditionality with regards to the East and South China Sea, but it does not do so at the moment. Chinese loans are most affordable if they employ Chinese companies in loan-related activities, and the workers in these companies tend to stay after the projects are complete. The most worrisome is that the loans do not come with any good governance conditionality, but in the case of the Balkans, this does not diminish the European Unions ability to insist on such standards being met through the accession process. Beyond that, everything else is still an unknown, including whether China would ever use its leverage to resolve other regions issues or shape the world in its own mold. The fact that there is little proof of either justifies contingency planning and vigilance, but not much more.

The German Marshall Fund of the United States, with its Europe Program, the Future of Geopolitics, and Asia Program, will continue to monitor developments on the ground and convene Western and Chinese leaders to make sure that synchronicity of development efforts continues into the future. Our Balkan Trust for Democracy will maintain its support for civil society in the region to stay watchful for all risks to good governance including those that may come with Chinese investments. That said, it would be unrealistic to expect any region in need of infrastructure development to disregard the opportunity of securing affordable loans from China, especially when alternatives are scarce and everyone else is borrowing from the very same source for their deficit spending. The Balkans are no exception, but they are also entirely dependent on access to the European market for their economic growth. The West should therefore not worry about ever losing its influence in the region, but should rather double down on finishing the process of integration, so that those parts outside the Union can finally benefit from greater European investment.

*Serbia is interested in the European Union membership only at the moment, because of its complicated history with NATO. Military collaboration is strong, though.Just outside of Athens in the town of Bogart lies a 98-acre property, most of which is untouched woods, called Earthsong. The first thing one TORRINGTON  U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty, D-5, recently introduced legislation aimed to help smaller communities plan, fund and execute infrastructure projects  a need in the Northwest Corner and beyond.

The Rural Infrastructure Development and Partnerships Act would create an office in the U.S. Department of Agriculture that would provide technical assistance to smaller communities; establish an online database for towns to share best practices; and direct a liaison to represent the interest of rural towns in other federal agencies, according to Estys office.

Esty said Monday that the idea for the legislation had come with officials from throughout the region she represents, including Torrington Mayor Elinor Carbone and Cornwall First Selectman Gordon Ridgway, and become more pressing in recent days, as President Donald Trump readied an infrastructure proposal that would likely create greater competition for grants.

The legislation would provide expertise for smaller towns, who might not be able to afford to hire someone to write grant applications or the wherewithal to do so on their own, Esty said. It would also create a point person to handle concerns and questions for these municipalities.

It seems to me that we needed to do something to help small communities compete, said Esty.

The online database will use the power of the internet to spread best practices, as well as what is ineffective  something not always done, both at the local and federal level, and can be out of the financial reach out of small towns, Esty said.

Getting information together about what has worked well and what has not can be tremendously beneficial for communities. And theres no systematic place for collecting that information, said Esty. We know that data is powerful, and we want to make sure, again, that smaller communities or rural communities dont get left behind.

The web is how we solve problems these days, Esty said. As an example, she pointed to the example of her daughter, who watched a video to learn how to remove links from a watchband.

I see it as a huge opportunity for us to shorten the learning curve, to make sure no ones left behind. No matter where you live, you can still benefit from the best of American ingenuity  the best ideas, the best planning, the best new materials, said Esty.

Infrastructure is a critical need  both in smaller communities, and in the nation as a whole, Esty said. Not addressing it has financial costs, such as shipments delayed by a broken truck axle, and human ones, like lost jobs. The effect can become catastrophic, such as when a bridge collapses or a train derails.

The need includes better leveraging the power of modern communications  towns and communities should have access to broadband as it becomes a more meaningful part of the economy, Esty said. Its a common problem in Northwest Connecticut, she said.

I pretty much know, by now, when I need to get off the phone or to apologize ahead of time. Like, Im about a mile from a farm where the coverage is going to disappear, said Esty. Thats not very function in the 21st Century. We ought to be able to do better than that.

The legislation is co-sponsored by Rep. John Katko, R-New York, Rep. John Faso, R-New York, and Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vermont. Esty said all four represent rural areas and want to ensure that they are not forgotten as future agreements and governmental efforts move forward.

Ridgway and Canaan First Selectman Henry Todd, both representatives of smaller towns, shared their approval of the proposed legislation in a release from Estys office.

With all the pressures on rural America and with most of the governments aid going to urban areas, anything that Congresswoman Esty can do to facilitate assistance for areas like ours is appreciated and needed, said Todd.

While others are threatening to shut down the federal government, Elizabeth Esty has remained open for business, said Ridgway. This is great for rural areas like ours if we are going to increase resources in our areas. If we are going to improve services like expanding broadband, telecommunications, and internet services, we will need government assistance on these upcoming projects.

Working to highlight the needs of smaller communities will help ensure that they are included in the large-scale maneuverings of federal government, Esty said. Its an issue of fairness, she said.

When people think of federal infrastructure, theyre thinking of soaring bridges and towering dams and massive interstates. And all of those are important  important as the backbone for commerce and for travel in the United States, said Esty.

But were also a nature with agricultural and rural routes, and theres an ongoing need  and I would say a real opportunity  to make good on this countrys commitment, to say that no matter who you are or where you come from, you have a shot at the American Dream, said Esty.

The full text of the proposed legislation, also known as H.R. 4947, is available at Congress.gov.

According to the Congressional website, it was referred to the House Committee on Agriculture for consideration Feb. 6.

Esty put forward a larger plan for addressing the countrys infrastructure in January.

william.lambert@hearstmediact.comMembers of a Chinese Arctic expedition raise China's national flag at the site of a Chinese research station in Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Svalbard, Norway, in a file photo.

Five years after launching its ambitious Belt and Road initiative to expand trade links with Europe, China is trying to extend its horizons as far as the North Pole.

On Jan. 26, China declared its interest in the northern region with a white paper on its policies and plans for a "Polar Silk Road" to take advantage of new Arctic trade routes and resources.

Never mind that China's northernmost territory is more than 1,400 kilometers (869 miles) south of the Arctic Circle by land and several times farther on the shortest route by sea.

The country can see major benefits from shipping northward to Europe through newly-warmer Arctic waters rather than southward through the congested Malacca Strait, past rival India and the volatile Middle East, through the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean Sea.

An Arctic route could shave 20 days off the usual 48-day voyage from China to Rotterdam in the Netherlands, the BBC said, not to mention the prospect of reduced security concerns.

"There are no Somali pirates in the Arctic," said Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin in 2015, encouraging China's interest in the Northern Sea Route, the TASS news agency reported at the time.

While the transit is expected to be only seasonal for the next decade or more, China has been gearing up to pursue Arctic openings for years, sending its Xuelong (Snow Dragon) icebreaker on a series of missions since 2012.

In 2015, a cargo ship operated by China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO) sailed on a 55-day round trip from the port of Dalian to Rotterdam through the Northeast Passage route and back to the port of Tianjin for the first time.

Aside from shortcuts, China is eager to take advantage of potential Arctic resources including petroleum, minerals and fish stocks in international waters and in partnership with bordering countries in their exclusive economic zones.

Although it has no Arctic border of its own, China makes the case that it is an "important stakeholder in Arctic affairs" as a "Near-Arctic State" and "one of the continental States that are closest to the Arctic Circle."

Five years after elbowing its way into the eight-member Arctic Council as an accredited observer, Beijing is boldly asserting its interests and claims.

"China enjoys the freedom or rights of scientific research, navigation, overflight, fishing, laying of submarine cables and pipelines, and resource exploration and exploitation in the high seas" and other areas, said the paper issued by the cabinet-level State Council, citing international treaties.

Full members of the Arctic Council include Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the United States.

"The utilization of sea routes and exploration and development of the resources in the Arctic may have a huge impact on the energy strategy and economic development of China, which is a major trading nation and energy consumer in the world," the document said in justifying China's role.

Good steward of the environment?

Officials hastened to give assurances that China would be a good steward of the environment as it pursues its development goals.

"It is completely unnecessary to doubt our intentions or worry about plundering of resources or destruction of the environment," said Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou at a Beijing press conference, according to the official Xinhua news agency.

Necessary or not, some statements in the white paper may raise environmental concerns.

In making its case for greater involvement in the region, the paper argues, for example, that the Arctic has already affected China.

"The natural conditions of the Arctic and their changes have a direct impact on China's climate system and ecological environment, and, in turn, on its economic interests," the white paper says.

It makes no mention of the effect that China, as the world's biggest emitter of greenhouse gases, is having on the Arctic or the role that climate change has played in opening northern routes.

According to research released in September by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Arctic sea ice is now declining at a rate of 13.2 percent per decade as global temperatures warm.

The white paper treads carefully on the issue of China's far-flung fishing interests, noting that "fish stocks have shown a tendency to move northwards due to climate change and other factors," creating the potential for the Arctic "to become a new fishing ground."

China argues that "while enjoying their lawful right to conduct fisheries research and development," all states should fulfill their obligations to conserve resources.

The goal of developing new fisheries appears to be at odds with a draft international agreement reached two months ago that would bar commercial fishing in the central Arctic Ocean for at least 16 years.

The accord, supported by Arctic Council members, the European Union and China, was hailed as an "historic agreement" by the environmental group Greenpeace, which urged permanent steps to protect the ocean "from commercial fisheries as well as from other extractive industries."

The Russian nuclear-powered icebreaker Arktika (Arctic) is launched in St. Petersburg, Russia, June 16, 2016. Russia has been modernizing its icebreaker fleet as part of its efforts to strengthen its Arctic presence. Credit: Associated Press Environmental advocates on edge

Rising vessel traffic on Russia's Northern Sea Route through Arctic waters already has environmental advocates on edge.

In October, The Arctic Institute, based in Washington, reported 88 violations of Russia's rules of navigation for the region in the first 10 months of last year, representing 15 percent-20 percent of the ships using the route.

"These violations will increase the risk of incident or accident, of course," said Dr. Simon Walmsley, marine manager of World Wildlife Fund International, according to the institute's report.

The addition of a regular trade route for Chinese shipping through the icy waters could multiply the risks.

China's plans for the Arctic also raise strategic issues because of concerns that the country's commercial interests and military presence will eventually go hand in hand.

In the past five years, China has expanded its "One Belt, One Road" (OBOR) initiative to more than 60 countries while steadily upgrading its naval power and range in parallel.

Experts say that OBOR is aimed both at building the infrastructure for China's exports and safeguarding its energy supplies as the nation becomes increasingly reliant on oil and gas imports.

"For years, Beijing has been uneasy at the thought that its energy imports transit through sea lanes of communication that are under the protection and surveillance of the U.S. Navy including in the South China Sea," said Nadege Rolland, senior fellow at the National Bureau of Asian Research, in testimony before the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission last month.

Relations with Russia

China's relations with Russia and its rising investment are likely to become a critical focus for the Polar Silk Road plan.

China has already made a significant opening in the Arctic region with its investment in nearly 30 percent of Russia's U.S. $27-billion (170-billion yuan) Yamal LNG project to develop and export liquefied natural gas.

State-owned China National Petroleum Corp. (CNPC) holds 20 percent of the giant project, which launched its first exports last year, while China's Silk Road Fund owns 9.9 percent.

The backing of the Silk Road Fund, which supports OBOR investments, may be a sign that China has been planning for years to develop a Polar Silk Road trade route.

But the stake raises the question of whether China's strategy is to gain a toehold in the Arctic so that it can then expand its interests, or whether its goal is primarily to gain energy resources and supply routes, which it may someday be bound to protect in its national interest.

A further question is whether Sino-Russian relations have become so close that Moscow has now abandoned its misgivings about Chinese access to its northern regions after decades of keeping foreigners out.

Edward Chow, senior fellow for energy and national security at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, sees the development in terms of the narrow range of choices available to Russia and the global ambitions of President Xi Jinping.

"I wonder whether it really isn't just a demonstration of Russian weakness and Russian need," Chow said. "They have no choice but to go to the Chinese to do Yamal LNG. Who else will lend them the money?"

Similar calculations may apply to the Polar Silk Road, the Northern Sea Route, and Russia's plans to benefit from transit fees, icebreaker services and port development.

Whether the cooperation signals a new era of Russian trust in China may be another matter.

"I've got to believe it's more the necessity than anything else," Chow said. "If they had the money, they'd do it themselves."

"They want Chinese money and they want to do the projects because Russians make money doing projects, but I don't think they really want the Chinese to be controlling the ports," he said.

"Is it really in Russia's interest for China to be a maritime power in the Arctic? I sort of doubt it," Chow said.

On the Chinese side, Chow said that President Xi's tendency has been to see China's interests at stake in many parts of the world where it was previously uninvolved.

"China under Xi Jinping, unlike previous leaders, is behaving very much like anything that happens anywhere around the world affects their interests, and therefore, they have a right to have a position on it," he said.

"One Belt, One Road is, among other things, a manifestation of that," Chow said.On Feb. 8, 2018, Sam Rainsy, leader of the newly launched Cambodia National Rescue Movement (CNRM), launched a legal case with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, to seek information from Facebook regarding what he calls Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sens abuse of the company platform to mislead Cambodians. On Feb. 12, Sam Rainsy spoke with RFA Khmer Service reporter Vuthy Huot via Skype from Australia where he is conducting a political campaign to seek support for the CNRM.



RFA: Do you have any update regarding the status of your lawsuit? Also, has there been any response from Facebook?



Sam Rainsy: Facebook has acknowledged the fact that I had submitted a lawsuit with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, requesting the court to demand that Facebook disclose proof, information, and any related records regarding the Facebook page of Hun Sen. The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California had received my request via my lawyers. We strongly hope that Facebook will not remain quiet over the matter and that it will have to agree with my request by disclosing information [confirming] that Hun Sen has employed dishonest tricks to mislead Cambodians into believing that he enjoys great popularity,so that he can use this as a basis for further suppressing his own citizens.



Also, I have to defend myself, because the court in Cambodia, at the request of Hun Sen and his ruling party Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP), have charged me with defaming Hun Sen and with incitement. Earlier, I listened to a report from RFA, and I learned that some of our citizens have also been subject to accusations or are being sued because they are protectors of land-grab victims, or of forests and natural resources. Just because they dare to speak out to defend the interests of the nation and their fellow citizens, these people have also been subject to accusations of defaming or inciting. Their cases could possibly result in arrest or jail sentences.



Yet, Im lucky because I can contact lawyers outside Cambodia, for example in the U.S., to ask Facebook to confirm that I have spoken the truth. I have not defamed anyone, nor have I exaggerated any point at all. Hun Sen is a dishonest person. He employs Facebook to mislead people, both Cambodian citizens and the international public. I have to defend my case, that I was sued by them for revealing the facts, so that they can no longer unfairly accuse me.



I have also filed a second case in the U.S. regarding the murder of [slain government critic] Kem Ley. I claimed that no one but Hun Sen's government could have been behind that murder. I have also been sued in regard to this matter. Other people who have made the same claims as I did have also been subjected to similar lawsuits. I was convicted [in absentia] and hit with jail terms and several fines. But I can still seek the truth so that I can show these sentences were unfair. I submitted a motion with a district court in the U.S. in the state of California to require Chevron, the owner of the Caltex service station where Kem Ley was shot to death in 2016, because that company may possess evidence from that service station that they can now disclose to confirm that what has been revealed so far by Cambodian authorities is not sufficient. I am calling for justice, not just for myself but for the Cambodian people as a whole. Cambodian citizens share my understanding about corruption and murder cases in Cambodia, and about the fact that poor, weak, and honest people are being treated unfairly.



RFA: You have said that the lawsuit is aimed at getting Facebook to disclose evidence. What evidence do you want them to disclose, since anyone can access the SocialBaker website and see how many of those who "like" Hun Sens Facebook page actually come from Cambodia, or whether they live in India, the Philippines, or other countries. That website has already revealed that most of those who "like" Hun Sens Facebook page are in India or the Philippines. What other evidence does Facebook have that you want from them?



Sam Rainsy: Other records exist, and only Facebook retains those kinds of records. No one knows more clearly than Facebook how Hun Sen has distorted the facts, how he has invented so-called "likes," from which countries they have come, and how much money he spent on getting them.



I have also been sued for claiming that Hun Sen's government has used corrupt money, state money, and money gained by exploiting the hardship of citizens to buy advertisements from Facebook so that Facebook further promotes Hun Sens Facebook page. Hun Sen has spent U.S. $15,000 per day [just to promote himself on Facebook], so you can imagine how much he spends each month and year. It could not be less than several millions of dollars. This kind of expense would win my applause if he used it to support our citizens. But this is just spending to inflate a false popularity so that Hun Sen has a pretext to further suppress his citizens and engage in more corruption. We can never forgive him. We must definitely seek the truth. Facebook is an independent company. They have no reason to be afraid of Hun Sen.



RFA: After the news about your lawsuit came out, some newspapers reported that just because some people "like" Hun Sens Facebook page does not mean that they support him. Instead, they click "like" on Hun Sens Facebook page just to get information about his political campaign or his other activities. What is your reaction to this?



Sam Rainsy: There are many cases that we must clearly distinguish from each other. We cannot over generalize. The first issue is that Hun Sen has purchased false likes. There are private companies skillful in creating false or artificial likes. One just has to pay money to purchase them. And Hun Sen has used state money to buy them. Artificial likes have been purchased from various countries ranging from India and the Philippines to Mexico and Brazil--countries where no one knows Hun Sen or would bother to view the profile on his Facebook page. Hun Sen has done this to show off his Facebook page. This is such a dishonest act.



Another thing is that in Cambodia people are used to create fake Facebook accounts, with each person hired to create several fake accounts. And each of these fake accounts will then be used to "like" Hun Sens Facebook page, or to "like" anything that he has posted, or to use the site to attack other groups or individuals who dare to oppose Hun Sen. There is also a new technological trick whereby people who just view the profile on Hun Sens Facebook page have their names used as if they had clicked "like" on the page. Those people did not click like on the page at all. They simply viewed his page. And Hun Sen is not the only who has employed this trick. Other people also do it. In this regard, So Facebook must reveal the truth, because such acts go against their code of conduct. If we want justice, we need to seek the truth.



As for the other issue that you mentioned, that people click "like" just to monitor his information though they dont actually like Hun Sen himself, nothing is wrong with doing this. These will also be counted among the number of likes. Hun Sens Facebook is ranked third as the most popular Facebook page in the world, and this is happening only because of his dishonest acts.

Translated by Sovannarith Keo. Edited in English by Richard Finney.Hong Kong will cancel a spectacular annual fireworks show on the second day of Chinese New Year on Saturday out of respect for those killed in the worst bus crash the city has seen in 15 years.



The official flags of the Hong Kong Special Administration will also fly at half-mast out of respect for the 19 people who died when a Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB) double-decker crashed in Tai Po district late on Saturday.



"In the last two days, we've heard from various quarters  suggesting that in order to pay respect to the deceased and the victims and for the community to express their grief, it was not very appropriate to continue with the Chinese New Year fireworks on the second day of the Lunar New Year, Chief Executive Carrie Lam told reporters on Monday.



Meanwhile, a bitter row has erupted between operators KMB and the drivers union over allegations of inadequate driver training.



Lai Siu-chung, deputy director of the Motor Transport Workers General Unions KMB branch, said KMB should bear some of the responsibility for fatal crash for failing to provide drivers learning new routes with adequate training.



They neglect the training of workforce on the front line  There is currently no instructor who goes with the bus to tell them about problems specific to that route, Lai told a news conference. The driver is just given a piece of paper and expected to follow it.



Management said [on Saturday] that training is given, but I can tell you that the company is blatantly lying about that, he said.



Few rest periods



Ringo Lee, chairman of the Institute of the Motor Industry, agreed, saying that the accident took place as the driver took a bend on a section of the Tai Po highway where the speed-limit is 70 kilometres/hour.



The union has also said KMB faces a shortage of drivers owing to low pay, leaving those on duty with not enough rest periods.



KMB said it will complete within a week an internal investigation into the accident, which led to the arrest of its driver for causing grievous bodily harm and death through dangerous driving, local media reported.



The company has also promised to review its current routes, staffing arrangements, and safety protocols in the wake of the crash, which left six people still in critical condition and seven in a serious

condition on Monday.



Fireworks sponsors the Chevalier Group said it would donate money saved by the cancellation to the families of crash victims. One-minute silences are also planned across the city to mourn the accident.



KMB depot general manager Patrick Pang appeared to suggest that the driver was to blame.



This driver has a previous conviction for driving without due care and attention dating back to August 2018, Pang told reporters. According to our records, he was convicted in court.



He was allowed back to work following an assessment by the company, Pang said.



The No. 872 double-decker bus flipped over onto its side on the winding and hilly route between Tai Po and Shatin racecourse on Saturday night.



The crash was the worst since 2003, when 21 people died after a bus plunged off a flyover, government broadcaster RTHK reported. It said 18 people were also killed in a bus crash on a traffic roundabout in 2008.



It quoted Godwin So, KMB's general manager in charge of corporate planning and business development, as saying that the company was deeply sorry for the accident.



We will form a committee that will be led by our independent non-executive directors to investigate the accident," So told the station.



Reported by Dai Weisen for RFAs Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.Authorities in the eastern Chinese city of Ningbo snatched Hong Kong bookseller from a train, where he was en route to Beijing in the company of two Swedish diplomats because they suspected him of carrying state secrets to supply to overseas organizations, according to state media.

Gui Minhai, whose second detention came as he traveled to Beijing to seek medical attention last month, said in videotaped comments posted to the website of Hong Kongs Oriental Daily News, that Sweden had blown up the incident out of all proportion.

I know that the Swedish government has been hyping up my case lately, Gui said, adding that he had written to the Swedish government to ask it to stop issuing statements of concern for him.

The illegal business operations case against me remains open, and I cant leave China until it is closed, he said, in explanation for his lack of liberty following his release from prison last year.

The Swedish authorities have been continually in touch with me since my release, and they wanted to take me to get medical attention in Beijing, he said.

I really regret that this happened, Gui said. I think in reality I had become a chess piece to the Swedish government.

He said reports of his illness had been exaggerated and used, and said Ningbo doctors had rejected the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mentioned by his daughter Angela Gui. The neurological disease affects nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement.

State news agency Xinhua said Gui is now suspected of illegally providing state secrets and intelligence overseas and endangering state security.

According to Chinese police, Gui took with him many information materials concerning state secrets [on the train to Beijing], it said, accusing Swedish officials of trying to take Gui to Sweden.

Interview similar to confession

Willy Lam, China researcher at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, said Guis statement followed a clear pattern of statements by people detained by mainland Chinese police in recent years.

I think that he has been forced to make statements criticizing the Swedish government while in detention, because its very clear that by going with the two Swedish diplomats to Beijing he had been hoping to find a way to leave China, Lam told RFA.

Gui Minhai had said repeatedly in conversations with his daughter in the U.K. that he wanted to leave China, Lam said. Its obvious that he was forced to say these things under direction.



Writers group Independent Chinese PEN spokesperson Bei Ling said the sudden appearance of Guis interview in state media and pro-Beijing Hong Kong newspapers was in a similar vein to the video confession he made to a decade-old drunk driving conviction after being spirited away from his holiday home in Pattaya, Thailand, in October 2015, only to reappear in the custody of Chinese police.

Any comments made by Gui Minhai when he isnt at liberty to act according to his own wishes are extremely unreliable, Bei told RFA.

We hope that the Chinese government will give us a public explanation of exactly what these secret materials are that he was supposedly taking to Beijing, he said.

Also, whether or not he is now in detention, house arrest, or what, Bei said. All of these possibilities require due legal process. I havent yet seen a proper explanation as to why a Swedish national has been redetained shortly after his release.

Reported by Dai Weisen for RFAs Cantonese Service, and by Hsia Hsiao-hwa for the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.Soldiers from the Kachin Independence Army's 3rd Brigade secure an area on Hka Ya mountain in northern Myanmar's Kachin state in a file photo.

Myanmars military has asked an ethnic militia to remove outposts, including a battalion headquarters, from the Tanaing township gold and amber mining region of Kachin state in the run-up to national peace talks scheduled for later this month.

Myanmars northernmost state bordered by China and India has been rocked by a resurgence of conflict since 2011 when a 17-year bilateral cease-fire agreement between the two sides broke down. The clashes have left hundreds dead and more than 100,000 displaced.

The latest round of fighting began early this year when government soldiers launched air strikes in Tanaing, an area controlled by the KIA, which relies on its natural resources as a source of income by levying a tax on mine operators.

The KIA believes that Myanmar forces have recently stepped up their attacks on rebel-held territory in hopes of gaining control before a third round of negotiations during a national peace conference later this month.

Despite the hostilities, Lieutenant General Tun Tun Naung, representing Myanmars military commander-in-chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, and KIO chairman General NBan La held informal talks in southwestern Chinas Yunnan province, China, on Feb. 1.

Brokered by Chinas special envoy for Asian Affairs, the discussions focused on what the two sides could do to move toward peace.

We cant hold political talks unless we stop fighting, and we heard leaders from both sides discuss that, Colonel Naw Bu, spokesman for the KIA and its political wing the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO), told RFAs Myanmar Service on Monday.

They came to an agreement on how to position troops from both sides in the area, he said. We heard this, although we have not been officially told.

The Myanmar army believes that the KIO is conducting illegal business with natural resources in the area of KIA Battalion 14 where recent clashes have taken place, Naw Bu said.

Thats why it asked the KIA to remove the battalion, he added.

The Myanmar government has accused the Kachin rebel group of illegally using the regions natural resources and taking money from mining businesses that should otherwise go to the state.

But removing the outposts and Battalion 14s headquarters may not occur anytime soon, Naw Bu said.

If we talk politics, we have to stay in our territory until we have an agreement, he said. The plan to act during the discussion period must made by the technical team, which is responsible for negotiating with the Myanmar army.

We dont think any side can remove outposts immediately, he said.

HRW weighs in

On Friday, New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) called on the Myanmar military to ensure unfettered humanitarian access to civilians in need in Kachin state, five days after 5,000 ethnic Kachins, members of religious organizations, and civil society activists marched in the state capital Myitkyina, demanding an end to the armys offensives and the rescue of people trapped in war zones.

A few thousand miners and their families face food and water shortages because they have been stuck in the Tanaing region and in Sumprabung township during the current round of fighting.

The embattled civilian population in Kachin state should not be forgotten amid the dire humanitarian situation facing the Rohingya, said Brad Adams, HRWs Asia director, referring to a military crackdown in western Myanmars Rakhine state that has driven roughly 700,000 members of the Muslim group to safety in Bangladesh since August 2017.

Both the Burmese army and the KIA should do everything possible to ensure that aid reaches civilians in need, he said.

The KIA is one of several militias with which the Myanmar government is trying to end decades of ethnic separatist civil wars and forge peace in the country through a series of peace negotiations launched in August 2016 by de facto national leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

The KIO has not signed the governments nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) that eight of the countrys more than 20 ethnic armies inked in October 2015.

Reported by Wai Mar Tun for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.Authorities in Kashgar (in Chinese, Kashi), in northwest Chinas Xinjiang region, have launched an anti-religion propaganda drive through local police stations, whose officers are rolling the campaign out to residents of the mostly ethnic Uyghur-populated prefecture, sources said.



A purported photo of a group of policemen from Kashgars Maralbeshi (Bachu) county holding a banner with the slogan We Must Solemnly Reject Religion, Must Not Believe in Religion recently drew attention on the WeChat social media channel, suggesting the launch of a campaign in the prefecture, which has one of Xinjiangs largest concentrations of Uyghur Muslims.



An officer in Maralbeshis Yengisheher township police station, who spoke on condition of anonymity, recently confirmed to RFAs Uyghur Service that the photo had been taken in his department as part of the campaign, before hanging up the phone.



Officers from two additional township police stations in MaralbeshiShi Tong and Awatalso confirmed that they were taking part in the anti-religion drive, before terminating the call.



Sources told RFA that the campaign began around two months ago and is intended to undermine the Islamic faith of local residents.



It was not immediately clear which level of government had initiated the campaign or how it was being carried out in Xinjiang, where Uyghurs complain of pervasive ethnic discrimination, religious repression, and cultural suppression under Chinese rule.



While Chinese authorities have claimed that previous crackdowns on religion are meant to weed out a small minority of the regions population whom they deem extremists, Uyghur activists in exile maintain that they in fact target Islam and the Uyghur people, and the wording of the new campaign suggests a much broader scope.



Further investigation into the We Must Solemnly Reject Religion, Must Not Believe in Religion drive found that it is also under way elsewhere in Kashgar, as well as other parts of the Xinjiang region.



A police officer at the Baghawat township police station in Kashgars Yarkand (Shache) county confirmed to RFA that his department was taking part in the campaign, before refusing to answer further questions and hanging up the phone.



And a supervisor at the Aykol township police station, in the seat of Aksu (Akesu) prefecture, said officers were also participating in the campaign there, but would not discuss the scale of the drive or who its intended targets were, citing rules of confidentiality for the police force.



Yes, we are all aware of it, said the supervisor, who also asked to remain unnamed.



Currently this campaign is being carried out in all government sectors, so how is it possible that we would not be aware of it?



He referred additional questions to the head of the departmenta party secretary surnamed Li, who he said was in a meeting and could not take a call at the time.



But an officer at the Qarqu township police station, in Hotan (Hetian) prefectures Keriye Nahiyisi (Yutian) county, told RFA that the campaign was being propagated to area law enforcement as well as the general public.



Prior anti-religious extremism campaigns have been spread through the governments regional Communist Party cadres and propaganda officers, and the new campaign is the first known example of law enforcement taking part.



And while the authorities have openly restricted party members and cadres from religious activities in the past, the new campaign also marks the first known instance of religious restrictions extending to the police and local residents.



RFA was unable to determine whether those who refuse to follow the campaign will face punishment for continuing to practice their religion.



Police display an anti-religion propaganda banner in Kashgar's Maralbeshi county, February 2018. Credit: WeChat Heavy crackdown



Since April last year, Uyghurs accused of harboring extremist and politically incorrect views have been detained in political re-education camps throughout Xinjiang.



Authorities have relied on a list circulated early last year of 75 Signs of Religious Extremism to detain Uyghurs amid a string of harsh policies attacking their legitimate rights and freedoms enacted since Communist Party secretary Chen Quanguo was appointed to run the region in August 2016.



Among the signs of extremism on the list were storing or purchasing large quantities of food for home and acting abnormal, and praying in groups in public outside of mosques.



But Communist Party secretaries in villages in Hotan prefecture recently told RFA that they were notified in April 2017 of several new signs of extremism security personnel should look for to determine whether a Uyghur is at risk of becoming an Islamic radical.



The new signs included those who, when at prayer, stand with their legs wide apart and place their hands above their chest, dye their hair red with henna, grow their hair or beards long, wear short trousers, or wear a watch on their right wrist, the sources said.



China regularly conducts strike hard campaigns in Xinjiang, including police raids on Uyghur households, restrictions on Islamic practices, and curbs on the culture and language of the Uyghur people, including videos and other material.



While China blames some Uyghurs for "terrorist" attacks, experts outside China say Beijing has exaggerated the threat from the Uyghurs and that repressive domestic policies are responsible for an upsurge in violence there that has left hundreds dead since 2009.



Reported by Shohret Hoshur for RFAs Uyghur Service. Translated by Alim Seytoff. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.Vietnamese authorities have transferred ailing jailed blogger Nguyen Ngoc Nhu Quynh to a remote prison more than 620 miles from her former location in the city of Nha Trang on the countrys south central coast without notifying her family, her mother said Monday.

Quynh  also known by her blogger handle Me Nam, or Mother Mushroom  was arrested Oct. 10, 2016, while on her way to visit a fellow rights campaigner in prison and was sentenced in June 2017 to a decade in jail on charges of spreading propaganda against the state under Article 88 of Vietnams Penal Code.

She is now incarcerated in No. 5 Prison in Yen Dinh, Thanh Hoa province, along the countrys north central coast region, Quynhs mother, Nguyen Thi Tuyet Lan, told RFAs Vietnamese Service.

Lan said she learned about the transfer on Monday when she went to visit Quynh in the prison in Nha Trang, capital of Khanh Hoa province on Vietnams south central coast, and was informed by guards that her daughter had been moved out on Feb. 7.

Lan last saw her daughter during a 10-minute prison visit on Feb. 5 when she learned that Quynh was suffering from high blood pressure and was allergic to Paracetamol. The medicine, also known as acetaminophen, is used to treat mild to moderate pain relief and fever.

At the time, prison authorities refused to allow family members to provide other medication for her, Lan said.

Lan also told RFA that during that visit she learned that prisoners were allowed to receive gifts and other supplies from their relatives for Tet, Vietnam's New Year holiday which falls on Feb. 16.

This morning, I went to the prison to deliver her supplies for Tet, as notified, Lan said. I placed a request [with prison authorities] at 8 a.m. and about 15 minutes later, they called my name. Then they told me Quynh was no longer there and that she was transferred to Prison No. 5 in Yen Dinh, Thanh Hoa province, on Feb. 7.

When Lan asked why the jail did not inform Quynhs family about the transfer, the guard in charge told her that the decision was not made by Khanh Hoa prison authorities, but by a higher authority, meaning the Sentence Implementation Department of the Ministry of Public Security, she said.

The police official told me to go home and wait for the notification document, she said.

'They continue to inflict hardship'

Lan said she now will have to take a long-distance train and a local bus to visit Quynh in Prison No. 5.

They know my family situation, she said about the authorities. I am now over 63 and have to take care of my ailing mother who has Alzheimers disease. At the same time, I have to take care of Quynhs two children.

They gave Quynh a 10-year jail sentence, and they continue to inflict hardships upon me and her two young kids, Lan said. They try by all means to drive my family into a dead-end street.

Other well-known female prisoners of conscience have been incarcerated in Prison No. 5, including blogger Ta Phong Tan, who served four years for propaganda against the government and was released in 2015.

The prison has also housed land rights activist Can Thi Theu, jailed for 20 months for public disorder charges for protesting government-sanctioned evictions used to clear the way for commercial development, and Nguyen Dang Minh Man, a Catholic activist from Nghe An province, who is still serving a sentence after being arrested during a crackdown on Vietnamese Catholic youth activists.

Vietnamese authorities routinely send political prisoners to remote prisons, an action that activists have denounced as harsh and a further means of punishing dissidents.

Online activist arrested

Meanwhile, authorities on Feb. 9 arrested an online activist for abusing freedom and doing harm to the state for live streaming and posting video clips denouncing corrupt officials on Facebook, Vietnam state media reported.

Nguyen Van Truong, 42, from Phu Xa District in Thai Nguyen city in northern Vietnam, was an administrator of two blogs, two Facebook accounts, and YouTube channels running news on corruption in Vietnam, the reports said.

Truong is from the same region where student Phan Kim Khanh was arrested last year for abusing rights to freedom and democracy to do harm to the States interests and those of organizations and individuals and was sentenced to six years in jail and four years of probation.

Thai Nguyen police investigators say Truong violated Article 331 of the countrys 2015 Penal Code by creating video clips and Facebook posts accusing civil service workers and state organizations in the judiciary  both in Thai Nguyen and in Vietnams capital Hanoi  of wrongdoing.

Reported by RFAs Vietnamese Service. Translated by Emily Peyman. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas arrived in Moscow on February 12 for meetings with President Vladimir Putin as he seeks Russias support in the face of rising tensions with the United States.

Abbas was originally scheduled to meet with Putin at the Black Sea resort of Sochi, but the Russian leader canceled the trip to remain in the capital to monitor developments after the crash of a passenger plane killed 71 people outside of Moscow on February 11.

The Palestinian leaders trip to Moscow comes two weeks after a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Relations between the U.S. administration and the Palestinians have been strained since President Donald Trump on December 6 announced he was recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital, angering the Arab world and triggering condemnation elsewhere.

Palestinians regard Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. Israel has annexed East Jerusalem and declared the entire city as its capital, a move never recognized by the international community, and Abbas would like to strengthen his position behind Russian support.

Abbas is also looking to get backing for an international mechanism for Middle East peace talks to supplant the United States as the leading player.

Israel and the United States have long opposed an international effort involving the United Nations in peace negotiations, expressing concerns it would be biased against Israel. They have insisted on direct talks between the parties.

Russia and Putin can play an important role within the frame of an international forum for peace, Majdi al-Khalidi, an adviser to Abbas, was quoted by The Times of Israel as saying.

Abbas, who is scheduled to speak at the UN Security Council on February 20, has also been angered by threats by Trump to cut funding to the Palestinian Authority.

The Palestinian envoy to Moscow, Abd al Hafiz Nofal, said on February 11 that the Palestinians were not looking to exclude the United States from the peace process, only asking that other parties join as well.

Aleksandr Shumilin, a Middle East scholar at the Institute for U.S. and Canadian Studies, called Abbas's visit "an attempt to cozy up to Russia, a consistent ally, and to stop Netanyahu leading Moscow astray during an improvement in Russia-Israeli ties."

Shumilin told the AFP news agency that the Palestinian leaders visit "is a necessary political gesture for Abbas but can do little in the practical sense."

"It is also definitely not worth expecting a breakthrough from this visit," he added.

Russia in 2016 offered to host one-on-one talks between Abbas and Netanyahu, but nothing came of the suggestion.

With reporting by AFP, AP, The Times of Israel, and Palestinian News & Info AgencyMINSK -- The Supreme Court of Belarus says it has started the trial of a Ukrainian journalist charged with espionage.

Court spokeswoman Yulia Lyaskova told RFE/RL on February 12 that the trial of Pavlo Sharoyko is being held behind closed doors.

"We cannot comment when exactly the trial started and who is the judge as the trial is closed for outsiders," Lyaskova said.

Lyaskovas comment came hours after Sharoyko's lawyer, Larysa Bykava, said that her client had gone on trial.

Sharoyko was detained in Belarus in November.

Ukraine and Belarus expelled each other's diplomats after Sharoyko's arrest.

Sharoyko's colleagues said at the time that he had been working on stories related to the search for Pavlo Hryb, a 19-year-old Ukrainian citizen who disappeared in Belarus after being arrested and was later found to have been sent to Russia, where he was charged with terrorism-related offences.

Relations between Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine -- mostly Slavic former Soviet republics with deep historical and cultural ties -- have been strained since Moscow seized control of Ukraine's Crimea region and threw its support behind armed separatists in eastern Ukraine in 2014.A British judge has ruled that Soviet-era dissident Vladimir Bukovsky is too ill to stand trial on charges of creating and possessing indecent images of children.

The 73-year-old Bukovsky pleaded not guilty at an initial hearing in Britain in 2015.

Bukovsky has "serious illnesses of the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys," the BBC quoted Cambridge Crown Court Judge Gareth Hawkesworth as saying during a hearing where the trial was scheduled to begin.

If his health recovers sufficiently for him to stand trial the matter could be revived, he added.

Bukovsky held a hunger strike between April 20 and May 16 to protest the charges, which he says he "absolutely denies."

Bukovsky also has appealed to the High Court of Justice in London, saying he is a victim of a smear campaign by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB).

During the 1960s and 1970s, Bukovsky spent 12 years in Soviet prisons and psychiatric hospitals on charges of spreading anti-Soviet propaganda.

He has lived in Britain since 1976 and is now a fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Bukovsky also has publicly accused the Kremlin of killing former Russian intelligence officer Aleksandr Litvinenko in London with radiation poisoning in 2006.

Based on reporting by BBC and The IndependentAcademics in Iran and rights activists are calling for a serious and transparent investigation into the death of Iranian-Canadian academic and environmental activist Kavous Seyed-Emami in prison.

Four academic societies related to political science, sociology, peace studies, and cultural studies made the call in an open letter to President Hassan Rohani published on February 12.

Irans judiciary and a senior lawmaker said Seyed-Emami committed suicide while in custody, a claim his son says he doesnt believe.

Activists say there have been other suspicious deaths among detainees in Iranian prisons that authorities have labelled as suicide.

In their open letter, the academics called on Rohani to provide answers about the case, saying Seyed-Emamis death astounded and shocked the scientific community and the environmental activists of the country."

Describing Seyed-Emami as a "distinguished scientist and an ethical human being," they said that "the news and rumors related to his arrest and death are not believable."

"Our minimum expectation is that you take immediate and effective action to seriously investigate the case...and make the institutions involved in this painful loss accountable," the letter added.

Seyed-Emami, 63, was arrested on January 24.

The Iranian authorities told his wife that he had died in Tehrans Evin prison on February 9, his son, Raam Emami, said in social-media posts.

They said he committed suicide. I still can't believe this, he wrote late on February 10, adding that the family was asking for an independent autopsy.

On February 11, Irans judiciary confirmed that Seyed-Emami died in prison and said his death was a suicide.

Seyed-Emami was one of the defendants in a spying case and unfortunately he committed suicide in prison since he knew that many had made confessions against him and because of his own confessions," Tehran's prosecutor, Abbas Jafari-Dolatabadi, told the semiofficial ILNA news agency.

On February 12, ILNA quoted Alaeddin Borujerdi, the head of the parliamentary committee on national security and foreign policy, as saying some lawmakers confirmed Seyed-Emami committed suicide after watching CCTV footage from his time in custody.

"The video showed that Seyed-Emami takes his shirt off and prepares for suicide," Borujerdi said.

Contradicting an earlier comment by Seyed-Emami's son, the lawmaker said that the "family has also accepted this, so they did not ask for an autopsy."

According to Borujerdi, CCTV footage was shown to several members of parliament, including moderate deputy parliament speaker Ali Motahari.

Hossein Naghavi Hosseini, a spokesman for the same parliamentary committee, told Fars news agency: "The issue is quite clear because he prepares his shirt as a rope to commit suicide.

The New York-based Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) said in a February 12 statement that Seyed-Emami died under highly suspicious circumstances.

It said the prosecutors incredulous claim of knowing the reason for an individuals alleged suicide casts further doubt on what can only be described as the states increasingly desperate attempts to cover-up the events leading to the death of Seyed-Emami.

Authorities must allow an independent and transparent autopsy of Seyed-Emamis body, the statement added.

Seyed-Emami, a U.S.-trained scholar, had been managing director of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, which seeks to protect Iran's rare animals.

He had taught sociology for decades at Tehrans Imam Sadegh University, considered a hard-line institution where future leaders of the Iranian establishment are trained. Seyed-Emami had said he felt it was his duty to teach his opposing views.

A Canadian Foreign Ministry spokesman said authorities were looking into the matter.

The news of Seyed-Emamis death comes as Iranian prison officials said two detainees arrested during the recent nationwide antigovernment protests had also committed suicide.

The detainees families and many activists, however, have disputed those conclusions and called for an independent probe.

With reporting by AFP and APIraq's reconstruction after almost three years of war with the extremist group Islamic State (IS) will cost $88.2 billion, Iraqi officials told an international conference on February 12.

"Rebuilding Iraq is restoring hope to Iraq, and restoring the stability of Iraq is stabilizing the states of the region and the world," Iraqi Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili told donors and investors gathered in Kuwait for three days to discuss efforts to rebuild the countrys economy and infrastructure.

The United States, which leads an international coalition that provided Iraq with key support in the fight against IS, does not plan to pledge any money at the conference, U.S. officials said.

Iraqi officials said nations could help by acting as guarantors with lenders, allowing Iraq to take out soft loans to fund projects.

Iraq declared victory over the IS group in December after capturing almost all of the territory seized by the militants in 2014 and 2015. The fighting left large swathes of the country destroyed and millions displaced.

Billions of dollars poured into Iraq after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein. It was followed by years of insurgency and sectarian violence before the IS group emerged in 2014.

Based on reporting by Reuters and AFP

BISHKEK -- The health of one of three jailed Kyrgyz opposition politicians who have been on hunger strike for several days is very serious, his lawyer says.

Mars Kydykbaev told RFE/RL on February 12 that his clients -- Bektur Asanov, Kubanychbek Kadyrov, and Ernest Karybekov -- intend to continue their hunger strike until all their demands are met.

"They might stop the 'dry' hunger strike and agree to drink liquids, but will continue to refuse eating food. At this moment, Bektur Asanov's health condition is worrisome," Kydykbaev said.

Kyrgyz State Penitentiary Service spokesman Aleksandr Niksdorf said on February 12 that one of the strikers started drinking liquids, but continues to eat food.

The three were arrested in March 2016 after an audio recording with voices similar to the three politicians circulated on the Internet discussing ways to overthrow the government.

Asanov told RFE/RL before his arrest that the tapes had been doctored and that they were posted online in "an attempt to blackmail the opposition."

The trio was charged with plotting to overthrow the government.

In April, a court in Bishkek found them guilty and sentenced Karybekov to 20 years in prison, while Kadyrov and Asanov received prison sentences of 12 years each.

On February 7, the Bishkek City Court upheld the sentences and the three were transferred from the State Committee for National Securitys (UKMK) detention center to a penal colony near Bishkek.

The three started the hunger strike one after another between January 30 and February 1, demanding retrial and resignation of the UKMK chief Abdil Segizbaev.UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has paid tribute to Pakistani right activist and lawyer Asma Jahangir following her death by cardiac arrest, praising her courage in campaigns for justice and equality for all.

"We have lost a human rights giant," Guterres said in a statement after Jahangir's death was announced on February 11.

He described the pro-democracy activist as a tireless advocate for inalienable rights of all people and for equality -- whether in her capacity as a Pakistani lawyer in the domestic justice system, as a global civil society activist, or as a [UN] special rapporteur."

Jahangir's daughter Muneeze said that her mother died in a hospital in the eastern city of Lahore where she had been rushed after suffering a heart attack.

Jahangir co-founded the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and was president of the Supreme Court's Bar Association. She also served as a UN special rapporteur on human rights.

On February 12, the front pages of newspapers in Pakistan were dominated by tributes to the human rights activist.

In an editorial headlined "Asma The Fearless," the Dawn newspaper said Jahangir was a citizen that all of Pakistan could be proud of and whom most can only hope to emulate.

Jahangir's funeral is to be be held in Lahore on February 13. Sindh's chief minister, Syed Murad Ali Shah, requested Pakistans prime minister to consider a state funeral to honor her decades of selfless service to the nation, his office said.

In a statement on February 11, Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi praised Jahangirs contributions toward upholding the rule of law, democracy, and safeguarding human rights.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai described her as a "savior of democracy and human rights."

A fierce defender of democracy, Jahangir was a critic of Pakistans powerful military establishment and Islamic extremists.

In recent years, she was outspoken over the misuse of blasphemy laws that carry the death sentence.

She was imprisoned in 1983 for her pro-democracy activities during General Zia ul-Haq's military rule and put under house arrest in 2007 for opposing President Pervez Musharraf's removal of the Supreme Court's chief justice.

The activist and lawyer received several awards, including the French Legion of Honor and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.

With reporting by AP, AFP, Reuters, and the BBC

The Pakistani Taliban says its deputy leader died in a recent U.S. drone strike in Pakistan's northwestern tribal region of North Waziristan.

Azam Tariq Mehsud, a spokesman for the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, said on February 12 that the group's deputy chief, Khalid Mehsud, was killed in a strike in the village of Gorwak.

Pakistani security officials earlier reported about the killing of Mehsud, also known as Sajna, in a February 8 U.S. strike in Afghanistan's Paktika Province, near the border with Pakistan.

Mehsud said that Pakistani Taliban chief Mullah Fazlullah appointed another commander, Mufti Noor Wali, as the extremist group's new deputy chief.

Sajna is believed to be involved in the attack on a Pakistani naval base in the southern city of Karachi in 2011 and is also credited with staging a jailbreak in the northwestern city of Bannu in 2012.

Pakistani Taliban militants have been waging a campaign of bombings and other attacks on Pakistani security forces.

Pakistan opposes U.S. drone strikes on its territory, saying they violate its sovereignty.

Based on reporting by AP, Reuters, and dpa

U.S. President Donald Trump has told Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin that "now is the time to work toward an enduring peace" between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, the White House says.

Trump's statement came in a phone conversation on February 12 ahead of a meeting in Moscow between Putin and Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas. Putin told Abbas before the meeting that he had spoken with Trump about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Putin said the discussion centered on finding a "common approach" to bridge the differences between Israel and the Palestinians.

The "situation is far from what we want to see," Putin said, adding that he had "always supported the Palestinian people."

The White House said Trump also stressed in his conversation with Putin "the importance of taking further steps to ensure the denuclearization of North Korea."

Trump has repeatedly complained that Russia is not doing all he says it should to pressure North Korea to lay down its nuclear arms through stringent economic sanctions.

In an interview with Reuters last month, Trump accused Russia of helping North Korea evade sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council, saying that "Russia is not helping us at all with North Korea."

At the talks in Moscow, Abbas said Palestinians could no longer accept the United States as the sole mediator in talks with Israel since Trump on December 6 announced his recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and his plans to relocate the U.S. Embassy there.

"Given the atmosphere created by the United States' actions, we...refuse any cooperation with the United States as a mediator," Abbas said.

Palestinians want East Jerusalem to be the capital of their future state. Israel has annexed East Jerusalem and declared the entire city as its capital, a move not recognized by the international community.

Abbas is seeking to strengthen the Palestinian position by securing Russia's support. He is also looking to get backing for an international mechanism for Middle East peace talks to supplant the United States as the leading player.

Abbas's trip to Moscow comes two weeks after a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Abbas was originally scheduled to meet with Putin at the Black Sea resort of Sochi, but the Russian leader canceled the trip to remain in the capital to monitor developments after the crash of a passenger plane killed 71 people outside of Moscow on February 11.

With reporting by Interfax, TASS, AFP, and ReutersRussia's Federal Security Service (FSB) says it has detained a Ukrainian national in Russian-controlled Crimea on suspicion of espionage.

In a February 12 statement, the FSB said that Kostyantyn Davydenko was detained on February 11.

According to the statement, Davydenko is suspected of illegally collecting classified information related to the FSB and Russian's National Guard. It alleged that he had planned to give the information to Ukrainian authorities.

Rights activists say Russia has jailed several Ukrainians on trumped-up, politically motivated charges since Moscow seized control of Ukraine's Crimea region in March 2014.

In March 2017, the European Parliament called on Russia to free more than 30 Ukrainian citizens who were in prison or other conditions of restricted freedom in Russia, Crimea, and parts of eastern Ukraine that are controlled by Russia-backed separatists.

The list included filmmaker Oleh Sentsov, who is serving a 20-year sentence in a Russian prison after being convicted of plotting terrorist attacks in a trial supporters called absurd, and reporter Roman Sushchenko, held in Moscow on suspicion of espionage.

The list, which the parliament statement said was not complete, also included several leaders of the Crimean Tatar minority, which rights groups say have faced abuse and discrimination since Russia's takeover.Russian authorities began examining two flight recorders from a plane that crashed outside Moscow while the airline operator grounded similar plane models in its fleet.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkovich told a cabinet meeting late on February 12 that emergency teams found both the flight data and cockpit voice recorders, which he said wil help determine the cause of the crash that killed all 71 people on board. Investigators said they had started analyzing them.

Meanwhile, the airline operator Saratov Airlines said it has grounded An-148 planes like the one that crashed, pending the outcome of the official investigation into the cause of the crash.

The twin-engine plane was developed jointly by Russia and Ukraine in the early 2000s, but was phased out of production after relations soured in the wake of Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula in 2014 and backing of separatists in eastern Ukraine.

AP reported that the An-148 model has a spotty safety record, with one previous crash and a string of major incidents in which pilots struggled to land safely.

The aircraft was originally developed by Ukraine's Antonov company and, under a cooperation agreement with Russia, about 40 planes were manufactured in Russia by Voronezh Aircraft Production Company using engines and other components provided by Ukraine.

Ukraine on February 12 said it will send specialists to join Russia's crash investigation.

Production of the An-148 was halted in Russia last year. AP said media reports indicated that some carriers, including Saratov, afterward experienced a shortage of spare parts. It said some airlines reportedly cannibalized some planes to keep others airworthy.

A Russian pilot, Andrei Litvinov, told independent Dozhd TV that some regional carriers in Russia were facing financial difficulties and had cut corners on servicing aircraft.

"They are trying to save money on maintaining their planes to prevent going under," he said.

Russian officials said the crew of the downed airline did not report any malfunction or send a distress signal before the crash.

Saratov said the jet had received proper maintenance and passed all the necessary checks before the flight.

"The crew was experienced; the plane was reliable," Yelena Voronova, a spokeswoman for the airline, told U.S. television network ABC.

AP reported that one An-148 crashed during a training flight in Russia in March 2011, killing all six crew members on board. Investigators blamed pilot error.

AP also reported several other instances of An-148 planes experiencing major engine failures and loss of control after takeoff since 2010 in Russia, though it said the crew in each previous case was able to safely land the plane.

Russian authorities on February 12 appeared to rule out terrorism as the cause of the crash, saying the aircraft was intact and not on fire before it hit the ground.

The plane's fuel tanks exploded on impact, scattering wreckage across a wide swathe of territory, according to the Emergency Situations Ministry. It said it used drones to help search for pieces of the plane and human remains buried in deep snow at the site of the crash around 70 kilometers southeast of Moscow.

A list provided by the ministry showed that the passengers ranged in age from 5 to 79 and most were from Orsk, where authorities declared an official day of mourning on February 12.

Officials said the dead also included two foreigners -- an Azerbaijani man and a Swiss engineer whose job was connected to an oil refinery in Orsk.

"The rescue effort is over. All 71 people who were on board are dead," Emergency Situations Minister Vladimir Puchkov told reporters on February 12. "My sincere condolences to their families and friends."

"We are predicting rescue and recovery operations here...will continue for seven days, given the very large area where the plane debris has been scattered, heavy snow, and a tough landscape," he said.

U.S. President Donald Trump offered his condolences to Russian President Vladimir Putin in a phone call late on February 12, and said the United States is willing to assist in the investigation, the White House said.

The crash prompted Putin to remain in Moscow and put off a planned trip to the Black Sea resort city of Sochi on February 12.

Dvorkovich said the families of each victim will receive over 3.5 million rubles ($60,000) in compensation.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Russian Service, Current Time TV, TASS, Interfax, Reuters, AP, AFP, BBC, and ABCA police sergeant in western Siberia says he and fellow officers have been ordered to use their own vehicles to guard President Vladimir Putin's billboards in an unprecedented operation to ward off "the protest-oriented population."

Adding to photos and eyewitness evidence from around Russia of such round-the-clock police surveillance, the officer says none of the other seven candidates' billboards is getting such treatment ahead of the March 18 election, which is expected to award Putin a fourth term in the Kremlin.

Last week, two campaign banners featuring enormous portraits of Putin in the Siberian city of Tomsk were defaced by vandals with paintball guns. One of the Putin images was left with a smear of blood-red paint dripping down from between his eyes.

There have been a number of similar incidents of vandalism targeting the incumbent's campaign banners, which bear his portrait and the slogan, "A strong president; a strong Russia."

In St. Petersburg last month, an unidentified man was filmed painting the word "liar" in large letters over a Putin billboard.

On the other side of the country, in Vladivostok, a Putin billboard was pelted with eggs. A similar incident happened in the Urals city of Orenburg.

Another billboard, in Serov, was reportedly hit with eggs overnight on February 11-12.

In response, authorities in cities across the country are reportedly ordering police to stand guard over Putin's advertisements 24 hours a day.

Police, however, are unwilling to acknowledge the use of such state resources or even the fact that there has been a vandalism problem targeting Putin.

Police protection of a Putin billboard in Novokuznetsk began after a vandal wrote "liar" on a billboard there.

"What are you photographing? Putin?" a police officer near the billboard asked an RFE/RL correspondent trying to document the scene. "Please do not photograph the president or our car. Show me your photos."

The officer then ordered the reporter to delete all the images.

A local blogger in Syktyvkar was also rebuffed when he tried to question a police officer parked next to a Putin billboard there.

On February 1, a website in Yakutsk published a police document assigning six officers to "precautionary action" with the name "BANNER." The officers were ordered to report with their own cars, a notebook, a flashlight, a whistle, a pencil, and a telephone for 24 hours of duty protecting Putin's billboards.

The police sergeant that RFE/RL managed to speak with in Kemerovo, in western Siberia, said of operation BANNER, "No one likes this work, but everyone is silent. Upsetting the bosses is a good way to get fired."

The police officer, who requested anonymity, said his unit was assigned to protect four Putin advertisements but he believed other officers had been assigned to the remaining ones. He added that only Putin's banners had been given security.

"They told us to protect them so that they were not damaged by the protest-oriented population," the sergeant said. "They told us that we need to be near the billboards, 'within eyesight.' They told us we can run the engine and the heater. After all, it is really cold."

He also confirmed that officers were expected to use their own cars for this work.

"They picked people precisely because they have their own cars," he said. "And they paired them with others who don't."

He said the department did not reimburse the officers for the use of their cars or the gasoline consumed.

The police officer said he had never heard of a similar operation in previous elections and had never previously been ordered to protect political billboards.

Asked whether he planned to vote for Putin, the officer said: "Of course not. I'm not going to vote."The presidents of Croatia and Serbia have pledged to intensify work on border issues, minority rights, and searching for missing persons from their 1990s war in an effort to improve strained bilateral ties.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic kicked off an official two-day visit to Croatia -- the first official meeting between the Serbian and Croatian heads of state in five years -- by holding talks with his Croatian counterpart, Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, on February 12.

Grabar-Kitarovic said that it was "unfortunate" that the "past is still preventing us from being able to describe the relations between our two countries as friendly."

"It is our obligation to meet and talk and find common interests," she said after meeting with Vucic, adding that the two countries had a "common responsibility for the future of southeast Europe."

Vucic said he came to "discuss all our open issues, which are many."

"In the next 100 days, we will try to change the atmosphere," he added.

Croatia and Serbia are the two largest republics to emerge from Yugoslavia, which collapsed in 1991 and descended into a bloody war. They have sought to improve ties since, but tensions remain.

Relations between the two nations are considered key for the peace and stability of the Balkans.

Vucic was also due to hold talks with Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and parliament speaker Gordan Jandrokovic, as well as minority Serb representatives and religious leaders during the visit.

The sides were expected to discuss minority rights, unresolved border disputes, people still missing since the war, and cooperation in the prosecution of war crimes suspects.

Bilateral relations have been strained since Croatia's declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, which set off a four-year conflict with rebel ethnic Serbs, who were supported militarily and politically by Belgrade.

Safety measures were increased in Zagreb ahead of Vucics visit. Serbian flags could be seen in the streets where the Serbian president passed.

Hundreds of people responded to a call by war veteran groups to protest against Vucics trip and gathered on Zagrebs Ban Jelacic Square. Carrying Croatian flags, the protesters demanded an apology and war reparations from Serbia.

The European Union says Serbia needs to establish good neighborly relations if it wants to joins the bloc. Croatia is already an EU member.

In a message on Twitter, President Grabar-Kitarovic wrote on January 30 that she was inviting her Serbian counterpart in good faith that both sides have a desire to overcome disputes and events which have kept us hostage to the past and to move forward to enable progress for our peoples and states.

Confirming he had accepted the invitation, Vucic said on January 31 that his talks with Croatian officials will not be easy or pleasant, but I am convinced that it will be useful for both Croatia and Serbia.

Vucic initially planned a trip to Zagreb in late 2017, but indefinitely postponed it amid a spat over a statue erected in Belgrade to a soldier of the Serb-dominated Yugoslav Peoples Army who blew up an ammunition depot during the Croatian war of independence in the city of Bjelovar. The soldier, Major Milan Tepic, is seen by the Croatian side as a criminal.

Croatias Foreign Ministry said the erection of the monument confirmed that Serbia still isnt ready to confront the past and its role in the bloody breakup [of Yugoslavia].

Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic accused Croatian officials of anti-Serbian hysteria.

Earlier last year, relations were strained over an exhibition on the World War II death camp at Jasenovac in Croatia where tens of thousands of Jews, Serbs, Roma, and anti-fascist Croats perished. The camp was run by Croatia's Nazi-allied Ustase regime.

Dacic opened the exhibition at the United Nations headquarters in New York in January.

The meeting between Vucic and Grabar-Kitarovic will be the first official meeting of the Serbian and Croatian presidents since 2013, when Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic met Croatia's Ivo Josipovic in Belgrade.

With reporting by AP, Reuters, BalkanInsightON MY MIND

Today marks the third anniversary of the signing of the Minsk II cease-fire.

And as I note on today's Daily Vertical (featured below), the war rages on and the Minsk process has long been written off as dead in the water.

On this week's Power Vertical Briefing (also featured below), we take a look at a new round of diplomacy on Ukraine that appears set to begin at the annual Munich Security Forum later this week.

Can Minsk be revived in Munich?

Be sure to check out this week's Power Vertical Briefing!

IN THE NEWS

Searchers at the grim site of a crash that killed all 71 passengers and crew on a flight from Moscow to the Urals are hunting for clues in the scattered wreckage of the aircraft outside the Russian capital.

Difficult conditions mean the search-and-recovery operation at the snow-packed site of the crash could take a week, Russian authorities say.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas arrived in Moscow today for meetings with President Vladimir Putin as he seeks Russias support in the face of rising tensions with the United States.

Estonia and Russia have swapped two convicted spies after both men received presidential pardons, Estonian authorities say.

Russia's media regulator has moved to prohibit material related to an investigation by opposition leader Aleksei Navalny that exposed a meeting between a Russian billionaire and a senior government official on a yacht.

A senior Moldovan lawmaker has accused Russia of meddling in his country's domestic politics ahead of parliamentary elections later this year.

LATEST POWER VERTICAL PODCAST

In case you missed it, the latest Power Vertical Podcast looks at all the "weird scenes" along Russia's campaign trail -- and what they signify.

NEW POWER VERTICAL BRIEFING

The new Power Vertical Briefing looks ahead to the new round of diplomacy on Ukraine -- three years after the Minsk II cease-fire -- that is set to begin during this coming weekend's Munich Security Conference.

WHAT I'M READING

Who Is Sergei Prikhodko?

Meduza has a piece looking at the career and role of Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Prikhodko, who figured prominently in a video posted last week by opposition leader and anticorruption crusader Aleksei Navalny.

United Russia's Changing Role

Political commentator Tatiana Stanovaya has a piece in Republic.ru looking at ruling United Russia party's changing role in the Russian political system.

The Real Reason For Sobchak's U.S. Visit

In his column for Republic.ru, foreign affairs analyst Vladimir Frolov opines on the real reason for Ksenia Sobchak's visit to the United States last week.

Putin's Billboard Bodyguards

According to a report by RFE/RL's Russian Service, police have been deployed in Kuzbass and Yakutsk to guard billboards promoting Putin's election campaign.

Rights Role Models

Pavel Chikov, director of the Kazan-based rights group Agora, has an op-ed in The Moscow Times arguing that Russian human rights activists no longer have a role model.

Sergei Chemezov Speaks

The Washington Post's Anton Troianovski interviews Putin crony and Rostek chief Sergei Chemezov.Opposition politician Mikheil Saakashvili has accused Russia, Georgia, and Ukraine of wanting to get rid of" him and urged his supporters to remain calm after he was deported from Kyiv to Poland.

Ukraine's State Border Guard Service said that the Georgian-born politician was removed from Ukraine on February 12 because he was in the country illegally.

"The criminal case against me is a complete lie. Putin and Poroshenko and Ivanishvili want to get rid of me," Saakashvili said in a Facebook video in reference to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, and former Georgian Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili.

Earlier in the day, Ukrainian security forces detained Saakashvili at a Georgian restaurant near the headquarters of his New Forces party in the capital, Kyiv, before being transported to a nearby airport.

A post on Saakashvili's Facebook page said he was held by unidentified men in masks and taken away. "The kidnappers were in three white Volkswagen minivans," it said.

A short video clip showed gun-toting men in camouflage struggling with a man inside a restaurant and shouting at him to lie down and stay down. One of the armed men kicks the man when he is prone.

"This person was on Ukrainian territory illegally and therefore, in compliance with all legal procedures, he was returned to the country from where he arrived," Oleh Slobodyan, a spokesman for the Ukrainian State Border Guard Service said.

He added that border guards had to defend themselves using force against some individuals associated with Saakashvili. Slobodyan gave no further details.

WATCH: CCTV cameras catch Ukrainian forces swooping in to detain Saakashvili:



Polish border police confirmed in a statement that Saakashvili had arrived in Warsaw and that "the basis for the admission decision was a readmission application submitted by the National Migration Service of Ukraine to the commander-in-chief of the Border Guards."

"Taking into account the fact that M. Saakashvili is a spouse of a citizen of a member state of the European Union, the request of the Ukrainian side was considered positively," it added.

Saakashvili's wife, Sandra Elisabeth RoelofsSaakashvili, was born in the Netherlands and has Dutch citizenship.

Unlike the street protests that allowed Saakashvili to escape police custody in December, there were no immediate signs of public demonstrations against the move by security officials.

"We need to react calmly" to the expulsion, Saakashvili said, adding that Poroshenko "is not a president or a man, but a sneaky huckster who wants to ruin Ukraine."

"This all shows how weak they are. We will defeat them," he said.

David Sakvarelidze, an ally of Saakashvili, vowed opposition to Poroshenko would continue unabated.

It was a mistake by Poroshenko and his people to abduct Saakashvili. Poroshenko must understand that even if Mikheil is out of the country, his plan to hold rallies on February 18 will be implemented no matter what. I do not know exactly where they keep him now, Sakvarelidze said.

The developments came a week after a court rejected an appeal by the former Georgian president for protection against possible extradition.

Saakashvili's backers expressed concern that the ruling increased the chances that he would be handed over to Georgia, where he is wanted on charges he says are fabricated, or deported to another country.

The reformist president of Georgia from 2004-2013, Saakashvili lost his Georgian citizenship in 2015, when he accepted Ukrainian citizenship and Poroshenko's offer of a job as governor of the Odesa region.

But he resigned from the post in November 2016, accusing the government of undermining his efforts to fight corruption and carry out reforms.

Saakashvili has become an outspoken opponent of Poroshenko, who came to power after Moscow-friendly President Viktor Yanukovych fled amid massive protests known the Euromaidan in 2014.

In July 2017, Poroshenko stripped Saakashvili of his Ukrainian citizenship while he was abroad.

In September, Saakashvili defied a border blockade and crossed from Poland into Ukraine, where he has been leading anti-Poroshenko protests and struggle against the state in a series of court cases.

Ukrainian authorities accused Saakashvili of abetting an alleged criminal group led by Yanukovych, and claim the protests he has led are part of a Russian plot against the government in Kyiv.

Saakashvili has denied all the charges, calling them "absurd" and politically motivated.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, Interfax, and DozhdLooking for the U.S. Embassy in Moscow could prove confusing in the near future.



City authorities in the Russian capital are set to consider a proposal from a deputy of the party of ultranationalist leader Vladimir Zhirinovsky to change the address of the embassy to 1 North American Dead End, according to a February 12 report by the Russian news agency Interfax.

The State Duma deputy who came up with the idea said the name would honor Washingtons intrusive foreign policy.

The move comes after the city council in the U.S. capital, Washington D.C., voted to rename the street in front of the Russian Embassy after slain Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, a move that has irked Moscow.

Nemtsov, a reformist politician and sharp critic of President Vladimir Putin, was shot dead on a bridge near the Kremlin on February 27, 2015.

Relations between Washington and Moscow are at near Cold-War levels, with major disagreements ranging from the conflicts in Ukraine and Syria, to Moscow's alleged meddling in the last U.S. presidential election.

A municipal commission will consider the proposal this month, Interfax reported on February 12.

Interfax said the request for the name change came from State Duma deputy Mikhail Degtyaryov, a member of Zhirinovsky's Liberal Democratic Party of Russia.

Degtyaryov, the chairman of the Duma's Physical Culture, Sport, Tourism, and Youth Affairs Committee, made the suggestion in a January letter to the Moscow mayors office to rename the embassys address to 1 North American Dead End.

In his letter, cited by Interfax, Degtyaryov said Moscow is an ancient, historical city, unlike Washington, with its teenage complexes.



The current address for the U.S. Embassy is 8 Bolshoi Devyatinsky Pereulok.

Degtyaryovs proposal would not change the name of that street, as he explained in his letter. We are not going to change existing streets and even alleys because of some momentary political ambitions or disputes, he wrote.

Degtyaryov instead would change the postal address of the embassy, reorienting it to what is now a nameless dead end alley and label that short strip of road North American Dead End. The U.S. Embassy building would be number 1.

The U.S. capital's city council voted on January 9 to rename the block of Wisconsin Avenue that is home to the Russian Embassy in honor of Nemtsov. The move was made official on February 6.



Nemtsov's assassination drew international condemnation and highlighted the dangers faced by Russians who oppose the Kremlin.American cruiser brand UM Motorcycles which manufactures its products at LMLs facility in India has widened its local portfolio with the launch of UM Renegade Duty S and Duty Ace models at the 2018 Auto Expo. The duo which is designed to perform both on and off-road duties have a starting price of INR 1.1 lakhs (ex-showroom). The company also the new Vegas cruiser on display at the expo.

Visually, the Renegade Duty S features single color paint job, traditional circular headlamp, and two-piece seat while the Duty S Ace has a sportier appeal with dual-tone color scheme, a headlamp cowl, and a color-coordinated stopper in place of pillion seat.

Both motorcycles are powered by a 223 cc single-cylinder oil-cooled engine which produces 17 PS and 17 Nm of torque when mated to a 5-speed transmission. The Royal Enfield Thunderbird and Bajaj Avenger rivals feature traditional suspension setup (telescopic front fork and twin hydraulic rear springs) and sit on 120/80-17 front and 130/90-15 rear tyres.

Alloy wheels are standard. Braking system is composed of 280 mm front disc and 130 mm rear drum. The bikes has a fuel economy of 41 kmpl.

The UM Vegas employs a bigger oil-cooled single-cylinder motor which displaces 279.5 cc. Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, the engine is capable of delivering 25.15 PS and 23 Nm of torque. The claimed fuel economy stands at 35 kmpl.

Stay tuned to Rushlane as we cover 2018 Auto Expo LIVE from India Expo Mart in Greater Noida.

UM Renegade Duty Ace

UM Renegade Duty S

UM Renegade Vegas[MANILA] Despite a funds crunch and legal challenges mounted by coastal communities in Papua New Guinea (PNG), the worlds first deep-sea mining industry will go ahead, assures a spokesperson for Nautilus Minerals, the project developer.

Noreen Dillane, the corporate communications manager at the Canada-registered Nautilus, tells SciDev.Net that the company views the Solwara 1 project as ultimately lucrative because of the rising demand for metals due to the development of electric vehicles and storage batteries.

"Commodity prices are very strong at present, with gold and copper prices currently at four-year highs, cobalt at an all-time high, and zinc at a ten-year high," says Dillane.

By the company's own admission, the project is an experiment with unknown environmental and social consequences and uncertain profits. Arnold Amet

Solwara 1 aims to extract gold and copper deposits beneath the Bismark Sea under permits given by the PNG government, which also owns 15 per cent equity in the project.

But in December, Nautilus warned the Toronto Stock Exchange that "there can be no assurances that the company will be successful in securing the necessary additional financing transactions within the required time or at all". The company had fallen short of the target to raise US$41 million for the project by the end of 2017, as well as an additional US$270 million to build and deploy the seafloor production system for the project.

In the same month, on 6 December, local communities launched legal proceedings against the PNG government demanding production of documents relating to the licensing of Nautilus and potential environmental, health and economic impacts from the Solwara 1 deep-sea project.

And in January, Arnold Amet, former PNG attorney-general and justice minister, asked the government to end its partnership with Nautilus, saying that the mining project was financially risky and posed an environmental threat.

By the company's own admission, the project is an experiment with unknown environmental and social consequences and uncertain profits. The past few months have really shown the extent to which financiers and our own communities in PNG reject this project, he said in a statement Opponents of deep sea mining point to impacts such as disruption to fishing industries and marine ecosystems, as well as ocean pollution with metal-rich slurries.

The local communities of Namatanai district in the New Ireland Province and the Duke of York Islanders in the Gazelle district of the East New Britain Province (all in PNG) are still very concerned about environmental impacts of mining activities to their traditional fishing waters, Amet tells SciDev.Net. There are uncertainties about the tides carrying the sediments onto their shallow waters, affecting fishing, as well as marine life and marine environments.

Two key officials left Nautilus in recent months: director Mark P.M. Horn resigned in October, followed by the vice-president for PNG operations Adam Wright in January.

This piece was produced by SciDev.Nets Asia & Pacific desk.For 40 years, until his wife, Margie, was diagnosed with Alzheimers disease in 2016, retired San Francisco bus driver Johnny Cherry enjoyed the perks of being married to a skilled home cook.

She was a good cook, said Johnny, 78. I miss it.

Margie, 74, struggles with short-term memory and doesnt cook much anymore. Johnny adapted, teaching himself to make spaghetti and pork chops, but daily life was still a struggle.

Two months ago, things improved. Margies social worker tipped them off to a new city-funded voucher program, Support at Home, which provides $600 every two weeks to help pay for a home aide to prepare meals, do laundry and run errands for the Cherrys four times a week. The Cherrys pay $198 every two weeks for the services, sharing the cost of care with the city.

To get this help has taken a lot of pressure off me, Johnny said.

The Cherrys are among the beneficiaries of a pilot program, believed to be the first of its kind in the country, that provides financial assistance to middle-income people  mostly seniors and some younger adults with disabilities  to help pay for home care. In San Francisco, one of the nations most expensive cities, the need is critical. The city has more than 14,000 seniors and many disabled younger adults whom Support at Home could help.

Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle

The program is designed for people who have long struggled to afford home care on their own but who earn too much to qualify for free or low-cost home care like In-Home Supportive Services provided by Medi-Cal, the insurance program for the poor. To be eligible, San Francisco residents must earn no more than $80,700 a year, the citys median income, and have less than $40,000 in assets, excluding a house or car. The program costs the city $1.5 million a year and provides assistance in amounts ranging from $300 to $1,300 a month, depending on a persons income.

Six months since the program began, however, Support at Home has not generated as much interest as city officials and aging advocates had expected. Administrators have enrolled 60 people and are assessing the applications of about 60 more  short of the 175 to 250 people they hoped to attract. They are planning additional outreach efforts, including a Facebook campaign and presentations at California Pacific Medical Center, UCSF and Kaiser hospitals.

We thought people would be clamoring for it, but we do have some strict guidelines ... that may be keeping some people out, said Shireen McSpadden, executive director of the citys Department of Aging and Adult Services, which funds Support at Home and oversees the programs administrator, the San Francisco nonprofit Institute of Aging. But we know from initial research there are lots of people who need help paying for this kind of care. Generally, people go without it. I think its just a matter of time before people learn about it.

About 14,000 seniors with physical or cognitive impairments in San Francisco make too much to be eligible for Medi-Cals In-Home Supportive Services  which provides free or low-cost in-home care for people who earn roughly $15,000 a year or less  but cannot afford private care on their own, according to a 2016 analysis by the San Francisco budget and legislative analysts office.

This group of 14,419 low-income, at-risk seniors is not generally served by public programs and is of particular concern, the analysis found.

Medicare, the federal insurance program for seniors, covers some home care but only if it is intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy or speech pathology. It does not pay for housekeeping, bathing, dressing or other daily tasks. Medi-Cals in-home program does cover these daily tasks.

Support at Home is something of an experiment. It is a two-year program that will end in April 2019, after which it will be evaluated by UCSF health policy experts for its effectiveness and cost savings, including whether subsidized home care helps prevent people from being admitted into nursing homes or other institutionalized care settings.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

We want to know ... does it keep them out of hospitals or skilled nursing, or does it have other positive impacts? McSpadden said.

So far, most beneficiaries have been seniors. But city health officials are pushing to attract more younger adults with disabilities. Only 10 younger adults have signed up for the subsidies.

We want to make sure word gets out there quickly, said Jeanne Caruso, program director for Support at Home. This is an unhelped sector of the population that isnt aware something like this could even exist. This isnt on their radar, and theyre struggling.

For Johnny Cherry, having an aide take care of the small things, like bringing breakfast or folding laundry, eases the daily routine. Since his wife was diagnosed, his duties have included managing her medications and doctor visits, cooking and cleaning at their Bayview home, and helping care for their adult daughter, who has cerebral palsy. Now he hopes he can start attending his church in Hayward more regularly again.

The aide, he said, has been a great help.

Catherine Ho is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: cho@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Cat_HoWhile the backers of Supervisor London Breed, former state Sen. Mark Leno and former Supervisor Angela Alioto are batting over charges of backroom deals, political PAC money and how they should be identified on the ballot, Supervisor Jane Kim is quietly putting together a progressive package of endorsements and causes that could prove formidable in the June mayoral election.

Kim  who is in third place behind Breed and Leno in the early polls  just picked up the endorsement of former Supervisors John Avalos and Matt Gonzalez.Two teens were arrested Monday on suspicion of fatally stabbing a teenage woman multiple times and leaving her for dead just outside of Livermore in the early morning hours, authorities said.

Dispatchers received a 911 call about 2 a.m. about a woman missing an arm and lying in the middle of Tesla Road, about 2 miles west of Carnegie Park, said Sgt. Ray Kelly of the Alameda County Sheriffs Office.

The victim, a 19-year-old woman from Tracy, was not missing an arm, but she was pronounced dead shortly after being airlifted to Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley, Kelly said.

A man and woman, both 19, were arrested in Modesto after the victim gave officers a compelling account of who was responsible for her death, Kelly said.

Now Playing: A woman was stabbed several times and taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries early Monday, prompting the California Highway Patrol to close Tesla Road east of Livermore during a police investigation. Alex Savidge reports Video: KTVU

Ive been around a long time, and I can only think of two to three times that Im aware of in our agency that weve been able to get a dying declaration like that, Kelly said. A dying declaration is a very compelling piece of evidence thats recognized in the court to be very credible and reliable information.

Authorities said the victim crawled nearly 100 yards along the roadway before being discovered by a passing motorist.

There was a rumor she had no arm (and) thats not true, Kelly said. We know that she was crawling out to the roadway to get help  (that) is what we suspect.

Preliminary investigations reveal that the woman was stabbed, dumped out of a car and left for dead, Kelly said. In addition to stab wounds, the woman had other injuries that were not specified.

Her internal fortitude, to stay alive and to fight, is pretty remarkable, Kelly said. This young woman clung to life when she was left for dead and was able to live for another couple hours and get us that information. Ultimately that led us to these arrests.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

The suspects, who were not identified, were found at a residence in Modesto and arrested by deputies from the Alameda County Sheriffs Office with help from the Modesto Police Department and Stanislaus County Sheriffs Department.

A motive for the killing is under investigation, and the suspects were to be transported back to Alameda County to be booked into jail, Kelly said.

Sarah Ravani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SarRavaniSterling K. Brown has said a lot of public thank yous recently.

In acceptance speeches for the Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG awards hes won for his portrayal of the lovably earnest Randall Pearson on NBCs megahit family drama This Is Us, Brown has thanked his wife, actress Ryan Michelle Bathe (Yvette on This Is Us), whom he met when they were both Stanford University freshmen. Hes praised his co-stars. Hes paid tribute to Andre Braugher, the last African American to win the Emmy for best actor in a drama 19 years ago. And, with his Golden Globe in hand in January, Brown commended This Is Us creator and showrunner Dan Fogelman for bucking the tradition of color-blind casting by writing a role for a black man that could only be played by a black man.

Brown, 41, visited his alma mater on Friday night, Feb. 9, with another important piece of gratitude to get off his chest. Harry, you really have no idea what you did. If it werent for you coming to find me, I dont know if Id even be doing this. I probably would have stuck with the (economics major) thing and gone into investment banking, Brown told Harry Elam Jr., the Stanford senior vice provost for education who cast Brown and Bathe as freshmen in their first student play, during an onstage conversation in a packed auditorium in the Graduate School of Business.

After a nostalgic afternoon on campus with their two sons, 6-year-old Andrew (named after a classmate who died a year after graduation) and Amare, 2, Brown and Bathe clearly enjoyed the nearly two-hour event. They reminisced with Elam and fielded questions from students  who cheered when Stanford President Marc Tessier-Lavigne announced that Brown would be Stanfords 2018 commencement speaker on June 17.

Bathe and Brown, who joked about their on-and-off romance before they got married in 2007, spoke thoughtfully about everything from discovering their shared love of acting to the #MeToo movement and Hollywoods long-overdue progress on its diversity problem.

In 1994, Elam, then a drama professor, came to visit Brown and Bathes black culture-themed Ujamaa dorm looking for students to audition for August Wilsons Joe Turners Come and Gone.

I thought, I did a little acting in high school, Ill give it a shot, said Brown.

He was cast as troubled ex-slave Herald Loomis, a part that has vexed older, more experienced actors, but a role Elam said Brown slayed.

I snuck into the theater to watch him audition, said Bathe. I remember thinking, How is this 17-year-old kid transforming into these men? Id never seen anything like it.

I could see right away how gifted they both were, said Elam. He urged Brown to keep auditioning (much as he later encouraged Issa Rae, creator and star of HBOs Insecure).

Echoing a note he struck in his Golden Globes speech, Brown said, This was the first time I got to be a character who was specifically African American, and it felt like home.

Brown and Bathe both went to New York University after Stanford and landed their first professional roles just weeks after graduating.

After six seasons on Army Wives, and numerous small movie parts, Browns breakthrough came when he played conflicted prosecutor Christopher Darden in The People v. O.J. Simpson (for which Brown won his first Emmy).

Once he came to appreciate what a tricky position the district attorney, a native of Richmond, was in, being the black face of a very unpopular case in the black community, my earlier judgment of him gave way to empathy.

You cant play someone and hold them in judgment at the same time.

NBC / Ron Batzdorff/NBC

The conversation turned serious when Elam asked Bathe, who will be on Empire next season, about the challenges facing black women in Hollywood.

I do think things are changing, but its slow, Bathe said. She listed career indignities that sound all too familiar in this #MeToo moment: Being pressured to get a weave.

Being told by a guy on the Half & Half set Id have to put out to get anywhere, so I better start with him.

Having my manager (Vincent Cirrincione, who has been accused by nine minority women of sexual harassment) tell me to take Stanford off my resume, that this whole smart-girl thing is a turn-off.

Brown and Bathe took breaks from the conversation to stand up and perform two powerful scenes from Wilson plays Fences and Two Trains Running.

The audience was silent watching them slip into the weighty material and then back out to high-five each other and resume taking questions.

A female Stanford grad thanked Brown for his Golden Globes speech about inclusion and asked, Is diversity really increasing in Hollywood?

So much television before was about washing away specificity so you dont offend or alienate anyone, and I think that is starting to change, he said. When a storys well told, you find that everyone finds themselves within a person, whether hes black or Latino or whatever.

I am most excited right now for Black Panther, said Brown to loud applause. He plays NJobu in the Marvel blockbuster opening Friday, Feb. 16.

Being on the set of this $200 million production and seeing 20 trailers lined up, and in each one of them is a black actor, I thought, Are they really going to do this?

I cant wait to see how it performs here and overseas, hopefully smashing that old paradigm (of black films only having domestic success)  and then the floodgates will start to open.The how-do-you-dos are over, and prospects for the future are casting either gloomy shadows or glorious sunshine on the lovers. The chronological story of romance, in overheard quotes, continues.

COMPARING I MIGHT WITH I DO

I may not know my blood type, but I certainly know my ring size. (Middle-aged woman to man, overheard at Brendas restaurant by David Steinberg)

Are you crazy? No way am I giving you a ring. Have some coffee. (Man to woman, overheard in a San Francisco coffee shop by Nancy Lipsitz)

I was like, You dont know me! You dont even know how to propose to me. (Woman to woman, overheard on 20th Street in San Francisco by Emmy Clausing)

Yes, its a lot of wine, but he needs to understand my Chardonnay needs before we get married. (Woman at Frank Family Winery near Calistoga, overheard by Dennis McClintick)

My fiancee majored in political science in college. He was a member of the Bachelor Party before I snagged him. (Woman overheard at Zekis in San Francisco by Michael Rawls)

You dont have to have a shotgun wedding. You already have the baby. (Woman to younger man, overheard on Fourth Street in Berkeley by Benita Kline)

I Skyped in as a bridesmaid at a gay wedding in England. (Woman at Mua restaurant in Oakland, overheard by Ted Weinstein)

I think her boyfriends a boy. (Woman to woman, overheard on UC Berkeley campus by Steven Horowitz)

Im not a lesbian. Well, at least not today. (Woman with flexible orientation, overheard on J-Church by Joseph Leonard)

What do you mean you want me to buy you a ring? We just both deleted our Grindr accounts. Now thats a commitment! (Man to man, overheard on Mount Tam hiking trail by Tosha Silver)

Yes, yes. I will destroy him if he doesnt show up at our wedding. ... Hes wasted too many years of my life not to marry me. (Woman on cell phone, overheard at an Oakland nail salon by Margery Eriksson)

Woman 1: He got married at 95. Woman 2: Talk about foolishness! (Conversation overheard in a Marin theater restroom by Joan Dedo)

Man, no woman wants to be your bride. Youre always going to cheat on her. (Man shouting to couple walking into City Hall to be married, overheard by David Steinberg)

TROUBLE IS BREWING

We bought the Mercedes, but now we cant afford to have a baby. (Woman to woman, overheard in El Cerrito by John Bottomley)

Ill tell my husband your technique. (Woman to man, overheard at Martinez farmers market by Jamie Jobb)

Yes, darling, I know you can turn a phrase. But perhaps you can turn it down once in a while. (Mature woman to mature man, overheard at Le Central by Sean ODonnell)

We just dont communicate anymore, and I dont want to talk about it. (Woman to man, overheard near Cheese Board in Berkeley by Ethan Karp)

Weve known each other for as long as ... weve known each other. (Man yelling at woman, overheard at Sausalito Art Festival by Sandie Wernick)

Her current boyfriend is my sons ex-best friend. (Woman to woman, overheard at Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley by Arthur Chandler)

You know, a lot of gals have said that to me. (Man holding hands with woman, overheard in Washington Square by Ken Maley)

I had hoped to re-create a memory, but with him on Tinder most of the night, any hope was swiped away. (Woman to woman, overheard on Grant Avenue by Catherine Luciano)

Are you going to talk to me or just look at your phone for 12 hours? (Couple about to board an international flight, overheard by Catherine Cusic)

I guess the honeymoons over. Weve been socializing much more recently. Our tete-a-tetes have become fete-a-fetes. (Woman to woman, overheard at Le Central by Sean ODonnell)

Hes on vacation and sent me a postcard. It read, Having a great time. Wish you were her. (Woman to woman, overheard at Cat Cafe in Oakland by Julie Segedy)

No one wants to be referred to as a business expense. (Woman to man, as she walks out before drinks arrive, overheard at Cliff House by Adda Dada)

Tomorrow: Unhappy endings and happy endings.

Leah Garchik is open for business in San Francisco, (415) 777-8426. Email: lgarchik@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @leahgarchikCalifornia, which has poured billions of public dollars into studying stem cells over the past decade, recently received its first royalty check for the investment  a development that will feed into a debate over whether to spend more taxpayer funds on such research in the coming years.

The City of Hope medical research center has sent more than $190,000 to the State Treasurers Office related to research funded by the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, or CIRM, which has been tasked with issuing $2.75 billion in grants for stem cell studies.

The check, which was received in December, is the first of what CIRM hopes will be many such payments in the coming years.

I think this illustrates that a state agency can actually fund research in the private community and get a return on its investment, said John Zaia, director of City of Hopes Alpha Stem Cell Clinic, which has been backed with roughly $8 million in CIRM grants. Its something thats not done in general by other funding agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, and this is a proof of concept that it can work.

Critics of the stem cell institute say its still unclear whether California will ultimately reap the rewards it was promised when voters in 2004 passed Proposition 71, which gave the state the constitutional right to conduct stem cell research and led to the creation of CIRM. At the time, the campaign predicted as much as $1.1 billion in royalties from the research  a figure that was quickly called into question by experts.

Many have also accused CIRM, which is based in Oakland, of overselling the potential benefits of stem cell research, both medically and economically, to win voter approval.

In order to prove that it was a good investment for California taxpayers, we are going to need to see returns in the tens or hundreds of millions of dollars, not in the hundreds of thousands, said Bernard Munos, a senior fellow at the medical think tank FasterCures and a close observer of CIRM. Its too early to claim victory, or to claim this was a great deal for the taxpayers of California.

CIRM spokesman Kevin McCormack said revenue sharing was never meant to be one of the main benefits to California  the larger goals were creating jobs, attracting scientists to the state and developing therapies.

It is not the magnitude of the initial payment, that its starting is the significance of this, said CIRM President and CEO Maria Millan.

Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

The profit-generating patent was related to a $5.2 million grant City of Hope received in 2012 to research and develop genetically modified T cells that could be programmed to target and attack cancer cells in the brain. The research sparked two early-stage clinical trials and several inventions that were licensed by the New York biopharmaceutical company Mustang Bio.

If the clinical trials progress beyond initial safety tests, Mustang Bio will try to turn the research into a viable therapy for some brain tumors, said Christine Brown, associate director of the T cell therapy program at City of Hope and the lead scientist on the grant.

This is an initial payment for the recognition of the potential of this therapy, Brown said. If its ultimately approved by the FDA as a commercial product, this could be a continued revenue source for California.

Therapies using genetically modified T cells have recently caught the attention of biotech companies, and one was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in August.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Under the stem cell institutes complex licensing agreements, the state is entitled to a portion of profits generated from technology or inventions that come out of CIRM-backed research. Grant recipients have patented and licensed more than 100 inventions, according to data reviewed by The Chronicle, but to date only City of Hope has made enough money for the state to receive a cut.

City of Hope, located in Duarte (Los Angeles County), has been one of CIRMs biggest beneficiaries, receiving about $90.5 million to help train scientists, fund clinics and conduct lab research and human trials. The only other institutions that have received more financial backing are Stanford, the University of Southern California and five UC campuses.

The first royalties from CIRM-funded research come at an opportune time. The stem cell institute has burned through most of its cash, and supporters plan on asking voters for an additional $5 billion in 2020 a cost that could double after counting interest on the bonds.

Millan said the $190,000 check is just one of many examples of CIRMs benefits to the state.

Its a part of the entire picture of the return to California, Millan said. In terms of what it means to the health of Californians, and access to these transformative treatments, as well as the fact that we are growing an industry.

Joaquin Palomino is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jpalomino@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JoaquinPalominoJudge Aaron Persky made a profoundly unpopular decision in June 2016 when he sentenced a Stanford swimmer convicted of sexual assault to six months in jail. Count us among the millions who were deeply disappointed, even outraged, upon learning of the punishment  especially after reading the victims eloquent 7,000-word statement that went viral on the Internet.

That ruling was the driving issue behind a campaign to recall Persky from the Santa Clara County Superior Court. That effort has qualified for the June 5 ballot. If successful, he would be the first California judge to be recalled since 1932.

Here is what should be the deciding question in the voters verdict: Did Persky follow the law?

He did.

One of the most sacred principles of a system guided by rule of law is that the judiciary must be insulated from the dictates of authoritarian leaders or even the passions of the populace, no matter how intense or justified. Judges must retain the independence to follow the law without fear of losing their jobs.

In the sentencing of Brock Turner, then a 20-year-old Stanford student, state law gave Persky wide latitude. Turner could have been sentenced to a maximum14 years in prison; the prosecution had recommended 6 years. However, the probation department, after reviewing various factors that included Turner being a first-time offender, recommended six months.

It is important to note that the California Commission on Judicial Performance reviewed the case and concluded in its 12-page report that Perskys sentencing decision was within the parameters set by law and was therefore within the judge's discretion. It found no evidence of bias in the judges conduct.

Turner was released after three months, under a law that gives inmates credit for time served.

Again, we would not propose to defend a six-month sentence for a young man convicted of sexual assault on an intoxicated and unconscious woman behind a dumpster on campus. We, too, were moved by the account of the 23-year-old victim, known in court records as Emily Doe, who told Turner at sentencing: You took away my worth, my privacy, my energy, my time, my intimacy, my confidence, my own voice, until today.

The furor over the verdict led California legislators to move quickly to toughen the sentencing laws on sex crimes, including an expansion of the definition of rape to include all forms of non-consensual assault, not just an act of sexual intercourse. Gov. Jerry Brown signed those bills in September 2016.

This is the way the system should work. Dont blame judges for following their discretion within the law. This recall effort is ill-advised and dangerous. Neither justice for defendants nor the concept of judicial independence is served if judges are guided by their anticipation of public reaction instead of the letter of the law.

If you dont like a law, change it. In this case, California did.

This commentary is from The Chronicles editorial board. We invite you to express your views in a letter to the editor. Please submit your letter via our online form: SFChronicle.com/letters.Its yet another clear, bright sunny day in the 70s during what should be Northern Californias winter storm season. Ive witnessed hurricanes in Louisiana and Texas, glacial retreat in Antarctica and Alaska, and coral bleaching in Florida and Fiji, but Ive never seen such a pleasant expression of catastrophic climate disruption.

Like the statewide firestorms after Californias multiyear drought (that were hopefully not going back into, though Southern California is well on the way) and the record-breaking $306 billion of extreme-weather losses suffered across the nation in 2017  more than half linked to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria  the blocking high-pressure zone that has moved most of our California storms north strongly correlates with the loss of Arctic sea ice.

A recent study led by scientists at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and UC Berkeley found that more heat being stored in the Arctic Ocean is leading to changes in atmospheric circulation and the buildup of a high-pressure system in the eastern Pacific. It is what one meteorologist is calling Californias ridiculously resilient ridge.

Modeling suggests that loss of Arctic ice could result in a 10 to 15 percent reduction in California rainfall over time. Unfortunately, that time seems to include now.

Reporting on climate a decade ago, I was always given the caveat by scientists that no single weather event could be attributed to human-enhanced climate change, although the trend line was clear. Now the state of science has advanced so that two studies were recently able to attribute 19 to 38 percent of the unprecedented rainfall and flooding during Hurricane Harvey to fossil-fuel-fired climate change.

And thats why every member nation of the United Nations has signed on to the Paris climate agreement to transition the world away from fossil fuels toward job-generating clean energy. Of course, the Trump administration is withdrawing the United States from that treaty and trying to open up California and most of the rest of our public seas to oil drilling.

When California first began to move away from offshore drilling after the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill, it was still a question of marine pollution versus energy, but today its become a product liability question. This product, used as directed, overheats our planet, acidifies our seas and sometimes gives us springtime in winter.

Thats why people are protesting offshore drilling in Sacramento, and thats why millions of Americans will be wearing blue for the ocean and Marching for the Ocean on June 9 in Washington, D.C., the Bay Area and around the world.

Meanwhile, all these dry, warm winter days are giving me the chills.

David Helvarg is an author and executive director of Blue Frontier, an ocean conservation group, and steering committee member of the March for the Ocean, at www.marchfortheocean.orgLt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, who sits atop most polls and has raised the most money in the 2018 California governors race, begins spending some of it Monday with his first campaign ad. It features the then-San Francisco mayor presiding over the first same-sex marriages in the city on this day 14 years ago.

Today, we can confidently say, is the first day in the state of California that we are providing marriage equally and fairly to everyone and denying no one their right and their opportunity to live their lives out loud, Newsom says in a 2004 clip near the start of the minute-long ad that was posted to his Facebook page at 6 a.m. Monday. It will become Newsoms first TV commercial this spring, campaign officials said.On the 10-hour drive up to Eureka from Los Angeles in October, horse trailer in tow, Saskia Chiesa thought she was on her way to deal with a couple hundred guinea pigs.

She had gotten word from Animal Control officers that a local man had them on his property and needed help getting the population under control, and as the head of the largest guinea pig rescue in U.S., the Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue, she was a logical person to call.

"We didn't do a formal count, we just based it on what we could see and guesstimated it was around 300 or so," said Celeste Villarreal, an Animal Control officer in Eureka who reached out to Chiesa.

When Chiesa arrived at the lot where the pigs lived, she could hear a loud chorus of their distinctive squeaking sounds from the street.

"There were two sheds against the house and they were filled with guinea pigs. Outside, around the house, under the house  there were guinea pigs absolutely everywhere," said Chiesa. "Inside the house, in the kitchen, wherever you looked, guinea pigs."

By the time she finished sorting the pigs by sex and counting them, the number was more than double the original estimate: A stunning 700-odd guinea pigs.

A native of the Netherlands, Chiesa has been involved in guinea pig rescue work since 1999, shortly after arriving in the U.S., and said the Eureka situation was the biggest she's dealt with.

"Never in all my years have I come across something like this," she said.

In October, she went back to L.A. with approximately 411 female guinea pigs, according to Eureka Animal Control.

The guinea pigs can reproduce at three to four weeks old; females can get pregnant again an hour after giving birth, Villarreal said. It's easy to see how the numbers can get out of hand. Villarreal said it's her understanding that the Eureka man started with fewer than 10 guinea pigs.

"At that point, our main goal was to remove as many females as we could from the premises to stop the reproduction," Villarreal said. "At these numbers, giving them away two and three at a time is not going to make a dent."

But animal rescues devoted to guinea pigs are far less common in the animal rescue community than those dedicated to, say, rabbits, and so the list of contenders for taking in dozens or hundreds of guinea pigs is a relatively short one, leaving much of the burden on the L.A. Guinea Pig Rescue, although Chiesa said rescues in Portland, San Diego, Atlanta and Santa Barbara also stepped up to take in some of them.

Because of the enormous number of guinea pigs from Eureka, the rescue has had to close its waiting list of families in the Los Angeles area hoping to surrender their guinea pigs, she said.

"What's really sad about it," said Chisea, "is that we right now cannot service the animals in our own community."

In the months since the rescue, taking care of the pigs has cost tens of thousands of dollars, and Chiesa estimates that from start to finish, the cost will be about $59,000. The waste alone costs $1,000 a month. And while several hundred of the rescued females have been adopted, some were pregnant at the time of the rescue, so their numbers continued to grow when they were brought to L.A.

Medical problems abounded among the rescued pigs, too, Chiesa said  some had mange, ringworm, abscesses and lice, demanding treatment with medicated shampoos and antifungal creams.

Even though the hundreds of females were removed months ago, the situation is still ongoing in Eureka as well, with local organizations still working to reduce the man's hundreds of male guinea pigs to a manageable number. Villarreal aims to have it fully under control in the next four to six months.

"I would like to have it done by this summer," she said, "but things don't always go according to plan."

The L.A. Guinea Pig Rescue is a 501c3 nonprofit that is taking donations to offset the cost of the Eureka rescue here; You can watch more guinea pig videos on their YouTube channel

Filipa Ioannou is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at fioannou@sfchronicle.com and follow her on TwitterA man and woman found dead inside an apartment Monday morning in Novato might be victims of foul play, authorities said.

Officers responded to an apartment on the 1500 block of Hill Road to conduct a welfare check at 9:07 a.m., according to the Novato Police Department.Quick action by the ship pilot in control of the tanker Overseas Cleliamar helped prevent what could have been a serious accident in the Golden Gate when the ship suddenly lost all power at sunset Tuesday just after it passed under the Golden Gate Bridge.

Capt. Dave McCloy, a bar pilot for about a year, had just minutes to stop the tanker from crashing into the steep rockbound cliffs of the Marin Headlands just outside the Golden Gate.

McCloy had just ordered the ship's helm put slightly to the right. So when the Overseas Cleliamar lost power, it was headed for the rocks.

McCloy acted fast. He directed the crew of the tanker to lower the starboard anchor, one of two massive anchors carried on the bow. He had the anchor lowered only partially, so that it would take hold in shallower water close to the shore.

The water in the strait is too deep for ships to anchor, and the shoreline drops off steeply on the Marin side, so there is little shallow water close to shore. The ship had to come very close to rocky Point Diablo before the anchor took hold and stopped the ship.

But McCloy had little choice: Without power or steering, anchoring close to shore was his only option.

"Capt. McCloy did a great job," said Capt. Peter McIsaac, president of the San Francisco Bar Pilots Association, whose ship pilots are specially trained to guide ships through the bay.

Unusual situation

He said McCloy faced a "very stressful" and unusual situation when the tanker had an electrical generator failure, shutting down power and steering.

The engines on ships will occasionally lose power, said Capt. Eric Dohm, a veteran tanker master and bar pilot, but it is "highly unusual" for a ship to lose both power and steering.

The ship regained power 10 minutes after the incident began, and was able to move back into the bay under its own power. It was inspected by a team of Coast Guard officials and divers Wednesday and will sail for its original destination once the Coast Guard says it is safe for the voyage to proceed.

The Overseas Cleliamar, which had unloaded its cargo of petroleum in Martinez, had no cargo aboard, but its fuel tanks were full of oil for the voyage from San Francisco Bay to its next port of call in Ecuador.

Tankers loaded with oil cargo are required to have tugboat escorts while moving in San Francisco Bay. But because the Overseas Cleliamar had no oil cargo, it did not have a tug escort. Nonetheless, when trouble developed, a tug named Z Four, which was in the vicinity, quickly came to the assistance of the ship. Five other tugs and the Coast Guard also responded to the emergency.

Observers on the Golden Gate Bridge watched the whole drama with growing foreboding. Alex Rau, a San Francisco resident who often rides his bike across the bridge and watches ships passing underneath, said he could see this one was in big trouble.

"I've never seen a ship that close to shore before," Rau said.

Pictures posted on the Internet also show how close the tanker came to running aground. In some pictures, it appears that the Overseas Cleliamar had hit the rocks.

But McCloy and the ship's crew acted just in time. "Everybody on that ship did a good job," said Dohm, who went aboard the Overseas Cleliamar to assist McCloy after the tanker was anchored.

In the moments after the tanker lost power, the ship, which displaces 38,653 tons and is 741 feet long, was drifting in one of the most dangerous parts of the bay, a narrow strait lined by cliffs and rocks.

The currents at the Golden Gate are particularly strong and constantly changing. When the engine of the Overseas Cleliamar conked out, the current in the strait was moving out to sea at about 3 knots, fast enough to affect the movement of a ship. At 351 feet to bottom, that part of the Golden Gate is also the deepest part of the bay, too deep to safely anchor a ship.

"It is one of the worst places," said Joan Lundstrom, chair of the Harbor Safety Committee for the Bay Region.

The area was the scene of one of the bay's worst oil spills when two Standard Oil tankers collided under the Golden Gate Bridge in 1971, spilling 840,000 gallons of crude oil and killing more than 4,000 birds.

On the advice of his lawyer, McCloy spoke only to officials investigating the incident and made no public statements.

Dohm said McCloy had extensive experience on tanker ships and tug boats.

Veteran mariners

Ship pilots are veteran mariners with comprehensive local knowledge of the geography of the bay and its tides and currents. Both McIsaac, the head of the bar pilots, and Dohm said that pilots have been put through extensive training for just such an emergency, including training on electronic equipment at the California Maritime Academy in Vallejo that simulates emergency situations and on scale model ships at a pilot training facility in France.

The close call Tuesday was in contrast to an accident in November 2007, when the container ship Cosco Busan crashed into the base of one of the towers of the Bay Bridge and spilled 50,000 gallons of fuel oil. The state pilot commission's investigators concluded that accident was the result of pilot error. Capt. John Cota, who has since retired and faces criminal charges in the case, was the pilot.

The Overseas Cleliamar, which carries petroleum products, is registered in the Marshall Islands, a small South Pacific nation, and has an international crew.A 42-year-old San Francisco man died while operating a garbage truck in Potrero Hill, authorities said Monday.

Jeremy Gordon, of San Francisco, was killed about 6 a.m. Friday on the 800 block of Potrero Avenue, police said.

He was by himself. Something caused him to get into a collision with the vehicle and that caused injury to him, said Officer Robert Rueca of the San Francisco Police Department.

No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved in the incident.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is also investigating the death.

Sarah Ravani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SarRavaniSome activists are calling on two Bay Area bookstores to disinvite Francisco Cantu, a former Border Patrol agent, from his scheduled reading appearances next week.

Cantu, who spent four years in the U.S. Border Patrol after college, will be reading from his memoir, "The Line Becomes a River: Dispatches from the Border."

The author is scheduled to read at Green Apple Books (9th Avenue location) on Feb. 19 and East Bay Booksellers on Feb. 20. Some critics say his prose  even amid his position as a progressive Fulbright Fellow and university professor  normalizes and romanticizes the Border Patrol.

One such critic, San Francisco writer Wendy Trevino, says she thinks Cantu does not stand on the side of dismantling the organization and deliberately omits reproachable acts by Border Patrol in his book.

"There is no sympathy to be had for cops," she said. "I'd like to see [the bookstores] cancel the event and to reiterate that we are a sanctuary city both in Oakland and here, and attempt to make this a place where immigrants can be welcome and not terrorized."

Representatives at each bookstore, however, disagree. Emily Ballaine, general manager of Green Apple books, and Brad Johnson, owner of East Bay Booksellers, said they will not cancel his upcoming events.

"Bookstores are supposed to be the spaces where difficult conversations can and should happen," Ballaine said. "The book is a really nuanced look at his own complicity in a flawed system."

Johnson added that he thinks both Cantu and the intention of his book have been misconstrued.

"I think [Cantu] is hurt, on some level, because he actually, ideologically, agrees with the people who are most upset with him," Johnson said. "He was expecting much more push back at these events from a right-wing perspective. Many of the things that they are calling for, he actually agrees with."

Story continues below.

RELATED VIDEO:

Both Ballaine and Johnson say a fair amount of protest is coming from people who have admitted to not reading the book. Johnson added that East Bay Booksellers are in the process of reaching out to local poets and community members to join in the conversation at the event.

Cantu's memoir recounts how he came to join the Border Patrol at age 23  to his family's surprise  to better understand his studies in international relations and U.S.-Mexico border policy.

Cantu defended his readings in a Twitter post on Feb. 10:

"To be clear: during my years as a BP agent, I was complicit in perpetuating institutional violence and flawed, deadly policy. My book is about acknowledging that, it's about thinking through the ways we normalize violence and dehumanize migrants as individuals and as a society."

"I'm not here to defend BP," he continued. "But I am here to listen and learn from the ways my writing may be construed to normalize, eroticize or beautify border violence... Ultimately I'm here to work against it."

Representatives of Cantu did not respond to a request for an interview by the time of publication.

Read Annie Vainshtein's latest stories here. Send her news tips at avainshtein@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @annievainThe California Department of Insurance opened an investigation into Aetna after a doctor formerly employed by the insurer made an admission under oath: He never looked at patients records before deciding to approve or deny care as a medical director.

The investigation, reported by CNN, was opened after former Southern California medical director Dr. Jay Ken Iinuma said he relied on information from nurses when deciding to approve or deny a case  rather than looking at the records himself.A few years ago, Google created a computer chip to help power its giant artificial intelligence systems. These chips were designed to handle the complex processes that some believe will be a key to the future of the computer industry.

On Monday, the Mountain View company said it would allow other companies to buy access to those chips through its cloud-computing service. Google hopes to build a business around the chips, called tensor processing units, or TPUs.

We are trying to reach as many people as we can as quickly as we can, said Zak Stone, who works alongside the small team of engineers that designs these chips.

Googles move highlights several sweeping changes in the way modern technology is built and operated. Google is in the vanguard of a movement to design chips specifically for artificial intelligence, a worldwide push that includes dozens of startups as well as familiar names like Intel, Qualcomm and Nvidia.

And these days, companies like Google, Amazon and Microsoft are not just big Internet firms. They are big hardware makers.

As a way of cutting costs and improving the efficiency of the multibillion-dollar data centers that underpin its online empire, Google designs much of the hardware inside these massive facilities, from the computer servers to the networking gear that ties these machines together. Its rivals do much the same.

In addition to its TPU chips, which sit inside its data centers, the company has designed an AI chip for its smartphones.

Right now, Googles new service is focused on a way to teach computers to recognize objects, called computer vision technology. But as time goes on, the new chips will also help businesses build a wider range of services, Stone said.

At the end of last year, hoping to accelerate its work on driverless cars, Lyft began testing Googles new chips.

Using the chips, the San Francisco ride-hailing company wanted to accelerate the development of systems that allow driverless cars to, say, identify street signs or pedestrians. Training these systems can take days, but with the new chips, the hope is that this will be reduced to hours.

There is huge potential here, said Anantha Kancherla, who oversees software for the Lyft driverless car project.

TPU chips have helped accelerate the development of everything from the Google Assistant, the service that recognizes voice commands on Android phones, to Google Translate, the app that translates one language into another.

They are also reducing Googles dependence on chipmakers like Nvidia and Intel. In a similar move, it designed its own servers and networking hardware, reducing its dependence on hardware makers like Dell, HP and Cisco.

This keeps costs down, said Casey Bisson, who helps oversee a cloud computing service called Joyent, which is owned by Samsung. At times, the only way to build an efficient service is to build your own hardware.

This is about packing as much computing power as possible within a small area, within a heat budget, within a power budget, Bisson said.

A new wave of artificial intelligence, including services like Google Assistant, are driven by neural networks, which are complex algorithms that can learn tasks on their own by analyzing vast amounts of data. By analyzing a database of old customer support phone calls, for example, a neural network can learn to recognize commands spoken into a smartphone. But this requires serious computing power.

Typically, engineers train these algorithms using graphics processing units, chips that were originally designed for rendering images for games and other graphics-heavy software. Most of these chips are supplied by Nvidia.

In designing its own AI chips, Google was looking to exceed what was possible with these graphics-oriented chips, speed up its own AI work and lure more businesses onto its cloud services.

At the same time, Google has gained some independence from Nvidia and an ability to negotiate lower prices with its chip suppliers.

Google has become so big, it makes sense to invest in chips, said Fred Weber, who spent a decade as the chief technology officer at the chipmaker AMD. That gives them leverage. They can cut out the middleman.

This does not mean that Google will stop buying chips from Nvidia and other chipmakers. But it is altering the market. Whos buying and whos selling has changed, Weber said.

Over the years, Google has even flirted with the possibility of designing its own version of the chips it buys from Intel.

Weber and other insiders question whether Google would ever do this, just because a CPU is so complex and it would be so much more difficult to design and maintain one of these chips. But at a private event in San Francisco last fall, David Patterson, a computer science professor at UC Berkeley who now works on chip technologies at Google, was asked if the company would go that far.

Thats not rocket science, he said.

Cade Metz is a New York Times writer.An 18-year-old man was in critical condition after a brawl erupted at a San Francisco grocery store and delicatessen and one of seven attackers hit him with a hammer, authorities said Monday.

Police received a report of an assault at about 10 p.m. Saturday at the Cordova Market, at 301 Rolph St. in the Crocker-Amazon neighborhood. Two 18-year-old men were reportedly followed into the store by six males.An Oakland officer who graduated from the police academy as class valedictorian last year was arrested Monday on suspicion of driving under the influence, officials said.

Officer Isaac Goins, 25, completed the 175th basic academy in January 2017 at the top of the 24-person class.Steven G. de Polo / Getty Image

A 26-year-old man was critically injured Sunday night in a shooting outside the Amtrak station in Emeryville, authorities said.

The shooting occurred about 9:11 p.m. near the intersection of 59th and Horton streets, said Capt. Oliver Collins of the Emeryville Police Department.CHARLESTON, W.Va.  A West Virginia police officer who was fired after he refused to shoot a man who had a gun has settled a lawsuit for $175,000.

The American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia announced the settlement with the city of Weirton on Monday.

In the lawsuit, Stephen Mader said he did nothing wrong in May 2016 when he tried to persuade 23-year-old R.J. Williams of McKees Rocks, Pa., to put down his weapon. Another officer later saw Williams with his gun raised and fatally shot him. Williams gun was unloaded. Mader said he determined Williams wanted to die by suicide by cop.

Mader still maintains his firing was unjustified. In the statement, he said he was happy to put this chapter of my life to bed. My hope is that no other person on either end of a police call has to go through this again.

Weirton City Manager Travis Blosser said Monday that the city stands by Maders firing. Officials in Weirton, an Ohio River community of 19,000 residents 36 miles west of Pittsburgh, had said Mader was fired eight weeks after the shooting for conduct unbecoming an officer in three separate incidents.

We still feel we made the correct decision, Blosser said in a telephone interview. We dont regret that decision. We feel we made the correct decision for the community.

Blosser said the decision to settle the lawsuit was made by the citys insurance carrier.

Williams was black, and Mader is white. The shooting occurred in the midst of a national debate on how race factors into law enforcement decisions in the black community.

The lawsuit contended Mader was fired specifically for the Williams incident. Mader had said he would have done nothing differently. The lawsuit cited the state Constitution, which prohibits a police officer from using deadly force unless the officer has reason to believe the target of such force poses an immediate threat of death or serious bodily injury to the officer or others.

According to the lawsuit, Mader responded to a call from Williams girlfriend that he was threatening to hurt himself with a knife. Mader said his Marine Corps and police officer training taught him to assess a threat level. He said Williams was visibly upset but not aggressive or violent.

Mader believed Williams did not pose a risk of death or serious bodily injury to himself or others. After Mader ordered Williams to drop his unloaded gun, Williams responded, I cant do that. Just shoot me, according to the lawsuit.

Two other officers arrived, and when Williams raised his gun, one of the officers fatally shot Williams in the head. Investigations found the officer did nothing wrong.

Maders lead attorney, Timothy OBrien of Pittsburgh, said in the statement that Maders attempt to de-escalate the situation should have been praised, not punished. Simply put, no police officer should ever feel forced to take a life unnecessarily to save his career.

Maders personnel file, previously obtained by the Associated Press through a Freedom of Information Act request, included an investigative report by a Weirton police captain who wrote that Williams presented a clear and present danger to others and recommended Maders firing for several incidents.

In March 2016, Mader was issued a verbal warning for opening a car door to place a parking ticket inside without having a search warrant and cursing at the car owners wife. A disorderly conduct charge against the owner was later dropped.

A month later, Mader responded to a call about a cardiac arrest and found a woman dead on a stairway. Mader determined the victim died of natural causes. He didnt fill out a police report or collect evidence, and the body was sent to a funeral home. Police Chief Rob Alexander called the handling of the suspicious death unacceptable, and an autopsy determined the victim sustained blunt force trauma to the neck and upper torso.

John Raby is an Associated Press writer.A Utah mother thought her sixth-grade daughter was confused when the girl told her about the "just don't say no" rule for her school's St. Valentine's Day dance.

The girl said she was not allowed to say "no" if a boy asked her to dance, KMVT reported.

KMVT quoted Natalie Richards as saying, "Oh no, no, honey. You guys are misunderstanding again. That's not how it is."

Actually that is exactly how it is, as Richards soon found out.

Richards first talked to a teacher at the school, Kanesville Elementary in West Haven, who confirmed that the policy forbids a girl from turning down a boy who wants to dance with her. (Story continues below.)

When Richards reached out to the school principal, he told her the dance "was set up this way for a long time" and that there never had been any problem.

According to KMVT, Weber School District official Lane Findlay said the rule was intended to teach students how to be inclusive.

"We want to promote kindness and so we want you to say yes when someone asks you to dance," she said.

But Richards says those good intentions have bad consequences.

"Sends a bad message to girls that girls have to say 'yes,'"she said. "Sends a bad message to boys that girls will  can't say 'no.'"

Richards says protecting kids from rejection does them no favors, as it is a part of life.

So far, the rule remains in place.What will William and Kate name their third bundle of joy?

If the bookies are right, Mary is the best bet.

According to British betting and gambling company Ladbrokes Coral Group, most people seem to think the royal couple is expecting another girl. The company told Metro News Mary is the favorite for the princess's name, with 7-to-1 odds.

Apparently, Alice was the early favorite, but a recent influx of bets from Northwest England put Mary in the lead.

"We can't quite put our finger on the link between Mary and the Northwest, but the overwhelming support means we have a new favorite in the royal baby name market," Jessica Bridges, a spokesperson for Ladbrokes, told Metro.

Alice is now tied for second place with Victoria at 8-to-1 odds.

The news outlet speculates Mary may be a top contender because it's Queen Elizabeth's middle name and would make a nice tribute to the great-grandmother.

The gender of the baby has not been announced, so the possibility of another prince is still strong. The favorite boy names are reportedly Albert and Arthur, tied with odds of 12-to-1.

Other leading favorites include Alexandra, Diana and Elizabeth, if it's a girl, or Frederick, Henry and James, if it's a boy, reports Metro.

You'll notice not many people are betting on the more creative and attention-grabbing names favored by celebrities these days. Bridges told Newshub in January that's because the royal family tends to "regurgitate the same names every few generations so it's very hard to see a Princess Chardonnay or a Prince Wayne."

Prince William and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, along with their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte, are expecting to welcome their newest member of the family in April.

Read Alix Martichoux's latest stories and send her news tips at amartichoux@sfchronicle.com.There's apparently no love for San Jose, the larger stepbrother of San Francisco. Even a movie about San Jose's most famous landmark seems to be distancing itself from the South Bay city.

"On an isolated stretch of land 50 miles outside of San Francisco sits the most haunted house in the world," reads the official synopsis included in the press kit for the movie "Winchester." The description is referring, of course, to the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose.

Despite its population of over 1 million people (making it the 10th largest city in America, by the way), San Jose can't seem to get the national name recognition it deserves  not even from a movie set in the South Bay.

Other cities in the Bay Area have famously struggled to break free of San Francisco's shadow. Remember when Oakland was practically unseen during the broadcast of the Warriors' 2015 playoffs games in favor of shots of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Transamerica Pyramid?

But it doesn't appear that name-dropping the city by the bay is doing "Winchester" any favors, nor is a leading lady performance by Academy Award winner Helen Mirren. The movie has earned a meager 10 percent rating on movie review website Rotten Tomatoes.

The critics' consensus: "Like a grand staircase within the famous mansion that inspired it, 'Winchester' appears poised to get a rise out of audiences, but ultimately leads nowhere."

The San Francisco Chronicle's review wasn't exactly a rave, either. Read the entire review here.

Local Reddit users noticed the apparent diss in the synopsis. Another part of the movie description strays even further from reality:

"She is building a prison, an asylum for hundreds of vengeful ghosts," the synopsis continues, referring to the famous legend that Sarah Winchester designed the home's many nonsensical hallways and trap doors to confuse the ghosts she felt were haunting her. But that (and pretty much everything else you know about the Winchester Mystery House) simply isn't true.

In the case of Sarah Winchester, fact isn't stranger than fiction. The mansion's maze-like floor plan can mostly be attributed to the Winchester heiress' inexperience as an architect.

Read Alix Martichoux's latest stories and send her news tips at amartichoux@sfchronicle.com.Once again, with Valentines Day approaching, its time to spill the spoken beans about romance. All year, every year, a good percentage of conversation is about romance: Looking for it, reveling in it, analyzing it, ending it and building it into a lifetime commitment.

And all year, I collect quotes. So today is the first day of the annual three-day story of love, as told in quotes overheard by listeners all around us.

FREE-RANGE HOPING

 "When I said I was hungry, I meant sexually." (Young man to young man, overheard in Golden Gate Park by Steve Finacom)

 "Fall in love? I can't even fall asleep." (Man overheard on the Muni T-line by Joe Mac)

 "What you need is a wife ... a mother ... a housekeeper ... and a mistress. Without them, you are ..." (Woman talking on her cell phone, overheard walking on the Lands End trail by a passerby who couldn't hear the end, Bruce Powell)

 "If I was going to buy a woman, that's the one I'd buy." (Man to man, overheard on Half Moon Bay walking trail by Susan Hopkins)

 "I just want someone to share my space with, maybe watch a little TV. That's about all I can ask." (Young man at New Montgomery and Howard, overheard by John White)

 "It's called fishin' for a reason. It's not called catchin.'" (Woman to woman, overlooking singles partying scene at a Capitola bar, overheard by Steve Finacom)

 "Just remember, you are who you hang out with." (Young woman to young woman, overheard on ferry to Angel Island by Ann Lehman)

PROSPECTS REJECTED

 "Unless they're only interested in sex, women don't respond very well to 'Hey, Hot Stuff.'" (Man to woman, overheard at Mountain View 24-Hour Fitness by Bruce Berger)

 "Anybody who talks about enlightenment you can reject right off the bat." (Woman to woman talking about online dating, and overheard in coffee shop by Robert Hurwitt)

 "Dude, when she told me she was a Master Way-shower, Ascension Guide and Gatekeeper, I told her I was way too busy." (Man in line at Whole Foods Market, overheard by Tosha Silver)

 "Yeah, it was the usual. A young guy, handsome, tattoos to die for and beautiful inquiring eyes, and the first thing he asked me was, 'Do you want to hear about my new startup?'" (Young woman to young woman, overheard at Jane on Larkin Street by Terence Clarke)

 "I can't date him. He separates his M&M's by color before eating them." (Two women discussing romantic prospects, overheard at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art by Adda Dada)

 "He was only 19. I told him, 'I can't date you if you can't take me out for a drink.'" (Woman to friends, overheard in Half Moon Bay by Bill Shields)

 "She's tall. And judgy." (Middle-aged man to middle-aged man, overheard in Santa Rosa by Greg Brennan)

 Man 1: "It was more than I usually get on a first date." Man 2: "Well, you did have to pay for it." (Conversation overheard at Blarney Castle in Ireland by Bruce Wodhams)

 She: "What are you studying in school?" He: "Civil engineering." She: "Interesting. You dance like an engineer." (Conversation overheard on a wedding dance floor by Bertie Brouhard)

 "No, the other guy. The one who's always reminding me of the difference between allegory and metaphor. Ugh." (Woman to women, overheard at the bar during intermission at the San Francisco Ballet by Roger Thornhill)

SO MANY REASONS TO JUST SAY YES

 "If you buy him fluffy socks, you'll win his heart." (Teenage girl to teenage girl, overheard near Macy's by Adda Dada)

 "I've hung out with him like two times in the past 48 hours. It's like the closest thing I've ever had to a boyfriend." (Millennial woman on cell phone, overheard in the Castro by Jason Bennett)

 Man: "My girlfriend and I are actually polyamorous." Friend: "Dude, can you even spell that, let alone be it?" (Conversation in line at Peet's in Alameda, overheard by Tosha Silver)

 "I know you're really smart and you think about these things, but I think you should think less." (Young woman to intense-looking young man, overheard on the 38-Geary by Laura Jacoby)

Tomorrow: The plot thickens. It always thickens.

Leah Garchik is open for business in San Francisco, (415) 777-8426. Email: lgarchik@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @leahgarchikThe wordless interactions that take place between a conductor and an orchestra are a wonderful form of interpretive alchemy, but theyre not the only possible way to musical success. There are actually a variety of ways that a musical ensemble can delegate or share leadership, and several of them were on display over the weekend during the vividly satisfying Berkeley visit by the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra.

During its concerts on Saturday, Feb. 10, and Sunday, Feb. 11, in Zellerbach Hall  the last two installments of a whirlwind three-concert visit sponsored by Cal Performances  the ensemble played both with a conductor (Joshua Weilerstein) and on its own, acting as a sort of souped-up string quartet. It took direction sometimes from the podium, sometimes from the concertmasters chair, and sometimes ostensibly from the piano soloist, Jonathan Biss.

But wherever the downbeat was coming from, the results were spot-on  and even more notably, they gave evidence of a crackerjack instrumental ensemble that can work together as a single tightly knit entity. Time and again over the course of the two programs, you could hear rhythmic currents and interpretive decisions passing organically among the orchestra members, like some sort of galvanic current.

Those pulses were perhaps most notably evident in the works from the standard repertoire that served as openers. Haydns Symphony No. 49, La Passione, got a dark, subtly shaded reading at the start of Saturday nights concert, one that laid an emphasis on the works communal aspects.

And Sundays matinee got under way with a performance of Ravels Le tombeau de Couperin that shone a tender light on the composers most ingratiating strains. From the lovely, burbling vivacity of the opening Prelude through the jaunty rhythms of the final Rigaudon, the players made everything sound fresh and almost improvisatory in its spontaneity.

There was a similar freshness in its rendition of George Tsontakis O Mikros, O Megas (The Small World, the Huge World), which occupied the center spot on Sunday. Commissioned two years ago for the orchestra, this was a four-movement rhapsody on nature, running about 25 minutes, that seemed designed to bring out the players most responsive impulses.

Tsontakis writes in a gently accessible idiom that is always pleasant, if not always particularly stirring. This piece proved most enchanting in the second movement, Shadows (Lullaby)  built on a rocking three-note figure that ranges from bass line to thematic material to ornamental filigree and back again  and in the final moments, which close out the piece on a gorgeous meditative fade.

Tsontakis piece seemed tailor-made for conductor-free performance, but Weilerstein was on hand on Saturday to lead Biss and the orchestra in Salvatore Sciarrinos oddball piano concerto Il sogno di Stradella (The Dream of Stradella). Premiered last year, this cast melodic echoes of the 17th century composer Antonio Stradella in the form of a wistful waltz a la Satie, and framed it with matching episodes of disembodied instrumental skittering. The effect was inconclusive at best.

The main focus of Biss activity, though, was a series of Beethoven concertos  the Fourth on Saturday and the Fifth (Emperor) on Sunday. (He also played the Second on Friday, along with Timo Andres concerto The Blind Banister.)

The Fourth, in a nifty programming coup, was preceded without pause by Ives Unanswered Question, which seemed to suggest that Beethovens music was in fact the answer. Biss and Weilerstein collaborated on a rendition whose sturdy reliability underscored the point.

But the Emperor found Biss in an even more spirited and dramatic vein. He was billed in the program as the director, but he plainly had his hands full with the solo part, and leadership was quite obviously coming from concertmaster Steven Copes. That made for a splendid division of duties, and Biss luminous and expressive encore, The Poet Speaks from Schumanns Kinderszenen, was a welcome reminder of his mastery of that composers music.

Joshua Kosman is The San Francisco Chronicles music critic. Email: jkosman@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JoshuaKosmanWASHINGTON  President Trump sent Congress a sweeping plan Monday to rebuild the nations depleted roads and bridges  then immediately raised doubts about how committed he was to delivering on that campaign promise.

If you want it badly, youre going to get it, Trump told state and local officials during a meeting at the White House. And if you dont want it, thats OK with me too.

Trump suggested that his proposal  aimed at spurring $1.5 trillion in spending over a decade  was not as important to him as other recent administration efforts to cut taxes and boost military spending.

If for any reason, they dont want to support to it, hey, thats going to be up to them, Trump said of the Republican-controlled Congress. What was very important to me was the military, what was very important to me was the tax cuts, and what was very important to me was regulation.

Speaking of infrastructure, Trump added: This is of great importance, but its not nearly in that category. Because the states will have to do it themselves if we dont do it. But I would like to help the states out.

The administrations plan is centered on using $200 billion in federal money to leverage more than $1 trillion in local and state tax dollars to fix Americas infrastructure, such as roads, highways, ports and airports. The administration released a 55-page legislative outline for lawmakers who will write the legislation.

With the plan heavily dependent on state and local dollars, Democrats warned it would raise tolls on commuters, sell off government-owned infrastructure to Wall Street and eliminate critical environmental protections.

The proposal lists Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Dulles International Airport as examples of assets that could be sold. Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., warned that the proposal included studying whether the Tennessee Valley Authority, the nations largest public utility, should sell its transmission assets. He called it a looney idea with zero chance of becoming law.

After a full year of empty boasts, the president has finally unveiled a puny infrastructure scam that fully fails to meet the need in Americas communities, said House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco.

Convening a roomful of state and local leaders, Trump listened as governors and mayors pitched individual projects in their states and described the challenges involved with gaining federal permits.

It seems to me that the pyramids in Egypt were built faster than some of the projects that were contemplating, said Esteban Bovo, chairman of the Miami-Dade County Commission in Florida.

Trump pledged repeatedly that the federal permitting process would be streamlined but said it would be up to state and local leaders to ensure that local permits dont hold up worthy projects.

During the meeting, the former real estate developer reveled in his past life as a builder, pointing to his 1980s completion of a troubled renovation of Wollman Rink in New York Citys Central Park.

When a local official from Pennsylvania noted plans to add connections for an interstate highway  estimated to cost more than $500 million  Trump was blunt. Get the price down a little bit, he said to laughter.

To me this is a very, very sexy subject, Trump said. The media doesnt find it sexy. I find it sexy because I was always a builder, I always knew how to build on time, on budget.

The proposal features two key components: an injection of funding for new investments and to speed up repairs of crumbling roads and airports, as well as a streamlined permitting process that would reduce the wait time to get projects under way. Officials said the $200 billion in federal support would come from cuts to existing programs.

Half the money would go to grants for transportation, water, flood control, cleanup at some of the countrys most polluted sites and other projects.

Ken Thomas is an Associated Press writer.San Franciscos car break-in epidemic took a disturbing turn over the weekend when a man smashed into a car at a parking structure and threw a Chihuahua to its death seven stories below, police said.

Four-year-old Dunky didnt stand a chance.

At first, it wasnt clear exactly what happened to the small black and tan dog Saturday afternoon. A passerby discovered the animal dead on the pavement outside the Stockton Street Tunnel near Sutter Street around 2 p.m.

Dunkys owner, who was not identified, made the sad discovery upon returning to the structure near Union Square. He thought the dog had escaped from the vehicle and somehow fallen over the railing, police said.

But when investigators began looking closer, it was clear something more sinister happened.

Blood and broken glass was in the car. The glove compartment had been rummaged through. A trail of blood led from the car to the railing.

Dash camera footage eventually revealed the crime in all its horror.

Police said 35-year-old San Francisco resident Wakeen Best, a man they immediately recognized from prior contacts, broke into the car and threw Dunky over the ledge.

Officers arrested Best at Polk and Bush streets Sunday on suspicion of felony burglary, animal cruelty, grand theft, possession of stolen property, carrying a concealed weapon, vandalism and probation violation.

Best was also held on suspicion of misdemeanor counts of possession of burglary tools, possession of drug paraphernalia and violating a court order. He is being held without bail.

The incident comes in the wake of several shocking recent car break-ins in San Francisco.

Criminals have taken musicians instruments, ash-filled urns, and an Olympians ice skates and dress, to name a few items. But Dunkys death marked a new low in an already abysmal situation.

More than 30,000 auto burglaries were reported in San Francisco in 2017, the worst year on record.

San Francisco police said they are using new methods to combat the epidemic, but morning streets are still littered with shattered glass.

Police havent been spared from the trouble, either. On Feb. 1, an auto burglary suspect intentionally ran over a plainclothes officer during a bust at Alamo Square, police said.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffskyPolice in San Francisco are searching for a 19-year-old robbery suspect who was released from jail last week after allegedly assaulting a city police officer while armed with a handgun, officials said Sunday.

Dante Oliver, 19, is suspected in a robbery that happened in the Taraval Stations jurisdiction, police said. Officials did not elaborate on the circumstances of the incident.Aimee Myers said she was on a mission for Iggy Pop and the Cramps as she flipped through crate after crate of vinyl records on Sunday.

And a few hours into digging at the Rock n Swap record fair at University of San Franciscos McLaren Hall, she hit pay dirt: a $25 used copy of Raw Power by Iggy and the Stooges.

Im really excited, the 21-year-old media studies major said, clutching an older copy of the seminal 1973 pre-punk masterpiece in both arms. Ive been looking for this for a while, and Ive been buying vinyl since the fifth grade.

Myers, a junior at USF, continued her hunt among the hundreds of record buyers and vendors packed into the conference center for the four-times-per-year swap meet that draws people from all over the Bay Area and state.

This is definitely a bridge for students to see and interact with music collectors, said Miranda Morris, manager at KUSF.org, the online campus radio station that hosts the event. San Francisco is such a great music town, and this is a really good way to get into the swing of it.

And while the USF record convention has been taking place for decades  the first one starting in 1983  organizers in recent years have seen a spike in interest from younger music lovers amid a larger boom in vinyl sales nationally.

Brian Feulner/Brian Feulner, Special to the Chronicle

Those sales are largely driven by aficionados of quality sound and artwork, and fed up with the intangible MP3s and highly compressed streaming music thats taken over the industry.

Last year was the 12th straight year in a row vinyl record sales grew, with 14.32 million albums sold  up from 13.1 million the year before, according to Nielsen music data. The demand has prompted an increase in reissues with stores such as Urban Outfitters selling LPs to their Millennial clientele.

Sundays crowd at USF, though, seemed to understand that the best records are the kinds without bar codes, sold back in the day and cut from the original analog tapes that were mastered for home sound systems rather than earbuds.

Its the most authentic way to listen to music, Myers said of vinyl records. The sound quality is better, and its more of an experience. Digital music now is more like background music.

The vendors at Sundays expo were as mixed as the LPs they peddled. Some own record stores around the Bay Area. Others sell online, only occasionally hauling out their cumbersome stacks to sell in person. Still others truck up from Southern California or other parts of the state, not only for the fresh crop of buyers, but also to snap up finds theyve often been seeking for years.

Mike Vague bought a still-sealed original 1965 copy of Gettin Around by saxophonist Dexter Gordon. The Los Angeles vendor wont be selling the classic jazz album on Blue Note Records, but he was trying to unload some of his own heavy-hitters in the record world.

On display behind his table was a $950 copy of the Beatles Yesterday and Today with the butcher block cover. The 1966 record is famous because of its controversial cover featuring the Fab Four in white coats holding dismembered baby dolls and cuts of meat. Capitol Records immediately pulled the album upon release and covered it up with a more wholesome portrait of the group.

Brian Feulner/Brian Feulner, Special to the Chronicle

Vagues copy is known as a third state version because the pasted-over cover had been carefully removed. A first state version, one that was never covered to begin with, can fetch thousands.

Wearing a black James Brown T-shirt, Vague reorganized his stock, pointing out that his best-sellers arent necessarily the rare records.

You never know what people will like, he said. There seems to be more interest these days in the stuff that sold millions in the 70s.

Nevertheless, people are buying. And for Vague, who has six storage units packed with records, sales are good. More importantly, though, music in its best analog form is getting into the hands and into the ears of more people.

Digital music is like junk food, he said. Its no good for you.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffskyLOS GATOS (BCN)

A San Francisco 49ers linebacker was arrested this morning in Los Gatos on suspicion of domestic violence, possessing an assault weapon and making threats, police said.

Reuben Foster, 23, was arrested after police responded at 9:15 a.m. to a home on Shannon Road to do a welfare check and check on a possible disturbance.

Police said they spoke with the victim and Foster and as a result of an investigation Foster was arrested and taken to the county jail.

Foster was being held on $75,000 bail, according to county inmate records.

In a statement, officials with the San Francisco 49ers said, "The San Francisco 49ers organization is aware of the report regarding Reuben Foster. We take matters of this nature seriously and are gathering all pertinent information."BART officials have asked students from the California College of the Arts in San Francisco to design posters to deter poor behavior and encourage etiquette on BART property.

Starting this month, riders will see about 12 poster designs on board trains and inside stations that address backpack etiquette, elevator cleanliness, littering, fare evasion and other behaviors.John Storey/Special to the Chronicle

Alex Washburn/Special to The Chronicle

BERKELEY (BCN)

A 59-year-old man was arrested Saturday night at BART's Ashby station in Berkeley for making criminal threats, BART police said today.

The threats were reported to police at 8:46 p.m.

Witnesses told officers that Tyrone Lankford of Berkeley was threatening patrons on the station platform.

Police said officers found Lankford and arrested him for making the threats and for three outstanding warrants.

Lankford was taken to the county jail.SANTA CLARA (BCN)

A meeting will be held this evening to allow Santa Clara residents to play a part in the conversation on cannabis regulation in the city.

From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the City Council chambers at 1500 Warburton Ave., the public can attend the community forum to learn about the cannabis industry and the city's upcoming efforts to regulate it, police said.

The meeting will be the first of two scheduled meetings held prior to the Santa Clara City Council's consideration of a new ordinance to regulate cannabis, police said.

The meetings come in response to the state's new legalization of recreational marijuana that became effective Jan. 1. Proposition 64 was passed in 2016 and is now being widely addressed by cities and counties in the Bay Area.

"California state law allows local governments to regulate commercial cannabis activities in their respective jurisdictions," Santa Clara police said in a statement. "The city has recently launched plans to develop regulations for cannabis activity."

The next meeting will be held on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the city's Central Library located at 2635 Homestead Road in the Margie Edinger Room, according to police.

For more information on Santa Clara's meeting, people can call the City Manager's Office at (408) 615-2210.ROHNERT PARK (BCN)

First responders in Rohnert Park Friday saved the life of a young man suffering from an opioid overdose, police said today.

Officers and firefighters went to a home on Racquet Club Circle around 11:15 a.m. in response to a call about an unresponsive man, according to police.

They found a 22-year-old man with symptoms of an opioid overdose. Public safety personnel administered Naloxone to the man, which countered the effects of the drug, and he regained consciousness, according to police.

The National Institution on Drug Abuse describes Naloxone as a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose, police said. It can quickly restore normal respiration to a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped as a result of overdosing with heroin or prescription opioid pain medications.

The 22-year-old man denied further medical treatment, police said. But he is alive today because of the quick response of the Rohnert Park police and fire units.A captain with the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department was awarded a Bronze Star last month for his work in the U.S. Army Special Forces, fire officials said.

Capt. Ken Atkinson received the award for his service and dedication in a combat mission last year in Afghanistan.SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)

San Francisco police said they arrested an animal cruelty and auto burglary suspect thought to have tossed a Chihuahua to its death Saturday from the seventh floor of a parking garage.

Wakeen Best, 35, of San Francisco was arrested today after a police sergeant spotted him near Polk and Bush streets.

Police said that at about 2 p.m. Saturday, officers responded to the 400 block of Stockton Street after someone called to report an auto burglary and a dead dog.

The victim had returned to that location to find Dunky, his 4-year-old Chihuahua in the hands of another person.

Dunky had been in the victim's car so the victim first thought Dunky got out of the car and fell from the seventh floor of the parking garage.

But instead the victim found that his vehicle had been broken into.

Police allege the victim found blood and broken glass throughout his vehicle and saw that someone had rummaged through the glove compartment.

When police arrived they allegedly found a trail of blood leading to a ledge where Dunky was thrown to the street below.

Police said they obtained video and audio evidence of the alleged offense from a dash camera.

Police said they recognized Best from previous encounters.

Animal Care and Control took Dunky into their care.

Police said they'll be seeking charges of burglary, animal cruelty, grand theft, possession of stolen property, carrying a concealed weapon, vandalism, a probation violation, possession of burglary tools, possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of a court order.SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)

A 27-year-old man was injured in a shooting in San Francisco's Mission District on Friday night, according to police.

The shooting was reported at about 10:45 p.m. Friday in the 2500 block of Harrison Street.

The victim said he was walking in the area when he heard gunshots and realized he had been shot. He went to a hospital for treatment of his injuries, which are not considered life-threatening, police said.

The victim did not see any suspects and no arrests have been made in the case.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call the Police Department's anonymous tip line at (415) 575-4444 or to send a tip by text message to TIP411 with "SFPD" in the message.A male victim died in a fire this morning at a homeless encampment near Interstate Highway 980 in Oakland, a fire battalion chief said.

The fire was reported at 5:23 a.m. near Northgate Avenue and Sycamore Street.

Battalion Chief Ian McWhorter said the fire has been extinguished and no one else was injured.

McWhorter couldn't say yet how the fire started. The homeless camp was a little different than a typical tent camp because the residents had built small structures with two-by-fours and plywood.

"They're getting very creative," McWhorter said.

The structure had a door, but probably not a smoke alarm, he said.

According to McWhorter, two or three more structures are in the same area.

A woman has been identified by the Alameda County coroner's bureau following her death in a collision with an Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District bus Thursday morning in Berkeley.

Kelli Zachery, 27, of Manteca, was killed when her red sedan hit the bus at Ashby Avenue and California Street shortly before 6:40 a.m. Thursday.

The collision sent both the bus and the sedan crashing into a parked car and then a home.

Zachery's sedan was traveling south on California Street when it hit the bus traveling west on Ashby Avenue.

The driver of the bus and its single passenger were not injured, police said.

Vallejo police said a 47-year-old American Canyon man was found dead Saturday night in a motor home that was involved in a crash.

The man's death is considered a homicide, police said.

Police received a report about the solo-vehicle crash around 10:35 p.m. Saturday. The man was found in the driver's seat of the motor home near the intersection of Tuolumne Street and Hospital Drive near Sutter Solano Medical Center. Police said he died from something other than the vehicle crash.

His identity is not being released until his next of kin are notified of the death, police said.

Anyone with information about the death is asked to call Vallejo police detectives Jason Martinez or Terry Poyser at (707) 648-4080.

An 89-year-old Woodside man has been identified by the Santa Clara County medical examiner's office following his death in a collision with a vehicle Thursday evening in Belmont.

Ernest Goldau died in a collision in the 100 block of Old County Road after police arrived there at about 6:30 p.m.

Police said a blue Toyota Corolla hit Goldau and police found him lying in the road. He died after being taken to Stanford Hospital, according to the medical examiner's office.

The driver of the Toyota stayed at the scene and cooperated with police.

Police said neither drugs nor alcohol appear to have played a part in the collision.

A bicyclist who succumbed to his injuries from being struck by a car on Saturday morning in San Jose has been identified, according to the Santa Clara County medical examiner's office.

Thanh Hoang, 64, of San Jose, was riding south on Capitol Expressway past Nieman Boulevard in the designated bike lane when he was struck by a silver 2002 Nissan Sentra, San Jose police said.

Officers responded to the scene around 9:30 a.m. and found Hoang in critical condition. He was taken to a hospital where he died, according to police.

It does not appear that drugs or alcohol played a role in the collision, police said. The driver of the Nissan cooperated with officers.

Anyone with information about the collision should call Detective Troy Sirmons of the Police Department's traffic investigations unit at (408) 277-4654.

The Santa Clara County medical examiner's office has identified a man fatally shot in San Jose early last Tuesday as 27-year-old Ronald Amaya Perez.

Perez was pronounced dead in the 300 block of Keyes Street after suffering at least one gunshot wound, San Jose police said.

Officers were called to the scene around 2:30 a.m. Tuesday, police said. When they arrived, they found Perez in critical condition. He passed away shortly afterward.

Officers obtained a description of a suspect vehicle seen fleeing the area after the shooting, according to police. They then located the vehicle and stopped it.

A 17-year-old boy was detained upon discovery he was a passenger in the suspect vehicle, police said.

The minor remains in Santa Clara County Juvenile Hall after a detention hearing on Friday afternoon and is being identified by the county district attorney's office only as Angel M.

He appears again in court on March 8, at which point it will be decided whether the boy will be charged as an adult.

No other suspects have been identified at this time.

An elderly man who died a day after being hit by a car while crossing a San Jose street last week has been identified, according to the Santa Clara County medical examiner's office.

Police reported to the scene at about 4:25 p.m. on Feb. 5 to a vehicle versus pedestrian collision call and found Gerard Mabie, 71, in critical condition.

Mabie was walking in a marked crosswalk from the east side of McLaughlin Avenue to the west side of Bellingham Drive when he was struck by a 2011 Nissan Versa, police said.

The driver, a 76-year-old woman, entered the intersection in an attempt to turn left when she struck Mabie.

Mabie was transported to a hospital but was pronounced dead the next day, police said.

The driver was not believed to have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol, according to police.

The case was the second pedestrian death on San Jose city streets in 2018, police said.

Anyone with information on the case should contact Detective Kevin McMillin of the Police Department's traffic investigations unit at (408) 277-4654.

The victim of a fatal collision near the community of Pajaro in unincorporated Monterey County on Friday evening has been identified, according to the Monterey County Sheriff's Office.

Watsonville resident Pedro Senties, 65, died from his injuries after colliding into another car on San Juan Road near Allison Street, just south of the border with Santa Cruz County, CHP officials said.

One of the vehicles involved was reportedly found in a ditch, but investigators have not clarified which car belonged to Senties.

More information about the case was not immediately available.

The victim who was found stabbed on Tesla Road in unincorporated Livermore in eastern Alameda County early this morning is a 19-year-old woman, a sheriff's spokesman said.

The woman was taken to Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley to be treated for the injuries, which are considered life-threatening, Sgt. Ray Kelly said.

The woman was found near Tesla Road about two miles west of the Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area early this morning, according to Kelly.

California Highway Patrol officials initially reported a collision was blocking Tesla Road in both directions in that area at 2:44 a.m.

Kelly said a motorist spotted the female victim on the ground in that area and the CHP and Alameda County fire officials responded.

The woman was airlifted to the hospital, he said.

Authorities hope to release more information about the stabbing later today, Kelly said.

San Francisco police said early this morning that they arrested a driver who allegedly fled from officers after crashing a vehicle into a building in the city's Mission District.

At 12:16 a.m., police said the driver hit another vehicle, a bus stop, then a building in the area of 16th and Church streets.

The male driver tried to run but he was apprehended by officers, police said. His name was not immediately released.

A Sonoma County sheriff's deputy arrested a wanted felon who allegedly led him on a pursuit Sunday.

On Sunday night, a deputy saw two people sitting in a vehicle and recognized one of them as Nathan Wilson, a wanted felon with a history of firearm possession, sheriff's officials said.

When the deputy approached the pair, Wilson allegedly fled. The deputy pursued Wilson, who ignored several commands to stop, sheriff's officials said.

The deputy then used a Taser stun gun to incapacitate Wilson.

While arresting Wilson, the deputy allegedly found a loaded firearm in his jacket pocket, sheriff's officials said.

The Monterey County District Attorney's Office announced last week that a Seaside man was sentenced to 30 years in prison for numerous offenses including two counts of human trafficking.

On June 12, 2016, a jury found 29-year-old Jerry Nickens Stringer Jr. guilty after listening to his two teenage victims testify against him in court, prosecutors said.

They testified that on June 9, 2015, when they were 17 years old, they accepted a ride from Stringer to drive from Sacramento to the Monterey Peninsula where they would visit friends and go to the beach.

Instead, Stringer drove the girls to East Market Street and Kern Avenue in Salinas and coerced them to walk the streets and make money, prosecutors said. He also took them to his mother's apartment in Seaside where he photographed the victims in sexual positions.

Stringer then used the photographs to create advertisements soliciting sex on a website called Backpage. Stringer then rented a Seaside motel room for the victims to exchange sex for money from people who answered the ad, prosecutors said.

The victims testified that one young man who answered the ad bought them food and offered to help them escape.

The following day, when Stringer took the girls back to the area of East Market Street in Salinas to make money, the girls called the young man. He told them to go to Hartnell College to hide among the students until they could get help.

Once at the college, a family friend picked them up, prosecutors said.

According to prosecutors, Stringer received a term of 15 years and four months in state prison for two counts of human trafficking, two counts of pandering, two counts of possession of child pornography, one count of using a minor to perform commercial sex acts, and two counts of sexual exploitation of a child.

Stringer's sentence was then doubled due to a prior conviction for robbery under California's three strikes law, bringing his sentence to 30 years and eight months.

Stringer must also register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. He was also given a restraining order prohibiting him from contacting the victims for 10 years, prosecutors said.

Anyone who suspects human trafficking activity can report it by calling the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888.Officers are investigating a possible murder-suicide that took place on Keith Avenue in Oakland Sunday morning, police said.

Officers responded to the 5800 block of Keith Avenue around 10:16 a.m. after getting a report of gunfire, according to police.

When the officers arrived, they heard a gunshot from inside a home. The officers found two people, a man in his sixties and a woman in her seventies, suffering from gunshot wounds.

Both the man and the woman succumbed to their injuries at the home despite the efforts of the Oakland Fire Department and Paramedic Plus, police said.

An investigation of the shootings is underway, according to police.

San Francisco police said they arrested an animal cruelty and auto burglary suspect thought to have tossed a Chihuahua to its death Saturday from the seventh floor of a parking garage.

Wakeen Best, 35, of San Francisco was arrested Sunday after a police sergeant spotted him near Polk and Bush streets.

Police said that at about 2 p.m. Saturday, officers responded to the 400 block of Stockton Street after someone called to report an auto burglary and a dead dog.

The victim had returned to that location to find Dunky, his 4-year-old Chihuahua in the hands of another person.

Dunky had been in the victim's car so the victim first thought Dunky got out of the car and fell from the seventh floor of the parking garage.

But instead the victim found that his vehicle had been broken into.

Police allege the victim found blood and broken glass throughout his vehicle and saw that someone had rummaged through the glove compartment.

When police arrived they allegedly found a trail of blood leading to a ledge where Dunky was thrown to the street below.

Police said they obtained video and audio evidence of the alleged offense from a dash camera.

Police said they recognized Best from previous encounters.

Animal Care and Control took Dunky into their care.

Police said they'll be seeking charges of burglary, animal cruelty, grand theft, possession of stolen property, carrying a concealed weapon, vandalism, a probation violation, possession of burglary tools, possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of a court order.

A San Francisco 49ers linebacker was arrested Sunday morning in Los Gatos on suspicion of domestic violence, possessing an assault weapon and making threats, police said.

Reuben Foster, 23, was arrested after police responded at 9:15 a.m. to a home on Shannon Road to do a welfare check and check on a possible disturbance.

Police said they spoke with the victim and Foster and as a result of an investigation Foster was arrested and taken to the county jail.

Foster was being held on $75,000 bail, according to county inmate records.

In a statement, officials with the San Francisco 49ers said, "The San Francisco 49ers organization is aware of the report regarding Reuben Foster. We take matters of this nature seriously and are gathering all pertinent information."

Police are investigating a homicide that occurred Saturday night in Vallejo.

At 10:34 p.m., police received a report of a solo vehicle accident near the intersection of Tuolumne Street and Hospital Drive.

Officers responded to the scene and found a man dead in the driver's seat of the vehicle. Based on his injuries, his death is being investigated as a homicide, police said.

The man's identity is not being released until his next of kin are notified, police said.

At least one person died Sunday morning in a traffic collision on westbound Interstate Highway 80 just east of Midway Road in unincorporated Solano County near Vacaville, according to California Highway Patrol officials.

The collision was reported at 12:38 a.m. and involved three vehicles, CHP officials said.

A 64-year-old man on a bicycle was hit by a car Saturday morning on Capitol Expressway in San Jose, police said.

Officers responded at about 9:30 a.m. to the collision near Capitol Expressway and Nieman Boulevard.

The bicyclist was riding south on Capitol Expressway just past Nieman Boulevard in the bike lane when he was struck by a silver 2002 Nissan Sentra also traveling south on Capitol Expressway.

Police said the bicyclist was taken to a hospital where he died.

The driver of the Nissan stayed at the scene and cooperated with officers.

Police said it does not appear that drugs or alcohol played a role in the collision. The victim's name will be released by the Santa Clara County medical examiner's office.

A pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries when they were hit by wind-driven debris Sunday afternoon in San Francisco's Mission District, fire officials said.

The injuries were reported at 2:54 p.m. at 23rd Street and San Jose Avenue.

Fire officials said another pedestrian was also injured by the debris. Their injuries were not considered life-threatening.

Both people were adults and both were taken to a hospital.

An Oakland carjacking suspect was arrested Sunday afternoon in Antioch after a pursuit and standoff, police said.

At 2:36 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers notified Antioch police that they were pursuing an armed carjacking suspect through Antioch.

The chase ended when the suspect stopped in the driveway of a home in the 4500 block of Elkhorn Way near Black Diamond Middle School.

Police said the suspect would not get out of the vehicle and would not comply with any orders given by the officers.

Police fired less than lethal ammunition into the vehicle and released a K-9 and the suspect was taken into custody without any more trouble.

No residents in the area or officers were injured. Oakland police came and took over the investigation.

First responders in Rohnert Park Friday saved the life of a young man suffering from an opioid overdose, police said.

Officers and firefighters went to a home on Racquet Club Circle around 11:15 a.m. in response to a call about an unresponsive man, according to police.

They found a 22-year-old man with symptoms of an opioid overdose. Public safety personnel administered Naloxone to the man, which countered the effects of the drug, and he regained consciousness, according to police.

The National Institution on Drug Abuse describes Naloxone as a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose, police said. It can quickly restore normal respiration to a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped as a result of overdosing with heroin or prescription opioid pain medications.

The 22-year-old man denied further medical treatment, police said. But he is alive now because of the quick response of the Rohnert Park police and fire units.

A man is in critical condition after he was shot Sunday night in Emeryville near the city's Amtrak station, police said.

Someone called police at 9:11 p.m. to report that a person was on the ground and bleeding on 59th Street near Horton Street.

Officers arrived to find a 26-year-old man had been shot and was unconscious. Police said the man was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The suspect ran away and is at large.

Police are asking anyone who was in the area of the shooting and saw any suspicious individuals to call them at (510) 596-3700.

Today will be sunny with highs around 60. North winds will be between 10 and 20 mph.

Tonight will be clear with lows in the mid 40s. North winds will be between 10 and 20 mph.

Tuesday will be sunny with highs in the upper 50s to mid 60s. North winds will be between 10 and 20 mph.SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)

San Francisco police said early this morning that they arrested a driver who allegedly fled from officers after crashing a vehicle into a building in the city's Mission District.

At 12:16 a.m., police said the driver hit another vehicle, a bus stop, then a building in the area of 16th and Church streets.

The male driver tried to run but he was apprehended by officers, police said. His name was not immediately released.SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)

A Recology worker died in an accident at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital on Friday morning, according to police.

The San Francisco medical examiner's office has identified 42-year-old Jeremy Gordon as the worker who died in the accident reported at about 6 a.m. Friday near Potrero Avenue and 22nd Street.

Recology spokesman Robert Reed said Gordon died while delivering a garbage compactor to the hospital. No other vehicles were involved in the accident.

Gordon had worked as a driver since 1994 and was a second-generation employee for Recology, which provides waste disposal services for San Francisco.

"He will be remembered by all of us as a genuinely nice person who always had a good word," Reed said. "Our hearts go out to his family and his fellow employee-owners across all the Recology companies."

Reed said Recology is cooperating in the investigations into the death by San Francisco police and the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health.The Monterey County District Attorney's Office announced last week that a Seaside man was sentenced to 30 years in prison for numerous offenses including two counts of human trafficking.

On June 12, 2016, a jury found 29-year-old Jerry Nickens Stringer Jr. guilty after listening to his two teenage victims testify against him in court, prosecutors said.

They testified that on June 9, 2015, when they were 17 years old, they accepted a ride from Stringer to drive from Sacramento to the Monterey Peninsula where they would visit friends and go to the beach.

Instead, Stringer drove the girls to East Market Street and Kern Avenue in Salinas and coerced them to walk the streets and make money, prosecutors said. He also took them to his mother's apartment in Seaside where he photographed the victims in sexual positions.

Stringer then used the photographs to create advertisements soliciting sex on a website called Backpage. Stringer then rented a Seaside motel room for the victims to exchange sex for money from people who answered the ad, prosecutors said.

The victims testified that one young man who answered the ad bought them food and offered to help them escape.

The following day, when Stringer took the girls back to the area of East Market Street in Salinas to make money, the girls called the young man. He told them to go to Hartnell College to hide among the students until they could get help.

Once at the college, a family friend picked them up, prosecutors said.

According to prosecutors, Stringer received a term of 15 years and four months in state prison for two counts of human trafficking, two counts of pandering, two counts of possession of child pornography, one count of using a minor to perform commercial sex acts, and two counts of sexual exploitation of a child.

Stringer's sentence was then doubled due to a prior conviction for robbery under California's three strikes law, bringing his sentence to 30 years and eight months.

Stringer must also register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. He was also given a restraining order prohibiting him from contacting the victims for 10 years, prosecutors said.

Anyone who suspects human trafficking activity can report it by calling the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888.The Solano County coroner's office has identified a passenger who died in a three-vehicle collision on westbound Interstate Highway 80 near Vacaville early Sunday morning as Ricardo Gamboa, 60, of Vallejo.

Gamboa was among four Vallejo residents who were traveling west in a Honda CR-V on Highway 80 east of Midway Road in unincorporated Solano County around 12:20 a.m., according to the California Highway Patrol.



Kohima, February 12 : Three times former Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphu Rio is declared uncontested win in the Nagaland assembly polls after Naga Peoples Front (NPF) candidate Chupfuo Kense had withdraw his nomination papers.





On Monday, Rio declared uncontested after withdrawal by Chupfuo Kense in Northern Angami-II seat.





Now, the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and BJP alliance 1 seat ahead in Nagaland assembly polls scheduled on February 27.





Rio, who led Nagaland for 11 years, deserted the Naga Peoples Front in January and joined in the newly formed political party Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP).





Ended up its 15-year tie with the NPF in Nagaland BJP had forged alliance with Rio led NDPP and also decided seat sharing on February 3 last.





Rios party had fielded 40 candidates of the states 60 Assembly seats while the BJP fielded 20 candidates.





A member of the powerful Angami Naga tribe, Rio was first elected to Nagaland Legislative Assembly in 1989 as a Congress candidate from the Northern Angami-II constituency inducted as a minister in SC Jamir-led government.





Rio was again elected from the same seat in 1993 as a Congress candidate and also appointed as minister.





Known as the tallest political leader in Nagaland, Rio was the Home Minister of SC Jamir-led government from 1998 to 2002 and he left Congress in 2002 because of ideological differences with the then chief minister SC Jamir.





After quit Congress, Rio joined NPF and became first CM of Nagaland in 2003 after the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) won the 2003 state elections, bringing to end the Congresss 10-year-long rule.





He again won from the Northern Angami-II seats in 2008 and 2013 and became CM.





With ambitions to enter in the national politics, Rio had contested in the 2014 general elections and elected to the Lower House and promised him to berth in the Union cabinet, but didn't and then he again come back to the regional politics and declared first winning candidate as uncontested in the 13th Nagaland assembly elections.



Kathmandu, Nepal: Dormani Paudel of the CPN UML has been appointed as the Chief Minister of the province 3 as per the sub-article 1 of Article 168 of the constitution of Nepal.





Anuradha Koirala, governor of Province 3, administered the Oath of Office and Secrecy to Poudel amid a function organized at the Office of Provincial Governor at Hetauda on Monday morning.



Kathmandu, Nepal; CPN UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli and the CPN Maoist Center Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal are holding a decisive meeting on Monday with the aim to end the outstanding issues related to the party unification and the government formation.





It is said that the top leaders of the two major communist parties are meeting at a house at Lalitpur from early morning on Monday with the aim to find out the amicable solutions ending the widening differences.





Though the two parties had formed electoral alliance in the recently held provincial assembly and federal assembly election on the name of leftist alliance even agreeing to unify the two parties before formation of the new government, differences on ranges of issues particularly the issue of leadership of to be united party has jeopardize the unity process even threading the prospect of forming the leftist government.





It is said that both the top leaders will settle the issue today. However, it is likely that the top leaders of the two parties would not be able to settle the entire issues seem on the issue of power sharing among the leaders from both the parties.





The Maoist Centre has been demanding that its chairman Dahal should be responsibility as Party Chairperson of to be united party if UML Chair Oli is to be the Prime minister of to be formed new government. However, the UML leaders including Oli are not willing to accept Dahal as the chairperson of the united party. It is said that Oi is willing to take the post of party chairman along with the post of Prime Minister.





It is said that UML has proposed Dahal as co-chair. But the Maoist Centre has abruptly rejected the proposal even threatening that it would backtrack from the party unity if UML do not abide the previous agreement. The Maoist Center has a claim that both the parties had agreed to share the top posts while forging electoral alliances.



A man is warning other Apple customers about their AirPods, after one of his personal pair of wireless headphones seemingly exploded during use at his gym.

Jason Colon was at LA Fitness in St. Petersburg, Fla. using his AirPods during a workout when he noticed that "white smoke started billowing out" of the headphones, he told local broadcast station WFLA.

Pulling the earbuds out, Colon said he placed them down on some workout equipment and looked for help from gym staff. When he returned, the right AirPod was found in pieces, while the left one was intact.

"It was already popped," Colon said. "I didn't see it happen, but I mean, it was already fried.

"You can see where it looks like there's flame damage," Colon said, pushing the AirPod around in his hand.

Apple told the news station that it would look into the cause behind the explosion, and contact Colon directly.

Apple Insider reported that explosions like this do happen when a battery becomes overheated, leading to other parts of an electronic  in this case, an AirPod  to become damaged and ultimately rupture the casing.

"I don't know what would've happened to my ear, you know?" Colon said of the incident. "But I'm sure since it hangs down, it could've been ear lobe. My ear lobe could've been burnt."

While this is one of the first known incidents affecting AirPods, last year one woman unfortunately found out what happens when a pair of battery-powered headphones explodes. This time the explosion happened when the owner wore the defective headphones on a flight in Australia, according to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.

The passenger heard a loud explosion and reported feeling a "burning on [her] face" causing her to take the headphones off and throw them to the ground. The headphones sparked and "had small amounts of fire" before being put out by flight attendants. The brand of the headphones weren't specified, but the woman sustained burns across her face, neck, lips and hand, CNET reported.

Apple is, however, notably having issues with its iPhone batteries overseas. In early January, a Zurich Apple store was temporarily closed after an iPhone battery began emitting smoke during business hours. Seven people were given medical attention at the scene, and one store employee received minor burns while removing the battery.

Apple did not immediately return SFGATE's request for comment.British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson met Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Sunday to discuss the Southeast Asian nations Muslim ethnic Rohingya minority and how almost 700,000 of them can be repatriated safely after fleeing to Bangladesh to escape violence perpetrated largely by Myanmars military.

A statement from Myanmars Foreign Affairs Ministry said Johnson and Suu Kyi discussed repatriation and developments in Rakhine, the western Myanmar state from where the Rohingya have fled over the past few months. Johnson arrived in Myanmar from Bangladesh, where he visited with Rohingya refugees.

Discussed importance of Burmese authorities in carrying out full & independent investigation into the violence in #Rakhine & urgent need to create the right conditions for #Rohingya refugees to return to their homes in Rakhine, Johnson wrote on his Twitter account of his meeting with Suu Kyi, who also serves as foreign minister.

The meeting took place in Naypyidaw, Myanmars capital.

The Rohingya have long faced severe discrimination and were the targets of violence in 2012 that killed hundreds and drove about 140,000 people  predominantly Rohingya  from their homes to camps for the internally displaced, where most remained until last years fresh violence, the scale of which has led to accusations that Myanmars army carried out ethnic cleansing or even genocide. Myanmars government has denied carrying out any large-scale or organized abuses against the Rohingya.

The government refuses to recognize the Rohingya as a legitimate native ethnic minority. Most Rohingya are denied citizenship and its rights.

I pay tribute to the hospitality and compassion shown by the government of Bangladesh, who are facing an enormous challenge in providing humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya community, Johnson said Saturday after visiting Rohingya refugees at Coxs Bazar in Bangladesh, on the border with Myanmar.

While I welcome steps by both the Burmese and Bangladeshi governments towards ensuring that these people can return home, it is vital that the Rohingya refugees must be allowed to their homes in Rakhine voluntarily, in safety and with dignity, under international oversight, and when the conditions in Burma are right, he said. Myanmar was previously known as Burma.MOSCOW  Tramping through knee-deep snow, hundreds of emergency workers searched a vast field near Moscow on Monday for remains of the 71 victims from the crash of a Russian airliner, as aviation experts began examining the jets two flight recorders.

Investigators quickly ruled out a terrorist attack in Sundays crash of the An-148 regional jet bound for Orsk in the southern Urals. The air disaster has reignited questions, however, about the twin-engine plane that was developed jointly by Russia and Ukraine but phased out of production amid the political crisis between the neighbors.

The model has a spotty safety record, with one previous crash and a string of major incidents in which pilots struggled to land safely. The carrier, Saratov Airlines, has grounded several other An-148s in its fleet pending the crash investigation.

The plane crashed several minutes after taking off from Moscows Domodedovo airport, and all 65 passengers and the crew of six were killed when the aircraft hit the ground and exploded in a giant fireball.

The Investigative Committee, Russias top agency for looking into such disasters, said that before the crash, the plane was intact and there had been no fire on board. Officials would not speculate on possible causes.

The planes fuel tanks exploded on impact, gouging a deep crater and scattering wreckage across about 75 acres, according to the Emergencies Ministry, which used drones to direct the search. Pieces of the plane and human remains were buried in deep snow; some debris was found in nearby trees.

Deputy Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkovich told a Cabinet meeting that emergency teams have recovered both flight data and cockpit voice recorders, key to determining the cause of the crash. Investigators said they already have started working on them.

President Vladimir Putin put off a planned trip to Sochi and stayed in Moscow to monitor the investigation. The Kremlin said U.S. President Trump called Putin to express his condolences.

Officials said the search for victims remains will take a week. The passengers ranged in age from 5 to 79, according to a list from the Emergencies Ministry. Most victims were from Orsk, where authorities declared Monday to be an official day of mourning.

Saratov Airlines said the jet had received proper maintenance and passed all the necessary checks before the flight. The plane was built in 2010 for a different airline that operated it for several years before putting it in storage. Saratov Airlines commissioned it last year.

Alexander Neradko, the head of Rosaviatsiya, the state agency overseeing civil aviation, said it will make a detailed review of Saratov Airlines operations.

Vladimir Isachenkov is an Associated Press writer.BEIRUT  The Syrian Kurdish militia partnering with the U.S.-led coalition to fight Islamic State militants said Monday that it is holding a huge number of foreign fighters in Syria and none of their home countries want them back.

The head of the Peoples Defense Units, or the YPG, Sipan Hemo, speaking to reporters in a conference call Monday, said more than half of those detained in the battle against Islamic State in Syria are foreign fighters from all over the world.

The future of those militants remains unclear and the process for bringing them to justice unsettled amid a debate, mostly in Europe, about whether they should be allowed to return home.

Hemo provided no figure for the number of detainees captured by his forces in Syria but added it was a burden to keep them. We suffer from the large number of Daesh detainees that we have now, Hemo said, using the Arabic acronym for Islamic State.

Hemo said there is a huge number of Islamic State foreign fighters and administrators. Most of them are from Russia, Europe and Arab countries, he said.

Hemo said his forces have formally asked foreign governments to take their nationals to be tried at home. Up until now, no one wants to take them back or to try them. We still have them in (local) prisons, he said. Honestly, we also dont know what their future will be.

For its part, the U.S. is urging allied nations to help deal with the growing number of detainees, saying they should be turned over to face justice in their home countries.

U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis is expected to raise the issue during a meeting in Rome this week with other members of the coalition.

Sarah El Deeb is an Associated Press writer.MANILA  President Rodrigo Duterte, the Philippine strongman who has earned a reputation for dirty tactics and language, was criticized Monday for having boasted that he had ordered soldiers to shoot female communist guerrillas in the genitals.

Tell the soldiers, Theres a new order coming from the mayor, the president said in a speech, recalling a directive he said he had given when he was mayor of Davao City. We will not kill you. We will just shoot you in the vagina.

Duterte made the remarks in a speech to former rebels last week, but the comments went largely unreported because he was speaking in his native Visayan language. He expressed exasperation that some women preferred joining the New Peoples Army, a communist rebel force that has been waging an insurgency since 1969, to raising children.

Since Dutertes remarks began circulating more widely, the criticism of his choice of words has been fierce.

It is just the latest in a series of misogynist, derogatory and demeaning statements he has made about women, said Carlos Conde, the Philippines researcher for Human Rights Watch. It encourages state forces to commit sexual violence during armed conflict, which is a violation of international humanitarian law.

Rep. Emmi de Jesus of the Gabriela Womens Party said that Duterte had, in effect, given the green light for soldiers to violate womens rights. He has further presented himself as the epitome of misogyny and fascism terribly rolled into one, she said.

This is not the first time Duterte had been criticized for crude remarks about women. During the presidential campaign in 2016, he made a joke about the rape and murder of an Australian missionary by inmates during a prison riot in 1989 in Davao City.

He has also used sexual jokes and rumors to attack women who have questioned his contentious and bloody war on drugs, including Leila de Lima, a senator and former justice minister who has been a vocal critic of his.

De Lima is in prison awaiting trial on what she says are trumped-up bribery charges.

Felipe Villamor is a New York Times writer.CAIRO  The United States and Egypt on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to battle Islamic militants in the Middle East as U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson held talks with Egyptian officials in Cairo at the start of his weeklong trip to the region.

Tillerson and his Egyptian counterpart, Sameh Shoukry, cited productive discussions on regional security and the struggle against the Islamic State group, whose Egyptian affiliate, based in the Sinai Peninsula, has struck military and civilian targets across the Arab worlds most populous country.In a powerful message before a global audience, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned the world against mankind fashioning tools of destruction through technology and misuse of cyberspace for radicalisation.



Addressing the sixth edition of the World Government Summit hosted by the United Arab Emirates government as the "Guest of Honour" this year, he also gave a clarion call to the world to unite on issues like long-distance online education through which poor children can be provided education.



In his keynote address on the last leg of his two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates, heard in rapt attention by Dubai's Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde packed to its capacity of over 1,000 in the auditorium, he also talked about humanity coexisting with nature and not in conflict with it.



Modi said poverty and malnutrition have not been wiped out from the world but still a large chunk of resources were being diverted towards augmenting missiles and other weapon technologies.



"Despite all the progress, poverty and malnutrition have not gone away from the world. On the other hand, a large sum of money is being spent on increasing the speed of missiles and (destructive) capacity of bombs. We have to be alert that we make technology an instrument of progress, not of destruction," he said.



He said governments should be alert to the challenges from changes in technology so that the use of technology remains constructive. "Technology is a gift whose user manual does not mention ethical values. The misuse of cyberspace for radicalisation is an example of abuse of technology by some people," Modi said.



The Prime Minister said that the cost of mistake of making technology an instrument of struggle with the nature is very heavy. "For the future of humanity, we do not need struggle with the nature but coexistence. There are six important steps, six 'R's on this path: Reduce, reuse, recycle, recover, redesign, and remanufacture. The destinations these will take us will be "rejoice" or pleasure," he said to the applause from the audience.



Noting that people are living in "interconnected, interlinked and interdependent" world, he said "our problems are indivisible and so are there solutions to a large extent."



"This is certain that the problems that the world will face in the coming decades, their solution will have to be found jointly and technology will play a big role in this," he said.



Calling the 21st century as the century of Asia, Modi said that it took thousands of centuries to make progress from the stone age to industrial revolution but the communications revolution took 200 years whereas the distance to digital revolution has been covered in a few years.



"Technology is changing at the speed of thought and necessity is no more the mother of invention. Inventions are giving birth to needs," he said.



The Prime Minister said technology has become a big instrument of "disruptive change" and has empowered the common man.



"Technology and its spread have empowered the common man and this empowerment has got strength from `minimum government, maximum governance. The 'e' of e-governance is the first alphabet of effective, efficient, easy, empower and equitable," he said.



He said technological achievements such as stem cells and regeneration techniques were not only showing the way for treatment of difficult diseases but in treatment of cases of damage to body limbs.



"Farmers can save their crop and increase its yield with advance weather information. Lives of millions can be saved through disaster management," he said.



Modi said he monitors the progress of infrastructure and other development works in the country every month through video conferencing and concerned states and central ministries are linked. "We call the programme 'Pragati' or progress," he said.



The Prime Minister said his government has created an innovation ecosystem in India via the Start-up India programme and India has become a start-up nation.



He said India's unique identity programme (Aadhaar) is the largest in the world and has stopped leaks of $8 billion.



Recalling the saying by Kautilya in Arthshastra, Modi said that rulers should ensure that improvement in technology is in the interest of people.

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A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much!Emtelle launches indoor pre-connectorised fibre microduct system

Low Fire Hazard QWKconnect MDU pre-connectorised fibre microduct system for internal use will be premiered at FTTH Conference 2018

Hawick, Scotland, February 12, 2018  Emtelle, a leading provider of blown fibre and ducted network solutions for the telecoms industry, today launched a ground-breaking new product to meet new indoor fire regulations.

Based on the QWKconnect pre-connectorised fibre microduct system, the new QWKconnect MDU is manufactured out of Low Fire Hazard (LFH) material, meaning it is suitable for internal use, giving excellent performance in a fire scenario.

The QWKconnect MDU uses QWKlink Fibre from the Emtelle FibreFlow brand, but comes pre-installed in a LFH microduct, and has the added benefit of pre-installed fibre connectors on both ends, eliminating the need to splice or blow fibres for FTTX drop applications. The QWKconnect MDU fibres 1.1mm diameter reduces the cost and complexity of installation and works by simply plugging in once installed.

\QWKconnect MDU allows us to offer our customers the most-up-to-date technology in terms of both cost-efficiency and industry regulations,\ said Scott Modha, International Business Development Manager at Emtelle. \Our popular QWKconnect is proven in the benefits it offers to our customers and now we can offer an extra dimension to this through the fully LFH, versatile QWKconnect MDU for internal use.\

The QWKconnect MDU can be installed from the basement, up the riser and connected to a simple termination box within the premise or apartment. The product also gives a future-proof, dedicated microduct pathway to each apartment to allow for future upgrades of the fibre.

\There is no other product on the market which provides such savings for an internal or ducted FTTH drop solution when quality needs to be high and installation needs to be cost-effective, simple and reliable. You simply \-\-Fit and Forget,\-\-\ said Mark Graham, Technical Engineer at Emtelle. \We are looking forward to showcasing this product for the first time at the FTTH Conference.\

The QWKconnect MDU will be just one of the products to be showcased by Emtelle at the FTTH Conference 2018, which takes place from tomorrow in Valencia. Visitors to Emtelle\-\-s stand G01 will also be invited to take part in a \-\-Blown Fibre Race\-\- which will demonstrate FiSpy by FiComms, for which Emtelle has become the premier distributor in Europe. The Blown Fibre Race winner will be presented with a FiSpy on the final day of the conference.

Emtelle\-\-s International Business Development Manager Scott Modha will also discuss how to improve the speed and efficiency of MDU installations for FTTH, even where fibre resources are limited, in the FTTH Conference Workshops on Tuesday, February 13 from 2pm to 5pm.Georgetown, SC (29440)

Today

Plenty of sunshine. High 84F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable.The "Boogie Man Nebula" haunts the cosmos in this deep-space image by astrophotographer Jeff Johnson.

Also known as Lynds Dark Nebula (LDN) 1622, this dark cloud of interstellar dust and gas lies about 500 light-years away in the constellation of Orion.

Johnson captured this splendid image of the Boogie Man Nebula from his backyard in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Creating this image took three attempts, as clouds and light pollution kept ruining his data, Johnson told Space.com. But he managed to make the most out of the data he had by combining the usable parts into one stellar portrait of this celestial Boogie Man. [Haunting Photos: The Spookiest Nebulas in Space]

Over this trio of attempts, Johnson collected a total of 5.3 hours of exposure. The resulting image combines H-alpha data (a wavelength of light emitted by glowing hydrogen) collected during his most recent imaging session on Nov. 24, and RGB (color) data from his first shot of the nebula taken on Feb. 11, 2016, Johnson said.

About a year after he took that first image, Johnson revisited the Boogie Man Nebula with a new telescope. But the image came out blurry, and too much light pollution made the color data unusable. When he tried again last November, the light pollution ruined his color data again, but the image came out sharper. "As luck would have it  clouds rolled in through part of the data session," Johnson said.

"Each attempt  takes me one hour of setup time, since I use a portable setup that I take down the next morning after every session," Johnson said. His setup includes a Takahashi TOA-130F refractor telescope and a QSI 540wsg cooled CCD camera equipped with a H-alpha filter and LRGB filter. For his first image in 2016, Johnson used a Takahashi FS-60C to capture a wider shot of the nebula.

Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.WASHINGTON  NASAs fiscal year 2019 budget proposal will include plans to end funding for the International Space Station in 2025, but leaves open the possibility of handing part or all of the station over to private operators.

The budget proposal, due to be released Feb. 12, will include a request for $150 million to support the development of commercial capabilities in low-Earth orbit to succeed the ISS, for which NASA could be a customer, according to an internal agency document obtained by SpaceNews.

As part of a congressionally-mandated ISS transition plan yet to be released, NASA examined several options for the station's future, according to that document. Those options ranged from continuing the ISS "as is" beyond 2024 to deorbiting the entire station, as well as options to operate the station as a public-private partnership or transfer parts of the station to a private platform. [From Ike to Trump: Presidential Visions for Space Exploration]

The approach the administration has chosen is one that would end NASA funding of the ISS in 2025, while offering support for the development of commercial successors. In support of enabling a timely development and transition of commercial capabilities in LEO where NASA could be one of many customers in the mid-2020s, the Administration is proposing to end direct Federal support for the ISS in 2025 under the current NASA-directed operating model," the document states.

The end of federal funding for the ISS would not necessarily mean the end of the station, or at least some parts of it, according to the document. "[I]t is possible that industry could continue to operate certain elements or capabilities of the ISS as part of a future commercial platform," it states.

The goal of that effort would be to have commercial facilities in operation by the time NASA funding for the ISS ends in 2025, with NASA potentially being a customer of those facilities to support its research needs, such as for exploration beyond Earth orbit. "It is the intent of NASA and the Administration to maintain seamless access to a human platform in LEO that meets NASAs and the Nation's goals," the document states.

Less clear is how such a plan would be coordinated with the stations international partners. Russia in particular has expressed an interest in developing its own space station after the ISS, potentially using some of the modules the country's space agency, Roscosmos, plans to add to its segment of the station in the next few years. The stations other key partners  Canada, Europe and Japan  have not strongly expressed either a desire to continue using the ISS beyond 2024 or supporting development of other facilities in LEO.

The NASA document notes that the stations international partners are each at a different state in planning for operations of the ISS beyond 2024. "NASA will continue to consult with the partnership regarding ISS transition in order to ensure consensus and the effective implementation of the ISS Program," the agency document states.

Any effort to end NASA operations of the ISS in the mid-2020s is likely to face strong congressional headwinds, based on comments made since rumors of the plan leaked last month. Several key members of Congress, representing both houses and both parties, have expressed opposition to the idea of ending station operations in 2025.

Among them is Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), chairman of the space subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee. "We have invested massively in the ISS. It has produced enormous benefits to the United States and the world, and we should use that asset as long as it is technologically feasible and cost-effective to do so, Cruz said in a Feb. 7 speech at the Federal Aviation Administrations Commercial Space Transportation Conference here. [Quiz! Do You Know the International Space Station?]

Asked after the speech if there was any chance the ISS would end in 2024, he said he didnt believe so unless there was a technical reason for ending the station at that point. However, Cruz left open the door to keeping the ISS operating after 2024 as a public-private partnership of some kind.

I think all of us are open to reasonable proposals that are cost-effective and that are utilizing the investments weve made in a way that maximizes their effectiveness, he said.

This story was provided by SpaceNews, dedicated to covering all aspects of the space industry.Don Lincoln is a senior scientist at the U.S. Department of Energy's Fermilab, the country's leading particle physics research institution. He also writes about science for the public, including his recent "The Large Hadron Collider: The Extraordinary Story of the Higgs Boson and Other Stuff That Will Blow Your Mind" (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2014). You can follow him on Facebook. Lincoln contributed this article to Live Science's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights.

Scientific discoveries come in many forms, like the surprise of radioactivity or the long search for the predicted Higgs boson. But some discoveries are mixed, with a hint in the data pointing to future measurements that can take years. A scientific study of the third kind is getting underway now, and the payoff for physics could be huge.

On Tuesday (Feb. 6), a collaboration of 190 scientists operating at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Illinois began using an array of magnets arranged in a ring 50 feet (15 meters) in diameter to make one of the most precise measurements ever performed. In this research, called the g-2 experiment (pronounced "g minus 2"), or just g-2 for short, scientists will measure what is called the anomalous magnetic moment of the rare subatomic particle called a muon, which is a heavy cousin of the electron and spins sort of like a top. The muon, however, exists for only 2.2 millionths of a second when at rest. [Beyond Higgs: 5 Elusive Particles That May Lurk in the Universe]

The magnetic moment, essentially a measurement of the strength of the magnet created by each muon, has been both measured and calculated to a precision of one part in 1012. That's like measuring the distance between the Earth and sun with a precision of a millimeter. Currently, the prediction and measurement do not agree, and this discrepancy might be the first hints of physics beyond the Standard Model, which is our current theory describing the subatomic world.

That would be a big deal, because physicists like me would be elated to punch a hole in the reigning theory. If such a hole is found, it will lead to a new and improved scientific model that does a better job than the existing one. Given that the existing theory is quite successful, this will be a real advance in knowledge.

When placed in a magnetic field, these little muons will precess, or wobble in a certain way. In a magnetic field, we can detect something called the precession frequency of the wobbling. This measure involves the charge of the particle and the g factor, which is used to distinguish between specific cases: In classical theory, g = 1, and in ordinary (e.g. non-relativistic) quantum theory, g = 2.

Just after World War II, measurements of g for electrons showed a small discrepancy from the theoretical "2" value, with the experimental result being 2.00232. This discrepancy arises from effects described by the theory of quantum electrodynamics, or QED. In order to focus on the discrepancy (0.00232), researchers subtracted off the "2," which is where the name for the experiment arises (g-2).

In quantum electrodynamics, we investigate, among other things, the existence of virtual particles, or what is sometimes called the quantum foam. Virtual particles are a bath of matter and antimatter particles that flicker into existence for a tiny fraction of a second and then disappear as if they never existed. They occur everywhere in space, but are especially important when they appear close to subatomic particles.

From 1997 to 2001, researchers at the Brookhaven National Laboratory, in Upton, New York, measured the muon's g factor with an accuracy of 12 significant digits and compared that result with theoretical calculations that achieved a similar accuracy. The two results disagreed. To understand the importance of the disagreement, you need to understand the uncertainty of both. (For example, if you asked which of two people was the tallest, if your measurement uncertainty for each person was 2 feet, or 0.6 m, it is unlikely that you could draw any conclusion.)

The difference between measurement and prediction, divided by the combined uncertainty (what scientists call the sigma) is 3.5. In particle physics, a sigma of 3.0 is considered evidence, but a true discovery requires a significance of 5.0.

Ordinarily, one would expect that the experimenters at Brookhaven would have improved their apparatus and collected more data, but there were technical hurdles that the lab couldn't overcome. So, the researchers decided to move the g-2 ring to Fermilab, which has an accelerator that could deliver more muons. The equipment was then shipped 3,200 miles (more than 5,100 kilometers) by barge down the Eastern Seaboard and up the Mississippi River. It arrived at Fermilab in July 2013. [The 18 Biggest Unsolved Mysteries in Physics]

In the intervening years, the ring was completely refurbished, with much-improved detectors and electronics. The new apparatus has superior capabilities. (Fun fact: There is a legend, repeated among some of Brookhaven's neighbors, that the laboratory housed a crashed flying saucer. Then, in the dark of night, a truck with a heavy police escort left the lab carrying a tarpaulin-enshrouded, 50-foot-across disk. Tell me that this didn't confirm those people's suspicions.)

The Fermilab g-2 collaboration has commenced operations. They will first commission the apparatus and then record data in earnest. Data taking will continue through early July.

So, what might the outcome be? If everything operates as expected, and if the value for g measured at Fermilab is the same as that from Brookhaven, the data recorded this spring at Fermilab could have a 5-sigma significance when combined with the data recorded at Brookhaven. That would mean a discovery.

On the other hand, the result measured at Fermilab could differ from the Brookhaven measurement. The new measurement might agree with calculation, in which case the discrepancy would go away.

But what if g-2 makes a discovery? What would be the likely outcome? As I mentioned before, the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon is very sensitive to the existence of nearby virtual particles. These virtual particles slightly change the muon's magnetic moment. Further, the ultraprecise agreement between measurement and calculation would not be possible if virtual particles didn't exist.

However, and perhaps obviously, the calculation used only known subatomic virtual particles. One possible explanation for the observed discrepancy is that additional, currently unknown subatomic particles exist in the quantum foam.

It is worth noting that, for decades, discoveries of subatomic particles were the province of highly energetic particle accelerators. Einstein's famous equation E = mc2 describes how energy and mass are the same. So, to discover heavy particles, you just needed a lot of energy to make them. Currently, the Large Hadron Collider at CERN is the world's most powerful accelerator.

However, the brute-force method of making particles isn't the only way to explore the high-energy realm. Heisenberg's uncertainty principle says that events that are energetically "impossible" can occur  if they occur for a short enough time. So, it is possible that virtual particles that do not ordinarily exist could flicker into existence just long enough to affect the muon's magnetic moment. If so, then a very precise measurement would reveal their existence. This is perhaps a situation where a scalpel works better than a sledgehammer, and perhaps the Fermilab-based g-2 experiment could beat the CERN LHC to the punch.

But first, a note of caution: The history of science is replete with examples of 3-sigma discrepancies that disappeared when confronted with additional data. So, nobody should bet on the outcome of this measurement. The discrepancy could simply be a statistical fluke. However, there is no question that the Brookhaven g-2 measurement could be the first indication of a paradigm-changing discovery. The data recorded this spring will be analyzed over the fall and could be reported in less than a year. While caution is clearly warranted, the first run of the g-2 experiment should be watched with keen anticipation.

Original article on Live Science.NASA's 2019 budget request formalizes the agency's handover of human-spaceflight activities in low-Earth orbit to private industry, in favor of a shift toward the moon.

The budget request, which was released today (Feb. 12), allocates about $19.9 billion to NASA, an increase of $370 million over last year's request. The proposal zeroes out funding for the International Space Station (ISS) in 2025 and allocates $150 million "to encourage development of new commercial low-Earth orbital platforms and capabilities for use by the private sector and NASA," according to the agency's budget overview.

The ISS could theoretically survive beyond 2025, if someone else picks up the tab; the budget request does not mention de-orbiting the $100 billion station when the government money runs out. [From Ike to Trump: Presidential Visions for Space Exploration]

The newly unveiled request gives some more details about NASA's plans to return astronauts to the moon, a focus that President Donald Trump made official with the signing of "Space Policy Directive 1" in December.

If all goes according to plan, the agency will launch a "power and propulsion space tug," a component of NASA's planned outpost in near-moon space, in 2022. And astronauts will launch on a mission around the moon, using the agency's Orion capsule and Space Launch System megarocket, in 2023.

The budget request "reflects the administration's confidence that America will lead the way back to the moon and take the next giant leap from where we made that first small step for humanity nearly 50 years ago," NASA acting administrator Robert Lightfoot said today in a "State of NASA" address at the agency's Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama.

NASA's 2019 budget proposal calls for an increased investment in missions and technology to return astronauts to the moon in the 2020s. Shown here: an artist's depiction of NASA's Deep Space Gateway in orbit near the moon. (Image credit: NASA)

On the science side, the budget continues support for high-profile planetary missions, such as the life-hunting 2020 Mars rover and Europa Clipper, which will investigate the habitability of Jupiter's ocean-harboring moon Europa.

But the proposed budget would cut the agency's planned Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope (WFIRST), which was targeted for launch in the mid-2020s to study mysterious dark energy, alien planets and a range of other cosmic phenomena. WFIRST was the top-priority large project in the most recent U.S. National Research Council Decadal Survey of Astronomy and Astrophysics, which came out in 2010.

WFIRST's cancellation is "due to its significant cost and [the presence of] higher priorities within NASA," according to the budget overview.

The budget also confirms the cancellation of five Earth-science missions proposed for termination last year. It provides no funding for the Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE) satellite; the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-3 (OCO-3) experiment; the Climate Absolute Radiance and Refractivity Observatory (CLARREO) Pathfinder; the Radiation Budget Instrument (RBI); or Earth-viewing instruments aboard the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR), a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/NASA spacecraft that launched in 2015.

NASA's Office of Education also gets the axe.

The budget request is just a proposal; it must still be approved by Congress. And there may be some changes coming, if the reaction of U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., is any guide.

"The administration's budget for NASA is a nonstarter. If we're ever going to get to Mars with humans on board and return them safely, then we need a larger funding increase for NASA," Nelson said in a statement, according to the Miami Herald.

"The proposal would also end support for the International Space Station in 2025 and make deep cuts to popular education and science programs," he added. "Turning off the lights and walking away from our sole outpost in space at a time when we're pushing the frontiers of exploration makes no sense."

Follow Mike Wall on Twitter @michaeldwall and Google+. Follow us @Spacedotcom, FacebookGoogle+. Originally published on Space.com.STAMFORD - This time Mother Natures recipe for potholes took three days to make.

It began with Sundays soaking rain and unusual winter warmth, followed by a sub-freezing Monday night and a Tuesday thaw.

Water that fell into cracks in the road expanded to ice, which can push through asphalt and crack it. The ice melts and cars drive over the cracks, collapsing them into holes.

The ingredients - water and see-sawing temperatures - are plentiful this winter, creating a large menu of potholes.

I drive down Hope Street zigging left and zagging right so I dont hit them, Glenbrook resident Marie Flynn said. I want to know what the city is doing about it.

Crews are patching potholes using two trucks equipped with hot boxes that keep asphalt heated so it adheres better to pavement, said Libby Carlson, special assistant to Mayor David Martin.

Connecticut asphalt plants are closed during the winter, so the trucks travel to a plant in New York almost daily to pick up hot asphalt, Carlson said. Together the trucks can lay down as many as 8 tons a day, she said.

Crews use cold patch, an ineffective repair because it doesnt last, only when hot asphalt is not available, Carlson said.

But there are five weeks left to a winter that has been a roller coaster for temperatures. Its been marked by multiple freeze-thaw cycles, sometimes with swings of 30 degrees.

The result is that most of the citys streets have potholes, said Bob Katchko, owner of Katchko & Sons, which has been paving residential and commercial properties in Stamford for 31 years.

The roads in Stamford were in rough shape going into the winter. Many of them have a lot of cracks, Katchko said. The water goes in, freezes and expands and lifts the asphalt up. Even frost will heave it up. A road with cracks will only get worse in winter.

Hes right about the condition of Stamford streets. In September the mayor said that, before he began his first term 2013, the city was spending about $3 million a year repairing roads, but the need was for twice that amount.

But he was able to devote the needed $6 million to repaving only last year, the final one of his term, Martin has said. He was re-elected in November.

To decide which streets to fix first, Martin, for $144,000, contracted with a company called Infrastructure Management Services to measure road surfaces and devise a priority list for the next two years.

The initial priorities included 125 of Stamfords 1,231 streets. About 40 were fixed last year.

Carlson said the hope would be that there arent any potholes on the streets that were just fixed, but the roads that havent been paved as recently may be affected by the temperature swings.

Pothole predictions

Pothole repairs begin in earnest after the areas asphalt plant opens, usually at the end of March or beginning of April, Katchko said.

The only plant between Greenwich and Bridgeport is O&G, and they dictate when they open, Katchko said.

Potholes are expensive to fix, damaging to cars, dangerous to motorists, and so despised that theres a website, www.pothole.info, devoted to news about them. The website offers Pothole Predictions for Winter 2017-18, which examines weather forecasts to point out areas likely to have a large number of potholes.

It predicts that New York and Boston - Stamford is right in between - will be cities where potholes might be costly, slow traffic, and lead to accidents in 2018.

Its already noticeable.

In Manhattan, a man this month filled potholes with soil and planted trees in them until the Department of Transportation stopped him. Coby Persin, a professional prankster, filmed his effort for his YouTube channel.

Carlson said Stamford highway department crews are seeing more potholes than usual.

Theres no indication it will end before spring. Temperatures are expected to continue bouncing like a car on a street full of holes.

The prediction for Tuesday night is 25 degrees. On Thursday its forecast to hit 58 degrees - or more than double in 36 hours.

Residents can request pothole repairs by calling the Citizens Service Center at 203-977-4140 or filling out a form on the citys website, www.stamfordct.gov.

acarella@stamfordadvocate.com.MADEIRA BEACH, Fla. (AP)  A couple who abandoned their workaday lives to buy a sailboat for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure instead lost almost everything when it sank on day two of their journey off Florida.

News outlets report that Tanner Broadwell, Nikki Walsh and their pet pug escaped injury when the 28-foot boat hit something and capsized Wednesday in the Gulf of Mexico near Madeira Beach. But the couple says just about everything else on the boat floated away.

"How do I have everything," Walsh told the Tampa Bay Times, "and end up in a s----- hotel with nothing?"

VIDEO: Whales surround a boat in amazing drone footage. Story continues below.

The couple had no sailing experience, save for some help from Broadwell's father.

They said they planned to escape modern life on the sailboat after leaving Breckenridge, Colorado, last year. Now Broadwell says they have no jobs, no savings and no place to go.

MORE: They gave up their apartments to travel in a van: Here's what this couple learned

Local boat captains say sandbars often shift in the channel in John's Pass where the sailboat capsized. In an interview with the Tampa Bay Times, the couple said they got confused while sailing at night, when the "red and green buoys seemed out of place, they said, and the shoal wasn't where their 2016-17 navigational charts said it should be."

MORE: This family of 13 sold everything to live on a boat

The boat sank in about nine feet of water and is still in the channel. The Coast Guard has informed the couple they must pay to remove and store the boat, a process that could cost up to $10,000.

"I'm not going to give up now," Broadwell told the Tampa Bay Times. "I'm going to get another boat down the road."B arclays boss Jes Staley had big plans for improving the banks somewhat besmirched reputation when he took over in December 2015.

The American wanted to run a values-driven organisation which conducts itself with integrity at all times, and tackle the legacy issues plaguing the company for a decade or more.

On the first count hes made a poor start, breaking the rules in his hunt for a whistleblower last year. On the second, the answer seems to be not at any price.

One reason why the Serious Fraud Office probe into the Qatari farrago has taken so long is that Barclays  under previous management  initially fought the fraudbusters in court to prevent them getting hold of around 100,000 files, before eventually waiving its claim to legal privilege.

Now, despite six months of toing and froing between the bank and the regulator, the bank has ended up with another potentially damaging charge against it.

My guess is that both sides have been trying to reach some sort of agreed settlement  involving admission of liability plus a big fine.

That would have drawn a line under the issue for the banks current management and, from the SFOs point of view, avoided an expensive trial while getting a hefty collar for outgoing chief David Green.

Whether or not a settlement might have been considered, going to court is a risky route. Its the same strategy that Barclays took just over a year ago when it refused to settle with the US Department of Justice over mis-sold toxic mortgage bonds.

Charges against the operating company are an issue because if convicted, it might impair the banks regulatory approvals and ability to do business elsewhere around the world. And to be frank, having a trial hanging over you isnt a good look reputationally.

It invites yet more detailed scrutiny of the bank in the fevered atmosphere of a legal circus.

It also distracts management just when they should be thinking about things like the issues thrown up by Brexit.

And while all this is going on, investors are putting up with a share price lower when the American joined and are beginning to look askance.

Barclays needs to clean the slate and tidy up these legacy issues once and for all.

If I were Staley Id be trying to cut my losses, not saddling up for the courtroom.

A long way to go

City superwoman Helena Morrissey reckons, according to the title of her new book, that its A Good Time to Be A Girl.T he Serious Fraud Office on Monday upped the pressure on Barclays as it hit the bank with a new criminal charge over its 12 billion Qatari fundraising in 2008.

The fraudbusters have levied a charge of unlawful financial assistance against Barclays Bank PLC, the group operating company, after charging the holding company last summer.

The latest charge against the operating company is significant because it increases the risk that Barclays loses its banking licence, in effect putting it out of business.

Barclays turned to Qatar for cash in the financial crisis, allowing it to avoid a UK government bailout.

As part of that deal, Barclays loaned 2.3 billion to sovereign wealth fund Qatar Holdings, which the SFO claims is against the law.

Barclays intends to fight the charges but does not expect there to be an impact on its ability to serve its customers and clients as a consequence of the charge having been brought.

The SFO made its initial allegations after a five-year investigation last summer. In July it brought fraud charges against four former executives, including then chief executive John Varley, as well as the holding company, Barclays PLC. Bank watchers say todays charges are a way of pressing the bank to settle at least part of the allegations.

A second $1 billion civil lawsuit between financier Amanda Staveleys PCP Capital Partners, who is suing the bank for alleged deceit over its Qatari fundraising, has been postponed until after the criminal trial. Barclays is facing lawsuits such as a battle with the US Department of Justice over mis-sold mortgages.

The SFO is under pressure to secure a big conviction. Last week its trial of several Tesco executives collapsed when one of the accused had a heart attack. It is not clear if this case will be re-trialled. Lawyers say it is not impossible that Barclays will settle the case, depending on how hard the fraudbusters push the bank.T he City backed Tesco on Monday to make a success of a new discount chain as it attempts to battle rivals Aldi and Lidl.

The retailer is reportedly looking to create a string of stores which could scupper the German discounters' growth in Britain.

Analysts backed Tesco to do well despite Sainsburys failed attempt to make its low-cost Netto brand work. Sainsburys ditched its joint venture with the brand after just two years in 2016, saying it needed too much cash to expand rapidly.

Tescos foray into the low-cost supermarkets industry could take oxygen away from the discounters, Bernsteins retail analyst Bruno Monteyne, a former Tesco executive, said on Monday.

Tesco has drafted in advisers from Boston Consulting Group to help launch a cheaper brand, The Sunday Times reported, as Aldi and Lidl continue to grab market share from larger grocers. Tesco declined to comment.

A discount banner makes sense, allowing Tesco to segment the market, said Monteyne, pointing to Loblaw, Canadas largest food seller.

Loblaws strategy to have different stores tailored to local areas and competition is a lucrative one; however, more stringent pricing restrictions at home could throw a spanner in the works for Tesco, he warned.

Aldi and Lidl are growing almost exclusively by opening more shops as same-store sales remain stable. With Tesco possibly gobbling up space for its own discount brand, their expansion plans could be derailed in some areas, Monteyne added.

The grocer is preparing to finalise its 3.7 billion takeover of cash-and-carry chain Booker.

Charles Wilson, Bookers chief who was named the boss of Tescos UK business last week, recently said that Booker sells at prices below the discounters, giving it a good shot at taking them on.

The new venture is unlikely to dent Tescos revenues as the company intends to be capital disciplined post merger, Wilson said. It will probably use existing space and resources initially.E lon Musk: super-rich tech titan on a mission to colonise Mars. Me: overdrawn journalist struggling to meet a deadline.

On the face of it, we dont have a huge amount in common  yet last week I felt a momentary kinship with the Tesla CEO (estimated worth: $20.4 billion).

Not, you understand, when his SpaceX rocket blasted into orbit but rather two days later, when his 69-year-old mother Maye appeared on the catwalk at New York Fashion Week, promptly upstaging her son.

Ah Elon, I know the feeling. Just when you think launching the largest US rocket since the Seventies will afford you a familial monopoly on global adulation, along comes your mother and steals your thunder by wearing sequins in a charity fashion show. Alas, such is the lot of us Real Life Saffys. No matter how worthy and important ones achievements, like Edina Monsoons dowdy daughter in Ab Fab, were destined to be outshone by our more dazzling seniors.

My own mother, a former actress, has always been infinitely more glamorous than me. Picking me up from school, Id find her  all jangling bangles, kohl-rimmed eyes and Chanel No 5  surrounded by a suspicious number of classmates fathers. When I was a teenager, shed despair at my studious ways, urging me to hitch up my skirts and just TRY a little lipstick.

Thanks to her turn in Confessions of a Window Cleaner, I long ago accepted that romantic partners would have seen her undressed before me.

Now in her 70s, age has not diminished her. The opposite, in fact  online, the mildly saucy horror films in which she specialised have developed a cult following. As tribute montages proliferate on YouTube, she travels the country vamping it up in leopard print at fan conventions.

The result is that, like Elon, Im accustomed to playing second fiddle. But would I change things? Of course not. Because, while life as a RLS may have its drawbacks, that doesnt mean Im not bursting with pride at my glam mama (also, the vintage Biba and Ossie Clark hand-me-downs are next level).

So Elon, if youre reading, dont feel too downhearted. We all have our cross to bear, and, at least when it comes to being outshone by your mum, youre not alone.

Dull McMafia ends with a bang but Norton is no Bond

Farewell, then, McMafia, possibly the most underwhelming programme ever to grace our television screens. Wholly implausible, actually quite dull and frequently confusing, it had me tuning in each week primarily to see if it ever improved.

In fact it did, in the final two episodes, though not enough to compensate for the hours already lost to it.

Still, poor old James Norton; his role in the crime drama, which ended last night, had been hyped as an audition for Bond. But after a performance in which his facial expression appeared set permanently to inscrutable, Im not sure he should count his chickens.

Then again, perhaps its a lucky escape: whod want to be Bond in a post-#MeToo world?

A franchise in which women are primarily scantily clad lovers does not an easy Times Up bedfellow make.

Meanwhile, in an interview at the weekend Rachel Weisz dismissed the idea of a female 007, saying women should get their own stories.

At this rate, her husband Daniel Craig will still be in the role 20 years from now.

Frozen faces owe nothing to Botox

At the coldest Winter Olympics for 20 years, athletes are taking increasingly dramatic measures to stay warm.

With temperatures in PyeongChang predicted to sink to -15C, Team USA have battery-powered parkas courtesy of Ralph Lauren, the Canadians have heated snow pants, and the Norwegians woolen underwear and hot chocolate.

Various alpine skiers, meanwhile, have been coating their faces in tape for extra insulation.

Hey, every little helps. Who cares if it makes them look like the love child of Hannibal Lecter and The Invisible Man  as winter drags on (and on), surely its a matter of time before the look takes off here too.

Londoners rally in a leaky crisis

It was not quite the housewarming Id planned  but looking at the crowd assembled in my living room at midnight on Tuesday I felt a rush of affection.

With water pouring through my ceiling from a leak in the flat above, the other residents of the building had raced to help.

It was the first time some of us had met but no one seemed to mind the late-night disruption. By dinner time the next day the leak had been fixed, and the mess (mainly) cleared up.T he scandal now enveloping charities and overseas aid agencies  with allegations of sexual harassment and worse  has caused an eruption of shock and outrage. Outrage, yes  but shock?

The central case of Oxfam  where workers are alleged to have used prostitutes, some of whom were under age, in Chad and Haiti  seems to speak to a culpably carpet-sweeping culture in at least one charity. But that a minority of aid workers behave badly when they think theyre off the leash? The only surprise is that we are surprised.

My Spectator colleague Mary Wakefield wrote a fine and fierce article recently arguing that, as an enabler of sexual abuse, the United Nations makes Hollywood and the Trump White House look like amateur hour.

All of it is well documented. A 2004 memoir by three UN workers, Emergency Sex and Other Desperate Measures, detailed abuses.

Mary mentioned several since: rape-for-food in the Central African Republic; a child sex ring in Haiti; systematic child abductions in Kosovo. Whistleblowers have been suspended or sacked. Yet, as she pointed out, none of Manhattans #metoo marchers took much interest in the big building on 1st Avenue and East 42nd Street. Was her article much picked up? It was not.

This bears out a point first made by Aristotle: that ethos, the way the public sees a person or organisation, hugely skews how they will interpret them.

We think of charities, foreign aid workers and international peacekeeping bodies as good things  and therefore presume they are staffed by good people. We give them the benefit of the doubt. Regardless of the good they do, the exact opposite should be the case.

They should be scrutinised more closely precisely because we are so inclined to think well of them.

Look at it from the other end of things. If youre the sort of person who wants access to a large number of vulnerable young people with the minimum of scrutiny, and ideally with an unimaginable advantage of power and money over your victims, what situations will attract you?

In the past, boarding prep schools and the Catholic church have been popular choices but were a global world now. Why mooch around the school gates with a packet of Werthers Originals when you can sign up for aid work in a famine or conflict zone?

Youre showing these young people love and affection, of a kind, and putting money in their pockets. Is anyone really going to say youre the bad guy?

Not only do you enjoy the protective presumption of goodness that comes from your association with charity or aid work, you perhaps apply it to yourself: the good you do for these people, you tell yourself, outweighs the harm. Youre showing these young people love and affection, of a kind, and putting money in their pockets. Is anyone really going to say youre the bad guy? Evil doesnt, as a rule, think of itself as evil. It makes excuses for itself.

You dont find the bad guys under rocks, theyll more likely be under halos. And to hell with the idea that reporting this stuff damages their good work. If the reputations of charities are damaged by journalistic exposes, thats on the charities for not keeping their houses in order in the first place.

The pedants are revolting over the plight of the Tories

Tory donor Sir John Hall has warned that the Conservative Party will be decimated at the next election if Theresa May doesnt show a bit of backbone.

Here, he enters a minefield. Pedants up and down the country will leave off writing pro-Brexit letters to newspapers to wonder, sneeringly, whether he can really mean that one Conservative MP in 10 will be executed in the manner of a punishment for a mutinous Roman legion.

He means destroyed or annihilated, theyll say with infinite self-satisfaction, not decimated.

But, ah, pedants: we dont use decimate to mean execute one person in 10 any more, because we dont do that any more.

We no longer need the word in that sense, so it has acquired a new one. And  whether were in Europe or out of it  thats a mark of progress, if you ask me.

Kim sets the limit on public sympathy

In happier times?: Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Cattrall / Dave Benett

I dont need your love and support at this tragic time, @sarahjessicaparker, she wrote, adding: You are not my family. You are not my friend.

She accuses her of exploiting our tragedy in order to restore your nice girl persona.

Yikes. Why the public slapdown? Apparently the medium through which SJP chose to offer condolences was television.

Sometimes a private exchange of letters is the way to go, even for celebs.

You can change your mind, you know

Theresa Mays chief Brexit negotiator, Oliver Robbins, is the subject of a gotcha story claiming that as a student he was a Euro-federalist known to contemporaries as Sir Humphrey.

Cant people change their minds? Andrew Marr was a student Maoist, that proud reactionary Peter Hitchens was a member of the International Socialists, Paul Johnson was an old soixante-huitard and May thought Brexit was a bad idea two years ago.The red carpets hottest breakthrough fashion talent ensured his star status shone brighter than ever last night as Brandon Maxwells latest kilowatt after-dark offering took its turn in the New York Fashion Week spotlight.

Best known as the long-time stylist of Lady Gaga, Maxwells brand of old-Hollywood glamour for the next-gen A-list has made him a go-to amongst those with a thirst for standing out from the crowd.

True to form, subtlety was not a priority in yesterdays showcase, held in The Appley Room of Manhattans iconic Time Warner Centre against a dramatic backdrop of the citys rain-swept skyline.

But while attention-grabbing statement pieces capable of appeasing the music industrys most extrovert mega-star is Maxwells USP, elegant uptown eveningwear has become his brand's bread and butter since its launch just over two years ago.

Getty Images

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First on the catwalk was Bella Hadid, who opened the show wearing a floor-sweeping grey wrap coat, accessorised with a set of knockout crystal earrings and a gold pineapple-shaped bag just big enough to fit a lipstick.

From there, the show progressed to include razor sharp tailoring and head-turning power dresses as models shimmied and sashayed down the catwalk to Whitney Houstons Queen of the Night.

Getty Images

And as the Insta-glam options came thick and fast, so too did the models with the star power to match them.

It-girl Adwoa Aboah took a turn in a black sequin leopard print minidress and cropped jacket. Fellow Brit Jourdan Dunn slinked out in a high-split grey sequin column dress, while American beauty Karlie Kloss sizzled down the catwalk in a strappy black flared jumpsuit with a bow-tie waist.

Getty Images forNew York Fashion Week: The Shows

Banana-yellow cocktail dresses, sequinned trousers and plush velvet tuxedos were also among the most dressed up options for night owls. But there was a more relaxed side to his offering too, with crisp white cotton shirts teamed with split-skirts and even the odd pair of jeans peeking out above knee-high boots.

Getty Images "The American people have spoken: Reform our criminal justice system" | Main | "Yes, Trump is embracing criminal justice reform" 

this Roll Call article suggests Senators cannot figure out how to break a "logjam" that is created by the Attorney General and Prez Trump. The Roll Call article is headlined "Senators Ponder How to Break Criminal Justice Logjam: With Trump not on board with bipartisan bill, 'were stuck,' Grassley says," and here are excerpts:

Senate Judiciary Committee members grappled Thursday with the best strategy to overhaul the nations criminal justice system, since the leading bill has broad bipartisan support but the White House apparently backs only one part of it.

Chairman Charles E. Grassley of Iowa set a markup next week for a bill that represents a hard-negotiated compromise  first struck in 2015  that backers say would pass the Senate with a bipartisan supermajority if brought to the floor. It is expected to easily advance from the committee and could be a signature legislative accomplishment for the Senate.

A broad and politically varied coalition of lawmakers and advocacy groups off Capitol Hill generally back the overhaul, which has two main components. One section aims to reduce sentences for nonviolent drug offenders, and the other aims to ease re-entry for prisoners.

But Majority Leader Mitch McConnell didnt bring a version of the legislation to the floor in the last Congress because of opposition to the sentencing section from law enforcement groups and some Republican senators, Majority Whip John Cornyn of Texas told the committee Thursday. And now, President Donald Trump has voiced support only for the prison changes.

Cornyn, the Senates No. 2 Republican leader, said, I honestly dont see a path forward this year for the broader bipartisan bill. Im worried that if we just revisit the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, which failed during the Obama administration, given this change in the new administration and its views on the sentencing reform component of it, were going to have nothing to show for our efforts, said Cornyn, using the bills formal title. I know we all tried to work together on this and it just didnt work out.

Instead, Cornyn said the committees best opportunity to move a criminal justice bill would be his legislation, proposed along with Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah and Democratic Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, which contains only provisions aimed at easing re-entry for prisoners  and then building on that as we can with an amendment process on the floor. That process could include amendments on sentencing, based on a bill introduced in previous sessions by Lee and Democratic Whip Richard J. Durbin of Illinois.

Grassley responded that the compromise bill would be the best way to get the sentencing and prison provisions into law. The measure currently has 19 co-sponsors, and he said the backers are seeking more. Its a matter of process and around here  nothing gets done unless its bipartisan, Grassley said. And I dont often agree with Sen. Durbin, but we put together a bill that we worked really hard and we think its the only way of advancing both bills.

Whitehouse said he would support both ways of moving forward since the sentencing bill was proposed five years ago, but that Cornyns strategy actually might provide a more realistic way of getting this matter resolved. The Senate, however, could end up in the same place if the prison bill gets to the floor and then a supermajority of senators add the sentencing portion back in with an amendment, Whitehouse said. Waiting here for there to be the ultimate global concord to sort this out has yielded five years of nothing and Im ready to go forward, Whitehouse said.

Grassley countered, however, that there could still be senators who would block the prison bill from the floor if they knew there were more than 60 senators supporting a sentencing amendment. Thats what we face, Grassley said. Theres some people around here [who] are just a little bit afraid of what you call an Assistant U.S. Attorneys Association and theyre stopping everything from being done that is so successful in the other states. When people are willing to stand up to those leaders of the Senate, well get something done in both areas.F ancy a super spa in Africa? Take the train. Not any train, mind you. The one you want is Rovos Rail, where embarcation begins at Cape Town in South Africa  the fairest cape, as Sir Francis Drake said  and ends 15 days later in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

It is an indulgence of luxury on wheels, involving bush gear by day and Hermes ties at night. Ladies will likely wear Shimansky diamonds they bought in Cape Town. This is new-wave travel, where you (gently) rough it by day and dine in state in the evening.

Two nights in Tau Lodge on the border of Botswana, are en route. The first day we lunched by a waterhole with two white rhinos and the next day in the company of a giraffe, while nearby zebras fought off a pack of hyenas. On game drives we encountered huge lions and had sundowner cocktails, while our cottage overlooked a waterhole thronging with elephants and a crocodile. Equally enjoyable was the spa, where I had the best pedicure ever, followed by a massage that left me begging for more.

But Rovos Rail was waiting, and so was the track through Gaberone, capital of thriving Botswana, where a branch of Barclays Bank appeared to have survived an onslaught of gleaming, newly built office towers.

Then Zimbabwe, land of a brave people who are coming out of the Mugabe years and looking forward to a recovery economy with tourism doing well judging by the full house at the Victoria Falls Hotel, a colonial-style treasure reminiscent of the Raffles of old.

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At sundown there are few places to match the terrace bar overlooking the graceful bridge built on the orders of Cecil Rhodes (the same engineers later built the Sydney Harbour bridge).

On our trip, old Africa hands and millennial tourists swapped stories about travel  and what constitutes an adventure. Such as the woman in a tented camp who phones the ranger at midnight to say: Theres a lion here! To which the ranger replies: Madame, is it outside your tent or inside your tent?

Then came the Victoria Falls experience, which began with a fine statue of David Livingstone, the first European to come here in 1855. Even today, when colonial-era monuments are being toppled from the Cape to Cairo, Livingstone is a revered figure and known to all school children in southern Africa.

Words cannot describe the sight, sound and spray that awaits the visitor at Victoria Falls.

And so the train carried on, stopping briefly on the falls to watch an American tourist bungee jumping to within a heartbeat of the crocodile-infested Zambezi. Rovos Rail trundled across Zambia and Tanzania, through the luxuriant Rift Valley with its baobab trees, and the huge Selous Game Reserve, where a final game drive was offered. Armchair travellers enjoyed comfortable lounges, including an open observation car, where the young staff served drinks in crystal glasses.

Meals brought everyone together  on our trip just a happy band of 35  in the elegant dining room, whose teak pillars and wall lights delivered a clubby atmosphere that bubbled along on a tide of connoisseur-class Cape wines such as Bouchard Finlayson chardonnay and Diemersfontein pinotage.

Finally, after 3,568 miles, we reached Dar es Salaam. Tantalisingly close were Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti. Not that those were on my itinerary, but going home was hard to do.P olice are hunting for a man who tricked a 92-year-old into handing over 10,000 after convincing him he worked for an anti-fraud team.

The vulnerable pensioner received a call from the man who told him he was phoning on behalf his banks Fraud Squad.

They arranged to meet twice in St Johns Wood, before the victim handed over thousands of pounds to the suspect.

By the time the pensioner realised he had been the victim of fraud it was too late.

Police in Westminster have now released CCTV footage of a man they wish to speak with in connection with the incident.

Appeal: Police are hunting for a man wanted in connection with the crime

He is described by the victim as being of Middle Eastern appearance and in his late twenties.

Detective constable James Kapp said the suspect targeted an elderly man by calling him on 5 December, and convincing him that he worked for 'The Barclays Fraud Squad'.

"Meetings were arranged in the St John's Wood area on 5 December and again on 6 December, and the victim handed over around 10,000 to the suspect, he said.

Police issued guidance stating that police and banks will never ask for PIN numbers or bank cards and will not arrange to meet to exchange money.

The guidance states that anyone who is contacted by someone who asks for these should hang up and report such calls to police on 101 by using a different phone or, if that is not possible, waiting five minutes for the line to clear.

If you have elderly friends or relatives, please remind them periodically of the methods used by such fraudsters, the advice states.J eremy Corbyn was today under growing pressure to come off the fence on Brexit and abandon his strategy of deliberate ambiguity about leaving the European Union.

Writing in tonights Evening Standard, former Labour shadow chancellor Chris Leslie said: A sheepish silence in the hope that Brexit will just pass us by will not work any longer.

Calling on Labours leader to whip the 262 Labour MPs behind a job-saving vote to keep Britain in the EU customs union, he said it would be unforgivable to do nothing in the face of evidence that the poor would be hit hardest from leaving the frictionless trading bloc.

Taking a path of deliberate ambiguity in the hope we wont offend anyone is not the principled stance that the vast majority of Labours membership expect from this leadership team, writes Mr Leslie.

This is the defining issue of our times and it is not going to go away. We have a responsibility to prevent the austerity that will hit the poorest hardest.

Other senior Labour figures also warned that Labours new mass membership of idealistic young activists would become disillusioned if Mr Corbyn failed to act in case he offended Leave voters in the partys old heartlands.

Former shadow communities secretary Emma Reynolds urged Mr Corbyn to let the membership vote on a Brexit strategy. Jeremy Corbyn has always been keen on involving party members in policy-making so I dont see why not, and we should discuss it at our next party conference because we didnt discuss it last year. 

Will Dry, of pressure group Our Future, Our Choice said Labours stance was morally dubious and politically empty. He said most young Labour activists assumed Mr Corbyn was opposed to Brexit and would be disenchanted if he did not fight it.

Meanwhile, Australia officials today warned that a customs union with the EU would hamper a future trade deal with the UK.

High Commissioner Alexander Downer said the two countries could do substantially more trade but only if Britain was free from EU rules.

If you remain in the customs union then you would have no control over an independent trade policy, he told the BBCs Today.

Chuka Umunna and Anna Soubry on Brexit

A poll last week revealed Labours vote share would tumble from around 42 per cent to just 30 per cent if the party was seen to side with Conservatives in going ahead with Brexit - allowing the Tories to win a general election with a 12-point lead.

It comes as plans for a Commons vote instructing Mrs May to try to stay in the EU customs union were announced by former shadow business minister Chuka Umunna and Tory former Business Minister Anna Soubry.

In a bid to regain the initiative on Brexit after weeks of public Cabinet tensions, the Prime Minister is preparing two keynote addresses this month.

Speeches will also be made by three Brexiteers - Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, Brexit Secretary David Davis, and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox - plus Remain-backer David Lidington, the Cabinet Office Minister.

Mrs Mays first address on post-Brexit UK-EU security will be made in Germany next Saturday.

Another speech in three weeks will set out her negotiating stance, following a special away day summit of the Brexit war Cabinet at Chequers.

Mrs May met Irish premier Leo Varadkar today for talks on ending the 13-month political stalemate in Northern Ireland. They were also likely to discuss how to avoid a hard border in Northern Ireland.Party time!

The party is already in full swing on the streets of Windsor as the first trains chug in from across the capital.

It was standing room only on services from Slough where the station had made spectators feel welcome with a sign celebrating the nuptials.

The dot matrix board said: "All aboard the royal wedding special to Harry & Meghan Central."

Many of the voices chatting excitedly on the trains had American accents, including Christine Clancy from Virginia.

Her thumbnails were painted with the Union flag and she sported the British flag on her shoes.

Ms Clancy said: "I've always been a royal fan - not an extreme one - I just love British history and love the royals. I just wanted to be part of the wedding celebration.

"It would have been nice if Meghan's dad was walking here down the aisle, everyone was expecting her mum to do it, but Charles - he'll be able to do it with his eyes closed."

Leila Souza, 67, and Adela Welch, 63, travelled from Tampa, Florida to watch the wedding.

The pair have booked a "VIP spot" in a cafe along the procession route to ensure a good view of proceedings.

They have made a sign featuring a picture of Princess Diana on her wedding day, with the words "here in spirit".

Ms Souza said: "When she died Prince Harry was just a little child. We all grieved.

"His mother will be very, very happy today, so she's here in spirit."

Some of the 2,000-plus members of the public who were invited by the couple to watch the day have already begun arriving at the castle.S cotland Yard detectives investigating the disappearance of Maddie McCann have asked for more money to continue the search for her.

The Home Office confirmed on Monday that it is considering an application for more money to keep the probe, called Operation Grange, going.

A spokeswoman said: "The Home Office has provided funding to the Metropolitan Police for Operation Grange and the resources required are reviewed regularly with careful consideration given before any new funding is allocated."

Government funding for the investigation has been agreed every six months, with 154,000 being granted from October last year until the end of March.

Madeleine McCann - In pictures 1 /25 Madeleine McCann - In pictures Madeleine McCann Maddie disappeared in 2007 PA Kate and Gerry McCann, whose daughter Madeleine disappeared from a holiday flat in Portugal ten years ago, during an interview with the BBC's Fiona Bruce at Prestwold Hall in Loughborough PA Screen grabbed image taken from the Official Find Madeleine Campaign Facebook page of a message from Madeleine McCann's parents, Gerry and Kate, who has described the tenth anniversary of her daughter's disappearance as a "horrible marker of time, stolen time" PA Ocean Club in Praia Da Luz The Ocean Club in Praia Da Luz where Madeleine McCann disappeared Kate and Gerry McCann Kate and Gerry McCann with a computer image of how their missing daughter Madeleine might look Reuters Maddie disappeared in 2007 Madeleine McCann: Disappeared in 2007 aged three PA Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley, who has revealed that British detectives working on the Madeleine McCann case are still pursuing "critical" leads as the 10th anniversary of her disappearance approaches PA Kate and Gerry McCann Kate and Gerry McCann before a charity run in London AFP/Getty Images The Ocean Club which is next to Apartment 5A in Praia Da Luz in Portugal, where Madeline McCann went missing PA Kate and Gerry McCann, whose daughter Madeleine disappeared from a holiday flat in Portugal ten years ago, during an interview with the BBC's Fiona Bruce at Prestwold Hall in Loughborough PA Kate McCann Kate McCann speaks to press at a Lisbon court last year AFP/Getty Images Kate and Gerry McCann with their children Kate and Gerry return home from Portugal in 2007 AFP/Getty Images A general view of the coastline in Praia Da Luz in Portugal, where Madeline McCann went missing PA Portugal police Police in Portugal comb the Algarve resort after Madeleine disappeared in 2007 AFP/Getty Images Kate and Gerry McCann Kate and Gerry McCann pictured shortly after Maddie went missing AFP/Getty Images Kate McCann Kate McCann cries during a 2008 TV appearance Madeleine McCann Maddie in an Everton shirt Everton FC/PA A general view of Church of Nossa Senhora da Luz in Praia Da Luz, Portugal, close to where Madeline McCann went missing PA Members of Scotland Yard dig at an area during the search for missing British girl Madeleine McCann in Praia da Luz, near Lagos on 07 June 2014 Reuters Kate and Gerry McCann Kate McCann and Gerry McCann speak to press after being cleared of being formal suspects Getty Images A poster is shown whilst Kate and Gerry McCann give a press conference in 2012 about their missing daughter Madeline McCann Daily Mail Kate and Gerry pictured five years after Maddie went missing Getty Images The Ocean Club which is next to Apartment 5A in Praia Da Luz in Portugal, where Madeline McCann went missing PA Maddie's parents in an interview with Crimewatch A scene from a Crimewatch reconstruction BBC

More than 11 million has been spent so far on the probe to find the missing girl, who vanished from the family's holiday apartment in Praia da Luz in Portugal in May 2007, aged three.

Madeleine's parents Kate and Gerry McCann, of Rothley, Leicestershire, have vowed never to give up hope of finding their daughter.

In 2011, the Met Police launched its own investigation into what had happened to the toddler.M ost people in Britain are quietly wishing someone would just make Brexit stop, according to a Liberal Democrat MP.

Layla Moran argued that "most of the population" now wished Brexit could be halted, claiming that is "doable".

Ms Moran said: "I think there is a real chance we can do this, and the main thing we need to get across is that it's doable.

"If enough of all the people who secretly in bed just wish this would stop, 'just make it stop', and I think that's most of the population now - 'just make it stop'.

"We can do this but we need to give people belief, and we'll have a referendum on that deal, one of the options will be to stay in, but we can't do it without public opinion swinging behind us.

Theresa May departs for Prime Minister's Questions last week amid widening divisions over Brexit negotiations / EPA

"It's not just us: we need the Labour Party to come round too and again they will be hugely influenced by younger voters and public opinion because they are hungry for power and they will, I think, follow where the people's will takes them.

"The people, the population have far more power than maybe they even realise."

The remarks by the Oxford West and Abingdon MP, elected to the Commons in June, come after Conservative MP Anna Soubry said the British public have more power to stop Brexit than MPs.

Pro-Europe Tory Ms Soubry told Andrew Marr on Sunday that it is down to the people to stop Britain leaving the EU.

Chuka Umunna and Anna Soubry on Brexit

Asked if she thinks Brexit will definitely happen, Ms Soubry said: "Will it definitely happen? I genuinely don't know what is going to happen."

Responding to whether it might be stopped, she said: "Well I'll tell you who might stop it, and that's the people of this country.

"We won't stop it. It is the people. We gave the people a referendum to start this process."

Asked by Andrew Marr what Theresa May could say to alleviate her concerns regarding Brexit Ms Soubry said she wants the UK to remain in the customs union.P enny Lawrence has quit as Deputy Chief Executive of Oxfam amid the prostitution scandal engulfing the charity.

Ms Lawrence resigned on Monday as the charity faced mounting criticism following claims of sexual misconduct by its staff.

The charity has denied it tried to cover the use of prostitutes by workers in Haiti in 2011 and in Chad.

Ms Lawrence said she took "full responsibility" for the behaviour of staff in Chad and Haiti "that we failed to act adequately upon".

In a statement Penny Lawrence said: "I am deeply sad to announce that I have resigned as deputy chief executive of Oxfam GB.

Haiti: the charity was accused of covering up staff's use of prostitutes whilst working in the earthquake-hit country / AFP/Getty Images

"Over the last few days we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed to adequately act upon.

"It is now clear that these allegations - involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the Country Director and members of his team in Chad - were raised before he moved to Haiti.

"As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility.

Oxfam: The charity has been embroiled in government crisis talks after the allegations emerged over the weekend / PA

"I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfam's supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us.

"It has been such a privilege to work for such an amazing organisation that has done and needs to continue to do such good in the world."

Mark Goldring, Chief Executive of Oxfam GB, said: "I deeply respect Penny's decision to accept personal responsibility.

Oxfam CEO apologises over Haiti sex scandal

"Like us, she is appalled at what happened and is determined to do what is best for Oxfam and the people we exist to help.

"I would like to place on record my sincere thanks for the years of dedicated service that Penny has given to Oxfam and the fight against poverty around the world."

Crisis talks: Oxfam's chief executive Mark Goldring (L) and chair of trustees Caroline Thomson leave the Department for International Development / AFP/Getty Images

Allegations that the charity allowed senior staff members to resign, rather than being sacked, first surfaced in a report in The Times.

Four members of Oxfam staff were dismissed and three, including the country director, resigned before the end of a 2011 investigation into claims of sexual misconduct.

The allegations included claims that staff members held sex parties at villas with prostitutes  some of whom could have been underage.

Oxfam chiefs were called in for crisis talks with International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt on Monday, following the reports.

Haiti: The allegations first surfaced following a Times report into staff conduct in Haiti / AFP/Getty Images

Ms Mordaunt said on Sunday the charity had lied and failed in its "moral leadership" by failing to fully disclose details of its investigation into the misconduct to relevant authorities.

The charity received 31.7 million in Government funding in 2016/17 but the support has been put at risk by the scandal.

Charity Commission director of investigations Michelle Russell said the watchdog was not told the full story at the time Oxfam first investigated allegations of misconduct in 2011.

She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "We've made very clear that had the details of what has come out over the last few days been told to us, we would have dealt with this very differently.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt speaking on the Andrew Marr show / PA

"We were categorically told there was no abuse of beneficiaries involved in the allegations. Nor were we told that there were issues or possible issues around possible crimes, including those involving minors."

According to The Times, Oxfam knew about concerns over the conduct of country director Mr van Hauwermeiren and another man when they worked in Chad before they were given senior roles in Haiti.

Mr Van Hauwermeiren's attitudes and behaviour towards women were documented, it said.T he United Nations is infiltrated by predatory paedophiles preying on vulnerable children in the Third World, a whistleblower said today.

Andrew MacLeod, the former chief of operations of the UNs Emergency Coordination Centre, told the Evening Standard that the worldwide abuse of children and vulnerable adults was on a huge scale.

His claims come as Oxfam came under pressure to hand over its own files of suspected abusers of children and vulnerable women in earthquake-stricken Haiti to the police.

The charitys UK bosses were summoned to talks with International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt, who is threatening to cut off 32million government funding over the scandal.

Meanwhile the sheer scale of the abuse scandal was emerging, as a Charities Commission official revealed that 1,000 allegations of misconduct across the charity sector had been reported in the past year.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt is threatening to cut off 32million government funding over the scandal / PA

But the watchdog faced questions about why it did not investigate the situation at Oxfam more vigorously, allowing alleged abusers to be fired with no more questions asked.

With charities in the spotlight, it was the turn of the United Nations to face its own allegations.

Mr MacLeod said allegations of abuse involving peacekeeping soldiers alone was likely to run to around 50,000 or more over three decades.

But he claimed to have also seen evidence that civilian abusers had taken jobs in development charities under the UN auspices to gain access to victims.

What we have seen is that predatory paedophiles are now going to the developing world to get access to children, he said. To do that they join a childrens charity.

Mr MacLeod said the UN had discussed the problem but taken no effective action. Some managers who tried to take action were removed from their posts.

In the Philippines an official I worked with said she would crack down on it but what happened was that she was accused of racism and removed, he said.

I know there were a lot of discussions at senior levels of the United Nations about something must be done but nothing effective came of it, and if you look at the record of whistleblowers, they were fired.

He added: We are looking at a problem on the scale of the Catholic Church - if not bigger.

Mr MacLeod confirmed he was the whistleblower whose evidence led former International Development Secretary Priti Patel to demand her department investigate the scandal of aid workers abusing people.

Conservative MP Conor Burns, who is Commons aide to Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, told the BBCs Westminster Hour: I believe that were are at the tip of an iceberg in finding out what has been going on, and that there has been systematic, organised and covered-up activity going on over many, many years.

He said there was now evidence that the United Nations were covering up officials within the UN engaging in paedophile activity whilst abroad on behalf of the United Nations.

Mr Burns said the evidence had been shared... within the Foreign Office.

The Charities Commission faced questions over why it failed to investigate the full extent of what happened at Oxfam.

Director of investigations Michelle Russell accused Oxfam of holding back details of the allegations, including that children and vulnerable people dependant on aid were allegedly exploited for sex.

Weve made very clear that had the details of what has come out over the last few days been told to us, we would have dealt with this very differently, she told Today.

We were categorically told there was no abuse of beneficiaries involved in the allegations. Nor were we told that there were issues or possible issues around possible crimes, including those involving minors.

But the commission - which is the official watchdog of charities - admitted it failed to demand that Oxfam bosses hand over their own internal reports which would have revealed the true extent of the scandal.

Asked by the BBC why the commission did not insist on seeing Oxfams reports, Ms Russell said: We were assured that Oxfam had investigated it fully.

The United Nations did not respond to requests for a statement made by the Evening Standard in time for publication today.

Oxfam issued a statement yesterday apologising and saying it had introduced stricter rules and oversight.

A spokesman said it would not say anything further until after the talks with Ms Mordaunt, attended by chief executive Mark Goldring and one other senior official.Oxfam has denied it tried to cover up the use of prostitutes by workers in Haiti in 2011.A Sudden Stratospheric Warming happens 30 miles up when the jet stream is disrupted and air is pushed in the opposite direction.

As the air compresses it can warm by up to 50C in just a few days.

The occurrence is normally associated with air from the east entering Britain and northern Europe, bringing freezing temperatures and possibly snow.D onald Trumps daughter-in-law Vanessa has been rushed to hospital after opening an envelope containing an unidentified white powder, police have said.

Vanessa Trump, 40, opened the letter, which was addressed to her husband Donald Trump Jr., according to investigators.

Her mother Bonnie Haydon handled the letter, which was posted to her apartment, before passing it on to her daughter, according to the New York Post.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) later confirmed the white powder had been tested and found to be non-dangerous.

Mrs Trump had called 911 and said she was coughing and felt nauseous after opening the envelope at her Manhattan apartment, police said.

She and two others at the scene were reportedly decontaminated by firefighters before being taken to hospital as a precaution for evaluation.

Following the incident, Ivanka Trump tweeted: "Thinking of @MrsVanessaTrump & wishing I was by her side today. No one deserves to be frightened this way. There is no excuse."

The lobby of the building where Donald Trump Jr.'s wife, Vanessa Trump, opened a letter containing white powder in New York / REUTERS

Detectives from the NYPD intelligence division and Secret Service agents were investigating the incident.

In March 2016, police and FBI agents investigated a threatening letter sent to the Manhattan apartment of Donald Trump Jr.'s brother Eric that also contained a white powder. Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act of 2017 now has 20 sponsors in the Senate but... | Main | NY Times editorial laments "The Problem With Parole" 

February 12, 2018

"Yes, Trump is embracing criminal justice reform"

The title of this post is the headline of this new opinion piece that struck me as notable for any number of reasons: the piece appears in the right-leaning Washington Examiner and is authored by well-known conservatives Ken Blackwell and Ken Cuccinelli. The piece also ends with a call for Congress to catch up to states in the criminal justice reform arena. Here are excerpts:

Throughout the last election cycle, there came fevered predictions from many commentators on the Left that, given candidate Donald Trumps frank messaging about returning to "law and order" and confronting violent crime in American cities, criminal justice reform efforts were officially dead in the water. Criminal justice reform appears bleak in the age of Trump, stated one article. How Criminal Justice Reform Died, intoned another. Such fatalism was both misplaced and inaccurate. Misplaced, because the lions share of successful criminal justice reforms over the last ten years have advanced at the state and local levels, not in D.C. mainly by southern red states. With oversight over roughly 90 percent of the countrys incarcerated population, the states will always be the primary mover of criminal justice policies, not the federal government. But such predictions have now been proven inaccurate as well, given recent remarks made by now-President Trump about the need for federal prison reform.... Society is justified in expecting individuals to take ownership not just for their actions, but also for their reformation. This is hampered, however, when the weight of accumulated barriers to re-entry becomes a millstone. Research has been clear that getting a job upon release is among the most critical steps to reducing a persons likelihood for recidivism. When President Trump and others say society has a great interest in helping ex-offenders get on the path of self-sufficiency, hes speaking a well-established truism. Fortunately, conservative states have long since begun helping ex-offenders land on their feet upon release. Chief among them: Texas, long known as a tough on crime stalwart. In 2007, state lawmakers passed a $241 million justice reinvestment package to increase capacity for substance abuse and mental health treatment and expand probation and parole services, as well as community-based diversion programs. This avoided the immediate need for $2.1 billion in spending just to meet their expected needs for new prison capacity. More recently, Texas has passed indemnity laws to insulate employers and landlords from liability when they extend a job or lease to ex-offenders. This makes it less likely that a criminal record will be an insuperable barrier to work or finding a place to live. Communities in Texas have been getting safer at the same time. Crime rates have fallen by 31 percent, while incarceration rates have fallen by more than 20 percent. Eight prisons have been shuttered even as Texas population has soared, saving millions in annual operating costs. In 2012, Georgia began investing in efforts aimed at reducing recidivism, including an expansion of in-prison educational resources. Theyve since reduced their prison population and nearly eliminated its backlog of inmates awaiting transfer, all the while reducing crime by 8 percent and saving $25 million. A large reform package passed in Louisiana last year has similar aims of steering less serious offenders away from incarceration and into more effective community-based programs. South Carolina, Utah, Alaska, Kentucky, and others have passed comprehensive reforms, as well. As we mentioned above, the states are the natural gatekeepers for criminal justice reform. But Congress has shortcomings within its own prison system to address, and is quickly running out of excuses for doing so. President Trump, whom so many on the Left falsely assumed would spell the end of reform, has instead sounded a clarion call to advance it. He was right for doing so, as many conservative states have proved, and it's time Congress took up that challenge as well.

February 12, 2018 at 11:02 AM | Permalink

Comments

"the Left"

Uh huh. I don't know how many thought Trump would "end reform" -- the general idea for the dismissive would be he would sign anything Republicans in charge put in front of him.

But, that is expected partisan cant from these two. There is room for bipartisan support in this area though actually passing something looks to be a long process by those who have other priorities. Also, certain Trump policies (especially with Sessions in charge) interferes with actual reform, including in the drug area.

Posted by: Joe | Feb 12, 2018 11:46:23 AM

Must see disparity of sentence freedomforsholam.com

Posted by: Joel | Feb 12, 2018 4:52:57 PM

Www.freedomforsholam.com

Posted by: Joel | Feb 12, 2018 4:54:06 PM

This post reminded me of the class discussion we had regarding President Trump's speech. As we discussed, I think there might be a tension in Congress that makes it difficult for any legislation on this issue to be passed based on the conflicting goals of prison reform versus sentencing reform. Although, I do think it is interesting that based on the excerpted portions of this piece states seem to have been able to make so much progress in this issue.



Posted by: MacKenzie Newberry | Feb 19, 2018 1:17:50 PM

Post a commentT hree Britons who died when a helicopter crashed in the Grand Canyon have been named.

US media reported Becky Dobson, 27, Jason Hill, 32, and Stuart Hill, 30, died in Saturday afternoon's incident, while three further Britons were taken to hospital.

Ellie Milward, 29, Jonathan Udall, 32, and Jennifer Barham, 39, were airlifted to University Medical Centre in Las Vegas, Nevada, along with pilot Scott Booth, 42, according to Arizona Central.

The circumstances surrounding the crash - on the West Rim of the Canyon near Quartermaster Canyon - are currently unknown.

Hualapai Police chief Francis Bradley said: "It's a very tragic incident.

"Yesterday, we were hampered by severe weather conditions, we had gusts up to 50mph. The terrain where the crash occurred... is extremely rugged."

A Foreign Office spokeswoman said: "We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on February 10, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services."A new species of all-female crayfish that are able to reproduce alone are rapidly multiplying and invading ecosystems all over the world, according to a new study.

The voracious species, known as the marbled crayfish, has mutated to allow reproduction by itself, the new scientific study said.

Despite a warning against keeping the pests as pets, lovers of the crustaceans are able to purchase them online in Canada and the US.

The mutant crayfish, which scientists say can multiply at an alarming rate, have already been banned by the European Union.

The invasive species were described as a threat to wild crayfish by researchers involved in a new study published in the journal Nature, Ecology and Evolution.

Dr Wolfgang Stein, one of the researchers, said the creature is able to multiply hundreds of times within the space of just a few months.

Dr Stein told Canadian public broadcaster CBC: "If you have one animal, essentially, three months later, you will have 200 or 300,"

The crustaceans can be bought in some pet shops in Canada and through online adverts. One online seller offered a one-inch self-cloning marbled crayfish for free and five larger ones for C$20.P reviously unseen footage has emerged showing Elon Musks stunned reaction to the launch of Space Xs Falcon Heavy rocket.

A camera crew from National Geographic went behind-the-scenes to follow Musk and his team on the day of the launch of the world's most powerful rocket.

They captured the reaction of the billionaire business magnate and SpaceX owner during the countdown, before he proclaimed "holy flying f***, that thing took off" as it blasted into space.

Within seconds, he raced out the door of the launch control centre and shielded his eyes as he stared up at the sky.

Loading....

He and staffers then pointed up as Musk called out: Look at that! That's unreal."

The footage was filmed for the second season of MARS, which is returning to National Geographic later this year.

SpaceX Falcon launch - In pictures 1 /14 SpaceX Falcon launch - In pictures SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket lifts off from pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral AP SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket climbs towards space Reuters Incredible footage shows the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket passing Earth AP SpaceX's CEO Elon Musk Getty Images SpaceX's gigantic Falcon Heavy rocket successfully blasted off from its launch pad SpaceX SpaceX livestream video shows "Starman" sitting in SpaceX CEO Elon Musk's cherry red Tesla roadster after the Falcon Heavy rocket delivered it into orbit around the Earth Incredible footage shows the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket in orbit AFP/Getty Images Printed on the circuit board of a car in deep space Incredible footage shows the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket in orbit AP SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket lifts off from pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral AP The crowd cheers at Playalinda Beach in the Canaveral National Seashore, just north of the Kennedy Space Center, during the successful launch of the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket AP Visitors have staked out spots near to the fishing pier at Jetty Park to watch the rocket launch Reuters SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket lifts at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral AP A red Tesla Roadster is seen during preparations to use it as a mock payload for the launch of a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket in Cape Canaveral, Florida REUTERS

Falcon Heavy - the world's most powerful rocket - made history last week as it blasted off from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida in front of cheering crowds.

It was fitted with a camera that allowed the public to watch a live stream of its journey through space from earth.

The coolest things from Elon Musk's Falcon Heavy SpaceX launch

Amazing footage showed Musks cherry red Tesla roadster - which is attached - pass Earth during its mission to Mars.

Despite the rocket missing its Mars orbit and shooting off towards an asteroid field, Musk urged other rocket companies to join him in a new space race as he boasted of his latest mission using the biggest and most powerful rocket ever to leave Earth.

And he has now said the timeline for reaching the Red Planet has been brought forward as he laid out plans to test a new even bigger "beast" rocket next year.

The mammoth launch sparked some criticism with Flat Earth conspiracy theorists claiming it was faked.B rooklyn Beckham has shared a picture of a brand new tattoo dedicated to his mother, Victoria Beckham.

The 18-year-old posted a snap of the black-and-white inking to his Instagram followers, following his mother's successful presentation at New York Fashion Week.

Inked on his bicep, Beckham opted for a heart tattoo with a ribbon across it saying mum, complete with roses surrounding the design.

The eldest of Victoria and David's brood wasnt in New York to support his mother and her brand, with both parents posting about missing their son.

Sharing a photo with Romeo, Cruz and Harper, the ex-Manchester United legend wrote: how day... Proud of mummy @victoriabeckham @romeobeckham @cruzbeckham #harperseven we miss you @brooklynbeckham.

While the designer posted: Kisses x #VBAW18 love u @davidbeckham @romeobeckham @cruzbeckham #harper x miss u @brooklynbeckham #NYFW.

Victoria rose to fame in 90s pop band the Spice Girls as Posh, with the band announcing a comeback earlier this month, six years after last performing together.

At the end of January, the five  Beckham, Geri Horner, Mel B, Mel C and Emma Bunton  posted a series of snaps to their social media accounts showing the pals back together having fun.

Sources claim that a host of new projects are on the table, including a television talent show and endorsement deals are in the pipeline.

The latest rumours claim that the band will reunite for a string of gigs instead of an official tour.

Victoria Beckham AW18 show, New York Fashion Week 1 /26 Victoria Beckham AW18 show, New York Fashion Week Victoria Beckham AW18 Getty Images Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18 Victoria Beckham AW18

Just last week, Brooklyn debuted his ink in honour of his famous father.D avid Walliams has reportedly met up with kidnapped glamour model, Chloe Ayling.

The Britains Got Talent judge is thought to have organised a secret meet-up for the pair after meeting on social media.

The 46-year-old Little Britain star reportedly struck up contact by liking a string of the 20-year-olds Instagram posts, despite not following her.

A source told The Sun: David orchestrated the meeting and arranged for her to visit his London home.

He is intrigued by her story and has clearly taken a shine to her. Its a case of waiting and seeing if their relationship grows from here.

Walliams reportedly organised a meeting with Ayling ahead of her trip to Switzerland, which was arranged to give her a break ahead of the kidnapping trial, taking place in July.

Ayling claims she was drugged and held hostage for six days by a group named Black Death after being lured to a fake modelling shoot in Milan by alleged kidnapper, Lukasz Pawel Herba.

Black Death has reportedly said it sells women as sex slaves online to buyers in the Middle East.

Britain's Got Talent 2018 auditions 1 /10 Britain's Got Talent 2018 auditions Group photo Ant McPartlin (left to right), Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden, Simon Cowell, David Walliams and Declan Donnelly PA Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon Peter Byrne/PA Alesha Dixon Peter Byrne/PA Meet and greet Peter Byrne/PA Simon Cowell Peter Byrne/PA Surprise! Surprise: Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden Peter Byrne/PA Ant McPartlin Peter Byrne/PA Double act PA Humbug Peter Byrne/PA Red carpet ready Peter Byrne/PA

Ms Ayling's captors allegedly demanded 270,000 from her agent, but eventually agreed to accept 50,000, she said, although the money was never paid.

Kidnapped Model Breaks Down On This Morning

According to Ms Ayling, one of her kidnappers told her they had made a mistake in snatching her because she is the mother of a young child.

Herba was arrested after he released 20-year-old Ms Ayling at the British consulate in Milan, after allegedly having a change of heart.J eremy Kyle has revealed that he is very happy following recent news that he has proposed to his childrens former nanny.

The 52-year-old is thought to have popped the question to 36-year-old Vicky Burton whilst on a getaway to the Grenadines Islands in the Caribbean earlier this month.

Kyle broke his silence over the exciting news while present Good Morning Britain on Monday.

All I did was get engaged, it's very nice and I'm very happy, he told viewers.

Set to wed: Kyle proposed to Burton whilst on holiday / Rex

"I've just done the most romantic thing which is to present a beautiful lady with a ring.

However, the talk-show host joked that his Valentines Day wont be particularly romantic as he has to get up at 2:30am to present the show from 6am.

It's not going to be that romantic for any of us, we have to get up at 2.30am, added Kyle.

The duos engagement comes just over a year after the couple went public with their new romance.

Jeremy Kyle breaks wrist in dramatic live TV fall

A source told the Mirror: The wedding will be on the beach in Barbados, near to Jeremys home.

The island means a lot to them as it was the first place they could openly be together.

Adding: Vicky loves children, as does Jeremy, and the pair would love a baby together if it happened."

Burton was nanny to the presenter's three children with ex-wife Carla Germaine.Countries & Areas

Search for country or area A Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan B Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burma Burundi C Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Costa Rica Cote dIvoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia D Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic E Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia F Fiji Finland France G Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana H Haiti Holy See Honduras Hungary I Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy J Jamaica Japan Jordan K Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan L Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg M Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique N Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Korea North Macedonia Norway O Oman P Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territories Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Q Qatar R Republic of the Congo Romania Russia Rwanda S Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syria T Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu U Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom Uruguay Uzbekistan V Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Y Yemen Z Zambia ZimbabweOn February 3 the Washington Post observed that the United States can deliver a strike anywhere in the world in 30 minutes with astounding accuracy and questioned the need for a new generation of low-yield nuclear weapons, quoting the commander of the strategic force, General John Hyten, as saying Im very comfortable today with the flexibility of our response options. But it appears that no matter the quantity and world-destroying capability of the US nuclear arsenal, there is always room for more  and more devastating  weapons of mass annihilation.

General James Mattis, the US Secretary of Defence, discussed Washingtons recently composed Nuclear Posture Review (NPR) with the Armed Services Committee of the House of Representatives on February 6. He was attempting to justify the vast expansion and upgrading of the US nuclear arsenal which the Congressional Budget Office has estimated will cost some 1.2 trillion dollars over the next 30 years and described in detail some of the projects that have been planned. The entire exercise does not fit well with the international Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in which it is agreed by almost every country in the world that the nuclear arms race should be halted and that all possible measures should be taken towards achievement of nuclear disarmament.

But Washingtons notions of global nuclear disarmament are curiously ambivalent, as there is total support for Israels highly developed nuclear weapons capabilities, yet concurrently there is obsessive criticism of North Koreas programme to arm itself with nuclear missiles. Nobody can defend or approve of North Koreas wild nuclear ambitions which are beggaring an already downtrodden and poverty-stricken population on the verge of starvation, but Pyongyangs rationale is that its policy is the best way to respond with powerful nuclear deterrent to the US imperialists who are violent toward the weak and subservient to the strong.

The language is straight out of a 1950s propaganda textbook, but the North Koreans are perfectly serious about their perception of world affairs as seen through the Washington lens. The North Korean governments perception of the Nuclear Posture Review may be less measured than those of several other nations, but there was no mistaking the disapproval

of China, Germany, Iran and Russia, all of which condemned the NPR in no uncertain terms. Germanys then foreign minister, Sigmar Gabriel (moved in the recent political reshuffle) reflected the stance of much of Europe when he said the NPR indicated that the spiral of a new nuclear arms race is already underway, but France and Britain, with their irrelevant but proudly brandished nuclear weapons capabilities, were non-committal, although the UKs policy apparently remains that we've made it very clear that you can't rule out the use of nuclear weapons as a first strike.

As to the body of the Review, one analyst wrote that the 2018 NPR fully supports the retention and modernization of the current triad of delivery systems; emphasizes the importance of a modernized and strengthened nuclear command, control, and communications system; and reiterates the need to invest in US nuclear weapons infrastructure, primarily in the national laboratories, which sums up the overall intention to expand the entire systems of procurement and delivery. The BBC noted that the NPR argues that developing smaller nuclear weapons would challenge that assumption [of its arsenal becoming obsolete]. Low-yield weapons with a strength of under 20 kilotons are less powerful but are still devastating. It reported that proposals include the update of land-based ballistic missiles, submarine-launched missiles, and air-delivered weapons, modification of some submarine-launched nuclear warheads to give a lower-yield or less powerful detonation, and reinstitution of sea-based nuclear cruise missiles.

Washingtons message is clear, in that the NPR is an extension of the US National Defense Strategy which advises vast military expansion to supposedly counter growing threat from revisionist powers such as China and Russia. The Cold War is back with a nuclear rush, and the US Military-Industrial complex has been given a major boost, with the Review making 62 references to North Korea, 47 to China, 39 to Iraq and  leaving no doubt where it wishes to strike first  mentioning Russia 127 times, which makes nonsense of the claim by the State Department that we do not want to consider Russia an adversary This not a Russia-centric NPR.

Washington now rejects both sole purpose (nuclear weapons to be used to deter only nuclear attacks) and no first use (nuclear weapons only to be used if another state uses such weapons first) policies. The message to China and Russia is that if the US considers there is a non-nuclear threat to its interests, then there could be a nuclear strike. The example set to nuclear-armed nations such as India, Israel and Pakistan is unambiguous, in that the deterrence aspect of nuclear weapons has been superseded by what might be called First Threat, meaning that the more nuclear weapons that can be deployed by a country, the more assured will be its security. In the words of the State Department, the declaratory policy of the United States [is] that we would consider the use of nuclear weapons in extreme circumstances  the language on that that you will find in this Nuclear Posture Review is identical to what you will have found: that the United States would employ nuclear weapons only in extreme circumstances, to defend the vital interests of the United States, allies and partners.

The Pentagon and the State Department, energetically aided by a compliant Congress, are trying to portray the United States as a peace-loving defender of vital interests but when global military spending is examined it is obvious that even without the massive increase in financial allocations for development of yet more nuclear weapons, the US is outlaying vast sums on maintaining and expanding its military bases and operations around the world. The recent military budget increases approved by Congress are staggering, and go well beyond what even Trump wanted. He had asked for 603 billion dollars for normal expenditure and 65 billion for the various wars being fought by the US round the world, but Congress allocated 716 billion, and shares in major military equipment contractors took an upward leap.

The threat to world peace from expanding US military operations and nuclear development is increasing day by day. The New Cold War emphasis on massive destruction has brought the world closer to Doomsday, as noted by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists which states that nuclear weapons are poised to become more rather than less usable because of nations investments in their nuclear arsenals. Since that was written the threat has been increased by Washingtons intentions as laid out in its Nuclear Posture Review.Piracy is still a problem off the Somali coast, just not the kind that creates headlines in the international mass media. The pirates have adapted and in 2017 there were nine pirate attacks off the Somali coast, up from two in 2016. This was notable because word wide pirate activity hit a 22 year low (188 attacks) in 2017 and most of it was far away from Somalia in places like the west coast of Africa and Southeast Asia. Those 188 attacks created damage worth $7 billion, most (80 percent) of it was absorbed by the ships and their owners. Higher insurance rates and operating costs were the major additional costs. That is an issue off Somalia where higher insurance costs are still a problem.

Back in 2011 there were 327 attacks off the Somali coast. The solution was an international anti-piracy effort that continues. But shipping companies still have to pay higher insurance rates for their ships that operate in the danger zone (which extends far out into the Indian Ocean). At the end of 2017 the maritime insurance companies had real reason to be worried. In November, 2017, for the first time since 2014 the international anti-piracy patrol arrested six Somali pirates who were caught firing on and trying to board ships off the Somali coast. The accused Somalis were then sent the Seychelles Islands for incarceration and prosecution. In 2010 the EU (European Union) made a deal with the tiny (85,000 population) nation of Seychelles (islands, 1,500 kilometers east of Somalia) to prosecute pirates captured by the anti-piracy patrol off Somalia. The European nations that bring in pirates for prosecution agreed to pick up the expenses, as well as imprison convicted pirates back in Europe. First, the Seychelles had to spend half a million dollars, and several months, to build a jail for (up to 40) pirates who were being tried. Seychelles has an economy dependent on fishing and tourists, and doesn't have much crime so never needed many jail cells. The EU contract, and a small American military presence (to maintain UAVs and other American military aircraft operating from the main Seychelles airport) helped the local economy as has the near total absence of Somali pirates that had been common in Seychelles coastal waters until 2012. For a while Somali pirates operated off the Seychelles, sometimes attacking local fishing boats, and that hurt the local economy. The certainty of being prosecuted if caught proved to be a major deterrent but the pirates are still there, just in smaller numbers and most of them eager to avoid any encounters with the anti-piracy patrol. Instead the pirates prey on fishing boats and small coastal freighters. The trick is to pick a target lucrative enough to make it worthwhile yet minor enough to avoid or delay attracting the anti-piracy patrol.

February 11, 2018: In Kenya peace talks between the Ethiopian government and the ONLF (Ogaden National Liberation Front) resumed. This is part of a larger effort to bring peace to Somalis throughout the region (mainly Somalia but also Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti). Somalia is playing a role in trying to make peace between Ethiopia and its Somali minority. For example in August 2017 Somalia arrested Abdikarin Sheikh Muse, an ethnic Somali who was an Ethiopian rebel leader hiding out in Somalia. Muse was taken to the Ethiopian border and turned over to Ethiopia, which had requested this. That, as expected, caused some protest demonstrations by Somalis who believe Ogaden belongs to Somalia. The newly elected Somali president survived this and remains popular. Most Somalis have mixed feelings about Ogaden. Islamic radicals in Somalia have long sought to conquer the Ethiopian province of Ogaden, which comprises most of eastern Ethiopia and contains a largely ethnic Somali population. The Ethiopians have been defeating these efforts for generations. That is not going to change, especially since oil and gas has been discovered in Ogaden, and drilling is underway. Abdikarin Sheikh Muse is a leader in the ONLF and Somalia has long been a convenient refuge. In 2015 Somalia and Ethiopia signed an agreement to not provide rebels from the other nations with sanctuary. Meanwhile Ethiopia is having problems in Oromia, the region east of the Ogaden, which is populated by Moslems who are hostile the Christian Ethiopians who run the country and the Somalis in neighboring Ogaden. That is another issue that Ethiopia has to handle on its own.

February 10, 2018: Al Shabaab attacked the town of Afgooye (30 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu) but were repulsed and the attackers fled in the darkness taking their casualties with them. Three civilians were wounded during the gun battle.

February 9, 2018: The United States sanctioned a trading company based in Somalia for providing goods for ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) operations in Somalia. There are still a few ISIL members in Somalia but they are maintaining a low profile.

February 7, 2018: In Mogadishu al Shabaab took credit for the murder of an army lieutenant by gunmen.

February 1, 2018: A landmine wrecked a vehicle 13 kilometers outside Mogadishu, killing two cell phone company technicians. No one took credit but al Shabaab and criminal gangs will use such attacks to extort cash or services from companies.

January 31, 2018: In the southeast along the Kenyan border eight kilometers of the new security fence has been completed in Mandera (near the coast) on the Kenyan side of the border. Work on the next 28 kilometer segment is about to begin. The fence was originally to be a combination of a two meter (6.2 foot) high wall with security cameras in addition to a deep trench and a wire fence. To keep costs low most of the border barrier is now just a fence and ditch plus a road for regular patrols and to quickly reach an area that has been breached. Work did not really get under way until 2017.

The Kenyans began working on a border fence project in 2015 and that led to Israeli involvement. In mid-2016 Kenya and Israel signed several security and economic cooperation agreements including some that included Israeli assistance in planning and building the security fence along most of the 869 kilometer Somali border. Construction was supposed to start in October 2015 but was delayed because of corruption (money to get the fence going had disappeared) and opposition from some of the pro-government militias on the Somali side of the border. Work sort of resumed in early 2016. Many still believed the fence is unlikely to be finished because of high cost and the government corruption that cripples so many major efforts. But Kenya persisted. The Somali militias were persuaded to accept the fence and the Kenyan government made it clear that the fence was necessary to reduce Somali Islamic terrorism inside Kenya. This has killed over 500 Kenyans since 2012 and voters most definitely back anything that can reduce the terrorist threat. By 2017 Kenya said it had the needed funds and had organized the workforce. There were still concern that the fence (wall, watch towers and fencing) would cost more than Kenya can afford as the most effective security wall was built by the Israelis at a cost of $2 million per kilometer. A less effective wall would slow down illegal border crossers but that would not keep determined Islamic terrorists out. Somalia accuses Kenya of planning to build some of the wall in Somali territory. The border was never precisely defined and that is a dispute that has largely been avoided because the frontier area is rural and it normally makes little difference where the border actually is. Kenya and Somalia appear to have settled that dispute. Israel has long been a pioneer in developing effective border security fence technology and many Arab countries use it (without mentioning where the tech came from). Kenya also agreed to increase information sharing with Israel on terrorism matters. The border fence does restrict operations by al Shabaab and Somali bandits in Kenya. These raiders cannot just reach the border and cross to safety. They now have to take the fence into account and that is discouraging cross border mischief.

January 30, 2018: In the far north (Puntland) al Shabaab used a roadside bomb in the Bari area to attack a truck carrying soldiers. The explosion caused three casualties.

January 29, 2018: About 240 kilometers west of Mogadishu army forces clashed with al Shabaab near Baidoa and killed seven of the Islamic terrorists while losing four soldiers dead. Al Shabaab survives in this area via theft and extortion.

January 25, 2018: In Mogadishu someone used a roadside bomb to attack police. One policeman was killed and two wounded. Al Shabaab usually carries out attacks like this but no one immediately took credit.

January 18, 2018: In the south (Lower Shabelle) a Somali-American commando raid on an al Shabaab training camp rescued 30 children (boys age 9-17) who had been taken from their families by al Shabaab to be indoctrinated and trained to be Islamic terrorists. Five al Shabaab gunmen were killed and six wounded during the raid. The Americans supplied aircraft, backup and advice. It is rare during these raids for the American special operations troops to use their weapons and that was the case this time. The U.S. troops are there mainly to observe their students and note possible changes to the training program the U.S. provides to turn a small number of Somali soldiers into commandos. While the Somali Army in general is crippled by corruption the small Somali special operations force is not. Apparently most of the missions Somali commandos carry out are reconnaissance and surveillance. These direct action raids are the exception. The Somali military has been under a lot of pressure from parents to shut down or at least slow down the al Shabaab efforts to take children and turn them into Islamic terrorists. The success of this raid was a big deal in Somalia.

This use of children has been going on for years and recruiting (kidnapping) of children has increased. Al Shabaab has long been maintaining its strength in rural areas by stealing children in addition to food and other supplies. Families that can afford to are sending children (mainly boys age 8-16) away to areas with less al Shabaab presence to protect the kids from a popular recruiting strategy in Africa. This began with al Shabaab demanding that rural schools stop teaching anything that might be interpreted as hostile to al Shabaab. Then al Shabaab imposed a tax on some schools that had to be paid in the form of students. Since early 2017 several hundred children have been taken and several thousand have been sent away by their parents to keep the kids safe from al Shabaab. This use of children was not unexpected because the Islamic terrorist group has suffered heavy losses in the last few years but have maintained its strength by improvising. This is mainly about using children and apparently at least half the current al Shabaab gunmen are armed boys under age 18 and a growing number under 14 years old. This is why, despite losing control of 90 percent of the area it controlled at its peak in 2012, al Shabaab still exists with about half the personnel it had in 2012.

The growing use of child soldiers was noted as early as 2010 when the fighting in Mogadishu was not going well for al Shabaab and many of their fighters had been killed or discouraged enough to desert. Unable to entice enough men to join they convinced (or coerced) some clan elders to allow kids (large enough to handle an AK-47) to join the fight. Like most Somali children the boys were eager for the opportunity to have an AK-47 of their very own and people to shoot at. This is a big deal for Somali teenagers. By 2012 it was noted that 10-20 percent of most al Shabaab fighters appeared to be kids. The teenagers are not the best fighters. Most are impulsive and inexperienced so they do not last long if there is a lot of combat and even then they require more supervision than adult fighters. But given the choice between disappearing because of heavy casualties and recruiting more and more kids, many African irregular groups (bandits, rebels, Islamic terrorists) will resort to the use of children. This is not a new phenomenon but it did not become as affordable and widespread until the 1990s. Thats because after several million cheap Cold War surplus AK-47s began showing up in Africa. That made the "child soldier" a more practical solution to heavy personnel losses. The world market for AK-47s was glutted by the late 1990s. The only market left was Africa, but only if you were willing to sell cheap. The gunrunners were, and still are, very active in lawless places like Somalia, Sudan and eastern Congo. The cheap AK-47 made it possible to use kids as young as 10-14 as soldiers. This was a new development, because the old weapons (spears, swords, bows) required muscle. Kids had to be older, and stronger to be effective warriors. But now, if you could lift a 4.5 kg (ten pound) AK-47 and pull the trigger you were a killer. Child soldiers changed everything, because warlords could just kidnap or entice kids and quickly brainwash them. These armies of child killers made insurrection and anarchy more common. Tens of millions of Africans fled their homes to avoid these tiny terrors, and many of those refugees died of starvation or disease. These victims were just as dead, even if the bullets didn't get them. In fact, few AK-47 victims died from bullets. It was the massive fear, and breakdown of society, and the economy, that killed most people confronted by all these cheap AK-47s. The kids weren't very good shots, but if they got close enough to you, they were capable of unimaginable horrors. Al Shabaab is continuing this vile tradition, although in the name of God.

Elsewhere in the south (50 kilometers northwest of the port city Kismayo) an American airstrike killed four al Shabaab men.Source: Clive Maund for Streetwise Reports (2/11/18)

Charting oil, technical analyst Clive Maund expects a relief rally for the commodity, and discusses some strategic moves.



In light of what happened in the markets on Friday, with the broad market S&P500 index closing with a Reversal Day on its chart calling for some sort of a relief rally, that is likely to drag the oil sector along with it for the ride, we have to consider whether it makes sense to take profits in our inverse oil ETFs, with a view to buying them back later at a better price. Our original plan as you know was to stick with them for much bigger gains than we have made so far, as set out when they were recommended a week ago in Oil Set to Tank. Having observed the risk of a reversal during the afternoon on Friday, our first priority was to offload our USO Puts at very good prices, as they would be the first and biggest casualty of a reversal.

The answer to the question regarding whether we should take profits in these inverse ETFs is yes, we should. The reason being that the broad market has signaled that it is likely to have a relief rally in coming days/weeks before then dropping to new lows, and drag oil along for the ride, despite oil's COTs and Hedgers' charts still looking awful, although oil is not expected to get far before it rolls over and drops again. However, since our inverse ETFs are leveraged, that could still inflict damage.

Take profits on all oil inverse ETFs and any Puts still held. The plan is to buy them back in days/weeks after a modest sector rally on the back of a broad market rally.

Now we will quickly review the relevant charts.

Oil stocks look set for a significant rally after the steep drop of the past two weeks.

We have a nice little profit in the twice leveraged Crude Oil Double Short ETN, DTO, which should be taken.

The 1-year chart for DTO shows that it has arrived at the upper boundary of its downtrend, another reason to step aside.

The more leveraged VelocityShares 3X Inverse Crude Oil ETN, DWTIF, made bigger gains, of course, and it too should be sold.

Also mentioned was the twice leveraged ProShares Ultrashort Crude Oil, SCO, which did well, performing a little better than DTO, which should also be sold.

Finally, those of you who are of a more sporting disposition and want to "keep the ball in the air" during the expected sector countertrend rally, might fancy a flutter on the succinctly named Direxion Daily S&P Oil & Gas Exploration & Production Bull 3X Shares, GUSH, which put in a Reversal Day Friday after a brutal decline. This could make big gains quickly on the countertrend rally believed to lie ahead. Its 6-month chart is shown below.

The United States Oil Fund (USO) Puts also recommended a week ago in Oil Set to Tank were reviewed separately on the 9th in Review of our MASSIVELY PROFITABLE USO PUT TRADE.

Clive Maund has been president of www.clivemaund.com, a successful resource sector website, since its inception in 2003. He has 30 years' experience in technical analysis and has worked for banks, commodity brokers and stockbrokers in the City of London. He holds a Diploma in Technical Analysis from the UK Society of Technical Analysts.

Want to read more Energy Report articles like this? Sign up for our free e-newsletter, and you'll learn when new articles have been published. To see a list of recent articles and interviews with industry analysts and commentators, visit our Streetwise Interviews page.

Disclosure:

1) Statements and opinions expressed are the opinions of Clive Maund and not of Streetwise Reports or its officers. Clive Maund is wholly responsible for the validity of the statements. Streetwise Reports was not involved in the content preparation. Clive Maund was not paid by Streetwise Reports LLC for this article. Streetwise Reports was not paid by the author to publish or syndicate this article.

2) This article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional and any action a reader takes as a result of information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports' terms of use and full legal disclaimer. This article is not a solicitation for investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on Streetwise Reports.

3) From time to time, Streetwise Reports LLC and its directors, officers, employees or members of their families, as well as persons interviewed for articles and interviews on the site, may have a long or short position in securities mentioned. Directors, officers, employees or members of their immediate families are prohibited from making purchases and/or sales of those securities in the open market or otherwise from the time of the interview or the decision to write an article, until one week after the publication of the interview or article.

Charts provided by the author.

CliveMaund.com Disclosure:

The above represents the opinion and analysis of Mr Maund, based on data available to him, at the time of writing. Mr. Maund's opinions are his own, and are not a recommendation or an offer to buy or sell securities. Mr. Maund is an independent analyst who receives no compensation of any kind from any groups, individuals or corporations mentioned in his reports. As trading and investing in any financial markets may involve serious risk of loss, Mr. Maund recommends that you consult with a qualified investment advisor, one licensed by appropriate regulatory agencies in your legal jurisdiction and do your own due diligence and research when making any kind of a transaction with financial ramifications. Although a qualified and experienced stockmarket analyst, Clive Maund is not a Registered Securities Advisor. Therefore Mr. Maund's opinions on the market and stocks can only be construed as a solicitation to buy and sell securities when they are subject to the prior approval and endorsement of a Registered Securities Advisor operating in accordance with the appropriate regulations in your area of jurisdiction.The German defense minister has visited her countrys troops in Iraq's Kurdistan region to determine the forces progress in the fight against Daesh extremists and to prepare for a shift in strategy.

The visit on February 10 by Ursula von der Leyen comes as the German government is planning to switch its Iraqi strategy from training Kurdish forces to stabilizing the entire country through "capacity building," although details on the plan have not been revealed.

She said the role of Germany's forces in Iraq must evolve to meet the "needs of Iraq" after a "period of transition" following victory over the Daesh militant group in most parts of the country.

Germany has about 150 soldiers stationed near Irbil, the capital of the Kurdish autonomous region.

The countrys mission in the region formally ends in March.

"Everyone knows that Daesh has been beaten but not completely defeated yet," von der Leyen said.

Earlier in the day, the German defense chief met with the Iraqi leadership, including Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi.

She said Iraqi leaders expressed desires for a "commitment from Germany" for "other forms of engagement," including training and logistics.

A previous planned trip to Iraq by a German leader -- Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel  was called off late last year after the Iraqi government in Baghdad blocked his visit to the Kurdish autonomous region.The Union has announced today that Dame Barbara Stockings visit has been temporarily postponed in light of the recent media attention surrounding her time at Oxfam.

Stocking, president of Murray Edwards, has become the centre of a media storm due to her position as the CEO of Oxfam at a time when senior staff reportedly exploited young girls for sex in Haiti. Stocking has been accused of covering up her staffs misconduct in order to maintain the reputation of the charity.

In a post on Facebook, the Union said "with considerable media attention surround Dame Barbara's time at Oxfam, her and her team have decided that now is not the best time for her to visit the Union." They also said that they "look forward to announcing a new date soon".

The Union has suffered a string of cancellations, with both Orlando Bloom and Mike Flynn cancelling their visits at short notice earlier this year.365 Threat Monitor scans all emails as they reach your users' mailboxes to detect ransomware, phishing and spam. Receive real-time phone alerts, get real-time security breach updates and instantly delete threats with just one click - for free! Learn More.

A renowned Linux innovator has developed a new mobile operating system, called Project eelo, in an effort to provide a level of data privacy that traditional Android and iOS devices fail to offer.

The new eelo system will allow mobile phone users to regain control over their personal information at a price they can afford, said Gael Duval, who created Mandrake Linux back in 1998.

Apple has become too expensive, too boring and is going crazy with its products, he said, while Google has become too big and is capturing too much information about what we do.

They want to know us as much as possible to sell advertising, Duval wrote in a post introducing eelos Kickstarter campaign, which has more than doubled its goal with 14 days remaining.

People are free to do what they want, Duval wrote. They can choose to be voluntary slaves. But I do not want this situation for me anymore.

After deciding to leave Google and Apple for eelo, Duval received more than 6,000 reads from a couple of articles he posted detailing his plans, he told LinuxInsider.

The eelo project on Kickstarter reached more than 200 percent of goal after only 15 days.

More than 2,000 people have registered at eelo.io since December 20 in response to his posted updates, Duval added.

eelos Lineage

The new eelo project is a fork of the LineageOS, which is an open source system that runs mainstream Android applications. Open source modules are layered on top of that, which help create a consistent mobile and Web system, Duval said.

The project, which calls for the developers to sell preloaded eelo smartphones and provide some premium services, will run as a nonprofit. As a community project, it will welcome contributors.

The developers will release privacy-enabled smartphone ROMs, as well as smartphones for ordinary users, with associated Web services.

They have been testing custom builds of LineageOS/eelo on the LeEcho Le2  a 5.5-inch smartphone with a 1080 x 1920 pixel screen, 3G RAM, 32 GB storage, a finger sensor on the back and a 4K camera  for about Pounds130, and on a Xiaomi Mi5S.

The developers plan to have downloadable ROMs for a range of devices by 2018, Duval said, as well as a limited number of post-market Flashed devices. He also plans to discuss partnerships with Fairphone, Essential phone or similar devices, and plans to industrialize the phone by 2019.

Privacy Tradeoffs

Many consumers have expressed a desire for greater control over their experience with mobile devices, but there has to be a balance between the value proposition and customers willingness to share on a personal level.

Information is currency, and people are going to want more control over who has information on their behaviors and habits on a mobile device, said Ryan Spanier, director of research at Kudelski Security.

Eelo is focused on maintaining privacy, he told LinuxInsider, preventing tracking and monetization of your actions without your consent.

There is growing consumer interest in a potentially less-intrusive operating system for mobile devices, but the task of establishing one in the market is daunting, said independent analyst Jeff Kagan.

Though there have been some prior efforts, no alternative mobile OS has been able to compete with iOS and Android, he told LinuxInsider.

Even if privacy is a concern, the majority of consumers dont understand the relationship between privacy and the mechanics of their personal technology well enough to persuade them to make the shift to eelo, suggested Paul Teich, principal analyst at Tirias Research.

Success will be made on social media stickiness and whether enough consumers or organizations think they can get more privacy  whatever that means to them  than stock Google Android or Apple iOS products, he told LinuxInsider.

Developing leading products like the iPhone and other devices involves the willingness to make tradeoffs, noted Gartner analyst Tuong Nguyen.

Companies must invest substantial resources to make their products appeal to the specific needs of their customers, he told LinuxInsider.

Google spends a lot of time and effort to make [products] easy to use, Nguyen said, to keep you within their ecosystem.One of Qualcomm's major competitors, Broadcom, has been trying to woo them into an acquisition for quite some time. Back in November, Broadcom sent Qualcomm an unsolicited $105 billion purchase offer. Qualcomm was quick to reject the proposal with the company's Board of Directors saying it dramatically undervalues the company.

Earlier this month, Broadcom gave Qualcomm their "best and final" offer of $121 billion. Though GBH analyst Daniel Ives said Qualcomm's Board would have a "tough decision" on their hands, the Board rejected that offer as well, once again saying it undervalued the company significantly. Instead, Qualcomm proposed a meeting with Broadcom to persuade them to raise their bid.

Unfortunately, the former may have pushed their luck too far. VentureBeat now reports Broadcom has secured "up to" $100 billion in debt to pursue a hostile takeover of the rival chip company. Broadcom aims to bypass Qualcomm's Board of Directors entirely and appeal directly to the company's shareholders through a vote early in March.

To fund this takeover, Broadcom has sourced credit from 12 different financial bodies, including Wells Fargo, Citigroup, J.P. Morgan and others.He also denounced that the U.S. sanctions against the Syrian people "can be classified as anti-human" and " not legitimate." | Read MoreHe has been described as one of the most annoying contestants ever on the UK version of I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here but former royal butler Paul Burrell is ready to go back into the jungle, and this time Australians will be the ones to judge whether he is, in fact, annoying.

Burrell, who has made a cottage industry of discussing the late Princess Diana, for whom he was a butler, said he is looking forward to telling more stories about his time with the royals.

"If people love the royal family, they will hear wonderful stories," he said ahead of entering the jungle on Tuesday night's episode.

"I'm not breaching any confidences or secrets but if you want to know what the Queen is really like or you want to know what Diana was like, I am going to tell you.If you think what Joyce did to the gay and lesbian community was terrible, let me frighten you even further. In 2006, Joyce was prepared to condemn women to death.

Joyce, then just a Nationals senator in the Howard government, opposed the free provision of a drug which would save the lives of hundreds of women a year.

The drug was Gardasil, a vaccine which would prevent the spread of human papilloma virus (HPV). To be truly effective, girls must be vaccinated before they become sexually active.

Gardasil wasn't like the flu vaccine, where, in an off-year, the vaccine might not protect us all that well. This was a vaccine where trials showed it to be 100 per cent effective in protecting women against being infected with the four strains of HPV that cause nearly 70 per cent of cervical cancers.A specialist legal and social work service that helps some of Canberra's most vulnerable avoid evictions, including those fleeing family violence, could be forced to shut its doors by July.

The free service has been run by Canberra Community Law since 2014, helping residents with disabilities, indigenous Canberrans and those experiencing family violence facing eviction and homelessness.

Executive director of Canberra Community Law Genevieve Bolton. The centre may have to close its doors as early as July. Credit:Dion Georgopoulos

While it has been funded by philanthropic foundations since July 2014, those grants from the Snow Foundation and Clayton Utz Foundation are set to end in July this year, leaving the law centre without money to keep it running.

Law centre executive director Genevieve Bolton said the service, called the socio-legal practice clinic (SLP), was the first of its kind in the ACT - bringing a social worker and lawyer in to work "hand-in-hand" with highly vulnerable people facing complex legal and social situations.When Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull later this year delivers a national apology to child sexual abuse survivors, much of the dreadful damage of which he will be speaking will have been caused by priests the Catholic Church shamefully sought to protect for many years. We know this appalling truth because of the work of official inquiries: one several years ago by the Victorian Parliament and a second, far more extensive, judicial probe  the five-year Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, which ended late last year and made more than 400 recommendations.

The Catholic Church, bountiful evidence to the royal commission showed, was more ready to spend money to protect the church's reputation than to acknowledge the crimes and compensate the survivors.

Credit:Darrian Traynor

As part of its strategy to avoid responsibility and liability, the church misled both inquiries about the value of its assets. We only now know of this because of a six-month investigation by The Age's Royce Millar, Ben Schneiders and Chris Vedelago. The Catholic Church had claimed its assets in Victoria were worth little more than $100 million. The Age's investigation, which was made possible because of a 2013 Victorian law that imposes a fire levy on property and thus requires councils to maintain up-to-date data bases of valuations, has assessed the true figure to be about $9 billion, and that the Catholic Church has national assets worth more than $30 billion, making it one of the biggest property owners in the land.

Yet the church has not only successfully argued it should maintain its tax-free status because it is a charitable organisation, but that it should not have to supply annual financial accounts to the national body that oversees charities, the Australian Charities and Not-For-Profits Commission. This is a glaring lack of accountability. Our investigation will rightly raise questions about the validity of the church's tax-free status and the lack of oversight for its fundraising services.A Brisbane man suffered an electric shock while taking a shower during severe storms that left more than 100,000 south-east Queensland homes without power and steam billowing from the top of a Gold Coast skyscraper.

Paramedics were called to the home in Ferny Grove on Sunday night to attend the man who was injured when lightning struck near his home.

About 50,000 homes remained without power at 7am, down from a high of more than 130,000 shortly after the storm cleared.

Fire crews were called to a Gold Coast residential skyscraper about 7pm after reports smoke was billowing out from the top of the building.CCTV footage captured of the brawl on Chapel Street. Credit:Victoria Police

Four more men from Western Australia have been charged over a "brutal and vicious" mass brawl in Chapel Street, which left a young man seriously injured.

A 19-year-old and three 18-year-olds were charged with affray, rioting, and assault-related offences on Monday.

Another 18-year-old boy was arrested and released without charge.

The group is accused of being in a fight involving about 20 people on Chapel Street, Prahan, about 1am last Thursday.Still heavy traffic on the Monash, where a motorcyclist collided with a truck earlier this morning.

Two left lanes remain closed inbound after the smash at Springvale Road, and delays have built up from the South Gippsland Freeway through to the scene.

VicRoads advises motorists to exit the Monash Freeway early at Stud, Police or Wellington roads and use the Princes Highway as an alternative.

Motorists can re-enter the Monash Freeway from Warrigal Road.

The motorcyclist, aged in his 50s, suffered serious head injuries and was taken to The Alfred hospital. He's in a critical condition.

The delays are also affecting train commuters, who are on buses due to level crossing removals on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines.A Belconnen primary school has welcomed the opening of a two-classroom demountable after capacity issues forced students into the library and community room last year.

The Aranda Parents and Citizens Association wrote to the ACT government last year furious that the library and the community room could no longer be used for their intended purposes thanks to a sudden boost in enrolments.

Education Minister Yvette Berry drops in on a year 3 class learning in Aranda Primary's new transportable building. Credit:Emily Baker

The Education Directorate eventually responded by re-drawing Aranda's priority enrolment area, commissioning the demountable and reviewing the use of non-teaching spaces as classrooms. Findings of the review have not been made public.

Aranda Primary principal Phil Gray said while other principals in similarly popular schools had expressed their frustrations with space limitations, the boost in public school enrolments was also cause for celebration.Paramedics in Canberra were shortstaffed on 40 per cent of last year's shifts, in spite of recording the best ambulance response times in the nation.

Figures provided to the ACT Legislative Assembly showed there were fewer than 10 ambulance crews working on 303 of the 730 shifts last financial year.

Paramedics have confirmed they were repeatedly shorthanded on shift last year. Credit:Rohan Thomson

This is despite the ACT Ambulance Service aiming for 10 crews as a minimum standard for each shift, with an extra two crews helping out in peak times.

An government spokesman said it was common for there to be fewer than 10 crews working in periods of low demand, such as night shifts during the middle of the week.Barnaby Joyce, youll hear from just about anyone now, has crossed a line - though no one seems to know quite how to define precisely what line that may be.

The truth is, hes crossed a web of lines, and it now appears possible he could become the first Australian politician to lose a leadership position to what might be called 21st century moralism.

A generation ago, he probably would have skated through - and he might still. The party room of the Nationals has ousted only one leader - Ian Sinclair in 1989 - in 90 years.

Times, however, have taken a turn against leaders who dont observe contemporary orthodoxy concerning sex.Apples plan for a flagship store at Federation Square, to be created by demolishing one of the squares original buildings, was largely complete almost two years ago, a confidential government report given to The Age shows.

The report, drawings from mid-2016 and undated pictures of an architectural model of the proposed building show a largely unchanged project from designs released by the Andrews government at Christmas.

A design review of the project from May 2016, marked confidential and written by the Victorian Government Architect, indicates overwhelming support for the plan then.

An artist's impression of the planned two-storey Apple flagship shop.

It also flags an intention to involve one of the original architects of Federation Square, Donald Bates, who is said to be likely to bring invaluable, intelligent and positive critique to the project.London: A former UK government minister has accused Alexander Downer of talking blathering nonsense and interfering inappropriately in British politics in a BBC interview where Downer argued the UK could get cheaper food and clothing in a 'hard' Brexit.

Denis MacShane, a former Blair Labour government foreign minister and minister for Europe, complained on Twitter after Australias outgoing high commissioner and former foreign minister told BBC Radio 4 that prices could fall dramatically if the UK left the Customs Union as well as the EU.

Outgoing Australian ambassador to the UK Alexander Downer Credit:Fairfax Media

MacShane said later it is not really correct to intervene so crudely to support the extreme ideology of those who want an amputation with Europe, adding that Downer had "crossed a line".

Downer appeared on the popular Today morning current affairs program on Monday arguing the UK should follow Australias example and unilaterally lower trade barriers once it was outside the EU's Customs Union.This years flu is no fun. Photo: H. Armstrong Roberts/ClassicStock/Getty Images

Even though all we want to do right now is focus our energy on the Olympics (and more specifically, that insane triple axel), we cant stop thinking about this years deadly  and ongoing  flu season. We are constantly inundated with articles about people succumbing to flu-related illnesses (or losing limbs because of the virus), and on Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that one in ten deaths currently happening in the U.S. are a result of the flu. Yikes.

So, we keep wondering how contagious this flu actually is  and what we can do to avoid catching it. Luckily, Dr. Arnold Monto, a professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, was able to offer us some insight.

First off, whats with this flu?

Even though this years strain is pretty horrible, its worth noting that weve seen it before. This particular strain of influenza A isnt anything new per se; its just worse than the other strains we see a bit more often. We know from past experience that this subtype, which has actually been around since 1968, is the one that causes the most complications, Monto explained to the Cut.

So if its not new  then why is it causing so much damage?

The problem with this particular strain of influenza A is just how much its actually spreading, according to Monto. It is not unexpected that we see hospitalizations, especially in those who are in defined risk groups, namely people with underlying conditions, older individuals, and the young, the doctor said. What is unusual this year is that its spreading pretty effectively, and right now its pretty hard to say exactly why that is  especially since we had the same subtype in much of the United States last year.

Okay  so does that mean its more contagious than other flu strains?

Nope! The doctor explained to the Cut that this strain is no different from any influenza in terms of the way it spreads. So in other words, its just as contagious as other forms of the flu. One reason this strain is so widespread this flu season is that there may be a lower immunity to influenza A than other strains in the general population. Otherwise, its still transmitted through large droplets (basically when people are close together and cough and sneeze on one another, how fun) and surfaces.

Fine. How do we avoid it, then?

Avoiding the flu pretty much goes back to the common sense teachings of when you were a kid. You know the drill: Wash your hands, avoid sick people, and stay home when youre sick. But of course, the best way to avoid getting the flu is  drum roll  to get the flu vaccine! Theres still time to get vaccinated, Monto said. It would have been better to get it early, but the vaccine not only contains this subtype  but other subtypes which might continue spreading until April.

But how long does this strain of the flu stay in your system? (Or rather, how long can we stay home to binge the Olympics when were sick?)

According to the doctor, this strain is (again) much like other strains. So in general, the acute illness can last four to five days, but the cough can unfortunately linger for weeks. And beyond that, it can take a while to fully snap back from the flu, since it really is debilitating, especially if you have a full-blown case. But by and large, people are usually only contagious for five days at the most (and maybe a bit longer if theyre younger). The doctor recommends staying home from work for three to five days if youre sick. So thats just enough time to catch up on some figure skating, wed say.15-Year-Old Cheerleader Killed After Tragic Car Crash in Oklahoma

A 15-year-old cheerleader was killed in a crash in Oklahoma over the weekend.

The high school student, Marina McKee, was thrown from the vehicle when the 17-year-old boy who was driving the vehicle crashed into a post on a concrete bridge.

The crash happened in Okemah, reported KFOR.

McKee was pronounced dead at the scene.

The teen driver was rushed to the hospital where he was treated, then released.

Both teens were wearing seatbelts when the single-vehicle crash occurred.

15-year-old cheerleader killed after tragic crash in Oklahoma https://t.co/mqsw9oXqHS pic.twitter.com/Etsqt8NKhA  KFOR (@kfor) February 12, 2018

McKee loved cheerleading, with many pictures of various events related to the activity on her Facebook page.

Okemah Public Schools said in a statement, The faculty, staff, and student body of Okemah Public Schools wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to the family of OHS freshman Marina McKee. Words alone can not express the depth of our sorrow, nor are words adequate to convey our compassion and sympathy in this time of loss. Marina will be greatly missed by her friends, classmates, and teachers, the schools added. We ask that our community keep Marinas family and friends close to your heart and in your prayers. May the peace and grace of God be with the McKee family in this time of mourning.

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Supermarket clerk has sensational voice!Oxfam International Boss Says Haiti Scandal Breaks My Heart

Bigger than Weinstein

The executive director of Oxfam International said on Sunday she was heartbroken by a sexual misconduct scandal in Haiti involving aid workers that prompted Britains government to threaten to cut off aid funding to charities.

Oxfam, one of Britains biggest charities, has condemned the behavior of some former staff in Haiti after The Times said aid workers paid for sex while on a mission to help those affected by the 2010 earthquake.

Oxfam knew of concerns about the conduct of two of the men caught up in the Haiti sex scandal before they were appointed to senior roles in the earthquake-hit country https://t.co/8Mi8mVZTfA  The Times of London (@thetimes) February 12, 2018

Monday briefing: Oxfam pleads for charity amid sex scandal https://t.co/uXbJTv7Fnx  The Guardian (@guardian) February 12, 2018

Britains aid minister said the government would cut aid funding from any charity that did not comply with a new review into their work overseas, calling reports of sexual exploitation in the sector utterly despicable.

Winnie Byanyima, who became executive director of Oxfam International in 2013, said she was saddened by what took place in 2010 and that it could not happen under systems and rules put in place since.

I feel deeply, deeply hurt.  What happened in Haiti was a few privileged men abusing the very people they were supposed to protect  using the power they had from Oxfam to abuse powerless women. It breaks my heart, Byanyima said in an interview with Reuters TV in New York.

We want to restore trust. We want to build that trust. We are committing to be honest, to be transparent and to be accountable in addressing this issue of sexual misconduct. We are in a different place today, she said.

Aid agency Oxfam could lose British funding over reports its workers sexually exploited Haitian minors. Worse, they covered it up, allowing perpetrators like Roland van Hauwermeiren to stay in the aid industry. Now they're "ashamed." Funds should be cut. https://t.co/fxCSiZtkMv  Hillel Neuer (@HillelNeuer) February 12, 2018

British Aid Minister Penny Mordaunt said on Sunday that she would write to British charities that work overseas demanding they declare any problems relating to the duty they have to protect their staff and the people they work with from harm and abuse  so-called safeguarding.

Byanyima said charities must stop people who do not share their values from joining their organizations.

We need to do more in terms of investigations and sharing the results of those investigations so that offenders dont go on to offend in other organizations, she said.

She said Oxfam would share with the relevant authorities all the information it had relating to the 2010 incident.

You know its not within our power to return people who are not our staff to Haiti to face prosecution, she said. But we will avail everything that we know from the investigation to whoever authority, whichever authority wants to have this.

Yes, the #oxfamscandal is terrible. But please don't let it be used to shut down the invaluable work that #Oxfam does around the world. Millions of people in desperate need would suffer as a result.  GeorgeMonbiot (@GeorgeMonbiot) February 12, 2018

If the Oxfam scandal teaches us anything, it should be that not one single organisation is above abuse. Dont ever be fooled that prestigious organisations/professionals are better than  in fact, they often rely on that prestigious reputation to cover up what they are doing.  Jessica Eaton (@Jessicae13Eaton) February 11, 2018

By Angela Moore

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How Doctors in China Turn into MurderersCity Employee Impaled by Pole in Crash

A city staff employee was impaled by a pole Sunday afternoon after a horror crash that nearly took his life.

According to ABC affiliate KSAT, the man crashed his work truck into 50 feet of fencing at the San Fernando Cemetery 2 in San Antonio, Texas.

The employee, who was in his late 20s, was believed to have had a medical episode before the crash.

Its unclear as of writing what the medical complication was.

The worker, whose full identity had not been released yet, was a San Antonio Parks and Recreation employee, the San Antonio Express-News reported.

One witness told police the man had veered off the road into the cemetery fencing when a pole went through the drivers neck and out the back window.

San Antonio Police Sgt. Thomas Haymaker said the employee was traveling west on the 700 block of Castroville Road near General McMullen Drive around 2:20 p.m. when he veered off-road, according to the San Antonio Express-News.

We think maybe he had a medical episode, Haymaker told the newspaper. The fact that he took 50 feet of line (fence) out, I just think something went wrong with this guy.

According to a newspaper reporter who was at the scene, coils of the fence were caught in the front of the truck. It also appeared that the airbag had been deployed.

A SAPD Sergeant has arrived on scene as police continue to investigate. A considerable length of fence from the cemetery has been torn down with coils of it caught in the front of the truck. pic.twitter.com/So5ffi1fGX  Alexandro Luna (@alexluna801) February 11, 2018

Emergency personnel had to cut away part of the fence pole before the victim was able to be sent to the hospital with it still impaled in his neck, KSAT reported.

The city employee was transported to University Hospital where he currently remains in critical condition.

According to the San Antonio Express-News, no one else was injured in the crash.

Police are describing it as an accident.

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Firefighter Going Over 100 mph Before Deadly CrashColorado Couples Life Savings Go Down With Sunken Sailboat

A couple who sold most of their belongings in the hopes of buying a boat and sailing around the world hit an obstacle when their boat sank the day after they left.

Nikki Walsh, 24, and Tanner Broadwell, 26, said they prepared for months before setting off on the trip, which was slated to last one year.

[We] had planned for a year to buy a sailboat, live on it and sail to the Carribean. Our future plans were to sail the world one day, Walsh wrote on GoFundMe.

We sold all of our belongings and car to buy our 28ft sailboat and moved into it with our 2-year-old pug, Remy. We finally got the boat ready for our trip to Key West from Tarpon Springs Florida after working in a boatyard and delivering boats for a few months we left with food and supplies, she continued.

The next day we motored into Johns Pass to anchor for the night and ran into a submerged object in the water and our dreams and hard work sank beneath us so fast. We lost every single one of our belongings with no insurance, but we all made it to land alive & we are not giving up on our dreams! she wrote.

Broadwell told ABC that the boat sank in about 8 or 9 feet of water.

They only had time to grab their social security cards, cash, and a few clothes.

Everything Ive worked for, everything Ive owned since I was a child, I brought with me. Its just floating away and theres nothing I can do, recalled Walsh.

The couple had no sailing experience before planning their trip, reported The Tampa Bay Times.

The couple asked people for $10,000 through GoFundMe, to get the ship out of the water.

Anything extra would go toward a new boat.

We cant just give up on our dreams, Walsh said.

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President Donald Trump: Year 1Highway 18-151 near Rte. 69 in Verona, Wis., where the crash occurred (Screenshot via Google Maps)

Dense Fog in Verona, Wisconsin Causes Multi-Car Crash Which Claims One Life

A patch of dense fog seems to be the cause of a multivehicle pileup that left at least one person dead on Highway 18-151 in Verona, Wisconsin, on Feb. 12.

According to WISC-TV, the Dane County Sheriffs Office got numerous calls just before 8 a.m. Monday morning about a chain-reaction collision in morning commuter traffic.

HEADS UP: Major crash reported on US 18/151 near #Verona in Dane County. Plan ahead and use alternate routes to avoid delays. @511WI https://t.co/tEYNFnTTov pic.twitter.com/K0DQDUXY0r  WisDOT SW Region (@WisDOTsouthwest) February 12, 2018

No one is certain what set off the crash, but patches of dense fog lingering in low-lying areas of the roadway seem to be a contributing factor, according to WISC.

A small patch of very dense ice fog contributed to the massive pileup on US 18-151 this morning. Here are the weather conditions necessary to get ice/frozen fog to form. The crash occured very close to the Badger Mill Creek. #swiwx #wiwx pic.twitter.com/A3L9bJdXQ5  Dave Caulfield (@DaveCaulfield_) February 12, 2018

Sheriffs Department spokeswoman Elise Schaffer said at least one person was killed in the pileup. Several people were injured and several ambulances and a medical helicopter were dispatched to the scene, WISC reported.

Dane County dispatch originally reported 1015 cars were involved, though WISC reported the number might be as many as 20.

Family members looking to pick up someone involved in this mornings crash should go to the Verona Fire Department.  Dane County Sheriff (@DaneSheriff) February 12, 2018

Uninjured drivers and passengers were transported to the Verona Fire Department, according to the sheriff. They asked people concerned about loved ones to call the fire department instead of clogging the crash site.

The eastbound side of Highway 181-151 will be shut down until about 4 p.m. according to the Verona Police Department. Traffic is being rerouted at Exit 77, so travelers should plan ahead to adjust their routes.

We've had reports of people moving barricades and driving on the closed portion of the Highway. Please don't do that. The road is closed for a reason!  Verona PD (@VeronaWI_PD) February 12, 2018

Verona police asked motorists to respect the warning signs and barricades, and not drive through the crash site until the investigation is complete.

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Firefighter Going Over 100 mph Before Deadly CrashDetroit Standoff Ends With 4 Dead, 3 Police Officers Wounded

A standoff that saw a gunman barricade himself inside a home in Detroit ended early Monday, Feb. 12, with four people dead and three police officers wounded.

The gunman was among the dead.

Lance Smith, 49, barricaded himself inside a home in the 19400 block of Lamont, Detroit police told The Detroit News.

Smith fired shots around 10:30 p.m. on Sunday night. Within 10 minutes, police officers arrived on scene and came under fire, during which one officer was wounded.

Smith ultimately killed his girlfriend and two of her friends who had gone to the home to help with a domestic situation, officers said.

The first officer wounded is related to the victims, including the girlfriend, reported WXYZ.

A male inside the house was also shot but survived.

Two other officers were wounded during the ensuing standoff.

All officers were shot in their legs, although all are considered minor injuries.

Police said the suspect told them he was not going down without a fight, according to ABC13.

The standoff ended after about 14 hours, when police entered the home and found four bodies and the wounded man. Robots preceded the officers, and located the four bodies.

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Boiling water turns to snowFoster Father Charged After Baby Found With 35 Broken Bones

A foster father in Indiana has been charged after he apparently admitted under questioning that he left a 2-month-old baby in his care with 35 broken bones.

Doctors at the Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis were shocked when x-rays revealed the extent of the injuries.

Investigators said that Kyle Rice eventually admitted that he caused the injuries.

Its certainly very tragic. Children 5 and under are at the greatest risk of child abuse and neglect, Sharon Pierce, who runs the Villages of Indiana, a nonprofit that provides child and family services, told WB-TV.

I think for those of us who work in the child welfare system, what can we learn to prevent this from ever happening again.

Court documents state that Rice said he tried to calm the baby down, but she continued to cry.

He tried to give her a bottle, but she was spitting it out. He then changed her diaper and she pooped while he was changing it. He held her, but she continued to cry and wouldnt calm down.

Thats when he began bending her legs and squeezing her hands and feet to the point that bones became broken.

Rices wife said she didnt know about the mistreatment as she works full-time while her husband stays at home with the foster children and three children that theyve adopted over the years.

Rices mother sparked the investigation after she noticed a suspicious mark on the babys leg, and alerted Rices wife.

Rices wife then rushed the baby to a doctor, reported WISH-TV.

The trial for child neglect and battery charges is scheduled for April.

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Timelapse Video Captures Ocean of Clouds Over Vancouver, British Columbia

Epoch Newsroom

ideo]The original Genius brand kitchen-cutting device on the left, compared to the Chinese knockoff version on the right. (Courtesy of Aktion Plagiarius)

German Plagiarism Awards All Go to Chinese Companies Making Knockoff Goods

Chinas notorious reputation as the leading producer of counterfeit goods has officially been recognized.

Aktion Plagiarius, a German organization that raises awareness about intellectual property theft, recently awarded Chinese companies top prizes in its annual Plagiarius awards that name and shame imitators.

Counterfeit goods cost Germanys economy about 30 billion euros (about $36.7 billion) annually, according to a report by Deutsche Welle.

In 2016 alone, European customs officials seized more than 41 million intellectual property-infringing goods, estimated at a value of 670 million euros (about $820 million), according to Aktion Plagiarius. China was the number one country of origin for those goods.

This years 42nd iteration of the awards gave all three main prizes to Chinese manufacturers. Judges place special emphasis on clumsy imitations that deliberately look deceptively similar to the original product and that show absolutely no creative or constructive personal contribution, according to Aktion Plagiarius press release.

Pingyang County Leyi Gift Co. located in Zhejiang Province, China won for copying a German companys kitchen cutting device. The cutting blades on the imitation product were found to be blunt and easily breakable.

Meanwhile, Sunny Kingdom copied the design of an inflatable water park contraptionand even adopted the same concept as the original for its commercial video.

Xingtai Kurbao Toys Co. imitated a toy car made by German firm Puky and marketed it under a Chinese brand name, Qidong. The original cost 66 euros (about $81), whereas the counterfeit version cost just 10 euros ($12), indicating the latter used cheaper materials and workmanship.

Two other Chinese companies were given a distinction award: one copying an Italian brands silicone molds for baking, with almost identical packaging and brand name, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish the real from the fake; and a touch-safe heater from China that even imitated the same user manual and certificate numbers, but had significant difference in quality, performance, and safety standards.

Due to Akton Plagiarius public shaming, after the awards announcement, many companies often withdraw their remaining stock from the market, sign cease and desist letters, or publicly reveal their suppliers, according to the organization.

China is the worlds biggest exporter of counterfeit goods, accounting for more than 70 percent of global physical trade-related counterfeiting, according to a 2016 report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Moreover, counterfeit goods, pirated software, and theft of trade secrets are estimated to cost the U.S. economy more than $225 billion and up to $600 billion annually, according to the IP Commission, an independent group of experts who investigate the theft of American intellectual property.

Li Xinan contributed to this report.Harvey Weinstein attends the DeGrisogono 'Love On The Rocks' during the 70th annual Cannes Film Festival in Cap d'Antibes, France, on May 23, 2017. (Andreas Rentz/Getty Images)

Harvey Weinstein, His Brother, and Their Company Hit With Civil Rights Lawsuit in NY

Harvey Weinstein, the movie producer who has been accused by numerous women of sexual assault and harassment, is now facing a civil rights lawsuit.

Weinstein has been accused by dozens of women of inappropriate behavior and at least five cases could potentially lead to formal charges.

Now a formal lawsuit has been filed by the attorney general in New York against Weinstein, his brother, and their company.

The Weinstein Company repeatedly broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation, and discrimination, Eric Schneiderman, the attorney general, said in a statement.

Any sale of The Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched. Every New Yorker has a right to a workplace free of sexual harassment, intimidation, and fear.

The suit comes as the brothers attempt to sell their company, which was founded in 2005.

According to the Los Angeles Times, a deal was expected to be finalized on Sunday but appears to have been postponed.

Former Obama administration official Maria Contreras-Sweet was the interested buyer.

Lawsuit filed by NY Attorney General claims Harvey Weinstein threatened to "kill" employees at his former company and had "wing women" to satisfy his "sexual conquests." https://t.co/s2gjUA9hvt pic.twitter.com/OL9oSM2yQw  ABC News (@ABC) February 12, 2018

#BREAKING: My office just filed a civil rights lawsuit against the Weinstein Company. Any sale of the company must ensure victims are adequately compensated, employees are protected, and that enablers of sexual misconduct will not be unjustly enriched.https://t.co/VGcDpc2pkT pic.twitter.com/GyHV9pUS72  Eric Schneiderman (@AGSchneiderman) February 11, 2018

The investigation leading to the new lawsuit started in October after allegations of Weinsteins sexual misconduct started.

Hes also being investigated in New York City, London, and California as police work to confirm various allegations.

Weinstein has denied he ever engaged in non-consensual sex.

The new lawsuit claims that the companys board of directors and executives failed to protect employees from Weinsteins predatory behavior, despite widespread knowledge of his actions.

Groups of female employees helped Weinstein complete his so-called conquests, according to the suit. The women were described as Weinsteins wing women.

A separate group, predominantly female, served as Weinsteins assistants and, according to the press release announcing the suit, were compelled to take various steps to further HWs regular sexual activity, including by contacting Friends of Harvey and other prospective sexual partners via text message or phone at his direction and maintaining space on his calendar for sexual activity.

According to Schneiderman, This employee, and other TWC employees, believed that they would face adverse employment consequences unless they acquiesced to such demands.

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Matt Lauer Issues Apology After Firing Over Sexual HarassmentThe prescription medicine OxyContin is displayed at a Walgreens drugstore in Brookline, MA on August 21, 2001. (Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)

Leading Painkiller Company Says It Will Stop Promoting Opioid Drugs to Doctors

Manufacturer of the powerful opioid painkiller OxyContin, Purdue, has said it will stop promoting opioid drugs to doctors.

Purdue has reduced over half its sales staff and will stop sending them out to doctors offices to talk about their opioid products. Instead, the remaining sales staff will focus on marketing other medications, Fox News reported.

The decision comes after a series of lawsuits blamed the drug maker for helping trigger the opioid epidemic, the Los Angeles Times reported.

We have restructured and significantly reduced our commercial operation and will no longer be promoting opioids to prescribers, the company said in a statement obtained by the Times. Going forward, questions and requests for information about our opioid products will be handled through direct communications with  our medical affairs department.

Dr. Andrew Kolodny, director of opioid policy research at Brandeis University, told the Times that the decision comes too late.

The genie is already out of the bottle, said Kolodny, according to the Times. Millions of Americans are now opioid-addicted because the campaign that Purdue and other opioid manufacturers used to increase prescribing worked well. 

Purdues OxyContin is the worlds top-selling opioid painkiller.

According to Fox News, Purdues promotions for the product minimized the risks associated with the opioid painkiller and exaggerated its safe use.

Kolodny said that Purdue is still using that same strategy to market opioids in other countries.

If it takes off the way it did in the United States, these other countries will be dealing with the same problem we are dealing with today, he told the Times.

Kolodny also thinks that the changes in marketing wont make an impact if other opioid makers dont also cease promoting their opioid drugs.

OxyContin has made Purdue tens of billions of dollars over the last two decades. More than 7 million Americans have abused OxyContin since it was introduced in 1996.

The Sackler family and their private company, Purdue Pharma, built their empire with the lives of hundreds of thousands, wrote photographer Nan Goldin, a former OxyContin addict, in Artforum magazine. The family has used a lot of its wealth to support art institutions.

Purdue earlier made efforts to reduce opioid abuse by making its pills more difficult to ingest in the ways illegal drug users are likely to use, including through the nose, by smoking, or through injection, the Times reported. But instead of curtailing deaths, former OxyContin abusers switched to heroin, and the epidemic continued with no reduction in the net amount of deaths, according to the Times.

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How Doctors in China Turn into MurderersPhoto of British girl Madeleine McCann, AKA Maddie is displayed on a TV screen during the broadcast of German ZDF's 'Aktenzeichen XY' program at an apartment in Berlin, Germany on Oct. 16, 2013. (Johannes Eisele/AFP/Getty Images)

Madeleine McCann Investigators Ask UK Government for More Money to Pay for Probe

Police in the United Kingdom have requested more funding to investigate the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, which has baffled investigators since 2007.

The Daily Mirror reported that the Metropolitan Police, which is in charge of police activity across London, approached the U.K. Home Office for more money. The Home Office confirmed that more funding is being considered.

In March, funding for the investigation is slated to run out, the report noted.

McCann, who was 3, disappeared in Paia da Luz in Portugal in May of 2007. So far, about $15 million has been spent on the investigation into the girls disappearance.

A Home Office spokesperson told The Guardian, The Home Office has provided funding to the Metropolitan Police for Operation Grange and the resources required are reviewed regularly with careful consideration given before any new funding is allocated.

A spokesperson for the family also released a statement.

Clarence Mitchell, the McCann family spokesman, told the Mirror: The Met Police will put in a further request for funds if they feel work still needs to be done. Money in the Madeleine Fund gives Kate and Gerry the option to pick up their own inquiries again, if they choose, with private investigators.

Kate and Gerry McCann, the girls parents, said they havent given up hope of finding Madeleine, who would now be a teenager.

Right now we are committed to taking the current inquiry as far as we possibly can and we are confident that will happen. Ultimately this, and the previous work, gives all of us the very best chance of getting the answers  although we must, of course, remember that no investigation can guarantee to provide a definitive conclusion, the Met police said last year, according to The Guardian.

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How Doctors in China Turn into MurderersSchool Crossing Warden Told to Stop High-Fiving Children

A British school crossing patrol warden was told to stop high-fiving children by local authority bosses because it could be construed as grooming.

He quit.

The story went viral, making the national TV news, and shocking pupils and parents who gave fond farewells. However, the 77-year-old was offered a new jobin which he can high-five to his hearts content.

Bryan Broom had worked for nearly 20 years as a lollipop man (a British term for crossing guard), helping children get safely to school in the northeastern city of Hull, England.

After a number of complaints about his habit of high-fiving the children of Kirk Ella St Andrews Primary School, however, the local council warned him to stop.

Not wanting to live under the yoke of political correctness however, he decided to quit on Feb. 8only to be offered another job by a local business owner.

Broom later revealed to local newspaper the Hull Daily Mail why he had quit, despite the complaints against him not being upheld.

I used to high-five the kids until I was told it could be construed as groomingthat is what the council told me.

If I carried on I would feel so frustrated that I would have to watch my Ps and Qs all the time.

I wouldnt know how to talk to people because I am a rather outgoing person.

Broom said he was thankful for the support he received from many well-wishers.

This political correctness has been perpetuated by a small minority of people and in the last couple of days, the majority has proved to me that Mr and Mrs Ordinary are wonderful people and they dont want this political correctness.

Geri McLeod-Pratt, 46, told the Hull Daily Mail: I think its pathetic and I just think the world is going crazy.

Some people are oversensitive and have no sense of humor and I just think its a real shame.

When Bryan told me I was so upset for him because he is a lovely man.

The council confirmed that there had been a number of complaints about Mr. Broom. These complaints were investigated but not upheld. Mr. Broom is choosing to leave of his own accord and we wish him well in the future, said the council in a widely reported statement.

One of the parents who complained told the Hull Daily Mail why he had complained.

Mr. Thompson said: Bryan used the lollipop stick to tap our child on his head whilst crossing at the designated patrol site.

Because of that it got to the point that he didnt want to cross where Bryan was.

Mr. Thompson, who worked in a safety critical managerial role for 18 years, said he was glad Broom had resigned.

He should be focused on watching the road. He shouldnt be high-fiving people and using his stick to bash people on the head.

He is on a busy junction and that is what I wanted East Riding Council to address.

But Broom was quickly offered a new job over social media by the owner of a local car wash, Jonathan Wray, the Hull Daily Mail reported.

You can high five as many of my customers as you like, laugh and joke with them, and make them smile, wrote Wray on the Daily Mail facebook page. Im sure the locals would love to see you out and about.

Local authorities in Manchester recently also intervened to stop a lollipop man high-fiving children, according to the Metro, texting parents to ask them to stop their children from high-fiving 83-year-old Colin Spencer on the way to school, as it is causing a disruption.

Spencer told the Metro: Ive been doing it for 14 years. Its not brain surgery, thats what I told my manager.

But she was telling me how I need to hold my stick and that I mustnt high-five the kids because its too much of a disruption.

I can try to explain to the older ones that the council wont let me, but the little ones wouldnt understand.

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Brothers Step in When They See Man Harassing Two Teen Girls on New York SubwayTaliban Deputy Khalid Mehsud Killed in Drone Attack in Pakistan

A high-ranking leader of the Pakistani Taliban died in a U.S. drone attack, the terrorist organization confirmed on Monday, Feb. 12.

Khalid Mehsud was the deputy leader of the banned Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan, or TPP, which is the main faction of the Pakistani Taliban. The group is responsible for dozens of suicide bombings and other terrorist attacks.

Pakistani Taliban confirm deputy leader Khalid Mehsud killed in drone strike https://t.co/t8Zp6C4YfF pic.twitter.com/FnqQTLhye4  DNA (@dna) February 12, 2018

Mehsud was killed in a drone strike in North Waziristan, located near the border with Afghanistan, the group said in a statement, the BBC reported.

We confirm that deputy head of the TTP Khalid Mehsud died in a drone strike, said a spokesman, Mohammad Khurasani, Reuters reported. He said Pakistani Taliban chief Mullah Fazlullah appointed a commander called Mufti Noor Wali Wali to replace their dead deputy.

Mehsud, also known as Sajna, was killed along with his nephew and two guards, according to The Express Tribune. The vehicle was completely destroyed, an intelligence official told the Pakistani publication.

#Taliban confirms death of deputy leader Khalid Mehsud https://t.co/jXe9yuR3FA  Agenda Of Evil (@AgendaOfEvil) February 12, 2018

Mehsud, who had two wives and belonged to the Shobi Khel tribe, was placed on the U.S. Designated Terrorist list in October 2014, according to the Express Tribune.

Wali, according to Reuters, will now train militants in South Waziristan, a rugged mountainous region on the Afghan border which has long been home to Pakistani, Afghan, and al Qaeda-linked foreign militants.

Militant sources said Wali, known by the nickname Ghar Starga, is a ruthless leader with experience working in Pakistani urban areas including the southern city of Karachi.

Khalid Mehsud aka Khan Syed Sajna, current deputy of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and chief of the Mehsud Halqa/faction killed in drone strike in Margha, Barmal, Afghanistan. The drone hit his pickup. Three body guards including Ismail, his khuriye (newphew) killed. pic.twitter.com/dlVdOzLeuT  Asfandyar Mir (@asfandyarmir) February 9, 2018

While U.S. and Afghan forces accuse Pakistan of failing to stop Afghan Taliban militants using safe havens on the Pakistani side of the border, Pakistani Taliban militants have been waging a campaign of bombings and other attacks on Pakistans security forces.

The Pakistani military mounted a major offensive against the militants in 2014, forcing many of them to withdraw into Afghanistan.

The border region is off limits to journalists and verifying information independently is difficult.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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How Doctors in China Turn into MurderersStudents at Florida State University protest an appearance on campus of the communist political activist and academic Angela Davis, in Tallahassee, Fla., on Jan. 16, 2018. (FSU College Republicans)

Florida University Gives Funds to Communist Revolutionary Speaker

Communist Angela Davis ran into some unexpected resistance recently at Florida State University (FSU), which spent $31,000 to bring the former Lenin Peace Prize winner to FSU for a talk to students about revolution. About 20 members of the College Republicans protested her appearance with chants of Hey Hey Ho Ho Communism has got to go and signs proclaiming Noles Against Communism and identifying 100 million deaths from communist ideology.

Noles is shorthand for Florida State Seminoles and applies to students, athletes, or graduates from the prestigious public college in the state of Florida.

The total $31,000 cost of the event was disclosed in documents released to this writer under the Florida Public Records law. A limousine was included for Davis. Browning Brooks, assistant vice president for university communications, said, Im told that FSU was not permitted by contract to film, record or photograph this presentation in any manner.

But according to a report in a local paper, the Tallahassee Democrat, Davis turned the concert hall where she spoke into a political science classroom and reminded her overflow audience that the revolution isnt over yet. Before she became a professor of consciousness and feminist studies, Davis was associated with the Moscow-funded Communist Party USA.

The controversy has drawn renewed attention to perceived liberal-left domination of major American colleges and universities. Davis is one of the most popular speakers during Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations and Black History Month on college campuses.

Before she became a professor of consciousness and feminist studies, Angela Davis was associated with the Moscowfunded Communist Party USA.

FSU College Republican Chairman Landon Schneider drew a distinction between King, a proponent of nonviolent civil disobedience, and Davis, who was on the FBIs Most Wanted List for her alleged involvement in a kidnapping and murder. She was acquitted of the charges in 1972 after Soviet propaganda on a worldwide basis depicted her as a political prisoner. Davis was also associated with the Black Panthers, a group that referred to police as pigs and engaged in firefights with Oakland police in 1967 and 1968, killing one officer and wounding two others.

She spreads a communist agenda that is clearly not what our government and Founding Fathers wanted, Schneider said. He and other members of his group decided to issue a press release, print up signs, and then organize a demonstration outside the campus auditorium where Davis was speaking.

The official description of the Jan. 16 event during Martin Luther King Jr. birthday week described the former Communist Party vice-presidential candidate as an activist, educator, and scholar who has been instrumental in movements for social justice around the world. But College Republicans researched Daviss controversial background and issued a statement declaring that, While we support Ms. Daviss right to speak freely, we are vehemently against the University using student tuition to sponsor an individual who supports communist regimes that have been directly responsible for the deaths of millions of innocent people.

Her receipt of the Lenin Peace Prize was recorded in an Associated Press video that is now posted on YouTube. Davis hugs a communist official and pays tribute to the Soviet revolution, with a bust of Lenin in the background.

In addition to her involvement with the Black Panthers and world communist movement, Davis was a public supporter of the Peoples Temple, run by Marxist preacher Jim Jones, which staged a mass revolutionary suicide in Guyana in 1978 that cost the lives of some 900 followers. Members of the group also killed a visiting member of Congress, Rep. Leo Ryan (DCalif.), who was investigating human rights violations by Jones.

Davis had referred to my friend Jim Jones and all my sisters and brothers from Peoples Temple who were in Guyana and fighting against oppression and racism. She said, I know you are in a very difficult situation right now and there is a conspiracya very profound conspiracy designed to destroy the contributions which you have made to our struggle.

Schneider said he learned that people involved in the Student Government Association, the campus speakers bureau known as the Golden Tribe Lecture Series, and possibly the college administration were involved in the decision to sponsor Davis.

The FSU president is John Thrasher, a Florida State University alumnus and former Republican state legislator. A letter asking what he knew about Daviss background has gone unanswered.

In advance of their protest of Davis, the FSU College Republicans attacked the university authorities for arranging a one-sided presentation. They declared, With the Universitys history of consistently hosting liberal Golden Tribe lecturers such as Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, Melissa Harris-Perry, and self-proclaimed scientist Bill Nye, it is not surprising that they would continue to further the ideological imbalance on college campuses instead of presenting a balance of liberal and conservative viewpoints. The Golden Tribe is a lecture series sponsored by the Student Government Association.

Schneider said protesters were quarantined in a special area and were not permitted to approach any people waiting in line to see Davis.

The FSU authorities arranged the Davis appearance through the Lavin Agency speakers bureau, which advertises Davis as someone who believes in liberating minds as well as liberating society. Lavin Agency stated, Her work as an educatorboth at the university level and in the larger public spherehas always emphasized the importance of building communities of struggle for economic, racial, and gender equality. Nothing is said in the promotional materials about her commitment to communism.

One requirement for the Davis appearance was that she was a strict vegan who could not be served any meat and was also gluten-free. Davis has described animals as sentient beings who endure pain and torture as they are transformed into food for profit, food that generates disease in humans whose poverty compels them to rely on McDonalds and KFC for nourishment. The group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has called Davis a liberation icon who has highlighted the connection among all forms of exploitation and oppression.

However, Davis has mostly focused on criminals as alleged victims of capitalism, urging the complete abolition of prisons through the group Critical Resistance, funded in part by billionaire George Soros.

Cliff Kincaid is a writer and broadcaster based in the Washington, D.C. area. He can be reached at Kincaid@comcast.net

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.Texas Mom Dies From Flu After Deciding Medicine Was Too Costly: Report

A mother in Texas died over the weekend after reportedly deciding against purchasing medicine to treat the flu because of how much it was.

Heather Holland, a second-grade teacher at an elementary school in Weatherford, opted against purchasing the $116 medication to treat the virus.

The payment would have been a copay, her husband Frank Holland said.

He said when he found out, he bought the medication himself, but thinks by that time it was already too late, reported the Weatherford Democrat.

Heather Holland initially got sick on Monday, Jan. 29, and felt too sick to go to work the following Wednesday. She was diagnosed with Influenza-B and developed pneumonia, reported Fox2.

Things got worse by the weekend.

Friday night, things escalated and she ended up in the ICU, Frank Holland said. The doctors got the blood cultures back and they had to put her on dialysis early Saturday.



Clark Bosher, a pastor at the church where the Hollands attend, attributed Heather Holland not buying the medicine because she was focused on work and her family.

She wouldnt go get medicine because shes a mama. Mamas are tough. She just kept going. She had a job; she had kids. Frank was going to be out of town for a day or two. I think any mom does that. I dont think she is being irresponsible. I dont think she thought she was that sick. It happened so quick, Bosher said.

Parents and peers were shocked by the death, with many having to explain what happened to their children.

You never know some people younger and older doesnt impact them as hard, and then you hear of somebody young die, said parent Mirella Ramirez. Do whatever you can to prevent yourself from getting sick. And if you do get sick, take it seriously. Go see a doctor.

From NTD.tv

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First Lady Melania Trump Visits United States Holocaust Memorial MuseumPolice patrol outside the Joy City Mall in the Xidan district after a knife attack, in Beijing, China, on Feb. 11, 2018. (Reuters/Jason Lee)

Woman Killed, 12 Injured in Beijing Mall Knife Attack

BEIJINGA woman was killed and 12 other people injured after a man carried out a knife attack in a mall in a busy shopping district in the Chinese capital, Beijing, police said on Sunday.

Beijing police said in a short statement they had detained a man over the early afternoon attack at the Joy City Mall in the Xidan district.

Three men and 10 women were sent to hospital after the attack and one woman died of her injuries, police said. The others were all expected to recover.

Police said they acted quickly in handling the incident and identified the detained man as a 35-year-old surnamed Zhu from the northern province of Henan.

The man had already confessed to carrying out the attack to express his discontent, they said but did not elaborate.

Beijing radio showed pictures on their WeChat account of blood spattered on the floor in part of the mall and at least one injured person being taken from the scene.

Violent crime is rare in China compared with many other countries, especially in major cities where security is tight, but there has been a series of knife and axe attacks in recent years, many targeting children.

By Ben Blanchard

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How Doctors in China Turn into MurderersNORWALK  Huddled around a computer screen in their classroom at Columbus Magnet School, the students in Katy Ghadiyalis fifth grade class watched in horror as Hurricane Maria slammed into the Caribbean.

Immediately, the students knew they needed to do something.

The islands are important to our teacher so when we heard about the hurricanes we thought we needed to do something to cheer her up, said fifth-grader Elisabeth Mastrota. So first we did Adopt a Family and we collected clothes and stuff, and then we learned about Adopt a Classroom and we thought that was a good thing for us to do.

Through the Adopt a Classroom program, the students were matched with a sixth grade class at Lew Muckle Elementary School in St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The school has been condemned due to damage from the storm, and the students now attend half-day sessions at another school, which has also reduced its schooling to half-day sessions in order to accommodate the additional students, Ghadiyali said.

Ghadiyalis class has already collected and mailed 10 boxes of school supplies, and has collected another nine yet to be sent. Last week, the PTA at Columbus funded a printer and ink for the classroom.

The teacher did not have electricity for a long time so she had been handwriting all of the assignments, Ghadiyali said. Then we she did get electricity the school didnt have a printer so she was doing it at home.

Ghadiyali will travel to St. Croix this week to deliver more packages of school supplies and meet with the teacher and students of the classroom they connected with. Her family has ties to the Virgin Islands.

The students made commercials to engage the rest of the school, asking each grade level to collect different items. They also sent boxes of books and toys, and are still in the process of collecting items to send even though the three-month Adopt a Classroom is technically over. The class has also started a GoFundMe page to collect donations that will cover postage costs and help purchase additional supplies.

We really just tried to give them everything we could because they were devastated and we were devastated for them, said Laszlo Balazs, a student in Ghadiyalis class. When I really think about it, it just ties into what Columbus is all about.

Ghadiyali said the teacher in St. Croix was surprised to learn the donations were coming from a classroom because most donations to the program have come from corporations. The connection has resulted in a long-distance relationship between the two classrooms and the students have started writing letters to each other.

I felt warm inside when we sent the boxes, said Bryner Lizano-Quesada, a student in Ghadiyalis class. I feel happy when I help other people. Im always going to remember the fun time I had in fifth grade.

kkrasselt@hearstmediact.com; 203-842-2563; @kaitlynkrasseltNORWALK  Cornerstone Community Church held a Scout Sunday service to mark the anniversary of the Boy Scouts of Americas founding, and the churchs sponsorship of Troop 19 for almost 88 years.

Scouts helped with service, leading prayers, acting as ushers, and reading Bible passages. They also told the congregation and visiting relatives about their adventures over the last year camping. The congregation had a brunch afterward.In this ongoing column, The Digest, Entrepreneur.com News Director Stephen J. Bronner speaks with food entrepreneurs and executives to see what it took to get their products into the mouths of customers.

Amanda Wee didn't know it at the time, but in September 2015 she had reached "an inflection point" in her life. The Singapore native had just gotten out of a serious relationship and felt burnt out at her corporate finance job.

"I knew I was ready for a change, and I wanted to do something that I was deeply passionate about," she says. "But the truth is that I had no idea what it was."

Image credit: Courtesy Amanda Wee/Pique Tea



Little did she know that a trip to San Francisco to visit her sister would not only result in her meeting the co-founder of her first entrepreneurial venture, Pique Tea, makers of cold brew instant tea, but also her future husband.

Related: The Founders of RXBar, Acquired by Kellogg for $600 Million, Built the Company by 'Having a Bias Toward Action'

They happen to be the same person, Simon Cheng. But did love or business come first?

"Because I had just gotten out of a very serious relationship, I was not looking for anything [romantic]," she says. "So definitely what came first was I fell in love with his mission of spreading the Eastern way of healing through tea to the West."

Wee returned to Singapore, and communicated with Cheng through FaceTime and Skype about the business. They had only seen each in person seven times before he asked Wee's father for her hand in marriage, a mere three months after they first met. She quit her job and flew to San Francisco.

In the year and a half that Pique has been in business, it's already seen a lot of success. The company's products launched in 30 Whole Foods stores in September of 2016 and now can be found in 1,500 stores nationwide, including Whole Foods, Sprouts and Wegmans, Wee says. Pique is also featured on Amazon Launchpad and available in the micro kitchens of companies including Facebook and Airbnb. The company, now based in Los Angeles, was also recently selected to be part of Chobani's food incubator. It will launch a line of caffeine-free herbal teas in March.

Entrepreneur.com spoke with Wee about Pique, along with marketing to and educating customers.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

What's the origins of Pique Tea?

Simon basically had a series of health problems. He had screws in his chin, severe sleep apnea, both his lungs collapsed. He'd gone through three or four pretty major surgeries before the age of 30. That really inspired him to take on a very preventative approach to health. This led him to travel extensively across Asia. He was living in China at the time and on one of his backpacking trips he stumbled across Yunnan Province where tea was first discovered 5,000 years ago. There, he found villages taking whole tea leaves and boiling it in pots and reducing it into a resin, which they would eat.

Image credit: Courtesy Amanda Wee/Pique Tea



He was so inspired by this process that he wanted to share it with the world. So he worked with tea extraction specialists, tea masters and farmers to [create] the patented process called cold crystallization, whereby we take whole tea leaves and we cold brew it for up to eight to 10 hours. Once we had the brew, we filter the tea leaves out and we use a very mild dehydration process to reduce the tea into a tea crystal. We're the first company to do this.

Related: Why You Must Be Brave Enough Not to Live in Last Year's World

Most Americans, when they do drink tea, consume it from bottles and cans. What makes Pique stand out and why do you think it's done well so far?

Our tea crystals disrupt a category that has not seen innovation for 100 years since the tea bag was invented. Pique delivers whole leaf quality tea in an instant in cold water and delivers six times the antioxidants of tea bags. So it beats all competition in the market on three major fronts: quality, taste and convenience. At the same time, millennials are the first generation of Americans to have an equal presence of tea and coffee.

How did Pique land its first big distribution deal and what can entrepreneurs learn from your experience?

So the first distribution deal that I closed myself was Wegmans. I hounded the rep and the distributor for a meeting with a buyer until I got one. This was really the result I would say of sheer persistence and persuasion -- having a good enough product was definitely not good enough.

Image credit: Courtesy Amanda Wee/Pique Tea



When the buyer agreed [to a meeting] I flew to Rochester, N.Y. I remember I was in the waiting room when everyone was male, Caucasian and in a business suit, and I definitely stood out like a sore thumb. An Asian female totally underdressed in sneakers, basically off a plane from California. I did not let that intimidate me. The buyer took his first sip after he saw me prepare Pique and how easy it was, and the rest is history.

Were there any retail deals that didn't go as smoothly?

One of the biggest lessons I've learned very early on as an entrepreneur is the importance of saying no and scaling in the wrong way. Safeway wanted to take Pique on and wanted to put us in the powdered drink section. I know that the powdered drink set is shrinking every year, mainly because of the quality of ingredients. Consumers are just not walking that aisle as much. On top of that I knew and wanted Pique to be recognized as the premier, cold brewed, instant, on-the-go, tea. Where we belong is the tea and coffee aisle.

I immediately emailed the buyer and said, "Sorry, Pique can absolutely not be in the powdered drink set. This is not a set that our consumers will know where we are and the truth is that we will probably not do well there."

Most young companies would jump on the chance to launch in Safeway in their first year. But for us we want to take measured sustainable growth to building a profitable company. I don't have any regrets.

Related: 15 Ways to Command a Conversation Like a Boss

What's the biggest challenge in your industry and how are you able to overcome it?

The biggest challenge for a lot of us in the CPG (consumer packaged goods) world is marketing and breaking through the noise. Once your product is on shelves that is just the start. How do you educate people to become knowledgeable about your product? How do you get your product to stand out on shelves given all the competition next to you?

What we found is that the answer really lies with trials and sampling. Pique as a product speaks for itself. Once people try it, they're instantly hooked. We've done so many demos now that I can say that our conversion rate of these demos are like 80 to 90 percent. The key for us is really to get Pique in the hands of as many people as possible and that's been our main focus and will be our main focus in the next year or two as we scale the business.

Image credit: Courtesy Amanda Wee/Pique Tea



There's literally no where I go that I don't carry Pique in my handbag to give out. I make sure that every single person I engage with is educated about Pique, whether it's a stranger on a plane -- in fact that's the best place because they're stuck next to you -- or even at a cocktail party. It's a great conversation starter.

How do you explain the product to people if they can't actually see it?

We've gone through so many iterations. Then we found that people didn't actually understand what whole leaf tea means. They assume that everything in a tea bag is whole leaf tea. Now we just call it cold brew instant tea. I feel like that has worked. We've been testing that messaging and people are embracing it. We've seen that online mainly. Our Amazon business has actually grown, I want to say like 200 percent since we started.

Related: Meet the Entrepreneur Behind the Healthy, Clean Snack Loved by Googlers

Since you're married to your co-founder, how do you balance your work and home lives?

Actually, my 2018 intention is to create a boundary between work and personal life, because personal life is extremely important for me. So there are certain rules that we have, like no discussing business during dinnertime. Dinnertime is a very sacred time for us to come together and talk about things outside of work. That's 7 to 9 p.m., and with an early stage startup we work through the night. So from 9 to midnight that's work time but there's no speaking about work on Saturday and Friday night. I've broken the rule one too many times though.

Related:

The Company That Created a New Way to Drink Tea Is Truly a Product of Love

Meet the Entrepreneur Behind the Healthy, Clean Snack Loved by Googlers

Brooklyn Pizzeria Nails Viral Marketing With Its Safe, Edible Take on the Tide Pod Challenge



Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved



This article originally appeared on entrepreneur.com

When we read or hear about the federal shutdown in the media, we learn that it is due to the inability of our politicians to compromise, that all federal employees who are not considered essential are subject to a furlough, and that national parks and museums usually close. Yet, one may ask, how such shutdowns affect higher education. After all, most of higher education  including student aid  is supported directly or indirectly by the federal government.

To begin with, we need to remember that although no new federal dollars can be spent during a shutdown, money that has already been approved, such as for student-aid programs or research grants, is still available. The same can be said about spending mandated by law, such as the Pell Grant Program, money for federal direct student loans, and benefits paid through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Still, that does not mean that all would be well. The military service academies, such as West Point, would shut down because civilian faculty and staff, who constitute a significant portion of their personnel, would be sent home, affecting the quality of education of our future military leaders. Even things that do not seem to have a personal touch can be significantly disrupted, such as services that aid students applying for federal financial aid through the U.S. Department of Education Web site.

The same can be said about researchers applying for grants to federal institutions such as the National Science Foundation, or regarding major research projects that are time sensitive, such as launching space missions. Astronomers would lose invaluable hours of observation time at federally funded observatories, researchers at the National Institutes of Health would be unable to enroll patients in clinical trials, and federally-funded scientific expeditions would be cancelled. Government employees would be barred from attending conferences in their disciplines.

On the other hand, services such as the U.S. Geological Surveys on-duty seismologists in Golden, Colorado, who monitor earthquakes worldwide to produce real-time analysis and damage estimates, would remain open. Drug reviews by the Federal Drug Administration would continue because these undertakings are funded by fees from the pharmaceutical industry.

Some may think that committed researchers could continue to operate from home thanks to the Internet. Yet, by law, they are forbidden to work whatsoever, so they cannot even have work-related communications via email.

The net result of all this political mess would be the continuing loss of ground for the nations leadership position in areas that are critical to our national security, such as science and technology. Meanwhile, adversaries like China would see this as an opportunity to take over the relative supremacy that the U.S. has held in this area since the Sputnik era.

If you believe that this is an overstatement, look at the numbers. Since 2000, China has grown its spending on research and development by about 18 percent on average while ours grew only by four percent. Between 2010 and 2015 the share of investment by the U.S. government in that area has declined from 30 percent to 25 percent of the total countrys expenditures in research and development. And the gap will be growing in critical areas. China plans to invest 100 times more in artificial intelligence than the U.S. did in 2016 and now they have 200 of the fastest 500 worlds supercomputers, while the U.S. has fewer than 150. Those computers are essential in areas such as defense and homeland security.

Some will think that because of the furloughs and freezing in spending, the federal government would save money in a shutdown. Think again. After the 2013 government shutdown, Congress approved about $2 billion in retroactive compensation for the employees who were furloughed, erasing any payroll savings. After all, why should people pay for Congress inability to do its most basic job? Further, many expenditures for projects resumed at a higher pace in order to make up for the lost time.

On the other hand, that does not mean that there are not financial effects of a federal shutdown. According to a report issued by the White House, the 2013 crisis led to a loss of $2 billion in productivity.

Why we are risking the U.S. position as the only superpower left due to government shutdowns? The politics of ideology.

Since 1977 there have been 19 federal shutdowns. The six that took place during the Carter Administration were over federal funding for abortion. The longest one, a 21-day closure, took place during the Clinton Administration when the Republican-controlled Congress shut down the government over expenditures on funding for Medicare, education, public health, and the environment. The 2013 shutdown was over funding of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). The most recent was over immigration policy.

There was a time when the Congress, composed of elected officials paid by taxpayers, always tried to reach compromises in order to keep the country going. That is not true anymore. Further, they seem to enjoy the increasing polarization of the American society, their ability to ignore facts, and being able to get away with lying to our citizens. Now what we have is a system of government that is not only increasingly dysfunctional, but also underfunded and lacking of visionary leadership.

No wonder Congress has an approval rating of only 20 percent. But we should also see this state of affairs as a reflection on ourselves. How does a body that we elect and fund through our taxes misbehave at such levels? In a country in which less than 50 percent of the people eligible to vote exercise that right every two years, and where most people who vote do not look in depth for whom and what they are voting for, that is not surprising.

At the end of the day it is upon us to call into account the people who are supposed to run the country. That is what democracy is all about.

Dr. Aldemaro Romero Jr. is a writer and college professor with leadership experience in higher education. He can be contacted through his website at: http://www.aromerojr.net.2 hours ago

Are You Creditworthy? A Look at What Your Lender Sees (and Does Investing Affect Your Credit?)

If you're thinking about getting a loan for something like a house, a car or another type of loan, you might wonder what your lender sees when they take a look at your creditworthiness. You want to have every advantage at your disposal, particularly in the face of what's going on in the housing market right now.

Read ArticleBank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. The company's personal banking products and services include checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and financial and investment advice services; and commercial banking products and services comprise business deposit accounts, commercial credit cards, business loans and commercial mortgages, cash management solutions, foreign exchange, specialized banking programs, treasury and payment solutions, and risk management products for small business and commercial banking customers. It also offers investment and wealth advisory services; digital investing services; financial services and solutions; and investment management, and trust and custody services to institutional, retail, and high net worth investors. In addition, the company provides life insurance, accident and sickness insurance, and annuity products; creditor and travel insurance to bank customers; and reinsurance solutions. Further, it offers client's debt and equity capital-raising services, as well as loan origination and syndication, balance sheet management, and treasury management; strategic advice on mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, and recapitalizations, as well as valuation and fairness opinions; and trade finance, risk mitigation, and other operating services. Additionally, the company provides research and access to markets for institutional, corporate, and retail clients; trading solutions that include debt, foreign exchange, interest rate, credit, equity, securitization and commodities; new product development and origination services, as well as risk management advice and services to hedge against fluctuations; and funding and liquidity management services to its clients. It operates through approximately 1,400 bank branches and 4,800 automated banking machines in Canada and the United States. The company was founded in 1817 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.

Read MoreValeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. operates as a multinational, specialty pharmaceutical, and medical device company that develops, manufactures, and markets a range of pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter (OTC) products, and medical devices. The company operates through three segments: Bausch + Lomb/International, Branded Rx, and U.S. Diversified Products. The Bausch + Lomb/International segment provides pharmaceutical products, OTC products, and medical device products, primarily consist of Bausch + Lomb products, with a focus on the vision care, surgical, consumer, and ophthalmology Rx products in the United States; and pharmaceutical products, generic pharmaceutical products, OTC products, medical device products, and Bausch + Lomb products in Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. The Branded Rx segment sells gastrointestinal and dermatological products in the United States. The U.S. Diversified Products segment offers pharmaceutical products, OTC products, and medical device products in the areas of neurology and certain other therapeutic classes, including aesthetics. The company was founded in 1983 and is headquartered in Laval, Canada.

Read MoreVANCOUVERThe federal Conservatives are accusing Justin Trudeau of political interference after the prime minister responded to the acquittal of a white farmer in the death of a young Indigenous man by saying the criminal justice system has to do better.

Trudeau made the comments after a jury in Battleford, Sask., Friday found Gerald Stanley not guilty of second-degree murder in the 2016 death of 22-year-old Colten Boushie, a resident of the Red Pheasant First Nation.

I'm not going to comment on the process that led to this point today, but I am going to say we have come to this point as a country far too many times, Trudeau said in California, where he was wrapping up a four-day trip to the U.S. I know Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians alike know that we have to do better.

Trudeau's comments appeared to reflect concerns expressed by hundreds of Indigenous people who took to different sites across Canada on Saturday to protest what they described as injustice and a lack of fairness within the court system.

Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould and Indigenous Services Minister Jane Philpott, meanwhile, took to Twitter to express their support for Boushie's family and assert the need for improvements.

My thoughts are with the family of Colten Boushie tonight, Wilson-Raybould wrote Friday. I truly feel your pain and I hear all of your voices. As a country we can and must do better  I am committed to working every day to ensure justice for all Canadians.

The prime minister offered condolences to the family of Colten Boushie, after Gerald Stanley was acquitted Friday in the young Indigenous mans 2016 shooting death. Justin Trudeau said Saturday that Canadians have to do better. (The Canadian Press)

Many concerns have been raised about discrimination toward Indigenous People in the criminal justice system; retired Supreme Court judge Frank Iacobucci, for example, raised flags about a lack of Indigenous representation on juries in Ontario in 2013.

Iacobucci's probe was launched after an inquest into the 2007 drowning death of a high school student in Thunder Bay, Ont., was stopped because of a lack of Indigenous people on the jury.

But federal Conservatives, some of whom also expressed their condolences to Boushie's family, nonetheless blasted Trudeau and his ministers for weighing in on a specific case.

The tragic death and pain for the family of (Colten Boushie) is unimaginable, and our thoughts are with his community, Conservative Indigenous affairs critic Cathy McLeod wrote on Twitter.

However, she added, we need to let the many steps of an independent judicial process unfold without political interference.

Conservative deputy leader Lisa Raitt and finance critic Rob Nicholson also criticized Trudeau and Wilson-Raybould, with Raitt questioning whether the prime minister and justice minister were implying that the jury arrived at the wrong verdict.

Concerns have also been raised by lawyers following federal Wilson-Raybould's comments on the acquittal of a white farmer charged in the death of an Indigenous man in Saskatchewan.

Edmonton-based criminal lawyer Tom Engel said when politicians, especially the justice minister, appear to criticize verdicts, the public may believe that future decisions by the courts are influenced by the remarks.

He said if the case is appealed, he doesn't believe the politicians comments would colour the decisions made by the appeal courts or Supreme Court of Canada.

The problem, he said, is that the public may perceive that there is an influence.

You can't have even that kind of appearance in our justice system, he said.

Michael Lacy, a partner in the criminal law group Brauti Thorning Zibarras LLP in Toronto, also said politicians have no business at all in commenting on the outcome of a trial.

It undermines the independence of the judicial branch, he said in an email.

Saying anything that amounts to commenting on the correctness of the verdict, to improve your public image or ensure an appropriate approval rating, should be criticized in Canada, Lacy said, adding public figures should stick to offering sympathies over the tragic loss of life.

Rallies were held across the country Saturday to show support for, and solidarity with, the Boushie family.

The trial heard that Boushie was shot in the head while he was sitting in an SUV that had been driven onto Stanley's farm near Biggar, Sask. Stanley testified that he was trying to scare off Boushie and the others in the vehicle. He said the fatal shot occurred when he reached into the SUV to grab the keys out of the ignition and his gun just went off.

The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations and Boushie's family have raised concerns about the trial because there were no visibly Indigenous jurors selected.

Perry Bellegarde, national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, said Saturday that the courts are rife with systemic racism and the justice system is in need of an overhaul.

Engel said the case does raise questions about the diversity of a jury and how members are selected. He said politicians could use this as an opportunity to look at how legislative changes can improve those processes, while steering clear of discussing the verdict.

The use of peremptory challenges to eliminate certain people from juries is a procedure that needs to be reconsidered, he said, adding it's understandable that people are questioning the apparent whiteness of the jury in this case.

You can't go from that fact to say the verdict was wrong. Nobody knows that, Engel said. I think the perception that's been created here is just awful in terms of the integrity of that trial and whether racism played a part.Premier Kathleen Wynne is heading back to campus  including a stop at her alma mater, Queens University  as part of a provincial post-secondary tour this week.

Wynne will be at Laurentian University in Sudbury on Monday and will visit College Boreal and Cambrian College later in the day, where shes to meet with faculty and students and talk about how to create a fairer, better and greener province with more opportunity for everyone.

While Wynne is there to tout the provinces free tuition  rebates that are equal to or, in some cases, greater than the cost of their fees, she may also get an earful from college students, who have only recently begun their second semester after their fall classes were cancelled for five weeks during the provinces longest strike by their faculty.

Some 12,000 instructors were legislated back to work in November, and colleges scrambled to shorten winter holidays, extend the semester and condense course curriculums to make up the time.

Wynne is also making stops in Kingston, Cambridge, Windsor and the Toronto area.

Students have an important voice in the conversations about fairness in our province, the premier said in a written release.

From providing free tuition to increasing the minimum wage, were acting now to make sure our young people will have the same opportunities to get ahead in Ontario as their parents did. We know we have more work to do, not just on our campuses, but in our communities.

Read more about:OTTAWAThe grieving relatives of a First Nations man whose accused killer was acquitted by a Saskatchewan jury are meeting with federal ministers to take what they call a first step in the long road to reforming Canadas justice system.

On Friday, a jury found Gerald Stanley, 56, not guilty of second-degree murder in the 2016 shooting death of Colten Boushie, 22, a member of the Red Pheasant First Nation.

Boushies cousin, Jade Tootoosis, said she and her family members are focused on building relationships with people in Ottawa who have the power to change the way Indigenous people are treated in Canadas justice system.

Read more:

Not guilty verdict in shooting death of Colten Boushie absolutely perverse

Opinion | Shree Paradkar: Our reaction to injustice for Colten Boushie is a reflection of our soul as individuals and Canadians

Were going to fight back  Colten Boushies mother delivers emotional message

Were not in a rush because we want things done right, Tootoosis said shortly after sitting down Monday with Indigenous Affairs Minister Carolyn Bennett.

We have little to no faith in the justice system. Were here to talk about that.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said during question period that while much needs to be done to fix the way First Nations people are treated within Canadas criminal justice system, it would be completely inappropriate to comment on the specifics of the verdict.

Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Chief Bobby Cameron says Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould will meet with Colten Boushies family. Gerald Stanley was found not guilty of second-degree murder in Boushies death. (The Canadian Press)

That prompted shouts from the opposition benches, members of which had assailed Trudeau and his Indigenous justice minister over the weekend for their strong reactions on social media in the wake of the verdict.

We are committed to broad-based reform to address these issues, Trudeau said.

As a country, we must and we can do better  an echo of a tweet Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould sent after the verdict was delivered.

Asked Monday whether she meant to suggest the acquittal was unjust, Wilson-Raybould said she was speaking in general about a justice system that has been part of a colonial reality for Indigenous Peoples for the past 150 years.

I turned on the television like many people did and I was confronted with the family, with other Canadians across the country who were displaying anguish, emotion, concerns, and I felt compassion and wanted to acknowledge that compassion, she said.

She also said the government is taking a close look at the jury selection process and so-called peremptory challenges, which allow lawyers to reject jury candidates without justification.

The justice minister is expected to meet with Boushies family Tuesday, along with Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale.

Sen. Murray Sinclair posted a poem online saying he grieves for First Nations youth who now see no hope, and says Indigenous people like himself have been grieving for so long it has become part of their DNA.

I grieve for a family that has not yet seen justice from the moment a handgunned farmer (why does a farmer need such a gun?) pulled the trigger and killed their son, Sinclair wrote.

Kevin Seesequasis, a Cree Nation councillor in Saskatchewan, said both Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents are reeling from what he describes as a horrible failure of the criminal justice system.

Colten Boushie was not just the victim of a senseless murder, Seesequasis said.

If we cannot find some way toward real change for Indigenous people in the criminal justice system, Colten Boushie will also be the victim of a criminal justice system that was stacked against him from the start and a government indifferent to that reality.

Indigenous faculty members and allies sent an open letter to heads of universities across Canada describing the Stanley verdict as yet another iteration of the systemic violence that Indigenous peoples in this country have faced for over 150 years.

The letter, signed by more than 20 faculty members from schools as far afield as Australia and New Zealand, calls for universities to support anti-oppressive education and enhance institutional accountability toward First Nations communities.

Read more about:MONTREALAn inquiry that has been examining the relations between Indigenous people in Quebec and the public service has begun two weeks of hearings in Montreal.

Sedalia Fazio, a Mohawk elder who presided over the opening prayer, says the timing of the hearings is difficult given the verdict in the death of Colten Boushie in Saskatchewan.

A jury deliberated 13 hours before finding a white farmer, Gerald Stanley, not guilty last Friday of second-degree murder in Boushies slaying.

Read more:

Colten Boushies family to meet federal ministers in the wake of Stanley acquittal

Opinion | Shree Paradkar: Our reaction to injustice for Colten Boushie is a reflection of our soul as individuals and Canadians

Were going to fight back  Colten Boushies mother delivers emotional message

Fazio says the feeling of injustice in the 2016 death of Boushie, a resident of the Red Pheasant First Nation, brought back memories of her own sons experience at the hands of law enforcement.

She alleges her son was beaten by Montreal police in a shoplifting incident just after the Oka Crisis in 1990 when he was 13 years old and that nothing was done.

Last week, the province announced the commission, chaired by retired Quebec Superior Court justice Jacques Viens, will see its mandate extended by 10 months.

A final report is now due to the provincial government in September 2019.

The inquiry, announced in December 2016, was mandated to look into the way Indigenous peoples are treated by the police, the provinces youth protection agency, the public health department as well as the justice and correctional systems.

More than a hundred people gathered on Parliament Hill Saturday to protest Gerald Stanleys acquittal in the death of Colten Boushie. One protester says there needs to be a fundamental change in the way Indigenous people are viewed. (The Canadian Press)

Read more about:SASKATOONSaskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says he is open to discussions about having more Indigenous representation on juries.

His comments come in the wake of a jury with no visibly Indigenous members finding a Saskatchewan farmer not guilty after he shot a young Indigenous man in the head.

Gerald Stanley said he accidentally killed 22-year-old Colten Boushie while trying to scare a group of young people off his property in August 2016.

Moe says the jurys verdict must be respected and two families will never be the same after the shooting.

But he says policy-makers, including the province and the federal government, should still talk about how to make the justice system better for all.

Saskatchewans justice minister says the Crown has yet to determine whether it will appeal the verdict.

Read more:

Trudeau promises to fix the system after murder trial in death of Indigenous man ends in acquittal

Colten Boushies family meets federal minister in wake of Stanley acquittal

Opinion | Colten Boushie verdict more proof legal system plagued by systemic racismOTTAWA The family of a slain young Cree man met with Trudeau government ministers on Monday and afterward issued a quiet but forceful call for change, saying reforms to jury-selection rules in the wake of his killers acquittal are one quick fix.

Hours later, it appeared their voices and the voices of hundreds of supporters had been heard at the highest level.

We have a problem. We have much we need to do together to fix the system in the spirit of reconciliation. Thats exactly what were going to be doing, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told the House of Commons.

After weekend demonstrations of outrage in the face of a jurys decision to acquit Saskatchewan farmer Gerald Stanley in the 2016 death of 22-year-old Colten Boushie, Trudeau said changes are afoot.

Trudeau extended sympathy to the young mans family as he did Friday on Twitter and defended his comments, saying it would be completely inappropriate to comment on the specifics of this case.

But, he said, we understand that there are systemic issues in our criminal justice system that we must address. We are committed to broad-based reform to address these issues.

As a country, we must and we can do better.

In response to NDP demands for concrete steps to address the issue, Trudeau agreed that the overrepresentation of Indigenous persons in Canadas prisons and their underrepresentation on juries and in jury-selection pools is a significant problem and said his government would address it.

When the NDP asked if the Liberals would target jury-selection rules in the Criminal Code, which now allow an accuseds legal team to reject a potential juror with no explanation  this is called a peremptory challenge  the justice minister said this will be included in changes under consideration in broader-based reform of criminal justice.

Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould, who with Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale, will meet with Colten Boushies family Tuesday, promised she will engage with the Commons justice committee on proposed reforms.

The slain youths mother, Debbie Baptiste, cousin Jade Tootoosis and uncle Alvin Baptiste, along with family lawyer Chris Murphy, met Monday morning with Carolyn Bennett and Jane Philpott, the cabinet ministers responsible for the federal governments dealings with Indigenous people.

Boushies family said they did not seek an appeal of the jurys acquittal of Gerald Stanley on Friday, a decision that Murphy said is up to the attorney general of Saskatchewan.

But, they said, they came to build relationships with people who can make a difference.

Its Monday, and the verdict went out on Friday, so we have little to no faith in the justice system and were here to talk about that and figure out ways to address that, Tootoosis said.

Murphy said reforms must be made to Canadas long-standing jury-selection process.

Read more:

Saskatchewan premier says government should discuss Indigenous jury representation

Conservatives accuse Trudeau of political interference for comments on Stanley acquittal

Opinion | Colten Boushie verdict more proof legal system plagued by systemic racism

A 2013 review of Ontarios system recommended changes. It noted that, depending on the type of crime being tried, both the Crown and defence are given between four and 20 peremptory challenges, meaning that a corresponding number of prospective jurors can be asked to stand aside without counsel being obliged to provide a reason.

Thats an issue that is a quick legislative fix, Murphy said.

He said an accused person and a potential juror summoned for jury-pool selection literally eyeball each other for three seconds before a juror can be dismissed.

If youre an Indigenous person watching this process, what are you to think? What is this decision based on? he asked. Of course, everybody wants an impartial jury. But there are a lot better ways to determine partiality or bias than looking at a persons skin.

So lets change it. Its an easy fix.

Yes! interjected Debbie Baptiste at a news conference on Parliament Hill.

Asked if jury reform is the Boushie familys top priority, Tootoosis said it is one of the things the family wants changed.

Boushies mother, when asked what justice for her son would look like, said it would be change into the justice system. It would also be a change that the government just talks about racial issues, and that, somehow, Canada could come together, all its people could come together, and realize were all human being(s).

She spoke of the need to break those barriers where we no longer go with the dark skin, the white skin.

Were not in a rush, because we want things done right and in a good way, said Tootoosis, as Boushies mother again spoke up, saying, Yes!

As a family, we want to be a part of this process, so that these injustices are addressed, and that we feel justice for our brother, for our son, for our nephew.

Asked what difference having an Indigneous person on the jury would have made to the family, and to the outcome of the trial, Tootoosis spoke of the justice that we were denied through this process.

It may have (changed the outcome), but well never know, she said.

Philpott, the minister of Indigenous services, said Mondays meeting was an opportunity for the ministers to express our concern and empathy for them as a family and what theyve gone through.

Bennett, the minister of Crown-Indigenous relations and northern affairs, said the concerns are not only centred on the verdict, but the way this family was made to feel through the process.

She said the family was made to feel as though they were the cause (of the incident), not the victims.

They want concrete measures to make sure this doesnt happen to other families, Bennett said.

Theres been lots of reports in the past about jury selection, about the presence of Indigenous people on juries, Bennett said.

Asked whether their statements could prejudice any further legal proceedings, Bennett said her concerns about justice for Indigenous peoples have been voiced before, notably in the hearings around the inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women.

With files from Bruce Campion-Smith

Read more about:One of Riversides sweetest spots is making a big move westward.

On Valentines Day, Mary Macleods Shortbread, which has called 639 Queen St. E., just west of Broadview Avenue, home for two decades, will be closing its doors in Torontos east end.

The 36-year-old cookie emporium is moving to a much larger bakery and warehouse space at 80 Galaxy Blvd., near Pearson International Airport.

The decision to relocate the operation was made early last year, Sharon Macleod, the companys chief cookie officer, said during a recent interview.

Since 2010, weve been expanding our business. Our current space was not big enough. We actually had to rent storage in the area, she explained.

Now were getting back under one roof. Well also have a loading dock.

Macleod said back in 1997 when the business first moved to Riverside from the Yonge-Eglinton area, the neighbourhood was a much different place. It has changed drastically since and they felt the time was right to move on.

With the move also comes the decision to close the retail storefront and focus on online sales. Mary Macleods Shortbread goods will continue to be available at a number of retail stores.

And while the move and new direction are exciting, Macleod said shell dearly miss the Riverside neighbourhood.

Its very sad for us. Its kind of bittersweet, she said, pointing to the companys founder, Mary Macleod, who died in September 2016 and lived at 639 Queen St. E. for several years.

The Macleod family will still continue to own the building in Riverside, but will be leasing the space to a new tenant.

Read more about:Severe depression and other mental health challenges robbed Roberta Taylors creativity and zest for life.

But free creative writing workshops offered to people from some of the citys most marginalized communities have helped the Toronto woman find her voice.

It has changed my life, says Taylor, 57, who moved into her own apartment in January after living in supportive housing for seven years.

It has made me much more mentally stable, she says. And it has helped me stand up and reclaim my creativity.

Founded in 2012 by Susan Turk Mozer, the Toronto Writers Collective has trained more than 80 volunteer facilitators who run workshops for people from Indigenous and LGBTQ communities, the homeless, youth at risk, abused women, those with mental illness and people in conflict with the law.

By writing and sharing stories in a safe and supportive environment, people heal themselves, says the collectives part-time program manager Jesse Cohoon.

As the only paid staff member in the largely voluntary-run program, Cohoon co-ordinates more than a dozen weekly workshops of between eight and 12 participants in shelters, community centres and libraries across the city.

It is really a calling and a passion for everyone involved, he notes.

New research being released next weekend quantifies the impact of the workshops and shows the benefits for writers and facilitators, says Ryerson University Associate Professor Kelly McShane, a clinical psychologist and credentialed evaluator.

We saw significant changes across the 10-week program for both groups, says McShane, who conducted the research with funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. It provides convincing evidence of the magic of the writing workshops.

She believes it is the first Canadian study to measure the benefits of a no-barrier, community-based creative writing program for people from marginalized groups.

Of 46 participants surveyed in the research, 30 are living with addiction or in recovery from addiction, 26 have mental health challenges, 19 are survivors of violence, 11 are newcomers, three are caregivers and two are youth.

Nine of the 15 facilitators interviewed for the study began as workshop participants and enjoyed the experience so much, they took training to become leaders.

This is an important statistic because it shows people are passionate about the work and are feeling a sense of pride and a sense of confidence to be interested and willing to become facilitators, McShane says.

When asked to rate how much they had changed as a result of the program, writers reported major improvements in their feelings of hope, well-being, resilience, empowerment and connectedness. They also noted positive changes in their self expression, creativity and writing skills, McShane says.

McShane has obtained matching federal funds to continue the research until June and hopes her findings help the collective secure more stable funding so the program can expand beyond Toronto into other GTA communities and eventually across Canada.

We know people want an evidence-based approach to funding, adds McShane, who will be presenting her interim findings at the Michaelle Jean Foundations Power of the Arts Conference in Montreal on Saturday.

At a recent workshop at Progress Place, a downtown community hub for people living with mental illness, the writing begins with a participant reading a poem as a prompt.

The reading elicits tales of recovery, a dogs life, travel and love.

Taylor reads what she has written to appreciative comments from the group that highlight her poems sense of longing and subtle humour.

The beauty of the process is that everyone, even the facilitator, writes and is invited to read what they have written to the group, notes facilitator Aysha Teja, 33.

Group members are invited to comment, but permitted to offer only observations about what is strong or memorable about the piece. The effect creates a space of caring and support that is reflected on the faces of the writers, Teja notes.

When you see them smile when youve said something about their piece, you see it very visibly . . . the joy that comes from being seen, she says.

As much as its about the writing, its much more than that. Its about being seen and affirmed.

Teja, who heard about the workshops online, began facilitating at Progress Place last fall as part of McShanes research. She is excited by how the writers have really gelled as a group and have continued to meet beyond the initial 10-weeks, as have many other workshops.

They are like a little family that supports each other. They are gentle with each other. They treat each other with such care and respect, she says.

The groups co-facilitator Ken Rosser, 59, who has experienced mental health challenges himself, says the workshops have provided important feedback for his writing.

Diagnosed as an adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder, a developmental disability characterized by challenges with social and communication skills, Rosser says facilitating has helped him overcome depression and feelings of low self-worth.

Writing with others has made me more confident, he says. It has given me a purpose.

Roberta Taylor's poem

I am living in this doggy life

drowning in woes and strife.

And yet I am happy with my bowl of stew

that I share with you.

I am dying in this doggy life.

I have failed and flourished and failed some more

Just to grow wiser, older, more obsolete

Like black and white TVs

or alarm clocks not attached to cellphones.

. . .

From a distance, I fear and love dogs

And from a distance, I fear and love life.

Maybe I will have a dog someday

And learn to play

And have doggy dreams.

But for now I dont have pets. Not even a Chia.

I wish I could bay at the moon

Because this doggy life ends all too soon.

Read more about:What responsibility did those working with Harvey Weinstein have to warn women of his alleged sexual predation? That question is central to a motion being debated in a Toronto courtroom this week.

A lawsuit alleges that Barbara Schneeweiss was the assistant to the disgraced producer  who faces a wave of accusations and investigations over alleged sexual misconduct and assaults dating back to the 1970s. In Toronto, allegations come from a woman identified only as Jane Doe, and a lawsuit that names Schneeweiss along with Weinstein.

Doe alleges that Schneeweiss knew Weinstein was a sexual predator, and in 2000, lured her into a hotel room with him anyway. Doe says that Schneeweiss facilitated two incidents of sexual assault. The allegations have not been proven in court.

Read more:

Toronto actress sues Weinstein for two alleged sexual assaults

Harvey Weinstein sued by New York attorney general over sexual harassment allegations

Harvey Weinsteins ex-assistant claims she had to clean up his used condoms and more

Schneeweiss and her lawyer, Jonathan Rosenstein, filed a notice of motion in response, saying parts of Does argument are frivolous, vexatious and irrelevant, and other parts dont have enough detail behind them, according to a notice of motion filed in response. The claims against her, they argue, are based on an alleged duty to have warned Doe of risk she was reportedly facing meeting Weinstein alone.

Doe and her lawyers filed a factum in response, in which they say Schneeweiss is trying to evade a trial on the merits by filing the motion to amend and strike the claim. And until the issue is solved, the lawsuit wont proceed for Weinstein. Weinstein has denied allegations of non-consensual sex.

So who is Schneeweiss?

Though neither Schneeweiss nor Rosenstein responded to a request for comment, a history detailed in the lawsuit says Schneeweiss was a Miramax employee from 1996 to 2005, before moving to the Weinstein Company. Shes also listed as an executive producer of Project Runway, a competitive fashion design show. At the time of the alleged assaults, the lawsuit says Schneeweiss held herself out to Doe as Weinsteins assistant.

The lawsuit claims that Schneeweiss was an active and knowing facilitator of Weinsteins sexual assaults against Doe or, in the alternative, recklessly facilitated the assaults with callous indifference  lending an air of legitimacy to meetings that were really intended to facilitate sexual harassment and sexual assaults.

Schneeweiss and her lawyer are asking for parts of the lawsuit to be struck entirely, and others to be laid out in detail. What constitutes a sexual predator, exactly? And if Schneeweiss knew what was allegedly occurring, where did that knowledge come from?

The incidents in the lawsuit allegedly occurred when Doe was working on her first film. She received a call from Schneeweiss, the lawsuit says, who identified herself as Barbara. She asked Doe to meet her and Weinstein for breakfast at the Sutton Place Hotel.

Schneeweiss met her near the restaurant, introduced herself, and explained that Weinstein was currently on a call and could not come downstairs, the lawsuit continues. She indicated that Weinstein had a suite with a boardroom and, accordingly, the meeting had to be moved upstairs.

Doe alleges that she spoke with Weinstein about her career and experience for several minutes while Schneeweiss took notes. At that point, Doe says, he dismissed Schneeweiss from the room, and the first alleged assault occurred. Doe says Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her, until she broke free, and escaped from the bedroom. She says she then left the hotel.

When Doe returned to the hotel with her agent to confront Weinstein, according to the lawsuit, Schneeweiss persuaded her into meeting with Weinstein to speak privately. Schneeweiss encouraged Doe to believe it would be safe for her to return to the room to facilitate this private apology. It was not safe, and Schneeweiss knew it was not safe, the lawsuit says.

At this point, Doe alleges, a second assault occurred in which Weinstein threw his weight onto her and tried to stick his tongue down her throat.

Doe is seeking $1 million from Schneeweiss for intentional infliction of mental injury, negligent misrepresentation and negligent infliction of nervous shock, as well as $1 million in aggravated punitive damages.

Schneeweiss and her counsel are asking for particulars: how she would have known about Weinsteins alleged harassment and assaults? From other people? From personal experience?

When they say she encouraged Doe to return to the hotel room, what were the particulars of that encouragement? When they say she knew it wasnt safe to return, how was she to know?

The sources and extent of Ms. Schneeweisss knowledge regarding Mr. Weinsteins predatory sexual conduct are squarely within her own knowledge, Does lawyers responded in their factum. Ms. Schneeweiss was present.

Schneeweiss is calling part of the claim, which references her 20-year employment at companies where Weinstein directed, and a claim about an established practice of assistants of Weinstein, frivolous, vexatious and irrelevant. Does lawyers disagree, as listed in the responding factum.

As for claims that she negligently misrepresented the meeting, negligently inflicted nervous shock, and intentionally inflicted mental injury, Schneeweiss and her counsel are asking a judge to bar those claims under the Limitations Act, saying they were discovered over two years ago.

Does lawyers say the Act was amended and broadened to ensure sexual assault claimants can bring their cases to court.

The motion goes to court this week.A Brampton judge has blasted a Mississauga-based translations company for its repeated failure to pay contract workers and what she described as an intentional, habitual and high-handed course of conduct that is clearly aimed at taking advantage of a vulnerable sector of society for commercial gain.

In a judgment against Able Translations, which has enjoyed contracts with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board and University Health Network among others, judge Laura Oliver said the company aggressively targets newly trained translators who are new to Canada and looking to start a new life in a new country.

Thereafter, the defendant seems to then engage in a sort of vicious cycle in terms of continuing to offer work to these translators as an incentive to wait for payment, says the December judgment in the small claims case. As well, translators are made to feel if they do not accept the work they will have to wait longer to get paid.

In an emailed statement to the Star, a spokesperson for Able said the company wasnt notified of the small claims case and was therefore unable to defend itself. Able said it will challenge the decision.

The Star first wrote about Able Translations alleged payment issues in 2015, and then again in 2017. Since last year, there have been more than 25 small claims cases initiated against Able at one GTA courthouse.

In its statement, the spokesperson said Able processes more than 40,000 interpreting appointments and that the claims made since 2017 account for less than 0.07 per cent of the companys annual volume in one business unit.

Disputes arise from time to time and for a number of reasons including, improper billing or record keeping, late submission of invoices, lateness, no-shows, non-compliance with standards of practice and ethical principles and other performance issues. In all circumstances, Able works with its providers to resolve all disputes.

The statement, which did not provide a name for attribution, added that the company had 8,000 providers in our roster and enjoy a positive, professional working relationship with them, who continue to provide services to our clients.

Mohammad Nazarwal, whose case was the subject of Olivers recent decision, was owed $1,686 stemming from work completed in 2014  usually for the WSIB, hospitals, or home care patients, he says.

While he received payment for some of his services, he says he repeatedly contacted Able over email or drove 45 minutes from his home to Mississauga to seek outstanding wages in person.

He says he was repeatedly told no one was available to talk to him or the company was having some temporary problems processing payment.

My family has been affected because I was out of the home to earn some bread for them, but then they didnt get anything, said Nazarwal, who was a doctor in his native Afghanistan with his wife and five children before coming to Canada as a refugee in 2011.

We all lost the trust in the system.

In its statement, Able said Nazarwals allegations were untrue, adding that he had worked for them since 2012 and to suggest he was a new immigrant was inaccurate.

Regarding the case, in which Nazarwal was represented by Flemingdon Community Legal Services, Able said the Stars email was the first notification that we had of this claim.

Upon investigation, our legal team has discovered that Mr. Nazarwal failed to serve us properly and as such the company had no opportunity to defend itself. Any comments made by the judge would have been based on Mr. Nazarwal submission only. Able intends to challenge the decision on Mr. Nazarwals matter immediately.

Nazarwals legal representative told the Star she has a receipt showing her plaintiffs claim was delivered to the address listed on Ables corporate profile and received by an official of the company. Able has another address listed on its website, called World Headquarters, which was not served.

A public profile of the company compiled by Industry Canada lists several large private insurance companies as Able clients and says the firm has total sales of between $1 million and $4,999,999 annually.

In a statement to the Star, the WSIB said it had a contract with Able Translations that expired in 2018 and that it expects all of our vendors to conduct business in an ethical manner, which includes properly paying their employees.

University Health Network said Able had provided services to its hospitals and that its expectation is that Able pays the people it contracts to provide those services and we have made that clear to Able.

In recent months UHN has been contacted by legal clinics representing various interpreters in garnishment proceedings against Able. UHN co-operated fully with counsel representing the interpreters in the proceedings. However, before any formal action was required by UHN, we were advised by counsel that the legal proceedings were no longer being pursued, the health network said in a statement.

In response to the Stars questions, Able said the institutions mentioned above pay for our services in a timely manner, however, there are some other major institutions that have delayed payment to us, some in excess of a year.

Ables translators are considered independent contractors, a category that has no protection under the Employment Standards Act  which only covers employees. As a result, Ables translators must pay out of their own pocket to launch small claims cases rather than filing wage theft complaints to the Ministry of Labour.

When the Star first wrote about the company in 2015, 59 of the 68 ministry claims launched against the company had been withdrawn or denied because Able translators were not employees. Over the past year, a further 18 employment standards claims were made by Able translators, of which 10 were denied for the same reason. Six are being processed or investigated, and two were withdrawn.

Updates to Ontario employment law introduced through Bill 148 last year mean that the onus now rests with employers to prove workers are truly independent contractors should a dispute over status arise.

But advocacy groups including the South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario, the Workers Action Centre, and Parkdale Community Legal Services (which has represented 10 translators in cases against Able) have called for the definition of an employee to be expanded so that low-wage, vulnerable contractors have basic protection, too.

A recommendation from two government-appointed special advisers to give ESA protection to so-called dependent contractors  those who are in a position of economic dependence upon their employer  was not adopted in Bill 148.

Through his small claims case, Nazarwal was awarded his unpaid wages as well as $5,000 in punitive damages and $2,500 in general damages for violations of the human rights code.

I am satisfied that the defendant sought out the plaintiff because of his vulnerable position in society, the judge said.

This is one of many actions before this court against Able Translations for their failure to pay contract translators, she added.

I have listened very carefully to the evidence of the plaintiff, who it appears has been treated the same as others who have been hired by Able Translations and not been paid.Chris Stockwell, a maverick Progressive Conservative MPP who became one of the most effective Speakers in Queens Park history, has died. He was 60.

Stockwell had been battling cancer.

Born into a political family in Etobicoke  his father, Bill, was a municipal councillor  Stockwell served on local council and Metro council before jumping into the provincial arena in 1990.

Famously outspoken and quick-witted, Stockwells first five years at Queens Park were spent in opposition, where he was a thorn in the side of then premier Bob Raes NDP government.

When Mike Harris led the Tories to a landslide victory in 1995, it was expected he would be chosen for cabinet.

But Harris passed him over, which resulted in a bitterly disappointed Stockwell eventually seeking the job of Speaker of the legislative assembly, where he served as a fair-minded referee of parliamentary debates.

While the premier opposed him getting that post, he enjoyed support from dissident Tory MPPs as well as opposition Liberals and New Democrats.

Stockwell proved himself to be a fiercely independent Speaker, often ruling against the Conservatives on key procedural decisions by putting legislative tradition above partisanship.

Even so, he remained a popular figure with politicians throughout Ontario.

Progressive Conservative MPP Lisa MacLeod tweeted her condolences on Sunday night: He was a superb public servant, Speaker of the assembly and a loyal Progressive Conservative. He was particularly kind to me as a friend and supporter. I will always remember him and forever miss him.

Former PC leader Tim Hudak called Stockwell a great Speaker who couldnt be fooled because he had broken every rule in the book many times himself, while interim leader Vic Fedeli said that he was very saddened to hear about Stockwells passing.

Toronto councilor Josh Matlow also paid tribute to the former MPP on Sunday night, adding, whether we agreed, or disagreed, on a public policy issue, (Stockwell) was a skilled legislator, independent thinker and a very memorable personality.

Prior to the 1999 election, Harris reduced the number of MPPs at Queens Park from 130 to 103, which led to many incumbents squaring off against their own caucus colleagues in a high-stakes game of musical chairs.

For Stockwell, it meant facing Tory MPP Doug Ford Sr.  father of Doug Jr. and Rob of later city hall notoriety  in the new riding of Etobicoke Centre.

Doug and Rob were very vocal guys. They wanted things their way. They werent getting their way because Id already stacked the riding association, he recalled to the Stars David Rider in 2014.

Stockwell trounced Doug Sr. for the nomination, which left the elder Ford with no seat to run in for the 1999 campaign. He died in 2006.

I remember seeing their faces  they were pissed. Doug Sr. never spoke to me again, he remembered.

Once back at Queens Park, Harris finally appointed the popular Etobicoke MPP to cabinet, making him labour minister, a tricky portfolio for a right-leaning government that sparred with unions.

He was then government house leader and finally energy minister.

In 2002, Stockwell mounted a spirited, but underfunded campaign for the Tory leadership, finishing fifth and last in the contest to succeed Harris.

Incoming premier Ernie Eves kept him in cabinet, but Stockwell stepped down in 2003 amid controversy surrounding travel expenses and did not seek re-election that year.

His departure from Queens Park robbed the legislature of one its most colourful characters.

But, as a former Speaker, his official portrait hangs on the first floor of the main legislative building.

A doting father, he made sure in to include a small picture of his two children, who are now adults, in the massive oil painting.PHOENIXFour survivors of a deadly tour helicopter crash onto the jagged rocks of the Grand Canyon were being treated at a Nevada hospital Sunday while crews tackled difficult terrain in a remote area to try to recover the bodies of three other people.

Six passengers and a pilot were on board the Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters chopper when it crashed under unknown circumstances Saturday evening on the Hualapai Nations land near Quartermaster Canyon, by the Grand Canyons West Rim. A witness said he saw flames and black smoke spewing from the crash site, heard explosions and saw victims who were bleeding and badly burned.

Its just horrible, witness Teddy Fujimoto said. And those victims  she was so badly burned. Its unimaginable, the pain.

Windy conditions, darkness and the rugged terrain made it difficult to reach the helicopters wreckage, Hualapai Nation Police Chief Francis Bradley said. Rescue crews had to fly in, walk to the crash site and use night-vision goggles to find their way around, he said.

The survivors were airlifted to a Las Vegas hospital by around 2 a.m. Sunday, Bradley said. The identities and nationalities of the dead and injured werent immediately released.

National Transportation Safety Board officials were expected at the crash scene by Sunday afternoon to begin investigating what caused the chopper to go down, Bradley said. The Federal Aviation Administration also will be investigating the crash of the Eurocopter EC130, spokesperson Allen Kenitzer said.

National Weather Service meteorologists in Flagstaff and Phoenix said wind were blowing an estimated 16 km/h with gusts of 32 km/h around the time of the crash.

Fujimoto, a Las Vegas photographer who was doing a wedding shoot at the time of the crash, said he suddenly saw people running toward the edge of a gulch. He said he heard gasps and went to check out the commotion coming from about 180 metres below.

In the gulch, there was a helicopter, flames, smoke, he said. It was horrible.

He said thats when two or three small explosions went off in the wreckage and people werent sure what to do. He said some other pilots flying helicopters in the area at the time of the crash descended into the gulch and delivered water and first aid supplies.

Fujimoto said he saw two badly injured women and one of them was yelling out a mans name. He said one of them was pretty much burned all over.

Her hands were bloody and body was just more burned, Fujimoto said.

The other woman, he said, was covered in blood and was bleeding from her head or neck.

Fujimoto said he has taken helicopter rides for photo shoots for the past few years and generally felt safe. He said the crash aftermath is the worst thing hes ever witnessed.

The tour company released a statement Sunday, promising full co-operation with crash investigators and offering sympathy.

It is with extreme sadness we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families involved in this accident, Papillon Group CEO Brenda Halvorson said. Our top priority is the care and needs of our passengers and our staff.

The Nevada-based companys website says it flies roughly 600,000 passengers a year around the Grand Canyon and on other tours. It notes that it abides by flight safety rules and regulations that substantially exceed the regulations required by the Federal Aviation Administration.

In August 2001, a Grand Canyon tour helicopter operated by Papillon crashed and burned near Meaview, Ariz. The pilot and five passengers died. An NTSB report issued in 2004 blamed the pilots decision to descend too fast and too close to the scenic Grand Wash Cliffs.

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Three dead after helicopter crashes into California homeHarvey Weinstein was sued by New York officials for creating a hostile work environment at the Weinstein Co. that allegedly featured pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation and discrimination.

New York Attorney General Eric Schneidermans lawsuit comes as Weinstein, 65, is seeking to sell his troubled studio to Maria Contreras-Sweet, a former Obama administration official, in a $500-million (U.S.) bid backed by billionaire Ron Burkle. The suit may create a major obstacle for the deal.

Weinstein, who faces a wave of sexual-assault claims stretching back to the 1970s, was ousted from his studio in October 2017 after the New York Times and the New Yorker Magazine published accounts in which women accused him of sexual harassment and rape. He has denied any non-consensual sexual activity.

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A string of actresses have come forward to accuse the producer of sexually harassing or raping them in exchange for career help. Actress Dominique Huett claimed Weinstein masturbated in front of her and performed oral sex on her in 2010. She sued his studio for $5 million.

Actress Uma Thurman, who starred in some of Weinsteins hit movies, such as Pulp Fiction and the Kill Bill movies, also has accused the producer of attempting to sexually assault her in London in 1994.

In his suit, filed Sunday, Schneiderman seeks steep financial penalties from Weinstein, his brother and company co-founder Robert Weinstein, and the New York-based firm itself; victim restitution; court oversight of the companys compliance with any settlement; and a court order that would invalidate non-disclosure agreements signed by women who had contact with the producer.

The attorney general also wants to block any transaction that would strip his office from having legal authority over the company, according to the complaint filed in New York Supreme Court.

Representatives for the company and the Weinstein brothers couldnt immediately be reached for comment. Spokespeople for Contreras-Sweet and Burkle also didnt immediately return calls and emails for comment. The suit isnt aimed at blocking the sale to Contreras-Sweets group, a spokesperson for the attorney general said Sunday.

Contreras-Sweet, the former head of the Small Business Administration under Obama, offered to buy Weinsteins studio and replace current directors with a majority of women. Contreras-Sweets investment group, which includes Burkle, would assume most of the liabilities of Weinstein Co. and create a fund to compensate victims of sexual harassment.

As part of the suit, Schneiderman is demanding the right to have a monitor appointed to ensure the studio complies with the terms of any settlement of the sexual-harassment suits. The attorney general said Weinstein Co. officials repeatedly turned a blind eye to the producers sexual misconduct.

Instead of moving to sanction Weinstein, directors failed to investigate a series of sexual-harassment claims levied against him, and instead used strict non-disclosure agreements to gag victims, according to court filings. The lawsuit says that each brother has about 21 per cent of the voting shares and that Robert remains on the board.Despite the mutual chilliness between U.S. and North Korean officials in South Korea last week, behind the scenes real progress was made toward a new diplomatic opening that could result in direct talks without preconditions between Washington and Pyongyang. This window of opportunity was born out of a new understanding reached between the White House and the president of South Korea.

U.S. Vice-President Mike Pence, in an interview aboard Air Force Two on the way home from the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, told me that in his two substantive conversations with South Korean President Moon Jae-in during his trip, the United States and South Korea agreed on terms for further engagement with North Korea  first by the South Koreans and potentially with the United States soon thereafter.

The frame for the still-nascent diplomatic path forward is this: The United States and its allies will not stop imposing steep and escalating costs on the Kim Jong Un regime until it takes clear steps toward denuclearization. But the Trump administration is now willing to sit down and talk with the regime while that pressure campaign is ongoing.

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Pence called it maximum pressure and engagement at the same time. Thats an important change from the previous U.S. position, which was to build maximum pressure until Pyongyang made real concessions and only then to engage directly with the regime.

The point is, no pressure comes off until they are actually doing something that the alliance believes represents a meaningful step toward denuclearization, Pence said. So the maximum pressure campaign is going to continue and intensify. But if you want to talk, well talk.

Pence and Moon worked this out during their bilateral meeting Thursday at the Blue House and their joint viewing of speed-skating heats in Pyeongchang on Saturday evening. Pence conferred with U.S. President Donald Trump every day he was in Asia. Before these meetings, the Trump and Moon administrations were not aligned on whether Seouls new engagement with Pyongyang should continue after the Olympics end.

That dissonance showed just before their first meeting, when Moon said he wanted Olympic engagement to lead to real negotiations while Pence talked only about the pressure track. But inside the meeting, there was a breakthrough. Pence told Moon the international community must not repeat the mistakes of the past by giving North Korea concessions in exchange for talking. Pence asked Moon for his idea of how this engagement could be different.

Moon assured Pence he would tell the North Koreans clearly that they would not get economic or diplomatic benefits for just talking  only for taking concrete steps toward denuclearization. Based on that assurance, Pence felt confident he could endorse post-Olympic engagement with Pyongyang.

I think it is different from the last 20 years, Pence said. I asked him what exact steps Pyongyang would have to take to get real sanctions relief. I dont know, he said. Thats why you have to have talks.

The initial move the U.S. wants is for North Korea to put denuclearization on the table and take steps toward it, though that is not a condition for preliminary talks. That may be a bridge too far for the Kim regime, which is adamant that the international community accept its nuclear status. Pyongyang is also sure to want concessions from Washington, such as a delay in U.S.-South Korean military exercises, a non-starter for the alliance.

There are other spoilers that could torpedo the new opening. In Tokyo, Pence announced new sanctions on North Korea that he promised would be the toughest ever, due to be unveiled soon. In response, the Kim regime may resume testing its nuclear and missile programs, as it has done after past Olympic detentes. That would halt the diplomatic progress in its tracks.

Moon is working hard to prevent that from happening. He is entertaining a North Korean offer to visit Pyongyang. He is also urging the North Koreans to sit down with the United States at the earliest opportunity.

Moon told me at the skating rink that he told (the North Koreans), Youve got to talk to the Americans,  Pence said.

The idea of talks about talks is not new. In fact, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has raised the idea multiple times. Trump himself has said he sees nothing wrong with talking with the North Koreans per se. Moving from that to substantive negotiations would still be extremely difficult. But to make any real progress, talking is the first necessary step.

The White Houses endorsement of the concept of initial talks without preconditions is hugely significant. It provides a real fix to the break between Washington and Seoul. It also increases the chances the United States and North Korea will soon begin a process that represents the best hope of preventing a devastating international conflict.

Read more about:WASHINGTONCorey El was watching The Office as the train he takes a few times a year from New York City to Niagara Falls, N.Y., pulled into Syracuse.

When he glanced up from his laptop last Thursday, he was startled. A U.S. Border Patrol agent was looking down at him from the aisle.

This has never happened to him before, and the reason seemed obvious. By land, Syracuse is more than 153 kilometres (95 miles) from the Canadian border.

I had to look at the stop, said El, 27. Like, were in Syracuse. What are they doing here?

It turned out the agent had a question for him and an assortment of other passengers. The question added anger to his bewilderment.

Are you a citizen of the United States?

El, a New Yorker born and raised, suspected he might not have to answer. But he also did not think it was worth taking the risk involved in being a Black man who refuses to co-operate with law enforcement.

Instead, he muttered a scoffing yeah. The agent turned to move on. El told him he was pretty sure what he was doing was illegal.

To the dismay of civil liberties advocates, the U.S. government says it is perfectly legal. And to the confusion of people on buses and trains in states near Canada  most of whom, like El, are not carrying passports  it appears to be happening with increased regularity in the Donald Trump era.

A U.S. law gives the Border Patrol the right to board and search any vehicle within a reasonable distance of the countrys boundaries. A 1953 regulation defines reasonable as within 100 miles (160 kilometres).

Because boundaries include coasts, the 100-mile zone includes entire states  all or almost all of New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Vermont, the American Civil Liberties Union notes.

The zone also includes Houston and Los Angeles. All in all, well over half of Americans, more than 175 million people, live in a place where the Border Patrol believes it has the right to question people, search their vehicles and detain people it believes are unlawfully present.

The bus and train checks are not new. But they appear to be happening more often near the Canadian border than they did in the five years prior to Trumps tenure. And they have attracted renewed scrutiny around the country as Trump touts his crackdown on illegal immigration and gives the Border Patrol more money and leeway.

Miriam Aukerman, senior staff attorney at Michigans ACLU, said Border Patrol checks far from the border are a violation of Americans constitutional right against unreasonable search and seizure.

From a legal perspective and from a common sense perspective, the entire state of Michigan is not a reasonable distance from the border, she said. Border Patrol belongs at the border, not in our communities.

The legal director for the ACLU of Maine, where the Border Patrol now does daily bus checks, is advising citizens not to co-operate.

I would hope that many of them will refuse to answer those questions, Zachary Heiden said. And will say, This isnt the kind of country I want to live in, where government officials are demanding our papers everywhere we go, and Im not answering your questions. And would be polite but firm.

Former president Barack Obama had reduced the use of the bus and train checks in Canadian-border states. After the New York Times reported complaints from passengers on a Chicago-to-New York train, Obama, according to the Associated Press, told the Border Patrol in 2011 to stop checking people on buses and trains everywhere but the 100-mile zone adjacent to Mexico, unless they had specific intelligence.

The agents union was dismayed, arguing that no-cause checks were also effective near Canada and the oceans. Now Trump, who was endorsed by that union, has given agents a green light to resume.

A senior agent told Maine Public Radio in January that they had started daily checks on buses running from a border town to the states interior, plus periodic checks on buses starting in Bangor, more than 90 miles from Canada.

In August, the Border Patrol set up its first highway checkpoint in New Hampshire in five years  more than 70 miles from the border, and near a local marijuana festival. It used drug-sniffing dogs, then turned over people suspected of drug possession to state police for arrest. The ACLU is challenging drug arrests from the checkpoint as a violation of the state constitution.

In late January, Border Patrol agents were filmed doing a check on a Greyhound bus from Orlando to Miami, asking passengers to produce identification. They ended up escorting a woman off the bus who had allegedly overstayed her tourist visa. The video went viral.

And in an August case that led to criticism from Republican Vermont Gov. Phil Scott, Border Patrol agents boarded a Greyhound in a village after midnight, asking every passenger if they were American. Danielle Bonadona, a Dartmouth College special instructor in film and media, said one of them blocked the door to prevent anyone from leaving.

The Border Patrols intensification in Vermont is overreach, Scott said later.

People should be allowed to move freely in Vermont, he told Vermont newspaper Seven Days.

Bonadona, 29, said the agent who questioned her moved on when she said she was American. She said he was not satisfied with the same reassurance from certain others.

The only people they asked for identification from were the people who looked not-white, she said.

ACLU officials say they are concerned 100-mile-zone checks are being used as a way to conduct racial profiling. And they say the people subjected to questioning, who are not told they have the right to refuse to discuss their citizenship, often do not see it as the voluntary exercise the Border Patrol says it is.

A Border Patrol spokesperson said the checks on vehicles are done in direct support of border enforcement efforts and as a way to stop smuggling and criminal organizations from exploiting existing transportation hubs to travel to the interior. Daniel Heibert, a chief patrol agent in Maine, told Maine Public Radio that agents have to have a reasonable suspicion to think that somebody isnt a citizen to ask them more than initial questions.

It has never been clear how agents develop this suspicion, and critics say there is no evidence the Border Patrol can fight organized crime by asking people on northern buses if they are American. Chris Rickerd, policy counsel in the ACLUs national office, said the government has not proven the checks achieve any priority other than creating fear and deporting long-standing members of the community.

The Trump-era intensification can be overstated. The Border Patrol doesnt keep track of how many people it questions, but its data shows that the number of arrests near Canada during Trumps first eight full months in 2017, 2,430, was less than half the number for those same months for Obama-era 2010: 5,125.

Still, the 2017 figure was a 44 per cent increase from 1,687 in Obamas last year.

After the Florida check went viral, 19 Democrats demanded that Congress conduct a comprehensive review of what reasonable distance means. An immigration reform package that was approved by the Senate in 2013 would have changed the definition of reasonable from 100 miles to 25 miles, but the package died in the House of Representatives.

With Trump in office, there is no current prospect for a change that is seen to ease up on the border in any way.

Read more about:WASHINGTONA week after he won the election, U.S. President Donald Trump promised that his administration would round up millions of immigrant gang members and drug dealers. And after he took office, arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers surged 40 per cent.

Officials at the agency commonly known as ICE praise Trump for putting teeth back into immigration enforcement, and they say their agency continues to prioritize national security threats and violent criminals, much as the Obama administration did.

But as ICE officers get wider latitude to determine whom they detain, the biggest jump in arrests has been of immigrants with no criminal convictions. The agency made 37,734 noncriminal arrests in the governments 2017 fiscal year, more than twice the number in the previous year. The category includes suspects facing possible charges as well as those without criminal records.

Critics say ICE is increasingly grabbing at the lowest-hanging fruit of deportation-eligible immigrants to meet the presidents unrealistic goals, replacing a targeted system with a scattershot approach aimed at boosting the agencys enforcement statistics.

ICE has not carried out mass roundups or major workplace raids under Trump, but nearly every week brings a contentious new arrest.

A Virginia mother was sent back to El Salvador in June after her 11 years in the United States unravelled because of a traffic stop. A Connecticut man with an American-born wife and children and no criminal record was deported to Guatemala last week. And an immigration activist in New York, Ravi Ragbir, was detained in January in a case that brought ICE a scathing rebuke from a federal judge.

It ought not to be  and it has never before been  that those who have lived without incident in this country for years are subjected to treatment we associate with regimes we revile as unjust, said U.S. District Judge Katherine Forrest, reading her opinion in court before ordering ICE to release Ragbir.

We are not that country, she said.

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Immigrants whose only crime was living in the country illegally were largely left alone during the latter years of the Obama administration. But that policy has been scrapped.

Those facing deportation who show up for periodic check-ins with ICE to appeal for more time in the United States can no longer be confident that good behaviour will spare them from detention. Once-routine appointments now can end with the immigrants in handcuffs.

More broadly, the Trump administration has given street-level ICE officers and field directors greater latitude to determine whom they arrest and under what conditions, breaking with the more selective enforcement approach of President Barack Obamas second term.

Trump officials have likened this to taking the shackles off, and they say morale at ICE is up because its officers have regained the authority to detain anyone they suspect of being in the country illegally.

Officers are detaining suspects in courthouses more often, and ICE teams no longer shy from taking additional people into custody when they knock on doors to arrest a targeted person.

What are we supposed to do? said Matthew Albence, the top official in the agencys immigration enforcement division, who described the administrations goal as simply restoring the rule of law. If ICE fails to uphold its duties to enforce immigration laws, he added, then the system has no integrity.

In addition to arresting twice as many immigrants who have not been convicted of crimes, ICE also arrested 105,736 immigrants with criminal convictions, a slight increase. That figure includes people with serious or violent offences as well as those with lesser convictions, such as driving without a license or entering the country illegally.

ICEs arrest totals in Trumps first year in office are still much lower than they were during Obamas early tenure, which the agency says is partly because it is contending with far more resistance from state and local governments that oppose Trumps policies. And the presidents repeated negative characterizations of some immigrant groups have created an atmosphere in which arrests that were once standard now erupt as political flash points.

Obama initially earned the moniker deporter in chief because his administration expelled hundreds of thousands of immigrants, including people with no criminal records. But when Republicans blocked his effort to create a path to citizenship for millions living in the country illegally, Obama curtailed ICE enforcement, especially for those without serious criminal violations. Those measures incensed Republicans  and eventually helped to propel Trump into office.

An estimated 11 million people are living in the United States without legal residency, and the new era of ICE enforcement has shattered the presumption that their social and economic integration into American life would protect them.

Because immigration records are generally secret, it is difficult to independently verify how federal agents decide to make arrests. Immigrant advocates and ICE often clash over immigration cases, and both sides frequently present incomplete versions of an immigrants case.

Last month, a college chemistry instructor in Kansas, Syed Ahmed Jamal, was arrested on his lawn while preparing to take his daughter to school. He arrived from Bangladesh 30 years ago and built a life in the United States. More than 57,000 people signed an online petition asking ICE to stop his deportation, describing him as a community leader and loving father.

An immigration judge placed a temporary stay Wednesday on ICEs attempt to deport him, but the agencys account of Jamals case is starkly different. ICE said he arrived in 1987 on a temporary visa. He was ordered to leave the United States in 2002, and he complied, but three months later, he returned  legally  and overstayed again. A judge ordered him to leave the country in 2011, but he did not. ICE said agents took Jamal into custody in 2012. He lost his appeal in 2013.

At first glance, Albence said, many of ICEs arrests may seem like sympathetic cases  individuals who are here, and who have been here a long time.

But the reason theyve been here a long time is because they gamed the system, he said.

Defenders of the tougher approach applaud ICEs new resolve and say it is U.S. immigration courts  not ICE  that are determining who should be allowed to stay. And they reject the idea that the longer someone has lived in the country, the more the person deserves to be left alone.

As someone who has practiced law for 20-plus years, I find strange the idea the longer you get away with a violation, the less stiff the punishment should be, and that your continued violation of the law is basis for the argument that you shouldnt suffer the consequences of that violation, said Matthew OBrien, director of research at the Federation for American Immigration Reform, or FAIR, which backs Trumps approach.

The furor that has followed recent ICE arrests reflects a deeper disagreement  not unlike the fight over young, undocumented dreamers  about the consequences that those in the country illegally should face.

Living in the United States without legal status is generally treated as a civil violation, not a criminal one. And many Americans, especially Democrats, do not view it as an offence worthy of arrest and deportation once someone has settled into American life.

But in the hyper-politicized atmosphere of the immigration debate, where the merits of these arrests are increasingly litigated in public, partisans now argue over each immigrants perceived worthiness to remain in the country, even when a full grasp of the facts is lacking.

When a 43-year-old Polish-born doctor in Michigan who came to the United States at age 5 was arrested last month, supporters rushed to his defence. ICE justified its decision by saying the doctor, who was a permanent legal resident, had had repeated encounters with local police and two 1992 misdemeanour convictions for destruction of property and receiving stolen items, crimes that under U.S. immigration law are considered evidence of moral turpitude.

Others who committed crimes long ago and satisfied their obligations to the American justice system have learned there is no statute of limitations on ICEs ability to use the immigrants offences as grounds to arrest and deport them.

When Ragbir, the New York immigration activist, was detained last month during a scheduled check-in with ICE, his supporters accused the agency of targeting him for retaliation.

But Ragbir is the type of person who is now a top priority for ICE. After becoming a lawful U.S. resident in 1994, he was convicted of mortgage and wire fraud in 2000.

Ragbir served two years in prison, then married a U.S. citizen in 2010. Immigration courts repeatedly spared him from deportation, but his most recent appeal was denied, and ICE took him into custody eight days before his residency was due to expire.

Ragbir was so stunned that he lost consciousness, court records show, and was taken to a hospital.

The sanctuary campaign

Former acting ICE director John Sandweg, who helped draft the 2014 memo that prioritized arrests based on the severity of immigrants criminal offences, said the agency has resources to deport only about 200,000 cases a year from the interior of the United States.

The problem is, when you remove all priorities, its like a fisherman who could just get his quota anywhere, Sandweg said. It diminishes the incentives on the agents to go get the bad criminals. Now their job is to fill the beds.

Albence said the agencys priority remains those who represent a threat to public safety or national security, just as it was under Obama. The difference now is that agents are also enforcing judges deportation orders against all immigrants who are subject to such orders, regardless of whether they have criminal records.

Theres no list where we rank This is illegal alien number 1 all the way down to 2.3 million,  he said.

Albence said ICE prioritizes its caseload using government databases and law enforcement methods to track fugitives. But in the vast majority of cases, ICE takes custody of someone after state or local police have arrested the person.

This approach dovetailed with ICEs enforcement emphasis on targeting serious criminals, and at first, the Obama administration and other Democrats embraced it. But activists protested that ICE was arresting people pulled over for driving infractions and other minor offences at a time when Congress was debating whether to grant undocumented immigrants legal residency. Advocacy groups pushed cities and towns to become sanctuary cities that refused to co-operate with ICE.

ICEs caseload far exceeds the capacity of its jails. In addition to the 41,500 immigrants in detention, according to the most recent data, the agency has a caseload of roughly three million deportation-eligible foreigners, equal to about 1 in 4 of the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants nationwide.

More than 542,000 of those are considered fugitives, meaning they did not show up for their immigration hearings and were ordered deported, or they failed to leave the country after losing their cases. Nearly 2 in 3 were not considered a priority for deportation under Obama. They are now.

An additional 2.4 million undocumented immigrants are free pending hearings or appeals, or because the agency has not been able to deport them yet and the Supreme Court has ruled that such individuals cannot be jailed indefinitely. Nearly 1 million of this group have final deportation orders, including 178,000 convicted criminals.

They include the Michigan doctor and Ragbir, the New York activist.

Its true that all these people are deportable, but that doesnt mean they should all have equal value, said Cecilia Munoz, a former policy adviser to Obama who helped shape the administrations tiered enforcement approach.

By crowding the courts with all kinds of people, youre creating a resource problem, Munoz said.

If you apply that logic to local police forces, youre saying that every robber and rapist is the same as a jaywalker. And then youre clogging your courts with jaywalkers.

Read more about:Last month, the Toronto Region learned it had made Amazons shortlist of 20 potential candidates to host its second North American headquarters. We are honoured to have been included in this esteemed group of incredible cities  even more so as Canadas representative on the list.

This is an unmistakable sign that our region is regarded as one of the best destinations in North America for investment and expansion. The Amazons of the world are taking note, and we believe its the start of big things to come for our region.

It took the support of all three levels of government to put together competitive bids and we are indebted to both the Province of Ontario and Government of Canada for their support.

Since we submitted our collective bid, the interest in the Toronto Region as a place to set up shop has never been stronger. And no wonder. With world-class, affordable talent; a booming tech sector; the highest rate of post-secondary graduates in the OECD; and a population of 6.5 million that speaks more than 180 languages and dialects, the Toronto Region has all the ingredients to be one of the best cities in the world in which to live and work.

We knew our best selling point was the diversity of our economy and our people. Our challenge was to make sure that message got delivered  clearly and cohesively.

Our bid was unique in that it was a truly regional effort. It didnt focus on the assets of any one particular jurisdiction. We took this collaborative approach because we knew it was the best way to win.

Global businesses, such as Amazon, dont see municipal boundaries. Rather, they look to assets across an entire region to support their activities. They tap into supply chains made up of firms interspersed throughout the area and recruit people who commute from neighbouring communities. When a foreign company establishes in Markham or Ajax or Burlington, the entire Toronto Region benefits from the creation of jobs and the spinoff effects from having a new, globally connected firm to impart knowledge and goods and services.

A new study from urban researchers David Wolfe and Richard DiFrancesco at the University of Toronto, entitled Collaborating for Investment Attraction in the Toronto Region, shows definitive proof of this.

Looking at nine recent major investment initiatives by large, global firms in the Toronto Region, including IBM, Cisco, General Motors and Thomson Reuters, their research found that not only does every municipality in the Toronto Region see an uptick in economic activity from a new investment project, the regional economy as a whole is transformed by the linkages created through research partnerships and the connections built with companies already here.

Siemens, for example, maintains its Canadian head office at a recently leased facility in Oakville, but this acts as an anchor within a much wider subsidiary and distribution network spread throughout the GTA. The company has numerous partnerships with the regions leading post-secondary institutions  including the University of Toronto, Ryerson University, Sheridan College and Seneca College  and is collaborating with other businesses to promote clean tech innovation in Canada.

The increase in GDP and employment generated by these investments can be measured readily, but its the intangible people connections and knowledge transfer that can enhance a regions prosperity for years to come.

To attract this kind of investment, city regions need a well-defined brand and a co-ordinated approach. They need to build a value proposition that hinges on the strength of their entire economic ecosystem. Thats why one year ago we created a new agency called Toronto Global to spearhead this effort. Toronto Global played an essential role in delivering the Amazon bid and we are proud of what it has achieved.

But whether the Toronto Region wins HQ2 or not, the Amazon bid has revealed much about what global corporations consider when investing in a location. That insight should not be forgotten.

To be an attractive and competitive jurisdiction, we need to continue to build regional connections through infrastructure investments and economic planning. We need to continue to support our talented and growing workforce  a crucial driver for any company looking to expand and thrive.

Weve now got the worlds attention and proof that when we do work together, everyone wins. Collaboration is key to our collective success.

Submitted by Toronto Global on behalf of Toronto Mayor John Tory; Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie; Brampton Mayor Linda Jeffrey; Durham Region Chair Roger Anderson; Halton Region Chair Gary Carr; York Region Chair Wayne Emmerson.

Read more about:Traders have shrugged off most regulatory concerns for the time being. Here are the top stories in crypto on Monday.

Cryptocurrencies were making broad strides into the green on Monday, Feb. 12, as regulatory concerns appeared to fade some.

Bitcoin reached as high as nearly $8,900 in earlier trading Monday, and then down to about $8,780 in late afternoon action. The leading cryptocurrency was higher about 5% for the day, joined by most other larger-cap crypto assets in its gains.

These are the top stories to keep in mind as cryptocurrencies appreciate.

T-Mobile's Blockchain Move

T-Mobile U.S. Inc. (TMUS) - Get T-Mobile US, Inc. Report has reportedly been working on its own enterprise blockchain solution for several months now and is nearing the completion process, according to Coindesk. The project is called Hyper Directory and it will serve as a blockchain proof of concept technology. For T-Mobile, the Hyper Directory can control who gets access to what part of the company's cloud-based solutions. The directory has been designed in order to seamlessly integrate with other T-Mobile open-source software. According to Coindesk, Hyper Directory will be released in the near future.

Iceland Mulls Tax

Icelandic lawmaker Smari McCarthy has proposed the idea of imposing a new tax on bitcoin mining companies, according to an interview with the Associated Press. Iceland has become something of a hub for bitcoin miners given its abundant geothermal power and cool temperatures that keep mining hardware chilled without added electricity costs. "Under normal circumstances, companies that are creating value in Iceland pay a certain amount of tax to the government," McCarthy said. "These companies are not doing that, and we might want to ask ourselves if they should."

IMF Says Regulation Inevitable

International Monetary Fund head Christine Lagarde said regulation of cryptocurrencies has become "inevitable," according to CNN Money. "It's clearly a domain where we need international regulation and proper supervision," she said. The IMF's major concerns with crypto lie in their potential utilization for illegal financial activities including money laundering and fraud. Lagarde clarified that regulatory action should be activity-based, focusing on "who is doing what and whether they're properly licensed and supervised."

EU Watchdogs Unite

The European Banking Authority, European Securities and Markets Authority and European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority banded together to warn investors they could lose their money in a bitcoin "pricing bubble," according to a joint statement from the three bodies. "They are highly risky, generally not backed by any tangible assets and unregulated under EU law, and do not, therefore, offer any legal protection to consumers," regulators said of cryptocurrencies.

Get all of TheStreet's crypto coverage right here:The following companies are subsidiares of Bristol-Myers Squibb: 1096271 B.C. ULC, 345 Park LLC, A.G. Medical Services P.A., AHI Investment LLC, AbVitro LLC, Abraxis BioScience Australia Pty Ltd., Abraxis BioScience Inc., Abraxis BioScience International Holding Company Inc., Abraxis BioScience LLC, Abraxis BioScience Puerto Rico LLC, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Adnexus, Adnexus a Bristol-Myers Squibb R&D Company, Allard Labs Acquisition G.P., Amira Pharmaceuticals, Amira Pharmaceuticals Inc., Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Apothecon LLC, B-MS Generx Unlimited Company, BMS Benelux Holdings B.V., BMS Bermuda Nominees L.L.C., BMS Data Acquisition Company LLC, BMS Forex Company, BMS Holdings Sarl, BMS Holdings Spain S.L., BMS International Insurance Designated Activity Company, BMS Investco SAS, BMS Korea Holdings L.L.C., BMS Latin American Nominees L.L.C., BMS Luxembourg Partners L.L.C., BMS Omega Bermuda Holdings Finance Ltd., BMS Pharmaceutical Korea Limited, BMS Pharmaceuticals Germany Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals International Holdings Netherlands B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Korea Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Mexico Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Netherlands Holdings B.V., BMS Real Estate LLC, BMS Spain Investments LLC, BMS Strategic Portfolio Investments Holdings Inc., Blisa Acquisition G.P., Bristol (Iran) S.A., Bristol Iran Private Company Limited, Bristol Laboratories Inc., Bristol Laboratories International S.A., Bristol Laboratories Medical Information Systems Inc., Bristol-Myers (Andes) L.L.C., Bristol-Myers (Private) Limited, Bristol-Myers Middle East S.A.L., Bristol-Myers Overseas Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Israel) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (NZ) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Proprietary) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (Singapore) Pte. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Taiwan) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb (West Indies) Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb A.E., Bristol-Myers Squibb Aktiebolag, Bristol-Myers Squibb Argentina S. R. L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Australia Pty. Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Axia Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb B.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Belgium S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Business Services Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada Co., Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada International Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Delta Company Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Denmark Filial of Bristol-Myers Squibb AB, Bristol-Myers Squibb EMEA Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Egypt LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Epsilon Holdings Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Ltda., Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Portuguesa S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb GesmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb GmbH & Co. KGaA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holding Germany GmbH & Co. KG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings 2002 Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Ireland Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Pharma Ltd. Liability Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Ilaclari Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb India Pvt. Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Company Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb International Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Investco L.L.C., Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K., Bristol-Myers Squibb Kft., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg International S.C.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb MEA GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Manufacturing Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Marketing Services S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb Middle East & Africa FZ-LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Norway Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Nutricionales de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Peru S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (HK) Ltd, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (Thailand) Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Holding Company LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma Ventures Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Polska Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Products SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Puerto Rico/Sanofi Pharmaceutical Partnership Puerto Rico, Bristol-Myers Squibb Romania S.R.L., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.A.U., Bristol-Myers Squibb S.r.l., Bristol-Myers Squibb SA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Holding Partnership, Bristol-Myers Squibb Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Service Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Services Sp. z o.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Spol. s r.o., Bristol-Myers Squibb Theta Finance Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Trustees Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Colombia S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Costa Rica Sociedad Anonima, Bristol-Myers Squibb de Guatemala S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb/Astrazeneca EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Pfizer EEIG, Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals Partnership, Bristol-Myers de Venezuela S.C.A., CHT I LLC, CHT II LLC, CHT III LLC, CHT IV LLC, CR Finance Company LLC, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals, Cardioxyl Pharmaceuticals Inc., Celem LLC, Celem Ltd., Celgene, Celgene A.B., Celgene AS, Celgene Ab (Finland), Celgene Alpine Investment Co. II LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. III LLC, Celgene Alpine Investment Co. LLC, Celgene ApS, Celgene B.V., Celgene BVBA, Celgene Brasil Produtos Farmaceuticos Ltda., Celgene CAR LLC, Celgene CAR Ltd., Celgene Chemicals Sarl, Celgene China Holdings LLC, Celgene Co., Celgene Corporation, Celgene Distribution B.V., Celgene EngMab GmbH, Celgene Europe B.V., Celgene Europe Limited, Celgene European Investment Company LLC, Celgene Financing Company LLC, Celgene Global Holdings Sarl, Celgene GmbH [Austria], Celgene GmbH [Germany], Celgene GmbH [Switzerland], Celgene Holdings East Corporation, Celgene Holdings II Sarl, Celgene Holdings III Sarl, Celgene Ilac Pazarlama ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Celgene Inc., Celgene International Holdings Corporation, Celgene International II Sarl, Celgene International III Sarl, Celgene International Inc., Celgene International Sarl, Celgene K.K., Celgene Kft., Celgene Limited [Hong Kong], Celgene Limited [Ireland], Celgene Limited [New Zealand], Celgene Limited [Taiwan], Celgene Limited [UK], Celgene Logistics Sarl, Celgene Ltd, Celgene Luxembourg Sarl, Celgene Management Sarl, Celgene NJ Investment Co, Celgene Netherlands B.V., Celgene Netherlands Investment B.V., Celgene Pharmaceutical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Celgene Pte. Ltd., Celgene Pty Ltd, Celgene Puerto Rico Distribution LLC, Celgene Quanticel Research Inc, Celgene R&D Sarl, Celgene RIVOT LLC, Celgene RIVOT Ltd., Celgene RIVOT SRL, Celgene Receptos Limited, Celgene Receptos Sarl, Celgene Research Incubator At Summit West LLC, Celgene Research S.L.U., Celgene Research and Development Company LLC, Celgene Research and Development I ULC, Celgene Research and Development II LLC, Celgene Research and Investment Company II LLC, Celgene S. de R.L. de C.V., Celgene S.L.U., Celgene S.R.L., Celgene SAS, Celgene Sarl AU, Celgene Sdn Bhd, Celgene Services Sarl, Celgene Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Celgene Sp. Z.o.o., Celgene Sro [Czech Republic], Celgene Summit Investment Co, Celgene Switzerland Holding Sarl, Celgene Switzerland II LLC, Celgene Switzerland Investment Sarl, Celgene Switzerland LLC, Celgene Switzerland Sarl, Celgene Tri A Holdings Ltd., Celgene Tri Sarl, Celgene UK Distribution Limited, Celgene UK Holdings Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing II Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing III Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing Limited, Celgene d.o.o., Celgene sro [Slovakia], Celmed LLC, Celmed Ltd., ConvaTec Divestiture, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals AB, Crosp Ltd., Delinia Inc., Deuteria Pharmaceuticals Inc., DuPont Pharmaceuticals, E. R. Squibb & Sons Inter-American Corporation, E. R. Squibb & Sons L.L.C., E. R. Squibb & Sons Limited, EWI Corporation, EngMab Sarl, F-star Alpha, FermaVir Pharmaceuticals L.L.C., FermaVir Research L.L.C., Flexus Biosciences, Flexus Biosciences Inc., Forbius, Galecto Biotech, GenPharm International L.L.C., Gloucester Pharmaceuticals LLC, Grove Insurance Company Ltd., Heyden Farmaceutica Portuguesa Limitada, IFM Therapeutics, Impact Biomedicines Inc., Inhibitex, Inhibitex L.L.C., Innate Tumor Immunity Inc., JuMP Holdings LLC, Juno Therapeutics GmbH, Juno Therapeutics Inc., Kosan Biosciences, Kosan Biosciences Incorporated, Linson Investments Limited, Mead Johnson (Manufacturing) Jamaica Limited, Mead Johnson Jamaica Ltd., Medarex, Morris Avenue Investment II LLC, Morris Avenue Investment LLC, MyoKardia, O.o.o. Bristol-Myers Squibb, Oy Bristol-Myers Squibb (Finland) AB, Padlock Therapeutics, Padlock Therapeutics Inc., Pharmion LLC, Princeton Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Receptos LLC, Receptos Services LLC, RedoxTherapies Inc., Route 22 Real Estate Holding Corporation, SPV A Holdings ULC, Seamair Insurance DAC, Signal Pharmaceuticals LLC, Sino-American Shanghai Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Societe Francaise de Complements Alimentaires(S.O.F.C.A.), Squibb Middle East S.A., Summit West Celgene LLC, Swords Laboratories, VentiRx Pharmaceuticals Inc., Westwood-Intrafin SA, Westwood-Squibb Pharmaceuticals Inc., X-Body Inc., ZymoGenetics, ZymoGenetics Inc., ZymoGenetics LLC, ZymoGenetics Paymaster LLC, iPierian, and iPierian Inc..BURLINGTON, Vt.  The U.S. Coast Guard has a message for anyone thinking of boating across Lake Champlain this summer to take advantage of legal recreational marijuana in Vermont: Pot possession on the lake has been, is and remains a federal offense that carries potential jail time and a fine of up to $5,000.

Federal drug laws apply to boaters on the 132-mile lake because it is considered federal waters as part of the border between the U.S. and Canada, said Coast Guard Petty Officer Nicole Groll, a spokeswoman based in the regional headquarters in Boston. The Coast Guard covers the lake out of its station in Burlington, Vt.

Last month, U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions indicated the federal government will take a tougher stance on marijuana laws at a time when some states, such as Vermont and Massachusetts, are relaxing their state laws.

So far, there have been a handful of marijuana charges filed by the Coast Guard on Lake Champlain, with Groll estimating it at less than five instances during the last three years.

This summer, marijuana laws are loosening in the Green Mountain State. A recently passed state law that takes effect July 1 allows for limited possession of marijuana plants, but does not allow commercial sale of the drug.

Under federal law, boaters on the lake found with marijuana face up to one year in jail and a minimum fine of $1,000 on a first conviction for simple possession. For a second conviction, penalties increase to a 15-day mandatory minimum sentence with a maximum of two years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.

Subsequent convictions carry a 90-day mandatory minimum sentence and a maximum of up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

Sessions is reversing an Obama-era policy not to interfere with states that moved to loosen or repeal their state marijuana laws.

Sessions wrote that his memo "simply directs all U.S. Attorneys to use previously established prosecutorial principles that provide them all the necessary tools to disrupt criminal organizations, tackle the growing drug crisis, and thwart violent crime across our country."

"As our long history of prosecuting offenses involving marijuana and other controlled substances illustrates, we assess each matter on a case-by-case basis according to those principles and priorities and our commitment to equal justice under the law," said Grant C. Jaquith, U.S. Attorney in the Northern District, which covers the New York portion of Lake Champlain.

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"Operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a serious threat to public safety, and any such case falling under federal jurisdiction would get the same careful attention," Jaquith said.

The U.S. Attorney in Vermont, Christine Nolan, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, told the Burlington Free Press last week that the Sessions memo indicates her office has "very broad discretion in charging marijuana cases."

Under the new Vermont law, adults over 21 will be allowed to have up to one ounce of marijuana, and also can grow two mature marijuana plants and four immature marijuana plants per housing unit.

Vermont became the ninth state to legalize marijuana, and the first to end cannabis prohibition through an act of lawmakers. All eight other states that had previously legalized marijuana did so through voter-approved ballot initiatives.ALBANY  He was a mover and shaker among the Capital Region's business elites.

Or so he claimed.

Emails used as evidence in the federal corruption trial of Joseph Percoco, a former top aide to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, show that ex-lobbyist Todd Howe, the prosecution's star witness, held himself out as a power broker with at least one local CEO.

One email chain submitted as a defense exhibit in the trial shows Howe corresponding in 2012 with Kevin O'Connor, who was CEO of Tech Valley Communications, an Albany telecommunications firm that has since changed its name to FirstLight.

O'Connor  who no longer works for FirstLight  had sent a mass email on July 31, 2012, inviting "friends of the company" to an Aug. 2 press conference in which he was going to announce the company's plan to remain in downtown Albany and move into office space at 41 State St., ending speculation that the company might move to New Hampshire.

"I hope you can make it but in any event I want to thank you for your support of the company to enable us to get to this point in our development," O'Connor's mass email said. "No need to RSVP. Thanks."

Howe, who worked for the lobbying arm of Whiteman, Osterman & Hanna LLP, responded to O'Connor's email with "Congrats!! Great news!!"

In subsequent replies to that email, O'Connor thanked Howe and asked if he had heard anything from the governor's office about "issues" involving Central Hudson Gas & Electric.

At the time, Tech Valley Communications had a dispute with Central Hudson over using the utility's poles in Coeymans, New Baltimore and Ravena for its fiber optic wires. Central Hudson wanted to charge Tech Valley $788,000 for the use of the poles, a much higher figure than what Tech Valley Communications wanted to pay.

Tech Valley Communications had filed a complaint over the dispute with the state Public Service Commission in June 2012, and the matter was still before the PSC when Howe and O'Connor had their email exchange.

"Received a call from Michael Corso from the PSC who said he was reaching out to CHG&E to see if we could get (an) agreement to resolve the issues," O'Connor wrote Howe during that same July 31 email chain.

Howe, who worked for neither Cuomo nor the PSC, appears to have been in the know about the dispute in his response. Corso is the chief consumer advocate at the PSC.

"Great ... stay on top of him if you can as I know HG is on the PSC about this," Howe responded to O'Connor, referencing Howard Glaser, Cuomo's former state operations director. Like Howe and Percoco, Glaser served in the administration of Gov. Mario Cuomo and went on to work with his son at the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development under President Bill Clinton.

Disputes over the use of utility poles and the cost of using them is fairly common in New York State, so it is unclear why the state's operations director would have to get involved in such a mundane case.

Tech Valley Communications actually ended up settling the case on Aug. 15, 2012, for $200,000 without the PSC having to make a decision.

Howe forwarded the email exchange with O'Connor to his bosses at Whiteman, Osterman & Hanna, telling them that his dealings with O'Connor "should buy us good will," although the exact meaning of how that good will would be used is unclear.

Defense lawyers in the Percoco trial have said that Howe would alter emails he sent to associates for various reasons, but mostly to curry favor with his bosses.

Tailoring the message The defense in the trial of Joe Percoco has worked to hurt the credibility of prosecution witness Todd Howe by offering examples of how the disgraced lobbyist would alter emails to pump up his own reputation. Here's one example offered in evidence from January 2010, in which Howe altered an email from Percoco - congratulating Howe for introducing then-Attorney General Andrew Cuomo ("amc") at a fundraiser - that Howe subsequently sent to his boss at the firm of Whiteman, Osterman & Hanna; "MMC" refers to former Gov. Mario M. Cuomo, who both Howe and Percoco began their careers working for: Original: "Herb ... you really came thru and you gave a beautiful intro of amc. you did a great job here herb!" Altered: "Herb ... you really came thru and you gave a beautiful intro of amc. He keeps telling everyone we see how you brought a tear to his eyes last week. honest truth. you did a great job here herb! He told MMC about what you did and how WOH welcomed him to the firm." See More Collapse

"They demonstrate Howe's pattern of manipulating communications with numerous individuals in an effort to inflate his own importance and misrepresent the actions and intent of himself and others," lawyers for defendant Joseph Gerardi wrote in a Feb. 9 letter to the court seeking to admit the emails as evidence for cross-examination of Howe at the trial.

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Howe has pleaded guilty to eight felonies involving bribes and payoffs allegedly in concert with Percoco and the other defendants in the trial, all of them businessmen that Howe lobbied for.

Neither O'Connor nor Tech Valley Communications had anything to do with any of the charges against Percoco, Howe or the other defendants. The trial is expected to continue later this week.

Although Cuomo's lieutenant governor at the time, Robert Duffy, was speaking at the Aug. 2, 2012, press event announcing that Tech Valley Communications was going to remain in downtown Albany, Howe also suggested that O'Connor should invite Glaser to the event, along with SUNY Polytechnic Institute President Alain Kaloyeros and Gil Quinones, the head of the New York Power Authority.

Howe was being paid by the SUNY Research Foundation through SUNY Poly at the time.

Duffy was said at the time to have played a direct role in talks with Tech Valley Communications, which was offered $350,000 in state and local funding to consolidate its operations at 41 State St. The company remains in the location to this day.

James Denn, a spokesman for the PSC, noted Monday that the PSC never decided the Tech Valley Communications case discussed in the email exchange.

"The dispute was settled without any ruling from the Public Service Commission," Denn said.

Reached Monday, O'Connor said that FirstLight officials would be in a better position to answer the question of Howe's interest in the company's affairs and the emails.

"They are what they are," O'Connor said Monday. "I cannot comment on them."

FirstLight officials on Monday afternoon declined to comment.Colonie

When Lyft arrived at Albany International Airport last July, Capitaland Taxi immediately felt the impact. Its airport business  it has the exclusive contract to pick up taxi passengers at the terminal  tumbled 11.3 percent, according to figures from the Albany County Airport Authority.

Lyft, in just a six-month period from July through December, provided 19,528 rides from the airport.

For all of 2017, Capitaland's departures were down 5.3 percent, to 48,991 from 51,753 in 2016.

Despite the decline, Capitaland owner Bret Peek said the company is "holding our own up there," and that "I've just replaced all my cars" with new taxis.

So far, Lyft also hasn't reduced parking or rental car revenues.

Figures show the airport authority collected $14,985,300 in parking fees for all of 2017, up slightly from $14,870,500 a year earlier. Meanwhile, rental car revenues totaled $5,427,700 compared to $5,057,300 in 2016, a 7.3 percent increase.

Capitaland has the exclusive contract to pick up arriving passengers at the airport, while Lyft has the exclusive ride-hailing contract for passenger pick-up. Both Uber and Lyft, as well as other taxi companies, can drop off passengers. Uber has balked at having a third party verify its operations at the airport, something that would include monitoring its pick-up and drop-off activity.

Capitaland Taxi pays a $2 fee per vehicle each time it takes passengers from the airport, but doesn't pay a drop-off fee. Lyft pays $2 for each vehicle pickup and drop-off.

Peek of Capitaland touts the advantages of his taxi service.

While Lyft drivers may or may not be immediately available, Peek is under a contractual obligation with the airport to have taxis available at least a half hour before the first flight arrival and a half hour after the arrival of the last aircraft, even if that flight is late. And he has to have taxis there in all kinds of weather.

Capitaland has even made long-distance trips to Newark's airport if the local flight has been canceled or delayed, an airport spokesman said.

"Our guys have real background checks and real insurance," he said. "Insurance companies will tell (their customers), if you're caught ride-hailing, you will not be covered."

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However, Lyft does provide group coverage for its drivers in New York state, a spokesman for the state Department of Financial Services said and a Lyft official confirmed.

But Peek's big concern isn't Lyft. It's Uber.

He mentioned a taxi operator at the airport in Syracuse who lost 60 percent of his business with the arrival of Uber.

"As long as Uber doesn't decide to sign a contract, we're OK," Peek said Thursday afternoon. "If they do, all bets are off."When news outlets reported last summer that "The X-Files" appeared to have an all-male writing staff, it provoked criticism on social media that was spurred on by none other than Scully herself, Gillian Anderson. The actress noted on Twitter that only two of more than 200 episodes had been directed by women  one by Anderson and another by Michelle MacLaren  and even tweet-championed four female candidates: MacLaren, Lesli Linka Glatter, Philippa Lowthorpe and Carol Banker.

"The funny thing is," Banker said this week, "I had already been hired at that point. She just didn't know." (Two female directors and three female writers were brought on, additions not announced until after the criticism became public. Fox has said the hirings were not a response to the controversy.)

With Wednesday night's episode, which explored the classified military history of the stalwart Walter Skinner (Mitch Pileggi), assistant FBI director, Banker became the third female director in the history of "The X-Files." (Holly Dale directed an episode for later this season.) Banker has been a fixture of the franchise for years, working as a script supervisor, an actress and as a director for the short-lived spinoff, "The Lone Gunmen" (her TV directing debut). But she never got to direct the original show, something creator Chris Carter later told her he regretted. ("That meant a lot to me," Banker said.)

In a phone call, she chatted about Skinner's war and how Harvey Weinstein almost made her lose hope in the business. These are edited excerpts from the conversation.

Q: Walter Skinner's history has been elusive, but your episode reflects something he said in the second season about how he had to shoot a 10-year-old North Vietnamese boy during the war. Now we're seeing this incident more fully.

A: Right! I had to be reminded of that. (Laughs) You don't know that much about Skinner, so that was really exciting. In fact, when I had dinner with Mitch Pileggi, I wanted him to remind me what Skinner's deal was. Was he married or whatever? And Pileggi said, "Well ... I've been wearing a wedding ring because I forgot to take it off." I was like: "I'm pretty sure you're not married. But if you want to wear your ring, I'm OK with that."

Q: What sort of input did you have on the episode? What did you add to it, stylistically?

A: One thing was when Haley Joel Osment goes crazy and slaughters the villagers, I wanted to add a baby, add a baby crying. When Mulder is flipping through the photo album, I put some of my family photos in there. My mom just died last year, so it was very fresh, and I wanted to give her something. And when we were shooting Vietnam, I see this period beer that the props department has made called Orville. Orville is my dad's name, so I was like, "What?" Turns out, they had done it as a surprise for me.

Q: Haley Joel Osment gets to play essentially two characters, both of whom seem softer at first, then turn creepy.

A: It's tough to do that quickly, to make him be the scared kid and then creepy, because of the horror of what was happening in Vietnam. My one regret was, we wanted to shoot the scenes in order, to have his longer mane of hair and big beard for the present day, and then cut it off for the Vietnam flashbacks. But because the leaves were coming off the trees in Vancouver, we had to shoot Vietnam first.

Q: Was it fun to direct someone who had directed you before?

A: Who's that? Who directed me before?

Q: Gillian Anderson. She cast you in Season 7, in the first episode she directed, "All Things."

A: Holy cow! (Laughs) Well, I'm not really an actress, so of course I totally forgot about that. When that script came out, she just kept describing the character, "someone who looks like Carol Banker, someone who speaks like Carol Banker." And Rick Millikan, the casting director, was like, "Who's Carol Banker?!" I'm sure he was real proud that I was taking a job away from a real actor.

Q: I just thought it was interesting that you had this potentially empowering moment right when you might have needed it the most. On a podcast, you and Kevin Smith discussed a dispiriting encounter you had with Harvey Weinstein while you were working on "Dogma."

A: Yeah, it was horrible. It was a Monday morning, the day after the Oscars. There were some weird vibes, because Matt Damon and Ben Affleck won for "Good Will Hunting," and they had forgotten to thank Kevin (who helped them score a deal with Miramax). So I'm sitting in this room with Kevin, and Ben and Matt arrive, all euphoric from winning but also filled with mea culpas. And then Harvey comes in. He has a lit cigar, and he was knocking the ash from his cigar on the carpet. Then  and I'm just going to say two actresses, because I don't feel great saying who, they should be allowed to tell it themselves  two actresses come in the room. They were playing like they were fawning all over Harvey, and Harvey pulls out these hundred dollar bills and tosses the bills at these actresses. They leave, and he immediately starts talking about them like they're whores. Harvey wasn't even aware that I was in the room.

Q: He didn't look at you, talk to you, or acknowledge you?

A: No. I was completely invisible to him. And I start to cry. Finally, Harvey leaves, and I'm doing that weird little sniffling thing you do when you're trying not to cry. And Matt and Ben were like, "Carol, what's wrong?" I just lost it. "Are you kidding me?! This is the guy who is the gatekeeper to quality independent film, and he's the most horrific person I've ever witnessed in my life! I've got no chance in hell of making it in this business." It really sucked. Maybe you're right. Maybe getting offered "The X-Files" did feel empowering after that encounter. Thank you. This is like therapy! (A spokeswoman for Weinstein disputed this recollection in a statement that read, in part: "Ms. Banker's claim that Mr. Weinstein was on set the morning after the Oscars is not true. According to Mr. Weinstein's diary and itinerary, he was not on set the day after the ceremony and stayed in Los Angeles for a few days. Mr. Weinstein is completely baffled by this story that sounds like an inside joke given the relationships he had with the cast of 'Dogma.'")BALLSTON SPA - Unanticipated repairs to sewer and water has forced the village to borrow $600,000 to get it through to June 1, the end of its fiscal year.



"A bunch of bills came due before the revenues came in," Mayor John Romano said. "This is a short-term six-month loan that we will be able to pay off when the tax revenue comes in."



The Republican mayor and the board of trustees voted to take out the revenue anticipation note, or RAN loan, at the end of January. Romano said it was necessary because the village had to spend $132,167 in water line repairs, $836,000 in sewer repairs over four years and another $288,251 in contributions to the retirement system, which is due this month. He also said state Department of Transportation money for roads (CHIPS) is also down.



"A lot of it was a timing issue," Romano said. "We are struggling with infrastructure and staying below the tax cap."



Democratic trustee Noah Shaw said the village should not have gotten itself in this position.



"The annual budgeting process is meant to prevent exactly this kind of problem," Shaw said. "Very few of the expenses incurred by the village thus far this year  and even in prior years  were actually unforeseeable, if budgeting were done properly. We should expect infrastructure repairs, equipment replacements, rises in health insurance costs, etc."



Shaw, who was newly elected in 2017, said the village needs to stop digging itself further into a budgetary hole with new policies that include building up a reserve, consolidating services, bettering internal controls and raising revenue.



Romano said the village has worked to reduce its expenses. It has eliminated eight positions that have saved $645,000 a year and shares the expense of road salt with the town of Milton.



"It's still not enough," Romano said. "We need to do more. We can't continue to do business as usual."



He said the village will have to look at raising water and sewer rates. Raising taxes, with the state tax cap in place, will be more difficult.



Shaw is concerned that the loan from Ballston Spa National Bank won't be enough if more unseen expenses blindside the village before June 1.



"Unfortunately, there was no choice but to approve the measure," Shaw said. "The mayor stated that this loan is necessary because the village's bill schedule doesn't match its revenue schedule...We can learn important lessons about how we got here from looking at decisions that were made, or not made, over the course of prior budget years."A 42-year-old Cohoes woman faces up to three years in state prison after pleading guilty to stealing $225,000 worth of contact lenses from her job, according to Albany County District Attorney David Soares.

Kathleen Litchfield, who worked at DiNapoli Opticians in Colonie, pleaded guilty to felony attempted second-degree grand larceny, felony fourth-degree tax fraud before County Court Judge Peter Lynch.ALBANY  Gov. Andrew Cuomo's favorability rating tumbled over the last month, dropping by nearly 10 points, according to a new poll by the Siena Research Institute.

The just-released poll says 53 percent of New Yorkers have a favorable opinion of the governor, while 40 percent view him unfavorably. That's down from a 62-30 percent rating the month before and comes amid the federal corruption trial Cuomo's former top aide and advisor, Joseph Percoco, who is accused taking bribes from developers.

The drop comes as the Democrat prepares to run for a third four-year term. The two candidates seeking the Republican nomination, state Sen. John DeFrancisco and former Erie County Executive Joel Giambra, were barely known by voters, the poll found.

Cuomo's drop was among all voters, according to the poll.

"He's down with Democrats, more with Republicans, and even more with independents," Siena College pollster Steven Greenberg said in a statement released with the survey's results.

"In all three measures, Cuomo is down with voters in New York City, down big upstate and essentially unchanged in the downstate suburbs. The drop was much bigger with men than with women."

Cuomo's spokesman Rich Azzopardi shrugged off the movement in the governor's numbers as a normal fluctuation driven by national trends.

"In this new Trump reality, all politics is national," he said in a statement. " ... Over the past year, numbers have moved in connection with the national debate  bouncing up and down within the same 10-point range."

Azzopardi said U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer had seen similar ups and downs.

Meanwhile, the poll of 823 registered voters found strong support for Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who leads the investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Sixty-five percent of voters say Mueller is trustworthy, with 73 percent of Democrats, 49 percent of Republicans and 63 percent of independent voters holding that opinion.

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President Donald Trump did not do as well.

Trump's approval rating stood at 32 percent in New York, though Republicans hold a higher opinion of their party's leader. Sixty-five percent of Republicans find Trump trustworthy. Among Democrats, that number stands at 16 percent. Thirty-one percent of independent voters find him trustworthy.

And Trump's negative numbers could be dragging down the overall numbers for Republicans in Congress, who are found to be trustworthy by 37 percent of those polled. The number stood at 51 percent for Democrats in Congress.

The poll was conducted in English and by phone on Feb. 5-8.

SEE THE CROSS TABS FOR THE POLLOver two-thirds of Americans believe theres intelligent life on other planets. And most of those believers think the aliens are at least as smart as us, according to a new Marist Poll released Monday.

Whether thats a good thing or not wasnt polled.

But the poll shows a rising belief in the idea that if there is life beyond Earth, it is out there and it is intelligent. Only 52 percent of Americans believed in intelligent alien life in a May 2005 poll, compared to 68 percent in the new poll.

The number of believers skews young. Nearly 80 percent of adults under 30 said they believe in intelligent life on other planets. It falls to 60 percent among those 60 or older and that age bracket had the highest number of people who said they just werent sure, at 12 percent.

Men were more likely to believe in intelligent alien life, with 72 percent agreeing with the idea, versus 64 percent of women.

What hasnt changed much in the last 13 years is idea of just how intelligent that life might be.

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Forty-six percent said they believe the aliens are smarter than us, up from 45 percent in May 2005. In fact, Americans may be thinking less of their potential alien counterparts. The poll reports that 13 percent think the aliens are less intelligent than us, compared to 10 percent in the last poll. 12 percent of us still cant make up our mind on just how smart hypothetical alien life might be.

The poll didnt inquire when the eventual meeting of alien and human minds might be, but 55 percent say theyll find us before we find them. And 11 percent say theyve already found us.NEW YORK - State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman filed a lawsuit against The Weinstein Company on Sunday alleging the company knew its CEO was also sexually harassing and assaulting company female employees and did nothing to stop it.

The lawsuit, filed in New York State Supreme Court, also alleged CEO Harvey Weinstein threatened the lives of his victims to keep them silent.

The lawsuit follows a four-month investigation into film producer Weinstein's alleged sexual misconduct, which Schneiderman's office called an "egregious violations of New York's civil rights, human rights and business law."

"As alleged in our complaint, The Weinstein Company repeated broke New York law by failing to protect its employees from pervasive sexual harassment, intimidation and discrimination," Schneiderman said. "Any sale of The Weinstein Company must ensure that victims will be compensated, employees will be protected going forward, and that neither perpetrators nor enablers will be unjustly enriched. Every New Yorker has a right to a workplace free of sexual harassment, intimidation, and fear."

The investigation included interviews with multiple company employees, executives and targets of Weinstein's alleged misconduct. Schneiderman's office said the company tolerated a hostile work environment that included Weinstein telling several of his victims, "I will kill you," "I will kill your family" and "You don't know what I can do."

The suit alleged that Weinstein exchanged sexual favors for career advancement or to avoid adverse consequences on the job. He also lured them to his hotel room for work reasons and then badgered them to massage him. He also exposed himself to a female employee and made her take dictation from him as he leered at her, naked in his bed. He also positioned himself to grab his employees' genitalia while seated in the back of chauffeured cars.

When employees complained to the Human Resources Director or to other management, it is alleged no action was taken against Weinstein. Reporting victims were at times fired from the company and expected to sign a non-disclosure agreement, preventing them from speaking out.

Schneiderman's office also alleged that a cadre of female employees were directed to accompany Weinstein to events and to facilitate his sexual snares.

"These women were described by some witnesses as members of (Weinstein's) 'roster' or his 'wing women,'" the suit alleges. "One of the members of this entourage was flown from London to New York to teach (Weinstein's) assistants how to dress and smell more attractive to (him)."

Other female assistants, Schneiderman alleged, were ordered to contact "Friends of Harvey" and other prospective sexual partners via text messages or phone. They also were expected to maintain time on his calendar for sexual activities.

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Yet another group of women, predominantly executives, were forced to facilitate by meeting with potential conquests. He also expected them to follow through on employment promises on the women Weinstein favored.

"This compelled service demeaned and humiliated them, contributing to the hostile work environment," the suit alleged.

The lawsuit also named Weinstein's brother Robert Weinstein, who as co-chair and co-CEO, Schneiderman's office maintains, was responsible for maintaining a safe workplace, free of sexual harassment. The lawsuit also alleged he knew of the "persistent sexual harassment and misconduct" and took no actions to prevent it.

Finally, the investigation looked at The Weinstein Company's board minutes and contracts. Schneiderman's office found that Weinstein blocked the board from reviewing his personnel file for fear it would be leaked to the press.

Schneiderman's office also found that Weinstein's contract did not prohibit sexual harassment or misdeed. Rather, it contained a provision to penalize Weinstein for every act of sexual harassment or misconduct. The penalties started at $250,000 for the first incident up to $1 million for the fourth and every subsequent incident of sexual harassment and misconduct. It was voted on unanimously by the board.

Weinstein was terminated from The Weinstein Company in October 2017 after dozens of women, including Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Judd, came forward with charges of sexual harassment against the film producer.NYS Police

A 54-year-old Wisconsin man was arrested earlier this month for allegedly pilfering more than $100,000 from the Childrens Bible Fellowship in Carmel, troopers said.

State Police arrested David Eldredge, of Redgranite, Wis., and charged him with felony grand larceny.As the paper of record in New York's state capital, we were surprised to read the Times Union's opposition to a federal fix to the Scaffold Law, "Scaffold Law N.Y.'s business," Feb. 4. No newspaper in the state is likely more aware of the undue influence of the trial lawyers in New York politics. Gov. Andrew Cuomo himself called the trial lawyers, "the single most powerful political force in Albany" in response to a question about Scaffold Law reform in 2014.

At the time, it was assumed that Cuomo was referring to disgraced former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, who was later convicted of corruption in a scandal involving a trial lawyer law firm. While on the payroll of that law firm, Silver bragged of stopping Scaffold Law reform despite the obvious conflict of interest between his employer and the needs of New Yorkers.We've had a chance to benchmark the Snapdragon 845, and while the new mobile processor closes the speed gap with the A11 Bionic a little bit, Apple's blazing mobile processor is still faster. But we did see improved graphics performance from the Snapdragon 845, with Qualcomm's chip outperforming the iPhone X in some tests.





We conducted our benchmark tests at Qualcomm's headquarters, using a reference design device powered by the Snapdragon 845 mobile processing platform. (The Galaxy S9, launching Feb. 25, will reportedly feature the new Qualcomm chip.) The 5.5-inch device was loaded up with 6GB of RAM.

MORE: Snapdragon 845: What It Means for Your Next Smartphone

Since we tested on a device that will never see the light of day, the results we tallied could differ from another phone running on the Snapdragon 845, especially depending on the amount of RAM included with the phone. But these benchmarks should give us a pretty good idea of what the Snapdragon 845 will mean for mobile devices.

Overall Performance: Still No Match for A11 Bionic

Running Geekbench 4, which measures general performance, the Snapdragon 845-powered reference device recorded a multicore score of 8,409. That's a 28 percent jump from the 6,564 score we recorded when we reviewed the Snapdragon 835-powered Galaxy Note 8 last year.

Our Snapdragon 845 device also beat out Huawei's Mate 10 Pro, which runs on a Kirin 970 processor; that phone scored 6,784 when we tested it, which had been the high-water mark for Android devices.



For what it's worth, the Geekbench 4 scores we saw from the Snapdragon 845 device at Qualcomm weren't all that different from alleged Geekbench numbers that had leaked out back in December.



But Apple's iPhones have set the performance standard as of late, thanks to the A11 Bionic processor, and that's not going to change even with the arrival of the Snapdragon 845. We recorded a multicore Geekbench 4 score of 10,375 for the iPhone X. (The iPhone 8 Plus was even faster, at 10,472.)



The A11 chip also dominates with its single-core score. We recorded a single-core score of 4,055 for the iPhone 8 Plus in GeekBench  far better than the 2,449 single-core figure we saw from our Snapdragon 845-powered device.

Geekbench 4 is best at measuring short max bursts of performance, which is certainly important on a smartphone, but not necessarily the whole picture. Qualcomm would argue that the Snapdragon 845 can deliver sustained performance without also draining a lot of battery. (More on the Snapdragon 845's power management prowess in a moment.)

Snapdragon 845 Beats iPhone on Some Graphics Tests

The Snapdragon 845 fares much better when it comes to measuring graphics performance, even besting the iPhone X in a test we ran. That would be 3DMark's Sling Shot benchmark. Our Snapdragon 845 device turned in a score of 5,964 when we ran the OpenGL ES 3.0 benchmark. Running that same test on the iPhone X back in our lab, we saw a score of 3,998. On the Sling Shot Extreme OpenGL ES 3.1 benchmark, though, the iPhone X turned in the higher number  4,994 to the Snapdragon 845's 4,389.



The Snapdragon 845 device beat the Snapdragon 835-powered Note 8 (4,912) and OnePlus 5T (4,916) on the Sling Shot benchmark, and it bested the Mate 10 Pro and its 3,661 score, too. We also saw higher scores on the Snapdragon 845 device when we ran GFXBench 4.0.

Browser Performance

On the JavaScript-based JetStream benchmark measuring browser performance, our Snapdragon 845 device bested other Android devices with a score of 86.1. That's 30 percent better than our OnePlus 5T review unit, which includes 8GB of RAM. The iPhone X blows away Android devices here, with a score of 223, though that's a more a reflection of how the iOS platform handles JavaScript.



Qualcomm has touted some performance numbers since it unveiled the Snapdragon 845 late last year, promising a 25 percent improvement in performance uplift over the Snapdragon 835 and 30 percent improvement in graphics from the new Adreno 630 GPU. But performance is just one of what the chip maker describes as the pillars supporting its new mobile processor.

What We Can't Benchmark - Yet

The Snapdragon 845 is designed to provide greater immersion, whether through an improved image signal processor or the ability to produce smoother virtual reality experiences, offer better support for artificial intelligence, boost security with a secure processing unit adding vault-like features and improve connectivity with the new X20 LTE modem that can deliver gigabit speeds on networks where that's available.

Those aren't features we can benchmark on a reference device, though  we'll have to wait until we get our hands on a device powered by the Snapdragon 845 to see if it delivers on Qualcomm's goals.



Another aspect of the Snapdragon 845 that we weren't able to benchmark was its power-management features, though we did a see a demo that illustrates how this new mobile processor will consume less battery power. Qualcomm set up two mobile devices  one with the Snapdragon 845 and the other with last year's 835  and had them stream 4K video at 60 frames per second. The 845-powered device consumed an average of 1.6 watts, a 20 percent improvements over the 2 watts that the 835-powered device needed.

Outlook

We'll know more about how the Snapdragon 845 handles once we get a chance to measure the performance of a shipping device. From what we've seen so far, though, the new processor looks like it's made some solid performance gains over the Snapdragon 835, even if Apple's A11 Bionic still enjoys an edge in speed.



Credit: Philip Michaels/Tom's Guide

Tucked between the domestic frenzy that is the Detroit Auto Show and the international insanity of the Geneva Motor Show, the Chicago Auto Show (CAS) is a bit of an oddball on the auto show circuit schedule. Despite this, CAS is still the best-attended auto show in the States, regularly drawing over a million attendees ready to feast upon a cornucopia of fresh metal. Once again, the automakers have obliged, offering up a healthy selection of debuts for the new year, and in response, weve assembled a list of the best from this years Chicago Auto Show right here for your enjoyment. In addition to the latest production models and updates, we also threw in some highly desirable upgrades and even a few random old-school rides to ogle along the way. Read on for more.

First seen at the Geneva Motor Show last year, the Arteon is now arriving stateside with a debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Offered as Volkswagens latest upscale compact sedan, the Arteon gets a four-door fastback profile thats loaded with tons of little visual details, which is quite the departure from the ultra-understated aesthetic we usually get from the German automaker. Under the skin is the latest MQB architecture, while a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is added under the hood. Output is rated at 270 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Inside is a premium interior, with top-shelf materials and an Audi-esque layout. Tech like a digital cockpit, a heads-up display, and a 9.2-inch infotainment screen with gesture control make the list of optional equipment.

The Arteon is among the coolest cars there and a bit of a surprise, says TopSpeeds Ciprian Florea. Its not often we enjoy VWs efforts in this segment, but this time, we think the brand did it right.

Read our full review of the 2018 Volkswagen Arteon.

Factory Options That Kick Ass And Wont Void Your Warranty

Vehicle customization is as popular as ever, and Chicago drove the point home with a variety of tricked-out trucks and SUVs in Chicago  all with factory-approved parts that wont void your warranty.

First up is a new lift kit from Nissan, which adds inches to the ride height of its Titan and Titan XD pickup trucks. The kit comes from Icon Vehicle Dynamics, a well-known parts maker in the off-road community, and it boosts the Titan a full 3 inches when its all said and done. You can have it installed right at your local Nissan dealer in about four hours, and it comes with adjustable coilovers, custom rod end bearings, and special upper ball joints. Whats more, its all bolt-on components, so you can swap it out if you decide to sell your truck or give it up at the end of your lease.

Up next is a slew of upgrades from Mopar, which debuted new parts for the Dodge Durango SUV and Ram 1500 pick-up truck in Chicago. The Ram showed its stuff on the show floor with a 2-inch lift, huge wheels and tires, new fender flares in flat black, a cargo system up top, and a step-up at the side, plus all-weather mats in the cabin matched with Katskin leather upholstery.

And given Mopar is Chrysler's go-to go-faster division, you better believe Chicago brought a splash of extra performance stuff as well.

The Durango three-row SUV also gets leather upholstery (either in red or in black), as well as soft-touch surfaces throughout, plus carbon fiber trim. Outside, youll find a set of racing stripes in one of five colors, which really enhances the SUVs visual aggression.

And given Mopar is Chryslers go-to go-faster division, you better believe Chicago brought a splash of extra performance stuff as well, including lowered suspension bits for the Durango that cut 0.6 inches from the ride height, and a high-flow exhaust thats sure to add a nice throaty growl out back. The same goes for the Ram, which gets a new intake and exhaust, all in the name of extra aural pleasure and a few newfound ponies to boot.

Read the full story on the lift kit for the Nissan Titan., Mopar parts for the Dodge Durango., Mopar parts for the Dodge Ram 1500.

Toyota TRD Pro Lineup Gets Some Love

Toyota also got in on the off-roading fun in Chicago, offering up a variety of updates to its TRD-branded trucks and SUVs. Previewed prior to the show by a single pic depicting a dusty, snorkel-wearing Tacoma blasting through the dunes, Toyota brought along new gear for the Tundra and 4Runner as well.

Unfortunately, the Taco was the only model of the three to get the snorkel, which is great for enhancing river wading depth, but also is used to keep the intake away from the dirt and grit that has a habit of flying around when attacking the great outdoors.

Still, we like what we see from all three of these vehicles. The big-ticket items are the new 2.5-inch Fox shocks, which come with piggyback reservoirs in case the trails gets really rough. With the new parts installed, the Tacoma gets a 1-inch lift, plus specs like three rebound and five compression zones in front, and four rebound and seven compression zones in the rear.

Meanwhile, the Tundra gets a 2-inch lift and up to 2 inches of extra suspension travel as well. Rounding out the package are new skid plates and upgraded high-intensity headlights.

Of course, it bears mentioning that Toyota might have some hard-hitting competition just over the horizon. Toyota made waves updating the TRD Pro line, says our resident truck expert Mark McNabb, but none of them can compete with rivals like the F-150 Raptor, the Jeep Wrangler, the Chevy Colorado ZR2, or the upcoming Ford Ranger Raptor.

Ya hear that Toyota? Consider the gauntlet thrown.

Read our full story on the 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, 2019 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro and 2019 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro.

This wouldnt be a true TopSpeed Best of List if we didnt include at least one ridiculously fast machine, right?

Taking the honor this time around is a pumped-up Hyundai hatchback, which looks ready to roll and take on all challengers in the Touring Car Racing class of the Pirelli World Challenge race series this year. The story is that Hyundai is teaming up with Bryan Herta Autosport to sponsor a pair of racers in the popular series, and as such, this thing is nothing less than a full competition-spec racer. Its got a stripped-out interior, a full roll cage, enormous rear aero, slick-shod lightweight wheels, and a fire extinguisher system as well. Making it go is the same 2.0-liter four-banger youd find in the road car, but this time around, it comes with a re-tuned ECU and supporting mods, all of which conspire to crank up output to 350 ponies, far exceeding the 271 ponies you get in the top-trim road car. Routed through a six-speed sequential gearbox, you can bet this thing is an absolute rocket ship.

Unfortunately, Hyundai isnt offering the i30 N to stateside consumers, but hopefully its presence in the TCR class will inspire customers to explore the brands sportier side.

Read the full story on the Hyundai i30 N TCR Race Car.

Yeah, we know this isnt exactly a fresh debut, but we just had to include it in this list. Why you ask? Well, just look at it! The Subaru 360 is one of the six-star brands very first products and its 12 different shades of weird. For starters, its tiny, with dimensions thatll make a modern Mini double-check the nearest mirror. Its also got suicide doors and a curb weight of just 900 pounds. Hell, when it arrived in the States, it was even advertised as Cheap and Ugly.

We could go on and on about the quirkiness of the Subaru 360. Its a true oddball, and because of that, we love it.

Read the full story on the 1968 Subaru 360.

The Original Batmobile

Consider this an extra double bonus for ya. Straight out of the 60s, it doesnt get much more iconic than the original Batmobile. Designed by the legendary George Barris, this black-and-red crime fighter is actually an adaptation of a Ford concept car called Lincoln Futura, which was created ten years prior by Ghia of Italy. Fast forward to 1965, and as ABC was gearing up to shoot the show, it needed a proper car to do so. The network went to Barris to accomplish the task, but with only three weeks to complete the project, he decided to reuse the Futura, which he happened to purchase from Ford for $1, and the rest is history.

Stay tuned for a full written review on this awesome machine. Same TopSpeed time, same TopSpeed channel!

References

Read more Chicago Auto Show news.BMW and Audi have always enjoyed a healthy and respectful relationship. But that hasnt stopped both companies from throwing pot shots at each other. Remember the billboard wars the two companies engaged in about a decade ago? Apparently, old habits die hard because the German automakers are at it again with another billboard battle royal, this time in the North African country of Tunisia.

The billboard tit-for-tat between BMW and Audi goes all the way back to 2009

The billboard tit-for-tat between BMW and Audi goes all the way back to 2009 when Audi unveiled a billboard in Santa Monica, California featuring the then-new Audi A4 with the tagline, Your move, BMW. It didnt take long for the Bimmer dealership across the street to respond with a billboard of its own, featuring a BMW M3 that came with the response, Checkmate. Touche, right?

This brings us to the present day. In a reversal of roles, BMW lobbed the first potshot with a French language billboard in Tunisia featuring the automakers new headlamps and a tagline that translates to Its never too late to change. The billboard itself was a passive-aggressive shot at the Ennakl Automobiles dealer, which sells a host of models under the Volkswagen brand, including VWs, SEATs, Porsches, and Audis.

Like clockwork, Audi spent little time coming up with a response, doing so with a billboard that shows nothing more than a big LOOOL  notice the Os are actually Audis four rings logo?  and a message below that translates to We do not change a winning team.

Oh, snap.

The only thing that would make this billboard battle even more awesome if it turned into a triple threat Texas tornado match with Mercedes-Benz joining the fold

I dont expect a reaction to come from BMW because this is usually how billboard wars work. These things dont come cheap and theres always something to be said for a side to go first and respond when the other side responds. Thats bordering on pettiness. Besides, BMW can always point to its 2017 sales numbers to get the final word. The Bavarians moved 2.08 million cars in 2017, ahead of Audi, which sold 1.9 million cars in the same time period.

The only thing that would make this billboard battle even more awesome if it turned into a triple threat Texas tornado match with Mercedes-Benz joining the fold. The Silver Arrows actually outsold both BMW and Audi in 2017 with 2.29 million sold units.

Actually, thats all it needs to put it in its billboard.

References

Read more BMW news.

Read more Audi news.Jaguars decision to complete the D-Types original production run isnt the only significant thing to come out of the Retromobile show in Paris. Turns out, Fiat Chrysler Automobile also announced a similar initiative called Reloaded by Creators. The new sales service was created in part because FCA is now opening its books to sell a limited number of carefully selected classic cars, purchased by the service, and restored to their original condition. The proceeds generated by the sale of these classics will go to new scouting activities that will strengthen FCAs own historic collection.

FCA says that the Reloaded by Creators service will also set the stage for avid fans and collectors of classic Alfa Romeos, Fiats, Lancias, and Abarths to have opportunities at owning a collectible vehicle from any of these brands

FCA says that the Reloaded by Creators service will also set the stage for avid fans and collectors of classic Alfa Romeos, Fiats, Lancias, and Abarths to have opportunities at owning a collectible vehicle from any of these brands. Off the bat, there are five models that are being offered, including a 1991 Alfa Spider Spider, a 1973 Lancia Fulvia Coupe Montecarlo, a 1981 Pininfarina Spiderueropa, a 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ, and a 1959 Lancia Appia Coupe.

Of these give models, FCA describes the first three  the Alfa Spider, Lancia Fulvia, and Pininfarina Spiderueropa  as ultimate classics, a term the automaker uses for the last versions of their series to be built. Theyre also the most complete in terms of engineering and design. Meanwhile, the other two models for sale  the Alfa Romeo SZ and the Lancia Appia Coupe  are described as unusual custom cars that not everyone will know about. Take those words for what theyre worth.

Neither FCA nor its new Reloaded by Creators program have indicated the sale price of any of these classics. It did say that all five cars come complete with certificates of authenticity.

In case youre interested in any of the five FCA classics, a brief description of each model can be found below.

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider

Arguably the most famous Alfa Romeo convertible in history, the Spider is, without question, a crown jewel of any Alfa Romeo collector. This particular model belongs to the last version of the Spider to be built, which also happens to be the last series that Battista Pininfarina worked on in person. The model FCA is selling has been in its possession for almost 30 years, and was used for technical tests over the years.

1989 Alfa Romeo SZ

If the 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider isnt your thing, you can opt to get the 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. This model exclusively wore the Alfa Red color and was limited to just 1,000 units. The model in question also wears the date 15 September 1989, which presumably was the date it was built. It also traces its roots to the Balocco race circuit where it was used for testing and experiments.

1973 Lancia Fulvia Coupe Montecarlo

The Lancia Fulvia Coupe Montecarlo traces its roots to the Fulvia Coupe, which was launched in 1965 on a shortened version of the Fulvia sedan chassis. The Montecarlo special edition was created to celebrate Lancias victory in the 1972 Montecarlo Rally behind the effort of drivers Sandro Munari and Mario Manucci. This specific model doesnt have the most powerful of engines  it only has a 90-horsepower 1.3-liter unit  but it still has its original black registration plates. That has to count for something.

1959 Lancia Appia Coupe

The 2+2 coupe was designed by Pininfarina. It also holds the distinction of being one of the few models that were built on a chassis that Lancia used for its custom-built vehicles. While its not the same model, the Appia Coupe also has a special place in the annals of Italian cinema as the model driven by Sylva Koscina in Luigi Zampas film "The Traffic Policeman. Ive never heard of that movie, but Im sure it was good enough to have the Appia Coupe in it.

1981 Spidereuropa Pininfarina

We all know the current Fiat 124 Spider, but back when it was still in its first incarnation, it gave birth to the Pininfarina Spidereuropa. This particular is one of the first models of the Spidereuropa to be built by Pininfarina as a last ode to the OG 124 Sport Spider. It only has 10,000 kilometers in its odometer, a relatively small mileage considering its age and history.

References

Read more FCA news.To celebrate the 50th anniversary of New Zealands Southland legend Burt Munros greatest production land-speed record, the New Zealand Whisky Collection, along with John Munro (Burts son) have created a batch of limited edition whiskey called the Spirit of Munro. (The name was given to Munros record-setting motorcycle.)

This is good news for ardent fans of Whiskey, just like me. And if you are a motorcycle enthusiast also (why else would you be reading this here?), know that this is the best way you could spend your $184.71 on.

Burt Munro and his modified 1920 Indian Scout

Half a century ago, one man from a small town in New Zealand dreamt of setting a land speed record on a 1920 Indian Scout. In 1962 at the Bonneville Salt Flats, Burt Munros dream finally came true at the age of 68 at 184.71mph. A record that was unbeaten until July 16 at the El Mirage 2017 by none other than Burts nephew who drove the 2017 Spirit of Munro Scout. (Ran at 186.41 mph)

John Munro happened to meet NZ Whisky Collection operations manager Grant Finn at a private cask launch and tasting at the New Zealand Whisky Collection in Oamaru. The pair hit it off and soon came up with attributing the legend with a unique blend of whiskey carefully selected by themselves. The 18-year-old blend comprises 70% single malt and 30% mixed. DoubleWood is a descriptor as the whiskey has been aged in American oak (ex-bourbon) for 12 years and French oak (ex-red wine) for 6 years.

The Whiskey stats are also purposefully made to resemble Burts motorcycle and record numbers. The batch will contain only 953 bottles, which is exactly the cc rating of Burts bike. Each 500ml bottle will be priced at NZD$184.71 (USD $135), the same as Burts land-speed record of 184.71 mph. The concentration of whiskey is also brought down to 50 percent by volume to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the feat.

Out of the 953 bottles that will be made, the 35th whiskey bottle will be explicitly signed by John Munro insinuating the racing number used by Burt on his machine. This particular bottle will be auctioned off, and all proceeds from the auction will go to Riverton Coastguard of the Oreti Beach, a close place in Burts heart.

Indian Motorcycles also eventually showed support after much hesitation. But with John Munros relationship with the company, and the assurance of this being a one-off endeavor, Indian came aboard along with E Hayes Sons, Meccaspresso, Invercargill City Council, Venture Southland, and Bill Richardson Transport World.

Since last Friday, the NZ Whiskey guys have sold through the first 150 pre-orders in two days. However, they have now released a second batch of 100 pre-orders, which will ship only late March/ early April 2018.

Do not miss the rarity that is bottled in this piece of art. Go ahead and grab the art before it is too late. Treat yourself by satiating that ravenous hunger for motorcycle and good old whiskey! PeaceThe African Development Bank organised a seminar on Enhancing Knowledge on the Challenges and Opportunities of Developing and Implementing Staple Crop Processing Zones in Africa, from 12-14 February 2018 in Tunis.

Building on the analyses and findings of a Bank-led study on a sample of 10 African countries, the seminar aims at drawing lessons and good practices from various African experiences in designing and operating staple crop processing zones (SCPZ). More broadly, it will explore how SCPZs can contribute to achieving socio-economic development goals in Africa.

The analyses, conclusions and recommendations of the study will guide discussions among public sector decision makers on actions to remove barriers and promote agribusiness development on the continent.

In particular, the seminar will help in the development of national master plans for the agro-industrial sector. It should facilitate the conclusion of South-South cooperation agreements based on knowledge sharing, export and adaptation of good practices. It should also lead to the establishment of innovative public-private partnerships (PPPs) adapted to each context. Finally, the seminar is expected to stimulate the creation of agribusinesses with a view to generating employment and fostering strong and inclusive growth in Africa.

Agriculture in Africa provides employment to 61% of the population but only accounts for 25% of its GDP. This gap is mainly due to lack of modernization of the sector, which results in low productivity and reduce the avoidable impoverishment of millions of people. For example, although the continent is home to over 65% of the worlds arable land, it spends nearly US$35 billion annually on food imports.

In addition, Sub-Saharan countries suffer from huge post-harvest losses of up to 35-50% of total production for perishable agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables. The lack of processing of agricultural products is a heavy burden on Africa. This is the case in Cote dIvoire, the worlds largest producer of cocoa (40% of world production), which produces little chocolate. Similarly, Tunisia produces 180,000 tons of olive oil annually, but less than 10% of the production is packaged in the country, with the rest being exported in bulk.

Developing agro-industry, one of the priorities of the African Development Banks Feed Africa strategy, can provide answers to many development challenges facing the continent, particularly in terms of job creation, nutrition, rural development, market access and competitiveness.

The seminar will bring together about 100 representatives from Agriculture and Industry Ministries, particularly from Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cote dIvoire, Guinea, Mali, Mozambique, Tanzania and Togo.

A visit to the Bizerte Technopole is scheduled on the second day of the conference.

Background

With the approval of its pdf Feed Africa Strategy (7.93 MB) , the Bank has saddled itself with the onerous task of transforming the African agriculture. The transformation of the African agriculture sector is long overdue and it is the only way to unlock Africas enormous potential. The agricultural sector in Africa perfectly illustrates the importance of public policies in macroeconomic modelling and sustainable development. It unquestionably represents the sector that employs the most Africans, what Arthur Lewis referred to disguised unemployment.

Agriculture in Africa provides 61% of jobs but accounts for only 25% of GDP, a gap explained mainly by lack of modernization of the sector (little or no mechanization of the sector, poor utilization of inputs, lack of value addition etc.) which culminates into low productivity, consequently leading to impoverishment of the people that is avoidable. For example, despite the fact that over 65% of the worlds arable land is found in Africa, the continent annually spends nearly USD 35 billion in food imports to counter food insecurity.

This situation illustrates a context of a planned failure when one considers that the low level of efforts made for the development of the sector constitutes a missed opportunity for meeting the various development challenges targeted in the UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Banks High-5s, to name just a few. With the youngest population in the world and an unemployment rate exceeding 10%, Africa has no choice but to undertake the necessary transformation of its agricultural base, to reverse the current economic trends of the continent. This means that the agricultural sector must become the first investment area in the continent, hence the need for clear policies to attract investment from both the public and private sectors, including foreign investors.

The Banks Sector Strategy  Feeding Africa  has largely demonstrated the added value of investing on all fronts in agriculture. It estimates the need for funding at nearly US$400 billion for the next 10 years, and expects that a sustained investment of US$32 billion to US$40 billion per year would generate an estimated US$85 billion in revenue from 2025, an estimate that would continue to grow if one considers the incremental effect of knowledge gains. In practice, investment rates fall well below these estimates (about US$7 billion per year instead of 25 to 33), making resource mobilization crucial for successful transformation.

One of the key areas targeted by the Banks strategy is the development of agribusiness, which revitalization would provide answers to the many development challenges the continent is facing, among which are issues of job creation, nutrition, rural development, market access and competitiveness, etc. Unfortunately, agribusiness is still at an embryonic stage in Africa, particularly in sub-Saharan countries, which consequently suffer huge postharvest losses of up to an average of 35 to 50% of the total achievable production for perishable agricultural commodities such as fruits and vegetables, and between 15 and 25% for cereals.

The economic cost Africa pays due to the missing links in agricultural value chains such as the processing of agricultural products is challenging, as illustrated by Cote dIvoire, the worlds leading cocoa producer (accounting for 40% of world cocoa bean production), hardly produces chocolate. At the same time, the French giant Cemoi set up a plant in 2015 to produce between 2,000 and 3,000 tons of chocolate per year. In fact, only 33% of Cote dIvoires cocoa production undergoes a first transformation (crushing of beans) in the country.

In the same vein, Tunisia produces 180,000 tons of olive oil annually, of which less than 10% is packaged in Tunisia, the rest being exported in bulk. Cameroon produces about 2,000,000 tons of plantain, which is almost totally sold unprocessed or lost after harvest (40%). The Banks agricultural transformation goals target these important margins in the agricultural value chains, as well as the multiple job creation opportunities resulting from a dynamic agribusiness sector.

Among the agribusiness development initiatives, the Bank is promoting the development and implementation of SCPZs as a promising approach to inclusive and participatory financing, including marketing of agricultural products in the RMCs. SCPZs are Feed Africa Flagship initiatives which are agro-based spatial development initiatives, designed to concentrate agro-processing activities within areas of high agricultural potential to boost productivity and integrate production, processing and marketing of selected commodities consisting of geographical areas with a high concentration of companies involved in the range of activities of production, processing and marketing of agricultural products.

Experienced for decades elsewhere in the world including Africa (more particularly North Africa where some countries such as Tunisia and Morocco are well advanced), this approach is now generating renewed interest in the context of the implementation of the Feed Africa strategy where the need for financing is enormous. The seminar is planned in this context to be an opportunity for knowledge dissemination as well as a platform for exchange with and between RMCs on the challenges and necessary conditions for successful transformation proceeding from agribusiness revitalization.Cobalt is used to build lithium-ion batteries found in mobile technology. Much of it comes from Congo, where men, women, and children endure dangerous and unhealthy conditions to satisfy our hunger for new devices. It's time we paid attention.

Cobalt in Your Computer and Phone

You are probably reading this article on a tablet, smartphone, or laptop computer. If so, your device could very well contain cobalt from the Democratic Republic of Congo, an impoverished yet mineral-rich nation in central Africa, that provides 60 percent of the worlds cobalt. (The remaining 40 percent is sourced in smaller amounts from a number of other nations, including China, Canada, Russia, Australia and the Philippines.)

Cobalt is used to build rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, an integral part of the mobile technology that has become commonplace in recent years. Tech giants such as Apple and Samsung, as well as automakers like Tesla, GM, and BMW, which are starting to produce electric cars on a mass scale, have an insatiable appetite for cobalt. But unfortunately, this appetite comes at a high cost, both for humans and for the environment.

An excellent investigative piece by the Washington Post called The cobalt pipeline: From dangerous tunnels in Congo to consumers mobile tech explores the source of this valuable mineral that everyone relies on, yet knows little about.

Lithium-ion batteries were supposed to be different from the dirty, toxic technologies of the past. Lighter and packing more energy than conventional lead-acid batteries, these cobalt-rich batteries are seen as green. They are essential to plans for one day moving beyond smog-belching gasoline engines. Already these batteries have defined the worlds tech devices.

Smartphones would not fit in pockets without them. Laptops would not fit on laps. Electric vehicles would be impractical. In many ways, the current Silicon Valley gold rush  from mobile devices to driverless cars  is built on the power of lithium-ion batteries.

Child Labor and Human Rights Abuses

What The Post found is an industry thats heavily reliant on artisanal miners or creuseurs, as theyre called in French. These men do not work for industrial mining firms, but rather dig independently, anywhere they may find minerals, under roads and railways, in backyards, sometimes under their own homes. It is dangerous work that often results in injury, collapsed tunnels, and fires. The miners earn between $2 and $3 per day by selling their haul at a local minerals market.

At the same time, in cobalt-producing regions of Congo, child laborers are being employed, women are spending their days washing minerals, and babies are being born with shocking, rarely-seen birth defects.

Fairphone / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-NC 2.0

Tech Companies Don't Follow Through

All of the cobalt goes directly to a single Chinese-owned company, Congo DongFang Mining, which ships the mineral to China, refines it, and sells it to large battery cathode makers. These, in turn, sell cathodes to battery makers that supply major tech companies.

In 2010, the United States passed a law requiring American companies to source four specific minerals  tin, copper, tungsten, and gold  from Congolese mines that are free from militia control. While this is seen as an attempt to prevent human rights abuses, cobalt has never been added to the list. Analyst Simon Moores thinks this is because any crimp in the cobalt supply chain would devastate companies. Essentially its too valuable a mineral on which to place any limitations:

While cobalt mining is not thought to be funding wars, many activists and some industry analysts say cobalt miners could benefit from the laws protection from exploitation and human rights abuses. The law forces companies to attempt to trace their supply chains and opens up the entire route to inspection by independent auditors.

Companies dont want to follow through with promises of improved transparency or ethical sourcing because it comes at a higher cost. Cobalt sourced from artisanal miners is far cheaper than that produced by industrial mines. Companies do not have to pay miners salaries or fund the operations of a large-scale mine. With cheap cobalt flooding the market, some international traders canceled contracts for industrial ores, opting to scoop up artisanal ones.

Manufacturers dont have satisfactory answers. Tesla has yet to send someone to Congo, after promising months ago to send one of our guys there. Amazon, whose Kindles use Congolese cobalt, declined to comment. LG Chem, a battery supplier to GM and Ford, says its cobalt comes from New Caledonia, despite the suspicious fact that LG Chem consumes more cobalt than the entire nation of New Caledonia produces, according to analysts and publicly available data.

Apple says it supports the addition of cobalt to the 2010 anti-conflict minerals law and has promised to treat cobalt as if it were a conflict mineral, requiring all refiners to provide outside supply-chain audits and conduct risk assessments, starting next year.

Lara Smith works for a Johannesburg consultant group that helps mining companies clarify their supply chain. She points out that companies claiming ignorance is ridiculous: Because if they wanted to understand, they could understand. They dont.

The other question to be asking is what our responsibility is, as consumers of the products that drive demand for cobalt. Does an upgrade to the newest Apple product seem less appealing, knowing the human cost involved?

Many analysts do believe these risks can be managed, and perhaps they can; but it will require a complete overhaul of a system that is already deeply entrenched, and thats a very hard thing to do. In the meantime, while I continue using my old iPhone 4s until it dies, Ive got my fingers crossed that the Fairphone, made with fair trade-certified minerals, will soon be available in North America.Treehugger and our third-party partners use cookies and process personal data like unique identifiers based on your consent to store and/or access information on a device, display personalized ads and for content measurement, audience insight, and product development. To change or withdraw your consent choices for Treehugger.com, including your right to object where legitimate interest is used, click below. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. List of Partners (vendors)Great, thank you guys so much! Of course, we could always save some money by staying OVS, or one less day, but staying a week on the beach seems heavenly. Flights from Dallas Love Field on Southwest seem to price anywhere between 400- 450 roundtrip, although the September flights havent been published yet. American Airlines has been at least $700- and thats not even non-stop!

Ive looked on the typical booking sites, and the prices quoted to me do seem to be the best. I will say that the quotes I have gotten are from one of the travel agents recommended here. Would it be terrible if I contacted the other 2 to see if they can beat it? So far nothing has been done except for price quoting, and I have until Wednesday to decide. Ive only used a TA once before (not a great experience) so Ive no idea of the etiquette about price quoting! I dont want to step on any toes, but Im also pretty frugal, lol.As an avid travle to Jamaica now raising an 11 yr old; I'd tell them not to leave the beach are of the hotel. That's more about a parenting concern then Jamaica specific concerns. I wouldn;t have them go to M'ville alone-more about the drunken tourist than anything else. Girls and boys will be approached by males/females looking to "party" and yes there will be hustlers trying to sell stuff. Just tell them no thanks and move on respectfully.

You may want to buy two local phones (you/them). You can get each for under $35 with minutes for calls which will work for local and call home if needed. at least you will have the security of being able to get in concact with no issues. also good if you plan to let them go for walks alone.

PEACE!We always fly Alaska and have never experienced that (yet). Maybe its because we book so far out. Theres always been a seat chart for us to choose from. This time (like 4 times before), we will be using miles, which is probably the lowest class for them, lol. They wont be making any money off of us. The flights just became open the other day so it will be interesting choosing seats when that pops up.

Although when all that is said and done, our flight time, seats etc will probably change 2-3 times before our actual take-off date so there will be no control over that. We are at their mercy. Happens every time. Last time we had a non-stop coming home and ended up with 3 flights! It was not fun at all. Happened in real time at the airport.

Edited: 3 years agoWe have three trips to Mexico booked for this winter with Alaska. We have had seven changes to our flights so far. One flight to Zih now requires an overnight both ways. Seems to be some confusion on their part with seat selection chart, main cabin and Premium. We flew into Loreto yesterday and were suppose to have Premium Class seating and after boarding we were told there was no Premium seating on the aircraft...? So no priority boarding or drinks. We were in row six,bulkhead which does have storage space in front of seat. Also we were checking our other flights where we do have seat assignment but on those flights when we looked at the seating chart it showed that all the seats on those flights where still available...? Alaska seems to be having some problems and a shortage of pilots.-:- Message from Tripadvisor staff -:-

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You could get away with 2WD, but you would need to either hire a 4WD in some places, or take day tours. 4WD would be much better though.

You would need to do this between April and October, or even better between May and September.

You could cover Margaret River, Perth, up the west Coast, including Ningaloo Reef, Karijini NP, Broome., Kimberlies, Katherine, Kakadu, Litchfield NP, Darwin, The Centre and more, and then across to Queensland.Re: How many days recommend with one year old?

3. Re: How many days recommend with one year old?

I could easily spend a week in Sydney and with a little one, you need to take it slowly, but July is not the week I would pick for a full seven days there, being middle of our winter.

Where else are you considering?

Cheers.Hi. You should be in for a great road trip. If possible leave mid August just to allow for better weather in the south.

Crossing The Nullarbor is a terrific drive- sure some big driving stretches but I found there was enough to see.

Maps and information here is excellent:

Plus this resource:

From Norseman I suggest you go north a bit to spend a few days around Kalgoorlie- head to Gwalia,Lake Ballard and Menzies.

Then onto Perth.

For Wildflowers August is best north of Perth then September south so leave Albany and Esperance until your return journey.

From Kalgoorlie it might be possible to see Wildflowers in the Wheatbelt in August.

My go- to resource for Wildflowers is the booklet to download here:

Ideas for Albany/Denmark/Walpole:

And if you are walkers theres fabulous walks around Albany where you might spot orchids and flowers-

Weather is changeable on the south coast so be flexible with day to day itinerary.

From Albany you might enjoy staying a night in the Stirling Ranges and take a Wildflower Walk;

Then I suggest you look at staying a night in Hopetoun so you can explore parts of the Fitzgerald River NP. Its a biodiversity wilderness area and the nearby Ravensthorpe Wildflower show at the end of September is highly regarded by Wildflower enthusiasts.

Then onto Esperance for more national parks ( might be worth getting a holiday Park Pass)

North again to Norseman and home. So apart from the Nullarbor its a loop trip.

Edited: 3 years agoLlanos de Cortez waterfall is a great idea. Maybe have swimsuit handy or change of clothes/towel as you are allowed to get wet there. I did however just read a comment under another question on the forum that said access to the waterfall is closed- so maybe do some checking on that first.

Otherwise

Head the 25/30 minutes to Playa Panama or Playa Hermosa (next to Panama).

Panama: go to El Mangroove hotel for breakfast. Buffet or al a carte. You could pretty much hang there until its time to go back to LIR. This beautiful chill hotel is right on the beach and the restaurants are open air and face the pool and beach. Just tell the guard at the gate you are going there to have breakfast (or lunch)and hell let you in.

Hermosa: Im not sure about breakfast, but for early lunch go settle in at Aqua Sport. Its a casual spot for food and beverage right there on the sand. No problem if you want to sit there for a few hours. Try the Casado- its a local Costa Rican meal. Aqua Sport is one of our favorite places.

Another breakfast option is the German bakery which is on the way to Panama/Hermosa from LIR.

Have a great trip!THe bus from Hanoi to Luang Prabang is scheduled to take 18 hours, though it can be easily 24 hours. That would be too long for me, so I decided to fly.

However, you could split the journey into smaller sections.

Either head from Hanoi direclty to the border crossing Dien Bien Phu. Not sure if there are any interesting places to stop betwen these places. One other option could be a detour, thta offers you a nice stop in Sapa, where you can do a trek or enjoying the scenery outside of Sapa. From Sapa there is a bus to the border that takes around 8 hours.

When crossing the border into Laos head to Muang Khuau. Here you have some options. While it is still possible tkae the slow boat from Muang Khuau to Muang Ngoi, which is a great village where you can easily spend a few days, enjiyig some nice walks or enjoying the laid back atmosphere. It is still one of my favourite places I have been to. Here are some photos

From Muang Ngoi take the one hour boat ride to Nong Khiaw, where you can stay for a few days, or continue directly to Luang Prabang.

I planned that journey the other way around back in 2014, but I was somehow unable to leave LP (I love that town) and flew to Hanoi instead.

The other option from Muang Khuau is taking the bus to Oudam Xai and then to LP. But as I like boat rides, the first option would my prefered option as you can include some lovely rural places in laos, that should not be missed when visiting Laos. It is certainly longer than flying, and you can easily spend longer than a week for that journey (without time for LP).

In regards of flying, you could fly to Hanoi with Emirates or Ethihad and stop in the Middle East. However, I would actually prefer arriving in SEA asap, as I just love the area. Maybe consider heading to Bangkok as you hub (I enjoyed my Thai Airways flights), and you can easily travel to and from Hanoi & Laos. Or you check if VIetnam Airlines has a nice offer available, and fly directly to Hanoi from London.

Hope this helps as a starter

Edited: 3 years agoGreetings everyone

I would like some advice please. Would be great if you can point me in the right direction.

I wish to travel to Vietnam this year from London and see the wonders it has to offer. I have been advised to visit Cambodia whilst there. I am a single traveler and the way I see it is that I would travel to either Vietnam or Cambodia first by direct flight. Then book all recommended tours through a reputable company whilst over there.

I want to do all tours in a group, preferably the same group throughout my visit to both Vietnam and Cambodia (if possible). Book any internal flights whilst over there or should I book this in uk! I want to have my own hotel room whilst over there and not be penalised for not having two to a room. I can only get away for a maximum of 14 days.

Any advise would be greatly appreciated as I want to make sure that my once in a lifetime trip is safe as well as being a success.I am very surprised to read above that mabei does not consider a 14 day railpass worth while. I am sure with his experience he must be right but you are traveling long distances and we have found on our many trips to Japan that having the JR pass gives us heaps of flexibility. Look at the 21 day pass and take the train from Tokyo to Hiroshima, i think you aren't spending enough time in Kyoto and too much time in Tokyo. We love Tokyo but there are heaps of great places out of the capital. We are going next month and are doing the bus - Kanazawa to Takayama with Shirakawago for a few hours during the day. If you do take the 21 day pass maybe consider

Hiroshima to Kurashiki overnight. Then to Himeji for a few hours and get the fast train to Kinosaki Onsen from there go back to Kyoto where I think you need a minimum of 3 FULL days then do Kanazawa and Takayama. Go to Matsumoto if you really want to but consider instead going from Takayama to Tsumago and Magome and the 8km walk between these really quaint towns. From there go to Kawaguchiko and then Tokyo. Doing more trips by train. Just a few suggestions we have been to Japan 20 times these are places we love.Hi,

I am planning a trip to stay with some family in Brooklyn in August and would like some advice for some fun things to do.

I have been to NYC previously and done a lot of the tourist attractions apart from Coney Island (I have only been at the holiday season)

My cousin and his wife work during the week and are taking me on a speakeasy tour and some other things planned.

With me being out and about on my own I would love any advice on what to do, where to eat and what is fun to do in the city in the sun? I live Instagram and blog searching so have found spots like poco, jacks wife freda and Drybar! :)

(It has been 4 years past in December since I have been) Any hell would be greatly appreciated :DEducation has always been vital to the future of society. That is why tens of thousands of students apply to colleges or universities each year. Most will consider nearby institutions and others will choose a learning centre based on its ranking. When it comes to university ranking in Kenya, a wide range of factors are taken into consideration. This creates a competitive environment where a university that ranks top in a particular year is not guaranteed the same position one year down the line.

Image: wikipedia.org

Source: UGC

When compiling a list of University ranking in Kenya, most researchers consider an institutions academic research performance and regional and global reputations. They also look at the teaching and employability after graduating from that educational facility. As a student, you can use the rankings to explore your higher education options and compare the key factors of the institutions research missions.

University ranking in Kenya  List of the best universities

Here are the top Kenyan universities based on the recent rankings by 4ICU.org:

1. University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi (UoN) is the oldest and largest university in Kenya. Initially, UoN was a higher education institution mandated to train the needs of Kenyas workforce. Over the years, it has grown and developed to be a leading centre of excellence in East Africa.

UoN ranks higher among public universities in Kenya because of its specialist programmes in technology, arts, humanities, social sciences, sciences, and applied sciences. It is one of the few learning institutions in the country that offer about 900 academic degree programmes.

READ ALSO: Top 50 universities in Africa that are ranked highly worldwide

2. Kenyatta University

Kenyatta University (KU) is one of the best universities in Kenya. After it got its full university status in 1985, KU became one of the leading public research universities in the country. The institution now offers high-quality programmes that attract students who wish to become competitive on a global scale.

Furthermore, the university continues to establish meaningful links with top industrial partners to offer guidance on practical and professional requirements needed to build the best programmes at the institution. That has helped to expose students to employment opportunities upon graduation.

3. Riara University

Riara University is one of the best private universities in Kenya that was born out of a sincere desire to provide a holistic approach in higher education in 1974.

The prestigious university is uniquely positioned to implement creative approaches via academia collaboration to alter students' ideologies to think globally. Its concept goes beyond the classroom and syllabus-based learning as it reaches out to provide stimulation and motivation for self-development and capacity for life-long education.

Riara University is one of the best private universities in Kenya that was born out of a sincere desire to provide a holistic approach in higher education in 1974. Photo: Riara University.

Source: UGC

It is located on Mbagathi Way, Nairobi. You can reach them through phone number (+254) 703 038 000) or email: info@riarauniversity.ac.ke or admissions@riarauniversity.ac.ke.

Address: Mbagathi Way P.O. Box 49940  00100, For more information regarding Riara University click here.

4. Strathmore University

Strathmore University (SU) is one of the best private universities in Kenya. Established in 1961, SU has been a top provider of all-rounded education in select disciplines of IT, management science, and computer science. The institution uses a triple-helix research cooperation model that helps new students to get more opportunities in research. Strathmore University prides itself on having the best business school in the country.

5. Moi University

Image: mu.ac.ke

Source: UGC

Moi University (MU) is a public university established in 1984. Over the years, it has been a top learning institution that nurtures innovation and talent in the areas of technology, science, and development.

The university prides itself on offering quality research, training, and teaching. It achieves that by creating a conducive working and learning environment. MU is one of the best centres of excellence based on university ranking in Kenya.

6. Egerton University

Egerton University is a chartered public university and the oldest in the country. Founded in 1939 as an agricultural college, it has maintained the position for many decades as the premier Agricultural public University in Kenya.

The institution has also broadened its course list to other areas of teaching and research. Some of these include applied sciences, natural resources, computer science, education, engineering, business studies, and medical sciences, among others.

7.Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) is a leading university of global excellence. It is among the best in research, training, entrepreneurship for development, and innovation. Since its establishment as a university in 1994, JKUAT has become a leader in higher education. Today, it plays an active role in the development of technology and agriculture in the country.

8. Mount Kenya University

Mount Kenya University (MKU) is one of the leading private universities inclined towards science and technology. Since its establishment, MKU has been among the top learning institutions that have promoted excellence in teaching and research. It has helped students to engage in innovative activities that have gone towards discovering and exploiting new knowledge for social and economic development.

9. United States International University-Africa

United States International University-Africa (USIU) is one of the many accredited universities in Kenya. It was initially formed to offer full degree programs in Business Administration, Psychology, and International Relations.

Over the years, the learning institution has broadened to other areas of education, including humanities, social sciences, technology, and health sciences. USIU has a vision of being a premier institution of academic excellence with a global perspective.

READ ALSO: Top international universities with campuses in Kenya

10. Technical University of Kenya

Technical University of Kenya (TU-K) is one of the oldest public technical universities in the country. Before it became TU-K in 2012, the institution was formerly known as the Kenya Polytechnic University College. Its mandate is to offer higher education and research in technology.

Today, TU-K is one of the best universities that offer science, technology, engineering, and architecture courses. Students can enrol for certificate, diploma, and bachelors degree programmes.

11. Africa Nazarene University

Africa Nazarene University (ANU) is an accredited private Christian university. Established in 1994, ANU has grown to be a reputable institution of higher education known for its excellence in teaching, pioneering spirit, service to the community, and character formation. The institution strives to be the learning centre of choice for students that desire to gain Christ-cantered education.

12. St. Paul's University

Image: spu.ac.ke

Source: UGC

St. Pauls University (SPU) is another Christian institution of higher education that makes up this list of Kenyan university ranking. It is an ecumenical learning centre committed to teaching and research. SPU helps to mentor students and provide them with research opportunities at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The goal is to inspire all scholars to advance their aspirations and skills in their respective academic areas.

13. Murang'a University of Technology

Murang'a University of Technology (MUT) is a public university that advances knowledge and learning in the fields of science and technology. It is one of the leading educational institutions in research, training, and technological innovation.

MUT has the mandate of providing relevant, accessible, and quality education through teaching, learning, training, innovation, consultancy, research, and community outreach. Students can enrol for a degree, diploma, certificate, and Craft courses in the fields of engineering, IT, business, pure and applied sciences, computing, and more.

14. Catholic University of Eastern Africa

Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) is a private Christian university in Kenya. Founded in 1984, it began as a graduate school of theology that offered two-year Licentiate/MA programmes in Theology. Over the years, it has expanded to become a centre of excellence in teaching, research, and learning.

READ ALSO: List of universities that offer engineering courses in Kenya

CUEA is today a leading educational institution that offers doctorate, masters, undergraduate degree, diploma, and certificate courses in canon law, social justice, ethics, and regional integration and development.

15. Kenya Methodist University

Kenya Methodist University (KeMU) is one of the many chartered Christian universities in the country. It was officially authorised to operate as a private institution of higher education in 1997.

Initially, its conception was to set up an educational facility that would respond to the needs of Kenyans and answer to the most demanding areas of the labour force. Since then, KeMU has been at the forefront of transforming society by offering high-quality education that promotes excellence in research, scholarship, and selfless service.

16. KCA University

KCA University (KCAU) is one of the premier business universities in Kenya. It offers a diverse selection of professional and competitive academic programmes. The programmes are geared towards producing world-class graduates committed to excellence and integrity.

KCAU is one of the few universities that offer students an opportunity to complete their degree programmes faster. Students get exceptions for their previous studies in academic courses approved by its senate.

Image: kca.ac.ke

Source: UGC

17. Daystar University

Daystar University is an institution of higher learning that offers undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma programmes. It has been among the leading universities in the country in developing professionals, managers, and researchers to be effective in society. As a centre of excellence, Daystar uses highly qualified faculty to offer personalised training to students.

18. Maseno University

Maseno University is a public university established by an Act of Parliament in 1991. From its humble beginnings as a government training institute, Maseno University has gone on to become a modern institution of higher education committed to advanced teaching, learning, research, and development. It offers many programmes that respond to the ever-emerging socio-economic, technological, and innovation needs of the country.

19. Kibabii University

Kibabii University (KIBU) is an institution of higher learning established in 2007. KIBU has the goal of promoting science, technology, and innovation as factors that can sustain the human race and promote development. It achieves its objectives by offering quality teaching, training, research, scholarships, outreach programmes, and consultancy. KIBU is one of the best universities for students who want to do computing, informatics, social sciences, business, and economics courses.

READ ALSO: List of the best universities to study law in Kenya

20. University of Eastern Africa, Baraton

The University of Eastern Africa, Baraton (UEAB) is an accredited private Christian university. It began its classes in 1978 in temporary farm structures of the then Baraton Animal Husbandry Research Station. Over the years, it has become one of the leading educational centres in offering technology, nursing, education, social sciences, and humanities courses. UEAB is also one of the best institutions for learning biological, agricultural, theology, and religious studies.

21. Kisii University

Kisii University (KSU) is a public institution of higher education. Founded in 2007, it offers courses that promote social welfare and encourage research. The academic centre of excellence trains students to meet the development needs of the country and those of the international labour market. Students can enrol for different programmes like law, health sciences, arts, and social sciences.

The University of Nairobi is the top institution of higher education, according to University ranking in Kenya. By ranking these educational centres, this gives students a tried and tested outlet that can enable them to make decisions on their next study destination. Despite their importance, rankings are an arbitrary arrangement. They are indicators all aimed at labelling what people perceive as an excellent educational institution.

READ ALSO: A list of all the private universities in Kenya

Source: Tuko- Jubilee's Secretary General said it was a miracle Kenya did not descend into civil strife since independence

- He said this in the context of the opposition carrying out activities, some controversial, against the government

- Since the 2017 election, the opposition purposely carried out activities contrary to the Constitution including the controversial swearing in of Raila Odinga as the people's president

- In swift and firm responses, the govt acted against opposition members; and among other things, withdrew their security and govt issued vehicles, arrested some of them and announced repossession of their passports

Raphael Tuju, the Jubilee Party Secretary General and docket-less cabinet secretary nominee, was of the sentiment that Kenya was lucky to have the kind of political climate it has had since independence.

TUKO.co.ke reliably learnt that Tuju said the country was lucky not to have descended into a civil war following several incidences of political hostility between the government and the opposition.

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READ ALSO: Mwanahabari wa NTV ahofia maisha yake, ataja anayedai wanataka kumwangamiza

Speaking on BBC'S Hard Talk on Thursday, February 8, Tuju further said Kenya is not a nation state but 42 different nationalities unlike several other countries in the west.

Raphael Tuju during a past presser. Photo: Citizen TV

READ ALSO: We don't need you here - police turn away Orengo, Aladwa and Wanjigi from DCI headquarters

"You have to understand this country a little bit more. We're not a nation state, we're 42 different nationalities. Its not like a lot of countries in the west. We're trying to forge a country out of a geographical phenomenon. This is a country with a lot of potential to break into civil strife, a civil war and its'a miracle we've survived over 50 years without having a major breakdown of law' and law and order," said Tujus

According to prior TUKO.co.ke reports, between 2017 and 2018, the opposition fought the government on several fronts after claiming the August and October 2017 elections were rigged and a sham in favour of President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Several demonstrations were led by the National Super Alliance and tens of supporters' lives lost as police battled them on the streets. They demonstrated against the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, demanding their conditions be met or there would be no repeat presidential election on October 26.

READ ALSO: Embattled Miguna Miguna receives hero's welcome in Canada

NASA swore in Raila as the people's president in front of thousands of people at the Uhuru Park grounds on January 30. Photo: TUKO.co.ke

READ ALSO: Murkomen takes a swipe at Maraga for commenting on governments disobedience of court orders

NASA then called for the boycott of the October 26 election and the voter turn out was below average especially after the opposition withdrew its candidates from the race, claiming the outcome was pre-determined.

They also called for the boycott of several companies and services sympathetic to the Jubilee government after refusing the outcome of the October 26 poll.

NASA went ahead and begun setting up People's Assemblies in counties to push for change in the country, assemblies that ended up being considered illegal by the government because they were not provided for in the Constitution.

In 2018, NASA went ahead and swore in opposition leader Raila Odinga as the people's president on Tuesday, January 30, at the historic Uhuru Park grounds in front of thousands of people. This was after they said President Uhuru was illegitimately in office and there was no president in Kenya.

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Miguna Miguna (l) was deported and MP TJ Kajwang (r) was arrested and released on bond. They both administered the oath of office of the president to Raila Odinga. Photo: TUKO.co.ke

READ ALSO: Nyeri governor calls for dialogue between Uhuru and Raila

They swore him in with results from their parallel tallying center from the August 8 poll, saying Jubilee and the IEBC colluded to give Uhuru a win.

In swift responses, the government arrested several opposition legislators and deported Miguna Miguna, one of two people who administered the oath of office of the president to Raila Odinga.

The government also withdrew the security and government issued vehicles of several opposition legislators with the threat to impound those in possession of all NASA leaders in Parliament.

Some opposition members' passports were also frozen with plans in place to repossess several passports in legislators' hands.

READ ALSO: Mombasa Deputy governor survives terrible road accident

Chief Justice David Maraga on the day he took oath of office in front of President Uhuru Kenyatta. Photo: PSCU

The latest narrative by Jubilee, according to prior TUKO.co.ke reports, was that the Judiciary, led by Chief Justice David Maraga, is biased in favour of the opposition despite being expected to uphold fidelity of the law.

These sentiments were uttered by Tuju, Nyeri Town MP Wambugu Ngunjiri and Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen.

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Source: Tuko Breaking News- Some Mount Kenya leaders joined the line of concerned parties calling for dialogue between President Uhuru and opposition leader Raila Odinga

- Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthoki Njuki said the two should talk if only to save Kenya from burning

- Prior to this, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga told Uhuru and Raila to stop playing with Kenyans' lives and put the nation first

A second governor from the Jubilee's Mount Kenya stronghold called on President Uhuru Kenyatta and opposition leader Raila Odinga to meet for dialogue and end the political stalemate in the country.

TUKO.co.ke reliably learnt that Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki said this would be the only way to forge unity in the country.

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READ ALSO: Polisi wamkamata wakili wa Miguna Miguna

According to a report by NTV on Sunday, February 11, Njuki said that it was only these talks that would prevent Kenya from burning. He, however, insisted that these talks not be on power sharing because this was already decided on by the electorate but on an agenda that holds the fabric of Kenya together.

Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki called on Uhuru and Raila to hold talks that will prevent Kenya from burning. Photo: Daily Nation.

READ ALSO: Miguna sends a chilling message to Jubilee party urging supporters to stand up against it

"For Kenya to not burn, President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga must talk. It is good to teach Kenyans how to obey the law bcause without it, we become a banana republic. If the law says the candidate with the most votes becomes the president, you as the election loser must respect that,

"If the law says that only one president-elect can be sworn in, let there be one. You go back to the drawing board and work on your strategy so that when you win, you will also be sworn in. You can't be threatening Kenyans using force, propaganda and drama so that you can get an opportunity to get into government," said Njuki.

According to prior TUKO.co.ke reports, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga also called on President Uhuru and Raila to hold talks, saying their political rivalry could end up jeopardizing Kenyans' lives.

READ ALSO: High Court stops Matiangi Gazette Notice that outlawed NRM

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga told President Uhuru and Raila to stop playing with the lives of Kenyans and hold talks. Photo: Daily Nation.

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Speaking on Wednesday, February 7, Kahiga said the government should be magnanimous and put the nation first by putting aside its differences with the opposition and hold talks.

"Remember there are 40 million Kenyans whose lives may be jeopardized by a mere single action.We want to humbly request that at the end of it all when nothing else seems not to work,dialogue will be the answer. Lets fight but beyond everything else, let us stop playing this power game with the lives of 40 million Kenyans," said Kahiga.

Several concerned parties, including foreign envoys and the church, called on President Uhuru and Raila to talk- especially after the opposition National Super Alliance held a swearing in ceremony for Raila Odinga as the people's president.

READ ALSO: You are both wrong - Church leaders tell Jubilee and NASA

Raila and his opposition cronies said they did not recognise Uhuru's legitimacy in office because he didn't win in a democratic election, he was rigged in. Photo: Nation.

READ ALSO: I am ready for 2022 presidency - Alfred Mutua after election petition victory

The opposition said they did not recognise Uhuru's legitimacy in office, claiming he won the 2017 elections which were rigged and were a sham in his favour.

Key among those calling for dialogue was the United States government and 10 other envoys who called on Raila to recognise Uhuru as president but Raila claimed President Uhuru was in business with the envoys and vowed to never recognise Uhuru's presidency.

Deputy President William Ruto was also quoted saying Jubilee was ready to hold talks with NASA but not on electoral reforms as they wanted, only on a development agenda for Kenya.

To this effect, Raila Odinga went as far as demanding another election be held in August 2018 because no election was democratic in 2017.

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Source: Tuko- Moses Kuria claimed that foreign envoys intended on taking NASA leaders to the ICC

- He also said he would be part of those welcoming the ICC with a 2 gun salute to pick up the co-leaders

- His sentiments came after 11 envoys issued a statement urging Raila Odinga to recognise President Uhuru's legitimacy in office for the sake of the country

- Raila Odinga said he will never recognise Uhuru's legitimacy in office and went ahead to demand for fresh elections in August 2018

Vocal Gatundu South Member of Parliament Moses Kuria took to social media to claim that foreign envoys intended on taking the National Super Alliance co-leaders to the International Criminal Court but were just being coy and secretive about it.

In a social media post seen by TUKO.co.ke on Monday, February 12, Kuria said Raila and his co-leaders misunderstood a statement from foreign envoys calling on them to recognise President Uhuru Kenyatta's legitimacy in office to end the political stalemate in Kenya.

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READ ALSO: Polisi wamkamata wakili wa Miguna Miguna

"I don't think Raila and his NASA sisters understood the statement from foreign envoys. It was a 'diplospeak' version of asking them to be ready for the ICC. It was a thinly veiled way of telling them they will be treated as war criminals. This time we will welcome the ICC with a 21 gun salute and allocate them a whole floor at KICC for processing documents," said Kuria.

Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria. Photo: Facebook/Moses Kuria

READ ALSO: You are both wrong - Church leaders tell Jubilee and NASA

According to prior TUKO.co.ke reports, 11 foreign envoys co-issued the statement on Saturday, February 10, urging Raila to recognise Uhuru's presidency.

"The opposition leaders need to accept that Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto are the legitimately elected president and deputy president of the Republic of Kenya. The threats and extra-constitutional measures being adopted by the opposition will not help them get to power. Only dialogue can help forge the country forward," read the statement in part.

Raila Odinga responded to the envoys, telling them he will never recognise President Uhuru's legitimacy in office.

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NASA co-leaders (l-r) Moses Wetangula, Raila Odinga, Kalonzo Musyoka and Musalia Mudavadi during a past opposition rally. Photo: Facebook/NASA Coalition.

READ ALSO: On going crackdown on NASA leaders to continue - Boinnet

He also accused the envoys of rubber stamping a fraudulent elections in 2017, saying they were not interested in a free, fair and credible electoral process.

"We want to tell them in simple terms that Kenya is an independent country. Kenyan problems will be resolved by the Kenyan people. We do not need any advice from America or from the British High Commission. We will have our own issues addressed by ourselves," said Raila.

Recently, Raila Odinga said a fresh round of elections must be held in August 2018, one that would create a people's convention to deliberate on regional issues.

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Source: Tuko-Controversial lawyer and former gubernatorial candidate, Miguna Miguna has began court proceedings to be allowed back into the country

- Miguna filed the case through his lawyer, Nelson Havi who swore an affidavit on Miguna's behalf

- The lawyer was dramatically deported to Canada on Tuesday, February 6 five days after his arrest at his Runda home

- He was arrested for illegally administering an oath to Raila Odinga and being a leader of an outlawed group

- The government however deported him on claims that he was in the country illegally and posed danger to national security

Days after his deportation, self proclaimed leader of the outlawed National Resistance Movement (NRM), Miguna Miguna has begun court procedures to see him allowed back in Kenya.

The former gubernatorial candidate also filed a suit seeking reinstatement of his Kenyan passport and citizenship.

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READ ALSO: Wakili wa Miguna Miguna akamatwa na polisi

Miguna filed the suit on Monday, February 12 through his lawyer, Nelson Havi who also swore an affidavit on Miguna's behalf.

Miguna begins process to fight his return to Kenya after deportation. Photo:NASA Coalition/ Facebook

READ ALSO: Condemning Raila will lead to more radicalisation- Raila's adviser tells foreign envoys

An earlier report by TUKO.co.ke indicated that Miguna was forced into a KLM connection flight to Canada on the night of Tuesday, February 6 against his wish

While recounting his ordeal with the police before he was deported, Miguna claimed that the hasty decision was arrived at after his Canadian passport was confiscated.

In their defense, the government through Interior Cabinet Secretary, Fred Matiangi claimed that Miguna was in the country illegally and his presence in Kenya was contrary to National interest

READ ALSO: Miguna explains how he wore slippers on his forced flight to Canada

The fiery lawyer was deported five days after a dramatic arrest at his Runda home on Tuesday, February 2.

Miguna was arrested on allegations of having issued an illegal oath to National Super Alliance (NASA) leader, Raila Odinga on Tuesday January 30

This was followed by a series of events including court orders to release him on KSh 50,000 cash bail and presenting Miguna in court were defied by the DCI and DPP.

He was later presented at a Kajiado court where he declined taking a plea demanding to be brought back to Nairobi where his case was scheduled to take place.

ALSO WATCH: Kenyans react to Miguna Miguna's deportation on TUKO tv

Source: Tuko Newspaper- Miguna Miguna launched yet another scathing attack at Boni Khalwale on February 12

- The former Kakamega Senator was accused by the firebrand Miguna of being a certified coward

- Miguna bid the former senator goodbye and blocked him on twitter shortly after accusing him of lying

Recently deported firebrand lawyer and self-declared general of the outlawed NRM, Miguna Miguna, trained his guns towards Boni Khalwale, branding the former Kakamega Senator a coward, on Monday, February 12.

The headstrong lawyer was quick to dismiss Khalwale as a certified coward who had exposed himself for what he truly was before blocking him, after an emphatic goodbye.

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"I've blocked you because you add no value to Kenya. You are a certified coward," Miguna responded in a tweet seen by TUKO.co.ke

The vicious twitter melee all began when Khalwale claimed to have aided Miguna in his plight following a radical government crackdown on individuals involved in the controversial swearing in of NASA leader Raila Odinga, on January 30.

The headstrong lawyer was quick to dismiss Khalwale as a certified coward who had exposed himself for what he truly was. Photo:migunamiguna.com

Miguna was quick to shutdown Khalwales tweet condemning his deportation and accused the former senator of lying through his teeth.

Miguna Miguna said the Canadian High Commission told him that Boni Khalwale did not contact them about his incarceration.

READ ALSO: Mwanamke ampa Larry Madowo busu la aina yake na kuisisimua mitandao

Miguna Miguna said the Canadian High Commission told him that Boni Khalwale did not contact them about his incarceration. Photo: CitizenTV

Khalwale, seemingly incensed at Migunas attack told him to stay on his lane and ease of his power delusions.

"Our brother, could you please spare us your delusions of your own power and importance?," Khalwale replied.

READ ALSO: Miguna begins process to fight his return to Kenya after deportation

The eccentric Miguna, who never fails to thrill Kenyans with his dramatic jabs at fellow politicians went on to label Khalwale a deceiver of Kenyans.

As TUKO.co.ke had formerly reported, days after his deportation, self proclaimed leader of the outlawed NRM, began court procedures to see him allowed back in Kenya.

ALSO WATCH: Kenyans react to Miguna Miguna's deportation on TUKO tv

Source: TukoRussian-backed militants launched nine attacks on positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) area in Donbas over the past day.

This is reported by the ATO Headquarters press center.

In Luhansk direction, illegal armed formations fired weapons on infantry combat vehicles, grenade launchers of different types, heavy machine guns and small arms outside Zaitseve (67km north-north-east of Donetsk).

In Donetsk direction, militants shelled Ukrainian positions near Talakivka (20km north-west of Mariupol), using 120mm and 82mm mortars and weapons on infantry combat vehicles. The enemy shooting from mortars of different calibers was also recorded outside Shyrokyne (20km east of Mariupol) and Vodiane (16km north-west of Donetsk). In addition, Russian-backed militants violated ceasefire in the suburbs of Avdiivka (18km north of Donetsk).

No casualties among Ukrainian troops were reported.

olNo Ukrainian soldier has been injured in the area of the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) in Donbas over the past 24 hours.

Ukrainian Defense Ministry spokesman for ATO issues Dmytro Hutsuliak, said this ata briefing on Monday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"No Ukrainian military has been wounded over the past day," Hutsuliak said.

According to him, in general, militants fired nine times at the positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Two attacks were reported in the Luhansk sector, and seven cases of the use of proscribed weapons were recorded in the Donetsk sector. The Ukrainian side was forced to return fire four times.

opSome Chinese buyers have canceled corn purchases from the United States and started to buy corn from rival supplier Ukraine, as Beijing announced rather high requirements for the processing of genetically modified crops.

This has been reported by Reuters with a reference to three trade sources and an analyst.

Traders this year have been more inclined to buy corn from Ukraine as it is non-GMO and doesnt require the (processing) permit, said Cherry Zhang, analyst with Shanghai JC Intelligence.

According to the agency, any prolonged shift by one of the worlds top corn importers would unnerve U.S. farmers as they prepare to harvest a bumper crop this year and could potentially mark a new front in trade tensions festering between China and the United States.

In 2017, China increased purchases of U.S. corns, which resulted in the growth of domestic prices. According to the agency, it had become more difficult for Chinese grain mills to get permits to process genetically modified corn this year. Therefore, some companies decided to purchase non-GMO corns from Ukraine.

In 2017, Ukraines share of Chinas corn imports amounted to two-thirds, totaling 2.83 million tonnes, while the United States supplied a quarter of the corn imports.

iy"No to democracy, No to freedom," Anjem Choudary shouted through a microphone. "No to liberalism, no to secularism. No to Christianity. No to Judaism. No to Sikhsm. No to Buddhism. No to Socialism. No to Communism. No to Liberalism. No to Democracy. Democracy, go to Hell! Democracy, go to Hell!"



Pictured: Anjem Choudary (right), a British Islamic radical who is currently in jail, speaks at a protest in London on March 21, 2011. (Photo by Oli Scarff/Getty Images)

Sami is dedicated family man....Sami Al-Arian is a proud, dedicated and committed American as well as a proud and committed Palestinian. He is an extraordinarily bright, articulate scholar and intellectual-activist, a man of conscience with a strong commitment to peace and social justice.



Do not call them suicide bombers, call them shuhada [martyrs] as they have not escaped the miseries of life. They gave their life. Life is sacred, but some things like truth and justice are more sacred than life. They are not desperate, they are hopefuls.... [The Israelis] have guns, we have the human bomb. We love death, they love life.



It is because both in Arabic and in other languages "Islamic" refers to the ideals of the Muslim religion that both Muslims and people with good English diction object strenuously to a phrase such as "Islamic terrorism" or "Islamic fascism".



One of the preeminent tenured apologists for Islam, Cole is a great equivocator, always ready with an analogy of Western misconduct to downplay and offset Islamic wrongdoing. His go-to response is to blame Orientalism for all the Muslim world's ills.



The second reason that the assaults on tradition... matter is that they represent one front in a much larger war, a war over the tenor and shape of our culture, over our shared understanding of what the Greeks used to call "the good life for man." "The rape of the masters" .... is part of... a process of de-civilization. In other words, what we are witnessing is not simply a betrayal of an academic discipline: it is an assault on a culture, on a way of looking at and valuing the world and our place in it.



It has often been noted that totalitarian ideologies exploit democratic freedoms precisely in order to destroy freedom and abolish democracy. Democratic societies preach tolerance, very well, the clever totalitarian loudly demands tolerance for his own activities while scrupulously obliterating the conditions that make tolerance possible. (p. 79).



Dr. Denis MacEoin is an Islamicist and a Distinguished Senior Fellow at New York's Gatestone Institute. He lives in the UK.



Much of the weakness we have identified in so many modern European states comes, ironically, from many of our strengths. We have much to be proud of. However imperfectly at times, we have replaced tyranny with democracy, guaranteed freedom of speech and the press, ensured rights for all citizens, provided legal and political foundations for the growing empowerment of women, struggled against racist and religious bigotry, brought homosexual men and women out of the closet, given protections to the environment and wildlife, extended healthcare provision to most people, abolished the death sentence in all European countries (and Israel), and instituted regulations to block and punish crimes such as people trafficking, slavery, and drug smuggling.The best example of what this means is to be found in the state of Israel. It is precisely because Israel and a majority of Israelis have, from the beginning, combined Jewish ethical values with Western Enlightenment beliefs, that makes it stand out so sharply against all its neighbours. Human rights abuses in Iran, the Arab states, Turkey, and beyond guarantee that Israel, however much abused by international bodies and media, and however flawed, is, in fact, a bastion of democracy, human rights, equality under the law and the positive values that go with them.The irony, of course, is that so many people, have adopted a way of interpreting human rights and liberal values in a manner that often undermines them. Political correctness, as it developed through the 1980s and 1990s began with good intentions. Words, political policies, and action that were either intended or inadvertently constructed to offend people on account of their race, disabilities, sexuality and so forth, must be replaced by "correct" terms that would not give offence. Much good was done by that, and today there are expressions that one would never find in respectable publications or hear on public broadcasts. They have rightly been set to one side in all decent discourse.Many practitioners of political correctness, however, have taken matters to the point where even perfectly rational, well argued, and intelligent speech or behaviour was condemned. This could be, and evidently is, done to inhibit debate  a new type of censorship made vivid by faculty and students in most Western universities in which speakers offering alternative viewpoints (such as pro-Israel academics) are banned from coming onto campus, while students frightened of being upset by a lecture that presents a different viewpoint create "safe spaces" that will not exist upon their graduation to soothe their feelings. This has become so destructive of the very purpose of the university, that in December 2017 Jo Johnson, the UK Higher Education Minister, told universities to stop the practice of "no-platforming" speakers. Inevitably, student leaders attacked him for saying so.As anti-establishment groups shifted from support for the working classes and moved to an emphasis on solidarity with those termed by Frantz Fanon "the wretched of the earth", their compassion for suffering people in the Third World was all but eclipsed by a conviction that all today's evils stem from imperialism and colonialism. Up until the 1970s, this same conviction was expressed in support for communist states, regardless of how oppressive they might be.Concomitant with the belief that the world's sufferings go back to imperialist and colonialist states in Europe and America, there developed a growing contempt for white people who were citizens of those states. Even though Britain, France, and Portugal had abandoned their empires in Africa and elsewhere, they were still tainted with that description. Equally, even though Israel had never been a colonizing enterprise and had actually served as a refuge for some of the most persecuted people in the world, it was still attacked with the same slur.This contempt for the West translated well into many causes, but nowhere more closely than with the growing strength of radical Islam. After the Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979, and a widespread perception that Muslims should now be regarded as the greatest victims of Western hegemony, Westerners in increasing numbers fell in line with an Islamic interpretation of history and hopes of an apocalypse to rectify the injustices of the past.More than one radical who had been a thorn in the flesh of the Western democracies went so far as to convert to Islam and throw in their lot with the anti-Western firebrands of Iran and the Arab world. Roger Garaudy , a leading figure in the French Communist Party and a convicted Holocaust denier, became a hero for that denial in the Muslim world and converted to Islam in 1982. Carlos the Jackal (Ilich Ramirez Sanchez), who described himself as a Marxist-Leninist "professional revolutionary" and made himself a terrorist, did so around the year 2000 Many others became enthusiastic supporters of Islamic terrorist groups such as Hamas. In 2010, Che Guevara's eldest daughter, Aleida, travelled to Lebanon to express her admiration for the radical Shi'i group Hizbullah. Judith Butler, a revolutionary American professor, stated that "understanding Hamas/Hezbollah as social movements that are progressive, that are on the left, that are part of a global left, is extremely important". This from a woman who called herself a feminist and a supporter of gay rights. Calling Hamas and Hizbullah "progressive" should stick in the throat of anyone who knows how they disregard human rights, oppress women and murder homosexuals.One man, Edward Said, did grave damage to public perceptions of Western values, including democracy. His 1978 bookwas held -- mystifyingly -- in high esteem by many scholars who should know have known better, considering his manifold deceptions, as, for example, here here and here Of course, many people who also should have known better, believed in mirages such as Communism, and many still believe  despite such examples as the catastrophe of Venezuela -- in Socialism.Said promoted the conceit that the West, with its history of imperialism and colonialism has left Middle Easterners and Muslims (especially the Palestinians) the world's victims. The Western democracies, according to him, are the greatest villains of history, with Israel the source of all evil in the Middle East and far beyond.By ignoring the remarkable achievements of the West and whitewashing the many wrongs committed down the centuries by Muslims, not to mention the stark traditionalism that has mired all Islamic countries in most of the oppressive policies that liberals would normally condemn, Said tried to make anti-Western and pro-Islamic attitudes and policies respectable among the gullible. The only vocal kickback to this indulgence for Islam has, in yet another sad exercise of "shoot the messenger", come from people now accused -- often unjustly -- of being "racist" or "Islamophobic".This "broad brush" defamation has created problems, as doubtless intended, for those who offer balanced criticisms of Islam but are frequently tarred with the same brush.A blanket refusal to listen to serious concerns about Islam as an ideology and political enterprise stems from what is in many ways the most dangerous, yet unwitting, position taken by the middle ground. One loses track of the number of Western politicians and church leaders who blithely maintain that "Islam is a religion of peace" or who, when faced with jihadi terrorism, maintain that it "has nothing to do with Islam". A sort of paralysis engendered by a fear of being thought an "Islamophobe" makes it hard if not impossible for people in the public eye to admit that there is another truth, that has, unfortunately, been well known for centuries.Perhaps the most vivid recent example of one version of Islam clashing with another is a letter posted online on Christmas Day last year. It is addressed to Pope Francis, who was on record saying that "Islam is a religion of peace, one which is compatible with respect for human rights and peaceful coexistence." The very intelligent and strongly argued letter was written on behalf of more than a thousand former Muslims who had converted to Catholicism and wanted to explain that they had known Islam at first hand, which was precisely why they had embraced Christianity instead. The quotations from Christian and Islamic scripture make abundantly clear just what the differences are between the two faiths.It is time for some home truths. Islam has been at war with the West for some 1,384 years, with very little respite. When Muslim Arab armies invaded Syria in 634, went on to destroy all but a rump of the Christian Byzantine empire (which it finally defeated when the Ottoman Turks conquered Constantinople in 1453), took control of Spain, Portugal, Sicily and other lands on the north Mediterranean coast, it was the start of endless jihad wars. These wars did not end during the centuries of the Barbary slave trade during which Christians were routinely snatched by Muslim pirates and sold in markets in Algiers and elsewhere on the North African coast. Nor did attacks end when European countries colonized or created protectorates over Muslim states such as the Mughal empire of northern India, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco and Egypt. By the 1920s, Britain controlled about half the Muslims in the world and had defeated the largest Muslim empire in history, that of the Ottomans. But this expansion of European power only served to foster resentment and encourage violence against the imperial powers. This Islamic offensive against Western power has given way to large, often international groupings such as the Taliban, al-Qa'eda, Islamic State, Hamas, Hizbullah, and hundreds of other Islamic terror militants or armies.Unfortunately, concluding that modern terrorism "has nothing to do with Islam" or that "Islam is a religion of peace" visibly contradicts the historical record. It is this sort of thinking that deflates modern democracies. Most importantly, we do not seem able to understand that Islam is, above all else, a totalitarian project covering all aspects of human life from the spiritual to the material, from law to government to clothing to food to sex to taxation and more. This totalitarianism rejects democracy in the most basic way, as having come from mere humans rather than divinely, from Allah. Modern Muslim radicals from Hasan al-Banna', Sayyid Qutb, Abu A'la Mawdudi to the currently jailed British radical, Anjem Choudary, all insist that, since only God can make laws, the idea that human beings can legislate through parliamentary democracies is abhorrent, as is the idea of freedom for all citizens. Choudary, for example, spelled this rejection out in no uncertain terms during a public address You probably cannot get much more radical than that. When Western academics, however, such as John Esposito and Juan Cole defend extremists and pretend that they actually mean the opposite of what they say, their weakness spreads into the rest of society.For example, here is Esposito on Sami Al-Arian , who pled guilty in 2006 for providing goods and services to terrorist group Palestinian Islamic Jihad: And here he is again , this time on the 9/11 attacks: "September 11," he said, "has made everyone aware of the fact that not addressing the kinds of issues involved here, of tolerance and pluralism, have catastrophic repercussions."And here is how he speaks of Palestinian suicide bombers Cole too bends over backwards not to call a spade a spade: In her 2016 article "It was Britain's hopeless tolerance which allowed Anjem Choudary's hate to thrive", British journalist Allison Pearson castigated our inability to arrest one of the country's most dangerous men for two decades.Failures to acknowledge Islamic radicalism by many of the people elected or employed to protect European citizens from danger have exposed us to terrorist attacks that have killed and maimed hundreds. In a matter of some twenty years, we have all found ourselves living in security-focussed towns and cities, afraid to walk down our high streets, shop in our markets, attend rock concerts, or visit government buildings. Meanwhile, thousands of Jews are leaving Europe , driven out by fears sparked by a new wave of antisemitism that has been led in many places by Muslim fundamentalists. France, with its 750 no-go zones and its privileged Islamist population, is the worst affected, even though it had Europe's largest Jewish community in its midst.Over the past three decades, Western societies have been rendered all but impotent in the face of ideologies that challenge their most basic values. Having rejected many expressions of political and religious extremism, bigotry, and cruelty; having abandoned imperialism and colonialism; and having enacted laws about hate crimes, Europeans and Americans are still condemned by activists who espouse the tenets of radical political correctness. To many in a wide range of US and European universities who seem like bigoted fanatics in their zeal to close down the free speech if anyone opposes their views, anything whatever that smacks of criticism of ethnic, gender, or religious minorities must be condemned outright. All too often, the only response to this hyper-sensitivity comes from other bigoted fanatics, many increasingly popular in European countries such as Hungary In, the American author Roger Kimball explores the damage across the arts disciplines by post-modernist politically correct thinkers. In the preface (p. xix), he writes:"De-civilization." Yet here we go, led by a politically correct intelligentsia, churches, and political parties, effectively handing over our civilization to people who hate it.Later, Kimball writes:That is exactly what we have allowed to take place in the Western democracies. A combination of these aspiring totalitarians and Muslims have criminalized one of the world's most democratic countries, Israel, and have been taking over the General Assembly of the United Nations, UNESCO, the UN Human Rights Council, UNWRA, and other bodies in order to do so. The Human Rights Council never ceases to condemn Israel, all the while seldom if ever denouncing the many Muslim tyrannies. If we are ever to save Western civilization and democracy, we must urgently rally our forces to stand up to all those who seek to trash it. [1] Several writers have published critiques of Said and his work, emphasizing his duplicity and inaccuracies; among the best is Joshua Muravchik's short account, "Edward Said Conquers Academia for Palestine", chapter seven of his wider study(Encounter Books, New York/London, 2014.) [2] On Hungary, see Kirchik,, chapter 2.Since September 2017, over 24 thousand auctions have been conducted in Ukraine with the use of blockchain technology, according to OpenMarket CEO Victor Vishnev

"Since September 2017, a total of 24,202 auctions have been carried out with the use of blockchain technology, of which 447 were successful. Total sales amounted to UAH 692 million," Vishnev said, the Justice Ministry reports.

According to him, blockchain technology makes any manipulation of data impossible.

"Saved information cannot be removed or forged. Thus, we guarantee full security of the auctions and invite every Ukrainian to take part in the bidding," Vishnev said.

iyUkrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said after a meeting with Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz that he is not concerned about the pro-Russian rhetoric of the Austrian Freedom Party, which is part of a government coalition with conservatives.

Poroshenko stated this in an interview with Austrian magazine Profil.

"Sebastian explained to me the government program, in which the necessary support is guaranteed to Ukraine," the magazine quotes the Ukrainian leader as saying, adding that the Ukrainian president is not worried about pro-Russian moods in the Freedom Party.

Poroshenko sees sanctions imposed by the EU against Russia as "motivation for Russia to fully implement the Minsk agreements." At the same time, he is absolutely convinced that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not know what to do with Donbas. "Putin just has to admit that this is Ukrainian territory and to respect international law. Mr. Putin, please stop killing people in Ukraine, Syria and other regions of the world," Poroshenko said, addressing the Russian leader.

Poroshenko also answered questions from Austrian journalists about an independent anti-corruption court, the creation of which is required by Western partners, assuring that this will happen this year. "Corruption has always been and remains the biggest problem in Ukraine," he said, adding that he wants to work with Western intelligence services in order to return to Ukraine the money illegally taken abroad by oligarchs, politicians and senior officials.

Poroshenko also said that Ukraine's joining the EU and NATO remains a priority. "Do you know why Austria does not have to be a member of NATO? That's because you do not have such a neighbor as Russia. We got to know Russia as an aggressor. NATO is the only effective mechanism for collective security," he said.

The Austrian Freedom Party entered the coalition government on the rights of a junior partner following last year's parliamentary elections in the republic. Freedom Party leader Heinz-Christian Strache has repeatedly called for the lifting of sanctions against Russia and even stated that "Crimea is really part of Russia, and this must be accepted." However, after joining the post of vice chancellor of Austria, he somewhat restrained his pro-Russian rhetoric.

opThe head of the permanent delegation of the Verkhovna Rada to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, MP Iryna Friz, has commented on the blocking by Hungary of a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Commission at the level of defense ministers.

She wrote this on her Facebook page.

Friz said she was convinced that such behavior cannot be triggered to controversy around Ukraine's education law.

"The Ukrainian side proposes and is ready to resolve such issues in the format of negotiations in the spirit of international law, the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages, and the mechanisms of the annual national program for cooperation with NATO. However, it must be admitted that the position by Hungary, which has resorted to actual blackmail, is not only counterproductive, but also the one that undermines the security situation in Europe," she wrote.

The MP noted that attempts by Budapest to block a NATO-Ukraine Commission meeting at the level of defense ministers is a dangerous practice of mixing bilateral humanitarian issues with issues of security and defense of the whole region.

"Thus, Hungary not only indirectly contributes to easing NATO's efforts to minimize regional risks, but also contributes to Russia's policy of destroying the North Atlantic Treaty Organization from the inside," Friz said.

According to her, Ukraine is always open to negotiations and settlement of controversial issues in the spirit of the alliance - at the negotiating table.

"I hope that Budapest will abandon the policy of blackmail with signs of territorial claims to the territory of sovereign Ukraine," she concluded.

Earlier, a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Commission at the level of defense ministers was tentatively scheduled for February 14 or 15. During the meeting, the Ukrainian defense minister had to present his thoughts to the ministers of the partner countries. However, Hungary used a veto and blocked the meeting.

opUkrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin will participate in a ministerial meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), which will be held in Kuwait on February 13.

This was reported by the press service of the Embassy of Ukraine in Kuwait.

"The ministerial meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS is intended to coordinate efforts of the member states in confronting the terrorist threat not only in Syria and Iraq but also throughout the world, as well as to discuss the ways of overcoming the consequences of ISIS criminal activities," the report reads.

About 70 countries and international organizations, which are the participants in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, intend to participate in the event being represented at the ministerial level.

The conference will be co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabahand U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

ishUkrainian President Petro Poroshenko believes that Russia can try to escalate the situation in Ukraine at any time.

He said this in an interview with German newspaper Bild, the press service of the head of state reported.

"[Russian President Vladimir] Putin has so many troops in Ukraine that he can contribute to the escalation of the situation at any moment if he wishes so. I once told [German] Chancellor [Angela] Merkel: 'Can you imagine that there are more tanks in eastern Ukraine than the Bundeswehr now has?' There are 600 tanks in this small territory," Poroshenko said.

He recalled that before the signing of the Minsk agreements, in particular in February 2015, almost 25 Ukrainian soldiers died daily from the bullets of regular Russian troops. At the same time, the president stressed that Putin had not fulfilled the agreements reached in Minsk and "always, whenever he wants, contributes to another escalation."

The head of state stressed that 824 people had been killed in the war after the signing of the Minsk agreements.

opThe Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has announced the detention of Ukrainian citizen Kostiantyn Davydenko in Simferopol for "espionage," according to the FSB's website.

"On February 11, 2018, the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation detained a citizen of Ukraine, Kostiantyn Oleksandrovych Davydenko, in Simferopol. The said person deliberately collected and transmitted to the intelligence services of Ukraine information about the activities of the units and formations of the Federal Service of the Russian National Guard and in relation to employees of the Federal Security Service, which is a state secret and the leakage of which abroad could harm the security of the state," reads the report.

The FSB opened a criminal case on the grounds of a crime envisaged by Article 276 of the Criminal Code of Russia ("espionage").

opUkraine still has great need of radio-electronic and (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) ISR capabilities to counter Russian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), fire-control capabilities, and Russian ISR.

U.S. military assistance to Ukraine will not be limited to the supply of Javelin anti-tank missile systems.

"There are no grounds for believing that merely sending Javelin missiles (which, in any case have yet to arrive) suffices to show resolve and convince [Russian President Vladimir] Putin to withdraw," Stephen Blank, a Senior Fellow at the American Foreign Policy Council, wrote in an article for The Second Line of Defense.

Read alsoRussia to "draw conclusions" from U.S. lethal aid to Ukraine - Lavrov"Ukraine still has great need of radio-electronic and ISR capabilities to counter Russian UAVs, fire-control capabilities, and Russian ISR," he said.

"Therefore it will be necessary not only to sustain the reforms needed in Ukrainian defense and defense industrial structures as well as across the economy and government. It is also equally necessary to give Ukraine the tools that it cannot produce on its own to counter the Russian threat and allow free people to defend themselves against aggression," Blank wrote.

"By all accounts, Ukraine's defense industry is quite capable and making considerable strides since 2014. But it is hardly able to match the technological level of Russia's [electronic warfare] EW and ISR capabilities for fire control."

"Ukraine can also contribute, e.g. NATO can use Kyiv's fleet of transports to bring forces rapidly from Western and Central Europe to Poland, the Baltic States, or the Balkans against Russian threats. This move would benefit both NATO and its members as well as Kyiv and represent a very visible political sign to Moscow," he stressed.The Russian Federation seeks destabilization in Ukraine.

The Russian Federation has not fulfilled any provision of the Minsk peace agreements on Donbas in the past three years as it has been seeking destabilization in Ukraine.

Read alsoUkrainian Foreign Ministry responded to Lavrov's statement on "scrapping" Minsk agreements"12.02.15. A package of measures for the implementation of the Minsk agreements (2014) was adopted. Russia has not fulfilled any provision. The Russian Federation needs war and destabilization of Ukraine," press secretary of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Mariana Betsa wrote on Twitter on February 11, 2018.

As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged international partners to increase pressure on the Russian Federation to stop ceasefire violations in Donbas and fulfill the Minsk agreements.This would be up to the migration service and border guards to decide, the president said on the eve of Saakashvili's expulsion.

Deportation of the ex-president of Georgia, leader of the Movement of New Forces Mikheil Saakashvili is an issue the migration service and border services are to decide on, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said.

In an interview published by an Austrian publication Profil on Feb 12, on the eve of Saakashvilis detention in a Kyiv restaurant on Monday, the head of state said he would not want to "influence" the agencies.

Read alsoSaakashvili detained in Kyiv (Video)"Mr. Saakashvili is not a Ukrainian citizen, he is not a Ukrainian politician either, because according to our legislation only Ukrainian citizens may do politics. He violated the Ukrainian legislation, he was convicted in Georgia," the president said.

Read alsoSaakashvili flies off to Poland - media"It's not up to the president to decide what will happen to him, he could be deported, even though I would not want this, but this is a matter for the State Migration Service and border agencies to decide. I do not want to influence them," said the head of state.The expert says that by trying to return Donbas, Ukraine does not solve any external issues.

Serhiy Korsunsky, the Director of Hennadii Udovenko Diplomatic Academy under Ukraine's Foreign Ministry and former Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Turkey, has said Russia is trying to swap Donbas for Crimea and wants to create a permanent tool of influence on Ukraine in the east of the country.

Read alsoPutin to seek to "swap" Crimea for Donbas after elected for new term  analystSpeaking about the goal pursued by Russia in the ongoing conflict in the east of Ukraine, Korsunsky said in Kyiv on Monday, February 12, during a panel discussion on the Donbas conflict in 2018: "It has a goal: to try to swap Donbas for Crimea, to make Americans speak with Russia somehow differently from the way they speak now and, of course, to solve the main issue, i.e. to get a permanent tool of influence on Ukraine."

"It seems to me when we talk about Donbas, we should distinguish that it is a 100% external conflict for Russia, as it has an external dimension. In no way, it (Russia) seeks to address certain domestic problems or once again boost Putin's ratings to 'incredible heights,'" he said.

"The situation for Ukraine is absolutely opposite. It is an internal problem. Trying to return Donbas, we do not solve any external problems, we are trying to address our internal situation," the diplomat said.

UNIAN memo. After the annexation of Crimea by Russia in March 2014, Ukraine's east was seized by Russian-backed militants, and on April 15, 2014, the Ukrainian government had to launch its first formal military action against the militants who had seized government buildings in towns and cities across eastern Ukraine. Less than a month later, separatists in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk declared independence after unrecognized referendums.The Islamic Republic had tried to dictate the rules of the game by launching a UAV into Israel. They failed in this regard. The IDFs quick and devastating response put to rest any foolhardy Iranian notions that Israel will ignore future border transgressions and further Iranian entrenchment in Syria. If anything, it was Israel, by its swift and overwhelming reaction to Iranian aggression that changed the rules of the game. Iranian outposts throughout Syria and beyond will no longer be immune to attack.

The Syrian Army does not exactly have a stellar record in shooting down Israeli aircraft. Were Russian advisers present and advising their Syrian underlings when the missiles were launched? Even worse, were the Russians actually manning the batteries? The answers to these questions may never be known but an Israeli-Iranian clash and heightened regional tensions run counter to Russian interests. Israel and Russia have maintained continuous dialogue through diplomatic and military channels in an effort to avoid military confrontations and lower tensions. Indeed, just ten days prior to the incident, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was in Moscow for talks with his counterpart Vladimir Putin. The two leaders enjoy a good business-like relationship.

Obamas foreign policies continue to have a lingering, deleterious effect. The Iran deal provided the Iranians with a badly needed cash infusion. The $1.7 billion in cash that Obama transferred to the Iranians on wooden pallets and the billions of dollars Iran received from sanctions relief have been channeled to fuel their overseas wars. Irans entrenchment in Syria and its use of UAVs to violate Israeli airspace is a direct consequence of the Iran deal.

The Iranian UAV was a knockoff of the American RQ-170 Sentinel spy drone. Iran captured a Sentinel in 2011 when one crashed in Iran under mysterious circumstances. There has been speculation that Iranian cyber hackers intercepted the Sentinels data link or otherwise misdirected it by hacking into its GPS. Whether it crashed by itself or was hacked, the Sentinel and all of its technology fell into Iranian hands relatively intact. Obama asked the Iranians to return the UAV and the Iranians naturally refused and likely reversed engineered the UAV with the help of the Russians and Chinese. But Obama had another option that involved bombing and destroying the Sentinel after its seizure by the Iranians. As former vice president Dick Cheney noted, The right response to [Irans seizure] would have been to go in immediately after it had gone down and destroy it. Cheney added that it could have been accomplished with an airstrike but instead, Obama, asked nicely for them to return it, and they aren't going to.

The shadow war between Israel and Iran burst into open warfare over the weekend with a brazen and reckless Iranian unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) intrusion into Israeli airspace. The drama unfolded on Saturday at 4:25 a.m. when an Iranian reconnaissance drone, believed to be a knockoff of the American RQ-170 Sentinel UAV, penetrated into Israeli airspace for approximately 90 seconds before being shot down by an Israeli Apache attack helicopter of the 113th Squadron near the Israeli town of Bet Shean in the Jordan Valley.Israeli intelligence had been monitoring the aircraft and its flight path soon after it took off from an Iranian controlled airbase called T4 located near the Syrian city of Palmyra. Immediately after intercepting the drone, the Israeli Air Force attacked the command and control vehicle responsible for controlling and monitoring the UAV, and obliterated it.Returning IAF aircraft were met with a hail of anti-aircraft fire. According to Israeli sources, the Syrians fired between 15 and 20 antiaircraft missiles. One of them, believed to be either a long-range SA-5 or medium-range SA-17, locked on to an F-16 Sufa fighter bomber and exploded near the aircraft, peppering the jet with shrapnel.Both pilot and navigator safely ejected and the plane crashed in a field in Israels Jezreel Valley. Fortunately, no civilians were hurt. The navigator will likely be released from the hospital today or tomorrow, while the pilot is still recovering from abdominal injuries but is said to be fully conscience and breathing on his own. His condition continues to improve and doctors are optimistic.It was the first time that an Israel jet fighter had been shot down since June 1982 when an A-4 Sky Hawk was shot down over Beirut during the initial phases of Operation Peace for Galilee. In 1983, an F-4 Phantom crashed in Lebanon but that was due to a technical malfunction rather than hostile fire. In 2006, an Israeli Yassur heavy-lift transport helicopter was shot down by a MANPADS fired by Hezbollah terrorists.Immediately following the crash, Israel launched a furious and devastating bombardment against Syrian and Iranian military positions, attacking twelve military sites throughout the country. Four of those sites were Iranian bases and encampments while the remaining sites were Syrian anti-aircraft missile batteries and military bases including a base belonging to the Syrian armys 104th airborne division.Brig. Gen. Tomer Bar, the deputy head of the IAF termed the attack as, the biggest and most significant attack the air force has conducted against Syrian air defenses since Operation Peace for the Galilee. During that conflict, the IAF destroyed 19 Syrian surface-to-air missile batteries while swatting 80 Syrian MiG-21 and MiG-23 fighters from the skies, for no losses.The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that at least six Assad regime fighters and their allies were killed in the wave of attacks but the death toll is expected to climb. As is their wont, neither the Syrian government nor the Iranians provided casualty figures.Delirious Shia and supporters of the Assad regime cheered in the capitals of Tehran, Damascus and Beirut upon hearing news of the F-16s demise. Such celebrations are beyond absurd. The fact that after thousands of sorties over hostile territory, a single jet was downed does not mean that Israel has lost air supremacy. To claim otherwise is utter nonsense. Moreover, the myopic celebrants, drunk on phantom victories glaringly ignored other notable aspects of the military encounter; chiefly, the rapid interception of the UAV, the destruction of its command and control vehicle, and the destruction and devastation wrought upon multiple Iranian and Syrian bases hit in the wave of Israeli retaliatory strikes.There are a number of takeaways from this engagement.The events of the weekend make clear that we are entering a dangerous new phase of Iranian malignancy. The reversals suffered by anti-Assad rebels have enabled Iran to concentrate its aggressive efforts beyond the Syrian battleground. Its safe to say that the only regional power capable of blunting and even reversing Irans expansion is Israel.A chartered flight took off at around 16:00 Kyiv time.

Ex-Georgian President, now leader of the "Movement of New Forces" Mikheil Saakashvili, who had been detained in a Kyiv restaurant earlier on Monday, has reportedly flown to Poland.

The politician was put on a chartered flight, TSN.ua news services sources claim.

Read alsoSaakashvili detained in Kyiv (Video)According to the report, the plane took off 16:00 Kyiv time.

Sources also state that this was not a deportation but a readmission. That is, the return of an illegal immigrant to the country from where they illegally arrived in Ukraine.The agency says the former Georgian president was staying in Ukraine illegally.

The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine has issued a statement on the situation with Mikheil Saakashvilis expulsion from Ukraine.

As for the situation with M. Saakashvili. Today, Feb 12, operatives of the State Border Guard Service together with representatives of the Migration Service and National Police informed Mikheil Saakashvili on the decision of the competent body on his return to the country of his previous stay. However, during this process, unidentified individuals from Mikhail Saakashvilis entourage attacked law enforcement officials. Border guards were forced to defend themselves and employed force support, a spokesperson for the State Border Guard Service, Oleh Slobodyan, wrote on Facebook.

Read alsoPoroshenko says wouldnt want Saakashvili deportedIt should be recalled that on September 22, 2017, the Mostysky Court of Lviv region recognized Saakashvili guilty of illegally crossing the border of Ukraine.

In January 2018, the District Administrative Court of Kyiv rejected Saakashvilis suit against the State Migration Service over its refusal to recognize him a refugee.

On February 6, the District Administrative Court of Kyiv rejected Saakashvilis appeal to the decision of the Migration Service refusing to register documents to recognize him a refugee or a person requiring additional protection.

In accordance with the above-mentioned judicial decisions, the person was staying in Ukraine illegally, and therefore, observing all legal formalities, he was returned to the country from where he arrived, violating the Ukrainian legislation.

As UNIAN reported earlier, citing TSN.uas sources, Mikheil Saakashvili was put on a chartered plane and flown off to Poland at around 16:00 on Feb 12.

Earlier on Monday, the politician was detained in a Kyiv restaurant.This time, Saakashvili's detention ended up in his deportation to Warsaw. A spokesman for the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, Oleh Slobodyan, stated that "the operatives of the State Border Guard Service together with representatives of the Migration Service and National Police informed Mikheil Saakashvili on the decision of the competent body on his return to the country of his previous stay, Poland".

On the one hand, Ukrainian authorities performed an "act of humanism", sending Saakashvili to the EU, where he could further acquire permanent residence in the Netherlands under a family reunion procedure, instead of deporting him to Georgia, where he would have faced imminent arrest and, at least, several months in prison.

It is unlikely that Warsaw will rejoice at such a step by Kyiv. This might even add up more spice to the already strained bilateral relations. However, Saakashvili faces no threats while in Poland. He will neither be arrested nor is he likely to be deported elsewhere.

The presidential administrations logic could be understood. Mikheil was invited to do one job, but instead of doing it, he started building up his "own political image" (Ukrainian elites havent fancied that since Kuchma times) and turned for Ukrainian authorities into an annoying troll.

On the one hand, Ukrainian authorities performed an "act of humanism", sending Saakashvili to the EU instead of Georgia

Since Saakashvili has been stripped of his earlier acquired Ukrainian citizenship (we shall leave behind brackets the way this was done), Saakashvili is banned by law from engaging in politics in Ukraine. Moreover, he has no right to set up mass rallies demanding impeachment. This was clearly stated both by President Petro Poroshenko and Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko.

But, in my opinion, Saakashvilis expulsion to Europe will not bring the presidential team the long-sought tranquility.

I am afraid to once again become that prophet delivering bad news (I have already said that the former Georgian president will be detained three times), but it seems to me that the Saakashvili saga will not end with his deportation to Warsaw.

Perhaps, the Bankova [presidential administration] believes that once theyve gotten rid of Saakashvili, removing him from the territory of Ukraine, the protest waves will go to naught. In fact, the deportation will only radicalize it.

Protest leaders are already queuing up to play their part. Meanwhile, public demand for protest action has already formed, say most sociologists. Suppressing this public contempt would only deepen the crisis.

Now, it will be, say, Yulia Tymoshenko, or some murky figures from the National Squads, or an odious MP Semen Semenchenko who may take people to the streets of Ukrainian cities.

Perhaps, the Bankova believes that once theyve gotten rid of Saakashvili, removing him from the territory of Ukraine, the protest waves will go to naught. In fact, the deportation will only radicalize it

As early as March, it a wave of rallies should be expected, initiated by Tymoshenkos Batkivshchyna Party calling for early parliamentary elections and Poroshenkos impeachment. New leaders and political projects are becoming more vocal as well. I dont rule out that the radical wing of the Euro-optimists, the Liberation movement, together with Saakashvilis Movement of New Forces, will try to pump second breath into Saakashvili Marches.

While Saakashvili used to be a natural obstacle for more people to join rallies, (many prudent activists did not take part solely because they didnt relate themselves with Mikheils slogans), now the niche is free.

In the new political season, there will be a dozen influential financial and industrial groups that may start their risky game, which will result in a jackpot. The election is closer than you think...

Vitaliy Kulyk is a Director of the Center for the Study of Civil Society ProblemsThe Russian security services have opened a criminal case against the detainee on charges of espionage.

Officers of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) have detained a Ukrainian citizen, Kostiantyn Davydenko, in the Russian-occupied city of Simferopol, Crimea.

The FSB claims the detainee was allegedly engaged in spying in Crimea in the interests of the Ukrainian special services.

Read alsoCrimean attacked for Ukrainian symbols faces jail term for seeking justice"The specified person purposefully collected and sent the special services of Ukraine the classified information concerning the Federal Service of Troops of the National Guard of the Russian Federation and members of the Federal Security Service whose leakage abroad could damage the security of the state," the FSB said on its website.

The Russian security services opened a criminal case against the detainee under Article 276 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (espionage).

This is not the first case when the occupying authorities in Crimea arrested Ukrainian citizens on charges of espionage and subversive activity. On November 10, 2016, the FSB announced that "members of a terrorist group of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry" Dmytro Shtyblikov, Oleksiy Bessarabov and Volodymyr Dudko had been detained in Crimea. They were arrested for two months for alleged preparations for an act of sabotage.

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry condemned their detention and called it an "element of Russian aggression against Ukraine."

In November 2017, the Sevastopol City Court in occupied Crimea sentenced Dmytro Shtyblikov to five-year imprisonment in a high-security penal colony. He was also fined RUB 200,000.The enemy continued using mortars of various calibers to attack Ukrainian positions.

Russia's proxy forces mounted nine attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas in the past 24 hours, with no Ukrainian soldiers reported as killed or wounded in action.

Read alsoATO report: militants open fire near village earlier retaken by Ukraine forces"In the past day, the aggressor continued using mortars of various calibers to attack the Ukrainian defenders' positions in violation of the Minsk agreements," the press center of the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) Headquarters said on Facebook on Monday, February 12.

In the Luhansk sector, the enemy opened fire from infantry fighting vehicles' cannons, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns and small arms near the village of Zaitseve in the afternoon and in the evening.

The Mariupol sector saw most of the enemy attacks in Donetsk region. In particular, the occupation forces used 120mm and 82mm mortars near the village of Talakivka. The invaders simultaneously engaged infantry fighting vehicles. Moreover, enemy fire from mortars of various calibers was recorded near the villages of Vodiane and Shyrokyne. In addition, the illegal armed formations violated the ceasefire near the town of Avdiyivka, using heavy machine guns and small arms.The operation would need a mix of some European countries, such as Sweden, countries with a track record in peacekeeping, such as Brazil, and countries that have Russia's trust, such as Belarus.

The United Nations should consider a force of some 20,000 soldiers from non-NATO countries and 4,000 police to help resolve the crisis in Ukraine, according to a new report to be presented to top officials this week.

A report commissioned by former NATO chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen  now an adviser to Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko  will be presented to officials including the U.S. special envoy to Ukraine, Kurt Volker, at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, Reuters said.

Read alsoChancellor Kurz: Austria supports idea of deploying peacekeepers to Donbas"The operation would need a mix of some European countries, such as Sweden, countries with a track record in peacekeeping, such as Brazil, and countries that have Russia's trust, such as Belarus," said Richard Gowan, author of the report and an expert on the United Nations at Columbia University.

While numbers as high as 50,000 personnel have been mentioned by some diplomats and experts, Gowan said it was unrealistic to expect countries to put forward so many troops, while Moscow would likely resist such a large force.

Senior officials from Russia, Ukraine, Germany and France will discuss the conflict on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

LOCAL ELECTIONS

Gowan said establishing a peacekeeping force could allow local elections to take place in eastern Ukraine  a key part of the 2015 Minsk peace accords negotiated by Kyiv, Moscow, Paris and Berlin. They seek to restore Ukraines control over its border with Russia and withdraw heavy weapons from the area.

"If you were able to get a significant presence on the ground reasonably quickly, you would want to move toward local elections within 12 months, and then keep peacekeepers there for a cooling-off period, say two years in total," Gowan said.

International police would also be crucial to establishing peace because soldiers in tanks would be ill-placed to deal with any protests that could follow such a vote, he said.

Over 700 unarmed civilian observers from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) currently operate monitoring missions on the conflict, but these have not reduced tensions.

Difficult obstacles remain to the approval of any U.N. force. Russia, which has a veto as a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, would have to agree to the details, and it is unclear whether Sweden would agree to lead the mission.The Ukrainian president sees no point in undertaking new initiatives on Donbas.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko says he is sure that Russian President Vladimir Putin has no strategy for Donbas.

"I am absolutely sure that he has no idea what to do with Donbas. Putin only had to admit that it is a Ukrainian territory and to respect international law. Please, Mr. Putin, stop killing people  in Ukraine, in Syria and in other parts of the world!" Poroshenko said in an interview with the Vienna-based online news magazine Profil.

"There is no need to undertake new initiatives in the east of Ukraine as the old deal should be implemented," he said.

Read alsoForcing a "corridor" to Transnistria: Political expert assesses likelihood of Russias advance in Ukraine"It's just necessary to stick to the old arrangements. Everything is clearly stated in the Minsk accords: to withdraw the troops, to seal the border, to observe the ceasefire and stop the killings. After that, we can launch a political process," Poroshenko added.

According to human rights activists, about 2,500 civilians have been killed, 11,000 wounded, and 1,500 missing in Donbas since 2014.Russian occupation forces shelled defensive fortifications of the Ukrainian forces eight times from day-start.

A Ukrainian soldier was killed as a result of the enemy attack, while another one was wounded in action.

As reported by the press center of the Anti-Terrorist Operation Headquarters headquarters on Facebook, the enemy intensified its attacks near Novoluhanske, Svitlodarsk and Zaitseve in the Luhansk direction.

"Here, the invaders fired on our positions from grenade launchers, heavy machine guns, and small arms," the press center said.

Read alsoUkraine reports nine attacks on its troops in Donbas in past dayThe report says several shots from machine guns were heard near Novhorodske.

"The enemy also shelled defenders of Katerynivka from grenade launchers of various types. According to the defenders of Popasna, [the enemy] fired a 82mm mortar. However, the enemy fire was most intense on the defenders of Krymske. Outside this front-line settlement, illegal armed groups employed 120mm and 82mm mortars, grenade launchers, and small arms," the report said.

The ATO HQ press center said that "in total, from day-start, eight shellings of Ukraine troops defensive fortifications were recorded.

Unfortunately, as a result of the enemy fire, a Ukrainian soldier was killed and another defender was wounded," the report reads.

The ATO command expressed sincere condolences to the family and friends of the fallen soldier who sacrificed his life for Ukraines peaceful future.All 71 people on board the plane have officially been declared dead.

The main part of the search operation at the crash site of an Antonov An-148 passenger aircraft near Moscow may be completed in seven days.

"The rescue efforts have been wrapped up," Russian Emergencies Minister Vladimir Puchkov said on Monday said, the Russian news agency TASS reported.

According to the minister, the status of the operation at the crash site had been switched from the rescue to search, since none of 71 people on board the plane survived in the tragedy.

Read alsoRussian passenger jet with 71 aboard crashes outside Moscow (Photo, Video)"We officially state that all 71 people on board the plane are dead," he added.

"The works at the scene are conducted round the clock," Puchkov said. "We plan holding the main stage of the search operation here at the site of the incident in the course of seven days, because we have a big area of the scattered wreckage fragments, heavy snow and complicated ground profile."

The minister added that the priority at the moment was render all the necessary assistance to the families of the victims and cooperation was already underway with all regions, where the passengers came from.

Radio contact with the An-148 passenger plane of the Saratov Airlines (flight 730 from Moscow to Orsk, Orenburg region) that took off from the Domodedovo airport at 14:24 Moscow time on Sunday, February 11, was lost four minutes after the takeoff.

Fragments of the plane were found near the village of Stepanovskoye in Moscow region's Ramensky district. There were 65 passengers and six crew members on board the passenger jet.Taking into account the fact that Saakashvili is a spouse of an EU member state citizen, Ukraines request was considered positively.

The Polish border guard service admitted former Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili to its territory.

According to a press release published on the agencys official website, the decision was based on a "readmission application submitted by the National Migration Service of Ukraine to the Commander-in-Chief of the Border Guard".

Read alsoPoroshenko says wouldnt want Saakashvili deportedTaking into account the fact that M. Saakashvili is a spouse of a citizen of a European Union Member State, the request of the Ukrainian side was considered positively.

According to the source of TSN.ua, Poland does not intend to return Saakashvili to Ukraine.

Read alsoBorder guards confirm Saakashvili expelled from UkraineAs UNIAN reported earlier, Ukraines border guards has confirmed that Mikheil Saakashvili was expelled to Poland, the country he had illegally arrived from.Turkey's Operation in Northern Syria

Pictured: Turkish soldiers run through drills at a military outpost on the Turkey/Syria border on March 2, 2017 in Kilis, Turkey. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)

Sirwan Kajjo is a Syrian-Kurdish Washington-based journalist and author.



A Turkish assault against Kurdish forces in Syria, such as the ongoing one, was expected by everyone, including the U.S.Now, three weeks into its controversial offensive against a Kurdish enclave in northern Syria, Turkey's military is facing fierce resistance from the U.S.-backed Kurdish fighters in the city of Afrin.Observing the daily operations since they began on January 20, it is noticeable that the Turkish military and its allied Syrian rebels, backed by Turkish air support, have made little progress in taking control of Kurdish-held territory -- the main objective behind Ankara's decision to launch the offensive in Syria.So far, Turkey's advances have not gone beyond seizing a number of villages along its border with Syria, according to local sources.Since mid-2012, the Afrin region in northwestern Syria has been controlled by the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG). That occurred after the withdrawal of Syrian regime troops, which then began to focus on fighting rebel forces elsewhere in the country.Turkey views the YPG as an extension of the Turkey-based Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), an insurgent group that has been fighting Turkish forces for autonomy in Turkey's Kurdish-majority southeast. Both Turkey and the U.S. regard the PKK as a terrorist organization The U.S., however, makes a clear distinction between the YPG and PKK. Since late 2014, the U.S. has backed the YPG in its fight against the terror group ISIS. Despite Turkey's objections, U.S. support for Syrian Kurdish forces expanded over the years, and the YPG played a pivotal role in ousting ISIS from the Syrian city of Raqqa , previously ISIS's de facto capital.U.S. officials have repeatedly described the YPG as the most effective fighting force in the war on terror in Syria.The evolving U.S.-Kurdish partnership has alarmed Turkey. Ankara fears that establishing a Kurdish-led entity on its southern borders would empower its restive Kurdish population, particularly PKK fighters. Hence, Turkey's offensive against Afrin was hurriedly -- and perhaps prematurely -- launched when Washington last month announced its plans to build a 30,000-strong border security force made up largely of YPG fighters.The battle of Afrin will certainly not be easy for the Turkish army and its Syrian allies, and has already proven costly for the Turkish ground forces fighting in Syria. So far, more than 20 Turkish soldiers have been killed by Kurdish forces -- a relatively high figure for a Turkish military operation abroad. The YPG also downed a Turkish helicopter and destroyed several Turkish armored vehicles.Syrian Kurdish fighters, benefiting from their advances on ISIS, have become battle-hardened in the past few years. Their fighting experience has allowed them to control more than a quarter of Syria's territory -- thereby making them the second-largest entity after the Syrian military in the war-torn country.Unlike other Kurdish-held areas in northeast Syria, Afrin lies in mountainous terrain. This, Kurdish leaders say, is an advantage for the local fighters, who are familiar with their region.Anticipating a Turkish incursion, the YPG has been preparing for this battle for a long time; they have built hideouts and underground bases. On the eve of the attack, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan seemed to be confident that his military campaign in Afrin would be "swift." He was wrong.There is also a lack of sympathy for the Turks among Afrin residents; they have been known to detest the Turkey military for its anti-Kurdish actions at home. So even if Turkey succeeded in dislodging the YPG from Afrin, it would be challenging for Ankara to "bring stability" to the region.Turkey, when it launched Operation Euphrates Shield in August 2016, made clear that its objective was to eliminate both ISIS and the YPG in areas west of the Euphrates River. That campaign, which lasted five months, achieved its objective by separating Afrin from the rest of Kurdish-held areas, thus preventing Syrian Kurds from controlling a contiguous entity along the border.That measure, however, clearly was not enough for Ankara to make certain that Kurds would not have the ability to consolidate their military gains and push forward with their political project to govern northern Syria -- a plan that would involve, to varying degrees, backing from Russia and America.Many consider Afrin to be in Russia's sphere of influence, whereas the other two Kurdish enclaves of Kobani and Jazira, east of the Euphrates, have effectively become American bases.Turkey's fears of Kurdish gains in Syria, however, are unreasonable. Since the outbreak of Syria's bloody civil war in 2011, the Kurds have controlled much of the border on the Syrian side, and largely managed to keep the havoc from spilling over into Turkey. If anything, Syrian Kurds have done a favor to Turkey by protecting its border for a few years. A more constructive approach by Ankara should, therefore, be to work with the Kurds, rather than antagonize them.Most important, the U.S. maintains a growing military presence in Kurdish-controlled Syria, which has been instrumental in the war on terror. Washington needs to ensure that its Kurdish partners on the ground are protected and not distracted from the main mission, which is defeating terror in Syria.The bottom line is: Turkey's offensive against Syrian Kurds will serve only to aggravate the multi-layered conflict in Syria, making it even harder for international interlocutors to bring an end to the seven-year civil war and secure a much-needed political settlement for the country.AMMAN/CAIRO/BAGHDAD, 11 February 2017  Violence may have subsided in Iraq, but it has upended the lives of millions across the country, leaving one in four children in poverty and pushing families to extreme measures to survive.

Without investment to restore basic infrastructure and services for children, the hard-won gains to end conflict in Iraq are in jeopardy, according to a UNICEF and UN-Habitat assessment, Committing to Change  Securing the Future.

The conflict turned Iraqs major cities into war zones with significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools, hospitals and recreation spaces.

Since 2014, the United Nations has verified 150 attacks on education facilities and 50 attacks on health centres and personnel. Half of all schools in Iraq now require repairs and more than 3 million children have had their education interrupted.

Children are Iraqs future, said, Geert Cappelaere, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa. The Kuwait Conference for Iraq this week is an opportunity for world leaders to show that we are willing to invest in children - and through investing in children, that we are willing to invest in rebuilding a stable Iraq.

As displaced families return, many find that their homes require major repairs, exacerbating pre-conflict housing shortages in the country. In the city of Mosul, over 21,400 homes have been damaged or destroyed. The poorest families have no other choice but to live in the ruins of their homes, in potentially hazardous conditions for children. Some have taken their children out of school and put them to work. Many children were forced to fight an adults war.

"Children are hardest hit in times of conflict, and Iraq urban crisis recovery and reconstruction should be prioritized, adequately supported and quickly implemented, with special attention to vulnerable people, including children, said Zena Ali Ahmad the Director of Arab Region of UN-Habitat.

At the Kuwait Conference for Reconstruction in Iraq, from tomorrow to 14 February, UNICEF and UN-Habitat are appealing for firm commitments to restore basic infrastructure and services for children, including in education, psycho-social support, health and water, sanitation and hygiene, and housing.

###

For more information please contact:

Laila Ali, UNICEF Iraq, laali@unicef.org, +964 780 9258 542

Juliette Touma, UNICEF MENA Regional Office, jtouma@unicef.org +962 79-867-4628

Tamara Kummer, UNICEF MENA Regional Office, tkummer@unicef.org, +962 797 588 550 Alan Miran, UN-Habitat Iraq, alan.miran@unhabitat.org, +964 750 342 7036

Salma Mustafa, UN-Habitat Regional Office for Arab States, Salma.Mustafa@unhabitat.org, +20 2 37618812(@ChaudhryMAli88)

The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative has paved the way for new opportunities for Nepal to realize its dream of development and economic prosperity, government officials and experts said here on Monday

KATHMANDU, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative has paved the way for new opportunities for Nepal to realize its dream of development and economic prosperity, government officials and experts said here on Monday.

They made such remarks during a one-day seminar entitled "Strengthening cooperation to promote the construction of the Belt and Road" organized by Nepal China Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCCI) in Kathmandu.

Stating that the Belt and Road Initiative will bring opportunities in multiple fields including trade, connectivity, physical infrastructure development, tourism and investment, they pointed out the need of concrete mechanism for implementation.

"We have chalked out strategies and plans to implement the initiative but I believe Belt and Road Initiative is a much broader concept. We should have three tracks of approach, including the government one, business to business approach including private sector and knowledge-based approach to gain maximum benefits," Shanker Das Bairagi, Secretary at Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said after inaugurating the event.

Stressing that Nepal is a land-locked and least development country, the foreign secretary said that it needs the cooperation of neighbors, especially China, to upgrade its status to a developing country.

Nepal and China had signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Belt and Road Initiative on May 2017 in Kathmandu. Introduced by China in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative aims to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along the ancient trade routes of Silk Road.

Addressing the function, Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Yu Hong said that development of the Belt and Road Initiative needs sincerity and resolution and the vision of all parties. "China is willing to work closely with Nepal to seize the historical chance to develop concrete cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and bring China-Nepal relations to a new height," Yu said.

On the occasion, she pointed out various points to enhance the cooperation, namely strengthening policy coordination and consolidate mutual trust, expanding connectivity and sharing experience for economic development, promoting the unimpeded trade, deepening the financial integration and constructing the road for innovation, strengthening the people-to-people bond for mutual learning.

Experts were of view that there is a need of sincerity and political commitment for the implementation of the initiative from the Nepali side. They pointed out that Nepal's government should focus on some basic pre-requisites like connectivity, infrastructure development, reforms in laws, and policy amendments among others.

Dr Rajesh Kazi Shrestha, President of Nepal China Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, "We are eager to welcome investment under the Belt and Road Initiative in various possible sectors like hydropower, agriculture, trade related infrastructure, tourism, herbs and herbal products, natural resources and service sectors." Nearly 100 experts from different countries, investors, traders and business community members attended the one-day seminar.(@FahadShabbir)

Central Development Working Party (CDWP) Monday approved 24 projects worth Rs 184.8 billion, out of which 10 projects worth Rs 169.6 billion were referred to Executive Committee of National Economic Council'(ECNEC)

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Central Development Working Party (CDWP) Monday approved 24 projects worth Rs 184.8 billion, out of which 10 projects worth Rs 169.6 billion were referred to Executive Committee of National Economic Council'(ECNEC).

The meeting, chaired by Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Sartaj Aziz, in addition to the projects also approved 'one position paper' with a cost of Rs 709 million, said a press release here.

Among others, the meeting was attended by senior officials from federal and provincial governments as well as autonomous bodies. The projects presented for approval include energy, transport and communication, water resources, physical planning and housing, science and technology, governance, health and mass media.

In energy sector, the CDWP recommended a project on evacuation of power from Suki Kinari, Kohala and Mahl Hydro Power Project in Northern Areas worth Rs 73.6 billion to the ECNEC. The main objective of the project is construction of 500kV transmission network to provide interconnection facilities for evacuation of power from the said Hydro Power Plants.

Moreover, a project of feasibility study on developing mechanism for tariff based bidding of hydropower projects, review of feasibility studies for hydropower projects through local and foreign experts and capacity building of PPIB employees was approved with a cost of Rs 64.3 million.

The project will help enhance the capacity of PPIB. The CDWP approved 12 projects in transport and communication sector, out of which six were referred to the ECNEC. The projects include up gradation/ renovation of Bahawalpur, Raiwaind, Gujranwala, Karachi, Peshawar, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Lahore and Rawalpindi railway stations with an estimated cost of Rs 1.46 billion, replacement of old and obsolete signal gear from Lodhran-Multan-Khanewal-Shahdara Bagh Main line Section of Pakistan Railways at a cost of Rs 18.6 billion, improvement and widening of Chitral-Booni-Mastuj-Shandur Road with Rs 19.1 billion, construction/rehabilitation of four bridges (Muzhgole Bridge, Osaik Bridge, Pokel Bridge and repairing of Churan Bridge) with approach road and allied components at a cost of Rs.

544.6 million, construction of Ziarat Mor-Kach-Harnai Road and construction of Harnai Sanjavi Road at Rs 10.8 billion, construction of six lane overhead bridge at Imamia colony railway crossing Shahdara at Rs.

2.1 billion, purchase of road clearance/earth moving machinery for prompt emergency response in AJK at Rs 500 million, extension/up gradation of Bannu Airport for A-320/B-737 Aircraft Operations at Rs 715 Million), Improvement of Security at Karachi Int'l Airport, Multan Airport and Islamabad Airport at Rs.

2.2 billion, land acquisition for Rwp-Kahuta Road at Rs. 5.3 billion, Dualization of Rwp-Kahuta road at Rs 10.1 billion). Lastly, construction of northern by pass of Dera Ghazi Khan was recommended to the ECNEC at Rs.

5.6 billion. In physical planning and housing sector, the construction of Model Custom House at Gwadar was approved with a cost of 1.5 billion.' In water sector, the CDWP approved feasibility study, detailed engineering design and preparation of tender documents of Murunj Dam project was approved with a cost of Rs 371.7 million.

The Darawat Dam Project was also recommended to the ECNEC, which would be completed with a cost of Rs 11.8 Billion.' In Science and Technology section, the CDWP approved two projects including one position paper with the total cost of Rs 3.3 billion.

The position paper tends on subsidy to scholars aboard under culture exchange program with a cost of Rs 709 million. The project for Development of National University of Medical Sciences, Islamabad was also approved with a cost of Rs 2.6 Billion.' In governance, the CDWP recommended the Federal Programme under Access to Justice Program worth Rs 6.4 billion to the ECNEC.

In health sector, the CDWP approved three projects out of which one was referred to the ECNEC. The projects include establishment of a current cGMP complaint sera processing laboratory for capacity enhancement, biological production division, NIH Islamabad worth Rs 751.1 million.

A project titled establishment of centre for Neuro Sciences at PIMS, Islamabad was referred to the ECNEC worth Rs 7.4 billion. In addition, civil works for cancer hospital Islamabad was approved at a cost of Rs 1.99 billion.'The CDWP also approved two projects in mass media sector which included installation of 100KW Medium Wave Digital Transmitter at Mirpur for countering Cross-border Propaganda at a cost of Rs 143.8 million and rehabilitation of medium wave services for Muzaffarabad (AJK) with a cost of Rs 160.6 million.The number of Chinese visitors to Ukraine increased by 51.4 percent last year, as the two countries are enjoying close business ties and people-to-people exchanges, according to official statistics released here on Monday

KIEV, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The number of Chinese visitors to Ukraine increased by 51.4 percent last year, as the two countries are enjoying close business ties and people-to-people exchanges, according to official statistics released here on Monday.

A total of 31,114 Chinese citizens visited Ukraine last year, according to a report released by Ukraine's State Statistics Service. Most of them came to Ukraine for business, tourism or private purposes, the report said.

Ukraine introduced a visa-on-arrival policy for Chinese citizens at Kiev Boryspil Airport and the airport of the country's southern Black Sea resort of Odessa in June 2016. Chinese citizens can obtain 15-day entry visa if they have documents confirming the business or tourist purpose of the visit.Oracle Power PLC (LON:ORCP) , the UK energy developer ,has ticked off another requirement for the Thar thermal power station

LONDON,(UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) Oracle Power PLC (LON:ORCP) , the UK energy developer ,has ticked off another requirement for the Thar thermal power station. The Private Power and Infrastructure board has approved the issue of a Notice to Proceed (NOP) and Letter of Intent (LOI) to the company's subsidiary Thar Electricity (Private) Limited (TEPL). These approvals are for the development of a 700MW coal based power plant, as the first phase of a 1,400MW power plant. Originally, the plans were for a 660Mw first phase, but this been increased slightly to reflects new requirements in Pakistan for more efficient technology. Shahrukh Khan, Oracles chief executive, said the LOI is a major step towards completing the first stage of the Memorandum of Understanding with SCIG and PowerChina, its two Chinese partners. Due diligence is being undertaken by the Chinese firms ahead of the next stage of the MoU, which will frame their final development decision.

At that point, EPC contracts and definitive agreements will be entered and the Chinese partners will start investing in the project. Next steps will be the formal issue of the LOI and the NTP, which will require a performance guarantee of US$700,000. That will be followed by tariff and generation licence applications, which will require a performance guarantee of US$3.5mln.

Oracle will contribute an equity share of 12.1% to these. Following that, the consortium will agree a 30 year Power Purchase Agreement; a coal supply agreement and implementation agreement with the Pakistan government. Khan added that inclusion of the project in CPEC [China Pacific Economic Corridor] should assist fast-tracking of the project to financial close.Consulate General of Islamic Republic of Iran here will welcome and support any initiative and cooperation from Pakistani business community, especially of Sindh, and will play an active role in exchange of information on trade and investment avenues on both ends

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Consulate General of Islamic Republic of Iran here will welcome and support any initiative and cooperation from Pakistani business community, especially of Sindh, and will play an active role in exchange of information on trade and investment avenues on both ends.

"One of my key duties here, is to facilitate and develop political, economic, trade, academic and cultural relations and cooperation between Iran and Pakistan, specially development of trade relations with province of Sindh.

Therefore, all the efforts of my colleagues are dedicated to facilitate access to each other's markets," said Consul General of Iran in Karachi, Ahmad Mohammadi. Iranian Consul General was speaking at a reception hosted by him to celebrate 39th anniversary of victory of Islamic Revolution of Iran, here at the Consulate.

Many business, political and social personalities, besides media and diplomats from different countries attended the function, said press release here on Monday. Being the Consul General of Islamic Republic of Iran, he offered his best compliments, on the occasion of 39th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic revolution, to Hazrat Ayatollah Khamenei, who brought revolution, and Iranian President Dr.

Hasan Rouhani, and all Iranians particularly those living in Pakistan. As a diplomat in Karachi for last one year, Ahmad Mohammadi recalled, he enjoyed a very good stay: having very friendly relations with SindhGovernment functionaries specially with Sindh Governor Muhammad Zubair, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, and Speaker Sindh Assembly Agha Siraj Durrani, great Ulema, intellectual, business community, Local Government authorities, Federal Government organisations and media besides diplomatic missions here.

"I extend my thanks to the government of Pakistan and Sindh provincial bodies for their cooperation," he said.

He said in pursuance of the desire of the high-ranking authorities of Iran and Pakistan, last year as well, the embassy and consulates general of Iran in Pakistan made their best efforts for further strengthening the long historical relations between these brotherly Islamic countries.

The recent visits to Pakistan by the President of Iran, Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly of Iran, Foreign Minister and many other Iranian authorities and the reciprocal visits by Pakistani authorities to Iran were the examples of the deep relations and positively directed mutual cooperation between them, he said.

The Consul General said that for promoting bilateral trade, Iranian and Pakistani companies had an active presence in the exhibitions of the two countries and had signed many agreements with each other.

This showed huge economic and trade potential existing on both sides, which must be utilized fully to the benefit of the two nations. He said the trade between the two countries showed 33 percent growth as compared to the previous year.

Over last nine months, as a result of the facilities provided by the Iranian side to Pakistani rice exporters, the volume of Pakistani rice export to Iran had jumped up by 42 percent. Besides, he added, in view of the cultural wealth and tourism potential of the two countries, the Iranian Embassy and the Consulates made efforts for promoting pilgrimage and tourism travels between the two countries.

Iranian envoy was confident that during the current year also, Iran-Pakistan friendly relations and cooperation would develop further. Iranian Consul General also recalled and appreciated that Pakistan was being the first country recognizing the Islamic Revolution of Iran.Pakistan and Italy Monday signed a Memorandum of Intent (MOI) for cooperation in development of marble and granite sector of Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Pakistan and Italy Monday signed a Memorandum of Intent (MOI) for cooperation in development of marble and granite sector of Pakistan.

The MOI was reached between Pakistan Stone Development Company (PASDEC), Ministry of Industries & Production and Confindustria Marmomacchine, Marble Association of Italy, said a press release here.

Under the MOI, the Italian association would provide technical expertise and support for transfer of know-how, technical and scientific education for operators, besides services like international communication and marketing.

These objectives would be achieved through a Technical' Scientific and International Trade Centre to be established in Pakistan for which the Italian Marble Association and PASDEC will contribute an equal amount of 400,000 Euros each.

The Centre would be equipped with latest machinery for human resource and skill development in the field of Marble and Granite at the Marble City, Risalpur.

The MOI has already been approved by the Federal Cabinet in its meeting held on January 3, 2018.

The project is expected to be completed within a period of two years and it would also serve as an export promotion centre for the stones being extracted in Pakistan. The MOI was signed by the Chief Executive Officer PASDEC Zahid Maqsood Sheikh and Flavio Marabelli Honorary President of Confindustria Marmomacchine, Italy.

PASDEC CEO Zahid Maqsood said more MOIs would be signed with other stone producing countries going to further upgrade mining and processing methodology in the country. He informed that a technical group from Italy would soon be visiting Pakistan to evaluate and set time lines for execution of the project.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Commander V Corps  Sindh Lieutenant General Shahid Baig Mirza Hilal-i-Imtiaz (M) has said that its a matter of pride for him as a Pakistani to witness the grand energy project in progress in Thar Block II, under the control of the Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC). He held the Thar Foundations efforts in employing and awarding contracts to locals as commendable.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018) : Commander V Corps  Sindh Lieutenant General Shahid Baig Mirza Hilal-i-Imtiaz (M) has said that its a matter of pride for him as a Pakistani to witness the grand energy project in progress in Thar Block II, under the control of the Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC).

He held the Thar Foundations efforts in employing and awarding contracts to locals as commendable. Corp Commander Karachi visited the Thar Block II along with his family yesterday and observed the mining operations at the countrys first open-pit coal mine, under-construction power plant, and community development projects undertaken from the platform of the Thar Foundation, a nonprofit supported by the SECMC and Engro Powergen Thar Limited (EPTL). Appreciating the technical aspects of the project, Baig also expressed vehemently, its the first project of its kind and its been done in such a meticulous manner that I feel proud as a Pakistani.

Im sure the project will prove to be the key game-changer in the countrys energy sector. Steps taken by the company chief Shamsuddin Ahmed Shaikh for the community development are praiseworthy, he added. Speaking about the livelihood opportunities given by the Company to the local workforce, Corp Commander opined that the development in any area is not development if it does not benefit the local population.

SECMCs initiatives in this regard have taken some good steps for on-boarding of the local community and, therefore, the local population has started owning the project as their own. The Thar Coal project will prove to be an important milestone in countrys development, and all projects of the CPEC are significant for Pakistan and, therefore, for Pakistan Army, Corp Commander further expressed. Reassuring of security for CPEC projects, the Lt General said, Pakistan Army and its subordinate forces will not allow a scratch on CPEC projects in Sindh, and foolproof security has been ensured in this regard. He added that they are extending full support to the company administration and that people working on the project should keep the up the good work as they are vigilant about their safety.

He also mentioned that their teams keep undertaking security audit frequently to that the project is successful. Corp Commander Karachi also visited the bio-saline agriculture project, model house, green park as well the Thar Foundation-supported Primary school at village Mansingh Bheel where he mingled with the community and spent time with kids.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO), Mushtaq Ahmad Sukhera has said that the FTO is taking all out measures to address the taxpayers grievances and rectify the complaints by carrying out independent investigations about Tax Maladministration.

FAISALABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018) : Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO), Mushtaq Ahmad Sukhera has said that the FTO is taking all out measures to address the taxpayers grievances and rectify the complaints by carrying out independent investigations about Tax Maladministration. Addressing the members of Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA) here on Monday, Mushtaq Ahmad Sukhera said that textile industry holds foremost importance in the economy with its 57% share in countrys exports and 8.5% in GDP.

Textile exporters are major contributors to the economy and his office will leave no stone unturned to address the core issues of exporters and industrialists. He expressed disappointment over widening of trade deficit and heavy reliance upon foreign borrowings.

Countrys exports have been declined from 25 billion Dollars to 21 billion; whereas export growth of other countries in the region has increased many folds, he said. Expressing concerning over lowest tax to GDP ratio, Federal Tax Ombudsman said that FBR has been asked to revise the criteria of tax collection system and evolve easy and simple mechanism so that people would come into tax net voluntarily instead of avoiding it.

On the issue of huge pendency in refund regime, he assured his full support for expeditious processing and payment of all outstanding refunds. Responding to a suggestion of appointment of Grievance Commissioners at RTO levels, with powers to monitor progress of the complaints on daily basis and issue appropriate orders for smooth implementation to redress the grievances, he assured to work out on the proposal.

Earlier, Chairman PTEA Shaiq Jawed, in his welcome address appreciated the role of Federal Tax Ombudsman for accountability of maladministration on part of the tax authorities.

Pointing out the major issues, he said that extreme cash flow crunch has squeezed the financial streams and breading the liquidity jerks as billions of rupees of textile exporters are stuck up in refund regime. Under sales tax refund regime, no RPO is issued since one year; whereas in terms of law, RPO should be issued within seven days after filing of refund claim and FBR is bound to make payment in next 15 days.

Elaborating, he said that sales tax claims u/s 66 amounts to Rs. 10 billion are stuck up since 4 years; whereas Rs. 17.5 billion are freezed in the name of deferred amounts. Similarly around Rs.

8.5 billion are stuck up on account of custom rebate from one year. Seeking FTOs support, Shaiq Jawed said that such huge pendency in refund regime has slowed down the growth pace and if that amounts are released, exporters can deploy the capital towards expanding businesses, which in turn will help Pakistans export earnings grow.

He proposed that advisers may be appraised to follow time lines as defined in the Reforms Act in letter and spirit. Furthermore, FTO office should track the complaints till final disposal and implementations in a timely manner.

In complaint wherein representation is filed before the President and time of 90 days has lapsed, FTO office should immediately take up the matter with the agency and ensure compliance. Later, PTEA insignia was presented to the Federal Tax Ombudsman. A large number of textile exporters were present in the meeting.Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Malik Tahir Javaid has said that potential to export goods Thailand from Pakistan was far more diversified and sizeable than the current one

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Malik Tahir Javaid has said that potential to export goods Thailand from Pakistan was far more diversified and sizeable than the current one.

He was speaking at Thai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, board of Trade of Thailand, where Deputy Secretary General Kasemsit Pathomsak, Section Project Manager Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited Kulkanlaya Kritnoi, Managing Director MICAP Machineries Limited Mingpant Chaya, Thai businessmen and the LCCI delegation members also spoke on the occasion and showed keen interest in partnership with their Thai counterparts, according to Lahore Chamber's spokesman here Monday.

The LCCI president said that Pakistan was already exporting cotton, fish and other sea food, knitted fabric, meat, raw hides and skins, machinery, medical & optical apparatus and pharmaceutical products etc to Thailand, however, more efforts needed in this direction.

Pakistan and Thailand, he said, had very strong credentials to give new strengths to their respective economies as both the countries had good geographical locations making them a safe heaven for investment.

Malik Tahir Javaid mentioned that volume of trade between the two countries was much below their respective potential in various sectors of economy and lack of dissemination of business-related information could be one of the biggest reasons.

The import and export profiles of the two countries indicated that there was a potential of increasing Pakistan's export to Thailand, while Pakistan also had huge potential of importing goods from Thailand.

He said that business-to-business contacts and one-to-one meetings were the most productive means of marketing country's products.

He said that Pakistan of its location was a gateway to markets of Central Asian Republics and the Gulf countries, citing that any investment made in Pakistan would find markets in the entire region.

Industrial parks development would be a good choice for Thai business tycoons as they would surely be supported by Pakistan government as well. Malik said that Thai investors, who were interested to weigh up the energy sector of Pakistan especially untapped potential of coal and renewable/alternate energy, would be facilitated all the way.

LCCI was desirous of developing a close linkage among business support organizations to ensure continuity in mutual efforts of both the countries to increase bilateral trade volume. "It is necessary that Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Boards of Investment of the two countries play their due role to further expand economic and commercial ties.

Trade fairs and single country exhibitions can be arranged on reciprocal basis to achieve this goal," he suggested. On this occasion, Mr. Kasemsit Pathomsak said that Pakistan had made substantial progress over the years and bilateral trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries had further strengthened.

He pointed out that there was immense potential to enhance trade as major exports from Pakistan to Thailand including yarn and fibre, chemicals, finished oils, edible meat etc but there were plenty of other products which could also capture share in Thai market, however, these needed effective marketing and promotional activities.

He urged the business communities of both the countries to explore more avenues of enhancing trade and look for opportunities for joint ventures.Editor's Note: For an updated and more expansive story, click here.

Activist Michael Rajner has accused Fort Lauderdale mayoral candidates Vice Mayor Bruce Roberts and Commissioner Dean Trantalis of not supporting a non-discrimination ordinance to protect LGBT residents.

Fort Lauderdale Commissioners and mayoral candidates Bruce Roberts and Dean Trantalis have lied and broken their promise to bring forward an LGBT-inclusive non-discrimination ordinance. Homophobia is alive and well on the Fort Lauderdale City Commission, wrote Rajner in a Feb. 6 Twitter post.

On Feb. 7, Rajner, who cited the $1.5 billion that LGBT visitors spent in Fort Lauderdale in 2016, spoke before the Fort Lauderdale Commission and said its incumbent upon the city to make a statement in support of the civil rights of all groups.

Were worried about the erosion of other rights. Its unfortunate the city doesnt have an ordinance itself on non-discrimination that also protects LGBT people. I had thought one would have been coming forward by now and thats most regrettable.

At the meeting, Mayor Jack Seiler responded to Rajner and said that Broward Countys non-discrimination ordinance covers the city.

According to the countys ordinance, Discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, pregnancy and gender expression or identity are unlawful in employment, housing, and public accommodations. The ordinance also makes it illegal to retaliate against someone for filing charges.

I think Broward Countys actually encompasses ours, too. Thats one of the reasons Ive said we have not created new ordinances. Broward countys ordinances apply to us. I fully support Broward Countys ordinances and Ill leave it at that, Seiler said.

In an interview with SFGN, Trantalis agreed with Seiler.

I really dont know what hes [Rajners] talking about. The Broward Ordinance, of which I was co-author and saw the successful passage of, was intended to cover all the cities. We feel we are under the auspices of the county law. Hes not even a Fort Lauderdale resident. Hes trying to interfere in what we do in Fort Lauderdale . . . badmouthing us because we dont all agree, Trantalis said.

Rajner doesnt dispute that the city is already covered. Instead he wants the commission to be proactive in case the state legislature passes a law pre-empting home rule authority, which would void many human rights acts around the state.

Its shameful an openly gay city commissioner has wasted so much time with petty non-binding resolutions and proclamations when hes had more than one term in office to codify these protections in city ordinance, Rajner said.

Rajner spoke to SFGN as an activist, but he also serves on the Broward County Human Rights Board and as the LGBTQ Representative for the Broward County Democratic Party.

In an interview with SFGN, Roberts said hes in favor of the city adopting its own non-discrimination ordinance, but he wants to wait until after the election. I will definitely move forward. My concern is I dont want it to fail.

Asked who on the commission he thought would vote against it, Id rather not get into that right now . . . My track record on these issues in the past should be taken into account, said Roberts, referring to his vote to support a pro-gay marriage city resolution and protections for LGBT employees in the citys procurement process. The bottom line here is Im supportive.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Ambassador of Turkey to Pakistan, Mustafa Yurdakul called on Federal Minister for Defence Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain here on Monday

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :`Ambassador of Turkey to Pakistan, Mustafa Yurdakul called on Federal Minister for Defence Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain here on Monday.

The minister said that defence industrial and technical cooperation was integral part of strategic relationships between the countries. He expressed the satisfaction on the ongoing cooperation in defence technical field.

In a separate meeting with Ambassador of Netherlands, Ardi Stoios-Braken, the minister discussed the existing cordial relationship between the two countries.

He said that the existing relations could be translated into an active interaction in the field of defence.

He expressed the desire to identify the avenues for establishing joint ventures related to the defence products. He suggested that exchange of visits at various levels would explore the avenues of prospective collaboration in the spheres of defence and defence production industry.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

The academic session of the schools would commence from April 1 while academic session of the Cambridge-O and A level as well as the academic session of the colleges would commence from August 1

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The academic session of the schools would commence from April 1 while academic session of the Cambridge-O and A level as well as the academic session of the colleges would commence from August 1.

It was decided in a meeting of the Steering Committee on Education held with Sindh Minister for Education and Literacy Jam Mehtab Hussain Dahar in chair, here at Sindh Assembly building's Committee room on Monday, according to a press release.

The meeting decided that the students from class I to III would be promoted to next class on the basis of the performance and assessment. Examinations up to class VIII will be completed by March 10 and result will be announced by March 31.

Theory examinations of class IX and X shall commence from March 29 and their results will be announced by July 15 by all Boards of Sindh and the board of Secondary Education Karachi will announce the result by July 31.

Examinations of XI and XII will commence from April 24 and the result of XII will be announced by all Boards except Karachi by August 31 while Karachi Board would announce by September 15. Non -teaching staff will not be assigned invigilation duties in schools and colleges.

It was decided that summer vacations would be observed from June 1 to July 31 while winter vacation will be observed from December 22 to 31. It was decided that monitoring teams would be formed to stop use of unfair means in examinations while the teachers will be bound to perform examinations duties.

Violators will be dealt strictly and it was also considered that to encourage teachers for examinations duties their packages will be enhanced. All educational institutions will celebrate a week for sports.

Secretary Colleges Pervaiz Ahmed Seehar briefed the participants regarding objectives of the meeting. Pervaiz Seehar while briefing the meeting emphasized upon them to take all possible steps to curb use of unfair means in the examinations and create awareness among all stakeholder including parents, teachers, and students regarding drastic effects of cheating in examinations.

Addressing the meeting, Jam Mehtab said that all stakeholder have to work jointly to eradicate use of unfair means in the examinations. He said that concerted efforts is the only way that we can save our future generation and to improve education in Sindh.

He asked them to play their positive role to stop use of unfair means in the examinations and improve education in Sindh while Secretary colleges assured them his full cooperation in implementing the policies.

Secretary Colleges Pervaiz Ahmed Seehar, Special Secretary Education Schools Nasir Abbas, chairmen of all educational boards, Director General Private Institutions, representatives of private institutions, officers and educationists also attended the meeting.UNITED NATIONS, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Feb, 2018 ) :Raising alarm over continuing civilian casualties amid increased hostilities in war-ravaged Yemen, the United Nations human rights chief underscored that all parties to the conflict are obliged under international humanitarian law to ensure that civilians are not harmed.

The situation in Taizz governorate " located in south-west Yemen " is of particular concern, he said. "Civilians are under fire on all sides, as Houthi and affiliated forces carry out sniper attacks and indiscriminate shelling, and the Saudi-led Coalition continues to conduct airstrikes," the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra ad Al Hussein, said in a statement on Monday.

"For the civilians in the city of Taizz, the conflict is not just escalating but inescapable." Between 1 and 8 February, Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) verified that 27 people were killed and 76 injured in Yemen ' more than double the number of civilian casualties confirmed during the previous week.

The actual number could be higher, the office said. Among those killed were three children who lost their lives in shelling by Houthi forces in Al Qahirah district (northern Taizz) on 6 February; and a woman working as field monitor for the Yemen National Commission of Inquiry in Salh district on 8 February, it said.

Elsewhere in the country, eight civilians " including a woman and a child " were killed and 32 injured on 4 February when three Saudi-led coalition's airstrikes hit a Ministry of the Interior building in Bani Al Harith district, in Amanat Al Asimah Governorate.

OHCHR officials who visited the scene said that there did not appear to be any military objects near the building, which had previously been hit in January 2016. Also in the first eight days of February, OHCHR document sniping and indiscriminate shelling by Houthi forces in frontline areas in Hudaydah and Hajja governorates, and airstrikes by the Coalition on areas under the control of the Houthi forces, including in Sana a, Sa Ada, Hudaydah and Amran Governorates.

Underscoring the obligation on all parties to the conflict to ensure that civilian populations are not harmed, the UN human rights chief reiterated that "any intentional, direct attack against civilians or civilian objects is considered a serious violation of international humanitarian law." Since March 2015 and as of 8 February, OHCHR has documented 15,467 civilian casualties, with 5,974 killed and 9,493 injured.

APP/ift(@ChaudhryMAli88)

NEW YORK, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Pakistan's Ambassador to the United Nations, Maleeha Lodhi, has been named as one of the world's "five successful women diplomats" by a popular Russian news website, according to a report by Russia's official news agency.

The report, citing the website -- Gazeta.ru -- was carried by RIA Novosti, a state-owned domestic Russian-language news agency. "Gazeta.ru", which has a million visitors on a daily basis, honours women who have followed in the footsteps of the defunct Soviet Union's "highly acclaimed" diplomat, Alexandra Kollontai, and succeeded in the profession.

Kollontai, a Russian Communist Revolutionary, served as ambassador to Norway, one of the first women from that country to hold such a post. Describing Ambassador Lodhi as "one of the most famous female figures in the Muslim world," Gazeta.ru noted that she twice served as Pakistan's Ambassador to the United States .

Another important diplomatic assignment she held was as the High Commissioner to Britain, after an illustrious career in journalism, especially as editor of The News International, one of largest Pakistani English-language newspapers.

"Gazeta.ru" also noted that Dr. Lodhi was the first Pakistani woman to serve as Permanent Representative and chief delegate to the United Nations. In 1994, she was selected by Time magazine as one of a hundred people in the world "the only one from Pakistan" who would help to shape the 21st century.

Ambassador Lodhi served on UN Secretary General's Advisory board on Disarmament Affairs (2001-2005), and is a member of the Advisory Council of the London-based Institute of Strategic Studies. Other distinguished women on the list are: Eleonora Mitrofanova, a Russian diplomat who also served as Deputy Director General of Paris-based UNESCO; Roza Otunbayeva, a Kyrgyz diplomat who twice served as foreign minister of the former Soviet Kirghizia; Rene Jones-Bos, a Dutch diplomat who served as Netherlands ambassador to Russia, and Alva Myrdal, a Swedish diplomat who also served in the UNESCO system, where she studied the problems of disarmament.

In 1967, she joined the Social Democratic Cabinet of Ministers Tage Erlander as special commissioner for disarmament issues, eventually winning the Nobel Peace prize. Detailing her career, the Russian website noted that Ambassador Lodhi's success in journalism set the stage for her diplomatic career.

She was first selected by the late Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto to serve as Pakistan's Ambasador to the United States. She served in that capacity for three years and was to later return to hold this post for another term. APP/iftTen persons including nine women lost their lives while three others received injuries in a head on collision between a Suzuki Pickup and a dumper on Hyderabad -Tando Muhammad Khan Road near Village Noonari on Monday morning

HYDERABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Ten persons including nine women lost their lives while three others received injuries in a head on collision between a Suzuki Pickup and a dumper on Hyderabad -Tando Muhammad Khan Road near Village Noonari on Monday morning.

According to SSP Hyderabad, the deceased and injured were salesgirls and a salesmen of a company who were going to Tando Muhammad Khan in a Suzuki Pickup for marketing of the company's products.

When the Suzuki Pickup reached near Village Noonari in the jurisdiction of Husri Police Station, a speedy dumper coming from opposite direction collided with it, as a result of which, all passengers of the pickup received serious injuries.

Soon after the accident, the Police and rescue workers rushed the spot and started rescue operation.

The Police though seized the dumper but failed to arrest the driver who managed to escape from the spot.

The salesman Zubair and nine others identified as Sajida, Hina, Rehana, Shabana, Safia, Shirimati Aneeta, Yasmeen, Fareeda and Nasreen breathed their last before they could get any first aid. The deceased persons were the residents of Latifabad, Hyderabad City and Kotri.

Three others namely Saira d/o Muhammad Idrees Ansari, Sadaf and Nasreen who received injuries were shifted to Liaquat University Hospital along with the bodies of deceased persons. The bodies of the deceased persons were handed over to their relatives after completion of medico-legal formalities while treatment is being provided to injured persons.RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The five-day anti-polio campaign to administer polio drops to 8,40,000 children below five years of age in the entire district has been extended for one more day due to heavy rain.

The campaign, started in the district Monday would now end on February 17. Today, the vaccinators started administering polio drops but had to stop because of heavy rain and snowfall in Tehsil Murree and informed the district administration that they could not continue the campaign any further.

Upon this, the District Administration Government informed the Punjab Health department about the situation. The health department officials asked the district administration to extend it for more one day .

Now, the campaign will end on February 17 instead of 16. Incharge anti-polio drive Hussain Ahmed told APP "We have so far administered polio drops to 10,000 children who were available at schools while the remaining set target would be achieved as the weather condition changes".

While briefing about arrangements, he said that during the campaign 2739 polio teams including 2333 mobile teams,287 fixed points,119 transit points,221 Union council medical officers and 496 area incharges would complete the task of vaccination.

He informed that total 1624 refusal case were reported during the last drive out of which 1362 had been covered. Hussain said Polio was a National issue adding it was responsibility of all to play effective role to make the country free form crippling disease.

He said with the coordinated efforts of government and World Health Organization WHO, polio workers had been trained to accomplish the target set of vaccinating 8,40,000 children below five years of age.

He said along-with all government initiatives, active participation of parents was needed to make the campaign successful. He urged the citizens, particularly the parents, to come forward and play their role for the elimination of the crippling disease from society. "The parents should cooperate with special teams so that the set target could be achieved.ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Federal Minister for Climate Change, Senator Mushahidullah Khan Monday said, diversity of landscapes and climates in Pakistan allow a wide variety of trees and animals to flourish.

Addressing the launching ceremony of Green Pakistan Stamp on first anniversary' of Green Pakistan Programme, the minister said that tress and animals suffer due to increasing population and climate change.

He said that share of public investment through federal and provincial governments was quite low. Resultantly, efforts made towards mitigation, do not commensurate with the rate of deterioration occurring in natural resources of the country.

He further added Prime Minister of Pakistan expressed serious concern on high rate of deforestation and rapid decrease in wildlife population of the country. Accordingly, the "Green Pakistan Program for reviving forestry and wildlife resources in the country started on 9th February, 2017.

He also said the program on Revival of Forest Resources has an estimated cost of Rs3.652 billion, whereas that on wildlife is Rs.1.065billion. Since a large scale national program has been launched on making the country green hence it required commemoration at national level.

He highlighted that inauguration of commemorative stamp mark the completion of one year of the Green Pakistan Program.

The 300,000 stamps printed on the occasion will be distributed within and outside the country by postal service of Pakistan.

It will give a softer image of Pakistan to the international community. He also highlighted that Climate change is a very grave issue that requires awareness among masses. From today "GharGharAikShajar" a door to door plantation campaign has been launched to create awareness among masses.

On the occasion, the Inspector General Forest Syed MehmoodNasir highlighted that Green Pakistan Program was playing an active role in increasing forest cover of Pakistan. It is a great initiative to combat climate change.The Postal representative said that these commemorative stamps will be sent to embassies and International postal union.

The ceremony was attended by Parliamentary Secretary to Climate Change Romeena Khursheed Alam officers of postal department, forestry, Green Pakistan Program, Dr. Ghulam Rasool. Green Pakistan program was inaugurated on feburary 9, 2017 by former Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif by planting a tree at Prime Minister office.

The first anniversary was celebrated by planting a tree at Prime Minister office on Feburary 9, 2018.Minister of State for Education Engineer Baligh-ur-Rehman Monday said continuity of democracy was the only solution to all the problems being faced by the country and it was collective responsibility of the political parties to work for the purpose

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Minister of State for education Engineer Baligh-ur-Rehman Monday said continuity of democracy was the only solution to all the problems being faced by the country and it was collective responsibility of the political parties to work for the purpose.

The mandate given by the people to a certain party should not be stolen, he said, adding that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leadership had played a negative role in the recent change of government in Balochistan.

Talking to a news channel, the minister said the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) would win the NA-154 Lodhran bye-election with a thumping majority, which would in fact be a victory for democracy.

Replying to a question, he said Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan had always violated the constitution as evident from his reluctance to appear before the Election Commission and courts while former prime minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif along with his family appeared before the courts.

To another query, he said Mushahid Hussain Syed was a seasoned politician and had played a great role as parliamentarian. He was an asset not only for the PML-N, but also for the parliament and country, he added.Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo Monday said that the development of infrastructure in Quetta city is included in the priorities of the provincial government

QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo Monday said that the development of infrastructure in Quetta city is included in the priorities of the provincial government.

He expressed these views while visiting parts of the city including Saryab Road, Musa Ismail Colony, Sirki Lango, Qilli Ismail, Satellite Town and Zarghoon Road and heard problems of the citizens.

Provincial Minister for Interior Mir Sarfaraz Bugti and Advisor for food Ziaullah Lengo also accompanied him. The CM said that the closure schemes of drinking water will be activated soon, which will reduce the water problem.

The Chief Minister expressed his keenness on the emergence of cleanliness of roads and drains, and instructed immediate repair and construction of roads. The Chief Minister took notice of the construction of a traffic police building in the center of Square in Satellite Town and instructed to stop the work immediately and issued orders against the builders.

Talking to the local people, Bizenjo said that Quetta city is our home and its cleanliness, maintenance is our responsibility. He also instructed all relevant authorities to focus on the construction of roads and drains of Quetta city.(@rukhshanmir)

The first phase of Joint Naval Exercise, Naseem Al Bahar XI being conducted at Port Al Jubail, KSA between Pakistan Navy (PN) and Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) has concluded, says a news release issued here on Monday

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The first phase of Joint Naval Exercise, Naseem Al Bahar XI being conducted at Port Al Jubail, KSA between Pakistan Navy (PN) and Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) has concluded, says a news release issued here on Monday.

The first phase of exercise was comprised of a series of harbour activities to provide synergy in different domains of naval operations. It also afforded opportunity for both navies to conduct operational planning for the joint naval operations to be conducted in subsequent sea phase of the exercise.

During the first phase, various training exercises were organised onboard PN and RSNF ships and harbour facilities. Planning modules on conduct of amphibious landing operations, escorting operations, sniper/camouflage techniques and Mine Counter Measures procedures were rehearsed by the two navies.

Mission Commander of Pakistan Navy and Exercise Director from RSNF closely monitored and supervised the training activities. Earlier, a brief about the joint naval exercises was conducted wherein details of different evolutions and exercises were discussed by both sides.

Mission Commander of PN and Exercise Director from RSNF were also present at the Opening Brief.

The Joint PN-RSNF Naval Exercise, Naseem Al Bahr is aimed at enhancing interoperability and sharpen the tactical proficiency in Counter Piracy, Anti Air & Surface Warfare and Mine Countermeasure Warfare.

These exercises will help in developing synergy in operations against asymmetric, air, surface and mine threats. On completion of harbour phase, next phase of the Exercise will include joint naval operations at sea.

Concurrently, Pakistani and RSNF Marines are also engaged in Joint Marine Exercise Deraa Al Sahil. Current exercise is 11th of Naseem Al Bahr series and will continue till February 17 in Saudi Arabian waters.

Conduct of Joint Maritime Exercise between Pakistan Navy and RSNF in present geo-political milieu assumes great significance and will go a long way in enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries.

Since the inception of biennial exercise Naseem Al Bahr in 1993, it has matured as an advanced level maritime exercise involving almost all facets of naval forces. The level of participation from both sides signifies the trust and mutual confidence which prevails between the two brotherly countries.Japan has ordered hotel owners to no longer discriminate against same-sex couples.

The countrys Ministry of Health issued a directive to hotels stating that refusing LGBT guest would violate anti-discrimination laws, according to PinkNews. The directive bolsters the Hotel Business Law which was already in place to prevent discrimination against same-sex couples.

Previously, same-sex couples were often not allowed to stay at the hotels despite it being illegal to refuse them. A 2016 investigation by Japanese news publication Ashai Shimbun found one couple turned away because of their sexualities.

Told clearly (by the hotel employee), I faced a barrier in society that I probably knew existed, but had not encountered before, the 31-year-old man said. It is unreasonable for a group of people with certain qualities to be cast out all together.

Osaka prefecture received a complaint from the man and later said they would not let the incident happen again, according to the Shimbun. The hotel later said that it was a mistake the guests were turned away, but hotel policy was to keep them in separate rooms.

Kim Ik-kyon, a human cultures professor at Kobe Gakuin University, said that the hotels have only been accepting of same-sex couples the past 10 years.

It is a very good thing that the 31-year-old man raised his voice against the treatment he and his partner received, he said. Love hotels should use the case as a good opportunity to understand same-sex couples.Punjab Governor Malik Muhammad Rafiq Rajwana said on Monday the government was making sincere efforts to resolve problems of the people and providing basic facilities at their door steps through prudent utilization of limited resources

MULTAN, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Punjab Governor Malik Muhammad Rafiq Rajwana said on Monday the government was making sincere efforts to resolve problems of the people and providing basic facilities at their door steps through prudent utilization of limited resources.

Talking to people during his visit to a village in the suburbs of Multan, the Governor said that development needs of the people were being met on priority, says an official release. To a demand of the people for construction of a railway underpass to connect union council No 32 with UC-40, Governor said that he has sought a feasibility report from the commissioner.

He added that the project would be approved and executed provided engineers did not identify any technical hurdle. He, however, added that an overhead steel bridge would be built to facilitate pedestrians in case engineers pointed out any technical problem.

Notables of the area including Sheikh Saleem, Sheikh Asim, Malik Naveed Iqbal, Shabbir Ansari, Hafiz Ajmal and others were present.Khyber Pakhtunkhawa Chief Minister Pervez Khattak Monday inaugurated the long awaited project of establishing first ever Zoo in provincial capital

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Khyber Pakhtunkhawa Chief Minister Pervez Khattak Monday inaugurated the long awaited project of establishing first ever Zoo in provincial capital.

The project took two years to complete and would be featuring an aviary and cages of wild animals including lions, monkeys and many other species. The zoo is spread over an area of 24 acres and situated in Rahatabad area.

The idea of setting up a zoo in Peshawar was first floated during the previous government, when a group of students of a private school system had collected signatures of many citizens and appealed the then chief minister KP Amir Haider Hoti to announce construction of a zoo here.

Peshawar Development Authority (PDA) offered to provide a land in Regi Lalma for Rs240 million, which was beyond the allocated funds for the zoo. Later the authority suggested Dheri Zardad as project site, along the Nowshera-Charsadda Motorway but it was also dropped as it was not easily accessible.

In November 2016, the PTI government approved and allocated 24 acres land near PFI here near University of Peshawar for the project and completed in two years.KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Feb, 2018 ) :University of Karachi students secured the best team award and positions in individual category at All Pakistan Speech competition held at D.A Degree College, Karachi, an oficial said here on Sunday.

Hafsa Tahir from Mass Communication Department KU secured first position in English category, Suleman Asif stood second in urdu category while Ammar Abbasi from political science department secured third position.

More than 22 teams from reputed varsities of the country participated in the competition in which KU secured the first position. Students Advisor, KU Dr.Syed Asim Ali congratulated the winning students and added that KU students have the potential to prove themselves in any academic and co-curricular activities.

He vowed to continue supporting students for such co-curricular activities. APP/pas(@FahadShabbir)

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on the request of Ishtiaq Ahmed, the father of Intizar Ahmed who was killed in an incident of firing on January 13, 2018 at Seaview constituted a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to invetiage and interrogate the murder case.

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018) : Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on the request of Ishtiaq Ahmed, the father of Intizar Ahmed who was killed in an incident of firing on January 13, 2018 at Seaview constituted a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to invetiage and interrogate the murder case. Ishtiaq Ahmed along with his lawyer and brother went to CM House at Gate No.

2 with the request to meet with Sindh Chief Minister. The security staff members told Mr Ishtaiq Ahmed that the chief minister was out of office and without his appointment he could not meet him. He stayed there for few minutes when the the chief minister was informed on telephone about Ishtiaqs urgent meeting request.

The chief minister directed the staff to sit Mr Ishtaiq in his chamber.

The chief minister came and met him there and on his request the chief minister Home Secretary Qazi Shahid Pervez to constitute a Joint Investigation Team under Additional IG CTD and issue notification within an hour.

The Home Secretary vide notification No.(LE-I)HD/08-04/2018(JIT) constituted a six-member committee headed by Adl IG CTD Sanaullah Abbasi. The other members are DIG South, ISI representative (not below the rank of Major), IG Representative (of equivalent rank of SP), Pakistan Rangers (Gazetted officer), Special branch (equivalent rank of SP) and a representative of M.I (not below than the rank of major). The notification says the JIT shall investigate/interrogate the matter within 15 days and submit the report to Home department for necessary action.(@rukhshanmir)

The polling of by-election in NA-154 Lodhran on Monday remained peaceful and no untoward incident was reported from any polling station

MULTAN, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The polling of by-election in NA-154 Lodhran on Monday remained peaceful and no untoward incident was reported from any polling station. The polling started at 8:00 am and continued till 5:00 pm without any interval.

Polling process in 338 polling stations was carried out under the supervision of law enforcers. The seat in NA-154 Lodhran had fallen vacant in the wake of disqualification of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Jahangir Tareen by the Supreme Court in December 2017.

The government has deployed security personnel, including army officials, in the constituency in view of avoiding any untoward situation and to ensure free and fair of elections. The PTI fielded Jahangir's son Ali Khan Tareen, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz Iqbal Shah and Pakistan Peoples' Party Mirza Muhammad Ali Baig.

Another seven candidates are contesting as Independents. Jahangir Tareen, while speaking to the media after casting his vote, stated that there was no possibility of rigging in the by-election today with the presence of army personnel outside polling stations.

He said the PTI would respond to the Election Commission of Pakistan's notice of violating its code of conduct, adding that the institution did not take any notice when the PML-N legislators were running the campaign for their candidate.

Tareen said that he would accept the result of the by-poll whatever it may be but added that the PTI candidate will surely defeat his opponents. However, Iqbal Shah, the candidate of PML-N also observed that he would defeat opponents as people would reposed confidence in policies of the incumbent government.The Executive Board meeting of National Accountability Bureau (NAB), presided over by its Chairman Justice (Retd) Javed Iqbal, Monday approved inquiries and investigations into alleged malpractices by organizations and individuals

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The Executive Board meeting of National Accountability Bureau (NAB), presided over by its Chairman Justice (Retd) Javed Iqbal, Monday approved inquiries and investigations into alleged malpractices by organizations and individuals.

The NAB chairman ordered to complete all inquiries and investigations within the given time-frame and warned the officials that no case should be delayed for indefinite period, said a press release.

The board approved investigation against former head of Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) Dr Manzoor Hussain Soomro and others for alleged misuse of authority by making illegal appointments in the Foundation and spending money on over 20 foreign and 90 local official tours causing millions of rupees loss to national kitty.

The meeting approved an inquiry against officials of Pakistan Agricultural Research Council Islamabad for making over 200 illegal appointments. The board also approved an inquiry against CDA officials and others for selling Plot Number 11 in Sector G-6 Civic Center Islamabad, on nominal rates.

It also approved an inquiry against officials of Privatization Commission of Pakistan for violating PEPRA rules in privatization of American Fertilizer Ltd Daudkhail Mianwali, causing around Rs 3.889 billion loss to national kitty.

The meeting also approved to initiate investigation into alleged malpractices against administration of NEPRA, Ministry of Water and Power, IPPS, M/s Blue Star Hydel Pvt Ltd., Bukhsh Solars Pvt Ltd., Saif Solars Pvt Ltd., Lucky Electric Power Company Ltd., Sadqaa Sons Energy Ltd., They violated solar power plants tariff due to which national kitty had to bear loss of over Rs 200 billion.

An inquiry was also approved against Dr Akram Ch Vice Chancellor Sargodha University and others for illegal appointments. The board also approved an inquiry against Inspector FIA Adnan Lohani, former Senator Abdul Razaq and Chief Executive M/s Malik Exchange Private Ltd.

Kamran Khan over misuse of their authority, taking bribe and indulging in money laundering. The meeting also approved investigation against Talat Mehmood, Nouman Nawaz, Ijaz Ahmed, Raja Kamran and others for their alleged involvement in Rs 3.

14 million corruption.

The board asked the anti-graft watchdog to initiate inquiry against owners and developers of Al-Khair Housing Society for looting Rs 27.065 million from masses. The board also ordered inquiry into in 'Land Utilization Department Sindh' which caused loss to national exchequer.

The board approved investigation against former Director General Sindh Building Control Authority Manzoor Qadir and others for changing status of Public welfare plots into commercial land which caused loss of Rs 500 million to national kitty.

The meeting also ordered inquiry against Muhammad Mohsin and Rahila Mugsi as State Bank of Pakistan had sent the case to NAB under D-31 for suspicious transactions. The board approved corruption investigation against Arif Ali Shah Bukhari, KASB Noor Developers Pvt Ltd.

former Director/former administration BIPL and Structured Venture Pvt Ltd, who caused Rs 375 million loss to national exchequer. The board approved investigation against former Director General KDA Syed Nasir Abbas and others for changing status of Public welfare plots into commercial land which caused loss of Rs 354 million to national kitty.

It also ordered inquiry against former Chairman SPSC Muhammad Hassan Bhutto and others for abusing their powers and illegal appointments. The board approved investigations against top officials of Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan for irregularity in students' funds which caused Rs 1176 million loss to national kitty.

It approved investigations against administration of Jinnah Medical College Peshawar for irregularity. The Executive Board meeting also approved investigation against former Vice Chancellor Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Customs'Collectorate 'Peshawar, officials of Bank of Khyber Peshawar, Chairman District Council Qilla Abdullah, former Chairman Quetta Development Authority and Director General Anti-Corruption Punjab for abusing their powers, irregularities and corruption which caused loss of millions of rupees to national exchequer.KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :National Women Day was commemorated with sobriety here on Monday, in reminiscent of the struggle waged by women in 1983 against discriminatory approach adopted by the then government in the country.

Vowing to continue with the struggle for women empowerment in its truest sense, the speakers at a seminar organized by Sindh Women Status Commission urged political parties to ensure adequate and meaningful representation to women in their decision-making bodies.

The event was addressed by Chairperson Human Rights Commission of Sindh, Justice (retd) Majida Rizvi, Resident Director of Aurat Foundation, Mehnaz Rehman, former President of First Women Bank, Akram Khatoon, Chairperson, Women Status Commission of Sindh, Nuzhat Shireen as well as commission members including Mangla Sharma, Rahima Panwhar, Rahila Rahim and Farhat Parveen.

The speakers urged women legislators to be more assertive in their efforts to end discrimination against womenfolk. It was resolved that concerted efforts must be also made at every level to push forward the cause of women exposed to discrimination due to lack of education, awareness and above all owing to poor economic opportunities.

Advisor to the Sindh Chief Minister and also a seasoned political activist, MPA Shamim Mumtaz, referred to series of efforts made by her party (PPP) to develop close collaboration among all women MPAs for the larger cause of women empowerment.

She mentioned that PPP government has also initiated series of interventions aimed at capacity building of women and empowering them through necessary skill development, training and micro-finance.

Special Assistant to Sindh Chief Minister, Irum Khalid said the provincial government is absolutely committed to women rights as enshrined under the 1973 constitution. On the occasion a resolution was adopted to condole death of Asma Jahangir who spearheaded the struggle, alongwith her equally committed and dedicated colleagues Shahla Zia, Najma Sadiq and others, for protection of the rights of Pakistani women, without any distinction.

APP/rh/ms(@FahadShabbir)

Chairman National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) Justice (Retd.) Ali Nawaz Chowhan Monday expressed deep sorrow and grief over the sudden demise of renowned lawyer and human rights activist Asma Jehangir

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Chairman National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) Justice (Retd.) Ali Nawaz Chowhan Monday expressed deep sorrow and grief over the sudden demise of renowned lawyer and human rights activist Asma Jehangir.

Addressing the NCHR employees gathered here to offer Fateha for the departed soul, he praised valiant struggle of the deceased for the rights of weak, vulnerable and the marginalized people of the society.

He termed Asma Jehangir a role model for human rights activists to stand firm in the face of adversity. Ali Nawaz Chowhan prayed to Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to members of the bereaved family to bear this loss with equanimity.(@rukhshanmir)

National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University (SBBWU) Monday arranged a seminar to commemorate National Women day

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University (SBBWU) Monday arranged a seminar to commemorate National Women day.

The event was organized to highlight history of women rights movement and the episodes that led to establishment of Women Action Forum besides the event of February 12, 1983 where Punjab Women Lawyers Association in Lahore organized a public protest against the Proposed Law of Evidence where participating members, mostly women, were beaten, tear gassed, and arrested by police.

Parliamentarians, civil society representatives, human rights activists, academicians and large number of students participated in the event. The event started with Fatiha for Asma Jahangir. All speakers paid rich tribute to Asma for her fearless struggle for women rights movement in Pakistan.

In her welcome remarks, Vice Chancellor Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University (SBBWU) Dr Razia Sultana said that despite challenges, there is a strong drive in the society to educate daughters and bring them into the workforce.

"Challenges hold opportunities and threats make you stronger, so never give up against challenges and threats." She urged the students to use power of vote to elect the best candidate for the country.

Executive Member NCSW Dr Human Qureshi introduced the NCSW mandate and functions to the participants. She emphasized on the importance of girl students to follow their dreams and asked them to remember the sacrifices of those who initiated the movement and stood strong with women rights.

The welcome remarks were followed by a panel discussion chaired by Chairperson Department of Gender Studies, University of Peshawar, Anosh Khan and participated by Chairperson Provincial Commission on the Status of Women Neelum Toru, Samina Afridi from University of Peshawar, former Chairperson PCSW Zubaida Kahtun, Gulalai from Khawandakor, Chair for Paimaan and member NCSW Mussarat Qadeem.

Chairperson PCSW KP Neelum Toru said that democracy and basic human rights go hand in hand and women's absence from democratic process lays foundation of a much weaker and superficial democracy.

She identified registration of identity cards, male dominancy, mobility, control of Jirga and security issues major challenges in the way of women political participation. She said PCSW is engaging with Election Commission and NADRA and involving the district committees of PCSW to mobilize women for next elections.

Dr. Samina Afridi talked about struggle of women in FATA and said existing legal framework in FATA legalizes customary practice in FATA. "But things are changing. Women are becoming part of Jirgas," she added. The event also featured screening of awareness documentaries, a song by Mahnoor Jadoon dedicated to women struggling for their rights and a skit focusing on girl's education.RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Newly appointed Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan, Ishan Mustafa Yurdakul called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Qamar Javed Bajwa Monday here at General Headquarters (GHQ).

Matters of mutual interest including regional security issues were discussed during the meeting, said a press release issued here by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The two noted the exceptional mutual relations between the brotherly nations and pledged to further improve these.

The visiting dignitary also acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan army's contributions for peace and stability in the region.It was around midnight on Feb. 2 at the Bear Tavern PR, a gay bar in the Ocean Park neighborhood of the Puerto Rican capital of San Juan, when a woman began to pass around pieces of her birthday cake.

Roughly 20 people were inside the bar, which is located near the intersections of Calles Degetau and Loiza, as Foo Fighters Learn to Fly and other songs that include Gerardos Rico Suave and Kid Rocks Cowboy played. Other patrons were smoking cigarettes and drinking beers outside on the narrow sidewalk.

Ismael Acosta, who co-owns Bear Tavern PR with his partner of nine years, Gabriel Acosta, noted it is the only bear and leather bar in Puerto Rico. Gabriel Acosta added it became an oasis for Ocean Park residents after Hurricane Maria.

They would come here and say finally I can talk to people about what happened to me at home, he said as he and Ismael Acosta spoke with the Washington Blade from behind the bar.

Maria on Sept. 20 devastated Puerto Rico when it made landfall on the islands southeastern coast with 155 mph winds.

A combination of storm surge and flood waters mixed with raw sewage left large swaths of low-lying Ocean Park flooded for three weeks after Maria. Bear Tavern PR  which opened last May  was able to reopen eight days after the hurricane after Gov. Ricardo Rossello lifted a dusk-to-dawn curfew and the Acostas were able to obtain a generator.

The first night that we opened it was a Friday and it was magical, Gabriel Acosta told the Blade. Its like we had never seen each other for the past year.

Gabriel Acosta said the bar was without power for eight days after Hurricane Irma brushed Puerto Rico on Sept. 7.

He told the Blade it took a week to get ice for Bear Tavern PR after Maria. Gabriel Acosta also said he and his partner spent several hours each day going to stores to buy beer, liquor and other supplies.

Wed be running around to stores; getting ice, getting plastic, getting everything, he told the Blade. It was difficult, but we were the only bar open.

The Acostas home in Caguas, a city that is roughly 20 miles south of San Juan, was undamaged during Maria.

Ocean Park residents were able to get ice at Bear Tavern PR and use the electricity the generator was providing after the hurricane. Ismael Acosta told the Blade that some of the bars patrons lost everything.

They lost everything, added Gabriel Acosta. They come here and theyre smiling and they got more joy and more happiness than we do.

Maria was very strong here

Power was restored in Ocean Park in December. Sunset Sunrise, an LGBT-friendly bar in Boqueron, a village that is located on Puerto Ricos southwest coast, reopened just before Christmas after its electricity was restored.

Tita, a bartender at Sunset Sunrise, and Oswaldo, a Boqueron resident, on Feb. 2 showed the Blade pictures on their iPhones of homes and businesses that Maria damaged. The storm surge also washed sailboats into mangrove swamps and destroyed at least one house that had been built over the water.

The hurricane was very strong here, Tita told the Blade.

Boqueron, which is located roughly two-and-a-half hours southwest of San Juan in the municipality of Cabo Rojo, is a popular destination for Puerto Ricans and tourists alike. Boqueron also hosts a Pride celebration that takes place in June.

A handful of people were sitting outside Sunset Sunrise on Feb. 2 when the Blade was speaking with Tita and Oswaldo. Most of the bars and restaurants in downtown Boqueron were open, but Tita confirmed the number of visitors has dropped 50 percent from a year ago.

Things are now picking up, she said.

Bar owners: Trump has forgotten about Puerto Rico

Back in Ocean Park, the majority of the traffic lights are damaged and do not work.

Mangled power lines, damaged utility poles and buildings, piles of debris and sand remain common sights throughout the neighborhood. Maria also damaged Ocean Parks sewer infrastructure.

San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz continues to criticize President Trump over his response to Maria. Ismael Acostas face grimaced with anger when the Blade asked him about the White Houses handling of the hurricanes aftermath.

Weve been forgotten by the president, he said. He forgot about us. My face can tell you everything.

Gabriel Acosta agreed, pointing out to the Blade that LGBT Puerto Ricans have never had the full support of the islands government. Ismael Acosta also suggested Cruz has not done enough to help her city begin to recover from Maria.

Shes getting a lot of attention for the island, Ismael Acosta told the Blade. But for us here in San Juan . . . she forgot about San Juan.

Thats what people are complaining about, added Gabriel Acosta. Yes, youre famous in Washington, youre famous in New York, but what happened to San Juan. You still walk around, drive around, you still have trees on the side (of the road) and everything. And people are saying what about San Juan? We are here, but you went to the states.

Ismael Acosta nevertheless praised Cruz for doing an amazing job talking, trying to let people know about us in Puerto Rico. Ismael Acosta also described Cruz as one of the only ones who stood up to Trump after Maria.

We need to respect that too, said Ismael Acosta.

 Michael K. Lavers, Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association.The organizations banned by United Nations Security Council (UNSC) have also been banned in Pakistan and President Mamnoon Hussain has signed an ordinance aimed at tightening the noose around the individuals and such organizations.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018) : The organizations banned by United Nations Security Council (UNSC) have also been banned in Pakistan and President Mamnoon Hussain has signed an ordinance aimed at tightening the noose around the individuals and such organizations. The ordinance amends a section of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), enabling the authorities concerned to take action against the UNSC-proscribed individuals and terror outfits, like sealing their offices and freezing their bank accounts. The National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) sources said that the ministries of Interior, Finance and Foreign Affairs as well as NACTAs Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) wing are working on the matter. It is learnt that the authorities concerned are bound under international obligations to take measures against such outfits under the framework of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)  an international body that combats money laundering and terrorist financing. The UNSC sanctions list includes al Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeJ) and others.

It worth mentioning here that in December 2017, the government had planned to take over two charities belonging to Hafiz Saeed  the JuD and the FIF  and an action plan in this connection was supposed to be submitted. In the first week of January, the government had also banned companies and individuals from making donations to the JuD, the FIF and other organizations. Jundullah was the last organization declared proscribed by the government of Pakistan on January 31, 2018 on the NACTA website.

However, JuD and the FIF continue to be on the NACTA watch list. Laskar-e-Tayyiba was declared as banned organization under the UNSC resolution 1267 in 2005. The US State Department in 2014 had named the JuD as foreign terrorist organization, a status that freezes assets the organization has under the US jurisdiction. Meanwhile, India also blamed JuD leader Saeed for the Mumbai attacks of November 2006, but Pakistan argues India has failed to provide incriminating evidence against him.Ambassador of Iran to Pakistan Mehdi Honardoost on Monday met with Pakistan Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss border management, a military statement said.

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018) : Ambassador of Iran to Pakistan Mehdi Honardoost on Monday met with Pakistan Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss border management, a military statement said. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest and Pak-Iran border management were discussed, a statement issued by military's media wing Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said. This was the fourth meeting of Iranian ambassador with Pakistan Army chief.

The first meeting took place in March 2017 soon after the visit by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to Islamabad to attend ECO Summit, the second meeting took place in April 2017, while the third meeting took place in October the same year.

General Qamar Javed Bajwa had also visited Iran in November last year and met with Iranian leaders to further enhance coordination between the two countries especially in defense sector. The leaders of Iran and Pakistan regularly interact with each other to further improve bilateral ties.Veteran politicians here Monday categorically stated that political horse- trading ahead of Senate elections was detrimental to democracy and constitutional rule and stressed on political leadership to sit together to frustrate the designs of elements trying to reach the Upper House of Parliament through unfair means

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Veteran politicians here Monday categorically stated that political horse- trading ahead of Senate elections was detrimental to democracy and constitutional rule and stressed on political leadership to sit together to frustrate the designs of elements trying to reach the Upper House of Parliament through unfair means.

Sardar Saleh Muhammad, Member Provincial Assembly (MPA) while talking to APP said that political horse- trading in senate election was like a 'cancer' for democracy and constitution rule and will negatively impact democratic and legislation process.

The PML-N leader said free, fair and transparent senate elections was inevitable for democratic rule and progress and stability of the country besides problems of masses could be addressed only through a strong parliament.

He maintained strong parliament was imperative for ensuring good governance and make legislation as per the modern days' requirements besides keeping a close check on the functions and working of the government institutions.

The MPA said parliament was a supreme constitutional institution and its momentous role in supremacy of democracy, ensuring good governance, making of new laws besides changes in existing legislations and maintaining close check on working of the government institutions of vital importance.

As per Article 51 of 1973 Constitution, he said parliament was bicameral consisting of the Senate and National Assembly and the offices of President, Prime Minister, Chairman Senate and Speaker National Assembly enjoy high prestige, powers and its respect which was as important as like any other state institutions of the country.

Saleh Muhammad said only senators with highest moral integrity and honesty, who strongly believed in supremacy of democracy and constitution can deliver for safeguarding people's rights. "I ask how candidates elected for the upper house on basis of horse trading and sale and purchase of votes would serve their countrymen and raise voice for their rights and public issues in Senate," he questioned.

He said priorities of such elected candidates would be to get their money double as they spent on purchase of votes and would make nothing for people's welfare except to enjoy perks and privileges for their own benefits.

The PML-N leader called for 'Jihad' against horse trading in politics and underscored the need for joint efforts by all the stakeholders to strongly resist and shaming those trying to win Senate seats by using their money.

It was very astonishing that how a party or an individual with no MPA, can become a senator, saying there are political parties with no MPA in provincial assemblies have also fielded their candidates to get representation in the Upper House through horse trading and venality practice.

He said political parties and parliamentarians believed in supremacy of constitution would strongly reject all such negative elements as this was not in the interest of the country viz a viz democracy.

In presence of independent judiciary, free media and sovereign parliament, he said faces of all such negative elements would stand exposed before masses and horse trading in senate election would not be allowed.

Saleh Muhammad suggested elections in Senate on the basis of 'Show of hands' to avoid horse trading and upholding sanctity of votes. JUI-F Spokesman, Jalil Jan said horse trading in Senate election was very lethal for democracy and his party would continue struggle against this political menace.

The candidates with billions of rupees assets were fielded by different political parties by leaving the committed workers, in a bid to get maximum representation in Senate, he said. Jalil Jan said the method of representations like of the National Assembly for women reserved seats should be adopted for Senate election in order to discourage horse trading.

Former PPP President KP and ex senior Provincial Minister, Rahimdad Khan said horse trading was very harmful for democracy and urged all the parliamentary leaders to sit together ahead of Senate Election by chalking out a comprehensive strategy to prevent sale and purchase of votes.

He said only upright and committed candidates elected on merit would discharge their functions in the interest of people and will protect interest of masses and respective provinces in the Upper House of Pakistan.

Rahimdad Khan called upon the elected representatives to use their votes wisely so that upright candidates could reach to Upper House and play part in the legislation process for the benefits of people and Pakistan.Former provincial minister Amjad Afridi Monday recorded protest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly blowing a whistle against PTI-led coalition government for not releasing funds in oil and gas royalty

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Former provincial minister Amjad Afridi Monday recorded protest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly blowing a whistle against PTI-led coalition government for not releasing funds in oil and gas royalty.

The house resumed proceedings after a long break of three weeks with Deputy Speaker, Dr. Meher Taj Roghani in the chair. The treasury bench legislator recalled that he had recorded his protest on the floor the house seven months ago and Speaker had ruled the release the funds, but, it not happened which he said is the breach of the privilege of the slogan of change raised by the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The protesting legislator whistled for several times and also shouted on provincial government that how they will bring change through stoppage of the release of the funds of an elected MPA. The joint opposition in the house also joined Afridi in his protest and demanded the opening of the mike of the protesting legislator to raise his voice, but in a bid to save the government from embarrassment the Deputy Speaker adjourned the proceeding till 3:00 P.

M.

on Tuesday. Later, talking to media Amjad Afridi said that the provincial government had failed to release even a single penny out of 2.4 billion rupees in oil and gas royalty funds of Kohat Division for the year 2015-16.

Similarly, he said that out of about 2 billion rupees the government during financial year 2016-17 had released only 560 million rupees while for 2017-18 the government had released only 730 million rupees.

He alleged that the Chief Minister Pervez Khattak giving his developmental funds to his Advisor Zia Ullah Bangash and depriving the people of his Constituencies of developmental schemes. Earlier, questions regarding minimum wages of labourers and Technical education were referred to concern committees and one question regarding Excise and Taxation was deferred as the movers were not satisfied from the written reply by the departments.

Meanwhile, Muhammad Ali of Jamaat-e-Islami withdrawn his question in protest and said that he had put up this question two year ago but the concern Industries and Commerce Department failed to reply on time.ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The Accountability Court (AC) Monday recorded statements of Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Additional Director, Wajid Zia head of Panama papers's Joint Investigation Team (JIT), in the reference against Senator Ishaq Dar, possessing assets disproportionate to his declared sources of income.

Zia also submitted volume one and nine of the original Panama JIT case before Accountability court judge Mohammed Bashir in compliance with earlier orders. He stated before the bench that during investigation he found that Mr.

Dar's assets according to his wealth statements in 1991 was Rs 9.1 million but surprisingly it was increased 91 times in 2008-09 and had become Rs 831.6 million. He added former minister for finance failed to prove the enormous growth in his assets before the JIT.

He also informed the bench that how and when JIT was establish and its work. Earlier, National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Deputy prosecutor informed the court that there were reports that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was planning to travel United Kingdom.

To this, Judge Bashir remarked that there would not be right if the accountability court's proceedings would be delayed as the Supreme Court and JIT completed their work on time during the Panama case hearing.

After Zia's statement was recorded, the hearing was adjourned till February 14. Statement of the prosecution witness, NAB Investigation officer Nadir Abbass could not be recorded due to his illness and now it will be recorded on next hearing along with another witness Inamul Haq.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Pakistan is a blessing of God, Saudi-Pak relations are exemplary and getting stronger with every passing day, said Prince Jalwi Bin Saud Bin Abdulaziz Monday during his visit to International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI)

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Pakistan is a blessing of God, Saudi-Pak relations are exemplary and getting stronger with every passing day, said Prince Jalwi Bin Saud Bin Abdulaziz Monday during his visit to International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI).

He was also accompanied by the Saudi Envoy to Pakistan, Nawaf Saeed Al-Malki, a news release said. The Prince along with his delegation members was received by the Rector IIUI, Dr Masoom Yasinzai and President IIUI, Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh along with other high ups of the university at new campus.

"Islam is recognition of Muslims, it's the umbrella which makes them all a body" said KSA Prince, while delivering his speech in a meeting with IIUI leadership. He said he had heard about the services and scope of IIUI and today witnessed that the institution was a hub of Muslim unity which was providing best minds to Muslim world.

He reiterated his resolve that KSA would keep cooperating with IIUI for academic excellence and its other constructive projects. He also prayed for the prosperity of Pakistan and the university.

The meeting with KSA delegation was also attended by IIUI Vice Presidents, Deans, Directors General, Directors and other relevant officials. Dr Masoom Yasinzai told the prince in the briefing the university was focusing on providing quality education to the youth of more than 40 countries integrated with teachings of islam.

He told that IIUI was also working to provide solution of the contemporary challenges and bring a well-balanced human resource in the field according to the societal needs.

He apprised about IIUI's role in dissemination of Islam's message of peace and interfaith harmony.

IIUI Rector also told about recent milestone university achieved through preparing Paigham e Pakistan narrative against terrorism. He hailed the KSA cooperation with IIUI and told that university was thankful for assistance.

Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh welcomed the prince and said that KSA universities and IIUI were working on projects of mutual cooperation for betterment of academic excellence. He told that IIUI had a comprehensive history of serving Muslim world as it had provided narratives and other solution of the contemporary challenges.

IIUI President also briefed about the 9 faculties and foreign faculty members at IIUI which he told that were hailing from Egypt's Al-Azhar university, Umul Qura university, Madinah university and Imam Ibn Saud University of KSA.

The delegation also visited Faisal Masjid and offered Zuhr prayer, where Prince termed the Mosque as a valuable symbol of Saudi-Pak strong and brotherly ties. Later, Prince Jalwai inaugurated a Centre for Youth Engagement and De-radicalization at Iqbal Institute for Research and Dialogue and an international studio at Dawah academy of the university.

The prince also visited Islamic Research Institute's picture gallery and penned his remarks in the book and wrote the visit as the most memorable one. Later, a luncheon was hosted by IIUI leadership in honour of the Prince Jalwi and his delegation.(@FahadShabbir)

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Feb, 2018 ) :Governor of Sindh, Mohammad Zubair has urged the students to be competitive with equal attention towards a participatory approach in their academic pursuits.

Addressing the 3rd Convocation ceremony of Isra University's Karachi campus, he said there can be no development without participation. "In this age of digital literacy there can also be no participation without communication, " he said.

On the occasion, degrees were also awarded to 214 students belonging to Faculty of Medical Sciences and Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences. Appreciative of the achievements made by the privately owned Isra University established in 1997 at Hyderabad, he said its expansion in past 19 years through two more campuses at Karachi and Islamabad also demands innovative approach.

"Everything changes with time, except the change itself and we live in an age of innovation and change, and in such an age, the universities have a special obligation," he said. Sindh Governor said universities must hold fast to the best of the past, and do more for the best of the future.

Reiterating that globalization is an undeniable fact, he said urging academic institutions to get themselves and their students ready for it. Globalization is like a river that has burst it banks and the only way for us to survive is to learn swimming or else we will be drowned," he said emphasizing that earlier we learn to realize the truth of the matter, the better it is for us.

Governor of Sindh felicitating the graduating students, for the hard work they had put in successful completion of their degrees, reminded them of their goal as educated citizens. "You must uphold the image of our country and let the world know that we are a peaceful nation," said the nation as a whole must uphold the image that founders of this nation had worked so hard, to build.

Prof. Dr. Asadullah Kazi, Chancellor, Isra University in his address advised the students never to give up your dreams and aspirations. Prof. Dr. Ghulam Qadir Kazi, Vice Chancellor, Isra University in his address said that the main purpose of such events is not only to confer degrees on the students but also to honor those who have performed meritoriously.

"Knowledge inculcates in a person sense of responsibility and accountability," he said while quoting a verse from the Holy Quran. On the occasion , 158 graduates received their bachelor degrees in Medical Sciences, Vision Sciences and Physical Therapy whereas, 56 post graduate degrees were awarded in different programs of medical and allied medical sciences.

Gold and Silver medals were conferred upon outstanding students for securing positions in their relevant faculties and departments. Nargis Jamil and Prince Aakash were among the recipients of gold medals, whereas Umme Farwa Tareen, Saif Ullah Khan received silver medals. APP/rh/pas/(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Islamabad Khana and Industrial Area Police stations on Monday arrested three dacoits and as many street criminals and recovered bike as well as weapons from them, a police spokesman said

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Islamabad Khana and Industrial Area Police stations on Monday arrested three dacoits and as many street criminals and recovered bike as well as weapons from them, a police spokesman said.

According to details, a team headed by Superintendent of Police (Industrial Area) Liaqat Hayat Niazi succeeded to arrest three street criminals. They were identified as Sheraz Baig, Waseem Zaman and Usman Ali.

Police recovered bike and two pistols from their possession. As per initial investigation, the accused confessed that they alongwith other accomplices committed criminal acts in twin cities.

On a tip off, SHO Khana police Sub-Inspector Liaqat Ali alongwith police team raided at the hide out of dacoits at `Barma Town' area and arrested three dacoits red-handed when they were planning to commit dacoity in an adjoining area.

They have been identified as Sajjid Mehmood , Hamzad Aftab and Ehsan Kazmi. Police also recovered five pistols from them and they confessed to commit crime in various. Further,investigation is underway from them.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Islamabad Khana and Industrial Area Police on Monday arrested three dacoits and as many street criminals and recovered bike as well as weapons from them, a police spokesman said.

ISLAMABAD,(UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018) : Islamabad Khana and Industrial Area Police on Monday arrested three dacoits and as many street criminals and recovered bike as well as weapons from them, a police spokesman said. According to details, SSP Islamabad Najeeb ur Rehman Bugvi assigned the task to SP IndustrialArea Liaqat Hayat Niazi to accelerate efforts to arrest criminal elements. A police team headed by ASP Abdul Wahab including SHO Industrial area Police Station Inspector Khalid Mehmood Awan, Sub-Inspector Mansoor Ahmed, and other officials succeeded to arrest three street criminals. They were identified as Sheraz Baig, Waseem Zaman and Usman Ali.

Police recovered bike and two pistols from their possession. According to initial investigation, the accused confessed that they along with other accomplices committed criminal acts in twin cities.

On a tip off, SP (Rural) Hassam Bin Iqbal constituted a special team including SHO Khana police Sub-Inspector Liaqat Ali, ASIs Muhammad Zafar Medhi and Muhammad Nawaz Ahmed and others. This team raided at the hide out of dacoits at `Barma Town area and arrested three dacoits red-handed when they were planning to commit dacoity in an adjoining area.They have been identified as Sajjid Mehmood , Hamzad Aftab and Ehsan Kazmi.

Police also recovered five pistols from them and they confessed to commit crime in various. Further investigation is underway from them. SSP (Operations) Najeeb ur Rehman Bugvi have appreciated this performance and directed police officials for effective policing in their respective areas.The police on Monday seized smuggled Iranian diesel from SITE area of the city during snap checking and arrested two persons from the spot

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :The police on Monday seized smuggled Iranian diesel from SITE area of the city during snap checking and arrested two persons from the spot.

The police said that 2400 liters smuggled diesel was seized from a mini truck. Two accused namely Ismail Shah and Muhammad Hamid were also arrested from the spot. Further action is underway.We can't seem to find the page you are looking for.

You may have typed the address incorrectly or you may have used an outdated link.MULTAN, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Feb, 2018 ) ::Punjab Governor Malik Muhammad Rafique Rajwana said the government was taking every possible step for the promotion of higher education.

The government was trying its best to improve education standard and maintain recognition of Pakistani degrees at international level. He expressed these views while talking to a delegation of students of Nishtar Medical College.

The governor said the Higher Education Commission had devised a system of monitoring of educational institutes and the institutes which were not following proper criteria, set by the HEC, would face stern action.

He added that monitoring system would surely improve performance of the institutes. The students informed the governor that they were not given laptops. On it, the governor assured them that he would play his role for the provision of laptops soon. The governor stated that medical students should have laptops for equipping themselves with modern knowledge and researches. APP/atf(@rukhshanmir)

Three-day flower exhibition will be held at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park here from March 1 to 3

MIRPURKHAS, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Three-day flower exhibition will be held at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park here from March 1 to 3. This was announced by the Deputy Commissioner Mirpurkhas Zahid Hussain Memon on Monday while presiding over a meeting to review the arrangement for the exhibition.

The Commissioner said that besides the government, private institutions will also be invited to establish stalls at the exhibition. He said that awards will also be distributed among the top three position holders of the exhibition on the final day of the event.British High Commission's Political Consular William Middleton called on Central Leader of Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) & Member National Assembly (MNA) Hamza Shahbaz and discussed with him issues of bilateral interests.

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018) : British High Commission's Political Consular William Middleton called on Central Leader of Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) & Member National Assembly (MNA) Hamza Shahbaz and discussed with him issues of bilateral interests. Talking to UK Political Consular who called on him at PML Secretariat Model Town Lahore on Monday, Hamza Shehbaz said that the incumbent government has completed record development in important sectors especially in education; health and energy sectors mega projects are now serving the masses. He said that common man is satisfied with the performance of PML-N government and now it is the dire need that general elections of 2018 should be held in time to avoid conspiracies.

He said that presently Pakistan facing a number of challenges at internal and external sides and war against terrorism has damaged a lot while our army has given sacrifices.

Hamza Shahbaz expressed that political leadership would take away the country from all the crises and able to give a prosperous and strong Pakistan to the masses.

Hamza Shahbaz exchanged views on bilateral issues and welcome William Middleton in Lahore and informed him on the historical and political situation. In his conversation the Political Consular of British High Commission said that bilateral ties are being strengthen day by day.

He informed about the different projects being launched with the cooperation of United Kingdom in Pakistan. Mr. William Middleton also informed about DEFID Projects in education Sector of Punjab Province which has extended the facilities at large. He exchanged views on different matters of mutual interest and expressed thanks on warm hospitality in Lahore City.(@rukhshanmir)

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Sunday expressed his deep sorrow over the passing away of Asma Jahangir, a leading Pakistani lawyers and a UN human rights special rapporteur, saying, "We have lost a human rights giant

UNITED NATIONS, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Sunday expressed his deep sorrow over the passing away of Asma Jahangir, a leading Pakistani lawyers and a UN human rights special rapporteur, saying, "We have lost a human rights giant." "news of the death of Asma Jahangir today is echoing within her native Pakistan and across the world," he said in a statement issued at UN Headquarters in New York.

"She was a tireless advocate for inalienable rights of all people and for equality" whether in her capacity as a Pakistani lawyer in the domestic justice system, as a global civil society activist, or as a Special Rapporteur," the secretary-general said.

"Asma was brilliant, deeply principled, courageous and kind. I convey my heartfelt condolences to Asma's family, friends and colleagues, including in the United Nations and civil society within which she was such a leader. "Asma will not be forgotten," Guterres added.Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, who is on an official visit to the United Kingdom, on Monday met British Secretary of State for Justice David Gauke in London

LONDON, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, who is on an official visit to the United Kingdom, on Monday met British Secretary of State for Justice David Gauke in London.

The two sides discussed to re-operationalise the prisoners' exchange programme between the two countries. In this regard, Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized on the need of providing full facilitation for the families of the Pakistani prisoners, according to a statement issued by Pakistan's High Commission.

The cooperation in prosecution was also discussed in detail. The minister expressed the desire to benefit from the best practices in vogue in the UK in the area of prosecution.

In this regard, he proposed to form a Joint Working Group (JWG) between the two countries at the earliest to initiate prosecution reforms process in Pakistan.

David Gauke agreed to the proposal. Ahsan Iqbal briefed the Justice Secretary on Pakistan's successful fight against extremism and terrorism which resulted in significant improvement in the security of the country.

David Gauke commended the progress made by Pakistan in the field of counter-terrorism. Both the sides agreed to work together for the promotion of justice and rule of law. Acting High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri was also present in the meeting.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Leaders of Azerbaijan's main opposition parties pledged Monday to boycott a snap presidential election which is expected to extend the autocratic rule of President Ilham Aliyev

Baku, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Leaders of Azerbaijan's main opposition parties pledged Monday to boycott a snap presidential election which is expected to extend the autocratic rule of President Ilham Aliyev.

"The Popular Front party and the National Council of the Opposition took a decision to boycott the snap presidential election," the Popular Front chairman, Ali Kerimli, told AFP. "The conditions for a democratic and competitive election in Azerbaijan are not in place, and there is no independent media," he said.

"Opposition parties operate in a semi-clandestine manner," Kerimli said, adding that they would stage protests against the vote in March. The 56-year-old strongman stunned his oil-rich country last week when he called a surprise snap presidential vote for April 11 -- six months ahead of schedule -- without providing an explanation.

Azerbaijan was initially set to hold the vote on October 17. The ruling Yeni Azerbaijan party has said that Aliyev will run for a fourth term, a decision that has sparked strong criticism from dissidents.

Opposition politicians have said the decision to hold early elections was aimed at shortening the campaign period and hampering the opposition's efforts to prevent vote rigging. Isa Gambar, the leader of Musavat party, told AFP his party "refuses to participate in the election because the authorities will falsify its results." The Alternative Republican Movement -- whose leader Ilgar Mamedov is serving a jail term over charges he had denounced as politically motivated -- also said in a statement that it would boycott the vote.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Seven of the 10 foreigners arrested on pornography charges after a pool party in the Cambodian tourist town of Siem Reap have been deported, a court official said Monday

Phnom Penh, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Seven of the 10 foreigners arrested on pornography charges after a pool party in the Cambodian tourist town of Siem Reap have been deported, a court official said Monday.

Police accused the group of "singing and dancing pornographically" after their arrest two weeks ago at a party in a private villa in Siem Reap, the launchpad for visitors heading to Cambodia's famed Angkor Wat temples.

A Siem Reap court charged them with producing pornographic pictures and materials and a prosecutor said party organisers circulated obscene images online to promote the bash. The group of Five Britons, two Canadians, a Norwegian, a New Zealander and a Dutch national faced up to a year in prison but their lawyer sought and received bail for seven of them on grounds that they had not organised the party.

Court spokesman Yin Srang told AFP on Monday that the court "deported them from the country" as part of the bail decision, although the charges against them have not been formally dropped.

"They have left Cambodia.

We gave them back their passports," he said. Their lawyer Ouch Sopheaktra confirmed that the seven had left the country and said he had no plan to ask for bail for the remaining three, a British, Dutch and Norwegian national.

All 10 defendants denied the allegations, saying only that they were wearing "sexy" clothing but were not nude and had not produced pornography. Authorities have yet to announce a date for the trial.

Cambodia is a largely Buddhist country and the temples of Angkor Wat are considered sacred, leading to arrests of foreigners for taking racy photos at the ruins and a ban on wearing skimpy clothing there in 2016. But the gateway town of Siem Reap where the party took place has a lively nightlife and many bars and restaurants.A high-ranking Chinese official met with Kim Yong-nam, the president of the Presidium of the North Korean assembly, during their visits to South Korea last week, China's foreign ministry confirmed Monday

BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :A high-ranking Chinese official met with Kim Yong-nam, the president of the Presidium of the North Korean assembly, during their visits to South Korea last week, China's foreign ministry confirmed Monday.

"Han Zheng, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China, met with the head of the North Korean delegation and had exchanges during his visit to attend the PyeongChang Olympic Games as a special envoy of President Xi Jinping," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said in a press briefing.

The two officials visited South Korea last week to attend the opening ceremony of the Olympics on Friday. Kim led a three-member high-ranking North Korean delegation, which included North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister Yo-jong. Topics of the China-North Korea discussion, however, were not disclosed by the foreign ministry.La Paz, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Tragedies cast a shadow over Bolivia's carnival celebrations this weekend, with a staggering 21 people killed and 72 injured, authorities said Sunday.

In the city of Oruro, famous for its carnival celebrations, a heating gas tank exploded and killed eight people and wounded another 47. Many of the others killed were in traffic and bus accidents, police and local officials said.

In Oruro, about 25,000 dancers take part in the pre-Lenten blowout that is Bolivia's biggest tourist attraction and brings as many as half a million people to the sleepy town. The pageant along the city's cobblestones is a mixture of Spanish colonial traditions with those of the ancient indigenous Inca and Aymara peoples in a ritual seeking better farming and good health.

In 2001, the UNESCO cultural organization declared the carnival an intangible cultural heritage of humanity.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian visited Iraq on Monday to discuss the war-torn country's reconstruction with Iraqi officials after Baghdad declared victory against the Islamic State militants group

Baghdad, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :France's Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian visited Iraq on Monday to discuss the war-torn country's reconstruction with Iraqi officials after Baghdad declared victory against the Islamic State militants group.

"I have come to tell you of France's support and to accompany you. We will always be there.

We were there to participate in the coalition. We will also be there in the reconstruction phase," Le Drian said.

France took part in the US-led military coalition against IS after the militants group took over large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria in 2014. Baghdad is looking to drum up funds at a reconstruction conference in neighbouring Kuwait from Monday to Wednesday after announcing the defeat of IS nationwide at the end of last year.It may come as no surprise that Sacramento, California is consistently ranked as one of the top cities for coffee lovers in the U.S. If youre in the grid of midtown/downtown, you can toss a demitasse spoon from the patio of one coffee shop into a cup of nitro cold-brew in another across the street. It boasts heavy hitters like Temple Coffee, Old Soul, Chocolate Fish, Naked Coffee, Insight, and that one coffee shopThe Millthat makes its own macadamia nut milk (which is oddly delicious). The list is practically endless, topped with an annual latte art competition that draws a crowd that would make even the most confident barista sweat. And dont even get me started on the Caffeine Crawl that rolls through town every year or so.

Yeah, Sacramento is on top of the coffee game.

But this guide isnt about Sacramento.

Its about the smaller, quieter cities that surround her. If you listen closely and do a little digging beyond the city grid, youll find something you might not expect: a tight-knit and thriving coffee community tapping its feet to its own local culture, history, and the musical stylings of Johnny Cash.

If you Google Folsom, California, youll learnrather quicklythat the town is known for its stunning bridges, the 32-mile American River Bike Trail that connects the town to Sacramento, and its prison. Even though only about 2,000 of its 77,000 residents are currently behind bars at Folsom State Prison, Folsom has really cashed in on the fact that a certain folk-country music god put them on the map when he sang the blues there in 1968. [Ed note: We are very sorry for this pun, but not nearly enough to excise it.] Upon first glance, Folsom appears to be not much more than an insulated suburb graced by a robust outlet mall, a small but lively historical district (along Sutter Street), and, according to Yelp, apparently the best bakery in California, an establishment named BJ Cinnamon.

Beneath all that, however, lies the soundtrack of bicycle spokes, running shoes slapping against pavement, water rushing underneath the Rainbow Bridge, and coffee cups clinking against saucers at one of the few coffee shops peppered strategically around the bike trail. And my, do they have a song to sing.

Coffee Republic

On any given weekend morning, it is not uncommon to see a gaggle of sprinters in the Coffee Republic parking lot, ignoring the two hour parking for customers only signs as they walk across the street to hit the bike trail. The thing is: they come back. And they wait in line. And they waitoftentimes lining up out the door. The inside seating area is warm and inviting, as is the outdoor patio. This place encourages groups and conversations. They know the needs of their customers well: the pack mentality that motivates runners and cyclists to carb up and get caffeinated has kept Coffee Republic in business for over 25 years.

They prepare all their pastries, breads, and menu items in-house (find a single shop more replete with carbs, we dare you) and the coffee is sourced from local roaster Terranova. Come to Coffee Republic for the caffeine, the bagel and egg sandwich, and most importantly, the camaraderie. Just be prepared to feel lazy if youre not wearing running gear.

Coopers Coffee House

In addition to being conveniently located next to the American River Bike Trail, Coopers Coffee House is also dangerously close to a place called The Waffle Experience, which is exactly what it sounds like.

Coopers is a self-described mom n pop shop that opened in a prime location formerly occupied by the Its A Grind chain. They source their coffee from Dillanos in Washington, and feature an array of pastries sourced from Bella Bru Cafe based in the Sacramento area. Coopers also offers breakfast burritos, bagels and a delightful creation called a Granola Oatjack bar. The bar is packed with oats, sunflower seeds, walnuts, and honey, and pairs well with their toddy-style cold brew. Be sure to order early, because during summer months locals cant get enough of their cold brew and iced Numi teas. People come in and get upset when we run out, we have to constantly make more! says Arianna, one of Coopers cheerful baristas.

During the school year, Coopers is a hotbed for local students and business folk to order iced lattes alike and sit in one of the most inviting seating areas Ive witnessedbecause who doesnt want to sit in a wingback chair pretending to work on spreadsheets?

Argos Caffe

Opened last year, Argos Caffe has already carved itself a niche in the heart of Folsom (right off the bike trailsee a trend here?), and also the first shop locally to roast in-house. Jorge Gocobachi, the roaster and co-owner, roasts in the shop every other day. To engage the local community, Argos has hosted roasting parties to launch new blends and demonstrate the roasting process. They regularly partner with local eateries and artisans to showcase even more local flavor when possible.

Our name, Argos, is modeled after the Argonauts, says Lori, the manager of Argos, explaining that the name was inspired by the band of heroes in Greek mythology that accompanied Jason to Colchis in his quest to seek the Golden Fleece. The idea was that we were the first roaster bringing craft coffee to Folsom, she says. And now theres more hidden gems. Loris says the town is growing more comfortable with the shift from casual coffee to specialty.

Featuring local organic milk, pastries from Grateful Bread and vegan treats from Sugar Plumb Bakery (both in the Sacramento region), Argos is dialed into quality versus quantity. We also make all of our syrups in-house, and were using quality ingredientsorganic lavender, organic lemonade. Lori says theyve just rolled out a toast menu. Try the nine-grain with cream cheese, sea salt, and pepper or the cinnamon swirl with almond butter and honeythough Lori says that their biggest seller is avocado toast (we are in California after all).

While youre waiting for your toast, sip on a honey lavender latte and find out more about the upcoming fall menu, which (spoiler alert) will feature a drink called the Blind Date, a latte comprised of house-made date milk, almond milk, coconut milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Kingdom Coffee

Pulling into the nondescript shopping center located near the famed Folsom Outlets, a nondescript A-frame sign simply proclaims: Good coffee with an arrow directing you left. Eventually a main, equally nondescript sign that reads Coffee becomes visible above a simple storefront window. Whats waiting inside, however, is far from simple: it is what Dale Cooper might describe as damn fine joe.

You may remember Kingdom Coffee as one of the build-outs of summer, where William Rentfrow and his business partner Ty Manukyan were ambitiously opening a shop/roasting site in a former vape parlor. And they made it happen: this is a place you can read the morning paper and sip on a high-quality coffee slushie.

Rentfrow explains the drink by laughing, saying he had the idea while sipping on a Jamocha shake at Arbys. I grew up drinking Jamocha shakes, Rentfrow says. I cant help itits my Arbys ritual, so I had this idea. Why not serve something like that in our shop? Why are so few people in the craft coffee world doing these kinds of fun, silly drinks?

And thus the slushie was born. Spinning around quietly in a Vollrath machine on the countertop, these slushies are made with coffee, almond milk, and a dash of simple syrup. It tastes smooth, not overly sweetbut still like a drink Willy Wonka would make if he decided to create something dapper to sip on while reading the latest Haruki Murakami.

We dont care if were the best cup of coffee youve ever had in your life, but we want to make sure you get a good cup of coffee, Rentfrow says, adding that he's inspired by shops that thrive in their communities because of consistency, like G&B and Go Get Em Tiger in LA. People get all up in arms, shocked, that we dont do by-the-cup or pour-oversbut we make really good batch brew.

They are also ready to see the coffee culture grow in Folsom. We came to Folsom because theres not much here yet, says Rentfrow. We want to do more than just grow the coffee culture. I would love to have people see that Folsom supported and helped a little place like this thrive, and that theyd be inspired to bring their ideas here, tooId love to see more coffee, food options, and more things that drive creativity in the community.

Their menu is simple and intentional, featuring the usual espresso-based lineup (minus the macchiato, which Rentfrow says alleviates confusion from the local bucks crowdinstead he recommends the cortado), simple syrup for sweet drinks, and a mocha made with locally sourced Cru chocolate.

Nicholsons MusiCafe

Of all the unique personalities within the coffee shops of Folsom, one thing sets Nicholsons MusiCafe apart: their coffee is served with a side of music and if youre there on the right day, a free ukulele lesson.

The Nicholson family has been selling guitars to Folsom musicians since 1985, and the coffee shop opened next door nearly five years ago. While his parents run the guitar shop, Erich Nicholson is the brains behind the coffee shop. He saw an opportunity to combine a musical space with specialty coffee. Really, he wants to see the small shops thrive and thinks Folsom is on its way. I wanted to introduce more craft coffee in Folsomwe were really lacking that here, and I'm ready to see that scene click in.'

Featuring Equator Coffee, pastries from BJ Cinnamon down the street, and a full breakfast and lunch menu, Nicholson's is more than just a place to get a pour-overit's a place to perform.

Music is clearly at the heart of this shop: as soon as you walk in the door your eyes are drawn to the large acoustic guitar pattern on the tile floors, a display of guitar straps for sale to your left, and a warm, inviting stage to the right. And there, resting in a stand next to a chair on stage is a real acoustic guitar, waiting silently as though the man in black himself will walk through the door at any minute and pick it up for a song.

Our crowds are eclectic, says Angela Rolston, the general manager. With their open mic nights, concerts, songwriting events and workshops, their community comes out in drovesfrom hot-chocolate-sipping youngsters to beer-sipping college kids to latte-sipping grandpas, Nicholsons has created a unique culture of passionate people that appreciate good music and good coffee. Angela says their busiest timeunlike most other coffee shopsis at night. Guitar-strumming night owls, youve found your tribe.

When Johnny Cash wrote Folsom Prison Blues in the early 1950s, he combined two styles of folk music: the train song and the prison song, blending together a unique sound that would define his music for the rest of his career. Is this what coffee culture means in Folsomjoining together unique passions paired with a damn fine cup of joe? Id like to think so. Somewhere, Johnny is drinkin coffee and smokin a big cigar. [And yes, you can visit the Folsom State Prison. They have a museum.]

Mollie Hawkins (@molliebat) is a freelance journalist based in Sacramento, California, writing for Marie Claire, Salon, AOL, HelloGiggles and others. This is Mollie Hawkins' first feature for Sprudge Media Network.(@rukhshanmir)

Hong Kong, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :A spectacular fireworks display staged annually over Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour to mark Lunar New Year will be cancelled this year as the city mourns victims of a deadly bus crash, it was announced Monday.

A speeding double-decker overturned in northern Hong Kong on Saturday evening, killing 19 and leaving more than 60 injured, some critically. It was the second deadliest bus accident in recent years in the semi-autonomous southern Chinese city, which prides itself on one of the world's best public transport systems.

As Hong Kong went into mourning, the government responded to mounting pressure from lawmakers to call off the fireworks scheduled for the second day of Chinese New Year on Saturday.

Chinese tradition says the seventh day after a death is when the spirit of the deceased returns to bid farewell for the last time.

"Residents are grieving and want to express their sombre mood, and their respect and care for the dead and injured," said Chief Executive Carrie Lam. Scores of residents flooded Red Cross centres on Sunday to donate blood for the injured, local media reported.

A 30-year-old driver has been arrested for dangerous driving but the accident has also reignited concern over working conditions for bus drivers. Lam has pledged an independent investigation and called for a broad examination of the city's bus franchise system.Afghan security officials say that militant group Lashakar-e-Islam (Army of Islam) has been engaged in a fire fight with Islamic State militants in Achin district

KABUL, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) : Afghan security officials say that militant group Lashakar-e-Islam (Army of islam) has been engaged in a fire fight with Islamic State militants in Achin district. A spokesperson for Nangarhar Police Department, Hazrat Hussain Mashriqiwal said both groups sustained causalities during the fire fight that has dragged on for almost a week.

The groups are believed to be fighting for territorial control. "Six IS militants were killed and another four were wounded. Also, three Lashkar-e-Islam militants were killed and three others were wounded during the firefight," said Mashriqiwal. IS and Lashkar-e-Islam operate in Shirzad, Shinwar, Nazian and Achin districts of eastern Nangarhar province and have footprints in the Tora Bora area.

Tora Bora was once a stronghold of slain Al-Qaida leader Osama Bin Laden. Lashkar-e-Islam has been operating in the Pakistan-Afghanistan border area.

The group was reportedly founded by a local cleric, Mufti Munir Shakir, in 2004 in the Bara tribal area of north western Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. According to multiple reports, Mangal Bagh, also known as Haji Mangal Bagh Afridi, took charge of the group in 2015 after Munir went into hiding during a tribal dispute over his activities. Reports of Mangal Bagh's death have emerged a couple of times in Pakistani media.

But Pakistani officials and political experts dispute the reports and charge that he is still alive. "Lashkar-e-Islam is a militant group that has martyred dozens of Pakistan Army men in different fronts. It is a false claim and propaganda to say that the group is an ISI proxy." Shaukatulla Khan, former governor for northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan told VOA.Macedonia's door is always open to Turkish businesses, which can invest tax-free for 10 years, the country's prime minister said late Sunday

ANKARA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Macedonia's door is always open to Turkish businesses, which can invest tax-free for 10 years, the country's prime minister said late Sunday.

Zoran Zaev said he hopes to more than double the bilateral trade volume from $475 million to $1 billion, at a business dinner hosted by the Turkish Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges (TOBB) in the capital Ankara.

Last year, Turkey's exports to Macedonia totaled $360.6 billion and imports $101.6 billion, according to the Turkish Statistical Institute. Macedonia has several investment zones with up to 10-year tax holidays for corporate profits, employment income, VAT, customs duties and others, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Zaev added: "We also cover some personnel costs. We invite, as the prime minister, ministers, and parliamentarians, Turkish businesspeople for collaboration.

" Macedonia's free trade zone can be a gateway to Europe for Turkish businesspeople, he stressed, adding: "The area around Macedonia has a high potential, and there are opportunities especially in agriculture, construction, and energy." He also said that all companies that invest in Macedonia are seen as Macedonian firms.

Around 100 Turkish businesspeople have investments worth 1.2 billion ($1.47 billion) in Macedonia, said Faik Yavuz, a member of TOBB's board. He underlined that a number of Turkish entrepreneurs are doing feasibility studies on investing in the country.

Reworking of the 2000 free trade agreement between Macedonia and Turkey is expected, he stressed, adding: "We expect the Macedonian prime minister's support. We will give all support to developing Macedonia."(@FahadShabbir)

Muslim pilgrims from all over the world would surely have noticed the frantic pace of development taking place over the past years in the holy city of Makkah while performing the Hajj and Umrah, Bernama reported

KUALA LUMPUR,(APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Muslim pilgrims from all over the world would surely have noticed the frantic pace of development taking place over the past years in the holy city of Makkah while performing the Hajj and Umrah, Bernama reported.

Similar scenes could be seen at the Prophet's Mosque in Madina which has witnessed a huge expansion. This is testament to the seriousness of Saudi Arabia in taking its responsibility to ensure the interests of pilgrims are taken care of in the best possible manner every year.

Indeed, the kingdom, which is home to Islam's two holy sites of Makkah and Madina, has ambitious plans to accommodate up to 30 million Haj and Umrah pilgrims in the coming years, according to its Vision 2030 introduced by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

What is certain is that the Saudis welcome pilgrims from countries all over the world, underscoring that no politics should be at play in discharging its heavy responsibility towards the Muslim Ummah that currently numbers over 1.8 billion.

Saudi Arabia, which considers serving pilgrims as an Islamic duty, rejects any attempt to politicise Hajj or efforts towards the internationalisation of the Haramain Sharifain (Makkah and Madina) administration since it has managed to organise Hajjj affairs in a peaceful, professional and perfect manner over the past decades.

"The government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has extended all efforts to serve Haj and Umrah pilgrims as part of its Islamic duty, and it will keep rendering such services for the sake of Allah's guests," a source at the Saudi Arabian Information Ministry said in response to queries from Bernama.

Vision 2030 includes a strategic and comprehensive plan to develop the sector to allow the largest number of Muslims possible to perform the Haj and Umrah. More than two million Muslims from all over the world converge on Saudi Arabia annually to perform the haj in a journey of faith.

For Malaysia, the Saudi Arabian government had given the green light for the Malaysian haj quota to be increased to 30,200 from 27,900, starting with the 2017 haj season. Observers said this positive development stemmed from the close ties forged between Prime Minister Najib Razak and His Majesty King Salman who made his maiden state visit to Malaysia last year.

Najib is also a frequent guest of the Saudi government, his last working visit there was in January during which he was given the rare privilege of entering the Kaabah which marks the direction that Muslims around the world face when praying.

For the Saudi government, there is no denying that developing hajj and umrah organisations and services in the kingdom is among its top priorities, and an extension of the country's historic role in serving Muslims.

Combating terrorism and projecting moderate values of islam, initiatives championed by Crown Prince Mohammed which have drawn positive response in Malaysia in particular and the international community at large in general  are other major endeavours by Saudi Arabia in the international arena.

Saudi Arabia's resolve to boost the Haj and Umrah sector partly stems from its recurring success in managing huge Umrah crowds, allowing nearly 6.5 million pilgrims from across the globe to perform their religious duties.

The kingdom has embarked on what is touted as the largest expansion of the Makkah Grand Mosque so as to increase the capacity annually, something that is urgently needed. Finding a solution to this issue is the focus of King Salman as he's making the largest expansion in the history of the holy mosque to accommodate more than 1.6 million worshippers in normal circumstances, as well as significant numbers of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah.

Besides strategic development of the holy sites facilities and services, Vision 2030 also calls for the development of a world-class Haramain train network linking Makkah, Jeddah and Madina as well as housing projects and tents for pilgrims.

In addition, it is eyeing the establishment of large modern airports to receive more guests, as well as completion targets of the expansion projects. The Saudis are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to security of their haj and umrah guests as the vision calls for providing active security management to protect pilgrims.

The Saudi government views this as its fundamental duty and it has so far succeeded in organising peaceful hajj seasons over the years. "Saudi Arabia will spare no effort in bolstering its security, defending its stability and preserving interests of the pilgrims," the Saudi source said.

And it is understandably proud of the meticulous preparation and careful execution of planning that resulted in a zero-mistake 2017 haj period. Besides security, the Saudis are also concerned with the wellbeing of haj and umrah pilgrims, and this is reflected in the vision itself.

The vision focuses on expanding health and medical services for pilgrims by preparing hospital and health centres to provide top-of-the-line services round-the-clock, in addition to sewage, cleanliness and lighting services at the holy sites and the Jamarat Bridge.

A scrutiny of the details contained in Vision 2030 will reveal a shift from seasonal work to a year-long work system and culture to enhance services and meet its objectives. And King Salman is not taking things for granted as he has directed all relevant agencies to redouble their efforts and provide all facilities for the benefit of pilgrims.Colombo, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Sri Lanka's former leader Mahinda Rajapakse on Monday demanded a snap general election and challenged his successor's right to govern after drubbing the ruling coalition in crucial mid-term polls.

Rajapakse's new party secured two-thirds of Sri Lanka's councils in a surprise blitz of local elections, humiliating the governing alliance as it reels from internal crises and divisions over leadership.

"The government no longer has a mandate," said Rajapakse, who lost presidential and parliamentary polls in 2015 after ruling the island with an iron fist for a decade. "I ask the president to call a general election." Rajapakse, whose family wields enormous influence in Sri Lanka, staged a dramatic comeback at the weekend as his Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna -- SLPP or People's Front -- pulled off the landslide victory.

Rajapakse's party comfortably won in all regions bar the battle-scarred north and east where, as president, he brutally crushed a separatist Tamil movement to end the island's ethnic war in 2009.

The vote affects only the lowest rung of politics but the result is being seen as a stinging rebuke to the ruling coalition, which has struggled to pass promised post-war reforms. President Maithripala Sirisena was elected in part on a promise to reform the constitution, grant greater autonomy to minority Tamils and reconcile for a decades-long ethnic war that claimed more than 100,000 lives.

Parliament has been debating the proposed arrangements to share political power with Tamils but has made little ground.(@rukhshanmir)

Two US diplomats were involved in an accident while climbing Mexico's highest summit - the inactive Citlaltepetl volcano - authorities said, adding that bad weather forced them to postpone air rescue efforts

Puebla, Mexico, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :Two US diplomats were involved in an accident while climbing Mexico's highest summit - the inactive Citlaltepetl volcano - authorities said, adding that bad weather forced them to postpone air rescue efforts.

Officials did not specify the exact roles of the unidentified diplomats, one of whom suffered a fall, forcing the other to seek help from the US embassy. "In coordination with Mexico's mountain rescue brigade and the United States embassy, action is being taken to rescue two diplomats missing on Citlaltepetl," the civil protection authority for the state of Puebla said in a statement.

"They did not advise any authorities, municipal or state, about the route or date of their ascent," a local government source told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Officials said two helicopters were dispatched but bad weather prevented them from reaching the climbers.

Emergency personnel set off on foot to camp with them and wait until conditions improved -- or failing that, to evacuate the injured climber on stretcher. Best known as Pico de Orizaba, the 5,610-meter (18,400-foot) mountain on the border between the states of Puebla and Veracruz attracts professional climbers from around the world as well as poorly-equipped amateurs.

Last November, authorities recovered the body of an American mountaineer from the same summit, following a risky rescue operation which injured one worker.US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson held talks Monday in Cairo with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry at the start of a Middle East tour

Cairo, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Feb, 2018 ) :US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson held talks Monday in Cairo with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry at the start of a middle East tour.

Tillerson landed in Cairo late Sunday and had dinner with Shoukry. On Monday morning, the two foreign ministers met behind closed doors and then addressed reporters, and later Tillerson had talks with Sisi before heading to the airport on route to Kuwait.

Tillerson's visit comes as Sisi, who has been president since 2014, looks set to be re-elected next month in polls in which he will face a single opponent. All serious potential presidential contenders have either been jailed or withdrew, with some claiming the entire process was not conducive to free elections.

Speaking about the polls due to be held March 26 - 28, Tillerson told reporters that Washington supports "a transparent credible electoral process". "We have always advocated free, transparent, fair elections, not just in Egypt but in any country," he said in response to a question on whether the elections would be considered credible, free or fair.

Tillerson's trip to Cairo comes after Vice President Mike Pence visited last month to discuss security in the region and the future of US aid to Egypt. However, Tillerson did not respond to a question on whether the US would freeze part of its military aid to Egypt if the elections were deemed not credible.

"On the elections, we support a genuine and a credible electoral process, and we believe should guarantee the right for all citizens to participate freely and fairly," a US State Department official said ahead of Tillerson's visit.

- 'Concerns over human rights' - The same official, however, mentioned "concerns about human rights and civil society" as "a topic of continuing conversation with the Egyptians." "We have noted our concerns about the reports that Egypt's prosecutor general has launched an investigation into opposition figures ahead of the" vote, he added.

Right groups accuse the Egyptian government of arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances of dissidents, which spiked after the military overthrew Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in 2013 and cracked down on his supporters.

Asked to comment about Egypt's human rights record, Shoukry told reporters they should see for themselves "the nature of the current situation in Egypt" and "how the the Egyptian people view this administration and its efforts to strengthen and protect human rights and whether there is this sense of restriction that you allude to." Tillerson said he also discussed with Shoukry a joint commitment by the United States and Egypt to defeat the Islamic State group, adding that their joint efforts are "steadfast".

They also discussed the Israeli-Palestinian peace process and Tillerson said the US administration "remains committed to achieving a peace agreement between Israelis and the Palestinians". He did not elaborate.

US President Donald Trump announced in December his decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and said he would move the US embassy there from Tel Aviv, sparking fury in Arab and Muslim countries.

On Syria's nearly seven-year war, Tillerson reiterated that the conflict can only be resolved through a UN-sponsored political framework. After Cairo, Tillerson is to head to Kuwait to take part in a ministerial meeting of the US-led military coalition that has been battling the Islamic State jihadist group in Iraq and neighbouring Syria.

He is also set to visit Jordan to meet King Abdullah II and Lebanon to meet President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Saad Hariri. He is then set to head to Turkey for discussions with Washington's NATO ally including on the conflict in Syria.San Francisco, CA (UroToday.com) Dr. Yasser Ged from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) discussed their institutions experience with metastatic chromophobe renal cell carcinoma with sarcomatoid features. Chromophobe RCC makes up 5-10% of RCC subtypes and is generally thought to confer favorable prognosis. However, presence of sarcomatoid features on histologic review can occur in any RCC subtype and is considered a hallmark of aggressive disease. The objective of this study was to assess outcomes in a cohort of patients with metastatic chromophobe RCC with sarcomatoid features.The authors queried the MSKCC institutional database between 2002-2017 to identify 27 patients diagnosed with metastatic chromophobe RCC with sarcomatoid features. Overall survival (OS) was calculated for all patients, and time to treatment failure (TTF) for those who received first-line therapy at MSKCC. Next generation sequencing with MSK-IMPACT was also performed in a subset of patients.Among these 27 patients with newly diagnosed metastatic chromophobe RCC with sarcomatoid features the clinical features are summarized:Two patients never received first line therapy based on poor performance status, and 16 were treated at MSKCC and received a median of two lines of systemic therapy. First line agents included sunitinib (n = 6), pazopanib (n = 2), temsirolimus (n = 2), everolimus + bevacizumab (n = 2), sunitinib + gemcitabine (n = 2) and interferon alpha (n = 2) with a median TTF of 2.1 months (0.9-14.5). Across the entire cohort, the median OS was 7.9 months (95% CI 4.2-11.2) with an estimated 1 year OS rate of 25%. Interestingly, by comparison, a cohort of 67 patients with metastatic chromophobe RCC lacking sarcomatoid features also treated at MSKCC 2002-17 achieved median OS of 38.1 months, (HR 4.6, 95% CI 2.6-8.3). In the six chromophobe RCC with sarcomatoid feature patients with next generation sequencing analysis,(n = 4),(n = 2) and(n = 2) were the most frequently altered genes.In summary, outcomes for patients with metastatic chromophobe RCC with sarcomatoid features was poor in contrast to patients with chromophobe RCC lacking sarcomatoid features. The lack of benefit observed across various classes of systemic agents warrants study of underlying biology and novel agents.Presented by: Yasser Ged, MBBS, MRCP, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NYCo-Authors: Andrea Knezevic, Yingbei Chen, Almedina Redzematovic, Maria Isabel Carlo, Chung-Han Lee, Darren R. Feldman, Sujata Patil, Robert J. Motzer, Martin Henner Voss; Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NYWritten by: Zachary Klaassen, MD, Urologic Oncology Fellow, University of Toronto, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, @zklaassen_md at the 2018 American Society of Clinical Oncology Genitourinary (ASCO GU) Cancers Symposium, February 8-10, 2018 - San Francisco, CAAfter decades of involvement in and support of harness racing, Maryland residents James and Sara Mae Wilkins have been honoured with a lifetime achievement award.

The Cloverleaf Standardbred Owners Association recognized the couple with a lifetime achievement award at this months annual banquet, held at the Kent Island Volunteer Fire Department. Tom Cooke, former CSOA president, nominated them for the award.

We will probably never be able to find a nicer couple in our industry, CSOA Executive Vice President Gina Maybee said as she presented the award. The industry is better with you in it.

The Wilkins, who live in Willards, Md., are well known at Ocean Downs and Rosecroft Raceway. Theyve campaigned local standouts such as Bo Jam, a Maryland Sire Stakes winner who equalled a track record held by SJs Photo as a two-year-old, and Spriggy, a son of Navasota that raced from 1982 to 1993 and earned more than $227,000. While the Wilkins never have more than a few horses at a time, they continue to be familiar, friendly faces at Delmarva racetracks.

We thank you for all that you have done over the years and look forward to the treats and conversation you bring to the paddock, Maybee said.

(Cloverleaf Standardbred Owners Association)

Top Vegas party destination, Crazy Horse III, will invite university students to trade pools for poles this Spring Break with Spring Break Strip Down parties throughout the month of March.

The award-winning gentlemens club will invite college students 21 or older with a valid university I.D. to a complimentary cocktail, expedited entry and complimentary limo transportation to celebrate Spring Break. Crazy Horse III will also offer Spring Breakers daily specials from noon to 9 p.m., with a choice between $20 mix-and-match beer buckets or a $200 VIP package, complete with a bottle of Absolut Vodka and a bottle of Moet Imperial Brut Champagne.The killing of three conservationists patrolling Cambodia's biggest carbon credit project exposes the nearly insurmountable conflicts of interest plaguing schemes in which huge corporations such as Disney and Virgin Atlantic have invested millions of dollars, observers say.

Military Police Officer Sek Wathana, Environment Ministry Ranger Teurn Soknai and Wildlife Conservation Society staffer Thol Khna were shot dead Jan. 30 in O'Raing district while patrolling in the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary.

Border Police Chief Phal Penh confessed to the shooting. He and his partner, Military Police Officer Keut Veha, have been charged with premeditated murder, while another military police officer, Keut Veta, has been charged as an accomplice.

Penh has alleged in a videotaped confession that the victims tried to solicit bribes to keep quiet about illegal logging they had witnessed, although court and Ministry of Environment officials say they do not believe him.

The 292,690-hectare Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary, in Cambodia's northeast, is protected under the purview of the ministry and is supposed to be the example of Cambodian carbon credit plans.

In a major coup in 2016, the Wildlife Conservation Society, or WCS, helped negotiate the sale of $2.6 million worth of carbon credits in the protected area to The Walt Disney Corp. through an initiative known as REDD+, which stands for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.

Critics' questions

REDD+ is designed to enable polluting corporations to offset their emissions by paying developing countries to protect forests, which store significant amounts of carbon dioxide. The process is supposed to stop much of this carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere by slowing deforestation, although critics of the scheme have long raised questions about how this is measured and enforced, or whether it amounts to a reduction at all.

In its role in the Keo Seima REDD+ project, WCS must negotiate a precarious balance among competing interests to try to guarantee those credits in an area where cross-border illegal logging is a well-documented trade linked to powerful local officials.

WCS Country Director Ken Serey Rotha said his organization could not negotiate those interests alone.

"You get all the ingredients, and it's a matter of what kind of lunch you want to cook," he said. "We are here to help government to protect and conserve natural resources, forestry and wildlife. ... Basically, the ball is in the hand of government."

Rotha refused to discuss the implications of the killings on the carbon credit program, while Disney has not responded to VOA requests for comment.

In January, Virgin Atlantic announced it was pulling out of Cambodia's first REDD+ project in Oddar Meanchey province following the release of a damning report on the project by the nongovernmental organization FERN, which showed ongoing and rampant illegal logging linked to military syndicates.

A 2016 study by Sango Mahanty and Sarah Milne, lecturers at Australian National University, examined how a juggernaut of powerful interests, including military and border police, have logged and cleared areas of the Seima Protected Forest since 2005.

Little restraint on powerful actors

Describing Keo Seima as a "frontier borderland" where carbon conservation efforts looked "rather quaint in the face of Seima's deforestation problem," the authors concluded that powerful actors "pursue their interests almost unhindered."

Milne is a lecturer in the Resources, Environment and Development Group at Australian National University's Crawford School of Public Policy. She said it was "incredibly hard" to make sure carbon credits didn't "evaporate" under such conditions.

Evidence of violence in REDD+ project areas should be a signal to Disney and any buyer of carbon credits about what is actually packed inside those credits, Milne said.

"It's an ephemeral and risky kind of commodity, so that's a warning to Disney, and that's a warning to all buyers," she said.

Conservationists like Milne see the voluntary Oddar Meanchey and Keo Seima projects as test sites for a national framework for selling compulsory carbon credits that the United Nations and its partners aim to have up and running by 2020.

U.N. Development Program Country Director Nick Beresford told VOA his organization and the national framework project "have no relationship with either the Oddar Meanchey project or the Keo Seima voluntary forest carbon projects."

"We therefore, do not monitor its implementation nor evaluate its results," he wrote in an emailed response.

Vietnam's Department of Customs data just compiled and released by deforestation nonprofit monitor group Forest Trends show that, despite a government ban on exports of timber to Vietnam in 2016, the number of Cambodian logs imported by its eastern neighbor from border areas like Keo Seima increased by close to 20 percent in 2017.

Chea Sam Ang, general director of natural resources preservation at the Ministry of Environment, declined to speak about the carbon credit project.

Environment Minister Say Samal reportedly held up the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary as an example of Cambodia's success in combating illegal logging at a business luncheon in January, according to The Phnom Penh Post.Cambodias growing economy is a source of pride for Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has said his leadership has fostered an unprecedented development and has rejected the influence of foreign powers in steering Cambodia away from decades of conflict.

Speaking during the opening of a cement factory on Thursday in Kampot province, the former Khmer Rouge commander said the Paris Peace Agreement, which marked the official end of hostilities in Cambodias long-running civil war, did not make way for the current market economy. Rather, it was his foresight that allowed Cambodia to progress.

While many countries were implementing a planned economy, I turned to drive the implementation of the market economy, he said. Please dont get confused that the Paris Agreement is the agent which brought the market economy to Cambodia. Please dont say this. It is wrong speech.

Meas Ny, a political analyst, however, said the creation of a market economy in Cambodia was directly linked to the Paris Agreement, which stipulated that the country implement a free market.

He went on to say that that policy was later written into the Cambodian constitution.

No matter what type of work the government has done, it is a result of the Paris conference. The concepts of the agreement have been copied and pasted into the constitution, while the government also acknowledged the relationship between the constitution and the agreement. What we worry about is that they try to change the constitution so it lost the ideals of the Paris agreement, he said.

Without the Paris agreement, he continued, there would be no winners and no losers in the war at that time, meaning the blood would have kept flowing.

If there was no Paris conference, there would be no peace. We would have continued to fight each other without end, he added.

Cambodias economic growth is forecast to remain stable at just short of seven percent in 2018, according to the World Bank.

However, the Bank warned of risks from political instability that may arise during the election period next year. Downside risks to this outlook are a slowdown in the Chinese economy and potential election-related uncertainty, it said.The United States has negotiated a deal to resume the deportation of Cambodians, many of whom arrived as refugees, under a controversial resettlement program.

A deal between the two governments under which hundreds of Cambodians had been sent back from the United States since 2002 fell apart last year when Phnom Penh reportedly stopped accepting returnees.

U.S. officials retaliated by placing visa sanctions on Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials in September. On Friday, Cambodian officials succumbed to an offer to lift those bans.

After a meeting between Cambodian Interior Minister Sar Kheng and Carl C. Risch, visiting assistant U.S. secretary of state for consular affairs, Phat Phanith, director of the International Relations Department, said the pair had agreed to resume the deal.

"Samdech [Sar Kheng] also informed the delegates that Cambodia generally fulfills its obligation to take its citizens, but everything had to be thoroughly discussed," he said.

"Samdech also asked that the U.S. government increase financial support to Cambodian citizens returning to Cambodia so that they could have a better start in life and successfully integrate into Cambodian society."

In the past, deportees have been left in a country most have never lived in with no government support, leaving a handful of NGOs to scramble to provide them basic services.

Extortion allegations

The latest agreement came as the deportation program faces renewed scrutiny amid accusations from deportees that Cambodian officials have been using the process to extort bribes in U.S. detention centers.

These accusations, first reported in The Phnom Penh Post, were revealed in a U.S. federal court ruling late last month that barred the Trump administration from repatriating 92 Cambodians until they had a chance to legally challenge their deportation orders.

At a news conference in Phnom Penh on Friday before the deal was reached, Risch said he was unaware of the bribery allegations but hoped Cambodian officials would cooperate in return for lifting the visa sanctions.

"That's my goal," he said. "I would like to see the sanctions eventually be lifted and have Cambodia be cooperative in taking back their repatriation cases."

"What we're making sure can be done is that there will be a repeatable, dependable uniform process going forward," he said.

Most Cambodian deportees are sent back after serving jail sentences for felony convictions.

Critics say this is a form of double punishment meted out to refugees already traumatized after fleeing the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge regime and subsequent turmoil in Cambodia.

When asked Friday whether deporting such individuals in this way was humane, Risch simply reaffirmed his intention to pressure Cambodia into resuming the agreement. The Asian Law Caucus, which has been providing legal support to the deportees, stressed that the people harmed by the program were refugee families who faced permanent separation as a result.

"The latest diplomatic talks don't change the fact that these detentions and deportations of longtime U.S. residents are unjustified and immoral," the caucus said in an emailed statement.JAKARTA, INDONESIA - Hundreds of activists protested outside Indonesias House of Representatives building on Monday against proposed revisions to the nations criminal code, which could outlaw gay and extramarital sex.

The so-called Civil Society Alliance to Reject the Draft Criminal Code activists included feminists, LGBTQ people, sex workers, indigenous people, labor union members, and more.

Speaking at the protest, queer activist Lini Zurlia said it was the first in a series of protests against the revisions; the next one is planned for Wednesday.

We're calling on fellow Indonesians to join the next protest, Zurlia said.

Intersectional alliance

Although the most sensational part of the revisions has been the criminalization of various forms of sex (grouped together under the Islamic concept of zina, or unlawful sexual intercourse), the sweeping nature of the proposals also affect less-obvious groups. It is possible that distributing means of, or even information on, contraception will become illegal for unlicensed individuals, which includes most nonprofits.

Zina laws already criminalize sex workers. If we cant distribute things like condoms, it could create major public health issues. said Wawan of OPSI, a national sex workers' alliance.

Indigenous people could also be affected because they frequently engage in adat, or customary law marriages that are not recognized by the state. Many of them could be considered criminals under the new code for technically having extramarital sex. Several members of Indonesias Alliance of Indigenous People of the Archipelago, or AMAN, attended the protest.

FILE - Judges read their verdict on the case of a FILE - Judges read their verdict on the case of a petition seeking to make gay sex and sex outside marriage illegal during a hearing at the Constitutional Court in Jakarta, Indonesia, Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017. FILE - Judges read their verdict on the case of a petition seeking to make gay sex and sex outside marriage illegal during a hearing at the Constitutional Court in Jakarta, Indonesia, Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017.

The most severe anti-LGBT language appears to have been expunged from the latest draft of the code, which explicitly criminalizes only same-sex relations with minors under 18. But there remained a sense that its not over until its over.

It's plain to see that the revised criminal code purely stemmed out of political interest, as is the case with Indonesia's current sociopolitical going-ons, said Fajar Zakhri, a 26-year-old gay man who attended the protest today. Therefore, I felt the importance of being present in assisting the fight and making sure that, once and for all, justice for everyone is served. In a young democracy such as Indonesia, this is an incessant fight that will not quit until the obsolete generations are no longer hogging the Indonesian life.

I think this is a slippery slope, said Amar, an activist with the Indonesian Drug Users Network (PKNI). Its simply not humanist. It doesnt affect our agenda directly, but I think actions like this will happen more often if we dont take a stand now.

There were about 200 protesters outside Parliament, an impressive showing across sectors, especially since it was planned with just a few days notice. But it was notably smaller than recent civic actions by Islamists in Jakarta, who have attracted thousands of protesters in the past year for causes ranging from arraigning the previous governor for a blasphemy charge to resisting the revival of the Indonesian Communist Party.

FILE - Indonesian gay activists hold posters durin FILE - Indonesian gay activists hold posters during a protest demanding equality for LGBT (Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) people in Jakarta, Indonesia, May 21, 2011. FILE - Indonesian gay activists hold posters during a protest demanding equality for LGBT (Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) people in Jakarta, Indonesia, May 21, 2011.

Delayed decision

Activists originally expected the revisions to be announced Wednesday, Valentines Day. But the decision has seemingly been postponed until March, according to several women who helped organize a Change.org petition to protest the revisions.

Every major political party has backed some form of the criminalizations under review, which is regarded as a coup for political Islam in the worlds largest Muslim-majority country.

Ichsan Soelistio, a legislator from Indonesias ruling PDIP told the Washington Post this week that while his party rejects full criminalization, they have still agreed to allow prosecuting gay and extramarital sex but only if one of the sexual partners or their family members report the crime to police.

Last week, the chairman of the team leading the revision process said that the moral policing aspect of the revisions had been mitigated, because whereas any third party could once report zina, it had been changed to immediate relatives  husbands, wives, parents, and children.

Meanwhile, contempt of the president is still on track to be an imprisonable offense.Journalist and writer Helen Thorpe spent one school year in a classroom with immigrant and refugee students from various cultures who were just learning to speak English.

She watched them overcome challenges and work hard to succeed in school and beyond. Thorpe shares their stories in a new book, The Newcomers: Finding Refuge, Friendship and Hope in an American Classroom.

Tearing down barriers

Sitting in Room 142 at South High School in Denver, Colorado, Thorpe had an opportunity to meet the world.

The class included 22 foreign students from countries such as Mozambique, Burma, Eritrea, El Salvador, Mexico, Iraq, Congo, Bhutan, Tajikistan and Mauritania.

"They had ... the ordinary struggles of the teenagers everywhere, plus this extra added burden of being in a new country and trying to figure out a new culture and trying to figure out a new language, all at the same time," Thorpe said.

The 22 students spoke 14 different languages.

"Many of the students were the only one in the room who spoke a certain language," she added. "The majority of the students were very isolated in the classroom and in general, in their new life in America. They weren't able yet to make friends because they were just starting out learning English. So, that loneliness is something that they all were struggling to overcome."

But as time went by, they were able to overcome it.

"I watched this loneliness dissipate and go away as they figured out they could use Google Translate to send and text messages back and forth from their home languages to another person's home language," Thorpe said.

What these students were hungry for, she said, was to learn how to speak, to feel like they were accepted at their new high school, and to feel that they belong to a community.

Comfortable in their own identity

In her book, Thorpe details some of the challenges many of these students faced.

Iraqi sisters Jakleen and Mariam struggled with difficult memories. Thorpe learned they had witnessed a car bombing.

"When their family fled from Iraq, they went to Syria. They survived the Syrian civil war, as well as the Iraq war. Their father vanished during that time, their mother became a single parent. She struggled to keep the girls safe. They fled to Turkey. Then she got a chance to resettle here in the U.S.," Thorpe said.

Coming to the United States was the first opportunity the sisters had in a decade to live in a safe home. However, they faced a new challenge: how to define their identity.

"One of the two girls wore a headscarf, covered her hair, and because of that she encountered a lot of prejudice here," Thorpe said. "So, the difficulty of settling in in the U.S., fitting in in America, becoming an American, for her, especially, was daunting because people were belittling her heritage all the time."

However, as her classmates got to know her, they started to understand, accept and respect her, which helped her define her identity and fit in.

Second chance at education

Many students in the class had missed a lot of school, so they had to work hard to succeed once they were back in a classroom.

Solomom and his brother Methusella grew up on the eastern side of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Armed conflicts forced their family to flee to a refugee settlement in Uganda.

"They stayed there for seven years," Thorpe said. "Their whole extended family made this journey. Then, just Solomon and Methusella, their siblings and their parents were the only members of their extended family to get the chance [to come to America]. They were desperate to have a better lifestyle, a chance to stay in school, but at the same time they felt a little bit guilty that the rest of their family didn't get the same chance they had been given."

Methusella will graduate from high school next year. He credits his classmates and his own determination with helping him succeed.

"The first time I stepped into the classroom, I was asking myself, why I'm here and I realized I'm here to learn," he said. "I thought it was a chance for me to step up and fulfill my dream, have a good education and succeed. And I learned mostly from the students I met in school, in the cafeteria, while eating lunch with them."

His brother Solomon says that wasn't easy.

"I wasn't speaking any English. I couldn't even say, 'Hi,' " Solomon recalled. "We used to push ourselves, to go to the cafeteria and sit with other students and try to make a conversation. At the beginning, we were just sitting, looking at each other. We tried our best just to say 'Hi.' "

Gifted teacher

Solomon says one of their teachers, Eddie Williams, was friendly, persistent and patient, and encouraged them to learn.

"We had a nice teacher who liked to teach and he knows how to teach," he said.

Thorpe said Williams is an extraordinary teacher. "His greatest skill was working one-on-one with individual students."

In her book, she explains how the English Language Acquisition teacher kept each student interested in learning and working to reach his or her potential.

"He really wanted to make sure that all the kids in his care understood that if they didn't know English when they walked into his room, that was perfectly OK with him," she added. "And he understood that they, nonetheless, were highly intelligent and possibly speaking other languages and he would appreciate them and show them respect and dignity."

Thorpe notes that while South High School gave the newcomers the chance to gain knowledge, they gave their classmates the chance to learn about the world.Two children were killed and two were seriously wounded Monday after ordnance detonated in a central Somali village, witnesses said.

Two boys, ages 14 and 9, died "when an explosive device [that] one of them was playing with exploded in an open field near their home," Abdi Jama, the boys' uncle, told VOA's Somali Service. He said two girls  one a 4-year-old, the other 18 months  were seriously injured.

The incident occurred in the El Lahelay village near Dhusa Mareeb in the Galgaduud region, about 480 kilometers or 300 miles north of Somalia's capital of Mogadishu.

Galgaduud Region Somalia

Recent armed conflict between government forces and al-Shabab militants in the area has left unexploded ordnance (UXO) around rural villages, Jama said.

After two decades of internal conflict, "Somalia is significantly contaminated with mines" and explosive remnants of war (ERW), such as grenades, artillery shells, mortar and bombs, the Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor reported in December. The Monitor is a civil society-based initiative that promotes the cleanup of the deadly devices.

From January through August of last year, 34 people were killed or maimed by mines and explosive remnants of war, according to a United Nations report that cited the Somalia Information Management System for Mine Action. Of those, 27  almost four out of five  were children.

For instance, one child died and 17 people were injured when a grenade went off at an IDP camp in Somalias Sool region last July.

Children have been killed, blinded or otherwise maimed while playing with unexploded ordnance or munitions left behind on battlefields.

Abdullahi Hassan, a former Somali National Army colonel, said children can be attracted to the colorful, unusual devices.

Abdiwahid Moalim Isaq contributed to this report.The British government is warning charities and humanitarian relief organizations that it will withdraw public funding if they fail to establish effective internal reviews to prevent and investigate sexual predatory behavior and abuse by their aid workers.

The warning came Sunday in the wake of disclosures that one of the countrys biggest charities, Oxfam, failed to disclose its dismissal in 2011 of senior aid workers who paid local prostitutes, some likely under-age, for sex parties in Haiti in the wake of a devastating earthquake that killed more than 200,000 people and left 300,000 injured and 1.5 million homeless.

Four men were fired and three were allowed to resign, including Oxfam's country director for Haiti. But they were also given references by Oxfam, enabling them to join other aid agencies, despite allegations of sexual exploitation of quake survivors and the downloading of pornography, as well as bullying and intimidation.

A 2011 internal report that wasnt made public uncovered "a culture of impunity" and noted, "it cannot be ruled out that any of the prostitutes were under-aged."

Oxfam failed to provide full details to Britains Charity Commission, a regulatory body, about the probe and what the charitys critics called an exercise of power over vulnerable people.

London's Haiti Ambassador demands apology



And it didnt inform Haitis government  a disclosure that has prompted the Haitian ambassador in London to demand a formal public apology from the aid agency.

Penny Mordaunt, Britains international development minister, condemned Sunday what she described as "horrible behavior" by Oxfam staff in Haiti and said public funding of the charity is now in jeopardy. She has threatened to pull government funding not only from Oxfam but from any British charity that falls below expected standards.

"With regard to Oxfam and any organization that has safeguarding issues, we expect them to cooperate fully, and we will cease to fund any organization that does not," she said.

Oxfam received $45 million from the British government in 2017 and received more than $200 million in donations from the British public. Now, there are also questions about similar behavior by Oxfam aid workers in Chad more than a decade ago.

FILE - An Oxfam logo is seen on one of the organiz FILE - An Oxfam logo is seen on one of the organization's bookshops in Glasgow, Scotland, Feb. 10, 2018. FILE - An Oxfam logo is seen on one of the organization's bookshops in Glasgow, Scotland, Feb. 10, 2018.

"I am affording them the opportunity to tell me in person what they did after these events, and I'm going to be looking to see if they are displaying the moral leadership that I think they need to now," Mordaunt said in a television interview. "If they do not hand over all the information that they have from their investigation and subsequently to the relevant authorities, including the Charity Commission and prosecuting authorities, then I cannot work with them any more as an aid delivery partner," she said.

Safeguarding concerns



The minister has informed all British charities that receive government funds that they must declare all "safeguarding concerns" or lose funding.

But Mordaunts predecessor, Priti Patel, said the government doesnt have the moral high ground on the issue and fears the problem is more widespread.

"Predatory pedophiles" have been allowed to exploit the aid sector, she said Sunday. Patel said when she was international development minister, she faced obstruction from her ministerial staff and "internal pushback" when trying to probe exploitation claims against aid workers.

"I did my own research, and I have to say, I had a lot of pushback within my own department. I pushed hard  I had pushback internally, and that is the scandal. The scandal is within the industry, people know about this," the former minister said, wondering why there were no prosecutions.

Figures analyzed by Britains Sunday Times revealed that in the past year alone, more than 120 workers for Britains top charities have been accused of sexual abuse, harassment or predatory behavior, mostly while serving overseas.

Oxfam recorded 87 incidents in 2017, of which 53 cases were referred to police or civilian authorities. Save the Children had 31 cases, 10 of which were referred to authorities

Oxfam denies cover up



Oxfam has admitted it made an error in failing to make public the Haiti sex scandal and the details of its investigation. Oxfams chief executive, Mark Goldring, said the charity is ashamed but has denied it sought to cover up the scandal.

"What we wanted to do was get on and deliver an aid program," Golding said. In a radio interview Saturday, he expressed regret for not addressing the issue.

"With hindsight, I would much prefer we had talked about sexual misconduct," he said.

Paying for sex is in breach of not only Oxfams code of conduct but the United Nations codes for the aid workers it funds. Oxfam did announce publicly that there had been misconduct in Haiti and that some staff had been terminated, but it did not reveal the misbehavior to Britain's Charity Commission.

Oxfam isnt alone in scandals involving Haiti. Last year, U.N. peacekeepers in the country were accused of participating in sex rings using food as a lure.

A Save the Children report in 2008 said sex exploitation by aid workers was underreported generally in countries hit by devastating disasters, man-made or natural.

"Children as young as six are trading sex with aid workers and peacekeepers for food, money, soap," the report said.ZAGREB - Croatia and Serbia vowed on Monday to intensify work on minority rights, border issues and searches for missing persons from their 1990s war, in an effort to improve ties that remain sour decades after the collapse of Yugoslavia.



Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic held talk at the beginning of a two-day official visit by Vicic to Croatia.



"The relations between Serbia and Croatia are burdened with the past, which this time we have not talked about. ... It is our task to talk and seek solutions for issues which divide us," Grabar-Kitarovic said after the two-hour talks.



Serbia and Croatia are the two biggest republics to emerge from Yugoslavia, which collapsed in 1991. They have sought to improve ties since a 1991-1995 war, but difficulties remain.



To join the European Union, Serbia must resolve outstanding issues with its neighbors, including Croatia.



The two presidents said they had agreed to improve cooperation in the ongoing search for several thousand missing Croats and Serbs from the 1991-95 war.



They also said the two former foes would try to resolve border issues in the next two years. If they cannot, they would turn to an international court.



"We will try to change the atmosphere in the next 100 days, and all the Serbian officials will have to do everything possible for better mutual relations. It will be a signal of goodwill from our side," Serbian President Vucic said.



"We view the past events differently, but we should mutually understand it, and I think the things will move forward," he said.



Around 1,000 people gathered to protest on the main Zagreb square against the visit by the Serbian president.



Later on Monday, the two presidents will address a forum of several dozen companies from both countries in an effort to strengthen economic ties. Besides talks with other top officials and the head of the Roman Catholic Church in Croatia, Vucic will visit some areas of Croatia populated by the country's Serb minority.LOS ANGELES - Plastic foam, plywood and some other plastic parts could make the difference between life and death.

These are the materials that make up a delivery drone created by DASH Systems. The California company also describes its lightweight aircraft as an unmanned aerial vehicle or glider.

It can be used to deliver up to 20 kilograms of food, medicine or other essential supplies to people in need in areas that traditional shipping and delivery companies cannot reach. And because it's made of low-cost materials, it's disposable, so there is no worry about getting it back.

"Many times, we found that during times of crisis or humanitarian need, it's very, very difficult to get supplies into remote regions," said Joel Ifill, chief executive officer and co-founder of DASH Systems.

"Couple that with reduced or destroyed infrastructure. Those are the areas and circumstances under which this system really shines," said DASH Systems co-founder Joe Caravella.

The system's aim is targeted, precision delivery. There is a built-in Global Positioning System device that provides enough accuracy to land the vehicle in the courtyard of a hospital.

"You can always fly an airplane overhead, so we help bridge that gap. Using our technology, you can throw a package out of an airplane and have it land right at the area of use," Ifill said.

DASH Systerms' UAV, or delivery drone, is display DASH Systerms' UAV, or delivery drone, is displayed at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January 2018. (E. Lee/VOA) DASH Systerms' UAV, or delivery drone, is displayed at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January 2018. (E. Lee/VOA)

The DASH Systems delivery drone will go to places too dangerous or remote for other global shipping services such as FedEx or DHL.

"So, for instance, a delivery in South Sudan or Puerto Rico  oftentimes every traditional carrier will say no. Organizations are willing to pay the fair market value for those trips. They just do not have the solution," said Ifill.

Ifill thought of this solution while working on smart bombs at a previous job.

"Actually, I felt bad about essentially making technology that was designed to harm and kill people. So, I wondered what else could I do with the technology of a smart bomb, something that can launch from an airplane and land within inches. And I thought, 'Why can't I use that same technology to deliver packages and goods?' "

DASH Systems says its unmanned glider is unlike other methods of delivery to remote places that have been developed thus far.

"There are a variety of parachute-type systems where you can drop things out of airplanes. We're hoping to improve the whole operation, both with deploying it at the right time and then guiding the package to where it needs to be, to be more accurate than anything currently on the market," said Caravella.Ethiopia will drop charges against top dissident Bekele Gerba, state media reported Monday.

The move is the latest by the Ethiopian government following up on Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn's promise last month to begin releasing political prisoners.

"The federal attorney general today dropped charges against seven suspects, including Bekele Gerba," state-affiliated Fana Broadcast Corporate reported.

"The move is part of the decisions made by [the] Executive Committee of EPRDF to drop charges against and pardon politicians and individuals, in order to build national consensus and widen the political space," the broadcaster said, referring to the ruling Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front.

Gerba, a foreign-language professor and deputy leader of the opposition Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC), was arrested in December 2015 as his ethnic group began protesting laws they feared would lead to them losing their land.

Since then, Gerba has faced additional charges, including "contempt" and six months in prison after he sang a protest song in court.

It is still unclear when Gerba will be released and whether the pardon includes charges he has incurred since his initial arrest.

The planned release and other recent prisoner releases are aimed at reducing tensions in the Horn of Africa country following a wave of anti-government protests in 2015 and 2016, mainly in the southern Oromia region, that sparked a nationwide state of emergency and a government crackdown.

The attorney general said 417 of those to be released are convicted prisoners, while another 329 are suspects still awaiting trial.NEW DELHI - Indian Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Monday accused the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed militant group of attacking on an army camp in Indian Kashmir and vowed that "Pakistan will pay for this misadventure."



The pre-dawn assault on Saturday by heavily armed militants claimed the lives of five soldiers, one civilian and three militants. Women and children were among 10 people wounded as the militants breached the residential quarters inside the camp.

An Indian soldiers take position as they surround Indian soldiers take position as they surround the residential quarters where militants are believed to be holed up in an Army camp in Jammu, India, Feb. 11, 2018. Indian soldiers take position as they surround the residential quarters where militants are believed to be holed up in an Army camp in Jammu, India, Feb. 11, 2018.

It was the worst militant attack in months in Kashmir and threatened to fuel tensions between India and Pakistan, whose ties are already at a low point.

Sitharaman visited the camp on Monday after it was secured by dozens of troops following a two-day gun battle.



Stating at a press conference that terrorists who carried out the assault were controlled by handlers from across the border, the defense minister said "Pakistan is expanding the arc of terror to the areas south of Pir Panjal [Himalayan] ranges and resorting to cease-fire violations to assist infiltration."

Militant attacks usually take place in the Kashmir valley, but the assault took place in Jammu, which lies to the south and has been relatively free of violence. New Delhi has long accused Pakistan of arming and training militants and helping them cross the border into Indian Kashmir to conduct strikes against Indian targets  allegations Islamabad denies.

Jammu and Kashmir

In a statement issued on Monday before the Indian defense minister's press conference, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry accused India of "making irresponsible statements and leveling unfounded allegations, even before any proper investigation in any incident has been initiated." It called on the international community to urge India to stop violations of human rights in Kashmir and "refrain from any misadventure across the Line of Control" that divides Kashmir between the two countries.

Rawalpindi, Islamabad Pakistan, Line of Control, K Rawalpindi, Islamabad Pakistan, Line of Control, Kashmir Rawalpindi, Islamabad Pakistan, Line of Control, Kashmir

In 2016, India said its troops had crossed into Pakistani Kashmir and carried out a raid on militant camps after an attack on an Indian army base in Kashmir.



Meanwhile, the chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir state, Mehbooba Mufti, in a tweet on Monday, called for talks with Pakistan. "Dialogue with Pakistan is necessary if we are to end bloodshed,"the minister said.



Analysts, however, say that is unlikely to happen due to the tough position taken by the federal government in New Delhi. "The diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan are virtually non-functional right now," said Manoj Joshi at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi. "The government is saying we will crush the militancy and then we will talk to Pakistan."

More violence flared in the restive region on Monday. Indian officials said one soldier was killed as security forces foiled an attempted attack on a paramilitary camp in Kashmir's summer capital, Srinagar.



The Himalayan region of Kashmir, divided between India and Pakistan but claimed by both, lies at the heart of their bitter relations. India accuses Pakistan of supporting armed militants to fuel an insurgency in India's only Muslim majority region, while Islamabad accuses New Delhi of human rights violations against Kashmiris.KUWAIT CITY - The Iraqi government's hope of raising close to $100 billion to reconstruct areas devastated by the Islamic State group appeared dim Monday, as an international reconstruction conference kicked off in Kuwait.

"The government has faced major and dangerous challenges," Mahdi al-Alak, the head of Iraq's Cabinet of Ministers, said of the country's more than three-year struggle to defeat the terrorist group. At one point, IS controlled as much as a third of Iraq's territory.

"This disrupted the economic and development process, especially that the country was facing one of the fiercest terrorist attacks and the government had to change its priorities and embark upon liberation," al-Alak noted.

At the same time, global oil prices plunged, and the combined shock severely impacted Iraq's economy.

A Kuwaiti official stands in front of an illuminat A Kuwaiti official stands in front of an illuminated sign for a conference on Iraq being held in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Feb. 12, 2018. A Kuwaiti official stands in front of an illuminated sign for a conference on Iraq being held in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Feb. 12, 2018.

Damages in IS-affected areas are estimated at $45.7 billion, according to an assessment by the Iraqi government and the World Bank. Recovery and reconstruction needs stand at just over $88 billion; the government is hoping to raise $100 billion to support the decade of work ahead.

Hopes of large contributions have faded, with the United States essentially confirming reports last week it would not be pledging any additional funds. Major contributions from wealthy Gulf Arab states do not appear likely either.

Enter the private sector.

Nearly 2,000 companies from 60 countries are expected to attend Tuesday's meetings on investing in Iraq. The conference co-chairs  Iraq, Kuwait, the European Union, the United Nations and the World Bank  hope to mobilize their money.

More than 150 U.S. companies have registered to attend, the largest contingent from any country, a conference official said.

Homeless Iraqi people push their belongings throug Homeless Iraqi people push their belongings through the rubble of al-Rashid military base belonging to the former Iraqi army in Baghdad, Iraq, Feb. 12, 2018. Homeless Iraqi people push their belongings through the rubble of al-Rashid military base belonging to the former Iraqi army in Baghdad, Iraq, Feb. 12, 2018.

A World Bank report declares Iraq is "fertile ground" for investments, with its huge oil reserves and need for reconstruction. "Despite the risk, investment in Iraq could provide among the highest rate of returns," the report concludes.

The National Investment Commission has identified over 190 projects in 12 sectors that span energy to ice cream factories.

Although officially defeated, IS still casts a long shadow in the region. Ministers will meet Tuesday to discuss protecting against a resurgence of the group in Iraq and neighboring Syria. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will be among those to address the session.

Iraqi officials say it is important to stabilize military success with work on the ground to prevent creating a space for IS or other extremist groups to re-emerge.

That is one of the reasons they hope to get a number of short-term projects up and running quickly, both to restore basic services and put citizens to work.NAIROBI - Kenyan lawyers are donning yellow ribbons this week to protest what they say are violations of the rule of law in the wake of opposition leader Raila Odinga's self-inauguration late last month. Odinga has rejected a call from Western diplomats to recognize Uhuru Kenyatta as the legitimately elected president.



Some lawyers in courts could be seen wearing a yellow ribbon Monday, as a way to show their displeasure with the state and some government officials for failing to obey several court orders.



Isaac Okero, president of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), said the idea is to "embark on this campaign to protest high levels of impunity and specifically, when it reaches a point where state and public officers can flagrantly disobey court orders, then we know we are in dangerous waters."



The LSK said it suspended a plan to boycott the court sessions and that it is still consulting with its members.



Recently, Miguna Miguna, a lawyer who had a prominent role in Odinga's self-inauguration on January 30, was arrested. He faced treason charges. But while the court ordered his release, the government failed to comply and sent him to Canada. Miguna holds Kenyan and Canadian citizenship.

Supporters of Kenyan opposition leader Raila Oding Supporters of Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga of the National Super Alliance (NASA) coalition protest against the treason charges on lawyer Miguna Miguna in the streets of Kisumu, Kenya, Feb. 6, 2018. Supporters of Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga of the National Super Alliance (NASA) coalition protest against the treason charges on lawyer Miguna Miguna in the streets of Kisumu, Kenya, Feb. 6, 2018.

The state is also accused of disobeying a court order after failing to switch on three independent TV stations. The broadcasters say the government orchestrated a media blackout to prevent live coverage of Odinga's swearing-in as the so-called "people's president."



The stations are now back on the air.



In a statement Sunday, U.S. ambassador Robert Godec and envoys from several European Union nations called on Odinga to recognize President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration.

FILE - Opposition leader Raila Odinga (C) accompan FILE - Opposition leader Raila Odinga (C) accompanied by lawyers Miguna Miguna (C-L), Tom "T.J." Kajwang, (C-R) and politician James Orengo (R) holds a bible aloft after swearing an oath during a mock "swearing-in" ceremony at Uhuru Park in downtown Nairobi, Kenya, Jan. 30, 2018. FILE - Opposition leader Raila Odinga (C) accompanied by lawyers Miguna Miguna (C-L), Tom "T.J." Kajwang, (C-R) and politician James Orengo (R) holds a bible aloft after swearing an oath during a mock "swearing-in" ceremony at Uhuru Park in downtown Nairobi, Kenya, Jan. 30, 2018.

Speaking at a public gathering in Nairobi, however, Odinga told the envoys to stay out of Kenyan affairs.



"We want to tell them in clear terms Kenya is an independent country and Kenyan problem will be resolved by Kenyan people," he said. "They can only be observers."



Some of Odinga's key allies have been arrested and had their passports withdrawn. The security detail for some opposition lawmakers has also been withdrawn.



Odinga boycotted an October re-run of the August presidential election. Kenyatta received 98 percent of the vote in the October polling.



The Western envoys also called on the Kenyan government to comply with court orders and respect freedom of speech.



Raphael Tuju, the ruling Jubilee party secretary-general, said the opposition coalition National Super Alliance, or NASA, has disobeyed more court orders. He accused some judges of being biased.



"We have this situation where you almost say that Supreme Court and the constitutional court sometimes are just winking at NASA to the extent that we begin to wonder whether they are an extension of NASA," he said. "Now, of course, we do understand this is a very complicated country, and some judges have more of their loyalty to their ethnic communities as opposed to loyalty to the law."



This Thursday, lawyers are expected to march in the streets to pressure the government to respect the constitution and the laws.Kuwait on Monday opened a week of conferences seeking aid for rebuilding Iraq after the onslaught of the Islamic State group, seeking tens of billions of dollars for a nation only a generation ago that invaded it.

Authorities estimate Iraq needs $88.2 billion to restore a country smashed after the Sunni extremists seized the country's second-largest city of Mosul and a mass of territory in June 2014.

While the U.S. will not make any new direct aid pledges at the conference, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is expected to announce a more than $3 billion financial package, an American official said. Still, far more money will be needed, Iraqi officials say.

"We finished one battle but we are engaged now with a war for reconstruction," said Mustafa al-Hiti, the head of Iraq's reconstruction fund for areas affected by terrorist operations.

Mustafa al-Hiti, the head of the Iraq's reconstruc Mustafa al-Hiti, the head of the Iraq's reconstruction fund for areas affected by terroristic operations, speaks to The Associated Press in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Feb. 12, 2018. Mustafa al-Hiti, the head of the Iraq's reconstruction fund for areas affected by terroristic operations, speaks to The Associated Press in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Feb. 12, 2018.

Among the hardest-hit areas is Mosul, which Iraqi forces, aided by Iranian-backed Shiite militias and a U.S.-led coalition, recaptured in July 2017. Their victory came at a steep cost for Mosul, as coalition airstrikes and extremist suicide car bombs destroyed homes and government buildings.

Of the money needed, Iraqi officials estimate $17 billion alone needs to go toward rebuilding homes, the biggest single line item offered Monday on the first day of meetings. The United Nations estimates 40,000 homes need to be rebuilt in Mosul alone.

"The majority of the damage was to western Mosul as it went through one of the worst and fiercest battles in history," said Nofal al-Akoub, the governor of Iraq's Nineveh province. It "led to the total destruction of its infrastructure."

Al-Akoub said $42 billion was needed for his province alone, as it is home to Mosul. Iraq needs some $20 billion now to begin its reconstruction, al-Hiti said.

The war against the Islamic State group displaced more than 5 million people. Only half have returned to their hometowns in Iraq.

Hammadi Abdullah, 32, and his family sit outside t Hammadi Abdullah, 32, and his family sit outside their hut in an encampment outside Baghdad, Iraq, Feb. 12, 2018. Hammadi Abdullah, 32, and his family sit outside their hut in an encampment outside Baghdad, Iraq, Feb. 12, 2018.

However, officials acknowledge a feeling of fatigue from international donors, especially after the wars in Iraq and Syria sparked the biggest mass migration since World War II.

U.S. investments

President Donald Trump himself on Monday tweeted that America was "so stupidly spending $7 trillion in the Middle East, it is now time to start investing in OUR country."

Billions of dollars poured into Iraq after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein, with what feels now like little visible effect. While Iraq is OPEC's second-largest crude producer and home to the world's fifth-largest known reserves, it says it needs $7 billion to repair its oil and gas fields. It has struggled to pay international firms running them.

The U.S. alone spent $60 billion over nine years  some $15 million a day  to rebuild Iraq. Around $25 billion went to Iraq's military, which disintegrated during the lightning 2014 offensive of the Islamic State group, which grew out of al-Qaida in Iraq. U.S. government auditors also found massive waste and corruption, fueling suspicions of Western politicians like Trump who want to scale back foreign aid.

The over $3 billion package now planned for Iraq from the Americans will come from the Export-Import Bank of the United States, according to a U.S. official. The official said the package will be structured so that the initial amount could rise to as much as $5 billion over several years. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the package prior to its announcement.

A Kuwaiti official stands in front of an illuminat A Kuwaiti official stands in front of an illuminated sign for a conference on Iraq being held in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Feb. 12, 2018. A Kuwaiti official stands in front of an illuminated sign for a conference on Iraq being held in Kuwait City, Kuwait, Feb. 12, 2018.

That money would include loans, loan guarantees and insurance devices to encourage American investment in Iraq. It marks something of a turnaround for Trump, who railed against the government agency during his 2016 campaign.

Needs go beyond cash

Even in Kuwait, some social media users questioned the focus on Iraq, asking why more wasn't being done in their own country. The Middle East as a whole, especially countries like Kuwait whose deep pockets rely on oil production, have taken a hit in recent years as energy prices crashed and only recently began regaining ground.

Kuwait, hosting the conferences this week, has a deep interest in seeing a stable Iraq, especially after Baghdad's 1990 invasion of their small, oil-rich emirate. It announced $330 million alone had been pledged Monday for Iraq at a humanitarian conference in Kuwait City.

Umm Salem bakes bread in front of her hut at an en Umm Salem bakes bread in front of her hut at an encampment for the displaced outside Baghdad, Iraq, Feb. 12, 2018. Umm Salem bakes bread in front of her hut at an encampment for the displaced outside Baghdad, Iraq, Feb. 12, 2018.

That money is desperately needed as more than 4 million children are in need of humanitarian assistance while 3 million are unable to regularly go to school in Iraq, said Geert Cappelaere, UNICEF's regional director for the Middle East and North Africa. One out of four Iraqi children across the country live in poverty in the nation of 37 million people.

"There may be donor fatigue, but no one today can tell me there isn't money. There is money to continue fighting, there is money to continue agendas that are not serving children," Cappelaere said. "What we are asking today is to put that money where children's interests are and we may get in the Middle East a much-brighter future."

But Iraq needs more than just cash as thousands remain held after the rout of the Islamic State group, including women and children. It must renew its embrace of the rule of law, as well as provide answers to families whose loved ones went missing in the war, said Katharina Ritz, the head of the delegation in Iraq for the International Committee of the Red Cross.

"We know that many people think about, `OK, it's the second time we have to rebuild Iraq,' ... [but] we have to get it right this time for the Iraqi people," Ritz said.ROME - The United States wants detained foreign fighters being held by U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces to be turned over to face justice in their home countries. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis is expected to raise the issue during a meeting in Italy with other members of the coalition fighting IS in Iraq and Syria.



Mattis arrived in Rome for talks on the war against the Islamic State terrorist group and what to do with thousands of detainees being held by the Syrian Democratic Forces, the SDF. Hundreds are foreign fighters and Mattis is expected to tell Defense Ministers from the coalition fighting the IS they must take responsibility for the foreign fighters from their countries.



Foreign fighters will not be the only issue discussed at the Rome meeting with 13 of his coalition counterparts. He said the battle to eradicate IS is ongoing.



"There are numerous discussions about what's next," he said. "As we go forward, first mission: finish off IS' physical caliphate. That is still under way. The fight is not over against ISIS. It's not over. It goes on. There's been tough fighting in the last week with ISIS."



Speaking on the plane that carried Mattis to Rome, Kathryn Wheelbarger, the principal deputy assistant defense secretary for international security affairs said the key goal is to keep the fighters off the battlefield. She added that at one point the SDF was capturing as many as 40 militants a day.

A member of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forc FILE - A member of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces SDF throws a bomb to check for more explosives as they clear the syadium that was the site of Islamic State fighters' last stand in the city of Raqqa, Syria, Oct. 18, 2017. FILE - A member of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces SDF throws a bomb to check for more explosives as they clear the syadium that was the site of Islamic State fighters' last stand in the city of Raqqa, Syria, Oct. 18, 2017.

The issue of detained foreign fighters has become even more prominent after the SDF announced it had captured two notorious British members of an Islamic State cell known as The Beatles and known for beheading hostages.

Britain has so far refused to accept them and reports said they have been stripped of their British citizenship. Wheelbarger said the U.S. Justice Department is reviewing the cases. Another U.S. official said Guantanamo Bay is not being considered for The Beatles.



Mattis said one of the main issues to be discussed is the recovery effort in the areas that were occupied by ISIS. This will include ensuring that explosive devices are found and eliminated, getting schools re-opened, and making sure clean water is available to avoid disease outbreaks.



After the Rome meeting, the U.S. defense chief travels to Brussels. There, he will attend a defense ministerial meeting that he hopes will be an opportunity to strengthen the NATO alliance, which remains crucial in another ongoing conflict.



"It is engaged in fighting now, as you know, in Afghanistan," he noted. "Afghanistan will be a key part of the discussion there in Brussels."



Mattis's final two European stops will be in Germany  first, Stuttgart to visit with the United States' European and Africa commands based there. His last stop will be at the Munich Security Conference.REYHANLI, TURKEY - We are always afraid of being bombed, says 12-year-old Habib, perching on the edge of a park bench bearing the Turkish border towns name, Reyhanli. But our parents are even more scared.



His tone is joking, but his friends dont laugh. One rocket dropped next to my house two days ago, adds another 10-year-old boy. Like many of the other children playing in the town square, these boys are Syrians who fled airstrikes and Islamic State militants before traveling to Turkey last year.

Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish posi Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish positions in Afrin area, Syria, from Turkish side of the border in Hatay, Turkey, Feb. 9, 2018. Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish positions in Afrin area, Syria, from Turkish side of the border in Hatay, Turkey, Feb. 9, 2018.

The rockets crashing into their new neighborhood come from Afrin, Syria, where Turkish forces are battling Kurdish forces. And as Syria sees a new wave of international conflicts being fought within its borders, families fear they will never be free of the violence.



Our home was bombed in Syria when we were inside, says one boy, before resuming their game in the square.

Their parents havent been letting them play outside much since the Afrin battle began on January 20, but today is special. It is rumored high-level officials will visit the town, and the children say there may be a party.

Turkish authorities prepare to detonate an explosi Turkish authorities prepare to detonate an explosive that hit Rehyanli, Turkey on Jan. 31, 2018 and did not immediately explode. Turkish authorities prepare to detonate an explosive that hit Rehyanli, Turkey on Jan. 31, 2018 and did not immediately explode.

As soldiers climb back into tanks parked around the town square, it becomes apparent that if an official appearance had been planned, the event is no longer on the schedule. But the boys pose for pictures and tease each other anyway. They enjoy a moment of levity, which dissolves as they describe life under Islamic State militants, including one particular incident.

The IS soldiers told the guy to bring a knife, says Ahmed, who says he is 11 years old. His friend Zien insists Ahmed is 10, like himself. The man refused to bring the knife, but they got one anyway. I turned my face away when they started to cut off his head.



Old alliances, new dangers



In a village further from the Syrian border about 20 kilometers away, 31-year-old Hussein and his family wont go into town, where his father was killed by a rocket from Afrin in late January. Also Syrian, Husseins family fled to the relative safety of Turkey in 2013.

Hussien and family fled Syria in 2013 after 16 of Hussien and family fled Syria in 2013 after 16 of their neighbors were killed in a bomb strike. He shows a picture on his mobile phone of his injured father in Turkey five years later after a rocket strike. Pictured on Feb. 3, 2018 in a village near Reyhanli. Hussien and family fled Syria in 2013 after 16 of their neighbors were killed in a bomb strike. He shows a picture on his mobile phone of his injured father in Turkey five years later after a rocket strike. Pictured on Feb. 3, 2018 in a village near Reyhanli.

The children are still taking shrapnel out of their bodies, he says more than a week later, showing mobile phone video of his father, bleeding on the street to the sound of his mother wailing.



The war, he says, may have started as a conflict between the government and opposition fighters. Seven years later, it is a multi-faceted international disaster that is becoming more complex by the day and potentially more dangerous.

Mourners gather at a funeral for a Turkish soldier Mourners gather at a funeral for a Turkish soldier killed in the Afrin conflict. Soldiers and civilians on both sides have died. Pictured on Feb. 4, 2018. Mourners gather at a funeral for a Turkish soldier killed in the Afrin conflict. Soldiers and civilians on both sides have died. Pictured on Feb. 4, 2018.

The United States and Turkey are now at odds in Syria, and NATO officials are attempting to defuse tensions as the prospect of a fight between these allies in Syria looms.

Turkey is fighting a Kurdish militia known as the YPG, which is supported by the United States in the fight against Islamic State. Turkey views the YPG as being linked to the PKK, a militant organization that has been waging an insurgency in the southeastern part of that country. Tens of thousands of people have been killed in Turkey in decades of attacks. Turkey, the U.S. and European Union have designated the PKK a terrorist organization.

Fighters from the Kurdish People's Protection Uni FILE - Fighters from the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) monitor troop movements in the area of Afrin, along Syria's northern border with Turkey, on June 9, 2017. FILE - Fighters from the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) monitor troop movements in the area of Afrin, along Syria's northern border with Turkey, on June 9, 2017.

The U.S. acknowledges the PKK and YPG have links, but sees the YPG as separate, and as its most reliable ally against IS militants in Syria.



In the skies, Israel has re-entered the fight, shooting down an alleged Iranian drone flown in from Syria. The result has been mass airstrikes in Syria, and the downing of an Israeli fighter jet.

Israeli security forces walk next to the remains o Israeli security forces walk next to the remains of an F-16 Israeli warplane near the Israeli village of Harduf, Israel, Feb. 10, 2018. Israeli security forces walk next to the remains of an F-16 Israeli warplane near the Israeli village of Harduf, Israel, Feb. 10, 2018.

For Syrian people trying to survive, the violence has not abated. The United Nations says it expects 1.5 million more people to flee their homes in 2018. Currently, roughly six out of 10 Syrian people are displaced.



As Husseins son serves coffee on the carpeted floor, his cousin Mohammad, a 43-year-old farmer, says the war is mostly about world powers competing for their own interests, with the entire population of Syria serving as collateral damage.



Syrians are hiding 20 meters underground and they are still getting killed, says Mohammad. His family fled Syria in 2013 after a bomb hit their neighbors house, killing 16 people, including a baby.



They were all in the basement hiding, adds Hussein. But they were still killed.



Ethnic tensions, old and new



Despite the international elements of the war, there is still an ongoing battle among Syrians about who will control the country; but, new elements of the Syrian war are complicating this fight and potentially inflaming ethnic tensions in the region.



Turkey is fighting in Afrin alongside the Free Syrian Army, an opposition military, with Kurdish-led forces. The FSA and the YPG have faced off before, but now, the FSA and Turkey together are favored to win.

Free Syrian Army fighters are working with Turkey Free Syrian Army fighters are working with Turkey in their battle with Kurdish lead forces in Syria. Pictured on Feb. 1, 2018 just outside of the Afrin region in Syria. Free Syrian Army fighters are working with Turkey in their battle with Kurdish lead forces in Syria. Pictured on Feb. 1, 2018 just outside of the Afrin region in Syria.

No parties claim the fight is about ethnicity, but the division does fall largely along ethnic lines, with Turks and Arabs fighting Kurds. In other parts of the region, ethnic tensions have already deepened after Iraqi Kurds called for an independence vote in October, sparking violence and the Kurds loss of much of the land they were controlling in Iraq.



FSA soldiers say they are fighting for the Kurdish people, to free them from an oppressive militant group, but, demonstrators in Afrin and around the world have called for a halt to the operations they say are killing civilians.



Regardless of the motives, the fact is now Syrian Arabs are fighting Syrian Kurds over issues that Turkey considers essential to its security.



Before we were all brothers, says Hussien. We used to marry each other. But now, I dont know.JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN - Opposition groups attending a forum Monday in Addis Ababa walked out of the talks aimed at revitalizing a 2015 peace deal between South Sudan's government and rebel forces.

A coalition of nine groups held a news conference in the Ethiopian capital to accuse South Sudan's government of not taking seriously the high-level revitalization forum, or HLRF, and violating the latest cease-fire  the Cessation of Hostilities agreement  that was signed in December. A South Sudan army spokesperson dismissed the accusations, saying it is the rebels who are attacking government positions across the country.

Kwaje Lasu, who represents the nine opposition groups in Addis, said the coalition refused to enter the negotiating room Monday after South Sudan officials refused to sign a declaration of principles late last week.

"The government of South Sudan has demonstrated a lack of seriousness and political will to negotiate in good faith. This is demonstrated by its refusal to sign the declaration of principles that was jointly discussed and signed by all other parties to the revitalization process," Lasu said.

He said government forces have repeatedly attacked rebel positions in several areas since signing the cease-fire.

"The government continues its attack on opposition positions throughout the country, the latest of which is Nyatot in the Nasir area today. South Sudan, as an IGAD member, should recuse itself from the mediation in South Sudan's conflict," said Lasu. IGAD, or Intergovernmental Authority on Development, is a regional trade bloc that organized the forum.

Lasu said the coalition is demanding that the government reverse its position on several issues before the grouping returns to the bargaining table.

"The opposition group demands that the government of South Sudan sign the declaration of principles that is the basis of negotiation. Government forces must immediately withdraw from all positions they captured in violation of the Cessation of Hostilities agreement, Article 3, Sub-article 2," Lasu added.

Accusations against rebels

Brig. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang is a spokesperson for South Sudan's army, the SPLA. He called a separate news conference Monday in Juba to accuse rebels loyal to Riek Machar and opposition leader Lam Akol of looting and attacking government positions in the states of Lol and Kapoeta and in the town of Nasir in Latjor state.

FILE - South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar speaks FILE - South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar speaks in an interview with The Associated Press in Johannesburg, on Oct. 20, 2016. FILE - South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar speaks in an interview with The Associated Press in Johannesburg, on Oct. 20, 2016.

"The renewed offensive attacks against SPLA positions in different parts of the country constitute a serious violation of the Cessation of Hostilities agreement. Looting of schools and civilian properties is a serious human rights violation and also constitutes a war crime," Koang said.

Koang said even though government troops continue to come under attack by rebels, government forces will respect the Cessation of Hostilities agreement.

"SPLA renewed its commitment to the observation of the Cessation of Hostilities agreement, but will fight to contain agents of destruction from inflicting more harm on innocent civilians and wanton looting of their properties," Koang said.

Koang urged cease-fire monitors to investigate the latest violations and hold the perpetrators accountable.

Multiple violations

Both government and opposition forces have committed multiple violations since the cease-fire began on Dec. 24, according to four separate investigations by the Cease-fire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring Mechanism, or CTSAMM, an independent body.

South Sudan in Focus placed several calls to CTSAMM, but the calls went unanswered.

It is not immediately clear when the nine opposition groups will return to the bargaining table in the second round of the HLRF in Addis. The talks were scheduled to run through the end of this week.

South Sudan's conflict began in 2013 as a power struggle between President Salva Kiir and Machar, who was Kiir's deputy. The war has driven 2 million people from the country and left more than a million others a step away from famine, according to the United Nations.ISLAMABAD - The outlawed Pakistani Taliban confirmed Monday its deputy chief was among several militants killed in a recent U.S. drone strike near Pakistans volatile border with Afghanistan.

In announcing the death of Khan Said Sajna, the spokesman for the so-called Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, TTP, said the pre-dawn drone attack occurred on February 8 in the Gorwek area of North Waziristan.

While American officials rarely comment on Pakistan-specific anti-terrorism drone operations, tribal sources and local intelligence officials at the time had confirmed Sajna and his fighters were returning home from the adjacent Afghan province of Khost when missiles fired from an unmanned aircraft hit their vehicle.

The slain commander was believed to be sheltering in Khost and had ties to the Haqqani network accused of staging high-profile terrorist attacks against local and U.S.-led forces in Afghanistan. His elimination, analysts say, is a major blow to the TPP.

Sajna was wanted by Washington for his role in terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens. Pakistani authorities also wanted him for planning major terrorist attacks in the country and orchestrating a 2012 jailbreak in the northwestern town of Bannu that freed around 400 inmates, including high-profile militants.

FILE - Pakistan security officials surround a cent FILE - Pakistan army soldiers and other security officials surround a central jail in Bannu, 170 kilometers south of Peshawar, Pakistan. Taliban militants battled their way into this prison in 2012, freeing close to 400 prisoners. FILE - Pakistan army soldiers and other security officials surround a central jail in Bannu, 170 kilometers south of Peshawar, Pakistan. Taliban militants battled their way into this prison in 2012, freeing close to 400 prisoners.

Sajna was also heading the Mehsud branch of the Pakistani Taliban. Mufti Wali Noor has now been appointed as his successor, said Monday's TTP announcement.

The militant group has taken responsibility for numerous suicide bombings and other terrorist acts over the past decade in which tens of thousands of Pakistanis, including security forces, have lost their lives.

North Waziristan, Pakistan



North Waziristan and other federally administered tribal areas around it have long hosted militant bases blamed for attacks on both sides of the porous border between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

However, Pakistani military officials say major ground and air offensives launched in 2014 have mostly cleared the tribal belt and construction of a robust fence on the Pakistani side of the frontier is currently under way to deter illegal cross border movements.

FILE - A view of the border fence outside the Kitt FILE - A view of the border fence outside the Kitton outpost on the border with Afghanistan in North Waziristan, Pakistan, Oct. 18, 2017. FILE - A view of the border fence outside the Kitton outpost on the border with Afghanistan in North Waziristan, Pakistan, Oct. 18, 2017.

Islamabad maintains TTP leaders and militants who escaped the army offensive have taken shelter in volatile Afghan border areas and plot terrorist attacks against Pakistan from there.

Both the countries routinely accuse each other of supporting militant attacks against their respective soils, fueling tension.The Pacific island of Tonga has declared a state of emergency as it prepares for Cyclone Gita.

Some people on the island are boarding their windows while others are evacuating as they brace for the cyclone that is due to hit Monday night.

Weather experts are warning residents of soaking rains and winds that can exceed 200 kilometers per hour. The storm is expected to become a Category Five storm, the strongest ranking, before reaching Tonga.

Authorities are already warning people to seek strong shelter and pick up anything they find on the ground that could become a deadly missile when the winds blow.

The storm has strengthened since hitting Samoa and American Samoa last week, where it damaged buildings and caused widespread power outages and flooding, leaving the residents without clean water in some areas.

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared a state of emergency on the territory of American Samoa. The declaration allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide equipment and resources.

Tonga is home to about 105,000 people.

Schools and workplaces in Tonga were closed ahead of the storm.Russian teams of emergency workers and investigators searched a snow-covered field outside Moscow Monday, looking for body fragments and clues after a plane crashed a day earlier, killing all 71 people on board, including the crew and three children.

The 65 passengers on board were from 5 to 79-years-old, according to a list posted by the Russian Emergencies Ministry, which did not give their nationalities.

More than 400 people and 70 vehicles were deployed to the crash site, the ministry said.

WATCH: Crash

?President Vladimir Putin ordered a special commission to investigate what caused the Antonov AN-148 plane to go down shortly after taking off.

Human error, technical failure and weather conditions are among the several possible cause, according to Russias Investigative Committee, which did not mention the possibility of terrorism.

The regional jet, operated by Saratov Airlines, was traveling from Domodedovo airport, to the city of Orsk in the Orenburg region when it crashed near Argunovo, about 80 kilometers southeast of Moscow.

The seven-year-old plane disappeared from the radar just minutes after departing from the capital city's second busiest airport and was falling up to 6,700 meters per minute in the last seconds of the crash, flight-tracking site FlightRadar24 reported.

Flight #6W703 took off from Moscow at 11:22 UTC time and 5 minutes later we tracked it descenting with 3300 feet per minute before the signal was lost. pic.twitter.com/6Bt5rCiKlm  Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) February 11, 2018

Russian media reported that search crews had found one flight recorder but it is not clear if it is the data or voice recorder.

Putin offered "his profound condolences to those who lost their relatives in the crash," according to his spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

U.S. President Donald Trump joined world leaders in offering condolences to Putin and the Russian people. "The United States is deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of those on board Saratov Airlines Flight 703. We send our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Russia," a statement released by the White House said.

President Donald Trump speaks to reporters in the President Donald Trump speaks to reporters in the Oval Office of the White House, Feb. 9, 2018, in Washington. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters in the Oval Office of the White House, Feb. 9, 2018, in Washington.

The Domodedovo airport has been the focus of security concerns in the past. It came under sharp criticism in 2004, after Chechen suicide bombers destroyed two airliners that took off from the airport on the same evening, killing a total of 90 people. A 2011 bombing in the arrivals area killed 37 people.

Shabby equipment and poor supervision plagued Russian civil aviation for years after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, but the safety record has improved in recent years.THANE, INDIA - There are an estimated one million street children in India and about 46 of them are going to school in a shipping container located under a major underpass in a town bordering Mumbai in India.

Since children on the street won't go to regular school, authorities brought the classroom to where they spend much of the day  on the streets.

Students don their uniforms as soon as they arrive for class in the remodeled shipping container under a busy traffic intersection in Thane.

The school tries to adapt to the lifestyle of its The school tries to adapt to the lifestyle of its homeless students, opening in late morning and teaching students about hygiene. The school tries to adapt to the lifestyle of its homeless students, opening in late morning and teaching students about hygiene.

The children of homeless parents, the students had never attended school until they came here, according to Batu Sawant, who heads the voluntary group Samarth Bharat Vyaspith, which runs the Signal School along with civic authorities.

People who live on the streets will not dress up their children and send them to school or pick them up in the afternoon," Sawant says. "So it was necessary to bring the school to them.

The Signal School is in a shipping container under The Signal School is in a shipping container under a major overpass near Mumbai, India. The Signal School is in a shipping container under a major overpass near Mumbai, India.

Since the school began a year and a half ago, enrollment is up from 22 to 46. The students used to sell trinkets at traffic signals or beg on the streets, but now they spend the day catching up on their education.

Teacher Shradha Dandavate says it was a challenge to make children who grew up coping with the rough-and-tumble of street life to trade habits like fighting and cursing for learning to write and read.

They are not accustomed to school," she says. "They get bored and desperate to resume their earlier lives. But slowly through stories, songs, playing, we got them used to spending the day in school.

Students put on their uniforms once they arrive at Students put on their uniforms once they arrive at school in the morning. Students put on their uniforms once they arrive at school in the morning.

The school has adapted to the lifestyle of the homeless, opening at 10 a.m. because children go to sleep late after the incessant traffic noise dies down. It provides lockers to store books and uniforms that are not safe on the street. The students are given nutritious supplements and lessons in hygiene and grooming.

But the transformation goes beyond appearances.

It ended begging," Sawant says. "That helped change their mindset that you get things free by just asking. Education has taught them that you can work hard and have a good career.

Students at the Signal School are from homeless fa Students at the Signal School are from homeless families and were begging or selling trinkets on the street before enrolling in school. Students at the Signal School are from homeless families and were begging or selling trinkets on the street before enrolling in school.

Although a latecomer to school, the oldest student, 19-year-old Mohan Kale, is confident of cracking the Grade X examination this year.

What to do in the world, how life should be lived, I have learned everything in school, that is why I like it here, Kale says.

Ambitions and dreams are being kindled at the school.

I will study very well and become an important man, says student Kiran Chandrakant Kale.

The Signal School is a small initiative aimed at ushering in change one step at a time. Sawant has asked authorities for two more containers and a bus to ferry in children from other traffic intersections to join the school.Armed with smartphones, thousands of smallholder farmers across Latin America are set to benefit from a technology boost that will help them deal better with the effects of climate change.



A three-year agreement will see farmers receive vital information such as weather forecasts and early warnings via their smartphones, as well as online training and equipment to help improve water usage.



"There are 70 countries in the world today that have no access to weather information," said Jose Graziano da Silva, director general of the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).



He was speaking after signing the agreement on Monday with Spain's Telefonica SA, one of the world's largest telecommunications companies.



"They don't know if it's going to rain other than by looking out of the window," he said, adding that the deal would help to reduce the divide between rural and urban areas on access to information and new technology.



"We believe that there is an urgent need to use the data and information available globally and translate it into useful and accessible information locally, useful to small-scale producers," he said.



A pilot project will help farmers in El Salvador and Colombia maximize their water resources. It is similar to an existing project of Telefonica's in Chile, which has struggled with a multi-year drought.



The project in Chile covers 17,000 hectares and 10 crops in four regions, and uses specialized equipment whose sensors measure humidity and solar activity, among others, and send data via a low-cost wireless network.



FAO said the project would be replicated in areas of Central America's "Dry Corridor" which runs through Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua.



Home to about 10.5 million people, experts say it is vulnerable to extreme weather exacerbated by climate change.



Once the data is processed, farmers get recommendations specific to their crops on their smartphones, leading to a 20 percent reduction in water usage, said Vicente Munoz, Telefonica's chief officer on the Internet of Things (IoT).



"So we have the experience, the knowledge, and the distribution for this collaboration with FAO," Munoz told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.



IoT refers to devices such as mobile phones, computers, cars and refrigerators that are connected to the internet.



Many of the world's 460-500 million smallholder farmers have limited resources in terms of labour, education, training and finance, experts say. In areas such as Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, they produce up to 80 percent of the food consumed.JOHANNESBURG - South Africa's tense political crisis reached a peak Monday as leaders of the ruling African National Congress met to demand President Jacob Zuma's resignation. But after more than a week of unsuccessful negotiations, the opposition vowed that is not the end of the nation's political turmoil and called for early elections to replace Zuma.



The coalition of opposition parties said they are seeking to move up a planned no-confidence vote in parliament, the ninth such vote Zuma has faced. Previous votes have failed because Zuma enjoyed the support of the ruling party, which he has now lost.



An opposition coalition led by the Democratic Alliance and the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters says it will demand parliament be dissolved and early elections held once Zuma is out.



Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema says the opposition is not content to allow Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa to hold Zuma's seat until elections in mid-2019.



"They want Zuma to go because it is the time for Cyril's group to eat," he said. "And they call it a transition.Transition from what? It can not be a transition, it is not a transition. That is an abuse of concepts. It is factions changing, swapping seats. ... It's a swappie, from one corrupt failure to another corrupt failure."

President Jacob Zuma leaves Tuynhuys, the office o President Jacob Zuma leaves Tuynhuys, the office of the Presidency at Parliament in Cape Town, South Africa, Feb. 7, 2018. President Jacob Zuma leaves Tuynhuys, the office of the Presidency at Parliament in Cape Town, South Africa, Feb. 7, 2018.

The opposition and many South Africans have been calling for Zuma to step down for years as he sank deeper into growing, widening corruption scandals, protected by the ANC's comfortable majority in parliament.



But since the ANC replaced Zuma as party head in December, Ramaphosa, his successor as party leader, has been working to push him out of the presidency as well. This past week, top ANC members met privately with Zuma to try to convince him to resign.



Ramaphosa said Sunday the ANC knew South Africans were losing patience.



"The successful resolution of this matter has great, significant consequences for the country and for the African National Congress," he said. "... We know you want closure on this matter. Comrades, as you do want closure, we will be doing so, keeping our eyes on what is in the interests of all of our people and how we continue to unite the nation."



But Ramaphosa's new job will not be easy, especially if the opposition makes headway in its quest to push him out, says analyst Daniel Silke.



"But I think Ramaphosa is a wily character, someone who has the ear of both domestic and foreign business interests in South Africa," he said. "And there is a large body of South Africans, ordinary South Africans, who are desperate for political change and will give him the benefit of the doubt, even if he has to compromise on some of these challenges he will face."



And, Zuma is unlikely to enjoy an easy retirement. He could face numerous corruption investigations, including a pending case that includes 783 charges of corruption.JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN - The South Sudan government is cracking down on black market money changers to try to prevent the South Sudanese pound from falling any further against the U.S. dollar.

A combined force of police officers, military and national security service operatives were seen moving through several Juba markets in the past week.

One money changer, who prefers to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said the crackdown will deny him his only source of revenue.

I got people deployed at our shops, so we have to take off. We dont know what is going to happen, but it has stopped our business, he told South Sudan in Focus.

The illegal money changer said he has no other livelihood.

This business is the way of survival these days. You buy and sell and get a small profit for supporting the family, he said.

Bank releases more US dollars

Last week, the Central Bank of South Sudan said it would inject more U.S. dollars into the economy to prevent further devaluation of the pound. The U.S. dollar now exchanges for 250 South Sudanese pounds, up from 215 South Sudanese pounds a week ago on the black market.

Despite the crackdown, traders and buyers continued to haggle over prices for vegetables, fruits and other basic commodities in Juba markets.

Some traders say they are not concerned about the crackdown, which includes arresting money changers, but desperately want to see a reduction in skyrocketing commodity prices.

FILE - A man from South Sudan displays currency no A man from South Sudan displays new currency notes outside the Central Bank of South Sudan in Juba, July 18, 2011. A man from South Sudan displays new currency notes outside the Central Bank of South Sudan in Juba, July 18, 2011.

Value of pound drops

Janet Kiden, who sells artificial hair and clothes in Jubas customs market, said the drop in value of the South Sudanese pound against the U.S. dollar is what has caused repeated price hikes.

I want it to drop down because I have no husband and no one to help us. You need to buy food, Kiden told South Sudan in Focus.

Jubas deputy mayor Samir Khamis Suleiman said officials agreed to carry out the crackdown in a joint meeting between the military, police, national security agents, the finance ministry and Juba City officials.

On Wednesday, they said they dont want this issue of buying dollars, he told South Sudan in Focus.

Violators will be arrested

South Sudan national police spokesman Brig. Gen. Daniel Justine acknowledged there have been previous crackdowns, but the black market dealing continued. This time around, he said, violators will be arrested.

We have been doing this from time to time, but this time we have changed our way of handling it in terms of deploying forces in those areas, especially in Juba town and the custom markets. So all violators will face the law, Justine told South Sudan in Focus.

Justine advised black market money changers to get a license so they can legally continue in the business of exchanging currency.CAIRO - U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson began a five-nation visit to the Middle East in Egypt, where he called for next month's presidential elections to be transparent and credible. His talks Monday with his counterpart Sameh Shoukri touched on topics including economic and military cooperation, and the fight against terrorism.

In a joint news conference at the old foreign ministry compound, Tillerson and Egyptian Foreign Minister Shoukri highlighted bilateral issues, including the fight against terrorism, and U.S. concerns about Egypt's presidential elections. Both men stressed that they had agreed not to interfere in each other's internal affairs.



Tillerson noted that discussions included "the promotion and protection of human rights and the vital role of civil society in Egypt" and the upcoming Egyptian presidential election in March, in which incumbent President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi is running largely unopposed.



"The United States, as it does in all countries, supports a transparent and credible electoral process and all citizens being given the right and the opportunity to participate freely and fairly," said Tillerson.

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson (L) meets Eg U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson (L) meets Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry (R) and their delegations, in Cairo, Egypt, Feb. 12, 2018. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson (L) meets Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry (R) and their delegations, in Cairo, Egypt, Feb. 12, 2018.

When asked about alleged political oppression in Egypt, Shoukri responded that "development in the social and political field is an evolutionary process."

"The Egyptian people have shown their commitment and their determination and their ability to change their course and to indicate their dissatisfaction if they deemed they were dissatisfied," he added. "They have been able to change two governments in the last seven years and they have undertaken legislative elections and know how to protect their rights and advocate."

Terrorism



Tillerson stressed that both the U.S. and Egypt are determined to jointly pursue the fight against terrorism. He noted that Egypt is a key member of the U.S.-led coalition against the so-called Islamic State group:



"We agreed that we would continue our close cooperation on counter-terrorism measures, including our joint commitment to the defeat of ISIS, and Egypt has been a very important member of the defeat-ISIS coalition from the beginning," he said. 'Egypt deals with the threats of ISIS themselves and are dealing with it currently in the Sinai."



Egypt began a country-wide anti-terrorism operation, dubbed Sinai 2018, on Friday. It has been launching air strikes against terrorist targets, including arms caches, and attempting to disrupt arms supply routes from Libya and Gaza.

Jerusalem



In response to an Arab journalist's question about U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Israel, Tillerson insisted that the U.S. remained committed the peace process and that several key points of the president's decision were being misinterpreted.



"In the announcement President Trump made regarding Jerusalem, he also made two very important points, as well, one of which was, he was not advocating for any change to the status quo as to the oversight of the holy sites, recognizing the proper role of existing authorities," he said "And the second is that the final boundaries of Jerusalem are yet to be determined and will be decided among the parties."

North Korea



When asked about Egypt's relations with North Korea, Shoukri pointed out that many U.S. allies also have diplomatic ties with Pyongyang, but stressed that economic and other ties were minimal.



"Egypt has had normal diplomatic ties with North Korea, as do many Western and NATO members," he said. "And those ties are, in terms of the relationship, limited to representation and there is almost no existing economic or other areas of cooperation."



Secretary Tillerson added that the U.S. is still evaluating eventual diplomatic negotiations with North Korea. But he pointed out that it's "up to Pyongyang to decide when they're ready to engage with [the US] in a sincere and meaningful way [since] they know what has to be on the table for discussions."



Tillerson met with el-Sissi at the al Ittihadiya Presidential palace before heading to the airport and continuing his tour, with stops in Kuwait, Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey.U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Monday any possible negotiations with North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs can only happen if North Korea shows it is ready to engage in meaningful talks.

"I think its too early to judge," Tillerson said during a visit to Egypt. "As weve said for some time, its really up to the North Koreans to decide when theyre ready to engage with us in a sincere way, a meaningful way. They know what has to be on the table for conversations."

Tillerson spoke at a joint news conference with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry after the two diplomats discussed regional security issues such as Libya and Syria, as well as the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

Tillerson said the Egyptian people should be confident in the continuing U.S. commitment to supporting Egypt in fighting terrorism.

"Our joint commitment to defeat ISIS is steadfast and there has been no gap between Egypt and the United States in our joint efforts to confront terrorists and extremism in the region, but most specifically here in Egypt as well," he said, using an acronym for the Islamic State group.

Tillerson is due to meet with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi on the first stop of his five-country Middle East trip. He is also visiting Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon, and Kuwait.

Sissi is widely expected to win re-election next month after most candidates believed to represent a serious challenge have dropped out of the race, including several who were arrested or faced pressure to withdraw.

When asked questions about how fair the vote will be, Tillerson said the United States has always supported free and fair elections in any country, including Egypt.

"So the U.S. is always going to advocate for an electoral process that respects the rights of its citizens to make the choices the citizens want to make and the full participation of citizens in those elections," he said.

This undated image released Jan. 24, 2018 on the o This undated image released Jan. 24, 2018 on the official Facebook account of Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, shows workers carrying boxes that bear the presidents image and the phrase long live Egypt! in Cairo, Egypt. This undated image released Jan. 24, 2018 on the official Facebook account of Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, shows workers carrying boxes that bear the presidents image and the phrase long live Egypt! in Cairo, Egypt.

Shoukry said certain human rights groups that criticized the electoral climate in Egypt lacked information and "direct association" with Egyptian society.

"It is the Egyptian people who should determine how they are applying their freedoms and their political activism," Shoukry said.

Turkey



In Ankara, Tillerson will press Turkey to release Americans detained by Ankara, and urge the NATO ally to show restraint in military operations in northern Syria, according to senior U.S. officials.

"At times like this, engagement is all the more important," said a State Department official Friday, while acknowledging, "It's going to be a difficult conversation."

The top U.S. diplomat's visit to Ankara comes amid escalated tensions over a series of disagreements, including human rights cases and the Syria crisis.



"Look, it's difficult. The rhetoric is hot, the Turks are angry and this is a difficult time to do business, but it's our belief that there are still some very fundamental underlying shared interests," the senior official said Friday.

The State Department says U.S. citizen Serkan Golge, a NASA scientist who was arrested in July 2016, was convicted "without credible evidence" on February 8 by Turkish authorities for being a member of a terror organization.

Human rights activists stage a protest demanding t FILE - Human rights activists stage a protest demanding the release of Amnesty International's Taner Kilic, outside a court in Istanbul, Turkey, Jan. 31, 2018. FILE - Human rights activists stage a protest demanding the release of Amnesty International's Taner Kilic, outside a court in Istanbul, Turkey, Jan. 31, 2018.

On February 1, Amnesty International's Turkey chairman, Taner Kilic, was re-arrested and placed back in pretrial detention. Kilic is facing terrorism charges.

The State Department said it is deeply troubled by those cases and urged the Turkish government to "end the protracted state of emergency, to release those detained arbitrarily under emergency authorities, and to safeguard the rule of law consistent with Turkey's own domestic and international obligations and commitments."

In the year after a failed coup in July 2016, Turkey arrested more than 50,000 people and fired 150,000, including many from the police, army and judiciary.



Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Fethullah Gulen, an exiled cleric based in the United States, of orchestrating the attempted coup. Gulen has denied any role in the plot. Ankara has also asked Washington to extradite Gulen.



The lack of trust between Washington and Ankara grew after Turkey started an air and ground offensive in Afrin, Syria, against a Kurdish group known as the People's Protection Units, or YPG. Turkey considers the YPG to be a terrorist organization, alleging it is an extension of a Kurdish group fighting for autonomy in Turkey for decades.

Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish posi Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish positions in Afrin area, Syria, from Turkish side of the border in Hatay, Turkey, Feb. 9, 2018. Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish positions in Afrin area, Syria, from Turkish side of the border in Hatay, Turkey, Feb. 9, 2018.

The United States denies those connections and sees the YPG as a key ally in the battle against Islamic State militants.

"We are urging them [Turkish authorities] to show restraint in their operations in Afrin, and to show restraint further along the line across the border in northern Syria," said a senior State Department official.



"We can work with them to address their legitimate security concerns while, at the same time, minimizing civilian casualties and above all else, keeping everything focused on the defeat ISIS fight, which is not over," he added, using the acronym of the Islamic State militants.

Other stops on schedule



In Amman, Tillerson will meet with the Jordanian leadership on the conclusion of a new memorandum of understanding on bilateral assistance, and discuss key regional issues, such as the ongoing crisis in Syria and Jordan's support for Middle East peace.

In Beirut, he will meet with Lebanese President Michel Aoun, Prime Minister Saad Hariri, and Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri to emphasize U.S. support for the Lebanese people and the Lebanese armed forces.

The chief U.S. diplomat will also lead a delegation to the ministerial meeting in Kuwait of the 74-member Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. He will also participate in the Iraq Reconstruction Conference, which is the first since Islamic State was defeated in Raqqa, Syria and Iraq declared some of its own territory liberated.

The three-day Iraq Reconstruction Conference will showcase private sector investment opportunities and international support for Iraq.U.S. police say Donald Trump, Jr.s wife, Vanessa Trump, was taken to the hospital after opening a letter containing an unidentified white powder.

Initial tests indicate the substance was not dangerous.

Officials say the daughter-in-law of President Donald Trump opened the letter, which was addressed to Donald Trump, Jr., early Monday at their New York City apartment.

Police say she felt ill after opening the letter and called 911, adding she was coughing and felt nauseous.

Officials say a de-contamination unit went to the midtown Manhattan apartment.

U.S. authorities have been on alert for mail containing white powder since 2001, when letters laced with anthrax were sent to U.S. lawmakers and media outlets.ISTANBUL - Turkey is calling on the Unites States to take concrete steps to address its concerns about American support for a Kurdish militia in Syria or face a breakdown in relations. The stepped up pressure comes ahead of U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's visit to Turkey next week.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusolgu issued the ultimatum as he spoke on the sidelines of a Turkish-African meeting Monday in Istanbul. He said Turkey's ties with the United States are at what he called a very critical point and the countries will either fix them or they will break completely.

He said Turkey does not want promises. It wants concrete steps in order for trust to be restored. He blamed the United States for that missing trust.



The two NATO allies have been at odds over Washington's support of the Syrian Kurdish militia, the YPG, in its war against Islamic State militants. Ankara considers the YPG terrorists linked to a longtime Kurdish insurgency in Turkey.

Syria operation

Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish posi Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish positions in Afrin area, Syria, from Turkish side of the border in Hatay, Turkey, Feb. 9, 2018. Turkish artillery fires toward Syrian Kurdish positions in Afrin area, Syria, from Turkish side of the border in Hatay, Turkey, Feb. 9, 2018.

Last month, Turkish forces entered the Kurdish militia-controlled Syrian Afrin enclave despite repeated calls by Washington for Ankara not to intervene. But Turkey has threatened to expand its operation to the Syrian town of Manbij where U.S. forces are deployed with the YPG.

Washington has criticized Ankara, claiming its ongoing Syrian operation is undermining the war against the Islamic State. But Cavusoglu also questioned the U.S commitment to fight the Islamic State, claiming it is not attacking Islamic State members in Syria as an excuse to continue working with the YPG terrorist group.



U.S. officials had no immediate response to the top Turkish diplomat's allegation.



Sunday, U.S. National Security Advisor M. H. McMaster met in Istanbul with Turkish presidential foreign affairs advisor Ibrahim Kalin. Following the meeting, a joint statement was issued in which both sides committed themselves to a long-term strategic relationship.



But analysts point out there was no mention of addressing ongoing differences between the countries.



Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is expected to have a list of U.S. concerns for his Turkish counterpart when he visits Turkey later this week as part of a tour of the wider region.A TWO percent positive economic growth is expected for the Caribbean region in 2018, with the Turks and Caicos Islands predicted to experience very strong economic progress this year.





This is according to Dr Justin Ram, director of economics at the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), who was speaking during livestream of the banks annual news conference with regional media operatives on Wednesday (February 7) in Barbados.





However, Dr Ram contends that governments need to implement resilience-building measures to ensure this projected growth becomes reality.





The projection follows a return to positive figures last year, during which Turks and Caicos Islands along with many other Caribbean countries experienced overall growth of 0.6 percent despite the devastation caused by the Atlantic Hurricane Season.





Dr Ram stated that all of CDBs borrowing member countries (BMCs), of which the Turks and Caicos Islands is one, are expected to contribute to the positive movement.





"This is mainly driven by the return to growth in Trinidad and Tobago and a 2.3 percent uptick in Jamaica, which accounts for about a fifth of regional gross domestic product (GDP).





"The highest growth rates are anticipated for Anguilla and Dominica as they rebuild from the damage caused by the 2017 hurricanes.





"Antigua and Barbuda and the Turks and Caicos Islands are also expected to have strong growth.





He noted, however, that although a return to growth is encouraging, the Caribbean still lags behind other small developing states.





In the region, growth has averaged 0.8 percent since 2009, compared to an average of 4.8 percent in other country groups.





The director of economics said that in order for Caribbean countries to ensure sustainable, inclusive growth and development, measures to improve resilience are needed.





During his presentation to media, Dr Ram recommended a framework that could help countries build resilience.





He said this is built on four pillars: macroeconomic resilience; productivity and competitiveness; human development; and environmental resilience.





"Any blueprint for building resilience in the Caribbean must take into account all of the key elements identified in the four pillars.





"In addition, we must ensure that we consider regional integration and gender equality - cross-cutting themes that support and reinforce the four elements.





"It is important that we build resilience in all four areas, which are interconnected, the director said.





With respect to specific policy actions, Dr Ram noted that at the macroeconomic level, fiscal rules that encourage governments to save should be implemented, and debt-to-GDP limits should

be introduced.





The director also recommended that countries adopt reforms that make it easier to do business, thus setting the environment for private-sector-led growth.





Resilience at the environmental level will mean stricter compliance with stricter building codes, and the development of indemnity insurance markets, he said.





"We believe that all of this can be strengthened if there is greater gender equality particularly within the labour market.





"Regional cooperation will also reinforce this for example, free movement of labour and capital which could assist with overcoming diseconomies of scale associated with small size, Dr Ram added.





The Caribbean Development Bank is a regional financial institution established in 1970 for the purpose of contributing to the harmonious economic growth and development of its borrowing member countries.



MALE - A U.N. rights group said on Monday the detention of two Supreme Court judges in the tiny Indian Ocean archipelago of the Maldives was an attack on the independence of the judiciary and undermined the rule of law.

Regional power India has joined Britain, the United States and the United Nations in calling for the lifting of last week's state of emergency and the freeing of the two judges.

The Muslim-majority Maldives, best known for its luxury beach resorts, has been in crisis since the Supreme Court quashed convictions ranging from corruption to terrorism of nine opposition figures, and ordered the government to release them.



President Abdulla Yameen defied the ruling and the judges were arrested. He said he ordered the state of emergency and put down a coup.



"This direct attack on the Supreme Court undermines its legitimacy and independence, and casts serious doubt on its ability to protect constitutional principles and to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms," the U.N. group said in a statement. "It is clear that the rule of law in the Maldives is now under siege. We call on the government to refrain from any threats or interference that may hamper the court's independence as the supreme guardian of the country's constitution and legislation."



Police have also arrested former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, 80, for his alleged role in soliciting bribes to overthrow the government.



A lawyer for Gayoom said that if police had evidence, there was no reason for a state of emergency.



"President Gayoom has not even been questioned yet. If this is such a huge investigation and Gayoom is a dangerous person of interest, why have they not questioned him in over 140 hours?"



Opposition legislators in the past have complained of authorities targeting them with false allegations. Yameen has denied the accusations.



Most of the opposition leaders likely to challenge Yameen in a presidential poll later this year are facing jail sentences.



Some have urged India to intervene.



The tumult comes during the peak tourism season in Maldives, which earned $2.7 billion in 2016 from holidaymakers visiting luxury hotels and scuba diving resorts scattered round the myriad tiny tropical islands and coral atolls.



"An immediate effect of political developments will be on tourist arrivals," Moody's rating agency said in a statement.



Some countries, notably India, China, Singapore and Britain, had already issued travel advisories recommending avoiding all but essential travel to the Maldives, it said.



"The U.S. since January has had Maldives on a Level 2 travel advisory, which recommends that tourists exercise caution owing to terrorism risks."The head of the U.N. refugee agency on Monday appealed to the United States and other nations to take in more displaced people, speaking from a camp for Syrian refugees in Jordan, one of the main host countries.



Filippo Grandi also said that the number of Syrians being deported from Jordan to their war-ravaged homeland "decreased dramatically" in recent months, in part because of his agency's appeal for more careful reviews of cases.



Jordan is believed to have deported several thousand refugees since last year, mostly on security grounds. Rights groups have said deportations often take place quickly, without a thorough investigation.



Only about 15,000 Syrian refugees, out of close to 660,000 registered in Jordan, have opted to leave the kingdom for Syria since 2016, Grandi said during a tour of the Zaatari refugee camp.



"So it's a very small number. Why? Because people don't feel secure," he said. "And when you see the war becoming more and more complicated, with more and more actors involved, then you get more worried."



Millions of Syrians have been uprooted since conflict erupted in the country in 2011. Some 5.5 million Syrians have fled their homeland, most finding refuge in nearby host countries. Several hundreds of thousands moved on to Europe, with the help of smugglers taking them across perilous sea routes, while only a small portion have been able to move to the West through resettlement programs.



The United States, which traditionally took in the largest number of refugees, has scaled back its resettlement program under the Trump administration.



Grandi said the United Nations will likely be able to resettle only about 10,000 refugees from Jordan to third countries this year, compared to 25,000 to 30,000 per year in the past.

"Now my appeal to the U.S., to Denmark, to the countries that have reduced, is [to] continue to raise again your quotas," Grandi said.



In Zaatari, which has about 80,000 residents, Grandi visited a new solar power plant that provides electricity to the camp for 14 hours a day.



He also stopped by an employment center where 8,000 Syrians obtained work permits last year for jobs outside the camp.



Meryem Mohammed Shaabi, 47, a mother of four, was at the center Monday to seek a permit to work in a clothing factory in northern Jordan where 50 Syrian women from Zaatari are to be employed by March.



Violence, displacement and closed borders have separated the Shaabi family.



Shaabi's oldest daughter and son-in-law remained in Syria when the rest of the family fled to Jordan in 2013. Shaabi said she would like to see her daughter again, but that it's still too dangerous to go home. "There is no safety there," she said.



Jordan sealed its border with Syria in 2016, after a cross-border car bomb attack killed seven Jordanian border guards.



Some 50,000 displaced Syrians have been left stranded in a makeshift camp on the border known as Rukban.



The border closure severely disrupted what had already been intermittent aid deliveries from Jordanian territory to Rukban. Camp residents live in tents or mud brick shelters in harsh conditions, with insufficient food and water, and lacking basic medical supplies.



Grandi said that the Rukban crisis should be solved "in Syria," echoing Jordan's position that it has no obligation to take in those stranded at the berm or allow regular aid deliveries from its territory.



Grandi also said his agency would keep pressing the Syrian government and opposition forces to allow humanitarian access to besieged areas, such as Eastern Ghouta and Idlib.



"The borders of Syria are closed. People cannot go out. So they will have to escape desperately, within Syria," Grandi said, "Civilians must be accessed by humanitarian organizations wherever they are, because it's their suffering that keeps us awake at night.BOSTON - Two separate crimes against children in recent days have one haunting similarity: authorities have pointed to Voodoo rituals as a possible motive.

But practitioners of Haitian Vodou, which adherents spell differently to distinguish it from other variants, say the religion does not sanction violence and fear the crimes will spark a backlash against their community.



"We are being targeted," said Maude Evans, a Haitian native and Vodou priestess in Boston's Mattapan neighborhood. "I'm really concerned that that's how it's going to be from now on. They will do things and blame it on Vodou."



FILE - In this Feb. 1, 2018 file photo, sisters Ra FILE - In this Feb. 1, 2018 file photo, sisters Rachel Hilaire and Peggy LaBossiere sit in Brockton District Court in Bridgewater, Mass. FILE - In this Feb. 1, 2018 file photo, sisters Rachel Hilaire and Peggy LaBossiere sit in Brockton District Court in Bridgewater, Mass.

Two sisters in East Bridgewater were arrested last month after they tied down and burned a 5-year-old girl, permanently disfiguring her, in a "voodoo ritual" meant to rid her of a demon, authorities say.

Peggy LaBossiere, who was arrested with her sister Rachel Hilaire, also is accused of threatening to cut off the head of the girl's 8-year-old brother with a machete.

FILE - Latarsha Sanders, 43, is arraigned in Brock FILE - Latarsha Sanders, 43, is arraigned in Brockton, Mass., District Court on two counts of murder, standing with her defense attorney Joseph Krowski, Jr., Feb. 6, 2018. FILE - Latarsha Sanders, 43, is arraigned in Brockton, Mass., District Court on two counts of murder, standing with her defense attorney Joseph Krowski, Jr., Feb. 6, 2018.

About a week later in nearby Brockton, officials said, a mother stabbed two of her children in what she described as a ritual involving "voodoo stuff," according to court documents. Days later, at a candlelight vigil that drew hundreds of mourners to the crime scene, a local Christian bishop denounced the practice of Voodoo, to cheers from the crowd.



Voodoo refers to religious practices developed by Caribbean slaves who took spiritual traditions from their native Africa and merged them with elements of Christianity and other faiths. Adherents generally believe everything is infused with a spirit and that prayers and other devotional acts will help bring them good health and protection.

A man draws a vAvA symbol - common in voodoo, FILE - A man draws a veve symbol  common in voodoo, a religion known in Haiti as Vodou  during a celebration of Fet Gede in the northeast Haitian city of Fort-Liberte, Nov. 1, 2017. (Jaudelet Junior Saint Vil/VOA) FILE - A man draws a veve symbol  common in voodoo, a religion known in Haiti as Vodou  during a celebration of Fet Gede in the northeast Haitian city of Fort-Liberte, Nov. 1, 2017. (Jaudelet Junior Saint Vil/VOA)

But there has been a movement in recent years in Haiti to refer to the practices as Vodou, which means "spirit" or "deity," to set it apart from U.S. Deep South variants more commonly associated with occult objects like Voodoo dolls and talismans.



The negative portrayal of Voodoo in American culture goes back at least to the Hollywood films of the 1920s and 1930s, said Patrick Bellegarde-Smith, a retired professor of African Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. In "White Zombie," a 1932 film that often is credited as the first feature-length zombie flick, Bela Lugosi played an evil Haitian voodoo master who commanded an army of zombies.



Lunine Pierre-Jerome, a Randolph, Massachusetts, resident who was raised in a Haitian Vodou household and still practices privately, is adamant that what is being described as "voodoo" in these cases is not a reflection of her culture.



"Some see us as worshiping the devil or evil spirits, but that's far from what it is," Pierre-Jerome, who teaches at Cambridge College in Boston and was a longtime administrator in the Boston public school system.



Evans agreed: "We don't hurt children. It's about healing."



The mother of the woman accused of killing her sons had voiced concerns to police about her daughter's mental health and said her daughter had become obsessed recently with a range of conspiracy theories, rituals and mythologies, The Brockton Enterprise reported . It is not clear whether the woman is a follower of Haitian Vodou, and her attorney did not respond to an email sent on Friday.



The women accused of burning the child blew fire in her face and cut her on the arm and in the collar area with a needle-like object, police said. LaBossiere and Hilaire, who are of Haitian descent, said they had performed "cleansing baths" on the children but denied threatening or harming them, The Enterprise reported. Police said the girl's mother requested the ritual.



The women have pleaded not guilty to mayhem, assault and other charges and are being held without bail. An attorney for LaBossiere declined to comment, and an attorney for Hilaire did not respond to a phone message on Friday.



A spokeswoman for the Plymouth prosecutor's office, which is handling both cases, declined to comment.



"Cleansing baths" designed to free someone from some sort of spiritual force are common in the various forms of the religion, said Jeffrey Anderson, a history professor at the University of Louisiana Monroe who has studied Louisiana Voodoo and Haitian Vodou. But Anderson said he is unaware of any ritual that involves the intentional burning of a child's face and speculated that the woman may have hurt the girl by accident.



Animal sacrifices are also common in Vodou, but "only the devil may destroy people's life," Pierre-Jerome said.



Elizabeth McAlister, a religion professor at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut, who specializes in Haitian Vodou and other Afro-Caribbean faiths, also questioned the link between Vodou and the two cases.



"Vodou never, ever sanctions stabbing or any kind of child abuse," she said. "It seems nonsensical."NEW YORK - Author, actress and activist Eve Ensler has dedicated her life and work to womens issues around the world. Shes spent years visiting war zones and developed a special connection with victims of rape and torture in the Democratic Republic of Congo when she was invited there in 2007.

I think what really struck me about the Congo," Ensler recalled, "was the kind of synergistic cauldron of colonialism, capitalism, racism, insane misogyny. You know that all of those violences kind of being enacted on the bodies of women.

She worked with local activists in the DRC to create a womens leadership community and sanctuary for survivors of gender violence in Bukavu called City of Joy.

Eve Ensler with children from the City of Joy comm Eve Ensler with children from the City of Joy community, February 2013. (Paula Allen) Eve Ensler with children from the City of Joy community, February 2013. (Paula Allen)

And it's almost impossible building something in the middle of a war zone. You don't have roads, you dont have electricity. You dont have  it was just... it was madness!" she said.

In the midst of that chaos, her own life got upended. "I got diagnosed with stage III-IV uterine cancer. The alchemy of it all was just: you know, change or die, she said with a rueful laugh.

Medicine to memoir

Ensler turned the months of harrowing treatment -- and years of painful memories -- into a book: In the Body of the World: A Memoir of Cancer and Connection.

Tony Award-winning director Diane Paulus read the book, and wanted to collaborate with her on turning it into a one-woman show.

It was signature Eve," Paulus said of the memoir. "Philosophy, politics, feminism, all told through humor and her point of view, which she does not shy away from. But it was so deeply personal.

In her memoir and new play, Eve Ensler relates her In her memoir and new play, Eve Ensler relates her encounters with rape victims in Congo. (Joan Marcus) In her memoir and new play, Eve Ensler relates her encounters with rape victims in Congo. (Joan Marcus)

So, Paulus arranged to meet Ensler in her Manhattan loft, and they began an intense process to translate it into a play.

In the Body of the World toggles between the harrowing journey Ensler took to fight the cancer, her own painful family history, and her connection to women and nature in the outside world. Ensler says her own experiences with rape and abuse caused her to mentally disconnect from her body.

Watch a scene from In the Body of the World, as Eve Ensler talks about the support of friends during her cancer treatment (Courtesy Manhattan Theatre Club)

I think my whole life, not only have I been trying to get back into my body, but I've been really working to find ways to support women coming back into their bodies," she said. "And cancer did the trick, as well as building a City of Joy because those two things together  you know, we were building a place where women could come back into their bodies.

The show, which just opened off-Broadway, has received glowing reviews. But its a tough performance schedule for a 64-year-old cancer survivor, so Ensler doesnt plan to tour the play, like she did with her signature work, The Vagina Monologues.

A play that launched a movement

Ensler wrote The Vagina Monologues in 1994 as a celebration of vaginas and femininity. She says the purpose of the changed, becoming a movement to stop violence against women. Twenty years ago this February 14, the first V-Day was held: productions of the play in professional theaters, colleges and even living rooms, raised millions of dollars toward womens causes.

I'm so emotional right now, coming up on the 20th anniversary," Ensler said. "You know, when I think 20 years ago, how hard it was to say the word vagina, you know, how crazy everybody thought it was. And then to see how women  amazing women  across the world, across this country took this play brought it into their communities, were brave enough to put it on.

For the 20th anniversary, 3,000 performances are scheduled.All 71 people aboard a Russian passenger plane were killed when it crashed near Moscow, Russian officials said Sunday.

"Sixty-five passengers and six crew members were on board, and all of them died," Russia's office of transport investigations said in a statement. Three children were among the victims.

The seven-year-old plane disappeared from the radar just minutes after departing from the capital city's second largest airport, Domodedovo and was falling up to 6,700 meters per minute in the last seconds of the crash, flight-tracking site FlightRadar24 reported.

The An-148 regional jet, operated by Saratov Airlines, was traveling from Domodedovo, to the city of Orsk when it crashed near Argunovo, about 80 kilometers southeast of Moscow.

The cause of the crash is currently unknown. Russian media reported that search crews had found one flight recorder but it is not clear if it is the data or voice recorder.

Russian Minister for Transport Maxim Sokolov told reporters Sunday that it was too early to draw conclusions, but that all potential reasons for the crash were being investigated by the Civil Aviation Committee.

"Specialists have started working, right now they are collecting the remaining of the plane, search for so-called black boxes and only after the results of their investigation and examination we'll be able to raise the subject of the reasons of this plane crush," he said.

Sokolov also announced that a group of psychologists and doctors would travel to the Orenburg region Monday to help the families of the victims.

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered "his profound condolences to those who lost their relatives in the crash," his spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

U.S. President Donald Trump joined world leaders in offering condolences to Putin and the Russian people. "The United States is deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of those on board Saratov Airlines Flight 703. We send our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the people of Russia," a statement released by the White House said.

The crash site was covered in heavy snow, delaying access to the area as rescue workers had to park their cars and travel to the crash site on foot.

The airport has been the focus of security concerns in the past. It came under sharp criticism in 2004, after Chechen suicide bombers destroyed two airliners that took off from the airport on the same evening, killing a total of 90 people. A 2011 bombing in the arrivals area killed 37 people.

Shabby equipment and poor supervision plagued Russian civil aviation for years after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, but its safety record has improved in recent years.President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated his commitment that Zimbabwe will hold free and fair elections in July saying regional and international bodies are expected to monitor the polls.

Mnangagwa, who will be the first person after the removal of former president Robert Mugabe to contest the elections, made these remarks at a luncheon hosted in his honor by President Ian Khama in Botswana this afternoon, before he addressed the country's parliament.

He said Zimbabwe is open for business and appealed to Botswana businesses to take advantage of opportunities which might arise in the country.

He promised that foreign companies will be allowed to repatriate profits, within the confines of the law, and that his government continues to review laws, seen as unfriendly to investors.

The countrys indigenization law designed to empower indigenous blacks has over the years discouraged foreign investors to open businesses in Zimbabwe in fear of parting with majority stakes.

Zimbabwe says it is currently reviewing the law in order to attract meaningful foreign direct investment.If you havn't done it yet,to get one of the fastest volcano news online:

The eruption of the volcano continues with little changes overall. It seems to have intensified a bit over the past days and there are no signs of a near end. ...

The eruption continues with little changes at moderately high levels. PHILVOLCS reported active lava flows, rockfalls, pyroclastic flows and near-continuous lava fountaining with ejection heights of up to 200 m (a bit more than yesterday).

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We use cookies and other technologies to customize your experience, perform analytics and deliver personalized advertising on our sites, apps and newsletters and across the Internet based on your interests. By clicking I agree below, you consent to the use by us and our third-party partners of cookies and data gathered from your use of our platforms. See our Privacy Policy and Third Party Partners to learn more about the use of data and your rights. You also agree to our Terms of Service.DESPITE major setbacks caused by a destructive 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is reporting a year of several developmental gains for the region.





The bank last year approved $364 million in loans and grants, an increase of $58 million on the previous year.





This has paved the way for the implementation of projects that focus on strengthening resilience, building back better and placing the Caribbean further along a path toward sustainable development.





"This path will not be without challenges but CDB remains committed to partnering with our BMCs (borrowing member countries) to make extreme poverty in our region a thing of the past, said Daniel Best, director of projects at CDB during the banks annual news conference on Wednesday (February 7).





Pointing to the banks flagship poverty reduction programme, the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), in his presentation to media, Best said that the allocation of $40.8 million in resources from the Banks Special Development Fund last year is helping CDB to continue addressing the needs of the regions most vulnerable through the programme.





In 2017, BNTF also expanded its support to include entrepreneurial development, particularly among the regions youth.





The director also confirmed that in 2017, the fund completed 152 sub-projects across its participating countries.





Best highlighted that, through partnerships with international donors, CDB last year mobilised additional concessional resources for infrastructural development across the Caribbean.





The bank, in collaboration with development partners such as Agence Francaise de Developpement, European Investment Bank, European Union, and the Governments of Canada and the United Kingdom, mobilised and operationalised concessional resources for infrastructure projects spanning the agriculture, education, energy, water and sanitation sectors.





In addition, CDB addressed the impact of the devastating hurricanes of 2017, approving $104 million in rehabilitation and reconstruction loans, immediate response loans and emergency relief grants that will benefit about 134,000 people in Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, and the British Virgin Islands who were affected by hurricanes Irma and Maria.





"Such cataclysmic events are the new normal for our region. This is why our interventions in economic and social infrastructure are rooted in climate resilience.





"For the first time, the bank has incorporated community resilience and psychological support services in its recovery programming, Best told the media.





Speaking to the banks plans for 2018, the director said CDB was actively working to fast-track the implementation of rehabilitation and reconstruction projects.





He confirmed that key areas of focus for projects in 2018 include the continued advancement of energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives in the banks borrowing member countries, addressing the issue of youth unemployment, investing in climate-smart agriculture interventions, and continuing support for the creative industries sector through the Cultural and Creative Industries Innovation Fund approved in 2017.



By Olivia Rose

A STAGGERING 1,400 illegal migrants have been sent back to their birth countries since the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) administration took office over a year ago.





In an exclusive interview with the Weekly News, Minister of Border Control and Employment Sean Astwood said this massive deportation signals the Governments unwavering commitment to sustain the countrys zero tolerance approach to illegal immigration.





Repatriation statistics revealed to the Weekly News from a credible source within the ministry indicated that of the 1,400 illegal migrants 1,042 were Haitians, 109 were Dominicans, 64 were Jamaicans, and 17 were Americans.





A handful of people from other countries made up the remainder of the repatriations.





The majority of Haitians who were repatriated arrived in the territory on sloops, according to the statistics.





They were intercepted through collaboration between United States Coast Guard, TCIs Coastal Radar Station, the Marine Branch of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police as well as private citizens.





The Government has since spent more than $770,000 on repatriation and associated expenses within the final quarter of the 2017-2018 financial year.





Coupled with this, the need for an addition half a million dollars for repatriation costs for illegal migrants was highlighted and discussed in the House of Assembly this week, even as a sloop carrying 98 Haitians was intercepted by authorities on Tuesday afternoon (February 6).





According to police reports a group of 83 males and 15 females were spotted in the West Bluff area off Providenciales.





They were subsequently apprehended by the Royal Turks and Caicos Marine Branch and handed over to immigration authorities to be processed, detained and repatriated.





Minister of Border Control, Sean Astwood told the House of Assembly this week that his ministry requires an additional $600,000 to offset repatriation expenses.





He pointed out that the high cost of repatriation has resulted in weighty cutbacks to the public sector and his ministry.





Radar station functional

In light of the recent events where several sloops went undetected by the radar resulting in illegal migrants escaping and making their way into the territory, residents have voiced their dissatisfaction with operations.





Former premier Rufus Ewing recently claimed the radar system on South Dock was non-operational.





Minister Astwood said that the former premiers claims were mere exaggerations.





He said the needed component has long been replaced and the radar station continues to detect illegal vessels on TCI waters at an astonishingly high rate.





Astwood said contrary to the publics misconception, the radar station is indeed functional and very effective.





"The radar station continues to enjoy above 90 percent detection rate and I need to repeat that because its important for people to understand - we detect above 90 percent.





"By any measurement, anywhere around the world, that is a success story.





In crediting the rigorous work of the Immigration and Police Task Force for the success of the immigration crackdown, Astwood said that while the operations of the task force have grown less conspicuous over the past months, it is not a true reflection of the work being carried out.





Covert community operations are yielding far greater results than the main road blocks people have grown accustomed to, said the minister.





The Governments rigid immigration crackdown was announced by Astwood in August last year during a sitting of the House of Assembly as a measure to "cleanup the nation.





He said that while the Government welcomes people from other countries living in the TCI, they need people to work along with them and on their terms.





"You voted for change, you demanded things change and change is here, he said.



By Delana Isles

THE HOUSE of Assembly once again descended into a shouting match with accusations being made as to whose feet the responsibility for the lack of police presence on the island of Salt Cay should be laid.





Not unexpectedly elected member for Grand Turk North, George Lightbourne started the heated discussion by stating that he has been called on by the people of Salt Cay to raise the issue with the relevant authorities.





"I want to bring attention to the situation in Salt Cay where there is no police presence. If you look at the supplementary bill it is being cut by $2 million for crime fighting tools.





"How are you going to fight crime when you are cutting funding, Lightbourne intoned.





"I take the situation in Salt Cay very serious because any rational and sensible human being would know that running a country or an island without police presence is a serious human rights violation.





"I am going to write to the Human Rights Commission and I am going to call on the governor to address this matter with the commissioner of police because the commissioner of police owes the people of the Turks and Caicos, and particularly the people of Salt Cay an explanation as to why there is no police presence in Salt Cay because this is a serious matter.





"Who dont they take it seriously? Something has to be wrong with them. You cannot have an island open to any Tom, Dick and Harry who can just waltz in do as they like and nobody knows nothing.





"In fact, the telephone service in Salt Cay is crap. Someone has to speak for the people of Salt Cay.





"The fact that the people of Salt Cay is without representation, I dont mind filling the gap and being the voice of the people of Salt Cay, because somebody has to speak for them, they dont have the platform to address this issue and I can tell you that they are taking it serious.





The member said that he was called on by the people of the island to make representation on their behalf and as such he called on the governor who has oversight over the security of the territory to address this problem before something terrible happens.





Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson stood up to respond to Lightbourne stating that the member is publicising the lack of police presence in Salt Cay and as such could potentially be inviting criminal elements to victimise the residents there.





She also stated that the member is wrong in his estimation that because funds are being cut, Salt Cay does not have a police officer.





"To the member for Grand Turk North, I look forward to you signing a letter with the Government who has been behind the Commissioner of Police to get Salt Cay a police officer.





"That is the best way to approach that other than continuing to expose that community publicly by letting criminal elements know that they should go in there, she said.





"You continue to give a platform for an issue that people did not know existed as widely as you publicised it and now I am calling on you, mister representative, since you have been receiving calls long after I have, since I have and the representative of Salt Cay has to force the commissioner of police to send police to Salt Cay, the premier stated.





As a result of the issue raised in the assembly on Monday, the Weekly News reached out to Police Commissioner James Smith for his reasons for not protecting the sister island with law enforcement.





He responded: "The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force continues to regularly review the deployment of officers around the country based on needs and risks.





"Following the devastating impact of hurricane Irma, when the officer there was displaced back to Grand Turk, we took the opportunity to review that further deployment.





"We have commissioned a report on the required police response on Salt Cay and that was received on February 5.





"We have spoken with local residents at a town hall meeting and have kept Government updated on the progress.





"I expect that we will be able to make an informed decision in the very near future and all parties will be notified of the outcome.





"We remain committed to providing the most effective service possible within the constraints of our budget and ensure the safety of our citizens.



TWO members of the legislative assembly of Canadas Prince Edward Island (PEI) paid a courtesy call on the local legislative assembly this past week to solidify their mutual relationship and respect.





The visit was also conducted to make presentations to the local arm of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands.





The PEI legislative assembly speaker, Buck Francis was joined by clerk of his assembly Charles MacKay, who is also one of the longest serving clerks in the Commonwealth, and their respective spouses.





Speaker of the TCI Assembly, Dwayne Taylor and other members of the House welcomed the members at the NJ Francis Building in Grand Turk.





Taylor was presented with a plaque on behalf of the PEI CPA branch.





Speaker Francis also presented a cheque of $10,000 to aid the Turks and Caicos Islands in its hurricane recovery efforts.





An MOU Twinning Arrangement between the Prince Edward Island and the Turks and Caicos Islands parliaments was signed in St John, Newfoundland, Canada in 2015.





Greetings were delivered by the Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson on behalf of the Government and HOA member Akierra Missick gave brief remarks on behalf of the opposition.





"It is a great pleasure for my clerk and I to visit your beautiful island, the PEI Speaker said in his remarks, "and this being our first official visit to Turks and Caicos since the signing of our parliamentary agreement, it is a pleasure to follow up and we can improve the way we operate our parliaments and conduct business within our parliaments.





He added: "There are ways we can learn from each other and this is certainly one of the major reasons why we are here and this is what the partnership agreement is all about.





"We are certainly proud to have you as a twin and it is great being here.





The PEI members sat through the morning session of the debate of the Supplementary Appropriations Bill, after which they were treated to a brief reception by the local CPA members.



By Olivia Rose

A POLICY to ensure sustainable management of water resources and better oversight of water and sewerage operators across the Turks and Caicos Islands has been drafted.





This is according to Minister of Infrastructure and Planning Goldray Ewing who said that the policy will see significant emphasis being placed on strengthening the legislative authority of the Grand Turk water operation to improve and maximise revenue collection and cost recovery.





The main objective of the National Water and Sewerage Policy is to ensure the long-term accessibility and preservation of water supply and the provision of safe water and sewerage services.





The policy will also aim to improve the quality of life and the protection of public health and the environment through effective management.





Back in 2016 the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning commenced consultations for the drafting of a National Water and Sewerage Policy for the Turks and Caicos Islands.





As part of the consultative process, the Energy and Utilities Department invited the management

of water and sewerage services and other stakeholders across Providenciales to a consultation meeting at the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs.





The meeting saw discussions on policy and regulatory issues and provided the opportunity for stakeholders to give their input and feedback.





During the meeting attendees raised concerns about the monitoring and evaluation mechanisms in the policy for both water and sewerage services.





Some pointed to the quality of water and access for all citizens living in the Turks and Caicos Islands.





Commissioner of the Energy and Utilities Department Malike Cummings told the Weekly News that when the policy was to be completed regulations stipulating standards compliance with water safety measures would be implemented.





Cummings said: "We recognise also sewage is a serious issue in Providenciales and Grand Turk. How do we address that?





One stakeholder noted that there is need for a solid framework and suggested a draft feasibility study to assess the scope of works to be carried out; he noted that attracting investors is also key.





Acknowledging the point made by the stakeholder Cummings said: "We recognise the need for a regulatory regime that minimises risk and once we could minimise risk and create certainty we will see interest from potential investors. It is part of the wider framework.





Another stakeholder questioned if there would be one set standard for all the islands as it relates to water supply.





That question was answered by consultant of the draft policy Claudia Vargas who said: "The idea is to uniform standards, for instance in the water and quality of standards we will have to work towards the compliance of international regulations.





Ethlyn Gibbs Williams, executive director of the Turks and Caicos National Trust, asked about plans to preserve the original water sources across the Islands.





Consultation meetings were also held in Grand Turk, South Caicos and North Caicos.



Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 12/2/2018 (1309 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The case against the man accused of killing 15-year-old Tina Fontaine was unexpectedly delayed Monday.

As the 11th day of Raymond Cormier's second-degree murder trial was about to begin, one of the 12 jurors was absent after a relative suffered a medical emergency over the weekend.

Handout Raymond Cormier has pleaded not guilty to killing 15-year-old Tina Fontaine.

Court of Queen's Bench Justice Glenn Joyal explained the situation to the 11 remaining jurors, telling them the trial may have to proceed with only 11 jurors if the woman is unable to return. For now, the trial is adjourned until Tuesday as the judge awaits more information.

"There's all sorts of surprises that can happen in a jury case," Joyal told the jury Monday morning.

Eight women and four men have been tasked with hearing the evidence and deciding whether Cormier is guilty.

Cormier, 56, has pleaded not guilty to killing Tina, whose body was found wrapped in a duvet cover that was weighed down with rocks in the Red River on Aug. 17, 2014. She was last seen alive nine days earlier.

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The jury has heard Cormier, a homeless meth addict, was friends with Tina and her 18-year-old boyfriend that summer. Tina was visiting Winnipeg from Sagkeeng First Nation and met Cormier while she and her boyfriend, Cody Mason, were couch-surfing and had nowhere to go, Mason previously testified. It was Mason who led homicide investigators to a tent Cormier had been staying in after Tina was found dead. Cormier used to refer to Mason as Tina's "royal guard" and he told police nothing sexual happened between Cormier and Tina while her boyfriend was around. On Aug. 6, 2014, Mason returned to his home community of St. Theresa Point, leaving Tina in Winnipeg.

In an interview with police, which the jury watched on video, Cormier repeatedly denied killing Tina. He acknowledged he had an argument with her at some point before she died and that she was screaming at him. Friends of Cormier's who were present that night, Aug. 6, testified Tina was upset because Cormier had sold her bike for drugs and was threatening to call the police to report he had possession of a stolen pickup truck. Tina made that 911 call after 10 p.m. that night.

The jury has heard there is no DNA evidence implicating Cormier in Tina's death, and no evidence that can pinpoint exactly how she died. Her body had no obvious injuries and no evidence of sexual assault, Dr. Dennis Rhee testified about the autopsy he conducted. He told court Tina likely died between three to seven days before her body was found, but she could have died as little as two days or as many as nine days earlier.

Much of the testimony so far has focused on whether the duvet cover found with Tina's body could have belonged to Cormier, and the jury is expected to hear more about that as the trial continues.

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemayRobert-Falcon Ouellettes family is from Red Pheasant First Nation, Sask., the home of Colten Boushie, whose death  and the subsequent acquittal of the man who fired the gun that killed him  sparked nationwide protests over the weekend.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 12/2/2018 (1310 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Robert-Falcon Ouellettes family is from Red Pheasant First Nation, Sask., the home of Colten Boushie, whose death  and the subsequent acquittal of the man who fired the gun that killed him  sparked nationwide protests over the weekend.

So Ouellette, the Liberal MP for Winnipeg Centre, has paid close attention to the trial of Gerald Stanley, the Saskatchewan farmer who was acquitted of second-degree murder in a courtroom in Battleford, Sask., on Friday.

The court heard Stanley fired three shots from a pistol after an SUV containing Boushie, 22, and some friends pulled into his farmyard near Biggar, Sask., the night of Aug. 9, 2016, and that the death was accidental.

Ouellette was concerned about the the all-white jury in the trial. He expressed objections to how the incident was framed in RCMP press releases at the time of the incident in August 2016.

"To be honest, I really wasnt surprised," the MP said. "I suspected he would probably be acquitted."

Ouellette is now one of the voices  along with Manitoba provincial NDP justice critic Nahanni Fontaine  calling for a review of the Canadian judicial process.

But Ouellette, unlike many Indigenous leaders, expressed sympathy for whom he believes is another victim in the tragedy: the Stanley family.

"Im really sorry for the Boushie family," the MP said Sunday. "But Im also sorry for the Stanley family. I know most people dont want to hear that right now. (But) the Stanley family, and many farmers in Saskatchewan, have the feeling that their property is not respected and people come on to their farms and steal their stuff.

"The RCMP arent responding quick enough to find the perpetrators, to protect their property. Its essentially become... a lawless state in some ways," Ouellette added.

"I think this calls to us, at the federal level, to ask: are the policing levels in these communities enough to actually make sure we have a society that doesnt need to resort to violence?

"The Stanley family was placed in an impossible situation thats been building up over a long period of time. And they shouldnt have even had the thought that, Im going to go get my gun to fire two warning shots. Thats not normal. Maybe its normal down in Texas or Colorado or other states, but that is not the type of society we want to have here in Canada.

"I feel sorry for them. Theyve essentially lost two years of their lives. Theyve faced legal bills and great difficulty."

As for the Boushie family, Ouellette said: "They lost a young man (Colten) who will not be able to reach his full potential. Have children, contribute to the community. Who knows what he could have done with his life?"

Asked if his empathy for the Stanley family might draw the ire of the Indigenous community, Ouellette replied: "Probably. But the role of a leader is also to look at things with a cool head and try and take a perspective from different vantage points."

Meanwhile, Manitoba provincial justice critic Fontaine said the federal government should look specifically at the make-up of juries in trials involving Indigenous defendants.

"We need to give ourselves a hard look at the justice system in Canada," Fontaine said on Sunday, noting the disproportional percentage of Indigenous populations in federal and provincial jails. "Its not an easy process... but we have a responsibility to do that. And if theres an opportunity to do that, it is now. Including the composition of juries."

According to study released in 2016 by Canadas prison ombudsman, Indigenous people represented more than 25 per cent of inmates while making up just 4.3 per cent of the overall population. And incarceration rates for Indigenous people in some parts of Canada are up to 33 per cent higher than for non-Indigenous peoples.

The Stanley verdict sparked protests across the country, including a gathering of an estimate 500 people at the Oodena Celebration Circle at The Forks on Saturday. A subsequent march to the Law Courts Building on Broadway saw the crowd swell to nearly 1,000.

Fontaine, who attended the Winnipeg ceremony, said the outrage created by the trial registered on "many levels."

"It was pretty devastating to watch unfold, and disheartening," she said. "In many respects, you couldnt even wrap your head around what you were hearing and what you were seeing. And then when you couple that with witnessing just the heartbreak of the family  in particular as an Indigenous mother myself, raising two Indigenous sons  it certainly struck a very hurtful chord.

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"When look at where we supposedly are in this country in respect of reconciliation  and the knowledge and understanding that weve gained, and still have to gain, obviously  I was shocked that verdict came down," she added. "I certainly think it will open discussion."

Fontaine said she was encouraged by the number of non-Indigenous Winnipeggers who have been attending protest rallies, and also by responses from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould, who both tweeted out sympathy and support for the Boushie family.

In a tweet, Wilson-Raybould said to the family "I feel your pain and I hear all your voices. As a country, we can and must do better  I am committed to working every day to ensure justice for all Canadians."

"That typically doesnt happen," Fontaine noted, adding, "I think thats an eye-opener for non-Indigenous people. Like, hey, this is whats going on here. This is whats happened. We have essentially marked property and more sacred and important than life."

randy.turner@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @randyturner15Canada's minister of justice has said changes to the system need to be made in the wake of the acquittal of a white farmer in the death of a young Indigenous man, but her Manitoba counterpart isn't wading into the issue.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 12/2/2018 (1309 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Canada's minister of justice has said changes to the system need to be made in the wake of the acquittal of a white farmer in the death of a young Indigenous man, but her Manitoba counterpart isn't wading into the issue.

Manitoba Justice Minister Heather Stefanson, while expressing sympathy about the 2016 shooting death of 22-year-old Colten Boushie on a Saskatchewan farm, said she will not be commenting on what Jody Wilson-Raybould said Friday on social media.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Boushie family and their friends," Stefanson said Monday after attending a groundbreaking ceremony at Siloam Mission in Winnipeg. "It's always difficult and tragic with a loss in a family and in a community, so our hearts go out to the family and the friends in the community."

When asked specifically about her thoughts on Wilson-Raybould's statements, Stefanson added: "I will say though, as the attorney general and minister of justice of Manitoba, it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further on this... Again, our hearts and prayers and thoughts go out to the community at this time.

"I will not make a comment on this."

On Friday, the federal justice minister posted on Twitter: "My thoughts are with the family of Colten Boushie tonight... I truly feel your pain and I hear all of your voices. As a country we can and must do better -- I am committed to working every day to ensure Justice for all Canadians."

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on the weekend that, while he would not comment on "the process that led to this point today," he would say, "We have come to this point as a country far too many times.

"I know Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians alike know that we have to do better."

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Boushie's family is in Ottawa and is expected to meet Tuesday with Wilson-Raybould.

Last week, a jury in Battleford, Sask., found Gerald Stanley not guilty of second-degree murder in the 2016 death of Boushie.

The jury was told Boushie and four others drove an SUV onto Stanley's farm on Aug. 9, 2016, and the farmer and his son heard one of their all-terrain vehicles start. Shortly after, the SUV collided with another vehicle on the property.

Stanley said he fired two warning shots in the air before the pistol he had retrieved from one of the farm buidlings "just went off" and a bullet hit Boushie in the head while the farmer was reaching for the keys to the SUV.

The verdict sparked protests across the country, including Winnipeg, where on Saturday hundreds of people filled the Oodena Celebration Circle at The Forks, and on Sunday a small group of protesters briefly closed Portage and Main.

kevin.rollason@freepress.mb.caThe U.S. Nuclear Posture Review, published by the Pentagon earlier this month, announced that the United States will be getting two new types of nuclear weapons to provide, in the words of U.S. officials, more flexible capabilities to give tailored deterrence.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 12/2/2018 (1310 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Opinion

The U.S. "Nuclear Posture Review," published by the Pentagon earlier this month, announced that the United States will be getting two new types of nuclear weapons to provide, in the words of U.S. officials, "more flexible capabilities to give tailored deterrence."

Tailored deterrence? What on earth is that supposed to mean?

Its a new euphemism meant to disguise an old, largely discredited and very dangerous concept. The United States is once again playing with the notion of a "limited" nuclear war  and everybody else is very unhappy about it.

Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, called the move "confrontational," and expressed "deep disappointment." The Chinese defence ministry said, "We hope that the United States will abandon its Cold War mentality (and) earnestly assume its special disarmament responsibilities." Even the Iranian foreign minister warned that the new move would bring the world "closer to annihilation."

What the United States is actually going to do is change some of its existing nuclear weapons so that they make a smaller explosion. Its also going to put nuclear-tipped cruise missiles back on some of the navys ships. At first glance, this is not very exciting stuff, but it really is very foolish and quite dangerous.

Various justifications were offered for the new weapons by deputy defence secretary Patrick Shanahan, including the "growing threat from revisionist powers" such as China and Russia. "Revisionist powers" are countries that would like to change the worlds pecking order so that the United States is no longer the sole superpower. It doesnt mean they are planning to attack the United States.

The main reason the Nuclear Posture Review gives for the new weapons is that the U.S. military fears other countries might see its existing nuclear weapons as too big to be used. So the Pentagon also wants lower-yield bombs and "low and slow" cruise missiles to convince everybody else that the U.S. would actually use them.

Really? Do they really think that when those "revisionist powers" see the new, smaller American nukes (no bigger than the bomb that destroyed Hiroshima), they will say to themselves, "I never believed the Americans would use megaton-range thermonuclear weapons on us, but they might actually use piddling little atomic bombs, so Id better not invade Lower Slobbovia after all."

Nonsense. The Pentagon pretends that the new nukes will just fill a gap under the deterrent fence so that "Russia understands that any use of nuclear weapons, however limited, is unacceptable," but what it is really after is a credible nuclear-war-fighting capability. This is the old fantasy that you can safely fight a "limited" nuclear war in some distant part of the world without risking major damage to the homeland.

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Its a fantasy that has been killed many times, but it never stays dead for long. It just seems wrong and unnatural to the military mind that you should have these hugely powerful and expensive weapons and never be allowed to use them in any circumstance  that they exist entirely and exclusively to deter the other side from using its own nuclear weapons.

Its so frustrating that in every military generation there are people who spin theories about how you might safely fight a "limited" nuclear war. The first time their ideas gained a temporary foothold in American strategic thinking was in the late 1950s, and they have resurfaced, for a while, at least twice since then.

Here they come again. Its as predictable as the monsoon, and once again more sensible people will have to devote time and energy to defending the core concept of nuclear deterrence.

The current proposal has been gestating within the U.S. military for some time.

It may be possible for the U.S. military establishment to sell this really bad idea to the American media, Congress and the White House, but do not imagine that the Russians or the Chinese are fooled. They know what the Pentagon is up to, and they dont like it one bit. In due course they will respond, and the world will get a little more dangerous.

Gwynne Dyer is an independent journalist whose articles are published in 45 countries.French media outlets have endorsed the February 7 coalition agreement between German conservatives and social democrats to form a Grand Coalition government, as the first step in an alliance between French President Emmanuel Macron and what they hope will be the next German government.

This is a warning to workers internationally. The policy goals contained in last weeks agreementfor a re-militarization of Germany, doubling military spending, the adoption of far-right policies on immigrants, and a massive build-up of intelligence and police agenciesare shared by the ruling class across Europe. In particular, this is the basis for collaboration between Berlin and Macron, who is pushing for draconian austerity and major increases in military spending, particularly on nuclear weapons.

On Friday, Macron said the Grand Coalition deal was better than earlier attempts to form a CDU/CSU-Green-Free Democratic Party (FDP) coalition. The terms of this provisional agreement are more favorable to the European project than were those raised in previous attempts last year, he declared. He said this while welcoming Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, the leader of a right-wing coalition government with the far-right Austrian Freedom Party (FPO), to the Elysee palace.

While French dailies and news magazines pointed to longstanding differences between German and French positions on eurozone bank bailouts, they were mostly optimistic that despite the differences, Berlin and Paris would find common ground.

Euronews hailed the coalition deal, claiming it opens the way to major reforms in the European Union and foreshadows a political rapprochement with the French president. It peddled illusions that the Social Democratic Party (SPD), a longstanding party of austerity, would oversee a softening of austerity and more openness to public investments. Euronews then contradicted this assessment, citing Professor Mario Telo of Brussels, who said they would promote business competitiveness.

Other publications expressed more cautious hopes that Berlin and Paris could now come together despite their conflicts and agree on a joint European military and social policy.

Le Point, which is close to Macrons government, rejoiced that the nightmare of a conservative-Green-FDP government was avoided. Paris, it added, was very relieved to see these talks break down and a government accord ultimately concluded with the social-democratic SPD. The latter are supposedly close to Emmanuel Macrons European conceptions. But we should keep a level head. The fundamentals in Germany never change.

Le Point poured cold water on the French banks hopes that the SPD would oversee looser monetary policy and the common eurozone budget and investment plan proposed by Macron. It recalled how, after the 2008 Wall Street crash, during the eurozone debt crisis, Paris clashed with SPD Finance Minister Peer Steinbruck. Then-French President Nicolas Sarkozy called Steinbruck a big as*hole and considered him arrogant, Le Point wrote.

The daily Liberation complained that German Chancellor Angela Merkel is far from being a great European, as she showed during the euro crisis, where she only accepted reforms necessary to its survival unwillingly, at the last minute.

Nevertheless, with a Grand Coalition government, Liberation continued, Macron can hope to see his European dream realized. Many commentators snickered at his overreach when he tried to influence Berlins agenda by speaking on Europe on September 26 at the Sorbonne, three days after the legislative elections. But in fact, he succeeded.  The future majority claims at the outset that it is ready to work hand in hand with France.

The right-wing Le Figaro wrote, Berlin will finally be able to respond to the propositions of French President Emmanuel Macron on relaunching the EU. It added that Merkels Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian ally, the Christian Social Union (CSU), were torpedoing Macrons plans, however: The chancellors allies were at the same time inflicting a real defeat on Emmanuel Macron: the European Parliamentinstigated by the CDU/CSUrejected the plan for transnational lists in the May 2019 European elections, a central ambition of the French president for the EU.

Le Figaro, which is close to the Gaullist The Republicans (LR) party and its new leader, Laurent Wauquiez, was pointing to divisions between LR and its ostensible German ally, the CDU. Wauquiez claims to favor economic protectionism and is moving towards the neo-fascist National Front. It is time for France to take care of our European priorities, and not only to be naive about the Franco-German relationship. Germany is not the only country in Europe, Wauquiez said on television, when asked about Merkels criticisms of protectionism.

Le Monde alluded to deep social opposition among German workers to the Grand Coalitions right-wing agenda, which culminated in a recent metalworkers strike. It called the conservative/social-democratic coalition deal an ad hoc compromise that aims to avoid what the leaders fear above all: the holding of new elections. It added that the coalition agreement gives mainly the impression of trying to guarantee the survival of an existing order.

What is left unsaid is that the Grand Coalition deal and the Berlin-Paris axis to lead the post-Brexit EU are based on the most right-wing program since fascist parties ruled Europe. Berlin is rearming and preparing an aggressive military policy, combined with stepped-up repression at home, and the Grand Coalition is working with Macron on his reactionary social agenda and the imposition of a military-austerity diktat across Europe.

Macron aims to tear up all the social gains of the working class after the October 1917 revolution and the Soviet Unions defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. His labor decrees, worked out with the SPD, allow the unions to suspend the Labor Code and impose sub-minimum wage salaries, workplace by workplace. He also plans to end lifetime employment guarantees for public sector workers and rail workers, privatize the railways, and make draconian cuts to unemployment insurance. Unspecified, deep cuts to pensions and health care are announced for later in his term.

At the same timeamid escalating conflicts between Washington, Moscow, and Beijing threatening to provoke war between major nuclear powersMacron and Merkel are plunging tens of billions of euros into tax cuts for the rich, the army, and nuclear weapons.

This agenda is deeply unpopular. Just as 70 percent of the French people opposed the labor law and Macrons labor decrees, barely 30 percent of Germans support the Grand Coalition.

The Berlin-Paris axis proceeds only because Europes population is kept in the dark about its plans. Germanys Left Party, which has aligned itself with the Grand Coalition, and Jean-Luc Melenchon or the New Anticapitalist Party in France, who tacitly fell in behind the media campaign for a Macron vote and refused to boycott last years presidential run-off, are all politically complicit.

This underscores the significance of the call of the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality PartySGP) for a rejection of the Grand Coalition and for new electionswhat Le Monde admits the ruling class fears most. The SGP has demanded the publication of the secret agreements, between the German parties and between Berlin and Paris, underlying the Grand Coalition deal. This aims to give a voice to the working class and a way to intervene in political struggle against the drive to militarism and austerity in Europe.

There is no national road to oppose militarism and austerity. The forces claiming to speak for French national interests against Germany are unflaggingly chauvinist and anti-working class. The way forward for European workers opposed to the Grand Coalition is to fight to unify their struggles with those of their class brothers and sisters in Germany and support the revolutionary and internationalist campaign of the SGP and International Committee of the Fourth International.As public school teachers and service personnel in West Virginia take votes on whether to authorize a strike in the state for the first time in nearly 30 years, the intersection between the economic, social and political issues comes to the fore.

Wages for teachers, as for the working class as a whole, are at the level of the 1970s, while costs for health care and other basic necessities have spiraled upward out of control. Meanwhile, corporations and the rich, both in the state and across the country, have amassed grotesque fortunes. Tax cuts at the state and federal level have placed the burden of government funding wholly onto the backs of the working class.

This conflict is emerging into the open with teachers in West Virginia, Pittsburgh, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and elsewhere confronting state governments over stagnant wages, untenable healthcare costs, and worsening working conditions.

The World Socialist Web Site spoke to J, a high school teacher in Kanawha County, West Virginia, about the possibility of a strike in the next week. A lot of this has been driven by the teachers, J said. The unions have said, Slow down a little bit, but the teachers and service personnel are pushing forward.

Although the states derisive offer of a 1 percent pay raise has received much attention in the press, J emphasized that a fundamental source of the teachers opposition is driven by relentless health care cost increases under the Public Employee Insurance Agency (PEIA), the state worker insurance program.

The benefits of the PEIA have to be funded and secured before raises mean anything. They dont want to come out and do that, and they put it off and put it off, J noted.

Governor [Jim] Justice announced a freeze in the premium increases, but freezes havent done anything but piss people off more. People are saying Fix it, fix it now! Theres a mid-term in Novemberof course they want to put it off.

After Justice called for a freeze, J noted, PEIA went back and re-released their numbers sheet. Next year it freezes, but the following three years youll see a 38.9 percent increase. That cost is astronomical. The pause means interest is occurring, so it just balloons.

County by county, teachers and support staff have taken votes on strike action. The unions, J said, are looking for margins of 70 percent, and weve not seen anything below mid-80s in Kanawha and Putnam Counties. Putnam, a relatively wealthier county, tends to be more socially conservative, so thats where we are, J added.

There has been a higher ratio of service personnel voting to strike than teachers. The service personnel have more to lose, because they are more replaceable in a sense. We have a teacher shortage, with over 700 unfilled positions, but janitors have no seniority.

We cant find enough bus drivers, J added. They only earn $11 an hour, and then they turn around and pay a third of that for their insurance. All that for doing one of the hardest jobs ever.

Public schools are on the front line of the social crisis gripping the United States. In West Virginia, the collapse of the coal industry has contributed to a massive population loss and devastating drug epidemic. This is coal country and there are a lot of drugs. School budgets have declined because of the collapse of the tax base, J said. Five hundred students have left Kanawha County, meaning schools have been deprived of per-pupil funding.

In Js school, changes in curriculum and graduation standards have also contributed to falling attendance. The number of required credits has increased, and the issue with that is that you have a lot of students who have not failed anything. They have ten extra credits by their senior year, so they just quit coming to school and they fail everything they dont need. As a result, academic and testing results fall, opening teachers and the school as a whole up to state and federal penalties.

We also have scheduling problems, J commented. Every year we have to cut teachers as the population decreases. We just need extra electives, fun thingsbut there arent enough extra teachers for those. They put together a study hall instead, which is in the library. But our library also serves as a public library, so you can imagine how disruptive a bunch of noisy teenagers can be.

Our school was built in 1999 to serve an underserved area, J explained. So the school has a library, a health clinic, and a credit union. We have a clothing bank and a food bank.

Hunger and food insecurity are deepening. Four years ago, in 2014, J said, The food pantry saw about 20 families a month. Now we have 70 to 90 families a month. The food pantry used to be used by families as a supplementary resource. Now it is the main source for groceries for these families.

I have kids every week that I pack a backpack for, for them to take home so they can eat over the weekend. I have a walk-in closet in my classroom stocked with food. I tell the kids not to even ask, because I dont want them to feel ashamed, but to just go in and take what they need.

I have no doubt that this will pass and there will be a statewide teachers strike, J stated. In 1990, they said, some teachers broke the picket lines, allowing the school administrations to continue to keep schools open. That situation sowed bitter divisions among teachers and created long-lasting animosity against the district superintendents.

This time around, J suggested, the state and county superintendents would seek to avoid that conflicta maneuver that the unions are all too happy to accommodate. The teachers will make up strike days as school days added on at the end of the year, like snow days, and theyll just add those to the end of our contract. After 27 school days, thats when we start to lose money.

The unions have tried to pump the brakes a couple of times, J added. But West Virginia is a right-to-work state. Teachers have said they will drop their membership if the unions dont do what they want. The teachers are setting their own terms in this dispute.

Legislators have said this will make them less likely to budge. But both sides [teachers and legislators] have said theyre not going to budge. We have said we require dedicated funding for our health insurance, and they have said they will not introduce a new tax to pay for it, J noted.

But teachers have the public on their side. How many parents are depending on the schools to have their kids somewhere so they can go to work?

Beyond the pay and benefits issues, an ideological agenda is involved. From Education Secretary Betsy DeVos on down, a section of the ruling class is bent on destroying the right to free, secular, public education.

One of the senators most involved in fighting the teachers, Robert Karnes, has eight children he has homeschooled, J noted. One of the bills he has proposed is a voucher program, which would take even more money out of the public education fund. Under his plan, homeschooling parents would get between $8,000 and $11,000 per child depending on the grade level. J expressed concern over the lack of accountability for homeschooling parents, and the potential for abuse of the system and of children themselves.India, China vie for influence as crisis unfolds in Maldives

Maldivian police officers detain an opposition protestor demanding the release of political prisoners during a protest in Male, Maldives.

AP, New Delhi :

As a political crisis plays out in the Maldives, a quiet tug of war is taking place around it, with heavyweights China and India vying for strategic dominance in the picturesque Indian Ocean nation.

At first glance, Beijing and New Delhi want no part in the turmoil that erupted Feb. 1 when the Maldives' Supreme Court overturned the convictions of several opposition politicians, including the president's main rival. Chinese and Indian officials spoke in usual diplomatic tones, saying they have no interest in interfering in the archipelago's internal affairs. But in reality, both have strategic regional interests to safeguard and are jostling for the upper hand.

President Yameen Abdul Gayoom has sent envoys to "friendly nations" China, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to explain his government's position since he rejected the court ruling, imposed a state of emergency last week and arrested two of the Supreme Court judges. His actions fueled suspicion that he has no intention of easing up on eliminating his rivals and tightening his hold on power ahead of this year's elections.

His most powerful opponent, exiled former President Mohammed Nasheed, appealed to India to send troops to end the crisis.

"On behalf of Maldivian people we humbly request: 1. India to send envoy, backed by its military, to release judges & pol. Detainees ... We request a physical presence," Nasheed tweeted last week.

Traditionally, the archipelago of 1,200 islands and a population of 390,000 Sunni Muslims has been firmly in New Delhi's sphere of influence, with India even intervening in 1988 when a group of mercenaries tried to seize power. Its support helped keep former strongman Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in power for three decades and later aided Nasheed, the country's first democratically elected leader, who became famous when he used his low-lying island nation to highlight the risk of rising sea levels and climate change.

But the Maldives began tilting toward Beijing after Yameen, the half brother of Gayoom, came to power in 2013 by defeating Nasheed. Yameen has rolled back many of Nasheed's democratic gains, with all of his potential political opponents either jailed or in exile. His government curbed freedom of speech and assembly, with heavy fines imposed on journalists and social media users found guilty of defamation. In 2015, in a trial widely criticized by rights groups, Nasheed was sentenced to 13 years in prison.



He later received asylum in Britain.

China saw the developments as an opening.

"Until 2011, China didn't even have an embassy in the Maldives. Coming to 2018, it's seen as a big player in this whole Indian Ocean region," said Mahalakshmi Ganapathy, an India-China expert at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.

When Yameen visited Beijing in December, the two countries signed a free trade agreement that eliminates most tariffs on Maldivian exports, primarily fish, and opens the island nation to Chinese goods and services, including in finance, health care and tourism.

China is already the Maldives' primary source of tourists, whose spending largely drives the economy, and Beijing is investing hundreds of millions of dollars in an airport expansion, housing development and other projects.



Nicholas Kristof, the New York Times columnist who has dedicated his career to promoting US wars in the name of human rights, has joined the #MeToo campaign with his latest attack on director and comic Woody Allen. Kristofs article was published by the Times on February 3 under the headline, Woody Allen meets #MeToo.

The World Socialist Web Site has written before on the campaign against Allen, and Kristofs role in particular. In 2014, Kristof published an open letter by Dylan Farrow, the adoptive daughter of Woody Allen and his estranged former partner, Mia Farrow, in which she repeated the accusation from 1992, when she was seven, that Allen molested her. The New York Department of Social Services determined at the time that no such abuse had taken place. Allen was never charged with an offense.

Woody Allen in 2006 (Photo credit: Colin Swan)

First of all, it is highly questionable from a journalistic standpoint for Kristof to publish anything on the matter, given that he has acknowledgedincluding in his most recent articlebeing a personal friend of Dylan and Mia Farrow. He has used his influential professional post at the Times to mount a personal vendetta. He evidently hopes that the current lynch-mob atmosphere, with careers and reputations of leading artists destroyed on the basis of (often anonymous) accusations overnight, will be a conducive environment for dealing Allen a similar fate.

In his latest article, Kristof goes from supporting Farrows allegations to calling for the scrapping of the presumption of innocence as a legal principle. Yes, false accusations happen, he writes, and we must struggle to balance rights of victims against those of the accusedbut it should be obvious now that we havent gotten that balance nearly right. Too often, we have deferred to the powerful and doubted the weak, creating impunity and injustice. The problem is not only abusers but more broadly a society that often disbelieves or scorns those crying for help.

What monstrous hypocrisy from this millionaire Times columnist!

First, it apparently does not occur to Kristof that by referring to victims rather than accusers, he has already presumed what trials are supposed to determine, namely, whether or not a crime has been committed. He refers to the accused as powerful, and the accusers as the weak, to provide a left rationale for his anti-democratic and authoritarian program: that the right to a trial, to face ones accusers and to the presumption of innocence must be done away with. To raise and defend these elementary principles is to disbelieve those crying for help.

Kristofs support for #MeToo is itself revealing. This is a man who has made a career out of defending the powerful against the weak, providing the lies and propaganda to justify wars on behalf of American banks and corporations that have killed millions of peoplemen, women and childrenacross the Middle East and Africa, and created the greatest humanitarian refugee crisis since World War II.

It is not possible in the space of one article to list all the crimes that Kristof has supported. They include the wars and regime-change operations throughout the 1990s in Africa and the Balkans, the 2001 invasion of Afghanistan, the 2011 bombing of Libya, and the ongoing bombing of Syria, first under Barack Obama and now Donald Trump. He has also called for regime change in other countries, and is on the record defending sweatshops as a positive good.

Only a few examples. In an article published February 5, 2002, The Wrong Lessons of the Somalia Debacle, Kristof praised the pro-war film Black Hawk Down, which depicts the US intervention in Somalia, as follows: It puts you in the heart of the Mogadishu gun battle in 1993 between Somali paramilitary forces and American Army Rangers, and you leave the theater, heart pounding, wanting to pull out a machine gun and mow down crowds of Somalis. Kristof similarly agitated for US military intervention in Kosovo in 1999 under the banner of combating genocide.

On February 1, 2002, Kristof labeled the invasion of Afghanistan, initiated four months earlier, as a merciful war, and posited that troops can advance humanitarian goals just as much as doctors or aid workers can. By my calculations, our invasion of Afghanistan may end up saving one million lives. The war in Afghanistan, now in its 17th year, has devastated a country, killed hundreds of thousands and turned millions into stateless refugees.

Kristof opposed the 2003 invasion of Iraq on the tactical grounds that it would not be easily winnable, but defended and amplified the lies used by the Bush administration to launch it. In an article published August 27, 2002, in the lead-up to the invasion, Kristof wrote: President Bush has convinced me that there is no philosophical reason we should not overthrow the Iraqi government, given that Iraqis themselves would be better off, along with the rest of the world. If we can figure out how to win swiftly  then Im a jingoist too. After the war was launched, Kristof assumed the role of a semi-official advisor to the Bush administration for the war effort.

Nicholas Kristof in 2010 (Photo credit: World Economic Forum)

Throughout the mid-2000s, Kristof agitated for US intervention into Sudan under the pretext of preventing genocide in the countrys Darfur region. In an April 10, 2008 article entitled Memo to Bush, he denounced the administration for failing to send a 10,000-strong peacekeeping force into the oil-rich African nation, and called for the establishment of a no-fly zone, the first step towards a bombing campaign.

In 2011, Kristof called for a no-fly zone and bombing campaign in Libya, another resource-rich African country, supposedly, this time, to avoid an imminent humanitarian massacre in Benghazi.

As NATO bombs were still dropping in April 2011, Kristof decried the fact that the difficulties of Iraq and Afghanistan have again made many Americans  allergic to any use of force. In September of that year, he published a revolting, breathless on-the-ground report entitled From Libyans: Thank you America!, asserting that Libyan citizens were hailing the American military as heroes of the Arab world. The article claimed that Libya is a reminder that sometimes it is possible to use military tools to advance humanitarian goals.

In 2013, Kristof demanded that the Obama administration launch a war in Syria to overthrow the Assad government, a Russian ally. He has been an ardent advocate of stepped up US intervention in Syria, and hailed the Trump administrations launching of Tomahawk cruise missiles against Syrian air bases that threatened to provoke nuclear war with Russia.

Here is the great protector of the oppressed! Kristofs supposed support for women obviously does not extend to those living in countries with large oil deposits or allied to American imperialisms geo-strategic rivals.

More fundamentally, what does it say about the #MeToo campaign that a figure such as Kristof so uncritically promotes it? There is in fact a logical connection linking Kristofs pro-imperialism and his support for #MeToo. Having spent decades providing human rights justifications for neo-colonial wars, he is providing the same humanitarian arguments for an assault on the democratic rights of the population at home.

Nor is Kristof the only war hawk to embrace #MeToo. The nexus of Democratic Party operatives, intelligence agents and #MeToo campaigners includes Madeleine Albright, the former Secretary of State under Bill Clinton who infamously declared, in a 1996 interview with CBS, that if half a million Iraqi children had been killed as a result of US sanctions, the price is worth it.

Ronan Farrow, Dylans brother, who carried out a 10-month reporting investigation into the allegations against Harvey Weinstein which helped to trigger the current campaign, has a history as a US government operative in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and worked as a special liaison for Richard Holbrooke and an advisor to Hillary Clinton.

The role of these forces is an expression of the right-wing character of #MeToo itself.

The participation of the pro-imperialist scoundrel Nicholas Kristof in this campaign should serve as yet another reminder to workers, intellectuals and young people everywhere that they must completely separate themselves from the #MeToo witch-hunt now underway.

The author also recommends:

Scoundrel Time returns: The neo-Puritan #MeToo censors and their predecessors

[31 January 2018]

Washington Post columnist goes after Woody Allens lechery

[13 January 2018]

New York Times human rights warrior Nicholas Kristof demands military escalation in Syria

[15 August 2018]On Wednesday, the New York Times announced that its revenues grew substantially last quarter, driven by a 46 percent increase in digital subscriptions over the previous year.

Notably, the 166-year-old newspaper of record had its paid user base grow at a rate usually seen only at start-ups, adding 105,000 digital-only subscriptions in December and January, and hitting a new record.

The newspapers stock price has shot up 40 percent since October.

Reporting matter-of-factly on the Times earnings statement, Reuters attributed the newspapers high earnings and favorable stock performance to two factors:

Chief Executive Mark Thompson told Reuters that the newspaper will  benefit from Facebook Incs initiative to prioritize high-quality news outlets in its social media posts to counter fake news and sensationalism.

Reuters added:

Subscriptions in the quarter also got a boost from the newspapers coverage of Harvey Weinsteins sexual harassment story, helping the company post the highest-ever annual subscription revenue of $1 billion.

The Reuters reporter did not feel compelled to note the apparent contradiction between Facebooks promotion of the Times for its lack of sensationalism, and the fact that a major driver of subscription growth for the newspaper has been salacious and explicit tabloid gossip about the sex lives of Hollywood celebrities like Weinstein, actor Kevin Spacey and comedian Louis C.K.

On numerous occasions over the past four months, the newspaper of record has led with or run front-page features consisting of breathless and graphic sexual allegations against film or media figures, displacing major international news.

In fact, there is no contradiction, because the promotion of trusted news outlets such as the Times and Washington Post by the US technology giants has nothing to do with ensuring the public has access to high-quality, objective reporting.

In 1971 the Times published the Pentagon Papers, which exposed the crimes of the Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon administrations in Vietnam. In the intervening decades, on the other hand, the newspaper has become a clearinghouse for leaks and other disinformation from the American intelligence agencies and military, helping to sell to the public US-led wars in the Balkans, Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Syria and elsewhere.

Meanwhile the Times has made one of its most critical tasks the blocking of the dissemination of damaging and revealing state secrets. According to former Times journalist James Risen, the publication had access to much of the information revealed by NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden, but, at the demand of the White House, suppressed the evidence of rampant criminal behavior by the government.

The Times transformation into little more than a state propaganda outlet posed serious commercial problems for the newspaper. The explosive growth of the Internet in the late 1990s, and then social media in the mid-2000s, gave readers access to a broad range of oppositional reporting, expressed in the growth of viral social media videos exposing, among other things, police brutality, social inequality and the crimes of the American military.

Both print media circulation and broadcast television viewership have plummeted, so that last year, for example, more than two-thirds of Americans were getting their news from social media.

The campaign around fake news and Russian propaganda has provided the Times with a means to offset this decline in readership. The term fake news burst into public discourse via a Times article, headlined Medias Next Challenge: Overcoming the Threat of Fake News, published only days before the November 8, 2016 presidential election.

Taking off from there, the Times and the Washington Post published dozens of articles, mostly quoting intelligence figures, both named and unnamed, who argued for various forms of Internet censorship. According to Google trends, searches for the phrase fake news grew sevenfold after the Times started using the term in November 2016.

The campaign to legitimize censorship in the name of fighting fake news, led by organizations with a great financialand ideologicalinterest in blocking the spread of independent journalism, has paid dividends for the Times. The newspaper has generated substantial revenue as a result of Googles actions to promote authoritative news sources to the detriment of alternative viewpoints, and considerable share price increases resulting from Facebooks more recentand even more explicitcensorship regime.

The sexual misconduct campaign has proven another boon. The Times, appealing to the worst instincts in its readership, has made its mark by publishing gossip and unproven allegations and generally spearheading the Democratic Partys #MeToo movement.

Here you have a picture of the newspaper of record for the new Gilded Age of inequality, war, and dictatorship: a sewer where war propaganda, sexual smear campaigns and money derived from political censorship join in one filthy stream.A secret Australian cabinet submission, published two weeks ago, reveals that Scott Morrison, then the immigration and border protection minister, in 2013 asked the countrys political spy agency to block refugees from obtaining permanent protection visas (PPVs).

The document proves that about 700 officially-recognised refugees were deliberately denied visas and many were kept languishing in indefinite detention.

Among the handful of files the Australian Broadcasting Corporation chose to report from a trove of thousands of top-secret papers, this is the only document that actually exposes a previously unknown government abuse.

The cabinet submission, marked sensitive and dated October 10, 2013, sheds further light on the extent to which successive governments, both Liberal-National and Labor, have gone to expunge the basic legal and democratic rights of asylum seekers.

It also demonstrates how governments and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) have exploited the fraudulent banner of national security to demonise asylum seekers.

The document was written following the 2013 election as the new Liberal-National government rushed to replace PPVs with temporary protection visas (TPVs) for all asylum seekers who arrive, or had already arrived, in Australia by boat.

A cabinet decision approved a formal request to the Director General of Security, who heads the spy agency, to align ASIO security processing priorities with a ministerial direction.

That direction was issued to his department and all review tribunals to stall visa applications for the 700 people who had already met, or were close to meeting, the prescribed criteria for refugee status and permanent visas.

The cabinet submission states that the head of Morrisons department had already written to the ASIO chief to request that the agency adhere to the ministerial direction, though without being formally bound by it. Without this, based on recent average flows, some 30 additional security clearances a week could be expected in the IMA caseload, it stated.

IMA, or Illegal Maritime Arrival, is the misleading and derogatory label applied by Australian governments to people exercising their legal right, under the 1951 international Refugees Convention, to flee persecution and apply for asylum.

Thus, every week, 30 asylum seekers who had already passed the narrow test of refugee status under that international law, had their applications stalled. Some already had been detained for months, if not years, under the previous Labor government of 2007 to 2013.

The submission states that about 70 applicants had met all legal requirements for protection visa grant, some 620 were close to meeting the requirements and others were awaiting tribunal and court appeals. Among the first group of 70, fewer than 10 were said to be in detention. No such figure was provided for the total of 700 to be stalled.

So the government deliberately decided to keep at least 10 refugees, and an unknown number more, incarcerated on the false pretext that they were awaiting ASIO checks, and therefore under suspicion as potential security dangers.

Eventually some of these refugees may have obtained TPVs. These are valid for just three years, thus stripping refugees of any security of residence, and also denying them basic rights such as family reunion. Refugees on TPVs cannot return to Australia if they leave the country, even to visit their spouses and children or for a family funeral or marriage. They are denied basic support services, such as community support programs and English-language tuition.

ASIO has long played a central role in barring refugees from obtaining visas, thus condemning them to prolonged detention. In 2011, under the Gillard Labor government, it was revealed that 900 of the 6,500 asylum seekers held in onshore detention centres were waiting for ASIO checks despite having legally proved themselves refugees.

In 2012, over 50 refugees being held by the Labor government faced indefinite detention, due to secret adverse security assessments issued by ASIO. Refugees were not told why they were considered a security risk, making it virtually impossible to contest ASIOs verdict.

Two years later, the Labor opposition backed the Coalition government in defying protests, as well as rulings by two UN agencies, over the continued detention of more than 50 refugees denied ASIO clearances.

The origins of the IMA caseload go back to 2008, when the Rudd Labor government abolished TPVs, which the Howard Coalition government initially introduced in 1999, but maintained the underlying anti-refugee regime. In 2012, the Labor government reopened the prison camps on Manus Island, Papua New Guinea, and Nauru. By 2013, Labor had also kept temporary bridging visas on some 30,000 asylum seekers who arrived by boat.

This was the IMA legacy caseload that the incoming Coalition government sought to dispense with in 2013. It introduced regulations to reintroduce TPVs, but knowing that the Senate could disallow these regulations, it arranged for ASIO and the review tribunals to stall cases.

Morrison issued his instructions to his department and the tribunals by strengthening a similar ministerial directive issued by his Labor government predecessor, Brendan OConnor, underscoring the continuity of the anti-refugee policy.

The corporate media quickly buried the cabinet documents revelation about ASIOs role. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull defended Morrison, who has since been promoted to treasurer, declaring he had done an outstanding job in securing our borders and stopped the boats. Labor Party leader Bill Shorten chimed in, saying Labor was equally committed to stopping the people smugglers.

In his media statement, Greens Senator Nick McKim avoided any mention of ASIO, referring only vaguely to the governments use of artificial barriers to deny refugees protection. This, he said, was contrary to the rule of law, a hallmark of a totalitarian regime. Yet the Greens propped up the last Labor government as it used ASIO for the same purpose.

The cabinet submission underscores the reactionary character of the framework of border protection and arbitrary government assessment of refugees, including by ASIO, which the Greens support just as much as Labor and the Coalition.Nearly 3,700 teachers and support staff in St. Paul, Minnesota could go on strike Tuesday if union and school district officials fail to reach an agreement on wages, class sizes, staffing levels and other demands. A teacher strike in the 39,000-student school district would be the first in the city since 1946.

On January 31, 85 percent of the 3,100 teachers employed by the St. Paul Public Schools (SPPS) district voted for a strike. Four hundred educational assistants voted by 90 percent to walk out, and 170 community service professionals backed a strike with an 80 percent vote. Following the strike vote authorization, a notice of intent to strike issued the day after began a ten-day countdown to strike.

Educators are angry over long-eroding teaching conditions and falling living standards. Maximum class sizes accepted by the St. Paul Federation of Teachers (SPFT) in the last contract in 2016 were as large as 37 students per class for high schools, and 35 students per class for middle school (grades 6-8). The school district, which claims to have a projected $27 million budget, has opposed any significant improvements in pay or conditions.

The SPFT is calling for a reduction in the class sizes by two students per teacher, but the SPPS has refused, saying this would cost $91 million. After accepting previous pay freezes and cuts, the SPFT is proposing a meager 2.5 percent annual wage increase, but the district has countered saying it can only afford a one percent annual raise over the next two years. Teachers are also demanding increases in support staff, including for the increasing number of immigrant students who are English as a Second Language (ESL) learners, and special education students.

This strike vote is the first in nearly 29 years; in 1989, St. Paul teachers voted overwhelmingly to walk out. That strike was prevented by the last-minute intervention of then St. Paul Democratic Farmer Labor Mayor George Latimer, who canceled the strike shortly before it began.

In the ten days that have passed since the strike notice, SPPS and SPFT claim to have made progress on many of the initial issues but have failed to come to an agreement. The union has agreed to keep talks behind closed doorskeeping teachers in the darkwhile the local media has become a platform for promoting the interests of school district officials, and the financial and corporate interests behind them, over the concerns of teachers.

The working conditions of teachers over the recent decades have been under constant attack. St. Paul budget shortfalls of $23 million in 2017 and $15 million in 2016 led to district-wide cuts, including slashing support staff, including school nurses, ESL and special education staff. In 2017 alone, $7.5 million was siphoned from overall staffing, an additional $6.5 million was cut by leaving vacancies open rather than hiring to fill positions, and another $1.6 million in targeted cuts were made to other programs.

While the school district has cried broke, federal, state and city officials have showered billions of dollars in tax cuts on the states Fortune 500 corporations, including retail giants Target and Best Buy, 3M Corporation, General Mills, US Bancorp and United Healthcare. Hundreds of millions in public funds were also just squandered on hosting the Super Bowl.

A teachers strike would very quickly turn into a political confrontation with the Democratic Party establishment that runs St. Paul, including Melvin Carter, the citys first African American mayor. Educators in St. Paul, like their counterparts in West Virginia and other states, are fighting to recoup the wages they have lost since the 2008 financial crash, and to overturn the corporate school reform policies championed by President Obama during his eight years in office, which are now being accelerated by the Trump administration.

Minnesota, which was reportedly home to the first charter school in 1991, has seen a sharp rise in the number of students enrolled in charter schools, from 41,604 in 2013 to 53,960 in 2017. The combined total of students enrolled in charters in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, however, is still fewer than the number of students enrolled in suburban and outstate charter schools.

While teachers enjoy popular support for a genuine struggle to defend their living standards and improve public education, the SPFT, which is tied to the Democratic Party political establishment, offers no way forward. The SPFT, along with the Democrats, sponsored the Caucus for Change movement, which elected several so-called progressive members to the school board, who turned around and implemented cost-cutting and other attacks on public education.

The SPFT has also promoted various stunts, including meetings with the boards of corporate giants, like US Bancorp, and social media campaigns to persuade these companies to contribute more for public education. Predictably, these impotent gestures have produced no better outcome than the unions campaign for better board members.

The struggle facing St. Paul teachers, like all educators around the US and internationally, is a political one over the redistribution of societys resources. Both the Democrats and Republicans defend the wealth and property of the capitalist owners, as do the unions. Teachers must reject this, and fight to mobilize the strength of the entire working class against capitalism and the grotesque levels of social inequality it produces.Casualties from Israeli air strikes on military sites in Syria, carried out Saturday, reportedly included Iranian personnel working in conjunction with the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu made clear that his government deliberately targeted Iranian personnel in the attacks.

He gave as justification for the air strikes the destruction of an Iranian unmanned aerial vehicle that had allegedly invaded Israeli airspace from Syria.

In response to the Israeli strikes, the Syrian army brought down an Israeli F-16 jet after firing more than 20 antiaircraft missiles. The pilots bailed out.

Israel attacked 12 of the countrys main air defence sites, which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described as Iranian targets. The IDF said it had inflicted huge damage in the most significant attack against Syria since the 1982 Lebanon war and the first to claim Iranian lives.

IDF sources said the Iranian military has for some time been using the Tiyas (T4) Airbase near Palmyra for the purpose of transferring weaponry to be used against Israel.

Indicating that this will not to be the last such attack, the Jerusalem Post reported Sunday that the IDF was preparing for war in the North. It wrote that witnesses reported seeing a convoy of missile defense batteries heading north near the Israeli-Arab city of Baqa el-Garbiyeh. Other witnesses posted photos of several trucks carrying the batteries on central highways in northern Israel.

Iran has denied all of the allegations made by Israel. Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi stated, Reports of downing an Iranian drone flying over Israel and also Irans involvement in attacking an Israeli jet are so ridiculous.

Israels actions were given full support by the Trump administration and could have proceeded only after discussions with Washington. On Saturday, Pentagon spokesman Adrian Rankine-Galloway claimed that the US Department of Defense did not participate in this military operation, but added, We share the concerns of many throughout the region that Irans destabilizing activities threaten international peace and security, and we seek greater international resolve in countering Irans malign activities.

US State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert denounced Irans calculated escalation of threat and its ambition to project its power and dominance, [which] places all the people of the regionfrom Yemen to Lebanonat risk.

On Sunday, the White House declared support for our staunch ally, Israel and its right to defend itself from the Iranian-backed Syrian and militia forces in southern Syria.

Israels actions are always calculated based upon its political and military alliance with the US. Former ambassador to Washington and now Netanyahus deputy minister in charge of public diplomacy, Michael Oren, wrote on CNN on the topic How to restore US credibility in the Middle East. This task, he said, centred on convincing Arab diplomats, ministers, journalists and businessmen from Egypt, Jordan and the Gulf States that they were wrong in believing that America was secretly allied with Iran

This meant repudiating the Iranian nuclear deal and other initiatives associated with the presidency of Barack Obama that have created a credibility deficit for the US and strengthened destabilizing actors, first among them Iran, but also Russia, which has returned as a regional power.

Extending this theme, Education Minister Naftali Bennett of the Jewish Home party, who is a member of Netanyahus security cabinet, said Sunday that Israel had so far only used the tip of our capabilities. Israel was fighting an Iranian octopus sending its tentacles to squeeze us in Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, he added. The key to opposing it was to create an international coalition against Tehran.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster are this week visiting Egypt, Kuwait, Jordan, Turkey and Lebanon to discuss Trumps Middle East strategy. The US has spent months consolidating an anti-Iranian alliance with the Gulf states and Egypt and wants to prevent a drift by Turkey into an alliance with Iran and Russia.

Tillersons visit to Lebanon is of significance, given that there is good reason to believe that the next action against Iran could be mounted against Hezbollah. Israels usual justification for action in Syria, including 100 attacks on alleged weapons convoys since 2012, is to cite fears that Iran is seeking to create a land corridor to Hezbollah forces in Lebanon.

On Friday, the US imposed additional sanctions on business figures and firms it accused of connections to Hezbollah, including five Lebanese nationals and one Iraqi.

The stridently anti-Iranian Baria Alamuddin wrote in Arab News that Israel is interested in preventing recent Syrian status-of-forces agreements that allow Iranian proxies to base themselves just 5km away from the occupied Golan Heights and Lebanons recent agreement with a French-Italian-Russian consortium for offshore oil exploration in areas claimed by Israel.

There are indications that Russia decided to allow Israels attack on Iranian forces in Syria to curb Tehrans regional ambitions. This was the conclusion of Gabriel Ben-Dor, a Middle East specialist at the University of Haifa, who told the Jerusalem Post, The Russians found Iran useful as allies in the fighting, but dont want to see them as a huge regional power controlling Syria.

When asked whether Russia would take a stand against Israel, Naftali Bennett said he would not go into details, but added, I will just say that the bottom line is both militarily and diplomatically, we have full freedom to act.

Russias Foreign Ministry expressed public concern at any escalation of the conflict between Syria and Israel, as did Putin in a phone conversation with Netanyahu. But ten days earlier, the two met face-to-face to discuss Irans infiltration into Syria, according to Israeli accounts. Israel regularly informs Moscow in advance of most of the strikes it carries out near Russian forces, noted Israels business journal, Globes.

We agreed coordination between our armies would continue, Netanyahu said following his conversation with Putin.

Whatever the manoeuvres between Moscow and Tel Aviv, however, Israels escalating conflict with Damascus is a dangerous new stage in the Syrian war that threatens a wider conflagration in the Middle East.

As Amos Harel wrote in Haaretz, Israel and Iran are now, for the first time, engaged in a full-frontal confrontation on Syrian territory Even if the current round ends quickly, in the longer term the strategic situation has changed.

Days earlier, on Thursday, more than 100 Syrian government fighters were killed in a massive attack by US forces in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor. The casualties included Russian military advisers, according to multiple reports.

Meanwhile, there are no signs of a resolution of the conflict between Turkey and the US over Ankaras invasion of the Kurdish enclave of Afrin and its on-going offensive against Kurdish forces allied with Washington, which threatens to pit two NATO allies against one another.

Responding to the shooting down of a Turkish military helicopter Saturday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that Kurdish forces would pay the price. The day before, the Turkish military announced that it was constructing a fifth military post near Syrias northwest region of Idlib under a deal reached with Moscow to reduce fighting between pro-Syrian government forces and Islamist insurgents.

The US is determined to prevent any further strengthening of Russias position at all costs.

On Saturday, the United Nations high commissioner for human rights, Zeid Raad al-Hussein, advanced a possible basis for escalated military action against Russia and its Syrian ally. Declaring that 230 civilians were killed in the past week by a government offensive backed by Russian air strikes, he warned that these actions might constitute war crimes. Al-Hussein claimed to have video footage proving that toxic agents may have been released in the wake of at least one attack on the city of Saraqeb.Palestinian leader seeks Russia's backing over Jerusalem

Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas, pictured here with Vladimir Putin in May 2017, is seeking the Russian president\'s support following Washington\'s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel\'s capital. AP file photo

AFP, Moscow :

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas visits Russia on Monday in a bid to secure Russian President Vladimir Putin's support following Washington's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The Palestinian leader was set to visit Moscow two weeks after a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Abbas has refused any contact with US President Donald Trump's administration since Washington's recognition of Jerusalem as the Israeli capital at the end of last year. Abbas is due to speak at the United Nations Security Council on February 20.

Palestinians see the US decision, which broke with years of international diplomacy, as a denial of their claim to East Jerusalem as the capital of an eventual Palestinian state.

Israel took control of East Jerusalem in the 1967 Six-Day War, annexed it and later declared it the indivisible capital of Israel. The US Ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley, has accused Abbas of lacking the courage needed to forge a peace deal with Israel.

Abbas in turn has rejected any mediation by Washington in the Israeli- Palestinian conflict and has promised his people to work towards full recognition of a Palestinian state by the United Nations.

Alexander Shumilin, a Middle East scholar at the Institute for US and Canadian Studies, called Abbas's visit "an attempt to cosy up to Russia, a consistent ally, and to stop Netanyahu leading Moscow astray during an improvement in Russia-Israeli ties".

Netanyahu visited Russia on January 29 and along with Putin attended a memorial ceremony at the Jewish museum in Moscow for the victims of Nazi camps. He took the opportunity to accuse Iran of wanting to "destroy" the Jewish state.

In turn, the Russian president likened antisemitism to "Russophobia" and said Russia and Israel were "cooperating closely", particularly against "attempts to falsify history". - Chances 'close to zero' -

For Shumilin, Monday's visit "is a necessary political gesture for Abbas but can do little in the practical sense".

"It is also definitely not worth expecting a breakthrough from this visit," he added.

In 2016 Russia offered to host one-on-one talks without preconditions between Abbas and Netanyahu but these never materialised.

In January, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov estimated that chances of resuming direct talks between the two sides in the current situation were "close to zero". Lavrov also said "we understand the emotions" Palestinians feel towards Trump.

"We keep hearing in recent months that the US is about to publish some 'major deal' that... will satisfy everyone," he said. But he added that Russia "has not seen or heard of such a document or even any statement".

With relations between Washington and Moscow at a record low for the post- Cold War era, Abbas may be expecting that "Russia-US relations will get even worse and then Russia could do something to spite the US", Shumilin said.

On November 29, 2012, the United Nations designated Palestine as a non- member observer state after a vote by the General Assembly.

That enabled the Palestinians to join international organisations and the International Criminal Court, though they did not become a full UN member state.

Palestinian statehood is recognised by more than 130 countries.



Ctg Eye Hospital ideal place of ophthalmology care : Orbis

Director of Orbis International (Monitoring & Evaluation) Orlin Lozano said Chittagong Eye Infantry Hospital is the best place for ophthalmology treatment and humanity resources place.

She said this hospital should be turned into a international standard hospital in future. She disclosed while exchanging views with the Director of Eye Hospital Prof Dr Rabiiul Hossain at latter's office chamber yesterday.

Among others, Project Director of Orbis, Bangladesh Md. Alauddidn, senior Manager of Orbis Md. Awalad Hossain, senior officer Md. Iqbal, Director of Institute of Community Ophthalmology Khurshid Alam, Ahedur Rahman, Director Md. Moniruzzaman Osmani were present on the occasion.

The visiting Oribis official expressed views that they will extend more ophthalmology care to the children and old men in the country from next year through flying Hospiltal.

Recently, Orbis flying hospital provided services to the deserving patients at Chittagong Airport .

Strengthening base of education for better Bangladesh stressed



Shipping Minister Shajahan Khan underscored the need for strengthening the base of education further by utilizing information and communication technology (ICT) to build a better Bangladesh.

"We will have to put emphasis on technological education. We should keep our children away from venomous bite of drug addiction and involvement in militancy," he said this on Sunday while speaking at a ceremony of giving stipend among offspring of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) officers and employees at BIWTC office in the city.

The minister said the government has been working relentlessly to provide time-befitting education to the new generation.

To build Digital Bangladesh as dreamt of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, there is no alternative to technological education.

Khan sought cooperation from all to turn Bangladesh into a middle income country by 2021 and developed country by 2041.

Acting Secretary of Shipping Ministry Md Abdus Samad, BIWTC Director (administration) Pranoy Kanti Biswas, BIWTC Officers' Association President Ashiqur Rahman and Employees Union President Md Mohsin Bhuiyan, among others, addressed the function with BIWTC Chairman Mohammed Mafijul Haque in the chair.Pahela Falgun today

Heralding Pahela Falgun (1st day of Spring) Parrots were seen crowding the blooming Palash Flower\' trees around Curzon Hall of DU on Monday.

With blossom of flowers and new leaves in trees, nature is getting fresh and colorful shape that touch heart and minds of all ages of people as spring (Pahela Falgun) is knocking on the door.

Pahela Falgun, the first day of spring of Bengali month Falgun, will be celebrated today with flowers, poems, songs and dances. It brings joys and colours both in nature and life.

The winter season has come to a close with rising of temperature as the people is set to welcome Pahela Falgun embracing fragrant of nature and exchanging love with their beloved ones. The spring has been depicted as the king of all seasons in poetry for it is featured by extra-ordinary beauty of nature.

After the dryness of winter, new leaves start to come out again and the nature adorns the branches with new colorful flowers like Shimul, Polash and Marigold bringing the news of spring.

Everything in nature gives an impression of youthfulness or freshness as if the nature takes a new birth. Colorful flowers, melody of birds or mild touch of the sunshine - everything will make you feel that springtime is the nature's festival. The festival-loving Bangladeshi people welcome and celebrate this day with great joys and love, and in a colourful manner. The blazing red and yellow are the representative colours of Pohela Falgun.

Bangalees embellish themselves with these two primary colors. Girls are dressed in "bashonti" (yellow or orange colored) sarees and wearing floral ornaments while boys wear colorful panjabis to welcome the arrival of spring.

Bakultola of the Faculty of Fine Arts of Dhaka University (DU) is the centre point of the festival.

Thousands of young men and women gather in the morning and celebrate the day singing songs, reciting poems and dancing.

The entire DU campus and the Ekeushy Boi mela premises become the best place to hang out with friends, family members and beloved ones. Pohela Falgun brings joys, colours and hopes not only in the nature but also in the lives and minds of the people of all ages.

Jatiya Boshonto Utshab Udjapan Parishad is arranging the main programmes of the day for around two decades.

The parishad will arrange different programmes including songs and recitation of poems except regular programmes.A social media backlash has started over the glamorizing of North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns sister, who became the first member of the norths ruling family to visit the south in 65 years during the Winter Olympics.

CNN bore the brunt of the attacks. The news network published a story claiming Kim Yo Jong was stealing the show at the Winter Olympics. But other news organizations also praised Kim Yo Jong, who maintained a placid and demure smile during most of her public appearances, and seemed to charm her hosts.

The documented brutality of the North Korean regime was the focus of the online complaints, with most commenters accusing media of overlooking the human rights violations in North Korea during their coverage of the visit. Kim Yo Jong departed South Korea today, but has already issued an invitation to South Korean leaders to visit Pyongyang for talks on the peninsulas future.

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Other news organizations have been equally effusive in coverage.

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Alyssa Farah, a spokeswoman for Vice President Mike Pence, who leads the US delegation to the Winter Olympics, also complained about the soft coverage. She recalled the death of Otto Warmbier, a US college student who died last year after being held prisoner for more than a year and a half in North Korea.

Speaking of stealing, Otto Warmbier was tortured & killed at the hands of the Kim regime after being accused of stealing a poster, she wrote, referencing the CNN storys headline. Lets not whitewash North Koreas record.

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Mikaela Shiffrin's Debut Delay Blows NBC Olympics Schedule Slightly Off CourseThe new lawsuit filed on Sunday against The Weinstein Company by New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman adds allegations of failure to protect employees to the existing accusations of sexual misconduct, harassment and violent threats against disgraced producer Harvey Weinstein.

Despite many complaints to TWCs human resources department and widespread knowledge across the companys leadership of HWs persistent misconduct, read an official statement from Schneidermans office, TWC executives and the Board repeatedly failed to take meaningful steps to protect company employees or curb HWs misconduct.

Ben Brafman, attorney for Harvey Weinstein responded Sunday, saying in a statement, If the purpose of the inquiry is to encourage reform throughout the film industry, Mr. Weinstein will embrace the investigation. If the purpose however is to scapegoat Mr. Weinstein, he will vigorously defend himself.

The companys board said in a statement that many of the accusations were inaccurate.

With respect to the Companys ongoing sale process, the Board sought a transaction to preserve jobs and create a victim fund, the board statement said, adding that the board hoped to continue discussions with the Attorney General in order to reach our common goal of bringing this situation to an appropriate resolution.

Some shocking new charges stand out among the many in the lawsuit. Here are but a few:

I Will Kill Your Family



Weinsteins penchant for bullying and harassing employees and others in the industry who drew his ire has been well-documented in media reports. The New York lawsuit continues this trend, with claims that Weinstein went as far as threatening his employees lives and the lives of their families. It also says that Weinstein claimed that he had deep political connections that he could use against others, including in the Secret Service.

Also Read: Weinstein Company Sale in Turmoil As Outgoing Board Rejects Settlement Offer From NY Attorney General

Story continues

Harveys Wing Women

Several groups of women who worked at TWC accused Weinstein of forcing them to provide a constant stream of women to accommodate his sexual desires, the lawsuit says. Among their duties outside the job description included contacting friends of Harvey, clearing out space on his schedule for sexual activity, and accommodating him on trips to Europe, where one of them taught the others how to dress and smell more attractive to Weinstein.

Weinstein required them to meet with prospective sexual conquests in order to facilitate HWs sexual activity, and to follow through on HWs promise of employment opportunities to women who met with HWs favor, read the AGs statement. This compelled service demeaned and humiliated them, contributing to the hostile work environment.

Getting Ahead at TWC

The lawsuit also claims that a culture was created at TWC in which female employees were offered or demanded sexual favors in exchange for career advancement at the company. Those who refused soon found themselves on the outs at the studio.

Also Read: Rose McGowan to Former Manager Jill Messick: 'May You Find Serenity With the Stars'

Even at the Top

One female executive quoted in the lawsuit says that only women with whom Weinstein had a personal friendship were selected as executives at TWC, which she interpreted as a sign that he saw them as sexual targets.

The Bible

Weinsteins assistants kept a hard copy document called the Bible, which the lawsuit says was also kept by some TWC executives. The Bible included information about HWs likes and dislikes, and a list of his friends with directions for assistants on how to arrange HWs extensive and frequent personals.

Another Hotel Incident

Several actresses who have spoken out against Weinstein say that the producer coerced them into sexual activity by luring them to his hotel room. A TWC employee said a similar incident occurred in 2015, when Weinstein allegedly asked her to come to his hotel room to set up some devices for the next day. When she arrived, she found him naked under a bathrobe and was asked to give him a massage. When she refused, Weinstein badgered her until she relented for fear of damage to her career.

Also Read: That Time Quentin Tarantino Said Roman Polanski Didn't Rape 13-Year-Old: 'She Wanted to Have It'

I Quit

According to the AGs statement, another former employee who was an assistant for Weinsteins daughter said that Weinstein told her his daughter was unhappy with her and asked him what she was prepared to do to keep her job. The employee said she interpreted it as a demand for sexual activity in exchange for keeping her job, and she decided to quit immediately.

Rubber Meets The Road

Weinsteins drivers were instructed to keep condoms and erectile dysfunction injections available at all times. One employee said that in 2015, Weinstein made her sit next to him in the back of his chauffeured vehicle and groped her without her consent, even when she attempted to put bags between them. This employee also said that Weinstein made her take dictation from him while he sat naked on his bed.

Also Read: Harvey Weinstein Attorney Weighs Legal Action Against Uma Thurman, Denies 'False Accusations'

Looking The Other Way

Several of Weinsteins alleged victims submitted complaints to TWCs Human Resources department, but none of them led to any formal investigation against Weinstein, the lawsuit says. On some of these occasions, TWC made moves to separate the employee from the company while moving to make a settlement in exchange for signing a non-disclosure agreement.

Where Was Harveys Brother?

In late 2014 and 2015, Weinsteins brother and TWC co-CEO and founder, Bob Weinstein, had been notified of Weinsteins repeated sexual harassment, yet made no attempt to investigate or curtail such behavior.

Pamela Chelin contributed to this story.

Related stories from TheWrap:

NY Attorney General Sues The Weinstein Company Over Civil Rights Violations in Sexual Assault Scandal

Weinstein Company Sale in Turmoil as Outgoing Board Rejects Settlement Offer From NY Attorney General

Producer Jill Messick Dead of Suicide at 50; Family Blames Rose McGowan-Harvey Weinstein Fight

Weinstein Attorney Responds to NY Suit: 'He Will 'Vigorously Defend Himself'New mom Kylie Jenner was snapped out and about in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday.

The 20-year-old reality star hit up Starbucks with her bestie, Jordyn Woods, before the pair headed to a friends baby shower.

While casually dressed in a crimson, Adidas tracksuit and white sneakers, the cosmetics queen still managed to look glam as she walked back to the car clutching her Louis Vuitton Monogram Transparence purse.

Jenner welcomed a baby girl, Stormi Webster, with rapper boyfriend Travis Scott on Feb. 1.

On Saturday, she was spotted in public for the first time since giving birth, heading to a business meeting in Woodland Hills, California, with Woods.

Splash News

Her gradual return to the spotlight comes after she maintained a super-low profile throughout her pregnancy -- only confirming the joyous news three days after giving birth.

"Pregnancy has been the most beautiful, empowering and life changing experience I've ever had in my entire life and I'm actually going to miss it," she wrote on Instagram. "I've never felt love and happiness like this I could burst."Barack and Michelle Obama made a rare public appearance in Washington D.C. Monday morning at the Smithsonians National Portrait Gallery to unveil their official portraits, which expertly depicted major aspects of their lives. Obama was painted by artist Kehinde Wiley and featured a backdrop made up of flowers representing his roots in Chicago, Hawaii and Kenya, while Mrs. Obamas, painted by artist Amy Sherald, showed her against a pale blue background in all her sartorial glory, wearing a custom Milly gown.

The halter dress with floor-length skirt was specifically designed by Milly designer Michelle Smith for Mrs. Obamas portrait. According to a press release, the design was loosely based on a runway dress from the spring 2017 collection, below.

According to an Vogue interview, Smith said that she created a dress that Mrs. Obama could wear in every day life and an official portrait  which matched her approachable style sensibilities throughout her time as First Lady. Its made of a stretch cotton poplin print in a clean, minimal, geometric print without a reference to anything past or nostalgic, which gives the dress a very forward-thinking sensibilitythis is very Michelle Obama, Smith said.

Plus, this dress design reveals her arms, which Smith believes is groundbreaking and very modern for a portrait of the First Lady.

Overall,Smith says her portrait completely captures her intelligence, modernity, confidence, sensuality, and kindness. Its a very open, honest, and beautiful portrayal of her. She was so happy to be able to work on this project that she included a note encouraging Mrs. Obama to run for president: I begged her to do so in a handwritten note.

Although Michelle hasnt worn this exact gown before, she has favored the designer in the past. In fact, she fittingly wore a striped Milly top with flared statement sleeves during her final stroll through the White House.

Back in 2016, she wore a pair of printed gray Milly pants with a cutout tank for an appearance at The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

Story continues

And on the October 2016 cover of Essence in which she posed alongside Barack, she wore an off-the-shoulder Milly dress with bell sleeves.

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When honored with the portrait, Mrs. Obama said that she felt overwhelmed, humbled, proud and grateful.

When she first met Sherald, she said they hit it off immediately. She physically turned to me and said, Im really hoping we can work together,' Mrs. Obama recalled. After that she and I started talking and Barack kind of faded into the woodwork, she joked, saying that they share a sista-girl connection.

During Obamas remarks, he praised Sherald, saying she captured the charm and hotness of the woman that I love.

Obama also praised Wiley, saying working together was a great joy, and joked that Wiley was working at a disadvantage because his subject was less becoming, not as fly as Mrs. Obama.The New York Attorney Generals office has filed a blistering civil rights lawsuit against the Weinstein Co. and its founders, detailing a company culture that routinely violated the states human rights laws and business regulations.

The 38-page complaint features a litany of abuses at the company by co-founder and former co-CEO Harvey Weinstein, who has been accused of sexual assault and misconduct by dozens of women since last fall. Attorney General Eric Schneiderman initiated an investigation of the company after extensive reports of Harvey Weinsteins misconduct were published in October by the New York Times and the New Yorker.

The complaint also cites instances in which Weinstein Co. senior managers failed to respond to employee complaints about Harvey Weinsteins behavior. The complaint cites TWCs COO but does not cite David Glasser by name. The four-month probe included an exhaustive review of company records and emails, according to the Attorney General. Moreover, the company is accused of violating gender discrimination laws given the environment that female employees faced. The Weinsteins and their company repeatedly and persistently treated female employees less well than male-employees through gender-based hostile workplace harassment, quid pro quo harassment, and discrimination, per the lawsuit.

The states move comes days before the Weinstein Co. was set to finalize a sale of the beleaguered company to an investor group led by Maria Contreras-Sweet, the former Small Business Administration head under the Obama administration. But work in the finishing touches of the $500 million acquisition halted this weekend as word surfaced of the Attorney Generals plan to file suit. Schneiderman is seeking to have a measure of oversight into the companys activities even after a sale given the level of violations outlined in the complaint. Those efforts may well be a deal-breaker for the investor group. Complicating matters further is the fact that Glasser was set to be named CEO of TWC after the sale.

Story continues

Schneidermans complaint details Harvey Weinstein issuing threats to TWC employees and the fact that the company had a group of female employees whose primary job it was to accompany HW (sic) to events and to facilitate HWs sexual conquests. The complaint further states: One of the members of this entourage was flown from London to New York to teach HWs assistants how to dress and smell more attractive to HW.

Read the full filing here.

Regarding TWC senior managers, the lawsuit cites exchanges between Glasser and TWCs human resources director about Harvey Weinstein-related complaints in which settlements and non-disclosure agreements are needed. The complaint also states that on more than one occasion, upon forwarding a complaint or information about a complaint to the COO, the Human Resources Director was not involved in any investigation or resolution process. Based on documents obtained by the OAG to date, such matters were handled by the COO and other members of TWC senior management, as well as counsel retained to contact victims of misconduct.

Moreover, Bob Weinstein (or RW as hes cited in the complaint) failed to live up to his obligations to TWC employees in his role as co-chairman and CEO. By 2014 and 2014, Bob Weinstein was aware of sexual misconduct allegations against his brother. RW acquiesced in allowing HW to create a hostile work environment and engage in sexual misconduct that was known to him, or which he was responsible for preventing, the suit states.

The lawsuit adds more lurid details to the picture that has emerged of Harvey Weinstein, once one of the most powerful figures in the film industry, as an alleged predator. In 2014 and 2015, the complaint states, HW exposed himself to a female employee and made her take dictation from him while he leered at her, naked on his bed. That same employee described how HW would insist that she sit next to him in the back seat of his chauffeured vehicle and would place his hand on her upper thigh and buttocks near her genitalia and rub her body without her consent. When she attempted to place bags or other barriers between them to make it harder for him to reach her, he moved the barriers or repositioned himself so that the unwelcome sexual contact could continue.

Schneiderman seeks to force TWC to give up its NDA agreements with past employees to facilitate the various investigations against the company. TWCs culture of harassment and intimidation remained shrouded in secrecy because of HWs and TWCs practice of securing silence through Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) that prohibited individuals from speaking about their experiences at TWC, the Attorney Generals office said.

Schneiderman also asks the judge to allow the state to monitor the goings-on at TWC if the sale moves forward, or as described in the complaint: Judicial or other supervision of compliance with the prohibitions on continued unlawful conduct.

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Subscribe to Variety Newsletters and Email Alerts!The sale of the Weinstein Company was thrown into turmoil on Sunday, as the outgoing board of directors rejected a settlement offer by New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman over civil rights violations.

The new buyers, led by Maria Contreras-Sweet and Ron Burkle, held an emergency meeting with management on Sunday to determine next steps, as the sale had been expected to close this weekend. The standoff occurred because the Weinstein Company board rejected a settlement offer on Wednesday that potentially left them open to liability over sexual harassment claims against the company, according to an individual with knowledge of the talks.

Sources tell TheWrap that the rejected settlement offer included several restrictions, including a third party monitor on the new board of directors to overlook certain aspects of the company plus fines and liabilities against the outgoing board. Contreras-Sweet and her group were also blocked from these talks by the outgoing board.

Also Read: NY Attorney General Sues The Weinstein Company Over Civil Rights Violations in Sexual Assault Scandal

Contreras-Sweet, the former head of the U.S. Small Business Administration under President Barack Obama, was expected to buy the company for $500 million, leading to a complete overhaul of the company, including a new name and a female-majority board of directors. But that deal is now in jeopardy, as Schneiderman has filed a lawsuit charging the company with civil rights violations.

The lawsuit filed on Sunday alleges multiple egregious violations of New Yorks civil rights, human rights, and business laws. It does not block the sale, but the attorney generals office can file a temporary restraining order blocking it within 30 days of the sale contract being signed. The Contreras-Sweet group had an exclusive negotiating window, which was to have ended today.

The suit, filed today in New York County Supreme Court, includes new and extensive allegations about longtime company CEO Harvey Weinsteins vicious and exploitative mistreatment of company employees, the attorney generals office said in a statement. Todays suit includes numerous employee-victim accounts of sexual harassment, intimidation, and other misconduct.

Story continues

The lawsuit names three defendants: The Weinstein Company, and Bob and Harvey Weinstein, the companys cofounders.

Also Read: Weinstein Attorney Responds to NY Suit: 'He Will 'Vigorously Defend Himself'

Ben Brafman, attorney for Harvey Weinstein responded Sunday, saying in a statement: We believe that a fair investigation by Mr. Schneiderman will demonstrate that many of the allegations against Harvey Weinstein are without merit. While Mr. Weinsteins behavior was not without fault, there certainly was no criminality, and at the end of the inquiry it will be clear that Harvey Weinstein promoted more women to key executive positions than any other industry leader and there was zero discrimination at either Miramax or TWC.

He continued, If the purpose of the inquiry is to encourage reform throughout the film industry, Mr. Weinstein will embrace the investigation. If the purpose however is to scapegoat Mr. Weinstein, he will vigorously defend himself.

Reps for the Contreras-Sweet group did not immediately respond to TheWraps request for comment.

Also Read: Weinstein Co. Executives, Board Under New Scrutiny in NY Attorney General Lawsuit

Since the Weinstein scandal broke, TWC has frozen its release schedule and sold off films in an effort to stave off bankruptcy, including a deal to Warner Bros. for the domestic distribution rights to Paddington 2. While other bidding groups were waiting for a bankruptcy sale, the Contreras-Sweet group had agreed during their negotiations to assume all the companies liabilities  estimated at $225 million  in addition to its assets.

Among the titles that would be inherited by the new owners of TWC include a film adaptation of Lin-Manuel Mirandas Tony-winning musical In The Heights, the Benedict Cumberbatch/Michael Shannon drama The Current War, and the Dev Patel/Armie Hammer thriller Hotel Mumbai.

Sharon Waxman contributed to this report.

Related stories from TheWrap:

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NY Attorney General Sues The Weinstein Company Over Civil Rights Violations in Sexual Assault ScandalTarique involved in attack on BD HC in UK : Obaidul

UNB, Cox's Bazar :

Road Transport and Bridges Minister and Awami League General SecretaryObaidul Quader on Monday claimed that BNP senior vice-chairman, Tarique Rahman, was involved with the attack on Bangladesh High Commission in London on February 7.

Talking to the reporters while inaugurating Cox's Bazar-Teknaf road this morning, Obaidul said "Staying in London, Tarique Zia, is instigating different violent activities.""The headquarters of Interpol has been informed regarding the matter. International process to repatriate the convicted person (Tarique) was underway to take legal steps against him," he said. Replying to a query on probability of split in BNP, the AL leader said "The leaders of BNP are enough to split the party."

Earlier on February 7, a day before the verdict in the graft case against BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, some leaders and activists of BNP attacked the staff of Bangladesh High Commission in London and ransacked its furniture which the government termed tantamount to an attack on Bangladesh. Later on Thursday, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, also a former prime minister, was jailed for five years as she was found guilty in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case.

The minister inaugurated the road in commemoration of ATM Jafor Alom, who was killed by West Pakistani forces on the night of March 25 in 1971.The ladies of The Real Housewives of Atlanta are heading to Spain! Well  some of them, that is.

On Sundays episode of the hit Bravo show, the Atlanta Housewives hopped on a flight to Barcelona for this seasons big girls trip  though not all of ATLs best made it to the tarmac for takeoff.

Longtime rivals Kenya Moore and Kim Zolciak-Biermann skipped the getaway, for very different reasons that left costars NeNe Leakes, Kandi Burruss, Cynthia Bailey, Sheree Whitfield and Porsha Williams polarized.

Kim Zolciak-Biermann and Kenya Moore

For Moore, her insistence on avoiding drama and conflict in the wake of her marriage to husband Marc Daly was a real driving force.

I passed on Barcelona because I have been on two trips already with these ladies and each have had negative components, the 47-year-old former Miss U.S.A. explained, recalling visits in San Francisco and Houston earlier this season that exploded in questions about her relationship and criticisms of her attitude.

My priority is my family, Moore continued.

Bailey, a BFF of Moores, appeared to understand. Kenyas at a point in her life where she just got married, shes happy, the supermodel, 50, told audiences. So if I cant get Kenya to allow me to meet her husband in the United States, how in the hell am I supposed to convince her to come to Barcelona if she doesnt want to go.

Marc Daly and Kenya Moore

But when it came to Zolciak-Biermanns decision to stay behind, Baileys costars were far less understanding.

Perhaps thats because Zolciak-Biermann has been difficult about traveling on group trips in the past.

There was the vacation to South Africa that she skipped in season 4 so she could stay at home with her kids. And then there was the couples trip to Anguilla in season 5, which the mere discussion of caused the mother-of-six (who was pregnant at the time) to storm away from the cameras and quit the show entirely.

Shes back now after a five-year hiatus, in a Friend of the Housewives role. But even though shes not full-time, the cast still wanted her to join them  and fellow guests Shamea Morton, Marlo Hampton and Eva Marcille  for the overseas excursion.

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Kroy Biermann and Kim Zolciak-Biermann

Sadly, Zolciak-Biermann wasnt going to travel to Spain without her husband Kroy Biermann coming along.

Her reasoning? The mini-stroke she had in September 2015, which led to her hospitalization (and, eventually, heart surgery after doctors discovered an existing genetic condition that required treatment).

Less than two years ago, I had a stroke coming from L.A. which is a four-hour flight. Going to Barcelona, which is a 10-hour flight, does make me nervous, Zolciak-Biermann said. I know that my husband would make sure Im okay. He knows why signs to look for.  It makes me very uneasy.

I dont know why its an issue to bring Kroy, she told her cast. Hes my husband. I dont understand what the problem is.

Not everyone was against the idea, including Williams, Whitfield and Bailey. This trip is a girlfriends trip. However, I know when it comes to Kim, her idea of girlfriends is her and her girlfriends and Kroy, Bailey explained. I have no energy to go back and forth about it. She wants to bring Kroy, bring Kroy.

Kim likes to bring Kroy everywhere she goes, Whitfield said. Now, I cant say Im 100 percent opposed to that because Im a girl who likes to be spoiled. So if I got a man who wants to drive me around and sit in the parking lot, then okay!

Still, pressure from folks like Leakes kept Zolciak-Biermann from getting on that plane.

NeNe was super vocal about Kroy not going, Zolciak-Biermann said. A 10-hour flight and not bringing my husband, it does make me nervous.

NeNe Leakes

Her absence made Leakes happy.

Kim is not coming, which I think is amazing, Leakes, 50, said. She was going to come and Kroy was going to come. But really, its a girls trip. And I dont think that anyone should have to travel on this trip if they cannot travel without their significant other.

I think its the strangest thing that she cannot leave and travel without Kroy, Leakes added. She cant travel without Kroy? That is so stupid.

Burruss appeared happy, too: If Kim wanted to come on the trip with her husband, than stay at home, the Grammy winner, 41, said. Its a girls trip. Kim is always the one who feels like she doesnt have to follow the rules. Which is fine. You dont have to hang out with the circle.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta airs Sundays (8 p.m. ET) on Bravo.Two brothers and the girlfriend of one of the men have been identified as the British tourists who lost their lives in a helicopter crash over the weekend in the Grand Canyon.

Becky Dobson, 27, her boyfriend Stuart Hill, 30 and his brother Jason Hill, 32, were killed when the Papillon Airways EC130 they were flying in crashed under unknown circumstances near Quartermaster Canyon on the Hualapai Reservation Saturday, police said.

The pilot, 42-year-old Scott Booth, and passengers Ellie Milward, 29, her husband Jonathan Udall, 32, and their friend and Jason Hills girlfriend, Jennifer Barham, 39, survived the crash but were critically injured, according to authorities.

They were airlifted to University Medical Center in Las Vegas early Sunday morning, about eight hours after the crash occurred.

Hualapai Nation Police Chief Francis Bradley said high winds, darkness and extremely rugged terrain surrounding the crash site made recovery efforts difficult.

We all extend our condolences to all the family, friends and relatives of this crash, he said Sunday. Its a very tragic incident and I would like to personally commend all the first responders who were involved in this rescue effort and recovery operation.

The six passengers had reportedly traveled to the United States to celebrate Stuart Hills 30th birthday.

The Hill brothers spent a year saving for the trip, their father told the London Evening Standard.

The two brothers loved each other and were very close, and so our misfortune is their support  because they went together, and I will thank God every day for them, their father, Reverend David Hill, told the Evening Standard. They were incredibly close and as parents we feel blessed to have had them, but a light has truly gone out... We are absolutely devastated.

Stuart Hill worked as a Mercedes salesman, while his older brother, Jason was a corporate senior associate for the law firm, Shoosmiths.

The boys were so close, they were born 22 months apart and were like twins, their father, a hospital chaplain, told Caters News. "They were just inseparable.

Story continues

Stuart Hills girlfriend, Becky Dobson, worked as a receptionist at a veterinary office.

On the offices website, Dobson said she loved to spend time with her horse, Buddy, and see friends and family.

I also love to travel the world, she wrote.

Dobson, who spent time in Australia working as an au pair, shared photos on Facebook of her time spent abroad, writing: To travel is to live.

Crash survivors Ellie Milward and Jonathan Udall were on their honeymoon with friends.

Crash survivors Ellie Milward and Jonathan Udall were on their honeymoon with friends. Caters

Newlyweds Ellie Milward and Jonathan Udall survived the crash, as did Jennifer Barham, Jason Hills girlfriend.

Milward and Udall were married in November and the trip to the U.S. was part of their honeymoon, loved ones said.

Jonathan Udall and Ellie Milward at their wedding with Becky Dobson and Stuart Hill.

Jonathan Udall and Ellie Milward at their wedding with Becky Dobson and Stuart Hill. Caters

We have spoken to the hospital and they are in a critical condition but they told us they are currently stable, Udalls father, Philip, told Caters. The information is currently quite sketchy but we know that other families will be suffering a lot worse than us at the moment. Others were not so lucky.

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Related Articles:Dabbling in real estate and looking for a way to invest hundreds of millions of dollars with virtually no chance of return? Then the International Space Station (ISS) is for you.

Discontinuing funding for space station operations after 2024 and turning the job over to the private sector after that is something the Trump Administration is currently contemplating, the Washington Post reports. The good news is this will surely never happen. The bad news is that the White House is even considering a plan that fails on so many levels.

Here are the three big ones.

Privatizing the Space Station is a fiscal loser

The International Space Station was first proposed in 1984 by then-President Ronald Reagan. Back then it was called the Freedom Space Station, and back then it was supposed to cost just $8 billion ($19 billion in 2017 dollars). Things havent worked out quite that way, with $100 billion the generally accepted figure for what the U.S. has spent on the station so far  and many analysts putting the figure closer to $150 billion, once you take support costs into consideration. Just maintaining the completed station costs up to $4 billion per year  big money for a space agency whose overall annual budget is less than $20 billion. So its an investment that the government might well want to unload. But as with all distressed properties, the question is, who would want it?

The station was never intended to be a money-making operation, and after more than 17 years of continuous operation, it has succeeded in not earning so much as a dime. For starters, flights to the station do not come cheap. In 2018, Russia will be charging the U.S. $81 million per seat to launch astronauts aboard the Soyuz spacecraft. American companies dont offer much more of a bargain: The Falcon 9, for example  SpaceXs workhorse rocket  costs $62 million per launch. For private sector lessees who want to operate the station as a working lab, thats an awful lot to spend just to get your employees to work.

Story continues

The cost doesnt go down to fly tourists to the station. Unless the space station lessees also own their own rockets, profits from a ticket will go to the companies that do the launching. Whats more, the station typically holds six people, and while it may eventually be reconfigured to accommodate as many as nine, most of those crew members have to be pilots and engineers. That leaves only a few spots for paying tourists. A hotel with seven or eight employees for every guest is not going to turn much profit.

Privatizing the Space Station is a scientific loser

There are two main reasons the research aboard the ISS doesnt get done on Earth: The microgravity aboard the station provides an environment not available on the planet, and the studies conducted there are largely pure science  done strictly to advance the state of knowledge. Maybe there will eventually be commercial applications, but with no stockholders demanding a return on investment, theres no pressure to limit the research to only the projects that are closest to being monetized. Thats the kind of work that gets done by foundations, universities and government programs, not by private investors.

As the year astronaut Scott Kelly and cosmonaut Misha Kornienko spent in space showed, a great deal of station research is devoted to studying how the human body fares during long-term exposure to the space environment. Those studies are critical to any plans for deep space exploration, but any theoretical payoff from them is decades in the future.

Privatizing the Space Station is even a political loser

Want to win elections? Then dont mess with Florida  that swingiest of swing states. And with bright red Texas at least flirting with purple, dont mess with the folks over there, either. Thats a lesson President Barack Obama learned in 2010 when he tried to cancel plans for the Ares V booster and the Orion spacecraft  the 21st century versions of the Saturn V rocket and the Apollo orbiter. Blowback from Congress and industry was fierce and Obama responded by restoring both programs, though the name of the Ares V was changed to the prosaic Space Launch System (SLS).

Already, Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz has blasted the privatization idea. As a fiscal conservative, you know one of the dumbest things you can to is cancel programs after billions in investment when there is still serious usable life ahead, Cruz said recently.

Its not just Texas and Florida that would be ticked off at station privatization. Like any good, unkillable government project, the ISS has its roots sunk in congressional districts all over the country, where manufacturers and suppliers have long relied on regular contracts to continue servicing the station. You can barely turn a bolt in the station without somebodys cash register ringing on Earth. Running that revenue through private lessees would only dilute the cash flow.

American stakeholders arent the only ones who could stand to be hurt. Fourteen other nations are partners in the station (thats how you get the I in ISS), and most of them were sweet-talked into the project by the United States. They would not look kindly on the senior partner in the operation taking a golden parachute now.

The laws of physics and engineering will determine how much longer the station lives, but few people expect it to be around in the 2030s. History then will judge whether or not the entire project was a wise investment of public funds and energy.

Either way, current chatter notwithstanding, those resources should  and all but certainly will  remain public.Jerusalem is off negotiation table: Trump

US President Donald Trump has reiterated that the issue of Jerusalem is off the negotiating table after his decision to declare the city as the capital of Israel and move the US embassy to the holy city from Tel Aviv.

"By taking Jerusalem off the table I wanted to make it clear that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and as for specific boundaries, I would support what both sides agreed to," Trump told newspaper Israel Hayom on Sunday.

Trump's comments echoed those he made during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland last month.

"They never got past Jerusalem. We took it off the table. We don't have to talk about it anymore," Trump told reporters.

Breaking with years of US policy, Trump announced the move on December 6, drawing international condemnation and sparking a wave of heated protests around the world.

A resounding majority of United Nations member states declared Trump's move as "null and void" in a non-binding resolution.

The status of Jerusalem, which is home to holy religious sites and has particular significance for Muslims, Christians and Jews, has long remained a sensitive topic and one of the core issues in the Israeli-Palestine conflict.

In the exclusive interview with Israel Hayom, Trump also urged both Israel and Palestine to make "hard compromises" to reach a peace agreement, as he warned against Israeli settlements.

In a rare criticism of the Israeli leadership, the US president questioned Israel's commitment to making peace with the Palestinians.

"Right now, I would say the Palestinians are not looking to make peace, they are not looking to make peace," he told the Hayom, which is owned by American billionaire and Trump backer Sheldon Adelson.

"And I am not necessarily sure that Israel is looking to make peace," the Republican president added.

Israel occupied East Jerusalem in 1967 and proceeded to effectively annex it, in breach of international law.

The Palestinian leadership in the occupied West Bank, however, see East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state.

Today, 86 percent of East Jerusalem is under the direct control of the Israeli authorities and Jewish settlers.

Trump warned Netanyahu's government against Israeli settlements getting in the way of negotiations.

"The settlements are something that very much complicates and always have complicated making peace, so I think Israel has to be very careful with the settlements," he said.

Between 600,000 and 750,000 Israelis live in sizeable settlements, beyond the internationally recognised borders of their state. Phyllis Bennis, author of Understanding the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict, doubts Trump's comments represent a policy shift by the US. "I think what we are seeing here is not the end of the US role as an honest broker because it never was an honest broker," she told Al Jazeera. "This [his comments] is simply a clearer acknowledgment of that reality." "President Trump has made it clear that he is more officially and formally pro-Israel than another recent president," added Bennis, who is also a fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies.

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Reuben Foster is in trouble yet again, this time arrested in California on charges related to domestic violence, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

The San Jose Mercury News reported that Fosters charges also include suspicion of possessing an assault rifle.

Foster was booked at the Santa Clara County Jail on Sunday and held on $75,000 bail.

This is the second time in 2018 that Foster has been arrested: on January 12, he was taken into custody in Tuscaloosa, Ala. for second-degree marijuana possession. It is a Class A misdemeanor in the state.

san Francisco 49ers linebacker Reuben Foster was arrested on Sunday in California. (AP)

But these are just Fosters most recent troubles. At the Combine last year, Foster failed his drug test after submitting a diluted sample, and was then kicked out of the Combine after allegedly mistreating a hospital worker during his medical checks.

The 49ers released a statement reading, The San Francisco 49ers organization is aware of the report regarding Reuben Foster. We take matters of this nature seriously and are gathering all pertinent information.

Last month at the Senior Bowl, San Francisco general manager John Lynch told Niners Nation beat writer Jennifer Lee Chan of Foster, Hes got to stay clean. We all know how special of a player he can be when hes right. So hes got to figure out how to stay healthy and stay out of trouble, but we believe he will do that.

While considered a top-10 talent, Foster fell to the end of the first round because of his character concerns as well as his injury history. San Francisco selected him 31st overall.

Both of those pre-draft concerns have already shown themselves: Foster missed six games last season, five to a high-ankle sprain and one to back spasms, and now two arrests in the span of a month.

By the NFLs own rule, players accused of domestic violence can receive a six-game minimum suspension.Women have long contributed to and transformed scientific knowledge, but they aren't always widely recognized for their hard, brilliant work.

Now that the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (#WomenInScience) is upon us, take a moment to meet some young women just starting out in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), and women who, through their research and discoveries, changed the course of history.

SEE ALSO: The accidental library: Why Elon Musk launched books to space that could last 14 billion years

These seven talented girls and women will inspire you to get serious about STEM.

Shurouq Al Hamaideh, who is from Tafila, Jordan, launched a social business in 2016 to teach teenagers computer programming. When UN Women profiled her work last year, the then-22-year-old had already provided training to dozens of young people  and nearly half of the participants were teenage girls.

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Hamaideh told the UN that it wasn't difficult to teach the teens how to code. The more difficult challenge was making do with limited resources  just one computer lab with 30 computers. That didn't stop Hamaideh.

"We wanted to create an enabling environment for girls and young women to learn technology near their homes, since they do not have a lot of mobility without the consent of their parents or husband," Hamaideh said.

"I want to teach computer programming to as many girls as possible so that we can break these stereotypes and give girls the chance they deserve."

In the past few years, Lamija Gutic has participated in several coding camps, including IT Girls, a UN and UN Women initiative. Gutic, a teenager from Sarajevo, developed the skills to create websites and apps through that training, and she hopes to one day develop tech solutions to help improve people's lives.

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"For me, [information communication technology] is a world full of opportunities in which anyone can find their place, regardless of affinities, abilities and gender," she told UN Women, in October 2017.

Story continues

"One person cannot change the entire world alone, but we can influence the people around us, our friends, family and peers."

In 2009, Elizabeth H. Blackburn made history when she received the first Nobel Prize awarded to two women. Blackburn, Carol W. Greider (see #4), and Jack W. Szostak discovered how the enzyme telomerase and telomeres  a component of human cells  protect chromosomes.

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Long before she received the Nobel Prize in Medicine, Blackburn discovered, in 1980, that telomeres, which "cap" a chromosome, have a particular DNA.

Blackburn is a professor emeritus at the University of California at San Francisco School of Medicine.

Carol W. Greider was doing laundry when she received a call informing her that she'd received a Nobel Prize in 2009. More than a decade before, she and Blackburn discovered the enzyme telomerase  an enzyme that was ultimately recognized by scientists as critical to understanding how cancers and other human genetic diseases develop.

"I never planned a career ... I just went forward," Greider told the New York Times after receiving the Nobel Prize. "I loved doing experiments and I had fun with them."

Greider, a professor at Johns Hopkins University, runs her own lab and continues to research telomeres and telomerase.

Barre-Sinoussi was one of three people who received the Nobel Prize in Medicine, in 2008. She and and researcher Luc Montagnier were recognized for their work discovering the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In 1983, Barre-Sinoussi and Montagnier identified the retrovirus, which attacks blood cells critical to the body's immune system.

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"For me, I was very much interested in science from a young age," Barre-Sinoussi said in 2017. "During my vacations, when I was a child, I could spend hours looking at animals, comparing the behaviour of one animal to another, trying to understand, for example, why one was not running as fast as the other. I then realized at school that I was very good at science."

She is a professor at the Institut Pasteur in France.

Jemison became the first African-American woman to travel into space when she flew on the Endeavor as a science mission specialist in 1992. Jemison's background is in engineering and medical research, and she worked in public health prior to joining NASA in 1987.

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Her eight-day mission to space focused on experiments in weightlessness and motion sickness. She spent 190 hours, 30 minutes, and 23 seconds in space. Jemison left NASA in 1993 and founded a private research company.

"When people talk about the space program, they ask me, 'Was it the toughest job I ever had; was it the most difficult?' and it wasn't," Jemison said in an interview in 2003. "Probably being a Peace Corps doctor was the most difficult job, because I was on call seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and I was responsible for people's lives and their health. I was the person that was there. Period."

If you've seen the movie Hidden Figures, then you know Katherine Johnson. Played by the actress Taraji P. Henson, Johnson was the brilliant mathematician who faced discrimination at NASA in the '50s and '60s and still made invaluable contributions to the U.S. space program. Her calculations helped the U.S. send a man to the moon.

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"Theres nothing to it  I was just doing my job, she told the Washington Post, in 2017, about her work at NASA. They needed information and I had it, and it didnt matter that I found it. At the time, it was just a question and an answer."

Johnson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015  and Hidden Figures screenings at U.S. embassies in 2017 inspired a program for women in STEM.Its Abraham Lincolns 210th birthday today, but you wouldnt know it by watching the number of states that observe the day as a paid holiday.

Currently, the Lincoln holiday is celebrated unofficially nationwide, as part of what many states call Presidents Day, which falls on Monday, February 18 this year. Just a few states celebrate the actual Lincoln birthday on its date. And technically, the federal Presidents Day commemorates George Washingtons observed birthday: There is no national holiday called Presidents Day.

The third Monday in February is the date designated for the federal Washingtons Birthday holiday under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971.

So on February 12, Lincolns real birthday, there are few celebrations on a state level, along with a ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. There is also a wreath ceremony at Lincolns birthplace in Kentucky.

Lincoln really was born in a one-room log cabin, on Sinking Spring Farm near present-day Hodgenville, Kentucky. (The original cabin was destroyed by the time of Lincolns death in 1865.)

There were efforts right after Lincolns death to get this birthday recognized as a holiday, but there has never been a federal Lincoln-birthday holiday.

By 1890, Lincolns birthday was observed as a paid holiday in 10 states. According to one blog that tracks the holiday, in 1940 24 states and the District Of Columbia observed Lincolns Birthday.

Now, after the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was passed in 1971 and states moved toward considering the federal Washington-birthday holiday as Presidents Day, there are just a handful of states that honor Lincoln directly. The states that currently have Lincoln-birthday holidays on February 12 include Illinois (Lincolns adopted home state), California, Connecticut, Missouri, and New York.

There have been several attempts in Congress to get Lincoln his own national holiday, but none have succeeded. Now, more states celebrate Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) than Lincolns birthday. In fact, 18 states, not including Indiana, have days off for state employees for Black Friday. Another 10 states give their employees the day off for Good Friday, and five states recognize December 26 as a holiday.

And although it may seem odd that Indiana, and also New Mexico, honor Lincoln on the day after Thanksgiving, it was President Lincoln who issued the proclamation in 1863 that officially set the precedent for America's national day of Thanksgiving.London (AFP) - Mary Lou McDonald on Saturday replaced Gerry Adams as president of Sinn Fein following his decision to step down after 34 years as the figurehead of the Irish republican movement.

McDonald, the leftwing party's deputy leader, was confirmed last month as successor to Adams, 69, who has dominated the group since November 1983.

She was officially ratified as the new Sinn Fein president at a historic party conference in Dublin on Saturday afternoon in front of around 2,000 delegates.

In her maiden speech as leader, the 48-year-old vowed to secure a referendum on Irish unity.

"Our purpose is to win," she told attendees. "To win elections, to increase our political strength, to realise our ambition of being in government north and south, to win progressive political victories every single day, and ultimately to win Irish unity," she said.

"Irish unity, in our time!"

The new head of the pro-European Union party also issued a warning to Britain's Conservative government in Westminster, as it attempts to navigate exiting the bloc in March 2019 without reintroducing a hard border on the island.

"Ireland will not be the collateral damage in the political games and antics of Tories in London," she added.

Adams told the Press Association (PA) on Friday that he believed public debate around the issue of Irish unity had now become "much more prevalent".

He said he had simply tried to do his best during his decades at the helm.

"And I think that is all we can do. I am satisfied I have done my best," he said.

- A break from the past -

Adams played a major role in convincing the IRA to disarm as part of the Northern Ireland peace process and masterminded Sinn Fein's rise to become the second-biggest political force north of the border and the third in the south.

But many consider his past links to the IRA a millstone, although Adams denies ever being a member of the paramilitary organisation that fought for a unified Ireland.

Story continues

He told PA he regretted the blood spilt during Northern Ireland's three-decade Troubles.

"It took almost from 1976/77 to 1994 before there was the first cessation," he said, of the 1994 ceasefire.

"That's an awful long time and a lot of people were killed or injured and traumatised in between."

Seen by some as a peacemaker and by others as a terrorist, Adams said he did not mind what people think of him.

"If I thought about it very deeply, those people who detest me will continue to detest me. Those people who admire me will continue to admire me," he said.

Sinn Fein, which wants Northern Ireland to leave the United Kingdom and become part of the Republic of Ireland, is the second-biggest party in the Belfast assembly and the third in the Dublin parliament.

McDonald touched on her ambitious plans to "see Sinn Fein in government north and south" during her speech.

Her coronation represents a break from the party's links to the IRA, responsible for more than 1,700 deaths during the unrest, and a renewed focus on social issues.

McDonald became a member of the European Parliament in 2004. She was appointed Sinn Fein's deputy leader in 2009 and has represented central Dublin in the Irish parliament since 2011.Updated | Twitter has suspended the account of alt-right GOP candidate Paul Nehlen after he was accused of racism for a tweet about Meghan Markle, fiancee of British royal Prince Harry.

Nehlen, who is seeking to unseat House Speaker Paul Ryan in Wisconsins November primaries, has not spoken out about the suspension.

DOiAh0DUMAAwBSi

@pehlen

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In the tweet, he superimposed a picture on Markles image of the reconstructed appearance of Cheddar Man, an ancient Briton who experts now believe was dark skinned after conducting DNA tests on his 9,000-year-old remains.

A Twitter spokesperson told Newsweek on Monday morning that "while we normally do not comment on individual accounts, I can confirm that we have permanently suspended this account for repeated violations of our terms of service."

In recent months, Twitter has removed accounts that have spread racist or abusive messages as it seeks to make the platform more user friendly.

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In a series of postings on his Facebook account late Sunday under the #ShallNotCensor hashtag, Nehlen seemed to allude to the suspension. One image shows a dam with the word censorship and the Star of David symbol on it. Newsweek has contacted Nehlen for comment on the suspension.

On Sunday, he defended the Markle posting, claiming he was protesting claims that whites never existed.

Publishing an article disappearing whites or dispossessing whites of their homelands is wrong; made worse when claiming science to prove whites never existed, he tweeted before the suspension. I made a joke of it. Its not a laughing matter, so I chose to laugh about it.

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Nehlen has been described by the Southern Poverty Law Center as a defiant mouthpiece for the racist 'alt-right,' and in January was suspended from Twitter for a week for violating rules banning anti-Semitic content.

Story continues

The ban came after he published a Jewish media list of reporters at news organizations with Stars of David superimposed on their pictures.

In a January appearance on the radio show of former KKK Grand Wizard David Duke, Nehlen said his expulsion from the right-wing populist Breitbart website reveals to me that, in fact, Jews control the media.

President Donald Trump has previously praised Nehlen for his support.

This story was updated on February 12 to include a statement from Twitter on Nehlen's suspension.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekJamie Anderson won her second consecutive Olympic gold medal in womens slopestyle. (Getty)

PYEONGCHANG, South Korea  American Jamie Anderson won her second consecutive Olympic gold in slopestyle snowboarding, and the United States second in two days on Monday, braving perilous conditions at Phoenix Snow Park that sent scores of her competitors crashing their runs.

The 27-year-old Anderson, who won the initial slopestyle event at the 2014 Sochi Games, spent the past four years adding a double-cork 1080 to her repertoire, and the twice-flipping jump separated her from silver medalist Laurie Blouin of Canada and bronze-winning Enni Rukajarvi of Finland.

Anderson posted an 83.00 on her first run then watched as none of her competitors came close to matching. Her victory already secured by her second and final run, Anderson celebrated at the top of the hill, cruised to the bottom and draped an American flag over her shoulders.

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Andersons gold is the second of the PyeongChang Games and comes on the heels of 17-year-old Red Gerards win in the mens event Sunday. She has long been considered the best female slopestyle rider in the world, with five X Games gold medals, including one this year.

Among her peers, Anderson is best known as a fun-loving free spirit  a bit of a hippie from Tahoe as a friend once described. Now shes got another title: two-time Olympic gold medalist.

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Protesters demonstrate outside the Pennsylvania Capitol in Harrisburg in December 2016. (Photo: Mark Makela via Getty Images)

Congratulations of a cynical sort are in order for Republican Pennsylvania state Rep. Cris Dush, who has accomplished something notable. By urging his fellow GOP legislators to impeach five Pennsylvania Supreme Court justices who recently ordered the states congressional districts to be redrawn, he has proven that, even one year into the presidency of Donald Trump, an elected official can still shock us with their contempt for the rule of law, judicial independence and other core principles of our constitutional form of government.

Many things have contributed to our intensely polarized political culture, including the president himself and his cheerleaders in right-wing media who share and spread his disregard for the truth. But surely, hyper-partisan redistricting is as significant a culprit as any.

Of all the states where this has occurred, Pennsylvanias is among the worst, with one torturously drawn district described as Goofy kicking Donald Duck. Voters in the state are closely divided: theres a Democratic governor, and voters went for Trump by the tiniest of margins. But as ThinkProgress has noted, the states congressional maps enabled the GOP to win 13 of the states 18 congressional districts even in years when Democrats won the statewide popular vote. At the state level, more than two-thirds of the Senate seats are held by Republicans.

The current gerrymandered districts have faced multiple challenges in federal and state courts. On Jan. 22, a 5-2 majority of the state Supreme Court overturned the current lines. The court ordered that new lines be drawn in time for the 2018 elections. The Court backed its ruling with a request for data that would allow the court to draw new and fairer lines if the state legislature failed to do so. The leader of the state Senates Republicans told the court, essentially, to get lost.

Meanwhile, Republican leaders asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene, a request that was turned down by Justice Samuel Alito, among the most conservative justices on the court. The very next day, Rep. Dush began his effort to build support among his colleagues for impeaching the five justices who ruled against them.

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How could you not be shocked?

Granted, this was not the first time in recent months that I saw a news headline, gasped, and had to do a bit of quick research to make sure I was not reading from a parody site. It has been a hard year for lovers of the Constitution, and for the principles that make it sacred to so many of us.

The president regularly attacks the free media and calls for changes that would give him legal power to silence his critics. During his campaign, he notoriously defamed a U.S.-born federal judge as untrustworthy given his Mexican ancestry. And Trump has openly admired politicians in countries like China and Turkey who have strengthened their own power by undermining democratic institutions, including the courts.

Indeed, its hard to imagine such a brazen attack on the rule of law as were seeing in Pennsylvania would have happened without the steady assault on checks and balances by Trump and his supporters. And they are building on a much longer campaign against the federal judiciary by conservative evangelicals  Trumps most unwavering supporters  who have spent more than 60 years denouncing federal court rulings on school desegregation, separation of church and state, and, more recently, equality for LGBTQ Americans.

Last fall, Alabama Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore addressed a luncheon at the Values Voter Summit, the biggest annual political gathering for the Religious Right. He called on Congress to impeach U.S. Supreme Court justices who recognized that the constitutional principle of equal treatment under the law protects the right of same-sex couples to be legally married. Trump and the Republican National Committee both backed Moore.

Americans have long relied on the courts to uphold their constitutional and civil rights; it is an essential part of the checks and balances our nations founders built into our form of government. Politicians who want to purge courts of judges who dont fall in line with the party in power should be clearly named as threats to the democratic values and institutions that keep our society free.

Khizr Khan serves on the board of directors at People For the American Way.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Sydney (AFP) - Australia is making some progress in improving health and education among its indigenous population, an annual report said Monday, but it is still missing most targets to reduce Aboriginal disadvantage a decade after launching a major campaign.

The 10th "Closing the Gap" study found authorities were on track to meet just three out of seven targets to help health, education and employment outcomes among Aborigines catch up with the non-indigenous population.

Efforts were showing results in areas such as reducing Aboriginal child mortality and improving rates of high school qualifications.

But four other areas including boosting indigenous employment and life expectancy were falling behind.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said results were improving, after Australia had been on track to meet just one target the year before.

"Three of the seven targets are on track this year, giving us the most promising result since 2011," he told parliament.

"The last decade has given us a richer understanding about what works and what does not," he said, adding the most valuable lesson had come from working more closely with indigenous people.

Aborigines, who make up about three percent of the total national population of 25 million, are among the most disadvantaged Australians.

Monday's report -- marking a decade since former prime minister Kevin Rudd made a historic apology to Aboriginal people for centuries of injustice -- showed the target to halve the gap in child mortality with non-indigenous Australians by 2018 was on track to be met.

The mortality rate for indigenous children under four years old has fallen from 217 per 100,000 in 1998 to 145 per 100,000 in 2016, but it is still far higher than the rest of the population.

There was also progress in the aim to have 95 percent of all indigenous four-year-olds enrolled in early childhood education by 2025, and on improving the number of Aboriginals who finish high school by 2020 with a recognised qualification.

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But overall school attendance goals were not being met and nor was the proportion of indigenous children achieving national minimum standards in reading and numeracy.

Indigenous employment was also falling, while raising life expectancy levels remained a challenge.

Rudd, who launched what has become a bipartisan strategy to close the gap on indigenous disadvantage, said it was critical to maintain "political commitment, policy effort and funding support" to better Aboriginal lives.

"With strong political leadership, prepared to make a difference, with policy consistency and creativity, and with funding resolve, we can build an Australia where the First Australians are not simply an integral part of our national identity," he said Monday.

"But (they) are full and equal partners in the charting of our national future as well."3 Britons killed in Grand Canyon copter crash named

Three British tourists killed in a helicopter crash in the Grand Canyon have been named by US police.

Becky Dobson, 27, Jason Hill, 32, and Stuart Hill, 30, died in Saturday's crash, the Hualapai Police said.

Three other Britons and the pilot were injured when the helicopter, on a tour of the canyon, came down at about 17:20 local time (00:20 GMT) in Arizona.

It is not clear what caused the crash and witnesses say rescue efforts have been hampered by high winds.

Images show flames and thick smoke rising from the boulder-strewn crash site.

Witnesses told local reporters they had seen survivors running away from the crash site and shouting.

Police said Britons Ellie Milward, 29, Jonathan Udall, 32, and Jennifer Barham, 39, were injured in the crash, along with pilot Scott Booth, 42.

They were rescued at 02:00 local time on Sunday and flown to University Medical Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, a statement said.

The youngest of the victims, Ms Dobson, worked as a veterinary receptionist for Vets 4 Pets in Worthing, West Sussex.

In her profile on the practice's website, she described her love for animals, as well as her dream of becoming a veterinary nurse.

"I also love to travel the world and explore what is out there beyond good old Worthing," she said.

The practice paid tribute to Ms Dobson, saying: "We were all devastated to learn of Becky's loss in this tragic accident.

"She will be greatly missed by all her colleagues in the practice and by our clients. Our thoughts are with Becky's family and friends at this very difficult time."

Gabby Hart, a local news reporter for the station KSNV, said it had taken more than eight hours for the survivors to be removed from the site because of the terrain and high winds.

She told BBC Radio 5 Live: "We are told by witnesses and also by rescuers that people trying to help once they saw this accident happen, they couldn't get down to the helicopter quick enough.

"They [the survivors] had to receive care there on site until emergency crews were able to remove them from the scene."

The chief of the local Hualapai Police, Francis Bradley, called the incident "very tragic".

He added: "Yesterday, we were hampered by severe weather conditions [and] we had gusts up to 50mph [80kmph]." He said the terrain around the crash site was also "extremely rugged".

In a statement, Brenda Halvorson, the chief executive of the helicopter company involved - Papillon Airways - said the company extended its heartfelt sympathy to the families of the dead and injured.

On its website, Papillon calls itself "the world's largest aerial sightseeing company" and says it flies more than 600,000 people a year.

The Grand Canyon, which is more than 1.6km (one mile) deep, is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the US.

A UK Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on 10 February, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services."Former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama continue to inspire Americans beyond their time in the White House, and their official portraits are no exception. Standing onstage at the Smithsonians National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., on Monday morning, the couple watched as their official portraits were unveiled. And while some on Twitter said the paintings inspired a sense of hope, Barack couldnt help but notice his wifes hotness.

Side by side, the portraits of Barack and Michelle painted by Kehinde Wiley and Amy Sherald, respectively  each selected by his and her subject  were uncovered in front of an awestruck audience, before the Obamas and the artists took the podium to speak about the art. The collaborative work that went into each of the paintings was revealed in the sentiments of all of the speakers. But the most relatable expression of gratitude came from Barack himself.

Amy, I want to thank you for so spectacularly capturing the grace and beauty and intelligence and charm and hotness of the woman I love, Barack said with a chuckle, which incited quite the reaction on social media.

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Beyond Baracks charismatic remark, however, are the most important recognitions of how historic these portraits are, and what theyll mean to Americas youth. Michelle took to her own Instagram after the ceremony to share her gratitude for being recognized in such a remarkable way.

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This is all a little bit overwhelming, she wrote, especially when I think about all of the young people who will visit the National Portrait Gallery and see this, including so many young girls and young girls of color who dont often see their images displayed in beautiful and iconic ways. I am so proud to help make that kind of history. And people on Twitter couldnt agree more.

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All in all, the historical context of each portrait is important  as are the personal touches on the paintings. While Wiley paid homage to the former presidents origins with each of the flowers in the works background, Sherald collaborated with designer Michelle Smith of Milly to portray the former first lady in one of the brands gowns.

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The team figure skating event at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea, was historic at almost every level.

While Team USAs Mirai Nagasu and Adam Rippon made headlines Nagasu for becoming the first American woman to land a triple axel at the Olympics, Rippon for landing the first medal for a red, white and blue LGBT athlete  it was a Canadian who left the most lasting mark on the ice.

Canadas Eric Radford and Meagan Duhamel compete in team figure skating at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang. (AP)

Eric Radford became the first openly gay Olympic champion in the history of the Winter Games, by virtue of his role among Canadas gold medalists in team figure skating. He and partner Meagan Duhamel took the top spot in the pairs free skate program with their show-stopping routine set to Adeles Hometown Glory.

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Radford joined Australian diver Matthew Mitcham as the only openly gay Olympic champions to date. Mitcham earned gold in the 10-meter platform at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

The 33-year-old Radford, who hails from tiny Balmertown, Ontario, celebrated his success with Rippon after the two received their respective medals.

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This isnt the first Olympic medal for Radford. He took home a silver from the 2014 Sochi Games for his role on Canadas second-place team figure skating squad. About 10 months later, Radford came out publicly as gay in an interview with Outsports Cyd Zeigler.

Hes one of 14 openly gay athletes competing in PyeongChang, but thanks to his superb skating in South Korea, hes the only one from that group who can claim to be the first with winter gold.

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 Polish luger loses protective visor, makes run anywayJerusalem (AFP) - A confrontation at the weekend in Syria has turned up the heat between arch-foes Israel and Iran, but neither side seems to want a war for now, analysts said.

Israel carried out major air raids in neighbouring Syria on Saturday, including against what it described as Iranian targets in the country.

It was the first time Israel publicly acknowledged hitting Iranian targets in Syria since the 2011 start of the civil war there.

The strikes came after what Israel said was an incursion by an Iranian drone into its airspace and the shooting down of one of its F16s -- believed to be the first loss of an Israeli jet in combat since 1982.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke Sunday of having inflicted a "heavy blow" to Iranian and Syrian forces, and Israel's military says a preliminary assessment shows around half of Syria's air defences were taken out.

Iranian media close to the leadership in Tehran has focused on the shooting down of the Israeli warplane by Syrian air defences, with one paper declaring it "the end of secure skies for the Zionist regime in Syria".

Tensions between the two enemies over Syria had been building for some time, with at least three separate interests at work, several analysts say.

Israel does not want Iran, which is supporting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime, to entrench itself militarily next door. Iran seems determined to remain there.

Syria, meanwhile, feels it now has the upper hand in the civil war and is more emboldened to stop Israeli air raids inside the country, analysts say.

Assad is also supported by Russia and Lebanese Shiite group Hezbollah.

Israel acknowledges carrying out dozens of air strikes inside Syria to stop what it says are advanced arms deliveries to Hezbollah, with whom it fought a 2006 war.

- 'One miscalculation away' -

Even before the weekend strikes, the International Crisis Group think tank warned Iran's activities in Syria were fuelling Israeli fears of Iranian bases on its borders.

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"A broader war could be one miscalculation away," it wrote in a report released Thursday.

ICG senior analyst Ofer Zalzberg told AFP following the latest confrontation that it increased the chances of war over the longer term.

"We've moved a step closer," he said. "Not because of the incident itself necessarily but because we are seeing that the parties are now taking more assertive stances."

Mujtaba Mousavi, a political analyst in Tehran, said Syria's heavy anti-aircraft fire that brought down the Israeli plane signalled a "shift in the strategy of Syria and its allies".

"Iran will not step back and will not leave Syria as it is an important geostrategic ally after years of fighting and paying the price for saving it," he said.

"Israel and the United States are trying to prevent or limit Iran's presence in post-war Syria."

Israel says Saturday's incident began when an Iranian drone entered its airspace. Iran denies the Israeli version.

According to the Jewish state, an Israeli helicopter shot down the drone inside Israel, north of the city of Beit Shean.

Eight Israeli warplanes then carried out a retaliatory raid on "Iranian control systems in Syria" which had been flying the pilotless aircraft, the Israeli army said.

It said those aircraft came under heavy Syrian anti-aircraft fire and the F16 was hit, crashing in northern Israel's Jezreel valley. Both pilots survived, though one was seriously wounded.

The air force then launched a second wave of "large-scale" strikes, including against "four Iranian targets that are part of Iran's military establishment in Syria", an Israeli military statement said.

Six people were killed in the strikes, including four non-Syrians fighting with the regime and two Syrian soldiers, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor.

- 'The worst timing' -

Sima Shine, formerly deputy director general for Iran at the Israeli ministry of strategic affairs, said the chain of events suggested Iranian military personnel in Syria may not have coordinated the drone operation with the political leadership in Tehran.

"From the political point of view of Iran, I think it was the worst timing," she said, citing domestic economic and social protests, as well as Tehran's diplomatic efforts to preserve a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

She said she believed it likely the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps had decided, either in its Tehran headquarters or at its mission in Syria, "that this was the operational best time for them".

She said further such incidents were likely, but not full-out conflict.

"For the time being both sides will restrain their responses and there will not be an escalation in the very near future," she added.

The ICG's Zalzberg agreed there was little taste for war.

"I think that this incident is likely to be contained," he said. "In general the parties are not looking for a war."

But other commentators noted that when heavily armed neighbours engage in brinksmanship, it's easy to step over the brink.

"Most of the wars in the Middle East have been the result of unintended developments," columnist Nahum Barnea wrote in Israeli paper Yediot Aharanot.

"A game of chicken gone wrong, a terror attack that was too succesful, the pressure of public opinion."Its one of the most important questions of the 21st century: Will climate change provide the extra spark that pushes two otherwise peaceful nations into war?

In the past half-decade, a growing body of researchspanning economics, political science, and ancient and modern historyhas argued that it can and will. Historians have found temperature or rainfall change implicated in the fall of Rome and the many wars of the 17th century. A team of economists at UC Berkeley and Stanford University have gone further, arguing that an empirical connection between violence and climate change persists across 12,000 years of human history.

Meanwhile, high-profile scientists and powerful politicians have endorsed the idea that global warming helped push Syria into civil war. Climate change did not cause the conflicts we see around the world, Barack Obama said in 2015, but drought and crop failures and high food prices helped fuel the early unrest in Syria. The next year, Bernie Sanders declared that climate change is directly related to the growth of terrorism.

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If you live on a planet expecting changes to temperature or rainfall in the coming decadeswhich will come faster and stronger than the many natural climate changes of the pastits all a bit worrying. So a paper published Monday in Nature Climate Change might seem like a nice respite. After undertaking a large-scale analysis of more than 100 papers published on the topic, the article argues that the connections between climate change and war arent as strong as they seemthat the entire literature overstates the links between both phenomena.

Phew, you might think, maybe things arent so bad.

Except thatto hear scientists who study the issue tell itthe paper does not make its own case as strongly as it may seem at first. I cant see what the authors are trying to accomplish with this article, says Elizabeth Chalecki, a political scientist at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

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The paper arrives into a field deeply polarized between researchers who endorse a link between climate change and violence and those who reject one. For scholars who approve of the link, the paper doesnt prove its point or even say much of anything new. And while researchers who rebuff the link are more charitable to the paper, they also do not think it throws the fields most famous studies into questionbecause they already questioned the veracity of that work.

Some may read this paper as saying that theres lots of literature that says climate change causes conflict, and that this literature is based on sampling errors, says Jan Selby, a professor of international relations at the University of Sussex. But even before this paper, there was huge disagreement about what links could be made between climate change and conflict. And irrespective of the question of sampling error, I think the evidence in many of those papers is really weak.

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First, though, to the paper itself. The authors attempt a large-scale analysis of the entire field of conflict and climate-change research. To do this, they searched an enormous academic database for certain keywordslike climate, war, weather, and unrestthen pruned the thousands of articles that they found down to a slim 124 that substantively addressed the connection between the two topics. Then, they analyzed the resulting body of papers for the names of certain countries and regions.

After running this analysis, the authors conclude that the entire field is biased in two ways: toward countries that are easy for English-speaking researchers to access, like Kenya and Nigeria; and toward countries where conflict has already erupted, like Syria and Sudan. They also say that the literature focuses too much on Africa, ignoring vulnerable countries in Asia and South America.

The countries that were mentioned most in the climate-conflict literature included Kenya, Sudan, Egypt, India, Iraq, and Israel and the Palestinian territories. (Though even the two most-mentioned countries, Kenya and Sudan, only appeared in 8.8 percent of all papers.)

That list shares very little overlap with a list of countries that should theoretically be the most vulnerable to climate change, which includes Rwanda, Honduras, Haiti, Myanmar, and the tiny Pacific island nation of Kiribati. But it is quite similar to a list of the countries that have suffered the most combat-related deaths in the last quarter-century.

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In the Climate-Conflict Literature, the Most-Mentioned Countries Are Also the Most Recently Violent

At left, the top countries that have been mentioned in the conflict-climate literature; at right, the countries that had the most battle-related deaths from 1989 to 2015. Countries that appear twice are in bold text. (Adams et al. / Nature Climate Change)

If we only look at places where violence is, can we learn anything about peaceful adaptation to climate change? And if we only look at those places where there is violence, do we tend to see a link because we are only focusing on the places where there is violence in the first place? asked Tobias Ide, a coauthor of the paper and a peace and conflict researcher at the Georg Eckert Institute for International Textbook Research.

He believes the study throws both the quantitative and qualitative research on the question into doubt. The qualitative research suffers from the streetlight effect, an overreliance on English-speaking former colonies in Africa where it is easier to do research, he says. (The streetlight effect refers to only looking for your keysor anything elsewhere its easiest to see in the dark.) Quantitative research, he says, is ailed by sampling on the dependent variable: that is, only studying war in places where there is already war.

Ide and many other researchers worry that such research will eventually harm the people that live in the places that are being studied. In Sudan, Kenya, Syria, people say climate change is causing conflict, and that it will cause more conflict in the future because of droughts and stuff, Ide said. This scares investors away. People dont want to invest there anymore because theyre scared these places are biased, or immature, or barbaric.

Ide also fretted that this will encourage Western philanthropists or militaries to unseat local power in these countries, in effect saying, You cant do it on your own, so we have to move in and manage your resources.

Im not saying that everyone who focuses on climate change in Syria or Kenya is automatically promoting colonial behavior, but if theres a connective frame it might well facilitate this kind of thinking, he told me.

Ide demurred when I asked where this kind of climate-science-driven colonialism has already happened. If it comes to proving that a certain academic framing had an influence on peoples mind-set, or eventually even actions or policies, thats really hard to pin down or prove empirically. People dont just read academic studiesthey watch television, they listen to peers, he said. But he also said that the push to fortify southern Europe and adopt much more regressive immigration policies was driven, in part, by the climate literature.

From what Ive heard from colleagues working on the issue, the idea that climate change is leading to conflict and migration in the Middle Eastthat is used by some conservatives and lobbyists and politicians in Brussels to inform stricter border controls in the south of the European Union, like not saving [refugees] in the Mediterranean Sea, he told me. Its still anecdotal evidence, but its there.

His paper fits into a broader pattern of researchersespecially those in Europerejecting links between global warming and war. Selby, the Sussex professor, and a number of his colleagues published a blistering article last year attacking the idea that a climate-addled drought in any way pushed Syria into war. It argued that a prewar droughtwhich supposedly prompted the countrys economic chaoswas not as historically anomalous as claimed; and that the farmers who fled that drought had little involvement in the run-up to the war itself. He called the new article a decent paper without obvious flaws.

But I guess thats probably to some extent because it confirms suspicions that I have anyway, he said. He told me that there was no consensus in the quantitative literature on whether climate change exacerbates conflict. Some people claim there is a consensus, but they only do so by ignoring a huge amount of literature and standing on what I think are spurious methodological grounds.

He said that conflict-climate scholars should study climate-vulnerable places where there has been no conflict as well as war zones. If you go study in Costa Rica or Greenland, for example, then you will find a different correlation. And it will make the case as well.

I dont think theres anything novel or particularly unusual in [the new paper], says Simon Dalby, a professor of politics and climate change at the Balsillie School of International Affairs. The focus on AfricaAfrica, Africa, Africa, Africahas been noted for years by those of us tracking this. And the street lighting point is well taken. Kenya is easier to get into for lots of folks doing the research, who are mostly white-skinned Northerners who speak English, he says.

Dalby takes something of a middle ground on the dispute. Going back to the 1990s, he says, a body of literature has made it clear that environmental change mightin some complicated series of circumstanceslead to conflict, but it was the intervening circumstances that really mattered.

Another researcher who has harped on the focus on Africa is Solomon Hsiang, an economist and professor of public policy at UC Berkeley. In 2013, he and his colleagues noted the preponderance of Africa-focused research in a now-famous study that argued there was an empirical link between conflict and climate change. For every change of a standard deviation in temperature or rainfall, he and his colleagues found that the chance of violent conflict between groups rose by 14 percent.

There is nothing really surprising or new in this study, he said in an email. Studying conflict-prone regions isnt a problem, its what you would expect. Nobody is studying Ebola outbreaks by studying why Ebola is not breaking out in cafes in Sydney today, we study what happened in West Africa when there was an actual event.

Hsiang also lambasted the articles method of analyzing the literature as a whole to claim that researchers [overstate] the links between conflict and climate change.

The biggest issue with the study is that they strongly insinuate there is some kind of bias boogeyman in the research field without actually showing that anybody else who came before made an error or demonstrating how their idea could affect findings in the field, he told me. They are vague and imprecise about their critique of prior work, without identifying which actual findings they are overturning or replicating anybodys work. Instead, they simply allude to an aroma of a problem in the research field, which sows doubt without providing actual evidence.

The article itself appears to back off its claims by the end of the paper, saying that its findings are not intended to discredit any one researcher or study. We are not saying that the correlations are invalid or invaluable, nor are we accusing any studies or authors who have focused on specific regions, Ide told me. But the paper nonetheless claims that the conflict-climate link is overstated.

Chalecki, the University of Nebraska political scientist, also finds the papers focus odd. It makes sense to study places where there is war, she says: Violence isnt an inherent condition in domestic politics or international politics. We dont need to explain peace. Its conflict, its war, that we need to explain.

She also wonders if the streetlight effect that preoccupied the authors was simply a tendency of academia, since authors tend to cite prior work on a topic. Academics focus on war zones because it matters how the war starts, she says. In terms of policy-relevant research, I dont think there is anything in this article that might help a country or region offset climate change, she says. If Im talking to an undersecretary of defense, or a policy maker, theyre gonna look at this [paper] and say ... what does this even mean?

I thought it was a weird article, says Greg Petrow, another political scientist at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, who specializes in quantitative methods. He says the paperwhich focuses on sampling bias in the fieldsuffered from sampling bias itself.

Theyre not really directly assessing what they want to be assessing. Theyre trying to assess sampling bias, but theyre looking at the sampling as a dependent variable. Theyre actually looking at publication bias as an independent variable, he says. There are papers that study publication bias, he added, but they dont cite or refer to them.

For Ides part, the paper shows how much more research on the topic can still be done. I was a bit surprised that even within American studies, theres not really a focus on Latin America, basically, he said. You can be concerned about Iraq, Syria, or India because of geopolitical relevancebut why not look for [climate-related conflict] in Mexico, or Honduras, or Brazil? Because that would have much sharper consequences for the United States.

And Dalby, the political scientist, tried to take a broader view of the disputeand the climatic upheaval that could come later this century. Looking for these empirical connections is all very well and good, he told me, but if youre looking for the causes of climate change, its usthe overconsuming, fossil-fuel-burning North and West. If you want to get serious about climate change, worrying about the small-scale details of conflicts in Africa is missing the point. Its us.

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This article was originally published on The Atlantic.A Congressional staff member delivers copies of US President Donald Trump's Fiscal Year 2019 Government Budget: SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images

US President Donald Trumps budget includes the elimination or steep cuts to several environmental programmes.

This is despite a deal made in Congress last week which added hundreds of billions of dollars in new, general funding to the federal budget.

Congress must still approve it but the Presidents proposed budget reflects many of the priorities outlined in the first proposal submitted last April, called the skinny budget, which focused heavily on military spending.

The programmes that could be cut are part of the administrations strategy to refocus the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on core activities and push much of that work to the state and local level but also includes eliminating related programmes in other agencies.

The Climate Change Research and Partnership, Indoor Air and Radon, the Marine Pollution and National Estuary, Beaches, and Environmental Education programmes could all be terminated pending Congressional approval.

The budget for the EPA was expected to be cut by close to 31 per cent per the "skinny budget" - this proposal outlined a 34 per cent or $2.8bn cut.

But, members of both parties in Congress had expressed strong opposition to de-funding programmes that dealt with hazardous materials, flood insurance, and Superfund sites.

The President's budget still proposed deep cuts to funding for cleaning up the country's most polluted sites and responding to environmental emergencies, oil spills and natural disasters, even as EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt said that the Superfund programme is one of his top priorities.

The proposed allocation is only $762 million for the Hazardous Substance Superfund Account, which is a reduction of nearly 30 per cent.

Despite the cut, the White House said the administration planned to "accelerate" site cleanups by bringing "more private funding to the table for redevelopment."

The agency's Superfund programme came into the spotlight in the wake of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, which hit Texas and Florida quite hard.

Story continues

An EPA official told the newspaper that the buyouts were designed to protect staff jobs in disaster response, however when the Associated Press visited a Superfund site in Houston after Hurricane Harvey, no staff were there for cleanup.

The EPA said the sites were inaccessible to its response team and issued a press release attacking the Associated Press reporter who wrote the story.

However, environmental and specifically climate change-related research is not strictly limited to the EPA.

At the Department of Energy (DOE), the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy's budget would be slashed and the Advanced Research Projects Agency (Arpa-E) is also on the chopping block.

Arpa-Es mandate, according to its website, is to advance high-potential, high-impact energy technologies that are too early for private-sector investment. Arpa-E awardees are unique because they are developing entirely new ways to generate, store, and use energy.

This would likely have a negative impact in funding renewable energy projects research despite the administrations apparent push to include the private sector more in large-scale programmes.

The proposed cuts follow suit with the administration overturning what were seen as gains by environmental advocates under former President Barack Obama; starting the withdrawal process from the Paris Agreement on climate change and repealing the Clean Power Plan (CPP), chief among them.

The Paris accord was signed by nearly 200 countries in an effort to curb carbon emissions and contain global warming to 2 C.

Power plants account for almost 40 per cent of the countrys emissions - greater than every car, truck, and plane combined - and if left in place, the CPP would have reduced power plants carbon emissions by 2030 by a third of what they were in 2005.

Stan Collender, a budget expert and public policy professor at Georgetown University, told E&E News that the president's budget does not need to be enacted, it just needs to be proposed," adding that he does not expect the steepest cuts to be approved by Congress.The wife of President Trumps eldest child has been rushed to a Manhattan hospital after opening an envelope containing white powder, according to reports.

Vanessa Trump, the wife of Donald Trump Jr., was opening a letter addressed to her husband at the couples apartment Monday morning when she made the discovery.

The powder was later determined to be corn starch, police sources told the New York Post.

The FDNY responded to the scene. Vanessa Trump and two others received decontamination treatment by responding FDNY firefighters, ABC7 reported.

In a statement posted to Twitter later in the day, Donald Trump Jr. decried the act as "disturbing behavior."

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His sister, Ivanka Trump, added a tweet of her own, saying, "No one deserves to be frightened this way."

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The Secret Service is reportedly investigating.

Vanessa Trump married Trump Jr. in 2005. They have five children.

In March 2016, Trump Jr. was sent a white powder that was later determined to be safe. A month later, an envelope containing white powder was sent to Trump Tower.

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Related Articles:By Bart H. Meijer AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Dutch Foreign Minister Halbe Zijlstra admitted on Monday he had lied about hearing Russian President Vladimir Putin make comments about plans for a "greater Russia", unleashing a storm of criticism. "I told an untruth, it was unacceptable," he told reporters. Zijlstra, who is scheduled to meet his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov in Moscow in two days' time, said he had been "stupid" and regretted his behavior. While election campaigning two years ago, Zijlstra said that in 2006 he had been at Putin's dacha when he heard the Kremlin leader speak of plans for a "greater Russia" which would include some of Russia's neighbors. "I was tucked away back in the room, but I could clearly hear Putin's answer to the question about what he considered greater Russia," Zijlstra told a gathering in 2016 of his People's Party for Freedom and Democracy, which heads the new Dutch government. "He said this included Russia, Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic states, and, well, Kazakhstan would be 'nice to have'," he said in his speech, which was recorded on video. But on Monday he acknowledged he had never been at the meeting with Putin and had heard of the comments secondhand. "I wasn't present at the meeting in President Putin's dacha," the minister said in statement on Monday. "The discussion did take place and someone who was there told me what President Putin said about greater Russia." Zijlstra said he was prepared to discuss the matter with parliament, which has the power to dismiss him. His admission led opposition parties to demand his resignation, but the governing parties stood by him. Prime Minister Mark Rutte said Zijlstra had a made a "big mistake", but remained a credible member of the government. In a scathing editorial, the prominent daily business newspaper Het Financieele Dagblad called on the minister to step down. "Staying on would undermine the credibility of the Cabinet. Not only in criticizing Russia, but also in the campaign against fake news," it wrote. Zijlstra is to meet Russian minister Lavrov on Wednesday. Relations between the two countries have been poor since the downing of Malaysia Airlines MH17 over eastern Ukraine in July 2014, killing all 283 passengers and 15 crew. The airliner had been flying from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, and 196 of the victims were Dutch. Dutch authorities say it was brought down by a Russian-made Buk missile, fired from territory held by pro-Russia separatists, and hope to identify suspects to be put on trial in the Netherlands. It is not clear how far Russia will cooperate with a Dutch court. Moscow denies one of its rockets could have been used against the airliner. (Reporting by Bart Meijer; Editing by Andrew Roche)This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

When it comes to trolling at the Olympics, the Dutch are gold medal winners.

First a pair of Dutch speedskating fans had a laugh at U.S. president Donald Trumps expense.

Now theyre taking aim at American broadcaster Katie Couric after some incorrect assumptions she made about the country when it was introduced during the Opening Ceremony.

As the Netherlands entered the PyeongChang Olympic Stadium during Fridays parade of nations, Couric shared a theory on why the Dutch are so good on the oval.

Heres what she said:

It is probably not a news flash to tell you the Dutch are really, really good at speed skating. All but five of the 110 medals theyve won have been on the speed skating oval. Now, Why are they so good? you may be asking yourselves. Because skating is an important mode of transportation in a city like Amsterdam which sits at sea level. As you all know, it has lots of canals that can freeze in the winters. So, for as long as those canals have existed, the Dutch have skated on them to get from place to place, to race each other, and also to have fun.

Amsterdam residents do sometimes skate on canals when they freeze, but usually for fun and not for actual transportation. (AP Photo)

Speedskating is popular in the Netherlands and the Dutch dominate international competition, but frozen canals in Amsterdam are definitely not why. Yes, the Dutch can and do skate on the canals when the ice is thick enough, but the water doesnt freeze every winter. Its actually a rarity when they do.

Residents of the Netherlands and the Dutch diaspora humorously responded to Courics comment with some additional stereotypes that foreigners might have about the Dutch.

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In Courics defense, the Dutch sure did use a lot of pictures of them skating on canals to claim they never skate on canals, didnt they ?

As for why speed skating is actually popular in the Netherlands, Business Insider suggests it could be a simple feedback loop. The Netherlands is good at speed skating, which brings it to the attention of the best athletes in the country, leading them to pursue it. Thats a lot less fun than imagining Dutch people in 2018 skating to and from work (at the windmill or wooden shoes factory, naturally), but thats the price we all pay for truth.

The Dutch didnt like Katie Courics comments about speedskating (Getty Images)

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CAIRO (Reuters) - Sixteen militants were killed and four arrested in a major security operation, Egypt's military said on Sunday, the first casualties in a campaign aimed at crushing insurgents behind a string of attacks. Sixty-six targets, arms depots, SUVs and motor-bikes used by militants were destroyed in raids focused mainly in Sinai, but also covering the Nile Delta and the western desert, the army added in a statement carried on state TV. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who is seeking re-election in March, ordered the armed forces in November to defeat militants within three months after an attack on a mosque killed more than 300 people, the deadliest such incident in the Arab world's most populous country. Islamist insurgents have been targeting security forces since 2013 when the army, then led by Sisi as army chief, ousted President Mohamed Mursi of the Muslim Brotherhood following mass protests against his rule. The security operation launched on Friday involves troops from the Egyptian air force, navy and army as well as the police and border guards. "The air force targeted and destroyed 66 targets used by terrorist elements to hide from air and artillery attacks, and to escape from their bases during raids," the statement said. A total of 16 militants were killed, it said, but gave no further details. Medical sources said Ismailia General Hospital early on Sunday received the bodies of 10 militants killed in Sinai and that DNA samples were taken to identify them. The military statement also said forces involved in the operation found a media centre with computers, communication equipment and books and documents related to jihadi ideology. Security forces also uncovered and destroyed six farms used to grow banned narcotics, the statement said. (Reporting by Mohamed El-Sherif and Yousri Mohamed; Editing by Richard Pullin and Paul Tait)Pressure on to ensure safe return of Rohingyas

Many Rohingya refugees, who fled violence in Myanmar, live in overcrowded makeshift camps in Cox\'s Bazar. UNHCR Photo

Kazi Zahidul Hasan :

While the bilateral pressure is on, the Bangladesh government simultaneously continuing its efforts in multilateral fronts for creating safe and conducive environment in Rakhine State of Myanmar for sustainable return of Rohingya refugees and stop recurrence of their influx.

The planned repatriation of Rohingya refugees back to Myanmar was scheduled to begin on January 23. But it has been postponed as many Rohingyas have expressed worries saying they do not feel safe returning home due to prevailing situation in Rakhine.

The UN and global community also expressed concern over the safety of the Rohingyas if they return to their homeland.

"Our government is working with Myanmar and international community to ensure a safe and conducive environment in Rakhine. The repatriation process is being delayed due to growing concern over safety and security of Rohingyas to their homes," State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam told reporters at the Rohingya camp in Cox's Bazar.He said we are continuing our pressure on Myanmar along with international forums for the quick and safe return of the Rohingya refugees.

"Rohingyas would be sent back home after they want to go there voluntarily under a

favourable environment. An agreement has been signed to involve UNHCR in Rohingya repatriation," he added.

Since August last year about 700,000 Rohingyas have entered Bangladesh in the wake of a military-led campaign in Rakhine State what the UN termed as "ethnic cleansing". They poured into over-crowded camps in Cox's Bazar, bringing with them harrowing tales of rape, murder and torture at the hands of Myanmar's army or Buddhist mobs. "All procedures to send back Rohingyas is near to be completed," Mohammad Habibul Kabir Chowdhury, Head of Rohingya Cell at the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief told The New Nation yesterday.

He said the authorities have determined five transit camps for the repatriation of Rohingya refugees to their homeland in Myanmar. The Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioners (RRRC) office in Cox's Bazar has given the responsibilities of transit camp management and repatriation with the supervision of UNHCR.

Two camps will be set up at Nayapara and Ghundum and the kick off the repatriation will start from one of them.

"We have already signed a deal with the UN Refugee Agency on data exchange on Rohingya refugees. The list of Rohingyas on the basis of their families and the villagers in Myanmar has been completed. The original address in Rakhine is properly reflected in the family database. The list will be sent to the Myanmar authorities for verification. If the list is verified we will go for the repatriation," said Mohammad Habibul Kabir Chowdhury.

When asked, he said, the lists of those entitled and willing to return to their home to be sent to the Myanmar authorities. We want to assure the international community that only those wishing to go back to their homeland in Rakhine would be sent to Myanmar, and the process would involve the UN's refugee agency.

"As tension growing in Rohingya camps, information campaign would be launched to inform the refugees about the present development in Rakhine State to ensure the voluntary return," an official at RRRC told The New Nation, seeking anonymity.

He said some international and local media are spreading misinformation about the return arrangement causing tension in the Rohingya camps. 'We would develop a communication strategy for Rohingya on the safe and voluntary repatriation involving relevant stakeholders," he added.

The official further said extra police and Ansar members, along with five executive magistrates have been deployed in two police stations to maintain law and order in the camp area. The local administration has also issued notice under CRpc to restrict movement in and around the camps after 5:00pm.

Refugees have been banned from leaving the overcrowded camps. Police check posts and surveillance have been set up in key transit points to stop Rohingya from travelling to other parts of the country.

The law enforcers have so far sent 46,000 Rohingays to two camps in Cox's Bazar from different parts of the country.ISTANBUL (Reuters) - U.S. national security adviser H.R. McMaster held talks on Sunday in Istanbul with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan's spokesman, the White House said, amid persistent tensions between the NATO allies over Syria and other issues. Turkey is targeting the Syrian Kurdish militia YPG in a weeks-long air and ground operation in Syria's Afrin region. Turkey considers the YPG a terrorist group, but it is a key component of U.S.-backed forces battling Islamic State in Syria. Erdogan has promised to sweep the militia from Turkey's southern border, a move that could put Turkish troops in confrontation with U.S. forces on the ground in Syria. McMaster's talks with Erdogan's spokesman Ibrahim Kalin in Istanbul come days ahead of an expected visit to Turkey by U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. The two discussed the long-term strategic partnership between the United States and Turkey, the White House said in a statement. "They also exchanged views on American-Turkish relations as long-standing allies, their common strategic challenges, and regional developments," it said. "While discussing these issues, they addressed issues affecting bilateral relations in detail and explored ways to expand the joint fight against all forms of terrorism." The two men evaluated regional developments, factors that have damaged relations between the allies and developing ways of combating terrorism, a Turkish presidential source said, but provided no further details. Last week, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said he would tell Tillerson during his visit that the two countries must repair damaged mutual trust. No dates have yet been confirmed for the Tillerson visit. Relations have also been strained by Washington's failure to extradite a U.S.-based Muslim cleric blamed by Turkey for a failed coup attempt against Erdogan in 2016. Washington says Ankara has not provided enough evidence for the extradition. (Reporting by Murad Sezer in Istanbul, additional reporting by Doina Chiacu in Washington; Writing by Ali Kucukgocmen; Editing by Gareth Jones and Lisa Shumaker)Eric Trump has set the internet alight with what appears to be a new business.

On Friday, President Donald Trumps second son shared a snap of what looked to be the front cover of a new Trump magazine to Twitter:

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He captioned the photograph, which features an image of Trump International Hotel in Washington, with the hashtag #HotOffThePress.

Trump offered no more information on the publication, which promotes Trump properties on the cover. Its not clear when it will be available, how often it will be published, how many pages it contains or whether it will be sold on newsstands.

But Time noted it could be the latest attempt by the Trump family to enter the magazine industry. Its last title, Trump Magazine, was reportedly closed in 2009 following the global financial crisis, per the New York Post.

Unsurprisingly, people on Twitter had plenty to say about Eric Trumps new endeavor:

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Paris (AFP) - The EU should not "humiliate" Britain in Brexit negotiations, a French government spokesman said Monday, warning such an approach would strengthen anti-EU sentiment in the run-up to European elections next year.

"Our position is quite simple. There is no question of punishing anyone with regard to Brexit," spokesman Benjamin Griveaux told the Anglo-American Press Association of Paris.

Losing an EU member was "never good news and we should never humiliate or punish them", Griveaux said.

"That'd the worst thing that could happen and I think it would reinforce the anti-European sentiment in many countries where we have elections coming up in a year," he said, warning that eurosceptics could win a majority of seats in the European Parliament for the first time in 2019 elections.

Pro-Brexit British lawmakers last week reacted angrily to draft plans by the EU to sanction Britain if it breaks the rules of the post-Brexit transition period by curbing its access to the single market.

In its draft agreement for the March 2019-December 2020 transition phase, the EU said it should have the right "to suspend certain benefits" in terms of single market access in cases where Britain broke the transition rules but it would take too long to haul it before the European Court of Justice.

Senior Brexiteers in Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party lashed out at the plan, holding it up as proof that Brussels was bent on punishing Britain for its decision to leave -- allegations dismissed by Brussels.

Griveaux said a punitive approach was "not the right strategy in the medium- or long-term" but, echoing May, insisted that "Brexit means Brexit".

"We have to be firm. Any cherrypicking (by Britain) whereby 'we will exercise this freedom but not another' is out of the question."

Griveaux also urged unity in the face of any attempts by Britain to exploit differences between EU members to try to get a better deal.

"There cannot... be bilateral deals with different countries. The strength of the 27 is to have a single representative, Michel Barnier, who is negotiating for the 27," he said.

During a visit to Britain last month French President Emmanuel Macron spoke in favour of a special post-Brexit deal with the EU, which would go further than a regular trade agreement but fall short of full access to the single market.By Gabriela Baczynska BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union on Monday called on Turkey to avoid threats and "refrain from any actions that might damage good neighborly" ties after Cyprus, a member of the bloc, accused the Turkish military of obstructing a ship exploring for gas. Cyprus is one of several states, also including Israel and Lebanon, racing to tap gas deposits in the eastern Mediterranean. Greek Cypriots run Cyprus's internationally recognized government, while Turkish Cypriots have a breakaway state in the north - recognized only by Ankara - and say resources around the island belong to them too. Cyprus said on Sunday the Turkish military had obstructed a vessel contracted by Italian oil company Eni which was approaching an area to explore for natural gas. After speaking to the Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades, the chairman of EU leaders, Donald Tusk, said: "I call on Turkey to avoid threats or actions against any EU member and instead commit to good neighborly relations, peaceful dispute settlement and respect for territorial sovereignty." Turkey's foreign ministry, in a statement on Sunday, did not make any mention of obstructing the Eni ship but said the case was a unilateral move by Greek Cypriots that violated the sovereign rights of Turkish Cypriots. It said the Greek Cypriots were jeopardizing security and stability on the ethnically split island and in the region. A spokeswoman for the EU's executive European Commission echoed Tusks's line by telling journalists on Monday: "Turkey needs to commit unequivocally to neighborly relations and avoid any kind of source of friction, threat or action directed against a member state." "The EU also stresses the need to respect the sovereignty of member states over their territorial sea and airspace," she added. "PROVOCATIVE CONDUCT" On Monday Greece accused Turkey of violating international law and said its "provocative conduct" was inconsistent with that of a country seeking accession to the EU. "We call on Turkey to desist from further unlawful actions and to comply with its obligations stemming from international law," the foreign ministry in Athens said in a statement. Relations between the EU and Turkey have become strained by disagreements over democracy and human rights, especially since a large-scale crackdown in the wake of a failed Turkish coup in 2016. However, European countries still rely on Turkey as a NATO ally and as a brake to help reduce an influx of Syrian and other migrants and refugees into the bloc. Turkey's EU minister, Omer Celik, will join 28 foreign ministers of the bloc for talks in Bulgaria on Friday. Ankara is pushing to lift visa requirements for its citizens traveling to Europe. The EU is unwilling to grant Turks that concession now but, careful to avoid upsetting President Tayyip Erdogan too much, is due to commit more money for the large number of Syrian refugees living in Turkey. (Additional reporting by Samantha Koester in Brussels and; Karolina Tagaris in Athens, Writing by Gabriela Baczynska,; editing by Gareth Jones, William Maclean)Brussels (AFP) - The EU on Monday ordered Oxfam to explain itself over a 2011 prostitution scandal in Haiti, warning charities that the bloc would cut their funding if they breached ethical standards.

UK-based Oxfam has been left reeling by reports in the Times newspaper that senior staff hired young sex workers in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake which devastated the island.

The charity's chiefs have been summoned by the British government to explain their handling of the scandal amid accusations it covered up the episode.

The European Union, a major international aid donor which provided Oxfam with more than 25 million euros in funding in 2017, said Monday it took a "zero tolerance" approach to misconduct by NGO partners.

"We expect Oxfam to fully clarify the allegations with maximum transparency as a matter of urgency, and we're ready to review and, if needed, cease funding to any partner who is not living up to the required high ethical standards," spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic told reporters.

The EU provided Oxfam with 1.7 million euros ($2.0 million) in funding for work in Haiti in 2011, she said.

Oxfam, which employs around 5,000 staff and has 23,000 more volunteers, has announced new measures to tackle sexual abuse cases, though chief executive Mark Goldring has insisted there was no cover-up in 2011.

The charity is accused of failing to warn other aid agencies about the staff involved, which allowed them to get jobs among vulnerable people in other disaster areas.

Britain's Department for International Development has said it is reviewing its relationship with Oxfam, to which it gave nearly 32 million (36 million euros, $44 million) last year.If you saw artist Amy Sheralds portrait of former first lady Michelle Obama and thought, Tell me all the things about that gown, then youre in luck.

Sheralds portrait, unveiled on Monday at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, features the former FLOTUS in a white gown with striped accents and geometric designs.

Former U.S. first lady Michelle Obama and artist Amy Sherald unveil Obama's portrait during a ceremony at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery on Feb. 12, 2018. (Photo: Mark Wilson via Getty Images)

Obamas gown is a custom design by the brand Milly (a design house shes worn previously).

When Sherald spoke during the unveiling of her painting, she explained that the abstract pattern of the dress reminded her of the Dutch artist Piet Mondrians geometric paintings.

Millys design also resembles the inspired quilt masterpieces made by the women of Gees Bend, a small remote black community in Alabama where they compose quilts in geometries that transform clothes and fabric remnants into masterpieces, the artist said.

Michelle Smith, Millys co-founder and creative director, loosely based the dress design on this runway dress from the spring 2017 collection:

A model walks the runway during New York Fashion Week on Sept. 9, 2016. (Photo: Victor VIRGILE via Getty Images)

Millys president and CEO, Andrew Oshrin, told HuffPost that the dress is an exclusive for Obama, so, no, you cant just go buy it right now.

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Oshrin said both the former first lady and Smiths design were inspirational for our family.

Obama epitomizes elegance, sophistication, modernity, and inclusiveness, which are core values for our brand, Oshrin said. I could not be prouder of Michelle [Smith] and our brand, Milly for this honor.

Smith said in a statement to HuffPost that it was an absolute honor to work on Mrs. Obamas dress for her official presidential portrait.

I dressed Mrs. Obama on several occasions while she was in office, and am so grateful to create something that she will forever be remembered in by future generations, she said. The modern silhouette of the dress perfectly reflects her forward-thinking sensibility, and Im thrilled that I get to be a little part of what was such a ground-breaking an positive presidency.

Story continues

This article has been updated to include Michelle Smiths statement.

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Oct. 28, 2013 'Amanda Lucidon made this photograph of the First Lady as she participated in a filming for the Animal Planet Puppy Bowl on the South Lawn of the White House.' (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon) This official White House photograph is being made available only for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House. (Photo by Amanda Lucidon/The White House/Corbis via Getty Images)

March 5, 2014 'I love all the reflections in the mirrors of the First Lady and her staff in this photograph by Amanda Lucidon backstage at the Leading Women Defined Summit hosted by BET Networks in Miami, Florida.' (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon) This official White House photograph is being made available only for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House. (Photo by Amanda Lucidon/White House/Handout/The White House/Corbis via Getty Images)

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 16: In this handout photo provided by The White House, US First Lady Michelle Obama meets Prince Harry at Kensington Palace on June 16, 2015 in London, England. The US First Lady is travelling with her daughters, Malia and Sasha and her mother, Mrs. Marian Robinson, to continue a global tour promoting her 'Let Girls Learn Initiative'. The event at the school was to discuss how the UK and USA are working together to expand girl's education around the world. (Photo by Amanda Lucidon/The White House via Getty Images)

'March 23, 2014 'A great moment captured by Amanda Lucidon of the First Lady and daughters Sasha and Malia during their visit to the Great Wall of China.' (Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon) This official White House photograph is being made available only for publication by news organizations and/or for personal use printing by the subject(s) of the photograph. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House. (Photo by Amanda Lucidon/White House/Handout/The White House/Corbis via Getty Images)

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Gigi Hadid opens Prabal Gurungs Fall 2018 show. (Photo: Getty Images)

Theres been much hypothesizing about how New York Fashion Week would address the current #MeToo moment. Despite an event called the #MeToo fashion show  that was not on the official NYFW calendar and was not organized with #MeToo creator Tarana Burke  no designers have so boldly proclaimed their allegiance to the womens movement with pins or ribbons like they did exactly one year ago during the Fall 2017 runways.

That is, no one but Prabal Gurung, the American-Nepalese designer also known as the most woke man in fashion, who again seems to be doing the most to explicitly recognize progressive causes.

Sitting in the front row of Gurungs Fall 2018 ready-to-wear presentation on Sunday was a whos who of famous activists including Burke, Huma Abedin, Janet Mock, and Laverne Cox.

Janet Mock attends Prabal Gurung  Front Row  February 2018  New York Fashion Week: The Shows at Spring Studios on February 11, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Presley Ann/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

It means everything, Gurung tells Yahoo Lifestyle about having those influential attendees sit front row at his show. What it will signify, hopefully, is the idea of listening to these women, not just them, but women in general. As men, thats our first call of duty, to listen. Just to have them there fully circles everything I believe in about solidarity and female empowerment.

Backstage in hair and makeup, a model poses to show off her beauty look for the Prabal Gurung show in front of a backdrop of empowering messages. (Photo: Alexandra Mondalek)

At a time when only two or three dominos in the larger line of fashions alleged sexual harassers have toppled, Gurungs backstage set up reminded models to embrace their inner strength. Collages of empowering messages hung on a wall in front of which the models had their photos taken by an Amazon Echo Look for Gurungs collection look book.

Models walked the finale of Prabal Gurungs Fall 2018 show carrying white flowers, not dissimilar to the Times Up Grammy Awards 2018 initiative in which attendees wore white roses as a symbolic reminder of the movement. (Photo: Getty Images)

Another larger sign stood backstage echoing all those messages and alluded to the TIMES UP movement, reading, Your time is now. Additionally, The Model Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to protecting modelss safety, posted messages backstage alerting models of private changing areas if they preferred and provided an email address to contact with any questions or concerns.

The wall backstage at the Prabal Gurung show where models would pose for an Amazon Echo Look camera for Gurungs collection lookbook. (Photo: Alexandra Mondalek)

Its with Gurungs clothing  and the individuals wearing them on the runway  that the designer spreads his message of positivity and acceptance as well. For casting, Gurung, (along with designer Christian Siriano) has helped to normalize inclusivity such that its no longer surprising to see a curvy or transgender model wearing the clothes all women want to wear.

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As for the collection, it included 44 bold pink, purple, and red-orange looks. Inspiration for the palate and came from the Mosuo tribe of China and Indias activist Gulabi Gang, according to show notes, as seen through remixed traditional prints, fringe, and saris. The clothes are beautiful, if not a bit over-embellished at times. Yet that hardly matters when you consider but one thing: The woman wearing them look powerful  and shouldnt power radiate from the inside and outside?

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration.



For the first time in Champions League history, one nation will be providing five teams in the Round of 16.

In recent seasons, Premier League sides have not fared well in the latter stages of Europes premier competition, but this could be the campaign in which the hegemony of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich is finally broken.

Not only are Manchester City favourites to win the competition with the bookmakers, but Tottenham managed to finish above reigning champions Real Madrid in their group. Manchester United and Chelsea boast the pedigree required to progress, while Liverpool are a side designed to thrive on big nights in cup competitions.

It is this writers belief that all five English sides will be present in the draw for the quarter-finals.

Check out the video to see whyand be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments.Police said the spree took place at two separate houses on Saturday afternoon: Rex

Five people have been killed, including a gunman thought to have taken his own life, during a horrific shooting spree in Kentucky.

Police received an emergency call on Saturday afternoon reporting a shooting at a rural home near the small city of Paintsville, in the northeast of the state.

Officers found two people dead and began to search the area for the shooter, Johnson County Sheriff Dwayne Price said in the statement.

The sheriff added a second 911 call led deputies and police to an apartment in Paintsville, where three more people were found fatally shot, including the gunman.

"This has been a horrific murder spree," Sheriff Price said. "There are no words to describe the heartbreak in seeing four lives taken due to the actions of one man.

I have worked in law enforcement for 34 years. This is one of the most disturbing acts of violence I have ever seen."

Officials identified the gunman as Joseph Nickell, but no other information about him was made available.

The identities of victims have also not been released as law enforcement representatives were attempting to notify their next of kin.

Working a murder is never easy. Sheriff Price added in a later statement posted on Facebook, Working the murders of four innocent people that are part of your community is even tougher.

The scenes are never the same but the chilling outcome is always heart wrenching.

No matter how many deaths you have seen or how many scenes you have been on, it never gets easier."

The murders come little more than a fortnight after a shooting spree at a Kentucky high school left two students dead and 16 injured.

In that case, the suspect opened fire at the Marshall County High School on a group of teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18.

Several outlets reported the editor of a local news website rushed to the scene, where she apparently discovered the alleged gunman was her son.

A 15-year-old boy was arrested at the scene and charged as a minor with two counts of murder and 12 counts of first degree assault.

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Assistant County Attorney Jason Darnall told reporters that his office would move to have the boy tried as an adult.

Additional reporting by ReutersJihadi

The US has said it wants Britain and other allies to take responsibility for putting their captured jihadists on trial, potentially setting them on a collision course over the fate of the two "Beatles".

The US is urging the UK and other members of the coalition fighting Isil to help deal with the growing number of foreign fighters that are being held by Syrian Democratic Forces partners, saying the militants should be turned over to face justice in their home countries.

The US-backed SDF is currently holding hundreds of foreign fighters, including Alexanda Kotey, 34, and El Shafee Elsheikh, 29, from London, and British-Canadian Muslim convert Jack Letts.

"We're working with the coalition on foreign fighter detainees, and generally expect these detainees to return to their country of origin for disposition," said Kathryn Wheelbarger, a senior Pentagon official.

British jihadi Alexanda Kotey

"Defense ministers have the obligation and the opportunity to really explain to their other ministers or their other Cabinet officials just the importance to the mission, to the campaign, to make sure that there's an answer to this problem."

The comment has been read as a direct response to Gavin Williamson, the Defence Secretary, who said last week that the jihadists should not be allowed home.

I dont think they should ever set foot in this country again," he said. "They turned their back on Britain, our values and everything we stand for  they are the worst of the worst.

Jim Mattis, US Defense Secretary, is expected to press the issue during a meeting in Rome tomorrow with his European counterparts.

The thorny subject of what to do with foreign Isil suspects has sparked intense debate in the West, with France saying they should be tried in situ by their captors.

Alexanda Kotey, one of two Britons suspected of having been part of the Islamic State extremist group dubbed "The Beatles" who were captured by Kurdish militia fighters in January. Credit: ITV

The pair, who are thought to have had their British citizenship stripped, were arrested last month by the SDF as they tried to flee across the Syrian border to Turkey among refugees.

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Together they make up half of an Isil cell commonly dubbed "The Beatles" because of the British accents, which tortured and beheaded Western hostages in a prison near the Syrian city of Raqqa.

US officials admitted that putting the two in the Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, detention facility is not an option. And British leaders have suggested they do not want the two men returned to to the UK.

The legal issues are daunting. Most nations, including the US, would be unwilling to take back detainees unless they have the evidence to prosecute them, and that often is difficult to collect in such battlefield captures.

The US could try to build a case around evidence gathered from Elsheikh and Kotey over the Beatles' torture and killing of American hostages James Foley, Peter Kassig and Steven Sotloff. Britain has made no suggestion they plan to do so for the British victims, aid workers David Haines and Alan Henning.

The Beatles

If Washington fails to do so, the pair's fate becomes uncertain.

The SDF has no internationally recognised legal status to try the suspects themselves and it is unclear what will happen to the hundreds of foreign suspects in their custody.

An SDF official confirmed to the Telegraph that they are currently holding the men in northern Syria and have not yet received any extradition appeal.

"Judging by the words of the British Defence Secretary I don't think the UK wants them back. He already said he wants all these fighters in Syria dead," Sherin Abdullah said. We havent heard anything from Britain at all.

The commander of the SDF said on Monday that they were overwhelmed by the number of foreigners in their detention and bemoaned how no one wants to take them back.

"The capacity problem is very real," Ms Wheelbarger said, noting that at one point the SDF was capturing as many as 40 militants a day. "Success in the campaign means you get more people off the battlefield. ... These facilities are eventually going to be full."

Elsheikh and Kotey have already been interrogated at length by the CIA to extract intelligence about Isil's current operational capacity. They have also questioned them on the location of the burial sites of the Western hostages executed by fellow Beatle Mohammed Emwazi, known as "Jihadi John".

The pair are understood to be talking and have offered some information that US commandos on the ground are now acting on.CJ convenes full court meeting tomorrow

Staff Reporter :

Chief Justice Syed Mahmud Hossain has convened a full court meeting with the High Court judges on Wednesday to take decision on few issues including promotion of 141 additional district judges to the post of district judges.

The meeting will be held at the Conference Room of the Administration Building-4 of the Supreme Court at 3:30 pm on Wednesday, SC acting registrar general Md Zakir Hossain told the journalists.

A notification was also issued in this regard in the website of the Supreme Court.

Chief Justice Syed Mahmud Hossain will preside over the full court meeting where the judges of the High Court Division of the SC will attend.

The meeting may take decision on promotion of 141 additional district judges to the post of district judges, he said, adding that the Law Ministry has sent a proposal for their promotion around two years back to the Supreme Court for its approval.

Zakir Hossain, however, could not say why the proposal was not approved by the SC in two years.Kiev (AFP) - Former Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili, who fell out with Ukraine's leader Petro Poroshenko, was deported to Poland on Monday, the country's border guard service said.

Saakashvili had been residing in Ukraine "illegally" and was therefore sent to the country where he initially came from, the service said in a statement.

Saakashvili, who had been stripped of his passport, broke through the Ukrainian-Polish border with the help of his supporters in September last year and since then has led rallies calling for Poroshenko's ouster.

The 49-year-old, who stands accused of trying to stage a coup sponsored by Russia, was stripped of his Ukrainian passport in 2017.

A pariah of the Kremlin after Georgia fought a short war with Russia in 2008, Saakashvili was a vocal champion of a popular uprising in Kiev that toppled the Moscow-backed government in 2014.

Poroshenko rewarded Saakashvili for his efforts by appointing him governor of the strategic Black Sea region of Odessa in 2015 before the two men fell out. He was arrested in December.

He is also wanted in his native Georgia for alleged abuse of power.Gigi Hadid has hit back at body shamers [Photo: Getty]

Gigi Hadid has hit back at body shamers who have commented on her changing body shape in recent years.

In a series of passionate tweets the 22-year-old model responded to trolls who have commented on her fluctuating weight, explaining that the changes are due in part to being diagnosed with Hashimotos disease.

For those of you so determined to come up w why my body has changed over the years, you may not know that when I started @ 17 I was not yet diagnosed w/Hashimotos disease; those of u who called me too big for the industry were seeing inflammation & water retention due to that, she wrote.

Over the last few years Ive been properly medicated to help symptoms including those, as well as extreme fatigue, metabolism issues, bodys ability to retain heat, etc the model, who is dating former One Direction star Zayn Malik continued. I was also part of a holistic medical trial that helped my thyroid levels balance out.

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Gigi went on to say that while stress and excessive travel, which are big parts of a career in modelling, can affect the body, shes always eaten the same.

I may be too skinny for you, honestly this skinny isnt what I want to be she continued.

I will not further explain the way my body looksstop putting me in that box just because u dont understand the way my body has matured, she wrote.

Gigi concluded her statement with a call to others to stop the body shaming.

Please, as social media users & human beings in general, learn to have more empathy for others and know that you never really know the whole story. Use your energy to lift those that you admire rather than be cruel to those u dont.

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Unsurprisingly Gigis followers were quick to step in and offer support including some of the models celebrity friends.

Replying to Gigis tweet Ruby Rose wrote: Sorry you too have to explain something so ridiculous to people. Love to you. Love to the people who try to tear down others also because they are just people who havent had the spiritual growth that needs to occur to love and accept one another.

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While Chrissy Teigen who has faced criticism about her body simply wrote: Alternate tweet: f**k off

According to the NHS Hashimotos disease is an auto immune disorder caused by the immune system attacking the thyroid gland, making it swell and become damaged.

The site goes on to explain that people who suffer with it will have symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland, which can include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin and depression.

In some cases the swollen thyroid may also cause a goitre (lump) to form in your throat.

But Thyroid UK says that Hashimotos disease can present in many ways, causing different symptoms. The thing to understand about Hashimotos disease is that it is basically a variant of hypothyroidism, caused specifically by autoimmunity; the thyroid gets infiltrated by white cells and slowly loses its function; it usually enlarges but may not, and may start with an over-active phase before becoming under-active, the site reads.

Though it is not known what causes Hashimotos disease, it is believed it does sometimes run in families.

Gigi Hadid has Hashimotos thyroiditis which is an auto immune disease [Photo: Getty]

Hashimotos thyroiditis cant be cured, but the symptoms are often easily treated with a thyroid hormone replacement medication, which is usually taken for life.

Surgery is only really needed in rare cases, if for example your goitre is particularly painful or uncomfortable.

Gigi first revealed she was suffering from the condition back in 2016.

My metabolism actually changed like crazy this year. She told Elle Magazine. I have Hashimotos disease.

Its a thyroid disease, and its now been two years since taking the medication for it, so for the Victoria Secret show I didnt want to lose any more weight, I just want to have muscles in the right place, and if my butt can get a little perkier, then thats good.

She went on to reveal that her mum taught her a trick to help her cope when people are cruel about her body.

Literally, screaming into a pillow helps, she said.

One time I was on set for a beach shoot, and my mum said, Go scream into the ocean. It relieves the tension.'

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.

Read more from Yahoo Style UK:

Gigi Hadid shows off armpit hair for LOVE Advent Calendar

Gigi and Bella Hadid have a secret cousin whos a plus-size model and body positive advocate

Gigi and Bella Hadids nude British Vogue shoot makes for uncomfortable viewingYahoo News photo illustration; photos: AP, Kenneth Copeland Ministries via Facebook

Brethren, our topic for this weeks column is the flu, because I have it.

I followed the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and got a vaccination, which may or may not have lessened my symptoms. But then I discovered I had neglected the most important prophylaxis of all: prayer.

This advice came from the evangelist Gloria Copeland, who with her husband, Kenneth, runs a religious empire based largely on faith healing. Copeland posted a video last week that argued, passionately if incoherently, either that the flu doesnt actually exist (We got a duck season, a deer season, but we dont have a flu season) or that faith can protect you from it (inoculate yourself with the word of God).

At a time when the CDC was warning that this years flu outbreak appears to be the worst in almost a decade, Copelands remarks went, uhh, viral. They also attracted unwanted attention to her connection to Donald Trumps presidential campaign, on whose evangelical advisory board she and her husband served, alongside prominent Christian and Republican figures including Jerry Falwell Jr., Michele Bachmann and James Dobson. Apparently in response, a clarification went up on the Copeland Ministries website, insisting that Gloria did not say or imply that you shouldnt get a flu shot or see a doctor. Gloria and Kenneth Copeland Ministries value medicine and doctors and would never counsel someone not to seek medical care.

That disclaimer would be more convincing if there werent copious evidence that Copeland actually does not value medicine, at least in comparison with the kind of healing that goes on in her church and at revivals. Her statement on the website was followed by pages of testimonials like this one, from Terri: Tests showed I had a growth on my gallbladder and the doctor recommended surgery. We prayed and received healing by faith. Hands were laid on me and I never had another symptom. As Copeland once preached: We know whats wrong with you. Youve got cancer. The bad news is we dont know what to do about it  except give you some poison that will make you sicker. Now, which do you want to do? Do you want to do that, or do you want to sit in here on a Saturday morning, hear the word of God and let faith come into your heart and be healed?

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At least since the time of Jesus, Christians have prayed for health. But Kurt Andersen, in his indispensable guide to American irrationality, Fantasyland, traces contemporary faith healing to the advent of the charismatic, ecstatic form of Christian worship known as Pentecostalism. After its heyday in the early decades of the 20th century, it was banished to the fringes of society for decades, only to reemerge in recent years under the guise of prosperity gospel. As preached by the Copelands, Oral Roberts, Joel Osteen and many others, one can think of prosperity gospel as a form of applied religion, by analogy to, say, applied science, that involves trying to obtain concrete rewards in the here and now, including financial success, personal happiness and overcoming adversity.

Such as the flu.

Andersen notes that this is not a practice confined to right-wing Christians. Seeking to cure cancer by praying is not more or less implausible than using crystals for the purpose. Oprah, that great font of national gullibility, was an early exponent of The Secret, a best-selling book by Rhonda Byrnes that repackaged prosperity gospel in secular form as the law of attraction, the idea that the universe would provide whatever you sought if you just thought about it long and hard enough.

Morally, this is deplorable. Byrnes book never so much as raised the possibility that the awesome power she had discovered could be used for the benefit of anyone else  a hungry child, say  rather than grabbing jewelry, toys, lovers or a good parking spot. Its also common knowledge that the prosperity in prosperity gospel mostly accrues to the people who preach it.

Metaphysically, its a muddle. Prayer doesnt work all the time, obviously, so why does God heal some people and not others? How does he do it? The Bible verses that Copeland cites in support of her practice were written at a time when the human body was a black box, and there was no inherent reason to doubt that Jesus could raise someone from the dead. By 1987, though, when Oral Roberts made the same claim for himself, it was understood that restoring a corpse to life requires reversing a whole cascade of cellular processes for which there is no known, or even conceivable, mechanism. Does God go through each of the trillions of cells in a human body and jump-start the mitochondria?

Still, between coughing fits last week, I wondered: Could Copeland be on to something? I had relied on medical science to ward off the flu, and I got sick anyway. (Full disclosure: this is a self-diagnosis, based on my feeling the way Trump reportedly described the nations of Africa). What does science have to say about prayer as a form of medical prophylaxis?

It is part of the greatness of the scientific method that this question can be asked, and, within the limits of our present-day knowledge, answered. The first statistical study of so-called intercessory prayer was published in 1872 by the eminent Victorian scientist Sir Francis Galton, who noted that, notwithstanding the millions of prayers regularly offered in European countries for the health of their respective royal families, on average royals actually died younger  64 years  than clergymen, lawyers, military officers, or members of all other genteel professions, excluding deaths by accident or violence.

I rest my case.

No, actually, I dont, because scientists have continued to study the question  not by calculating the lifespan of kings, but with controlled experiments enlisting hundreds of subjects and modern statistical analysis. You can read an analysis by David R. Hodge of Arizona State University here, and another here. What seemed to Galton like a straightforward question of statistics turns out to pose all kinds of research conundrums. What kinds of prayer should be studied, and by whom? For what kinds of disease? Should the people prayed for be told in advance, and is their informed consent required? What measures should be used to determine if the prayers worked?

Each researcher answered those questions differently. A few studies, less than half, indicated a beneficial effect of intercessory prayer, but the effects were small. Often the outcomes involved obscure markers of recovery such as the incidence of certain specific surgical complications. God works in mysterious ways, but thats a long way from being raised from the dead.

At least one researcher treated the whole question as a joke, and did an experiment to show that praying for patients years after they were sick  and in some cases, after they were already dead  was correlated with shorter hospital stays. (The paper was published in a peer-reviewed journal  the data was real, if nonsensical  and it has been cited by other researchers, leading to some professional angst about the ethics of scientific satire.)

The bottom line is that while we cant prove that prayer works or doesnt work, if it were a drug up for approval by the FDA, it likely wouldnt qualify. Hodge says it would be classified as an experimental intervention.

Still, theres no harm in it, is there? When people are sick, their families and friends want to feel theyre doing something, and praying for them, if nothing else, keeps them in mind. Last month White House press secretary Sarah Sanders asked people to pray for 9-year-old Sophia Marie Campa-Peters, who was about to undergo life-saving brain surgery. Those who responded undoubtedly felt good about themselves, Sophia and her parents took courage from the response, and Trump himself, at the National Prayer Breakfast last week, cited her recovery after millions of people lifted Sophia up in their prayers. Who could be against that  given, of course, that the prayers were viewed, properly, as supplemental to the surgery, rather than a substitute for it?

But thats the catch: Some people do substitute faith for medical treatment. The Copelands own church was at the center of a measles outbreak in 2013, spread by children whose parents had failed to vaccinate them. The church denied that it discourages vaccination, but as one former member explained, To get a vaccine would have been viewed by me and my friends and my peers as an act of fear  that you doubted God would keep you safe.  We simply didnt do it.

As public health officials have said repeatedly, an unvaccinated child isnt just a risk to herself, but even to those who did receive a shot; the operative concept is community [aka herd] immunity. More broadly, the belief that we can turn our problems over to Jesus  or the law of attraction  can distract us from other urgent problems that require human solutions. And environmental problems in particular require those human solutions. This is a mindset that is compounded by the fact that many of the same people who turn to God to keep them from getting the flu also believe in the imminence of the End Times, which would render the melting of the polar ice caps an irrelevant inconvenience.

James Inhofe, the chair of the Senate Environmental Committee, has been especially forceful in this regard. His view is to let God handle global warming, since its out of humanitys hands anyway. Gods still up there, he has said. The arrogance of people to think that we, human beings, would be able to change what He is doing in the climate is to me outrageous.

All I can say about that is, for Inhofes sake I hope he doesnt take the same attitude toward his own health as he does toward the health of the Earth.

And as for me, I need a nap.

Read more from Yahoo News:Herman Cain, the former chairman and chief executive officer of Godfathers Pizza, says allegations that President Trump is a racist are unfounded. (Photo: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Herman Cain, the insurgent 2012 candidate who defied expectations to briefly lead the Republican primary field in some polls and who electrified the Tea Party and presaged the rise of Donald Trump, is still as outspoken and passionate as ever. In an interview with Yahoo News, Cain scoffed at the allegation that Trump is a racist and suggested that his own experience as a presidential candidate gives him some insights into what Trumps been through.

I dont think Donald Trump has a racist bone in his body. And you can quote me on that, Cain told Yahoo News. I have known him for many years. I have talked to people who work directly for him. The man is a businessman. How could he be a racist? His daughter married a person whose religious belief is Jewish. Good! He doesnt go around making statements that are racist in nature. No, he says things where some people out there  especially people who dont like him  try to spin it as being racist.

That is certainly how Trump, who frequently calls himself the least racist person youll ever meet, sees himself. But amid his reported remarks about preferring immigrants from countries like Norway to those from Haiti or African nations, many news stories citing evidence to the contrary persist: his insistence that President Barack Obama wasnt born in America, his seeming reluctance to disavow white supremacists, repeated allegations that his company discriminates against black people seeking to rent apartments in Trump buildings.

But Cain maintains that he never observed anything at Trumps campaign events that would indicate that he harbors any animus for minorities.

When he was campaigning, I spoke at three of his rallies. There were plenty of black people and Hispanic people there trying to help him get elected. I never saw him try to put anybody down. The people who dont like him are trying to stick him with a racist label, which is not true, Cain said. At a campaign rally in Atlanta, he vouched for Trump as a shucky ducky kind of candidate. Trump received 8 percent of votes by black people in 2016.

Story continues

When asked about the infamous meeting during which Trump reportedly disparaged African countries as shitholes, Cain argued that the whole debacle is an example of how the media misconstrues the truth to fit the narrative they are trying to push.

First, he denied saying that word. Two senators that were in the room didnt hear him say that word. The head of homeland security said she didnt hear him say that word, Cain told Yahoo News. And the only person who said that he said it was Sen. Dick Durbin. And then people have picked up the alleged saying of it as if he said it. Why cant they believe him and four other people?

Its true that Trump has denied saying the word; Sens. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., and David Perdue, R-Ga., put out a statement claiming they could not recall him saying it; and Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen testified the same before the Senate Judiciary Committee. But Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., pushed back against Trumps immigration comments during the meeting and reportedly confirmed the off-color remarks to others.

Cain takes Trump at his word that he didnt use this crass language, and argues Trump was discussing the conditions of those countries  not their people. Nevertheless, Cain said he understands that Trumps behavior and rhetoric may be off-putting to some people.

Yes, he has said some things maybe when he was using his Twitter account that may have been a little rough around the edges. I get that! Cain said. And there are certainly some that make some of us cringe a little bit. But I love the title of the book that came up recently written by Corey Lewandowski and David Bossie: Let Trump Be Trump.

According to Cain, someone who puts aside Trumps language and personality and just focuses on the results of his policies would see how great Trumps first-year performance was. Cain said he would give it an A for two major reasons: He rolled back regulations and signed into law the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which he called one of the biggest legislative achievements in 30 years.

Though Cain still enjoys rock star receptions at conservative speaking events, its hard to overstate just how ubiquitous he was in 2011. In many ways, Cain was a precursor to the Trump phenomenon: a populist businessman with a larger-than-life personality who made headlines with nearly every utterance. According to the Pew Research Center, Cain was the most covered Republican presidential candidate of 2011.

Cains buoyant personality, pithy quips and businessman sensibilities were further bolstered by an inspiring biography. After a poor childhood in Atlanta, he studied mathematics at Morehouse College then computer science at Purdue University. During this time, Cain worked for the U.S. Navy, helping to design fire control systems. He applied his technical skills while working for Coca-Cola and then Pillsbury Company, before transitioning into business management. He became president and CEO of the struggling Godfathers Pizza restaurant chain in 1986, and successfully turned the franchiser around, scaling back the number of restaurants and increasing sales at the remaining locations. His interests shifted toward politics, and he launched a failed Senate bid from Georgia in 2004 before his presidential run turned him into a political star.

But his journey to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. was upended by accusations of sexual harassment, which he adamantly denied. The medias attention abruptly shifted from his life story and improbable rise, to the allegations and denials. At the time, with his wife by his side, Cain announced that he was suspending his campaign to spare his family from any further pain  an explanation he reiterated on Fox News in the post-Weinstein era. When asked whether he misses the level of attention he received as a candidate, Cain said hes happier without it because a lot of the coverage was misguided or based on lies.

The media wasnt pushing back on some of the accusations. No, I didnt enjoy that. And the frustrating part is that the more you tried to deny that something didnt happen, the more they wrote stories alleging that it did, he said.

Cain declined to elaborate on any accusations that he found particularly egregious.

Dont want to get into it. Been there, done that. Thats history. Thats past and gone. I got too many positive things happening in my life right now, he said.

Nowadays, Cain keeps a busy schedule with his radio show and overall mission to stop liberals from stealing our way of life. Cain, 72, lives in McDonough, Ga., a suburb just south of Atlanta. He usually wakes up around 6 a.m., pours a cup of coffee and sits down to watch the morning news and catch up on the latest to see if its relevant for his radio program, which airs from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on several Cox Media Group stations and his website. He arrives at his office at about 9 a.m. five days a week and fine-tunes his script for the next two hours. The show opens with the three big things you need to know.

Go to three big things, because I often talk about the fact that theres a lot of noise and a lot of garbage out there that people really dont need to know, Cain said.

He asks himself the following questions to determine if a particular issue should be on his list: Is this going to affect their lives? Is this going to affect their income? Is this going to affect their family? Is this going to affect the nation in a big way?

Things that might not directly affect people are reserved for section two, News Nugget Highlights. These are usually quick hits on whats going on but not huge stories. He offered, as an example, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosis crumbs comment about the benefits to the nonwealthy from the Republican tax plan.

Theyre not crumbs! Not to someone whos making a median income. I think thats just insulting to people. I see myself as another voice out there to tell people the truth, Cain said. Several folks do that that I respect, but there are more voices lying to people.

After finishing the show, Cain meets his friends for a casual lunch five minutes away, during which they dont talk about politics or the big stories of the day. He said they just kick back, relax and have a good time. Then its back to the office to go over scheduling requests with his assistant or prepare for an appearance on Fox News or another outlet. Cain also writes an article for his website about once a week and produces Pure Cain videos about twice a week.

My office is only five minutes from the place where I have lunch, and where I have lunch is only five minutes from my home. Thats no accident. Thats by design, he said. Thats a typical day for me unless I have to travel to give a keynote speech. I get a lot of invitations to speak all over the country. And I accept as many of them as I can. I cant take them all because you got to have a little personal time and time to look after other things.

In addition to his radio program and speeches, Cain runs a political action committee (PAC). The Pay Attention Citizens PACs mission is to help preserve our nations way of life and has a threefold strategy: defeating congressional RINOS (Republicans in name only), exposing the alleged bias against the Trump administration and debunking lies stemming from TDS (so-called Trump Derangement Syndrome), a mental disorder coined by the presidents supporters to mock his critics as ridiculous and unreasonable.

Throughout our conversation, Cain was particularly critical of identity politics and the the narrow lens of the media, which he blamed for making the United States of America look divided. He said that he doesnt see this division in his everyday life, but that he does see it in the media.

He said that Black Lives Matter is an illegitimate movement and that all lives matter. He said that defining the so-called alt-right as a rebranding of white nationalism is yet again another lie. Both, he said, are instances of people using identity politics to divide us. When asked about the Womens March, he said, If you agree with the narrative that theyre trying to put out there, youre OK. But if you dont, then they shoo you away. I havent followed that that much.

Cain tells Yahoo News that he will not run for office again. He said he ran for U.S. Senate and the White House because he wanted to make a difference and get things done  not kick the can down the road.

The answer is no, I have run out. Im not running again, he said. I dont have this lifelong desire to be constantly running for political office.

Read more from Yahoo News:By Yeganeh Torbati WASHINGTON (Reuters) - An Iranian-Canadian dual citizen and environmental activist imprisoned by Iranian authorities last month has died in prison, his son wrote on Twitter on Saturday. Kavous Seyed-Emami was managing director of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, which seeks to protect Iran's rare animals, and a U.S.-trained scholar in sociology. Seyed-Emami's son, the Iranian musician Raam Emami, wrote on Twitter that his father was arrested on Jan. 24, and that his mother had been informed of Emami's death on Feb. 9. It was not immediately clear where he was tweeting from. "The news of my father's passing is impossible to fathom," Raam Emami wrote. "I still can't believe this." On his Instagram account, Raam Emami wrote that authorities said his father had committed suicide. He did not respond to requests for further comment. Tehran's prosecutor Abbas Jafari-Dolatabadi said on Saturday that Iran's security forces had arrested several people on espionage charges, the judiciary's Mizan news agency reported. "They were gathering classified information in strategic areas ... under the coverage of scientific and environmental projects," he said, without giving further information. The Iranian judiciary could not immediately be reached for comment on Saturday evening. Iranian authorities had not announced an arrest of Seyed-Emami, and his death was not confirmed by official sources. The Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI), a non-profit group based in New York, said at least nine other staff members and executives of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation were arrested the same day as Seyed-Emami, citing information from a relative of one of those arrested. Those arrested included an Iranian-American dual national, Morad Tahbaz, CHRI said. A U.S. State Department spokeswoman said the United States is "aware of reports that a U.S. citizen has been detained in Iran." Several Iranian-American dual nationals are in jail in Iran. Reuters reported last year that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has arrested at least 30 dual nationals over the past two years, mostly on spying charges. Seyed-Emami received his doctorate in sociology from the University of Oregon in 1991, according to an online alumni listing maintained by the university. A spokeswoman for Global Affairs Canada, which manages Canadian foreign and trade relations, said the government is aware of the reports of Seyed-Emami's death. "Canadian consular officials in Ankara are working to gather additional information and are providing assistance to the family of the Canadian citizen," said the spokeswoman, Natasha Nystrom. Canada does not have diplomatic presence in Iran, and its embassy in Ankara has consular responsibility for Iran. "He was a very knowledgeable man and a very kind and generous man," said Nahid Siamdoust, a scholar at Yale University who knew him. "He lived a simple life that was connected to nature and that's why he was an inspiring man. People could see this was what he believed and he lived that way too." Iran faces a number of serious environmental crises, including water scarcity, air pollution and wildlife poaching. Human rights groups say activists in Iran face the risk of arbitrary arrest and harassment by authorities. (Reporting by Yeganeh Torbati, additional reporting by David Ljunggren and Parisa Hafezi; Editing by Mary Milliken and David Gregorio)Baghdad (AFP) - Iraq has asked British energy giant BP to help bolster production at oilfields recaptured from the Kurds in northern Kirkuk province, Oil Minister Jabbar al-Luaybi said Sunday.

Luaybi told AFP he wanted to discuss a request for BP to draft a study on increasing output when the company's boss visits Kirkuk in the coming days.

"I suggested they study my proposal and I am waiting for their reply," Luaybi said.

BP is the biggest foreign player in Iraq's oil sector, running the Rumaila field in the south of the country which produces 1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) -- almost a third of Iraq's output.

In 2014, the oil ministry and BP signed a consultancy deal under which the energy titan would study reserves in the Baba Gurgur and Havana fields and ways of developing them.

But Baghdad lost the Kirkuk fields to Kurdish forces that year during a sweeping offensive by the Islamic State group, and the deal was never implemented.

"Because of IS, it was frozen," Luaybi said.

But he said Iraq had signed a new memorandum with BP in January after the federal government seized back control of the area following a September Kurdish independence referendum bitterly opposed by Baghdad.

Baba Gurgur, discovered in 1927, is Iraq's oldest oilfield.

Central government forces recaptured it from the Kurds in October along with the fields of Havana, Bai Hassan, Jambu and Khabbaz.

The five fields have a total output of around 470,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) but production and export have been slow as the main pipeline linking Kirkuk to the Ceyhan oil terminal in Turkey was damaged and needs repairs.

Luaybi said a new 350-kilometre (220-mile) oil pipeline able to pump over one million bpd from the Kirkuk fields to Turkey may be completed within as little as a year.

In the meantime, Iraq will export up to 60,000 bpd by road to refineries around Iran's Kermanshah, where oil firms face major challenges transferring oil from wells in southern Iran, he said.

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"We will supply those refineries and (receive) the equivalent quantities in our southern port" of Basra, he said.

- Talks with the Kurds -

Luaybi also said talks were underway with the Kurdish authorities with a view to pumping Kirkuk oil via a pipeline through the autonomous Kurdish region.

"We hope to succeed. We have reached a sort of understanding so far," he said.

A sixth oilfield, Khurmala, remains under Kurdish control, but Luaybi insisted it belongs to Iraq's state-owned North Oil Company.

"Khurmala belongs to NOC and was discovered more than 30 years ago," he said. "We started developing it in 1995. NOC and the oil ministry have finished drilling 36 wells there."

Luaybi said the Iraqi oil ministry had launched a $37 million programme in 2004 to develop Khurmala.

The ministry of resources in the autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq seized Khurmala in 2008-2009, Luaybi said.

"But it's a field that belongs to the oil ministry of the federal government," Luaybi said.

Iraq is the second largest producer in the OPEC cartel after Saudi Arabia.

It reported its oil exports at 109.6 million barrels in December last year, the same month that the government announced victory over IS.

Iraq in December 2017 earned around $6.5 billion (5.3 billion euros) from crude sales, at $59.3 per barrel.By Maher Chmaytelli and Ahmed Hagagy KUWAIT (Reuters) - Rebuilding Iraq after three years of war with Islamic State will cost more than $88 billion, with housing a particularly urgent priority, Iraqi officials told an international donors' conference on Monday. Donors and investors have gathered in Kuwait this week to discuss efforts to rebuild Iraq's economy and infrastructure as it emerges from a devastating conflict with the hardline militants who seized almost a third of the country. Iraq declared victory over Islamic State in December, having taken back all the territory captured by the militants in 2014 and 2015. The fighters have also been largely defeated in neighboring Syria. About $23 billion will be needed in the short term and more than $65 billion in the medium term, the director-general of Iraq's planning ministry, Qusay Adulfattah, told the conference. "Rebuilding Iraq is restoring hope to Iraq, and restoring the stability of Iraq is stabilizing the states of the region and the world," said Planning Minister Salman al-Jumaili. The seven provinces attacked by the militants suffered $46 billion in direct damage, including the destruction of 147,000 housing units, and the security forces took $14 billion in losses. Tens of billions more were lost indirectly through damage to the wider economy and years of lost growth, the planning ministry said. Iraq has published a list of some 157 projects for which it is seeking investment. They include rebuilding destroyed facilities such as Mosul airport and new investments to diversify the economy away from crude oil sales, developing transport, agriculture and oil-related industry including petrochemicals and refining. Rebuilding homes, hospitals, schools, roads, businesses and telecommunications will be key to providing jobs for the young, ending the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people and putting an end to decades of political and sectarian violence. GAINS AT RISK Nations could help by acting as guarantors with lenders, allowing Iraq to take out soft loans to fund infrastructure projects, Mahdi al-Alaq, Secretary-General of Iraq's Council of Ministers, told the conference. U.S. officials said the United States, which occupied Iraq from 2003-2011 and now leads an international coalition that provided air support against Islamic State, does not plan to pledge funds at the Kuwait conference. Lise Grande, U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq, said failure to help Iraq could lead to renewed instability. "If the international community doesn't help the government of Iraq to stabilize these areas (devastated by the war) the gains against Daesh could be at risk," she said, using the Arabic acronym for Islamic State. Non-governmental organizations pledged $330 million in humanitarian aid at a parallel NGO conference, Kuwait's state news agency KUNA reported. Baghdad has said it is determined to tackle the red tape and corruption that hamper investment. Iraq is viewed by investors as the 10th most corrupt country in the world, according to Transparency International. Iraq reopened to foreign investment after 2003, with most spent on increasing its oil and natural gas production. Iraq has suffered from decades of war. It fought Iran for most of the 1980s and invaded Kuwait in 1990, leading to defeat by a U.S.-led coalition and more than a decade of sanctions. A U.S.-led invasion in 2003 toppled dictator Saddam Hussein and was followed by years of occupation, insurgency and sectarian and ethnic conflict, before Islamic State emerged in 2014. (Reporting by Maher Chmaytelli and Ahmed Hegagy; Writing and additional reporting in Baghdad by Ahmed Aboulenein; Editing by Gareth Jones)Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, delivering a sermon at a mosque in Iraq during his first public appearance as Isil leader - Militant video

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the leader of the Islamic State, is still alive but injury and poor health has forced him to relinquish control of the terror group, according to an Iraqi intelligence chief and US officials.

Baghdadi is hiding out in the desert on the Syrian side of the Syria-Iraq border northeast of Deir Ezzor province, said Abu Ali al-Basri, director general of Iraqs intelligence and counter-terrorism office at the ministry of interior.

"We have irrefutable information and documents from sources within the terrorist organisation that al-Baghdadi is still alive and hiding," Mr Basri was quoted on Monday in the government daily As-Sabah.

The official said the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isil) chief had suffered from fractures and serious wounds which were likely the result of previous airstrikes on the organisations strongholds in Iraq and Syria.

Iraqi displaced people flee their houses due to the fighting between Iraqi forces and Isil at the old city areas, western Mosul, Iraq, Credit: EPA

Baghdadi, who also suffers from diabetes, is thought to have been left unable to walk unassisted from injuries incurred from a raid in 2015 which were exasperated by another last May.

Mr Basri described his condition as severe, saying he added that the jihadist had recently been admitted to a hospital in the Jazeera desert for his deteriorating psychological state.

Russia had claimed it killed the reclusive leader, who has not been seen in public since declaring Isils caliphate from the Iraqi city of Mosul in July 2014, in an air strike on a meeting of senior Isil commanders near Raqqa on May 28.

However it offered no evidence to back up the claim and it was questioned by the US-led coalition against Isil at the time.

US officials confirmed to CNN that while Baghdadi's injuries were not considered life-threatening they did mean he has not been able to continue to command the daily operations of the group.

Baghdadi, whose real name is Ibrahim Awad Ibrahim al-Badri, is thought to be communicating with the groups followers via voice messages sent over encrypted app services. His last public message was in September last year.

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Isil militants pose with the jihadists' flag after they seized an Iraqi army checkpoint in the northern Iraqi province of Salahuddin in 2014 Credit: AFP

In the 46-minute audio, he called on supporters to carry out attacks on the West.

Baghdadis whereabouts has been the subject of much speculation since the groups defeat in all its former major strongholds in Iraq and Syria.

The 46-year-old was believed to be holding up near Baaj, west of Mosul, until the US-backed Iraqi army offensive on the area in the spring of last year.

Since then he is thought to have been moving around villages along the Syria-Iraq border still under Isils control.

The Telegraph was told by a resident of the village of Jdaidet al-Okaibat in the outskirts of Deir Ezzor that he appeared on June 24 last year for Ramadan prayers, where he greeted followers and appeared "in good spirits".

Haider al-Abadi, Iraqs prime minister, declared final victory over Isil late last year but stressed Iraqis to stay vigilant as sleeper cells and insurgencies remain a threat.

Isil retains a significant presence in the desert plains of northeastern Syria's Hasakeh province despite having lost most of its cross-border "caliphate" which once also covered a third of neighbouring Iraq.

Since the end of the offensives in Raqqa and Deir Ezzor - when thousands of fighters fled west - Isil had been taking advance of chaos elsewhere in Syria to regroup.

There have been reports of the group launching numerous attacks against Syrian troops in Hama province.

Hisham al-Hashimi, an adviser to the Iraqi government on its battle with Isil, said that of the group's 43 founding members Baghdadi is the last one left.

He said most of Isil's most senior commanders had been killed, leaving the jihadist group without any real leadership.Cell phones banned within 200 yards of SSC exam centres

Two held for question leakage in Ctg

Staff Reporter :

The Education Ministry on Monday imposed ban on carrying mobile phone sets around the vicinity of Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination centres restrict to the spate of question leakage further.

"If anyone is found with a mobile sets in and around 200 yards of an examination centre, he or she will be subjected to arrest," an Education Ministry order said. The Higher and Secondary Division of Education Ministry issued a couple of directives upon the authorities concerned on Monday in this regard.

The SSC question papers have been leaking out from the very first day of the examination. The question papers are being found on social media sites and mobile phone before the start of the examinations.

The SSC and its equivalent examinations started throughout the country on February 1.

Meanwhile, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) arrested two persons, including an examinee, involved in question papers leakage from Raozan upazila of Chittagong district on Sunday night.

The RAB members recovered two mobile phone sets and a set of leaked question papers form the accused persons.

The arrestees have been identified as Imran and Nurul Afsar. Nurul Afsar is a SSC examinee from Taracharan Shamacharan High School and Imran is a showroom employee. Deputy Director of RAB-7 (Chittagong) Lieutenant Commander Asekur Rahman said the arrestees admitted that they were involved with question papers leakage.

"Imran and Nurul Afsar bought the question papers from the facebook group and sold to same SSC examinees and guardians," the RAB official said.

"The arrestees used to sell the question papers for Tk 2000 to 10,000," he said.The elusive head of the Islamic State militant group (ISIS) has survived an airstrike and is believed to be hiding out in a shrinking bastion of jihadi control in a mostly desert stretch of eastern Syria known as Al-Jazeera, or "the Island," according to U.S. and Iraq officials.

Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the hardline Sunni Muslim cleric who expanded his Al-Qaeda offshoot from Iraq across Syria, has only made one known public appearance and, as his group suffered widespread losses in recent years, unconfirmed reports of his whereabouts and fate have been numerous. In the latest potential development, a senior Iraqi official said Monday that one of the world's most wanted men has been left incapacitated and is clinging to life by air raids in Iraq, forcing him to give up the helm of his militant network that claimed followers and supporters across the globe.

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"We have irrefutable information and documents from our sources infiltrating the terrorist entity, stating that the criminal Baghdadi is still present today with the help of his collaborators in the Syrian region of Al-Jazeera," Abu Ali al-Basri, director of intelligence and counterterrorism at the Iraqi Interior Ministry and head of the elite Falcons Intelligence Cell, told state-run newspaper Al-Sabah.

Basri said that Baghdadi has been forced to cede control of the group due to his severe "physical and psychological deterioration" and said that the jihadi leader was also likely suffering from diabetes.

GettyImages-914824016

AHMAD AL-RUBAYE/AFP/Getty Images

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Unnamed U.S. officials cited by CNN also said Monday that Baghdadi was injured by an airstrike that left him unable to lead ISIS, but stated that the attack had occurred near what was once ISIS's de facto capital of Raqqa, northern Syria, sometime in May, and had likely been conducted by a U.S.-led coalition or Russian air power. While one official accused Moscow of "making stuff up," according to CNN, the timeline coincided with earlier claims made by Russia.

In June, the Russian Defense Ministry first announced that it had received information about Baghdadi's potential demise after Russian warplanes bombarded ISIS positions in the province of Raqqa on May 28. As the investigation continued, Russia said it was increasingly convinced that it had killed the jihadi warlord, but the U.S. said it could not verify if or how Baghdadi died. Ali Shirazi, a member of the elite expeditionary Quds Force of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said in June that "terrorist Baghdadi is definitely dead."

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Two pro-Syrian opposition monitoring groups, the U.K.-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) and Syria-based Raqqa is Being Slaughtered Silently (RIBSS), also weighed in last summer. SOHR told Newsweek in July that Baghdadi had in fact been killed, but that he died under unknown circumstances in the eastern, then-ISIS-held city of Deir Ezzor. RIBSS tweeted that same day that rumors of Baghdadi's death were "not true."

ISIS maintained silence about Baghdadi until it released an audio tape in September purported to be a recent recording of the militants' leader-at-large. In the roughly 45-minute recording, a man identified as Baghdadi discussed his group's loss of territory to local forces backed by international campaigns, staging attacks against civilians in the so-called "crusader" countries abroad and the nuclear threat posed by North Korea.

RTR3X9BC

Social Media/Reuters TV

Baghdadi was born Ibrahim Awad Ibrahim al-Badri, reportedly in Samarra, Iraq. He became active in Islamist militant circles after the U.S. invasion and occupation of Iraq in 2003. The following year, he was arrested by U.S. forces and detained at Abu Ghraib and Camp Bucca, two detention centers that have since become notorious for having fostered radicalism among the members of Iraq's already disaffected Sunni Muslim minority that were held there after the overthrow of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein.

After his release, Baghdadi went on to join Al-Qaeda in Iraq, which became the Islamic State of Iraq in 2006, and ascended to its leadership after the death of his predecessor in 2010. The group launched a wave of bloody, sectarian violence against Shiite Muslims, as well as regular attacks on U.S. forces. In 2013, Baghdadi renamed the group the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (the Levant), or Syria, and again retitled it in his infamous 2014 speech in Mosul, simply referring to the group as the Islamic State during his first and only known public appearance.

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The group took advantage of civil war and sectarian divides in neighboring Syria to spread there as well in 2014 and overcame most of the majority-Arab Sunni Muslim opposition to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, an ally of Russia and Iran. ISIS seized vast swathes of eastern Syria and marched through Kurdish parts of the north as well before creeping further toward parts of the west.

As the U.S. began cutting support to Syrian rebel groups, it formed an international coalition to defeat the jihadis and assisted Kurdish and Arab forces in ground offensives in both Iraq and Syria. Iran also provided substantial support to the anti-ISIS campaign via mostly Shiite Muslim militias that helped defeat the jihadis in both countries.

RTX4GPBW (3)

INSTITUTE FOR THE STUDY OF WAR/REUTERS

In Iraq, the momentum turned against ISIS and, shortly after losing its largest city of Mosul last summer, the group was declared dead by the government. In Syria, the U.S.'s creation of the mostly Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces followed a massive Russian military intervention to assist Assad's armed forces against ISIS, Al-Qaeda and rebel groups trying to oust the Syrian leader since 2011. After an U.S.-backed campaign ousted ISIS from Raqqa in October and the Syrian military defeated the jihadis in Deir Ezzor and Al-Bukamal in November, the Syrian government too declared victory.

As Syrian and Iraq forces converged against the last of ISIS territory along the two countries' desert border, reports of Baghdadi's appearance were circulated. Baghdadi was believed to have fled Iraq as his jihadi empire crumbled and crossed into Syria at a time when defeat was likely, but not imminent. The last towns were taken on both sides of the border, and Baghdadi has yet to surface, essentially leaving only small areas within the Syrian and Iraqi Al-Jazeera, named as such because it's surrounded by the Euphrates and Tigris rivers.

This could change, however, as recent developments diverted attention from the fight against ISIS. Pro-Syrian government forces and the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have begun fighting one another in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor, draining resources needed to prevent a resurgent ISIS. An ongoing Turkish and rebel offensive against Kurds in the northwest and recent Israeli attacks on pro-Syrian government positions near Damascus, have also undermined forces actively battling ISIS in Syria.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekJames Phillips

Security, Middle East

Could it leader to a wider war?

Israel Strikes Syria After Iranian Aerial Intrusion

An Iranian drone flying into Israeli airspace Saturday triggered a mushrooming crisis involving retaliatory strikes and counterstrikes in Syria.

After its provocative violation of Israeli airspace, the drone was destroyed by an Israeli helicopter, and Israel responded with airstrikes on an Iranian command-and-control trailer from which the drone was launched from a base in Syria.

An Israeli F-16 fighter involved in that operation was shot down by Syrian missiles and crashed inside Israel, injuring one pilot. It was the first Israeli fighter plane lost in combat since the 1982 war in Lebanon.

Israel responded by launching a second wave of attacks on 12 Syrian and Iranian targets in Syria, including Syrian SA-17 and SA-5 anti-aircraft batteries and Iranian forces deployed in the country in support of Syrian dictator Bashar Assad.

This is not the first time that Israeli airspace has been violated by Iranian drones, but this incident comes amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel.

Irans Growing Threat in Syria

Last month, a senior Iranian official visited the Lebanese side of Lebanons border with Israel and made provocative comments about the liberation of Jerusalem.

Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisiwho lost Irans presidential election last year, but might still be in line to become the next supreme leaderwas escorted within a United Nations buffer zone by Hezbollah officials who were uniformed and armed. That was a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that prompted Israel to warn the Security Council that Iran was destabilizing the region and subverting the U.N.s peacekeeping role in Lebanon.

Israel has remained wary about intervening in Syrias complex, multisided civil war, but has been drawn into a deepening confrontation with Iran and its Hezbollah surrogates, who have exploited the Syrian war to boost the flow of sophisticated weaponry to expand Hezbollahs threat to Israel.

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Israel has launched scores of pinpoint airstrikes to destroy Iranian-supplied arms inside Syria before they could be transferred to the Lebanon-based terrorist group, but none of its strikes have been as large as Saturdays attacks.

Hezbollah is thought to have amassed an arsenal of about 150,000 rockets that it has dispersed amid civilian buildings and underground facilities covertly built in Lebanon. Iran has provided the bulk of these weapons, including increasingly accurate longer-range missiles capable of reaching most targets in Israel.

Russiawhich controls the airspace in western Syria, where the Iranian drone was launched and where Israel conducted retaliatory strikescalled on all sides to step back from further escalation.

We urge all sides to exercise restraint and to avoid any actions that could lead to an even greater complication of the situation, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Saturday.

An Israeli military spokesman said Israel has no interest in further escalation, but that it would extract a heavy price for such aggression. He said Iran was playing with fire by violating Israeli airspace, and stressed that the drone shot down was on a military mission sent and operated by Iranian military forces.

Israel essentially has signaled that it is willing to quit while it is ahead, but is ready to respond with more force if necessary.

Iran now can choose to either bide its time and lick its wounds, waiting for another opportunity to launch another surprise attack, or escalate the crisis, probably through indirect attacks mounted by Hezbollah in Lebanon or Syria, or by Palestinian allies in Gaza.

Tehran would be well-advised to avoid a direct clash with Israel that it is unlikely to win. It is more likely to adopt asymmetric tactics, attack Israel indirectly using surrogate Shia militias and fight to the last Arab.

In addition to Hezbollah, Iran has deployed up to 20,000 fighters in Syria drawn from Iranian-controlled militias manned by Iraqi, Afghan, and Pakistani fighters.

Hezbollah, as Irans chief surrogate, already is portraying the military clashes as a victory. It released a statement announcing that the downing of the Israeli F-16 jet fighter is the start of a new strategic phase that will limit Israels ability to operate safely in Syrian airspace.

Implications for the United States

Iran has escalated its hostile actions against Israel and the U.S.-led coalition in Syria as the war against ISIS has wound down.

On Feb. 7, the United States launched air and artillery strikes against an armored column of pro-regime militias in Syrias eastern Deir ez-Zor province that had attacked a base of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, where U.S. advisers were deployed.

The Pentagon correctly justified the operation as an act of self-defense. Washington should also strongly support Israels actions Saturday as a legitimate act of self-defense.

The State Department issued a statement supporting Israels sovereign right to defend itself, but the Trump administration should amplify this message through a statement by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson or a high-ranking White House official.

Tillerson just embarked on a diplomatic trip to Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, and Kuwait, from Feb. 11 to 16. The deteriorating situation in Syria will be a major item for discussion at every stop.

Not only are all of these states concerned about the destabilizing spillover effects cascading out of Syria, but all of them are part of the 74-member Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS that will convene a summit in Kuwait at the end of Tillersons trip.

In addition to conferring with allies about how to defeat Irans challenge in Syria, Tillerson will need to focus on how to cement a permanent defeat for ISIS in Syria and Iraq.

The Trump administration already has announced that it will maintain a limited U.S. military presence in northeastern Syria to train and support anti-ISIS militias. It should ask U.S. allies to join in support of those plans and to cooperate to block the flight of thousands of foreign fighters seeking to return home after the defeat of the ISIS caliphate.

Only Washington can lead the broad coalition against ISIS and shape an effective and comprehensive multinational response to Irans hostile plans in Syria.

The bottom line is that both Israel and the United States increasingly are being drawn into the Syrian civil war, in large part because of Iran.

Tillersons prime goal on his current trip should be to chart a common course for a broad array of U.S. allies that are confronted with multiple threats emanating from Syria.

James Phillips is the senior research fellow for Middle Eastern affairs at the Douglas and Sarah Allison Center for Foreign Policy Studies at The Heritage Foundation. He has written extensively on Middle Eastern issues and international terrorism since 1978.

This article originally appeared on the Daily Signal.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Read full articleJimmy Kimmel broke down last weeks headline-making ruling allowing a California bakery to refuse to make cakes for same-sex weddings as only Jimmy Kimmel can.

On Fridays installment of ABCs Jimmy Kimmel Live!, he played waiter to a group of four customers in a cheeky Food For Thought skit. As the patrons attempt to place their orders, however, the host cited personal characteristics as a reason they wouldnt be allowed to consume their dish of choice.

One customer is denied one of the restaurants signature salads because shes a lesbian. Similarly, a Jewish customer isnt allowed to order the lasagna, while the steak is off the menu, too, because the chef is Hindu.

Kimmels skit was a nod to a controversial case involving Tastries Bakery of Bakersfield, California. Kern County Superior Court Judge David Lampe issued a ruling in the case last Monday in favor of bakery owner Cathy Miller.

Mireya and Eileen Rodriguez-Del Rio spoke out against the bakery in August 2017, claiming that Miller had turned them away when she found out they were seeking a wedding cake. Miller confirmed the couples claims and pointed to her Christian faith, which will not allow me to participate in things that I feel are wrong.

Californias Department of Fair Housing had been seeking an injunction that would either require Miller to prepare wedding cakes for same-sex couples or force her to stop selling them entirely. Its this request that Lampe denied, and his decision hinged on the fact that the cake had not yet been baked. It would have been a discriminatory act, he said in his ruling, if Miller had refused to sell a finished cake to the couple.

An attorney for the Rodriguez-Del Rios told 23 ABC News her clients were disappointed by the ruling against the preliminary injunction, but stressed, Our fight against bigotry and discrimination is only beginning.

LGBTQ rights advocates will be watching closely the outcome of a similar, higher profile case argued before the Supreme Court late last year. Justices are expected to rule soon on the case of Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission, deciding whether Colorado baker Jack Phillips was illegally discriminating against a same-sex couple when he refused to create a cake for their wedding ceremony.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Kathy Griffins red carpet drought is officially over. On Sunday night, the comedian made an appearance at the Writers Guild Awards and even presented an award. This marks the first time Griffin walked a red carpet since May 2017, when she slowly retreated from the spotlight after posing for a photo that almost ended her career.

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Feels great to be back, she wrote on Instagram alongside an image of herself standing in front of a podium while presenting an award.

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At the awards show, which wasnt televised, she actually slammed the Writers Guild. But first she addressed her new look. Its me, Kathy Griffin  I got a haircut and I lost my career in a day. Hi!, she began before giving out the nights animation award. I just want to thank all the powerful writers and showrunners in this room for f***ing no support. Where the f*** have you been?I was supposed to thank everyone for their support, and no one [lifted] their finger.

Griffin went on to express a desire for people to learn from her jarring experience being ostracized by Hollywood. Since May 30, 2017, when a picture in which Griffin appeared to be holding President Donald Trumps severed head was shared on her social media accounts, she has lain low, lifting her head only for press conferences and videos about the scandal.

Comedian Kathy Griffin poses at the 2018 Writers Guild Awards at the Beverly Hilton on Feb. 11, 2018, in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)

Honestly, if you think it cant happen to you, it can, and it can happen like that, she said, snapping her fingers. You may have hated that photo, and thats OK, but if one of your 12-year-old kids puts it on Twitter, they shouldnt have to be under a two-month federal investigation, be on the No Fly List and the Interpol list.

After complaining about not being in the Writers Guild and about her inability to get on a union show  in part, she claimed, because shes a 57-year-old woman  she admitted that she was, in earnest, very honored to be here.

The photo landed her in a federal investigation and ousted from CNNs New Years Eve special. But the federal investigation closed this summer, and clearly, shes still as ballsy as ever.

Read more from Yahoo Entertainment:Big hair, do care! (Photo: Patrick Demarchelier for Allure)

Lupita Nyongo has an Oscar, a beauty contract with Lancome Paris, and a history-making role in Black Panther. But as she explains in the latest issue of Allure, she was once held back by an all-too-familiar self-esteem issue: disdain for her natural hair.

In the revealing interview, Nyongo opens up about changing her hair to fit in with her classmates, the moment she first decided to shave her head, and trying to find a good hairstylist in Mexico. (Spoiler alert: It wasnt easy. Id have to take the bus to Mexico City to find a woman who could braid my hair. That was two and a half hours away.)

As a child, Nyongo says, she was envious of girls with thicker, longer, more lush hair. She begged her mother to let her straighten her curls with a chemical hair relaxer. Her mom, who had relaxed hair herself, wanted Nyongo to wait until she turned 18 and truly understood the decision. But as she waited for her 18th birthday, Nyongo had such a rough time with being teased and feeling really unpretty. Her dad jumped in and persuaded her mom to take Nyongo to the stylist for a relaxer. I felt so much better because it was easier to tame, said Nyongo. All the girls in my class had their hair relaxed. Very few had natural kink, so I felt a lot more acceptable.

She may have felt more comfortable among her classmates, but Nyongo quickly realized that relaxed hair is a commitment. Between weekly styling and monthly retouching, she was spending more time (and money!) at the salon in the name of good hair.

I remember doing crazy things, like sleeping with my head above the headboard so that my curls wouldnt get messed up for the next day. Id have these terrible neck aches because I was determined to keep my hair as pristine as possible, she says.

Around 18 or 19, Nyongo discovered her signature style, the close-cropped shave  all thanks to money problems. I didnt have a job or anything, so it was really my parents paying for my hair. So I was once asking for some more money to get my hair done and my dad joked, Why dont you just cut it all off? And a few months later, I thought to myself, Why dont I? I went into the hair salon, and I said, Lets cut it off.' She describes the moment as scary but so liberating.

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She loved the new look, but her mom had a very different reaction. It was hard to see the horror on my mothers face. She was so disapproving, and I was so sensitive about it at the time that I started to get scared that I had done the wrong thing, she said. Her dad, on the other hand, took two weeks to even notice the change.

Now, thanks in part to hairstylist Vernon Francois, Nyongos hair is the longest its been in more than a decade. She lives by layering on products, using the LOC method: liquid, oil, then cream. Its the idea that you wet your hair first, then you add oil so that it can trap the moisture in, then you put a moisturizer or a cream over it, she explains. Nyongo has even experimented with YouTube DIYs to maintain her natural hair texture, including using honey and rosemary water and avocado-paste conditioning.

Braids and beads. Lupita Nyongo dons a beautiful braided do on the cover of Allure. (Photo: Patrick Demarchelier for Allure)

Nyongos hair has been through relaxers, plaits, and avocado paste, but shes learned the value in the journey. Her motto? Hair is like clay in the right hands. Clay can be dirt in the wrong hands, but clay can be art in the right hands. With Nyongo, its always art.

For Nyongos full story and to see more from the mags Culture of Hair issue, visit allure.com.

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Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.



Talent comes in all shapes, sizes, and species. Just ask Joanne Lefson of Farm Sanctuary South Africa. She rescued Pigcasso from an industrial hog farm when she was a piglet. Lefson quickly noticed the pig was surprisingly interested in paintbrushes. She decided to give Pigcasso a canvas and paints. Soon, the adorable 3-year-old animal was showing off her talent and was dubbed Pigcasso the painting pig. Pigcasso takes her name after the extraordinary artist Pablo Picasso (in case you hadnt figured that out). The lovable pig finds inspiration in her every day farm life. Her fellow animals are also her biggest fans. This isnt just a hobby for the art loving animal. Pigcasso has her own exhibit showing in South Africa. Her masterpieces are available for sale on the Farm Sanctuary SA website as well as her own online shop, with all of the sales benefiting the farm animal rescue organization.Mike Pence and South Korean President Moon Jae-in laugh during the ladies' 500 meters short-track speedskating in the Gangneung Ice Arena at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Gangneung, South Korea - AP

United States vice president Mike Pence has raised the prospect of direct talks without preconditions between Washington and North Korea, while continuing to impose tough sanctions on the regime.

His remarks follow widespread criticism of his failure to engage with a high level North Korean delegation at the opening of South Koreas Winter Olympics at the weekend, which analysts described as a squandered opportunity.

As he flew out of Seoul on Air Force Two, Mr Pence walked back from Washingtons previous hard-line stance that there would be no negotiations before Pyongyang made real concessions, telling the Washington Post that talks could start while the pressure campaign is ongoing.

The point is, no pressure comes off until they are actually doing something that the alliance believes represents a meaningful step toward denuclearisation, he said. So the maximum pressure is going to continue and intensify. But if you want to talk, well talk, he said.

The change in policy suggests real progress was made on the sidelines of the Olympic Games, despite the overt chilliness between Mr Pence and the Norths delegation, which included Kim Jong-uns younger sister, Kim Yo-jong.

The new strategy was conceived while watching Olympic speedskating heats on Saturday evening with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, whose government is considering an invitation from Kim Jong-un to attend a rare summit in Pyongyang.

The invite, which was hand-delivered by Kim Yo-jong during a lunch at the presidential palace, has revived hopes of an end to a tense international stand-off with North Korea over its nuclear and weapons programme.

Ms Kim appeared to charm South Koreas media with her near-permanent smile as she conducted a whirlwind round of diplomacy as the first member of the Kim dynasty to visit the South since the Korean War of 1950-1953.

However, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson stressed on Monday that it was still too early to judge whether the latest developments represented the start of a diplomatic process

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Weve said for some time its really up to the North Koreans to decide when theyre ready to engage with us in a sincere way, a meaningful way, Mr Tillerson told reporters during a trip to Egypt. They know what has to be on the table for conversations.

Dr Tony Michell, a North Korea expert and managing director of the Euro-Asian business consultancy, said President Moon would likely wait until after the mid-June local elections if he decided to go to Pyongyang.

He has some time and the real question is how far can he modify the American line to allow meaningful talks to take place? he said.

One negotiating option could be a freeze for a freeze, where North Korea would put its nuclear and missile tests on hold in exchange for the scaling down of joint US and South Korean military drills, suggested Dr Michell.

However, Seouls regional ally Japan has urged caution. On a trip to Brunei, Taro Kono, Japans foreign minister, warned the world to remember that North Korea remained committed to its internationally-opposed nuclear and missile development programme.

Without being swayed by [North Koreas] smile diplomacy, Japan will firmly coordinate with [the US and South Korea] towards the ultimate goal of denuclearising the Korean Peninsula, he said.2 to die, 4 others on life term for murder

Court Correspondent :

The Speedy Trial Tribunal- 4 of Dhaka on Monday sentenced two persons to death and four others to life term in the murder case of Khalilur Rahman, former Secretary General of National Blind Welfare Organisation.

Judge Abdur Rahman Sardar of the Speedy Trial Tribunal passed the order.

The death sentenced convicts are Ramjan Ali alias Ramjan and Tipu alias Hira.

The life term sentenced convicts are National Blind Welfare Organisation leaders Minhaj, Hasanur Rahman Rubel (fugitive), Mohammad Shaheed Mostafa and Jahidul Islam alias Jahid. The court also fined them Tk 20,000 each. In default, they have to serve one year more in the prison.

However, the court acquitted National Blind Welfare Organisation leader Ayub Ali, visually impaired Nurul Alam Siddik, Sohag Hossain Hawlader and another visually impaired Yaqub Ali.

The brief prosecution story says, slain Khalilur Rahman had enmity with convicted Minhaj and Ayub Ali about election of National Blind Welfare Organisation. As a result Khalilur Rahman was shot to dead on January 2, 2011.

Later, the victim's brother visually impaired Zahidul Islam filed a murder case with Mirpur Police Station in the city. DB police inspector Nibaron Chandra Bormon submitted the charge sheet of the case to the court against 10 persons on July 31, 2013.

The court gave the verdict of the case considering depositions of 14 witnesses and other evidences.

By Jane Chung GANGNEUNG, South Korea (Reuters) - A 137-strong North Korean orchestra wrapped up its first performance in South Korea on Thursday, serenading hundreds of South Koreans with familiar tunes while dozens of protesters blasted their own music outside to the beat of drums. The Samjiyon Band's performance comes a day before South Korea opens its first Winter Olympics, amid a thaw in ties with North Korea highlighted by the first visit by its leader Kim Jong Un's sister, who is set to arrive on Friday. Performing in the coastal city of Gangneung, the art troupe played songs from both North and South Korea, starting with a well-known North Korean song "Nice to Meet You," and also played a medley of Western tunes, including one from Broadway musical "Phantom of the Opera". "They played popular songs so we could enjoy the concert and it was beyond my expectations," said Jun Sang-sik, a 37-year-old public official who came with his 9-year-old daughter. "My daughter said she felt proud after seeing South and North Korea performing together." The 90-minute performance ended without an encore despite the audience's request, but a North Korean host of the event thanked spectators for the warm welcome. THAW The thaw between North and South ahead of the Olympics comes at a time when Pyonyang is under tightening U.N. sanctions imposed over its nuclear and missile program, having tested missiles last year that could hit other continents. Pyongyang has engaged in a war of words with South Korea's military ally the United States. President Donald Trump has belittled North Korea's leader Kim as "little Rocket Man" and threatened to respond to threats with "fire and fury". On Tuesday, U.S. disarmament ambassador Robert Wood dismissed the overtures to the South as a distraction from North Korea's hostile aims: What I would call the charm offensive frankly is fooling no one, Wood told a U.N. conference. The performance is the first by North Koreans in the South since 2000, when another orchestra crossed the border for a joint concert to mark Korea's Liberation Day on Aug. 15. More than 150,000 South Koreans entered a lottery for tickets to the two performances the North Korean troupe will hold in South Korea. A random selection saw 780 winners receive two tickets each, the government said in a statement. A total of 812 people attended Thursday's show, among them 252 special invitees picked separately by the government. About five minutes away from the concert hall, 80 protesters staged a demonstration in sub-zero temperatures, blasting out songs opposing the Pyeongchang Olympics and beating on drums. A barricade of about 100 police kept the protesters away from the performance site. "They are here to make fools of South Koreans, and I cannot accept that," said 71-year-old Kwon Oh-seok, adding that he had traveled from Seoul, the capital, to protest against the performance. South Korea temporarily lifted a ban on North Korean ships to allow the Mangyongbong 92 ferry carrying the troupe to enter the eastern port of Mukho on Monday. The North's orchestra will stage its second and last performance in Seoul on Sunday. (Reporting by Jane Chung; Editing by Christine Kim, Clarence Fernandez and Peter Graff)The NBC commentator who was skewered by viewers for insensitive remarks he made during the Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Pyeongchang, South Korea, is no longer covering the games, the broadcaster announced on Monday.

Joshua Cooper Ramo has completed his responsibilities for NBC in Pyeongchang, and will have no further role on our air, an NBC spokesman told Reuters. The network also said Ramo had been hired only for the opening ceremonies of the games.

Ramo, a former journalist who served as an on-air analyst for NBC, infuriated Koreans on Friday when he flippantly commented on the history between Japan and South Korea during the opening ceremony. Spotting Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Ramo mused that every Korean will tell you that Japan is a cultural and technological and economic example, has been so important to their own transformation.

Though Ramo acknowledged that Japan occupied Korea from 1910 to 1945, Koreans and others blasted the commentator for glossing over this brutal history, which included the sexual slavery of tens of thousands of Korean women during World War II. To this day, the former occupation continues to strain the relationship between the two nations.

Joshua Cooper Ramo pictured in 2010. (Photo: Johannes Simon via Getty Images)

Facing intense backlash, including displeasure from the Pyeongchang Organizing Committee and a petition signed by thousands who called Ramos comments deeply hurtful and outrageous, NBC publicly apologized on Sunday for his remark.

We apologized quickly both in writing and on television for a remark made by one of our presenters during Friday nights opening ceremony, a spokesman said. Were very gratified that Pyeongchangs organizing committee has accepted that apology.

Clarification: Language in this story has been updated to include NBCs explanation that Ramo had only been hired to cover the Olympic Games opening ceremonies.

Related...

The 2018 Winter Olympics In Pyeongchang, By The Numbers

Here's Maybe The Definitive Way To Pronounce 'Pyeongchang'

Story continues

17-Year-Old Snowboarder Wins United States First Gold Medal In Pyeongchang

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.The wife of the Ohio man suspected of killing two police officers on Saturday hid in the bushes as she called 911 to report that her husband had shot the cops, according to an audio recording of the call.

Westerville Police Department officers Eric Joering, 39, and Anthony Morelli, 54, were allegedly shot dead by Quentin Smith after responding to a 911 hangup call. The call, which prompted officers to respond to the scene, came in just around noon on Saturday. In it, a woman can be heard crying before the line goes dead, the Cincinnati Enquirer reported.

After dispatchers' attempts to return the call sent them to voicemail, Joering and Morelli went to the house, which had a history of domestic violence calls, according to the Columbus Dispatch.

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RTX4UZBG

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In the following call, the woman pleads for help.

Please help, please help, she asks the dispatcher.

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My husband shot the police officers, the woman adds, telling the dispatcher she is hiding in the bushes while her one-year-old daughter is inside. She reported Smith shot one of the officers as he came into the house.

I dont hear my daughter crying anymore, the woman says.

Officers later said they had found her daughter on the couch and held Smith at gunpoint.

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Police have not released many details about the way the events transpired, but did say that Smith had injuries and was transported from the home.

Authorities had responded to the house as recently as three weeks ago for a reported disturbance, records obtained by the Enquirer showed. At the time, the home's residents told police that there was nothing amiss.

Smiths wife had told police in November that her husband illegally carried a gun all of the time, according to the Enquirer. Smith was convicted of burglary in 2008, barring him for possessing a firearm.

Story continues

Authorities have not released which type of gun was used in the shooting.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekCountry hopping isnt just for travelers anymore  its for Olympic level athletes as well.

At the 2018 Olympics, roughly 6 percent of the athletes, or 178 Olympians, are competing for a country they werent born in. The only requirement in the Olympic Charter is that an athlete be a national of the country for which he or she is competing.

Anyone who wants to compete for a different country must do so three years after they last competed for the previous country.

Viktor Ahn, of Russia, gestures while holding his medal during the medals ceremony at the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. (AP)

Ahn Hyun-soo won four Olympic medals  three golds and a bronze  competing as a speed skater for South Korea in 2006. But after disputes and what his father stated was lack of support from the South Korean skating association, Ahn began competing for Russia as Viktor Ahn. After receiving citizenship, he won three more golds and another bronze at the 2014 Sochi Olympics  seven years after he last competed for his birth country.

Many athletes switch countries because other federations are able to devote more resources to them.

Speedskaters Carlijn Schoutens and Ted-Jan Bloemen are Dutch-American and Dutch-Canadian dual citizens respectively. And both opted to not compete for the Netherlands where they grew up because of how difficult it was to qualify for the powerhouse Dutch speed skating team, which left Sochi with 23 Olympic medals.

Maame Biney, the first black woman on the U.S. Olympic speedskating team, advanced Saturday in the 500-meter short-track event with a veteran-like performance in the first round at the Winter Olympics. (AP)

Fellow speed skater Maame Biney took the opposite approach. She was born in Ghana, but moved to the United States when she was five. Biney qualified as the first African-American woman and will compete in the 500m and 1500m events in PyeongChang.

And host countries dont shy away from foreign athletes. According to CapRelo, 18 athletes from the Korean delegation are not Korean. They include ice dancers Alexander Gamelin (American) and Kirill Minov (Russia), both of whom switched countries to compete in the Olympics with their South Korean-born partners. Biathletes Anna Frolina and Timofey Lapshin are also among the athletes whove to representing South Korea in time to compete in PyeongChang.

Story continues

Switching countries also allows athletes the chance to live out their Olympic dreams

Twelve different countries in PyeongChang have athletes exclusively born in other countries  including Tonga, Nigeria, Bermuda and Thailand.

Tongas flag-bearer Pita Taufatofua stunned viewers by appearing topless at the ceremony. (AFP)

Summer and winter Olympic flag bearer Pita Nikolas Taufatofua, better known as the shirtless Tongan, was actually born in Australia. The three members of the Nigerian bobsledding team  Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeogaz  were all born in the United States.

But no matter the country they were born in, represent or have represented, theyll all be vying for an Olympic medal.Oxfam has been accused of lying and failing in its moral leadership over the scandal surrounding its aid workers in Haiti.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt branded the behaviour of some Oxfam staff members a complete betrayal, as she warned the charity the scandal had put its relationship with the Government at risk.

Oxfam has been accused of trying to cover up allegations of sexual misconduct by workers in Haiti in 2011.

An investigation by the Times newspaper found the charity had sacked four people for gross misconduct and allowed three to resign over allegations that charity workers had invited groups of young prostitutes to sex parties at their guesthouse.

Ms Mordaunt told BBC1s The Andrew Marr Show that the failure to pass on information to relevant authorities shows an absolute absence of leadership.

Complete betrayal  International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt has branded the behaviour of some Oxfam staff a complete betrayal (Picture: PA)

Asked by Marr if she thought Oxfam had failed in its moral leadership, Ms Mordaunt replied: Yes, I do.

She said she would meet the charity on Monday to discuss the case, adding: If the moral leadership at the top of the organisation is not there then we can not have you as a partner.

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Charities, including Oxfam, have been told they will have funding withdrawn if they fail to comply with authorities over safeguarding issues.

The Charity Commission said on Saturday that it had written to Oxfam as a matter of urgency to request further information, saying in a statement: Our approach to this matter would have been different had the full details that have been reported been disclosed to us at the time.

More information  the Charity Commission has written to Oxfam as a matter of urgency to request further information (Picture: Getty)

Ms Mordaunt said Oxfam had done absolutely the wrong thing by failing to inform authorities about the full details of the allegations.

In a further warning, she said: If they do not hand over all the information that they have from their investigation and subsequently to the relevant authorities, including the Charity Commission and prosecuting authorities, then I cannot work with them any more as an aid delivery partner.

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Four members of Oxfam staff were dismissed and three, including the country director, resigned before the end of the 2011 investigation.

The charity said allegations that under-age girls may have been involved were not proven.

(Top picture: PA)London (AFP) - The deputy chief executive of Oxfam resigned on Monday over the British charity's handling of a prostitution scandal in Haiti involving its staff members and allegations of similar behaviour in Chad.

"As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility," Penny Lawrence said in a statement.

Oxfam has faced severe criticism for a lack of transparency over misconduct allegations against staff members accused of using prostitutes in Haiti following a devastating 2010 earthquake.

The charity has denied covering up the scandal.

Oxfam's chair of trustees Caroline Thomson and chief executive Mark Goldring had been called to explain themselves at a meeting earlier on Monday with International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt.

The minister has threatened to cut government funding for the charity unless it shows "moral leadership".

Oxfam received A31.7 million (35.7 million euros, $43.8 million) from state coffers last year.

The allegations centre around Roland van Hauwermeiren who was Oxfam's country director for Haiti and was previously the head of the charity's mission in Chad.

Oxfam investigated sexual misconduct allegations in 2011 and van Hauwermeiren was one of three staff members who resigned while four others were dismissed.

"Over the last few days we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed adequately to act upon.

"It is now clear that these allegations -- involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the Country Director and members of his team in Chad -- were raised before he moved to Haiti," Lawrence said in her statement.London (AFP) - The deputy chief executive of Oxfam resigned on Monday over the British charity's handling of a prostitution scandal in Haiti involving its staff members and allegations of similar behaviour in Chad.

"As programme director at the time, I am ashamed that this happened on my watch and I take full responsibility," Penny Lawrence said in a statement.

Oxfam has faced severe criticism for a lack of transparency over misconduct allegations against staff members accused of using prostitutes in Haiti following a devastating 2010 earthquake.

The charity has denied covering up the scandal.

Oxfam's chair of trustees Caroline Thomson and chief executive Mark Goldring were called to explain themselves at a meeting on Monday with International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt.

The minister said in a statement that she had issued a letter to all charities working overseas to demand that they "do more... so that we have absolute assurance" in their moral leadership.

Mordaunt also announced plans to tackle sexual exploitation and abuse "across the UN and other international organisations".

Thomson described the meeting as "very challenging but constructive", adding that Oxfam was in "total agreement" with Mordaunt's proposals.

"We recognise that we have some way to go to persuade her that we have the right moral leadership to be fully entrusted with public money," Thomson said.

"But we are committed to working with her, DFID and the Charity Commission to prove we can meet her expectations," she said in a statement, referring to the Department for International Development.

- Funding threatened -

Oxfam received 31.7 million (35.7 million euros, $43.8 million) from state coffers last year, and Mordaunt warned that could be under threat, saying "we will not work with any organisation that does not live up to the high standards on safeguarding and protection that we require".

Story continues

The EU on Monday also said that the bloc would withhold funding if charities breached ethical standards.

"We expect Oxfam to fully clarify the allegations with maximum transparency as a matter of urgency, and we're ready to review and, if needed, cease funding to any partner who is not living up to the required high ethical standards," EU spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic told reporters.

The allegations centre around Roland van Hauwermeiren, who was Oxfam's country director for Haiti and was previously the head of the charity's mission in Chad.

Oxfam investigated sexual misconduct allegations in 2011 and van Hauwermeiren was one of three staff members who resigned while four others were dismissed.

Investigations into the seven men examined the use of prostitutes, downloading of pornography, bullying and intimidation.

The Times newspaper, which broke the story, reported on Monday that the charity knew of allegations about van Hauwermeiren's conduct during a previous posting in Chad, but still appointed him to direct its response to the Haiti earthquake.

- 'Desperately sorry' -

"Over the last few days we have become aware that concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed adequately to act upon," Lawrence said in her statement.

"It is now clear that these allegations -- involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the Country Director and members of his team in Chad -- were raised before he moved to Haiti.

"I am desperately sorry for the harm and distress that this has caused to Oxfam's supporters, the wider development sector and most of all the vulnerable people who trusted us."

Goldring accepted Lawrence's resignation, saying he "deeply respected" the move.

"Like us, she is appalled at what happened and is determined to do what is best for Oxfam and the people we exist to help," he said.

Oxfam also did not inform French charity Action Against Hunger about the circumstances of van Hauwermeiren's dismissal, and he went on to work as its mission chief in Bangladesh from 2012 to 2014.

The director of investigations at Britain's Charity Commission, which regulates the voluntary sector, accused Oxfam of not giving them the full story during the investigation.

"Had the details of what has come out been told to us, we would have dealt with this very differently," Michelle Russell told BBC Radio 4.The maker of painkiller OxyContin will stop promoting opioid drugs to doctors and will slash its sales force by half, a decision that follows the company receiving a barrage of lawsuits that cite the ongoing opioid epidemic.

Drug manufacturer Purdue Pharma, in a statement released on Saturday, said its remaining 200 sales representatives will no longer visit doctors offices to advertise the highly addictive painkillers.

We have restructured and significantly reduced our commercial operation and will no longer be promoting opioids to prescribers, the Connecticut-based company said in a statement obtained by Reuters.

Purdue Pharma, which manufactures the prescription painkiller OxyContin, has said that it will no longer be promoting opioids at doctors' offices. (Photo: George Frey / Reuters)

The decision comes after states, cities and counties filed lawsuits against Purdue Pharma and other companies, accusing them of fueling the opioid epidemic by favoring profits over human health.

Opioids, including prescription opioids, heroin and fentanyl, killed more than 42,000 people in 2016, the highest death toll ever recorded, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Nearly half of those deaths, at around 40 percent, involved a prescription opioid, the CDC said.

OxyContin, Purdue Pharmas biggest-selling drug, generated the company $1.8 billion in 2017  down from $2.8 billion five years earlier, Bloomberg reported citing market researcher Symphony Health Solutions.

Purdue Pharma has defended its business practices, arguing that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved its drugs, which account for only 2 percent of all opioid prescriptions.

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Because Most Americans Are Unenthusiastic About It

Only 7 percent of Americans think the United States is winning the war on drugs, and few Americans are interested in throwing down more money to try to win, according to a Rasmussen Reports poll released in 2012.

Because The U.S. Won't Control The Flow Of Guns Into Latin America

Mexican authorities seized almost 70,000 weapons of U.S. origin from 2007 to 2011. In 2004, the U.S. Congress declined to renew a 10-year ban on the sale of assault weapons. They quickly became the guns of choice for Mexican drug cartels. Some 60,000 people have died in Mexico since President Felipe Calderon launched a military assault on the cartels in 2006.

Because The United States Leads The Hemisphere In Drug Consumption

Story continues

Americans have the highest rate of illegal drug consumption in the world, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

Because The U.S. Ignores Latin American Calls For A Rethinking Of Drug Policy

Several current and former Latin American presidents, like Fernando Henrique Cardoso, have urged the United States to rethink its failed war on drugs, to no avail.

Because Of The Fast And Furious Scandal

In an attempt to track guns as they moved across the U.S.-Mexico border, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms allowed smugglers to purchase weapons. The ATF lost track of the guns and they wound up in the hands of drug cartels -- even as far south as Colombia.

Because American Politicians Refuse To Candidly Lead A Debate On Reforming Our Laws

Though the subject of marijuana legalization regularly ranks among the most popular at the digital town halls President Obama takes part in, he declines to address the issue or give it a thoughtful answer. Incidentally, a younger Obama supported marijuana decriminalization and a rethinking of the drug war.

Because The U.S. Tortures Detainees In Cuba

Almost 800 prisoners accused of terrorism have have been held at the U.S. military prison of Guantanamo, Cuba, where they are detained indefinitely without facing trial. The United States has drawn international criticism from human rights defenders for subjecting the detainees there to torture and other cruel treatment. The Cuban government opposes hosting the U.S. naval base on its soil.

Because The U.S. Has The World's Largest Prison Population

The United States has the world's largest prison population by far -- largely fed by the war on drugs -- at 500 per 100,000 people.

Because The U.S. Jails Undocumented Immigrants Guilty Of Civil Violations

Because the United States imprisons roughly 400,000 immigrants each year on civil violations.

Because The Border Patrol Kills Kids Who Throw Rocks

The U.S. Border Patrol has come under fire for killing minors who were throwing rocks.

Because The U.S. Recognized An Illegal Government In Venezuela

When opponents of leftwing Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez briefly ousted him in 2002, the United States not only failed to condemn the coup, it praised the coup leaders.

Because U.S. Extradition Undermines Justice In Colombia

When Colombia demobilized the largest rightwing paramilitary organization in 2006, if offered lenient sentences to those who would offer details on the atrocities the AUC committed. But rather than facing justice in their home country, Colombia has extradited several paramilitary leaders to the United States to face drug trafficking charges -- marking it harder for people like Bela Henriquez to find out the details surrounding the murders of their loved ones. "More than anger, I feel powerless," Henriquez, whose father, Julio, was kidnapped and killed on the orders of one defendant, told ProPublica. "We don't know what they are negotiating, what conditions they are living under. What guarantee of justice do we have?"

Because The U.S. Helped Create Today's Cartels

The U.S funded the Guatemalan military during the 1960s and 1970s anti-insurgency war, despite awareness of widespread human rights violations. Among the recipients of U.S military funding and training were the Kaibiles, a special force unit responsible for several massacres. Former Kaibiles have joined the ranks of the Zetas drug cartel.

Because The U.S. Backed An Argentine Military Dictatorship That Killed 30,000 People

The rightwing military dictatorship that took over Argentina in 1976 "disappeared" some 30,000 people, according to estimates by several human rights organizations. They subjected countless others to sadistic forms of torture and stole dozens of babies from mothers they jailed and murdered. The military junta carried out the so-called "Dirty War" with the full knowledge and support of the Nixon administration.

Because The U.S. Helped Topple The Democratically Elected Government Of Salvador Allende

When it became clear that socialist Salvador Allende would likely win the presidency in Chile, U.S. President Richard Nixon told the CIA to "make the economy scream" in order to "prevent Allende from coming to power or to unseat him," according to the National Security Archive. Augusto Pinochet overthrew Allende in a bloody coup on Sept. 11, 1973, torturing and disappearing thousands of his political rivals with the backing of the U.S. government.

Because the U.S. Backed A Military Coup In Brazil In 1964

The Brazilian military overthrew the democratically elected government of Joao Goulart in 1964, with the enthusiastic support of President Lyndon Johnson, ushering in two decades of repressive government.

Because The U.S. Funded A Terrorist Group In Nicaragua

The Reagan administration funded the Contra rebels against the Marxist Sandinista government in Nicaragua. Regarded by many as terrorists, the Contras murdered, tortured and raped civilians. When human rights organizations reported on the crimes, the Reagan administration accused them of working on behalf of the Sandinistas.

Because The U.S. Helped Finance Atrocities In Colombia

Through Plan Colombia, the U.S. has pumped over $6 billion into Colombia's military and intelligence service since 2002. The intelligence service has been disbanded for spying on the Supreme Court and carrying out smear campaigns against the justices, as well as journalists, members of Congress and human rights activists. The military faces numerous allegations of human rights abuse, including the practice of killing non-combatants from poor neighborhoods and dressing them up as guerrillas to inflate enemy casualty statistics.

Because The U.S. Maintains A Trade Embargo Against Cuba Despite Opposition From The Entire World

For 21 years, the U.N. has condemned the U.S. embargo against Cuba and for 21 years the United States has ignored it. Some 188 nations voted against the embargo this year, with only the U.S. itself, Israel, Palau opposing.

Because The U.S. Engineered A Coup Against The Democratically Elected Government Of Guatemala In 1954

At the behest of United Fruit Company, a U.S. corporation with extensive holdings in Central America, the CIA helped engineer the overthrow of the Guatemalan government in 1954, ushering in decades of civil war that resulted in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives.

Because The U.S. Backed The Salvadoran Military As It Committed Atrocities In The 1980s

El Salvador's military committed atrocities throughout the 1980s with U.S. funding.

Because The U.S. Invaded Haiti and Occupied It For Almost 20 Years

Woodrow Wilson ordered the Marines to invade and occupy Haiti in 1915 after the assassination of the Haitian president. The troops didn't leave until 1934.

Because The U.S. Invaded Haiti Again In 1994

One invasion wasn't good enough. The U.S. military returned in 1994.

Because The U.S. Trained Military Leaders Who Committed Atrocities In Latin America

The School of the Americas in Ft. Benning, Georgia, trained soldiers and generals responsible for massacres and torture of tens of thousands of Latin Americans, according to Al Jazeera.

Because The U.S. Backed Dictator Rafael Trujillo

Rafael Trujillo Sr. (Photo by Hank Walker//Time Life Pictures/Getty Images)

Because The U.S. Invaded Cuba And Undermined The Island's Independence

The so-called "Spanish-American War" began in 1868 with the first of a series of three wars for Cuban independence. In 1898, the U.S. got involved, invading Cuba and occupying the island after forcing Spain to give it. The United States then forced Cuba to accept the odious Platt Amendent to its Constitution, which allowed the United States to intervene in the country militarily and established the U.S. military base at Guantanamo.

Because The U.S. Colonized Puerto Rico

As long as you're invading Cuba, why not take Puerto Rico as well? The United States invaded in 1898 and the island remains a U.S. territory today.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Jesus Berrones has a wife who is five months pregnant and a 5-year-old son who is fighting leukemia, and now the 30-year-old, who has lived in the United States since he was a toddler, is facing deportation.

Berrones has been told to surrender to immigration officers on Monday.

Instead, he has been given sanctuary at the Shadow Rock United Church of Christ in Phoenix, where he and his wife, Sonia, are now staying with their five children.

"I will fight to stay here," Berrones told CBS News. His parents migrated to America in 1989, bringing a very young Berrones with them. This country is the only home he remembers.

He is now the sole financial supporter of his wife and five children. His wife, Sonia, is unsure how they would survive if her husband is deported.

"His kids need him," she said. "I need him." His wife and children are U.S. citizens.

He has been ordered out of the county twice before, in 2006 and 2010, and both times he managed to sneak back in, once by crossing the Arizona desert.

Berrones does not qualify for DACA consideration. His latest appeal to stay in the country was denied Thursday by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials.

Rev. Ken Heintzelman says Berrones should be allowed to stay. "He shouldn't be prosecuted. He should be lifted up, used as an example of what it means to be a father.

Berrones' attorney, Garrett Wilkes, is awaiting word from ICE, he told InsideEdition.com Monday. Meanwhile, Berrones and his family are inside the church, praying for help.

Immigration officials cannot enter the sanctuary without a warrant signed by a judge, Wilkes said.

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Related Articles:Warsaw (AFP) - Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday called on Poles to refrain from making anti-Semitic statements at a time when the country is under fire over a controversial Holocaust law.

The new law sets fines or a maximum three-year jail term for anyone ascribing "responsibility or co-responsibility to the Polish nation or state for crimes committed by the German Third Reich -- or other crimes against humanity and war crimes" and set off criticism from Israel, the United States and France.

"I would like to invite every one of you to contribute to positive thinking... to avoid anti-Semitic statements, because they are grist to the mill for our enemies, for our adversaries," Morawiecki said at a town hall meeting in the eastern city of Chelm.

"Let's avoid it like the plague, even the dumb, unnecessary jokes. Most importantly, let's all explain together how things really were."

Morawiecki's comments echo those of the influential head of the governing right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party, Jaroslaw Kaczynski.

"Today, the enemies of Poland, one can even say the Devil, are trying a very bad recipe... This sickness is anti-Semitism. We must reject it resolutely," Kaczynski said on Saturday.

Israel this month said it had observed a "wave of anti-Semitic statements" on the internet in Poland, and even in the country's mainstream media.

A recent commentator on the state-run TVP station had made the ironic statement that "we could say these camps were neither German nor Polish but Jewish. Because who operated the crematoria? And who died there?"

Another commentator had sent out a tweet using an offensive term against Jews that translates to "greedy kike".

The main aim of the Holocaust law is to prevent people from erroneously describing Nazi German death camps such as Auschwitz-Birkenau as Polish, simply because they were set up on Polish soil.

Israel has expressed concern that the legislation could open the door to prosecuting Holocaust survivors for their testimony should it concern the involvement of individual Poles for allegedly killing or giving up Jews to the Germans.

Poland was attacked and occupied by Nazi Germany in World War II, losing six million of its citizens including three million Jews.BNP to continue peaceful demo until Khaleda freed

Sit-in program today: Around 4400 held across the country

Hundreds of BNP leaders and activists joined the human chain formed from Kadam Fowara to Purana Paltan intersection as part of the programmes demanding Begum Khaleda Zia\'s immediate release. Secretary General of the party Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir amon

Staff Reporter :

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday said that they vowed to continue peaceful movement to compel the government for early release of the party Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

"The government has imprisoned our Chairperson through a conspiracy. We must continue our peaceful movement until the people's leader is released from jail," he said while addressing a human chain of BNP leaders and activists in front of the Jatiya Press Club.

BNP Standing Committee Members Dr. Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Mirza Abbas, Nazrul Islam Khan, Vice-Chairmen Chowdhury Kamal Ibne Yousuf, Mohammad Shahjahan, Altaf Hossain Chowdhury, Shamsuzzaman Dudu, AZM Zahid Hossain, Barkatullah Bulu and Abdul Awal Mintoo, among other leaders were present in the programme.

Mirza Fakhrul said that the government has imprisoned Khaleda Zia as part of a conspiracy to keep her away from politics and polls. "So, we will never go to national elections without Khaleda Zia. It will not be possible to hold national polls keeping the BNP chief in prison," he said.

A huge number of leaders and activists join the pre announced the human chain programme.

Mirza Fakhrul also asked the leaders and activists to continue such agitation until party chief Khaleda Zia is released.

He told the party men, "You have expressed your anger through joining the human chain programme and chanting slogans braving many obstacles. You have shown opposition against the jailing of our party chairperson Khaleda Zia and showed love for her."

The BNP men took position from Kadam Foara to Topkhana intersection to form the human chain. A huge number of women activists also joined the programme.

The whole areas filled with the BNP men. They chanted different slogans demanding immediate release of the party chief.

Huge number law enforcers were also deployed in and around the area to keep control the law and order situation in the area.

Earlier on Saturday, Rizvi announced a three-day protest programme at a press briefing at the BNP's Nayapaltan central office.

As part of the programme, the party will also hold an hour-long sit-in programme from 11:00am to 12:00pm on Tuesday in front of the Jatiya Press Club and a hunger strike from 9:00am to 5:00pm on Wednesday across the country.

On Thursday last, a special court here convicted Khaleda and sentenced her to five years imprisonment in a graft case.

Earlier, BNP leaders and activists staged demonstrations on Friday and Statuary protesting Khaleda's conviction all over the country, including in the capital, amid obstruction by police.

Besides, BNP Senior Joint-Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Monday claimed that over 4,400 leaders and activists of the party have been detained by the police across the country.

He also said that police has arrested more than 85 party men on Monday across the country, 18 of them from the capital. Among others, the detainees include BNP Vice-Chairman Shamsuzzaman Dudu.





The daughters of absent fathers werent left out at a dance in Salt Lake City, Utah. Police officers and firefighters were in attendance to dance with the daughters of fathers who couldnt make it or are not around.

When I came walking in here, I saw these little girls and it reminded me of when I took my little girls, Sgt. Darren Carr told WAFF 48.

The girls were particularly amused by the hula-hooping contest between their dads, the police, and the firemen.

We didnt want anyone feeling left out, said Carr. Sometimes we see these kids in less-than-desirable circumstances, unfortunately, so its nice to have a better, more fun interaction.

Scenes like this, however, could soon be a thing of the past. Concerns are rising that father-daughter dances will be canceled to conform with new gender policies.

A dance at a Staten Island elementary school was supposed to be canceled, but after the school was given guidance to let anyone attend, the event went ahead. The New York Department of Education had ordered schools to eliminate any gender-specific events.

A memorandum from July 2015 lays out the policy: Gender-based policies, rules, and practices can have the effect of marginalizing, stigmatizing, stereotyping and excluding students, whether they are transgender or GNC [gender nonconforming] or not. For these reasons, school districts should consult with their attorneys to review such policies, rules and practices, and should eliminate any that do not serve a clear pedagogical purpose.

This politically correct stuff has got to stop, Thomas Tirotta, 43, told the New York Post. Tirotta took his 10-year-old daughter, Lila, to the dance at PS 38 on Staten Island this past Friday night.

Its something thats been around for a long time, Tirotta said. Let the people enjoy it, and if you dont like it, dont go.

We are sending a reminder to schools about the guidelines that are in place to ensure school-related events are inclusive of all students and families, a DOE representative, Miranda Barbot, told the Post.

Story continues

Schools have complied in either changing the name of the dances or holding them outside of school grounds.

Theyre trying to take away from the dads, from the good fathers.  Its all political now, Raul Mejia told the Post. Mejia added that he believes events like this serve as a good example to girls about how men should behave. I want to start her young, said Mejia, so she can know how a guy is supposed to treat her.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.(In this Feb. 9 story, corrects 3rd paragraph to show that judges are elected, not appointed) By Joseph Ax (Reuters) - Republican leaders in Pennsylvania's legislature submitted a plan for redrawing the state's congressional districts just hours before Friday's court-ordered deadline, but Democratic Governor Tom Wolf questioned whether the proposal will pass legal muster. The newly-drawn political map was ordered on Jan. 22 by the state Supreme Court, which invalidated the existing congressional district boundaries as an illegal gerrymander created by the Republican-controlled state legislature. In a 5-2 vote along party lines, the high court's Democratic majority of elected judges found the existing map's lines were precisely drawn to deliberately dilute the voting strength of registered Democrats, in violation of the state's constitution. A revamped map of the 18 U.S. House districts in Pennsylvania, a key battleground state in the 2016 presidential race, could reshape the political balance in this year's mid-term electoral battle for control of Congress. Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected an emergency appeal of the state's high court decision, leading top Republicans in the state Senate and House of Representatives to present the governor with a proposed remedy at the 11th hour on Friday. "The Republican legislative leaders in the House and Senate have agreed to a congressional district map that complies fully with the Pennsylvania Supreme Court's order and opinion," state Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati and House Speaker Mike Turzai said in a joint statement. But a spokesman for Wolf suggested the plan would fail to meet the high court's requirements because it lacked approval from the state legislature as a whole. While the courts order did not appear to allow for two individuals to draw a map on behalf of the entire General Assembly, Governor Wolf will review Speaker Turzai and President Scarnatis submission in consultation with the experts retained by the administration to determine his next course of action," the statement said. Wolf has until Feb. 15 to accept or reject the new map. "I intend to do my part to implement the court's order and ensure that fair maps become Pennsylvania's new reality," he said in a statement earlier on Friday. The redrawn map reduces the number of cities and counties split by district lines, among other changes, according to a spokesman from Turzai's office. It wasn't immediately clear if any Democratic lawmakers played a role in devising the proposal. Wolf said he would consider his options if the map were not the result of a "bipartisan process". Mimi McKenzie, legal director of the Public Interest Law Center, one of the groups challenging the existing congressional boundaries in court, said her organization would also review the submitted maps. Legal battles are playing out in several U.S. states over partisan gerrymandering. Pennsylvania has long been seen as one of the worst offenders, with one of its more oddly shaped districts described derisively as "Goofy Kicking Donald Duck". Republicans have held 13 of the state's 18 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives since the current map went into effect for the 2012 election, despite Pennsylvania's status as a closely divided swing state. A redrawing of district lines would likely increase Democratic chances to pick up several seats. The party needs to capture 24 seats nationwide to retake control of the House in November elections. The state Supreme Court said it would draw the lines itself if an acceptable map is not reached by next week - a move Republican leaders have said they would consider challenging in federal court. (Reporting by Joseph Ax in New York, Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee and Chris Kenning in Louisville; Editing by Steve Gorman and Richard Borsuk)Paris (AFP) - France's former budget minister Jerome Cahuzac faces a retrial starting Monday after he was handed a three-year jail sentence for tax fraud in one of the biggest scandals of Francois Hollande's presidency.

Cahuzac resigned in 2013 after becoming a source of huge embarrassment to then president Hollande given that the minister's job was to crack down on tax dodgers.

A plastic surgeon before entering politics, Cahuzac was found guilty in 2016 of funnelling cash into a Swiss bank account from the lucrative hair transplant clinic he ran with his ex-wife.

The 65-year-old appealed his three-year sentence, prompting a full re-trial that could see Cahuzac risk up to five years in prison and a 375,000 euro ($460,000) fine.

His former wife Patricia Menard, who held an account in the Isle of Man that was also used in the fraud, was sentenced to two years in prison.

In France sentences of this length are not usually served behind bars -- instead via an electronic bracelet or other curtailments on a person's liberty -- and she has not appealed the ruling.

Cahuzac, a rising Socialist star who was well respected across the political spectrum, initially denied having a Swiss account after investigative journalism outlet Mediapart reported it in 2012.

Footage of him lying to parliament was repeated in an endless loop on TV news channels after he finally confessed in April 2013, "consumed by remorse", to having the account.

He said in evidence that he hid funds offshore to maintain his family's standard of living, which included buying apartments for his children in London and Paris and paying for holidays in Mauritius.

Along with the jail sentence, he was banned from holding office for five years.

Cahuzac's bank in Geneva, Reyl, was fined 1.9 million euros.

Its boss Francois Reyl was handed a one-year suspended jail term and a 375,000 euro fine for helping Cahuzac move his funds from Switzerland to Singapore using opaque offshore companies.

Story continues

The scandal was the first in a string that haunted Hollande's time in office before he bowed out last year, replaced by centrist Emmanuel Macron who ran on a promise to clean up politics.

The scandal prompted France to set up a national anti-corruption agency and a specialised financial prosecution service.

Hollande also ordered his ministers to disclose their personal wealth, breaking a taboo in a country where politicians' assets had long been considered a private matter.

The retrial is due to run until February 21.Ramadi (Iraq) (AFP) - In Iraq's Sunni-dominated Anbar province, residents struggling to rebuild after years of Islamic State group rule are adamant: there will be no return for the families of jihadists.

Omar Shihan al-Alwani, who fought against the group, warned that revenge awaits the relatives of IS fighters who try to come back.

"Anbar is a tribal society. If someone's brother or father is killed, he takes blood revenge by killing someone from the murderer's tribe," Alwani said.

The bearded 35-year-old wore a red-chequered headscarf as he sat in his traditional reception room, two months since Iraq declared victory over IS.

"We do not want IS fighters to come back and start a spiral of revenge," he said.

"We're totally against that. If they come back then blood will flow and neither tribes nor military operations will be able to stop it."

That sentiment is a far cry from the support the jihadists once enjoyed in the western desert region.

The radical group's predecessor emerged from Iraq's Sunni heartland in 2006 and was welcomed by many Anbaris, who saw it as offering protection against Shiite-dominated authorities in Baghdad.

The jihadists were kicked out by pro-government forces, but five years later, in late 2013, tribal fighters allied with the group revolted against Baghdad.

The jihadists seized the chance to take over large areas of territory.

But many tribes turned against IS, especially as its brutality became apparent.

The group imposed a hardline interpretation of Islam, sending religious "police" to flog people in public and executing members of tribes who refused to pledge allegiance.

- 'Intruders' -

Today residents, still counting the cost of IS rule in blood and destruction, insist they do not want to repeat the errors of the past.

"They are outcasts and society rejects them," said Khamis al-Dahal, 60, as he got his hair cut at a barbershop.

Story continues

"The government is not going to force us to accept back people who killed men, women and children in Anbar."

Some take a more moderate line -- but are still very wary.

"We are not against them returning but the timing is bad and would risk provoking unrest and a return to bloodshed in the streets," said former tribal fighter Omar Ibrahim.

"They should be in a camp under the supervision of the Iraqi government and they should receive daily instruction on how to live together and to combat extremist ideologies."

Some are already living in camps.

Currently around 380 families of jihadists, women and children, are detained in two Anbar camps where conditions are harsh.

Late last year US advocacy group Refugees International reported that women and girls believed to be linked to IS jihadists had been sexually abused by camp guards.

Those who do leave often have nowhere to go.

In the city of Ramadi, residents said houses belonging to the families of IS jihadists have been destroyed -- reprisal for a similar tactic the jihadists used against their enemies.

No one was willing to say who was responsible.

The city is still heavily scarred by fighting and airstrikes by a US-led coalition during a battle that saw it recaptured by government troops in early 2016.

Erfan Ali, Iraq representative for the UN Human Settlements Programme, said that over 8,000 homes are destroyed or badly damaged, as are some 1,200 in the city of Fallujah.

While the jihadists' self-declared cross-border "caliphate" lies in tatters, many still fear Iraq's weak central government will not be able to prevent their return indefinitely.

Such is the fear that some residents have still not dared remove signs of the group's presence.

The graffiti remains daubed across the walls of their houses: "Property of the Islamic State".Rose McGowan paid tribute on social media to her former manager Jill Messick three days after the mother of two died by suicide.

For Jill: May your family find some measure of solace during this pain, McGowan, 44, wrote on Instagram on Saturday.

Messick, 50, was a manager for McGowan in 1997, when the actress says Harvey Weinstein raped her. Weinsten has denied all of McGowans claims of sexual misconduct.

McGowan also appeared to make reference to Weinstein in her Instagram post, writing That one man could cause so much damage is astounding, but tragically true. The bad man did this to us both. May you find peace on the astral plane. May you find serenity with the stars.

Messick took her own life on Wednesday.

In confirming Messicks death, her family said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter: Jill was victimized by our new culture of unlimited information sharing and a willingness to accept statement as fact.

The speed of disseminating information has carried mistruths about Jill as a person, which she was unable and unwilling to challenge, her family continued. She became collateral damage in an already horrific story."

In a recent appearance on The View, McGowan said she told her manager what happened with Weinstein but she got a job with him for seven years right afterwards.

When The View co-host Joy Behar asked what her manager told her to do, McGowan said: I went to the management company, one of the bigger managers than her and I remember one of them said, G** damn it! I told him to stop doing that. I just had an LA Times story killed about him. He owes it to me not to do this.

Messicks family said that she had defended McGowan.

What makes Roses inaccurate accusations and insinuations against Jill ironic was that she was the first person who stood up on Roses behalf, and alerted her bosses to the horrific experience which Rose suffered, the statement said.

Twenty years ago, as a very junior person in a management company hierarchy, Jill exhibited her integrity in doing the right thing  she raised the red flag with the heads of her firm, the family continued. In the face of inappropriate behavior, Jill handled the situation appropriately.

Story continues

Messick, who served as executive producer for the films Masterminds and Baby Mama, had bipolar disorder and privately battled depression for years, her family said.

Her family said Messick chose not to speak out because she didnt want to take attention away from victims of sexual harassment and assault.

She opted not to add to the feeding frenzy, allowing her name and her reputation to be sullied despite having done nothing wrong, the family said. She never chose to be a public figure; that choice was taken away from her.

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Rose McGowan Slams Weinstein: 'The Monster's Face Has Been Everywhere'

Related Articles:We already knew the Toronto Blue Jays planned to honor Roy Halladay with a jersey patch during the 2018 season, but Monday they announced further plans to pay tribute to the gone-too-soon star pitcher.

The Jays said theyll retire Halladays No. 32 jersey on opening day, making him just the second Blue Jays player to have his number retired. Roberto Alomar is the other.

Halladay died in November in a single-passenger plane crash off the coast of Florida. He was only 40. Halladay spent 12 years in a Blue Jays uniform, winning a Cy Young plus 148 games. Heres the Blue Jays announcement video for the number retirement:

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

In announcing the move, Blue Jays president/CEO Mark Shapiro said:

Through Roys values, pride, work ethic, and perseverance, he epitomized what it means to be a Blue Jay. And while his legacy is clear, it goes far beyond the number on his back or his on-field accomplishments, serving as a shining example of how to live a meaningful life and positively impact others.

The Blue Jays arent the only ones who will be honoring Halladay this season. Baltimore Orioles pitcher Kevin Gausman changed his number to 34  the number Halladay wore with the Phillies  to honor Halladay, who Gausman calls his idol.

The Blue Jays announced plans to retire Roy Halladays No. 32 on opening day. (Reuters)

More MLB coverage from Yahoo Sports:

     

Mike Oz is a writer at Yahoo Sports. Contact him at mikeozstew@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!A view shows a scene where a short-haul regional Antonov AN-148 crashed after taking off from Moscow's Domodedovo airport - REUTERS

A Russian plane crashed in the outskirts of Moscow on Sunday after vanishing from radars, killing all 71 people on board.

The Saratov Airlines An-148 jet, was en route to the city of Orsk when it vanished from radar and plunged into a field.

"The plane crashed near the village of Argunovo. Passengers as well as the crew could hardly survive," a Russian emergency services source told local media.

Eyewitnesses in Argunovo said they saw a burning plane falling from the sky, while rescue workers were unable to reach the crash site by road and had to approach on foot.

Video footage obtained by Russian media showed plane debris scattered across a snow-covered field.

Moscow plane crash - Argunovo map

Russian news agencies quoted official sources saying that no one had survived the crash of the Saratov Airlines flight.

Flight records showed that four minutes after takeoff the plane suddenly plunged to the ground from a height of 6,000 feet, crashing in rural area in the Moscow region.

Interfax news agency reported that technical fault was the leading suspected cause of the crash, and that investigators were analysing the plane's black box.

The temperature was -5C with light snow near Domodedovo airport on Sunday afternoon, which is not extreme or challenging weather for this time of year. A meteorologist told state television channel Rossiya 24 that there had not been particularly strong or suddenly changing winds.

Meteorological conditions probably couldn't have directly or indirectly affected the development of the catastrophic situation, said Yevgeny Tishkovets.

An Antonov An-148-100V plane operated by Saratov Airlines

President Vladimir Putin expresses deep condolences to all those who lost family and loved ones in this catastrophe, his spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state news agency TASS.

Mr Putin also ordered the government to create a special commission to look into the causes of the crash. Investigative committee head Alexander Bastrykin personally went to the site of the crash, and the transport oversight agency said it would do a safety audit of Saratov Airlines.

Story continues

Video from the area of the crash uploaded on social media showed fragments of the plane in a snowy field. The person filming the video said letters could be seen on the ground.

Reports said a Russian postal service helicopter had collided with the plane, but the postal service denied it had any helicopters or was involved in any way with the tragedy.

Relatives of the plane's passengers have gathered at the airport in Orsk in the Orenburg region, its intended destination. The emergencies ministry opened a hotline offering information about the tragedy and psychological assistance.

A view shows a scene where a short-haul regional Antonov AN-148 crashed after taking off from Moscow's Domodedovo airport

Footage from the Orsk airport showed emergency ministries personnel arriving there, and psychologists were on hand at the airport to speak with relatives.

The ill-fated An-148 was built in Voronezh, Russia, in 2010.

In a statement, Russia's transport agency said: "The An-148 passenger plane of the Saratov Airlin took off from the Domodedovo airport at 14:21 Moscow time.

"According to preliminary data, there were 65 passengers and six crew members aboard the plane. Radio contact with the plane was lost several minutes after the takeoff and the plane went off radar."

The emergencies ministry told state news agency TASS that fragments of the An-148 plane and several bodies had been found near the village of Stepanovskoye.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Emergencies, medical and law enforcement personnel were working at the crash site.

Andrei Odintsov, mayor of Orsk, told Rossiya 24 that all those on the plane were residents of the Orenburg region and said calls are starting to come in from relatives.

The main task for us is to check the passenger list, today we have the names but we need to establish their addresses and relatives, he said.

A Rossiya 24 correspondent at the Orsk airport said people were coming to check lists of people killed.

People are still arriving here and trying to find out if their loved ones or friends were among the dead, she said.

Local news site Ural56 published the list of 65 passengers who had been on the flight.

One of the names on the list was Tamerlan Aknazarov. A social media page for a man by that name living in Orsk listed his age as 32. It had last been active a little over an hour before the flight took off.

In photos, Mr Aknazarov was shown posing with friends and riding a horse. He had posted videos about maintaining cars and an image of the popular game World of Tanks.

According to an Orsk social media page listed under the name of another passenger, Svetlana Machneva, she was a single mother with a 16-year-old daughter.

Saratov Airlines is a small company with 13 planes and has not suffered previous fatal crashes.Sebastien Roblin

Security, Europe

Welcome to Russian Next Generation Warfare.

The Russian New Warfare Doctrine Has the Army Worried Enough to Make a Manual About It

The U.S. Armys Asymmetric Warfare Group was formed in 2006 to identify gaps in U.S. military doctrine, equipment and field tactics, and to study how potential adversaries are developing tactics to exploit them. In 2017 the group released the sixty-one-page Russian New Generation Warfare Handbook, which you can read here, based on observation of Russian tactics in Ukraine and to a lesser extent Syria, as well as published doctrine and public statements. It paints an intimidating picture of a military ready to combine old strengths in artillery and antiaircraft systems with new technologies and tactics, leveraging drones, electronic warfare, information warfare and massed sniper fire.

To be clear, the document doesnt set out to paint the Russian military as an indomitable juggernaut. In fact, its so-called New-Generation or Fourth-Generation warfare is founded on a recognition that old Soviet-era Deep Battle tactics emphasizing huge armored formations deploying to battle in echelon were no longer viable given Russias more limited resources compared to the Soviet Red Army, as well as its persistent qualitative inferiority. Despite progress in professionalizing, the Russian military remains largely made up of conscripts who, after four months of basic training, only serve for another eight before a new group of fresh recruits is rotated in. The armed forces retain a centralized command-and-control structure, which accords enlisted personnel and NCOs little ability to act on their own initiative.

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Of course, the AWGs handbook is in attempt to understand an adversarys warfare from the outside, rather than reflecting how the Russian military perceives its own tactics. Such an effort will inevitably be colored by analysts cultural biases and worldviews, as well as a degree of paranoia intrinsic to the military profession. For a reverse example, Russias concept of hybrid warfare, or the so-called Gerasimov doctrinea term used to describe a blend of conventional and irregular warfare as well as political and cyber warfarewas actually coined to describe what the Russian military perceived as Western military tactics.

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Without further ado, lets look are some of the major takeaways from the report.

Modern Russian Units Are Evolving into Smaller, More Flexible Formations

The new basic Russian military unit is the Battalion Tactical Group, which can be tailored for specific missions by the addition of antiaircraft, electronic-warfare and artillery units. At the operational level, Russia has moved away from a force organized around large divisions to smaller but still well-rounded brigadesthough the divisional echelon may soon be reemphasized to ease administrative burdens.

Moscow Prefers to Rely on Local Proxies to Do the Brunt of the Fighting

Moscow has made increasing use of allied irregular forces and private mercenary companies to lead operations in Ukraine and Syria, bolstered by Russian advisors, military equipment and training. This approach has been inspired in part by Western engagement with allied proxies in conflicts ranging from Vietnam to Libya and Afghanistan.

As the AWG puts it, the proxies create several useful effects for successful Russian military operations: confusion, deniability and additional manpower. Local proxies free up conventional Russian military units and assets to intervene in the sectors they are most needed. They also help paint a veneer of political legitimacy to Russian military operations. Indeed, Moscow is placing renewed emphasis on information warfare to mold the human terrain of a conflict zone in its favor.

Finally, Russia uses the proxies to deny the involvement of their own forces, confusing the reactions of its adversaries. This was especially evident in the conflict in Ukraine, when the governments reaction was initially paralyzed by uncertainty as to whether it faced a Russian invasion or a purely local uprising. Meanwhile in Syria, there is often uncertainty as to whether any given attack directed against civilian targets was perpetrated by Syrian or Russian forces.

Moscow Uses Cyberwarfare and Information Operations for Offensive Ends

Moscow has invested to an unparalleled degree in an information-warfare apparatus designed to manipulate foreign public opinion and break into adversary computer systems for both political and military ends. These hacking and disinformation campaigns have high possible rewards, and are done at limited risk to Russia because Western adversaries open political systems constrain their ability to retaliate. By contrasts, Russias authoritarian structure silences political opposition and independent media outlets that could undermine information campaigns, and projects a philosophy of universal cynicism to instill doubt in counterpropaganda.

Moscow employs hundreds of professional hackers and internet trolls, and is also comfortable employing experienced criminal groups for such operations. While the propaganda generated by low-level sources may be contradictory, it still plays up the same general themes (Western society is on the verge of collapse, there are no Russian forces in Ukraine and so on), helping mold international opinion to Moscows preferred narratives.

Russian Military Relies on Artillery to Destroy Enemy Formations

Russias fondness for the god of war dates back several centuries, and according to the guide, Russian tactics still emphasize artillery as a decisive instrument for destroying enemy formations, while maneuver units handle mopping up the survivors. While self-propelled artillery vehicles can accompany troops on offensive maneuvers, in general the Russian military now seeks to keep the enemy at arms length from its frontline positions so that the artillery can blast enemy troops without hitting friendly forces.

Moscow has long been wielding more and bigger guns as a means to compensate for its forces qualitatively inferior training. Whereas Western militaries increasingly use artillery to launch precision strikes against enemy positions, the Russian Army still values large-scale area bombardments with overwhelming volumes of firepower, especially from deadly multiple rocket-launcher systems such as the BM-30 Smerch.

In Ukraine, the wide-scale adoption of drones has reportedly been a game changer in the effectiveness of artillery. Russian-supported forces using drone spotters have delivered deadly artillery fires against Ukrainian formations on the move that inflicted over a hundred casualties in one attack. However, a weakness of Russian artillery is its centralized command-and-control structure, which makes it difficult for frontline troops to request fire missions.

Russian-Supported Forces Deploy Lots of Snipers

Back in World War II, the Russian military famously made extensive use of snipers to degrade enemy morale and eliminate key unit leaders. In the last decades, Moscow has reinvested in elite sniper units by acquiring modern sniper rifles, suppressors, ammunition and sights from Western sources, as well as producing its own deadly T-5000 sniper rifle.

In Ukraine, Russian forces have even deployed platoon-sized sniper units in depth on narrow fronts, with the most elite sharpshooters deployed over a mile to the rear while local proxies man the front line. These sniper fronts can pin down larger enemy formations with accurate firethen call down artillery strikes on the immobilized enemy to inflict even greater casualties. The guide suggests only two tactical responses: either disengage immediately, even at the likely cost of some casualties, to avoid getting hit by an artillery strike, or to reply with accurate sniper or heavy-weapons fire.

Antiaccess/Area-Denial Weapons May Target Western Forces Air and Logistical Support

Western militaries have come to expect on-call air support and medical evacuation. By contrast, Russian forces are not accustomed to assuming air superioritythis was true even during victorious campaigns late in World War IIand thus have invested heavily in a diverse array of antiaircraft systems, from short-range man-portable surface-to-air missiles and antiaircraft vehicles at the battalion level to strategic S-300 or S-400 missiles that can threaten aircraft hundreds of miles away. While each system individually has its limitation, they are designed to overlap into an integrated network that can only be dismantled with great care.

In Ukraine, Russian-supported forces deployed a variety of antiaircraft systems that shot down Frogfoot attack jets, helicopter transports and gunships and even a fully loaded cargo plane, eventually forcing the Ukrainian Air Force to stop providing tactical air support. While Russian air-defense networks are not invincible, a Western adversary would likely only be able to count on sporadic air support, at least initially, due to the density of the antiair threat.

Russia has also placed more emphasis on accurate tactical ballistic missiles such as the Iskander to deliver strikes that a Western military might employ aircraft to undertake. This means rear-area command and logistical units would be subject to deadly strikes, even if air superiority is secured.

Electronic Warfare Threatens Dependence on Communications and Sensors

Western militaries depend on extensive command-and-control infrastructure and near real-time tracking of troop positions as force multipliers. However, Russian electronic-warfare batteries wield a multitude of systems to jam or spy upon frontline communication systemsincluding radio, cellular, satellite and even GPS. Russian EW units may transmit misleading data to lure enemy forces into a trap, and signal-intercept devices and electromagnetic sensors can also detect the position of opposing communication and sensor nodes and subsequently direct precise artillery fires to destroy them.

These are not hypothetical capabilities; they have been demonstrated in the war in Ukraine. Russian electronic-warfare units shut down communications to frontline Ukrainian positions and directed deadly attacks on their headquarter units.

Western reliance on lavish C3 capabilities could be fatal in such an environment. Field commanders used to wielding precise control over their troops will instead need to learn to communicate in short transmissions, erect smaller and more dispersed Tactical Operation Centers, and give adaptable mission orders that delegate authority to low-level unit leaders to adapt to varying contingencies.

However, a major limitation to both Russias electronic-warfare and area-denial systems is that Moscow simply cant afford enough of them, and is forced to shuffle these assets from one critical zone to another. Because their deployment may be necessary for local units to achieve their mission, this can slow down the pace of operations and makes the location of the next local offensive more predictable. Disabling such system is thus more likely to cripple a military operation than simply inflicting personnel losses, which can be more easily replaced due to the conscription system.

Its just as important not to overestimate an opponents strength as to underestimate them; likewise, while caution and situational awareness may be warranted, paranoia is not. The AWGs handbook does its best to contextualize how New Generation warfare just as much an attempt to compensate for Russian weaknesses as to exploit gaps in adversary capabilities. It adds up to a timely reminder that awareness of an adversarys methods may be key to prevailing in a military conflictor, more desirably, avoiding one in the first place.

Sebastien Roblin holds a masters degree in conflict resolution from Georgetown University and served as a university instructor for the Peace Corps in China. He has also worked in education, editing and refugee resettlement in France and the United States. He currently writes on security and military history for War Is Boring.

Image: Reuters

Read full articleNASAs Curiosity Rover, which has been exploring the Red Planet since 2012, found new crystal-like geological structures the size of sesame seeds  which are likely additional evidence that, once, there was water here.

The shapes, which NASA describes as star-shaped and swallowtail-shaped tiny, dark bumps in fine-layered bright bedrock of a Martian ridge recall gypsum crystals that are found in drying lakes on Earth, but of course, because Mars is not Earth, scientists are considering other explanations for these formations.

The structures also raise other questions, such as when the features formed and whether the original mineral that was crystalized within them remains or was eventually dissolved. The results could tell us what was here before, whether it was a drying lake or flowing groundwater.

These sesame-sized formations were discovered on an area of the Vera Rubin Ridge called Jura, on the northern slope of Mount Sharp. The Curiosity Rover has been exploring the Vera Rubin Ridge for the past five months. They were intrigued by the visible change in color of Jura, which looks pale and grey, compared to the red of the rest of the ridge.

Could these sesame seed formations on Mars be evidence of water?

We were looking at the color change from one area to another. We were lucky to see the crystals. Theyre so tiny, you dont see them until youre right on them, says Abigail Fraeman of NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and a member of the Curiosity Rovers science team.

Images from the Rover are almost immediately posted online, and these fossil-like formations immediately drew attention.

Project Scientist Ashwin Vasavada of JPL was interested, however, in the formations not for their fossil-like appearance, but because of the implications that the structures have for the regions geological history.

So far on this mission, most of the evidence weve seen about ancient lakes in Gale Crater has been for relatively fresh, non-salty water, explains Vasavada. If we start seeing lakes becoming saltier with time, that would help us understand how the environment changed in Gale Crater, and its consistent with an overall pattern that water on Mars became more scarce over time.

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This could represent the difference between a regularly replenished freshwater lake in the mountains, for example, or a salty desert lake where water quickly evaporates.

In either scenario, these crystals are a new type of evidence that builds the story of persistent water and a long-lived habitable environment on Mars, Vasavada said.

The Mars Rover has also found evidence of iron deposits in various features in the bedrock, which might be evidence of microbial life.

Photos via NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS (1, 2)

Photos via NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS (1, 2)

Written by Eileen Guo

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History, Europe

How one of the most vile dictators of the twentieth century met his end.

The Shocking Story of How Mussolini Died

At 3 am on Sunday, April 29, 1945, a yellow furniture truck stopped at the Piazzale Loreto, a vast, open traffic roundabout where five roads intersected in the northern Italian city of Milan. This industrial center had been held for only four days by Communist partisans, but from 1919 on it had been the spiritual headquarters of the Fascist Party founded there by former journalist and World War I Army mountain corps veteran Benito Mussolini.

In a very real sense, his first political career, ended the day before by his demise, had now come full circle as Mussolinis dead body was dumped from the van onto the wet cobblestones of the empty roundabout, followed by those of 16 other men and a lone female, his mistress since 1933, Claretta Petacci. All 18 people, their dead bodies thrown out by 10 men, had simply been murdered by Communist Party execution squads in hails of gunfire.

Without any sort of trial, 15 men were shot in the back at the town of Dongo on the shore of Lake Como, with Marcello Petacci slain in the water as he swam in vain for his life.

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As for the Fascist Duce (Leader) and his lady, how, where, why, and by whom they were shot are all still unsolved mysteries even today. While the executions of the men were thinly disguised, politically motivated assassinations, the killing of Claretta Petacci was and remains a shameful, common criminal act by ruthless men who had power over her and wrongfully exercised itno more and no less.

By 8 am, word had gotten around the city via a special newspaper edition as well as bulletins on Radio Free Milan that the hated Duce, revered just four months earlier at public rallies by this very same citizenry, was dead and available for scorn in the Piazzale Loreto. It was there, on August 13, 1944, that the Fascists, egged on by the German SS, had shot 15 partisans. This days butchery had been allegedly in revenge for that earlier deed.

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A large, ugly, depraved, and nasty crowd of civilians and partisans gathered and quickly got out of control; neither fire hoses nor bullets fired in the air could deter or disperse it.

Two men kicked the late Mussolini in the jaw while another put a pendant in his dead hand as a mock symbol of his lost power; a woman fired five pistol shots into his head as retaliation, she asserted, for the same number of her dead sons, all slain in Il Duces series of imperialistic wars since 1935. A fiery rag was thrown in his face, his skull was cracked, and one of his eyes fell out of its socket.

Another woman hitched up her skirt, squatted down, and urinated on his face, which others spit on with abandon, while yet a third brought forth a whip with which to beat his battered corpse. A man tried to stuff a dead mouse into the former Italian premiers slack, broken mouth, chanting all the while, Make a speech now! over and over again.

Pushed beyond hatred and emotional endurance, the angry mob stormed forward and actually trampled the 18 bodies where they lay.

When a burly man picked up the slain Duce by the armpits and held him for the throng to view, the latter chanted, Higher! Higher! We cant see! String them up! To the hooks, like pigs! Thus it came to pass that the bodies of Il Duce, his mistress, and four others were tied with ropes and hoisted six feet off the ground, their dangling bodies lashed by the ankles to the crosspiece of an unfinished Standard Oil gas station that has long since disappeared.

As the sole female corpse was raised, the belle of that gruesome balls skirt fell downward around her face, revealing a panty-less torso to the taunts of the crowd. Some accounts say that a woman, others say a male partisan chaplain stepped forward and placed a rope taut around her legs, thus securing her skirt in place for the cameras of the world to film.

A woman gasped aloud, Imagine, all that and not a run in her stockings!

Il Duces face was blood splashed, and his famous mouth gaped open, while Clarettas eyes stared dully into space. The former Fascist Party secretary, Achille Starace, dressed in a jogging suit for his daily run, was brought forth, faced the dead, and incredibly gave the stiff-armed Fascist salute to My Duce! He was then shot in the back by a four-man firing squad.

Just then, the rope holding the dead body of Francesco Barracu snapped, and his corpse hit the ground below with a sickening thud; Starace was strung up in his place like a piece of meat beside the others. Next, Mussolinis rope was cut, and he fell to the cobblestones on the top of his head, his brains oozing out onto the wet street.

At 1 pm, the combined protests of the Catholic cardinal of Milan and the just arriving American military government succeeded in having the bodies taken down, placed in plain wooden coffins, and sent to the city morgue.

There, the body of Mussolini was formally autopsied. The 5-foot, 6-inch tall Duce weighed 158 pounds, with sparse white hair on his battered, bald head. Because he was hit by seven to nine bullets while still alive, the immediate cause of death was determined to have been four shots near the heart. His stomach bore ulcer scars, but none of the long-rumored syphilis was visible. He had had a minor gall bladder problem, however.

Mussolinis corpse was buried anonymously in Milans Musocco Cemetery in section 16, grave 384, while part of his brain was handed over for study to St. Elizabeths Psychiatric Hospital in Washington, D.C., and only returned to his widow, Donna Rachele, decades later.

Claretta had been killed by two 9mm bullets, which added to the mystery of the weaponry used. She was also buried in Milan under the name of Rita Colfosco and in 1956 was exhumed by the Petacci family, which had meanwhile returned to Italy from its Spanish exile at the end of the war. Today her remains rest in Romes Verano Cemetery in a pink marble tomb topped with a white marble statue. Rumor had it that her corpse had been retrieved to secure hidden gems sewn into the hem of her skirt.

The bloody killings and their gruesome aftermath horrified the world, but to the Italians the entire episode conjured up mainly postwar political connotations: to the beaten Fascists, the partisans had acted simply as the Italian arm of the Red Army, as the agents of Josef Stalin in Moscow; while to the rest of the body politic, the events at the Piazzale Loreto symbolized the birth pangs of the coming socialist republic that even Mussolini himself would have supported over the monarchy that had both hired and fired him.

The final saga for Mussolini and Petacci began when Il Duce arrived in Milan at 7 pm on April 18, just ll days before his death, with Ms. Petacci, the eldest daughter of a former Vatican physician, following later. On the 21st, an American OSS plan to capture Mussolini by paratroopers was vetoed, while his own German Waffen SS battalion-sized escort was removed and sent to the front to fight the advancing Allies and Communist partisan forces.

Even some of his own Fascists, as well as Clarettas larcenous brother Marcello, were plotting to have Mussolini murdered while suspicions were running deep among members of his circle that the Germans were planning to trade him to the Allies to save their skins.

The Catholic Church offered Il Duce asylum, as did several South American countries. He refused and vowed he would never surrender but instead would lead a Fascist last stand in the Valtellina region, on the far side of Lake Como.

When the betrayed Duce heard of German plans for a secret surrender of all Axis forces in northern Italy on April 25, he left Milan in a huff for the town of Como, 25 miles distant, trailed by his SS bodyguard chief, Lieutenant Fritz Birzer and Secret Police Lieutenant Otto Kisnatt, each ordered not to let him out of

their sight or to shoot him themselves if he tried to escape.

He did trytwice. He was now a man on the run, but why?

Although informed that neutral Switzerland would not accept him, his family, or any other Fascists, Mussolini nevertheless seemed to be headed there rather than, as he asserted, to a final battle that drew only 12 faithful soldiers.

It has also been suggested that Mussolini meant instead to cross the frontier into the Nazi-held South Tyrolean region of Austria and there stand until death with still-resisting German troops, but even now no one really knows for sure.

Yet another theory has lingered since 1945 that Il Duce was trying to rendezvous with British secret agents to trade his life and those of the members of his sizable entourage in return for secret prewar letters between him and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, as well as for others penned during the final stages of the war.

There was also the hoard of loot that the fleeing Fascists took with them in a convoy of 28 vehicles, an estimated millions in cash, checks, jewels, gold bullion and other riches taken from slain Jews, all later stolen by the partisans and used to launch the postwar Italian Communist Party as the largest in Western Europe. This has been referred to ever since as Il Duces Gold or the Dongo Treasure in reference to where it was captured on April 27 along with Mussolini and his fleeing minions.

All of this has been endlessly discussed since 1945 in a veritable phalanx of articles and books in both English and Italian, the most recent being an excellent trio of works brought forth for the 60th anniversary of the end of the Italian campaign and the Duce-Petacci-Fascist slayings of April 28, 1945.

The first two books, written by Ray Moseley and Luciano Garibaldi, respectively, appeared in 2004 and were titled Mussolini: The Last 600 Days of Il Duce and Mussolini: The Secrets of His Death/Did Winston Churchill Order Mussolinis Execution? The third volume of this trio, Sergio Luzzattos lyrical The Body of Il Duce: Mussolinis Corpse and the Fortunes of Italy appeared in 2005.

On Friday, April 27, the convoy of German SS, Luftwaffe, and Italian Fascist vehicles of uncertain numbers was stopped by a small, vastly outnumbered unit of the 52nd Garibaldi Partisan Brigade commanded by Count Pier Luigi Bellini delle Stelle, alias Pedro, at the small village of Musso along Lake Como. Bluffing as to the size of their actual force, the Red negotiators told the Germans that they could proceed unharmed, but only on the condition that no Italians were in the enemy column.

Luftwaffe Lieutenant Hans Fallmeyer, according to Moseley, and Lieutenant Fritz Birzer agreed to these conditions. The latter hastened to the hidden Duce, who was inside an armored car and armed with a submachine gun and wearing his standard gray-green forage cap and uniform of the Fascist Militia.

Mussolini argued that all of his entourage should be allowed to continue, but the Nazi lieutenant was firm, insisting that only the Duce himself could go and that even Claretta had to be left behind. Urged by her to accept the terms, an embarrassed Duce reluctantly agreed.

Birzer got his own overcoat and steel helmet from a Luftwaffe sergeant and gave them to Mussolini to wear, but the mortified Duce protested that he would be ashamed to be found dressed as a German and hidden in a German vehicle. However, he finally relented.

The disguised Duce slipped out of the armored car and into a truck of Luftwaffe men, wearing the German steel helmet backward until Lieutenant Birzer righted it. Tearing off his own Fascist Militia jacket, the crestfallen Mussolini replaced it with the field gray overcoat that was discovered in Rome in 1999, to further hide the rest of his own uniform, complete with the traditional black shirt of the Fascisti. Sitting quietly at the far end in the left corner of the fourth truck in line, Mussolini pretended to be drunk.

The hidden Duce was betrayed by an Austrian who told the partisans, There are Italians; have the trucks searched, as well as an Italian Fascist, Nicola Bombacci, who lamented, He is with us! It is not fair that he should get away! Thus forewarned, the Communists stopped the convoy a second time, at the next village, Dongo, just opposite the town hall.

A former sailor in the Italian Navy, a clog-maker from Dongo named Giuseppe Negri who had joined the Partisans, searched the truck and was startled to see the profile of the man he had formerly served. He reported immediately to Urbano Lazzaro (alias Bill), asserting, Oh, Bill! Weve got the Big Bastard!  Its really Mussolini!  Ive seen him with my own eyes!

Incredulous, Lazzaro climbed into the truck himself and approached the mysterious figure pointed out to him obligingly by the real Luftwaffe men who knew the truth. Lazzaro tapped the seated man on the shoulder and called out, Comrade! but got no answer. He then stated louder, Your Excellency! and tapped his shoulder once more, but was still met with silence and no movement. He addressed the silent figure yet a third time: Cavalier Benito Mussolini!

Later he recalled, I take off his helmet and see his bald pate and the characteristic shape of his head. I take off his sunglasses and lower the collar of his coat. It is he, Mussolini.

Lazzaro removed the mans machine gun and was offered in turn from his unbuttoned coat a 9mm, long-barreled Glisenti automatic pistol without a word in response to the question, Do you have any other weapons?

He stood up and said, I am Mussolini. I shall not make any trouble.

Arrested by Lazzaro, the now meek Duce told the Germans not to defend him; he was taken from the truck and marched to the town hall, his captors following respectfully behind. There, according to Moseley, He took off his coat, which was too long for him, and was found to be wearing a black shirt and a pair of Militia trousers. He wore boots, but had no jacket.

At Milan, the slain Duce still had on the trousers and the boots, but the shirt had disappeared while he swung from the girders of the filling station and was also absent from the coffin in the morgue, as photographs clearly show.

Also taken by Lazzaro from the captured Duce was a briefcase and other baggage that had the originals of his most important, personal papers, to which Mussolini exclaimed, Take care of those bags! They contain Italys destiny! These files included his letters to and from Churchill, correspondence with Hitler, and a document covering the January 1944 Verona Trial of the traitors who had voted against him in 1943. A fourth set of papers detailed the alleged homosexual activities of Italian Crown Prince Umberto, then the designated lieutenant general of the realm.

Lazzaro gave all of this to his superior, Luigi Canali (alias Captain Neri), who wanted to honor the terms of the 1943 armistice with the Allies that required the Duce to be turned over to them for trial. The top Communists in Milan ignored this legal clause. Neri also opposed the seizure of the Dongo Treasure by his Communist bosses, and some have accused him of having shot Mussolini himself.

According to some sources, Neri was assassinated by the Communists in May 1945, not because of having done that, but for bringing the British secret service into the affair.

Ironically, Neri had been drafted into the Italian Army in 1936 as a lieutenant of engineers in East Africa, later took part in the retreat of the Expeditionary Corps in Russia, became a Communist, and helped found the 52nd Garibaldi Partisan Brigade that captured his former Duce.

A further twist to this complicated tale was that of Neris own mistress: Giuseppina Tuissi (aka Gianna), who was shot by their Communist colleagues on June 23, 1945. Her body was dumped into Lake Como.

The first and last of Mussolinis files of personal papers disappeared forever, but the others were copied by the Allies and then deposited in the Italian State Archives after being examined by the Communists. As a precaution, however, Mussolini had made a three copies: one for Claretta, which she gave to Marcello and which the partisans seized; and a second for the Imperial Japanese ambassador to the Salo Republic, Baron Shinrokuro Hikada, which was delivered by him to the Foreign Ministry in Tokyo. Mussolini gave the third and final set to his Fascist Education Minister, Carlo Alberto Biggini, who died supposedly of cancer in the hospital in the autumn of 1945, one of the few top Fascists not to have been shot.

There were, too, the now infamous Duce Diaries, 10 notebooks in his own handwriting that were given to Baron Hikada as well. Most of these vanished. Of the Duces own original papers and documents personally seen by Lazzaro, 344 pages dwindled to little more than 70 after several deletions by interested parties.

Some historians speculate that on September 15, 1945, at a secret meeting held between British agents and Como Communist leader Dante Gorreri, the latter turned over 62 Duce-Churchill letters for an estimated 2.5 million Italian lira laundered in Switzerland and then returned to Italy to be used to launch the new republic. Supposedly, during this exchange, the partisans agreed to accept the blame for the killing of Claretta, who had allegedly been shot by the British because she knew of the secret correspondence.

According to Bruno Giovanni Lonati (alias Ciacomo), a British Special Operations Executive agent, Captain John, the alias of Robert Maccarrone, shot both the Duce and Claretta. The name of a second British agent, Malcolm Smith, aka Johnson, also surfaced. All this was part of a fantastic yarn known as the so-called British Thread.

Taken away, Mussolini was rejoined at the De Maria farmhouse at Bonzanigo by Petacci, who begged her captors to shoot her as well if that was to be the ultimate fate of the apprehended Mussolini. They spent the night together in a peasant bed.

Meanwhile, a Communist murderer codenamed Colonel Valerio was sent from Milan to execute them both. Valerio has been identified over the decades as several different Communists.

As he went into the De Maria farmhouse to meet the captive Duce for the first and only time, Valerio chortled, Ill tell him Ive come to rescue him! The men hustled the Duce, now sporting a black beret, and Claretta, frantically searching among the bedsheets for her missing panties, out the door and into a waiting car.

Later, 19-year-old Dorina Mazzola claimed to have seen both victims gunned down just outside the De Maria farmhouse, and it was then that the long-accepted version of their having been shot by the gate of the Villa Belmonte was first challenged by historians.

Exactly who actually shot first Claretta and then Mussolini has been debated. It was even asserted that a second shooting of the already dead bodies was held at the Villa Belmonte. Some others said that the doomed pair committed suicide inside the De Maria farmhouse instead.

At a Communist rally in Rome in March 1947, a former partisan named Audisio was officially proclaimed before an audience of 40,000 as the killer of Mussolini and Petacci. This occurred during a campaign for the Italian Parliament, and he was elected.

It was also subsequently agreed that both Audisios submachine gun and pistol failed to fire in succession and that it was a 7.65mm L/MAS 1938 model F20830 submachine gun with a red ribbon tied to the end of the barrel and belonging to another partisan named Moretti that was the actual murder weapon. Captured from the Fascists, the weapon reportedly fired five French-made bullets into Mussolini while the mysterious 9mm rounds fired into Petacci came from an unknown weapon.

No mention has been made of where the weapons are today. In all, Audisio is said to have given as many as 22 different published accounts of these events before his death in 1971.

Valerio claimed that Il Duce was a trembling coward in death, begging that his life be spared: I will give you an empire! But other accounts stated that he pulled himself together after being told Your luck has run out, and having seen how Claretta argued with the murderers, You cannot kill us like this! before being gunned down herself.

One partisan claimed that Mussolinis last words were, Shoot me in the chest! while another felt that Aim for my heart! was, in fact, more accurate. Still other versions are Long live Italy! and But, colonel.

Afterward, Audisio was supposed to have said, Look at his face! It suits him, doesnt it? In any event, the man contemptuously called Hitlers gauleiter for northern Italy by his enemies and code-named Karl Heinz by the Germans was dead.

Formal Fascism died on the Piazzale Loreto on April 29, 1945. In perhaps the greatest irony of all, Audisio and his men very nearly never made their rendezvous with destiny in Milan. After having bluffed their way past U.S. Army patrols, which never searched the yellow truck, they were arrested by yet another partisan unit while on their way into the city at 10 pm on the 28th.

Theyre Fascists! screamed the irate officer in command, and this seemed to be confirmed when he found the list of the top Fascists that Colonl Valerio himself had written to identify those to be shot.

The names of the slain Dongo 16 have rarely been noted. They included Fascist Party Secretary Alessandro Pavolini; Francesco Maria Barracu, Paolo Zerbino, Fernando Mezzasoma, Ruggero Romano, and Augusto Liverani, Salo Republic ministers all; Inspector for Lombardy Paolo Porta; the Duces secretary Luigi Gatti; Bologna University Rector Goffredo Coppola; Stefani News Agency Director Ernesto Daquanno; Agricultural Federation employee Mario Nudi; Duce aide Vito Casalinuovo; Italian Air Force pilot Pietro Calistri; public relations man Idreno Utimpergher; Mussolinis longtime socialist friend, Nicola Bombacci; and Clarettas brother, Marcello, whom the partisans initially mistook for a Spanish diplomat and then for Il Duces son, Vittorio.

Neo-Fascism lives on mainly in the person of the Duces granddaughter, Italian film actress Alessandra Mussolini, child of Mussolinis jazz musician son Romano and Sophia Lorens divorced sister. Alessandra was elected to the nations legislature in the 1990s.

When neo-Fascist Domenico Leccisi of the MSI Party stole the Duces body on April 23,1946, he unwittingly launched the late Duces second political career as a traveling corpse. Leccisi had seen Mussolini twice, in 1936 and 1945, and found his remains to be still recognizable. Later, Leccisi was also elected to Parliament and even concocted a plot to kill Audisio. Fascist deputies were returned to office in the 1953 elections.

As for the missing Duce, his body was surrendered to a pair of Franciscan friars and hidden in the convent of Cerro Maggiore with the knowledge of the cardinal of Milan and of the Italian Socialist government for 11 years. By that time, the remains were skeletal and fit into a small trunk.

The so-called Padua Trial began on April 29, 1957, to resolve the issue of the disappearance of the Dongo Treasure and the subsequent murders of those linked to it. The trial adjourned inconclusively the following August and was never reconvened.

On September 1, 1957, Mussolinis remains were finally returned to his widow and entombed in the family crypt at Predappio, the town where Il Duce was born in 1883. It has since become a shrine for 70,000 pilgrims and tourists who visit annually. It is guarded around the clock by twin neo-Fascist sentries in long capes.

The crossbar of the Milan gas station became a sort of monument to socialist and communist unions that staged parades past it, and painted upon it were the names of the five slain Fascisti and Claretta Petacci who had been suspended from it. Later, a merchant supposedly bought the piece as an investment for resale. Ironically, the flames of the memory of that day in Milan were fanned not by the Socialists who wanted to forget it, but rather by the neo-Fascists as a symbol of rightist anger.

It appears that the long-forgotten Claretta Petacci may yet have a final word. In 1945, when she took her leave of Lake Garda to chase after her departed Duce, she left behind with the caretakers at the Villa Mirabella her own papers.

These were two large boxes of 600 love letters from the Duce spanning the 12 years of their passionate association from February 1933 to April 1945. Containing not only gossip but also highly valuable military, political, and diplomatic tidbits, they were buried for safekeeping at Gardone and willed by Claretta to her younger sister and confidante, Myriam Petacci.

Dug up by the family in 1950, the 15 volumes were immediately confiscated by the Italian Socialist Republic. Myriam lost her case for repossession in the courts and died in 1991. The documents were ordered sealed for 50 years, or until April 25, 1995. When that date came and went, they remained sealed as they are today.

Today, the sole family heir is the younger son of Clarettas murdered brother Marcello, broke and living in a trailer park in Phoenix, Arizona. Someday, when his legal inheritance is duly honored, Signor Petacci will become one of the most famous and richest men in the world as his late aunts papers are released and published globally.

This article by Blaine Taylor originally appeared on Warfare History Network.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Read full article2 foreign buyers sever ties with 298 apparel units

Anisul Islam Noor :

Europe and North America's two buyer associations-Accord and Alliance- have suspended their relation with 298 garment factories in the country, a source of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) said on Monday.

Many of these factory owners have failed to comply with reform programs and ensure safety measure within the schedule time.

Talking with The New Nation a leader of BGMEA said that the Accord and the Alliance are working to improve safety standards of factories in the country's garment sector. The two of the coalition partners are severing business ties with the back-end garment suppliers, who have been identified by their inspections.

The European-based Catering Co-operators, Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh, have identified these factories as tertiary suppliers, he said.

On the other hand, the North American-based Alliance for Bangladesh Workers Safety is calling those factories as suspended factories. From the year 2014 to February 8, 2018, the total number of terminated factories of 298

According to the leader, the Alliance and the Accord announced that the failure of the factory to take safety measures for workers' rights, the inability to empty the defective factories, failure to prove the reform, non-cooperation in evaluation, lack of factory design, and the collapse of the factory with 298 factories.

Most of the cases have been blamed for failure of the factory safety measures. As a result, the recommendations of the two hundred customers involved in not dealing with these factories have been suggested.

However, there is a scope to reconnect with the Alliance-Accord for error corrections. In that case, the factory authorities will have to take the evaluation process at their own expense.

Currently the total number of factories covered by the Alliance is 660. These factories employed about 1.3 million workers. On the other hand, 1,621 factories have been covered under Accord. These are 2.1 million and 28626 workers. There are 165 factories in the list of Alliance Relations.

Of these, seven factories rehabilitation work has started, but it is still identified as suspended. On the other hand, there are 133 units of Accord's terminated listing factories, sources said.







South Africa is in deadlock ahead of President Jacob Zuma's expected departure from office - REUTERS

The African National Congress left nearly 57 million South Africans in limbo on Saturday as its leaders hashed out a plan for embattled President Jacob Zuma to hand in his resignation.

South Africas ruling party appealed to the nation to be patient as Mr Zuma and Cyril Ramaphosa, the deputy president, who is expected to take over, remained locked in negotiations over the terms of the presidents exit.

Lets be very patient, Edna Molewa, a member of the ANCs National Executive Committee told local media. We are confident when they finish there theyll give South Africa a positive way forward.

On Saturday the party's top leadership met without Mr Zuma, ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe reportedly told public broadcaster SABC.

There is agreement on the end game, what is being discussed is the timing and the process that should be followed," he said.

Jacob Zuma could face prolonged court battles related to multiple criminal cases

Mr Zumas term as head of state is not up until next year, but pressure from inside and outside the ANC has been building for him to step down since Mr Ramaphosa replaced him as head of the ANC in December.

Mr Zuma, an anti-apartheid struggle veteran whose nine years in office have been marked by multiple high-profile scandals, has been in closed-door talks with Mr Ramaphosa since Tuesday as a week of political chaos has engulfed the country.

The much-anticipated State of the Nation address that Mr Zuma was due to deliver on Thursday was cancelled.

On Friday, several of the partys top leaders pulled out of public appearances in Cape Town, and an awards ceremony at which Mr Zuma was expected to appear on Saturday was also called off.

ANC officials have been tight-lipped about the sticking points of the conversations.

Adding to the confusion, Tobeka Madiba-Zuma, one of Mr Zumas wives, posted a picture of herself and the president on Instagram, warning in the post that things are about to get ugly and that her husband will finish what he started because he does not take orders beyond the Atlantic Ocean.

Story continues

Mr Zumas son Edward quickly issued a statement attempting to distance the family from her comments, but the speed with which the post spread spoke to South Africans desperation for some hint of who would be leading their country in a weeks time.

Meanwhile, Capetonians bracing themselves for Day Zero, the day the city plans to turn off most of the citys water taps on May 11, got some reprieve as 8mm of rain fell on Friday night.

As the citys dam levels have fallen to just above 25 per cent, the city has been scrambling to bring new water sources online, including desalination plants and groundwater boreholes, to avoid having to turn off the water in peoples homes and businesses.

It wasnt immediately clear whether the Friday night rainfall would have any impact, but residents of the parched city celebrated on social media.By Wendell Roelf CAPE TOWN (Reuters) - South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) leader Cyril Ramaphosa said on Sunday the party's executive body would meet on Monday to finalize discussions on the future of President Jacob Zuma, who is under mounting pressure to step down. Speaking at a rally as part of celebrations marking 100 years since the birth of former President Nelson Mandela, he said Zuma's exit should be undertaken in an orderly fashion just as the anti-apartheid icon would have handled it. The 75-year-old Zuma, in power since 2009 and mired in corruption allegations, has been living on borrowed time since Ramaphosa took over his other role as leader of the ruling party in December. Addressing ANC supporters in Cape Town, Ramaphosa, who is deputy president, said: "The National Executive Committee of the ANC will be meeting tomorrow to discuss this very matter, and because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that." The party's National Executive Committee has the power to instruct Zuma to resign. Though he avoided mentioning Zuma by name, Ramaphosa spoke several times of a "transition of power" in reference to talks on Zuma's future and said the ANC wanted to resolve issues around the "president of the country". In a speech which also marked 28 years to the day since Mandela was released from an apartheid-era prison, Ramaphosa said the talks on Zuma's future should be handled in an orderly, purposeful manner, "in Madiba's way of doing things," - using Mandela's clan name. Ramaphosa was at Mandela's side, holding a microphone, when the leader addressed thousands outside Cape Town's city hall on the same day 28 years ago after his release. Ramaphosa had earlier on Sunday attended a service at Cape Town's Anglican St George's Cathedral. "We leave this church well armed with the good blessings and prayer ... so as the leadership of the ANC we have been well empowered as we move ahead... and as we manage this transition," Ramaphosa told reporters. St George's Cathedral was at the forefront of the anti-apartheid struggle and during a Christmas mass service last year its Archbishop Thabo Makgoba called on the new ANC leadership to act "quickly and decisively" to replace Zuma as head of state. NO-CONFIDENCE VOTE The ANC called off a special meeting of its executive body on Zuma scheduled for last Wednesday after the president and Ramaphosa agreed to hold talks on a handover of power. The party has only said that the talks were "constructive". ANC spokesman Pule Mabe said the executive committee's meeting on Monday had been brought forward from next weekend, because of the urgency of the leadership issue. Zuma, who no longer holds a top position in the party, has not said whether he will resign voluntarily before his second term as president ends in the middle of next year. Zuma also faces another no-confidence vote against his leadership in parliament on Feb. 22, brought by the ultra-left Economic Freedom Fighters party. (Additional reporting by Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo and Alexander Winning in Johannesburg; Editing by Susan Fenton and Richard Balmforth)By Wendell Roelf CAPE TOWN (Reuters) - African National Congress leader Cyril Ramaphosa avoided questions about the future of South African President Jacob Zuma on Sunday as the party's executive body called a meeting to discuss a transition of power. Zuma, in power since 2009 and battling corruption allegations, has been living on borrowed time since Ramaphosa replaced him as leader of the ruling party in December. Ramaphosa said last week that he hoped to conclude talks with Zuma on a transition of power "in coming days ... in the interests of the country." ANC spokesman Pule Mabe said the party's National Executive Committee, which has the power to instruct Zuma to resign, would meet on Monday, but Ramaphosa declined to comment further on the leadership as he arrived for a service at Cape Town's Anglican St George's Cathedral on Sunday morning. "We leave this church well armed with the good blessings and prayer... so as the leadership of the ANC we have been well empowered as we move ahead... and as we manage this transition," Ramaphosa told reporters. He was due to make a speech later on Sunday as part of year-long celebrations to mark 100 years since the birth of former President Nelson Mandela. ANC deputy secretary general Jessie Duarte said the party needed time to deal with discussions on Zuma's future. "The matters that are at hand, they are not simple matters, they are complex matters, we have faith in (Ramaphosa) and his ability to find solutions to take us forward," Duarte told local news service Eyewitness News on Sunday. A senior ANC source told Reuters that the ANC's executive committee would discuss Zuma's situation at its meeting on Monday. The party had originally planned to hold an executive meeting next weekend but Mabe said it had been brought forward to Monday to discuss the leadership. Ramaphosa looked relaxed as he arrived at church, allowing parents to take pictures of him with their children. St George's Cathedral was at the forefront of the anti-apartheid struggle and during a Christmas mass service last year its Archbishop Thabo Makgoba called on the new ANC leadership to act "quickly and decisively" to replace Zuma as head of state. NO-CONFIDENCE VOTE The ANC called off a special meeting of its executive body to discuss Zuma's future scheduled for last Wednesday after the president and Ramaphosa agreed to hold talks for a transition of power. The party has only said that the talks were "constructive". Zuma, who no longer holds a top position in the party, has not said whether he will resign voluntarily before his second term as president ends in the middle of next year. A senior ANC source told Reuters that the executive committee would meet at 1200 GMT in Pretoria on Monday. Zuma also faces another no-confidence vote against his leadership in parliament on Feb. 22, brought by the ultra-left Economic Freedom Fighters party. (Additional reporting by Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo and Alexander Winning in Johannesburg; Editing by Paul Tait and Susan Fenton)By Alana Wise

(Reuters) - Southwest Airlines Co said its operations mostly returned to normal at Chicago Midway Airport on Monday after the breakdown of one of its plane de-icing machines forced the cancellation of some 250 flights on Sunday.

A weekend winter storm in the region had blanketed the city in snow and ice, leading to hundreds of cancellations at its major airports.

Dallas-based Southwest ran into trouble de-icing its planes when a pump on one of its glycol tanks stopped working, leaving workers unable to access some of the antifreeze solution onsite.

Southwest was forced to cancel nearly all of its Sunday flights as it waited for the pump to be repaired.

"Southwest has resumed operations at Chicago (Midway) and expects to operate a close to normal schedule. The glycol has been replenished and the airport de-icing equipment is fully functional," the carrier said.

"Those developments, coupled with a more positive weather forecast for Chicago position us to safely operate our more than 250 departures out of Chicago Midway."

(Reporting by Alana Wise in New York; Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe)By Shihar Aneez and Ranga Sirilal COLOMBO (Reuters) - A political party backed by Sri Lanka's former president Mahinda Rajapaksa looks set for a landslide victory in local polls, results showed on Sunday, potentially undermining the island nation's unity government and its reform agenda. The unexpectedly strong showing could lead to defections away from the centre-left party led by President Maithripala Sirisena, a partner in the country's coalition government, analysts said, creating instability in the legislature. The local polls were the first elections since the unity government of Sirisena's centre-left Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's centre-right United National Party (UNP) took office in August 2015. Rajapaksa's Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), a party formed by breakaway members of Sirisena's party, had won control of 223 local councils out of a total 328 that had declared results as of 1545 GMT. The UNP took control of 42 councils and SLFP 10. Results for a further 42 local councils have not yet been announced. The local elections were long delayed. The councils were dissolved more than two years ago after their tenure ended. "Rajapaksa's electoral performance comes as a surprise and will be problematic for President Sirisena," Shailesh Kumar, director with political risk consultants Eurasia Group, told Reuters. Dinesh Gunawardena, an SLPP legislator, told reporters in Colombo the Sirisena "government has lost the people's mandate and should resign now". CORRUPTION CHARGES Family members of Rajapaksa, now a legislator on the opposition benches, are facing corruption charges ranging from misappropriation of state properties to unexplainable assets Two of Rajapaksas sons, Namal and Yoshitha, have been arrested and released on bail over money laundering allegations. His brother, Basil, who headed the economic development ministry, has also been arrested at least three times - twice over suspicion of misuse of anti-poverty funds and once over suspicion of laundering money and released on bail. All three men deny any wrongdoing. "The Rajapaksas will try to use this victory and destabilise the government to cover up their corruption charges," Cabinet Spokesman Rajitha Senaratne told Reuters. "But we will stand united and maintain political stability in parliament." Rajapaksa, 72, commands the backing of 54 members of parliament who have defected from Sirisena's party. The president's party has 41 legislators and the prime minister's party commands 106 MPs in the 225-member parliament. "The parliament is likely to see defections, and Rajapaksa will call the shots," Kusal Perera, a local political columnist, told Reuters. Lakshman Yapa Abeyawardene, a junior minister in Sirisena's party, said the president had discussed the situation with members of his SLFP and had said the results represented a vote against the prime minister's reform agenda. "The president wanted to tell the media that he is going to make a big change," he told Reuters, without elaborating. Rajapaksa campaigned against the government's failure to curb the cost of living and to take action against corruption, as well as against higher taxes, the privatisation of state assets, and reduced welfare for the poor and retired soldiers. The government has promised a new constitution that devolves power, the facilitation of an international probe into alleged war crimes during the final phase of a 26-year civil war, IMF-backed fiscal discipline and post-war reconciliation. However, it has yet to deliver on these reforms or on promised anti-corruption measures. The two coalition parties' unexpected defeat follows a bitter fight between them, with each blaming the other for the failures in the run-up to the local polls. The president and his supporters have opposed or neutralised many of the UNP reforms. Under the constitution, Sirisena cannot dissolve the parliament until early 2020, while the parliament needs a two-thirds majority to impeach the president. Sirisena has said he wants to take charge of the economy, which is currently handled by the UNP. Danushka Samarasinghe, research head at Softlogic Stockbrokers said the results could bring more uncertainty to the market and ongoing economic reforms could be overshadowed by parliamentary politics. (Reporting by Shihar Aneez and Ranga Sirilal; editing by Richard Pullin and Gareth Jones)Steve Bannon reportedly said he was sick of being a wet nurse to a 71-year-old man on leaving his role as White House chief strategist.

According to Bloomberg correspondent Joshua Greenauthor of Devils Bargain, about Bannon, Trump and the race for the White Housethe embattled Bannon hit out at Trump after his forced exit.

The day that Bannon was pushed out, he was very angry about it. Refused to take Trumps phone calls, Green said in a Sunday interview with CNNs State of the Union, saying that the former chief strategist had added: Im sick of being a wet nurse to a 71-year-old man.

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He [Bannon] had as many doubts and frustrations, I think, about Trumps fitness to be president, as a lot of other advisers around Trump did, he added.

Steve Bannon, Donald Trump

Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Imaes

However, following his departure from the White House, Bannon became rather more conciliatory after excerpts from Michael Wolffs tell-all book Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House were released.

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Indeed, Bannon reiterated his support for Trump after it had emerged in Fire and Fury that he had referred to Donald Trump Jr. as a traitor for meeting with a Russian lawyer during the 2016 presidential campaign, in a comment that appeared to enrage the president, who claimed the book was fake.

Michael Wolff is a total loser who made up stories in order to sell this really boring and untruthful book, Trump tweeted in January.

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!

Story continues

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And Trump continued to hit out at his former friend following the release of the books excerpts, commenting, When he was fired, he not only lost his job, he lost his mind."

Now that he is on his own, Steve is learning that winning isnt as easy as I make it look, he added at the time.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekIf you were an Israeli living in Northern Israel, you were awakened yesterday morning by sirens and sounds of explosions.

If you were in the rest of the country, you learned of attacks as you woke up, to news reports and notifications on your phones of missile warning in the North.

This morning Israeli intelligence spotted an Iranian drone taking off from an Iranian base T-4, near Tadmor Syria. Israel tracked the drone as it approached Israels border. Waiting at the border was a group of Israeli Apache attack helicopters that swiftly downed the drone.

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The Iranian action was not totally unexpected and the Israeli Air Force was ready with a quick response  a response that included attacking the Iranian base, as well as destroying the command and control vehicle that sent the drone.

GettyImages-916435924

JALAA MAREY/AFP/Getty

According to some Israeli sources, the attacks took place using stand-off advanced weaponry that did not require Israeli planes having to actually enter Syria.

The Syrians fired an unprecedented number of anti-aircraft missiles at the Israeli aircraft. One of the Israeli planes, an F-16i flying over Northern Israel, was struck by a missile. It tried to reach the Israeli air base in the Galilee, but the crew realized they would not make it and ejected.

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The plane crashed into an empty field. The pilot was seriously injured, seemingly from the missile attack on the plane, and the navigator was only slightly injured. It was the first Israeli fighter aircraft that has been shot down since 1982.

Story continues

Israel responded with a much larger strike in Syria, attacking 12 targets including 4 Iranian targets, and at least four Syrian missile emplacements destroying all of the sites that fired on the Israeli planes. According to Israeli sources, it was the largest and most successful attack on the missile system in Syria since the Lebanon War of 1982.

Israelis are now asking themselves whether we have been living in a period of false peace? Have things fundamentally changed? The answer seems to be yes.

The major change is the fact that the Iranians directly sent a drone into Israel. It is not clear if the drone was on an attack mission, or merely an intelligence mission  but the nature of the mission is not really relevant. The Iranians have taken a strategic decision to confront Israel directly, and that constitutes a change.

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Israel has made it clear that it will not allow the Iranians to establish advanced bases in Syria and the Iranians are determined to establish those bases. Additional confrontations can be expected.

The downing of an Israeli F-16i came as a surprise. While the Israeli Air Force never believed that its planes were untouchable, the fact that the plane was hit, while over Israel, clearly came as a surprise. Clearly some of the built-in advance defensive systems of the F-16 failed to work.

In reality, one should not be shocked, as no systems work 100 percent of the time. Still, the Syrians are celebrating the downing of the first Israeli planes in decades.

It should be noted that according to Israeli sources, the Iranian drone was one with an advanced semi-stealth design, based on the technology of the American RQ-170 drone, captured by the Iranians in 2011. The fact that this drone has been recovered mostly intact, should provide important intelligence about the Iranian abilities.

An additional lesson learned today was the complete absence of the United States. Not since the 1950s has America been such an irrelevant actor in events in this part of the Middle East.

Yesterday morning, the President of the United States was busy with irrelevant tweets. In an unusual move the Department of Defense was the department issuing a statement- defending Israel's right to defend itself.

Marc Schulman is a multimedia historian.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekThe death toll from a militant attack on an army base in the Indian-administered part of Kashmir climbed to 10, police said, as a seige at the compound stretched into a second day.

A firefight erupted Saturday when an unknown number of heavily-armed militants stormed the base in Jammu, the second-largest city in the disputed Himalayan region bordering Pakistan.

Authorities initially said four people were killed in the brazen pre-dawn strike, but updated the death toll as elite Indian commandos flanked by armoured vehicles searched the sprawling compound.

"Five soldiers, one civilian and four terrorists have been killed so far," police chief Shesh Paul Vaid told AFP.

Nine others, including women and children, were injured in the attack that the Indian army blamed on Pakistan-based militant group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).

Local broadcasters showed tanks rolling into the Sunjawan army camp late Saturday and a helicopter hovering overhead as the attack unfolded.

Police said the assault began around 4:55 am on Saturday (2325 GMT Friday) when guards came under a hail of bullets near the base's boundary wall.

The intruders took positions inside a residential complex meant for soldiers' families as the army launched a counter-offensive to drive them out.

It is still unclear whether any gunmen remain on the compound.

Hindu-majority Jammu, located in the foothills of the mountainous region, is relatively peaceful but has repeatedly seen militant assaults on military bases close to the frontier with Pakistan.

Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since their independence from Britain in 1947. Both claim the territory in full and have fought two wars over the region.

Tens of thousands of people, mostly civilians, have died in an armed insurgency that erupted in 1989 by militants demanding that Kashmir be granted independence or merged with Pakistan.

Saturday's attack comes 18 years after a similar militant attack on the base in 2003 that killed 12 soldiers.

Story continues

Seven soldiers were killed in an attack in Jammu after suspected Pakistani militants in police uniforms stormed a major army base in November 2016.

New Delhi accuses Islamabad of sending armed militants, including JeM, across the border to attack the roughly half a million soldiers stationed in the Indian-administered part of the divided territory, a charge denied by Pakistan.

In late 2016, India said its soldiers destroyed militant bases inside Pakistan-administered Kashmir after 19 soldiers were killed in an assault on an army base.A second grade teacher from Texas died of the flu after she skipped treatment for the virus because it "cost too much."

Heather Holland, 38, of Willow Park, Texas, was prescribed Tamiflu, an antiviral medication widely used during the flu season, after she came down with the influenza virus earlier this month.

Speaking to The Wall Street Journal, Frank Holland said that his wife decided not to take the medication after she discovered it would cost her $116.

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He said: Its principle with her. Shes a very frugal person in general, always has been.

Heather Holland

Youtube/Screenshot

Speaking to the Weatherford Democrat, Frank Holland added: "Friday night, things escalated and she ended up in the ICU. The doctors got the blood cultures back and they had to put her on dialysis early Saturday."

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By then Heather Hollands body had gone into septic shock. The mother of two died the following morning on February 4, less than a week after she first began displaying symptoms.

I have to be strong for the kids but its still surreal, it hasnt all set in, Frank Holland said. Weve been together a long time, over half my life. Shes my best friend, my soulmate, my everything.

On Saturday, Weatherford Independent School District hosted a funeral service to celebrate the life of the Ikard Elementary teacher.

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The district released a statement that read: "This is a sad time for our WISD family, especially for those who knew Mrs. Holland as a friend and colleague. Heather was an outstanding educator. She had been a member of the Ikard family since 2014 and touched the lives of many students, parents, and staff members."

Story continues

This seasons deadly flu could become the worst to hit America in nearly a decade, according to federal health officials, reported in USA Today.

The agency does not keep an exact count of adult flu deaths but closely tracks child deaths.

In the week ending February 3, 10 children were reported to have died of the virus, which brought the total infant mortality so far this season to 63, Dr. Anne Schuchat, the acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told the New Hampshire Union Leader.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekA general view of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: RHONA WISE/AFP/Getty Images

Three British people have died and three others are injured after a helicopter crashed in the Grand Canyon in the US state of Arizona.

The Foreign Office confirmed the deaths and said it was supporting the families of six Britons involved in the accident, which took place shortly after 5pm on Saturday.

Six passengers and a pilot were on board the helicopter, owned by Nevada-based company Papillon Group, when it crashed into jagged rocks by the Grand Canyons West Rim, according to the Associated Press. It is not clear what caused the crash.

A witness told reporters he saw flames and black smoke spewing from the crash site, heard explosions and saw victims who were bleeding and badly burned.

Crews reportedly had to be flown in and the survivors were airlifted to a Las Vegas hospital. Darkness, windy conditions and the fact that it was a remote area made it difficult for rescuers to reach the wreckage.

Police chief Francis Bradley told CNN: We are having difficulties getting the four people out of the crash site area to the hospital. It is too windy and its dark and the area is very rugged.

CEO of the Papillon Group Brenda Halvorson said in a statement Sunday that the company was extending its heartfelt sympathy to the families involved in the accident.

A Foreign Office spokeswoman said: We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on February 10, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services.MK Alamgir dismisses all allegations

Dismissing the allegation of his involvement in Farmers Bank scandal, its former chairman Dr Mohiuddin Khan Alamgir, MPon Mondaysaid three newspapers ran reports involving him in the irregularities with 'untrue and motivated information'.

"They (newspapers) noted I (MK Alamgir) took commission from clients before the distribution of loans. I never faced such big untrue information in my 77 years of life," he said taking floor on point of order in the House.

MK Alamgir said nobody had ever been able to bring such an allegation against his activities though he was managing director of Shilpa Bank and chairman of Krish Bank and Shilpa Rin Sangstha and executive director of Jeddah-based Islamic Development Bank in the past.

The former home minister dismissed three allegations the newspapers brought against him.

Shrugging off the allegation of taking 'commission' from clients, he said nobody can prove that any money entered his account in Farmers Bank from loanees, though the newspapers mentioned that he transferred Tk 13 crore to his bank account from a client's account onJuly 17last.

"No such money entered my account fromJuly 17to subsequent 7-10 days," he said adding that such allegation is a barrier towards creating a healthy atmosphere in society.

Rejecting another allegation, the ruling party MP said during his tenure as chairman of the Farmers Bank, they did not process any loan without approval from the central bank.

A Bangladesh Bank observer was in the Board of Members of Farmers Bank for two years who also watched the activities, he said.

Though the media said the Farmers Bank provided larger amount of loans going beyond the approved one. "I'm also turning down this allegation," Alamgir told the House.

He said they tried to recruit competent officers to the Farmers Bank. "The bank appointed the higher number of successors of freedom fighters than all private banks in the country."



A father has spoken of the death of his two sons who were passengers on a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon when it crashed over the weekend, killing three people.

Stuart Hill, 30, and Jason Hill, 32, were visiting the Grand Canyon with friends to celebrate Stuart's 30th birthday.

Their father, David Hill, this morning described them as "wonderful boys" who were "inseparable".

The brother's had been saving for the trip with a group of friends for over a year.

The Eurocopter EC130 crashed in unknown circumstances killing brothers Jason and Stuart, as well as Stuart's girlfriend Becky Dobson, 27, and leaving newlywed couple Jonathan Udall, 32, and Ellie Milward, 29, as well as Jason's girlfriend Jennifer Barham, 39, and pilot, Scott Booth, 42, fighting for their lives.

Stuart Hill and Becky Dobson were both killed in the crash

David, a chaplain, from Worthing, West Sussex, said: "The boys had been saving for over a year for this trip and they were really looking forward to it.

"They and a group of friends had all flown out to celebrate Stuart's birthday and it was part of the trip for them to all go on a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon.

"We found out yesterday about the crash and me and their mother, Sandra, are truly devastated.

"The boys were so close, they were born 22 months apart and were like twins. They were just inseparable.

Jason Hill was killed alongside his brother, Stuart, and Becky Dobson

"Jason worked as a solicitor and Stuart worked as a car salesman, they both lived very successful lives, we were so proud of them.

"We are so lucky to have had our boys for 30 years. We are so heartbroken."

The injured, who are said to have been critically hurt, were forced to wait for nine hours to be rescued before being airlifted to a Las Vegas hospital at around 2am.

Rescuers, hampered by gusts of up to 50mph, had to walk to the crash site and use night vision goggles to work their way around.

The parents of Becky Dobson arrived back in the UK this morning after breaking off a one week holiday in Turkey.

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Becky Dobson, a veterinary receptionist from Worthing, has been named as one of the victims

Ms Dobson worked as a veterinary receptionist for Vets 4 Pets in Worthing, West Sussex.

Ms Dobson's father Peter Dobson said: "She was always happy. They just went for a long weekend; a four-night break. They were staying in Vegas, they had been looking forward to it for a long time.

"They [Stuart and Becky] have known each other quite a while, they both live in Worthing," he said.

"They were really happy together, they were always going out and doing things, just enjoyed being with each other. The whole thing is just terrible."

Two of the survivors were newlyweds Jonathan Udell and Ellie Milward. The pair work for Yorkshire Building Society.

The couple went on the trip as part of their honeymoon after getting married last year, according to Jonathan's father, Philip.

Becky Dobson and Stuart Hill attended the wedding of Ellie Milward and Jonathan Udall last year Credit: Caters News Agency

Philip said the family were trying to get a flight over to their son and daughter-in-law.

He said: "We found out yesterday lunchtime that they, Jonathan and Ellie, had been involved in an accident.

"We don't know much more than what has been reported in the papers and we are just desperately trying to get a flight over at the moment.

"We have spoken to the hospital and they are in a critical condition but they told us they are currently stable.

Ellie Milward, 29, and her husband Jonathan Udall, 32, have been injured in the crash

"The information is currently quite sketchy but we know that other families will be suffering a lot worse than us at the moment. Others were not so lucky."

Jenni Birchmore, a friend and colleague of Ellie Milward, said: "Im so, so shocked by this because Ellie and I were only talking about her trip to the US a couple of weeks ago and she was looking forward to it so much.

"That is should end so horribly is a tragedy. Shes such a kind and compassionate person. Everyone she works with is praying for her."

Francis Bradley, Hualapai Nation Police chief, told The Telegraph that British consular staff had already arrived to help the victims and their families.

He said rescue teams had worked at the site until 2am on Sunday. The wreckage was found in Quartermaster Canyon, a particularly remote side valley to the Grand Canyon.

We had extreme difficulty extracting the victims from the crash due to the weather, he said.

A survivor (bottom right) was pictured fleeing from the scene of the crash Credit: Teddy Fujimoto

It was extremely windy, it was dark, the terrain was rough, our first responders had to hike in 20 minutes to get to the location to begin with.

Mr Bradley added that the helicopter had taken off from Boulder City, Nevada, for the sightseeing tour but that it was too early to speculate on any possible cause for the crash at about 5pm.

National Weather Service meteorologists in Flagstaff and Phoenix said wind conditions were an estimated 10 mph (16 kph) with gusts of 20 mph (32 kph) around the time of the crash.

Quartermaster Canyon locator

A British Foreign Office spokesman said: "We are providing support to the families of six British visitors involved in a helicopter accident at the Grand Canyon on 10 February, and we are in close contact with the US emergency services."

Gasps... then flames, smoke and explosions

A witness said he saw flames and black smoke spewing from the crash site, heard explosions and saw victims who were badly hurt.

Teddy Fujimoto, a Las Vegas photographer who was doing a wedding shoot at the time of the crash, said he suddenly saw people running toward the edge of a gulch.

He said he heard gasps and went to check out the commotion coming from about 600 feet (183 meters) below.

"In the gulch, there was a helicopter, flames, smoke," he said. "It was horrible."

An aerial view of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. File picture Credit: RHONA WISE /AFP

He said that was when two or three small explosions went off in the wreckage and people were not sure what to do.

He said some pilots of helicopters that were also out there decided to try descending into the gulch.

Tour company flies 600,000 passengers a year around Grand Canyon

The tour company released a statement on Sunday, promising full cooperation with crash investigators and offering sympathy.

"It is with extreme sadness we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families involved in this accident," Papillon Group CEO Brenda Halvorson said. "Our top priority is the care and needs of our passengers and our staff."

The Nevada-based company's website says it flies roughly 600,000 passengers a year around the Grand Canyon and on other tours.

The crash happened on the Hualapai Nation's land near Quartermaster Canyon, by the Grand Canyon's West Rim. File picture Credit: Jim Urquhart /Reuters

It notes that it "abides by flight safety rules and regulations that substantially exceed the regulations required by the Federal Aviation Administration".

In August 2001, a Grand Canyon tour helicopter operated by Papillion crashed and burned near Meaview, Arizona. The pilot and five passengers died.

An NTSB report issued in 2004 blamed the pilot's decision to descend too fast and too close to the scenic Grand Wash Cliffs.Dubai (AFP) - France's Prime Minister Edouard Philippe promised lower taxes and a business-friendly France at a global summit in Dubai on Sunday, seeking investment from the oil-rich Gulf region.

"France is undergoing great transformation," Philippe said, addressing a thousand-strong audience at Dubai's World Government Summit.

Philippe pledged a "favourable framework for business and investment" and a drop in corporate taxes in France.

The annual summit, often dubbed the Davos of the Middle East, brings together a cosmopolitan lineup of business and political figures -- with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as this year's guest of honour.

The French premier sought to contrast the policies of President Emmanuel Macron with the isolationist trends of other Western nations, including Britain leaving the European Union and US President Donald Trump's election.

On Saturday, the French premier met the heads of the two largest sovereign funds in the United Arab Emirates, as well as Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

"What I felt was their continued interest in what we were doing and prospects available in France," he said.

With sovereign funds worth more than $800 billion, but only a fraction of that -- around $3 billion -- invested in France, Paris is working to capture a larger share of UAE petrodollars.

Philippe on Sunday oversaw the signing in Dubai of a $16 billion purchase by Emirates Airlines of the Airbus A380 superjumbo commercial airliner -- a lifeline for the company.

"We must make our country more attractive to foreign investors, and there is work to be done," he told members of the French community in the United Arab Emirates late Saturday, speaking on board a French warship docked in Dubai.

The UAE hosts three French military bases.

It has also become a major contributor to the French-backed coalition fighting jihadists in Africa's Sahel region, pledging $30 million in December.Funds represent a fraction of the trillions engineers say is needed

Trump likely to face opposition from Democrats and Republicans

The crippled spillway of Oroville Dam in California. A hole formed in the spillway last year, allowing 55,000 cubic feet of water per second to flow down the slope  nearly causing disaster. Photograph: Paul Kitagaki Jr./AP

Donald Trump unveiled a $200bn plan to fix Americas crumbling infrastructure  a plan that falls woefully short of the trillions civil engineers say is needed to rebuild the countrys tattered backbone and is likely to face intense opposition from Democrats and Republicans.

Trump said in a statement: We will build gleaming new roads, bridges, highways, railways, and waterways all across our land. And we will do it with American heart, and American hands, and American grit.

He said the plans constituted the biggest and boldest infrastructure investment in American history.

Trump has earmarked $200bn in federal funds to encourage states, cities and private enterprise to rebuild the nations dams, roads, bridges, airports and other essential infrastructure. The aim is to encourage $1tn of extra investment.

Trump campaigned on the need infrastructure reform, promising to spend big on infrastructure and consistently touted his record as a builder.

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But the promised federal funds are a fraction of the $2tn that the American Society of Civil Engineers says is needed to repair US infrastructure. Last year, the ASCE gave the USs infrastructure a D+ grade and said failure to act would cost the US economy $4tn by 2025.

The plan is also likely to run into opposition in Congress. There is widespread support for public works spending among Democrats, but little appetite to work with Trump. House Democrats have already unveiled an alternative plan that would inject $1tn in direct federal spending  five times what Trump will propose  into infrastructure.

Trump is likely to face opposition, too, from fiscally conservative Republicans, especially following the passage of last years $1.5tn tax cut plan and last weeks budget agreement, which critics charge will add another $420bn to the national debt.

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Trump appeared to acknowledge on Monday that the infrastructure plan may not pass. At a press conference, he said the plan was not as important as military spending or the tax cuts he passed in December.

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What was very important to me was the military; what was very important to me was the tax cuts; and what was very important to me was regulation. This is of great importance, but its not nearly of that category because the states will have to do it themselves if we dont do it, he said.

On Monday, the White House also released its latest budget plan  a plan somewhat neutered by the Senates passing of a two-year budget deal last week. Trumps budget proposes more than $23bn for border security and immigration enforcement and $13bn to address Americas opioid addiction crisis, but is suggestive: Congress will set spending levels.

The president will meet delegates from both sides of Congress this week to push his plan this week. On Monday morning on Twitter he promoted the project.

But it is not the first time that Trump has promised a big week for infrastructure. In August, Trump launched an infrastructure week that was quickly derailed by a press conference where the he blamed both sides for the fatal violence at a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.President Donald Trump cast doubt on the possibility that the U.S. can help broker peace between Israel and the Palestinians, saying that it is likely peace negotiations wont be held.

In an interview Sunday with the conservative Israeli outlet Israel Hayom, the president stressed that neither the Israelis nor the Palestinians are interested in making peace at the moment. He also said that Israel should be careful about constructing settlements that might hinder future peace deals.

I dont know frankly if we are going to even have talks, we will see what happens, Trump said. Israel has to be careful with settlementsThe settlements are something that very much complicates and always have complicated making peace.

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Getty Images/Nicholas Kamm

The presidents son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner has been tasked with helping to negotiate a Middle East peace deal. But many experts say the administrations own policies have derailed the effort. In December, Trump officially recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Officials and experts have said the move would put an end to any chance of a negotiated settlement because East Jerusalem has long been envisioned as the capital of a future Palestinian state if and when a peace deal is reached.

Its a bit much for Trump to chide Israel for not taking the peace process seriously. In December, he recognized Jerusalem as Israels capital, without securing concessions from Israel in return," Chris Meserole, a Middle East expert at the Brookings Institution, told Newsweek. "Trump can hardly blame Israel now for not fully engaging the peace processhe clearly has yet to do so himself.

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The announcement also riled U.S. allies in the Middle East like Jordan and Turkey.

Israeli settlements in parts of the West Bank are also a point of contention because Palestinians view the Israeli settlers as occupiers. More than 600,000 Jews live in around 140 settlements built since Israel's occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem in 1967. The international community considers the settlements illegal when they pass the Green Line, a demarcation line drawn after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.

The settlements are also illegal under the Fourth Geneva Convention, which stipulates that an occupying power shall not deport or transfer parts of its own civilian population into the territory it occupies. But Trump has failed to implement policies that would stop the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from pursuing the construction of more Jewish settlements on land claimed by the Palestinians.

At first glance, Sundays interview appears to be a stunning reversal for an administration that has been vocally supportive of Israel and appears ready to back Netanyahus policies unconditionally. But experts say it is unlikely that Trumps comments will be accompanied by policies that would pressure Israel to stop building settlements.

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He didnt raise the issue of settlements, he was asked about it and gave a word salad response that implies nothing. Its like rolling in place. There was nothing that indicated that there will be any pressure on Israel in response to the settlements, Lara Friedman, president of the Washington-based Foundation for Middle East Peace, told Newsweek.

Since this administration came in, what they say has matched what their feet are doing. They are suggesting policies that are sympathetic to the Israeli right and far-right. There is nothing in [the interview] that contradicts their policy, Friedman continued.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu indicated Monday that he has been engaged in discussions with the U.S. about potentially annexing settlements in the West Bank and bringing them under Israeli law.

On the subject of applying sovereignty, I can say that I have been talking to the Americans about it for some time, Netanyahu said during a meeting with his party.

In response, peace advocates called on the Trump administration to warn Israel against such a move.

The fact that Prime Minister Netanyahu is now openly contemplating annexation of Israeli settlements is beyond dangerous, Jeremy Ben-Ami, President of the pro-Israel peace group J Street, said in a statement. It would be completely irresponsible for the Trump administration to contemplate endorsing unilateral annexation in any way. US officials should be strongly warning Israel that such a move would be unacceptable.

This article was first written by Newsweek

More from NewsweekPresident Trump appeared to express doubt on Saturday about the multiple accusations of domestic violence that led to the resignations former White House staff secretary Rob Porter and speechwriter David Sorensen.

Peoples [sic] lives are being shattered and destroyed by a mere allegation, Trump tweeted. Some are true and some are false. Some are old and some are new. There is no recovery for someone falsely accused  life and career are gone. Is there no such thing any longer as Due Process?

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The tweet came a day after Trump publicly addressed the Porter scandal, repeating Porters denial without mentioning his alleged victims.

We wish him well, Trump said while speaking to reporters at the White House. Its obviously a tough time for him. He did a very good job when he was in the White House. And we hope he has a wonderful career. And hopefully he will have a great career ahead of him. But it was very sad when we heard about it. And certainly hes also very sad. Now he also, as you probably know, he says hes innocent. And I think you have to remember that.

In an op-ed for Time magazine, Jennie Willoughby, Porters second ex-wife, treated Trumps remarks as an insult.

The words mere allegation and falsely accused meant to imply that I am a liar, Willoughby wrote. That the work Rob was doing in the White House was of higher value than our mental, emotional or physical wellbeing. That his professional contributions are worth more than the truth. That abuse is something to be questioned and doubted.

While Willoughy said she was floored by Trumps remarks, she cant say I was surprised.

It wasnt that surprising. Trump has a long history of defending men accused of sexual harassment and assault, including himself, but with the conspicuous exception of political opponents such as Bill Clinton and Al Franken.

Feb. 21, 1992

On NBC Nightly News, Trump defended boxer Mike Tyson, who was convicted of raping Desiree Washington, Miss Black Rhode Island, in an Indianapolis hotel room the year before. Tyson was sentenced to six years in prison.

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Its my opinion that, to a large extent, Mike Tyson was railroaded in this case, Trump said. You have a young woman that was in his room, his hotel room late in the evening at her own will. You have a young woman who was seen dancing for the beauty contest [the next day], dancing with a big smile on her face, looked happy as could be.

March 29, 2016

After his campaign manager Corey Lewandowski was charged with misdemeanor battery after an alterecation with Breitbart News reporter Michelle Fields, Trump questioned the injuries she sustained when she reported the incident to police.

How do you know those bruises werent there before? Trump told reporters aboard his campaign plane. The then Republican candidate also questioned the closed-circuit television footage of the altercation.

To me, you know if youre going to get squeezed, wouldnt you think that she would have yelled out a scream or something? he said. Take a look at her facial expression  her facial expression doesnt even change.

Trump refused to criticize Lewandowski, who claimed, despite video evidence, that he never touched and had never even met Fields.

Im sticking up for a person because Im not going to let a persons life be destroyed, Trump said.

July 23, 2016

After former Fox News chairman Roger Ailes resigned in the wake of host Gretchen Carlsons sexual harassment lawsuit, Trump issued a full-throated defense of the disgraced executive.

I can tell you that some of the women that are complaining, I know how much hes helped them, the then Republican nominee said on NBCs Meet the Press. And when they write books that are fairly recently released, and they say wonderful things about him. And now all of a sudden theyre saying these horrible things about him.

Its very sad, Trump lamented. Because hes a very good person. Ive always found him to be just a very, very good person. And by the way, a very, very talented person. Look what hes done. So I feel very badly.

Oct. 13, 2016

Trump lashed out at more than a dozen women who accused him of various forms of sexual misconduct.

These people are horrible people, Trump said at a rally in Florida. Theyre horrible, horrible liars. And it happens to appear 26 days before our very important election.

He also threatened to sue the New York Times for printing a story about one of his accusers, suggesting the woman was part of a conspiracy by the Times and Hillary Clinton to derail his campaign.

You take a look. Look at her, Trump said, suggesting one of his accusers was not attractive enough for him to have pursued. You tell me what you think. I dont think so.

April 5, 2017

Nine months after Ailess ouster, Trump came to the defense of Bill OReilly in the wake of a bombshell report that the top-rated Fox News host had paid settlements to at least five women who made harassment claims against him. OReilly was forced to leave Fox News after nearly 20 years at the top-rated cable network.

Trump said that OReilly, his longtime friend, shouldnt have settled with his accusers.

I dont think Bill did anything wrong, Trump told the New York Times. I think hes a person I know well. He is a good person.

Nov. 21, 2017

Trump urged Alabama voters to look past the disturbing allegations against Republican Senate candidate Roy Moore because the alternative was a Democrat.

At least nine women accused Moore of behavior ranging from uncomfortable and unwanted overtures to sexual assault. Most of the accusers said the misconduct occurred when they were teenagers and Moore was in his 30s. Moore fiercely denied the assault allegations.

As he did in Porters case, Trump quickly pointed to Moores denials.

Well, he denies it, Trump told reporters at the White House. Look, he denies it.

He says it didnt happen. And you know, you have to listen to him also.

Read more from Yahoo News:ANKARA (Reuters) - A Turkish prosecutor launched a terrorism investigation into the new co-leader of the pro-Kurdish opposition on Monday, a day after she was elected, accusing her of speaking against Turkey's offensive in Syria. The chief prosecutor in Ankara accused Pervin Buldan of describing the operation against a Kurdish militia in Syria as an attack on civilian Kurds, during a speech at the conference that named her co-leader of the People's Democratic Party (HDP). A similar investigation was also launched against another prominent HDP lawmaker, Sirri Sureyya Onder, the prosecutor said. "An investigation has been launched into lawmakers Pervin Buldan and Sirri Sureyya Onder by the chief prosecutor for the crimes of carrying out terror propaganda, inciting grudges and enmity in the public," a document from the prosecutor's office said. An investigation by a prosecutor is the first step in collecting evidence for an indictment, and could lead to the detention of the accused. Turkey launched an air and ground offensive, dubbed Operation Olive Branch, against the Kurdish YPG militia in Syria's northwestern Afrin region last month. Authorities have said they would prosecute those opposing or criticizing the incursion, and some 666 people have been detained so far. The arrests of those accused of criticizing the Syria offensive come amid a wider political crackdown in Turkey that followed a failed coup in 2016. More than 50,000 people have been arrested and more than 150,000 have been fired or suspended from jobs. The HDP, parliament's second-largest opposition party, elected Buldan and Sezai Temelli as its co-heads at the congress in Ankara. Its previous co-leaders and several other prominent members are in jail for alleged links to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has waged a decades-long insurgency in Turkey. They deny the charges. Turkey considers the Syrian Kurdish YPG an extension of the PKK and launched its operation in Syria to sweep the fighters from its southern border. That has complicated relations with NATO ally Washington, which backs the YPG in the fight against Islamic State. During a speech on Sunday, Buldan called for the end of Turkey's operation in Syria and the revival of peace talks between the government and the PKK. Such talks have been frozen since a ceasefire broke down in July 2015, and the largely Kurdish southeast subsequently saw some of the worst violence since the insurgency began. "Give up on war policies that lead to pain and destruction. The solution is not in fighting, it is in peace," she said. (Reporting by Gulsen Solaker; Writing by Ali Kucukgocmen; Editing by David Dolan and Peter Graff)(Reuters) - A Florida woman on Monday pleaded guilty to abducting a newborn from a Jacksonville hospital in 1998, and will be sentenced to more than 20 years in prison, according to court proceedings.

The woman, Gloria Williams, was arrested in January 2017 after Kamiyah Mobley, then 18, was located in Walterboro, South Carolina. Mobley was found, apparently unharmed according to police, after more than 2,500 tips on the case to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Williams, now 52, had raised Mobley as her own child, changing her name to Alexis Manigo, a name the teen has continued to use. DNA analysis matched Manigo with her birth parents.

Manigo told Jacksonville's WJXT-TV that she was hoping for Williams to get a sentence of less than 10 years.

Williams entered a negotiated plea of guilty to kidnapping and interference with custody in a Jacksonville courtroom.

The charges against Williams could have brought a life sentence, if she were to be found guilty at a trial. Her plea agreement calls for her to serve up to 22 years on the kidnapping count and five years on a charge of interference of child custody, according to a Florida 4th Circuit Court proceeding viewed live online. Sentencing is set for early May.

Neither Manigo nor her birth parents were in the Jacksonville court on Monday, the Florida Times-Union newspaper in Jacksonville reported.

The child was only hours old when a woman, dressed as a nurse in a flowered smock and green hospital pants, abducted her from her mother's room, according to the 1998 incident report.

(Reporting by Mike Cooper in Atlanta; Editing by Scott Malone and David Gregorio)Washington (AFP) - Two Ohio police officers were shot and killed while responding to an emergency call during a possible domestic violence incident Saturday, authorities said.

Officers Anthony Morelli, 54, and Eric Joering, 39, were "immediately met with gunfire" when they arrived around noon at an apartment in Westerville, Police Chief Joe Morbitzer told reporters.

Morelli had served on the force for 29 years, while Joering had been with Westerville police for 16 years.

The officers responded after police received a 911 call and the caller hung up.

"These were two of the best we have. This was their calling, and they did it right," Morbitzer said, choking back tears.

A procession was held in honor of the fallen officers.

The suspect, who was wounded and taken to a local hospital, is now in police custody. Police did not immediately confirm the suspect's condition.

The incident prompted President Donald Trump to share his condolences on Twitter.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the two police officers, their families, and everybody at the @WestervillePD," he wrote.

Ohio Governor John Kasich, who calls Westerville his home town, said the officers' "deaths are a terrible tragedy for my hometown of Westerville and all of Ohio."Lucy Helen gets long cherished BD citizenship

Staff reporter :

Lucy Helen Frances Holt, the 88-year-old British missionary got her long cherished Bangladesh citizenship she was dreaming over the decades. She came to Bangladesh in 1960 and was serving rural communities at different places over the past 57 years.

Born in 1930 in England she came to then then East Pakistan and started as a primary school teacher at Oxford Mission in Barisal and never looked back ever since. She worked, Naogaon, Gopalgonj, Kurigram, and

Dhaka over the past years and she is still rendering services to the communities.

The Home Ministry honored her with the citizenship following a decision in an inter ministerial meeting on Monday acting on an application from her in recognition of her life long service to the people of Bangladesh.

M Habibur Rahman, deputy commissioner of Barisal met Lucy Holt at the Oxford Mission church in the city with flowers and sweetmeats to convey her of the government decision.

An emotion choked Lucy in a simple reaction said her dream has come true and thanked the government of Bangladesh and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in particular for the gesture.

Habibur Rahman said the citizenship certificate would be handed over to her any time before February 21 at a function befitting to the occasion.

Earlier, Bangladesh government granted 15-year multiple entry visa with a fee waiver to Lucy Holt taking her special position in consideration.

During the Bangladesh war of independence in 1971 she served injured freedom fighters at a field hospital in Jessore.

After retirement in 2004, she has been working for the mentally retarded students at the Oxford Mission School and teaching English at the School.

Her last wish is that she be buried in Barisal after her death.(Reuters) - A tourist helicopter crashed in the United States' Grand Canyon on Saturday, killing three people and injuring four others, Arizona media and a federal aviation spokesman said.

The helicopter was on a tour of the canyon, one of the top U.S. tourist destinations and more than a mile (1.6 km) deep, when it went down, a dispatcher for the Hualapai Department of Emergency Services told Phoenix television station KNXV.

He said three people were killed and four had unknown injuries, and that authorities were possibly looking for one or two more people, the station reported.

The Hualapai Department of Emergency Services directed calls to police, who did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

The helicopter, an Eurocopter EC130 from Airbus, "crashed under unknown circumstances in the Grand Canyon" and suffered substantial damage, Allen Kenitzer, a spokesman for the Federal Aviation Administration, said in an email.

"Local authorities say that at least seven people were on board the helicopter," he said. The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate, Kenitzer said.

(Reporting by Ian Simpson; Editing by Paul Tait)London (AFP) - Britain's Serious Fraud Office said Monday that it has charged Barclays Bank over the lender's emergency fundraising from Qatar during the financial crisis a decade ago.

Barclays Bank's parent company, Barclays PLC, and four former top executives were already charged over the same alleged offence last June, but the SFO has now decided to extend the charges.

It is the first time that a British bank is facing a criminal trial over its conduct during the notorious 2008 global financial crisis.

On Monday, the SFO revealed that it had also charged the lender's Barclays Bank PLC division with fraud, over the $3.0-billion (2.4-billion-euro) loan given by the bank to Qatar ten years ago in return for financial aid the other way.

"The Serious Fraud Office has today charged Barclays Bank PLC with unlawful financial assistance," the SFO said in a statement.

"The charges relate to financial assistance Barclays Bank gave to Qatar Holding between October 1 and November 30 2008, which was in the form of a $3.0-billion loan for the purpose of directly or indirectly acquiring shares in Barclays PLC."

The charges concern emergency funding secured from Qatari investors in 2008 as the global banking sector went into meltdown.

In order to avoid asking the UK government for a taxpayer bailout, Barclays raised nearly A12 billion (13.5 billion euros, $16.6 billion) from investors in the Middle East, including the Qatari state sovereign wealth fund, to help it weather the storm.

In turn, Barclays loaned $3.0 billion to the State of Qatar.

By contrast, rivals Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds had to have billions of pounds of British taxpayers' money pumped into them.

The SFO investigation arose amid concerns that Barclays may have been effectively lending itself money, known as "financial assistance", which is illegal.

The bank said it would fight the charges brought against both Barclays PLC and Barclays Bank PLC. And it did not expect the charges to have any impact on customers or clients.

Story continues

The case against Barclays PLC and the four former executives -- ex-CEO John Varley and Roger Jenkins, Thomas Kalaris and Richard Boath -- is scheduled to go to court in 2019.

Investors shrugged off the news on Monday.

"Although a potential worry, the news was no great surprise for investors," noted Ian Forrest, analyst at The Share Centre.

"That was reflected by the fact that the market took the news in its stride... in early trading, in line with the generally positive market mood."

Barclays' share price was up almost 0.7 percent at 194.18 pence in afternoon deals on London's FTSE 100 index, which was 1.2 percent higher at 7,177.77 points.Washington (AFP) - A Russian man promising stolen hacking tools and compromising information on President Donald Trump fleeced American spies for $100,000 last year, The New York Times reported Friday.

In a story worthy of a John le Carre novel that included secret USB-drive handovers in a small West Berlin bar and coded messages delivered over the National Security Agency's Twitter account, CIA agents reportedly spent much of last year trying to buy back from the Russian hacking programs stolen from the NSA.

The seller, who was not identified but had links to both cyber criminals and Russian intelligence, tantalized the US spies with an offer of the NSA hacking tools that had been advertised for sale online by a shady group called the Shadow Brokers.

Some of the tools, developed by the NSA to break into the computers of US rivals, were used by other hackers last year to break into computer systems around the world, including the global malware attack last May.

The seller, reached through a chain of intermediaries, wanted $1 million.

The $100,000, delivered in a cash-stuffed suitcase handed over in a Berlin hotel room, was an initial payment by US agents still dubious he really had what he was promising.

- Trump kompromat -

The seller also repeatedly pressed US agents with offers of compromising materials, or kompromat, on Trump, the Times said, citing US and European intelligence officials.

Although an investigation was already underway back in Washington on the link between Moscow and the Trump campaign, the agents did not want to get involved in anything that smelled of the politics back home.

The story -- which was also reported by The Intercept, an online magazine on nationals security matters -- paints a classic spy versus spy story where the US agents aren't ever certain about who they are dealing with and whether or not they are being baited and played by their Russian counterparts.

US intelligence officials say Russia interfered with the 2016 election to help elect Trump, and continues to use disinformation to sow confusion in the American political system.

Story continues

The Intercept reported that the operation created rifts in the CIA, which is led by Trump loyalist Mike Pompeo but has many staffers still smarting over the president's repeated harsh comments about the intelligence community's role in the Russia meddling investigation.

The Russian's first delivery turned out to be hacking tools the Shadow Brokers had already released.

And he kept pushing his offer of kompromat on Trump, including shady financial records and a sex video that the US spies didn't really want.

In the end, the deal broke down last month -- the Russian did not come up with any of the unreleased NSA materials, and the Trump-related materials were either already known or untrustworthy.

The Russian was told by the Americans to leave Western Europe and not return, according to the Times.GUASIPATI, Venezuela (Reuters) - Soldiers clashed with illegal miners in southern Venezuela on the weekend, killing 18 people in a region notorious for violence and gang rivalries, a lawmaker and local media said.

Bolivar state Governor Justo Noguera said a military unit had fought off an attack, but gave no more details. "An investigation is under way," he told reporters.

Local newspaper Correo del Caroni reported that 17 men and one woman died in the incident on Saturday morning in an area known for gold and diamond mining.

Echoing that number, a local opposition lawmaker, Americo De Grazia, said relatives had described the victims as having bullets in the head. "Massacres are the narco-dictatorship's state policy," he said, accusing the security forces.

The government did not respond to requests for comment.

Clashes over illegal mines are common in the remote, mineral-rich area near the border of Guyana, with at least 17 people killed in a gang feud there in 2016.

That year, President Nicolas Maduro declared the area a strategic priority, naming it the Mining Arc and declaring war on the hundreds of illegal miners from Venezuela and neighboring Brazil who try to make a living there.

Local media said the army captured guns and explosives during Saturday's operation.

(Reporting by William Urdaneta in Guasipati, Carlos Suniaga in El Callao and Ana Isabel Martinez in Caracas; Writing by Andrew Cawthorne; Editing by Peter Cooney and Alistair Bell)



Tamlynn Yoder, 25, of Lake Park, Fla., lost her job at Outback Steakhouse after she complained in a social media post about not getting a tip.

Christ Fellowship Church placed a $735 takeout order and sent someone to pick it up. They did not leave a gratuity for the order.

We take the order over the phone, we put the order together, take payment and then take order to the car, Yoder told the Palm Beach Post. Its a lot of work just as much as serving.

Yoder took to Facebook in frustration and called out Christ Church on not leaving a tip, but didnt mention where she worked.

A friend of Yoders told her to delete the post and that he would call the church about the tip. When Yoder came into work the next day, she was told that the church had been given a full refund and that she was fired.

Cathie Koch, a spokeswoman for Outback Steakhouse, told the Post that its company policy to not allow employees to post on social media about customers and wouldnt discuss specifics of this incident.

We did not call the restaurant to have her fired; we wanted to get the situation resolved, said David Lonsberry, an executive director of business for Christ Fellowship, in an interview with the Post.

Lonsberry went on to say that the person they sent to pick up the food didnt realize that a tip is customary on takeout orders.

He probably didnt know to tip since it was a rush of the moment thing, said Lonsberry. The volunteer was sent because Outbacks delivery service was delayed.

Yoder is looking for a new job and says that shell stay in the service industry. One day I would like to own my own restaurant, Yoder told the Post. I love this business.

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Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.(Reuters) - A former police officer who said he was fired after not shooting a man wielding an unloaded gun during a domestic dispute agreed to drop his lawsuit against the West Virginia city he worked in after reaching a settlement, his lawyers said on Monday.

Stephen Mader arrived at the home in Weirton on May 6, 2016, to find Ronald Williams distraught and wanting to commit "suicide by cop," according to his lawsuit. Williams pleaded with Mader to shoot him.

Mader said Williams did not appear to be a threat and he tried to calm him. Two other officers arrived and one shot and killed Williams, whose gun turned out not to be loaded.

Mader was fired soon after in what he said was "a flawed effort to buttress the other officer's use of deadly force," according to the wrongful termination lawsuit he filed last year against Weirton in West Virginia federal court.

Weirton officials defended Mader's firing at the time. They said Mader had worsened the situation by cursing at Williams and in two other incidents wrongly searched a vehicle without a warrant and contaminated a crime scene.

Mader, 27, agreed to drop the lawsuit after reaching the settlement with the city, the American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia (ACLU-WV), which helped file the lawsuit, said. Weirton agreed to pay Mader $175,000.

"At the end of the day, I'm happy to put this chapter of my life to bed," Mader said in a statement. He grew up in the small city of some 20,000 residents, about 20 miles (32 km) west of Pittsburgh.

Weirton's city manager, Travis Blosser, did not respond to a request for comment.

The ACLU-WV's executive director, Joseph Cohen, said in a statement that Mader's firing was "yet another incident exposing the toxic culture that infects far too many police departments in America."

Since his firing, Mader has found work as a truck driver, the ACLU-WV said.

(Reporting by Jonathan Allen in New York; Editing by Ian Simpson)Hasina meets Pope Francis

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina meets with Pope Francis at the Holy See in Vatican City. Pope presenting souvenir and gift to PM on Monday.

UNB, Rome (Italy) :

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday had a meeting with Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Catholics of the world, at the Holy See in Vatican City.

"The Prime Minister visited Vatican City in the morning (Local time) at the invitation of the Pope and had an audience with him at the Vatican City near the Italian capital of Rome,"

PM's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim said.

On her arrival at the Vatican City at 10am, the Prime Minister was given a static guard of honour.

Later, the Prime Minister held the meeting with the Pope at his office in Vatican City.

After the meeting, Sheikh Hasina introduced her entourage to the Pope.

She also presented a painting on natural beauty of Bangladesh to the Pope who later gave a crest to Sheikh Hasina. The Pope also presented souvenirs to the Prime Minister's entourage.

Hasina's meeting with the Pope came two months after the catholic community's top spiritual leader visited Dhaka largely to use his good office in resolving the Rohingya crisis mounting pressure on Myanmar to stop atrocities on Rohingyas and take the displaced people back home with dignity.

Pope Francis visited Bangladesh from November 31 to December 2 last at the invitation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The Prime Minister also had a meeting with Secretary State of Vatican City Cardinal Pietro Parolin in Vatican City.

She also visited Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica. The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, in Vatican City from where he delivers the religious and functionary papal activities.

St. Peter's Basilica is an Italian Renaissance church in Vatican City, the papal enclave within the city of Rome.

Designed principally by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, St. Peter's is the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture and the largest church in the world.The Mida website is the online version of Channel 20. Alternatively, it is the Israeli version of the Breitbart website, the mouthpiece of the radical right in the Trump administration. Every day, Mida features attacks on anti-corruption protestors, on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus critics and on leftist and centrist parties.

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One of the websites leading writers is Erez Tadmor, co-founder of the Im Tirzu organization. The websites founder, Ran Baratz , who was appointed by Netanyahu as head of public diplomacy in the Prime Ministers Office, resigned and returned to Mida, and the prime minister has even shared articles from the website on his Facebook page.

The Tikvah Fund's offices in Israel (Photo: Amit Shabi)

One of Midas favorite targets is the New Israel Fund (NIF), which it accuses of a foreign political influence on Israeli democracy. A recent Yedioth Ahronoth investigation , however, turned the spotlight on the activity of the American Tikvah Fund, which promotes a conservative agenda in Israelfor example, by opposing the disabled protests or an expansion of the health basket. The bodies financed by this fund include the Mida website, Shalem College and the Kohelet Policy Forum. The funds chairman is American billionaire Roger Hertog, who has donated to Netanyahu and to the US Republican Party.

On an Israeli scale, these bodies receive massive funding. The Shalem College, for example, has been given some $70 million in donations from the Tikvah Fund since 2001.

Tikvah is a very large fund. It has about $150 million in its cofferfive times the budget of the NIF. Other American funds are active in Israel as well, promoting different goals from the development of educational programs to and advancement of the Hebron settlement. Despite receiving massive funding from the United States, the Right keeps complaining about a foreign influence in the Left, personally attacking left-wing activists and advancing legislation limiting the activity of civil society organizations.

By the way, when Yedioth asked Baratz why he keeps attacking the NIF while being financed by the Tikvah Fund, which engages in similar activity, he played dumb, saying that it was merely ideological activity. If the Tikvah Fund joins political parties or petitions the court, he said, I wont be there. But the Kohelet Policy Forum, which the fund also donates to, has already petitioned the Supreme Court on issues related to the Settlement Division and asylum seekers. The Tikvah Fund itself holds seminars together with the Likud and Bayit Yehudi parties.

The Tikvah Fund's headquarters in Israel (Photo: Tikvah Fund)

Its time to stop this hypocrisy. The political debate between the Right and the Left deals with a variety of issues. The Tikvah Fund has a right to attack the social protest or support settlements, just like the NIF has a right to advance social justice issues and oppose the settlements. The fact that both funds are financed by American Jews actually bolsters their activity in Israel, because the Jewish peoples involvement in the states affairs is a deep reflection of Zionism and this is something we must encourage, rather than inform those Jews condescendingly that they should send checks to the IDF and to our hospitals but that they are not allowed to talk about prayer rights or about the occupation.

On a deeper level, its time to acknowledge the fact that we are living in a global era, in which political debates cross national borders, and just as well. Iran and North Korea know how to handle foreign influences; I doubt thats the model we wish to live by.

The exposure of the Tikvah Funds activity presents an opportunity for a thorough examination in the Israeli Right, after years of turning political persecution and censorship into its primary tool. The philanthropic activity in Israel is legitimate and welcome, especially coming from the Jewish community. Its time for us to go back to talk about values, policy and ideas, focusing on the case in question. There is room for everyone in this debate, even for the Tikvah Fund and for the Mida website.Five people, including a suspected gunman who apparently took his own life, were killed in a shooting spree at two locations in northeastern Kentucky, officials said on Sunday.

Police received a 911 call about 4pm on Saturday about a shooting at a rural home near Paintsville, about 160 miles (260 km) southeast of Louisville, Johnson County Sheriff Dwayne Price said in a statement on Facebook.

Officers found two people dead at the home then began searching for the shooter, Price said in the statement. A second 911 call led deputies and police to an apartment in Paintsville, where three people were found fatally shot, including the gunman, the statement said.

Officials identified the gunman as Joseph Nickell, but no other information about him was made available. The victims were identified on Sunday by Kentucky State Police as the suspect's mother, Arlene Nickell and his father, James Nickell, killed at the rural home. Also killed, at the apartment in Paintsville, were his girlfriend, Lindsey Vanhoose, and her mother, Patricia Vanhoose.Asian cuisine is one of the fastest-growing niches in Israels culinary scene, with eateries serving everything from street food to gourmet repasts, and representing every conceivable price range.

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What follows is a list of four restaurants boasting extensive menus that offer attractive weekly or daily deals on delicious food. No attempt has been made to rank the restaurants; rather, they are listed in alphabetical order. All have English menus; unfortunately, none are certified kosher.

Asia

Ambiance: A casual bar cum restaurant that occupies the middle and both sides of a pedestrian street in the heart of Jaffas flea market.

Beverages: Full bar with specialty cocktails and virgin cocktails, imported and domestic beers (including Israeli craft beers), wine and soft drinks. A pot of green or jasmine tea is included in the meal, as well as shots (chasers) of unfiltered sake.

(Photo: Buzzy Gordon)

Deal Hours:

Every evening except Friday, 7pm-8:30pm.

Menu:

The special six-course, fixed-price dinner menu is called Pacific Time (if the wait staff does not bring it along with the regular menu, request it). The coursessoup, starter, and three subsequent dishesare meant to be shared by two people.

(Photo: Buzzy Gordon)

The restaurant specializes in cuisine from the golden triangle: Vietnam, Thailand and south China. There is a reasonable selection of vegetarian/vegan dishes. There are three Asian desserts not included in the special menu.

(Photo: Buzzy Gordon)

Recommended:

Chicken and crab broth with crab and shrimp wonton; leek and chive bao; night in Ho Chi Minh salad (calamari, root vegetables, peanuts); red seafood curry over rice noodles; red flam mushrooms and cabbage (shimeji mushrooms and greens in oyster sauce).

(Photo: Buzzy Gordon)

Price:

The two sharing menus are either NIS 120 or NIS 148 per person. When ordering from the more expensive menu, you can choose from either list of courses. Cocktails during Pacific Time are reduced by more than 50 percent, to NIS 22.

Asia. Rabbi Nahman 3, Jaffa. Tel. (050) 542-7775

Sui Sushi

Ambiance: The newest branch of the Sui Sushi chain of Asian restaurants, in the London Ministore complex, has been designed in the minimalist style of a sushi bar in Japan, with light wood furnishings and a bar fronting the area where the sushi chef works. There is both indoor and al fresco seating.

Beverages: Imported (particularly from Japan) and domestic beers, sake, wine and soft drinks.

Deal Hours:

Business lunches, Sunday-Thursday, 12pm-4pm; Friday, 12pm-2pm.

Menu: There are three categories on the page of Entrees (starters)Cold (salads, veggies and a spring roll), Hot (tempura, gyoza and crispy egg rolls) and Soupsand several pages of Specials comprising multiple sections: Vegetarian, Noodles, Rice, Fish (which contains one chicken dish), Seafood, Sushi, Sushi Combinations, Sashimi and Nigiri. Many of the dishes listed under Fish and Seafood come in the form of sushi rolls. While the menu contains predominantly Japanese dishes, there are Thai and Chinese dishes as well. There is a separate dessert menu, with three Western desserts.

Recommended:

Tempura, if you like extraand crispycoating; gyoza, if you like your Japanese dumplings steamed rather than fried; and the tom yum soup, which comes with noodles.

Price:

Sushi business lunchesstarter or soup, sushi and a soft drinkNIS 39 to NIS 59; specials business lunchesstarter/soup, main course (noodles, rice or gyoza) and a soft drinkNIS 40 to NIS 48. Additions to business lunches, such as tempura, are available at reduced prices (The tom yum soup is not on the business lunch menu, but it is reasonably priced at all times).

Sui Sushi. Shaul Hamelekh 4, Tel Aviv. Tel. (03) 741-7111.

Taya

Ambiance:

A modern, attractive setting in a suburban shopping center, with indoor and al fresco seating. There is lots of free parking.

Beverages:

Full bar with specialty cocktails, imported and domestic beers (including Israeli craft beers), wine, sake, and soft drinks. There are is a warm cocktail list in the winter.

(Photo: Buzzy Gordon)

Deal Hours: There are three special deals, at three different times.

Discounted business lunches are served Sunday to Thursday, 12pm-5pm.





(Photo: Roni Nehmad)

1+1

(buy one, get one free) on all noodle dishes (including noodles in soup), Sundays from 5pm.

Ladies night: 2+1 (buy two, get one free) on alcohol and sushi ordered by women, Wednesdays from 5pm.

(Photo: Roni Nehmad)

Menu:

The trilingual pan-Asian and sushi menu is electronic, on iPads. The food categories are Starters (cold salads and warm dishes), Sushi rolls (cold and hot), Rice plus, Nudles (sic), Specials and Desserts (seven Western sweets). There is also a kids menu, a vegan menu, and gluten free options.

Recommended:

Calamari Bong; Zoe green papaya salad; Indonesian lo mein; Coconut Dragon noodles in coconut milk soup; warm spicy salmon roll. For dessert, the Nut Bar.

(Photo: Buzzy Gordon)

Prices: 15 percent off the entire menu during business lunch hours. The 1+1 and 2+1 deals are available only to members of the restaurants loyalty club; it is free to join, online or in person (the restaurant prefers you register 24 hours in advance).

Taya. HaOfe St 1, Kadima Tzoran. Tel. (09) 772-8878.

The Thai on Har Sinai

Ambiance:

Bare bones furnishings indoors and outside in the courtyard of Tel Avivs Great Synagogue shared with other popular restaurants.

Beverages: Full bar with specialty cocktails, imported and domestic beers, wine and soft drinks

(Photo: Liron Harel)

Deal Hours:

Business lunches (and other discounts), Sunday to Thursday, 12pm-3pm

Menu:

There are three business lunch menus featuring lots of choices from a menu that comprises six categories: salads, soup, grill, curry, wok and noodles. Dishes are labeled as to level of spiciness, but the restaurant is very accommodating about adjusting the heat. There are vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

(Photo: Liron Harel)

Recommended:

Som Tam (green papaya salad); chicken satay with peanut sauce; Tom Khaa Talay (coconut milk soup); Gai Phad Med (chicken and cashew nuts with rice).

Price:

NIS 59 and NIS 69 for two-course lunches, NIS 79 for a three-course lunch. Four specialty cocktails and selected dishes are discounted.

The Thai on Har Sinai. Simtat Har Sinai 1, Tel Aviv. Tel. (054) 201-7132Israel Air Force Commander Major-General Amikam Norkin visited the Rambam Medical Center in Haifa on Sunday and told Major A., the combat pilot who was seriously wounded in the F-16 crash in northern Israel on Saturday morning, that his decision to evacuate the plane after a mission over Syria was the right thing to do.

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"As soon as you realized you had to abandon the plane, you made the right decision, thereby saving the navigator's life and your own life," he told the pilot.

The Air Force commander with the wounded pilot (Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)

Major A.'s condition has improved since Saturday and is now defined as moderate. The navigator, who was lightly wounded, has already been discharged from the hospital.

The navigator described in detail Sunday what had happened the moment the F-161 Soufa fighter jet was hit by a Syrian antiaircraft missile . "We were extremely focused on the mission," he recounted. "We led the attack, and then there was an explosion and we realized we had been hit. It's a very uncomfortable feeling, a feeling of loss a control.

"The evacuation is immediate," he added, according to a Yedioth Ahronoth report. "It's not a long process, and there's no time either. It's just a few seconds. You realize that you have to hurry and evacuate, both because of the hit, the physical hit, and because of the damage to the plane, which stopped functioning.

"We had a lot of luck too, because such a strong blast near the plane could have killed us. Nevertheless, the missile exploded at a certain distance from the plane and the shrapnel caused enough damage. But there was no yelling in the cockpit, and the decision to evacuate was made within seconds."

F-16 crash

X

According to the navigator, the pilot remained focused on the evacuation despite being wounded. "The pilot was conscious," he said. "We coordinated the ejection between us, from the preparation, examining the seating position and pressing our arms together so we wouldn't get hurt. We repeated the orders in the intercom and then activated the ejector seat."

The head of IAF Air Division, Brig. Gen. Amnon Ein Dar said Sunday the IDF has carried out thousands of missions in Syria in the last year alone.

Speaking from the Tel Nof Airbase, Ein Dar also noted the IAF was learning from Saturday's events, which began with the interception of an Iranian drone in Israeli territory followed by an IAF attack in Syria and the subsequent shooting down of an Israel F-16 plane.

Ein Dar said the IAF jets struck deep inside Syrian territory. During their mission, a large number of anti-aircraft missiles were directed at them and one hit its target, or near the target, forcing the pilots to bail.

"In this instance, our aircraft was hit; we are of course unsatisfied and we will study the incident and learn for the future," he told Ynet in an interview.

President Rivlin visits the pilots wounded in the crash (Photo: Marc Neiman/GPO)

In his view, the strike against Syrian air defenses was a very significant event: There has not been such a strike since 1982; it was very broad and it will have an effect on their decision-making process. I assume that they will continue to attempt to defend themselves, but they were hit very seriously and the indications of that are only beginning to come to light this morning, despite their attempts to conceal it.

He also noted Israel's own air defenses are not meant for intercepting other air defense systems, We have the capability but this was not the place.

The IDF's working assumption, Ein Dar explained, is that this was not a planned Iranian ambush intended to drag Israel into an operational blunder. Rather, the belief is that the Iranians assumed that they could succeed in sending the drone without the IDF defenses noticing and they were mistaken.

We took down the drone and the rest of the fire was the result of us rapidly tracking down the drone operators from long distance, he said.

According to Ein Dar, The drone was of top quality technology, it was a copy of an American drone that fell into their hands. He added: The Iranians are operating in Syria and we therefore hit them in addition to intercepting the drone; and we will continue to do so wherever we find them.

And, indeed, based on photos of the downed drone, it seems to have been an imitation of an American stealth drone that was felled over Iran in 2011. Aviationist Magazine noted that the drone is based on the American RQ-170 model, which is manufactured by Lockheed Martin and was nicknamed the Beast of Kandahar for its intelligence gathering over the Afghan city.

The Iranian drone took off from Syria and spent 1.5 minutes in Israeli skies after crossing the border in the northern Jordan Valley region.

Although multiple aircraft were scrambled to intercept the drone, an Apache helicopter was chosen for the task as its speed is similar to that of the drones as well as for its optical capabilities.

The squadron was scrambled to defend the nations skies. We detected it as an Iranian drone and when it crossed the border we brought it down over Israeli airspace, said Lt. Col. L., the commander of the 113th Air Squadron (the Wasp), which intercepted the Iranian drone.

The IDF will now study the downed Iranian aircraft to better understand the Iranian arsenal.An IAF probe into the downing of an F-16 fighter jet over the weekend found that Syrian anti-aircraft missiles locked onto another of the eight planes carrying out the strike, but that plane was able to evade the missile.

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Two four-plane formations took part in an airstrike to retaliate the infiltration of an Iranian drone into Israeli airspace on Saturday. Among other things, they attacked the drone's control and command center as well as other Iranian and Syrian targets in Syria.





Debris of the crashed plane (Photo: Reuters)

After bombing their targets, the Israeli fighter jets came under fire by Syrian air defense, with over 20 SA-5 and SA-17 anti-aircraft missiles launched at them.

One missile exploded near one of the planes, leading the pilot and navigator to decide to bail out within seconds, despite not having reported this in the comms system.

As the missile did not directly hit the plane, some assessments indicate that had the pilot and navigator taken a different course of action, the plane might not have gone down. However, no conclusions have been reached on the matter yet.

The initial investigation into the incident found that at least one of the F-16 jets was exposed to fire as it was flying at a high altitude to confirm the missiles Israel had launched hit their targets.

One of the Syrian anti-aircraft missiles fired at the F-16 jets (Photo: EPA)

The formation's leading plane noticed the missiles and was able to dive on time and evade them.

Four Iranian targets

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday Israel dealt "severe blows to the armed forces of Iran and Syria." These blows included 12 targets in Syria, four of them Iranian.

One such Iranian target was the military air base in Mezzeh, which is closed to the Syrian army. Iranian "advisers" from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC) Quds Force are stationed there to supervise the transfer of military equipment from Tehran to Damascus and from there to Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Another target was the T-4 air base in the eastern Homs province, 60km east of Palmyra. This is the largest military air base in Syria, which houses IRGC air force teams. The base suffered extensive damage, putting it out of commission after its control tower and 54 runways suffered direct hits.

The Iranian drone's control and command center being targeted by Israeli jets (Photo: IDF Spokesman's Office)

The remaining two Iranian targets were a weapons depot in Jabal Mana, east of Al-Kiswah, which is being run by Iranian forces, and a military base in Tel Abu Tha'alab, south of Damascus, which is being used by Iranian troops.

Among the Syrian targets bombed was a Syrian army weapons depot west of Al-Kiswah on the outskirts of Damascus; a military base in Al-Dimas, in northeastern Damascus; and a military base in the nearby Madaya.

Also among the Syrian targets was the base of the Syrian army's 16th Division in the Qalamun Mountains, where the Syrian air force's anti-aircraft batteries are stationed; the base of the elite Syrian Republican Guard south of Damascus; the 156th Division's base north of Daraa, which also includes arms depots; the bases of the 79th and 89th Divisions, north of Daraa, which are located near the Israel-Syria-Jordan border; and the 175th Division's base in the Izra area.

So far, six military personnel were reported killed in the strikes, some of them "foreigners." Their identities have yet to be revealed. Arab commentators hinted on Sunday that the number of casualties could be much bigger.After the controversy created by the law banning people from accusing Poland of Holocaust atrocities committed by the Nazis, the country's ruling party has submitted a new bill restricting kosher slaughter and threatening anyone who violates the restrictions with up to four years in prison.

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The new restrictions are included in a 48-page general bill on animal welfare, which the lower house of the Polish parliament is expected to vote on this week.

The bill also seeks to ban slaughter when the animals are in an 'unnatural state,' making kosher slaughter practically impossible (Photo: Reuters)

The restrictions include a ban on exporting kosher meat from Poland, which is expected to affect many of Europe's Jewish communities, as well as meat exports to Israel. Some of Israel's supermarket chains import and sell kosher meat from Poland, increasing the competition in the Israeli meat market. A drop in meat exports from Poland could lead to a hike in meat prices in Israel.

The bill also seeks to ban slaughter when the animals are in an "unnatural state"in other words, when the animal isn't standing on all four feet, making a kosher Jewish slaughter practically impossible. According to European Jewish Association (EJA) Chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin, "Kashrut laws forbid to apply any pressure on the knife to protect the animal from unnecessary pain. Preventing this pressure is impossible when the animal is standing with its head leaning heavily on the knife."

Vowing to fight the new bill, Margolin called on the Israeli government to stipulate an amendment of the slaughter law as part of an agreement between the two governments.

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki (Photo: Reuters)

"These restrictions on kosher slaughter are in complete contradiction to the principle of freedom of religion of the European Union, the rabbi said. The situation in Poland is unacceptable. I call on the government in Poland to avoid enacting this shameful law and to take into account that the Jewish people's faith in the Polish leadership is deteriorating. I can't imagine what the next stage will be after the Holocaust law and imposing restrictions on kosher slaughter in the country.

According to Rabbi Margolin, the new restrictions will make it impossible to perform a kosher slaughter in Poland. "There are people who have invested a lot of money in building kosher factories and slaughter houses, and now this shocking law comes along and puts an end to it. There is an unclear desire here to exclusively harm kosher slaughter and limit kosher meat exports. They are failing to explain the logic of the law. Populism and nationalism are skyrocketing and creating wars with the Jews for political purposes."

The Polish parliament banned kosher slaughter in 2013, but the decision was struck down by the constitutional court. The judges accepted an EJA petition and ruled that the Polish law contradicted the principle of freedom of religion.Israel's ambassador to France has been instructed to snub an Israeli film festival in Paris over the organizers' decision to screen a contentious, critically-acclaimed Israeli film.

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Samuel Maoz's "Foxtrot" is a drama exploring Israel's West Bank occupation and the modern Israeli psyche. It has come under fire from Culture Minister Miri Regev, who has said the film "slanders" the military.

The Foreign Ministry said Sunday that Ambassador Aliza Bin-Noun would not attend the festival's opening night event, when the film would be screened.





Foxtrot (Photo: Giora Bih)

Bin-Noun had attempted to convince organizers to choose a film that "is not controversial and suits a festive opening night" which "Jewish donors" are expected to attend.

But the festival, being held next month, declined the ambassador's request.

The Israeli film festival is just one of 300 cultural events planned for 2018 as part of a joint Israeli-French initiative, with the Israeli government allocating NIS 6 million for the project.

As part of the initiative, which is the Israeli Embassy in Paris's flagship project, French cultural events will be held in Israel and Israeli cultural events will take place in France.

Regev learned of the decision to screen "Foxtrot" at the festival on Wednesday during a meeting with Bin-Noun.

Culture Minister Miri Regev (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky)

"It is not appropriate for the State of Israel to support a festival giving a stage to movies that slander us around the world and contain lies about the IDF's soldiers and Israeli citizens," Regev said.

Regev instructed her ministry's director-general to stress to Foreign Ministry Director-General Yuval Rotem that it was unacceptable for his ministry's Division for Cultural and Scientific Affairs to allocate funds to the festival.

She also said she would update Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also serves as the foreign ministry, asking him to instruct the Foreign Ministry to withdraw all support from the festival.

Following Regev's intervention, the Foreign Ministry instructed Ambassador Bin-Noun not to attend the festival's opening ceremony, even though the embassy in Paris had already provided the festival with financial support.

"The Israeli Embassy in France has been proud to support the Israeli film festival in Paris since the day of its establishment. Over the past 18 years, many films were screened at the festival, representing the variety in Israeli filmmaking, the freedom of expression, and the pluralism of Israeli society," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The ministry went on to say that while "the embassy normally does not interfere with the festival organizers' artistic considerations and respects Israeli films and filmmakers invited to take part," the organizers' refusal to select a different film led to the decision to snub the opening night.

Foxtrot creators and cast accept Ophir Award (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

"Foxtrot" is a parable about fate and peoples' powerlessness to direct their destinies.

The film opens with an affluent Tel Aviv couple being informed their soldier son has died in the line of duty. The film later explores the way trauma scars individuals and societies, and ripples across generations.

"Foxtrot" has won the Grand Jury Prize award at the Venice Film Festival in 2017 and the Ophir Award for best film.

Regev has not watched the film. "I find it outrageous that Israeli auteurs are contributing to inciting Israel's younger generation against the world's most moral army," she said, "slinging lies under the guise of artistic expression."Arab states in the Middle East and North Africa are pushing forward with the construction of nuclear power plants, according to a new report released by the Institute for Policy and Strategy (IPS) at the Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya led by Major-General (res.) Amos Gilad.

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will be the first state to operate a nuclear reactor (made in South Korea). Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Sudan, Tunisia and Algeria are expected to follow in its footsteps, having declared their intention to build nuclear reactors. Each of these countries is in the process of implementing the plan.

Iranian nuclear reactor in Bushehr (Photo: EPA)

While these countries say they need the nuclear power plants to meet the growing demand for energy for economic purposes, the IPS report reveals this isn't the only reason for their efforts.

The report's author, Dr. Shaul Shay, director of research at the IPS and a former deputy head of the National Security Council (NSC), says the purchase of nuclear technology is also the Sunni Arab world's way of dealing with the Iranian nuclear program. This trend is encouraged by Russia, which is interested in providing the knowledge and technology as a way of reinforcing its position in the region.

Dr. Shay believes the information collected as part of the research supports Israel's claim that the fear of a nuclear Iran is prompting Middle Eastern countries to acquire knowledge and nuclear technology. This trend is particularly evident among Iran's rivalsEgypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan and the Persian Gulf countries.

A heavy water nuclear facility near Arak, Iran. 'A Sunni Arab response to the Iranian nuclear program' (Photo: AP)

The world powers' nuclear agreement with Iran , which relaxes the sanctions imposed on the Islamic Republic in exchange for a commitment to avoid developing a nuclear weapon in the coming decade, gives its neighbors time to develop a nuclear infrastructure of their own before the agreement expires.

While Dr. Shay stresses there is a major difference between the ability to develop a nuclear program and obtaining knowledge, nuclear technology and a nuclear reactor for energy purposes, he says the existence of knowledge and a nuclear infrastructure could help speed up the processes aimed at turning the civil technology into a military technology.

Iranian nuclear reactor in Bushehr (Photo: Reuters)

The first country in the Arab world planning to inaugurate a nuclear reactor is UAE, with South Korea's help. Its neighbor, Saudi Arabia, will be the second Arab country in the Persian Gulf with nuclear energy. In 2011, Saudi Arabia hired a civilian company to locate the optimal spot for the future reactors. The country has also signed cooperation agreements with the United States, France, Russia and other countries in the field of nuclear energy.

Saudi Arabia has officially announced that if Iran obtains a nuclear weapon, it will follow in its footsteps. The Saudis have close strategic ties with Pakistan, which already has a nuclear weapon. Saudi Arabia provided Pakistan with financial aid when the country was dealing with international sanctions, Dr. Shay notes, helping it move forward with the development of its nuclear program.

Egypt to build 4 reactors

The arms race is taking place among Israel's neighbors too. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met several weeks ago with Russian President Vladimir Putin to sign a cooperation agreement for the establishment of a nuclear facility at Dabaa, near Alexandria.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi (Photo: AP)

The agreement, which was signed with Russia's state atomic energy corporation Rosatom, states that Egypt will use the agency's services to build and operate the facility's four reactors in the next 60 years. This agreement joins additional cooperation agreements in the nuclear area which Russia has signed with Sudan, Algeria and Tunisia.

Israel's eastern neighbor, Jordan, is also working to obtain nuclear technology with South Korea's help.

Russia's growing involvement in the Arab world's nuclear arms race, Dr. Shay believes, has to do with Putin's efforts to restore Russia's position as a world power in the Middle East. Putin sends Russian advisors and exports to every country that has signed such an agreement with him, thereby reinforcing his ties with the Arab world.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (Photo: EPA)

Putin, apparently, isn't hiding his intentions. In April 2016, Russia's nuclear energy agency announced that it was opening an office in Dubai to supervise the nuclear reactors being built with the agency's help across the Middle East.

How is this arms race expected to affect Israel? "While at this stage the countries are developing their nuclear programs for civilian purposes," Dr. Shay explains, "they are largely doing it in response to the Iranian nuclear challenge. This means that in the future, if they wish to develop a nuclear weapon, these infrastructures will speed up the process. Security-wise, the affect on Israel will have to do with the nature of its relations with these countries."

The report was prepared ahead of a seminar on Russia's return to the Middle East, which will be held by the IPS at the IDC Herzliya next week.Two soldiers who accidentally entered the West Bank city of Jenin on Monday were attacked by young Palestinians who encircled the military vehicle.

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The two soldiers, a man and a woman, were wounded by stones. One of the soldiers' weapon was stolen, the IDF reported.

Palestinians encircle the military vehicle

Palestinian police officers helped rescue them from the mob.

Documentation of the incident released by the Palestinians

X

The female soldier sustained light to moderate wounds in her face and legs from the windshield glass. Images released by the Palestinians show her bleeding from her face. She was evacuated to a hospital in Afula.

The female soldier with blood on her face in images released by the Palestinians

Documentation released by the Palestinians shows the mob attacking the soldiers with stones and chairs and the female soldier screaming with blood on her face. A Palestinian policeman is seen trying to protect the soldiers and even shooting in the air to drive the mob away.

Soldiers attacked by Palestinians in Jenin

X

Security sources say the two soldiers were transferred to the Jalameh crossing by the security apparatuses in coordination with the Civil Administration.

The smashed windowpane

An initial IDF investigation into the attack found they were using the Waze app on their way from the settlement of Shavei Shomron to Afula.

The Jalameh crossing

Earlier this month, an Israeli citizen drove into the Palestinian town of Abu Dis near Ma'ale Adumim and was attacked by Palestinians, who torched his car and lightly wounded him.

The 59-year-old Israeli man from Tel Aviv went to Wadi Qelt to ride horses and got lost on his way back, ending up in Abu Dis near the Al-Quds University campus, where several Palestinians noticed him and started hurling stones at him.

Palestinian security forces who arrived at the scene protected him and contacted the Jerusalem area's District Coordination and Liaison Office in order to hand him over to the IDF and Civil Administration.

Yoav Zitun, Elior Levy, Ahiya Raved, Hassan Shaalan and Elisha Ben Kimon contributed to this report.Ali Akbar Velayati, a senior advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, said Monday that "Iranian presence in Syria will continue."

"The downing of the Israeli F-16 planes is an important milestone in the conflict with Israel," he continued. "Israel must know that every attack will get the same response, it is Syria's right. The axis of resistance will protect its sovereignty, and we will not remain silent to Israeli aggression."Celebrated author David Grossman has been awarded Israel's highest literary accolade, the Israel Prize for Literature, for 2018, the Education Ministry announced Monday.

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"Since the beginning of the 1980s, David Grossman has maintained his place in the center of Israeli culture, and he is one of the deepest, most moving and most influential voices in our literature," the prize committee wrote, explaining its decision.

The prize committee was headed by Prof. Avner Holtzman, and also included Prof. Aminadav Dykman, Prof. Yehuda Friedlander and writer Judith Katzir.

Author David Grossman (Photo: GETTY IMAGES)

"With novels, stories, essays, his documentary writing, and his diverse creations for children, (Grossman) accumulated a series of masterpieces, which excel in the power of rich imagination, deep wisdom, human sensitivity, a profound moral stance and unique, reverberating language," the committee continued.

The committee also noted that "The translations of his books to dozens of languages have made him one of the most well-known, valued and beloved Israeli authors around the world."

The 64-year-old Grossman is one of Israel's most internationally recognized and acclaimed authors, as well as a prominent peace activist who campaigns against Israeli policies toward Palestinians. He has expressed support for Israeli conscientious objectors, creation of a Palestinian state and the need to avoid war with Iran over its nuclear program.

He boycotted the 2015 Israel Prize ceremony over the Prime Minister's Office's disqualification of judges deemed not patriotic enough.

Grossman's books have been translated into 35 languages and adapted into films. His novel "A Horse Walks Into a Bar," about a fictional stand-up comedian and the ghosts of his past, won the 2017 Man Booker International Prize, making him the first Israeli to receive the honor.

"I'm very happy," Grossman told Ynet. "When Minister Bennett called, I was surprised. He said beautiful and moving things, and despite our disagreements, he was glad I won and said nice things about my books."

Explaining his decision to withdraw his candidacy in 2015, Grossman said, "Prime Minister Netanyahu blatantly interfered in the appointment of the judges for the (prize) committee, and that was unbelievable, so I removed my candidacy. I still have strong disagreements with Netanyahu today, but the selection was done in a standard and fair manner."

He went on to say that he doesn't "hide what I think about the government's policies. In the world, I represent my own views. Representing the entire state is too much for me. My opinions are certainly complex, and when I speak abroad, I insist people are aware of our situation. I'm glad the stories being written in Zion reach many places around the world."

Bennett: Time has come to heal the rifts

The announcement came at a time of strained relations between leading figures in Israel's artistic community and the government's hawkish culture minister, Miri Regev.

Last month, Regev publicly expressed relief that "Foxtrot," an Israeli movie she saw as maligning the military did not win a foreign-language Oscar nomination and this month she pushed for Israel's Ambassador to France to snub an Israeli film festival in Paris because its organizers decided to screen "Foxtrot" at the opening ceremony.

Education Minister Naftali Bennett, also a right-wing politician, said Grossman "is one of the most moving, deep and influential voices in Israeli literature."

Education Minister Naftali Bennett (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky)

Grossman will receive the Israel Prize on Independence Day in April, Bennett said, describing the decision as a move towards reconciliation in a country with deep divides over matters of war and peace.

"I disagree with the author, David Grossman, politically," Bennett said in public remarks to members of his Bayit Yehudi party.

"But he's not an author of the left wing and I am not education minister of the right wing. I am education minister for all the State of Israel ... the time has come to heal the rifts," Bennett said.BEIRUT - The situation in Syria has worsened since the United Nations called for a ceasefire on Feb. 6 amid "some of the worst fighting of the entire conflict", UN resident and humanitarian coordinator Ali al-Za'tari said on Monday.

There are reports of "hundreds of civilian deaths and injuries, massive displacement and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities," Za'tari said in an emailed statement.A Turkish law lecturer and an Israeli citizen have been arrested in Israel on suspicion of aiding Hamas terrorists in Turkey, it was cleared for publication on Monday.

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Cemil Tekeli, a Turkish national, was arrested in early January. Dara'am Jabarin, an Israeli citizen and resident of Umm al-Fahm, was arrested about three weeks later.

The two were recruited in Turkey by senior Hamas terrorist Zaher Jabarin, who was released in the 2011 Shalit deal . Jabarin is responsible for Hamas' budget and promotes ramified terrorist operations in the West Bank on instruction from Saleh al-Arouri, who serves as deputy Hamas leader and head of its operations in the West Bank.

Cemil Tekeli

Tekeli's interrogation revealed that Turkey contributes to the military strengthening of Hamas via, inter alia, the SADAT company, which was established at the behest of Adnan Basha, an adviser with close ties to Turkish administration officials.

The company was founded to assistwith funds and weaponsthe creation of the 'Palestine Army,' the goal of which is to fight Israel.

One of its employees even helped senior Hamas officials attend a 2015 weapons show in Turkey, during which they expressed interest in UAVs.

During Tekeli's interrogation, it became clear Hamas is in direct contact with Turkish authorities via terrorist Jihad Ya'amur, who was involved in the abduction of IDF soldier Nachson Waxman and was released in the Shalit deal.

Deputy Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri, left, meeting with an Iranian official in Beirut

The investigation found that in 2012, Tekeli was asked to help personally and economically establish Hamas terrorists in Turkey. Most of the terrorists in question were released in the Shalit deal and were involved in attacks that claimed Israeli lives.

Tekeli assisted them in obtaining visas that allowed them to stay in Turkey, in purchasing and renting commercial and residential properties, in purchasing luxury vehicles and in registering companies in their names, thus helping their establish their businesses.

The investigation also revealed wide-ranging Hamas activity in money laundering in Turkey on instruction from Zaher Jabarin, while concealing from the authorities the sources of the funds. Hamas members owned the IMES company, which served as a cover for the laundering of millions of US dollars that were then transferred to the Gaza Strip and various countries.

According to the Shin Bet, IMES's importance to Hamas became even more apparent in the interrogation of the second suspect, Dara'am Jabarin.

Dara'am was recruited to Hamas by Zaher Jabarin while visiting Turkey, with the initial contact with Dara'am being done under the cover of IMES commercial activity.

Dara'am Jabarin

Dara'am visited Turkey frequently over the next 18 months and was asked by his handlers to transfer Hamas funds from Turkey to the West Bank.

His handlers in Turkey gave him hundreds of thousands of euros for Hamas's military infrastructure. He hid the funds in various secret locations in the West Bank. A search of his home uncovered 91,000 euros, which were due to be transferred to the West Bank.

The investigation revealed that Dara'am's activities were carried out at the behest of Zaher Jabarin and his chief aide Salameh Mar'i, whom Tekeli had helped establish in Turkey. Mar'i was also released in the Shalit deal and had been involved in a March 1993 terrorist attack near Burkin in which an IDF soldier was murdered.

Salameh Mar'i

As part of the investigation, additional suspectsresidents of Umm al-Fahm who had assisted Dara'amwere also detained.

Cemil Tekeli was deported from Israel upon the conclusion of his interrogation. Dara'am Jabarin is due to go on trial in the coming days.

"The findings of the investigation underscore the fact that Hamas's ramified economic and military activity in Turkey takes place unhindered as Turkish officials turn a blind eye andon occasionencourage it, and with the assistance of Turkish nationals, some of whom are close to the government," the Shin Bet said in a statement.

"This activity relies, inter alia, on business platforms that serve Hamas in laundering funds that are transferred to Judea and Samaria and used in recruiting Israelis to its ranks."President Reuven Rivlin on Monday addressed his chilly relations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying: "Netanyahu is the prime minister and I'm the president. He does his job and I do my job. I guess he's not my friend."

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One of the prime minister's associates said in response: "Out of respect for the presidency, and in a bid to leave the state's symbols out of the political game, we shall not be dragged into this kind of discourse."

Rivlin, who participated in the B'Sheva weekly's Jerusalem Conference, was asked whether he believed the prime minister should resign in case of an indictment

Rivlin at the B'Sheva weekly's Jerusalem Conference (Photo: Hillel Meir/TPS)

"I only know I have heard a lot of things. I have an opinion of my own, and I will say it in three and a half years. I just want to say that I have heard a lot of people in other affairs, which happened I dont remember when, and they said it much better and made an impact," Rivlin said, implicitly referring to Netanyahu's comments against former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert when the latter was indicted.

Asked why he wasn't meeting with Netanyahu, Rivlin replied: "In any event, before I travel anywhere in the world, to Russia or to any other country, I always consult him."

The president went on to address Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh's interview to investigative television program "Uvda" ahead of the publication of the police's recommendations in the investigations against Netanyahu.

"The rule of law is the air every society breathes," Rivlin said. "When there were reports that my public activity was flawed, it was the police's duty to investigate and I had no complaints about it. I believe that about 20 minutes later, the investigators realized there was nothing to it. I was angry and criticized the State Attorney's Office for postponing the decision on the case for three and a half years."

Rivlin said he believed Alsheikh's appointment as police chief was appropriate, and added with a smile that he knew Netanyahu had been responsible for the appointment and that "the prime minister is always Netanyahu."

Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh. 'An appropriate appointment' (Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg)

As for the Right's disappointment with him and claims that he "changed side," Rivlin said: "All my life, I have been on the right side. I have always stuck to my principles, which were often subject to a dispute even within the right-wing camp. I believe that as president, after being elected, I must clarify that there is no contradiction between Israel being a Jewish state and a democratic state.

"I havent changed my opinions and I make sure to repeat it again and again," Rivlin added. "We are becoming people who only believe in their own faith and aren't even aware of the other side's fate.

"People may think I was elected to deliver what they want, but I was elected by the Knesset, which has Jews and Arabs, rightists and leftists, and I must ensure that we all talk and engage in a dialogue. We must know that there are people with different opinions, and it has always been clear to me that a person who doesnt share my opinion isn't necessarily against me."Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday he was having talks with the Americans about applying Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank.

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Netanyahu told Likud members that he is guided by two principles on the matter: "Coordinating as much as possible with the Americans, with whom the relationship is a strategic asset to the State of Israel and to the settlement enterprise," and the legislation "must be a government initiative and not a private one, because this is a historic move."

Prime Minister Netanyahu (Photo: Emil Salman)

Coalition heads decided on Sunday to postpone an upcoming vote at the Ministerial Committee for Legislation on an annexation bill sponsored by Likud MK Yoav Kisch, with the official reason being the security events of the past weekend in northern Israel.

Kisch's proposal seeks to apply Israeli law, judicial system and sovereignty in all West Bank settlements. It is identical to a resolution unanimously adopted by the Likud Central Committee a month ago.

Members of the coalition have proposed quite a few annexation bills during the 20th Knesset's term: Kisch and Bayit Yehudi MK Bezalel Smotrich submitted a proposal to annex the settlement of Ma'ale Adumim; MK Moti Yogev (Bayit Yehudi) and MK Miki Zohar (Likud) sought to annex Gush Etzion, the city of Ariel and the Jordan Valley; Minister Yisrael Katz (Likud) tried to promote a bill proposal to annex Givat Ze'ev; MK Shuli Mualem-Rafaeli (Bayut Yehudi) proposed to repeal the Disengagement Law in the northern Samaria region.

All of these proposals were sidelined by the coalition, mostly to avoid censure from the international community.Police last week arrested a Palestinian police officer (36) from Bethlehem accuse of throwing stones at soldiers in the area of Rachels Tomb.

He is accused of participating in a riot and attacking police while being armed with a weapon. He was brought before a military court and is expected to be indicted shortly.JERUSALEM - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday he has been discussing with the United States possible Israeli annexation of Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank.

"On the subject of applying sovereignty, I can say that I have been talking to the Americans about it for some time," Netanyahu was quoted by a spokesman of his right-wing Likud party as telling a meeting of its legislators.BERLIN -- Police in the eastern German city of Dresden say six neo-Nazis on their way home from a rally were attacked by a group of masked assailants believed to be leftist extremists.

The dpa news agency reported Monday two of the neo-Nazis were beaten so badly they needed hospital treatment.

The six neo-Nazis, aged between 27 and 35, were attacked by about 15 people on their way back to their cars after a rally of about 500 far-right extremists Saturday.

The demonstration was being held in advance of the anniversary of the Allied firebombing of Dresden on Feb. 13-14, 1945. Some 25,000 people died in the bombing, according to a 2008 official study. German neo-Nazis maintain the death toll was far higher.

Official commemorations promoting peace and reconciliation are scheduled Tuesday.An Israeli delegation visited Malaysia for the first time. Malaysia is a muslim country that does not have diplomatic ties with Israel. The delegation, headed by diplomat David Rut, visited as part of a HABITAT UN conference and met with Malaysian officials.Richwood, TX (77531)

Today

Tropical storm conditions likely. Rain showers this morning, then remaining overcast and windy during the afternoon hours. High 83F. WSW winds at 40 to 60 mph, decreasing to 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 71F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.Security forces have arrested a mentally ill Lebanese man who crossed the northern border into Israel. During questioning he said that he was sent by two Hezbollah operatives, brothers Mehdi and Ali Shahrur from the town of Habush, who threatened him with forced hospitalization if he did not comply and infiltrate Israel in order to test the border permeability.Hobart was ranked the fastest selling capital city housing market for properties sold via private treaty, according to CoreLogics latest Property Pulse report.

Using its days on market metric (which indicates how quickly properties being offered for sale by private treaty are likely to sell), CoreLogic found that at the end of 2017, properties across Australia took 45 days to sell. Across the combined capitals, the number was 40 days.

Both the capital city and national measure has been reasonably steady over recent months, however, the days on the market figure for each region was slightly lower a year earlier. In December 2016 it typically took 44 days to sell a property across the nation and 37 days across the combined capital cities, CoreLogic said.

The changes were more pronounced across the individual capitals:



Sydney, NSW

The typical home offered by private treaty took 42 days to sell in December 2017, up from 34 days in December 2016. The 42 days it took to sell in December was the longest time on market since May 2016, and is up from the recent low of 29 days in February 2017.

Overall, the city has experienced a prolonged downturn, hitting five straight months of declining home prices in February.



Melbourne, VIC



Homes typically take 33 days to sell, which is up from 29 days towards the end of 2016. The 29 days at the end of 2016 was also a recent low in days on market for Melbourne.



Brisbane, QLD



It took 53 days to sell a typical home in Brisbane in December 2017, an increase from 47 days in December 2016. The days on market figure has been trending higher since reaching a recent low of 43 days in March 2017, CoreLogic said.



Adelaide, SA



Properties took 41 days to sell in December 2017, down from 43 days in December 2016.



Perth, WA



The city has experienced a consistent decline in the days on market figure over the past year, dropping from 58 days to 53 days. After peaking at 75 days in August 2017, theres been a sharp fall over recent months.



There have been other signs of recovery in the Perth property market, with the December quarter showing improvements in median prices, sales activity, listing levels, and average selling days, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia (REIWA).



Hobart, TAS



Properties took 33 days to sell in Decembera day less than a year ago. Homes have been selling quickly in Hobart over the past two years due to accelerating value growth.



Propertyology has forecasted price growth in the Tasmanian capital to push past 20% this year, well above the best years produced by Sydney and Melbourne during the boom years.



Darwin, NT



The days on market figure for Darwin in December 2017 was 75 days. This is substantially lower than the 88 days recorded in December 2016, and well down on the recent peak of 119 days in March 2017.



Canberra, ACT



The typical home took 42 days to sell via private treaty in December 2017, slightly more than it did a year ago at 39 days.





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Population Growth Key Driver Of Housing Demand

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- Twitter users have revealed that Franklina Maame Yaa Teboah Nkansah's body has been brought to Accra

- They revealed that her father went to Brong Ahafo to bring back her remains

- Details for the funeral are yet to be decided on

The mortal remains of Franklina Maame Yaa Teboa Nkansah, otherwise known as Franky Kuri, arrived in the capital Accra on Saturday, February 10th, after she died alongside dancehall artist, Ebony Reigns, in a brutal accident in Bechem, Brong Ahafo Region.

According to a Twitter user who goes by the handle Cedric Harding, has revealed that Franky Kuri's - the girl who died in the accident that killed Ebony Reigns - body has finally arrived in Accra three days after her fatal accident.

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale shades "fake" pastors for predicting his death

Cedric also shared a tweet showing the vehicle Franky and Ebony were in when they had their fatal collision, and expressed sadness at the fact that the accident was so serious that the fire service had to cut off the roof before they could get to Franky and Ebony's remains.

In a series of tweets, Cedric Harding basically documented how loved ones went to the Brong Ahafo Region to retrieve Franky's remains and convey them all the way back to Accra.

Another Twitter user who uses the handle @jay_silas revealed that friends and sympathizers wanted to setup a GoFundMe account but the family declined. Although he says a separate account for those who wanted to contribute to Franky's funeral or anything like that will be set up.

He revealed that the family, led by the grandmother thanked those who helped get Franky's remains back to Accra. He also revealed that dates for the funeral are yet to be decided on, although he stated that those details would be released by the end of the week.

Checkout some of Cedric Harding's tweets below:

You will rest easy...

Almost home...

Franky is home...

READ ALSO: GIfti Osei cries and calls out "hypocrites" over Ebony's death

Do you have any story to share with YEN? Get featured! We are available on Facebook

Source: Yen.com.ghThe best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. Print edition not available for Day Pass option.Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA) of India and BRS Ventures of UAE, a major holding company, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish IIMAs first Extension Center in Dubai.



The UAE Extension Center will begin with Executive Education Programs that are relevant to the region and will include both open learning and customized training programs. With the synergy, this partnership is expected to benefit both organizations, besides benefiting the UAE regional business and governance.



The MoU was signed on the occasion of the World Government Summit 2018, of which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the Guest of Honour. The World Government Summit is an annual event held in Dubai that brings together leaders in government for a global dialogue about governmental process and policies with a focus on the issues of futurism, technology and innovation.



IIMA will provide the academic and training expertise while BRS Ventures will facilitate the required support including infrastructure, industry links and logistics. IIMAs parent campus in Ahmedabad that was established through active partnership with Harvard Business School almost six decades back, started with Executive Education Programs using Case Study Method and cases relevant to business.



These Executive Education programs have consistently grown and remain much in demand across industries and corporates. In a phased manner, depending on response and other factors, IIMABRS Ventures will consider rolling out other programs in UAE of longer duration. These programs will be globally relevant to ensure that the cohort being trained is not restricted to any region and the learning environment is in an international cultural setting.



Prof Errol DSouza, Director of IIMA said: For an institute with global footprint of alumni, it is important to have physical presence beyond the national borders. UAE has been the gateway and hub for Mena regions business connect with the world. We are very happy to partner with BRS Ventures, given their distinguished service to UAE as well as deep understanding of the region and its priorities. This will help IIMA in implementing the planned activities and programs successfully.



Dr BR Shetty, founder and chairman of BRS Ventures said: Education has always been close to my heart. It is my honour to bring IIMA, the jewel of India, to UAE. The IIMA Extension Center will immediately benefit UAE and Mena regions economies, public policies, executive skills and industry overall.



Later when longer duration programs are launched, the graduating students will be entitled for preferred employment at our own diversified businesses, while they will always remain of great interest to other government and non-government businesses in UAE and internationally.  TradeArabia News ServiceThe UAE government has launched the Space Settlement Challenge; a dedicated seed grant fund of Dh2 million ($544,424) that supports ambitious projects from all areas of research pursuing ideas and concepts to unlock the future of human space habitation.



The Space Settlement Challenge is the first project of the newly established Mohammed Bin Rashed Centre for Accelerated Research, an initiative of the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF).



It aims to attract brilliant minds from all around the world regardless of discipline, background, or origin and comes as part of the UAE's commitment to accelerating global space exploration activities, said the statement from DFF.



The funds will be used to bankroll proposals that explore novel ideas and develop new business models for living and working in space.



The Challenge, which opened today, will solicit project proposals from diverse disciplines through a next-generation platform called "Guaana", whose innovative model dramatically reduces the time and effort required to fund seed ideas.



DFF's chief executive Khalfan Belhoul said: "The UAE has set itself on an ambitious path to lead the global space race, establishing the first city on Mars as per the 2117 Mars Project."



"Space research is the logical next step in humanity's search for knowledge and survival, and an advanced means to preserve human cultures, societies and economies. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Settlement Challenge we are launching today is designed to provide support for creative minds, unconventional ideas, innovative designs and research," he added.



The space challenge is composed of three categories, the first of which revolves around Space Settlement - aims to develop plans for locations that could support a thriving sustainable settlement in space accommodating at least 100 people. It explores matters like construction automation, power, food, water, heating and cooling, all the while taking the human factor into consideration.



The second category - Terraforming & Space Ecology - looks into creating livable long-term environments, formulating strategies for the responsible terraforming of off-planet bodies near the Moon, Mars, asteroids and other orbital habitats.



The third category- Economics, Business Model & Governance - seeks to develop business plans for optimal economics and resource utilization, writing scenarios that identify private-sector partners interested in conducting commercial activities in space.



The challenge also seeks to ensure good governance by proposing national policies that promote society's awareness of peaceful settlement in space.-TradeArabia News Service

High-level participants discussed the impact of climate change on communities around the world yesterday at a conference titled Climate Change Forum  Climate Action Now in Dubai, UAE.



Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, welcomed the participants at the event which was organised by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment as part of the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai.



The forum includes four sessions on the key themes of peace and prosperity, gender and youth, and preparing for climate-linked disasters.



Dr Al Zeyoudi kicked off the event with a session titled Climate Change and its Impact on Human Prosperity, which provided a perspective on how climate change is merging with humanitarian crises and threatening global peace and prosperity.



He said: Imagine that you live in a world where you are not talking about category 2 and 3 hurricanes, but category 5. Then imagine that you can do something to stop all of this.



Dr Al Zeyoudi added: The facts are very clear. Not opinions, not politics, but scientific facts. Humans  you and me  are causing climate change. Change that is making droughts more common, and putting massive pressure on our food systems and peoples livelihoods, and causing mass displacement and migration.



To offset and prepare for these environmental changes, Dr Al Zeyoudi referenced several pioneering projects in the UAE and abroad that provide economic empowerment as well as climate-resilient solutions to communities, such as the UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund, a new $50 million grant fund for resilient renewables in the Caribbean Islands with a focus on hurricane recovery.



Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the World Government Summit 2018 is running from February 11 to 13, at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai.



The landmark event convenes more than 4,000 participants from 140 countries, including heads of state and governments, as well as top-tier representatives of 16 international organizations.



Hosting more than 130 speakers across 120 interactive sessions, WGS 2018 features six distinct forums that examine the challenges of vital sectors for the future with a view to finding the best resolutions for the greater global good. Furthermore, over 20 specialised global reports spanning key sectors and topics of the summit are being launched during the event, it stated.  TradeArabia News ServiceDubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in co-operation with Next Future Transportation, yesterday (February 11) launched the first tests of the world's first autonomous pods on the sidelines of the World Government Summit.



The autonomous pods are designed to travel short and medium distances in dedicated lanes. They can be coupled in 15 to 20 seconds or detached, depending on the destination of riders, in 5 seconds, said a statement from RTA.



The step is part of RTAs efforts under Dubai Future Accelerators initiatives. The Authority has signed an agreement with the American Next Future to develop autonomous units named (NX1) as part of the Phase I of the initiative.



The autonomous pods are fitted with cameras and electromechanical technologies to carry out the coupling and detaching processes, and this feature can be activated in-motion.



Each pod, measuring 2.87m long, 2.24m wide and 2.82m tall, weighs around 1,500 kg and has a capacity to accommodate ten riders (6 seated, four standing), said the RTA in its statement.



The autonomous pod is fitted with a battery that supports 3 hours of operation; which is chargeable in 6 hours. Its average speed is 20 k/h, it added.



The prototypes of these units are manufactured in Italy and shipped to Dubai to put them on trials. These pods run on a virtual pre-configured and programmed lane and are overseen by the operational system.



Mattar Al Tayer, the director-general and chairman of the board of executive directors of the RTA, said: "The pilot test of driverless units is directed by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in the context of transforming Dubai into the smartest city worldwide."



"It is also part of RTA endeavors to provide autonomous transport through carrying out technological tests on autonomous transport means under Dubais climatic conditions," noted Al Tayer.



"It echoes the Dubai Autonomous Transport Strategy aimed at converting 25 per cent of mobility journeys in Dubai to autonomous transportation by 2030. The move also contributes to achieving the integration of public transit means and people happiness through providing smooth, quick and innovative transit means," he stated.



On the new pod tests, Al Tayer said: "Its success will bring about a breakthrough in transportation systems that offer innovative mobility solutions and ease snarls in the city. The RTA is keen on ensuring the principle of safety in all services delivered to clients."



"These autonomous pods have three protection systems in order to ensure full control and avoid crashing into anybody. The main system comprises 3D cameras, and the second one is a standby system based on ordinary cameras, and the last is operated manually by the operator," he added.-TradeArabia News ServiceThe GCCs family businesses have shown confidence in their prospects for 2018, as they begin to adapt to the new norm of lower oil prices and the impact of geopolitical developments, said KPMG in a new report.



The report titled GCC Family Business Survey 2017 from the audit, advisory and tax services provider analyses the thoughts of over 40 senior members of family businesses from the six GCC countries, on trends and issues affecting the sector.



Harish Gopinath, head of Family Business for KPMG in the Middle East and South Asia said: In the GCC, perhaps more than anywhere else world-wide, family businesses form the backbone of the economy. Fifty-seven per cent of those surveyed suggesting that they are confident about their business prospects in the coming 12 months and we can take this sentiment as a positive indicator for the regions economic conditions.



The survey identified that for many family business, growth is still high on the agenda, with 81 per cent focusing on improving profitability and 55 per cent on increasing revenue. As family businesses expand through the generations, it is essential that enough profit is generated to distribute to an increasing number of members. Nearly half of respondents noted that increased competition (a potential blocker to growth), was a major concern, so it is therefore not surprising that 38 per cent are planning to diversify into new products and services and 23 per cent were looking to move into new markets.



Finding the right balance between the interests of the family and that of the business, is clearly a key concern for family businesses  and was reported as important or very important by 77 per cent of respondents. Family businesses are increasingly establishing rules, procedures and processes to manage expectations of family members and avoid conflict.



On this, Gopinath continued: Good governance is a success factor for growing family businesses, and each organization requires a unique, fit-for-purpose governance structure that will carry the business into future generations, whilst managing the risks associated with succession and sustainable growth effectively. Family businesses appear to be acknowledging this by ensuring that they have the right mechanisms in place, including a formal board of directors (85 per cent) and formal advisory boards (22 per cent). Interestingly though, only 20 per cent of respondents indicated that they have adopted a family council.



Whilst the board of directors role is to manage the business, the family council resolves and regulates family issues by creating a common set of rules that define the conditions for entering into family ownership, governing bodies or operational positions in the company. Family councils are also responsible for outlining the training and development conditions, and ensuring that there are the required skills, motivations and experiences necessary for business success. They therefore play a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability of the organization.



Succession is also at the top-of-mind for most family businesses with 88 per cent of respondents noting that training and preparing a successor is crucial for the business survival and success.



With 38 per cent of respondents expecting to pass management over in the coming 12 months and 21 per cent expecting to transfer ownership, Gopinath explained that when there are family members willing to take over the reins, the challenge lies in ensuring a smooth transition for all involved. It is paramount that planning and preparing for a change in management or ownership happens early and in a transparent way to ensure that all affected parties not only understand the implications, but support the change.



Overall, many family businesses within the GCC have enjoyed a strong year and many are taking positive steps to ensure growth and the familys legacy. Good governance and succession planning will always be critical to family business success but it is also important that they continue to keep up to date with competition and advances in technology.



On this, Gopinath stated: technology is changing the way that business is done and operating models and service offerings must be reviewed and updated to ensure that they meet customer and staff needs. Similarly, upcoming changes to regulations and the implementation of VAT across the region could require new or updated systems  and it is better for business to act on this sooner rather than later.  TradeArabia News ServiceEmirates, the worlds best airline according to TripAdvisor 2017, today announced its plan to launch a new, five times a week, service from Dubai to Santiago International Airport (SCL), via the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo, starting on July 5.



The new service will see Emirates fly an additional five times a week to Sao Paulo, complementing the airlines existing daily A380 flight between Dubai and Sao Paulo. In total, Emirates will now fly 12 times a week to Sao Paulo. Emirates' Santiago flight will be a linked service with Sao Paulo, meaning that customers in South America can now travel between the two cities in unprecedented style and comfort. Citizens from both Brazil and Chile only need ID cards to travel to either country.



The new route will be operated with a two-class configured Boeing 777-200LR which offers 38 Business Class seats in a 2-2-2 configuration and 264 seats in Economy Class. The new 777 flight will also offer up to 14 tonnes of capacity for cargo, opening up access to more global markets for Chilean exports such as fish, seafood, cherries, flowers and general perishable goods.



Sir Tim Clark, president Emirates Airline, said: The start of our operations to Chile underlines our commitment to South America with our fourth destination on the continent and another five flights to Sao Paulo. We are pleased to add a destination that has been in strong demand from our customers and look forward to working with stakeholders in Chile to provide our unique product and award-winning service to passengers there.



Flight EK263 will depart Dubai on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturday and Sundays at 09:05hrs local time, arriving in Sao Paulo at 17:00, before departing again at 18:30 and arriving into Santiago at 21:40 on the same day. The return flight EK264 will depart Santiago on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturday and Sundays at 01:10 local time, arriving in Sao Paulo at 05:55. EK264 will depart once again from Sao Paulo at 07:45 bound for Dubai where it will arrive at 05:15 the next day.



Timings of the new service are scheduled to allow for seamless connections to many Asian and Middle East routes, via a convenient stopover in Dubai. Passengers travelling from Sao Paulo will now benefit from a morning departure in Sao Paulo and morning arrival in Dubai, making connecting to new destinations Southeast Asia, China and Middle East more convenient.



Passengers flying with Emirates can book a Dubai Stopover package which will allow them to stay in Dubai for a few days on their way to one of over 155 destinations.  TradeArabia News Service